Society

21 countries compete in first-ever 'SpoGomi' trash pickup event in Tokyo

TOKYO, Nov 22 (News On Japan) - The first-ever competition to determine the world's best at trash collection has been held, with representatives from 21 countries gathering in Tokyo.

This event marks the inaugural World Cup final of "SpoGomi," a Japan-originated sport that combines trash picking with athleticism, in the streets of Shibuya, Tokyo.

Teams competed within designated areas, scoring points based on the amount and types of trash collected within a set time limit.

"SpoGomi" began in 2008 with the aim of raising awareness about the growing problem of marine plastic waste and reducing litter. To date, over 140,000 people have participated in the initiative.

The British team was crowned the first champion.

SpoGomi website: SPOGOMI WORLD CUP 2023

JR West Develops Special Umbrella to Protect Passengers from Knife Attacks

JR West Japan has announced the development of a special umbrella designed to protect passengers and crew from attackers wielding knives or other weapons, with plans to equip train cars with these umbrellas.

Bus carrying Japanese tourists crashes in Turkey, 6 people hospitalized

The Japanese embassy in Turkey says six Japanese tourists were hospitalized with injuries on Thursday after their bus was involved in an accident in western Turkey. (NHK)

New Replica COVID Vaccine Sparks Controversy in Japan

Japan’s recent approval and rollout of a new "Replica Vaccine" for COVID-19 has triggered widespread public concern, with some businesses imposing entry bans on vaccinated individuals. The vaccine, which began regular administration in October, has faced backlash due to its ability to "self-replicate" in the body, raising anxiety about its safety.

Japan's Oldest Reactor Gets Approval to Operate 50+ Years

Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority has granted approval for Kansai Electric Power Company's Takahama Reactor No. 1 to operate for over 50 years, marking a first in Japan, reaching its 50th anniversary next month.

Japan Faces 18 Trillion Yen Economic Loss Due to Sleep Deprivation

Japan is grappling with a severe sleep deprivation crisis, with economic losses estimated at 18 trillion yen annually due to reduced productivity, according to a study by the RAND Corporation.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Society NEWS

Princess Aiko Following in Her Parents' Footsteps

The complete footage of Princess Aiko's first local official duty has been released. She visited Saga Prefecture, marking her first trip to the Kyushu region. It was also her first time attending the National Sports Festival.

Japanese actor Nishida Toshiyuki has died

Japanese actor Nishida Toshiyuki, who was known for performing wide-ranging roles in popular film and drama, has died at the age of 76. He was found collapsed at his home in Tokyo on Thursday. Police are investigating details. (NHK)

Crime Wave Continues in Yokohama and Chiba

A series of robberies has been occurring in the Kanto region, with two new cases on October 16th in Yokohama and Chiba, where the victims were tied up.

Ex-Couple Arrested for Assaulting Each Other at Atami Fireworks

A former married couple got into a serious argument during a fireworks festival in Atami, resulting in both being arrested.

Shrines Clash at 'Nada Kenka Festival'

The 'Nada Kenka Festival,' renowned for its fierce clashes between portable shrines, took place in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, attracting large crowds of spectators.

More Than 100 People Swarm Railroad Crossing Late at Night

What happened to cause over 100 people to gather at a railroad crossing in the middle of the night? Even after the barrier dropped and the alarm rang, people remained inside the crossing.

Entering the Slum that Japan Doesn't Want You to See

Japan has one of the lowest homelessness rates in the world, with less than 0.003% of its population living on the streets. This is a testament to the country's robust social programs and unique cultural approach to addressing homelessness. (Drew Binsky)

Have Young Japanese Given Up on Dating? | Street Interview

Are you currently dating anyone? What does love mean to you? (Asian Boss)

< 2 3 4 5 >