With Japan’s birthrate at an all-time low, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is working on an app called “Tokyo Futari Story” or “Tokyo Couple Story”. The app is expected to launch this summer and, together with dating events organised by the Tokyo City Hall, has the clear aim of boosting marriage and childbirth rates.
“We learned that 70% of people who want to get married aren’t actively joining events or apps to look for a partner”, a Tokyo government official, in charge of the new app, said. “We want to give them a gentle push to find one.”
According to the Japan Times, the app will be asking very specific and personal questions of those wanting to use it. For example, users will have to submit documentation proving they are legally single and, before being able to use the app, they will have to sign a letter stating they are willing to get married. Moreover, a tax certificate slip to prove the annual salary will be mandatory. Based on all the personal information, the app will connect users to a potential match.
“Based on your values and the values you seek in a partner, which can be determined by taking a diagnostic test, AI will introduce you to a compatible person,” the app’s website explains. “What cannot be measured by appearance or conditions alone may lead to unexpected encounters.”
The news of the app comes at a moment where Japan recorded twice as many deaths as births over the last year. While 1,590,503 people passed away, only 758,631 were born. For comparison, in the 1970’s, around 2,000,000 babies were born each year in Japan. With 474,717 marriages in 2023 compared to 504,930 in 2022, marriage numbers are also decreasing.
In another attempt to boost childbirth, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has previously promised special policies, including financial aid for families, easier child care access and more parental leave for those wanting to start a family.
