Hitachi, Ltd. will launch an initiative to use artificial intelligence to support the efficient maintenance and operation of the Self-Defense Forces’ defense equipment.

The company will develop a system in which AI is used to analyze data collected from sensors installed on vehicles and naval vessels to detect signs of failure.

From as early as fiscal 2026, the company will work toward commercializing the envisaged system, hoping to secure continuous revenue after supplying it.

If the system is realized, it will help reduce the burden on SDF personnel involved in maintenance, providing significant benefits for the SDF, which face labor shortages.

Such a technology-based system is believed to be rarely used in helping to maintain defense equipment.

Currently, some defense equipment is routinely inspected by SDF personnel, with manufacturers responding when abnormalities are found.

Hitachi will apply its business expertise in maintaining and operating infrastructure using AI, an field in which the company excels in the civilian sector. It will create a system in which AI analyzes data such as operational rates and vibrations obtained through sensors, providing alerts before failures occur.

In light of the increasingly severe security environment in Asia, the government plans to spend ¥43 trillion on defense over the five years from fiscal 2023.

However, due to population decline and competition with private companies, the number of people joining the SDF remains low.

The fiscal 2023 figure for recruits was only about 50% of the target, the lowest on record. In fiscal 2024, it only reached 65% of the target.

The Defense Ministry has indicated a policy to reduce manpower in operations by using AI and other technologies.

In the defense equipment sector, Hitachi handles the SDF’s information systems, sonars installed on naval vessels as well as specialized vehicles for ammunition resupply.

Hitachi’s contract with the Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency totaled ¥79.8 billion in fiscal 2024, about 3.5 times the amount in fiscal 2022.

With orders expected to continue increasing, Hitachi is reinforcing its development and production capabilities, such as by increasing employees in related businesses by 40%.
 
 

Business leaders in Japan made positive statements about continuing wage increases during a New Year event in Tokyo on Tuesday, with many hoping to achieve wage hikes at or above last year's results in this year's shuntō spring wage negotiations.

Kensuke Hosomi, president of convenience store chain operator FamilyMart, said, "We want to surpass last year's level" in the upcoming shuntō.

Last year, the average wage increase rate at major Japanese companies was 5.39%, exceeding 5% for the second consecutive year, according to a tally by the Japan Business Federation, or Keidanren, the country's biggest business lobby.

Keita Ishii, president of trading house Itochu, stressed the need to raise wage levels to secure human resources, saying, "We need to make Japan an ideal choice for foreign talent."

One of the key challenges in the upcoming shuntō is to extend the trend of significant wage increases beyond large companies.

"The (Japanese) economy will not be able to survive without small and midsize companies," electronics giant Fujitsu's president, Takahito Tokita, said.

The event was organized by Keidanren, the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Japan Association of Corporate Executives, or Keizai Doyukai.

"We will aim to further establish (the momentum for wage increases)," Keidanren Chairman Yoshinobu Tsutsui told a news conference on Tuesday.

Ken Kobayashi, head of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, explained that the desire to raise wages is strong among small and midsize companies. He urged the government and the Bank of Japan to "defeat inflation."

Keizai Doyukai Chairman Akio Yamaguchi remarked, "If evolving artificial intelligence is combined with robots, high added value can be created." He advocated for productivity improvements to drive wage increases and growth investment.
 
 

Former Taiwan Premier Frank Hsieh has been appointed chairman of Taiwan's liaison organization with Japan.

Hsieh, former head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, the post equivalent to ambassador, said on Facebook that he assumed the position as chairman of the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association on Tuesday.

Having studied at Kyoto University in Japan, Hsieh is well-versed in Japanese affairs. He served as Taiwan premier from 2005 to 2006.
 
 

Prime Minister of Japan Sanae Takaichi pledged on Tuesday to drive the country's economic growth, speaking at a New Year's event hosted mainly by Jiji Press.

"We will bring back a strong economy," Takaichi said, expressing eagerness to "push all the growth switches" to enhance Japan's technological presence worldwide. She promised to "take all possible measures," including tax reforms, to promote investment, research, and development activities to achieve this goal.

Sanae Takaichi also outlined plans for crisis management investments in areas such as food and energy security and cybersecurity.

"There are untapped glittering technologies in Japan," she said, stressing the importance of boosting the country's international competitiveness.

"We will definitely make the Japanese archipelago strong and prosperous," she said. "We will push Japan to the heights of the world again."

Earlier, Takaichi already pledged to make Japan "strong and prosperous" through reforms to address various domestic and global challenges.
 
 

Volunteers from the Children and Families Agency have launched an awareness-raising campaign to alleviate the anxiety of children who struggle to talk about their problems with adults.

The campaign focuses on creating an environment in which children can consult with adults comfortably, ensuring they are not left alone when faced with major issues.

"We want them to gain experience in consultation with someone, even if it's a small problem," an agency official said.

The number of reported cases of truancy and bullying, as well as the number of suicides among elementary, junior high and high school students, is on the rise, indicating that many children face difficulties.

In response to concerns that some children have reservations about discussing their issues with adults, the agency established a project team of about 30 officials in autumn 2024 to listen to children's voices.

Through exchanges of opinions with children and support groups across the country, the group has created cartoons and videos promoting the message that "consultation is neither shameful nor weak." The contents are available on the agency's website.

At a match of the Japan Professional Football League, or J. League, held in the city of Chofu, Tokyo, in December 2025, the project team ran a booth in cooperation with FC Tokyo, a club in the J. League.

Children were invited to indicate which familiar adults they usually turn to for consultation by placing a ball in boxes labeled "family," "schoolteacher" and others.

They were also asked to choose other adults they could consult with, from options such as cram school teachers and local people. The aim was to lower the psychological barrier to counseling by bringing up the topic of talking about problems.

A first-grade boy, among many elementary school students and families who visited the booth, said, "I recently had a fight with a friend, and I consulted with my family and teacher." One mother, who was with her daughter, said, "You always talk to me a lot."

This month, the project team will visit junior high and high schools to offer classes to listen to students' concerns. "I want to tell students that it's OK to talk about their worries," a junior staffer said.
 
 

 

 

Premium "Sato Nishiki" cherries from the northeastern Japan prefecture of Yamagata fetched record prices at the year's first auctions on Monday, including 1.8 million yen ($11,500) for a box at a Tokyo market, or more than 26,000 yen per cherry.

An auction in the city of Tendo in Yamagata, Japan's main cherry-producing prefecture, also sold a 68-cherry box for a record 1.55 million yen.

Cherries typically peak in early summer, but growers have advanced the harvest using "ultra-forced" cultivation, which chills trees to simulate winter before keeping them in greenhouses.

Kenichi Mannen, deputy sales manager at JA Tendo Foods, which won the top bid in Tendo, said, "I heard management was tough this year due to unstable weather, and we want to work hard to deliver products that make customers happy."

JA Tendo Foods plans to sell the cherries online.
 
 

Some medical institutions in Japan have begun introducing facility dogs to accompany hospitalized children during treatment and rehabilitation, easing the anxiety of being away from their families.

With high costs posing a challenge, some hospitals are turning to crowdfunding to introduce facility dogs, widely used in the United States and other countries, with retrievers being the preferred breed due to their gentle nature.

Unlike therapy dogs, which visit hospitals and interact with patients on a limited basis, facility dogs are assigned to hospitals and work with handlers who have completed specialist training.

The dogs accompany children undergoing surgery and assist with rehabilitation through play.

According to Shine On! Kids, a certified nonprofit organization in Tokyo's Chuo Ward, a facility dog was first introduced in Japan in 2010 by Shizuoka Children's Hospital.
 
 

The phenomenal blockbuster film has delighted the classical performing arts industry, which hopes to expand its fan base.

Last year’s Japanese blockbuster film “Kokuho” has inspired people not only to flock to kabuki theaters but also to start taking lessons in nihonbuyo traditional Japanese dance.

The phenomenon has delighted the classical performing arts industry, which hopes to expand its fan base.

Based on Shuichi Yoshida’s novel and directed by Lee Sang-il, “Kokuho” depicts the life of a man born into a yakuza family who dedicates his life to kabuki alongside a fellow actor, who is the heir to a kabuki family.

It has become a massive hit since its release in June 2025, breaking the box office record for a Japanese live-action film.

It has already been released in South Korea and Taiwan and is scheduled to hit theaters in North America this year.



Creating buzz

In October, the Pontocho Kaburenjo theater in Kyoto’s famous Pontocho alley, which is featured in the film, hosted the annual Suimeikai dance performance.

Tickets were sold out for three of the event’s four days, and standing-room tickets, which are usually only sold on the final day, were sold on all days to accommodate demand. Women in their 20s and 30s made up a large portion of the audience.

“We’re feeling the ‘Kokuho’ effect,” the event’s organizer said.

Etsuko Fujima, a master instructor of the Yokohama-based Fujima school of nihonbuyo has received about 10 inquiries for trial lessons from people aged 20s to 50s who said they were “influenced by the movie.” Two of them have started taking lessons.

Fujima, who serves as director of The Nihonbuyo Association in Tokyo, said the movie “has become an excellent opportunity for many people to discover kabuki and nihonbuyo and understand their appeal.”


Interest in live kabuki

The number of people going to see kabuki has also increased. More than 10,000 spectators who attended shows at Tokyo’s Kabukiza Theatre in or after July last year are estimated to have been first-time visitors, according to Shochiku Co.

A backstage tour of Kyoto’s Minamiza Theatre organized between July 26 and Aug. 11 saw all five daily slots fill up within days of opening, prompting the organizer to sell additional slots.

Since the October program, Minamiza has featured “Ninin Fuji Musume” (“Two Wisteria Maidens”) and “Sagi Musume” (“The Heron Maiden”), both of which are seen in “Kokuho.” At the theater, young viewers were observed talking about the play after the curtain fell.

A 29-year-old company employee from Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, saw kabuki in December for the first time after being inspired by the movie.

“The story [in the kabuki] was fascinating and more enjoyable than I thought,” she said. “Knowing that the techniques being performed right before my eyes have been passed down for centuries made me understand the true power of traditional performing arts.”

A 52-year-old female usher who has worked at Minamiza for about 30 years has witnessed a change in the audience since the film’s release.

“I’ve received inquiries over the phone saying like, ‘This is my first time [watching kabuki]. What should I do?’” she said.

In March, Minamiza plans to stage “Sonezaki Shinju Monogatari” (“The Lovers’ Suicide at Sonezaki”). The performance is based on the classic joruri play “Sonezaki Shinju” (also titled “The Love Suicides at Sonezaki” in English), which is performed in a key scene of “Kokuho.”

