ROSE + JAPAN

What is Pairs? Pairs (ペアーズ) is one of Japan’s most popular dating apps. Unlike swiping-based apps like Tinder or Bumble that often focus on casual hookups, Pairs is designed for people looking for long-term, serious relationships. It has over 10 million photo I.D'd users in Japan, which makes the dating pool quite large—even if you live outside of Tokyo or Osaka. It's free for women to use , including sending messages. Men, on the other hand, must pay a monthly fee to send and read unlimited messages. Because men have to pay to send unlimited messages, it helps reduce trolling, bots, casual pickup attempts, or people with bad intentions just "trying their luck." This creates a slightly more serious and respectful environment than free-for-all apps like Tinder. The social perception of dating apps is shifting. While Tinder and Bumbl are seen more as casual apps, Pairs is marketed and used for those seeking serious long-term relationships and marriage. According to a 2024 survey conducted by the Children and Families Agency, 25.1% of married individuals under the age of 40 met their spouse through dating apps, surpassing traditional methods such as workplace introductions (20.5%) and school connections (9.9%) . This trend is particularly pronounced among younger generations. For instance, a survey highlighted that 24% of couples in their 20s met their marriage partner through a dating app, making it one of the most popular methods for this age group. How to Use Pairs as a Woman The app is entirely in Japanese, but if you open the website version in Google Chrome, you can easily auto-translate it to English (or your native language) and get through most of the process. Once you sign up, you’ll be asked to: Fill out your profile Select interests/communities Choose what kind of relationship you’re looking for Upload photos Take your time with this part—the more thoughtfully you fill out your profile, the more likely you are to match with someone who’s genuinely compatible. If you’re not a Japanese speaker , consider writing your bio in both Japanese and your native language, or just in Japanese if you're short on space. You can use tools like ChatGPT or DeepL to help with translation. Just make sure to note that you used a translator and clearly state your actual Japanese level. You don’t want to accidentally mislead matches into thinking you're near-fluent if you're not. Including Japanese in your profile helps bridge the gap and shows you're willing to put effort into cross-cultural relationships, while also making it easier to communicate with serious potential matches. Once your profile is complete, you can browse freely through other users using detailed filters to narrow down your search. You can filter by location, relationship goals, age range, hobbies and interests—even income. Use Plus Size “Communities” to Tell People About You Pairs has a unique “Community” feature where users can join groups that reflect their interests, values, or identity. These communities are displayed right on your profile and help you connect with like-minded people. The most popular and broad interests include things like gourmet food, cafes, music genres, pachinko (gambling), hiking, and camping. The more niche the interest, the fewer people will appear in your matches—but if it’s something you genuinely connect with, you should include it in your profile. In the image above are searches using the term デブ ( debu : fat) and ぽっちゃり ( Potchari : chubby) which leads to dozens of popular communities that you can join. Having some of these communities on your profile will help match you with people who are interested in your body type, or will let everyone in general know your body type/preferences. Useful Search Terms To Find Plus Size Communities You can use these terms to find general or specific groups for Plus Size people on Pairs. English Japanese English Japanese Fat デブ Chubby ぽっちゃり I'm fat but... デブですけどい... Fat girls &... おデブ女子&お... Sorry, I'm fat... デブでごめんな... Chubby Girls... ぽっちゃり女子... Even though I'm chubby... ぽっちゃりでも... Fat girls... デブの女の子が... Chubby Glamour... ぽっちゃりグラ... Men who like fat... デブが好きな男性 Tips for Plus-Size Foreign Women Using Pairs Join Plus-Size Friendly Communities There are communities for people who are interested in dating plus-size partners, as well as for plus-size people themselves. Adding these to your profile filters your matches naturally—people in these communities are attracted to plus size people, or are plus size themselves (depending on the group). Consider Joining Communities Focused on Language, Travel, or Your Home Country You’ll find many people in these groups who have spent time abroad, are serious about studying languages, or are curious about other countries and cultures. Be Patient Finding love in a foreign land takes time and effort. Being foreign, plus size and potentially not speaking the same language narrows your dating pool. You will likely need to talk to multiple people, make time to go on many introduction "dates", and sift through your matches to find the right person for you. Avoid Being Catfished - And Avoid Catfishing It's quite common on Japanese dating apps for people to post overly-filtered pictures of themselves, put stickers over faces or to just post random images to stay anonymous. If you do wish to follow that trend, it wouldn't be out of place. If you do want to share your image (face and/or body) try to be honest about your irl appearance. If you're worried about being catfished (it happens) pay close attention to how filtered an image is and if he looks similar in all photos. While bots, cults and trading/crypto accounts are rarer on Pairs, it still happens. If a profile looks too good to be true (really attractive man, posts a high salary but relatively vague bio, uses multiple handsome face shots), reverse image search his profile pics and be weary if he brings up how exciting and easy his work is (and if he offers you the oppurtunity to join his 'company'/talks to you about investments etc.) Add Language Info If you don’t speak Japanese fluently, that’s okay. Include your language level in your bio and join communities like “English Speakers in Japan” or similar. This helps you match with people who are open-minded towards dating non-Japanese speakers and are willing to navigate the language barrier. Stay True to Your Standards Just because you're in Japan doesn’t mean you have to lower your standards or accept vague intentions. Be clear about the kind of relationship you’re looking for, your lifestyle, and your values. Ask yourself "If I met this man in my home country, would I date him?" If the answer is no, then move on. Be Prepared to Exchange LINEs (And Add the Auto-Translate App) LINE is the most commonly used communication app in Japan. People rarely exchange phone numbers—in fact, it's considered unusual for someone to ask for your number! Men have to pay a fee to continue using Pairs over time, so it’s natural for them to want to switch to LINE after chatting for a bit. If someone says they don’t have LINE or Instagram, that can be a red flag. Men can browse Pairs for free and send one initial message. If you receive just one message asking for your LINE, be cautious. If you don’t speak Japanese, you can add an auto-translate function to LINE to make communication easier. Just keep in mind that translations aren't always accurate—they’re about the same level as Google Translate. Be patient, avoid slang, and try to use clear, grammatically correct sentences when possible. To use the translation service, add the translate bot as a friend, then create a group chat with your match and the translation bot - After that, all messages sent in English and Japanese will be automatically translated! Beware of Matches with Bad Intentions Unfortunately, some men may only see your size or ethnicity as a curiosity, fetish, or conquest. For instance, many Japanese men have a fascination with large breasts, and some men might pursue anyone they think fits