Table for one? Then how about trying out karaoke for one? Or even golf or soccer? In the face of the declining population coupled with an increasing number of people who remain single, companies are beginning to target a new clientele — the solo customer.

Karaoke chain operator Koshidaka Co., for example, offers single-person karaoke rooms at eight of its stores, mainly in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Solo users can sing their heart out in the compact, soundproof "One Kara" booths, which are equipped with high-grade microphones and headphones.

Prices at the Tokyo booths start at ¥400 for 30 minutes, with a minimum charge for one hour or more.