579 received, 578 listed, 3 sources ・ Page 4 of 6
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 482 items from 2 sources; Taiwan, 96 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
リートンテクノロジーズジャパン is holding the “GW Golden Festival! Wasshoi! Campaign,” with a total value of approximately ¥6 million, on the AI character platform キャラぷ. The campaign features 5 initiatives running simultaneously to encourage new, existing and inactive users to use the service during the holiday period.
合同会社気づけば moved its headquarters to Yokohama in April 2026 to strengthen operations for its gaming PC search site “gg” and its coupon and sale information media outlet “イヤバズ.” The new office will bolster hands-on product testing and content production to provide users with reliable information.
京都橘大学 welcomed Professor Kiyoharu Aizawa, a leading figure in image engineering and media processing, to its Faculty of Digital Media in April 2026. Professor Aizawa is a distinguished researcher who received the Spring 令和8年 Medal with Purple Ribbon. The university aims to advance new education and research, as well as community development, through digital technology.
Companies mentioned：東京大学、東京理科大学、foo.log株式会社、電子情報通信学会、日本IBM、映像情報メディア学会、IEEE、文部科学省、日本放送協会
日本医師会 has released a public awareness video on YouTube to help prevent the spread of measles amid a nationwide outbreak. The video explains that early measles symptoms resemble those of a cold, precautions to take when visiting a medical institution, and the importance of vaccination.
A survey on “〇〇-pa” by クロス・マーケティング found that awareness of “kosupa” and “taipa” was notably high. However, about 20% said they were unfamiliar with the terms, suggesting that broader acceptance remains a challenge.
The holding company of Hmlet Japan, part of the Mitsubishi Estate Group, has acquired Habyt APAC, a flexible-living operator in Singapore and Hong Kong. The acquisition brings the group’s managed portfolio in the APAC region to a total of 2,927 units, establishing its position as a major player originating from Japan.
Companies mentioned：Hmlet Japan Co., Ltd.、FL Japan Holdings Co., Ltd.、Habyt Pte. Ltd.、Habyt GmbH、Blueground Japan、Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.
Piaget has unveiled the “Piaget Cocktail” collection, featuring colorful gemstones and elegant designs. Inspired by the Maison’s history and glamorous lifestyle, the jewelry collection expresses freedom and creativity.
Original朝日新聞の看板コラム「天声人語」が5月1日から新チーム体制で執筆を開始します。古谷浩一氏に加え、石田博士氏と宮地ゆう氏の2名が新たに執筆陣に加わり、3人体制となります。
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Companies mentioned：愛知大学
Channel Corporation, which offers the AI agent チャネルトーク, will hold Japan’s first AI business conference, “CHANNELCON26,” in Tokyo on June 4, 2026. The event will discuss success stories in AI-powered customer support and its contribution to business management, aiming to promote AI adoption among Japanese companies.
Companies mentioned：株式会社with、Koala JP株式会社、株式会社グレイ・パーカー・サービス、株式会社SODA、株式会社オンワードデジタルラボ、株式会社ユナイテッドアローズ、Shopify Japan株式会社、Notion Labs Japan合同会社
叡啓大学 will continue its student brand ambassador program this academic year, adding 31 new members to bring the total to 59. A kickoff meeting will be held on May 12. The initiative has drawn attention as an unusual effort to have students promote their university.
生活協同組合パルシステム新潟ときめき has signed an agreement with 聖籠町 to cooperate in promoting child-rearing support. In the 10th year of its home delivery business, the cooperative will use its community-based network to strengthen support for families with children and community check-ins. This is its 3rd agreement with a local government, and it aims to contribute to community welfare.
Companies mentioned：生活協同組合パルシステム新潟ときめき、聖籠町、パルシステム生活協同組合連合会、パルシステム東京、パルシステム神奈川、パルシステム千葉、パルシステム埼玉、パルシステム茨城 栃木、パルシステム山梨 長野、パルシステム群馬、パルシステム福島、パルシステム静岡、パルシステム新潟ときめき、パルシステム共済連、埼玉県勤労者生協、あいコープみやぎ
株式会社セキド and 東洋製罐株式会社 will hold free live drone demonstrations of repairs, rust prevention and leak inspections in Yokohama on May 22, 2026. Participants can experience how the SABOT-3 Block2 paired with DJI Matrice 400 can improve the safety and efficiency of work at height.
Companies mentioned：株式会社セキド、東洋製罐株式会社、DJI
株式会社コハクジャパン’s brand Fire Meister has unveiled its 2026 lineup. Centered on campfire gear, the product range combines functionality and design and caters to a variety of settings.
