Japan’s Print Publishing Market Falls Below ¥1 Trillion, Hitting a Nearly 50-Year Low Ferre Keira2026-02-0504.9K views In 2025, Japan’s print publishing market dips below ¥1 trillion. Magazines face sharp declines, yet readers continue to favor and visit bookstores for paper books. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) – The… Read more
Japan’s Supermarket Ready-Made Meals Hit Record High Ferre Keira2026-02-0503.8K views Japan’s ready-made meal market has surpassed ¥11 trillion, indicating rising consumer demand. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative advises consumers to consider both convenience and product shelf life. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) –… Read more
Japan’s Valentine’s Day Chocolate Season Turns Bitter as Cocoa Prices Soar Ferre Keira2026-01-2203.4K views As Valentine’s Day approaches, department stores across Japan are rolling out chocolate-themed promotions, but this year’s celebrations come with a bitter note. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) – With Valentine’s Day drawing… Read more
The Era of Unmanned Stores: Self-Checkout Becomes Mainstream in Japan Ferre Keira2026-01-1602.7K views Labor shortages and rising wages are driving Japan’s shift to self-checkout and unmanned stores, making automated shopping an increasingly common part of daily life. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) – Structural issues… Read more
Foreign Residents in Japan Reach Record High as Skilled Professionals Drive Growth Ferre Keira2026-01-0803.7K views Japan’s foreign resident population has reached a new record, driven by a growing number of overseas residents choosing to settle in the country, particularly skilled professionals filling critical roles amid… Read more
Japan’s Matcha Craze Becomes a New Driver of Experiential Tourism Ferre Keira2026-01-0802.7K views Japan’s matcha boom is extending beyond cafés and export markets, increasingly shaping travel trends as foreign visitors seek immersive tea experiences that blend culture, craftsmanship and culinary tourism. TOKYO, JAPAN… Read more
Foreign Tourists Drive Hot Spring Stays Up in Japan; Etiquette Remains Key Ferre Keira2026-01-0102.1K views With record-breaking numbers of foreign tourists visiting Japan, overnight stays in hot spring areas are rebounding. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds tourists to observe proper hot spring etiquette and maintain… Read more
Mochi Safety Alert: Elderly and Visitors Urged to Eat Slowly Ferre Keira2026-01-0102.5K views Mochi is frequently served during the New Year period, but it also poses a hidden risk of choking. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds everyone that January is the peak season… Read more
Japan’s Ice Cream Market Heats Up as Winter Consumption Surges Ferre Keira2025-12-2501.7K views The Japanese ice cream market continues to expand, with significant growth in winter sales. With improved living conditions, the rise of therapeutic consumption, and convenience stores pushing up prices, ice… Read more
Japan Moves Toward LED Lighting as Fluorescent Lamp Limits Begin Ferre Keira2025-12-1803K views Japan will restrict mercury-containing fluorescent lamps starting in 2026, and the Kanto Smart Living Cooperative is urging the public to plan ahead and gradually replace them with LED lighting. TOKYO,… Read more