“Enjoy autumn foliage in Osaka”—a convenient base for viewing the autumn leaves in Kyoto and Nara, too. On sale: “Autumn Extended Stay,” a lodging plan with hotel credit
一般社団法人南越谷阿波踊り振興会 received a letter of appreciation jointly issued by 越谷市, 越谷商工会議所, and 一般社団法人越谷市観光協会
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人南越谷阿波踊り振興会 received a letter of appreciation on October 1 from 越谷市, 越谷商工会議所, and the Koshigaya City Tourism Association in recognition of its contributions to promoting Minami-Koshigaya Awa Odori culture and revitalizing the community over 40 years.
Facts
In recognition of its significant contributions to promoting Minami-Koshigaya Awa Odori culture and revitalizing the community over 40 years
We received a letter of appreciation on Friday, October 1, jointly issued by 越谷市, 越谷商工会議所, and the Koshigaya City Tourism Association.
The 40th Minami-Koshigaya Awa Odori will be held on Friday, August 21 (eve-of-festival event)
Original８月２２日（土）・２３日（日）の３日間
A total of approximately 8,000 dancers
The festival was held in grand style, drawing approximately 650,000 spectators.
New fashion e-commerce site for petite women, Puchi CARI, to launch on October 1, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ECLAN (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) launched Puchi CARI (Puchikyari), a fashion e-commerce site for petite women, primarily those 152 cm tall or shorter, on October 1, 2026. The online shop lets customers browse petite-focused products from multiple brands in one place and is also launching alteration services, such as hemming. The project was launched with support from a Nara Prefecture startup assistance subsidy. The site was commissioned to add9株式会社, which operates the Diji-Sapo Tenri Type B continuous employment support facility in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture. Expertise related to its diagnostic services is scheduled to be provided by 一般社団法人日本印象管理士協会, represented by Representative Director Koichiro Takeda.
Facts
We launched Puchi CARI (Puchikyari), a fashion e-commerce site for petite women, on October 1, 2026.
Fashion e-commerce for petite women, primarily those 152 cm tall or shorter
As someone who is 145 cm tall, the operator had long experienced these inconveniences firsthand.
Upcycled bonsai art pioneer TOUFU TOKYO to exhibit at the 20th GARDEX (International Garden & Outdoor Expo), a trade show for gardening, outdoor products, and spatial design!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Upcycled bonsai art pioneer TOUFU TOKYO (operated by TOUFU株式会社) will exhibit at the 20th GARDEX (International Garden & Outdoor Expo), held at Makuhari Messe. The event runs from October 7 to 9, 2026, and the booth number is 6-43. General visitors can enter for free by registering in advance via the invitation URL (VIP badges, which include special benefits, are limited to 100 people).
Facts
Original日時：2026年10月7日（水）～9日（金）10:00～17:00
Approximately 1,000 companies will gather
Venue: Makuhari Messe, Halls 4–8
TOUFU TOKYO booth number: 6-43
Registration for general visitors will be paid from the first day of the event (5,500 yen)
Includes a 1,000-yen lunch voucher redeemable at the venue
Visitor VIP badge (includes special benefits; limited to 100 people)
In 2021, launched ＜トウフ トウキョウ＞ with the theme of “life and death, and the accumulation of time”
Japan's first※1 underground data center using an existing tunnel under development — Next-generation infrastructure hub to be built in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, with operations scheduled to begin at the end of 2027
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Mitsui Fudosan, together with Kumagai Gumi and ゲットワークス, has begun developing Japan's first underground data center using an existing tunnel that Kobe City used to transport soil for land development until September 2005. The project will use approximately 3 km of the tunnel's total 14.5 km length, covering an area of approximately 17,000 m². The project was selected as the successful bidder on September 4, 2026, and service is scheduled to begin at the end of 2027. The project aims for a maximum power receiving capacity of 20 megawatts and will establish digital infrastructure for generative AI, leveraging the cool temperatures, earthquake resistance, and physical security found more than approximately 40 m underground. It also aims to develop multiple sites across Japan.
Facts
Service is scheduled to begin at the end of 2027
Connecting Kobe's mountains and sea over a total length of 14.5 km
Approximately 3 km of the total length, covering an area of approximately 17,000 m²
Area: approximately 17,000 m²
Aiming to operate it as a data center with a maximum power receiving capacity of 20 megawatts
Most of the existing tunnel lies more than approximately 40 m underground
It has been confirmed that the temperature inside remains between 15°C and 20°C year-round
Selected as the successful bidder on September 4, 2026
A tunnel that Kobe City used to transport soil for land development until September 2005
As of September 2026, it has a track record of building a total of 380 facilities
Since 2013, it has planned, designed, built, and operated container-based data centers
A system established in fiscal 2018
When the new group management philosophy was formulated in April 2024
Get business-focused learning and information in Niigata! NICO Club memberships (annual fee: 3,000 yen) now open!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益財団法人にいがた産業創造機構 (NICO) is recruiting members for NICO Club, a membership program with an annual fee of 3,000 yen. Members receive 4 benefits, including business seminars, the NICO Press magazine, a PR TIMES partnership program, and information via email newsletters, LINE, and Facebook. Corporations, sole proprietors, and individuals can all join.
Facts
For an annual fee of 3,000 yen, you can use a range of services, including business seminars, magazines, email newsletters, LINE, and Facebook.
This fiscal year, 3 in-person events and 4 online events are planned.
NICO Press, a business creation magazine supporting companies' endeavors (published 4 times a year)
YouTuber/TikToker Toua named ambassador for “STAFF OF THE YEAR 2026 supported by スマレジ”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社バニッシュ・スタンダード announced that a company providing the “STAFF START” digital transformation service for retail staff has appointed YouTuber/TikToker Toua as ambassador for the customer service contest “STAFF OF THE YEAR 2026 supported by スマレジ.” Toua will handle promotional activities and serve as a judge at the final stage, to be held at Shibuya Hikarie Hall A on Nov. 12.
Facts
Her YouTube channel has more than 1.4 million subscribers as of September 2026.
The video “Daily Makeup Part 2: A Cross-Dresser Goes from Ugly to Less Ugly” has recorded an extraordinary 19 million views.
The channel surpassed 1 million subscribers in July 2022.
The number of brands using the service exceeds 3,000
The final stage will be held at Shibuya Hikarie Hall A on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026.
Scheduled to begin at 13:30 on Nov. 12, 2026 (Thursday)
Full competition period: Thursday, June 25, 2026–Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026
Release of her first-ever 1st digital album, “This is Toua”
“ぐーぴたっ” × San-X Universe collaboration available for a limited time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ナリス化粧品 announced that it will release limited quantities of collaboration packaging for its nutritional food “ぐーぴたっ,” first launched in 1997, featuring 4 characters from 株式会社サンエックス (Rilakkuma, Kogepan, Tarepanda and Afro Ken) at drugstores nationwide and elsewhere starting Nov. 16. Cumulative sales have exceeded 207 million boxes.
Facts
Cumulative sales have exceeded 207 million boxes※１
The collaboration packaging will be available in limited quantities from Nov. 16 at drugstores, variety shops and mass retailers nationwide (excluding some stores).
“ぐーぴたっ,” which debuted in 1997
“ぐーぴたっ” marks its 30th year since its debut this year
Price: 198 yen (before tax), 214 yen (including tax)
“Disaster Preparedness Mini-Lecture: Comfort and Reassurance Through the Warmth of a Hand—Mental Health Care” to be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
認定NPO法人 日本セラピューティック・ケア協会 announced that it will hold a disaster preparedness mini-lecture, “Comfort and Reassurance Through the Warmth of a Hand—Mental Health Care,” in Dazaifu on Oct. 19. The program will include a disaster preparedness lecture, mental health care during disasters, an introduction to the association’s disaster-area support activities spanning about 20 years, and a hands-on session in therapeutic care, which originated with the 英国赤十字社. Admission is free, with places for the first 20 people; no reservation is required.
Facts
Date and time: Oct. 19 (Monday), 10:00–11:50
＊Registration begins at 9:30
Capacity: First 20 people
Participation fee: Free
Disaster-area support activities carried out by the association in various locations for about 20 years since the 2005 Fukuoka Prefecture West Coast Earthquake
The 2005 Fukuoka Prefecture West Coast Earthquake
Providing care to disaster survivors at an evacuation center in Kumamoto (2016)
A touch therapy developed by the British Red Cross in 1996.
