Indian woman experiences cultural shock: perfume equals harassment
A woman from Chennai, now living in Japan, shared her astonishment at the cultural difference, explaining that wearing strong perfume, which is common and acceptable in India, can be perceived as harassment in Japanese society.
‘Perfume is Equal to Harassment?’: Indian Woman Shares Eye-Opening Experience in Japan
Living abroad often comes with surprises, but for one woman from Chennai, India, her move to Japan revealed a cultural difference she hadn’t anticipated. Wearing perfume, something many people in India consider a personal choice or a form of self-expression, turned out to be far more sensitive in Japanese society.
The woman, currently residing in Japan, shared her experience in a video posted by @anushainjapan. Her post, captioned, “Today I learned something surprising!!,” quickly drew attention online, sparking conversations about cultural norms and etiquette.
In Japan, subtlety is often valued over bold personal expression, and this extends even to scents. People prefer light fragrances or none at all, especially in shared public spaces. Strong perfumes or colognes can be seen as inconsiderate, and in extreme cases, they may even be classified under a concept called sumehara, which stands for “smell harassment.” This term covers situations where overpowering smells, whether from personal care products or poor hygiene, cause discomfort to others.
Reflecting on her experience, the Chennai native shared, “I don’t see it as criticism, but as a cultural learning experience.
People are encouraged to keep scents light and unobtrusive to ensure a comfortable environment for everyone. The South China Morning Post highlights that individuals wearing strong perfumes or exhibiting poor hygiene can unintentionally become perpetrators of smell harassment.
The woman also offered practical advice for travelers and new residents in Japan: “Keep your perfumes light and fresh to avoid causing discomfort. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference.” She emphasized that paying attention to such details not only prevents misunderstandings but also enhances the experience of living in Japan, where subtle gestures and consideration for others are highly valued.
Her video, shared on August 26, 2025, quickly went viral, amassing over 29,000 views and countless comments. Many viewers expressed surprise at Japan’s strict norms around fragrances, noting that habits considered normal in one country might carry unintended consequences in another. Others praised her for sharing the insight, calling it an important cultural lesson that underscores the nuances of living abroad.
Ultimately, this experience serves as a gentle reminder of the little things that shape our interactions. Perfume, in this case, became a bridge to understanding cultural sensitivity, respect, and the importance of shared spaces. For the woman from Chennai, what started as a small surprise became a meaningful learning moment—one that she hopes will guide others navigating life in a country with customs different from their own.