All about Sumehara, or smell harassment in Japan

“Back home in India,” as the woman pointed out in her video, “perfume is all about self-expression.” However, in Tokyo, where she is currently staying, it’s essential to respect shared spaces. 

Now, you might wonder how smelling good can be troubling?

According to experts, perfumes can trigger headaches or nausea. Dr Suyash Sheynde, Director and Consultant at LimbiQ Centre for Psychiatry and Child Development, Delhi, told indianexpress.com, “Strong smells don’t just stay in the nose, they directly affect parts of the brain linked to memory, mood, and even pain. For people with migraines, just a whiff of perfume can bring on dizziness, nausea, or a throbbing headache.”

More importantly, the problem lies with artificial perfumes, especially those filled with harsh chemicals. “They can irritate the throat, trigger allergies, and even affect hormones,” explained Sheynde.

Then, why are perfumes celebrated in India?

It is unlikely that everyone in India will embrace a pungent smell. The difference is in the cultural practice. In Japan, wearing a subtle scent is advisable, whereas in India, perfumes hold a heritage value. Our ancestors used them for centuries for relaxation and healing. Smelling good is often seen as a positive personality trait here.

Dr Sheynde reiterated, “fragrance is a part of our identity in India.” “From applying attar before prayers to using rose water and sandalwood in festivals, scents are woven into daily life. Our hot climate also means lighter perfumes fade away quickly, so stronger fragrances are useful and expressive,” he emphasised.

The Japanese perspective

Interestingly, the Japanese approach to strong smells has much to do with the country’s climatic conditions. Dr Sheynde shared, “The cooler climate makes even mild scents linger, and Japanese culture values wa (harmony), avoiding anything that disturbs others. A strong perfume there can feel like you are invading someone’s personal space. This is why they use the term sumehara (smell harassment).”

So, while a musky sandalwood might feel perfect in Delhi, it could feel overwhelming in Tokyo. That’s why Indians travelling abroad should be mindful of these cultural differences.

And as the woman in the video advised, “Here’s a tip if you’re visiting or moving to Japan: keep your scents light & fresh. It’s a small detail, but it makes everyday life here so much smoother.”

The informative video also delves into cultural preferences and reminds us that even everyday habits, such as the perfume we wear, carry cultural meaning. “A fragrance may mean pride, freshness, or celebration in India. In Japan, the same fragrance may be seen as intrusive. Smell is more than just chemistry; it’s communication, respect, and sensitivity to others,” concluded the doctor.

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