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.

Japan's Academics Demand Independence

Scholars affiliated with the Science Council of Japan formed a symbolic human chain in front of the National Diet building on May 8th, calling for revisions to the government’s proposed reform bill targeting the council’s structure, as deliberations enter their final phase in the Diet.

Inside Japan’s Failing Sewers

Across Japan, road collapses have been occurring with increasing frequency, often blamed on aging infrastructure. In one recent incident in Ashioshi, Saitama Prefecture, a truck was swallowed by a gaping sinkhole.

Two Men Arrested for Breaking Into Tokyo School

Two men who were arrested for forcibly entering an elementary school in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, and assaulting staff members have been identified as friends of a student's mother. One of the suspects denies the charges, claiming he was only brushing people off after being restrained.

Cherry Blossoms Reach Final Stage, Six Days Earlier Than Average

Cherry blossoms have begun to bloom in Wakkanai and Kushiro, marking the near completion of Japan's cherry blossom front for 2025.

Lack of Sleep After Golden Week May Signal Sleep Disorder, Experts Warn

As many in Japan returned to work or school on May 7th following the Golden Week holiday, a growing number are reporting post-holiday fatigue and sleep deprivation—conditions that experts warn may point to deeper sleep-related issues.

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IOC President Bach Welcomes Japan’s Future Olympic Bids

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, who is set to retire in June, gave an interview in Tokyo on May 8th, where he expressed a positive stance toward Japan’s potential bid to host future Olympic Games, saying such a move would be "highly welcomed" if the conditions are right.

Softball Teams Light Up Koshien in Historic First Match

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the national tournament, a high school softball game was held for the first time at Hanshin Koshien Stadium.

Hokkaido Horse Races Canceled for Third Straight Week as Equine Influenza Spreads

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German Adventurers Run Across Japan in Grueling 70-Kilometer Daily Challenge

A group of German adventurers have launched an ambitious trek across Japan as part of what they call "Cybox Season 25," documenting their journey from the northernmost tip of the country in a vlog-style diary rich with cultural observations, physical endurance, and personal reflection.

Rising Stars Debut in Top Division Ahead of Summer Basho

The Japan Sumo Association announced the rankings for the Summer Tournament, which will open at Ryogoku Kokugikan on May 11th. Ozeki Oonosato, who secured his third championship during the Spring Tournament, will aim for his first promotion to yokozuna, starting from the top position on the East side.