Society

Smoking banned in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park

Apr 02 (NHK) - Hiroshima has completely banned smoking in the city's Peace Memorial Park, which is visited by tourists from all over the world.

A revised ordinance that completely bans smoking in the park came into force on Sunday.

Ashtrays in 4 former smoking areas were covered, and cones were set up around them to make it clear that they are now off-limits.

Posters explaining the new rule were also put up.

Violators will be fined 1,000 yen, or about 10 dollars.

A smoker in his 60s says, it cannot be helped that smoking is being banned in a growing number of public places. He says he just wants to find a place where he can smoke.

A man in his 50s who does not smoke says he supports a complete ban on smoking, as people of all ages visit the park, and because there are now more people who do not smoke.

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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Monkey Caretaker Accused of Stealing Feed at Osaka Zoo

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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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