Only in Japan ...

... can Host/Hostess Clubs exist so openly, despite the conservative culture, and somehow not seem sleazy. Tokyo's red light districts are famous for their Host/Hostess Clubs, where customers come seeking attention and companionship from a member of the opposite sex. Essentially, you get a companion who hangs on your every word, pours your drinks, lights your cigarettes, and generally fawns over you. The funny thing is that in almost any other country, you would expect these establishments to be nothing more than glorified brothels - while it's certain that some level of prostitution takes place in some of these establishments, the majority of clubs don't condone it, and the entire concept is actually quite harmless, despite the dodgy outward appearance.