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Donald Trump Warns Japan, South Korea: 25% Tariffs Coming

July 7, 2025, 10:34 pm

US President Donald Trump on Monday announced that he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on Japanese and South Korean goods from August 1.

Letters Sent to Global Leaders

The new tariff announcement is made as Trump announced that he would be sending letters to the leaders of ten countries on Monday.

The US president made the announcement on his social media site Truth Social, where he published copies of letters that he wrote to the leaders of each nation.

Donald Trump Issues Warning Against Retaliation

The letters to the South-East Asian nations cautioned them against retaliating through raising their own import duties or else the US administration would raise import duties which could negatively impact the auto and electronics industries of Japan and South Korea.

“If for any reason you decide to raise your Tariffs, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 25 per cent that we charge,” Trump said in the letters to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung.

India Also on the Radar of US President Donald Trump

India is also expected to receive the much-awaited tariff letter from the US President today. New Delhi and Washington have been engaged in comprehensive negotiations for a bilateral trade deal.

The two nations’ agreement is to be finalized before the July 9 deadline, after which India (16 per cent pending and 10 per cent in place) will face a tariff of 26 per cent.

Broader Strategy to Rebalance Trade

Trump’s move signals a renewed wave of economic nationalism as he eyes tighter trade balances with key Asian exporters. Analysts believe this strategy is aimed at pushing for greater leverage in upcoming trade talks while energizing his voter base ahead of the 2025 political cycle.

Both Japan and South Korea are among the top five exporters of automobiles and semiconductors to the United States, and a 25 per cent tariff could result in billions of dollars in new costs for those industries. Experts warn the move could ignite retaliatory tariffs or legal actions via the World Trade Organization.

Despite criticism from economists and trade experts, Trump’s team remains firm that the tariff threats are necessary to rebalance trade and revive American manufacturing.

Japan Volcano Erupts Amid Baba Vanga’s ‘July 5 Quake’ Fears

July 5, 2025, 3:21 pm

Japan’s Mount Shinmoedake erupted in the afternoon on Wednesday, sending thick ash clouds soaring into the air. Authorities immediately issued alerts telling individuals to avoid the site for safety reasons.

As news of the eruption spread, social media lit up with mentions of a popular prediction by Japanese manga artist Ryo Tatsuki, who had earlier warned of a major catastrophe in Japan in 2025. Often compared to Baba Vanga for her striking predictions, Tatsuki’s prophecy which pointed to a disaster in early June resurfaced online, with many linking it to the sudden volcanic eruption.

Japan’s meteorological agency also issued an alert, observing, “The plume reached a height of 3,000 metres (9,800 feet) for the first time since April 3, 2011.”

Video released by the Meteorological Agency depicted lava flows and dense grey smoke spewing out of the volcano late Wednesday night.

At the same time, a powerful earthquake on Thursday, one of over 1,000 quakes in Kagoshima prefecture in the past two weeks. It added further fuel to speculation linked to the manga’s anticipated July catastrophe.

Following a 5.5-magnitude earthquake off southern Kyushu, regional authorities acted to evacuate people from surrounding isolated islands on Friday.

Japan’s government on Saturday warned that additional earthquakes may hit the area but warned the public not to be swayed by unsubstantiated disaster reports going around on the internet.

The manga’s original publication was thought by some to have predicted the disastrous March 2011 Japanese earthquake and tsunami. Its new edition is being read by some as predicting a major disaster on July 5, 2025, something that creator Ryo Tatsuki has dismissed.

Meanwhile, these viral prophecies and speculations have begun affecting tourist traffic in Japan, reports Reuters.

While Japan recorded a record high month of 3.9 million visitors in April, May tourist arrivals fell.

A surge in social media forecasts tied to a manga about a fantasy vision of a huge earthquake and tsunami hitting Japan and the surrounding countries in July 2025 had damaged business, Hong Kong-based EGL Tours’ Steve Huen said.

“Rumours have taken their toll,” Huen said, adding that his agency’s Japan bookings dipped by half.

Branden Choi, a 28-year-old from Hong Kong who regularly visits Japan, confessed he was cautious about going during July and August due to the manga’s prophecy.

“If possible, I may postpone my visit and travel after September,” he said.

Japan Evacuates Island Village After 1,000+ Earthquakes Spark Safety Fears And Manga Prophecy

July 5, 2025, 12:38 am

The Japanese authorities have evacuated villagers from a distant island village following over 1,000 earthquakes that occurred in the area in under two weeks, raising safety fears and sparking waves of online speculation.

On Thursday, an earthquake of 5.5 magnitude struck off Akuseki Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, triggering evacuation orders. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the epicenter of the quake was off-shore at a depth of 20km. No tsunami alert was given, and no damage or injuries were reported.

Toshima village, with 89 residents on seven inhabited islands, started evacuating early yesterday evening by ferry to Kagoshima on the southern Japanese coast. They were being housed in temporary accommodations organized by local authorities. The evacuation is expected to take a week, and officials had cautioned that residents of other adjacent islands would also be evacuated if the tremors continue.

Since June 21, Akuseki has had 1,031 earthquakes of intensity 1 or stronger on Japan’s seismic scale. The area, which is in the Tokara Islands south of Kyushu, is in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area of intense seismic activity with frequent earthquakes.

Compound to public fear, a viral online manga comic entitled The Future I Saw which was earlier said to have predicted the 2011 earthquake and tsunami has fueled online speculation of a disaster on July 5, 2025. While the artist of the manga, Ryo Tatsuki, has disclaimed being a seer, cancellations of travel to Japan have picked up, especially from Hong Kong.

Steve Huen, a travel executive in Hong Kong, said Japan-related bookings plunged 50% because of the fear generated by the manga. Earthquake insurance and special package deals have softened losses.

Officals’ assurances, including those from seismologists, could not allay the fears of all travelers like Branden Choi, who expressed that they will postpone trips after summer.

“It Never Stops Shaking”: Over 900 Earthquakes Jolt Japan’s Remote Tokara Islands

July 4, 2025, 5:43 am

A remote island chain off south Japan has been jolted by over 900 earthquakes in a single week, evoking fear and uncertainty among its tiny population, the officials stated.

As per the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), seismic activity has been continuous since June 21 off the Tokara Islands, a chain of 12 small islands in the Kagoshima Prefecture. Seven of the islands have a population of approximately 700.

During an emergency press conference on Wednesday, Ayataka Ebita, head of the JMA’s earthquake and tsunami observation department, confirmed that more than 900 quakes had been detected at 4pm. He told people to stay alert and be prepared to evacuate if needed, cautioning that larger quakes might still strike. There was a 5.5 magnitude quake detected around the area at 3:30pm on the same day.

Local residents say they are exhausted and anxious after days of near-constant shaking. “It feels like it’s always shaking. It’s very scary to even fall asleep,” one resident told local broadcaster MBC. Another added, “It’s not clear when this will end. I’m thinking about evacuating my kids.”

The tremors peaked on June 23, when 183 tremors were reported in one day. Some residents have said they can hear unusual oceanic grunts prior to quakes occurring, increasing the spookiness of nighttime.

With few options for accessing emergency services the closest hospital is a six-hour boat ride away residents are particularly at risk. While no significant damage has been reported, the psychological impact has been heavy.

Japan, which lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is beset by frequent earthquakes. Although the nation has made large investments in early warnings and infrastructure, officials acknowledge that it still must do more to protect outlying villages such as those in Tokara.

Trump Eyes Trade Deal with India, Snubs Japan Amid Global Power Shift

July 2, 2025, 3:06 am

The United States may be able to reach a trade agreement with India which will enable American businesses to compete in the Indian subcontinent and leave India with much lower tariffs, President Donald Trump told reporters on Tuesday, while expressing skepticism about reaching an agreement with Japan.

