RSSREGIONS: COUNTRIES:
Tokyo's Trials: Can the DPJ Change Japan
Yoichi Funabashi
The rise to power of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) after half a century of almost uninterrupted rule by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) could bring profound changes to Japan. It now stands a better chance of becoming a two-party system, with real political competition, than at any time since 1890, when it held its first election. However, ...
Changes Comes to Japan but How Much
Ian Bremmer
Few recognize how historic the DPJ victory really is. Japan's Liberal Democratic Party had held power for so long that the world had come to know it as 'the ruling LDP.' But as elections approached, Japanese voters told pollsters that the party had not responded forcefully to the country's recession. LDP approval ratings had been circling the drain for months. Only the scale of the DPJ's landslide win caught anyone by surprise
Letter From Tokyo: New Regime, New Relationship
Kent E. Calder
The DPJ now holds nearly two-thirds of the 480 seats in the Japanese Diet's powerful lower house, which approves budgets, initiates most legislation, and selects the prime minister. Given such dominance, the party, however fractious, will likely remain in power for at least the four years of its new parliamentary mandate -- influencing the country's political-economic landscape during a crucial period of transition in East Asian affairs, and potentially in U.S.-Japanese relations as well.
Japan's New Leader and His Country's Fealty to Washington
William Pfaff
The landslide election of Japan's Democratic Party in last weekend's parliamentary vote parallels the election of Barack Obama to the American presidency last November. In both cases opposition parties long out of power (in the Japanese case, all but totally excluded from national power during the six decades of the postwar Japanese government's existence) have been elected at a time of crisis to change the nation's policy.
Beaujolais nouveau hot in Japan - literally
Japan's craze for Beaujolais nouveau has beaten the global recession, with tourists taking a dip Thursday in a hot mountain spring coloured red with the fruity wine. The Hakone Kowakien Yunessun spa resort celebrated the annual uncorking of the seasonal drop by having a sommelier pour a few bottles into an open-air hot spring bath as holiday-makers enjoyed soaking themselves. (AFP)
Ichihashi lawyers slam interrogation methods
Lawyers for Tatsuya Ichihashi urged prosecutors and police Thursday to improve their interrogation methods, arguing that a prosecutor had told the suspect during a grilling that he could be hanged for the 2007 murder of Briton Lindsay Ann Hawker.
"It is illegitimate to investigate by making up scenarios," one of the lawyers told a news conference, during which they quoted Ichihashi as saying he was told by a prosecutor at the Chiba District Public Prosecutor's Office that the death sentence is a possibility. (Japan Times)
Talks to free Japanese abducted in Yemen stall in final stage
Negotiations to release a Japanese engineer kidnapped by armed tribesmen in Yemen have fallen into difficulty in the final stage, sources close to the talks said Thursday.
The negotiations moved closer to an agreement, with local tribal leaders pledging to the captors that they will ask the Yemeni government to free a jailed relative, as demanded by the tribesmen, in exchange for the Japanese engineer and his driver, the sources said. (AP)
Japan embarks on annual whale hunt--can Sea Shepherd be far behind?
Whaling ships from Japan left today for Antarctic waters on an annual five-month voyage in pursuit of about 1,000 minke whales and a small number of endangered fin whales.
The seasonal hunts, during the Antarctic summer, are highly controversial. They're carried out in the name of research but the meat is sold in Japanese markets and restaurants and whatever research is conducted has been deemed questionable and unnecessary by many scientists outside Japan. (Los Angeles Times)
New hope for plucky Japanese asteroid mission
Japanese engineers have devised a plan to combine parts from two partially-failed ion engines to resume the Hayabusa asteroid probe's journey back to Earth. In a press release Thursday, officials said they will use the neutralizer of Thruster A and the ion source of Thruster B to provide enough power to guide the 950-pound spacecraft home next June. (spaceflightnow.com)
Baseball: Tough times for Japanese baseball
Facing losses of US$3.3 million in 2010, Japanese professional baseball is considering a series of international games involving Japan's national team to bring in revenue. Under the proposal being discussed, Japan's national team would play as many as 20 international exhibition games in February, March, July and November. (canoe.ca)
Woman linked to Tottori deaths, partner indicted on fraud charges
A 35-year-old woman with links to six men whose suspicious deaths were recently uncovered in Tottori Prefecture and her 46-year- old male roommate were served fresh arrest warrants Friday for fraud after previously being indicted on separate fraud charges.
The six deceased had been acquainted with or had financial troubles with the woman, who was an employee of a bar in the city of Tottori, and police are investigating their deaths with a view to building murder cases. (AP)
Maria Ozawa, other acclaimed AV actresses on auction as stagnation sticks
Buried in the back of Weekly Playboy (Nov. 23) is a report claiming that the lingering recession is resulting in popular adult video (AV) actresses increasingly being auctioned off at top-class sex establishments with none other than starlet Maria Ozawa appearing on the block.
A conventional deri heru (out-call) sex service, the tabloid explains, has an image of being inexpensive, but one staffed with AV ladies is quite the opposite, commanding fees between 30,000 and 50,000 yen a pop for run-of-the-mill actresses and three or four times those figures for top-name talents. (Tokyo Reporter)
Japan's obesity association may revise controversial metabolic gauge
Japan's obesity research association is considering revising as early as next year the waistline threshold, a key gauge used to diagnose obesity and metabolic syndrome, to better reflect the reality of health conditions among the Japanese, sources close to the association said Wednesday.
The Japan Society for the Study of Obesity currently sets the benchmark waist size at 85 centimeters or more for men, and 90 cm or more for women to diagnose obesity. Japan's health ministry has been using the criteria in metabolic syndrome check-ups. (AP)
Acid mishap on Tokyo train injures passengers
Several people were injured when a stone worker riding on a Tokyo subway train accidentally broke a container of hydrochloric acid he was carrying, the fire department and media said Wednesday.
Television showed emergency vehicles and rescue workers in protective gear at Nihonbashi station in the crowded center of the Japanese capital.
The fire department said three people had been taken to hospital, while media reports said four were injured.
(Reuters)
Japanese curry, snubbed by Michelin, finds fans
The Michelin Guide's list of top Tokyo restaurants features French eateries, sushi shops and even blowfish specialists. Left entirely unrepresented is one of Japan's favorite foods: curry.
Yet this gooey, affordable culinary transplant regularly tops surveys as the favorite food among Japanese school kids and adults. Introduced from India by way of English traders in the 19th century, curry has been adapted to local taste and has become as much a part of Japanese popular culture as baseball. (Bloomberg)
Ichihashi given nutrient shot after staggering on way to questioning
Tatsuya Ichihashi, the prime suspect in the 2007 murder of British woman Lindsay Hawker, received a nutritional supplement shot Monday after staggering on his way to an interrogation room, his lawyer said Wednesday.
