Society

Japanese pharma firm hoping for oral drug game changer

Feb 25 (NHK) - Japan's daily case numbers of the coronavirus infections remain relatively high. But there's a potential game changer in the fight against COVID-19.

A Japanese drug maker has applied for fast-track approval for the country's first domestically developed oral treatment.

Health authorities across Japan reported more than 65,000 new infections on Friday. That is about 40,000 less than the peak earlier this month, but the pace of decline has been slow.

More than 30 prefectures, including Tokyo and Osaka, remain under quasi-emergency measures.

The drug, developed by pharmaceutical firm Shionogi, could be Japan's first locally made COVID pill.

Atami’s New Lodging Tax Aimed at Foreign Visitors Draws Criticism from Japanese

As Japan enjoys the economic boost from a surge in foreign tourists, the hot spring town of Atami has introduced a lodging tax in April to tackle overtourism—prompting backlash from Japanese travelers who question why they, too, must pay a fee meant for inbound tourism.

Japanese Emergency Team Begins Work in Quake-Hit Mandalay

A Japanese emergency relief team dispatched by the government has begun operations in Mandalay, a region heavily affected by the recent earthquake in central Myanmar that has claimed more than 3,000 lives.

Exploring the Mystery of Okinawa's Royal Tomb

Shuri Castle, a symbol of Okinawa's Ryukyu heritage, suffered extensive damage in a devastating fire in October 2019 that destroyed the main hall and many other structures. The cause of the blaze remains unknown.

Lack of Carpenters Causing Construction Delays

A deepening labor shortage in Japan’s construction industry is beginning to impact homebuyers, with some experiencing delays of more than six months before construction can even begin due to a lack of available carpenters.

Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

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Tokyo Police Launch Specialized Unit for Lone Offenders

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Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Comedy Duo Ends Role Supporting 2025 Expo

Downtown, the popular comedy duo, has stepped down as official ambassadors for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, according to an announcement by the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition.

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