Japan&nbsp;bid farewell to former prime minister Shinzo Abe with a state funeral that has caused a massive controversy around the country. Abe was assassinated during a campaign rally on July 8 and his death has revealed a deep connection between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Unification Church – a issue that has led to widespread protests in Japan.

Reigning PM Fumio Kishida has also felt the burden of the recent controversies as his popularity has taken a hit and the decision to hold a state funeral for Abe has also not gone down well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cuba-legalises-same-sex-marriages-in-landmark-referendum-after-citizens-approve-new-family-code-519953">Cuba legalises same-sex marriages in landmark referendum</a>

With Japan going through an economic crisis at the moment, a number of people have strongly opposed the plan to hold the state funeral at an expense of around $11.5 million. This will be the first state funeral held in Japan since 1967 and it has led to a number of protests in the past few days.

However, Reuters reported that around 4,300 people were expected to attend the state funeral with leaders from around the world also reaching Japan. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States Vice President Kamala Harris will be the biggest names in attendance.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cancelled at the last moment due to Hurricane Fiona.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-russians-flew-to-georgia-amid-putins-mobilisation-announcement-519944">Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement</a>

According to media reports, Abe’s ashes will be carried to the venue with the general public offering flowers at designated places. He will also be honoured with 19 rounds from a cannon.

The police have deployed huge number of personnel all around Tokyo to ensure safety for all major leaders and a number of roads and schools will remain shut during the ceremony.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Japan bid farewell to former prime minister Shinzo Abe with a state funeral that has caused a massive controversy around the country. Abe was assassinated during a campaign rally on July 8 and his death has revealed a deep connection between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Unification Church – a issue that has led to widespread protests in Japan.

Japan bid farewell to former prime minister Shinzo Abe with a state funeral that has caused a massive controversy around the country. Abe was assassinated during a campaign rally on July 8 and his death has revealed a deep connection between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Unification Church – a issue that has led to widespread protests in Japan. Reigning PM Fumio Kishida has also felt the burden of the recent controversies as his popularity has taken a hit and the decision to hold a state funeral for Abe has also not gone down well. Also read | Cuba legalises same-sex marriages in landmark referendum With Japan going through an economic crisis at the moment, a number of people have strongly opposed the plan to hold the state funeral at an expense of around $11.5 million. This will be the first state funeral held in Japan since 1967 and it has led to a number of protests in the past few days. However, Reuters reported that around 4,300 people were expected to attend the state funeral with leaders from around the world also reaching Japan. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States Vice President Kamala Harris will be the biggest names in attendance. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cancelled at the last moment due to Hurricane Fiona. Also read | Thousands of Russians flee to Georgia amid Putin's mobilisation announcement According to media reports, Abe’s ashes will be carried to the venue with the general public offering flowers at designated places. He will also be honoured with 19 rounds from a cannon. The police have deployed huge number of personnel all around Tokyo to ensure safety for all major leaders and a number of roads and schools will remain shut during the ceremony.

Japan bids farewell to ex-PM Shinzo Abe with controversial state funeral

Japan's factory activity growth hit a 20-month low in September, as firms struggled with a global slowdown and pressure from high energy and raw material prices that was exacerbated by a weak yen.

Japan's factory activity expansion slows down

IN PICS | Why state funeral of ex-Japan PM Shinzo Abe has resulted in protests

Ahead of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral, a former diplomat, now dismissed after Myanmar’s military took over, criticised Japan for inviting the head of the Myanmar Embassy in Tokyo.&nbsp;

According to Japan Times, Aung Soe Moe said that inviting Myanmar's incumbent ambassador to Japan, Soe Han, would be a de facto recognition of the junta, given the state funeral will be attended by foreign leaders and representatives.&nbsp;

“We, Myanmar residents in Japan, have asked the Japanese Foreign Ministry not to invite anyone from the military to Mr Abe’s state funeral, a major international event,” said Aung Soe Moe, to the press in Tokyo.&nbsp;

He added, “What generals want is official recognition of their regime by the international community and to make the takeover of government a fait accompli.” Aung Soe Moe went on to cite the example of the UK which did not allow Myanmar’s representatives to attend Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, earlier this month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-why-state-funeral-of-ex-japan-pm-shinzo-abe-has-resulted-in-protests-519677">IN PICS | Why state funeral of ex-Japan PM Shinzo Abe has resulted in protests</a>

He also called for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi to take a firm stance against the junta following the coup.&nbsp;

While Japan did not invite coup leader and army chief Min Aung Hlaing it would not make a difference if Prime Minister Kishida’s government allows the junta-appointed ambassador to attend a state-level event, the former diplomat noted.&nbsp;

Aung Soe Moe was dismissed after he joined the pro-democracy movement against the country’s military rule and is now reportedly working from Japan to bring democracy back to Myanmar, the local media reported.&nbsp;

He said that he and other pro-democracy advocates do not understand why the Japanese government would invite the representative of a violent regime which has quashed dissent and even targeted women and children, for the funeral of a former leader who himself was a victim of violence, reported the Japan Times.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-army-helicopters-target-school-killing-13-people-including-7-children-518059">Myanmar: Army helicopters target school, killing 13 people including 7 children</a>

“We oppose Japan letting the figure who we do not see as our representative attend Tuesday’s event,” said Aung Soe Moe. He also called for Tokyo to “sever ties with the Myanmar military immediately.” Notably, Japan has condemned the coup in Myanmar, however, this invitation to the junta is “not fair to Myanmar people,” said the former diplomat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral, a former diplomat, now dismissed after Myanmar’s military took over, criticised Japan for inviting the head of the Myanmar Embassy in Tokyo.