Advance information released for TECROWD Fund No. 104, with an expected annual yield of 16.5%
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TECRA株式会社 has released advance information on “TECROWD104号ファンド,” a new fund from its real estate crowdfunding service “TECROWD（テクラウド）.” The capital-gains fund has an expected annual yield of 16.5%, an investment period of 12 months and a target fundraising total of approximately 1.27 billion yen. It is eligible for the “Start Investing This Fall! Asset Management Support Campaign.”
Facts
Expected annual yield: 16.5%
Investment period: 12 months
Target fundraising total: approximately 1.27 billion yen
Joins 品川区’s “Startup Ecosystem” as a partner member. Providing end-to-end support, from finding a property during the startup phase to rent guarantees!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社セーフティーイノベーション has joined 品川区’s “品川区スタートアップ・エコシステム” as a partner member. By combining “Biz Guarantee,” a rent guarantee service specializing in commercial real estate, with the small-property search sites “ちいきぼオフィス” and “ちいきぼ店舗,” it provides companies in the startup and growth phases with end-to-end support, from finding a property to rent guarantee screening.
Facts
Capital: 100 million yen
株式会社イノベーションホールディングス (Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market: 3484)
Properties listed: Primarily small- and medium-sized offices and rental offices under 50 tsubo
Properties listed: Primarily small retail spaces and vacant shops, mainly under 30 tsubo
Service launch: Scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2, 2026
Phone: 0120-66-7102 (10:00–18:00, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays)
Review questions for hospitals and clinics added. Simply display a QR code to make it easier to collect patient reviews without approaching them | 口コミロボ™
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SweetLeap株式会社 announced that it has added review questions for hospitals and clinics to “口コミロボ™,” an AI agent that helps businesses gain reviews on Google Maps. Patients can simply scan a QR code displayed in a waiting room or at reception and answer 3 “yes” or “no” questions on their smartphones, after which AI drafts a review. Medical facilities can now easily collect reviews without staff needing to approach patients.
Facts
Simply answer about 3 questions with “yes” or “no.”
Answer the displayed questions with “yes” or “no” (about 3 questions).
APU’s campus becomes an art gallery. 4 distinctive exhibitions to be held in conjunction with “Beppu Art Month 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
立命館アジア太平洋大学（APU） will hold 4 art exhibitions on its campus from Saturday, Oct. 10, to Sunday, Nov. 29, in conjunction with “Beppu Art Month 2026.” The exhibitions are part of a project promoting the “Campus Art Gallery Initiative,” launched as part of APU’s 25th anniversary activities. They include a group exhibition curated by students and faculty, a participatory art exhibition by a photographer and students, an “optical illusion art” exhibition focused on cognitive psychology, and an art panel exhibition featuring works by artists represented by ヘラルボニー.
Facts
4 distinctive art exhibitions to be held
“Beppu Art Month 2026,” running from Saturday, Oct. 10, to Sunday, Nov. 29
Launched as part of APU’s 25th anniversary activities
4 panels featuring selected artworks will be exhibited
株式会社楽天野球団 will begin accepting applications on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026, for the 2027 member audition for the team’s official cheerleading squad, 東北ゴールデンエンジェルス. Women aged 18 and older are invited to apply from across Japan, with about 20 members expected to be selected. The first-round screening closes on Nov. 8, followed by the final screening on Dec. 5. Members will be active from January 2027 through March 2028.
Facts
■Number of members sought: around 20
・Women aged 18 and older [as of Thursday, April 1, 2027]
■Application period: Tuesday, October 6, 2026–Sunday, November 8
・Sunday, November 8: Deadline for first-round screening
・Wednesday, November 11: First-round screening results announced
・Saturday, December 5: Final screening
■Program period: Friday, January 1, 2027–Friday, March 31, 2028
Since the team was formed for the 2005 season, the first season after the club was established
NARA STAR PROJECT, now in its 10th cohort, kicks off to help entrepreneurs and business owners in Nara achieve further growth!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original奈良市と奈良県が共催する起業家・経営者向けアクセラレーションプログラム「NARA STAR PROJECT」第10期が2026年9月10日にキックオフし、奈良を拠点に事業を展開する6名が採択された。EO Osakaが運営し、平成29年度の第1期からこれまでにのべ49名が修了。最終成果発表イベントは2027年3月30日に予定。
Facts
On September 10, 2026, the 10th cohort of NARA STAR PROJECT, a program supporting business growth for entrepreneurs and business owners, kicked off.
A cumulative total of 49 people have completed the program since the first cohort in FY Heisei 29.
Six people who run businesses based in Nara were selected.
Since its founding in Showa 39, the company has focused on mold manufacturing and has manufactured and processed various precision parts.
Founded in Ikoma City in March 2025, the company handles social media production for businesses
On March 30, 2027, financial institutions and venture capital firms will be invited for the program's culminating event
Established in Osaka in July 2010.
More than 170 entrepreneurs with an innovative venture mindset and based in Kansai are members
株式会社ALDION (head office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; representative director: 中村 興輝) was established in September 2026 and began operations focused on consulting, planning and production. It aims to create new possibilities by connecting expertise, technology, ideas and partners from different fields and integrating them into a single offering.
Exhibiting at TimeSyncJapan 2026, which aims to bring next-generation time synchronization infrastructure into practical use
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
古野電気 will exhibit as a member of the executive committee at TimeSyncJapan 2026, to be held at the NICT Innovation Center on October 19 and 20, 2026. 橋本邦彦 will give a presentation on the resilience of GNSS time synchronization, and the GF-100 Series and other products will be on display.
Facts
古野電気株式会社 will exhibit as a member of the executive committee at TimeSyncJapan 2026, to be held at the NICT Innovation Center on October 19 and 20, 2026
古野電気 continues to take part in Jammer Test 2026, a field test in Norway conducted in an environment with GNSS interference
The TB-1 Field Time Sync Generator is a compact, lightweight device that outputs UTC-synchronized 1PPS and 10MHz simply by connecting it to a measuring instrument
Implant crowns: Production time cut from about 1 month to as little as the next day as Yokohama's あきもと歯科 opens an in-house digital lab
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
あきもと歯科 (医療法人正道会), based in Yokohama, opened an in-house dental laboratory, the Digital Lab, on October 1, 2026. It can now handle the design and production of crowns for full-arch implant treatment, “All-on-X,” entirely in-house. Depending on the circumstances, production time—which previously took about 1 month when outsourced—can be cut to as little as the next day, with the aim of reducing the burden of clinic visits and costs.
Facts
It used to take about 1 month to complete
When conditions are right, this can be reduced to as little as the next day
A treatment concept that supports a full arch with 4 to 6 implants
A large machine that can mill all 12 teeth in a full arch at once
More than 70% of dental technicians work at external dental laboratories
More than 70 All-on-X treatment cases (September 2025–September 2026, according to DIOインプラント社)
About 6 months from implant surgery to fitting the final crowns
Estimated number of clinic visits: 8 (varies by case)
Capacity: 10 people
Eligibility: Dentists aged 40 or younger
Opened the in-house dental laboratory, the Digital Lab, on October 1, 2026
A study session for dentists will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Strengthening support in the human resources field — helping local businesses address people-related challenges through collaboration between consulting and recruitment services —
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ちゅうぎんヒューマンイノベーションズ will integrate organizational and human resources consulting services from 中国銀行’s Consulting Sales Department effective Nov. 2, 2026, strengthening its support structure in the human resources field. By linking consulting with recruitment services, it will establish a system to provide comprehensive support for regional companies seeking to resolve people-related challenges.
Facts
4. Date of business integration: Monday, Nov. 2, 2026
【ホテルメトロポリタン盛岡】Christmas Cakes 2026 and New Year’s Dishes 2027
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ホテルメトロポリタン盛岡 will begin taking reservations for Christmas Cakes 2026 and New Year’s Dishes 2027 on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026. It will offer 7 Christmas cakes specially created by its pastry chefs (¥3,600–¥35,000), as well as 6 varieties of New Year’s dishes prepared by its Japanese, Western and Chinese cuisine chefs, along with specialty sushi and sweets assortments (¥10,000–¥60,000). 盛岡ターミナルビル株式会社 marks its 45th anniversary since opening in 1981.
