On-site survey with a total of 60 participants! “Yokohama Chinatown Barrier-Free Map 2026,” created with the efforts of residents and supporters, now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Certified NPO ウィーログ has released the “Yokohama Chinatown Barrier-Free Map 2026” in its app, with help from a total of 60 residents and supporters. The first major update in 5 years moves the map from paper to digital, providing information to help wheelchair users and others enjoy sightseeing with confidence.
“AmoyDx® Lung Cancer Multi-Gene PCR Panel” approved as a cross-drug companion diagnostic for EGFR gene mutations in non-small cell lung cancer
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
理研ジェネシス received approval on 2026 April 28 for a partial change to the manufacturing and marketing approval for the “AmoyDx® Lung Cancer Multi-Gene PCR Panel.” The product can now be used as a cross-drug companion diagnostic for EGFR gene mutations in non-small cell lung cancer, helping expand treatment opportunities for patients.
“AmoyDx® Lung Cancer Multi-Gene PCR Panel” receives expanded indication approval for combination therapy with ライブリバント® or リブロファズ® and chemotherapy for unresectable advanced or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer positive for EGFR gene exon 20 insertion mutations
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On 2026 April 28, 理研ジェネシス received approval for a partial change to the manufacturing and marketing approval for the in vitro diagnostic “AmoyDx® Lung Cancer Multi-Gene PCR Panel,” as a companion diagnostic for non-small cell lung cancer positive for specific EGFR gene exon 20 insertion mutations. This expands treatment options for those patients.
株式会社りらく has collaborated with talent 福留光帆 to launch the new “みつほぐし” menu at 603 locations nationwide from 2026 May 11. Alongside a 75-minute course devised by 福留, the launch includes an online live talk and a campaign to win signed merchandise. Discounts for new customers will also be offered.
株式会社リアレーション integrates its talent management business “インキュベーション” into 株式会社Uniiique
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社リアレーション has integrated its talent management business “インキュベーション” into 株式会社Uniiique. Affiliated talents, including 山之内すず, will transfer to Uniiique, bringing together the expertise and resources of both companies to strengthen talent IP management.
【Opening】銀座アスター to open deli shop at 京王百貨店 Shinjuku store
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
銀座アスター will open a deli shop at 京王百貨店 Shinjuku store on 2026 May 14. The shop will offer Chinese-style prepared dishes with a Japanese touch and help reduce food waste through MAP packaging technology. It will promote community-based initiatives and the SDGs.
公益社団法人Civic Force has launched “Government Crowdfunding (GCF),” using Japan’s hometown tax donation system. Aiming to strengthen support systems to protect lives from frequent natural disasters, the campaign will seek donations toward a target of 100万円 from 2026 May 1 through July 29.
【3 consecutive years; No. 1 in Himeji】赤鹿地所 tops “LIFULL HOME'S” real estate sales appraisal inquiries
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社赤鹿地所 has ranked No. 1 in the number of sales appraisal inquiries in Himeji for 3 consecutive years on the “LIFULL HOME'S” real estate appraisal comparison site. The result reflects its provision of attentive, uniquely human consulting that AI cannot offer in response to social issues such as vacant homes and inherited property.
ジェイアイ傷害火災保険 wins overall No. 1 for ２ consecutive years in the 2026 Oricon Customer Satisfaction Survey’s “Overseas Travel Insurance” category
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ジェイアイ傷害火災保険 ranked overall No. 1 for 2 consecutive years in the “Overseas Travel Insurance” category of the 2026 Oricon Customer Satisfaction Survey. The company is stepping up efforts to improve customer satisfaction, including making online procedures more convenient and using AI for insurance claim payments.
From event merchandise to personal fan activities: acrylic photo props easily made online, starting from 1 item
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社イメージ・マジック began selling 4 types of “acrylic photo props” on 2026 April 30 through its on-demand printing service “オリジナルプリント.jp.” Designed to keep fingers out of photos, they support high-quality, social-media-friendly photography and serve a wide range of needs, from personal use to event merchandise.
Smartphone and PC buyback and sales shop “じゃんぱら 錦糸町北口店” opens May 29 (Fri.)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
じゃんぱら will open “じゃんぱら 錦糸町北口店,” a shop that buys and sells smartphones, PCs and other devices, on 2026 May 29. Conveniently located a 2-minute walk from the north exit of Kinshicho Station, it will support local digital lifestyles through the sale and purchase of used digital appliances. An opening sale is also being planned.
