SSFF & ASIA announces lineup and ticket sales for its 2026 Autumn International Short Film Festival! More than 50 works, including Grand Prix winners in contention for the next Academy Awards; horror and thriller showcases, a women directors’ program, and a market experience from a buyer’s perspective
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The lineup and ticket sales have been announced for “SSFF & ASIA 2026 Autumn,” one of Asia’s largest international short film festivals, recognized by the Academy Awards in the United States. The program will feature Grand Prix winners and more than 50 works in contention for Academy Awards, as well as horror and thriller and women directors’ showcases, a program on the use of generative AI, and market screenings for buyers.
Haru’s cover illustration features in the November 2026 issue of ihr HertZ, on sale today, 9/30!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The November 2026 issue of ihr HertZ goes on sale September 30, featuring a cover illustration by Haru. It includes a stellar lineup, interviews and special features.
Hacobu announces logistics AI platform “Hacobu X,” aiming to become a logistics AI infrastructure company that optimizes transportation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Hacobu announced its logistics AI platform “Hacobu X” and said it is evolving into a logistics AI infrastructure company that optimizes transportation. The company aims to optimize logistics as a whole through the MOVO series and systems integration.
Facts
More than 1,100 client companies
More than 47,000 business locations using the service
A transportation capacity shortfall of up to about 25%
【Earth NASA Backpack®】Free catalog requests now open for students entering school in the 2028 academic year
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CHIKYU株式会社 has begun accepting free requests for a catalog featuring its latest backpack series for students entering school in the 2028 academic year.
Inaba Pet Food launches “CIAO Kaoritatsu,” a new canned food for cats!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Inaba Pet Food has launched “CIAO Kaoritatsu,” a new series of canned food for cats comprising 3 products. The concept is that the aroma rises as soon as the can is opened, thanks to 7 types of dashi ingredients.
Tiger Corporation to exhibit for the first time at “Regenerative Medicine JAPAN.” The company will showcase its vacuum-insulated Cell Pod medical specimen transport container, supporting the last mile of regenerative medicine cell transport
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tiger Corporation will make its first appearance at “Regenerative Medicine JAPAN,” to be held in October 2026, exhibiting the vacuum-insulated Cell Pod medical specimen transport container it co-developed with 株式会社Gaudi Clinical.
【Survey of 200 international visitors to Japan in Shinjuku and Kabukicho on attitudes toward “Wagyu”】Findings show they look for “quality” and a “dining experience” in Wagyu
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社TSTエンタテイメント surveyed 208 international visitors to Japan about Wagyu. A total of 72.1% said they would consider trying it, and the image of Wagyu as “the highest-quality branded beef” was found to be firmly established. Steak was the most anticipated dish, while “meat quality and grade” was the top consideration when choosing a restaurant. More than half said they used Google Maps to learn about Wagyu.
Facts
208 international visitors to Japan
72.1% answered “Yes”
The highest figure, at 43.3%
The result was 50.5%, accounting for more than half
Topped the list at 46.2%
Was the most common response, at 51.9%
Companies mentioned：株式会社TSTエンタテイメント、東急歌舞伎町タワー、youknowme、BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel、HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL HOTEL、ZEROTOKYO、東急株式会社、株式会社ソニー・ミュージックエンタテインメント、Google Maps、Tabelog
Dress up and explore the Aoi district! “葵マチアージュ2026” to be held Saturday, October 31
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Aoi District Area Management Council will hold “葵マチアージュ2026,” a community event featuring a costumed tour, puzzle-solving and hands-on activities, on October 31, 2026.
[YSL BEAUTY] First installment of the 2026 holiday collection. A limited-edition collection inspired by “Sparkling Cherry” arrives, featuring popular Couture Mini Clutch, Gloss Plumper and blush products!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本ロレアル株式会社 announced the first installment of YSL BEAUTY’s 2026 holiday collection, featuring limited-edition items under the “YSL HOLIDAY PRIVATE PARTY” theme. The collection includes Couture Mini Clutch, Loveshine Gloss Plumper, Make Me Blush powder and an advent calendar, all themed around Sparkling Cherry. They will be available nationwide in limited quantities starting in late October.
Craif to exhibit at the Cabinet Office startup booth and speak at a seminar at “BioJapan 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Biotech AI startup Craif株式会社 will exhibit at the Cabinet Office startup booth at “BioJapan 2026,” held at Pacifico Yokohama from October 7 to 9, 2026. On October 9, COO Miga Mizunuma will speak at a seminar.
