377 received, 377 listed, 3 sources ・ Page 3 of 4
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 289 items from 2 sources; Taiwan, 88 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
合同会社 DESIGN STUDIO K has officially launched “Spurevo,” a hands-on product design improvement service for startups struggling to hire experienced designers. For a fixed monthly fee, it provides the function of an “in-house first designer” and supports UI/UX improvements based on business KPIs.
A survey by にっしん皮フ科・形成外科 found that about 60% of women in their 30s and 40s who are interested in beauty feel a gap between their ideal and actual appearance age. About half say they are seen as younger than their actual age, while more than 1 in 4 have felt disadvantaged by their appearance age. More than 80% were found to have taken no measures.
Companies mentioned：医療法人社団 日進会 にっしん皮フ科・形成外科、RCリサーチデータ
The “Amazones 24-hour women-only gym franchise,” operated by 株式会社Wellness Land, surveyed people considering joining a gym or fitness franchise. The survey found that a headquarters support system that makes it possible for even inexperienced operators to run a business with confidence is the most important consideration.
“ぼうばくんDX” is a browser app that lets manufacturers, logistics companies and construction sites manage designated quantities in hazardous-material storage facilities entirely by smartphone. The app records incoming and outgoing items using barcode scans or taps, provides real-time inventory visibility, and automatically sends alerts when quantities are insufficient or excessive. One adopting company cut its management workflow by a factor of 3 and reduced management costs by 50%. The app is available to purchasers or renters of the company’s hazardous-material storage facilities and will be exhibited at the “International Fire and Disaster Prevention Exhibition,” to be held in Nagoya on May 28 and 29, 2026.
The Japan Drone Show Association will hold a free online seminar on May 12, 2026. Using examples of large-scale drone shows in central urban areas, the seminar will explain the latest flight application procedures and regulations. It will support the safe and appropriate staging of drone shows.
Companies mentioned：一般社団法人 日本ドローンショー協会、バウンダリ行政書士法人、株式会社レッドクリフ
佐賀県産業振興機構さが県産品流通デザイン公社 began accepting applications on April 15, 2026, for 3 development support programs aimed at expanding sales channels for businesses in the prefecture: redesign support, e-commerce sales channel expansion support, and a course on improving social media outreach. The deadline is May 12.
Companies mentioned：公益財団法人佐賀県産業振興機構さが県産品流通デザイン公社、MOO:D MARK by ISETAN
アールイー株式会社 has signed an agreement with 船橋市, 全国油脂事業協同組合連合会 and エコクリエイティブ on collecting and recycling waste oil and fat resources. The initiative will reuse waste cooking oil and oily sludge from wastewater as biofuel, helping reduce waste and advance carbon neutrality.
Companies mentioned：船橋市、全国油脂事業協同組合連合会、株式会社エコクリエイティブ
りらくる, a professional massage service, has named Mitsuho Fukudome, a former AKB48 member and television personality, as its official ambassador. To mark the appointment, a limited-time campaign will offer new app members ¥1,000 off their first massage of 60 minutes or longer.
Companies mentioned：株式会社りらく、ESP総研
A.ランゲ＆ゾーネ unveiled its new “Saxonia Annual Calendar” mechanical watch at Watches and Wonders in Geneva. The watch features a newly developed automatic movement, a high-precision moon phase display and an annual calendar, and comes in 2 models: white gold and pink gold.
Companies mentioned：A.ランゲ＆ゾーネ
Outlet store “Dream market,” operated by 株式会社Trust, will open イオンモール新瑞橋店 in Aichi Prefecture on April 24, 2026, its 4th store, to help household budgets amid continued price increases. The store will offer everyday essentials at up to 99% off and contribute to reducing waste from unsold goods.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Trust、イオンモール新瑞橋店
株式会社ケイオー has begun OEM sales of “Original Acrylic Magnets,” which can be made in custom shapes. The company accepts small-lot orders for promotional items and fan merchandise.
株式会社パルマ and 三菱地所株式会社 opened “キーピット池上・久が原,” an indoor self-storage facility they jointly developed, on March 19, 2026. This is 三菱地所株式会社’s first project marking its full-scale entry into the self-storage sector, and aims to provide new lifestyle infrastructure to meet storage needs in urban areas.
