Princess Aiko, the only child of&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an&nbsp;adult&nbsp;member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;is&nbsp;still&nbsp;far&nbsp;in the future.

Japan's imperial family became the centre of global attention last year when Aiko's 30-year-old cousin Mako defied widespread opposition to marry her college sweetheart after&nbsp;being&nbsp;diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the stresses of her tumultuous engagement.

Mako's&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;to Kei Komuro, a commoner who works in a law&nbsp;office in New York, meant giving up her title and leaving the&nbsp;royal&nbsp;family according to imperial family rules - a situation that Aiko, who just turned 20 and became a full-fledged&nbsp;adult&nbsp;royal&nbsp;in December, will face if there is no change.

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Women cannot inherit the&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;throne and&nbsp;royal&nbsp;life is circumscribed. Aiko's mother, Empress Masako, gave up a life as a diplomat and has struggled for years with what the palace terms an "adjustment disorder."

In her debut news conference, Aiko, who spoke carefully and occasionally smiled shyly, said she was mainly focusing on her studies for now and that the reality of&nbsp;being&nbsp;an&nbsp;adult&nbsp;royal&nbsp;was just sinking in.

"For the first time I've taken part in a number of palace rituals, and I was rather tense. It seemed strange that I was&nbsp;being&nbsp;part of things that only my parents had done up to now."

Asked about her future plans and views on&nbsp;marriage, Aiko said she had just finished her second year at university, studying&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;literature, and&nbsp;still&nbsp;has no clear picture of her future after that.

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"For me,&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;still&nbsp;seems&nbsp;far&nbsp;in the future and I haven't really thought of it. I have no particular thought of my ideal partner, but&nbsp;being&nbsp;with somebody and we can make each other smile seems perfect."

Aiko, who wore a pastel yellow suit and pearl necklace, avoided comment about her cousin's&nbsp;marriage.

Instead, she described&nbsp;being&nbsp;raised "peacefully" and gave unusual glimpses of palace life, including jogging around the grounds with her father and a time she and her parents tried to sit together on a surfboard at the beach and ended up tumbling into the water.

"I've been mostly raised without worries, so I tend to do things at my own pace," she said. "From childhood, I've been a little shy, so I'll try hard from now on to conquer this."

Watch |&nbsp;Japan's machinery orders falls for first time in 5 months

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japans-machinery-orders-falls-for-first-time-in-5-months-463046/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Princess Aiko, the only child of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an adult member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and marriage is still far in the future.

Princess Aiko, the only child of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, said on Thursday that taking part in rituals as an adult member of the imperial family remained "rather tense" for her, and marriage is still far in the future. Japan's imperial family became the centre of global attention last year when Aiko's 30-year-old cousin Mako defied widespread opposition to marry her college sweetheart after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the stresses of her tumultuous engagement. Mako's marriage to Kei Komuro, a commoner who works in a law office in New York, meant giving up her title and leaving the royal family according to imperial family rules - a situation that Aiko, who just turned 20 and became a full-fledged adult royal in December, will face if there is no change. Also read | Four people died after powerful earthquake jolts Japan, images show extent of damage Women cannot inherit the Japanese throne and royal life is circumscribed. Aiko's mother, Empress Masako, gave up a life as a diplomat and has struggled for years with what the palace terms an "adjustment disorder." In her debut news conference, Aiko, who spoke carefully and occasionally smiled shyly, said she was mainly focusing on her studies for now and that the reality of being an adult royal was just sinking in. "For the first time I've taken part in a number of palace rituals, and I was rather tense. It seemed strange that I was being part of things that only my parents had done up to now." Asked about her future plans and views on marriage, Aiko said she had just finished her second year at university, studying Japanese literature, and still has no clear picture of her future after that. Also read | 7.3 magnitude earthquake jolts Japan, tsunami warning issued "For me, marriage still seems far in the future and I haven't really thought of it. I have no particular thought of my ideal partner, but being with somebody and we can make each other smile seems perfect." Aiko, who wore a pastel yellow suit and pearl necklace, avoided comment about her cousin's marriage. Instead, she described being raised "peacefully" and gave unusual glimpses of palace life, including jogging around the grounds with her father and a time she and her parents tried to sit together on a surfboard at the beach and ended up tumbling into the water. "I've been mostly raised without worries, so I tend to do things at my own pace," she said. "From childhood, I've been a little shy, so I'll try hard from now on to conquer this." Watch | Japan's machinery orders falls for first time in 5 months

Japanese emperor's daughter says being an adult royal still 'rather tense', marriage far off

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Japan's Fukushima on Wednesday. It left buildings shaking for a long period. It also derailed a bullet train on top of a bridge. 4 people have died, 100 have been injured. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake hits Japan

The world's top-selling automaker Toyota said Friday it will halt operations on the majority of its Japanese production lines for three days as parts supply is hit by a recent powerful earthquake.

The 7.4-magnitude quake jolted east Japan on Wednesday night, derailing a bullet train and initially cutting power to over two million homes.

Three deaths have been linked to the quake off the coast of Fukushima, which was preceded by a 6.1-magnitude shake in the same area.

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"Due to the parts shortage resulting from suppliers affected by the earthquakes, additional adjustments will be made to production operations in some plants in Japan," the Japanese automaker said in a statement.

Toyota will suspend operations on 17 of its 28 domestic production lines from Monday to Wednesday, and one other line just on Monday.

The decision will impact 11 factories in total and includes some lines run by Toyota's subsidiaries Hino and Daihatsu.

A Toyota spokeswoman told AFP that the stoppage will affect the production of approximately 20,000 vehicles.

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The auto giant has already been forced to lower its production goals because of pandemic-related supply chain issues and the global chip shortage.

The company also halted operations at all 14 Japanese plants for a day last month, after one of its suppliers suffered a cyberattack.

Despite these challenges, Toyota was able to retain its crown as the world's top-selling carmaker in 2021 and posted a forecast-beating quarterly net profit.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake hits Japan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-74-magnitude-earthquake-hits-japan-463275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The world's top-selling automaker Toyota said Friday it will halt operations on the majority of its Japanese production lines for three days as parts supply is hit by a recent powerful earthquake.

The world's top-selling automaker Toyota said Friday it will halt operations on the majority of its Japanese production lines for three days as parts supply is hit by a recent powerful earthquake. The 7.4-magnitude quake jolted east Japan on Wednesday night, derailing a bullet train and initially cutting power to over two million homes. Three deaths have been linked to the quake off the coast of Fukushima, which was preceded by a 6.1-magnitude shake in the same area. Also read | Japanese emperor's daughter says being an adult royal still 'rather tense', marriage far off "Due to the parts shortage resulting from suppliers affected by the earthquakes, additional adjustments will be made to production operations in some plants in Japan," the Japanese automaker said in a statement. Toyota will suspend operations on 17 of its 28 domestic production lines from Monday to Wednesday, and one other line just on Monday. The decision will impact 11 factories in total and includes some lines run by Toyota's subsidiaries Hino and Daihatsu. A Toyota spokeswoman told AFP that the stoppage will affect the production of approximately 20,000 vehicles. Also read | Four people died after powerful earthquake jolts Japan, images show extent of damage The auto giant has already been forced to lower its production goals because of pandemic-related supply chain issues and the global chip shortage. The company also halted operations at all 14 Japanese plants for a day last month, after one of its suppliers suffered a cyberattack. Despite these challenges, Toyota was able to retain its crown as the world's top-selling carmaker in 2021 and posted a forecast-beating quarterly net profit. Watch | Gravitas: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake hits Japan

Toyota pauses most Japan production after quake

Japan's central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief said on Friday the country will likely reach its key two-percent&nbsp;inflation&nbsp;target as&nbsp;oil&nbsp;rates surge, but the&nbsp;bank&nbsp;will continue monetary easing policies because the price rises are caused by external factors.

The&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;of&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;has struggled to lift&nbsp;inflation&nbsp;for nearly a decade with the world's third-largest economy swinging between periods of sluggish&nbsp;inflation and deflation, both considered bad for growth.

