An unconventional love story: a 63-year-old bride older than her mother-in-law

Azarashi, 63, found love and happiness with a 31-year-old man, despite being older than her mother-in-law.

In a recent interview with Japanese media, Azarashi shared her unique love story. Divorced at 48 after over 20 years of marriage, she raised her son as a single mother. She explored dating apps, met a few people, but ultimately chose to remain single, focusing on her pet clothing store and dog-sitting business.

Azarashi and her husband, 32 years her junior, married in late 2022. Photo: Chantoweb

Her life took an unexpected turn in 8/2020. While at a Tokyo cafe, she found a cellphone behind a chair. "I thought someone had left it there, but then a young man approached, asking if I'd seen a phone," she recalled. A week later, fate intervened again on a train. They recognized each other, exchanged numbers, and soon began nightly hour-long calls.

"He understood everything I talked about, from work and daily life to my hobbies. I felt truly seen and appreciated, which made me happy," Azarashi confessed.

On their first official date, he sent her a love letter, proclaiming, "Please be my princess." A month into their relationship, they revealed their ages to each other. Azarashi's son, six years older than her new boyfriend, supported the relationship. His mother, however, initially objected due to the age gap and Azarashi's age, but eventually relented.

They married on Christmas Day 2022. Three years on, their love remains strong. They share household chores and run a matchmaking company together.

"We still call each other prince and princess," Azarashi shared.

The couple posing by the pool. Photo: Chantoweb

Their story sparked lively online discussions in Japan. One commenter remarked, "Azarashi looks younger than her age, is confident and financially independent. She deserves love." Another expressed concern, "What if he leaves her for someone younger, prettier, more successful?"

Azarashi, however, believes "what matters now is our happiness." She plans to continue working to afford future care, easing the burden on her husband. She also intends to leave him financially secure if she passes away first, a topic they discuss openly. "I tell him, if you remarry, you'll need money because young women won't be interested otherwise," Azarashi stated. "He has his own work besides our matchmaking business. I believe with enough money, life will be stable, and I always hope he lives well."