A severe snowstorm hits Japan, covering cars, streets, and trees with thick snow. Traffic faces major disruptions as snowplows work to clear the roads. The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of up to 70 cm of snow, creating hazardous conditions throughout the region.

Japan's meteorological agency warns of severe snowfall

Japan will now allow Taiwan to be listed as a place of origin in its family registry. Taiwan welcomed the decision, while China strongly urged Japan to adhere to the One-China principle.

Japan to allow Taiwan as place of origin in family registry

Japan to allow Taiwan to be listed in family records

Japan is set fresh climate targets pledging to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent in the next decade from 2013 levels. Japan's environment ministry said that it aims to slash emissions 60 percent by the 2035 fiscal year, which starts in April.

Japan aims for 73% emissions cut by 2040

Japan set fresh climate targets,...

Pledging to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent in the next decade from 2013 levels...

Japan's environment ministry said that it aims to slash emissions 60 percent by the 2035 fiscal year, which starts in April

Japan pledges 60% emissions cut by 2035

Japan is all set to turn to nuclear power more than a decade after the triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (Feb 12) citing a draft strategic energy plan, reportedly to be approved by the cabinet this month. The move comes as the nation said it is struggling to reach its emissions targets and bolster its energy security.&nbsp;
The report mentioned that the trade and industry ministry signalled it was ditching attempts to lessen Japan's reliance on nuclear power which started after the Fukushima disaster.&nbsp;
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Japan, on March 11, 2011, was hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake, which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The disaster wiped out 120,000 buildings and led to a partial meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.&nbsp;
According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimate is at least 20,000.&nbsp;
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Japan had 54 nuclear reactors providing nearly 30 per cent of the nation's energy before the disaster and according to the International Energy Agency, only 14 of those have been switched back on, with nuclear providing less than nine per cent of power in 2023.&nbsp;
The latest Strategic Energy Plan by the government reportedly called for a "maximisation" of nuclear power and dropped a reference to "reducing reliance" on nuclear energy. The nation has set a target for nuclear to provide a 20 per cent share of the nation's grid by 2040.&nbsp;
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As quoted by ABC News, a visiting researcher at Tokyo's Institute for Future Initiatives, Parul Bakshi, said that the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent disruption of global energy markets also helped highlight the risk of Japan's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels.&nbsp;
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She said, "So while Japan is not heavily reliant on Russia for gas &hellip; Japan is re-evaluating how it perceives energy security."&nbsp;
As quoted by The Guardian, Aileen Smith, executive director of the Kyoto-based group Green Action said, "Nuclear plants are not where the Japanese government should be investing its money. Many nuclear plants are old, and the technology they use is even older. The costs of retrofitting are high, so even operating existing plants is no longer commercially viable."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Japan aims to expand nuclear power over a decade after the Fukushima disaster to enhance energy security and meet emissions targets, as per a new strategic energy plan.

Japan is all set to turn to nuclear power more than a decade after the triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, The Guardian reported on Wednesday (Feb 12) citing a draft strategic energy plan, reportedly to be approved by the cabinet this month. The move comes as the nation said it is struggling to reach its emissions targets and bolster its energy security. The report mentioned that the trade and industry ministry signalled it was ditching attempts to lessen Japan's reliance on nuclear power which started after the Fukushima disaster. Also read: Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives Japan, on March 11, 2011, was hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake, which was centred in the Pacific Ocean about 80 kilometres east of the city of Sendai. The disaster wiped out 120,000 buildings and led to a partial meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. According to the US Geological Survey, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan and the fourth largest recorded worldwide since 1900. As per the data released officially, the number of those confirmed dead or listed as missing from the 2011 disaster was about 18,500. Another estimate is at least 20,000. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi and US VP JD Vance discuss US-India energy collaboration over coffee Japan had 54 nuclear reactors providing nearly 30 per cent of the nation's energy before the disaster and according to the International Energy Agency, only 14 of those have been switched back on, with nuclear providing less than nine per cent of power in 2023. The latest Strategic Energy Plan by the government reportedly called for a "maximisation" of nuclear power and dropped a reference to "reducing reliance" on nuclear energy. The nation has set a target for nuclear to provide a 20 per cent share of the nation's grid by 2040. Also read: Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt As quoted by ABC News, a visiting researcher at Tokyo's Institute for Future Initiatives, Parul Bakshi, said that the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent disruption of global energy markets also helped highlight the risk of Japan's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky changes stance, says Ukraine open to land swap with Russia She said, "So while Japan is not heavily reliant on Russia for gas … Japan is re-evaluating how it perceives energy security." As quoted by The Guardian, Aileen Smith, executive director of the Kyoto-based group Green Action said, "Nuclear plants are not where the Japanese government should be investing its money. Many nuclear plants are old, and the technology they use is even older. The costs of retrofitting are high, so even operating existing plants is no longer commercially viable." (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to expand nuclear power over a decade after Fukushima disaster: Report

