A team of Ukrainian sumo wrestlers meanwhile is training in Japan for the upcoming world games. They had to shift bases after practice was halted by the Russian invasion. The six-member Ukrainian amateur sumo team are set to fly to the United States on July 5th, they are scheduled to compete in the World Games.

Ukrainian sumo wrestlers train in Japan ahead of World Games

North Korea criticised the US, South Korea and Japan's recent agreement on strengthening military cooperation. It said the agreement is a means to materialise a US plan for a military alliance like NATO in the region.

'US spreading rumours to gain military supremacy,' says North Korea

Recently, Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Japanese ambassador Hideaki Mizukoshi amid economic crisis in the country. He said that Japan is ready to support Sri Lanka for its economic programme with the IMF.

Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa meets Japanese ambassador amid economic crisis

Temperatures in Tokyo broke nearly 150-years record and hundreds were treated in the hospital due to heatstroke. 37 million people around Tokyo told to conserve electricity.

WION Climate Tracker: Japan sees record temperatures, heat stroke puts hundreds in hospital

Amid the ongoing heatwave in Japan, thousands of visitors flocked to Yomiuri Land amusement park. Temperatures have risen above 35 degrees Celsius in Tokyo.

Why are people flocking to this waterpark in Tokyo?

An 87-year-old Japanese man, who spent nearly three decades living on a desert island in a bid to escape civilization, has been granted his wish to bid farewell to his old island home one final time. Masafumi Nagasaki, dubbed the “naked hermit”, was a photographer in his fifties when he got fed up with civilisation. In 1989, he left his wife and two rumoured children and moved alone to Sotobanari, 1-km-wide densely vegetated and unpopulated islet, as he struggled to adapt to modern society in Japan and wanted to be alone on the isolated island. However, his stay was by no means easy. For one, there were no freshwater hundreds of kilometres south of Japan’s mainland. Also, his clothes were washed away in a typhoon, thus Nagasaki preferred being naked.

Gradually, he made Sotobanari his new home and lived there all by himself for 29 years.

But in 2018, a local fisherman spotted him lying unconscious on a beach. Doctors were called in who then took Nagasaki for hospital treatment as his health was deteriorating. He was later moved out of the island and that’s when his story became public.

Nagasaki’s journey was chronicled by Alvaro Cerezo, who documents island castaways and runs a company called Docastaway that drops tourists on deserted islands to live completely alone, according to the New York Post.

After his hospital treatment, the government gave him a bedroom and a “very little money” to cover his basic necessities.

Sadly, Nagaski has been unable to make many friends, as he had spent most of his time confined during the coronavirus pandemic.

“His tiny room became like his desert island where he could isolate himself, as it was the only place where he was able to live with clothes off and feel free like he did for the last 29 years,” Cerezo&nbsp;wrote in a blog post.

To pass the time, Nagasaki would often collect trash from the street but grew frustrated by the amount of pollution created by city inhabitants, Cerezo said.

“In a quintessential society like that of the Japanese, there was hardly anyone who could either understand his eccentric way of life or his extreme desire to live naked on a desert island,” Cerezo said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-alien-life-is-likely-buried-deep-under-mars-surface-nasa-study-493117" hreflang="en">Ancient alien life is likely buried deep under Mars’ surface: NASA study</a>

The 87-year-old returned to Sotonabi earlier this month with the help of Cerezo’s company, Docastaway.

But was “luckily not sad to leave”, Cerezo told the New York Post.

He added, “It seemed he was satisfied to have had the opportunity to bid farewell to his island.”

(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>

An 87-year-old Japanese man, who spent nearly three decades living on a desert island in a bid to escape civilization, has been granted his wish to bid farewell to his old island home one final time.

An 87-year-old Japanese man, who spent nearly three decades living on a desert island in a bid to escape civilization, has been granted his wish to bid farewell to his old island home one final time. Masafumi Nagasaki, dubbed the “naked hermit”, was a photographer in his fifties when he got fed up with civilisation. In 1989, he left his wife and two rumoured children and moved alone to Sotobanari, 1-km-wide densely vegetated and unpopulated islet, as he struggled to adapt to modern society in Japan and wanted to be alone on the isolated island. However, his stay was by no means easy. For one, there were no freshwater hundreds of kilometres south of Japan’s mainland. Also, his clothes were washed away in a typhoon, thus Nagasaki preferred being naked. Gradually, he made Sotobanari his new home and lived there all by himself for 29 years. But in 2018, a local fisherman spotted him lying unconscious on a beach. Doctors were called in who then took Nagasaki for hospital treatment as his health was deteriorating. He was later moved out of the island and that’s when his story became public. Nagasaki’s journey was chronicled by Alvaro Cerezo, who documents island castaways and runs a company called Docastaway that drops tourists on deserted islands to live completely alone, according to the New York Post. After his hospital treatment, the government gave him a bedroom and a “very little money” to cover his basic necessities. Sadly, Nagaski has been unable to make many friends, as he had spent most of his time confined during the coronavirus pandemic. “His tiny room became like his desert island where he could isolate himself, as it was the only place where he was able to live with clothes off and feel free like he did for the last 29 years,” Cerezo wrote in a blog post. To pass the time, Nagasaki would often collect trash from the street but grew frustrated by the amount of pollution created by city inhabitants, Cerezo said. “In a quintessential society like that of the Japanese, there was hardly anyone who could either understand his eccentric way of life or his extreme desire to live naked on a desert island,” Cerezo said. Also read | Ancient alien life is likely buried deep under Mars’ surface: NASA study The 87-year-old returned to Sotonabi earlier this month with the help of Cerezo’s company, Docastaway. But was “luckily not sad to leave”, Cerezo told the New York Post. He added, “It seemed he was satisfied to have had the opportunity to bid farewell to his island.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan’s ‘naked hermit’ who spent around 30 years on tropical island alone returns for final farewell

Japan has registered 3,803 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday. The Tokyo metropolitan government will raise its alert level for new coronavirus infections to the second-highest of four levels.

Japan’s capital to raise Covid infections alert level to 2nd highest

Japan has been reeling under the worst heat wave that the country has seen since 1875. Hundreds of people were treated for heat strokes as the temperatures in Tokyo broke nearly 150 year records for the month of June. Meanwhile, China has also issued a yellow alert for high temperatures and heat waves in various parts of the country

Temperatures soar across China & Japan | Heatwave prompts power crunch warning

Japan heatwave breaks 150-year record just when elections are around

Government urges people to conserve energy, and fossil fuel shortages are also due to sanctions on Russia. Authorities warn of power shortage

Japan engulfs with intense heat wave

For the first time ever under a new system, the Japan government issued an "electricity supply shortage warning" on Sunday, stating that the Tokyo area was anticipated to experience a shortage Monday afternoon due to the likelihood that temperatures in the Kanto region would continue high.

The government urged citizens to take steps to conserve electricity, especially on Monday between 3 and 6 p.m.; these steps included turning off superfluous lights and taking precautions against heatstroke.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turn-off-lights-japanese-capital-residents-told-to-conserve-energy-or-face-power-cuts-as-heatwave-worsens-492261">'Turn off lights': Japanese capital residents told to conserve energy or face power cuts as heatwave worsens</a>

The Japanese archipelago has experienced record high temperatures for June in some regions following the conclusion of the rainy season in Tokyo at its earliest time since records have been kept.

The Tokyo Electric Power Company serves the area in question, and the Economy and Industry Ministry asked residents to save energy in the afternoon, especially when demand peaks at around 4 or 5 p.m.

Electrical demand was more than anticipated, according to Kaname Ogawa, director of the ministry's electricity supply policy.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan engulfs with intense heat wave

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-engulfs-with-intense-heat-wave-492478/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Authorities recommended reducing the use of air conditioners, turning off lights when not in use, and taking precautions to prevent heat stroke.

The temperature reached 40.2 degrees on Saturday at Isezaki, which is located north of Tokyo.

On Monday, the mercury in Tokyo's downtown reached about 35C.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-fires-heat-waves-cause-climate-anxiety-in-youth-488683">Report: Fires, heat waves cause 'climate anxiety' in youth</a>

The annual summer rainy season has officially ended earlier than ever since records were first kept in 1951 by the Japan Meteorological Agency, according to weather officials.

The rains typically continue into July and reduce the summertime heat. 
&nbsp;

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>.

For the first time ever under a new system, the Japan government issued an "electricity supply shortage warning" on Sunday, stating that the Tokyo area was anticipated to experience a shortage Monday afternoon due to the likelihood that temperatures in the Kanto region would continue high.

