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
Against Global Obesity Trends, Underweight Remains Common Among Young Women in Japan Julie HowardJanuary 3, 20260848 views The proportion of underweight women among Japan’s young female population has remained at around 20% for years, standing in sharp contrast to the global focus on rising obesity rates. OSAKA,… 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, 20250463 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
Japan’s Matcha Industry Confronts Climate-Driven Crisis Julie HowardDecember 11, 202501.2K views As global demand grows, driven by rising interest from international consumers, Japan’s tencha production has been affected by this year’s extreme heat, resulting in reduced yields and quality. With demand… 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