From May to June 2024, the term “#BigWomanBoom” unexpectedly gained popularity on X (formerly Twitter), becoming a daily trend. These tall women have garnered attention among their “neighbors,” but what are their everyday lives like? We invited Aya Harashima (184cm), a “tall model,” to discuss what really happens in her life and her unique “concerns” from a personal perspective.
Unique Japanese Born into a “Tall Family”
——Mr. Harashima, what activities are you currently involved in?
Aya Harashima (hereinafter referred to as Harashima):I graduated from college with a degree in chemistry, left a pharmaceutical company after a few years, and am currently working as a model in a training school for an entertainment company.
——According to my research, 184cm places you among the tallest women globally who share information on social media. Of course, this doesn’t include athletes and people from abroad, but is your family entirely Japanese?
Harashima:I am completely Japanese, including my grandparents. I come from a tall family in Tokyo; both my father and brother are over 180cm tall, while my mother is under 170cm. It seems that the gene for tallness runs in both sides of my family.
“I Was Cornered by Three Guys at a Basketball Game”
It is evident that he was over 170 cm tall in sixth grade.
–You are the tallest member of your family. Did you participate in any sports?
Harashima:I played basketball throughout elementary school, junior high, and at a girls’ school until I retired in my third year of high school. It seems I started growing taller around the age of two. I was over 170 cm tall when I graduated elementary school and grew another 10 cm during junior high. Naturally, I was the tallest person in the school.
–Were you positioned as the center?
Harashima:That was my only option (laughs). I was an average athlete, but I wasn’t particularly skilled at exercising. There was one instance when our team got the chance to compete against an average high school team, and I was overwhelmed by three other players. Looking back, I remember feeling a bit pleased about it. I attended a private school throughout high school and always wore a school uniform, but it was challenging to find new uniforms, and I often felt the stares of others while commuting. I wore my school uniform and carried a backpack.
——It must feel unusual to be 170cm tall while carrying a school bag. It seems like a role-playing scenario.
Harashima:At that time, I absolutely dreaded going to and from school. When I was walking alone, a group of boys my age would often pass by and say things like, “He’s so tall” or “You should compare your height to mine,” which frightened me. I often felt hurt by their comments.
Go to article list
The journalist has also written other articles such as:
Nikkan SPA’s popular drama!
Understanding the #BigWomanBoom: Insights from Aya Harashima, a Tall Model
From May to June 2024, the term #BigWomanBoom gained immense traction on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the rising popularity of tall women across social media platforms. As tall women, especially those over 180 cm, share their experiences, the hashtag offers a glimpse into the unique lives and challenges they face daily. In this article, we delve into the life of Aya Harashima, a model standing at an impressive 184 cm, as she opens up about her experiences growing up tall in Japan.
Harashima Aya
Aya Harashima: A Unique Perspective
Current Activities
Aya Harashima, who holds a degree in chemistry, transitioned from a career in pharmaceuticals to the world of modeling. Currently, she is engaged in modeling and training with an entertainment company. Her journey showcases how tall women are redefining conventional career paths.
Family Background
Genetics and Growth
Harashima shares her tall family lineage, revealing that both her father and brother exceed 180 cm. Despite her mother being under 170 cm, the gene for tallness runs throughout her family, indicating an interesting blend of genetics that contributes to her height. Growing up in Tokyo, Harashima always stood out, not just because of her height but also due to her family’s stature.
Challenges Faced: A Personal Account
Harashima Aya during her school years
Life as the Tallest in School
During her school years, Harashima’s height was both a blessing and a curse. She recalls playing basketball and being the tallest person in her school, experiences that shaped her confidence but also led to moments of discomfort.
A Memorable Experience
One remarkable moment from her basketball days involved being outmatched by several other players, leading to a mix of pride and anxiety. She vividly remembers the teasing she faced while wearing her school uniform, often feeling like the target of unnecessary attention. Such experiences resonate with many tall women, emphasizing the importance of discussing height in social contexts.
The Social Dynamics of Being Tall
Perception and Interaction
The perception of tall women often differs based on societal expectations. While some celebrate their height, others can face negative attention.
- Attention: Tall women frequently draw comments from others—both positive and negative. Harashima often faced comments like “You’re so big!” from peers during school commutes, which sometimes led to discomfort and embarrassment.
- Interactions: Friendships formed in school might also have been affected; the dynamics of height can lead to misunderstandings, with peers unsure how to interact. Harashima notes this, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding about her experiences.
Personal Growth and Identification
As she navigated her childhood and young adulthood, Aya learned to embrace her uniqueness. The irony of being a role model for girls struggling with similar challenges became apparent to her, reflecting how perceptions can change positively over time.
Benefits of Being Tall: A Different Perspective
While tall women may face challenges, Harashima highlights several advantages:
- Career Opportunities: Many modeling opportunities are available for tall women, allowing them to break into industries that value height.
- Visibility: Tall women often draw attention in social situations, making it easier to stand out.
- Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that taller individuals may benefit from certain health advantages, such as lower risk factors for heart disease.
Practical Tips for Tall Women
Harashima offers practical advice based on her experiences:
- Embrace Your Height: Accept and celebrate your stature, as it makes you unique.
- Select Appropriate Clothing: Seek out brands that cater specifically to tall women to ensure comfortable fit.
- Build Support Networks: Engage with communities of other tall women for shared experiences and encouragement.
- Use Height to Your Advantage: Consider career paths that value height, such as modeling or sports.
Case Study: Impact of #BigWomanBoom
The #BigWomanBoom movement plays an instrumental role in changing societal perceptions of tall women. It has fostered dialogue, allowing tall women like Harashima to share their stories and inspire others.
| Highlights of #BigWomanBoom | Impact on Society |
|---|---|
| Increased Visibility | Encourages diversity and acceptance of different body types. |
| Community Formation | Builds networks for support and empowerment among tall women. |
| Cultural Recognition | Challenges stereotypes associated with height and femininity. |
Ultimately, Aya Harashima’s journey as a tall woman showcases resilience in navigating societal expectations and personal growth. The #BigWomanBoom trend contributes to a community where height is celebrated rather than shamed, paving the way for future generations to feel empowered in their skin.
Born in eastern Hokkaido in 1988, Aya Harashima has transitioned from academia to modeling, providing a unique perspective on the experiences of tall women in Japan. Follow her journey on X: @tsuitachiii.
The journalist has also written other articles that explore diverse topics, enriching the narratives surrounding contemporary issues.
