A Leisurely Courtship Dance

Rushing into romance is about as common as finding a four-leaf clover—pretty rare! Couples cherish a slower, more deliberate path to love. This leisurely courtship often includes group dates, known as “goukon,” where friends meet up for a relaxed night out, making the dating scene feel more like a friendly hangout than a high-pressure solo date.

These slow-burn romances bloom in cozy cafes, serene parks, or during laid-back movie nights. It’s uniquely Japanese—think less ‘swipe right’ frenzy and more ‘let’s grow together’ vibe. Many couples take their time to progress in their relationships, sometimes waiting months before calling it official.