Japanese Media: Japan's Total Population Continues to Decline for 17 Consecutive Years

According to Kyodo News, on July 30: On the 29th, Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications released population data as of January 1 of this year.

Japan's population decreased by 916,744 people (0.76%) compared to the previous year, dropping to 119,736,483, marking the 17th consecutive year of decline. This decrease is the largest in history, with the total population now falling below 120 million.

The number of foreign residents increased by 353,696 people (9.62%) year-on-year, reaching 4,031,159—its highest level since statistical records began in 2013, surpassing four million.

Since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023, the foreign population has continued to grow. In 2025, the number of people migrating from overseas reached 720,988, setting a new record.

By prefecture, Tokyo saw growth for the third consecutive year, while 46 prefectures experienced declines. Tokyo increased by 12,540 people (0.09%), reaching 13,293,851, accounting for 11.10% of the national total. The largest decline was in Akita Prefecture, down by 1.95%, followed by Aomori and Kochi, both declining by 1.70%.

In 2025, Japan recorded a new low in births with 670,467. Deaths totaled 1,593,475, resulting in a "natural decrease" where deaths exceeded births by 923,008.

Among all prefectures, none showed natural population growth. Seven prefectures experienced "social growth," meaning more people moved in than moved out, led by Tokyo with 66,661 net inflows.

The total population, including both Japanese and foreign residents, stood at 123,767,642, a decrease of 563,048 people (0.45%) compared to last year. The combined population of Japan's three major metropolitan areas—Tokyo, Nagoya, and Kansai—reached 65,979,272. Despite six consecutive years of decline, they still account for over half of the country’s total population.

Among prefectures, three saw overall population increases. Tokyo's population reached 14,077,553, up 75,019 (0.54%) compared to the same period last year. Osaka had 8,775,326 people, an increase of 3,365 (0.04%); Chiba had 6,313,748 people, up 2,169 (0.03%).

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872095444085770/

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