Nobel Prize in Literature announcement approaching! The acclaimed author’s signature work receives its first Japanese translation to coincide with his visit to Japan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To coincide with the visit to Japan by Amitav Ghosh, a leading contender for the Nobel Prize in Literature, 株式会社KADOKAWA will publish his signature work “Gun Island” on September 30, 2026, and hold a commemorative talk event.
Fun for everyone from babies to adults! “Halloween Marche” to be held for the first time at Tokorozawa Sakura Town! Featuring a witch’s mission and Halloween flower displays
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KADOKAWA and 株式会社角川メディアハウス will hold “Halloween Marche 2026,” an event for families, for the first time at Tokorozawa Sakura Town in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, on October 24 and 25, 2026.
Ask AI about your company name and get answers that are “factually incorrect,” “confused with competitors” or “missing” — Free seminar for PR professionals on “measuring” AI memory to be held October 14
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社トドオナダ will hold a free online seminar for PR professionals, “A Practical Seminar on Measuring AI Memory,” on October 14. Using Diggy Diggy, a tool for measuring how generative AI recognizes company names, the seminar will explain AI memory structures and methods for evaluating LLMO.
“Musclemen × Caregivers” — 株式会社VISIONARY connects companies with fitness athletes through “macho recruitment”; 19 participants join the exclusive “Draft Tryout Class” category
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
About the fitness contests “APF VISIONARY TRYOUT CUP 2026” and “APF VISIONARY CUP 2026,” held by 株式会社ビジョナリー in collaboration with APF. In the exclusive “Draft Tryout Class” category, 19 athletes competed and 18 received offers from companies. The Visionary team “7SEAS” won the corporate team competition for the 3rd time. The company has been recruiting “macho caregivers” since 2018 and is expanding this approach to other industries as “macho recruitment.”
Facts
19 athletes competed in 2026
18 athletes received offers from companies
Recruiting “macho caregivers” since 2018
2026 marks its 9th year
Won the corporate team competition for the 3rd time
ザ・プリンスギャラリー 東京紀尾井町 blends traditional Japanese crafts with contemporary art in a special exhibition marking the hotel’s 10th anniversary
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark the hotel’s 10th anniversary, ザ・プリンスギャラリー 東京紀尾井町 will hold “Crafting Tomorrow Produced by TANGENT × B-OWND,” a special art exhibition blending traditional Japanese crafts with contemporary art, from October 1 to November 13, 2026. Through a collaboration between TANGENT and B-OWND, works including Nambu ironware and Kawatsura lacquerware will be displayed in the 36F lobby.
Facts
A special art exhibition marking the hotel’s 10th anniversary
Runs from October 1 (Thursday) to November 13 (Friday), 2026
High-floor lobby (36F)
A hotel like a “gallery” about 180 meters above ground
The hotel marked its 10th anniversary on July 27, 2026 (Monday)
Born in Wakayama Prefecture in 985
Established “TANGENT” in London in 2015
Served as general director of the Wakayama Zone at the Kansai Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai
株式会社丹青社 launched the art and craft platform “B-OWND” in 2019
Gradually taking in a view, like the eye of God, extending to the farthest reaches of the universe, 10 billion light-years away
[Maruyanagi × Kato City × Yashiro High School] Promoting “Kirarimochi,” Kitaharima-grown glutinous barley, through industry-government-academia collaboration; exhibiting at “After Expo Hyogo Legacy Festa,” showcasing the charms of Hyogo
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社マルヤナギ小倉屋, in partnership with 兵庫県加東市, JAみのり, 兵庫県北播磨県民局 and 加東市もち麦活用協議会, will exhibit at “After Expo Hyogo Legacy Festa,” held in Chuo Ward, Kobe, on October 3 and 4, 2026, selling and promoting products made with “Kirarimochi,” glutinous barley grown in Kitaharima. The event will feature glutinous barley rice balls and sweets created by students from Yashiro High School.
Facts
Two days: October 3 (Saturday) and 4 (Sunday), 2026
Price: 200 yen each
Price: 80 yen and up each
In August 2023, it was added to the “Hyogo Agricultural, Livestock and Fishery Product Brand Strategy Designated Items” recognized by Hyogo Prefecture as “Kitaharima’s glutinous barley Kirarimochi”
In 2019, Kato City, JAみのり, producers, 兵庫県北播磨県民局 and Maruyanagi joined forces to establish 加東市もち麦活用協議会
[Event] Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture | “Autumn Market” and “Autumn Stroll Along the Book and Coffee Street” to be held!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
In Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture, 木次駅前秋の賑わい市実行委員会 and エリアプラットフォーム「ふらっと木次」設立準備会 will hold “Kisuki Station Front Autumn Market” and “Kisuki Hondori Book and Coffee Autumn Stroll” on October 12, 2026. The events will take place from the area in front of Kisuki Station to the Yokaichi district, with market stalls, a used-book fair and stage events planned.
Facts
To be held on October 12, 2026 (Monday, public holiday)
Misfits株式会社 will launch the Furusato Producer course in September 2026 to train professional salespeople specializing in farmers. The lead instructor is Yuki Yamada, who worked on branding Chateau Briand peaches and is representative of 株式会社X-Force.
