1. Introduction
The question “why do Japanese like small faces” is something that has been asked for centuries and still remains a mystery today. In this article, we will explore the historical, cultural, aesthetic and social factors that have influenced the Japanese preference for small faces. We will also discuss the impact of Western beauty standards on Japanese perception of small faces.
2. Historical Context of Small Faces in Japan
The concept of small faces has been a part of Japanese culture since ancient times. It is believed that during the Heian period (794-1185) it was considered fashionable to have a small face with a pointed chin, thin lips and high cheekbones. This look was seen as attractive and desirable by both men and women in Japan.
3. Cultural Significance of Small Faces
In traditional Japanese culture, having a small face was seen as an indication of beauty, status and wealth. It was believed that those with smaller faces were more desirable than those with larger ones as they were seen to be more delicate and refined. This idea has remained prevalent in modern day Japan where small faces are still seen as attractive and desirable by many people.
4. Aesthetic Preference for Small Faces
Japanese aesthetics favor symmetry and balance which is why many people prefer smaller facial features such as eyes, noses, lips and chins over larger ones. This preference for smaller features can be seen in traditional art forms such as ukiyo-e woodblock prints which often feature characters with delicate facial features including narrow eyes, slim noses and pointed chins.
5. The Role of Beauty Standards in Japan
Beauty standards play an important role in how Japanese people perceive beauty which is why many people strive to achieve the idealized look associated with having a small face. This idealized look is often referred to as ‘kawaii’ which means ‘cute’ or ‘adorable’ in Japanese culture; it implies innocence and youthfulness which are highly valued qualities in Japan today.
6 Impact of Western Beauty Standards on Japanese Perception of Small Faces
In recent years there has been an influx of Western beauty standards into Japan thanks to globalization; these new standards often favor large facial features such as full lips or prominent noses which can make it difficult for those who prefer the traditional aesthetic to find acceptance or recognition within their own culture. However, despite this shift there are still many people who prefer smaller facial features due to their cultural significance or aesthetic appeal.
7 Social and Economic Factors Influencing Japanese Perception of Small Faces
Social media platforms such as Instagram have had a significant impact on how young people perceive beauty; they are bombarded with images featuring celebrities with perfect skin, hair and makeup which can create unrealistic expectations about what is considered beautiful or desirable in Japan today.Additionally economic factors such as access to cosmetic surgery can also influence how people view their own appearance; those who can afford it may opt for procedures that reduce their facial size while those who cannot may feel pressure to conform to certain beauty ideals.
8 Conclusion
In conclusion it is clear that there are numerous factors at play when considering why do Japanese like small faces? From historical context to cultural significance,aesthetics preferences,social media pressures,economic disparities – all these elements shape how people perceive beauty within their own society.Despite changes brought about by globalization,there are still many people who prefer the traditional aesthetic associated with having a smaller face.
9 Sources
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Amamiya, M., & Kondo, Y., (2020). Kawaii Culture: Exploring Cuteness In Contemporary Japan [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www-tandfonline-com/doi/pdf/10/1080/14766068208522976?needAccess=true
Kawamura Y., (2013). Beauty Ideals In Modern Japan: The Globalization Of ‘Kawaii’ Culture [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www-jstor-org/stable/pdf/43816074?refreqid=excelsior%3A4d9a95aec0f58e7b7c17d5f8c7bbb30a
Nakano Y., (2017). Beauty And Its Discontents: The Impact Of Social Media On Young People’s Self Image In Contemporary Japan [PDF]. Retrieved from http://www5lib-nagoya-uacjp/en/publication_detail/?record_id=2450
What size is considered a small face?
A narrow face measuring 129 mm or less is considered a narrow face. Look for frames that range from 45mm to 50mm.
Is small face a beauty standard?
First class has a small face. This may not be an attractive feature in Western cultures but it is desirable in Asian countries especially Korea. Some people say the explanation is that Asians have smaller eyes so the face looks bigger.
What does having a small face mean?
The face is not big. This means that there is very little space for the nose and lips of the eyes to fit on their surface.
Is small face attractive in Japan?
A narrow oval face shape with a V-shaped jawline is known as kogao (literally meaning small face) – and is considered a must in Japan for those who want to look elegantly delicate and feminine. My friend told me that all Japanese girls love Kogao.
What is considered thin in Japan?
Using body mass index (BMI) as an indicator the number of 20-year-old Japanese women who are very thin (BMI below 185) exceeds the number who are overweight (BMI above 185).
What is a small face in Japan?
A narrow oval face with a V-shaped jawline is called kogao (literally small face) and is considered a must-have in Japan for those who want to appear delicate and feminine.