Gold smuggling cases are surging in Japan on the back of the rising price of the precious metal and the recovery of overseas tourists following the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch this report for more details!

Japan: Gold smuggling cases surge by 30%

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has accused the U.S. of forming a NATO-like military bloc in the region, warning of dire consequences. He vowed to expand and modernize North Korea’s nuclear arsenal in response to growing alliances between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.

Kim Jong Un warns US over military bloc plans in Asia

US President Donald Trump meets Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, discussing energy exports, security, and trade. Trump announces record US natural gas exports to Japan, while both leaders agree to counter China’s regional influence.

Trump, Japan PM Ishiba strengthen ties with energy, security & trade deals

Each winter, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit to see the spectacle of Japan's snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs of Jigokudani Park. With the rise in footfall of tourists, the monkeys have become the region's biggest attraction, raising concerns for their welfare.

Japan's bathing macaques draw record tourists

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is set to meet US President Donald Trump, marking a crucial moment in the US-Japan alliance. Watch this report for more details!

Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba to meet Trump

Several parts of Japan have been blanketed by heavy snowfall, drawing skiers and snowboarders to Mt. Isola. Eyewitness videos show long lines for cable cars as winter sports enthusiasts take advantage of the fresh snow.

Heavy snowfall hits Japan as skiers and snowboarders flock to Mt. Isola for winter adventure.

Northern Japan witnessed record-breaking snowfall - disrupting traffic, causing airport closures, and delaying deliveries. Watch this report for more details!

Northern Japan hit by heavy snow

Japan celebrates the Setsubun Festival with a unique tradition of throwing beans to drive away evil spirits and bring in good fortune for the year ahead. The lively event is marked by vibrant rituals and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into Japanese customs and beliefs.

Japan’s Setsubun festival: A bean-throwing tradition to welcome fortune

Visitors at an innovative exhibition in Tokyo stepped into Japan's illustrious Samurai era, where advanced technology brought the iconic creations of renowned artist Hokusai to life. We leave you with these images of Japan's culture. Watch in for more details!

Tokyo launches Hokusai art exhibit

Japan scrambled jets in response to Russian bombers flying over international waters near its airspace. The incident has heightened tensions between the two nations amidst growing security concerns.

Russian bombers navigate international waters near Japan

The rescue operations to save a 74-year-old truck driver trapped in a massive sinkhole in Yashio City, Saitama Prefecture, intensified on Friday (Jan 31), as rescuers grapple with unstable ground conditions and the growing hazards of the situation.
The driver had stopped near an intersection in Saitama Prefecture when the sinkhole suddenly opened beneath the road, swallowing him with the truck on Jan 28.
A massive sinkhole, initially measuring 10 meters in width and 5 meters in depth, has dramatically expanded to twice its original size after merging with a nearby sinkhole.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Contact with driver lost&nbsp;</h2>
According to Yoshifumi Hashiguchi, an official from the Yashio Fire Department, the driver last communicated with rescue teams on the afternoon of the incident, but contact was lost as the truck became increasingly buried by soil and debris.
Rescue efforts are underway to retrieve a truck swallowed by a massive sinkhole. While cranes have managed to lift the loading platform, the driver remains trapped in the cabin, which is still submerged.
A drone was sent to explore potential access points for rescuers, but no advancements were made.
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<h2 dir="ltr">What did the authorities say?</h2>
Local authorities said the collapse was triggered by a burst sewer pipe under the road that transports wastewater to a nearby treatment facility. The damage to the pipeline has prompted the prefecture to issue a directive for 1.2 million residents in the area to refrain from using water.
In response to the incident, Japan&rsquo;s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said it has called for emergency inspections of similar infrastructure, particularly those connected to large-scale wastewater treatment plants.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Rescue efforts intensified in Yashio City as rescuers faced unstable ground while trying to save a -year-old truck driver trapped in a large sinkhole.

