Filipino and Japanese Cleanliness: A Shared Idiosyncrasy
Filipinos and Japanese, despite their cultural and economic differences, share a common emphasis on cleanliness and personal hygiene.
Both take pride in maintaining clean environments, including the streets, public spaces, and hygiene—well, for most Filipinos and Japanese.
Cultural significance
The emphasis on cleanliness in Japan stems from their deeply ingrained cultural values of respect, order, and harmony. The Japanese concept of “mottainai” (regret over waste) encourages individuals to be mindful of their surroundings and to minimize waste.
In fact, garbage disposal bins are difficult to find in Japan. They do it to minimize litter. As a result, the Japanese put their trash in their bag or pockets and dispose of it at home.
Tourists are expected to do the same. Unfortunately, garbage and litter are something Filipinos still have to learn from Japanese culture, but it’s getting there.
Cleanliness is next to godliness
Filipino and Japanese cultures are renowned for their hospitality, which involves a clean home extending beyond the living room to include bedrooms and bathrooms and maintaining neat closets.
Outside shoes are not allowed inside the house, and there are sometimes separate slippers for the bathroom or bedroom. Interestingly, bidets are common public toilets and are found in every home.
Japan takes it to a higher level
Japan takes cleanliness and hygiene to another level by implementing strict rules regarding footwear.
For example, in gyms and yoga classes, using street shoes is prohibited. There are separate lanes for walking with shoes and walking barefoot.
Similarly, shoes must be left outside the fitting room. These practices demonstrate Japan’s commitment to maintaining a clean and respectful environment.
Personal hygiene
It is widespread for Asians to bathe in the morning and at bedtime, as well as using soap and water (bidet) to clean their private parts.
In contrast, some other cultures may not prioritize daily showers, go without washing their hair for extended periods, and rely on toilet paper rather than water for personal hygiene—to the horror of many Asians.
Similarly, it is considered rude to go to work or school in the Philippines looking shabby, but in the USA, anyone can come as they are, wearing sleepers or pajamas—again, to the horror of Asians.
In Japan, leaving the house with wet hair is considered impolite. This cultural norm highlights the importance of neat and well-groomed appearances in Japanese society.
However, it’s interesting to note that Japanese fashion is extremely diverse.
Germaphobes
During the pandemic, disinfectant alcohol was the most bought product in the Philippines. But even beforehand, it’s common for many Filipinos to carry a small bottle of alcohol gel for keeping their hands clean and wiping phones or tables.
Alcohol has become a significant part of Filipino culture, with grocery stores dedicating large shelves to alcohol brands, reflecting the rising germaphobia and emphasis on cleanliness.
Ingrained in culture
In ancient times, both cultures designed their home to accommodate bathing and latrine areas, with usable water supply, as a critical part of their daily life. They emphasized the significance of cleanliness and personal hygiene in their cultures.
Is it too much?
While some may argue that this emphasis on cleanliness reflects a spectrum of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) where amathophobia (fear of dust) or mysophobia (fear of germs) may be present, these cultural practices promote a healthy, respectful environment and discipline.
