A Must-Have Item for Summer

It's scorching hot here in Europe☀️☀️ Japan has that Germany doesn't in such a hot season – a wide variety of #handkerchiefs ! A handkerchief is a must-have item for schoolchildren in Japan.  I remember rushing into a shopping outlet to buy one when my child attended a Japanese school as a guest pupil.

Why has the tradition of using handkerchiefs faded in Germany? One possible reason is the widespread use of paper towels and electric hand dryers in restrooms here.

Another reason is the difference in climate. European summers are so much more bearable that people can do without handkerchiefs. By contrast, they are indispensable for the Japanese for wiping away sweat during the boiling hot months.

In short, handkerchiefs serve as a practical everyday item in Japan, whereas in Germany and other European countries, they are more of a decorative accessory. In a historical nod to the handkerchief, you may still find pocket squares in formal men's attire.

Although I don’t usually carry a handkerchief myself, I never fail to pack one in my business bag when I’m away #interpreting . It comes in handy when paper towels run out in the restroom at a convention hall or coffee spills on a bumpy train ride on the way to an engagement.

My favourites are those with towelling fabric on one side. From time to time, I receive handkerchiefs – some made in Imabari (今治) – as a souvenir from clients. Over the years, I’ve built up a small collection.

A piece of cloth exquisitely designed with beautiful prints – these handkerchiefs have a Japanese feel, don’t they?"

Given global warming, perhaps Germany should reconsider handkerchiefs as a summer essential. They are eco-friendly, sustainable alternative to paper towels.

#cultural #difference #Japan #Germany