Japan sweltered through its hottest July since records began 126 years ago, the weather agency said, as extreme heatwaves fuelled by climate change engulfed many parts of the globe.

Temperatures in the country were 2.16 degrees Celsius higher than average, breaking last year's record for July of 1.91 degrees Celsius above average.

"It was the highest since statistics began in 1898," the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said Thursday, noting that the figures were "considerably higher" nationwide.

Of 153 observation posts across Japan, 62 broke their average temperature record in July.

Contributing factors included a high-pressure system over the Pacific and "warm air from the south" that shrouded northern parts of the archipelago, the JMA said.

Since April, heatstroke has killed 59 people in Japan, according to the disaster management agency.

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Parasols and chunky necklaces that can be stored in the freezer have been a common sight around Tokyo, where street performer Jiro Kan, 56, told AFP he was feeling the heat.

"After spending two hours standing here, I get so sweaty I can literally squeeze it all out from my shirt. I'm drenched," said Kan, dressed in an all-yellow suit.

"People who are used to a more dry type of heat like in the United States find the heat and humidity in Japan more difficult to handle," he said in tourist hotspot Asakusa.

Last month, Shizuoka west of Tokyo became the first Japanese region to see the mercury reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) this year -- far surpassing the 35-degree threshold deemed "extremely hot" by authorities.

Heatwaves are becoming increasingly common across the globe, with the European Union's climate monitor saying in July that the Earth experienced its warmest day in recorded history.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan sweltered through its hottest July since records began 126 years ago, the weather agency said, as extreme heatwaves fuelled by climate change engulfed many parts of the globe.

Japan sweltered through its hottest July since records began 126 years ago, the weather agency said, as extreme heatwaves fuelled by climate change engulfed many parts of the globe. Temperatures in the country were 2.16 degrees Celsius higher than average, breaking last year's record for July of 1.91 degrees Celsius above average. "It was the highest since statistics began in 1898," the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said Thursday, noting that the figures were "considerably higher" nationwide. Of 153 observation posts across Japan, 62 broke their average temperature record in July. Contributing factors included a high-pressure system over the Pacific and "warm air from the south" that shrouded northern parts of the archipelago, the JMA said. Since April, heatstroke has killed 59 people in Japan, according to the disaster management agency. Also Read: Monsoon mayhem: Kedarnath route battered with heavy rain; 14 dead, 700 stranded- rescue operation underway Parasols and chunky necklaces that can be stored in the freezer have been a common sight around Tokyo, where street performer Jiro Kan, 56, told AFP he was feeling the heat. "After spending two hours standing here, I get so sweaty I can literally squeeze it all out from my shirt. I'm drenched," said Kan, dressed in an all-yellow suit. "People who are used to a more dry type of heat like in the United States find the heat and humidity in Japan more difficult to handle," he said in tourist hotspot Asakusa. Last month, Shizuoka west of Tokyo became the first Japanese region to see the mercury reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) this year -- far surpassing the 35-degree threshold deemed "extremely hot" by authorities. Heatwaves are becoming increasingly common across the globe, with the European Union's climate monitor saying in July that the Earth experienced its warmest day in recorded history. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan sees hottest July since records began

Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara held trilateral talks with his US and South Korean counterparts. The three signed a treaty as well to enhance security ties between the three countries. Watch in for more details!

Japan signs Security Treaty to enhance security ties between Japan, US & South Korea

Japan’s Mitsubishi motors is poised to join an alliance with Honda and Nissan, forming a significant automotive partnership that will create a formidable group with over 8 million vehicle sales annually, according to Nikkei. This collaboration marks a strategic move to consolidate resources and address the increasing challenges in the global auto market, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.

Mitsubishi joins Honda-Nissan alliance

The United States announced plans Sunday for a major revamp of its military command in Japan to deepen coordination with its ally's forces, as the two countries labelled China the "greatest strategic challenge" facing the region. Watch in for more details!

United States announces major revamp of military command in Japan

Japan signs security treaty with US, South Korea

A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry has warned the US and Japan against "creating imaginary enemies" after the two countries criticized Beijing's behavior in the South China Sea. Watch in for more details!

China slams US and Japan of 'falsely accusing' it of maritime threats

Quad Foreign ministers met in Tokyo on Monday for talks expected to focus on maritime security and initiatives to build up cyber defenses. Watch in for more details!