Companies mentioned：三菱地所株式会社、株式会社パルマ、トランクシステム工業株式会社、SHUKU DESIGN OFFICE
株式会社Challenger announced that its representative, Sho Toriumi, will exhibit at “Asset Management EXPO Summer,” to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from May 15 to 17, 2026, and will hold special seminars on how to use the new NISA and NISA strategies for the second half of 2026. The company aims to strengthen financial education for individual investors.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Challenger、三井住友海上火災保険株式会社、東京証券取引所・日本取引所グループ
Oris has unveiled a new edition of its classic “Star Edition,” first introduced in 1966. The model faithfully recreates vintage design details, including a 35mm barrel-shaped case and silver dial, while featuring the modern automatic Oris Calibre 733 movement. Priced at ¥363,000, including tax, it will go on sale in May 2026 at the Oris Ginza Boutique and authorized retailers. The reissue symbolizes a historic turning point for Oris, which regained its independence following the repeal of Switzerland’s watch statute in 1965.
Original株式会社PANDORAとサイバーステップ株式会社が、次世代グローバルIP創出プロジェクトの実行委員会を設立しました。VTuberプロデュースとサンドボックスゲーム「TERAVIT」を連携させ、コンテンツ開発から収益化までを統合した「エンターテインメントコマース」モデルを推進します。
Companies mentioned：株式会社PANDORA、サイバーステップホールディングス株式会社、サイバーステップ株式会社
“100 Spoons,” a family restaurant operated by Yuuki Food Co., Ltd. and Soup Stock Tokyo Co., Ltd., will hold the collaborative event “Mikaku’s Adventure: Run, Eat and Travel the World” at “100 Spoons Azamino Gardens” on May 23 (Saturday) and 24 (Sunday), 2026. The event will offer a lunch course that lets guests experience food cultures from around the world, using 22 varieties selected from approximately 700 seasonings. Admission is ¥3,000 (tax included) for adults and free for elementary school students and younger. Reservations will be allocated by lottery, with applications closing at 23:59 on April 28 (Tuesday).
Swiss watch brand Tudor (TUDOR) has unveiled its 2026 collection. Several new models and colors, including the “Tudor Royal” and “Black Bay Ceramic,” will be released in succession.
Companies mentioned：スイス連邦計量・認定局（METAS）
The 2nd Seminar on Foreign Care Workers was held at Osaka University of Economics, focusing on the recruitment and retention of foreign care workers. Officials from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and local governments shared policy trends and challenges.
Companies mentioned：公益社団法人全国老人福祉施設協議会、厚生労働省、鳥取県、社会福祉法人尚仁福祉会、京都府立大学、株式会社ライフケア
SCC and Professor Kitazawa of 青山学院大学 announced the results of a joint study on “Manaripi,” a review-support service for elementary school students using conversational generative AI. A field trial confirmed improvements in learning motivation and deviation scores.
Companies mentioned：青山学院大学
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LIG Inc. will host a webinar titled “Where Designers Stand Today and What Lies Ahead in the Age of AI,” featuring web creator Sekiyu Ou, starting at 20:00 on April 23, 2026. In a panel discussion, participants will discuss the skills designers should develop going forward and how to work with AI as it enables design to be produced at scale. Participation is free, and the event will be held via Zoom webinar for people involved in web production.
AlgaleX Inc. will offer a special course featuring “Uma-mo,” a microalgae with a rich umami flavor, for a limited time at “BISTRO CHURA” in Shinjuku starting April 14.
Companies mentioned：BISTRO CHURA
ORENDA WORLD Inc. exhibited at the Amakusa Game, Anime and CG Company Job Fair, held at Kumamoto-jo Hall on March 8, 2026. At the fair, creators from the Amakusa Studio reviewed portfolios, and a seminar was held on the use of AI at regional offices. In a visitor survey, 66.7% of respondents expressed interest in moving to Amakusa City, and the event received an average satisfaction score of 3.8 out of 4. The company launched full-scale operations at its Amakusa Studio in April 2023 and works as a strategic partner in Amakusa City’s “Digital Art Island Creation Project.” It aims to continue supporting education, including by dispatching instructors to Amakusa Technical High School and Shinkawa High School, and to help Amakusa grow as a creative hub.
OriginalタチバナE酒販は、1口で必ずウイスキーが2本届く「超高確率みくじ 第2弾」を150口限定で販売開始した。目玉は山崎18年と12年のセットである。
Companies mentioned：Amazon、楽天市場、Yahoo!ショッピング
Cloudflare has announced new features for “Agent Cloud,” which supports the building, deployment and scaling of AI agents. The offering includes integration with OpenAI and provides an affordable, scalable platform for next-generation AI development.
