Manga Kissa: Life in Japan’s Smallest Rooms | ASIAN BOSS

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Did you know that living in manga cafes is a thing in Japan? We talked to one of these “residents” to understand why this is happening and to see what their living conditions are like.
Special thanks to Hagi for sharing his story.
Twitter ► / hagi_1988
Hiroko (Host)
KZbin channel ► • Love Yourself 日本語 COVE...
Instagram ► / hirokotv
Yuya (Videographer)
Instagram ► / futamurayuya
Facebook ► / yuyafuphotographers
Our vision is to build a lasting grassroots movement of young people from every country to report on real social and cultural issues. We believe having meaningful discussions with people with different opinions is extremely important.
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Reach out to our founders, Stephen and Kei, directly if you have any questions, feedback or suggestions:
Stephen on Twitter ► / theasianboss
Stephen on Instagram ► / theasianboss
Kei on Instagram ► / asianbossk

[@AsianBoss]

If you consider yourself a true fan of Asian Boss, become a member of our community to join the cause: asianboss.io

[@nanwanwon95]

The fact that he booked a private room only for the interview is pure hospitality.

[@TyyTheFlyGuy]

Yeah he seems like a nice guy.

[@yagovich8473]

Imagine he didn't, they'd be in the booth whispering like 2 girls in a bathroom stall. They would have to title it as 'Interview ASMR'.

[@nanwanwon95]

@@yagovich8473 lol 😂😂😂

[@pcharl01]

I hear Japanese people are pretty hospitable and care for others' comfort, but that could just be a stereotype.

[@T25de]

Classy

[@bes03c]

I was expecting a sad story like the dude who lived in the PC cafe, but instead there was a guy living his best life.

[@gluntdaniel]

I know right.

[@paulhunter1525]

So true, this gentleman only used Magna as a convenient place because he has two hour commute everyday. He does have home with his parents.

[@IndigoZ0]

same situation diferent perspective and attitude

[@pinkkanpriyankamaharani4464]

Lol true

[@mannion7646]

Hahaha yes

[@roeimagz8202]

I think that this is a feel-good personal interview. The interviewer was good, she asked the right questions. The interviewee was polite and is a good listener. They both have good communication skills.

[@cameronvadnais4388]

They really did seem like they had good rapport. They were teasing each other at one point.

[@skylius]

@Lucky Demon Right? it was hilarious

[@egiputrak]

i love that the interviewer never being judgmental at what the interviewee is doing

[@thefinestgames]

Relax

[@armymoneyz3700]

Agree

[@Grandmaster_Sub-Zero]

I like this guy's swag. Seems very chill, humble, and positive. No shame in his game. He seems like he would make a good friend.

[@jasonmendoza2044]

Let’s find him

[@theholyoneofisrael.9550]

May have moved now.

[@Viriatoo123]

he seems like a really friendly human being.

[@auga3896]

In fact most of them are. Some Japanese people I know is very polite and always willing to help. You don't hear them saying negative things. Personally I would call Japan "best of Asia" for some reasons.

[@RamielLeung]

​@@auga3896 They hide their negative emotions so well that nobody would know the issues until something terrible happens. Source: me and my friends. Have been in similar situations. As well used to live in uber small "apartments" like 50sqft

[@auga3896]

@@RamielLeung well they at least show negativity and hatred to different races and beliefs unlike people in some other countries.

[@asit6947]

@@auga3896 are you stupid?

[@Miguelet-1]

@@auga3896 That's what they show but is not a reality...just a fake appearance, I bet Japan is the worst country when we talk about feelings.

[@japanlifestory]

UPDATE: Due to corona virus, they closed all the manga/internet cafes. So many of these people lost their homes. Supposedly, the government is giving them support to stay in hotels...

[@love_agapi_m3976]

Stephan Panton thanks for the update.

[@dashy9482]

Thanks. I hope they are doing okay

[@mvegas9552]

Stephan Panton they are giving out $1000 to everyone. Even kids

[@ripvanwinkle4532]

That’s sad.

[@nanamiharuka3269]

I haven't heard about the hotels. I saw they created cubicles like those in a hospital with curtains at large halls and such. And some are so poor they cant afford food and are surviving on donated sweets and canned coffee.

[@漫画喫茶はぎ]

Thank you for watching a lot! Comments and messages are also nice! I have a lot of questions, so I will do my best to return them!

[@joebug8984]

Hey dude. How is life?

[@nolls888]

Did you get infected with COVID? Did you move back into your parents home, to avoid COVID?

[@shiwanim_5991]

Hagi

[@Trisin-m3i]

what is up ?

[@madelinet8405]

今は元気ですか?

[@ding1466]

"Local man wins life by being happy" this is one of the few times where someone seems perfectly well and happy in a place like this. Usually you can kind of tell they have some sort of issue, but this guy is totally chilling like a Greek philosopher.

[@dilafd5743]

With a job in IT he could easily rent an apartment too. This might be one of the happiest people I've ever seen

[@KhronicD]

I can identify with this. I spent about a 3 and a half years being "homeless." I have a job where I have a company vehicle, so when my previous living situation became too much for me, I decided to just not even bother. I worked nights, then basically chilled/slept in my work vehicle during the day. I had a cheap gym membership pretty much just for access to showers and such. Every time I mentioned how I was living to other people, surprise and pity were the first reactions. Even my boss didn't understand how I could be content living in such a way. While I was technically homeless, I wasn't sleeping on the streets and eating from trash cans. Sometimes it's okay to not conform to societal norms if that's something you're not comfortable with. And frankly, I see those years as a real learning experience. It taught me so much about myself that I couldn't or wouldn't recognize before. So I don't have pity for this man. He is living his life the way he wants to, and doesn't consider himself "underprivileged" or whatever people might say about him. Kudos to him.

