The excitement of Showa-era television returns. A new karaoke experience singing alongside those stars. New models JOYSOUND X1 GOLD and JOYSOUND X1 RED launch in November
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社エクシング plans to launch the new models JOYSOUND X1 GOLD and JOYSOUND X1 RED in its commercial karaoke series JOYSOUND X1 in mid-November 2026. Features include Brown-kan, a collection of Showa-era television footage, new singing support functions, and expanded video services through partnerships with U-NEXT and USEN.
Facts
Featuring more than 450,000 songs, among the most in the industry※1
Scheduled for release in mid-November 2026
A lineup of about 100 songs, centered on karaoke staples
Supports about 10,000 songs
Residual noise: reduced by 10dB or more
・Reduced by 4dB or more (when using an analog microphone input [1 channel])
Addition of song lists covering 5 countries: the Philippines, Brazil, Spain, France and Italy
A lineup of more than 52,000 official music videos and live performance videos※1
Companies mentioned：株式会社エクシング、USEN、U-NEXT GROUP、U-NEXT、Golden Time Age CLUB
84.2% of people have never “discussed it beforehand” when it comes to their family's funeral. The most common prompt for making it easier to talk about was “when experiencing the funeral of a family member or relative,” at 23.6%
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey by 株式会社NEXER Group and 村田葬儀社 found that 84.2% of respondents had never discussed their family's funeral in advance. While 72.2% said advance discussions would give them peace of mind, “cost” and “scale and format” were the most commonly cited topics they wanted to communicate.
A Christmas of stories and music woven by Romanian goodwill ambassador 渡辺えり! 『ルーマニアのクリスマス』 returns to Hachioji this year! 【Free invitations for those aged 18 and under】
TOKYO FM『Blue Ocean』× Gunma Prefecture × Nadia × オレンジページ: Influencers once again spotlight the appeal of ingredients from Gunma Prefecture, introducing recommended recipes featuring a variety of ingredients!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TOKYO FM is producing and publishing the recipe program 『Blue Ocean』 from August 2026 to March 2027 in partnership with Gunma Prefecture, using influencers to showcase the appeal of ingredients from the prefecture. In October, culinary experts ワタナベマキ and RINATY will appear as guests and introduce recipes. A roundtable article will also be published in オレンジページ.
Spend the New Year holidays with Tiger and Barnaby. The TIGER & BUNNY collaboration room stay has been extended!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ホテルニューオータニ (Tokyo) announced that it will extend the availability of its TIGER & BUNNY collaboration accommodation plan, TIGER & BUNNY HOTEL, through January 31, 2027.
GMOランシステム launches GENBA AI byGMO, a BPO service connecting people with more than 150 AI agents specialized by business function
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
GMOランシステム, part of GMOインターネットグループ, will launch GENBA AI byGMO, a BPO service connecting people with AI agents, on October 15, 2026. The service uses more than 150 AI agents specialized by business function and is available with no initial fee, starting at 49,000 yen per month (excluding tax).
Facts
More than 150 AI agents specialized by business function
Service launches October 15, 2026 (Thursday)
49,000 yen per month (excluding tax; 20-hour plan with a 12-month contract)
60.0% of small and medium-sized businesses said they faced a labor shortage
Of these, 48.2% said it was “a serious situation affecting or hindering business operations”
Construction: 77.4%
Transportation: 72.2%
Nursing and care: 70.5%
40.2% of companies cited “labor-saving through digital tools and other measures”
“Securing staff through recruitment” (75.7%)
With more than 900 engineers and other specialists
A team holding more than 360 professional qualifications
【Survey】More than 80% of worksites operating amid extreme weather have noticed an increase in weather-related risks. More than 45% of worksites have changed working hours or schedules to adapt to the weather, with impacts extending to staffing: more than 40% report effects on “recruitment and retention”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to the “Extreme Weather and Japan’s Worksites: 2026 Survey” conducted by パナソニック コネクト, 82.2% of worksites have noticed an increase in weather-related risks, and 45.4% have changed working hours or schedules. In addition, 40.6% said the conditions affected recruitment and retention, while device problems also affected operations.
【JAF Kyushu】Auto test at Onga Town Car Festival! No special equipment needed—enjoy motorsports in your own car
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On November 3, JAF九州本部 will support the “2026 Onga Town Car Festival Auto Test” at the Onga Town Car Festival, holding a motorsports competition open to participants in their own cars. The JAF booth will also issue child safety licenses and offer seat belt experiences.
Featuring approximately 1,400 English words used at construction sites: Tsukuru Roman releases English vocabulary book
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ツクルロマン株式会社 has released “Construction English Vocabulary: Building Construction,” featuring approximately 1,400 English words used at construction sites.
