Inspired by the “idol” of a second-grade elementary school student who does not attend school, a talk event with popular illustrator Nukoko will be held in Yamanashi on April 12.
[Bel Amer] 2026 Mother’s Day limited collection unveiled—special sweets to express gratitude with “delicious radiance.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Chocolate specialist Bel Amer has unveiled its limited Mother’s Day collection for 2026. The lineup, available for a limited time, includes “Bouquet Chocolate Shortcake,” designed to look like a bouquet, and “Strawberry Mont Blanc.”
[Wednesday, May 20, 17:00–] What distinguishes people whose jobs are taken by AI from those who thrive? Free webinar unveils a “remote × freelance organization” strategy to revisit in the new fiscal year!
A fresh take on drum-based exercise, “Drumming Exercise,” is coming to 五反田Rocky!
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With the support of social business community “ワクセル,” “Drumming Exercise,” an exercise program using drums that anyone can enjoy, will be held in Gotanda on April 14, 2026.
“One jacket, multiple ways to wear it.” 686’s unique “SMARTY 3-IN-1 SYSTEM” transforms the boundary between the snowy mountains and the city.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Snowwear brand 686 presents apparel featuring the “SMARTY 3-IN-1 SYSTEM,” which combines a shell and an inner layer. One garment serves 3 purposes while reducing environmental impact.
【A monthly wine subscription to look forward to】Offered by a specialty shop for over 25 years! A monthly delivery of varied wines carefully selected by the owner. GRANDCHEF opens on subsc, an e-commerce mall specializing in subscriptions
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GRANDCHEF (Yasudaya), a Western cuisine restaurant, has opened on subsc, a subscription-focused e-commerce mall operated by 株式会社現代経営技術研究所, and begun offering a regular wine delivery service for a fixed fee.
【Free assessment】Have your tools moved into the Reiwa era while your rules remain in the Showa era? New “invisible losses” diagnostic tool calculates your company’s annual losses on the spot
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Aesta has released a diagnostic tool for “invisible losses” caused by “superficial efficiency improvements,” as the 2nd installment in the social implementation of its next-generation management system for the AI era, “Time Psychology Management™.” Targeting executives and business leaders at medium-sized and larger companies, the tool calculates an “estimated annual loss” and the company’s current position on a management diagnostic matrix based on answers to 7 questions. Many companies are incurring “invisible losses” worth several million to hundreds of millions of yen each month because of the contradiction that “the tools are from the Reiwa era, but the rules are from the Showa era.” The tool makes this problem visible through data. After the assessment, a free detailed report explaining the calculation logic is provided.
Is cryptocurrency shady? 1,486 people share their candid views and the barrier of “lack of understanding”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Clabo conducted a survey of 1,486 people about their views on crypto assets. The findings show that a lack of understanding fuels the perception that they are “shady” and is the biggest barrier to investment.
The era is shifting from DX to AX. Monthly AI implementation support service “AX Common®” launches April 3, 2026
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クロスエモーション合同会社 is launching AX Common, a monthly support service to help companies put AI into practical use, on April 3, 2026. The service offers 3 plans tailored to companies’ stages of AI adoption.
“Adorn with fragrance.” Interior fragrance brand ART & FRAGRANCE, where sight and scent come together, debuts on Wednesday, April 15, 2026
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株式会社MOGU will launch ART & FRAGRANCE, a new interior fragrance brand that blends art and scent, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The brand focuses not only on fragrance’s functional qualities but also on its appeal to the senses, with abstract art featured on the labels. The lineup includes 5 reed diffusers, priced at 5,500 yen (before tax) for 250 ml. They will be sold on Amazon and the company’s own e-commerce site.
Bicycle coverage spotlights the introduction of “blue tickets.” The April issue of Transport and Economy, a specialist journal on transportation research, goes on sale Thursday, April 9, 2026
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The April issue of Transport and Economy, published by the Institute of Transportation Economics, focuses on bicycles. It provides a multifaceted analysis of turning points in bicycle policy, including the introduction of blue tickets.
【Ryukyu Glass: Works by Eikichi Matsuda】—Happiness comes from beyond the sea—
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Happiness Comes from Beyond the Sea,” an exhibition of works by Eikichi Matsuda, a Ryukyu glass artist and a Contemporary Master Craftsman, will be held at Benitsubaki Soleil in Kyoto from May 1 to 17, 2026. The exhibition will mainly feature the “Onna Blue” series, inspired by the sea off Onna Village, Okinawa. The series won the top prize at the Okinawa Prefecture Specialty Products Contest in 2023, and a portion of sales will be donated to Onna Village’s coral fund. Matsuda has spent 45 years honing his Ryukyu glassmaking skills, and the exhibition marks his debut solo exhibition as a master craftsman.
