The city of Toyoake in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan (with a population of around 69,000) is considering a novel, non-binding ordinance urging residents to limit personal smartphone use to just two hours per day outside of work or school. The draft, proposed by Mayor Masafumi Koki, aims to curb the growing physical and mental health issues linked to excessive device usage—such as sleep disturbances, truancy, and weakened family interaction.
Should the ordinance pass a city assembly vote slated for late September 2025, it would take effect in October. While no fines or enforcement mechanisms are attached, the measure encourages elementary school children to avoid screen time after 9 p.m., and teenagers and adults after 10 p.m. The goal is to spark family discussions on healthier digital habits, rather than impose strict behavioral controls.
The response has been overwhelmingly critical—80% of public feedback during consultations was negative. Residents widely labeled the limit unrealistic and intrusive, with one remarking that “two hours isn’t even enough to read a book or watch a movie” on a smartphone. Supporters, however, see it as a bold step toward addressing rising anxiety about screen addiction across age groups.
Toyoake’s initiative reflects mounting global concern over digital well-being. Recent stats from Japan’s Children and Families Agency show youth spend over five hours online daily on weekdays—a figure linked to mental health strains. While voluntary, Toyoake’s proposal could signal a broader cultural shift toward mindful tech use—a debate already taking shape in countries like South Korea, Brazil, France, and Australia.
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