Announcement of the “e Lycoris Recoil” Premium Fan Trial Event
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark the nationwide rollout of “e Lycoris Recoil,” a premium fan trial event will be held. The event is open not only to pachinko fans but also to people who have never played pachinko and fans of “Lycoris Recoil.” A play-instruction corner for pachinko beginners will let visitors experience how to play and enjoy pachinko. Pachinko writers will participate, along with cosplayers Iori Moe and Kokoro Shinozaki, and a mini photo session will be held. Special merchandise will be available to visitors.
A rare regional community hub with “6 integrated functions” opens nationwide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アゼリーグループ will open a community-focused complex called “A-Cube” in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo. Starting April 1, 2026, it will bring together 6 functions—elder care, disability welfare, childcare, after-school care, and child development support—aiming to realize a community where people can live together across generational and disability divides.
[New Service Launch] AX Agent Suite for Production Management, an AI production management agent that reduces reliance on individual workers and automates operations, now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
INDUSTRIAL-X has launched “AX Agent Suite for 生産管理,” which reduces reliance on individual workers at manufacturing sites and automates operations. The AI agent supports optimal decision-making based on real-time data and promotes data-driven management.
In collaboration with Osaka Seikei College, develops tote bags dyed with Kurokawa-produced chrysanthemum charcoal / Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture, has jointly developed tote bags dyed with Ichinoko charcoal (chrysanthemum charcoal), a specialty of the Kurokawa district, in collaboration with the Department of Lifestyle Design at Osaka Seikei College. As part of an industry-government-academia collaboration, the project developed dye by grinding fragments of chrysanthemum charcoal down to nanoscale. Fabric dyed with the resulting dye was used to make tote bags incorporating ideas from students. The bags are scheduled to be registered as hometown tax donation gifts in March of Reiwa 8.
MUJI to launch seasonal chilled foods that are easy to eat even during extreme heat
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
良品計画 will launch seasonal chilled foods, including its “Chilled Ochazuke” and “Sauce for Noodles” series, to make meals easier to enjoy during hot weather. The products will go on sale at MUJI stores nationwide and online starting April 8. The “Chilled Ochazuke” series will add a new product, “Nagano’s Yatara,” while the “Sauce for Noodles” series will feature 3 types of sauce. The standard “Pour Over Rice: Chilled” and “Curry to Eat Chilled” series will also return this year. These products are easy to prepare without using a stove and are designed to be easy to eat even when you have little appetite.
Instagram automation tool “エルグラム” adds a “Next Post” feature to its auto-reply function
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new auto-reply option, “Next Post,” has been added to “エルグラム,” an Instagram management efficiency system provided by 株式会社ミショナ. The feature reduces the effort required to manually link content in advance.
TrustYou expands integrations with hotel property management systems (PMS), ramping up the launch of its customer data platform (CDP) in Japan to unify customer data and enhance the customer experience.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TrustYou株式会社 has expanded its integrations with major hotel property management systems (PMS) and ramped up the rollout of its customer data platform (CDP) in Japan. This enables hotels to unify customer data and provide personalized guest experiences while building repeat business.
Companies mentioned：TrustYou GmbH、TrustYou株式会社、Oracle Hospitality OPERA Cloud、SIHOT、Apaleo
[Multiple Masters World Records and Japanese Records at the Tokyo Olympics Venue!] Japanese lifesavers’ swimming abilities are improving, leading to the closest competition yet at the 38th All Japan Lifesaving Pool Championships!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On February 21–22, 2026, the Japan Lifesaving Association held the 38th All Japan Lifesaving Pool Championships. Numerous Japanese and world records were set in the youth and masters categories.
コンテックス to hold April-only pop-up event at Imabari Towel Minami-Aoyama Store: 12 days to find “just the right thing for someone, somewhere”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Imabari Towel,” a Japan brand promoted by 今治タオル工業組合, will hold its 22nd maker pop-up event at its official shop, Imabari Towel Minami-Aoyama Store. コンテックス株式会社 will take part this time, presenting and selling products that evoke everyday life with towels under the theme “Valuing individuality over efficiency.” The event will run from April 16 to April 27.
[Taste-test 6 varieties of Japanese strawberries. Strawberry-filled sweets and savory treats] “Strawberry Afternoon Tea” at DEK, a restaurant run by a long-established produce wholesaler (April 2–May 6)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社 f.dining will hold “Strawberry Afternoon Tea” at the restaurant DEK from April 2 to May 6, 2026. Drawing on the expertise of a long-established produce wholesaler, it will offer tastings of 6 varieties of Japanese strawberries, along with sweets and savory dishes generously made with strawberries.
Popular voice actor Mika Kohinata joins streamer collaboration platform “GAMEmate”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Mika Kohinata, a popular voice actor, has begun seeking collaborators for game-streaming broadcasts on “GAMEmate,” a streamer collaboration platform operated by 株式会社mate. The initiative offers fans a new opportunity to interact directly with a voice actor.