Ahead of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral, a former diplomat, now dismissed after Myanmar’s military took over, criticised Japan for inviting the head of the Myanmar Embassy in Tokyo. According to Japan Times, Aung Soe Moe said that inviting Myanmar's incumbent ambassador to Japan, Soe Han, would be a de facto recognition of the junta, given the state funeral will be attended by foreign leaders and representatives. “We, Myanmar residents in Japan, have asked the Japanese Foreign Ministry not to invite anyone from the military to Mr Abe’s state funeral, a major international event,” said Aung Soe Moe, to the press in Tokyo. He added, “What generals want is official recognition of their regime by the international community and to make the takeover of government a fait accompli.” Aung Soe Moe went on to cite the example of the UK which did not allow Myanmar’s representatives to attend Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, earlier this month. ALSO READ: IN PICS | Why state funeral of ex-Japan PM Shinzo Abe has resulted in protests He also called for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi to take a firm stance against the junta following the coup. While Japan did not invite coup leader and army chief Min Aung Hlaing it would not make a difference if Prime Minister Kishida’s government allows the junta-appointed ambassador to attend a state-level event, the former diplomat noted. Aung Soe Moe was dismissed after he joined the pro-democracy movement against the country’s military rule and is now reportedly working from Japan to bring democracy back to Myanmar, the local media reported. He said that he and other pro-democracy advocates do not understand why the Japanese government would invite the representative of a violent regime which has quashed dissent and even targeted women and children, for the funeral of a former leader who himself was a victim of violence, reported the Japan Times. ALSO READ | Myanmar: Army helicopters target school, killing 13 people including 7 children “We oppose Japan letting the figure who we do not see as our representative attend Tuesday’s event,” said Aung Soe Moe. He also called for Tokyo to “sever ties with the Myanmar military immediately.” Notably, Japan has condemned the coup in Myanmar, however, this invitation to the junta is “not fair to Myanmar people,” said the former diplomat. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar’s former diplomat urges Japan to debar junta envoy from Abe's funeral

Japan has banned the export of material that may be used for chemical weapons by Russian organizations and science laboratories. Japan's top government spokesperson expressed the country's grave concern regarding Russian threats to use nuclear weapons.

Japan bans export of chemical weapon goods to Russia, expresses concern over nuclear threats

Shinzo Abe's state funeral is set to cost more than Queen Elizabeth II's. Japanese people are divided over the cost, especially as Japan is dealing with rising inflation.

WION Fineprint | Japan divided over the state funeral for former prime minister, Shinzo Abe

Preparations were underway on Monday around the Nippon Budokan arena in central Tokyo for former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's state funeral, in which 6,000 guests and 190 foreign delegations are expected to attend.

Japan prepares for Former PM Shinzo Abe's state funeral

Shinzo Abe's state funeral will be held on Tuesday. Leaders will be flying out from around the world to attend the ceremony to pay their respects to Japan's longest serving prime minister.

Japan: Protests against Abe's state funeral, growing discontent among public

Typhoon Talas made landfall in central Japan, battering it for torrential rain and fierce winds. The catastrophe killed two residents and left about 120,000 households without power.

WION Climate Tracker: Typhoon Talas knocks over 2 electricity towers in Japan

As per officials in Seoul, North Korea has fired ballistic missile and the timings of firing has raised alarms. Japan has also expressed their concern over the launch. The country's coast guards has warned its ships to be vigilant.

Japan expresses concern over launch of ballistic missiles by North Korea

Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled. Meanwhile, Abe’s state funeral costs are now being compared to the funeral services held for the recently departed UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.&nbsp;

While the actual total cost of the Queen's funeral, held earlier this month, has not been disclosed, several sources have cited the Daily Mirror, a British national daily tabloid, who reported the estimated figure of £8 million or 1.3 billion yen. This is in comparison to the cost of the former prime minister’s upcoming state funeral which is to be held next week and is set to cost the Japanese government at least 1.66 billion, said the media reports.&nbsp;

The debate surrounding Abe’s state funeral has been going on for months and has triggered a string of protests and demonstrations in Japan. Meanwhile, people have also highlighted the cost of the Tokyo Olympics which cost the country, $13 billion which was reportedly double the amount they estimated for the event.