【voco大阪セントラル】A soaring space where history meets modernity becomes an art gallery. First participation in the “Different Kyomachibori Art Fair”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
voco大阪セントラル by IHG will participate for the first time as an exhibition venue in the “Different Kyomachibori Art Fair 2026,” running from October 31 to November 3, 2026. Works by selected artists will be displayed in the hotel’s lobby lounge and party space, and the restaurant LOKAL HOUSE will offer dining discounts to visitors.
Facts
From Saturday, October 31, 2026, to Tuesday, November 3 (national holiday)
The art fair marks its 3rd year in 2026
Works by 54 groups selected from 261 applicant creator groups
Exhibited and sold at 14 venues around Kyomachibori
Changing “Because we’re family, we have no choice but to keep supporting them.” れんとレクシア服部 begins accepting residents, supporting people with disabilities in living life on their own terms
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
合同会社れんと has begun accepting residents at れんとレクシア服部, which supports independent living for people with disabilities. It offers private 1K and 2K living spaces and daily-life support, aiming to ease the burden on families and expand residents’ choices. The organization has also begun recruiting staff for facility-based home-visit care.
Facts
85.5% said they felt some form of anxiety about what will happen after their parents are gone
A survey of 2,500 family members with a child or sibling aged 18 or older with a disability
Brothers and sisters: 30.5%
Undecided / Don’t know: 27.1%
Welfare professionals: 14.5%
Approximately 3.18 million people by 2030
The number of working family caregivers is expected to reach approximately 3.18 million
The resulting economic losses are estimated to reach approximately ¥9 trillion
The most common response was “one person,” with 43 respondents
Family: 21 people
Friends: 19 people
Partners: 17 people
¥42,000 per month
Common-area fee: ¥10,000 per month
Fixed water bill: ¥3,000 per month
Monthly salary: ¥250,000 and up
Monthly salary: ¥270,000 and up
Monthly salary: ¥300,000 and up
Night-shift allowance: ¥5,000 per shift
Annual holidays: 120 days
Model annual salary: ¥3.5 million plus night-shift allowance
Service provision supervisors: ¥4 million plus night-shift allowance
Managers: ¥4.5 million plus night-shift allowance is projected
Kumamoto University Downtown Campus to host “Hermit Crabs and Sea Anemones Living Together on the Seafloor: Fascinated by the Ocean’s World of the Unknown”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
In a joint project with ニューコ・ワン株式会社, Kumamoto University will hold a Downtown Campus event at 蔦屋書店熊本三年坂 on the theme “Hermit Crabs and Sea Anemones Living Together on the Seafloor.” The event will feature an exhibit of the newly discovered Tsukisome sea anemone and a talk by Associate Professor 吉川晟弘.
アイシン selected for “Civic Tech Challenge YAMAGUCHI” to address mobility challenges in Yamaguchi City’s Ato area
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アイシン has been selected for Yamaguchi Prefecture’s “Civic Tech Challenge YAMAGUCHI” and has begun a demonstration using a prototype electric mobility vehicle equipped with its “Lean Steer Control” posture-control technology to address mobility challenges in Yamaguchi City’s Ato area.
Popular confectionery shop 銀座コージーコーナー now available through くるめし弁当 and シェフコレ!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Starting October 15, 2026, 株式会社くるめし began offering products from the popular confectionery shop 銀座コージーコーナー through its corporate bento delivery service くるめし弁当 and catering reservation site シェフコレ.
Webinar on Thursday, November 5, 2026: “From ‘Showing’ to ‘Conveying’ Atmosphere: New Approaches to Product Photography and Appetizing Visuals Through Emotional Storytelling”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アマナ will hold a webinar on November 5, 2026, featuring photographer 水木 as a speaker, to explore new possibilities in product photography and appetizing visuals through an emotional approach.
Facts
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Capacity: 100 people
Established in 1979 as an advertising photography production company
北見焼肉とんぼ家 × NPO法人U-mitte launch the “Delicious Moku Moku Project at とんぼ家”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
北見焼肉とんぼ家 and NPO法人U-mitte have launched the “Delicious Moku Moku Project at とんぼ家,” which donates a portion of sales of fresh offal, and are raising funds toward the construction of a multipurpose facility slated to open in fiscal 2028, with a fundraising goal of 100 million yen.
Facts
Opening in fiscal 2028
Total construction costs are approximately 600 million yen
[Free admission] The Japan-Germany Medical Biotechnology Symposium, hosted by ドイツ連邦経済・エネルギー省, will be held in Osaka on Wednesday, Oct. 21
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Japan-Germany Medical Biotechnology Symposium, hosted by ドイツ連邦経済・エネルギー省, will be held in Osaka on Oct. 21, 2026. Admission is free.
