TOP STORIES
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Politics & Government Japan PM Takaichi’s Cabinet Resigns en Masse
Tokyo, Feb. 18 (Jiji Press)—Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s cabinet resigned en masse on Wednesday morning.
18 min ago -
Olympics & Paralympics Milano Cortina 2026: Japan’s Ami Nakai Leads Women’s Figure Skating Short Program Followed by Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, Alysa Liu of U.S.
MILAN -- Japan's Ami Nakai, 17, lead the women's figure skating short program with 78.71 on Tuesday at the Milano Cortina Olympic Games, followed by Japan's Kaori Sakamoto in second and Alysa Liu of the United States third heading into Thursday's free skate.
2 hours ago -
Reuters Trump Says Japan to Invest in Energy, Industrial Projects in Ohio, Texas and Georgia
WASHINGTON, Feb 17 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday announced three projects valued at $36 billion to be financed by Japan, including an oil export facility in Texas, an industrial diamonds plant in Georgia and a natural gas power plant in Ohio.
32 min ago -
Companies TEPCO’s Niigata Pref. Nuclear Power Plant Begins Transmitting Power to Tokyo Area, 1st Time in 14 Years
Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. said the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station in Niigata Prefecture has begun transmitting electricity to the Tokyo metropolitan area for the first time in 14 years.
5 hours ago -
Olympics & Paralympics Milano Cortina 2026: Japan Gains Bronze in Speed Skating Women’s Team Pursuit (Update 1)
Japan gained bronze in speed skating women's team pursuit at the Milano Cortina Olympics on Tuesday, defeating the United States in the race to win bronze medal.
9 hours ago -
Olympics & Paralympics Milano Cortina 2026: Riku Miura, Ryuichi Kihara Clinch Japan’s 1st Gold in Pairs Figure Skating, Rebounding from Disappointing Short Program
MILAN — Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara on Monday made a stunning comeback from their disappointing short program performance, winning gold in pairs figure skating in Milan. It was Japan’s first Olympic title in the category.
February 17, 2026
LATEST NEWS
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U.S. Firm to Build Training Hub in Fukushima N-plant for Debris Removal; Plans to Establish Training Center by 2029
A U.S. nuclear decommissioning firm plans to establish a training center in Futaba, Fukushima Prefecture, by 2029 to train personnel on the removal of fuel debris at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, it has been learned.
9 hours ago -
AI Agents Should Consult Humans, Say New Rules from Japanese Govt
With the spread of AI products that handle tasks autonomously, the government plans to ask AI operators to build systems that require decision-making by humans.
February 17, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: Kobayashi’s Super Team Medal Bid Meets Sudden End; Heavy Snow Forces Halt to Ski Jump Competition
Bad weather brought a sudden and disappointing end to the third Olympic appearance of ski jumper Ryoyu Kobayashi, the gold medalist from the previous Games. Japan finished sixth in the men’s super team event on Monday (early Tuesday Japan time) after the competition was halted due to bad weather, preventing the 29-year-old from completing his final jump.
February 17, 2026 -
Toyota Highlander Reverse Imported from the U.S. to Japan Will Be Official State Vehicle
A Toyota Highlander SUV manufactured in the United States and reverse imported to Japan was introduced as an official state vehicle by the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry on Monday.
February 17, 2026 -
Man Infected with Measles Reportedly Dined at Restaurant in Tokyo Station
A man in his 30s who was later diagnosed with measles reportedly dined at a restaurant in Tokyo Station on Jan. 31, possibly coming into contact with many commuters and tourists, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
February 17, 2026 -
The Great East Japan Earthquake – Preserving Memories in 3D Images –
Since March 11, 2011, staff photographers of The Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper have been covering the people and places affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, from vantage points on the ground and in the air. In just the first week after the disaster, we took more than 100,000 photos.