Companies mentioned：株式会社コハクジャパン、Fire Meister
中国銀行 has become the first regional bank to invest in 株式会社ふるさとパートナーズ, an asset management company established by NBIホールディングス and PROSPER to form a REIT. The investment will promote regional revitalization through investment in hotels, inns and other properties, and contribute to the sustainable development of local economies.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NBIホールディングス、株式会社PROSPER、昭和リース株式会社、株式会社中国銀行、株式会社ふるさとパートナーズ、SBI新生銀行グループ、星野リゾート、星野リゾート・リート投資法人、星野リゾート・アセットマネジメント、リサ・パートナーズ、楽天野球団、ヴィッセル神戸、楽天モンキーズ、廻鮮寿司 塩釜港、公益社団法人ジャパン・プロフェッショナル・バスケットボールリーグ(Bリーグ)
ネットシスジャパン has released a report on 2025 trends in South Korean inbound travel and accommodation sales for CoreExpress, its sales support service partnered with NOL interparktour, one of South Korea’s largest OTAs. The report shows that expanded regional flight routes have boosted inbound demand for regional cities, with sales at regional hotels rising by as much as 350%, accelerating the shift in demand toward regional areas.
Companies mentioned：NOL Universe Co., Ltd.、日本政府観光局(JNTO)、ティーウェイ航空、エアロK
フューチャーショップ has begun integrating with QuickCEP, an e-commerce marketing platform that combines an AI chatbot with a customer data platform. The integration enables e-commerce businesses to consolidate customer data and efficiently deliver personalized customer service and cross-channel marketing initiatives.
Companies mentioned：株式会社QuickCEP、株式会社フューチャーショップ
Randstad K.K. announced personnel changes effective May 1, 2026. Yoichiro Honda will move from business project manager to transformation director. This signals the company’s focus on business transformation.
Japan Airlines (JAL) and Lifenet Life Insurance signed a capital and business alliance agreement today. JAL will acquire an 18.32% stake in Lifenet Life Insurance and enter the life insurance business, extending the value of “safety and security” cultivated in its aviation business to non-aviation fields.
Companies mentioned：ライフネット生命保険株式会社、auフィナンシャルホールディングス株式会社
The Japan Planning Institute (JPI) will host a seminar on May 22, 2026, titled “The Latest Trends and Future Outlook for Biomass and Biofuels in the Era of Carbon Divergence,” with Shunsuke Kawagishi of Mitsubishi Research Institute as a guest speaker. Looking beyond the GX Promotion Strategy, the seminar will offer a multifaceted discussion of energy security, supply chains, carbon credits and other topics, while also fostering interaction among participants.
Companies mentioned：株式会社三菱総合研究所
Originalマイボイスコム株式会社が実施した食品ロスに関するインターネット調査によると、約74%の人が値引きされていれば賞味期限・消費期限間近の商品を購入し、値引きがなくても約3割の人が購入しています。食品ロスへの関心は7割弱に上り、特に女性や高年代層で高い傾向が見られます。
Companies mentioned：マイボイスコム株式会社
Eikei University Professor Yoshinobu Hayata’s book “The Thinking of Change Leaders: Challenges from the Regions” will be published on May 1, 2026. Through conversations with 10 “change leaders” in Hiroshima, the book introduces the thinking and practices of business leaders seeking to solve regional challenges and revitalize local communities.
Companies mentioned：ヒロマツホールディングス株式会社、株式会社マリモホールディングス、株式会社モルテン、田中食品株式会社、株式会社荒谷建設コンサルタント、学校法人 安田学園、広川グループ、田中電機工業株式会社、山崎本社グループ、福山電業株式会社
株式会社ふるさとパートナーズ has received an investment from Chugoku Bank, the first such investment by a regional financial institution. This will help turn the company’s plan to establish a REIT aimed at revitalizing regional tourism into reality, marking a major step toward building a regional revitalization ecosystem.
Companies mentioned：株式会社PROSPER、株式会社NBIホールディングス、SBI新生銀行グループ、昭和リース株式会社、株式会社中国銀行、株式会社ふるさとパートナーズ、株式会社星野リゾート、株式会社星野リゾート・アセットマネジメント、株式会社リサ・パートナーズ、ソロモンブラザース証券、ゴールドマン・サックス、メリルリンチ日本証券、楽天野球団、ヴィッセル神戸、楽天モンキーズ、廻鮮寿司 塩釜港、公益社団法人ジャパン・プロフェッショナル・バスケットボールリーグ(Bリーグ)
SAGA Hisamitsu Springs defeated 大阪マーヴェラス in the 2025-26 Daido Life SV.LEAGUE WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIP Finals, claiming their first title with 2 consecutive wins. The final matches were held at Yokohama BUNTAI on April 25 and 26, with many spectators watching the thrilling games.