that mold. Others may overly fantasize about foreign women or larger body types. It can be hard to spot red flags, especially if there’s a language barrier, but trust your gut. If someone is pushing for intimacy early on or only talks about your body or nationality a suspicious amount, they may not be interested in you as a person . Getting Physical or Talking Inappropriately Early On In Japan, it’s not normal for a man to ask inappropriate questions, engage in dirty talk, or be aggressively sexual in early conversations (especially if you haven't even met in real life yet). The “courting” period before he confesses (asks you to be his girlfriend) is usually when you get to know each other, discuss your values, and decide whether to pursue a long-term relationship. There may be sexual tension, but the usual flow (general for Japanese couples) of a relationship doesn't usually include physical intimacy or inappropriate topics until the relationship is established. If you prefer men who are rather bold with their approach, or you tend to be more direct and want things to move quickly, just be aware of possible cultural differences of his/your actions and the dating culture here. Establish Boundaries on Talking About Your Weight, Dieting, and Off-hand Comments Physical appearance, diet, weight, and health are normal topics of conversation in Japan. It's not unusual for a partner to point out your poor eating habits, a slight weight gain or something about your appearance. If these types of comments make you uncomfortable, gently let your potential partner know ASAP, as they may be unaware they are being hurtful. "Are We Dating the Same Guy - Japan" These Facebook groups exist all over the world and are great if you have any doubts about the men you are meeting (cheating, problematic/bad behaviour, etc). The Japan version is fairly new but has many posts from women across the country helping each other. Beware of Married Men and Other Red Flags Compared to apps like Bumble and Tinder, Pairs has far fewer bots, fewer users seeking FWB arrangements, and—ideally—fewer married men. However, even though men must pay a fee to use Pairs, some still join looking for casual flings. Pairs is marketed for people seeking long-term relationships and marriage, but that doesn’t stop a determined few from using it for something else. You Can Be Sued for Dating a Married Man in Japan There’s a very real— and actionable— reason to avoid married men in Japan: if his spouse discovers the affair, she can sue both her husband and  you for emotional damages. Private investigators are a huge industry here, and thousands of these claims are filed each year. A suspicious spouse can hire an investigator to follow her husband, collect photo evidence, and build a legal case. For you, that could mean hefty fines and being dragged into a Japanese legal battle. Liability typically ranges from around ¥500,000 to ¥3,000,000 (approximately US $3,000–$20,000 or more) in compensation for emotional distress. Here’s a rough guide to how courts decide the amount: Short-term affair  (a few months, no divorce caused) → around 500,000 to 1,000,000 yen . Long-term affair  (years, clear betrayal, even if no divorce) → 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 yen . Affair that directly caused divorce  → 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 yen  or more. How Can You Know If A Man Is Married? Especially in the early stages, or the talking stages before you meet and start having dates in person, it can be difficult to determine if a man you met online is already in a relationship. As things progress, there are some red flags you can look out for. 🚩 He only contacts you during working hours  (10 AM–6 PM) and goes silent at night and on weekends. 🚩 He says he doesn't have LINE   🚩 He never shares personal information like his last name, the area he lives or his workplace 🚩 You never go to his apartment , even just to meet up before going out. He doesn't want you anywhere near his home and refuses to have dates in the local neighborhood 🚩 He refuses to travel with you during long holidays  (like Golden Week)—huge red flag because that’s when married men are expected to be with family. 🚩 He never spends the night with you 🚩 He only calls you by a nickname in public  (to avoid people overhearing your real name). 🚩 He’s very protective of his phone  (never leaves it unattended, always face-down, locked tightly) 🚩 He uses a “second phone”  (common in cheating cases, called 二股ケータイ futamata-keitai) 🚩 He refuses to introduce you to his friends or coworkers , even if you have been dating long-term No LGBTQ+ or Friend Options on Pairs A downside of the Pairs Dating App for some is the lack of LGBTQ+ and friend-finding options. Genders are limited to male and female, and if you select one, you will only be shown profiles of the other gender. Should You Try the Pairs Dating App? If you're in Japan and looking for a long-term partner, Pairs has one of the highest success rates of any dating app in the country. A recent report stated that 63.5% of users went on to establish a meaningful long-term relationship. As of 2025, the company reported over 20 million registered users in Japan. Bumble—and especially Tinder—remain popular, but they tend to focus more on short-term relationships, casual flings, or friendship. In the Facebook group Are We Dating the Same Guy? , most complaints and inquiries about men cheating or exhibiting bad behavior seem to stem from matches made on Bumble and Tinder. As a woman, you can use Pairs for free and take some comfort in knowing that, due to the paywall for men, there are far fewer bots and scammers. While no dating app is perfect, Pairs offers a wide range of filters and tools to help you connect with someone who genuinely appreciates you. Comparison of Popular Dating Apps In Japan App Name Users in Japan Intention English Option Pairs 20+ million Serious Browser Version can be translated Tapple 20+ million Serious/Casual (popular among 20s~30s) No Omiai 10+ million Serious No Tinder ~7 million Casual Yes Bumble >1 million Casual Yes The Pros and Cons of Pairs Pros ✅ Relationship-Focused : Designed for people looking for serious, long-term relationships. ✅ Large User Base : Over 20 million users in Japan means more potential matches. ✅ Free for Women : Women can use most features without paying, unlike some other apps. ✅ Fewer Scammers : Men must pay to message, which acts as a filter against bots and unserious users. ✅ Extensive Filters : Lets you search by lifestyle habits, income, education, body type, and more. ✅ Community Groups : Join interest-based communities to find people with shared values and hobbies. ✅ Mostly Japanese Users : Great for those seeking a local partner and immersion in Japanese culture. ✅ Language Options : The App is only available in Japanese, but you can use the site through your web browser, allowing you to auto-translate the site Cons ❌ Requires Facebook or Phone Verification : Some users dislike linking personal info to a dating app. ❌ Not Foreign-Focused : Most users are Japanese; if you don’t speak the language, it can be challenging. ❌ Limited Messaging Without Matching : You can’t freely message until both people like each other. ❌ App Interface Can Be Overwhelming : Lots of options and features may feel cluttered or confusing at first. ❌ Matching Can Be Slow : Because people are more selective, getting matches may take longer than on apps like Tinder. ❌ No LGBTQ+ Options : Genders are set to male or female only; you're automatically shown profiles of people of the opposite gender that you choose. If you're serious about finding love in Japan—especially as a foreign or plus-size woman who plans to live here long-term —Pairs is a great choice. With its large user base, relationship-focused design, and safety features, it's one of the most reliable platforms for building something meaningful. Whether you're new to dating apps or tired of the games on Tinder, Pairs is worth trying.