Ichihashi, 30, who is believed not to have eaten anything since his arrest on Nov. 10, lost his balance when he was heading to the room from his cell, prompting the police to give him the injection, the lawyer said after meeting with him. (AP)
Police determine U.S. serviceman involved in fatal Okinawa hit-and-run
Police have determined that a U.S. Army serviceman was involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident in Okinawa Prefecture and are seeking the U.S. military's cooperation in urging him to present himself to the Japanese authorities, police sources said Wednesday.
The 27-year-old staff sergeant at the Torii communication station in Yomitan, Okinawa, has refused to face Japanese investigators, claiming their investigation is not being carried out fairly. (AP)
Fewer Korean residents seek Japanese citizenship
Four out of five Koreans in Japan have no desire to become naturalized Japanese citizens, a straw poll suggests. Japanese Justice Ministry statistics show around 10,000 Koreans became naturalized between 2003 and 2009. Around 62,000 North Koreans and around 486,000 South Koreans have settled in Japan with permanent residency status as of July 2009. (chosun.com)
Man barred from China lives in Japanese airport
Feng Zhenghu's life resembles a movie, but it's not quite as glamorous. For one thing, he's an awful lot smellier than Tom Hanks was when he played the part of an airline passenger caught in the no man's land of an international airport.
The environmentally friendly washrooms at Tokyo's Narita Airport are so stingy with the water they apportion at each sink that Feng says he has not been able to have anything resembling a bath for the two weeks he's been living in the international arrivals area, in the space between the airline gates and the immigration booths. (canada.com)
Miss Universe 3some sex scandal
Cyberspace has erupted with talk of two Miss Universe contestants involved in a threesome with a fine arts photographer.
Miss Universe Japan 2008 Hiroko Mima and Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago 2008 Anya Ayoung-Chee are said to have had sex with Anya's boyfriend Wyatt Gallery, and with each other.
Some websites even claim to have an intimate video of the alleged sexual escapades of the trio.
One website claimed it had four videos, along with pictures, of the two girls and Wyatt "having a really good time." (AsiaOne)
'Nobu' fever: Japan falls for a blind piano prodigy
As Nobuyuki Tsujii finished the last note of Andante spianato et Grande Polonaise brillante by Chopin, the packed audience in Tokyo's Kioi Hall broke into an emotional applause. Executing each piece with energy and concentration, the 21-year-old classical pianist, who has been blind since birth, mesmerized the typically reserved Tokyo crowd in a two-hour solo performance on his latest tour. Kumi Araki, a 25-year-old from downtown Toyko, gushed. "I am so moved. Before I knew it, I was standing to applaud!" she says, wiping at tears. (Time)
Lindsay Ann Hawker suspect attracts support from Japanese women
Tatsuya Ichihashi, the man suspected of killing the British teacher Lindsay Ann Hawker, has become a bizarre object of admiration among a number of online communities of Japanese women. Posting on social networking sites such as Mixi and 2Channel, some have even taken to referring to Ichihashi as The Fugitive Prince or Lord Ichi. Others have claimed that he could not possibly have committed the crime because he looks so kind. (telegraph.co.uk)
Scant welcome for refugees in Japan
In a cramped apartment in Tokyo, volunteers are teaching Burmese asylum seekers how to make clothes combining Japanese fashion with their own traditional embroidery.
They hope the project will give women like Lu [not her real name] a way to make ends meet.
It has been three years since Lu fled Burma, leaving her husband and children behind. She claimed asylum on arrival in Tokyo and was sent straight to an immigration detention centre where she spent almost a year. (BBC)
Abducted Japanese man still held by Yemeni tribesmen
A Japanese man held hostage in Yemen was not released late on Tuesday because of a last-minute dispute between Yemeni tribesmen and mediators, a provincial official said on Wednesday.
The same official had told Reuters on Tuesday night that the tribesmen had handed the hostage to mediators and that the man, an engineer abducted in an area northeast of the capital Sanaa, was expected to arrive soon in Sanaa. (Reuters)
Users of Net cafes on dangerous ground
From high school girls to foreign nationals, a growing number of people in downtown Tokyo are taking advantage of the anonymity of certain Internet cafes in dangerous ways.
Some people want to conceal their identities and these cafes have given their tacit approval.
Others just want to feel safe when using Internet cafes. Will confirming users' identities really become standard at Internet cafes?
(Yomiuri)
Internet cafes to name names / Anonymity leads to increased crime, hinders police investigations
Anonymous use of Internet cafes may soon be a thing of the past, partly due to the case of recently captured fugitive Tatsuya Ichihashi.
Customers are not currently required to provide proof of identity at some Internet cafes--a situation that can hinder police investigations, as seen in the case of Ichihashi, who was arrested on Nov. 10 on suspicion of abandoning the body of an English language teacher.
Ichihashi was on the run for more than two years and is believed to have used Internet cafes during that time. (Yomiuri)
Suspect in murder of British woman administered nutrition
Tatsuya Ichihashi, the prime suspect in the 2007 murder of 22-year-old English language teacher Lindsay Hawker, was administered nutritional supplements Tuesday as he has not eaten anything since his arrest on Nov. 10, investigative sources said.
The Chiba prefectural police called a doctor to Gyotoku police station in Chiba where Ichihashi, 22, is being held to administer nutritional supplements to him, fearing that he may become ill if he continues to eat nothing, the sources said. (AP)
Soldier decries hit-and-run probe
A U.S. Army sergeant suspected of being involved in a fatal hit-and-run in Okinawa has claimed the investigation by Japanese police is not being carried out fairly, his lawyer said Tuesday.
The 27-year-old staff sergeant at the Torii communications station in Yomitan has also refused to face Japanese investigators unless a video recording of the interrogation is permitted, his lawyer, Toshimitsu Takaesu, said. (Japan Times)
Record student suicides in 2008
A record 972 students, from elementary school age through university level, took their lives in 2008, the highest number since the government began compiling data in 1978. The figure was an increase of 99 over the previous year.
According to an annual government white paper released Tuesday, student suicides rose 11.3 percent from 2007. The number of such suicides has been on the rise since 2003.
(Asahi)
News On Japan
All the latest news on Japan
Darvish, Ramirez named MVPs of Japan leagues
TOKYO (AP) -- Venezuelan outfielder Alex Ramirez was named MVP of Japan's Central League for the second straight year on Wednesday while pitcher Yu Darvish took the Pacific League honors.
Mapping a floating swath of plastic waste
The center of the Pacific Gyre, an area of spiraling ocean currents, has accumulated large amounts of waste and debris that gets trapped by the large clockwise flow of water between North America and Japan.
Japan pledges to be more independent from Washington
U.S. President Barack Obama chose to make Japan the first stop in his first presidential visit to Asia -- a decision that Japan's new prime minister says signifies the importance Washington attaches to its alliance with Tokyo.