Companies mentioned：大阪マーヴェラス
CRAFTWORKS, the automotive accessories brand of Fun Standard株式会社, has begun selling an “assist grip” for the left-side sliding door of the HiAce 200 series at its official Amazon store. The product is designed to make getting in and out safer and easier for older adults and people carrying luggage. It has a load capacity of 100 kg, is made of rust-resistant stainless steel, and is custom-designed to fit like a genuine part.
Companies mentioned：Fun Standard株式会社、株式会社RKB毎日ホールディングス
Nacode Research Institute has released its “Survey on Dating and Mental and Physical Health 2026.” The survey found that 46.6% of single people seeking a partner have visited a psychosomatic medicine clinic or received psychological counseling, indicating that the process can place a significant burden on mental and physical health. The findings also suggest that the degree of self-understanding is linked to whether people continue or stop their search for a partner.
The 21 グランドメルキュール and メルキュール hotels operated by アコー will hold summer buffets nationwide from May 18, 2026, themed around “street food from around the world” and “三 authentic curries.” The food festival is designed to help guests get through a long, hot summer and offers plenty of customizable options for families to enjoy.
Companies mentioned：アコー、グランドメルキュール、メルキュール
The nationwide street dance competition “D-SHOCK” has announced the start of its 2026-2027 season. It is introducing a 3-category system—“PRIME,” “OPEN” and “BASE”—for everyone from beginners to top competitors nationwide, with 12 qualifying rounds to be held in 7 cities across Japan. Entries are now open, and the competition features fair judging and a comprehensive support system.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Chord Prise
Iga City, Mie Prefecture, will launch “The Ancient City of Forest and the Secret of the Lost Water,” an interactive game in which players solve puzzles while exploring the area, on Reiwa 8, May 1, as part of its forest environmental education and human resource development efforts. The game is aimed at everyone from junior high school students to adults and seeks to deepen understanding of the natural environment.
Companies mentioned：伊賀市未来の山づくり協議会、青山ハーモニー・フォレスト、種生区
To mark its 26th anniversary, Tokyo Dome Hotel will offer its “Les Plaisirs Noirs” special summer French course for a limited time starting June 1, 2026. The course lavishly features premium black abalone, Japanese black wagyu and black truffles, and is an artistic full-course meal created by a chef trained in France.
“MixChannel,” the livestreaming app provided by 株式会社DONUTS, has adopted Minna Bank’s transfer API and launched “Same-Day Cashback,” a new feature for livestreamers and creators, in April 2026. This enables them to receive earnings as soon as the same day, helping boost their motivation and strengthen the platform’s competitiveness.
Companies mentioned：株式会社みんなの銀行、株式会社DONUTS
A booking feature has been added to Rakuten Travel’s AI agent, “Rakuten AI,” enabling end-to-end support from AI-powered accommodation recommendations through to completing a reservation. This gives users a smoother, more personalized travel booking experience.
Feiler Japan will hold “FEILER ART MUSEUM” at Roppongi Hills from April 30 to May 6. Visitors can experience the world of Feiler art through displays presenting bags as works of art, an audio guide by Yuki Kaji, limited-edition cafe menus and a stamp rally. New items for Mother’s Day will also be available.
British American Tobacco Japan (BAT Japan) held “THE MOMENT -That Moment Exhibition by VELO-,” an interactive exhibition expressing the world of its oral tobacco brand “VELO” through art and music, at Miyashita Park on April 25 and 26, 2026. The exhibition offered visitors an experience of “REMIXING that moment” through works by 6 artists, including Face Oka, live painting and DJ music.
Companies mentioned：ブリティッシュ・アメリカン・タバコ・ジャパン合同会社、TREKKIE TRAX
“WATERS takeshiba ART & MUSIC Festival 2026” will be held at ウォーターズ竹芝 on Saturday, May 16, 2026. This hands-on outdoor festival offers a diverse lineup of experiences, including live performances and DJ sets by distinctive artists such as Reiji Okamoto, an art exhibition by R領域, and workshops.
Companies mentioned：ウォーターズ竹芝、JR東日本四季劇場、アトレ竹芝、メズム東京、オートグラフ コレクション
Beauty platform LIPS labo has announced its latest Top 20 ranking of “original heartthrob comedians.” The survey was conducted six months after the initial ranking was released last October, and shows that the boom is continuing, with awareness of the term “mero-i” exceeding 90%.
Companies mentioned：X、TikTok
ジンマー・バイオメット合同会社 conducted a survey ahead of Mother’s Day on “Parents’ leg and joint pain and how families notice it.” The findings revealed that about 40% of adult children do not recommend medical care even when they notice their parents’ pain, instead dismissing it as a consequence of aging. Lack of awareness of future caregiving risks remains a challenge.
