Japanese Town Proposes Strict Two-Hour Daily Smartphone Use Limits

A town in Japan has proposed a controversial new guideline for its residents. Officials in Toyoake want people to limit smartphone use to just two hours per day. The proposal aims to combat online addiction and its associated health problems.

The draft ordinance was announced by the municipal government in Aichi prefecture. It is currently under discussion and could take effect as soon as October.

Toyoake’s Proposal Targets All Age Groups

The proposed rules apply to everyone, not just children. Primary school students and younger kids are urged to avoid devices after 9 PM. Teenagers and adults are asked to stop using smartphones after 10 PM.

According to The Guardian, Mayor Masafumi Koki stated the goal is to prevent health issues. He cited problems like sleep disorders linked to excessive screen time. The ordinance is non-binding, meaning no penalties will enforce the limits.

Public Backlash and Criticism of the Plan

The proposal has faced significant criticism from Toyoake’s 69,000 residents. Many view it as an attack on personal freedom and modern life. Others simply called the two-hour limit impossible to follow in today’s connected world.

Local newspaper Mainichi Shimbun reported overwhelming public disapproval. Officials received 83 critical phone calls and 44 emails in just four days. Approximately 80% of the feedback opposed the measure, highlighting a major communication gap.

This initiative reflects a growing global concern about digital wellness. Other regions in Japan have introduced similar non-binding rules for children’s gaming time. Toyoake’s proposal is unique for targeting an entire community across all age groups.

The debate in Toyoake highlights a universal struggle to balance technology with wellbeing. While the intention is to promote health, enforcing such strict smartphone use limits remains a deeply complex challenge for any community.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Is the two-hour smartphone limit a law?

No, it is not a law. The proposed ordinance is completely non-binding. There are no fines or penalties for residents who choose to use their devices for longer.

Q2: Why did Toyoake propose this rule?

Town officials proposed the rule to address growing concerns about online addiction. They aim to prevent associated physical and mental health issues, especially sleep problems caused by late-night screen use.

Q3: How have residents reacted to the proposal?

The reaction has been largely negative. Most residents criticized the measure, calling it an infringement on personal freedom and an unrealistic goal for daily life.

Q4: Are there any exceptions to the time limits?

The proposal does not specify official exceptions. However, its non-binding nature means it serves as a strong recommendation rather than a strict rule for all situations.

Q5: Has any other place in Japan done this?

Yes, but not to this extent. A region in western Japan previously set limits on children’s gaming time. Toyoake’s proposal is the first to target an entire town’s general smartphone use.

Trusted Sources: The Guardian, Mainichi Shimbun