Central bank guidance in focus as big four set rates for first time since Iran war
Plus, Nvidia talks AI chips, Rachel Reeves makes a pitch for closer EU ties and Japan’s prime minister heads to Washington
Plus, Nvidia talks AI chips, Rachel Reeves makes a pitch for closer EU ties and Japan’s prime minister heads to Washington

In her animated film Dandelion's Odyssey, Japanese director Momoko Seto explores the theme of migration – something seen across the natural world, as well as among human beings.
A highlight of my family's visit to Japan was going to Hakone, a town I had not heard of before this trip.
Asia Seeking US Energy to Reduce Mideast Reliance, Zeldin Says Bloomberg.com
Venezuela's offense explodes, fueled by clutch hits, to stun defending champions Japan and secure a long-awaited WBC semifinal berth.
Sayoko had never played football, but the Japan women's side inspired her to take up the game.

Japan's World Baseball Classic title defense ends with 8-5 quarterfinal loss to Venezuela as Shohei Ohtani and defending champions fall short of semifinals.
Toko Koga headed in two goals as Japan routed Philippines 7-0 on Sunday to advance to the Women’s Asian Cup semifinals and secure a spot in next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
As of 2020, women accounted for less than 20% of the workforce in the maritime transportation and construction sectors, far below the figure of more than 40% across all industries.
A former worker from the Fukushima nuclear plant has dedicated their life to rescuing and caring for pets left behind after the 2011 nuclear disaster, highlighting the long-term impact on animals.
The head of Japan's Komeito party has indicated openness to a potential integration with the Centrist Party, which currently consists solely of House of Representatives lawmakers.
64% of unmarried young women in Japan don't want children, exceeding men for 1st time: poll 毎日新聞
Japan states that dispatching its ships to the Middle East faces significant hurdles, indicating challenges in contributing to regional security efforts.
Japan's Seiya Suzuki left Saturday night's World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against Venezuela after appearing to hurt his left leg while he was caught stealing in the first inning. The Chicago Cubs outfielder walked with one out against Ranger Suárez and as he slid headfirst into second base appeared to hit his left leg hard on the base. At first ruled safe by second baseman umpire Maikol Tibibijo, Suzuki was called out in a video review.
Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani works in tandem with Will Ireton, who follows him all over the world, but he also comes with deep baseball knowledge.
Retro Japan: Natural light pours into Fukuoka Jo Gakuin school buildings 毎日新聞

Honda Projects First Loss Since 1957 - $15.7 Billion - Thanks To EV Strategy Fail Authored by Rob Sabo via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours), A reassessment of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., corporate electric vehicle (EV) strategy and planned cancellation of three EV models for the North American market could lead to losses totaling approximately $15.7 billion for its fiscal year ending March 31, the company said in a news release on March 12. A Honda SUV e: Prototype electric vehicle is...
Japan shipbuilding-related stock outperforms Nvidia, other AI shares Nikkei Asia
GE Vernova and Hitachi are exploring opportunities to build small nuclear reactors in Southeast Asia, indicating a strategic move to expand their presence in the region's energy sector.
Seven men, including individuals linked to yakuza, have been arrested in connection with a ¥420 million robbery that occurred in Tokyo in January.
Japan relies on the Middle East for around 11% of its LNG imports, with 6% shipped via the Strait of Hormuz.
Europe repaid Tokyo a favour by supporting oil stock release, Japan minister says The Straits Times

A 27-meter steel pipe rose 30 feet at an Osaka construction site due to buoyancy after water drainage. Authorities secured the area with no injuries reported.
GE Vernova and Hitachi are jointly exploring opportunities to introduce their BWRX-300 SMR reactor technology to countries in Southeast Asia.
Osaka allocates over $9.5 million to tackle overtourism issues in popular Minami district 毎日新聞
The number of operating Japanese firms was highest in the United Arab Emirates, at 709, followed by 473 in Israel.