The rescue operations to save a 74-year-old truck driver trapped in a massive sinkhole in Yashio City, Saitama Prefecture, intensified on Friday (Jan 31), as rescuers grapple with unstable ground conditions and the growing hazards of the situation. The driver had stopped near an intersection in Saitama Prefecture when the sinkhole suddenly opened beneath the road, swallowing him with the truck on Jan 28. A massive sinkhole, initially measuring 10 meters in width and 5 meters in depth, has dramatically expanded to twice its original size after merging with a nearby sinkhole. Also read | Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash Contact with driver lost According to Yoshifumi Hashiguchi, an official from the Yashio Fire Department, the driver last communicated with rescue teams on the afternoon of the incident, but contact was lost as the truck became increasingly buried by soil and debris. Rescue efforts are underway to retrieve a truck swallowed by a massive sinkhole. While cranes have managed to lift the loading platform, the driver remains trapped in the cabin, which is still submerged. A drone was sent to explore potential access points for rescuers, but no advancements were made. Also read | Morning news brief: 'Black boxes' recovered in US Plane Crash; Indian Budget session begins today, and more What did the authorities say? Local authorities said the collapse was triggered by a burst sewer pipe under the road that transports wastewater to a nearby treatment facility. The damage to the pipeline has prompted the prefecture to issue a directive for 1.2 million residents in the area to refrain from using water. In response to the incident, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said it has called for emergency inspections of similar infrastructure, particularly those connected to large-scale wastewater treatment plants. (With inputs from agencies)

Rescue efforts intensify in Japan to reach driver trapped in sinkhole for days

The president and chairman of Japan's Fuji Television Network Inc. stepped down Monday to take responsibility for a scandal involving popular TV host Masahiro Nakai. Watch this report for more details!

Japan: Fuji TV Chairman & President resign over accusation of sexual assault

Japan: Fuji TV Chairman & President resign over TV host scandal

Amid its aggressive maneuvers targeting Taiwan, China is also carrying out a silent invasion of Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture. Watch in for more details!

China secretly trying to gain control of Japan's Okinawa

China's gameplan for 'Taiwan incursion'

China is secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, which is just 750 kilometres from Taiwan and hosts a significant US military presence of nearly 30,000 troops.
Now, with propaganda and diplomatic outreach, Beijing is carrying out a &ldquo;silent invasion&rdquo; of the southernmost prefecture in Japan as it shapes the battlefield for a potential incursion.
Analysts believed that China was well aware that a Taiwanese invasion would prompt a swift response from US aircraft and warships, backed by Japanese forces, threatening the invasion fleet's northern flank. To counter this, China is reportedly seeking to neutralise this potential threat.
The Chinese assault, they say, is through the sowing of discord between residents and the national government by playing up economic problems in the nation&rsquo;s poorest prefecture as well as historical grievances over the annexation of what was then the independent kingdom of Ryukyu in 1879.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Spreading propaganda against the US military presence in Okinawa</h2>
Chinese state media frequently seized the opportunity to publicise misconduct by US military personnel and emphasise the disproportionate presence of US bases in Okinawa, which occupies only 0.6 per cent of Japan's land but hosts a staggering 70 per cent of US military bases in the country.
It also hosts some of the American military&rsquo;s most sophisticated weapons systems.
Taken together, these are the sort of wedges that serve to alienate native islanders and those they see as outsiders.
<h2 dir="ltr">Recruiting ethnic Chinese living in Okinawa to help them</h2>
According to the reports, mainland Chinese officials have been secretly recruiting ethnic Chinese residents in Okinawa to establish an underground police station, mirroring Beijing's clandestine operations in other countries worldwide.
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To add to the pressure, propaganda clips can be found across Chinese social media proclaiming that the majority of Okinawans favour independence.
A Japanese news magazine, Weekly Genda, revealed that China plans to establish a "Ryukuku Research Centre" at Dalian Maritime University, aiming to strengthen China's international claims to the Ryukyu Islands, which include Okinawa.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: China's strategic manoeuvres in Okinawa reveal efforts to assert control near Taiwan, challenging the US military's significant presence of troops in the region.

