Massive earthquake jolts Japan; the country was hit by 155 aftershocks since Monday. Residents flee some coastal areas. Over 1,00,000 residents ordered to evacuate. Watch the video to know more!

Japan Earthquake: Death toll climbs to 48, no damage to nuclear reactors

A Japan Airlines plane burst into flames after landing at Tokyo’s Haneda airport on Tuesday, national broadcaster NHK reported, adding that all those on board were safely evacuated.

Japan: Plane catches fire on Tokyo Haneda airport runway

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 hit north-central Japan on January 1. Houses were overturned and roads were damaged or cut in Ishikawa Prefecture's Kanazawa city. According to reports, Earthquake took the life of more than 20 people.

Japan Earthquake: Houses & roads collapse from quake in Ishikawa Prefecture's Kanzawa

A Japan Airlines plane burst into flames after landing at Tokyo’s Haneda airport on Tuesday, national broadcaster NHK reported, adding that all all those on board were safely evacuated.

Japan Airplane on fire, no casualties reported so far

Japan was hit by one of the deadliest earthquake on January 1. A 7.6 magnitude earthquake jolted several parts of Japan. At Nanao city in Ishikawa, a car was seen crushed under a collapsed building.

Japan Earthquake:  Home collapses on car as Earthquake jolts Japan

A day after Japan was hit by a severe earthquake of 7.6 magnitude. A new notification for Tsunami has been released by Japanese authorities.

Japan Earthquake: A new notification for Tsunami released by Japanese authorities

Japan: Magnitude 7.5 earthquake shatters New Year calm | Death toll climbs to 48

<p>A powerful earthquake of 7.6 magnitude struck central Japan on Monday (Jan 1), claiming at least four lives, demolishing buildings, and causing widespread power outages. The quake&nbsp;led to waves along Japan's west coast and South Korea, triggering tsunami warnings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the&nbsp;National Police Agency, two people have suffered cardiac arrest in Nanao city.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed search and rescue teams to prioritise saving lives, despite the challenging access to affected areas. The earthquake, situated in an area with simmering seismic activity, raises concerns about potential aftershocks.</p>

<p>President Joe Biden extended US&nbsp;support to Japan following the devastating earthquake.</p>

<p>"As close allies, the United States and&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;share a deep bond of friendship that unites our people," Biden said in a statement.</p>

<p>"My administration is in touch with Japanese officials, and the United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Japanese people," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Japan Meteorological Agency issued tsunami warnings for Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama prefectures. Although initially a major tsunami warning for Ishikawa was issued, it was later downgraded.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Kishida urged residents in potential tsunami areas to evacuate promptly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I urge people in areas where tsunamis are expected to evacuate as soon as possible," Kishida said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-earthquake-jolts-japan-indian-embassy-sets-up-emergency-control-room-post-675566">Also read |&nbsp;Powerful earthquake jolts Japan: Indian Embassy sets up emergency control room post</a></p>

<h2><strong>Videos capture panic&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>People crouched on the ground as the ceiling of a subway station in Kanazawa, in the Ishikawa Prefecture started to shake as the earthquake hit.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you stand with the people of Japan , during this tough time in which they are experiencing a Tsunami and earthquake ; U wont pass without liking this tweet ❤<br />
<br />
May God protect the children mothers &amp; people of Japan from the Tsunami 💕<br />
<br />
Prayers 🙏😢<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Japan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Japan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Japan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Japan</a> <a href="https://t.co/A3lF7EF854">pic.twitter.com/A3lF7EF854</a></p>
— Ramsa Chaudhary (@Ramkishor_jaat_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ramkishor_jaat_/status/1741843442668581088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Video shared on social media showed some people trying to run away as the electronic information board shook above them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An eyewitness in the central&nbsp;Japanese city of Nagano captured shelves and items inside a grocery&nbsp;store shaking as the&nbsp;earthquake&nbsp;struck.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The jolt was massive it shakes everything in Japan a situation of one of grocery store in Japan <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Japan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Japan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JapanEarthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JapanEarthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B6%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B4?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#สึนามิ</a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Terremoto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Terremoto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tsunami</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E6%B4%A5%E6%B3%A2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#津波</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E6%B4%A5%E6%B3%A2%E8%AD%A6%E5%A0%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#津波警報</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E5%9C%B0%E9%9C%87?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#地震</a> <a href="https://t.co/nj1xdnERop">pic.twitter.com/nj1xdnERop</a></p>
— Syed Shayan (@lazysamx) <a href="https://twitter.com/lazysamx/status/1741837171101945973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Images that are circulating around show&nbsp;collapsed buildings in Wajima, with reports of around 30 structures affected.</p>

