Society

Japan begins trial of over-the-counter 'morning-after pill' sales

TOKYO, Nov 28 (Kyodo) - Japan began trial over-the-counter sales of morning-after pills on Tuesday as the nation takes a major step toward joining dozens of others that make the emergency contraception drugs available without a doctor's prescription.

Morning-after pills are now sold at 145 drug stores nationwide at prices ranging from around 7,000 yen ($47) to 9,000 yen as part of the health ministry's investigative trial.

Women aged 16 and older and who wish to obtain the drugs through the study can buy the pills after calling the pharmacy in advance. Any woman who is under 18 must have parental consent and be accompanied by a parent when making the purchase. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

Monkey Warnings at Tokyo Disneyland

A monkey has been spotted within the premises of Tokyo Disney Resort after it had moved south along the coast from Urayasu City, where it was seen on November 4th.

Whale Shark Found Dead in Local River

A whale shark that mysteriously appeared in a river has been identified as one previously kept at an aquarium in Osaka Prefecture.

Keio Railway Introduces 'Credit Card Touch-and-Go' at All Stations

Keio Railway launched a pilot program on Wednesday for touch payment ride services using credit cards and similar methods across all its stations.

Japanese-Style Town Emerges in Thailand

A new trend has emerged in Thailand, known for its friendly ties with Japan, where Japanese-style townscapes are being faithfully recreated.

Japan Struggles to Find New Uses for Abandoned Schools

In recent years, approximately 450 schools close annually in Japan, with around 20% left unused. These unused schools face potential demolition as maintenance becomes unsustainable, prompting a response from the Ministry of Education, which has launched matching sites and events to promote new uses.

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Investigation into the Roots of Suzuki

In Japan, the 'Suzuki' surname ranks as the country's second most common, following 'Sato.' The origins of this widespread name can be traced back to Kumano faith and its spread across the nation, with roots at the Fujishiro Shrine in Wakayama Prefecture's Kainan City.

Traditional Sake Brewing Nears UNESCO Heritage Status

Japan’s traditional sake brewing has taken a step closer to being recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. UNESCO's Evaluation Body, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has recommended that Japan’s “traditional sake brewing” practices, including sake, shochu, and awamori production, be registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, according to Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs.