New Japanese Passport Applications to Go Online

TOKYO, Dec 22 (News On Japan) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unveiled a new passport design set to be issued from March next year. The new system will allow online applications not only for renewals but also for new passport requests. Submitting an original family register certificate will no longer be required for online applications.

The updated passport incorporates significantly enhanced anti-forgery measures. The page with the holder's photo will now be made of plastic and embedded with an IC chip.

However, the time required from application to issuance will be longer than before. For domestic applicants, the process will take approximately two weeks. The Ministry advises applicants to "apply well in advance." The new passports will be issued for applications submitted and accepted starting March 24, 2025.

Source: TBS

Fuji TV Chairman Apologizes Over Handling of Scandal

During an employee briefing held at 5:30 p.m. today, Fuji TV Chairman Kano expressed his apology, stating, "President Minato and I have been leading the efforts, but there were deficiencies in our judgments."

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.

Fuji TV Faces Backlash as Allegations Surface Online

YouTuber Aoki Kanon, a former announcer, has revealed allegations of harassment by a senior official at Fuji TV. A post she shared on the social media platform X just a week ago drew widespread attention, garnered over 5 million views in just two days, sparking public outrage.

Inoue Unfazed as Title Defense Draws Near

Naoya Inoue, the unified world super bantamweight champion across four major boxing organizations, will face Kim Ye-jun, the World Boxing Organization's (WBO) 11th-ranked contender, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo on January 24th.

Nissan to Cut 9,000 Jobs, Focuses Layoffs on Production Sites

Nissan Motor is implementing a workforce reduction plan involving 9,000 employees, with over 70% of the cuts concentrated in production sites, according to a JNN investigation.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Japan's First Airport Karaoke

Saga Airport has become the first in Japan to introduce karaoke booths, offering passengers a unique way to enjoy their wait before flights.

Riding in a luxury sightseeing train's Japanese-style private room

This time, we experienced a Japanese-style private room on the Kintetsu Express “Shimakaze”. Please join us as we experience a journey in a luxurious space that combines Japanese-style design and comfort. (ITSUKA JAPAN)

Tokyo Cedar Pollen Season Starts Record Early Since 1985

Cedar pollen dispersal in Tokyo began on January 8th, marking the earliest start since monitoring began in 1985, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Off the Beaten Path in Nara: Where History Meets Nature – Discover Asuka & Yoshino

Discover the hidden gems of Nara as I explore the historical charm of Asuka and the natural beauty of Yoshino. From ancient temples to stunning mountain scenery, this journey of where old capital used to be takes you off the beaten path to uncover Japan’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. (Tokyo Kenchan)

Kyoto Train Transformed Into Fashion Runway

Unused hotel linens, such as sheets, were transformed into wedding dresses for a sustainability-themed fashion show held on Sunday.

Ginza New Year Window Displays Walking Tour

Ginza has transformed into a winter wonderland with its stunning new window displays for the season. (Video Street View Japan)

Kyoto City to Raise Accommodation Tax to Maximum 10,000 Yen

Kyoto City’s accommodation tax, introduced in 2018, is likely to see an increase, with the maximum rate potentially rising to 10,000 yen.

Exploring Kyushu's Four Largest Cities | Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Kitakyushu

Kyushu, Japan's southern-most main island, offers rich culture, local delicacies and beautiful natural landscapes, however, many international tourists don't make it here. In this video, we go on a 4-day trip to introduce the island's four largest cities. (japan-guide.com)

< 2 3 4 5 >