プリペアード begins recruiting sales agents in Hiroshima Prefecture for security and infrastructure products, including PLATIAⅢ with nuisance-call prevention features
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プリペアード has begun recruiting sales agents in Hiroshima Prefecture for security and infrastructure products, including PLATIAⅢ with its nuisance-call prevention feature. The company will strengthen its services addressing communications and information challenges for businesses and expand collaboration with community-based partners.
Online seminar to showcase new possibilities in agribusiness! — Innovation opens up the future of agribusiness
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人アグリフューチャージャパン will hold an online seminar series exploring new possibilities in agribusiness. The first session, on 2026 June 18, will feature 玄成秀 of 株式会社Agnavi, which offers “ICHI-GO-CAN®,” a small-format aluminum can for sake. He will speak about structural reform in the sake industry.
Held an assertive communication training session with ANA Business Solutions instructors to deepen mutual trust
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The GLOBALTREE Group held “Assertive Communication Training to Deepen Mutual Trust,” led by instructors from ANA Business Solutions. Approximately 300 people took part, learning communication skills that respect both themselves and others, with the aim of improving the quality of work and life.
Social media-linked, user-participation event “寿司チャレ” for blockbuster product 『OH！寿司ゲーム』 now underway!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイアップ is holding “寿司チャレ,” a social media-linked user-participation event featuring its popular product 『OH！寿司ゲーム』. In the challenge, participants must stack at least 12 pieces of sushi with chopsticks within 30 seconds. Successful participants will receive a certificate and a special sticker.
Report on “The CREATORS Supported by Wick,” an in-person networking event for creators and entertainment companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社トライデントワークス held “The CREATORS Supported by Wick,” a networking event for creators and entertainment companies, at 秋葉原UDX on April 17 and 18, 2026, drawing a total of 2,940 visitors. Cards indicating visitors’ occupations and purposes, profile stickers and activities at company booths helped foster in-depth interaction.
ACSiON and Rakuten Card introduce warning feature to prevent phishing fraud losses
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ACSiON and Rakuten Card will introduce a warning feature to help prevent phishing fraud losses starting today, May 1, 2026. The feature will display a warning screen to customers suspected of having entered personal information on a phishing site, helping prevent unauthorized use before it occurs.
森未来 selected for Google for Startups program “Founders at Campus”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社森未来 has been selected for Google for Startups’ “Founders at Campus” program. The company aims to use Google’s latest AI technology to upgrade timber distribution and proposal operations and create new business opportunities.
Companies mentioned：Google、Google for Startups、Google Cloud
Additional satellite office “Canvas大宮” opened as use expands; office provides support for employment of people with disabilities
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社パレット, a subsidiary of CRGホールディングス, has opened an additional office as use of “Canvas大宮,” its satellite-office business supporting employment of people with disabilities, expands. The move will help meet demand from companies in the Tokyo metropolitan area, strengthen its capacity to accept workers and promote local job creation.
[For smoother internal approval] Download materials for all 18 locations of “ドローンキャンパス,” a 1-night, 2-day drone national qualification course. Check track records and costs immediately, with no sales calls
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“ドローンキャンパス,” a drone school operated by むげんのそら株式会社, has launched a feature for downloading materials for all 18 locations. Prospective students and corporate representatives can now immediately check track records and costs without sales calls, making internal approval and comparisons easier.
[Mother’s Day] Examining 276 messages about “joys before and after childbirth” submitted to postpartum care facility YUARITO
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Josan-she's analyzed 276 comments submitted in a campaign marking the 1st anniversary of the opening of postpartum care facility “YUARITO DAY 日本橋浜町.” The analysis found that what brought mothers the greatest joy during pregnancy and after childbirth was “family bonds.”
[カヤバ株式会社] Renewable energy from locally sourced woody biomass power generation adopted
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カヤバ株式会社 has introduced renewable energy from a biomass power plant in Minokamo, Gifu Prefecture, as it works toward carbon neutrality by 2050. Using a service from 中部電力ミライズ, the company will help reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 4,000 tons annually.