Facts
Original1個：約15,000円
The 1st cohort started with 19 participants
“Extreme heat days” with maximum temperatures of 40°C or higher were recorded at a total of 36 locations
10 typhoons in August, the most in 60 years
Original1個200円だった桃が10,000円となり
Original前年比3～4割程度（1万円以上）の大幅な下落
The number fell by approximately 50,000 from the previous year
Core agricultural workers... 986,600 people
Half of the approximately 2.05 million in 2010
Those aged 30 or younger account for 5% of the total
More than 55% are aged 70 or older
Furusato Nozei donations have exceeded 1 trillion yen
Has worked on branding and product development for more than 30 businesses
A place where people, body, and new discoveries come together. MIYABI Community Event vol.1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MIYABI株式会社 will hold its first community event, centered on Pilates and themed around body, mind, and wellness, as part of its vision to make its new office “a place where people, body, and new discoveries come together.” Guest speaker Maki will join workshops and talk sessions. The event will be held free of charge near Jinnan, Shibuya, on October 22, with a capacity of 15 people. Registration runs from September 28 to October 16, 2026.
Facts
◆Date: 10/22 (Thursday), 14:00–16:00
◆Capacity: 15 people
◆Registration period: September 28, 2026 (Monday)–October 16, 2026 (Friday)
“RAM MOUNT & PROTO,” enabling device mounting anywhere, to exhibit at the 16th Agriculture Week
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プロト will exhibit at the 16th Agriculture WEEK, to be held at Makuhari Messe from October 7 to 9, 2026. Its booth will showcase RAM MOUNT device-mounting solutions, heated inner gloves, GEL-ZAB AGRI, and other products.
Facts
Booth No. 30-59
More than 5,000 items in the lineup
Just 0.8 mm thick
A trusted choice in the motorcycle industry for more than 15 years
Shock absorption 5–10 times greater than urethane foam
Hot, iced, or café au lait. One stick for every kind of day: the new TV commercial for “Blendy®” Stick Black, starring Nana Eikura, “One Stick, Consistently Delicious,” will begin airing on September 29 (Tuesday)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
味の素AGF will begin streaming a new TV commercial for “Blendy®” Stick Black, starring Nana Eikura, on September 29, 2026, and will air it nationwide starting October 1.
Facts
It has grown to approximately 3 times its size over the past 5 years
It has increased by approximately 40% over the past 3 years
From Christmas Eve Thursday to festive Friday and on into the weekend. Enjoy it longer than usual with the 4-day “Golden Christmas” sale at Fujiya Confectionery Stores
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fujiya Confectionery Stores will celebrate Christmas 2026 under the theme “Christmas Memories.” It has named the 4 days from December 24 to 27 “Golden Christmas” and will offer special cakes and limited-edition products. The varied lineup includes cakes with a reservation-only “FUJIYA Original ACEes Fork,” collaboration cakes with Puppet Sunsun, Tomica, and Cinnamoroll, and cakes for dogs and cats. Reservations through the online booking site “FUJIYA-Sweets.com” will open on October 1, 2026.
Facts
The 4-day “Golden Christmas”
Available by reservation only, in limited quantities, from December 20 (Sunday) to 25 (Friday), 2026
¥5,400, tax included
October 1, 2026 (Thursday), 11:00
Original2026年10月1日（木）～11月30日（月）
Available for 8 days only, from December 20 (Sunday) to 27 (Sunday), 2026
More convenience, more smiles around delicious treats. Packed with member-only perks, including special coupons and mobile ordering! Fujiya Confectionery Stores WEB membership service “PEKO SMILE CLUB (Peko-chan Smile Club)”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fujiya Confectionery Stores will launch its WEB membership service “PEKO SMILE CLUB” on September 29, 2026. It will offer benefits such as members-only coupons and mobile ordering, introduce mobile ordering at 5 participating stores, and accept Christmas cake reservations. Future plans include integration with LINE mini apps, a points program, and an original app.
Facts
Launching on September 29, 2026 (Tuesday)
Mobile ordering will be introduced at 5 participating stores
200-yen coupon
100-yen coupon
A 300-yen coupon
Rollout will begin at the following 5 stores on October 1, 2026 (Thursday)
Pickup is available from December 20 (Sunday) to 25 (Friday), 2026
“Moyaha, Neko.” surpasses 38,000 in cumulative sales and welcomes a calico cat! Meticulously designed to capture a cat’s markings in white, black, and orange, as well as its warmth
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
タンスのゲン株式会社 has added a new calico cat design to its “Moyaha, Neko.” series, which is designed to capture the warmth and feel of a cat. Cumulative sales of the series have exceeded 38,400, and it received an Excellence Award in the “Mail-Order and E-Commerce Hit Product Grand Prix 2025” in 2025.
Facts
Cumulative sales of the series have exceeded 38,400
[Central Tokyo 5 Wards Small and Mid-Sized Office Market Report, September 2026] Average asking rent per tsubo for small and mid-sized offices in central Tokyo’s 5 wards rises by as much as +18.8% — vacancy rates fall in 4 wards
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A report analyzing the small and mid-sized office market in Tokyo’s central 5 wards (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chuo, Chiyoda, and Minato) has been released based on data from OFFICE RESEARCH®, an office building information platform operated by 株式会社ボルテックス. As of August 2026, average asking rents per tsubo rose in all 5 wards, with Chiyoda posting the largest increase at +18.8%. Vacancy rates fell in 4 wards and rose only in Chiyoda; the main factor was large buildings, while supply and demand for small and mid-sized offices have instead tightened. An analysis of the same units also confirmed that the increase in average asking rents was mainly due to lower-priced spaces being leased and replaced, rather than rent hikes.
