Osaka ramen shop ordered to remove dragon's tail

OSAKA, Oct 28 (News On Japan) - A court in Osaka has ordered the removal of a protruding tail of a three-dimensional dragon signboard outside a popular ramen shop in Osaka's Minami district.

A real estate company that owns the adjacent land claimed that the "tail part of the three-dimensional signboard and the eaves are overhanging onto the neighboring land" and sued the operating company of Kinryu Ramen for its removal.

The dragon signboard was created around 1992, and depicts a giant dragon's face and body on the front of the store, while the tail portion sticks out from the side wall.

Kinryu Ramen argued, "If it's removed, the brand image will be greatly diminished" and is considering an appeal.

The dragon is a popular spot for photos.

A local resident commented, "I hope they keep this impressive feature. Watching and enjoying it is also one of the pleasures of this town. The dragon itself has an image of a deity bringing fortune and work blessings, so if its tail is cut off, it feels like such blessings would also disappear. It would be a waste."

by Brian Dentry

Sapporo Snow Festival Opens With Spectacular Ice Sculptures

The 75th Sapporo Snow Festival kicked off on February 4th, drawing large crowds from both Japan and abroad to one of Hokkaido’s most iconic winter events.

Man in Stockings Arrested for Indecent Exposure at Convenience Store

A 55-year-old demolition worker has been arrested on suspicion of violating Hokkaido’s Public Nuisance Prevention Ordinance after entering a convenience store wearing only stockings on his lower body and exposing himself to a female clerk.

Residents on Edge as Monkey Attacks Increase in Tokushima

A series of monkey attacks on residents have been reported in Tokushima City since January, with cases involving elementary and junior high school students prompting heightened police patrols.

Softbank Unveils 'Crystal' in Partnership With OpenAI

SoftBank Group Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman have launched a new AI services company in Japan, aiming to drive innovation in enterprise AI. At the unveiling, Son introduced the company’s first service, "Crystal," which he described as a revolutionary AI solution that will transform business operations.

New Russian Structures Appear on Disputed Northern Islands

Russia has expanded its facilities on Suisho Island in the Habomai group of the Northern Territories, which it continues to occupy illegally.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Business NEWS

Honda Proposes Making Nissan a Subsidiary in Merger Talks

Honda has proposed making Nissan a subsidiary as part of ongoing discussions on a potential business integration, according to sources.

Japan's Investment Map for Trump

Prime Minister Ishiba, ahead of the US-Japan summit with President Trump, is set to present a specially prepared map showcasing Japanese corporate investments across the United States, a strategic move aimed at emphasizing Japan’s economic contributions while negotiating key issues such as tariffs, defense spending, and security commitments.

Trump Tariffs Could Deal Heavy Blow to Japanese Auto Parts Makers

The signing of a presidential order imposing a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico by U.S. President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the markets, with the Nikkei Stock Average plunging sharply on February 3rd. Concerns are mounting over the impact on the Tokai region’s auto industry, a key pillar of the local economy.

USJ Expands Hiring, Targeting Middle-Aged and Senior Workers

Universal Studios Japan (USJ), a major theme park in Osaka, continues to draw large crowds from both Japan and abroad. Behind the scenes, thousands of employees keep the park running smoothly.

Costco to Hike Membership Fees

Costco announced on February 3rd that it will raise the annual cost of its Gold Star membership by 440 yen to 5,280 yen, while the Executive membership, which offers a 2% rebate on purchases, will increase by 660 yen to 10,560 yen, starting May 1st.

Softbank Unveils 'Crystal' in Partnership With OpenAI

Large-Scale Solar Panel Project in Nara Canceled

Nara Governor Yamashita has announced the cancellation of a large-scale solar power project in Gojo City, citing the inability to secure local consent. The project, initially proposed as an alternative to a previously planned 2,000-meter runway, was intended to support power supply stability during disasters and include a disaster-response heliport.

Honda and Nissan Delay Integration Until Mid-Feb

Honda and Nissan's negotiations over a potential business integration have hit a roadblock, with concerns that Nissan’s restructuring measures are inadequate.

< 2 3 4 5 >