TOP STORIES
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Baseball Samurai Japan Beats Taiwan in its First World Baseball Classic Game
Japanese national team Samurai Japan won, 13-0, in its first game of the World Baseball Classic on Friday night at Tokyo Dome.
March 6, 2026 -
General News Japan Govt Survey Finds Just 10％ of Workers Want Working Hours to IncreasePH1-H
About 60% of workers think their working hours are “fine as they are,” while only 10% want them to increase, according to a government survey released Thursday.
2 hours ago -
Companies Inspection via Micro-Drones Begins at Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Plant’s No. 3 Reactor
Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. on Thursday began using micro-drones to inspect the interior of the containment vessel of the No. 3 reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
7 hours ago -
Politics & Government Japan’s DPFP to Join Natl Council Considering Tax Cut Measures
Democratic Party for the People leader Yuichiro Tamaki announced Thursday his intention for the party to take part in the national council on social security, which will consider consumption tax cuts for food items and refundable tax credits.
March 6, 2026 -
Political Pulse Heckling, Once a Fixture of Diet Debate in Japan, Abates in the Face of Dominance by Takaichi and the LDP
The culture of heckling in Japanese politics, symbolized by the phrase “Heckling is the spice of parliamentary debate,” is changing.
1 hour ago -
Baseball Shohei Ohtani Ignites Team Spirit for Samurai Japan’s World Baseball Classic Title Defense; Celebration Gesture Helps Foster Unity among Players
As Samurai Japan sets its sights on a second consecutive World Baseball Classic title, Shohei Ohtani is once again leading the charge. The 31-year-old Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, appearing in the tournament for the second time in a row, has embraced the role of team leader for a squad that chooses not to designate an official captain.
March 6, 2026
LATEST NEWS
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China’s National People’s Congress Opens: Military Expansion Continues Despite Lowered Growth Rate
Despite China’s self-congratulatory claims that its economy has developed without succumbing to U.S. pressure, the reality is that it is clearly no longer able to sustain its high-growth trajectory.
The new report is tantamount to China finally acknowledging this. The Chinese economy, which had been solely focused on growth, has reached a turning point.
At the National People’s Congress, China’s national legislature, Premier Li Qiang delivered the government work report. He set this year’s gross domestic product growth target at “4.5% to 5%,” lowering it from last year’s “around 5%.”
March 6, 2026 -
Nuclear Waste Disposal Site: Govt Must Proceed With Selecting Candidates
The conventional approach of waiting for municipalities to volunteer to host final disposal sites for high-level radioactive waste from nuclear power plants has its limitations.
If this becomes a turning point for the government to take responsibility for finding candidate sites, it is a welcome development.
The Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry has requested that the village of Ogasawara in Tokyo approve the implementation of a literature survey for the construction of a final disposal site. This is expected to be built on Minami-Torishima, an island in Ogasawara.
March 6, 2026 -
CARTOON OF THE DAY (March 6)
.March 6, 2026 -
Japanese Economy Minister Akazawa Departs for U.S. to Discuss $550 Billion Investment Package
Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa has departed for the United States to discuss Japan’s $550 billion (about ¥86 trillion) investment package with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
March 6, 2026 -
Hanamaruki to Sell Liquid ‘Shio-Koji’ Seasoning to U.S. Consumers
SILICON VALLEY (Jiji Press) — Hanamaruki Foods Inc. said Wednesday that it will sell a liquid version of “shio-koji” seasoning to consumers in the United States, starting around this summer.
March 6, 2026 -
Donald Keene’s Drinking Buddy and Translator Yukio Kakuchi Pays Tribute to Japanologist’s Lifelong Work
Yukio Kakuchi, a longtime “drinking friend” whom Donald Keene trusted deeply and who translated many of Keene’s later works, gave a lecture on Sunday at Tokyo’s Setagaya Literary Museum, where a Donald Keene exhibition is currently being held.
March 6, 2026 -
Japan Approves World’s 1st iPS Cell-based Treatment; May Be Available as Early as Summer
Two regenerative medicine products made from induced pluripotent stem cells have been conditionally approved, the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry announced Friday. The approval comes with certain conditions and time limits.
March 6, 2026
MOST READ
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South Korea Tightens Rules on Foreigners Buying Homes in Seoul Metro Area
SEOUL — With housing prices continuing to rise in South Korea, President Lee Jae Myung’s administration is tightening regulations on real estate transactions by foreigners, aiming to prevent speculative trades.
March 1, 2026 -
2 Unpublished Early Novellas by Japan’s Kenzaburo Oe Discovered, Show Budding Promise of Future Nobel Prize-Winning Author
Manuscripts of two unpublished early novellas by Nobel Prize laureate Kenzaburo Oe have been discovered, it was announced at a press conference held by the University of Tokyo on Monday.
March 3, 2026 -
Strait of Hormuz Closure Shakes Markets; Prolonged Closure Could Deal Heavy Blow to Japanese Economy
AFP-JijiA cargo ship passes through the Strait of Hormuz on Feb. 25. The Yomiuri Shimbun [posttime] JST, [postdate] Financial markets were shaken at the start of the week following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. Crude oil prices surged as the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime shipping route, was effectively blocked, heightening the risk …March 3, 2026 -
Ibaraki Pref.’s 1st Foreign Bus Driver Hired in Tsukuba
MITO — Amid labor shortages in the transportation industry, Ibaraki Prefecture’s first foreign bus driver began working in Tsukuba this month under the specified skilled workers visa status. He now drives a school bus and enjoys interacting with children.
March 6, 2026 -
Iran Situation: Japan Must Exert Diplomatic Efforts without Merely Standing by
The United States is Japan’s only ally. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that the recent U.S. attack on Iran may have violated international law.
March 3, 2026 -
Amid Strait of Hormuz Blockade, Shipping Companies Scramble to Get Japan-Linked Vessels out of Persian Gulf
Japanese shipping companies are now looking for solutions to problems arising from the recent attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel. The most pressing problem they face is determining how to get Japan-linked vessels out of the Persian Gulf, but as yet there are no clear prospects of being able to do so.
March 6, 2026 -
Measles Patient Visited Hospital in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, Metropolitan Govt Says; Concerns of Contact with Others
A man with measles visited the first floor of Nippon Medical School Hospital’s main building in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, on Feb. 21, according to the Tokyo metropolitan government.
March 3, 2026 -
Tokyo’s ‘Strawberry War’ Intensifies as Producers Vie to Become ‘Emperor’ of Strawberries
Major strawberry production regions are in fierce competition to promote their brand of strawberries. With domestic consumption of the fruit declining, they are competing to develop new varieties while sparing no effort to have their brand recognized by urban consumers, enhancing their brand power.
February 28, 2026 -
North Korea Unveils Image of Kim Jong Un’s Teenage Daughter Firing Rifle
SEOUL — North Korea released a rare image on Saturday of leader Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter firing a rifle at a shooting range, adding to speculation that she is being groomed as his successor.
February 28, 2026 -
Japanese Shipping Giants Halt Strait of Hormuz Transit as Iran Conflict Raises Fears Over Oil Supply
Major Japanese shipping companies have suspended navigation through the Strait of Hormuz following attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel. Japan depends on the Middle East for more than 90% of its crude oil imports, raising concerns that a prolonged disruption could affect the stability of supplies.
March 2, 2026
SOCIETY
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Japanese Nationals in 4 Gulf Countries to Be Evacuated with Charter Flights
The government will dispatch charter flights to Saudi Arabia and Oman to evacuate Japanese nationals from Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates as situation in the Middle East deteriorates, the Foreign Ministry announced Thursday.
March 6, 2026 -
Japan Foreign Minister Confirms Two Japanese Detained in Iran
Two Japanese nationals are currently detained in Iran, but Japan is in contact with them, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Friday.
March 6, 2026 -
Drone Show in Japan Features Horticultural Expo Mascot
The mascot of the International Horticultural Expo, which kicks off next year, appeared in the night sky during a drone show in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district on Thursday.
March 6, 2026
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Ibaraki Pref.’s 1st Foreign Bus Driver Hired in Tsukuba
MITO — Amid labor shortages in the transportation industry, Ibaraki Prefecture’s first foreign bus driver began working in Tsukuba this month under the specified skilled workers visa status. He now drives a school bus and enjoys interacting with children.
March 6, 2026 -
Signboard Collapses on Visitors from Taiwan at Farm in Japan’s Tochigi Pref.; Strong Wind Advisory in Effect Near Site
NASU, Tochigi — A large signboard at a tourist farm fell on three visitors from Taiwan in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture, on Thursday, local police said. The victims were taken to a hospital but are not in life-threatening condition.