"Unlike in the US and Europe,&nbsp;inflation&nbsp;is currently at around 0.6 percent, and is likely to rise to about two percent after April," BoJ governor Haruhiko Kuroda told reporters following a two-day policy meeting.

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"Most of the rise in prices will be caused by increases in international commodity supplies, energy, and food import prices, so naturally it is not necessary&nbsp;or appropriate to tighten monetary policy."

The United States Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate on Wednesday for the first time since 2018 in a bid to tackle soaring&nbsp;inflation.

Kuroda said consumption in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;is expected to further recover from a pandemic dip as the government lifts restrictions -- which mainly require restaurants and bars to limit opening hours -- in Tokyo and elsewhere on Monday.

Japan's core consumer prices, which exclude volatile fresh food, rose 0.6 per cent in February from a year earlier, government data showed Friday.

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The internal affairs ministry said the rise was driven by food prices and utility bills due to a surge in energy costs linked to the Ukraine crisis.

It met market expectations as the sixth straight monthly gain, and the sharpest rise since February 2020.

The BoJ's target of sustained two-percent&nbsp;inflation&nbsp;is seen as key to spurring healthy economic growth in&nbsp;Japan.

But analysts say that even if the target is hit in the coming months, it is unlikely to last.

"Once the energy-price shock and deterioration in terms of trade is gone, prices will decline again," Shigeto Nagai of Oxford Economics told AFP ahead of the BoJ meeting.

Excluding energy prices as well as fresh food,&nbsp;Japan's consumer prices were down 1.0 percent in February, the 11th straight monthly fall, the ministry said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake hits Japan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-74-magnitude-earthquake-hits-japan-463275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Japan's central bank chief said on Friday the country will likely reach its key two-percent inflation target as oil rates surge, but the bank will continue monetary easing policies because the price rises are caused by external factors.

Japan's central bank chief said on Friday the country will likely reach its key two-percent inflation target as oil rates surge, but the bank will continue monetary easing policies because the price rises are caused by external factors. The Bank of Japan has struggled to lift inflation for nearly a decade with the world's third-largest economy swinging between periods of sluggish inflation and deflation, both considered bad for growth. "Unlike in the US and Europe, inflation is currently at around 0.6 percent, and is likely to rise to about two percent after April," BoJ governor Haruhiko Kuroda told reporters following a two-day policy meeting. Also read | Japanese emperor's daughter says being an adult royal still 'rather tense', marriage far off "Most of the rise in prices will be caused by increases in international commodity supplies, energy, and food import prices, so naturally it is not necessary or appropriate to tighten monetary policy." The United States Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate on Wednesday for the first time since 2018 in a bid to tackle soaring inflation. Kuroda said consumption in Japan is expected to further recover from a pandemic dip as the government lifts restrictions -- which mainly require restaurants and bars to limit opening hours -- in Tokyo and elsewhere on Monday. Japan's core consumer prices, which exclude volatile fresh food, rose 0.6 per cent in February from a year earlier, government data showed Friday. Also read | Japan imposes new sanctions on Russian billionaire, and 16 others The internal affairs ministry said the rise was driven by food prices and utility bills due to a surge in energy costs linked to the Ukraine crisis. It met market expectations as the sixth straight monthly gain, and the sharpest rise since February 2020. The BoJ's target of sustained two-percent inflation is seen as key to spurring healthy economic growth in Japan. But analysts say that even if the target is hit in the coming months, it is unlikely to last. "Once the energy-price shock and deterioration in terms of trade is gone, prices will decline again," Shigeto Nagai of Oxford Economics told AFP ahead of the BoJ meeting. Excluding energy prices as well as fresh food, Japan's consumer prices were down 1.0 percent in February, the 11th straight monthly fall, the ministry said. Watch | Gravitas: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake hits Japan

Bank of Japan says no tightening as oil stirs inflation

Japan's core machinery orders slipped for the first time in five months in January, a worrying sign for an economy already facing heightened pressure from the Ukraine war and high energy and raw material prices.

Japan's machinery orders falls for first time in 5 months

Four people died after powerful earthquake jolts Japan, images show extent of damage

At least four people have been killed and 94 injured after a powerful earthquake hit northeastern Japan. The 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the Fukushima region at a depth of 60km just before midnight on Wednesday.

At least four killed after 7.3-magnitude earthquake hits Northeast Japan

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports.

Osaka was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her eventual 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova.

After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade.

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"It's a difficult one," Murray told reporters after his second-round loss on Sunday.

"I've often thought watching certain sports, I wouldn't say I've often seen it loads in tennis ... but if I watch a football or a soccer match and a player's going to take throw-in or a corner kick and the crowd are just hurling insults at those individuals."

"I always think, how is that allowed? Like, you can't do that," he said, adding that such behaviour would be unacceptable in public or any other workplace setting.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-first-indian-to-achieve-rare-feat-with-twin-half-centuries-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-462102">Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

Murray said he had heard comments that were "not comfortable" when playing Davis Cup matches away from home in intense environments.

"Obviously I feel for Naomi, that it upset her a lot but yeah, it's always been something that`s been part of sport, I guess, as well," Murray said.

"So, you know, you have to, I guess, be prepared for that in some ways and be able to tolerate it because it does happen regularly across all sports."

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports.

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports. Osaka was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her eventual 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova. After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade. ALSO READ: Bangladesh beat Pakistan by 9 runs to register their maiden win in ICC Women's World Cup history "It's a difficult one," Murray told reporters after his second-round loss on Sunday. "I've often thought watching certain sports, I wouldn't say I've often seen it loads in tennis ... but if I watch a football or a soccer match and a player's going to take throw-in or a corner kick and the crowd are just hurling insults at those individuals." "I always think, how is that allowed? Like, you can't do that," he said, adding that such behaviour would be unacceptable in public or any other workplace setting. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Murray said he had heard comments that were "not comfortable" when playing Davis Cup matches away from home in intense environments. "Obviously I feel for Naomi, that it upset her a lot but yeah, it's always been something that`s been part of sport, I guess, as well," Murray said. "So, you know, you have to, I guess, be prepared for that in some ways and be able to tolerate it because it does happen regularly across all sports."

Hecklers are an unfortunate part of sports: Andy Murray after Naomi Osaka reduced to tears at Indian Wells

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students.

“They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News.

“I’ve always criticised these rules, but because there’s such a lack of criticism and it’s become so normalised, students have no choice but to accept them.”

“Because if the two-block (undercut) is OK, then some students might start saying the mohawk should be OK,” Sugiyama explained.&nbsp;

“Many schools ignore notices that aren’t legally binding or that don’t have penalties,” he added.

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Japan's schools have strict rules about hair colour, accessories, make-up and uniforms, including the length of skirts for girls.

Nearly half of Tokyo high schools ask students with hair that is wavy or not black to submit certificates confirming that their hair is not artificially altered, public broadcaster NHK has reported.

Of 177 high schools run by the Tokyo Metropolitan government, 79 ask for these certificates signed by parents.

Tokyo’s board of education told NHK that the hair certificates are not compulsory. But the broadcaster said only five of the 79 schools make it clear in writing that students aren’t required to submit them.

In June last year, outcry from students and parents over these rules prompted the Japanese government to ask all prefectural boards of education to revise draconian school rules.&nbsp;

The harsh regulations, known as buraku kōsoku or “black rules,” have roots dating back to the 1870s when the Japanese government first established increasingly restrictive system of education in an attempt to reduce bullying and violence in schools. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students. “They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News.