Facts
October 7 (Wed.)–9 (Fri.), 2026
Capital: 100 million yen
Established: May 2018
Companies mentioned：Craif株式会社、Craif、株式会社JTBコミュニケーションデザイン、大阪大学、株式会社イクスフォレスト セラピューティクス、Cumulus Neuroscience Limited、Shionogi B.V.、National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)
Fall seasonal treats arriving one after another at Fujiya’s specialty doughnut shop: new autumn items from “Peko-chan milky doughnuts”! A collaboration with “Minions” and Halloween products are also coming
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Fujiya’s specialty doughnut shop “Peko-chan milky doughnuts” will release seasonal products in October 2026, including a collaboration with Minions and Halloween-themed items.
Facts
¥286 (tax included)
¥231 (tax included)
¥520 each (tax included)
On sale sequentially starting Thursday, October 1, 2026
On sale sequentially starting Friday, October 9, 2026
Companies mentioned：株式会社不二家、Universal Studios Licensing LLC、ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ライセンシング LLC、Universal City Studios LLC
Enjoy the flavors of autumn in Fukushima over 2 days at the “Seafood Sanma Festival at Roadside Station Fukushima”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社スペースワン, commissioned by 東京電力ホールディングス株式会社, will hold the “Seafood Sanma Festival at Roadside Station Fukushima.” The event will feature stalls and food trucks serving Fukushima-grown ingredients, limited sales of Pacific saury, local cooking experiences, a mini stage and more.
少数株ドットコム’s Yutaka Yamanaka discusses the 2026 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences [Selection Committee ④]: Peter Fredriksson, a labor economist who reexamined “education and immigration” using administrative data
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
少数株ドットコム株式会社 will hold a special webinar in early October 2026 featuring Peter Fredriksson, a member of the 2026 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences selection committee. Representative Yutaka Yamanaka will explain Fredriksson’s research in labor and education economics using administrative data, as well as his role in the selection process.
Facts
Wages at ages 27–42
(2013)
Original1980〜90年代前半の難民
Research (2003)
Demonstrates this (2018)
The 2021 Card-Angrist-Imbens
Shareholder proposals on 15 agenda items
Joined HOYA in 2010
Individual disclosure of executive compensation (just over 45% in favor)
Expansion of the word limit for explanations of shareholder proposals (4,000 characters)
Original2011年にはハーバード大学法科大学院で講演し
Gained support in the 40% range
Including winning a court ruling in 2025
More than 1,000 publicly listed companies worldwide
[Technology Trends Report] Can AI support hairdressers’ “experience and intuition”? A survey of domestic patent trends in beauty × AI — MyTokkyo.Ai
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リーガルテック株式会社 used the patent research platform “MyTokkyo.Ai” to examine AI technologies and domestic patent trends in the beauty and hair salon industry. The findings identified applications related to hairstyle recommendations and hair and scalp analysis, while the field of digitizing hairdressers’ experience and skills remained limited.
Facts
Based on 20 search queries
Filed in 2004
Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2026-072964
Rapper RITO, born in Nagoya and raised in Katsushika, with roots in Japan and the Philippines, to release new single “ROUTE318” on September 30. A powerful track imbued with downtown spirit, marking Route 318 as “his own road”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Rapper RITO will release new single “ROUTE318” on September 30, 2026. The producer is K LARK a.k.a. KOTA. RITO also performed the track at Masato Hayashi’s live after-party and plans to release an album before the end of the year.
Facts
Sept. 30, 2026
September 23
1995
2023
April 2026
June 26, 2026
Companies mentioned：株式会社BUZZ GROUP、株式会社 BUZZ FACTORY、Beatlab Records
“Child-Rearing DX” expands its “Maternal Health Checkup Service” in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
母子モ株式会社 has expanded the “Maternal Health Checkup Service” within “Child-Rearing DX” for Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, and began digitizing postpartum checkup subsidy vouchers and medical questionnaires on October 1.
“There’s a world’s-cutest cat for every cat that’s cared for”: Tanka essay collection ‘I Still Want to Stay in a House with a Cat’ to go on sale September 30
MAXWIN releases carrot-shaped cushion pillow “K-SC3-C,” which simply attaches to a seat belt to reduce neck strain when children doze off
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Car accessories brand MAXWIN, operated by 昌騰有限会社, has released “K-SC3-C,” a carrot-shaped cushion pillow that attaches to a seat belt to reduce neck strain when children doze off.
