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Police believe a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-engulfs-world-heritage-castle-in-japans-okinawa-258989">fire that tore through</a> World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources.

In analysing the evidence, such as surveillance footage at the destroyed castle, local police have found no traces of intrusion into the castle before the fire breaking out, Kyodo reported, citing unnamed investigators.

The blaze was believed to have started in the main hall early on Thursday morning, public broadcaster NHK said. The fire was put out nearly 12 hours later, but by then most of the wooden castle's major buildings had been reduced to charred skeletons.

A spokesman at the main police station at Naha, the capital city of Okinawa prefecture, said investigations are still going on and the police have not excluded any possibilities. "As we are still in the middle of the investigation, we can't say anything further," he said.

Shuri Castle, once a palace and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom which flourished from the 15th to 19th century, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 and was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

Police believe a fire that tore through World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources.

Police believe a fire that tore through World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources. In analysing the evidence, such as surveillance footage at the destroyed castle, local police have found no traces of intrusion into the castle before the fire breaking out, Kyodo reported, citing unnamed investigators. The blaze was believed to have started in the main hall early on Thursday morning, public broadcaster NHK said. The fire was put out nearly 12 hours later, but by then most of the wooden castle's major buildings had been reduced to charred skeletons. A spokesman at the main police station at Naha, the capital city of Okinawa prefecture, said investigations are still going on and the police have not excluded any possibilities. "As we are still in the middle of the investigation, we can't say anything further," he said. Shuri Castle, once a palace and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom which flourished from the 15th to 19th century, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 and was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

Police believe Japan's castle fire unlikely caused by arson: Report

Seven South Koreans were missing Friday after their helicopter took off from islets disputed with Japan and crashed into the sea moments later, Seoul officials said.

The aircraft had just picked an injured fisherman up from Dokdo, which is known as Takeshima in Japan when it went down on Thursday night.

The South's coast guard, members of the National Fire Agency and civilian boats were searching for survivors, while the defence ministry had also sent planes and divers to the area, a spokesman for the South's National Fire Agency told AFP.

The crashed chopper is a Eurocopter EC225, made by the European aerospace corporation Airbus.

The seven people on board were five rescuers, the fisherman and a civilian.

"The patient was on a fishing boat when he lost one of his fingers through an accident, and the crew took him to Dokdo and waited for the rescue helicopter there," the official said.

"The patient needed an immediate medical operation that could have only been done at facilities on the mainland."

Seoul has controlled the islets of Dokdo in the Sea of Japan, or East Sea, since 1945, when Tokyo's brutal colonial rule on the peninsula ended, while Tokyo still claims sovereignty over them.

Seven South Koreans were missing Friday after their helicopter took off from islets disputed with Japan and crashed into the sea moments later, Seoul officials said.

Seven South Koreans were missing Friday after their helicopter took off from islets disputed with Japan and crashed into the sea moments later, Seoul officials said. The aircraft had just picked an injured fisherman up from Dokdo, which is known as Takeshima in Japan when it went down on Thursday night. The South's coast guard, members of the National Fire Agency and civilian boats were searching for survivors, while the defence ministry had also sent planes and divers to the area, a spokesman for the South's National Fire Agency told AFP. The crashed chopper is a Eurocopter EC225, made by the European aerospace corporation Airbus. The seven people on board were five rescuers, the fisherman and a civilian. "The patient was on a fishing boat when he lost one of his fingers through an accident, and the crew took him to Dokdo and waited for the rescue helicopter there," the official said. "The patient needed an immediate medical operation that could have only been done at facilities on the mainland." Seoul has controlled the islets of Dokdo in the Sea of Japan, or East Sea, since 1945, when Tokyo's brutal colonial rule on the peninsula ended, while Tokyo still claims sovereignty over them.

Seven South Koreans missing after helicopter crash near disputed islets

Indian shares extended gains seen through the week on Friday, as a raft of strong earnings raised expectations of a better December quarter.

Broader Asian shares reversed early losses with MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan inching up 0.16 per cent&nbsp;after a surprise bounce in Chinese manufacturing activity boosted investor sentiment.

In domestic markets, the broader NSE index&nbsp;was up 0.23 per cent&nbsp;at 11,904.05 as of 0405 GMT, while the benchmark BSE index&nbsp;was 0.25 per cent&nbsp;higher at 40,219.86.

Indian shares have seen steady gains in the last few sessions buoyed by positive global cues, a strong set of corporate results and expectations of a better third quarter.

The Nifty Media index&nbsp;rose as much as 3.49 per cent, gaining the most among the 14 sectoral NSE indexes.

The Nifty PSU Bank index, which tracks the country`s state-run lenders, rose as much as 0.83 per cent, with shares of Central Bank of India rising nearly 6 per cent.

"Today is the first day of the new derivative segment and we have had one of the best months in the last four months, so that positivity has continued," said A.K. Prabhakar, head of research at IDBI Capital in Mumbai.

Auto stocks will be in focus on Friday as automakers are set to report their monthly sales data. The Nifty Auto index&nbsp;inched up 0.24 per cent&nbsp;in early trade.

Shares of lender Yes Bank Ltd were flat ahead of quarterly results announcement.

State-owned oil retailer<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-oil-profit-tanks-83-as-refining-margins-shrink-259071"> Indian Oil Corporation</a> Ltd slipped as much as 4.22 per cent&nbsp;and was the biggest loser on the NSE index after the refiner recorded an 83 per cent&nbsp;slide in quarterly profit.

Meanwhile, India`s fiscal deficit in the six months through September approached 93 per cent&nbsp;of the target for the full year, limiting the scope for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider more tax cuts to boost economic growth.

Indian shares extended gains seen through the week on Friday, as a raft of strong earnings raised expectations of a better December quarter. Broader Asian shares reversed early losses with MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan inching up 0.

Indian shares extended gains seen through the week on Friday, as a raft of strong earnings raised expectations of a better December quarter. Broader Asian shares reversed early losses with MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan inching up 0.16 per cent after a surprise bounce in Chinese manufacturing activity boosted investor sentiment. In domestic markets, the broader NSE index was up 0.23 per cent at 11,904.05 as of 0405 GMT, while the benchmark BSE index was 0.25 per cent higher at 40,219.86. Indian shares have seen steady gains in the last few sessions buoyed by positive global cues, a strong set of corporate results and expectations of a better third quarter. The Nifty Media index rose as much as 3.49 per cent, gaining the most among the 14 sectoral NSE indexes. The Nifty PSU Bank index, which tracks the country`s state-run lenders, rose as much as 0.83 per cent, with shares of Central Bank of India rising nearly 6 per cent. "Today is the first day of the new derivative segment and we have had one of the best months in the last four months, so that positivity has continued," said A.K. Prabhakar, head of research at IDBI Capital in Mumbai. Auto stocks will be in focus on Friday as automakers are set to report their monthly sales data. The Nifty Auto index inched up 0.24 per cent in early trade. Shares of lender Yes Bank Ltd were flat ahead of quarterly results announcement. State-owned oil retailer Indian Oil Corporation Ltd slipped as much as 4.22 per cent and was the biggest loser on the NSE index after the refiner recorded an 83 per cent slide in quarterly profit. Meanwhile, India`s fiscal deficit in the six months through September approached 93 per cent of the target for the full year, limiting the scope for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider more tax cuts to boost economic growth.

Nifty, Sensex extend gains, Indian Oil Corporation drops after weak results

Mazda&nbsp;Motor Corp&nbsp;cut its annual&nbsp;profit&nbsp;forecast by nearly half on Friday as the Japanese automaker expects a&nbsp;strong&nbsp;yen&nbsp;and falling cars&nbsp;sales&nbsp;in the United States and&nbsp;China, its biggest markets, to drive earnings to a seven-year low.

Japan's fifth-largest automaker expects to post $555.4 million&nbsp;in operating&nbsp;profit&nbsp;for the year ending March, down from a prior outlook of 110 billion&nbsp;yen, and lower than a mean forecast of 69.5 billion&nbsp;yen&nbsp;from 20 analysts polled by Refinitiv.

It represents a cut of nearly&nbsp;30 per cent&nbsp;from 82.3 billion&nbsp;yen&nbsp;profit&nbsp;a year ago.

The downgrade comes after operating&nbsp;profit&nbsp;came in at 18.8 billion&nbsp;yen&nbsp;in the July-September quarter, above analysts' forecast of 14.4 billion&nbsp;yen, although&nbsp;profit&nbsp;fell for the fourth straight quarter.

Quarterly operating&nbsp;profit&nbsp;recovered from a 2.9 billion&nbsp;yen&nbsp;loss a year ago.

Demand for&nbsp;Mazda&nbsp;vehicles, including the&nbsp;Mazda3 sedan and the CX-5 SUV crossover, has slumped since the company posted record annual&nbsp;sales&nbsp;of about 1.6 million vehicles in fiscal 2018.

Mazda&nbsp;posted global&nbsp;sales&nbsp;of 378,000 units for the quarter, down 4 per cent&nbsp;from a year ago, partly due to sluggish&nbsp;sales&nbsp;in the United States and&nbsp;China.

Global automakers have been grappling with a&nbsp;sales&nbsp;slowdown, as a prolonged trade war between Washington and Beijing and slowing growth in&nbsp;China&nbsp;have cut demand for cars in the world's top two economies.

The slowdown comes as carmakers invest heavily in electric cars, autonomous driving technologies and ride-sharing services to survive a market shift away from car ownership.

Mazda Motor Corp cut its annual profit forecast by nearly half on Friday as the Japanese automaker expects a strong yen and falling cars sales in the United States and China, its biggest markets, to drive earnings to a seven-year low.