<p>Tokyo, situated 500 km away, experienced building jolts. Over 36,000 households lost power, telecoms reported outages, and transportation systems, including trains and expressways, faced disruptions. Air travel was affected, with ANA and Japan Airlines diverting and cancelling flights.</p>

<h2><strong>Nuclear industry concerns</strong></h2>

<p>The earthquake raised concerns about Japan's nuclear industry, given the sensitive context following the 2011 Fukushima disaster.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch this report</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-earthquake-76-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-japan-triggering-tsunami-warning-675675/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Despite the quake's proximity to Hokuriku's Shika nuclear plant, which had halted reactors for inspection, Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority reported no irregularities in the active reactors.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A powerful earthquake of 7.6 magnitude struck central Japan on Monday (Jan 1), claiming at least four lives, demolishing buildings, and causing widespread power outages.

A powerful earthquake of 7.6 magnitude struck central Japan on Monday (Jan 1), claiming at least four lives, demolishing buildings, and causing widespread power outages. The quake led to waves along Japan's west coast and South Korea, triggering tsunami warnings. According to the National Police Agency, two people have suffered cardiac arrest in Nanao city. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed search and rescue teams to prioritise saving lives, despite the challenging access to affected areas. The earthquake, situated in an area with simmering seismic activity, raises concerns about potential aftershocks. President Joe Biden extended US support to Japan following the devastating earthquake. "As close allies, the United States and Japan share a deep bond of friendship that unites our people," Biden said in a statement. "My administration is in touch with Japanese officials, and the United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Japanese people," he added. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued tsunami warnings for Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama prefectures. Although initially a major tsunami warning for Ishikawa was issued, it was later downgraded. Prime Minister Kishida urged residents in potential tsunami areas to evacuate promptly. "I urge people in areas where tsunamis are expected to evacuate as soon as possible," Kishida said. Also read | Powerful earthquake jolts Japan: Indian Embassy sets up emergency control room post Videos capture panic People crouched on the ground as the ceiling of a subway station in Kanazawa, in the Ishikawa Prefecture started to shake as the earthquake hit. If you stand with the people of Japan , during this tough time in which they are experiencing a Tsunami and earthquake ; U wont pass without liking this tweet ❤ May God protect the children mothers & people of Japan from the Tsunami 💕 Prayers 🙏😢#Japan #earthquake #Japan pic.twitter.com/A3lF7EF854 — Ramsa Chaudhary (@Ramkishor_jaat_) January 1, 2024 × Video shared on social media showed some people trying to run away as the electronic information board shook above them. An eyewitness in the central Japanese city of Nagano captured shelves and items inside a grocery store shaking as the earthquake struck. The jolt was massive it shakes everything in Japan a situation of one of grocery store in Japan #earthquake #Japan #JapanEarthquake #สึนามิ #Terremoto #Tsunami#津波 #津波警報 #地震 pic.twitter.com/nj1xdnERop — Syed Shayan (@lazysamx) January 1, 2024 × Images that are circulating around show collapsed buildings in Wajima, with reports of around 30 structures affected. Tokyo, situated 500 km away, experienced building jolts. Over 36,000 households lost power, telecoms reported outages, and transportation systems, including trains and expressways, faced disruptions. Air travel was affected, with ANA and Japan Airlines diverting and cancelling flights. Nuclear industry concerns The earthquake raised concerns about Japan's nuclear industry, given the sensitive context following the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Also watch this report Despite the quake's proximity to Hokuriku's Shika nuclear plant, which had halted reactors for inspection, Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority reported no irregularities in the active reactors. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan earthquake kills four, viral videos show nationwide panic

Japan hit by at least 155 earthquakes since Monday, kills at least 30 people | World News | WION

Japan Earthquake: No damage to nuclear plants | Death toll rises to 30

Japan on high alert after Tsunami warnings | Death toll rises to 20 | Japan Earthquake

Will there be a full-blown war in the South China Sea in 2024? Xi Jinping sounded a warning to Taiwan ahead of Jan 13 polls. Analysts are predicting a conflict in the South China Sea this year. The Philippines, and Japan are preparing for the worst.

