堺市 will run “A School Built from Scratch,” an entrepreneurship development program for junior and senior high school students, and is also soliciting donations through the corporate hometown tax program.
TOPPAN adds panel discussion and forum support to its “LiveTra®” projection-based simultaneous interpretation system
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TOPPAN株式会社 has added new features supporting panel discussions and forums to its “LiveTra®” projection-based simultaneous interpretation system, with availability beginning November 1, 2026. It also aims to achieve more than 100 deployments annually by fiscal 2027.
Global Navigation, a shared menu displayed on all kintone screens, now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
M-SOLUTIONS株式会社 launched “Global Navigation,” an extension that displays a shared menu on all kintone screens, on October 28, 2026. It is available from ¥100 per month, excluding tax, and is designed to make access to apps and external systems more efficient.
Facts
October 28, 2026 (Wednesday)
Original1ユーザーあたり月額100円（税別）
Available in contracts for 50 IDs
15-day free trial
Since its founding in 2000
Offers more than 25 kintone plug-ins and integration services
MAKOTO Prime expands internal pilot deployment of AI employee “カルクネイティブ,” bringing it to the intern team
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社MAKOTO Prime expanded the internal pilot deployment of its in-house-developed AI employee “カルクネイティブ” and began introducing it to the intern team on October 25, 2026.
株式会社NECT has begun accepting applications for its fall recruitment for the Class of 2027. In the 6 years since it began hiring new graduates, the company has expanded its intake 31 times and opened 5 selection routes, including exemption from document screening and dedicated recruiter support, to address challenges students face as job hunting starts earlier.
Facts
Class of 2020: 8 people
Class of 2026: 251 people
Group-wide workforce of 1,538
95% of employees who joined NECT started with no experience in their role
High retention rate of 90%
Average overtime: 7 hours
Job offer in as little as 5 days
Get the gist in 30 minutes
Fast-track process (as little as 1 week)
With a workforce of 2,500 in sight
Return rate after childcare and maternity leave: 100%
[Survey on autumn headaches and weather-related pain] About 1 in 2 people experience worsening headaches during seasonal transitions. “Over-the-counter painkillers” are used by 70%; beware of “headaches caused by medication overuse.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey conducted by 患者目線のクリニック found that about 1 in 2 people (47%) experience worsening headaches during seasonal transitions, and 70% use over-the-counter painkillers to cope. Awareness of preventive headache medication was low, with 68% unaware of it, prompting a warning about the side effects of excessive painkiller use.
[Survey report] Men's concerns, Part 3: 38.4% of men who considered supplements to address their concerns but do not use them say, “I don't know if they work”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey conducted by 株式会社シンギー found that 38.4% of men question whether supplements work, with “I don't know if they work” cited as a reason for not using them or stopping use.
チャップアップ (CHAP UP) teams up with popular Ikebukuro salon アンク・クロス! A luxurious salon treatment experience begins
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ソーシャルテック’s hair care brand チャップアップ began a collaboration with popular Ikebukuro hair salon アンク・クロス in April 2026, allowing customers to try the brand’s products during salon treatments.
“YONII NIGHT RITUAL BOX,” a gift set of femcare products and bath additives featuring MEGUMI as brand muse, launches in a limited quantity on December 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社未来 will launch “YONII NIGHT RITUAL BOX,” a gift set of femcare products and bath additives from femcare brand “YONII,” featuring MEGUMI as its brand muse, in a limited quantity on December 15, 2026. The price is ¥13,200, including tax.
[Survey on paid leave] 70% of full-time employees misunderstand the rules; 60% are dissatisfied with “reduced pay when taking leave”! 30% of part-time workers “didn't even know paid leave existed”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The YouTube channel “脱・税理士スガワラくん,” run by tax accountant Yuichi Sugawara, surveyed full-time, part-time and temporary employees about their understanding of paid leave. The findings revealed that just under 70% of full-time employees misunderstand the rules and just under 60% are dissatisfied with reduced pay when they take leave, while just under 30% of part-time and temporary employees are unaware that paid leave exists.
アルコニックス株式会社 published its Integrated Report 2026 on October 28, 2026. The report is organized around 5 questions from stakeholders, and excerpts from the CEO's message are available in a video on YouTube. The English version is scheduled for release at the end of November, and the online version is scheduled for release in mid-November.
【ねんりん家】Winter-Limited Mount Baum Brownie Arrives, Along with a 1-Month-Limited “Delicious When Warm” Chocolat Fondue Version
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Baumkuchen specialty shop ねんりん家, operated by 株式会社グレープストーン, will begin selling its winter-limited Mount Baum Brownie and Chocolat Fondue Baum on November 1, 2026.
