The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxygen-on-moons-surface-may-keep-billions-alive-for-100000-years-428560" hreflang="en">Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years &nbsp;</a>

Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astronomers-identify-moons-small-chunk-tracking-earths-orbit-around-sun-428748" hreflang="en">Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun</a>

“Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover.

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Also Read: Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. Also Read: Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun “Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission.

Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Saito and five others are taking part in a lawsuit at the Tokyo District Court. It is due to rule on October 14 over the responsibility of the North Korean government for their ordeal. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Japan upgrades Q2 GDP, with help of solid expenditure

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Although plaintiffs are also demanding compensation from the Kim Jong-un government, Saito says her campaign is not about the money. &nbsp;

The escapee said, "We had been told we were going to paradise on Earth, that we would have our own apartment, jobs and that hospitals and schools were free. They told us we did not need to take anything with us, that everything would be provided. They kept repeating that it was paradise." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-teenager-sues-health-trust-for-almost-3-million-after-getting-swapped-at-birth-411580" hreflang="en">Spanish teenager sues health trust for almost $3 million after getting swapped at birth</a>

"Then we arrived and I saw the boy from the ship. He only had a tattered old shirt and nothing on the lower half of his body. He looked thin and poor. It was at that moment that I knew. I knew we had been deceived," 80-year-old Saito told DW. &nbsp;

At the arrival with hundreds of returnees and their families from Japan at Chongjin in 1961, Saito was greeted by poverty-stricken residents and heavily armed soldiers. The situation had worsened soon in the country. &nbsp;

After four decades of hunger, repression and violence, she was finally able to escape over the border into China and, ultimately, return to Japan in 2001.&nbsp;

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth".

After suffering starvation and repression for decades, Japanese national Hiroko Saito, who escaped North Korea, has sued the Kim Jong-un-led government. Saito says in the 1960s, she and 97,000 others were deceived into relocating to the North with promises of "paradise on Earth". Saito and five others are taking part in a lawsuit at the Tokyo District Court. It is due to rule on October 14 over the responsibility of the North Korean government for their ordeal. Watch: Japan upgrades Q2 GDP, with help of solid expenditure × Although plaintiffs are also demanding compensation from the Kim Jong-un government, Saito says her campaign is not about the money. The escapee said, "We had been told we were going to paradise on Earth, that we would have our own apartment, jobs and that hospitals and schools were free. They told us we did not need to take anything with us, that everything would be provided. They kept repeating that it was paradise." Also Read: Spanish teenager sues health trust for almost $3 million after getting swapped at birth "Then we arrived and I saw the boy from the ship. He only had a tattered old shirt and nothing on the lower half of his body. He looked thin and poor. It was at that moment that I knew. I knew we had been deceived," 80-year-old Saito told DW. At the arrival with hundreds of returnees and their families from Japan at Chongjin in 1961, Saito was greeted by poverty-stricken residents and heavily armed soldiers. The situation had worsened soon in the country. After four decades of hunger, repression and violence, she was finally able to escape over the border into China and, ultimately, return to Japan in 2001.

After decades of misery, Japanese escapee sues North Korean govt for ordeal

In a rare development, parents of newborn babies in Japan are sending bags of rice that weigh the same as their newborn babies to relatives who are unable to visit them due to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

The bags come in various designs. Some bags are shaped like a baby wrapped in a blanket so that relatives can feel as though they are hugging the new arrival while looking at a picture of their face, which has been attached in the front.

The amount of rice in the bag is matched to the newborn’s birth weight. Accordingly, the price increases in parallel with the size of the baby. Some firms charge one yen a gram, with a 3.5kg pack priced 3,500 yen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/am-iii-now-chinese-scientists-develop-glass-as-hard-as-a-diamond-will-it-be-used-for-weapons-404138">Also read |&nbsp;AM-III: Now, Chinese scientists develop glass as hard as a diamond; will it be used for weapons?</a>

Naruo Ono, the owner of Kome no Zoto Yoshimiya rice shop, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "I first had the idea about 14 years ago when my own son was born and I was thinking about what I could do for relatives who lived far away and couldn’t come and see him. So we decided to make bags of rice that were the same weight and shape as the baby, so relatives could hold them and feel the cuteness".

Ono further added, "In the case of the wedding celebration goods, the bride and groom give them to the respective parents with their pictures on them from when they were babies as a way of showing appreciation for giving birth to them".

In a rare development, parents of newborn babies in Japan are sending bags of rice that weigh the same as their newborn babies to relatives who are unable to visit them due to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

In a rare development, parents of newborn babies in Japan are sending bags of rice that weigh the same as their newborn babies to relatives who are unable to visit them due to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. The bags come in various designs. Some bags are shaped like a baby wrapped in a blanket so that relatives can feel as though they are hugging the new arrival while looking at a picture of their face, which has been attached in the front. The amount of rice in the bag is matched to the newborn’s birth weight. Accordingly, the price increases in parallel with the size of the baby. Some firms charge one yen a gram, with a 3.5kg pack priced 3,500 yen. Also read | AM-III: Now, Chinese scientists develop glass as hard as a diamond; will it be used for weapons? Naruo Ono, the owner of Kome no Zoto Yoshimiya rice shop, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "I first had the idea about 14 years ago when my own son was born and I was thinking about what I could do for relatives who lived far away and couldn’t come and see him. So we decided to make bags of rice that were the same weight and shape as the baby, so relatives could hold them and feel the cuteness". Ono further added, "In the case of the wedding celebration goods, the bride and groom give them to the respective parents with their pictures on them from when they were babies as a way of showing appreciation for giving birth to them".

Japanese parents are sending relatives rice bags in place of newborn babies to hug and bless

A Tokyo hotel has&nbsp;apologised&nbsp;and removed signs saying "Japanese only" and "foreigners only" from elevators after the anti-COVID-19 precaution sparked outrage on social media ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympics.&nbsp;

Tokyo entered a state of emergency on Monday amid concerns that an influx of tens of thousands of athletes and officials during the July 23-August 8 Games will spread the coronavirus, cases of which are already rising in the Japanese capital.&nbsp;

Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu in downtown Tokyo put up the signs on Friday in response to guidance from Tokyo 2020&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;to ensure the movements of guests related to the Games were separated from others staying at the hotel, a hotel official told Reuters on Monday.&nbsp;

The official, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject, said there was no intention to discriminate against foreigners.&nbsp;

"We tried to make it easy to understand but ended up causing misunderstanding," the official said. He said the signs were removed on Sunday morning and the hotel was now discussing with its headquarters what expression to use instead.&nbsp;

The signs triggered harsh criticism on social media, with one Twitter user tweeting "Apartheid has been revived in Japan".&nbsp;

Another likened the signs to US "Jim Crow" measures, since struck down by courts, designed to keep Blacks from voting in the US Deep South.&nbsp;

"The virus has nothing to do with nationality," tweeted Twitter user Anna.&nbsp;

Japan has not seen the explosive coronavirus outbreak seen elsewhere but has recorded more than 815,440 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths. Tokyo alone recorded 614 new cases on Sunday, the 22nd straight day of week-on-week gains.&nbsp;

Japan's vaccination rollout got off to a slow start and although it later accelerated, supply glitches are causing it to stumble. Only about 28% of the population have received at least one vaccine shot.&nbsp;

A Tokyo hotel has apologised and removed signs saying "Japanese only" and "foreigners only" from elevators after the anti-COVID-19 precaution sparked outrage on social media ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympics.

