Asian alternative asset manager PAG plans to significantly increase its investment in Japan, targeting $13 billion in deals over the next three to four years. The investments will focus on real estate and private equity sectors.
Analysts state that common security interests in the region have led to Japan's unprecedented sharing of its Mogami-class warship designs with India, aligning with New Delhi’s efforts to localize industrial and defense production.
Police in Tokyo are searching for a man who attacked students with a hammer and fled the scene. An arrest warrant has been issued for attempted murder as authorities continue their pursuit.
The Japanese yen has fallen to its weakest level since July 2024, trading at ¥160 to the dollar, a level that could prompt currency market intervention. This depreciation comes as Brent crude oil prices reach $120 a barrel.
Asian shares experienced a decline as Brent crude oil reached a four-year high, while bond markets were negatively impacted by hawkish stances from central banks.
The Hinode Sai, or Sunrise Festival, is being celebrated high above Tokyo on Mount Mitake to mark the arrival of spring. The festival is believed to have originated from wandering ascetics seeking enlightenment.
A major Japanese airport has begun trials of humanoid robots to assist with baggage and cargo handling operations. Early reports indicate mixed results regarding the robots' performance.
Japan's Prime Minister has confirmed the country's continued transit through the Strait of Hormuz, even as diplomatic talks with Iran are ongoing. This statement comes amidst regional tensions.
While the town lifted evacuation orders in most areas as the fire is being brought under control, there is still no clear timeline for full containment.
A Japanese safety watchdog, the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation, is urging consumers to replace old fixtures when switching to LED lighting, citing over 50 fire incidents linked to aging fixtures reported in the last decade.
Cash register manufacturers in Japan are pushing for a 1% food tax rate, arguing that implementing a 0% rate would require significantly more time and new system development.
Japan is expected to pass a bill that will raise immigration fees. If approved by the House of Councilors, the new fees would be implemented within the current fiscal year, which concludes next March.
Akihiro Ondo, CEO of Mitsubishi Power Asia Pacific, outlined a pragmatic, system-wide approach to balance reliability, affordability, and decarbonisation as power demand rises across Asia.
Thailand anticipates a decrease in Japanese tourist arrivals during the Golden Week holiday due to a 6% drop in seat capacity and flight cancellations, impacting the tourism sector.
Japan is exploring the possibility of incorporating participation in language programs as a factor in its residency screenings for foreign nationals. This consideration comes in response to calls from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party to address issues between Japanese and foreign residents.
Japan has scrapped a decades-old ban on exporting lethal weapons, a move aimed at bolstering its allies amidst intensifying security tensions with China and North Korea.
A town in western Japan, facing challenges from an aging and shrinking population, is undergoing drastic reforms through a strategy of 'smart downsizing' to adapt to demographic changes.
Cherry blossoms have flowered earlier than their 20-year average for the seventh consecutive year, an observation cited as evidence of a planet experiencing environmental changes.
The Bank of Japan decided to keep its key interest rates unchanged but raised its inflation forecast, signaling a 'hawkish hold' stance. This decision, influenced by concerns over global conflicts, led to a strengthening of the yen and a split vote among policymakers.
Asian stock markets are showing mixed performance, with Seoul stocks boosted by a tech rally, while broader markets remain subdued as investors await earnings. The Bank of Japan's decision to hold rates and a surge in oil prices are also influencing market sentiment, testing Wall Street's record momentum.
The Japanese government is reportedly weighing the acquisition of a 'golden share' in Tepco to maintain oversight of the utility company, according to TV Tokyo.
Deep-tech startups from Southeast Asia are increasingly turning to Japan for investment and market expansion, aiming to leverage its advanced technological ecosystem for growth.
The number of Japanese medical tourists visiting South Korea is projected to reach approximately 600,000 in 2025, marking a 36% increase from the previous year.
Japan's finance minister announced the country's readiness to act '24 hours' a day to address significant swings in its currency, signaling potential intervention.
An editorial argues that Japan's increased residency fees are imposing an excessive financial burden on foreigners living in the country, calling for a review of the policy.
Ventas reported FFO of $0.94 and revenue of $1.66 billion, both surpassing analyst estimates. Meanwhile, Advantest announced its GAAP EPS of ¥513.30 and revenue of ¥1128.6 billion.
Japanese politician Takaichi emphasized the need for sustainable combat capacity for protracted warfare during the first expert panel meeting on security document revisions. She highlighted the current security environment as a reason for this focus.
A Japanese research team, analyzing 70-million-year-old fossilized octopus jaws, has estimated that ancient octopuses could reach lengths between seven and 19 meters, suggesting they were giant predators in Cretaceous oceans.