India Ready to Roll Back Trade Barriers

Trump informed journalists on board Air Force One that he thought India was prepared to roll back obstacles for U.S. businesses, which would set the stage for a deal avoiding the 26% tariff he announced on April 2, then suspended until July 9.

“Right now, India doesn’t accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that, if they do that, we’re going to have a deal for less, much less tariffs,” he said.

Progress in U.S.-India Trade Talks

Previously, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has informed Fox News that the U.S. and India are close to agreeing on a deal that will reduce tariffs on imports from America into the South Asian nation and keep India from facing levies from exploding next week.

“We are very close with India,” Bessent told Fox News in response to a question about progress on trade negotiations.

Indian officials prolonged a visit to Washington last week until Monday to attempt to come to terms on a trade agreement with President Donald Trump’s government and iron out outstanding issues on both sides, Indian government sources said.

U.S. Prioritizes India Over Japan for Trade Deal

A White House aide privy to the negotiations told that the Trump administration intends to give priority to obtaining trade agreements with nations such as India over Japan in the final days before the July 9 deadline.

India is among more than a dozen nations actively in the process of negotiating with the Trump administration to attempt to prevent a sharp jump in tariff rates on July 9, when a 90-day tariff lull comes to an end. India might experience its new “reciprocal” tariff rate increase to 27% from the present 10%.

U.S.-India negotiations have stalled due to differences over import tariffs for auto parts, steel, and agricultural products, prior to Trump’s deadline to impose retaliatory tariffs.

Jaishankar Hopes for Successful Outcome

“We are in the middle hopefully more than the middle of a very intricate trade negotiation,” Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told an event in New York on Monday.

“Obviously, my hope would be that we bring it to a successful conclusion. I cannot guarantee it, because there’s another party to that discussion,” said Jaishankar, who is in the U.S. for a meeting of the China-focused Quad grouping.

He said there “will have to be give and take” and both sides will need to meet in the middle.

Trump Doubtful About Japan Deal

Bessent explained to Fox News that each nation has an agenda for trade agreements, such as Japan, which Trump vented about on Monday and Tuesday.

Trump indicated that he was not considering extending the July 9 deadline and would just send letters announcing to nations the tariff rate they would receive.

“We’ve dealt with Japan. I’m not sure we’re going to make a deal. I doubt it,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington from a trip to Florida.

Trump Threatens Tariffs on Japanese Goods

Trump threatened to apply a tariff of 30% or 35% on Japanese imports – much higher than the 24% tariff rate Trump unveiled on April 2 and subsequently delayed until July 9.

He complained Japan was refusing to buy U.S.-grown rice, a Washington demand he called “an easy one,” and selling millions of automobiles in the United States.

“So what I’m going to do, is I’ll write them a letter saying we thank you very much, and we know you can’t do the kind of things that we need, and therefore you pay a 30%, 35% or whatever the numbers that we determine,” he said. So far, only Britain has negotiated a limited trade deal with the Trump administration, accepting a 10% U.S. tariff on many goods, including autos, in exchange for special access for aircraft engines and British beef.

Trump Threatens Japan With Tariffs Over Rice Imports Despite Data Ongoing Imports

July 1, 2025, 11:42 pm

In the midst of ongoing trade talks, US President Donald Trump had blamed Japan for not purchasing American rice, threatening tariffs unless Tokyo imports more. According to trade data released by the US Census Bureau, though, Trump’s accusation was contrary to facts as Japan bought $298 million worth of US rice in the last year and $114 million in January through April 2025.

In a Monday post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “They won’t take our RICE and yet they have a massive rice shortage,” suggesting retaliatory trade action. His remark comes as negotiators seek to finalize an accord before July 9, when a temporary suspension of tit-for-tat tariffs is set to expire, leaving Japanese exports subject to a nominal 10% tariff, from the previous 24%.

Japan’s Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi refused to discuss details of the trade talks but reaffirmed Japan’s devotion to “honest and sincere” negotiations. Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa reaffirmed Japan’s strong stance in defending its agricultural industry, particularly rice cultivation, which has a lot of political influence in rural regions that are poor but loyal to the Liberal Democratic Party.

Aside from US pressure, Japan has been resistant to offering concessions in agriculture. Trump has also threatened Japan’s auto exports, issuing a threat of a potential 25% tariff. The director of the White House’s National Economic Council, Kevin Hassett, indicated negotiations were still under way and might extend beyond a framework agreement.

Following domestic pressure, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba unveiled a new policy on Tuesday to aid rice production, in an effort to gain stable supply and farmer revenue. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated the reforms would reassure farmers who are willing to expand rice paddy production in the face of trade uncertainties.

The discussions represent wider tensions in US-Japan trade, where agriculture and autos are key hotspots.

Japanese Princess Flies Economy, Hailed for Humility

June 29, 2025, 2:34 pm

Japan’s Princess Kako, aged 30 and the niece of Emperor Naruhito, has won worldwide praise after a picture was posted showing her sleeping in an economy class seat on a flight over Brazil. The photo, which went viral almost instantly, had the princess sleeping against the window on a domestic flight, and it showed both her humility as well as her commitment to her royal duties.

As per an SCMP report, Princess Kako had spent an exhausting day traveling to four places on the first day of her 11-day official visit to Brazil, which was arranged at the request of the Brazilian authorities. Her tour schedule included stops in eight cities.

The video widely shared featuring her dozing off after just sitting down generated sympathy and respect on the internet. One of her social media followers commented, “She was like a porcelain doll. It is fully understandable to be tired with such a hectic schedule.” Another expressed alarm about her privacy: “Videos like these should not be posted. Princess Kako is hardworking and humble. We should guard her, not reveal her.”

An up-And-Coming Royal Personality in Japan

Princess Kako has emerged into a greater role in the imperial household, especially after her older sister, Princess Mako, relinquished her royal status in 2021 to marry her university sweetheart and relocate to New York. Since then, Kako has spoken for the household on many single overseas trips and official events.

Complimented for her honesty and sense of responsibility, Japanese media frequently refer to her as “the hope of Japan.” In her coming-of-age speech, she talked about her commitment, stating, “I believe I should carry out every task I am humbly entrusted with, sincerely and respectfully.” The princess has also publicly admitted her weaknesses, once confessing that her quick temper is her own biggest personal issue.

More about Princess Kako’s Life

Aside from her duties as a princess, Princess Kako has an active background in sports and studies. Having been a figure skater herself, she won a district title in 2007. She furthered her education in performing arts and psychology at the University of Leeds in the UK. She is a sign language proficient individual and is engaged in social welfare activities.

Her unconventional style makes her stand out from Japan’s traditionally conservative royal family image. Famed for dressing in bright colors and complex patterns, she’s the focus of what many refer to as a “Kako craze.”

A white camellia-patterned dress she wore during her trip to Brazil racked up more than 500,000 likes on the internet. Her clothing often causes a buzz, as witnessed a year ago in Greece when a royal blue knit top she sported sold out within two days, making the brand’s website have an enormous traffic surge. In the same way, when she was spotted wearing porcelain earrings that were made using the traditional Japanese technique, sales of the accessory rose by fifty times.

As one admirer summed up her appeal: “Her outfits are never boring. Princess Kako truly shows the charming, lively and stylish side of royalty.” Her modern flair and genuine approach to her royal responsibilities continue to win over people both in Japan and around the world.

Japan Quietly Prepares Bomb Shelters Near Taiwan Amid China Tensions

June 28, 2025, 12:05 pm

As China becomes more aggressive in the Pacific and continues to challenge Taiwan’s independence, Japan is quietly preparing for conflict. Beginning next year, Japan will build bomb shelters on its remote southwestern islands near Taiwan. These islands could be at risk if Beijing attacks.

Japan Responds to Growing Security Threats

Japan’s decision shows that it is taking the regional threat seriously. As Newsweek reported, Japan already hosts more U.S. troops than any other foreign country. Because of this strong alliance, any US-China war would likely involve Japan. Recent global conflicts, like those in West Asia, also show how such wars can easily spread.