Charges dropped against American father in Japan custody battle
Authorities have officially dropped all charges against an American who tried to snatch back his children from his ex-wife in Japan, the Fukuoka prosecutor's office said Thursday.
Yomiuri Giants capture Japan Series in 6 games
TOKYO (AP) -- Catcher Shinnosuke Abe drove in the game-winning run to help the Yomiuri Giants defeat the Nippon Ham Fighters 2-0 and win the Japan Series in six games.
Seibu Lions win rights to 18-year-old phenom
TOKYO (AP) -- The Seibu Lions of Japan's Pacific League have won the right to negotiate with highly sought after high school pitcher Yusei Kikuchi.
Vitamin cafes: Japan's latest health injection
In trendy neighborhoods of Tokyo customers are lining up for vitamin injections that promise to improve health and beauty.
Western nations urge Japan to sign child abduction treaty
The ambassadors of eight Western nations urged Japan on Friday to consider signing The Hague Convention on international child abduction.
2 dead as Typhoon Melor lashes Japan
Typhoon Melor roared into central Japan on Thursday, leaving two people dead and lashing the region with heavy rain and gusty winds.
Group calls for release of American dad jailed in Japan
A handful of people rallied outside the Japanese Embassy on Saturday to show support for an American man who is jailed in Japan, accused of trying to kidnap his own children.
Dad in Japan custody battle thought wife would take kids
On February 12, 2009, Christopher Savoie received an e-mail from his ex-wife that he had feared would come.
American jailed in Japan for trying to reclaim his children
Had this custody drama played out in the United States, Christopher Savoie might be considered a hero -- snatching his two little children back from an ex-wife who defied the law and ran off with them.
Japan paves the way in robotic research
Japan has long been the world leader in robotics research, but in recent years it's also been leading the way when it comes to cutting-edge medical technology.
Japan prepares for new prime minister
Liberal Democratic Party Prime Minister Taro Aso resigned early Wednesday, setting the stage for Democratic Party of Japan leader Yukio Hatoyama to take over the reins of government.
Report: Death row inmates pushed to insanity in Japan
Death row inmates in Japan spend decades in isolation and face inhuman conditions that can lead to mental illness, Amnesty International said Thursday.
Plan would pay Japanese families to have kids
Yoshiko Sato would love to give her only son a brother or a sister. But money struggles and Japan's cost of living have pushed the mother to wait.
Challenges ahead for Japan's new ruling party
Now comes the hard part. Handed a sweeping mandate for change, the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) begins the formidable task of delivering on a laundry list of promises intended to lift the country after its worst recession since World War II.
Japanese opposition set for victory; PM quits as party head
Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso announced his resignation as head of the party that has governed Japan for decades following its apparent landslide defeat in elections Sunday.
Political shift likely as Japanese head to polls
Voters in Japan will turn out for parliamentary elections Sunday in what poll after poll shows will be a historic shift in political power to oust the ruling party.
Japan jobless rate hits record high
Unemployment in Japan hit 5.7% in July, the highest on record since World War II.
Disgruntled Japanese prepare to vote
The recession's latest victim in Japan may not be corporate earnings but the political careers of the ruling party in the country's parliament.
Earthquake strikes off Japan's coastline
A 6.7-magnitude earthquake hit off the shores of Japan on Monday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Magnitude 7.1 earthquake strikes Japan coast
A strong earthquake struck off the south coast of Japan on Sunday night local time, "jolting Tokyo and wide areas of eastern Japan," the country's Kyodo news agency reported.
Curbing a yen for Japanese stocks
Investors have been putting more money into Japanese equity funds than they've been taking out for four straight weeks, according to fund flow tracker EPFR. The streak is the longest since the third quarter of 2008.
Deadly Japan mudslides, floods leave 9 missing
Hundreds of rescue workers searched for missing residents Thursday -- two days after torrential rains triggered floods and mudslides in western Japan and killed eight people.
Love hotel business zooms despite downturn
Even in the midst of Japan's deepest economic recession since World War II, the country's love hotel industry is thriving.
Japan's 'herbivore men' -- less interested in sex, money
They are young, earn little and spend little, and take a keen interest in fashion and personal appearance -- meet the "herbivore men" of Japan.
Josh Gross: Is MMA in Japan sport or spoof?
There's no logic behind mixed martial arts events like last Tuesday's Dream 9 in Japan. None.
The cultural contributors to suicide in Asia
More than nuclear bomb tests, the suicide of former South Korean president Roh Moo-Hyun has stunned the South Korean public. While the news has shocked the nation, perhaps the level of surprise at the method wasn't as great.
Japan's GDP fell 4% last quarter
Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) fell 4% last quarter -- the fastest pace on record for the country, the government said Wednesday.
Commentary: Is stock rally for real?
Euphoria returns! Who could have guessed that Bank of America stock would rally 70 percent the week it learns the Feds are demanding new capital equal to nearly half the bank's market capitalization?
Japan destroyers set sail on anti-piracy mission
Two Japanese destroyers set sail Saturday on an anti-piracy mission off Somalia, the Japanese defense ministry said, marking the first policing action for the country's Maritime Self-Defense Force.
12 missing after Japanese boat capsizes
Twelve crew members were missing after a fishing boat capsized off southern Japan, the Japanese coast guard said Tuesday.
Schoolgirl told to choose: Country or parents
The clicking of dozens of news cameras drowned out the sobs of the 13-year-old girl, but her face explained what was happening in the departure hall of Japan's Narita International Airport.
Japan unveils $150 billion stimulus plan
Japan's Prime Minister Taro Aso announced a historic $150 billion stimulus package Friday aimed to turn around the recession in the world's second-largest economy.
Security Council wrestles with N. Korea launch
The five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Japan met Monday for a second closed-door session to hammer out a response to North Korea's weekend rocket launch in defiance of international opposition.
Japan to extend N. Korea sanctions
Japan is expected to extend economic sanctions against North Korea at a cabinet meeting later this week, a spokesman for Prime Minister Taro Aso said Monday.
Japan, Sweden may offer economic recovery lessons
As President Obama discusses the economic crisis with world leaders at the G-20 summit this week, two nations' experiences wrestling with similar financial troubles in recent history could offer recovery lessons for the United States.
U.S., Japan mobilize for N. Korean launch
Japan is mobilizing its missile defense system, and U.S. Navy ships are deploying to the Sea of Japan, as North Korea prepares to launch a rocket that is expected next month, officials said.
