Shifts in Japan's Fertility Policies

This chapter examines the transformation of Japan's fertility policies from the Edo to the Meiji period, highlighting the shift from strict antinatal laws to pro-natalist initiatives to support modernization. It discusses Japan's unique rise in fertility rates during a time when many countries faced declines, attributing this to state-led campaigns and societal improvements. Additionally, the chapter explores the intricate relationship between housing trends, societal norms, and various factors that influence fertility rates across different regions.