Gravitas | A full-blown war in South China Sea in 2024? | Taiwan enters a 12-day crucial period

Japan was jolted by a 7.6 magnitude earthquake on January 1st, 2024, with its epicentre in the Noto region. The quake triggered fires, building collapses, and violent shaking of trains. Eyewitness videos captured the moment high waves hit Japan's coast, raising fears of a tsunami. The impact was felt beyond Japan's borders, with tsunami warnings issued in South Korea and Russia's Far Eastern cities.

Japan Earthquake: 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake strikes Japan, triggering tsunami warning

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 hit north central Japan on the first day of New Year. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning along the western coastal regions of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama prefectures.

Japan earthquake: Major tsunami hits Sea of Japan coast

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: A massive earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 hit central Japan on Monday, triggering a tsunami warning and advisories for residents to evacuate. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama.

Tsunami strikes Japan's west coast after 7.4 magnitude quake

<p>A 7.6&nbsp;magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting&nbsp;officials to issue&nbsp;tsunami warning.&nbsp;Japan's national broadcaster NHK&nbsp;has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have&nbsp;already hit the Japanese shores.&nbsp;The official alert urged people to move to higher grounds.</p>

<p>"All residents must evacuate immediately to higher ground," national broadcaster NHK said after the quake hit the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture around 4:10 pm (0710 GMT).</p>

<p>NHK reported that a 5-metre tsunami has already hit Noto, while Niigata, Sado Island and Toyama have been lashed by tsunami waves of 3 metres in height. Warnings for other regions predict tsunami waves of up to&nbsp;1 metre high.</p>

<p>United States&nbsp;Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Center has said that Hazardous tsunami waves are possible within 300 km range of the epicentre of the earthquake.</p>

<p>Japan Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted that that the tsunami waves could reach up to five metres high.</p>

<p>The latest tsunamis have&nbsp;refreshed memories of devastation in 2011 when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake had triggered tsunami wave leading&nbsp;to nuclear meltdown&nbsp;at the Fukushima&nbsp;plant.</p>

<p>NHK has reported that Hokuriku Electric Power was checking for any irregularities at the nuclear power plants it operates.</p>

<p>According to Reuters,&nbsp;a spokesperson of Kansai Electric Power&nbsp;said that though there were no abnormalities at nuclear plants operated by the company, it was closely monitoring the situation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Japanese government has said that no abnormalities have been reported from the nuclear power plants in the country&nbsp;so far.</p>

<p><em>(With input from agencies)</em></p>


A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting officials to issue tsunami warning. Japan's national broadcaster NHK has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have already hit the Japanese shores.

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting officials to issue tsunami warning. Japan's national broadcaster NHK has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have already hit the Japanese shores. The official alert urged people to move to higher grounds. "All residents must evacuate immediately to higher ground," national broadcaster NHK said after the quake hit the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture around 4:10 pm (0710 GMT). NHK reported that a 5-metre tsunami has already hit Noto, while Niigata, Sado Island and Toyama have been lashed by tsunami waves of 3 metres in height. Warnings for other regions predict tsunami waves of up to 1 metre high. United States Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Center has said that Hazardous tsunami waves are possible within 300 km range of the epicentre of the earthquake. Japan Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted that that the tsunami waves could reach up to five metres high. The latest tsunamis have refreshed memories of devastation in 2011 when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake had triggered tsunami wave leading to nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima plant. NHK has reported that Hokuriku Electric Power was checking for any irregularities at the nuclear power plants it operates. According to Reuters, a spokesperson of Kansai Electric Power said that though there were no abnormalities at nuclear plants operated by the company, it was closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, the Japanese government has said that no abnormalities have been reported from the nuclear power plants in the country so far. (With input from agencies)

Tsunami waves hit Japan after powerful 7.6 earthquake

A massive earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 hit central Japan on Monday, triggering a tsunami warning and advisories for residents to evacuate. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama.

Massive earthquake jolts Japan, Tsunami warning issued

Former liberal democratic party lawmaker Mito Kakizawa has been arrested over allegations of vote-buying in a Tokyo ward mayoral election in April.