Quad Summit | Jaishankar: We need to send a message that quad is here to stay

Japan signs a Security Treaty US and South Korea

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Japan on Sunday for a two-day visit for the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting. Mahatma Gandhi's timeless message of peace and non-violence is even more relevant today when the world is witnessing conflicts, polarization and bloodshed, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday. Jaishankar's remarks came as he unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Freedom Plaza in Edogawa, Tokyo.

Jaishankar unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Japan, evokes Gandhi's message of non-violence

The United States announced plans Sunday for a major revamp of its military command in Japan to deepen coordination with its ally's forces, as the two countries labelled China the "greatest strategic challenge" facing the region.

The US announces major revamp of military command in Japan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Japan on Sunday for a two-day visit for the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting. He was received by India's Ambassador to Japan and Republic of Marshall Islands, Sibi George.

Indian EAM Jaishankar unveils bust of Mahatma Gandhi

Now, we look at Japan's new plan to support low-income households amid rising inflation. For the fourth year running, Japan's labour ministry has recommended a minimum wage hike that would be the country's highest ever.

Japan proposes record minimum pay hike

3 people are missing in Japan after heavy rains have caused rivers to burst their banks washing away cars and prompting several thousand locals to evacuate. Watch the video to find out more!

Heavy Rain In Northern Japan triggers floods & landslides, disrupts travel

The Chairman and President of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical is all set to resign following the probe reports into 80 deaths linked to dietary supplements manufactured by the company. Watch in for more details!

Japan: Chairman & President of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical to step down over supplement scandal

Honda Motor, the Japanese automotive giant, has announced significant changes to its manufacturing operations in China as part of a strategic shift towards increased electric vehicle (EV) production.

Honda Motor, the Japanese automotive giant, has announced significant changes to its manufacturing operations in China as part of a strategic shift towards increased electric vehicle (EV) production. This move comes in response to intensifying competition from Chinese brands in the world's largest automotive market. The company plans to implement two major changes to its production facilities in China: 1. Closure of a joint venture plant: Honda will shut down a factory operated in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), a Chinese state-owned automaker. This plant, which has been in operation for nearly 20 years and has an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles, primarily manufactures the Accord sedan model. The closure is scheduled for October. 2. Production halt at another facility: Honda will suspend vehicle production at a separate factory operated through its joint venture with Dongfeng, another Chinese automaker. This facility, with an annual production capacity of 240,000 vehicles, will cease operations in November. These changes are part of Honda's efforts to optimise its output in China, acknowledging the challenging conditions in the Chinese automotive market. As a result of these production stoppages, Honda's annual production capacity in China will decrease from 1.49 million to 1.2 million vehicles. However, Honda has plans to offset this reduction and adapt to the changing market dynamics: 1. New EV plants: The company is currently constructing two new electric vehicle production facilities through its joint ventures with GAC and Dongfeng. These plants are expected to commence operations later this year. 2. Capacity restoration: Once the new EV plants are operational, Honda aims to bring its annual production capacity back up to 1.44 million vehicles, demonstrating its commitment to the Chinese market despite the current challenges. This strategic shift comes in response to the rapidly evolving Chinese automotive landscape. Domestic Chinese automakers have made significant progress in capturing market share by offering competitively priced vehicles loaded with advanced software features. This trend has particularly impacted Japanese brands like Honda and Nissan, for whom China was historically a strong market. The challenges faced by Japanese automakers in China have led to discussions of potential collaborations. In March, Honda and Nissan announced that they were considering a strategic partnership to cooperate on the production of EV components and the development of artificial intelligence for automotive software platforms. These developments underscore the broader shifts occurring in the global automotive industry, with a growing emphasis on electric vehicles and advanced technologies. As traditional automakers like Honda adapt their strategies to remain competitive, the landscape of vehicle production and market dynamics in China and beyond continues to evolve rapidly. The news of Honda's production capacity reduction in China was initially reported by the Nikkei Business Daily, highlighting the significance of these changes for both the company and the broader automotive industry.

Japan's Honda to close China plant, stop production at second factory

Japan's Air Self-Defense Force and the German, French and Spanish air forces begin joint exercises in the airspace around Japan from Friday as Europe deploys more forces in the region to increase deterrence against China and Russia.

Germany, France and Japan hold joint military drills

Around 30 per cent of McDonald's outlets across Japan have suspended operations due to a cash register glitch, the Japanese unit of the fast food chain operator said Friday.

McDonald's Japan faces major system outage, closes 30% stores

Japan's government cut its growth forecast for the current fiscal year, driven by a consumption slowdown because of the rising import costs related to a weak yen.

