Sapporo may bid to host 2030 Winter Olympics

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.

On New Year’s Day 2024, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck Japan's Noto peninsula and claimed nearly 470 lives. One year later, survivors of the devastating quake still live in temporary accommodation in the town of Wajima. (South China Morning Post)

Various traditional events marking the New Year were held across the country. In Bungotakada City, Oita Prefecture, the ‘Horanyenya’ festival, in which boats are rowed to rhythmic chants, took place.

A Shinto ritual wishing for abundant harvests and good fishing throughout the year was held at Hakozaki Shrine in Fukuoka City, one of Japan’s three major Hachiman shrines.

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.

A fire broke out at a temple in Fukushima City, completely destroying its wooden single-story main hall. The incident occurred on January 1st, with authorities receiving a report around 7:20 p.m. about sounds of burning coming from the temple.

Reports of rodent infestation have surged nationwide in recent years, posing increasing challenges for homeowners. The issue, which is particularly evident during the year-end season, has left many families struggling to find effective solutions.

A 29-year-old man and a 15-year-old high school student were arrested for dangerous driving at the famous scramble crossing in Tokyo's Shibuya district.