三井製薬 releases basic information on ingredient changes and the Maillard reaction involving its ingredient, “fermented black garlic extract”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
三井製薬 has released basic information on chemical changes, including the Maillard reaction and SAC production during the aging process, in “fermented black garlic extract,” a key ingredient in its “Mitsui NMN” health food series.
Seated Manjushri statue modeled in clay on the east side of Horyuji's Five-Story Pagoda (711)
Standing statues of the Ten Great Disciples, dry-lacquer works at Kofukuji (734)
Standing clay statue of Shukongoshin in the Hokke-do Hall and standing clay statues of the Four Heavenly Kings in the Kaidan-do Hall at Todaiji (around 730–740)
A gacha machine is offered as a visitor perk at Japan's largest fashion exhibition, FaW TOKYO; “turning it yourself” becomes a new trade show initiative
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ゼロプレイス provided its digital signage-equipped gacha machine, GTCHA X, for the autumn edition of FaW TOKYO, Japan's largest fashion exhibition, held at Tokyo Big Sight in October 2026, and used it as a visitor perk.
Facts
The gacha machine was turned a total of 229 times over the 3-day event
A new approach to hand and finger care in the smartphone and PC era! “Re-covery touch,” targeting small areas with vibration and pressure, launches advance sales on Makuake
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社GDT began advance sales on Makuake on October 28, 2026, of “Re-covery touch,” a vibration-and-pressure self-care item for small areas such as the hands, fingers and soles of the feet, from its lifestyle brand “sology.”
Facts
Oct. 28, 2026
10:00
About 2 mm
Up to 8,000 rotations per minute
10 types
Approximately 150g
About 14.5 cm
Companies mentioned：株式会社GDT、sology、Makuake、パルキュアソロジー®協会、Total Body Conditioning SAMURAI
エックスライト社 will exhibit at Flexo Japan 2026, taking place at the Tokyo Fashion Town Building on November 5 and 6, 2026, and will showcase solutions including spectrophotometers and color formulation software.
Experience the full bounty of autumn! First-ever “丹（まごころ）のやさいフェスタ” event puts farmers in the spotlight (丹波市, Hyogo Prefecture)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “丹（まごころ）のやさいフェスタ,” an event for the agricultural brand “丹（まごころ）のやさい” hosted by JA丹波ひかみ, 丹波市 and others, will be held in 丹波市, Hyogo Prefecture, from November 5 to 8, 2026.
Maggy reveals her custom car worth 30 million yen! “It’s wrapped in pink.” Former F1 driver and team director Aguri Suzuki is stunned: “It gets a license plate!?”
PostCoffee launches official app with “Beans” points program and community features; website and systems also receive a complete overhaul
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
POST COFFEE株式会社 launched the official PostCoffee app and completely overhauled its website and systems in August 2026. New features include the “Beans” points program and community functions, and the app also supports payments such as PayPay.
Facts
More than 200 products
About 3-minute coffee quiz
Original15時までのご注文で即日発送
1 Beans for every 100 yen spent, including tax
Originalレビューの投稿：1件につき5 Beans
300-yen and 500-yen-off coupons
10 rank levels, from Member to Legend
More than 66,000 reviews annually
About 600,000 cumulatively
Submissions made within 90 days of shipment are eligible
On-the-ground efforts to create local community spaces confirmed: housing for older adults with support services serves as a hub for connection [Mutual Aid Federation]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Welfare and Mutual Support Committee of パルシステム共済生活協同組合連合会 visited にじいろぱる松戸六実, a housing complex for older adults with support services operated by パルシステム千葉, to observe an example of creating a local community space in cooperation with 松戸市.
Facts
October 23 (Fri)
13 districts in the city
Since April 2022
Ordinary revenue: 5.07 billion yen
Staff: 67
535,000 mutual aid and insurance policies in force
Capital contributions: 2 billion yen
Total business volume of members using the unified business system: 268.96 billion yen
“m2,” an inner-care brand with cumulative sales of 50 million units※1, makes its Japan debut; official brand website launches
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shiny Brands Japan株式会社 has launched the Japanese business of “m2,” an inner-care brand available in more than 28 countries worldwide, and unveiled its official brand website. The brand, with cumulative sales of 50 million units, plans to launch 2 collagen drinks from November 2026.
Head out on a trip with just a stroller. The “TernX Carry On” travel stroller transforms into a suitcase in 5 seconds and goes on sale on Makuake from Saturday, October 31!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TernX Japan will begin Japan’s first authorized sales of the Australian-made travel stroller “TernX Carry On” on Makuake from October 31, 2026. It transforms into a suitcase in about 5 seconds and is designed to meet carry-on requirements, among other features.
