Solo activities grow in popularity among women seeking independence

I think the point is beyond the eating solo thing.

As I see it, in Japan hanging out with other people is not only a moment of joy and pleasure and friendship, but also a moment where you have to care about 上下関係 and thus (more than in the West) always be careful to what you say and how you say it.

I think this is the reason why a lot of Japanese prefer to stay at home rather than going out, or why you see all those restaurants with seats for people who are eating alone.

I am totally supportive of the independence of both men and women who are comfortable travelling or going out alone (I do this myself), but I think that in Japan the issue has a bigger perspective and is a matter of society and societal norms, which kind of make the individual feel the pressure of relationships, thus making him/her want to spend time alone.

It is uncommon for Japanese indeed but totally natural to many countries where women rights are respected.

Problem is starting solo, staying solo forever in Japan...

Reckless: Not all solo women aren’t married. I’m married with 2 kids and also enjoy having my me time by traveling or dining solo. Luckily my husband understands and is supportive to that. Do you allow the same for your wife?

Wonderful! Even though I have a partner, I regularly go out by myself to lunch/dinner, movies, the beach, parks, walking, sightseeing, shopping, and even traveling abroad. I've even gone to bars alone, but I always make sure to chose the types of places where you can have a quiet drink without being bothered by anyone.

I don't see why I should stay home alone or avoid doing the things I like just because I don't happen to have anyone to go with at that time. I go where I want to go, and do what I want to do - I just make sure to have a podcast to listen to or a book to read, and I can enjoy myself for hours. The only negative is that when dining alone, you can't steal food off your friend's plates. LOL.