Some even questioned the state funeral’s legality saying that since they have been historically reserved for the emperor. Furthermore, the decision to hold Abe’s funeral was made by the cabinet and did not even go through parliamentary approval, indicated media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-what-is-the-controversy-surrounding-the-state-funeral-for-former-pm-shinzo-abe-513837">Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe?</a>&nbsp;

The upcoming funeral has also been dubbed “funeral diplomacy”. The three-day event will see the presence of 700 guests from 217 countries, and leaders including prime ministers of India and Australia, Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese, and US vice president Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Guardian, the Japanese government estimated the cost of the state funeral to be 250 million yen. Meanwhile, the policing of the event would cost approximately 800 million yen, said chief cabinet secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, while hosting the dignitaries of various countries is expected to cost at least 600 million yen. He added the cost may reach up to $1.7 billion yen.&nbsp;

Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister who was assassinated earlier this year in July. Several polls in the country have indicated that over 50% of people are against the state funeral citing different reasons. A survey by the Kyodo news agency said that more than 70% of participants have said that the government is spending too much money on the funeral. Another poll by Mainichi newspaper said that at least 62% of people are opposed to the upcoming state funeral.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/man-sets-himself-on-fire-in-apparent-protest-against-abes-state-funeral-518225">Man sets himself on fire in apparent protest against Abe's state funeral</a>

This comes amid some 12 municipalities in Japan issuing statements calling for the state funeral to be cancelled. Earlier this week, a man set himself ablaze in protest near the incumbent Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s office. While Abe’s death was a shock to most, he is set to become the second PM in the history of Japan to receive a state funeral.&nbsp;

Many have opposed the upcoming funeral predominantly because the country is battling inflation for the time in decades and critics say that the money could be spent elsewhere like helping low-income families through this difficult time, the media reported. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled.

Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral has become a point of contention in the country, as hundreds of people have been protesting for months calling for the event to be cancelled. Meanwhile, Abe’s state funeral costs are now being compared to the funeral services held for the recently departed UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. While the actual total cost of the Queen's funeral, held earlier this month, has not been disclosed, several sources have cited the Daily Mirror, a British national daily tabloid, who reported the estimated figure of £8 million or 1.3 billion yen. This is in comparison to the cost of the former prime minister’s upcoming state funeral which is to be held next week and is set to cost the Japanese government at least 1.66 billion, said the media reports. The debate surrounding Abe’s state funeral has been going on for months and has triggered a string of protests and demonstrations in Japan. Meanwhile, people have also highlighted the cost of the Tokyo Olympics which cost the country, $13 billion which was reportedly double the amount they estimated for the event. Some even questioned the state funeral’s legality saying that since they have been historically reserved for the emperor. Furthermore, the decision to hold Abe’s funeral was made by the cabinet and did not even go through parliamentary approval, indicated media reports. ALSO READ: Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe? The upcoming funeral has also been dubbed “funeral diplomacy”. The three-day event will see the presence of 700 guests from 217 countries, and leaders including prime ministers of India and Australia, Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese, and US vice president Kamala Harris. According to a report by the Guardian, the Japanese government estimated the cost of the state funeral to be 250 million yen. Meanwhile, the policing of the event would cost approximately 800 million yen, said chief cabinet secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, while hosting the dignitaries of various countries is expected to cost at least 600 million yen. He added the cost may reach up to $1.7 billion yen. Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister who was assassinated earlier this year in July. Several polls in the country have indicated that over 50% of people are against the state funeral citing different reasons. A survey by the Kyodo news agency said that more than 70% of participants have said that the government is spending too much money on the funeral. Another poll by Mainichi newspaper said that at least 62% of people are opposed to the upcoming state funeral. ALSO READ: Man sets himself on fire in apparent protest against Abe's state funeral This comes amid some 12 municipalities in Japan issuing statements calling for the state funeral to be cancelled. Earlier this week, a man set himself ablaze in protest near the incumbent Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s office. While Abe’s death was a shock to most, he is set to become the second PM in the history of Japan to receive a state funeral. Many have opposed the upcoming funeral predominantly because the country is battling inflation for the time in decades and critics say that the money could be spent elsewhere like helping low-income families through this difficult time, the media reported.

Japan: Former PM Abe’s funeral to cost more than Queen Elizabeth II’s?

The foreign ministers of India, United States of America, Japan and Australia, met in their very first meeting as Quad partners on Friday. The leaders signed the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief pact during the meeting. This agreement was announced by the Quad leaders in the month of May itself.

Foreign ministers hold meeting at Quad summit, sign disaster relief pact

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

Abe's alleged assassin is believed to have resented the sect over massive donations his mother made to the church, leaving the family bankrupt.

He reportedly targeted Abe believing he was linked to the church, whose followers are sometimes known colloquially as "Moonies".

The group has denied any wrongdoing and disavowed Abe's murder, but church executive Hideyuki Teshigawara said it would now "take into consideration the financial situation of followers and ensure that donations are not excessive".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-issues-latest-iphone-14-update-to-fix-shaking-camera-and-authorisation-problems-518936" hreflang="en">Apple issues latest iPhone 14 update to fix shaking camera and authorisation problems</a>

The church will "respect the independence and free will of followers" on donations, Teshigawara, who heads the group's new reform committee, told reporters.