[17LIVE] ONECARAT-affiliated streamer “るぅ☕️Ruu🧁🤍” places 5th in “GAB ME” signboard model competition, advances to final selection with more than 11 million points
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“るぅ☕️Ruu🧁🤍,” affiliated with streamer agency ONECARAT, earned more than 11 million points and placed 5th in the “GAB ME” signboard model competition held on 17LIVE, securing the right to advance to the final selection. The streamer now has a chance to appear in a large-scale advertisement at Shibuya Station.
“BRAND OFF” and “Rodeo Drive” open joint store in Shibuya Center-gai
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“BRAND OFF” and “Rodeo Drive,” part of the コメ兵ホールディングス group, which holds the No. 1 share of the brand resale industry, will open a joint store at “VIVEL SHIBUYA” in Shibuya Center-gai. The store aims to be an experiential space that attracts inbound and domestic demand and showcases new appeal in brand resale.
Exhibiting and presenting at the “3rd SPEXA - [International] Space Business Expo”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DigitalBlast will exhibit at the 3rd SPEXA -International Space Business Exhibition- at Tokyo Big Sight from May 27 to 29, 2026, where CEO Horiguchi will give a presentation on “Space AI Cloud.” The company aims to create industries that leverage the space environment and is working on developing small life science experiment devices and building an in-orbit data center.
[DX for equipment maintenance] Next-generation equipment maintenance cloud “M2X” to exhibit at the 2nd [Kansai] Smart Factory EXPO
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社M2X will exhibit at the 2nd [Kansai] Smart Factory EXPO, to be held at INTEX Osaka from May 13 to 15, 2026, showcasing its next-generation equipment maintenance DX cloud “M2X.” The service addresses challenges such as inspection records and breakdown response processes at manufacturing sites that rely on paper and Excel and are dependent on individual workers, helping improve productivity and operating rates through digitization.
[First time held] The “word” you choose tells the story of where money and investing stand today. Nominations open for the “Money and Investment Buzzword Awards: First Half of 2026”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
幻冬舎ゴールドオンライン will hold its first “Buzzword Awards” for money and investment in the first half of 2026. Linked to “THE GOLD ONLINE フェス 2026 SUMMER,” the event is seeking public nominations in 3 categories—inheritance, stock investment and real estate investment—and will announce the grand prize on August 1.
[123rd edition] “山崎18年” returns. Latest whisky lottery goes on sale May 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
タチバナE酒販 began sales on May 1, 2026, of the 123rd edition of its “豪華ウイスキーみくじ,” a whisky lottery series that has sold more than 55,000 tickets to date. This edition offers 466 limited tickets featuring hard-to-find Japanese whiskies, led by “山崎18年,” for a special experience for whisky fans.
[The top prize is 白州25年] A high-stakes draw limited to 377 tickets. “ゴールデンみくじ,” offering a chance to win popular labels, opens for reservations May 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
タチバナE酒販 will begin taking reservations on May 1 for “ゴールデンみくじ,” limited to 377 tickets, with prizes including the popular whisky “白州25年.” For 7,980 yen, consumers get a chance to win a rare bottle and enjoy a taste of luxury.
Industrial product comparison and sales service “メトリー” launches new commercial featuring Nozomi Sasaki on cable TV station KATCH in the Nishimikawa area of Aichi Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ZAZA株式会社 has begun airing a new commercial featuring Nozomi Sasaki for its industrial product comparison and sales service “メトリー” in the Nishimikawa area of Aichi Prefecture. The campaign is being rolled out on community-based cable TV station KATCH to raise awareness in an area with a concentration of manufacturing companies and expand market penetration.
[Special feature] The past and future of Japanese funeral practices, viewed through the lens of earth burial
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社鎌倉新書 has published the May 2026 issue of 『月刊終活』. This issue features an in-depth special report on “earth burial,” now uncommon in Japan, exploring the past and future of Japanese funeral practices and contemporary issues surrounding earth burial. The feature examines the diverse aspects of end-of-life planning in a super-aged society.
Monthly fund inflow ranking for balanced funds, excluding unit-type and limited additional-type funds: “ROBOPROファンド” takes 1st place (April 2026)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FOLIO’s “ROBOPROファンド” ranked 1st for the 5th consecutive month in the April 2026 monthly fund inflow ranking for balanced funds. Its strategy of using AI to forecast market trends and dynamically adjust investment allocations has paid off, with net assets reaching 390.2 billion yen. Its sales network is also expanding, boosting its standing in the market.