A Tokyo hotel has apologised and removed signs saying "Japanese only" and "foreigners only" from elevators after the anti-COVID-19 precaution sparked outrage on social media ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympics. Tokyo entered a state of emergency on Monday amid concerns that an influx of tens of thousands of athletes and officials during the July 23-August 8 Games will spread the coronavirus, cases of which are already rising in the Japanese capital. Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu in downtown Tokyo put up the signs on Friday in response to guidance from Tokyo 2020 organisers to ensure the movements of guests related to the Games were separated from others staying at the hotel, a hotel official told Reuters on Monday. The official, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject, said there was no intention to discriminate against foreigners. "We tried to make it easy to understand but ended up causing misunderstanding," the official said. He said the signs were removed on Sunday morning and the hotel was now discussing with its headquarters what expression to use instead. The signs triggered harsh criticism on social media, with one Twitter user tweeting "Apartheid has been revived in Japan". Another likened the signs to US "Jim Crow" measures, since struck down by courts, designed to keep Blacks from voting in the US Deep South. "The virus has nothing to do with nationality," tweeted Twitter user Anna. Japan has not seen the explosive coronavirus outbreak seen elsewhere but has recorded more than 815,440 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths. Tokyo alone recorded 614 new cases on Sunday, the 22nd straight day of week-on-week gains. Japan's vaccination rollout got off to a slow start and although it later accelerated, supply glitches are causing it to stumble. Only about 28% of the population have received at least one vaccine shot.

Tokyo hotel apologises for 'Japanese only' elevator signs 

Japanese chemist Ei-ichi Negishi who won the Nobel prize for developing a method for creating complex chemicals necessary for manufacturing drugs and electronics has died aged 85, his US university said.

Negishi died on Sunday in Indianapolis, Purdue University said in a statement on Friday, adding his family would lay him to rest in Japan sometime next year.

The Manchuria-born scientist graduated from the prestigious University of Tokyo and worked at Japanese chemical giant Teijin before going to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship in 1960 to study chemistry. He joined the Purdue faculty in 1979.

In 2010, he won the Nobel Prize for chemistry along with Richard Heck of the University&nbsp;of Delaware and Akira Suzuki of Hokkaido University.

Through the trio's work, organic chemistry has developed into "an art form, where scientists produce marvelous chemical creations in their test tubes," the award citation said.

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Heck laid the groundwork for bonding carbon atoms by using a catalyzer to promote the process in the 1960s.

Negishi fine-tuned it in 1977 and it was taken a step further by Suzuki, who found a practical way to carry out the process.

Negishi likened their work to playing with Lego building blocks.

"We found catalysts and created reactions that allow complex organic compounds to, in effect, snap together with other compounds to more economically and efficiently build desired materials," he was quoted as saying in the university statement.

"Legos can be combined to make things&nbsp;of any shape, size, and color, and our reactions make this a possibility for organic compounds."

According to Purdue, their work is widely used, from fluorescent marking essential for DNA sequencing to agricultural chemicals&nbsp;that protect crops from fungi to&nbsp;materials for thin LED displays.

"The world lost a great and gracious man -— one who made a difference in lives as a scientist and a human being," Purdue President Mitch Daniels said.

"We're saddened by Dr. Negishi's passing but grateful for his world-changing discoveries and the lives he touched and influenced as a Purdue professor."

Japanese chemist Ei-ichi Negishi who won the Nobel prize for developing a method for creating complex chemicals necessary for manufacturing drugs and electronics has died aged 85, his US university said.

Japanese chemist Ei-ichi Negishi who won the Nobel prize for developing a method for creating complex chemicals necessary for manufacturing drugs and electronics has died aged 85, his US university said. Negishi died on Sunday in Indianapolis, Purdue University said in a statement on Friday, adding his family would lay him to rest in Japan sometime next year. The Manchuria-born scientist graduated from the prestigious University of Tokyo and worked at Japanese chemical giant Teijin before going to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship in 1960 to study chemistry. He joined the Purdue faculty in 1979. In 2010, he won the Nobel Prize for chemistry along with Richard Heck of the University of Delaware and Akira Suzuki of Hokkaido University. Through the trio's work, organic chemistry has developed into "an art form, where scientists produce marvelous chemical creations in their test tubes," the award citation said. Also Read | Hong Kong democracy activist Agnes Chow released from prison Heck laid the groundwork for bonding carbon atoms by using a catalyzer to promote the process in the 1960s. Negishi fine-tuned it in 1977 and it was taken a step further by Suzuki, who found a practical way to carry out the process. Negishi likened their work to playing with Lego building blocks. "We found catalysts and created reactions that allow complex organic compounds to, in effect, snap together with other compounds to more economically and efficiently build desired materials," he was quoted as saying in the university statement. "Legos can be combined to make things of any shape, size, and color, and our reactions make this a possibility for organic compounds." According to Purdue, their work is widely used, from fluorescent marking essential for DNA sequencing to agricultural chemicals that protect crops from fungi to materials for thin LED displays. "The world lost a great and gracious man -— one who made a difference in lives as a scientist and a human being," Purdue President Mitch Daniels said. "We're saddened by Dr. Negishi's passing but grateful for his world-changing discoveries and the lives he touched and influenced as a Purdue professor."

Nobel-winning Japanese chemist, Ei-ichi Negishi, dies at 85

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;

The latest survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency on Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of virus infections.&nbsp;

The surge has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout.&nbsp;

The weekend survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement.&nbsp;

Those figures are up from 35 per cent, who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent, who wanted a further delay.&nbsp;

Only 14 per cent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 per cent, according to the poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls.&nbsp;

If the Games do go ahead, 59 per cent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 per cent backing lower fan numbers and three per cent a regular capacity Games.&nbsp;

For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer.&nbsp;

A separate poll by Kyodo News published on Sunday showed 59.7 per cent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option.&nbsp;

Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe.&nbsp;

But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus.&nbsp;

Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner".&nbsp;

"We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services.&nbsp;

Japan has seen a smaller virus outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for a comparatively slow vaccine rollout.&nbsp;

The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll published on Monday showed, less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games. The latest survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency on Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of virus infections. The surge has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout. The weekend survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement. Those figures are up from 35 per cent, who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent, who wanted a further delay. Only 14 per cent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 per cent, according to the poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls. If the Games do go ahead, 59 per cent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 per cent backing lower fan numbers and three per cent a regular capacity Games. For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer. A separate poll by Kyodo News published on Sunday showed 59.7 per cent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option. Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe. But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus. Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner". "We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services. Japan has seen a smaller virus outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for a comparatively slow vaccine rollout. The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 80 per cent Japanese oppose Olympics this summer: Poll 

Tokyo Olympics are nearly 100 days away and according to a poll more than 70% of people in Japan want the games to be canceled or delayed as the Coronavirus pandemic rolls on.

