Society

Tokyo Aug. virus infections reach monthly record with 8,126 cases

Sep 01 (Kyodo) - Tokyo confirmed on Monday a monthly record 8,126 new cases of the novel coronavirus in August, exceeding the 6,466 infections logged in July.

The metropolitan government reported 100 new cases the same day, bringing the capital's cumulative total to 20,817. August saw Tokyo hit daily cases in triple digits on every day bar one, marking a record 472 on Aug. 1.

The single-day increase in the capital compares with the 148 cases confirmed on Sunday.

The daily figures from the metropolitan government reflect the most recent totals reported by health authorities and medical institutions.

Nationwide, 437 new infection cases were confirmed Monday, bringing the accumulated number of infections in Japan to 69,147 including about 700 from the Diamond Princess, a cruise ship that was quarantined in Yokohama in February.

The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the country totaled 1,313, with 14 deaths confirmed Monday.

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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