789 received, 789 listed, 2 sources ・ Page 6 of 8
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 716 items from 1 source; Taiwan, 73 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
Daiso Industries conducted its overseas work experience program “DAISO Global Challenge Spring 2026” at a large logistics facility in Malaysia. It also launched a dedicated website for web-based internships to strengthen its recruitment of global talent.
Companies mentioned：関西外国語大学、立命館アジア太平洋大学（APU）、神田外語大学、山口大学
Monster Energy Japan will run a campaign on X (formerly Twitter) from April 13 to April 17, 2026, offering a pair of tickets to the “KOBE MELLOW CRUISE 2026” music festival. The festival will be held on May 5 and May 6, 2026, at GLION ARENA KOBE / TOTTEI PARK in Kobe, featuring hip-hop and R&B artists. Monster Energy will serve as the drink partner for the 5th consecutive year.
Summary not yet available
Relaxation goods company MyComfort and fragrance brand Danlow have collaborated. Starting April 13, they will launch a campaign to give away a set featuring a “Neck Relaxation Pillow” and incense to 50 winners, to help ease the stress of starting a new chapter.
Companies mentioned：株式会社EICRIT、株式会社SHICA
Originalホテルパールシティ神戸は、2026年5月2日から4日までのゴールデンウィーク期間中、3日間限定で「ハーフバイキング付ゴールデンウィークスタッフセレクトディナー」を開催します。メイン料理は国産牛ロースのミラノ風カツレツまたは魚介のアクアパッツァから選択可能で、20品目のサラダバーを含むハーフバイキングも提供されます。大人料金は5,500円（税込）です。
Hitachi Solutions will add a feature to its cloud service “BSSsymphony” for subscription businesses starting April 13, enabling AI to detect early signs of KPI changes. Using Tableau, the feature visualizes and analyzes factors behind fluctuations in churn rates, LTV and other metrics.
OriginalVisaとみずほ銀行は、キャッシュレス社会の実現に向けた包括的パートナーシップ契約を締結しました。この提携により、みずほグループ全体でクレジットカード決済の拡大を目指します。両社は、日本国内でのクレジットカード決済連携強化、事業者間（BtoB）キャッシュレス決済市場のキャッシュレス化促進、およびユーザーの利便性を追求したキャッシュレス体験の検討という3つの主要な取り組みを実施します。経済産業省の目標では、2030年までにキャッシュレス決済比率65%、将来的には80%を目指しており、このパートナーシップは市場拡大に貢献すると期待されます。
Gong cha Japan Co., Ltd. will open the “Gong cha Lumine Shinjuku store” on Monday, April 20, 2026. The tea stand will be located on B2 of Lumine Shinjuku Lumine 1, directly connected to JR Shinjuku Station. Gong cha is a global tea café chain with more than 2,000 stores in about 30 countries worldwide and about 200 locations in Japan. It is known for its carefully selected premium teas and customizable drink menu.
A new “Favorites” feature has launched on the “SmartHR Plus” app store operated by 株式会社SmartHR, allowing users to save apps they are interested in.
Companies mentioned：株式会社SmartHR
Beisia Co., Ltd. signed an “Agreement on Cooperation in Providing Daily Necessities and Other Supplies During Disasters” with Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, on April 1, 2026. Under the agreement, Beisia will provide essential supplies such as food, drinking water and daily necessities at the city’s request in the event of a major disaster. Beisia opened a store in Nagakute City last year, and the agreement was reached as part of its community-based activities. This brings the number of disaster-related agreements Beisia has signed with local governments and other entities nationwide to 52.
SBI FX Trade will hold “Sakura Blooms! Money Lounge,” a free YouTube live-streaming event about money and investing for new employees, on April 19, 2026. A freelance announcer and a stock trader will explain the basics of asset management.
Companies mentioned：SBIホールディングス株式会社
LINE Digital Frontier has launched an integration between “LINE Manga” and the points-earning app “LINE WALK.” A new feature lets users earn “LINE WALK” coins simply by reading manga.
Companies mentioned：LINE Digital Frontier株式会社、LINEヤフー株式会社
Rainy Blue Co., Ltd. will release “Piyorin Popcorn (Caramel & Custard),” inspired by Nagoya specialty “Piyorin,” in mid-April 2026. It is priced at 972 yen, tax included, and comes in a 70g package. It will be sold at stations, airports, highway service area and parking area shops, and other souvenir stores in the Tokai region. The product is licensed by JR Tokai Food Service Co., Ltd. Rainy Blue Co., Ltd. is part of the Heso Holdings Group.
Heso Production Co., Ltd. will release “Black Myaku-Myaku Chocolate Crunch with Plush Toy” as an official EXPO2025 licensed product. It is scheduled to go on sale in mid-April 2026 and is priced at 4,180 yen, tax included. The package contains 6 chocolate crunches and 1 Black Myaku-Myaku plush toy. It will be sold at Osaka-Kansai Expo official stores and souvenir shops in the Kansai region.