Tom Verducci: Japan's thrilling win a fitting final to second WBC
If you could hear yourself think at Dodger Stadium Monday -- and such an ordinary task became a downright challenge amid the 54,846 flag-waving, drum-beating, thunderstick-whacking, whistle-blowing, aisle-dancing zealots as Japan battled Korea in a final straight out of 1960s Americana -- what you understood was that the World Baseball Classic grew bigger and better in its second incarnation. An acquired taste for smug Americans, the party goes on in 2013 whether America wants to resist it or not, not unlike the soccer World Cup.
Deadly plane crash at Tokyo airport
The pilot and co-pilot aboard a FedEx cargo plane were killed when the plane burst into flames Monday while landing at Tokyo's Narita airport in Japan, airport and hospital officials said.
Tom Verducci: Japan gives USA lesson on WBC intensity, details
Five thoughts in the wake of Team USA's 9-4 loss to Japan in the World Baseball Classic semifinals.
Desperate Japanese head to 'suicide forest'
Aokigahara Forest is known for two things in Japan: breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and suicides. Also called the Sea of Trees, this destination for the desperate is a place where the suicidal disappear, often never to be found in the dense forest.
Japan threat to shoot down N. Korean satellite
Japan said Friday that it could shoot down the satellite that North Korean officials said they plan to launch.
Report: Japan to fight piracy off Africa
Japan's defense minister has ordered two destroyers to help fight piracy in the waters off Somalia, officials with the defense ministry told CNN.
Cliff Corcoran: Pool A rankings, notable names
Location: Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, Japan
Japan posts record trade deficit
Grappling with its worst economic crisis since World War II, Japan posted a record $10.1 billion trade deficit in January, the Ministry of Finance reported Wednesday.
Dice-K struggles in Japan's WBC tuneup
OSAKA, Japan (AP) -- Daisuke Matsuzaka struggled through 1 2/3 innings Wednesday but Japan recovered to defeat Australia 11-2 in a tuneup game for the World Baseball Classic.
Japan posts record trade gap
Grappling with its worst economic crisis since World War II, Japan posted a record $10.1 billion trade deficit in January, the Ministry of Finance reported Wednesday.
Dollar gains against euro
The dollar gained against the euro and the yen Monday as investors continued to worry about further danger for the economies of Europe and Japan.
Dawn of the dead banks
They walk among us. And they're a heck of a lot scarier than anything George A. Romero ever imagined.
Japan: Worst crisis since war's end
Japan is grappling with its worst economic crisis since the end of World War II, the nation's economic and fiscal policy minister said Monday.
Japan's economy 'worst since end of WWII'
Japan is grappling with its worst economic crisis since the end of World War II, the nation's economic and fiscal policy minister said Monday.
Japan's Mount Asama erupts
Japan's Mount Asama erupted early Monday, sending a plume of light ash more than a mile into the sky and prompting emergency officials to restrict travel near it.
Japan executes four convicted killers
Japan executed four convicted killers on death row Thursday, the government said, marking the first set of executions in the country since October 2008.
Japan executes four death-row inmates
Japan executed four convicted killers on death row on Thursday, the government said, marking the first set of executions in the country since October 2008.
Workers urged: Go home and multiply
Even before one reaches the front door of Canon's headquarters in Tokyo, one can sense the virtual stampede of employees pouring out of the building exactly at 5:30 p.m.
Japan launches satellite to eye greenhouse gases
The Japanese space agency launched a satellite Friday that will measure greenhouse gases from the earth's orbit.
Myths and truths about Japan's stimulus
As Barack Obama gets ready to sell his stimulus plan to the country, some critics are saying that massive government spending won't work. One big reason they're skeptical: Japan's experience in the 1990s, the country's so-called Lost Decade. But are they missing the real lessons?
Japan's industrial output sees record fall
Japan's government Friday released some key reports indicating the island nation's economy is suffering along with the rest of the world.
Japan's industry, employment weaker
Japan's government released some key reports Friday indicating the island nation's economy is suffering along with the rest of the world.
Japan mulls sending ships to Somalia to halt pirates
Japan is considering joining an international effort to protect ships from a growing threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden near Somalia, a top official told reporters.
Report: More elderly Japanese turn to petty crime
Beset by economic worries and loneliness, elderly Japanese are turning to petty crime in increasing numbers, the nation's Justice Ministry reports.
Japan recession deepens
European markets slipped solidly into negative territory on Monday, following news of a deepening recession in Japan and slumping sales at Toyota.
Japan tries to avoid another lost decade
The 1990s are commonly known as Japan's "lost decade." Now, this decade isn't looking too good either.
Britney Spears Loves Japan for Its Tiny Cars
Spears takes time from touring to visit a Buddhist temple – and marvel at the miniature automobiles!
Japan extends Indian Ocean mission
Japan's refueling mission in the Indian Ocean has been extended for another year by the country's parliament.
Oil ends at 21-month low
Oil fell on Monday and ended at a 21-month low as fears over the global economic slowdown accelerated on news that Japan officially fell into a recession.
Global stocks shaky amid economic woes
Global stocks wavered Monday on news that Japan's economy, the second largest in the world, had fallen into recession.
Japan - world's No. 2 economy - in recession
Japan -- the world's second-largest economy -- is in a recession, government officials announced Monday.
Pepsi Ice Cucumber, Anyone?
In Japan's snack and beverage market, the new new thing is already so last week
Japan fires military chief over WWII denial
A state-run Chinese newspaper expressed relief Monday that senior Japanese officials had dismissed the country's air force chief after he denied Japan's aggression before and during World War II.
Japanese girl born to Indian surrogate arrives home
A 3-month-old girl born to an Indian surrogate mother has flown to Japan to join her biological father after spending the first months of her life in legal limbo.
Japan Offers a Lifeline to Failing Businesses
Tokyo announces a $51 billion economic stimulus package as bankruptcy rates soar
Will the Fed's Rate Cut Help? The Japan Lesson
The Fed's latest rate cut may do little to help the economy. Just ask the Bank of Japan
Dollar rallies against the yen
The dollar bounced back against the yen Tuesday after global stock markets took a rest from their recent steep declines.
Controversial legal ivory sale raises $1.2M
The first officially sanctioned ivory auction in nearly a decade happened Tuesday in Namibia, with opinion split on whether the sale will help or hurt efforts to stop elephant poaching.
Strong yen is everybody's problem
What's the big major economic worry today? Japan, come on down! You're the next contestant on The Price Isn't Right!
Global stocks suffer again
Stock markets around the world took another heavy beating Monday, with shares in Japan falling to their lowest level in 26 years, as fears of a global recession continued to sweep markets.
Japan Moves to Protect its Financial System
Resurrection of an expired law would allow the government to recapitalize smaller banks
Tainted Chinese beans pulled in Japan
Japanese health officials warned residents on Wednesday not to eat a variety of frozen green beans imported from China that are contaminated with an extremely high concentration of pesticides.
