An investigation of the significance of current Japanese youth subculture styles

Abstract

Japan has a short history of youth subcultures since it opened its doors to Western culture in the mid-nineteenth century, but these have quickly evolved and developed subculture styles so unique and interesting that Western countries are taking great interest in their looks and publishing many books dedicated to the topic. This study examines the significance of Japanese youth subculture styles of the 2000s in terms of how they are affected by international and domestic society and also how they inversely influence mainstream culture. It discusses and provides interesting insight into the unique characteristics of Japanese youth subculture styles, which reflect the values of youths today and resist elements of society in a visually stimulating way.