Performances on some days are already sold out, thanks to the “Kokuho” craze.
 
 

While no tsunami threat was issued, strong shaking in western Japan may cause short-term local disruption, with markets watching for damage updates or transport interruptions. Summary:

• Magnitude ~6.2–6.3 quake hits Shimane Prefecture
• Epicentre located in eastern Shimane
• Intensity recorded at upper-5 on Japan scale
• No tsunami warning issued
• Authorities monitoring for aftershocks
• Depth 10km

A strong earthquake struck western Japan Tuesday, hitting Shimane Prefecture with a preliminary magnitude of around 6.2–6.3, according to Japanese authorities.

The quake was centred in the eastern part of the prefecture and was felt widely across the region, though no tsunami warning was issued.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the earthquake occurred in the evening local time and registered an upper-5 intensity on Japan’s seismic intensity scale in parts of Shimane.

National broadcaster NHK reported that while shaking was strong enough to disrupt daily activity, there were no immediate reports of major damage or casualties.

Japan uses a unique seismic intensity system that measures how strongly the ground shakes at a specific location, rather than the total energy released by an earthquake.

The scale runs from 1 to 7 and is designed to reflect the real-world impact on people, buildings and infrastructure. An intensity of upper-5 (known as “5-strong”) typically means it is difficult to move without holding onto something, unsecured furniture may topple, and minor structural damage is possible, particularly to older buildings.

This differs from the magnitude scale, such as the moment magnitude used internationally, which measures the earthquake’s overall size. As a result, a single earthquake can have one magnitude but varying intensity readings depending on distance from the epicentre, depth and local ground conditions.

The quake was initially reported with a preliminary magnitude of 6.3 by Japan’s National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience, later revised slightly lower.

Authorities confirmed that the depth and offshore risk profile did not warrant a tsunami alert, easing concerns along coastal areas.

Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active countries, sitting atop several major tectonic plates. Its early-warning systems and building standards are designed to mitigate the risks from frequent earthquakes, though events of this size still pose disruption risks to transport, utilities and local communities.

Officials continue to assess the situation, urging residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks.

Let's hope there are no injuries.
 
 

 

Japanese ingredients, particularly eggs and milk, are increasingly being promoted to meet growing demand from foreign visitors.

A 2024 survey on inbound consumption trends by the Japan Tourism Agency found that the most common expectation before visiting Japan, cited by 82.2% of respondents, was eating Japanese food.

The number of foreign visitors to Japan has been on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic subsided, and their sharing of consumption experiences on social media is expected to further boost demand.

To tap into this trend, the Japan Poultry Association has partnered with ABC Cooking Studio in Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward to offer egg cooking classes for inbound tourists.

The classes feature tamagoyaki, or Japanese rolled omelet, which has gained popularity through being served at sushi restaurants and ryokan Japanese-style inns, as well as raw egg on rice, which is uncommon in many countries.

Many people are interested in how tamagoyaki is made because of its distinctive layered appearance. Square-shaped omelet pans used to make tamagoyaki are rare and popular overseas.

The recipe for raw egg on rice used in the cooking classes whips the egg white into a meringue instead of leaving it raw, making it easier to eat even for those who dislike the texture of uncooked eggs.

The milk industry is also targeting foreign visitors to expand demand. During the year-end and New Year holidays, the National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations, or Zen-Noh, served local milk as a welcome drink at 20 Resol hotels operated across Japan by Resol Holdings.

The company, based in the city of Mobara, Chiba Prefecture, is engaged in resort development and other businesses.

The holiday season typically sees a decline in milk consumption due to the absence of school lunches, while the hotel industry experiences peak season, attracting many foreign visitors.

At Resol hotels, it is common to see guests purchasing milk to enjoy in their rooms, reflecting its popularity. The welcome drink initiative was well-received also during the summer holiday season.
 
 

People clad in ancient Japanese court outfits have performed a time-honored ball-kicking game to mark the New Year at a shrine in the western city of Kyoto.

The custom called kemari is said to have been played by noblemen in the Heian Period that lasted from the late 8th to the 12th century.

Kemari players use a white deerskin ball measuring about 20 centimeters in diameter. They try to keep the ball in the air while passing it among themselves using their feet.

It is considered preferable to give passes using only the instep of the right foot in ways that allow receivers to easily control the ball.

A local group of people working to preserve kemari plays the game at Shimogamo Shrine on January 4 every year to pray for peace and happiness. The Shinto shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Eight members of the group wore colorful attire and performed kemari outdoors on Sunday.

Spectators applauded when players showcased skillful techniques to send up the ball from near the ground.

A local audience member said she felt refreshed to see the players enjoy kemari. The 19-year-old added that she sensed the new year had begun.

A 70-year-old spectator said he felt history in action and that he hopes he can stay in good health throughout 2026.
 

 

A multi-vehicle crash involving 12 cars on a road in eastern Japan killed one man early Sunday, after tea leaves spilled from a moving truck causing vehicles behind it to skid, police said.

The accident took place on a two-lane road in Sano, Tochigi Prefecture, after the tea leaves scattered over a 500-meter stretch of the road.

Four people were taken to hospital, and one was later confirmed dead. The injuries of the three others were not life-threatening.

The dead man, a 78-year-old from Saitama Prefecture, was hit by an oncoming vehicle after he stepped out of his truck, according to the police.
The truck that was carrying the tea leaves was traveling eastward from Ashikaga toward Sano.

A man believed to have been involved in the accident made an emergency call to police at around 5:40 a.m. The exact time of the crash remains unclear.

The road was temporarily closed following the accident. Workers used heavy machinery and shovels to remove the wet tea leaves that had stuck to the road.
 
 

Japan's government and ruling coalition may consider a possible review of the country's three nonnuclear principles during work to update its three key national security-related documents within this year.

The principles prevent Japan from possessing, producing or letting in nuclear weapons.

As Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who has been negative about the rule of not permitting the entry of nuclear arms into the country, is eager for the review, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, have also shown readiness to consider a possible revision.

Heated discussions are expected, however, with some in the government opposing changing the nonnuclear principles, which Japan, the only country in the world to have been attacked with nuclear weapons, has firmly maintained as a key national policy.

At a parliamentary debate among political party leaders last November, Tetsuo Saito, chief of Komeito, the LDP's former ruling coalition partner and now in the opposition camp, urged Takaichi to withdraw her intention to review the nonnuclear principles.
 
 

 

Across Japan, foreign workers are keeping factories, fisheries, and workshops afloat. But as wages rise in neighboring countries, many business owners worry that Japan may no longer be an attractive destination for this workforce.

In Choshi, home to a large fishing port in Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo, one long-established cannery offers a glimpse into both Japan's dependence on foreign workers and efforts being made to retain them.

Ho Thi Thuy Nhung, 38, begins work at 8 a.m. on the assembly line. Her job rotates every few hours: operating a machine that cuts off fish heads and tails, removing foreign objects by hand, and carefully lifting fish from a grilling machine. Each task requires focus and precision.

"When I first started, I was confused because there were so many steps," she says. "But I learned quickly. The work changes often, and once I got used to it, I actually found it enjoyable."

Nhung is a Vietnamese technical intern trainee. She came to Japan last summer, leaving behind her husband and their eight-year-old son. Of the 80 people employed at the cannery, 16 are technical intern trainees from Vietnam.

Japan is replacing its controversial technical intern training program. Established in 1993, it has been accused of being a vehicle for obtaining cheap labor and drawn criticism for harsh working conditions and human rights abuses. A new system is to be launched in 2027.

"Choshi's main industry could not exist without foreign workers," says Yoshihisa Tawara, president of Tawara Canning Co., where Nhung works. "From fishing and unloading to wholesale and processing, they support every stage."

Choshi is not unique. Across Japan, many regional businesses rely on foreign labor to survive. To remain a destination of choice, business owners say companies must rethink how they welcome and support these workers.

Nhung decided to work in Japan for economic reasons. In Vietnam, even after working 14 hours a day, her monthly take-home pay was about 80,000 yen ($511) -- barely enough to cover living costs. The long hours left her exhausted, with little time to spend with her son.

When her husband's income fell and their situation worsened, she decided to work in Japan. She borrowed about 600,000 yen from relatives to cover the costs and applied to the Choshi cannery because it accepted applicants over the age of 30, which she said is rare.

Leaving her family behind was not easy.

"Coming alone to a foreign country and leaving my young child was a very hard decision," she says. "But I want to work hard now so I can spend more time with him when I return, and so I can give him a good education."

After rent and other expenses, her monthly take-home pay in Japan is about 130,000 yen. She sends 80,000 to 90,000 yen home each month and lives frugally on the rest in a dormitory with other Vietnamese trainees.

Every evening, after work and a shower, she video chats with her child. That time has become her daily comfort.

Tawara Canning was founded 96 years ago and produces between 50,000 and 100,000 cans a day. Inside the factory, instructions on dress code and hygiene are posted in both Japanese and Vietnamese. The company has been accepting technical intern trainees for about 20 years.

At around 7:40 a.m., the trainees leave their dormitory and head to the factory, greeting Japanese employees along the way. Dressed in white work uniforms, they take their places on the line. Packing fish into cans requires speed and accuracy and is handled mainly by experienced workers, with Vietnamese and Japanese employees working side by side.

The company began accepting trainees as its Japanese workforce aged and labor shortages worsened. Tawara, 70, has traveled to Vietnam many times for recruitment interviews. Learning that many Vietnamese mothers were unable to find work, Tawara began actively recruiting women over 30 three years ago.

The company provides housing near the factory. It purchased a vacant three-story building that once housed a hardware store and renovated it, adding a kitchen and improving living conditions.

The company also encourages ties with the local community. About twice a month, trainees join police officers from Choshi Police Station on neighborhood crime-prevention patrols. As they walk through town, smiling and greeting residents, people offer words of encouragement.

The patrols began as a response to a shortage of volunteers due to the aging population. They have also helped trainees connect with local residents.
"No matter the nationality, greeting each other warmly creates bonds," Tawara says.

Tawara Canning has weathered many crises. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, some trainees at other companies returned home. When trainees at Tawara's factory expressed anxiety, Tawara told them, "I'll stay here with you." They returned to work the next day.

Despite years of building trust with his trainees, Tawara worries about the future.

"Japan's economy is stagnant, while Vietnam is growing fast," he says. "There are countries where hourly wages are higher than Japan's. I don't know if they will keep choosing Japan."

