The Japanese love uniforms. Uniforms are first worn in preschool. Most Japanese teenagers wear one at school, and uniforms are also required in various professions. They're even worn away from work. Uniforms are ubiquitous in Japan. School uniforms were originally introduced as a tool to manage students, but they have evolved into a trendy fashion item popular even outside Japan. The sailor suit with skirt that is the typical style of Japanese schoolgirl uniform first appeared in Japan in the early 20th century, introduced by an American school principal. Uniforms increase group consciousness and preserve a sense of responsibility on the job. Some companies have used the power of uniforms to improve job performance. One example involves the cleaning crews of Japan's bullet trains. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, our theme is uniforms. Through uniforms, we will explore Japanese identity at the intersection of the individual and the group.

Peter Barakan
Host

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