[@ToadstedCroaks]

@@KhronicD I don't know your work dynamic, but to be able to talk about this with your boss, and they didn't freak out about you living in the company vehicle, is pretty amazing to me.

[@KhronicD]

@@ToadstedCroaks NGL, I have a pretty awesome boss.

[@OjoRojo40]

Living in a phone booth ashamed to tell your friends, with people crying next to you while anxious of catching a virus. Indeed, he's living the dream.

[@enderlain]

The dude lives in a manga closet and he has his life more together than I do.

[@AlexanderMccarthey87]

that's because he's a freelancer. It's amazing.

[@m4lina0000]

SexFortress MANGA CLOSET

[@demetrius8184]

@viper LMAO you killed me dude

[@zeqi]

Agree. But the first step to change your life around is to change your Google account's username

[@josephinewinter]

ain't it just

[@moteq6598]

I thought I was gonna see a guy struggling at life. I was wrong. I see a perfectly fine man who is clearly enjoying his life.

[@HaPham-jn7jk]

well he's just a normal guy who chose to live there out of convenience so of course he would be happy

[@alex6677]

Well I think he’s trying to put on a brave face of normality, but his situation is far from normal, and I suspect sometimes he feels desperate and lonely

[@HaPham-jn7jk]

@@alex6677 nah he aint an actor, if he was truly depress it would be easy to catch on that he's acting. it;s not like he has no other option and this is his only place to stay. dont make assumption about others base on your preference, especially if ur culture/background is different. just because it's abnormal to u doesnt mean it's bad. if u tell someone years ago that ppl would be on their phones while hanging out they would think u r weird too.

[@TheJulietxo]

@@alex6677 People in "normal" situations feel desperate and lonely a lot of the times too. He seems just as happy if not more from what he has said. He wants to live life the way he wants and he's doing that. I don't think anyone is happy all of the time.

[@willn8664]

@@alex6677 not everybody is content with being an overweight unemployed 'Murrican' parent living at home with 7 kids while on welfare. This guy is saving a lot of money and planning to open his own manga kissas soon. Nothing wrong with that.

[@roguelove807]

Hiroko is one of the best interviewers ever. She acts like a friend asking questions, not an interrogator.

[@cheeromatic]

The guy is also very cool one i think, not many japanese person can say thing so openly and have such positive vibe like this one. Such positive mental attitude

[@taknaknak4957]

@@cheeromatic whoa, same thought bro.. the Japanese restrictions due to Honne & Tatemae culture are very bias usually

[@cheeromatic]

@@taknaknak4957 right? and as far as i can tell Asian Boss are nailing their interview because they can find these kind of people to interview, so props to them

[@mirkamiche6955]

She's nice and thick

[@Anonymous-zm3iw]

@@mirkamiche6955 and thick, wow, just wow.

[@Widestone001]

He is a wonderful example of a man knowing himself and his needs - and then finding a place which is optimal for him in every aspect.

[@ghostHizao]

The way he just casually laughs is just so pure. He seems very relaxed in this interview.

[@iamnotaweebiswear8940]

Yeah lol. He seems like the type of dude who would be very cool to hang out with. Seems really smart and passionate. With the last comment about wanting to build his own, that kinda would be cool as he gets to help others(which from this interview you can kinda tell he truly does) and also do what he loves.

[@sumayah7908]

My guess is that has something to do with Hiroko - I love watching her interview people no matter the topic lol she just has a magnificent way with people!

[@COVID--kf3tx]

People see this guy as sad, but I think he's actually in a pretty good spot. He has his dream to build his own manga kissa, he loves the place he lives and works, and is healthy overall. edit: cliche i know, but I did not expect this to blow up like this. wow.

[@drrameshshrink]

It is good as long as he wants to serve, and share with others his service. But if he wants to have a Manga kissa, how different is He? We donno his mind!

[@Xiiph3rL3x]

agree here, I personally didn't see alot of negatives with his lifestyle

[@drrameshshrink]

@@Xiiph3rL3x True my friend. If he is willing to sleep less to do more things, and wait for 1 - 1and half hrs to take shower alone, and can have a conversation with the Host who is a woman, so openly, about the call girl who wanted money (and that the host woman is comfortable and finds pleasure in just discussing it), then i have no other choice but to agree with you

[@Nevermorepicker]

IKR, if people feel happy and content, they are in the right way.

[@Rem694u2]

Yeah he looks like he's got his head on his shoulders. He loves how he lives and he clearly is very passionate about manga so he is living in a dream place where he can read as much manga as he wants and he can get to his work places easily.

[@teux01]

It takes a culture like Japan to make manga cafe's possible. A place like this in the US would be trashed, people would steal and destroy whatever they could.

[@justice929]

GOOD THOSE UNEMPLOYED GETTING UNEMPLOYMENT CHECKS THAT CAN'T AFFORD APPARTMENTS.

[@Imagineim]

@@Blanksteg Wonderful! Thanks for making this a race issue and not about the differences between the social and economic factors in the two counties. :)))

[@Imagineim]

@@noah_hill Japan in general have a more collectivist culture. I really do believe that the reason This manga Cafe wouldn't work in a lot of western countries is based on the mentality of society and not down to an individual race.

[@jacobmunden7720]

Wow, if there was ever a reason to never read KZbin comments, this comment thread is a prime example.