Japan has lifted its special earthquake advisory, issued after a powerful 7.7-magnitude quake, though officials still caution about potential future tremors.
The artificial intelligence model ChatGPT has successfully passed the entrance examinations for several of Japan's top universities. It reportedly achieved the highest scores on these challenging tests.
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 to 6.2 struck Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. Authorities reported no tsunami warning was issued and there were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties.
Tokyo-based developer Goldcrest has sold the Pasona Square office building in Aoyama for approximately $628 million. The property was acquired by a condo seller in a significant real estate transaction.
The Bank of Japan is anticipated to keep its interest rate steady, as it assesses the impact of the Iran war and prepares to lift its inflation forecast.
Japan is experiencing a record number of bear sightings as hibernation ends, leading to alarm after a woman's body was found and a police officer was injured in separate incidents.
Japanese macaques are increasingly bold, stealing crops like persimmons and daikons from farming districts in Shimane, posing a challenge to local agriculture.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has stated that she is ruling out an extra budget for the time being. This decision indicates a cautious approach to fiscal policy amidst current economic conditions.
Japan's transport ministry has initiated safety training for visually impaired individuals on train platforms. This measure aims to prevent falls and accidents while the installation of platform screen doors is still underway.
A handwritten letter from novelist Ryotaro Shiba, sent in December 1989 to poet Yoko Maki, the wife of the late writer Takeshi Kaiko, has been found. The letter contains Shiba's praise for his fellow writer.
Japan's Nikkei stock index reached a new intraday high above 60,000 points, driven by gains in technology shares. This marks a significant milestone for the Japanese market.
Japanese chip toolmaker Tokyo Electron has reportedly severed its relationship with an executive. This decision follows reports linking the executive to rival companies in China.
Tokyo-based translator Simona Stanzani and illustrator Luca Tieri, inspired by Japanese culture, have successfully carved out creative careers in Japan.
A historical article introduces Tsutomu Yamaguchi, the only officially recognized survivor of both the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II.
Local governments in Japan are offering financial incentives, up to $125, for single residents to join dating apps as part of an effort to reverse the nation's severe demographic decline.
Denso, a part of the Toyota Motor group, is reportedly finding it difficult to secure support from chipmaker Rohm for its acquisition offer, leading to considerations of withdrawal.
The Malacca Strait, a critical maritime chokepoint, has come under renewed focus due to the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. It serves as the shortest sea route connecting East Asia to the Middle East and Europe, handling a significant portion of global trade.
A flame originating from the ruins of the Hiroshima atomic bombing is set to be incorporated into a ceremony at Pearl Harbor, symbolizing peace and remembrance.
Japan has received its first shipment of US crude oil since the start of the Iran war, as the government accelerates efforts to diversify its oil procurement away from Middle Eastern suppliers.
A Japanese minister visited the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant for inspection, following the restart of commercial operations for its No. 6 reactor on April 16.
SoftBank is reportedly planning to list its new artificial intelligence and robotics spinout, named Roze, in the United States. The potential US IPO could value the new company at an estimated $100 billion.
Japan's factory output experienced a decline in March, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, specifically the Iran war, began to cloud the demand outlook for manufacturers.
Mitsubishi, Japan's largest trading firm, successfully raised €1 billion through its first euro-denominated bond offering in February, signaling a historic shift in funding strategies.
An event marking 100 years since the beginning of Japan's Showa Era was attended by Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and approximately 5,620 others, including Takaichi.
A new test flight by SkyDrive over Tokyo Bay showcased Japan's progress in developing flying cars, while also underscoring the significant challenges that still need to be overcome for their widespread adoption.
The US Marine Corps is rapidly establishing new counter-drone teams after stress tests revealed significant vulnerabilities in their defenses against drone threats.
Japan Airlines is conducting a trial of humanoid robots at Tokyo's Haneda Airport to assist with baggage handling and other tasks. This initiative aims to address deepening labor shortages within the aviation industry.
Nursing homes in Japan are actively recruiting bodybuilders, wrestlers, and MMA fighters to work as care staff. This initiative aims to leverage their physical strength and discipline in elder care.
A podcast discusses Sanae Takaichi, described as Japan's heavy metal-loving prime minister, and her plans to amend the country's pacifist constitution.
Plans to build a mosque in Fujisawa, a city southwest of Tokyo, have become the latest flashpoint for Muslim communities in Japan, as a growing need for places of worship meets resistance from some…
A groundbreaking survey conducted by Japan's Children and Families Agency found that approximately 15% of hospitals in the country have reported incidents of sexual abuse.