Poll: 70% of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to be delayed or cancelled

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings

In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers. Only two of the party’s 12-member board members are women. In addition, only three of its 25-member general council members are women.

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Recently, sexist comments by former Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori sparked outrage, putting focus on gender disparity in the country.

As part of this move, female LDP members would be allowed to see how the decisions are made during key meetings. The party’s Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai said that he has heard criticism about the party's elected board being dominated by men.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-appoints-minister-of-loneliness-to-fight-pandemic-driven-isolation-364026" hreflang="en">Japan appoints 'Minister of Loneliness' to fight pandemic-driven isolation</a>

"It is important to fully understand what kind of discussions are happening," he said during a news conference on Tuesday. "Take a look, is what it is about”, he added. 
 
The observing women would not be allowed to speak during the meetings, but may submit their opinions separately to the secretariat office, as reported by Nikkei newspaper.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/60-percent-say-yoshiro-mori-unfit-to-serve-as-tokyo-2020-chief-japan-poll-361981" hreflang="en">60 percent say Yoshiro Mori unfit to serve as Tokyo 2020 chief: Japan poll</a>

Out of the 153 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Global Gender Gap Index, Japan is ranked 121, making it among the worst-performing economically advanced countries. The country has scored poorly on women’s participation in the economy, as well as in terms of political empowerment.

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers.

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers. Only two of the party’s 12-member board members are women. In addition, only three of its 25-member general council members are women. Recently, sexist comments by former Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori sparked outrage, putting focus on gender disparity in the country. As part of this move, female LDP members would be allowed to see how the decisions are made during key meetings. The party’s Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai said that he has heard criticism about the party's elected board being dominated by men. Also read: Japan appoints 'Minister of Loneliness' to fight pandemic-driven isolation "It is important to fully understand what kind of discussions are happening," he said during a news conference on Tuesday. "Take a look, is what it is about”, he added. The observing women would not be allowed to speak during the meetings, but may submit their opinions separately to the secretariat office, as reported by Nikkei newspaper. Also read: 60 percent say Yoshiro Mori unfit to serve as Tokyo 2020 chief: Japan poll Out of the 153 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Global Gender Gap Index, Japan is ranked 121, making it among the worst-performing economically advanced countries. The country has scored poorly on women’s participation in the economy, as well as in terms of political empowerment.

Japan's ruling party will allow women to attend meetings, as long as they don't talk

Studio Ghibli, home of the masters of Japanese animated film, has decided to take the plunge into 3D under the direction of founder Hayao Miyazaki's son Goro -- though he is far from ready to put away his coloured pencils.

With the same smiling round face and the same taste for the fantastical as his father, the 54-year-old is coming out of the shadows with "Earwig and the Witch", due to go online as part of the Gerardmer Fantasy Film Festival kicking off on Wednesday.

The film, originally scheduled to premiere at the 2020 Cannes Film Festival and launched instead at the Lumiere event in Lyon, is the story of an impish orphan girl adopted by a witch and befriended by a black cat.

It has the unmistakable Miyazaki imprint, but fans of Hayao Miyazaki standouts like "My Neighbour Totoro" and "Howl's Moving Castle" may be thrown off balance by the colder effect of 3D.

For a studio acclaimed for the visual harmony of its creations, the leap is a gamble, Goro admits, aware of the risk of disappointing a fan base going back more than 30 years. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/studio-ghibli-the-real-magic-from-the-east-that-disney-can-never-create-326558">Studio Ghibli: The real magic from the east that Disney can never create</a>

Even so, he says his perfectionist 80-year-old father, sometimes called the Japanese Walt Disney for the power of his imagination, has given him a "free rein".

"He hardly commented at all during the production," Goro told AFP in an interview. "He stopped by regularly to check on it (but) given the technological differences with traditional animation, he had no frame of reference. It's not his medium."

- 'Neighbourhood workshop' -

The move into 3D is by no means "entering into some kind of competition" with the American animated film giants with their vast technical and financial resources, Goro says.

"You could liken big American productions to Tesla electric cars, while what we are trying to do is create an electrically assisted bike for getting around town," he says, noting: "There are landscapes that you can see only thanks to this slower pace of a bicycle."

Despite Studio Ghibli's international fame, "we are neither a big studio nor a big company, more like a neighbourhood workshop, a little creative place," he says. "I don't think we can plan on a generational change as people expect."

While computer graphics offer "a new possibility for the future", traditionalists can rest assured that "drawing on paper, the traditional animation like my father's, will continue at the studio," says the creator of "Tales from Earthsea" (2006) and "From up on Poppy Hill" (2011).

The question of succeeding the master who founded Studio Ghibli in 1985 and won the 2003 Oscar for best animated film with "Spirited Away" has not been settled.

Some talented creators have died, while others have founded their own studios.

Goro marvels at his father's "still intact capacity for imagination" and predicts he could still be at work for another decade.

Eight years after his last work "The Wind Rises", the older Miyazaki is still working on "pretty touching project", Goro says, without elaborating.

Hayao Miyazaki "has got into the habit of retiring only to change his mind a fair number of times in the past," Goro says. "I may retire before him!"

fbe/fmp/uh/gd/kjl

Studio Ghibli, home of the masters of Japanese animated film, has decided to take the plunge into 3D under the direction of founder Hayao Miyazaki's son Goro -- though he is far from ready to put away his coloured pencils.

Studio Ghibli, home of the masters of Japanese animated film, has decided to take the plunge into 3D under the direction of founder Hayao Miyazaki's son Goro -- though he is far from ready to put away his coloured pencils. With the same smiling round face and the same taste for the fantastical as his father, the 54-year-old is coming out of the shadows with "Earwig and the Witch", due to go online as part of the Gerardmer Fantasy Film Festival kicking off on Wednesday. The film, originally scheduled to premiere at the 2020 Cannes Film Festival and launched instead at the Lumiere event in Lyon, is the story of an impish orphan girl adopted by a witch and befriended by a black cat. It has the unmistakable Miyazaki imprint, but fans of Hayao Miyazaki standouts like "My Neighbour Totoro" and "Howl's Moving Castle" may be thrown off balance by the colder effect of 3D. For a studio acclaimed for the visual harmony of its creations, the leap is a gamble, Goro admits, aware of the risk of disappointing a fan base going back more than 30 years. Studio Ghibli: The real magic from the east that Disney can never create Even so, he says his perfectionist 80-year-old father, sometimes called the Japanese Walt Disney for the power of his imagination, has given him a "free rein". "He hardly commented at all during the production," Goro told AFP in an interview. "He stopped by regularly to check on it (but) given the technological differences with traditional animation, he had no frame of reference. It's not his medium." - 'Neighbourhood workshop' - The move into 3D is by no means "entering into some kind of competition" with the American animated film giants with their vast technical and financial resources, Goro says. "You could liken big American productions to Tesla electric cars, while what we are trying to do is create an electrically assisted bike for getting around town," he says, noting: "There are landscapes that you can see only thanks to this slower pace of a bicycle." Despite Studio Ghibli's international fame, "we are neither a big studio nor a big company, more like a neighbourhood workshop, a little creative place," he says. "I don't think we can plan on a generational change as people expect." While computer graphics offer "a new possibility for the future", traditionalists can rest assured that "drawing on paper, the traditional animation like my father's, will continue at the studio," says the creator of "Tales from Earthsea" (2006) and "From up on Poppy Hill" (2011). The question of succeeding the master who founded Studio Ghibli in 1985 and won the 2003 Oscar for best animated film with "Spirited Away" has not been settled. Some talented creators have died, while others have founded their own studios. Goro marvels at his father's "still intact capacity for imagination" and predicts he could still be at work for another decade. Eight years after his last work "The Wind Rises", the older Miyazaki is still working on "pretty touching project", Goro says, without elaborating. Hayao Miyazaki "has got into the habit of retiring only to change his mind a fair number of times in the past," Goro says. "I may retire before him!" fbe/fmp/uh/gd/kjl

