Table for One

[SwordsMaster]

I think we're deviating from the OP. The issue here is that 'they're not looking'.

IMO, the incentive to legalise unions has been removed. For the men, it is the expensive divorces, expensive housing (which in many parts of the world men are still expected to provide for the family), other various threats to 'masculinity' which derive from women becoming more powerful, yes, the free availability of porn, and Japan being the land of karoshi, the ridiculous work schedules which don't leave a lot of time for a social life.

For the women, it is likely the fear of being stuck like their mothers/grandmothers, as well as many of the factors that affect men.

There is this worrying trend of social isolation, due to complete lack of personal space. People are trapped in their heads because they are constantly surrounded by other people, and I think in a way it is a reaction to that. I mean if my parents continued monitoring me every day for the past 10 years, I would probably have deep issues too. (Although arguably be much more accomplished at my job... and saved a ton of money)

Contemplate too that social isolation is a major reason for suicide in Japan too, so in a way it is a vicious circle, with societal expectations, 21st century TV lifestyle allure, and people's own insecurities coming into play. Before the advent of internet porn, always available, people would have to go out and socialise to fulfill sexual irges. Which would inevitably lead to more coupling.

Also, don't forget this part of the article: No point in speculating over the whys when they are provided...

Some cited a shortage of money, others a belief that it is impossible to find a good partner once they had passed the age of 25.
Many of the women also said single life suited them better than how they imagined marriage would be.
The survey also found that more than quarter of unmarried men and women between 35 and 39 years old said they had never had sex.