February 17, 2026 -
Judge Tells US National Park Service to Reinstall Philadelphia Slavery Exhibit
NEW YORK/ WASHINGTON, Feb 16 (Reuters) - A U.S. federal judge in Pennsylvania ordered the National Park Service on Monday to reinstall a slavery exhibit at a Philadelphia historic site, pending the outcome of litigation after the city sued the government over its removal.
February 17, 2026
| MEDAL STANDINGS | ![]() |
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T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norway | 14 | 8 | 9 | 31 |
| 2 | Italy | 9 | 4 | 11 | 24 |
| 3 | United States | 6 | 10 | 5 | 21 |
| 4 | Netherlands | 6 | 6 | 1 | 13 |
| 5 | Germany | 5 | 8 | 7 | 20 |
| 6 | Austria | 5 | 8 | 4 | 17 |
| 7 | France | 5 | 7 | 4 | 16 |
| 8 | Sweden | 5 | 5 | 2 | 12 |
| 9 | Switzerland | 5 | 2 | 3 | 10 |
| 10 | Japan | 4 | 5 | 10 | 19 |
SOCIETY
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Man Infected with Measles Reportedly Dined at Restaurant in Tokyo Station
A man in his 30s who was later diagnosed with measles reportedly dined at a restaurant in Tokyo Station on Jan. 31, possibly coming into contact with many commuters and tourists, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
February 17, 2026 -
The Great East Japan Earthquake – Preserving Memories in 3D Images –
Since March 11, 2011, staff photographers of The Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper have been covering the people and places affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, from vantage points on the ground and in the air. In just the first week after the disaster, we took more than 100,000 photos.
February 17, 2026 -
Myaku-Myaku Fan Event Held in Osaka; ‘Its Butt is so Cute!’ Says Enthusiastic Female Fan
OSAKA ― Myaku-Myaku, the mascot of the 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo, grew so popular that a fan event was held on Monday at a theater in Osaka, even after the expo ended.
February 17, 2026
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Robert Duvall, Oscar-Winning Actor and ‘Godfather’ Mainstay, Dead at 95
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Robert Duvall, the Oscar-winning actor of matchless versatility and dedication whose classic roles included the intrepid consigliere of the first two "Godfather" movies and the over-the-hill country music singer in "Tender Mercies," has died at age 95.
February 17, 2026 -
Young People in Japan Grapple with Social Media Addiction
Young people ages 10 to 29 appear to have the highest rate of pathological social media use, with 6% exhibiting signs of a serious addiction, according to a survey by an addiction treatment institution in Kanagawa Prefecture.
February 16, 2026 -
Osaka Expo Mascot Myaku-Myaku-Themed Cafe Opens in Osaka, Set to Run Through Thursday
OSAKA — An official cafe of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opened Monday on the second floor of JP Tower Osaka near JR Osaka Station.
February 16, 2026
IMPERIAL FAMILY
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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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Japan Emperor, Empress, Princess Aiko Watch Sumo for 1st Time in 6 Years; Imperial Family Meet with Sumo Stars After Bouts
The Emperor, the Empress and their daughter Princess Aiko watched the eighth day of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament at the Ryogoku Kokugikan stadium in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, on Sunday.
January 19, 2026 -
Poems on Brightness Recited at Imperial New Year’s Reading; Prince Hisahito Makes His Debut at Annual Event
The annual Imperial ceremony of Utakai Hajime, or the New Year’s Poetry Reading, was held at the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, on Wednesday morning.
January 14, 2026
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Prince Hisahito Joins Japan’s Emperor, Empress in Offering New Year Greetings to the Public
The Imperial family held its New Year greeting on Friday at the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. Fourteen members of the Imperial family, including the Emperor and Empress, took part in the first of the day’s five planned appearances, which started around 10:10 a.m., waving from the palace balcony to the large crowd that had gathered.
January 2, 2026 -
New Year’s Greetings Ceremony Held at Imperial Palace; Prince Hisahito Attends for 1st Time
The Emperor and the Empress attended the New Year’s greetings ceremony at the Imperial Palace, where they received greetings from members of the Imperial Family and the heads of the three branches of government.