SpaceData appoints Yusuke Onodera as executive officer to accelerate “industry co-creation” linking the digital and physical worlds
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SpaceData Inc. appointed Yusuke Onodera as an executive officer effective May 1, 2026. The strategic appointment aims to accelerate its space and urban development businesses by integrating digital simulation with real-world implementation, and demonstrates the company’s commitment to growth and social contribution.
Companies mentioned：三菱商事、MC Urban Development Indonesia、KKRグループ、東京大学IPC
MEEQ Inc. paid year-end bonuses to all employees who supported its business activities in the fiscal year ending March 2026, with the aim of further boosting their motivation to grow. The move seeks to create an environment where employees can take on challenges with confidence by investing in human capital, and to enhance corporate value.
ATOMica appoints Toshio Isohashi, former head of public offerings and senior adviser at 三菱UFJモルガン・スタンレー証券株式会社, as full-time corporate auditor.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ATOMica Inc. announced that Toshio Isohashi, formerly of Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, became a full-time corporate auditor effective May 1, 2026. To strengthen governance, Takatoshi Aizawa was appointed executive officer and CAO.
Rakuten Card and ACSiON introduce alert feature to prevent phishing fraud losses
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Rakuten Card and ACSiON will introduce an alert feature from May 1, 2026, to prevent losses from phishing scams. The feature aims to protect Rakuten Card customers from the sharp rise in credit card fraud, particularly phishing, by displaying a warning when users enter an ID/password on a suspicious website.
AI video editing school CREATOR'ZZ named main sponsor of BreakingDown19.5!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AI video editing school CREATOR'ZZ has been named the main sponsor of popular combat sports event BreakingDown19.5. CREATOR'ZZ promotes practical creator training using AI and will share its vision through the event.
SNS education business Levela named platinum sponsor of BreakingDown19.5!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SNS education business Levela has been named the platinum sponsor of popular combat sports event BreakingDown19.5. Levela operates SnsClub, an educational business specializing in Instagram, and is supporting the event in keeping with its belief in encouraging people to take on challenges, which resonates with the fighters’ attitude.
V CLINIC, HTF, VO-VO-／H.L.B, VITABON JAPAN, T-CLINIC and XENIS named silver sponsors of BreakingDown19.5
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
BreakingDown株式会社 announced that 6 companies—V CLINIC, HTF, VO-VO-／H.L.B, VITABON JAPAN, T-CLINIC and XENIS—have been named silver sponsors of popular combat sports event BreakingDown19.5. The companies aim to raise brand awareness and support athletes through the event.
A total of 72 top mahjong players, including M League players and champions of the Phoenix, Saikoi and Jan-O titles, to compete: ABEMA to exclusively livestream original tournament M Tournament 2026 from 3 p.m. on Monday, June 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The M Tournament 2026, bringing excitement to the M League’s off-season, will be broadcast live exclusively on ABEMA from June 1, 2026. The individual tournament will feature 72 top professional mahjong players, including M League players, competing for a total prize pool of 30 million yen.
Collaboration items with Sanrio character Pompompurin to be resold by lottery through Feiler gift-concept shop LOVERARY BY FEILER; lottery sales limited to the official Feiler online shop
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Feiler Japan will resell collaboration items featuring Sanrio character Pompompurin and gift-concept shop LOVERARY BY FEILER through a lottery limited to the official Feiler online shop. Customers must register as members to prevent resale; applications open May 7, and shipping is scheduled to begin sequentially from May 27.
Watch and listen to festival music performances at a museum in Handa, Aichi Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Spring festival music will be performed at the Handa City Museum in Aichi Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy traditional music alongside the floats on display, offering an opportunity to deepen their interest in festival culture.
[Phoenix Seagaia Resort] Mangoes are synonymous with Miyazaki! Mango Fair offers a chance to savor their rich sweetness and meltingly tender fruit
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Phoenix Seagaia Resort will hold a Mango Fair from June 1 to July 31, 2026. A wide variety of mango dishes, desserts and drinks will be served at the hotel’s restaurants and bars.