Best Amenity Co., Ltd. takes over the business of Hanano Tsuyu, a historic sake brewery in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture
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Best Amenity Co., Ltd. has taken over the facilities, real estate and sake-brewing business of Hanano Tsuyu, a historic brewery in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture. The brewery had been cherished since the Edo period but ceased operations in December 2024. Best Amenity’s representative, Mr. Uchida, purchased the brewery in December 2025 and decided to preserve and develop its traditions. A ceremony to grant a liquor manufacturing license and a press conference were held on April 1, led by the head of the Kurume Tax Office.
Launching a demonstration of early childhood education using generative AI × fashion STEAM|Aura株式会社 opens the Aura Creative Education Research Institute in partnership with みらい幼稚舎
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Aura株式会社 has partnered with みらい幼稚舎 to open the Aura Creative Education Research Institute. In April 2026, it will begin a demonstration of “digital-analog education” for young children using generative AI and fashion STEAM.
For those who dislike sleeping bags: a “sleeping bag that doesn’t feel constricting.” New colors arrive for Bears Rock’s envelope-style sleeping bags
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Bears Rock has released new colors for its envelope-style sleeping bags, designed to reduce the feeling of confinement. The company optimized not only the roominess but also the resilience and recovery of the filling, balancing a close fit with room to move.
With or without an OS? A new way to choose an electronic whiteboard has arrived.
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ANSHI JAPAN株式会社 will launch the next-generation ANSHI Touch AURA electronic whiteboard, which has no built-in OS for enhanced security, on April 1, 2026. The OS-free and Windows versions will be offered in the same chassis, addressing security and ease-of-use concerns that have been barriers to adoption for companies.
【Event report】A hands-on business-matching event connecting top producers in Higashi-Mikawa with chefs, buyers and others from across Japan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
サーラ不動産 held the hands-on “Premium Matching Event” on March 16 and 17, 2026, connecting producers in Higashi-Mikawa with chefs and buyers from across Japan. Higashi-Mikawa is one of Japan’s leading agricultural regions, with agricultural output of about 150 billion yen. The event brought together 17 producer groups and 24 participants from 15 businesses, who deepened their connections through pitches, one-on-one discussions, a networking session and farm visits. Participants praised the event for letting them “hear directly from producers about their experiences and aspirations,” while producers said they “saw potential for new sales channels and collaborations.” Higashi-Mikawa Food Valley will continue working to promote the value of local food and create new business opportunities.
bitFlyer ranks No. 1 in domestic Bitcoin trading volume for 10 consecutive years; “Spring Bitcoin Festival” also announced
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
bitFlyer ranked No. 1 in annual domestic Bitcoin trading volume for 10 consecutive years, from 2016 through 2025. To mark the achievement, it will hold the “Spring Bitcoin Festival” campaign starting April 3, 2026.
bitFlyer Holdings establishes AI Strategy Office, aiming to build financial infrastructure for the AI agent era through AI × blockchain
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
bitFlyer Holdings will establish an AI Strategy Office in April 2026. It aims to build next-generation financial infrastructure combining AI and blockchain to support autonomous economic activity in the AI agent era.
【TAC TOEIC® L&R TEST preparation courses】750-point course opens at Yaesu School on Saturday, April 11; 650-point course opens at Shinjuku School on Sunday, April 12! Free trial classes available at both schools
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TAC株式会社 will launch TOEIC® L&R TEST preparation courses at Yaesu School on Saturday, April 11, 2026, for a score of 750, and at Shinjuku School on Sunday, April 12, for a score of 650. Both schools will also offer free trial classes, and participants will receive a bonus textbook. The article also provides tuition fees and other details for each course, along with an overview of TAC株式会社.
Construction begins on multi-tenant logistics facility “DPL Shizuoka Fukuroi”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Daiwa House Industry began construction on March 23, 2026, of “DPL Shizuoka Fukuroi,” a multi-tenant logistics facility in Fukuroi, Shizuoka Prefecture. The site covers 7,801.20㎡, with a total floor area of 8,002.15㎡. Completion is scheduled for January 31, 2027, with occupancy beginning on February 1. The facility is located roughly midway between central Tokyo and central Osaka, with easy access to the Tomei and Shin-Tomei Expressways. Solar power generation systems will be installed, and the facility aims to meet BELS 5-star and Nearly ZEB or higher standards.
A regional trading company supports student housing! 富士商株式会社’s real estate business builds 3 new apartment buildings for students in Yamaguchi City
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富士商株式会社 is building 3 new apartment buildings for students in Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and promoting better student housing through its real estate business.