Mazda Motor Corp cut its annual profit forecast by nearly half on Friday as the Japanese automaker expects a strong yen and falling cars sales in the United States and China, its biggest markets, to drive earnings to a seven-year low. Japan's fifth-largest automaker expects to post $555.4 million in operating profit for the year ending March, down from a prior outlook of 110 billion yen, and lower than a mean forecast of 69.5 billion yen from 20 analysts polled by Refinitiv. It represents a cut of nearly 30 per cent from 82.3 billion yen profit a year ago. The downgrade comes after operating profit came in at 18.8 billion yen in the July-September quarter, above analysts' forecast of 14.4 billion yen, although profit fell for the fourth straight quarter. Quarterly operating profit recovered from a 2.9 billion yen loss a year ago. Demand for Mazda vehicles, including the Mazda3 sedan and the CX-5 SUV crossover, has slumped since the company posted record annual sales of about 1.6 million vehicles in fiscal 2018. Mazda posted global sales of 378,000 units for the quarter, down 4 per cent from a year ago, partly due to sluggish sales in the United States and China. Global automakers have been grappling with a sales slowdown, as a prolonged trade war between Washington and Beijing and slowing growth in China have cut demand for cars in the world's top two economies. The slowdown comes as carmakers invest heavily in electric cars, autonomous driving technologies and ride-sharing services to survive a market shift away from car ownership.

Mazda sees 30% FY profit drop on strong yen, weak sales in US, China

Japan's Sharp Corp, an Apple supplier, posted a profit that beat expectations and was its first rise in five quarters, driven by the strength in the laptop business it bought from Toshiba.

Sharp, which makes sensors, camera modules and screens for Apple's iPhones, posted an operating profit of 22.3 billion yen ($206.54 million) for the second quarter ended September, up from 22.2 billion yen a year prior.

That compared with a 19.65 billion yen average of 4 analyst estimates compiled by Refinitiv.

Sharp, a unit of Taiwan's Foxconn, maintained its profit forecast for the year ending March at 100 billion yen, versus a consensus estimate of 82.23 billion yen from 10 analysts.

Sharp took over Toshiba's loss-making laptop unit last year and turned it around, making it a major profit contributor, in a push to regain global presence.

The outlook for Sharp's electronic devices business is also improving as sales at its key customer Apple appear to be stabilising.

While iPhone sales fell 9 per cent&nbsp;in the three months ended September, it was smaller than the drop in recent quarters and better than analyst expectations.

Sharp, which Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, acquired control of in 2016, is aiming to expand globally by launching high-definition 8K television sets and return to the US&nbsp;TV market.

The Osaka-based firm cut back its overseas TV business and licensed China's Hisense to use its brand in the Americas in 2015 when massive losses at its core display panel unit put its survival at risk. But earlier this year, Sharp said it had effectively regained the license sold to Hisense.

Japan's Sharp Corp, an Apple supplier, posted a profit that beat expectations and was its first rise in five quarters, driven by the strength in the laptop business it bought from Toshiba.

Japan's Sharp Corp, an Apple supplier, posted a profit that beat expectations and was its first rise in five quarters, driven by the strength in the laptop business it bought from Toshiba. Sharp, which makes sensors, camera modules and screens for Apple's iPhones, posted an operating profit of 22.3 billion yen ($206.54 million) for the second quarter ended September, up from 22.2 billion yen a year prior. That compared with a 19.65 billion yen average of 4 analyst estimates compiled by Refinitiv. Sharp, a unit of Taiwan's Foxconn, maintained its profit forecast for the year ending March at 100 billion yen, versus a consensus estimate of 82.23 billion yen from 10 analysts. Sharp took over Toshiba's loss-making laptop unit last year and turned it around, making it a major profit contributor, in a push to regain global presence. The outlook for Sharp's electronic devices business is also improving as sales at its key customer Apple appear to be stabilising. While iPhone sales fell 9 per cent in the three months ended September, it was smaller than the drop in recent quarters and better than analyst expectations. Sharp, which Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, acquired control of in 2016, is aiming to expand globally by launching high-definition 8K television sets and return to the US TV market. The Osaka-based firm cut back its overseas TV business and licensed China's Hisense to use its brand in the Americas in 2015 when massive losses at its core display panel unit put its survival at risk. But earlier this year, Sharp said it had effectively regained the license sold to Hisense.

Japan's Sharp beats second-quarter profit expectations on laptop business

Japan's justice&nbsp;minister&nbsp;stepped down on Thursday - the&nbsp;second&nbsp;resignation&nbsp;from&nbsp;Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Shinzo Abe's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-abe-shakes-up-cabinet-brings-in-rising-star-249009"> newly formed&nbsp;cabinet</a>&nbsp;in less than a&nbsp;week&nbsp;- after a media report that his office gave out gifts such as potatoes and corn to constituents.

Justice&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Katsuyuki Kawai's abrupt resignation came six days after that of former trade and industry&nbsp;minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-trade-minister-resigns-over-donation-scandal-258042">Isshu Sugawara</a>, who had been accused of election law violations by allegedly giving gifts of melons and crabs to voters in his Tokyo constituency.

Both men were first-time&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;ministers, but while their resignations may be an embarrassment to Abe just&nbsp;weeks before he becomes&nbsp;Japan's longest-serving prime&nbsp;minister, they are unlikely to cause lasting damage due a lack of strong rivals and a weak opposition, analysts said.

The report in&nbsp;weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun said that in addition to Kawai distributing produce to supporters - including mangoes, usually pricey in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;- his wife, Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Anri Kawai, had paid campaign staffers more than amounts permitted by law.

Kawai said neither he nor his wive knew anything about the reported allegations and denied breaking any laws, but added that he decided to resign promptly in order to avoid harming the justice system through a loss of public trust.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Abe apologised for the&nbsp;second&nbsp;time in a&nbsp;week, saying he bore responsibility for appointing the two in a&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;reshuffle last month.

"As the person who appointed him, I bear responsibility for this, for which I apologise to the nation," Abe told reporters shortly after accepting Kawai's resignation.

"I will have to accept the harsh criticism of this situation and work even harder than ever.

Masako Mori, a former&nbsp;minister&nbsp;in charge of gender equality and measures to combat the declining birthrate, will replace Kawai.

Japan's opposition called the situation "a state of emergency" and said they would pursue the resignations in parliament.

"Resigning automatically because of a&nbsp;weekly magazine report on a matter that is strongly suspicious of illegality is, in a sense, tantamount to admitting it," said Tetsuro Fukuyama, secretary general of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of&nbsp;Japan.

"This should have been a matter worth a general resignation of the&nbsp;cabinet&nbsp;members."

But with the opposition in disarray and lacking strength, Abe is likely to survive unscathed as he has done before, analysts said.

In 2014, two&nbsp;ministers quit within hours of each other to quell brewing political funds scandals without damage to Abe.

"He's a Teflon PM who faces weak rivals and has weathered far worse," said Jeff Kingston, director of Asian Studies at Temple University's&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;campus.

Japan's justice minister stepped down on Thursday - the second resignation from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's newly formed cabinet in less than a week - after a media report that his office gave out gifts such as potatoes and corn to constituents.

Japan's justice minister stepped down on Thursday - the second resignation from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's newly formed cabinet in less than a week - after a media report that his office gave out gifts such as potatoes and corn to constituents. Justice Minister Katsuyuki Kawai's abrupt resignation came six days after that of former trade and industry minister, Isshu Sugawara, who had been accused of election law violations by allegedly giving gifts of melons and crabs to voters in his Tokyo constituency. Both men were first-time cabinet ministers, but while their resignations may be an embarrassment to Abe just weeks before he becomes Japan's longest-serving prime minister, they are unlikely to cause lasting damage due a lack of strong rivals and a weak opposition, analysts said. The report in weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun said that in addition to Kawai distributing produce to supporters - including mangoes, usually pricey in Japan - his wife, Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Anri Kawai, had paid campaign staffers more than amounts permitted by law. Kawai said neither he nor his wive knew anything about the reported allegations and denied breaking any laws, but added that he decided to resign promptly in order to avoid harming the justice system through a loss of public trust. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Abe apologised for the second time in a week, saying he bore responsibility for appointing the two in a cabinet reshuffle last month. "As the person who appointed him, I bear responsibility for this, for which I apologise to the nation," Abe told reporters shortly after accepting Kawai's resignation. "I will have to accept the harsh criticism of this situation and work even harder than ever. Masako Mori, a former minister in charge of gender equality and measures to combat the declining birthrate, will replace Kawai. Japan's opposition called the situation "a state of emergency" and said they would pursue the resignations in parliament. "Resigning automatically because of a weekly magazine report on a matter that is strongly suspicious of illegality is, in a sense, tantamount to admitting it," said Tetsuro Fukuyama, secretary general of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan. "This should have been a matter worth a general resignation of the cabinet members." But with the opposition in disarray and lacking strength, Abe is likely to survive unscathed as he has done before, analysts said. In 2014, two ministers quit within hours of each other to quell brewing political funds scandals without damage to Abe. "He's a Teflon PM who faces weak rivals and has weathered far worse," said Jeff Kingston, director of Asian Studies at Temple University's Japan campus.

Second minister in a week resigns from Japan cabinet

The&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;of&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;held&nbsp;fire&nbsp;on Thursday but suggested it could&nbsp;cut&nbsp;rates in the&nbsp;future, reflecting its fears that global risks could weigh on the country's fragile recovery.

The announcement came just hours after the US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-again-attacks-federal-reserve-says-central-bank-derelict-in-its-duties-258005">Federal Reserve</a>&nbsp;cut&nbsp;its benchmark interest&nbsp;rate&nbsp;for the third straight time as it gauges economic risks.

In its so-called "forward guidance"&nbsp;a signal the central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;gives to the market on its&nbsp;future&nbsp;policy decisions&nbsp;the BoJ said it expects rates "to remain at their present or lower levels."

Previously it had not made reference to the possibility of lower levels, saying instead it expected to keep "current ultra-low rates for an extended period of time, at least until the spring of 2020".

Thursday's announcement dropped the reference to that timeframe, hinting a change could come sooner.

The Japanese central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;warned that a pick-up in the global economy is likely to be delayed "mainly due to the intensified <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-wants-china-trade-deal-in-same-time-frame-despite-apec-summit-cancellation-258895">US-China trade friction</a> as well as slowdowns" in emerging economies including China.

"Japan's economy is expected to grow temporarily at a somewhat slower pace than its potential" reflecting weak exports and the sales tax hike that came into effect on October 1, it said.

