No love, no problem: A surprising new friendship marriage trend is growing in Japan

Friendship marriages are emerging as a notable trend in Japan, where the total population decreased for the 15th consecutive year in 2023. The population fell by more than half a million people due to aging and low birth rates. Additionally, the number of marriages dropped below 500,000 for the first time since the 1930s. This unconventional marriage arrangement allows partners to live together as spouses while pursuing separate romantic relationships.

What Are Friendship Marriages?

Friendship marriages focus on companionship rather than romance. As per experts, friendship marriages are not about marrying best friend or being driven by romantic love; instead, they focus on sharing life with a partner who has similar values and interests. Participants share responsibilities and can decide whether to have children, potentially using methods like artificial insemination or IVF.

Since 2015, nearly 500 such unions have been orgained as friendship marriages in Japan. The average participant is 32.5 years old, well-educated, and financially stable.

Reasons for the Trend

Friendship marriages are particularly appealing to asexual individuals and homosexuals, as same-sex marriages are not yet legal in Japan. These arrangements also offer tax and health insurance benefits, as married couples can enjoy spousal tax deductions. Moreover, they help alleviate societal pressures.

A report indicated that 37,227 individuals living alone died in their homes in the first half of 2024, highlighting the loneliness many face. Friendship marriages can provide companionship and financial partnership while reducing isolation.