Shoji Morimoto - Renting Friends in Japan

The rental of friends in Japan is a unique practice that reflects both the cultural nuances of the country and the emotional needs of a modern and often lonely society. One of the most well-known names in this segment is Shoji Morimoto, who became famous as “the man who does nothing” by becoming a professional rental friend. Morimoto is paid to simply be present, without offering advice or judgments, just accompanying his clients in everyday activities.

This idea, although it may seem strange to many, is seen by some Japanese as a practical and commitment-free solution to deal with loneliness and social pressure. In this article, we will explore how the process of renting a friend works in Japan, the costs involved, and the reasons that lead so many people to hire this service.

Shoji Morimoto: The Man Who Does Nothing

Shoji Morimoto has become a widely recognized name in Japan and in various parts of the world by offering an unusual service: companionship without commitments or expectations. Known as the “man who does nothing,” Morimoto is paid to be present, but without performing any specific activity, except accompanying the client in simple moments, such as a walk, a meal, or just sitting silently next to someone. His innovative approach draws attention not only for its uniqueness but also for the honesty it offers regarding the role he plays.

Morimoto started his service in 2018, using social media to promote the proposal. In his posts, he explains that his work does not involve counseling, interaction beyond what is necessary, or emotional involvement. His presence is purely physical and uncomplicated, something that, according to him, many Japanese appreciate precisely because it eliminates common social pressure. Morimoto shares that most of his clients seek relief from loneliness or companionship for activities they find uncomfortable to do alone, such as going to the doctor or attending a social event.

His work gained so much visibility that he began to be interviewed by major media and inspire others to explore the rental friend market. In a country with a high rate of social isolation, Morimoto’s service offers a practical and judgment-free alternative for those facing loneliness. With thousands of clients over the years, he continues to demonstrate how, in an increasingly digitally connected society, physical presence is still something deeply valued, even if the interaction is minimal.

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How to Rent a Friend in Japan?

Renting a friend in Japan is a relatively simple and accessible process for anyone. Typically, the first step is to contact the professional through social media or a specific website for rental friend services. Shoji Morimoto, for example, uses platforms like Twitter and Instagram to promote his work and interact with clients. Through these platforms, the interested party can send a message, discuss the activity they wish to undertake, and arrange a meeting place.

The rental process includes some important points:

1. Define the activity: The client informs the rental friend of the type of activity they wish to undertake, such as going to a café, shopping, or just chatting.
2. Establish expectations: Like many rental friends, Morimoto makes it clear that he does not offer advice or interact more than necessary. He is present, but his role is to be just a companion.
3. Payment: The amount is agreed upon in advance, and payment is usually made before or after the meeting, according to the rules of the professional or the company offering the service.

There are also companies specialized in providing accompaniment services in Japan, and they follow a similar process. In these companies, the client chooses from available profiles of companions, which include descriptions of the skills or characteristics of each “rental friend.”

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Friend in Japan?

The cost of renting a friend in Japan can vary significantly, depending on the experience and popularity of the professional. In the case of Shoji Morimoto, he charges an average of 10,000 yen per session, equivalent to about 100 dollars. This amount covers his presence in a specific activity, which can last a few hours. Morimoto does not charge extra fees for common activities, such as walking or chatting in a café, but the client covers additional costs, such as transportation and meals, if necessary.

Here are some factors that influence the cost of this service:

• Duration: Longer sessions may increase the price, especially if they require long travel or involve multiple activities throughout the day.
• Popularity of the rental friend: Professionals with higher visibility, like Shoji Morimoto, tend to charge higher fees due to demand.
• Special activities: Although Morimoto is known for “doing nothing,” some rental friends offer more personalized services, which may incur additional costs depending on the requested activity.

Additionally, the rental friend market in Japan is competitive, with different prices and offers. The average price for a simple meeting with a rental friend in Tokyo, for example, can range from 5,000 to 15,000 yen, depending on the person or agency offering the service.

Why Do People Rent Friends in Japan?

The practice of renting friends in Japan meets various needs, many of which are rooted in Japanese culture and lifestyle. In a country where the social pressure to meet standards is intense, many Japanese find it difficult to establish deeper connections or cope with lonely moments. Renting a friend, therefore, becomes a practical option to alleviate loneliness quickly and without commitment.

Some of the main reasons for hiring a rental friend include:

• Loneliness and social isolation: Many Japanese live alone, and the rental friend offers a comforting presence in activities that would otherwise be done alone.
• Absence of social pressure: Hiring a paid friend eliminates the expectation of maintaining a conversation or impressing, allowing the interaction to be lighter and more straightforward.
• Seeking support in difficult times: Some people hire rental friends to accompany them in emotionally challenging situations, such as a visit to the doctor or social events.

For some clients, the presence of a rental friend is more than just temporary companionship; it serves as an emotional relief for moments of loneliness or anxiety, providing a sense of belonging, even if just for a few hours.

Impact and Reflection

The rental of friends, although unusual, has attracted the attention of Western countries, where the phenomenon is beginning to emerge as an alternative for those seeking a different type of social interaction. However, reactions to the concept vary widely. In countries where the social culture is more open and informal, the idea of paying for companionship may seem artificial. In Japan, on the other hand, renting friends reflects an adaptation to a specific cultural need.

The future of this practice may be promising, especially in large cities where loneliness is common. Still, the model also raises questions about the nature of social relationships and what it means to pay for companionship. For many, the rental friend service symbolizes how modern life is shaping new forms of socialization.

In summary, the rental of friends in Japan, with Shoji Morimoto as its prime example, is a practice that combines the simplicity of temporary companionship with the complexity of modern human relationships.