How Japan 'solved' the problem of homelessness

May 17 (Economics Nation) - Japan is a very interesting country and stands out in many ways. But there is one statistic in particular that stands it apart from other developed countries. It is the only country that, despite having a population of 125 million, has very few homeless people or people living on the streets.

Exactly, only 0.003 % of the total population. Other countries such as the United States have 0.18% of their population homeless. Sweden 0.33%, and Australia 0.48%. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the total number of homeless people in Japan is 3,448. This is the lowest figure recorded since 2003, when it exceeded 25,000 people. So, according to these figures, Japan is apparently a country that has found a solution to this problem. However, the reality of the cyber-kafé industry shows a very different picture.

Japan's Academics Demand Independence

Scholars affiliated with the Science Council of Japan formed a symbolic human chain in front of the National Diet building on May 8th, calling for revisions to the government’s proposed reform bill targeting the council’s structure, as deliberations enter their final phase in the Diet.

Inside Japan’s Failing Sewers

Across Japan, road collapses have been occurring with increasing frequency, often blamed on aging infrastructure. In one recent incident in Ashioshi, Saitama Prefecture, a truck was swallowed by a gaping sinkhole.

Two Men Arrested for Breaking Into Tokyo School

Two men who were arrested for forcibly entering an elementary school in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, and assaulting staff members have been identified as friends of a student's mother. One of the suspects denies the charges, claiming he was only brushing people off after being restrained.

Cherry Blossoms Reach Final Stage, Six Days Earlier Than Average

Cherry blossoms have begun to bloom in Wakkanai and Kushiro, marking the near completion of Japan's cherry blossom front for 2025.

Lack of Sleep After Golden Week May Signal Sleep Disorder, Experts Warn

As many in Japan returned to work or school on May 7th following the Golden Week holiday, a growing number are reporting post-holiday fatigue and sleep deprivation—conditions that experts warn may point to deeper sleep-related issues.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Education NEWS

Former Nihon University Vice President Loses Power Harassment Suit

The Tokyo District Court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a former vice president of Nihon University who sought damages over alleged power harassment by board chairperson Mariko Hayashi in the wake of a drug scandal involving the university’s American football team. The court ruled on May 9th that Hayashi’s conduct did not constitute power harassment.

First and Second Grade Report Cards to Be Discontinued at Gifu Elementary Schools

Gifu’s Mino City has announced that elementary schools will no longer issue report cards for first and second graders starting this academic year, citing concerns over unnecessary feelings of inferiority and the difficulty of report card language for young children.

Tokyo International School to Relocate to Takanawa Gateway City in 2026

Tokyo International School has announced plans to relocate to a new, purpose-built campus in Takanawa Gateway City, with the move scheduled for August 2026. The relocation marks a major milestone in the school's growth strategy, aimed at expanding its educational offerings and embracing Tokyo’s emerging innovation district.

Number of Children in Japan Falls for 44th Straight Year

Japan’s child population has declined for the 44th consecutive year, reaching the lowest level since comparable records began in 1950, according to government estimates released ahead of Children's Day on May 5th.

Head Lice Are Spreading Again in Japan's Schools

Head lice, small parasitic insects that feed on blood from the scalp, are once again spreading among children in Japan as physical contact increases following the COVID-19 pandemic. In Sapporo, where outbreaks have been reported in schools, local officials are urging caution.

Everything You Need to Know About Medical Certificate Online 2025

A medical certificate, which is frequently a straightforward document, has several vital functions and is important. It mainly certifies a person's health and is essential in several circumstances, including school enrollment, employment applications, and even acquiring legal licenses.

Kyoto Notre Dame Women's University to Close Amid Enrollment Decline

Kyoto Notre Dame Women's University, a prestigious all-women’s college with over 60 years of history, has announced that it will stop accepting new students from next academic year.

Rise of Tokugawa Ieyasu - Sengoku Jidai - History of Japan DOCUMENTARY

The animated historical series Kings and Generals continues its in-depth exploration of Japanese history with a new series focused on the Sengoku Jidai period. (Kings and Generals)

< 2 3 4 5 >