The group says it took measures to regulate donations in 2009, but will now bolster them.

The announcement comes after a wave of accusations about the church's practices, including from former members who say they were pressured into making enormous donations under the guise of "spiritual sales".

The mother of the man accused of killing Abe donated around 100 million yen (then around $1 million) to the church, according to a relative.

Japan's National Network of Lawyers Against Spiritual Sales says it has filed suits seeking 123.7 billion yen ($850 million) in damages for former followers since 1987.

The church, however, says just four civil lawsuits were filed since 2009 and they have all been settled, for a total of 38 million yen.

Experts say Japan serves as a financial hub for the church, which is known officially as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification and was founded by Sun Myung Moon in Korea in 1954.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-memo-says-pakistan-should-suspend-debt-repayments-following-devastating-floods-reports-518889">UN memo says Pakistan should suspend debt repayments: Reports</a>

Japanese believers are taught that they need to atone for their country's wartime occupation of Korea, in part through hefty donations, according to former members and experts.

Teshigawara said the church would review the use of money raised in Japan for missionary work overseas and would look to use the funds to support domestic efforts instead.

Anyone found violating the church's policies would be "strictly punished", he added.

The reforms are unlikely to dissipate the widening controversy over the church, particularly after the revelation that it had links with around half the ruling party's lawmakers.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has seen his government's approval ratings slip over the issue, has pledged his party will cut ties with the church.

He faces additional controversy over a planned state funeral for Abe on September 27, with polls showing more than half of Japanese people oppose the event.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

The Unification Church in Japan pledged Thursday to prevent followers from making "excessive" donations, after criticism of its practices following the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Abe's alleged assassin is believed to have resented the sect over massive donations his mother made to the church, leaving the family bankrupt. He reportedly targeted Abe believing he was linked to the church, whose followers are sometimes known colloquially as "Moonies". The group has denied any wrongdoing and disavowed Abe's murder, but church executive Hideyuki Teshigawara said it would now "take into consideration the financial situation of followers and ensure that donations are not excessive". Also read | Apple issues latest iPhone 14 update to fix shaking camera and authorisation problems The church will "respect the independence and free will of followers" on donations, Teshigawara, who heads the group's new reform committee, told reporters. The group says it took measures to regulate donations in 2009, but will now bolster them. The announcement comes after a wave of accusations about the church's practices, including from former members who say they were pressured into making enormous donations under the guise of "spiritual sales". The mother of the man accused of killing Abe donated around 100 million yen (then around $1 million) to the church, according to a relative. Japan's National Network of Lawyers Against Spiritual Sales says it has filed suits seeking 123.7 billion yen ($850 million) in damages for former followers since 1987. The church, however, says just four civil lawsuits were filed since 2009 and they have all been settled, for a total of 38 million yen. Experts say Japan serves as a financial hub for the church, which is known officially as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification and was founded by Sun Myung Moon in Korea in 1954. Also read | UN memo says Pakistan should suspend debt repayments: Reports Japanese believers are taught that they need to atone for their country's wartime occupation of Korea, in part through hefty donations, according to former members and experts. Teshigawara said the church would review the use of money raised in Japan for missionary work overseas and would look to use the funds to support domestic efforts instead. Anyone found violating the church's policies would be "strictly punished", he added. The reforms are unlikely to dissipate the widening controversy over the church, particularly after the revelation that it had links with around half the ruling party's lawmakers. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has seen his government's approval ratings slip over the issue, has pledged his party will cut ties with the church. He faces additional controversy over a planned state funeral for Abe on September 27, with polls showing more than half of Japanese people oppose the event.

Unification Church in Japan pledges donation reforms after Shinzo Abe’s assassination

The Unification Church in Japan accepted that it received a huge donation from Shinzo Abe's murder suspect's mother and it would need to seriously consider if that led to the killing of the Japanese leader. Shinzo Abe was shot dead during an outdoor campaign speech, back in July.

Unification Church in Japan accepts it took huge donation from Shinzo Abe shooting suspect's mother

In Japan, the unification church that came into the headlines following the former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's assassination has now acknowledged the fact that it accepted huge donations from the suspect's mother.

Shinzo Abe Probe: Unification church accepts donation claims, suspect's mother donated $700,00

With some ease to the Covid-19 pandemic, Japan is now all set to further relax its border restrictions next month onwards. The country has maintained some of the strictest measures in the world.

Japan: 'Pandemic interrupted the free flow of people & goods'

Japan stated on Thursday that it would relax harsh Covid regulations on foreign visitors, reopening the gates after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus.

Japan will finally reopen the border, tweeted Taro Kono, the minister of information technology.

There is no daily restriction and free individual visits, and the visa waiver is returned.

He did so before Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who is in attendance at the UN General Assembly and is scheduled to speak at the New York Stock Exchange about the lowering of entrance requirements, was scheduled to do so.

