Explaining programs that small and midsize corporations can use right away: “Subsidy and Grant Utilization Seminar 2026 in Kagoshima” to be held April 22 (Wed.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人日本中小企業経営者協会 (Representative Director Tetsuaki Ishiguro) will hold a free seminar on the use of grants and subsidies for small and midsize corporations at Kagoshima Prefectural Culture Center Hozan Hall on April 22, 2026. Aimed at small and midsize companies facing rising labor and raw material costs, the seminar will explain everything from how to find grants and subsidies to application know-how. Examples include up to 4.5 million yen for digitization and AI adoption, and up to 2.5 million yen for creating flyers and websites. The utilization rate of grants and subsidies among Japan’s small and midsize businesses remains at 5.5%, and the seminar aims to address the information gap.
Toward a job market without the mismatches that lead to early departures: sales-focused agency “SQiL Career Agent” develops new PVM
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社セレブリックス has developed a new PVM for “SQiL Career Agent,” its sales-focused career transition support service. It aims to eliminate mismatches in job changes and provide long-term career support.
“Will my current training really get me to my goal?”—A researcher in exercise physiology answers that concern with the release of “TriGo,” an AI triathlon coach app
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
トライアスリード株式会社 has released “TriGo,” an AI triathlon coaching app based on exercise physiology, on the App Store. It was developed by the company’s representative, an active triathlete and exercise physiology researcher, and provides training plans and race simulations optimized for each user’s physical abilities and goals.
In Shizuoka, where more couples are choosing not to have a wedding ceremony, a new plan lets families join a photo wedding.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“the STUDIO by We's COLOR,” a photo wedding studio in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, will launch a “Guest Participation Plan” on May 1, 2026, allowing couples to invite family and friends. As more couples choose not to have a wedding ceremony, the studio is proposing a new form of marriage by combining photo weddings with meals and guest participation.
Changing the idea that “rice flour bread is difficult”: seeking “success experience monitors” from beginners to experienced bakers | Launch of a limited-time Golden Week project with paid recipes
The PTR3PLUS recording and playback device for people with visual impairments and the “プレクストークリーダー” app for iPhone
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shinano Kenshi will launch the PTR3PLUS tabletop recording and playback device for people with visual impairments and the “プレクストークリーダー” app for iPhone in June 2026. The products will provide a seamless reading experience at home and on the go, promoting the use of accessible digital books.
New feature “SSS Report Operations System” launched to streamline information sharing for security operations!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Prop Tech plus株式会社 has launched the “SSS Report Operations System” for customers with SSS (Server Security Service) contracts. The system centralizes report receipt and inquiry management.
A blissful canned chuhai lavishly packed with Setouchi’s bounty: “瀬戸内蔵元 白桃れもんSOUR” launches April 21 (Tuesday)! [千福醸造元 三宅本店]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Miyake Honten Co., Ltd., maker of the “千福” sake in Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture, will launch the new “千福 瀬戸内蔵元 白桃れもんSOUR” on April 21, 2026. Drawing on its long experience in sake brewing, the company has created a low-alcohol canned chuhai made with white peach puree from Setouchi and lemons from Setouchi. It features a fragrant peach aroma, fruity sweetness and a refreshing lemon finish, and aims to give younger people an opportunity to discover Setouchi’s alcoholic beverages. The retail price is 209 yen, including tax, and it will be sold at supermarkets, liquor stores and e-commerce sites, primarily in Hiroshima.
The highlights of “BEER HOUR FEST in Tokyo Tower 2026” revealed!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“BEER HOUR FEST in Tokyo Tower 2026” will be held at a special outdoor venue at Tokyo Tower from April 24 to May 6, 2026. The limited-time event will feature German beers such as Hofbräu and Paulaner, Belgian beers such as Hoegaarden, cocktails and food. Admission is free, and the event is organized by the Oktoberfest Executive Committee.
WeRUN launches UI customization feature that turns walking events into company-branded experiences
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
WeRUN, a walking event app, has launched a UI customization feature for businesses to adapt walking events to their own brand. Companies can customize 11 items, including the background image and icons in the app used by event participants, making it possible to design events as brand experiences. The feature was developed in response to businesses’ demand for brand promotion amid the growth of corporate health initiatives and online events. It has already been used in a campaign by a major beverage manufacturer, helping increase participants’ exposure to the brand.
[Survey of 2,000 people] Nearly half worry about a parent dying alone; the figure exceeds 60% among people living alone. “Distance” and “lack of preparation” cited as causes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ブルークリーン株式会社 surveyed 2,000 men and women aged 30–59 and found that nearly half were worried about a parent dying alone.