[@5StagesOfGrief_4thForm]

basically white men in foreign lands

[@With_Kris]

" Can two people fit?" "No, I think not" *Proceeds to try to fit two people*

[@skptc5171]

He said "normal booth" maybe that's not an average one

[@EliteCitrus]

yeah i think that one he was talking about was the one he was sitting in with the mask on, like a bathroom stall

[@mightjaazuz4348]

she wanted him to slay her, that was a lowkey flirt lool

[@apollo1573]

@@mightjaazuz4348 ummmm what?

[@ozzbud9049]

@@mightjaazuz4348Japanese don't have sex! Do some research.

[@auga3896]

Can we appreciate how Hiroko handles every interview in professional level and the guy also seems to be very well spoken and well mannered. Thank you Asian Boss bringing us great content!

[@azure5584]

You appreciate her literally every video, stop - everybody knows she's amazing.

[@poorboi8093]

he was so well mannered he booked a bigger both to film, that's class.

[@lukelim5094]

Like where did Asia boss find these nice and professional reporters. Wow

[@annieadelina3766]

Azure who hurt you

[@willn8664]

@@annieadelina3766 probably his step daddy when he was younger. Who knows?

[@Asher89leo]

He is just being productive and economical. He doesn't want to waste time commuting nor spend a lot of money for temporary accommodation(hotel, apartment or condominium) .

[@RandomNest]

Doesn't want spend a lot of money for temporary accommodation!?! The man has lived in a cubby hole for FIVE years sleeping in an upright position! Oh, but it's just temporary. Ay, ay, ay! 🙄

[@blocked2327]

@@RandomNest i mean think about the money he's saving up? i doubt he's gonna stay there forever lmao

[@Asher89leo]

@@RandomNest the key word is 'a lot'

[@RandomNest]

@@blocked2327 lol.. Yea, he'll probably only be there another 5 years.. 🤣

[@RandomNest]

@@Asher89leo He doesn't have to spend "a lot" of money at all.. He has a house.

[@gershom86]

He actually seems like a really nice person to be friends with.

[@adityarachmadi7647]

@Youre Gonna Need a Bigger Boat he's hardworker not a weeb with no live

[@paul-martintandetzki731]

Exactly the same thing I was thinking. Very positive guy.

[@paul-martintandetzki731]

@Youre Gonna Need a Bigger Boat you on shrooms mate?

[@gershom86]

@@paul-martintandetzki731 not to mention pretty funny too. Prolly a good drinking buddy at an Izakaya

[@paul-martintandetzki731]

@@gershom86 yeah I can imagine that cuz he was pretty open minded, really talk active and doesn't have a wife who's gonna complain when he's home late.

[@yagovich8473]

Western women: You're sleeping on the couch tonight. Japanese women: You're sleeping at the manga kissa tonight.

[@centripetal25]

Japanese men: I'm going to sleep at the manga kissa tonight :D

[@abdur1300]

imagine there is a manga kissa in United States. but instead of manga kissa, it's Playstation kissa. So we play Playstation 4 for free as long as we book the place for the whole day.. Even if u aint real gamer, you will end up liking the place.. Heaven for introvert or gamer.. But I wonder if it would turn up to become a place for illegal drug transactions or prostitution, because there is a cultural and mindset difference between Japan and US

[@vincemasillones1035]

Gladly

[@hachij_]

*sad noises

[@user-xh6ju3pg8c]

@@abdur1300 I think you have aan ambition for making something like that... Is that's why you are commenting this everywhere around the video good luck .....

[@TheMarcusKang]

"It's not a suitable lifestyle for everyone, but it's like a heaven to me" Cheers, I will drink to that bro

[@maxwellbrand]

yeah...he's basically already dead inside

[@Grazty]

@@maxwellbrand idk about that one most people are just comfortable with themselves and only themselves

[@abdur1300]

imagine there is a manga kissa in United States. but instead of manga kissa, it's Playstation kissa. So we play Playstation 4 for free as long as we book the place for the whole day.. Even if u aint real gamer, you will end up liking the place.. Heaven for introvert or gamer.. But I wonder if it would turn up to become a place for illegal drug transactions or prostitution, because there is a cultural and mindset difference between Japan and US

[@abdur1300]

@@maxwellbrand already dead? what a judgment man.. at least he aint a suicidal type..

[@elieoni-6213]

As a Programmer myself i have been insolated from other people for long time and find peace being alone and reading so i totally understand him.

[@EudoxiaMysteries]

idk why, but this guy looks like a succesful magician or artist.

[@goldendispensary525]

same hair as shim lim

[@4FYTfa8EjYHNXjChe8xs7xmC5pNEtz]

He is an artist, in a way.

[@fbi855]

Ikr

[@Ehhhaway]

Hair and outfit

[@TheRealSamPreece]

@Sahat A true artist.

[@thevioisme]

So interesting that it’s like a capsule “library” that allows for people to have their own space in a central part of town. All the best to this guy!

[@VotePaineJefferson]

Seems like a great place to jack it.

[@penniesnnickels]

@@VotePaineJefferson already one step ahead of you.

[@allblxck5079]

Say hi to COVID-19 for me, oh wait it’s here as well..

[@apink04]

Hiroko is the best reporter for Asian Boss. she can make the source feel comfortable during the interview. they are like two friends talking.

[@kaivianhines7890]

I could Comfortably procrastinate in there

[@MacNCheese1]

Bruh 😂

[@espinosaglennmark3422]

Hahaha

[@javeriahaq3228]

same 😂😂😂

[@combat2064]

Bruh, if we're talking about procrastination, I could comfortably procrastinate anywhere man

[@veronica3725]

@Al Castill it's still a good thing to know about

[@duchi882]

Japan is just full of surprises Just when you thought you knew Japan enough Asian Boss comes out with a topic which you never heard before!

