Bugs as Beloved Pets and a Reflection of Cultural Values

In Japan, the humble bug enjoys a unique status as a beloved pet, rivaling the popularity of cats and dogs. This fascination with insects is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, evident in classic literature like The Tale of Genji and modern manga and animation such as Mushishi, which features insect-like supernatural creatures.

Japanese people find joy in the simple pleasures of nature, such as the shimmering light of fireflies in a garden or the gentle chirping of crickets kept in small cages. These insect pets are often fed watermelon, but specialized jelly food for bugs is also readily available in stores. The market for these creatures is thriving, with rare and exotic specimens commanding prices of up to 20,000 yen.

Unlike in many Western cultures, where insects are often relegated to the realm of scientific study, in Japan, they are embraced as companions. Celebrities openly share their passion for bug-hunting as a hobby, much like Western stars might discuss their leisure activities. This widespread appreciation for insects reflects a deep-seated cultural connection to nature and a celebration of the interconnectedness of all living things.

Professor Munetoshi Maruyama, a bioenvironmental sciences expert at Kyushu University, highlights the allure of insects, emphasizing their small size and the potential for discovery. He notes the beauty of their forms and the thrill of finding new species, given the vast number of known insect varieties.

Japan fosters an early appreciation for insects, encouraging interaction with them from childhood. Numerous children's books, classes, and tours are dedicated to the subject. The availability of simple tools like nets at convenience stores further facilitates this engagement. The transformative nature of insects, such as the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, adds to the fascination, allowing children to observe the life cycle firsthand.

The study of insects also offers insights into broader scientific concepts, such as global warming, and reveals the complex intelligence of social insects like bees and ants. Furthermore, the crucial role insects play in the ecosystem, including pollination and serving as a food source, underscores their importance to human life.

This love for insects was evident at a recent exhibition in Tokyo, aptly named The Great Insect Exhibition. The event drew crowds of children eager to observe and interact with various beetles within indoor cages. One particularly popular species, the Hercules rhinoceros beetle, known for its size and distinctive appearance, was a major attraction.

Organizers of the exhibition emphasized the importance of hands-on interaction, encouraging visitors of all ages to touch the insects and experience their unique textures. Four-year-old Asahi Yamauchi, who was at the exhibit with his grandmother, expressed his love for bugs, comparing them to his fondness for dinosaurs and sharing that he has a beetle as a pet at home.