Cedar pollen dispersal in Tokyo began on January 8th, marking the earliest start since monitoring began in 1985, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

A Japan Airlines (JAL) international flight faced a major delay after one of its pilots was found to have consumed alcohol exceeding the allowable limits the night before departure. Investigations by FNN have revealed conflicting accounts between JAL and the pilot involved regarding the decision to proceed with the flight.

A global language proficiency study ranked Japan 92nd out of 116 countries and regions, raising concerns about whether Japan needs to improve its English communication skills, especially as it continues to draw international attention.

Last month, Chef Kei Kobayashi, the first Asian to earn three Michelin stars in Paris, supervised dishes for the film "Grand Maison Paris." His restaurant in Paris, as well as five branded establishments in Japan, was featured in a special interview. Kobayashi proposed 20 to 30 menu items for the movie, with several dishes now being offered in Japan for a limited time, including a 5,500-yen course at his Gotemba restaurant.

Chiba's Urayasu City hosted a '20-Year Celebration' event at Tokyo DisneySea on Monday, marking the transition to adulthood for local residents.

Discover the hidden gems of Nara as I explore the historical charm of Asuka and the natural beauty of Yoshino. From ancient temples to stunning mountain scenery, this journey of where old capital used to be takes you off the beaten path to uncover Japan’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. (Tokyo Kenchan)

Known for its marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, wagyu, or Japanese premium meat, is one of the most luxurious in the world. This means wagyu is typically expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. (Japan by Food)

Taking advantage of his blessed physique and quick attack, Oonosato reached the rank of Ozeki in just nine tournaments from his debut, the fastest time since the Showa era, and in his speech at the Ozeki promotion ceremony he vowed to become "the one and only wrestler." He is aiming to reach the same top rank as his master, Oyakata Nishonoseki (former Yokozuna Kisenosato).

Japan Airlines has unveiled an aircraft featuring a sharkskin-like coating. By reducing air resistance with this special surface texture, the airline expects to cut fuel consumption by approximately 119 tons per aircraft annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 381 tons.

The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming society and becoming an indispensable part of daily life. How should we engage with AI and learn to coexist with it? Author Keiichiro Hirano and philosopher Akiko Suzuki, an emeritus professor at Kyoto University, exchanged views on this pressing issue.

The Ground Self-Defense Force's First Airborne Brigade held its annual "First Parachute Training" exercise at the Narashino Training Ground in Chiba Prefecture, where Defense Minister Nakatanit also took part in the drills.

A leader of a massive scouting group has been arrested on suspicion of introducing women to illegal 'fuzoku' establishments. The group is believed to have earned around 7 billion yen through tactics described as akin to human trafficking.

In an in-depth interview with Kenjiro Kimura, a mathematics genius and professor at Kobe University, a mathematics genius and professor at Kobe University, uses mathematics to explain the principles behind chemical reactions, which have traditionally relied on empirical rules. The interview delved into what the future might hold if his research succeeds and what Kimura aims to achieve.

The nine-day New Year holiday, often hailed as a "miraculous break," has come to an end, and everyday life is gradually resuming. However, for some, this period marked a turning point—deciding to quit their jobs. One resignation service provider reported a record-high number of client requests.

Toyota Motor Corporation announced on the 6th during a press conference in Las Vegas, USA, that it will officially begin full-scale testing of autonomous driving and other technologies at its near-future city, "Woven City," currently under construction in Shizuoka Prefecture, starting this fall.

The Tokyo stock market opened its first trading session of the year with a sharp decline, raising concerns about the state of Japan’s economy in the months ahead. The Nikkei average fell by more than 600 yen at one point compared to the previous year-end, a disappointing start for investors hoping for an optimistic beginning to 2025.

2025 marks the start of the 7th year of Reiwa, the 37th year of Heisei, and even the 100th year of Showa. The new year begins with two major celestial events in January—a striking meteor shower and Mars making a close approach to Earth, remaining visible throughout the night.

In 2025, all members of the postwar baby boomer generation will reach the age of 75 or older, becoming what is categorized as late-stage elderly. The sudden surge in people requiring care has raised concerns over the so-called "2025 Problem," posing a serious challenge to caregiving services.

Naples, Rome, New York, Chicago and… Tokyo? Little do many people know, several Tokyo pizza shops are ranked among the best not only in Asia, but in the world! (Japan by Food)

A 46-year-old man arrested for vandalizing a restroom inside the Imperial Palace during the New Year's public greeting has been sent to prosecutors, with further investigations underway into graffiti found on a nearby manhole.

During the New Year's holidays from January 1st to 3rd, two elderly men in Tokyo lost their lives after choking on mochi, according to the Tokyo Fire Department, which has issued a warning urging caution when consuming the traditional rice cake.

During the first general audience in two years at the Imperial Palace, attended by over 60,000 people, the Imperial Guard arrested a 46-year-old man from Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, on suspicion of defacing a restroom on the palace grounds.

Japanese school teachers are grappling with severe long working hours and staff shortages, leading to what some call a "fixed labor system" that allows overwork without adequate compensation.

Today let's find the timeless beauty of Nara, Japan. From the sacred deer roaming Nara Park to the breathtaking Todai-ji Temple with the Great Buddha, this Nara travel guide takes you through Japan's ancient capital. Learn about what to see and things to do in Nara, must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and foods that will make your trip to Nara even more memorable. (Tokyo Kenchan)

Across the Kanto region, shrines and scenic spots were bustling with visitors welcoming the New Year, whether by watching the first sunrise or making their first shrine visit of the year.