Companies mentioned：Zimmer Biomet
Episode 6 of the survival audition show “PRODUCE 101 JAPAN 新世界” began exclusive free streaming on NTTドコモ’s video streaming service “Lemino” at 21:00 on April 30, 2026. Highlights include new team selections and a surprise appearance by members of INI.
Companies mentioned：NTTドコモ、INI
“Yodoyabashi Gate Tower,” a large-scale business tower developed by 淀屋橋駅西地区市街地再開発組合, Daiwa House Industry, Sumitomo Corporation and Kansai Electric Power Real Estate Development, will grand open on July 9, 2026. Featuring a retail zone, offices and a rooftop garden, it will become a new hub in Osaka’s Yodoyabashi area.
Companies mentioned：淀屋橋駅西地区市街地再開発組合、大和ハウス工業株式会社、住友商事株式会社、関電不動産開発株式会社
福岡県 has opened applications for FY2026 of “High School ∞ Challenge ~Entrepreneurs Challenge~,” a program in which high school students tackle social issues through business. Applicants can apply even if their ideas are still vague. The program provides 2 years of ongoing support and up to ¥500,000 in activity funding, aiming to develop the next generation of talent.
Companies mentioned：一般社団法人福岡県中小企業経営者協会連合会、福岡県
株式会社CHOIX surveyed 200 business professionals who use AI tools. While about 90% said they felt their work had become more efficient, over 60% reported experiencing AI fatigue. The survey revealed the reality of efficiency and fatigue coexisting, along with the causes and possible countermeasures.
Companies mentioned：株式会社CHOIX
Original株式会社不動産科学研究所は、ゴールドマン・サックス不動産ファンド出身の小原正徳氏が主宰する「不動産アカデミー本講座」の第8期を2026年7月1日より開校すると発表しました。累計受講生は500人を突破し、小原氏の新刊もKADOKAWAから発売されます。
Companies mentioned：KADOKAWA、EYトランザクション・アドバイザリー・サービス（EYグループ）、ゴールドマン・サックス
株式会社イースト・ライブ will hold “Nyangu Expo vol.2,” a sales event for cat-themed stationery and goods, in Asakusa on June 20 and 21, 2026. The second edition of the popular event will also feature cat products, offering an even wider world of “nyangu” to enjoy.
Cardif General Insurance has developed mortgage repayment coverage for “dementia.” The coverage will be available at 京葉銀行 starting May 1, 2026. The industry’s first dementia coverage aims to ease concerns about long-term mortgage loans.
Companies mentioned：京葉銀行、BNPパリバ、BNPパリバ・カーディフ
株式会社コハクジャパン has announced the 2026 models of its electric motorcycle brand Surron, introducing the “electric × off-road” riding culture the brand is driving and its development philosophy. Its lightweight, high-output product design has earned it a strong following in the electric two-wheeler market.
Companies mentioned：株式会社コハクジャパン、Surron
“Pilates Mee,” a studio specializing in reformer Pilates and operated by 株式会社RiAGEL, will open a new location in Chuo Ward, Chiba City, on May 1, 2026. Accessible from 3 stations, it will offer small-group semi-private sessions and fully private lessons.
ＪＲ東海不動産 acquired the rental apartment building “御棚町Hills” in Chikusa Ward, Nagoya, in April 2026. This is the company’s 2nd income-producing property acquisition. It is part of a strategy to expand its real estate business, primarily along the Tokaido Shinkansen line, and increase the value of communities along the line.
Companies mentioned：ＪＲ東海不動産株式会社、ＪＲ東海グループ
Jewelry box brand “sentoujours.” will begin online sales of its “O Ring” line, featuring a design emblematic of the brand, on May 1, 2026. The collection offers a wide range of colors and sizes, and a pop-up will also be held at エストネーション六本木ヒルズ店.
Companies mentioned：STJ Creations株式会社、sentoujours.、エストネーション六本木ヒルズ店
Nakatsu City in Oita Prefecture has introduced “Ato-furu®,” a pay-later furusato tax donation service and the first of its kind in Kyushu, in collaboration with 株式会社電算. The service can be used at accommodation, dining and experience facilities in the city, helping promote local spending and build lasting connections.
Companies mentioned：株式会社電算、dsnあとふる株式会社
株式会社ヤソ has grand opened “EMMA's FOOD&GROCERY Chino Station Front Store” on the 1st floor of ベルビア, directly connected to JR Chino Station. The grocery and lifestyle shop aims to enrich local dining and offer souvenirs to visitors. The company’s flagship store for its own fragrance brand “yaso” has also opened at the same time.