4 new stores to open at IKEDIA, the shopping complex directly connected to Hankyu Ikeda Station, on Friday, November 20
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At IKEDIA, a shopping complex directly connected to Hankyu Ikeda Station developed by 合同会社MSH, 4 new stores—カルディコーヒーファーム, 成城石井, 3COINS+plus and アエナ—will open on November 20, 2026, marking a milestone in the complex’s renewal.
The shopping complex オアシス21 will undergo one of its largest renovations since opening in 2002, in spring 2027. Plans include adding a lawn space on the underground level and installing digital signage, as well as opening new stores making their Tokai-area debut, including “TruffleBAKERY” and “博多ぐるぐるとりかわ竹乃屋.”
Facts
Scheduled for spring 2027
Since opening in 2002
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: Renovation work begins
Early January 2027: Special renovation website launches
株式会社エリアエンジン announces “Chappy Ads,” an AI-powered advertising management service centered on ChatGPT
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社エリアエンジン has announced “Chappy Ads,” an AI-powered advertising management service centered on ChatGPT. The service supports small and midsize businesses and stores from initial consultations through campaign management and optimization, and the company plans to support AI-related advertising on platforms such as Google in the future.
“BALEEN,” which supports business viability assessments for grid-scale batteries, makes AI analyst “MELON” and a reverse calculation tool for allowable investment amount available free of charge
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RIA PARTNERS株式会社 has made its AI analyst “MELON,” the reverse calculation tool for allowable investment amount “Allowable CAPEX Based on Market Conditions,” and the simple “SIMULATOR” available free of charge on “BALEEN,” its platform for assessing the business viability of grid-scale battery storage.
Facts
Grid connection study applications accepted: approximately 172 million kW
Contract applications accepted: approximately 30 million kW
Capacity already connected to the grid: approximately 640,000 kW
[According to メガ発] Requests for appraisals of used solar power plants rose 38% year over year, reaching a record high for January–September. Individually owned, low-voltage facilities connected for 5–8 years were the main category, while the share of relatively new plants connected from 2022 onward also increased
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to data on bulk appraisal requests for used solar power plants handled by メガ発, operated by 株式会社エナジーリンクス, requests from January through September 2026 totaled 806, up 138% year over year and the highest on record. The main category was individually owned, low-voltage facilities connected between 2018 and 2021, while the share of relatively new plants connected from 2022 onward also increased.
Asymmetric multiplayer horror game “かくれ鬼: Hide-and-Seek Horror” set for release on January 28, 2027, following strong response at Steam Next Fest!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社FORCES has set January 28, 2027, as the release date for its in-development asymmetric multiplayer horror game “かくれ鬼: Hide-and-Seek Horror,” following strong response at Steam Next Fest.
あんしん祭典 Minami-Alps to open in Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture, on Thursday, November 5! A private venue for one group per day, offering support tailored to your wishes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ごじょいる will open あんしん祭典 Minami-Alps, a new facility under its funeral brand あんしん祭典, in Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture, on November 5, 2026. The venue is reserved for one group per day, serves everything from family funerals to general funerals, and will also host tour fairs.
Subsidy search service “ホジョミル” launches directory page for finding open subsidy programs by prefecture across all 47 prefectures and 15 objectives
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Essencimo has launched a directory page on its subsidy search service “ホジョミル,” where users can find open subsidy programs by selecting from 47 prefectures and 15 objectives.
Minami Nihon House to build new “Ishiki Store” in 1-chome Shimoishiki, Kagoshima City; signs design services contract with MANA建築設計事務所
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
南日本ハウス株式会社 has signed a contract with MANA建築設計事務所 for design services for the new 南日本ハウス伊敷店, to be built in 1-chome Shimoishiki, Kagoshima City. The signing ceremony was held on September 21, 2026, and design work by 増留麻紀子 and others is underway.
【Regional revitalization × SNS marketing】Bringing the appeal of 片品土出温泉 旅館うめや in Katashina Village, Gunma Prefecture, to audiences nationwide. Information outreach and visitor-attraction support to begin October 26, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ストーンハート will begin information outreach and visitor-attraction support for 片品土出温泉 旅館うめや in Katashina Village, Gunma Prefecture, on October 26, 2026. The initiative includes a revamp of the official website and aims to revitalize the region by showcasing the natural beauty of Oze and the appeal of its hot springs.