Facts
■Mille-feuille Noel Rouge ¥8,800
■Mousse Chocolat Trois Saveurs ¥5,200
■Noel Fromage Frais ¥5,200
■Fraise de Noel ¥6,000
■Japanese Chestnut Bûche de Noël ¥5,200
■Fruits Rouges ¥35,000
■Stollen ¥3,600
■Mukaitsuru Special New Year’s Assortment ¥60,000
■Miyabi ¥38,000
■Yorokobi ¥28,000
■Kirameki ¥18,000
■Rin ¥10,000
■Yuzuru ¥13,000
■New Year’s Sweets Assortment ¥11,000
Reservations for Christmas cakes and New Year’s dishes are being accepted from Thursday, Oct. 1
We opened the station building Fezan and Morioka Terminal Hotel (now ホテルメトロポリタン盛岡) in 1981. Thanks to the support of our customers, we are celebrating our 45th anniversary this year.
Opened the station building Fezan and Morioka Terminal Hotel (now ホテルメトロポリタン盛岡) in 1981
Mukaitsuru Special New Year’s Assortment ＜32 items in total＞
A luxurious autumn trip through Noto and Hokuriku, engaging all 5 senses. Now offering a 2-meal accommodation plan featuring the full-course dinner “Kanade KANADE” and a breakfast buffet with more than 40 dishes
Hinohara Village, the only village in Tokyo (excluding the islands): THEATER1, a hotel limited to one group per day, revives the former “Oneya Cafe.” The traditional house luxury inn VILLA ONE-YA, limited to one group per day, grand opens on Oct. 10.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Original株式会社ファウナが2026年10月1日に東京都檜原村で古民家ラグジュアリー一棟貸し宿「VILLA ONE-YA by THEATER 1」をグランドオープン。約180㎡・最大8名収容・ドッグフレンドリーで、テントサウナや地元食材料理も楽しめる。
Facts
VILLA ONE-YA by THEATER 1 will grand open on Oct. 1, 2026
Located at 44-I Shimomotogo, Hinohara Village, Nishitama District, Tokyo
Original施設の広さは約180㎡で最大8名様まで宿泊可能（推奨6名様）である
The operator is 株式会社ファウナ (representative: Shoko Tamura; established: June 2020)
The optional use fee for a MORZH tent sauna and cold plunge is ¥15,000
At “Takumi no Washoku,” Tetsuo Kato, former executive chef of 黒茶屋・燈々庵, offers in-home dining services
Indicative accommodation rates are ¥48,000 for 2 guests, ¥78,000 for 4 guests, and ¥108,000 for 6 guests
Developed “LoRaWAN®-compatible GPS Tracker - Max,” a location-tracking device that supports long-term management of outdoor assets with solar power and a durable design
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SMK株式会社 has developed the “LoRaWAN®-compatible GPS Tracker - Max,” an outdoor location-tracking device equipped with solar power and a large-capacity battery, designed with water, dust, vibration and impact resistance in mind. It is intended for long-term operation in environments where charging and maintenance are difficult, such as airports, ports and construction sites, with a target of 30 days of continuous operation when set to a 120-second transmission interval. Jointly developed with 花岡車輌株式会社, it will initially be rolled out for tracking ground-handling equipment at airports, with expansion into other fields such as ports, construction and logistics also under consideration.
Facts
It is designed for 30 days of continuous operation when the transmission interval is set to 120 seconds.
Evaluation is underway with the goal of achieving water and dust resistance equivalent to IP69.
Starts at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8! Capcom TV!! A special feature ahead of the release of “Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社カプコン announced that Capcom TV!!, airing at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, will present a special feature ahead of the release of “Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen.” With the game set to launch the following day, Oct. 9, the program will feature gameplay with special guests. Guests include Eiko Kano, Shokora Ikeda, Gō☆Jas and Otsuichi. A campaign offering prizes such as action figures will also be held.
Facts
The game is finally set to launch on Friday, Oct. 9, for Nintendo Switch(TM)2, PlayStation(R)5, XBOX Series X|S and Steam.
A campaign offering a chance to win prizes such as action figures will also be held, with 5 winners selected by lottery!
[Available to watch on demand] Watch the previous episode of Capcom TV!!, broadcast on Thursday, Sept. 3, here.
Pheasant Network’s $PNT listed on U.S. exchange Kraken
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
$PNT, the native token of Pheasant Network, whose development株式会社PGL is committed to, has been listed on U.S. exchange Kraken. Trading in the PNT/USD pair will begin at 12:00 UTC on Oct. 5, 2026. The network runs on Ethereum, and utilities for $PNT, including integration with the Super App, protocol functions, fee functions and governance, are scheduled to be introduced in stages.
TMN to begin supporting JR East’s “teppay” in October 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社トランザクション・メディア・ネットワークス (TMN) announced that its TMN Payment Gateway Service will support “teppay,” JR East’s new code-based payment service, when it launches on Oct. 20, 2026. The company will support seamless adoption of the payment service at TMN-affiliated stores nationwide and contribute to the rapid adoption of “teppay” across society.
Facts
JR East’s “teppay,” launching on Oct. 20, 2026, added to the payment options supported by the TMN Gateway
Connected to more than 1.2 million payment terminals installed at retailers and other locations nationwide
TMN provides infrastructure that enables easy connection to “teppay” through its network of 1.24 million retail locations.
More than 1.2 million terminals are connected, supporting a foundation for approximately 5.5 trillion yen in annual payments.
Capital: 6.1663 billion yen (as of the end of March 2026)
(Growth Market: 5258)
Established: March 2008
The mobile PASMO service is scheduled to launch in spring 2027.
TTS surpasses 100,000 cumulative orders for IoT devices approximately 2 years after its founding
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TTS株式会社 (headquartered in Taito City, Tokyo; CEO: Satoshi Kokai) announced that cumulative orders for its IoT devices, including GPS devices, surpassed 100,000 approximately 2 years after the company was founded in November 2024. The company provides an end-to-end offering, from IoT device planning and development to communications lines, cloud-based management platforms and system integration. Its products are used across a wide range of fields, including mobility, logistics, automobiles, construction, rentals and public infrastructure. The company aims to ship 300,000 IoT devices annually in 2027 and reach 1 million cumulative shipments in 2028.
Facts
Cumulative orders for IoT devices, including GPS devices, surpass 100,000
Since its founding in November 2024, TTS
Cumulative orders for IoT devices surpassed 100,000 approximately 2 years after the company was founded
The company plans to ship 300,000 IoT devices annually in 2027
It aims to reach 1 million cumulative shipments in 2028
Unicharm to hold limited-time “Frecious Ingredients Experience Cafe,” a dog cafe event where owners and their dogs can enjoy meals made with the same ingredients
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Unicharm will hold the limited-time dog cafe event “Frecious Ingredients Experience Cafe” in Yokohama Minato Mirai from Oct. 9 to Nov. 8, 2026, where dogs and their owners can enjoy meals made with the same ingredients. Customers who order a special menu will also receive free samples of “Frecious Real Craft Adult Dog Food with Chicken.”
Facts
“Frecious Ingredients Experience Cafe” will run from Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, to Sunday, Nov. 8.
The event will be held at Salon de BIOGANCE Cafe Yokohama Minato Mirai, inside MARINE&WALK YOKOHAMA, 1-3-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture.
Original営業時間は11:00～19:00で、ラストオーダーは18:30である。
Owners who order a special menu will receive a free 150g serving of “Frecious Real Craft Adult Dog Food with Chicken” for each dog they bring.
Customers accompanied by a dog who do not order a collaboration menu will also receive a free 40g serving of “Frecious Real Craft Adult Dog Food with Chicken.”
According to a survey by ペットフード協会, the value of the dog food market in 2024 had grown approximately 1.3 times over 5 years.
Unicharm’s Representative Director, President and Executive Officer is Takahisa Takahara.
ACCEA’s frozen meal brand BizSPOT adopts automatic steam-vent packaging “Smarange®” for the first time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Smarange®,” automatic steam-vent packaging provided by RNスマートパッケージング株式会社, has been adopted for the first time as packaging for 株式会社アクセア’s frozen vegetarian meals by BizSPOT. Smarange® is packaging in which a steam vent opens automatically when exposed to microwave energy during heating. It eliminates the need to open the package before heating, stabilizing heating quality and improving hygiene.
Facts
Established in 2023 as a joint venture between 株式会社リコー and 中本パックス株式会社
株式会社アクセア Tel: 090-3877-8209
株式会社リコー Public Relations Office Tel: 050-3814-2806 (direct)
muque to Perform at the Second Installment of Orange Station Live 2026, a Music Event by FWD Life and TOKYO FM Bridging the Gap Between Major and Independent Artists!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
FWD Life Insurance and TOKYO FM have announced muque, a 3-piece band from Fukuoka, as the second artist for their co-hosted music event Orange Station Live 2026. The event will be held at Zepp Haneda on December 3, featuring a 3-band bill with go!go!vanillas and Lucky Kilimanjaro. Tickets cost 5,800 yen, and the second presale will run from September 28 to October 18.
