Travel

Yamahoko Parade Held in Kyoto

KYOTO, Jul 25 (News On Japan) - A procession of elaborately decorated yamahoko floats took place on July 24th in central Kyoto as part of the latter half of the Gion Festival, known as the Ato-matsuri. The parade featured 11 floats, each adorned with luxurious decorations, making their way through the streets on a route opposite to that of the earlier procession held on July 17th.

Under the strong summer sun, large crowds gathered along the route, waving and capturing photos as the elegant floats passed by, adding color and tradition to the historic city's summer.

Source: Kyodo

Second Bird Flu Case of the Season, Massive Culling Underway

An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a poultry farm in Eniwa City, Hokkaido, prompting authorities to begin culling operations on Sunday afternoon.

Japan Faces Legal Hurdles in Deploying Military for Bear Control

Japan’s worsening bear problem has prompted calls for national intervention, but legal and operational barriers have complicated the government’s response. In 2025, bear attacks have reached record levels, leaving 12 people dead—double the previous high of six fatalities in 2023.

Moths Threaten Kyoto’s Famous Bamboo Shoots

Kyoto’s prized bamboo shoots, a seasonal delicacy that graces dining tables each spring, are facing an unprecedented crisis this year. The culprit is the Chinese bamboo moth (Sinachiku nomeiga), whose larvae feed on bamboo leaves, weakening the plants and severely reducing harvest yields.

Shibuya Crowds Subdued in Rain Soaked Halloween

Halloween Eve in Shibuya still drew a festive atmosphere, with people gathering in costume and enjoying the night. Tokyo police deployed several hundred officers, including the well-known “DJ police,” to manage the crowds and prevent congestion at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

Takaichi and Xi Hold 10-Second Handshake

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood side by side before the cameras on October 31st at 5 p.m. for a moment that drew intense attention. “Hello, please this way,” said Xi as the two leaders exchanged a handshake lasting roughly 10 seconds in front of their national flags. Takaichi’s expression was stiff at first but softened slightly into a faint smile, while Xi’s face remained largely unchanged.

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Autumn Foliage Peaks at Nikko’s Irohazaka

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JAPAN'S HIDDEN GEM | IRIOMOTE (OKINAWA)

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Illuminated Rock Formations Bring Magic to Wakayama Coast

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Top Autumn Foliage Spots in Hokkaido

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Sense of Crisis in World Heritage Shirakawa Village: ‘Never a Year with So Many Bears Before’

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