This video from The Japan Reporter investigates a growing social issue in Japan: the increasing hostility towards foreign residents as the country faces major demographic changes. With Japan’s population aging rapidly, there has been a sharp rise in social welfare costs, particularly in healthcare, nursing care, and pensions. Some local communities are beginning to blame foreign residents for these increased expenditures, creating friction and exclusion within Japanese society.

The video examines real experiences from foreign communities across Japan, featuring interviews with activists, community leaders, and members of organizations like Tokyo Union Church. They discuss how foreign residents are being scapegoated amidst anxieties about resource allocation and social change. The perspectives of both Japanese and foreign citizens are presented, revealing the complexity of public opinion on immigration, integration, and entitlement to social support.

In addition to individual accounts, the video provides important context about Japan’s demographic crisis. With a declining birth rate and an expanding elderly population, the social welfare system is under unparalleled strain. The role of foreign labor and the challenges of ensuring fair treatment for all residents—regardless of nationality—are central themes. Ultimately, the video prompts viewers to consider what kind of society Japan wants to build in the face of these evolving demographic realities.

The topic is especially relevant for those interested in Japan’s culture, current social trends, and the lived experience of foreigners in the country. For those traveling to or residing in Japan, understanding these social dynamics is crucial for navigating community relations and expectations.