I get that it’s the norm in other countries (I stopped wearing them in the US), and I also know that a handful Japanese people (young trendy city people and some old people in neighborhoods) don’t really wear them either. But it seems that whenever I see another foreigner it’s like a 30-70 split in favor of those not wearing them. What’s the deal?
It’s not really the masks themselves per se, I think it just suggests an inability to read the room and follow the other manners Japanese society expects. I think we should all be skeptical of doing things just because other people are doing it, but yeah.
I think people should adopt a “when in Rome” mindset when living in and visiting other countries.
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I don’t see so large a percentage as you do. In our area, at least, it’s young, Asian-looking men who are least likely to wear masks.
Are we talking about indoor or outdoor?
I’ve stopped wearing a mask outside since the government suggested it (unless I’m in a very crowded area of course) although a lot of people keep wearing them.
Inside I still think most people wear masks but are you talking about outside also? The government has said multiple times its pointless to wear masks outside. I see more people weekly not wearing their masks outside. Or in my case just under my nose so I don’t fog up my glasses.
If I am outside I don’t wear mask simple as that.
Most of the people I see not wearing masks indoors are old Japanese men. But more and more people of all ages & ethnicities are skipping the outdoor mask, even a lightweight one for etiquette. I’m still wearing mine because it keeps my nose warm, lol.
Maybe they simply don’t care what strangers think about them. If more Japanese people had that attitude, not nearly as many people would still be wearing masks all the time here either.
Personally, i think that if reading the room is your decision on a health and safety precaution, you’re doing it wrong.
I see plenty of foreigners and natives alike masking and not. it would be great if social norms and cultural mannerisms were respected when it comes to health and hygiene, but if its not illegal, enforced or even openly encouraged, people can and will do what they want
Do whatever makes you feel comfortable.
If that means going with the flow and wearing a mask, go for it. If that means not wearing one, go for it.
After 3 years, wearing a mask or not is no indication of character, Japanese or foreigner.
I’m not sure what area you’re in, but at least everywhere I’ve been, wearing a mask is not “expected,” culturally, and it’s not offensive or disrespectful to not do so (assuming you’re outside and not in an establishment or place where you have been instructed to wear one). My impression is that Japanese people tend to do it because they’re used to it, not because it’s a social norm.
Make no mistake, I’m in favor of wearing imasks to protect yourself and other people and I wear a mask every day because I’m just more comfortable with it now, but that doesn’t seem to be the reason you have for wanting others to do it.
I take my mask off outside, especially when riding my bike. I also don’t wear it at home.
Because I’m vaccinated and I don’t care about Japanese manners outside of work.
I do what I can but I’m very tired of living my life behind a mask when I walk around or hang out with friends. I just want that mild pleasure after 3 years of the country fumbling this.
What a wonderful observation. Thank you for your contribution to today’s discussions.
I generally stopped wearing masks outside as even the government said its largely OK. Not my fault if the Japanese haven’t picked up on that little detail.