Companies mentioned：Cloudflare、OpenAI
OriginalWED株式会社と株式会社エブリー（デリッシュキッチン）が、食品・飲料メーカーのマーケティング担当者向けに広告効果の可視化と購買促進に関する共催ウェビナーを2026年4月21日に開催する。
Companies mentioned：WED株式会社、株式会社エブリー
GARDEN HOUSE SHINJUKU has launched its "Drinkable Chicken" BEER GARDEN 2026, running from April 8 to June 30, 2026. The plan features all-you-can-eat fried chicken with three dip options, unlimited Bagna cauda with Miura vegetables, and a comprehensive free-flow drink menu, offering a seasonal outdoor dining experience.
Companies mentioned：株式会社GREENING
Originalワールドリカーインポーターズは2026年4月15日、新宿歌舞伎町にミュンヘンの名門ビアホールを再現した「ホフブロイ トウキョウ 新宿店」をオープンする。
Companies mentioned：ワールドリカーインポーターズ株式会社、ホフブロイ
From May 1 to 31, 2026, モクシー・ホテル will host “LATIN STREET BITES: A Culinary Journey Through Latin America” at 4 locations in Japan. The event will serve sandwiches and drinks inspired by soul food from 6 Latin American countries, and will also feature a stamp rally and cultural events.
Companies mentioned：マリオット・インターナショナル、モクシー・ホテル
Nihon Information and MIP Marketing have launched a collaboration to provide research and marketing support as an integrated service. Starting with research to identify consumer needs, the collaboration will translate the resulting insights into “product concepts that sell” and provide support from planning through evaluations before and after launch. The initiative aims to address the growing challenges of creating hit products amid a mature consumer goods market and intensifying competition.
Bayer Yakuhin’s “Elevit®” hosted an online seminar on preconception care for companies, featuring Dr. Takahiko Ichiyama, an obstetrician-gynecologist. The seminar aims to promote health management and awareness of the knowledge needed in preparation for a future pregnancy.
Companies mentioned：医療法人社団 torch clinic、国立研究開発法人国立成育医療研究センター
Keio Atman Co., Ltd. will hold a “Cosmetics Fair” at all Keio Atman and Atman Atman stores from April 15 to 22, 2026. During the fair, purchases of eligible cosmetics and health products will earn 5 times the usual Keio Points. Popular recovery wear is also eligible for 5× points.
Food Forest Inc. will open a new restaurant, “Meat and Japanese Yam Tororoya,” at Shimizu Fish Market “Kagashi-no-Ichi” on April 19, 2026. At a market known for its focus on fish, the restaurant will offer set meals that pair carefully selected meat with Japanese yam.
Companies mentioned：まん福ホールディングスグループ
In April 2026, “Tenjin X,” an ICT learning material developed by Tao Co., Ltd., was certified as an eligible tool under the government’s “Digitalization and AI Adoption Subsidy 2026.” Small and medium-sized enterprises and small-scale businesses that adopt “Tenjin X” can receive a subsidy covering 1/2 of implementation costs in principle, or up to 2/3 if they meet conditions such as raising wages. Tao Co., Ltd. will also assist with subsidy applications as an IT implementation support provider. “Tenjin X” is a learning material for educational and welfare facilities, including cram schools and after-school day services. It provides an environment where children can study independently, even with staff who have limited teaching experience, and helps improve the efficiency of instructional work.
On April 14, 2026, the Japan Association of New Economy issued a statement by its representative director on the bill to amend the Act on the Protection of Personal Information, which was approved by the Cabinet on April 7. The association emphasized the importance of balancing the promotion of data use with protection, and expressed concern that introducing an administrative surcharge system could discourage responsible businesses. While noting that the bill contains areas for improvement, it said that many provisions could still unduly stifle economic activity. It expressed particular concern about unclear matters with significant practical implications, such as the detailed requirements for exceptions to individual consent in statistical preparation and the scope of conduct subject to surcharges.
Open Tone Co., Ltd., in collaboration with JTB, added an “AI Assistant” feature to its Accommodation Data Analysis System for DMOs and local governments on April 14, 2026. The feature enables data analysis through chat.
Companies mentioned：株式会社JTB
GLOBIS has launched an ultra-beginner video course on AI for mid-career and senior learners on GLOBIS Manabihodai. With 30 types of prompt templates, the course lets learners get started right away by copying and pasting.
