Chip shortage is a big global concern nowadays and Japan and US are now expected to agree on joint research for next gen semiconductors.

US, Japan joint research for semiconductors

Japanese lawmakers met with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to discuss Regional security. The Japanese delegation led by Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba said it wanted to reach an agreement on defense issues and prepare for any potential conflict in the region.

Japan and Taiwan talk over regional security

Local authorities hunting for a gang of monkeys who attacked and wounded nearly 50 people in western&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;have caught and killed one of the marauding primates, an official said Wednesday.

The male simian was seized while roaming the grounds of a high school in Yamaguchi city — but it may not be the end of the furry, twisting tale, with other monkeys feared to be at large.

City officials have been trying for weeks to track down the vicious gang that made national headlines by assaulting residents with mostly mild scratches and bites.

On Tuesday evening, specially commissioned hunters shot the monkey with a tranquiliser gun and eventually caught it near a lake on the school premises, an official at the local agricultural department told AFP.

After identifying it as the same animal responsible for one of the attacks, the monkey was put down, he said. It had an estimated age of four and was around half-a-metre tall.

Patrols have been underway in Yamaguchi since the attacks on adults and children began around three weeks ago.

But with 49 people injured as of Tuesday midday, and fresh attack reports coming in, the search for more is still on.

“Eyewitnesses describe monkeys of different sizes, and even after the capture, we’ve been getting reports of new attacks,” said the city official, who declined to be named.

Japanese macaques are seen commonly across large parts of the country, and are a pest in some areas, eating crops and even entering homes.

But the spate of attacks in Yamaguchi is unusual, with some residents telling local media that they are now carrying umbrellas and tree-cutting scissors to defend themselves.

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>.

Local authorities hunting for a gang of monkeys who attacked and wounded nearly 50 people in western Japan have caught and killed one of the marauding primates, an official said Wednesday.

Local authorities hunting for a gang of monkeys who attacked and wounded nearly 50 people in western Japan have caught and killed one of the marauding primates, an official said Wednesday. The male simian was seized while roaming the grounds of a high school in Yamaguchi city — but it may not be the end of the furry, twisting tale, with other monkeys feared to be at large. City officials have been trying for weeks to track down the vicious gang that made national headlines by assaulting residents with mostly mild scratches and bites. On Tuesday evening, specially commissioned hunters shot the monkey with a tranquiliser gun and eventually caught it near a lake on the school premises, an official at the local agricultural department told AFP. After identifying it as the same animal responsible for one of the attacks, the monkey was put down, he said. It had an estimated age of four and was around half-a-metre tall. Patrols have been underway in Yamaguchi since the attacks on adults and children began around three weeks ago. But with 49 people injured as of Tuesday midday, and fresh attack reports coming in, the search for more is still on. “Eyewitnesses describe monkeys of different sizes, and even after the capture, we’ve been getting reports of new attacks,” said the city official, who declined to be named. Japanese macaques are seen commonly across large parts of the country, and are a pest in some areas, eating crops and even entering homes. But the spate of attacks in Yamaguchi is unusual, with some residents telling local media that they are now carrying umbrellas and tree-cutting scissors to defend themselves. 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.

Marauding monkey caught, killed after dozens injured in Japan

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has made a fiery speech as he claimed that North Korea's nuclear deterrence is ready. He added that the South Korean President is pushing the situation to the brink of war.

Kim Jong Un visits war cemetery, says ready to mobilize nuclear war deterrent

'North Korea's nuclear deterrence ready,' Kim Jong Un makes a fiery speech

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning.

Japan: Man executed for killing 7 in truck ramming rampage in 2008

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning.

Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre.

"The case has been fully tried in the courts and the courts' final conclusion was the death sentence... I have taken the greatest care possible in considering this case," BBC quoted Furukawa as saying.

Kato was 25 at the time when he drove a truck into pedestrians in the Akihabara shopping district on June 8 and then went into a stabbing spree, killing seven people and injuring 10.

He was later caught by the police on the spot and during his trial, he admitted to his crimes saying that he had been enraged by online bullying.

"I came to Akihabara to kill people. It didn't matter who I'd kill,” Kato told police at the time of his arrest.

In 2011, Kato was sentenced to death, and it was later upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015, who had cancelled his plea to commute the sentence.

The crime had triggered a massive debate in Japan at that time as concerns were raised over online influence on random killings and the failure to put up effective mental health support for the youth. The officials had also tightened laws on knife ownership in response.

According to reports, Kato comes from a wealthy family and used to be a top student in high school. However, he failed his university entrance exams and struggled to maintain steady employment afterwards.

During his trial, the prosecutors dubbed Kato as a troubled young man, who had posted several times in online forums about his anger and alienation from society.

Local reports said that Kato was particularly demoralised after a woman he was chatting with online stopped emailing him.

Jilted over the rejection, he had declared his intention to carry out mass murder.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning. Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre.

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning. Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre. "The case has been fully tried in the courts and the courts' final conclusion was the death sentence... I have taken the greatest care possible in considering this case," BBC quoted Furukawa as saying. Kato was 25 at the time when he drove a truck into pedestrians in the Akihabara shopping district on June 8 and then went into a stabbing spree, killing seven people and injuring 10. He was later caught by the police on the spot and during his trial, he admitted to his crimes saying that he had been enraged by online bullying. "I came to Akihabara to kill people. It didn't matter who I'd kill,” Kato told police at the time of his arrest. In 2011, Kato was sentenced to death, and it was later upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015, who had cancelled his plea to commute the sentence. The crime had triggered a massive debate in Japan at that time as concerns were raised over online influence on random killings and the failure to put up effective mental health support for the youth. The officials had also tightened laws on knife ownership in response. According to reports, Kato comes from a wealthy family and used to be a top student in high school. However, he failed his university entrance exams and struggled to maintain steady employment afterwards. During his trial, the prosecutors dubbed Kato as a troubled young man, who had posted several times in online forums about his anger and alienation from society. Local reports said that Kato was particularly demoralised after a woman he was chatting with online stopped emailing him. Jilted over the rejection, he had declared his intention to carry out mass murder. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan hangs man who went on stabbing spree at Tokyo shopping mall in 2008

There has been a steady rise in temperature across Asia in the past few weeks and Japan was no exception. According to the national Meteorological Agency, Japan experienced temperatures above 35 Degree Celsius for six days in a row during June – a phenomenon happening for the first time in the country’s history.