For the first time ever under a new system, the Japan government issued an "electricity supply shortage warning" on Sunday, stating that the Tokyo area was anticipated to experience a shortage Monday afternoon due to the likelihood that temperatures in the Kanto region would continue high. The government urged citizens to take steps to conserve electricity, especially on Monday between 3 and 6 p.m.; these steps included turning off superfluous lights and taking precautions against heatstroke. Also read | 'Turn off lights': Japanese capital residents told to conserve energy or face power cuts as heatwave worsens The Japanese archipelago has experienced record high temperatures for June in some regions following the conclusion of the rainy season in Tokyo at its earliest time since records have been kept. The Tokyo Electric Power Company serves the area in question, and the Economy and Industry Ministry asked residents to save energy in the afternoon, especially when demand peaks at around 4 or 5 p.m. Electrical demand was more than anticipated, according to Kaname Ogawa, director of the ministry's electricity supply policy. Watch | Japan engulfs with intense heat wave Authorities recommended reducing the use of air conditioners, turning off lights when not in use, and taking precautions to prevent heat stroke. The temperature reached 40.2 degrees on Saturday at Isezaki, which is located north of Tokyo. On Monday, the mercury in Tokyo's downtown reached about 35C. Also read | Report: Fires, heat waves cause 'climate anxiety' in youth The annual summer rainy season has officially ended earlier than ever since records were first kept in 1951 by the Japan Meteorological Agency, according to weather officials. The rains typically continue into July and reduce the summertime heat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan issues first 'energy shortage warning' amid soaring temperatures

With summer rains ending 22 days early, an intense heat wave has engulfed Japan. Authorities warn of power shortages. According to met department, high temperatures are expected until early July.

Authorities warn of power shortages as Intense heat wave engulfs Japan

A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course.

The video was shot by journalist Praveen Thakur of Dainik Bhaskar depicting the devastating condition of National Highway 227 that passes through the Madhubani area of Bihar. According to a Dainik Bhaskar report, this issue has been raised multiple times in the legislature, but the road has still not been repaired.

Political strategist and an ardent critic of the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar, Prashant Kishore tweeted in Hindi, "Reminiscent of the condition of roads in Bihar in the Jungle Raj of the 90s, this is National Highway 227 (L) of Madhubani district of Bihar. Recently, Nitish Kumar Ji was speaking to the people of the road construction department at an event that they should tell everyone about the good condition of roads in Bihar."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
90 के दशक के जंगलराज में बिहार में सड़कों की स्थिति की याद दिलाता यह बिहार के मधुबनी जिले का नेशनल हाईवे 227 (L) है। 
 
अभी हाल में ही <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nitishkumar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nitishkumar</a> जी एक कार्यक्रम में पथ निर्माण विभाग के लोगों को बोल रहे थे कि बिहार में सड़कों की अच्छी स्थिति के बारे में उन्हें सबको बताना चाहिए। <a href="https://t.co/Qp0ehEluty">pic.twitter.com/Qp0ehEluty</a>
— Prashant Kishor (@PrashantKishor) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrashantKishor/status/1539820377605492736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The leader of the opposition in the Bihar assembly, Tejaswi Yadav also tweeted on the issue, saying, “The BJP government, which won 39 out of 40 Lok Sabha from Bihar, has built a wonderful international road in Bihar, to see which tourists from all over the country are coming to Bihar. Seeing the quality and design of the road in New India, tourists are spontaneously saying Ah! Double engined Jungle Raj! O Vishwaguru!”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
बिहार से 40 में से 39 लोकसभा जीतने वाली बीजेपी सरकार ने बिहार में गज़ब की अंतरराष्ट्रीय सड़क बनवाई है जिसे देखने गुजरात से लेकर देशभर के पर्यटक बिहार आ रहे है। 
 
न्यू इंडिया में सड़क की गुणवत्ता और डिज़ाइन को देखते ही पर्यटक अनायास कह रहे है आह! डबल इंजनधारी जंगलराज! हे विश्वगुरु! <a href="https://t.co/OMsWWy7Hyg">pic.twitter.com/OMsWWy7Hyg</a>
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1540166784765943809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The road is being compared to the Dragon God's Pond adventure course in Takeshi’s Castle, where contestants have to cross a lake via twenty-five stones, five of which are loose and sinking when stepped on.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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>.

A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course.

A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course. The video was shot by journalist Praveen Thakur of Dainik Bhaskar depicting the devastating condition of National Highway 227 that passes through the Madhubani area of Bihar. According to a Dainik Bhaskar report, this issue has been raised multiple times in the legislature, but the road has still not been repaired. Political strategist and an ardent critic of the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar, Prashant Kishore tweeted in Hindi, "Reminiscent of the condition of roads in Bihar in the Jungle Raj of the 90s, this is National Highway 227 (L) of Madhubani district of Bihar. Recently, Nitish Kumar Ji was speaking to the people of the road construction department at an event that they should tell everyone about the good condition of roads in Bihar." 90 के दशक के जंगलराज में बिहार में सड़कों की स्थिति की याद दिलाता यह बिहार के मधुबनी जिले का नेशनल हाईवे 227 (L) है। अभी हाल में ही #Nitishkumar जी एक कार्यक्रम में पथ निर्माण विभाग के लोगों को बोल रहे थे कि बिहार में सड़कों की अच्छी स्थिति के बारे में उन्हें सबको बताना चाहिए। pic.twitter.com/Qp0ehEluty — Prashant Kishor (@PrashantKishor) June 23, 2022 × The leader of the opposition in the Bihar assembly, Tejaswi Yadav also tweeted on the issue, saying, “The BJP government, which won 39 out of 40 Lok Sabha from Bihar, has built a wonderful international road in Bihar, to see which tourists from all over the country are coming to Bihar. Seeing the quality and design of the road in New India, tourists are spontaneously saying Ah! Double engined Jungle Raj! O Vishwaguru!” बिहार से 40 में से 39 लोकसभा जीतने वाली बीजेपी सरकार ने बिहार में गज़ब की अंतरराष्ट्रीय सड़क बनवाई है जिसे देखने गुजरात से लेकर देशभर के पर्यटक बिहार आ रहे है। न्यू इंडिया में सड़क की गुणवत्ता और डिज़ाइन को देखते ही पर्यटक अनायास कह रहे है आह! डबल इंजनधारी जंगलराज! हे विश्वगुरु! pic.twitter.com/OMsWWy7Hyg — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 24, 2022 × The road is being compared to the Dragon God's Pond adventure course in Takeshi’s Castle, where contestants have to cross a lake via twenty-five stones, five of which are loose and sinking when stepped on. (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.

Watch: Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle

The United States, Australia,&nbsp;Japan,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;and&nbsp;the United Kingdom launched an informal&nbsp;group&nbsp;aimed at boosting economic&nbsp;and&nbsp;diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;nations, the White House said on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-plane-endangered-peace-and-stability-after-flying-through-taiwan-strait-says-china-491610">US military plane ‘endangered peace and stability’ after flying through Taiwan Strait, says China</a>

The Biden administration has vowed to commit more resources to the Indo-Pacific&nbsp;as China seeks to boost economic, military&nbsp;and&nbsp;police links with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;nations hungry for foreign investment.

The&nbsp;group, dubbed Partners in the Blue&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;(PBP), will seek to support&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;regionalism&nbsp;and&nbsp;strengthen economic ties between the&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;islands&nbsp;and&nbsp;the rest of the world.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The turf war in South Pacific

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-the-turf-war-in-south-pacific-487306/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We are united in our shared determination to support a region that benefits the peoples of the&nbsp;Pacific. We are also united in how we realize this vision according to principles of&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;regionalism, sovereignty, transparency, accountability,&nbsp;and&nbsp;most of all, led&nbsp;and&nbsp;guided by the&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;Islands," the White House said.

White House Indo-Pacific&nbsp;coordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday he expects more high-level U.S. officials to visit&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;countries as Washington steps up its engagement to counter China in the strategically important region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strategy-for-indo-pacific-region-fueling-future-conflict-china-487354">US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China​</a>​​​​​​

Campbell said the United States needed more diplomatic facilities across the region,&nbsp;and&nbsp;more contact with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;countries that at times "receive lesser attention."

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>.

The United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United Kingdom launched an informal group aimed at boosting economic and diplomatic ties with Pacific island nations, the White House said on Friday.