Companies mentioned：総務省
The Sapporo International Art Festival (SIAF) announced the new-year program for SIAF School, 5 new artist groups participating in SIAF2027, and its initiative partners.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ワコム、新千歳空港国際アニメーション映画祭
The Yokohama History Museum announced its event schedule for the first half of fiscal 2026. The History Future Festival will be held on May 23 and 24, with free admission to the museum. A special event for Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Day will take place on June 2, followed by “Let’s Make a Dokkie!” on June 7. Other planned events include a kamishibai storytelling debut course, a night museum for parents and children, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Original公益財団法人横浜市ふるさと歴史財団が管理運営する横浜市歴史博物館は、開館以来収集してきた横浜市域の歴史資料をデジタルアーカイブで公開開始した。公開日は令和8年3月31日（火）で、URLはhttps://archive.ycmh.jp/。登録済資料は32,522件、うち画像掲載済は1,212件。非商業利用に限り利用可能。
The immersive exhibition “TOKYOROOMS Exhibition” opens at Toranomon Hills on April 18, 2026. 40 creators express diverse ways of life through the theme of a “six-tatami-mat room,” offering visitors an experience that invites them to “feel.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社ソーシャルインテリア、TOKYO NODE、公益社団法人インテリア産業協会、株式会社ニッポン放送、ルームクリップ株式会社、日鉄興和不動産株式会社
Natsume Co., Ltd. will release the Chinese vocabulary book “Audio Download Edition: Everyday Essential Chinese Vocabulary” on April 16, 2026. The book contains approximately 3,000 Chinese words useful for travel, daily life and business, presented in Japanese, Chinese characters, katakana and pinyin. It also features numerous illustrations and columns on local information, along with downloadable audio and basic explanations of pronunciation and grammar. The author is Wang Tingting, a conference interpreter.
CyberStep and PANDORA have established an executive committee to create next-generation global IP by linking VTubers with the game platform “TERAVIT.” The concept brings content and purchasing experiences together.
Companies mentioned：株式会社PANDORA
Original東京シティ競馬（TCK）は、3歳ダート三冠競走の初戦「羽田盃（JpnⅠ）」のBSイレブンでの生中継を決定しました。2026年4月29日（祝・水）の放送には、俳優の中山優馬さんがゲスト出演します。MCは福原直英さん、解説は細江純子さんと古谷剛彦さんが務めます。また、東京ダービー、帝王賞、ジャパンダートクラシックのJpnⅠ競走もBSイレブンで生中継されます。
Anomaly Inc. will hold the “Mynavi HIGH SCHOOL DANCE COMPETITION 2026 FINAL” at Ryogoku Kokugikan on April 18, 2026. High schools that won gold at regional qualifiers in Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai and Kyushu will perform. The dance contest is open to high school students nationwide and began in 2015; this will be its 11th edition. The number of qualifying award slots has increased by 3, and a final challenge based on the points ranking will also be held.
Element Inc. has announced its “April 2026 Edition: Top 3 Recommended Lawyer Insurance Plans” on its lawyer insurance comparison site, Lawyer Insurance STATION. The rankings are based on applications received from March 1 through March 31, 2026. First place went to “Mikata Lawyer Insurance” from Mikata Small Amount and Short Term Insurance; second place to “Lawyer Common+” from Yell Small Amount and Short Term Insurance; and third place to “Lawyer Insurance to Protect Men and Women” from Japan Small Amount and Short Term Insurance. Element operates a digital insurance general agency business that leverages IT.
Ginza’s modern Indian restaurant SPICE LAB TOKYO and Kanda’s biryani specialty restaurant ビリヤニ大澤 will hold a collaborative dinner and lunch for 3 days only during Golden Week 2026.
Companies mentioned：SPICE LAB TOKYO、ビリヤニ大澤
Canly Inc. has released a free report for the automotive industry outlining the keys to store operations identified through review analysis. It explains how businesses can move away from price competition and win customers through service and information sharing.
Companies mentioned：Google、Yahoo!、Apple
Tempura Arakawa at ロイヤルパインズホテル浦和 will change its weekend and holiday dinner opening time to 17:30 from May 2, 2026, and introduce a private-use plan available on weekdays only.
Companies mentioned：ソラーレ ホテルズ アンド リゾーツ株式会社、ロイヤルパインズホテル浦和
On April 8, 2026, Polimill Inc. held an in-person introductory training session on the municipal generative AI platform QommonsAI for staff of Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture. A total of 120 people attended the morning and afternoon sessions, with particular interest in the prompt template feature. QommonsAI is equipped with 12 carefully selected models from 4 major companies, including OpenAI, Anthropic and Google, and is used by more than 750 municipalities and approximately 300,000 people nationwide. Polimill is rolling out free in-person training programs nationwide for municipalities that have adopted the service.