The updated forecast issued Friday expects the economy to grow 0.9 per cent in the fiscal year ending March 2025, down from 1.3 per cent projected in January.

Though it has cut the forecast, the government still projects the economy to grow 1.2 per cent in fiscal 2025 on the back of solid capital expenditure and an expected consumption uptick.

These are revised estimates much more upbeat than some private sector forecasts calling for growth of only 0.4 per cent.

Members of the government's top economic council expressed their worry about how the weak yen was weakening household purchasing power.

They said that rising prices, partly due to a weakened yen, were partly putting an overall chill in consumption.

"We can't overlook the impact a weak yen and rising prices are having on households' purchasing power," the council members said in the meeting discussing new growth projections.

It also includes Prime Minister Fumio Kishida adding warnings over the economic impact of higher prices, saying that the government is required to be extremely careful about the effects that the weak yen is going to have on the economy, the Kyodo news agency reported.

The revised forecasts by the Japanese government of annual economic growth, published in January and revised around July each year, are core factors in state budget planning.

The latest revision portrays deeper concerns about the fragility of the economy amid global uncertainties.

While the weak yen has been a boon to make exporters' products cheaper abroad, it has also driven up costs at home for fuel and food imports that hit consumers hard.

Moves believed to have been made by the government this month several times to stem the yen's fall continue in full swing.

Attention turns to whether the Bank of Japan will hike interest rates in its upcoming policy-setting gathering on July 31.

The BOJ is also likely to cut its growth forecast for the current fiscal year after a rare unscheduled downgrade of historical GDP figures earlier this month.

The central bank now forecasts growth of 0.8 per cent for the fiscal year.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Japan's government cut its growth forecast for the current fiscal year, driven by a consumption slowdown because of the rising import costs related to a weak yen.

Japan's government cut its growth forecast for the current fiscal year, driven by a consumption slowdown because of the rising import costs related to a weak yen. The updated forecast issued Friday expects the economy to grow 0.9 per cent in the fiscal year ending March 2025, down from 1.3 per cent projected in January. Though it has cut the forecast, the government still projects the economy to grow 1.2 per cent in fiscal 2025 on the back of solid capital expenditure and an expected consumption uptick. These are revised estimates much more upbeat than some private sector forecasts calling for growth of only 0.4 per cent. Members of the government's top economic council expressed their worry about how the weak yen was weakening household purchasing power. They said that rising prices, partly due to a weakened yen, were partly putting an overall chill in consumption. "We can't overlook the impact a weak yen and rising prices are having on households' purchasing power," the council members said in the meeting discussing new growth projections. It also includes Prime Minister Fumio Kishida adding warnings over the economic impact of higher prices, saying that the government is required to be extremely careful about the effects that the weak yen is going to have on the economy, the Kyodo news agency reported. The revised forecasts by the Japanese government of annual economic growth, published in January and revised around July each year, are core factors in state budget planning. The latest revision portrays deeper concerns about the fragility of the economy amid global uncertainties. While the weak yen has been a boon to make exporters' products cheaper abroad, it has also driven up costs at home for fuel and food imports that hit consumers hard. Moves believed to have been made by the government this month several times to stem the yen's fall continue in full swing. Attention turns to whether the Bank of Japan will hike interest rates in its upcoming policy-setting gathering on July 31. The BOJ is also likely to cut its growth forecast for the current fiscal year after a rare unscheduled downgrade of historical GDP figures earlier this month. The central bank now forecasts growth of 0.8 per cent for the fiscal year. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan lowers growth forecast as weak Yen impacts consumption

Japan welcomed a million more foreign visitors in the first half of 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, logging a new record of 17.78 million, the national tourism organisation said Friday.

The weak yen is attracting large crowds to Japan, with tourists splashing out on everything from kimonos to knives and pricey meals.

The January-June figure beat the previous high from 2019 of 16.63 million, an influx that has prompted overcrowding concerns at hotspots such as Kyoto and Mount Fuji.

"It's important that we promote rural regions to visitors, while taking measures against overtourism," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told a cabinet meeting on the nation's efforts to expand inbound tourism.

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Japan is expecting 35 million overseas visitors in 2024, with tourist consumption estimated at eight trillion yen ($50 billion).

Over the whole of 2023, 25 million visitors came to Japan, after strict pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted.

The country has set an ambitious goal of luring 60 million tourists a year by 2030 -- around double 2019's full-year record of 31.88 million.

But some residents are already fed up with unruly behaviour and etiquette breaches by some foreign visitors.

In a town near Mount Fuji in May, authorities mounted a large barrier at a popular viewing spot next to a convenience store in an attempt to deter photo-taking.

