Tokyo is likely to see coronavirus cases top 280 on Thursday (July 16), Governor Yuriko Koike said, in what would mark a record daily high for the Japanese capital.

Japan: Tokyo reports 280 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

Japan: Tokyo witnesses sudden spike in COVID-19 cases

He's just eight years old but Ryan Kaji is already wildly successful and famous. He has 25.7 million followers on YouTube and was named 2019's highest paid content creator on the platform, raking in $26 million. However, since the coronavirus lockdown, Kaji, like many other influencers, has pivoted. Now, the family creates more content about fun activities to do during lockdown, and talks to experts about the virus.

YouTube child star Ryan Kaji pivots to help families in lockdown

COVID-19 cases are rising in Japan's Tokyo and the city is on a red alert. Tokyo's governor Yuriko Koike has described the situation as rather severe. Watch the WION report from Tokyo.

Red alert declared in Tokyo | Tokyo witnesses a sudden spike in daily cases | COVID-19 pandemic

Tokyo is considering raising its alert for coronavirus infections to the highest of four levels, officials said on Wednesday, after a spike in cases to record numbers in the Japanese capital.

Fearing a second wave of infections spreading from the capital, local municipalities and opposition lawmakers also urged the central government to suspend a major campaign aimed at boosting domestic tourism.

Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, however, said on Wednesday the government would proceed with the so-called 'Go To' travel aid campaign, which includes offers such as discounts for shopping and food, but move cautiously.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/japan-accuses-china-of-pushing-territorial-claims-during-coronavirus-pandemic-313133" hreflang="en">Japan accuses China of pushing territorial claims during coronavirus pandemic</a>

"Obviously we will consider the thoughts of many of our people, while monitoring the situation ahead," Nishimura, who leads the government's coronavirus policy, told parliament.

The programme is one of the biggest outsourcing contracts in a stimulus budget announced in April, but has already been postponed due to public criticism over the cost of subcontracting back-office work to a private contractor.

The campaign, starting this month, has also come under fire on social media, with the coronavirus fuelling an unusual outburst of political anger on social media networks in Japan.

In Tokyo, daily coronavirus cases exceeded 200 in four of the last six days, touching an all-time high of 243 cases last Friday as testing among workers in the metropolis's red-light districts turned up infections among young people in their 20s and 30s.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/new-alliance-against-huawei-five-eyes-with-d-10-nations-including-india-south-korea-japan-313060" hreflang="en">New alliance against Huawei: 'Five eyes' with 'D-10' nations including India, South Korea &amp; Japan</a>

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike confirmed that Tokyo would hold a "monitoring" meeting with experts on Wednesday, moving up the weekly gathering by a day, to discuss the recent rise in cases.

"My understanding is that we're in a rather severe situation now," she told reporters ahead of a planned media conference later on Wednesday.

A Tokyo government official separately told Reuters that the metropolitan government was considering raising its alert to the highest level.

Tokyo's latest cluster has been traced to a theatre with at least 37 cases in Shinjuku, a busy entertainment area and home to one of Asia's biggest red-light districts which has been the centre of a recent spike in infections.

Tokyo is considering raising its alert for coronavirus infections to the highest of four levels, officials said on Wednesday, after a spike in cases to record numbers in the Japanese capital.

Tokyo is considering raising its alert for coronavirus infections to the highest of four levels, officials said on Wednesday, after a spike in cases to record numbers in the Japanese capital. Fearing a second wave of infections spreading from the capital, local municipalities and opposition lawmakers also urged the central government to suspend a major campaign aimed at boosting domestic tourism. Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, however, said on Wednesday the government would proceed with the so-called 'Go To' travel aid campaign, which includes offers such as discounts for shopping and food, but move cautiously. Also read: Japan accuses China of pushing territorial claims during coronavirus pandemic "Obviously we will consider the thoughts of many of our people, while monitoring the situation ahead," Nishimura, who leads the government's coronavirus policy, told parliament. The programme is one of the biggest outsourcing contracts in a stimulus budget announced in April, but has already been postponed due to public criticism over the cost of subcontracting back-office work to a private contractor. The campaign, starting this month, has also come under fire on social media, with the coronavirus fuelling an unusual outburst of political anger on social media networks in Japan. In Tokyo, daily coronavirus cases exceeded 200 in four of the last six days, touching an all-time high of 243 cases last Friday as testing among workers in the metropolis's red-light districts turned up infections among young people in their 20s and 30s. Also read: New alliance against Huawei: 'Five eyes' with 'D-10' nations including India, South Korea & Japan Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike confirmed that Tokyo would hold a "monitoring" meeting with experts on Wednesday, moving up the weekly gathering by a day, to discuss the recent rise in cases. "My understanding is that we're in a rather severe situation now," she told reporters ahead of a planned media conference later on Wednesday. A Tokyo government official separately told Reuters that the metropolitan government was considering raising its alert to the highest level. Tokyo's latest cluster has been traced to a theatre with at least 37 cases in Shinjuku, a busy entertainment area and home to one of Asia's biggest red-light districts which has been the centre of a recent spike in infections.

Tokyo may raise coronavirus alert as travel campaign comes under fire

Theme parks around the world are reopening with added safety measures. In Japan, amusement parks have told their visitors to not scream on the roller coaster. They want visitors to 'scream inside their heart'.

Gravitas: Why you can't scream on roller coasters in Japan

Japan's annual defence review accuses China of pushing its territorial claims amid the coronavirus pandemic and suspects Beijing of spreading propaganda and disinformation as it provides medical aid to nations fighting COVID-19.&nbsp;

China "is continuing to attempt to alter the status quo in the East China Sea and the South China Sea," Japan said in the defence white paper approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The white paper described "relentless" intrusions in waters around a group of islets claimed by both nations in the East China Sea, known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/new-alliance-against-huawei-five-eyes-with-d-10-nations-including-india-south-korea-japan-313060" hreflang="en">New alliance against Huawei: 'Five eyes' with 'D-10' nations including India, South Korea &amp; Japan</a>

In the South China Sea, it said Beijing was asserting territorial claims by establishing administrative districts around disputed islands, that forced countries distracted by the coronavirus outbreak to respond.

Japan's criticism of China echoes similar comments made by the United States, and comes as tension in the region increases as Beijing and Washington conduct separate military drills in the resource-rich South China Sea and as relations between the world's two largest economies deteriorated.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday rejected China's disputed claims to offshore resources in most of the South China Sea, saying they were "completely unlawful".

Beijing insists its intentions in the waterway, through which around $3 trillion of global trade passes each year, are peaceful.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/as-china-eyes-multi-billion-dollar-iran-deal-indias-chabahar-port-may-lose-relevance-313054" hreflang="en">As China eyes multi-billion dollar Iran deal, India's Chabahar port may lose relevance</a>

Japan sees China as a longer-term and more serious threat than nuclear-armed North Korea. Beijing now spends four times as much as Tokyo on defence as it builds a large modern military.&nbsp;

Japan's defence review also claimed China appeared to be responsible for "propaganda" and "disinformation" amid "social uncertainties and confusion" caused by the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Such disinformation included online claims that the coronavirus was brought to China by a U.S. military member, or that Chinese herbal remedies could treat COVID-19, a defence ministry official said at a briefing.