A Japanese court sentenced a 44-year-old man to 14 years in prison for causing the death of a woman by forcing her to drink 32 shots of tequila, leading to acute alcohol poisoning during an attempted rape.
JR East has announced a 7.1% increase in its fares, marking the first such hike since the company's privatization in 1987.

Chief Justice Surya Kant said on Friday that mandatory menstrual leave for women could "adversely impact" their employment prospects.
An analyst suggests that Japan's energy import shock could have ripple effects on the yen carry trade and U.S. Treasuries, indicating potential financial market instability.
Honda Shocks Car World By Canceling Ambitious EV Program Forbes

Tunisia and Japan are set to make history in the 1,000th FIFA World Cup match at Monterrey Stadium. Discover the significance of this milestone. Read More: https://punchng.com/tunisia-japan-to-play-1000th-fifa-world-cup-match/
On a late winter morning, after two wet days in Tokyo, the sun is out; it’s as if Kanako Nishi’s energy has lifted the gray right out of the concrete.

Japan is reportedly ready to offer missiles and join Trump's 'Golden Dome' project, an ambitious initiative targeting a 2028 launch.
MUFG plans to closely monitor the liquidity impact of new loans as Japan increases its investment push into the United States, signaling potential shifts in financial flows.

Japanese authorities were investigating how a large steel cylinder suddenly emerged from the ground during sewer construction work and rose to the height of a four-storey building in the city of Osaka.
Fifteen years after the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, 80% of people in Japan still fear another major disaster.
Nikkei Asia reflects on Japan's tsunami 15 years after the disaster and the subsequent recovery and comeback of the Fukushima region.

Kazane Kajiya and four other women are challenging the constitutionality of Japan's decades-old 'maternity protection' law, which they argue imposes one of the world's most restrictive barriers to sterilization.

Women in Japan are challenging the constitutionality of the country's decades-old 'maternity protection' law, which they argue imposes one of the world's most restrictive barriers to sterilization and infringes on their reproductive rights.

Ninety-five per cent of Japan's oil imports are from the Middle East, with around 70 per cent passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
An analysis suggests that Japan's threshold for intervening in the yen market has increased, indicating a higher bar for action despite currency fluctuations.

The Japanese company’s retreat echoes moves by other traditional carmakers as the industry divides between electric vehicle haves and have-nots.
Japan’s Katayama Says Prepared to Take All Necessary Steps on FX Bloomberg.com

Kep1er will host its second fan meeting in Japan in May, agency Klap Entertainment announced Friday. Under the title “Kep1arcade,” the group will take the stage six times across three cities — Osaka, Tokyo and Nagoya. The members will meet fans about three years after their first fanmeet held in Tokyo, and over six months after their “Kep1asia” brought them to three cities in the country. On March 31, the group will release its eighth EP, “Crack Code,” marking its first album since it reorganize
The real significance of this WBC match lies beyond the stadium. It’s a signal that Tokyo and Taipei are testing how much Beijing can practically control their engagement.
The SHIELD defense system will involve more than 10 types of drones, including those for attacking enemy ships, collecting information and protecting radar sites.
A surge in leveraged bets in Asian markets is raising concerns among investors about a potential stock market rout, indicating speculative behavior and increased risk.
Paralympics: Record 11th medal for Muraoka marks new high in stellar career 毎日新聞
A Japanese soldier serving in Ukraine has shared his front-line experiences in the ongoing war, offering a unique perspective on the conflict.
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has once again shut down on pitching in the World Baseball Classic for Team Japan.
Toyota has introduced a redesigned hybrid SUV, emphasizing improved fuel efficiency and enhanced value for consumers.
As yen nears 160, forex intervention alarm bells stay silent Nikkei Asia
Where will the deployment of offensive missiles lead Japan?: Global Times editorial Global Times
Honda is writing down $15.7 billion on its EV division. Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images Honda said it booked a charge of up to $15.7 billion as it retreats from some EV plans. The Japanese automaker joins other global legacy automakers announcing billion-dollar EV charges. The Honda 0 Saloon, Honda 0 SUV, and Acura RSX EV are all canceled. It leaves Honda with one EV. Honda is taking a massive financial hit as it pulls back on its electric-vehicle ambitions. On Thursday, the Japanese ...
Several brand new Honda Preludes have reportedly been wrecked, with some vehicles showing less than 600 miles on the odometer.