March 5, 2026 -
Chiba Institute of Technology President Denies Suspicious Relationship with Epstein
CHIBA — Chiba Institute of Technology President Joichi Ito, in a recent internet post, denied any suspicious relationship with American businessman Jeffrey Epstein, who died in custody after being indicted on charges including human trafficking of underage girls.
March 5, 2026
IMPERIAL FAMILY
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Emperor to Watch Japan-Australia World Baseball Classic Game on March 8, First Emperor to Attend Pro Baseball Game in 59 Years
The Emperor will watch the World Baseball Classic game between Japan and Australia at Tokyo Dome on March 8, the Imperial Household Agency announced Friday. The match is part of the Tokyo pool in the first round of the 2026 WBC.
March 1, 2026 -
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Emperor to Attend World Baseball Classic Match When Japan Takes on Australia at Tokyo Dome on March 8
The Emperor will attend the Japan-Australia match in the World Baseball Classic at Tokyo Dome on March 8, the Imperial Household Agency announced on Friday.
February 27, 2026 -
Prince Hisahito Visits Mausoleums of Emperor Komei, Emperor Meiji
Prince Hisahito, the son of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, visited the mausoleums of Emperor Komei and Emperor Meiji in Kyoto on Thursday.
February 27, 2026
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Japan’s Emperor Turns 66, Expresses Sympathy for Regions Hit by Heavy Snow (UPDATE 1)
The Emperor received well-wishes from members of the public gathering to celebrate his 66th birthday at the Imperial Palace on Monday.
February 23, 2026 -
Japan’s Emperor, Empress to Visit Netherlands, Belgium in June
Preparations are underway for the Emperor and Empress to officially visit the Netherlands and Belgium in June, according to sources close to the Imperial household.
January 23, 2026
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NEW！
YOMIURI EDITORIAL
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China’s National People’s Congress Opens: Military Expansion Continues Despite Lowered Growth Rate
Despite China’s self-congratulatory claims that its economy has developed without succumbing to U.S. pressure, the reality is that it is clearly no longer able to sustain its high-growth trajectory.
The new report is tantamount to China finally acknowledging this. The Chinese economy, which had been solely focused on growth, has reached a turning point.
At the National People’s Congress, China’s national legislature, Premier Li Qiang delivered the government work report. He set this year’s gross domestic product growth target at “4.5% to 5%,” lowering it from last year’s “around 5%.”
March 6, 2026 -
Nuclear Waste Disposal Site: Govt Must Proceed With Selecting Candidates
The conventional approach of waiting for municipalities to volunteer to host final disposal sites for high-level radioactive waste from nuclear power plants has its limitations.
If this becomes a turning point for the government to take responsibility for finding candidate sites, it is a welcome development.
The Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry has requested that the village of Ogasawara in Tokyo approve the implementation of a literature survey for the construction of a final disposal site. This is expected to be built on Minami-Torishima, an island in Ogasawara.
March 6, 2026 -
Former Unification Church: Proceed Steadily with Liquidation to Provide Relief for Victims
The religious group has exploited illnesses and family misfortunes to coerce its followers into making unjustly large donations. Following a court’s order for dissolution, relief must be provided for the victims by steadily proceeding with liquidation procedures.
March 5, 2026 -
Escalation of Hostilities Involving Iran: Quagmire Also Harms U.S. Interests
The United States and Israel are expanding their offensive, while Iran continues its fierce counterattacks. The flames of war are spreading throughout the Middle East, and Europe is being forced to get involved in the conflict.
March 5, 2026 -
WBC to Begin: All the Pieces are in Place for Japan’s Second Straight Title
The World Baseball Classic, a tournament pitting nations and regions against each other to determine the world’s best baseball team, will begin on March 5.
March 4, 2026 -
Microsoft: Fair Competition for Cloud Services is Essential
Cloud services, which enable the management of various data on the internet, are part of the foundation supporting a digitalized society. It is necessary to ensure a fair competitive environment and protect users’ convenience.
March 4, 2026
Content from The Japan News
POLITICS
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Japan, Canada to Launch Strategic Roadmap on Defense, Economic Security at Tokyo Summit
A draft joint statement for the Japan-Canada summit centers on the creation of a comprehensive strategic roadmap that will outline specific directions for cooperation in six areas, including stronger defense ties, economic security and energy security. The two countries will also strengthen bilateral exchanges through regular mutual visits by their leaders and cabinet ministers. The summit will be held in Tokyo on Friday night.
