Travel

East Asia's Largest Iron Sword Goes on Public Display

NARA, Apr 01 (News On Japan) - The general public now has the rare opportunity to view the "Serpentine Sword," the largest iron sword in East Asia, which was excavated from a tumulus in Nara City.

Measuring 2.37 meters in length and resembling the winding form of a snake, the Serpentine Sword is believed to have been crafted in the latter half of the 4th century. It was discovered in the Tomio Maruyama tumulus in Nara City.

Alongside the sword, other significant discoveries related to the artifact have been made, including its 38-centimeter-long hilt, the oldest known wedge-shaped pommel, and its nearly 2.48-meter-long scabbard. This marks the first time these items have been presented to the public.

Visitors have been profoundly moved by the exhibition, with one stating, "It feels more magnificent and inspiring than what you see in pictures or videos."

The exhibition of the Serpentine Sword will continue until April 7th.

Source: ANN

Severe Rice Shortage Looms in Japan

Japan is facing an unprecedented rice shortage, with recent data highlighting alarming supply-demand imbalances in the domestic market. The Agricultural Newspaper reported on January 10 that the DI (Demand-Supply Index), a measure of rice market balance, reached a record high of 80. This figure indicates a critical shortfall in rice availability, surpassing even last year's levels when supermarket shelves were emptied.

Media Scandal Deepens as Fuji TV Faces New Allegations

The resignation of popular television personality Masahiro Nakai has sent shockwaves through the Japanese entertainment industry. Announced through his agency’s website, Nakai apologized, stating, “I’m truly sorry for this sudden farewell.” His decision to retire has sparked debates over whether this marks the conclusion of ongoing controversies surrounding him and the television networks involved.

Aquarium Director Caught in Endangered Turtle Scandal

Former executives of the Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, including a former director and three others, have been referred to prosecutors on suspicion of fraudulently receiving management fees by misreporting the number of endangered turtles in their care.

Man Stabs Three Near Nagano Station

Three people were attacked near JR Nagano Station at around 8 p.m., leaving a man in his 40s in a state of cardiopulmonary arrest and two others hospitalized.

Inoue Unfazed as Title Defense Draws Near

Naoya Inoue, the unified world super bantamweight champion across four major boxing organizations, will face Kim Ye-jun, the World Boxing Organization's (WBO) 11th-ranked contender, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo on January 24th.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Discover The SECRETS of HIROSHIMA - 3 Day Japan Travel Itinerary

DON'T make this mistake when visiting Hiroshima, most travels only visit two attractions which is depriving yourself of so many hidden and undiscovered GEMS of Hiroshima that it definitely deserves more than just an overnight stay! (Inaka Adventure)

Japan's First Airport Karaoke

Saga Airport has become the first in Japan to introduce karaoke booths, offering passengers a unique way to enjoy their wait before flights.

Riding in a luxury sightseeing train's Japanese-style private room

This time, we experienced a Japanese-style private room on the Kintetsu Express “Shimakaze”. Please join us as we experience a journey in a luxurious space that combines Japanese-style design and comfort. (ITSUKA JAPAN)

Tokyo Cedar Pollen Season Starts Record Early Since 1985

Cedar pollen dispersal in Tokyo began on January 8th, marking the earliest start since monitoring began in 1985, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Off the Beaten Path in Nara: Where History Meets Nature – Discover Asuka & Yoshino

Discover the hidden gems of Nara as I explore the historical charm of Asuka and the natural beauty of Yoshino. From ancient temples to stunning mountain scenery, this journey of where old capital used to be takes you off the beaten path to uncover Japan’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. (Tokyo Kenchan)