According to the Nap White Paper published by Toyota Motor Corporation on 18 September 2026, 89.1% of people feel that they would like to take a nap during work hours, while only 10.4% actually do so. As many as 80.9% are said to feel that there is a perception around them that taking a nap means shirking.
Sleep deprivation is not merely an individual issue; the workplace environment also has a significant impact. Reports have highlighted that Japan has the shortest average sleep duration among OECD member countries, at 7 hours and 22 minutes, and that RAND estimates the economic cost of sleep deprivation in Japan could reach approximately ¥15 trillion. In response to these concerns, efforts to improve sleep, including the Japanese government's development of sleep-related guidelines, are reportedly gaining momentum.
In the workplace, a culture of taking a break as soon as one feels sleepy has not taken root, and an appropriate rest environment is said to be needed to avoid the decline in performance after lunch. Research has also been cited suggesting that a short nap may ease sleepiness and improve work efficiency in the afternoon.
The sleep-tech market for companies and facilities is expanding rapidly, and reports say that wearable devices, sensors and AI are being used to make sleep data increasingly visible. Toyota has announced "TOTONE," a strategic napping tool, as a new business. The company is reportedly planning to provide semi-private spaces that support naps of around 15 minutes and subsequent alertness. TOTONE is said to combine comfortable space design with light, sound and temperature controls, as well as an alertness program, and to be available for sessions of as little as 15 minutes.
Business partners
Desired and actual nap rates
89.1% are said to feel that they would like to take a break or nap, while 10.4% take naps.