Japan hosts unique sleep competition to highlight sleep deprivation

A unique event dubbed the "Matt Race" took place in Tokyo on Monday, October 5, 2026, inviting dozens of participants to compete in a sleep contest. Organized by the mattress and bedding company Koala Sleep Japan, the event required participants to lie down in a dimly lit room equipped with specialized sensors to track their sleep quality and the time taken to fall asleep during a 90-minute period. The individual judged to be the best sleeper is eligible to win a prize exceeding two million yen, approximately 11,000 euros.

Riichiro Nakama, creative director at Koala Sleep Japan, stated that the initiative aims to increase public interest in sleep health. The event highlights the growing issue of sleep deprivation in Japan, a nation known for its intense work culture. According to 2021 data from the OECD, the average daily sleep duration for people in Japan is seven hours and 24 minutes, underscoring the necessity for greater awareness regarding rest.