Bird flu cases rise in Japan; 1.44 million birds to be culled.

Outbreaks of avian influenza confirmed in Aichi and Chiba prefectures, leading to the culling of 1.44 million birds.

Japan-inspired group in Kenya tackling rising world hunger.

Wawira Njiru founded Food4Education in Kenya to combat hunger and improve education, inspired by Japan’s successful school lunch programs.

Sony Japan stops recordable Blu-ray production, no successor planned.

Sony is ceasing production of recordable Blu-rays and MiniDiscs, impacting blank discs but not pre-recorded movies and shows.

Chinese buyer visiting Okinawa Island this summer.

A Chinese woman who claimed to buy Okinawa's Yanaha Island plans to visit it this summer with her company employees.

Yamagata offers appealing seasonal attractions for tourists.

Suspended 15 meters above Mount Jyubuichi, I enjoy a refreshing view of small towns and autumn foliage on an overcast morning.

Japanese firms announce record winter bonuses.

Winter 2024 bonuses in Japan averaged ¥891,460, a 4.93% increase reflecting the highest pay hikes in 33 years.

Japan to miss 2025 primary balance goal.

Japan's primary balance is projected to miss its budget target, with a deficit of ¥4.5 trillion for the upcoming fiscal year.

Tokyo to provide financial aid for students abroad.

Starting in 2026, Tokyo will offer financial aid up to ¥3.15 million for students studying abroad, regardless of income.

Tokyo couple re-arrested for ¥26 million insurance fraud murder.

A Tokyo couple was arrested for the fifth time, accused of poisoning family members to defraud an insurance company of ¥26 million.

Rakuten's Mikitani aims to issue bonds for Japanese investors.

Hiroshi Mikitani aims to sell more bonds to Japanese investors to diversify funding amid improving confidence in Rakuten's business.

Japanese onsen offers 99 types of soy sauce for visitors.

Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu in Saitama offers a unique onsen experience with a soy sauce bar and fermented food options.

Japan's producer price index reached an all-time high in 2024.

In 2024, the producer price index reached a record high, driven by rising material costs and fluctuations in various sectors.