Facts
From Oct. 26, 2026
130 years: A mountain village hot spring in its prime
アイネットマコト launches “AI Agent Experience Lab,” where users can try 100 business workflows across 20 fields
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイネットマコト has launched the “AI Agent Experience Lab,” where users can try 100 business workflows across 20 fields. It is also accepting inquiries about adding agent functions to existing AI environments and developing system integrations, and is offering 60% off eligible development costs as a campaign through November 30, 2026.
Yoii and メディックス launch joint “SaaS Growth Program” for SaaS companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Yoii, which provides RBF, and 株式会社メディックス, a digital marketing support provider, have launched the joint “SaaS Growth Program” for SaaS companies, combining sales improvement assessments with financing.
PLAINER launches “PLAINER Live,” an AI Agent that proactively resolves users’ questions about using customers’ products
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PLAINER株式会社 has launched “PLAINER Live,” which uses AI to guide users through software and perform operations on their behalf, for software providers. It will hold its first demo at “OUTCOME 2026” on October 29.
株式会社Lister has launched a special website for a database of companies related to “Nonferrous Metal Resource Circulation,” part of the Japanese government’s “17 Strategic Sectors” for priority investment. The site offers a “Demand Impact Map” organizing demand related to the recovery and recycling of aluminum, copper, and other materials into 32 items across 8 areas, and is accepting advance registrations from related companies.
【Ramen Kairikiya】Its 2nd location in Nagano Prefecture! 京都北白川 ラーメン魁力屋’s Nagano Hirabayashi Store in Nagano City to grand open on Wednesday, November 4, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Nagano Hirabayashi Store, the 2nd location in Nagano Prefecture for 京都北白川 ラーメン魁力屋, operated by 株式会社魁力屋, will grand open in Nagano City on November 4, 2026. To celebrate the opening, select ramen menu items will be offered at discounted prices for 5 days only.
Organization development firm DroR registers as an FA and intermediary under the M&A Support Organization Registration System, offering support through post-merger integration (PMI)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DroR has registered as an FA and intermediary under the 中小企業庁’s M&A Support Organization Registration System and has begun providing M&A support that includes post-merger organization development (PMI).
Easing residents’ concerns: 5 instructional videos on how to use confusing “2-tier bicycle racks” now available on the official website
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ダイケン has posted 5 videos on its official website explaining how to operate 2-tier bicycle racks, aiming to ease residents’ concerns and reduce management burdens.
【Chopard】Special “My Happy Hearts” necklace in yellow gold and onyx arrives for the 2026 holiday season
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ショパール will release the “My Happy Hearts” necklace, made with 18K ethical yellow gold and black onyx, in a Japan-exclusive limited run of 100 pieces for the 2026 holiday season. Priced at ¥319,000, it will be available at ショパール boutiques and authorized retailers nationwide from October 28.
Illustrated digital map “Stroly” selected for Aichi Prefecture’s “Community Development Support Program Utilizing Startups”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Stroly’s joint venture with Toyokawa City was selected for Aichi Prefecture’s “Community Development Support Program Utilizing Startups,” and launched a pilot project to revitalize the Toyokawa shopping district in October 2026. An illustrated digital map will be released to coincide with the Year of the Horse temple opening, and visitor flow data will be collected and analyzed.
Facts
Initiative to begin on October 1, 2026
“Year of the Horse temple opening” for the first time in 72 years
To be held in November 2026 at the Toyokawa shopping district and Toyokawa Inari
To be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026
Preview event and first map release (October 31–November 2026)
Phase 2] Gamification implementation and updates (December 2026–around January 2027)
Results report] (scheduled for March 2027)
Date and time: Saturday, October 31, 2026, 10:30–12:30
Target: Approximately 100 visitors
There are 12,000 illustrated digital maps worldwide
メディックス and Yoii launch joint “SaaS Growth Program” for SaaS companies
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社メディックス and RBF provider 株式会社Yoii have launched the “SaaS Growth Program,” a joint program for SaaS companies that integrates sales improvement diagnostics, forecasting, and funding.
“Building communities where people want to continue living” in collaboration with レノファ山口FC: 富士商グループHD supports children’s inquiry-based learning through the Sustainable Training Center
How should AI be used in child development support, where staff shortages persist? Free webinars for child development support and after-school day services to be held on November 10, 17, and 24
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
VISH株式会社 provides the “Conovel” cloud service for child development support and after-school day services, and will hold free online seminars on staff shortages and AI use in child development support on November 10, 17, and 24, 2026.
The 2026 All-Japan Junior/Masters Championships at Iwai Beach have concluded! Day 2 was canceled due to poor weather...
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益財団法人日本ライフセービング協会 held the All-Japan Junior/Masters Lifesaving Championships at Iwai Beach from September 5 to 6, 2026, but the second day was canceled due to bad weather, making it a 1-day event. The event drew 310 participants from 31 teams and received support from 株式会社ストロングハート and the モナコ公国シャルレーヌ財団, among others.