BioWare co-founder takes on the “biggest challenge of his life” — “Blind Enthusiasm,” Canada’s world-class spontaneously fermented beer, finally arrives in Japan for the first time!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
合同会社BC Beer Trading has signed an exclusive import and distribution agreement for Japan with Canadian spontaneously fermented beer brewery Blind Enthusiasm Brewing Company and is beginning a full-scale rollout of its premium spontaneously fermented beers in the Japanese market. The brewery was founded by Greg Zeschuk, co-founder of game company BioWare, and has won multiple medals at the World Beer Cup.
Ibaraki Prefecture × (株)ベンナーズ take on local challenges through a “new food resource” from Lake Kasumigaura! Unused fish turned into products through the “Fishl!” subscription service; exhibiting at Shin Ibaraki Meshi General Election 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Ibaraki Prefecture and 株式会社ベンナーズ are making American catfish, an invasive alien species in Lake Kasumigaura, into products using an underutilized fish resource through the “Fishl!” subscription service. Tastings will be offered at the “Shin Ibaraki Meshi General Election 2026,” which begins on October 10.
Facts
Japan’s 2nd-largest lake
Following about 1 year of discussions and product prototyping
3 days, from October 10 (Saturday) through 12 (Monday, a public holiday)
All 44 municipalities in Ibaraki Prefecture
Limited to 200 servings per day
Established: April 2018
82 new local gourmet dishes come together
Previous attendance: approximately 6万4千 visitors in total over 3 days
Hollywood Zakoshisho × Machiura Pink come up with a new SOD project!? New segment on “Kobayashi’s Bakobako Night” starts at 25:15 on Friday, October 2
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A new segment, “Zakoshi × Pink: We’ll Get This Project Approved,” in Daifuku Planning and Production’s late-night variety show “ケンコバのバコバコナイト” will launch on October 2, 2026. In the segment, Hollywood Zakoshisho and Machiura Pink pitch ideas to ソフト・オン・デマンド (SOD).
“FOOD SAMURAI” begins simultaneous streaming in Japan, France and the U.S. on Disney+ on 9/30! A documentary series following Michelin-starred chef Mori Sako, one of the French culinary world’s rising stars, on his first trip to Japan!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The documentary series “FOOD SAMURAI,” produced by French production and distribution company Cocinor, will begin streaming simultaneously in Japan, France and the United States on Disney+ on September 30. It follows Michelin-starred chef Mori Sako as he visits Japan’s food culture and master artisans.
A femcare supplement that supports women through life’s ups and downs: ❝BELLAETA (ベラエータ)❞ — now featuring “Rafuma,” attracting attention for its support of calmer days
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社イムダイン will launch a renewed version of its femcare supplement “ベラエータ,” now formulated with the new ingredient Rafuma leaf extract, on October 1, 2026.
An immersive museum from South Korea that has captivated the world, with more than 12 million visitors worldwide, arrives in Japan for the first time! Arte Museum Nagoya grand opens in Shinmaiko, Chita City, Aichi Prefecture, on Wednesday, November 18, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Arte Museum Nagoya, the first Japanese location of immersive museum Arte Museum by Seoul-based digital design company d'strict, will open in Chita City, Aichi Prefecture, on November 18, 2026. Ticket sales begin on September 29, 2026, with an early-bird campaign offering 15% off all ticket types.
Facts
Admission tickets go on sale online from 0:00 on Tuesday, September 29, 2026
All ticket types available at 15% off
The 9th exhibition venue worldwide
Featuring 17 types of immersive art spaces
Building area: approximately 5,000 m²
Companies mentioned：d'strict、Arte Museum Nagoya、Arte Museum、feverup.com
株式会社日本免税 has launched “regional co-creation tourism” in Kyoto Prefecture, announcing that the first participating location will be a store operated by 株式会社リカーマウンテン. Part of the tax-free service fees will be returned to the local sports team 京都ハンナリーズ.
[Doctor’s Bookshop] Buy a book through a conversation with a PhD holder. Event supporting bookstores and postdoctoral researchers to be held in Ebisu on Saturday, October 10
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人HR Buddy研究所 will hold “Doctor’s Bookshop” at TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE in Ebisu on October 10, 2026. Researchers with doctoral degrees will talk with visitors and help them choose books. The initiative aims to support postdoctoral researchers’ careers and expand bookstores’ sales channels.
Neiro, a read-aloud app that lets users listen to web novels with a different voice for each character, opens registration for its alpha version
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社GameHint has opened registration for the alpha version of Neiro, a read-aloud app that lets users listen to web novels with a different voice for each character. AI automatically identifies the speaker, and the app offers 18 standard voices and 31 premium voices.
[Free admission | Fukuoka, 10/8] AI, deep tech, and startups in Japan and Asia—more than 40 entrepreneurs, investors and companies at the forefront will gather to share insights over 1 day
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Cohh株式会社’s international business-matching event, RAMEN TECH Global Summit 2026, will be held in Fukuoka on Oct. 8, bringing together more than 40 speakers and 12 startups working at the forefront of fields such as AI and deep tech.
