Mama Katsu

Many young men involved in Mama Katsu are university students or those working in Tokyo's "host club" industry who need extra financial support. Conversations and dates often take place in cafes or restaurants, with the young men receiving "pocket money" for their companionship.

Interestingly, not all participants are driven by desperation. For some, Mama Katsu is a form of lifestyle hacking. It allows them to experience high-end dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, stay in luxury hotels, and attend events they could not otherwise afford. In this sense, the date is seen as an entertainment activity where the entry fee is paid by the man, and the woman provides the ambiance. Mama Katsu