In Japan, Tokyo City Hall has launched a new online service called “Tokyo Futari Story” aimed at helping people find relationships by offering counseling and general information. This initiative comes as Japan’s birth rate hits an all-time low, and the marriage rate continues to decline. Due to the low birth rates, Japan is facing a labor shortage, and to mitigate this issue, the government is offering cash payments for families with children and supporting child-care facilities.
The “Tokyo Futari Story” initiative is designed to encourage relationships in a country where it is becoming increasingly common to be “hitori,” or alone. The online service currently offers counseling and general information for potential lovebirds, with a dating app in development. The city hopes to launch the app later this year, accessible through phone or web. The app may require confirmation of identity, such as a driver’s license, tax records to prove income, and a signed form indicating readiness for marriage.
Marriage is on the decline in Japan, with last year’s birth rate reaching an all-time low and the number of marriages decreasing. The government has been attempting to address the labor shortage issue by providing financial incentives for families with children and supporting child-care facilities. Additionally, Japan has relaxed its immigration policy to attract more foreign workers. The decline in marriages and birth rates can be attributed to changing societal norms, with fewer young Japanese adults showing interest in traditional marriage and starting families.
During the 1970s, Japan experienced a “baby boom” era with over 2 million births annually. However, the current trend reflects a shift in attitudes towards marriage and child-rearing, with many young adults prioritizing their careers and personal fulfillment over starting a family. Workplace norms in Japan often involve long working hours and limited opportunities to socialize outside of work, which may contribute to the declining marriage and birth rates. The cost of raising children is also a concern for many individuals.
Tokyo City Hall is actively promoting events and initiatives to encourage relationships and marriage within the community. Singles can attend events to meet potential partners, couples can receive counseling on marriage, and lovers can have their stories turned into manga comics or songs. These efforts reflect a broader societal shift towards embracing alternative forms of relationships and supporting individuals in finding love and companionship. The city’s commitment to fostering connections and supporting relationships showcases a proactive approach to addressing the challenges presented by declining birth rates and marriage rates in Japan.
