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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.
Flu cases reach alert level, set to top 6 million
The cumulative number of people infected with influenza, in most cases H1N1 swine flu, since early July reached an estimated 5.85 million as of Nov. 1 and is set to top the 6 million mark soon, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases said Friday. An estimated 1.54 million people infected with influenza visited medical facilities nationwide during the latest reporting week of Oct. 26 to Nov. 1. (Japan Times)
Raising Japan's profile
Even before Yukio Hatoyama became Japan's prime minister this summer, his philosophy of yuai, an idea that translates loosely to "fraternal love," had been ridiculed. The conservative Sankei Shimbun newspaper worried about the concept's origins, tracing it back to the liberté, egalité, and fraternité of the French Revolution and comparing Hatoyama to a modern-day Robes-pierre, sans guillotine. The moderate newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun doubted something so lofty could be understood, much less applied, on a global level. And despite Hatoyama's assertion that his brand of fraternity is "combative," rooted as it is in revolution, his political opponents have derided it as impractical and "as mushy as ice cream." (NewsWeek)
Japan, Mekong region to cooperate on environmental protection
The leaders of Japan and five Mekong countries in Southeast Asia agreed Saturday to step up cooperation to protect the environment and tackle climate change over the next 10 years in an initiative to start "a Decade toward the Green Mekong."
Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and his counterparts from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam embraced the program in the Tokyo Declaration, adopted during the first summit meeting involving these countries that began Friday in the Japanese capital. (AP)
Is technology dumbing down Japanese?
The Japanese language is being transformed by blogs, e-mail and keitai shosetsu, or cellphone novels. Americans may fret over the ways digital communications encourage sloppy grammar and spelling, but in Japan these changes are much more wrenching. A vertically written language seems to be becoming increasingly horizontal. Novels are being written and read on little screens. People have gotten so used to typing on computers that they can no longer write characters by hand. And English words continue to infiltrate the language.
Is Japanese getting simpler, easier or just worse? (New York Times)
Japan's high-tech cemeteries
Japan, known for cutting-edge technology as well as ancestor worship, is merging the two with the latest in the funereal: card-activated crypts. (Reuters)
Gunman in Japan 'wounds three, kills himself'
A gunman in Japan who said he was a gangster shot and wounded three people before killing himself Friday in Yokohama near Tokyo, police and news reports said.
The man entered a real estate agency and said he was a member of a crime syndicate before he opened fire around 2:30 pm, wounding the three people, one of them seriously, police said. (AFP)
Scot honored for service to Japan
A Scotsman credited with preventing thousands of Japanese from dying of cholera in the 19th century is being officially honored in his hometown of Edinburgh. Officials have unveiled a stone bench to commemorate the important but little known life of William Burton, who redesigned a large part of Japan's crumbling water supply system in the late 19th century and thereby significantly improved the nation's public health. (Japan Times)
Baseball: Giants one win away after clutch homers
Yoshiyuki Kamei showed everyone why he won this year's new NPB award for dramatic home runs with a shot in the ninth inning of Game 5. Two batters later, Yomiuri Giants captain Shinnosuke Abe did him one better.
Kamei sent the first pitch of the ninth flying into the seats in right field to tie the game and Abe hit a sayonara shot later in the inning to bring the Giants within a victory of the Japan Series title with a dramatic 3-2 win over the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters on Thursday at Tokyo Dome. (Japan Times)
Jobs, animation drive popularity of learning Japanese
Japanese-language study is growing in popularity overseas every year, especially in East Asia, driven by interest in animation and the desire to find work in Japan. According to a 2006 survey by the Japan Foundation, Japanese was being taught in 133 countries and territories throughout the world to an estimated 2.98 million people, an increase of 26.4 percent from three years before. (Japan Times)
Baseball: Matsui and the league that Ruth built
To the delight of fans back home in Tokyo, Hideki Matsui drove in six of the New York Yankees' seven runs in their World Series-winning victory Wednesday and became the first Japanese-born player to win a series Most Valuable Player award. For much of his career, Matsui was a star player for the Tokyo Giants.