The United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United Kingdom launched an informal group aimed at boosting economic and diplomatic ties with Pacific island nations, the White House said on Friday. Also read | US military plane ‘endangered peace and stability’ after flying through Taiwan Strait, says China The Biden administration has vowed to commit more resources to the Indo-Pacific as China seeks to boost economic, military and police links with Pacific island nations hungry for foreign investment. The group, dubbed Partners in the Blue Pacific (PBP), will seek to support Pacific regionalism and strengthen economic ties between the Pacific islands and the rest of the world. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The turf war in South Pacific "We are united in our shared determination to support a region that benefits the peoples of the Pacific. We are also united in how we realize this vision according to principles of Pacific regionalism, sovereignty, transparency, accountability, and most of all, led and guided by the Pacific Islands," the White House said. White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday he expects more high-level U.S. officials to visit Pacific island countries as Washington steps up its engagement to counter China in the strategically important region. Also read | US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China Campbell said the United States needed more diplomatic facilities across the region, and more contact with Pacific island countries that at times "receive lesser attention." 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.

US, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and United Kingdom form Pacific group

Afghanistan was rocked by earthquakes killing nearly 1,000 people. After the earthquake, the Taliban-led government asked for international support. Countries including South Korea, Pakistan and Japan came forward to help Afghanistan.

Afghanistan earthquake: Countries providing aid after death toll touch 1,000

The final price tag for last year's Tokyo Olympics was more than double the city's original 2013 estimate after a one-year coronavirus postponement added to the already hefty bill. The organising committee said Tuesday the Games had cost 1.42 trillion yen, the equivalent of $13 billion at the time. At today's rates, with the yen at a 24-year low against the dollar, the figure would be $10.4 billion.

Tokyo 2020 was held a year later than planned because of the pandemic — the first Olympics postponed in peacetime — and spectators were banned from nearly all events, which were held under strict Covid-19 countermeasures.

The Games cost twice the 734 billion yen that the Tokyo Games organisers had predicted in their bid to the International Olympic Committee in 2013, but less than the final pre-Games budget unveiled in December 2020.

Despite losing out on ticket sales, organisers saved some cash by simplifying events and avoiding the cost of hosting millions of fans.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fina-bars-transgenders-athletes-in-womens-competitions-will-other-sporting-bodies-follow-suit-490377">FINA bars transgenders athletes in women's competitions: Will other sporting bodies follow suit?</a>

The organising committee, which disbands at the end of June, said the event's final cost was 200 billion yen less than projected in its pre-Games budget in 2020 and 29 billion yen less than the final slimmed-down costs prediction in December 2021.

"It's up to everyone involved in this event to pass on the legacy of the Tokyo Olympics to the next generation," said Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto.

Tokyo experienced a Covid-19 surge last year as the Olympics approached, fuelling fears the event could worsen outbreaks in Japan and possibly the world.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-sign-porto-midfielder-fabio-vieira-on-a-long-term-contract-490625">Arsenal sign Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira on a long-term contract</a>

The northern Japanese city of Sapporo is bidding to host the Winter Olympics in 2030.

A March survey of Sapporo and the surrounding region showed that a majority of the public are in favour of holding the event.

Officials have ruled out holding a public referendum on the 2030 bid.

The final price tag for last year's Tokyo Olympics was more than double the city's original 2013 estimate after a one-year coronavirus postponement added to the already hefty bill.

The final price tag for last year's Tokyo Olympics was more than double the city's original 2013 estimate after a one-year coronavirus postponement added to the already hefty bill. The organising committee said Tuesday the Games had cost 1.42 trillion yen, the equivalent of $13 billion at the time. At today's rates, with the yen at a 24-year low against the dollar, the figure would be $10.4 billion. Tokyo 2020 was held a year later than planned because of the pandemic — the first Olympics postponed in peacetime — and spectators were banned from nearly all events, which were held under strict Covid-19 countermeasures. The Games cost twice the 734 billion yen that the Tokyo Games organisers had predicted in their bid to the International Olympic Committee in 2013, but less than the final pre-Games budget unveiled in December 2020. Despite losing out on ticket sales, organisers saved some cash by simplifying events and avoiding the cost of hosting millions of fans. Also Read: FINA bars transgenders athletes in women's competitions: Will other sporting bodies follow suit? The organising committee, which disbands at the end of June, said the event's final cost was 200 billion yen less than projected in its pre-Games budget in 2020 and 29 billion yen less than the final slimmed-down costs prediction in December 2021. "It's up to everyone involved in this event to pass on the legacy of the Tokyo Olympics to the next generation," said Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto. Tokyo experienced a Covid-19 surge last year as the Olympics approached, fuelling fears the event could worsen outbreaks in Japan and possibly the world. Also Read: Arsenal sign Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira on a long-term contract The northern Japanese city of Sapporo is bidding to host the Winter Olympics in 2030. A March survey of Sapporo and the surrounding region showed that a majority of the public are in favour of holding the event. Officials have ruled out holding a public referendum on the 2030 bid.

Delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics cost double original estimate at 1.42 trillion yen

Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse.

Underlining the scale of the problem, the All Japan Judo Federation cancelled a prestigious nationwide tournament for children as young as 10, warning they were being pushed too hard.

A pressure group dedicated to those injured or killed while practising the martial art says that 121 judo-related deaths were reported in Japanese schools between 1983 and 2016.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-covid-cases-fall-japan-allows-school-kids-to-talk-during-lunch-489208">As Covid cases fall, Japanese school kids allowed to talk during lunch</a>

Japan regularly dominates the Olympics judo medal table but federation president Yasuhiro Yamashita told AFP that the values of the sport are being lost as parents and coaches chase short-term glory.

"Judo is a sport that emphasises humanity," said Yamashita, who is also the president of the Japanese Olympic Committee and won gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.

"If you see no worth in anything but winning, and the result is all that matters, that gets distorted."

The number of people taking part in judo in Japan has plummeted by almost half since 2004 to about 120,000, according to the federation's figures.

Children account for the steepest decline in numbers.

Reports have emerged of primary school children being forced to lose weight -- sometimes up to six kilogrammes (13 pounds) -- so they can compete in a lighter division.

Young children are taught the same dangerous moves as Olympic athletes and intense training regimes can leave them injured or burnt out.

Parents and coaches have been known to berate referees during matches and corporal punishment still exists, despite reforms in a sport that has been plagued by abuse and bullying scandals over the years.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan announces one-year long jail term for online insults

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-announces-one-year-long-jail-term-for-online-insults-488622/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The All Japan Judo Federation decided to take action in March by cancelling a national tournament for elite children aged between 10 and 12, planning to replace it with events such as lectures and practice sessions.

The backlash was fierce with angry parents and coaches accusing the federation of dashing children's dreams and jeopardising Japan's status as the bastion of judo.

Violence, not words&nbsp;

Junior high school student Rion Fukuo, 13, a regional champion last year, told AFP at her judo club in the central Shizuoka region that she "feels sorry" for this year's primary school children who have no tournament to aim for.

Kosuke Moroi, whose 12-year-old daughter attends the same club, said he was "disappointed" when he first heard the news but concluded it was "a good decision" after learning more about the reasons.

Yamashita said scrapping the competition had put a spotlight on "a problem that involves Japanese society".

"It's been two-and-a-half months since we decided to cancel the competition and people are still debating it on TV and in newspapers," he said, adding that most opinions "have been in favour".

Judo and other martial arts were used for military training in Japan before World War II and servicemen would visit schools to give lessons.

Martial arts were banned during the post-war US occupation but they later were recognised as sports, with judo making its Olympic debut at the 1964 Tokyo Games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bank-of-japan-keeps-easing-despite-global-rate-hikes-489112">Also read | Bank of Japan keeps monetary easing despite global rate hikes</a>

Noriko Mizoguchi, a Japanese judoka who won silver at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, said a belief that corporal punishment makes children stronger was still common in Japan.

"One thing that has stuck to coaching in Japanese sports is that it doesn't use words, it uses violence," she said.

"There's a co-dependence, like with domestic violence, as if being hit is like being shown affection."

Problem parents

Coaches who use corporal punishment can be stripped of their licences but parents are harder to control.

Hisako Kurata, a representative of the Japan Judo Accident Victims Association, said most parents "don't think about the danger and just want their child to win".

"Parents think that if their child wins a title, they'll be happy, they think they're doing it for their child," said Kurata, whose 15-year-old son died in 2011 as a result of a head injury sustained at his high-school judo club.

"The parents end up having the same win-at-all-costs mentality as the judo club and they contribute to it."

Mizoguchi, who has coached in France, said judo was "not fun" for Japanese children and that the "macho culture" surrounding the sport has had its day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-airline-ditches-pro-russia-logo-letter-z-associated-with-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-488744">Japanese airline ditches letter 'Z' logo, which may seem pro-Russia</a>

"You have to treat each kid with care and have a long-term vision for the future, otherwise Japanese judo has reached its limit," she said.

