Travel

Japan reports increasing helmet usage among cyclists: survey

TOKYO, Sep 14 (Xinhua) - About 13 percent of bicycle riders in Japan are now wearing helmets following a revised road traffic law that came into force in April, a recent survey has shown.

The reading marked a significant increase from the previous figure of 4 percent recorded in a survey conducted before the country's road traffic law was revised to mandate cyclists across all age groups in Japan to wear helmets in April.

A separate report released by the agency on Thursday showed that the October-December period, particularly from 2018 to 2022, recorded the highest number of cycling-related fatalities, totaling 575 individuals.

This phenomenon is attributed to several factors, including the early sunset times during these months, leading to reduced visibility during the twilight hours when many people are commuting or shopping, according to the report. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

Countdown to the New Year: Best Times to Visit Shrines for ‘Hatsumode’

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.

Drone Footage Reveals Izu's Abandoned Hotels

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.

Japan Meteorological Agency Announces 3-Month Forecast

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.

Struggles Continue in Noto Peninsula One Year After Earthquake

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.

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.

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