On September 29, 2026, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications released the final results of the 2025 National Census. The figures starkly confirmed a reality many of us had sensed: Japan’s total population stands at 122,972,528, a decrease of approximately 3.17 million from the previous survey—a 2.5% decline, the largest since the census began in 1920. Hokkaido’s decline was nearly double the national average, at 4.7%, with a loss of approximately 244,000 people, the largest decrease among all prefectures. Hokkaido’s population now stands at 4.98 million, falling below 5 million for the first time in 70 years.
What do these numbers mean to you? You might think, “Not another story about population decline.” However, as a specialist in visa and residence status applications, I believe this reality holds far greater significance than mere statistics. It concerns the future of Japan as a nation, our daily lives, and even national security.
What the Shift in Age Composition Means
Hokkaido’s demographic composition reveals an even more serious reality. The proportion of residents under 15 years old fell to 9.5%, dropping below 10% for the first time, while those 65 and older reached a record high of 33.5%. In other words, there are now approximately three times as many elderly residents as children.
This age structure signifies a rapid decline in the working-age population. Agriculture, fisheries, food processing, tourism, and emerging advanced industries—all require workers, yet there is a critical shortage of labor.
Hokkaido is a vital food production base for Japan. While Japan’s food self-sufficiency rate (on a calorie basis) is approximately 38%, Hokkaido plays a central role in maintaining this level. If Hokkaido’s agriculture and fisheries decline due to labor shortages, it would directly threaten Japan’s food security.
Tourism is equally important. As inbound demand recovers, Hokkaido attracts many foreign tourists with its unique appeal. Tourism is a pillar of foreign currency acquisition and a crucial industry supporting the Japanese economy. Furthermore, advanced semiconductor industries, such as Rapidus in Chitose City, are essential for maintaining Japan’s technological capabilities and international competitiveness.
All of these industries require human resources. But those resources are simply not available.
Even Sapporo City Faces Population Decline—The Limits of “Increasing the Japanese Population Alone”
One particularly noteworthy finding in this census is that Sapporo City experienced a population decline for the first time since the survey began. Sapporo’s population now stands at approximately 1.96 million, down by about 11,000 from the previous survey. Even Sapporo, the only city in Hokkaido that had consistently grown, has now entered a phase of decline.
Asahikawa City’s population decreased by approximately 24,000 to 305,000, ranking 11th nationally in terms of population loss. Hakodate City lost about 20,000 residents, bringing its population to 230,000, ranking 15th nationwide. The depopulation of regional cities is now an unavoidable reality.
However, there is also noteworthy data: nine municipalities in Hokkaido saw population increases. These include Shimukappu Village (13.8% increase), Nanporo Town (7.7% increase), and Niseko Town (4.9% increase). Chitose City, where the Rapidus factory is located, also saw a slight increase of 0.1%.
What these areas have in common is an increase in foreign residents. While detailed data has not been released, it is clear that the influx of foreign residents, particularly in places like Niseko Town, has contributed to population growth.
The idea of “increasing the population with Japanese people alone” has reached its limits. Improving the birth rate takes time, and there are no immediate solutions. Therefore, the realistic option is to explore how to achieve coexistence with foreign workers and residents.
Coexistence with Foreign Residents is a National Strategy Beyond Regional Issues
I believe that building a co-existing society with foreign residents is no longer merely a regional issue—it is a national strategy. The reasons are as follows:
1. Maintaining Food Security
If Hokkaido’s agriculture, fisheries, and food processing industries decline due to labor shortages, Japan’s food self-sufficiency will fall, posing a national security risk. Accepting foreign workers is a practical means of averting this crisis.
2. Foreign Currency Acquisition and Economic Growth
The tourism industry supports inbound demand and is a crucial industry for earning foreign currency. Foreign workers supporting the tourism sector contribute to the growth of Japan’s overall economy.
3. Maintaining Competitiveness in Advanced Industries
Advanced industries, such as semiconductors, require highly skilled personnel. Accepting foreign engineers and researchers is essential for maintaining Japan’s international competitiveness.
4. Revitalization of Local Communities
As seen in Shimukappu Village and Niseko Town, the increase in foreign residents can bring new vitality to local areas. Diversity brings new value to communities.
Challenges Faced by Businesses and Foreign Residents—The Importance of Residence Status Applications
However, accepting foreign workers requires numerous legal procedures and preparations. Obtaining residence status, renewing visas, bringing family members to Japan, and providing life support—all of these can be significant burdens for both businesses and foreign individuals.
In particular, residence status applications are complex, requiring the preparation of necessary documents, drafting of application statements, and communication with immigration authorities. If there are any deficiencies, the application may be rejected, posing a significant risk for both businesses and foreign individuals.
This is why expert support is crucial. Administrative scriveners like us handle residence status application procedures on behalf of businesses and foreign individuals, ensuring that they can work and live in Japan with peace of mind.
Conclusion—Now is the Time to Seriously Consider a “Future of Living Together”
Hokkaido’s population decline is a microcosm of the challenges facing all of Japan. With a shortage of workers to support food production, tourism, and advanced industries, building a co-existing society with foreign workers and residents is no longer an option—it is a necessity.
Improving the residence status system, strengthening corporate acceptance structures, and promoting multiculturalism in local communities—all of these will form the foundation supporting Japan’s future. In the face of population decline, now is the time to seriously consider and act toward a “future of living together.”
We are fully committed to supporting foreign residents in Japan and businesses that employ foreign workers. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Reference Article:
https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/22005cafdc552402b2350fe0169bf11d507a12a5