The&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;also revised down its inflation and growth forecasts for the world's third-largest economy.

The central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;said it expected prices to rise 0.7 per cent in the year to March 2020, down from a previous forecast of 1.0 per cent, and well short of its years-long target of two per cent.

It also revised down its forecast for the following year to 1.1 per cent from 1.3 per cent and downgraded its projection for the year to March 2022 from 1.6 per cent to 1.5 per cent.

The BoJ has consistently fallen short of hitting the two per cent target it considers key to turbocharging the stuttering economy, despite a barrage of stimulus and monetary easing packages.&nbsp;

Bank&nbsp;policymakers have argued that prolonged periods of low growth and inflation have created a "deflation mindset" that continues to weigh on the national economy.

In a statement, it said there had been "no further increase in the possibility that the momentum towards achieving the price stability would be lost".

But it warned at the same time that "it was necessary to continue to pay close attention to the possibility".

The central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;also slightly lowered its economic growth forecast, citing "the delay in the timing of a pick-up in the growth pace of overseas economies".

It&nbsp;now&nbsp;projects&nbsp;Japan's economy will grow 0.6 per cent in the year to March, 0.7 per cent for the following year and 1.0 per cent for the year to March 22.

&nbsp;

The Bank of Japan held fire on Thursday but suggested it could cut rates in the future, reflecting its fears that global risks could weigh on the country's fragile recovery.

The Bank of Japan held fire on Thursday but suggested it could cut rates in the future, reflecting its fears that global risks could weigh on the country's fragile recovery. The announcement came just hours after the US Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate for the third straight time as it gauges economic risks. In its so-called "forward guidance" a signal the central bank gives to the market on its future policy decisions the BoJ said it expects rates "to remain at their present or lower levels." Previously it had not made reference to the possibility of lower levels, saying instead it expected to keep "current ultra-low rates for an extended period of time, at least until the spring of 2020". Thursday's announcement dropped the reference to that timeframe, hinting a change could come sooner. The Japanese central bank warned that a pick-up in the global economy is likely to be delayed "mainly due to the intensified US-China trade friction as well as slowdowns" in emerging economies including China. "Japan's economy is expected to grow temporarily at a somewhat slower pace than its potential" reflecting weak exports and the sales tax hike that came into effect on October 1, it said. The Bank also revised down its inflation and growth forecasts for the world's third-largest economy. The central bank said it expected prices to rise 0.7 per cent in the year to March 2020, down from a previous forecast of 1.0 per cent, and well short of its years-long target of two per cent. It also revised down its forecast for the following year to 1.1 per cent from 1.3 per cent and downgraded its projection for the year to March 2022 from 1.6 per cent to 1.5 per cent. The BoJ has consistently fallen short of hitting the two per cent target it considers key to turbocharging the stuttering economy, despite a barrage of stimulus and monetary easing packages. Bank policymakers have argued that prolonged periods of low growth and inflation have created a "deflation mindset" that continues to weigh on the national economy. In a statement, it said there had been "no further increase in the possibility that the momentum towards achieving the price stability would be lost". But it warned at the same time that "it was necessary to continue to pay close attention to the possibility". The central bank also slightly lowered its economic growth forecast, citing "the delay in the timing of a pick-up in the growth pace of overseas economies". It now projects Japan's economy will grow 0.6 per cent in the year to March, 0.7 per cent for the following year and 1.0 per cent for the year to March 22.

Bank of Japan suggests future rate cut, but holds fire for now

A fire has spread among structures at Shuri Castle on Japan's southern island of Okinawa, nearly destroying the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historic UNESCO heritage Japanese castle on fire

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton.

Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am&nbsp;(1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours.

"The main hall has burned down and the castle's dragon monuments have been blackened," Japanese media quoted Mikiko Shiroma, mayor of Naha city where the castle is located, as saying.

"This is truly regrettable."

The wooden castle is painted bright red and enclosed by curved stone walls. It sits on a hill overlooking Naha.

The fire engulfed the popular tourist attraction in the middle of its annual mid-autumn festival. The castle was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

The city's fire department said that while the castle had exterior sprinkler systems, its halls were not so equipped as this was not required under local fire codes.

Shuri Castle has been destroyed by fire several times, most recently in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

After World War 2, it served as a university campus until the mid-1970s. Following a reconstruction, it re-opened as a national park in 1992 and was designated a World Heritage site in 2000.

In addition to the main hall, the north and south halls have been destroyed, NHK said.

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton. Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am (1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours.

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton. Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am (1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours. "The main hall has burned down and the castle's dragon monuments have been blackened," Japanese media quoted Mikiko Shiroma, mayor of Naha city where the castle is located, as saying. "This is truly regrettable." The wooden castle is painted bright red and enclosed by curved stone walls. It sits on a hill overlooking Naha. The fire engulfed the popular tourist attraction in the middle of its annual mid-autumn festival. The castle was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route. The city's fire department said that while the castle had exterior sprinkler systems, its halls were not so equipped as this was not required under local fire codes. Shuri Castle has been destroyed by fire several times, most recently in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. After World War 2, it served as a university campus until the mid-1970s. Following a reconstruction, it re-opened as a national park in 1992 and was designated a World Heritage site in 2000. In addition to the main hall, the north and south halls have been destroyed, NHK said.

Fire engulfs Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle

Rescuers worked by hand to clear debris from a landslide triggered by heavy rains in central Japan on Saturday, as the toll from the storms rose to 10 dead with a further three people reportedly missing.

Aerial footage showed emergency workers removing wreckage from two houses that were swept away in Chiba, southeast of Tokyo, just two weeks after a deadly typhoon barrelled through the area.

Nine people were killed by landslides and floods in the region, including two elderly men found dead in submerged cars, officials and news reports said.

A woman in her 40s was found dead near the coast in eastern Fukushima, according to a fire department official.

Police divers were deployed to search for those unaccounted for, with public broadcaster NHK putting the number of missing at three.

Thousands of people were forced to spend the night in Narita airport after train services were suspended, it added.

"Water was flowing in my garden like a river," a 75-year-old man told NHK. "Rain was heavier than during the typhoon."

Two weeks ago, Typhoon Hagibis slammed into the east coast of Japan, killing more than 80 people. Many river banks and levees that were breached during Hagibis have yet to be repaired.

The rescue effort received some relief when the Japan Meteorological Agency downgraded warnings of landslides and floods as rains eased on Saturday morning in many regions.

Non-mandatory evacuation orders were also lifted in many areas, although 1,800 people were still in shelters, NHK reported.

 
&nbsp;

Rescuers worked by hand to clear debris from a landslide triggered by heavy rains in central Japan on Saturday, as the toll from the storms rose to 10 dead with a further three people reportedly missing.

Rescuers worked by hand to clear debris from a landslide triggered by heavy rains in central Japan on Saturday, as the toll from the storms rose to 10 dead with a further three people reportedly missing. Aerial footage showed emergency workers removing wreckage from two houses that were swept away in Chiba, southeast of Tokyo, just two weeks after a deadly typhoon barrelled through the area. Nine people were killed by landslides and floods in the region, including two elderly men found dead in submerged cars, officials and news reports said. A woman in her 40s was found dead near the coast in eastern Fukushima, according to a fire department official. Police divers were deployed to search for those unaccounted for, with public broadcaster NHK putting the number of missing at three. Thousands of people were forced to spend the night in Narita airport after train services were suspended, it added. "Water was flowing in my garden like a river," a 75-year-old man told NHK. "Rain was heavier than during the typhoon." Two weeks ago, Typhoon Hagibis slammed into the east coast of Japan, killing more than 80 people. Many river banks and levees that were breached during Hagibis have yet to be repaired. The rescue effort received some relief when the Japan Meteorological Agency downgraded warnings of landslides and floods as rains eased on Saturday morning in many regions. Non-mandatory evacuation orders were also lifted in many areas, although 1,800 people were still in shelters, NHK reported.

Rescuers hunt for missing as landslides, floods kill 10 in Japan

Rescuers worked by hand to clear debris from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-eight-as-heavy-rains-hit-typhoon-battered-eastern-japan-258223">landslide triggered by heavy rains</a> in central Japan on Saturday, as the toll from the storms rose to 10 dead with a further three people reportedly missing.

Aerial footage showed emergency workers removing wreckage from two houses that were swept away in Chiba, southeast of Tokyo, just two weeks after a deadly typhoon barrelled through the area.

Nine people were killed by landslides and floods in the region, including two elderly men found dead in submerged cars, officials and news reports said.

A woman in her 40s was found dead near the coast in eastern Fukushima, according to a fire department official.

Police divers were deployed to search for those unaccounted for, with public broadcaster NHK putting the number of missing at three.

Thousands of people were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-hit-areas-in-japan-brace-for-heavy-rains-60000-advised-to-evacuate-258034">forced to spend the night in Narita airport</a> after train services were suspended, it added.

"Water was flowing in my garden like a river," a 75-year-old man told NHK. "Rain was heavier than during the typhoon."

Two weeks ago, Typhoon Hagibis slammed into the east coast of Japan, killing more than 80 people. Many river banks and levees that were breached during Hagibis have yet to be repaired.

The rescue effort received some relief when the Japan Meteorological Agency downgraded warnings of landslides and floods as rains eased on Saturday morning in many regions.

Non-mandatory evacuation orders were also lifted in many areas, although 1,800 people were still in shelters, NHK reported.

Rescuers hunt for missing people as landslides, floods kill ten in Japan

The death toll from torrential rains that caused flooding and mudslides in eastern Japan rose to eight on Saturday, with a further four missing, public broadcaster NHK reported, just two weeks after the region was hit hard by a powerful typhoon.

Landslides ripped through waterlogged areas in Chiba and Fukushima prefectures, in eastern and northeastern Japan, which were inundated by their third rainstorms in six weeks. In some places, a month's worth of rain unleashed by a low-pressure system fell in half a day.

Evacuation orders and advisories were issued along much of the northern corridor already hit by two typhoons since last month. The city of Ushiku in Chiba received 283.5 mm (11 inches) of rain over 12 hours.