[Achieved with the Omni Sorter] Boosts shipping efficiency for household goods destined for 100-yen shops by 42%
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ニューウェイ’s Narashino Center has installed Gaussy株式会社’s “Omni Sorter” robotic sorting system, improving shipping efficiency for goods destined for 100-yen shops by 42%. The company announced the release of a video showing results after half a year of operation and plans to hold an on-site tour.
Original ozoni contest “第4回Ｚ–１グランプリ”: applications open for media coverage of the Grand Prix final (final judging)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The National Association of Culinary Training Institutions will hold the Grand Prix final (final judging) of the “第4回Z-1 Grand Prix,” an event aimed at preserving ozoni culture, at 東京すし和食調理専門学校 on May 22, 2026, and is accepting media inquiries for coverage.
丸文株式会社 will hold a free online “LTspice Hands-on Seminar (Operational Amplifier Edition)” on April 28, 2026. Using Analog Devices’ LTspice simulator and the general-purpose operational amplifier AD8691 as an example, participants will learn hands-on how to check and improve stability, noise characteristics, AOL and GBW. The seminar aims to improve development efficiency and quality. It covers the same content as the webinar held on March 3.
KYC Consulting has updated its “RiskAnalyze” anti-organized-crime screening tool with domestic PEPs (politically exposed persons) information and an operation log management feature.
High school students discover their authentic selves on a journey to “Japan’s most challenge-minded town”—region-focused university holds SPRING SCHOOL in Yokose, Saitama Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Satonova University held “SATONOVA SPRING SCHOOL 2026” for high school students in Yokose, Saitama Prefecture. Five students from across Japan experienced personal transformation through local interactions and self-exploration using AI.
[Early mornings only during Golden Week] Spectacular “Great Sheep Pasture Release” event to be held for 7 days only! Mother Farm releases details of its special Golden Week hours
LiDAR-equipped educational mobile robot Light Rover updated with ROS 2 support
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ヴイストン株式会社 has updated the ROS 2 support documentation and samples for its LiDAR-equipped educational mobile robot, “Light Rover,” to the latest LTS version (Jazzy) and released them free of charge.
[Popular pet insurance ranking] Top 5 for April 2026 announced! | Pixy’s pet insurance comparison
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Pixy’s Pet Insurance Comparison” has announced its April 2026 Top 5 popular pet insurance ranking, based on applications received from March 1 to March 31, 2026. PS Insurance ranked 1st, FPC 2nd, Dai-ichi iPet 3rd, Rakuten Pet Insurance 4th and SBI Pet Small-Amount and Short-Term Insurance 5th; all offer plans with 70% coverage. The release also includes information about the operating company, 株式会社ピクシー.
Carstay to showcase 14 camper vans for visitors to experience at “Yokohama Frühling Fest 2026,” held during Golden Week at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Carstay is sponsoring the “Yokohama Frühlings Fest 2026,” held at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, and will exhibit 14 vehicles, including EV camper vans. Visitors can also experience the interiors in the day-camping area.
Notice Regarding the Voluntary Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS Accounting Standards)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Merchant Bankers Co., Ltd. resolved at a board meeting held today to voluntarily adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS Accounting Standards) for its consolidated financial statements starting with the fiscal year-end in October 2026. The company is shifting from stable real estate investments toward more profitable M&A and equity investments. Changing to IFRS Accounting Standards will allow it to exclude goodwill from amortization in M&A and reflect unrealized gains on investment projects in its consolidated financial statements, with the aim of increasing its corporate value as an investment company.
Fabric sign “QuickMobile” adopted for Kumagaya City, Saitama, press conference board — First by a local government! Environmentally conscious signage that requires no tools and can be set up in about 10 seconds
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TONICHI Printing, one of the world’s largest newspaper printers, has announced “Quick Mobile,” a new series of fabric backlit signs made from 100% recycled plastic-bottle fabric. The new product requires no tools and can be set up in about 10 seconds, offering environmentally conscious signage. Kumagaya City in Saitama Prefecture became the first local government to adopt “Quick Mobile” to eliminate creases and wrinkles in its press conference backdrop, a longstanding issue. City staff have highly praised how easy it is to install and its contribution to rapid information dissemination. The TONICHI Group will continue to step up proposals to local governments and public facilities, aiming to promote environmentally friendly fabric signs.
TRANBI: A supermarket that has served as “food infrastructure” for a town of 10,000 for 30 years begins seeking a successor by name — “Community succession,” an option for protecting life in Okuizumo
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yokota Kuraichi, a shopping center in Okuizumo, Shimane Prefecture, has begun publicly seeking a successor by name on TRANBI, an M&A matching platform.
