Population and Demographics Practice Test

Considering the information provided, Japan’s population declines from 128.1 million (2010) to about 124.3 million (2024) and continues to concentrate in major metros; rural prefectures experience vacant houses (akiya), fewer students, and reduced bus routes, while cities face crowded transit and higher housing costs. Spain also sees interior regions emptying as coastal cities grow. In what ways does urbanization affect rural communities in Japan as mentioned in the passage?

Based on the passage, Japan’s births fall to about 758,000 in 2023 and the total fertility rate stays near 1.2; fewer children mean fewer future taxpayers, while a large elderly population increases pension and healthcare costs, prompting subsidies for childcare and efforts to improve work-life balance. Singapore faces similar low fertility (about 1.0) and also expands childcare support. How does Japan's declining birthrate impact its economy based on the passage?