He also hears of trainees at nearby companies disappearing and reappearing at other workplaces through personal connections. Seeking better conditions is natural, he says, but some are treated as disposable labor.

"Once they decide to work for us, I want to take responsibility," Tawara says. "While they're here, I watch over them like a father."

About one-third of trainees renew their status and continue working. After the three-year training period, some return home, while others change their residence status to "specified skilled worker" and remain in Japan.

Nhung hopes to return to Vietnam after three years, if finances allow. "But if things are still difficult, I may have to stay," she says.

Her colleague, Nguyen Thi Kim Thuan, 40, switched to specified skilled worker status in August. She has a 20-year-old daughter and an 18-year-old son and sends about half her income home.

"I want my children to go to college," she says. "I couldn't." Her eldest child is now studying economics at university.

For many women over 30, renewing their contracts has become an increasingly common choice.

So what does it take for Japan to continue being chosen?

"It's not just 'labor' that comes here," Tawara says.

"They are people with their own lives and plans, and they have the right to choose. We want to respect those choices. And if they choose to stay, we want to keep supporting them, just as we always have."
 
 

North Korea launched at least two ballistic missiles eastward on Sunday that apparently fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, with no damage to ships or aircraft reported, according to the Japanese government, in the first such missile activity in almost two months.

The launches came hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung left for a four-day visit to China, where he is scheduled to hold summit talks on Monday with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

During their talks in Beijing, the two are expected to discuss issues including North Korea's nuclear activities.

The missiles were launched from North Korea's west coast at around 7:54 a.m. and 8:05 a.m., with both reaching a maximum altitude of around 50 kilometers and flying about 900 km and 950 km, respectively, the Defense Ministry said.

The South Korean military, meanwhile, said that North Korea launched "several" suspected ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan at around 7:50 a.m. from near Pyongyang that flew around 900 km.

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters at his ministry that Tokyo has strongly protested to Pyongyang over the launch, saying the nation's actions, including previous missile launches, "threaten the peace and security" of Japan, the region and the international community.

The two projectiles may have flown on irregular trajectories, Koizumi said, adding that Japan will "closely collaborate" with the United States and South Korea in analyzing the details of the latest missile launches.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed officials to gather information and swiftly provide necessary details to the public while ensuring the safety of vessels and planes and preparing for contingencies, her office said.

North Korea last fired a ballistic missile on Nov. 7, which Japan's Defense Ministry said was launched eastward from North Korea's west coast and flew over 450 km. The South Korean military has said it flew about 700 km.
 
 

 

With this sake warmer from Thanko, you can enjoy exquisite, sophisticated sips of sake right at your table.

Three temperature settings are available: body warm, hot and extra hot. The included sake cup has a wide opening, which enhances the aroma of the sake.

A light indicates the heating process and when it's done, so you'll never miss the perfect drinking moment. Since you simply add water and heat it, there's no need to boil water every time.

Another great feature is the intuitive touch panel, which eliminates the need for complicated operation.

Available for 9,980 yen on the Thanko website.
 
 

 

Japanese opposition leader Yoshihiko Noda on Sunday criticized the government's draft fiscal 2026 budget with record general-account spending of some 122.3 trillion yen.

"Larger spending could fuel inflation," Noda, chief of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, said at a press conference in the city of Ise, Mie Prefecture, central Japan. "The size (of the draft budget) is problematic," he added.

The government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi adopted the draft budget for fiscal 2026, which starts in April, late last month and will submit it to this year's ordinary session of the Diet, Japan's parliament, set to be convened Jan. 23. It aims to have the draft budget enacted by the March 31 end of fiscal 2025.

 

The CDP "aims to set itself apart from the Takaichi administration by (actively) submitting counterproposals" at the ordinary Diet session, Noda said. "We will focus on the strategy."

Citing the possibility of the prime minister dissolving the House of Representatives, the all-important lower chamber of the Diet, within this year for a snap general election, Noda said that his party will speed up the selection of its candidates for the potential Lower House election.
 
 

Japan's economy is likely to fall behind India's in 2026 to fifth place in the world, according to an International Monetary Fund's estimate, potentially diminishing the East Asian nation's presence on the global stage.

The subdued economic outlook makes Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's planned growth strategy, due out in the summer, all the more important to combat the burden from the country's shrinking population, economists say.

They call for productivity improvements and further efforts to tap into promising growth fields.

Japan's economy shrank for the first time in six quarters in the July-September period, due partly to weak exports amid higher U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, according to government data.

Economists expect the Japanese economy to return to a moderate recovery path in 2026, with uncertainty over U.S. trade policy easing following a bilateral deal.

Corporate profits are expected to remain resilient, providing impetus for capital spending and sustained wage hikes -- both key components of gross domestic product.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said that Japan's economy is projected to grow 0.9 percent this year, helped by expansionary fiscal policy under Takaichi and private consumption growth supported by real disposable income gains.

But Yusuke Koshiyama, senior economist at Mizuho Research & Technologies, says the economy is facing two major risk factors -- the yen's depreciation and recent diplomatic rows with China.

The Japanese currency has been under selling pressure as concerns mount about Japan's fiscal health due to Takaichi's expansionary spending plans including funding for inflation relief measures for households.

Noting that a weaker yen could raise import costs and accelerate inflation, Koshiyama said, "There is no denying the risk of an intensifying stagflation phase -- meaning high inflation amid low growth -- if inflationary pressure from the yen's depreciation offsets the effects of measures against rising prices."

Bilateral ties between Japan and China have recently been strained over Takaichi's remarks in November suggesting Tokyo could get involved in the event of an attack on Taiwan by Beijing, which considers the self-ruled island part of its territory.

With China urging its citizens to avoid visiting Japan, a potential drop in inbound tourism could dent Japan's growth, weighing on corporate earnings and, eventually, affecting investment and wage hikes, Koshiyama said.

The IMF's global outlook released in October showed that Japan is set to fall behind India in nominal gross domestic product on a U.S. dollar basis, two years after being overtaken by Germany.

Acknowledging that the projection largely stems from the yen's weakness, Shinichiro Kobayashi, principal economist at Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting, said a lower ranking "would directly lead to a decline in the Japan's influence in global trade, the global economy and world politics."

"The fundamental issue is that productivity has not risen, despite past administrations seeking to raise it through various growth strategies," Kobayashi said.

Attention is on a new growth strategy the Takaichi administration plans to put together in the summer as the premier seeks to build a robust economy through public and private sector investments.

Under her slogan of "responsible and proactive public finances," Takaichi has designated 17 strategic fields to be supported under the scheme, including shipbuilding, artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

Hideo Kumano, executive chief economist at Dai-ichi Life Research Institute, said Takaichi's plan overlooks several fields with strong growth potential, such as tourism, decarbonization, robotics and self-driving technologies.

"It would be desirable for the Takaichi administration to revise the contents gradually and flexibly," Kumano added.

Takahide Kiuchi, executive economist at Nomura Research Institute, called on the Takaichi administration to address the declining birthrate as part of its growth strategy.

"Companies will become pessimistic about the potential growth of the Japanese market, where the decline in population is set to accelerate, and curb domestic investment, which will lower labor productivity," Kiuchi said.

Aggressive fiscal spending involving more bond issuances like the upcoming stimulus package will reduce the funds available for future generations and eventually curb economic activity, lowering Japan's potential growth, he warned.

"Demonstrating a commitment to medium- and long-term fiscal consolidation will stem declining growth expectations among domestic companies and prevent a further erosion of Japan's economic presence, which will serve as one of the key growth strategies," he added.
 
 

Most major department stores were closed for the New Year, as they sought to give their employees a holiday break. When they reopened for their first sales of the year, shoppers flocked to the stores.

All Sogo & Seibu Co. stores were closed on New Year’s Day, and they reopened on Friday. Customers began lining up outside the Sogo Yokohama store in Yokohama around 4 a.m. on Friday, and about 10,000 people entered in the 30 minutes after opening. Sales were up by more than 50% from Jan. 1, 2025, as was the number of customers.

The store sold “lucky bags” for the holiday season that offer customers special experiences. One ¥59,000 package offered a stay at Hotel New Grand in Yokohama and afternoon tea at the historic hotel’s banquet hall.

Given the bite of rising prices, there were also more affordable options, including lucky bags priced at ¥2,026 and containing a men’s jacket.

“I buy lucky bags every year as gifts for my family. [The offerings in the] lucky bags are cheaper than usual, and I’m happy because they’re a good deal,” said a woman in her 70s from Yokohama, who bought food and other lucky bags.

Tobu Department Store Co. kept its outlets closed on Jan. 1 and 2, for the first time in 49 years; they opened on Jan. 3. Takashimaya Co. and Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co. also kept their stores closed on Jan. 1 and 2, as they did last year.

Similarly, Takashimaya’s Nihombashi store in Tokyo was closed on the first two days of the year, like last year. Takashimaya said monthly sales at the store in January last year still topped January 2024, when the store opened on Jan. 2.

“Our employees were able to return to their hometowns and have time to relax thanks to the days off, and we feel this had a positive effect [on our business],” the store’s deputy manager said.
 
 

A delegation of three major Japanese business lobbies has postponed its visit to China scheduled for January, amid a diplomatic row following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan.

The roughly 200-member delegation will not go ahead with its planned four-day trip to Beijing from Jan 20 after failing to secure a clear response to its request for a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the groups said.

Members include Yoshinobu Tsutsui, chairman of the Japanese Business Federation, the country's most powerful business lobby, Kosei Shindo, head of the Japan-China Economic Association, and Ken Kobayashi, chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The three groups informed their participants that the trip would be postponed on the grounds they would not "achieve substantial results," with no clear dates for when the trip would be rescheduled.

The postponement comes as Japan and China have been locked in a row since Takaichi's remarks in parliament in November that an attack on Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan.

The statement was widely interpreted as suggesting possible involvement of the Self-Defense Forces in support of the United States under the nation's right to collective self-defense.

Organized by the Japan-China Economic Association, the Beijing trip of the three business groups had been an almost annual event since fiscal 1975.

While the trip was postponed in September 2012 after the Japanese government's purchase of a significant part of the Senkaku Islands, which China claims, in the East China Sea from a private Japanese owner in that month, the business delegation visited China in March 2013.

When asked about the postponed trip, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesman Lin Jian said at a press conference in Beijing, "We urge the ruling authorities in Japan to...withdraw Prime Minister Takaichi's erroneous remarks in order to create the necessary conditions for normal exchanges between China and Japan."
 