Matsui's key role in the series highlights the close ties between American and Japanese baseball. Playing in the Yankees' new stadium, the successor to the "House that Ruth Built," Matsui's performance brought to mind the key role that Babe Ruth played in the development of professional baseball in Japan. (CNN)
Japan pledges $5.5 bln for SEAsia's Mekong region
Japan on Friday pledged 5.5 billion dollars in aid over three years for Southeast Asia's five Mekong River nations, seeking to deepen ties with the region amid growing influence from China.
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, who has pushed the concept of an EU-style Asian community, announced the more than 500 billion yen in loans and grants to his counterparts from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. (AFP)
Mushroom collector in Japan finds woman's head
A Japanese man collecting mushrooms in a mountain area today found the severed head of a young woman, believed to be a college student missing since last month, news reports said.
The man made the grisly find near the 1223-metre peak of Mount Garyu in the north of Hiroshima prefecture, where he was gathering wild mushrooms. (The Australian)
Death sentences upheld for two Japan doomsday cultists
A Japanese court rejected Friday the final appeals of two senior members of the doomsday cult behind the 1995 deadly sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway, effectively putting them on death row.
The Supreme Court's presiding judge Yukio Takeuchi rejected pleas by Toru Toyoda, 41, and Kenichi Hirose, 45, upholding previous verdicts by two lower courts that handed both the death sentence, Jiji Press reported. (mysinchew.com)
Sakurajima volcano picking up activity
The Sakurajima volcano in southwestern Japan has had 400 explosive eruptions so far this year, the most in 24 years, a local observatory said Friday, alerting people to a further pickup in the activity of the mountain.
The Kagoshima Observatory said the number of minor explosive eruptions reached the threshold Thursday night and an expert says the recent Sakurajima activity is similar to that observed just ahead of a major eruption that occurred in 1946. (AP)
Suspect in murder of British woman had face-lift in Nagoya
A fugitive suspect in the 2007 murder of a British woman had cosmetic surgery at a clinic in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture last month, investigative sources said Wednesday.
The Oct. 24 surgery is the first solid information in the ongoing hunt for Tatsuya Ichihashi, 30, who is wanted in connection with the murder of Lindsay Hawker, 22, a language teacher whose body was found at his apartment in Ichikawa, Chiba Prefecture, since March 2007. (AP)
Baseball: Nippon Ham gets to Giants' Takahashi early, evens series 2-2
In a knock-down, drag-out struggle, the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters pounded the body for a technical knockout.
Eiichi Koyano had three hits, including a two-run double, and four RBIs, and cleanup man Shinji Takahashi went 3-for-5 with a home run, three RBIs and three runs scored as Nippon Ham outlasted the Yomiuri Giants 8-4 in Japan Series Game 4 on Wednesday before 45,133 at Tokyo Dome. (Yomiuri)
In Tokyo, nothing is too good for your pet
Whether you're looking for a birthday cake for your beagle, or oxygen therapy for your tabby, you can find countless ways to pamper your pet in Tokyo. Japan has become a nation of animal lovers. According to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association of Japan, the number of domestic cats and dogs in the country now stands at 26.8 million, up from 17.8 million 10 years ago. Many cafes and shops are now animal-friendly and there are several fun places for owners to take their furry friends out for a day on the town. (Japan Times)
Brad Pitt looking for new motorbike in Japan
Countless reports swarmed the cyberspace late last month claiming that Pitt was hit by a paparazzo while riding his motorcycle in Hollywood, California. Fortunately, the heartthrob of millions was not hurt, thanks to the helmet he was wearing at the time of the accident occurred on Oct. 24. The big bike fan Pitt, who is currently in Japan promoting his latest movie, "Inglourious Basterds," is now on the hunt for a new hog to replace his damaged one. (themoneytimes.com)
16-yr-old boy in grave condition after being hit by arrow between eyes
A 16-year-old boy practicing archery at a public hall in Tokyo's Meguro Ward was struck between the eyebrows Wednesday by an arrow shot by a 17-year-old boy from the same high school archery club, and is in serious condition, police said.
The accident occurred around 4:45 p.m. when the two students at the private high school were practicing archery alone. The student who shot the 70-centimeter carbon arrow made an emergency call for an ambulance. (AP)
Japanese held for drug smuggling in Malaysia claims she was duped
A Japanese woman facing the death sentence for trafficking drugs into Malaysia claims she was duped by a Middle Eastern man into delivering what she thought were "books" to the country, an investigating officer said Wednesday.