Other threats faced by Japan include North Korea's ongoing development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles as well as a resurgence of military activity by Russia in the skies and waters in Japan, at times in joint drills with China, the defence review said.

Japan's annual defence review accuses China of pushing its territorial claims amid the coronavirus pandemic and suspects Beijing of spreading propaganda and disinformation as it provides medical aid to nations fighting COVID-19.

Japan's annual defence review accuses China of pushing its territorial claims amid the coronavirus pandemic and suspects Beijing of spreading propaganda and disinformation as it provides medical aid to nations fighting COVID-19. China "is continuing to attempt to alter the status quo in the East China Sea and the South China Sea," Japan said in the defence white paper approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday. The white paper described "relentless" intrusions in waters around a group of islets claimed by both nations in the East China Sea, known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China. Also read: New alliance against Huawei: 'Five eyes' with 'D-10' nations including India, South Korea & Japan In the South China Sea, it said Beijing was asserting territorial claims by establishing administrative districts around disputed islands, that forced countries distracted by the coronavirus outbreak to respond. Japan's criticism of China echoes similar comments made by the United States, and comes as tension in the region increases as Beijing and Washington conduct separate military drills in the resource-rich South China Sea and as relations between the world's two largest economies deteriorated. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday rejected China's disputed claims to offshore resources in most of the South China Sea, saying they were "completely unlawful". Beijing insists its intentions in the waterway, through which around $3 trillion of global trade passes each year, are peaceful. Also read: As China eyes multi-billion dollar Iran deal, India's Chabahar port may lose relevance Japan sees China as a longer-term and more serious threat than nuclear-armed North Korea. Beijing now spends four times as much as Tokyo on defence as it builds a large modern military. Japan's defence review also claimed China appeared to be responsible for "propaganda" and "disinformation" amid "social uncertainties and confusion" caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Such disinformation included online claims that the coronavirus was brought to China by a U.S. military member, or that Chinese herbal remedies could treat COVID-19, a defence ministry official said at a briefing. Other threats faced by Japan include North Korea's ongoing development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles as well as a resurgence of military activity by Russia in the skies and waters in Japan, at times in joint drills with China, the defence review said.

Japan accuses China of pushing territorial claims during coronavirus pandemic

Grab a seat of the next toller coaster ride. Fasten your seat, wait for the ride to kick-off. But, don't scream.

At a time when the world is falling apart, you are not allowed to scream. Stay calm, when even your mask is about to fly off.&nbsp;

When even GoPro seems shaken, you are not allowed to scream. No screaming as you come down from thousands of feet at a brisk pace.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-theme-parks-instruct-riders-to-keep-their-screams-inside-and-be-serious-311970">Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious'</a>

You just have to remain silent as you take a roller coaster ride. Is that even possible practically?

Japanese theme parks say this is possible. With the opening of the country's amusement parks, this weird rule is being discussed everywhere.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-you-cant-scream-on-roller-coasters-in-japan-313102/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The rule has been recommended to contain the spread of coronavirus infection.&nbsp;

People who want to take this ride are now confused. They want to buy the tickets, but how could they not scream.&nbsp;

Some visitors at the Fuji-Q Highland park asked this question to the authorities. So, the park executives recorded a demonstration video to show visitors how it's done.&nbsp;

Daisuke Iwata and Koichiro Horiuchi tasted success on social media after a video showed their straight, almost bored faces while taking a roller coaster ride became an instant hit.&nbsp;

They have inspired the "serious face challenge".

Some people have clicked themselves relaxing on a roller coaster ride. Here's a look.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
今日は夫婦で心の中で絶叫❗️いろんな疲れやストレスが吹っ飛びました。 
FUJIYAMAよ…またいつか会いに行くから、待っててね❗️ 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%9C%9F%E9%A1%94%E3%83%81%E3%83%A3%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#真顔チャレンジ</a> <a href="https://t.co/qY84W2D4jg">pic.twitter.com/qY84W2D4jg</a>
— はると (@E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR) <a href="https://twitter.com/E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR/status/1279700714743230465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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カメラ向こうか正面向くか迷った末のカメラ目線 
FUJIYAMA4回も乗れたしめっちゃ楽しかった！！<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%9C%9F%E9%A1%94%E3%83%81%E3%83%A3%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#真顔チャレンジ</a> <a href="https://t.co/dM2qabGp8M">pic.twitter.com/dM2qabGp8M</a>
— なおっきー (@ike_naokki) <a href="https://twitter.com/ike_naokki/status/1277563784907780096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ここ以外終始気持ち悪いほど笑ってました <a href="https://t.co/SBwMQKWgnn">pic.twitter.com/SBwMQKWgnn</a>
— ゆーゆ〜@壮絶な竹富島ロス (@yadoya_nizato) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadoya_nizato/status/1275277667160342528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The best performances will get free day passes to the theme park.&nbsp;

This challenge shows that it may just be possible to not scream a roller coaster ride.&nbsp;

And this will definitely be in the list of new things the pandemic has taught us.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Grab a seat of the next toller coaster ride. Fasten your seat, wait for the ride to kick-off. But, don't scream. At a time when the world is falling apart, you are not allowed to scream.

Grab a seat of the next toller coaster ride. Fasten your seat, wait for the ride to kick-off. But, don't scream. At a time when the world is falling apart, you are not allowed to scream. Stay calm, when even your mask is about to fly off. When even GoPro seems shaken, you are not allowed to scream. No screaming as you come down from thousands of feet at a brisk pace. Also read | Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious' You just have to remain silent as you take a roller coaster ride. Is that even possible practically? Japanese theme parks say this is possible. With the opening of the country's amusement parks, this weird rule is being discussed everywhere. The rule has been recommended to contain the spread of coronavirus infection. People who want to take this ride are now confused. They want to buy the tickets, but how could they not scream. Some visitors at the Fuji-Q Highland park asked this question to the authorities. So, the park executives recorded a demonstration video to show visitors how it's done. Daisuke Iwata and Koichiro Horiuchi tasted success on social media after a video showed their straight, almost bored faces while taking a roller coaster ride became an instant hit. They have inspired the "serious face challenge". Some people have clicked themselves relaxing on a roller coaster ride. Here's a look. 今日は夫婦で心の中で絶叫❗️いろんな疲れやストレスが吹っ飛びました。 FUJIYAMAよ…またいつか会いに行くから、待っててね❗️ #真顔チャレンジ pic.twitter.com/qY84W2D4jg — はると (@E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR) July 5, 2020 × カメラ向こうか正面向くか迷った末のカメラ目線 FUJIYAMA4回も乗れたしめっちゃ楽しかった！！#真顔チャレンジ pic.twitter.com/dM2qabGp8M — なおっきー (@ike_naokki) June 29, 2020 × #真顔チャレンジ#富士急ハイランド ここ以外終始気持ち悪いほど笑ってました pic.twitter.com/SBwMQKWgnn — ゆーゆ〜@壮絶な竹富島ロス (@yadoya_nizato) June 23, 2020 × The best performances will get free day passes to the theme park. This challenge shows that it may just be possible to not scream a roller coaster ride. And this will definitely be in the list of new things the pandemic has taught us.