The month of June generally brings rain in Japan but this year, the heatwave has changed everything, and official data stated that in the first week of July, almost 14,000 people had to be hospitalised. As the situation continues to get worse, two Japanese insurance companies have decided to cover the medical expenses for people suffering from the heatwave in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-urges-minorities-to-return-claims-security-situation-in-afghanistan-has-been-addressed-500734" hreflang="en">Taliban urge minorities to return, claim&nbsp;security situation in Afghanistan has been addressed</a>

&nbsp;Sompo Holdings and Sumitomo Life Insurance have officially decided to include heatwave cover in their insurances, and it will be covering both hospitalisation and other costs incurred.

"These policies are not meant to be profitable, but they could be good ‘door openers’ to tap into clients that don’t have much insurance or are curious about it,” Intelligence analyst Steven Lam told Bloomberg. "If the whole claims experience is good, that might lead into other sales opportunities.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/35-per-cent-reduction-in-employees-quitting-offices-due-to-hybrid-work-model-stanford-study-shows-500731" hreflang="en">35 per cent reduction in employees quitting offices due to hybrid work model, Stanford study shows</a>

The policies have become quite popular among the Japanese consumers as the Sumitomo Life package found 6900 buyers on June 29, according to Bloomberg. On the other hand, Yomiuri Shimbun has reported selling the insurance cover to around 400 people every day in July.

The other feature of the insurance policies that made it popular among the people was the lack of an age cap. While the initial plan was to include just senior citizens in the coverage, the companies decided to not include any age restrictions.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

There has been a steady rise in temperature across Asia in the past few weeks and Japan was no exception. According to the national Meteorological Agency, Japan experienced temperatures above 35 Degree Celsius for six days in a row during June – a phenomenon happening for the first time in the country’s history.

There has been a steady rise in temperature across Asia in the past few weeks and Japan was no exception. According to the national Meteorological Agency, Japan experienced temperatures above 35 Degree Celsius for six days in a row during June – a phenomenon happening for the first time in the country’s history. The month of June generally brings rain in Japan but this year, the heatwave has changed everything, and official data stated that in the first week of July, almost 14,000 people had to be hospitalised. As the situation continues to get worse, two Japanese insurance companies have decided to cover the medical expenses for people suffering from the heatwave in the country. Also read | Taliban urge minorities to return, claim security situation in Afghanistan has been addressed Sompo Holdings and Sumitomo Life Insurance have officially decided to include heatwave cover in their insurances, and it will be covering both hospitalisation and other costs incurred. "These policies are not meant to be profitable, but they could be good ‘door openers’ to tap into clients that don’t have much insurance or are curious about it,” Intelligence analyst Steven Lam told Bloomberg. "If the whole claims experience is good, that might lead into other sales opportunities.” Also read | 35 per cent reduction in employees quitting offices due to hybrid work model, Stanford study shows The policies have become quite popular among the Japanese consumers as the Sumitomo Life package found 6900 buyers on June 29, according to Bloomberg. On the other hand, Yomiuri Shimbun has reported selling the insurance cover to around 400 people every day in July. The other feature of the insurance policies that made it popular among the people was the lack of an age cap. While the initial plan was to include just senior citizens in the coverage, the companies decided to not include any age restrictions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Insurance companies provide heatwave coverage amid rising temperatures in Japan

As marriage and dating decline in Japan and other countries, including the U.S., the dating landscape leaves a large number of men outside the loop of marriages who would like to stick to traditional relationships. Most people in the modern world are opting out of marriage and taking other paths in life, being more career-driven and focusing on themselves. So where does a man go to fill the void of companionship?&nbsp;

Paying for Cuddles:

Japan’s 'Cuddle Cafe', called Soineya, is a place where guys can pay money to cuddle with women. Sounds weird? Well, for the remnant of those who feel the pain of loneliness, this may be the place to experience a moment of comfort and affection. The world of those who live in isolation and loneliness is diametrically opposed to that of those who have a spouse and children. A silent home and no one to talk to can cause a void of deep emptiness in a person's life, and sometimes comfort from another person can help with feeling empty. Medical research states that cuddling actually has great healthy benefits, such as easing stress, relieving pain, and lowering blood pressure.

A force of nature:

The cuddle cafe points to a deeper issue concerning loneliness. It shows that it is in our nature to give and receive affection from one person to another. Humans are affectionate and sexual beings by nature, and with the decline of sex and marriage, it's only natural to find a "landing ground" to fill the void of loneliness. There's no substitute for human nature when it comes to companionship and affection. Typically, the only thing that will suffice is human connection.

Loneliness isn't just an issue in Japan; many other countries are starting to feel the impact of the decline in intimacy, sex, and marriage. Marriage is now being viewed as a burden or nuisance for many, and those who are trying to hold on to traditional strategies of dating and courtship are being hit with the hard reality that dating and marriage are dying out.&nbsp;

Are we suppressing human nature with the absence of affection? If so, will it cause mental health concerns in the long run?

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" 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>.

As marriage and dating decline in Japan and other countries, including the U.S., the dating landscape leaves a large number of men outside the loop of marriages who would like to stick to traditional relationships.

As marriage and dating decline in Japan and other countries, including the U.S., the dating landscape leaves a large number of men outside the loop of marriages who would like to stick to traditional relationships. Most people in the modern world are opting out of marriage and taking other paths in life, being more career-driven and focusing on themselves. So where does a man go to fill the void of companionship? Paying for Cuddles: Japan’s 'Cuddle Cafe', called Soineya, is a place where guys can pay money to cuddle with women. Sounds weird? Well, for the remnant of those who feel the pain of loneliness, this may be the place to experience a moment of comfort and affection. The world of those who live in isolation and loneliness is diametrically opposed to that of those who have a spouse and children. A silent home and no one to talk to can cause a void of deep emptiness in a person's life, and sometimes comfort from another person can help with feeling empty. Medical research states that cuddling actually has great healthy benefits, such as easing stress, relieving pain, and lowering blood pressure. A force of nature: The cuddle cafe points to a deeper issue concerning loneliness. It shows that it is in our nature to give and receive affection from one person to another. Humans are affectionate and sexual beings by nature, and with the decline of sex and marriage, it's only natural to find a "landing ground" to fill the void of loneliness. There's no substitute for human nature when it comes to companionship and affection. Typically, the only thing that will suffice is human connection. Loneliness isn't just an issue in Japan; many other countries are starting to feel the impact of the decline in intimacy, sex, and marriage. Marriage is now being viewed as a burden or nuisance for many, and those who are trying to hold on to traditional strategies of dating and courtship are being hit with the hard reality that dating and marriage are dying out. Are we suppressing human nature with the absence of affection? If so, will it cause mental health concerns in the long run? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

Cuddle cafe: Pay for cuddles in Japan!

