Japan's Dating Scene vs. The Price of Eggs

Apparently the biggest obstacle to getting married in Japan isn't your partner's debt, it's the price of konbini onigiri.

The New Final Boss is Inflation

A recent survey of over 600 single people in Japan (ages 25-34) asked what their biggest worry was about their financial future. The number one answer wasn't childcare costs or buying a tiny apartment. It was just… general inflation.

Over 54% of people said their biggest fear is simply dealing with the rising cost of everything. I guess that feeling of dread when you see the new price for your favorite pack of cheese at Gyomu Super is a universal romance killer. 🤔

It seems the dream of getting married is now being held hostage by the price of eggs and electricity. So relatable it hurts.

Your Spreadsheet or Mine?

So what do people look for in a partner, financially? The survey revealed some very pragmatic, very Japanese expectations.

Men's top priorities for a female partner were someone who “doesn’t waste money” (57%) and “doesn’t splurge on brand-name goods” (33%). Basically, they want someone who understands the sacred value of a good deal.

Women, on the other hand, were looking for a man who “doesn’t gamble” (54%), “has no debt,” and “has a stable income” (both around 50%). It’s less about being rich and more about not being a financial liability. The bar is on the floor, but it’s a very sturdy, risk-averse floor.

Romance isn't dead, it just requires a full financial disclosure form before the second date.

How We’ll Split the Bills

It's no surprise that nearly 80% of respondents said they expect to have a dual-income household. The idea of one person earning for the whole family is fading fast.

But the most interesting part is how they want to manage the money. The winner wasn't