Studio Ghibli legacy: In Miyazaki's shadow, son Goro breaks out into 3D animation

As Tokyo entered its second state of emergency on Friday (January 8), less than 200 days before the start of the postponed Olympics, many believe it will be difficult, perhaps impossible, to host the Games safely.

"It's impossible" - Japanese concerned over prospects of hosting Games

Suicides in Japan rose for the fourth month in a row, according to police data. After the four month run upto October, the number of suicides are now at the highest level in the country in over five years. According to activists, the coronavirus-induced economic slowdown is to be blamed for this. Women in particular remain affected.&nbsp;

Reuters reported that preliminary police data showed that the total number of suicides had increased to 2,153 for October. This marks an increase of over 300 from the previous month. Additionally, it represents the highest number of suicides in the country since May 2015.

For women, the number of suicide cases rose by 82.6 per cent. They accounted for 851 suicides. For men, the increase was 21.3 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-announces-deadline-for-attaining-zero-emissions-carbon-neutral-society-337953" hreflang="en">Japan announces deadline for attaining zero-emissions, carbon neutral society</a>

Cases of suicide in Japan had been declining until July, when the effects of the coronavirus on the economy became more prominent. Due to the pandemic, businesses were shut, and millions across the globe were asked to stay in by their governments. Owing to this, economic hardships rose for many.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-to-worsen-japans-suicide-rate-302298/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Women have more chances of being employed in non-permanent situations, for instance in retail or service jobs. And they have been disproportionately affected by loss of livelihood.

Culturally, in Japan, suicide is seen as a way to avoid shame and dishonour.

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Additionally, seeking help for one’s ailments was stigmatised in Japan for long. The country has the highest rate of suicide among G7 nations.

In 2007, the country launched a suicide prevention programme to stem deaths caused by suicide. This was triggered by the 2003 suicide numbers in the country, whereby 34,427 people killed themselves.

Putting proactive measures in motion, and by identifying groups at the highest risk of suicide, the country was able to lower the rate of suicide among its citizens. In 2019, the the numbers were down to 20,000.

Suicides in Japan rose for the fourth month in a row, according to police data. After the four month run upto October, the number of suicides are now at the highest level in the country in over five years.

Suicides in Japan rose for the fourth month in a row, according to police data. After the four month run upto October, the number of suicides are now at the highest level in the country in over five years. According to activists, the coronavirus-induced economic slowdown is to be blamed for this. Women in particular remain affected. Reuters reported that preliminary police data showed that the total number of suicides had increased to 2,153 for October. This marks an increase of over 300 from the previous month. Additionally, it represents the highest number of suicides in the country since May 2015. For women, the number of suicide cases rose by 82.6 per cent. They accounted for 851 suicides. For men, the increase was 21.3 per cent. Also read: Japan announces deadline for attaining zero-emissions, carbon neutral society Cases of suicide in Japan had been declining until July, when the effects of the coronavirus on the economy became more prominent. Due to the pandemic, businesses were shut, and millions across the globe were asked to stay in by their governments. Owing to this, economic hardships rose for many. Women have more chances of being employed in non-permanent situations, for instance in retail or service jobs. And they have been disproportionately affected by loss of livelihood. Culturally, in Japan, suicide is seen as a way to avoid shame and dishonour. Also read: Now, Japanese man in Nara develops 'edible' plastic bag to save deer population Additionally, seeking help for one’s ailments was stigmatised in Japan for long. The country has the highest rate of suicide among G7 nations. In 2007, the country launched a suicide prevention programme to stem deaths caused by suicide. This was triggered by the 2003 suicide numbers in the country, whereby 34,427 people killed themselves. Putting proactive measures in motion, and by identifying groups at the highest risk of suicide, the country was able to lower the rate of suicide among its citizens. In 2019, the the numbers were down to 20,000.

Japan: Suicides up to highest level in 5 years due to coronavirus-related economic woes

A Japanese company has announced the successful test drive of a manned flying car.

Sky Drive Inc. conducted the public demonstration on August 25 at the Toyota Test Field. It was the first public demonstration for a flying car in Japanese history, the company said in a news release.

The car, named SD-03, manned with a pilot, took off and circled the field for about four minutes. No price has been announced.

The SD-03 is the world's smallest electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle and takes up the space of about two parked cars, according to the company. It has eight motors to ensure safety in emergency situations.

The car will be tested outside of the Toyota Test field by the end of the year.

The company will continue to develop technologies to safely and securely launch the flying car in 2023, the news release said.&nbsp;

A Japanese company has announced the successful test drive of a manned flying car. Sky Drive Inc. conducted the public demonstration on August 25 at the Toyota Test Field.

A Japanese company has announced the successful test drive of a manned flying car. Sky Drive Inc. conducted the public demonstration on August 25 at the Toyota Test Field. It was the first public demonstration for a flying car in Japanese history, the company said in a news release. The car, named SD-03, manned with a pilot, took off and circled the field for about four minutes. No price has been announced. The SD-03 is the world's smallest electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle and takes up the space of about two parked cars, according to the company. It has eight motors to ensure safety in emergency situations. The car will be tested outside of the Toyota Test field by the end of the year. The company will continue to develop technologies to safely and securely launch the flying car in 2023, the news release said.

Japanese company tests a manned flying car for the first time

Japan's National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), National Museum of Nature and Science, and Kochi University have discovered a new species of sea worms.

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They found the new species while collecting specimens from the seafloor at depths of 2,036 to 2,479 meters, in the South Orkney Islands in the Southern Ocean and while looking at them under a microscope and photographed them with a high-resolution digital camera where they noticed the new sea worm. The biologists have named the new sea worm, 'Flabelligena Gillet 2001'.

The biologists have published their research in Biodiversity Data Journal in June.&nbsp;

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According to the biologists, the new species of worm is one of the six species of Flabelligena. it is a part of a class of worms called polychaetes, which contains over 10,000 species. 'Flabelligena Gillet 2001' live in sandy mud areas, mainly in underwater at 1,000 meters and deeper.

"Polychaetes are one of the most diverse groups in marine benthic animals and well-studied in the Southern Ocean," research team leader Naoto Jimi said in a statement on August 12."Many researchers have investigated the Southern Ocean, but our knowledge of small deep-sea invertebrates is still quite limited."

