Japan questions Unification Church for 2nd time over illegal acts

TOKYO, Dec 15 (Kyodo) - The Japanese government exercised Wednesday its "right to question" the Unification Church for the second time, as it continues investigating the controversial religious group with an eye on a court order to remove the organization's status as a religious corporation with tax benefits.

In the latest round of inquiries following the first one in November, culture minister Keiko Nagaoka requested the organization to submit documents related to 22 past civil lawsuits that found it responsible for illegal practices in fundraising and recruiting, sources close to the matter said.

The group's alleged malicious fundraising practices came under intensified scrutiny following the fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July. ...continue reading

Student's Homemade Bomb Sparks School Lockdown in Sapporo

A suspicious object feared to be explosive was discovered at a high school in Sapporo on the afternoon of November 22nd, causing temporary chaos. The object was found to have been brought to the school by one of its students.

China to resume visa-exemptions for short-term Japanese travelers

China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

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Elon Musk Highlights Japanese 'Wabi-Sabi' in Social Media Post

Elon Musk, the incoming head of the newly established Efficiency Ministry under President-elect Trump, has vowed to reduce $500 billion in government waste annually. Musk, known for his admiration of Japanese culture, sparked speculation on October 21st with a social media post simply stating "Wabi-Sabi" in Japanese, prompting questions about his intentions.

Japan's Agriculture Ministry Urges Nationwide Action to Combat Avian Flu

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.

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Japan, Canada to Establish Economic '2+2' Framework for EV Cooperation

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China Awarded Hosting Rights for the 2026 APEC Summit

The 2024 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit successfully concluded in November in Lima, Peru. During this meeting, which brought together leaders from 21 member economies, in-depth discussions were held on topics such as regional economic integration, global trade, and sustainable development.

Trump's Victory: The End of Traditional Media in America?

"Harris is merely the runner-up; her media 'cheerleaders' are licking their wounds and will take longer to recover. After all, they were the ones who worked hardest to bring down Trump—yet, after eight years of effort, they’re weaker and more embarrassed than ever before," wrote Elle Purnell, an editor at The Federalist and one of the few traditional media figures who staunchly support Trump.

Middle East tensions are a crude awakening for Japan’s energy security strategy

Geopolitical risks in the Middle East have rapidly escalated since the October 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas. In addition to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, a regional war has grown likelier due to Iran–Israel tensions. This poses serious concerns for Japan’s energy security, which depends on Middle Eastern oil supply. (East Asia Forum)

Hyogo Governor Secures Re-Election

Former Hyogo Governor Motohiko Saito has secured re-election following the gubernatorial election triggered by his resignation.

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