March 6, 2026 -
Japanese Economy Minister Akazawa Departs for U.S. to Discuss $550 Billion Investment Package
Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa has departed for the United States to discuss Japan’s $550 billion (about ¥86 trillion) investment package with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
March 6, 2026 -
Japan’s Takaichi Condemns Iran for Attacks on Neighbors in Phone Talks with Germany’s Merz
Speaking by phone with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed Japan would work closely with Germany as it tries to rein in the Middle East situation, amid fighting between the United States and Israel on the one side and Iran on the other.
March 6, 2026
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Japan Drafts New Measures against Tech Leakage on Government Funded R&D Projects
The government has compiled new draft measures to prevent technology leakage, in an effort to improve economic security in connection with state-supported research and development programs, it has been learned.
March 5, 2026 -
Defense Against Cyberattacks Vital for Nations and Companies, Especially Regarding Critical Infrastructure
At a forum in Tokyo, participants shared the importance of protecting critical infrastructure — which is essential for maintaining a nation’s functions, such as power and communications — from cyberattacks, drawing lessons from warfare in Ukraine and Iran.
March 5, 2026 -
Former U.S. Official Urges Japan to Deepen Cyber Ties With West
A former U.S. national cyber director welcomed Japan’s initiatives for an active cyber defense and urged the country to deepen cooperation with the United States and Europe, such as through joint exercises.
March 5, 2026
BUSINESS
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Inspection via Micro-Drones Begins at Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Plant’s No. 3 Reactor
Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. on Thursday began using micro-drones to inspect the interior of the containment vessel of the No. 3 reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
7 hours ago -
Hanamaruki to Sell Liquid ‘Shio-Koji’ Seasoning to U.S. Consumers
SILICON VALLEY (Jiji Press) — Hanamaruki Foods Inc. said Wednesday that it will sell a liquid version of “shio-koji” seasoning to consumers in the United States, starting around this summer.
March 6, 2026 -
Toyota to Cut Production of Mideast-Bound Cars by 20,000 Units
Toyota Motor Corp. will cut production of vehicles made at domestic plants for export to the Middle East by about 20,000 units from Monday through the end of March, it has been learned. The automaker has informed some of its suppliers of the plan.
March 6, 2026
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Amid Strait of Hormuz Blockade, Shipping Companies Scramble to Get Japan-Linked Vessels out of Persian Gulf
Japanese shipping companies are now looking for solutions to problems arising from the recent attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel. The most pressing problem they face is determining how to get Japan-linked vessels out of the Persian Gulf, but as yet there are no clear prospects of being able to do so.
March 6, 2026 -
Honda to Reimport 2 U.S.-Made Models to Sell in Japan; Both Models to Be Sold as Left-Hand-Drive Vehicles (Update 1)
Honda Motor Co. plans to reimport two of its U.S.-manufactured vehicle models to sell in Japan in late 2026, according to the carmaker.
March 5, 2026 -
LCC Greater Bay Airlines to Launch Regular Service on Fukuoka-Hong Kong Route
FUKUOKA — Fukuoka International Airport Co. (FIAC), the operator of Fukuoka Airport, announced Wednesday that Greater Bay Airlines, a Hong Kong-based low-cost carrier, will begin operating regular flights between Fukuoka and Hong Kong on Monday.
March 5, 2026 -
NTT Docomo to Discontinue 3G Service in March
Major Japanese mobile phone carrier NTT Docomo Inc. will discontinue its domestic 3G service, the communication standard primarily used by older-style mobile phones known as “feature phones,” at the end of March.
March 5, 2026
WORLD
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Nepal Bus Crash Kills 19 People, Injures 25 Including One Japanese National
NEW DELHI — A bus heading to Kathmandu fell from the road in Dhading District, central Nepal, in the early hours of Monday morning. Nineteen people were killed and 25 injured, including one Japanese national, according to Reuters and other sources.
February 24, 2026 -
Ukrainian Ambassador Closely Watching Japan’s Revision of Defense Export Rules, Hopes for Future Arms Support
Ukrainian Ambassador to Japan Yurii Lutovinov says his country is closely monitoring discussions over revising Japan’s key defense principle, which restricts defense equipment exports, expressing hope that Tokyo will provide Kyiv with air defense missiles in the future.