“Email sales,” used by about 80%, is “of unclear effectiveness” for more than half; lack of an analysis environment is the cause, and demand for “visibility” that can affect results is emerging
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Arara surveyed 1,004 sales representatives about email sales. While about 60% use it frequently, more than half do not measure its effectiveness, highlighting demand for visualized analytics.
10th Anniversary Special: Atami auberge launches a plan with 5 special perks, for a luxurious moment with featured wines and cuisine | From April 24, 2026
Send Mom something she loves! Reservations open for Mother’s Day gifts featuring character flowers from Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi. My Peridot in Nishinomiya, Hyogo, delivers nationwide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Nishinomiya, Hyogo-based online shop My Peridot Animal Flower Shop has begun taking reservations for Mother’s Day gifts featuring preserved flowers inspired by San-X characters, including Rilakkuma, Sumikko Gurashi, and Tarepanda. The preserved flowers require no watering, can be enjoyed for a long time, and are allergy-free. The gifts include free nationwide shipping (excluding Okinawa), complimentary wrapping, and a message card. Reservations made by April 15, 2026, qualify for an early-bird discount of up to 1,000 yen.
[Seminar] The latest strategies for 2026! SEO techniques using “firsthand information” to get selected by MEO and AI search | Ielove GROUP
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Ielove GROUP, which provides DX support services for the real estate industry, will hold free online seminars on April 20 and 21, 2026. The seminars will focus on “SEO techniques using ‘firsthand information’ to get selected by MEO and AI search” and explain how to attract customers without relying on advertising by using firsthand information, such as real-life experiences and photos, that AI cannot generate. The seminars are intended for real estate company staff.
Commemorating the announcement of DJI Osmo Pocket 4 | YouTube livestream and in-store hands-on event to be held simultaneously on Thursday, April 16
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Sekido, an authorized DJI dealer, will hold a YouTube livestream and an in-store hands-on event to commemorate the announcement of “DJI Osmo Pocket 4” on April 16, 2026.
[Omiya Station] “Chiikawa” × “Tokyo Banana” collaboration 2nd installment: “Muchau-ma” cookie sandwiches debut! Popular banana pudding cakes and tote bag sets also available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Grapestone Co., Ltd. is opening a temporary pop-up store for its 'Tokyo Banana' brand, featuring a collaboration with the 'Chiikawa' character series. The store will operate from April 20 to May 6, 2026, at Ecute Omiya within JR Omiya Station. New products include a cookie sand, alongside existing pudding cakes and merchandise sets.
Praised by Machi Tawara! Essayist Yuka Nakama’s long-awaited new book, “Drop Poroporo,” goes on sale April 23!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Essayist Yuka Nakama’s new collection of essays, “Drop Poroporo,” will be released by Kodansha on April 23, 2026. The book is a substantially revised edition of her previously sold-out self-published zine of the same name, with 6 new essays added. To mark its release, a talk event and signing will be held at Daikanyama T-Site Bookstore on April 28, 2026. The author was born in Hyogo Prefecture and has been writing for “ほぼ日刊イトイ新聞” and other publications since 2017.
Maruhachi Kasei Co., Ltd. has released the 1st installment of “Ouroboros Clip Oboro,” a glow-in-the-dark, 中日ドラゴンズ-approved licensed product. The 15 cheering items, featuring glowing player numbers and logos, are suitable for everyday use and disaster preparedness, and will go on sale on Rakuten Ichiba and TikTok Shop from April 14, 2026.
The state of image-generating AI and creators today — “Expectations and concerns” among creators revealed by a survey on image-generating AI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Illustration Association (JILLA) conducted a member survey on image-generating AI, revealing creators’ “expectations and concerns.” While copyright infringement and other problems are occurring frequently, respondents also expressed hopes for AI as a tool to improve work efficiency and support idea generation, underscoring the need for systems and rights protections.
Beyond AI Inc. has launched “AI Creator Team” and “AI Engineer Team,” new services available from 200,000 yen per month, to help companies address AI talent shortages. These services enable companies to reduce recruitment and training costs and quickly put AI teams ready to contribute to work. Solutions span AI advertising image and video production, digital human production, AI system development, and API integration and automation development. The services are expected to cut labor costs by up to 70% and significantly accelerate AI adoption.
EU2-1000MF large-format UV flatbed printer supports business growth with broad application capabilities
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ローランド ディー.ジー.株式会社 has announced and released the EU2-1000MF, a large-format UV flatbed printer that can print directly on a wide range of thick materials. With 1.5 times the productivity of the previous model and support for a broad range of applications, it helps companies considering a shift to digital printing and those looking to expand their businesses.