Fender Music has announced the new made-in-Japan signature model, the “Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster®︎,” for legendary Japanese guitarist Shigeru Suzuki. It will go on sale starting May 13, 2026.
Companies mentioned：フェンダーミュージック株式会社
Qoo10 (eBay Japan) and CHINTAI’s student services have teamed up for the first time. They will support students starting a new life by offering CHINTAI service users coupons worth up to 1,500 yen off purchases on Qoo10.
Companies mentioned：eBay Japan合同会社、株式会社CHINTAI
Original乃木坂46の5期生、中西アルノが4月15日発売の月刊アイドル誌『EX大衆』5-6月合併号の表紙と巻頭グラビアに登場。同号は双葉社から1,100円（税込）で発売され、A4判112ページ。乃木坂46は4月8日に41stシングル「最後に階段を駆け上がったのはいつだ？」を発売し、5月19日から21日には「14th YEAR BIRTHDAY LIVE」を控えている。誌面では中西アルノのステージ上でのパフォーマンスと普段の「ぽんこつ」な一面の「振れ幅」をテーマに、ロングインタビューやグラビアが掲載されている。また、6期生の愛宕心響のグラビアや、岩本蓮加×岡本姫奈、鈴木佑捺×瀬戸口心月の対談、梅澤美波のインタビューなども収録。
Kappa Sushi has teamed up with a brand supervised by world-class pastry chef Takahiro Komai to offer 2 authentic strawberry desserts for a limited time, from April 30 to June 24.
Companies mentioned：カッパ・クリエイト株式会社、コロワイドグループ
Nitori Co., Ltd. has announced that it will introduce year-round hiring for generalist positions starting in fiscal 2026. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, and July and January will be added as hiring periods alongside the existing April and October start dates. The change aims to respond to students’ diverse career outlooks and approaches to job hunting, and to offer more flexible career options. Students focused on their studies or studying abroad, as well as graduates, will be able to join the company in line with the timing of their own ambitions and growth.
The summary of this item is not shown
Kirin Holdings has been selected for “DX Stock 2026,” chosen by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Under “KIRIN Digital Vision 2035,” linked to its long-term management vision “Innovate2035!,” the company is advancing digital transformation of business processes, enhancing the value of existing businesses, and accelerating and developing new businesses. In particular, its efforts to promote the use of generative AI saw AI adoption across the Kirin Group exceed 70% in 2025, reach nearly 100% at its head office, and achieve a 10% rate of task replacement. The company has also delivered tangible results, including developing the preference AI “FJWLA/Fujiwara” and using it in the renewal of Kirin Beer’s flagship product, “Hare Kaze.” By 2025, more than 5,100 employees had taken part in its “DX Dojo” digital skills improvement program, and practical courses had been taken more than 3,500 times.
Koike-ya’s long-running snack “Polinky” will be relaunched on April 13, 2026, with an airy, crispy texture. Merchandise and a prize campaign will also be offered.
Companies mentioned：株式会社湖池屋
DONUTS has added an “AI Journal Entry Creation and Export Feature” to “Jobcan Document Management.” The feature automatically creates journal entries from documents read using AI-OCR, significantly streamlining accounting operations.
Companies mentioned：株式会社DONUTS、ITトレンド
Freee K.K. has launched a starter plan for “freee Outsourcing Management,” which centralizes contracts, orders, invoices and payments with freelancers. Aimed at lean teams and small businesses, the service is available starting at 1,980 yen per month. It addresses increasingly complex legal requirements, including the Freelance Act, the invoice system and the Act on Book Preservation, and removes barriers to adopting outsourcing management for small businesses.
As FamilyMart approaches its 45th anniversary in September 2026, it will hold a collaboration campaign with Morinaga & Co. at approximately 16,400 stores nationwide starting April 14, 2026. The campaign will feature 8 limited-edition sweets and food items inspired by popular brands such as Morinaga Milk Caramel, Angel Pie and Koeda. In particular, the “Morinaga Confectionery-Supervised Hotcake Bun” will debut in a salted caramel flavor for the first time. Since 2021, it has recorded the highest first-week sales among sweet steamed buns for 5 consecutive years.
Mynavi has released its “Survey on Quiet Quitting Among Full-Time Employees 2026.” More than 40% of full-time employees said they engage in “quiet quitting,” highlighting changing attitudes toward work and challenges for companies.
Companies mentioned：株式会社マイナビ
株式会社NEXER and 月刊ポピー conducted a joint survey of parents about children’s academic ability. The results showed that about 70% of parents value their children’s independence while staying involved in their studies from a certain distance.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、月刊ポピー
Starting April 20, 2026, Shincho Shinsho will hold its 23rd anniversary fair, “BEST OF 新潮新書,” at approximately 400 bookstores nationwide. Marking the imprint’s launch in April 2003, 3 notable titles that have sold more than 100,000 copies will appear with exclusive full-obi designs: Machi Tawara’s “Words for Living,” Jane Su’s “What Happened to My Father, Who Was Not Yet in Need of Care,” and Kaho Miyake’s “What Do People with Interesting Stories Read, and How?” The lineup will also include 3 new releases on sale April 17, 2026: Koichiro Kokubun’s “Defeat by the Emperor ─Series of Philosophical Dialogues─,” Noritoshi Furuichi’s “Social Skills Without the Need for Communication Skills,” and Homare Endo’s “The Truth of China’s ‘War of Resistance Against Japan’ as Told by Taiwan’s Classified Military Documents.” Also included are 14 previously published titles, such as Takeshi Yoro’s “The Wall of Fools” (137th printing, with more than 4.61 million copies sold) and Tatsuru Uchida’s “Japan as a Peripheral Nation” (No. 1 in the 2020 Shinsho Awards).