"Pokémon Pokopia" is only available on the Switch 2, with Nintendo's share price rally this week built on hopes this might drive sales of the flagship console.

The TuttoFood exhibition was presented at the Italian Embassy in Tokyo, aiming to position Japan as a strategic market and a gateway for Italian agri-food products into the wider Asian region.
The iShares MSCI Japan ETF is highlighted as capturing a significant, once-in-a-generation transformation occurring within the Japanese stock market.
Honda announced a ¥2.5 trillion charge due to a global EV downturn and confirmed the cancellation of three planned EV models for the North American market.
Life insurance companies have joined global investors in a private debt market binge in search of higher yields.

A Japanese zoo caring for a baby monkey who has become an internet sensation was forced to issue a statement denying he was being bullied, following an outpouring of concern online.
The unexpected success of a new 'stealth hit' Pokémon game has significantly boosted sentiment for the Nintendo Switch 2 and sent Nintendo's shares soaring, providing a positive outlook for the company.
The table tennis medalist discusses his unlikely turn in the Oscar-nominated 'Marty Supreme' and returning to life in Aichi Prefecture.
In the first three games in Tokyo, Japan relied heavily on its three major league stars at the top of the batting order: Shohei Ohtani, Seiya Suzuki and Masataka Yoshida.

Boy group NexZ will take to the stage in Japanese arenas in May and June, label JYP Entertainment announced Thursday. It will be the group's second tour and its first time visiting such venues in Japan, where six of the members are originally from. The 2-year-old group will have two shows each in Tokyo and Osaka, on May 30-31 and on June 12-13, respectively. Its previous trip was held last summer, spanning 15 cities in Japan for 18 shows, through which it made its concert debut at Budokan in Tok
While Tokyo is becoming a test bed for the world’s leading robotaxi ventures, Japan is lagging when it comes to regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles.
Ibata took over as manager for Samurai Japan after the team won the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic has seen favorites Japan eliminated and MLB star Ronald Acuña Jr. had a lot to say after Venezuela’s win. Acuña Jr.
Tomahawk rips off Tokyo's 'pacifist' mask: China Daily editorial China Daily - Global Edition
Japan is reportedly considering a joint venture with the United States to develop rare earth deposits off Minamitorishima, though a Chinese expert has expressed doubts about its feasibility.
Japan has deployed its domestically produced Type-12 long-range surface-to-ship missiles near the East China Sea, a move analysts believe Beijing may interpret as crossing a "strategic threshold."…
A Japanese group of war-bereaved families has concluded its overseas memorial tours, with approximately 60 members undertaking a final five-day trip to Myanmar.

Japan handily beats the Philippines to advance to the semifinals of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup and qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup
On paper and on the field, Venezuela was the better team and proved it while advancing to the WBC semifinals.

Japan is the fifth-biggest importer of oil - 95 per cent of it from the Middle East and 70 per cent passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which is now effectively closed.
Japan's LDP policy chief Kobayashi aims for the new fiscal year budget to pass by year-end with opposition cooperation, while opposition parties criticize the ruling bloc's use of its majority as a threat to fiscal democracy.
The hike is intended to help sustainably realize robust pay increases outpacing inflation.
The Japanese government held its first briefing session with local residents regarding the potential selection of Minamitorishima island as a final disposal site for nuclear waste.

Japan has deployed its domestically produced long-range missiles near the East China Sea – a move that could be interpreted by Beijing as crossing a “strategic threshold”, analysts said. Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said on Monday that the upgraded Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles would be deployed at Camp Kengun in the southwestern Japanese prefecture of Kumamoto by the end of this month. Army vehicles carrying the first batch of missile launchers were reportedly spotted...