Launch of “AOM Prime,” an OEM-style service providing comprehensive support for establishing an AI implementation support business.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AI Ops Manager株式会社 began offering AOM Prime, an OEM-style service supporting the launch of AI implementation support businesses, in April 2026. The service provides an AI talent database and industry-specific expertise, helping partner companies launch AI businesses in as little as 1 week.
Launch of a simulation service to support optical and lighting verification before prototyping
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社インテグラ will launch a simulation service to support optical and lighting verification before prototyping on May 1, 2026. This enables companies and engineers to obtain the simulation results they need without the burden of purchasing dedicated software or learning how to use it.
Vsinger Tendo Laika to release 1st EP “Raika” on April 26, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Vsinger production “リズプロ｜Rhythm-Garden Project” announced that its Vsinger Tendo Laika will release her 1st EP, “雷華,” on Sunday, April 26, 2026. It will be available for the first time at M3-2026 Spring, held on the same day, and will also go on sale through CD mail order and various music streaming services. The EP, a work symbolizing the early days of Tendo Laika’s career, features songs released after her debut as well as new tracks, with “continuing to pursue one’s dreams” as its theme.
[Now available on Studio Store] Intuitive updates to project portfolios and events. “Architecture & Construction | Corporate” template delivers professional-quality design
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
コロニーインタラクティブ株式会社 has officially released the “Architecture & Construction | Corporate” template on Studio Store, the official marketplace for the no-code web design tool Studio. Designed with the needs and concerns of prospective homebuyers as its top priority, the template lets users intuitively update content such as “Project Portfolio,” “Customer Testimonials” and “Event Information” through a CMS. It features professional-quality design and responsive support, and is priced at 12,800 yen, tax included.
[Free admission] One of Japan’s largest family festivals, attracting 300,000 visitors annually, to be held in 8 cities: Nagoya, Kanazawa, Fukui, Himeji, Fukushima, Hachioji, Shiga and Kitakyushu
Research and development selected for the revision of the Offshore Wind Conditions Map (NeoWins)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NEDO selected 1 research and development project to revise the offshore wind conditions map “NeoWins” under its wind power deployment support program. To address industry needs arising from larger wind turbines and the development of regulatory frameworks, the project will develop a wind conditions simulation model using the latest meteorological and oceanographic data, as well as a map viewing system, to create a more reliable offshore wind conditions map. The budget is approximately 830 million yen, and the project is scheduled to run from fiscal 2025 through fiscal 2027.
[Musashino University] Supporting community activities in English and Chinese: Global Studies Faculty’s Kanki Seminar to hold a community disaster preparedness event at Toyosu Jogaio Marche on Saturday, April 18
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Kanki Uiichi Seminar of the Department of Japanese Communication in Musashino University’s Faculty of Global Studies will hold a community disaster preparedness event at Michino Terrace Toyosu on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The event aims to provide disaster preparedness information to foreign residents of Toyosu and encourage participation in community activities through support in English and Chinese. In collaboration with Fukagawa Fire Station, activities will include an earthquake simulator experience, fire extinguisher practice and an exhibit of everyday emergency supplies.
[Collaboration with 森半 returns!] Kyoto’s long-established bakery グランディール launches new breads made with “first flush tea” supervised by a tea master, including “Kyoto Fresh Tear-Apart Bread – Uji First Flush Tea,” fragrant with refreshing yuzu, and a bagel pairing matcha with brown sugar syrup and milk
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kyoto’s long-established bakery グランディール is teaming up once again with the historic tea shop 森半 to release 5 new breads made with “first flush tea” supervised by a tea master, for a limited time starting May 1, 2026. The lineup includes “Kyoto Fresh Tear-Apart Bread,” fragrant with yuzu, and a bagel with matcha and brown sugar syrup and milk, offering the rich flavor of Uji matcha.
[Two and a half years after the stealth marketing regulations] Winning strategies of the “post-stealth marketing era” come together. Learn marketing techniques for creating the next hit from “Cup Mala Tang,” which sold 10 million units on social media!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RX Japan will hold the 26th Marketing Week - Spring 2026 in April 2026, bringing together methods for creating “advertising people want to spread themselves” in the wake of stealth marketing regulations.
