On the 2nd, Japan Post released new postal postcard prices of 85 yen (previous price was 63 yen) and 110 yen ordinary stamps (previous price was 84 yen) to be affixed to letters (standard-sized mail items weighing 25 grams or less) at post offices nationwide, ahead of the approximately 30% increase in postal rates on October 1st. This is the first rate change in 30 years since 1994, excluding the time of the consumption tax increase.

Sales of the old 63 yen postcards and 63 yen, 84 yen, and 94 yen stamps will end on September 30. Stamps in denominations of 1 yen, 10 yen, and 100 yen will continue to be sold. Since postage stamps sent at the old rates after October 1 will be returned or the missing amount will be collected from the recipient, the company is informing people of the price increase through flyers and other means.

Twelve new stamps have been introduced, including 22 yen and 26 yen stamps that can be used to add the increased price. The stamp designs are “pine tree” for the 85 yen stamp, “chough” for the 110 yen stamp, and “sparrow” for the 180 yen stamp for non-standard mail. In addition to express delivery, the cost of letter packs will also increase to 430 yen for “Light” delivery to mailboxes and 600 yen for “Plus” delivery.