Exploring Sound Perception Changes with Insects: A Workshop Report

On September 20 and 21, 2025, a fascinating workshop titled "Yoru no Mushinone Zuskan" was conducted at Mitten Fuchu, a shopping center located on the 9th floor event space. Organized by Megane Top, this workshop aimed to educate participants about the significance of hearing through the enchanting sounds made by insects. This session was the 13th edition of workshops conducted nationwide and involved 31 children up to elementary school age, along with 32 accompanying parents, totaling 63 participants.

Event Highlights

Sound Vibration Experiment

One of the key segments of the workshop was a visually engaging experiment demonstrating how sound travels. Participants observed salt spread on a black vinyl-covered bowl vibrate in response to sounds like a dog's bark and a ringing phone. The intensity and style of the salt's vibrations varied with the nature of the sounds, leading to delighted reactions, particularly when the loud ringing phone produced the most dramatic movements.

Mimicking Insect Sounds

Another interactive activity allowed families to express insect sounds freely. Participants joyfully vocalized the sound of the Hayashi no Umaoi – a cricket – by saying “Ju-iin”. Children eagerly participated, and during a segment where the subtle sounds of the Tsuyumushi were played, bewildered expressions from kids who noticed their parents' lack of response showcased the differing hearing capabilities across ages.

Insect Sound Quiz

The workshop also featured an exciting quiz where attendees listened to insect sounds and attempted to identify them. Families were generally serious and focused, listening carefully to discern the various pitches and tones. Some participants even managed to score perfectly, using hints from the sounds they had mimicked earlier. The atmosphere was lively as everyone collaborated to come up with the correct answers, leading to a joyous event.

Participant Feedback

Responses from attendees were overwhelmingly positive:

- "I had a lot of fun with the sound vibration experiment and the insect sound quiz!" (2nd grader)
- "I want to try this experiment at home to check out different sound vibrations!" (Parent)
- "It was great to experience transforming sounds into written language." (Parent)
- "I realized how challenging it is for adults to hear higher pitch sounds!" (Parent)

Background of the Workshop

In Japan, over 10 million people report difficulties in hearing, especially as they age and begin to lose sensitivity to higher frequencies, a condition known as presbycusis. Because the progression can be so gradual that one may not notice the decline, it can hinder effective communication with others.
To address this issue, Megane Top, a company specializing in hearing aids, created a booklet titled Yoru no Mushinone Zuskan, aimed at heightening awareness about changes in hearing that individuals may overlook as they grow older. Utilizing smartphone cameras, the booklet incorporates a simple