This is the fourth in a five-part series on Japan's population woes caused by its graying society and low birthrate.

Nakamura, an 18-year-old university student, winces whenever he imagines himself dating a girl.

"I mean, I would have to pay attention to what I wear and rack my brains to figure out where I should take her for a date. . . . It's just too much of a hassle," he says.