Authorities warned of the chance of further landslides and floods, especially in areas hit by levee breaks that have yet to be repaired after Typhoon Hagibis lashed central and eastern Japan with heavy rains and high winds.

That typhoon killed at least 88 people, with seven others still missing and more than 300 injured, said NHK.

The death toll from torrential rains that caused flooding and mudslides in eastern Japan rose to eight on Saturday, with a further four missing, public broadcaster NHK reported, just two weeks after the region was hit hard by a powerful typhoon.

The death toll from torrential rains that caused flooding and mudslides in eastern Japan rose to eight on Saturday, with a further four missing, public broadcaster NHK reported, just two weeks after the region was hit hard by a powerful typhoon. Landslides ripped through waterlogged areas in Chiba and Fukushima prefectures, in eastern and northeastern Japan, which were inundated by their third rainstorms in six weeks. In some places, a month's worth of rain unleashed by a low-pressure system fell in half a day. Evacuation orders and advisories were issued along much of the northern corridor already hit by two typhoons since last month. The city of Ushiku in Chiba received 283.5 mm (11 inches) of rain over 12 hours. Authorities warned of the chance of further landslides and floods, especially in areas hit by levee breaks that have yet to be repaired after Typhoon Hagibis lashed central and eastern Japan with heavy rains and high winds. That typhoon killed at least 88 people, with seven others still missing and more than 300 injured, said NHK.

Death toll rises to eight as heavy rains hit typhoon-battered eastern Japan

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Friday rounded off a fruitful friendly visit to Japan, with the two neighbours pledging continued efforts to foster a relationship that fits the needs of the new era.

During the five-day visit as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-orienteering-team-disqualified-from-world-military-games-258128">Chinese President Xi Jinping's</a> special envoy, Wang attended the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito and met respectively with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Taro Aso.

On Tuesday, when Emperor Naruhito officially proclaimed his enthronement, Wang conveyed to him and Empress Masako the sincere congratulations of Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, and asked the emperor and empress to pass on Xi and Peng's cordial greetings to Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko.

Emperor Naruhito, for his part, asked Wang to communicate to the Chinese president and his wife the genuine gratitude and best wishes of the imperial couple as well as of the emperor emeritus and empress emerita.

In his meeting with Abe, Wang conveyed to him the cordial greetings of Xi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and expressed sympathies over the serious casualties and losses caused by Typhoon Hagibis, an unusually monstrous tropical cyclone that recently wreaked havoc in Japan.

The vice president recalled that Xi and Abe met in the Japanese city of Osaka in June and reached a series of important consensus on pushing for a China-Japan relationship that fits the needs of the new era, creating new opportunities for the development of bilateral ties.

The two sides, he added, should abide by the principles set forth in the four political documents between China and Japan, properly address such issues as history and Taiwan, and ensure that their relations will move forward along the right track of peace, friendship and cooperation.

Wang said China stands ready to work with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescuers-hunt-for-missing-as-landslides-floods-kill-ten-in-japan-258253">Japan</a> to continuously cement political mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation, expand people-to-people exchanges and build a constructive security relationship.

He also called on the two countries to join hands to act as defenders of multilateralism, promoters of open cooperation, and practitioners of cross-civilization dialogue, and make positive contributions to advancing global and regional peace, stability and development.

Noting that Xi has accepted in principle Abe's invitation for a state visit to Japan next spring, Wang said he hopes that the two sides will maintain close contact and coordination, so as to create a favourable environment and a conducive atmosphere and ensure that the visit will materialize smoothly and achieve complete success.

The Japanese prime minister once again extended congratulations on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and thanked Xi for sending Wang as his special envoy to attend Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony and pay a friendly visit to Japan.

Japan and China have a long history of exchanges and boast a solid traditional friendship, Abe said, adding that today the two countries enjoy steadily deepening cooperation on economy and trade, deal with international affairs side by side, and shoulder a great responsibility for peace and prosperity in Asia as well as the whole world.

As both countries are entering a new era, and the Osaka meeting has facilitated a full return of Japan-China relations to normal development, the two sides have huge potential in future cooperation, added the Japanese prime minister.

The Japanese side, he said, earnestly looks forward to Xi's state visit to Japan in the coming spring, and is willing to properly handle the Taiwan question and other sensitive issues.

He added that his country stands ready to make concerted efforts with China to enhance top-level planning for bilateral relations, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, and build a Japan-China relationship that is beautiful, harmonious, future-oriented and vigorous.

In his meeting with Aso, Wang said China and Japan, as important countries in Asia and major economies in the world, should more consciously perceive and handle their relationship against the backdrop of the world and the times, and manage and plan it from long-term strategic perspectives.

In the new era, the two countries have broader common interests and more common concerns, and the strategic value of their relationship is growing ever more prominent, noted the Chinese vice president.

China, Wang said, stands ready to work with Japan to effectively seize the opportunities and, with their eyes set on the future and the big picture, comprehensively strengthen coordination and communication in various areas including financial cooperation, so as to lift bilateral ties to a higher level.

Aso said that boosting candid, open and constructive exchanges between the two countries is conducive to enhancing bilateral relations and that Japan supports the open market and free trade, and is willing to step up communication and cooperation with China in the financial realm.

The Japanese side, added the deputy prime minister, is actively making preparations in order to foster a conducive atmosphere for Xi's planned visit next year.

Also during his stay in Japan, Wang held separate meetings with Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, Secretary-General Toshihiro Nikai of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, and Governor Naomichi Suzuki of the Hokkaido Prefecture.

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Friday rounded off a fruitful friendly visit to Japan, with the two neighbours pledging continued efforts to foster a relationship that fits the needs of the new era.

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Friday rounded off a fruitful friendly visit to Japan, with the two neighbours pledging continued efforts to foster a relationship that fits the needs of the new era. During the five-day visit as Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy, Wang attended the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito and met respectively with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Taro Aso. On Tuesday, when Emperor Naruhito officially proclaimed his enthronement, Wang conveyed to him and Empress Masako the sincere congratulations of Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, and asked the emperor and empress to pass on Xi and Peng's cordial greetings to Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko. Emperor Naruhito, for his part, asked Wang to communicate to the Chinese president and his wife the genuine gratitude and best wishes of the imperial couple as well as of the emperor emeritus and empress emerita. In his meeting with Abe, Wang conveyed to him the cordial greetings of Xi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and expressed sympathies over the serious casualties and losses caused by Typhoon Hagibis, an unusually monstrous tropical cyclone that recently wreaked havoc in Japan. The vice president recalled that Xi and Abe met in the Japanese city of Osaka in June and reached a series of important consensus on pushing for a China-Japan relationship that fits the needs of the new era, creating new opportunities for the development of bilateral ties. The two sides, he added, should abide by the principles set forth in the four political documents between China and Japan, properly address such issues as history and Taiwan, and ensure that their relations will move forward along the right track of peace, friendship and cooperation. Wang said China stands ready to work with Japan to continuously cement political mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation, expand people-to-people exchanges and build a constructive security relationship. He also called on the two countries to join hands to act as defenders of multilateralism, promoters of open cooperation, and practitioners of cross-civilization dialogue, and make positive contributions to advancing global and regional peace, stability and development. Noting that Xi has accepted in principle Abe's invitation for a state visit to Japan next spring, Wang said he hopes that the two sides will maintain close contact and coordination, so as to create a favourable environment and a conducive atmosphere and ensure that the visit will materialize smoothly and achieve complete success. The Japanese prime minister once again extended congratulations on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and thanked Xi for sending Wang as his special envoy to attend Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony and pay a friendly visit to Japan. Japan and China have a long history of exchanges and boast a solid traditional friendship, Abe said, adding that today the two countries enjoy steadily deepening cooperation on economy and trade, deal with international affairs side by side, and shoulder a great responsibility for peace and prosperity in Asia as well as the whole world. As both countries are entering a new era, and the Osaka meeting has facilitated a full return of Japan-China relations to normal development, the two sides have huge potential in future cooperation, added the Japanese prime minister. The Japanese side, he said, earnestly looks forward to Xi's state visit to Japan in the coming spring, and is willing to properly handle the Taiwan question and other sensitive issues. He added that his country stands ready to make concerted efforts with China to enhance top-level planning for bilateral relations, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, and build a Japan-China relationship that is beautiful, harmonious, future-oriented and vigorous. In his meeting with Aso, Wang said China and Japan, as important countries in Asia and major economies in the world, should more consciously perceive and handle their relationship against the backdrop of the world and the times, and manage and plan it from long-term strategic perspectives. In the new era, the two countries have broader common interests and more common concerns, and the strategic value of their relationship is growing ever more prominent, noted the Chinese vice president. China, Wang said, stands ready to work with Japan to effectively seize the opportunities and, with their eyes set on the future and the big picture, comprehensively strengthen coordination and communication in various areas including financial cooperation, so as to lift bilateral ties to a higher level. Aso said that boosting candid, open and constructive exchanges between the two countries is conducive to enhancing bilateral relations and that Japan supports the open market and free trade, and is willing to step up communication and cooperation with China in the financial realm. The Japanese side, added the deputy prime minister, is actively making preparations in order to foster a conducive atmosphere for Xi's planned visit next year. Also during his stay in Japan, Wang held separate meetings with Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, Secretary-General Toshihiro Nikai of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, and Governor Naomichi Suzuki of the Hokkaido Prefecture.

Chinese vice president visits Japan to promote ties

France lock Sebastien Vahaamahina has been suspended for six weeks for his red card in their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Wales last week, World Rugby said on Thursday.

France were leading 19-10 in Oita, Japan when Vahaamahina elbowed Wales forward Aaron Wainwright in the face and was sent off. The French were reduced to 14 men and went on to lose the match 20-19.

Vahaamahina admitted to the act of foul play, accepting that the offence warranted a red card.

"Vahaamahina will miss his next six matches with his club Clermont Auvergne," World Rugby said in a statement. "Therefore the player is free to play again on Dec. 16, 2019."