Drinks companies cut networks as rising costs and driver shortages undermine business model
Sumo: Aonishiki's promotion bid all but over as Hoshoryu stays among leaders 毎日新聞
Answer: Meet your match? Spot the difference #185 毎日新聞
Haiku Classic: March 15, 2026 -- Making one's bed and lying in it 毎日新聞
Japan and South Korea's finance ministers have affirmed their readiness to take action against foreign exchange volatility, following earlier expressions of serious concern over the weakening yen and won.

An article reflects on the 2011 magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami off the coast of Japan, framing it as a significant and costly 'science lesson' for Europe, likely in the context of nuclear safety or disaster preparedness.
Seven men, including members of the yakuza crime syndicate, were arrested in connection with a ¥420 million robbery that occurred in Tokyo in January.
Seven individuals, including senior members of groups linked to the Yamaguchi-gumi and Sumiyoshi-kai crime syndicates, have been arrested in connection with the robbery of ¥423 million in Tokyo.
Ohtani first appeared for Japan as an 18-year-old in 2012. On Saturday, he leads Samurai Japan against Venezuela in the WBC quarterfinals.
Here's the complete information for the quarterfinal matchup between Italy and Puerto Rico, from television channel to streaming options.
The prime minister delivered an address at the graduation ceremony of the National Defense Academy of Japan on Saturday.
The Mainichi News Quiz: What's the deal with that randoseru backpack on social media? 毎日新聞

For years, the West’s answer to Chinese dominance of critical minerals was to rally around Washington. Now, some of its most important allies are reaching a different conclusion: that depending too heavily on the United States carries its own risks. Japan, France and Canada have all been exploring how to build supply chains for rare earths and other critical minerals that answer to neither Beijing nor Washington. Senior officials from the three Group of Seven economies are working on...
This year marks six decades since Yamaha released its first acoustic folk guitar, the FG180, celebrating a long history in musical instrument manufacturing.
Tokyo's cherry blossoms to pop in days; full bloom by month's end Nikkei Asia
Lee Sang-il’s kabuki epic “Kokuho” led this year’s ceremony. See every award recipient from Japan’s biggest movie night.

Tokyo hosted the 51st edition of Foodex Japan, a significant trade fair for the food and beverage sector in the Asia-Pacific region, where Italy took a prominent role.
A giant steel pipe unexpectedly shot out of a highway in Osaka, Japan, rising 13 meters above ground, according to local authorities.
A man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for a rape attempt that resulted in the death of an intoxicated woman.
The Japanese government has approved a five-year basic plan for gender equality, which includes exploring legislation to allow individuals to use only their maiden names.
With anime fans flocking to theaters to revisit classics like “Tekkonkinkreet,” “Jin-roh” and “Macross Plus,” nostalgia is proving good business.
Long viewed as just a sweet sip, "umeshu" is now getting the spotlight, thanks to a growing breed of producers who are showcasing the exciting possibilities of the beverage.
Slovenia has begun releasing oil derivative reserves for the first time due to increased demand and shortages, while the US is also releasing supply from its strategic petroleum reserve. Japan has also announced it will sell oil from national reserves at pre-Iran war prices to manage domestic costs.
The measure, aimed at tackling the nation’s declining birth rate, was approved in a Cabinet meeting on Friday, with implementation eyed by fiscal 2028.
Easy Japanese news in translation: Straw mats taken off from pine trees in Shizuoka Pref. 毎日新聞

Japan and South Korea exposed to shortages of key component for plastics
Iran is undeterred and is widening the war, attacking regional targets to disrupt energy markets generally.
Netflix's exclusive WBC broadcasting deal in Japan draws mixed reactions 毎日新聞
An analysis suggests that Japan's threshold for intervening in the yen's value has increased, indicating a higher bar for government action to stabilize the currency.