New crowd control measures have been put in place on the volcano's most popular hiking trail, which now has an entry fee of 2,000 yen ($13) plus an optional donation.

Locals in tradition-steeped Kyoto have complained of tourists harassing the city's famed geisha, with visitors now banned from some private alleys.

And the mayor of Himeji has said the western Japanese city, famous for its castle, could make tourists pay four times as much as locals to visit the World Heritage site.

<h2>- 'Pretty bad in Kyoto' -</h2>

"The yen definitely being so weak, we knew our money would go a long way," Ian Dickson, a 41-year-old American, told AFP in Tokyo's Asakusa district, a top tourist draw.

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"Love it so far," he added. "There's no trash on the ground, no litter. It's a beautiful country, beautiful culture."

Andrea Bugnicourt, 28, a French tour guide working in Tokyo, said demand has been "crazy" since the pandemic ended.

"I heard it's pretty bad in Kyoto," she said about the overtourism complaints.

"Japan has so many social rules, right? And people are not used to it. So I think the Japanese government should help on educating foreigners."

In the first six months of 2024, South Korean visitors to Japan topped the list of foreign tourists by country at 4.4 million.

China was second at around three million, five times as many as in the same period last year. Visitors from Taiwan were in third place and the United States in fourth.

Kishida's government on Friday presented plans to encourage luxury hotels to come to Japan's 35 national parks, Nippon TV and other local media reported.

The prime minister also instructed ministers to take emergency measures to address a jet fuel shortage, partly caused by surging demand from tourists, that has prevented airlines from increasing flights.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan welcomed a million more foreign visitors in the first half of 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, logging a new record of 17.78 million, the national tourism organisation said Friday.

Japan welcomed a million more foreign visitors in the first half of 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, logging a new record of 17.78 million, the national tourism organisation said Friday. The weak yen is attracting large crowds to Japan, with tourists splashing out on everything from kimonos to knives and pricey meals. The January-June figure beat the previous high from 2019 of 16.63 million, an influx that has prompted overcrowding concerns at hotspots such as Kyoto and Mount Fuji. "It's important that we promote rural regions to visitors, while taking measures against overtourism," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told a cabinet meeting on the nation's efforts to expand inbound tourism. Also read: 'Journalism is dead': US-based magazine faces flak for 'disgusting' cover featuring Trump and Biden Japan is expecting 35 million overseas visitors in 2024, with tourist consumption estimated at eight trillion yen ($50 billion). Over the whole of 2023, 25 million visitors came to Japan, after strict pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted. The country has set an ambitious goal of luring 60 million tourists a year by 2030 -- around double 2019's full-year record of 31.88 million. But some residents are already fed up with unruly behaviour and etiquette breaches by some foreign visitors. In a town near Mount Fuji in May, authorities mounted a large barrier at a popular viewing spot next to a convenience store in an attempt to deter photo-taking. New crowd control measures have been put in place on the volcano's most popular hiking trail, which now has an entry fee of 2,000 yen ($13) plus an optional donation. Locals in tradition-steeped Kyoto have complained of tourists harassing the city's famed geisha, with visitors now banned from some private alleys. And the mayor of Himeji has said the western Japanese city, famous for its castle, could make tourists pay four times as much as locals to visit the World Heritage site. - 'Pretty bad in Kyoto' - "The yen definitely being so weak, we knew our money would go a long way," Ian Dickson, a 41-year-old American, told AFP in Tokyo's Asakusa district, a top tourist draw. Also read: Canada: Jennie Carignan becomes the first woman chief of the defense staff "Love it so far," he added. "There's no trash on the ground, no litter. It's a beautiful country, beautiful culture." Andrea Bugnicourt, 28, a French tour guide working in Tokyo, said demand has been "crazy" since the pandemic ended. "I heard it's pretty bad in Kyoto," she said about the overtourism complaints. "Japan has so many social rules, right? And people are not used to it. So I think the Japanese government should help on educating foreigners." In the first six months of 2024, South Korean visitors to Japan topped the list of foreign tourists by country at 4.4 million. China was second at around three million, five times as many as in the same period last year. Visitors from Taiwan were in third place and the United States in fourth. Kishida's government on Friday presented plans to encourage luxury hotels to come to Japan's 35 national parks, Nippon TV and other local media reported. The prime minister also instructed ministers to take emergency measures to address a jet fuel shortage, partly caused by surging demand from tourists, that has prevented airlines from increasing flights. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan welcomes 1 million more tourists, setting new half-year record post-pandemic

