884 received, 879 listed, 3 sources ・ Page 7 of 9
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 844 items from 2 sources; Taiwan, 35 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
松屋 will launch a new menu item, Taco Rice, at locations nationwide on May 5, 2026, just in time for summer. The dish features a refreshing salsa sauce and a taco rice sauce packed with the savory flavor of ground meat, and comes in 3 styles, including options topped with sausage and egg or a hamburger steak.
Companies mentioned：株式会社松屋フーズ、松屋
Glasses brand Zoff will begin accepting web reservations on April 30, 2026, for “Zoff｜進撃の巨人,” its first eyewear collection collaboration with TVアニメ『進撃の巨人』. The lineup includes 4 types of frames inspired by Eren, Jean, Levi and Hange, along with accessories such as a stand-style glasses case and a glasses cloth, targeting fans of the series.
Companies mentioned：株式会社インターメスティック、Zoff、TVアニメ『進撃の巨人』
PYKES PEAK, a brand of Fun Standard株式会社, has launched a feature page for “Chibikko Rider,” a kids’ balance bike that has sold more than 3,300 units in 1 year and 3 months since its launch. It has won the international iF DESIGN AWARD 2025 and has also obtained the Children’s PSC Mark.
Companies mentioned：Fun Standard株式会社、株式会社RKB毎日ホールディングスグループ
“Toraneко Bonbon’s Kitchen Calendar,” an illustrated essay collection by food writer and popular illustrator Nachio Nakanishi, will be published on May 27. An exhibition of original artwork will be held in Kichijoji from May 22 to mark the publication. Original merchandise featuring cats from the book will also be sold at the venue in limited quantities.
The radio program “Hiroshi Fujioka, Let’s Talk as a Family!,” presented by Hoken Clinic, operated by 株式会社アイリックコーポレーション, is entering its second year on air and will begin broadcasting in the Kansai region in addition to Kanto. The program will also be revamped with new segments.
Companies mentioned：株式会社アイリックコーポレーション、ニッポン放送、ABCラジオ
BWA, the フィガロジャポン community, is holding “BWA Pitch Contest 2026,” a business contest for adult women. Applications are being accepted in 3 categories, with a deadline of May 22, 2026.
Companies mentioned：フィガロジャポン、株式会社CEメディアハウス
Professional basketball team シーホース三河 will hold the 6th Tats Academy Awards during halftime of its final regular-season game. Fans will vote to choose the season’s best “Tatsuwon the Stage” performance, and submissions for award titles are also being accepted.
Companies mentioned：シーホース三河
A new-format cafe from ベイクルーズ, “JOURNAL STANDARD CAFE,” will open in mid-July on the 3F of Sunshine City’s Alpa specialty shopping center. The spacious venue, covering approximately 94 tsubo, will serve deli items, brunch and afternoon tea. “GODIVA” and “珈琲所 コメダ珈琲店” also opened in the B1 area in April, offering visitors a comfortable experience with a variety of cafe options.
Companies mentioned：ベイクルーズ、GODIVA、珈琲所 コメダ珈琲店、JOURNAL STANDARD、J.S. PANCAKE CAFE、gelato pique cafe、スターバックス ティー＆カフェ
株式会社アスク has announced the “Pop 2 Vision” series of pillarless-design mid-tower PC cases from Fractal Design. The new product features an attractive interior design, excellent cooling and expandability, and support for the latest gaming hardware.
Companies mentioned：Fractal Design、株式会社アスク
koe donuts kyoto will launch its new product “new matcha donuts colletion” for a limited time starting May 11, 2026. The lineup features 3 varieties—acai matcha, matcha white chocolate and matcha lamington—combining matcha with natural ingredients for unique flavors.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ストライプインターナショナル、koe donuts kyoto
博報堂BIZ GARAGE will host a free webinar on turning decarbonization efforts into business results. Experts from the 博報堂 Group will explain “Sustaina Creativity for Carbon Neutral,” their original solution for turning sustainability into “something everyone can feel good about,” and discuss how to address social challenges while growing businesses.
Companies mentioned：博報堂、KFC
HIS began sales today of admission tickets to GREEN×EXPO 2027, the International Horticultural Exposition to be held in Yokohama in 2027. A range of tickets is available, from advance tickets for individuals to group-discount tickets for businesses, to encourage visitors from Japan and abroad.
Companies mentioned：株式会社エイチ・アイ・エス (HIS)
The Okinawa Basketball Co. Group held its “Gordy Morning Greeting Campaign” at elementary and junior high schools in its home area in April. The group interacted with children, including new first-graders, and strengthened its ties with the community.