China’s Pressure on Taiwan Alarms Japan

China has increased its pressure on democratic, self-governed Taiwan. Although Taipei rejects Beijing’s claims, China insists that Taiwan is part of its territory. Moreover, China has not ruled out using force to take control of the island.

In fact, in 2022, Chinese missiles landed near Yonaguni, one of Japan’s westernmost islands. This event deeply worried residents and pushed Tokyo to increase its military presence in the area.

Japan’s Shelter Plan Begins in 2025

In response, Japan will start building emergency shelters in the Sakishima Islands, part of the Nansei chain, starting in 2025. The first shelters will be on Yonaguni Island, which is just 70 miles from Taiwan.

As reported by the Nikkei newspaper, Japan also plans to build more shelters by spring 2028 on Iriomote, Ishigaki, Tarama, and Miyako islands. These shelters will allow people to stay for up to two weeks in case of emergencies.

Evacuation Will Not Be Easy

Japan hopes to move civilians from these islands to the mainland before any fighting begins. However, officials warn that evacuating over 100,000 people by sea and air may take at least a week. So, the bomb shelters will provide temporary protection during any delay.

U.S. Backs Japan’s Defensive Strategy

Japan’s actions are not based on assumptions. In fact, U.S. intelligence says Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered his army to prepare for a forced takeover of Taiwan by 2027. Still, many experts question whether China will act on this plan, as it also depends on political decisions.

U.S. Warns of Imminent Attack

Recently, at the Singapore Defence Summit, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said China was “rehearsing for the real deal” and warned that an attack “could be imminent.” Beijing quickly denied these claims and accused the U.S. of “stoking regional tensions.”

Japan Executes ‘Twitter Killer’ Who Lured Suicidal Women Online

June 27, 2025, 2:22 pm

Takahiro Shiraishi, infamously known as Japan’s ‘Twitter killer’, was put to death this week in a first for the nation since 2022. The 34-year-old man had been sentenced to death for the brutal killing of nine people back in 2017.

Shiraishi exploited social media to locate and lure suicidal women, providing them with help in ending their lives. Instead, he invited them to his apartment in Tokyo, where he strangled and murdered them. He dismembered the corpses and kept parts in coolers and boxes, while dumping others at a dump site.

“Nine victims were beaten and strangled, murdered, robbed, and mutilated after having pieces of their bodies hidden in boxes, and their body parts thrown away in a trash dump,” Japan’s Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki told AFP. Suzuki said Shiraishi did this for a ‘selfish motive of fulfilling his own sexual and economic desires’.

The victims ranged in age from 15 to 26. Authorities started to discover the murders after a 23-year-old woman went missing following tweets in which she wrote that she wanted to commit suicide. That investigation directly led the authorities to Shiraishi, revealing the ghastly scope of his crimes.

Shiraishi’s legal team opposed his execution, arguing that his victims had consented to die. However, the court rejected that defense, citing the brutality and manipulation involved in the killings.

This marks Japan’s first execution since that of Tomohiro Kato in 2022. Kato was responsible for a 2008 rampage in Tokyo’s Akihabara district, where he drove a two-tonne truck into a crowd and fatally stabbed seven people.

Capital punishment remains popular with the public in Japan. A government poll conducted in 2024 discovered that 83% of the 1,800 people questioned regarded the death penalty as ‘unavoidable’.

Japan and the United States are the world’s only G7 countries that continue to have capital punishment. Although the law requires that executions should take place within six months of the last court decision, most prisoners spend years in solitary confinement before they are hanged. Critics have long condemned the system as not being transparent and psychologically damaging to the prisoners, who are normally informed of their execution only hours ahead of time, usually in the early morning.

US Marine Jailed 7 Years For Violent Sex Assault In Japan, Rekindling Anger Over US Base Crimes

June 26, 2025, 12:49 am

An American Marine deployed in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture has been sentenced to seven years in prison for raping a Japanese woman, reigniting concerns over the presence of US troops in the area.

Lance Corporal Jamel Clayton, 22, was convicted of assaulting a woman in her 20s while serving overseas in May 2023. The Naha District Court on Tuesday convicted Clayton of assaulting the victim from behind, choking her for one to two minutes, and trying to rape her. The woman reported the crime at once to the police and told a friend in an email with a vivid description that matched her testimony in court.

Presiding Judge Kazuhiko Obata described Clayton’s actions as “highly malicious” and noted the attack had posed a serious threat to the victim’s life. Medical evidence presented during the trial showed blood spots in the victim’s eyes, consistent with prolonged neck compression. Her injuries required two weeks to heal.

Clayton pleaded not guilty to the charges, his defense arguing inconsistencies in the woman’s story and her supposed state of intoxication. The court, nonetheless, found the testimony of the victim credible and made much of the psychological trauma she had suffered.

Prosecutors had asked for a 10-year sentence. In handing down the verdict, Judge Obata encouraged Clayton to be truly remorseful and maintain a peaceful existence following his release.

The verdict has revitalized Okinawan indignation over US personnel crimes in the island state, where approximately 30,000 American forces are deployed. Although Okinawa occupies only 0.6% of Japan’s territory, it is home to roughly 70% of the nation’s US military facilities.

This is one of a series of cases attracting national attention. Last year, formal complaints were made by Japan to the US embassy regarding numerous sexual assault allegations. Past grievances, such as the rape in 1995 of a 12-year-old girl by American servicemen, still contribute to resentment of the foreign military presence on the island.

Japan Conducts First-Ever Domestic Missile Test Amid Rising China-Russia Tensions

June 25, 2025, 12:05 am

Japan’s armed forces announced on Tuesday that it has completed its first-ever missile test on home soil, a major development in its efforts to bolster national defense amid rising regional tensions.

The test, which used a Type 88 short-range surface-to-ship missile, was conducted at the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost major island. Some 300 Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) members of the 1st Artillery Brigade took part in the test, which fired a training missile at an unmanned target boat about 40 kilometers off Hokkaido’s southern coast. The GSDF is now studying the results of the test.

Earlier, faced with space and safety limitations, Japan had conducted missile testing in allied nations like the United States and Australia. The test on Tuesday marks Japan’s increasing dedication to an independent military strategy and the creation of strike-back capabilities, fueled in part by China’s increasing maritime influence and combined naval presence with Russia off Japanese shores.

Japan’s defense stance has shifted dramatically since 2022, when the government took up a five-year security strategy that identified China as the most serious strategic danger. The plan requires a bolstering of the Japan-US alliance and extending Japan’s defensive zone.

The nation is also readying the long-range cruise missiles, such as US-built Tomahawks, and has started development of the extended-range Type 12 surface-to-ship missile, with a potential maximum range of 1,000 kilometers ten times that of the Type 88.

In further support of missile firing, Japan is going to build a fresh missile-shooting range on Minamitorishima, its easternmost island in the western Pacific. This area has taken on greater strategic significance following the recent sighting of two Chinese aircraft carriers sailing together in nearby waters.

Japan Cancels US Security Talks Over Pressure To Boost Defence Budget To 3.5%

June 22, 2025, 1:09 am

Japan has canceled a crucial yearly security conference with the United States following the Trump administration’s pressure on Tokyo to sharply increase its defense expenditure, Financial Times reported.

The “2+2” negotiations between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth with their Japanese counterparts, Defence Minister Gen Nakatani and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, were to take place on July 1 in Washington. The talks were canceled after America insisted on Japan increasing its defence budget to 3.5% of GDP up from a previous request of 3% as reportedly communicated by Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon’s third-highest-ranking official.

A senior US official told Reuters that the session was “postponed” but would not give a reason. Japan’s foreign ministry also denied earlier talks on any particular spending target.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said on Saturday that US Asian allies should take a cue from Europe and target defence budgets of 5% of GDP, pointing to increasing risks posed by China and North Korea.

