By DayakDaily Team
JAPAN is a country where tradition, harmony, and community well-being are deeply woven into everyday life. From the art of tea ceremonies to the serenity of its gardens, the culture reflects a strong emphasis on respecting others. One of the most notable ways this consideration plays out is in how Japanese society approaches smoking.
Respect for others: A core value
In Japan, the concept of “meiwaku” (めいわく) or causing inconvenience to others is something everyone strives to avoid. This cultural value is evident in public spaces, where smoking is often limited to designated areas, carefully placed to keep cigarette smoke away from non-smokers. Whether on the streets or in train stations, Japan’s commitment to keeping public areas clean and comfortable for everyone is clear.
But Japan’s story doesn’t stop with these thoughtful touches. The country is now leading a quiet yet powerful shift in how people consume nicotine, driven by science, innovation, and a cultural desire to not disturb others.
The shift to smoke-free alternatives
In recent years, Japan has taken bold steps to reduce the harm associated with smoking by embracing smoke-free alternatives.
Nicotine is one of the reasons people smokes, along with taste and ritual. However, it is not the primary cause of smoking-related disease.
In order for adult smokers to switch to better alternatives, these alternatives generally need to deliver nicotine, in a way that is better for the consumers, as well as those around the consumer. These new products, like heated tobacco, have caught on quickly among Japanese smokers.
Science backs this change, with studies showing that smoke-free products can be a better substitute to obtaining nicotine.
Japan is known for its careful approach to public health recognised the potential of these alternatives. By supporting this new direction, Japan is also offering its citizens a way to enjoy nicotine while at the same time, being considerate of those around them.
Heated tobacco products, like its name suggests, only heats tobacco until 350 degrees Celsius compared to cigarettes, where an ignited tip reaches 800 degrees Celsius.
According to Dr Tom McGrath, Global Head of Professional Channels of Philip Morris International (PMI), he shared that scientific studies have shown that as the temperature of the tobacco increases, the levels of harmful and potentially harmful constituents also increase.
He added, “So, by eliminating combustion and reducing the temperature at with the tobacco is heated to, we will significantly reduce the overall levels of harmful and potentially harmful constituents.”
A supportive environment for change
Japan’s move towards smokeless alternatives didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of thoughtful policies and collaborations between the government and tobacco companies that are committed to a smoke-free future. These efforts have created an environment where new ideas can thrive, leading to a steady decline in traditional cigarette smoking.
PMI, for instance, has been instrumental in changing attitudes by offering alternatives that align with the cultural norm of minimising disruption. In Japan, heated tobacco products make up over 40% of the tobacco market, and one in three tobacco users were IQOS users, totalling about 8.5 million people.
Japan’s journey towards a smokeless future is more than just a public health success; it represents a broader lifestyle change. For many Japanese, moving away from traditional cigarettes isn’t just about better health—it’s about maintaining social harmony.
A Global Influence
Japan’s experience offers valuable insights for other countries dealing with the challenges of smoking. It shows that with the right mix of cultural awareness, scientific progress, and supportive policies, it’s possible to create a future where smoking doesn’t disrupt public spaces or harm public health.
As the world watches Japan’s quiet revolution, it becomes clear that the path to a smokeless future isn’t just about new technology. It’s about understanding and respecting the cultural values that shape our behaviour. In Japan, the future isn’t just smoke-free—it’s a future where respect and consideration continue to lead the way. — DayakDaily