A serious contest to determine the best in incident response. “PagerDuty Challenge Cup 2026” final set for Wednesday, April 15!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PagerDuty株式会社 has announced that it will hold “PagerDuty Tech Day 2026” on April 15, 2026, featuring the final of the “PagerDuty Challenge Cup 2026,” a competition testing incident response skills.
[Survey of 300 people starting a new life] About 90% are considering reviewing fixed expenses; most plan to save the money freed up, with investing in 2nd place
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey of 300 people starting a new life amid rising prices found that about 90% are considering reviewing their fixed expenses. Many intend to put the money they save toward savings or investments.
[Free webinar] From original idea to moving experience: Key companies supporting today’s experience design to speak at “The Present State of Experience Creativity” — 3tc online seminar, 2nd installment
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A free webinar, “The Present State of Experience Creativity,” will feature key companies that support both content and systems in today’s experience design. The first installment featured the CEO of enigma, who spoke about balancing creativity and stability through organizational strength.
[Survey on attitudes toward emergency contraceptive pills (morning-after pills) and contraception]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey in Japan on attitudes toward emergency contraceptive pills (morning-after pills) and contraception found that 66.3% of respondents had experienced contraceptive failure. Access to emergency contraceptive pills is limited, while 85.2% support sales at pharmacies. Delays in disseminating knowledge remain a challenge.
Complete surveying using only 3D point clouds: A new challenge by a private-sector company putting point clouds to work
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JFD Engineering has established a technology that completes surveying using only 3D point-cloud scanners, without total stations, and conducts 6,000 surveys annually.
Supply chain risk management service provider 株式会社Resilire joins the Japan Auto Parts Industries Association (JAPIA) as a full member
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Resilire has joined the Japan Auto Parts Industries Association (JAPIA) as a full member. Through JAPIA’s activities, the company aims to help strengthen supply chains specific to the automotive industry, share industry-standard risk management knowledge, and support responses to economic security challenges. Yudai Tsuda, the company’s representative director and CEO, commented that it will use technology to make hidden risks visible and contribute to Japan’s automotive industry. JAPIA is made up of 433 member companies and aims to promote the sound development of the auto parts industry.
Obituary notification and condolence service “tsunagoo” surpasses 580,000 cumulative web obituary notifications!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The obituary notification and condolence service “tsunagoo,” provided by 株式会社アスカネット, has surpassed 580,000 cumulative obituary notifications since its launch in 2017. Adopted by more than 3,800 venues nationwide, “tsunagoo” is the funeral industry’s No. 1 “funeral tech” service, distributing approximately 110,000 obituaries annually. Its social media integration and online condolence gift and offering-ordering features promote digitalization of operations traditionally centered on phone and fax, helping ease the burden on bereaved families, attendees and funeral service providers. In 2023, the number of funeral halls nationwide exceeded 10,000, showing that digitalization of funerals meets a societal need.
QommonsAI adds a “new hierarchical structure” to Private Knowledge. Organize government documents with folder management up to 5 levels deep and 3-tier role permissions, fundamentally transforming AI response accuracy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Polimill株式会社 has implemented a “new hierarchical structure for Private Knowledge” in QommonsAI, its generative AI for government agencies. The update enables folder management up to 5 levels deep and instant RAG conversion from existing folders, addressing local governments’ challenges in leveraging knowledge.
Announcement on Selection for the Domestic General-Purpose Robot Development Competition
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社EmplifAI has been selected for the “Domestic General-Purpose Robot Development Competition,” run by the AI Robot Association (AIRoA), as the representative company of a consortium made up of multiple companies. The competition is part of a commissioned project by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), a national research and development agency. Drawing on its expertise in robotics and AI technology development, EmplifAI will contribute to the development and social implementation of domestically developed general-purpose robots. The company is broadly exploring collaboration with development partners and component suppliers, and welcomes inquiries from companies and organizations interested in working together.
A must-see for tourism businesses, local government officials and theme park professionals! Free webinar on “Hinecha Tourism,” exploring the city on an NFR-01 Pro+ compact electric scooter, to be held April 22 (Wednesday) at 15:00
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
glafit株式会社 will hold a free webinar on April 22 about “Hinecha Tourism,” a new experiential tourism concept using compact electric scooters. The webinar will share know-how with tourism businesses, including ways to increase visitor circulation.
“Brown Dust 2” to hold a revival collaboration with “Shinobi Master Senran Kagura NEW LINK”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A revival collaboration with the popular game “Shinobi Master Senran Kagura NEW LINK” will be held in NEOWIZ’s RPG “Brown Dust 2” starting April 9, 2026. A season event featuring the addition of a new character, Ikaruga, and mini-games will take place.