Facts
Oct. 8, 2026
11 sessions in total
8 overseas startups
12 companies will pitch
124 companies and organizations
Companies mentioned：Cohh株式会社、みずほフィナンシャルグループ、みずほ銀行、ANAホールディングス、住友生命保険、マエストロ、トライアルテクノロジー、チャリチャリ、LINEヤフーコミュニケーションズ、沖縄科学技術大学院大学、SMBC Edge、東京証券取引所、amondz lab、MCPアセット・マネジメント、三菱UFJ信託銀行、KKday、Startup Island TAIWAN、Liberaware Korea、BIG Impact、Preferred Networks、さくらインターネット、QBキャピタル、UntroD Capital Japan、角川アスキー総合研究所、ASCII STARTUP、CDIB Capital Innovation Advisors、Z Venture Capital、レッドクリフ、地域と人と未来、MTG Ventures、Sun Asterisk、ジェネシア・ベンチャーズ、movus technologies、Growthstock Pulse、KIBOW社会投資ファンド、リージョナルフィッシュ、ベータ・ベンチャーキャピタル、ハチドリソーラー、MOONRAKERS TECHNOLOGIES、アクセンチュア、KPMG FAS、IMM Investment Japan、Aiello、Biello
Coffee is moving from ‘drinking’ to ‘savoring with pairings.’ COLORS CAFE to exhibit for the first time at SCAJ2026 Coffee Village!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
COLORS CAFE, operated by COLORS株式会社, will exhibit for the first time at Coffee Village during SCAJ2026, to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from Oct. 14–17, 2026. The cafe will offer pairing experiences with lasagna and cheesecake, as well as collaborative coffee beans for sale.
Facts
Oct. 14 (Wed.)–17 (Sat.), 2026
Capital: 10 million yen
Price: Assortment of 4 cheesecakes + coffee bean set, 4,980 yen
A fall of sharp temperature swings. Dermatologist Makoto Kawashima explains why vitamin B is key to strengthening the skin barrier before the dry season!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey conducted by Galenic Japan株式会社 found that vitamin C ranked first among important skincare ingredients for skin damage. However, dermatologist Makoto Kawashima explains the importance of B vitamins, including niacinamide, for barrier care and recovery after cosmetic procedures.
VALANCE, which supports AI adoption by small and medium-sized businesses, expands into Kyoto Prefecture and partners with 株式会社三井田商事 to help local companies adopt AI
[Commemorating the 90th anniversary of 名古屋観光ホテル] An immersive overnight experience where guests savor dinner with all five senses and solve the mystery of an unsolved case. ‘Why Did the Candle Go Out?’ to be held in Tokai for the first time!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark the 90th anniversary of 名古屋観光ホテル, 株式会社謎組 will stage the overnight nonfiction game ‘Why Did the Candle Go Out?’ starting Nov. 16, 2026, for the first time in the Tokai region.
MAX PRODUCE establishes regional development division, tackling Kyushu’s ‘experience gap’ through three pillars: education, entertainment and PR
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社マックスプロデュース established a Local Revitalization Department effective September 1, 2026, and appointed Yuri Setoguchi as its director. The department will work to close Kyushu’s “experience gap” through 3 pillars: education, entertainment and PR.
MathWorks announces Release 2026b of MATLAB and Simulink
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MathWorks announced Release 2026b of MATLAB and Simulink. New products Simulink Variant Manager, Visual Inspection Toolbox and Polyspace Test Server have been added, and features have been enhanced in fields including aerospace, AI and embedded systems.
パネライ has launched 3 new Luminor models (PAM01710, PAM01711, PAM01714) that rework its 1990s case design in a 42mm size. Equipped with the P.980 caliber, they offer water resistance to 50 atmospheres and a 3-day power reserve.
The Everyone’s Menstrual Pain Project for TEEN will hold the “Menstrual Pain Conference,” a seminar and workshop for junior and senior high school teachers, in Nagoya
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare held the “Menstrual Pain Conference,” a seminar and workshop for junior and senior high school teachers, in Nagoya on August 19 as part of its ロキソニン brand initiative, “The Everyone’s Menstrual Pain Project for TEEN.” A total of 70 people attended and deepened their understanding of menstrual pain through a lecture by an obstetrician-gynecologist and discussions.
“Mugen,” the dining venue at Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki, ranked 6th in the U.S. Best Hotel Restaurant category of USA TODAY’s “10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Mugen,” the dining venue at the hotel Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki in Waikiki, Hawaii, owned by 興和株式会社, has been named 6th in the U.S. Best Hotel Restaurant category of USA TODAY’s “10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2026.”
[Event Report] The 12th Ending Industry Expo draws 12,522 visitors and closes to great success. The 2027 edition will be held in September; exhibitor applications now open
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
東京博善株式会社 announced that the 12th Ending Industry Expo, held in September 2026, drew 12,522 visitors and closed to great success. It has also decided to hold the 13th Ending Industry Expo on September 6 and 7 in fiscal 2027, and has begun accepting exhibitor applications.
WSSA-JAPAN promotes the growth of sport stacking through instructor training sessions
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人WSSA-JAPAN held an in-person training session in Chiba Prefecture in July 2026 to promote sport stacking in education, childcare and welfare settings, and began accepting applications in March 2027 for online instructor and judge training sessions.
