Japan is busily laying the groundwork for a state visit by Xi Jinping, in what has now become a roughly once-in-a-decade occurrence. The last visit was derailed by COVID-19. (East Asia Forum)

Sukiya, one of Japan's leading beef bowl restaurant chains, announced it will temporarily close nearly all of its stores after an insect was found in a food item served at one of its outlets.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

Join Shizuka expert guide Kaku-san for a unique tour combining tea and mixology. This in-depth tour explores some of the best tea-based food and drink (known as “chawari”) spots in Gakugeidaigaku and increasingly trendy chawari culture in Japan.

Japan’s beloved seafood is now in crisis. Compared to five years ago, catches of Pacific saury have dropped by 80%, Japanese flying squid by 55.5%, mackerel by 50%, and yellowtail by 13%.

The Imperial Household Agency announced that Prince Hisahito, the eldest son of the Akishino family, who will begin his studies at the University of Tsukuba this spring, will have a private apartment prepared near the university for potential solo living.

Foreign tourists in Japan are showering praise on local tourist information centers for their warm and detailed support—sometimes even considered 'overly helpful.' These centers assist visitors with everything from translation hiccups and complex train transfers to finding hidden scenic spots, cultural experiences, and rental services.

Fuji Television announced a sweeping overhaul of its management structure on March 27th, including the retirement of longtime executive Hisashi Hieda, who served on the board for 41 years.

In a special NewsPicks program, experts from Laboro.AI, including CEO Tetsuo Shiibashi and senior solution designer Tatsuru Shiratori, explored how artificial intelligence can go beyond efficiency to generate real business value—what they call "value-up AI."

She Taught Me Serendipity is a poignant coming-of-age romance that explores how a chance meeting can change the trajectory of two young lives.

A growing number of women in Japan are choosing men’s-style suits for both comfort and practicality, reflecting a broader shift toward genderless fashion. From school uniforms to police attire, traditional dress codes are evolving as functionality and diversity take center stage in work and daily life.

The Trump administration announced on March 26th that it will impose an additional 25% tariff on imported automobiles and key auto parts. According to the proclamation signed by President Trump, the tariffs are set to take effect on April 3rd and will apply to all imported vehicles, including those from Japan.

Rapidus, a company aiming to domestically produce next-generation semiconductors, plans to begin operating its prototype line for advanced chips in April. The company is accelerating development of 2-nanometer-class semiconductors, expected to be used in artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

A state banquet hosted by the Emperor and Empress was held at the Imperial Palace for the first time in six years, with their daughter Princess Aiko attending for the first time.

Infectious gastroenteritis cases are spreading rapidly across Japan, with the number of patients in March reaching the highest level in the past ten years for this time of year.

The Tokyo District Court on March 25th ordered the dissolution of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, formerly known as the Unification Church, following a request from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

A Japanese magazine has published a short story written by artificial intelligence, with some guidance from a literary author. (NHK)

Weather officials say cherry blossoms have started blooming in Tokyo. The event occurred on the same date as the seasonal average and five days earlier than last year. (NHK)

Once a pioneering force in Japan’s convenience store sector, 7-Eleven is now facing a clear slowdown. Although the company introduced many groundbreaking services over the years—such as hot oden by the register and in-store ATMs—it has failed to produce a major hit in over a decade.

Welcome to Tokyo’s newest attraction: Grand Hammer! This mega complex in Shinbashi has it all, including dining options to cultural activities from across Japan and a relaxing floor with a sauna and massage chairs (both open 24/7), as well as stylish karaoke, a rooftop BBQ, geisha, and... a club? (Japan by Food)

This show explores how Japanese AI is evolving and introduces a guest, Hiroaki Kano, CEO of Yokokawa Digital and a former Microsoft engineer with a Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo.

The Osaka High Court, presided over by Judge Kumiko Honda, ruled on March 25th that provisions in Japan’s Civil Code and Family Register Act that do not recognize same-sex marriage are unconstitutional, marking the fifth such ruling by a high court in the country.

Starbucks is replacing its paper straws with biomass plastic straws, beginning a nationwide rollout on March 24th.

Weather officials in Japan say yellow sand from China's desert regions has reached the Japanese archipelago. (NHK)

The foreign ministers of Japan, China and South Korea have agreed to promote future-oriented cooperation in tackling common issues, and accelerate arrangements to hold a trilateral summit in Japan as early as possible. (NHK)