Reiwa ８ fiscal year: Basic Industrial Robot Implementation Training
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益財団法人名古屋産業振興公社 will hold “Industrial Robot Implementation Training (Basic),” where participants can learn the fundamentals of industrial robots and operate actual machines, in December 2026.
【がブリチキン。】Black curry sauce inspired by Black Friday! “Black Curry Fried Chicken,” featuring fragrant spices, available for November only
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
「がブリチキン。」, operated by 株式会社ブルームダイニングサービス, will sell “Black Curry Fried Chicken” and seasonal drinks for a limited time starting November 1, 2026, in celebration of Black Friday.
Facts
From Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Black Curry Fried Chicken ¥649
Black Curry Fried Chicken Set Meal, 4 pieces of fried chicken, ¥1,210
【Survey on seniors’ attitudes】Good value alone isn’t enough to win them over: A survey of 1,420 people on banking reveals strategies for attracting and retaining seniors’ primary accounts
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Overview of a survey report on banking among seniors conducted by コスモヘルス株式会社. A survey of 1,420 people aged 50 and over found high reliance on regional banks, caution toward online banking, and interest in family reassurance features and health-linked benefits.
Facts
“Regional banks (banks in the area where you live)” (52.3%)
“Withdrawing and depositing cash (ATMs)” (76.8%)
“Checking pension and salary deposits” (64.0%)
“Not interested (I’m afraid of handling money on a smartphone / I don’t really understand it)” (49.2%)
“I don’t want to do it at all” (46.1%)
“I would consider it depending on the details” (52.4%)
Pacific Meta partners with Anseta, a corporate node operations and staking platform
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Pacific Meta has partnered with Anseta, which provides a node operations and staking platform for businesses, and has begun supporting adoption by Japanese companies and financial institutions.
【Owned media survey】About 80% are implementing AI search optimization (LLMO)! Companies use their own domains for “branding” and external platforms such as note for “lead generation,” survey finds
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey conducted by 株式会社PRIZMA in October 2026 found that about 80% of companies operating owned media are implementing AI search optimization (LLMO). The top operational goal for company-owned domains was “branding,” while for external platforms such as note it was “lead generation,” showing that companies are increasingly using the platforms for distinct purposes. Budgets also tended to grow as the number of media outlets operated increased.
Japan’s No. 1 ramen information magazine by actual sales※ The latest ramen guide to finding a bowl you’ll want to try in Yamagata, “Ramen Walker Yamagata 2027,” goes on sale October 28
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社角川アスキー総合研究所 will release the latest Yamagata edition of its ramen magazine “Ramen Walker,” “Ramen Walker Yamagata 2027,” on October 28, 2026. It features 17 new restaurants, Grand Prix winners, and initiatives by successor owners, and introduces 162 carefully selected bowls from across the prefecture.
To mark the release of the film “Godzilla-0.0,” Godzilla becomes a mini wallet. A palm-sized genuine leather “Small Wallet” goes on sale November 3 (Tuesday, holiday), Godzilla Day
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ガッツ will release a Godzilla-themed collaboration mini wallet, “Small Wallet Concha,” made with Tochigi leather, and a mini bag, “Small Bag,” on November 3, 2026, to mark the release of the film “Godzilla-0.0.”
[September M&A Monthly Meeting Report] 12 years after going public, aiming for the No. 1 market share through acquisitions of service competitors. Irugurumu CEO Iwata to speak after leading a successful takeover bid for a listed company!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社IR Robotics held the M&A Study Club monthly meeting on Sept. 15, featuring Susumu Iwata, Representative Director and CEO of 株式会社イルグルム. Iwata shared the company’s unique M&A strategy and negotiation process, including securing approximately 90% market share through competitor acquisitions and successfully completing a takeover bid for a listed company under its own leadership.
Facts
Approximately 90% market share
Established in June 2001
Listed on the TSE Mothers market in September 2014
榮太樓總本鋪 launches new oriental beauty tea jelly, co-developed with Taiwan’s 新光三越
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社榮太樓總本鋪 will launch oriental beauty tea jelly, co-developed with Taiwanese department store 新光三越, on Nov. 1, 2026. The price is 648 yen (tax included).
Celebrate Christmas “whole.” A pancake topped with a whole pear arrives for a limited 2-month run! “Bibliotheque Christmas Fair” starts Thursday, Nov. 5
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カフェ＆ブックス ビブリオテーク and パンケーキ＆ブックス ビブリオテーク will hold the “Bibliotheque Christmas Fair” from Nov. 5 to Dec. 25, 2026. The limited-time menu will include pancakes featuring a whole pear, a dessert resembling a whole cake, and a Christmas tree-shaped dessert.