January 1, 2026
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YOMIURI EDITORIAL
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Munich Security Conference: Japan Has Growing Role To Play in Rebuilding World Order
The Munich Security Conference in Germany highlighted the division between the United States, which has abandoned its role in maintaining order, and Europe. Anxiety about the future is spreading throughout the international community.
February 17, 2026 -
Lackluster GDP Figure: Economic Vitality Won’t Return If Depreciation of Yen Goes Unaddressed
Persistent high prices are weighing on economic growth. To regain vitality through domestic demand, it is essential to correct the yen’s excessive depreciation and create an environment conducive to wage increases.
February 17, 2026 -
Revitalization of Shipbuilding Industry: Counter Chinese, S. Korean Competitors through Technological Innovation
Can Japan’s shipbuilding industry launch a counteroffensive and regain its position, having been overshadowed by Chinese and South Korean competitors? Japan must chart a path to revival as a major shipbuilding nation with technological innovation.
February 16, 2026 -
Sexual Abuse by Doctors: Despicable Acts that Betray Patient Trust
There is no end to incidents involving indecent acts committed by doctors and nurses against patients. Some of the victims are minors.
February 16, 2026 -
Reform of Retrial System: Diet Must Thoroughly Discuss Remedies for Wrongful Convictions
The government has compiled a set of proposals for reforming the nation’s retrial system, which is intended to aid victims of false convictions by retrying their cases. However, criticism persists that the proposals are substantially insufficient.
February 15, 2026 -
Food Banks: New System Should Help Support People’s Needs
While some people struggle with rising prices, a significant amount of food goes unsold and ends up being discarded. Efforts should be made to develop a new system in which businesses donate such food and the donations are used to support people in need.
February 15, 2026
POLITICS
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AI Agents Should Consult Humans, Say New Rules from Japanese Govt
With the spread of AI products that handle tasks autonomously, the government plans to ask AI operators to build systems that require decision-making by humans.
February 17, 2026 -
Takaichi Chats with Tunku Tunku, Interactive Mascot for International Horticultural Expo 2027
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi enjoyed chatting with Tunku Tunku, the official mascot of the International Horticultural Expo 2027, Yokohama (Green x Expo 2027), placed in the entrance hall of the Prime Minister’s Office in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, on Monday.
February 17, 2026 -
Japan’s Updated ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ Initiative to Strengthen Cooperation on Economic Security with Like-Minded Nations
Japan’s newly updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific initiative will strengthen cooperation on economic security with like-minded nations in the Indo-Pacific region, according to a draft revision revealed by several government sources.
February 17, 2026
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Ruling Coalition Calls for Opposition Participation in ‘National Council’ to Discuss Consumption Tax Reduction, Refundable Tax Credits
Senior members of the ruling coalition and opposition parties exchanged views on a supra-party “national council” for introducing consumption tax reduction and refundable tax credits among other issues during an NHK program on Sunday.
February 17, 2026 -
Japan’s Foreign Minister Says No Contact With China’s Counterpart During Security Conference in Munich
MUNICH — Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters on Saturday that he had no contact with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi during the Munich Security Conference.
February 16, 2026 -
Japan Moves to Strengthen Europe Ties at Munich Security Conference as China Exploits U.S.-Europe Divide
MUNICH — In an unusual move, Japan dispatched both Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi to the Munich Security Conference held in Munich from Friday through Sunday. As China intensifies efforts to draw closer to Europe amid growing distrust of the Donald Trump administration in the United States, the Japanese government aims to reinforce its ties with European partners.
February 16, 2026
BUSINESS
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TEPCO’s Niigata Pref. Nuclear Power Plant Begins Transmitting Power to Tokyo Area, 1st Time in 14 Years
Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. said the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station in Niigata Prefecture has begun transmitting electricity to the Tokyo metropolitan area for the first time in 14 years.