Facts
Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026
6 German companies
Admission: Free
Companies mentioned：在日ドイツ商工会議所、ドイツ連邦経済・エネルギー省、経済産業省近畿経済産業局、VitrofluidiX、Axiom Insights、GliTTher、CO.DON、MedSkin Solutions Dr. Suwelack AG、TQ Therapeutics、神戸市、一般財団法人 バイオインダストリー協会、一般社団法人再生医療イノベーションフォーラム、NPO法人近畿バイオインダストリー振興会議、一般社団法人日本再生医療学会、Berlin Partner of Economics and Technology GmbH、medways e. V.、biosaxony e.V.
[Survey] Schools experience 190 personal information leaks a year, affecting 310,000 people — most incidents result not from “attacks” but from “settings and operations.” A free “Bullying and Special Considerations Information Leak Risk Checklist (15 items)” that teachers can complete in 5 minutes is now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DriveChecker株式会社 has released a free “Bullying and Special Considerations Information Leak Risk Checklist (15 items)” for schools and will distribute it at EDIX 2026 Osaka. The release comes amid findings from an AISEN survey reporting 190 personal information leak incidents a year affecting 310,000 people.
Facts
190 incidents a year
A total of 311,889 people affected
Original1件あたり平均1,642人分
Checklist (15 items)
More than 30,000 contracted users
Companies mentioned：DriveChecker株式会社、AIイノベーション&次世代教育ネットワーク、AISEN、Google Workspace、Microsoft Teams
株式会社サムシンググッド will begin sales on Oct. 15, 2026, of “Avatar School,” a communication training game for autistic children supervised by physician and medical doctor Mikio Hiraiwa.
Facts
Oct. 15, 2026
Up to 8 people
Initial setup fee (tax included): 220,000 yen
Monthly fee (tax included): 33,000 yen/month
Companies mentioned：株式会社サムシンググッド、Rabbit Developmental Research
【SAMANSA】Announces its lineup of new short films for the 3rd week of October! What if you could freely change the shape of your own face...? Two human dramas depicting a strange experience and a heartwarming encounter are now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社SAMANSA announced that it will begin streaming 2 new short films, “Soulmate Waiting Room” and “Perfect Face,” on its short film streaming service “SAMANSA” on Oct. 16, 2026.
“Pawlinq™,” a smart collar exclusively for dogs, launches “Panting Detection (beta),” which makes dogs’ panting visible! “Dog Behavior Survey” also launches, inviting videos of dogs’ behavior to help prepare for heatstroke prevention next summer
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社RABO has launched “Panting Detection (beta),” a new feature for its smart collar for dogs, Pawlinq, and begun a “Dog Behavior Survey” to help develop heatstroke prevention alerts for next summer.
[First in Japan※] “Rashinba,” a completely free English learning app for children that lets them experience working in English, to launch crowdfunding on CAMPFIRE on Oct. 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Kids-UP will launch a crowdfunding campaign on CAMPFIRE on Oct. 15, 2026, to raise funds to develop “Rashinba,” a completely free learning app for children that lets them experience working in English. The target is 500,000 yen, and the app is scheduled for release in December of the same year.
Facts
Target amount is 500,000 yen
39 schools in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba and Saitama
“Kids UP,” with more than 20,000 members to date
Contributions start at 500 yen
Since its founding in 2016
The campaign launches on CAMPFIRE on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026
Until 23:59 on Monday, November 30, 2026
The app is scheduled for release in December 2026
Companies mentioned：株式会社Kids-UP、CAMPFIRE、調査総研合同会社、日経テレコン、J-PlatPat、PR TIMES、App Store、Google Play
World first! Officially recognized by Taiwan’s Tourism Administration! “A Modern Taiwan Guide for Japanese Readers” goes into reprint immediately after launch! A volume to see, discover, learn about and enjoy.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Li Shihui’s “Welcome to Taiwan, the Beautiful Island,” published by 株式会社飛鳥新社, went into reprint immediately after launch and received the first-ever endorsement of a commercial publication from the Taiwan Tourism Administration.
Jewelry brand Hirotaka unveils new pieces in its lab-grown diamond collection “HYPNOTICS”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Jewelry brand Hirotaka will release new pieces from its “HYPNOTICS” collection, which features lab-grown diamonds, on Oct. 15, 2026. A special exhibition will be held at its Tokyo Midtown store.
Facts
Release date: Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026
Lineup: 15 earring styles
2 ear cuff styles
7 ring styles
Price: 59,400 yen to 385,000 yen (tax included)
165,000 yen each
￥126,500
￥247,500
\198,000
\99,000
\341,000
\385,000
220,000 yen each
9 directly operated stores in Japan
More than 80 sales locations
Companies mentioned：株式会社パルメットイノウエ、Hirotaka、L.a.brown、BIRD OF PARADISE、ALL ABOUT BASICS
Kensington's first collaboration with Kirby! Two designs: “Dash,” featuring Kirby and Waddle Dee dashing around, and “Smiling,” with a smiling Kirby brightening your desk
Jewelry brand quip queint (クイップクエイント) announces its 13th collection, “LIMINAL.” The collection features genderless jewelry crafted from natural stones and silver925
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Jewelry brand quip queint (クイップクエイント) announced its genderless 13th collection, “LIMINAL,” featuring natural stones and silver925.