Japan's Sakurajima volcano, located on the island of Kyushu, erupted on Sunday, prompting evacuations in the region.

Sakurajima volcano erupts in Japan, dozens ordered to evacuate after eruption | WION Climate Tracker

A family home set up in London's Tate modern museum will soon be covered in colored dots. Artist Kusama's interactive work at the museum invites visitors to place stickers on any surface that they like within the installation.

Interactive work by Japanese artist Kusama: The obliteration room returns to Tate modern

Global inflation appears to be slowly having an impact on Japan, a country that is considered as one of the strongest economies in the world. Weak Yen and volatile oil prices continue to make situation shaky.

Inflation shows early signs of hitting a peak; overall prices in Japan rose 2.4% in June

Fukushima's nuclear water release plan has finally been approved. Now, the release plan needs approval from locals as it can threaten the Marine environment.

Fukushima nuclear water release plan approved: Release needs approval from locals

If reports coming from Japanese media are to be believed, the Fumio Kishida government may not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

If reports coming from Japanese media are to be believed, the Fumio Kishida government may not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Asian country has banned Putin from entering the country. Thus, if the Russian leader decides to participate in the funeral, he will be turned back. After a family funeral was held for Abe in the aftermath of the assassination, the government decided to host a formal state funeral on September 27 for the public and other dignitaries. The programme is expected to be held at Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo. Moreover, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to extend the invitation to all big political leaders, across the globe. Read More: Shinzo Abe: A timeline of the career of the assassinated former Japanese PM Ever since the war broke out between Russia and Ukraine, Japan has picked the latter's side. Up until now, Tokyo has imposed several sanctions on Moscow while providing non-lethal military equipment to Zelensky's troops. While Japan plans to close its gates for Putin, the citizens are not impressed with the government for spending taxpayer money on the funeral, when the family has already performed one. Read More: Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests As reported by WION, 50 people filed an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event. In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral. Shinzo Abe was the longest-serving PM of Japan. He had stepped down from his position after developing some health complications. He was assassinated earlier this month while giving a speech in western Japan’s Nara prefecture. Tetsuya Yamagami, the assassinator, was captured on the spot and is currently enduring an investigation, with Japanese authorities expected to conduct a mental health evaluation. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Japan may not allow Vladimir Putin to attend Shinzo Abe's funeral

Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus. On Thursday (July 21), more than 186,000 cases were recorded in the country. In capital Tokyo, the daily tally surpassed 30,000 cases for the first time. Thirty of country's 47 prefectures have recorded record highs.

According to public broadcaster NHK, people in Okinaka prefecture in southern Japan have been asked to avoid non-essential outings. In hotels, groups of maximum of four people will be allowed for maximum period of two hours.

In Japan, the number of serious cases and deaths is still low but officials have said that the number is increasing.

Residents in Tokyo have expressed concern.

"I think it’s a shocking state of affairs that it’s over 30,000 people. Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious," said 30-year-old office worker Ai Okamura.

Ai was quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno on Thursday warned that new infections had reached highest level ever and hospital occupancy rate is becoming higher.

Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them.

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus.

Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus. On Thursday (July 21), more than 186,000 cases were recorded in the country. In capital Tokyo, the daily tally surpassed 30,000 cases for the first time. Thirty of country's 47 prefectures have recorded record highs. According to public broadcaster NHK, people in Okinaka prefecture in southern Japan have been asked to avoid non-essential outings. In hotels, groups of maximum of four people will be allowed for maximum period of two hours. In Japan, the number of serious cases and deaths is still low but officials have said that the number is increasing. Residents in Tokyo have expressed concern. "I think it’s a shocking state of affairs that it’s over 30,000 people. Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious," said 30-year-old office worker Ai Okamura. Ai was quoted by Reuters. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno on Thursday warned that new infections had reached highest level ever and hospital occupancy rate is becoming higher. Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them. (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: Government calls for 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases rise

Under the decommissioning plan, the treated radioactive water stored in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that got wrecked in the 2011 earthquake will now be released into the sea, come spring next year. The Japanese regulators on Friday approved the plan after receiving a thumbs up from a preliminary as well as a public review process.

The water stored in big tanks at the facility was used to cool the core of the three reactors when the nuclear facility went bust. The water had leaked into the basement of the reactor building but was collected and stored in one place. It is reported that more than 1.3 million tonnes of water is being stored in at least 1000 tanks as of July.

Tokyo Power Electric Company (TEPCO), the company responsible for carrying out the decommissioning of the nuclear plant, needs to get rid of the water to move forward in its plan. However, the water, if released without treatment can cause serious radioactive issues.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-court-orders-former-executives-of-fukushima-operator-to-pay-97-billion-in-damages-497114">Japanese court orders former executives of Fukushima operator to pay $97 billion in damages</a>

More than 60 harmful isotopes to be filtered

Thus, TEPCO is planning to filter the water of more than 60 harmful isotopes, barring tritium, which is hard to treat. The water will meet all the safety standards and then only be released into the sea. Scientists are still unclear regarding the long-term effects of tritium.&nbsp;

TEPCO is expected to release the treated water through a pipe to a coastal facility. There, the treated water will be diluted with seawater, only to be sent to an undersea tunnel that will release the water, approximately one kilometre from the site.&nbsp;

To ensure that all stakeholders, as well as neighbouring countries, are on board with the plan, Japan had invited officials from International Atomic Energy Agency to assess the plan. It was only after their approval was received that the plan moved forward.&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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Under the decommissioning plan, the treated radioactive water stored in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that got wrecked in the 2011 earthquake will now be released into the sea, come spring next year.

