Japanese Man with Four “Wives” Aims for 54 Children and the Title "God of Marriage"

Ryuta Watanabe, a 36-year-old from Hokkaido, Japan, has set an ambitious goal: fathering 54 children and earning the title “God of Marriage.” Currently, Watanabe lives with three of his four wives and two of his ten children, defying traditional societal norms.

His relationship with his fourth wife remains estranged.

Watanabe’s inspiration stems from Tokugawa Ienari, an 18th-century Japanese shogun reputed to have fathered 53 children, according to Shueisha Online.

Challenging Conventional Family Structures

Although Japanese law does not officially recognize polygamy, Watanabe maintains marriage-like commitments through common-law partnerships. His partners share responsibilities without formal legal binding. Watanabe manages household duties such as cooking, cleaning, and childcare, while his wives work to cover their monthly expenses, which amount to approximately 914,000 yen (7,909.27 SGD).

Despite being unemployed, Watanabe supports his family financially through media appearances on the Reiwa no Tora CHANNEL and his personal YouTube account.

Ryuta Watanabe on Reiwa no Tora CHANNEL via Youtube

Photos courtesy of Ryuta Watanabe’s Youtube

Social Media Influence

Watanabe began his unconventional family six years ago after a breakup. He turned to dating apps to form connections with women who would later become his partners. Today, he uses social media to meet new women, with two of his current girlfriends joining his family this way. Watanabe shared on Abema Prime that “as long as we love each other equally, there won’t be any problems.”

Ryuta Watanabe with his family on ABEMA Prime

He rotates between bedrooms in their home, engaging in intimate relations over 28 times weekly, sometimes involving two or three women daily or group interactions. If he misses a rotation, a wife may remind him, saying, “It’s not my turn today.”

Finances and Support Structure

Watanabe’s reliance on his partners’ income may seem unconventional, but he sees value in creating a stable home environment. Though he hasn’t held a traditional job for more than a decade, he believes he contributes by caring for the household and children.

His partners endorse his goals and participate in media appearances as needed. Their combined financial support sustains Watanabe’s dream of a large family.

While critics question his lifestyle, Watanabe stays resolute. He has grown accustomed to criticism and negative remarks, but his partners’ support reinforces his resolve.

An Ambitious Vision

Watanabe’s quest for 54 children goes beyond personal desire. He wants to be remembered for his devotion to love and family. He envisions living with up to seven wives, believing that this number allows for a fulfilling life.

Although achieving his goal remains uncertain, Watanabe and his family remain committed to their shared vision and unwavering support for each other.

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