Companies mentioned：RX Japan 合同会社、Hattyu株式会社、医食同源ドットコム、株式会社JTB、株式会社シンフィールド、アドバーチャ株式会社、株式会社アトムストーリー
[From materials and smart agriculture to farm management] Western Japan’s largest¹ gathering of the latest agricultural technologies. “Kyushu Agriculture Week” to be held in Kumamoto for 3 days from Wednesday, May 27.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RX Japan合同会社 will hold the 4th Kyushu Agriculture WEEK, one of western Japan’s largest events, at Grandmesse Kumamoto from May 27 to 29, 2026. Aiming to address challenges facing Japanese agriculture, including an aging workforce, labor shortages and rising prices, the event will bring together the latest technologies and solutions in smart agriculture and resource-efficient farming.
A pop-up event featuring OIGEN, a long-established Nambu ironware maker, will be held at LightUp/Zekoo Ginza Store, a directly operated shop of LightUp Shopping Club, from April 18 to 25, 2026.
Explaining programs that small and medium-sized corporations can use right away: “Subsidy and Grant Utilization Seminar 2026 in Kumamoto” to be held Wednesday, April 22
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan Association of Small and Medium-Sized Business Owners will hold the “Subsidy and Grant Utilization Seminar 2026 in Kumamoto” in Kumamoto on April 22, 2026. The seminar will explain how small and medium-sized corporations facing rising labor and raw material costs can use grants and subsidies, as well as application know-how. Last year, the association held more than 100 presentations nationwide, with more than 9,000 companies participating. This seminar will take local information about Kumamoto into account and introduce practical ways to use programs such as digitalization and AI implementation subsidies and capital investment subsidies. Admission is free.
[Grand Prix announced] Winning works of Kochi Anime Creator Award 2026 unveiled
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The winning works of Kochi Anime Creator Award 2026 were announced at the Kochi Anikuri Festival on April 11, with Hana Takubo’s “Where No One Can See, I’m Flying Through the Sky” winning the Grand Prix. The event was presented by 高知信用金庫 and the Chiiki Mirai Foundation, and received 310 submissions from across Japan.
Now accepting orders for trading Botania Wavy Acrylic Keychains and other merchandise from the theatrical anime “The Rose of Versailles” at AMNIBUS, an online store for original anime and manga goods
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AMNIBUS, the online store operated by 株式会社アルマビアンカ, began accepting orders on April 8 for 7 items related to the theatrical anime “The Rose of Versailles,” scheduled for release on January 31, 2025. The products are named the “Botania Series” and include acrylic keychains (880 yen each), can badges (495 yen each) and a scarf (6,578 yen). The concept is to make character goods suitable for everyday use.
Now accepting orders for newly illustrated “In the rain ver.” trading acrylic cards and other merchandise from “Girls Band Cry” at AMNIBUS, an online store for original anime and manga goods
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルマビアンカ began accepting orders on April 7 for 13 newly illustrated “In the rain ver.” items from the anime “Girls Band Cry” through its online store AMNIBUS. The lineup includes acrylic cards, can badges and other character goods for everyday use.
Inbound-focused media outlet “Japan of Japan” surpasses 500,000 total social media followers, with multiple mega-hit videos exceeding 40 million views
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The total number of social media followers of “Japan of Japan,” an outlet for international visitors to Japan operated by 株式会社Hinotori, has surpassed 500,000. Sharing short videos about Japan’s hidden charms, primarily on YouTube and Facebook, the outlet has garnered more than 300 million views to date and earned support from Japan fans around the world.
[Featured in overseas media] “Hanauta Garden - Ito” was covered by Singapore broadcaster CNA and aired on television in 29 countries worldwide, as well as being made available on YouTube.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Hanauta Garden - Ito,” a tree-burial cemetery in Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture, was covered by Singapore broadcaster CNA. Its activities were aired on television in 29 countries worldwide and made available on YouTube. The cemetery is known for its beautiful natural setting, with flowers blooming throughout the seasons across its vast site of about 48,000 m² in a national park, which has more than 10,000 plots. It offers a new form of memorial service called “flower burial,” which does not use conventional gravestones and has drones guide visitors to the burial site.
[More than 400 applications; free to attend] How a solo founder can hire 5 AI employees to run a company | Practical know-how for using OpenClaw, presented by NEXT INNOVAITION representative Yuito Kuroyama
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yuito Kuroyama, representative director of NEXT INNOVAITION Co., Ltd., will speak at an online seminar hosted by AI Dreamers Production (ADP). The seminar will explain practical know-how for solo founders and small organizations to build an “AI organization” and automate operations using the AI tool OpenClaw. Applications have exceeded 400, and participation is free. Topics will include assigning AI agents, designing roles, managing information using GitHub, OpenClaw security, and differences from Claude Code.
