Source: CCTV.com

11-23-2006 09:41

Thousands of nail-polish fanatics gathered Sunday in Tokyo, for the ultimate fingernail fiesta. Modern and traditional, all kinds of designs were displayed by more than 300 stylists.

Spectators stood in line for hours to have their nails painted, stenciled and polished by their favorite finger art professionals.

Spectator Yoshiko Sakami said:"To polish the nails has a healing effect. It doesn't necessarily have to be flashy, but I always want that refreshing feeling of painting my nails."

The highlight was the first World Nail Art Championship, in which 30 artists participated. All had won some form of competition before.

Some contestants claim Japan has an advantage, from tradition.

Competitor Takuya Akai said:"I used to be a craftsman. And that job required the same skills with the hands, as nail painting. So I think traditionally we Japanese are better suited for it."

Japan has more than 2,000 registered manicurists and nearly 300 salons. These numbers are still on the rise year by year.

 

Editor:Lu Yuying