Why is Japanese subculture so sexualized?
Japan is known for its unique fashion and subcultures that stand out from the rest of the world. From its striking technology to its even more striking fashion trends, the country is a source of surprises. In this article, we take a closer look at 10 of the most notable subcultures in Japan.

1. The Lolita subculture:
This is a fashion movement that focuses on a Victorian and childlike style, with an emphasis on voluminous skirts, bows and variegated prints. Inspired by 19th century European fashion, this style strives for an innocent and dreamy look.
2. The Visual Kei subculture:
This subculture caters to musicians and fans of the Japanese rock and metal scene. Visual Kei is distinguished by its extremely striking and theatrical clothing, especially its eccentric hairstyles and makeup. This style originated in the 1980s and is considered an expression of individualism and creativity.
3. The Ganguro subculture:
This is a fashion movement that focuses on a summery, bronze look. Ganguro girls often wear extremely dark sunscreen, bright makeup and eye-catching clothing and accessories. This subculture originated in the 1990s and was a reaction to formal and strict Japanese fashion standards. Some ganguro girls even took it so far as to paint themselves black and pretend to be real black women.
4. The Yamanba subculture:
This subculture is inspired by mountain goddesses and focuses on creating a rugged and natural look. Yamanba girls wear knitted ponchos, gold jewelry and natural makeup to accentuate their appearance. Some Yamanbas even wore prosthetic mutilated limbs and teeth painted black.

5. The Harajuku subculture:
This is a popular fashion movement in Japan that focuses on eye-catching and colorful style. Harajuku girls often wear more than five layers of clothing, neon colors and eye-catching accessories. This subculture originated in the 1990s and is inspired by Japanese street fashion. Some wear so many bracelets they can barely move
6. The Decora subculture:
This is a fashion movement that focuses on overloading clothes and accessories, such as flashing bracelets, jewelry and clips. Decora girls strive for a "more is more" there, trying to wear as many different accessories as possible. This subculture emerged in the 1990s and is inspired by Japanese pop culture and kawaii style.
7. The Kyary Pamyu Pamyu subculture:
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is a popular J-pop artist known for her unique and eye-catching fashion style. Kyary is influenced by Harajuku fashion and strives for a colorful and imaginative look. Her fans closely follow her style and create their own version of her unique look.
8. The Goth-Loli subculture:
This is a combination of the Lolita and Goth subcultures. This style focuses on creating a dark and tough version of Lolita fashion, with an emphasis on dark clothing, makeup and accessories.

9. Cosplay subculture:
Cosplay is a popular activity in Japan in which people dress up as their favorite anime or manga characters. Cosplayers often create their own costumes and accessories to resemble their character as accurately as possible. This subculture originated in the 1970s and has since grown into a worldwide movement.
10. The Kawaii subculture:
This subculture focuses on creating the cutest and sweetest look possible. Kawaii girls often wear eye-catching clothes and accessories with pastel colors and candy motifs. This style originated in the 1970s and has since become one of the most popular fashion movements in Japan.

Expression of individualism
Japan is naturally strict in relative terms compared to Europe and America. It is less natural in Japanese society than it is with us to "get out of line. It is simply less accepted. In these subcultures, many people come together and find a well-accepted form of self-expression. So in Japan, these subcultures are scrupulously observed and are an expression of individualism and creativity. Whether you find them striking or remarkable, they at least offer a unique perspective on Japanese fashion and culture.
Japanese subcultures and sexuality
Subcultures in Japan are often associated with sexuality for several reasons. First, sexuality and fashion are often seen as part of the same form of expression, with people dressing in ways that suit their sexuality. In addition, Japanese media, especially anime and manga, plays an important role in the sexualization of subcultures. In these media, characters are often identified by their fashion and clothing styles, and subcultures are often depicted as sexually expressive subcultures.
popular culture
In addition, eroticization in popular culture also plays an important role in the sexualization of subcultures. For example, there are erotic photo shoots, music videos and events where subcultures have been used as inspiration. The use of sexuality as a marketing and sales strategy is a well-known phenomenon in Japan, and has led to the further sexualization of various subcultures.
It is important to note that the sexualization of subcultures in Japan is not seen as disturbing by many and is considered part of popular culture. Yet there are critics who argue that it goes too far and leads to false expectations and perceptions.