26.5% of university and graduate students “did not know about” scholarships and grants for studying abroad, survey by MiraiBridge
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey conducted by Mirai Bridge, a study abroad support service from ラグザス株式会社, 26.5% of university and graduate students did not know about scholarships and grants for studying abroad. A total of 43.0% of students had not looked into or applied for them in the past 2 years, while 29.5% said they had no clear prospects for covering the costs upfront.
オラクル and OpenAI announced a new collaboration to reinvent enterprise computing. They will offer a suite of products integrating AI models such as ChatGPT and Codex with オラクル’s cloud infrastructure and applications, and have launched the Oracle AI SMB Bundle, which provides free credits to small businesses.
The sounds of manufacturing become a form of expression for young people. Original song and choreography to debut at KOKURA DANCE STATION
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
An original song and choreography created using factory sounds recorded at a plant operated by 株式会社高田工業所 were unveiled for the first time at the “Z Generation Breakout Contest 2026” on Aug. 8, 2026, at KOKURA DANCE STATION in 北九州市.
Take a winter trip with your dog! Kitakaruizawa hotel offers free pet fees and a chef’s special pizza to make your winter getaway special
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ゆとりろガーデン北軽井沢with DOGS, operated by 株式会社リロバケーションズ, will run a winter-only campaign starting Nov. 1, 2026, offering free stays for dogs and a complimentary chef’s special pizza.
[Yamanashi, Fujiyoshida] Scenic domes overlooking Mount Fuji renovated to be more spacious and comfortable! Plans include up to 30% off, a sauna package with 5 complimentary perks, and winter-only BBQ at 杓子山ゲートウェイキャンプ
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
杓子山ゲートウェイキャンプ, a glamping facility in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, has renovated its popular “Luxury 4-Bed” room, expanding it from 6m to 7m in diameter and replacing Japanese-style beds with Western-style beds. To mark the renovation, it is offering special accommodation plans with up to 30% off for all rooms. Also available are the “Mount Fuji Sauna Plan” with 5 complimentary perks, a Christmas BBQ available only in December 2026, and a New Year’s BBQ available only from the end of 2026 to early 2027.
Autumn in Hiruzen, as the fall colors move from the mountains to the plains
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
休暇村蒜山高原 is offering a “Mountain Climbing Support Accommodation Plan” for the autumn season, when fall colors progress through mid-November. The plan includes transportation to the Hiruzen Three Peaks, a boxed lunch, and access to hot springs. Nearby autumn foliage spots include Fukuda Shrine and Tokuyama Shrine.
Facts
Mount Kamihiruzen (1,202 m)
Mount Nakahiruzen (1,123 m)
Mount Shimohiruzen (1,100 m)
Period: Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026–Monday, Nov. 30
Price: 18,500 yen for 1 night and 2 meals
Bathing tax of 150 yen charged separately
A ginkgo tree more than approximately 650 years old
Companies from Shimane gather in Osaka and Tokyo! Shimane Company Expo to be held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
島根県 will hold the “Shimane Company Expo,” where people living outside the prefecture, students, and working adults can meet and interact with companies from Shimane, in Osaka on Dec. 5, Reiwa 8, and Tokyo on Feb. 13, Reiwa 9. Approximately 30 companies are expected to exhibit.
[Event Report] Aeon Fantasy lends educational entertainment games “ぐるぐるリサイクルん,” “えこらんエコロジーバス,” and others to “Dream Road” 2026; 936 people try games that teach about the environment
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社イオンファンタジー lent educational entertainment games that teach about environmental issues, including “ぐるぐるリサイクルん” and “えこらんエコロジーバス,” to “Dream Road” 2026. A total of 936 people (or approximately 956 people) tried them.
Family amusement center “Molly Fantasy” and 1-day children’s play venue “Nobikko Jumbo” to grand open at 島忠ホームズ寝屋川店 on Nov. 19 (Thu)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社イオンファンタジー will open the amusement center “Molly Fantasy” and children’s play venue “Nobikko Jumbo” simultaneously on the 2nd floor of 島忠ホームズ寝屋川店 in Neyagawa, Osaka Prefecture, on Nov. 19, 2026.
Learn from a leading expert, experience stereoscopic optical illusions with ease, and create your own original works!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A guidebook, How to Make Stereoscopic Optical Illusions, by leading expert in the field Sugihara Kōki, will be released by Seibundo Shinkosha on Nov. 6, 2026. It explains how to understand the principles of optical illusions through hands-on paper crafts and origami, and how to create original works.