At least 14 Japanese students from a high school were rushed to a hospital on Tuesday after eating extra spicy "R 18+" curry-flavoured potato chips during their morning break. The chips were made with an extremely hot&nbsp;variety of chilli peppers originally from northeastern India.&nbsp;

Media reports mentioned that one male student brought the crisps to school and around 30 students ate them. He loved the "super spicy" chips when he first tried them.&nbsp;

The student said the chips were purchased by his older brother and he brought them to the school "just for fun".&nbsp;

The students who were admitted to the hospital said their mouth and stomach were in pain after consuming the snack, but were conscious and treated for minor symptoms.&nbsp;

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The maker of the snack, Isoyama Corp, issued an apology in an online statement and wished the students a speedy recovery.&nbsp;

On its website, the manufacturer wrote on July 17: "We apologise to our customers and other concerned parties for causing a great deal of inconvenience."&nbsp;

The snack called "R18 Curry Chips" comes with a warning for those under the age of 18, and those with high blood pressure and a weak stomach, to not consume it.&nbsp;

It further advises consumers to not consume the snack all on one's own, since it could cause diarrhoea.&nbsp;

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As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Tae Tsutaki, who is an IT company worker, said, "It (the package of snack) forbids those below 18 years old from eating it, so they (high school kids) shouldn't have eaten it."

"I saw on the news that one of the high school students apologised. I'm glad nobody died, I think they should be more cautious in the future," Tae added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Legislative Assembly in Yamagata passes new laughter law

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<h2>What do we know about the spicy chilly?&nbsp;</h2>

Local media reports mentioned that the chips are spiced with the ghost pepper, also known as 'Bhoot Jolokia', which is said to be at least 200 times spicier than Tabasco sauce. It is an interspecific hybrid chilli pepper cultivated in Northeast India.&nbsp;

'Bhoot Jolokia' is an extremely pungent pepper and it was registered in the Guinness World Records from 2007 to 2011 as the "world's hottest".&nbsp;

'Bhoot Jolokia' has a high Scoville Heat Units (SHU) rating, which is around 1,000,000 SHU. If we compare, a regular jalapeño pepper is around 2,500 to 8,000 SHU.&nbsp;

Besides being spicy, 'Bhoot Jolokia' is packed with potential health benefits as it is loaded with vitamins, especially vitamin C. It also supports the immune system and skin health.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At least 14 Japanese students from a high school were rushed to a hospital on Tuesday after eating extra spicy "R 18+" curry-flavoured potato chips during their morning break.

At least 14 Japanese students from a high school were rushed to a hospital on Tuesday after eating extra spicy "R 18+" curry-flavoured potato chips during their morning break. The chips were made with an extremely hot variety of chilli peppers originally from northeastern India. Media reports mentioned that one male student brought the crisps to school and around 30 students ate them. He loved the "super spicy" chips when he first tried them. The student said the chips were purchased by his older brother and he brought them to the school "just for fun". The students who were admitted to the hospital said their mouth and stomach were in pain after consuming the snack, but were conscious and treated for minor symptoms. Also read: Mass fish die-off reported from Sao Paulo river in major environmental disaster The maker of the snack, Isoyama Corp, issued an apology in an online statement and wished the students a speedy recovery. On its website, the manufacturer wrote on July 17: "We apologise to our customers and other concerned parties for causing a great deal of inconvenience." The snack called "R18 Curry Chips" comes with a warning for those under the age of 18, and those with high blood pressure and a weak stomach, to not consume it. It further advises consumers to not consume the snack all on one's own, since it could cause diarrhoea. Also read: Italian journalist to pay PM Giorgia Meloni $5,500 for mocking her height As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Tae Tsutaki, who is an IT company worker, said, "It (the package of snack) forbids those below 18 years old from eating it, so they (high school kids) shouldn't have eaten it." "I saw on the news that one of the high school students apologised. I'm glad nobody died, I think they should be more cautious in the future," Tae added. Watch: Japan: Legislative Assembly in Yamagata passes new laughter law × What do we know about the spicy chilly? Local media reports mentioned that the chips are spiced with the ghost pepper, also known as 'Bhoot Jolokia', which is said to be at least 200 times spicier than Tabasco sauce. It is an interspecific hybrid chilli pepper cultivated in Northeast India. 'Bhoot Jolokia' is an extremely pungent pepper and it was registered in the Guinness World Records from 2007 to 2011 as the "world's hottest". 'Bhoot Jolokia' has a high Scoville Heat Units (SHU) rating, which is around 1,000,000 SHU. If we compare, a regular jalapeño pepper is around 2,500 to 8,000 SHU. Besides being spicy, 'Bhoot Jolokia' is packed with potential health benefits as it is loaded with vitamins, especially vitamin C. It also supports the immune system and skin health. (With inputs from agencies)