Serious Face Challenge: How not to scream while taking a roller coaster ride

Japan on Tuesday came out with its defence white paper on the security in the region and highlighted the growing Chinese aggressiveness in the region and plans to status quo unilaterally in several areas in Asia including India, Bhutan and South China.

Japanese defence minister Tarō Kōno speaking on the white paper as quoted by news agency Associated Press (AP) said, Bejing has been, "unilaterally enforcing its power on the border between China and India, the Bhutan border, in the South China Sea, the East China Sea and multiple places. We wrote specifically about its behaviour (in the white paper)."

<img alt="Japan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47bfecc1-4041-492f-b585-e20f3d5951ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/111111.JPG" /> 
 
China's People's Liberation Army's Recent Activities in the Surrounding Sea Area and Airspace of Japan. (Picture courtesy from Japanese Defence Ministry's White Paper)

While the Japanese defence minister talked about Chinese aggressiveness with India, Japan, the white paper emphasises on Senkaku islands and the South China Sea.&nbsp;

The white paper by the Japanese defence ministry as seen by WION said, "China has relentlessly continued unilateral attempts to change the status quo by coercion in the sea area around the Senkaku Islands, leading to a grave matter of concern."&nbsp;

Explaining how "The Chinese Navy and Air Force have in recent years expanded and intensified their activities in the surrounding sea areas and the airspace of Japan, and there are cases involving the one-sided escalation of activities."

Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea are administered by Japan but China claims them.&nbsp;

On the South China Sea issue, Japanese defence ministry white papers said," China is moving forward with militarization, as well as expanding and intensifying its activities in the maritime and aerial domains, thereby continuing unilateral attempts to change the status quo by coercion to create a fait accompli."

On the increased capabilities by the Chinese forces "in more distant seas such as the Indian Ocean in recent years", the defence white papers said, "China’s support for the construction of port infrastructure in Indian Ocean countries as well as Pacific island countries could lead China to secure bases available for its military purpose".

This is something that has been a worry for India, given China's first overseas base in Djibouti and presence in Pakistan's Gwadar port.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Both India and Japan have been increasing defence partnership. In September 2019, a Japan-India Defense Ministerial Meeting was held followed by the first Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting in November of the same year.&nbsp;

On COVID, the white paper said, that the "pandemic may expose and intensify strategic competition among countries intending to create international and regional orders more preferable to themselves and to expand their influence."

Japan on Tuesday came out with its defence white paper on the security in the region and highlighted the growing Chinese aggressiveness in the region and plans to status quo unilaterally in several areas in Asia including India, Bhutan and South China.

Japan on Tuesday came out with its defence white paper on the security in the region and highlighted the growing Chinese aggressiveness in the region and plans to status quo unilaterally in several areas in Asia including India, Bhutan and South China. Japanese defence minister Tarō Kōno speaking on the white paper as quoted by news agency Associated Press (AP) said, Bejing has been, "unilaterally enforcing its power on the border between China and India, the Bhutan border, in the South China Sea, the East China Sea and multiple places. We wrote specifically about its behaviour (in the white paper)." China's People's Liberation Army's Recent Activities in the Surrounding Sea Area and Airspace of Japan. (Picture courtesy from Japanese Defence Ministry's White Paper) While the Japanese defence minister talked about Chinese aggressiveness with India, Japan, the white paper emphasises on Senkaku islands and the South China Sea. The white paper by the Japanese defence ministry as seen by WION said, "China has relentlessly continued unilateral attempts to change the status quo by coercion in the sea area around the Senkaku Islands, leading to a grave matter of concern." Explaining how "The Chinese Navy and Air Force have in recent years expanded and intensified their activities in the surrounding sea areas and the airspace of Japan, and there are cases involving the one-sided escalation of activities." Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea are administered by Japan but China claims them. On the South China Sea issue, Japanese defence ministry white papers said," China is moving forward with militarization, as well as expanding and intensifying its activities in the maritime and aerial domains, thereby continuing unilateral attempts to change the status quo by coercion to create a fait accompli." On the increased capabilities by the Chinese forces "in more distant seas such as the Indian Ocean in recent years", the defence white papers said, "China’s support for the construction of port infrastructure in Indian Ocean countries as well as Pacific island countries could lead China to secure bases available for its military purpose". This is something that has been a worry for India, given China's first overseas base in Djibouti and presence in Pakistan's Gwadar port. Both India and Japan have been increasing defence partnership. In September 2019, a Japan-India Defense Ministerial Meeting was held followed by the first Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting in November of the same year. On COVID, the white paper said, that the "pandemic may expose and intensify strategic competition among countries intending to create international and regional orders more preferable to themselves and to expand their influence."

From India to Bhutan to South China Sea, Beijing unilaterally attempting to change status quo: Japan 

A Japanese director's documentary following the real life of ordinary people in post-epidemic Wuhan has again become a hit in both China and Japan.

Japanese director documents real life in post-epidemic Wuhan

Several US Marines at two bases on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa have been infected with the coronavirus. The outbreaks occurred at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, which is at the center of a relocation dispute, and Camp Hansen.

To this end, Okinawa’s governor on Saturday demanded an adequate explanation from the US military for this massive outbreak.

The governor even said he could say only that a “few dozen” cases had been found recently because the US military asked that the exact figure not be released.

Local media said about 60 people had been infected.

The Marines said in a statement Friday that the troops were taking additional protective measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus and were restricting off-base activities. The statement said measures are “to protect our forces, our families, and the local community,” without providing details on the infections.

Japan has so far reported about 21,000 cases and 1,000 deaths, with Tokyo reporting more than 200 new cases for a third straight day Saturday.

Okinawa is home to more than half of about 50,000 American troops based in Japan under a bilateral security pact. It has about 150 cases of the coronavirus.

Several US Marines at two bases on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa have been infected with the coronavirus. The outbreaks occurred at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, which is at the center of a relocation dispute, and Camp Hansen.

Several US Marines at two bases on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa have been infected with the coronavirus. The outbreaks occurred at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, which is at the center of a relocation dispute, and Camp Hansen. To this end, Okinawa’s governor on Saturday demanded an adequate explanation from the US military for this massive outbreak. The governor even said he could say only that a “few dozen” cases had been found recently because the US military asked that the exact figure not be released. Local media said about 60 people had been infected. The Marines said in a statement Friday that the troops were taking additional protective measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus and were restricting off-base activities. The statement said measures are “to protect our forces, our families, and the local community,” without providing details on the infections. Japan has so far reported about 21,000 cases and 1,000 deaths, with Tokyo reporting more than 200 new cases for a third straight day Saturday. Okinawa is home to more than half of about 50,000 American troops based in Japan under a bilateral security pact. It has about 150 cases of the coronavirus.