Japan: Lawmaker arrested over vote-buying allegations | Kakizawa Money Scandal

China's defence ministry on Thursday urged the Asia-Pacific to be on high alert as the United States steps up forward military deployment in the region, after reports of a U.S. plan to revive a Pacific airfield that launched atomic bombings of Japan.

China urges Asia-Pacific to be on high alert as US plans to reclaim Tinian airfield | WION

Japanese lawmaker Mito Kakizawa arrested over vote-buying allegations

<p>India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28). So far, no casualties have been reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency further added that no tsunami warning has been issued as yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency said that the depth of the earthquake was 10 kilometres. It occurred at 2:45 pm (IST) and the epicentre was found to be at a latitude of 44.36 and a longitude of 149.23.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earthquake of Magnitude:6.3, Occurred on 28-12-2023, 14:45:12 IST, Lat: 44.36 &amp; Long: 149.23, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Kuril Islands, Japan for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs">https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://t.co/rFxNB31JgO">pic.twitter.com/rFxNB31JgO</a></p>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1740305187196252352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>The story will be updated with details when available&nbsp;</em></p>


India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28).

India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28). So far, no casualties have been reported. The agency further added that no tsunami warning has been issued as yet. The agency said that the depth of the earthquake was 10 kilometres. It occurred at 2:45 pm (IST) and the epicentre was found to be at a latitude of 44.36 and a longitude of 149.23. Earthquake of Magnitude:6.3, Occurred on 28-12-2023, 14:45:12 IST, Lat: 44.36 & Long: 149.23, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Kuril Islands, Japan for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs@Dr_Mishra1966 @KirenRijiju @ndmaindia @Indiametdept pic.twitter.com/rFxNB31JgO — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) December 28, 2023 × The story will be updated with details when available

Earthquake of magnitude 6.3 strikes Japan's Kuril Islands

Japan's SLIM lander entered the moon's orbit. As Japan strives to become the fifth country in the world to achieve a successful lunar landing. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon is slated to execute the landing on the lunar surface on January 20.

Japan's 'SLIM' lunar craft in Moon's orbit

<p>The&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;government&nbsp;will&nbsp;freeze&nbsp;assets&nbsp;and&nbsp;impose&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on&nbsp;payments&nbsp;and&nbsp;capital&nbsp;transactions&nbsp;on&nbsp;three&nbsp;senior&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;members,&nbsp;Chief&nbsp;Cabinet&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Yoshimasa&nbsp;Hayashi&nbsp;said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday (Dec 26).</p>

<p>The&nbsp;three&nbsp;individuals&nbsp;were&nbsp;believed&nbsp;to be&nbsp;involved&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Oct.&nbsp;7&nbsp;attack&nbsp;by&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;on&nbsp;Israel&nbsp; and&nbsp;in a&nbsp;position&nbsp;to&nbsp;use&nbsp;funds&nbsp;to&nbsp;finance&nbsp;such&nbsp;terrorist&nbsp;activities, the&nbsp;top&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp; government&nbsp;spokesperson&nbsp;said.</p>


The Japanese government will freeze assets and impose sanctions on payments and capital transactions on three senior Hamas members, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said on Tuesday (Dec 26).

The Japanese government will freeze assets and impose sanctions on payments and capital transactions on three senior Hamas members, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said on Tuesday (Dec 26). The three individuals were believed to be involved in the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel and in a position to use funds to finance such terrorist activities, the top Japanese government spokesperson said.

Japan to impose sanctions on three senior Hamas members

<p>Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) entered the Moon's orbit on Christmas Day. This has taken Japan close to its first successful landing on Earth's only satellite. If Japan succeeds, it will be fifth country in the world to land a probe on the lunar surface. Till date, United States, Russia, China and India have been successful in such an attempt.</p>

<p>Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said on Monday that SLIM "successfully entered the moon's orbit at 04:51 pm Japan time" (0751 GMT)"</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Japan's moon lander 'Slim' enters Lunar orbit | Japan a step closer to becoming 5th nation on moon</strong></p>

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<p>"Its trajectory shift was achieved as originally planned, and there is nothing out of the ordinary about the probe's conditions," the agency said.</p>

<h2><strong>What next for Japan's Moon mission?</strong></h2>

<p>The lander, which has now been inserted in the lunar orbit, is slated to begin on January 20, at around 12 am Japan time. JAXA has said that the lander will land 20 minutes later.</p>

