Jan 23 (Netflix Anime) - From episode 2 of Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre.
Japan’s worsening bear problem has prompted calls for national intervention, but legal and operational barriers have complicated the government’s response. In 2025, bear attacks have reached record levels, leaving 12 people dead—double the previous high of six fatalities in 2023.
Kyoto’s prized bamboo shoots, a seasonal delicacy that graces dining tables each spring, are facing an unprecedented crisis this year. The culprit is the Chinese bamboo moth (Sinachiku nomeiga), whose larvae feed on bamboo leaves, weakening the plants and severely reducing harvest yields.
Typhoon No. 25 (Kalmaegi) is currently located east of the Philippines and moving west-northwest. The storm is expected to continue on a westward track, passing near the Philippines before entering the South China Sea. Weather agencies forecast that the typhoon will not have a direct impact on Japan.
Halloween Eve in Shibuya still drew a festive atmosphere, with people gathering in costume and enjoying the night. Tokyo police deployed several hundred officers, including the well-known “DJ police,” to manage the crowds and prevent congestion at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood side by side before the cameras on October 31st at 5 p.m. for a moment that drew intense attention. “Hello, please this way,” said Xi as the two leaders exchanged a handshake lasting roughly 10 seconds in front of their national flags. Takaichi’s expression was stiff at first but softened slightly into a faint smile, while Xi’s face remained largely unchanged.
The recipients of this autumn’s Medals of Honor have been announced, with film director Junji Sakamoto, known for works such as 'A Chorus of Angels,' received the Medal with Purple Ribbon, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the fields of art, culture, and sports.
The symbolic Atom statue that stood atop the Pasona Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo has been removed, marking the next step in the relocation of its exhibits to Awaji Island.
Kao’s long-running shampoo brand “Merit” has captured wide attention with its television commercial titled “Family, Love, and Merit,” which has now surpassed 3 million views online. The ad, rendered in a soft illustration style and set to Ringo Sheena’s song “Theory of Happiness,” has been praised on social media for its emotional impact and relatable message about everyday family life.
A happy City Pop mix of the 70s, 80s and 90s | 昭和 (TRNGL)
Let's have a look at all the remaining October performances! (Kabuki In-Depth)
The emergence of Harajuku fashion originated under the motto of dressing freely, without having to follow established social norms. (TRNGL)
A musical event that brought together about 150 professional and amateur musicians was held on October 25th in Toyokawa, Aichi Prefecture. Participants performed as one large band, creating a lively atmosphere inside a shopping mall.
A Japan-Korea exchange event organized by Nara Prefecture was held on October 24th, featuring performances by K-pop artists and traditional entertainers from both countries to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Nara’s friendship agreement with South Chungcheong Province in South Korea.