株式会社アシスト begins recruiting sales agencies in the Osaka area for a local search optimization service covering AIO, GEO, LLMO and MEO. The service optimizes generative AI responses and uses cutting-edge technology to connect brick-and-mortar stores with users.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アシスト has begun recruiting sales agencies in the Osaka area for a next-generation local search optimization service integrating AIO, GEO, LLMO and MEO. The service addresses the shift to conversational AI search and uses cutting-edge technology to optimize customer acquisition and visibility for brick-and-mortar stores.
Paper co-authored by 湘南美容クリニック dermatology chief Dr. Ayaka Nishikawa published in international journal Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A paper on radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN), co-authored by Dr. Ayaka Nishikawa, head of dermatology at 湘南美容クリニック, part of SBCメディカルグループホールディングス, has been published in the international journal Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The paper indicates that RFMN is an effective and safe treatment for acne scars, skin laxity and wrinkles, marking an important development in aesthetic medicine.
[April 2026 M&A statistics] 122 deals, up 18.4% year on year; total transaction value of 1.2115 trillion yen
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The number of M&A deals in April 2026 hit a record high, while total transaction value ranked second-highest ever for April. Large-scale industry realignments were at the center of activity, with major deals led by 大和証券グループ本社, 第一三共 and NIPPON EXPRESSホールディングス.
“Pure timber 8-story” AQ Group headquarters building selected for the 日本建築学会 Works Selection and wins the Wood Architecture Award, bringing its total to 8 honors
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AQ Group’s pure timber 8-story headquarters building won the 日本建築学会 Works Selection and the Wood Architecture Award’s Special Jury Prize, bringing its total to 8 honors. The awards recognize its pioneering approach to medium- and large-scale timber construction.
Randstad relocates its Yonezawa branch and opens a new Yamagata branch in Yamagata City
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Randstad Co., Ltd., a comprehensive human resources services provider, will close its Yonezawa branch and open a new Yamagata branch in Yamagata City effective May 1, 2026. The move aims to strengthen services in the Murayama region, where Yamagata Prefecture’s population is concentrated, expanding options for both job seekers and companies.
Companies mentioned：ランスタッド・エヌ・ヴィー、Staffing Industry Analysts
[petit main] Model audition to mark the brand’s 15th anniversary!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Children’s clothing brand petit main will hold a model audition from May 8, 2026, to mark its 15th anniversary. It is seeking models to appear in web, social media and in-store promotional materials, and will also run a discount campaign in collaboration with kids’ photo studio LOVST.
Companies mentioned：ナルミヤ・インターナショナル、LOVST PHOTO STUDIO
A book born from students’ desire to share what they know: 80 years after the war, students publish the 火工廠ガイドブック, researched on foot
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The student project 火工廠プロジェクト at Bunkyo Gakuin University has produced and published a guidebook about the 火工廠, a war relic remaining in Fujimino City. Marking 80 years since the end of the war, the book aims to share history with younger generations and local residents.
Local information platform まいぷれ expands overseas for the first time! Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, website to launch on May 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フューチャーリンクネットワーク, operator of the local information platform まいぷれ, has made its first overseas expansion into Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, launching まいぷれホーチミン on May 1, 2026. Against a backdrop of growing search demand in Vietnam and social media fatigue, it will help local businesses attract customers through AI-powered information sharing and the domain authority built on 26 years of operations.
OriginalEntei Ryu氏が描いた「攻殻機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX 草薙素子&タチコマ」を２つのカラーで立体化
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
プライム１スタジオ is releasing a 1/4-scale statue based on Entei Ryu’s art, “攻殻機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX 草薙素子&タチコマ,” in 2 colors. Preorders open on May 1, with release scheduled for July to October 2027.
“The Masterful Cat Is Depressed Again Today ~The Masterful Cat Is Good at Puzzles Too~”: The 25th Puzzle Cat points event is underway!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Poppin Games Japan is holding its 25th points event for the smartphone puzzle game “The Masterful Cat Is Depressed Again Today ~Good at Puzzles Too~.” Players can obtain the limited character “デキる猫メイドさん諭吉” and wallpapers. New outfits and rereleases of past outfits are also featured to boost fan engagement.