<p>JAXA's Moon lander was lifted-off into space by an H-IIA rocket. The lift-off took place in the month of September from southern Japanese island of Tanegashima. The lift-off took place after three postponements due weather-related reasons.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sex-and-pregnancy-in-space-might-not-be-possible-with-existing-technologies-say-experts-673973">Sex in space? It might still be a distant possibility, and so is pregnancy</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier this month, JAXA said that the mission will be an "unprecedentedly high precision landing" on the Moon. Interestingly, the lander has a spherical probe that was developed in association with a toy company. The probe is slightly bigger than a tennis ball. It is capable of changing its shape in order to move on the lunar surface.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-begins-mission-to-detect-god-of-chaos-asteroid-before-it-hits-earths-orbit-673950">NASA trying to intercept 'God of Chaos' asteroid which will come terrifyingly close to Earth in 2029</a></strong></p>

<p>At the time of landing, JAXA is aiming for margin of error of under 100 metres. This when compared to error margins of "a few or 10-plus kilometres" kept by other countries is quite remarkable. JAXA has said that its margin of error was once thought impossible and is culmination of decades of effort by researchers.</p>

<p>"Gone are the days when merely exploring 'somewhere on the moon' was desired," said Shinichiro Sakai, JAXA's SLIM project manager earlier this month.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) entered the Moon's orbit on Christmas Day. This has taken Japan close to its first successful landing on Earth's only satellite.

Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) entered the Moon's orbit on Christmas Day. This has taken Japan close to its first successful landing on Earth's only satellite. If Japan succeeds, it will be fifth country in the world to land a probe on the lunar surface. Till date, United States, Russia, China and India have been successful in such an attempt. Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said on Monday that SLIM "successfully entered the moon's orbit at 04:51 pm Japan time" (0751 GMT)" Watch | Japan's moon lander 'Slim' enters Lunar orbit | Japan a step closer to becoming 5th nation on moon × "Its trajectory shift was achieved as originally planned, and there is nothing out of the ordinary about the probe's conditions," the agency said. What next for Japan's Moon mission? The lander, which has now been inserted in the lunar orbit, is slated to begin on January 20, at around 12 am Japan time. JAXA has said that the lander will land 20 minutes later. JAXA's Moon lander was lifted-off into space by an H-IIA rocket. The lift-off took place in the month of September from southern Japanese island of Tanegashima. The lift-off took place after three postponements due weather-related reasons. Also Read | Sex in space? It might still be a distant possibility, and so is pregnancy Earlier this month, JAXA said that the mission will be an "unprecedentedly high precision landing" on the Moon. Interestingly, the lander has a spherical probe that was developed in association with a toy company. The probe is slightly bigger than a tennis ball. It is capable of changing its shape in order to move on the lunar surface. Also Read | NASA trying to intercept 'God of Chaos' asteroid which will come terrifyingly close to Earth in 2029 At the time of landing, JAXA is aiming for margin of error of under 100 metres. This when compared to error margins of "a few or 10-plus kilometres" kept by other countries is quite remarkable. JAXA has said that its margin of error was once thought impossible and is culmination of decades of effort by researchers. "Gone are the days when merely exploring 'somewhere on the moon' was desired," said Shinichiro Sakai, JAXA's SLIM project manager earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's probe enters lunar orbit, what happens now?

<p>Luxury Japanese department store Takashimaya issues an apology after delivering 807 collapsed strawberry Christmas cakes out of around 2,900, causing a social media uproar and disappointment among customers.</p>

<p>Senior managing director Kazuhisa Yokoyama expressed regret&nbsp;at a Tokyo news conference, acknowledging the store's responsibility, stating they had "betrayed the expectations of many."</p>

<p>Takashimaya said&nbsp;that the cakes, made by Win's Ark in Saitama, were delivered by Yamato Transport. Despite an internal investigation, the cause of the cakes arriving in a collapsed state remains undetermined.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/airbus-atlantics-christmas-dinner-turns-into-health-crisis-700-staff-members-fall-sick-after-eating-meal-672724">Also read |&nbsp;Airbus Atlantic's Christmas dinner turns into 'health crisis': 700 staff members fall sick after eating meal</a></p>