Facts
Date and time: Thursday, December 3, 2026; doors open at 17:30 / show starts at 19:00
Price: ¥5,800 (tax included; drinks not included; all standing)
Post offices to serve as the “first point of contact” for local challenges
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社OSSA, acting as the lead organization, has launched a project in the Asuke district of Toyota City as a demonstration project of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, using post offices as the “first point of contact” for local challenges. The project will proceed in three stages, from creating opportunities to discuss vacant homes to fostering people with ties to the community.
Facts
株式会社OSSA will launch a demonstration project as the lead organization for a project selected for FY Reiwa 8.
The 4 project partners are 日本郵便株式会社, Toyota City’s Asuke Branch Office, 株式会社つぎと and 株式会社三州足助公社.
The project is titled “Creating Community Leaders in Mountainous Areas: Post Offices as a Point of Contact for Local Residents and Potential Community Participants.”
The Asuke district has a population of 6,451, including 3,037 people aged 65 or older, accounting for about 47%.
In 2023, Japan had 9,002,000 vacant homes, with a vacancy rate of 13.8%; both figures were record highs.
Initiative ①, “Notice”: The first session is scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, and the second for early December.
Initiative ②, “Connect”: Individual consultations are planned at Asuke Post Office from November 2026 to February 2027.
日本郵政株式会社 has been running the 5th term of its “Local Co-Creation Initiative (LCI)” since April 2026.
Shelltas Selected for Meet New Solution OTA 2027: Taking Nine Years of Materials Research Global
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Shelltas (Ota City, Tokyo; Representative Director: Koichi Tokuda) has been selected as an exhibitor for Meet New Solution OTA 2027, to be held at Tokyo Innovation Base on February 4–5, 2027. The company has developed SeaFect®, a marine-derived calcium material made from scallop shells from Hokkaido, using proprietary technologies including a two-stage firing process. It is pursuing applications in aquaculture, agriculture, sanitation, construction and water treatment. The material is already being sold and commercialized as a calcium supplement for agricultural products and as a hygiene product. The company has also secured adoption by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, partnered with Jazeera Paints, a major paint manufacturer in the Middle East, and conducted collaborative validation with Singapore AIC. It is also scheduled to speak at the Blue Food Innovation Summit in London in May 2026, World Aquaculture Singapore 2026 in June of the same year, and the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit 2026 in Singapore in October.
Facts
Dates: February 4–5, 2027
In May 2026, Shelltas was selected as a Featured Start-Up at the Blue Food Innovation Summit 2026 in London
In June 2026, Shelltas delivered an oral presentation on its aquaculture initiatives at World Aquaculture Singapore 2026.
In October 2026, Shelltas is also scheduled to take the stage as a Featured Start-Up at the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit 2026 in Singapore.
The Insight Puzzle Adventure How to Use Announced for Steam! The Lack of an Instruction Manual Is the Game’s Biggest Rule
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社タカラッシュ and 株式会社RENGAME have announced the upcoming release of How to Use, a PC insight-driven experimental puzzle adventure game under joint development by 株式会社タカラッシュ’s puzzle-solving brand NANICA. The game, for Steam, is scheduled for release in March 2027. Players operate devices with no manuals or tutorials and discover how to use them. There are more than 15,000 possible actions to try.
Facts
More than 15,000 possible actions to try—not finding the right answer, but observing and having an insight.
The game is scheduled for release in March 2027.
Originalオープンからわずか半年で来場者数7万人を突破
A game company based in Osaka, established in May 2024 through the merger of 3 Osaka game companies.
NANICA-SHIMOKITAZAWA-, the first store, opened in February 2025.
From “Writing a Diary” to “Talking with AI.” AI-KATA Diary, which turns conversations into diary entries, officially launches on October 6
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイカタ has announced that it will officially launch AI-KATA Diary, which creates diary entries from conversations with an AI avatar, on October 6, 2026. Starting the same day, it will offer an individual plan for 780 yen per month, tax included, and corporate plans (Small and Standard) with an administrator dashboard.
Facts
AI-KATA Diary (Aikata Diary) will officially launch on October 6, 2026.
780 yen per month, tax included
Available free for 3 days after registering a card
Small: 9,800 yen per month, before tax
30,000 yen (tax excluded)
5 IDs
Standard: 49,800 yen per month, before tax
50,000 yen, before tax
50 IDs
Established: April 2026
I myself have been using a diary app for more than 10 years.
Gen-AX’s practical research exploring and verifying approximately 180 million states in real-time voice AI selected for “IEEE TALE 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Gen-AX株式会社, which develops SaaS and provides AX support using generative AI and autonomous AI, announced that a research paper applying LLM-assisted formal methods to the redesign of a real-time voice AI orchestrator was selected as a Short Paper for “IEEE TALE 2026,” an international conference of the IEEE Education Society. The paper documents practical experience in which engineers without formal-methods expertise, assisted by LLMs, explored and verified approximately 180 million reachable states. It is scheduled to be presented at the conference, to be held in Pattaya, Thailand, from December 2 to 4, 2026.
Facts
Expanded the verification scope to a model exploring approximately 180 million states
181,364,514 reachable states (approximately 180 million)
After repeated verifications, including one exploring approximately 98,000 states
Explored 43,952,071 distinct states
Modeled as 35 state variables
The safety verification covered 24 invariants
All 21 remaining invariants
Confirmed that all 4 specified properties held
Detected 5 discrepancies
Found 3 conditions that prohibited behavior permitted by the specifications
1 process missing from the model
Across 3 independent LLM sessions
The model was revised in 3 cases
1 case was reported as an implementation issue
The remaining 1 case was rejected following an engineer’s review, as it did not match the implementation
To be held in Pattaya, Thailand, from December 2 to 4, 2026
The 14th edition of IEEE TALE 2026
Companies mentioned：Gen-AX株式会社、IEEE、IEEE Education Society
【SEKAIA】Launches “Global Higher Education Support Project” to mark 10 years of supporting university studies in Malaysia
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SEKAIA株式会社, which operates overseas study and global talent development businesses, has launched the “Global Higher Education Support Project” to mark 10 years of supporting university studies in Malaysia. From October 2026 through April 2027, it will provide free support to prospective students seeking to attend universities in Malaysia, from education counseling and school selection to university applications and receipt of admission notices.
Facts
To mark 10 years of supporting university studies in Malaysia
From October 2026 through April 2027
Free support from education counseling and school selection through university applications and admission notices
SAAF Holdings Group launches a PoC for the lightning detection and forecasting IoT system “みまわり伝書鳩” at a Taisei Corporation tunnel construction site
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NXTech株式会社, part of the SAAF Holdings Group, will begin a PoC (demonstration experiment) in July 2026 at a tunnel construction site operated by 大成建設株式会社, using the lightning detection and forecasting IoT system “みまわり伝書鳩.” The top priority is reducing the risk of accidental electric detonator activation due to lightning during blasting. The trial will verify lightning detection (within a 40km radius), lightning forecasts (up to 60 minutes ahead), WBGT measurement, and weather measurement. Cloud-based centralized management and notifications to both administrators and workers will enable site-led safety measures.
Facts
We will begin a PoC (demonstration experiment) using the lightning detection and forecasting IoT system “みまわり伝書鳩” in July 2026.
Lightning detection (detects thunderclouds within a 40km radius)
Lightning forecasts (lightning nowcasts up to 60 minutes ahead)
From string quartet, children’s choir and piano to soprano and tenor! “Christmas Present Concert 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
水戸芸術館 will hold “Christmas Present Concert 2026” on December 19, 2026. Planned and hosted by composer 池辺晋一郎, the concert will bring Christmas to life across 4 stages with a stellar lineup including string quartet アミティ・カルテット, NHK水戸児童合唱団, pianist 阪田知樹, soprano 湯浅桃子 and tenor 新堂由暁. A raffle will also be held during the performance, with audience members eligible to win special gifts using their seat numbers.
Facts
Original日 時 2026年12月19日（土） 15:30開場 16:00開演
General: 4,000 yen; U-25 (ages 25 and under): 1,500 yen
General: 4,000 yen; U-25 (ages 25 and under): 1,500 yen. Children below school age are not admitted.