Japan is set to join former President Trump's 'Golden Dome' project and expects to receive requests for missile production as US stocks are reportedly running low.
To succeed, Takaichi must deploy a disciplined mix of flattery and hard deliverables, demonstrating to the 47th U.S. president that Tokyo is taking its own security seriously.
EIG's MidOcean Energy is set to acquire an additional interest in the Gorgon LNG project from JERA, with both parties also exploring a strategic alliance to further their collaboration in the LNG sector. MidOcean Energy will increase its stake in the project.
Canada's numbers do not describe a country that has solved gender inequality. They suggest one that may be coasting on a progressive reputation not fully matched by outcomes.
Japan struggles to curb foreigner backcountry ski rescue operations 毎日新聞
Honda shares slide nearly 6% as automaker faces first annual loss Reuters
Japan's fraught energy diplomacy with Iran remains at mercy of US policy Nikkei Asia
The United States is making progress in discussions with the European Union and Japan regarding critical minerals, specifically focusing on establishing a price floor to stabilize markets and secure supply chains.
Honda is preparing for a substantial financial impact, estimated at Y2.5 trillion, following a strategic shift in its electric vehicle (EV) development and production plans.
Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) has been selected to supply an anti-jamming payload for Japan’s next-generation defense satellite communication system.
A report forecasts that Asia will be the primary driver of global Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) capacity additions by the year 2030.
Morgan Stanley has downgraded Honda to Equal Weight from Overweight, signaling a revised outlook for the automaker's stock.

Just 15 of the country’s 54 reactors have been reactivated due to expert skepticism and citizen mistrust
Giacomo Agostini has been left puzzled by Yamaha’s continued difficulties in MotoGP, especially considering the size and resources of the company. The Japanese manufacturer is on track to finish bottom of the constructors’ standings for a second consecutive year.
I got a full medical checkup during my trip to Japan. This preventive care taught me a lot about my health in an efficient way.
The rate fell to the lowest level since Takaichi's inauguration last October, but it remained relatively high after rising to 63.8% last month.
The prime minister said that while details about the use of sea mines are unclear, Japan wouldn’t be able to get involved in mine clearance as long as the conflict continues.
An anticancer drug found in a patient’s cerebrospinal fluid was not intended for use in the therapy he received.
Honda expects to incur a loss of up to $4.3 billion for fiscal year 2025/26 following a comprehensive review of its electric vehicle strategy.

Viral video of girl being shoved by fellow pedestrian has reignited debate over butsukari – with experts blaming stress and gender dynamics It starts out as a heartwarming clip.
A construction pipe inexplicably shot up 13 meters above ground in Osaka, leading to road closures and significant traffic congestion, for which the city's sewer department head apologized.
Nomura has expanded its foreign exchange trading team in Asia, anticipating increased demand driven by high market volatility.
The Mainichi News Quiz: What happened to foreign driver's license conversion tests? 毎日新聞

Stray Kids took home four awards at the 40th Japan Gold Disc Awards, according to the organizer on Thursday. The group won album of the year, best artist, music video of the year and was among the best 3 albums in Asia, scoring the most this year for an international artist. Stray Kids' third EP in Japan, “Hollow,” the group's first to be entirely made up of Japanese-language songs, was chosen as the album of the year and one of the best 3 Albums. Live Blu-ray documenting the group’s fan meetup
Yuki Ito ended a 26-month ski jumping winning drought as she soared to victory in Oslo in a Japanese one-two, while Slovenian champion Nika Prevc suffered a second worst result of the season in sixth place. Ito rose from fourth to first with 127 and 126.

Japanese football legend says his opinion prompts US company to cancel advertising campaign before FIFA World Cup.
This article discusses whether Japan's actions or policies could lead it to become a source of conflict in the Asia-Pacific region once more.
Four-time MVP Shohei Ohtani was left to answer questions after Japan's shocking loss.
Japan plans to release its oil reserves, while the US encourages buying American products, indicating global economic and energy policy shifts amidst international tensions.