銀座コージーコーナー will sell a limited-time collection of sweets inspired by the world of “Star Wars” at stores nationwide starting May 11, 2026. The lineup includes an assortment of petite cakes featuring popular characters and a chocolate cake with an adorable Grogu design, making these must-have treats for fans.
ニトリ launched a service on April 27, 2026, at some of its stores in 1 metropolitan area and 6 prefectures in the Kanto region, as well as Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures. The service offers free recycling collection of unwanted small appliances in the same product category and quantity as small appliances purchased at ニトリ. Products from other companies are also eligible, with the aim of circulating resources and helping customers dispose of unwanted items.
ミライザカ, the izakaya chain operated by Watami, will extend its “New Life Support Campaign Part 2” to 80 locations nationwide starting May 7, 2026, after Golden Week. Benefits include a free meal for 1 person with a reservation for 8 or more, and an extra 30 minutes of all-you-can-drink service from Sunday to Thursday, offering a chance to deepen bonds in a new life stage.
Companies mentioned：ワタミ株式会社
三代目鳥メロ, an izakaya chain operated by ワタミ株式会社, will hold the second installment of its “New Life Support Campaign” to help customers refresh after Golden Week at 74 locations nationwide from May 7 to May 31, 2026. Benefits include a free meal for 1 person when 8 or more people dine together and an extra 30 minutes of all-you-can-drink service from Sunday to Thursday. The campaign has been extended following its popularity.
Companies mentioned：ワタミ株式会社
Hirakata T-SITE will hold its “10th Anniversary Appreciation Festival” from May 8 to 31 to mark its 10th anniversary. Events include a grand prize drawing with prizes such as a 星野リゾート accommodation voucher, special offers at individual stores, and the Hirakata Record Market.
Companies mentioned：星野リゾート、ひらかたパーク、カンデオホテルズ、治一郎、弁才天、JINS、KEYUCA、保険見直し本舗、caelum、ハピスタ、梅の花、GREEN DOG & CAT、ママのリフォーム、ファミリーマート、QB HOUSE、カメラのキタムラ、Agri Tribe Music、ROOK RECORDS、MARADONA RECORDS、MY RECORD、TOTOTO RECORDS、青幻社
The Organization for Small & Medium Enterprises and Regional Innovation, JAPAN (SME Support, Japan) has opened applications for the 15th cohort of “FASTAR,” an acceleration program supporting startups nationwide. The program provides startups seeking an IPO or M&A with approximately 1 year of expert mentoring and fundraising opportunities to accelerate business growth.
Companies mentioned：有限責任監査法人トーマツ
The first tote bag from the collaboration between “Tokyo Banana” and popular character “Chiikawa” will go on sale individually starting May 7, 2026. It features original illustrations and a special charm, and will be available at locations including JR Tokyo Station and Tokyo Skytree Town.
Companies mentioned：株式会社グレープストーン、東京ばな奈ワールド、講談社
Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin will offer “Jardin de fleurs” (Garden of Flowers), an afternoon tea inspired by an early-summer flower garden, at its in-house cafe “CROSS POINT TENJIN” from May 1 to June 30, 2026, for a limited time. The selection features colorful sweets and savory items decorated with seasonal fruits and flowers. The price is 3,000 yen per person, tax included.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ホテルマネージメントジャパン
The anime “Insomniacs After School,” set in Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture, has been selected for the 2026 edition of “88 Japanese Anime Pilgrimage Sites to Visit.” Nanao hopes the anime will attract tourists as the city works toward recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake.
Companies mentioned：小学館、ポニーキャニオン、のと鉄道
星野リゾート OMO7 Asahikawa invited Hiroshi Abe and Yuichi Kimura, authors of the picture book “In the Night of the Storm,” to hold a one-night-only special talk show. Approximately 150 fans attended, and the authors shared stories about the work’s creation and their feelings for Asahikawa. An original-art exhibition and autograph session were also held, providing an opportunity for the authors to connect with fans.
Companies mentioned：星野リゾート、講談社
白泉社 will release “父の逝きざま,” a true-story essay manga by manga artist Sae Utsumi about caring for her terminally ill father at home until his death, on April 30. The work drew a strong response while being serialized and also includes an interview with an expert at the end of the book.
All 14 volumes of the 花とゆめコミックス edition of the popular manga “From Far Away” will be digitally reissued on May 1, 2026. An anime adaptation is also planned for 2026, and the LaLa 50th Anniversary Exhibition will feature original artwork and an autograph session.