Japanese schools have banned female students from wearing their hair in ponytails as they fear the “nape of their necks” could “sexually excite” male students. “They’re worried boys will look at girls, which is similar to the reasoning behind upholding a white-only underwear color rule,” former middle school teacher Motoki Sugiyama told Vice World News. “I’ve always criticised these rules, but because there’s such a lack of criticism and it’s become so normalised, students have no choice but to accept them.” “Because if the two-block (undercut) is OK, then some students might start saying the mohawk should be OK,” Sugiyama explained. “Many schools ignore notices that aren’t legally binding or that don’t have penalties,” he added. Also read | In a first, Japanese women beat men in medical school acceptance rate Japan's schools have strict rules about hair colour, accessories, make-up and uniforms, including the length of skirts for girls. Nearly half of Tokyo high schools ask students with hair that is wavy or not black to submit certificates confirming that their hair is not artificially altered, public broadcaster NHK has reported. Of 177 high schools run by the Tokyo Metropolitan government, 79 ask for these certificates signed by parents. Tokyo’s board of education told NHK that the hair certificates are not compulsory. But the broadcaster said only five of the 79 schools make it clear in writing that students aren’t required to submit them. In June last year, outcry from students and parents over these rules prompted the Japanese government to ask all prefectural boards of education to revise draconian school rules. The harsh regulations, known as buraku kōsoku or “black rules,” have roots dating back to the 1870s when the Japanese government first established increasingly restrictive system of education in an attempt to reduce bullying and violence in schools. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Schools have banned ponytails fearing they might ‘sexually excite’ men

Andy Murray overcame a slow start and a third set service break to beat Taro Daniel 1-6 6-2 6-4 in the first round of Indian Wells on Friday and notch his 700th career win.

With the victory, the Briton became the 18th player of the Open era to achieve the feat on the ATP Tour.

"This was a target that I set for myself on the back end of last year," Murray said in an on-court interview.

"It's a lot of wins obviously, and I'm very happy to get it here.

"Let's go for 800 now."

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It appeared Murray would have to wait to reach the milestone after Daniel came out sharp, attacking Murray's serve and cruising through the first set on a sunny day in the Southern California desert.

Murray, who is three years removed from major hip surgery, did not move well early on but sprang to life in the second, breaking Daniel at love when the Japanese player sent a forehand wide on set point to level the match at a set apiece.

Daniel won eight straight points to open the third and take a 2-0 lead with help from some sloppy play by the three-time Grand Slam champion.

But Murray would not give in, pumping his fist when he broke back with a forehand winner for 3-3 to the delight of sun-soaked crowd at Stadium One.

Nerves appeared to get to Daniel in the final game as he committed three straight unforced errors to give Murray three match points, and the 34-year-old converted his third opportunity to seal the win.

"I got off to a bit of a slow start," Murray said.

"I'm old now so with these 11 a.m. starts, it takes me a bit of time to get going.

"But Taro played extremely well. I lost to him in Australia so I was expecting a tough match," Murray said of Daniel, who beat the Briton in straight sets in Melbourne in January.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-reminds-me-of-imran-khan-aaqib-javed-names-pakistan-star-who-can-replace-babar-azam-as-captain-461589">‘He reminds me of Imran Khan’ – Aaqib Javed names Pakistan star who can replace Babar Azam as captain</a>

Tournament wild card Murray will look to notch his 701st win when he faces Alexander Bublik in the second round of the Masters 1000 tournament on Saturday.

In other first round action, Australian Jordan Thompson beat David Goffin in a tight three-setter, Australian John Millman battled past Jan-Lennard Struff and American Sam Querrey bested Tallon Griekspoor.

Andy Murray overcame a slow start and a third set service break to beat Taro Daniel 1-6 6-2 6-4 in the first round of Indian Wells on Friday and notch his 700th career win.

Andy Murray overcame a slow start and a third set service break to beat Taro Daniel 1-6 6-2 6-4 in the first round of Indian Wells on Friday and notch his 700th career win. With the victory, the Briton became the 18th player of the Open era to achieve the feat on the ATP Tour. "This was a target that I set for myself on the back end of last year," Murray said in an on-court interview. "It's a lot of wins obviously, and I'm very happy to get it here. "Let's go for 800 now." ALSO READ: European winter sports festival: Russian Olympic Committee appeals to overturn ban on its athletes It appeared Murray would have to wait to reach the milestone after Daniel came out sharp, attacking Murray's serve and cruising through the first set on a sunny day in the Southern California desert. Murray, who is three years removed from major hip surgery, did not move well early on but sprang to life in the second, breaking Daniel at love when the Japanese player sent a forehand wide on set point to level the match at a set apiece. Daniel won eight straight points to open the third and take a 2-0 lead with help from some sloppy play by the three-time Grand Slam champion. But Murray would not give in, pumping his fist when he broke back with a forehand winner for 3-3 to the delight of sun-soaked crowd at Stadium One. Nerves appeared to get to Daniel in the final game as he committed three straight unforced errors to give Murray three match points, and the 34-year-old converted his third opportunity to seal the win. "I got off to a bit of a slow start," Murray said. "I'm old now so with these 11 a.m. starts, it takes me a bit of time to get going. "But Taro played extremely well. I lost to him in Australia so I was expecting a tough match," Murray said of Daniel, who beat the Briton in straight sets in Melbourne in January. ALSO READ: ‘He reminds me of Imran Khan’ – Aaqib Javed names Pakistan star who can replace Babar Azam as captain Tournament wild card Murray will look to notch his 701st win when he faces Alexander Bublik in the second round of the Masters 1000 tournament on Saturday. In other first round action, Australian Jordan Thompson beat David Goffin in a tight three-setter, Australian John Millman battled past Jan-Lennard Struff and American Sam Querrey bested Tallon Griekspoor.

Indian Wells: Andy Murray beat Japan's Taro Daniel to bag his 700th career win

Japan's household spending was up in January but the business mood is sinking in the first quarter. Because of rising raw material costs, it has squeezed corporate margins.

Japan's business mood sinks: Slowdown eclipses household spending boost

Pics: After over a decade, Japan mourns victims of Fukushima disaster

The election of Yoon Suk-yeol as South Korea's next president has been welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The PM said he hoped to work closely with him to rebuild healthier ties with the neighbour. &nbsp;

Kishida told reporters, "I offer my heartfelt congratulations on his election. Especially now as the international community faces major change, healthy Japan-South Korea relations are ... indispensable." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-votes-for-new-leader-to-tackle-covid-19-soaring-house-prices-inequality-460418" hreflang="en">South Korea votes for new leader to tackle COVID-19, soaring house prices, inequality</a>

On Thursday, 60-year-old Yoon also talked with US President Joe Biden over call, Yonhap News reported, citing Yoon's party. &nbsp;

In Wednesday's presidential election, conservative Yoon was elected president. Ruling party candidate Lee Jae-myung conceded defeat and congratulated his opponent. &nbsp;

The election witnessed a wave of discontent over scandals, economic policy&nbsp;and gender wars. It has reshaped the political future of Asia's fourth-largest economy. &nbsp;

Yoon’s victory in the bitterly fought election means a remarkable turnaround for the main conservative bloc. It is now known as the People Power Party. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-calls-for-maximum-restraint-offers-to-mediate-between-ukraine-and-russia-460498" hreflang="en">China’s Xi calls for ‘maximum restraint’, offers to mediate between Ukraine and Russia</a>

The party had been struggling to regroup since the 2017 snap election was held after the impeachment and ouster of then President Park Geun-hye. &nbsp;

At a victory ceremony with supporters, Yoon said, "I would pay attention to people's livelihoods, provide warm welfare services to the needy, and make utmost efforts so that our country serves as a proud, responsible member of the international community and the free world." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The election of Yoon Suk-yeol as South Korea's next president has been welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday. The PM said he hoped to work closely with him to rebuild healthier ties with the neighbour.

The election of Yoon Suk-yeol as South Korea's next president has been welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday. The PM said he hoped to work closely with him to rebuild healthier ties with the neighbour. Kishida told reporters, "I offer my heartfelt congratulations on his election. Especially now as the international community faces major change, healthy Japan-South Korea relations are ... indispensable." Also Read: South Korea votes for new leader to tackle COVID-19, soaring house prices, inequality On Thursday, 60-year-old Yoon also talked with US President Joe Biden over call, Yonhap News reported, citing Yoon's party. In Wednesday's presidential election, conservative Yoon was elected president. Ruling party candidate Lee Jae-myung conceded defeat and congratulated his opponent. The election witnessed a wave of discontent over scandals, economic policy and gender wars. It has reshaped the political future of Asia's fourth-largest economy. Yoon’s victory in the bitterly fought election means a remarkable turnaround for the main conservative bloc. It is now known as the People Power Party. Also Read: China’s Xi calls for ‘maximum restraint’, offers to mediate between Ukraine and Russia The party had been struggling to regroup since the 2017 snap election was held after the impeachment and ouster of then President Park Geun-hye. At a victory ceremony with supporters, Yoon said, "I would pay attention to people's livelihoods, provide warm welfare services to the needy, and make utmost efforts so that our country serves as a proud, responsible member of the international community and the free world." (With inputs from agencies)

Japan PM congratulates South Korea's President-elect Yoon, looks for improvement in ties

Japan has recorded its largest current account deficit since the start of 2014. This has happened in January as a jump in oil import costs offset gains in investment incomes with continuing uncertainty due to the Ukraine crisis.