February 23, 2026 -
China, India Tapping into Promising African Market; Beijing Announces Tariff Cuts, Both Countries Aim to Expand Exports
DURBAN, South Africa — China and India are keen to tap into the African market, which has a high potential for growth. China announced earlier this month that it would impose no tariffs on imports from 53 African countries staring in May.
February 22, 2026
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Japan, Pacific Island Nations to Work on Deepening Cooperation
During the Japan Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue, which started Sunday, defense ministers and representatives of the island nations will explore how to strengthen defense cooperation while ensuring regional stability and promoting a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” The three-day conference, which a record number of nations are participating in, will also cover various issues that the participating countries are concerned about.
February 22, 2026 -
Fiji Defense Minister: Strategic Competition Puts Pressure on Pacific States to Take Sides
The following is excerpted from a written interview with Fiji’s Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua by The Yomiuri Shimbun.
February 22, 2026 -
Ukrainian Ambassador Calls on Japan to Provide Air Defense System Support, Apply More Pressure on Russia
Tuesday will mark four years since Russia’s aggression against Ukraine began, yet prospects for peace remain elusive.
February 22, 2026
NEWS SERVICES
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Tokyo Police Arrest NHK Director over Sexual Assault
TOKYO (Jiji Press) — Tokyo police have arrested a director at Japan Broadcasting Corp., the country’s public broadcaster known as NHK, on suspicion of sexually assaulting a woman in the Japanese capital’s Shibuya Ward, it was learned Friday.
March 6, 2026 -
Radar Data Reveals Cavernous Venusian Lava Tube
WASHINGTON (Reuters) — A fresh examination of radar data for Venus obtained by NASA’s Magellan spacecraft in the 1990s indicates the presence of a large underground cavity created by a lava flow, the first subsurface feature ever detected on Earth’s planetary neighbor.
March 6, 2026 -
Japan’s Nikkei Stock Average Set for Biggest Weekly Drop in 11 Months on Middle East Conflict (UPDATE 1)
TOKYO, March 6 (Reuters) - Japanese shares marked their steepest weekly drop in almost a year on Friday, as the Middle East war heavily disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, choking oil supply and pushing investors out of risk and into cash.
March 6, 2026
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More Than 20 States Sue over New Global Tariffs Trump Imposed after His Stinging Supreme Court Loss
WASHINGTON (AP) — Some two dozen states challenged President Donald Trump’s new global tariffs on Thursday, filing a lawsuit over import taxes he imposed after a stinging loss at the Supreme Court.
March 6, 2026 -
Pentagon Says It Is Labeling AI Company Anthropic a Supply Chain Risk ‘Effective Immediately’
The Trump administration is following through with its threat to designate artificial intelligence company Anthropic as a supply chain risk in an unprecedented move that could force other government contractors to stop using the AI chatbot Claude.
March 6, 2026 -
Azerbaijan Accuses Neighbor Iran of a Drone Attack and Vows to Retaliate
BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) — Azerbaijan on Thursday accused Iran of a drone attack on its territory that injured four civilians, and it vowed to retaliate as the war in the Middle East reached into another country.
March 6, 2026 -
Stocks Drop after Oil Spikes to Its Highest Price since the Summer of 2024
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks sank on Wall Street Thursday after the price of oil spiked to its highest level since the summer of 2024 because of the war with Iran.
March 6, 2026
EDITORIAL & COLUMNS
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Showa-era Towers in Kansai’s Big Cities Become Social Media Sensations
The skylines of the Keihanshin area, as the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe conurbation is known, are no longer just static postcards; they have become major new assets for the region.
February 28, 2026 -
Chronic Issues Erode Thailand’s Economy as Political Confusion Persists, Threatening Terminal Decline in Its Economy
Voting for the House of Representatives in Thailand took place on Feb. 8, as the nation struggles to emerge from two lost decades of political instability.
February 21, 2026 -
What Skills Will Takaichi Need in Her ‘Era of Dominance’?
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi secured a historic landslide victory in the House of Representatives election, having staked her political career on the outcome.
February 21, 2026
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2026 Has Seen a Grim Dawn in Iran; What Will the Rest of the Year Bring?
“HAPPY NEW YEAR. Wishing you and your dear family a 2026 full of happiness, health and heartwarming moments.”
February 14, 2026 -
China Provoked Takaichi into Risky Move of Dissolving House of Representatives, But It’s a Gamble She Just Might Win
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who took office only last October, announced her decision to dissolve the House of Representatives in January. This act of dissolution, often called the “secret weapon” of the top leader because the prime minister can choose the most advantageous timing for themselves, is a serious political gamble.
