As more people pursue health and wellness-driven lifestyles, alcohol-free bars continue to gain in popularity around the world.
But what about people who usually drink but are temporarily unable to, such as moms-to-be?
Although this may not be unique to Japan, many future moms may feel social pressure to refrain from activities typically associated with unmarried life such as going to bars or nightclubs once they are married, and especially once they are pregnant.
Even if it's a sober bar, since they are still a minor trend in Japan, the prevailing image of bars may make it difficult for moms-to-be to visit them.
One Japanese company decided to do something about this. They talked to female employees who were pregnant or had previously taken maternity leave and this is some of the feedback they received:
- "It's the hot summer season... I can't say it out loud, but even moms-to-be really want to drink!"
- "It's hard for me. I can't drink for about two years because I have to breastfeed. Meanwhile, my husband is drinking beside me!"
- "(During pregnancy), it feels lonely not having a separate space where I can enjoy good food, drink, and chat with my friends."
The rest of the article can be viewed on our partner’s website, grape Japan at “Japan opens a mocktail bar where moms-to-be can unwind.”
Author: Grape Japan