(Hours: 9:30–18:00 / Closed Mondays (if Monday is a public holiday, closed Tuesday) and during the year-end and New Year holidays)
アミティ・カルテット began performing in 2016 and continues to explore the possibilities of the string quartet, from classical to contemporary music.
The program includes a previously unpublished work by Mozart, newly discovered in 2024.
阪田知樹 celebrates his 15th anniversary as a performer this year, after the remarkable achievement of winning 1st place and 6 special prizes at the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition in 2016.
Achieved the remarkable feat of winning 1st place and 6 special prizes at the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition in 2016
Symphonies Nos. 1–11
Companies mentioned：公益財団法人水戸市芸術振興財団、水戸芸術館、アミティ・カルテット、NHK水戸児童合唱団、東京音楽大学、東京オペラシティ文化財団、石川県立音楽堂、横浜みなとみらいホール、せたがや文化財団、姫路市文化国際交流財団、Lucky FM 茨城放送
Digestible-resistant soy protein “MAM” to be showcased at “Food Development Exhibition 2026”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
不二製油株式会社 will exhibit its digestible-resistant soy protein “MAM” at “Food Development Exhibition 2026,” to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from October 14 to 16, 2026, showcasing research findings on cats and the ingredient’s characteristics. Joint research with 岩手大学 has confirmed MAM’s contribution to improving cats’ intestinal environment and maintaining kidney health.
Facts
Exhibition dates: October 14–16, 2026
Exhibition booth number: 4-132
The relevant post on our official X account received approximately 200,000 impressions
The total number of views for related posts exceeds 1 million impressions
The number of cats kept in Japan remains around 9 million
The student-group sponsorship and growth-support platform「コラジェネ！」is now fully operational!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般社団法人Re-Generation has fully launched “コラジェネ！,” a sponsorship and growth-support platform for students and student organizations. It offers free consultations nationwide, combining startup advice, operational and public relations support, matching between organizations, and financial sponsorship tailored to 3 stages: launch, activity expansion, and project implementation.
Facts
Support is organized around 3 growth stages: “launch,” “activity expansion,” and “project implementation.”
23 organizations and clubs, with 400 participants.
The initial online meeting lasts about 30 minutes, during which we ask about your goals and challenges.
It will be held on April 26, 2026, at Yuda Onsen Konkon Park in 山口県.
In an autumn of relentless price hikes, “Why are new products so cheap?” Outlet store Dream market, with discounts of more than 90% OFF, opens at イオンモール川口前川 in Saitama!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Dream market（ドリームマーケット）, an outlet store operated by 株式会社Trust, will open a new location, Dream market Kawaguchi Maekawa, on the 2F of イオンモール川口前川 in Kawaguchi, Saitama Prefecture, on Friday, October 16, 2026. It will be the company’s 3rd store in Saitama Prefecture, buying up surplus stock and putting it back into circulation at prices discounted by more than 90% OFF. An opening sale will run from October 16 to 31, with about 40 eligible products offered at special prices.
Facts
It delivers outstanding value, with discounts of more than 90% OFF.
It will be the 3rd store in Saitama Prefecture.
The company currently operates 39 stores nationwide, mainly in the Kansai region, and
It wholesales to more than 400 discount stores nationwide.
About 40 eligible products / discounts of 90% OFF or more
Business hours: 10:00–21:00
Period: October 16, 2026 (Friday)–October 31 (Saturday)
“Sotetsu Life Sagamino” to close [Sotetsu Urban Creates and Sotetsu Building Management]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
㈱相鉄アーバンクリエイツ and ㈱相鉄ビルマネジメント, both part of 相鉄グループ, announced that they will close the commercial complex “Sotetsu Life Sagamino,” in front of the north exit of Sagamino Station on the Sotetsu Main Line, in late January 2027, bringing its 46-year history to an end.
Facts
Sotetsu Life Sagamino will close in late January 2027.
Sotetsu Life Sagamino opened on November 28, 1980.
It is located at 3-3-15 Higashikashiwagaya, Ebina City.
The closure is intended to create further appeal and develop the area as a hub.
As of the end of September 2026, Building A had 14 tenants.
The facility is operated by Sotetsu Building Management Co., Ltd.
Closing events will run from early December 2026 until the closure. A raffle is scheduled for early to late December 2026 at the plaza beside Renge Shokudo Toshu on the 2nd floor.
“Yokohama West Exit Halloween 2026” to be held [Yokohama West Exit Area Management]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yokohama West Exit Area Management will hold “Yokohama West Exit Halloween 2026” in the area around Yokohama Station’s west exit on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Activities will include a costume walk, visits to rally points, a market, and body painting, with nearby stores and businesses working together to enliven the neighborhood. The initiative has been running since 2016, and this will be its 11th edition.
Facts
Saturday, October 31, 2026, 10:00–19:00 (held rain or shine; canceled in severe weather)
This will be the 11th time
Nearby stores and businesses have worked together to hold the event since 2016, and
7 rally points set up in the area around Yokohama Station’s west exit
Advance registration; first-come, first-served, 300 people total (6 sessions, 50 people each)
Advance registration; first-come, first-served, 210 people total (3 sessions, 70 people each)
50 people, first-come, first-served registration on the day
Recipients of the 2026 Deming Prize and other awards (Reiwa 8)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Deming Prize Committee of 一般財団法人日本科学技述連盟 selected the recipients of the 2026 Deming Prize awards on October 6, 2026. The Deming Prize went to Professor Shu Yamada of the Faculty of Science and Technology at Keio University; the Deming Prize Distinguished Service and Practice Award went to Shinji Miyamoto of Toyota Motor Corporation; and 4 organizations were selected for the Deming Prize: PT. Cataler Indonesia, National Hospital Organization Sendai Medical Center, SONA BLW Precision Forgings Limited Driveline Division, and Tata Toyo Radiator Limited. The awards ceremony will be held at 経団連会館 on November 11, and 3 Nikkei Quality Control Literature Awards will also be announced.
Facts
The committee met at 経団連会館 in Otemachi, Tokyo, at 14:00 on Tuesday, October 6.
This year’s awards ceremony will be held at 経団連会館 in Otemachi, Tokyo, at 17:15 on Wednesday, November 11, and
Has published 25 books and 55 peer-reviewed papers.
These achievements have earned him the Nikkei Quality Control Literature Award 6 times.
Since joining the company in 1983, he has consistently worked on the front lines of quality assurance.
Revenue: US$78 million (approximately 12.2 billion yen / April 2024–March 2025)
Number of employees: 121
It has 656 beds and 34 medical departments.
Revenue: approximately 26.97 billion yen (fiscal year ended March 2025)
Revenue: 21.118 billion rupees (approximately 38 billion yen / April 2024–March 2025)
The company has 3,288 employees.
It has 6 production plants in India and 1 in Mexico.
The company has 2,727 employees.
TQM was introduced in 2017.
3 award-winning publications (book titles listed in Japanese syllabary order)
“SOYVIGNON (Soyvignon)” will go on sale from October 19, 2026 (Monday), at the Umenoyado Shuzo official online shop and Umenoyado Shuzo direct-sales store.
It took a full 5 years to eliminate soy milk’s distinctive grassy smell and create a refined flavor.
<Alcohol content> 10%
<Volume> 720mL
<Price> ¥1,500 (tax included)
As of September 21, 2026
Founded: 1893 (Meiji 26)
For women in their 40s and 50s, whose daily lives are busy in many ways, we hope this will offer time to gently care for themselves while enjoying the pleasure of savoring a drink.
A drone show depicts 400 years of Ako salt-making history, the present and the future; commemorative show to be held for the first time over the Sumida River on October 17
Introducing “Paper & Mood,” a fresh take on letter-writing items! Letter paper, mini envelopes and stickers with versatile uses limited only by your ideas
Change partners with 株式会社札幌ドーム to develop regional revitalization talent
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A subsidiary of 株式会社チェンジ has formed a business partnership with 株式会社札幌ドーム to develop talent for regional revitalization through the Sapporo Dome Academy. As the first initiative, the Hokkaido Mirai Design Camp will be held at 大和ハウス Premist Dome on December 12–13, 2026.
Facts
Hokkaido's population is projected to decline from approximately 5.225 million in 2020 to approximately 3.82 million in 2050.
At the camp, participants will develop skills in identifying issues, creative thinking and problem-solving through design thinking, cognitive training and Life Kinetik, and will present proposals on the theme of 'The Future of Premist Dome' on the final day.
The partnership will proceed around 3 stages: 'develop,' 'solve' and 'connect.'