Japan's National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), National Museum of Nature and Science, and Kochi University have discovered a new species of sea worms. Also read: This is when the universe will end!

Japan's National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), National Museum of Nature and Science, and Kochi University have discovered a new species of sea worms. Also read: This is when the universe will end! They found the new species while collecting specimens from the seafloor at depths of 2,036 to 2,479 meters, in the South Orkney Islands in the Southern Ocean and while looking at them under a microscope and photographed them with a high-resolution digital camera where they noticed the new sea worm. The biologists have named the new sea worm, 'Flabelligena Gillet 2001'. The biologists have published their research in Biodiversity Data Journal in June. Also read: Use of Marijuana during pregnancy could risk autism in babies: Study According to the biologists, the new species of worm is one of the six species of Flabelligena. it is a part of a class of worms called polychaetes, which contains over 10,000 species. 'Flabelligena Gillet 2001' live in sandy mud areas, mainly in underwater at 1,000 meters and deeper. "Polychaetes are one of the most diverse groups in marine benthic animals and well-studied in the Southern Ocean," research team leader Naoto Jimi said in a statement on August 12."Many researchers have investigated the Southern Ocean, but our knowledge of small deep-sea invertebrates is still quite limited."

'Flabelligena Gillet 2001': Japanese biologists discover new species of sea worms

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe underwent a medical check-up in hospital on Monday, a government source said, amid concern voiced by a top official that the premier was suffering from fatigue from handling the coronavirus pandemic.

Abe,&nbsp;Japan's longest-serving prime minister, left hospital after the examination, Jiji news agency said.

He had the check-up at Tokyo's Keio University Hospital, the source familiar with the situation told Reuters.&nbsp;

Health Minister Katsunobu Kato, a close aide to the premier, said he understood it was a regular check-up and he was "not at all" worried about Abe's health.

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"All I know is from media reports. And I understand it was reported as a regular check-up," Kato told reporters.

Abe gets a regular check-up twice a year, with his most recent on June 13, Kyodo news agency said, adding that Monday's visit was a follow-up to the June check-up, citing a hospital source.

Abe's office did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment.

The news follows weekend comments by Akira Amari, chairman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's tax panel, that Abe, 65, could be suffering from fatigue because of his continuous work over the response to the virus.

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"I want him to take a break," Amari told a Fuji TV news programme on Sunday. "He has a strong sense of responsibility and feels it's wrong to take a break."

Abe, in office since 2012 in his second stint as prime minister, resigned from his first term in 2007 because of struggles with ulcerative colitis, which he now keeps under control with medication that was not previously available.

Japanese media have speculated about Abe's health this month, including detailed reports on Abe's walking speed. Weekly magazine Flash said Abe had vomited blood at his office on July 6. Reuters was unable to verify the report.

"I see the prime minister every day, and I think he has no (health) problems at all, as he has been carrying out his duties smoothly," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told an Aug. 5 news conference in response to questions following the report.

Abe has discharged regular duties in recent weeks and was last seen in public on Saturday, at a Tokyo ceremony commemorating&nbsp;Japan's World War Two defeat.

While there are no reports that he is unable to perform his duties, should that be the case, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, would take over.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe underwent a medical check-up in hospital on Monday, a government source said, amid concern voiced by a top official that the premier was suffering from fatigue from handling the coronavirus pandemic.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe underwent a medical check-up in hospital on Monday, a government source said, amid concern voiced by a top official that the premier was suffering from fatigue from handling the coronavirus pandemic. Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, left hospital after the examination, Jiji news agency said. He had the check-up at Tokyo's Keio University Hospital, the source familiar with the situation told Reuters. Health Minister Katsunobu Kato, a close aide to the premier, said he understood it was a regular check-up and he was "not at all" worried about Abe's health. Also read: Japan's PM Shinzo Abe goes for check-up after coronavirus work piles on "All I know is from media reports. And I understand it was reported as a regular check-up," Kato told reporters. Abe gets a regular check-up twice a year, with his most recent on June 13, Kyodo news agency said, adding that Monday's visit was a follow-up to the June check-up, citing a hospital source. Abe's office did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment. The news follows weekend comments by Akira Amari, chairman of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's tax panel, that Abe, 65, could be suffering from fatigue because of his continuous work over the response to the virus. Also read: 'Comfort woman' row: Japan warns South Korea against Abe's statue "I want him to take a break," Amari told a Fuji TV news programme on Sunday. "He has a strong sense of responsibility and feels it's wrong to take a break." Abe, in office since 2012 in his second stint as prime minister, resigned from his first term in 2007 because of struggles with ulcerative colitis, which he now keeps under control with medication that was not previously available. Japanese media have speculated about Abe's health this month, including detailed reports on Abe's walking speed. Weekly magazine Flash said Abe had vomited blood at his office on July 6. Reuters was unable to verify the report. "I see the prime minister every day, and I think he has no (health) problems at all, as he has been carrying out his duties smoothly," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told an Aug. 5 news conference in response to questions following the report. Abe has discharged regular duties in recent weeks and was last seen in public on Saturday, at a Tokyo ceremony commemorating Japan's World War Two defeat. While there are no reports that he is unable to perform his duties, should that be the case, Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, who doubles as finance minister, would take over.

Japan PM leaves hospital after check-up amid health concerns

The depiction of Mongols as invaders in a new PlayStation 4 game has stirred furore in China, and has sparked debates around nationalism in the country.

The game titled "Ghost of Tsushima"&nbsp;has received backlash online. Based in 13th century, the game depicts Mongol invasion of Japan, and shows the former as vicious foreign invaders.

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The Japanese, on the other hand, are shown as heroes defending their own country. The game is set on the island of “Tsushima”.

Game creates ripples in China

The titular character, Jin Sakai, travels through Japan preying on Mongols, and engages in physical altercations with them.

Even though the game is set far off from China, people in the country have expressed disapproval of the game’s depiction.

This is what the game looks like:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ghost Of Tsushima's PHOTO MODE is pretty cool, especially with how AMAZING the open world looks like. 
 
Here are my favorite scenic shots that I took. 
 
It also helps me practice my Compositions for IRL, hahaha! 📸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GhostsofTsushima?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GhostsofTsushima</a> <a href="https://t.co/5cr4XyFVOq">pic.twitter.com/5cr4XyFVOq</a>
— GLOCO🎣🎮 (@GLOCOgaming) <a href="https://twitter.com/GLOCOgaming/status/1285508810409312258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, Mongols have played a considerable role in the history of China. They became the first ethnic group besides the Han Chinese to take control over the country and maintaining it for over a century.

The Chinese critics believe that Mongols who occupied China should be now considered&nbsp; Chinese.

Japan is largely perceived as enemy territory for it had invaded China before World War 2.

Users get in!

As reported by the South China Morning Post, a user extended his support to the Mongols on Chinese iteration of YouTube called Bilibili. The user also referred to the Japanese with a slur.

“I stand with the Mongols, [slur for Japanese] can crawl”, it roughly translated into.

Another user on a Chinese content portal called Zhihu observed how this remains a plot where the Japanese are murdering Chinese.