Under the decommissioning plan, the treated radioactive water stored in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that got wrecked in the 2011 earthquake will now be released into the sea, come spring next year. The Japanese regulators on Friday approved the plan after receiving a thumbs up from a preliminary as well as a public review process. The water stored in big tanks at the facility was used to cool the core of the three reactors when the nuclear facility went bust. The water had leaked into the basement of the reactor building but was collected and stored in one place. It is reported that more than 1.3 million tonnes of water is being stored in at least 1000 tanks as of July. Tokyo Power Electric Company (TEPCO), the company responsible for carrying out the decommissioning of the nuclear plant, needs to get rid of the water to move forward in its plan. However, the water, if released without treatment can cause serious radioactive issues. Read More: Japanese court orders former executives of Fukushima operator to pay $97 billion in damages More than 60 harmful isotopes to be filtered Thus, TEPCO is planning to filter the water of more than 60 harmful isotopes, barring tritium, which is hard to treat. The water will meet all the safety standards and then only be released into the sea. Scientists are still unclear regarding the long-term effects of tritium. TEPCO is expected to release the treated water through a pipe to a coastal facility. There, the treated water will be diluted with seawater, only to be sent to an undersea tunnel that will release the water, approximately one kilometre from the site. To ensure that all stakeholders, as well as neighbouring countries, are on board with the plan, Japan had invited officials from International Atomic Energy Agency to assess the plan. It was only after their approval was received that the plan moved forward. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan to release treated radioactive water from Fukushima plant into the sea

Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27.

In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) announced that a state funeral will be held for Abe at the Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo even though his funeral was held after his death.

Kyodo News agency quoted chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno as saying, "We made this decision, as has been said before, due to Abe's record as the longest-serving prime minister, during which he exerted leadership skills distinctive from others and bore heavy responsibility for dealing with a number of serious domestic and international issues."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-mourners-throng-shinzo-abes-wake-as-his-party-secures-election-win-496707/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The news agency reported approximately 200 people gathered near the PM's office in Tokyo to protest the decision.

From the use of taxpayer funds to complaints the government may seek to make political capital of Abe's death, the Japanese people raised several objections.

With successive funerals paid for partly by the state and partly by the LDP, the last state funeral for an ex-prime minister paid for fully by state funds was in 1967.

Saying there should have been more discussion before making a decision, 50 people filed for an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event.

In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27.

Amid street and social media protests that the state should not fund ceremonies for Japan's longest-serving leader, the Japanese government said on Friday it would hold a state funeral for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on September 27. In an incident that deeply shocked Japan, the country's longest-serving leader was gunned down two weeks ago at a campaign rally. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) announced that a state funeral will be held for Abe at the Nippon Budokan in central Tokyo even though his funeral was held after his death. Kyodo News agency quoted chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno as saying, "We made this decision, as has been said before, due to Abe's record as the longest-serving prime minister, during which he exerted leadership skills distinctive from others and bore heavy responsibility for dealing with a number of serious domestic and international issues." × The news agency reported approximately 200 people gathered near the PM's office in Tokyo to protest the decision. From the use of taxpayer funds to complaints the government may seek to make political capital of Abe's death, the Japanese people raised several objections. With successive funerals paid for partly by the state and partly by the LDP, the last state funeral for an ex-prime minister paid for fully by state funds was in 1967. Saying there should have been more discussion before making a decision, 50 people filed for an injunction in a Tokyo court seeking a halt to the use of public funds for the event. In a recent public opinion poll by public broadcaster NHK, only 49 per cent supported the idea of a state funeral. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Japanese government's decision to fund Shinzo Abe's funeral sparks protests

The Bank of Japan projected inflation would exceed its target this year in fresh forecasts issued on Thursday, but maintained ultra-low interest rates and signalled its resolve to remain an outlier in a wave of global central banks' policy tightening.

Japan's inflation stays above Bank Of Japan's target

Former world number one Naomi Osaka and her coach Wim Fissette ended their working relationship, the latter announced on Wednesday. "It has been a privilege to coach Naomi since 2019 and see her grow into the champion she has become.

She has inspired a whole new generation to fall in love with the game &amp; to speak up for what they believe in," announcing the split from Osaka, Fissette wrote on Instagram. "It`s been incredible to play a part in that journey. Thank you ... I wish you all the best and looking forward to my next chapter."Osaka was Fissette`s latest high-profile charge on the WTA Tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-to-be-ruled-out-of-us-open-as-organisers-to-follow-govts-guidelines-on-covid-19-vaccine-499376">Novak Djokovic to be ruled out of US Open as organisers to follow govt's guidelines on COVID-19 vaccine</a>

Prior to Osaka, the Belgian worked with compatriot Kim Clijsters, as well as other former World No. 1s Victoria Azarenka, Simon Halep and Angelique Kerber, among others. Their working relationship began at the start of the 2020 season, and together, Fisette helped guide Osaka to two of her four Grand Slam titles. She won the 2020 US Open and 2021 Australian Open under Fissette`s tutelage. Osaka missed recent Wimbledon due to an Achilles injury after her first-round defeat at the 2022 French Open.

However, she`s expected to make her return in two weeks at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic in San Jose. The former World No. 1 has accepted a wild card for the WTA 500 event, which begins Aug 1.&nbsp;

Former world number one Naomi Osaka and her coach Wim Fissette ended their working relationship, the latter announced on Wednesday. "It has been a privilege to coach Naomi since 2019 and see her grow into the champion she has become.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka and her coach Wim Fissette ended their working relationship, the latter announced on Wednesday. "It has been a privilege to coach Naomi since 2019 and see her grow into the champion she has become. She has inspired a whole new generation to fall in love with the game & to speak up for what they believe in," announcing the split from Osaka, Fissette wrote on Instagram. "It`s been incredible to play a part in that journey. Thank you ... I wish you all the best and looking forward to my next chapter."Osaka was Fissette`s latest high-profile charge on the WTA Tour. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic to be ruled out of US Open as organisers to follow govt's guidelines on COVID-19 vaccine Prior to Osaka, the Belgian worked with compatriot Kim Clijsters, as well as other former World No. 1s Victoria Azarenka, Simon Halep and Angelique Kerber, among others. Their working relationship began at the start of the 2020 season, and together, Fisette helped guide Osaka to two of her four Grand Slam titles. She won the 2020 US Open and 2021 Australian Open under Fissette`s tutelage. Osaka missed recent Wimbledon due to an Achilles injury after her first-round defeat at the 2022 French Open. However, she`s expected to make her return in two weeks at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic in San Jose. The former World No. 1 has accepted a wild card for the WTA 500 event, which begins Aug 1.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka parts ways with longtime Belgian coach Wim Fissette

Did you know? Japan has a history of rigid & often toxic work culture. Two Japanese firms collaborated with a promise to solve the long-running issue. 'Nap Boxes' - an upright pod-like structure to help employees take a nap during work. Molly Gambhir gets you the details.

