The so-called "Reiwa-era rice upheaval" that began last summer shows no signs of abating in Japan. While stockpiled rice was released in March as a countermeasure to soaring prices, the cost of the staple has remained high without falling. As a result, more people are turning to imported rice and crane games offering rice as prizes have even appeared. Hoping for lower rice prices in 2026, let's look back at 10 articles this year about Japan's staple food.
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Editorial: Japan needs blueprint for stable rice production as prices soar
As Japan faces soaring rice prices, the country needs an agricultural policy providing a blueprint for the stable supply of staple foods into the future. Merely adhering to policies of the past will not provide peace of mind to either producers or consumers. Full story.
As I See It: How to seriously bring down rice prices in Japan
Why are rice prices soaring in Japan? After covering the issue for nearly a year since last summer, I think I now know the real answer to this fundamental question. Full story.
Japan's soaring rice prices surprise Japanese expats in US
WASHINGTON (Mainichi) -- Soaring rice prices in Japan triggered by the "rice upheaval" last summer have surprised Japanese expatriates in the United States, as it remains cheaper to buy rice there despite historic inflation. In some cases, it is even more economical to buy rice imported from Japan than to buy the same product in Japan. Full story.
Less rice, more yogurt: Tokyo families' diets change as price of staple remains high
TOKYO -- Bowls of cooked rice and rice balls -- essentials in typical Japanese meals -- are appearing less frequently on dining tables in the country as rice prices remain high. While many might expect a switch to other staple foods, it is not bread or noodles that are seeing increased consumption. Full story.
'Not bad at all': Japan expert taste-tests stockpiled rice as reserves hit shelves
TOKYO -- The Japanese government has started selling its stockpiled rice through negotiated contracts in an effort to curb the rising price of the staple, which has sparked public interest in the quality of old rice, particularly its taste. Full story.
More Japanese consumers in Gunma Pref. turning to foreigner-owned shops for rice
An increasing number of Japanese consumers in Gunma Prefecture, which has one of the highest ratios of foreign residents per unit of population in the country, were seen turning to foreign-owned stores to buy imported rice amid high prices and shortages of the grain in early June. Full story.
What do rice varieties imported to Japan taste like? Appraiser says they're all good
TOKYO -- As rice prices remain high in Japan amid shortages, imported rice has become a more common sight in supermarkets. While it is indeed cheaper than domestic rice, how does it reach store shelves, and how does it taste? Full story.
Japan minister 'disqualified' for job over rice gift gaffe, but no legal breach: expert
TOKYO -- Consumers feeling the pain of rising rice prices in Japan are voicing anger at agriculture minister Taku Eto over recent remarks that included the comment, "My supporters give me plenty of rice, so I have enough to sell." One expert said that if Eto does not understand the pain of most people, it disqualifies him from his role as minister. Full Story.
Local gov'ts in Japan providing 'rice aid' in vouchers, real grain, amid high prices
TOKYO -- Local governments in Japan are carrying out "rice aid" programs for residents amid soaring rice prices, mostly using national subsidies designated to address rising costs as resources. Full Story.
Rice, other daily goods up for grabs as new Japan crane game prizes
KAWAGOE, Saitama -- At a game center in this eastern Japan city near Tokyo, children try to win prizes in a crane game. But here, the winnings are not limited to stuffed animals and candy -- 900-gram packs of white rice are also up for grabs. Full Story.