Summary
The number of births in Japan dropped below 710,000 in 2025, marking the lowest number since record-keeping started in 1899. This decline happened 17 years earlier than expected despite government measures to address the population issue. Marriage rates, however, have increased slightly, which may positively impact future birth rates.
Key Facts
- Japan had only 705,809 births in 2025, marking the lowest number since records began in 1899.
- Birth rates in Japan have been decreasing for ten consecutive years.
- The decrease in births in 2025 was 2.1% from the previous year, 2024.
- Japan's government had expected births to stay above 710,000 until 2042.
- The number of marriages in Japan increased to 505,656 in 2025, a 1.13% rise.
- The divorce rate in Japan decreased by 3.68% to 182,969.
- Around 30% of Japan’s population is 65 years or older, highlighting its aging society.
- Japan is taking steps to support young families and increase incomes among younger people to address the population decline.