Shinto Kogyo announces certification as an Aichi Women’s Empowerment Company
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shinto Kogyo Co., Ltd. received Aichi Women’s Empowerment Company certification under Aichi Prefecture’s certification program on April 1, 2026. The company aims to ensure that every employee can work with a sense of purpose, respects diversity, and regards women’s advancement as one of its key priorities. The certification is valid for 5 years, from April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2031. The company will continue working to promote the success of diverse talent, including women, and support diverse work styles for its employees, with the aim of achieving sustainable growth and enhancing corporate value.
A professional orchestra where young musicians “spread their wings after 3 years”: Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra releases 2026-27 season subscription tickets
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra (PAC) is a professional orchestra where young musicians spread their wings after 3 years, a rare model worldwide. It has announced the release of subscription tickets for its 2026-27 season. The new season marks its 21st year, featuring a wide-ranging repertoire from contemporary works receiving their Japanese premiere to Beethoven and Mahler. Artistic Director Yutaka Sado will conduct 3 concerts, with distinguished conductors and soloists from Japan and abroad, including Richard Stoltzman, appearing. Subscription tickets cover 9 concerts from September 2026 through August 2027, with advance reservations opening on April 17.
First in the wedding and funeral industry!* “Kurashinotomo Co., Ltd.” releases 60th-anniversary brand video filmed with FPV drones
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark the 60th anniversary of its founding on April 17, 2026, wedding and funeral mutual-aid association 株式會社くらしの友 has released a brand video. The video is said to be the first in the wedding and funeral industry to be filmed using FPV (first-person view) drones. It connects a range of spaces, including wedding venues, funeral venues, hotels, restaurants, and rehabilitation facilities, to convey the company’s brand message as “a company that accompanies people on life’s journey.” The video was made available for a limited time starting April 14, 2026, and officially released on April 17, 2026.
[InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8] Restaurant and bar Larboard to launch dog-friendly terrace service on Friday, April 24
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Larboard, the restaurant at InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8, will launch a dog-friendly service on April 24, exclusively for terrace seating. Guests will be able to dine with their dogs while enjoying views of the sea.
New “AI Utilization Assessment” reveals annual losses of 140 million yen. Based on the AX framework proposed by University of Tokyo Professor Yutaka Matsuo, it maps organizations’ blind spots.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社AnataAI has launched an “AI Utilization Assessment” to visualize companies’ AI adoption levels and associated losses. Based on the “AX 5 Steps” proposed by University of Tokyo Professor Yutaka Matsuo, it identifies the next priority actions.
Eliminating “information gaps” to protect lives from major disasters: Initiative launched to upgrade disaster-prevention infrastructure using the latest technology
The era of discussing community initiatives with data, rather than intuition: 62% of companies putting them into practice see business benefits, while “engagement,” “impact measurement” and “staffing” remain obstacles.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Community Marketing Promotion Association and Community Marketing Research Institute have released the “Community Marketing White Paper 2025-2026.” It found that 42% are considering or implementing initiatives, and 62% of companies putting them into practice see business benefits.
Kitakyushu flavors at a Kitakyushu ballpark: Tochikuken to sell bento at municipal stadium
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tochikuken Co., Ltd. will sell bento at the Pacific League official game “Fight! Kyushu Day in Kitakyushu,” to be held at Kitakyushu Municipal Stadium on April 16, 2025. Limited-edition bento featuring special wrappers themed around watching baseball will be available, and Konan, Tochikuken’s well-known station bento vendor, will also appear at the stadium. Since its founding in 1921, Tochikuken has supported Kitakyushu’s food culture, centered around Orio Station, and hopes people will enjoy its locally rooted flavors while watching sports. Items for sale include kashiwameshi, fried chicken bento, grilled salmon bento, onigiri with fried chicken, and tea, in limited quantities. Through this initiative, Tochikuken aims to share traditional flavors and memorable moments alongside the scenery of Kitakyushu.
Sustainable sake “MEGURU,” which reached 708% of its target on Makuake, now available through the Super Normal online store
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Super Normal Co., Ltd. has begun online sales of “MEGURU,” a sustainable sake that reached 708% of its target on Makuake, as well as socks made from recycled materials. The sake is the first in Japan to receive Salmon-Safe certification and promotes environmental conservation and resource circulation.
Next-generation medical image processing solutions for the AI era to be unveiled at ITEM2026 International Medical Imaging Exhibition
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Core Microsystems Co., Ltd. will exhibit at the ITEM2026 International Medical Imaging Exhibition, to be held at Pacifico Yokohama from April 17 to 19, 2026. Under the main theme “Next-Generation Medical Image Processing Solutions for the AI Era,” the company will showcase and present medical imaging AI solutions. Its booth will feature micro data center-based medical imaging AI solutions for installation inside and outside hospitals, as well as resource-composable flex server solutions using GPU/NVMe/IO and other technologies. Core Microsystems is a server solutions provider offering comprehensive solutions for AI/HPC/supercomputing, built on advanced storage technologies. The event is being held as part of JRC2026, hosted by the Japan Radiology Congress.
