Hisayo Takano is the owner of Club Akasaka, a hostess bar in Tokyo that many of her customers call the best "clinic" they've ever known. It's where they come to regain their strength. Others compare it to the Shoukasonjuku, because, just like at that famous 19th-century school for young leaders, clients here can learn from each other. She's had several careers, including being a flight attendant, but she is happiest to be called a "counselor" and a good mother to her three boys, ages 15, 26 and 29.

Being a mama-san is like being a student at a top university and getting paid well. Every night I talk to fascinating, intelligent men, who treat me with respect and even part with their hard-earned money to thank me.

Less is more. I'm most comfortable with just chatting with one or two customers so we can have deep discussions.