Foreign Tourists Drive Hot Spring Stays Up in Japan; Etiquette Remains Key Ferre KeiraJanuary 3, 20260697 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 KeiraJanuary 3, 20260760 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 Moves Toward LED Lighting as Fluorescent Lamp Limits Begin Ferre KeiraDecember 18, 202502.5K 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
Rising Food Prices in Japan Put Pressure on Year-End and New Year Holiday Meals Ferre KeiraDecember 12, 20250462 views With food prices hitting record highs, Japanese families face tight budgets for Christmas and New Year meals. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative advises taking advantage of supermarket discounts, buying essentials… Read more
Early Flu Season Spurs Reminder: Room-Temperature Water Is Key to Throat Protection Ferre KeiraDecember 11, 202501.5K views This year’s flu season arrived early. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds the public to keep their throat moist and drink room-temperature water to help prevent infection. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE)… Read more
Japan’s Toy Market Defies Trend to Reach New High; Adult Players and Tourists as the Biggest Drivers Ferre KeiraNovember 29, 202501.1K views Despite a declining birth rate, Japan’s toy market continues to grow, projected to surpass 1 trillion yen in 2024. Analysis indicates that adults with a childlike spirit and overseas tourists… Read more
90% of People Aware of Smartphone Addiction, 80% Want to Reduce Usage but Struggle to Do So” Ferre KeiraNovember 29, 202501.1K views A survey reveals that 90% of people unconsciously use their phones, and 80% want to reduce usage but find it difficult to do so. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative suggests… Read more
Paper Planners Make a Comeback: Handwriting Finds New Meaning in a Digital World Ferre KeiraNovember 20, 202501.2K views Paper planners are gaining popularity again. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative points out that handwriting brings a sense of stability to organizing thoughts and life rhythm, and is more comfortable running… Read more
JR-East Celebrates 140th Anniversary of Station Bento: 63 Local Specialties Compete for “Number One Bento” Ferre KeiraNovember 20, 20250409 views To celebrate the 140th anniversary of Japanese station bento, JR-East is holding a poll with 63 regional bento options vying for the title of “Number One Bento.” The poll is… Read more
Residents and Travelers Urged to Use Electric Heaters Safely as Japan Enters Dry Winter Ferre KeiraNovember 13, 202502K views As Japan enters its cold and dry winter season, the risk of electrical fires is increasing. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative advises travelers to use electric heaters and appliances safely,… Read more