Society

Chinese bicycle-sharing startup Mobike expands into Japan

Jun 22 (Reuters) - Chinese bicycle-sharing startup Mobike has set up a subsidiary in Fukuoka city in southern Japan and plans to begin service later this year, it said on Thursday.

The move into one of Japan's largest cities marks the latest overseas venture for the firm, which has already launched services in Singapore and the UK. The company has operations in around 100 Chinese cities and has raised over $900 million since October.

"The company is committed to providing smart bike-share services in collaboration with local governments across Japan," the company said in a statement, but did not provide details on its investment.

Mobike, whose backers include Tencent and Sequoia, has 100 million users and supports roughly 25 million rides a day. Its top competitor, ofo, raised $450 million in May from a range of investors including Chinese ride-sharing service Didi Chuxing.

Toyota Advances Hydrogen Tech With Hybrid Engine Development

Hydrogen, anticipated as the next-generation automotive fuel, is seeing accelerated efforts for its real-world implementation. Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled its first hybrid vehicle that combines a hydrogen-powered engine and an electric motor, announcing plans to conduct on-road tests starting next spring.

Hyogo Governor Secures Re-Election

Former Hyogo Governor Motohiko Saito has secured re-election following the gubernatorial election triggered by his resignation.

Teachers in Japan Demand Better Pay and Conditions

Education groups in Japan representing 23 organizations issued an urgent statement criticizing a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to gradually raise the 'teaching adjustment allowance' to 10% as part of work reform measures. The proposal was deemed 'unrealistic,' sparking opposition from educators.

Ferrari Auctioned for Over 170 Million Yen, Sets New Record

A Ferrari seized from a tax delinquent was auctioned by the Tokyo Regional Taxation Bureau, fetching over 170 million yen, the highest bid ever recorded for such an auction.

Zao’s Snow Monsters Face Extinction

Zao’s iconic snow monsters, the frost-covered trees known as 'juhyo,' face an existential threat. These towering, snow-laden trees have long been a winter highlight in the region, famously resembling monstrous figures covered in snow. However, their survival is now under severe threat.

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Japan's Imperial Family members bid farewell to late Princess Mikasa

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A Day in TOKYO in 1975 | 昭和東京

An hour long documentary looking at the life of the Sugiura family, fish merchants and caterers living in Tokyo. Producer, director, John Nathan Explores the professional and personal lives of a Japanese family, Takes a look at the everyday life of a Japanese family living in Tokyo. (TRNGL)

More Elderly Living Alone in Japan

The number of single-person households in Japan is expected to surpass 40% by 2050, according to recent projections.

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