<h2><strong>Cultural significance of Christmas in Japan</strong></h2>

<p>Though only one per cent&nbsp;of Japan's population identifies as Christians, Christmas is widely celebrated with gift exchanges and festive meals.</p>

<p>The red and white colours of a strawberry cake symbolise celebration in Japanese culture, where KFC fried chicken is also a popular Christmas Eve tradition.</p>

<p>Takashimaya's strawberry shortcake, priced at 5,400 yen ($38; £29), features layers of chiffon and fresh strawberries covered in meticulously piped white icing, resembling a frilled dress hem.</p>

<p>Customers shared disappointment on social media with photos of the mishandled cakes, depicting sliced strawberries sliding off melted icing and disrupted chiffon layers. One post gains 16.1 million views on X, formerly Twitter, showing an attempt to salvage the collapsed cake with fruits and chocolate sprinkles.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: King Charles delivers Christmas Speech</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-king-charles-delivers-christmas-speech-673538/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Despite the mishap, users on X appreciate creative efforts to redecorate the cakes. One user commends the "foundation of free creation," while another praises the wit to "shake it off and enjoy it."</p>

<p>The luxury store apologised&nbsp;on Christmas Day and reiterated the apology on Wednesday (Dec 27).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Luxury Japanese department store Takashimaya issues an apology after delivering 807 collapsed strawberry Christmas cakes out of around 2,900, causing a social media uproar and disappointment among customers.

Luxury Japanese department store Takashimaya issues an apology after delivering 807 collapsed strawberry Christmas cakes out of around 2,900, causing a social media uproar and disappointment among customers. Senior managing director Kazuhisa Yokoyama expressed regret at a Tokyo news conference, acknowledging the store's responsibility, stating they had "betrayed the expectations of many." Takashimaya said that the cakes, made by Win's Ark in Saitama, were delivered by Yamato Transport. Despite an internal investigation, the cause of the cakes arriving in a collapsed state remains undetermined. Also read | Airbus Atlantic's Christmas dinner turns into 'health crisis': 700 staff members fall sick after eating meal Cultural significance of Christmas in Japan Though only one per cent of Japan's population identifies as Christians, Christmas is widely celebrated with gift exchanges and festive meals. The red and white colours of a strawberry cake symbolise celebration in Japanese culture, where KFC fried chicken is also a popular Christmas Eve tradition. Takashimaya's strawberry shortcake, priced at 5,400 yen ($38; £29), features layers of chiffon and fresh strawberries covered in meticulously piped white icing, resembling a frilled dress hem. Customers shared disappointment on social media with photos of the mishandled cakes, depicting sliced strawberries sliding off melted icing and disrupted chiffon layers. One post gains 16.1 million views on X, formerly Twitter, showing an attempt to salvage the collapsed cake with fruits and chocolate sprinkles. Also watch | UK: King Charles delivers Christmas Speech Despite the mishap, users on X appreciate creative efforts to redecorate the cakes. One user commends the "foundation of free creation," while another praises the wit to "shake it off and enjoy it." The luxury store apologised on Christmas Day and reiterated the apology on Wednesday (Dec 27). (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Luxury chain Takashimaya apologises for 807 collapsed Christmas cakes

Japan's moon lander 'Slim' enters Lunar orbit | Japan a step closer to becoming 5th nation on moon

Japan's nuclear power regulator has lifted an operational ban it imposed on Tokyo's Kashiwazaki-kariwa power plant. This will pave the way for the world's biggest nuclear plant to resume its path towards restart. It is a positive step for Tokyo Electric Power Company or Tepco. The power plant was banned from restarting due to security issues at the facility. Japan's nuclear watchdog earlier this month said that safety issues surrounding the plant have been corrected.

Japan's Kashiwazaki-Kariwa power plant to restart

Asset managers are turning bullish on the Japanese's yen, marking the first optimistic turn since may. This change in sentiment comes as the U.S. Federal reserve and the bank of Japan are anticipated to reverse their monetary policy paths, narrowing the gap between the two. Hedge funds are also showing less pessimism towards the yen, and Morgan Stanley predicts record Japan revenue in the coming year due to the central bank's supportive policies.