Episode #357 of ABEMA’s “Chance no Jikan,” broadcast on April 12, 2026, featured comedian Ginji Watanabe of the comedy duo Dondekorute holding a “fried rice retirement ceremony,” as well as an account of Gambling Gorilla Yamashita of Gokai Captain winning 1,869,800 yen at regional horse racing.
ISSEY MIYAKE PARFUMS will launch a new fragrance, “Lumiere d’Issey Eau de Parfum,” nationwide on May 13, 2026. Advance sales will begin at directly operated stores and other locations on April 22.
Companies mentioned：ISSEY MIYAKE、SHISEIDO
The Fourth Man, a contemporary Korean play co-produced by 名取事務所 and 普遍的劇団, will be staged in Shimokitazawa starting June 19, 2026. This is the Japan premiere of Lee Boram’s latest work, which explores wrongful convictions.
Companies mentioned：名取事務所、普遍的劇団、ロングランプランニング株式会社
Nippon Columbia Group is holding COLOTEK (コロテック), an AI creative contest with total prize money of 10 million yen. It is seeking original anime created using AI, with the aim of discovering next-generation talent.
Companies mentioned：日本コロムビア株式会社、株式会社フェイス
Capcom Co., Ltd. announced that it will open Chara Cap, a general character goods shop, at Aeon Mall Hanyu on April 24, 2026. Chara Cap is a specialty store selling character goods from games and anime, as well as original Capcom merchandise. The new store will display a life-size figure of Akuma, a character from the Street Fighter series. The adjacent capsule toy spot, Capsule Lab, will also be expanded, bringing the total number of capsule toy machines to more than 1,700.
DMM GAMES, operated by EXNOA LLC, has launched a limited-time event in its women-oriented literary reincarnation simulation game Bungo and Alchemist, allowing players to reincarnate the new literary author Harunami Oshikawa (CV: Nobuyuki Hiyama). The event runs from April 10, 2026, to 13:59 on May 1. Players can obtain Harunami Oshikawa by using the special item “Refined Spirit Fluid” to refine a “Guiding Book of the Living Soul.” The “Refined Spirit Fluid” can be obtained as a reward for completing limited research or by purchasing limited-time sets.
Director Hirokazu Kore-eda will receive the 2nd TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY AWARD at SSFF & ASIA 2026. The award will be presented at the opening ceremony on May 25.
Companies mentioned：TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY、MoN Takanawa、J-WAVE
As part of its 10th-anniversary special program “30-Hour Limit-Breaking Festival,” ABEMA held “The Ultimate Viral Song Festival” at 7 p.m. on April 12, 2026. The festival featured 23 acts, including FRUITS ZIPPER, Maki Goto, Juice=Juice, SWEET STEADY and VIBY, performing songs with more than 6 billion total plays on social media. VIBY gave its media debut performance of “Mi*light,” its debut song released on April 8, 2026, and Juice=Juice performed “More! Mi Amore.” The hosts were Kyoko Saito and Erina Iwata.
Original株式会社カワノのインテリアブランド「NIPONIQUE」が、2026年のミラノデザインウィークに出展します。日本の伝統的な建築素材と職人技術を活かした家具やランプを発表します。
Companies mentioned：株式会社カワノ、トクラス社、Wicky’s Innovative Japanese Cuisine、鮨おがわ
GP Inc. has launched the 2026 Catan Japan Championship. The opening Chubu tournament drew 141 participants, and the share of first-time participants exceeded 30% for the 3rd consecutive year.
bajji Inc. has added a dedicated “For AI” page to its corporate website, enabling AI agents and large language models (LLMs) to retrieve and understand information in a structured way. The page organizes company and service information in a machine-readable format as a new approach to information sharing for an era in which AI “reads” companies. “For AI” features structured data (JSON-LD) support, llms.txt format support, JSON/YAML exports, detailed MCP Server information, and cross-service organization. President and CEO Norikazu Kobayashi said that in an era when AI selects and compares companies, “being read correctly by AI” will become a new source of competitive advantage. bajji offers mySDG, a media platform that visualizes progress on the SDGs; Feelyou, an emotion diary app; and capture.x, an app for a decarbonized society, and has received multiple awards, including the Google Play Best of 2020 Grand Prize.