Stay fresh and fashionable this summer 2025 with the latest plus size Japanese fashion from Re-J, & Supure . This season’s collection includes breezy tops, flowy dresses, and lightweight bottoms—perfect for hot days and everyday wear in Japan. Shop sizes LL–4L in-store or online (within Japan only). Plus Size Summer 2025 Dresses For Humid Japanese Summers Soft, breathable, and effortlessly feminine—this summer’s plus size Japanese fashion features dresses in light shades like white, sky blue, and gentle greys. Flowing silhouettes and delicate details keep you cool and stylish all season long. Staff Outfits Plus Size Tops for Summer 2025 in Japan: Lightweight & Chic This year’s go-to plus size summer tops are simple, clean, and practical. Think crisp white fabrics, half sleeves, and ultra-lightweight materials that offer coverage without the heat—perfect for humid days in Japan. Staff Outfits Plus Size Bottoms for Summer 2025: Skirts with Texture & Style Textured fabrics and playful patterns take center stage in this season’s skirts. From soft florals to subtle geometrics, these plus size bottoms are ideal for mixing comfort and statement style in your summer 2025 wardrobe. Staff Outfits

Rakuten is one of Japan's largest online marketplaces, offering everything from electronics and groceries to niche fashion. But did you know it's also a great place to find trendy plus size clothing straight from Japanese brands? While navigating Rakuten can be intimidating for international shoppers, it's well worth the effort if you're looking for cute J-Fashion larger sizes. Because Rakuten is so popular in Japan, many retailers have a Rakuten shop in addition to their own website. A lot of plus size Japanese brands don't offer international shipping, but by using the Rakuten forwarding service, " Rakuten Global Express ", you can shop almost any brand. What is Rakuten Global Express Global Express is a package forwarding service. To use the service, please read this how-to on their website . Here is a summary of how it works: Sign up for Global Express (free) and receive a Japanese shipping address Shop on Rakuten for whatever you'd like When it's time to check out, input the Japanese shipping address and pay for the goods All of your items are shipped to the Rakuten Express warehouse, where they then ship that package to your actual address. You must then pay Global Express for the international shipping fees. Shipping fees vary and are generally based on the weight and size of the package. Popular Plus Size Japanese Fashion Brands on Rakuten Many of the brands listed in the RosePlusJapan plus size store directory can be found on Rakuten! Always check an item's size chart (generally listed in cm). Dear My Love Whip Dear My Love Whip (ディアマイラブホイップ) is a Japanese fashion brand under the umbrella of DreamV, specializing in plus-size clothing that embraces the sweet and whimsical aesthetics of Japanese subcultures. Available in sizes 3L-5L (occasionally 6L). Clette Everyday fashion, elevated. Clette offers clothing in sizes LL-4L, in styles perfect for daily wear or special events. GEVS (sold by Nissen SmileLand ) The latest trends in Japanese streetwear, GEVS is a fashion-forward brand with clothing available in sizes up to 10L . Marun (sold by Nissen SmileLand ) Marun's collections are trendy and sweet, with dreamy pastals, lace, and frills. Available in sizes up to 10L . Like many Japanese size-inclusive brands, Marun does not use plus size models, so please check item descriptions for sizing. Other Plus Size Japanese Brands and Stores You Can Find on Rakuten Japan A Happy Marilyn : 2L- 10L ACDC Rag : Up to 5L/6L Gold Japan : LL-10L Re-J & Supure : LL-4L You can even find beautiful plus size Yukata and Kimono! Shipping, Customs, and Cost Tips Combine items  to save on shipping costs, especially with lightweight accessories or clothing. Watch for sales : Rakuten regularly hosts campaigns that offer point-back rewards or free shipping. Check customs limits  for your country to avoid unexpected fees. Check what items you can and can't import : Some products, such as certain electronics, food items, beauty and health items from Japan cannot be shipped abroad/aren't permitted in some countries. Be sure that you know what all of the import rules are for your country before purchasing any items. You technically will be able to order and pay for the items using the Global Express service, since it is a Japanese address - However, they may not be able to ship your items to you. Almost all clothing items are permitted to be imported/exported (although some countries tax genuine leather higher than other materials). Why It’s Worth It Finding fashionable plus size clothing in Japan isn't always easy, but Rakuten opens up a world of options. Many of these items are unique to the Japanese market and reflect the creativity and attention to detail that Japanese fashion is known for. Happy shopping!