Money managers bet big on the Yen for first time since May

<p>Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM), aptly nicknamed the "Moon Sniper" for its precision,&nbsp;successfully entered lunar orbit on Christmas (December 25), marking a significant step toward a historic touchdown on the lunar surface.</p>

<p>The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced on Monday (Dec 25) that SLIM has "successfully entered the moon's orbit at 04:51 pm Japan time" (0751 GMT), affirming that the probe's trajectory shift proceeded as planned, and the craft's conditions remained nominal.</p>

<p>JAXA disclosed that SLIM's descent towards the moon is scheduled to commence around 12:00 am Japan time on January 20, with the anticipated surface landing just 20 minutes later.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astrosat-detects-millisecond-bursts-from-new-magnetar-to-unveil-concealed-secrets-within-673435">AstroSat detects millisecond bursts from new magnetar, to unveil secrets concealed within</a></p>

<p>According to JAXA, SLIM's mission is poised to achieve an "unprecedentedly high precision landing" on the moon, showcasing a margin of error of under 100 metres—a level of accuracy previously deemed unattainable.</p>

<p>Shinichiro Sakai, JAXA's SLIM project manager, highlighted the evolving demands of technology, stating, "Gone are the days when merely exploring 'somewhere on the moon' was desired."</p>

<p>He emphasised on the increased need for pinpoint accuracy in targeting lunar features such as craters and rocks on the lunar surface.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-aditya-l1-sun-mission-to-conduct-critical-insertion-into-halo-orbit-673386">India's Aditya-L1 sun mission to conduct critical insertion into halo orbit</a></p>

<p>This tiny probe, slightly larger than a tennis ball, can dynamically change its shape, allowing unparalleled movement on the lunar surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drc-marks-christmas-amid-unrest-following-elections-673416">DRC marks Christmas amid unrest following elections</a></strong></p>

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<p>The precision exhibited by SLIM is raising hopes for easier sampling of lunar permafrost, bringing scientists closer to unravelling the mysteries surrounding water resources on the moon. Notably, Japan aims to join the ranks of the United States, Russia, China, and India as the fifth country to successfully land a probe on the moon.</p>

<p>While Japan has faced setbacks in lunar exploration, including the unsuccessful Omotenashi probe in the Artemis 1 mission, SLIM's mission is a renewed optimism for the country in its pursuit of lunar exploration excellence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM), aptly nicknamed the "Moon Sniper" for its precision, successfully entered lunar orbit on Christmas (December 25), marking a significant step toward a historic touchdown on the lunar surface.

Japan's Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM), aptly nicknamed the "Moon Sniper" for its precision, successfully entered lunar orbit on Christmas (December 25), marking a significant step toward a historic touchdown on the lunar surface. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced on Monday (Dec 25) that SLIM has "successfully entered the moon's orbit at 04:51 pm Japan time" (0751 GMT), affirming that the probe's trajectory shift proceeded as planned, and the craft's conditions remained nominal. JAXA disclosed that SLIM's descent towards the moon is scheduled to commence around 12:00 am Japan time on January 20, with the anticipated surface landing just 20 minutes later. Also Read | AstroSat detects millisecond bursts from new magnetar, to unveil secrets concealed within According to JAXA, SLIM's mission is poised to achieve an "unprecedentedly high precision landing" on the moon, showcasing a margin of error of under 100 metres—a level of accuracy previously deemed unattainable. Shinichiro Sakai, JAXA's SLIM project manager, highlighted the evolving demands of technology, stating, "Gone are the days when merely exploring 'somewhere on the moon' was desired." He emphasised on the increased need for pinpoint accuracy in targeting lunar features such as craters and rocks on the lunar surface. Also Read | India's Aditya-L1 sun mission to conduct critical insertion into halo orbit This tiny probe, slightly larger than a tennis ball, can dynamically change its shape, allowing unparalleled movement on the lunar surface. Watch | DRC marks Christmas amid unrest following elections × The precision exhibited by SLIM is raising hopes for easier sampling of lunar permafrost, bringing scientists closer to unravelling the mysteries surrounding water resources on the moon. Notably, Japan aims to join the ranks of the United States, Russia, China, and India as the fifth country to successfully land a probe on the moon. While Japan has faced setbacks in lunar exploration, including the unsuccessful Omotenashi probe in the Artemis 1 mission, SLIM's mission is a renewed optimism for the country in its pursuit of lunar exploration excellence. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's 'Moon Sniper' enters lunar orbit on Christmas, sets stage for landing on Jan 20 next year

In the Far East where tensions ran high this year North Korea's Relentless missile tests continued as South Korea and Japan got closer. The United States meanwhile increased its presence in the region with more drills and Military posturing in the Korean Waters. Let's take a look.