Japan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-scrap-covid-quarantine-for-travellers-in-october-518842">China</a> have been the only countries to continue imposing tight restrictions on tourists when the majority of the world has recovered from the pandemic.

Contrarily, Japan didn't implement a rigorous lockdown during the outbreak.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/laughter-face-for-carrots-cry-face-for-kale-babies-in-womb-react-to-what-their-mothers-eat-study-finds-518616">'Laughter-face' for carrots, 'cry-face' for kale: Babies in womb react to what their mothers eat, study finds</a>

Tourists to Japan will benefit from a weak yen, which has fallen so far against the dollar that the finance ministry intervened in the currency market earlier on Thursday for the first time since 1998.

The reinstatement of the visa-waiver programme, which was put on hold in March 2020, will bring back the convenience that allowed a record 31.9 million foreign travellers to enter the nation in 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alphatauri-retains-japanese-driver-yuki-tsunoda-for-next-formula-one-season-518727">Japan</a> has eased its restriction that visitors travel in groups with advisers since June and now accepts self-guided package excursions as well.

According to James Brady, Japan analysis head at the US-based Teneo consultancy, the cautious approach to reopening has been planned.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Japan stated on Thursday that it would relax harsh Covid regulations on foreign visitors, reopening the gates after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus. Japan will finally reopen the border, tweeted Taro Kono, the minister of information technology.

Japan stated on Thursday that it would relax harsh Covid regulations on foreign visitors, reopening the gates after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus. Japan will finally reopen the border, tweeted Taro Kono, the minister of information technology. There is no daily restriction and free individual visits, and the visa waiver is returned. He did so before Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who is in attendance at the UN General Assembly and is scheduled to speak at the New York Stock Exchange about the lowering of entrance requirements, was scheduled to do so. Japan and China have been the only countries to continue imposing tight restrictions on tourists when the majority of the world has recovered from the pandemic. Contrarily, Japan didn't implement a rigorous lockdown during the outbreak. Also read | 'Laughter-face' for carrots, 'cry-face' for kale: Babies in womb react to what their mothers eat, study finds Tourists to Japan will benefit from a weak yen, which has fallen so far against the dollar that the finance ministry intervened in the currency market earlier on Thursday for the first time since 1998. The reinstatement of the visa-waiver programme, which was put on hold in March 2020, will bring back the convenience that allowed a record 31.9 million foreign travellers to enter the nation in 2019. Japan has eased its restriction that visitors travel in groups with advisers since June and now accepts self-guided package excursions as well. According to James Brady, Japan analysis head at the US-based Teneo consultancy, the cautious approach to reopening has been planned. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan to lift Covid restrictions on international visitors

A man set himself on fire near the Japanese prime minister's office in Tokyo to protest against the state funeral of Japan's longest-serving prime minister Shinzo Abe.

Japan: Man attempts self-immolation near PM office over Abe's state funeral

Typhoon Nanmadol continues to wreak havoc in Japan claiming the lives of two people and forcing millions to evacuate. One of the biggest storms to strike Japan in years, it has brought ferocious winds and record rainfall to the west of the country.

WION Climate Tracker | Japan battered by one of the worst typhoons ever

Japan's core consumer inflation quickened to 2.8% in August to hit the fastest annual pace in nearly eight years. This is as price pressure from raw materials and yen weakness broadened.

World Business Watch: Japan's August consumer inflation hits near 8-year high

Typhoon Nanmadol is one of the biggest storms to hit Japan in years - and the 14th typhoon of the season. Japanese PM Fumio Kishida has delayed his visit to the US to assess the damage. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Super Typhoon Nanmadol slams into Japan

Japanese auto major Honda which is facing a tough time in India may discontinue its diesel cars in the country. India will require all cars sold here to adhere to real-time driving emissions from 2023.

WION Dispatch: Honda may discontinue diesel cars in India

Japanese car major, Honda&nbsp;is mulling discontinuing its diesel cars in India, per a report by Times of India. The company is reportedly attempting to focus its attention on clean and sustainable mobility.&nbsp;

Moreover, the&nbsp;decision to pull the plug on diesel cars comes in the backdrop of the Indian government introducing stricter emission norms. As reported by WION, the vehicles sold under Phase 2 of Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms will have to comply with&nbsp;Real Driving Emission (RDE) norms.&nbsp;

“We are now not thinking too much about diesel. It’s very hard to clear RDE with the diesel. Even in Europe, most of the brands could not continue with diesel.”&nbsp;Takuya Tsumura, Honda Cars CEO was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

Lately, Honda has been focussing on adding hybrid cars to its fleet, whilst attempting to chalk out a comprehensive electric vehicle strategy for an emerging country like India.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/lg-and-honda-join-hands-to-develop-ev-batteries-for-the-us-market-511265">&nbsp;LG and Honda join hands to develop EV batteries for the US market</a>

The Indian government has been actively promoting electronic vehicles by providing subsidies to the customers as well as the manufacturers under its myriad Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes. Thus, it is quite reasonable that Honda is attempting a pivot on its old strategy.&nbsp;

However, Honda is not the only company to employ a change in strategy anticipating the new norms. According to multiple reports, the production of Skoda Octavia and Superb luxury sedans will be terminated in India from next year due to the RDE norms.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that due to the deteriorating air quality in India, the government directly went from BS4 norms to BS6, skipping an entire generation of emission norms.