PARCELLE JEWELRY Yokohama store (Yokohama Takashimaya) announces April releases and events
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The PARCELLE JEWELRY Yokohama store (Yokohama Takashimaya) announced the release of April items, including “Luce,” and a store event showcasing a variety of gemstones.
Pilates Mirror opens in Shakujiicho, Nerima Ward, on May 30!
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Konami Sports Co., Ltd. will open “Pilates Mirror Shakujii-koen” in Shakujiicho, Nerima Ward, Tokyo, on May 30, 2026. The studio offers 30-minute lessons that let participants check their movements in a mirror and achieve a sense of accomplishment and effective results in a short time. No shoes or change of clothes are needed. A pre-opening campaign will run from April 3 to May 29, 2026, and free trial sessions will be held from May 12 to May 29. Monthly membership starts at ¥11,000 (tax included) for 6 sessions, with a separate joining fee of ¥11,000 (tax included).
[A 3-title achievement] 夢みるアドレセンス’s Konoha Sakuraba wins the grand prize at Bishōjo Kōshien Vol.29, triumphing after 8 days of fierce competition
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At “Bishōjo Kōshien Vol.29,” organized by ファンテック株式会社, Konoha Sakuraba of 夢みるアドレセンス won the grand prize. She claimed 3 titles, including a role as a Shinjuku Station advertising model and the rights to have an original song produced, establishing herself as a rising beauty.
Unknown Worlds announces a free-play weekend and limited-time 75% sale for its underwater adventure game “Subnautica” series!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KRAFTON JAPAN announced a free-play weekend and a sale of up to 75% off for Unknown Worlds’ “Subnautica” series. The move aims to expand the fan base ahead of the early access release of the new game “Subnautica 2.”
[Soramichi System: Free online seminars] To be held on April 22, 24, 28 and 30! “Developing pharmacists who are true primary care providers!! An overview of Soramichi’s AI scoring function, connecting assessment to development”
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Soramichi System Co., Ltd. will hold free online seminars from April 22 to 30 on its “AI scoring function,” aimed at strengthening pharmacists’ patient-facing services.
Art-like floral gifts: Flower shop “karendo” and “Kayo Horaguchi” launch a Mother’s Day limited-edition collection
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Flower shop “karendo” collaborated with graphic artist Kayo Horaguchi to release a Mother’s Day limited-edition collection on April 3, 2026. The gifts combine art and flowers.
Kirifuda Co., Ltd. has dispatched a specialist to the newly established “CAIO adviser” post in 福岡県田川市. The initiative aims to advance administrative digital transformation and address local issues using AI and blockchain technology.
In corporate crisis management, the experience of “senior employees” can determine a company’s fate. Infocom publishes a special interview with crisis management experts on “organizational resilience in emergencies”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Infocom Co., Ltd. has published a special article on the economic news platform NewsPicks, highlighting “senior employees” as key to maximizing companies’ crisis management capabilities. The article argues that the “judgment” and “tacit knowledge from the field” of senior employees are crucial to strengthening organizational crisis management in response to increasingly complex risks. Infocom also provides IT solutions that support crisis management, including the Emergency Call system for emergency communications and safety confirmations, BCP consulting, and BCPortal, a business continuity management portal. The company was established on February 12, 1983, and its president and representative director is Jun Kuroda.
To mark the 85th anniversary of “Curious George,” a Curious George Kitchen merchandise shop will make its first limited-time appearance at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse from Friday, April 10, 2026!
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The “Curious George Kitchen ~85th Anniversary Shop~ in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse,” a merchandise shop celebrating the 85th anniversary of “Curious George,” will open for a limited time at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse from April 10 to May 17, 2026. Operated by Benelic, the shop will offer 4 advance-sale items, including T-shirts featuring popular café items such as burgers, cream soda and waffles (¥4,620 each), and a mini waffle tote bag (¥4,400). Customers who spend ¥4,400 (tax included) or more will receive an eco-bag, and visitors will be given a flyer with a coupon for a free drink at Curious George Kitchen in Tokyo Solamachi.
For renovation demolition, tree felling and bamboo cutting sites: 4 new blades added to the wood and bamboo reciprocating saw blade series
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Vessel Co., Ltd. will add 4 new products to its reciprocating saw blade series for wood and bamboo, and begin shipping them on April 2, 2026. The expanded lineup will comprise 6 types to meet a range of cutting needs, including wood, green wood, branches and trunks, and thick bamboo. The new products offer improved durability and ease of use, thanks to blade designs tailored to different applications and shared technologies such as impact hardening and electroless nickel plating.