Bank of Japan: Short-term loans
Japan's central bank said Tuesday it had expanded the scope of its agreement with the U.S. Federal Reserve, allowing it to provide more cash to financial institutions to keep money markets operating smoothly.
Lessons From Asia's Last Meltdown: Act Fast
Lessons from Japan's "Lost Decade" and the Asian Financial Crisis may provide clues for easing the credit crunch
Do cartoon aliens show the way to riches from augmented reality?
In a new video game for cell phones set to launch in Japan, the point is simple: Roaming players must point their handsets in the right direction to score.
Three physicists share Nobel prize
An American physicist and two physicists from Japan will share this year's Nobel Prize in Physics, the Nobel Foundation announced Tuesday.
Japan to Dispense Billions in Foreign Aid
Once the world's biggest donor nation, Japan is stepping up efforts to boost its influence in resource-rich developing countries by creating a super agency
Aso confirmed as Japan's new PM
Taro Aso, an outspoken politician and a former foreign minister, became Japan's new prime minister Wednesday after the powerful lower house of parliament overruled the upper house's choice for a leader.
Clock Starts Running for Japan's Aso
Just one day into his leadership, Japan's new prime minister could be looking at the shortest run as prime minister in Japan's postwar history
Mystery Submarine Spotted Near Japan
Japan was searching Sunday for an unidentified foreign submarine detected in its territorial waters earlier in the day
Japan: One man dead, six hurt after stabbing spree
One person was killed and six others injured Saturday when a man went on a stabbing rampage in central Japan -- the latest in a series of such sprees in the country in the last few months.
Japan may withdraw military from Iraq
Japan may withdraw the last of its military mission in Iraq by the end of the year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Thursday.
Japan's Inflation Soars
Surging inflation in July dented Japanese consumer spending, lending support for the government's planned economic stimulus package, reportedly worth 1.8 trillion yen ($16.5 billion) and expected to be unveiled later Friday
61-Year-Old Woman Gives Birth in Japan
A 61-year-old Japanese woman gave birth to her own grandchild, using an egg donated by her daughter, a clinic said Thursday
Sumo wrestler suspended after drug arrest
For the first time that sumo wrestling's governing body can recall, one of its revered athletes has been nabbed for drug possession.
Powerful quake injures 102 in Japan
A strong earthquake injured 102 people and destroyed 31 buildings in northern Japan on Thursday, authorities said.
Japan's fishermen: 'We're dying'
Two hundred thousand boats sat idle in Japan, as fishermen across the nation took to the streets on Tuesday to protest skyrocketing fuel prices.
China and Japan: A Green Connection
China wants clean technology; Japan has it to sell. As G-8 begins, two traditional rivals have reasons to heal old wounds
Dollar continues its slide
The dollar declined Tuesday as stronger-than-expected economic reports from Japan and Germany strengthened overseas currencies, amid further concerns about write-offs in the financial sector in the United States.
Japan Inflation at 10-Year High
Soaring oil and commodity prices hit Japan's economy with a one-two punch in May, thrusting up inflation, driving consumers to tighten their pocketbooks and threatening to derail the country's modestly growing economy
Japan's Booming Sex Niche: Elder Porn
While Japanese sex life sags, the porn industry is healthier than ever -- even for septuagenarian stars
Japan: News & Videos about Japan - CNN.com
Find stories, videos, and photos about Japan from CNN.com.
Japan-U.S. Relations: Let There Be Discord
The U.S.-Japanese friendship is fully able to handle occasional disruption.
Korean Olympic Hero Championed Liberty
The story of marathoner Sohn Kee-chung is a source of national pride for athletes like Kim Yu-na, a South Korean favored to win Olympic skating gold in Vancouver.
Obama Says U.S. Seeks to Build Stronger Ties to China
President Obama said the United States would maintain close ties with traditional allies like Japan, but that it is not threatened by a rising China.
Obama, in Japan, Says U.S. Will Study Status of a Marine Base on Okinawa
Japan’s new prime minister, Yukio Hatoyama, campaigned on a pledge to try to get the base off the island, where it has long been unwelcome.
Japan Cheers Emperor
Tens of thousands of well-wishers lined the streets of Tokyo for a parade on the 20th anniversary of the coronation of Emperor Akihito, 75, who urged the Japanese not to forget the lessons of World War II.
Creaky Alliance
Japanese-American relations are in bad shape as the president arrives.
Okinawans Grow Impatient With Dashed Hopes on U.S. Base
The issue of the American air base on Okinawa has taken on heightened significance and is perhaps the most prominent issue President Obama will face during his visit.
Japan Cools to America as It Prepares for Obama Visit
President Obama’s visit to Tokyo on Friday will come at a time when relations with Japan are strained.
Cost Cuts and Incentive Program Help Toyota End a String of Losses
Toyota Motor said it had returned to a profit in the latest quarter as aggressive cost cuts, government incentives and signs of a global recovery buoyed its bottom line.
Matsui Goes Wild, and So Do His Fans in Japan
Reaction in Japan to Hideki Matsui’s World Series M.V.P. performance.
Japan Air Cutting 16 Routes
The ailing Japanese carrier said it would end service on eight domestic and eight international routes, the latest in a series of cost-cutting moves.
Japanese Railways Hope Soothing Lights Will Curb Suicides
The approach, which has not been proven to work, is directed at people on railroad platforms who jump in front of trains.
I.M.F. Raises Growth Forecasts for Asia
The new outlook from the International Monetary Fund reflects the region’s rapid rebound from the downturn in recent months.
In Japan, Homes Built With the Bathtub in Mind
For many Japanese, the most important room in the house is the bathroom.
Yuri Kano Leads Elite Japanese Runners’ Return to New York
Kano runs for an independent club that lets her enter races based on her chances to win rather than those her corporate sponsor deems necessary.
NYT > Japan
DIRECTing the Fight Again....
DIRECTing the Fight Against Vision Impairment in Diabetes - Randomisation Phase of Landmark Programme of CANDESARTAN Cilexetil in Diabetic Retinopathy Completed
KDDI Releases New Line of....
KDDI Releases New Line of 3G Mobile Phones, Including First CDMA 1X WIN Model with Camera
Sony to Separate a Part o....
Sony to Separate a Part of its Business to Establish a Financial Holding Company Subject to the approval of the Financial Services Agency
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)....
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) Earns High Marks from Sustainability Management Rating Institute
ALPS Electric Co., Ltd. A....
ALPS Electric Co., Ltd. Announces the Development of SPED3 Series of Push Switches (Push-Push Type) for Automobiles
Kyocera Announces the Rel....
Kyocera Announces the Release of Three New Models in the Finecam Compact Digital Camera Series
Omron Announces Transfer ....
Omron Announces Transfer of Amusement Components Business to Subsidiary
Fuji Photo Film Announces....
