Actor Masato Sakai suggested that Maika Sasaki live in Mongolia to help her overcome her dislike of taking baths [1].
The exchange highlights the stark contrast in personal habits between the two entertainers, who are currently appearing together in a new McDonald's "Samurai Mac" television commercial [2].
Sasaki, a member of the idol group =LOVE, expressed a strong aversion to bathing. In response, Sakai described a simpler approach to hygiene found in Mongolia, noting that the dry air makes extensive bathing less necessary [1]. He said that people there often use small basins to wash quickly, and locals are often confused when Japanese people express a desire to use a shower [1].
Sakai's own habits stand in direct opposition to Sasaki's. He said that if left to his own devices, he would bathe five or six times a day [1].
Sasaki reacted positively to the idea of a more minimalist bathing culture. She said that such a lifestyle might suit her and stated her intention to go to Mongolia [1].
The conversation took place during a promotional appearance shared via YouTube and other news outlets on Sunday [1, 2]. While the tone of the discussion was lighthearted, it touched upon the cultural differences in how hygiene is perceived and practiced across different regions of Asia [1].
“"Mongolia is great. The air is dry, and everyone just splashes around with a basin and is done."”
This interaction serves as a promotional bridge for the 'Samurai Mac' campaign, utilizing the chemistry and contrasting personalities of a veteran actor and a modern idol to generate social media engagement. By pivoting from a personal quirk to a cross-cultural observation about Mongolia, the stars create a memorable narrative that extends beyond a standard commercial endorsement.