Although the entry point for punishment was 10 weeks, the committee reduced it by four weeks after Vahaamahina acknowledged his conduct and apologised to Wainwright.

The 28-year-old Vahaamahina announced his international retirement after France were knocked out of the World Cup.

France lock Sebastien Vahaamahina has been suspended for six weeks for his red card in their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Wales last week, World Rugby said on Thursday.

France lock Sebastien Vahaamahina has been suspended for six weeks for his red card in their World Cup quarter-final defeat by Wales last week, World Rugby said on Thursday. France were leading 19-10 in Oita, Japan when Vahaamahina elbowed Wales forward Aaron Wainwright in the face and was sent off. The French were reduced to 14 men and went on to lose the match 20-19. Vahaamahina admitted to the act of foul play, accepting that the offence warranted a red card. "Vahaamahina will miss his next six matches with his club Clermont Auvergne," World Rugby said in a statement. "Therefore the player is free to play again on Dec. 16, 2019." Although the entry point for punishment was 10 weeks, the committee reduced it by four weeks after Vahaamahina acknowledged his conduct and apologised to Wainwright. The 28-year-old Vahaamahina announced his international retirement after France were knocked out of the World Cup.

France's Vahaamahina handed six-week ban for Rugby World Cup red card

The second round of the Zozo Championship in Japan was washed out on Friday because of persistent rain, tournament organisers announced.

The round is now scheduled to start on Saturday at 6.30 a.m. local time, weather permitting.

Tiger Woods posted his best score in over a year with a six-under-par 64 in Thursday's opening round and shares the lead with fellow American Gary Woodland to stand one shot in front of home favourite Hideki Matsuyama.

Officials hope to squeeze in as much play as possible on Saturday, including at least half of the third round.

All being well, the round will resume early on Sunday, and finish in time for the final round to begin mid-morning.

Officials still hope for a Sunday afternoon finish, although that will only be possible if there are no further delays. That remained an open question given the rain that continued to fall throughout Friday morning.

"The golf course has already reached the point of saturation and it's become unplayable," said rules official Gary Young.

"With more rain in the forecast and three to five inches of rain for the day (75-125mm), we thought the right decision was to call play for the day."

Young said play would be extended into Monday if that became necessary to complete 72 holes.

The Zozo Championship is the first official-money PGA Tour event in Japan.

Thursday's first-round was played in front of sellout galleries starved of a chance to see Woods and other top players on a regular basis.

The second round of the Zozo Championship in Japan was washed out on Friday because of persistent rain, tournament organisers announced. The round is now scheduled to start on Saturday at 6.

The second round of the Zozo Championship in Japan was washed out on Friday because of persistent rain, tournament organisers announced. The round is now scheduled to start on Saturday at 6.30 a.m. local time, weather permitting. Tiger Woods posted his best score in over a year with a six-under-par 64 in Thursday's opening round and shares the lead with fellow American Gary Woodland to stand one shot in front of home favourite Hideki Matsuyama. Officials hope to squeeze in as much play as possible on Saturday, including at least half of the third round. All being well, the round will resume early on Sunday, and finish in time for the final round to begin mid-morning. Officials still hope for a Sunday afternoon finish, although that will only be possible if there are no further delays. That remained an open question given the rain that continued to fall throughout Friday morning. "The golf course has already reached the point of saturation and it's become unplayable," said rules official Gary Young. "With more rain in the forecast and three to five inches of rain for the day (75-125mm), we thought the right decision was to call play for the day." Young said play would be extended into Monday if that became necessary to complete 72 holes. The Zozo Championship is the first official-money PGA Tour event in Japan. Thursday's first-round was played in front of sellout galleries starved of a chance to see Woods and other top players on a regular basis.

Golf: Zozo Championship second round washed out on Friday

Japan's new trade minister has submitted his resignation after being accused of violating election law by offering voters money and gifts, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Friday.

Isshu Sugawara had been in the hot seat after a magazine reported he was suspected of paying 20,000 yen ($185) to a bereaved family in his constituency.

He was also reported to have given gifts to other voters, including pricey melons and even crabs, Kyodo news agency said.

The sums involved, while small, would constitute a violation of Japan's public office election law.

Abe said Sugawara submitted his resignation after a cabinet meeting and that he had accepted it.

"I bear responsibility in having appointed him. I deeply apologise to the Japanese people," Abe said.

Sugawara will be replaced by Hiroshi Kajimaya, formerly a minister in charge of revitalising communities in the countryside, Abe said.

Sugawara told Abe and later told reporters "it is not my intention that parliamentary debate stall (because of the scandal)."

He was appointed in a recent cabinet reshuffle but did not take over the key portfolio of handling trade negotiations with the United States.

That task remains the purview of former trade minister Toshimitsu Motegi, who now serves as foreign minister.

Abe's cabinet has maintained public approval ratings of around 40-50 per cent in recent years, despite several political scandals, with experts pointing to the continued weakness of the opposition as a key factor.

Japan's new trade minister has submitted his resignation after being accused of violating election law by offering voters money and gifts, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Friday.

Japan's new trade minister has submitted his resignation after being accused of violating election law by offering voters money and gifts, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Friday. Isshu Sugawara had been in the hot seat after a magazine reported he was suspected of paying 20,000 yen ($185) to a bereaved family in his constituency. He was also reported to have given gifts to other voters, including pricey melons and even crabs, Kyodo news agency said. The sums involved, while small, would constitute a violation of Japan's public office election law. Abe said Sugawara submitted his resignation after a cabinet meeting and that he had accepted it. "I bear responsibility in having appointed him. I deeply apologise to the Japanese people," Abe said. Sugawara will be replaced by Hiroshi Kajimaya, formerly a minister in charge of revitalising communities in the countryside, Abe said. Sugawara told Abe and later told reporters "it is not my intention that parliamentary debate stall (because of the scandal)." He was appointed in a recent cabinet reshuffle but did not take over the key portfolio of handling trade negotiations with the United States. That task remains the purview of former trade minister Toshimitsu Motegi, who now serves as foreign minister. Abe's cabinet has maintained public approval ratings of around 40-50 per cent in recent years, despite several political scandals, with experts pointing to the continued weakness of the opposition as a key factor.

Japan trade minister resigns over donation scandal

A wide swath of eastern Japan hit by flooding and landslides from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-new-typhoons-to-hit-japan-in-the-aftermath-of-hagibis-meteorological-agency-257154">Typhoon Hagibis</a> two weeks ago braced for more heavy rains on Friday, with evacuation advisories issued for tens of thousands of people in areas surrounding Tokyo.

At least 82 people were killed when Hagibis lashed central and eastern Japan with heavy rains and high winds. Nearly a dozen are still missing and more than 300 were injured.

Authorities warned of the chance of further landslides and flooding, especially in areas hit by levee breaks that have yet to be repaired even provisionally.

An evacuation advisory was issued for 50,000 people in Sagamihara, a city southwest of Tokyo that was hit hard by flooding after the typhoon. Six Sagamihara residents were killed in that storm, including a family swept away in their car, and two remain missing.

Evacuation advisories were also issued for some 10,000 in Chiba prefecture, just east of Tokyo, which was battered by heavy winds from Typhoon Faxai in September that left some areas without power for weeks before being hit by rains from Hagibis.

The rain was expected to pound the Tokyo area until evening and then move north. Total rainfall in the area around Tokyo was likely to range from 200 to 300 mm (8-12 inches) by evening, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

Tropical storm Bualoi, which battered the Ogasawara islands south of the main Japanese archipelago on Thursday while still at typhoon strength, was headed out into the Pacific and expected to weaken to a tropical depression later on Friday.

A wide swath of eastern Japan hit by flooding and landslides from Typhoon Hagibis two weeks ago braced for more heavy rains on Friday, with evacuation advisories issued for tens of thousands of people in areas surrounding Tokyo.

A wide swath of eastern Japan hit by flooding and landslides from Typhoon Hagibis two weeks ago braced for more heavy rains on Friday, with evacuation advisories issued for tens of thousands of people in areas surrounding Tokyo. At least 82 people were killed when Hagibis lashed central and eastern Japan with heavy rains and high winds. Nearly a dozen are still missing and more than 300 were injured. Authorities warned of the chance of further landslides and flooding, especially in areas hit by levee breaks that have yet to be repaired even provisionally. An evacuation advisory was issued for 50,000 people in Sagamihara, a city southwest of Tokyo that was hit hard by flooding after the typhoon. Six Sagamihara residents were killed in that storm, including a family swept away in their car, and two remain missing. Evacuation advisories were also issued for some 10,000 in Chiba prefecture, just east of Tokyo, which was battered by heavy winds from Typhoon Faxai in September that left some areas without power for weeks before being hit by rains from Hagibis. The rain was expected to pound the Tokyo area until evening and then move north. Total rainfall in the area around Tokyo was likely to range from 200 to 300 mm (8-12 inches) by evening, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. Tropical storm Bualoi, which battered the Ogasawara islands south of the main Japanese archipelago on Thursday while still at typhoon strength, was headed out into the Pacific and expected to weaken to a tropical depression later on Friday.

Storm-hit areas in Japan brace for heavy rains, 60,000 advised to evacuate

Japan trade minister resigns over vote-buying scandal. Minister has also violated Japanese Election laws

WION Wallet: Japan trade minister resigns

Tokyo Motor Show 2019: The show has a futuristic tech on display. Nissan unveils Ariya concept crossover EV

Tokyo Motor Show 2019: Show has futuristic tech on display

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct".

The claims, made in two filings to the Tokyo District Court, allege prosecutors colluded with Nissan and effectively subcontracted out their investigation to employees of the automaker who were trying to oust Ghosn.

"The court filings demonstrate that the prosecutors' case, which was politically motivated and poisoned from the start, is fundamentally flawed and contradicted by the evidentiary record," Ghosn's lawyers said in a statement.

Ghosn is out on bail in Tokyo, awaiting trial on four charges of financial misconduct. He denies any wrongdoing and laid out his defence again Thursday.

But he and his lawyers argue the entire case against him is "fundamentally flawed".

