“Free schools” are on the rise in Japan, as the number of k-12 students with extended absence from classrooms (futoko) continues to grow, reaching the record high of 200,000 in 2022. Often triggered by bullying, the ratio of truancy is highest in...
School can be a difficult time for anyone. Students face a lot of pressure to fit in and excel academically. Japanese schools in particular are known for their strict conformity and long hours studying and participating in after school clubs. Some...