Oil import costs widen Japan's deficit

A mummy in the shape of a mermaid that is said to grant immortality to whoever tastes its flesh will be probed by Japanese scientists to trace its origin.

The bizarre 12-inch (30 centimetres) creature was allegedly caught in the Pacific Ocean, off the Japanese island of Shikoku, between 1736 and 1741.

It has now been preserved at a temple in Asakuchi city, Okayama prefecture in the southern part of Japan’s Honshu island.

The mummified object, which appears to have nails and teeth, hair on head and scales on its lower body, has been sent for a CT scan at the veterinary hospital of Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts.

Japan’s&nbsp;Asahi Shimbun newspaper said that mummy was found preserved in a box along with a note claiming the that it had been caught in a fishing net in the Pacific Ocean at some point between 1736 and 1741.

The “dried mermaid” was said to have been kept by a family and then passed to another before it was eventually acquired by a temple, which put it on display some four decades ago.

It is also being claimed that the object may have been produced as an item for export to Europe.

Hiroshi Kinoshita, of the Okayama Folklore Society, found the object while studying Kiyoaki Sato, a Japanese natural historian who researched mysterious creatures.

He said the creature could have religious significance.

“Japanese mermaids have a legend of immortality. It is said that if you eat the flesh of a mermaid, you will never die,” New York Post quoted Kinoshita as saying.

“There is a legend in many parts of Japan that a woman accidentally ate the flesh of a mermaid and lived for 800 years.”

He claimed that some people believed in the legend and used to eat the scales of mermaid mummies.”

The scientists who are examining the mummy will publish their findings later this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

A mummy in the shape of a mermaid that is said to grant immortality to whoever tastes its flesh will be probed by Japanese scientists to trace its origin. The bizarre 12-inch (30 centimetres) creature was allegedly caught in the Pacific Ocean, off the Japanese island of Shikoku, between 1736 and 1741.

A mummy in the shape of a mermaid that is said to grant immortality to whoever tastes its flesh will be probed by Japanese scientists to trace its origin. The bizarre 12-inch (30 centimetres) creature was allegedly caught in the Pacific Ocean, off the Japanese island of Shikoku, between 1736 and 1741. It has now been preserved at a temple in Asakuchi city, Okayama prefecture in the southern part of Japan’s Honshu island. The mummified object, which appears to have nails and teeth, hair on head and scales on its lower body, has been sent for a CT scan at the veterinary hospital of Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts. Japan’s Asahi Shimbun newspaper said that mummy was found preserved in a box along with a note claiming the that it had been caught in a fishing net in the Pacific Ocean at some point between 1736 and 1741. The “dried mermaid” was said to have been kept by a family and then passed to another before it was eventually acquired by a temple, which put it on display some four decades ago. It is also being claimed that the object may have been produced as an item for export to Europe. Hiroshi Kinoshita, of the Okayama Folklore Society, found the object while studying Kiyoaki Sato, a Japanese natural historian who researched mysterious creatures. He said the creature could have religious significance. “Japanese mermaids have a legend of immortality. It is said that if you eat the flesh of a mermaid, you will never die,” New York Post quoted Kinoshita as saying. “There is a legend in many parts of Japan that a woman accidentally ate the flesh of a mermaid and lived for 800 years.” He claimed that some people believed in the legend and used to eat the scales of mermaid mummies.” The scientists who are examining the mummy will publish their findings later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese scientists to probe origins of mummified mermaid said to grant immortality

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Quad leaders held a virtual meeting. However, Quad seems divided over the response on Ukraine as India rejected Kyiv on Quad's agenda.

Quad divided over response on Russian invasion of Ukraine? India rejects Kyiv on Quad agenda

Japan's jobless rate rises to 2.8%. The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has also overshadowed the recovery outlook of the economy.

Japan's jobless rate rises: Ukraine crisis overshadow recovery outlook

Sony is teaming up with automaker Honda to start a new company that will develop and sell electric vehicles, as the Japanese tech and electronics giant leaps into the rapidly growing sector.

Major global carmakers are increasingly prioritising electric and hybrid vehicles as concern about climate change grows.

Sony Group said Friday the two Japanese names hope to establish their firm by the end of this year with sales of their first electric model expected to begin in 2025.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-men-answer-kyivs-call-for-volunteers-to-fight-against-russia-458197">Japanese men answer Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia</a>

The announcement comes on the heels of Sony's January unveiling of a new prototype, its Vision-S electric vehicle, and the announcement of a new subsidiary Sony Mobility to explore entering the EV market.

"Although Sony and Honda are companies that share many historical and cultural similarities, our areas of technological expertise are very different," Sony Group president Kenichiro Yoshida said in a statement.

"I believe this alliance which brings together the strengths of our two companies offers great possibilities for the future of mobility."

At a joint press conference, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe said discussions on the collaboration had picked up speed when Honda and Sony staff "felt big possibilities, like a chemical reaction" at a joint mobility workshop held last year.

Honda will be responsible for manufacturing the pair's first vehicle, but both companies will work together on design, tech and sales.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-screen-that-tastes-good-developed-in-japan-439417">A screen that tastes good developed in Japan</a>

Mio Kato, an analyst at Lightstream Research who publishes on Smartkarma, said Sony would be able to make use of its technology from image sensors to next-gen display as well as AI in the new vehicles.

"(The alliance) helps Sony maintain its asset-light model and is also positive for Honda, but we do feel that it makes Honda look a little lost in the changing world," he said in a note.

At present, around 10 percent of European car sales are EVs, and the US figure is just two percent.

But demand is growing, and other major automakers including Honda's Japanese rivals are investing money and resources into electric vehicles.

Earlier this year, the Nissan auto alliance promised to offer 35 new electric models by 2030 as it announced a total investment of $25 billion in the sector.

Toyota, the world's top-selling carmaker, has also recently hiked its 2030 electric vehicle sales goal by 75 percent in a more ambitious plan for the sector.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan's jobless rate rises: Ukraine crisis overshadow recovery outlook

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japans-jobless-rate-rises-ukraine-crisis-overshadow-recovery-outlook-458782/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

And last week, German auto giant Volkswagen said it was drawing up plans to list its luxury brand Porsche as it looks to raise the funds for its move to electric vehicles.

Yoshida emphasised on Friday that the new partnership was "not exclusive".

"We want to expand it, because we want to contribute to and lead the evolution of mobility," he said.

Sony is teaming up with automaker Honda to start a new company that will develop and sell electric vehicles, as the Japanese tech and electronics giant leaps into the rapidly growing sector.

