Earned Rs 69 lakh a year doing absolutely nothing: Meet 41-year-old Shojo Morimoto, Japan’s ‘do nothing’ entrepreneur

At 41, Shoji Morimoto has turned an ironic twist of fate into a thriving career.After being fired from his previous job in 2018 for lack of initiative, Morimoto has found success as a “do-nothing-for-hire” company catering to those looking for non-romantic companionship in Japan, according to CNBC. in the report.

In 2023 alone, Morimoto’s impeccable profession earned him roughly $80,000 (approx. ₹ 69 lakh), showcasing a unique solution for individuals who want company without the pressure of conversation or activity. His services are surprisingly versatile, catering to requests that vary from attending events to assisting customers with routine tasks.

Among his various roles, Morimoto’s tasks include:

– Greet marathon runners from the finish line

– Participating in video calls while clients remodel their living spaces

– Attending concerts on behalf of clients who cannot make it, allowing friends to enjoy events without feeling alone

Morimoto prides himself on his simple approach. she fulfills clients’ requests with minimal intervention, setting one clear boundary: no sexual services are offered.

Referring to his experiences, Morimoto shared: “I’ve faced objectively difficult situations, like standing in line in the sun or attending parties full of strangers.” Despite the challenges, she enjoys the unique situations her job presents. – he noted.

One of Morimoto’s standout experiences included a 17-hour journey on Tokyo’s Yamanote line, making thirteen turns from dawn to the last train.He also often listens to customers in difficult moments, providing an empathetic presence without judgment or unsolicited advice.

Operating on a fee-for-service model, Morimoto receives about 1,000 inquiries a year, allowing clients to decide their payment.In the past, he charged ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 ($65 to $195) for a 2- to 3-hour session, and his flexibility has helped. to his appeal.

“Although I don’t know if this model is sustainable, I’m having fun exploring it,” he said.

People leasing services in Japan.

Japan boasts a thriving rental services industry where individuals can hire companions for various social roles. Although official statistics are scarce, the country is known for offering services that provide temporary relationships, from family support to friends for social events.

Loneliness isn’t the only reason to seek companionship, experts say. Some individuals may simply crave companionship, while others may struggle with social interactions.