What is it with the obsession with cute in Japan?
Monday, August 30, 2010 at 07:41AM 
Kawaii, literally translates as cute, lovable, and adorable.
It is seen extensively in fashion, toys, personalities, entertainment, Japanese pop culture and appearance.
In the 70's teenagers started to form little cartoons and other cute things into their handwriting. From there acting cute, with childish mannerisms literally became trendy.
This continued in the 80's with cute Idols (models/muses/singer/celebrity/media personality rolled into one) and females emulating their style.
Now even police have their own cute mascots, and 'kawaii' has quite literally spread everywhere. Pikachu from Pokemon is even painted on their aeroplanes!
Think Hello Kitty, Miffy, Pokemon, they way girls act in shows like Sailor Moon... it's all kawaii.
Kawaii is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, for it's peaceful and unassuming nature. It's coming over to the West, with Gwen Stefani releasing Harajuku Lovers perfume (I wear it, it's gorgeous).
It really is a national obsession in Japan, part of their ridiculously fascinating culture. I'd love to visit one day.