'Bhoot Jolokia': Chips made with this Indian pepper sent 14 students in Japan to hospital

Japan footballer Kaishu Sano has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman, local media reported on Wednesday. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder and two friends, also in their 20s, allegedly sexually assaulted the woman at a hotel in Tokyo on Sunday, Japan public broadcaster NHK and other media reported, citing unnamed police sources.

After responding to a call immediately after the alleged assault from the woman, reported to be in her 30s, police arrested the three near the hotel, the reports said.

Contacted by AFP, Japanese police were not immediately available for comment. Sano, who has made four appearances for Japan and was part of the squad at this year's Asian Cup in Qatar, signed for German Bundesliga club Mainz earlier this month from Kashima Antlers.

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Kashima said it was "very concerned about the matter regarding its former player" in a statement. "Due to the nature of the matter, the club is unable to confirm further details but will keep a close eye on the situation," the J.League club said.

Japan's Junya Ito, who plays for French side Reims, left the Asian Cup in February after Japanese police said he was under investigation for an alleged sexual assault in Osaka last year. Ito denied the allegation and is suing his accusers for 200 million yen ($1.3 million) in damages.

Japan footballer Kaishu Sano has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman, local media reported on Wednesday. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder and two friends, also in their 20s, allegedly sexually assaulted the woman at a hotel in Tokyo on Sunday, Japan public broadcaster NHK and other media reported, citing unnamed police sources.

Japan footballer Kaishu Sano has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman, local media reported on Wednesday. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder and two friends, also in their 20s, allegedly sexually assaulted the woman at a hotel in Tokyo on Sunday, Japan public broadcaster NHK and other media reported, citing unnamed police sources. After responding to a call immediately after the alleged assault from the woman, reported to be in her 30s, police arrested the three near the hotel, the reports said. Contacted by AFP, Japanese police were not immediately available for comment. Sano, who has made four appearances for Japan and was part of the squad at this year's Asian Cup in Qatar, signed for German Bundesliga club Mainz earlier this month from Kashima Antlers. Also read: Lionel Messi to miss two Inter Miami matches after getting injured in Copa America final Kashima said it was "very concerned about the matter regarding its former player" in a statement. "Due to the nature of the matter, the club is unable to confirm further details but will keep a close eye on the situation," the J.League club said. Japan's Junya Ito, who plays for French side Reims, left the Asian Cup in February after Japanese police said he was under investigation for an alleged sexual assault in Osaka last year. Ito denied the allegation and is suing his accusers for 200 million yen ($1.3 million) in damages.

Japan's young footballer Kaishu Sano arrested for alleged sex assault, claim reports

14 high school students in Tokyo were sent to the hospital on Tuesday after consuming "extremely spicy" potato chips. WION tells you more in this report.

14 Tokyo students hospitalised over spicy snack

The United States Navy has decided to assign a squadron of fifth generation F-35 fighter-bombers to the USS George Washington aircraft carrier, stationed in Japan. Watch in for more details!

US to deploy F-35 squadron to Japan for new carrier George Washington

The United States Navy has announced the deployment of F-35C Lightning II fighters and CMV-22B Osprey aircraft to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni in Japan. This decision, detailed in a press release on July 15, aims to replace the aging squadrons of F/A-18 Super Hornets and C-2A Greyhound transports currently stationed at the base.

US Navy to replace F/A -18 hornets with F-35C in Japan

In a very strange and shocking election campaign, an “entrepreneur” - who has filed a nomination for the position of governor in Tokyo, took off her shirt on a recorded video and asked the people if they found her "sexy" enough to give votes to her.&nbsp;

In the bizarre promotion of herself, the candidate Airi Uchino - who belonged to the populist right-wing NHK Party - was sitting across a table. She was wearing a button-up shirt as she spoke in a high-pitched, anime-style voice to the Japanese voters.

“I’m so cute; please watch my campaign broadcast,” the candidate said while smiling coyly in the video shared on X on June 27. She added, “Do you think I’m sexy?”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-lgbtq-couples-are-opting-for-photo-weddings-amid-same-sex-marriage-ban-739585">Japanese LGBTQ couples opting for ‘photo weddings’ amid same-sex marriage ban</a>

She then appealed to the voters to follow her on social media and said that she would respond to each one of them individually before she removed her shirt and was then seen wearing only a tight, skin-coloured tube top. She also posed in a way that made her appear topless on camera.