Several US Marines in Japan's Okinawa contract coronavirus

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion.&nbsp;

Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers.

Washington approved the transaction, which will improve "the security of a major ally" in the Asia-Pacific region, the statement noted.&nbsp;

"It is vital to US national interest to assist Japan in developing and maintaining a strong and effective self-defense capability," the State Department added.&nbsp;

Japan's 2020/2021 defense budget is a record $50.3 billion, aimed at funding purchases of fighter jets and missile defense as the country eyes the threat from North Korea and China.

Japan has decided to acquire a total of 105 F-35A aircraft over the next decade, in addition to 42 F-35B aircraft.&nbsp;

At the end of 2018, the Japanese government approved a five-year defense plan that includes the entry of two aircraft carriers into its arsenal -- a first since the end of World War II.&nbsp;

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion. Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers.

The United States has approved the sale of 105 F-35 stealth aircraft to Japan for an estimated $23.11 billion. Japan had asked to buy 63 F-35A, the traditional version of the electronics-laden fighter aircraft, and 42 F-35B, the short-takeoff and vertical-landing version for aircraft carriers. Washington approved the transaction, which will improve "the security of a major ally" in the Asia-Pacific region, the statement noted. "It is vital to US national interest to assist Japan in developing and maintaining a strong and effective self-defense capability," the State Department added. Japan's 2020/2021 defense budget is a record $50.3 billion, aimed at funding purchases of fighter jets and missile defense as the country eyes the threat from North Korea and China. Japan has decided to acquire a total of 105 F-35A aircraft over the next decade, in addition to 42 F-35B aircraft. At the end of 2018, the Japanese government approved a five-year defense plan that includes the entry of two aircraft carriers into its arsenal -- a first since the end of World War II.

US to sell 105 F-35 stealth fighters to Japan

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday.

The call from Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, tasked with leading Japan`s pandemic response, came as Tokyo reported a record daily high of 243 new infections on Friday.

Infections in the capital have been creeping up since the government lifted a state of emergency about a month ago, with the notorious Kabukicho red-light district becoming a major source of cases.

"We need to take steps quickly," Nishimura told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-theme-parks-instruct-riders-to-keep-their-screams-inside-and-be-serious-311970">Also read:&nbsp;Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious'</a>

Clusters were first found among Kabukicho`s many host clubs, where smartly dressed young men entertain women customers over drinks, and then at the female equivalent hostess or "cabaret" clubs.

Outbreaks have also been found in similar clubs in Ikebukuro`s red-light district, as well as in some cafes where women dress up as maids to entertain customers in the Akihabara electronics town.

"Infections are coming out of host and cabaret clubs and it`s important to take firm measures there," Nishimura said.

"We need to make sure they thoroughly follow guidelines."

He did not elaborate on exactly what steps he wants the clubs to take but said he would meet experts and chiefs of the nightlife districts later on Friday to decide on measures.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who will also join the meeting, said the metropolis would step up efforts to educate nightlife workers, including through a new video that will be available on its website next week.

At a media briefing, Koike showed a clip of the video in which a young host sits at a night club in one frame asking a doctor in the opposite frame, via video chat, what kind of symptoms young people could expect if they contracted the virus. The questions would be posed in relay form by a number of hosts and hostesses, Koike said.

"In this way, they can pose whatever questions they have directly to a doctor and get easy-to-understand explanations," she said, with questions ranging from how to safely greet customers to where to go to take a PCR test.

Tokyo will also provide a service for workers to make enquiries over a messaging app, she said.

Tokyo`s jump in cases has accompanied a rise in testing to around 3,000 a day, and Economy Minister Nishimura said authorities needed to be even more aggressive to stamp out the surge.

Japan has had about 20,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 980 deaths.

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday.

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday. The call from Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, tasked with leading Japan`s pandemic response, came as Tokyo reported a record daily high of 243 new infections on Friday. Infections in the capital have been creeping up since the government lifted a state of emergency about a month ago, with the notorious Kabukicho red-light district becoming a major source of cases. "We need to take steps quickly," Nishimura told reporters. Also read: Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious' Clusters were first found among Kabukicho`s many host clubs, where smartly dressed young men entertain women customers over drinks, and then at the female equivalent hostess or "cabaret" clubs. Outbreaks have also been found in similar clubs in Ikebukuro`s red-light district, as well as in some cafes where women dress up as maids to entertain customers in the Akihabara electronics town. "Infections are coming out of host and cabaret clubs and it`s important to take firm measures there," Nishimura said. "We need to make sure they thoroughly follow guidelines." He did not elaborate on exactly what steps he wants the clubs to take but said he would meet experts and chiefs of the nightlife districts later on Friday to decide on measures. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who will also join the meeting, said the metropolis would step up efforts to educate nightlife workers, including through a new video that will be available on its website next week. At a media briefing, Koike showed a clip of the video in which a young host sits at a night club in one frame asking a doctor in the opposite frame, via video chat, what kind of symptoms young people could expect if they contracted the virus. The questions would be posed in relay form by a number of hosts and hostesses, Koike said. "In this way, they can pose whatever questions they have directly to a doctor and get easy-to-understand explanations," she said, with questions ranging from how to safely greet customers to where to go to take a PCR test. Tokyo will also provide a service for workers to make enquiries over a messaging app, she said. Tokyo`s jump in cases has accompanied a rise in testing to around 3,000 a day, and Economy Minister Nishimura said authorities needed to be even more aggressive to stamp out the surge. Japan has had about 20,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 980 deaths.

Japan nightclub 'hotspots' must follow coronavirus rules to stop spread: government

Superstorms, landslides, heat waves and raging wildfires have occurred even as the world battles the pandemic. China Rescue teams have been scrambling in the country, although not in full strength.

Superstorms, landslides, heat waves and raging wildfires have occurred even as the world battles the pandemic. China Rescue teams have been scrambling in the country, although not in full strength. They are fighting a war in multiple fronts as heavy rainfall continues to batter large parts of China. On Wednesday, a landslide buried nine people in Hubei province. So far, more than 100 people have been killed in floods caused by the worst storm in decades. In the affected areas rainfall is two to three times higher than normal. A dam in south-eastern China opened its gates for the first time in nine years to lower water levels. It is a difficult time for students sitting for the national college entrance exam or the Gaokao. Nearly 11 million students are taking the exam this year. In the eastern Anhui province, floods have already delayed two tests. Japan Floods and landslides have killed at least 58 people in Japan. Heavy rains have caused rivers to burst their bank. Floods have swept away bridges and submerged houses. Now, entire south-western Japan is on high alert. More torrential rain is expected in the coming days. An emergency warning has been raised to the second-highest level. About 3.6 million people have been advised to evacuate. United States of America The wildfire in the US state of Nevada has now doubled in size. So far, it has engulfed 18,000 acres of land near Carson city. Aerial crews are helping more than 400 firefighters on the ground battling the blaze. Residents in the neighbouring areas are being evacuated. Another huge wildfire is burning in northern California. On July 4, America's independence day -- firefighters battled over 60 wildfires near Fairfield. Ukraine A forest fire has killed six people in eastern Ukraine. The fire broke out in the Luhansk region and spread over 200 acres. It is partially under the control of pro-Russia separatists. More than 120 houses were burnt down close to the battlefront between the separatists and Ukrainian forces. Water-bombing planes have been sent to put out the blaze. Russia Russia is sweltering in unusually high temperatures. Heatwaves struck capital Moscow and four other regions. In Moscow -- special cooling rooms have been set up around the city. With temperatures soaring above 30 degrees celsius. Authorities have declared an orange danger level. In several parts of Russia -- wildfires are intensifying due to the heat.

