Japan has scrapped a controversial plan to encourage Tokyo women to marry men in rural areas by offering cash payouts and train tickets to matchmaking events, following public backlash. The scheme proposed payments of up to 600,000 yen ($4,140) for women who married and relocated outside Tokyo to address the gender imbalance in rural regions. However, media leaks and criticism on social media highlighted that the plan was seen as patronizing and out-of-touch, reflecting a broader issue of male dominance in Japanese politics and society. Critics argued that the plan ignored the real reasons women migrate to cities, such as better education and job opportunities. Despite the plan's cancellation, Japan continues to grapple with severe depopulation in rural areas, with over 40% of municipalities at risk of disappearing due to the declining number of young women. The government is now reviewing the plan and other strategies to balance gender demographics and revitalize rural economies.