Limited quantities of poster MoviTicke tickets for the film “Michael” to be sold in 3 designs: international, teaser and North American!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A3-size poster MoviTicke tickets for the film “Michael” will go on sale in limited quantities from 10 a.m. on April 3, 2026. They are priced at ¥2,980 (tax included; shipping not included). The 1st sales period runs from April 3 to April 23, 2026, and the 2nd sales period from April 24 to May 14. The tickets come in 3 visual designs: international, teaser and North American. The lead role is played by Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, and the film is directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Paris-lauded chef Kazuma Chikuda publishes his first recipe book: a volume that gives everyday vegetables a taste of Paris.
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KADOKAWA will release Kazuma Chikuda’s first recipe book, “How the French Like to Eat Vegetables: Recipes from a Popular Paris Bistro Chef,” on April 3, 2026. Chikuda, chef at the Paris bistros “narro” and “Calice,” shares French recipes that make the most of seasonal vegetables. The list price is ¥1,870 (¥1,700 before tax), and the ISBN is 978-4-04-607770-7.
TV anime “Cardfight!! Vanguard Divinez: Genshin Seisen Arc” Episode 11 airs Saturday, April 4! Preview stills also released!
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Episode 11 of the TV anime “Cardfight!! Vanguard Divinez: Genshin Seihen Arc” will air on Saturday, April 4. In this episode, Akina and Hikari face off against Gabwelius, as a battle to decide between illusion and truth begins. In addition to the main broadcast, the series airs on the TV Aichi and TV Tokyo network of 6 stations at 8 a.m. every Saturday and on BS Nippon TV at 23:30 every Saturday. It is also available on numerous streaming platforms.
VR animation “If I Could See Cats,” nominated for the Venice International Film Festival, launches worldwide on Steam and Meta Store on April 3!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The VR animation “If I Could See Cats,” produced by Kodansha Ltd. and Kodansha VR Lab, will launch worldwide on Steam and Meta Store on April 3, 2026. The work was nominated last year in the “Venice Immersive” section of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival and drew attention as an ambitious work addressing challenges in Japanese mental health care. It is directed by Jun Wada, produced by Kenji Ishimaru, and features Tatsuya Wakaba and Ryoko Yui in the Japanese-language cast. Steam will offer a 20% launch discount from April 3 to April 17.
All episodes of the TV anime BECK to be released free on YouTube at once, streaming begins today [Celebrating the release of the latest work by the author, THE BAND Vol. 4!]
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To celebrate the release of THE BAND Vol. 4, the latest work by Harold Sakuishi, Kodansha will make all 26 episodes of the TV anime BECK available for free for a limited time on its YouTube channel フル☆アニメTV from April 3 to May 31, 2026. The campaign depicts the growth of protagonist Koyuki, who is drawn into the world of music through BECK, a story about a rock band. A new edition of the BECK manga is also on sale.
A book that makes learning about Western paintings fun through illustrations and manga featuring “monsters”: Kaibutsu Museum: An Introduction to Western Painting Through Illustrations and Manga, on sale April 1!
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Miho Sugimata’s Kaibutsu Museum: An Introduction to Western Painting Through Illustrations and Manga goes on sale April 1, 2026. This introductory book offers a fun way to learn about Western paintings through manga and illustrations.
Jacket art unveiled for the original soundtrack CD for AGITO: The Superpower War, a film marking the 55th anniversary of Kamen Rider’s birth, on sale April 29!!
【LILY BROWN Lingerie】Skeleton-type T-shirts with built-in cups are here, supervised by skeletal diagnosis specialist Megumi Mafune!
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LILY BROWN Lingerie will release its “skeleton-type cup-in T-shirts,” supervised by skeletal diagnosis specialist Megumi Mafune, on April 8, 2026. The shirts are made with the long-lasting cooling fabric Evercool and feature designs tailored to each skeleton type. To mark the launch, Mafune will also hold a personal styling event at the Shibuya PARCO store on April 11.
To celebrate the release of her latest song “Error Song,” KAF to appear live at a listening party on AWA Lounge
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A listening party featuring virtual singer KAF live will be held on the music streaming service operated by AWA to celebrate the release of her latest song, “Error Song.”
Messenger Kuroda, Toru Hashimoto and Naja Grandeva take a stroll around Osaka Bay’s Nanko area! Naja’s shocking confession: “I haven’t had a partner in 52 years”
About 62% say that living or studying abroad “is a plus in Japanese society.” What skills are valued beyond language ability?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey of 500 people conducted by NEXER Co., Ltd. and Mainichi Education Co., Ltd., about 62% said that living or studying abroad is a plus in Japanese society. In addition to language ability, respondents highly value intercultural understanding and mental resilience, and view study abroad as an opportunity for personal growth. Meanwhile, about 40% said they wanted to update themselves, pointing to the need to adapt to change and acquire skills.
