The Era of Unmanned Stores: Self-Checkout Becomes Mainstream in Japan Ferre KeiraFebruary 5, 20260954 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
JR East to Raise Yamanote Line Fares by Up to 22.9% from March Sheila NellyFebruary 2, 202601.1K views JR East announced a comprehensive fare increase starting March 14th, with commuter tickets on the Yamanote Line increasing by up to 22.9%, significantly increasing the monthly burden on commuters. Kanto… Read more
Spring Pollen Season Hits Japan – Visitors Should Be Careful Harry ErnestJanuary 30, 20260469 views Japan’s cedar pollen season is approaching, with high concentrations expected in eastern and northern regions. Travelers are advised to wear protective gear and monitor daily pollen forecasts. TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE)… Read more
Foreign Residents in Japan Reach Record High as Skilled Professionals Drive Growth Business PRJanuary 14, 20260692 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 KeiraJanuary 14, 20260786 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 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