A Japanese-linked supertanker carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil, loaded from Saudi Arabia, may have exited the Strait of Hormuz, marking a potential first during the ongoing conflict.
An exhibition in Japan is showcasing the lifelong dedication of scholar Donald Keene to the study and appreciation of the Japanese poet Takuboku Ishikawa.
A new study has revealed that the brains of dogs began to shrink at least 5,000 years ago, a change potentially linked to their domestication and interaction with humans.
An individual who moved to Japan four months ago shares their surprises about daily life, particularly the high cost of fruit and the country's efficient transit system.
An international crackdown on child sexual abuse material has led to arrests in multiple countries, including Serbia and Japan. In Japan, 99 individuals were accused as part of this global effort.
A female prosecutor in Japan, who accused Osaka's then-top prosecutor of raping her six years prior, is set to resign after her request for an official investigation into the matter was rejected, highlighting the rarity of such public accusations in Japan.
Japanese soccer fans have gained international recognition for their tradition of cleaning up stadiums and picking up trash after World Cup matches, a practice first noticed in 1998.
Ageing workers are increasingly vital for East Asian economies, yet they frequently encounter significant employment barriers and limited palatable options.
An AP News report explores the cultural lesson behind Japan's practice of cleaning up stadiums after World Cup matches, likening it to a bird leaving nothing behind.
Japan's Lower House has approved new legislation that will raise out-of-pocket costs for over-the-counter-like drugs by 25% starting March 2027, excluding those for cancer and other intractable diseases.
New Zealand has abandoned plans to install a statue commemorating 'comfort women' from World War II in Auckland, following strong diplomatic protests from Japan which warned of jeopardized relations.
Nippon Express shares surged after activist investor Elliott Management disclosed it had acquired a 5% stake in the Japanese logistics company. This move marks Elliott's latest significant investment in Japan.
A zoo employee in Hokkaido has confessed to burning his wife's body in an incinerator, leading the zoo to postpone its summer opening as it cooperates with the investigation.
Japan Airlines (JAL) and GMO Internet Group are collaborating to test humanoid robots for various ground operations at airports, exploring automation in aviation.
Daiwa Securities Group is set to acquire Orix Bank for $2.3 billion, a move aimed at expanding its lending operations. The merger will create an entity with approximately ¥9 trillion in total assets, with plans to increase deposits by over ¥2 trillion in the next five years.
Global oil prices saw an increase due to ongoing unrest in the Middle East, while the Japanese yen firmed following the Bank of Japan's decision to hold its monetary policy.
A Japanese firefighter sergeant has been suspended for six months after he was found to have coerced his colleagues into playing homemade board games during duty hours, an act he considered team-building but was deemed harassment.
US, Japan reportedly set to launch co-op framework for dual-use defense tech; move signals another aggressive shift by Japan; serving US ends: Chinese expert Global Times
Members of a Japanese government panel are advocating for a comprehensive review of the education system to better integrate and adapt to artificial intelligence advancements.
Large wildfires are currently raging across northern Japan, prompting the deployment of hundreds of firefighters to combat the blazes. One notable effort involves a tsunami survivor actively battling a wildfire to protect his hometown in Iwate Prefecture.
A Japanese startup is seeking approval for a new treatment for cat kidney disease, following trials that demonstrated the drug significantly extended the life of afflicted felines.
Traditional Japanese bathhouses, known as sento, are facing significant challenges due to rising oil prices and dwindling supply, partly attributed to the Iran war. This situation is forcing some establishments to adjust their operating hours to cope with increased costs.
Investors in Asia are prioritizing exposure to AI-driven industries, leading to a market divide where economies exposed to higher energy costs are penalized, while the AI boom overshadows geopolitical concerns.
Tokyo has declared its ambition to transform into the world's most start-up-friendly city. The initiative raises questions about the feasibility and potential success of its efforts to attract and foster new businesses.
Toyota reported a second consecutive monthly sales decline in March, attributed to the RAV4 model changeover and disruptions in the Middle East, including concerns over the Iran conflict.
Japan's Nikkei stock average surged, eclipsing the 60,000 mark and setting a new record high. This rise contributed to generally higher trading across Asian indexes.
Marudai has released its financial forecasts for the 2025/26 fiscal year, detailing projections for both dividend payouts and the parent company's performance.
K-pop duo TVXQ drew 130,000 fans to Nissan Stadium in Japan for two shows, marking their 20th Japanese debut anniversary and becoming the first and most frequent overseas act to perform there.