 

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is among some 60 female lawmakers petitioning for more women's toilets in the parliament building to match their growing representation in the legislature.

A record 73 women were elected into the 465-seat Lower House in October 2024, exceeding the previous high of 54 in 2009.

One opposition lawmaker, Yasuko Komiyama, said there were often "long queues in front of the restroom... before plenary sessions start", and quoted another MP who said she had "given up" going to the toilet before a session began.

There is one female toilet with two cubicles near the plenary chamber, though the entire building itself has nine female toilets with 22 cubicles.
There are a total of 12 men's toilets with 67 stalls and urinals across the building, according to local media reports.

The current situation is "often inconvenient" because female staff and visitors also share the toilets, said Ms Komiyama from the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party.

"I want to raise my voice and prepare myself for the day when women hold more than 30% of [parliamentary seats] in the future," she wrote in a post on Facebook.

Japan's parliament building was built in 1936, a decade before women were given the right to vote in 1945. The first women were appointed to parliament in 1946.

The parliament building is a sprawling three-storey structure, with a central portion that is nine storeys high. The building occupies 13,356 square metres (143,800 sq ft), the equivalent of about two football pitches, with a total floor area of 53,464 square metres.

"If the administration is serious about promoting women's empowerment, I believe we can count on their understanding and cooperation," Komiyama said, according to Japanese media.

Chair of the Lower House committee Yasukazu Hamada has "expressed a willingness" to consider the proposal for more women's toilets, said an Asahi Shimbun report.

The Japanese government earlier set a target of having 30% of leadership roles across all sectors of society held by women by 2020, but at the end of that year the timeframe was quietly pushed back by a decade.

Women currently hold nearly 16% of the seats in the Lower House and about a third – or 42 out of 125 seats – in the Upper House.

Takaichi, who became Japan's first female leader in October last year, had pledged to raise female representation in her cabinet to levels comparable to Nordic countries, which hold the top spots in terms of female leadership.

But she has appointed just two other women to her 19-member cabinet.
In Japan, the dearth of women's restrooms extends beyond the legislative chamber.

Long lines in front of women's public restrooms are a common sight nationwide.

Former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had said his government would look into "enhancing women's restroom facilities" to make Japan a society where "women can live their lives with peace of mind".
 
 

Emperor Naruhito expressed his hope for a peaceful 2026 in his New Year's address Friday, with other members of the imperial family joining him in greeting the public, including Prince Hisahito who appeared for the first time.

"I am concerned about the many people who are struggling with their lives in the wake of disasters, such as earthquakes, heavy rain, forest fires and massive snowfall, that occurred in various parts of the country last year," the emperor, standing behind glass on a balcony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, told the many well-wishers who had gathered to hear him speak.

The 65-year-old emperor said he hopes 2026 will be a "peaceful and good year" for everyone, also wishing for the "happiness of people in Japan and around the world."

Prince Hisahito, the emperor's nephew who is second-in-line to the Chrysanthemum Throne after his father Crown Prince Fumihito, completed his coming-of-age rites in September last year.

The emperor was also accompanied by his wife, Empress Masako, their only daughter, Princess Aiko, and his parents, former Emperor Akihito and former Empress Michiko.
 
 

 
A local train traveling from Hiratsuka to Koga collided with a car at a level crossing on the JR Utsunomiya Line in Shiraoka, Japan's Saitama Prefecture, on Thursday.

The car was heavily damaged in the crash, and part of the train derailed as a result, News.Az reports, citing Japanese media.

Local police said a person was trapped inside the car, and rescue operations were ongoing.

East Japan Railway Co. (JR East) said that as of 3:30 p.m., train services on the Utsunomiya Line were suspended in both directions between Tokyo and Utsunomiya stations due to the accident.
 
 

Japan government will provide a grant to finance the construction and supply of the first-of-its-kind diving support vessel (DSV) for the Suez Canal Authority’s fleet. The grant project, provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is valued at $22m (equivalent to approximately EGP 1 billion).

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Egypt’s minister of planning, economic development and international cooperation Rania Al-Mashat and the chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) admiral Osama Rabie, in the presence of the economic counsellor at the embassy of Japan Yusuke Suzuki.

The vessel will be deployed for multiple purposes, most notably enhancing navigational safety, towing operations, assisting vessels during manoeuvring, and strengthening rapid emergency response capabilities.

The vessel, which will be build in Japan, will measure 45 meters in length, 10 meters in width, with a draft of 4.5 meters and a total weight of 620 tons.
It will have a maximum speed of 12 knots and accommodation capacity for up to 29 personnel.

The unit features a dual-fuel engine system (diesel and natural gas) to reduce carbon emissions and ensure sustainable operations.

Also of importance is that the DSV will be equipped with advanced search and diving systems and essential equipment to support divers safely and efficiently, including two decompression chambers for diving, search, rescue, and recovery operations, as well as a waste treatment unit.

SCA chairman Rabie affirmed that the diving support vessel constitutes an unprecedented addition to the Authority’s fleet and will significantly enhance the maritime rescue team’s capabilities in diving operations, search and rescue missions, and emergency response, particularly as two rescue tugboats with a bollard pull of 190 tons are scheduled to join the fleet next year.

From her side, Al-Mashat emphasized that the agreement’s most significant aspect is its focus on enhancing the capabilities of the Suez Canal Authority, the global maritime corridor that serves approximately 12 percent of global trade.

She added that while regional tensions since October 2023 caused a significant decline in traffic, navigation activity recovered to record 8.6% growth in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2025, following a peace agreement sponsored by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and a gradual return to stability in the Red Sea.
 
 
 

JAPAN TODAY




 

The number of newly built condominiums in the Tokyo metropolitan area is expected to increase by 2.2% in 2026 from the previous year, the Real Estate Economic Institute Co. said.

The institute predicts that the number of new condominiums put up for sale in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba prefectures will increase to 23,000.

The increase is expected to be particularly large in western Tokyo, excluding the central area, where the number of new released condos will increase by 33.3% to 4,000 units, and in Chiba Prefecture, where the number will rise by 16.7% to 3,500 units. This is due to the release of high-rise condos in Hachioji in western Tokyo and Funabashi in Chiba Prefecture.

The institute also predicted that securing land in central Tokyo will be difficult and that the supply of new condos will fall by 5.9% to 8,000 units.

There are many high-priced condos in central Tokyo, and the decrease in supply there is expected to slow down the rise in average prices across the entire metropolitan area.

The average price per newly built condo in the Tokyo metropolitan area from January to November 2025 was ¥94.18 million, 18% higher than the same period in the previous year.
 

 

People across Japan are slurping up soba buckwheat noodles on Wednesday, New Year's Eve. Eating the noodles while wishing for longevityand happiness is a Japanese tradition on the final day of the year.

One soba restaurant in Morioka City in the northeastern prefecture of Iwate has a history of more than 140 years. It prepared about 6,000 servings using flour from elsewhere in the prefecture.

Diners occupied all the tables immediately after the restaurant opened for the day.

Most customers ordered soba in hot soup after arriving amid the winter cold with snow falling outside. Many bought noodles to take away and eat later at home.

A man in his 30s said he had come to cap the year without problems, just like easily eating the soba. He added that he hopes to lead a healthy and peaceful life in 2026.

A man in his 60s who had come with his wife said the noodles tasted great, and that he wants to pass next year with a sound body.

The restaurant's proprietress said she wants customers to enjoy the soba while wishing for long lives.
 
 

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration has begun studying legislation aimed at preventing information theft by foreign entities.

While the measure has gained support from lawmakers, including opposition party members, concerns remain that the government could strengthen its surveillance and tighten control over information.

The focus will be how to balance the development of a counterintelligence system in light of the severe security environment surrounding Japan and the protection of constitutional rights, such as confidentiality of communication and freedom of speech.

In a parliamentary debate with party leaders Nov. 26, Takaichi pledged to draw up related legislation "swiftly."

On Thursday, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told a press conference, "It's extremely significant to prevent unjust interference from foreign countries."
 


 

Perfume, an all-female Japanese techno-pop group, made its last performance Wednesday on Japan's public broadcaster's year-end live music show before taking a hiatus.

The trio, who have captured a strong fan base in Japan and beyond for their futuristic style and sharp, synchronized and robot-like dance moves, announced in September that the group will be put "into a deep sleep starting in 2026."

The group, who appeared on NHK's "Kohaku Uta Gassen," or red and white song battle, for 16 straight years from 2008 to 2023, dazzled the audience with a medley of their songs including "Polyrhythm," which appeared on the soundtrack for the Pixar Animation Studios film "Cars 2."

Perfume, which consists of members fondly known by fans as A-chan, Kashiyuka and Nocchi, was formed in 1999 in Hiroshima Prefecture, western Japan, and had their major-label debut in 2005.

Before their performance, A-chan said, "We each want to come back more powerful than ever, so it would be great if you will continue to support us warmly until the day we can meet again."

With "Chocolate Disco" and "Laser Beam" also among their hit songs, the group has been familiar in the Japanese music scene.

It has also extended its reach overseas, having performed in Asia, Europe and the United States at events such as the Coachella festival in California in 2019.

"To take on new challenges, we decided to end this chapter," Perfume said in a statement announcing its hiatus on Sept. 21, the 20th anniversary of its major-label debut with the single "Linear Motor Girl."
 
 

The Nikkei stock index climbed 26 percent in 2025 from a year earlier to close at a record year-end high above 50,000 on Tuesday, helped by an artificial intelligence boom and expectations for economic measures under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Tokyo stocks, meanwhile, fell on the final trading day of 2025, with the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average ending down 187.44 points, or 0.37 percent, from Monday at 50,339.48. The broader Topix index finished 17.55 points, or 0.51 percent, lower at 3,408.97.

Japanese financial markets will be closed from Wednesday through Friday for the New Year holidays.

Following a turbulent year of sharp swings, the Nikkei benchmark posted a record annual gain of more than 10,000 points, renewing an all-time high for the second year in a row.

The index began 2025 around 40,000 but faced headwinds after U.S. President Donald Trump rolled out an aggressive trade policy by imposing hefty tariffs, with the Nikkei suffering its third-largest point drop on record of 2,644 points on April 7 amid global sell-offs.

Stocks recovered after a Japan-U.S. trade deal in July that reduced auto and other tariff rates, and on easing trade frictions between the United States and China.

The market was further bolstered by solid earnings from Japanese companies and optimism that strong AI demand would spur buying of semiconductor and other related issues, sending the Nikkei above 45,000 in September.

