Japan’s sleep-deprived workers have taken part in an unusual competition where the goal was simple: fall asleep quickly and sleep deeply.
The Tokyo event, called “Matt Race,” brought together dozens of participants competing to become the best sleeper. Organised by mattress company Koala Sleep Japan, the contest allowed participants to rest on comfortable mattresses for up to 90 minutes.
Contest Turns Sleep Into Competition
Participants wore sleep-tracking devices while they rested inside a dimly lit room. Some contestants were seen holding stuffed toys as they attempted to fall asleep.
The winner was selected based on how quickly and soundly each participant slept.
The top prize was more than two million yen, worth around $14,000. The winner, who used the nickname Suimii, said the prize money would help cover moving expenses.
Suimii also said the money could help make a dream of owning a “princess” bed a reality.
Japan Faces Serious Sleep Shortage
Organiser Riichiro Nakama said Japan is often described as a country suffering from sleep deprivation.
The competition was designed to encourage people to think more seriously about sleep. Organisers also hoped that turning sleep into a public event would increase awareness about healthy rest.
According to OECD data from 2021, people in Japan slept an average of seven hours and 24 minutes per day. This was the lowest average among OECD countries included in the comparison.
Experts have linked Japan’s sleep shortage to several factors. Long working hours, lengthy commutes and a busy nightlife economy are among the issues affecting sleeping habits.
One participant, Chisato Honda, 32, said the experience seemed to end almost instantly and wished there had been more time to sleep.
For participants, the unusual event offered both entertainment and a reminder of the importance of getting enough rest.