“This is a game where the Japanese are killing Chinese. Mongols are one of the nomadic groups of north China. Very much like the Han Chinese, they are”, this one said.

Many users rang in a nationalist rhetoric and urged Chinese people to not play the game, and leave it to the foreigners. “Chinese shouldn’t join in on the fun”, a user said.

Many don't agree

Some gamers were also quick to mocking such observations, saying they saw nothing problematic with the plot construction of the game.

Read what one user on Twitter had to say

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It seems that some people are really trying to find reasons to hate on Ghost of Tsushima. Probably because you can’t release anything these days without someone trying to create controversy where there isn’t any. It’s a samurai action game. It’s not that deep.
— Oliver Jia (オリバー・ジア) (@OliverJia1014) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliverJia1014/status/1283800730764103681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The furore has also been mocked on Japanese portals. For instance:

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Ghost of Tsushima "controversy" gets openly mocked by the people of Japan on multiple Japanese websites hahah<a href="https://t.co/jMJx4sWHcV">https://t.co/jMJx4sWHcV</a> <a href="https://t.co/5KoOc7rJ53">pic.twitter.com/5KoOc7rJ53</a>
— HeroHei (@_Hero_Hei_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Hero_Hei_/status/1284219831470845952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A user on Zhihu wrote, “the war [during that time] was the general form of aggression”, while saying all kinds of invasion is wrong. The right thing to do is to resist, the user further suggested, while referring to them as basic moral concepts.

One attempted to straighten out the scenario by saying that both sides’ invasion of each other was wrong, while adding “we should hate all such war acts” instead of targetting just the Japanese people.

The depiction of Mongols as invaders in a new PlayStation 4 game has stirred furore in China, and has sparked debates around nationalism in the country. The game titled "Ghost of Tsushima" has received backlash online.

The depiction of Mongols as invaders in a new PlayStation 4 game has stirred furore in China, and has sparked debates around nationalism in the country. The game titled "Ghost of Tsushima" has received backlash online. Based in 13th century, the game depicts Mongol invasion of Japan, and shows the former as vicious foreign invaders. Also read: Elon Musk's upcoming 'Neuralink' will let you beam music directly into the brain The Japanese, on the other hand, are shown as heroes defending their own country. The game is set on the island of “Tsushima”. Game creates ripples in China The titular character, Jin Sakai, travels through Japan preying on Mongols, and engages in physical altercations with them. Even though the game is set far off from China, people in the country have expressed disapproval of the game’s depiction. This is what the game looks like: Ghost Of Tsushima's PHOTO MODE is pretty cool, especially with how AMAZING the open world looks like. Here are my favorite scenic shots that I took. It also helps me practice my Compositions for IRL, hahaha! 📸#GhostsofTsushima pic.twitter.com/5cr4XyFVOq — GLOCO🎣🎮 (@GLOCOgaming) July 21, 2020 × However, Mongols have played a considerable role in the history of China. They became the first ethnic group besides the Han Chinese to take control over the country and maintaining it for over a century. The Chinese critics believe that Mongols who occupied China should be now considered Chinese. Japan is largely perceived as enemy territory for it had invaded China before World War 2. Users get in! As reported by the South China Morning Post, a user extended his support to the Mongols on Chinese iteration of YouTube called Bilibili. The user also referred to the Japanese with a slur. “I stand with the Mongols, [slur for Japanese] can crawl”, it roughly translated into. Another user on a Chinese content portal called Zhihu observed how this remains a plot where the Japanese are murdering Chinese. “This is a game where the Japanese are killing Chinese. Mongols are one of the nomadic groups of north China. Very much like the Han Chinese, they are”, this one said. Many users rang in a nationalist rhetoric and urged Chinese people to not play the game, and leave it to the foreigners. “Chinese shouldn’t join in on the fun”, a user said. Many don't agree Some gamers were also quick to mocking such observations, saying they saw nothing problematic with the plot construction of the game. Read what one user on Twitter had to say It seems that some people are really trying to find reasons to hate on Ghost of Tsushima. Probably because you can’t release anything these days without someone trying to create controversy where there isn’t any. It’s a samurai action game. It’s not that deep. — Oliver Jia (オリバー・ジア) (@OliverJia1014) July 16, 2020 × The furore has also been mocked on Japanese portals. For instance: Ghost of Tsushima "controversy" gets openly mocked by the people of Japan on multiple Japanese websites hahahhttps://t.co/jMJx4sWHcV pic.twitter.com/5KoOc7rJ53 — HeroHei (@_Hero_Hei_) July 17, 2020 × A user on Zhihu wrote, “the war [during that time] was the general form of aggression”, while saying all kinds of invasion is wrong. The right thing to do is to resist, the user further suggested, while referring to them as basic moral concepts. One attempted to straighten out the scenario by saying that both sides’ invasion of each other was wrong, while adding “we should hate all such war acts” instead of targetting just the Japanese people.

PS4 game depicting Mongols as invaders stirs furore on Chinese portals

An online drinking party service has gained popularity after the Japanese government urged people to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Japanese online drinking party service becomes sensational hit amid virus lockdown

Japanese social media celebrity Pikotaro returned as a leading twitter trend in Japan with a coronavirus handwashing song that repurposes his signature Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen (PPAP) to Pray-for-People-and-Peace.

Watch: Gloria Gaynor fights coronavirus with ‘I Will Survive’ music video 
 
The video was among the top five in a Twitter trend ranking in Japan on Monday.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WKfolJv6Kx8" width="560"></iframe>

Pikotaro, whose real name is Kazuhito Kosaka, wore the same gold animal print outfit he wore in PPAP video that went viral in 2016. 
 
His hand-washing video, shorter than the 2016 two minutes hit that the Guinness World Record listed as the shortest song to make it into the Billboard Hot 100 chart, had also been viewed a quarter of a million times on Youtube since it was uploaded on Saturday.

Japanese social media celebrity Pikotaro returned as a leading twitter trend in Japan with a coronavirus handwashing song that repurposes his signature Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen (PPAP) to Pray-for-People-and-Peace.

Japanese social media celebrity Pikotaro returned as a leading twitter trend in Japan with a coronavirus handwashing song that repurposes his signature Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen (PPAP) to Pray-for-People-and-Peace. Watch: Gloria Gaynor fights coronavirus with ‘I Will Survive’ music video The video was among the top five in a Twitter trend ranking in Japan on Monday. Pikotaro, whose real name is Kazuhito Kosaka, wore the same gold animal print outfit he wore in PPAP video that went viral in 2016. His hand-washing video, shorter than the 2016 two minutes hit that the Guinness World Record listed as the shortest song to make it into the Billboard Hot 100 chart, had also been viewed a quarter of a million times on Youtube since it was uploaded on Saturday.

Japanese celebrity Pikotaro redesigns signature song as hand washing melody

Whirling, spinning, reaching and flexing - Japanese wheelchair dancer Kenta Kambara's emotive performances are wordless testimony to artistic passion and possibility.

Paralympic wheelchair dancer aims to perform at Tokyo Olympic games

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two.

South Korea's curbs, which will take effect on Monday, also include special entry procedures for non-Japanese foreigners arriving from Japan, Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young told a briefing.