5 hours ago -
Toyota Highlander Reverse Imported from the U.S. to Japan Will Be Official State Vehicle
A Toyota Highlander SUV manufactured in the United States and reverse imported to Japan was introduced as an official state vehicle by the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry on Monday.
February 17, 2026 -
Taisei Unveils ‘Zero-Carbon Building’ in Japan’s Saitama Prefecture
Taisei Corp. unveiled a building on Monday that can practically achieve net-zero carbon dioxide emissions, including throughout all construction and demolition processes. The “zero-carbon building” built in Satte, Saitama Prefecture, can also address CO2 emissions that come from building materials.
February 17, 2026
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Japan’s Lotteria Restaurant Operator Co. Changes Name, Will Rebrand Its Hamburger Stores Under Zetteria Brand
Hamburger restaurant operating company Lotteria Co. a subsidiary of major restaurant group Zensho Holdings Co., changed its name to Burger One Co. on Monday.
February 16, 2026 -
1st Overseas Suke-San Udon to Open in Taiwan; Company Aims for More Than 100 Overseas Outlets
Major Japanese restaurant operator Skylark Holdings Co. announced Friday that it will open its first overseas branch of the Sukesan Udon restaurant chain in Taiwan in June.
February 16, 2026 -
Takaichi to Hold First Meeting with BOJ Chief Ueda Since Election Win
TOKYO - Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will hold their first bilateral meeting on Monday since the ruling party’s landslide election victory, which could serve as a venue to discuss the central bank’s rate-hike plans. The meeting at 5 p.m. comes amid simmering market speculation that the rising cost of living, driven in part by the weak yen, could prod the central bank to raise interest rates as soon as March or April. Their previous face-to-face talks, held in November, laid the groundwork for the BOJ’s rate hike in December. At the time of the meeting, the yen was slumping on the view that Takaichi would push back against an early rate hike by the BOJ. Ueda told reporters after the November meeting the premier “seemed to have acknowledged” his explanation that the BOJ was gradually raising rates to ensure Japan made a smooth landing towards its inflation target. A month later, the BOJ raised its short-term policy rate to a 30-year high of 0.75%. Takaichi’s historic election win on February 8 has heightened market attention to whether the dovish premier will renew her calls for the BOJ to keep interest rates low.
February 16, 2026 -
Sony’s Entertainment Focus Becomes Even Clearer; Shift Away from Consumer Products Marks Move Toward Entertainment
Sony Group Corp. has continually been downsizing its once stellar consumer electronics business and clarifying its shift to the entertainment industry, which includes games and music.
February 16, 2026
WORLD
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South Korea to Establish ‘K-Food’ Brand as ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Boosts Global Interest in Instant Noodles
SEOUL — Exports of South Korean instant noodles are on the rise, a trend believed to be linked to the growing popularity of South Korean films and other cultural products overseas.
February 15, 2026 -
Israeli Ambassador to Japan Speaks about Japan’s Role in the Reconstruction of Gaza
Israeli Ambassador to Japan Gilad Cohen spoke about Japan’s expected role in the reconstruction of war-ravaged Gaza, during an interview with The Japan News in Tokyo.
February 6, 2026 -
Tae Hitoto Leads Japanese Cyclists Planning Trip Around Taiwan to Express Gratitude for Post-Disaster Support
TAIPEI — A group of cyclists led by actress and author Tae Hitoto plans to cycle around Taiwan to express their gratitude to people in the region who donated a large sum of money after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.
February 5, 2026
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Russia: Visa Required for Visiting Graves in Northern Territories, Lifting of Sanctions Also Necessary
The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday that obtaining a Russian visa would be required for former residents seeking to visit the graves of relatives in the northern territories, effectively rejecting Japan’s request for the resumption of visits.
