Family Mart rebrands as Family Nyart for Cat Day, launching new cat-themed sweets.

Family Mart will celebrate Cat Day with limited-edition cat-themed treats and merchandise, donating part of profits to animal welfare.

Canadian missionary experienced spiritual transformation in Shikoku.

David Moreton, an expert on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage, guides tourists and promotes its cultural significance and community traditions.

Nana’s Green Tea unveils sakura treats for cherry blossom season in Japan.

Nana’s Green Tea in Japan offers unique sakura-themed parfaits and lassis, featuring cherry blossoms and matcha, for spring.

Japan may relax privacy rules to support AI growth.

Japan's privacy agency may drop consent requirements for using sensitive personal data to boost AI development while ensuring personal rights.

Berkshire increasing investments in Japan trading firms.

Berkshire Hathaway plans to gradually increase its ownership in Japan's largest trading houses, supporting their share prices, according to Buffett.

Emperor turns 65, hopes for peace 80 years post-WWII.

Emperor Naruhito, turning 65, hopes the 80th anniversary of WWII's end inspires a renewed commitment to world peace.

Japanese films awarded at Berlin Film Festival.

"Futsu no Seikatsu" won the Silver Bear at Berlin Film Festival, while "Umibe e Iku Michi" received a Special Mention.

Japan faces matcha shortages.

Last year's matcha demand strained Japan's tea industry, causing shortages, particularly for first-flush matcha now favored by consumers.

Sleep in a futuristic space pod hotel near Tokyo.

Hotel Galaxy Pod in Saitama offers an affordable space-themed capsule experience just outside Tokyo, starting at around $26 per night.

Starbucks Japan launches matcha cherry blossom Frappuccino for sakura season.

Starbucks is releasing two special cherry blossom drinks: a Matcha Frappuccino and a Hojicha Latte with sakura mochi.

Website launched 30 years post-Tokyo subway sarin attack.

The Public Security Intelligence Agency launched a website to educate the public about the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attack.

War book for students gaining popularity in Japan.

A Japanese book explains wars to junior high students, using manga and the Ukraine invasion, marking the invasion's third anniversary.