Fuji Photo Film Announces Newly Developed Optical Disc Technology Featuring an Organic Dye Enabling DVD Recording at 1x to 16x Speeds
Japan Corporate News
Japan Corporate News Network
Japan stocks decline as recession dents demand for materials
Japan stocks slumped as prospects for a prolonged recession dimmed the earnings outlook for manufacturers and commodities producers.
Aso’s latest stimulus worth ¥23 trillion
Prime Minister Taro Aso unveiled a ¥23 trillion stimulus package Friday that will allow up to ¥12 trillion in public funds to be injected into financial institutions, far more than the ¥2 trillion initially planned.
Job-reneging firms’ names to be released
Aiming to embarrass companies into better behavior, the labor ministry plans to publish the names of those that withdrew job offers made to graduating students in an attempt to discourage unilateral cancellations, sources said.
Bill to redress uninsured children to be enacted
A bill to redress the issue of children without health insurance is likely to be enacted at the current Diet session as the Liberal Democratic Party and the main opposition Democratic Party of Japan agreed Wednesday to hold talks over the bill jointly proposed by three opposition parties, parliamentary sources said.
Nippon Oil, Nippon Mining to integrate business
Nippon Oil Corp., the largest oil distributor in Japan, and major distributor Nippon Mining Holdings Inc., will integrate their business by establishing a holding company, possibly in the fall of 2009, sources familiar with the plan said Thursday.
Mental test to be conducted on alleged attacker of ex-official, kin
Police decided Wednesday to conduct a mental examination on a man who is believed to have been involved in the murder of a former vice health minister and his wife, and the assault of the wife of another former vice health minister, investigative sources said.
Gov’t to effectively halt spending cut policy to bolster economy
The government is set to effectively halt its spending cut policy in compiling the budget for fiscal 2009 starting in April, in a bid to prioritize stimulus measures over efforts to improve the nation’s fiscal health, government and ruling party sources said Wednesday.
List of 719 cases of harassment at Waseda University leaked from computer
A list of 719 cases of harassment that allegedly occurred at Waseda University in Tokyo has leaked on the Internet, university officials said.
Government panel deems 37% of spending by NPO’s wasteful
A government panel tasked with studying ways to eliminate wasteful use of taxpayers’ money has proposed a 37 percent cut, worth about 350 billion yen, in funding for government-authorized nonprofit organizations in fiscal 2009 compared with the corresponding figure in fiscal 2006.
US policy adviser predicts dollar slipping below 90 yen
Lawrence Lindsey, a former economic policy adviser to U.S. President George W. Bush, told Japanese lawmakers in Tokyo on Wednesday the U.S. dollar could slip below 90 yen, the lawmakers said.
Japan News Review
The Japanese News, in English
Globalization: a culture killer
SEATTLE — A Muslim family sits across from me in a cafe, in a largely Muslim Asian country. An older woman shyly hunches over, desperately trying to avoid eye contact with the giant-screen TV blazing loud music on MTV. The scantily dressed presenter introduces her "top song" for the week. Beyonce, dressed in very little, annoyingly reiterates that she is a "single lady."
The old woman's son is mesmerized by what he sees. He pays no attention to his mother, young wife or even his own son who wreaks havoc in the coffee shop. The man's T-shirt reads: "What the f**k are you looking at?"
Same old perk of the ruling party
The ruling Democratic Party of Japan Thursday rushed a bill through the Lower House Financial Affairs Committee on Thursday to help small and midsize enterprises overcome cash flow problems. The opposition Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito refused to join the vote. Later the Lower House approved the bill in a plenary session.
The vote marked the first time since the DPJ-led administration came into being that the DPJ has railroaded passage of a bill. When it was in the opposition, the DPJ used to criticize the LDP for pushing bills through without due deliberations. Now the DPJ is employing the same tactics.
Breaking the Pyongyang pattern
U.S. President Barack Obama and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak reaffirmed in Seoul on Thursday that they will seek a "definite and comprehensive resolution" to the North Korean nuclear issue. Mr. Obama urged the North to return to the six-party nuclear talks, adding that he will send special representative for North Korea policy Stephen Bosworth to the country on Dec. 8.
In early October, North Korean leader Kim Jong Ill, meeting with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Pyongyang, expressed his country's "readiness" for multilateral talks, including the six-party talks, "depending on the outcome" of bilateral talks with the United States. North Korea withdrew from the six-party talks last April to protest a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning its long-range rocket launch the same month. North Korea then detonated a nuclear device in May.
Spaniard denies being drug smuggler; lay judges hand him 10 years
CHIBA (Kyodo) A Spanish man was sentenced to 10 years and fined ¥5 million in a lay judge trial Friday for smuggling illegal stimulants into Japan in May. He had pleaded innocent.
Orquin Mompo Fernando, 38, was the second defendant to claim innocence in a lay judge trial since the system was introduced in Japan in May. The first lay judge trial was held in August. No one has been acquitted so far, although lay judges have handed down suspended sentences. In two recent high-profile stimulants-use trials, not involving lay judges, the accused received suspended terms.
Economy back in state of deflation
Japan is in a state of deflation for the first time in about three years, the government declared Friday, warning that falling prices and a further worsening of employment conditions may hurt the nascent economic recovery.
"Recent price developments show the Japanese economy is in a mild deflationary phase," the Cabinet Office said in its economic report for November.
Cabinet's shady fund drained by LDP: Hirano
Two days after the Aug. 30 Lower House election ended decades of power by the Liberal Democratic Party, the LDP-led government withdrew ¥250 million from a controversial Cabinet secret fund, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirofumi Hirano said Friday.
The revelation came as the present government led by the Democratic Party of Japan faces pressure to disclose what is dubbed the Cabinet's "kimitsu-hi" (secret fund).
Yamato plans Singapore 'takkyubin'
Yamato Holdings Co. said Friday it will commence a service similar to its domestic "takkyubin" parcel delivery operation in Singapore in January in light of the city state's good business prospects.
Japan's top parcel transport firm unveiled in August a similar service for Shanghai due to start in January, as it aims to expand its business in other parts of Asia, given the poor growth outlook in the domestic market.
Couple's love story started in Africa
Emmanuel Gbevegnon met his wife, Eriko Hidaka, in 1995 in Niger.
Eriko, a native of Yakushima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, was there to help with vaccination activities, using her experience as a nurse. Emmanuel, a native of the city of Cotonou in Benin, a country next to Niger with a population of about 9.3 million, was there on business.
Sony head sees big things for 3-D
Sony Corp. Chairman Howard Stringer forecast 3-D movies, pictures and games will be the electronics maker's next $10 billion business, challenging investors and analysts who say the technology isn't ready to become mainstream.
The maker of Bravia televisions and PlayStation 3 game consoles said Thursday 3-D-related products, excluding content, will generate more than ¥1 trillion in the 12 months ending in March 2013. The Tokyo-based company will begin offering TVs, Blu-ray players and game consoles that adopt the technology starting next fiscal year, it said.