[@cnordegren]

...and Hiroko is the possible person to cover such topics!

[@georgedrakopoulosesq.9471]

Yes Hiroko's surprise faces are hilarious

[@itscakeofficial]

So true!

[@jenislyjensen]

Javelin Melody America sucks... The worst part is a lot of Japanese still believe America is a great country🤦‍♀️😂 Too much rascim, discrimination, and the system suck, and the policeman is the worst... And no freedom anymore... I mean getting arrested just to eat in a subway...🤦‍♀️ and black people getting arrested for nothing lol. And they almost started WW3😂😂😂

[@cheezarose]

Actually,It's a very popular topic that has been in Japan related news since the 2008 recession.

[@chewy8591]

He is still in himself, unlike other living away from their homes. He just appreciate the comfortness of manga kissa. He know the advantages and disadvantages of living in manga kissa. He is still aware of his life. Good job Hagi san

[@cr3237]

He seems so respectful of the other people there, opening and closing the door as quietly as possible.

[@homeboy3640]

I clicked on this thinking I'll feel sorry for him, Now I feel sorry for myself...

[@panjisatriowibowo7843]

Me too, it happened to me... 😩I should feel sorry to myself.

[@nenkenshainnenkov8790]

Why should one person be sorry for somebody who lives just fine.

[@siennypoole4366]

Can relate bro :'(

[@itsmesteve1081]

😂😂😂😂😂😂 same

[@kuyapaps9785]

Dude looks content in his life

[@GodotOfficial]

In New York, that room would be advertised as a deluxe apartment

[@jeanblaaa]

Lmao

[@jennywu73]

Bwhahahaha

[@nofanfelani6924]

And someone will complained about that advertisement but the company will sue them instead.

[@TheJulietxo]

@@olzeitcorp2350 "Except Manhattan" sooo where's the lie? One, he's making a joke and two, it's so true that rent is extremely high in NYC. Housing costs are rising even outside of Manhattan

[@donovanabad4121]

Here in California, a room like this would probably cost around $1,500 a month.

[@cmac2295]

He mentioned that the staff cleans the shower after ever use is a rare thing in the US. I won't mind staying in one now

[@laken1804]

And we think, we're cleaner than everybody else.

[@scooby149999]

@@laken1804 ?? I've never heard someone say that US is cleaner than the rest of the world.

[@stochastic24]

It's temporary because of covid 19

[@YungReg88]

@@stochastic24 I agree. As soon as the pandemic is over, things will be right back to normal unfortunately. The good folks who work in the service industry have my sympathy.

[@czos9239]

A place like that would immediately get trashed in the US. Roaches, rats, trashed books, slopped dispensers, needles, and rotted carpet from dumped food. It would be a catastrophic biohazard.

[@domirican81]

Dude is spending his time wisely. He’s a boss doing what he wants in life. Traveling and seeing all parts of Japan and I’m sure the world are part of his thinking.

[@_WhiteW0lf_]

I think Japan is the best country for introverted people. They have a lot of stuff catered to people who wants to be alone or enjoy being by themselves.

[@grapeshott]

Or u can just read a manga using ur laptop in ur own house

[@vanessashoesmith6364]

Esesem ssm Sometimes you might need a change of scenery 😊

[@hajji384]

@@grapeshott what is manga. Is it like mango ? Do they have Internet ?

[@MALAY_TENGU]

@@grapeshott you have bad taste Online manga is pirate so stay away

[@fauzanadrian1593]

yes they are,i mean private space are big deal for them,which is the most important thing for introvert

[@Krokodilius]

so, if i understand this correctly: he traded train time for shower waiting time lol.

[@cameronvadnais4388]

It's different though. I'm sure he can relax while he's waiting for the shower. He probably gets more privacy too. Compared to the train. I get the joke though.

[@tropingreenhorn]

he gets to do stuff while he waits

[@NcKasha]

Nice one :D

[@SsukiMaru]

@@cameronvadnais4388 r/who-... Nvm..

[@kollegahsterin]

Im also pretty sure the manga kissa is cheaper than the train. Japanese people like to sugarcoat things saying it's "the time" when actually it's the money.

[@inbetween18]

It was so sweet of him to book that private room for the interview!

[@Zelectrocutica]

"Look at how my life has change." "I'm living proof that manga kissa can solve people's problems." Hagi - 2020

[@purplecleo]

As an American I was surprised to hear this fellow really likes this lifestyle and as they talked more I realized - it's like a live-in library. I totally get it now. I can see why this would be a lovely way to live

[@chunellemariavictoriaespan8752]

Thus my reaction was "OMG!!! My type of Heaven!" 😍😍

[@samanthavanscoder9536]

Id rather do this then live with my parents lol

[@icesilverwind]

It's probably cheaper too. Likely a great way to save up money while working in a city. With the goal of buying a place in the future. Also, manga and internet access. This is pretty good. Many Japanese business people don't cook at home anyway. And combini food is pretty healthy and cheap in Japan.

[@syaredzaashrafi1101]

@@puckered6036 u must be a weeb then

[@Sieg3465]

@@puckered6036 You say dogshit I say it looks fine to me. Perspective what a wonderful thing.

[@coldturkey5333]

The least awkward Japanese man I’ve ever seen

[@TheMegaPingasMobile]

Especially concidering where he lives. Honestly I thought this would be about some social outcast but nope, it's just a normal guy that lives in this because it's just more convenient and has another place to go to if needed.

[@victorortiz193]

Yes I thought the same thing, he is quite confident for the average japanese guy you see in videos XD.