【ココモーラ】Associate Professor Hideaki Sakawa of Nagoya City University joins the securities section!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ココモーラ has strengthened its review framework for the securities section, with Associate Professor Hideaki Sakawa of Nagoya City University joining as a new reviewer. In an interview, Associate Professor Sakawa explained investment decisions based on financial information.
【October 30】Seminar for businesses! <Hiring processes to prevent mismatches / Systems to increase applications from seniors> Businesses and organizations invited to participate!
【Goal achieved】#Breakthrough — Reclaiming the top division by a landslide, and building a Kyoto University we can always be proud of for its strength: project concludes after reaching its goal
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スポチュニティ株式会社 announced that the crowdfunding project “#Breakthrough” by 京都大学女子ラクロス部 has concluded after reaching its target of 2,420,500 yen (484.1% of the goal). The funds are expected to go toward external coaching costs and tournament participation fees.
New sportswear from “TIGORA by BEAMS DESIGN”; new label “BEAMS DESIGN RUNNING FORCES” also launches. Functional apparel to bring comfort to fall sports activities
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルペン has released the 2026 AUTUMN collection from its sportswear brand “TIGORA by BEAMS DESIGN” and added the new label “BEAMS DESIGN RUNNING FORCES” to its running category.
Facts
2026 AUTUMN collection
Launched in 2019
5,500 yen (tax included)
6,930 yen (tax included)
7,920 yen (tax included)
12,100 yen (tax included)
3,999 yen (tax included)
4,999 yen (tax included)
4,499 yen (tax included)
8,999 yen (tax included)
8,499 yen (tax included)
Companies mentioned：株式会社アルペン、TIGORA、BEAMS DESIGN、TIGORA by BEAMS DESIGN、BEAMS DESIGN RUNNING FORCES、スポーツデポ、アルペン、株式会社ビームス
To mark its 10th anniversary, 県立広島大学’s graduate school of business management (HBMS) will begin broadcasting a radio program on 広島FM starting October 3.
Bringing 県立広島大学’s aquaponics research to the community: “Catfish and the Future of Eco-Farming Experience Festival” to be held in 三次市 on October 4
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
三次イノベーション会議 will hold the “Catfish and the Future of Eco-Farming Experience Festival” in 三次市 on October 4 to introduce 県立広島大学’s aquaponics research to the community.
Valuence INFINITIES to hold a special workshop in Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture, commemorating its partnership with 田辺工業株式会社!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The professional dance team Valuence INFINITIES, operated by バリュエンスジャパン株式会社, will hold a special workshop on October 31, 2026, at Kenshin Park Budokan in Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture, to mark its partnership with partner company 田辺工業株式会社.
Yutaka Matsushige meets a new character played by Hiro Shimono at an art museum! At Home's new commercial, “At Home Gallery: The House of Destiny,” begins airing nationwide on Saturday, October 3, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アットホーム株式会社 announced that its new commercial, “At Home Gallery: The House of Destiny,” featuring Yutaka Matsushige, will begin airing nationwide on October 3, 2026.
Facts
Starting Saturday, October 3, 2026
Entering his 5th year in the role
(15 seconds)
10 pairs of glasses he brought
Since 1996
Companies mentioned：アットホーム株式会社、DreamWorks Distribution Limited、博報堂、onehappy、CHAMILA、足立区生物館、Prime Video
Limited-time 10% increase※! Enjoy the delicious taste of Japanese ingredients with “Crispy Snack Seaweed” Kanro “Seaweed Sandwich-Baked Chips: Plum Flavor / Wasabi Flavor” to launch Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カンロ株式会社 will launch its JAPAN PREMIUM series “Seaweed Sandwich-Baked Chips: Plum Flavor / Wasabi Flavor” with a limited-time 10% increase starting October 6, 2026.
“楽天ペイ” launches “Get great deals on accommodations and shopping in Sapporo! Up to 20% back campaign” in Sapporo, Hokkaido
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
楽天ペイメント will run a campaign offering up to 22.5% back in points from October 1 to November 30, 2026, in Sapporo, Hokkaido, combining stays booked through “楽天トラベル” with payments via “楽天ペイ”.