USACO Corporation will hold the 3rd session of its free online seminar series “Basic Statistics,” on data analysis using Excel and XLSTAT, on April 15 and April 23, 2026. Data science expert Takuma Nishimaki will lead the seminar, explaining hypothesis testing through demonstrations, including how to think about statistical significance, understand p-values, and use methods such as t-tests, analysis of variance and chi-square tests. Through practical examples such as marketing initiatives and product comparisons, participants will systematically learn how to make and test data-based decisions, with content applicable in a wide range of settings from business to research. XLSTAT is a statistical analysis add-in that runs in Excel and is used in more than 150 countries worldwide.
Original株式会社ベイクルーズのブランドJOURNAL STANDARD relumeは、bunaiとのコラボレーションにより、インドの伝統技法（ブロックプリント、ジャムダニ織り、ハンド刺繍）を用いたファッションコレクションを2ヶ月連続で発売します。第一弾は4月中旬にAJRAK PRINT SHIRTS（10,450円）などを、第二弾は5月上旬にHALF SLEEVE EMBROIDERY SHIRTS（13,200円）とJAMDANI LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS（16,500円）をリリースします。展開店舗はJOURNAL STANDARD relume各店およびベイクルーズ オンラインストアです。
The summary of this item is not shown
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi will launch its limited-time “Early Summer in France Afternoon Tea” on May 11, 2026. Executive Pastry Chef Michele Abbate Marco will serve sweets made with early-summer French fruits and rare loquats, while guest chef Charles-Henri will offer a savory tart featuring asparagus.
Oro Co., Ltd. has begun full-scale sales of Semrush Enterprise AIO, a new solution supporting AI search optimization (AIO), and will exhibit at “Marketing Week Spring” and speak at a seminar.
Companies mentioned：Google、OpenAI、RX Japan株式会社
TAC Co., Ltd. will hold a free online seminar via Zoom at 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026, to help candidates prepare for the multiple-choice section of the labor and social security attorney exam. Instructor Keiko Nukiba will discuss trends and analysis of multiple-choice questions, how to clear the passing score, and study methods. Time will also be set aside for questions and answers. TAC Co., Ltd. was established in December 1980 and operates in personal education, corporate training, publishing and staffing.
The drama The Man Who Carried the Voices of August, planned and produced by WOWOW, has won the 34th Hashida Award (Reiwa 7 fiscal year). Based on the true story of journalist Akihiko Ito, who lived in Nagasaki and continued collecting the voices of atomic bomb survivors, the work depicts the fateful encounters brought about by the atomic bomb. It was praised for quietly examining the meaning of passing on the experiences of atomic bomb survivors and memories of war, as well as the nature of human dignity. It is WOWOW's first Hashida Award. The drama was produced as the first installment of WOWOW's domestic production business and aired on NHK in August 2025 as a drama marking 80 years since the end of the war. The Hashida Award is presented by the Hashida Cultural Foundation, which has honored programs, works and people contributing to the promotion and advancement of broadcast culture since 1993.
Arma Bianca Inc. began accepting orders on April 3 through its online store AMNIBUS for 2 new items from the TV special anime The Quintessential Quintuplets＊: an A1 tapestry and a BIG can badge. The products come in 6 designs: Ichika Nakano, Nino Nakano, Miku Nakano, Yotsuba Nakano, Itsuki Nakano, and a group design. The A1 tapestry is priced at ¥6,380 each (tax included), and the BIG can badge at ¥1,100 each (tax included).
Jun's women's brand VIS will release the 6th collection of exclusive items with POLO BCS on April 24, 2026. The collection features 4 new styles offering an urban resort look.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ジュン、POLO BRITISH COUNTRY SPIRIT (POLO BCS)
Eikei University has been selected for 1 of 9 model cases nationwide in the “Collection of Good Practices in University Admissions for Reiwa 6” published by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Its initiatives for the “comprehensive selection (spring admission)” were particularly praised for promoting reforms connecting high schools and universities, including collaboration with high schools. This admissions method emphasizes students' independent motivation to learn, based on their studies and experiences in high school, and facilitates a smooth transition to university education. The ministry will share this good practice widely, and Eikei University's initiatives are expected to contribute to admissions reform at universities nationwide. Eikei University will continue to promote education connected with society and work to welcome students with a strong desire to learn.
Triple Comma Inc. officially released Hills high, a dating app for the Japanese market, on April 10, 2026. The app uses multiple verification procedures, including phone number authentication, identity verification and document screening, and only members who pass the screening can register. Members who pass based on Hills high's own screening criteria receive a badge, helping ease concerns about false information and supporting safe dating and matchmaking. The app also offers a Hills Residence Badge for residents of Hills Residence, and women can register by undergoing profile screening.
IMAGICA Entertainment Media Services has signed a long-term partnership agreement for the Japanese market with UK-based Unique X, a provider of digital cinema solutions. The companies will roll out solutions in Japan for managing cinema advertising and transforming theater operations.
Companies mentioned：株式会社IMAGICA GROUP、Unique Digital Limited (Unique X)
Global media company Complex is entering the Japanese market through a joint venture with TWIN PEAKS TOKYO Inc. The partnership takes effect in March 2026, with websites, social media, video and audio content, events and merchandise to be rolled out under the name Complex Japan from June. The partnership aims to create new cultural experiences by combining Complex's global cultural perspective with Japan's editorial expertise.
