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.

Japan had 37M foreign visitors in 2024.

Japan attracted nearly 37 million foreign visitors in 2024, surpassing previous records due to a weaker yen and increased flights.

Kyoto to increase accommodation tax to ¥10,000/night.

Kyoto plans to raise the accommodation tax to ¥10,000 per night to improve infrastructure and address overtourism issues.

2025 Sakura Forecast Released.

The Japan Meteorological Corporation has released initial sakura blooming dates for spring, aiding travel planning and enjoyment of cherry blossoms.

Japan to sell emergency rice stockpiles to reduce prices.

Japan plans to release emergency rice stockpiles to tackle record domestic prices, which have surged 60% in a year.

Man kicks bunny to death on Japan's Rabbit Island, possibly killing 77 more.

A man traveled across the country to kick rabbits on Rabbit Island, resulting in his arrest and investigation for multiple deaths.

Fuji Media stock up 1,767% amid scandal and shakeup speculation.

Fuji Media Holdings' trading volume soared 1,767% amid scandal, with investors hopeful for management changes and improved governance.

Ghibli Park introduces flexible, low-priced ticket system.

Ghibli Park is introducing new flexible and affordable ticket options starting this April, making visits easier for fans.

Government creating AI system to find vacant houses.

Japan's infrastructure ministry is using AI to identify vacant houses by analyzing local government data like water usage and resident records.

Man in Japan fired for skipping work 633 times to go to the gym.

Kazushi Kono was fired for skipping work 633 times to exercise at the gym during his shifts over three years.

Can aging Japan embrace digitalization inclusively?

A 76-year-old instructor teaches 17 seniors in Tokyo how to use smartphones in a hands-on session for beginners.

Tokyo assisting teachers with student loan repayment.

Tokyo will support student loan repayment for new teachers and civil servants by covering up to ¥1.5 million to address shortages.