Seven men, including suspected members of organized crime groups, have been arrested in Japan for allegedly robbing approximately 420 million yen (US$2.6 million) in Tokyo's Ueno District earlier this year.
Japan has announced plans to release its oil stocks, a move that comes as the United States advocates for a 'Buy American' policy. This development highlights ongoing international economic and energy policy discussions.
Japan is expected to face a challenging debate over a proposed national intelligence council bill, as the government emphasizes the severe and complex security environment since World War II.
Venezuela reached its first WBC semis since 2009 and clinched a spot in the six-nation field for the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament.
The industry minister said that the region depends on imports for more than 80% of its energy compounding the damage caused by the conflict between U.S.-Israeli forces and Iran.
64% of unmarried young women in Japan don't want children, exceeding men for 1st time: poll 毎日新聞
Around 320 people, including survivors and bereaved relatives, prayed for over 700 patients who died due to their HIV infections caused by the tainted blood.
Japan failed to reach the semifinals for the first time at the World Baseball Classic.
Japanese wholesaler Kokubu is investing in sake brewery tours, aiming to attract wealthy international tourists and capitalize on the growing interest in Japanese cultural experiences.
Italy chased Puerto Rico starter Seth Lugo with four runs in the first inning en route to an 8-6 quarterfinal victory on Saturday in Houston.

The Japanese government is reportedly considering integrating Ukrainian-made drones into its defense arsenal, based on Ukraine's advanced production technology. Japanese media reports indicate that Japan is weighing a new deal with Kyiv for these drones.
The Japanese government is considering introducing Ukraine-made attack drones to bolster its defense capabilities, banking on the Eastern European country's combat experience against Russian military aggression.
Here's how to watch Japan play Venezuela at the 2026 World Baseball Classic quarterfinals tonight.
At 19 years, six months and 17 days Antonelli became the youngest Formula One driver ever to take pole position for a full grand prix.
Finance Ministers Satsuki Katayama of Japan and Koo Yun-cheol of South Korea have expressed serious concern over the recent sharp depreciation of the Korean won and the Japanese yen, indicating readiness to act against forex volatility.

Carmaker’s decision to drop NissanConnect EV app on relatively recent cars fuels warnings from experts Owners of some Nissan Leaf electric vehicles are angry after the carmaker announced it would shut down an app that lets them remotely control battery charging and other functions. Drivers of Leaf cars made before May 2019 and the e-NV200 van (produced until 2022) have been told that the NissanConnect EV app linked to their vehicles will “cease operation” from 30 March. This means they will l...
The highest-ranked team in the competition and the only Asian side to win the World Cup, Japan has been clinical so far with three wins from three games in the group phase.

Fifteen years on from the Fukushima catastrophe in Japan, what can the work of diverse photographers reveal about the region and its residents?
Westinghouse announced that the U.S. and Japan have reached an agreement on their respective roles in a potential nuclear power project, as nations seek to diversify energy resources against supply shocks.
The Japanese and U.S. governments are reportedly working to issue a joint document to confirm their cooperation on key minerals.
Japanese‑Peruvian menu for individual dining or sharing in KL The Star | Malaysia

This country has had a city serving as its de facto capital since 1868, but no statute, law, or constitutional provision formally designates it as the nation's capital.
From Anaheim, California to Dublin, Ireland — with a stop in Yokohama, Japan along the way — what should be catching the eye of boxing fans this weekend?
Steven Borden Jr., the son of Sting, is set to make his New Japan Pro-Wrestling debut at its upcoming Academy third anniversary showcase.
Japan has approved a bill to establish a new intelligence body, a move that Chinese experts believe will stir up tensions in the Asia-Pacific region and fuel the resurgence of Japanese militarism.

Traffic in Osaka, Japan, was halted after residents discovered a massive steel pipe had mysteriously emerged from the ground.
The author and her husband traveled to Japan as empty nesters. Courtesy of Erika Ebsworth-Goold My husband and I decided to go to Japan for our first trip since becoming empty nesters. We loved…
The defendant, Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton, and prosecutors filed their waivers of the right to appeal with the Fukuoka High Court this week.
MUFG plans to closely monitor the liquidity impact of new loans as Japan increases its investment push into the United States.
Japan to consider whether to buy Russian crude following US sanctions waiver Reuters
Junya Ogawa has held back on grilling government leaders, something that opposition parties usually prefer doing, and instead tried to focus on policy debate.
Japan to Sell Oil From National Reserves at Pre-Iran War Prices Bloomberg.com

