When you're smiling, the whole world smiles with you. These are the words taken from an old song. These words must have given Tomoji Kondo a bright idea. He started smiling classes. Now, they're all over Japan. People from all walks of life , aged 20 to 83, attend these classes.
As you enter the class, you must shout out, "Konbanwa!" (Good evening!) as loudly and cheerfully as possible. Then you're supposed to make direct eye contact and smile as you shake hands with your classmates. No bowing is necessary. Laughing is not allowed, either. According to Kondo, smiling immediately makes you feel better. Sound like a good idea? Why not give it a try?
