A day for twins

Today, and February 5th annually, is Twin Day ふたごの日. The date comes from the wordplay 2‑5 → futago, meaning “twins.” The day promotes better support and environments for raising twins and other multiples, encouraging awareness of the unique challenges families face.

Perhaps the most famous twins in Japan are both the Sanrio twins! That is, Hello Kitty and Mimmy White, and the Little Twin Stars (pictured). Hello Kitty and Mimmy White are identical twins, distinguished just the different color of their ribbons. Poor old Mimmy rarely gets any of the attention, it's all about Hello Kitty. It's no wonder some people don't even realize Hello Kitty is a twin. 

In Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare publishes information on the total number of live births, including multiple births and birth outcomes. Reportedly, Japan's twin birth rate has increased over time, mirroring trends in other countries. This is largely down to the greater use of fertility treatments.