Unusual things you can rent in Japan
Japan is known for its rich culture, wild innovations, and sometimes, its rather unusual services. We’ve already seen their vending machines dish out everything from crunchy bug snacks to cakes in cans, but the country takes “you can rent anything” to a whole new level. Whether it’s hiring a family member or renting a doggo for a few hours, here are some of the quirkiest things you can rent in Japan.
The current exchange rate is ¥100= ~S$0.89 as of 6th March 2025.
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1. Middle-aged man
AKA “ossan for hire”
For those who just need some wise advice, a fatherly figure, or simply a seasoned adult to listen to you without judgement, you can literally rent a middle-aged man – known as an “ossan.” These men, typically in their 40s or 50s, are here to provide life guidance, casual conversation, or just a calming presence.
Image credit: Screenshot via Mudan
Some people book them for mentorship, while others just want company for activities like fishing, golfing, or a peaceful walk in the park.
Plus, renting an ossan is as easy as online shopping. Just browse their profiles on the ossan rental website, check out their location and vibes, and book your temporary father figure. Rates start at just ¥1,000/hour, which is probably cheaper than unpacking your issues in therapy.
2. Apology service
Hire a pro to say “sorry” for you
Image credit: maroke via iStock
Messed up big time but can’t face the confrontation? Apology professionals in Japan will say “sorry” on your behalf. Whether it’s for a workplace blunder, a missed deadline, or even ghosting your ex, these professionals ensure your apology sounds as sincere as possible – even if you’re not.
Starting from ¥10,000, agencies like AigaPro can send an apology via email or phone call on your behalf. But if your mistake is big enough to warrant a face-to-face grovelling session, that will set you back ¥25,000 or more, depending on location and duration.
Bonus: if your blunder comes with potential legal drama, they even offer legal assistance – because sometimes, “I’m sorry” just isn’t enough.
3. A furry friend
In case you miss your furbaby at home or don’t have one
Image credit: もう一度食べたい旨グルメ via Google Maps
Whether you’ve always dreamed of having a dog or simply miss your pupper at home, places like Dog Heart in Tokyo have got you covered. Here, you can rent an adorable pup, from tiny toy poodles to fluffy golden retrievers from ¥3,600/hour.
Before heading out with your temporary four-legged companion, you’ll have to sign a waiver – no “accidentally” keeping the dog. The staff will also hand you doggy supplies like water and poop bags so you’re all set for a wholesome park stroll or a relaxed cafe hangout. It’s all the joy of having a dog – without the 7am wake-up calls or chewed-up furniture.
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4. Hugging & cuddling services
Because everyone needs a little warmth
At “Soineya” cuddle cafes, you can rent someone just to cuddle and nap with. It’s not like the vibe at a love hotel in Japan, there’s no funny business here – just pure, comforting human warmth for those who need a bit of relaxation and emotional support.
Image credit: Freepik
This is perfect for anyone feeling a little lonely or stressed, offering a safe and platonic way to get some much-needed human comfort. Some places even offer customisable cuddle sessions, allowing you to choose your preferred sleeping position and level of interaction.
A short 20-minute co-sleeping session costs ¥3,000, while additional services like a 3-minute back-patting session are available at ¥1,000.
5. Handsome men to wipe your tears
Live out a rom-com scene
Image credit: Ikemenso
Known as the “handsome weeping boys,” this unique service in Japan by Ikemeso’s Home Crying Service lets you live out a fantasy straight out of a J-drama – a charming man wiping your tears after an emotional moment. Whether you’re going through a breakup, missing home on a solo trip, or just need a good cry, these men are there to lend a shoulder, literally.
But they’re not just there to silently pat your back. If you prefer, they can watch some sad shows with you and cry along for that next-level shared emotional release – some say it’s therapeutic. A session costs ¥5,670 but prices are negotiable – because emotional labour, apparently, comes with flexible rates.
6. Rental boyfriend or girlfriend
Love is temporary, but the photos last forever
Image credit: Freepik
For as little as ¥3,000, you’ll get to experience the thrill of romance without any long-term commitment by hiring a rental boyfriend or girlfriend all over Japan. Plenty of websites offer this service, with transparent pricing and even options for English-speaking dates, making it easy to find your ideal temporary partner. Expect picture-perfect dates, complete with hand-holding, deep conversations, and even romantic photo ops – all on your own terms.
While these dates remain strictly platonic, they are a hit with singles, the heartbroken, or anyone curious about dating a certified attractive person. And since these rental partners are trained to create an authentic and meaningful experience, for a few hours, it might just feel like the real thing.
Rent a BF or GF from Rent-Kano or Boyfriend Rental Nationwide.
7. Complaint listener
When you just need to rant
Image credit: miodrag ignjatovic via iStock
Even on holiday, sometimes all you need is a listening ear and a safe space to vent. Companies like Family Romance offer just that for ¥12,000/3 hours. Complaint listeners will patiently hear out your frustrations, whether it’s about work stress, relationship woes, or just a bad day. Unlike talking to a friend who might give unsolicited advice or get distracted, these listeners are fully dedicated to letting you express yourself without judgment.
Some even throw in empathetic responses or lighthearted banter to make the conversation feel more engaging. Whether you’re upset about going back to work or just need to vent about your roommate’s snoring, your rented rant buddy is there to help you let it all out.
8. A family or friend
Hire a stand-in loved one for any occasion
Yes, you can literally rent a family in Japan. Some people rent a father figure for special occasions, while others hire an entire family to relive nostalgic childhood moments. Also offered by Family Romance, choose to rent professional actors at ¥20,000/pax who will play the role of your chosen family member for 4 hours, helping you keep up appearances at events or fulfil emotional needs.
Image credit: Freepik
When a solo trip starts to feel lonely, get yourself a rental friend for ¥12,000/3 hours to tag along for a fun day out, like going to the gym, catching a concert, or even just chatting over coffee. And for a solid karaoke sesh, rent a friend who can actually sing for ¥8,000/3 hours.
– Bonus –
9. Resignation service
Let someone else handle the awkwardness for you
Image credit: Sitthiphong via iStock
In Japan, job loyalty and workplace formality can make resigning a stressful experience. That’s why resignation agencies exist – to handle the awkward parts for workers. Resignation professionals at Momuri can be hired for ¥12,000 to quit part-time jobs and ¥22,000 for full-time and contract jobs. These professionals will inform the employer, manage any necessary paperwork, and ensure a smooth exit, making sure it’s a stress-free experience for anyone. Basically, they do all the hard stuff so you don’t have to.
While this service is mainly catered to locals who find quitting especially daunting, it’s still pretty wild to think that you can outsource your resignation entirely. Imagine never having to stress over the perfect “I’m leaving” email or rehearsing your HR exit speech. Instead, just pay a fee, and let someone else do the dirty work for you.
Try out an unusual rental on your next trip to Japan
Japan never fails to surprise with its one-of-a-kind rental services. So if you’re looking for a truly memorable experience on your trip, give one of these rentals a shot. Whether it’s for fun, comfort, or pure curiosity, it’ll definitely make for an interesting story to tell back home.
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Cover image adapted from: もう一度食べたい旨グルメ via Google Maps & Freepik