Facts
Up to 20% of the purchase amount will be returned in “Rakuten Points”
[Rolling out from October 2] Savor the flavors of fall in Kobe! Limited-time menu featuring sweet potatoes, chestnuts and saury arrives at “39days KOBE,” a café and restaurant in “Kobe Meriken Park”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
39days KOBE in Kobe, operated by G LION GROUP, will begin offering a limited-time menu featuring autumn flavors on October 2.
A long-awaited “slim” option joins the No.1※1 adult tape-style diaper series: New launch of “Attento Slim Tape-Style Diaper to Prevent Back and Side Leakage”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
大王製紙 will launch a new product in its “Attento” adult tape-style diaper series, “Attento Slim Tape-Style Diaper to Prevent Back and Side Leakage,” on October 21, 2026. It is designed to reduce bulk when used with nighttime pads.
Facts
No.1 in sales※1
Available nationwide starting October 21, 2026 (Wed.)
“LegalOn” streamlines contract review and management through integration with SharePoint and OneDrive
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社LegalOn Technologies has launched new integration features with Microsoft SharePoint and OneDrive for its Professional AI for Legal “LegalOn.” Users can now import contract files directly from cloud storage to streamline review and management.
Facts
More than 9,000 companies as of the end of July 2026
Launch of a “public-private collaborative framework” aimed at tracking proceeds from special fraud cases and other purposes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ソニー銀行 has signed an agreement with 警察庁 concerning a “public-private collaborative framework” aimed at tracking proceeds from special fraud cases and other purposes, and will launch operations on October 1, 2026.
Kohei Shoji appears on the cover and in a feature! November issue of “Fujingaho,” on sale October 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ハースト婦人画報社 will release the November 2026 issue of Fujingaho, a lifestyle magazine first published in 1905, on October 1. Actor Kohei Shoji appears on the cover and in a feature, which includes a photo shoot at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT) and a special feature on works in the museum’s collection. The issue also features shoe-and-bag fashion, frontier gastronomy, afternoon tea, J-beauty and a new serialized feature on puppet theater.
“Danner” × “LAND CRUISER” collaboration collection: Boots inspired by the historic “200 Series” and “60 Series” ランドクルーザー models arrive, with a collection of 8 styles to be a tough guy’s trusted companion
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ABCマート will launch a collaboration collection between boot brand “Danner” and “LAND CRUISER OFFICIAL ITEMS,” developed by トヨタ・コニック・プロ株式会社, on October 16, 2026. The collection features 8 styles, including boots and apparel inspired by the historic “200 Series” and “60 Series” ランドクルーザー models.
Get original merchandise at 松屋 and 松のや locations nationwide ♪ Plus, a social media campaign with prizes! 松屋 and 松のや announce collaboration with “Sumikko Gurashi”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
サンエックス株式会社 is holding a collaboration campaign with “Sumikko Gurashi” at 松屋 and 松のや, operated by 松屋フーズ. Customers who order eligible menu items will receive a limited-edition keychain, and prizes will also be awarded to people who follow and repost on social media.
“Wondershare Recoverit V15” launches to support photo and video creators in their work
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワンダーシェアーソフトウェア has launched “Wondershare Recoverit V15,” data recovery software for photo and video creators. Enhancements include recovery for SD cards and partitions, support for previewing and repairing RAW files and high-resolution videos, Mac compatibility, and an AI-powered media search feature.
The first wave of STRICT-G “GUNDAM” × “hololive production” collaboration items arrives!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社バンダイ will launch the first collaboration products between “GUNDAM” and “hololive production” at STRICT-G, an apparel shop themed around the world of Gundam. The lineup includes 3 items: a pin badge set, rubber coaster and embroidered T-shirt. Preorders will begin on September 30, 2026, through “プレミアムバンダイ,” with in-store sales scheduled to start on October 31, 2026.
[8th store in Gunma Prefecture and 3rd in Ota City] FIT-EASY Ota Komaimoki store to grand open on Sunday, Nov. 1! Enjoy the ultimate wellness experience with the city’s first high-concentration oxygen room, EMS training machines, sauna, golf and more!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
フィットイージー株式会社 will grand open its “FIT-EASY Ota Komaimoki store” in Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, on November 1, 2026. The store features the city’s first high-concentration oxygen room and EMS training machines, among other amenities, and is offering an opening campaign that includes a free membership fee and a permanent discount.
Facts
Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Monthly membership fees permanently discounted by ¥550 (tax included)
大日本印刷（DNP） will launch the “DNPグループ Alumni Network” for former employees of DNPグループ, including mid-career and mandatory retirees, marking its 150th anniversary. The network will begin operating on October 1, 2026.
