<p>Foreigners are increasingly snapping up old and abandoned houses in Japan for incredibly low prices to set up hotels or to rent them out.</p>

<p>Thanks to Japan’s graying and declining population, the number of abandoned houses, known as akiya, is increasing rapidly, attracting buyers from overseas who admire Japanese culture and who can’t buy similar properties back home due to high prices and massive inflation.</p>

<p>On the other hand, a weak Yen welcomes them here with open arms.</p>

<p>Coline Aguirre, a Parisian, also bought an akiya in the central prefecture of Nara for $33,000. “In France, if I want a small garage I will have to spend €100,000 (US$108,000),” she was quoted as saying by SCMP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m going to have do a lot of renovation in the house, but the price is still going to be much lower than if I had bought a house in France. So I was thinking to have a renovation budget twice the price of the house,” she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Why people are buying abandoned houses?</strong></h2>

<p>According to observers, people buy houses in rural Japan at cheaper rates only to later operate them as vacation properties for Airbnbs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-sees-its-first-strike-in-decades-as-workers-oppose-department-store-sale-631046"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Japan sees its first strike in decades as workers oppose department store sale</strong></a></p>

<p>“They can reside in a beautiful part of Japan in a traditional house and earn income from visitors. It’s the fulfilment of a dream for many,” Kazuaki Nebu, country head of property portal IQI Japan, was quoted as saying by SCMP.</p>

<p>Aguirre also has similar plans for her property.</p>

<p>“Maybe in about 10 years, I would like this house to be a hotel and I won’t have to live in it any more, and someone else can manage it and it will just be an investment property,” she says.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan’s ‘akiya’ problem</strong></h2>

<p>In 2018, Japan had approximately 8.49 million unoccupied houses, a significant increase of 1.5 times from 1998, constituting 13.6 per cent of all residences, as reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover</strong></p>

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<p>According to projections from the Nomura Research Institute, if not addressed through large-scale demolitions, the number of vacant homes is expected to surge to 23.03 million by 2038, representing 31.5 per cent of all houses. This means that nearly one in three houses could potentially remain unoccupied.</p>

<p>The issue of abandoned homes has become a pressing concern in Japan, with one in seven houses currently vacant.</p>

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Foreigners are increasingly snapping up old and abandoned houses in Japan for incredibly low prices to set up hotels or to rent them out. Thanks to Japan’s graying and declining population, the number of abandoned houses, known as akiya, is increasing rapidly, attracting buyers from overseas who admire Japanese culture and who can’t buy similar properties back home due to high prices and massive inflation.

Foreigners are increasingly snapping up old and abandoned houses in Japan for incredibly low prices to set up hotels or to rent them out. Thanks to Japan’s graying and declining population, the number of abandoned houses, known as akiya, is increasing rapidly, attracting buyers from overseas who admire Japanese culture and who can’t buy similar properties back home due to high prices and massive inflation. On the other hand, a weak Yen welcomes them here with open arms. Coline Aguirre, a Parisian, also bought an akiya in the central prefecture of Nara for $33,000. “In France, if I want a small garage I will have to spend €100,000 (US$108,000),” she was quoted as saying by SCMP. “I’m going to have do a lot of renovation in the house, but the price is still going to be much lower than if I had bought a house in France. So I was thinking to have a renovation budget twice the price of the house,” she added. Why people are buying abandoned houses? According to observers, people buy houses in rural Japan at cheaper rates only to later operate them as vacation properties for Airbnbs. Also read: Japan sees its first strike in decades as workers oppose department store sale “They can reside in a beautiful part of Japan in a traditional house and earn income from visitors. It’s the fulfilment of a dream for many,” Kazuaki Nebu, country head of property portal IQI Japan, was quoted as saying by SCMP. Aguirre also has similar plans for her property. “Maybe in about 10 years, I would like this house to be a hotel and I won’t have to live in it any more, and someone else can manage it and it will just be an investment property,” she says. Japan’s ‘akiya’ problem In 2018, Japan had approximately 8.49 million unoccupied houses, a significant increase of 1.5 times from 1998, constituting 13.6 per cent of all residences, as reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. Watch: Gravitas: Millions in Japan told to take immediate cover × According to projections from the Nomura Research Institute, if not addressed through large-scale demolitions, the number of vacant homes is expected to surge to 23.03 million by 2038, representing 31.5 per cent of all houses. This means that nearly one in three houses could potentially remain unoccupied. The issue of abandoned homes has become a pressing concern in Japan, with one in seven houses currently vacant. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Every seventh house in Japan is abandoned, now foreigners are buying them

<p>India mauled Japan 35-1 after beating Malaysia 7-5 to enter the semifinals of the men’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifiers here on Thursday. With two wins on the day, India finished second in the Elite pool table with 12 points, and earned a direct qualification for the semifinals. They play in the second semifinal of the tournament on Saturday.</p>

<p>In its first match of the day, India won a closely-contested match against Malaysia with Gurjot Singh (7th, 11th, 17th, 29th, 30th) scoring five goals. Maninder Singh (12th) and Mohammed Raheel (21st) were other Indian scorers. Malaysia scored through Arif Ishak (6th), Ismail Abu (7th), Muhamad Din (8th), Kamarulzaman Kamaruddin (26th) and Syarman Mat (30th).</p>

<p>Against Japan in the second match, it was mayhem with the Indians raining goals at will. Maninder (1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 9th, 15th, 20th, 24th, 25th, 29th) scored a whopping 10 goals while Mohammed Raheel (3rd, 4th, 11th, 12th, 17th, 26th, 26th) struck seven times.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mls-on-strike-la-hotel-staff-ask-lionel-messi-inter-miami-team-to-stay-elsewhere-ahead-of-sunday-tie-vs-lafc-631054">MLS: On-strike LA hotel staff ask Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Team to stay elsewhere ahead of Sunday tie vs LAFC</a></strong></p>

<p>Pawan Rajbhar (2nd, 6th, 10th, 13th, 23rd) and Gurjot Singh (12th, 20th, 21st, 27th, 30th) scored five goals each, while Sukhvinder (4th, 8th, 16th, 22nd) struck five. Captain Mandeep Mor (18th, 23rd, 29th) was on target while Jugraj Singh (15th) got one.</p>

<p>For Japan, Masataka Kobori (29th) scored its lone goal.</p>

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India mauled Japan 35-1 after beating Malaysia 7-5 to enter the semifinals of the men’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifiers here on Thursday. With two wins on the day, India finished second in the Elite pool table with 12 points, and earned a direct qualification for the semifinals.

India mauled Japan 35-1 after beating Malaysia 7-5 to enter the semifinals of the men’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifiers here on Thursday. With two wins on the day, India finished second in the Elite pool table with 12 points, and earned a direct qualification for the semifinals. They play in the second semifinal of the tournament on Saturday. In its first match of the day, India won a closely-contested match against Malaysia with Gurjot Singh (7th, 11th, 17th, 29th, 30th) scoring five goals. Maninder Singh (12th) and Mohammed Raheel (21st) were other Indian scorers. Malaysia scored through Arif Ishak (6th), Ismail Abu (7th), Muhamad Din (8th), Kamarulzaman Kamaruddin (26th) and Syarman Mat (30th). Against Japan in the second match, it was mayhem with the Indians raining goals at will. Maninder (1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 9th, 15th, 20th, 24th, 25th, 29th) scored a whopping 10 goals while Mohammed Raheel (3rd, 4th, 11th, 12th, 17th, 26th, 26th) struck seven times. Also read: MLS: On-strike LA hotel staff ask Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Team to stay elsewhere ahead of Sunday tie vs LAFC Pawan Rajbhar (2nd, 6th, 10th, 13th, 23rd) and Gurjot Singh (12th, 20th, 21st, 27th, 30th) scored five goals each, while Sukhvinder (4th, 8th, 16th, 22nd) struck five. Captain Mandeep Mor (18th, 23rd, 29th) was on target while Jugraj Singh (15th) got one. For Japan, Masataka Kobori (29th) scored its lone goal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hockey: Men’s Asian 5s WC Qualifiers - India thrash Malaysia 7-5, humiliate Japan 35-1 to enter semifinals

<p>Japan this year recorded the country's highest-ever average temperature since the inception of records in 1898, the weather agency on Friday (September 1) said.</p>

<p>"Average temperatures in Japan are the highest for summer since 1898," the agency said.</p>

<p>From the month of June to August, the agency recorded "considerably higher" average summer temperatures in "northern, eastern, and western Japan".</p>