Facts
List price: 2,750 yen (tax included)
B5 format, 160 pages
Release date: Friday, November 6, 2026
Graduated from 東京大学’s Department of Mathematical Engineering and Information Physics, Faculty of Engineering, in 1971
Completed a master’s course at the same university’s Graduate School of Engineering in 1973
Dance artists GANMI release new song “CAR CHASE,” taking on lyrics, composition and production!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Dance artists GANMI released their new song “CAR CHASE” on Oct. 28, 2026, with members taking on lyrics, composition and production. The collaboration with Bestted and Salajin is accompanied by the release of related live performance information.
Facts
11 GANMI members
Released on Oct. 28, 2026
Original卒業生3人組
Formed in 2015
Held in Los Angeles, U.S., in 2016
Across all 47 prefectures in 2019
All 47 prefectures nationwide
2021 BTS
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026
Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027
Saturday, Feb. 13, 2025
Companies mentioned：The Orchard Japan、TORA PROJECT、BTS、TOMORROW X TOGETHER、NCT U、Mrs. GREEN APPLE、SixTONES、Travis Japan、Nissy、AKB48、櫻坂46
“Space Pilot,” which debuted last year in 2025, announces its 5th new song, “ANEMONE,” and unveils its first artist photo!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Space Pilot,” a unit formed by Vocaloid producer Chinozo and singer Yoru, released its new song “ANEMONE” digitally on Oct. 28, 2026, 9 months after its debut, and unveiled its first artist photo.
Plush toys of earnest klutz Banyana and hot-blooded klutz Goma are back on sale! [Tokyo Banyana]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Two ball-chain plush toys from “Tokyo Banyana,” Banyana and Goma, jointly developed by 株式会社グレープストーン and CHOCOLATE Inc., will be back on sale in stores and online from Nov. 1, 2026.
[Is your cat’s care after age 7 on the right track?] A comprehensive guide to everything from anti-aging for a long, happy life to end-of-life care, What You Need to Know After Your Beloved Cat Turns 7, goes on sale Oct. 28 (Wed)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社主婦の友社 will release What You Need to Know After Your Beloved Cat Turns 7, an introductory guide covering care, anti-aging, nursing and end-of-life care for cats aged 7 and older, on Oct. 28, 2026.
Facts
A cat that has turned 7
More than 3分の1 of its life is the “senior years”
The average life expectancy of cats in 2025 was 16.00 years
Even if signs of aging begin at age 10
A long period of nearly 6 years
Progresses at approximately 4 times the speed of humans
[JAF Fukuoka] See, touch and experience “what if”! JAF to exhibit a booth at the Fukuoka City Disaster Preparedness Fair
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JAF福岡支部 will exhibit at the Fukuoka City Disaster Preparedness Fair, held at Fukuoka City Hall on Oct. 31, with a booth where visitors can simulate the water pressure against a car door when a vehicle is flooded.
“A Stitch in Time,” bringing clothes and craftwork from Ireland and Europe, opens its official online store. OPENING COUPON also available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社H.I.T. has opened “A Stitch in Time,” the official online store of its authorized dealership showcasing clothes and craftwork from Ireland and Europe. It carries brands including O’NEIL OF DUBLIN, COLD BREAKER and ARAN WOOLLEN MILズ, and is offering a 1,000-yen-off coupon valid on all products to celebrate the opening.
Facts
1859
¥1,000 OFF
10% OFF
Companies mentioned：株式会社H.I.T.、A Stitch in Time、O’NEIL OF DUBLIN、COLD BREAKER、ARAN WOOLLEN MILLS
AI phone service “Mirai AI” adds support for “dial pad operation” using touch-tone signals! Combining speech recognition and button operations to enhance the automatic completion of phone tasks such as identity verification and system inquiries
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ソフツー will add a dial pad operation feature using touch-tone signals to its AI phone service “Mirai AI” from Oct. 27, 2026, enhancing the automatic completion of phone tasks such as identity verification and system inquiries.
Facts
Starting Tuesday, October 27, 2026
30-day free demo
Capital: ¥20,000,000
Companies mentioned：株式会社ソフツー、Slack、LINE WORKS、Microsoft Teams
Docomo SMTB Net Bank accelerates the evolution of AI-powered customer interactions
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ドコモSMTBネット銀行 will put into full operation from September 2026 a cross-channel AI customer service platform for phone and chat using AWS’s “Amazon Connect Customer AI agents.” The platform aims to improve customer service quality and shorten response times.
