Society

The SHOCKING Truth About 'Oshi' Life in Japan

Nov 02 (Japanese Comedian Meshida) - In Japan, idol culture is a huge part of the entertainment world. At live concerts, various teenage idol groups perform one after another, each with fans eagerly awaiting their favorite act.

Oshikatsu, also known as “oshi activities,” originally referred to fans devoting time and energy to support their favorite idols. This has evolved to become a way of life for many, bringing fans purpose and even friendships through shared support. While these fans expect nothing in return, they find joy in being there for their idols. However, for some, this dedication can border on obsession.

Snake Causes Shinkansen Power Outage

The Tokaido Shinkansen resumed service at 7:00 p.m. on April 30th after a power outage forced a suspension of operations, but major delays continued to affect the timetable.

Shizuoka Prefecture to Adopt Year-Round Cool Biz

Shizuoka Governor Heita Suzuki announced on April 30th that the prefecture will implement its “Cool Biz” dress code throughout the year starting in May 2025. Previously limited to the warmer months from May through October, the initiative encourages relaxed attire for government workers, such as going without neckties, to create a more comfortable working environment.

Vietnam Pavilion Opens 17 Days Late

Vietnam’s national pavilion finally opened on April 30th -- 17 days behind schedule -- after delays in exhibit preparations kept it closed during the April 13th launch of the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Rules Tightened for Parental Leave Benefits

The rules surrounding benefits for parents on childcare leave were tightened in April due to concerns over the practice known as 'aiming to miss nursery placement.'

Last Chance to See Hokkaido’s Fabled Bridge as Collapse Looms

The "phantom bridge," a Hokkaido heritage site in the Tokachi region known for appearing and disappearing with the seasons, has begun drawing visitors again in 2025 as its elusive form grows increasingly fragile.

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Dispute Over Meal Cost Leaves One Dead in Western Japan

Two men were stabbed early Wednesday morning in Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture, leaving one dead in what police believe was a dispute over a restaurant bill.

US Marine Indicted for Sexual Assault Inside Okinawa Base Toilet

The Naha District Public Prosecutors Office has indicted a 27-year-old U.S. Marine on charges of non-consensual sexual intercourse and assault after he allegedly attacked a woman inside a toilet cubicle at a U.S. military base in Okinawa.

Small Plane Engine Failure Forces Emergency Landing in Lake

A small aircraft made an emergency landing in a lake in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture on April 29th, leaving one man seriously injured and another with minor injuries.

Is It a Cat Adoption Scam?

A growing number of cases have been reported in which individuals offering to transfer cats for free on social media platforms demand payments, leading to suspicions of fraud.

Japan's population shrinking as marriage and birth rates plummet

Japan's population has been shrinking for 15 years, with huge implications for the country’s economy, national defense, and culture. Now, policymakers are working to boost birth rates. (60 Minutes)

Car Driven by 100-Year-Old Man Falls 10 Meters into River

A 100-year-old man driving a passenger car fell approximately 10 meters into a riverbed in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, but survived without life-threatening injuries.

Prince Akishino Attends Memorial Mass for Pope Francis

The memorial mass for Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, was held in Tokyo, with Prince Akishino attending on behalf of the Emperor.

Japan's Prisons Shift Focus from Harsh Discipline to Inmate Rehabilitation

Japan's prison system is undergoing a major shift as it prepares to introduce "confinement punishment," moving away from traditional penal servitude that emphasized punishment toward a new focus on rehabilitation.

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