<p>"The average temperature anomaly in Japan, based on observations at 15 locations, was +1.76 degrees C, far exceeding that of 2010 (+1.08 degrees C), which was the highest since statistics began in 1898 and the highest for summer," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>"Warm air tended to cover northern Japan and warm air flowed in from the south, resulting in considerably higher average summer temperatures in northern, eastern, and western Japan," it added.</p>

<p>The agency further added that in many locations, such as Itoigawa City "not only maximum temperatures but also minimum temperatures reached record highs".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On August 10, the city in Japan's Niigata region recorded a low of 31.4 degrees Celsius (88.5 Fahrenheit), which was the highest daily minimum temperature in all of Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-visit-storm-idalia-hit-florida-as-people-survey-hurricane-damage-631027">Biden to visit Idalia-hit Florida as people survey hurricane damage</a></p>

<p>The agency said that as compared to years with particularly high average summer temperatures (2010, 2013, 2018, and 2022), the number of days with soaring temperatures significantly increased from late July onward, taking the total to the highest number since 2010.</p>

<h2><strong>Heat-related deaths in Japan</strong></h2>

<p>July this year was officially declared as the country's warmest month in a century with at least 53 people succumbing to heatstrokes and nearly 50,000 needing emergency medical attention.</p>

<p>The Japan Times last month published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, the health ministry data showed that the elderly were the ones who were most impacted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other parts of the world also witnessed record temperatures this summer. As per EU's climate observatory Copernicus, July 2023, which saw heatwaves and fires around the world, was the hottest month ever registered on Earth.</p>

<p>In France this month late-summer records toppled as a "heat dome" bore down on much of the country, hitting the southern half and Mediterranean coast especially hard. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from the agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Japan this year recorded the country's highest-ever average temperature since the inception of records in 1898, the weather agency on Friday (September 1) said. "Average temperatures in Japan are the highest for summer since 1898," the agency said.

Japan this year recorded the country's highest-ever average temperature since the inception of records in 1898, the weather agency on Friday (September 1) said. "Average temperatures in Japan are the highest for summer since 1898," the agency said. From the month of June to August, the agency recorded "considerably higher" average summer temperatures in "northern, eastern, and western Japan". "The average temperature anomaly in Japan, based on observations at 15 locations, was +1.76 degrees C, far exceeding that of 2010 (+1.08 degrees C), which was the highest since statistics began in 1898 and the highest for summer," it said in a statement. "Warm air tended to cover northern Japan and warm air flowed in from the south, resulting in considerably higher average summer temperatures in northern, eastern, and western Japan," it added. The agency further added that in many locations, such as Itoigawa City "not only maximum temperatures but also minimum temperatures reached record highs". On August 10, the city in Japan's Niigata region recorded a low of 31.4 degrees Celsius (88.5 Fahrenheit), which was the highest daily minimum temperature in all of Japan. Also read: Biden to visit Idalia-hit Florida as people survey hurricane damage The agency said that as compared to years with particularly high average summer temperatures (2010, 2013, 2018, and 2022), the number of days with soaring temperatures significantly increased from late July onward, taking the total to the highest number since 2010. Heat-related deaths in Japan July this year was officially declared as the country's warmest month in a century with at least 53 people succumbing to heatstrokes and nearly 50,000 needing emergency medical attention. The Japan Times last month published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022. According to the report, the health ministry data showed that the elderly were the ones who were most impacted. Other parts of the world also witnessed record temperatures this summer. As per EU's climate observatory Copernicus, July 2023, which saw heatwaves and fires around the world, was the hottest month ever registered on Earth. In France this month late-summer records toppled as a "heat dome" bore down on much of the country, hitting the southern half and Mediterranean coast especially hard. (With inputs from the agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scorching Summer! Japan records highest average temperature in 125 years

Strikes by workers are extremely uncommon in Japan, the world's 3rd largest economy. So, when workers of a major department store in Tokyo went on strike on Thursday, it not only grabbed national but also international headlines. We are talking about the one-day strike by the workers of a Sogo & Seibu store, who protested the sale of the retail firm to the US Fund Fortress investment group. Some 900 employees at its flagship Tokyo store began striking after talks with management broke down. This was the first strike at a major Japanese department store in the last six decades.

First strike in Japan in 6 decades takes place in Tokyo

<p>Japan on Thursday saw its first strike in decades, as employees of a large department store in Tokyo protested the&nbsp;sale of their company to a US-based investor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the flagship Seibu shop in the busy Tokyo neighbourhood of Ikebukuro, over 900 employees held a one-day strike protesting the sale of Sogo &amp; Seibu, a division of the Japanese retail behemoth Seven &amp; i, to the Fortress Investment Group.</p>

<p>On Thursday morning, Seibu employees demonstrated in front of the store in the sweltering heat while supporters from other unions distributed pamphlets.</p>

<p>Unhappy with the contingency plans, under which discount electronics retailer Yodobashi Holdings may take over nearly half of the store, the protesting employees demanded job security guarantees.</p>

<p>Following months of negotiations between Sogo &amp; Seibu management and the workers’ union, the strike, the first at a major Japanese department store in 61 years, took place amid a severe labour shortage in Japan.</p>

<p>In Japan, where wage and working-condition negotiations are often settled peacefully, strikes are incredibly uncommon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Seven &amp; i apologised for the strike and assured the workers' union that negotiations would continue. The regular business hours were observed at other Seibu and Sogo department stores.</p>

<p><b>The takeover deal</b></p>

<p>The agreement would be finalised on Friday, Seven &amp; i announced, adding that it had asked Fortress to give “maximum consideration of Sogo &amp; Seibu’s business continuation and continuation of employment".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This, however, resulted in a reduction of Sogo &amp; Seibu’s sale value from the initially agreed 250 billion yen to 30 billion yen ($205 million).</p>

<p>As part of the agreement, Seven and i will also let go of the 91.6 billion yen in debt, which is more than half of the total sum it has lent to its unit.</p>

<p>Fortress said in a statement that it will collaborate with Seven &amp; i to help Sogo &amp; Seibu’s management keep its personnel “to the extent possible”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It stated that it intended to refurbish Sogo &amp; Seibu’s outlets alongside partner Yodobashi for an investment of more than 20 billion yen.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Reuters)</p>


Japan on Thursday saw its first strike in decades, as employees of a large department store in Tokyo protested the sale of their company to a US-based investor. At the flagship Seibu shop in the busy Tokyo neighbourhood of Ikebukuro, over 900 employees held a one-day strike protesting the sale of Sogo & Seibu, a division of the Japanese retail behemoth Seven & i, to the Fortress Investment Group.

Japan on Thursday saw its first strike in decades, as employees of a large department store in Tokyo protested the sale of their company to a US-based investor. At the flagship Seibu shop in the busy Tokyo neighbourhood of Ikebukuro, over 900 employees held a one-day strike protesting the sale of Sogo & Seibu, a division of the Japanese retail behemoth Seven & i, to the Fortress Investment Group. On Thursday morning, Seibu employees demonstrated in front of the store in the sweltering heat while supporters from other unions distributed pamphlets. Unhappy with the contingency plans, under which discount electronics retailer Yodobashi Holdings may take over nearly half of the store, the protesting employees demanded job security guarantees. Following months of negotiations between Sogo & Seibu management and the workers’ union, the strike, the first at a major Japanese department store in 61 years, took place amid a severe labour shortage in Japan. In Japan, where wage and working-condition negotiations are often settled peacefully, strikes are incredibly uncommon. Seven & i apologised for the strike and assured the workers' union that negotiations would continue. The regular business hours were observed at other Seibu and Sogo department stores. The takeover deal The agreement would be finalised on Friday, Seven & i announced, adding that it had asked Fortress to give “maximum consideration of Sogo & Seibu’s business continuation and continuation of employment". This, however, resulted in a reduction of Sogo & Seibu’s sale value from the initially agreed 250 billion yen to 30 billion yen ($205 million). As part of the agreement, Seven and i will also let go of the 91.6 billion yen in debt, which is more than half of the total sum it has lent to its unit. Fortress said in a statement that it will collaborate with Seven & i to help Sogo & Seibu’s management keep its personnel “to the extent possible”. It stated that it intended to refurbish Sogo & Seibu’s outlets alongside partner Yodobashi for an investment of more than 20 billion yen. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan sees its first strike in decades as workers oppose department store sale  

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<p>The advent of technology has become a nuisance for supermarkets in Japan. Soaring cases of shoplifting are being recorded in the country as self-checkout systems installed to plug staff shortages allow customers to walk away with goods without paying any money.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report in South China Morning Post, rising prices, stagnant wages, shortfall in household savings and changing attitudes among younger generations are responsible for the undesirable rise in shoplifting. For a country like Japan, which prides itself on being a low-crime society, the increase in shoplifting incidents reflects poorly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly enough, about 80 per cent of shoplifting occurs when customers fail to scan their purchases at the self-service checkouts — meaning it is technology that is failing humans first. As a result, some stores are experiencing a 30 per cent increase in losses.</p>