[Kyoto’s Three Great Festivals, Gozan no Okuribi, Kyoto Takigi Noh] Sales schedule announced for premium seating and lunch and dinner plans to enjoy 5 of Kyoto’s traditional events from the “best seats”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
バリューマネジメント株式会社 has announced premium plans offering prime seating for 5 traditional events taking place in Kyoto in 2026: Aoi Matsuri, Kyoto Takigi Noh, Gion Matsuri, Gozan no Okuribi and Jidai Matsuri. The deluxe packages combine dining and cultural experiences at Heian Jingu Kaikan and Funatsuru Kyoto Kamogawa Resort.
[FRONTIER] Popular gaming PCs in the ¥160,000 range! “Golden Week Limited! Golden Lucky Boxes” sale featuring 15 products in limited quantities
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FRONTIER will hold its Golden Week-limited “Golden Lucky Boxes” sale starting May 2. It will offer 15 products, including popular gaming PCs and peripherals, in limited quantities, with high-value products starting in the ¥160,000 range.
The ultimate combo of tartar sauce and fried chicken: Kewpie and Nichirei Foods launch a joint campaign for easy “tartar-fried chicken” recipes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kewpie and Nichirei Foods have launched a joint campaign promoting “tartar-fried chicken,” combining tartar sauce with fried chicken. A prize draw offering items such as an アラジン toaster aims to provide an easy way to enjoy a richer food experience.
Ethical brand LIB unveils limited-edition “Lilac Purple,” a color inspired by spring lilacs
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Ethical brand LIB will offer its limited-edition “Lilac Purple,” inspired by lilacs that herald the arrival of spring, at 21 stores nationwide in limited quantities starting May 1, 2026. The refined purple is suited to a wide range of settings, from business to everyday life.
Bill One surveys “the way accounting teams work,” focusing on the use of AI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey by Sansan株式会社 found that more than 60% of accounting staff do not use conversational AI at work, with “concerns about accuracy” and “security risks” identified as the main barriers. AI use for tasks specific to accounting remains below 20%.
First collaboration event with popular character Mezzo Piano, a hit in the Heisei revival boom! “That ‘love’ from back then lasts a lifetime. Mezzo Piano Colorful Party”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
17LIVE and popular brand メゾピアノ ジュニア will hold the in-app collaboration event “メゾピアノ・カラフル・パーティー” starting May 1, 2026, amid the Heisei revival boom. The event will offer limited-edition merchandise and digital prizes, aiming to boost engagement among livestream users and attract new users.
[FC大阪] HANAZONOCRAFT 花園クラフト named a hometown support partner
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FC大阪 has signed HANAZONOCRAFT 花園クラフト as a hometown support partner. HANAZONOCRAFT’s logo will be featured on the FC大阪 official website, strengthening ties with the local community.
rienda’s 2nd collaboration with Monchhichi confirmed! “Sweet Lollipop” collection launches on Friday, May 15!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fashion brand rienda will launch roomwear and other items from the “Sweet Lollipop” collection on May 15, 2026, as its 2nd collaboration with Monchhichi. The collection features colorful, pop designs and will be available at rienda stores nationwide and online.
“SUPER SUMMER SALE! 2026” offers special prices for summer and fall departures
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
HIS will hold “SUPER SUMMER SALE! 2026” starting May 8, 2026. In response to rising fuel surcharges, it will offer deals on domestic and international summer and fall travel through the use of LCCs and special offers. The sale will particularly aim to stimulate demand for Silver Week.
Acrylic art stands, pass cases, cleaning cloths and more featuring “森田芽衣子” from “一畳間まんきつ暮らし！”【株式会社コスパ】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コスパ’s 二次元コスパ brand will release character merchandise from “一畳間まんきつ暮らし！” in late July 2026. Items featuring 森田芽衣子 and others include acrylic art stands, pass cases and cleaning cloths. Preorders are now open.
[First edition] Special program “Community park,” where attendees can learn how to build relationships between brands and fans/communities and put that knowledge into practice, debuts at Content Tokyo, beginning June 17, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RX Japan合同会社 will hold “Community park” for the first time as a special program at “Content Tokyo 2026,” taking place at Tokyo Big Sight from June 17, 2026. Focusing on the importance of fan communities, the event will offer seminars and networking opportunities to help participants learn how to build relationships between brands and fans and communities, and gain practical insights.