"Today's Woman Japan Plus Size Beauty Contest 2025" stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment. Scheduled for October 19, 2025, at Asakusabashi Hulic Hall in Tokyo , this contest offers a platform for plus-size women to showcase their confidence, individuality, and beauty.​ Redefining Beauty Standards Organized by Smiles and Thanks Inc., the contest welcomes women aged 18 and above, regardless of nationality, marital status, or clothing size. It features two categories:​ Sophisticated Class : Women aged 18–39 Elegant Class : Women aged 40 and above​ This structure ensures that women across different age groups have the opportunity to participate and shine. What is "Today's Woman"? The contest is guided by the "DISCO" philosophy, emphasizing:​ Diversity : Celebrating varied backgrounds and experiences Independence : Encouraging self-reliance and personal growth Smiles : Promoting joy and positivity Confidence : Building self-assurance Opportunities : Creating avenues for self-expression and recognition​ This framework aims to challenge traditional beauty norms and foster a more inclusive society. “Today’s Woman” is someone who treats herself with kindness, uplifts others, and brings new possibilities into the world. She embraces who she is, looks ahead with hope, and celebrates her own worth. Unlike traditional beauty pageants, this contest isn’t about comparison or conforming to a certain style. It’s not about pretending to be someone else or seeking external validation. Instead, it offers a safe and supportive space for participants to express their true selves, surrounded by people who understand and respect them. The Founder of Today's Woman Japan Plus Size Beauty Contest Steven A. Haynes, who also serves as the Executive Producer and CEO of Smiles and Thanks K.K is the founder of this beauty contest. Originally from San Francisco, Haynes is a renowned figure in the beauty pageant industry, having produced several international beauty queens, including Ikumi Yoshimatsu (Miss International) and Haruna Ai (Miss International Queen). In 2020, he produced the documentary film "You Decide," which focuses on transgender themes. The film won the Best Documentary award at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival, marking the first time a Japanese film received this honor, as well as other awards at four international film festivals. The Japanese title is "Musume na Joshi ni Naru" and is available on various major streaming services. A Step Towards Inclusivity The "Today's Woman Japan Plus Size Beauty Contest 2025" is more than just a beauty pageant; it's a movement towards embracing diversity and redefining societal standards. By providing a platform for plus-size women to express themselves authentically, the contest fosters a community that values inner beauty and self-love.​

Damage From Humidity Humidity and room moisture are two of the biggest causes for clothing damage. If you store your clothing tightly packed in a closed closet or fabric storage box, you're putting your wardrobe at risk for mold and discoloration. This can be an easy mistake to make for those of us who have never dealt with long periods of humidity or moisture in our apartments. If you’ve been blessed with a closet large enough to hang or store clothes, be careful that moisture doesn’t accumulate in the closed-off space. The excess moisture will leave your clothes smelly and musky. It can turn your white clothes a discolored yellow, or worse, become a home for Kabi. Kabi mold is common in closets and other closed-off spaces, especially in the summer months in Japan. My first summer in Japan, I didn’t notice the Kabi in the back corner spreading into my fabric storage bins (RIP winter wardrobe). To prevent this: Use products specifically designed to absorb moisture in closets. These containers are filled with silica beads that absorb excess moisture from the space, and they come in many lovely fragrances. One of the most popular items are the “Mizutori Zo-san” (水とりぞうさん) packs. You can find them in drugstores or have them delivered to you via Amazon Japan. You can find clothing deodorizers that hang in the closet. Leave your closet doors open frequently, and air out the space. If you live in a particularly humid area and don’t have great air circulation in your apartment, invest in a dehumidifier. Keep the floor of the closet somewhat clean and organized. Use plastic storage bins for all fabrics (and papers). Don’t store fabric or cardboard (boxes, books, bags, suitcases, clothing) directly on wood in your closet. Try to store your items in plastic bins when possible. You won't have a clothes dryer Unless you take your laundry to a public laundromat, you’re not going to be able to use a clothes dryer. Your apartment won’t come with one, there isn’t a place for one (no exhaust vents), and you won’t find many reasonably priced options in stores. Like most people, you will need to hang your laundry to dry. You’ll see clothes hanging out to dry on every apartment balcony and in most large windows. But what if you don’t have a balcony or your window space isn’t doing the trick? Clothes left inside to dry in moist apartments have a very distinct smell that you want to avoid. It’s musky, damp, and gives off basement vibes. Here’s what you can do: Buy laundry detergent that’s made specifically for indoor drying. These detergents use ingredients that prevent home smells from sticking to your cleaned clothes. If you have one, use the dryer fan in your shower room. Some apartments are equipped with a special fan in the shower and bath room that is used specifically for clothes drying. It sucks the moisture out of the room and dries your clothes. Invest in a dehumidifier. This is a reoccurring recommendation, especially if you’re in Japan long-term. Avoid hanging wet laundry indoors on rainy days if possible. Take advantage of any sunny space you can during daylight hours. A regular rotating fan or space heater (be careful!) can help clothes dry faster. The goal is to not have clothes remain damp for a long period of time. If you don’t have a rod inside or outside your room window, buy a clothes drying rack. Similarly, buy a smaller rack to hang your undergarments. Your washing machine is too small for large items Apartment-sized washers aren’t great for washing oversized items, like heavy winter jackets. Chances are there is a laundry mat or laundry service nearby (if you’re in a city) that has machines that can accommodate your larger items. It’s quite common to see people lined up every spring outside laundry service businesses with their winter coats and duvets. Most laundry services also offer dry cleaning, so that’s a plus for your delicate fabrics. Prevent mold in your washing machine: A washing machine is unfortunately a perfect breeding ground for mold, especially if you only run it a few times a month. No one wants a moldy washer, so use products to wash your washing machine! It’s very simple and will help keep your clothing clean. Storage Woes Depending on the age and size of your apartment, your storage space will vary. You may have a normal closet meant for hanging clothes, a futon closet (very deep), a narrow coat closet, or no closet at all. If you don't use a futon, the futon closet is great for hiding away your plastic storage bins. For folded clothes, get plastic dressers. Most home centers carry a large variety of sizes and colors. The plastic helps keep moisture out, which is objective #1. If you have a deep futon closet but don’t actually use it to store a futon, you can place a few plastic dressers in them. Throw some moisture-absorbing products in all of your plastic dresser drawers and plastic storage bins. These further help to prevent mold from growing all over your favorite items. If you need to hang clothes but have limited floor space, consider tension rods. These rods are a lifesaver and come in a variety of lengths. They’re easy to install and don’t damage your walls. You can place them inside closets, or across the whole room. If you have floor space, clothing racks are another good option if you have a lot of clothes to hang. The mistake a lot of people make is trying to create that ideal *minimalist aesthetic* in their Japanese apartment without taking into consideration how their new environment will impact their clothes and other fabrics. It’s quite common in normal Japanese homes and apartments for there to be some level of organized clutter and open face storage. Despite those infamous Japanese decor inspo pics, that's not how most people live. It's function over form. It doesn't mean your home can't be cute, but you may need to adjust to the idea that clothes hanging in a room are a semi-permanent part of your decor. Sure, it’s nice having a cozy, uncluttered, picture-perfect Japanese apartment to show off to friends back home - but not if it’s at the cost of smelling like a basement. And certainly not if it means having to throw out clothing that’s been discolored by mold.