“GONNA DAYS,” a salad and deli shop putting vegetables center stage, opens its first location at Daimaru Tokyo, directly connected to Tokyo Station! Salads, deli items and rice bowls made with vegetables from its own farm on sale for a limited time starting April 15
Promo Tool’s No. 1 young perfumer Takeshi Watanabe appointed deputy director of the Fragrance Technology Research Institute — New structure puts him at the core of research and product development
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
プロモツール株式会社 has appointed young perfumer Takeshi Watanabe (30) deputy director of its Fragrance Technology Research Institute. The company is integrating research and product development as it moves to a new organizational structure.
Turn “thank you” into a keepsake for Mother’s Day. “My Certificate of Commendation” adds templates for Mother’s Day — Mother’s Day thank-you campaign also underway
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社サムライソード has added ready-made text templates for Mother’s Day to “マイ表彰状,” a service for expressing gratitude on the occasion. Users can give their mothers a heartfelt “thank you” in the form of an original certificate featuring memories and personal stories, or use a ready-made text template to create one easily. In addition, from April 1 to May 29, 2026, the “Mother’s Day Thank-You Campaign” is underway, offering a chance to win an Amazon gift card worth 1,000 yen through a follow and repost of the official My Series X account.
Screening on 4/11 (Saturday) to mark the 35th anniversary of the anime “Doomed Megalopolis” and its Blu-ray release — “Kato is coming!”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
An all-at-once screening event marking the 35th anniversary of the anime “Doomed Megalopolis” and the release of its Blu-ray will be held at 新文芸坐 in Ikebukuro on April 11, 2026. Producer Masao Maruyama and Shinji Higuchi, among others, will appear.
Experience creating your first 3DGS model. Free seminar featuring the latest handheld scanner “PortalCam” to be held for the first time in Toranomon, Tokyo | April 24, 2026 (Friday) [first 5 applicants]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社セキド will hold a free hands-on seminar on creating 3DGS models using XGRIDS社’s latest handheld scanner, “PortalCam,” in Toranomon, Tokyo, on April 24, 2026. Capacity is limited to the first 5 applicants.
On April 1, 2026, SBCメディカルグループ held its 2026 entrance ceremony at the National Yoyogi Stadium Second Gymnasium. A total of 734 people, including doctors and nurses, joined the organization, which aims to expand its business and improve the quality of its medical services.
“SmaGO” compacting smart trash bins installed at “Arc Town Utsunomiya,” a new park in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Two “SmaGO” smart trash bins that automatically compact waste were installed at “Arc Town Utsunomiya,” a new park in Utsunomiya that opened on March 28, 2026. The installation aims to improve cleaning efficiency and maintain the park’s appearance.
ArkEdge Space wins the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency President’s Award at the 7th Space Development and Utilization Awards
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ArkEdge Space won the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency President’s Award at the 7th Space Development and Utilization Awards, organized by the Cabinet Office. The company has established a mass-production model for multipurpose 6U microsatellites in collaboration with the Nakasuka-Funase-Igari Laboratory at the University of Tokyo and Seiren. During the 1-year period from December 2024 to November 2025, it achieved the launch into orbit and commencement of operations of 9 satellites, setting a record for Japanese organizations over a 12-month period. Through its satellite data utilization platform “ArkEdge Insights,” the company is promoting the social implementation of satellite data in Japan and overseas.
GMO Tenbin AI launches personalization features! “AI Memory” and “Secret Chat” now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Starting April 1, 2026, GMO天秤AI株式会社 began offering “Personalization” for “Tenbin AI byGMO” and “Tenbin AI Biz byGMO.” The feature includes “AI Memory,” which lets the AI remember users’ preferences, work styles and writing styles from past conversations. “Secret Chat,” which enables privacy-focused conversations that do not appear in chat history, is also available; conversation content is permanently deleted after 30 days.
横浜ベイホテル東急 has begun offering limited-time “Mother’s Day and Father’s Day” plans at its restaurants. Options include a special course at the French restaurant “Queen Alice.”
Tickets now on sale for “Genso Enbu,” a spectacular collaborative performance by dancer Kazuhiro Nishijima, Japanese dance artist Naozo Fujima and taiko drummer Kyoichi Iwakiri!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tickets are now on sale for “Genso Enbu,” a collaborative performance by dancer Kazuhiro Nishijima, Japanese dance artist Naozo Fujima and taiko drummer Kyoichi Iwakiri. The event will be held in Shibuya on June 20, 2026.
The Bellmark movement is marking its 65th anniversary, and the 3 Gold Prize and 12 Silver Prize winning designs in the T-shirt design contest held by the Bellmark Education Assistance Foundation have been selected. A total of 250 entries were submitted by participants ranging from elementary school students to middle-aged and older adults. The Gold Prize designs will be made into T-shirts and presented to the winners. The Bellmark Foundation was established in 1960 and currently has about 25,000 participating schools and organizations. With cumulative deposits of more than 30 billion yen, it has provided more than 5 billion yen in assistance.
