Tiny Cars, Huge Impact: What Japan’s Kei Vehicles Teach Us About UX
Introduction: Japan’s Unique Mobility Needs Hidden in Plain Sight Global automotive trends are racing ahead—electrification, autonomous driving, connected cars. Japan is keeping up technically, but if you glance at the country’s best-selling vehicles, something seems… off. Among all this cutting-edge progress, why are Japan’s streets dominated by boxy, ultra-compact vehicles called “kei cars”? In 2024, […]
UX Trap of Japanese Toilets: Why Icons aren’t Always Universal
Japan has a long history of taking ideas from other cultures and refining them into something uniquely Japanese. Toilets are no exception. They’ve been transformed into high-tech marvels, complete with heated seats, bidets, dryers, self-cleaning functions, sound masking, all integrated into a compact Washlet. But here’s the twist. For something so advanced, there are countless […]
Small Spaces, Big Insights: What urban Japanese apartments teach us about space-constrained design
When global teams talk about innovation, the spotlight often falls on tech giants or visionary designers. But in Japan, some of the most thoughtful, compelling lessons in design come from places no bigger than a walk-in closet. Urban apartments in cities like Tokyo or Osaka are famously compact. A single resident might live comfortably in […]
Magic Bags vs. Rescue Rangers: Comparing Food Waste Apps Across Cultures
Studying abroad, I stumbled upon an app that quickly became a daily essential: Too Good To Go. This wildly popular European platform transforms leftover food from cafes and restaurants into “magic bags”, at a wallet-friendly price. Every time I placed an order, I’d find myself eagerly heading to the venue, wondering what goodies awaited me […]
Examining UX Barriers in Japanese Vending Machines: Findings from Narita Airport
For many international travelers, Japan’s vending machines are an iconic part of the experience. They’re seemingly everywhere, offering pretty much anything. Today, many of these have a cashless payment option installed, providing increased convenience. But what seems straightforward to locals can be baffling for newcomers. While waiting for my flight, I spent 90 minutes watching […]
Why Are Young People Leaving Their Cars? Strategies to Win Back Their Hearts and Minds
Introduction The trend of young people distancing themselves from car ownership has been a significant topic in Japan since the early 2000s. This phenomenon, reflecting broader changes in economic, social, and lifestyle factors, poses a critical challenge for car manufacturers. To understand and address this issue, we need to delve into the underlying reasons and […]
Steering Towards Wellness
Introduction The intersection of wellness and technology is revolutionizing the automotive industry. With the advent of in-car health monitoring systems, vehicles are transitioning from mere transportation tools to spaces that enhance occupant wellness. This development signifies a pivotal shift towards designing vehicles that prioritize the holistic experience of users, marrying functionality with well-being. Wellness is […]