Japanese man sleeping over strangers’ houses for upto 5 years goes viral

• A Japanese man, Shuraf Ishida, has gained significant attention.
• His method of securing shelter placed him in the spotlight.
• He asks strangers to let him sleep over.

A 33-year-old Japanese man, Shuraf Ishida, has gained significant attention for his unique method of securing shelter—by asking strangers to let him sleep over.

Over the past five years, Ishida has stayed in more than 500 different homes after quitting his job and selling most of his belongings to travel across Japan with just a backpack.

To find accommodation, Ishida stands in busy public areas, holding a sign that reads, “Please Let Me Stay Over Tonight!” Surprisingly, he often finds willing hosts, primarily lonely homeowners seeking companionship.

While many passersby ignore him, he rarely goes without a place to stay. On the rare occasions he does not find a new host, he reaches out to previous ones.

“It’s exciting, like casting a fishing line and waiting for a fish,” Ishida described the experience. He enjoys listening to the life stories of the homeowners, stating it “feels like reading a different novel every night.”

Despite facing criticism on social media for relying on others’ kindness instead of working, Ishida insists that he provides value to his hosts. Over 90% of those who welcome him are single homeowners who appreciate the company.

Ishida’s story has recently gone viral in Japan, leading to requests from people wanting to host him and news outlets seeking interviews. However, he remains committed to his lifestyle and plans to continue sleeping in strangers’ homes.