Two-base living: The No. 1 reason people became interested was “wanting to recharge in nature.” What do people look for in a second home, and which areas are ideal?
Kon-chan Momota of Momoiro Clover Z shares her thoughts in her first collection of conversations, Kono Michi wo Yukeba, set for release on May 18 (Monday)! Talk events will also be held in Tokyo, Hokkaido and Osaka!
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Kono Michi wo Yukeba, the first collection of conversations by Momoiro Clover Z leader Kanako Momota, will be released on May 18, 2026. The book features conversations with 15 prominent figures from various fields, as well as newly taken photographs. Talk events will also be held to mark its release.
The May 2026 issue of monthly magazine MOE went on sale April 3. Its cover feature, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar: 50th Anniversary of the Japanese Edition,” explores the world of the bestselling picture book, which has sold more than 60 million copies, and its author, Eric Carle. The Eric Carle exhibition is being held, starting at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Japanese edition. The issue also includes The Very Hungry Caterpillar message stickers. Other features include tupera tupera, Satoshi Kako, Hiroshi Abe, Yumi Uchida, Josef Lada, Ito Ogawa and Yuko Higuchi.
Hakusensha released the May 2026 issue of the girls’ manga magazine LaLaDX on April 3. Bunme-san’s Lodger is featured on the cover, and a clear file giveaway for all applicants is also being held.
Hakusensha released issue 9 of the girls’ manga magazine Hana to Yume on April 3, 2026. Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? is featured on the cover, and the issue comes with a clear plastic sheet featuring Spring Storm and Monster.
Enjoy stylish spring outings with Animal Crossing at FamilyMart! The campaign is underway! Starting Tuesday, April 7, you’ll have a chance to get an original tote bag! Ichiban Kuji also makes its debut
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FamilyMart is running a nationwide campaign for Nintendo’s Animal Crossing at about 16,400 stores. Starting April 7, customers who buy 2 eligible products can receive an original tote bag.
Starts Saturday, April 4, at 10 a.m. 【Mosa Saturday】A look at the program, plus recent photos of announcer Katafuchi!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TV Tokyo will launch a new economic news program, Mosa Saturday, on April 4. In partnership with the New York Stock Exchange, it will explain global news from the weekend.
【Nitori’s apparel brand N+】Linen-look semi-wide pants with a choice of length, on sale for 2,990 yen
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
N+, the apparel brand of the Nitori Group, began selling its linen-look semi-wide pants series nationwide at N+ stores and on Nitori Net in late March for 2,990 yen. The pants have a natural, linen-like texture and come in 2 lengths, short and regular, and sizes S–LL. There are 6 options in total: 4 solid colors and 2 geometric patterns. The N+ new product exhibition was held on February 17 and 18, 2026.
【Ginza Cozy Corner】Cakes featuring Pokémon designs and baked-goods gifts with fun gimmicks now on sale. Head off on a tasty little adventure this Children’s Day and Golden Week!
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Ginza Cozy Corner will release Pokémon-themed petit cake assortments and baked-goods gifts nationwide starting April 10, 2026. The limited-time products are aimed at demand for Children’s Day and Golden Week.
Official sheet music for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition’s required songs goes on sale April 3, including “Dokkin Semisan,” whose production involved popular E-Tele character Wanwan, and the AI-created “Mada Tabi no Tochu.”
【Can You Really Lose Weight While Eating Well!?】The long-awaited 3rd installment in registered dietitian Eda Jun’s “Protein-Packed Weight-Loss” series, the ultimate ally for a high-protein diet, goes on sale on 5/1!!
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The 3rd installment in registered dietitian Eda Jun’s “Protein-Packed Weight-Loss” series, “100 Protein-Packed, Weight-Loss Snacks,” will be released by Shufu to Seikatsusha on May 1.
Reduction by electrons generated by light, or hot spots? — Uncovering the mechanism behind world-leading CO2 photofuel production activity —
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A research group including Chiba University has clarified the roles of electrons generated by light and hot spots in the photocatalytic reaction that converts CO2 into methane. The group developed a Ni–Ru–ZrO2 catalyst and achieved a world-leading rate of CO2 photomethanation (10 millimoles per hour per 1 g of catalyst). The findings are expected to contribute to improving the efficiency of photocatalysts for CO2 reduction. The study was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
According to a survey by Mandom Co., Ltd., rising temperatures in early spring are prompting people to become aware of sweat earlier, with about 1 in 4 people starting to notice sweat in April. More than 80% say sweat reduces their performance, with the greatest reported impact on work and efficiency.
Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, marking its 80th anniversary, to livestream concerts for free on Niconico; 2026/27 season streaming lineup announced
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Dwango Co., Ltd. and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra Foundation announced that they will livestream 8 Tokyo Symphony Orchestra concerts scheduled from April 2026 to March 2027 for free on “Niconico Tokyo Symphony Orchestra (Niko-Kyo),” the classical music channel on the “Niconico Live” streaming service. The Tokyo Symphony Orchestra will mark its 80th anniversary in April, and Lorenzo Viotti will become its 4th music director. This will be the 7th year of the orchestra’s partnership with Niconico, which is drawing attention as a new way to experience orchestral music. The streaming lineup includes Lorenzo Viotti’s inaugural concert and an 80th anniversary concert.
Bandai will release the “thermo mug Lantern Bottle” featuring a Haro design at its Gundam apparel shop “STRICT-G” starting April 11, 2026. Preorders open on Premium Bandai on April 3.
“Kanana Luminia” debuts, a line of elegant, lightweight bags that add a touch of glamour to your look from behind
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Ace Co., Ltd. has launched “Kanana Luminia,” a new series from “Kanana Project,” a brand co-developed with travel expert Kanae Takeuchi. The series carries forward the original Kanana backpack’s concept of “looking beautiful from behind,” evolving it into a more stylish square silhouette. It is made with environmentally friendly 100% recycled nylon “Mipan regen®” and recycled polyester, and offers a range of features, including divided pockets, a safety lock, quick-drying fabric, and antiviral and antibacterial treated fabric. Its lightweight design makes it suitable for everything from everyday use to short trips.
VAZ × Twin Planet’s 11-member idol group α+ releases “Kyun de LOVE suru Oenka,” the finale of its “new song every 3 consecutive weeks” series, on Friday, April 3! New cheer-inspired outfits also unveiled!
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The 11-member idol group α+, co-produced by VAZ and Twin Planet, will release its 4th single, “Kyun de LOVE suru Oenka,” on April 3. The group also unveiled new cheer-inspired outfits and plans to hold its first fan meeting in June.
Music and food session “Wonder Lounge” to be held at 2 venues in April 2026
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Wondertable Co., Ltd. will hold “Wonder Lounge,” a lounge event featuring music and food, at 2 venues, including Roppongi Hills, in April 2026. Produced by DJ TARO, the event offers a musical experience that complements the space.
The limited-time “Cherry Salmon Fair,” featuring cherry salmon from Hokkaido, will be held at Shin Nihonkai Ferry’s onboard restaurants from April 6 to May 31, 2026. The fair offers a special taste of spring to enjoy during a sea voyage.
Sumikko characters appear as ninjas! The new Sumikko Gurashi theme is “Ninja”!! Products to go on sale sequentially from late April
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San-X will begin selling products based on the new “Ninja” theme for “Sumikko Gurashi” in late April. The products are also expected to appeal to inbound visitors and as Japanese souvenirs.
The 6th installment of the hugely popular BASIC RILAKKUMA series! Monochrome designs join the lineup. Introducing the “BASIC RILAKKUMA MONOCHROME” theme!
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San-X Co., Ltd. will launch “BASIC RILAKKUMA MONOCHROME,” the 6th theme in its “BASIC RILAKKUMA” series of classic designs featuring the popular character Rilakkuma, around late April 2026. The new theme features monochrome designs, with stationery, daily-use items, plush toys, and more. The character Chairoikoguma will also mark its 10th anniversary in 2026, and a special website is now live.
New products featuring the latest character, まいにちはむちま, go on sale from late April!
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San-X will release new products featuring its new character まいにちはむちま, which debuted in November 2025, at retailers and online shops nationwide from late April 2026. The lineup includes a 4-panel everyday-life sticker set (275 yen), a patch keychain (1,650 yen), a plush photo keychain (1,980 yen) and a mini tote bag (2,200 yen). A wide range of plush products will also be available, including a palm-sized plush (1,320 yen), a hanging plush (1,650 yen), a plush badge (1,045 yen) and a plush toy (1,980 yen).
Mitsubishi Estate × 01Booster opens applications for business plan contest 01Start, 9th term!
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Zero One Booster and Mitsubishi Estate have opened applications for the 9th term of the business plan contest 01Start, held at SAAI, a community they operate together. The contest supports a diverse range of challengers, including entrepreneurs and corporate entrepreneurs, and accelerates business creation.