Mariko Takeuchi, a 35-year-old former nurse, was arrested last Friday at Kuala Lumpur International Airport upon arrival from Dubai. While scanning through three pieces of her luggage, Customs Department officers found 4.7 kilograms of methylamphetamine hidden under the lining of her bag. (AP)
Japan's economy was established upon human trafficking
Have you ever wonder why Japanese women appear to accept the sexism rampant in their own society? Have ever wonder why Japanese men are never blamed for enjokyosai or pedophilia in Japan? It is because sex trafficking is nothing but a mundane part of their own cultural identities, which they came to accept it as fact of life. What is more outrageous is that such culture of sex trafficking in Japan was originated and is persistently encouraged by the Japanese government today. (examiner.com)
Man held for attempted attack on Japanese embassy
A man has been arrested for allegedly planning to torch the Japanese embassy in the South Korean capital and to take staff hostage in protest at historical disputes, police said Thursday.
The man identified only as Jang allegedly tried to break into the embassy Wednesday evening but was caught by police stationed nearby. (inquirer.net)
Matsui becomes first Japanese-born Series MVP
Hideki Matsui has the most curious habit at the plate. He never takes a practice swing once he steps into the batter's box.
He saves all those meaty cuts for when he needs them.
Matsui did all sorts of damage Wednesday night, setting a record with six RBIs in a World Series clincher and leading the New York Yankees over the Philadelphia Phillies 7-3 Wednesday night.
His performance won Game 6 -- and clinched the MVP trophy.
(Sports Illustrated)
NEC offers eyewear translator
Most eyewear improves vision or cuts through solar glare, but a new gadget from Japan may soon sharpen linguistic skills and cut down language barriers instead, inventors said Thursday.
High-tech company NEC has come up with a device that it says will allow users to communicate with people of different languages.
Shaped like a pair of eye-glasses, but without the lenses, the computer-assisted Tele Scouter would use an imaging device to project almost real-time translations directly onto the user's retina. (AFP)
Asia's best coffee - Japan
Coffee (pronounced koh-hii in Japanese) is now one of Japan's favorite beverages. But it took a few centuries to catch on, and it's highly likely that before the modernization of the country during the Meiji Restoration (1868-1912), Japan's tea drinkers were simply not ready for coffee. That changed with Westernization, and Japan's wholesale embrace of such things as meat eating, Western philosophies of aesthetics, jazz, short skirts, beer halls and coffee. Canned coffee -- the single-serving variety sold hot or cold, mostly from the country's five-million-odd vending machines -- is another aspect of the culture that, while not exclusive to Japan, is conspicuously Japanese. (Wall Street Journal)
News On Japan
All the latest news on Japan
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 executes serial killer
A serial killer convicted in the deaths of four girls was among three men executed in Japan on Tuesday.
Quake Toll in Northern Japan Rises
The death toll from a magnitude 7.2-earthquake in northern Japan rose to at least nine Sunday, with more than 200 injured
Japan rescuers search for quake missing
Rescue workers dug out three bodies from under mud and rock Sunday, bringing the death toll from Japan's 7.2 magnitude earthquake to nine.
Powerful earthquake strikes Japan
Six people were killed and at least 144 hurt Saturday morning when a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck northeastern Japan, Japanese officials said.
Japan: News & Videos about Japan - CNN.com
Find stories, videos, and photos about Japan from CNN.com.
Matsui Goes Wild, and So Do His Fans in Japan
Reaction in Japan to Hideki Matsui’s World Series M.V.P. performance.
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.
Japanese Destroyer Hits South Korean Ship
A Japanese navy destroyer collided with a South Korean freighter in the waters off southern Japan, setting off fires on both boats and injuring three crew members.
Japanese-Style Horror, on Screen and Stage
Refracting a Japanese ghost story through an American experimental sensibility, Kenneth Collins has created a nightmarish pop aesthetic that deserves your attention.
Hatoyama Outlines Goals to Parliament
Japan's new prime minister declared that reviving the economy was a top priority and stressed seeking "close and equal" ties with the United States.
Asian Leaders Focus on Freer Trade
Leaders expressed cautious optimism about increasing trade within the region, lowering tariffs and plans for a wider Asian free-trade zone.