<p>“The economy has been weak for 30 years now and it has become substantially worse since the coronavirus outbreak. Now, we have prices for everyday items rising, salaries static and no signs that situation is going to change any time soon,” Makoto Watanabe, a professor of media and communications at Hokkaido Bunkyo University in Sapporo was quoted as saying by the publication.</p>

<p>“People simply have less to spend, and for those who are struggling, this is an easy opportunity," he added, pointing out that fundamental changes in Japanese society were forcing people to steal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s like the young people we saw a few months ago taking videos of themselves licking soy sauce bottles in sushi restaurants for ‘likes’ on social media. They enjoy causing anger and outrage and we, as a society, have to be tougher on this sort of behaviour,” he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beheaded-man-found-inside-japanese-love-hotel-woman-and-her-parents-arrested-619591" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Beheaded man found inside Japan’s ‘love hotel’; woman and her parents arrested</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Why so many checkout stores?</strong></h2>

<p>For a long time, Japan has been facing labour shortage issues, primarily due to its ageing population. Automated checkout solutions have been the answer to this problem. Notably, the first self-checkout counters were introduced in Japan, way back in 2003 and since then, have witnessed a steady increase in numbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-strike-in-japan-in-6-decades-takes-place-in-tokyo-631090"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;First strike in Japan in 6 decades takes place in Tokyo</strong></a></p>

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<p>In 2019, an estimated 14.3 per cent of all supermarkets were operating the system which increased to around 30 per cent in 2022, primarily due to the coronavirus pandemic as supermarkets attempted to limit interactions between staff and customers to stop the virus spread.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The advent of technology has become a nuisance for supermarkets in Japan. Soaring cases of shoplifting are being recorded in the country as self-checkout systems installed to plug staff shortages allow customers to walk away with goods without paying any money.

The advent of technology has become a nuisance for supermarkets in Japan. Soaring cases of shoplifting are being recorded in the country as self-checkout systems installed to plug staff shortages allow customers to walk away with goods without paying any money. According to a report in South China Morning Post, rising prices, stagnant wages, shortfall in household savings and changing attitudes among younger generations are responsible for the undesirable rise in shoplifting. For a country like Japan, which prides itself on being a low-crime society, the increase in shoplifting incidents reflects poorly. Interestingly enough, about 80 per cent of shoplifting occurs when customers fail to scan their purchases at the self-service checkouts — meaning it is technology that is failing humans first. As a result, some stores are experiencing a 30 per cent increase in losses. “The economy has been weak for 30 years now and it has become substantially worse since the coronavirus outbreak. Now, we have prices for everyday items rising, salaries static and no signs that situation is going to change any time soon,” Makoto Watanabe, a professor of media and communications at Hokkaido Bunkyo University in Sapporo was quoted as saying by the publication. “People simply have less to spend, and for those who are struggling, this is an easy opportunity," he added, pointing out that fundamental changes in Japanese society were forcing people to steal. “It’s like the young people we saw a few months ago taking videos of themselves licking soy sauce bottles in sushi restaurants for ‘likes’ on social media. They enjoy causing anger and outrage and we, as a society, have to be tougher on this sort of behaviour,” he added. Also read | Beheaded man found inside Japan’s ‘love hotel’; woman and her parents arrested Why so many checkout stores? For a long time, Japan has been facing labour shortage issues, primarily due to its ageing population. Automated checkout solutions have been the answer to this problem. Notably, the first self-checkout counters were introduced in Japan, way back in 2003 and since then, have witnessed a steady increase in numbers. Watch | First strike in Japan in 6 decades takes place in Tokyo × In 2019, an estimated 14.3 per cent of all supermarkets were operating the system which increased to around 30 per cent in 2022, primarily due to the coronavirus pandemic as supermarkets attempted to limit interactions between staff and customers to stop the virus spread. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shoplifting on rise in Japanese supermarkets having self-checkout machines

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Thursday (August 31), after his visit to Tokyo's biggest fish market said that he would put together measures in order to support the fishing industry hit by China's ban on Japanese seafood.</p>

<p>To fund the measures, the government will inject additional funds of approximately several tens of billions of yen (hundreds of millions of dollars) from the government's budget reserves for the current fiscal year, the Nikkei reported on Thursday.</p>

<p>"I will put together measures given the variety of opinions I heard from the fishing industry today," Kishida said to reporters following a visit to the Toyosu fish market on Thursday, adding that requests included support to help fishing companies develop new sales avenues and holding discussions with China.</p>

<h2><strong>"Safe and delicious" meal from Fukushima</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (August 30), Kishida consumed what he called "safe and delicious" fish from Fukushima. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He also invited his ministers to his office for a sashimi lunch made up of seafood caught from the Fukushima Prefecture.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vetoes-unsc-resolution-on-sanctions-against-mali-china-abstains-630716">Russia vetoes UNSC resolution on sanctions against Mali, China abstains</a></p>

<p>A video clip of Kishida enjoying the meal was published on social media by his office.</p>

<p>The clip featuring cheery music shows the Japanese PM saying, "This is very good," as he chews on a slice of flounder sashimi.</p>

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▼关于ALPS处理水 海洋释放的安全性<a href="https://t.co/0UVKY0ysBC">https://t.co/0UVKY0ysBC</a><br />
▼三陸常磐出产的海鲜期待您的支持<a href="https://t.co/Oaxth4sDxE">https://t.co/Oaxth4sDxE</a> <a href="https://t.co/vTNdSkEQYe">pic.twitter.com/vTNdSkEQYe</a></p>
— PM's Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPN_PMO/status/1697086539715784809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>He then calls on viewers to enjoy "safe and delicious" Japanese seafood and support the northeastern region.</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns over Fukushima seafood</strong></h2>

<p>The move was aimed at pacifying concerns over the safety of seafood from Fukushima Prefecture, and promoting products from the area that 12 years earlier was devastated by a huge earthquake and a Tsunami.</p>

<p>The release of the treated water, which has undergone filtration to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, is part of the decommissioning process of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. This process, as per AFP, will happen over decades and will release water equivalent to more than 500 Olympic swimming pools.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Thursday (August 31), after his visit to Tokyo's biggest fish market said that he would put together measures in order to support the fishing industry hit by China's ban on Japanese seafood.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, on Thursday (August 31), after his visit to Tokyo's biggest fish market said that he would put together measures in order to support the fishing industry hit by China's ban on Japanese seafood. To fund the measures, the government will inject additional funds of approximately several tens of billions of yen (hundreds of millions of dollars) from the government's budget reserves for the current fiscal year, the Nikkei reported on Thursday. "I will put together measures given the variety of opinions I heard from the fishing industry today," Kishida said to reporters following a visit to the Toyosu fish market on Thursday, adding that requests included support to help fishing companies develop new sales avenues and holding discussions with China. "Safe and delicious" meal from Fukushima On Wednesday (August 30), Kishida consumed what he called "safe and delicious" fish from Fukushima. He also invited his ministers to his office for a sashimi lunch made up of seafood caught from the Fukushima Prefecture. Also read: Russia vetoes UNSC resolution on sanctions against Mali, China abstains A video clip of Kishida enjoying the meal was published on social media by his office. The clip featuring cheery music shows the Japanese PM saying, "This is very good," as he chews on a slice of flounder sashimi. 三陸常磐出产的海鲜期待您的支持！ 三陸常磐，即岩手、宮城、福島及茨城县。 欢迎您来日本，品尝并支持以三陸常磐海产 为代表的安全而美味的日本海鲜美食！ ▼关于ALPS处理水 海洋释放的安全性https://t.co/0UVKY0ysBC ▼三陸常磐出产的海鲜期待您的支持https://t.co/Oaxth4sDxE pic.twitter.com/vTNdSkEQYe — PM's Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) August 31, 2023 × He then calls on viewers to enjoy "safe and delicious" Japanese seafood and support the northeastern region. Concerns over Fukushima seafood The move was aimed at pacifying concerns over the safety of seafood from Fukushima Prefecture, and promoting products from the area that 12 years earlier was devastated by a huge earthquake and a Tsunami. The release of the treated water, which has undergone filtration to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium, is part of the decommissioning process of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. This process, as per AFP, will happen over decades and will release water equivalent to more than 500 Olympic swimming pools. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan PM Kishida vows to put together measures to help fishing industry after China seafood ban

A UK committee has suggested the expansion of AUKUS to include South Korea & Japan. What could this expansion mean for the Quad? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: UK Committee suggests including Japan & South Korea in the QUAD

Days after effluent from the region's wrecked nuclear facility was discharged into the Pacific, the prime minister of Japan consumed what he described as "safe and delicious" fish from Fukushima. A video of Fumio Kishida eating fish from Fukushima was posted on social media by his office after China prohibited all imports of seafood from its neighbor as a result of the August 24 spill.

