Travel

Horyuji temple raises 7 times its crowdfunding target

Jul 31 (NHK) - Horyuji temple in Japan's ancient capital of Nara has raised more than seven times its crowdfunding target to supplement a decline in revenues due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The crowdfunding website shows that more than 7,400 people had donated a total of more than 146 million yen, roughly 1 million dollars, when the funding campaign closed at 11 p.m. on Friday.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site began the campaign on June 15 to raise 20 million yen to be able to carry out maintenance on the compound.

Horyuji needed donations because its main source of income from admission fees had fallen to about half of pre-pandemic levels due to the plunge in the number of visitors. ...continue reading

Six people dead, two missing in Ishikawa Pref. after torrential downpours

Six people are dead in the wake of torrential downpours in Japan's central Ishikawa Prefecture that have caused rivers to flood and mudslides across the Noto region. Some people living in temporary shelters following the New Year's Day earthquake are once again facing recovery efforts, this time from flooding. (NHK)

First Snow of Season Observed at Mount Rishiri

Signs of winter are already arriving. Mount Rishiri in Hokkaido recorded the first snowfall of the season on Sunday, making it the first observed in Japan this year.

Flying Car Shows Potential for Disaster Relief

A test flight for flying cars was conducted in Wakayama Prefecture on Saturday, reaching an altitude of 40 meters, demonstrating stability in windy conditions.

Ohtani Hits Milestone with 52-52 Record

Shohei Ohtani returned to Dodger Stadium in spectacular fashion, hitting a home run and stealing a base in his first game back, raising his season total to 52 home runs and 52 stolen bases.

China to Lift Japanese Seafood Ban

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio says Japan and China have reached an agreement that will lead to the resumption of China's imports of Japanese seafood. (NHK)

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