WION Fineprint | Nap box: a solution to Japan's toxic work culture

Japan, Singapore, and South Korea have the world's strongest passports, according to the most recent rankings made public by Henley Passport Index. For the sixth year running, a Japanese passport continues to be the most effective and allows for hassle-free travel into 193 nations. Singapore and South Korea, which are ranked second and third in the most recent Henley Passport Index, respectively, offer access to 192 nations.

What place does India hold?

The 87th-ranked Indian passport offers simple entry to 60 nations. The reopening of international travel has aided in the resilience of passports. After the coronavirus pandemic broke out in March 2020, India had to halt foreign flights in order to stop the spread of covid-19. After two years, the prohibition was ultimately lifted in March of this year. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-worlds-most-and-least-powerful-passports-499183">In pics - World's most and least powerful passports</a>

The full list of countries that accept Indian passports without requiring a visa is as follows: 
 
<img alt="Indian passport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23aa5815-b849-43d6-ad28-ed8801f938ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_24.JPG" />

<img alt="Indian passport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ca1c14b-9b2d-44be-aef3-fb78c7f18c9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_15.JPG" />

<img alt="Indian passport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a430105-7beb-4e46-ae13-cb895156bc7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_5.JPG" />

<img alt="Indian passport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2343ee-e752-4336-b582-df1c3a71de41" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_3.JPG" />

Access to a tourist site without a visa not only makes travel more affordable but also less complicated. Germany, Spain, Finland, Luxembourg, and Italy are among the other top 10 nations. According to the most recent rankings, the US is ranked seventh with a score of 186, while the UK is ranked sixth with access to 187 countries.

The 50th-ranked Russian travel documents are recognised by 119 countries with ease. Afghanistan's passport is the least useful, allowing entry into only 27 countries, whereas China came in at number 69, with access to 80 nations.

"The recovery and reclamation of our travel freedoms, and our innate instinct to move and migrate, will take time," Henley &amp; Partners Chairman Christian Kaelin said in a statement.

The index, which is based on data from 17 years, aids affluent people and governments in evaluating the worth of citizenship around the world by identifying which passports provide the greatest amounts of visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.

The Henley Passport Index is the first and most reliable ranking of all passports in the world based on how many countries their holders can visit without a visa. The index was developed by the research team at Henley &amp; Partners and is based exclusively on information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the largest and most reliable source of travel-related statistics.

(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>.

Japan, Singapore, and South Korea have the world's strongest passports, according to the most recent rankings made public by Henley Passport Index. For the sixth year running, a Japanese passport continues to be the most effective and allows for hassle-free travel into 193 nations.

Japan, Singapore, and South Korea have the world's strongest passports, according to the most recent rankings made public by Henley Passport Index. For the sixth year running, a Japanese passport continues to be the most effective and allows for hassle-free travel into 193 nations. Singapore and South Korea, which are ranked second and third in the most recent Henley Passport Index, respectively, offer access to 192 nations. What place does India hold? The 87th-ranked Indian passport offers simple entry to 60 nations. The reopening of international travel has aided in the resilience of passports. After the coronavirus pandemic broke out in March 2020, India had to halt foreign flights in order to stop the spread of covid-19. After two years, the prohibition was ultimately lifted in March of this year. In pics - World's most and least powerful passports The full list of countries that accept Indian passports without requiring a visa is as follows: Access to a tourist site without a visa not only makes travel more affordable but also less complicated. Germany, Spain, Finland, Luxembourg, and Italy are among the other top 10 nations. According to the most recent rankings, the US is ranked seventh with a score of 186, while the UK is ranked sixth with access to 187 countries. The 50th-ranked Russian travel documents are recognised by 119 countries with ease. Afghanistan's passport is the least useful, allowing entry into only 27 countries, whereas China came in at number 69, with access to 80 nations. "The recovery and reclamation of our travel freedoms, and our innate instinct to move and migrate, will take time," Henley & Partners Chairman Christian Kaelin said in a statement. The index, which is based on data from 17 years, aids affluent people and governments in evaluating the worth of citizenship around the world by identifying which passports provide the greatest amounts of visa-free or visa-on-arrival access. The Henley Passport Index is the first and most reliable ranking of all passports in the world based on how many countries their holders can visit without a visa. The index was developed by the research team at Henley & Partners and is based exclusively on information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the largest and most reliable source of travel-related statistics. (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.

How powerful is the Indian passport? Indians get visa-free access to these 60 countries

In pics - World's most and least powerful passports

The police are looking for a wild monkey that assaulted 10 people in Japan over the course of a fortnight. The attacks started on July 8 in the Ogori area in the southwest of the nation's Yamaguchi prefecture. In the most grievous incident, it broke into a residence and severely scratched a newborn. According to the Kyodo news agency, the monkey attacked nearby individuals last weekend after opening the screen door of a first-floor flat and scratching a four-year-old girl's leg, leaving her with minor wounds.

The alleged 40–50 cm tall monkey apparently broke into a nearby kindergarten class and scratched a four-year-old girl. Police in the area is on high alert. People have been told not to leave their windows open, and traps have been erected for the animal. Although leaflets warning locals to be on the lookout have been issued by the mayor's office, the animal was still at large as of Tuesday. About 40 monkey sightings have been reported in the region since May, according to the national broadcaster NHK.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Monkeys&nbsp;are not the only wild animals that have made Japanese citizens more watchful. Bear sightings and assaults have increased recently around the nation, along with few&nbsp;incidents involving wild boar, such as the one last year in which two animals harmed 12 people in a park in Hiroshima before being shot dead. Because there aren't enough acorns in the bears' natural habitat, they have to venture into populated areas in quest of food, which has led to an increase in bear sightings and assaults. The degradation of abandoned farmland that once served as a natural barrier between their habitat and human areas is another issue in depopulated rural areas.

(with inputs from agencies)

<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>

The police are looking for a wild monkey that assaulted 10 people in Japan over the course of a fortnight. The attacks started on July 8 in the Ogori area in the southwest of the nation's Yamaguchi prefecture.