ハンターマウンテン塩原 will begin operating its “Autumn Foliage Gondola” on October 10, 2026, and run a free-ride campaign for elementary school students who live in Tochigi Prefecture.
“People × Insurance × Technology”: 三井住友海上プライマリー生命 newly registered for “Insurance IQ System®,” “AS SYSTEM” and “AS-BOX,” independently developed by IRRC Corporation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
三井住友海上プライマリー生命保険株式会社 was newly registered as an insurance company eligible for quote estimates for the insurance analysis and search systems “Insurance IQ System,” “AS SYSTEM” and “AS-BOX,” independently developed by 株式会社アイリックコーポレーション, effective September 29, 2026.
A new PLAZA celebrating its 60th anniversary: “PLAZA TOKYO+ (Plaza Tokyo Plus)” to open at 新宿マルイ Main Building in November 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社スタイリングライフ・ホールディングス プラザスタイル カンパニー will open a new store brand, “PLAZA TOKYO+,” on B1 of 新宿マルイ Main Building on November 20, 2026, to mark its 60th anniversary. The space will feature creative design by Fantasista Utamaro and include a beauty brand and a cafe.
Career service “doda” reports changes in application requirements for planning roles—“Sales Planning,” “Business Planning and Development,” and “Corporate Planning”—before and after the spread of AI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The career service “doda,” operated by パーソルキャリア株式会社, announced findings from a study comparing changes in application requirements for 3 planning roles before and after the spread of AI (2022 and 2025). “Project Promotion” was the skill category that increased the most, and related job listings tend to offer higher salaries, while the advertised salaries for jobs requiring “OA Skills and Administrative Operations” have declined.
ウーマンエキサイト, operated by エキサイト株式会社, has published an interview article about “Take Your Baby to School!”, an initiative by a local child-rearing support group in Setagaya Ward, the only ward in Tokyo’s 23 wards to support the “WE Love Babies Project.”
株式会社ヤマダホールディングス has published the “Yamada Holdings Group Integrated Report 2026” on its official website. The report covers the “Everything for Living” strategy across 4 segments—electronics, housing, finance and the environment—as well as its PB+SPA product strategy, management shift toward prioritizing asset efficiency, and measures to achieve a PBR above 1.0.
Make backups smarter. Get a BeeDrive with your purchase of a Synology ActiveProtect DP320/DP340
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アスク will run a campaign from October 1, 2026, through March 25, 2027, giving customers a “BeeDrive 2TB” backup hub when they purchase Synology’s data-protection appliance “ActiveProtect DP320” or “DP340.”
Sharing 千葉大学’s challenges from the student perspective: Publishing the “Chiba University Sustainability Report 2026,” researched and edited by students
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
国立大学法人千葉大学 published the “Chiba University Sustainability Report 2026,” planned, researched and edited by students, on September 30, 2026. The report involved 17 students from the Environmental ISO Student Committee, 18 writers and 2 designers, and introduces initiatives such as YOKOTE VISION and the RE100 long-term vision.
Faithfully recreating the next-generation “event camera” sensor on a computer—physical simulation tracing the path of light enables fast, high-precision event generation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A research team including 千葉大学 has developed a technology for fast, high-precision computer-based reproduction of the next-generation “event camera” sensor using “path tracing,” a physical simulation of light paths. The method is expected to accelerate the generation of training data for AI used in autonomous driving and robotics.
Facts
Capturing at the microsecond level
Reduce computation time to about one-third
Published online on September 17, 2026, in the international academic journal IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics
Developing a method to predict cellular changes caused by transcription factor suppression—Building and releasing free of charge a large-scale database quantifying transcription factor–target gene relationships
[Gransta Tokyo] Supervised by Norihiko Fujiki of the 日本ジビエ振興協会! Autumn-only “Domestic Venison Hamburg Steak” on sale at STATION RESTAURANT THE CENTRAL from October 1 (Thu.)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社JR東日本クロスステーション will sell domestically sourced venison hamburg steaks supervised by Norihiko Fujiki of the 日本ジビエ振興協会 for a limited time at Gransta Tokyo Station starting October 1, 2026.