February 3, 2026 -
Chinese Embassy in Japan Reiterates Call for Chinese People to Refrain from Traveling to Japan; Call Comes in Wake of ¥400 Mil. Robbery
BEIJING — The Chinese Embassy in Japan reiterated its call for Chinese nationals to restrain from traveling to Japan in a social media post on Friday.
January 31, 2026 -
North Korea Possibly Launches Ballistic Missile
North Korea has launched what appears to be a ballistic missile on Tuesday, Japan's Ministry of Defense announced.
January 27, 2026
NEWS SERVICES
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Trump Says Japan to Invest in Energy, Industrial Projects in Ohio, Texas and Georgia
WASHINGTON, Feb 17 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday announced three projects valued at $36 billion to be financed by Japan, including an oil export facility in Texas, an industrial diamonds plant in Georgia and a natural gas power plant in Ohio.
32 min ago -
Judge Tells US National Park Service to Reinstall Philadelphia Slavery Exhibit
NEW YORK/ WASHINGTON, Feb 16 (Reuters) - A U.S. federal judge in Pennsylvania ordered the National Park Service on Monday to reinstall a slavery exhibit at a Philadelphia historic site, pending the outcome of litigation after the city sued the government over its removal.
February 17, 2026 -
U.K. Eyes Rapid Ban on Social Media for under 16s, Curbs to AI Chatbots
LONDON (Reuters) — Britain could bring in an Australian-style ban on social media for children under 16 as early as this year and close a loophole that left some AI chatbots outside safety rules, as part of government efforts to respond more quickly to digital risks.
February 17, 2026
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The One Industry Powering the U.S. Labor Market
Nearly all of the jobs added to the U.S. economy in recent months have come from one industry: health care.
February 17, 2026 -
Md. Districts Criticized for Using Muslim Holiday as Storm Makeup Day
After a harsh winter storm pummeled the D.C. region last month, Maryland’s two largest school districts are facing backlash for using a Muslim holiday to make up for lost class time.
February 17, 2026 -
Aliens Are ‘Real,’ Obama Says, as Washington Shrugs
Former president Barack Obama this weekend appeared to drop an otherworldly bombshell: extraterrestrials exist.
February 17, 2026 -
New Mexico Approves Comprehensive Probe of Epstein’s Zorro Ranch
SANTA FE, Feb 16 (Reuters) - New Mexico lawmakers on Monday passed legislation to launch what they said was the first full investigation into what happened at Zorro Ranch, where the late U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is accused of trafficking and sexually assaulting girls and women.
February 17, 2026
EDITORIAL & COLUMNS
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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 -
Hakone Ekiden Running Relay Opens Up to More Universities, a Move that may Strengthen Japanese Long-Distance Running
Watching a live broadcast of the Hakone Ekiden, a long-distance running relay held annually on Jan. 2 and 3, has become a New Year’s tradition in Japan.
January 31, 2026
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PM Takaichi Should Help Young Japanese Break Seniority Barrier to Vitalize Politics
About two months ago, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi wrote on social media that she had broken a glass ceiling when she was elected president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and then took office as the first female head of Japan’s government.
January 24, 2026 -
Takaichi Should Learn the Patience of Fukuzawa
By Masayuki Yamauchi / Special to The Yomiuri Shimbun [posttime] JST, [postdate] What should a government leader or a diplomat say when meeting someone for the first time? Sixteenth-century Italian diplomat Stefano Guazzo offered this advice, quoted in the Essays of Michel de Montaigne: “It’s enough for the helmsman to think about the winds; the herdsman …January 23, 2026 -
AI, Initially a Tool, is Evolving into a Partner – But is it a Good One?
AI, once merely a tool that responded to human commands, is rapidly moving into new roles. A new everyday reality is emerging in which people consult AI about troubles that they find it hard to discuss even with friends or parents.
January 17, 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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Milano Cortina 2026: Japan’s Ami Nakai Leads Women’s Figure Skating Short Program Followed by Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, Alysa Liu of U.S.
