Walk through the busy streets of Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ni-chome or Osaka’s Doyama district on a weekend night, and you’ll see couples strolling hand in hand, laughing in cafés, or singing together in karaoke rooms. But not every couple you see is quite what it seems. In Japan’s growing world of “rental relationships,” some of those pairings are part of a fascinating industry — the rent-a-boyfriend service.
While these services were originally designed for women seeking companionship, Japan’s evolving LGBTQ+ culture has raised a new question: can gay men rent a boyfriend in Japan? The answer, like most things in Japan, lies somewhere between tradition, discretion, and quiet change.
What Are “Rent-a-Boyfriend” Services in Japan?
Rent a boyfriend services (彼氏レンタル / kareshi rental) allow customers to hire a male companion for a set time. These services usually include:
- Going on dates to restaurants, shopping, or karaoke.
- Attending weddings, work events, or family gatherings.
- Providing companionship without physical intimacy (strictly non-sexual for most services).
Prices typically range from ¥3,000–¥10,000 per hour ($20–$70 USD), depending on the service and the companion’s experience.
Why Rent a Boyfriend Exists in Japan
Modern Japan is defined by its work-centered lifestyle and social pressures around relationships. For many, dating feels like another job — time-consuming and emotionally draining.
Meanwhile, big cities like Tokyo and Osaka can be surprisingly lonely places, even with millions of people.
Rent-a-boyfriend services emerged to meet that emotional need. They allow customers, especially women to experience the comfort of companionship, even for a short while, without the complexities of romance or long-term commitment.
For others, these dates serve as practice for real relationships or a way to rebuild confidence after heartbreak.
And increasingly, Japan’s LGBTQ+ community is looking to this same model for their own companionship needs though options remain limited.
How Rent-a-Boyfriend Services Work
Booking a rental boyfriend in Japan is surprisingly straightforward. Most agencies operate online:
- Choose a companion – Browse profiles featuring photos, hobbies, and personality traits.
- Book a date – Select a time, meeting spot, and activity.
- Meet in public – Popular venues include cafés, shopping districts, or parks.
- Pay the fee – Most services charge per hour, plus extra for travel or meals.
Some agencies require membership or deposit fees, while others offer discounted packages for repeat clients.
Physical affection (like hand-holding or hugging) may be allowed only if mutually agreed upon — but sexual activity is strictly prohibited.
Are These Services Available for Gay Men?
Here’s where it gets tricky. Most mainstream rent-a-boyfriend companies cater to heterosexual women. However, in recent years, a few services and agencies in Tokyo and Osaka have become more inclusive, allowing gay men to rent male companions.
In LGBTQ-friendly districts like Shinjuku Ni-chome, you may find agencies or independent hosts who provide companionship specifically for men. Some services are openly marketed to gay clients, while others are more discreet and require direct inquiry.
Top Places to Rent a Boyfriend
While most rent-a-boyfriend agencies in Japan are designed for straight clients, a few in Tokyo have developed a reputation for being welcoming, professional, and discreet — with some quietly open to LGBTQ+ clients as well. These services emphasize companionship, good conversation, and social connection in a safe, non-physical setting.
Warm Relation
A long-established rent-a-boyfriend agency known for its approachable and respectful companions. The staff are praised for being attentive and conversational, making it a comfortable choice for locals and tourists alike. Some companions are open to LGBTQ+ bookings upon request.
- 💴 Price: Around ¥4,000/hour
- 🌐 Website: warm-relation.com
Cattleya Club
Cattleya Club is one of Tokyo’s most polished boyfriend rental agencies, offering a wide range of companions with various personalities — from cool and calm types to outgoing entertainers. Their website features detailed profiles, and the service is known for its confidentiality and professionalism.
- 💴 Price: ¥4,000–¥6,000/hour depending on companion
- 📍 Area: Tokyo (Shinjuku / Shibuya area)
- 🌐 Website: cattleya.club
Rent Kare Tokyo
A highly popular agency with strong online presence, Rent Kare Tokyo allows customers to browse companion profiles and book dates directly through their site. Their services are mostly geared toward women, but they have received positive reviews for flexibility and inclusivity.
- 💴 Price: Around ¥3,500–¥5,500/hour
- 📍 Area: Tokyo (multiple districts, including Shibuya and Ikebukuro)
- 🌐 Website: tokyo.rent-kare.net
Koikare (恋カレ / Tokyo)
Koikare — short for “Rental Boyfriend Koikare” — offers a soft, friendly experience ideal for customers who prefer a casual, relaxed vibe. The agency highlights communication, emotional support, and lighthearted companionship.