The action is part of a trend of pressure from President Donald Trump, who in March chastised Japan’s security pact with the US, contending that America is under an obligation to defend Japan while Japan has no reciprocal obligation. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba hit back by declaring Japan’s independence over its defence budget choice.

Trump’s remarks coincided with continued trade tensions, with Washington threatening sharp tariffs on Japanese cars, which are currently under suspension until July 9. Japan is scheduled to participate in the next NATO summit in The Hague, where Trump is expected to renew his demand for greater military contributions from allies.

Although Japan has already doubled its defence budget ceiling from 1% to 2% of GDP in the days of former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, officials are adamant that any future boosts will be decided domestically, not as a result of external pressure.

International Yoga Day 2025: Japan PM’s Wife Joins 2,000 Participants at Tokyo Event

June 21, 2025, 10:57 am

The Indian Embassy in Tokyo held a colorful celebration of the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) for more than 2,000 yoga enthusiasts. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s wife, Yoshiko Ishiba, inaugurated the event and also participated in performing yoga asanas along with attendees.

Satoko Iwaya, wife of Japan’s Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya also attended the event. She represented the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Japan.

Sibi George, India’s Ambassador to Japan, spoke to the big crowd, highlighting yoga’s contribution to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Highlights of the event were posted by the embassy on X, captioning, “Glimpses of the 11th International Day of Yoga 2025 in Tokyo. Inaugurated by Madam Yoshiko Ishiba, Wife of Hon’ble PM of Japan. Event was attended by Madam Satoko Iwaya, Wife of the Hon’ble Foreign Minister. Ambassador @AmbSibiGeorge spoke to the gathering of more than two thousand yoga lovers. Also, attended by presence of Reverend Myoken Hayama & Reverend Tomohiro Kimura of Tsukiji Hongwanji, Wife of Ambassador Madam Joice Sibi, senior government representatives, Resident Ambassadors and diplomats and India’s friends in Japan.”

Glimpses of the 11th International Day of Yoga 2025 in Tokyo! 🇮🇳🧘‍♀️🇯🇵

Inaugurated by Madam Yoshiko Ishiba, Spouse of Hon’ble PM of Japan.

Occasion was graced by Madam Satoko Iwaya, Spouse of the Hon’ble Foreign Minister.

Ambassador @AmbSibiGeorge addressed the gathering of… pic.twitter.com/3GZBm6m7DV

— India in Japanインド大使館 (@IndianEmbTokyo) June 21, 2025

This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” highlighted the deep relationship between individual well-being and global health, as the larger applicability of yoga in today’s ever more global world.

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took charge of the celebrations from the scenic coastline of Visakhapatnam. With naval vessels deployed off the shore providing a regal backdrop, he called yoga a “beyond age” gift that unites humanity in “health and harmony.

The United Nations formally declared the International Day of Yoga in 2014 after India brought a resolution, supported by a historic 175 member states.

Japan Issues Heat Alert As Temperatures Soar Past 38°C Shattering Records, Four Dead

June 21, 2025, 4:03 am

Japan has issued a public warning after a fierce early-summer heatwave that swept over much of the nation this week killed four individuals by suspected heatstroke.

In local reports, temperatures reached over 35°C at 65 sites within the Kanto–Koshin area, with Kofu reaching a record 38.2°C, Takasaki 37.7°C, and Shizuoka 37.6°C. A total of 547 observation sites reported above 30°C highs, which included Tokyo at 34.8°C and Osaka at 33.4°C.

“This kind of heat is obviously unusual,” said Yukiko Imada, a professor at the Climate System Research department of the University of Tokyo, in an interview with the South China Morning Post.

The four victims were all elderly and included a 96-year-old woman who was found lifeless in an open field in Gunma Prefecture and subsequently confirmed dead. Tokyo’s hospitals treated 169 individuals for heat-related illnesses on June 18, and another 57 the next day, putting increasing pressure on emergency services.

Official warnings have been issued that the intense heat is likely to last throughout the weekend and have also opened over 500 temporary cooling centers in affected regions. People, particularly the elderly, are being advised to remain indoors, hydrate themselves, and avoid going outside.

Meteorologists blame the blistering temperatures on a strong Pacific high-pressure system, combined with clear conditions and low wind. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasted that summer 2025 will experience above-normal temperatures, fueling alarm over more intense heat events in the next few months.

The present heatwave comes after record-breaking summer of 2024 the most torrid since the start of records in 1898 with average temperatures 1.76°C higher than the long-term average. A total of over 120 died from heatstroke in Tokyo alone during July 2024.

Experts say that such early and intense heatwaves could occur increasingly as a result of climate change.

Is Japan at Risk? Tourism Wobbles After ‘New Baba Vanga’s’ July 5 Prediction

June 14, 2025, 1:03 pm

Japan is witnessing a sharp dip in tourist arrivals from Asia, and a 25-year-old manga is at the center of the chaos. The comic book, titled The Future I Saw by Ryo Tatsuki, has stirred fear among travelers from South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, many of whom have cancelled or postponed their trips ahead of July 5, 2025.

A Comic That Sparked Real Fear

Originally published in 1999, The Future I Saw regained attention after readers noted that it predicted a “great disaster” in March 2011—the same month Japan endured a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. A revised edition, released in 2021, included a new prediction: that another major disaster would strike Japan on July 5, 2025.

Though there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, the earlier coincidence has made many take the manga seriously. The March 2011 disaster killed over 18,000 people and caused a meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant.

Viral Panic on Social Media

Japan’s public broadcaster NHK reported that over 1,400 YouTube videos have explored the manga’s prophecies, accumulating more than 100 million views. These videos speculate everything from volcanic eruptions to meteor strikes. Meanwhile, the updated manga has sold nearly one million copies, reflecting its renewed popularity.

Flight Cancellations and Sharp Booking Decline

Tourism data shared by Bloomberg Intelligence and travel analytics firm ForwardKeys indicates a steep drop in bookings. Flight reservations from Hong Kong to Japan fell by 50% year-on-year. For late June and early July, the decrease surged to 83%.

Travel agencies in Hong Kong also reported a decline of nearly half during the April-May holiday period compared to last year. Greater Bay Airlines, which expected high demand during cherry blossom and Easter seasons, was taken aback.

“We expected around 80% of the seats to be taken, but actual reservations came to only 40%,” said Hiroki Ito, general manager of the airline’s Japan office, in an interview with a Japanese daily, as cited by The Guardian.

Hong Kong Airlines and others have since reduced the frequency of flights to Japan.

Local Officials Try to Calm Fears

With travel cancellations mounting, local leaders have stepped in to ease public concern. Yoshihiro Murai, Governor of Miyagi Prefecture—one of the areas worst hit in 2011—urged people not to fall for baseless rumors. He stressed that the panic is negatively impacting local tourism economies.

Japan is located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” making it one of the most earthquake-prone nations. However, scientists repeatedly emphasize that while the risk of large quakes is high, no one can predict their exact timing or location.

In fact, a recent government report acknowledged an 80% chance of a powerful earthquake along the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years, potentially killing up to 300,000 people and damaging millions of structures. Yet this is based on seismic patterns, not comic book forecasts.

Manga Creator Urges Calm

Ryo Tatsuki, the author behind the manga, has addressed the growing panic. In a recent interview with a Japanese newspaper, she asked readers not to take her predictions too seriously. She also urged the public to trust scientific experts rather than unverified theories.

Despite her reassurance, the fear generated by the book’s eerie coincidence in 2011 continues to spread online, threatening Japan’s tourism industry at a time when it was beginning to recover from the pandemic.

Japan to Buy Back Super-Long Bonds as Yields Reach Record Highs

June 9, 2025, 6:34 pm

Japan is thinking of purchasing back some of its long-dated government securities offered at low interest rates in the past. This action is intended to manage the sharp increase in bond yields of late and address the excess supply of such long-term securities.

