Understand how the Japanese are relating in the digital age

Being in a relationship in the 21st century seems not to be as simple as it could be. Despite there being many more possibilities to meet someone – especially online – a good part of young people remains single and even uninterested in starting a family. This behavior is even more pronounced in Japan, which is facing a sharp decline in birth rates that worries the government. 

Due to the single youth, a market for rental boyfriends is growing in the Asian country, as well as actions from the government itself to encourage citizens to start families again. However, there is another trend that may also influence these people: anti-dating apps. 

Little interest in relationships

In the last three decades, the number of single people, especially of reproductive age, has grown significantly. But what worries is not just the marital status but the outlook. Of the total number of singles, about half do not wish to get involved with anyone, according to this research from Revista Planeta. These people prefer to engage in other activities, such as maintaining a hobby and dedicating themselves to their careers.

But what does intimate behavior have to do with society in general? Because of the decline in birth rates, which is a direct reflection of low interest in starting families. Consequently, the country has seen the number of older people grow, while the base of the pyramid, which would be the younger ones, diminishes. In a few years, there will be few citizens of working age to work and many retirees, which represents a challenge for any government. 

Inside the dating market 

If on one hand there is no interest in having a serious relationship, on the other hand, people still feel the need to receive a bit of attention and affection. In this context, the rental boyfriend concept emerged in the rental boyfriend stores.

In practice, it works like this: the woman goes to a host café where she meets various men with whom she can talk, receive affection, and attention for a few minutes. While they get to know each other and chat, the consumer spends money on drinks. 

The main objective of rental boyfriends is to increase the sales of the establishments. But for that, they need to treat women well, making them feel special.

Digital Cupid from the government 

The Tokyo government announced that it will launch an app for people to meet each other. The idea is not new, as there are other examples in the market, such as Tinder, Bumble, etc. 

The aim is to reduce the rate of single people aged up to 50, especially due to the low birth rate. The system will be open in 2024 for those who live or work in Tokyo and are over 18 years old. 

Importance of anti-dating apps

Despite the name, anti-dating apps can be quite beneficial for those who wish to start dating again. According to the ExpressVPN blog, these platforms serve those who want to deal with their emotions after the end of a relationship, as well as to make new friendships.

Although they were not specifically created for the Japanese audience, they can be quite useful for them. Check out the main examples of this type of technology: 

• Break-up boss: created by relationship writer Zoë Foster Blake, this app serves as a friendly member for those ending a relationship. It is filled with practical advice, therapeutic games, and other activities to make the routine of those letting go more positive;
• Halmos: this app offers community support for those who have separated. It is a true social network where users can share feelings and memories, creating a kind of virtual cemetery to vent and reflect without reservations about this moment;
• Mend: featuring an AI chat system, this app allows users to receive psychological guidance to help them move on. There are podcasts and free materials on the topic, but subscribers have access to other interesting resources, such as mini-classes and a community of people going through the same situation. 

As can be seen, there is an effort from the market and even the government for people to connect, especially in Japan. After all, despite being an intimate topic, it can impact the entire community by hindering population growth. For those who are single, it is worth considering the possibilities and resources available to meet new people, at least in the realm of friendship.