Society 'Old guy rental' service booming in Japan

[thomas]

Thirteen years had passed since Takanobu Nishimoto launched a rental service featuring middle-aged men to improve the often negative public perception of this demographic in Japan. In an interview with the Mainichi Shimbun, the 57-year-old had reportedly expressed great pride in the qualities of older men, suggesting that they were far more impressive than many gave them credit for.

The service offered so-called "ossan" — a colloquial Japanese term for middle-aged men — to those needing companionship or assistance with everyday tasks. The men available through the service were presented on its website with playful or unique descriptors, such as a former politician, an IT specialist who played the violin, or someone known for being a good listener with a cheerful smile. Their photos, often featuring humorous or determined expressions, accompanied the descriptions.

Clients could hire these ossan for a fee of 1,000 yen (approximately 7 US dollars) per hour for a wide range of activities. These included social outings to places like izakaya pubs, help with tidying a room, or simply sharing a drive. Those interested in the service must submit a request form to arrange an appointment.

Women reportedly make up around 80% of the clientele for the service. While many of those hiring are in their 30s and 40s, users span multiple generations. Younger clients, in particular, have often sought guidance about career changes, job searches, or workplace relationships, and some have used the service for mock interview practice. One customer who had left a strong impression on Nishimoto was reportedly a terminal cancer patient who expressed a desire to "laugh in the end." Other requests have included help with decluttering, seeking advice on romantic matters, or asking an ossan to accompany an elderly parent living far away to medical appointments. Professional boundaries are considered essential to the service's operation. Nishimoto is said to verify the identity of every applicant and serves as an intermediary, passing along general information such as the customer's approximate location and age, while withholding real names. After each appointment, the ossan are strictly prohibited from initiating further contact with the client. Any individual who receives three complaints is dismissed from the service. Maintaining distance by limiting personal disclosures and steering clear of potential conflicts of interest is seen as crucial. Nishimoto has suggested that relationships with the ossan might feel unexpectedly comfortable—comparable, perhaps, to that with an uncle—thanks to this carefully preserved sense of space.

From 'creepy' to awesome: 'Old guy rental' service in Japan changes lives - The Mainichi

TOKYO -- It's been 13 years since Takanobu Nishimoto started an

mainichi.jp

 

[salyavin]

hmm as a greying 50s person I wonder if I have a future in that when we move back lol

 

[mdchachi]

Not sure Y1000/hr is a good enough reason to get out of bed though.

 

[thomas]

Not sure Y1000/hr is a good enough reason to get out of bed though.

Getting paid to accompany a lady to the izakaya and lend your ear? Not that bad, if you ask me.

 

[mdchachi]

Getting paid to accompany a lady to the izakaya and lend your ear? Not that bad, if you ask me.

I'd do that for free (or free beer at least)!