Ruinart, the Champagne house represented by MHD Moët Hennessy Diageo, will open the Ruinart Bar on weekends and holidays during KYOTOGRAPHIE Kyoto International Photography Festival 2026, which runs from April 18 to May 17, 2026. The bar will serve Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Ruinart Rosé by the glass or bottle, offering visitors a chance to experience the relationship between art and wine. Ruinart has participated in the photography festival since 2016 and established the Ruinart Japan Award in 2021 to support emerging artists.
Good Smile Company has launched its new smartphone game Nekopara Sekai Connect simultaneously in 30 countries worldwide. The company is running a campaign offering up to 220 free gacha pulls, as well as limited-time events.
Companies mentioned：NEKO WORKs、Apple、Google、Steam
Shimoda Floating Aquarium will hold a special Children's Day exhibit from April 18 to May 17, 2026. The exhibit will focus on 42 fish of 17 species that “graduated” from the Young Fish Aquarium on March 14, 2026, and are now “moving on” to Shimoda Floating Aquarium. Exhibited species include blue damselfish and rabbitfish, and the fish will be on view in a special exhibition tank at the entrance to Marine Stadium. Opened in March 1967, Shimoda Floating Aquarium is an interactive aquarium operated by Shimoda Aqua Service Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujita Kanko.
Holin Love Books, operated by TORICO Inc., is holding a campaign to celebrate the release of the latest comic by Professor 会川フゥ, 愛しいのは、君のまま. The prize is a tall poster with an original handwritten signature. Eligible products are 【有償特典付き】愛しいのは、君のまま and 愛しいのは、君のまま, both released on May 1, 2026. Orders qualify if they are shipped by June 1, 2026.
freee K.K. has published a case study on how 株式会社おのざき, a fresh fish retailer and wholesaler founded in 1923, uses freee products. Seeking to break a 16-year run of losses, the company introduced freee HR and Labor and freee Accounting. Payroll processing time was cut from 1 day to 30 minutes, and monthly accounts can now be provisionally finalized by the 15th of the following month. The back-office team was reduced from 6 employees to 2–3, freeing up resources for business improvements. President Yuichi Onozaki describes freee products as “a second left brain” and is working to eliminate reliance on individual employees and develop a multiskilled workforce.
Kita-Osaka Kyuko Railway will begin commemorative events on April 22, 2026, marking 40 years of service for the 8000-series Polestar. Events will include poster displays, the placement of a commemorative headmark and a paid photography session.
Companies mentioned：Osaka Metro（当時：大阪市営地下鉄）
株式会社NEXER and secondhand dealer OTORAKU conducted a joint survey of audio and music equipment owners on sustainable consumption. The survey found that about 97% agreed with selling or reusing equipment, while only about 20% had actually done so.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、OTORAKU
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel will launch “A Taste of Omi: An Early-Summer Trip around Lake Biwa,” featuring Omi beef as the main attraction, at 4 of its restaurants starting April 27. Special menus combining local ingredients and wine will be served.
Companies mentioned：西武プリンスホテルズワールドワイド（推測）
SHIN-JIGEN President and CEO Tamao Okamoto and founder Hiromichi Fujimoto will speak at the “Manufacturing Industry Growth Strategy Salon for the AI Era,” to be held in Kyoto on April 17, 2026. They will share use cases for on-site learning edge AI and a backcasting innovation process, and discuss the industrial transformation brought about by AI and robotics.
Companies mentioned：株式会社SHIN-JIGEN、株式会社Thinker、ATOUN、一般社団法人京都産業都市創成研究所、地方独立行政法人京都市産業技術研究所、公益財団法人京都産業21、公益財団法人京都高度技術研究所、京都府、京都市
Dog Diner Co., Ltd. has published a column explaining changes in the modern environment and the importance of oral care from a historical perspective. Summer days in modern Tokyo with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees are not unusual, and the environment differs greatly from that of the Edo period about 500 years ago. According to research data, modern people transported back to the Edo period are estimated to survive for 3–5 years, with sepsis caused by periodontal disease among the top 3 causes of death. About 80% of dogs aged 3 or older have periodontal disease, and one survey found that dogs with advanced periodontal disease face a death risk about 1.4–1.6 times higher. In response, Dog Diner Co., Ltd. advocates a “food-based toothbrushing revolution,” supporting pets’ oral care with a completely additive-free formula that is simply sprinkled over their food.
Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) will mark its 50th anniversary in 2026 with commemorative initiatives under the slogan “Leading Positive Change.” The school announced a wide range of activities, including events celebrating half a century of education and the launch of an online campus, as it continues to develop global leaders through International Baccalaureate education.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Aoba-BBT、株式会社アオバインターナショナルエデュケイショナルシステムズ
Attaway Japan Co., Ltd. will exhibit as a sponsoring partner at Workday Elevate Tokyo 2026, to be held on May 28, 2026. The company will share insights on topics including change management to support adoption and achieve results after Workday implementation.
Companies mentioned：Workday社
MAT Co., Ltd. has completed resurfacing work at a park in Kuki, Saitama Prefecture, using its flagship product, Mat Spray. The work improved the park’s appearance and safety in a short time and at low cost.
Companies mentioned：株式会社岡崎建装
Original株式会社foxcaleと弁護士ドットコム株式会社は、公正取引委員会による独占禁止法調査への対応策を解説する無料オンラインセミナーを2026年5月14日に共催します。本セミナーでは、法的実務とデジタルフォレンジック調査の両面から、独禁法違反の実態と初動対応、平時のコンプライアンス体制構築について解説します。岩田合同法律事務所の青木晋治弁護士とfoxcaleの小池赳司CEOが登壇し、事例を交えて実践的なリスク対策を紹介します。定員は100名で、事前登録制です。
Hoshi no Manabi Cafe, operated by GRAS Group, conducted a survey on generative AI use. The survey found that about 40% of section manager and department head-level employees enter confidential information into “shadow AI”—AI used without the company’s knowledge—about 2 times the rate among general employees.
Ahead of Mother’s Day on May 10 and Father’s Day on June 21, Kakogawa City in Hyogo Prefecture is running its “Sock It Up Campaign” to promote the tradition of giving “Kakogawa socks,” a local industry product. The initiative originated from an idea by students at Kakogawa Higashi High School. Sock manufacturing in Kakogawa began in Meiji 19 (1886), and has a tradition spanning more than 130 years. The city supports the local industry through promotions at JR Kakogawa Station, sponsored races with the Hyogo Prefecture Horse Racing Association, the annual “Sock Festival” in November, and participation in events outside the city.
A sumo show by entertainment brand HIRAKUZA was a huge success at an arts festival in Australia, winning a weekly award. It attracted more than 10,000 people and helped promote Japanese culture overseas.
Companies mentioned：株式会社阪神コンテンツリンク
Thinker executives, developers of next-generation robot hands, will speak at the “Manufacturing Industry Growth Strategy Salon for the AI Era” in Kyoto on April 17. They will discuss examples of robot use and backcasting-based management strategies.
Companies mentioned：一般社団法人京都産業都市創成研究所、地方独立行政法人京都市産業技術研究所、公益財団法人京都産業21、公益財団法人京都高度技術研究所、京都府、京都市
Voice actor agency プロダクション・エース is holding its 2026 spring voice actor auditions. Grand prize winners will receive debut support, and excellence award winners will receive benefits. Applications are free and open to beginners. Voice actor Yuko Sasaki will also join as a guest judge.
Companies mentioned：プロダクション・エース、KADOKAWA、AMGグループ
Hero Produce Co., Ltd. is expanding its in-person presentation-style “Recruitment Auction” to address career mismatches among former Self-Defense Forces personnel. The initiative aims to improve the current situation, in which former service members are confined to a limited range of jobs by conventional resume filters, and match them with employers at their appropriate market value. The effort is being carried out in collaboration with Self-Defense Forces influencers including Ranger Tsuruta and Yuki Furukawa, with the goal of increasing the market value of service members. Collaborative videos have already attracted a strong response, and schedules for upcoming events have been set.
Ueni Trading Co., Ltd. will release 4 new FURLA watches on April 17, 2026. The watches feature reversible straps that change color instantly by flipping them over, along with refined designs and high-quality Italian leather.
Companies mentioned：FURLA、WORLD WIDE WATCH
Technoa Inc. published the 4th edition of its booklet “Management That Brings Happiness to Companies and People We’ve Connected With” on March 23, 2026. It outlines workplace and organizational initiatives based on the company philosophy, “Bring happiness to the companies and people we’ve connected with.” The booklet features 89 specific activities, including birthday meals hosted by executives for employees, officially recognized club activities, and full coverage of fees for attending external seminars. Since the first edition was published in 2023, more than 6,000 copies have been issued, and the content has grown from 69 items in the first edition to 89.
The online learning platform “Cafetalk,” operated by 株式会社スモールブリッジ, will hold its “Cafetalk Day” campaign on April 19, 2026. Participants can earn points back equal to 30% of the cost of up to 3 online lessons, capped at 4,000 points.