The woman, who is a cocktail bar owner, removed her glasses and delivered the entire speech in a skimpy outfit. The video soon went viral and garnered millions of views.

<h2>Here's how netizens reacted to the viral video</h2>

The people were not really happy to see her appeal for votes by stripping her shirt.

''While it is true that people strive to stand out, and our society's obsession with appearances often rewards outlandish behaviour, nevertheless, individuals who lack substance will inevitably be unmasked by the passage of time," said one user.

''At this point, they should change the rules… the race is turning into a farce and distracting people from the real issues. Democracy and all but this is not it," commented another.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan’s Yamagata passes rule urging people to laugh daily

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japans-yamagata-passes-rule-urging-people-to-laugh-daily-740047/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We’ve ended up living in a world where those who do something unusual win. However, a person without substance will always be exposed,” wrote a critic on X.

“No matter how much you talk about freedom of speech in elections, this goes against public welfare," another&nbsp;user said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a very strange and shocking election campaign, an “entrepreneur” - who has filed a nomination for the position of governor in Tokyo, took off her shirt on a recorded video and asked the people if they found her "sexy" enough to give votes to her.

In a very strange and shocking election campaign, an “entrepreneur” - who has filed a nomination for the position of governor in Tokyo, took off her shirt on a recorded video and asked the people if they found her "sexy" enough to give votes to her. In the bizarre promotion of herself, the candidate Airi Uchino - who belonged to the populist right-wing NHK Party - was sitting across a table. She was wearing a button-up shirt as she spoke in a high-pitched, anime-style voice to the Japanese voters. “I’m so cute; please watch my campaign broadcast,” the candidate said while smiling coyly in the video shared on X on June 27. She added, “Do you think I’m sexy?” Also Read: Japanese LGBTQ couples opting for ‘photo weddings’ amid same-sex marriage ban She then appealed to the voters to follow her on social media and said that she would respond to each one of them individually before she removed her shirt and was then seen wearing only a tight, skin-coloured tube top. She also posed in a way that made her appear topless on camera. The woman, who is a cocktail bar owner, removed her glasses and delivered the entire speech in a skimpy outfit. The video soon went viral and garnered millions of views. Here's how netizens reacted to the viral video The people were not really happy to see her appeal for votes by stripping her shirt. ''While it is true that people strive to stand out, and our society's obsession with appearances often rewards outlandish behaviour, nevertheless, individuals who lack substance will inevitably be unmasked by the passage of time," said one user. ''At this point, they should change the rules… the race is turning into a farce and distracting people from the real issues. Democracy and all but this is not it," commented another. Watch: Japan’s Yamagata passes rule urging people to laugh daily “We’ve ended up living in a world where those who do something unusual win. However, a person without substance will always be exposed,” wrote a critic on X. “No matter how much you talk about freedom of speech in elections, this goes against public welfare," another user said. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's election candidate takes off her shirt in video to appeal for votes, asks if she is 'sexy'

Now, we look at how markets opened this morning after investors fled US Tech Megacaps, which had been the engine that drove the bull market on Wall Street. Asian technology stocks slumped on Friday, mirroring Wall Street's losses.

Yen's surge against the dollar weighs on Japanese shares

Headlines of the hour: - Biden defiant despite NATO gaffes - Clashes at Canada's McGill University - Japan Navy Chief quits amid security scandal - China's 'Hyperbola 1' launch fails - Massive blaze at Philadelphia apartment - UK sets bold growth targets

Japan Navy Chief quits | China's 'Hyperbola 1' launch fails | WION Headlines

Japan's Yamagata prefecture has introduced a new rule requiring citizens to laugh at least once daily. A study from Yamagata University found that people who laugh more are less susceptible to heart attacks.

Gravitas | Japan’s Yamagata passes rule urging people to laugh daily

The local government in Japan’s Yamagata prefecture has just passed an ordinance calling on residents to laugh at least once every day to promote better physical and mental health, although the new law has gone down like a bad joke in some quarters.

Japan: Legislative Assembly in Yamagata passes new laughter law

A woman who went swimming off at a beach in Japan, only to be swept out to sea, has been rescued about 80 kilometres off the coast after 36 hours, according to a report by news agency&nbsp;AFP.