Wise Warriors, Artfully Attired
This sumptuous, revelatory and long-awaited exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime event for children, war buffs and connoisseurs of all ages.
Film on the Dolphin Hunt Stirs Outrage in Japan
On Wednesday, Japanese moviegoers got their first glimpse of “The Cove,” an American documentary that used hidden cameras to film dolphin hunts off the seaside town of Taiji.
At Tokyo Auto Show, Hybrids and Electrics Dominate
Hybrids and fully electric cars will be the stars of the show, which is focusing on green technology.
Rising Debt a Threat to Japanese Economy
The question of how much debt a country can carry looms large in the U.S., but even larger in Japan.
Japan Rethinks a Dam, and a Town Protests
Bridge supports cross a reservoir behind the Yamba Dam, a project the new Japanese government has suspended.
Asia’s Biggest Economies Promise Greater Cooperation
Leaders from China, Japan and South Korea said over the weekend that they would explore the idea of a free trade pact, inching closer toward deeper regional integration.
NYT > Japan
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KDDI Releases New Line of 3G Mobile Phones, Including First CDMA 1X WIN Model with Camera
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Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) Earns High Marks from Sustainability Management Rating Institute
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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
Debate Afghan war goals, then select strategy
PHILADELPHIA — The current debate in the United States over the war effort in Afghanistan contains no shortage of opinions on the best strategy for defeating the Taliban, but far too little discussion regarding the actual objectives of the war. The famous Prussian strategist Carl von Clausewitz wrote about war that "the political objective is the goal, war is the means of reaching it, and means can never be considered in isolation of their purpose." But in the current debate on Afghanistan we risk doing just that — arguing about strategy without a clear understanding of our goals.
So what are the objectives in Afghanistan? What is the purpose for which we are fighting this war? The problem is that they have shifted over time. At the outset, the coalition invasion of Afghanistan was an act of collective self-defense in response to the 9/11 attacks. The objective was to prevent further attack by disrupting and destroying al-Qaida forces operating out of Afghanistan, and overthrowing the Taliban regime that supported them.
Tough pension task for DPJ
When the Democratic Party of Japan was in the opposition, party member Mr. Akira Nagatsuma was known for research into the problem of hard-to- identify pension-premium payment records and his sharp questions on the matter in the Diet. Now as health, labor and welfare minister, he finds himself struggling to solve the problem.
In 2007 it was discovered that there were 50.95 million cases in which a person's pension premium payment history could not be confirmed. The Social Insurance Agency said that as of September, 15.81 million of those cases remained unsolved. Now it appears the problems involve 850 million pension-related records.
Mr. Hatoyama fuzzy on funds
As expected, the opposition Liberal Democratic Party has launched a salvo of criticism in the Lower House's Budget Committee against Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama over a political funds scandal. Unfortunately for Mr. Hatoyama, his explanations have not been very convincing.
Mr. Hatoyama admitted that some of his own money — under the control of Rokko Shokai, a company that manages assets of the Hatoyama family — had been diverted to his political funds management body. He said he had signed documents allowing the former accountant of the body to divert the money, because the accountant said the body lacked funds for political activities.
Head found on mountain in Hiroshima
MATSUE, Shimane Pref. (Kyodo) A young woman's severed head was found Friday on a mountain in Hiroshima Prefecture and police are investigating to determine if the victim is a female college student who vanished late last month in neighboring Shimane.
Investigators said the facial features "highly resemble" those of Miyako Hiraoka, 19, a freshman at the University of Shimane, who disappeared on the night of Oct. 26.
JR East resorts to blue LEDs to stem suicides
Alarmed by a rise in people jumping to their deaths in front of trains, some railways are installing special blue lights above station platforms in the hope they will have a soothing effect and reduce suicides.
As of November, East Japan Railway Co. has put blue light-emitting diode lights in all 29 stations on the Yamanote Line, the central loop in Tokyo used by 8 million passengers each day.
Sakurajima eruptions pass 400
KAGOSHIMA — The volcano island Sakurajima has had about 400 explosive eruptions so far this year, the most in 24 years, a local observatory said Friday, warning that activity might pick up.