"It's no exaggeration to say that the Nikkei's rise was led by chip shares throughout the year," said Wataru Akiyama, strategist in the Investment Content Department of Nomura Securities Co. "It was surprising to see tech companies keep expanding capital investment in AI."

The key index hit an all-time closing high of 52,411.34 in October after Takaichi took office earlier in the month, vowing to achieve a strong economy through stimulus measures under a slogan of "responsible and proactive public finances."

"The launch of the Takaichi government with its policy stance of expanding the economy through proactive fiscal measures also likely provided support to the market," Akiyama said, noting that the broader Topix index also renewed a record high recently.

On Tuesday, the Nikkei came under pressure as SoftBank Group fell on concern over its financial health after it announced plans to acquire U.S. data center investment firm DigitalBridge Group Inc. for roughly $4 billion.

On the top-tier Prime Market, the main decliners were securities house, nonferrous metal and service issues.

The U.S. dollar moved narrowly, mostly in the lower 156 yen range in Tokyo amid a lack of fresh trading cues and thin participation ahead of the New Year holidays, dealers said.

At 5 p.m., the dollar fetched 155.97-99 yen compared with 156.01-11 yen in New York and 156.07-09 yen in Tokyo at 5 p.m. Monday.

The euro was quoted at $1.1770-1771 and 183.58-62 yen against $1.1767-1777 and 183.67-77 yen in New York and $1.1776-1777 and 183.80-84 yen in Tokyo late Monday afternoon.

The yield on the benchmark 10-year Japanese government bond ended up 0.015 percentage point from Monday's close at 2.070 percent as the debt was sold on speculation about additional interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan.

The barometer of long-term interest rates surpassed 2.0 percent after the central bank raised its policy rate to a 30-year high of around 0.75 percent on Dec. 19.
 
 

Convenience store chain Lawson Inc. plans to launch as early as 2026 a delivery service for over-the-counter drugs at its stores with no pharmacists or registered sellers present, President Sadanobu Takemasu has said.

The service, which allows customers to order OTC drugs, such as cold medicines, online for home delivery, will be introduced after an easing of drug sales regulations for convenience stores.

“We want to sell drugs remotely and deliver them,” Takemasu said in a recent interview. He said that the service will start “next year or the year after” following consultations with relevant authorities.

Lawson plans to increase stores handling drugs from around 320, hoping to survive intensifying competition from drugstores by boosting customer convenience related to drug purchases.

Regarding a plan to raise the number of overseas stores to around 14,000 by fiscal 2030, Takemasu explained that about 12,000 of them would be in China. He also expressed a wish to expand the company’s store network in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Takemasu said Lawson has no plan to open stores in the U.S. mainland, where Japan’s Seven & i Holdings Co. leads the convenience store market.
 
 

An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 struck near the southern islands in Japan on Tuesday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake was recorded at a depth of ten kilometers at 9:12 am CET. Its epicenter was registered 20 kilometers north-northeast of the Japanese town of Wadomari, located on the island of Okinoerabujima, which is classed with the Amami archipelago between the Japanese islands of Kyushu and Okinawa.

There were no initial reports of casualties or material damage, and no tsunami warning was issued following the earthquake.
 
 

One of Japan's largest events for lovers of manga and anime opened in Tokyo's Koto Ward on Tuesday.

The Comic Market, also known as Comiket, is marking its 50th anniversary after being launched in Tokyo's Toranomon in 1975.

Visitors formed a long line at its venue Tokyo Big Sight before it opened at 10:30 a.m.

More than 12,000 groups are showcasing and selling self-published works, including those based on popular anime characters, as well as their original creations.

A section has been set up for visitors to write messages to commemorate the event's 50th anniversary. Some of the messages expressed hope that Comiket will continue for many years to come.

A man in his 20s said that his father took part in the event more than 20 years ago through cosplay, and that he felt great to be able to participate in the convention's 50th anniversary.

He added that he wanted to enjoy the year-end event to his heart's content.
Co-head of the Comic Market's preparatory committee, Ichikawa Koichi, said he believes Comiket has lasted all these years as it creates new trends, new comics and new encounters every time it is held.

He also expressed hope that it will continue past its 100th anniversary.
The event runs through Wednesday.
 
 

 

The cabinet of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on December 26 approved $58 billion (9.04 trillion yen) defense spending for fiscal year 2026, as Tokyo faces growing military pressure from three nuclear-armed neighbors—China, North Korea, and Russia—and U.S. calls for higher defense outlays.

The draft budget represents a 3.8 percent increase from the current fiscal year, marking a record high for the 12th consecutive year.

The defense budget, expected to pass Japan’s bicameral legislature in coming months, aims to bolster unmanned defense systems and standoff missile capabilities to address the country’s deteriorating security environment.

In its defense budget, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) secured funding for the construction of four types of JMSDF vessels, as well as the procurement of various aircraft. Key maritime-related items in the budget are as follows:


The establishment of the national multi-layered coastal defense system called “SHIELD” ($640.6 million)

The defense ministry plans to acquire an unspecified number of surface ship-launched UAVs, small ship-based UAVs, and small multi-role USVs for the JMSDF to build SHEILD. The name stands for “Synchronized, Hybrid, Integrated and Enhanced Littoral Defense.”

The ministry said the plan would involve purchasing existing UAVs and USVs, primarily from foreign manufacturers. It also said that surface-launched UAVs will attack enemy ships from JMSDF ships. Meanwhile, small ship-based UAVs will improve the intelligence gathering and surveillance capabilities of surface vessels, and will also be able to attack enemy vessels.

In July, JMSDF officials told Naval News that the U.S. aerospace and defense technology company Shield AI’s V-BAT is being considered as an UAV to be installed on the upgraded Mogami-class frigate—known in Tokyo as the “New FFM” and also called as the 06FFM.

The JMSDF has already decided to equip its new Sakura-class　offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), with a standard displacement of 1,900 tons, with the V-BAT. Under the Defense Buildup Program adopted in December 2022, the MoD plans to acquire 12 OPVs over the next decade. The fiscal 2025 defense budget earmarks 4 billion yen for the procurement of six V-BAT systems for new patrol vessels.

In addition, the Defense Ministry was allocated $14.1 million to conduct demonstration tests for simultaneous control of a large number of various unmanned assets.


Construction of one New FFM ($667 million)

The ministry earmarked $667 million to build the sixth ship of the upgraded Mogami-class, which has a full-load displacement of about 6,200 tons. The lead ship of the New FFM class is scheduled to be laid down in fiscal year 2025 and commissioned in fiscal year 2028.

According to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, if construction proceeds smoothly, all 12 vessels are expected to be in service by fiscal year 2032.

Securing construction costs for one New FFM in one year is very unusual because the MoD in Tokyo has so far earmarked the construction costs for two ships in the 2024 budget and three ships in the 2025 budget.

The move came as the Australian government selected the upgraded Mogami-class as the Royal Australian Navy’s future fleet of general-purpose frigates in August.

The Japanese defense ministry is believed to have prioritized near-term shipyard slots and supply-chain resources at MHI’s Nagasaki shipyard for Australia, taking into account Canberra’s urgent push to strengthen its naval capabilities.


Construction of two Sakura-class OPVs ($182.3 million)

The defense ministry was allocated $182.3 million to build the fifth and sixth ships of the new Sakura-class OPVs. The JMSDF plans to acquire a total of 12 patrol vessels over roughly 10 years.


Construction of one Taigei-class submarine($773 million)

The MoD earmarked $773 million to build the 10th Taigei-class submarine, Japan’s latest diesel-electric submarine with a displacement tonnage of 3,000 tons.


Construction of one Awaji-class minesweeper ($217.5 million)

The defense ministry was allocated $217.5 million to build the 690-tonne seventh Awaji-class minesweeper, which has improved capabilities to deal with various types of mines, including deepwater mines. The planned number of Awaji-class vessels is nine.


Preparation for various tests of two Aegis system equipped vessels – ASEVs ($510 million)

The MoD secured $510 million as expenses related to the acquisition of two Aegis system equipped vessels. Specifically, it made mention of costs associated with preparation for various tests.

The ASEVs are an alternative to the two land-based Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense (BMD) system, which was cancelled in June 2020 over concerns that falling components from missile interceptors might hit heavily populated areas over Japan.

The defense ministry explained that the new ships will be 190 meters long, 25 meters wide, and have a standard displacement of 12,000 tons.
The JMSDF is expected to take delivery of the first ASEV during fiscal year 2027, with the second one in the following fiscal year.


Modifications of Izumo-class helicopter carriers（$182.3 million)

The JMSDF earmarked $182.4 million to continue modifying its two Izumo-class helicopter carriers – JS Izumo and JS Kaga – into aircraft carriers capable of enabling Lockheed Martin F-35B fighter aircraft operations.

As for the Izumo, the defense official said $5.8 million was allocated to install deck status lights on the ship, which allow deck workers to share the status of the deck, and to cover the test cost of the landing guidance system on the Izumo.

As for the Kaga, $176.6 million was allocated for hull modifications, including upgrades to hangar facilities.

The Ministry of Defense said JS Izumo‘s modification is scheduled to be completed in fiscal 2027, and JS Kaga‘s in fiscal 2028.

According to the ministry, the cost of modifying the Izumo-class helicopter carriers, including funding in next year’s budget, will total $687.2 million.


Acquisition of the ship-launched, improved version of the Type 12 SSM ($228.4 million)

The MoD began mass production of the long-range, ship-launched, improved version of the Type 12 SSM in the current fiscal 2025.

The JMSDF will begin operating this new missile on the refurbished JS Teruzuki (DD-116) in fiscal 2027.


Acquisition of submarine-launched missiles ($102.4 million)

The MoD also began mass production of the new submarine-launched missile in the current fiscal year. It is a long-range cruise missile that can be launched from a submarine’s torpedo tubes.

The MoD explained that the missile will be installed on the JMSDF’s Taigei-class submarines.


Adding Tomahawk launch function to two Aegis destroyers ($7.7 million)

The MoD plans to equip the JMSDF’s two Aegis destroyers Myoko (DDG-175) and Atago (DDG-177) with a function to launch U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles during fiscal 2026.

Defense officials said three Aegis destroyers, namely Chokai (DDG-176), Haguro (DDG-180), Kirishima (DDG-174) have already undergone for the addition of a Tomahawk launch function during this current fiscal 2025.

The JMSDF currently possesses a total of eight Aegis destroyers: four Kongo-class, two Atago-class, and two Maya-class. This means the remaining three JS Kongo (DDG-173), JS Ashigara (DDG-178) and JS Maya (DDG-179) will also be given Tomahawk capabilities in the near future.