Companies mentioned：RX Japan合同会社、(一社)コミュニティマーケティング推進協会、(株)Asobica、コミューン(株)、(株)フラッグ、X Corp. Japan K.K.、(株)ヤプリ、(株)ニューバランスジャパン、クラウドサーカス(株)、(株)やおきん
Capsule toy specialty store gashacoco to open its 33rd franchise location, gashacoco 明屋書店MEGA平田, on Friday, May 15!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ハピネット will open the 33rd franchise location of its capsule toy specialty store gashacoco, gashacoco 明屋書店MEGA平田, in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, on Friday, May 15, 2026. It will be the brand’s first location inside an 明屋書店, accelerating its expansion nationwide.
The smartphone horse-racing management game “Derby Impact” celebrates its 13th anniversary! A lavish campaign features 1,000 free draws and a “Narita Brian replica-breeding foal” giveaway, among other offers!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社エイチームエンターテインメント will launch a series of lavish campaigns for the 13th anniversary of its smartphone horse-racing management game “Derby Impact” starting May 1, 2026, including free draws and limited-edition foal giveaways. New jockeys and tournament events will also be introduced, in a bid to thank existing users and attract new ones.
A must-see for everyone! Popular Nijisanji VTuber Nozomi Ishigami is getting a figure. Preorders are now open at AmiAmi.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Major hobby retailer AmiAmi has opened preorders for a 1/7-scale finished figure of popular VTuber Nozomi Ishigami, who is affiliated with Nijisanji. The figure faithfully recreates her mischievous gaze and intricately detailed outfit, as well as her companion Byakko. It is scheduled for release in July 2027 at 24,200 yen, including tax.
Feature content for NEWYORKER Women’s “2026 Early Summer COLLECTION” released.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ダイドーフォワード has released feature content for its flagship brand NEWYORKER Women’s “2026 Early Summer COLLECTION” on its online store. The collection presents fresh early-summer fashion that blends traditional styles with individuality and modern elements.
BAPE® has announced a collaboration with HIDDEN®, releasing a collection on May 2, 2026, that blends the heritage of early BAPE® with HIDDEN®’s minimalist aesthetic. The apparel, footwear and accessories strike a balance between past and present, and boldness and restraint.
Edited under the supervision of the editorial team at Nola, the creative platform that supports more than 650,000 writers: “How to Write Award-Winning Fiction for Creators: Advice from Professional Editors and Novelists” (by Jin Hideshima) published!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
indent, provider of the creative platform Nola, will release “How to Write Award-Winning Fiction for Creators: Advice from Professional Editors and Novelists,” supervised by the Nola editorial team, on May 1, 2026. The company aims to support the commercialization of works by more than 650,000 writers and foster the growth of the content industry.
The 10th Border Festival will be held on May 24, 2026, around Yuigahama Odori in Kamakura. The participatory event, which encourages visits and shopping through its border-stripe dress code, aims to revitalize the local economy, with 85 shops taking part.
Companies mentioned：株式会社マイク・グレー、PONT DE CHALONS 鎌倉店、鎌倉市役所、鎌倉シャツ、ポンデシャロン、面白法人カヤック
[Kaga Onsenkyo] Spend a relaxing Golden Week in the castle town of Daishoji: “The 20th Stroll through the Yamanoshita Temple Complex and Soryokan!”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“The 20th Stroll through the Yamanoshita Temple Complex and Soryokan!” will be held in Daishoji, Kaga Onsenkyo, during Golden Week. Visitors can enjoy various events and special exhibitions at historic Soryokan and at Zenshoji, associated with Basho. The event aims to promote tourism in Kaga.
For future CMO talent: 株式会社アドブシ opens applications for its CMO candidate development internship
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アドブシ has opened applications for an internship designed to develop future CMO candidates. The program offers students practical experience and MBA-style training to build marketing strategy and decision-making skills for the AI era.
Higo Pet Friendly Alpark Hiroshima store to grand open on Friday, June 5, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ひごペットフレンドリー will open a new store, Higo Pet Friendly Alpark Hiroshima, at the Alpark shopping complex in Hiroshima on June 5, 2026. With “HIGO GRAND HOTEL” as its concept, the new store will offer an upscale space designed to create special moments with pets.