Global US culture media outlet Complex has launched its Japanese edition. Yuki Abe, formerly of Hypebeast Japan, has been named editor-in-chief, with a full-scale launch planned for June 2026.
Companies mentioned：シーズ・オブ・タイム株式会社、株式会社TWIN PEAKS TOKYO、Complex
“Chicken Tofu, Two-Color Style,” developed by chef Miyori Fujii of Kuriya Shichidaime Matsugoro, earned the highest score in the history of TV Asahi's Kitchen Car Daisakusen. The dish will be served at CRAFT SAKE WEEK 2026, held at Roppongi Hills Arena from April 17 to 20, 2026. Another 4 dishes will also be served at the event, showcasing the appeal of sake and food.
Japan's HR Department, a knowledge community for recruitment, employee development and organizational development, has opened entries for the HR Award 2026. Entries are accepted in 3 categories: corporate HR initiatives, services for HR professionals, and books useful for HR work. The deadline is May 29. The awards recognize outstanding initiatives through votes from approximately 400,000 regular members and final approval by HR leaders, with the aim of sharing HR knowledge and helping businesses grow. The 2025 award recipients included Honda Motor Co., YKK AP, YOUTRUST, Benesse Corporation and Smart Consultation Room.
KREO Inc. has released a new “tablet mode” for its iYOYAKU reservation product management system, making in-store reservations paperless. Customers can now enter reservations directly on a tablet, eliminating the need for store staff to transcribe paper application forms and helping improve operational efficiency and reduce data entry errors. iYOYAKU also supports real-time inventory management across multiple stores and the launch of web reservation sites.
AEON Fantasy Co., Ltd. will launch the Pastel Color Series from plush toy artist Ayumi Ozaki's brand mojojojo at Molly Fantasy, PALO, Molly Online and other locations nationwide from Friday, April 17, 2026. The lineup includes 5 prize-game items in 19 varieties and 1 capsule toy item in 5 varieties. The capsule toy costs ¥498 (tax included). A social media campaign will also be held.
Nitori's Deco Home launched its 2026 Contact-Cooling N Cool bedding in early April. The products feature cute original designs, including floral and animal prints.
On its variety show Shikujiri Sensei, ABEMA featured the turbulent life and many failures of KFC founder Colonel Sanders. The performers also shared stories of their own failures.
Companies mentioned：KFC、ミシュランタイヤ、スタンダード石油、TKO、日向坂46
Idol group VVSiS held birthday celebration producer shows for members Yuuno Woyuta and Fuyui Haku in March and April. Despite having debuted only recently, the group successfully held solo shows and delivered performances showcasing each member's individuality.
Companies mentioned：I NEW MATES (プロジェクト)
NHK Culture will hold an online course, “Two Thousand Years of Runes: An Introduction to Runic Writing,” tracing the 2,000-year history of runes, with Minoru Ozawa, a professor in the College of Arts at Rikkyo University, as instructor. The course will be streamed on Zoom over multiple sessions from May 19 to Oct. 13, 2026. Tuition is 21,120 yen, and on-demand recordings will also be available.
The summary of this item is not shown
The summary of this item is not shown
German watchmaker Sinn Spezialuhren has unveiled the “308 Hunting Watch” ahead of the Watches and Wonders trade fair. Designed for the challenging light conditions encountered during hunting, the watch features a moonlight display at the 6 o'clock position to indicate when natural moonlight is bright enough. It also uses luminous material made from hybrid ceramic and Ar-dry technology to ensure excellent legibility and reliability. With water resistance to 20 atmospheres and decompression resistance, this technically sophisticated model is also suitable for everyday wear.
Original函館大沼プリンスホテルは、2026年5月15日（金）から16日（土）の2日間、「あかり旅マルシェ」を開催します。このイベントは、旅行者と地域住民の交流を目的とし、森の中に「りんごいろのドア」を設置。夜には焚火バーや地元ミュージシャンの生演奏、スカイランタンなど幻想的な演出が楽しめます。地域の魅力を感じるマルシェも同時開催され、入場料は無料です。
Four facilities in Saitama Prefecture—Kuni Country Club, Musashigaoka Golf Course, Shin-Musashigaoka Golf Course and Seibuen Golf Course—will introduce cooler carts across their entire fleets as a summer heatstroke countermeasure. With extreme heat forecast this summer, the facilities will provide carts equipped with coolers adjustable from 5°C to 26°C at no extra charge, helping golfers enjoy the game in comfort. The initiative aims to make playing golf safer even in hot Saitama Prefecture.
Toshiba Lifestyle will launch new ZABOON fully automatic washing machine models with a “low and wide opening” that makes it easier to load and unload clothes, in June and July. Following the positive response to its large-capacity models, the feature is being extended to 9/8 kg models.
