Feminism as a trigger for change in the dynamics of danjyo kankei and the unmarried trend in Japan

The patriarchal culture in Japanese society can be observed from its smallest and most basic unit, the family, where all decisions are made by men as heads of the household and must be obeyed, making women’s actions dependent on men. Although the trend of remaining unmarried has mainly highlighted women, many Japanese men also follow this pattern. This study aims to analyze the introduction of feminism, its influence, and the impact of the unmarried trend on Japanese society. The research employs a qualitative approach, collecting primary data from official Japanese government websites and secondary data from academic literature. Thematic analysis is applied to identify patterns and relationships, while triangulation and peer review ensure validity and reliability, providing a comprehensive understanding of feminism’s influence on social dynamics and marriage trends in Japan. The study shows that the second wave of feminism in Japan successfully challenged patriarchal norms and promoted gender equality. Women, particularly middle-class mothers, gained the freedom to choose their life paths and develop themselves beyond traditional roles (ryosai kenbo). This shift also influenced young people’s perceptions of marriage and transformed the Danjyo Kankei relationship into a more equal one, empowering women. The study contributes to understanding gender dynamics in Japan by demonstrating how the second wave of feminism changed the Danjyo Kankei relationship and traditional female roles. The findings expand academic insights into gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the impact of social movements on cultural norms and young people’s attitudes toward marriage.