World battles coronavirus pandemic amid superstorms and wildfires

Visitors to Japan's amusements parks have been asked to keep their ''screams inside'' and ''adopt a&nbsp;serious'' face for their ride photo instead of screaming and howling&nbsp;to prevent to the spread of COVID-19 through droplets.

Limited football fans that have been allowed into stadiums this weekend have also been recommended&nbsp;to support their teams without singing, clapping or waving scarves.

When the Fuji-Q Highland theme park reopened on 1 June after a three-month closure due to the pandemic, it asked visitors to follow the recommendations of the amusement park association and not to shout or scream.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-changes-administrative-status-of-disputed-islands-china-dispatches-ships-307705">Japan changes administrative status of disputed islands, China dispatches ships</a>

However, when thrill seekers found it difficult to adhere to the recommendation, they lodged&nbsp;several complaints stating that were found it ''nearly impossible to stay quiet on the rides'', especially the&nbsp;two-kilometre-long Fujiyama rollercoaster, which reaches speeds of 130km/h and drops 70 metres at one point.

The rollercoaster was the fastest and tallest in the world when it opened in 1996. It was named after nearby Mount Fuji.

The park in response released a video of two stony-faced senior executives riding Fujiyama without uttering a peep, urging visitors to imitate them.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PMm5QVZ6QeY" width="560"></iframe>

Fuji-Q also went ahead and launched a #Mao serious face challenge to encourage customers to follow the recommendations and also win a chance to get get free tickets to the amusement park.

The visitors posted their entries on social network site Twitter.

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今日は夫婦で心の中で絶叫❗️いろんな疲れやストレスが吹っ飛びました。 
FUJIYAMAよ…またいつか会いに行くから、待っててね❗️ 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%9C%9F%E9%A1%94%E3%83%81%E3%83%A3%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#真顔チャレンジ</a> <a href="https://t.co/qY84W2D4jg">pic.twitter.com/qY84W2D4jg</a>
— はると (@E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR) <a href="https://twitter.com/E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR/status/1279700714743230465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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カメラ向こうか正面向くか迷った末のカメラ目線 
FUJIYAMA4回も乗れたしめっちゃ楽しかった！！<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E7%9C%9F%E9%A1%94%E3%83%81%E3%83%A3%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#真顔チャレンジ</a> <a href="https://t.co/dM2qabGp8M">pic.twitter.com/dM2qabGp8M</a>
— なおっきー (@ike_naokki) <a href="https://twitter.com/ike_naokki/status/1277563784907780096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Visitors to Japan's amusements parks have been asked to keep their ''screams inside'' and ''adopt a serious'' face for their ride photo instead of screaming and howling to prevent to the spread of COVID-19 through droplets.

Visitors to Japan's amusements parks have been asked to keep their ''screams inside'' and ''adopt a serious'' face for their ride photo instead of screaming and howling to prevent to the spread of COVID-19 through droplets. Limited football fans that have been allowed into stadiums this weekend have also been recommended to support their teams without singing, clapping or waving scarves. When the Fuji-Q Highland theme park reopened on 1 June after a three-month closure due to the pandemic, it asked visitors to follow the recommendations of the amusement park association and not to shout or scream. Also read: Japan changes administrative status of disputed islands, China dispatches ships However, when thrill seekers found it difficult to adhere to the recommendation, they lodged several complaints stating that were found it ''nearly impossible to stay quiet on the rides'', especially the two-kilometre-long Fujiyama rollercoaster, which reaches speeds of 130km/h and drops 70 metres at one point. The rollercoaster was the fastest and tallest in the world when it opened in 1996. It was named after nearby Mount Fuji. The park in response released a video of two stony-faced senior executives riding Fujiyama without uttering a peep, urging visitors to imitate them. Fuji-Q also went ahead and launched a #Mao serious face challenge to encourage customers to follow the recommendations and also win a chance to get get free tickets to the amusement park. The visitors posted their entries on social network site Twitter. 今日は夫婦で心の中で絶叫❗️いろんな疲れやストレスが吹っ飛びました。 FUJIYAMAよ…またいつか会いに行くから、待っててね❗️ #真顔チャレンジ pic.twitter.com/qY84W2D4jg — はると (@E2MMiCmqSNMrDxR) July 5, 2020 × カメラ向こうか正面向くか迷った末のカメラ目線 FUJIYAMA4回も乗れたしめっちゃ楽しかった！！#真顔チャレンジ pic.twitter.com/dM2qabGp8M — なおっきー (@ike_naokki) June 29, 2020 ×

Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious'

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling party has adopted a resolution urging the government cancel a visit to Japan by Chinese President Xi Jinping following the implementation of a new national security law for Hong Kong.

Japan's ruling party calls for govt to cancel Xi's visit | Japan-China

With their stadium devoid of fans due to coronavirus restrictions, Japanese baseball team Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks have come up with an imaginative, if a little creepy, replacement: dancing robots.

Dancing robots replace fans at Japanese baseball game

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling party adopted a resolution on June 6 urging the government to cancel a visit to Japan by Chinese President Xi Jinping following Beijing’s imposition of a new national security law for Hong Kong.

Japan has criticised China's move in Hong Kong | Xi Jinping visit cancelled

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours.

Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its second-highest emergency warning for heavy rain and landslides over vast swathes of the country's southwest and said "risks are rising" nationwide.

Television footage showed swollen rivers breaking their banks and sweeping away bridges while landslides destroyed roads and buried houses, complicating access for the 80,000 rescue personnel battling to save lives.

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At least 52&nbsp;deaths have been confirmed in the rains that began early Saturday, top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said, but the toll is expected to rise, with four more feared dead and over a dozen reported missing.

He warned that more heavy rain was forecast over the next two days, saying: "Even a small amount of rainfall could cause a disaster. I would like people to be on full alert against landslides and floods."

In the hardest-hit region of Kumamoto, on the southwest tip of Japan, disaster management official Yutaro Hamasaki said: "We are racing against time."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures%3A-battling-the-deadly-japan-floods--149908">In pictures: Battling the deadly Japan floods</a>

"We have not set any deadline or time to end the operation, but we really need to speed up our search as time is running out. We won't give up to the end," Hamasaki said.

Fourteen of the dead were wheelchair-bound residents of a nursing home unable to escape to higher ground as the waters rose.