“Minato Ward women from around the world” gather. 4 films featuring women with striking looks in fierce competition to be screened free every week! “Wednesday Niconico Theater” announces its October lineup
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ドワンゴ announced the October lineup for “Wednesday Niconico Theater,” a program that streams films free every week on the live-streaming service Niconico Live. This month, under the theme “Minato Ward Women from Around the World,” 4 films will be screened over 4 consecutive weeks starting October 7.
Facts
4 films
More than 5,000 comments each time
More than 150,000 comments in total
Companies mentioned：株式会社ドワンゴ、Oracle Film Group Inc.、Wishart Media (Dongyang) Co., Ltd.、Wishart Media Co., Ltd.、H FILMS, INC.、Silvernoise Frame Ltd.、Princ Films、AL BRAVO FILMS LLC.、The Global Asylum LLC.、Octane Multimedia、INCENTIVE FILM PRODUCTIONS, LLC.、WWKG PRODUCTIONS, LTD.、WWKG, LLC、Rolling Thunder Films LLC.、Disney、YBW Group、Shanghai Funcola Media Co. Ltd.、Acme Holding Company, LLC.
[Latest 2026 survey] About 42% of people use AI tools to choose accommodations, and about 55% of them have stayed at accommodations recommended by AI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社mov released an original survey report finding that about 42% of people use AI tools to choose accommodations, and about 55% of them have stayed at accommodations recommended by AI.
Facts
About 42%
About 55%
41.9%
55.2%
About 36%
A total of 415 people
32 sites
Companies mentioned：株式会社mov、訪日ラボ、口コミコム、Surveroid、AICRAS（アイクラズ）、Google検索、Googleマップ、訪日ラボ ソリューションストア、trial JAPAN
[Ginza Cozy Corner] Seasonal autumn and winter sweets gifts now available! An assortment of baked treats with a variety of flavors and textures
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社銀座コージーコーナー will begin selling autumn and winter-only sweets gifts (Gift Assortment and Madeleine Assortment) at stores nationwide starting October 1, 2026.
2026 first-half cybersecurity report released: Examining the reality of increasingly sophisticated EDR bypass techniques and new risks posed by agentic AI
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
キヤノンマーケティングジャパン株式会社 released a report examining cybersecurity threat trends in the first half of 2026. It analyzes cases including increasingly sophisticated EDR bypass techniques, new risks from agentic AI, a rise in QR code phishing (quishing), and npm package compromises.
MSI to launch new portable EV charger “EZgo” and begin taking preorders
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
エムエスアイコンピュータージャパン株式会社（MSI） has begun taking preorders for the new portable EV charger “EZgo” for EVs and PHEVs. Features include connection to a 200V outlet without installation work, IP66 water and dust resistance, and a 7.5 m cable. A limited-time campaign will run from September 30, 2026, and the charger will be sold at コメリドットコム and 1,236 コメリ stores nationwide.
Starting tomorrow: “Santaアルク TOEIC® L&R TEST PART 5 Score Improvement Marathon 2026 Halloween” runs from October 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アルク and Socra AI Inc. will hold the free Halloween-themed event “Score Improvement Marathon 2026 Halloween” on the TOEIC prep app “Santaアルク” starting October 1, 2026.
Facts
300 questions in total
10 questions every day
All 30 rounds over 30 days
More than 450 million answer data points
More than 10 million users worldwide to date
Average score improvement of 195 points
$175 million investment
Companies mentioned：株式会社アルク、Socra AI Inc.、Riiid Inc.、ソフトバンク・ビジョン・ファンド2、CB Insights
Umeda Tsutaya Books will hold an event on October 30, 2026, to mark the publication of a new book by reading influencer Shinya. Participants can bid to buy a book based on a presentation of a “blind book” whose title and author are concealed.
ねんりん家, the baumkuchen specialty shop operated by 株式会社グレープストーン, will make its first appearance at 北千住マルイ from October 1 to October 12, 2026, selling autumn-limited honey sweet potato products and signature items.
Initiative connecting clothing to new value: “World Ecolomo Campaign” to install a permanent clothing collection “Ecolomo BOX” at 東京家政大学 ～Collected clothing to be used in students’ art and creative activities and classes～
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワールド, in partnership with 東京家政大学 and 株式会社ディープサンクス, will install a permanent clothing collection box, “Ecolomo BOX,” on the university campus starting in September 2026. Collected clothing will be used as materials for students’ creative activities and classes, and will also be reused and recycled.