Job Live Inc. has announced details of “MUJINTO cinema CAMP JINOSHIMA,” an outdoor cinema festival to be held May 30–31, 2026, on Jinoshima, an uninhabited island in Arida, Wakayama Prefecture. The films to be screened are “Begin Again” (directed by John Carney; starring Keira Knightley and others; 2013, United States) and “The Intouchables” (directed and written by Éric Toledano and others; starring François Cluzet and others; 2011, France). The event will also feature the ROCK DJ PARTY “Play it!!,” live performances by artists including singer-songwriter 風見穏香, and daytime activities such as tent saunas, SUP, driftwood art and making original syrups. Tickets are on sale through the event’s sales website.
PropTech Japan Inc. has added the new e-commerce service “RE Shopping” to its rent payment app “RentEase.” Points can now be used interchangeably for rent and shopping, and the membership registration process has been significantly simplified.
Companies mentioned：福岡ソフトバンクホークス
A book fair featuring works by Hidekazu Watanabe, president and CEO of Concord Executive Group Inc., is running at Junkudo Bookstore Ikebukuro Main Store from April 11 to April 24, 2026. The fair features “A Comprehensive Study of the Consulting Industry, 9th Edition,” which has sold over 25万 copies and ranked No. 1 in the University of Tokyo Co-op rankings, and “Career Lessons for Building the Future,” adopted as a textbook at the University of Tokyo and Hitotsubashi University. The former was released on January 15, 2026, and the latter on October 3, 2017. Watanabe is also a visiting professor at Hitotsubashi University and was the inaugural MVP in the consulting division of the Japan Head Hunter Awards.
HARIO Co., Ltd. will launch the “CLEAR BREW POT,” a new teapot designed for one-handed pouring. The product eliminates the need to hold down the lid, a step required with conventional teapots, in response to requests from food-service businesses for a smooth, one-handed pour. Its stackable design also allows for efficient use of limited kitchen space. A large strainer brings out the aroma of tea leaves, while the wide opening makes the pot easy to clean. It has a price of 6,600 yen, including tax, and a practical capacity of 600 mL.
Rice cracker manufacturer and seller Kuriyama Beika Co., Ltd. will launch “Baka-uke Soup Curry Flavor,” a Hokkaido-exclusive product supervised by GARAKU, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The product was developed based on the affinity between the rice served with soup curry and the rice that is the main ingredient in Baka-uke. It features the savory taste of rice, the aroma of spices and Japanese-style broth. The individual packaging uses designs evoking the world of soup curry. The product will be sold at locations including New Chitose Airport shops and Sapporo Station shops. The company was established on February 5, 1949, and its president is Taiga Kuriyama.
Marche Co., Ltd. will run a limited-time campaign starting April 15, 2026, at its 13 directly operated Hakken Sakaba locations, offering “Scallops Grilled with Soy Sauce and Butter” for a special price of 280 yen (308 yen including tax), limited to the first 15 servings. The regular price is 480 yen (528 yen including tax). Participating locations are in Tokyo, Aichi, Osaka, Hyogo, Okayama and Hiroshima prefectures. Marche Co., Ltd. operates izakaya chains and had 275 locations as of March 31, 2025.
Safi Spa Maiko Men’s Sauna in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, will hold a “GW Special Event” during Golden Week, from May 1 to May 6, 2026. Guest sauna masters including BIBI, Yuichi the Cyclone and Yansu will give aufguss performances. On May 5, students can take advantage of a special discount (3 hours for 2,000 yen), and there will be a “grab-bag candy game.” On May 6, the final day, all men’s sauna guests can use the hotel’s “Luxury Bath” free of charge. The venue is on basement level 1 of the new SPA Tower at Seaside Hotel Maiko Villa Kobe.
Adventure Inc. Placole will hold the “First Wedding Experience Festival” under its “PLACOLE & DRESSY” brand at DRESSY ROOM OSAKA, on the 6F of the KITTE Osaka commercial complex directly connected to Osaka Station, from April 25–27 and 29, 2026. The event offers private 90-minute consultations on finding a wedding venue, wedding dress try-ons and photography experiences, and will introduce more than 1,700 certified venues nationwide. Participation is free and requires advance reservations, with space limited to 40 couples. Perks include a starter dress photo shoot for the first 10 couples, coupons worth up to 111,500 yen for everyone who meets the requirements, premium original tea and an original Placole marriage registration form.
Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. will launch 8 items in the new summer-ready “Saratto Cotton Mesh Knit” series from MUJI starting April 20, as well as the “Foot-Fitting Right Angle: All-Mesh Saratto Cotton” series, rolling them out at stores nationwide and online. The new products use the fabric from the popular “Saratto Cotton Innerwear” series and are made with a mesh knit designed to feel comfortable against the skin and resist stuffiness. Designed for comfort even during prolonged extreme heat, they feature moisture absorption and release, as well as odor control. Featured products include a men’s crew-neck short-sleeved T-shirt, flyless boxer briefs, children’s and baby tank tops, and men’s short socks. Ryohin Keikaku is advancing product development with a focus on using natural materials and reducing environmental impact, with the aim of realizing “a pleasant life and society.”