China is secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, which is just 750 kilometres from Taiwan and hosts a significant US military presence of nearly 30,000 troops. Now, with propaganda and diplomatic outreach, Beijing is carrying out a “silent invasion” of the southernmost prefecture in Japan as it shapes the battlefield for a potential incursion. Analysts believed that China was well aware that a Taiwanese invasion would prompt a swift response from US aircraft and warships, backed by Japanese forces, threatening the invasion fleet's northern flank. To counter this, China is reportedly seeking to neutralise this potential threat. The Chinese assault, they say, is through the sowing of discord between residents and the national government by playing up economic problems in the nation’s poorest prefecture as well as historical grievances over the annexation of what was then the independent kingdom of Ryukyu in 1879. Also read | Won’t allow Awami League to contest Bangladesh polls: Yunus’ adviser Spreading propaganda against the US military presence in Okinawa Chinese state media frequently seized the opportunity to publicise misconduct by US military personnel and emphasise the disproportionate presence of US bases in Okinawa, which occupies only 0.6 per cent of Japan's land but hosts a staggering 70 per cent of US military bases in the country. It also hosts some of the American military’s most sophisticated weapons systems. Taken together, these are the sort of wedges that serve to alienate native islanders and those they see as outsiders. Recruiting ethnic Chinese living in Okinawa to help them According to the reports, mainland Chinese officials have been secretly recruiting ethnic Chinese residents in Okinawa to establish an underground police station, mirroring Beijing's clandestine operations in other countries worldwide. Also read | Trump’s anti-DEI order grounds documentary on Tuskegee Airmen and female WWII pilots To add to the pressure, propaganda clips can be found across Chinese social media proclaiming that the majority of Okinawans favour independence. A Japanese news magazine, Weekly Genda, revealed that China plans to establish a "Ryukuku Research Centre" at Dalian Maritime University, aiming to strengthen China's international claims to the Ryukyu Islands, which include Okinawa. (With inputs from agencies)

China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan

Japan’s weakening currency has led to a surge in foreign visitors, with analysts calling the country “on a 30 percent off sale.” In the first 11 months of 2024, Japan saw over 33 million foreign visitors, surpassing its 2019 record of 31.88 million. Watch in for more details!

Japan’s tourism surge linked to favorable exchange rates

For the first time since World War 2, Japan's military forces might step foot on Philippine soil. Signalling Japan’s intention to build a robust defence framework amid rising tensions in the region.

Japanese troops to be in Philippines soon? | Gravitas

Japan and American troops conducted the first Paratrooper Exercise of 2025.

First Japan-US paratrooper exercise of 2025

The Japanese and Indonesian governments had been in discussions for joint development for several years, but talks stalled under former President Joko Widodo's administration as his government prioritized relocating the national capital from Jakarta on Java to Nusantara in Borneo.

Japan, Indonesia weigh naval ship joint development

The Chinese hacker group 'Mirrorface' has launched a cyber attack targeting Japan's cybersecurity infrastructure, raising concerns about the growing threat of cyber warfare. Authorities are investigating the breach and enhancing security measures to protect sensitive data.

Chinese hacker group 'Mirrorface' targets Japan's cyber security

Japan has been grappling with a serious problem of declining birth rates. Now a Japanese expert has warned that if the birth rate continues to fall at this rate, the nation will be left with only one child under the age of 14 by 5 January, 2720. Watch this video to find out more.

Japan faces existential threat as declining birth rates loom large

Japan has recorded the hottest year in its history in 2024, surpassing its previous high in 2023. Japan's meteorological agency reported that the average temperature in 2024 was the highest ever recorded for the second year in a row. Watch in for more details!

Japan Experiences Hottest Year In History

On January 7, 2025, dozens of Japanese protesters gathered in front of Japan's Ministry of Defense in Tokyo, braving rainy weather to rally against the planned relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Henoko in Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture.

Japan protests against US troops relocation; protesters demand closure of US military bases

Online gambling addiction is rapidly becoming a serious issue in Japan, with increasing numbers of individuals affected by the harmful impact of gambling.

Online gambling addiction becomes a growing concern in Japan

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