MILAN -- Japan's Ami Nakai, 17, lead the women's figure skating short program with 78.71 on Tuesday at the Milano Cortina Olympic Games, followed by Japan's Kaori Sakamoto in second and Alysa Liu of the United States third heading into Thursday's free skate.
2 hours ago -
Milano Cortina 2026: Japan Gains Bronze in Speed Skating Women’s Team Pursuit (Update 1)
Japan gained bronze in speed skating women's team pursuit at the Milano Cortina Olympics on Tuesday, defeating the United States in the race to win bronze medal.
9 hours ago -
Milano Cortina 2026: Riku Miura, Ryuichi Kihara Clinch Japan’s 1st Gold in Pairs Figure Skating, Rebounding from Disappointing Short Program
MILAN — Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara on Monday made a stunning comeback from their disappointing short program performance, winning gold in pairs figure skating in Milan. It was Japan’s first Olympic title in the category.
February 17, 2026
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Milano Cortina 2026: Kobayashi’s Super Team Medal Bid Meets Sudden End; Heavy Snow Forces Halt to Ski Jump Competition
Bad weather brought a sudden and disappointing end to the third Olympic appearance of ski jumper Ryoyu Kobayashi, the gold medalist from the previous Games. Japan finished sixth in the men’s super team event on Monday (early Tuesday Japan time) after the competition was halted due to bad weather, preventing the 29-year-old from completing his final jump.
February 17, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara Win Japan’s First Olympic Pairs Gold with a World-Record Free Skate
MILAN (AP) — Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara thought their chances of Olympic gold had gone by the wayside when the Japanese skaters made an uncharacteristic slip-up during their short program at the Milan Cortina Games.
February 17, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: Figure Skaters Riku Miura, Ryuichi Kihara Pair Win Gold; Dramatic Comeback from 5th Place in SP
Figure skating pair Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara, who placed fifth in the short program (SP), won the gold medal on Monday with a total score of 231.24 points after setting a new world record in the free skate at the Milano Cortina Olympics.
February 17, 2026 -
Milano Cortina 2026: Speed Skater Miho Takagi Extends Olympic Medal Haul to 9, Has Most Among Japanese Female Athletes for Summer, Winter Games
MILAN — Speed skater Miho Takagi won bronze in the women’s 500 meters in Milan on Sunday during the 10th day of action of the Milano Cortina Winter Games, clocking 37.27 seconds. The Netherlands’ Femke Kok earned gold with an Olympic record of 36.49 while fellow Dutch skater Jutta Leerdam took silver at 37.17.
February 16, 2026
SCIENCE & NATURE
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Record 700 Startups to Gather at SusHi Tech Tokyo in April; Event Will Center on Themes Like Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Over 700 startups, a record high, are expected to exhibit at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, a gathering of innovators from around the world, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced on Monday.
February 17, 2026 -
Japan Institute to Use Domestic Commercial Optical Lattice Clock to Set Japan Standard Time
An optical lattice clock, which is only off by one second every 10 billion years, will be used to decide Japan Standard Time, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned.
January 28, 2026 -
Japan to Face Shortfall of 3.39 Million Workers in AI, Robotics in 2040; Clerical Workers Seen to Be in Surplus
Japan will face a shortfall of 3.39 million workers in fields related to artificial intelligence and robotics in 2040, according to estimates by the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry.
January 27, 2026
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Space Mission Demonstrates Importance of International Cooperation, Astronaut Kimiya Yui Says
WASHINGTON — Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, who recently returned from the International Space Station, said his mission demonstrated the importance of international cooperation.
January 22, 2026 -
Univ. in Japan, Tokyo-Based Startup to Develop Satellite for Disaster Prevention Measures, Bears
Yamagata University will develop and launch its own ultra-small satellite in partnership with a Tokyo-based startup , the university announced Thursday.