Sony is teaming up with automaker Honda to start a new company that will develop and sell electric vehicles, as the Japanese tech and electronics giant leaps into the rapidly growing sector. Major global carmakers are increasingly prioritising electric and hybrid vehicles as concern about climate change grows. Sony Group said Friday the two Japanese names hope to establish their firm by the end of this year with sales of their first electric model expected to begin in 2025. Also read | Japanese men answer Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia The announcement comes on the heels of Sony's January unveiling of a new prototype, its Vision-S electric vehicle, and the announcement of a new subsidiary Sony Mobility to explore entering the EV market. "Although Sony and Honda are companies that share many historical and cultural similarities, our areas of technological expertise are very different," Sony Group president Kenichiro Yoshida said in a statement. "I believe this alliance which brings together the strengths of our two companies offers great possibilities for the future of mobility." At a joint press conference, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe said discussions on the collaboration had picked up speed when Honda and Sony staff "felt big possibilities, like a chemical reaction" at a joint mobility workshop held last year. Honda will be responsible for manufacturing the pair's first vehicle, but both companies will work together on design, tech and sales. Also read | A screen that tastes good developed in Japan Mio Kato, an analyst at Lightstream Research who publishes on Smartkarma, said Sony would be able to make use of its technology from image sensors to next-gen display as well as AI in the new vehicles. "(The alliance) helps Sony maintain its asset-light model and is also positive for Honda, but we do feel that it makes Honda look a little lost in the changing world," he said in a note. At present, around 10 percent of European car sales are EVs, and the US figure is just two percent. But demand is growing, and other major automakers including Honda's Japanese rivals are investing money and resources into electric vehicles. Earlier this year, the Nissan auto alliance promised to offer 35 new electric models by 2030 as it announced a total investment of $25 billion in the sector. Toyota, the world's top-selling carmaker, has also recently hiked its 2030 electric vehicle sales goal by 75 percent in a more ambitious plan for the sector. Watch | Japan's jobless rate rises: Ukraine crisis overshadow recovery outlook And last week, German auto giant Volkswagen said it was drawing up plans to list its luxury brand Porsche as it looks to raise the funds for its move to electric vehicles. Yoshida emphasised on Friday that the new partnership was "not exclusive". "We want to expand it, because we want to contribute to and lead the evolution of mobility," he said.

Sony and Honda plan joint electric vehicle firm

Former Nissan Motor Co. executive Greg Kelly and the automaker itself were found guilty on Thursday on charges connected to the underreporting of ousted CEO Carlos Ghosn's pay. 
 
The former Nissan representative director was sentenced by the Tokyo District Court to six months in prison, suspended for three years, reports Xinhua news agency. 
 
The court ordered Nissan, Japan's third-largest automaker, to pay 200 million yen ($1 million) in fines, in line with prosecutors'&nbsp;demands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russia-ukraine-crisis-day-8-swift-says-will-comply-with-eu-instructions-disconnect-7-russian-banks-458393">Russia-Ukraine Crisis Day 8: SWIFT says will comply with EU instructions, disconnect 7 Russian banks</a> 
 
Kelly, a US citizen and former close aide of Ghosn, however, had a number of other charges by prosecutors facing him dropped. 
 
He was accused of colluding with Ghosn in understating Ghosn's remuneration by around 9 billion yen over eight years through March 2018. 
 
Nissan was also found guilty of violating Japan's financial instruments and exchange law. 
 
Prosecutors, since the trial kicked-off in September 2020, have argued that Kelly's role was a decisive one in plotting the scam to enable Ghosn to be compensated with deferred payments, 
 
These deferred payments were in addition to his regular pay and were aimed at making Ghosn's earnings look lower than was in fact the case. 
 
Kelly, maintaining that there was no agreement between Ghosn and himself for the alleged deferred payments, said he wanted to retain Ghosn so the once-feted auto bigwig could continue providing services for Nissan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eurozone-inflation-hits-record-high-due-to-soaring-energy-prices-458304">Eurozone inflation hits record high due to soaring energy prices</a> 
 
These deferred payments were in addition to his regular pay and were aimed at making Ghosn's earnings look lower than was in fact the case. 
 
In June 2021, two US citizens charged with helping Ghosn flee Japan in 2019 while on bail awaiting his trial pleaded guilty in court. 
 
Michael Taylor, a former Green Beret, and his son Peter had already admitted to helping Ghosn flee Japan so the former auto tycoon could avoid trial for charges of financial misconduct. 
 
The Taylors were charged with providing Ghosn illegal passage to Lebanon, one of three countries he is a national of, by smuggling him out of his residence in Tokyo and to Kansai International Airport via two hotels in late December 2019. 
 
The father and son team, in full knowledge that Ghosn was prohibited from leaving the country as part of his bail terms, hid Ghosn in a large box, which cleared Kansai airport security, and the illicit cargo was flown to Turkey on a private jet. 
 
At the request of Japanese prosecutors, the Taylors were arrested in Massachusetts in 2020 by US authorities. 
 
They had fought extradition to Japan in US courts but ultimately lost their battle when their appeal was rejected by the US Supreme Court.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'The great escape' of Carlos Ghosn

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-great-escape-of-carlos-ghosn-271492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Michael Taylor ended up receiving a two-year sentence, and Peter Taylor received a sentence of one year and eight months at the conclusion of their trial. 
 
Japan has since been trying to detain Ghosn with the help of Interpol as Lebanon does not have an extradition treaty with Japan. 
 
This means that Ghosn cannot be legally handed over to Japan without Lebanon first agreeing to it.

Former Nissan Motor Co. executive Greg Kelly and the automaker itself were found guilty on Thursday on charges connected to the underreporting of ousted CEO Carlos Ghosn's pay.

Former Nissan Motor Co. executive Greg Kelly and the automaker itself were found guilty on Thursday on charges connected to the underreporting of ousted CEO Carlos Ghosn's pay. The former Nissan representative director was sentenced by the Tokyo District Court to six months in prison, suspended for three years, reports Xinhua news agency. The court ordered Nissan, Japan's third-largest automaker, to pay 200 million yen ($1 million) in fines, in line with prosecutors' demands. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis Day 8: SWIFT says will comply with EU instructions, disconnect 7 Russian banks Kelly, a US citizen and former close aide of Ghosn, however, had a number of other charges by prosecutors facing him dropped. He was accused of colluding with Ghosn in understating Ghosn's remuneration by around 9 billion yen over eight years through March 2018. Nissan was also found guilty of violating Japan's financial instruments and exchange law. Prosecutors, since the trial kicked-off in September 2020, have argued that Kelly's role was a decisive one in plotting the scam to enable Ghosn to be compensated with deferred payments, These deferred payments were in addition to his regular pay and were aimed at making Ghosn's earnings look lower than was in fact the case. Kelly, maintaining that there was no agreement between Ghosn and himself for the alleged deferred payments, said he wanted to retain Ghosn so the once-feted auto bigwig could continue providing services for Nissan. Also read | Eurozone inflation hits record high due to soaring energy prices These deferred payments were in addition to his regular pay and were aimed at making Ghosn's earnings look lower than was in fact the case. In June 2021, two US citizens charged with helping Ghosn flee Japan in 2019 while on bail awaiting his trial pleaded guilty in court. Michael Taylor, a former Green Beret, and his son Peter had already admitted to helping Ghosn flee Japan so the former auto tycoon could avoid trial for charges of financial misconduct. The Taylors were charged with providing Ghosn illegal passage to Lebanon, one of three countries he is a national of, by smuggling him out of his residence in Tokyo and to Kansai International Airport via two hotels in late December 2019. The father and son team, in full knowledge that Ghosn was prohibited from leaving the country as part of his bail terms, hid Ghosn in a large box, which cleared Kansai airport security, and the illicit cargo was flown to Turkey on a private jet. At the request of Japanese prosecutors, the Taylors were arrested in Massachusetts in 2020 by US authorities. They had fought extradition to Japan in US courts but ultimately lost their battle when their appeal was rejected by the US Supreme Court. Watch | Gravitas: 'The great escape' of Carlos Ghosn Michael Taylor ended up receiving a two-year sentence, and Peter Taylor received a sentence of one year and eight months at the conclusion of their trial. Japan has since been trying to detain Ghosn with the help of Interpol as Lebanon does not have an extradition treaty with Japan. This means that Ghosn cannot be legally handed over to Japan without Lebanon first agreeing to it.

Ex-Nissan executive Greg Kelly found guilty of underreporting Ghosn's pay, gets six months in prison

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Quad leaders are all set to hold a virtual meeting today. The Indo-Pacific developments are in focus.

Quad leaders' virtual meet today amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Approximately 70 Japanese men have answered Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia, the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper said, quoting a Tokyo company handling the volunteers.

These include 50 former members of Japan's Self-Defence Forces and two veterans of the French Foreign Legion.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the Ukrainian Embassy acknowledged receiving calls from people "wanting to fight for Ukraine," but declined to give further details.

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A social media post from the embassy thanked Japanese for their many inquiries about volunteering.