- 💴 Price: Around ¥3,000–¥4,500/hour
- 📍 Area: Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, and surrounding wards)
- 🌐 Website: koikare.jp
The Difference Between Host Clubs and Rent-a-Boyfriend Services
It’s important to note the difference between Japan’s host clubs and rent-a-boyfriend services:
- Host Clubs: Popular nightlife venues where male hosts entertain guests (often women, but some cater to gay men). Guests pay for drinks and time with a host.
- Rent-a-Boyfriend Services: Structured rentals where the terms are agreed upon in advance. Typically no alcohol, and the focus is on companionship.
For gay men, some host clubs in Shinjuku Ni-chome act as an alternative to traditional boyfriend rental services, offering companionship in a more social, nightlife setting.
What to Expect If You Try It
If you’re visiting Japan and want to experience a rent-a-boyfriend service — especially as a gay man — here’s what you can expect:
- Booking: Reserve online; most agencies confirm via email or LINE.
- Meetup: Always in public spaces for safety.
- Cost: Pay hourly, plus any date expenses (meals, tickets, etc.).
- Boundaries: No physical or sexual contact beyond what’s agreed upon.
- Etiquette: Be polite and keep the atmosphere relaxed — it’s about comfort, not romance.
For LGBTQ+ clients, communication and respect are key. Many agencies will accommodate you if approached discreetly and professionally.
Controversies and Criticism
Rent-a-boyfriend services have sparked debates in Japan — not for legality, but for what they represent.
Critics argue these services commercialize intimacy, turning affection into something transactional. Others see them as a reflection of deeper loneliness and emotional isolation in urban Japan.
There’s also concern about emotional dependency. Some clients book the same companion repeatedly, blurring the line between fantasy and reality. Agencies set firm rules to prevent misunderstandings, but it’s not always easy to separate feelings from business.
Still, supporters argue that these services provide genuine emotional relief — especially in a society where expressing vulnerability can feel taboo. For LGBTQ+ people, they may even offer rare spaces of comfort and acceptance.
FAQ
Can gay men rent a boyfriend in Japan?
Yes, but the options are limited. Most services target straight women, though some agencies in Tokyo and Osaka are LGBTQ-friendly, especially in Shinjuku Ni-chome.
Are rent-a-boyfriend services sexual in Japan?
No. These services are designed for companionship only, such as going on dates, attending events, or simply spending time together. Agencies clearly state that physical intimacy is not part of the arrangement.
What’s the difference between a host club and a rent-a-boyfriend service?
Host clubs are nightlife venues where you pay to drink and talk with male hosts, while rent-a-boyfriend services are pre-arranged rentals focused on companionship. Some gay host clubs in Ni-chome serve as alternatives for men seeking this kind of experience.
How much does it cost to rent a boyfriend in Japan?
Rates typically range from ¥3,000–¥10,000 per hour ($20–$70 USD), depending on the companion and the service.
Where can I find gay-friendly rent-a-boyfriend services?
Shinjuku Ni-chome in Tokyo is the best place to start. You can also check LGBTQ+ forums, apps, and English-friendly agencies that cater to international clients.
Can gay tourists in Japan use rent-a-boyfriend services?
Yes, though availability depends on the service. Some agencies are English-friendly and cater to international visitors, especially in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ni-chome district.
Is it safe to rent a boyfriend in Japan?
Generally yes. Legitimate services are regulated as entertainment businesses, and most emphasize safety, discretion, and clear boundaries. Always book through trusted agencies rather than unverified ads.
Do rent-a-boyfriend services in Japan allow physical affection?
Most agencies do not allow physical intimacy. Hand-holding or hugging may be permitted if agreed upon, but anything sexual is strictly off-limits.
Why are rent-a-boyfriend services popular in Japan?
Cultural factors like work stress, loneliness, and social expectations make rental services appealing. For LGBTQ+ clients, they can also provide a safe, non-judgmental space for companionship.
Are there website for renting a boyfriend in Japan?
Yes. Some Japanese rental services and host clubs are available through apps and websites, though many are in Japanese only. LGBTQ+ dating apps also sometimes include rental-style services.
What should I expect on a rent-a-boyfriend date?
Activities can include dining out, karaoke, shopping, attending events, or just walking together. The experience is about companionship and connection, not romance or sex.