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Japan is famous for its unique “people rental” culture from Rent an Uncle to Rental Japanese.
Many foreign visitors wonder: are these experiences open to tourists, and which one offers the best way to connect with locals?
In this article, you’ll learn how each works, what kind of experience you can expect, and which one is actually worth trying during your trip.
What Is “Rent an Uncle” in Japan?
The Concept Behind “Oji-san Rental”
“Rent an Uncle” or Oji-san Rental started around 2012 in Japan.
Middle-aged men, usually in their 40s–60s, offer their time for simple companionship: chatting over coffee, listening to worries, or giving life advice.
CNN：“Middle-aged men for rent in Japan“.
Why It Exists
Japan faces social challenges like loneliness, overwork, and limited emotional outlets. “Rent an Uncle” emerged as a response, a safe way to connect and be heard.
→Common Requests
・Having lunch or tea together
・Asking for career or relationship advice
・Getting a “fatherly” opinion or support
Limitation for Tourists
While interesting, “Rent an Uncle” is not designed for travelers.
Most “uncles” don’t speak English.
The experience is conversational, not cultural.
It’s better understood as a social phenomenon than a tourist activity.
What Is “RENTAL JAPANESE”?
A Service for Foreign Tourists
Unlike “Rent an Uncle,” Rental Japanese is built for foreign travelers.
It lets you rent a Japanese local,man or woman who joins your journey, translates, explains culture, and shows you hidden spots only locals know.
Think of it as renting a guide like your local friend.
What You Can Do
・Bar hopping in Shinjuku or Asakusa
・Visiting local onsen or tattoo-friendly bathhouses
・Visiting countryside with private car
・Exploring shrines or traditional neighborhoods
・Cultural assistance (ordering, navigating, etiquette)
Ossan rental can be a fun cultural concept,
but it’s not always designed for international travelers.
If you want clear communication, flexibility, and a more natural local experience, there’s another option.
Key Differences Between the Two
| Aspect | Rental Uncle | RENTAL JAPANESE |
|---|---|---|
| Main Users | Japanese locals | Foreign travelers |
| Purpose | Conversation, life advice | Culture, travel, translation |
| Language Support | Mostly Japanese only | English, multilingual |
| Ideal For | Domestic connection | Tourists seeking local experience |
Which Experience Suits Travelers Best?
“Rent an Uncle” offers an interesting look into Japanese life, but it’s mostly for locals and not easy for tourists to join.
If you want to explore Japan comfortably and connect with locals, RENTAL JAPANESE is the perfect fit.
It’s friendly, cultural, and flexible like traveling with a local friend.
Final Summary
Rent an Uncle and Rental Japanese both belong to Japan’s unique “people-rental” culture, but the purpose and experience are very different.
The former is more about life advice and support based on age or personal experience.
The latter is designed for travelers who want to enjoy deeper local experiences with a friendly Japanese companion, more like a personalized concierge for sightseeing.
If what you need during your trip is someone safe, flexible, and easy to communicate with, Rental Japanese is a much better fit.
You can customize your experience however you like city walks, izakaya hopping, hot springs, nightlife, photography support, and more depending on your travel style.
If you like the idea of ossan rental
but want clearer communication and more flexibility,
Rental Japanese may be a better fit.
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Founder of Rental Japanese / Tokyo-based
Guided 500+ guests from more than 30 countries.
Specializes in customized private tours, local bar hopping, onsen experiences, and flexible Tokyo day trips with English support.
All information in this article is based on real on-the-ground guiding experience in Tokyo.