"Old-school coaches are scared that if we do away with the kids' competitions, Japanese judo will lose its strength.

"I think it will actually become stronger."

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>.

Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse.

Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse. Underlining the scale of the problem, the All Japan Judo Federation cancelled a prestigious nationwide tournament for children as young as 10, warning they were being pushed too hard. A pressure group dedicated to those injured or killed while practising the martial art says that 121 judo-related deaths were reported in Japanese schools between 1983 and 2016. Also read | As Covid cases fall, Japanese school kids allowed to talk during lunch Japan regularly dominates the Olympics judo medal table but federation president Yasuhiro Yamashita told AFP that the values of the sport are being lost as parents and coaches chase short-term glory. "Judo is a sport that emphasises humanity," said Yamashita, who is also the president of the Japanese Olympic Committee and won gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. "If you see no worth in anything but winning, and the result is all that matters, that gets distorted." The number of people taking part in judo in Japan has plummeted by almost half since 2004 to about 120,000, according to the federation's figures. Children account for the steepest decline in numbers. Reports have emerged of primary school children being forced to lose weight -- sometimes up to six kilogrammes (13 pounds) -- so they can compete in a lighter division. Young children are taught the same dangerous moves as Olympic athletes and intense training regimes can leave them injured or burnt out. Parents and coaches have been known to berate referees during matches and corporal punishment still exists, despite reforms in a sport that has been plagued by abuse and bullying scandals over the years. Watch | Japan announces one-year long jail term for online insults The All Japan Judo Federation decided to take action in March by cancelling a national tournament for elite children aged between 10 and 12, planning to replace it with events such as lectures and practice sessions. The backlash was fierce with angry parents and coaches accusing the federation of dashing children's dreams and jeopardising Japan's status as the bastion of judo. Violence, not words Junior high school student Rion Fukuo, 13, a regional champion last year, told AFP at her judo club in the central Shizuoka region that she "feels sorry" for this year's primary school children who have no tournament to aim for. Kosuke Moroi, whose 12-year-old daughter attends the same club, said he was "disappointed" when he first heard the news but concluded it was "a good decision" after learning more about the reasons. Yamashita said scrapping the competition had put a spotlight on "a problem that involves Japanese society". "It's been two-and-a-half months since we decided to cancel the competition and people are still debating it on TV and in newspapers," he said, adding that most opinions "have been in favour". Judo and other martial arts were used for military training in Japan before World War II and servicemen would visit schools to give lessons. Martial arts were banned during the post-war US occupation but they later were recognised as sports, with judo making its Olympic debut at the 1964 Tokyo Games. Also read | Bank of Japan keeps monetary easing despite global rate hikes Noriko Mizoguchi, a Japanese judoka who won silver at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, said a belief that corporal punishment makes children stronger was still common in Japan. "One thing that has stuck to coaching in Japanese sports is that it doesn't use words, it uses violence," she said. "There's a co-dependence, like with domestic violence, as if being hit is like being shown affection." Problem parents Coaches who use corporal punishment can be stripped of their licences but parents are harder to control. Hisako Kurata, a representative of the Japan Judo Accident Victims Association, said most parents "don't think about the danger and just want their child to win". "Parents think that if their child wins a title, they'll be happy, they think they're doing it for their child," said Kurata, whose 15-year-old son died in 2011 as a result of a head injury sustained at his high-school judo club. "The parents end up having the same win-at-all-costs mentality as the judo club and they contribute to it." Mizoguchi, who has coached in France, said judo was "not fun" for Japanese children and that the "macho culture" surrounding the sport has had its day. Also read | Japanese airline ditches letter 'Z' logo, which may seem pro-Russia "You have to treat each kid with care and have a long-term vision for the future, otherwise Japanese judo has reached its limit," she said. "Old-school coaches are scared that if we do away with the kids' competitions, Japanese judo will lose its strength. "I think it will actually become stronger." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit

Dating applications and websites have become the norm for the current generations who are finding digital solutions in order to find love. However, one Japanese city has decided to go back to old-fashioned love letters in a somewhat unique matchmaking process. Miyazaki, a city in southern Japan, has seen a lot of success after the citizens went back to sending love letters to each other in order to boost their low birth rate. According to an AFP report, the new process has gained a lot of popularity among the youth in the city and more people are trying it out in search of love.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-indian-region-just-breached-66-year-old-record-for-24-hour-rainfall-489958" hreflang="en">WATCH | This Indian region just breached 66-year-old record for 24-hour rainfall</a>

“Compared to online dating, it takes longer, and inspires you to imagine the person you’re in communication with,” said Rie Miyata, head of the local consulting firm handling the scheme.

“It’s less about how good your penmanship is,” she told AFP, “And more the fact that you write every single character sincerely and with care, thinking deeply about the person you’re writing to.”

“That’s what makes letters so powerful,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mysterious-blue-light-in-new-zealand-night-sky-sparks-alien-and-ufo-rumours-489904" hreflang="en">Mysterious blue light in New Zealand night sky sparks alien and UFO rumours</a>

According to the data provided by the company, around 450 people have signed up for the initiative and around 70 per cent of them were between the ages of 20 and 30 years.

The people taking part in the project were only provided certain details like their age, but no picture was given. “Looks are often a decisive factor when searching for a partner, but in letters, you are judged by your personality,” Miyata said while explaining the process.

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>.

Dating applications and websites have become the norm for the current generations who are finding digital solutions in order to find love. However, one Japanese city has decided to go back to old-fashioned love letters in a somewhat unique matchmaking process.

Dating applications and websites have become the norm for the current generations who are finding digital solutions in order to find love. However, one Japanese city has decided to go back to old-fashioned love letters in a somewhat unique matchmaking process. Miyazaki, a city in southern Japan, has seen a lot of success after the citizens went back to sending love letters to each other in order to boost their low birth rate. According to an AFP report, the new process has gained a lot of popularity among the youth in the city and more people are trying it out in search of love. Also read | WATCH | This Indian region just breached 66-year-old record for 24-hour rainfall “Compared to online dating, it takes longer, and inspires you to imagine the person you’re in communication with,” said Rie Miyata, head of the local consulting firm handling the scheme. “It’s less about how good your penmanship is,” she told AFP, “And more the fact that you write every single character sincerely and with care, thinking deeply about the person you’re writing to.” “That’s what makes letters so powerful,” she said. Also read | Mysterious blue light in New Zealand night sky sparks alien and UFO rumours According to the data provided by the company, around 450 people have signed up for the initiative and around 70 per cent of them were between the ages of 20 and 30 years. The people taking part in the project were only provided certain details like their age, but no picture was given. “Looks are often a decisive factor when searching for a partner, but in letters, you are judged by your personality,” Miyata said while explaining the process. 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.

Japanese city tries out old-fashioned method for singles to find love

In a setback for activists after a landmark verdict last year found the opposite, a Japanese court ruled on Monday that the country's failure to recognise same-sex marriage is constitutional.

The case had been filed in the Osaka district court by three same-sex couples and demanded 1 million yen ($7,400) in damages.

Rejecting their claim that being unable to marry was unconstitutional, the court ruling said that "From the perspective of individual dignity, it can be said that it is necessary to realise the benefits of same-sex couples being publicly recognised through official recognition."

In March 2021, a Sapporo court decided in favour of a claim that the government's failure to allow same-sex marriage violated the constitution's provision guaranteeing equality under the law.

<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-landmark-judgement-favours-lgbtq-community-371129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ever since that ruling Japanese activists were hopeful of raising pressure on the government to address the issue but they have been dashed by the current verdict.

According to the Japanese constitution, marriage is defined on the basis of "the mutual consent of both sexes".

Only Taiwan has legalised same-sex marriage in Asia even though Japanese law is considered relatively liberal in some areas by the continent's standard. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-at-turning-point-for-lgbtq-rights-campaigners-390341">Also read |&nbsp;Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners</a>

Gay couples in Japan do not have full legal rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples such as legally marrying each other, inheriting each other's assets, or sharing parental rights over each other's children.

After the Tokyo prefectural government passed a bill to recognise same-sex partnership agreements, partnership certificates issued by some municipalities helped same-sex couples to rent a place together and have hospital visitation rights.

Ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has disclosed no plans to review the matter or propose legislation even though Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has said the issue needs to be carefully considered.

(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" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

In a setback for activists after a landmark verdict last year found the opposite, a Japanese court ruled on Monday that the country's failure to recognise same-sex marriage is constitutional.

