Japan's school child suicides highest since 1980.

Japan's suicide rate fell to 20,268 in 2024, with notable declines among men, but student suicides reached a record high.

In 2024, Japan saw a decrease in suicides, dropping to 20,268. This marks the second year in a row the numbers have fallen, hitting the second-lowest level since 2019's 20,169, according to the health ministry.

However, it’s not all good news. Among those, 527 were elementary, junior high, and high school students— the highest number since 1980, remaining over 500 for the third consecutive year. A staggering 163 of those were junior high students. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Keiichiro Tachibana emphasized the government "takes very seriously" this troubling trend.

Read more__〆(￣ー￣ )

Fascinated by Japan’s culture and history? Learn the language that brings it all to life. Start now at LearnJapanese.com!

Shinjuku Alta shuts down after 45 years.

The Shinjuku Alta building, a popular meeting spot for 45 years, will close its doors after decades of business.

Japan has the world's smallest park, which is incredibly tiny.

Nagaizumi in Shizuoka Prefecture now holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest park, measuring just 0.24 square meters.

Takashi Murakami collaborates with MLB for Tokyo Series.

Takashi Murakami is collaborating with MLB on a collection featuring unique products for the Tokyo Series between the Dodgers and Cubs.

U.S. war with Japan depicted only in 'Captain America.'

In "Captain America: Brave New World," the U.S. faces conflict with Japan over the newly discovered resource, adamantium.