A massive wildfire in Japan has forced evacuation orders in Otsuchi as flames spread rapidly through affected areas. Authorities are working to contain the blaze while residents are being moved to safety. Emergency response teams remain on high alert as weather conditions challenge firefighting efforts.


Japan Wildfire: Otsuchi Under Evacuation Order

Japan’s iconic vending machines, found everywhere from street corners to mountain tops, are now facing a surprising challenge: falling demand.
Rising prices and changing consumer habits are pushing operators to rethink a business once built on convenience and fixed pricing.

Japan Vending Machines Face Demand Slowdown 

Japan’s traditional bathhouse industry is facing a deepening crisis as rising operational costs, aging infrastructure, and declining customer numbers put pressure on operators. Once a cornerstone of community life, many sento and onsen facilities are struggling to stay afloat amid changing lifestyles and economic challenges. Industry voices are calling for support and innovation to preserve this cultural heritage as closures continue across the country.


Japan's Bathhouses Raise Alarm As Industry Crisis Deepens

Wildfires are rapidly spreading in northern Japan, forcing thousands to evacuate as flames move dangerously close to residential areas.

Authorities warn the situation remains critical, with strong firefighting efforts underway to contain the blaze.

Japan Wildfires: Thousands Evacuate as Flames Spread

Facing a historic decline in births, Japan is trying a new approach—paying young singles to use dating apps. A prefecture is offering subsidies to residents aged 20–39 in a bid to encourage relationships and tackle the falling birth rate, which recently hit its lowest level since 1899. The move reflects growing urgency as Japan grapples with an ageing population and shrinking workforce.


Japan's Latest Bid to Tackle Low Birth Rates

Northern Japan is battling fast-moving forest fires, with more than 1,800 residents ordered to evacuate after blazes broke out in Iwate Prefecture on Wednesday.

Japan Wildfire: Massive Blaze Engulfs Rural Otsuchi Area

China vowed to resist what it called Japan's "reckless militarisation" after Tokyo eased decades-old arms export rules, as it seeks to enter the international weapons market. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi argues that Japan must relax its rules on weapons exports to bolster national defence while also trying to boost the domestic arms industry as a driver of economic growth.


Japan Prepares for Arms Market Export Boom, Lifts 8-Decade Ban

The Japanese government under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has approved a major defense policy shift, allowing the export of lethal weapons, including warships and missiles, departing from its post-war pacifist stance. This policy, approved by the cabinet, lifts a ban on transferring offensive weapons to 17 partner countries. 


Japan Lifts Arms Export Ban in Historic Shift; Beijing Calls Move Reckless Militarisation

Takaichi Govt Approves Major Defence Shift; Japanese Warships, Missiles & Weapons Now Eligible for Export

Japan Is on High Alert After a Powerful 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake. While Tsunami Warnings Have Now Been Lifted, Authorities Say Risk of a Much Bigger Quake—‘megaquake’—is Now Unusually High Over the Next Few Days. Wion’s Kanishka Sarkar Speaks to Benoit Hardy-Chartrand, Researcher, Temple University Japan, to Understand What This Means for People on the Ground and How Prepared Is Japan Today After the 2011 Disaster


Japan Earthquake: High Alert for 'Megaquake', Tsunami Warning Lifted

Japan is stepping up its military posture after easing long-standing restrictions on arms exports, marking a significant shift in its post-war defence policy. The move is expected to expand Japan’s role in global security cooperation and defence partnerships, even as it draws reactions from regional powers amid rising tensions in East Asia.

