Japan compiles measures to reduce pollen levels

TOKYO, Oct 12 (NHK) - Japan's government has compiled a set of measures to reduce the pressing problem of hay fever. It aims to cut pollen dispersal in half over 30 years by reducing cedar forests.

Pollen allergies have become a "social health problem" in Japan, a country that is about 70 percent forested.

The plan is to clear about 20 percent of artificially planted cedar trees over the next ten years.

Ministers agreed that such trees will be cut down or replaced with species that produce less pollen. They will designate areas where this will be done by next March.

The government plans to provide more detailed data of cedar forests so that accurate pollen dispersal levels can be predicted.

It will also be using supercomputer and AI technology to provide weather information that focuses on pollen distribution.

The government wants to include a related budget for these measures in its economic package to be compiled by the end of this month.

Crimes by U.S. Military Personnel Hit Record High in Okinawa

The number of U.S. military personnel arrested for criminal offenses in Okinawa has reached 77 so far this year, already surpassing the record total for all of 2024 as of the end of September.

Japan to Tighten Visa Rules on Foreigners Behind on Health Insurance

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare plans to introduce a new system starting in June 2027 that will, in principle, deny changes or renewals of residence status for foreign residents who fail to pay their national health insurance premiums despite repeated requests for payment.

New Typhoon is Forming, Okinawa Could Be Affected Next Week

As of November 4th, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that a tropical depression near the Caroline Islands is expected to develop into a typhoon within the next 24 hours. The system is separate from Typhoon No. 25 (Haiyan) currently near the Philippines and is projected to move northwestward once it intensifies.

Akita Woman Becomes 13th Bear Victim

Japan’s record-breaking bear crisis has entered a new and deadly phase, with authorities confirming that a 79-year-old woman missing in Akita Prefecture was found dead in the mountains, believed to be the 13th fatality from bear attacks this year.

Second Bird Flu Case of the Season, Massive Culling Underway

An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Eniwa City, Hokkaido, prompting authorities to begin culling operations on Sunday afternoon.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Politics NEWS

Japan to Tighten Visa Rules on Foreigners Behind on Health Insurance

China Extends Visa-Free Entry for Japan

China’s Foreign Ministry announced that it will extend visa-free entry for Japan, France, and 43 other countries until the end of December 2026, as the government seeks to attract more overseas investment and tourists amid a prolonged economic slowdown.

Singapore and Japan Deepen Ties for ASEAN Prosperity

As the new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, begins her term, many countries are sending in facilitation letters and also pledging their commitment to mutually beneficial ties.

Japan Faces Legal Hurdles in Deploying Military for Bear Control

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.

LDP and Ishin Launch Weekly Policy Talks on Regional Revitalization

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) confirmed during a meeting in Tokyo that they will establish a new council this week composed of each party’s policy chiefs to deepen cooperation on policy matters.

Trump’s Defeat by the Nobel Prize: What Was He Really Thinking?

As expected, the previously outspoken U.S. President Donald Trump did not win the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. However, he was forced to put on a brave face—Venezuela’s María Machado was the recipient.

Takaichi and Xi Hold 10-Second Handshake

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.

PM Takaichi’s Favorite Bag and Pen Spark Shopping Frenzy

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has quickly become Japan’s newest fashion icon. Since taking office just ten days ago, the 63-year-old leader’s signature style -- defined by her understated black tote bag and soft pink pen -- has sparked a nationwide shopping craze.

< 2 3 4 5 >