白十字 will begin selling its “CHOCOLATE BOX” chocolate cake online nationwide as a frozen product. Inspired by memories of a restaurant from about 50 years ago, the cake is now available beyond its previous in-store sales. It has been reworked to preserve its delicate, melt-in-the-mouth quality while reaching customers farther afield.
Japan TCG Center will hold the “JTCC 3rd Anniversary Thank-You Festival” starting April 30, 2026, to mark the 3rd anniversary of its online “Japan TCG Center” oripa service. Special oripa offerings worth 3.33 million coins will be given away every day during the event, and users can participate by logging in or adding funds.
株式会社上間菓子店, based in Tomigusuku, Okinawa Prefecture, began offering free, reservation-free tours of its “スッパイマン” factory and a permanent display of custom cars and motorcycles commemorating its 60th anniversary on April 24. The popular attraction draws 62,000 visitors annually and also offers limited-edition ice cream and original merchandise.
Companies mentioned：株式会社上間菓子店、LIBERTY WALK、ブルーシール
Odds Park Co., Ltd. sponsored the SG 45th All Star Auto Race, held at Iizuka Auto Racecourse from April 24 to 29, 2026, and hosted the family event “Exciting Ocean Experience FEVER!” Through its sponsorship, the company promoted the appeal of auto racing and contributed to revitalizing the host community.
Companies mentioned：SBプレイヤーズ株式会社
Original和平フレイズ株式会社は、1人分調理に最適なスリム形状のフライパン「ToMay スティックパン＜オーバル＞」を発売しました。狭いキッチンでも省スペースに収納でき、焼く・炒める・茹でるなど1台6役で、単身世帯や共働き世帯の少量調理ニーズに応えます。
Original和平フレイズが、1人分調理に最適なスリム形状のフライパン「ToMay スティックパン＜スクエア＞」を発売しました。狭いキッチンでも省スペースに収納でき、少量の調理を簡単にしたいというニーズに応える新発想の製品です。
SDF Capital has established its 2nd startup debt fund and completed a first close of approximately ¥5 billion. It aims for a total fund size of ¥20 billion and will focus on providing M&A financing and investing in and lending to later-stage companies to meet the diverse funding needs of Japan’s startup ecosystem.
Companies mentioned：SDFキャピタル株式会社、株式会社紀陽銀行、株式会社山陰合同銀行、株式会社地域経済活性化支援機構（REVIC）、東海東京インベストメント株式会社、富国生命保険相互会社
KAWAGOE BC/LAFESTA KAWAGOE has signed a new basic partnership agreement with 株式会社日本トリム for the 2026-27 season. 日本トリム is a company that provides products and services leveraging the functional properties of water.
Companies mentioned：株式会社日本トリム、KAWAGOE BC、LAFESTA KAWAGOE
Synclayer partnered with Iruma Cable Television to provide an app-free WebAR service at the Grand Sumo Tournament in Iruma. Visitors could take commemorative photos with a yokozuna using their smartphones, enhancing the event experience and improving operational efficiency.
Companies mentioned：入間ケーブルテレビ株式会社、大相撲入間場所実行委員会
株式会社Leach completely revamped its generative AI advisory service on May 1, 2026. Starting at ¥50,000 per month, the service adds instant chat support and AI auditing, offering new DX consulting that guides small and midsize businesses through AI adoption, from “consultation” to “implementation,” as their “technology gatekeeper.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社Leach、ミナトHDグループ、株式会社リキマン、株式会社ナベル、株式会社ミズナラ
The “HR Professionals Gathering,” hosted by “Jinjiru-bu,” will be held in Osaka on May 22, 2026. The 25th edition will return to the event’s roots, aiming to provide HR professionals with a purely social opportunity to connect. Admission is free.
Miyazaki Shuzoten, a long-established brewery in Kimitsu, Chiba Prefecture, has been selected for the first installment of a monthly collaboration at the sake lounge “Ikkon Fuugetsu by PERIE CHIBA,” directly connected to JR Chiba Station. From May 1 to May 31, 2026, the program will feature an event with the brewery’s owner, food pairings with local ingredients, a tasting of the novel “Biondo” series, and special sales of rare labels, helping promote Chiba’s sake culture.
Companies mentioned：株式会社穴太ホールディングス、株式会社宮崎酒造店、ペリエ千葉
Kyoritsu Seiyaku will exhibit at the “Shonan iPark Festa 2026,” to be held at Shonan iPark on May 23, 2026. The company will offer hands-on activities for children, including pony rides that let them interact with animals, and share the message that animals are good companions for people. The event brings the company’s mission, “Creating a path forward for animals and people,” to life.