[Fukuoka and Korea to become one giant bar scene] “TACHINOMIST11,” one of Japan’s largest standing-bar festivals, will bring together 113 venues from Japan and Korea!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Thinkingfor will hold “TACHINOMIST11,” one of Japan’s largest standing-bar festivals, in Fukuoka and Seoul, South Korea, from October 30 to November 15, 2026. A total of 113 venues from Japan and Korea will participate, with a collaboration with 福岡PARCO, which is set to close, and a stamp rally also planned.
株式会社T5, a partner for the “Logimeter” warehouse operations visualization tool, publishes a white paper distilling key points for adoption and implementation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社T5, a partner of 株式会社KURANDO, has published a white paper bringing together key points for adopting the “Logimeter” warehouse operations visualization tool and establishing it in day-to-day operations.
Facts
Implemented at more than 1,000 locations nationwide
Ongoing support through corporate hometown tax donations: industry-government-academia collaboration among Tanaka Iron Works, Tsuchiura City and 事業構想大学院大学—aiming to realize Tsuchiura City’s “locally circular zero-carbon city,” from concept to implementation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
田中鉄工株式会社 supported an industry-government-academia collaboration project through corporate hometown tax donations to help realize a “locally circular zero-carbon city” in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki Prefecture. A tax-donation appreciation certificate presentation ceremony was held on September 25, 2026.
New corporate training program: Launch of a “Workshop to Analyze Integrated Reports and Strengthen Customer Understanding and Proposal Skills”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シェダル has launched a corporate training program drawing on its know-how from the popular “Workshop on Reading Integrated Reports” for university students. The training aims to help participants understand customers’ management challenges and strengthen their proposal skills by analyzing integrated reports. Support for small and medium-sized businesses in preparing reports and free workshops for universities are also continuing.
Side-job participation among people in their 20s–40s reaches 46.7%, up 7.4 percentage points from the previous survey; share earning at least ¥300,000 a month from side jobs exceeds 19% for the first time in about 3 years, signaling a shift in the side-job market from quantity to quality
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to an August 2026 survey conducted by 株式会社lotsful, the side-job participation rate among people in their 20s–40s rose to 46.7%, while the share earning more than ¥300,000 a month from side jobs exceeded 19% for the first time in about 3 years. The survey also found that most people with side-job experience want others to be considerate about contacting them outside working hours.
Facts
Original直近半年の副業実施率は46.7%
Up 7.4 points from the previous survey
Original今後半年の副業意向は53.9%
64.9% of people with side jobs respond immediately even outside working hours
83.5% of people with side jobs want consideration for contact outside working hours
【Meet one of only 8 chestnut farmers in Japan】First-ever appearance at 伊勢丹新宿店. Selling chestnut yokan made with the “one burr, one fruit” method at “7 Days of Chestnut Indulgence,” an event supporting Japanese chestnut producers〈菓匠風月〉
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Ibaraki Prefecture confectionery shop 菓匠風月（株式会社常陸風月堂）will make its first appearance at 伊勢丹新宿店 from October 7, 2026, to sell yokan made with rare “Iinuma chestnuts.” As part of an initiative to support producers, the head of the 飯沼栗組合 will also attend and introduce the value of GI-registered chestnuts grown using the one-burr, one-fruit method, as well as challenges facing the production area.
Facts
There are only 8 chestnut farming households in Japan
Just hold up your smartphone to complete check-in! Animal hospital platform “Wonder” launches new “Digital Patient Card” feature, aiming to eliminate reception workload
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワンダーテクノロジーズ has launched “Digital Patient Card,” a new feature for its animal hospital platform “Wonder” that enables users to present patient cards and manage check-ins on LINE. The feature reduces the workload associated with paper and plastic cards and cuts wait times with unmanned check-in by simply scanning a QR code.
Facts
In the 3 and a half years since its launch
More than 500 animal hospitals nationwide
Both customer satisfaction and retention rates stand at 99%
The “伝え方が9割” series surpasses 2.6 million copies worldwide—As AI spreads, attention grows around “relationships of trust that only people can build”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Worldwide sales of Keiichi Sasaki’s “伝え方が9割” book series have surpassed 2.6 million copies, as the spread of AI draws growing attention to “relationships of trust that only people can build.” 株式会社ウゴカス offers lectures and online courses.
The sound of waves, rising steam, and a star-filled sky—a secluded Japanese-style villa welcoming up to 14 guests has opened deep in a bamboo grove in Minamiboso
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社PIYORESORT has opened “蒼望楼-根本海岸別邸,” an entire-rental villa in Minamiboso, Chiba Prefecture, that can accommodate up to 14 guests.
【ハハロル survey on relationships and social frailty among people aged 50 and over】A good relationship with a romantic partner may help prevent social frailty. More than 80% report positive effects on motivation in daily life, grooming, health awareness, and more
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ハハロル, operated by 超楽長寿株式会社, conducted an awareness survey of 800 single men and women aged 50 and over. The findings suggest that a good relationship with a romantic partner may help prevent social frailty. People with partners report less loneliness, and more than 80% say their relationships positively affect their motivation in daily life and health awareness. The survey also found that dating and matchmaking can encourage greater attention to grooming and willingness to go out, while people seeking new connections strongly value shared hobbies and interests.
About the winning cases for the 20th JIIMA Best Practice Awards
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益社団法人日本文書情報マネジメント協会（JIIMA） announced that フェリカネットワークス株式会社 received an Excellence Award and 三耐保温株式会社 received an Encouragement Award as winners of the 20th JIIMA Best Practice Awards.
