Town in Japan pursues decreasing phone reliance

Toyoake, Japan, Proposes Non-Binding Ordinance to Limit Mobile Phone Use

In a bid to address growing concerns over the impact of technology on health and daily life, the town of Toyoake in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, is planning to introduce a non-binding ordinance to limit mobile phone use. If approved, Toyoake would become one of the first places in Japan to adopt such a measure.

The proposal, spearheaded by Mayor Masafumi Koki, aims to spark reflection and encourage residents to reconsider their reliance on devices. The draft ordinance suggests curfews for mobile phone use, with primary school children advised to put down their phones after 9 p.m., and middle school, high school students, and adults encouraged to stop by 10 p.m.

However, the measure has sparked debate. Parents are questioning how the restrictions could be applied in modern life, where smartphones are often essential for communication, navigation, and entertainment. Some argue that without any enforcement mechanism, the ordinance may do little to change behavior, and could instead fuel debate over the role of government in private routines.

Critics fear the regulation may become symbolic rather than effective, with little impact on behavior. The main concerns raised by opponents are that a two-hour daily limit is impractical and unnecessarily intrusive. Approximately 80% of local residents have expressed opposition to the proposed ordinance.

Despite the opposition, supporters of the ordinance believe it could help raise awareness and prompt families to discuss their own boundaries around technology. Mayor Masafumi Koki stated that the proposal is not intended to punish anyone, but to draw attention to issues such as sleep disturbance, physical inactivity, and behavioral problems linked to prolonged screen time.

The curfew measures are intended to improve sleep patterns and reduce late-night dependence on screens. The ultimate goal of the ordinance is to promote healthier lifestyles and protect the wellbeing of families. Toyoake hopes to start a community-wide conversation rather than dictate strict rules by framing the ordinance as guidance rather than law.

The initiative in Toyoake is likely to attract national attention and could influence other municipalities considering ways to address screen overuse. The proposed ordinance does not specify any penalties for failing to comply with the suggested curfew times. Instead, it is intended to serve as guidance rather than enforceable law.

The ordinance is scheduled to be discussed by the city assembly in October 2025. The debate over the ordinance reflects wider anxieties in Japan about the physical and psychological effects of smartphones on younger generations. Regardless of the outcome, the discussion in Toyoake is a significant step towards addressing the challenges and opportunities that come with regulating digital habits in everyday life.

Town in Japan pursues decreasing phone reliance