"Any candidates for this must have experience in Japan's Self-Defence Forces or have undergone specialised training," it said.

In a new post on Twitter on Wednesday, the Ukrainian embassy in Japan said it was looking for volunteers with medical, IT, communication, or firefighting experience. It was not immediately clear if the volunteer positions were remote or involved travelling to Ukraine.

The war in Ukraine has stirred strong emotions in Japan, which has a post-war pacifist constitution that has been reinterpreted in recent years to allow Japan to exercise collective self-defence or aid allies under attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-assets-of-russian-president-vladimir-putin-can-be-seized-due-to-ukraine-invasion-458127">In pics-Ukraine invasion:These assets of Russian President Putin can be seized</a>

Hundreds gathered for a protest against the Russian invasion last week in Tokyo, while the Ukrainian embassy said it collected $17 million in donations from some 60,000 people in Japan after it put out an online request for help.

Japan has also announced sanctions on Russia, including freezing the assets of Russian groups, banks and individuals and suspending exports of semiconductors and other sensitive goods to military-linked organisations in Russia.

Japan will accept Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russia's ongoing invasion, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday, in a break with the country's usual reticence to accept humanitarian arrivals.

Japan typically accepts just a few dozen refugees a year out of thousands of applicants, and its borders are currently closed to virtually all foreign visitors to prevent Covid-19 infections.

But Kishida said the country would now "proceed with a plan to welcome people from Ukraine who have fled to third countries" in a bid to "demonstrate our solidarity with the Ukrainian people at such a crucial moment."

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/long-lines-60-hours-wait-shelter-and-for-some-racism-awaits-them-as-they-flee-ukraine-for-poland-458080">Long lines, 60 hours wait, shelter and for some racism awaits them as they flee Ukraine for Poland</a>

Kishida said Japan expected to first accept those with relatives or friends in the country, "but beyond that, we will respond from a humanitarian perspective," he added without setting a specific cap on arrivals.

He said refugees would be processed outside of the current border regime that bars foreign tourists and limits overseas arrivals.

Japanese billionaire Hiroshi "Mickey" Mikitani said Sunday he will donate $8.7 million to the government of Ukraine, calling Russia's invasion "a challenge to democracy".

The founder of e-commerce giant Rakuten said in a letter addressed to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky that the donation of 1 billion yen ($8.7 million) will go toward "humanitarian activities to help people in Ukraine who are victims of the violence".

(With inputs from agencies)

Approximately 70 Japanese men have answered Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia, the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper said, quoting a Tokyo company handling the volunteers.

Approximately 70 Japanese men have answered Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia, the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper said, quoting a Tokyo company handling the volunteers. These include 50 former members of Japan's Self-Defence Forces and two veterans of the French Foreign Legion. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian Embassy acknowledged receiving calls from people "wanting to fight for Ukraine," but declined to give further details. A social media post from the embassy thanked Japanese for their many inquiries about volunteering. "Any candidates for this must have experience in Japan's Self-Defence Forces or have undergone specialised training," it said. In a new post on Twitter on Wednesday, the Ukrainian embassy in Japan said it was looking for volunteers with medical, IT, communication, or firefighting experience. It was not immediately clear if the volunteer positions were remote or involved travelling to Ukraine. The war in Ukraine has stirred strong emotions in Japan, which has a post-war pacifist constitution that has been reinterpreted in recent years to allow Japan to exercise collective self-defence or aid allies under attack. In pics-Ukraine invasion:These assets of Russian President Putin can be seized Hundreds gathered for a protest against the Russian invasion last week in Tokyo, while the Ukrainian embassy said it collected $17 million in donations from some 60,000 people in Japan after it put out an online request for help. Japan has also announced sanctions on Russia, including freezing the assets of Russian groups, banks and individuals and suspending exports of semiconductors and other sensitive goods to military-linked organisations in Russia. Japan will accept Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russia's ongoing invasion, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday, in a break with the country's usual reticence to accept humanitarian arrivals. Japan typically accepts just a few dozen refugees a year out of thousands of applicants, and its borders are currently closed to virtually all foreign visitors to prevent Covid-19 infections. But Kishida said the country would now "proceed with a plan to welcome people from Ukraine who have fled to third countries" in a bid to "demonstrate our solidarity with the Ukrainian people at such a crucial moment." Also see | Long lines, 60 hours wait, shelter and for some racism awaits them as they flee Ukraine for Poland Kishida said Japan expected to first accept those with relatives or friends in the country, "but beyond that, we will respond from a humanitarian perspective," he added without setting a specific cap on arrivals. He said refugees would be processed outside of the current border regime that bars foreign tourists and limits overseas arrivals. Japanese billionaire Hiroshi "Mickey" Mikitani said Sunday he will donate $8.7 million to the government of Ukraine, calling Russia's invasion "a challenge to democracy". The founder of e-commerce giant Rakuten said in a letter addressed to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky that the donation of 1 billion yen ($8.7 million) will go toward "humanitarian activities to help people in Ukraine who are victims of the violence". (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese men answer Kyiv's call for volunteers to fight against Russia

Japan should consider hosting the nuclear weapons of the US, said former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With the ongoing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine intensifying, 67-year-old Abe seems to have got the right opportunity to promote his belief that the nation should abandon its pacifism and arm itself with offensive weapons. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a TV interview on Sunday, the conservative politician said that Japan could seek an arrangement similar to NATO’s nuclear sharing policy, which allows countries without nuclear arms to keep such weapons on their soil for potential use in wartime. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-war-outbreaks-fear-grows-what-are-nuke-capabilities-of-russia-457686">Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? &nbsp;</a>

Abe, who is still an influential voice in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, said, “We should not put a taboo on discussions about the reality we face.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

This comes as President Vladimir Putin has been making veiled threats of nuclear war over Western sanctions for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-will-there-be-a-nuclear-war-your-questions-answered-457697" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Will there be a nuclear war? Your questions answered</a>

Abe’s suggestion seems to have not gone down well with several people in the country, which has seen widespread devastation during WWII due to two atomic bombs. It has prompted condemnation from the current prime minister and other anti-nuclear politicians. &nbsp;

Abe has also been advocating to develop a first-strike capability on enemy bases to counter nuclear-armed North Korea and an increasingly assertive China. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Japan should consider hosting the nuclear weapons of the US, said former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. With the ongoing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine intensifying, 67-year-old Abe seems to have got the right opportunity to promote his belief that the nation should abandon its pacifism and arm itself with offensive weapons.

Japan should consider hosting the nuclear weapons of the US, said former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. With the ongoing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine intensifying, 67-year-old Abe seems to have got the right opportunity to promote his belief that the nation should abandon its pacifism and arm itself with offensive weapons. In a TV interview on Sunday, the conservative politician said that Japan could seek an arrangement similar to NATO’s nuclear sharing policy, which allows countries without nuclear arms to keep such weapons on their soil for potential use in wartime. Also Read: Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? Abe, who is still an influential voice in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, said, “We should not put a taboo on discussions about the reality we face.” This comes as President Vladimir Putin has been making veiled threats of nuclear war over Western sanctions for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine conflict: Will there be a nuclear war? Your questions answered Abe’s suggestion seems to have not gone down well with several people in the country, which has seen widespread devastation during WWII due to two atomic bombs. It has prompted condemnation from the current prime minister and other anti-nuclear politicians. Abe has also been advocating to develop a first-strike capability on enemy bases to counter nuclear-armed North Korea and an increasingly assertive China. (With inputs from agencies)

With adversaries on the mind, former PM Shinzo Abe says Japan should host US nukes

Several other countries have imposed sanctions on Russia over its actions in Ukraine. Beyond the alliance of western countries, Japan has called Moscow's moves an unacceptable violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and international law.

Japan, Australia, EU impose sanctions on Russia over its actions in Ukraine

Japan&nbsp;on Tuesday said it stood&nbsp;ready&nbsp;to&nbsp;join&nbsp;the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The confirmation by the world's No. 3 economy comes as the crisis in Europe deepens, with the Russian leader on Monday ordering troops into two breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine that Russia now recognizes as independent states.