Beyond disclosure: “PASONA HR UPDATE FORUM” on advancing women’s participation to enhance corporate value, held October 13, 14, and 30
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社パソナ will hold “PASONA HR UPDATE FORUM” on October 13, 14, and 30, 2026, to discuss enhancing corporate value through promoting women’s participation and human capital management.
“Kateigaho” November issue, on sale October 1: “Nara”—the mystery of the ancient capital; inns with spectacular autumn foliage; embassy hospitality welcoming guests with flowers; conversation between 荒木飛呂彦 and 山﨑妙子; 中条あやみ discovers the special side of Ginza, and more
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社世界文化社 will release the November issue of “Kateigaho” on October 1. Features include “Nara: The Mystery of the Ancient Capital,” inns with spectacular autumn foliage, the new series “Embassy Hospitality Welcoming Guests with Flowers” marking the magazine’s 70th anniversary, and a conversation commemorating 山種美術館’s 60th anniversary.
Product demo day “GLOBAL GEEK AUDITION,” which has produced 124 startups, set for November 16, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“G's,” operated by デジタルハリウッド株式会社, announced that it will hold “GLOBAL GEEK AUDITION” (GGA), a product demo day that has produced 124 startups, on November 16, 2026.
“Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” Blu-ray + DVD set on sale today, Wednesday, September 30! Even a major star is smitten with “Grogu”!? A look at the expressions of the “little star,” brought to life by 6 puppeteers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Blu-ray + DVD set and 4K UHD + Blu-ray set of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” go on sale September 30. Bonus content features the work of up to 6 puppeteers on Grogu’s expressions, as well as Sigourney Weaver’s appearance.
5 Chinese dramas to stream exclusively and ahead of other services on U-NEXT! “A Kiss of Vengeance for the Lying Witch” and more arrive in October
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社U-NEXT announced that it will exclusively stream 5 Chinese dramas ahead of other services starting October 1, 2026.
Facts
5 Chinese dramas
Oct. 1, 2026
¥330 (tax included) / 7 days
More than 480,000 titles
More than 1.33 million books
Companies mentioned：株式会社U-NEXT、USEN＆U-NEXT GROUP、Shenzhen Tencent Computer Systems Company Limited、Beijing Xiangyou Film and Television Culture Media Co., Ltd.、Haimiao Pictures (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.、YOUKU INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(Beijing) CO.,LTD.、株式会社U-NEXT HOLDINGS、Paravi、TBS、テレビ東京、GEM Partners
令和8年 October 4 First-Class Electrician written examination [written format]速報! Web seminar on passing the practical skills test now available!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 has published its review of the First-Class Electrician written examination held on October 4, 2026, on October 7, and is streaming a Web seminar on strategies for passing the practical skills test.
【Survey on protecting assets amid rising prices and a weak yen】Interest in “gold” reaches about 30%, but 34.0% are concerned about “storage and management”—what “psychological barriers” are preventing its wider adoption as a safe-haven asset?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey by 株式会社NEXER and 石福金属興業 found that amid rising prices and a weak yen, about 30% (28.0%) are interested in holding gold as an asset, but 34.0% see concerns about storage and management as a barrier.
About 60% of people who have bought apparel online have experienced “a mismatch in size or appearance”! Of those, more than 90% are also concerned about “overseas size labels”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey conducted jointly by 株式会社NEXER and Return Helper株式会社, about 60% of people who have bought apparel online have experienced a mismatch in size or appearance, and more than 90% of them feel uncertain about overseas size labels. In addition, 48.8% said they would buy more from overseas if returns were easy.
Facts
250 men and women nationwide
13.6％
58.8％
93.9％
38.8％
48.8％
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、Return Helper株式会社、株式会社NEXER Group
Just under 60% are aware of the shortage of nursery school teachers and kindergarten teachers, while awareness of the “one-off and flexible work” system stands at just 22.2%.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey by 株式会社NEXER and えんみっけ！ found that while 57.8% of people were aware of the shortage of nursery school teachers and kindergarten teachers, only 22.2% knew about the “one-off and flexible work” system.
Facts
The survey found that 57.8% had heard about the issue.
The figure stood at a total of 22.2%.
A total of 63.8% said they thought it would be useful.
[Survey on Household Food Waste Measures] Top Concerns About Storage Are “Odor (47.8%)” and “Fruit Flies and Other Insects (34.8%)”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey conducted by 株式会社NEXER and the home food waste processor パリパリキュー, the top concerns about storing food waste were “odor (47.8%)” and “fruit flies and other insects (34.8%).” While 63.0% were unaware of dryers or subsidy programs, 40.0% said they would consider using one if a subsidy were available.
