Japan faces falling birthrates and an increasing number of singles, leading some to believe that the country’s young people have turned their backs on love. A new study from Tinder Japan investigates this claim, and analyses how Gen Z is dating differently.
Understanding the challenge
In collaboration with the New Standard think tank, Tinder Japan compiled some statistics about the country’s dating culture. It found that attitudes in Japan tend to be more passive and negative towards love when compared to other nations.
Additionally, the beliefs that marriage is mandatory and that romance is a priority, are both fading. Surveys found that Japanese individuals in their twenties are increasingly interested in pursuing hobbies rather than romantic relationships.
So is this the end of romance? Not exactly. Gen Z may not be dating in the same way as past generations, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the future is without redeeming features.
How Gen Z is dating differently
Tinder explored some unique trends among Gen Z around the world to find out more about the changing values, trends, and priorities among young daters.
Gen Z emphasised self-development as a key value moving forward. Embracing their own imperfections and being true to themselves from the beginning is a growing trend. This pairs together with a greater appreciation of ‘self-care’ and a preference for partners who care about mental wellness.
Additionally, Gen Z say they don’t want to waste time or play games, with 51% of Gen Z saying they’re looking for ways to fit dates into their daily schedules, often organising an in-person date within a few days of starting a conversation.
Kyo Cho, Tinder’s Country Manager for Japan, stated that the feelings among Gen Z globally are reflected among young people in Japan. She reiterated that the country’s young people are committed to self care and being their true selves when meeting new people.
Conclusion
The global dating app ultimately concluded that while Japan’s Gen Z may be more passive when it comes to love, that hesitation may be caused by greater understandings of well being and the desire to find healthy relationships.
