Understanding the Birth Rate in Japan

(Source: Unsplash)

Japan has one of the lowest birth rates in the world. Since records began in 1899, the number of births in Japan hit an all-time low in 2020. 

This trend of decline shows no sign of stopping. So, to better understand the low birth rate in Japan, let’s take a closer look at the statistics and reasons why Japanese families are choosing to have smaller families.

What is The Birth Rate in Japan?

In 2021, the birth rate in Japan was 1.38 births per woman. This is a slight nudge up from 2020, which saw a rate of 1.37, and 2019 with a rate of 1.36. 

In addition to a low birth rate, the average household size in Japan is shrinking.

The average today is 2.3 members per family (2020). Family size has shifted over the years, with the nuclear family rising as the most common household unit. 

How Does the Birth Rate Compare to the Rest of the World?

(Source: Statista)

The low birth rate in Japan follows the global trend of declining birth rates and family size.

Overall, Japan has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, marking the 11th lowest globally. 

Interestingly, Japan is also part of regional trends in East Asia, as other countries such as Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Macau, and Hong Kong also have some of the lowest birth rates in the world. 

How Has the Birth Rate Changed Over Time?

(Source: World Bank)

The birth rate in Japan has changed significantly since the early 1970s.

For example, in 1973, the birth rate per 1,000 people was 19.4. In 2019, that number dropped to a low of 7. 

This decline in recent decades follows the global downward trend in birth rate, especially in developed countries.

Take, for example, the U.S., which has seen the lowest birth rates in nearly 50 years. 

Why don’t Japanese Families Have More Kids?

(Source: Nippon)

Japanese young people cite similar reasons for having fewer kids as couples from other countries. 

First, Japanese couples are putting off marriage and starting a family.

As a result, the number of registered marriages dropped by 12.3% alone in 2020.

While the COVID pandemic can partially explain that dip, it doesn’t paint the whole picture. 

Other reasons that are impacting the decision to have fewer kids include the following:

• Women’s entry into the workplace and the traditional attitude that Japanese women should shoulder the burden of housework/child-rearing makes having a family and a career challenge.

• The rise of “irregular” jobs leads to economic insecurity. 40% of the Japanese workforce is considered “irregular,” defined as temporary and part-time work with low wages and few benefits.

• Harsh working conditions, even for good-paying jobs. Overwork is common in Japan, with little union involvement. The long hours can make it difficult for young people to date, let alone start families.

• The financial challenge of urban hubs. Over 90% of Japan’s population lives and works in urban areas, where it’s difficult for couples to handle having a child, mainly due to the cost of housing and living.

• A so-called “unromantic” attitude in young people. Research says that 31% of young people in Japan between 18-34 are virgins.

These are just some reasons why Japanese people don’t have more kids. However, every couple has specific grounds for family planning decisions.

What Will the Future of Family Size in Japan Look Like?

The number of births in Japan is predicted to keep declining. By 2082, the population is projected to drop to 64 million from 126 million in 2020.

(Source: Unsplash)

Japan’s birth rate and average family size have changed significantly recently. Financial reasons are the main driver behind the family size.

Still, other issues, such as the burden of housekeeping duties on women, are also influencing it. 

We’ll have to watch how the birth rate in Japan changes, especially as the population plunges in the coming decades.

While one-child families are becoming quite common, this could change with innovative programs such as the one in Nagi that pays a stipend for each child.

Here’s to hoping for a family-friendly future, regardless of the size!