The camp is hosted by 株式会社札幌ドーム and 株式会社チェンジ.
The president and representative director of 株式会社札幌ドーム is Koshi Abe.
Kabaya Foods' 'Sakusaku Panda' new commercial to begin airing on October 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カバヤ食品株式会社 is revamping its long-selling Sakusaku Panda brand, which marks its 30th anniversary, as chocolate biscuits made with rice flour. The new 15-second TV commercial, 'Sakusaku Panda: Renewed with Rice Flour,' will begin airing nationwide on October 17. The commercial features a rewritten version of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's 'PONPONPON,' sung by singer-songwriter YeYe. The product will also roll out in stages, beginning with an early release at convenience stores on September 15, 2026.
Facts
On the occasion of its 30th anniversary
Launched in 1996 as a snack featuring a panda motif
Broadcast begins October 17
From October 17, 2026 / Nationwide
(15 seconds)
70 different panda expressions on the chocolate portion
Chocolate confectionery / 47g (1 bag)
Chocolate confectionery / 102g (17g × 6 bags)
Debuted in 2011 with a self-produced album
Released 7 full-length albums
The 2017 YouTube hit song 'Yurayura'
September 15, 2026 / Convenience stores nationwide
October 6, 2026 / Supermarkets, drugstores and other retailers nationwide
[2026 Market Survey] Japan's Hello Storage, one of the largest self-storage operators, once again ranks No. 1 in listed storage properties, following its 2022 survey!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hello Storage, operated by Area Link, ranked No. 1 in 2 categories for listed properties in a September 2026 self-storage market survey. Following its achievement in the 2022 survey, it now operates 3,202 properties and 138,050 units nationwide.
Facts
In the '2026 September Self-Storage Market Survey,' Hello Storage ranked No. 1 in 2 categories: 'total listed properties for indoor and outdoor storage' and 'listed outdoor storage properties.'
This is the 2nd time it has ranked No. 1, following the 2022 survey.
Since April 2024, the company has been actively promoting its 'Partner Program' for storage operators nationwide.
エリアリンク株式会社 aims to reach a total of 200,000 units by the end of 2029.
エリアリンク株式会社 operates 4 businesses: storage, land rights development (leasehold land), offices and asset management.
JR東日本's new code payment service 'teppay' begins accepting applications through 'StarPay'
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ネットスターズ has connected its multi-cashless payment solution, 'StarPay,' with JR東日本's new code payment service, 'teppay,' which launches on October 20, and has begun accepting applications from merchants in time for the service launch. The 700,000 merchant locations nationwide that use StarPay will be able to accept teppay as a new payment method using their existing payment environments, with payment transactions and processing volume expected to grow.
Facts
The multi-cashless payment solution 'StarPay,' offered to 700,000 merchant locations nationwide
JR東日本's new code payment service 'teppay,' launching on October 20
It supports more than 70 services in Japan and overseas, enabling cashless payments in a variety of settings, including stores, vending machines and unmanned shops, as well as online.
The company has operated a gateway business since its founding in 2009.
In 2015, the company became the first in Japan to introduce a QR code payment service for inbound visitors.
[Includes 3 bottles of Hakushu 18 Year Old Limited Edition!!] A high-stakes draw limited to 466 entries. Reservations for the 'Super-Lucky Whisky Fortune Draw,' featuring ultra-rare bottles, open October 6
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The summary of this item is not shown
Facts
The special 'Super-Lucky Whisky Fortune Draw' will open for reservations on October 6, 2026, and is limited to 466 entries.
Shipping is scheduled for October 21–October 23.
The top prize includes 3 bottles of 'Hakushu 18 Year Old LIMITED EDITION.'
CTC supports construction of an AI-driven development platform for Mizuho Financial Group
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CTC supported the construction of an AI-driven development platform for Mizuho FG. Using its proprietary generative AI solution “C-CodeBlossom（CCB）,” it is advancing AI-readiness by standardizing design documents and specifications for over 200 systems in Markdown format.
Facts
Mizuho FG owns more than 200 systems
CCB includes a feature that converts design documents and specifications into Markdown format
CTC participated from the PoC stage
By sharing over 400 prompts, the initiative standardized deliverable quality and improved development productivity
CCB includes features for sequentially processing multiple documents and sharing and reusing prompts
Mizuho FG aims to realize AI-driven development in which AI agents autonomously support the development process in the future
笑顔道鍼灸接骨院グループ provides conditioning support and medical assistance for artists at “MINMI LIVE at Nippon Budokan”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
笑顔道鍼灸接骨院グループ, operated by 株式会社爽健グローバル, will provide conditioning support and medical assistance for artists at “MINMI LIVE at Nippon Budokan,” to be held at Nippon Budokan on October 8, 2026. It will also invite 100 people with disabilities and students as part of the “Supported by 笑顔道 みんなとつながる100席 特別ご招待” initiative.
[Funai Research Institute × UMU co-hosted seminar] COPC standards × AI self-directed learning | The real conditions for becoming an organization where “frontline teams grow” despite labor shortages
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
UMU Technologies Japan and Funai Research Institute announced that they will co-host a free online seminar on October 8, 2026, on the theme of “COPC standards × AI self-directed learning.” The seminar will explain how to address call center labor shortages and reliance on individual staff for training by using COPC standards assessments and the UMU AI learning platform to build a cycle of autonomous growth.
Facts
UMU Technologies Japan offers “UMU,” an AI-powered learning platform that supports performance improvement
Funai Research Institute is a distributor of COPC standards
Originalライブ配信は2026年10月8日（木）12:00〜13:00に開催される
Original録画配信は2026年10月27日（火）12:00〜13:00に開催される
The seminar will be held online via Zoom, with no participation fee
Shohei Nomura gained about 20 years of frontline experience at a major BPO company, joined Proceed (now Funai Research Institute) in 2020, and delivers training to more than 1,000 people annually, centered on COPC
UMU is used by more than 1 million companies across 203 countries and regions worldwide, and by more than 28,000 companies in Japan
UMU Technologies Japan was established on February 9, 2018. Its headquarters are on the 18th floor of JR Shinjuku Miraina Tower, 4-1-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo. Its representative director is Shuhei Matsuda.
Travel booking service “NEWT（ニュート）” announces findings from a survey of overseas tour bookings in September 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社令和トラベル, operator of the travel booking service “NEWT（ニュート）,” announced findings from a survey of overseas tour bookings in September 2026. Due to Silver Week (the 5-day holiday period from 9/19 to 23), departures from 9/18 to 21 accounted for about 1 in 4 bookings. The average budget index of 1.42, average tour length index of 1.08, and booking lead time of 86.2 days all reached their highest levels in the past 18 months (April 2025–September 2026). South Korea retained the top spot among popular destinations, with Taiwan in 2nd place, leaving the two as the leading destinations. Indonesia, China, and France saw the biggest rises.
Facts
Departures from 9/18 to 21 accounted for about 1 in 4 bookings
Bookings for September 19 were more than 3 times the usual daily level
Average budget index (1.42)
Average tour length index (1.08)
Booking lead time (86.2 days in advance)
11.1 days longer than the previous month
75.9 days in advance in June
Up 4.7% from the previous month (1.36)
The figure for holiday-period departures was about 1.78, substantially higher
The figure for departures outside the holiday period was about 1.29
Travel costs were about 40% higher overall
About 50% booked more than 3 months in advance
About 40% had completed their bookings more than 4 months in advance
Last-minute bookings made less than 1 month before departure accounted for only about 10%
Those departing outside the holiday period also booked 78.0 days in advance
Those departing during the holiday period booked an average of 109.1 days in advance
Even excluding holiday-period departures, the figure was 1.07, above the previous month
Busan in South Korea and Taipei each saw increases of about 50%
Hong Kong saw an increase of about 80%
Bali, Hanoi, Shanghai, and Paris grew by more than 2 times
Local junior high school students, who will shape the region’s future, experience the work of a hotelier! Career experience program to be held at 『ラビスタ富良野ヒルズ』 on Thursday, October 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社共立メンテナンス announced that it will hold its “DOMINISTA CHALLENGE” career experience program for students from 富良野市立富良野西中学校 at 『ラビスタ富良野ヒルズ』 on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Drawing on its hotel management expertise from the business hotel brand ドーミーイン, the program is aimed at junior and senior high school students who will shape the future. Activities include a classroom session, a check-in experience, room cleaning and an inspection of the large public bath. Since launching in 2019, the program has been held at more than 100 schools.