The government will reduce the new issuance of super-long bonds, which include 20-, 30-, and 40-year maturities, in addition to the buyback plan. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) will finalize decisions after consulting bond market participants later this month.

Addressing Oversupply and Rising Yields

Yields on super-long Japanese government bonds (JGBs) skyrocketed in recent weeks, reaching record highs. The 30-year JGB yield reached a record high of 3.185% on May 21. The spike came as life insurers and other traditional buyers were less aggressive on buying.

Global concerns over expanding debt burden over Japan also triggered the selling. The resulting oversupply has warped the JGB market, forcing the government to act.

Government Plans and Market Response

The Ministry of Finance will have important meetings with market players on June 20 and June 23 to talk about the buyback strategy. Budget approval will be needed to buy back super-long JGBs and may take some time to execute.

Officials consider the cutting of new bond sales alone as inadequate. Mari Iwashita, a Nomura Securities executive rates strategist, stated that buybacks would be a step in the right direction to address the oversupply problem.

After reports of the potential buybacks, yields on Japanese government bonds declined. The 10-year benchmark yield fell by 0.5 basis points to 1.45%, with the 30-year yield paring gains to 2.89%.

PM Shigeru Ishiba is politically under pressure to implement tax reductions and boost spending before the July upper house election. These policies may exacerbate Japan’s already significant public debt. The government has to balance political pressure with fiscal stability issues.

Bank of Japan’s Role and Future Outlook

The Bank of Japan (BoJ) is presently operating a bond tapering program until March but will potentially decelerate its tempo from next fiscal year. BoJ policymakers will make this decision at their policy meeting on June 16-17. Market analysts anticipate the BoJ and Ministry of Finance (MoF) to coordinate in order to rein in surging super-long bond yields.

Japan’s deliberation of bond buybacks serves to address its pressing need to control market volatility and reassure investors. The government’s dual strategy of cutting issuance and purchasing bonds back serves to stabilize yields and prop up Japan’s massive public debt management.

Blast at US Air Base in Southern Japan Injures 4 Japanese Soldiers

June 9, 2025, 4:40 pm

A blast occurred on Monday at a storage depot for unexploded ordnance at a U.S. base on the island of Okinawa, Japan, that left four Japanese soldiers wounded, officials said. Fortunately, none of the wounds are life-threatening.

The explosion took place as the troops were conducting work in a prefecture-operated facility intended for the temporary storage of unexploded ordnance, the majority of it from World War II and frequently found throughout the island. Okinawa was the location of one of the bloodiest fights during the war.

Prefectural authorities acknowledged that the injuries included injury to the soldiers’ fingers but would not say more.

In a statement issued by the U.S. Air Force, the accident occurred inside Kadena Air Base’s munitions storage facility, on a site being operated by the Okinawa prefectural government. The Air Force made it clear that ‘no U.S. servicemembers were involved in the incident’.

Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF) said the explosion occurred when the troops were examining one of the devices at the storage facility. NHK television further reported that the explosion occurred while the team was trying to scrape rust from the ordnance. The SDF is probing the reasons for the explosion. This is the first such accident since the Japanese army started its unexploded ordnance disposal unit in 1974.

Even decades after the war, huge amounts of unexploded bombs, predominantly from U.S. forces are continually unearthed in Japan, especially in Okinawa. The island is thought to have as much as 1,856 tons of the ordnance.

In an earlier similar incident last October, a war-era bomb exploded at a commercial airport in southern Japan, creating a big crater and causing many flights to be disrupted.

Internet Falls in Love with Japan’s Snow Fairy Bird | VIDEO

May 29, 2025, 3:48 pm

Hokkaido, Japan’s beautiful north island, is famous for its snowy views and untamed countryside, which are still attracting travelers from around the world. But recently, it’s not only the views that have been creating a buzz on the internet, a small bird has stolen the hearts of everyone around the world.

Say hello to the Shima Enaga, affectionately referred to as the ‘Japanese snow fairy’. With its cottony white plumage and small size, this cute bird has captured the hearts of internet users. The Shima Enaga is a member of the long-tailed bushtit family and is among Japan’s smallest birds, standing only 14 cm or approximately 5.5 inches tall.

Take a look:

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A post shared by Discover animal (@discover.animal)

Social Media Reacts

Because of their spherical shape and snowy-white plumage, these birds have created a commotion on the internet. “Why does Japan have all the cute animals?” quipped one user. “In Australia, it’s all metal and in Japan, all cute,” another user added. A third just typed, “Oh my god. So fluffy little bird.”

Describing the Shima Enaga’s charm, one described it as, “It’s so tiny and adorable like a fairy, so we all adore it so much. But since they are wild birds, we cannot take care of them. If you encounter them, you can obtain a lot of happiness from them. They are cheerful birds Japan is proud of.” Others earnestly reiterated, “Save the bird no matter what,” and, “Even the birds in Japan appear Japanese.”

If you’re lucking out, wanting to catch a glimpse of this delightful creature, then one of the best places to attempt it is at the Bird-Watching Cafe close to Chitose City in Hokkaido. Australian-born Aaron Kemp owns and operates the café, which is set up for birdwatchers and photographers. Although the shy birds never get near people, people can sit around with coffee, ice cream, or sweet treats waiting, all in hopes of getting a glimpse of the snow fairy.

Although having been difficult to capture due to their small size and reserved nature, the Shima Enaga still spreads joy among people fortunate enough to view them.

Japan’s Former Princess Secretly Welcomes First Child After Royal Exit

May 28, 2025, 1:09 pm

Mako Komuro, formerly Princess Mako of Japan, allegedly gave birth to her first child with husband Kei Komuro, as reported in an article by Josei Seven on May 22, 2025. The former princess, who left the Japanese Imperial Family in 2021 to wed Kei, a commoner has kept a low profile since the couple relocated to the United States.

Speculation regarding the birth was earlier this year when Weekly Shincho and Daily Shincho caught up with news in March that Mako, currently 33, was spotted wearing loose clothing as she went shopping in New York. Fueling further the rumors, NEWS Post Seven followed by reporting that the couple had been seen with a stroller, further fueling speculation regarding a possible new addition to the imperial bloodline.

Japan’s Crown Prince & Princess are grandparents. Their daughter, formerly Princess Mako of Akishino, who left behind her dynastic rights to marry a commoner, has reportedly given birth to her first child. #monarchy #Japan https://t.co/5GItbts1wf

— Rob Wolvin (@TorCentre) May 26, 2025

Although the buzz grows louder, official confirmation from the Imperial Household Agency has not been made. If confirmed, the baby would be Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko’s first great-grandchild.

From Princess to Private Citizen

Born on October 23, 1991, Mako Komuro is the eldest child of Crown Prince Fumihito (Prince Akishino) and Crown Princess Kiko. She was a shining star in Japan’s royal family before she chose to marry Kei Komuro, another student she had met at International Christian University in Tokyo.

Because of the imperial laws in Japan, female royals have to forfeit their royal titles in case they get married to someone outside the imperial family, a law which does not apply to male royals. According to a BBC news report, Mako also turned down a $1 million government-funded stipend traditionally given to female royals leaving the family.

After their simple ceremony, Mako and Kei moved to New York, where he now works as a lawyer. Even without being in Japan performing royal tasks, Mako’s life remains something of a subject of interest there as well as internationally particularly now that their child has apparently arrived, according to reports.

Japan’s PM Urges Trump to Lift Tariffs in Fresh Phone Call

May 23, 2025, 11:54 am

Talks between Japan and the U.S. are ongoing, with Japan continuing to press for the removal of trade tariffs that have significantly impacted its economy. Despite the ongoing discussions, Japan remains resolute in its demand for fair treatment and equitable trade practices.

Ishiba Speaks with Trump Ahead of Trade Discussions

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba held a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday morning (Thursday evening in Washington). The two leaders talked for 45 minutes. During the call, Ishiba raised concerns once again about the tariffs the U.S. has imposed on Japanese goods.