That action was "unacceptable and a violation of international law," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who called&nbsp;Putin on Thursday to urge restraint, told reporters.&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;was&nbsp;ready&nbsp;for a strong response that could include&nbsp;sanctions, he added.

Also read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-city-pop-the-soundtrack-to-japans-boom-years-goes-viral-455195">&nbsp;|&nbsp;City Pop: the soundtrack to Japan's boom years goes viral</a>

The White House said late on Monday it would announce new&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on Russia on Monday "in response to Moscow’s decisions and actions today."

"We are coordinating with allies and partners on that announcement," a White House spokesperson said.

New&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;by&nbsp;Japan, which would add to those imposed on Russia in 2014 after it occupied the Crimea, would include a ban on semiconductor chips and other key technology exports and tighter restrictions on Russian banks, the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier.

Although&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;is no longer a major exporter of semiconductors, with only a 10% share of the global chip market, it is a key manufacturer of specialised electronic components, such as automotive chips and image sensors, and dominates in other industrial fields, such as high tech manufacturing equipment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-two-russian-backed-areas-in-eastern-ukraine-455190">US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine</a>

Kishida and other government officials who spoke on Tuesday did not say what&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;was mulling.

Japan's toughening stance against Russia contrasts with the softer diplomatic approach to Moscow taken by&nbsp;Japanese administrations in the past. They have courted Putin in an attempt to secure the return of islands occupied by Russian forces at the end of World War Two.

Japan's delicate diplomacy has also been shaped by&nbsp;its&nbsp;reliance on Russia for some of&nbsp;its&nbsp;energy needs. In 2021, Russia provided more than 12% of&nbsp;Japan's thermal coal, and almost a tenth of&nbsp;its&nbsp;liquefied natural gas.

That economic anguish, however, has been overtaken in recent years by growing concern about a revival in Russian military activity in East Asia and Moscow's deepening security cooperation with neighbouring China.

“Ukraine is facing a tense situation now, so we must firmly watch how it could affect&nbsp;Japan’s economy,” Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki said at a briefing on Tuesday.

Watch |&nbsp;'No access to financial markets of Russia plans to invade Ukraine,' warns EU

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&nbsp;

Japan on Tuesday said it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping sanctions on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine.

Japan on Tuesday said it stood ready to join the United States and other G7 industrialized nations in slapping sanctions on Russia, should President Vladimir Putin order an invasion of Ukraine. The confirmation by the world's No. 3 economy comes as the crisis in Europe deepens, with the Russian leader on Monday ordering troops into two breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine that Russia now recognizes as independent states. That action was "unacceptable and a violation of international law," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who called Putin on Thursday to urge restraint, told reporters. Japan was ready for a strong response that could include sanctions, he added. Also read | City Pop: the soundtrack to Japan's boom years goes viral The White House said late on Monday it would announce new sanctions on Russia on Monday "in response to Moscow’s decisions and actions today." "We are coordinating with allies and partners on that announcement," a White House spokesperson said. New sanctions by Japan, which would add to those imposed on Russia in 2014 after it occupied the Crimea, would include a ban on semiconductor chips and other key technology exports and tighter restrictions on Russian banks, the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier. Although Japan is no longer a major exporter of semiconductors, with only a 10% share of the global chip market, it is a key manufacturer of specialised electronic components, such as automotive chips and image sensors, and dominates in other industrial fields, such as high tech manufacturing equipment. Also read | US imposes sanctions on two Russian-backed areas in eastern Ukraine Kishida and other government officials who spoke on Tuesday did not say what sanctions Japan was mulling. Japan's toughening stance against Russia contrasts with the softer diplomatic approach to Moscow taken by Japanese administrations in the past. They have courted Putin in an attempt to secure the return of islands occupied by Russian forces at the end of World War Two. Japan's delicate diplomacy has also been shaped by its reliance on Russia for some of its energy needs. In 2021, Russia provided more than 12% of Japan's thermal coal, and almost a tenth of its liquefied natural gas. That economic anguish, however, has been overtaken in recent years by growing concern about a revival in Russian military activity in East Asia and Moscow's deepening security cooperation with neighbouring China. “Ukraine is facing a tense situation now, so we must firmly watch how it could affect Japan’s economy,” Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki said at a briefing on Tuesday. Watch | 'No access to financial markets of Russia plans to invade Ukraine,' warns EU

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Japan ready to join US-led sanctions on Moscow

The acceptance rate for women has exceeded that for men at Japanese medical schools for the first time.

According to data released by Japan's education ministry, 13.6 per cent of female candidates passed exams at 81 medical schools last spring. In comparison, 13.51 per cent of men passed the same exams.

“It has become clear that the acceptance rate will not be low only for female applicants,” said a Japanese education ministry official told Kyodo news agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-doctor-and-aid-worker-tetsu-nakamura-shot-dead-in-afghanistan-266200">Also read |&nbsp;Japanese doctor and aid worker Tetsu Nakamura shot dead in Afghanistan</a>

It comes after a score-rigging scandal emerged over entrance procedures for Tokyo Medical University that systematically cut women applicant’s entrance exam scores for years to keep them out and boost the numbers of male doctors.

From 2011, the university began cutting the scores of female applicants to keep the number of women students at about 30 percent, after the number of successful women entrants jumped in 2010.

The exam score alterations were discovered in an internal investigation of a graft allegation that emerged last spring season.

The Yomiuri Shimbun daily quoted university sources as saying the action was prompted by a “strong sense at the school” that many women quit medicine after graduating to get married and have children.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-shinzo-abe-to-consult-doctors-before-facing-media-on-friday-323191">Also read |&nbsp;Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to consult doctors before facing media on Friday</a>

Tokyo Medical University spokesman Fumio Azuma said an internal investigation had already begun after allegations last spring of bribery involving the medical school admission of the son of a senior official of the education ministry.

“Of course, we will ask them to include this in their investigations,” he said, adding that while result of the first investigation is expected this month, he does not know when the probe into the new allegations will be completed.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has made creating a society “where women can shine” a priority, but women still face an uphill battle in employment and hurdles returning to work after having children, despite Japan’s falling birthrate.

A 2018 survey by the health ministry found that just 21.9 per cent of doctors were women, the lowest share among countries belonging to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, in which the average was 46 per cent in 2015.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The acceptance rate for women has exceeded that for men at Japanese medical schools for the first time. According to data released by Japan's education ministry, 13.

The acceptance rate for women has exceeded that for men at Japanese medical schools for the first time. According to data released by Japan's education ministry, 13.6 per cent of female candidates passed exams at 81 medical schools last spring. In comparison, 13.51 per cent of men passed the same exams. “It has become clear that the acceptance rate will not be low only for female applicants,” said a Japanese education ministry official told Kyodo news agency. Also read | Japanese doctor and aid worker Tetsu Nakamura shot dead in Afghanistan It comes after a score-rigging scandal emerged over entrance procedures for Tokyo Medical University that systematically cut women applicant’s entrance exam scores for years to keep them out and boost the numbers of male doctors. From 2011, the university began cutting the scores of female applicants to keep the number of women students at about 30 percent, after the number of successful women entrants jumped in 2010. The exam score alterations were discovered in an internal investigation of a graft allegation that emerged last spring season. The Yomiuri Shimbun daily quoted university sources as saying the action was prompted by a “strong sense at the school” that many women quit medicine after graduating to get married and have children. Also read | Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to consult doctors before facing media on Friday Tokyo Medical University spokesman Fumio Azuma said an internal investigation had already begun after allegations last spring of bribery involving the medical school admission of the son of a senior official of the education ministry. “Of course, we will ask them to include this in their investigations,” he said, adding that while result of the first investigation is expected this month, he does not know when the probe into the new allegations will be completed. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has made creating a society “where women can shine” a priority, but women still face an uphill battle in employment and hurdles returning to work after having children, despite Japan’s falling birthrate. A 2018 survey by the health ministry found that just 21.9 per cent of doctors were women, the lowest share among countries belonging to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, in which the average was 46 per cent in 2015. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, Japanese women beat men in medical school acceptance rate

Japan's manufacturing activity expanded at the slowest pace in five months in February as output contracted, underscoring the prolonged impact that global supply chain disruptions are having on the world's third-largest economy.

