Yoshinori Ogawa, 27, is a bassist in the rock band Dusty Rose. He considers himself a professional musician, but like many other would-be musicians or thespians, he has not yet reached the point where he can support himself on his music alone.
To make a living, Ogawa works part-time at a nearby laundry. Collecting and delivering laundry, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., five days a week, he earns nearly 200,000 yen a month.
Though he does not get any of the benefits permanent employees can claim from the company, such as health insurance and paid holidays, Ogawa says he has never wanted to take this career path. "Permanent employees have more responsibility," he says, "which would make it more difficult for me to take time off for my musical activities, such as recording and concerts."