The filings allege the creation of a "secret task force" at Nissan created to "drum up allegations of wrongdoing by Mr Ghosn as a pretext to remove him".

They formalise claims Ghosn has made previously -- that the allegations against him stem from resentment within Nissan over his plans to more closely integrate the firm with its alliance partner, French automaker Renault.

Along with Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan and Renault form a leading auto alliance, but relations inside the partnership have been tense at times.

Ghosn's legal team claim the opposition to further integration of the car firms drew in even government officials from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

"The prosecution against him resulted from unlawful collusion between the prosecutors, government officials at METI and executives at Nissan," Ghosn's legal team said in a statement.

"Their goal: to oust Mr Ghosn in order to prevent him from further integrating Nissan and Renault, which threatened the autonomy of one of Japan's industry flagships."

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct".

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn on Thursday urged a Tokyo court to dismiss the case against him, accusing Japanese prosecutors of a "pervasive pattern of illegal misconduct". The claims, made in two filings to the Tokyo District Court, allege prosecutors colluded with Nissan and effectively subcontracted out their investigation to employees of the automaker who were trying to oust Ghosn. "The court filings demonstrate that the prosecutors' case, which was politically motivated and poisoned from the start, is fundamentally flawed and contradicted by the evidentiary record," Ghosn's lawyers said in a statement. Ghosn is out on bail in Tokyo, awaiting trial on four charges of financial misconduct. He denies any wrongdoing and laid out his defence again Thursday. But he and his lawyers argue the entire case against him is "fundamentally flawed". The filings allege the creation of a "secret task force" at Nissan created to "drum up allegations of wrongdoing by Mr Ghosn as a pretext to remove him". They formalise claims Ghosn has made previously -- that the allegations against him stem from resentment within Nissan over his plans to more closely integrate the firm with its alliance partner, French automaker Renault. Along with Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan and Renault form a leading auto alliance, but relations inside the partnership have been tense at times. Ghosn's legal team claim the opposition to further integration of the car firms drew in even government officials from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). "The prosecution against him resulted from unlawful collusion between the prosecutors, government officials at METI and executives at Nissan," Ghosn's legal team said in a statement. "Their goal: to oust Mr Ghosn in order to prevent him from further integrating Nissan and Renault, which threatened the autonomy of one of Japan's industry flagships."

Ghosn wants case dismissed over 'prosecutor misconduct'

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade.

But there was a scant sign of real progress and Abe reiterated that&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;would need to keep its promises for ties between the two Asian allies of Washington to improve.

Relations between Tokyo and Seoul have deteriorated to their lowest in decades since&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's top court last October ordered some Japanese firms to compensate&nbsp;Koreans forced to work in their wartime mines and factories.

Japan, which says the matter was settled by a 1965 treaty, calls the decision a violation of international law, and the feud has spilt over into trade and security matters.

About 100 journalists were present at the start of talks in Tokyo, the highest-level meeting between the two sides since the row flared. The meeting began with a handshake but no smiles.

Abe urged Seoul to keep its promises - a reference to the 1965 treaty - in order to restore relations, according to the statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry.

"Our two nations are important neighbours for each other, and keeping in contact over North&nbsp;Korea, bilateral relations and our ties with the United States are quite important," Abe was quoted as telling Lee.

"Relations are currently in quite a severe state but should not be left that way. If&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;can keep bilateral promises, that could be a chance to return to a healthy relationship," Abe added.

The statement also quoted Lee as saying he shared the view that dialogue was important, while a parallel statement from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's foreign ministry said Lee agreed relations should not be left in their current difficult state.

Abe also repeated Tokyo's stance that the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean court ruling overturned the basis of two-way ties.

“Abe said the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean top court ruling is in clear violation of international law and ... fundamentally breaks down the legal framework for Japan-South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;relations," Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada told reporters.

In a sign that gaps remain wide, Lee told Abe: "South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has also respected and complied with the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations and Claims, and will continue to do so," according to Seoul's statement.

Lee, who was in Tokyo to attend Japanese Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony this week, delivered to Abe a personal letter from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean President Moon Jae-in in which Moon called for attempts to resolve the pending bilateral issues,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.

Moon and Abe have not held a summit in more than a year and the statements made no mention of any meeting planned between the two.

A Japanese government official questioned whether Thursday's meeting would lead to a breakthrough. "It depends on their (South&nbsp;Korea's) deeds, not words," the official told Reuters.

The animosity between Japan and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is linked to the history of Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the&nbsp;Korean peninsula, the mobilisation of forced labour at companies and women in wartime military brothels, and a row over the ownership of islets in the sea between the two nations.

Earlier this year, the dispute escalated when Japan tightened export controls on materials vital for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean chipmakers. It then dropped Seoul from a list of countries eligible for fast-track exports, steps angrily denounced by&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea.

The spat has prompted protests in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, where Japanese companies and products have been boycotted, and trade between the two countries has slowed sharply.

In August,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;announced it would scrap a military intelligence-sharing pact with Japan when it expires next month, just as the allies face rising tensions over North&nbsp;Korea's nuclear weapons programme and increased competition from China and Russia.

Further potential flashpoints loom.

Thousands of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean students and activists are expected to gather on Friday to celebrate "Dokdo Day". Dokdo is the&nbsp;Korean name for islets claimed by&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and by Japan, which calls them Takeshima.

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is also planning to order asset sales of the Japanese companies found liable for damages under last year's forced labour rulings as early as December, which could further sour bilateral relations, analysts said.

"Precautions must be taken to prevent that," said Yang Kee-ho, professor of Japanese Studies at Sungkonghoe University.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North Korea and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon agreed on Thursday on the importance of cooperating on North Korea and other issues, seeking to rebuild relations amid a bitter feud over history and trade. But there was a scant sign of real progress and Abe reiterated that South Korea would need to keep its promises for ties between the two Asian allies of Washington to improve. Relations between Tokyo and Seoul have deteriorated to their lowest in decades since South Korea's top court last October ordered some Japanese firms to compensate Koreans forced to work in their wartime mines and factories. Japan, which says the matter was settled by a 1965 treaty, calls the decision a violation of international law, and the feud has spilt over into trade and security matters. About 100 journalists were present at the start of talks in Tokyo, the highest-level meeting between the two sides since the row flared. The meeting began with a handshake but no smiles. Abe urged Seoul to keep its promises - a reference to the 1965 treaty - in order to restore relations, according to the statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry. "Our two nations are important neighbours for each other, and keeping in contact over North Korea, bilateral relations and our ties with the United States are quite important," Abe was quoted as telling Lee. "Relations are currently in quite a severe state but should not be left that way. If South Korea can keep bilateral promises, that could be a chance to return to a healthy relationship," Abe added. The statement also quoted Lee as saying he shared the view that dialogue was important, while a parallel statement from South Korea's foreign ministry said Lee agreed relations should not be left in their current difficult state. Abe also repeated Tokyo's stance that the South Korean court ruling overturned the basis of two-way ties. “Abe said the South Korean top court ruling is in clear violation of international law and ... fundamentally breaks down the legal framework for Japan-South Korea relations," Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada told reporters. In a sign that gaps remain wide, Lee told Abe: "South Korea has also respected and complied with the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations and Claims, and will continue to do so," according to Seoul's statement. Lee, who was in Tokyo to attend Japanese Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony this week, delivered to Abe a personal letter from South Korean President Moon Jae-in in which Moon called for attempts to resolve the pending bilateral issues, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. Moon and Abe have not held a summit in more than a year and the statements made no mention of any meeting planned between the two. A Japanese government official questioned whether Thursday's meeting would lead to a breakthrough. "It depends on their (South Korea's) deeds, not words," the official told Reuters. The animosity between Japan and South Korea is linked to the history of Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the Korean peninsula, the mobilisation of forced labour at companies and women in wartime military brothels, and a row over the ownership of islets in the sea between the two nations. Earlier this year, the dispute escalated when Japan tightened export controls on materials vital for South Korean chipmakers. It then dropped Seoul from a list of countries eligible for fast-track exports, steps angrily denounced by South Korea. The spat has prompted protests in South Korea, where Japanese companies and products have been boycotted, and trade between the two countries has slowed sharply. In August, South Korea announced it would scrap a military intelligence-sharing pact with Japan when it expires next month, just as the allies face rising tensions over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and increased competition from China and Russia. Further potential flashpoints loom. Thousands of South Korean students and activists are expected to gather on Friday to celebrate "Dokdo Day". Dokdo is the Korean name for islets claimed by South Korea and by Japan, which calls them Takeshima. South Korea is also planning to order asset sales of the Japanese companies found liable for damages under last year's forced labour rulings as early as December, which could further sour bilateral relations, analysts said. "Precautions must be taken to prevent that," said Yang Kee-ho, professor of Japanese Studies at Sungkonghoe University.

Japan's Shinzo Abe renews call on South Korea to keep promises to mend ties

Renault were&nbsp;stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer.

The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal.

Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal.

"Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said.

Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race.

The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations.

They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged.

The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations.

"The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said.

"The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added.

"Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes."

Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details.

The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth.

Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th.

Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids.

Renault were stripped of their nine points from the Japanese Grand Prix on Wednesday after Formula One's governing body ruled the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg had illegal driver aids. Australian Ricciardo and German Hulkenberg were classified sixth and 10th at the October 13 race in Suzuka but the Racing Point team protested against the brake bias system used by the French manufacturer. The governing FIA announced the outcome in a statement ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix and gave Renault until Thursday to appeal. Renault acknowledged the decision and did not say whether they would appeal. "Considering the subjectivity of the qualification of a system as a driver aid and the variability of the associated penalties in recent cases, Renault F1 Team will consider its next course of action within the timeframe laid out by the FIA," the team said. Renault's points haul in Japan had consolidated their fifth place in the constructors' standings, but their cars' steering wheels and electronic control units were impounded after the race. The FIA said the stewards concluded after a telephone hearing that the brake bias system "used innovative solutions to exploit certain ambiguities" and did not breach the technical regulations. They also found that the system was not pre-set or lap distance-dependent as alleged. The system, however, acted as a driver aid and that was not allowed under the sporting regulations. "The brake balance adjustment system in question acts as a driver aid, by saving the driver from having to make a number of adjustments during a lap," the statement said. "The stewards note that there is a clear distinction between this system and one which provides actual feedback control, which would be a substitute for driver skills or reflexes," it added. "Nevertheless, it is still an aid and, therefore, contravenes." Renault had argued in their defence that Racing Point could produce no conclusive video evidence and had based their protest on allegations by a former Renault employee who was unaware of all the details. The disqualification lifts Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to sixth with Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly and Racing Point's Sergio Perez now seventh and eighth. Racing Point's Lance Stroll is ninth and Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat 10th. Toro Rosso and Racing Point are also closer to Renault in the constructors' standings with four races to go.

