Travel

Tokyo Disneyland's Space Mountain to Close in July

TOKYO, Apr 09 (News On Japan) - Tokyo Disneyland's beloved ride, Space Mountain, is gearing up for its final event before temporarily closing its doors in July 2024. Having debuted alongside the opening of Tokyo Disneyland in 1983, Space Mountain boasts a 41-year history as one of the park's most cherished attractions.

The current iteration of Space Mountain is scheduled to close by the end of July 2024, with plans to reopen in 2027 as a revamped version of itself. As a special event leading up to the closure, a lottery will be held for visitors from April 9 to June 16, offering a chance to win priority boarding passes for the attraction's last day on July 31.

Visitors shared their thoughts, with one saying, "No matter how many times I ride it, the sensation is always incredible," and another expressing hope for an even more enjoyable experience post-renovation.

In addition to the special event, commemorative merchandise will be available for purchase starting April 8, promising fans a chance to reminisce about their fond memories of the attraction.

The reborn Space Mountain will feature indoor settings and incorporate new special effects, promising to offer a refreshed and exciting experience for its visitors.

Source: FNN

BOJ Raises Policy Rate to 0.5 Percent

The Bank of Japan (BOJ) has decided to raise its policy interest rate from an annualized 0.25 percent to 0.5 percent. This marks the first rate hike in six months and appears aimed at correcting the historically weak yen.

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.

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