Release of a Regular Version of the Web System of Small Area Population Projections for the Whole Japan

Abstract

The author released a trial version of “The Web System of Small Area Population Projections for the Whole Japan” in June 2015. This system offered web-based access to small-area (cho-cho and aza),long-term (2015–2060),nationwide population projections for Japan (by age-group and gender) for the first time. To develop this system, the author proposed a new method for smoothing small-area demographics, and after improving the trial version substantially, released the regular version in July 2016. This paper describes how the system was developed and the new smoothing method with the theoretical background. It also gives an outline of the system focusing on the methods and accuracy of projections, briefly explains the operating methods, and concludes by referring to further studies on small-area population projections.