Sports

Paris Olympians Enjoy 'Autumn Garden Party'

Oct 30 (News On Japan) - The Autumn Garden Party hosted by the Emperor and Empress on Wednesday saw lively conversations and laughter, especially with Haruka Kitaguchi, the javelin throw gold medalist.

The event celebrated notable guests, including Paris Olympics medalists and distinguished figures across various fields, with over 1,400 attendees.

The Emperor and Empress's daughter, Princess Aiko, attended her second garden party, wearing traditional attire for the first time. Joined by her sister, Princess Kako, they shared a moment of lighthearted conversation.

In discussions with the Olympians, the Emperor congratulated Kitaguchi on her initial 65-meter throw that secured her top position, while the Empress discussed pressures and achievements with judoka Hifumi Abe. Abe shared his determination to win gold, particularly after his sister Uta Abe’s early loss in the games. Similarly, conversations with the men’s gymnastics team highlighted the importance of their close teamwork and mutual trust, which contributed to their stunning comeback to win gold.

When speaking to skateboarder Yuto Horigome, the Emperor jokingly remarked on skateboarding across a grassy slope, to which Horigome responded with appreciation, imagining how thrilling it would be to skate in such a unique setting.

Osaka Expands Indoor Smoking Ban

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

New Recruits Across Japan Mark First Day as Working Adults

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

Death Toll Could Reach 298,000 in Nankai Trough Megaquake

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

Tokyo's Cherry Blossoms Bloom Early This Year

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

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