Japan's newspaper crisis: Losing readers, relevance and the next generation
Circulation is dropping. Trust is fading. And Japan's major newspapers are struggling to connect with younger readers who now get their headlines from platforms like Line, YouTube and even TikTok.
In this edition of Japan Today Spotlight, we look at how Japan's once-powerful dailies — including the Yomiuri, Asahi and Mainichi — are facing a slow decline. From outdated digital strategies to an aging subscriber base, the print giants are falling behind in a media world that now runs on swipes and scrolls.
We also revisit past Spotlight episodes that exposed deeper problems in the industry, including the Fuji TV–Masahiro Nakai scandal and how major outlets ignored Shiori Ito's story until it gained global attention.
What do you think — is there still a place for Japan's legacy media, or has the news already moved on?
Chapters:
0:00 Topic overview
0:49 The fall
3:16 Old habits, aging audience
5:34 The trust gap
6:58 So, what now?
7:58 Outro
Japan Today sources:
See the Japan Today Spotlight series:
Join the conversation!
Japan's newspapers are losing readers fast — but the appetite for information hasn't disappeared. Where are you getting your headlines in 2025? Let us know in the comments.
Don't forget to like, subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an update on Japan's biggest news stories on our YouTube channel:
If you found this episode thought-provoking, check out our other deep dives into Japan's media landscape and our past coverage of:
Follow us for more updates:
The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of GPlusMedia, Inc.
© Japan Today
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
SoraNews24
an hour ago
- SoraNews24
Gacha capsule toy machine you control with your brain/prayers created in Japan【Video】
Designers want Mushin Gacha in arcades, anime specialty shops, and character cafes. We're in a gacha capsule toy golden age in Japan right now, with an unprecedented variety of items available to suit just about every interest and aesthetic taste. But while toy designers are constantly coming up with new prizes to stock gacha machines with, the purchasing process has changed very little: toss your coins into the slot, then turn the handle until a capsule drops for you. But what if instead of turning the handle with your hand, you could turn it with your mind? That's the idea behind Mushin Gacha, a new type of capsule toy machine dreamed up by Tokyo-based neurotechnology and AI research/solutions company Araya. 'Mushin' has a number of possible meanings, but among them are associations with innocence or desire, and those are aspects of the mental state you must achieve to get their Mushin Gacha prize capsule to drop. ▼ Mushin Gacha demonstration video Users don an electroencephalograph head sensor which measures their brain's current level of alpha waves, said to be produced when the mind is in a relaxed state. At the same time, a camera equipped with AI image recognition software will check to see if you've got your hands clasped in a 'please give me a gacha capsule' pose. Fulfilling those conditions, showing an unabashed genuine desire, will activate the Mushin Gacha's motor, causing it to drop your prize capsule. ▼ If you're wondering why it needs a crank at all, it's because gacha is the onomatopoeia of the clunking noise it makes as it turns, so it'd be weird to make a gacha machine without that traditional aural factor, even if it's so cutting-edge you operate it with your brain. Araya says it hopes to install Mushin Gacha machines at video game arcades, anime/manga specialty stores, shopping center game corners, fan events, popup stores, and themed cafes. The preview images show a 'Please insert coin' message on the screen, but it's not clear what happens if you don't achieve the right combination of prayer pose and alpha waves right away. Theoretically, operators could set it to so that players have an unlimited amount of time/number of chances to keep trying in, or perhaps could set a time limit after which no prize is won and the player needs to step aside and let someone else have a turn. Although the unit in the preview video is made out of cardboard, it feels like a safe bet that that's just a pre-production mockup, and that a more substantial and high-tech housing is in the works, and perhaps something Araya has in the works for its upcoming demonstration for visitors at this year's Tokyo Game Show in September. Source: PR Times Top image: PR Times Insert images: YouTube/Araya Inc., PR Times ● Want to hear about SoraNews24's latest articles as soon as they're published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Kyodo News
2 days ago
- Kyodo News
"Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Double Theme Song by Aimer and LiSA, Single CDs Released!