Japan: PM Kishida eats Fukushima fish to dispel concerns over water release

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: In earlier tests, Pyongyang demonstrated how it would utilise nuclear-capable missiles in a conflict with South Korea or the United States.

Pyongyang simulates 'tactical nuclear strike' on South Korea

Japan's declining birth rate seems to be a cause of concern in the latest government data for the January to June period this year. The number of babies born in Japan and in Japanese expatriates fell by 3.6 per cent as compared to last year in 2022 the number of births also fell for the seventh consecutive year. By the looks of it 2023 that's expected to follow suit.

2022: The number of births in Japan fell for the seventh consecutive year

Japan may be at an inflection point in its 25-year battle with deflation as price and wage rises show signs of broadening, the government said on Tuesday, signalling its conviction the economy was nearing an end to prolonged stagnation.

Japan at 'inflection point' in 25-year battle with deflation: Government

The Japanese government has told its citizens in China to maintain a low profile following multiple incidents of harassment against them. The cause of this is Japan's decision to release treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. On Monday, Japan also summoned the Chinese ambassador. @mollygambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: 'Don't Speak Japanese Loudly'; Tokyo Cautions Citizens Amid Harassment In China | Fukushima Fallout

Japan has urged its citizens in China to avoid using their native tongue in loud voices, while its companies have received a wave of abusive calls amid a rise in anti-Japanese sentiment sparked by the controversial discharge of wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Japan complains of harassment calls from China over Fukushima water release

The race to the moon has just begun. After India's successful launch of Chandrayaan-3. Japan is also embarking on a moon mission. This mission is named the “Smart Lander for Investigating Moon” or SLIM.

Japan's Moon Sniper: What is a pinpoint landing on the Moon?

<p>Japan's foreign minister released a statement on Tuesday (29 August) denouncing the harassment being faced by Japanese nationals residing in China and at home, terming it as "extremely regrettable" after Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is extremely regrettable and worrying," Yoshimasa Hayashi said while interacting with the press in Tokyo.</p>

<p>"We would like to urge the Chinese government again to take appropriate measures immediately, such as calling on its citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating, and to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese residents and our diplomatic missions in China," he said.</p>

<p>He added that China should "provide accurate information" about the Fukushima water release "rather than unnecessarily raising people's concerns by providing information without any scientific basis".</p>

<p>He also confirmed that a brick was pelted at Japan's embassy in Beijing.</p>

<h2><strong>Japanese embassy in China 'extremely worried'</strong></h2>

<p>The Japanese embassy in Beijing also released a statement on Tuesday saying that it was "extremely worried" about the harassment by the Chinese nationals over Tokyo's release of Fukushima wastewater.</p>

<p>"We find this very regrettable and feel extremely worried," news agency AFP quoted an embassy press officer as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-hitting-technical-snag-uk-flight-chaos-likely-to-last-for-days-630063">After hitting technical snag, UK flight chaos likely to last for days</a></p>

<p>They urged Beijing to "ensure the safety of these embassies and consulates in China in accordance with international law, including some facilities related to Japan, and including Japanese people."</p>

<p>The press officer, in a conversation with the news agency AFP, said, that some Chinese nationals had thrown bricks at Tokyo's embassy in Beijing and had also made harassing phone calls.</p>

<p>"Some individuals have come to our (embassy) entrance," they said.</p>

<p>"They took these kinds of actions then were led away by armed police," they explained.</p>

<p>"Harassing calls are answered every day, especially on weekends, beginning last Thursday and Friday, delaying our normal work," they added.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan condemns harassment calls from China&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Japan, on Monday (28 August), condemned harassing phone calls it received since the Fukushima wastewater discharge calling the action "extremely regrettable".</p>

<p>While raising concern over these phone calls, Japan's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano summoned Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao to the Foreign Ministry and strongly denounced the harassment.</p>

<p>Okano told Jianghao that Beijing "should not unnecessarily raise people's concerns with information that is not based on scientific evidence."</p>

<p>He also called on the Chinese government to disseminate accurate information and said that the authorities must ask their citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan's foreign minister released a statement on Tuesday (29 August) denouncing the harassment being faced by Japanese nationals residing in China and at home, terming it as "extremely regrettable" after Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc.

Japan's foreign minister released a statement on Tuesday (29 August) denouncing the harassment being faced by Japanese nationals residing in China and at home, terming it as "extremely regrettable" after Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. "It is extremely regrettable and worrying," Yoshimasa Hayashi said while interacting with the press in Tokyo. "We would like to urge the Chinese government again to take appropriate measures immediately, such as calling on its citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating, and to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese residents and our diplomatic missions in China," he said. He added that China should "provide accurate information" about the Fukushima water release "rather than unnecessarily raising people's concerns by providing information without any scientific basis". He also confirmed that a brick was pelted at Japan's embassy in Beijing. Japanese embassy in China 'extremely worried' The Japanese embassy in Beijing also released a statement on Tuesday saying that it was "extremely worried" about the harassment by the Chinese nationals over Tokyo's release of Fukushima wastewater. "We find this very regrettable and feel extremely worried," news agency AFP quoted an embassy press officer as saying. Also read: After hitting technical snag, UK flight chaos likely to last for days They urged Beijing to "ensure the safety of these embassies and consulates in China in accordance with international law, including some facilities related to Japan, and including Japanese people." The press officer, in a conversation with the news agency AFP, said, that some Chinese nationals had thrown bricks at Tokyo's embassy in Beijing and had also made harassing phone calls. "Some individuals have come to our (embassy) entrance," they said. "They took these kinds of actions then were led away by armed police," they explained. "Harassing calls are answered every day, especially on weekends, beginning last Thursday and Friday, delaying our normal work," they added. Japan condemns harassment calls from China Japan, on Monday (28 August), condemned harassing phone calls it received since the Fukushima wastewater discharge calling the action "extremely regrettable". While raising concern over these phone calls, Japan's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano summoned Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao to the Foreign Ministry and strongly denounced the harassment. Okano told Jianghao that Beijing "should not unnecessarily raise people's concerns with information that is not based on scientific evidence." He also called on the Chinese government to disseminate accurate information and said that the authorities must ask their citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan's foreign minister says China harassment 'extremely worrying' after brick thrown at embassy in Beijing

<p>Japanese auto giant Toyota said Tuesday (August 29) it halted operations at 12 of its 14 factories in Japan owing to a ‘system glitch’. The company claimed it did not appear to be a cyberattack.</p>

<p>“Twelve vehicle factories, affecting 25 lines, are not able to process orders for parts due to a system glitch… At this point, we believe it is not a cyberattack,” a Toyota spokesman told AFP.</p>

<p>The glitch reportedly began Tuesday morning. Toyota refrained from sharing more details but added, “We will continue to investigate the cause of the matter and will restore it as soon as possible.”</p>

<p>It was not clear when normal production was expected to resume. Also, the company did not make it clear whether or not factories abroad were affected.</p>

<p>Toyota’s two factories in the country are still operational. One factory in the southern Kyushu region and a subsidiary Daihatsu’s factory in Kyoto did not experience any glitches.</p>

<h2><strong>Toyota stocks plunge</strong></h2>

<p>The unexpected glitch caused Toyota's stocks to drop 0.64 per cent, to 2,421.0 yen, pushing them into negative territory. The downward trend seemed to ease before the midday pause in Tokyo's market activity.</p>

<p>In the previous year, Toyota had to halt operations across its domestic factories due to a cyberattack on one of its subsidiaries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Toyota’s net income surges by 75%</strong></p>

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<p>As one of Japan's most significant and esteemed companies, Toyota's manufacturing operations have a considerable impact on the nation's economy.</p>

<p>Toyota is renowned for its remarkable efficiency and the "just-in-time" production system, which involves delivering small batches of essential components during various stages of assembly. While this strategy reduces costs and enhances efficiency, it also carries significant risks.</p>

<p>Despite facing pandemic challenges and global chip shortage, Toyota managed to maintain its position as the world's top-selling automaker for the third consecutive year in 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>Toyota financial outlook</strong></h2>

<p>In the fiscal year leading up to March 2024, Toyota aimed to achieve a net profit of 2.58 trillion yen ($17.6 billion), marking a 5.2 per cent increase from the previous year. The company also targeted sales of 38 trillion yen.</p>

<p>Major automakers have experienced a strong surge in global demand following the slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortages of semiconductors, however, have constrained production capacity for various products, including cars and smartphones.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japan-postpones-moon-sniper-mission-due-to-wind-conditions-629785"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Japan postpones `Moon Sniper` mission due to wind conditions</strong></a></p>

<p>While Toyota reported improvements in chip supplies and efforts to restore production to normal levels by working closely with suppliers and raising product prices, the company still faced challenges in delivering new vehicles to customers on time.</p>

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Japanese auto giant Toyota said Tuesday (August 29) it halted operations at 12 of its 14 factories in Japan owing to a ‘system glitch’. The company claimed it did not appear to be a cyberattack.