Facts
500 men and women nationwide
“I put it in a deodorizing bag or airtight container” came to 23.0%.
“I didn’t know” came to 63.0%.
A total of 40.0% said they “would like to use it.”
About 40% of People Judge a Store by Its Sign. 54.4% Feel Trust in Stores With a “Good Sign”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey by 株式会社NEXER and 誉プリンティング found that about 40% of people judge a store’s impression by its sign, and that 54.4% feel trust in stores with a “good sign.”
Facts
A total of 37.2% said they “sometimes judge” a store’s impression by its sign.
A total of 47.6% said the design or condition of a sign “changes” their impression of a store.
A total of 54.4% said they feel trust or reassurance toward stores with a “good sign.”
A total of 44.6% said their first impression based on a sign “often matches” their impression of the store in reality.
Valid responses: 500 samples
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、誉プリンティング、株式会社誉ホールディングス、株式会社NEXER Group
株式会社東京ニュース通信社 will release “Tatsunami Stable SPECIAL FANBOOK 2026” on September 30, a fan book featuring 14 wrestlers from Tatsunami Stable, including yokozuna 豊昇龍.
Popular Artist はりたつお, Who Has Also Created Artwork for Beloved Characters, Releases First Solo Picture Book! A Story of Friendship and Growth Between a Flightless Red Dragon and a Tearful Kitten Who Dreams of Becoming a Firefighter
[TOP 30 artists who set the charts ablaze with the biggest surge last week]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AWA株式会社 announced its “Biggest Rising Chart Last Week” TOP 30 for September 21–27, 2026. Mrs. GREEN APPLE ranked first, back number second and HANA third.
A Must-Read for Mushroom Lovers: A Passionate Work of Nonfiction! “Feverish Mushroom People: A Chef and Freaks Possessed by the Spirits of the Forest” Published by 小学館!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
小学館 will publish around September 30, 2026, “Feverish Mushroom People,” a work of nonfiction telling the stories of people who devoted their lives to mushrooms.
First Store in Kyoto! Gift-Sweets Brand ISHIYA G, From the Makers of “Shiroi Koibito,” Opens! [Daimaru Kyoto Store]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ISHIYA, the maker of “Shiroi Koibito,” has opened its gift-sweets brand ISHIYA G at Daimaru Kyoto Store. The store will offer the location-exclusive collaboration product 「アイガトー(プレミアム抹茶)」 and the 「Saqu（サク）」 series, and an event featuring Chef Kimura is also planned.
[札幌プリンスホテル] Sales Begin for 2026 Christmas Cakes Under the Theme “A Rich Christmas”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
札幌プリンスホテル will begin accepting reservations for its 2026 Christmas cakes on October 1. The theme is “A Rich Christmas,” and the hotel will offer 4 cakes, including limited-edition varieties.
PLAZA Turns 60 and Opens a New Tokyo Hub: “PLAZA TOKYO+” Coming to Shinjuku Marui Main Building!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PLAZA, the brand of 株式会社丸井グループ, is marking its 60th anniversary and will open “PLAZA TOKYO+” on B1F of Shinjuku Marui Main Building on November 20, 2026. Creative design is by Fantasista Utamaro, and the experiential store will also feature a pop-up shop and cafe.
Free Distribution of a “Travel Guide” to 13 Regions in Conjunction With Mrs. GREEN APPLE Ringo Jam Tour “SHADOWS”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ぴあ株式会社 will distribute a free “Travel Guide” as part of a regional partnership initiative in 13 cities in conjunction with Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s arena tour “SHADOWS.” It will also roll out initiatives including a members-only digital rally and photo spots.
Facts
2026, marking the 10th anniversary
From Sept. 30
28 performances in 13 cities
From approximately 20,000 JAM’S nationwide
Companies mentioned：Mrs. GREEN APPLE、Ringo Jam、ぴあ株式会社
【gelato pique(ジェラート ピケ)】New stores opening on 10/9 (Friday) at Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu and on 10/30 (Friday) at Shamine Matsue! Launching limited-edition roomwear featuring a Shiba Inu
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The roomwear brand 「gelato pique」 from 株式会社マッシュスタイルラボ will open new stores at Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu on October 9, 2026, and at Shamine Matsue on October 30, and will offer limited-edition Shiba Inu items and campaigns.