Japan is currently experiencing what is being called the "Reiwa Rice Crisis," characterized by a significant shortage of rice in supermarkets nationwide, leading to purchase restrictions. The scarcity has reduced the variety of domestic rice from six or seven types to just two, with only 5kg and 2kg packages available. This crisis is primarily due to several factors: the extreme weather conditions in 2023, including record-breaking heat and drought, which have deteriorated rice quality and reduced market supply; a decrease in milling yield, with only 25kg of white rice being produced from 30kg of brown rice instead of the usual 27kg; and an increase in demand driven by the rise in foreign tourists. Consequently, rice prices have surged, with a 5kg bag rising from approximately 1500 yen in March 2024 to about 2500 yen by August. In response, many stores have implemented purchase limits, some have started importing rice from California, and consumers are either reducing their rice consumption or shopping at multiple stores. As the new rice season approaches, there are concerns about further price impacts. This situation is reminiscent of the "Heisei Rice Crisis" of 1993 but is compounded by structural issues in production and distribution, highlighting significant challenges in Japan's rice supply system.