In a heartwarming twist that has gone viral in Japan, 32-year-old Isamu Tomioka recently married 53-year-old Midori, who is the mother of his former classmate. Despite a 21-year age gap and an unconventional backstory, their love story has captured the public’s imagination.
Isamu first noticed Midori as a teenager at a parent-teacher meeting, where she attended as the mother of his classmate. Even then, he found her beautiful. Two decades later, upon meeting her again, he was immediately drawn to her mature and dignified presence and decided to pursue her. To get closer to Midori, he reached out to his former classmate, who is also her daughter. Although Midori initially rejected his advances, believing that their significant age difference made them incompatible, Isamu persisted. He asked her out every day for a month after their first dinner, took her to 40 illumination spots after learning about her love for lights, and continuously expressed his love and commitment.
Read more: Tanzanian Man with 16 Wives and 104 Children Calls His Family a ‘Working System’
While Isamu’s parents were supportive, Midori’s family, particularly her mother, voiced concerns about her dating a younger man. Midori’s mother cautioned, “You’re a grandmother now. After a broken marriage, think carefully before entering this unusual relationship.” However, Midori’s daughter, who is also Isamu’s former classmate, stepped in with her blessing, telling her, “If I’m the obstacle, don’t worry about me. Just think about your happiness, Mum.”
In a grand gesture to prove his commitment, Isamu purchased a house valued at $255,000 (38 million yen) for their future together. With the blessings of both families, the couple tied the knot in July 2024, a union that has been celebrated widely on social media and featured on the Japanese show “Newlyweds Welcome!” Their story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and love, proving that true affection can overcome conventional boundaries.
