Top 3 Hobby Trends Among Young Japanese Men in 2024

As we enter 2024, many Japanese men are turning to new hobbies and challenges. This article ranks the hobbies and activities in which men in their 20s~30s are particularly interested. AZWAY Corporation, which operates the real estate media Happy Home Planning, conducted a survey of 577 men and women aged 20-60+ on what they would like to try in 2024. Based on the results of the survey, here are the top three things Japanese men in their 20s and 30s would like to challenge themselves with.

Popular Hobbies of Japanese Men

1. Side Jobs
2. Acquiring/Improving Skills
3. Physical Training and Fitness

1. Side Jobs

Side Jobs was ranked No. 1 in the ranking of men's hobbies. Having a second job has become even more important amid growing economic uncertainty due to high prices and the weak yen. In addition, as a result of the spread of reforms in the way people work, people are returning home earlier than before and have more free time on their hands. For some, taking up a new side job is a way to make use of this time.

In addition to financial freedom, a second job may give you skills, confidence and a new perspective. If you choose a side job with a well-defined purpose, it can increase your income, help you grow and change the way you work.

2. Acquiring/Improving Skills

Many men who work as company employees aim to advance their careers or start their own businesses to earn more money. Improving your skills creates more capacity within your work schedule, possibly leading to new opportunities and challenges. If you can prove your skills by gaining qualifications, it could help increase your salary.

4 Habits to Help Improve Your Skills

• Study for qualifications that will enable you to gain practical experience on the job.
• Read books and newspapers that are useful for your job and keep up to date with information.
• Participate in seminars and workshops to absorb new knowledge.
• Take up hobbies and gain inspiration and knowledge from outside the workplace.
• Continuing to make efforts to improve your skills will enhance the quality of your work.

3. Physical Training and Fitness

Many men engage in training and fitness to maintain their health and improve their physical fitness through going to the gym, home training and fitness classes. These activities are favoured by many men as a means of improving their fitness and muscle strength and leading a healthier lifestyle. Participating can also provide stress relief and refreshment, helping to balance the body and mind.

Conclusion

Hobbies and activities particularly popular among Japanese men in their 20s and 30s are side jobs, improving skills and fitness, in that order. Economic insecurity due to high prices and a weak yen, as well as an increase in the amount of time spent home due to reforms in the way people work, are thought to be influencing this trend. 

In addition, both men and women in their 20s and 30s in Japan in 2024 share side jobs and improving skills as common hobby trends, as well as a growing awareness of economic insecurity and career advancement, and a desire to pursue self-investment and growth (Top 3 Hobby Trends Among Young Japanese Women in 2024). 

Through these trends, we can understand that many Japanese men are seeking economic stability and career development, as well as maintaining health and a balance between body and mind, in order to lead more fulfilling lives.