A rescue worker who searched the facility told NHK: "The ground floor was filled with water and we couldn't get into it. Some people managed to evacuate to the first floor. I've never experienced anything like this in my life."

Further complicating evacuation efforts was the fear of spreading the coronavirus.

Japan has been relatively lightly affected by the pandemic, with just under 20,000 cases and fewer than 1,000 deaths.

But the need to maintain social distancing has reduced capacity at evacuation shelters.

The disaster has also compounded problems for businesses already hard hit by the pandemic.

Japan is in the middle of its annual rainy season, which frequently unleashes deadly floods and landslides. Climate change has intensified the risks of heavy rains, because a warmer atmosphere holds more water.

In 2018, more than 200 people died in devastating floods in the same region of Japan.

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours.

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours. Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its second-highest emergency warning for heavy rain and landslides over vast swathes of the country's southwest and said "risks are rising" nationwide. Television footage showed swollen rivers breaking their banks and sweeping away bridges while landslides destroyed roads and buried houses, complicating access for the 80,000 rescue personnel battling to save lives. At least 52 deaths have been confirmed in the rains that began early Saturday, top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said, but the toll is expected to rise, with four more feared dead and over a dozen reported missing. He warned that more heavy rain was forecast over the next two days, saying: "Even a small amount of rainfall could cause a disaster. I would like people to be on full alert against landslides and floods." In the hardest-hit region of Kumamoto, on the southwest tip of Japan, disaster management official Yutaro Hamasaki said: "We are racing against time." In pictures: Battling the deadly Japan floods "We have not set any deadline or time to end the operation, but we really need to speed up our search as time is running out. We won't give up to the end," Hamasaki said. Fourteen of the dead were wheelchair-bound residents of a nursing home unable to escape to higher ground as the waters rose. A rescue worker who searched the facility told NHK: "The ground floor was filled with water and we couldn't get into it. Some people managed to evacuate to the first floor. I've never experienced anything like this in my life." Further complicating evacuation efforts was the fear of spreading the coronavirus. Japan has been relatively lightly affected by the pandemic, with just under 20,000 cases and fewer than 1,000 deaths. But the need to maintain social distancing has reduced capacity at evacuation shelters. The disaster has also compounded problems for businesses already hard hit by the pandemic. Japan is in the middle of its annual rainy season, which frequently unleashes deadly floods and landslides. Climate change has intensified the risks of heavy rains, because a warmer atmosphere holds more water. In 2018, more than 200 people died in devastating floods in the same region of Japan.

Japan : Atleast 52 dead in floods and landslides as rescuers 'race against time'

&nbsp;Nearly 40 people were feared dead as torrential rains continued to hit Japan's southwestern island of Kyushu, with river banks at risk of bursting on Monday morning and new evacuation orders put in place.&nbsp;

Flooding and mudslides that began at the weekend have killed 21 people so far. A further 18 people were showing no vital signs and presumed dead pending official confirmation, and 13 people were missing, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said at a news conference.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/several-dead-missing-in-japan-as-heavy-rain-causes-floods-310854" hreflang="en">Several dead, missing in Japan as heavy rain causes floods</a>

"I offer my deepest condolences for those who have passed from the torrential rains," Suga said, adding that some 40,000 members of the Self-Defence Force were involved in rescue missions.

He added that evacuation centres were also working on preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus by distributing disinfectant and asking evacuees to maintain their distance from each other.

Also read: <a href="/world/14-feared-dead-at-flooded-nursing-home-in-japan-310673" hreflang="en">14 feared dead at flooded nursing home in Japan</a>&nbsp;

As of Saturday, some 200,000 have been ordered to evacuate their homes, according to Kyodo news agency.

The floods are Japan's worst natural disaster since Typhoon Hagibis in October last year that left about 90 people dead.

Nearly 40 people were feared dead as torrential rains continued to hit Japan's southwestern island of Kyushu, with river banks at risk of bursting on Monday morning and new evacuation orders put in place.

Nearly 40 people were feared dead as torrential rains continued to hit Japan's southwestern island of Kyushu, with river banks at risk of bursting on Monday morning and new evacuation orders put in place. Flooding and mudslides that began at the weekend have killed 21 people so far. A further 18 people were showing no vital signs and presumed dead pending official confirmation, and 13 people were missing, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said at a news conference. Also read: Several dead, missing in Japan as heavy rain causes floods "I offer my deepest condolences for those who have passed from the torrential rains," Suga said, adding that some 40,000 members of the Self-Defence Force were involved in rescue missions. He added that evacuation centres were also working on preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus by distributing disinfectant and asking evacuees to maintain their distance from each other. Also read: 14 feared dead at flooded nursing home in Japan As of Saturday, some 200,000 have been ordered to evacuate their homes, according to Kyodo news agency. The floods are Japan's worst natural disaster since Typhoon Hagibis in October last year that left about 90 people dead.

Nearly 40 feared dead as torrential rains hit southwest Japan

Large areas along the Kuma river were swallowed by floodwaters, with many houses, buildings and vehicles submerged almost up to their roofs.

At least 34 killed as floods batter Japan

About 34 people are feared or confirmed dead -- including 14 at a nursing home -- after torrential rain in Japan triggered massive floods and mudslides.&nbsp;Rescuers have been searching for 14 people missing after floods hit the Kumamoto region on the southwestern island of Kyushu.

Japan is currently in its rainy season, which often causes floods and landslides and prompts local authorities to issue evacuation orders.

The regional government confirmed 18 people had died, while another 16 were in a critical state.

Fourteen of the victims were at a nursing home that was inundated when local rivers broke their banks. Emergency services rescued 50 people from the facility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/14-feared-dead-at-flooded-nursing-home-in-japan-310673">Also read |&nbsp;14 feared dead at flooded nursing home in Japan</a>

More than 2,00,000 people have been urged to evacuate as authorities requested those in emergency shelters to wash their hands, wear masks and maintain social distance to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

At a cabinet-level meeting in Tokyo on the disaster, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to offer financial support, while warning residents in Kumamoto to brace for more rain.

Heavy rain is expected in the region through Monday, Abe added.&nbsp;He also warned residents to monitor news for further risks associated with flooding and landslides.

Communities along the Kuma River, which passes through Hitoyoshi, have been hit hard by the floodwaters.

Although the rain had eased in Kumamoto by Sunday morning, collapsed bridges and blocked roads due to flooding and mudslides have left many isolated in the region.

A large "SOS" sign was created on the grounds of what used to be an elementary school in Yatsushiro city, where about 10 people waved white towels at rescue and media helicopters.

Rescue workers and troops from the Self-Defense Forces used boats and helicopters to reach those stranded.

(with inputs from AFP)

About 34 people are feared or confirmed dead -- including 14 at a nursing home -- after torrential rain in Japan triggered massive floods and mudslides. Rescuers have been searching for 14 people missing after floods hit the Kumamoto region on the southwestern island of Kyushu.

