Overview

• The ordinance takes effect Oct. 1 and advises residents to keep recreational use of phones, tablets and games to two hours a day.
• The guidance excludes use for study, work or household tasks and includes no penalties or enforcement.
• The municipal assembly approved the measure by a 12–7 vote, describing it as the first local rule of its kind in Japan.
• For minors, it recommends device curfews of 9 p.m. for elementary pupils and 10 p.m. for junior high students and others under 18.
• City leaders cite sleep and family interaction as the rationale, plan parent consultation services and periodic reviews, and say the approach could guide other municipalities.