In a setback for activists after a landmark verdict last year found the opposite, a Japanese court ruled on Monday that the country's failure to recognise same-sex marriage is constitutional. The case had been filed in the Osaka district court by three same-sex couples and demanded 1 million yen ($7,400) in damages. Rejecting their claim that being unable to marry was unconstitutional, the court ruling said that "From the perspective of individual dignity, it can be said that it is necessary to realise the benefits of same-sex couples being publicly recognised through official recognition." In March 2021, a Sapporo court decided in favour of a claim that the government's failure to allow same-sex marriage violated the constitution's provision guaranteeing equality under the law. × Ever since that ruling Japanese activists were hopeful of raising pressure on the government to address the issue but they have been dashed by the current verdict. According to the Japanese constitution, marriage is defined on the basis of "the mutual consent of both sexes". Only Taiwan has legalised same-sex marriage in Asia even though Japanese law is considered relatively liberal in some areas by the continent's standard. Also read | Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners Gay couples in Japan do not have full legal rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples such as legally marrying each other, inheriting each other's assets, or sharing parental rights over each other's children. After the Tokyo prefectural government passed a bill to recognise same-sex partnership agreements, partnership certificates issued by some municipalities helped same-sex couples to rent a place together and have hospital visitation rights. Ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has disclosed no plans to review the matter or propose legislation even though Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has said the issue needs to be carefully considered. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year. The usual Asian heavyweights – Saudi Arabia, Iran, Australia, South Korea and Japan – have all booked their spot in the tournament while hosts Qatar will be making their debut. The six teams will also take strength from the fact that the last time Asia hosted the tournament back in 2022, South Korea reached the semi-finals while Japan made it to the Round of 16. With a few months to go ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022, here’s a look at the six AFC teams which will be taking part in the competition -

Australia

The Socceroos had the longest road to the FIFA World Cup 2022 as they defeated Peru on penalties in the inter-confederation play off. The campaign started on a superb note as they topped their first-round group with absolute ease. However, two losses against Japan and another one against Saudi Arabia meant that they had to face United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fourth-round play-off. It was a hard-fought encounter but Australia were able to clinch the win by a late goal from Ajdin Hrustic. With 7 goals, Jamie Maclaren was the top scorer for them in the qualification process and although substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star against Peru, Matt Ryan will play a major role in their campaign in Qatar. Things will get tougher for the Socceroos as they were placed in Group D where they will face dark horses Denmark, Tunisia and defending champions France.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-hit-by-a-scandal-why-has-vince-mcmahon-stepped-down-as-chairman-and-ceo-489435" hreflang="en">WWE hit by a scandal! Why has Vince McMahon stepped down as chairman and CEO?</a>

Japan

Japan finished their first-round qualifying journey with 46 goals from just eight matches and in the second round, it was once again their attackers who guaranteed their seven consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance. The Blue Samurais did slump to defeats against Oman and Saudi Arabia but with the duo of Takumi Minamino and Yuya Osako scoring 10 goals each over the two rounds, it was easy sailing for Hajime Moriyasu’s side. In Qatar, they will be placed in the so-called ‘Group of Death’ along with the two European heavyweights – Germany and Spain – along with Costa Rica.

<img alt="Japanese football team" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="640c1cee-12b1-4d22-acee-99887a5c3420" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/11_10.jpg" />

Iran

Under the management of Dragan Skocic, Iran has the most impressive team in the AFC qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2022. With most goals scored and the most points for any nation, Iran cruised past their opponents with their only loss coming against South Korea. Bayer Leverkusen striker Sardar Azmoun finished the campaign with 10 goals while his strike partner Mehdi Taremi provided able support. This will be Iran’s sixth appearance in the World Cup and with England, Wales and the United States in their group, it will be a tough job for them to reach the playoffs.

South Korea

Son Heung-min and Co had a relatively easy journey to the FIFA World Cup 2022 with five wins out of the six games in the first round and just loss in the second round. The Tottenham superstar led his team by example as he was the top-scorer with six goals but it will be tough for them to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022 Round of 16 from a group featuring Portugal, Uruguay and Ghana.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-lgbtq-couples-in-sports-who-inspire-us-to-come-out-of-the-closet-489114" hreflang="en">Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet</a>

Saudi Arabia

Another team which cruised through the qualifying process with just one loss in two rounds. Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri top-scored with seven goals and with Argentina, Mexico and Poland in their FIFA World Cup 2022 group, there is an outside chance for the Asian giants to reach the next stage. This will be the sixth appearance for the top Asian side in the FIFA World Cup.

Qatar

This will be the debut appearance for Qatar in the FIFA World Cup as they will be hosting the footballing extravaganza. Qatar took part in the qualification Round 1 in order to secure their place in the Asian Cup 2023 and ended up toping their group with seven victories and one draw. Over the last couple of years, they have taken part in invitational competitions, but it will be a tough road for them in the World Cup as they are placed in Group A along with Ecuador, Senegal and Netherlands.

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year.

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year. The usual Asian heavyweights – Saudi Arabia, Iran, Australia, South Korea and Japan – have all booked their spot in the tournament while hosts Qatar will be making their debut. The six teams will also take strength from the fact that the last time Asia hosted the tournament back in 2022, South Korea reached the semi-finals while Japan made it to the Round of 16. With a few months to go ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022, here’s a look at the six AFC teams which will be taking part in the competition - Australia The Socceroos had the longest road to the FIFA World Cup 2022 as they defeated Peru on penalties in the inter-confederation play off. The campaign started on a superb note as they topped their first-round group with absolute ease. However, two losses against Japan and another one against Saudi Arabia meant that they had to face United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fourth-round play-off. It was a hard-fought encounter but Australia were able to clinch the win by a late goal from Ajdin Hrustic. With 7 goals, Jamie Maclaren was the top scorer for them in the qualification process and although substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star against Peru, Matt Ryan will play a major role in their campaign in Qatar. Things will get tougher for the Socceroos as they were placed in Group D where they will face dark horses Denmark, Tunisia and defending champions France. Also read | WWE hit by a scandal! Why has Vince McMahon stepped down as chairman and CEO? Japan Japan finished their first-round qualifying journey with 46 goals from just eight matches and in the second round, it was once again their attackers who guaranteed their seven consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance. The Blue Samurais did slump to defeats against Oman and Saudi Arabia but with the duo of Takumi Minamino and Yuya Osako scoring 10 goals each over the two rounds, it was easy sailing for Hajime Moriyasu’s side. In Qatar, they will be placed in the so-called ‘Group of Death’ along with the two European heavyweights – Germany and Spain – along with Costa Rica. Iran Under the management of Dragan Skocic, Iran has the most impressive team in the AFC qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2022. With most goals scored and the most points for any nation, Iran cruised past their opponents with their only loss coming against South Korea. Bayer Leverkusen striker Sardar Azmoun finished the campaign with 10 goals while his strike partner Mehdi Taremi provided able support. This will be Iran’s sixth appearance in the World Cup and with England, Wales and the United States in their group, it will be a tough job for them to reach the playoffs. South Korea Son Heung-min and Co had a relatively easy journey to the FIFA World Cup 2022 with five wins out of the six games in the first round and just loss in the second round. The Tottenham superstar led his team by example as he was the top-scorer with six goals but it will be tough for them to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022 Round of 16 from a group featuring Portugal, Uruguay and Ghana. Also read | Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet Saudi Arabia Another team which cruised through the qualifying process with just one loss in two rounds. Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri top-scored with seven goals and with Argentina, Mexico and Poland in their FIFA World Cup 2022 group, there is an outside chance for the Asian giants to reach the next stage. This will be the sixth appearance for the top Asian side in the FIFA World Cup. Qatar This will be the debut appearance for Qatar in the FIFA World Cup as they will be hosting the footballing extravaganza. Qatar took part in the qualification Round 1 in order to secure their place in the Asian Cup 2023 and ended up toping their group with seven victories and one draw. Over the last couple of years, they have taken part in invitational competitions, but it will be a tough road for them in the World Cup as they are placed in Group A along with Ecuador, Senegal and Netherlands.

FIFA World Cup 2022: A look at the Asian contingent as record six teams qualify

With COVID cases showing downward trend, school kids in Japan have been given freedom to talk to their classmates during lunch. The relaxations follow two years of near-monastic silence imposed upon children during lunchtime in order to prevent spread of coronavirus.

The children were asked to observe mokushoku, or silent eating.

But schools are now abandoning the code of silence as COVID cases fall and amid concern that imposition of silence on young children may hamper their social and emotional growth.