Women's health as a new asset for regional management. Stepping up efforts to put the “Women’s Health Promotion City Initiative” into practice with 本田勝之助氏
RT hair creation, a salon at イオンモール高知 in Kochi, undergoes renovation on 10/2. New dedicated nail and eye-care booths bring the salon closer to its vision of “comprehensive beauty that makes dreams come true.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RT hair creation イオンモール高知店, a salon at イオンモール高知 in Kochi operated by 株式会社RT, reopened after renovations on Oct. 2, 2026, adding dedicated nail and eye-care booths as it transitions into a full-service beauty salon.
Special screening of “DEAR MY HERO,” the first theatrical anime film based on “MapleStory,” announced!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ネクソン announced that special screenings of “DEAR MY HERO,” the first theatrical anime film based on the PC online MMORPG “MapleStory,” will be held in Tokyo and Osaka on Nov. 7 and 8, 2026.
Facts
23rd anniversary of the service launch
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Sunday, Nov. 8
Originalロッテシネマ約100スクリーン
More than 2億5千万人 cumulatively
More than 40 games
More than 190 countries and regions
Companies mentioned：株式会社ネクソン、NEXON Korea Corporation、NEXON Co.,Ltd.、ロッテシネマ、109シネマズプレミアム新宿、大阪ステーションシティシネマ
Discover a new kind of wellness in Harajuku. HealthyTOKYO ハラカド store to reopen after renovations on Saturday, Oct. 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Wellness brand HealthyTOKYO will reopen its flagship store at 東急プラザ原宿「ハラカド」 on Oct. 17, 2026. Under the “urban wellness” concept, it will offer products including PLANT FARM, a baked-goods brand made with domestically produced rice flour, and botanical care brand Kosmic Alchemy.
株式会社ブロードバンドタワー and ほくでん情報テクノロジー have launched a business partnership to resell data center services at the “Ishikari Renewable Energy Data Center No. 1,” which runs on 100% renewable energy.
ウインテスト launches semiconductor front-end inspection equipment business
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ウインテスト株式会社 has signed an NDA with a major overseas semiconductor-related company and begun discussions on its semiconductor front-end inspection equipment business, ahead of a full-scale rollout from March 2027. The equipment is destined for a factory scheduled for completion in Japan in 2028.
Facts
Full-scale business rollout from March 2027
Aiming to establish mass-production capacity in the fourth quarter of 2027
Scheduled for completion in Japan in 2028
Large-scale 300 mm semiconductor manufacturing plant
Logic chips of 7 nanometers or less
Announced as a new business on Dec. 26, 2025
Complete preparations required to launch the business by the end of December 2026
株式会社ゼネックコミュニケーション is running a migration campaign for its AI-OCR service “AIRO (アイロ).” Free operation support and half off the monthly basic fee for 3 months
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ゼネックコミュニケーション is running a migration campaign for its AI-OCR service “AIRO” for businesses currently using OCR or AI-OCR products from other companies. Initial setup and operation support, worth 100,000 yen, will be free, and the monthly basic fee will be half price for 3 months. Applications are open from Sept. 15 to Dec. 24, 2026.
“Hakone Ekiden” original designs arrive in the d POINT CLUB and d払い apps!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社NTTドコモ will offer Hakone Ekiden-themed designs for the “d POINT CLUB” and “d払い” apps starting Oct. 15, 2026. It will also begin a program donating an amount equivalent to 6% of the d POINT earned by users to the Kanto Intercollegiate Athletic Federation as a contribution.
[October 24 only] LOGiC Odaiba to open specially for the Tokyo Bay Grand Fireworks Festival! Pop-up featuring Italian sparkling wine “BOTTEGA GOLD” also planned
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Trattoria Pizzeria LOGiC お台場, operated by 株式会社オーイズミフーズ, will open specially for the Tokyo Bay Grand Fireworks Festival on October 24, 2026, and serve an Italian buffet. A pop-up sale of “BOTTEGA GOLD” will also be held in collaboration with Italian sparkling wine maker “BOTTEGA.”
Functional beauty supported by the legendary footbed. Introducing the HIGHWOOD LOAFER.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
BIRKENSTOCK will launch the unisex HIGHWOOD LOAFER, featuring its DEEP BLUE FOOTBED, for the 2026 fall/winter season. Each pair is priced at ¥28,600 (tax included).