Japanese auto giant Toyota said Tuesday (August 29) it halted operations at 12 of its 14 factories in Japan owing to a ‘system glitch’. The company claimed it did not appear to be a cyberattack. “Twelve vehicle factories, affecting 25 lines, are not able to process orders for parts due to a system glitch… At this point, we believe it is not a cyberattack,” a Toyota spokesman told AFP. The glitch reportedly began Tuesday morning. Toyota refrained from sharing more details but added, “We will continue to investigate the cause of the matter and will restore it as soon as possible.” It was not clear when normal production was expected to resume. Also, the company did not make it clear whether or not factories abroad were affected. Toyota’s two factories in the country are still operational. One factory in the southern Kyushu region and a subsidiary Daihatsu’s factory in Kyoto did not experience any glitches. Toyota stocks plunge The unexpected glitch caused Toyota's stocks to drop 0.64 per cent, to 2,421.0 yen, pushing them into negative territory. The downward trend seemed to ease before the midday pause in Tokyo's market activity. In the previous year, Toyota had to halt operations across its domestic factories due to a cyberattack on one of its subsidiaries. Watch: Toyota’s net income surges by 75% × As one of Japan's most significant and esteemed companies, Toyota's manufacturing operations have a considerable impact on the nation's economy. Toyota is renowned for its remarkable efficiency and the "just-in-time" production system, which involves delivering small batches of essential components during various stages of assembly. While this strategy reduces costs and enhances efficiency, it also carries significant risks. Despite facing pandemic challenges and global chip shortage, Toyota managed to maintain its position as the world's top-selling automaker for the third consecutive year in 2022. Toyota financial outlook In the fiscal year leading up to March 2024, Toyota aimed to achieve a net profit of 2.58 trillion yen ($17.6 billion), marking a 5.2 per cent increase from the previous year. The company also targeted sales of 38 trillion yen. Major automakers have experienced a strong surge in global demand following the slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortages of semiconductors, however, have constrained production capacity for various products, including cars and smartphones. Also read: Japan postpones `Moon Sniper` mission due to wind conditions While Toyota reported improvements in chip supplies and efforts to restore production to normal levels by working closely with suppliers and raising product prices, the company still faced challenges in delivering new vehicles to customers on time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Toyota hit by massive system glitch, 12 factories halt production in Japan

Toyota the world's top automaker faces a significant production setback all assembly plans in Japan are coming to a standstill due to a malfunction in the production system. As the investigation into the production system malfunction unfolds Toyota spokespersons have indicated that the issue is unlikely to be a result of a Cyber attack. This anomaly has notably obstructed the company's capacity to order essential components forcing the suspension of operations at all 14 assembly plants.

Malfunction pauses Toyota's Japanese assembly lines

Another lunar mission planned by ISRO and JAXA will take place in the near future. The LUPEX, or Lunar Polar Exploration, mission is scheduled to launch in 2024–2025. The procedure will get even more difficult as LUPEX investigates the permanently dark polar area of the Moon.

India-Japan Space Ties: Lupex to be first-ever joint space mission by the two countries

Japan's space agency has postponed the launch of its Moon Sniper lunar Mission. The attribute to the abortion of the mission was poor weather. Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has given no new date for the start of the mission.

Japan's Space Agency postpones 'moon sniper' lunar mission

<p>A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said. As per the report, Governor Yuriko Koike has already approved the plan earlier in the year. It is spearheaded by Mitsui Fudosan and aims to erect two towering skyscrapers, each soaring 200 meters (650 feet) into the skyline.</p>

<p>However, the main area of concern is that the project comes at the cost of trees in one of Tokyo's precious green spaces. It also includes demolishing and reconstructing a historic rugby venue and an adjoining baseball stadium, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools</a></p>

<p>In order to raise their voice against the proposed cutting down&nbsp;of the&nbsp;majestic 100-year-old ginkgo trees, a few hundred protesters gathered at the Jingu Gaien Park on Sunday (August 27), an area that was allocated 100 years ago to honour Japan's Meiji Emperor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A protester, Miho Nakashima, painted herself in green leaves and brown branches to mark her protest in Tokyo. "I'm a tree. Don't chop me down," she told AP, conveying the message loud and clear.</p>

<p>"I want to appreciate the existence of these trees. Sometimes I can feel some sounds inside," another protestor&nbsp;Takayuki Nakamura said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a></p>

<h2><strong>Lawsuits</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With lawsuits, mounting opposition, and fervent objections from conservationists, local residents, civic groups, and sports enthusiasts, the decade-long redevelopment project faces significant resistance. At the heart of the dispute are the 18 ginkgo trees facing the threat of being axed behind the rugby stadium.</p>

<p>The dispute is magnified by the historical significance attached to the place.&nbsp;Over the years, this issue has stirred significant controversy. Botanists warn of damage due to construction.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song</strong></p>

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<p>Famed Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami and composer-musician Ryuichi Sakamoto have also voiced their opposition. Sakamoto sent a letter to Governor Koike criticising the plan.</p>

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A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said.

A controversial real-estate development proposal has cast a shadow over the existence of Jingu Gaien Park, situated at the heart of Tokyo, the Associated Press news agency said. As per the report, Governor Yuriko Koike has already approved the plan earlier in the year. It is spearheaded by Mitsui Fudosan and aims to erect two towering skyscrapers, each soaring 200 meters (650 feet) into the skyline. However, the main area of concern is that the project comes at the cost of trees in one of Tokyo's precious green spaces. It also includes demolishing and reconstructing a historic rugby venue and an adjoining baseball stadium, as per reports. Also Read | French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools In order to raise their voice against the proposed cutting down of the majestic 100-year-old ginkgo trees, a few hundred protesters gathered at the Jingu Gaien Park on Sunday (August 27), an area that was allocated 100 years ago to honour Japan's Meiji Emperor. A protester, Miho Nakashima, painted herself in green leaves and brown branches to mark her protest in Tokyo. "I'm a tree. Don't chop me down," she told AP, conveying the message loud and clear. "I want to appreciate the existence of these trees. Sometimes I can feel some sounds inside," another protestor Takayuki Nakamura said. Also Read | 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil Lawsuits With lawsuits, mounting opposition, and fervent objections from conservationists, local residents, civic groups, and sports enthusiasts, the decade-long redevelopment project faces significant resistance. At the heart of the dispute are the 18 ginkgo trees facing the threat of being axed behind the rugby stadium. The dispute is magnified by the historical significance attached to the place. Over the years, this issue has stirred significant controversy. Botanists warn of damage due to construction. Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × Famed Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami and composer-musician Ryuichi Sakamoto have also voiced their opposition. Sakamoto sent a letter to Governor Koike criticising the plan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tokyo is planning to cut down 100-year-old ginkgo trees to build two skyscrapers

<p>Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said. The announcement was made through MHI's launch services unit on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, just 24 minutes before the scheduled launch time. The mission was cancelled "because it was confirmed that the upper wind does not satisfy the constraints at launch," MHI's launch services unit said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The launch was planned to take place at 9:26 am local time (0026 GMT) on Monday (August 28) from the Tanegashima Space Center in southern Japan, operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).</p>

<p>JAXA, during its live YouTube stream, indicated that further information would be provided by MHI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools</a></p>

<h2>Third failed attempt&nbsp;</h2>

<p>This is Japan's third failed moon mission. Japan's previous endeavours include an unsuccessful endeavour last year when they sought to achieve a lunar landing with the Omotenashi probe, transported by NASA's Artemis 1. Regrettably, this mission encountered setbacks leading to a loss of communication.</p>

<p>In the second failed attempt in April this year, a Japanese start-up ispace faced a setback in its ambitious aspiration to become the pioneering private enterprise to successfully land on the Moon. Unfortunately, communication was lost following what the company described as a "hard landing".</p>

<h2><strong>'Moon Sniper'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Dubbed the "Moon Sniper," JAXA's mission has earned this moniker due to its precise objective of achieving a lunar landing within a mere 100 meters (330 feet) of a designated target. This target range stands in stark contrast to the routine range of several kilometres.</p>

<p>Japan's space exploration journey has been marred by challenges in its rocket launches.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a></p>

<p>The H3 model, touted as Japan's next-generation launch vehicle, experienced failures post liftoff in March. Moreover, the usually dependable solid-fuel Epsilon also encountered issues in October last year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song</strong></p>

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<p>JAXA had plans to kick off Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM's) moon landing sometime between January and February 2024, This comes in the backdrop of the success of India's Chandrayaan-3 lunar exploration mission.</p>

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Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said.