[@sadlife8495]

he did seem really friendly and confident

[@GrandMasterPeep]

“Are you horny?” Hehehee

[@amanilili4364]

True And he's well educated and could actually afford a stable place but well he's young so I guess he wants to experience different things in life. But then again I doubt any socially awkward Person would accept this interview lmao

[@gelatin167]

Interviewer: Whats your Talent? Me : I can read comments and subtitles simultaneously in KZbin

[@Mecks089]

Double vision is not a Talent, nor a skill. More like a deformity.

[@willjohn1117]

I had to pause the video to read this comment

[@mattk6343]

But your vision is augmented, mr. Denton.

[@aldenu5295]

And at the same time listen to the Japanese they’re saying.

[@gelatin167]

......while writing notes in right hand and drawing with other.

[@AsianBoss]

Help us save Asian Boss ► www.gofundme.com/f/saveasianboss

[@salsanacho]

8:08 I just like how he respects his neighbors to quietly shut his door, even in a temporary accommodation like that there's still respect for others.

[@ceyill1267]

thats japan for you

[@joschmo4497]

What difference does it make that it's temporary? There are people around you.

[@higharenji]

I remember trying to close a hotel room door but a gust of wind blew the door shut so hard the noise could be heard within a 10 radius. I cringed so hard when another resident stopped to look at me.

[@cryptoinside8814]

Only in Japan...only in Japan....the rest of the world is all self-centric and no respect for others.....got to have the right culture and education when they are young.

[@mothmos]

this guy is in a good place, I've met people who are well off, depressed, dissatisfied, treats people not too well. This guy is good natured, seems mature, and content about where he's at

[@guze6799]

I thought this was an old video , since I watch something like this a few years ago , until they talk about Corona virus 😂😂😂

[@Maithrypappu]

haha same😂

[@naekita7539]

it’s his hairstyle isn’t it

[@ambalavanarsivasritharan2191]

It shows how long ago they made it under the video

[@lovemendoza7994]

Same thing... Because no one was wearing masks, i thought the interview was pre-Covid19

[@rinaabne1324]

Same

[@808Mark]

I love how positive this man is

[@akairohoshi1872]

"I don't tell anyone unless their close enough to go out drinking with" *Tells it anyone publicly on a large youtube channel*

[@shocktriple]

Subtle way to tell he is friendly I guess.

[@srinivassrinivas-lm2ze]

Hahahahahaha

[@anshikachaurasiya5237]

😂

[@ghafarfoladi9143]

Well it would be weird if he randomly goes to people he works with "hey I live in a manga kissa....just wanted you to know. Ok bye". I think he just keeps his personal life to himself which makes sense. If someone lived in a big house it would also be weird if he goes to people saying "I live in a big house" unless they're friends

[@OnePiece2k12fan]

@Music Account *cough* Vtubers *cough*

[@fallingbed1]

This inverviewer nails each interview without sounding rude or too intrusive, meanwhile In america: 🤬🤯👁👄👁

[@pankhayanpyar]

Lol, 2 hour no likes.

[@sohei7798]

Bro how come I see you everywhere?

[@clippersf]

The United States, America is not a country.

[@i2t290]

lol

[@kathykaura7219]

Even american congressmen insult each other all the time....like a bunch of chidren. Pitiful.

[@nibblesxsips]

He seems like a really nice person.

[@Johndoe-co3pw]

It’s interesting that some of these residents are very happy with these accommodations while others are deeply depressed over the situation. I guess it’s all a matter of perspective and attitude.

[@restuandriyanmaullana7567]

Yup all depends on ourselves are you always be Grumpy or be full energic man that see all the things in fositive way.Because when there's one thousands of problems there's Millions of way to solve it

[@vetiverose128]

Dude has a well paying job, that's why. Most of the residents who stay there are either unemployed or earn low wages and may worry about daily necessities.

[@derekcheung3069]

This is a great interview. Wasn't a negative spin or trying to be condescending. Nicely done to both interviewer and interviewee

[@brittanyw.9351]

Yep I just came from a video that was much more depressing. Nice to see the flip side on the topic, and this interviewer always does a fantastic job.

[@BoredInTheComments]

Except for when they threw in parents house in the captions lol

[@ofingrey]

"You horny???? Hiroko : What a wide world we live in.

[@golbinnom]

lmaooo

[@Beerinmyhand]

😂😂😂😂

[@laken1804]

Door to door salesmanship.

[@RaunakRoy96]

Not only is this world wide but round too.

[@theanonymouschicken169]

But the question is, DID HE TAKE IT???

[@ibelieveinyourgalaxy]

Living in a library where everyone is quiet and saving money, sounds good, shame it can’t happen in the U.K., where everyone would be loud on purpose and destroy things.

[@huck6453]

Right? I think the same would happen in Poland. What is wrong with europeans? Plenty of us don't respect public property since elementary school.

[@someguyfromanotherplanet5284]

Wow seems like its only Asians that respect public property.

[@vllng]

@@someguyfromanotherplanet5284 not all asians, some of them will be lous at midnight tho

[@cyberverse5687]

@@someguyfromanotherplanet5284 not all, but mostly it is.

[@Laperdash]

@@someguyfromanotherplanet5284 Narrow the words Asians down to Japanese and you're good.

[@user-ul5wq3kv4p]

When I lived in Japan, I used to like going to these places. It felt almost like an escape, totally quiet, relaxing. You can read all the manga, books or browse the internet w.e all day long. These days they have VR sets, that you can enjoy while you are there. And unlimited soft drinks. They even have shower rooms, if you want to take a shower. At the time I had a girlfriend, If we ever went there together we could get a special room called couple room. Everyone always respects the privacy of other people in the floor / room. So no one would ever yell, talk in loud voice, smoke etc. I visited Koreas Game cafe one time too on vacation. It was pretty similar, everyone was quiet and gaming away. If people in the west had this same mindset and able to respect one another, we could have something similar. Perhaps one day..

