By Wonsuh Song
During Golden Week in Japan, I visited Shinjuku Gyoen, a well-known spot featuring a vast and beautiful garden. Within the grounds is a popular Starbucks that, thanks to its scenic setting, has become an Instagram hotspot. What struck me immediately was the long line of people—stretching outside the store—waiting for more than 30 minutes just to get a cup of coffee they could photograph against the picturesque backdrop.
It’s no longer unusual to see travelers diligently snapping dozens of photos for that perfect shot, often sacrificing their precious travel time in the process. Of course, everyone’s idea of what makes a trip enjoyable is different. However, I can’t help but feel that part of traveling’s true essence lies in simply absorbing the local atmosphere—taking in the sights and sounds, observing the people, or resting under a tree. Those intangible experiences often linger more vividly in our memories than a perfectly staged photo.
Moreover, what troubles me is how these “picture-perfect” moments on social media extend beyond personal satisfaction. Most images posted online capture only the best possible slice of someone’s life. It’s easy to feel inferior or left out when we compare our own day-to-day routine to the highlight reels that dominate social media feeds. This tendency to measure ourselves against carefully curated snapshots can damage our self-esteem and may even contribute to increasing rates of depression and anxiety.
Of course, social media offers valuable information and connections. Yet we must be aware of the pitfalls of turning travel—or any meaningful experience—into a mere quest for “likes.” Instead of spending hours queuing for one Instagram-worthy moment, perhaps we could make more room for genuine exploration and discovery. After all, sometimes the best memories are the ones we carry within us—moments that can’t be captured by a camera but leave a lasting impression on our hearts.
As we navigate the social media era, let’s remember that the most rewarding journeys aren’t necessarily the ones with the most spectacular photos, but those that allow us to immerse ourselves fully in a new place, savoring the present without worrying about the perfect post.
Wonsuh Song (Ph.D.)
Full-time Lecturer, Shumei University / NKNGO Forum Representative
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