[The “10-hour wait” shop heads to Okinawa] Shibuya’s popular shaved-ice shop Sabou Okuno Shibuya arrives in Okinawa for the first time! Limited-edition shaved ice will be served in Naha and Ishigaki Island. 2 locations open simultaneously on April 1, 2026.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shibuya’s popular shaved-ice shop Sabou Okuno Shibuya is opening in Okinawa for the first time, with 2 locations opening simultaneously in Naha and Ishigaki Island on April 1, 2026. The shops will offer limited-edition menu items made with ingredients from Okinawa Prefecture.
JISDA begins offering Shiraha, a fully domestically produced fixed-wing drone costing 70,000 yen
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JISDA has begun offering the fully domestically produced fixed-wing drone Shiraha at a cost of 70,000 yen. The training aircraft puts into practice the importance of “ongoing training that assumes attrition,” a lesson learned from the war in Ukraine.
A new nationwide brand launches, bringing together 3 Yomiuri Group advertising agencies.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The former Yomiuri Agency Co., Ltd., the former Yomiuri Rengo Advertising Co., Ltd., and the former Yomiuri Advertising Seibu Co., Ltd., the Yomiuri Group’s general advertising agencies, established the new nationwide brand Yomiuri Ars and changed their company names effective April 1, 2026. Yomiuri Agency Co., Ltd. becomes Yomiuri Ars A Co., Ltd.; Yomiuri Rengo Advertising Co., Ltd. becomes Yomiuri Ars R Co., Ltd.; and Yomiuri Advertising Seibu Co., Ltd. becomes Yomiuri Ars S Co., Ltd. The new brand, Yomiuri Ars, has a network spanning 31 prefectures and 38 locations nationwide, bringing together the 3 companies’ capabilities, expertise and networks, built on a deep understanding of regional characteristics. The brand name derives from the initials of the former company names, “A, R, S,” and the Latin word “ARS,” meaning “skill” or “art,” and embodies a strong commitment to continued challenge and evolution. The logo represents the 3 companies coming together to provide value comprehensively in every direction.
6th Kitano Ace Staff-Selected Dressing Awards announced! Also released: a collection of “ideas for enjoying delicious vegetables” gathered from staff nationwide
Chitose Koyukai launches “Childcare for Every Child” program at 5 preschools in Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The social welfare corporation Chitose Koyukai began operating the government’s new “Childcare for Every Child” program at 5 preschools in Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward in April 2026. The program is available to local families with children regardless of employment status, and offers opportunities to join activities with enrolled children, receive parenting advice and connect with others. Chitose Koyukai has long worked to support local families raising children, and the introduction of the program will strengthen its role as a “home for the community.” The role of nursery schools and early childhood education centers is gaining importance as they respond to parents’ isolation amid the rise of nuclear families and weakening communities in urban areas, as well as increasingly diverse childcare support needs. Chairman Tetsushi Yamaguchi commented that raising children is something the community supports together, and that the program will contribute to children’s growth and parents’ peace of mind.
[Human Capital Survey: Precision Equipment and Factory Automation] Comparing salaries and overtime at 3 major companies using primary sources | FANUC: 11.63 million yen; Canon: 5,004 yen per hour
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fperi Co., Ltd. has published a comparison of salaries and overtime hours at 3 major companies in the precision equipment and factory automation industry—FANUC, Sysmex and Canon—on Career Reveal. The highest annual salary was 11.63 million yen at FANUC, while the highest hourly wage was approximately 5,004 yen at Canon.
[Industry first] Woomy Casting begins accepting and responding to recruitment requests on weekends and holidays. Seize the opportunity indicated by a 5% increase in applications on days off, identified through analysis of 160,000 data points over 1 year, and accelerate influencer recruitment. Recruitment also available during Golden Week!
[First in Japan’s coffee market] Launch of “Direct Quote™” feature, enabling users to request quotes directly from producers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TYPICA has opened its “Direct Quote” feature to the public between Japan and Brazil, enabling coffee producers and roasters to request quotes and negotiate directly. The feature enables more transparent transactions.
First in the esports industry! High-performance partnership agreement signed with GENKI Morita, a JeSU-certified professional esports player
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NeuralPort Co., Ltd. has signed a high-performance partnership agreement with professional esports player GENKI Morita and introduced “ZEN EYE Pro,” the esports industry’s first VR-based brain fatigue measurement system.
