Travel

Japan's Best Sakura in Full Bloom

HOKKAIDO, Apr 29 (News On Japan) - Regarded as one of Japan's finest, the cherry blossom-lined Niijukken Road in Shinhidaka, Hokkaido, has reached its peak bloom during Golden Week.

A straight road approximately 7 kilometers long, Niijukken Road is lined with about 2,200 trees, including Ezo Mountain and Miyama Cherry, flanking either side. Full bloom was declared on Saturday.

The Shizunai Sakura Festival will continue until May 3rd, offering a stunning display of springtime beauty to locals and visitors alike.

Source: TBS

Final Preparations Underway for Overseas Pavilions at Expo

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Cyber Bill Passes Japan's Lower House

A bill to introduce a proactive cyber defense system, allowing preemptive measures against cyberattacks, was passed by the Lower House on April 8th with majority support from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, and others.

Trump Praises Ohtani as Dodgers Visit the White House

The Dodgers, winners of last year’s World Series, paid a courtesy visit to President Trump at the White House on April 7th, with Shohei Ohtani, 30, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, 26, among the participating players.

Methane Gas Detected Again at Osaka-Kansai Expo Site

Methane gas was detected at levels exceeding safety standards in the western area of the Osaka-Kansai Expo site around 4 p.m. on April 6th, raising concerns due to the potential risk of explosion. Ventilation measures have since been implemented, bringing gas concentrations back below the threshold.

Bear Sightings in Hokkaido Surpass Last Year as Temperatures Rise

Bear activity is increasing in Hokkaido as spring temperatures rise, with sightings in 2025 already surpassing last year's total at over 100 cases.

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Atami’s New Lodging Tax Aimed at Foreign Visitors Draws Criticism from Japanese

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