Society

The hidden religion banned in Japan for 200 years

Nov 30 (BBC Reel) - In 1614 Christianity was outlawed in Japan. Under the new law – missionaries were arrested and sentenced to death. However, some Christians refused to abandon their religion and went underground, continuing their faith in secret for centuries.

These people became known as 'Kakure Kirishitan' or 'Hidden Christians'. They camouflaged their worship by combining their Christian faith with elements of Buddhism and Shinto, creating a new hybrid version of Christianity, which they maintained underground for over 200 years.

One Month to Expo: International Pavilions Near Completion

With just one month to go until the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 opens on April 13, preparations are nearing completion. Visitors can now get an early glimpse of the atmosphere at the venue, where various pavilions are taking shape.

'Kawazu Sakura Festival' Extended as Unusual Weather Delays Bloom

Unusual weather delayed the bloom of Kawazu cherry blossoms in Shizuoka Prefecture by two weeks, leading to a nine-day extension of the Kawazu Sakura Festival.

Half-Century Ban Ends: Fukuoka Hosts Fin Whale Trade Show

A trade exhibition featuring domestically caught fin whale meat, harvested under Japan’s resumed commercial whaling program, was held in Fukuoka. Fin whale meat is known for its mild flavor and rich fat content.

Japan Approves Bill to Strengthen Penalties Against Host Clubs

In response to cases where female customers were burdened with excessive debts and coerced into prostitution, the Japanese government approved an amendment to the Entertainment Business Law during a cabinet meeting on Thursday.

Shimadzu Unveils World's First Optical Lattice Clock

Shimadzu Corporation has launched the world's first optical lattice clock, which measures time using the oscillation frequency of atoms trapped by lasers. The clock boasts an unparalleled accuracy, with an error of just one second over 10 billion years.

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World Scallop Fishing Championship Held in Hokkaido

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Car Rides Onto Utility Pole Support in Tokyo

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Free ‘Manhole Cards’ Resold for Thousands, Angering Collectors

A surge in the resale of 'Manhole Cards,' collectible cards featuring designs of local manhole covers distributed for free by municipalities, has angered collectors and local governments. Some cards are being resold for as much as 100,000 yen, prompting concerns over fairness and the original intent behind the initiative.

Abandoned Hospital Becomes Haunting Ground, Alarming Residents

An abandoned hospital in Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture, has become a well-known "haunted spot," drawing unwanted attention and raising concerns among local residents. Fresh footprints in the snow indicate frequent trespassing, despite the lack of any official visitors.

Week-Long Wildfire in Ofunato: Rain Offers Hope for Containment

A wildfire that erupted in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, on February 26th has now entered its second week, with firefighters struggling to contain the flames.

Japan Renews Bid for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Status for Calligraphy

Japan has renewed its bid to have calligraphy recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, following a decision by the Cultural Affairs Council. If accepted, it would become Japan’s 24th registered cultural heritage.

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