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 best-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 people as a practical and low-commitment 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.
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Shoji Morimoto: The Man Who Does Nothing
Shoji Morimoto became a widely known 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 for accompanying the client in simple moments, like a walk, a meal, or just being next to someone in silence. His innovative approach draws attention not only for its uniqueness but also for the honesty he provides 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 for eliminating the common social pressure. Morimoto shares that most of his clients seek relief from loneliness or companionship to engage in activities they find uncomfortable doing alone, such as going to the doctor or a social event.
His work gained so much visibility that he began to be interviewed by major media outlets and to 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 non-judgmental 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.
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 friend-renting 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:
- Define the activityThe client informs the rental friend about the type of activity they wish to do, such as going to a café, shopping, or just chatting.
- Establish expectationsLike 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 merely a companion.
- PaymentThe 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 still companies specialized in providing companionship services in Japan, and they also follow a similar process. In these companies, the client chooses from available profiles of companions, which includes descriptions of the skills or characteristics of each "rental friend."
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Friend in Japan?
The cost to rent 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 food, if needed.
Here are some factors that influence the cost of this service:
- Duration timeLonger sessions may increase the price, especially if they require long travel or involve several activities throughout the day.
- Popularity of the rental friendProfessionals with greater visibility, such as 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.
In addition, the rental friends market in Japan is competitive, with different values and offers. The average prices for a simple meeting with a rental friend in Tokyo, for example, can vary between 5,000 to 15,000 yen, depending on the person or the agency that offers 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 social pressure to conform to standards is intense, many Japanese people find it difficult to establish deeper connections or cope with lonely moments. Renting a friend, therefore, becomes a practical option to relieve loneliness quickly and without obligation.
Some of the main reasons to hire a rental friend include:
- Loneliness and social isolationMany Japanese live alone, and the rental friend offers a comforting presence in activities that would otherwise be done alone.
- Absence of social pressureHiring a paid friend eliminates the expectation of maintaining a conversation or impressing, allowing the interaction to be lighter and more straightforward.
- Search for support in difficult timesSome people hire rental friends to accompany them in emotionally difficult situations, such as a doctor's visit or social events.
For some clients, the presence of a rental friend is more than just a temporary companion; it serves as an emotional relief for moments of loneliness or anxiety, providing a sense of belonging, even if only for a few hours.
Impact and Reflection
The rental of friends, although uncommon, has drawn 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 social culture is more open and informal, the idea of paying for companionship may seem artificial. In Japan, on the other hand, the rental of 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. Nonetheless, the model also raises questions about the nature of social relationships and what it means to pay for companionship. For many, the rental friends service symbolizes how modern life is shaping new forms of socialization.
In summary, renting friends in Japan, with Shoji Morimoto as its most notable example, is a practice that combines the simplicity of temporary companionship with the complexity of modern human relationships.