Japan's top literary awards recognize three contemporary authors.

The 172nd Akutagawa Prize went to Jose Ando and Yui Suzuki, while Shin Iyohara won the Naoki Prize.

The 172nd Akutagawa literary prize went to authors Jose Ando and Yui Suzuki on Wednesday, while Shin Iyohara snagged the Naoki Prize. Ando's “Dtopia” and Suzuki’s “Goethe wa Subete o Itta” got the nod for this prestigious recognition, aimed at up-and-coming writers.

Ando, at 30, finally scored after two previous nominations, while 23-year-old Suzuki is a debut winner. Dtopia is set in beautiful Bora Bora and follows a reality show where 10 guys from places like Los Angeles and Tokyo vie for “Ms. Universe.” It’s all told through the eyes of Momo, a nonbinary person with Polynesian and Japanese roots, whose childhood friend is one of the contestants.

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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.