Japan extends Type 2 foreign workers' stay by five years.
The Immigration Services Agency plans to introduce a five-year stay for specified skilled foreign workers starting January, 2024.
Long lines at Tokyo store selling Kumamoto goods post-quake.
Since the earthquake, Tokyo's Kumamoto shop has seen long lines as customers buy goods and donate to support affected residents.
1 in 4 in Japan thinks AI might replace friends/family.
A Jiji survey found 25% of Japanese believe advanced AI will replace friends and family, especially among younger respondents.
Tokyo bookstore challenges sexism.
Akiko Matsuo founded Etc.books, a feminist publishing house and bookstore, after organizing a protest against gender discrimination in 2018.
7-Eleven Japan launches chocolate fruit gummies; questioning their hype.
7-Eleven's Chocotto Gummy range, featuring unique Okinawan flavors, has become a popular favorite among convenience store shoppers in Japan.
Tried Starbucks Japan's new coffee alternative.
Starbucks' new Clear Coffee aims to attract non-coffee drinkers with its lighter, sweeter profile and less bitterness.
Godiva Japan launches two premium shaved ice desserts this summer.
Godiva Japan introduces chocolate-infused shaved ice desserts for summer, blending traditional flavors with gourmet ingredients at select locations.
7-Eleven Japan introduces in-store baked pizza by the slice with two distinct topping options.
7-Eleven Japan now offers baked pizza by the slice, allowing customers to enjoy pizza without having to buy a whole pie.
Tokyo tourists can now show their faces on a giant screen at a busy intersection.
Shibuya's Scramble Crossing will soon allow tourists to display their selfies on a giant video screen for a fee.
25 cats rescued from earthquake and explosion-damaged Japanese mall.
Twenty-five cats were rescued unharmed from a shopping mall explosion following a deadly earthquake in Kumamoto, sparking online relief.
Japan's food prices to increase for 2,311 products in August.
Japan will see price hikes on over 4,500 food and beverage items in September, continuing a trend of rising costs.
Osaka police arrest two for illegal e-bike conversions.
Two Vietnamese men were arrested for illegally converting e-bikes into faster electric mopeds, violating traffic laws and generating revenue.
Starbucks Japan opens store in historic seaside quarantine station near Tokyo.
Starbucks opens a cafe in a historical Yokohama building once used for quarantine, preserving its original features and character.