Japan Steps Up Military Push with Relaxed Arms Export Rules

<p>Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has relaxed the decade-old ban on the export of lethal weapons, a decision which hints at remilitarisation of Japan. In a social media post on Tuesday, Japan's Prime Minister said that they have amended the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology", she said that in an increasingly severe environment, “no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone”. This marks a shift from its long-term commitment to post-WW2 pacifism and is likely to alarm Beijing.&nbsp;</p><p>"Until now, the overseas transfer of domestically produced finished products had been limited to search and rescue, transportation, surveillance, mine countermeasures (so-called "five categories"), but with this amendment, transfers of all defence equipment will in principle become possible," wrote Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.</p><h2>What was the earlier policy?</h2><p>Previously, exports were largely limited to five categories: rescue, transport, surveillance, warning and minesweeping equipment. The Prime Minister did not specify which weapons the new amendment made available for export. But it is believed that Japan can now export high-end lethal hardware, including fighter jets, missiles, and warships. Exports were initially restricted to 17 countries, which had already signed defence equipment and the transfer of technology with Japan. The US is one of the countries that is eligible to receive lethal weapons from Japan. However, it remains subject to government screening and controls on transfers to third countries.&nbsp;</p><p>"There is absolutely no change in our commitment to upholding the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for over 80 years since the war," wrote Takaichi.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-un-complaint-us-seizure-touska-ship-hormuz-tensions-1776754157171"><strong>Iran files UN complaint over Touska seizure by US, warns escalation as ceasefire deadline approaches</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Beijing is alarmed at the remilitarisation of Japan&nbsp;</h2><p>Japan is one of the most historically resilient civilisations. The Chinese have already endured some of the most harrowing crimes from the Japanese Imperial army in the Second World War. The remilitarisation of Japan has been criticised by China but welcomed by its allies like Australia. Beijing on Tuesday said that it was "seriously concerned" about the “reckless militarisation” of Japan.</p><p>"The international community, including China, will remain highly vigilant on this, and firmly resist Japan's reckless new-style militarisation," said the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun.</p><p>Japan has steadily increased military spending in recent years to 2 per cent of GDP, and it is expected to rise further. These build up hints at another emerging flash point in the East China Sea, near Taiwan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Japan lifts decades-old ban on lethal weapons exports under PM Sanae Takaichi, alarming China over its continued remilitarisation and new flashpoints emerging in the East China Sea.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has relaxed the decade-old ban on the export of lethal weapons, a decision which hints at remilitarisation of Japan. In a social media post on Tuesday, Japan's Prime Minister said that they have amended the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology", she said that in an increasingly severe environment, “no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone”. This marks a shift from its long-term commitment to post-WW2 pacifism and is likely to alarm Beijing. "Until now, the overseas transfer of domestically produced finished products had been limited to search and rescue, transportation, surveillance, mine countermeasures (so-called "five categories"), but with this amendment, transfers of all defence equipment will in principle become possible," wrote Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. What was the earlier policy? Previously, exports were largely limited to five categories: rescue, transport, surveillance, warning and minesweeping equipment. The Prime Minister did not specify which weapons the new amendment made available for export. But it is believed that Japan can now export high-end lethal hardware, including fighter jets, missiles, and warships. Exports were initially restricted to 17 countries, which had already signed defence equipment and the transfer of technology with Japan. The US is one of the countries that is eligible to receive lethal weapons from Japan. However, it remains subject to government screening and controls on transfers to third countries. "There is absolutely no change in our commitment to upholding the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for over 80 years since the war," wrote Takaichi. Also Read: Iran files UN complaint over Touska seizure by US, warns escalation as ceasefire deadline approaches Beijing is alarmed at the remilitarisation of Japan Japan is one of the most historically resilient civilisations. The Chinese have already endured some of the most harrowing crimes from the Japanese Imperial army in the Second World War. The remilitarisation of Japan has been criticised by China but welcomed by its allies like Australia. Beijing on Tuesday said that it was "seriously concerned" about the “reckless militarisation” of Japan. "The international community, including China, will remain highly vigilant on this, and firmly resist Japan's reckless new-style militarisation," said the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Japan has steadily increased military spending in recent years to 2 per cent of GDP, and it is expected to rise further. These build up hints at another emerging flash point in the East China Sea, near Taiwan.

<p>Japan lifts decades-old ban on lethal weapons exports under PM Sanae Takaichi, alarming China over its continued remilitarisation and new flashpoints emerging in the East China Sea.</p>

Japan lifts ban on lethal weapon exports, shifts from decades of pacifism

Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of the possibility of a megaquake following a powerful earthquake off northern Japan, urging residents in vulnerable coastal regions to remain alert and prepared. Officials stressed the advisory is precautionary, not a prediction, but called on communities to review evacuation plans and emergency supplies amid ongoing aftershock risks.

Japan Earthquake: Japan Meteorological Agency Warns of a Megaquake 

China has issued a warning to Japan over what it calls the “flexing” of military strength, amid rising regional tensions. The remarks come as Japan moves to scrap long-standing defence export restrictions, signaling a shift in its security policy. 


China Warns Japan Against Flexing Military Strength; Japan Scraps Defence Export Restrictions

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake has struck Japan, prompting authorities to issue alerts for a potential mega-quake risk along affected regions. Emergency services are closely monitoring seismic activity as aftershocks continue to shake parts of the country. Tsunami warnings and evacuation advisories have been considered in coastal areas as Japan remains on high alert.

