Friendship Marriage: A Growing Trend in Japan
Amid a declining population, Japan is witnessing a surge in a new relationship phenomenon known as “friendship marriage.” This unique arrangement provides an alternative to traditional婚姻 and is based on shared values and interests. Couples in friendship marriages cohabitate as husband and wife but do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships.
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), friendship marriages offer several advantages. They allow individuals to present a “stable and mature” image to society and please their parents, who may pressure them to marry. Additionally, they provide a pathway for homosexuals to form legal partnerships, given that same-sex marriage is not recognized in Japan.
The trend is particularly gaining popularity among asexual individuals, who experience little to no sexual attraction. Friendship marriages provide them with companionship and a sense of community. Another common motivation is the desire to have children. In Japan, it remains challenging for single women to navigate motherhood, and friendship marriage offers a solution through artificial insemination.
While friendship marriages may not conform to traditional notions of romance, they fulfill a unique need in Japanese society. They offer companionship, stability, and the opportunity to start a family, addressing the challenges of a declining population and evolving societal norms.