Facts
More than 250 years
Autumn and winter 2026
Thursday, Oct. 15
¥28,600
Companies mentioned：BIRKENSTOCK、Birkenstock Japan 株式会社、ビルケンシュトック・ジャパン
Rice flour stollen is back this year! Winter-only come×come “Fluffy Rice Flour Stollen Pound Cake” opens for pre-orders on Thursday, October 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
築野食品工業 will begin taking pre-orders on October 15 for its winter-only gluten-free sweet, “Fluffy Rice Flour Stollen Pound Cake.” It will be offered at 10% off the regular price and is made with its own P&B Oil for confectionery and baking.
[Wear for gamers with cats] The “にゃんガルー®パーカー3” hoodie lets you tuck your cat into its front pocket. Newly equipped with a pocket for cat photos and a teaser cord!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
BIBILAB, the hobby goods brand of ビーズ株式会社, will launch the “にゃんガルー®パーカー3” loungewear for gamers with cats in October 2026. In addition to a pocket for carrying a beloved cat on the abdomen, this model adds a cat teaser cord and a pocket for taking smartphone photos. It is the latest version of a popular product with cumulative series sales of more than 40,000 garments.
Facts
October 2026
More than 40,000 garments sold across the series
The latest model in 5 years
Large-size design measuring 40 cm wide × 23 cm high × 8 cm deep
オルタナバンク, the alternative investment platform operated by SAMURAI証券株式会社, has unveiled the Overseas BNPL Business Support Fund “ID1189.” The total offering is ¥201.5 million, the target yield is 7% before tax, and the minimum investment is ¥10,000. The subscription period runs from October 15 to October 23, 2026.
Facts
Total offering: ¥201.5 million
Target yield: 7% (before tax)
Minimum investment: 10,000 yen
Minimum funding threshold: Investment applications totaling at least 10 million yen
野村不動産グループ launches “ののの” project, a community app connecting commercial facilities, stores and customers as part of its cross-facility digital transformation initiative
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
野村不動産グループ plans to launch “ののの,” a community app connecting commercial facilities, stores and customers, on November 2, 2026. The initiative aims to advance digital transformation and boost customer loyalty across approximately 700 stores.
[Unprecedented first printing of 40,000 copies and reprint before release] Recipes kept under wraps by 榮玉堂, a confectionery shop with a 190-year history, revealed for the first time! Highly anticipated hit book “The Alluring Dessert Recipes I Want to Keep Secret”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ワン・パブリッシング announced that “The Alluring Dessert Recipes I Want to Keep Secret,” a recipe collection by Keigo Kobayashi, the eighth-generation owner of Yamagata’s long-established confectionery shop 榮玉堂, has received a flood of pre-orders, prompting a reprint before its release, following an initial print run of 40,000 copies.
Facts
The unprecedented first print run will reach 40,000 copies
A long-established confectionery shop in Yamagata with a 190-year history
An era when you can practice group discussions on your own. Waseda students develop Japan’s first* “AI group discussion,” now officially available free of charge
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CareerPass, a job-hunting support service for students operated by 合同会社Node, officially launched its AI GD (AI group discussion) practice feature, developed by Waseda University students, on October 15, 2026, completely free of charge.
Discover Fukuoka’s traditional crafts and let children create with their imaginations: “Next Traditional 2026” outreach class to be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The outreach class “Next Traditional 2026,” jointly conducted by 株式会社明治産業 and ラブエフエム国際放送株式会社, will be held on October 20 at 福岡市立赤坂小学校. Sculptor 鹿児島睦 and doll maker 中村弘峰 will serve as instructors. Students will learn about Hakata’s traditional crafts and the history of Hakata dolls, then decorate unglazed dolls in this hands-on class.
Librus株式会社 publishes insight report: “Should Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Also Prepare for the SCS Assessment System? Explaining the Possibility of Requests from Business Partners”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Librus株式会社 has published an insight report explaining why small and medium-sized businesses should consider compliance with the SCS Assessment System and the possibility that business partners may require them to obtain ★3 or ★4 ratings.
ブルボン is opening the concept shop 〈Ｕｎ ＢＯＵＲＢＯＮ〉, featuring new Rumando products, a collaboration between Ｌａ ＢｉＴｅａ and 九九九, and caramel chocolate sandwiches from Hokkaido-born brand 〈ａｏｋａ〉 at Daimaru Tokyo.
Reprint decided just 13 days after publication! More than 80,000 foreign nationals work at convenience stores in Japan. A story based on real events, tracing the 23 years of a store-owning family who supported them
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社飛鳥新社 announced that a reprint has been decided for the book “Manager, the Customer Got Angry When I Put Chopsticks in the Pasta: 23 Years with Foreign Workers at a Convenience Store and the Store-Owner’s Family,” written by Shinichi Murao and released on September 30, 2026, just 13 days after publication. The book is a story based on real events, depicting the more than 80,000 foreign staff working at convenience stores and the store-owning family. Its author worked at the セブン‐イレブン・ジャパン head office for 30 years.