The auto industry has not admired the sudden policy change but the government remains steadfast in its decision.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Japanese car major, Honda is mulling discontinuing its diesel cars in India, per a report by Times of India. The company is reportedly attempting to focus its attention on clean and sustainable mobility.

Japanese car major, Honda is mulling discontinuing its diesel cars in India, per a report by Times of India. The company is reportedly attempting to focus its attention on clean and sustainable mobility. Moreover, the decision to pull the plug on diesel cars comes in the backdrop of the Indian government introducing stricter emission norms. As reported by WION, the vehicles sold under Phase 2 of Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms will have to comply with Real Driving Emission (RDE) norms. “We are now not thinking too much about diesel. It’s very hard to clear RDE with the diesel. Even in Europe, most of the brands could not continue with diesel.” Takuya Tsumura, Honda Cars CEO was quoted as saying by the publication. Lately, Honda has been focussing on adding hybrid cars to its fleet, whilst attempting to chalk out a comprehensive electric vehicle strategy for an emerging country like India. Read more: LG and Honda join hands to develop EV batteries for the US market The Indian government has been actively promoting electronic vehicles by providing subsidies to the customers as well as the manufacturers under its myriad Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes. Thus, it is quite reasonable that Honda is attempting a pivot on its old strategy. However, Honda is not the only company to employ a change in strategy anticipating the new norms. According to multiple reports, the production of Skoda Octavia and Superb luxury sedans will be terminated in India from next year due to the RDE norms. It is pertinent to note that due to the deteriorating air quality in India, the government directly went from BS4 norms to BS6, skipping an entire generation of emission norms. The auto industry has not admired the sudden policy change but the government remains steadfast in its decision. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Honda might discontinue its diesel cars in India as new emission norms come in place

Typhoon Nanmadol has created havoc in the southern island of Kyushu, Japan. Authorities have asked nearly 3 million residents to evacuate. Japan's meteorological industry has issued a special warning that the region is at risk of landslides, torrential rains and following that all the trains, flights and ferry services have also been cancelled.

Japan: Typhoon Nanmadol makes landfall; nearly 3 mn people asked to evacuate

Powerful Typhoon Nanmadol hits southwestern Japan, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. Authorities have urged nearly three million residents to evacuate due to the storm.

Heavy rain and wind as powerful Typhoon Nanmadol hits Japan

Two people have died and almost 90 have been injured as Japan is battered by super typhoon Nanmadol.

The typhoon is being described as one of the worst typhoons ever witnessed in the country. As per BBC, authorities have ordered the evacuation of nine million people as the nation prepares for extensive floods and landslides and transportation and businesses suffer.

On Sunday morning, it made landfall on Kyushu, the southernmost island in Japan, and it is expected to move over Honshu in the coming days.

Watch |&nbsp;Typhoon Nanmadol hits Japan; residents urged to evacuate

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/typhoon-nanmadol-hits-japan-3-mn-residents-urged-to-evacuate-517317/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nearly 350,000 houses are going without electricity, and tens of thousands of people were forced to spend Sunday night in emergency shelters.

Typhoon Nanmadol has produced wind gusts as high as 234 km/h (145 mph), and 500 mm (around 20 inches) of rain was projected to fall in some locations in a single day.

NHK, the government-run television station, reported that two men died, one when a landslide buried him and the other after his automobile was swept away in floodwaters. 87 people have suffered injuries, and one more person is still missing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-most-destructive-tropical-super-typhoon-in-decades-to-strike-southern-japan-517104">Watch: Most destructive tropical 'super typhoon' in decades to strike southern Japan</a>

The national broadcaster also said that millions had been told to move to shelters or take refuge in sturdy buildings to ride out the storm.

As per AFP, evacuation advisories are not mandatory. Authorities made an effort to emphasise how concerned they were about the weather throughout the weekend since in the past they have had trouble persuading people to seek shelter ahead of big storms.

"Please stay away from dangerous places, and please evacuate if you feel even the slightest hint of danger," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tweeted after convening a government meeting on the storm.

"It will be dangerous to evacuate at night. Please move to safety while it's still light outside."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Two people have died and almost 90 have been injured as Japan is battered by super typhoon Nanmadol. The typhoon is being described as one of the worst typhoons ever witnessed in the country.

