Key Facts
• August 25, 2025: Toyoake City proposed a ‘2-hour smartphone ordinance’ to the council.
• Ordinance suggests limiting non-work/study smartphone use to 2 hours daily.
• Mayor Masanori Koifu aims to encourage citizens to reassess smartphone habits.
• Public reactions are mixed: high school students and some adults oppose the ordinance.
• Supporters believe it promotes awareness and benefits families with children.
• Approximately 90 inquiries received, with 90% of calls from outside the city opposing the ordinance.
• The ordinance includes no penalties and focuses on voluntary compliance.
• Toyoake City Council vote scheduled for September 22, 2025.
• If passed, the ordinance will take effect on October 1, 2025.
• Experts suggest parents and children co-create smartphone usage rules for better adherence.
Summary
Toyoake City, Aichi Prefecture, has proposed a ‘2-hour smartphone ordinance’ to limit non-essential smartphone use to two hours daily. Mayor Masanori Koifu introduced the measure to address societal issues like reduced communication and sleep deprivation caused by excessive smartphone use. Public opinion is divided, with some residents opposing the ordinance as overly restrictive, while others see it as a positive step toward raising awareness. The ordinance, which lacks penalties, has drawn significant attention, with 90% of external feedback opposing it. The city council, where the mayor’s policies generally find support, will vote on September 22, 2025. If approved, the ordinance will be implemented on October 1, 2025. Experts emphasize the importance of families collaboratively setting smartphone usage rules to foster mutual understanding and adherence.