The minor explosive eruptions reached the 400 threshold Thursday night, according to the Kagoshima Observatory in Kagoshima Prefecture. One expert said the recent activity is similar to what happened just before a major eruption in 1946.
Prius remains top seller in Japan
Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius gas-electric hybrid car was Japan's best-selling vehicle in October with sales of 26,918 units, staying in the top slot for the fifth straight month, according to industry data released Friday.
Sales of the Prius were robust due to government tax rebates and subsidies for the purchase of fuel-efficient vehicles, industry analysts say.
70% of families have digital TV receiver
The government said Friday it estimates 69.5 percent of Japanese families had acquired TVs or tuners to receive terrestrial digital broadcasting signals as of the end of September, up 8.8 points from March.
The increase came as the government offered Eco-points for purchasing new TVs designed to receive such signals as well as new air conditioners and refrigerators, under an economic stimulus package that allows consumers to convert the points into gift coupons and the like.
Three weather ships to be retired
The Meteorological Agency plans to retire three of its five ships monitoring weather in coastal waters next March due to technological advances in weather observation systems, agency sources said Friday.
In a major change in the role of Japanese weather vessels, the agency also intends to put more focus on climate change observation in the Northwestern Pacific by using the remaining two 1,400-ton-class ships.
DPJ exec eyes suffrage bill this term
The Democratic Party of Japan may submit a bill during the current extraordinary Diet session that would grant permanent foreign residents the right to vote in local-level elections, DPJ Diet affairs chief Kenji Yamaoka told reporters Friday, noting the session may also have to be extended.
His comments come a day after Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama indicated submitting such a bill anytime soon would be difficult, indicating next year would be the earliest proposed legislation would appear.
Police suspect two more Tottori deaths linked to woman
TOTTORI (Kyodo) Two more men who died under mysterious circumstances in Tottori Prefecture could be linked to a woman who is already under suspicion over the deaths of three other men, investigative sources said Friday.
One of the two men was run over by a train a few years ago, while the other drowned two years ago in the Sea of Japan along the Tottori coast, the sources said. The identities of the men have not been disclosed.
APEC to ask Japan for proposals on regional FTA
SINGAPORE (Kyodo) Leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum will give Japan, the next APEC chair, the task of identifying ways for the 21-member grouping to create a free-trade bloc, according to a statement they are expected to issue at their Nov. 14-15 summit in Singapore.
The draft statement said APEC is to come out with the proposals by the end of next year, thus effectively assigning Japan, which holds the APEC chairmanship next year, the task of overseeing that embryonic process of developing a giant free-trade area encompassing a region that already accounts for nearly half the world's trade.
Sumitomo Trust, Chuo Mitsui agree to merge
Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co. and Chuo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. agreed to merge to create Japan's fifth-largest bank as they seek to boost profit and brace for tougher capital requirements.
The lenders plan to set up a listed holding company in April 2011, under which Osaka-based Sumitomo Trust and Tokyo-based Chuo Mitsui will place their operations, they said in a statement Friday. They haven't determined a merger ratio.
JAL must stay aloft until January: turnaround chief
The head of a government-backed corporate turnaround body that will oversee the reconstruction of struggling Japan Airlines Corp. said Thursday that a rescue package is likely to be compiled in January or thereafter.
Hiroshige Nishizawa, president of Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corp. of Japan, said in an interview that deciding on the rescue plan by the end of the year "will be impossible."
Hepatitis bill likely to win passage
A bill on hepatitis drafted by the ruling Democratic Party of Japan is expected to be passed during the current Diet session, DPJ lawmakers said Thursday.
The bill says the government was responsible for the spread of hepatitis, and it is its duty to establish systems of research and treatment of the disease.
Target high-end tourists: hotels head
Wooing the high-end tourist market, especially travelers from China, South Korea and Taiwan, is key to achieving the government's goal of attracting 20 million foreign visitors annually by 2016, the head of Japan's hotel association said Friday.
Yutaka Nakamura, chairman of the Japan Hotel Association, said Japan should host more international meetings, conventions and exhibitions. Another area to improve is customer satisfaction, such as by installing satellite broadcasting at hotels.
Key index up for sixth month straight
The broadest indicator of economic health rose for a sixth month in September as government measures at home and abroad spurred a recovery in exports and production.