Justin McCurry on the political rise of the Japanese prime minister and her plan to amend rules constraining the country’s military
Japan’s prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, plans to amend the…
The Bank of Japan is anticipated to keep its interest rates unchanged, a decision that carries messaging risks for Governor Ueda as the Japanese Yen faces volatility.
The Japan Forestry Agency has announced expectations for a good harvest of beech nuts this year, which are a crucial food source for bears in the region.
A significant wildfire in northeast Japan has expanded, burning 1,300 hectares and forcing over 3,000 residents to evacuate their homes. Firefighting efforts are continuing to contain the blaze.
Japan is considering revising its Self-Defense Forces Act to allow the export of surplus defense equipment, a move a Chinese expert views as pushing Tokyo toward remilitarization.
The director of the upcoming film "Godzilla Minus One" has stated that the new installment will bring the iconic monster closer to audiences than ever before. This suggests a more immersive or impactful viewing experience for the film.
A Japanese underground idol has stirred an online debate by offering fans the unusual perk of sniffing her armpits, attracting over 400,000 social media followers.
A survey by Tokyo Shoko Research indicates that tighter visa criteria are causing significant strain for foreign business owners in Japan, with about 5% considering closing their operations and 45% expecting impacts.
Citi's Japan banking head is pursuing double-digit revenue growth in client-driven businesses and aims for the bank to be among the top three foreign banks in key Japanese operations.
The city of Izumisano in Osaka is pushing for the early launch of its own 'baby hatch' system, an initiative driven by Mayor Hiroyasu Chiyomatsu's belief in protecting lives.
K-pop group Tomorrow X Together (TXT) announced they will offer live viewings of their upcoming concert in Nagoya, Japan, to fans in 53 regions worldwide, including Korea, the US, and Canada.
Japan's industrial production index for March unexpectedly fell by 0.5% month-on-month, marking the second consecutive decline in manufacturing activity.
A discussion on the need for new tourism success metrics, arguing that current measures like arrivals and revenue often overlook the strain on local communities, with examples from Japan to India.
A zoo employee in Japan is under police investigation for allegedly disposing of his wife's body in an animal incinerator at the facility. The incident has led to the zoo in Hokkaido delaying its reopening as authorities search for remains.
A zoo employee in Japan has been accused of allegedly disposing of his wife's body by incinerating it within the zoo's facilities. Authorities are investigating the shocking incident.
A Japanese politician, Takaichi, pledged support for wage increases at a May Day event, with the prime minister also calling for cooperation to achieve sustained wage hikes that surpass inflation.
An exhibition on atomic bombings, organized by the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize winner, the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, has opened at the U.N. headquarters during the NPT review.
Rei Onoda, a former flight attendant, returned to Japan and, with her husband, left Tokyo to open a bakery in the Japanese countryside, seeking a quieter life.
A new initiative in north-east Japan allows hotel guests to contribute to animal welfare, providing a novel way to support local animal protection efforts.
Tokyo-based Terra Drone is increasing its investment in Ukraine's drone industry, aiming to bring battlefield-tested technology back to Japan to capitalize on a growing defense budget for unmanned systems.
An analysis suggests that Japan's increasing remilitarization could have broader implications and pose threats not only to China but also to regional stability. The article discusses the exercise of navigation rights by the US and its allies.
Toyota's suppliers are beginning to experience significant supply chain disruptions and material shortages. These issues are directly linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Iran.
The Japanese government is showing hesitation regarding energy-saving measures, despite calls for action, amidst the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran.
Japan is exploring plans for the world's first transmission of space-based solar power to Earth, marking a significant step in renewable energy technology.
Denso has announced growth in its fiscal year 2026 revenue and profit, indicating a positive financial performance. Meanwhile, UPS is actively planning a return to growth after experiencing a decline in its profit and revenue.
Bitcoin's value has declined following the Bank of Japan's hawkish decision to maintain its policy, which has reignited concerns over carry trade dynamics.
Investor Paul Tudor Jones has expressed concerns about excessive leverage and S&P 500 valuations as the index reaches new highs. He also sees potential investment opportunities in Japan.
Japan Airlines is conducting a trial at a Japanese airport to use humanoid robots for ground handling tasks, including baggage handling. This initiative aims to explore the potential of robotics in airport operations.
Reports indicate that most human traders in prediction markets are losing money, while automated bots are consistently racking up gains. This trend highlights the growing influence of AI in financial forecasting.
An exhibition focusing on atomic bomb history and its impact has opened at the United Nations headquarters, coinciding with a Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) meeting.
Kyoto has solidified its status as a gourmet capital with Miyamaso earning three stars in the latest Michelin Guide Kyoto & Osaka, marking the first new three-starred entry since 2020 and bringing the city's total to six.