Facts
For more than 65 years
Since 2007 (Heisei 19)
The 20th JIIMA Best Practice Awards
The following 2 cases
Scheduled to begin on Wednesday, Nov. 11
Established in 1958 as 日本マイクロ写真協会
After changing its name to 社団法人日本画像情報マネジメント協会 in 1995
Received public-interest corporation certification from 内閣府 in 2013
ユース・アメリカ・グランプリ（YAGP） signs a partnership, launching an initiative to support future ballet dancers together with longtime London ballet shoe maker フリード・オブ・ロンドン
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
チャコット株式会社 has signed a partnership for the 2026-2027 season with the world’s largest pre-professional ballet competition, ユース・アメリカ・グランプリ（YAGP）, together with London ballet shoe maker フリード・オブ・ロンドン.
The second collaborative housing project from リアークスファインド’s renovation brand “cocomore” and Yamazaki Jitsugyo’s “tower” gets underway
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The second collaborative housing project between 株式会社リアークスファインド’s renovation brand “cocomore” and Yamazaki Jitsugyo’s “tower” has begun in Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture. Focusing on life for families raising children, the project is designed around the theme “A life with fewer parenting hassles,” integrating circulation routes and storage. Completion is scheduled for mid-October 2026.
Facts
Original専有面積：約97㎡
Layout: 4LDK
Scheduled completion: mid-October 2026
Analyzes residents’ movements using 150 guideline items
Sales for the fiscal year ending June 2026 reached a record high of ¥11.28 billion
“A little closer to your tools.” A new brand from a toolmaker with more than 75 years in business: “toIRO” launches a mini rotary tool designed to fit into everyday life on Makuake.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社キソパワーツール, a small-tool maker with a history spanning more than 75 years, has launched “toIRO,” a new brand with designs that fit into everyday life, and opened preorders for its mini rotary tool on Makuake. The project surpassed ¥1 million in 1 hour and ¥2.8 million on its first day.
Facts
More than 75 years in business
Starting Sept. 2, 2026
In just 1 hour
¥1 million in total crowdfunding support
Surpassed ¥2.8 million
Continuing to manufacture for more than 30 years
Creating 20 models
More than 1.2 million units have been brought to market to date
Celebrating 80 years in business, longtime packaging supplier 富士エス産業, which has produced packaging for some of Japan’s best-known confections, launches its first corporate website
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
有限会社富士エス産業, a packaging materials manufacturer marking 80 years in business, has launched its first corporate website.
株式会社マーク launches 3 new services to help businesses communicate
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社マーク announced the launch in September 2026 of 3 new services to help businesses communicate: “Expo Base MARKETING,” “Stage Base LIVE” and “Pod Base MEDIA.”
株式会社Ocean's tax exemption system, compliant with the new tax exemption system (refund method) taking effect on November 1, 2026, is now available.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ONE and ONLY PARTNERS株式会社 has begun sales support for 株式会社Ocean's tax exemption system, which is compliant with the new tax exemption system (refund method) taking effect on November 1, 2026.
Facts
Nov. 1, 2026
Original初期費用・月額費用0円
Companies mentioned：ONE and ONLY PARTNERS株式会社、株式会社Ocean
Threadwork launches Chrome extension for Chatwork with threaded view and channel creation features
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スレッドワーク株式会社 has launched “スレッドワーク,” a Chrome extension for Chatwork. It adds threaded views and channel functionality, with no need for other users to install it. The service received 10 inquiries within 3 days of opening preregistration.
Facts
スレッドワーク works even if the other party has not installed the extension.
Within 3 days of opening preregistration at the end of August 2026, the service received 10 inquiries, including from major advertising agencies and publicly listed companies.
Originalベーシックプランは年払い1ヶ月あたり500円、月払い600円。
OriginalAIプランは年払い1ヶ月あたり700円、月払い840円。
スレッドワーク offers a 14-day free trial.
Originalスレッドワーク株式会社は2026年9月14日設立。
スレッドワーク has filed a patent application (Japanese Patent Application No. 2026-193200).
おはなリハ ケアマネステーション, operated by オハナ・リハ株式会社, has received the highest honor, the Prime Minister’s Award, in the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s “FY Reiwa 8 Prime Minister’s Award and Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare’s Award for Creating a Workplace Environment That Is Conducive to Care Workers.” The facility combined greater operational efficiency with improved working conditions through the adoption of technologies such as voice-input AI and RPA, as well as improvements to employee benefits.
Facts
Reiwa 8 fiscal year
August 31, 2026
1 recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award
5 recipients of the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare’s Award for Excellence
105 recipients of the same award’s encouragement prize
“We want to adopt AI, but are worried about security.” 株式会社SEIGETSU launches integrated support service for businesses with these concerns
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社SEIGETSU has launched technical advisory and on-demand consultation services covering AI adoption, cybersecurity measures, English-language operations and overseas support.
Facts
The initial consultation is free for 60 minutes
Has more than 11 years of experience working as an engineer overseas
“花Lab.Humor,” a self-photo studio for taking pictures with flowers, launches in Yokohama Motomachi; monitor recruitment receives 187 applications in just 1 day
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The flower brand “花Lab,” operated by 株式会社オールドマンノート, has launched “花Lab.Humor,” a self-photo studio in Yokohama Motomachi featuring floral arrangements by a florist. The monitor recruitment received 187 applications in 1 day.
