A survey by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare had revealed that there are 5,400 people across the country who are basically homeless and spend their nights at Internet and manga cafes, and other temporary venues. About half of the people who live this way are those without regular employment.

Those in their 20s form the largest age group, followed by people in their 50s. The figures highlight employment problems that are affecting middle-aged and elderly people as well as those in their 20s.

About 60,900 people stay overnight at Internet cafes every day, the survey found. More than half of them are customers using computers and other cafe services, but there are also an estimated 5,400 homeless people who stay overnight at the cafes for more than half of the week.