Japan: Men's Love Yelling Fest
Created: Jan 30 2009
Related articles: Arts & Entertainment
Due to cultural modesty, Japanese couples find it hard to express their love even in the privacy of their homes.
To make up for it, dozens of Japanese men yell out bold “love messages” in a Tokyo Park.
[Takeshi Azuma, Participant]:
"Please stay with me till the day we die! And thank you for marrying me!"
Some bring their wives along to the annual event in an attempt to show them appreciation.
[Ayako Azuma, Japanese Wife]:
"It moved me so much... because normally, I never hear words like 'I love you.’"
But many others just come alone to Hibiya Park to learn to be more expressive and caring.
Ichiro Iwasaki came all the way from Chicago.
[Ichiro Iwasaki, Participant]:
"When you say 'I love you' in English, it's easier and straight-forward. But when you say that in Japanese, I feel embarrassed."
The event was started up by a divorcee who feels Japanese men need to express their affection more “openly.”
[Kiyotaka Yamana, Event Organizer]:
"From my own experience, communication between a husband and wife can be difficult sometimes at home. So why not do it out in public? It refreshes your communication."
For this purpose, the event closed with a demonstration on flower offering etiquette.