[@shigam8149]

how much do you pay in this things?

[@caleb_artzs2533]

Would you stay overnight?

[@user-ul5wq3kv4p]

@@shigam8149 Depends on the room type. Tatami style or a big sofa chair room. On average you are looking at 1200 Yen - 2000 yen for up to 8 hours? During the night, the prices are slightly jacked up but you get to the stay the whole night there until morning. The price includes everything from shower, drinks etc.

[@user-ul5wq3kv4p]

@@caleb_artzs2533 yes, its very safe and relaxing. If you ever get lost in Japan or on a tight budget, just sleep over at one of these places. Its actually really normal for some people.

[@shigam8149]

@@user-ul5wq3kv4p That is a very good price, especiallly for japan. Thanks for the information!

[@grazielafedelin8784]

I love how Japanese are so respectful of others, even whispering in an interview like this

[@rx-7veilside622]

Typical asian mostly like that....

[@cryptoinside8814]

Only in Japan...only in Japan...the only place on earth that's still respectful and considerate of others.

[@edcrfvtgbyhnujmikolpqazwsx]

He's so chill. I hope he builds a comfortable and beautiful manga kissa, based on his experience of living in so many for so long.

[@azuwaharis]

The way he thinks is just like an engineer. Practical.

[@kikimin7552]

That y he work as IT Engineer

[@robertshuxley]

just like your ex-Google techlead

[@signumxmagnum]

@@robertshuxley ex-Google ex-Facebook techlead

[@nope1083]

Listen buddy, im an engineer. I solve practical problems.

[@erebostd]

If he would think practically he would take the train, work during the commute and get paid for sitting in the train. AND he wouldn't need to rent that shoebox every night..

[@RogueAmarice]

Love it. I expected a sort of sad story about someone trying hard to escape the stigma of being homeless. I found a success story instead, of someone applying modern solutions to modern problems (which, as others have pointed out, probably couldn't exist outside of Japan). Kudos to Hagi-san for being in control of his life.

[@heisenbergyo5578]

Bed, manga, coffee, shower, internet couldn't ask for more .

[@SweetUniverse]

Bed? Did I miss something? There's just a chair and a desk in there, right?

[@robertmerritt3504]

How bout peace and quiet lol I'll make a bed

[@heisenbergyo5578]

@@SweetUniverse if two people were sitting on it we don't call it a chair

[@GameControlYT]

Count me in too. My mom doesn't even cook for us now.

[@engnder]

Makes for a great all nighter, if only I could read Japanese lol

[@_APV_]

Too bad she didn't ask how he sleeps there, and how much the different rooms cost.

[@weivu]

A. P. V. Same! Lets get a Part 2!

[@joemarrafal2371]

Yeah, been waiting on that too.

[@Lucky19ann]

How do you fart? No ceiling

[@DriveupLife22]

Well the sleeping is easy. Close eyes from exhaustion after reading manga.

[@mayaozen487]

I'm sure in the suitcase he has a sleeping bag and a pillow. The price maybe so cheap that is the reason he's been there 5 yrs.

[@geoffmcgowan]

"You look like a tourist" says the woman with a MASSIVE ninja turtle shell backpack.

[@DialthebarSoap]

Ninja turtle shell. Lol

[@akayrk]

thats her recording gear...

[@williamyou2356]

Lmao, she is a tourist. she only came to interview that boy

[@doremonnobita124]

hahahhaa...

[@honestabe5153]

Recording gear

[@higharenji]

They greeted each other 3 times within ten seconds. That's a lot of respect.

[@earthshuman3864]

To be honest I also can live there as long as there is internet and food

[@meharsamba]

And not read manga ?

[@espinosaglennmark3422]

Not all people read manga. Most are gamers, and, watched hentai with headphones.

[@grape1829]

The computers there generally suck.

[@cnordegren]

@@grape1829 It doesn't matter as long as you have your own devices

[@myenamjonie124]

Same and..get a monthly paycheck from gov for not going to work..sound like heaven to me.

[@yootoobsamantha]

When he talked deeply about people being depressed at manga kissas, I was just like, "What if they are just reading a sad part in a manga?"

[@StudioArtFX]

😂 🤣😂 🤣

[@lailadzarbas3946]

Same~

[@poorboi8093]

same, many anime/manga can make you cry easily.

[@ADeeSHUPA]

uP

[@willn8664]

Those people should stop reading Gantz then.

[@VikasKumar-pm4nd]

The conversation they had in that small room was amazing.

[@darthbike189]

this guy is very positive. having spent 200 days a year in a shared place and limited space still keeping him sane. it's all about how we perceive things in life I guess.

[@rain3333]

It killed me when he cracked up while saying 'are you horny? '

[@inas_cuisine]

He look so cute I know 😔

[@gustinex]

Hiroko is so hardworking to grind out all these japan stories, hopefully she gets a celebration or a nice gesture from the team soon

[@simpsbelongtothegulags3702]

The "loneliest" people are the friendliest and the most nice bc they want to be treated the way they treat you

[@bimirabu]

Have truer words been spoken? 🤔

[@reapanomin899]

I think I might be in that camp(as in,group of people).I'm an absolute introvert,and more often than not,I'm the most silent in class.