[リゾナーレ熱海] “Can Can Beer Garden” to be held, offering views of spectacular scenery and a chance to discover 100 types of canned foods and 20 types of craft canned beer
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リゾナーレ熱海 will hold “Can Can Beer Garden” starting June 1, 2026. This limited-time event offers 100 types of canned foods, a specialty of Shizuoka, and 20 types of craft beer alongside spectacular views.
Legendary regular radio show returns! Ayataka presents “Hikaru Utada’s Tres Bien Bohemian Special 2026”; messages now being accepted from listeners. World premiere full broadcast of a new song also planned
“Kimachi Onsen Omori no Yu,” a day-use hot spring in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, produced by Onsen Dojo, to grand open on April 15, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Kimachi Onsen Omori no Yu,” a day-use hot spring in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, produced by Onsen Dojo, will grand open on April 15, 2026. It is operated by Omori no Yu Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Sanbiru Holdings, and is a renovated version of a bathing facility that opened in 2001. Admission is 880 yen for adults on weekdays and 980 yen on weekends and holidays; for children, it is 350 yen on weekdays and 400 yen on weekends and holidays.
A live show listened to through earphones? Technics holds a silent music event, featuring STUTS, DJ ZAI and others
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Panasonic held the “SILENT BLOCK PARTY by Technics” music event at THE ROOM in Shibuya on March 2, 2026, using the Technics EAH-AZ100 fully wireless earbuds and the new Auracast feature. Attendees wore earbuds and experienced high-quality music without sound being played through the venue’s speakers. DJ ZAI, STUTS and Akihisa Kitasato performed, and 100% of attendees said their favorable impression of the Technics brand had improved.
“LOGOS Match Day” to be held at Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath’s final Japan Rugby League One home game!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Logos Corporation will hold “LOGOS Match Day” at Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath’s home game at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium on Sunday, May 10, 2026. LOGOS Family members will be invited free of charge, and children selected by lottery will be able to welcome the players as tunnel kids. A range of family-friendly activities will be offered, including sales of limited-edition items, rugby experiences and a picnic area. A cooldown product jointly developed with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath will also be on sale.
Original本日21:00よりLeminoで独占無料配信開始！『PRODUCE 101 JAPAN 新世界』 #2「101 SPECIAL BUDDY」に就任したINIメンバーがサプライズ登場
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original株式会社NTTドコモが運営する映像配信サービス「Lemino®」において、2026年4月2日21:00よりサバイバルオーディション番組『PRODUCE 101 JAPAN 新世界』の＃2が独占無料配信されます。この番組では、デビューメンバーが12名で日韓同時デビューが発表されており、SNSでも注目を集めています。さらに、練習生をサポートする「101 SPECIAL BUDDY」としてINIメンバーがサプライズ登場します。投票期間は2026年3月26日から4月17日AM4:00までで、Leminoアプリをダウンロードすると追加投票が可能です。
[Fukuoka] Sold-out “Puku Puku Stickers” return! A pop-up store for “Tabekko Doubutsu LAND,” which has surpassed 320,000 visitors, will run for a limited time at ららぽーと福岡 starting Wednesday, April 8!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ギンビス’s “Tabekko Doubutsu LAND” pop-up store will run for a limited time at ららぽーと福岡 starting April 8. The popular “Puku Puku Stickers,” which sold out previously, will also return.
Komeri supports customers' everyday lives with approximately 2,000 items under its “Low Prices Every Day” commitment!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Komeri Co., Ltd. is running its “Low Prices Every Day” campaign at Komeri stores nationwide, offering about 2,000 items at low prices, primarily Komeri original products. Recommended products for April include floor wet wipes (198 yen), plastic bags (398 yen), cotton knit pillowcases (598 yen) and drainage stones for pots (628 yen). The company was established in July 1962, has capital of 18.802 billion yen, and is headed by President Yuichiro Sasage. As of March 31, 2026, it operates 1,234 stores.
AI video generation service “Artist AI VIDEO,” also equipped with editing features, launches Thursday, April 2
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Sourcenext will launch “Artist AI VIDEO,” an AI video generation service that can create and edit high-quality videos from text and images, on April 2. The service was developed by Richdale Ventures and runs in a browser, with no installation required. It uses a subscription pricing model, with Standard and Pro versions available for prices ranging from 12,857 yen to 154,286 yen, including tax, depending on the subscription period.
株式会社アイエスエフネット welcomed 25 new employees and held an entrance ceremony on April 1, 2026. Executives, including Representative Director Yukiyoshi Watanabe, offered words of welcome and encouragement, and a representative of the new employees delivered a statement of resolve. The company is an IT infrastructure firm with about 2,300 engineers and offices in Japan and overseas.
