The state of singledom

There were 16.7 million single men and 13.2 million single women in 2005. Japan has a population of 128 million.

Who play Cupid?

Parents, relatives, bosses or marriage agencies: Their introductions result in "arranged" marriages, which are declining in number. Since 2000, just over 6 per cent of all marital unions are arranged marriages.

Singles parties: Some of these parties are open only to men from a certain profession or sector such as doctors or employees of blue-chip companies.

Others involve an activity, such as cooking, which helps break the ice.

Local governments: These authorities organise events such as "marriage seminars", which are followed by parties, with the help of dating agencies.

When boy meets girl

In a meeting arranged by a marriage agency, the prospective couple first meet at the agency's office in the presence of an "adviser". They can then go for coffee or a meal to talk and size each other up.

For a more traditional "omiai", the prospective couple typically meet at a Japanese restaurant accompanied by their mothers and perhaps the matchmaker.

After introductions and perhaps a meal, the couple are left alone to chat.

Power of attraction

What the men look for in a woman (in order of importance): Love; character; understanding of one's own work; attitude towards housework and child-raising; and appearance.

What the women look for in a man (in order of importance): Character; love; health; work capability; attitude towards housework and child-raising.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Aug 23, 2008.