Companies mentioned：共立製薬株式会社、NPO横浜市馬術協会、湘南ヘルスイノベーションパーク
“Sanriku Mekabu with Stems,” a product from 株式会社トリトンフーヅ, won the 宮城県漁業協同組合 Chairman’s Award at the 50th Miyagi Prefecture Seafood Processing Products Contest. It was recognized for its sustainability, through the use of stem portions that would otherwise be discarded, and its distinctive texture, and is expected to contribute to more sustainable dining.
Companies mentioned：株式会社トリトンフーヅ、宮城県漁業協同組合
UR都市機構 has published issue 85 of its magazine “UR PRESS,” featuring an interview with actor Rena Tanaka and a special feature on 15 years of recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake. It introduces UR’s recovery support efforts, including rebuilding communities in disaster-hit areas and constructing disaster recovery public housing.
Companies mentioned：UR都市機構、新潮社
Arc’teryx will reopen its “MARK IS Minato Mirai Brand Store” in Yokohama with an expanded space on May 15, 2026. The store will expand its product lineup to support customers’ outdoor activities. A “Climbing Gym Stamp Rally” will also be held to mark the occasion, strengthening ties with the local community.
Katsusaku Hashimoto, chairman of Hashimoto Gumi Co., Ltd., has received the Medal with Yellow Ribbon in the spring honors of Reiwa 8 in recognition of his longstanding contributions to harbor and fishing-port construction and marine heavy-lifting work. His contributions to industry development, technological advancement, workforce training and the local community were highly commended.
Katori City in Chiba Prefecture will hold the 3rd “Katori City Agricultural Support Day” on May 16, Reiwa 8, a day-trip farming volunteer program for urban residents that supports local agriculture facing an aging population and labor shortages. Participants will thin corn seedlings and weed, and will receive local vegetables in return.
As a limited-time summer dining experience, Hyatt Regency Yokohama will offer the “Summer Signature Course Scala” at MILANO｜GRILL and “A Gourmet Journey Around the World 2026: Traveling Through Port Cities in North and South America—Summer” at Harbor Kitchen. Guests can enjoy lavish course meals and buffets featuring seasonal ingredients.
C-VALUE crowdfunding, which supports Chiba Prefecture, has announced new projects for April 2026. The featured projects aim to revitalize local communities and include motsu stew in Kashiwa, an esports tournament in Sakura, a Shizuku sake event in Shisui, and whiskey sales in Kimitsu.
Companies mentioned：合同会社しばた、Ais合同会社、株式会社飯沼本家、ウイスキー「久留里」プロジェクト、ちばぎん商店株式会社、株式会社千葉銀行、須藤本家
Fog Co., Ltd., operator of the online lottery platform “RAFFLE” and other services, raised approximately ¥300 million in its Series B 1st round, bringing its cumulative funding to approximately ¥600 million. Nissay Capital and TBS Innovation Partners participated in the round. The company will strengthen marketing for its online original official merchandise business and upgrade operations using AI and technology, with a future IPO in view.
Companies mentioned：ニッセイ・キャピタル株式会社、TBSイノベーション・パートナーズ合同会社、ユナイテッド株式会社、株式会社集英社
株式会社マイネット and Sega, which jointly operate the dramatic-conflict RPG Like a Dragon ONLINE, will mark its 7.5th anniversary on May 21, 2026. To celebrate, they are holding a packed “7.5th Anniversary Campaign” featuring the introduction of the new LR rarity, premium rewards and free gacha draws, while expressing their gratitude to users.
Companies mentioned：株式会社マイネット、株式会社マイネットゲームス、株式会社セガ
Pocket Card has acquired all shares in debt collection company MTK, making it a subsidiary. The move aims to reduce costs and boost productivity by bringing debt management in-house, while establishing a new revenue stream through the purchase and collection of external receivables.
Companies mentioned：エム・テー・ケー債権管理回収株式会社、伊藤忠グループ
株式会社TRAPE, serving as a business adviser to 岡山県介護生産性向上総合相談センター, provided productivity improvement support to 3 model care facilities in Okayama Prefecture using the free online tool “生産性向上くん®” and the hands-on support service “Sociwell.” The initiative successfully improved operational efficiency at care facilities, staff job satisfaction and the quality of care for users, demonstrating that putting the “why, what and how” into words is as important as introducing technology.
Companies mentioned：株式会社TRAPE、岡山県介護生産性向上総合相談センター、公益財団法人介護労働安定センター岡山支部、医療法人社団良友会 介護老人保健施設藤崎苑、株式会社楽喜 ヘルパーステーションあゆむ、株式会社セラヴィ グループホーム咲くら
VIE株式会社 and 日本経済新聞社 will hold “ZEN NIGHT Tofukuji,” a special nighttime viewing event, at Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto from May 29 to July 5, 2026. The event will offer immersive art experiences, including “Neuro Music Zazen,” which uses brainwave-measuring devices. Previous editions drew about 50,000 visitors and received high satisfaction ratings.
