TOKYO, Jun 07 (South China Morning Post) - As more people shed their masks during the post-Covid era, Japan has seen a surge in demand for training in the art of smiling.
In one of Keiko Kawano’s recent classes, more than a dozen Tokyo art school students practised how to lift their lips to a perfect angle through the use of mirrors and a facial detection software that rates the quality of their smiles.
Chisako Kakehi, 78, who was on death row for poisoning three men with cyanide compounds, has died while in custody, according to reports. Authorities believe she may have died of natural causes.
With only a week left until the New Year, people are preparing for "hatsumode," the tradition of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the year. However, the first three days of January see heavy crowds at popular spots. Strategic planning around timing and location can help avoid congestion and make for a quieter visit.
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.
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.
Public school teachers currently receive an additional 4% of their salary as a "teaching adjustment allowance" in lieu of overtime pay.
Why should you never teach English in Japan? After teaching for 5 years, this is my advice on why Japan is far from your best choice for an English teaching job. (Oriental Pearl)
An expert panel of Japan's education ministry has put together new draft guidelines for expanding the use of generative artificial intelligence at schools. (NHK)
Winter break will begin on December 24th. On December 23rd, many public elementary schools in Osaka City held their closing ceremonies.
Hi, this is Shibasaki! In today’s video, I’m bringing a kitten to life on paper with watercolor magic. The highlight is the kitten’s sparkling, galaxy-like eyes—don’t miss the moment they come to life! Through unique blending, splashing, and bleeding techniques, you’ll see how watercolors can create a truly enchanting effect. (Watercolor by Shibasaki)
The number of teachers taking mental health leave reached a record high of 7,119 in the 2023 fiscal year at public schools across Japan.
A wedding project led by high school students is gaining attention. Named Yacchae Bridal, this initiative involves third-year high school students planning and producing weddings as part of their coursework.
“I feel a little sad about it, to be honest,” a local parent remarked, reflecting on Kobe City’s decision to end school-based extracurricular activities. “But when I think about teachers being able to have personal time, I guess it’s unavoidable. Still, it’s hard for both parents and children to adapt to such changes midway. I just hope the transition minimizes disruptions to the environment they’re used to.”