Companies mentioned：白泉社
Original5月10日の「コンポストをたのしむ日」に合わせ、松坂屋上野店屋上で資源循環を楽しく体験できるイベント「ＨＥＬＬＯ！循環縁日」が初開催されます。台東区、ローカルフードサイクリング、大丸松坂屋百貨店の3者共催で、コンポストや生ごみ循環を身近に感じてもらう体験型コンテンツが提供されます。
Companies mentioned：台東区、ローカルフードサイクリング株式会社、株式会社大丸松坂屋百貨店、Soil Mate、コアレックス信栄株式会社
A survey jointly conducted by 株式会社NEXER and MHCトリプルウィン株式会社 found that about 90% of HR departments had seen benefits from efforts to improve operational efficiency. It highlighted the gap between the ideal and the reality, in which many HR staff are bogged down in non-core work and unable to focus on core responsibilities, and pointed to strong latent demand for “outsourcing that can handle everything,” from payroll and attendance management to employee benefits.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、MHCトリプルウィン株式会社
A survey jointly conducted by 株式会社NEXER and 北海道屋台 found that Sapporo ramen overwhelmingly led awareness of Hokkaido ramen, at 81.4%. Consumers strongly associate Hokkaido ramen with “delicious broth,” “rich,” and “miso,” and about 73% are interested in enjoying Asahikawa ramen at home.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、北海道屋台
Originalテレビ大阪の旅番組「おとな旅あるき旅」で、三田村邦彦と斉藤雪乃が大阪・弁天町を訪れ、美食と新スポットを巡る。老舗のホルモン焼き、対馬直送ジビエ、隠れ家コーヒー店、愛され続ける餃子、ヴィンテージカー博物館などを紹介し、万博の人気アフリカ料理店も登場する。
Companies mentioned：テレビ大阪
A survey jointly conducted by 株式会社NEXER and デックス株式会社 on awareness and preparedness for earthquakes and disaster prevention found that about 63% of people living in custom-built homes are concerned about earthquake preparedness, while about 72% said they prioritize earthquake resistance when buying a home. However, about 82% did not know their home’s seismic rating, and about 60% had not considered the rating important when purchasing.
Companies mentioned：デックス株式会社、株式会社NEXER
Isetan Shinjuku will hold an event titled “Cookies, Muffins and Me” from May 7 to 12. During the event, which includes Mother’s Day, specialty baked goods from 11 shops will come together to offer a special sweets experience.
Companies mentioned：hungry Cookies/ハングリークッキーズ、muf 生マフィンと時々、お花。/マフ 生マフィンと時々、お花。、パヴェアルチザン芦屋本店、UN LIVRE/アンリブレ、COLOLIE/クロリア、gicca Ikedayama/ジッカ イケダヤマ、SAISON/セゾン、Pâtisserie Couleur/パティスリー クルール
Original雅楽師・東儀秀樹氏のデビュー30周年記念ツアーのうち5公演が、文化庁の子供向け鑑賞支援事業に採択されました。これにより、18歳以下の子供たちは無料で公演を鑑賞でき、同伴者も半額でチケットを購入できます。日本の伝統文化の次世代育成を目的とした取り組みです。
Companies mentioned：文化庁、株式会社UTACA、BSフジ、株式会社矢島聰子事務所、カンロ株式会社、ユニバーサル ミュージック合同会社
The popular novel “Ikebukuro West Gate Park” will be adapted into a reading play for the first time, with performances scheduled for September 26 and 27, 2026, in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. A star-studded cast of 10 voice actors, including Daisuke Ono, Taku Yashiro, and Hiroshi Kamiya, will appear. Advance ticket sales begin May 1.
Companies mentioned：株式会社フォニプロモーション、ロングランプランニング株式会社、文藝春秋、一般社団法人アルテコードラボ
Rising pianist Zooton Wang, who won 3rd prize at the International Chopin Piano Competition, will give 7 recitals nationwide in fall 2025. Performing Romantic masterpieces by Chopin, Schumann, and Liszt, Wang will captivate audiences with exceptional technique and sensitive musicianship.
Companies mentioned：office yamane、NIFC
The ladies’ fashion brand SNIDEL released the latest visuals for its 2026 summer collection, “INDIVIDUAL MOMENTS,” at noon on Thursday, April 30, on the SNIDEL official online site and USAGI ONLINE. The collection will go on sale in stages from late April.