Companies mentioned：日本経済新聞社、臨済宗東福寺派大本山東福寺、公益社団法人京都市観光協会、JTB、東海旅客鉄道
Sustech has been selected for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s “Global South GX Promotion Project,” accelerating its business expansion in the Philippines. The company provides “ELIC,” an AI-powered electricity management platform, and “CARBONIX,” a decarbonization support cloud service, contributing to solutions for the Global South’s energy challenges.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Ink
The traditional performing art “Tsugi-shishi” will be presented during spring festivals starting in Golden Week in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture. In this unusual dance, people stand on one another’s shoulders; it has continued for more than 300 years, since the Edo period, and is designated an intangible folk cultural property by Ehime Prefecture. It was also performed at last year’s Osaka-Kansai Expo, attracting attention from Japan and abroad.
MIXI and RePlayce signed a naming rights agreement for the correspondence high school support school “HR High School Shibuya Campus,” which opened as “HR High School SHIBUYA MIXI BASE.” The companies have launched the “Let’s Build a Campus” project, offering new learning experiences co-created by businesses and schools through special AI classes and PBL.
Companies mentioned：株式会社RePlayce、株式会社MIXI
Kabaya Foods will launch an official YouTube channel for its long-selling toy candy “Hone Hone Saurus” on April 30, 2026. The company aims to expand its fan base with content for children and adults alike, including videos using CG and generative AI, productions by professionals, and dinosaur trivia.
Professional basketball team バンビシャス奈良 announced that its contract with player Hayato Otsuka will expire at the end of the 2025-26 season, and that he was placed on the B.League’s free agent list on April 30.
Companies mentioned：バンビシャス奈良、豊田通商ファイティングイーグルス名古屋、西宮ストークス、秋田ノーザンハピネッツ、青森ワッツ、ライジングゼファー福岡、ベルテックス静岡
Tachibana E Liquor (株式会社アップライジング) began selling “Super Omikuji,” a whisky lottery featuring the hard-to-find Hakushu 18 Year Old, exclusively on Amazon.co.jp from April 30. Limited to 466 tickets, it is priced at 7,777 yen, including tax and free shipping.
Companies mentioned：Amazon.co.jp、楽天市場、Yahoo!ショッピング
2ndfocus, a brand operated by E&Iクリエイション株式会社, is taking part in “Amazon Smile SALE Golden Week,” running from April 30 to May 3, 2026, and offering up to 30% off lens products from AstrHori and SG-image.
Companies mentioned：2ndfocus、E&Iクリエイション株式会社、Amazon、AstrHori、SG-image
Royal Enfield announced that it will hold “Himalayan Base Camp - Ladakh Edition” for the first time from September 4 to 6, 2026, in Leh, in the northern Indian region of Ladakh. The event is designed not as just a festival, but as an opportunity for adventure enthusiasts to build their skills and experience through a range of activities, including motorcycling, cycling and mountaineering.
TOUCH TO GO and JTB Shoji have partnered to install the “TTG-SENSE” unattended checkout system in the shop at the long-established inn 延対寺荘 in Toyama Prefecture. The system is expected to improve the inn’s operational efficiency and convenience for guests.
Companies mentioned：株式会社TOUCH TO GO、株式会社JTB商事、延対寺荘
xID株式会社 has refreshed the logo colors of “SmartPOST,” a digital mail service that delivers important notices from local governments to residents’ smartphones. The change aims to improve the service’s visibility and clarify its brand concept.
Companies mentioned：xID株式会社
株式会社WSP-R will hold a limited-time pop-up store featuring 3 brands—WSP, Pearl for Life and MARLENA—at 阪急うめだ本店 from May 6 to May 31. The store will showcase a wide range of products, from top-quality pearl jewelry to everyday items, with pearl advisers on hand.
Companies mentioned：株式会社WSP-R、株式会社WSP-HD、阪急うめだ本店
TSP太陽株式会社 has released the results of a survey on interest in attending events during Golden Week. Food events remain popular, particularly among people in their 40s and 50s, with more than half expressing interest; the survey also found strong interest in attending with family.
Companies mentioned：TSP太陽株式会社
NTTドコモ will run a lottery campaign at ローソン group stores from May 1 to June 30, 2026, offering up to 777 times the d POINTS in the first round or 888 times in the second. 50,000 people will receive points in each round, and presenting a d POINTS card or paying with d払い will increase the odds of winning.
