Society

Olympic committee plans wide-ranging spending cuts

May 16 (NHK) - NHK has learned that the organizing committee of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics has begun considering spending cuts in more than 100 areas.

Some estimates suggest that the one-year postponement of the Games to the summer of 2021 could cost an additional several billion dollars.

The items to be examined include the planned around-the-clock catering services for the athletes' village.

The scale of the opening and closing ceremonies, expenses for officials of the International Olympic Committee and sports organizations, the number of spectator seats, and events to be held around the venues are also expected to be considered.

Sources say the period of the Olympic torch relay may also be shortened, but officials will try to ensure the participation of runners who have already been selected.

There are views within the organizing committee that cost-cutting will only be possible for a limited number of areas.

Sources say all these elements will need to be reviewed to gain the understanding of the public and sponsors for any additional expenses.

Student's Homemade Bomb Sparks School Lockdown in Sapporo

A suspicious object feared to be explosive was discovered at a high school in Sapporo on the afternoon of November 22nd, causing temporary chaos. The object was found to have been brought to the school by one of its students.

China to resume visa-exemptions for short-term Japanese travelers

China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

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Man With Snake Tattoo Accused of Theft and Headbutting Store Employee

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Kato Recognized by Guinness for 65 Years of Chess Puzzle Contributions

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Wakayama Shrine Prepares New Year’s Artwork

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Sex industry recruiters in Tokyo arrested

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Human Hand Found Sticking Out From Ground at Cemetery in Nara

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Renowned poet Tanikawa Shuntaro dies at 92

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