Companies mentioned：株式会社マッシュスタイルラボ、USAGI ONLINE
Originalフェリシモ チョコレート ミュージアムがゴールデンウィーク期間中、開館時間を早めるアーリーオープンを実施。自分だけのミニパフェを作れるワークショップや、チョコレートがもらえる「パッケージハンティング」ゲームも開催され、神戸で楽しい休日を過ごせるキャンペーンです。
Companies mentioned：フェリシモ、パティスリーmarimo
Village Vanguard will launch original Tomica and Plarail products at the experiential pop-up shop “Niko Niko! Norimono Land” from May 15. Must-have items for fans, including limited-edition cushions, will be available at the limited-time event at Ario Nishiarai.
Companies mentioned：株式会社タカラトミー、株式会社トミーテック
Impress will launch “The Easiest AI Research,” an on-demand course on information gathering and utilization in the generative AI era, on April 30. The course explains ways of thinking and practical research methods for using AI not merely as a search tool, but as “the ultimate research partner.”
Companies mentioned：インプレスグループ
Gakken, a subsidiary of Gakken Holdings, announced that popular comedy duo Love Letters have been appointed special judges for the “2nd ‘An Unexpected Ending in 5 Minutes’ Award.” A “Special Judges’ Award” has also been newly established, and entries are now being accepted.
Companies mentioned：株式会社 学研ホールディングス、株式会社 Gakken
Gakken, a subsidiary of Gakken Holdings, is running a campaign to mark the “Dragon Drill” learning app surpassing 200,000 downloads, offering 1-month free coupons to the first 10,000 people. The campaign offers an opportunity for children in grades 1–4 to enjoy learning math and Japanese through games.
Medical Care Service, part of the Gakken Holdings Group, released “Zero Anatomy: Learn Anatomy from Scratch,” an introductory anatomy book, on April 30, 2026. Richly illustrated with artwork, photos, and videos, the book is designed to help everyone from beginners to instructors learn anatomy by connecting knowledge with practice.
Companies mentioned：株式会社 学研ホールディングス、メディカル・ケア・サービス株式会社
Bushiroad Inc. will release “Premium Booster Love Live! Hasunosora Girls’ High School Idol Club,” a new product in the official card game from the popular “Love Live! Series,” on May 1. The company also announced a launch campaign and a donation to relief efforts for the Noto Peninsula earthquake.
株式会社e-Bridge has begun accepting advance consultation bookings for KIZASHI, an AI platform that supports foreign talent from “recruitment” through “retention.” Looking ahead to the system changes scheduled for April 2027, the platform aims to prevent support for foreign talent from becoming dependent on individual staff and to make support quality visible.
Companies mentioned：株式会社e-Bridge
Premium sake brand “TAKANOME (鷹ノ目)” successfully held exclusive dinner events in collaboration with ceramic artist 道川省三 at the renowned Taipei and Kaohsiung restaurants “枝豆” and “銀昇.” The sold-out events offered a multisensory experience combining sake, cuisine, tableware and atmosphere, contributing to the brand’s growing presence in Taiwan and to cultural exchange.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Forbul、はつもみぢ、Welldone Sake（威登酒藏）、銀昇、枝豆
Buffalo and Advance Design will provide free data recovery services to individuals living in areas covered by the Disaster Relief Act, including areas affected by the Reiwa 8 forest fire in Otsuchi, Iwate Prefecture. Diagnosis and estimates are also free, and devices from other manufacturers are eligible.
Companies mentioned：株式会社バッファロー、アドバンスデザイン株式会社、内閣府
The Haru Pharmacy Group has released a video introducing the work of visiting pharmacists. Timed to the homecoming season before Golden Week, the video raises awareness of the importance of home medical care, including for older adults and children, and explains medication management and how to respond to changes in health.
Buffalo Inc. announced that its Wi-Fi 6-compatible access points for businesses have been adopted at the Chukyo Logistics Center operated by ロジスティード中部株式会社. The deployment has enabled stable communications for material-handling equipment and terminals across the center and improved work efficiency.
Companies mentioned：ロジスティード中部株式会社、デンソーウェーブ社、キーエンス社、ブラザー社、サトー社、寺岡精工社
Originalムーンムーン株式会社が実施した「日本人の“睡眠コスパ意識”調査2026」によると、約8割が睡眠を「最もコスパの良い健康投資」と認識しているものの、物価高の影響で実際の投資額は「0円」が最多となり、意識と支出の間に「睡眠投資格差」が生じていることが明らかになりました。
Companies mentioned：ムーンムーン株式会社
The 1st Healthcare Circus, aimed at companies seeking to enter the healthcare business, was held at Grand Green Osaka. About 30 people took part in discussions on challenges specific to healthcare and the process of commercializing businesses. Participants expressed high satisfaction and hopes for future events.
