The Romantic Think Tank Launches to Address the Decline of Sensitivity in Modern Society

The Launch of a New Romantic Era: The Romantic Institute

In a world where efficiency and rationality are increasingly prioritized, the Japan Romanticist Association (Headquarters: Tokyo, President: Katsunori Nayoshi) is taking a bold step to counteract what they term 'sensitivity poverty.' Starting from June 19, commemorating Romance Day, the association will celebrate its 20th anniversary by launching the "Romantic Institute." This think tank aims to elevate the importance of meaningful connections and emotional richness that often get overlooked in today's fast-paced society.

This year's initiative is declared as "Romance Year," marking a pivotal moment to investigate and promote emotional depth in human interactions. The narratives around time-saving and cost-effectiveness often lead individuals to question the very essence of their pursuits, potentially losing track of why they work or what they truly cherish. As society becomes more convenient, we risk losing our ability to experience awe, deep connections, and heartfelt encounters.

Addressing Sensitivity Poverty

The concept of 'sensitivity poverty' has evolved as the emphasis on productivity and utility has led to the neglect and eventual expulsion of seemingly 'useless' joys. The Romantic Institute aims to challenge this mindset by delving into what exactly evokes 'spark' in people's lives. The goal is to examine spiritual wealth and its necessity in a rational world.

Over its two decades of existence, the Japan Romanticist Association has defined a romanticist as someone who can make those they love the happiest. Their initiatives, such as declaring Romance Day and projects like "Screaming Love from the Center of a Potato Field," highlight the importance of emotional dialogue among individuals.

New Research Projects for the Romance Year

To commemorate its 20th anniversary, the Romantic Institute is set to embark on five groundbreaking research projects focused on deciphering the structure of emotions that move people's hearts.

1. Endangered Romantic Species: This initiative will focus on preserving small fragments of joy we are losing, such as handwritten notes and postcards from trips. The institute invites submissions from around the country to preserve and analyze romantic customs we want to retain for future generations.

2. Romanticization of Japan Program: This project will explore what kinds of landscapes and phenomena invoke emotional value among the Japanese public. Submissions for romantic locations and experiences will be gathered to unearth emotional assets in regions yet to be recognized as tourist attractions.

3. Japanese Romantic White Paper 2026: A large-scale survey will analyze contemporary romantic practices, such as AI relationship consultations and the rise of alternative partnerships beyond traditional marriages. Set to be published in 2027, this collaboration will pool insights from experts and researchers in the field.

4. Romantic Assessment: By offering a diagnostic tool, people can visualize their own emotional types based on seven perspectives, including romantic, adventurous, and nostalgic frames. The aim is to help individuals understand what truly moves their hearts amidst busy lives.

5. TOKYO WORLD TRAVEL Concept: This immersive project revolves around a culinary passport for Tokyo, showcasing restaurants from 195 countries, thereby exploring outbound cultural possibilities contrary to existing inbound strategies. Potential partner companies are invited to collaborate in realizing this vision.

For inquiries about partnerships or sponsorship, visit Japan Romance Contact.

The Importance of Romance in Today's Society

Katsunori Nayoshi, the president of the Japan Romanticist Association, emphasizes that in modern society, where rationality is valued, we often overlook invaluable sentiments. At times, we become disconnected from what truly drives us, making it essential to pause and reflect on our emotional well-being.

In this era, it is crucial to thoughtfully revisit what inspires us, our connections with others, and the sources of our happiness. The Romantic Institute endeavors to transform the understanding of romantic notions into actionable insights for various domains including corporate, local government, and individual well-being.

The Japan Romanticist Association views the concepts of romance not solely as limited to love but as a broader element that can significantly contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. Through their initiatives, they will generate new insights that resonate not just in personal lives but across societal dimensions, advocating for a more enriched emotional landscape in our fast-moving world.

For more information on the Japan Romanticist Association or the Romantic Institute, visit their official website.