Surprise! Why do Japanese people wear masks even when they are not ill?

Introduction.

It is commonplace in Japan to see people who do not appear to have a cold wearing masks when walking through the streets. So why do Japanese people wear masks even when they are not ill?

Let’s take a look at the reasons!

 Masks as ‘manners’, not just to prevent infection

The original purpose of masks is to prevent infection from spreading to oneself or others, but in Japan, masks also have a stronger meaning as a form of ‘etiquette’. For example, many people wear masks to avoid causing discomfort to those around them, even for a slight cough or sneeze.

Consideration for others – this may be a uniquely Japanese way of thinking.

Measures against hay fever and allergies

In Japan, cedar pollen flies in spring and a great many people suffer from hay fever. For this reason, many people cannot do without a mask for seasonal reasons. Even if you do not have a cold, it is quite natural to use a mask to prevent sneezing and itchy eyes.

As protection against cold and dryness

During the cold and dry winter months, wearing a mask helps to keep the mouth moist and warm. Especially for people with weak throats, masks are also part of ‘taking care of yourself’.

For concealing no make-up and for privacy

In fact, many people, especially in the younger generation, use masks to ‘hide their face’ or because they do not want their faces to be seen. In Japan, it is common to wear make-up. Therefore, once a face with make-up is shown, many women feel embarrassed to show their face without make-up. To put it bluntly, when Japanese women wear a mask, half of their face is covered and they do not need to wear make-up, which is cosmetically pleasing as they do not need to buy cosmetics! However, they say that they do not know when to take off the mask.

 Social changes after the COVID-19

After the corona disaster, wearing a mask became even more common. Even today, many people still feel anxious about removing their masks or feel ‘mask pressure’ in public places, and there is still no sign of the mask culture disappearing completely.

Conclusion.

Masks are not just a medical item in Japan, but have become an established tool for compassion, comfort and protection of one’s identity. The meaning of masks in Japanese society is very multifaceted and understanding the cultural context may change the way you see it.

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