Taiyo Tosho Co., Ltd. published the mook “Tasty Shareholder Benefits! Living on Dividends: Spring Household Budget Defense Edition,” focused on shareholder-benefit investing, which is drawing attention amid continued price increases, on Monday, April 13, 2026. The publication covers about 800 stocks and features articles including “Spring Household Budget Defense: Tasty Shareholder-Benefit Stocks, with a Ranking of 267 Stocks!!” and “Dividend-Paying Shareholder-Benefit Stocks Available for 100,000 Yen or Less.” Priced at 1,180 yen (tax included), it offers long-term investors information on building assets and enjoying shareholder benefits and dividend income.
In episode #113 of ABEMA’s “Nananii: Underground ABEMA,” broadcast on April 12, 2026, featured personalities making waves on social media included Ran, a gal cross-stitch artisan; handsome elementary school student Sha-kun and his mother, Mizuki Mama; a rice-farming couple; and the manager of a sticker-trading café. The program introduced their jobs and private lives. Ran shared an anecdote about appearing in a SUPER EIGHT music video, while Sha-kun revealed that he turned down a scouting offer from HYBE.
Original株式会社Leaner Technologiesは、電力・通信インフラを支える株式会社かんでんエンジニアリングにおける調達DXプラットフォーム「リーナー見積」の導入事例を公開しました。かんでんエンジニアリングは、従来の受け身の購買から脱却し、設計段階から購買部門が関与する「上流購買」への転換を戦略として掲げていました。導入後、購買部全体の事務工数を2〜3割削減し、バイヤーが各支店の設計・工事部門へ直接出向く「上流工程への参画」を本格的に始動。これにより、情報の属人化解消とガバナンス強化も実現しました。
Ichibanya Co., Ltd. will offer “Kerala Chicken Spice Curry” in limited quantities at Curry House CoCo Ichibanya locations nationwide starting April 16, 2026. Inspired by Kerala chicken curry, a popular dish in the Indian state of Kerala, it combines coconut milk, a variety of spices and the fresh heat of green chili peppers. The dish features tender chicken and potatoes, served with carrot achar. The price for dining in is 1,040 yen (1,144 yen including tax).
Alpenrose Co., Ltd.’s hair care brand La CASTA will hold an opening ceremony on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at La CASTA Natural Healing Garden in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture, to mark the brand’s 30th anniversary. The ceremony will look back on La CASTA’s 30-year history and discuss its future outlook, followed by a talk show with Omachi City native and Olympic badminton medalist Nozomi Okuhara and professional mountain runner Rui Ueda. On the same day, “La CASTA Garden Aroma Hand Cream” (65 g, 2,530 yen including tax) will go on sale exclusively at La CASTA’s Northern Alps flagship store.
U-NEXT began streaming the HBO original drama “Euphoria” Season 3 exclusively on April 13, 2026. Popular cast members including Zendaya return in the series, which portrays the intense daily lives of Rue and the others as adults.
Companies mentioned：HBO
“90 English,” an English coaching service operated by 90 Inc., began airing a digest of its appearance on the business video media outlet “PIVOT” as a taxi advertisement on April 13, 2026. The video has surpassed 300,000 views, and the ad targets businesspeople who are less likely to encounter digital advertising. The ad introduces the “throat pronunciation” method and how easy it is to keep up with learning, and tells viewers they can combine a 1-month extension (worth 110,000 yen) with the employment insurance education and training benefit program (up to 100,000 yen).
Linon, the hair care brand of SOLIA Inc., appointed girl group ME:I as brand ambassadors on April 12, 2026, and launched an integrated promotion to coincide with the release of its new “Linon Straight Shampoo & Treatment.” The promotion includes a tie-up with ME:I’s song “Update ME,” which began streaming on April 13, 2026; TikTok posts; a press conference; a social media campaign starting April 17, 2026; and a limited-edition collaboration package scheduled to go on sale in late May 2026 at retail stores, Amazon and Qoo10. Linon also offers products such as “Linon Lock Oil,” which earned an Amazon Best Seller badge.
WEGO will begin advance sales of collaboration items with NCT WISH, who are affiliated with SM ENTERTAINMENT, through the WEGO online store on April 17, with in-store sales starting on the 18th.
Companies mentioned：SM ENTERTAINMENT
Kantaro Oizumi, head of Oizumi Kojo, has been appointed co-producer of カクシンハン’s stage production “Titus Andronicus: Reborn.” The production will open the Craiova International Shakespeare Festival in May 2026.
Companies mentioned：株式会社大泉工場、株式会社トゥービー、Theatre Company カクシンハン
LUNA EARTH, an affordable accessories brand operated by 株式会社エンドレス, will open one of its largest stores in Japan at Aeon Mall Osaka Dome City on April 17, 2026. A novelty campaign using social media will also be held.
