#Japan #Tokyo #Create Link #Ito-Yokado #Early Voting

Early Voting Initiative at Ito-Yokado

As the political landscape in Japan continues to evolve, a new initiative has emerged to increase voter participation in the upcoming elections. Beginning on January 28, 2026, Ito-Yokado and Create Link will open early voting locations in 17 of their stores across Japan, including major urban centers like Tokyo, Chiba, and Aichi. This strategic move aims to provide local communities with convenient access to voting facilities, making it easier for citizens to participate in the democratic process.

The early voting locations will be available between January 28 and February 7, 2026, with specific dates varying by venue. This approach is a part of Ito-Yokado's commitment to community engagement and social contributions. By integrating voting access within retail environments, the company hopes to foster a culture of civic participation.

Among the participating locations are popular shopping centers such as Ario Kashiwa in Chiba and Ario Nishi-Arakai in Tokyo. The initiative encourages voters to take advantage of their shopping trips by including a moment to cast their votes. This dual-purpose setup not only alleviates barriers to participation but also makes the act of voting part of the community's daily routines.

In-store efforts will be made to promote voting awareness, including informational flyers distributed at the voting sites, posters displayed within the stores, and announcements over store intercoms. Such campaigns are designed to encourage broader turnout among eligible voters, ensuring that those who might otherwise miss the opportunity are well informed and reminded to participate.

The early voting initiative is not only a logistical innovation but also reflects the evolving needs of society. Ito-Yokado and Create Link are committed to regularly adapting to the changes in consumer behavior and the social landscape, ultimately striving to be trusted, sincere enterprises within their communities.

Participating Stores & Details

Here is a list of the 17 stores where early voting will take place, along with their specific dates:

1. Ario Kashiwa (Chiba) - January 28 to February 7
2. Ario Nishi-Arakai (Tokyo) - January 28 to February 7
3. Ito-Yokado Chita Store (Aichi) - January 30 to February 1, February 6-7
4. Ito-Yokado Utsunomiya Store (Tochigi) - January 31 to February 1, February 6-7
5. Ario Kasai (Tokyo) - January 31 to February 7
6. Ito-Yokado Katsuradai Store (Kanagawa) - January 31 to February 7
7. Ito-Yokado Isehara Store (Kanagawa) - January 31 to February 7
8. Ito-Yokado Misato Store (Saitama) - January 31 to February 7
9. Ito-Yokado Akashi Store (Hyogo) - January 31 to February 1, February 7
10. Ito-Yokado Matsudo Store (Chiba) - February 1 to 7
11. Ito-Yokado Wako Store (Saitama) - February 2 to 7
12. Ario Ichihara (Chiba) - February 2 to 7
13. Ario Fukaya (Saitama) - February 2 to 7
14. Ito-Yokado Akishima Store (Tokyo) - February 3 to 7
15. Ito-Yokado Mishima Store (Shizuoka) - February 5 to 7
16. Ito-Yokado Koshien Store (Hyogo) - February 5 to 7
17. Ario Ageo (Saitama) - February 5 to 7

This initiative marks a significant step toward intertwining commerce and civic duty, making it easier for citizens to engage in the electoral process while going about their daily lives. By providing early voting locations within familiar shopping environments, Ito-Yokado and Create Link are setting a new standard for community-focused initiatives.