Facts
For students of 富良野市立富良野西中学校 on Thursday, October 15, 2026
10:00～15:00
Since launching in 2019
Together with more than 100 schools to date
104 buildings in total: 102 in Japan and 2 overseas
“ER,” created by model emma and stylist Rino Nakamura, launches first collaboration with global artist VERDY
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The brand ER（イーアール）, operated by 株式会社ユナイテッドアローズ, part of the 株式会社TABAYAホールディングス group, is launching its first collaboration collection with graphic artist VERDY, under the direction of model emma and stylist Rino Nakamura. The collection features an original logo and heart motif created by VERDY, and includes 9 styles, such as a varsity jacket, sweatshirts, T-shirts, knitwear, caps and bags. It will launch on October 24, 2026, at Beauty & Youth United Arrows Shinjuku Women’s Store, the Osaka store and online.
Facts
The collection includes 9 styles, such as a varsity jacket, sweatshirts, T-shirts, knitwear, caps and bags.
Price: ¥41,800 (tax included)
Price: 19,800 yen (tax included)
Price: ¥17,930 (tax included)
Price: ¥16,940 (tax included)
Price: 9,900 yen (tax included)
Price: 6,490 yen (including tax)
Price: ¥3,960 (tax included)
Price: ¥4,290 (tax included)
Price: 2,530 yen (tax included)
Release date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Dates: Saturday, October 24, 2026–Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (public holiday)
Dates: Friday, October 16, 2026–Sunday, October 25, 2026
“Tokyo Venture Technology Awards” ceremony to be held at Industrial Exchange Exhibition 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ツクリエ, which has been commissioned by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to operate the Tokyo Venture Technology Awards, will hold the awards ceremony on the main stage at Industrial Exchange Exhibition 2026 (venue: Tokyo Big Sight, West Exhibition Hall 1) on November 11, 2026. Special exhibition booths and presentations by the 15 award-winning companies will also be held at the venue.
Facts
15 award-winning companies
Date and time: Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 10:30–11:10 (planned)
10:30–11:10 (planned)
Wednesday, November 11–Friday, November 13, 2026
Original10:00～17:00 ※最終日のみ16:00閉場予定
Approximately 8,000 startup consultations annually
Shosukabu.com’s Yamanaka Hiro explains the Clarivate Citation Laureates in Economics: Ariel Pakes, an industrial organization economist who dynamically analyzed corporate investment and competition
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
少数株ドットコム株式会社 announced a special webinar, “Yamanaka Hiro Explains the Clarivate Citation Laureates.” The webinar will focus on Ariel Pakes, selected as a Clarivate Citation Laureate in 2020 in the field of economics, and explain his dynamic analytical methods in industrial organization, his contributions to the BLP model and his chances of winning the Nobel Prize. The free event will be held online via Zoom in October 2026.
Facts
Since the program began in 2002, 89 of those selected have gone on to receive the Nobel Prize
Date: October 2, 2026 (special session ahead of the Nobel Prize announcement)
Ariel Pakes, selected as a Clarivate Citation Laureate in 2020
His 1995 paper with Berry and Levinsohn, “Automobile Prices in Market Equilibrium”
Beginning with the Frisch Medal in 1986
Member of the National Academy of Sciences since 2017
2022 Erwin Plein Nemmers Prize in Economics
Individual disclosure of executive compensation (just over 45% in favor)
Made shareholder proposals that won support in the 40% range at companies including みずほFG, MUFG and りそなHD
In 2010, submitted 15 shareholder proposals to HOYA as a founding-family shareholder
Expansion of the word limit for explanations of shareholder proposals (4,000 characters)
More than 1,000 publicly listed companies worldwide
Shareholder in more than 200 privately held companies
Originalスペラファーマ株式会社、アメリカ化学会発行の「Journal of Natural Products」に社員らが参画した論文が掲載されました
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Originalスペラファーマ株式会社の製薬研究所所属の中井啓陽、三木邦力が参画した論文が、アメリカ化学会（ACS）発行の国際学術誌「Journal of Natural Products」に掲載された。同社はMicroED（Microcrystal Electron Diffraction）を活用し、海洋生物由来の新規抗HBV活性ジテルペノイドの構造解析と絶対立体配置の決定に成功。琉球大学 城森先生らとの共同研究。
Paper involving employees of スペラファーマ株式会社 published in international journal Chemistry – An Asian Journal
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A research paper involving Kuniriki Miki, Hiroaki Nakai and Mitsuhisa Yamano of the pharmaceutical research laboratory at スペラファーマ株式会社, a group company of アステナホールディングス株式会社, has been published in the international journal Chemistry – An Asian Journal. The joint research with Professors Saito and Tayu of 明治薬科大学 concerns the development of a novel [3+2+2] cycloaddition reaction using bis(trimethylsilyl)cyclopropanone and diynes. The researchers successfully analyzed the structure of microcrystals using 3D ED/MicroED technology, an area of strength for スペラファーマ株式会社.
From the manga Berserk, Kentaro Miura’s artwork depicting Guts and Griffith standing side by side, rendered as a 1/4-scale statue
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark its 15th anniversary on March 30, 2027, 株式会社プライム1スタジオ is releasing 1/4-scale statues of Guts and Griffith based on legacy artwork by Kentaro Miura from the manga Berserk, under the Ultimate Premium Masterline from its high-end brand PRIME 1 STATUE. The statues bring to life artwork from a variant cover of volume 34 of the comic. Preorders begin October 6, with release planned for February–May 2028. Limited to 500 of each, priced at ¥208,890 including tax.
Facts
株式会社プライム１スタジオ celebrates its 15th anniversary on March 30, 2027
Releases 1/4-scale statues of Guts and Griffith
Reservations open on October 6
The product is scheduled for release between February and May 2028
A higher-definition rendering of the variant cover from comic Volume 34
Additional investment as lead investor in 株式会社Essen, which develops and operates advertising delivery and infrastructure survey services using local mobility
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Takanawa Chikyuueki Fund, managed by Global Brain, has made an additional investment as lead investor in 株式会社Essen, which uses mobility data to provide advertising delivery and infrastructure survey services. Essen uses movement data from local vehicles such as taxis and delivery vehicles, and is developing and testing advertising delivery via rooftop signage and water pipe leak detection technology using onboard infrared sensors and AI analysis.
Facts
Total fund size: approx. ¥10 billion
Fund term: 10 years
Established: August 2021
Established: January 1998
Global Brain announced in May 2024 that it had made an investment through 新韓－GBフューチャーフロー投資事業有限責任組合
【品川プリンスホテル】A feast of food from 5 restaurants: Christmas menus to brighten the holiday season
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
品川プリンスホテル announced that it will offer Christmas menus at 5 restaurants on its premises from December 1 to 25, 2026. Under the direction of Executive Chef 安孫子明由, the menus are themed “FUN! FARE (Fanfare)” and will include a range of Christmas courses and buffets at DINING & BAR TABLE 9 TOKYO, LUXE DINING HAPUNA, 味街道 五十三次, 中国料理 品川大飯店, and 和ビストロ いちょう坂.
Facts
Original2026年12月1日（火）から25日（金）の期間
Original1名さま ￥28,000
Original1名さま ￥14,000
Original1名さま ￥16,000
Original1名さま ￥6,500
Original1名さま ￥22,000
A 13% service charge will be added separately
Restaurant reservations: TEL: 03-5421-1114
5 restaurants on the premises
Only the 8 specified allergens (shrimp, crab, walnuts, wheat, buckwheat, eggs, milk, and peanuts)
akippa and 株式会社にぎわい宇部 sign a cooperation agreement.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On October 5, 2026, akippa株式会社 and 株式会社にぎわい宇部 signed a cooperation agreement, in the presence of the mayor of Ube, to address the shortage of parking in central Ube, Yamaguchi Prefecture. にぎわい宇部 will call on nearby businesses and private homeowners to make parking spaces available through akippa, aiming to ease traffic jams and congestion during events.
Facts
A cooperation agreement to address the shortage of parking in central Ube, Yamaguchi Prefecture, was signed on Monday, October 5, 2026.
Previously operated official parking facilities for the 74th Ube Festival
More than 55,000 parking spaces listed nationwide and available for reservations at all times
The current cumulative membership totals 5.5 million.
Newly listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard Market in September 2026.
