Why Japanese Websites Look Different Than You May Expect

Why Japanese Web Design Is So Different – Cultural, Linguistic & Technical Factors – Randomwire

In the mind’s eye of many people, Japan is a land of tranquil Zen gardens, serene temples, and exquisite tea ceremonies. Both traditional and contemporary Japanese architecture, books and magazines are the envy of designers worldwide. Yet for some reason practically none of this mastery has been translated into digital products, in particular websites, most of which look like they hail from around 1998.

Fascinating look at some of the biggest Japanese sites.