Japan's health ministry sets new sleep guidelines

TOKYO, Dec 22 (News On Japan) - Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has finalized a comprehensive guideline to promote better sleep health, advocating over 6 hours of shut-eye for adults, and 9 to 12 hours for elementary school kids.

While recognizing that sleep needs can vary from person to person, the Ministry's guidelines, released Thursday, suggest a range of 8 to 10 hours for junior high and high school students and 9 to 12 hours for elementary school children. These recommendations aim to cater to the distinct developmental and health needs of each age group.

In contrast, for elderly individuals, the guidelines recommend limiting time in bed to no more than 8 hours. This recommendation is based on studies indicating potential health risks associated with prolonged bed rest in older adults.

The guidelines also offer advice on enhancing sleep quality. Key suggestions include not bringing smartphones into the sleeping area, maintaining a dark environment in the bedroom, and avoiding alcohol before bedtime.

by Brian Dentry

Japan's Agriculture Ministry Urges Nationwide Action to Combat Avian Flu

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

Japan's Year-End Jumbo Lottery Kicks Off Nationwide

Sales for the Year-End Jumbo Lottery, which offers a combined prize of 1 billion yen for the first prize and adjacent prizes, have officially begun.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Education NEWS

Kirin - The Most Majestic Creature of Japanese Folklore

The Kirin is a mythical Japanese creature, a symbol of prosperity and good luck. It appears in times of transition, such as the birth of leaders, indicating blessings and divine protection. (See U in History / Mythology)

The Most Badass Female Shogun, Hojo Masako

What would you do if you changed from a nobody into one of the most powerful people in the country, overnight? Hojo Masako 北条政子 was the wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of Japan’s first shogunate. (Linfamy)

Draw a Stunning Horse with Just Circles! Beginner-Friendly Sketch Technique

Discover how to create a realistic horse sketch using simple circles and ovals! ????In this video, Harumichi Shibasaki guides you step by step, showing how to use pencils, light, and shadow to bring your drawing to life. (Watercolor by Shibasaki)

Teachers in Japan Demand Better Pay and Conditions

Education groups in Japan representing 23 organizations issued an urgent statement criticizing a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to gradually raise the 'teaching adjustment allowance' to 10% as part of work reform measures. The proposal was deemed 'unrealistic,' sparking opposition from educators.