Companies mentioned：株式会社エンドレス
To celebrate its 2nd anniversary, Gifu Prefecture’s Sushinokimochi will offer its “Premium All-You-Can-Eat Sushi” every Monday and Thursday starting April 13, 2026, at 3,980 yen including tax, down from the regular price of 6,578 yen. The menu features premium ingredients including fatty bluefin tuna from Oma, Aomori Prefecture, sea urchin and salmon roe, and is served in a 1-hour seating with all guests starting at the same time. Restrictions on drink orders have also been lifted. As of April 2026, it had a Tabelog rating of 3.59 stars.
U-Factor Holdings Co., Ltd. announces that Dr. Yasuhiro Seta, director of Hitonowa Medical, presented the results of a prospective interventional study of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) using human dental pulp-derived stem cell culture supernatant (U-Factor® solution) at the 25th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine. The groundbreaking study is the first in the world to show the potential of a new treatment for improving function in patients with the intractable disease ALS. No serious adverse effects were observed during 12 weeks of continuous administration, and improvements in respiratory function and suppression of disease progression were observed in some cases. Based on these findings, our group will accelerate treatment optimization and real-world implementation.
miramiru and TAIIN have launched a new service that enables artists to build a permanent “personal gallery and museum” in the metaverse, featuring only their own works.
Companies mentioned：株式会社miramiru、株式会社TAIIN、Spatial
About 2 million tons of rice husks are generated in Japan each year, and much of them go unused. The Japan-born food culture project “Kami - 神 -” has launched to find new value in this unused resource. The project focuses on effective use of agricultural byproducts, creating value from unused resources, and redefining food resources. It will soft-launch on April 15, 2026, and develop as a project connecting unused resources with the future of food. NINE SENSE Co., Ltd. operates the project.
A joint collaboration dinner featuring 3 of Tokyo’s best-known sushi restaurants, 鮨 さいとう, 鮨 あらい and 鮨 龍次郎, was held in March 2026 at a hotel on Okinawa’s Kouri Island operated by 合同会社One Suite.
Companies mentioned：合同会社One Suite、鮨 さいとう、鮨 あらい、鮨 龍次郎、やま幸
Contemporary artist Tomokazu Matsuyama will screen his latest video work, “Morning Again,” for 1 month starting April 1, 2026, as part of “Times Square Arts’ Midnight Moment” in New York’s Times Square. The work will be shown on 96 or more giant LED screens for 3 minutes each day, from 23:57 to 0:00. “Midnight Moment” is a public art project launched by Times Square Arts in 2012 and is viewed by about 2.5 million people annually. Based on the concept of “Four Pillars,” the work abstractly visualizes New York’s diverse cultural forces and features real people as muses.
Mitsubishi Corporation Logistics (MCLOGI) was selected as an outstanding business operator in the Reiwa 7 fiscal-year Eco-Ship Modal Shift Project. Using the Tokyo–Hakata route operated by 株式会社商船三井さんふらわあ and its “TODOCARRY” modal shift service, the company shifted 72% of its transportation to RORO ships, contributing to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and greater supply chain efficiency. This initiative was evaluated under the Eco-Ship Mark certification system promoted by the Maritime Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and others. The company plans to continue expanding advanced logistics solutions that contribute to sustainable social development.
Korean skincare brand Dr.G named popular actor Byeon Woo-seok its global brand ambassador on February 22, 2026. The partnership embodies Dr.G’s philosophy of “the power of soothing” and aims to communicate the brand’s value worldwide through Byeon Woo-seok’s global influence. The brand plans to strengthen engagement with global consumers through photo shoots, videos and social media content. New visuals were also unveiled for Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream and Red Blemish Hyal Cica Soothing Serum, which have surpassed cumulative sales of 32 million units.
Trach Co., Ltd. has strengthened its “health management” efforts, prioritizing employee health after its CEO’s experience with thyroid cancer. The company was recognized as a “Workplace-Wide Health Declaration” business after providing facilities including a free in-house gym.
Companies mentioned：協会けんぽ奈良支部
Our Grave Closure, operated by FooFoo Co., Ltd., surveyed 100 people who had closed family graves about temple withdrawal fees. The survey found that about 76% paid the fees, with amounts most commonly ranging from 100,000 to under 500,000 yen.
Fuyo Shuzo and gin-and-tonic bar Antonic have collaborated on the gin “YOHAKHU THE REFRAMED -WINDING ROAD-,” which will launch on April 20, 2026. The gin comes in a 500mL bottle, has an alcohol content of 45%, and a suggested retail price of 6,600 yen before tax. It uses 11 botanicals, including juniper berries, coriander and apples, and is aged for 7 days in Yoshino cedar barrels. Antonic is operated by Sidecar Co., Ltd.
A survey by online tutoring service Manabuterasu found that 53.7% of user households practice “hybrid learning,” combining online tutoring with cram schools and other options. Reducing the hassle of drop-offs and pick-ups was the top reason for using the service.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ドリームエデュケーション
Willnext Co., Ltd. has released a free “3-part career planning toolkit” for HR professionals. The toolkit supports their career development in 3 areas: identifying strengths, planning actions and exploring career examples. It is part of the company’s services, which help HR professionals think systematically about their own careers and provide consistent support from recruitment through retention and employee success.