In the quiet streets of Sapporo, a 35-year-old man, Watanabe Ryota, has become the talk of the town. His claim to fame? He proudly identifies as a “one-husband-multiple-wives soft-lifer,” boasting four wives, two girlfriends, and a goal to father 54 children to make a mark on Japan’s historical records.
The Unusual Lifestyle: A Glimpse into Watanabe Ryota’s World
1. The Unconventional Household Arrangement
Living with three wives and three children under one roof, Watanabe Ryota challenges societal norms. Each wife has her own room, and he rotates nightly between them, driven by the desire to surpass historical records of the Tokugawa family, known for having the most significant number of offspring in Japanese history.
2. The Financial Dynamics
Despite being unemployed for a decade, Watanabe Ryota openly shares the monthly expenses, totaling a staggering 840,000 Japanese Yen (approximately 183,000 New Taiwan Dollars). Surprisingly, these expenses are collectively covered by his four wives and two girlfriends. Watanabe himself takes charge of household chores, showcasing a non-traditional division of responsibilities.
3. The Recruitment Drive for More “Wives”
Not content with his current arrangements, Watanabe Ryota actively seeks to expand his “harem” and is in the process of recruiting new partners. The existing wives, however, seem content with the situation, citing his unique charm and the balanced nature of their shared responsibilities.
The Legal Quandary: Navigating Polygamy in Japan
1. Legal Hurdles
Japan’s legal framework doesn’t permit polygamy, presenting a challenge for Watanabe Ryota. Unable to officially register marriages with all his partners simultaneously, he resorts to a cycle of marrying and divorcing one woman at a time, leading to a de facto polygamous lifestyle.
2. Living in a “Common Law” Arrangement
Watanabe Ryota acknowledges the legal constraints but continues to live in what he refers to as a “common law” marriage. His unconventional approach to relationships raises questions about societal acceptance and the need for legal adjustments.
Embracing Social Media: Expanding Beyond the Household
Venturing into the digital realm, Watanabe Ryota actively manages online communities. Contrary to his public image, he reveals having a total of nine children and explores ways to generate additional income through online platforms, showcasing the evolving landscape of unconventional lifestyles in the digital age.
Conclusion: A Portrait of Unconventional Love
In a society bound by traditional norms, Watanabe Ryota stands as a symbol of unconventional love and relationships. His pursuit of a record-breaking family size challenges societal expectations, sparking conversations about the boundaries of love and legal frameworks.