Society Marriage ice age: lowest number in 90 years

In 2023, Japan witnessed a significant decline in the number of marriages, marking a notable shift. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is set to release marriage data for that year, and it's anticipated that the total number of marriages (excluding foreign couples) will be approximately 476,000, reflecting a 5.8% decrease compared to the previous year. This decline is particularly striking because it's likely the first time in 90 years that the annual marriage count has dipped below 500,000. The challenges posed by the pandemic and financial uncertainties have weighed heavily on young people's minds, making it more difficult to find their soulmates. This trend is evident in the shrinking number of unions. The current figure is nearly 200,000 fewer marriages than a decade ago. The changing landscape of relationships and societal factors continue to shape marriage patterns in Japan.

If that estimate holds true, it will be the first time since 1933 that the number falls below 500,000. In 1933, Japan's population was roughly half what it is today and people were marrying younger at an average age of 25 -- about 5 years younger than first marriages today. [...] A new bill expanding measures to reverse the country's declining birthrate includes enhanced child allowances and child care leave benefits, and will cost 3.6 trillion yen (about $24 billion) per year as of fiscal 2026. Officials emphasized the size of the bill puts Japan on par with Sweden, which is near the top of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's rankings in terms of public spending per child as a percentage of gross domestic product.

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Around 98% of Japan's births are to married couples, so changes in the number of marriages directly affect the number of births. In France and Norway, around 60% of children are born out of wedlock.

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Here's some hope for those who wish to tie the knot: a new app brings together potential couples with similar preferences for a home, taking them to a property viewing on their first date.

The Japanese real estate company, Open House Group, aims to facilitate home purchases by connecting individuals with similar lifestyle aspirations. Launched in January, this service pairs potential homebuyers based on their preferences and needs. During registration, users specify whether they own a home or rent, along with mortgage or rent payments. They express their desires for a new home (such as a detached house or condominium) and outline their preferred price range. Crucial factors like location, layout, or price are considered. An Open House employee then searches for compatible matches at no cost. The prospective couple's first meeting occurs in an "ideal home" that aligns with their specified conditions.

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And, we're going to a wedding this Sunday--they're both a little older, no idea of their 'family' plans.