A Tokyo high-flyer tries to befriend her favourite blogger in a novel that wears its aura of black comedy lightly, and its political statements more heavily Asako Yuzuki’s international bestseller…

Japanese automaker Honda's shares have plunged following a $15.7 billion EV write-down, triggering its first annual loss since 1957, as it adjusts its electric vehicle strategy due to policy changes and reduced competitiveness.
Japan’s currency is approaching a key red line that could trigger intervention.
The Japanese government spent some $16.5 billion on official development assistance in 2024, according to the latest white paper on cooperation and development.
Breakingviews - SoftBank's wartime bet on PayPay IPO is shrewd Reuters
Japan's finance minister has stated that the country is prepared to intervene in currency markets to counter sharp fluctuations in the yen.
Japan ready to join Trump’s ‘Golden Dome’: Report The Straits Times
The Japanese government has confirmed the detention of a Japanese national by Iranian authorities on January 20 and is actively urging Tehran for their release.

IPOH, March 13 — The Perak state government has assured that the well-being of three elephants from the Taiping Zo...
Global efforts to diversify critical minerals supply chains intensified after Beijing last year imposed sweeping export controls, including on rare earths.
Honda's shares fell by more than 5% as the automaker anticipates its first annual loss, signaling financial challenges for the company.

From Japan’s Seto Inland Sea to Vietnam’s secluded bays, these coastal breaks pair straightforward access with resorts and villas worth planning around.
Japan, facing a decline in its traditional mitsumata shrub, has found a new source for its yen currency production in a low-value crop from the foothills of the Himalayas.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are heavily invested in Shohei Ohtani, to the tune of a deferral-laden $700 million contract that expires in 2033. Team Japan only needs Ohtani at his best for the next six days in order to win…
Nissan inks robotaxi partnership with Uber and Wayve AzerNews

India's Supreme Court has allowed the withdrawal of a plea seeking the return of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's mortal remains from a Tokyo temple, stating it prefers his daughter, Anita Bose Pfaff, to approach the court directly.
Morgan Stanley has increased its price target for Mazda Motor to 1,200 yen from 1,100 yen, signaling a more optimistic outlook for the automaker's stock.
A Boston Red Sox pitcher draws a World Baseball Classic start against Japan this Saturday night.
Japan's imperial couple is expected to undertake visits to the Netherlands and Belgium in June.

Uber, Nissan, and autonomous driving company Wayve are collaborating to launch a robotaxi pilot program in Tokyo by the end of 2026, integrating Wayve's AI-powered autonomous driving system into Nissan LEAF vehicles, with Mainichi English also reporting on the tie-up. The latest reports confirm the testing is slated for late 2026.

A video showing a Korean child being pushed by a passerby at a convenience store in Japan has sparked anger online after it spread widely on social media. The footage, posted on Instagram by the child’s mother, shows a woman forcefully shoving the girl with a bag as she walks past inside the store. The child, who had been browsing snacks with her father, appears startled and immediately runs toward her mother. “While I was filming in a convenience store after finishing our schedule, the woman fi
Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi has expressed support for Education Minister Yohei Matsumoto following allegations of an extramarital affair reported by Bunshun Online.
Although some 60% of the victims were small and midsize companies, there were cases in which serious damage was inflicted on large companies.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the commitment hours before the IEA announced the unprecedented coordinated effort by 32 nations.
Japan's main bank lobby plans to establish risk guidelines for leveraged loans, as smaller regional banks become more active in this market due to a shrinking population impacting their traditional lending operations.
With a net worth of $61.8 billion, Tadashi Yanai, chair and CEO of Uniqlo clothing chain operator Fast Retailing, ranked 32nd on the U.S. business magazine's list.
Tepco announced it will maintain its goal of decommissioning the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant by 2051, with key tasks for debris removal and fuel recovery planned for the coming year.
The Mainichi News Quiz Answer for March 12 毎日新聞
Former members of Japan's disbanded Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) factions have been holding informal meetings following the party's significant victory in the Feb. 8 Lower House election, raising questions about a potential comeback.