If you're a figure collector, you've likely already know of the popular curvaceous character, Super Sonico—the bubbly, pink-haired icon who made her debut in 2006 as the official mascot for Nitroplus's annual music festival, Nitro Super Sonic. Created by Tsuji Santa, Sonico quickly captured fans' hearts with her adorable looks, curvy figure, and charm. She started as a simple festival mascot, but due to love from fans, she grew into a full-blown media franchise, starring in music videos, manga series, video games, and even her own anime. By the time SoniAni: Super Sonico The Animation  aired in early 2014, her popularity had soared, cementing her place as a beloved character in Japanese pop culture. Super Pochaco - The First Plus-Size Anime Character from Nitroplus Super Pochaco (Pocha being an abbreviated Japanese word meaning chubby or overweight) was the first plus-size character introduced alongside Sonico in 2014. To this day, she remains one of the few attractive anime characters to be made into a figure with plus-size measurements. Her plus-size features translate well from her official 2D art to her 3D figures. She has thicker arms and wrists, legs and knees. Her stomach looks soft, and she's often portrayed with a muffin top. After Sonico, Pochaco had the most official merch created for her character. While her popularity has decreased over the last 10 years, new figures and character goods continue to be released and sell out. While her exaggerated chest size is the focal point of her character design, she also features wide hips, a chubby waist (with muffin-top details), and thick legs. Thanks to her unique proportions, Super Pochaco developed a dedicated fan following, despite having a short-lived role in the anime series. Super Taruco – A More Realistic Plus-Size Character Super Taruco made a brief appearance in 2016, during the peak popularity of the Nitroplus franchise. Her body type stood out as something truly unique for the time. Unlike Super Pochaco, her chest was more proportional to her body, and her stomach was larger. Designed with a more realistic, plus-size body type, Super Taruco's body has more soft features and body details we haven't seen in other characters. In her official 2D images, has a much larger and softer stomach than both Pochaco and Sonico. You can see soft rolls on her upper stomach and a subtle hang to the lower stomach - Taruco was designed to be truly plus size. Even her knees have realistic characteristics for this body type. Unfortunately, unlike Sonico and Pochaco, Super Taruco never had any official painted figures produced. The only existing figure is a garage kit that is unpainted and unassembled, making it somewhat difficult to find—especially in a pre-painted state. While the garage kit figure was a step forward for plus-size anime character designs, many of the softer details on her stomach as seen in her drawn art are lost. The figure instead draws more focus to her wide hips, and while she is still plus size, it does deviate from her intended look.

Available in sizes up to 8L (Japan) or 5XL (US), these pieces are designed to fit comfortably and look amazing on every body. With unique designs and trendy styles you won’t find in local plus-size stores—and at prices that won’t break the bank—these sweatshirts are perfect for updating your wardrobe this season. Plus, enjoy fast shipping across Japan in just 1-2 weeks! New to Shein (Japan)? Use the RosePlusJapan Code in the Shein App for 25% off of your first order: SAZK9 "Los Angeles California" Green Sweatshirt | 3L-8L | ¥1,570 This vibrant green sweatshirt adds a bright pop of color and can be paired with gold or silver accessories. The color stays vibrant even after many washes. It is made of fleece that is warm and soft on the inside. After a few months of regular wear, some pilling may occur around the hips and other areas of friction. It is not a long-lasting sweater, but it is suitable for looking stylish through the winter months. "Brooklyn, New York" Black and Pink Hooded Sweatshirt   |  3L-7L | ¥1,500 Purple Graffiti Art Hooded Sweatshirt   |  3L-7L | ¥1,650 This graffiti-style art design is popular in certain fashion genres. In Japan, plus-size clothing in this style is difficult to find in plus size options, especially in sizes up to 7L. This sweatshirt is also thermal, with a thick lining to keep you warm. Black and White Happy Face Sweatshirt   |  3L-7L | ¥1,509 "Be Unique" Rainbow Barcode Hooded Sweatshirt  |  3L-7L | ¥1,570 This black hoodie features a rainbow-colored barcode design with the text "Be Unique," adding a bold and colorful touch to your wardrobe. Cartoon Print White Hooded Sweatshirt |  3L-7L | ¥1,537 Romwe Goth Mystic Snake Hooded Sweatshirt   |  4L-7L | ¥2,670 Fuzzy Zebra Colorblock Pullover Hoodie  |  4L-7L | ¥1,690 Note that the items linked are for Shein Japan and may not be available in other countries.