Acquisition of four MQ-9B SkyGuardian UAVs ($489.4 million)

The defense ministry secured $489.4 million to acquire four more MQ-9B SkyGuardian UAVs for the JMSDF. 

The JMSDF plans to use the SeaGuardian for persistent surveillance of surface vessels and submarines, with crewed P-1 and P-3C maritime patrol aircraft conducting anti-submarine warfare once any submarine is detected.

The JMSDF ultimately aims to acquire a total of 23 aircraft by around fiscal 2032, with roughly half to be deployed at the service’s Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima Prefecture and the remainder at Hachinohe Air Base in Aomori Prefecture.
 
 

The rising price of glutinous rice, which is used to make mochi rice cakes and mirin cooking rice wine, is casting a shadow over preparations for New Year’s celebrations.

This year’s purchase price for mochi manufacturers and distributors is more than double that of last year.

The reason is said to be the result of the decrease in the volume of glutinous rice on the market, as more glutinous rice farmers have switched to growing staple rice due to the rice shortage and price increases that have continued since 2024.

The demand for glutinous rice is at its highest around this time of year, as mochi rice cakes are essential for zoni soup dishes and mirin is indispensable for osechi New Year’s dishes. Retailers are struggling to keep prices in check.


3 times more expensive

Freshly made mochi rice cakes are lined up at a factory of Kouseido, a Japanese sweets company in Suminoe Ward, Osaka, on Dec. 17.

The purchase price of Saga Prefecture glutinous rice, which was used to make the mochi, was 2.5 to 3 times higher than last year.

“I’ve never seen such a surge in [glutinous rice] prices,” said Muneki Maeda, 60, the managing director of the company.

However, the company has only increased its small and cut mochi rice cake prices by about 10%, cutting into its profit margin, because it did not want to lose customers.

According to “Mochi no Tanaka-ya,” a mochi shop in Fukui City, this year’s purchase price of glutinous rice is about ¥1,000 per kilogram, about 2.5 times more expensive than three years ago. This year, the shop sells 1 “sho” (about 1.8 kilograms) of kagamimochi ceremonial rice cakes for ¥3,750, up from ¥3,000 last year.

“We’re in a difficult situation, but we’ll maintain affordable prices in order to protect the mochi food culture,” said Hidenobu Tanaka, 39, who runs the store.

The price of packed mochi also increased. According to a survey by the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry, the national average retail price in previous years was around ¥700 per kilogram. In November, the price was ¥948, an increase of ¥229 compared to the same period last year.



Demand surges in Dec.

The demand for mochi surges in December, when people prepare for New Year’s celebrations.

According to the ministry, the monthly purchase volume of mochi per household of two or more people was 939 grams in December 2024. The amount is 4 to 22 times more than the volume purchased in other months, ranging from 42 grams to 221 grams.

The main production areas for glutinous rice include Hokkaido, Niigata Prefecture and Saga Prefecture. In recent years, the annual production of glutinous rice in Japan has been about 300,000 tons, or about 4% of the total rice grown in paddies in the country.

Unlike non-glutinous rice, which is eaten as a staple food, such as Koshihikari and Akita Komachi rice brands, glutinous rice is stickier and more difficult to control in terms of temperature and humidity after milling.

According to Shunsuke Orikasa, chief researcher at the Tokyo-based Distribution Economics Institute of Japan who is familiar with issues of rice distribution, the surge in rice prices that began in summer 2024 has caused glutinous rice farmers to switch to growing staple rice since spring.

As a result, there is now a shortage of glutinous rice, leading to price increases.

“The price increase is expected to slow down in January or later, but there won’t be a large drop in price,” Orikasa said.

Sato Foods Co., a major mochi manufacturer based in Niigata City, has raised the price of its packed mochi two times this year and plans to raise the price again of the products to be shipped in March and later.
The company said it is due to the rising price of glutinous rice.


Kagamimochi sales slow

The price of mirin, often used in New Year’s dishes, is also rising.
“Some [mirin] manufacturers have already raised the prices of their products, but others have not been able to do so,” said a representative of the national mirin association located in Aichi Prefecture that comprises mirin manufacturers.

“We would like to share information with each other while carefully watching the situation in January and later.”

At an Echizen-ya supermarket in Nishinari Ward, Osaka, the retail price of mirin is 10% higher than last year and packed mochi rice cakes are 20% higher.

According to Kazuhiko Horiuchi, the head of the supermarket’s business department, sales of packed kagamimochi are slower compared to previous years, apparently due to the price increase.

“Mochi and mirin are essential for New Year season,” said a 64-year-old woman living nearby. “I’ll reduce the amount of kagamimochi [I buy] to cope with the price increase.”
 
 

A pile-up involving at least 50 vehicles on a highway in central Japan has left two people dead and 26 injured, according to police.

The incident was caused by a crash between two trucks, sparking a chain reaction that set at least 10 vehicles on fire, local police said.

A 77-year-old woman from Tokyo was killed, and another body was discovered in the driver's seat of a burnt-out truck. Five people were seriously injured and 21 suffered minor injuries, police said.

There was a heavy snow warning in place at the time of the crash. Police believe icy surfaces likely caused the trucks to skid on the roads.

The crash happened on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Minakami, Gunma prefecture, about 160km (100 miles) north-west of Tokyo, at about 19:30 local time (10:30 GMT) on 26 December.

It took about seven and a half hours to put out the fire, police said.
Following the incident, a section of the highway was closed, with a long line of vehicles, many charred beyond recognition, stuck in the outbound lane. Work is under way to tow them away.

A man in his 60s, whose vehicle was involved in the accident, told local media outlet NHK he heard a loud explosion from the far end of the pile-up and saw fire during the crash. The blaze then spread to other vehicles, he said.

He said he was evacuated to a nearby toll gate with about 50 other people and spent the night in the hallway there.

Nexco, which operates the road, said checks were needed to see if the surface was damaged by the fire.

The company is warning travellers not to use the highway.
 
 

Foreign-language babysitting services for foreign tourists are beginning to take off in Japan, driven by demand among wealthy families who wish to enjoy aspects of Japanese culture that may be difficult to experience with young children.

Some services also provide hands-on programs for the little ones, allowing both parents and kids to make the most of their time in different ways. The trend reflects the diversification of traveler needs amid Japan's inbound tourism boom.

In late November, Kelvin Young, who was visiting Japan from California with his family, left his 5-year-old and 2-year-old daughters with a nanny at their hotel.

For about four hours, he and his wife enjoyed a visit to a high-end sushi restaurant in Tokyo that is not well suited to families with young children. The next morning, their daughters excitedly showed them the crafts they had made during that time.

The childcare service was provided by Synk Inc., a company based in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, that employs nine English-speaking nationally certified childcare workers and one nurse.

The company has already handled over 50 requests since launching the service in April 2025, with fees starting from 54,000 yen ($350) for three hours.

In addition to babysitting at the hotel and walks, Synk also offers activities such as Zen meditation at temples and visits to local Japanese nursery schools.

"By providing children with specialized experiences, we want parents to be able to enjoy time for themselves without hesitation," said Synk President Saya Sugahara.

Tokyo-based major childcare provider Poppins Corp. has also stepped up recruitment of foreign-language-speaking babysitters since spring 2025. Meanwhile, Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel has begun offering an online service for guests to book such babysitters.

Around 36.8 million foreign visitors came to Japan in 2024, of which about 690,000 were aged 4 or younger, according to government data.

Akane Kakishima, a senior researcher at the Japan Travel Bureau Foundation, noted that such services "could also help revitalize the nighttime economy" as trips with children tend to limit opportunities for adult-focused spending.
 
 

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi moved into the official residence of the prime minister from the dormitory for members of the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of parliament, on Monday.

Her husband, Taku Yamamoto, will also live in the prime minister's official residence, located in the Nagatacho district of Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward, to receive continued support for his rehabilitation from his wife, according to people close to the prime minister.

Yamamoto, a former lawmaker of the Lower House, has suffered a stroke.
Earlier this month, Takaichi posted on X, formerly Twitter, that she would move into the official residence so that she can swiftly deal with a possible emergency, saying, "Crisis management is crucial for running a country."

The prime minister's official residence sits next to the office of the prime minister. The dormitory for Lower House members is in the Akasaka district of the Japanese capital's Minato Ward, adjacent to Chiyoda Ward.
 
 

Japan's transport ministry and the Cabinet Office announced on Friday a roadmap for revitalizing the country's shipbuilding industry, aiming to double annual ship output to 18 million gross tons by 2035 through sector realignment.

Japan's share of the global shipbuilding market has dwindled due to competition from China and South Korea. The government now hopes to regain a share of around 20 pct.

The roadmap calls for consolidating domestic shipbuilding companies into one to three groups by 2028. It has already been decided that a vessel design firm jointly established by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. and Imabari Shipbuilding Co. will receive investments from three major shipping companies.

The roadmap also calls for investing in vessels that carry crude oil and food and those that transport liquefied carbon dioxide, as well as next-generation ships that use ammonia fuel.

Shipbuilding is one of the 17 priority investment areas proposed by the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. At a press conference on Friday, transport minister Yasushi Kaneko said that the roadmap features "ambitious but achievable" goals.
 
 

Japan is moving toward a 10 percent foreign population far faster than official projections, with dozens of municipalities already crossing the threshold and one village reporting that more than a third of its residents are foreign nationals.

A national research institute has estimated that foreigners will account for 10.8 percent of Japan's population by 2070. But an analysis of Basic Resident Register data shows the shift is already well under way at the local level. As of January, 27 municipalities had foreign resident ratios above 10 percent, led by the village of Shimukappu in Hokkaido at 36.6.

The trend suggests the nationwide transition could arrive much earlier than forecast, raising questions about how daily life will change in a country long defined by demographic homogeneity.

In Tobishima in central Japan's Aichi Prefecture, a community of 4,713 overlooking Ise Bay, foreign residents numbered 501 as of January, accounting for 10.6 percent of the population.

On weekday evenings, foreign workers in uniforms cycle through the village. On weekends, nearly half the passengers on local buses are foreign nationals.

Residents say the increase has accelerated over the past few years. Many foreign workers are employed at factories under Japan's technical intern training or "specified skills" programs, filling labor shortages at small and midsize businesses. Others work in used car sales.
Reactions among residents vary.

A 54-year-old female farmer said foreign residents cheerfully help with garden work and work hard, while a 78-year-old male farmer said he has noticed no particular problems despite their rapid increase.

