Avoid 'smell harassment' on perfume day

Today, October 1st, is Perfume Day. If you've lived in Japan any period of time, you are probably not surprised to hear that Japan has one of the smallest perfume markets in the whole world. However, recent figures would suggest that perfume usage is somewhat more popular among Japanese youth. 

I find it interesting that there is a Perfume Day in Japan, given that strong smells are something to be avoided from ancient times. And more so in contemporary society where there is even a word for people to stigmatize people who wear strong smelling perfume. Smell harassment, "sumehara", is the word used for people who are selfish enough to wear strong smelling perfume that is intrusive. But it is not just used for perfume, but also bodily odour, cigarettes and unwashed clothes for example.

But yet October 1st annually is Perfume Day in Japan. The date was decided is because in France, the release date of a new perfume is around October 1st every year. Also, autumn is the season of fashion, and it is a time when interest in perfumes increases. The aim is to spread the appeal of perfume - no doubt with Christmas on the horizon! The anniversary was established by the Japan Fragrance Association, and was certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association.