Japan's launch of an H-IIA rocket, carrying a moon lander into space, has been postponed due to unfavourable wind conditions in the upper atmosphere, according to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the operator of the rocket, media reports said. The announcement was made through MHI's launch services unit on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, just 24 minutes before the scheduled launch time. The mission was cancelled "because it was confirmed that the upper wind does not satisfy the constraints at launch," MHI's launch services unit said. The launch was planned to take place at 9:26 am local time (0026 GMT) on Monday (August 28) from the Tanegashima Space Center in southern Japan, operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). JAXA, during its live YouTube stream, indicated that further information would be provided by MHI. Also Read | French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools Third failed attempt This is Japan's third failed moon mission. Japan's previous endeavours include an unsuccessful endeavour last year when they sought to achieve a lunar landing with the Omotenashi probe, transported by NASA's Artemis 1. Regrettably, this mission encountered setbacks leading to a loss of communication. In the second failed attempt in April this year, a Japanese start-up ispace faced a setback in its ambitious aspiration to become the pioneering private enterprise to successfully land on the Moon. Unfortunately, communication was lost following what the company described as a "hard landing". 'Moon Sniper' Dubbed the "Moon Sniper," JAXA's mission has earned this moniker due to its precise objective of achieving a lunar landing within a mere 100 meters (330 feet) of a designated target. This target range stands in stark contrast to the routine range of several kilometres. Japan's space exploration journey has been marred by challenges in its rocket launches. Also Read | 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil The H3 model, touted as Japan's next-generation launch vehicle, experienced failures post liftoff in March. Moreover, the usually dependable solid-fuel Epsilon also encountered issues in October last year. Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × JAXA had plans to kick off Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM's) moon landing sometime between January and February 2024, This comes in the backdrop of the success of India's Chandrayaan-3 lunar exploration mission. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Japan postpones 'Moon Sniper' mission due to wind conditions

<p>China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act.</p>

<p>The issue was raised at a plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly called to discuss co-operation between the UN and the Pacific Islands Forum on Friday (August 25).</p>

<p>Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN said that Japan decided release of wastewater unilaterally disregarding public interests. This, said China, has caused risk of nuclear pollution.</p>

<p>"So far Japan has failed to address the major concerns of the international community about the long-term reliability of nuclear-contaminated water purification devices, the authenticity and accuracy of nuclear-contaminated water data, and the sophistication and validity of the discharge monitoring program. China and other stakeholders have repeatedly pointed out that if the nuclear-contaminated water is safe, then there is no need to discharge it into the sea; if it is not safe, it should not be discharged," Geng said.</p>

<p>He stated that though Japan has referred to the report from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the agency has has stressed that the water discharge is a national decision by Japan and its report is neither a recommendation nor an endorsement of that policy.</p>

<p>"The IAEA report cannot serve as a 'pass' for Japan to push forward the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water. The report cannot grant Japan legitimacy for the discharge, nor can it absolve Japan from its moral responsibility and obligations to international law," Geng said.</p>

<p>He said that ocean is the common property of all mankind and twleve years after the Fukushima disaster, Japanese government's decision to launch the discharge plan was in disregard to doubts and opposition from the international community. This, he said, would cause secondary harm to locals and even people of the world.</p>

<p>Geng said that China urges Japan to stop the wrongdoing and stop the discharge. He also asked Japan to communicate with neighboring countries with sincerity and good will, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept rigorous international oversight. </p>

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China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act.

China has raised the issue of wasterwater release from Fukushima nuclear plant in the United Nations and urged Japan to immediately stop the operation. China has termed release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean a selfish and irresponsible act. The issue was raised at a plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly called to discuss co-operation between the UN and the Pacific Islands Forum on Friday (August 25). Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN said that Japan decided release of wastewater unilaterally disregarding public interests. This, said China, has caused risk of nuclear pollution. "So far Japan has failed to address the major concerns of the international community about the long-term reliability of nuclear-contaminated water purification devices, the authenticity and accuracy of nuclear-contaminated water data, and the sophistication and validity of the discharge monitoring program. China and other stakeholders have repeatedly pointed out that if the nuclear-contaminated water is safe, then there is no need to discharge it into the sea; if it is not safe, it should not be discharged," Geng said. He stated that though Japan has referred to the report from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the agency has has stressed that the water discharge is a national decision by Japan and its report is neither a recommendation nor an endorsement of that policy. "The IAEA report cannot serve as a 'pass' for Japan to push forward the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water. The report cannot grant Japan legitimacy for the discharge, nor can it absolve Japan from its moral responsibility and obligations to international law," Geng said. He said that ocean is the common property of all mankind and twleve years after the Fukushima disaster, Japanese government's decision to launch the discharge plan was in disregard to doubts and opposition from the international community. This, he said, would cause secondary harm to locals and even people of the world. Geng said that China urges Japan to stop the wrongdoing and stop the discharge. He also asked Japan to communicate with neighboring countries with sincerity and good will, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner and accept rigorous international oversight.  You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China raises Fukushima water issue in UN, asks Japan to stop discharge

<p>In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's&nbsp;release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean. The statement, conveyed via the official Korean Central News Agency, characterised the release as "dangerous" and claimed it posed a significant threat to global security and the future of humanity.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"Japan should immediately withdraw the dangerous release of radioactive wastewater which seriously threatens the lives, safety and the future of humanity," the statement said.</p>

<p>The Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant disaster, which occurred in 2011, resulted from a catastrophic 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. These natural disasters led to the meltdown of three of the plant's reactors, resulting in a severe nuclear crisis.</p>

<h2><strong>Initiation of wastewater release</strong></h2>

<p>On August 24, Japan officially commenced the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the plant, estimated that this discharge would equate to the volume of water found in approximately 540 Olympic-sized swimming pools.</p>

<p>A live video broadcast by TEPCO depicted the start of the wastewater release. Engineers closely monitored the operation from their computer screens. The release began with the opening of valves near the seawater transport pumps at the plant.</p>

<p>Both the Japanese government and the operators of the nuclear plant have maintained that the wastewater release is safe. However, this action has garnered strong objections from various countries, including China.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-begins-releasing-wastewater-from-fukushima-nuclear-plant-operator-628601">Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination</a></p>

<h2><strong>International support and monitoring</strong></h2>

<p>The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, has endorsed the plan to release the wastewater. IAEA monitors were present on-site during the procedure to ensure compliance with safety standards. TEPCO workers are scheduled to collect water samples for analysis.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media</strong></p>

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<p>The wastewater release has sparked controversy and public outcry. Prior to the release, a small protest took place near the plant site, and approximately 100 individuals protested outside TEPCO's headquarters in Tokyo. In South Korea, more than 10 people were arrested as they attempted to enter the Japanese embassy in Seoul to protest against the release.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">China strongly criticised Japan's wastewater release plan, labelling it as "extremely selfish and irresponsible." China's Ministry of Environment expressed its intent to closely monitor and study the impact of the wastewater release on its waters.</div>

<p>TEPCO has been collecting contaminated water since 2011 as part of its efforts to cool down the damaged reactors. To date, they have accumulated approximately 1.34 million cubic meters of such water.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, North Korea's foreign ministry called for an immediate halt to Japan's release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean. The statement, conveyed via the official Korean Central News Agency, characterised the release as "dangerous" and claimed it posed a significant threat to global security and the future of humanity. "Japan should immediately withdraw the dangerous release of radioactive wastewater which seriously threatens the lives, safety and the future of humanity," the statement said. The Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant disaster, which occurred in 2011, resulted from a catastrophic 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. These natural disasters led to the meltdown of three of the plant's reactors, resulting in a severe nuclear crisis. Initiation of wastewater release On August 24, Japan officially commenced the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the plant, estimated that this discharge would equate to the volume of water found in approximately 540 Olympic-sized swimming pools. A live video broadcast by TEPCO depicted the start of the wastewater release. Engineers closely monitored the operation from their computer screens. The release began with the opening of valves near the seawater transport pumps at the plant. Both the Japanese government and the operators of the nuclear plant have maintained that the wastewater release is safe. However, this action has garnered strong objections from various countries, including China. Also read | Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination International support and monitoring The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, has endorsed the plan to release the wastewater. IAEA monitors were present on-site during the procedure to ensure compliance with safety standards. TEPCO workers are scheduled to collect water samples for analysis. Also watch | North Korea's second attempt to launch spy satellite fails: State media The wastewater release has sparked controversy and public outcry. Prior to the release, a small protest took place near the plant site, and approximately 100 individuals protested outside TEPCO's headquarters in Tokyo. In South Korea, more than 10 people were arrested as they attempted to enter the Japanese embassy in Seoul to protest against the release. China strongly criticised Japan's wastewater release plan, labelling it as "extremely selfish and irresponsible." China's Ministry of Environment expressed its intent to closely monitor and study the impact of the wastewater release on its waters. TEPCO has been collecting contaminated water since 2011 as part of its efforts to cool down the damaged reactors. To date, they have accumulated approximately 1.34 million cubic meters of such water. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

N Korea slams Japan's release of treated nuclear wastewater from Fukushima, demands immediate halt

Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant had a huge task at hand even after protests and anger warnings the country started pumping more than a million metric tons of radioactive water into the sea. Tokyo claims it is treated but not everyone is convinced. Tokyo's Electric Power Company has released footage showing the start of the Fukushima water release.

Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns

<p>Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant.</p>

<p>It also asked its people “not to speak Japanese loudly” while out in public as it may attract any unwarranted action.</p>

<p>"When going out, try to be cautious, such as not speaking Japanese loudly unnecessarily," the Japanese embassy said in an alert posted on its website on Friday.</p>

<p>The embassy also warned its people to "pay close attention to the surroundings of the embassy" if planning to visit.</p>

<h2><strong>Japanese consulates in Hong Kong and South Korea on alert</strong></h2>

<p>Similar warnings were also issued in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and South Korea asking citizens to “behave cautiously”.</p>

<p>Japan's consulate in Hong Kong has warned of protests there relating to the water release, after 100 marchers took to the streets on Thursday (Aug 24) objecting to the discharge.</p>

<p>In South Korea, Japan's embassy issued a notice advising its citizens there to avoid "unnecessary trouble" due to a rally planned around the embassy.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the police in Seoul arrested 16 protesters who entered the Japanese embassy in the capital city.</p>

<h2><strong>Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns</strong></h2>

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<p>Meanwhile, China has banned all seafood from Japan after the discharge of 1m tonnes of radioactive water from the ruined Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>The ban began immediately affecting all imports of “aquatic products” including seafood.</p>

<h2><strong>China defends marine food ban move</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Justifying its move, China’s customs agency said that it risks the “radioactive contamination of food safety”. China’s foreign ministry said it was an “extremely selfish and irresponsible act”.</p>

<p>But Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco), the company that manages the plant, said rapid tests of samples taken from the first batch of released wastewater showed radioactivity levels well within safe limits.</p>

<p>“We confirmed that the analysed value is equal to the calculated concentration and that the analysed value is below 1,500 becquerels per litre,” a Tepco spokesperson, Keisuke Matsuo, told reporters. The national safety standard is 60,000 becquerels a litre.</p>

<p>Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also said that his government used diplomatic channels to request China to lift the ban.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“We strongly encourage discussion among experts based on scientific grounds,” Kishida told reporters, according to the Kyodo news agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant.

Japan issued a warning on Friday (Aug 25) to its citizens living in China to remain incognito for a while after Beijing slammed Tokyo over the release of radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant. It also asked its people “not to speak Japanese loudly” while out in public as it may attract any unwarranted action. "When going out, try to be cautious, such as not speaking Japanese loudly unnecessarily," the Japanese embassy said in an alert posted on its website on Friday. The embassy also warned its people to "pay close attention to the surroundings of the embassy" if planning to visit. Japanese consulates in Hong Kong and South Korea on alert Similar warnings were also issued in Chinese-ruled Hong Kong and South Korea asking citizens to “behave cautiously”. Japan's consulate in Hong Kong has warned of protests there relating to the water release, after 100 marchers took to the streets on Thursday (Aug 24) objecting to the discharge. In South Korea, Japan's embassy issued a notice advising its citizens there to avoid "unnecessary trouble" due to a rally planned around the embassy. On Thursday, the police in Seoul arrested 16 protesters who entered the Japanese embassy in the capital city. Tokyo begins releasing Fukushima wastewater, neighbours raise concerns Meanwhile, China has banned all seafood from Japan after the discharge of 1m tonnes of radioactive water from the ruined Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. The ban began immediately affecting all imports of “aquatic products” including seafood. China defends marine food ban move Justifying its move, China’s customs agency said that it risks the “radioactive contamination of food safety”. China’s foreign ministry said it was an “extremely selfish and irresponsible act”. But Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco), the company that manages the plant, said rapid tests of samples taken from the first batch of released wastewater showed radioactivity levels well within safe limits. “We confirmed that the analysed value is equal to the calculated concentration and that the analysed value is below 1,500 becquerels per litre,” a Tepco spokesperson, Keisuke Matsuo, told reporters. The national safety standard is 60,000 becquerels a litre. Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also said that his government used diplomatic channels to request China to lift the ban. “We strongly encourage discussion among experts based on scientific grounds,” Kishida told reporters, according to the Kyodo news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Don’t speak loudly’: Japan issues warning to citizens living in China over Fukushima water discharge row

<p>Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors.</p>

<p>A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens.</p>

<p>"Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via&nbsp;video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters.</p>

<p>The nuclear plant and Japanese government have&nbsp;been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China.</p>

<p>The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago.</p>

<p>International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure.</p>

<p>TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>'Like an atomic bomb'</strong></h2>

<p>The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo.</p>

<p>"It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>More than 10 people have been&nbsp;arrested after they tried&nbsp;entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release.</p>

<p>China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters.</p>

<p>Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors.</p>

<p>There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean.

Japan on Thursday (August 24) began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima-Daiich nuclear plant, said TEPCO, the operator of the plant. The discharge will release around 540 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water into the Pacific Ocean. In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant was destroyed after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami and caused meltdowns of three of its reactors. A video broadcast from TEPCO showed the wastewater release had begun. The live video showed engineers sitting behind computer screens. "Now, valves near the seawater transport pumps are opening," a TEPCO official said via video link from the site broadcast at the company's Tokyo headquarters. The nuclear plant and Japanese government have been insisting that the release of wastewater is safe, but the operation has generated strong reaction from countries including China. The release is a vital step in decommissioning the nuclear plants which saw one of the world's worst nuclear accidents 12 years ago. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's atomic watchdog, has endorsed the plan of release of wastewater. The monitors from the IAEA were on site for the procedure. TEPCO workers will take water samples later on Thursday. 'Like an atomic bomb' The release of wastewater has been a controversial topic. Ahead of the release, there was a small protest near the site and about 100 others protested outside TEPCO headquarters in Tokyo. "It's like dumping an atomic bomb in the ocean. Japan is the first country that was attacked with an atomic bomb in the world, and the prime minister of the country made this decision," said Kenichi Sato, 68, as quoted by Reuters. More than 10 people have been arrested after they tried entering the Japanese embassy in South Korean capital Seoul to protest against the wastewater release. China on Thursday slammed Japan's plan as "extremely selfish and irresponsible". Chinese environment ministry has said that it will "track and study" impact of wastewater release on its waters. Since 2011, TEPCO has collected 1.34 million cubic metres of contaminated water as it cooled down the wrecked reactors. There are four releases of treated water planned from Thursday until March 2024. First discharge will take about 17 days. In this fiscal year, about 5 trillion becquerels - a measure of radioactivity - of tritium will be released, said TEPCO. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears of sea contamination

<p>The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Takashima Shingo was posted as a resident doctor at a hospital in Kobe City when he committed suicide last May, as per the public broadcaster NHK.</p>

<p>According to the lawyers of the family, Takashima had to work more than 207 hours of overtime in the month of April and could not take a day off for three months, reported NHK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Hospital Konan Medical Centre refuted the allegations in a press conference. However, in June, the labour inspection body of the government ruled that the man's death was a work-related incident because of prolonged working hours, as per NHK, which also highlighted the immense pressure that health care workers face.</p>

<p>For long, Japan has battled a persistent overwork culture, as employees across different sectors report punishing hours, deference to the company and high pressure from supervisors, as per the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-us-south-korea-and-japan-over-their-statements-on-south-china-sea-627643">China slams US, South Korea and Japan over their statements on South China Sea</a></p>

<p>The mental health toll and increasing stress have also caused a phenomenon called “karoshi,” or “death by overwork”, which resulted in legislation aimed at preventing injury and death from excessive work hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a press conference last Friday (August 18), the family of Takashima claimed that the young man was driven to desperation and expressed their sorrow over his sudden demise.</p>

<h2><strong>'Too hard', complained the man who committed suicide</strong></h2>

<p>Before his suicide, his mother Junko Takashima stated that the doctor would complain “it was too hard” and that “no one would help him,” as per a video published by local media of the news conference.</p>

<p>“'No one is looking out for me,' he kept telling me. I think the environment put him over the edge. My son will not become a kind doctor, nor will he be able to save patients and contribute to society,” she stated. “However, I sincerely hope that the working environment for doctors will improve&nbsp;so that the same thing will not happen again in the future," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch</strong></p>

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<p>The brother of Takashima, speaking at the news conference, said, “No matter how we look at my brother’s work hours, 200 hours (of overtime) is an unbelievable number, and I don’t think the hospital is taking a solid approach to labour management in the first place.”</p>

<p>Last week, the Konan Medical Centre pushed back the allegations in the press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are many times when (doctors) spend time studying on their own and sleeping according to their physiological needs. Due to the very high degree of freedom, it is not possible to accurately determine working hours," said a spokesperson.</p>

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The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years.

