Are BEARDS OK in Japan? Ask Japanese girls and boys about their opinion on facial hair

Summary

In this video from Ask Japanese, Cathy Cat explores the topic of beards and Japanese perspectives on facial hair. Many Japanese respondents prefer clean-shaven looks, associating beards with older men or specific types, like 'wild' or 'dandy' styles. While beards are seen as less clean and professional, some believe they can suit certain men. Beards are often discouraged in Japanese workplaces, where clean-shaven faces are expected, especially in job hunting. Overall, beards are rare in Japan, though some respondents think people from abroad pull them off better.

Takeaways

• 🧔 Most Japanese people prefer a clean-shaven look and find beards less clean.
• 👨‍🦲 Japanese men with beards are often seen as older or more mature.
• 👦 A youthful appearance is preferred over a bearded look by many.
• 💼 Workplaces in Japan often require employees to be clean-shaven.
• 🌍 There is a cultural difference in beard acceptance, with some suggesting that people from abroad can pull off beards better.
• 🎭 Certain types of men, like the 'wild' or 'dandy' types, are seen as suitable for beards.
• 🚫 Some jobs, especially in traditional or conservative fields, forbid beards.
• 👴 There is a general consensus that older men are more acceptable to have beards.
• 🌿 Some people believe that beards can be part of a fashion style, even if they don't wear them themselves.
• 🎥 Celebrities like Orlando Bloom and Johnny Depp are mentioned as examples of people who suit beards.
• 💬 The video concludes by asking viewers for their opinion on beards.

Q & A

What is the general opinion of Japanese people about beards based on the interviews?

Most Japanese people interviewed seem to prefer a clean-shaven look. Many feel that beards appear less clean and are associated with older men or specific 'wild' types.

Why do some Japanese people associate beards with looking older?

Beards are often seen as a sign of maturity. Some interviewees mentioned that having a beard can make someone look more mature, while a clean-shaven face looks more youthful.

Are there any exceptions where Japanese people think beards are acceptable?

Yes, exceptions were made for 'wild types' or people in certain age brackets, like men over 30 or 40, and some admired personalities like Orlando Bloom and Johnny Depp were mentioned as people who can pull off beards.

What are the workplace expectations regarding beards in Japan?

In Japan, most workplaces, especially in business settings, require men to be clean-shaven. Some interviewees mentioned that their supervisors told them to shave properly for a professional look.

How do Japanese opinions on beards differ for men abroad compared to Japanese men?

Japanese people generally think that men from abroad are more suited to wearing beards, particularly those with a 'wild' or 'high class' appearance. There is a belief that foreigners can pull off the look more naturally.

What type of man do Japanese people think can pull off a beard?

Interviewees mentioned 'wild types,' 'dandy types,' and older men. Specific examples like Orlando Bloom, Johnny Depp, and Japanese celebrities like Oguri Shun were highlighted as those who can suit beards.

What reasons did some Japanese people give for preferring men without beards?

Reasons included that clean-shaven men look more youthful, appear cleaner, and are more suitable for professional settings. Some also mentioned that beards can be annoying, especially during physical closeness, like kissing.

At what age do Japanese people feel it's more acceptable for men to have beards?

Some interviewees felt that men can grow beards after the age of 30 or 40, with one person saying it might be okay around age 50, as it aligns with a more mature or distinguished look.

What cultural differences were noted between Japan and other countries regarding beards?

Beards are seen as more common and acceptable in other countries, whereas in Japan, especially in professional settings, clean-shaven men are preferred. The cultural norms abroad seem less strict about facial hair.

How does personal fashion affect opinions on beards in Japan?

Some people mentioned that beards do not match certain fashion styles. For example, one person pointed out that a curly beard would not go with their look, emphasizing how personal style can influence opinions on beards.