Speaking to the media later in Tokyo, Ishiba said, “I conveyed to him Japan’s position on US tariffs.” He emphasized that Japan’s request remained the same. “There was no change to our calls for the removal of tariffs,” he said.

Japan Faces Harsh Trade Penalties Despite Alliance

Although Japan is one of America’s closest allies and its largest foreign investor, it still faces the standard 10% tariffs the U.S. has placed on many countries. In addition, Japanese cars, steel, and aluminum face even higher duties.

In April, Trump announced new “reciprocal” tariffs of 24% specifically on Japan. However, these new penalties, along with similar ones targeting other nations, were put on hold until early July.

Focus on Jobs and Investment Alongside Tariffs

Ishiba made it clear that Japan’s concerns go beyond just trade duties. “As I’ve said before, it’s not just about tariffs but about investment,” he stated. He also highlighted Japan’s efforts to support American jobs. “There will also be no change to our position that Japan and the US will cooperate on generating employment in the US,” he added.

Japan’s Trade Envoy Heads to Washington for More Talks

As part of the ongoing negotiations, Japan’s economic revitalisation minister, Ryosei Akazawa, left Tokyo for Washington. This marks the third round of direct trade talks between the two countries. Akazawa spoke to journalists at Haneda Airport before his departure. “The series of tariff measures taken by the US are regrettable. We’ll strongly demand a review of these measures,” he said.

Still, he acknowledged that both sides needed to find common ground. “But we have to reach an agreement, so it has to be win-win for both sides. We’ll listen carefully to the various proposals and ideas of the US side, and look for common ground between the two sides,” he explained.

Top U.S. Official Will Skip This Round of Talks

Japanese media, including NHK, reported that U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent would not attend the upcoming talks. According to the reports, Akazawa is expected to return to Washington for further discussions on May 30.

Auto Tariffs Deal a Major Blow to Japan’s Economy

Japan has been hit especially hard by the 25% tariffs on vehicles introduced by the Trump administration. Cars are a major part of Japan’s economy, supporting about 8% of the country’s total employment. To make matters worse, the U.S. recently imposed another 25% tax on imported auto parts, including critical components like engines and transmissions. Back in February, Ishiba had pledged during a White House meeting that Japan would increase its annual investments in the U.S. to $1 trillion.

Analyst Says Japan Faces Challenges Despite Investments

Trade expert Stefan Angrick from Moody’s Analytics weighed in on the situation. He pointed out that Japan has not seen much progress in its negotiations with the U.S., even though Washington has softened its stance in talks with China and the UK.

“Although the recent US-China and US-UK trade deals indicate that Washington is aiming to de-escalate trade tensions, Japan-US negotiations have made little headway,” he noted.

He also questioned the effectiveness of Japan’s promises to boost investment. “Japan’s position as the world’s largest foreign investor in the US hasn’t shielded it from tariff threats, so promising more investment is an unconvincing bargaining chip,” he added.

Japan Minister Resigns After Saying ‘I Don’t Buy Rice, I Get It Free’ | WATCH

May 21, 2025, 1:29 pm

Japan’s Agriculture Minister, Taku Etō, has stepped down following public outrage over his controversial comment that he never purchases rice because he receives it as a gift. His resignation has intensified the pressure on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose government is already grappling with rising living costs and discontent ahead of the crucial upper house elections in July.

“Just now I submitted my resignation to Prime Minister Ishiba,” Etō announced outside the PM’s office.

Etō’s remarks, made at a recent fundraiser, triggered widespread criticism at a time when rice prices have nearly doubled. “I’ve never bought rice myself because my supporters donate so much to me that I can practically sell it,” he said. Earlier, he had expressed sympathy with consumers struggling under the price hike, noting the government’s release of 300,000 tons of rice from emergency reserves to curb prices.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Japan’s agriculture minister Taku Eto sparked outrage by saying he’s “never had to buy rice,” as consumers struggle with soaring prices amid the rice shortage crisis. #米騒動 #江藤農相 pic.twitter.com/n6x7872HUk

— 鳳凰資訊 PhoenixTV News (@PhoenixTV_News) May 19, 2025

Public Anger and Political Fallout

His statement sparked fury across Japan, where rice has become a symbol of the larger cost-of-living crisis. Data from April shows a 5kg bag of rice now costs a record ¥4,268 ($29), up from ¥4,214 the week before, and nearly double the price from a year ago. The crisis stems from multiple factors, including a poor harvest due to extreme heat in 2023, hoarding by distributors, and panic buying following a “megaquake” warning in 2024.

Etō acknowledged his misstep: “I asked myself whether it is appropriate for me to stay at the helm [of the agriculture ministry] at a critical time for rice prices, and I concluded that it is not,” he told Kyodo news agency. “Once again, I apologise to people for making extremely inappropriate comments as minister when they are struggling with surging rice prices.”

He also admitted his wife had scolded him for the remarks, saying, “She told me that she does buy rice when the donated rice runs out. It’s not like our family is living entirely off of rice given to us as gifts.”

Opposition and Public Discontent

Junya Ogawa, secretary general of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, slammed the remarks as “extremely inappropriate, out of touch and intolerable.”

Prime Minister Ishiba, already facing declining popularity due to the ongoing economic crunch, had earlier apologised for Etō’s comments. In a Kyodo survey, 87% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the rice price crisis. The cabinet’s approval ratings have now hit their lowest since Ishiba took office last October.

Shinjirō Koizumi, a former environment minister and previous contender for LDP leadership, has been appointed as Etō’s successor.

In an unprecedented move last month, Japan also imported rice from South Korea for the first time in 25 years to address the domestic shortfall and growing consumer frustration.

Japan Faces Deeper Economic Contraction Ahead of Trump Tariffs

May 16, 2025, 1:08 pm

US tariffs cause Japan’s economy to contract—this warning has come to pass. Japan has been facing economic contraction more quickly than anticipated in the March quarter, marking the country’s first contraction in a year. Flat consumer spending and dwindling exports were the main causes of the 0.7% annual GDP decline. The contraction occurs just prior to the impact of the high tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on Japanese goods.

With car exports subjected to a 24% tariff, Japan’s vital industries now lie under significant strain. Despite robust capital spending and a rewritten 2.4% quarter-on-quarter expansion in the previous quarter, Japan’s conditional recovery is at risk from Trump’s tariff-driven global trade disruption.

Exports Stumble as Consumption Slows

GDP in real terms contracted by 0.2% from the last quarter, more severely than the predicted 0.1% decline. Private spending, which accounts for over half the economy, was steady while expectations were of a modest increase.

The GDP deflator increased 3.3%, indicating that companies attempted to pass on increasing cost of inputs. External demand, though, weighed down GDP by 0.8 percentage points, with exports declining 0.6% while imports increased 2.9%. These are statistics prior to even the actual imposition of U.S. tariffs, highlighting initial cracks.

Trump Tariffs Cast Long Shadow

Trump‘s April 2 trade action created shockwaves in the entire economy of Japan. His administration slapped 10% tariffs on nearly all nations, except China, Canada, and Mexico. Japan will have to pay a 24% tariff on cars beginning July, unless it reaches a bilateral agreement with Washington. The U.S. has already imposed 25% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles.

This strikes Japan where it hurts the most—automobile exports. Japanese automobile companies are anticipating the impact. Toyota anticipates a 20% decline in profits. Mazda delayed its earnings prediction because of the uncertainty.

Policymakers Brace for Impact

Japan’s Minister of Economic Revitalisation Ryosei Akazawa cited robust corporate pay rises as a cushion. However, he cautioned against severe downside risks from Trump’s trade tariffs and inflation. Experts concur. Dai-ichi Life Research’s Yoshiki Shinke described Japan’s economy as “shock-prone” without a solid growth driver. Moody’s Analytics’ Stefan Angrick noted the initial contraction in a sign of “weak domestic momentum.

