After shying away from eating in restaurants and staying at hotels by themselves, Japanese women are beginning to seek more time alone.

Japanese businesses are setting out the welcome mat for this group of savvy consumers with money to burn.

"I don't mind spending my money on services that satisfy me," said Mayuko Shimoda, a 31-year-old woman who manages a Web design firm. She does not hesitate to open her wallet as long as she gets what she wants.