Companies mentioned：パナソニック株式会社、ゴムノイナキ株式会社、株式会社インテグレート、ヘルスケアサーカス株式会社
株式会社MY mama will launch “Shakāka,” a new product that makes it easy to create fun, shakeable stickers and water stickers, on May 1, 2026. The product uses specially designed materials that combine the shop-bought look of popular handmade stickers—which were difficult to make without a dedicated kit—with ease of use, allowing a wide range of customization.
株式会社澤村 has launched an 8-month industry-academia partnership course in the Omizo area of Takashima, Shiga Prefecture, designated an Important Cultural Landscape, in collaboration with 成安造形大学 and 大溝の水辺景観まちづくり協議会. The 24 students will explore ways to repurpose vacant homes and address local challenges through circular design thinking, presenting their results at the “SAWAMURA Marche” in November.
Companies mentioned：成安造形大学、大溝の水辺景観まちづくり協議会、滋賀県立美術館、キュンチョメ
アイフルホームカンパニー’s community facility “アイフルホームのあそべる家” will hold a range of family-friendly events in Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, in May 2026, including “Everyone’s Dagashi Shop” and “GW Treasure Hunt.” The hands-on facility aims to contribute to the community and support child-rearing, and is also available as a rental space.
Companies mentioned：株式会社LIXIL住宅研究所アイフルホームカンパニー、@kosodateouen2025、eyefulhome_ghs、@littlemusicalgarden、moemoe_sendai
三日月屋 is running a limited-time campaign for Mother’s Day, offering a mini carnation and message card as a gift. The offer is available to customers who purchase products at its stores or online shop, with delivery available on Mother’s Day, May 10.
株式会社トップリフォーム has made the “Asia-Pacific High-Growth Companies 2026” ranking for the 4th time. Through remote construction management and staffing support for construction professionals, the company is helping address challenges in the construction industry and achieve strong growth.
Companies mentioned：Financial Times、Statista
Tippsy, one of the largest Japanese sake e-commerce businesses in the U.S., has changed its company name to Palate Holdings Inc. and its brand name to “Palate Project,” shifting its business model from online retail to a vertically integrated, direct-to-consumer importer. The move aims to fundamentally redesign Japanese sake distribution in the U.S. market, offering products at fair prices while maintaining quality.
Companies mentioned：Tippsy, Inc.、Palate Holdings Inc.、国分グループ本社株式会社
河出書房新社 published the latest book by home palliative care doctor 萬田緑平, “Living Until Death: Medicine Is Not Needed for a Peaceful Death,” on April 28, 2026. The book shares messages and real-life cases about letting patients decide how they spend their final days, avoiding futile life-prolonging treatment and achieving a peaceful death at home.
Companies mentioned：株式会社河出書房新社、幻冬舎新書
As the final chapter of “Tokyo Infiorata 2026,” “Odaiba Infiorata with Floral Festa” will be held. Together with members of the public, organizers will create and exhibit giant floral artworks inspired by Japanese patterns and ukiyo-e, using about 47,000 carnations. A Bugaku performance will also be held, offering an experience that brings Japanese traditional culture and art together.
Companies mentioned：一般社団法人花絵文化協会、東京都港湾局、東京港埠頭株式会社、公益社団法人2027年国際園芸博覧会協会、interfm、Coordinadora Internacional de Entidades de Alf
McKinsey & Company has released the white paper “2026 M&A Trends,” which shows that M&A by Japanese companies has reached record levels and is becoming a standard management practice. Key trends include capital flowing into growth areas such as AI and semiconductors, a recovery in large-scale deals and faster portfolio restructuring.
MONO BRAIN社 will hold a webinar on May 13, 2026, examining 8 real-world AI incidents, including information leaks and uncontrolled automated actions, and explaining the design flaws and countermeasures involved. The webinar will propose governance frameworks that control risks without halting the use of AI.
Companies mentioned：M365 Copilot、Lovable、Replit
“Narita Airport Ale (Saison),” an original craft beer from Narita Airport, has won the top Grand Prix award at the Japan Food Selection, one of Japan’s largest food judging competitions. The award recognizes its well-rounded flavor and concept expressing “the beginning of a journey.”
