Many truths in your article, however my experience was completely different. Both our boys went to daycare not kindergarten. This was subsidized by the government. They also went partially through elementary school before leaving to improve their English and expand their creativity thinking and cultural awareness outside Japan.They returned to international school in Japan for high school as it was linked to their athletic careers and cultural renewal. I think picking and choosing environments for child rearing is vital. Responsibility to find that falls equally on the individual and governments.
Daycare costs are outrageous in many countries which dissuades larger families. This is unfortunate. One should not have to buck or ‘play’ the system to have a larger family. Equally the stigma attached to a working mother is evaporating in Japan all be it slowly. Thirty - five years ago it was extreme.
Every situation is different and family growth should be encouraged through government programs on housing, daycare, medical assistance. Our experience in Scandinavia revealed there is a staggeringly wholistic approach to childcare. Very well structured. ( high taxes sure- gets whats ya pays for) Unfortunately too often staid conservative legislators treat the symptom rather than encouraging correct growth and environment.
Interesting that 23% of the Japanese Diet (parliament) is female, but only 1.1% local level politicians are female. Grassroots initiatives not bland directives on dating from octogenarians are needed.
Good luck, enjoy the big onigiri!