Baby showers, a mainly American tradition of holding special parties for expectant mothers to celebrate the imminent arrival of their babies, are gradually gaining popularity in Japan.

Tokyo Baby Cafe, a cafe near Tokyo's Omotesando boulevard with an indoor playroom for babies and toddlers, launched in August a "baby shower service plan" that offers an opportunity for friends and family members of a mom-to-be to throw a party for her.

Several major hotels have also begun offering similar services.