The police are looking for a wild monkey that assaulted 10 people in Japan over the course of a fortnight. The attacks started on July 8 in the Ogori area in the southwest of the nation's Yamaguchi prefecture. In the most grievous incident, it broke into a residence and severely scratched a newborn. According to the Kyodo news agency, the monkey attacked nearby individuals last weekend after opening the screen door of a first-floor flat and scratching a four-year-old girl's leg, leaving her with minor wounds. The alleged 40–50 cm tall monkey apparently broke into a nearby kindergarten class and scratched a four-year-old girl. Police in the area is on high alert. People have been told not to leave their windows open, and traps have been erected for the animal. Although leaflets warning locals to be on the lookout have been issued by the mayor's office, the animal was still at large as of Tuesday. About 40 monkey sightings have been reported in the region since May, according to the national broadcaster NHK. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Monkeys are not the only wild animals that have made Japanese citizens more watchful. Bear sightings and assaults have increased recently around the nation, along with few incidents involving wild boar, such as the one last year in which two animals harmed 12 people in a park in Hiroshima before being shot dead. Because there aren't enough acorns in the bears' natural habitat, they have to venture into populated areas in quest of food, which has led to an increase in bear sightings and assaults. The degradation of abandoned farmland that once served as a natural barrier between their habitat and human areas is another issue in depopulated rural areas. (with inputs from agencies)

Police look for wild monkey in Japan that assaulted 10 people in fortnight

Japanese figure skating star Yuzuru&nbsp;Hanyu&nbsp;has called a press conference later Tuesday, with speculation swirling that the "Ice&nbsp;Prince" will announce his&nbsp;retirement&nbsp;from competition after struggling with injury at this year's Winter Olympics.

The two-time figure skating champion was dethroned as Olympic champion in February by US star Nathan Chen, finishing in a disappointing fourth place in Beijing. At the time, he said he would "like to skate at the Olympics again", but the Kyodo news agency and other Japanese media said Tuesday that the skating sensation will announce he is to hang up his blades.

With his elegant skating style and delicate, boyish looks, the 27-year-old has a legendary following among his "Fanyus", who shower the&nbsp;ice&nbsp;with Winnie the Pooh toys after his routines.

He began skating as a child in his native Sendai, in&nbsp;Japan's northeast and won his first Olympic gold in Sochi in 2014, before becoming the first man in 66 years to defend his title at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-championships-venezuelas-yulimar-rojas-seals-third-straight-world-triple-jump-crown-498713">World Championships: Venezuela's&nbsp;Yulimar&nbsp;Rojas seals third straight world triple jump crown</a>

But he has been dogged by injury in recent years, including an ankle ligament problem that he had to overcome to win his second Olympic gold. The same ankle forced him to miss the 2021 Grand Prix season, but he returned at national championships, where he attempted to become the first skater to land a quadruple axel jump which was expected to be his secret weapon at Beijing.&nbsp;

But instead, the elfin skater tumbled twice and said: "It feels like everything has gone wrong this time around." Hanyu&nbsp;is likely to continue skating at exhibitions and performances like his popular "Fantasy on&nbsp;Ice", reports said, catering to his adoring fanbase.

Japanese figure skating star Yuzuru Hanyu has called a press conference later Tuesday, with speculation swirling that the "Ice Prince" will announce his retirement from competition after struggling with injury at this year's Winter Olympics.

Japanese figure skating star Yuzuru Hanyu has called a press conference later Tuesday, with speculation swirling that the "Ice Prince" will announce his retirement from competition after struggling with injury at this year's Winter Olympics. The two-time figure skating champion was dethroned as Olympic champion in February by US star Nathan Chen, finishing in a disappointing fourth place in Beijing. At the time, he said he would "like to skate at the Olympics again", but the Kyodo news agency and other Japanese media said Tuesday that the skating sensation will announce he is to hang up his blades. With his elegant skating style and delicate, boyish looks, the 27-year-old has a legendary following among his "Fanyus", who shower the ice with Winnie the Pooh toys after his routines. He began skating as a child in his native Sendai, in Japan's northeast and won his first Olympic gold in Sochi in 2014, before becoming the first man in 66 years to defend his title at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games. ALSO READ | World Championships: Venezuela's Yulimar Rojas seals third straight world triple jump crown But he has been dogged by injury in recent years, including an ankle ligament problem that he had to overcome to win his second Olympic gold. The same ankle forced him to miss the 2021 Grand Prix season, but he returned at national championships, where he attempted to become the first skater to land a quadruple axel jump which was expected to be his secret weapon at Beijing. But instead, the elfin skater tumbled twice and said: "It feels like everything has gone wrong this time around." Hanyu is likely to continue skating at exhibitions and performances like his popular "Fantasy on Ice", reports said, catering to his adoring fanbase.

Japan's figure skating star Yuzuru Hanyu sparks retirement rumours

In order to help bring a healthier office culture to the country, Japan's Itoki Corporation and Koyoju Gohan KK are partnering to release vertical "nap boxes".

While Koyoju Gohan is designing the boxes, furniture specialist Itoki acquired a signed license agreement for the joint venture.

Japan, where people who sleep during the day are called inemuri, is infamous for overlong work office hours among employees.

Saeko Kawashima, communications director at Itoki told Bloomberg that "In Japan, there are a lot of people who will lock themselves up in the bathroom for a while, which I don't think is healthy. It's better to sleep in a comfortable location."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-tests-japan-inspired-nap-pods-for-hajj-159912">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia tests Japan-inspired 'nap pods' for hajj</a>

Providing support to the head, knees, and rear, the nap box will ensure that the person using it does not fall over.

This new development may nudge employees in Japan to take short power naps throughout the day, with research pointing to restorative rest increasing productivity.

"I think a lot of Japanese people tend to work continuously with no breaks," Kawashima said.&nbsp;

"We are hoping that companies can use this as a more flexible approach to resting."

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In order to help bring a healthier office culture to the country, Japan's Itoki Corporation and Koyoju Gohan KK are partnering to release vertical "nap boxes". While Koyoju Gohan is designing the boxes, furniture specialist Itoki acquired a signed license agreement for the joint venture.