Board of education in Fukuoka in Japan has said that it was lifeting restrictions on conversations during lunch.

Other prefectures have also started doing the same. Miyazaki has ended such a lunchtime regime earlier in the month. Schools in Chiba, near Tokyo, have allowed children to face each other during lunchtime and eat without speaking.

The measures and relaxation of restrictions have elicited reactions from parents

“My child is used to eating silently, and I’m sure she doesn’t feel lonely as she is with her family when she gets home,” one mother said. She was quoted by The Guardian.

“I’m concerned about the possibility of infection, so I hope they will continue to eat without talking.”

Some of the teachers have praised the move.

Silent eating has gone on for a long time now,” Kenji Tanaka, a primary school principal, told the Mainichi Shimbun. “I hope happy school lunchtimes will return soon.”

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" 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;

With COVID cases showing downward trend, school kids in Japan have been given freedom to talk to their classmates during lunch. The relaxations follow two years of near-monastic silence imposed upon children during lunchtime in order to prevent spread of coronavirus.

With COVID cases showing downward trend, school kids in Japan have been given freedom to talk to their classmates during lunch. The relaxations follow two years of near-monastic silence imposed upon children during lunchtime in order to prevent spread of coronavirus. The children were asked to observe mokushoku, or silent eating. But schools are now abandoning the code of silence as COVID cases fall and amid concern that imposition of silence on young children may hamper their social and emotional growth. Board of education in Fukuoka in Japan has said that it was lifeting restrictions on conversations during lunch. Other prefectures have also started doing the same. Miyazaki has ended such a lunchtime regime earlier in the month. Schools in Chiba, near Tokyo, have allowed children to face each other during lunchtime and eat without speaking. The measures and relaxation of restrictions have elicited reactions from parents “My child is used to eating silently, and I’m sure she doesn’t feel lonely as she is with her family when she gets home,” one mother said. She was quoted by The Guardian. “I’m concerned about the possibility of infection, so I hope they will continue to eat without talking.” Some of the teachers have praised the move. Silent eating has gone on for a long time now,” Kenji Tanaka, a primary school principal, told the Mainichi Shimbun. “I hope happy school lunchtimes will return soon.” 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 ×

As Covid cases fall, Japanese school kids allowed to talk during lunch

Japan has announced a one-year jail term and a $2,200 fine for online hate. In 2020, Japanese TV star died by suicide after cyber hate. This new law follows celebrity death. Watch this report!

Japan announces one-year long jail term for online insults

Japan has announced a one-year jail term and a $2,200 fine for online insults. The decision follows a celebrity suicide in 2020 linked to online hate messages. Will the new law cut down online insults? How can Big Tech contribute? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Japan announces one-year jail term for online insults

Japan's Zipair budget airline has been forced to change its logo with the letter 'Z', which is unfortunately now being linked with Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The symbol shot to controversy worldwide after being spotted on Russian tanks and military uniforms in Ukraine.

It has since appeared on cars and clothing in Russia and online and has become a sign of support for the invasion, a patriotic trend the Kremlin is keen to encourage.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Japanese airline Zipair Tokyo has removed the "Z" logo from the fuselage of its aircraft and completely abandoned its use. 
● Social media users complained about the letter Z on the planes, saying it could be “misunderstood” in the context of the invasion of Ukraine: RBK <a href="https://t.co/POiDs2JkBB">pic.twitter.com/POiDs2JkBB</a>
— Jason Corcoran (@jason_corcoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/jason_corcoran/status/1537350313606250496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Zipair president Shingo Nishida said on Wednesday that the company is ditching the logo to avoid anyone mistakenly thinking his business is in favour of the bloody conflict.

"Some people might feel that way when they see it without any explanation," he told reporters, according to Kyodo News.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-and-egypt-sign-mou-with-eu-to-boost-gas-exports-to-europe-488729">&nbsp;Israel and Egypt sign MoU with EU to boost gas exports to Europe</a>

Zipair's new logo -- a green, black and white geometric design -- will from Saturday replace the black 'Z' currently on the tail fin of its planes, the reports said.

Zipair, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, links Narita International Airport near Tokyo with Bangkok, Seoul, Honolulu, Singapore and Los Angeles. The airline was launched in 2020.

(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>

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's Zipair budget airline has been forced to change its logo with the letter 'Z', which is unfortunately now being linked with Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The symbol shot to controversy worldwide after being spotted on Russian tanks and military uniforms in Ukraine.

Japan's Zipair budget airline has been forced to change its logo with the letter 'Z', which is unfortunately now being linked with Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The symbol shot to controversy worldwide after being spotted on Russian tanks and military uniforms in Ukraine. It has since appeared on cars and clothing in Russia and online and has become a sign of support for the invasion, a patriotic trend the Kremlin is keen to encourage. Japanese airline Zipair Tokyo has removed the "Z" logo from the fuselage of its aircraft and completely abandoned its use. ● Social media users complained about the letter Z on the planes, saying it could be “misunderstood” in the context of the invasion of Ukraine: RBK pic.twitter.com/POiDs2JkBB — Jason Corcoran (@jason_corcoran) June 16, 2022 × Zipair president Shingo Nishida said on Wednesday that the company is ditching the logo to avoid anyone mistakenly thinking his business is in favour of the bloody conflict. "Some people might feel that way when they see it without any explanation," he told reporters, according to Kyodo News. Also Read: Israel and Egypt sign MoU with EU to boost gas exports to Europe Zipair's new logo -- a green, black and white geometric design -- will from Saturday replace the black 'Z' currently on the tail fin of its planes, the reports said. Zipair, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, links Narita International Airport near Tokyo with Bangkok, Seoul, Honolulu, Singapore and Los Angeles. The airline was launched in 2020. (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.

Japanese airline ditches letter 'Z' logo, which may seem pro-Russia

Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking". The law would help to curb exploitation in multi-billion-dollar industry. The law is aimed at preventing talent scouts offering work as a model or idol performer before pushing recruits into sex and nudity.

Tokyo-based lawyer Kazuko Ito told AFP that instances when people are forced to appear in porn movies, can cause "serious trauma".

The law allows those who appear in porn&nbsp;movies to cancel their contracts within a year of the work's release for any reason and without paying penalty fees.

The law says that when this happens, the porn video must be deleted and recalled. This provision is aimed at preventing producers from blackmailing and bullying people into act in porn films which can stay online for years.

"Once the films are distributed they stay online essentially forever, to be consumed by an unspecified number of people, effectively becoming 'digital tattoos'," Ito told AFP.

The "groundbreaking" new law "aligns very closely to the interests of the victims", she added.

Initially, it will allow contracts to be cancelled up to two years after a film is released, but that period is expected to be later revised to a standard 12 months.

The law also makes it compulsory for porn makers to wait for at least a month to start the shoot after signing of the contract. It also makes mandatory a period of four months between completion of shooting and release of the work.

Lawmakers began lobbying for the new rules when Japan lowered its age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in April.

That raised concerns that recruiters could target 18 and 19 year olds, who previously had the right to withdraw from contracts signed without a guardian's permission.

(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" 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;

Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking".

Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking". The law would help to curb exploitation in multi-billion-dollar industry. The law is aimed at preventing talent scouts offering work as a model or idol performer before pushing recruits into sex and nudity. Tokyo-based lawyer Kazuko Ito told AFP that instances when people are forced to appear in porn movies, can cause "serious trauma". The law allows those who appear in porn movies to cancel their contracts within a year of the work's release for any reason and without paying penalty fees. The law says that when this happens, the porn video must be deleted and recalled. This provision is aimed at preventing producers from blackmailing and bullying people into act in porn films which can stay online for years. "Once the films are distributed they stay online essentially forever, to be consumed by an unspecified number of people, effectively becoming 'digital tattoos'," Ito told AFP. The "groundbreaking" new law "aligns very closely to the interests of the victims", she added. Initially, it will allow contracts to be cancelled up to two years after a film is released, but that period is expected to be later revised to a standard 12 months. The law also makes it compulsory for porn makers to wait for at least a month to start the shoot after signing of the contract. It also makes mandatory a period of four months between completion of shooting and release of the work. Lawmakers began lobbying for the new rules when Japan lowered its age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in April. That raised concerns that recruiters could target 18 and 19 year olds, who previously had the right to withdraw from contracts signed without a guardian's permission. (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 passes law to protect people forced into porn industry

According to a government survey, one out of four singles in their 30s in Japan do not want to get married due to financial burden, loss of freedom and housework-related issues.

The survey found marriages in Japan last year had dropped to 514,000 which was the lowest since the end of World War-II in the 1940s.

