Society

Cool Japan Fund drops Malaysia store

Jun 12 (NHK) - The Cool Japan Fund is pulling out of a department store joint venture in Kuala Lumpur. The public-private institution invests in projects that promote Japanese goods and services overseas.

The Cool Japan Fund started operating the department store 2 years ago in partnership with Japanese retailer Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings.

The store showcases anime, clothing and other products related to Japanese pop culture. It also sells rice wine and traditional craft.

Demand failed to pick up. Last year, the store posted a loss of about 4.5 million dollars.

The Cool Japan Fund will sell all its shares to Isetan Mitsukoshi. The retailer says it aims to turn the business around with a new product lineup.

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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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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