In order to help bring a healthier office culture to the country, Japan's Itoki Corporation and Koyoju Gohan KK are partnering to release vertical "nap boxes". While Koyoju Gohan is designing the boxes, furniture specialist Itoki acquired a signed license agreement for the joint venture. Japan, where people who sleep during the day are called inemuri, is infamous for overlong work office hours among employees. Saeko Kawashima, communications director at Itoki told Bloomberg that "In Japan, there are a lot of people who will lock themselves up in the bathroom for a while, which I don't think is healthy. It's better to sleep in a comfortable location." Also read | Saudi Arabia tests Japan-inspired 'nap pods' for hajj Providing support to the head, knees, and rear, the nap box will ensure that the person using it does not fall over. This new development may nudge employees in Japan to take short power naps throughout the day, with research pointing to restorative rest increasing productivity. "I think a lot of Japanese people tend to work continuously with no breaks," Kawashima said. "We are hoping that companies can use this as a more flexible approach to resting." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Japanese companies will introduce upright 'nap box' for overworked employees

30 green sea turtles were stabbed in Japan. Nearly half a million animals were killed during lab tests in Belgium. UN report says 1 million species could become extinct because. Palki Sharma tells you why you must act now.

Gravitas: UN Report: 1 Million species on track to extinction

Japan's two-time Olympic figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu retired from competition aged 27 on Tuesday, after struggling with injuries at this year's Beijing Games. It brings down the curtain on a glittering career that has seen the elegant skater become a national icon who is trailed around the world by adoring fans.

It follows a string of injuries, including at February's Games, where the "Ice Prince" was dethroned as Olympic champion by rival Nathan Chen of the United States, with Hanyu finishing a disappointing fourth in Beijing.

Wearing a dark suit and bowing deeply as he took to the stage, Hanyu told a packed press conference in Tokyo that he was finished as a competitive athlete.

"I'll no longer be compared with other skaters as a competitor," Hanyu said, saying he will concentrate on skating in exhibition shows for his fans. "I have no sadness. I want to continue to do my best."

Hanyu made clear his discomfort with the idea of being considered retired.

"I don't like using the word 'retire'. Ice shows tend to be considered something elegant and fun, but I want to remain more of an athlete.... I want people to see me as I continue to fight," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japans-figure-skating-star-yuzuru-hanyu-sparks-retirement-rumours-498715">Japan's figure skating star Yuzuru Hanyu sparks retirement rumours</a>

With his graceful skating style and delicate, boyish looks, Hanyu is an icon for his "Fanyu" supporters, who shower the ice with Winnie the Pooh toys after his routines.

He won his first Olympic singles title at the 2014 Sochi Games and then became the first man in 66 years to defend his crown four years later in Pyeongchang.

He also won the world championships in 2014 and 2017 but he has been dogged by injury in recent years, including an ankle ligament problem that he had to overcome to win his second Olympic gold.

The same ankle forced him to miss the 2021 Grand Prix season, but he made a successful return at last year's Japanese national championships.

It was there that he attempted to become the first skater to land a quadruple axel jump, which was expected to be his secret weapon at the Beijing Games. But instead, he tumbled twice and said afterwards: "It feels like everything has gone wrong this time around."

Hanyu said Tuesday he had considered ending his competitive career after Pyeongchang in 2018, but decided instead to continue to fight for his goal of the quadruple axel.

"As far as competitions go, as far as their results, I think I have been able to take all the things I wanted to take. I think I have grown in such a way that I don't seek that kind of evaluation anymore," he said.

The elusive quadruple axel remains on his mind, he admitted, and the skating sensation said he would "work harder" so he could one day "land it successfully in front of everyone".

"What I want is to remain someone who continues to work hard toward dreams and goals," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daria-kasatkina-comes-out-as-gay-slams-russian-stance-on-homosexuality-498664">Daria Kasatkina comes out as gay, slams Russian stance on homosexuality</a>

Hanyu is a national hero in Japan, where he became the youngest recipient of his country's prestigious People's Honour Award in 2018, and his every move is headline news.

But he still remains something of an enigma despite the huge attention, rarely granting interviews and having no social media presence. His fans spend fortunes watching him compete and even carve sculptures of the rake-thin star, who is known as "Yuzu" to his devotees.

Hanyu began skating as a child in his native Sendai, in Japan's northeast. When the massive earthquake and tsunami hit the region in 2011, he was practising on the ice and was forced to flee the rink on his skates. 
&nbsp;

Japan's two-time Olympic figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu retired from competition aged 27 on Tuesday, after struggling with injuries at this year's Beijing Games.

Japan's two-time Olympic figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu retired from competition aged 27 on Tuesday, after struggling with injuries at this year's Beijing Games. It brings down the curtain on a glittering career that has seen the elegant skater become a national icon who is trailed around the world by adoring fans. It follows a string of injuries, including at February's Games, where the "Ice Prince" was dethroned as Olympic champion by rival Nathan Chen of the United States, with Hanyu finishing a disappointing fourth in Beijing. Wearing a dark suit and bowing deeply as he took to the stage, Hanyu told a packed press conference in Tokyo that he was finished as a competitive athlete. "I'll no longer be compared with other skaters as a competitor," Hanyu said, saying he will concentrate on skating in exhibition shows for his fans. "I have no sadness. I want to continue to do my best." Hanyu made clear his discomfort with the idea of being considered retired. "I don't like using the word 'retire'. Ice shows tend to be considered something elegant and fun, but I want to remain more of an athlete.... I want people to see me as I continue to fight," he said. Also Read: Japan's figure skating star Yuzuru Hanyu sparks retirement rumours With his graceful skating style and delicate, boyish looks, Hanyu is an icon for his "Fanyu" supporters, who shower the ice with Winnie the Pooh toys after his routines. He won his first Olympic singles title at the 2014 Sochi Games and then became the first man in 66 years to defend his crown four years later in Pyeongchang. He also won the world championships in 2014 and 2017 but he has been dogged by injury in recent years, including an ankle ligament problem that he had to overcome to win his second Olympic gold. The same ankle forced him to miss the 2021 Grand Prix season, but he made a successful return at last year's Japanese national championships. It was there that he attempted to become the first skater to land a quadruple axel jump, which was expected to be his secret weapon at the Beijing Games. But instead, he tumbled twice and said afterwards: "It feels like everything has gone wrong this time around." Hanyu said Tuesday he had considered ending his competitive career after Pyeongchang in 2018, but decided instead to continue to fight for his goal of the quadruple axel. "As far as competitions go, as far as their results, I think I have been able to take all the things I wanted to take. I think I have grown in such a way that I don't seek that kind of evaluation anymore," he said. The elusive quadruple axel remains on his mind, he admitted, and the skating sensation said he would "work harder" so he could one day "land it successfully in front of everyone". "What I want is to remain someone who continues to work hard toward dreams and goals," he said. Also Read: Daria Kasatkina comes out as gay, slams Russian stance on homosexuality Hanyu is a national hero in Japan, where he became the youngest recipient of his country's prestigious People's Honour Award in 2018, and his every move is headline news. But he still remains something of an enigma despite the huge attention, rarely granting interviews and having no social media presence. His fans spend fortunes watching him compete and even carve sculptures of the rake-thin star, who is known as "Yuzu" to his devotees. Hanyu began skating as a child in his native Sendai, in Japan's northeast. When the massive earthquake and tsunami hit the region in 2011, he was practising on the ice and was forced to flee the rink on his skates.