About 34 people are feared or confirmed dead -- including 14 at a nursing home -- after torrential rain in Japan triggered massive floods and mudslides. Rescuers have been searching for 14 people missing after floods hit the Kumamoto region on the southwestern island of Kyushu. Japan is currently in its rainy season, which often causes floods and landslides and prompts local authorities to issue evacuation orders. The regional government confirmed 18 people had died, while another 16 were in a critical state. Fourteen of the victims were at a nursing home that was inundated when local rivers broke their banks. Emergency services rescued 50 people from the facility. Also read | 14 feared dead at flooded nursing home in Japan More than 2,00,000 people have been urged to evacuate as authorities requested those in emergency shelters to wash their hands, wear masks and maintain social distance to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. At a cabinet-level meeting in Tokyo on the disaster, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to offer financial support, while warning residents in Kumamoto to brace for more rain. Heavy rain is expected in the region through Monday, Abe added. He also warned residents to monitor news for further risks associated with flooding and landslides. Communities along the Kuma River, which passes through Hitoyoshi, have been hit hard by the floodwaters. Although the rain had eased in Kumamoto by Sunday morning, collapsed bridges and blocked roads due to flooding and mudslides have left many isolated in the region. A large "SOS" sign was created on the grounds of what used to be an elementary school in Yatsushiro city, where about 10 people waved white towels at rescue and media helicopters. Rescue workers and troops from the Self-Defense Forces used boats and helicopters to reach those stranded. (with inputs from AFP)

Several dead, missing in Japan as heavy rain causes floods

Tokyo confirmed about 130 new cases of infections of the coronavirus on Saturday, a third consecutive day with more than 100 new cases, news agency Reuters reported quoting public broadcaster NHK.

Tokyo confirmed about 130 new cases of infections of the coronavirus on Saturday, a third consecutive day with more than 100 new cases, news agency Reuters reported quoting public broadcaster NHK. Cases in Tokyo have risen to a two-month high, driven largely by the spread of the virus in the capital's night spots. Tokyo on Friday reported 124 new cases, up from 107 the day before, partly due to increased testing among nightlife workers in the Shinjuku and Ikebukuro districts. Japan's infection rates remain far below many other countries but the rising number of cases and the possibility of renewed restrictions have put authorities and businesses on edge. (With inputs from Reuters)

Tokyo new coronavirus infections over 100 for third day: Report

Personal mobility devices to transport passengers with limited mobility are rolling at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, in an automation play for labour shortage-hit Japan that has taken on new urgency as the coronavirus outbreak compels social distancing.

Tokyo airport introduces automated rideables in social distancing play

Tokyo Disneyland reopened on Wednesday (July 1) to fanfare and strengthened social distancing measures after four months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tokyo Disneyland reopens to fanfare and social distancing after coronavirus shutdown

The United States has told Japan that it wants to organise an in-person Group of Seven leaders’ summit in late August, according to a Reuters report.

In response, Japan told the United States that its Prime Minister Shinzo Abe would be willing to attend the summit if it were to be held in late August.

US President Donald Trump decided in May to postpone the summit to September or later expand the list of invitees to include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India.

Although it is not clear why the event would be held earlier than September, opinion polls show clear signs of erosion of Trump’s electoral support since the coronavirus outbreak.

The G7 groups the United States, Britain, France, Japan, Germany, Italy and Canada, and the European Union also attends.

The United States has told Japan that it wants to organise an in-person Group of Seven leaders’ summit in late August, according to a Reuters report. In response, Japan told the United States that its Prime Minister Shinzo Abe would be willing to attend the summit if it were to be held in late August.

The United States has told Japan that it wants to organise an in-person Group of Seven leaders’ summit in late August, according to a Reuters report. In response, Japan told the United States that its Prime Minister Shinzo Abe would be willing to attend the summit if it were to be held in late August. US President Donald Trump decided in May to postpone the summit to September or later expand the list of invitees to include Australia, Russia, South Korea and India. Although it is not clear why the event would be held earlier than September, opinion polls show clear signs of erosion of Trump’s electoral support since the coronavirus outbreak. The G7 groups the United States, Britain, France, Japan, Germany, Italy and Canada, and the European Union also attends.

US is hoping for an in-person G7 summit in late August, say Japanese sources

Pedestrians with phones may be a common sight the world over but Japan's Yamato city has submitted a bill to authorities to prevent people from using mobile phones while walking.

City officials say the move has been made after the number of accidents had increased due to the use of smartphones.

The ban may come into effect next month with officials insisting that they will set up an awareness campaign to warn citizens about the dangers of being on call while walking the streets.

The bill if passed will be the first in Japan.

According to a US survey, 1.6 million car crashes occur per year in the country with 25 per cent accidents being caused due to texting and driving.

The World Health Organisation(WHO) had estimated that mobile use makes accidents four times more likely. In Australia, authorities have estimated that 9 per cent of fatal car crashes were caused by distracted drivers which including mobile phone users.

According to the Harvard center for risk analysis, 330,000 injuries per year caused due to texting while driving cars.

Pedestrians with phones may be a common sight the world over but Japan's Yamato city has submitted a bill to authorities to prevent people from using mobile phones while walking.

Pedestrians with phones may be a common sight the world over but Japan's Yamato city has submitted a bill to authorities to prevent people from using mobile phones while walking. City officials say the move has been made after the number of accidents had increased due to the use of smartphones. The ban may come into effect next month with officials insisting that they will set up an awareness campaign to warn citizens about the dangers of being on call while walking the streets. The bill if passed will be the first in Japan. According to a US survey, 1.6 million car crashes occur per year in the country with 25 per cent accidents being caused due to texting and driving. The World Health Organisation(WHO) had estimated that mobile use makes accidents four times more likely. In Australia, authorities have estimated that 9 per cent of fatal car crashes were caused by distracted drivers which including mobile phone users. According to the Harvard center for risk analysis, 330,000 injuries per year caused due to texting while driving cars.

Japanese city aims to ban mobile phone for pedestrians

The decline followed a 13.9% drop in April, which was the biggest fall since March 1998

May retail sales fell sharply in Japan

Countries around the world are racing to develop a cure for COVID-19. Japan has become a victim of its own success. The country cannot find enough patients for its clinical trial. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Lack of patients for clinical trials in Japan

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened.

Health ministry official Yasuyuki Sahara said while there was no target number for downloads, “we want to make as many people as possible to use this app”.

Apps such as this may be able to halt an epidemic if usage reaches 60 per cent&nbsp;of the population, according to an Oxford University study.

Yuki Furuse, a professor at Kyoto University, said there’s debate about whether usage has to be that high to be effective, but “the more people use the app, the more it would be effective for the outbreak response.”

Japan lifted a state of emergency in late May. It has weathered the epidemic better than most developed countries, with almost 18,000 infections and 969 deaths.

The app, named COCOA for Contact-Confirming Application, was designed by Microsoft Corp and is available for Apple Inc’s iPhone and devices using Google’s Android software.

It uses Bluetooth signals to detect contact with nearby users lasting 15 minutes or more. If a user later tests positive for the virus, their contacts can be traced and notified through the programme.

Numerous countries have rolled out contact-tracing apps, including Australia, Malaysia, Britain, India, Germany and Italy.