The incident transpired at the&nbsp;Shirahama Ohama beach in the&nbsp;Shizuoka prefecture where a 21-year-old Chinese woman had been swimming around 7:30 pm local time on Monday (Jul 8) with a friend. According to the Coast Guard, the woman was buoyed by a rubber ring when she was swept across by the strong currents.&nbsp;

The panicked friend set the alarm bells ringing by informing the nearby convenience store.&nbsp;“It was around 7.55 pm on July 8 when we received the information after the woman’s friend reported to a nearby convenience store that she was missing,” a local Japan Coast Guard official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dramatic-video-shows-rescue-from-new-zealand-boat-sinking-that-killed-four-464641">Watch | Dramatic video shows rescue from New Zealand boat sinking that killed four</a>

The Coast Guard pressed its resources into action to retrieve the woman. However, it was a cargo ship that discovered the unnamed woman, floating off the southern tip of Chiba's Boso peninsula around 7:48 am on Wednesday (Jul 10) - almost two days after she went missing.&nbsp;

Upon spotting the woman, the cargo ship crew members contacted a nearby tanker and jumped into the sea to rescue her.

“There are 80km in a straight line [between the beach and rescue spot] but it is assumed she drifted for an even greater distance,” the official said.

After being rescued, the woman was taken to a hospital where she fortunately did not need to be admitted. Doctors said although she was dehydrated, it was not life-threatening and that she remained clear-headed.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/How%20discovery%20of%20explicit%20material%20on%20a%20phone%20in%20Sydney%20led%20to%20rescue%20%20of%2016%20abused%20children%20in%20Philippines">Also read |&nbsp;How discovery of explicit material on a phone in Sydney led to rescue &nbsp;of 16 abused children in Philippines</a>

<h2>Similar rescue last year</h2>

Last year, in a similar rescue operation, an Australian sailor was saved alongside his dog in the Pacific Ocean, after being stranded for months. They both survived by eating raw fish and drinking rainwater.&nbsp;

51-year-old&nbsp;Shaddock, hailing from Sydney had embarked upon a 6,000 km-long (3,728-mile) trip to French Polynesia from Mexico's La Paz alongside his dog Bella when the rough weather damaged their boat - leaving them stranded in the middle of nowhere.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A woman who went swimming off at a beach in Japan, only to be swept out to sea, has been rescued about 80 kilometres off the coast after 36 hours, according to a report by news agency AFP.

A woman who went swimming off at a beach in Japan, only to be swept out to sea, has been rescued about 80 kilometres off the coast after 36 hours, according to a report by news agency AFP. The incident transpired at the Shirahama Ohama beach in the Shizuoka prefecture where a 21-year-old Chinese woman had been swimming around 7:30 pm local time on Monday (Jul 8) with a friend. According to the Coast Guard, the woman was buoyed by a rubber ring when she was swept across by the strong currents. The panicked friend set the alarm bells ringing by informing the nearby convenience store. “It was around 7.55 pm on July 8 when we received the information after the woman’s friend reported to a nearby convenience store that she was missing,” a local Japan Coast Guard official said. Watch | Dramatic video shows rescue from New Zealand boat sinking that killed four The Coast Guard pressed its resources into action to retrieve the woman. However, it was a cargo ship that discovered the unnamed woman, floating off the southern tip of Chiba's Boso peninsula around 7:48 am on Wednesday (Jul 10) - almost two days after she went missing. Upon spotting the woman, the cargo ship crew members contacted a nearby tanker and jumped into the sea to rescue her. “There are 80km in a straight line [between the beach and rescue spot] but it is assumed she drifted for an even greater distance,” the official said. After being rescued, the woman was taken to a hospital where she fortunately did not need to be admitted. Doctors said although she was dehydrated, it was not life-threatening and that she remained clear-headed. Also read | How discovery of explicit material on a phone in Sydney led to rescue of 16 abused children in Philippines Similar rescue last year Last year, in a similar rescue operation, an Australian sailor was saved alongside his dog in the Pacific Ocean, after being stranded for months. They both survived by eating raw fish and drinking rainwater. 51-year-old Shaddock, hailing from Sydney had embarked upon a 6,000 km-long (3,728-mile) trip to French Polynesia from Mexico's La Paz alongside his dog Bella when the rough weather damaged their boat - leaving them stranded in the middle of nowhere. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman floating in ocean for two days rescued 80km off Japan coast

Japanese workers are feeling the pinch. Real wages, which account for inflation, have fallen for a record 26th consecutive month. This is despite a positive trend in nominal wages, the actual amount workers take home.

Japan's wages fall as prices rise

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