Japan population falls below 124 million in record decline
Japan's Internal Affairs Ministry said the country's population has fallen to 123 million in the largest five-year decline on record, with officials noting that only Tokyo and Okinawa saw increases among 47 provinces and final data is expected by September.
Japan's population has fallen to just over 123 million in the largest five-year decline since records began, according to preliminary 2025 census data released by the Internal Affairs Ministry on Friday, marking the third consecutive drop since 2015.
Census records steepest population drop
The ministry said the population stood at 123,049,524 as of Oct. 1, 2025, down by more than 3 million people — or 2.5% — from the previous census conducted in 2020. The latest figures represent the third consecutive decline recorded by the national census, which has been conducted every five years since 1920.
Regional divides deepen
Only Tokyo and Okinawa reported population increases among Japan's 47 provinces, although growth slowed in both regions, the data showed. The remaining 45 provinces saw declines, with Hokkaido posting the largest decrease, according to NHK.
Advertisement
Household growth masks demographic shift
Despite the shrinking population, the number of households rose to a record 57.1 million while the average number of people per household fell from 2.26 to 2.15. Officials said the trend reflects a growing number of elderly people living alone, and the ministry is expected to release final census figures by September.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.