Society

Nikkei marks highest close in over 3 decades

Jan 13 (NHK) - Tokyo's benchmark stock index continues to be on a tear, hitting a 30 year-record high again on Wednesday. Semiconductor-related shares continued to climb as investors bet they'll be well-placed to weather the pandemic.

The Nikkei Average ended at 28,456, up a little more than 1 percent from Tuesday's close. That's the highest level since August 1990.

Chipmakers Advantest and Renesas Electronics each surged by around 5 percent.

Yaskawa Electric rose 4.4 percent. The company has revised upward its net profit forecast on healthy demand for chips and electronic components in China.

The Nikkei 225 extended its winning streak to 4 days, adding more than 5 percent.

Analysts say the market has been supported by solid demand for stocks despite global turmoil.

78 Hours After Road Collapse, Bleak Weather Hampers Rescuers

A road collapse in Yashio, Saitama Prefecture, has entered its 78th hour, with rescue crews battling persistent water inflows. Snow and rain expected on Sunday could further complicate efforts.

Tourists Flock to Hokkaido for Lunar New Year

Hokkaido is taking steps to address overtourism issues as large numbers of foreign visitors arrive during the Lunar New Year holiday.

Mahoroba Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ship Debuts, Connecting Central Osaka and Expo Site in 60 Minutes

The hydrogen fuel cell ship "Mahoroba," designed to connect central Osaka with the Expo venue in Yumeshima in approximately 60 minutes, was unveiled to the media ahead of its commercial launch during the Expo period.

Japanese Clinics Gaining Popularity Among Travelers

From sudden severe pain during a gourmet-filled trip to chronic illness attacks that medication cannot treat, what kinds of symptoms bring foreign tourists to clinics?

Public Smoking Ban Across Osaka, Violators Fined 1,000 Yen

Starting January 27, Osaka City has implemented a citywide ban on smoking in public areas, including heated tobacco products, as part of preparations for the Osaka-Kansai Expo set to open in April.

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