Located in Harajuku, ACDC RAG is offering punk rock statement pieces unlike anything else you've seen in plus size Japanese fashion. Each item has specific measurements listed in their website description, so be sure to check before you order (they ship internationally), or head to Harajuku to browse the shop and see what catches your eye. From their website: "ACDC RAG started out in the streets of Harajuku in the 1980s. Our brand concept is 'No Borders', as no matter where you're from, your gender or your age, there are no rules on how to wear our clothes. We are aiming to create a world where there is no borders and you can wear any clothes that you love." Gloomy Collaboration Part 2 Gloomy Bear is back. Available in 3 themes ( Pastel, Dark or Vivid ), the Gloomy collaboration is one of the more robust and popular collections on the site. Part 1 did so well that they brought it back for round 2, and seeing how well this collection is doing I'm sure we will be seeing a Part 3 in the future. Shop ACDCxGloomy Collaboration Part 2 here Bunny Doll Collection Available in pastel pink or black, this line features a new character, the bunny doll. While the print and overall design are definitely cute, it's the character details that make them stand out. Best of all? All the Bunny Doll items pair perfectly with the Gloomy Bear pieces. Shop the Bunny Doll Collection here Decorative Collection If bright colors and funky prints are more your style, check out the Decorative Collection. Shop the Decora Collection here Poison Strawberry Collection The title of the collection says it all. This pattern features a darkened strawberry print that adds an edge to this whimsical fruit. Shop the Poison Strawberry Collection here ACDC Higanbana C ollection This line includes seven tops in different styles and cuts, and all featuring the lines' iconic print. Each piece in this line is priced at either ¥3,190, ¥4,290 or ¥6,050. Shop ACDC Higanbana Collection here Accessories & More Along with their clothing lines, ACDC RAG also carries accessories shoes and bags that stand out in a crowd. Just click the image to see the product details on the ACDC RAG website.

Dear My Love has released their April 2024 LookBook outfits. Dear My Love categorizes their collections by aesthetics and size. While the sister brand Whip typically carries plus sizes (4L-6L), other sister brands have started carrying a wider variety of sizes in some items. Dear My Love Whip - Look 1 Shirt, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 The combination of heart decals and off-the-shoulder lace detailing make this blouse a sweet statement piece. The high, choker-style neckline features a faux-pearl heart decal and has a keyhole opening at the back of the neck. The ruffled lace extends around the entire shirt along the décolletage and upper back. The front of the blouse has silver gemstone hearts and removable ribbons (attached with safety pins). The shirt is made of a soft stretchy material. Because of the material type, wearing an inner layer under the lighter color options is recommended. Skirt, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 This skirt matches seamlessly with the blouse, using similar heart gemstones to tie the outfit together. Small pearl decals adorn the front of the skirt, while the belted area is lined with lace. It’s a high waist design that flares out from the body at the hip. And it has pockets! Because of the attention to detail and high-waist design, it’s recommended to pair with a tucked-in blouse. Dear My Love Emily - Look 2 Emily Frill Dress, Sizes 4L-6L, ¥5,990 The Emily Frill Dress features tiered frill details on the skirt, as well as lace details around the neck and sleeve openings. On the front of the dress is a large removable bow and decorative heart buttons. On the cuffs of the dress, there are functional heart buttons and pretty lace trim. The entirety of the dress is lined; the skirt is lined with a delicate tulle for added movement and volume. And true to the brand - this dress has pockets. The dress is made with a firm material (non-stretch) and has a zipper on the back for closure. Check the product measurements to ensure a proper fit. Dear My Love does not have a storefront; Online shopping only. Ships within Japan (does not ship internationally unless a third-party shipping company is used). This post is not sponsored or affiliated with the retailer or brand. RosePlusJapan does not directly sell or receive any commission for promoting the items in this post. The RosePlusJapan lookbook is meant to showcase plus-size Japanese fashion. Links may become void if items are no longer available.

Living in Japan, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to affordable body and skincare. I love trying out new products, and these are the products I'm in love with now. I avoid products that use heavy scents (I always opt for scent free for skincare when I can), and always go for the best quality for the price. I get most of my products online, but you can also head to your nearest drugstore and find most of these on the shelf. Minon Amino Moist Charge Milk ミノン-アミノモイスト-モイストチャージ 3.5 oz (100 g), ¥1,800 Minon Amino Moist Charge Milk has been popular for years, and for good reason. It delivers just the right amount of moisture for the face, and because it's light weight and scent free, it's great for sensitive skin. I have combination skin that's prone to breakouts and this product has a permanent place in my skincare routine. NinoCure 第3類医薬品 ニノキュア 30g, ¥896 Before coming to Japan, I had no idea what those little dots on my upper arms and back of my thighs were. I had them since I was a teenager, and no matter how much moisturizer I slathered on they never went away. Seeing the NinoCure package on the shelf, I skeptically bought this product without any expectations. Needless to say, I was blown away. It's a small pot of scent free lotion that does exactly what it says it'll do. Those little dots, gone! I find this particularly useful in the winter months when my skin is extra dry and those little dots make their return. Cleansing Research AHA Facial Cleansing Wash クレンジングリサーチ-ウォッシュクレンジング ¥711 This facial cleanser is leaves my skin with that squaky clean feeling, without the tightness and dryness that some cleansers can leave. Cleansing Research has a great line of products but this one is my favorite. Made specifically for dry and sensitive skin, this is very gentle on my face and keeps my breakouts under control. House of Rose Sugar Body Scrub ボディ スムーザー - ハウスオブローゼ 12.8 oz (350 g), ¥1,650 I love a good body scrub! I avoid scrubs that use microplastics or rough materials (like seeds or ground apricot pits) that wreak havoc on my skin as well as the shower drain. House of Rose has a scrumptous line of sugar based body scrubs that get it right. My favorite scent is Green Lemon, and the balance of moisturizing ingredients and scrub make it easy to apply. After a light scrub, the moisturizing oils leave your skin feeling absolutely amazing. Cure Natural Aqua Gel - Exfoliator ¥2,500 Cure Natural Aqua Gel is one of the best-reviewed facial exfoliators in Japan. I need a more gentle exfoliation for my face (especially along my temple areas), and this gel hits the spot. It's oddly satisfying massaging this product in and feeling it work. I researched this product thoroughly before purchasing, and was not disappointed. It works so well, that I often find myself using it for my body in areas like my back and chest. It's more gentle than a sugar scrub, so if you have areas on your body that break out but still need some exfoliation TLC, this could be the answer.