Two people have died and almost 90 have been injured as Japan is battered by super typhoon Nanmadol. The typhoon is being described as one of the worst typhoons ever witnessed in the country. As per BBC, authorities have ordered the evacuation of nine million people as the nation prepares for extensive floods and landslides and transportation and businesses suffer. On Sunday morning, it made landfall on Kyushu, the southernmost island in Japan, and it is expected to move over Honshu in the coming days. Watch | Typhoon Nanmadol hits Japan; residents urged to evacuate Nearly 350,000 houses are going without electricity, and tens of thousands of people were forced to spend Sunday night in emergency shelters. Typhoon Nanmadol has produced wind gusts as high as 234 km/h (145 mph), and 500 mm (around 20 inches) of rain was projected to fall in some locations in a single day. NHK, the government-run television station, reported that two men died, one when a landslide buried him and the other after his automobile was swept away in floodwaters. 87 people have suffered injuries, and one more person is still missing. Also read | Watch: Most destructive tropical 'super typhoon' in decades to strike southern Japan The national broadcaster also said that millions had been told to move to shelters or take refuge in sturdy buildings to ride out the storm. As per AFP, evacuation advisories are not mandatory. Authorities made an effort to emphasise how concerned they were about the weather throughout the weekend since in the past they have had trouble persuading people to seek shelter ahead of big storms. "Please stay away from dangerous places, and please evacuate if you feel even the slightest hint of danger," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tweeted after convening a government meeting on the storm. "It will be dangerous to evacuate at night. Please move to safety while it's still light outside." (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.

Millions asked to evacuate as typhoon Nanmadol batters Japan

While the world is struggling with an energy crisis, Chikako Fujii hasn't paid any electricity bill in the last 10 years. She has installed 4 solar panels in her apartment's balcony to generate her own electricity.

Japanese woman lives off the power grid while world battles soaring power costs

On Sunday (September 18), thousands of people were in shelters as the strong typhoon Nanmadol moved towards the area, prompting authorities to urge nearly three million people to evacuate.

No reports of damage or injuries have been reported so far in the region, an official in conversation with AFP said. He further stated that the rain and winds are getting stronger and the typhoon is expected to land in Kyushu by Sunday evening.&nbsp;

According to local authorities and transport utilities services, 25,680 homes in Kagoshima and neighbouring cities were already without electricity as of Sunday morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-most-destructive-tropical-super-typhoon-in-decades-to-strike-southern-japan-517104">Also read |&nbsp;Watch: Most destructive tropical 'super typhoon' in decades to strike southern Japan</a>

The southern Kyushu town of Kagoshima has received a special warning from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), a situation sent once every few years. The weather agency stated high winds, storm surges, and torrential rain might pose a great danger to the area. It further warned locals to take maximum care.

Kagoshima officials reported that over 8,500 people are already housed in regional shelters.

Bullet train operations and flights have been halted in the region, along with regional railway lines.

According to the government's Fire and Disaster Management Agency, 2.9 million homes in Kyushu have received evacuation aid thus far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/typhoon-muifa-makes-second-landfall-on-chinas-east-coast-516323#typhoon-muifa-makes-second-landfall-516314">Also read |&nbsp;Typhoon Muifa makes second landfall on China's east coast</a>

A similar typhoon incident happened in 2019 and in 2018. Typhoon Hagibis 2019 smashed into the South Asian country, claimed&nbsp;lives of nearly 100 people, and injured several others, along with some infrastructural damage.

Typhoon Jebi caused Kansai airport in Osaka to close in 2018, killing 14 people. Floods and landslides during this year claimed the lives of over 200 people in the west region of the country during the country's rainy season.

Around 20 typhoons hit Japan annually, and the country is perpetually in typhoon season.

Scientists predict that climate change will become more intense and frequent with the increasing severity of storms, heat waves, and flash floods.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

On Sunday (September 18), thousands of people were in shelters as the strong typhoon Nanmadol moved towards the area, prompting authorities to urge nearly three million people to evacuate.

On Sunday (September 18), thousands of people were in shelters as the strong typhoon Nanmadol moved towards the area, prompting authorities to urge nearly three million people to evacuate. No reports of damage or injuries have been reported so far in the region, an official in conversation with AFP said. He further stated that the rain and winds are getting stronger and the typhoon is expected to land in Kyushu by Sunday evening. According to local authorities and transport utilities services, 25,680 homes in Kagoshima and neighbouring cities were already without electricity as of Sunday morning. Also read | Watch: Most destructive tropical 'super typhoon' in decades to strike southern Japan The southern Kyushu town of Kagoshima has received a special warning from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), a situation sent once every few years. The weather agency stated high winds, storm surges, and torrential rain might pose a great danger to the area. It further warned locals to take maximum care. Kagoshima officials reported that over 8,500 people are already housed in regional shelters. Bullet train operations and flights have been halted in the region, along with regional railway lines. According to the government's Fire and Disaster Management Agency, 2.9 million homes in Kyushu have received evacuation aid thus far. Also read | Typhoon Muifa makes second landfall on China's east coast A similar typhoon incident happened in 2019 and in 2018. Typhoon Hagibis 2019 smashed into the South Asian country, claimed lives of nearly 100 people, and injured several others, along with some infrastructural damage. Typhoon Jebi caused Kansai airport in Osaka to close in 2018, killing 14 people. Floods and landslides during this year claimed the lives of over 200 people in the west region of the country during the country's rainy season. Around 20 typhoons hit Japan annually, and the country is perpetually in typhoon season. Scientists predict that climate change will become more intense and frequent with the increasing severity of storms, heat waves, and flash floods. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Trains and flights halted as Japan prepares for typhoon Nanmadol, thousands in shelter  

Typhoon Nanmadol hits Japan; 3 mn residents urged to evacuate

Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners.

