Exploring Havana’s Cultural Perspective on Tokyo Disneyland

During a March trip to Havana, our diverse group of guests, including private residence hosts, provided unique insights into their cultural perspectives. We discovered a complex and fascinating mix of interest and disinterest concerning Japan, with a touch of 'soft power' anime and manga evident among the children and younger generations.

General Attitude Towards Japan

In general, the majority of the Cuban residents we encountered were not overly enthusiastic about Japan. This is not to say they were entirely ignorant of the country’s cultural significance or economic prowess. They were well-informed, following global news through domestic prime-time television, but their interest in Japan seemed limited.

Indicators of Japanese Influence

Despite the prevalent attitude, there were subtle signs of Japanese influence that were quite noticeable. For instance, many children played with popular video games like PlayStation, a brand with significant tiers in the global gaming market. Additionally, the families we stayed with earned Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUCs), a currency 25 times more valuable than local Cuban Pesos. This economic disparity influenced the cultural landscape, making Japanese products and culture more accessible.

Connection to Tokyo Disneyland

The incident involving Kim Jong Un’s half-brother and his failed attempt to visit Tokyo Disneyland (TDL) added a layer of intrigue. The story of how he was detected on a forged passport and later assassinated under mysterious circumstances at Kuala Lumpur airport highlighted the fascination with Japan that transcended mere cultural interest.

However, the most compelling insight came from the older generation. Our encounter with a retired school teacher in provincial La Palma, who had fallen in love with Japanese women and culture in the 1960s after watching Kurosawa films at the local "Cinemartin" cinema, offered a window into the dreams and desires of older Cubans. Despite the constraints of their environment, these individuals dreamed of visiting Japan, including Tokyo Disneyland, almost as much as they dreamed of any other foreign travel.

Conclusion

In essence, while the younger generation may find elements of Japanese culture appealing, such as anime and manga, and while there are occasional dreams of visiting foreign lands like TDL, these dreams remain distant and unattainable for most residents of Havana.

Havana’s cultural perspective on Tokyo Disneyland and Japan as a whole is a blend of curiosity and limitation. The country’s complex relationship with both the Japanese culture and the broader world is evident in how these interests manifest among its population. Yet, there is an undeniable allure and a longing, especially among the older generation, that speaks to the universal fascination with foreign lands and cultures.