Many know that Japanese culture disapproves of kissing in public, even pecks. But is it true that nowadays Japanese people do not kiss in public? How do they view this? In this article, we will address different topics and curiosities about kissing in Japan.
We can notice that even in animes and doramas, a kiss can end up being rare. Many successful romantic doramas sometimes do not feature any kisses. How do Japanese people view kissing? A survey conducted by SK Planet Japan with 400 men and women aged 20 to 30 reveals interesting things about kissing, breaking this topic that is usually a taboo.
About 60% of respondents have kissed only 5 people. 90% of women said that not all of their kisses led to a relationship. In other words, many women confirmed that they are willing to kiss for no reason, just because they want to. In other words, casual kissing has become common in Japan; it is no longer that promise it used to be.
The culture of kissing in Japan
Although many young people today are not ashamed to kiss, or even to kiss strangers, it is still difficult to find a “kissing” situation when their shy nature undermines their courage to approach girls. Some resort to group dates to get closer and find a relationship. During school life, many Japanese start a relationship, but sometimes they do not even have the courage to kiss.
Some often say that kissing in Japan only happens when both parties want sex, a big stereotype, a big lie. It is true that many prefer to do this in the comfort of their homes, and some couples may not kiss all the time, like when going to work and coming home. It is a fact that Japanese people feel shy and do not like to show affection in public.
Another thing that hinders kissing in public is the fact that the law in Japan prohibits relationships between students under 18 without parental consent. Although Japan is an open country and does not interfere in others’ lives, many end up feeling shocked or bothered when they see people kissing in public.
- There are legends that say that kissing was prohibited by Tokugawa due to the tuberculosis epidemic that haunted Japan at the time;
- Despite Japan’s conservative culture, some children and teenagers have been using kissing on the cheek as a greeting;
Japanese women seem to like being kissed on the neck.
The kiss that involves the exchange of saliva and tongue is called kuchizui (口吸い) which can be literally translated as mouth sucking. When the West influenced Japan during the Meiji era, the common kiss was called seppun (接吻) which can be literally translated as lip touch. Over time, the more common term came from the English kiss (kisu – キス).
- キスして – kisu shite – Verb to kiss
- チュー / チュウ- chuu – Onomatopoeia for kiss
- Kissu (キッス) can also be understood as kiss. (Or the name of the band Kiss);
Kissing in public in Japan?
Although it seems like a taboo, and is rare, it is not unusual to find people kissing, holding hands, or hugging in public in large urban areas of Japan. This is because many young people today are being influenced by Western media and are getting on board. In reality, interviews reveal that Japanese women feel more comfortable kissing in public when it is with a foreigner.
Perhaps many do not kiss in public due to the lack of initiative from men. Some say they would not feel ashamed if they were in romantic settings. Research reveals that about 20% of young people between 17 and 29 kiss in public. In cities like Osaka and Tokyo, this rises to 32%. See our guide on when to kiss in Japan by clicking here.
Just because Japanese people do not kiss or show affection in public does not mean they are not affectionate; they just show it differently. The fact is that Japanese people are people like anywhere else. And all people are different and have different preferences. I myself am Brazilian and do not go around kissing anyone who is not considered my girlfriend. But I also would not be ashamed to kiss in public, even in Japan.
Kissing strangers in public?
To conclude, I will leave some videos showing attempts by foreigners to kiss Japanese strangers on the streets. I am not very fond of this kind of prank, but who am I to criticize.
But it is interesting to see the reactions and opinions, to see how they refuse, or even some who accept and kiss without any shame. Don’t think it’s easy for them to accept because these videos usually only show the successes.
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