Every one of Japan’s 47 prefectures posted a population drop in 2022, while the total number of Japanese people fell by nearly 800,000. But national policies have so far failed to dent population decline, though concerted efforts by a sprinkling of small towns have had some effect. More than half of all municipalities are designated as depopulated districts, schools are closing and more than 1.2 million small businesses have owners aged about 70 with no successor. Despite this, approximately 300 small towns have significantly boosted births via a combination of generous pay outs and policies to create more child-friendly environments. Although Japan’s population started to fall before that of other countries – peaking in 2008 – declines in fertility rates have been more precipitous elsewhere, particularly in east Asia.

Source: The Guardian July 27, 2023 00:59 UTC