Japan Earthquake: 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan, Alert for Potential Mega-Quake Issued 

Japan issued a special advisory warning of an increased risk of earthquakes at magnitude 8.0 or stronger, after a powerful jolt rattled the country's north and prompted a tsunami warning.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said in a statement that "the likelihood of a new, huge earthquake occurring is relatively higher than during normal times". The warning for the northern region came a few hours after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the area, shaking large buildings in the capital Tokyo, hundreds of kilometres from the epicentre.

Japan Earthquake: Mega-Quake Risk Escalates After Powerful Japan Tremor

Japanese authorities are warning that a second tsunami may be on the way after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the country's north-east coast. An initial 70cm  wave was recorded at the Miyako port in Iwate prefecture, with waves as tall as 3m (10 feet) forecast by the apan's Meteorological Agency (JMA). The JMA warns, "Evacuate immediately from coastal regions and riverside areas to a safer place such as high ground or an evacuation building," it said, warning that damage due to tsunami waves was expected. "Tsunami waves are expected to hit repeatedly. Do not leave safe ground until the warning is lifted," it said.


Japan Earthquake: Japan On High Alert For Mega-Quake, Over 170,000 Residents Ordered To Evacuate

Japan Earthquake: Japan Sounds Alarm Over Possible Catastrophic Earthquake

Japan Earthquake: Japan on Edge, Fears of Second Tsunami After 7.5 Magnitude Triggers 70 Cm Tsunami

Japan has gone on high alert after North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles into waters off its eastern coast, marking another escalation in regional tensions. Authorities in Japan activated emergency monitoring protocols while coordinating closely with the United States and South Korea.


Japan on High Alert After North Korea Fires Multiple Ballistic Missiles

Japan has announced plans to significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels as part of a long-term energy transition strategy aimed at boosting renewable energy and nuclear power usage. The government says the shift will be gradual but steady, focusing on energy security, carbon reduction, and technological innovation.

Japan Targets Sharp Cut in Fossil Fuel Dependence; Energy Transition Gradually Advances 

Japan will host the ICC Men's T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifiers, marking a major boost for cricket’s growth in the region. The tournament will be staged at the Asian Games Stadium, highlighting Japan’s expanding role in global cricket development.


Japan Will Host ICC Men's T20 World Cup EAP Qualifiers; Asian Games Stadium to Host Tournament

Terra Drone has partnered with Ukrainian start-up Amazing Drones to develop and expand production of low-cost interceptor drones, marking Tokyo’s growing role in Ukraine’s defense technology sector. The collaboration includes investment and the joint rollout of the new Terra A1 interceptor drone, designed to counter hostile UAV threats at far lower cost than traditional missile defenses.


Japan's Terra Drone Partners Ukrainian Start-Up | Low-Cost Interceptor Drones in Focus 

The ICC has confirmed Japan will host T20 World Cup qualifiers for the first time. The matches will take place at the cricket-specific stadium for this year's Asian Games.


Japan to Host T20 World Cup Qualifiers at Asian Games Venue

Japan has confirmed that a suspected ballistic missile launched by North Korea landed just outside its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), raising fresh security concerns in the region. Tokyo said the launch did not cause any reported damage but warned that Pyongyang’s repeated missile tests threaten regional stability.


Japan Says N Korean Missile Landed Just Outside its Exclusive Economic Zone

French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Japan has gone viral after a surprising moment during his tour caught global attention. The incident, widely shared across social media, highlights the lighter side of high-level diplomacy while drawing massive online reactions. Macron’s Japan trip focuses on strengthening ties, but this unexpected clip is what everyone is talking about.


Macron, Takaichi Strike Dragon Ball Series' Kamehameha Pose!

US President Donald Trump hosted Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House’s Oval Office, reaffirming the enduring US–Japan alliance and discussing shared global priorities. The meeting comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing US–Iran war, and covered cooperation on security, economic ties, and regional stability.


US-Japan Ties: Takaichi-Trump Meet In Washington To Discuss Iran War, Trade Deal 

Japan’s iconic sakura season has begun earlier than usual this year, with cherry blossoms blooming ahead of schedule across several regions. The early arrival is being linked to warmer temperatures and shifting climate patterns, raising concerns among experts.

Every year, the cherry blossom season draws millions of visitors for “hanami” celebrations, symbolising renewal and the fleeting beauty of life. As crowds gather under blooming trees, the early bloom is also sparking discussions about climate change and its growing impact on seasonal cycles.