Renault stripped of Japanese Grand Prix points

In Japan, more than 200 Foreign dignitaries arrive for Japanese Emperor Naruhito's enthronement ceremony. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind will also attend this ceremony.

Japan: Indian President Kovind to attend the enthronement of Japan's Emperor Naruhito

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-emperor-to-complete-enthronement-in-ritual-bound-ceremony-257392">Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed his ascendancy to the throne</a> on Tuesday in a centuries-old ceremony attended by dignitaries from more than 180 countries, pledging to fulfil his duty as a symbol of the state.

Naruhito became emperor in May in a brief, tradition-filled ceremony but Tuesday's "Sokui no Rei" was a more elaborate ritual at the royal palace in which he officially announced his change in status to the world.

"I swear that I will act according to the constitution and fulfil my responsibility as the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people," the 59-year-old declared, his voice slightly hoarse, in front of about 2,000 participants, including Britain's Prince Charles.

"I sincerely hope that Japan will develop further and contribute to the friendship and peace of the international community, and to the welfare and prosperity of human beings through the people's wisdom and ceaseless efforts."

The first Japanese emperor born after World War Two, Naruhito acceded to the throne when his father, Akihito, became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in two centuries after worrying that advancing age might make it hard to perform official duties.

"As he is young and energetic with outstanding leadership, I hope he'll support the people of Japan, which has faced continuous disasters and typhoons," said Tomoko Shirakawa, 51, who was among small groups of umbrella-clutching supporters outside the palace.

The long-planned celebrations were tempered by Typhoon Hagibis, which killed at least 80 people when it tore through Japan ten&nbsp;days ago, and pouring rain on Tuesday.

A public parade was postponed until next month to allow the government to devote its attention to the typhoon clean-up, while Tuesday's inclement weather forced the palace to scale back the number of courtiers in ancient robes taking part in the courtyard ceremony although the skies cleared as it began.

Naruhito began the day's ceremonies by reporting his enthronement to his imperial ancestors at one of three shrines on the palace grounds, dressed in a black headdress and pure white robes with a long train borne by an attendant.

He was followed later by Empress Masako, 55, his Harvard-educated wife, dressed in 12-layered white robes and attended by two women in violet robes to arrange her train.

Tradition-Bound ceremony

For the main ceremony in the Matsu-no-Ma, or Hall of Pine, the most prestigious room in the palace, Naruhito wore a traditional burnt-orange robe and headdress, as his father did nearly three decades ago.

He declared his enthronement from the "Takamikura", a 6.5-metre (21 feet) high pavilion that weighs about 8 tonnes, with an ancient sword and a jewel, two of the so-called Three Sacred Treasures, placed beside him.

Together with a mirror called Yata-no-Kagami, which is kept at the Ise Grand Shrine, the holiest site in Japan's Shinto religion, the three treasures comprise the regalia that symbolises the legitimacy of the emperor.

Masako, wearing 12-layered robes and an elaborate, upswept hairstyle, also took part, her throne smaller.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a congratulatory speech before guests including Prince Charles, who with then-wife Princess Diana attended Akihito's enthronement, as well as U.S. Transport Secretary Elaine Chao and Myanmar civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Abe then led the assembled dignitaries in giving three "banzai" cheers for the Emperor. 
 
Imperial family future

A court banquet is due to be held on Tuesday evening, before Naruhito and Masako host a tea party for foreign royalty on Wednesday afternoon.

While the public parade was postponed until Nov. 10, the NHK national broadcaster said there were 26,000 police providing security on Tuesday.

Naruhito is unusual among recent Japanese emperors since his only child, 17-year-old Aiko, is female and as such cannot inherit the throne. The future of the imperial family for coming generations rests instead on the shoulders of his nephew, 13-year-old Hisahito, who is second in line for the throne after his father, Prince Akishino.

Naruhito's grandfather, Hirohito, in whose name Japanese troops fought World War Two, was treated as a god but renounced his divine status after Japan's defeat in 1945. Emperors now have no political authority.

Though many Japanese welcomed the enthronement ceremony, some shrugged it off as a nuisance.

"There is no need for such an elaborate ceremony. Traffic has been restricted and it is causing inconvenience for ordinary people," said Yoshikazu Arai, 74, a retired surgeon.

"The emperor is necessary now as a symbol of the people, but at some point, the emperor will no longer be necessary. Things will be just fine without an emperor."

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed his ascendancy to the throne on Tuesday in a centuries-old ceremony attended by dignitaries from more than 180 countries, pledging to fulfil his duty as a symbol of the state.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed his ascendancy to the throne on Tuesday in a centuries-old ceremony attended by dignitaries from more than 180 countries, pledging to fulfil his duty as a symbol of the state. Naruhito became emperor in May in a brief, tradition-filled ceremony but Tuesday's "Sokui no Rei" was a more elaborate ritual at the royal palace in which he officially announced his change in status to the world. "I swear that I will act according to the constitution and fulfil my responsibility as the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people," the 59-year-old declared, his voice slightly hoarse, in front of about 2,000 participants, including Britain's Prince Charles. "I sincerely hope that Japan will develop further and contribute to the friendship and peace of the international community, and to the welfare and prosperity of human beings through the people's wisdom and ceaseless efforts." The first Japanese emperor born after World War Two, Naruhito acceded to the throne when his father, Akihito, became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in two centuries after worrying that advancing age might make it hard to perform official duties. "As he is young and energetic with outstanding leadership, I hope he'll support the people of Japan, which has faced continuous disasters and typhoons," said Tomoko Shirakawa, 51, who was among small groups of umbrella-clutching supporters outside the palace. The long-planned celebrations were tempered by Typhoon Hagibis, which killed at least 80 people when it tore through Japan ten days ago, and pouring rain on Tuesday. A public parade was postponed until next month to allow the government to devote its attention to the typhoon clean-up, while Tuesday's inclement weather forced the palace to scale back the number of courtiers in ancient robes taking part in the courtyard ceremony although the skies cleared as it began. Naruhito began the day's ceremonies by reporting his enthronement to his imperial ancestors at one of three shrines on the palace grounds, dressed in a black headdress and pure white robes with a long train borne by an attendant. He was followed later by Empress Masako, 55, his Harvard-educated wife, dressed in 12-layered white robes and attended by two women in violet robes to arrange her train. Tradition-Bound ceremony For the main ceremony in the Matsu-no-Ma, or Hall of Pine, the most prestigious room in the palace, Naruhito wore a traditional burnt-orange robe and headdress, as his father did nearly three decades ago. He declared his enthronement from the "Takamikura", a 6.5-metre (21 feet) high pavilion that weighs about 8 tonnes, with an ancient sword and a jewel, two of the so-called Three Sacred Treasures, placed beside him. Together with a mirror called Yata-no-Kagami, which is kept at the Ise Grand Shrine, the holiest site in Japan's Shinto religion, the three treasures comprise the regalia that symbolises the legitimacy of the emperor. Masako, wearing 12-layered robes and an elaborate, upswept hairstyle, also took part, her throne smaller. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a congratulatory speech before guests including Prince Charles, who with then-wife Princess Diana attended Akihito's enthronement, as well as U.S. Transport Secretary Elaine Chao and Myanmar civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Abe then led the assembled dignitaries in giving three "banzai" cheers for the Emperor. Imperial family future A court banquet is due to be held on Tuesday evening, before Naruhito and Masako host a tea party for foreign royalty on Wednesday afternoon. While the public parade was postponed until Nov. 10, the NHK national broadcaster said there were 26,000 police providing security on Tuesday. Naruhito is unusual among recent Japanese emperors since his only child, 17-year-old Aiko, is female and as such cannot inherit the throne. The future of the imperial family for coming generations rests instead on the shoulders of his nephew, 13-year-old Hisahito, who is second in line for the throne after his father, Prince Akishino. Naruhito's grandfather, Hirohito, in whose name Japanese troops fought World War Two, was treated as a god but renounced his divine status after Japan's defeat in 1945. Emperors now have no political authority. Though many Japanese welcomed the enthronement ceremony, some shrugged it off as a nuisance. "There is no need for such an elaborate ceremony. Traffic has been restricted and it is causing inconvenience for ordinary people," said Yoshikazu Arai, 74, a retired surgeon. "The emperor is necessary now as a symbol of the people, but at some point, the emperor will no longer be necessary. Things will be just fine without an emperor."

Japanese emperor publicly proclaims his enthronement in centuries-old ceremony

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Tuesday began a string of ritual-bound ceremonies that complete his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne, with the after-effects of a deadly typhoon casting a shadow over proceedings.

Naruhito officially assumed his duties as emperor on May 1, a day after his father became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in 200 years.

But the transition is not complete until his new role is officially proclaimed, in a series of events expected to be attended by foreign dignitaries from over 180 countries.

The festivities have been scaled back however in the wake of devastating Typhoon Hagibis, which slammed into Japan just over a week ago, killing more than 80.

With people still searching for missing loved ones and living in shelters, the government has postponed until November 10 an open-top car parade that had been intended to introduce the royal pair to the public.

But the rest of the day's ceremonies are going ahead as planned, and Naruhito began the day by "reporting" the proclamation to deities and his ancestors in the ancient royal dynasty.

Dressed in a voluminous white robe and a rarely seen kanmuri black hat complete with a tail extending up to 60cm at the back of his head, he moved between three "sanctuaries" on the palace grounds, trailed by attendants.