Companies mentioned：株式会社スモールブリッジ、Zoom、Google Meet
Newsweek Japan's April 21st issue simulates a Taiwan contingency in five phases, analyzing how the US-Iran war has fundamentally altered geopolitical assumptions and potential escalation scenarios between the US and China.
Companies mentioned：Newsweek Japan、US Military、Chinese Military、Netanyahu Government
Toshi Partners invited former Japan national soccer team player Keita Suzuki to speak at its new employee training session on “goal setting” and “taking on challenges.” New employees learned the importance of aligning their career goals with the company philosophy and continuing to take action.
Companies mentioned：株式会社トーシンパートナーズ、AuB株式会社
株式会社ガーディアン has launched “SCSC Consultant,” a subscription service that addresses online visibility and communications design challenges for small and midsize consulting firms. In response to three major headwinds facing the consulting industry—frozen referral channels, commoditization of upstream work, and longer purchasing processes—the company offers a solution to maximize the distinctive asymmetric advantages of smaller consulting firms online.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ガーディアン
House Foods’ retort curry “Curry de Nikuru” <Beef> and <Pork> surpassed 1 million units in cumulative sales as of March 2026, about 1 year after its launch in February 2025. The product contains more meat than any other retort curry in House Foods’ history and uses the new “Meat Paradise” process. Its main target is Generation MZ (ages 15–44), who seek generous portions of tasty meat, and it was developed primarily by employees in their 20s. The suggested retail price is 438 yen before tax, and it is sold nationwide.
近畿大学工学部 will digitize certificates for a Ministry of Education-certified AI education program. It has adopted “CloudCerts,” which uses blockchain technology provided by CyberLinks, to prevent tampering and eliminate paper.
Companies mentioned：近畿大学工学部、株式会社サイバーリンクス
堀田湯, operated by 株式会社ピクセル, is teaming up with golf tournament 前澤杯 to hold a “POP UP Sento” from April 13, 2026, transforming a golf course bathhouse into a traditional Japanese public bath. The event will feature amenities from uka and original merchandise.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ピクセル、堀田湯、uka、前澤杯
From April 9 to May 30, 2026, a crowdfunding project for wooden-barrel pens made from building materials that survived the Noto Peninsula Earthquake is running on Makuake. The project was planned by Morimori Workshop in Hakui, Ishikawa Prefecture, and reached its funding goal within 32 hours of launch. The pens combine reclaimed wood supplied by Noto Fukko Lab with the wipe-on lacquer technique of Wajima lacquerware artisans.
OriginalNHKは、改正放送法に基づき2025年10月にインターネットサービス「NHK ONE」を開始した。同サービスは同時・見逃し配信などを提供し、2026年3月末時点で362万件のアカウント数を達成。2026年度はUI・UX改善と「NHK オンデマンド」との連携強化を推進する。「NHK オンデマンド」は放送から1週間経過した番組を配信する有料サービスで、2025年度末時点で会員登録者数379万人、配信番組数約2万2000本。両サービスは制度上の区分を維持しつつ、連続した利用体験を提供できるよう導線を段階的に改善する。
Flannel Inc.’s brand “366” will launch its “Give the Gift of Your Birth Date” campaign at the F.room online store on April 21, 2026. The campaign suggests giving a birthday fragrance representing the day someone became a mother for Mother’s Day. From April 21 to 27, customers who purchase 2 or more eligible items will receive 10% off and an original drawstring bag; shipping will be free from April 28 to May 6. “366” offers 366 fragrances with different scents, each accompanied by a message card matching the date.
Grand Hyatt Fukuoka will collaborate with tea and herb producer 中村園, based in Yame, Fukuoka Prefecture, to begin offering limited-time afternoon tea and a buffet featuring Yame tea and herbs on May 1, 2026.
Companies mentioned：グランド ハイアット 福岡、中村園
Gap will launch its second collaboration collection with designer Sean Wotherspoon on April 17, 2026. The collection features 24 items incorporating Japanese indigo dyeing and patchwork.
Companies mentioned：Gap、ZOZOTOWN、渋谷PARCO
Zett Co.’s JFIT brand launched the lightweight “JF-5200” fitness shoe for aerobics and studio workouts in mid-April 2026. The shoe is about 40g lighter than the previous “JF-Neo” model, weighing about 282g per shoe (24cm). It features a seamless upper and shock-absorbing insoles, and is priced at ¥15,000 before tax (¥16,500 including tax).