At present, the Japanese can visit South Korea for 90 days without a visa and those already in the country will be allowed to stay for that period.

The Korean moves came just hours after Seoul summoned the Japanese envoy to protest against Japan's decision to quarantine South Korean visitors for two weeks.

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Japan is among almost 100 countries to impose curbs on travellers from South Korea, which has suffered 44 deaths and 6,593 infections in the biggest outbreak outside China, where the virus emerged late last year.

The number of coronavirus cases in Japan stood at around 1,060 on Friday, with new infections reported from Yamaguchi prefecture in the southwest to Hokkaido in the north, according to national broadcaster NHK.

Japan has barred entry to visitors from highly affected areas in South Korea and ordered two weeks' quarantine for others.

"If the Japanese government does not withdraw their decision...we cannot help but devise necessary countermeasures, including reciprocal measures," South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha told Japanese Ambassador Koji Tomita earlier in the day.

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"We express deep regret towards the unjust measures taken by the Japanese government."

Japanese Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters in Tokyo that the quarantine instructions, which would also apply to visitors from China, would take the form of a request for them to stay in their hotels.

"We'll do everything to make sure people understand," he said.

Seoul has protested to Southeast Asian neighbours Singapore and Vietnam over similar curbs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-total-number-of-coronavirus-jumps-to-over-5700-284425">South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700</a>

Tokyo faced "mistrust from the international community due to its opaque, passive" response to the virus outbreak, South Korea's National Security Council said after a meeting at the presidential Blue House earlier in the day.

The rapid spread of the disease has raised doubts about whether Tokyo will be able to host the Olympics this summer, but the government has insisted that the Games will go ahead as scheduled.

The number of new cases of the virus fell to 505 in South Korea on Friday, from 760 the previous day, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.

Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said authorities had almost finished tests on more than 200,000 followers of a church in southeastern Daegu at the centre of the outbreak.

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More than 90% of South Korea's infections were in Daegu and nearby North Gyeongsang province. Smaller clusters elsewhere include a new one reported on Friday at a hospital in Seongnam, southeast of the capital.

The number of South Korean visitors to Japan fell nearly 26% last year to 5.6 million, the first drop since Japan's tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011, Japanese tourism officials say.

Difficult relations between Japan and South Korea date from the former's sometimes brutal occupation of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Japan's use of Korean girls and women in military brothels during World War Two still prompts fury in South Korea.

Last year, Tokyo slapped trade curbs on South Korea, which responded with a boycott on Japanese goods and services.

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two.

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two. South Korea's curbs, which will take effect on Monday, also include special entry procedures for non-Japanese foreigners arriving from Japan, Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young told a briefing. At present, the Japanese can visit South Korea for 90 days without a visa and those already in the country will be allowed to stay for that period. The Korean moves came just hours after Seoul summoned the Japanese envoy to protest against Japan's decision to quarantine South Korean visitors for two weeks. Also read: Coronavirus weighs on South Korea February trade; ministry says worse to come Japan is among almost 100 countries to impose curbs on travellers from South Korea, which has suffered 44 deaths and 6,593 infections in the biggest outbreak outside China, where the virus emerged late last year. The number of coronavirus cases in Japan stood at around 1,060 on Friday, with new infections reported from Yamaguchi prefecture in the southwest to Hokkaido in the north, according to national broadcaster NHK. Japan has barred entry to visitors from highly affected areas in South Korea and ordered two weeks' quarantine for others. "If the Japanese government does not withdraw their decision...we cannot help but devise necessary countermeasures, including reciprocal measures," South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha told Japanese Ambassador Koji Tomita earlier in the day. Also see: Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107 "We express deep regret towards the unjust measures taken by the Japanese government." Japanese Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters in Tokyo that the quarantine instructions, which would also apply to visitors from China, would take the form of a request for them to stay in their hotels. "We'll do everything to make sure people understand," he said. Seoul has protested to Southeast Asian neighbours Singapore and Vietnam over similar curbs. Also read: South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700 Tokyo faced "mistrust from the international community due to its opaque, passive" response to the virus outbreak, South Korea's National Security Council said after a meeting at the presidential Blue House earlier in the day. The rapid spread of the disease has raised doubts about whether Tokyo will be able to host the Olympics this summer, but the government has insisted that the Games will go ahead as scheduled. The number of new cases of the virus fell to 505 in South Korea on Friday, from 760 the previous day, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said. Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said authorities had almost finished tests on more than 200,000 followers of a church in southeastern Daegu at the centre of the outbreak. Watch: × More than 90% of South Korea's infections were in Daegu and nearby North Gyeongsang province. Smaller clusters elsewhere include a new one reported on Friday at a hospital in Seongnam, southeast of the capital. The number of South Korean visitors to Japan fell nearly 26% last year to 5.6 million, the first drop since Japan's tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011, Japanese tourism officials say. Difficult relations between Japan and South Korea date from the former's sometimes brutal occupation of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Japan's use of Korean girls and women in military brothels during World War Two still prompts fury in South Korea. Last year, Tokyo slapped trade curbs on South Korea, which responded with a boycott on Japanese goods and services.

South Korea suspends visas for Japanese amid tit-for-tat coronavirus curbs

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday two Indonesians had tested positive for coronavirus after being in contact with an infected Japanese national, marking the first confirmed cases in the world's fourth most populous country.

The two had been hospitalized in Jakarta, Widodo told reporters at the presidential palace in the capital.

The president said a 64-year-old woman and her 31-year-old daughter had tested positive after being in contact with a Japanese national who lived in Malaysia and had tested positive after returning from a trip to Indonesia.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-close-to-88000-people-infected-more-than-3000-dead-globally-283606">Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally</a>

Widodo said an Indonesian medical team had traced the movements of the Japanese visitor before uncovering the cases.

"After checks, they were in a sick state. This morning I got a report that the mother and the daughter tested positive for coronavirus," said Widodo, who said they were being treated at Jakarta's Sulianti Saroso infectious diseases hospital.

Health Minister Terawan Agus Putranto told reporters the Japanese visitor was a friend of the two women's families and had visited their house. He said authorities were checking who else the Japanese visitor may have come into contact with.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rock-band-green-day-pull-out-of-asia-tour-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-283437">Rock band Green Day pull out of Asia tour due to coronavirus outbreak</a>

The confirmation of the first cases of coronavirus came after authorities had defended their screening processes, with some medical experts raising concerns of a lack of vigilance and risk of undetected cases in the Southeast Asian country of more than 260 million people.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday two Indonesians had tested positive for coronavirus after being in contact with an infected Japanese national, marking the first confirmed cases in the world's fourth most populous country.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday two Indonesians had tested positive for coronavirus after being in contact with an infected Japanese national, marking the first confirmed cases in the world's fourth most populous country. The two had been hospitalized in Jakarta, Widodo told reporters at the presidential palace in the capital. The president said a 64-year-old woman and her 31-year-old daughter had tested positive after being in contact with a Japanese national who lived in Malaysia and had tested positive after returning from a trip to Indonesia. Also read: Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally Widodo said an Indonesian medical team had traced the movements of the Japanese visitor before uncovering the cases. "After checks, they were in a sick state. This morning I got a report that the mother and the daughter tested positive for coronavirus," said Widodo, who said they were being treated at Jakarta's Sulianti Saroso infectious diseases hospital. Health Minister Terawan Agus Putranto told reporters the Japanese visitor was a friend of the two women's families and had visited their house. He said authorities were checking who else the Japanese visitor may have come into contact with. Also see: Rock band Green Day pull out of Asia tour due to coronavirus outbreak The confirmation of the first cases of coronavirus came after authorities had defended their screening processes, with some medical experts raising concerns of a lack of vigilance and risk of undetected cases in the Southeast Asian country of more than 260 million people.