Singapore was among the first with its TraceTogether app launched in March, but privacy concerns hampered its uptake, prompting a switch to wearable devices.

The new coronavirus, which was first detected in China in late 2019, has infected more than 9.62 million people globally and 488,467​ have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened.

Japan’s COVID-19 contact-tracing app has been downloaded more than 4 million times since its launch a week ago as the government seeks to head off a second wave of infections now that businesses and schools have reopened. Health ministry official Yasuyuki Sahara said while there was no target number for downloads, “we want to make as many people as possible to use this app”. Apps such as this may be able to halt an epidemic if usage reaches 60 per cent of the population, according to an Oxford University study. Yuki Furuse, a professor at Kyoto University, said there’s debate about whether usage has to be that high to be effective, but “the more people use the app, the more it would be effective for the outbreak response.” Japan lifted a state of emergency in late May. It has weathered the epidemic better than most developed countries, with almost 18,000 infections and 969 deaths. The app, named COCOA for Contact-Confirming Application, was designed by Microsoft Corp and is available for Apple Inc’s iPhone and devices using Google’s Android software. It uses Bluetooth signals to detect contact with nearby users lasting 15 minutes or more. If a user later tests positive for the virus, their contacts can be traced and notified through the programme. Numerous countries have rolled out contact-tracing apps, including Australia, Malaysia, Britain, India, Germany and Italy. Singapore was among the first with its TraceTogether app launched in March, but privacy concerns hampered its uptake, prompting a switch to wearable devices. The new coronavirus, which was first detected in China in late 2019, has infected more than 9.62 million people globally and 488,467 have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Japan's COVID-19 app reaches 4 million downloads in the first week

Japan recently approved a bill to change the administrative status of a group of&nbsp;islands which have&nbsp;been claimed by both China and Japan, and has remained a point of disagreement for both the countries.

Administrative purposes?

Japan’s Okinawa city council approved the bill on Monday. The Ishigaki City Council will change the administrative status of the island group known as Senkakus in Japan, and as Diaoyus in China.

The island group is currently not inhabited by humans. After Japan’s announcement, Beijing protested against the move while sending its coast guard ships to the area.

<h6><img alt="This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 12, 2012 shows a Chinese fishing patrol ship cruising near a group of disputed islands known as the Senkakus in Japan and the Diaoyus in China in the East China Sea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f5a7f52-54df-4896-811d-c7021bac58de" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-9_0.jpg" /> 
This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 12, 2012 shows a Chinese fishing patrol ship cruising near a group of disputed islands known as the Senkakus in Japan and the Diaoyus in China in the East China Sea | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

According to the bill, the administrative name of the island group will be changed from Tonoshiro to Tonoshiro Senkaku, in a bid to ward off confusion, as another area in Japan is known by the name of Ishigaki, as reported by local media in Japan.

The group of islands accounts for territory worth 1,931 kilometres (roughly 1,200 miles), and lies in the area southwest of Tokyo. Under Japanese administration since 1972, China asserts its claims on the land, saying it dates back to hundreds of years. 
 
China's "inherent territory"?

China was quick to respond to Japan’s plans and issued&nbsp;a statement, as follows.&nbsp;"Diaoyu island and the affiliated islands are China's inherent territory, China is resolute in safeguarding our territorial sovereignty, this so-called administrative re-designation is a serious provocation towards China's territorial sovereignty," said Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry.

Additionally, China has dispatched a “fleet” of ships to the area surrounding the islands.

"We ask Japan to abide by the spirit of the four-principle consensus, avoid creating new incidents on the Diaoyu Islands issue, and take practical actions to maintain the stability of the East China Sea situation," China said.

<h6><img alt="This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 13, 2012 shows a Chinese state-owned plane flying in airspace over the disputed island, called the Senkakus in Japanese and Diaoyus in Chinese, in the East China Sea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6b29246-74ee-4ac2-90f2-ab536386e0dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-10_1.jpg" />This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 13, 2012 shows a Chinese state-owned plane flying in airspace over the disputed island, called the Senkakus in Japanese and Diaoyus in Chinese, in the East China Sea | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

One of the defining tenets of this consensus was the fact that Japan should acknowledge the disputed nature of the territory.

However, Japan claims that the move was made to ease administrative function within the country, henceforth not taking into account any international actors.

"The approval of this case did not take into consideration the influence of other countries, but was considered to improve the efficiency of administrative procedures," the council said.

China’s presence in the region surrounding the islands has been increasing over the last few months. Japanese government claimed that Chinese ships had been spotted since mid-April, setting records for the highest number of sightings in the region.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Japan recently approved a bill to change the administrative status of a group of islands which have been claimed by both China and Japan, and has remained a point of disagreement for both the countries.

Japan recently approved a bill to change the administrative status of a group of islands which have been claimed by both China and Japan, and has remained a point of disagreement for both the countries. Administrative purposes? Japan’s Okinawa city council approved the bill on Monday. The Ishigaki City Council will change the administrative status of the island group known as Senkakus in Japan, and as Diaoyus in China. The island group is currently not inhabited by humans. After Japan’s announcement, Beijing protested against the move while sending its coast guard ships to the area. This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 12, 2012 shows a Chinese fishing patrol ship cruising near a group of disputed islands known as the Senkakus in Japan and the Diaoyus in China in the East China Sea | AFP According to the bill, the administrative name of the island group will be changed from Tonoshiro to Tonoshiro Senkaku, in a bid to ward off confusion, as another area in Japan is known by the name of Ishigaki, as reported by local media in Japan. The group of islands accounts for territory worth 1,931 kilometres (roughly 1,200 miles), and lies in the area southwest of Tokyo. Under Japanese administration since 1972, China asserts its claims on the land, saying it dates back to hundreds of years. China's "inherent territory"? China was quick to respond to Japan’s plans and issued a statement, as follows. "Diaoyu island and the affiliated islands are China's inherent territory, China is resolute in safeguarding our territorial sovereignty, this so-called administrative re-designation is a serious provocation towards China's territorial sovereignty," said Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry. Additionally, China has dispatched a “fleet” of ships to the area surrounding the islands. "We ask Japan to abide by the spirit of the four-principle consensus, avoid creating new incidents on the Diaoyu Islands issue, and take practical actions to maintain the stability of the East China Sea situation," China said. This handout picture taken by Japan Coast Guard on December 13, 2012 shows a Chinese state-owned plane flying in airspace over the disputed island, called the Senkakus in Japanese and Diaoyus in Chinese, in the East China Sea | AFP One of the defining tenets of this consensus was the fact that Japan should acknowledge the disputed nature of the territory. However, Japan claims that the move was made to ease administrative function within the country, henceforth not taking into account any international actors. "The approval of this case did not take into consideration the influence of other countries, but was considered to improve the efficiency of administrative procedures," the council said. China’s presence in the region surrounding the islands has been increasing over the last few months. Japanese government claimed that Chinese ships had been spotted since mid-April, setting records for the highest number of sightings in the region. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan changes administrative status of disputed islands, China dispatches ships

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