Japanese Young Adults Rethink Meals and Alcohol Consumption

A university student living alone in Japan says that eating only one meal a day saves time and money, allowing more focus on hobbies and personal interests. The column highlights the student’s view that the efficiency of daily routines—what he calls “time performance”—is more valuable than traditional three‑meal habits.

A second column observes that despite widespread talk of a “youth drinking decline,” recent graduates often drink more after entering the workforce. They cite workplace gatherings and social drinking as important for building relationships with peers and seniors, noting a shift where alcohol is reserved for special events rather than daily consumption. Together, the pieces illustrate changing attitudes among Japanese youth toward efficiency, social rituals, and how they allocate their limited time.