Japan had a baby boom after World War-II although it lasted&nbsp;for just two years from 1947 to 1949, a second baby boom lasted from 1971 to 1974, however, Japan's population has been diminishing alarmingly. A report said in 2019, the country's population diminished by 276,000 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-sees-record-breaking-fall-in-birth-rate-was-elon-musk-right-will-the-country-cease-to-exist-484729">Also Read:&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-sees-record-breaking-fall-in-birth-rate-was-elon-musk-right-will-the-country-cease-to-exist-484729" hreflang="en">Japan sees record-breaking fall in birth rate. Was Elon Musk right, will the country 'cease to exist'?</a>

The government conducted the study after sampling responses from 20,000 people who were in their 20s and 60s. The survey showed that 54 per cent of men and 62 per cent of women in their 30s were married. The findings are part of the government's white paper on gender equality.

The survey found 26 per cent men and 25 per cent of women want to remain single and 46&nbsp;per cent of both men and women in their 30s wanted to get married.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan innovate robot 'Bex' to help its ageing population

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-innovate-robot-bex-to-help-its-ageing-population-488180/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

More women than men said they did not want to engage in housework, childcare as the primary reason for not tieing the knot&nbsp;even as both sexes said did not want to give their freedom.

Men said lack of financial ability and job insecurity was the primary reason for not getting married.

Japan has been battling old age population for several years. According to a UN report, Japan is the most aged country in the world and will continue to hold the lead till&nbsp;2050.

A European Parliament report had earlier indicated that since 2011&nbsp;the Japanese population has also been shrinking with the country home to a record 80,000 centenarians.

(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>

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>.

According to a government survey, one out of four singles in their 30s in Japan do not want to get married due to financial burden, loss of freedom and housework-related issues.

According to a government survey, one out of four singles in their 30s in Japan do not want to get married due to financial burden, loss of freedom and housework-related issues. The survey found marriages in Japan last year had dropped to 514,000 which was the lowest since the end of World War-II in the 1940s. Japan had a baby boom after World War-II although it lasted for just two years from 1947 to 1949, a second baby boom lasted from 1971 to 1974, however, Japan's population has been diminishing alarmingly. A report said in 2019, the country's population diminished by 276,000 people. Also Read: Japan sees record-breaking fall in birth rate. Was Elon Musk right, will the country 'cease to exist'? The government conducted the study after sampling responses from 20,000 people who were in their 20s and 60s. The survey showed that 54 per cent of men and 62 per cent of women in their 30s were married. The findings are part of the government's white paper on gender equality. The survey found 26 per cent men and 25 per cent of women want to remain single and 46 per cent of both men and women in their 30s wanted to get married. Watch: Japan innovate robot 'Bex' to help its ageing population More women than men said they did not want to engage in housework, childcare as the primary reason for not tieing the knot even as both sexes said did not want to give their freedom. Men said lack of financial ability and job insecurity was the primary reason for not getting married. Japan has been battling old age population for several years. According to a UN report, Japan is the most aged country in the world and will continue to hold the lead till 2050. A European Parliament report had earlier indicated that since 2011 the Japanese population has also been shrinking with the country home to a record 80,000 centenarians. (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.

Study reveals why Japanese men & women in their 30s do not want to get married

Online bullying has been a problem plaguing the world in the time of social media and Japan has taken strong steps to deal with the problem. The country’s parliament passed a legislation on Monday which made “online insults” punishable by fine and even imprisonment. The decision was taken by the authorities to curb online bullying after the suicide of a reality television star who faced online abuse. According to the new legislation, people found guilty of online bullying or insults can be jailed for up to one year, or fined 300,000 yen (about $2,200), according to Reuters. Earlier, the punishment was imprisonment for 30 days and a fine of 10,000 yen ($75). But, amid the rising concerns among the public, stricter steps were taken by the Japanese government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-hold-meeting-over-declaring-monkeypox-an-international-health-emergency-488191" hreflang="en">WHO to hold meeting over declaring monkeypox an international health emergency</a>

However, the legislation has also created a lot of uproar among the citizens as a lot of them saw it as an attack on free speech and criticism of the government. The main concern was the process by which “online insults” will be determined by the authorities and how it can be easily misused.

"There needs to be a guideline that makes a distinction on what qualifies as an insult. For example, at the moment, even if someone calls the leader of Japan an idiot, then maybe under the revised law that could be classed as an insult," Seiho Cho, a Japan-based criminal lawyer, told CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/early-signs-of-virus-surge-in-england-and-northern-ireland-due-to-omicron-variants-uk-ons-data-488222">Early signs of virus surge in England due to Omicron variants: UK ONS data</a>

The authorities also said that the law will be re-examined every three years by a special council.

(With inputs from agencies)

Online bullying has been a problem plaguing the world in the time of social media and Japan has taken strong steps to deal with the problem. The country’s parliament passed a legislation on Monday which made “online insults” punishable by fine and even imprisonment.

Online bullying has been a problem plaguing the world in the time of social media and Japan has taken strong steps to deal with the problem. The country’s parliament passed a legislation on Monday which made “online insults” punishable by fine and even imprisonment. The decision was taken by the authorities to curb online bullying after the suicide of a reality television star who faced online abuse. According to the new legislation, people found guilty of online bullying or insults can be jailed for up to one year, or fined 300,000 yen (about $2,200), according to Reuters. Earlier, the punishment was imprisonment for 30 days and a fine of 10,000 yen ($75). But, amid the rising concerns among the public, stricter steps were taken by the Japanese government. Also read | WHO to hold meeting over declaring monkeypox an international health emergency However, the legislation has also created a lot of uproar among the citizens as a lot of them saw it as an attack on free speech and criticism of the government. The main concern was the process by which “online insults” will be determined by the authorities and how it can be easily misused. "There needs to be a guideline that makes a distinction on what qualifies as an insult. For example, at the moment, even if someone calls the leader of Japan an idiot, then maybe under the revised law that could be classed as an insult," Seiho Cho, a Japan-based criminal lawyer, told CNN. Also read | Early signs of virus surge in England due to Omicron variants: UK ONS data The authorities also said that the law will be re-examined every three years by a special council. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's new legislation makes 'online insults' punishable by one year in prison

Engineers from Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Japan demonstrate their latest creation: a four-legged rideable robot modeled after an Ibex, a wild goat found in Europe, Asia, and northeastern Africa.

Japan innovate robot 'Bex' to help its ageing population

The yen plunged to its lowest level against the dollar since 1998 on Monday as sky-high US inflation fuels a widening monetary policy gap between Japan and the world's largest economy.

Japan's currency has been weakening for months, accelerated by the US Federal Reserve's aggressive monetary tightening to tackle soaring inflation caused by the war in Ukraine and other factors.

But unlike the Fed, the Bank of Japan has said it will stick with its long-standing monetary easing programme which it hopes will lead to stable growth.

The increasingly polar policies have strengthened the greenback, and on Monday one dollar bought 135.19 yen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-japan-prefers-higher-inflation-481910">Why Japan prefers higher inflation</a>

It's a level not seen since October 1998 during the Asian currency crisis, and marks a dramatic drop from January rates of around 115 yen per dollar.

"The&nbsp;ongoing backdrop to the yen's fall is the growing gap between long-term interest rates in Japan and the United States," Takahide Kinouchi, executive economist at Nomura Research Institute, said in a recent commentary.

And as higher oil prices fuel US inflation, "expectations are growing stronger that aggressive US monetary tightening will continue for the time being, causing US yields to rise further."

US consumer prices for May hit a new four-decade high, rising 8.6 per cent and topping what economists thought was the peak in March.

Benefits for tourism, exporters

In Japan however, inflation has only just hit the central bank's long-term target of two percent.

And while the figure represents a seven-year high, the BoJ sees current inflationary pressures as temporary, and believes its monetary policy is necessary to produce more long-lasting growth.

As the war in Ukraine pressures global fuel and food prices, household brands from Uniqlo to 7-Eleven have anounced price hikes, with budget sushi chain Sushiro causing shock when it said it would no longer offer plates for 100 yen ($0.75).

But BoJ governor Haruhiko Kuroda said last week that "monetary tightening is not at all a suitable measure" for Japan, whose economy is still recovering from the pandemic, according to Kyodo News.

Watch |&nbsp;Asia stocks hit 3-week top, dollar near 5 weeks low

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asia-stocks-hit-3-week-top-dollar-near-5-weeks-low-483408/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He also pointed to the benefits of a weaker yen for&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;exporters, whose overseas profits are inflated when they are repatriated and have seen their stock prices rise in recent months.

