The child population in Japan has decreased to approximately 13.29 million as of April 1, marking a decline of 350,000 from the previous year and setting a new record low. This decline represents the 45th consecutive year of decrease. The ratio of children under 15 years old has dropped by 0.3 percentage points to 10.8% of the total population, the lowest since data collection began in 1950.
The figures, which include foreign residents, were derived from population estimates obtained during the national census conducted every five years. Despite various efforts by the Japanese government, such as increased financial aid for families with children, the population decline trend has persisted for 45 years. To combat the declining birthrate, Japan has designated the period until 2030 as a “final opportunity to reverse the trend.”
According to the data, there were 6.81 million boys and 6.48 million girls in Japan. Among them, 3.09 million children were aged between 12-14 years, while 2.13 million were in the zero to two years age group, indicating a trend of fewer births. The number of children born in Japan in 2025, including foreign residents, hit a record low of 705,809, marking a decline for the 10th consecutive year.
The child population in Japan has been on a decline since 1982, following its peak in 1954 at 29.89 million. The ratio of children has been decreasing for the 52nd consecutive year since 1975. In February, Japan’s health ministry reported that the number of children born in 2025 decreased to 705,809, the lowest since data collection began in 1899, marking a new low for the 10th consecutive year. This decline is attributed to Japan’s aging population and concerns about the cost of raising children amidst inflation.