January 10, 2026 -
Japanese Astronaut Suwa to Stay Aboard ISS Until Around 2027; Japan’s 8th Astronaut to Have Long-Term Stay Aboard ISS
Makoto Suwa will become the 8th Japanese astronaut to complete a long-term stay aboard the International Space Station starting around 2027, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has announced.
January 10, 2026 -
Tsunami Can Travel Vast Distances Before Striking, Warn Japanese Researchers
Tsunami caused by the magnitude 8.8 quake that struck near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula last summer likely rebounded off South America and reached Japan about 48 hours later, according to analysis by the Japan Meteorological Agency’s research institute.
Tsunami that travel long distances before reaching Japan have been known to cause damage in many cases. Experts urge the public to be aware of the risks.
January 6, 2026
CULTURE
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Piece by Germany’s ‘Last’ Romantic Composer Debuts in Japan With Performance by Yomiuri Orchestra
Sebastian Weigle masterfully conducted the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra (YNSO) in the Japanese premiere of Hans Pfitzner’s “Von Deutscher Seele” (Of the German soul) at Suntory Hall in Akasaka, Tokyo, on Jan. 20.
February 13, 2026 -
New Drama Spotlights Feudal Lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Brother, Actor Taiga Nakano Hopes to ‘Vividly Express His Energy’
This year’s NHK annual historical drama “Toyotomi Kyodai!” (“Brothers in Arms”) offers a fresh perspective on the genre with its portrayal of 16th-century feudal warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his era, which have been depicted many times in dramas and other media, from the point of view of his younger brother, who supported him.
February 13, 2026 -
Blu-ray Release of ‘Kaiketsu Zubat’ Reflects Ongoing Popularity of Series Due to Actor’s Flashy Stunts
In December, I emceed an event about a unique hero. My guest and conversation partner was Hiroshi Miyauchi, who appeared in the “Kaiketsu Zubat” (Zubat the marvelous hero) series broadcast in 1977, playing the hero Zubat and his secret identity Ken Hayakawa. The event celebrated the series being chosen from many tokusatsu works for release on Blu-ray, as determined by a fan vote conducted by Toei Video Co.“Zubat” features private detective Hayakawa, who witnesses his best friend being murdered by a criminal organization. To avenge his friend, he dons the Zubat Suit developed by the friend and transforms into a superhero, eliminating the organization’s subordinate gangs across Japan. “Zubat” is said to have been inspired by the popular “Wataridori” (Vagabond) film series.Hayakawa is super cool. Dressed in a red shirt, black leather suit and black hat pulled low over his eyes, he appears in front of a gang bodyguard, strumming a white guitar, and taunts him, saying, “Your skills are second best in Japan.” When the bodyguard angrily asks, “Then who is the best in Japan?” Hayakawa points at himself, shrugs and winks. This cool demeanor is unforgettable, and epitomizes the superhero’s charm and character.In addition to playing Hayakawa, Miyauchi is also known for roles like the hero Shiro Kazami in “Kamen Rider V3,” and Ao (Blue ranger) and Akira Shinmei, the alter ego of Ao, in “Himitsu Sentai Gorenger.”
February 13, 2026
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Tokyo Exhibition Offers Inside Look at Impressionism; 70 of 100 Works on ‘Interiors’ by Monet, Others on Loan from Paris
Impressionism is often associated with the outdoors. Even its name, ironically coined by a scathing critic, comes from a Claude Monet painting of a sunrise called “Impression, soleil levant” (“Impression, sunrise”).