The weaker yen could also be a boon for the tourism sector, with Japan cautiously reopening to foreign visitors now allowed in on group tours.

"The weak yen helps to support Japan's export sector directly, and a weaker exchange rate also contributes to looser monetary conditions domestically," said Alvin Tan, head of Asia forex strategy at RBC Capital Markets in Singapore.

"These will help drive the economic recovery further," he told AFP.

Although "higher import prices will negatively affect consumers" and the weaker yen will contribute to inflation, particularly given Japan's reliance on energy imports, this could also be "seen as a positive", he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dollar-gains-as-us-stocks-fall-ecb-decision-on-tap-486375">Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap</a>

"It could help to deepen more persistent inflation expectations in a country that has suffered under deflation for so many years."

The yen's trajectory may depend on how the US Fed acts in its September meeting, with worse-than-expected inflation figures for May raising expectations of further rate hikes.

But "there is still a lot of time left until then," said Kinouchi, and other factors may also be at play including energy prices rising further after a European Union ban on most Russian oil imports.

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>.

The yen plunged to its lowest level against the dollar since 1998 on Monday as sky-high US inflation fuels a widening monetary policy gap between Japan and the world's largest economy.

The yen plunged to its lowest level against the dollar since 1998 on Monday as sky-high US inflation fuels a widening monetary policy gap between Japan and the world's largest economy. Japan's currency has been weakening for months, accelerated by the US Federal Reserve's aggressive monetary tightening to tackle soaring inflation caused by the war in Ukraine and other factors. But unlike the Fed, the Bank of Japan has said it will stick with its long-standing monetary easing programme which it hopes will lead to stable growth. The increasingly polar policies have strengthened the greenback, and on Monday one dollar bought 135.19 yen. Also read | Why Japan prefers higher inflation It's a level not seen since October 1998 during the Asian currency crisis, and marks a dramatic drop from January rates of around 115 yen per dollar. "The ongoing backdrop to the yen's fall is the growing gap between long-term interest rates in Japan and the United States," Takahide Kinouchi, executive economist at Nomura Research Institute, said in a recent commentary. And as higher oil prices fuel US inflation, "expectations are growing stronger that aggressive US monetary tightening will continue for the time being, causing US yields to rise further." US consumer prices for May hit a new four-decade high, rising 8.6 per cent and topping what economists thought was the peak in March. Benefits for tourism, exporters In Japan however, inflation has only just hit the central bank's long-term target of two percent. And while the figure represents a seven-year high, the BoJ sees current inflationary pressures as temporary, and believes its monetary policy is necessary to produce more long-lasting growth. As the war in Ukraine pressures global fuel and food prices, household brands from Uniqlo to 7-Eleven have anounced price hikes, with budget sushi chain Sushiro causing shock when it said it would no longer offer plates for 100 yen ($0.75). But BoJ governor Haruhiko Kuroda said last week that "monetary tightening is not at all a suitable measure" for Japan, whose economy is still recovering from the pandemic, according to Kyodo News. Watch | Asia stocks hit 3-week top, dollar near 5 weeks low He also pointed to the benefits of a weaker yen for Japanese exporters, whose overseas profits are inflated when they are repatriated and have seen their stock prices rise in recent months. The weaker yen could also be a boon for the tourism sector, with Japan cautiously reopening to foreign visitors now allowed in on group tours. "The weak yen helps to support Japan's export sector directly, and a weaker exchange rate also contributes to looser monetary conditions domestically," said Alvin Tan, head of Asia forex strategy at RBC Capital Markets in Singapore. "These will help drive the economic recovery further," he told AFP. Although "higher import prices will negatively affect consumers" and the weaker yen will contribute to inflation, particularly given Japan's reliance on energy imports, this could also be "seen as a positive", he said. Also read | Dollar gains as US stocks fall, ECB decision on tap "It could help to deepen more persistent inflation expectations in a country that has suffered under deflation for so many years." The yen's trajectory may depend on how the US Fed acts in its September meeting, with worse-than-expected inflation figures for May raising expectations of further rate hikes. But "there is still a lot of time left until then," said Kinouchi, and other factors may also be at play including energy prices rising further after a European Union ban on most Russian oil imports. 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.

Yen slides to 24-year low against dollar

Palaeontologists have unearthed a new genus of therizinosaurid dinosaur that lived during the Cretaceous period in Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan.

Dubbed Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus, this new species of dinosaur roamed around the shores of Asia between 66 million and 145 million years ago.

The most remarkable aspect of this species is that it had sword-like claws, like Edward Scissorhands, which were used not for eviscerating animal prey&nbsp;but rather to slash vegetation as it was a herbivore species, the study said.

This dinosaur belonged to a group known as therizinosaurs — bipedal and primarily herbivorous three-toed dinosaurs that lived during the Cretaceous period.

“[This dinosaur] used its claws as foraging tools, rather than tools of aggression, to draw shrubs and trees closer to its mouth to eat," study co-author Anthony Fiorillo, a research professor in the Roy M. Huffington Department of Earth Sciences at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, told Live Science.

"We believe it died on land and was washed out to sea."

The fossil was found by researchers from Japan and the United States in 2008. They had described it as the youngest therizinosaur fossil ever found in the Asian country. It also happens to be the first to be found in Asia in marine sediments.&nbsp;

The fossil was encased in a concretion — a hardened mineral deposit — and at the time of its discovery,

The hook-shaped fossil, which includes a partial vertebra and a partial wrist and forefoot, is kept in the collections at the Nakagawa Museum of Natural History in Hokkaido, Japan.

Initially, it was believed to belong to a therizinosaur, but due to a lack of comparative data at the time, the original researchers were unable to draw any definitive conclusions, representatives of Hokkaido University said in a statement.

However, new data from many other fossils that were discovered since that time have helped with classifying the fossil based on the shape of the forefoot claw. This prompted a new team of palaeontologists to revisit the specimen to get some definitive answers.&nbsp;

Based on their analysis, the authors of the new study concluded that the fossil, which measures just under 4 inches (10 centimetres) in length, belonged to a therizinosaur that lived approximately 80 million to 82 million years ago, the statement said.

The findings were published online on May 3 in the journal&nbsp;Scientific Reports.

(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>

Palaeontologists have unearthed a new genus of therizinosaurid dinosaur that lived during the Cretaceous period in Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan. Dubbed Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus, this new species of dinosaur roamed around the shores of Asia between 66 million and 145 million years ago.

Palaeontologists have unearthed a new genus of therizinosaurid dinosaur that lived during the Cretaceous period in Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan. Dubbed Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus, this new species of dinosaur roamed around the shores of Asia between 66 million and 145 million years ago. The most remarkable aspect of this species is that it had sword-like claws, like Edward Scissorhands, which were used not for eviscerating animal prey but rather to slash vegetation as it was a herbivore species, the study said. This dinosaur belonged to a group known as therizinosaurs — bipedal and primarily herbivorous three-toed dinosaurs that lived during the Cretaceous period. “[This dinosaur] used its claws as foraging tools, rather than tools of aggression, to draw shrubs and trees closer to its mouth to eat," study co-author Anthony Fiorillo, a research professor in the Roy M. Huffington Department of Earth Sciences at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, told Live Science. "We believe it died on land and was washed out to sea." The fossil was found by researchers from Japan and the United States in 2008. They had described it as the youngest therizinosaur fossil ever found in the Asian country. It also happens to be the first to be found in Asia in marine sediments. The fossil was encased in a concretion — a hardened mineral deposit — and at the time of its discovery, The hook-shaped fossil, which includes a partial vertebra and a partial wrist and forefoot, is kept in the collections at the Nakagawa Museum of Natural History in Hokkaido, Japan. Initially, it was believed to belong to a therizinosaur, but due to a lack of comparative data at the time, the original researchers were unable to draw any definitive conclusions, representatives of Hokkaido University said in a statement. However, new data from many other fossils that were discovered since that time have helped with classifying the fossil based on the shape of the forefoot claw. This prompted a new team of palaeontologists to revisit the specimen to get some definitive answers. Based on their analysis, the authors of the new study concluded that the fossil, which measures just under 4 inches (10 centimetres) in length, belonged to a therizinosaur that lived approximately 80 million to 82 million years ago, the statement said. The findings were published online on May 3 in the journal Scientific Reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New dinosaur species found in Japan; had massive sword-like claws

Tensions are brewing in the Korean peninsula. South Korea's minister spoke at an Asian security meeting and warned against the North Korea Nuclear program.

Tensions simmer in Korean peninsula: South Korea warns against North Korea Nuclear program

japan

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