Japan’s ‘Best Sleeper’ Contest Gives Competitors 90 Minutes to Win

A contest in Japan has turned falling asleep into a competitive challenge, giving participants 90 minutes to prove their ability to rest.

The entrants, who described themselves as “professional sleepers,” faced a seemingly simple task: lie down, relax and drift off as quickly as possible.

Rather than demanding speed on a track or strength in an arena, the “Best Sleeper” competition called for participants to settle down and let sleep take over.

The event offers an unusual contrast in a country known for its hardworking population, where a lack of sleep remains a concern. For these competitors, at least, rest was the goal rather than something to squeeze around work.