Society

Kyoto's Minamiza Theater, famed for Kabuki, reopens after 2-yr hiatus

Nov 02 (Kyodo) - Kyoto's Minamiza Theater, famed for Kabuki, reopened Thursday after around two years and nine months during which it was reinforced against earthquakes.

The theater in Shijogawara, where Kabuki originated, has a history that dates back 400 years and the current building, with its traditional Momoyama-style exterior design, was completed in 1929. It had been closed since February 2016 for major refurbishment.

While the outward appearance has been retained, theater equipment has been updated. Removable audience seating was also newly installed on the first floor so that the stage floor can be extended.

The "kaomise" first production of the season will run for two months, celebrating the building's renewal. The program and players will change every month.

Source: Kyodo

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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Renowned poet Tanikawa Shuntaro dies at 92

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