WION Rewind 2023: Tensions rose high across the Korean peninsula

<p>Japan is on the verge of securing a deal to send its first astronaut to the moon by 2025 as part of the US-led Artemis project, media reports said citing sources.</p>

<p>NASA's Artemis program which aims to land humans on the Moon involves collaboration with international partners and private companies. It is led by the United States' National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) along with six major partner agencies, including the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The program will send American astronauts to the moon after a hiatus of over half a century, and Japan is poised to play a pivotal role in this historic venture.</p>

<p>Sources reportedly indicate that discussions are underway for the potential inclusion of a second Japanese astronaut in the mission. Finalisation of this ambitious plan is expected as early as next month, underscoring the rapid progress in Japan's advancements in space exploration.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tehran-rejects-baseless-us-claim-about-iran-targeting-chemical-tanker-off-indian-coast-673358">Tehran rejects ‘baseless’ US claim about Iran targeting chemical tanker off Indian coast</a></p>

<p>Japan, through its space agency JAXA is playing a crucial role in the Lunar Gateway project.&nbsp; the first planned extraterrestrial space station, which&nbsp;is designed to orbit the moon and serve various functions.</p>

<p>As part of this multinational collaboration involving four International Space Station partner agencies—NASA, European Space Agency (ESA), JAXA, and Canadian Space Agency (CSA)—Japan will contribute expertise and resources to enhance the Gateway's capabilities.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-top-govt-advisor-asks-christian-community-groups-to-align-beliefs-with-chinese-culture-673329">Beijing’s top govt advisor asks Christian community groups to align beliefs with Chinese culture</a></p>

<p>The Artemis program, while focused on lunar exploration and the return of humans to the moon, ultimately aspires to pave the way for Mars exploration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-home-secretarys-date-rape-comment-sparks-massive-outrage-673369">UK Home Secretary's 'Date Rape' comment sparks massive outrage</a></strong></p>

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<p>NASA's successful launch of the uncrewed Orion spacecraft last year signaled a significant step forward, with plans to conduct a lunar flyby in November 2024 and establish a lunar presence aboard a SpaceX craft in 2025, followed by regular lunar trips starting in 2028.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan is on the verge of securing a deal to send its first astronaut to the moon by 2025 as part of the US-led Artemis project, media reports said citing sources.

Japan is on the verge of securing a deal to send its first astronaut to the moon by 2025 as part of the US-led Artemis project, media reports said citing sources. NASA's Artemis program which aims to land humans on the Moon involves collaboration with international partners and private companies. It is led by the United States' National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) along with six major partner agencies, including the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The program will send American astronauts to the moon after a hiatus of over half a century, and Japan is poised to play a pivotal role in this historic venture. Sources reportedly indicate that discussions are underway for the potential inclusion of a second Japanese astronaut in the mission. Finalisation of this ambitious plan is expected as early as next month, underscoring the rapid progress in Japan's advancements in space exploration. Also Read | Tehran rejects ‘baseless’ US claim about Iran targeting chemical tanker off Indian coast Japan, through its space agency JAXA is playing a crucial role in the Lunar Gateway project. the first planned extraterrestrial space station, which is designed to orbit the moon and serve various functions. As part of this multinational collaboration involving four International Space Station partner agencies—NASA, European Space Agency (ESA), JAXA, and Canadian Space Agency (CSA)—Japan will contribute expertise and resources to enhance the Gateway's capabilities. Also Read | Beijing’s top govt advisor asks Christian community groups to align beliefs with Chinese culture The Artemis program, while focused on lunar exploration and the return of humans to the moon, ultimately aspires to pave the way for Mars exploration. Watch | UK Home Secretary's 'Date Rape' comment sparks massive outrage × NASA's successful launch of the uncrewed Orion spacecraft last year signaled a significant step forward, with plans to conduct a lunar flyby in November 2024 and establish a lunar presence aboard a SpaceX craft in 2025, followed by regular lunar trips starting in 2028. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan nears historic deal to land 1st astronaut on Moon by 2025 under US-led Artemis project

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