February 7, 2026 -
Prioritize Infrastructure Maintenance, Not New Plans
By Hiroshi Watanabe / Special to The Yomiuri Shimbun [posttime] JST, [postdate] There continues to be a glut of capital around the world. The situation is not just unchanged from last year; if anything, it has become more difficult. This is because the world’s largest and second largest economies, the United States and China, are no …February 6, 2026
RAMEN OF JAPAN
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Ramen Map
Map of ramen shops in Japan featured on the Ramen of Japan
A useful map for ramen lovers is now available. You can quickly find the locations of the ramen outlets featured on our Ramen of Japan. The number of shops keeps growing. Read the stories and visit there!
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Kyoraku / Ginza’s Beloved Mellow Chuka Soba; Third-Generation Owner Starts Making Noodles from Scatch
I set out for Tokyo’s Ginza to get a bowl of ramen and knew Kyoraku, approaching its 70th anniversary, would satisfy my purpose. The shop, founded in 1956, serves Japan’s most traditional and simple ramen: the chuka soba. It took a leap toward becoming an even more thriving establishment when third-generation owner Kazuhiko Nakano, 39, began serving noodles made from scratch. As I wandered through Ginza amid the year-end rush, I stopped by the shop, which always seems to have people lined up.
December 10, 2025 -
Noodle Dining Shunsai / Rich Oyster Ramen to Savor at Odasaga; Experienced 68-year-old Owner Creates Numerous Ramen Varieties
Odakyu Sagamihara Station in Kanagawa Prefecture is affectionately called “Odasaga” by locals. In the residential area north of the station, opposite the commercial district in the south, stands the distinctive ramen shop “Noodle Dining Shunsai.” Owner Yasunori Okamoto, 68, who has experience with both Japanese and Italian cuisine, serves a variety of unique ramen centered around seafood. Intrigued by his seasonal oyster ramen, I visited the shop.
November 27, 2025
SPORTS
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Samurai Japan Beats Taiwan in its First World Baseball Classic Game
Japanese national team Samurai Japan won, 13-0, in its first game of the World Baseball Classic on Friday night at Tokyo Dome.
March 6, 2026 -
Excited Baseball Fans Gather at Tokyo Dome Ahead of Japan’s Opening World Baseball Classic Game with Taiwan
Baseball fans gathered at Tokyo Dome from early Friday morning to await the start of the World Baseball Classic where the Japanese national team, Samurai Japan, was to play against Taiwan in its first game from 7 p.m.
March 6, 2026 -
Shohei Ohtani Ignites Team Spirit for Samurai Japan’s World Baseball Classic Title Defense; Celebration Gesture Helps Foster Unity among Players
As Samurai Japan sets its sights on a second consecutive World Baseball Classic title, Shohei Ohtani is once again leading the charge. The 31-year-old Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, appearing in the tournament for the second time in a row, has embraced the role of team leader for a squad that chooses not to designate an official captain.
March 6, 2026
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Australia Beats Taiwan 3-0 to Open World Baseball Classic in Tokyo. South Korea Also Wins
Australia opened the World Baseball Classic by beating Taiwan 3-0 on Travis Bazzana's homer in the seventh inning and a two-run home run in the fifth by Robbie Perkins at the Tokyo Dome on Thursday.
March 6, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: China Beats Japan for Upset Victory in Wheelchair Curling Mixed Doubles Opener at Milano Cortina Paralympic Games
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Japan lost to China 3-10 in the first match of the wheelchair curling mixed doubles round-robin competition at the Milano Cortina Paralympic Winter Games in the Italian city of Cortina d’Ampezzo on Wednesday.
March 5, 2026 -
Australia Opens the World Baseball Classic in Tokyo with a 3-0 victory over Taiwan
TOKYO (AP) — Australia opened the World Baseball Classic on Thursday by beating Taiwan 3-0 on Robbie Perkins' two-run homer in the fifth inning and Travis Bazzana's homer in the seventh at the Tokyo Dome.
March 5, 2026 -
Aaron Judge and a Loaded US Roster Hope to Dethrone Ohtani’s Japan at the World Baseball Classic
Aaron Judge is trading pinstripes for a plain jersey with red, white and blue letters.