Blockbuster movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" has released single CDs for its two theme songs, performed by Aimer and LiSA! This announcement was accompanied by comments from both artists, as well as messages from Go Shiina and Yuki Kajiura, who were responsible for the music production. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the music videos for both songs will premiere on the official YouTube channel. CD Release Confirmed for Two Theme Songs! "Demon Slayer," a manga from Koyoharu Gotouge and published by Shueisha's Jump Comics, has sold over 220 million copies of volumes 1-23. The anime adaptation is produced by ufotable. Its newest installment, the movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" premiered in Japan on Friday, July 18. Now, the movie's two theme songs has been released as single CDs on Wednesday, July 23 (Japan Time)! Aimer and LiSA, both of whom have previously performed theme songs for the "Demon Slayer" anime, are responsible for these new tracks. Aimer's "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" features lyrics by Hikaru Kondo, the general producer of the "Demon Slayer" anime at ufotable. Go Shiina, who composed the background music for the anime, handled the music and arrangement. This majestic theme combines a rich, grand orchestra with Aimer's powerful vocals. Meanwhile, LiSA's "Shine in the Cruel Night" was composed and written by Yuki Kajiura, also known for her background music in the "Demon Slayer" anime. This powerful track, another collaboration between LiSA and Yuki Kajiura, creates a grand and dynamic world view, echoing their previous successful theme songs for the series. Artist and creator comments were released alongside the singles. Comments from Artists and Creators Aimer's Comment: This song was lovingly entrusted to me by Go Shiina-san and Hikaru Kondo-san, who have been deeply involved with the anime "Demon Slayer." I sang with my own "total concentration," hoping my song could support the destiny of those who transform their individual sorrows into strength as they leap into the final phase. I hope this song reaches you, who are still fighting in a "world where the sun never rises." Go Shiina's Comment: This song came to life with the invaluable support of many, led by Aimer-san, and including lyricists, arrangers, performers, engineers, and staff. Witnessing Aimer-san's deeply emotional vocal recording alongside the visuals ignited my fighting spirit, compelling me to share this song without delay. Immerse yourself in Aimer-san's multifaceted voice, featuring up to 12 vocal layers. Her range, from the lowest to the highest notes, offers a kaleidoscope of expression. Additionally, I hope you enjoy discovering the various "Demon Slayer" themes woven throughout the song. LiSA's Comment: I am on my way to "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" alongside Yuki Kajiura-san, who has graced us with numerous songs for "Demon Slayer." To everyone who is fighting: I sang with prayers and wishes. This is "Shine in the Cruel Night." Yuki Kajiura's Comment: It is a profound honor to have co-created the theme song for "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" with LiSA-san. Given how deeply this song is connected to the story, we worked meticulously to ensure its alignment with the narrative while also crafting a piece that LiSA-san could deliver with immense power and emotion. My hope is that this music will both enrich the story and, as a song performed by LiSA-san, uplift your spirits." Music Videos for Two Theme Songs Set to Premiere on YouTube! Music videos for two theme songs are scheduled to premiere on YouTube in the evening of Thursday, July 24th! Moreover, leading up to these MV releases, a special event titled "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" has been announced! This event, featuring a back-to-back showcase of music videos from past Demon Slayer series theme songs, will be held on YouTube starting at 7 PM (JST) on Thursday, July 24th. Aimer: " A World Where the Sun Never Rises" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:45 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) LiSA: "Shine in the Cruel Night" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:50 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" *Starting at 7:00 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) Product Information The single CDs featuring the main theme songs will be released simultaneously on Wednesday, July 23rd (Japan Time)! The Limited Edition for both singles come with a mini poster featuring exclusive "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" artwork and are packaged in a three-sided case! Aimer's single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" comes in a three-sided case with newly drawn artwork of the character "Shinobu Kocho," while LiSA's single "Shine in the Cruel Night" features exclusive artwork of "Giyu Tomioka." Both limited editions are luxurious packages that include a Blu-ray Disc containing the music video for each theme song. Release Information Aimer Single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Release Information Title: A World Where the Sun Never Rises Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2751-2752: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. A World Where the Sun Never Rises (Lyrics: Hikaru Kondo (ufotable), Music: Go Shiina, Arrangement: Go Shiina, Sachiko Miyano) 02. A World Where the Sun Never Rises -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2750: ¥1,430 (tax included) LiSA Single "Shine in the Cruel Night" Release Information Title: Shine in the Cruel Night Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "Shine in the Cruel Night" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2754-2755: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. Shine in the Cruel Night (Lyrics: Yuki Kajiura, Music: Yuki Kajiura, Arrangement: Yuki Kajiura) 02. Shine in the Cruel Night -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "Shine in the Cruel Night" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2753: ¥1,430 (tax included) About "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Synopsis Tanjiro Kamado – a boy who joined an organization dedicated to hunting down demons called the Demon Slayer Corps after his younger sister Nezuko was turned into a demon. While growing stronger and deepening his friendships and bonds with fellow corps members, Tanjiro has battled many demons with his comrades, Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira. Along the way, his journey has led him to fight alongside the Demon Slayer Corps' highest-ranking swordsmen, the Hashira, including Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku aboard the Mugen Train, Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui within the Entertainment District, as well as Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito and Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji at the Swordsmith Village. As the Demon Slayer Corps members and Hashira engaged in a group strength training program, the Hashira Training, in preparation for the forthcoming battle against the demons, Muzan Kibutsuji appears at the Ubuyashiki Mansion. With the head of the Demon Corps in danger, Tanjiro and the Hashira rush to the headquarters but are plunged into a deep descent to a mysterious space by the hands of Muzan Kibutsuji. The destination of where Tanjiro and Demon Slayer Corps have fallen is the demons' stronghold – the Infinity Castle. And so, the battleground is set as the final battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and the Demons ignites. Cast Tanjiro Kamado: Natsuki Hanae Nezuko Kamado: Akari Kito Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hiro Shimono Inosuke Hashibira: Yoshitsugu Matsuoka Kanao Tsuyuri: Reina Ueda Genya Shinazugawa: Nobuhiko Okamoto Giyu Tomioka: Takahiro Sakurai Tengen Uzui: Katsuyuki Konishi Muichiro Tokito: Kengo Kawanishi Shinobu Kocho: Saori Hayami Mitsuri Kanroji: Kana Hanazawa Obanai Iguro: Kenichi Suzumura Sanemi Shinazugawa: Tomokazu Seki Gyomei Himejima: Tomokazu Sugita Akaza (Upper Rank Three): Akira Ishida ©Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable ※Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
Tokyo Weekender
3 days ago
- Tokyo Weekender
Nuisance YouTuber Hezumaryu Elected in Nara City Council Election
Former nuisance YouTuber Masahiro Harada, more commonly known as Hezumaryu, was elected for the first time in the Nara City Council election on Sunday. A total of 55 candidates ran in the election, with the 39 seats up for grabs. Harada finished third overall, with 8,320 votes. The 34-year-old received his official election certificate at a ceremony at Nara City Hall on Monday. List of Contents: 'Get Out of Nara' Campaigning as Hezumaryu Related Posts 'Get Out of Nara' Known for his prank videos and for shouting a t strangers , Harada said it was he who was yelled at while campaigning, with people telling him to 'get out of Nara.' This, though , didn 't dissuade him from running in the election. Instead of giving speeches on the streets, he decided to campaign on social networking sites and by going around in a campaign car. Speaking on the day he received his certificate, Harada promised he would do his best not to make mistakes. 'I'm getting a lot of attention from the media, and my influence has grown to an astonishing extent,' he said . 'Since I've received so much support, I want to do my best , so I don't disappoint people's expectations.' He added, 'I won't go back to being a nuisance. I won't ignite firestorms.' Campaigning as Hezumaryu Harada's campaign mainly focused on deer at Nara Park and how they should be protected. He also called for the installation of security cameras and trash cans in the park. His high-profile status as Hezumaryu on social media helped get his message across to large numbers. 'In the age of social media, name recognition is what matters,' said XCom Global founder Seiji Nishimura following Harada's triumph. Harada is infamous for his YouTube pranks, some of which led to him being arrested. He was taken in for questioning on multiple occasions in 2020 for various misdemeanors, such as attempting to return a T-shirt to a store in Osaka by falsely claiming it was a knock-off brand and laying a futon in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble intersection. He also recently gained attention for loudly shouting at foreign tourists in Nara Park. Related Posts LDP-Led Coalition Lose Upper House Majority, Ishiba Vows To Continue as Prime Minister Sanseito Explained: The Alarming Rise of Japan's Far-Right Movement A Record 42 Women Win Seats in Upper House Election