Heian tomb yields tweezers
A makeup kit containing a pair of 17-cm iron scissors and iron tweezers 8.5 cm long has been discovered in the tomb of a woman who lived at the end of the Heian Period (794-1192), archaeologists said recently.
Also found inside the tomb, in Nishiwaki, Hyogo Prefecture, were a clay pot 6 cm in diameter and a 5.7-cm porcelain pot as well as a 9-cm bronze mirror made in China, according to officials of the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Archaeology in Harimacho.
Woman, man probed over six deaths
TOTTORI (Kyodo) A 35-year-old woman with links to six men whose suspicious deaths were recently uncovered in Tottori Prefecture and her 46-year-old male roommate were served fresh warrants and indicted Friday on separate counts of fraud.
The six deceased had been acquainted with or had financial troubles with the woman, who worked in a bar in the city of Tottori, and police are investigating their deaths with a view to building murder cases. Sleeping drugs were detected in autopsies of three of the six.
Murata postpones battery sales
Murata Manufacturing Co. will postpone its plan to start selling lithium-ion batteries by at least a year as it plots a strategy to compete in a market that includes Japanese rivals Panasonic Corp. and GS Yuasa Corp.
"If we want to be competitive, we need time to consider what types of equipment the batteries should be used with," said Tsuneo Murata, president of the electronic parts maker, in an interview on Thursday at the company's Kyoto headquarters. "It may be a year or more before we can start."
Wakata to get prime minister award
Astronaut Koichi Wakata will receive a prime minister's award for his contribution to the completion of Japan's first manned space laboratory at the International Space Station, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirofumi Hirano said Friday.
Wakata stayed 4 1/2 months at the ISS and "carried out an extremely important mission" in completing the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo (Hope) space laboratory, the government's top spokesman said.
Toshiba to cut costs with China JV
Toshiba Corp. said Friday it will set up a joint venture in China in April and transfer its Chinese subsidiary's semiconductor assembly operation to the venture as a cost-cutting measure.
The joint venture to assemble system large-scale integrated circuit chips, or system LSIs, will be created between Toshiba Semiconductor (Wuxi) Co., Toshiba's manufacturing subsidiary, and Nantong Fujitsu Microelectronics Co., both located in Jiangsu Province, Toshiba said.
DBJ, other creditors let JAL off hook
State-owned Development Bank of Japan and other creditors agreed Friday to let struggling Japan Airlines Corp. suspend the repayment of its debts while the carrier is seeking out-of-court restructuring, sources said.
The DBJ and JAL may also sign an agreement possibly Tuesday that would allow the bank to extend a pool of about ¥100 billion in bridge loans to Japan's top airline, which is facing the prospect of running out of cash at the end of this month, the sources said.
Lower House committees pass bills amid opposition no-show
The Democratic Party of Japan-led ruling coalition passed bills and treaties at several House of Representatives committee sessions Friday that were boycotted by two opposition parties.
The bills and treaties included one on compensation for people who suffer side effects from vaccinations for H1N1 and another to revise a law regulating payments and allowances for court judges.
Shinginko posts ¥1.07 billion profit
Shinginko Tokyo reported Friday an unconsolidated net profit of ¥1.07 billion for the April-September period, the first such profit since the Tokyo Metropolitan Government founded the bank in 2005.
The fiscal 2009 first-half profit, compared with a year-earlier net loss of ¥7.02 billion, came as some nonperforming loan-disposal costs for earlier years were booked as profit for the period due to a smaller-than-expected number of borrower bankruptcies.
BOJ keeps rates low, is upbeat
The Bank of Japan held interest rates near zero amid mounting government pressure for it to fight deflation that could stunt the recovery from the country's worst postwar recession.
Gov. Masaaki Shirakawa and his colleagues held the overnight lending rate at 0.1 percent, the central bank said in a statement Friday in Tokyo.
Ozawa looming as 'shadow shogun'
The Democratic Party of Japan's oldest lawmaker recently had a few bitter words for his old friend, DPJ Secretary General Ichiro Ozawa.
Speaking in Fukuoka earlier this month, Kozo Watabe criticized what he considered the monopolization of party authority in Ozawa's hands.
Falling plasterboards injure two
KAGOSHIMA (Kyodo) Two people sustained broken bones Friday when plasterboards fell from the ceiling of a makeshift passageway at a construction site in the JR Kagoshima-Chuo Station building.
Police said a 62-year-old woman sustained multiple broken bones and a 47-year-old woman suffered a fracture in her right arm after 30 plasterboards, weighing about 18 kg each, fell onto the passageway around 9:25 a.m.
China envoy hears Hatoyama fraternal pitch
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi agreed Friday to develop bilateral diplomatic ties in a "spirit of fraternity," in line with the Hatoyama's political philosophy.
Expressing hope that the top leaders of the two nations continue their mutual visits, Hatoyama said he wants to go to China next year for the World Expo 2010 Shanghai, which opens in May.
U.S. serviceman admits to Okinawa hit-and-run
NAHA, Okinawa Pref. (Kyodo) The U.S. Army serviceman suspected of hitting a Japanese man with a car and killing him earlier this month in Okinawa has effectively admitted his involvement in the accident and is willing to apologize to the relatives of the victim, his lawyer said Friday.
The U.S. military is holding the 27-year-old staff sergeant, who works at the Torii Communication Station, a U.S. Army garrison in the village of Yomitan, over the suspected hit-and-run, which happened in the village.
Michelin exec fears Tokyo's star power may ruffle France's feathers
The Epicurean king who oversees the Michelin Guide fears he may be banished from France.
His shocking crime?
The Japan Times: News & Business
The latest news and business stories from The Japan Times
Qantas to cut Japan, Southeast Asian schedules in face of high fuel costs
The Mainichi Daily News has shut down this feed. Please click here to view our new selection of RSS feeds
Japan National News
Japan's No. 1 source of news in English
Qantas to cut Japan, Southeast Asian schedules in face of high fuel costs
The Mainichi Daily News has shut down this feed. Please click here to view our new selection of RSS feeds
Japan Business News
Japan's No. 1 source of business news in English
Qantas to cut Japan, Southeast Asian schedules in face of high fuel costs
The Mainichi Daily News has shut down this feed. Please click here to view our new selection of RSS feeds
Japan Sports News
Japan's No. 1 source of sports news in English
What Do You Like the Most About Japan?
Related Content: What Do You Like the Most About Japan? originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 07:42:02.
If you are planning a trip to Japan, what are your reasons for visiting Japan? What do you want to do? Take the poll, and leave a comment if your choice isn't listed. This is a place for you to express your interest to Japan and share your passion with others. Vote Here.