Two-time Olympic skating champion Japan's 'ice prince' Yuzuru Hanyu retires aged 27

In a shocking incident, Japanese police found 30 endangered green sea turtles with wounds around their neck.

The turtles, found near the remote Japanese island of Kumejima in southern Okinawa prefecture, were bleeding and barely breathing.

According to a police officer from the Naha Police Station in Okinawa, they had wounds around their necks caused by what appeared to be a blade.

After the sea turtles were found during low tide, police continues to investigate and question witnesses.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-climate-change-threatens-green-sea-turtles-497405/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Yoshi Tsukakoshi, a spokesman at the Kumejima sea turtle museum, said that the area where the sea turtles were found in their natural habitat&nbsp;was covered with seagrass.

Highlighting that they can be considered a "nuisance" because they rip the nets, he added that the sea turtles get entangled in the nets laid by local fishers.

"Some fishers think the turtles eat all the seagrass before it grows and that prevents the fish from spawning in the area," said Tsukakoshi.

Sea turtles, which are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, are coming under increasing threat from factors such as coastal development.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In a shocking incident, Japanese police found 30 endangered green sea turtles with wounds around their neck. The turtles, found near the remote Japanese island of Kumejima in southern Okinawa prefecture, were bleeding and barely breathing.

In a shocking incident, Japanese police found 30 endangered green sea turtles with wounds around their neck. The turtles, found near the remote Japanese island of Kumejima in southern Okinawa prefecture, were bleeding and barely breathing. According to a police officer from the Naha Police Station in Okinawa, they had wounds around their necks caused by what appeared to be a blade. After the sea turtles were found during low tide, police continues to investigate and question witnesses. × Yoshi Tsukakoshi, a spokesman at the Kumejima sea turtle museum, said that the area where the sea turtles were found in their natural habitat was covered with seagrass. Highlighting that they can be considered a "nuisance" because they rip the nets, he added that the sea turtles get entangled in the nets laid by local fishers. "Some fishers think the turtles eat all the seagrass before it grows and that prevents the fish from spawning in the area," said Tsukakoshi. Sea turtles, which are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, are coming under increasing threat from factors such as coastal development. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Japan: Police finds 30 endangered green sea turtles with 'bleeding' neck wounds

South Korea, Japan seek reset on decades of historical disputes

Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign. At the same time, he came to Japan as a man of steel till the end. His passion for his country made him a great leader.

He stood by Taiwan. Then he established good relations with the world. He played a key role in maintaining peace. He protested the war.

He unconditionally condemned China for unilateral attacks. Not only that, he resisted. Bahusha must think that China is breathing a sigh of relief today with the death of Shinzo Ambe.

Shinzo Abe has played a key role in strengthening the country in all areas. The way he transformed himself from a person to a supreme leader is remarkable.

Like every political leader, Shinzo had his flaws. But it must be said that his efforts in making the country move forward and introducing reforms are unparalleled.

He served as Prime Minister of Japan for a long time. Shinzo Abe succeeded in making Japan recover from the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster.

He put the financial system on track. He paved the way for the future of the country. He resigned from the post of Prime Minister due to illness. He was the Prime Minister for eight years.

Before him, the country saw six prime ministers in six years. But no prime minister has been as influential as Shinzo Abe. He made Japan recover from a nuclear disaster.

He strengthened the financial system. He breathed life into the defence sector. He has allocated more in the budget. He walked alongside then-US President Donald Trump.

He continued friendly relations with India. Against China. He showed him the dots for that country. He stood by Taiwan.

The whole world today mourns the loss of a great leader and even more so, a giant of faith in the future. 
 
(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" 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>.

Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign.

Shinzo Abe, who put the country of Japan on the path of development, which was suffering from economic deprivation, is no more. He was shot. An era has ended in a long political reign. At the same time, he came to Japan as a man of steel till the end. His passion for his country made him a great leader. He stood by Taiwan. Then he established good relations with the world. He played a key role in maintaining peace. He protested the war. He unconditionally condemned China for unilateral attacks. Not only that, he resisted. Bahusha must think that China is breathing a sigh of relief today with the death of Shinzo Ambe. Shinzo Abe has played a key role in strengthening the country in all areas. The way he transformed himself from a person to a supreme leader is remarkable. Like every political leader, Shinzo had his flaws. But it must be said that his efforts in making the country move forward and introducing reforms are unparalleled. He served as Prime Minister of Japan for a long time. Shinzo Abe succeeded in making Japan recover from the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster. He put the financial system on track. He paved the way for the future of the country. He resigned from the post of Prime Minister due to illness. He was the Prime Minister for eight years. Before him, the country saw six prime ministers in six years. But no prime minister has been as influential as Shinzo Abe. He made Japan recover from a nuclear disaster. He strengthened the financial system. He breathed life into the defence sector. He has allocated more in the budget. He walked alongside then-US President Donald Trump. He continued friendly relations with India. Against China. He showed him the dots for that country. He stood by Taiwan. The whole world today mourns the loss of a great leader and even more so, a giant of faith in the future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

Shinzo, the lost giant: An irreversible disaster for Japan

From supermoon in several cities to COVID-19 surge in Japan, here are some impactful images from around the world on July 12, 2022.

World in Pictures: Super moon spotted in cities; Covid-19 surge in Japan | WION Originals

japan

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