February 8, 2026 -
Hidetoshi Nishijima Puts Fatherhood on Display in Amazon Drama Series ‘Human Specimens’
Filicide is a taboo. So is using a corpse to make a work of art. Taboos pile up in Kanae Minato’s novel “Ningen Hyohon” (“Human Specimen”), which has now been adapted into the drama series “Human Specimens,” streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video since Dec. 19.Hidetoshi Nishijima, who plays the protagonist of the series, recently spoke to The Yomiuri Shimbun about the experience of acting in this shocking work.When he received the offer to appear in the series, he said, he ran to a book shop and bought a copy of the novel, which he found fascinating. “I read it and immediately told them I wanted to be in the show,” he said.“It was very interesting and rewarding to read, a deep human drama,” said Nishijima. He added that his first thought after finishing it was that he wanted to take on the challenge of bringing it to the screen.In the story, the bodies of six boys are discovered inside acrylic cases on a mountain one summer day. Shiro Sakaki, the protagonist, a university professor known as an expert on butterflies, turns himself in for the crime. According to Shiro, since childhood, he has been making butterfly specimens and nurturing his obsessive desire to “preserve beauty for eternity.” Now, he says, this drive has led him to make human specimens, using the bodies of boys with good looks and artistic gifts, including his only son, Itaru (Ichikawa Somegoro). The story goes through several twists before reaching a conclusion viewers could never imagine.
February 6, 2026 -
Shogi Star Sota Fujii Earns Record ¥200 Million Plus, Reigns as Money Leader for 4th Consecutive Year
Shogi genius Sota Fujii set a new record high for prize money and playing fees in 2025, according to an announcement made by the Japan Shogi Association on Tuesday.
February 4, 2026
PERSPECTIVES
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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 -
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
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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 -
Montbell Founder Isamu Tatsuno’s Love of Mountain Climbing Driving Force Behind Outdoor Gear Company’s Success 50 Years On
Isamu Tatsuno, chairman of Montbell Co., said the past 50 years has been a period in which “I converted my favorite things into business,” during an interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun.
January 20, 2026 -
What Filmmaking in Japan Looks Like from the Extra’s Perspective
The tide of blockbuster movies and hit dramas continues to rise. Every day, new releases generate buzz as they premier in theaters, on TV and on streaming services.
January 14, 2026
DELICIOUS
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High-Hydration Bread on the Rise, Seeing Increase in Specialty Shops, Recipe Searches
February 15, 2026 -
Kanto-Style Oden Perfect for Cold Months; Culinary Researcher Ryuta Kijima Tells How to Make the Warming Winter Dish
February 15, 2026 -
Maltese Pavilion’s Famous Ftira Bread Now Available in Osaka; Loaves Became Popular during 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo
February 8, 2026 -
Mild Inada Yellowtail a Versatile Choice for Any Meal at Affordable Price
February 8, 2026
JAPAN IN FOCUS
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Ginza West Confectionery Store Staying True to Its Roots
February 17, 2026 -
Ehime: High School Develops Petting Zoo to Attract More Students
February 14, 2026 -
Nara: Temple Holds Bamboo Sake Ritual to Pray for Preventing Cancer
February 14, 2026 -
Heirs to Kyoto Talent: Craftsman Works to Keep Tradition of ‘Kinran’ Brocade Alive Through Initiatives, New Creations
February 14, 2026
TRAVEL SPOTS
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White and Pink Plum Blossoms Begin to Bloom at Yuki Shrine in Japan’s Mie Prefecture
February 15, 2026 -
Tokyo’s New Record-Breaking Fountain Named ‘Tokyo Aqua Symphony’
February 15, 2026 -
Saga: Japan’s Primitive Period-Themed Experience Complex to Open with Lodging Facilities
February 14, 2026 -
Traditional Japanese Kamakura Snow Hut Festival Kicks off in Akita Pref.
February 14, 2026
TROUBLESHOOTER
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I’m Anxious About My Daughter, As She Makes No Effort to Find a Spouse
February 15, 2026 -
My Mother Pushes for Marriage after Mistaking My Client’s Courtesy for Love
February 15, 2026 -
My Self-Centered Husband Disgusts Me and Is Not Good for My Mental Health
February 8, 2026 -
Called ‘Inefficient’ in The Kitchen 10 Years Ago, Cooking Is Painful Even Now
February 8, 2026