Tokyo Web Cams
Read More: Tokyo Web Cams originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 07:04:40.
Isn't it fascinating to just sit and watch the streets and the sceneries of Tokyo? Even though you don't have a plan to travel to Tokyo soon, you can enjoy live views of the city online. Check this list of Tokyo web cams now.
Beautiful Autumn in Kyoto
Related Content: Beautiful Autumn in Kyoto originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 07:27:30.
November is the busiest tourist month in Kyoto where temples, shrines, parks, and gardens are filled with fall colors. Special light up events create fantastic night views in many locations during this time. The autumn light up event in Kiyomizu Temple is held through December 6, 2009.
Autumn Leaves in Mount Takao
Related Content: Autumn Leaves in Mount Takao originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 07:41:10.
Beautiful autumn leaves can be viewed in mid to late November in Mount Takao which is a popular hiking destination in Tokyo. It takes less than one hour by train to Takaosan-guchi Station from Shinjuku, and you can also take the cable car or the lift to halfway up the mountain where the Takaosan Yakuoin Temple is located. It's the best spot to see red and orange Japanese maple leaves in Mount Takao, and the leaves peak in late November. If you take a hike to the mountain's peak, Mt. Fuji can be viewed on clear days.
Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka
Related Content: Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 07:18:49.
The annual November Grand Sumo Tournament (Kyushu-basho) is held from November 15 - 29, 2009 at Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Check the ticket information and go to see exciting Japanese sumo matches in Fukuoka where you can also find many tourist attractions.
Free Admission Days - National Museums and Parks
Related Content: Free Admission Days - National Museums and Parks originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Monday, November 9th, 2009 at 07:55:07.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, Japan's government ministries and agencies have been carrying out many events this year besides the public celebration on November 12, 2009 in Tokyo. Let's take advantage of free admission to the following tourist attractions in the coming week.
Shinjuku Gyoen Photo (c) Shizuko Mishima, licensed to About.com
Launch of the Festive Season in Tokyo
Related Content: Launch of the Festive Season in Tokyo originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 08:18:18.
Many popular Christmas trees and holiday lights in Japan are illuminated from mid-November. One of the most popular Christmas trees in Tokyo is the Mikimoto Christmas Tree, which has been lightening up the holiday season in Ginza over 30 years. The 2009 Mikimoto Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is held on November 7, 2009 at 4:15 p.m. Stop by the Mikimoto Pearls main store to see the tree when you go shopping in Ginza.
The Mikimoto Jumbo Christmas Tree (2006) Photo by Shizuko Mishima, licensed to About.com Inc.
The 20th Anniversary of the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan
Related Content: The 20th Anniversary of the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 at 08:53:58.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito's accession to the throne. Since the enthronement ceremony was held on November 12, 1990, the public celebration takes place on November 12, 2009 in Tokyo. Although only ticket-holders are admitted to the stage ceremony starting at 3 p.m., everyone can watch other events, such as festive parades, traditional Japanese music and dance performances, and regional speciality item sales, which are held from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. in the Kokyo Gaien (Tokyo Imperial Palace Outer Garden) area.
View from Tokyo Imperial Palace Inner Grounds Photo (c) Shizuko Mishima, licensed to About.com
Tori-no-ichi in Tokyo
Read More: Tori-no-ichi in Tokyo originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 07:42:46.
Tori-no-ichi are traditional Japanese open-air markets take place on the days of the rooster (tori-no-hi) in November according to the Chinese calendar, which fall on November 12 and 24 in 2009. There are vendors sell colorfully decorated kumade (rake shaped bamboo charms) of different sizes at the markets. People visit tori-no-ichi to pray for good luck and good business and buy charms. Check out the list of popular places for tori-no-ichi in Tokyo.
Holiday in Tokyo
Read More: Holiday in Tokyo originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, October 30th, 2009 at 08:43:47.
A traveler to Japan needs your advice and writes, "I will be on holiday in Tokyo for about 9days and will like to check whether there are any place you would like to recommend apart from the usual tourist attractions.... Somewhere that is not too popular with the tourist which is full of the Japanese favour... " Post Your Suggestions Here
About Japan Travel
Japan Travel
Obama Takes a Bow in Asia
America’s repeated acts of conciliation are gaining nothing in return.
Nations of the East Agree to Unite
Asia made good progress toward creating an Asian trading community at the latest Asian summit.
Japan Wants East Asian Community
Japan’s new Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama is pushing for an East Asian community. This will mark a new phase for Asia.
Russia Reacts to Japanese Elections
Who's Sorry Now?
Appeasers and revisionists seek apologies for past history.
Japan Eager to Boost Ties With China
Japan's Military Looks to the Final Frontier
Japan’s newly released annual defense paper calls for an expanded military with a better reach into space.
World Prepares to Dump the Dollar
American economists think the world can’t afford to let go of the dollar’s reserve currency status. The world is about to teach them differently.
Largest Treasury Bond Caper in History?
Is someone anonymously dumping treasuries, or is it just the work of a bold counterfeiter?
Happy Memorial Day. I Have a Nuclear Bomb.
An update on the “post-American world” courtesy of Kim Jong Il
American Gold? No Thanks!
The Chinese and Japanese are falling out of love with the dollar.
Japan Warming to the Idea of Nukes
Tokyo has a unique perspective on the horror of using nuclear weapons, but that perspective is changing.
Tensions Mount in Asia
An update on North Korea
North Korea Raises Its Ugly Head
Once again, North Korea is clamoring for attention.
Japanese Opposition Wants American Troops Out of Japan
Japan to Make "Clear Shift" Away From U.S.
How much longer is Japan going to be a U.S. ally?
Is Japan Turning Its Back on Its Pacifist Constitution?
Japan moves another step away from post-World War II remorse and a step closer to a world-class military.
America Calls on Japan to Reinterpret Its Pacifist Constitution
But should Japan oblige, it would not strengthen America’s position on the world scene.
Tokyo Trying to Expand Naval Power
Japan moves another step away from post-World War II remorse and a step closer to a world-class military.
How This Recession Could Change the World
The falling price of oil, China’s stimulus plan, and a developing U.S. bond market massacre. Say goodbye to America’s high standard of living.
What the Fannie and Freddie Nationalization Means
The Fannie and Freddie takeover shows the banking crisis is getting worse. What are the implications?
Russia Constructs Its First Oil Pipeline to Asia
Moscow is likely to become a chief energy supplier for both Tokyo and Beijing.
China Becomes Japan's Largest Trade Partner
What do Japan’s strengthening trade relations with Beijing portend about its alliance with America?
America Exhorts Japan to Increase Military Spending
But should Japan oblige, it would not strengthen America’s position on the world scene.
theTrumpet.com: Japan
theTrumpet.com -- Understand your world.