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Toyoake: The Japanese city that wants to limit cell phone use to two hours a day

10 hours ago
https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-01/toyoake-the-japanese-city-that-wants-to-limit-cell-phone-use-to-two-hours-a-day.html
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  • #smartphone-regulation
  • #Japan
  • #public-health
  • Toyoake, Japan, proposes limiting smartphone use to two hours a day outside work/school.
  • The non-binding ordinance aims to address health issues from excessive device use.
  • Elementary students advised to avoid smartphones after 9 p.m.; older students after 10 p.m.
  • Mayor clarifies the measure encourages family discussions, not enforcement or penalties.
  • Public feedback shows 80% opposition, citing freedom concerns, while some support the idea.
  • Smartphone use for non-recreational activities (e.g., learning, cooking) exempt from the limit.
  • Japanese youth average five hours online daily; 65% of 10-year-olds own smartphones.
  • Precedent: Kagawa’s 2020 gaming limits for minors, upheld as constitutional in 2022.
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