A small group of guests, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other cabinet members and royal relatives including Crown Prince Akishino, attended the ceremony.

Later Tuesday, the emperor and his wife Empress Masako will appear at the day's main event in the Imperial Palace's prestigious Pine Room.

'Banzai!'

Naruhito, in a ceremonial outfit dominated by a draped outer robe in copper, a colour worn only by the emperor, will declare his enthronement from the "Takamikura" throne.

Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, will wear an elaborate outfit known as "junihitoe" or many-layered robe, and be alongside the emperor on a slightly smaller throne.

Her silk robes will be so heavy it will be difficult for her to move, and attendants will trail her adjusting her outfit.

The ceremony will be conducted in the presence of an ancient sword and jewel, part of the imperial regalia said to have been handed down by a goddess and considered crucial evidence of an emperor's legitimacy.

Some 2,000 guests, including foreign dignitaries and royalty, will rise to drum beats before the proclamation.

After the emperor finishes speaking, Abe will exclaim "banzai" ("long live the Emperor") three times, completing the process.

While the parade has been put off, a series of banquets for guests ranging from Britain's Prince Charles to South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-Yon will go ahead.

And the government announced more than half a million people convicted of minor offences will be pardoned as part of the events.

On Tuesday morning, only a handful of people braved driving rain to stand outside the palace for a glimpse of arriving visitors.

Sanae Yasuda, in her 70s, had booked a tour from central Japan's Nagoya for the occasion and decided to come even after the parade was cancelled.

"I wanted to see the parade, and not just the emperor and empress, but to experience the atmosphere because it's so rare," she told AFP.

"I didn't know the palace was closed, I wanted to go inside... I'm still happy to be here."

Succession worries

Oxford-educated Naruhito faces a delicate balancing act as emperor, seeking to continue his father's legacy of bringing the monarchy closer to the people while upholding the centuries-old traditions of the Chrysanthemum Throne.

And the royal line faces its own challenges, with a dearth of successors thanks to rules that prevent women from inheriting the throne.

The royal couple has one child, a 17-year-old daughter called Aiko.

Naruhito's brother Akishino is currently crown prince. And Akishino's son, 13-year-old Hisahito,&nbsp;is currently the only other remaining successor.

There have been calls to revise the succession rules, but so far there have been no formal moves.

Despite the succession worries, the royals remain broadly popular.

A poll released by national broadcaster NHK on the eve of the ceremony found 70 per cent of voters in the country hold "friendly or favourable" views towards the imperial family.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Tuesday began a string of ritual-bound ceremonies that complete his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne, with the after-effects of a deadly typhoon casting a shadow over proceedings.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Tuesday began a string of ritual-bound ceremonies that complete his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne, with the after-effects of a deadly typhoon casting a shadow over proceedings. Naruhito officially assumed his duties as emperor on May 1, a day after his father became the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in 200 years. But the transition is not complete until his new role is officially proclaimed, in a series of events expected to be attended by foreign dignitaries from over 180 countries. The festivities have been scaled back however in the wake of devastating Typhoon Hagibis, which slammed into Japan just over a week ago, killing more than 80. With people still searching for missing loved ones and living in shelters, the government has postponed until November 10 an open-top car parade that had been intended to introduce the royal pair to the public. But the rest of the day's ceremonies are going ahead as planned, and Naruhito began the day by "reporting" the proclamation to deities and his ancestors in the ancient royal dynasty. Dressed in a voluminous white robe and a rarely seen kanmuri black hat complete with a tail extending up to 60cm at the back of his head, he moved between three "sanctuaries" on the palace grounds, trailed by attendants. A small group of guests, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other cabinet members and royal relatives including Crown Prince Akishino, attended the ceremony. Later Tuesday, the emperor and his wife Empress Masako will appear at the day's main event in the Imperial Palace's prestigious Pine Room. 'Banzai!' Naruhito, in a ceremonial outfit dominated by a draped outer robe in copper, a colour worn only by the emperor, will declare his enthronement from the "Takamikura" throne. Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, will wear an elaborate outfit known as "junihitoe" or many-layered robe, and be alongside the emperor on a slightly smaller throne. Her silk robes will be so heavy it will be difficult for her to move, and attendants will trail her adjusting her outfit. The ceremony will be conducted in the presence of an ancient sword and jewel, part of the imperial regalia said to have been handed down by a goddess and considered crucial evidence of an emperor's legitimacy. Some 2,000 guests, including foreign dignitaries and royalty, will rise to drum beats before the proclamation. After the emperor finishes speaking, Abe will exclaim "banzai" ("long live the Emperor") three times, completing the process. While the parade has been put off, a series of banquets for guests ranging from Britain's Prince Charles to South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-Yon will go ahead. And the government announced more than half a million people convicted of minor offences will be pardoned as part of the events. On Tuesday morning, only a handful of people braved driving rain to stand outside the palace for a glimpse of arriving visitors. Sanae Yasuda, in her 70s, had booked a tour from central Japan's Nagoya for the occasion and decided to come even after the parade was cancelled. "I wanted to see the parade, and not just the emperor and empress, but to experience the atmosphere because it's so rare," she told AFP. "I didn't know the palace was closed, I wanted to go inside... I'm still happy to be here." Succession worries Oxford-educated Naruhito faces a delicate balancing act as emperor, seeking to continue his father's legacy of bringing the monarchy closer to the people while upholding the centuries-old traditions of the Chrysanthemum Throne. And the royal line faces its own challenges, with a dearth of successors thanks to rules that prevent women from inheriting the throne. The royal couple has one child, a 17-year-old daughter called Aiko. Naruhito's brother Akishino is currently crown prince. And Akishino's son, 13-year-old Hisahito, is currently the only other remaining successor. There have been calls to revise the succession rules, but so far there have been no formal moves. Despite the succession worries, the royals remain broadly popular. A poll released by national broadcaster NHK on the eve of the ceremony found 70 per cent of voters in the country hold "friendly or favourable" views towards the imperial family.

Japan emperor to complete enthronement in ritual-bound ceremony

Japan's new emperor Naruhito to sit on the Takamikura

Japan's new emperor ascend the throne

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally proclaims his enthronement in 'Sokui no Rei'

Tiger Woods on Monday declared himself "right on schedule" after recent knee surgery as he prepares to return to competition at this week's Zozo Championship following two months on the sidelines.

Speaking at his first press conference since an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee on August&nbsp;21, Woods left no doubt that he would be ready for Thursday's first-round when the US-based PGA Tour plays its first official-money event in Japan.

But he also revealed the knee had bothered him throughout his 2019 campaign, which famously included his Masters triumph, and that he had originally planned to have the surgery at the end of last year, before postponing it.

"I've been battling through this entire year trying to piece it together," said the 15-times major champion, whose season petered out after his Augusta National victory in April.

"It progressively got worse, to where it started affecting my back and the way I was walking and trying to play, trying to read putts and all of the above.

"So I'm excited about having this end-of-the-year run where I'm feeling much more fit and I don't have the achiness that I've been dealing with for the last couple of years."

The famously private Woods was typically vague about when he had started practising again after the procedure, the fifth on his banged-up left knee.

This week's tournament at Narashino Country Club will be 43-year-old American's final chance to assess his form and fitness before deciding whether to include himself as a player on the United States team that he will captain at the Presidents Cup.

He said that getting the surgery done had improved the chances he can justify picking himself for the December&nbsp;12-15 event against an International team at Royal Melbourne in Australia.

Woods has two more weeks before naming four wild card selections to complete his 12-man line-up.

"It made me more hopeful," he said of his thoughts post-surgery. "It's been nice to finally get over the hump and start feeling good again and start going at it full speed."

Woods, wearing a dark blue sleeveless sweater, flashed his famous smile multiple times for the cameras during the 19-minute interview. He was speaking before a Monday afternoon Japan Skins made-for-TV exhibition with Rory McIlroy, Hideki Matsuyama and Jason Day.

Woods is making his first appearance in Japan in 13 years, after being a regular visitor for the first decade of his professional career.

Tiger Woods on Monday declared himself "right on schedule" after recent knee surgery as he prepares to return to competition at this week's Zozo Championship following two months on the sidelines.

Tiger Woods on Monday declared himself "right on schedule" after recent knee surgery as he prepares to return to competition at this week's Zozo Championship following two months on the sidelines. Speaking at his first press conference since an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee on August 21, Woods left no doubt that he would be ready for Thursday's first-round when the US-based PGA Tour plays its first official-money event in Japan. But he also revealed the knee had bothered him throughout his 2019 campaign, which famously included his Masters triumph, and that he had originally planned to have the surgery at the end of last year, before postponing it. "I've been battling through this entire year trying to piece it together," said the 15-times major champion, whose season petered out after his Augusta National victory in April. "It progressively got worse, to where it started affecting my back and the way I was walking and trying to play, trying to read putts and all of the above. "So I'm excited about having this end-of-the-year run where I'm feeling much more fit and I don't have the achiness that I've been dealing with for the last couple of years." The famously private Woods was typically vague about when he had started practising again after the procedure, the fifth on his banged-up left knee. This week's tournament at Narashino Country Club will be 43-year-old American's final chance to assess his form and fitness before deciding whether to include himself as a player on the United States team that he will captain at the Presidents Cup. He said that getting the surgery done had improved the chances he can justify picking himself for the December 12-15 event against an International team at Royal Melbourne in Australia. Woods has two more weeks before naming four wild card selections to complete his 12-man line-up. "It made me more hopeful," he said of his thoughts post-surgery. "It's been nice to finally get over the hump and start feeling good again and start going at it full speed." Woods, wearing a dark blue sleeveless sweater, flashed his famous smile multiple times for the cameras during the 19-minute interview. He was speaking before a Monday afternoon Japan Skins made-for-TV exhibition with Rory McIlroy, Hideki Matsuyama and Jason Day. Woods is making his first appearance in Japan in 13 years, after being a regular visitor for the first decade of his professional career.

Tiger Woods declares himself ready for action after knee surgery

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