Launch of the Tokyo Enmusubi App
Japan's birth rate has been falling for ten consecutive years, prompting government action. In September 2024, the Tokyo metropolitan government introduced an AI-based dating service named Tokyo Enmusubi. As of June 2026, the app has helped 265 couples get married. The initiative aims to counter Japan's low birth rate. Surveys reveal that roughly 70% of people interested in marriage had not actively sought a partner, highlighting the relevance of this new tool.
Registration Requirements and Outcomes
To join, applicants must submit paperwork proving they are single and complete an online interview. Out of about 36,000 applicants, only 16,000 passed the screening. By June 30, 2026, the app counted 760 couples in serious relationships. A three-step AI compatibility evaluation system boosts the chances of a successful match.
In 2025, Japan saw 671,236 births—the tenth straight yearly drop. Deaths totaled 1.6 million, more than double the number of births, and the fertility rate fell to 1.14. Despite these numbers, the marriage count in 2025 ticked up slightly, possibly due to new initiatives like Tokyo Enmusubi.
One user noted, "Even if someone is hesitant about meeting another person, a high compatibility score gives them the confidence to take that first step."
Another woman recounted, "I tried the app as a last chance before turning 40—and by the end of December, I had accepted a marriage proposal." Such stories underscore the importance of these technologies in today's society.
The launch of Tokyo Enmusubi reflects Japanese authorities' efforts to address the low birth rate, a major socioeconomic challenge. Using AI to assess couple compatibility may become a vital tool for promoting marriages and, eventually, raising birth rates. The project's success could open doors for other countries grappling with similar demographic issues.
As Japan explores innovative solutions to its demographic challenges, similar initiatives are emerging globally. For instance, an Indian matrimonial platform has introduced a bold approach to streamline suitor options for women. Such strategies highlight the growing trend of leveraging technology in matchmaking, which may prove essential in addressing declining marriage rates worldwide.