Sunglasses in Japan: Stigma or Style?
The Rising Popularity of Sunglasses in Japan Sunglasses, typically viewed as a fashion accessory, are now being recognized for their role in protecting eye health in Japan. While they have gained some traction among outdoor workers, they remain uncommon even during the summer months. With increasing awareness about the dangers of UV rays, could sunglasses become a "must-have item" for daily outings? Cultural Reluctance to Embrace Sunglasses According to data from Meganetop Co., which operates "Megane Ichiba" stores, and "Gankyo DB" by Gankyo Publishing Co., an internet survey of over 40,000 people in the summer of 2024 revealed that only 12.1% owned sunglasses. This is significantly lower than the 60% to 80% ownership rates seen in Western countries, indicating that sunglasses are not yet widespread in Japan. Professor Takuma Takehara of Doshisha University, who specializes in cognitive psychology, explains that there is a cultural resistance to weari...