The Japanese city of Toyoake has passed a symbolic ordinance limiting recreational smartphone use to two hours a day, aiming to improve citizens’ sleep, particularly for students after summer vacation. The ordinance, reported by The Register, states that its primary purpose is to ensure all citizens receive adequate sleep. Council documents note that many Japanese people disregard Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare recommendations to spend six to eight hours daily on sleep. An accompanying FAQ [PDF] provides further clarification, explaining that the Council passed the measure because students returning to school after summer vacation often need a nudge to re-establish an appropriate daily routine. The ordinance highlights that excessive phone use can negatively impact daily and social life for users and their families, and suggests that the two-hour guideline might offer a solution. Council documents also make it clear that smartphones have numerous uses beyond recreation, and the ordinance is not intended to reduce overall device use. Toyo than is part of the Nagoya megapolis and is home to around 70,000 residents. The town’s government plans to survey residents about the ordinance and is also looking to address other digital threats, such as the harmful effects of using smartphones while walking.
While the ordinance is framed as a public health initiative, its implications extend beyond immediate health concerns. The measure reflects growing societal concerns about the impact of digital technology on daily life in Japan, a country where smartphone penetration is nearly universal. The Council’s FAQ explains that the ordinance does not aim to limit smartphone usage in any capacity but instead to encourage responsible use. With around 70,000 residents, Toyoake is part of the Nagoya metropolitan area, a region known for its industrial and technological activity. The town’s decision to implement this regulation is part of a broader movement to address the digital lifestyle challenges faced by Japanese citizens. As part of its plan, Toyoake’s government intends to assess the effectiveness of this ordinance and explore additional measures to combat the potential harms of smartphone overuse.
The ordinance’s focus on sleep and daily routine suggests a more comprehensive approach to managing digital habits. While the Council clarifies that the two-hour restriction is specifically for recreational use, the measure underscores the growing awareness of the negative impacts of excessive screen time. The accompanying FAQ also outlines the Council’s intention to tackle other digital issues, such as the dangers of using smartphones while walking, indicating a multi-faceted strategy to address technology-related concerns. This initiative is part of a broader trend in Japan, where local governments are exploring ways to balance technological integration with public well-being. The town’s plan to survey residents about the effectiveness of the ordinance highlights the importance of community feedback in shaping future policies related to digital health and safety.