Eyes Day (Hitomi no Hi)

What is Eyes Day?

January 3rd is "Eyes Day" (Hitomi no Hi) in Japan, based on a wordplay where "hi-to" (1) and "mi" (3) combine to sound like "hitomi" (eyes/pupils). It was established by the eyeglass and contact lens industry, with the aim of keeping our eyes healthy and beautiful. During the New Year holidays, when people tend to spend more time in front of TVs, smartphones, and games, this anniversary serves as a reminder to take care of your eyes and pay attention to their health.

The popular saying that "80% of information comes through the eyes"

It is often said that about 80% of the information we take in from the outside world comes through sight. The figure isn't based on any precise measurement, but our eyes clearly play a major role in how we perceive the world's colors, shapes, and the expressions of people we care about. January 3rd is a day to thank your eyes for working all day long, and to give them a break by gazing at distant scenery or simply closing them for a while.

Beautiful eyes are a "mirror of the heart"

As the saying goes, "the eyes speak louder than words"—our eyes reflect our inner state of mind and intentions. January 3rd is a day to nurture eyes that shine with health from the inside, through a balanced diet (rich in vitamin A, for example) and adequate sleep. Looking at the world through clear eyes can help make your resolutions for the new year feel more vivid and positive.

Welcoming the light of the new year with clear eyes

January tends to be a dry month, which can lead to eye trouble. January 3rd is an ideal time to start specific eye care practices, such as using a humidifier or making a conscious effort to blink more often. Taking some time away from the bustle of New Year sales and the excitement of "first dreams" of the year to simply close your eyes and rest quietly can help you recharge for what's ahead.

Surprising facts and knowledge about the eyes

• Iris recognition: The pattern of the iris around the pupil is unique to each person and is used in biometric identification, which works even with glasses or contact lenses.
• The pupil at work: The pupil changes size depending on how bright it is, adjusting the amount of light that enters the eye.
• The mystery of the cornea: The cornea has no blood vessels, which helps keep it transparent; it gets much of its oxygen from the air, dissolved in the tear film.
• The role of tears: Tears aren't just water—they have a sophisticated three-layer structure (oil, water, and mucin layers) that protects the eyes like a barrier.
• Blinking: We blink roughly 15,000 to 20,000 times a day, automatically cleaning and moisturizing our eyes.

A clear view opens up a new world

Eyes Day is a day to trust in your "power to see clearly." Even goals that have felt vague can come into sharp focus once you take care of your eyes and refine your perspective. On January 3rd, treat your eyes to beautiful scenery and art. When you look at the world with clear eyes, the world will return new opportunities and brightness to you.

Ideas for enjoying Eyes Day

• Take a break from your smartphone and create an "eye care time" by warming your eyes with a steamed towel to soothe accumulated fatigue.
• Consciously gaze at the distant sky or green trees, relaxing your eye muscles and restoring depth perception.
• Check whether your current glasses or contact lenses are still right for you, along with your stock of eye care products.
• Enjoy an "eye-friendly meal" featuring foods known to be good for eye health, such as blueberries and dark green and yellow vegetables.

Vividly painting the future with sparkling eyes

January 3rd is a day to decide what colors will paint the scenery of the new year ahead. May every moment your eyes capture be filled with hope and joy. May today be a wonderfully bright day for you—one where you can see the world more beautifully and look at it more deeply than ever.