The family members of a 26-year-old doctor, who committed suicide last year, claimed that work-life imbalance and working more than 200 hours overtime every month took a toll on him as they called for a change in the overwork culture which has plagued the country for years. Takashima Shingo was posted as a resident doctor at a hospital in Kobe City when he committed suicide last May, as per the public broadcaster NHK. According to the lawyers of the family, Takashima had to work more than 207 hours of overtime in the month of April and could not take a day off for three months, reported NHK. Last week, Hospital Konan Medical Centre refuted the allegations in a press conference. However, in June, the labour inspection body of the government ruled that the man's death was a work-related incident because of prolonged working hours, as per NHK, which also highlighted the immense pressure that health care workers face. For long, Japan has battled a persistent overwork culture, as employees across different sectors report punishing hours, deference to the company and high pressure from supervisors, as per the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. ALSO READ | China slams US, South Korea and Japan over their statements on South China Sea The mental health toll and increasing stress have also caused a phenomenon called “karoshi,” or “death by overwork”, which resulted in legislation aimed at preventing injury and death from excessive work hours. In a press conference last Friday (August 18), the family of Takashima claimed that the young man was driven to desperation and expressed their sorrow over his sudden demise. 'Too hard', complained the man who committed suicide Before his suicide, his mother Junko Takashima stated that the doctor would complain “it was too hard” and that “no one would help him,” as per a video published by local media of the news conference. “'No one is looking out for me,' he kept telling me. I think the environment put him over the edge. My son will not become a kind doctor, nor will he be able to save patients and contribute to society,” she stated. “However, I sincerely hope that the working environment for doctors will improve so that the same thing will not happen again in the future," she added. WATCH | Japan: Fukushima Nuclear plant to begin release of 1.34 metric tonnes of water | WION Dispatch The brother of Takashima, speaking at the news conference, said, “No matter how we look at my brother’s work hours, 200 hours (of overtime) is an unbelievable number, and I don’t think the hospital is taking a solid approach to labour management in the first place.” Last week, the Konan Medical Centre pushed back the allegations in the press conference. “There are many times when (doctors) spend time studying on their own and sleeping according to their physiological needs. Due to the very high degree of freedom, it is not possible to accurately determine working hours," said a spokesperson. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan: Family of young doctor claims working overtime for over 200 hours a month took his life

Japan's plan to release treated radioactive water into the ocean, led several to protest in south korea's capital. Demonstrators staged a rally in central Seoul, to show their disagreement against the plan. The plan is all set to be implemented on August 24th from the destroyed Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Japan Fukushima wastewater release plan: China bans all Japanese seafood imports

<p>Japan began&nbsp;releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.</p>

<p>An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has&nbsp;accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident.</p>

<p>The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted.</p>

<p>The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan.</p>

<p>The release of water has started&nbsp;a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food.</p>

<h2><strong>How will contaminated water get discharged?</strong></h2>

<p>The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water.</p>

<p>The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one&nbsp;kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel.</p>

<p>This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way.</p>

<p>According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin.</p>

<p>When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014.</p>

<p>It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant.</p>

<h2><strong>The safety concerns </strong></h2>

<p>Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied.</p>

<p>The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment.</p>

<p>On Tuesday&nbsp;(Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge.</p>

<p>The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration&nbsp;of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment.</p>

<h2><strong>The opposition</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release.</p>

<p>But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer."</p>

<p>Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health".</p>

<p>Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said.</p>

<p>Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products.</p>

<p>Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima.</p>

<h2><strong>Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood</strong></h2>

<p>Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food&nbsp;safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment".</p>

<p>Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health.</p>

<p>"There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge.</p>

<p>The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed.</p>

<p>Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries.

Japan began releasing millions of tonnes of treated radioactive water from the tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday (August 24), a move that has already triggered strong opposition from neighbouring countries. An estimated 1.34 million tonnes of radioactive water— enough to fill 500 Olympic-size pools—has accumulated in the tank at the site since the 2011 tsunami incident. The water will be released over 30 years after being filtered and diluted. The Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco)—the nuclear plant’s operator—has been designated to execute the plan. The release of water has started a month after Japan’s nuclear regulator gave the nod to Tepco to start releasing the water, which has been termed “safe” by the Japanese government and the International Atomic Energy Agency amidst fears expressed by neighbouring countries that the water may contaminate food. How will contaminated water get discharged? The 1.3 million tonnes of radioactive water that is stored in huge tanks on the site has been filtered through Tepco’s advanced liquid processing system (Alps) to remove most radioactive elements except for tritium—an isotope of hydrogen that is difficult to separate from water. The “treated” water, as Japan has objected to the use of the word “contaminated”, will be diluted with seawater so that the concentration of tritium is well below regulatory-approved levels before being released into the ocean one kilometre from the shoreline via an undersea tunnel. This practice is common around the world and regulatory authorities support dealing with the Fukushima water in this way. According to experts, tritium is relatively harmless as its radiation is not strong enough to affect human skin. When ingested at levels above those in the released water, it can raise cancer risks, a Scientific American article said in 2014. It is estimated that the water discharge would take decades to complete, with ongoing filtering and dilution, alongside the planned decommissioning of the plant. The safety concerns Though the Japanese government and the IAEA have asserted that the so-called “treated” water is safe, environmental activists have raised concerns arguing that all the possible impacts have not been studied. The UN nuclear watchdog, which approved the plan in July, says that Japan is meeting the international standards of discharging the water and reiterated that it would have a “negligible” impact on people and the environment. On Tuesday (Aug 22), Greenpeace said that the radiological risks have not been fully assessed and that the biological impacts of tritium, carbon-14, strontium-90 and iodine-129 —to be released with the water —"have been ignored”. But Tepco and Japan have argued that the filtering process will remove strontium-90 and iodine-129, adding that the concentration of carbon-14 in the contaminated water would be far lower than its regulatory standard for discharge. The government will take "appropriate measures, including immediate suspension of the discharge" if an unusually high concentration of radioactive materials is detected, the Japanese government document said, according to Reuters news agency. The South Korean government, too, concurred with Japan, saying that its own study conducted recently has indicated that the water release meets international standards and said it respects the IAEA's assessment. The opposition Apart from Japan’s neighbouring countries, many people, including fishermen in Japan, have expressed opposition fearing that the discharged treated water might affect their livelihoods. On Tuesday, a crowd of protesters staged a rally outside the prime minister's official residence, urging the government to stop the release. But the most vocal opposition came from China, which accused Japan of treating the ocean like its "private sewer." Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated Beijing's objection on Tuesday, adding it would take "necessary measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and public health". Japan is "putting its own self-interest over the long-term well-being of all humankind" with the release of wastewater, Wang said. Hong Kong said it would "immediately activate" import curbs on some Japanese food products. Both South Korea and China have already banned fish imports from around Fukushima. Hong Kong's ban on Japanese seafood Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the release was "irresponsible" and posed "impossible risks to food safety" and risked "irreparable pollution and destruction of the marine environment". Lee, in a post on his Facebook account, said he had told Environment Secretary Tse Chin-wan and relevant departments to immediately activate import controls to protect food safety and public health. "There is no timetable at this point about how long the ban will last," Tse told a press conference, adding that a decision would depend on data and information from Japan after the discharge. The measure covers live, frozen, refrigerated, dried aquatic products, sea salt and seaweed. Hong Kong is Japan's second-largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Row over planned release of radioactive water from Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant

The Japanese Prime Minister has announced that the wastewater released from the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant. Japan says that the discharge of treated radioactive water is safe.

Row over release of radioactive water as Fukushima water release to begin on Thursday | WION

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