The GDP decline would pressure Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to plan fresh stimulus or tax cuts. No such proposals are currently in the works, but there is growing political pressure. The Bank of Japan is taking a careful approach. It hiked rates to 0.5% in January but reduced its growth forecast, citing tariff threats, recently. If U.S. tariffs take a bigger bite, the BOJ could suspend further rate hikes this year.

Uncertain as Trade Talks Loom

Japan’s future is now riding on trade negotiations with the U.S. Policymakers are trying to stave off the worst, but danger is still lurking. If tariffs derail capital expenditure and exports further, the economy might shrink again in the second quarter.

Japan’s tenuous recovery is in limbo for now—stuck between an anaemic domestic foundation and Trump’s belligerent trade agenda.

Japan To Make Childbirth Free By 2026, Can It Reverse The Alarming Birth Rate Decline?

May 16, 2025, 12:46 am

Japan will make normal childbirth free under its national health insurance system by April 2026 as part of a broad effort to fight its falling birth rate. A government panel of experts has suggested a new policy to reduce the financial burden on new parents, calling on the health ministry to complete a plan within the 2026 fiscal year.

At present, normal deliveries are not covered by Japan’s national health insurance unless accompanied by surgery like a caesarean. Up to ¥500,000 (about £2,581) is subsidized by the government for childbirth, but a review panel concluded the amount was lacking in almost 45% of births surveyed over May 2023 to September 2024.

The cost of childbirth also differs from prefecture to prefecture, as hospitals separately determine delivery charges. On average, a regular delivery price ¥518,000 (£2,674) in the first half of 2024 a 24% increase from 2012. To rectify this difference, the panel suggested that there should be a uniform nationwide childbirth charge.

Japan had only 720,988 births in 2024, a drop of 5% from last year and the lowest number since records started 125 years ago. It was the ninth straight year that births were falling, even with many government measures.

Policymakers are growing concerned over Japan’s demographic crisis, in which over 30% of the population is above the age of 65 a record high among developed economies. The government has thus introduced a range of incentives, including childcare subsidies, housing subsidies, and even a state-subsidized dating app, to promote marriage and having children.

The ministry of health already laid out a package of childcare policies in 2023 aimed at discouraging declining fertility with more financial support for new families. The new nationwide coverage of childbirth fees is likely to be a central element of the government’s overall population strategy.

Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba Reiterates Call to Eliminate All Trade Tariffs with US

May 11, 2025, 2:23 pm

Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba reiterated his campaign for zero tariffs during a continued bid for trade talks with the United States. Appearing on a Sunday morning television show, he assured that negotiations between Tokyo and Washington are in progress. Whereas US President Donald Trump has proposed keeping a 10% floor tariff, Shigeru Ishiba insisted the objective should be outright elimination of tariffs. He cautioned that auto exports of Japan would be hurt both by Japanese producers and American consumers if there are high import duties.

Shigeru Ishiba also spoke out against the risk of a Japanese consumption tax reduction, calling for a prudent and selective response. His remarks illustrate Japan’s balancing act between trade diplomacy and domestic economic policy.

Ishiba Insists on Zero Tariff Goal

PM Shigeru Ishiba indicated that negotiations on trade with the US were picking up pace. He referred to the talks as “gradually coming together” and characterized his relationship with Trump as “surprisingly good.” Despite this, he categorically insisted that Tokyo should target 0% tariffs in the final agreement.

Speaking of the new US-UK free trade agreement, Ishiba recognized it as a potential model but a suboptimal one. That deal cuts tariffs on British automobile exports but maintains a 10% tariff floor. Ishiba thinks Japan must and can negotiate on more favorable terms.

High Auto Tariffs Hurt US Consumers Too, Says PM

Today, Japan has a 25% tariff on auto exports to the US. The US also charges a 24% tax on a number of other Japanese products. Shigeru Ishiba contended that the high tariffs drive up car prices in the US, to the detriment of American consumers.

“For the benefit of the American economy too, shouldn’t the tariffs be reduced?” he said, emphasizing that good trade is good for both countries.

Trump, however, stated on Friday that a 10% tariff on imports will remain in place even after trade agreements are concluded. He stated that exceptions may be made if partners make significant trade concessions.

Ishiba Calls for Caution Over Cutting Japan’s Consumption Tax

Locally, Shigeru Ishiba spoke on demands to lower Japan’s consumption tax to prop up the economy. He cautioned against acting rashly.

If we suddenly decrease the consumption tax, what then happens to the finances of the country?” he asked. He demanded alternative measures to assist people who are in need, as opposed to indiscriminate tax reduction.”.

PM Shigeru Ishiba’s zero-tariff position marks Japan’s hardline in the Japan-US tariff talks. Although Trump advocates a tariff floor, Ishiba insists that complete removal of tariffs benefits both economies. As negotiations drag on, Japan balances between strategic diplomacy and prudent domestic policy.

Rare White Orca Spotted Off Japan’s Coast, Stuns Internet

April 29, 2025, 7:03 am

A photographer recently captured a rare moment when he spotted a white orca jumping out of the ocean with its pod. A Japanese whale-watcher recorded the breathtaking sight on video. According to reports, the killer whale appeared off the coast of Hokkaido, a volcanic island in Japan.

Soon after the encounter last year, Noriyuki Hayakawa, the photographer, shared photos and a video on his Instagram page. However, the stunning visuals have only recently caught people’s attention.

In the caption of his video, translated from Japanese, Hayakawa wrote, “It is believed that the discovery was ‘Sightseeing Boat’. I was on the ‘Shiretoko Nature Cruise Evergreen38’. This is the first white orcas I’ve come across after 15 years of photographing Rajan orcas. Thank you to the Lajan tourist boat staff for showing me.”

In the video, a group of killer whales can be seen leaping out of the water. However, one whale looks completely different. While the others have black bodies with white patches, this one is entirely white.

Is It Really an Albino?

At first glance, the white orca may seem like an albino. However, Daily Mail clarified that the whale is not a “true albino.” True albinos lack melanin completely. Instead, this orca is leucistic, meaning it has reduced pigmentation but not a total absence of color.

Photographer Shares His Excitement

Speaking about the encounter, Hayakawa told Daily Mail, “My legs were shaking with excitement. It was the first time in my life I’d seen a white orca. I was desperate to get a shot, they swim fast and only surface for a moment.”

Moreover, he explained how much the experience meant to him. “This photo means so much to me,” he said. “I’ve spent over a decade photographing orcas and this is the first white one I’ve ever seen.”

Finally, he expressed his hope that more people would appreciate the rare sight. “I hope as many people as possible get to see it and appreciate how rare and beautiful these animals are,” he added.

Elderly In Japan, Osaka Banned From Using Phones At ATM As Phone Scams Hit Record High

April 24, 2025, 6:59 pm

Osaka has emerged as the first prefecture in Japan to implement a prohibition on the use of mobile phones by those aged 65 and older when using ATMs, a step taken to fight the wave of telephone-based fraud against the elderly.

The law, which is without penalty, mainly aims to make more people aware and dissuade scammers who tend to pretend to be relatives or authorities to trick older people into parting with huge amounts of money. Although not enforceable, the ordinance requires banks and companies to inform the public about the rule, The Japan Times reports.

This move comes amid a nationwide effort to address a growing problem. In 2024 alone, phone-based fraud led to losses amounting to a record 72.1 billion yen, a 60% increase from the previous year. Data indicates that around 45% of the 20,951 reported individual victims were aged 75 or older, excluding corporate cases.

In September, the National Police Agency floated limiting daily ATM withdrawals and transfers of 75 and older to 300,000 yen. Although the plan generated apprehension among banks about customer hassle and logistical burden, Osaka went ahead with its own more stringent measures. These include limiting the average bank transfer per day to 100,000 yen for those who are 70 and older and prohibiting simultaneous phone use at ATMs.