Facts
187 applications in 1 day
Two studios with different atmospheres are available
AI call center “SolitCall（ソリットコール）” launches for rental property management companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ソリットリンク has launched “SolitCall,” an AI call center for rental property management companies. It listens to tenant inquiries in natural conversation and helps provide guidance based on management company rules and coordinate appointment dates with contractors. It also integrates with the rental management system “Solit” to prepare draft estimates and reports. Integration with existing systems such as Salesforce and kintone is also supported, and a free trial is available for a limited period.
SB OAI Japan announced that it will relocate its headquarters on October 1, 2026, to 世界貿易センタービルディング南館 in Hamamatsucho, Minato Ward, Tokyo, and has asked people to refrain from sending congratulatory flowers or gifts.
Sales management SaaS “リレーションログ” launches, with no manual data entry: Talk, and it’s logged. Forget, and it alerts you.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社リレーションベース officially launched “リレーションログ,” a sales management SaaS for corporate and partner sales, on September 29, 2026. The service uses AI to reduce the burden of data entry and provides notifications about stalled deals and changes in stakeholders based on recorded information.
A new attraction where visitors can interact with animals opens in Sawara, Katori City’s “Little Edo,” which welcomes approximately 6.55 million tourists a year: 下総生物園 grand opening
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The hands-on animal park 下総生物園 will hold its grand opening on October 4, 2026, in Sawara, Katori City, Chiba Prefecture. The attraction aims to become a place for local learning, offering exhibits featuring approximately 100 species and hands-on experiences in an area that welcomes approximately 6.55 million tourists a year.
Two executives who were once ranked No. 1 nationwide in franchising appear together! Soul Connection representative Iida Takashi to moderate 3 special lectures on real estate DX
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ソウルコネクション株式会社 will exhibit at the Real Estate DX EXPO at “産業DX総合展2026,” to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from September 30 to October 2, 2026, and will host 3 special lectures moderated by its Representative Director, Iida Takashi. Speakers will include 2 executives who achieved the No. 1 national sales ranking in the センチュリー21グループ and ハウスドゥグループ, as well as representatives from 大和ハウス工業 and 住宅新報.
“OPRI Business Strategy and HR Alignment Score,” an index measuring the alignment of business strategy and human resources: the median score among 3,684 companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime, Standard and Growth markets was 24.5 out of 100—every annual securities report scored across 17 HR areas
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Institute for Comprehensive Organizational and Human Resources Research announced its Business Strategy and HR Alignment Score, based on assessments of the annual securities reports of 3,684 companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime, Standard and Growth markets. The median was 24.5 points, and 57% of listed companies were found unable to explain how their HR initiatives align with their business strategies.
Facts
Even the highest-scoring company received only 63.7 points
All 8 types of oden, including the signature shumai dumpling oden, will be half price in an all-you-can-eat offer. October promotion exclusively at おでんと焼き魚 あおちょ ほぼ新宿店
About 5 minutes by car from Kouri Island. Turning Agu pork and more than 10 kinds of island vegetables into a “feast experience.” Pork cutlet specialty restaurant “Ryukyu Babe” opens on Yagaji Island, Okinawa
[Visual impairment × crossing Japan] Hawaii-based creator who walked 1,460 km takes on a solo walking journey this year to connect the two Izumo Taisha shrines in Hawaii and Japan
Companies mentioned：ブラインド・ジャパン・プロジェクト事務局、モベル・コミュニケーションズ・リミテッド、モバル、Mobal、ユナイテッドネコアライアンス、United Neko Alliance、Outdoor Vitals、JapanKyo、Wasabi Magazine、Hawaii Association of the Blind、ハワイ視覚障害者協会、関西外国語大学、JETプログラム、神戸市立盲学校、ハワイ大学マノア校
Making sense of “I can’t get through to my child” through developmental psychology. An online 1Day seminar to help parents and children understand each other
Top prize selected from 3,349 haiku: “A small hand / I, too, helped someone”—results announced for the 2nd AED Haiku Contest
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クオリティー announced the results of its 2nd AED Senryu Contest. From 3,349 poems, it selected 1 Grand Prize winner, 5 Excellence Award winners and 10 Honorable Mentions. The Grand Prize went to “Small hands—I could help someone, too,” by Keion-bu, a sixth-grade student with experience using an AED.
[Proof-of-Concept Report] Humanoid robot takes to the farm: Detects and grasps okra in an outdoor field after a 70-day development period
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Orboh and 株式会社トヨタ車体研究所 conducted an outdoor harvesting proof of concept at an okra farm in Kagoshima Prefecture using a Unitree G1 humanoid robot. After a 70-day development period, the robot was able to detect and grasp the okra.
Facts
From June to September 2026
A grasping success rate of 16 out of 20 attempts in an indoor simulated environment
There are 1.036 million core agricultural workers at individually operated farms
The average age is 67.7
Those aged 65 and over account for 69.6%
Jetson Orin 64GB
Companies mentioned：株式会社Orboh、株式会社トヨタ車体研究所、農林水産省、Unitree、Hugging Face
[Sendai・Uesugi] Additional sessions added due to popular demand! Free cello trial and mini concert to be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, a public holiday
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
杜音株式会社 will hold an additional free cello trial and mini concert in Sendai on October 12, 2026. It has also extended the free cello trial lesson period through the 31st of the same month.