Leopalace21 certified as a “Benefits Promotion Corporation” for 4 consecutive years at Hataraku Yell 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Leopalace21 Corporation has been certified as a “Benefits Promotion Corporation” for 4 consecutive years at Hataraku Yell 2026 and, for the first time, received the “Excellent Benefits Corporation (Overall)” award, given to 12 of the 323 organizations. In fiscal 2025, the company introduced a benefits points program to meet employees’ diverse needs, earning high usage rates and positive evaluations. It also reflects employee feedback in designing its programs through “town hall meetings” and “workshops” led by executives, fostering a workplace with a high degree of psychological safety. In addition, it continues to work to improve the well-being of employees and their families through health seminars led by outside instructors and the introduction of a health promotion app.
The REDA Rickenbacker Jacket, combining premium coolness with sustainability, launches April 4 (Sat.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Haruyama Trading will launch the environmentally conscious REDA Rickenbacker Jacket, made with fabric from REDA社, on April 4, 2026. The jacket combines a luxurious look with a cool feel.
ASUENE CAREER, ASUENE’s career platform, ranks No.1 for job listings in the GX, ESG and sustainability fields
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ASUENE CAREER, a career platform specializing in GX and ESG talent offered by ASUENE, ranked No.1 for job listings in the GX, ESG and sustainability fields in a Tokyo Shoko Research survey. The survey compared more than 2,000 services, and ASUENE CAREER had the most publicly listed and private job openings. The company will also run a referral campaign from April 3 to June 5, 2026, offering a 5,000-yen Amazon gift card. ASUENE CAREER is operated by a company ranked No.1 for its track record in the decarbonization business and boasts one of the largest job listings in Japan.
Art Nature’s ready-made wig shop Julia Ogee Nagoya Unimall store to relocate and reopen April 3 (Fri.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Art Nature Corporation relocated and reopened its Julia Ogee Nagoya Unimall store on April 3, 2026 (Fri.). The store offers a variety of products, including the partial wig Refia Grace and the medical wig ANCS (Ancs). To mark the reopening, a campaign will run from April 3, 2026 (Fri.), to May 6 (Wed.). Visitors will receive an “Otezukuri Monaka” sweet, while customers who purchase a wig for 110,000 yen or more (tax included) will receive a Laips Head Head Pack. The store also provides after-sales care, including style adjustments after purchase.
Art Nature’s ready-made wig shop Julia Ogee provides wigs for the film お終活3 幸春! 人生メモリーズ
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Art Nature Corporation, which provides comprehensive hair-related services, supplied wigs for the film お終活3 幸春! 人生メモリーズ, set for release on May 29, 2026. Wigs from Art Nature’s ready-made wig shop Julia Ogee are worn throughout the film. Julia Ogee offers high-quality wigs that draw on its custom-wig expertise and are easy to enjoy, with a wide selection that includes the popular Refia Grace.
Learn English even if you struggle with it! A former prime ministerial interpreter turned international business consultant teaches the “shortest” way to master English!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Koichi Nakagawa, a former diplomat who also served as an interpreter for the prime minister, has published a guide to English learning. It presents a way to learn English quickly by using the “Japanese brain” rather than the “English brain.”
Learn Excel and spreadsheets side by side in 1 book. Master the basics, functions, charts, data analysis and AI features to become someone who gets things done!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new guide to learning both Excel and Google Sheets in 1 book is now on sale. It covers everything from basic operations to using the latest AI features, including Copilot and Gemini.
“Care Burden Navigator” launches a “Personal Cost Cap Checker” for care expenses—enter an income category and care level to have AI instantly calculate the monthly out-of-pocket limit and the refund for high-cost care services
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Mycat Corporation has launched the “Personal Cost Cap Checker” on Care Burden Navigator, which uses AI to instantly calculate out-of-pocket limits for care expenses and estimated refunds.
Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Yamanoha creates spaces filled with seasonal scents using a fragrance made with shiso grown in Toyama Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Yamanoha has partnered with HERBAL8 to begin creating scented spaces and selling products with Happy Walker, a special fragrance made with shiso grown in Toyama Prefecture.
For everyone struggling to cope: TRE・震えて癒す0(ゼロ)レッスン, a self-guided trauma-release exercise practiced by more than 5 million people in 70 countries, goes on sale April 3
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The book TRE・震えて癒す0(ゼロ)レッスン, adapted from David Berceli’s Trauma Releasing Exercises, first published in 2005, will be released by Nitto Shoin Honsha on April 3, 2026. It introduces TRE, a trauma-release exercise practiced by more than 5 million people in 70 countries. The book aims to help readers understand trauma, PTS and PTSD and promote mental and physical recovery through 7 simple exercises. The list price is 1,760 yen (1,600 yen before tax, plus tax).