Dear My Love is dedicated to subculture fashion in sizes up to 6L. Their collections feature unique pieces from various brands, and they ship internationally (great news if you're looking for Japanese fashion but aren't in Japan!) The Clothes Dear My Love carries many items and styles in their plus size section. Sweet items (pastels, lace, frills, bows) as well as slightly gothic items (black, white) make up the majority of their offerings. There are some "everyday" fashion items, but Dear My Love is known for the "traditional feminine" Japanese fashion look. Impressively, they have one of the largest collections of short dresses and skirts - items rather hard to come by in plus sizes. Unfortunately, if you're a visual shopper you may be turned off by the lack of plus size models on the website. Many of the items, even plus size, are displayed on smaller-sized models - so you will have to depend on the size chart (cm) and your imagination. The sister-brand " Dear My Love Whip " does use plus size models. To make shopping easier, Whip also includes the models size and measurements for most items, so you can have an idea of how it will fit on your body. The largest size available varies, but generally is up to 5L (majority of items), with a few items 6L+ If you can't read Japanese, I'd recommend using a translation application in your browser to read the website and shop with ease. You'll find useful information for each item in the description. I particularly like that they describe the feel and weight of the materials used. The descriptions of each item offer many details that may not be visible from the photos (such as lining materials, zipper placement, and degree of stretch in the material). Price Range (Plus Size Items) Shirts: ¥4,000 ~ ¥8,000 Blouses: ¥3,000 ~ ¥7,000 Sweaters, Knitwear: ¥2,000 ~ ¥8,000 Skirts: ¥2,000 ~ ¥10,000 Dresses: ¥3,000 ~ ¥20,000 Coats:   ¥6,000 ~ ¥18,000 Outerwear : ¥6,000 ~ ¥10,000 Payments and Shipping Dear My Love ships within Japan (excluding remote islands) AND internationally. If you are ordering from an address outside of Japan, your shipping cost will vary. If you are located outside of Japan, be aware that some items cannot be shipped internationally. You will still technically be able to purchase the item, but it will not be shipped to you. It will say in the item's description if it cannot be shipped internationally. A very important note: Not all items displayed are in stock. It will tell you that the item is back-ordered and will give you an estimate of arrival if you go ahead and order it. If an item is back-ordered or is accepting pre-orders (for new items not yet in stock), there will be a longer waiting period to receive the item. Payment options may vary depending on the shipping address. For those within Japan, most major payment methods are accepted. For those outside Japan, payments can only be made by credit card. Dear My Love does accept returns and exchanges for the following issues: ●Returns and exchanges due to defective product delivery. ●Returns and exchanges due to customer convenience. ●Re-shipment/exchange due to incorrect delivery or shortage. There is an extensive list here of conditions for returns, and what would disqualify a return from being accepted.

If you’re into Japanese nightlife, or just curious about what the country has to offer, chances are you’ve come across the term Girls Bar, Hostess Bars and Host Clubs. There are thousands of these types of bars in Japan, from big cities to small towns.  Jump to the bottom of this page to see the list of plus size Girls Bars you can visit in Japan What is a ‘Girls Bar’? A Girls Bar is a type of establishment where customers pay to socialize with female staff members one-on-one. Employees drink and chat with their customers, play games and form a friendly relationship. The girls will often communicate with customers outside of work hours via blogs and LINE - they work to maintain these “friendships” full-time in order to entice their customers to continue visiting the bar. Many Girls Bars have a ranking system; the more popular a girl is (how often she is requested and nominated) the higher her rates are. Top-ranked girls can receive a better salary, schedule and other perks as they are the ones bringing in the most business. These bars are distinct from typical bars in that people frequent them for the feeling of companionship, rather than just the drinks. The drinks are often far more expensive than your typical bar - customers can easily spend thousands in one night. This is because, ultimately, you’re not paying for just the drinks - you’re paying for the time spent with your hostess of choice. In addition to the higher drinks fee, there are other fees that come along with going to a Girls Bar such as a companionship ship (for a woman to sit with you), time fee (depending on how long and what time of night), and service charges (15%-20%). Many customers frequent the same bar repeatedly, building a bond with one or more employees. Maid Cafes, in a sense, are closely related to what a Girls Bar offers -  women to observe and interact with, for a fee. Locals don’t typically go to a Maid Cafe for the (overpriced) kawaii parfaits, they go for the Maids.  In most regular establishments, touching the girls is prohibited. Customers need to be respectful of the girls, though what is tolerated varies.  The employees need to maintain a balance of friendly and attentive, appearing interested in a customer. The goal is to make someone feel wanted, whether that’s making them feel like they could have a chance to date a girl (or hookup with her), or just providing friendship.  It’s not always about the faux relationship though. It’s pretty common for a group of friends to visit Girls Bars together just for the novelty, or for the female attention while they laugh and drink together.  Visiting Girls Bars is a common activity and isn’t seen as taboo. People go alone, with friends, even with colleagues or their boss. It’s a mainstay in the Japanese nightlife and can be a lot of fun if you can afford it. Specialty Girls Bars A lot of Girls Bars have a concept or theme. There are bars for every niche and attraction - from muscle bars, shy girls with glasses, cosplay bars, tall girls, older women, women with tattoos and piercings - whatever your preference, you can probably find a Girls Bar for it. So naturally, Plus Size Girls Bars, or “Pocha” Girls Bars exist (pocha is the term shortened from Pochari, which means chubby or overweight). A Pocha Girls Bar functions similarly to any other Girls Bar; you pay to spend time with a woman (or women) and buy her drinks. However,  in most Pocha Girls Bars, there is a weight minimum for employees. Some bars hire a wider range of plus size women (70 kg and up), while others have a 100 kg minimum.  