Facts
Reprint decided just 13 days after publication
Worked at the セブン‐イレブン・ジャパン head office for 30 years
Worked with the owners of approximately 2,000 franchised stores
Retired from a department store at age 50
List price: 1,650 yen (tax included)
Specifications: standard Japanese book size, paperback, 256 pages
New feature: A tool for creating “a book of your own” to strengthen daily commitment is now available in the online learning program used by 10,000 people
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アチーブメント株式会社 has released a tool for creating an “Affirmation Book” as a new feature of its online learning program “ATP.” Users can put their commitments into words and turn them into a physical booklet.
A solution to the problem of “snow sticking to LED headlights and making them dim”: snow-repellent film now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社カーメイト has launched “Snow-Repellent Film for Headlights,” which helps prevent snow from sticking to LED headlights. It uses super-water-repellent technology, requires no power, and is easy to apply.
Facts
Launched on September 30 (Wednesday)
We have been developing “super-water-repellent technology” since 2001
In 2024, we launched “Zero Wiper Film Type for Side Mirrors,” with improved durability
We began developing applications for headlights in 2023
Industry first: No battery replacement needed! A rechargeable kerosene pump that attaches to a kerosene container and is ready to use after 1 minute of charging is now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社工進 will begin selling “BEP-F10,” a rechargeable kerosene pump that attaches to a kerosene container, on October 15, 2026. The industry’s first fixed-mount model can deliver approximately 8 L of kerosene after 1 minute of charging, and a full charge costs approximately 0.3 yen in electricity.
No science-fiction technology that leaves the front line behind. “Smart Factory Conference: Put It to Work to Get the Most Out of It” set for November 12
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フツパー, with the support of 一般社団法人日本経済団体連合会 (経団連), will hold the online conference “No Science-Fiction Technology That Leaves the Front Line Behind: Put It to Work to Get the Most Out of It” on November 12, 2026. The conference will focus on embedding and expanding the use of AI and robotics after implementation, with speakers from 8 companies sharing their insights.
Facts
Nov. 12, 2026
Capacity: 500 people
Speakers from 8 companies
Securities code: Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth Market (478A)
November 19 (Thursday): AndTech to hold WEB online Zoom seminar, “Energy Design for Organic Photovoltaic Conversion: Design Guidelines for Devices Combining Light Emission and Power Generation, and for Highly Efficient Charge Separation”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社AndTech will hold a WEB online Zoom seminar on “Energy Design for Organic Photovoltaic Conversion” on November 19, 2026. The participation fee is 50,600 yen (tax included).
New release: My father was rushed to the hospital with a heart attack. One life-or-death choice after another is presented. Amid it all, challenges in caregiving and medical care, questions about how to live, and conflicts within the family come to the fore. “Seeing My Father Through to the End: Don’t Say, ‘He’s 九十 Already!’” now on sale!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A nonfiction account, “Seeing My Father Through to the End: Don’t Say, ‘He’s 九十 Already!’,” about a 90-year-old father rushed to the hospital with a heart attack, depicting challenges in caregiving and medical care and conflicts within the family, is going on sale.
新国立劇場 will stage Benjamin Britten’s opera “Peter Grimes” from November 2026. This new production, directed by Robert Carsen and conducted by Kazushi Ono, stars Brandon Jovanovich and brings to Japan the production that premiered at ミラノ・スカラ座.
Facts
50 years since his death
Nov. 23 (Mon., holiday)
October 2023
1945
2026
2,000 yen (tax included, unreserved seating)
1,500 yen (tax included, unreserved seating)
Monday, Nov. 23, 2026 (national holiday)
S: ¥31,900
D: ¥8,250
Z (day of performance only): 1,980 yen
U25 (S seats: 5,500 yen)
U39 (S seats: 12,100 yen)
Companies mentioned：新国立劇場、文化庁、ミラノ・スカラ座、Teatro alla Scala、ウィーン国立歌劇場、メトロポリタン歌劇場、バイエルン州立歌劇場、サイトウキネン・フェスティバル、モネ劇場、リヨン歌劇場、エクサンプロヴァンス音楽祭、東京フィルハーモニー交響楽団、WEBボックスオフィス、pia
Solve “not getting your message across” at work! The 5th Skill-Up Seminar will be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
As part of the “SAGA Woman Work Design Project,” carried out in partnership with 佐賀県, 公益財団法人佐賀県産業振興機構 will hold its 5th Skill-Up Seminar, featuring Michiko Terashima, president and representative director of 株式会社オフィスat, as the instructor.
Chase-action game “Moonlight of Traumerei” for Nintendo Switch / Nintendo Switch 2 Edition opens for preorders today! Enter a midnight world ahead of its Nov. 19 release
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社room6 has opened preorders for the chase-action game “Moonlight of Traumerei” for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. The game will be released on Nov. 19, 2026, and is currently on sale for preorder.