“Compass for HR Leaders,” a radio program from Radio NIKKEI, Otobank and Nihon no Jinjibu; April guest is Tatsuaki Masui of Megane Top Co., Ltd.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Radio NIKKEI and Otobank jointly broadcast the radio program “Compass for HR Leaders,” with the cooperation of Nihon no Jinjibu. The April guest is Tatsuaki Masui, general manager of the Education Department in the Human Resources Development Division at Megane Top Co., Ltd. After joining Megane Top in 2007, Masui worked as a sales associate and store manager before spending 14 years in employee development. The program will introduce initiatives such as a “mentor system” and “skills check sheet,” which have helped improve new employee retention. The audiobook.jp Corporate Version unlimited listening plan offers more than 15,000 titles, mainly business books, and audiobook.jp surpassed 3 million members in February 2024.
“Demolition Cost AI” releases “Eligibility Checker” for municipal demolition subsidies: AI automatically searches for available subsidies using only an address and building information
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Mycat has released “Eligibility Checker” through “Demolition Cost AI,” enabling users to automatically search for municipal demolition subsidies by entering an address and building information. The tool supports decision-making to help address the vacant home problem.
Experience coexistence with wild birds at Kyobashi Hill in Tokyo Square Garden; regenerative “Kyobashi Nest Boxes” made from recycled construction waste installed, with a viewing exhibit featuring live camera footage from inside the boxes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
東京建物 and 博展 have installed “Kyobashi Nest Boxes,” birdhouses made from recycled construction waste, at Kyobashi Hill in Tokyo Square Garden.
The Boshi Mo maternal and child health handbook app launches in Ikeda Town, Nagano Prefecture!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Boshi Mo maternal and child health handbook app, operated by 母子モ, launched in Ikeda Town, Nagano Prefecture, as “Ikeda Children at the Center Navigator” on April 1. As part of its child-rearing support, Ikeda Town provides congratulatory payments of 20,000 yen for newborns, 50,000 yen when children enter elementary school, and 30,000 yen when they enter junior high school. The app includes features for managing vaccination schedules and recording health checkup results, and has been adopted by more than 830 municipalities nationwide.
2 new e-learning courses launching in April 2026 to teach practical data analysis skills and DX case studies in retail
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本能率協会マネジメントセンター（JMAM） will launch 2 new courses in April 2026 on its corporate education platform, “eラーニングライブラリ®.” The courses, “DX Trends to Know: Retail” and “Practical Data Analysis Through Survey Design,” will support DX promotion in the retail industry and the development of practical data analysis skills. More than 18,000 companies and organizations have adopted eラーニングライブラリ®, and more than 4.4 million people have taken its courses to date. JMAM was spun off from 日本能率協会, founded in 1942, in 1991 and provides human resource development support, publishing, and planner services.
Prepaid digital currency pixivcoban marks its 2nd anniversary! Cumulative users surpassed 140,000 in 2 years. Bonus coban campaign offers up to 5%!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Prepaid digital currency pixivcoban, operated by ピクシブ株式会社, marked the 2nd anniversary of its launch on April 2, 2026. Cumulative users surpassed 140,000 over 2 years, and the company is marking the occasion with its “Get up to 5% guaranteed! Bonus Coban Campaign.” Charging options including au PAY and AEON Pay, as well as services where pixivcoban can be used, including pixivFACTORY and pixivコミック, have also expanded, improving convenience.
電通総研 and 日本ファクトチェックセンター announced the results of “電通総研 Compass vol.17: Information Integrity Survey 2026” on April 2, 2026. The survey was conducted from January 30 to February 1, 2026, among 5,000 men and women aged 15–69 nationwide, under the supervision of Professor Shinichi Yamaguchi of the Center for Global Communications at the International University of Japan. The findings highlighted people’s vulnerability to false and misleading information and their limited understanding of the concept of the digital information environment. The report points to the need for highly public-minded online services and education at school and at home to improve information literacy.
[Health Management Seminar] The 3rd installment of the Health Management Terakoya Series! Is your “Health Management Declaration” just for show? On-site consultants reveal 5 key questions and how to engage the “uninterested group” that makes up 80% of an organization — April 15, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社FiNC Technologies will hold a free webinar on health management, the “3rd installment of the Health Management Terakoya Series,” on April 15, 2026. The webinar will share know-how for companies prone to letting health management become a formality, including how to engage the uninterested group that makes up 80% of an organization and help executives recognize it as an investment in human capital. The speaker will be FiNC Technologies health management consultant Tsunenori Asakura, who has supported organizational improvement at more than 100 companies. Participation is free, with advance registration required.