[@libertyschultz9807]

@@reapanomin899 I hope you're doing okay

[@reapanomin899]

@@libertyschultz9807 I'm doing just fine.Thank you for asking:)

[@sponge260]

@@reapanomin899 same, but get me talking about something I'm passionate about and I can ramble for hours.

[@guillll]

Weirdly, she didn't ask the most obvious question : how does he sleep? I don't see a bed in these booths.

[@Al-fm8kh]

On the chair obviously

[@TheShrededward]

They usually have a futon sized cushion right about where they are sitting.

[@sorae42]

who say you can't sleep on a chair?

[@yinglo3270]

My only thought the whole time lol

[@atom_gray]

in america we call it 'the floor'.

[@detubo]

Alone doesn’t mean lonely. Keeping to yourself is not selfish, being needy is.

[@naht_aivel8088]

This guy is actually one of the coolest japanese interviewees i have seen

[@imfaiz4747]

you’re right xD, some people would just go with an answer “yes” or “no” when being asked haha

[@ok_listen]

He's living in a hole working on codes and reading in the meantime and doesn't even have glasses, while if i don't look out of the window every x time i basically risk blindness.

[@jcs7698]

😆 😆 😆

[@LastBastion]

Contact lenses exist tho

[@paulhunter1525]

I agreed for a place devoted to reading or work stations lighting was extremely low. As for windows it's in heart of Toyko. Surrounded by tall buildings

[@chill4660]

😂

[@Dhaos620]

It seemed really awkward when Hiroko stayed shoulder to shoulder with that guy in the booth, whispering and talking about prostitution lol

[@espinosaglennmark3422]

Wondered how the cameraman filmed ang edited this...

[@htmoh8115]

She was excited. She even knew the question asked. Did she ask for 900 usd 😂

[@ScienceDiscoverer]

@@espinosaglennmark3422 there was no cameraman there, they placed camera on the table

[@vanessativa2418]

It didn't though

[@nofanfelani6924]

She seems to enjoyed their conversation about prostitution.

[@FoNgThOnG]

My dudes all happy living in a tiny booth and I'm over here depressed in a house that's paid off lol

[@Rem694u2]

He has less problems to deal with. Sometimes the more you have the more problems you have.

[@imikimi2009]

Lol. He doesn't have to do basic house chores and errands and stuff at home, me jealous! :(

[@awakenthegreatnesswithin]

Your problem may be negative thoughts. Be positive

[@djay00009]

Your stupid bro . Humans sometimes dont value what they have . I would like to have a house of my own .

[@djay00009]

@@Rem694u2 I would rather have more problems than have less money or be lonely -_- . Problems are good , it just pushes us humans to have a solution

[@kabamaru_Iga_No]

Yeah, he recommends living there. Dude, if I farted in there the whole place would collapse 😁

[@shrutinarkhede4669]

Damn 😂

[@elexiacozy4413]

Hahahhahahahha fuckinhell mate

[@tipdub]

Hahahaha

[@rictawheels88]

Guilty 😂😂

[@cassandradiaz7651]

...the honesty 😂😂

[@nanangtriono6340]

The interviewer missed the most important question, like... What's your favorite manga ?

[@Ladykittycookie]

He sounds like a well mannered anime character from the 80's... Love it.

[@jiameiwang9741]

i don’t know why but i found the part during the interview where they were whispering during in the booth so cute

[@hongkonger3807]

Plot Twist: Hagi is the owner of this Manga Kissa! ADVERTISEMENTS

[@iremiabliss]

That's what i thought haha

[@kimturner1963]

This is his "heaven." He has found a niche that works for him and has a positive attitude

[@AbsoluteMiniacGena]

31 years old and has been staying there 5 years... he is a happy geek!

[@wifebeater69]

@@sulsur4151 well, its okay because there is a low chance they will start a family.

[@djay00009]

@@wifebeater69 lol reducing the population I see

[@willn8664]

@@djay00009 nothing wrong with that. This world needs some type of population control. Fortunately, the Corona virus is putting in some work.

[@cnordegren]

This guy is very practical and makes the most use of his time unlike many of us who would waste data and time watching youtube videos mindlessly.

[@simonshura9144]

dont forget to add strangling our meat scepter every night atleast once LMAO

[@cnordegren]

@@simonshura9144 That's why technology tends to advance quite fast

[@37thraven]

I don't say this lightly, Asian Boss is hands-down top 3 youtube channels for unexaggerated unbiased, interviewee-led social commentary. I'm very critical of artificial youtube personas, influencer bias, etc. and I barely subscribe to anything, even when I like it. But so far, I've enjoyed 95% of the Asian Boss content I've seen. You guys are the definition of quality non-broadcast reporting 👍

[@ghosty1185]

I really like Hiroko. She's how an interviewer should act.

[@peanutmansemporiumofrandom7472]

@ghosty she’s an independent journalist. If she worked for a corporation, she’d be a complete and disingenuous tool only seeking an interview to use the footage the way she saw fit to get ahead even if it meant hurting the interviewee.

[@jamestatad888]

"So do you tell your friends or colleagues from work that you live here?" "No, I don't tell anyone unless they're close enough to go out drinking with." Now they know where do you live.

[@PaulHung77]

we're all living in our own Manga Kissa at the moment...

[@notchedbandit]

No... Some people own large property that look like a town.

[@TheZephile]

@@notchedbandit i have a relative that owns a huge portion of a land.

[@37thraven]

+100 points for the user name, oh wise and lethal samurai

[@patricemarie2960]

Interesting theory! .... I kind of agree!