“Chill+,” an experiential media platform where you can find “chill”: Bring your favorite places into everyday life. Collaboration goods from “サウナ＆カプセルホテル北欧” and “林檎の湯屋 おぶ～” are coming from “Chill+”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KNT-CTホールディングス株式会社’s experiential media platform “Chill+” will begin selling collaboration goods with サウナ＆カプセルホテル北欧 and 林檎の湯屋 おぶ～ on Oct. 28, 2026.
High school students present their policy proposals to the Tokyo deputy governor and digital minister—the 1st “Tokyo Policy Championship” draws 1,295 votes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
公益社団法人東京青年会議所 held the 1st Tokyo Policy Championship, a policy contest for high school students in Tokyo, and the winning team presented its policy proposal to the Tokyo deputy governor and digital minister.
Disclosing views on relocation while looking for a marriage partner leads to 2.5 times as many matchmaking requests and 2.0 times as many matches! Sharing conditions in advance encourages connections across regions
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社IBJ revealed through data analysis that registering and publishing the new “Views on Relocation” field added to its marriage agency system, IBJS, increases the number of matchmaking requests received by approximately 2.5 times and the number of matches made by approximately 2.0 times.
Facts
Number of matchmaking requests received: approximately 2.5 times
Be prepared, and have no worries. A new daily habit. “Block Barrier Gum,” formulated with sialic acid glycan substances, to launch in November 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
一般財団法人ウイルス感染予防研究所 will launch “Block Barrier Gum,” a chewing gum formulated with sialic acid glycan substances, in November 2026. The suggested retail price is 1,500 yen (before tax).
JR九州 × 住友商事 Group launch construction in Isahaya, Nagasaki Prefecture, on “でんきの駅 Isahaya,” the 3rd joint project
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
でんきの駅合同会社, funded by JR九州 and the 住友商事 Group, will begin preparatory construction in October 2026 on “でんきの駅 Isahaya,” its 3rd grid-scale battery storage project, in Isahaya, Nagasaki Prefecture. Operations are scheduled to begin in December 2028. It will have a rated output of 16 megawatts and storage capacity of 70 megawatt-hours, making it the company’s largest project.
Facts
Construction to begin in October 2026
Operations to begin in December 2028
Rated output: 16 megawatts
Storage capacity: 70 megawatt-hours
14 dedicated stationary battery systems to be installed
[Survey Report] Companies that closed in 2025: Tokyo accounted for 29.1%. Two profiles among closed companies: young firms less than 10 years old and long-established firms founded more than 30 years ago
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社FUTUREWOODS released the findings of a survey of 13,109 companies that closed in 2025. Tokyo accounted for 29.1%, lower than its share of newly established companies, while manufacturing and construction made up larger proportions. The survey identified “two profiles”: young companies less than 10 years old and long-established companies founded more than 30 years ago.
Hosnet Japan promotes nationwide rollout of cloud version of its “Medilia” inventory management system as it marks its 30th anniversary
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ホスネット・ジャパン announced that it will step up the nationwide rollout of “Medilia,” its cloud-based inventory management system, to mark its 30th anniversary in July 2026.
Tatami base “大の字” selected for “My Favorite Design,” part of the Good Design Award 2026 jury selection
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
嵯峨商事株式会社’s tatami base “大の字” received the 2026 Good Design Award and was also selected for “My Favorite Design,” the jury selection. The product reduces the use of fossil resources by 95%.
How many GB does a company smartphone need? レジットワン publishes a data allowance guide by industry, including real estate, construction and visiting services
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
レジットワン株式会社’s corporate low-cost SIM service, レジットモバイル, has published a guide to selecting data allowances by industry and occupation to help businesses choose plans for company smartphones.
[New Product] For people concerned about inadequate fish intake: “EPA1000,” containing 1,000 mg of the smooth-flowing component EPA from oily fish, launches
Former 広島東洋カープ player 宮﨑充登 to become battery coach for “日硝ハイウエーロジスティッカーズ”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社日硝ハイウエー announced that former 広島東洋カープ player 宮﨑充登 will join the company in January 2027 and become battery coach for its corporate baseball team, “日硝ハイウエーロジスティッカーズ,” effective February 1.
Facts
Will join the company in January 2027
Toward registration as a coach effective February 1
He appeared in 31 games for the first team in his first year with the club
[Free admission] “Little Mama Festa,” one of Japan’s largest parent-and-child festivals, attracting 300,000 visitors annually, to be held in 7 cities nationwide in November
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社エンファム will hold “Little Mama Festa,” an event for parents and children, in 7 cities nationwide in November. Admission is free, and the event is known as one of Japan’s largest parent-and-child festivals, attracting 300,000 visitors annually.