Novasell to hold in-person seminar: “Change Your Work Starting Tomorrow! A Practical AI Seminar for Marketers”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Novasell Inc. will hold “Change Your Work Starting Tomorrow! A Practical AI Seminar for Marketers” on April 17, 2026, at Mori JP Tower in Azabudai Hills, Minato Ward, Tokyo. The seminar will demonstrate practical ways to design marketing strategies using generative AI, including methods to cut tasks that take several days down to 10 minutes. Participation is free.
“Compatibility with the counselor” is the top deciding factor for choosing a study abroad agency, cited by about 50%! Mitsukaru Eikaiwa conducts survey
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Iid Inc. surveyed 138 users of study abroad agencies through Mitsukaru Eikaiwa. About half said that “compatibility with the counselor” was the most important factor in choosing an agency.
More than 90% of applications for infant and toddler health checkups in Tamano, Okayama Prefecture, are submitted through the Tamano Child-Rearing App (Boshimo)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MAMAMO Co., Ltd. provided childcare DX services to Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture, and digitized applications for infant health checkups through an app. As a result, application rates reached 94.1% for the infant health checkup on April 4, 2025, and 93.3% for the 3-year-old health checkup on April 10, 2025. This enabled parents to complete procedures regardless of their location or the time, while municipal staff could review medical questionnaires and enter data into the system without waiting for paper charts to be circulated. The digitization has helped improve the quality of health checkups, streamline information sharing, and enhance the security of personal information management. MAMAMO aims to further improve convenience for families with children in Tamano City and help build a community where it is easier to have and raise children.
A long-awaited body wash has arrived from athletia<アスレティア>. Step into the realm of an aroma spa.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Athletia will launch its new “Treatment Body Wash,” offering an aroma spa experience, on April 3, 2026. It will cost ¥4,400 including tax for the full-size bottle and ¥3,190 including tax for the refill. Formulated with more than 90% natural plant essential oils, it uses proprietary micellar technology to cleanse thoroughly while retaining moisture. It has a natural origin index of 86% (including water) and comes in an environmentally considerate recycled plastic bottle.
【うめきた温泉 蓮 Wellbeing Park】New lesson program “Suwa-Robi Supported by Nissui” to launch 4/3
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new health lesson, “Suwa-Robi Supported by Nissui,” sponsored by Nissui, will be held for a limited time at うめきた温泉 蓮 Wellbeing Park in Osaka starting April 3, 2026. The program supports health through both exercise and nutrition.
Companies mentioned:株式会社ニッスイ、うめきた温泉 蓮 Wellbeing Park
CHARGESPOT installation completed at 38 Lawson United Cinemas theaters
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社INFORICH has completed installation of its CHARGESPOT mobile battery-sharing service at 38 Lawson United Cinemas theaters nationwide, providing charging facilities for moviegoers.
A sweet love story between a count’s daughter and a scheming knight begins! Volume 1 of “The Overprotective, Cunning Guard Knight Wants to Tease the Purebred Lady” goes on sale Friday, April 3!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Takeshobo will release Volume 1 of the isekai romantic comedy manga “The Overprotective, Cunning Guard Knight Wants to Tease the Purebred Lady” on April 3, 2026.
Clear the scoundrel prince’s bad reputation! Seize a true happy ending!!!!!! Volume 1 of “The Scumbag Prince Starts Over! ~I Was Executed After Getting What I Deserved, but This Time I’ll Smash the Script and Survive~” goes on sale Friday, April 3!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Takeshobo will release Volume 1 of the isekai fantasy manga “The Scumbag Prince Starts Over!” on April 3, 2026. A prince who is the villain in an otome game struggles to avert a bad ending and save the world.
【’47 (Forty-Seven)】A Winnie the Pooh cap, arriving in April from the Disney Design Collection
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Casual lifestyle brand ’47 will release new caps featuring Winnie the Pooh from its Disney Design Collection in April 2026. The 2 designs are inspired by Pooh and honey, and will be available in adult and kids’ sizes. Prices are ¥4,620 for adults and ¥4,180 for kids, both including tax.
【High-end robot vacuum rankings】Leave all your floor cleaning to a robot! Our top pick for maximum time efficiency revealed!! (Kaden Hihyo, May 2026 issue)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The May 2026 issue of Kaden Hihyo conducted an in-depth comparison of 6 high-end robot vacuums and announced its rankings. The 8 evaluation categories, scored out of 100 points, were suction performance, mopping performance, navigation, noise, app performance, maintenance, ease of installation, and user experience. Dreame’s “Aqua10 Ultra Roller” and DJI’s “ROMO P” tied for 1st place. Dreame scored 83.8 points and DJI scored 83.7. Shinyusha awards a “certified” mark to products approved by its editorial team.