Japan Lost 3M People in Five Years

5 hours ago

Japan's population decreased by over 3 million from 2020 to 2025, reaching 123 million, marking the largest decline since census records began in 1920.
The country's population peaked in 2008 at 128 million and is projected to drop to 87 million by 2070, with a birth rate among the world's lowest.
Demographic decline is widespread, affecting 45 of 47 prefectures, with northern areas like Akita and Aomori seeing an 8% decrease due to aging and youth outmigration.
Rural areas are hollowing out as youth move to cities like Tokyo, leading to vacant homes, closed train lines, and schools converted to nursing homes.
Immigration could offset declines, but Japan's cautious approach and nationalist 'Japan First' agenda limit this solution.
Tokyo's metropolitan area grew slightly to 37 million, accounting for 30% of Japan's population, driven by young workers and students.
The crisis strains economic growth, healthcare, and labor supply, with future challenges including worker shortages and tax base erosion.
Experts note that Japan's fertility promotion efforts have failed, positioning it as a harbinger for other developed nations facing similar demographic headwinds.

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