The fuel was due to leave the northern French port city of Cherbourg earlier this month but was delayed by the breakdown of loading equipment.

Environmental activists have denounced the practice of transporting such highly radioactive materials, calling it irresponsible.

The previous transport of MOX fuel to Japan in September 2021 drew protests from the environmental group Greenpeace.&nbsp;

MOX fuel is a mixture of reprocessed plutonium and uranium.

"The Pacific Heron and Pacific Egret, the specialised ships belonging to British company PNTL, left Cherbourg harbour on September 17. They will ensure the shipment of MOX nuclear fuel to Japan," French nuclear technology group Orano said in a statement Saturday.

They are bound for Japan for use in a power plant and Orano said it expected the shipment to arrive in November.

Japan lacks facilities to process waste from its own nuclear reactors and sends most of it overseas, particularly to France.

The operation was carried out "successfully", Orano said, and it is the second shipment that arrived in Cherbourg from a plant in La Hague, located 20 kilometres (12 miles) away, after the first came on September 7.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-anti-monarchy-protests-in-britain-citizens-say-not-my-king-ask-who-elected-him-517125">&nbsp;IN PICS| Anti-monarchy protests in Britain: Citizens say 'Not my King', ask 'who elected him?'</a>

Yannick Rousselet of Greenpeace France previously denounced the shipment.

"Transporting such dangerous materials from a nuclear proliferation point of view is completely irresponsible," he said last month.

MOX is composed of 92 per cent uranium oxide and eight per cent plutonium oxide, according to Orano.&nbsp;

The plutonium "is not the same as that used by the military," it said.

 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners.

Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners. The fuel was due to leave the northern French port city of Cherbourg earlier this month but was delayed by the breakdown of loading equipment. Environmental activists have denounced the practice of transporting such highly radioactive materials, calling it irresponsible. The previous transport of MOX fuel to Japan in September 2021 drew protests from the environmental group Greenpeace. MOX fuel is a mixture of reprocessed plutonium and uranium. "The Pacific Heron and Pacific Egret, the specialised ships belonging to British company PNTL, left Cherbourg harbour on September 17. They will ensure the shipment of MOX nuclear fuel to Japan," French nuclear technology group Orano said in a statement Saturday. They are bound for Japan for use in a power plant and Orano said it expected the shipment to arrive in November. Japan lacks facilities to process waste from its own nuclear reactors and sends most of it overseas, particularly to France. The operation was carried out "successfully", Orano said, and it is the second shipment that arrived in Cherbourg from a plant in La Hague, located 20 kilometres (12 miles) away, after the first came on September 7. Also Read: IN PICS| Anti-monarchy protests in Britain: Citizens say 'Not my King', ask 'who elected him?' Yannick Rousselet of Greenpeace France previously denounced the shipment. "Transporting such dangerous materials from a nuclear proliferation point of view is completely irresponsible," he said last month. MOX is composed of 92 per cent uranium oxide and eight per cent plutonium oxide, according to Orano. The plutonium "is not the same as that used by the military," it said.

France sends latest nuclear shipment to Japan despite criticism from environmental campaigners

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda.

Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added.

Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother.

Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it.

Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral.

Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said.

"Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito.

"With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed.

Support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tumbled to its lowest level since he took office, hit by growing anger over a state funeral for slain former leader Shinzo Abe and his ruling party's ties to a controversial church, an opinion poll showed. Kishida's support fell to 32.3% from 44.3% a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend - approaching what is widely seen as a "danger level" of 30% that signifies a government may run into trouble carrying out its political agenda. Those who did not support his government climbed to 40%, a rise of 11.5 points, Jiji added. Links to the Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s, have become a growing headache for Kishida since July 8, when Abe was killed by a suspect who blamed him for supporting the church, which he said had bankrupted his mother. Revelations following Abe's assassination of ties between the ruling party and the church, which has faced criticism over the years, have fed into anger about the cost of the Sept. 27 funeral, paid for solely by state funds, and how Kishida decided to hold it. Kishida defended his decision in parliament last week, the same day his ruling party announced the results of its investigation into party ties to the church, but the poll found that 62.7% of respondents did not approve of his handling of the church matter, while 51.9% were against the state funeral. Recovery from such steep falls in support may be difficult, analysts said. "Even once the funeral's past, the problem with the Unification Church will continue. He'll probably face harsh questioning in parliament once it opens in October," said commentator Atsuo Ito. "With the economy under stress as well, I'm not sure what will help him regain support." 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.

Support for Japan's PM Fumio Kishida tumbles as anger over Shinzo Abe's state funeral grows

japan

Japan, News on Japan, stories on Japan, articles on Japan, Japan stories at Wion, Japan news, Japan latest news