Authorities have also ordered companies to place fraud alerts on ATMs and instructed prepaid card sellers to ensure that older customers are not being cheated.

Ryo Hamaoka of Osaka’s Crisis Management Office said the aim is to render phone use at ATMs socially unacceptable similar to the now-widespread courtesy of avoiding phone calls on public transport.

Other municipalities like Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Nagano have implemented similar anti-fraud measures like fraud awareness seminars and call-blocking devices.

Over 500 T. Rexes Race Through Japan in Hilarious Costume Event | WATCH

April 23, 2025, 4:27 pm

The Tyrannosaurus rex (T. rex), one of the biggest and most formidable carnivorous dinosaurs, is characterized by its size, pointed teeth, and powerful jaws. In recent times, an unusual trend that involves dinosaur costume racing has become very popular. Having begun in the United States, the T-rex costume race trend has now caught up in Japan as well.

These unconventional, comedic races, where individuals wear inflatable T. rex costumes, have become a viral sensation. One of such races, which took place in March of this year in Japan, went viral in a matter of seconds. The clip, initially shared by USA Today and then shared across social media in a mass scale, shows over 500 participants competing in the T-rex race at Funabashi, Japan.

Reactions on Social Media

The caption on the video was, “May the best T. rex win! Hundreds of people dressed as Tyrannosauruses raced in Japan.”

Watch here:

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A post shared by USA TODAY (@usatoday)

The popularity of the video was obvious because comments were filled with reactions from viewers. One user simply commented, “Love this,” while another added, “Hilarious.”

A third said, “I love how the heads fall backwards, making them look extra desperate,” and another user posted, “Either I’m going to Japan, or I’m hoping to have a race like this here in Curitiba-Parana-Brazil.” Another comment read, “Made me laugh so hard.”

When was T-Rex Costume Race Started?

In accord with Oddity Central, the inaugural T-rex costume race was held in 2019 at the Auburn-based Emerald Downs racetrack in Washington State. The online popularity of this event inspired Japan’s first Tyrannosaurus Race Daisen in April 2022 in Daisen, Tottori Prefecture.

Success was followed by more of the same events around Japan, and more than 40 of these events were organized throughout the country. The first race attracted major attention at a time when Japan was under total lockdowns. Its popularity gave rise to a countrywide fad, causing a boom in the sales of inflatable dinosaur suits.

Why This Indian Neuroscientist Chose Japan to Build a Startup instead of His Own Country

April 23, 2025, 2:14 pm

With more and more individuals attracted to entrepreneurship for its potential of freedom, purpose, and profit, when one Indian man chose to locate his startup outside India, it created a stir across the internet.

In a going-viral Reddit thread, one person explained why he decided to establish his startup in Japan rather than in India. The post, “Why I decided to build my Startup in Japan instead of India (Japan Startup Visa),” refers to a LinkedIn page that names the founder as Prashant Sharma, a New Delhi native now based in Tokyo.

Why I decided to build my Startup in Japan instead of India (Japan Startup Visa)
byu/space_oddity96 inStartUpIndia

Why Prashant Chose Japan Over India?

Prashant traveled to Japan in 2023 to study for a PhD in neuroscience at the University of Tokyo. Along the way, he learned a method for language acquisition that was rooted in neuroscience. Seizing the potential, he took a gutsy step: “I had two choices. Return to India or remain in Japan and launch my startup here.”

Eventually, he decided to leave his PhD program and start his new language learning idea full-time by starting a business. “I had been in Japan for almost 2 years and fallen deeply in love with the country. Everything was just so well managed, clean, and peaceful. Zero air pollution, extremely high-trust society, and all things just work,” he described, continuing, “It would be an understatement to say that I was dedicated to trying to figure out a way to somehow remain and establish my startup in Japan.

He also discussed the plight of Indian entrepreneurs having to deal with complicated systems in their own country. “Reading about the harrowing experience of many Indian founders on this sub, struggling to stay alive in the midst of Indian bureaucracy hell only solidified my determination.”

Japan Startup Visa Helps

The open-arms attitude of Japan in accepting global entrepreneurs encouraged him as well. Prashant mentioned that he applied and got the Japan Startup Visa, where it is possible for foreigners to form a company out of an idea. “No need of a physical office, hiring staff, or capital expenditure. This was just ideal for me as I was beginning,” he wrote. “So I applied, and after a tough process, I finally obtained my Japan Startup Visa. Now I’m building my startup in Tokyo and enjoying every second of it.”

He ended his post with advice for aspiring Indian founders, “Life is too short and precious to struggle forever. Don’t waste your potential where your skills are not appreciated.”

In a similar case, another guy quit a well-paying job to start his own startup with an annual salary of Rs 50 lakh. But after two years of hard work, he closed it down. Looking back at the experience, he said, “He failed at being a founder.”

Japan Imports Rice from South Korea After 25 Years Amid Growing Supply Crisis

April 22, 2025, 1:13 pm

Japan had imported rice from South Korea for the first time in over two decades in a bid to appease growing public discontent and declining domestic rice supplies. The first-ever move involved importing two tons of South Korean rice into Japan in December—the last time any such imports had been made being in 1999, according to local media.

In spite of efforts by the government to contain inflation and reduce the shopping burden, the domestically produced rice is still on the rise. Foreign substitutes, however expensive with hefty tariffs, are thus slowly becoming increasingly popular.

Imports Still Minimal, But More Inbound Soon

Currently, the quantity of imported rice is still minimal, and only two tonnes are supplied through supermarkets and internet channels. However, public broadcaster NHK reported that an additional 20 tonnes will arrive soon.

This comes as domestic rice prices have risen more than double what they did at the same time last year, prompting consumers and businesses alike to turn to foreign sources.

Shifting Tastes: Japanese Consumers Embrace Imported Rice

Japanese consumers have traditionally been hesitant to accept foreign rice varieties. A case in point was in 1993 when bulk imports of Thai rice—imported after an unusually chilly summer—were largely unsold due to taste.

But the crisis is altering the mindset of the public. South Korea‘s rice shipments to Japan soon could approach record levels since 1990, Yonhap news agency reported. The situation also presents potential opportunities to US rice farmers.

Restaurants Turn to Foreign Rice as Prices Rise

In Tokyo, restaurant owner Arata Hirano changed from American to Japanese rice last year due to a domestic shortage that sent prices soaring into the stratosphere. Even though Californian rice has doubled in price since then, Hirano explained it was still more affordable than Japanese rice.

“I had no idea,” said diner Miki Nihei after learning she had eaten imported rice. “I have no qualms about eating imported rice. Prices have gone up, so I’m always looking for cheaper options.”

Government Releases Stockpiled Rice But Faces Delivery Challenges

As part of attempts to control prices, 210,000 tonnes of rice were released by the Japanese government from its strategic reserve in March. This was an unusual intervention, as it tried to solve problems of distribution rather than natural disaster or crop failures.

But the impact has been contained. In the week to April 6, supermarket rice prices had risen to an average of ¥4,214 ($30/£22) per 5kg bag—more than double the level a year earlier.

Distribution of stockpiles of rice to supermarkets has been hampered by bottlenecks in logistics, the agriculture ministry said. Although 142,000 tonnes were sold in the first auction, only 426 tonnes—or 0.3%—had made it to consumers by the end of March.

The ministry attributed the delay to the lack of sale vehicles and time taken to prepare the grain for sale.

Many Reasons Behind Rice Crisis

The rice stock in Japan had already decreased due to record heat in summer 2023, which had severely impacted crop yields. Domestic consumption compounded the problem further as it increased due to a record number of tourists driving demand.

Panic purchasing amid warnings of typhoon and earthquake worsened the pressure, with some stores limiting sales. The government therefore finds itself resorting to reversing foreign imports to appease the market.

As imports are about to pour in and the government scrambling to fill gaps in distribution, Japan’s rice crisis continues to reshape consumer habits and well-established cultural preferences.