Companies mentioned：NTTドコモ、ローソン、ナチュラルローソン、ローソンストア100
株式会社ワサビ will establish a new company, “ワサビラボ,” in May 2026 to provide hands-on logistics, listing and photography operations, and training for the resale industry. Going beyond system provision, it aims to closely align on-site operations with systems, address labor shortages and operational challenges in the industry, and build the next-generation standard.
Original焼きたてカスタードアップルパイ専門店「RINGO」が、初夏限定の新作「焼きたてオープンパイ〔マンゴー〕」と「焼きたてオープンパイ〔チェリー〕」を2026年5月15日より発売。夏の果実を主役にしたオープン型のパイで、視覚と嗅覚で楽しめる。
Companies mentioned：株式会社BAKE、RINGO
Rainy, a member of the Fortnite division of professional esports team DetonatioN FocusMe (DFM), has earned a spot in the global tournament "FNCS Major 1 Summit." Rainy finished runner-up in the "FNCS Major 1 Second Chance Qualifier," qualifying for a global tournament for the first time. It is DFM's first bid to compete on the global stage in 3 years, since 2023, drawing attention in the esports world.
Companies mentioned：株式会社GameWith、株式会社DetonatioN
Aflac Life Insurance and Aflac Small Amount and Short-Term Insurance have begun donating 5.25 million yen raised through a pediatric cancer support initiative to 15 pediatric cancer hospitals nationwide. The funds were contributed based on sales of a specific cancer insurance product.
Companies mentioned：アフラック生命保険株式会社、アフラック少額短期保険株式会社
Sydney Olympic gold medalist Naoko Takahashi has been named event ambassador for Saitama Marathon 2027. Takahashi called Saitama's beautiful course an ideal stage for recreational runners to enjoy, and said she hopes to help build excitement for the event with enthusiastic support for her home region.
Companies mentioned：公益財団法人日本オリンピック委員会、公益財団法人日本陸上競技連盟、公益財団法人日本パラスポーツ協会、一般社団法人パラスポーツ推進ネットワーク、公益財団法人日本財団パラスポーツセンター、一般社団法人RainboW Walking、一般社団法人名古屋スポーツコミッション、スターツコーポレーション株式会社、スズキ株式会社、中日新聞社、一般社団法人さいたまスポーツコミッション
The Osaka Social Issues Resolution Fund 2, managed by ミライドア株式会社, has invested in 株式会社パブリックコネクト, which provides the "PUBLIC CONNECT" recruitment platform for government agencies and local governments. The investment aims to support public-sector recruitment and the sustainable development of local communities.
Companies mentioned：ミライドア株式会社、大阪信用金庫、株式会社パブリックコネクト、日本政策金融公庫、大阪府、大阪産業局、AIフュージョンキャピタルグループ株式会社
A new exhibition, "Gucci Storia," curated by artistic director Demna, will open to the public at Palazzo Gucci in Florence on April 27, 2026. In a multifaceted space, it explores Gucci's history, craftsmanship and vision for the future, reinterpreting the brand's diverse identity.
Companies mentioned：GUCCI
アソビュー株式会社 has made 株式会社The Kids, which operates all-weather children's parks with 65 locations nationwide, a wholly owned subsidiary. The move integrates Asoview's SaaS and reservation platform with The Kids' physical locations, aiming to address challenges in the leisure industry, including labor shortages and business succession issues, and build an AX-driven business revitalization model.
Companies mentioned：アソビュー株式会社、株式会社The Kids
スタディチェーン株式会社 has substantially revamped the curriculum and preparation plan for its online coaching program specializing in comprehensive admissions at 法政大学. It analyzed 25 years of admissions data with the aim of maximizing acceptance rates.
Companies mentioned：スタディチェーン株式会社、法政大学
東京建物株式会社 will hold FIKA "Forest Bakery," bringing together 19 distinctive bakeries at Otemachi Forest, directly connected to Otemachi Station, from May 13–15, 2026. The event offers a chance to experience Nordic FIKA culture and enjoy a special moment in a forest in the heart of the city.
Companies mentioned：東京建物株式会社
"Overflowing with Love," the cover art from illustrator necömi's first art book, has been brought to life as a 1/5-scale statue by PRIME 1 STATUE, the high-end brand of Prime 1 Studio. Reservations open April 30, with release scheduled for September–December 2027. The price is 136,290 yen, with 300 units available.
Companies mentioned：株式会社プライム１スタジオ
NTT West will begin sales on May 1, 2026, of Hikari Business Phone, a monthly rental service that includes support and equipment replacement every 8 years. It addresses the barriers to adoption and operational burden associated with conventional options, supporting businesses' growth and diverse work styles over the long term.