Sunglasses losing their stigma in Japan?

Back home in Australia, being sun smart is second nature. We grow up slathered in sunscreen, wearing wide-brimmed hats (it's actually compulsory at schools, with a "no hat, no play" policy), and reaching for sunglasses the moment we step outside.

When I first moved to Japan, I was surprised to realize that wearing sunglasses here can feel a bit out of place. Even in the height of summer, it seems like most people go without them, even though I wear mine basically year-round. 

According to recent surveys, only about 12 percent of people in Japan own sunglasses, compared to up to 80 percent in Western countries. A big part of that is cultural norms, since here eye contact is an important part of communication, and covering your eyes can unintentionally make you seem untrustworthy or distant. However, attitudes are slowly changing. With growing awareness of UV damage and even police officers now wearing sunglasses outdoors, the "intimidating" image is starting to fade.

Are you a sunglasses wearer, or have you taken the "when in Rome" approach and opted to go without?