Takamatsu House has established the Mare Rich Institute to analyze and share insights on the value of rare land in central Tokyo, and has published its first installment, a conversation with Naoto Fukasawa.
Rediscovering the “deliciousness of chocolate” we had given up on—“Bouncy Chocolat” and “Melting Chocolat,” which overturn conventional wisdom about dysphagia food, win the Jury Chairperson’s Award [Industry first* / Care Food and Smile Care Food Contest]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Nissin Kako has won the Jury Chairperson’s Award for “Bouncy Chocolat” and “Melting Chocolat,” powdered chocolate products for people with swallowing difficulties. The products bring together “great taste” and “reduced preparation burden” in care food.
Akafuku to be sold for a limited time during Golden Week at Haneda Airport | Isuzu Chaya’s “Okage Dog Sable Tin” also makes its debut in limited quantities
[Putting locomotor syndrome measures into practice through PDCA] BODY PALETTE launches a package to address locomotor syndrome
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fractal Workout Inc. has launched a package to address locomotor syndrome among older workers through BODY PALETTE, its digital health management service.
[Event report] Breaking through the 30-person barrier! Musashino’s “Management Academy®” reveals a system reform approach that turns executives who wait for instructions into “self-starting collaborators.” Latest results-improvement case studies from field consultants revealed for the first time
[June 2026 online course: Personal Protective Equipment Use and Management Supervisor training] The schedule for convenient online training sessions has been announced.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
I’m Safe LLC has announced the schedule for its June 2026 online training course for Personal Protective Equipment Use and Management Supervisors. The qualification for this position, which became mandatory following a legal revision, can be obtained conveniently online.
A survey by BABY JOB Co., Ltd. found that the number of municipalities where public childcare facilities do not require parents to bring diapers has surged to approximately 3 times the previous level (25.5%) in 2 years. The change is driven by efforts to address childcare worker shortages and reduce the burden on parents.
[May 1 (Fri.), 19:00– / Shibuya] Make the most of a weekday during Golden Week | Casual business networking event to broaden your connections and perspectives (Community Trend)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KOBUSHI MARKETING合同会社 will hold a networking event for business professionals on May 1, 2026 (Fri.), at KOBUSHI BEER LOUNGE & BAR in Shibuya. The event will help attendees make the most of a weekday during Golden Week and build new connections.
Gion Tsujiri’s official online shop launches its “Mother’s Day Gift Feature 2026” on April 14 (Thu.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gion Tsujiri, a Japanese tea specialty shop in Gion, Kyoto, will launch its “Mother’s Day Gift Feature 2026” on its official online shop starting April 14. The shop will sell limited-edition premium gift sets and other items.
Legal automation service OLGA adopted by 株式会社バンダイ and 株式会社BANDAI SPIRITS
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
OLGA, a legal automation service provided by GVA TECH株式会社, has been adopted by 株式会社バンダイ and 株式会社BANDAI SPIRITS. The companies had been managing 80–100 contract reviews and legal consultations per month by email and phone, handling them manually. A sharp increase in work following major revisions to contract templates made management difficult. OLGA was adopted for its ability to integrate with email without adding any burden to business divisions and for its strong overview of entire cases. OLGA is a cloud service that automates legal operations from end to end.
Why has Keyence succeeded in developing global talent? | Must-see for HR and overseas business departments! Held April 28 (Tue.) at 10:30
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On April 28, 2026, Insight Academy will hold a free online seminar on developing global talent, featuring Takashi Fujita, a former head of Keyence’s overseas business division.
[KOSEN] “Command center for semiconductor talent development” gets fully underway; 200 industry, government and academic representatives gather for opening ceremony of Semiconductor Talent Development Center (S-PORT)
[From the ¥18,000 range for 1 night and 3 meals] “Aged Meat Dining Opening Commemorative Plan” now on sale at Kariko Resort Awaji Island, one of Kansai’s largest all-inclusive glamping resorts. Plus, a traditional fair will be held daily for a limited time!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kariko Resort Awaji Island, a glamping facility in Minami-Awaji, Hyogo Prefecture, has begun selling a value-packed all-inclusive plan with 1 night and 3 meals to mark the reopening of its Aged Meat Dining restaurant.
“Citrus Peel Extract” found to prevent melanin production and transfer
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KOSÉ has found that “citrus peel extract,” derived from mandarin orange peel, helps prevent dark spots by suppressing melanin production and transfer. The results were presented at the 146th Annual Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan.