Japan’s Love Affair With Bugs: From Childhood Fascination to Ecological Education
A Cultural Bond With Bugs
In Japan, insects are more than tiny creatures — they are cherished companions and cultural symbols, celebrated from the Heian-era classic “The Tale of Genji” to modern manga like Mushishi. Fireflies lighting up a summer garden or the gentle chirp of a cricket in a small cage are part of the seasonal soundtrack. Pet bugs are fed watermelon or specially made insect jelly, and rare species can sell for as much as 20,000 yen ($133).Celebrities proudly share their bug-hunting hobbies, much like Western stars boast about yachts or golf. This love for bugs reflects Japan’s deep-rooted sense of harmony between humans and nature.
From Childhood Curiosity to Science
Professor Munetoshi Maruyama of Kyushu University recalls falling in love with insects as a child. Today, he has discovered over 250 new species, though he humbly calls that “a small number” given that there are over 1.2 million known insect species worldwide.Japan encourages children to engage with insects early on through books, school programs, and guided tours. Even convenience stores sell bug-catching nets. Watching a caterpillar transform into a butterfly gives children a direct window into the stages of life, while studying insect movements can provide clues about climate change.
Bugs as Ecological Pillars
Insects are essential to ecosystems — they pollinate crops, feed birds, and help maintain biodiversity. Without them, human life would struggle to survive. “Social insects” like ants and bees demonstrate remarkable intelligence, from remembering routes to building complex colonies.Interactive Learning at Tokyo’s Bug Exhibit
At Tokyo’s “Great Insect Exhibition” in Sky Tree Tower, children crowd around live displays to observe and touch beetles, including the impressive Hercules beetle, one of the largest in the world. Event organizer Toyoji Suzuki encourages visitors to touch their horns and wings, noting their surprisingly soft texture.
