A soft winter breeze still lingers, but it’s gradually warming up. Even the night air seems to carry a hint of sweetness. Lately, I’ve noticed more moments when my heart feels like it’s floating gently.

Before we knew it, the cherry blossoms had fallen, and fresh green leaves began to shimmer in the sun. That’s right—May is just around the corner. It’s that time of year when both your heart and body naturally want to move forward.

That’s exactly when you feel like opening the door of a snack bar and talking to someone. You feel like having a heart-to-heart, a bit of love talk (koibana) with people you wouldn’t normally meet. More than the endless theories swirling around on social media, what we’re really craving is deep, genuine human connection.

The mama-sans you’ll meet in the alleys of snack bars light up the night and gently give a push to your love-seeking heart.

Here, let us share three common stories about love that bloom from conversations with these wise and warm-hearted mamas.

 

“Are your ‘ideals’ turning into walls, not just preferences?”

Kind, funny, financially stable…

When you start listing off your ideal type, the mama can’t help but chuckle.

“So? Where is this perfect person?”

Having high standards isn’t necessarily bad. But sometimes, those ideals become an excuse to run away from real, sincere love.

“When you truly fall in love, all those conditions come second.”

That one line from mama sinks deep into your heart. No matter how many ideals you stack up, in the end, love happens between people who simply like each other. And if someone wants to be alone, they’ll choose that path. It really is that simple.

 

“Is that person really listening to what you’re saying?”

You go on dates. They message you every day. But something still feels off.

When you share that uncertainty with mama, she tilts her head.

“Did they ask again about something you already told them? That means they’re not serious.”

According to mama, someone who’s serious about you remembers what you say.

“Listening is proof that they truly care.”

Just that alone reveals the temperature of love. Noticing a difference in emotional warmth doesn’t mean it’s over—but it might be time to set off on a new journey to find someone whose warmth matches yours.

 

“Before looking for love—can you say ‘I love myself’?”

After the end of a tough relationship, when you sigh, “Maybe I’m just not attractive enough,” mama smiles gently.

“You have to love yourself first. If you don’t believe you’re a wonderful woman, no one else will.”

Look in the mirror and say, “You’re doing great today.”

Wear clothes you love, eat something delicious, get a good night’s sleep.

Love naturally finds its way to those who take care of themselves.

From spring into early summer, the air softens, and just like the changing breeze, a small wind begins to stir in your heart.

A simple line from a snack mama can feel like magic, gently giving you the push you need.

There are many ways to meet people, but when you’re lost or struggling, having someone to talk to makes all the difference.

When your mood dips, or when life’s changes are hard to keep up with—just remember,

“There was that mama who listened to me.”

“I want to go back to that bar again.”

If you ever feel that way, don’t hesitate to drop by.

May is just around the corner. A new season—and mamas all over Japan—are waiting to welcome the love in your heart.