Japan's Feb factory activity growth falls to 5-month low

Japan is set to announce easing of border controls that were put in place to counter spread of Covid-19 pandemic, these measures were slammed by business leaders and educators.

Japan is set to announce easing of COVID-19 border curbs

Japan&nbsp;will ease its strict&nbsp;virus&nbsp;border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday.

The move comes with growing pressure on&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;from the business community and academics to loosen the border restrictions, which are the toughest in the G7 but have broad support from Japanese voters.

Japan&nbsp;has barred tourists since the early days of the pandemic, and has in some cases prevented even existing foreign residents from entering the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-contrast-to-covids-59-million-deaths-this-malady-kills-more-than-9-million-people-every-year-453616">In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year</a>

Last November, the government slightly loosened the rules to allow some students and businesspeople to enter, but then quickly reversed the plan weeks later as the Omicron strain emerged.

After an Omicron-driven spike in infections, cases in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;now appear to have peaked, experts say.

From March 1, Kishida said "we will allow new visitors, except those coming for tourism", adding that a cap on daily entrants will be raised to from the current 3,500 to 5,000.

More than 400,000 people whose visas have already been approved by authorities were waiting to enter&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;as of January 4, an immigration agency official told AFP.

More than 150,000 of those are students, with another 129,000 workers hired to take part in a technical training programme that is a key source of foreign labour for several industries in the country.

While&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;has not pursued a zero-Covid policy and has avoided strict lockdowns, it has made tough border measures a centrepiece of its pandemic response.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-japan-is-whipping-up-hysteria-in-kuril-islands-row-451707">Russia says Japan is whipping up ‘hysteria’ in Kuril Islands row</a>

Even citizens and returning residents able to enter have been subject to quarantines of up to two weeks, with testing before and after entering the country.

Kishida said quarantine requirements would now be eased, going from seven to three days, if arrivals test negative.

Quarantine will be removed altogether for those with three vaccines doses coming from countries judged low-risk, he added, without specifying particular nations.

Japan&nbsp;has recorded more than 20,950 deaths in the pandemic and polls show Japanese broadly favour the tough restrictions, with nearly 60 percent of respondents in a recent survey by public broadcaster NHK backing a continued ban on entry.

Davide Rossi, an Italian entrepreneur living in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;who campaigns for students stuck outside the country, said the news was a light at the end of the tunnel, and many now hope they can enter&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;before the new semester in April.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan is set to announce easing of COVID-19 border curbs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-is-set-to-announce-easing-of-covid-19-border-curbs-453934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There is a very high sense of urgency. People are really on the verge of quitting, but now, with this announcement, they have some hope," he told AFP.

But he recalled the way the border restrictions were tightened in November, just weeks after being eased.

"Hopefully this is a lesson, too, and the borders won't close again like they did in November, because that really hurt a lot of people so much. I hope things will get better from today."

Japan will ease its strict virus border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday.

Japan will ease its strict virus border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday. The move comes with growing pressure on Japan from the business community and academics to loosen the border restrictions, which are the toughest in the G7 but have broad support from Japanese voters. Japan has barred tourists since the early days of the pandemic, and has in some cases prevented even existing foreign residents from entering the country. Also read | In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year Last November, the government slightly loosened the rules to allow some students and businesspeople to enter, but then quickly reversed the plan weeks later as the Omicron strain emerged. After an Omicron-driven spike in infections, cases in Japan now appear to have peaked, experts say. From March 1, Kishida said "we will allow new visitors, except those coming for tourism", adding that a cap on daily entrants will be raised to from the current 3,500 to 5,000. More than 400,000 people whose visas have already been approved by authorities were waiting to enter Japan as of January 4, an immigration agency official told AFP. More than 150,000 of those are students, with another 129,000 workers hired to take part in a technical training programme that is a key source of foreign labour for several industries in the country. While Japan has not pursued a zero-Covid policy and has avoided strict lockdowns, it has made tough border measures a centrepiece of its pandemic response. Also read | Russia says Japan is whipping up ‘hysteria’ in Kuril Islands row Even citizens and returning residents able to enter have been subject to quarantines of up to two weeks, with testing before and after entering the country. Kishida said quarantine requirements would now be eased, going from seven to three days, if arrivals test negative. Quarantine will be removed altogether for those with three vaccines doses coming from countries judged low-risk, he added, without specifying particular nations. Japan has recorded more than 20,950 deaths in the pandemic and polls show Japanese broadly favour the tough restrictions, with nearly 60 percent of respondents in a recent survey by public broadcaster NHK backing a continued ban on entry. Davide Rossi, an Italian entrepreneur living in Japan who campaigns for students stuck outside the country, said the news was a light at the end of the tunnel, and many now hope they can enter Japan before the new semester in April. Watch | Japan is set to announce easing of COVID-19 border curbs "There is a very high sense of urgency. People are really on the verge of quitting, but now, with this announcement, they have some hope," he told AFP. But he recalled the way the border restrictions were tightened in November, just weeks after being eased. "Hopefully this is a lesson, too, and the borders won't close again like they did in November, because that really hurt a lot of people so much. I hope things will get better from today."

COVID-19: Japan eases virus border rules for workers and students but tourists will still be barred

Japan is a country known for being seismically very active. The citizens suffer from earthquakes many times in a short span of few years. Now, scientists think an underground rocky mass the size of a mountain may be the cause of huge earthquakes in southern Japan.

Researchers have found the structure, called Kumano Pluton is beneath the coast of southern Japan. 3D visualisation of the Kumano Pluton has revealed that tectonic energy from megaquakes seems to be diverted to several points along its side.

"We cannot predict exactly when, where, or how large future earthquakes will be, but by combining our model with monitoring data, we can begin estimating near-future processes," says geophysicist Shuichi Kodaira of the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology in Japan. He was quoted by University of Texas at Austin website.

To understand true extent of the Kumano Pluton, scientists examined 20 years of seismic data. The painstaking work included millions of recordings from Japan network of seismic sensors.&nbsp;

The biggest ever seismic data set was then fed to LoneStar5 supercomputer at the university.

Kumano Pluton is very dense and rigid and researchers think it contributes to the tectonic activity that causes earthquakes

Huge earthquakes of more than 8 intensity have been observed to have originated on the flanks of the Pluton in 1944 and 1946. 
&nbsp;

Japan is a country known for being seismically very active. The citizens suffer from earthquakes many times in a short span of few years. Now, scientists think an underground rocky mass the size of a mountain may be the cause of huge earthquakes in southern Japan.

Japan is a country known for being seismically very active. The citizens suffer from earthquakes many times in a short span of few years. Now, scientists think an underground rocky mass the size of a mountain may be the cause of huge earthquakes in southern Japan. Researchers have found the structure, called Kumano Pluton is beneath the coast of southern Japan. 3D visualisation of the Kumano Pluton has revealed that tectonic energy from megaquakes seems to be diverted to several points along its side. "We cannot predict exactly when, where, or how large future earthquakes will be, but by combining our model with monitoring data, we can begin estimating near-future processes," says geophysicist Shuichi Kodaira of the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology in Japan. He was quoted by University of Texas at Austin website. To understand true extent of the Kumano Pluton, scientists examined 20 years of seismic data. The painstaking work included millions of recordings from Japan network of seismic sensors. The biggest ever seismic data set was then fed to LoneStar5 supercomputer at the university. Kumano Pluton is very dense and rigid and researchers think it contributes to the tectonic activity that causes earthquakes Huge earthquakes of more than 8 intensity have been observed to have originated on the flanks of the Pluton in 1944 and 1946.

Rock the size of mountain under Japan may be causing megaquakes 

Japan's services sector activity contracted at the fastest pace in five months in January in a sign business faced pressure from a record surge in new coronavirus infections due to the Omicron variant.

Japan's service sector shrinks amid Covid-19 surge

The Japanese capital Tokyo has reported more than 20,000 cases in a day denting the country's hope for riding out the Omicron surge. The is the highest number of daily infections ever since the start of the pandemic.

Japan: More than 20,000 daily covid-19 cases reported in Tokyo

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