Travel

Quake-damaged Minami-aso Railway fully reopens for first time in 7 years

Jul 16 (NHK) - The Minami-aso Railway in Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan, has resumed full operations after a seven-year partial suspension following a series of powerful earthquakes.

The railway connects Takamori Station in Takamori Town and Tateno Station in Minami-aso Village. However, service on about 60 percent of the line was suspended after it was heavily damaged in the 2016 tremors.

Early Saturday, a crowd of well-wishers as well railway staff prayed for the train's safe operation in a ceremony at Takamori Station. Then, at exactly 6:00 a.m., the first train bound for Tateno Station pulled out with the crowd waving from the platform.

Passengers were able to enjoy the spectacular scenery centering on Mount Aso. They were particularly enthralled to see the view from a bridge that was rebuilt after being destroyed in the disaster. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

New Japanese Passport Applications to Go Online

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.

Future of Solar Power: Japan's Breakthrough Technology

The next generation of solar cells, known as perovskite solar panels, are ultra-thin, lightweight, and bendable. The Japanese government has set a goal of achieving the equivalent of the energy output from 20 nuclear reactors with perovskite solar cells by 2040. With their use set to expand in various locations next year, 2024 is being called "the dawn of domestic perovskite."

Record 7,000 Teachers in Japan on Leave Due to Mental Health

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Japan Reports 60% Rise in Non-Consensual Intercourse Cases

Japan's Ministry of Justice has released this year’s crime white paper, revealing that the number of recognized penal code offenses increased for the second consecutive year.

Giant Dragon Removed from Osaka Ramen Shop

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Severe Overtourism Hits Mt. Fuji’s Scenic Spots

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