A Japanese retiree has recently gone viral for his unconventional post-retirement decision that didn’t unfold quite as planned. Tetsu Yamada stepped away from work at the age of 60. He had a retirement fund of Rs 2.96 crore (50 million yen), and proposed a quieter life in his rural hometown to his wife, Keiko.

However, accustomed to the comforts and pace of city living, Keiko declined the idea. Their two sons, both employed in Tokyo, were also unable to relocate. This left Tetsu’s retirement dream at odds with his family’s lifestyle.

Wife Refuses to Leave City Life

Keiko, his wife, however, had different plans. A homemaker used to Tokyo’s fast-paced life, she rejected the idea of moving. Their two sons, both working in Tokyo, also couldn’t relocate. With tensions rising, Keiko suggested sotsukon. Sotsukon is a Japanese concept of staying married but living separately for personal freedom. The idea, first introduced in 2004, is growing among older couples in Japan.

Yamada agreed, thinking it was less complicated than a divorce. He moved to the countryside alone and renovated the old family home using his pension. He believed he was beginning a tranquil “second life.” However, reality struck hard. Lacking basic life skills, he failed to manage household chores and survived on instant noodles and frozen vegetables.

Keiko’s Life Flourishes Without Him

Meanwhile, Keiko’s life took a positive turn. She launched a handmade craft workshop in Tokyo, which began thriving. Through social media, Yamada saw glimpses of her success and happiness. “Even without me, she looks very happy,” he admitted, expressing loneliness and regret.

Though he and Keiko occasionally chat online, Yamada’s relationship with his sons appears to have weakened. He now feels emotionally distant from the family and uncertain about whether he should return to Tokyo.

A Growing Trend Among Japanese Women

A 2014 survey by Interstation showed 56.8% of married Japanese women aged 30–60 supported the idea of sotsukon, with most preferring to live separately between ages 60–65. Many cited the desire to enjoy life freely without being confined to domestic duties.

As Yamada faces the downside of emotional isolation, his story reflects a broader societal shift in Japan, where older women increasingly seek independence, even within marriage.

“Yamada thought he was starting a second life, but without life skills, leaving his family turned out to be a disaster,” said one user while another added: “Let’s wish Keiko well. She no longer has to care for others and can focus on her own hobbies.”