The coincident index, a composite of 11 indicators, including factory output and retail sales, climbed to 92.5 from 91.2, the Cabinet Office said Friday, matching the median estimate of 10 economists surveyed by Bloomberg.
Flu cases reach alert level, set to top 6 million
The cumulative number of people infected with influenza, in most cases H1N1 swine flu, since early July reached an estimated 5.85 million as of Nov. 1 and is set to top the 6 million mark soon, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases said Friday.
An estimated 1.54 million people infected with influenza visited medical facilities nationwide during the latest reporting week of Oct. 26 to Nov. 1, up from the 1.14 million in the preceding week through Oct. 25, the state-run institute said in a weekly report.
Gunman wounds three, kills self: police
YOKOHAMA (Kyodo) A gunman who holed up in a building Friday afternoon in Yokohama after shooting and seriously wounding three men in a suspected dispute over a loan repayment apparently committed suicide, according to police.
The gunman, who was identified by police as 62-year-old mobster Kenji Hayashi, had holed up in the building in the Yoshinocho district of Minami Ward after the shootings, which occurred shortly after 2:30 p.m. He apparently shot himself, the police said. No hostages were taken.
Nut left in man's heart didn't kill him: doctors
UTSUNOMIYA, Tochigi Pref. (Kyodo) Ashikaga Red Cross Hospital in Tochigi Prefecture said Friday that doctors accidentally left a metal nut inside the heart of a patient who underwent surgery last month, but denied any linkage to the man's death soon after the operation.
"A nut was left by our mistake, but there is no causal linkage to the death," a hospital official claimed.
Speaking out about domestic violence
Just a year into her marriage, Emi Yoshida realized she might not survive it. Her violent, drug-addict husband had tried to strangle her, then beat her unconscious outside their Tokyo home. When she came to, he was threatening her with a knife.
Police offered no protection for her or her children. Instead of whisking her away to a battered wives' center, they tried to talk her into staying with her violent spouse, saying he "didn't mean" to inflict harm. "They said 'It's best the two of you talk it over,' " she recalled.
U.S. envoy vows to help resolve North's abductions
WASHINGTON (Kyodo) The nominee for U.S. special envoy for North Korea human rights issues pledged Thursday to "actively" assist Japan's efforts to resolve the issue of Pyongyang's kidnappings of Japanese decades ago.
"The United States continues to be concerned about Japan's abducted citizens," as well as South Korean prisoners of war and abductees, Robert King said in prepared remarks during his confirmation hearing.
NEC share deals to raise ¥134 billion
NEC Corp. said Friday it will raise up to ¥134 billion by the end of this month through domestic and overseas new share offerings to shore up its financial base and invest in businesses including cloud computing and lithium-ion batteries for green cars.
It is the first time since 2003 that NEC will conduct a public stock offering. The company said its offer price will be decided between Nov. 18 and 20.
Clean electricity scheme to expand
The government launched a working group Friday to study the expansion of its program for utilities to purchase electricity produced using clean and renewable sources of energy.
The program, which started Nov. 1, enables power companies to buy electricity produced at such places as homes, schools and hospitals at higher rates than before.
Dongguan official invites direct investment
A vice mayor of the Chinese industrial city of Dongguan urged Japanese manufacturers Friday to expand on its turf and exploit its domestic market to help the city recover from the global economic crisis and fall in exports.
"We are looking for more Japanese manufacturers to build R&D (research and development) centers in our city and create domestic brands, securing distribution routes," Jiang Ling, vice mayor of Dongguan in Guangzhou Province, said at a news conference in a hotel in Minato Ward, Tokyo.
No bonus as carrier may go broke this month; bridge loans urged
Japan Airlines Corp. said Friday it will not pay winter bonuses, and the government asked the carrier's main creditor banks to provide bridge loans to keep the struggling airline afloat, sources said.
President Haruka Nishimatsu notified JAL's unions of the plan to skip winter bonus payments, the first move of its kind since Japan's top airline was fully privatized in 1987.
Kajima used cheap gravel at Haneda
Kajima Corp., one of Japan's five largest general contractors, is suspected of using low-priced gravel in the construction of a new runway at Tokyo's Haneda airport and making unfair profits, land ministry officials said Friday.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism plans to soon file a complaint with police against Kajima on suspicion of fraud, the officials said. The ministry believes Kajima unfairly gained several million yen in unfair profits — the difference between the contract price and the actual cost.
