Why Japanese People Will Ask About Your Blood Type
Are you independent? Curious? Eccentric? A 100-year-old Japanese theory links your personality traits to your blood type.
Healthcare staff are far from the only ones likely to inquire about your blood type in Japan.
The very first time you meet someone, you may get the question, “Anata no ketsuekigata wa nandesuka?” (what is your blood type).
Your answer could determine what character traits a Japanese person thinks you have. The reason is that, while it may sound strange, tying blood type to personality has a long history in Japan.
Solders’ blood
Japan’s fascination with blood type personality theory is often said to begin with doctor Kimata Hara. In 1916, he published a research paper stipulating the connection between blood group and one’s temperament.
While not gaining widespread traction, the theory found followers in the corridors of power. For example, in the Japanese military, who in the 1930 tested soldiers’ blood to identify their strengths and weaknesses.
The theory’s breakthrough into popular culture began in the early 1970s with Japanese journalist and sumo essayist Masahiko Nomi.
Nomi was influenced by Psychologist Takeji Furukawa’s book “The Study of Temperament Through Blood Type” from 1930’s. He released “Ketsueki-gata de Wakaru Aisho” (Understanding Affinity by Blood Type) in 1971, and the book became an instant bestseller.
From then on, the idea about how blood types and personalities correlate took off. By the 1980s, the theory was prevalent across popular media and deeply embedded in the public consciousness.
Modern situation
While I’m old enough to think of the 1980s as “almost yesterday,” some time has passed since the decade of Ghost Busters and E.T.
Recent years have seen the influence of blood type thinking vane. Former practices, like companies considering blood types when making hiring decisions or forming teams, are all but disappeared.
Similarly, a recent NHK survey of parents in Tokyo’s Shibuya district showed that less than half knew their children’s blood type. One woman told the NHK that her family doctor had told her that babies did not need to be tested.
However, the theory is still kicking around. For example, you can find plenty of Japanese-language websites detailing what you should be aware of when choosing a romantic partner with a specific blood type or what type of boss a person with a certain blood type is going to be.
While it may sound strange, it is worth considering how horoscopes are still a thing across most of the world.
Why are blood type personality theories popular in Japan?
You probably have several questions by now. Anything about the characteristics of a specific blood type, we will get to below.
If you’re here with an all caps WHY????, you have come to the right place.
One possible reason why blood type personality theories are popular here is Japanese society’s tendency to focus on and prioritize the group.
Then there is continued cultural background noise. To this day, anime, manga, and video games often contain information about a character’s blood type, which is used to explain their personalities.
Add full industries of blood type-specific products (quite a few live their lives on the Japanese version of TV shop, but still), and you have a solid foundation for perpetuating these theories.
In this context, proof includes multiple websites detailing the blood type of famous Japanese people.
With that said, let us dive into what different blood types says about who you are, according to the Japanese.
What does blood type A say about your personality?
Commonality in Japan: 40% of the Japanese population.
Common personality traits: If you have blood type A, you are likely to be highly organized, precise, and pay attention to details. Other common personality traits include being diplomatic and friendly. Confrontations are the antithesis of people with blood type A. Harmony is a core concept to their nature, which can contribute toward them sometimes preferring to be alone because of their sensitive nature. Anxiety and stubbornness, at times from a perfectionist bent, are among the more negative qualities associated with having blood type A.
What type of person has blood type B?
Commonality in Japan: 20% of the Japanese population.
Common personality traits: Blood type B is the party type. Tell a Japanese person you have this blood type, and the theory tells them that you are easy-going, honest, bubbly, and creative. If in Tokyo, you can crack jokes about this being a Kansai blood type, as people from that region are regarded as outgoing, and not afraid to speak their minds – no matter what others may think. On the flip side of the coin, blood type B people are believed to be more prone to being self-centred, irresponsible, and eccentric.
What makes blood type AB people stand out?
Commonality in Japan: 10% of the Japanese population.
Common personality traits: Blood type AB mixes the two other blood types’ characteristics. Due to its rarer nature people with this type perceived as geniuses – or in some cases psychopaths. AB people are generally viewed of as eccentric and curious, prone to pursue dreams, and have a penchant for pursuing learning and knowledge across various fields. They can be indecisive and critical of others.
Is Blood type O just for politicians?
Commonality in Japan: 30% of the Japanese population.
Common personality traits: What type of profession would be good for a blood type thought of as leading to being outgoing, highly confident (at times crossing into being arrogant) and resilient with a penchant for leadership? If you answered politician, you are right – at least where Japanese Prime Ministers are concerned. Most of the country’s post-World War II leaders have in fact had blood type 0. Other personality traits associated with this blood type include difficulties expressing feelings due to fear of rejection outgoing.