Fiji holds trade and media event in Japan highlighting experiential value
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
フィジー政府観光局 held a trade and media event in Tokyo on April 28, 2026, focused on experiential value. It highlighted the affinity between Fiji’s brand and the values sought by Japanese travelers, including authenticity, tranquility and human connection, positioning Fiji as a destination for rest and rejuvenation.
JR West has announced a joint campaign with コカ・コーラ社. During the campaign, ICOCA app payments at participating コカ・コーラ社 vending machines will earn 3 times the regular WESTER points during morning and evening hours. The campaign aims to encourage use of the ICOCA app and boost customer loyalty.
“curico vending machines included! Earn 3 times the regular WESTER points with morning and evening ICOCA app payments” campaign to be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JR West and JR West Daily Service Net will run a campaign offering 3 times the WESTER points for ICOCA app payments at curico vending machines during morning and evening hours. The main aim is to encourage commuters and students to use the ICOCA app.
Shibuya City will hold “SHIBUYA MUSIC CROSSOVER 2026 #6 soraya” on August 22. Centered on emerging artist soraya, the event will feature live performances spanning genres and generations, giving residents the opportunity to experience high-quality culture and the arts.
[May 9-10] Toy-Factory to appear at Tokyo Big Sight! Showcasing new ways to enjoy life in a camper van at “FIELDSTYLE TOKYO 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Toy-Factory, Japan’s leading domestic camper van manufacturer, will exhibit at “FIELDSTYLE TOKYO 2026,” held at Tokyo Big Sight on May 9 and 10, 2026. The display will include original models based on FIAT DUCATO, 3 models from European brand “A.I.M,” and the waterless toilet “Clesana X1,” offering new ways to enjoy camper van travel.
Orders open for new TV anime “Dr.STONE” merchandise, including trading acrylic stands featuring scenes from Season 4, Episode 23! Available from AMNIBUS, which sells original anime and manga goods.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルマビアンカ opened orders for 7 new TV anime “Dr.STONE” merchandise items on its online store AMNIBUS starting April 23. The lineup includes acrylic stands and T-shirts featuring memorable scenes with Senku Ishigami and Suika.
Orders open for newly illustrated Beach Date ver. trading acrylic cards and other merchandise from the TV anime Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines! at AMNIBUS, which sells original anime and manga goods
Shindengen Electric Manufacturing to exhibit at Automotive Engineering Exposition 2026 YOKOHAMA
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shindengen Electric Manufacturing will exhibit at Automotive Engineering Exposition 2026 YOKOHAMA, held at Pacifico Yokohama from May 27 to 29, 2026. Leveraging its strength in in-house power semiconductors, the company will present a wide range of solutions, from automotive electrical components to EV infrastructure, and showcase technologies addressing advances in autonomous driving and electrification.
Toshi Yoroizuka to sell limited-edition cookie tins at the Cookie Expo at そごう横浜店
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The confectionery shop Toshi Yoroizuka will sell its limited-edition cookie tin, Sablés Trois Zours, at the Cookie Expo, which opens at そごう横浜店 on May 13, 2026. Chef Yoroizuka will also visit the store for an event where he can meet fans.
Premium inner-care drink THE ANTICARE wins a Nominee Award at the 2026 Monde Selection, earning recognition from an international quality assessment organization for 3 consecutive years
Dive into the world of Korean cuisine! “K-Food Holic Vol.2,” a Korean buffet, set for June. Enjoy around 30 kinds of dishes and sweets in a neon-lit space inspired by a Korean night market.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay will hold the second edition of its popular Korean buffet, K-Food Holic, from June 5 to July 13, 2026. Around 30 kinds of Korean dishes and sweets will be served in a neon-lit space inspired by a Korean night market, offering a dining experience reminiscent of the real thing.
[Osaka, Yao] “We want to see them off beautifully, right to the end”: A new kind of funeral born ahead of Mother’s Day
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hakkoden Co., Ltd. will launch its “Funeral Plan for Women” on May 1, 2026, conceived by female staff ahead of Mother’s Day. The plan proposes a new form of funeral that honors the deceased's individuality and reflects gentleness and beauty. It also offers families an opportunity to consider how they would like to say goodbye in the future.