Japanese Films Achieve Triple Nomination at Academy Awards

LOS ANGELES, Jan 24 (News On Japan) - In a remarkable achievement for Japanese cinema, three films from Japan have been announced as final nominees at the prestigious Academy Awards.

"PERFECT DAYS," set in Tokyo's Shibuya district, is a story about a toilet cleaner played by Koji Yakusho, capturing the subtle emotional fluctuations in his everyday life. Following Yakusho's Best Actor win at last year's Cannes Film Festival, the film has now been nominated in the International Feature Film category.

"The Boy and The Heron", directed by Hayao Miyazaki after a decade-long hiatus, has secured a nomination in the Animated Feature Film category. The film, which already claimed the Golden Globe Award, is drawing heightened anticipation for Miyazaki's potential Oscar win since his success with "Spirited Away."

"GODZILLA MINUS ONE," commemorating the 70th anniversary of Godzilla's creation, marks a historic moment as it becomes the first Japanese production to be nominated for the Visual Effects Award. Set in post-war Japan turned to ash, the film has seen exceptional success in North America.

The award ceremony is scheduled to be held on March 10th in Los Angeles.

by Brian Dentry

Source: ANN

Japan Ranks 92nd in English Proficiency, Lowest in History

EF Education First, a global education organization, published this year’s English Proficiency Index on Wednesday, ranking nations worldwide. Japan’s ranking stood at 92nd among 116 countries and regions, continuing a 14-year trend of record lows.

Famed Hot Spring Struggles to Handle Visitor Surge

Ginzan Hot Springs in Yamagata, known for its Taisho-era charm, is now at peak season for autumn foliage. While this secluded onsen town is a well-known destination in the Tohoku region, an influx of foreign tourists has led local officials to implement restrictions on day visitors starting next month.

Convenience Stores to Start Selling Over-the-Counter Drugs

Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has announced plans to allow the sale of over-the-counter drugs at convenience stores without on-site pharmacists.

Japan Looks to Limit Continuous Work

Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's advisory panel has outlined a proposal for amending the law to prohibit working more than 14 consecutive days. Under the current system, workers can technically work up to 48 days in a row through a system known as 'four-day-off-per-four-weeks,' while labor agreements also allow for holiday work, meaning there are no effective restrictions on consecutive workdays.

First 'Rose of Versailles' Manhole Covers Appear in Chiba’s Kashiwa

Manhole covers featuring characters from Riyoko Ikeda’s popular manga The Rose of Versailles were unveiled on November 11th at three locations within Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Entertainment NEWS

Re:Zero: Subaru's Peaceful Days End with a Mysterious Invitation

'Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World' follows the story of Subaru Natsuki, an ordinary young man who is unexpectedly transported to a fantastical world while on his way home from the convenience store.

SANA of TWICE Stuns in 7 Billion Yen Jewelry, Shares Her Secret to Beauty

SANA (27), a member of the multinational girl group TWICE, recently shared insights into how she maintains her beauty. "I prioritize mental care above all else," she explained. "Being on my own side gives me the most strength. Also, when it comes to my body, I make sure to release any tension in my muscles whenever they feel tight," she revealed.