Dress up, have fun, learn—and support recovery along the way. “Kumamoto Halloween 2026,” one of the largest Halloween events in Kyushu, will be held for 1 day only on Saturday, Oct. 31, as a recovery-support festival for the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto earthquake
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Kumamoto Halloween Executive Committee will hold “Kumamoto Halloween 2026” at Sunroad Shinshigai on Oct. 31 to support recovery from the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto earthquake. Admission is free, and a portion of donations and merchandise sales will go toward supporting those affected.
Facts
Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
10:00〜18:00
Attendance of 80,000–100,000 over 3 consecutive years in the past
Approximately 81,000 people in 2025
10 years since the Kumamoto earthquake
Reached the initial target of 2 million yen
We grow pears (Akizuki, 秋麗, 幸水, and others) and grapes in a field of about 2 hectares
[Held Oct. 27] Free webinar for manufacturers struggling with requirements management using Excel and Word
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ゼネテック will hold a free webinar for manufacturers on Oct. 27, addressing challenges in managing requirements with Excel and Word and introducing the ALM tool “Codebeamer.”
From knowing the work to building AI. Workato extends the application deadline for its Agentic AI Hackathon (submission of concept sheets) to Oct. 23
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Workato株式会社 has extended the deadline for submitting concept sheets for “Workato Agentic AI Hackathon 2026” from Oct. 16 to Oct. 23. The event is seeking ideas for using AI that combine business knowledge and IT expertise, with prizes including an Amazon gift card worth 100,000 yen for the top award.
Facts
Extended to Friday, Oct. 23
Amazon gift card worth 100,000 yen
12–15 teams that pass the first-round screening
Final presentations on Nov. 18
Amazon gift card worth 100,000 yen per person
Amazon gift card worth 30,000 yen per person
Amazon gift card worth 20,000 yen per person
Amazon gift card worth 10,000 yen per person
More than 12,000 companies worldwide use Workato
Ranked as a Leader for 8 consecutive years
Companies mentioned：Workato株式会社、Workato、ジオデシック ジャパン、JWUG、Japan Workato User Group、LIXIL、横河電機、オリックス銀行、マイナビ、清水建設、帝人、メルカリ、SHIFT、コインチェック、Gartner、東京マリオットホテル
AI app “SIRUS” launches to grade and provide feedback on written math answers for university entrance exams in 30 seconds
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DeNA and its subsidiary BAKERU have launched “SIRUS,” an app that uses AI to grade and provide feedback on written math answers from university entrance exam candidates in 30 seconds or less.
Facts
Awards partial credit in 30 seconds or less
Used by more than 100 actual university entrance exam candidates
Approximately 3,000 original questions created
3 questions to solve today to increase your chances of passing
“HISTOP” series helps protect against mobile battery fire risks; funding goal reached on Makuake!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KOKODA announced that its “HISTOP” series of storage cases designed to address fire risks from mobile batteries and other devices has reached its funding goal on Makuake. It will continue accepting support purchases and is running a campaign for related stickers on 楽天市場.
日本ピーエス wins contract for periodic bridge inspections in 大分県杵築市; company’s specialist engineers, backed by 74 years since its founding, will inspect and diagnose bridges
A science lesson where students feel differences in weight with their fingertips: commissure and NTTドコモ to exhibit jointly at CEATEC 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社commissure and NTTドコモ will exhibit jointly at “CEATEC 2026,” held at Makuhari Messe from October 13 to 16, 2026, showcasing science education content that integrates the wearable haptic device “FeelFuse®” with NTTドコモ’s “FEEL TECH®” technology.
Secondhand brand auction “Tsunao-ku” holds its 6th event, with sales exceeding 80 million yen—92% sell-through rate, surpassing the previous event
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 6th “Tsunao-ku” secondhand brand auction, jointly held by 株式会社カイトル and 株式会社ペンギントレード, recorded sales exceeding 80.49 million yen and a 92% sell-through rate, up approximately 10.7% from the previous event.
[Joint Webinar] ipe and Lancers to hold webinar, “[Practical LLMO and AIO Course] What kinds of websites does AI rate? LLMO and AIO strategies and improvement points to know in the era of AI search” (10/27 (Tue.))
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ipe and ランサーズ株式会社 will hold a joint webinar on LLMO and AIO strategies on October 27, 2026.
Facts
Oct. 27, 2026
A track record of supporting diverse industries, with more than 500 companies
[宮崎県国富町 × Borderless Japan] Recruiting 3 community development volunteers! Taking on the challenge of creating new systems with local residents in 3 fields: tourism, agriculture and health
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
宮崎県国富町, with recruitment support from 株式会社ボーダレス・ジャパン, will begin recruiting 3 community development volunteers on October 13, 2026, to work in 3 fields: tourism, agriculture and health.
Opening tomorrow, 10/16! Mucha-uma!! Chiikawa Sushi POP UP STORE at 福岡三越!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Mucha-uma!! Chiikawa Sushi POP UP STORE” will be held at 福岡三越 starting October 16, 2026. Details have been announced, including a reservation system for admission tickets and purchase bonuses.
メルペイ launches a campaign offering discounts of up to 999 yen on every 3rd eligible purchase
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社メルペイ will launch a campaign on October 15, 2026, offering discounts of up to 999 yen for every 3 eligible transactions. New applicants for “Merpay Credit” will also receive discounts on every purchase for 30 days and coupons for メルカリ, among other benefits.
Cath Kidston’s new project “Life with BOOK BAG” launches with a POP UP at 代官山 蔦屋書店 from October 28 (Wed.)! Introducing lovely everyday moments with a favorite “BOOK BAG”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Cath Kidston, operated by 株式会社スタイリングライフ・ホールディングス, is launching “Life with BOOK BAG,” a new project focused on BOOK BAGs, and will hold a pop-up store at Daikanyama Tsutaya Books starting October 28.
“Family Memories Support Project”! Win a free stay (1 night, 2 meals included) at the resort hotel ホテルエピナール那須 in Nasu Kogen, Tochigi: 12 winners from 3 groups!
[Limited time] A fantastical winter look woven by winter stars. The winter-only “Winter Edition” package is newly available from MILLE-FEUILLE MAISON FRANCAIS.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シュクレイ will release the winter-only “Winter Edition” package from the mille-feuille specialty shop MILLE-FEUILLE MAISON FRANCAIS starting November 1, 2026.
Facts
On sale from Sunday, November 1, 2026
Price: 4-piece box, 1,728 yen (tax included)
4-piece box, 1,728 yen (tax included)
※ Reservations open in stores from Friday, October 16
Companies mentioned：株式会社シュクレイ、MILLE-FEUILLE MAISON FRANCAIS、ミルフィユ メゾン フランセ
New Gundam series smartphone game “Gundam Blitz Order” to launch! Network test announced
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社バンダイナムコエンターテインメント has announced the upcoming release of “Gundam Blitz Order,” an idle simulation game for smartphones, and the start of sign-ups for participants in a network test to be held in November.
2 iconic “masterpiece hero anime” series from the Showa era make their ABEMA debut! ABEMA to stream Go Nagai’s “Mazinger Z” and “Devilman” for the first time! Free marathon broadcasts of all episodes begin Friday, October 16
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ABEMA will stream Go Nagai’s Showa-era anime “Mazinger Z” and “Devilman” for the first time starting October 16, 2026, and will broadcast all episodes in free marathons.
Former AKB48 member Maho Omori has joined アップティー株式会社, which operates a service for creating original merchandise, and will work in public relations. The company aims to leverage her communication skills honed through her entertainment career in corporate PR and branding, while also building a model to support second careers for former idols in general business.
Facts
I had the opportunity to work as an idol with AKB48 for about 8 and a half years
[UNDER R] Craig McDean Photo Exhibition to be held at UNDER R TOKYO.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A photo exhibition themed around Ducati by British fashion photographer Craig McDean will be held at UNDER R TOKYO. In addition to the exhibition, a photobook and apparel collection will be on sale.
Kenta Otsuka and Aki Kondo's picture book Fumikiri Neko is released today alongside LINE stickers! The picture book theme song "Nyan to Kanaruru," sung by Erika Ikuta, was released on CD on Oct. 14!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINE stickers for the picture book Fumikiri Neko, developed by 株式会社ソニー・クリエイティブプロダクツ, Gakken and Sony Music Labels, are released today. The picture book went on sale on Oct. 15, and the theme song CD was released on Oct. 14.
Facts
List price: ¥1.650 (including tax)
Specifications (format and page count): B5 variant / 32 pages
Former AKB48 member Maho Omori joins アップティー株式会社 as public relations representative!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Former AKB48 member Maho Omori has joined アップティー株式会社 as its public relations representative. A subsidiary of 丸井織物 (マルオリグループ), the company makes T-shirts and sells nail tips, among other products. Its president, Tomoyuki Miyamoto, is exploring ways to support second careers for people with experience as entertainers.
Facts
Born on Dec. 5, 1999
Draft 3rd-generation member audition
Graduated after about 8 and a half years of activities
横浜バニラ to open its first limited-time pop-up store at ルミネ北千住!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
横浜バニラ株式会社 will open a limited-time pop-up store at ルミネ北千住 starting Oct. 22, 2026. It will sell gift sweets, including its signature Salt Vanilla Financier, which has earned a Guinness World Records™ title.