In Japan, it's totally different. Most men are much to shy to approach females. At the bar they often huddle together, too gentle to break off from the herd and venture out alone. Afraid of being eaten alive, I presume. Anywho, this dearth of male attention, combined with the hectic and often erratic work schedules of many Japanese men has allowed for the rise of a niche industry.
Something unique to the Asian world: hostess clubs. Originally for men who wanted to feel alpha for the night, a hostess club is a "bar" they can go to to pay outrageous prices for "drinks" where outrageously beautiful women are guaranteed (lit.: employed) to find them the funniest and most attractive guy in town. There he can be a king among men, charming, handsome, hilarious, genius, all at the paltry expense of his dignity. The women serve him drinks, dance, sing, entertain, look cute, anything short of nudity.
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| Oh wow, Mr. Businessman, you're so funny!! |
Catering to females, there are also host clubs available. This is where the lonely or just-broken-up-with female can go to be surrounded by "beautiful" "men" often wearing more makeup and hairspray than they do. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure they're very charming and fun to be around. For example:
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| You can't make this shit up. |
No really. People pay for this. Although prostitution is technically illegal, in order to assure repeat business, that's commonly what ends up happening.
In order to better understand this phenomenon, a friend and I headed down to Kabukichou, the notorious "after hours" district in Tokyo. And sure enough, men and women sleazed about, hawking their business, dressed like rock stars and fashion divas. To draw in new customers, we were treated with such beautiful phrases such as:
Please on time apple!
My "poom" is delicious. (man points to his crotch)
Is penis good?
and my favorite
Hey Britney Spears!
Yes, that's verbatim! Tempting offer, but no thanks, buddy.
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| Great Success! |