March 5, 2026
SCIENCE & NATURE
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AI Can’t Be Listed as Inventor on Patent Applications, Japan’s Top Court Rules
The Supreme Court has dismissed an American engineer’s appeal to have artificial intelligence named as the inventor on a patent application.
March 6, 2026 -
Fukushima N-Plant Debris Retrieval Robot to Be Deployed as Early as This Summer; Remotely Powered Arm Allows for Wider Exploration Than Previous Device
A robotic arm will be deployed to remove melted nuclear fuel debris from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant for the first time as early as this summer, according to the head of the firm established by Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. to manage the work of decommissioning the plant.
March 6, 2026 -
Japan Approves World’s 1st iPS Cell-based Treatment; May Be Available as Early as Summer
Two regenerative medicine products made from induced pluripotent stem cells have been conditionally approved, the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry announced Friday. The approval comes with certain conditions and time limits.
March 6, 2026
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Space One’s No. 3 Kairos Rocket Terminates Mid-Flight
KUSHIMOTO, Wakayama — The launch of the No. 3 Kairos rocket ended in failure mid-flight on Thursday when its developer terminated the mission shortly after the rocket left its launchpad in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture.
March 5, 2026 -
Japan’s Space One Kairos 3rd Flight Rocket Launched, but Mission Aborted Mid-Flight
Space One Co.’s Kairos 3rd Flight rocket was successfully launched in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, on Thursday.
March 5, 2026 -
Total Lunar Eclipse Visible for Some in Japan, While Clouds Block View in Tokyo
A total lunar eclipse occurred on Tuesday evening, with the full moon completely entering Earth’s shadow.
March 4, 2026 -
Japan Rocket Launch Canceled at Last Minute; Space One to Hold Press Conference
Space One Co. announced the cancelation of the launch of its Kairos 3rd Flight rocket shortly before it was scheduled to lift off from Spaceport Kii in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, on Wednesday.
March 4, 2026
CULTURE
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2 Unpublished Early Novellas by Japan’s Kenzaburo Oe Discovered, Show Budding Promise of Future Nobel Prize-Winning Author
Manuscripts of two unpublished early novellas by Nobel Prize laureate Kenzaburo Oe have been discovered, it was announced at a press conference held by the University of Tokyo on Monday.
March 3, 2026 -
Japan Traditional Puppet Performance Held at Onsen Resort in Shizuoka Pref.
A bunraku traditional puppet performance was held at a ryokan inn in Izunokuni, Shizuoka Prefecture, on Sunday.
March 3, 2026 -
Humbert Humbert: Husband-Wife Vocal Duo Brings Cheerful Singing to Morning Drama; Couple Shares Secret to Happy Marriage, Other Insights
Husband-and-wife vocal duo Humbert Humbert sing the theme song of the NHK serial morning drama “Bakebake” (“The Ghost Writer’s Wife”). The song’s title, “Warattari Korondari,” means “laughing and tumbling.” Yuho Sano, wife, and Ryosei Sato, husband — whose cheerful voices greet viewers every morning — spoke recently with The Yomiuri Shimbun about their everyday lives and what music means to them.
February 27, 2026
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Exhibition Featuring Yoshiharu Tsuge’s Manga World Underway in Chofu, Tokyo; Unique, Surreal Works Draw Steady Crowds
An exhibition showcasing the work of mangaka Yoshiharu Tsuge, beloved by passionate fans for his unique and surreal worldview, is now underway at the Chofu City Cultural Hall Tazukuri in Tokyo.
February 25, 2026 -
Japanese Film, Anymart, Wins Critics’ Award at International Film Festival in Berlin, Director’s Debut Feature Film Shocks Audiences
BERLIN — Director Yusuke Iwasaki’s debut feature film “AnyMart” won the FIPRESCI Prize, the international film critics’ award, in the Forum section at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival on Saturday.
February 22, 2026 -
New Japanese Animated Film ‘A New Dawn’ Applauded at Berlin International Film Festival; Director Yoshitoshi Shinomiya Also Helped Produce “Your Name.”
BERLIN — “Hanarokusho ga Akeru Hi ni” (“A New Dawn”), a new animated film that marks the feature-length directorial debut of Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, screened to thunderous applause at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival on Wednesday.