Japan’s Most Iconic Season Takes Hold, 'Sakura' Season Arrives Earlier Than Usual

Big changes are coming for foreigners looking to live in japan
And they could hit the wallet hard.
The Japanese government has passed a new law that will dramatically increase visa and residency fees,
In some cases by as much as 2,900 percent.
The move is already sparking controversy,
Especially as the country faces a growing labour shortage.

Japan Raises Visa Fees Up to 16 Times

<p>Japan's youngest governor, Takato Ishida, has gone viral on social media for his incredibly good looks. The 36-year-old was elected the governor of Fukui Prefecture in January this year, becoming the youngest incumbent prefectural governor in the country. Ishida drew admiration right after the elections when he posted an Instagram video on February 1. It received 150,000 likes and comments admiring Ishida, and almost all of them were about his looks. He delivered the message in Japanese, yet people who did not understand a word flocked to express their admiration. "He’s so handsome I’m already in a mini panic," someone wrote, while another added, "Yes, I agree with you even though I don't get a word except "ARIGATO GOZAIMASU".</p><h2><strong>Netizens floored by Ishida's intense good looks</strong></h2><p>Now, in March, he is attracting renewed attention and has exploded on social media, with several Instagram posts and reels focused solely on his good looks and how he is too handsome to be a politician. Ishida recently shared new photos and updates from the assembly and a special committee on harassment countermeasures. This triggered a flurry of reactions once again as people started showing their admiration in their comments. A user wrote, "Bro is real life Street Fighter’s Ryu". Another added, “Anti-harassment policy in Japan was never that important for me as now.”</p><h2><strong>Takato Ishida's political career</strong></h2><p>The independent candidate was elected after his predecessor resigned over a sexual harassment scandal. Ishida, who is a former foreign ministry official, defeated two rival candidates - Kenichi Yamada, a 67-year-old independent, and Yukie Kanemoto, 67, an official at the Japanese Communist Party’s Fukui prefectural branch, according to Japan Times. Ishida has been posted in Washington, Zambia and Melbourne in the past. He addressed the issue of sexual harassment in his inaugural message. “No form of harassment can ever be tolerated,” he told reporters.</p>

Japanese politician Takato Ishida has gone viral for his good looks, with people from every nook of the world admiring him. He was recently elected the governor of Fukui Prefecture. His first post after winning garnered attention, and he has again gone viral with new pictures on Instagram.

Japan's youngest governor, Takato Ishida, has gone viral on social media for his incredibly good looks. The 36-year-old was elected the governor of Fukui Prefecture in January this year, becoming the youngest incumbent prefectural governor in the country. Ishida drew admiration right after the elections when he posted an Instagram video on February 1. It received 150,000 likes and comments admiring Ishida, and almost all of them were about his looks. He delivered the message in Japanese, yet people who did not understand a word flocked to express their admiration. "He’s so handsome I’m already in a mini panic," someone wrote, while another added, "Yes, I agree with you even though I don't get a word except "ARIGATO GOZAIMASU". Netizens floored by Ishida's intense good looks Now, in March, he is attracting renewed attention and has exploded on social media, with several Instagram posts and reels focused solely on his good looks and how he is too handsome to be a politician. Ishida recently shared new photos and updates from the assembly and a special committee on harassment countermeasures. This triggered a flurry of reactions once again as people started showing their admiration in their comments. A user wrote, "Bro is real life Street Fighter’s Ryu". Another added, “Anti-harassment policy in Japan was never that important for me as now.” Takato Ishida's political career The independent candidate was elected after his predecessor resigned over a sexual harassment scandal. Ishida, who is a former foreign ministry official, defeated two rival candidates - Kenichi Yamada, a 67-year-old independent, and Yukie Kanemoto, 67, an official at the Japanese Communist Party’s Fukui prefectural branch, according to Japan Times. Ishida has been posted in Washington, Zambia and Melbourne in the past. He addressed the issue of sexual harassment in his inaugural message. “No form of harassment can ever be tolerated,” he told reporters.

<p>Japanese politician Takato Ishida has gone viral for his good looks, with people from every nook of the world admiring him. He was recently elected the governor of Fukui Prefecture. His first post after winning garnered attention, and he has again gone viral with new pictures on Instagram.</p>

Takato Ishida, young Japanese politician, has become a social media eye candy for his intense good looks

Japan is stepping up preparations for a potential conflict, fortifying a remote island and constructing new missile shelters.

The move is part of broader efforts to strengthen defences and protect civilians as regional security concerns grow. Authorities are focusing on preparedness measures in vulnerable island areas.

Japan Fortifies Remote Island, Builds Missile Shelters Amid War Fears | WION

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