Others remain cautious. Some residents complain that foreign drivers ignore traffic rules. A 75-year-old self-employed woman said she appreciates their labor but worries the number of people unfamiliar with Japanese customs will grow, while an 83-year-old woman said the sudden changes in her surroundings leave her feeling uneasy.

Near Nagoya Port, beyond a stretch of warehouses and factories, the Tobishima Seisakusho manufacturing plant operates amid quiet farmland. The company produces parts for refrigeration and cooling equipment.

Four of its 21 employees are Vietnamese nationals working under technical internship or specified skills visas.

Company president Hideki Ito, 73, said their presence is essential. "They're a valuable asset, a treasure," he said. "If they were to quit, the company couldn't survive."



Young Japanese moving to urban areas

Ito said younger Japanese residents have moved to cities, leaving local employers struggling to recruit. Even when Japanese workers are hired, some leave within a year.

"Considering the company's future, having young Japanese workers would be much more preferable, but that's simply not feasible. We had no choice," said Ito.

The company began accepting Vietnamese workers in 2017 after hearing of their diligence through word of mouth and gradually increased their numbers. Pay and bonuses are almost the same as for Japanese employees, he said.

The four workers live together on company premises. Nguyen Manh Ha, 28, has worked at the company for about six years. He sends 120,000 to 150,000 yen a month to his family in Vietnam, spending about 20,000 to 30,000 yen on himself. "I enjoy my work," he said. "If possible, I would like to work in Japan forever."

Population data compiled as of the beginning of the year from the Basic Resident Register for 1,892 municipalities shows that high concentrations of foreign residents are clustered in industrial and tourist areas, as well as communities with long-established foreign populations.

Shimukappu, home to the Tomamu resort area, recorded 582 foreign residents out of a population of 1,590. Five other municipalities had foreign resident ratios above 20 percent, including the Hokkaido village of Akaigawa, the town of Kutchan in Hokkaido, Ikuno Ward in Osaka, and the town of Oizumi in Gunma Prefecture.

In contrast, two villages -- including Nishimeya in Aomori Prefecture -- reported zero foreign residents.

According to statistics, the number of foreign residents nationwide stood at 3.76 million at the end of 2024, up 350,000 from the previous year, the largest annual increase on record.

Until the 1960s, Japan's foreign population generally hovered around 600,000. Numbers rose more clearly after a 1990 revision of the Immigration and Refugee Act allowed people of Japanese descent to live in Japan as permanent residents.

After falling following the global financial crisis and again during the COVID-19 pandemic, the foreign population is now in its third expansionary phase.

The National Institute of Population and Social Security Research projects Japan's total population will fall below 87 million by 2070. Its latest forecast assumes the foreign population will grow by about 160,000 people a year until around 2040, pushing the foreign share above 10 percent by 2070.

Current trends are outpacing that projection. Since 2022, the foreign population has been increasing by about 300,000 a year, reaching 350,000 in 2024. In July, then Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki said Japan should assume the foreign population will exceed 10 percent by around 2040 -- roughly 30 years earlier than the institute's estimate.

Japan's labor shortage is expected to intensify. The working-age population aged 15 to 64 is projected to decline by 15 million between 2020 and 2040.
Even a sudden reversal in the falling birthrate would not be sufficient to offset the shortfall. While automation and artificial intelligence offer some relief, reliance on foreign labor is expected to continue.

The rapid demographic shift is fueling political debate. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's coalition government with the Japan Innovation Party has called for tighter controls on foreigners. In a policy speech, she said illegal activity and rule-breaking by some of them had created public anxiety and a sense of unfairness.

Others argue coexistence is unavoidable. Tsukasa Sasai, a demography professor at Fukui Prefectural University, said Japan can no longer function without foreign residents.

"Japan is already a society that cannot survive without coexistence with foreigners," he said. "Creating an environment where foreigners can successfully establish themselves as part of the workforce would offer significant benefits to Japanese society."

As more municipalities pass the 10 percent mark, questions about how Japan accepts and integrates foreign residents are shifting from long-term projections to immediate policy choices.
 
 

Immersive Fort Tokyo, a theme park in Tokyo’s Odaiba district that lets visitors step into the roles of popular animated characters, will close at the end of February, the operator said Thursday.

The facility will have been open for less than two years.

“We’ve concluded that the facility’s size is too excessive [for our business model],” said a statement by Katana Inc., a marketing company in Osaka City that operates the indoor park.

Immersive Fort Tokyo opened in March 2024, occupying part of the former Venus Fort shopping center that closed in 2022.

The park re-creates the settings of popular animation and stories, giving visitors an immersive experience of playing characters and interacting with cast members.

“We’ll take advantage of the expertise we’ve gained through running the facility [for our future business],” the statement said.
 
 

Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda on Thursday reiterated his readiness to continue raising interest rates from a 30-year high of around 0.75 percent, citing growing confidence in achieving the central bank's inflation target.

In a speech at a meeting of Japan's biggest business lobby in Tokyo, Ueda said the mechanism in which both wages and prices rise moderately -- a key factor affecting policy decisions -- will be maintained next year and beyond.

"Amid tightening labor market conditions, firms' wage- and price-setting behavior has changed significantly in recent years, and the achievement of the 2 percent price stability target, accompanied by wage increases, is steadily approaching," Ueda said at the event hosted by the Japan Business Federation, also known as Keidanren.

The speech came after the central bank last week raised its policy rate from around 0.5 percent to around 0.75 percent in a unanimous vote, and Ueda signaled possible further hikes depending on economic and price developments.

Ueda said Thursday that tight labor market conditions will boost the prospect of more pay hikes and inflation expectations have been heightening among households and companies.

Under such circumstances, the governor said the likelihood of Japan's economy returning to a "zero norm state," in which wages and prices hardly change, seems to have "decreased considerably."

Noting that real interest rates remain "at significantly low levels," Ueda said that if the bank's baseline scenario is realized, it will continue to raise the policy rate.

The bank expects underlying inflation, which strips away cost-push and other temporary factors, will be at a level consistent with its 2 percent target in the latter half of its three-year projection period until March 2028.

The BOJ faces the challenge of taking the policy rate to higher levels while carefully examining the effects of its gradual policy normalization after years of keeping borrowing costs depressed at rock-bottom levels to jolt the economy out of chronic deflation.

The governor said the central bank believes that adjusting the degree of monetary accommodation will support "long-term growth," thus providing confidence to businesses.

Ueda's latest remarks drew market attention after the yen weakened sharply against the U.S. dollar despite Friday's rate increase, a development that might otherwise have been expected to support the Japanese currency.

The initial market reaction to the speech was muted, with the dollar trading in the upper 155 yen range.

Since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took office in October, the yen has been under pressure amid concerns that her expansionary spending policy would further worsen Japan's fiscal health, triggering the selling of the currency and government bonds.

The yen's slide accelerated amid growing expectations that the BOJ would lift borrowing costs at a slower-than-expected pace, as Ueda offered no clear guidance on the timing or pace of future hikes in a press conference after the central bank's policy gathering, dealers said.

A weak yen is seen as a boon to Japanese exporters given that it inflates their profits made overseas when repatriated. But the negative side of yen depreciation has become more evident in recent years as resource-poor Japan has seen rising import costs hurting both businesses and consumers.

Takaichi's government is seeking to ramp up investment to make the economy stronger while easing the inflation pain felt by households.

Earlier on Thursday, a government advisory panel on economic and fiscal policy began discussions to draft a new policy blueprint, with Takaichi vowing increased fiscal spending but in a "responsible" way.

The blueprint, the first of its kind under Takaichi, is expected to be finalized around June, feeding into the compilation of the budget for fiscal 2027.
 
 

Japan's business leaders have offered a mixed response to the government's draft budget for fiscal 2026, which was adopted at a cabinet meeting on Friday.

Yoshinobu Tsutsui, chairman of the Japan Business Federation, or Keidanren, the country's biggest organization of employers, said that the draft budget "includes many measures to realize a strong economy," which is a goal set by the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

The Keidanren chairman hailed the draft budget for embodying a direction in which the public and private sectors will collaborate to promote both crisis management investment and growth investment with the aim of boosting potential growth.

Tsutsui also stated that the partial implementation of social security system reforms reflected in the draft budget would curb the rise in insurance premiums for the working generation.

Ken Kobayashi, head of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the draft budget "involves policies to improve regional earning capabilities, such as providing support for startups and business succession."
 
 

Fast Retailing Co, the operator of the Uniqlo clothing chain, said Monday its group will hike the starting salary of new employees in Japan to 370,000 yen from 330,000 yen, raising it for the second consecutive year to spur competitiveness.

Uniqlo, GU, PLST and Link Theory are set to take on roughly 480 new graduates in the spring and the 40,000 yen hike is for those hired in management candidate programs that often involve overseas transfers.

It is the fourth hike such employees have received since 2020, with their wages growing by 160,000 yen over the six years. Their annual income, including bonuses, is expected to be around 5.9 million yen, up 12 percent from the current rate.

Employees assuming jobs that do not require relocation will receive a starting salary of 280,000 yen, up from 255,000 yen.
 


 

The government has adopted a package of about 20 measures related to curbing mega solar power development projects to address concerns about environmental damage and potential disaster risks.

The measures, which were adopted on Tuesday at a meeting of relevant Cabinet members, include amending relevant legislation, bolstering monitoring systems and abolishing support for new large-scale solar power plants.

As part of measures to strengthen legal regulations, the government will lower the minimum 30,000-kilowatt threshold for mandatory environmental assessments, while also looking into expanding the scope of the inspections.

The government will also create a mechanism in which a government-certified organization will verify in advance if planned solar power plants comply with relevant technical standards.

To make this requirement mandatory for the operators of solar power plants with an output of 10 kilowatts or more, the government aims to submit a bill to amend the Electricity Business Law during the ordinary Diet session next year.

The package also includes expanding restricted areas in the Hokkaido’s Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, the Japan’s largest wetland and surrounding hills, and reviewing the applications of the Protection of Cultural Properties Law, the Landscape Law and other relevant laws.

Starting in fiscal 2027, mega solar power plants with an output of 1,000 kilowatts or more will become ineligible for the feed-in premium program, a support system in which producers receive a fixed premium on top of the market price for electricity generated.

On the other hand, the government will increase incentives for developing or introducing next-generation perovskite solar cells and rooftop solar systems, as they have a smaller environmental impact.

After the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, mega solar power plants were built one after another across the country. In fiscal 2012, the administration led by the then Democratic Party of Japan introduced a support system in which power companies purchased electricity generated by renewable energy producers at higher than market price as part of efforts to promote renewable energy.