Facts
Monday, October 12, 2026 (national holiday)
5 participants per session
1 session, 60 minutes
Through October 31, 2026
Normally 2,750 yen, tax included
1 30-minute session, 2 times per month / 11,000 yen (tax included)
Japanese jewelry brand “HOALL” launched on September 26, 2026. Founder Takumi Shimabata handles every step, from design to production, at an atelier on Lake Biwa. The brand has opened its official e-commerce site and accepts orders from Japan and 8 countries around the world.
Facts
Launching on September 26, 2026
Original1人の職人がデザインから制作まで一貫して手がける
We accept orders from 8 countries around the world
Egg Blossom \198,000 and up
Green Flash \235,000 and up
SUN Dia(YG) \210,100 and up
PESCA(YG) \246,400 and up
In 2025, creative inspiration and
Support for Thailand scheduled to begin in October 2026
“OrderRail,” a service that assists with entering orders from fax and email order forms, opens for free trials; seeks 3 companies for a paid early-access pilot
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
合同会社カゾシステム has opened a free trial of “OrderRail,” a cloud service that assists with entering orders from fax and email order forms, and is seeking 3 companies for its early-access pilot.
Okayama mental health clinic HIKARI CLINIC launches ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) centered on “preparation, experience and integration”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
医療法人啓光会 HIKARI CLINIC will begin offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for depression from 2026/9. The program is based on a three-stage model of “preparation, experience and integration,” and the clinic will conduct an observational study in collaboration with 岡山サイケデリック精神医療研究会 (OIPI).
Facts
Starting in September 2026
1–2-hour preparatory interview
1.5–2 hours on site
At least 60 minutes of observation on site
Initial consultation and suitability assessment: 16,500 yen
Plan A (single session): 148,500 yen
Plan B (3 sessions): 297,000 yen
Plan C (6 sessions), standard program: 528,000 yen
“The price was completely different from what I saw online”: Wildlife removal inquiries have increased 2.7 times in 5 years. National map “Gaiju Gaichu Kujo Match” lets consumers compare estimated costs before calling a provider
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
合同会社生活ドクター has launched “Gaiju Gaichu Kujo Match,” a national map for comparing prices, in response to wildlife removal inquiries increasing 2.7 times in 5 years.
Facts
It is 2.7 times higher than 5 years ago
There were 2,290 cases in fiscal 2023 alone
The number has risen to 552 cases
A review of the websites of 1,010 companies nationwide under the same conditions found that
Search across 5,521 tattoo-friendly facilities, 390 studios and 230 tattoo artists in Japanese and English. “Tattoo Japan” revamped as a wiki-style platform with user-updated listings
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Liviro has completely revamped “Tattoo Japan,” a platform for searching tattoo-friendly facilities, studios and tattoo artists. The number of listed facilities has increased from about 1,000 to 5,521, and users can now update information in a wiki-style format.
Facts
390 studios
230 tattoo artists
The number of international visitors to Japan reached 42.68 million
Spending by international visitors to Japan: ¥9.4549 trillion
Facility information has been updated 847 times in total
Membership has exceeded 2,800
Companies mentioned：株式会社Liviro、Tattoo Japan、三井不動産ホテルマネジメント、アルペンブリックリゾート、箱根小涌園ユネッサン、御殿場プレミアム・アウトレット、北日本新聞、Pew Research Center、McCrindle、YouGov、Dalia Research、韓国保健福祉部、観光庁、厚生労働省
Camera-free AI sensor “MiraWatch Home” for keeping an eye on family members living apart launches on Makuake
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Linkware株式会社 will begin presales of “MiraWatch Home,” an AI sensor that uses millimeter-wave radar to check on family members without using a camera, on crowdfunding site “Makuake” starting September 29, 2026.
“P-UP XTERA TERAHERTZ” brand site for hair and beauty salons completely revamped — product information for hair dryers, hair irons and hairbrushes organized by category
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
大阪ブラシ株式会社 has completely revamped the brand site for its “P-UP XTERA TERAHERTZ” product line for hair and beauty salons, organizing information on hair dryers, hair irons and hairbrushes by category.
januka unveils new “HOLLOW” collection, bringing a “slit” inspired by hollow construction into its designs
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Jewelry brand januka unveiled its new “HOLLOW” collection for fall 2026, combining volume and lightness through hollow construction. An exhibition will be held at its Aoyama flagship store starting October 7, with a pop-up shop also opening at 伊勢丹新宿店.
Creative agency PUSH Japan appoints 岡本あいめ as president, strengthening leadership to expand business in Japan and overseas
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Creative agency PUSH Japan announced that 岡本あいめ has been appointed president and founder スンダ・マイク has become global managing partner. PUSH Japan ranked highest among Japan-based companies in Campaign Asia in 2025 and aims to expand its business in Japan and overseas.
Facts
In 2025
Over these 6 years
In 2021
Since joining 5 years ago
Companies mentioned：PUSH Japan、PUSH、Campaign Asia、ナイキ ジョーダン、Travis Scott
株式会社アドウィズ (Representative: 高田晃典) codifies and publishes educational principles for Web design school “PIXLA ” — 4 principles, including “no instruction based on subcontracting,” unchanged since the school opened
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アドウィズ has codified and published the educational principles of Web design school “PIXLA.” In response to the narrowing information gap as AI becomes more widespread, it outlined 4 principles, including not providing instruction based on subcontracting or asking students to promote the school.