Companies mentioned：一般社団法人日本フードアナリスト協会、チョウシ・チアーズ株式会社、NAAグループ
北海道海鮮 にほんいち 本町店 in Osaka will run a limited-time campaign during the 2026 Golden Week period (April 30–May 4), offering 2 fresh seafood dishes sourced directly from Hokkaido at half price. The campaign responds to people holding back on long-distance trips because of rising prices, offering a chance to enjoy a taste of Hokkaido in Osaka.
Companies mentioned：株式会社N・I、北海道海鮮 にほんいち 本町店
株式会社コミクス will provide 10 months of support to a real estate and staffing services company as it adopts generative AI across 5 departments: general affairs, recruitment, sales, finance and training. The initiative is expected to reduce time spent on work by up to 95%. It features department-specific customization and ongoing support from a CIO.
Companies mentioned：株式会社コミクス
株式会社アローリンク will hold an on-demand seminar about company information sessions that “don’t explain.” In response to current students’ emphasis on “time performance,” it will offer know-how to improve the rate of transition to the selection process.
Companies mentioned：株式会社アローリンク、テレックス関西
Visa has launched its “Agentic Ready” program across Asia Pacific, including Japan, to support payments by AI agents. The program aims to enable issuers to safely test agent-led transactions and promote readiness for AI-powered commerce.
Companies mentioned：SBペイメントサービス株式会社、株式会社クレディセゾン、三井住友カード株式会社、三菱UFJニコス株式会社、楽天カード株式会社
Research Data Marketing’s リサピー®️ conducted a survey on PR activities in the LLMO era. About 60% of communications and PR professionals want to conduct research-based PR, but 45.4% have yet to begin due to a lack of resources. The share of professionals conscious of citations by generative AI stands at 52.1%.
Companies mentioned：IDEATECH
株式会社ファミワン has decided to continue in FY Reiwa 8 (FY2026) its 3 LINE-based programs for women’s health care, fertility support and pregnancy SOS, provided in partnership with 東京都杉並区. The programs address a wide range of health issues, from adolescence to old age, and online consultations will also be expanded.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ファミワン、東京都杉並区、小田急電鉄、TBS厚生会、大成建設、NTT、講談社
Narita Airport’s original craft beer, 成田空港エール（セゾン）瓶, has won the top Grand Prix award at the Japan Food Selection. Its quality of flavor, travel concept and storytelling were highly praised. A specialty craft beer shop is also scheduled to open inside Narita Airport this summer.
Companies mentioned：株式会社グリーンポート・エージェンシー、成田国際空港株式会社、一般社団法人日本フードアナリスト協会、NAAグループ
成田国際空港株式会社 has signed a contract with a design consortium comprising 梓設計, 日建設計 and パシフィックコンサルタンツ to develop a master plan for the new cargo district under the “New Narita Airport” concept. This is an important step toward making Narita Airport an internationally competitive cargo hub in East Asia.
Companies mentioned：株式会社梓設計、株式会社日建設計、パシフィックコンサルタンツ株式会社
According to airport operating data for March 2026, the number of foreign passengers reached a record for the month of March. For FY2025 as a whole, international flight movements and foreign passenger numbers also reached fiscal-year records, while total air passengers and international passengers were at their 2nd-highest levels on record.
シーホース三河 will run a campaign during its games against 越谷アルファーズ on May 2 and 3, giving food purchasers a “Thank You Sticker” and a chance to win a shikishi board signed by all the players. Customers can enter with every 1,000 yen purchase; the campaign is a way to express gratitude to fans.
Companies mentioned：シーホース三河、越谷アルファーズ
Original株式会社ベイクルーズが展開する「JOURNAL STANDARD relume」は、ヒップホップバンド「TOKYO No.1 SOUL SET」とのコラボレーションTシャツを5月中旬に発売します。アーカイブフォトを使用した2型が展開され、ベイクルーズオンラインストアで先行予約が開始されます。
Companies mentioned：株式会社ベイクルーズ、JOURNAL STANDARD relume、TOKYO No.1 SOUL SET
ExtraBold produced the work by car designer 山本卓身 for the TOKYO ROOMS exhibition using トヨタ車体社’s environmentally considerate material “TABWD®(タブウッド)” and a large-format 3D printer. The project aims to expand the possibilities for environmentally conscious expression and manufacturing.
Companies mentioned：トヨタ車体株式会社
Workato has released a connector for “Gビズインフォ,” a corporate database of more than 5 million companies provided by 経済産業省. It enables users to search, retrieve and integrate corporate information without programming, promoting the automation of tasks such as corporate data management and business partner screening.