“Yoko Umakoshi Obuse Memorial Museum,” featuring works that capture the surge of life, opens April 25. The venue also includes a cafe overlooking the Northern Shinano Five Peaks, with advance tickets on sale through ArtSticker
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Yoko Umakoshi Obuse Memorial Museum will grand-open in Obuse Town, Nagano Prefecture, on April 25, 2026. A ticketing system connected to The Chain Museum’s art communication platform ArtSticker has been introduced. The museum will permanently exhibit 53 signature works by painter Yoko Umakoshi and also house YMAM CAFE.
小林製薬 will launch “心はなやぐ優雅なホワイトソープ,” a new addition to its 消臭元SAVON air freshener and deodorizer series, nationwide on April 16, 2026. The product features a white-soap-style fragrance and comes in 2 formats: a main unit and a refill. Its environmentally conscious design reduces disposal weight by approximately 76% when the refill is used. Both formats are open-price products, with a capacity of 400 mL each.
Did you know 資さんうどん serves a “morning set” available only in the morning?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
資さんうどん serves its “morning set” exclusively from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. Prices start in the 500-yen range, with the meat udon set priced at 560 yen and the chicken udon set at 530 yen. The menu also includes items such as a salmon set for 590 yen, available only in Kyushu and Yamaguchi. The current LINE coupon for 50 yen off can also be used for morning sets. 株式会社資さん was founded in 1976 and operates more than 100 stores across 1 metropolis, 1 prefecture, and 16 other prefectures.
Supporting sustainable worksites with zero-emission solutions: sales begin for the ZX55U-6EB electric excavator
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アクティオ began handling the ZX55U-6EB, a battery-powered electric excavator made by 日立建機, on April 2. The machine supports the development of sustainable worksites with zero emissions and reduced noise.
PHONE APPLI recognized as a “Welfare Benefits Promotion Corporation” in Hataraku Yell 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社PHONE APPLI has been recognized as a “Welfare Benefits Promotion Corporation” for the 2nd consecutive year under the Hataraku Yell 2026 welfare benefits awards and certification program.
Popular illustrator NAPPY and Watts team up for a 2nd collaboration, bringing new “softly cute for adults” cosmetics
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワッツ is launching a 2nd collaboration with popular illustrator NAPPY, introducing new cosmetics themed “softly cute for adults.” The lineup includes 17 items, such as lip products, eyeshadow, and bangs powder, and will be sold at 389 stores nationwide. ワッツ was established on February 22, 1995, with capital of ¥440.29 million, and operates 100-yen shops and other businesses.
Minecraft backpacks available for preorder again this year! 3 new colors join the lineup, bringing the total to 6.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
インフォレンズ has opened preorders for its Minecraft backpacks for children entering school in April 2027. Following a strong reception since the first release in 2024, the lineup is expanding with 3 new colors to a total of 6. Preorders opened on March 27, 2026, and shipments are scheduled to begin around February 2027. Under the early-bird preorder campaign, the regular price of 79,200 yen is discounted by 10% to 71,280 yen, and customers receive a keychain worth 990 yen.
[Hinodeya Seika Sangyo × Kataller Toyama] Sure to sell out! Toyama specialty Shiroebi Kiko “Kataller Toyama Original Package” goes on sale in limited quantities from Sunday, April 5! Includes 1 photo-booth-style sticker
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hinodeya Seika Sangyo, founded 102 years ago, will release “Shiroebi Kiko Kataller Toyama Original Package,” a collaboration with Kataller Toyama, in limited quantities starting Sunday, April 5, 2026. A popular product that has sold out every time since its launch in 2024, this edition includes 1 photo-booth-style sticker featuring a player. It is priced at 1,200 yen, including tax, and will be sold at Kataller Toyama home games, the official online store, and 4 Lawson stores in the prefecture, among other locations. Hinodeya Seika Sangyo was founded in 1924, has capital of 80 million yen and employs 344 people (as of the end of November 2025).
This season, as pollen-related discomfort lingers, a “Sauna Event to Refresh Your Nose and Body” is being held at 30 Gokurakuyu and RAKU SPA locations nationwide!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gokurakuyu Co., Ltd. will hold a “Sauna Event to Refresh Your Nose and Body” at 30 Gokurakuyu and RAKU SPA locations nationwide for 2 days, April 11 and 12, 2026. The event will feature “scented saunas” equipped with aroma pods containing natural essential oils, as well as aromatic water for löyly. The blended essential oils were developed by KaleidoPath Co., Ltd., with advice from Kentaro Hashimoto, who works on sauna-related projects. The event does not treat or prevent symptoms such as hay fever, and people with health concerns are advised to consult a doctor.
Continued to receive high ratings and approval under the “Navy Certification” of 経済産業省’s “Omotenashi Certification” program and the “Service Excellence SE Maturity Assessment”
Colliers publishes “Asia Pacific Investment Insights | March 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Colliers Japan has published “Asia Pacific Investment Insights | March 2026,” a report on real estate investment trends in APAC. Total investment in 2025 rose 8% year on year to $162 billion, signaling a market recovery.
