News On Japan

Japan screens foreign researchers for espionage risks

Aug 14 (Nikkei) - Japan has set stricter screening requirements for foreign researchers entering the country, aiming to keep sensitive research and technologies from leaking to China and elsewhere.

In order to apply for a Japanese visa, researchers and students need to obtain a certificate of eligibility from their schools and employers. The document includes such information as their purpose of travel and their planned address in Japan.

The government last year began requiring additional information from those involved in sensitive research, such as sponsors and travel histories. Applicants also need to submit past research papers and home-country work histories.

The move comes as China offers generous compensation to recruit foreign experts under its Thousand Talents plan. The U.S. and Europe are also taking steps to prevent technology leaks.

The requirement has applied to relatively few people so far as Japan has limited arrivals to combat COVID-19. Of the 150,000 foreign nationals newly entering the country in 2021, just 89 did so on research-related visas. ...continue reading

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Abandoned hotels in Shizuoka’s Izu Peninsula are becoming an increasing concern for local authorities. Once bustling with tourists during Japan’s economic boom, many hot spring resorts in Higashi-Izu Town have been left derelict, their structures crumbling and ownership unclear.

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a decision to ease visa requirements for Chinese nationals visiting Japan.

Temperatures are expected to remain unusually cold in January next year, with the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) predicting colder-than-average conditions nationwide for the start of the year.

Nearly a year has passed since the Noto Peninsula earthquake struck on New Year’s Day, leaving the region grappling with recovery efforts and compounding challenges. In Suzu City’s Otani district, residents began moving into temporary housing earlier this month, following 11 months of hardship, including additional damage from September’s torrential rains.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unveiled a new passport design set to be issued from March next year. The new system will allow online applications not only for renewals but also for new passport requests. Submitting an original family register certificate will no longer be required for online applications.

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