February 20, 2026
PERSPECTIVES
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Rare Life-Size Hina Dolls Impress in Okabe-Shuku, Shizuoka Prefecture
FUJIEDA, Shizuoka — Every year around the time of the Doll Festival, there is a rare display of 15 life-size hina dolls in Okabe-shuku, a former post town on the Tokaido route. The route is one of the five major highways developed during the Edo period (1603-1867) starting from Nihombashi in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Okabe-shuku is now in Fujieda, Shizuoka Prefecture.March 1, 2026 -
Step Back in Time at Historical Estate Renovated into a Commercial Complex in Tokyo
A large residence in Tokyo’s Itabashi Ward dating back to the early Edo period (1603-1867) where community heads and then their descendants lived until two years ago, reopened in November as the commercial complex Itabashi Tototo. The name Tototo comes from repeating the Japanese word “to,” which means “and.” It symbolizes the hope that the complex will be a place where people are connected to others, and past and present are linked to the future.February 15, 2026 -
Senior Japanese Citizens Return to University to Gain Knowledge, Find New Career, Make Friends
Learning makes life rich regardless of how old a person is. More and more universities are offering courses for middle-aged and senior citizens to learn and study again.
February 3, 2026
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Prevent Accidents When Removing Snow from Roofs; Always Use Proper Gear and Follow Safety Precautions
As it gets colder, accidental falls while removing snow from rooftops become more common in snowy regions. It is crucial for people who do this job to take safety measures, such as wearing a safety line and not working alone. Icicles hanging from eaves and snow sliding off roofs can also cause injury.
January 27, 2026 -
Tokyo University of the Arts Now Offering Free Guided Tour of New Storage Building, Completed in 2024
Old & New video By Ryuzo Suzuki / Yomiuri Shimbun Senior PhotographerParticipants listen to an explanation of the storage room behind a small window in a room called the “front room” during a public tour led by a professional guide at the University Art Museum Toride Annex Storage, in Toride, Ibaraki Prefecture, on Dec. 9. …January 25, 2026 -
Walking through the Changing Seasons in Shinhotaka, Gifu Pref.
At the beginning of November, autumn foliage had just entered the peak of its season in the Okuhida area of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Located at the foot of the Northern Japanese Alps, this is one of few places where autumn foliage and snowy winter scenes can be enjoyed at the same time, attracting many hikers and tourists.
January 20, 2026
NEWS WITH VIDEO
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Drone Show in Japan Features Horticultural Expo Mascot
March 6, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: Japanese Figure Skater Miura Returns to Hometown in Hyogo Prefecture with Gold Medal
March 3, 2026 -
Japan, U.S. Forces Conduct Joint Training to Defend, Recapture Remote Island; ‘Iron Fist’ Kicks off on Tanegashima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture
March 3, 2026 -
Rare Life-Size Hina Dolls Impress in Okabe-Shuku, Shizuoka Prefecture
March 1, 2026 -
Pokémon Characters Light Up Night Sky in Yomiuriland Drone Show, Show Off Nostalgic Scenes from 30 Years Ago
February 28, 2026
DELICIOUS
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Japanese Students Use Traditional Pickle to Create Novel Wagashi Confectionery
February 24, 2026 -
Kyoto Ramen Chain Transforms Neglected Bamboo Forests into Menma; Sustainability, Youth Participation Among Project’s Aims
February 22, 2026 -
Maximize Flavor of Vegetables in Classic Italian Soup
February 22, 2026 -
High-Hydration Bread on the Rise, Seeing Increase in Specialty Shops, Recipe Searches
February 15, 2026
JAPAN IN FOCUS
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Men Compete in Fierce Tug-of-War for Aomori Festival
March 4, 2026 -
International Students Experience Sake Brewing in Japan’s Akita Pref., Aim Is to Spread Appeal of Beverage
March 4, 2026 -
Sawtooth Roof Factory Stands as Monument to Ashikaga Textile History in Tochigi Pref., Japan
March 2, 2026 -
Fukui: Effort to Grow Bananas in Snow Bears Fruit; Japanese Farmer Does ‘Impossible’
February 28, 2026
TRAVEL SPOTS
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Takayama Among World’s Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities for 2026; 2nd Japanese Municipality to Receive Honor
March 3, 2026 -
Weeping Plum Blossoms in Full Bloom in Nagoya; Visitors Can Enjoy 700 Trees, 12 Varieties
March 3, 2026 -
Kyoto Temple Garden’s Plum Trees Reach Full Bloom Early with Various Varieties On Display
March 1, 2026 -
Yamaguchi: Fantastical Light Shows Bring Misuzu Kaneko’s Children’s Poetry to Life
February 28, 2026