Original環境省オフィシャルパートナーのコクーンラボと歌舞伎役者・中村橋吾氏が、熊本地震から10年を前に、熊本県の加藤神社や阿蘇くじゅう国立公園で祈りと再生をテーマにした創作歌舞伎を奉納しました。
Companies mentioned：環境省、JAPAN GOLD LABEL、成駒屋
Originalブレーンセンターと千葉大学が大学生と企業を対象に実施した「サステナビリティとキャリア」に関する調査結果を発表。学生の約9割がサステナビリティに関心を持つ一方で、企業や社会との実践的な接点不足が課題として浮き彫りになりました。
Companies mentioned：千葉大学
滅火器樂團 announced an additional show on July 19 after its July 18 concert at Taipei Arena sold out. 麋先生樂團 also sold out its concert in Kaohsiung and will expand the event into a carnival. In Kaohsiung, a light rail service dedicated to 麋先生樂團, the “麋途號,” is also operating. Both bands thanked fans and expressed enthusiasm for their upcoming activities.
新北捷運公司 will release a commemorative-design “1-day pass” for the Danhai light rail on April 16 to mark the opening of 淡江大橋.
Taiwan’s total tax revenue in March was 2989億元, up 28.6% year on year. Securities transaction tax surged 1.4 times, reflecting brisk stock market trading, and has now posted positive growth for 8 consecutive months.
Companies mentioned：財政部
Online claims that the drug fentanyl has appeared in Taiwan, along with footage of a man described as zombie-like, have spread. Police said an initial investigation found nothing unusual but that they would continue monitoring the situation. The prevalence of the drug domestically is low.
Companies mentioned：美國在台協會 (AIT)
A woman accused of giving rat poison to an Australian exchange student has been indicted. The Taipei District Court ruled that the period during which she is barred from leaving the country or traveling overseas be extended by 8 months.
Original台湾のベテラン芸能人、澎恰恰（ポン・チャチャ）は、過去に野球映画を監督したことで1億元以上の負債を抱えました。彼は新番組「坐吧！聊聊」に出演し、自身の債務状況と監督への情熱について語りました。澎恰恰は、かつて監督業に足を踏み入れた際の自信が裏目に出たと語り、お金を軽視したことが悪循環に陥った原因だと述べています。しかし、彼は今も監督の夢を諦めておらず、機会があれば再び監督をしたいと語っています。番組「坐吧！聊聊」は、4月6日から毎週月曜と火曜の夜10時に三立都會台で放送されます。
宏泰人壽 was searched by prosecutors and investigators, who also questioned senior executives, over alleged violations of the Securities and Exchange Act involving non-arm’s-length transactions in the auction of land in Tamsui in 108. The case stems from a report filed by 金管會, with the investigation focusing on whether the land auction process complied with regulations.
Companies mentioned：宏泰人壽、金管會
Taiwanese fast-food chain 麥味登 has surpassed 1000 stores nationwide. It now aims to reach 2000 stores by targeting emerging commercial districts and business opportunities related to 台積電. No price increases are planned at this time.
Companies mentioned：揚秦國際企業、台積電
Vietnam moves to secure power supplies amid a heat wave; Laos promotes electric vehicles; Singapore’s first-quarter economic growth falls short of expectations; foreign investor confidence in the Philippines declines; Malaysia’s tourism industry is affected by oil prices; Thailand launches price-cutting measures; Cambodia expands its ports; Indonesia posts investment growth in the first quarter.
Companies mentioned：越南工商部、寮國電力公司、Kearney、BIMB研究公司
Auto parts maker 東陽 reported its 3rd-highest first-quarter profit on record, while TPMS maker 橙的電子 is aggressively expanding in Europe’s aftermarket, aiming to capture more than half of the market.
Companies mentioned：東陽、橙的電子
鴻海 announced the development of EV batteries in Kaohsiung and plans to build a passenger car production base at the Taipei International Automobile and Motorcycle Parts and Accessories Show. It also plans to expand parts offerings to 2- and 3-wheel EVs, with Southeast Asian markets in mind.
Companies mentioned：富智康 (FIH)
The Taiwan dollar appreciated 9.5 cents against the U.S. dollar today, closing at 31.69. Total trading volume was US$1.442 billion.
Taichung City’s Tourism and Travel Bureau partnered with Korea’s 真航空 and 5 major travel agencies to invite Korean industry representatives to scout locations in Taichung. The initiative aims to expand the Korean tourism market and boost central Taiwan’s international tourism competitiveness. The itinerary includes several major attractions, such as Alishan and Sun Moon Lake.
Companies mentioned：真航空、Hana Tour、Mode Tour、Lotte Tour、Kyowon Tour、Very Good Tour