Kuradashi launches a collaborative research program with seminars and laboratories for the 2027 academic year
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クラダシ announced that it will launch a collaborative research program with university and graduate-school seminars and laboratories in the 2027 academic year, using the Kuradashi Fund to help develop future social entrepreneurs. In addition to donations of up to ¥1,000,000 in research grants, the company will provide its expertise, network, and data. The initiative continues following the results of the 2024 and 2025 academic years, and applications are open through November 23, 2026.
Facts
Research grant (donation): up to ¥1,000,000
Deadline: through 23:59 on Monday, November 23, 2026
Building on the tangible results of collaborative research conducted in the 2024 and 2025 academic years
Food waste reduction: 35,287 tons
Economic impact: 17.16857 billion yen
CO2 emissions reductions: 93,545t-CO2
Total funds raised: ¥194,051,084
Established: July 2014
Kuradashi has identified 5 material issues as it works toward a sustainable society and sustainable management
Supports efforts across the 17 SDGs
Companies mentioned：株式会社クラダシ、Kuradashi（ソーシャルグッドマーケット）、Dr.つるかめキッチン、La Table de SHIORI Online
【A new must-have for engineers!】Solve information fragmentation and reliance on individual know-how! “Notion Tips for Engineers” goes on sale October 6 to optimize engineering work
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社翔泳社 announced that it will release a new book for engineers, “Notion Tips for Engineers: Methods for Sharing and Managing Technical Knowledge with Notion and Notion AI,” on October 6, 2026. The book addresses challenges such as fragmented information, reliance on individual know-how, and rising time costs of searching for information, and covers everything from basic features to team development, document management, external tool integration, and the use of Notion AI.
The TRAVELERS HOUSE ROOFTOP BAR on the 26th floor of Oimachi Tracks: Christmas-exclusive dinner at a cutting-edge rooftop bar with panoramic views of Tokyo at night
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The TRAVELERS HOUSE ROOFTOP BAR on the 26th floor of ホテルメトロポリタン大井町トラックス, operated by 株式会社ポジティブドリームパーソンズ, has begun accepting reservations for a special dinner course (¥7,000, including tax and service charge) available only during the Christmas period from December 19 (Saturday) to December 25 (Friday). Guests can enjoy night views from 100m above ground. Served sharing-style, the course includes an assortment of 7 Christmas hors d’oeuvres, cream soup with 4 kinds of mushrooms topped with truffle, 300g of roasted US beef blade meat, and Rouge de Noël.
Facts
Price: ¥7,000 (including tax and service charge)
26th floor of Oimachi Tracks
A rooftop bar on the 26th floor, 100m above ground
300g blade meat roast
A selection of 7 hors d’oeuvres
A warming cream soup made with 4 kinds of mushrooms, perfect for the cold season
Dates: December 19 (Saturday) to December 25 (Friday), 17:00–23:00 (last entry 21:00)
Employees: 1,154 (as of May 1, 2026)
Established: July 1, 1997
TEL 03-6452-3202
Companies mentioned：株式会社ポジティブドリームパーソンズ、ホテルメトロポリタン大井町トラックス、The TRAVELERS HOUSE ROOFTOP BAR（ザ トラベラーズハウス ルーフトップバー）
S&B Foods is sponsoring the Shimokitazawa Curry Festival 2026, held in Shimokitazawa from October 8 to 25, 2026, and will run a collaboration featuring 135 establishments (including 110 curry restaurants) and Sega's Puyo Puyo and Sonic.
Facts
エスビー食品株式会社 is sponsoring the Shimokitazawa Curry Festival 2026, held from October 8 to October 25, 2026.
This year, the festival will collaborate with 株式会社セガ's Puyo Puyo and Sonic.
The tagline is: “So delicious you'll clear the screen!? Race around at sonic speed! Shimokitazawa's 135 establishments, a curry chain-reaction festival!”
“Shimokitazawa Curry Festival” is a registered trademark of スパイラル株式会社.
As extreme summer heat has worsened in recent years, a “heat countermeasure area” has been set up to provide fans and supporters with a more comfortable matchday experience.
Launch of a card for affluent customers in ASEAN as a strategic, comprehensive collaboration initiative with JCB and MUFG Bank
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
As the first initiative under its strategic, comprehensive collaboration with MUFG Bank in ASEAN, JCB has partnered with Indonesia's Danamon to launch the Danamon JCB Treasure Card for affluent customers.
Facts
株式会社ジェーシービー (JCB) and 株式会社三菱UFJ銀行 signed a basic agreement in July this year.
JCB has partnered with PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk and launched the Danamon JCB Treasure Card.
A 5% cashback applies when paying various bills with the card.
This card includes complimentary overseas travel accident insurance.
Preferential exchange rates apply to overseas transactions.
PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk is a strategic partner bank of the MUFG Group.
JCB's chairman and representative director and president and executive officer is 二重孝好.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ジェーシービー、株式会社ジェーシービー・インターナショナル、株式会社三菱UFJ銀行、PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk、三菱UFGグループ
New merchandise for “Rock Is a Lady's Modesty”: Acrylic Stands featuring Ririsa and Otoha in “Bondage Costume Ver.” debut from 二次元コスパ！【株式会社コスパ】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
二次元コスパ（株式会社コスパ） is releasing 2 newly illustrated Acrylic Stands featuring Suzunomiya Ririsa and Kurogane Otoha in bondage costumes as new merchandise for the anime “Rock Is a Lady's Modesty.” They are scheduled to go on sale in early December 2026, priced at 1,650 yen each (tax included). The standard preorder period runs through October 25, 2026.
Facts
Price: 1,650 yen each (tax included)
[Main body] Within 14cm × 10cm
[Base] Within 5cm × 5cm
2 types / Suzunomiya Ririsa, Kurogane Otoha
Release date: Scheduled for early December 2026
【Standard preorder period】Through Sunday, October 25, 2026
We continue to bring more than 2,500 items to market each year.
【Tomamu】The magical snow-and-ice town “Ice Village,” featuring experiences that let visitors enjoy the cold, including concerts at the Ice Chapel and afternoon tea at the Ice Hotel, opens on December 20, 2026!
The Thai BL drama “OUR LOVE IS SICK THE SERIES” will stream exclusively on U-NEXT as a U-NEXT Original starting October 7.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社U-NEXT, part of USEN＆U-NEXT GROUP, announced that the Thai BL drama “OUR LOVE IS SICK THE SERIES” will stream exclusively as a “U-NEXT Original” starting Wednesday, October 7, 2026. The series will be available in 12 episodes, at 440 yen each (tax included), with a viewing period of 2 days.
Facts
【Streaming start date】Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 12:00
“OUR LOVE IS SICK THE SERIES” <12 episodes>
【Price】440 yen each (tax included) / Viewing period: 2 days
Enjoy more than 480,000 movies, dramas, anime titles and more
It also offers more than 1.33 million manga and books for streaming
Following the service integration with Paravi in July 2023
【September roundup】AWA releases its original idol rankings!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AWA, the subscription-based music streaming service operated by AWA株式会社, has released its original TOP 10 idol rankings as “September Reactions Roundup,” calculated based on user activity from September 1 to September 30. Rankings by Heisei- and Reiwa-era debut were published in the playlist additions, fan favorites, downloads and fastest-rising categories.
Facts
Original配信楽曲数は1億5千万曲
The number of playlists created by celebrities and users totals approximately 16 million.
980 yen per month (tax included) for access to all features
1,080 yen (tax included) via the App Store, Google Play, or convenience store payment
The “Student Plan,” which provides access to all features for 480 yen per month (tax included)
The “Artist Plan,” which offers unlimited listening to selected artists for 270 yen per month (tax included)
During the period from Tuesday, September 1, 2026, to Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Service launched: May 27, 2015
Date established: December 1, 2014
Companies mentioned：AWA株式会社、株式会社サイバーエージェント、エイベックス・エンタテインメント株式会社、M!LK、SixTONES、King & Prince、嵐、Snow Man
Everyday life meets the extraordinary on a walk through Kokubunji: Center line art festival Tokyo 2026 “うろつく” set to open
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Center line art festival Tokyo 2026 Kasai Mizutake × Naoka Uemura Performance Project ‘うろつく’,” presented by 一般社団法人Co-production of art Works-M, will be staged at Tenshikan in Kokubunji on October 11–12, 2026. The performance combines a walk around the Kokubunji area with site-specific performance. Tickets are on sale through カンフェティ, operated by ロングランプランニング株式会社.
Facts
Performance dates: Sunday, October 11, 2026, to Monday, October 12, 2026 (holiday)
General: 2,500 yen
Students: ¥2,000
Meet in front of the ticket gates at Kokubunji Station: 12:45