State funeral for former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe faces growing public backlash

Aug 18 (South China Morning Post) - Opposition is growing in Japan over the decision to hold a state funeral for the late former leader Shinzo Abe.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on July 14, 2022, that a state funeral will be held for Abe that would be funded entirely by the government. A group of around 200 demonstrators took to the streets of Tokyo on August 16 to protest against the decision to use taxpayer funds. Shinzo Abe, who is Japan's longest-serving prime minister, was shot dead on July 8 in broad daylight while campaigning ahead of upper house elections. The cabinet decided that the state funeral would be held on September 27 at the Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo.

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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