[@emswonkenoon9104]

Without manga

[@kitbobit2415]

I see him reading Jujutsu Kaisen, I click

[@RaanaGolzar]

Fax

[@harshvardhanjha4611]

These videos are like small stories, short films, giving same experiences that good movies do, great job.👍

[@kellybelly1004]

Whoa....i thought he was going to say he had been living there for a year or so (which is still a long time) but 5 years??? I also understand not wanting the stress of traveling during rush hour. When I had to commute to college, the worst part was being in traffic so I used to get up at 5am to go to my 8am class. It would take me 30 minutes without the traffic (2+ hours with traffic) so I would get to school, park and take a nap until class started.

[@espinosaglennmark3422]

I can relate when I was in high school... I have to leave home at 6:30am for myb8am class. I arrived at school by 6:45am. If I leave home by 7am I am late due to traffic jam.

[@Dhaos620]

I did something like that back when I was in music school. I used to travel by train, but then I got permission to arrive a little bit late when I managed to get a ride from my uncle who worked somewhere about, so it took me only 30 minutes by car to get there. I could sleep more bc of that

[@jiasouls]

same, I wake up at 5h20am to be at college by 8am and when I get home all I wanna do is sleep

[@mambojumbo1145]

Are you live in Jakarta? sounds so +62 for me😅

[@bennybouken]

I'm a university student here in Osaka. My travel time would take around 2 hours so to get to my 8:30am class, I have to be out the house by 6 am. Now I don't have to do that because I have my own motorcycle now and I can go as late as 6:45 AM or 7 AM

[@cheshireerlinberts5806]

The whispering was somewhat intimate😂

[@MonMon-vy8cb]

Then he ask, 'Are you horny? Lmao

[@ferry6700]

We don't know the uncut version this interview ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

[@lane4778]

Haha

[@nurfajarfadzlulkarim8983]

Talking about h**ny topics in a tight room 😏

[@aidanjanemcintosh6919]

and they were talking about sex to boot

[@everythingsalright1121]

It's interesting to see someone advocating for this kind of lifestyle. However, I think he feels OK about living in a non-private booth because he has a home he goes back to every weekend; he lives there for the work week solely because it cuts his commute time by a good chunk. Others who are far less fortunate and dont have a home to return to every 4-5 days definitely don't enjoy this kind of life style. I'd be rather interested to see if his opinion would change if he stayed there year-round.

[@main_tak_becus6689]

I think this happens in big cities everywhere. The rising cost of properties hits young people hard. Even the price of properties increase in rural areas.

[@jonanderson4474]

His "home" is his parents home. Basically he's visiting his parents on the weekend. It's not like he has a house in the burbs. Just slummin the week or somethin. His humbleness may have you confused.

[@chunellemariavictoriaespan8752]

He has already lived there for 5 years, remember? I wonder why nobody pointed the last part out, like stated at the first part already then "I wonder if his opinion will change in a year"... Nee, Nani?

[@captainla95]

Dude loves that place so much he would like to build his own in the future. That right there is life goals

[@themore-you-know]

This is the slightly more positive version of a super depressive mini-documentary called: "Lost in manboo", interviewing residents of a cyber-café. There was a super lonely webmaster living on peanuts, and an even lonelier 23yo escort that was just happy to have lived past 18yo (and now being lost without expectations out of life). I'll never forget that woman's dark world. It went something like: "I like the booth, because although I'm always alone, I feel like there's others with me because the ceiling is open." That was so sad.

[@djay00009]

Loneliness is sad indeed

[@AtomSimbol]

Loneliness is a state of mind. You can still feel alone surrounded by a billion+ humans and billion+ animals 😁

[@kadalijo2806]

Yea, and the girl's life story and the interview conducted can trigger someone who is depressed to commit suicide. Its very sad.

[@CloverZero]

I watched that years ago and I still remember even now. It struck me that deep for me to still remember. There are various people in life with various backgrounds. Not everyone is happy and not everyone is sad...it's nice to see different sides of people living in manga cafes.

[@thaibanfi8821]

are there any similar videos? i want to watch them

[@irfanmuammar8547]

Love how this guy seems to be so positive and worry-free I want his Energy.

[@lisahoughton3262]

Reading Manga all day is literally a dream of mines peace and quiet and some food will keep me happy.

[@Eunicee_]

is it me or this man and the interviewer has that chemistry?

[@shinutokoro]

I thought so too! So cute and considerate together

[@pisangraja8711]

And then merrid😂😂😂

[@abdur1300]

just my wild imagination, Im thinking about her sitting on his face.. it is amazing

[@samo6401]

@@abdur1300 bro 💀💀 you took this up from 15 to 100

[@kris7877]

He gave me really good vibes even through a computer screen. He seems really in tune with those around him and I LOVE it.

[@MrSayonara88]

sounds like a great place for introverts!!!

[@cheef825]

only if u like cig smoke lol

[@Ghues]

I don't know ... just the mere fact that it's a cabin without proper walls would make me feel stressed (at least if I planned to sleep there).

[@djay00009]

It's too small though . I would like a mansion if only I had money m I'm introvert too ,

[@maverickmadison7392]

@@cheef825 they have a separate room for smoking, you are not allow to smoke inside your cabin/room/bathroom/washroom

[@schwester6523]

Im introvert but have claustrophobia

[@ReasonableRadio]

DAMN I didn't expect to come out of this feeling so inspired. Rooting for him, and totally relating to making sacrifices to go for the things you really need like time and access to work. Commute time is a big predictor in long term poverty!

[@VektorHaus]

Fast forward to today, and I’m wondering how this living situation worked out for him with the pandemic.

[@beater_y363]

He probably went to his parents home...during this pandemic:lockdowns

[@Kain1805]

Yeah he stated in some thread here that he had to go home due to the virus