Companies mentioned：Workato Inc.、Workato株式会社、経済産業省、国税庁、Claude、ChatGPT、Cursor、Cline
株式会社まんてん launched its new service キッズアート on April 23, 2026, turning children’s drawings and crafts into AI animations, collections and 3D figures. The service offers new ways to preserve and honor the works in response to the issue that 51% of parents feel guilty about throwing them away.
Companies mentioned：株式会社まんてん
NPO法人生態会 will publish “Kansai Startup Report No. 26” at the end of April 2026, analyzing the situation facing Kansai startups as fundraising becomes more difficult. The report covers the impact of changes to listing standards, investor perspectives and companies to watch, providing a comprehensive look at Kansai’s startup ecosystem.
Companies mentioned：NPO法人生態会、株式会社ABAKAM、Power Angels、日本エンジェル投資家協会、株式会社WARC、株式会社Arktus Therapeutics、Data Center Xpert株式会社、SkinNotes
Organized by 福島民報社 and held at うすい百貨店, the new event “ふくしま推しフェス2026,” featuring local influencers, will open for the first time on May 14. It will feature participatory activities and social media promotions, aiming to attract younger audiences and showcase the region’s appeal.
Companies mentioned：福島民報社、うすい百貨店、BrightJourney、たくゆり｜福島県のお出かけガイド、幡谷明里、えいた
不動産投資の森, operated by 株式会社AlbaLink, surveyed 500 men and women across Japan about attitudes toward older detached homes in rural areas. The results showed that 61.8% said living in such a home was “a good idea.” Advantages cited included “a spacious lot,” “distance from neighboring homes” and “low housing costs.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社AlbaLink
船橋屋 has released a 2-piece cup kuzumochi set in a box featuring the design of its main store. The convenient size is suitable for gifts, and the packaging evokes the character of the main store. The price is 1,300 yen, tax included.
NPO法人チームふくしま and 一般社団法人ロングスプーン協会 will hold an online forum on May 5, 2026, on the theme of “children’s isolation and loneliness.” The event will explore community support and children’s futures through the activities “お互いさまチケット” and “フードリボン.”
Companies mentioned：NPO法人チームふくしま、一般社団法人ロングスプーン協会
ドッグダイナー株式会社 released the awareness music video “食べたなら、歯磨き革命” Vol. 2, “柴犬編,” on April 30, 2026, to raise awareness of periodontal disease in pets. Its comedic story tackles bad breath and periodontal disease with humor and music, encouraging owners to change their behavior.
“魅惑の果実” by 合同会社ハシモト珈琲 won an award in the new product competition at “第39回グルメショー春2026.” The coffee is infused with real strawberries and contains no added flavoring; drip bags and roasted beans are now being released.
Companies mentioned：合同会社ハシモト珈琲
JISDA and ClearProc have launched a strategic collaboration to build procurement and compliance infrastructure supporting the expansion of domestically made drone components into the U.S. market. The initiative aims to help Japan’s high-quality components meet stringent U.S. procurement requirements in the defense and drone sectors and improve market access.
Companies mentioned：JISDA株式会社、ClearProc
Dart Coffee Co., Ltd. announced that Junichi Suwabe and Takahiro Yasumoto have been cast as voice actors for “Coffee Stars,” its character-themed drip coffee bag series. Production of a voice drama has also been confirmed. By seeking sales partners such as variety stores, the company aims to create a new coffee market where customers choose based not only on “flavor” but also on “characters and stories.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社ダックス プロダクション、株式会社エム・エーフィールド
株式会社パレットグループ has begun full-scale rollout of “1-Tsubo Entertainment,” a new service that uses vacant spaces in stores to attract customers and generate revenue through immersive entertainment. It can be introduced with zero initial costs and fixed fees, and virtually no operational burden, helping commercial facilities and others create reasons for customers to visit.
Companies mentioned：株式会社パレットグループ、フレスポしんかな、京都BiVi二条
株式会社AECOOLY has launched 3 new personal fan models for Golden Week travel and outdoor activities. Designed for portability and a range of uses, they offer a comfortable cooling experience.
Companies mentioned：株式会社AECOOLY、Amazon.co.jp
COCO VILLA Owners, operated by ココザス株式会社, has opened pre-registration for a briefing on a new property created in collaboration with sauna label “madsaunist.” The new vacation-home model is jointly owned by multiple owners and combines profitability with an appealing experience.