Japanese URLs no big deal
Being able to use kanji, hiragana and katakana for Web site addresses would not greatly enhance convenience for Japanese because many are familiar with English and search engines such as Yahoo and Google already enable searches in Japanese, Internet industry experts said.
In response to strong demand from China, Arabic nations and other countries that do not use the Latin alphabet, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers decided Oct. 30 to allow the use of non-Latin alphabet characters in domain names.
Supreme Court upholds gallows for Aum pair in nerve gas attack
The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the death sentences for two Aum Shinrikyo cultists convicted for their role in the 1995 sarin nerve gas attack on the Tokyo subway system that killed 12 people and left thousands injured.
The top court's Second Petty Bench turned down appeals from Toru Toyoda, 41, and Kenichi Hirose, 45, against death sentences upheld in 2004 by the Tokyo High Court.
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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, and the national 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
Hakone Federal Lord's Procession
Related Content: Hakone Federal Lord's Procession originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 at 08:17:43.
Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu (Hakone Federal Lord's Procession) is held on November 3 in Hakone Yumoto Onsen, Kanagawa prefecture. It's a parade of about 170 people wearing historical costumes from the Edo period. The procession leaves Sounji Temple at ten in the morning and arrives at Yumoto Fujiya Hotel in the afternoon. Hakone is a popular onsen town with easy access from Tokyo. Take a day trip to see the procession and visit onsen for day use.
Special Opening of Kyoto Imperial Palace
Read More: Special Opening of Kyoto Imperial Palace originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at 08:51:48.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is open to the public from November 1-11, 2009 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of His Majesty the Emperor's accession to the throne. Visitors don't need to obtain advance permission during this time and can see several buildings which are not normally open to the public. If you are visiting Kyoto, go into the palace from the Gishumon gate between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Tokyo Motor Show 2009
Read More:
Tokyo Motor Show 2009 originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, October 23rd, 2009 at 01:41:54.
The 41st Tokyo Motor Show is open to the public from October 24 through November 4, 2009 at Makuhari Messe, Chiba. It displays 261 cars and motorcycles, and 39 of them make their world premieres. Visitors can participate in the test ride programs for passenger cars, motorcycles, and electricity-assisted bicycles. About one million people are expected to visit the show during the 12 days.
Halloween Around the World
Related Content:
Halloween Around the World originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 at 04:10:44.
Although Halloween wasn't celebrated in Japan until recent years, it's becoming more popular year after year. Many stores sell colorful Halloween decorations, costumes, and sweets, and Halloween costume parties and trick-or-treat events are seen in many Japanese cities. Do you ever wonder how Halloween is celebrated in different countries? Take a look at this list of Halloween festivities around the world, compiled by About.com's Guide to Hotels and Resorts.
Kyoto Jidai Matsuri - Festival of the Ages
Read More: Kyoto Jidai Matsuri - Festival of the Ages originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Monday, October 19th, 2009 at 07:49:17.
Jidai Matsuri at Heian Jingu Shrine is known as one of the three greatest festivals in Kyoto alongside Gion Matsuri and Aoi Matsuri. It's held on October 22nd every year. The main attraction of this festival is a procession of about 2,000 people which represents seven ages in Japanese history. It's early to see peak fall foliage in Kyoto, but Jidai Matsuri is worth a visit.
Tokyo International Film Festival 2009
Related Content: Tokyo International Film Festival 2009 originally appeared on About.com Japan Travel on Friday, October 16th, 2009 at 07:44:44.
The 22nd Annual Tokyo International Film Festival runs from October 17-25, 2009 at the Roppongi Hills and other facilities in Tokyo. The film festival screens about 270 films from a variety of genres and countries during the nine days. The venues for the screening are TOHO CINEMAS Roppongi Hills and Cinemart Roppongi. If you are interested in visiting the festival, Walk-up tickets are available at the box office.
About Japan Travel
Japan Travel
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.
Can Australia Defend Itself?
Is change coming in defense and security cooperation between Washington and Canberra?
theTrumpet.com: Japan
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