There is no absolute standard of beauty, but that doesn't stop people trying to attain it, and Japan has plenty of beauty secrets that might help some of us feel better about the way we look.
In Osaka this Saturday, young women can learn about fashion and make up at the very first Japan Girls Expo, a major event featuring many of Japan's up-and-coming models as well as more than 50 TV personalities or comedians.
Hosted at Intex Osaka, an exhibition center in Osaka's Suminoe Ward, this will be Japan's largest event of its kind, involving numerous attractions that offer beauty and fashion tips designed to help women feel more attractive and confident in their appearance.
A runway show, in which famous Japanese models will strut their stuff, will introduce visitors to the latest fashion trends, while makeup tutorials and workshops will be available in the beauty area. Visitors will also find that they can receive manicures and make-overs for free, and even get the chance to steal the show through opportunities to participate in various presentations at the booths.
Although the Japan Girls Expo 2014 focuses on cosmetics and fashion, there are other attractions at the site, such as fortune telling and stand-up performances. The event also includes live music shows by idol group NMB48 (a sister group to AKB48) and the quirky pop star Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. Kyary, who was bestowed the title of Kawaii Harajuku Ambassador in 2012, is one of a number of performers at the event whose mission is to promote Japan's kawaii (cute) culture to the world.
Another draw card of the expo is the gourmet corner, which will offer regional delicacies and trendy dishes, such as the "world's best pizza," as well as sweets, including truffle cheesecakes. A sweets contest also allows visitors to vote for their favorite confectioners from a range of first-class candidates.
In total there are more than 100 booths offering workshops, tutorials and goods.
Japan Girls Expo is an all-day event taking place April 12, starting at 11 a.m., at Intex Osaka exhibition center. The venue is accessible via Nakafuto and Cosmosquare Stations on the Nanko Port Town Line. Entry is ¥3,500. For more information, call 06-7732-8888 or visit japan-girls-expo.com.