Support for dedicated bicycle lanes stands at 45% in Japan, “the lowest worldwide”; 40% say they “can’t say either way”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Ipsos has released its “Mobility Report 2026.” Japan ranked last among 31 countries for support for installing dedicated bicycle lanes, at 45%, and 40% of respondents said they “can’t say either way.”
[Largest-ever brand store] LOWYA to open a physical store at Canal City Hakata East Building in fall 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Vega Corporation will open a physical store for its furniture and interior brand LOWYA at Canal City Hakata East Building in Fukuoka in fall 2026. The store is set to have the largest sales floor of any LOWYA physical store. LOWYA has opened 13 stores nationwide since 2023, and its 3D interior design app OkuROOM, released in winter 2024, surpassed 750,000 cumulative downloads in December 2025.
[8.8 times the stock part!?] Feel the difference the moment you fire! Heavy-duty custom part unleashes a hugely popular gas gun! “Tokyo Marui M4A1 MWS Heavyweight Buffer Spring Guide” goes on sale in mid-May 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LayLax has announced the “Tokyo Marui M4A1 MWS Heavyweight Buffer Spring Guide,” a custom part for gas guns weighing 211 g, about 8.8 times the weight of the stock part. Precisely machined from steel, it is designed to enhance the impact of the blowback and is scheduled to go on sale in mid-May 2026. The price is 6,500 yen before tax, and it is compatible with a wide range of models, including the M4A1 MWS and CQBR Block 1.
Can you correctly explain “what a KPI is”? Practical seminar on KPI management to build a “self-directing, self-renewing organization”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CodeTakt will hold an online seminar on April 21, 2026, featuring KPI management expert Ryuichiro Nakao. The seminar will cover designing and operating KPIs to develop self-directed talent.
Agreement signed with Hanoi University of Science and Technology to accept international students
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Alpha Club Musashino has signed an agreement with Vietnam’s Hanoi University of Science and Technology to accept international students. The company aims to provide students with education and practical work opportunities in Japan and train bridge systems engineers and technical leaders using AI and IT. It currently operates 146 ceremony halls and 4 wedding venues, with about 400,000 members. As part of its digital transformation efforts, it also offers services such as a metaverse cemetery and AI Buddhist altars.
OiTr installed at Musashino Art University’s Takanodai Campus in Kodaira, Tokyo! Free sanitary pads to be made available in women’s restroom stalls at a campus where the next generation of artists and creators study
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Oitr Co., Ltd. installed 10 units of OiTr, its free sanitary pad service, at Musashino Art University’s Takanodai Campus and launched the service on April 1, 2026. Sanitary pads are now available free of charge in the university’s women’s restrooms. OiTr has been installed at 367 facilities across 34 prefectures, for a total of 4,120 units. Its dedicated app also offers period predictions and health management features. Oitr Co., Ltd. aims to use business solutions to address the social issue of period poverty.
Keystone, a U.S. subsidiary, wins the 2026 CACM Vision Award for corporate culture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Keystone, the U.S. subsidiary of Nippon Kanzai Holdings, has won the corporate culture award for the Southern California region at the 2026 CACM Vision Award.
Companies mentioned：日本管財ホールディングス株式会社、Keystone Pacific Property Management, LLC、California Association of Community Managers
Broadcasting from Japan’s only “flying car showroom”—DBA to hold 3rd “Drone Business Study Session” in hybrid format (Okayama and Zoom) on April 14
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Drone Business Support Association (DBA) will hold its 3rd “Drone Business Study Session” in a hybrid format on April 14, 2026. The venues will be Kurashiki Flying Car Showroom, Japan’s only permanent flying car exhibition space, and Zoom. The session will systematically cover practical knowledge not taught in the national drone certification program, including cost estimates, analysis of violation cases and risk management. Part 1 is open to the public, while Part 2 is for members only. Participants can join from anywhere in Japan.
APAMAN and SYLA partner to tackle the severe rental housing shortage in the Tokyo metropolitan area
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Syla Holdings and APAMAN have partnered to address the severe shortage of rental housing in the greater Tokyo area. Newly built rental apartments in central Tokyo developed by Syla will be offered exclusively in advance through APAMAN’s network, enabling rapid information delivery to customers and a stable supply of housing.
Exploring new ways to “make effective use of” stress checks! Post-project report released on a demonstration project examining the link with women’s health issues
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社With Midwife has published a post-project report on a demonstration project examining the relationship between health issues specific to women and stress-check indicators. The findings suggested a certain degree of correlation between the two.