Companies mentioned：ココザス株式会社、madsaunist
Chiba Prefecture confectionery shop お菓子のたいよう will launch its gluten-free “Children’s Day Limited Baumkuchen” on May 1, available only for Children’s Day. Made with 100% rice flour from Chiba Prefecture and featuring carp streamer and samurai helmet illustrations, it is a special treat celebrating children’s healthy growth.
Tokyo Reimen will open on public holidays for the first time during Golden Week 2026. Responding to customer requests in Akihabara to “enjoy cold noodles during the holiday break,” it will also open May 4, 5 and 6, and is considering opening on public holidays in the future.
Companies mentioned：SYSTR株式会社
Funabashiya will sell “Mother’s Day Anmitsu,” featuring a carnation-shaped strawberry yokan, at all its stores and online shop from May 8 through 10, 2026. This seasonal limited-edition product offers a way to express everyday gratitude through Japanese sweets, and features colorful ingredients and an elegant cup.
株式会社ツクリエ signed an MOU with Taiwan Startup Terrace on April 28, 2026. The organizations aim to strengthen ties between the startup ecosystems in Japan and Taiwan, support startups from both countries in expanding into each other’s markets, and create opportunities for business collaboration.
Companies mentioned：Taiwan Startup Terrace、Turing Drive、株式会社マクニカ
TechTrain delivered 7 days of hands-on technical training in Ruby on Rails, AWS and Docker for new graduate engineers at a DX platform company. The training aimed to raise participants from “knowing about” technologies to being able to “use them on the job.” All participants reached a level at which they could independently complete everything from application development to infrastructure setup and deployment.
Companies mentioned：株式会社TechBowl
SHOWS株式会社 launched “SHOWS Gray Hair Concealing Hair Foundation,” enriched with skincare ingredients, in early 2026. It not only conceals gray hair but also cares for the hair and scalp while creating a natural finish, and does not affect salon coloring cycles.
Companies mentioned：SHOWS株式会社、MINX、扶桑社
Mysterious project “Easea,” led by director Choi Ho-jung, formerly of ADOR, home to popular K-pop group NewJeans, will reveal its identity by releasing a music video and track simultaneously on May 7. Since the teaser was released, it has sparked speculation on Korean social media that it could be “a new girl group.”
Companies mentioned：ADOR、NewJeans
A survey by 株式会社熱中する組織 found a gap of up to 56 percentage points between growing companies and companies with declining performance in areas such as “an environment where it is easy to take on challenges” and “established systems.” Specific support from supervisors was seen as particularly important.
株式会社アクロバティックス has opened “hitoritoiro.cowork+cafe” at Isobe Onsen in Gunma Prefecture. The multi-purpose facility combines a cafe, coworking, accommodation and local experiences, offering a new way to work and stay at a hot spring resort.
Companies mentioned：株式会社アクロバティックス
株式会社Nobody has launched “Zasekikun,” a participant engagement SaaS platform that provides attendance management, Q&A, live polling and more in one place. It promotes operational efficiency and two-way communication at all kinds of gatherings, including university lectures and corporate training.
Japan’s first “tea-and-alcohol DIY kit,” ZEN TEA BREW, will hold a pop-up event at Sunpu Takumishuku in Shizuoka on May 5. The Shizuoka-born brand ranked No. 1 in an Agriculture Ministry business contest and achieved 999% of its target on Makuake. Free tastings and sales will be offered.
Companies mentioned：株式会社dozo、雷神堂
FP Office Wincam is partnering with WataSelica to launch “Umi-tabi,” a sea burial service on Amami Oshima, starting May 1, 2026. In response to the growing “grave problem” amid a declining birthrate and aging population, the service will offer end-of-life planning support drawing on expertise in life-planning consultations.
Companies mentioned：株式会社WataSelica、厚生労働省、株式会社はせがわ、一般社団法人日本海洋散骨協会
株式会社ホンダウォーク’s outdoor equipment brand “PLOW” will hold the “Spring Ultra Experience Festival: PLOW Festival at the Joetsu Store” at PLOW Joetsu on May 9 and 10, 2026. The event will showcase the fun of outdoor work and activities through product demonstrations, consultations with manufacturers, family events and food trucks.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ホンダウォーク、プラウ (PLOW)、SUNSEEKER Elite Xシリーズ (サンシーカー)
Niigata-based Inquiry合同会社 has revamped its business structure to mark its 10th anniversary. Aiming to address HR challenges at regional small and medium-sized businesses, it supports talent development and utilization across communities through 3 pillars: HR partnership, learning design and impact design.
Companies mentioned：Inquiry合同会社、帝国データバンク