Recent statements by Japanese officials echo Japanese militarists of the past, FM says in response to Takaichi’s call for preparation for ‘new forms of warfare’ and protracted warfare Global Times
An article argues that revising Japan's constitutional Article 9 would be a mistake, suggesting that the current distance between constitutional language and security practice does not require correction.
Nissan revised its financial forecast from an anticipated loss to a profit, causing its shares to rise. The carmaker cited the removal of U.S. emissions-related charges, a favorable foreign-exchange impact, and improved cost performance for the positive outlook.
Amid lingering tensions in the Middle East, Takaichi has entrusted former Prime Minister Kishida with a letter for the Philippine president. The move aims to accelerate cooperation between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in energy and other fields.
Nissan has revised its operating profit forecast for fiscal year 2025 upwards to 50 billion yen, primarily attributing the improved outlook to the weaker Japanese yen.
Japan's decision to relax its weapons export regulations is seen by some as a departure from its postwar pacifist identity, raising questions about its rearmament.
Hitachi has announced its latest financial results, reporting a GAAP Earnings Per Share (EPS) of ¥176.76. The company also posted a total revenue of ¥10,586.7 billion for the period.
Citi announced plans to boost its investment banking operations in Japan and China. The expansion includes hiring senior sector-focused personnel to strengthen its teams in these key Asian markets.
Japan's Takaichi is facing a growing backlash, particularly from women new to political activism, over her government's push to revise the country’s pacifist constitution and expand its role in arms exports.
Denso is reportedly considering withdrawing from its planned acquisition of Rohm as negotiations have stalled. The company is evaluating its options regarding the deal, which could see the pursuit ended.
Nissan has updated its financial forecast, now projecting an operating profit for the recently concluded fiscal year, a positive shift from previous expectations.
Japan plans to tighten regulations on over-the-counter drug sales to combat a surge in acute poisoning and addiction cases among youth, which have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new book aims to clarify "Sanaenomics," featuring proposals from Takaichi, who advocates for investment, and Aida, who suggests a "high-pressure economy" where government intervention addresses demand outstripping supply.
Asia's largest startup convention, SusHi Tech Tokyo, is currently underway, connecting startups, large corporations, and investors. Organizers anticipate the event will facilitate 10,000 business negotiations.
Nissan announced it would revise its financial outlook, moving from a previously forecast loss to an expected profit for the fiscal year. The automaker raised its operating profit forecast.
The Japanese public is expressing a strong desire for the government to implement energy-saving measures. However, a key figure, Takaichi, appears to be holding back or resisting these calls.
Japan's government has decided against imposing fuel-saving measures, expressing confidence in its energy strategy to secure alternative oil supplies amidst disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz blockade.
Japan is reportedly moving to tighten its regulations concerning shareholder proposals, a decision that comes amidst growing pushback against activist investors. The new rules aim to address concerns raised by corporations regarding shareholder activism.
Asian markets exhibited mixed results today, with Japan's Nikkei 225 surging to new record highs driven by technology stocks and the AI boom, while rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions, particularly involving Iran, tempered investor sentiment.
Japan's Nikkei average has surpassed the 60,000 mark, achieving an all-time closing high. This significant milestone reflects strong performance in the Japanese stock market.
Chef Kyle Connaughton reflects on his career, influenced by "kaiseki" and California farming, as he reconnects with Japan through his Kyoto restaurant.
Changes in the political landscape as a result of the general election have raised uncertainties over the incumbent governor's backers and their position on a U.S. military base.
CJ Olive Young is expanding its global reach by launching its first K-beauty festival tour in Japan next month. The 'Olive Young Festa Japan 2026' will take place from May 8 to 10 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba.
Japan is planning to construct what could become the world's largest floating wind farm off the Izu Islands, a gigawatt-scale project intended to power the island chain and Tokyo by 2035.
A new survey highlights that Japanese families still face significant hidden costs despite the provision of free private high school tuition, indicating financial burdens beyond official fees.
Ahead of the ONE SAMURAI 1 event on April 29 in Tokyo, five key questions are being discussed, promising fans a memorable night with emotional farewell bouts and World Championships.
Over 1,400 firefighters have been deployed to northern Japan, including Iwate prefecture, to combat extensive wildfires that have been burning for days and forced thousands of residents to evacuate.
Radio Taiso, or 'Exercise Radio', is a simple yet dynamic nearly century-old Japanese tradition of morning exercises broadcast daily, serving as a popular way to start the day.
A picturesque Japanese town is experiencing significant challenges with large crowds of unruly tourists during the cherry blossom season, prompting residents to seek solutions.