Japan, the world’s fifth-largest carbon emitter, has long maintained a culture of political quietude among its youth. But a new generation of activists is breaking that silence.

A New Voice Emerges

When 19-year-old Yuki Tanaka first held a sign outside the Diet building in Tokyo, she stood alone. That was two years ago. Today, her organization, Climate Youth Japan, has chapters in 15 prefectures and thousands of active members.

“In Japanese culture, we’re taught not to stand out, not to cause trouble,” Yuki explains. “But staying silent while our future burns is the real trouble.”

Building Regional Connections

Through AktivAsia’s regional network, Japanese youth activists have connected with their counterparts across Asia. These connections have proven invaluable, offering both moral support and strategic insights.

The movement is growing. From Tokyo to Okinawa, young Japanese are finding their voice—and using it to demand the climate action their government has long delayed.