However, now that solar power generation has grown to account for about 10% of the overall electricity output in the country, the government decided to review the support system, and concluded that it has already to some extent played its role in expanding renewable energy usage.
 
 

Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ONISHI Yohei and Zakia Driouich, Morocco’s State Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture, Marine Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, signed and exchanged notes on Tuesday concerning the Grant Aid “Project for the Development of Souiria K’dima New Generation Fishing Port.” 

The two sides believe that cooperation at the Souiria  K’dima fishing port will lead to further promotion of Morocco’s fisheries industry and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the fisheries sector.

Japan’s Foreign Ministry reported on Onishi’s visit to Morocco, during which he also met with the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Fouad Yazourh and stressed the need “to strengthen cooperation with countries sharing fundamental values amidst challenges to a free, open and stable international order.”

 

Onishi said Morocco is an important partner for Japan and his visit demonstrates Japan’s commitment to strengthening its ties with the Maghreb region.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen the “Reinforced Partnership” between the two countries in areas such as politics, economics, and culture, looking ahead to the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.

On Wednesday, Onishi also paid a courtesy call on Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour, during which he requested Morocco’s cooperation in expanding the import of Japanese food products.

 

Minister Mezzour introduced initiatives for industrial promotion and trade facilitation in Morocco and the two sides agreed to work towards further strengthening cooperation in the industrial and trade sectors.

Onishi also exchanged views with volunteers from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) who are active locally concerning Japanese initiatives and Morocco’s development needs.
 
 

 
 
 
Experience Japan's Authentic Culinary Scene in Your Language — From Search to Reservation, All on Your Smartphone

Ranked No. 1 in Downloads Among "Japanese Gourmet Search Apps" Chosen by International Travelers (*2)

Tokyo--(ANTARA/Business Wire)--Tabelog (https://tabelog.com/en/), Japan's largest restaurant search and reservation service operated by Kakaku.com, Inc., launched its multilingual smartphone application (iOS/Android) for international travelers on Monday, November 17, 2025.

With approximately 100 million monthly users(*3), Tabelog is Japan's premier service widely used by Japanese locals for daily restaurant discovery.

Its database is unrivaled domestically, featuring information on approximately 890,000 establishments nationwide and over 85 million reviews and photos(*4).

Unlike global map services or travel sites, Tabelog is built on "authentic ratings and reviews from local Japanese users," enabling travelers to discover truly exceptional restaurants beloved by locals — not just tourist-oriented establishments.

While multilingual services were previously available through web browsers, the official app has been released to provide an enhanced search and reservation experience for the growing number of international visitors, from trip planning to their actual stay in Japan.

In the same month, it achieved No. 1 in downloads in the "Japanese Gourmet Search Apps Chosen by International Travelers" ranking(*2).

Download URL: https://tabelog-tourists.onelink.me/3eEh/iqkkho9r


About the Tabelog Multilingual Smartphone App


Background

While "Japanese cuisine" is cited as a top highlight of visiting Japan(*5), travelers often express frustrations such as "only finding tourist-oriented restaurants" and challenges like "giving up on phone reservations because Japanese-language communication is required"(*6).

As Japan's largest restaurant search and reservation service, Tabelog has developed this smartphone app leveraging the extensive database and expertise cultivated through its web version to address these pain points.

By providing locally-rated restaurant information in multiple languages, Tabelog aims to connect travelers with neighborhood dining establishments, contributing to the alleviation of overtourism and the revitalization of regional economies.



Key Features


 

1. [SEARCH] Map-Based Search and Comprehensive Information to Find Restaurants That Match Your Preferences Near Your Current Location
   Utilizing Tabelog's database boasting Japan's largest number of listings, users can intuitively locate restaurants that match their preferences on a map near their current location. With abundant photos and reviews easily accessible on the go, travelers can confidently choose restaurants even in unfamiliar areas.
2. [RESERVATION] Instant Online Booking Completed on Your Smartphone — No Phone Calls Required
   We've eliminated the barrier of "phone reservations" that pose challenges for travelers. Simply select your date, time, and party size within the app to instantly check availability and make online reservations — whether you're on a train or between sightseeing activities. Secure your table smoothly without concerns about language barriers.
3. [UI] Smartphone-Optimized Interface for Comfortable Navigation in Your Preferred Language
   Fully supports English, Chinese (Traditional), and Korean. The multilingual service previously available on the web version now features the smooth operability unique to mobile apps. Beyond viewing translated information, the intuitive design allows users to deeply understand and choose restaurants without stress, even on smaller screens.

(*1)	Restaurant search and reservation site with the most listed establishments survey (May 2024/internal research). Accessed target sites (Tabelog, Hot Pepper Gourmet, Gurunavi, Retty, Hitosara) and tallied all listed establishments displayed in searches without filtering, by prefecture.
(*2)	November 2025/AppTweak research. Combined downloads from "Food & Drink (Restaurants & Cafes)" and "Travel & Navigation (Trip Planner)" categories on App Store and Google Play in surveyed regions (Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, United States). Compared as "Japanese Gourmet Search Apps." Source: AppTweak (https://www.apptweak.com)
(*3)	96.73 million users (September 2025)
(*4)	As of December 23, 2025
(*5)	According to the Japan Tourism Agency's "Consumption Trend Survey for Foreigners Visiting Japan (2024)," "eating Japanese food" ranked first in "what they most looked forward to before visiting Japan" and "what they actually did."
(*6)	Refers to "communication with facility staff" and "insufficient multilingual signage" being cited as top difficulties during travel in the Japan Tourism Agency's "Survey on Improving the Accept Environment for Foreign Visitors" and similar studies.

About Kakaku.com, Inc.

Founded in 1997, Kakaku.com has been operating since the early days of Japan's internet era. Currently, the company plans and operates various web services deeply rooted in daily life, including the purchasing support site "Kakaku.com," restaurant search and reservation service "Tabelog," and job search aggregation service "Kyujin Box."

Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market (Securities Code: 2371), the company provides platforms with the largest user bases in Japan across multiple sectors.

Service Overview: https://corporate.kakaku.com/en/service

The original source-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the source-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.


Contacts

Kakaku.com, Inc.
Public Relations and Investor Relations Office
pr@kakaku.com


 

Japan's government has decided to accept more than 1.23 million foreign workers under two systems -- for skilled personnel and a new training program.

The government has presented its plan to a panel of experts to accept one-million 231,900 workers through the end of March 2029.

It says 805,700 people will be accepted in 19 fields under the current system for specified skilled workers. By industry, 199,500 would be in the manufacturing of industrial products, 133,500 would be in the manufacturing of food and drink products and 126,900 would be in nursing care.

The other system to be introduced on April 1, 2027 aims to train foreign workers so they attain the level of specified skilled personnel in three years in principle.

A total of 426,200 people will be accepted in 17 fields under this system. By industry, 123,500 will be in construction, 119,700 will be in industrial manufacturing and 61,400 will be in food and drink manufacturing.

Officials say this is the maximum number, as they have calculated the personnel that can be secured in Japan and the expected rise in productivity.

The government plans to debate the plan and have the Cabinet approve it in January.
 
 

Nippon Steel Corp. said Tuesday its wholly owned subsidiary, United States Steel Corp, will invest $350 million to revamp its largest blast furnace, part of the $11 billion investment the Japanese company promised to the U.S. government in winning approval for the acquisition of the U.S. steelmaker.

U.S. Steel said relining blast furnace No. 14 at the Gary Works plant in Indiana, which produces iron for high-strength steel, is "critical maintenance" needed to ensure long-term iron-making capabilities and capacities.

Seeing the United States as one of its key growth markets, Nippon Steel acquired the iconic U.S. steelmaker in June in a $14.1 billion transaction.

The deal was finalized after the Japanese steelmaker pledged to invest approximately $11 billion in the U.S. company through 2028 in an effort to win over support from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Nippon Steel said in its new medium- to long-term management plan released earlier this month that it aims to invest around 6 trillion yen ($38 billion) over the next five years domestically and globally to upgrade U.S. Steel facilities.
 
 

The Japanese government said Tuesday that it will resume bilateral economic aid for Syria after 15 years of suspension.

Through its official development assistance scheme, Japan plans to support the Middle Eastern country, now led by the interim government of Ahmed al-Sharaa, including in personnel training.

Yohei Onishi, Japanese parliamentary vice minister for foreign affairs, visited Damascus and notified the aid resumption on Monday.

Japan suspended its economic aid to Syria after the Syrian civil war started in 2011. Since then, it has only provided humanitarian aid through nongovernmental organizations and international institutions, including the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees.

Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime, the interim government was launched in December 2024. The Japanese government believes that efforts toward national reconciliation are progressing in Syria.
 
 

 Indonesia is exploring new opportunities to send migrant workers to Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) scheme, with protection and welfare emerging as the central focus of discussions.

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection (P2MI), Christina Aryani, met with representatives of the International Manpower Development Organization, Japan (IM Japan), at the P2MI Ministry office in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. 

During the meeting, IM Japan expressed interest in cooperating directly with P2MI Ministry to facilitate the placement of Indonesian workers in Japan.

Christina emphasized that any collaboration must deliver clear added value for Indonesian migrant workers, particularly in terms of protection. “If we cooperate, there must be tangible benefits for the workers. One of the most important aspects is protection,” she said, as quoted by Antara.

While IM Japan has long managed apprenticeship programs in partnership with Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower, Christina underscored the need for comprehensive safeguards for workers placed under the SSW scheme. 

She urged IM Japan to ensure proper handling from the moment workers arrive in Japan, including reception, guidance, and the availability of staff to provide immediate assistance in case of problems, ranging from mediation with employers to resolving disputes.

Beyond protection, Christina highlighted the importance of transparency in placement costs. All expenses must be clearly outlined from the start, including the division of financial responsibilities between workers and employers. 

“The cooperation we are pursuing is a government-to-private (G to P) scheme, with P2MI Ministry representing Indonesia and IM Japan on the Japanese side. The principle is that everything must be clear and protective of workers,” she stressed.

She also requested IM Japan to map out potential sectors and estimate labor demand, which will be further discussed in January as the basis for drafting a memorandum of understanding.

The cooperation is expected to cover 13 sectors under the SSW framework, including hospitality, aviation, food industry, building cleaning, industrial machinery, construction, and food processing.

Christina concluded by stressing the need to ensure that any agreement with IM Japan does not overlap with existing arrangements or memoranda of cooperation already established between Indonesia and Japan.