Key Facts
• On September 3, 2025, Yamagata’s Minimum Wage Council proposed a wage hike.
• Minimum wage to increase from 955 yen to 1,032 yen, a 77-yen rise.
• The 8.06% increase surpasses last year’s 55-yen hike.
• This marks the first time Yamagata’s minimum wage exceeds 1,000 yen.
• The new wage will take effect on December 23, 2025.
• The council includes labor representatives, employers, and public interest members.
• Discussions extended to eight sessions due to disagreements between labor and employers.
• The decision was delayed twice, originally planned for August 26, 2025.
• Employers must pay wages above the new minimum after it takes effect.
• The increase reflects national guidelines and local economic conditions.
Summary
Yamagata’s Minimum Wage Council has recommended raising the prefecture’s minimum wage from 955 yen to 1,032 yen, marking a historic 77-yen increase and an 8.06% rise. This is the first time the minimum wage in Yamagata will exceed 1,000 yen since the hourly wage system began in 2002. The new rate, effective December 23, 2025, follows extended discussions between labor and employer representatives, which required eight sessions and two delays due to significant disagreements. The council’s decision considers national guidelines, statistical data, and local economic realities. Employers will be legally obligated to comply with the new wage once it is implemented.