Tachikawa Blind launches “bottom-load specification” for Place movable storage partition
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
立川ブラインド工業 will add a “bottom-load specification,” which requires no ceiling reinforcement, to its “プレイス” movable storage partition, and launch it on May 1, 2026. The product addresses demand for flexible space design in offices and stores.
2026 survey: Top 3 occupations that new first-graders want to pursue and parents want their children to pursue are “cake shop/bakery,” “police officer” and “athlete”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クラレ surveyed a total of 8,000 children entering elementary school in April 2026 and their parents about the occupations they want to pursue and the occupations parents want their children to pursue. The top 3 occupations children wanted to pursue overall were “cake shop/bakery,” “police officer” and “athlete.” For boys, the leading choices were “police officer,” “athlete” and “firefighter/rescue worker”; for girls, they were “cake shop/bakery,” “entertainer/singer/model” and “ice cream shop worker.” Among parents, the top 3 occupations they wanted their sons to pursue were “public servant,” “company employee” and “doctor,” while for daughters they were “public servant,” “nurse” and “company employee.” “Firefighter/rescue worker” gained popularity among both boys and girls, and reached its highest-ever ranking among the occupations parents wanted their children to pursue.
RUNTEQ begins offering a new Java curriculum to further expand students’ and graduates’ skills
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RUNTEQ has begun offering a new Java curriculum through “RUNTEQ Advance,” a service for current students and graduates. The foundational course is already available, and the advanced curriculum is scheduled for release during April 2026. The company is also working to add Java support to its “Skill Metrix” skills assessment service. Participants in the “Web Development Standard Course,” which is eligible for the Specialized Practical Education and Training Benefit System, can receive benefits of up to 525,600 yen.
“HIBIYA LIVE FESTIVAL 2026” lineup set to liven up Hibiya during Golden Week! The opening act will be the musical “Sister Act”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tokyo Midtown Hibiya will host the urban festival “HIBIYA LIVE FESTIVAL 2026” from April 25 to May 31, 2026. The festival’s “Step Shows” will feature free performances of musicals including “Sister Act” and “Peter Pan,” as well as ballet and opera concerts. Advance reservations and a lottery will be required for some front-stage areas.
Turning hiring, development and retention challenges at mid-sized and small businesses into drivers of growth: “Human Capital Management Study Group,” focused on on-the-ground perspectives, to launch in April 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
船井総研ヒューマンキャピタルコンサルティング will launch the “Human Capital Management Study Group” for mid-sized and small businesses in April 2026. Focused on challenges at the workplace level, it will provide a practical forum for sharing successful approaches to hiring and employee development.
“My First Mell-chan” arrives, with basic play activities perfect for a first caregiving experience
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社パイロットコーポレーション will release “My First Mell-chan,” a new addition to its Mell-chan doll series, on April 18, 2026. “Fashionable Hair Mell-chan” and “Blinking Eyes Nene-chan” will also be refreshed, and a collaboration product with Sanrio characters will be released. Other announced events include expanding the “Mell-chan Friendship Room” at Hotel Green Plaza Karuizawa, holding “Mell-chan Friendship Town” at Karuizawa Toy Kingdom, and setting up “Mell-chan Corners” at all Kids Land US locations.
137 boat racers donate 950,000 yen to “Kodomo Gochimeshi,” a food assistance program for children
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Approximately 950,000 yen was donated by the Japan Motorboat Racing Association and 137 affiliated racers to “Kodomo Gochimeshi,” a food assistance service for children run by NPO法人Kids Future Passport.
Grandberry Park will hold “Hawaiian Days 2026” for 8 days, from April 29 to May 6, 2026. Last year’s event drew a record approximately 590,000 visitors, and this will be its fifth edition. Special stages are planned with prominent artists including KONISHIKI and マイク眞木, along with shows by professional hula dance teams and hula and Tahitian dance performances by a record approximately 120 teams. The event will bring together 8 Hawaiian food trucks and up to 15 merchandise shops, and will offer workshops including ukulele and hula dance experiences. On weekends and holidays, the event will run until 20:00, and a free shuttle bus will also operate.
Factory management system “MENTENA” launches usage-based maintenance (UBM) feature, supporting implementation of operating-time-based preventive maintenance that can be difficult to sustain with paper and Excel
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
八千代ソリューションズ added a usage-based maintenance (UBM) feature to its factory management system “MENTENA” on April 6, 2026. Automated forecasts based on operating data will help improve maintenance efficiency and extend equipment lifespans.
[New feature release] Patented RAG-based AI chatbot “chai+” adds Full Duplex-compatible AI voice bot feature
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
デフィデ株式会社 has added a Full Duplex AI voice bot feature supporting two-way conversations to its patented RAG and AI agent for businesses, “chai+.” The feature was developed to address labor shortages in the call center industry and the growing social issue of customer harassment. The new voice bot delivers a human-like conversational experience and is scheduled to become available in April 2025.