Society

Tokyo Launches Marriage App

TOKYO, Sep 22 (News On Japan) - Tokyo has launched an official matchmaking app in an effort to increase the number of marriages, particularly as the city struggles with the lowest birthrate in Japan.

The app requires users to register personal information, including photos, income, and marital history. The goal is to use AI to match people based on their preferences for appearance, age, and income. The app charges a registration fee of 11,000 yen for two years, making it an official initiative to tackle declining birthrates.

We spoke to various individuals about their thoughts on the app and their own experiences with relationships. Some shared traditional methods of meeting partners, such as arranged meetings or introductions through friends. Others, particularly younger people, noted the convenience of having personal information upfront, making it easier to filter potential partners and use their time more effectively.

Despite the convenience, opinions were mixed. Some felt that relying on conditions like income or appearance doesn't reveal enough about a person's character, while others valued the structured approach for its time-saving benefits. According to the Children and Family Agency, one in four marriages now begins through an app, highlighting the growing role of digital matchmaking in modern relationships. However, those with decades of marriage under their belts emphasized that understanding a partner takes time, and initial conditions don’t always determine long-term compatibility.

Source: ANN

Japan–China Tensions Deepen as Cancellations Surge

Tensions between Japan and China have escalated rapidly following remarks by Prime Minister Takaichi in the Diet regarding a potential contingency involving Taiwan, prompting Beijing to introduce a series of countermeasures including a call for citizens to refrain from traveling to Japan, with the impact already spreading across the Kansai region’s economy.

Oita Fire Brought Under Control

A large-scale fire in Oita City’s Saganoseki district entered its third day on November 20th, and although authorities declared the blaze “brought under control” late in the morning, firefighters continued battling smoldering hotspots across the affected area as a full extinguishment remained out of reach.

Princess Aiko Travels To Northern Laos

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Japan Expecting Warm Three-Day Weekend

The three-day weekend beginning on November 22nd is expected to bring mostly clear skies across much of the country as Japan comes under the influence of a high-pressure system, with cooler air affecting only the northern regions on the first day and comfortable conditions likely to continue in eastern and western Japan.

Chinese State Media Attack Japan as Flight Cancellations Surge

China’s Communist Party–affiliated Global Times reported on its front page this morning that it had “demanded a clear explanation from the Japanese side” regarding the discussions held on the previous day, underscoring Beijing’s position that Tokyo must address the issue directly.

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