The average weight of Japanese women, as of 2019, is about 59kg. Pocha Bar employees, in general, weigh 20-40kg more than the average population. Some of the most popular Japanese Pocha Bar hostesses weigh more than 150kg, almost 100 kg more than the average Japanese woman. The hostesses usually wear very revealing clothing - lower-cut tops, shorter dresses, and tighter silhouettes than what’s typically seen in plus size fashion.  Who visits Pocha Girls Bars? Whether you categorize it as a fetish or just an attraction, the primary audience for these bars are men who like larger women. Some clients are attracted to larger women in general, while others are primarily attracted to women with very large bra sizes, no matter the woman's other physical attributes.   A lot of people who visit Girls Bars are people that want to spend time with women they may otherwise not get the chance to talk to. Meeting new people and maintaining friendships/relationships takes time and effort, and some people don’t have the mental energy, social skills or physical time. Going to a Girls Bar, where the women are the ones who prompt conversations and give you undivided attention with little/no effort on your end is appealing to people. Instead of time/effort, you pay money, and for some that fulfills their need for socializing and alleviating loneliness. Being plus size is a minority in Japan, as is having a large bra size. For people who are physically attracted to plus size women, this gives them an opportunity they may not have otherwise had to interact. And, like other themed Girls Bars, some people go for the novelty. These people aren’t necessarily attracted to plus size women or any of their attributes, rather, they’re just curious to see what it’s about and want to have fun.  Are Girls Bars Problematic? One could argue that Girls Bars, in general, are problematic and promote shallow social relationships for a fee, as well as for objectifying women.  There are issues of safety, harassment, and boundaries. With such high prices, patrons expect the highest levels of service and undivided attention. Some may even feel entitled to an employee’s time and attention outside of work hours if they visit the bar often enough. You could also argue that these bars provide an important social service, alleviating loneliness and reducing mental stress.  The particular issue with Plus Size Girls Bars comes from the weight expectation, and in some establishments, the expectation to eat large quantities of unhealthy food. Along with ordering drinks for employees, many Pocha Girls Bars encourage patrons to order food for the women - and it is the expectation that she will eat a huge portion or multiple dishes. Throughout a week employees can consume thousands of extra calories. Employees are encouraged not to lose weight and can be fired from their jobs if they don’t meet the weight minimum. Some employees do maintain their weight, but it’s more common (and sometimes expected) for employees to gain weight while they are employed. Outside of the bar, employees build relationships and gain new followers by frequently posting on social media. If an employee is popular enough or has good relationships with people online, they can receive many gifts. On their social media profiles, you will often find links to Amazon wishlists or similar, where a fan can send their favorite girl gifts of her choosing. If they have a good relationship with an employee and visit her workplace frequently, they may also send her gifts not on her wishlist in hopes of gaining her favor.  On these wishlists, you’ll generally see regular things like clothing, makeup and accessories. However, for this niche, you will also see a lot of food and snacks. It’s common for patrons of Plus Size Girls Bars to send food as gifts, with the expectation that she will consume it either at the bar, or post photos/videos of her self eating on her social media.  Many girls who have a strong social media presence have fans from across the country. Some followers may have never actually been to her workplace or met her in person. With frequent gifts of food, as well as the expectation to eat in the bar, on top of drinking copious amounts of alcohol regularly, Plus Size Girls Bars employees face a unique issue; weight gain and health issues related to weight. But it’s not just an accepted side-effect of the job; it’s a selling point. Much like fetish content hosted on adult sites related to weight gain, the larger an employee gets, the more popular she can become. The more popular she is, the more she is nominated and moves up the ranks - and the more money she earns. The incentive is there for employees to either passively or purposely gain weight. S hould You Visit a Girls Bar? Girls Bars in general are notorious for turning away foreigners or people who do not speak Japanese because there are rules and customs in these bars that they are unable to communicate. It’s also difficult for the employees, as their job is to entertain you with conversation. That’s a little hard to do with a language barrier. Some employees are willing to communicate via translation apps, and some may speak languages other than Japanese, but it’s not common. If you do decide to go for the experience, expect a high bill. Try to become familiar with how Girls Bars work; no touching,  paying for her drinks, paying for the amount of time, table charges, and any other fees a bar may have. It’s not a scam, they aren’t targeting foreigners or taking advantage of you - these are the regular fees for all patron’s. If you do not understand a bar's charge system (often explained verbally, as well as written somewhere for you to read in Japanese) you cannot dispute the bill after racking it up. The responsibility is on you to know how it works and to be able to pay for it if you stay. If you’re not up for shelling out hundreds of dollars for the experience, you can find many employees on X (formerly Twitter) and join their fandoms for free. Plus Size Girls Bars You Can Visit In Japan Like we mentioned above, Japanese is the primary language used in Girls Bars, and if you are not a Japanese speaker you may be turned away. If you are able to enter, be aware that staff may only speak Japanese, and all signage, menus and charge system explanations will be in Japanese. On each bars website you can find charge system information, just use a translation application so you can understand it. Tokyo サクランボ少年 (CherryBoy) Address :   東京都葛飾区新小岩1-43-1 第2東ビル4Fの右側 Website : https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10047/shop16142/taiken/ Charge System : https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10047/shop16142/system.html ぽっちゃりASK (ChubbyASK) Address :   東京都墨田区東向島2‐47‐11 ビッグウエスト向島ビル501 Website : https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10046/shop16231/ Charge System : https://www.pokepara.jp/tokyo/m14/a10046/shop16231/system.html Osaka ぽっちゃりバー Pochari Bar Cocoron Address :   住所 大阪府大阪市中央区千日前1-6-7日宝阪町ファイブ2F Twiter: @cocoron_pocha Website : https://cocoron.info/ Charge System : https://cocoron.info/price/   Sapporo 美豚 Address :   北海道札幌市中央区南5条西2丁目 サイバーシティービル10F Website : http://biton29.com/ Charge System : Not available online