News On Japan

Are More People Enjoying Solo Activities?

KYOTO, Oct 07 (News On Japan) - After the pandemic, the movement towards 'solo activities' has been accelerating in Japan, signaling a shift in the image of 'being alone' from negative to positive.

In a serene space in Kyoto City, a cafe housed in a building constructed in 1909 offers a delightful afternoon tea decorated with seasonal fruits. Afternoon tea is often associated with enjoying time with others, but now, reservations for solo experiences are available. “It feels like a dream to have such a lovely set all to myself,” a customer shared. This solo project has received such an enthusiastic response that it has extended its scheduled period since its inception.

The traditional image of afternoon tea has transformed. “Usually, it's a two-person experience, so it's too good an opportunity to miss,” another customer remarked. "It's liberating and allows me to use my time freely."

The concept of solo activities is becoming increasingly accepted, with more people choosing to spend time alone. The proportion of people intentionally making time for themselves has risen from 27% thirty years ago to around 50% last year. But what drives this growing interest in solo activities?

In today’s information-saturated society, constantly connected through the internet, many people wish to cherish their alone time. The unique circumstances of the pandemic have further emphasized the value of personal time.

When asked about their impression of solo activities, some people said, "I often go to karaoke alone," while others stated, "I love doing things by myself. I even go to concerts and theaters alone." The once negative image of being alone has evolved. "It used to be seen as lonely, but now I don’t feel that way at all."

Businesses have taken note of this shift in perspective. One such company is Club Tourism, which has been offering solo travel tours. Last year's sales of domestic solo trips reached a record high in their 30-year history. "We guarantee a single room at inns, including hot spring resorts," explained a company representative. "Our tour guides accompany the travelers, so even those not used to traveling can join with ease."

On this particular day, a 2-day bus tour departed from Osaka to Shizuoka, with 17 solo participants. "That’s Mount Fuji over there," pointed out one participant. "It's often challenging to match schedules with friends, so going alone is just more convenient."

A participant with two years of solo travel experience captured scenes from their trip. "As expected from Shizuoka, it's surrounded by tea plantations." Each person had two seats to themselves on the bus, allowing them to relax comfortably during the journey.

They visited Horai Bridge, the world's longest wooden footbridge, and indulged in fresh seafood from the nearby river. On the second day, they went to a terrace overlooking Mount Fuji. Unfortunately, the mountain was not visible that day, but the experience of solo travel brought a sense of serenity.

Later, the solo travelers exchanged conversations, snapped group photos, and enjoyed local dishes. It seems that being alone made it easier to connect with others along the way. "At first, it was a bit daunting," one traveler admitted, "but once I got used to it, I found it quite satisfying."

Now might be the perfect time to dive into the world of solo activities, where you can experience unique encounters and new wonders.

Source: YOMIURI

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Society NEWS

A fire broke out on the morning of April 2nd at a farm in Kamishihoro, a town in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, killing approximately 20 cattle housed in a barn.

A special unit dedicated to investigating "lone offenders"—individuals who commit acts of terrorism without belonging to any specific organization—has been established for the first time in Japan within the Public Security Bureau of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.

Downtown, the popular comedy duo, has stepped down as official ambassadors for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, according to an announcement by the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition.

A tour bus carrying over 20 foreign tourists collided with a van inside the Tokiwa Tunnel on the Dōō Expressway on March 31st, sending several people to the hospital.

In August 1990, two men hiking in the Scottish Highlands captured a striking photo of a silent, diamond-shaped object hovering in the sky—later dubbed "the greatest UFO photo ever taken." A Harrier jet was seen circling the object before it suddenly shot straight up and vanished. (Abroad in Japan)

The Fukuoka Prefectural Police will introduce a new recruitment track for working adults starting next fiscal year, easing both age and physical fitness requirements as part of broader efforts to combat a worsening manpower shortage.

Children on spring break took part in a zazen meditation session at Toshoji Temple in Kiho, Mie Prefecture, on March 28th to help reset their daily routines.

A growing number of women in Japan are choosing men’s-style suits for both comfort and practicality, reflecting a broader shift toward genderless fashion. From school uniforms to police attire, traditional dress codes are evolving as functionality and diversity take center stage in work and daily life.