A Morning Ritual of Self-Reflection
On November 6 in Tokyo, actor Rihito Itagaki pulled back his hair with a band to reveal a routine that begins long before the cameras roll. At a promotional event for cutlery manufacturer KAI, held to mark “Good Blade Day,” Itagaki detailed the quiet process of observing his own reflection immediately after waking.
For the actor, washing his face is more than a hygiene habit; it is a diagnostic tool. By examining his “unprotected appearance” in the mirror, Itagaki gauges his physical condition for the day ahead. If he detects puffiness around his eyes, he initiates a facial massage. If the mirror reflects the consequences of a late-night meal, he treats it as a prompt to review his recent habits. Itagaki suggests that people often remain strangers to themselves despite their constant proximity, making this deliberate morning check a necessary practice of self-awareness.
Authenticity Over Manufactured Contrast
When selecting attire for significant occasions, Itagaki rejects the urge to adopt a high-contrast persona. Instead, he prioritizes a version of himself that feels grounded and honest.
While his deep interest in clothing drives his distinct personal style, Itagaki insists that his choices remain tethered to the context of time, place, and occasion. He argues that the pursuit of beauty should not involve stretching beyond one’s limits to force an entirely new aesthetic. Rather than chasing artificial transformations, he advocates for polishing the self in the present moment, a process he believes naturally opens new paths in an organic manner.
Industry Collaboration
The event, which was covered by the ENCOUNT editorial department, also featured an appearance by makeup artist Kaori Nagai.