Indonesian President Widodo confirms first cases of coronavirus

February 21 in History: NASCAR is founded, The Communist Manifesto published, and more!

Japanese fashion billionaire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-fashion-designer-yusaku-maezawa-is-giving-away-9-million-to-his-twitter-followers-273254">Yusaku Maezawa</a> has pulled out of a documentary search for a girlfriend to take on his voyage around the moon with Elon Musk's SpaceX, citing his "mixed feelings" about participating.

This month, the 44-year-old announced he was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-billionaire-yusaku-maezawa-to-be-spacex-moon-traveller-166267">seeking single females</a> over 20 willing to vie to become his girlfriend for a documentary to be aired on streaming service AbemaTV. Almost 28,000 people applied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-japanese-billionaire-maezawa-who-seeks-girlfriend-for-moon-voyage-274172">Maezawa </a>said he is "extremely remorseful" about the decision to pull out, apologizing to the applicants and AbemaTV staff in posts to Twitter, where he is Japan's most-followed account with more than 7 million followers.

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お見合いにご応募いただきました皆さま、そしてAbemaTV関係者の皆さまには、心よりお詫び申し上げます。大変申し訳ございませんでした。 <a href="https://t.co/UvnhXov8xB">https://t.co/UvnhXov8xB</a>
— Yusaku Maezawa (MZ) 前澤友作 (@yousuck2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/yousuck2020/status/1222716480376098816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The translation reads thusly: " We sincerely apologize to all of you who have applied for the matchmaking, and to those involved in AbemaTV. I'm very sorry."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/billionaire-maezawa-seeks-for-a-life-partner-for-moon-spacex-voyage-273811">Fly me to the moon: Japanese billionaire Maezawa seeks girlfriend for SpaceX voyage</a>

Maezawa, the founder and former CEO of online fashion retailer Zozo, which he last year sold to SoftBank Group Corp, is known for launching big ideas with much fanfare - though some of them don't pan out as planned.

As CEO, he launched the Zozosuit, a polka-dot bodysuit that allowed users to collect body measurements to order custom-made clothes but which did not work well in practice. He also outlined an ambitious overseas expansion plan that wildly undershot targets, leading to a crash in the company's stock price.

Maezawa has pledged to give away $9 million to his Twitter followers in what he says is a "social experiment" to see if the payment boosts their happiness.

Japanese fashion billionaire Yusaku Maezawa has pulled out of a documentary search for a girlfriend to take on his voyage around the moon with Elon Musk's SpaceX, citing his "mixed feelings" about participating.

Japanese fashion billionaire Yusaku Maezawa has pulled out of a documentary search for a girlfriend to take on his voyage around the moon with Elon Musk's SpaceX, citing his "mixed feelings" about participating. This month, the 44-year-old announced he was seeking single females over 20 willing to vie to become his girlfriend for a documentary to be aired on streaming service AbemaTV. Almost 28,000 people applied. Maezawa said he is "extremely remorseful" about the decision to pull out, apologizing to the applicants and AbemaTV staff in posts to Twitter, where he is Japan's most-followed account with more than 7 million followers. お見合いにご応募いただきました皆さま、そしてAbemaTV関係者の皆さまには、心よりお詫び申し上げます。大変申し訳ございませんでした。 https://t.co/UvnhXov8xB — Yusaku Maezawa (MZ) 前澤友作 (@yousuck2020) January 30, 2020 × The translation reads thusly: " We sincerely apologize to all of you who have applied for the matchmaking, and to those involved in AbemaTV. I'm very sorry." Also Read: Fly me to the moon: Japanese billionaire Maezawa seeks girlfriend for SpaceX voyage Maezawa, the founder and former CEO of online fashion retailer Zozo, which he last year sold to SoftBank Group Corp, is known for launching big ideas with much fanfare - though some of them don't pan out as planned. As CEO, he launched the Zozosuit, a polka-dot bodysuit that allowed users to collect body measurements to order custom-made clothes but which did not work well in practice. He also outlined an ambitious overseas expansion plan that wildly undershot targets, leading to a crash in the company's stock price. Maezawa has pledged to give away $9 million to his Twitter followers in what he says is a "social experiment" to see if the payment boosts their happiness.

Japanese billionaire Maezawa pulls out of dating show that promised the moon trip

Focused on profitability, the Japanese auto major Nissan has told its managers to slash non-essential spending as the automaker grapples with slumping car sales and tumbling profits.

The penny-pinching drive is in place for the rest of the financial year until end-March and will most likely continue into the coming business year.

According to reports, managers have been told to put the kibosh on unnecessary travel, sales incentives and promotional events to “conserve every yen."

Meetings that three or four people would once have travelled to attend in person, might now only have one Nissan representative.

The extensive spending cuts come in tandem with Nissan’s decision this month to order a two-day furlough for US Employees January &nbsp;2-3. There is also an effective travel ban for staff in the United States, where sales have been particularly hard hit.

Focused on profitability, the Japanese auto major Nissan has told its managers to slash non-essential spending as the automaker grapples with slumping car sales and tumbling profits.

Focused on profitability, the Japanese auto major Nissan has told its managers to slash non-essential spending as the automaker grapples with slumping car sales and tumbling profits. The penny-pinching drive is in place for the rest of the financial year until end-March and will most likely continue into the coming business year. According to reports, managers have been told to put the kibosh on unnecessary travel, sales incentives and promotional events to “conserve every yen." Meetings that three or four people would once have travelled to attend in person, might now only have one Nissan representative. The extensive spending cuts come in tandem with Nissan’s decision this month to order a two-day furlough for US Employees January 2-3. There is also an effective travel ban for staff in the United States, where sales have been particularly hard hit.

Japanese auto major Nissan orders drastic spending cuts

Japan's childbirth hit the lowest figure in 2019 since the government started compiling data, the official government sources said on.

According to a report published by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare the estimated number of babies born in the country in 2019 fell to 864,000 — the lowest since 1899.

The dwindling number of births will put more strain on welfare finances to support snowballing costs of supporting an ageing population, which would undermine economic growth, analysts say.

There were 512,000 more deaths than births this year, the first time the figure has surpassed 500,000, with 864,000 babies born. Last year, 918,400 babies were born.

This was the biggest decline in births since 1975, driven by fewer women aged 25 to 39, said a ministry official in charge of compiling the data.

The government is hoping for a birth rate of 1.8 per cent&nbsp;- which would appear a tall order given the rate was 1.42 per cent&nbsp;in 2018.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Japan's childbirth hit the lowest figure in 2019 since the government started compiling data, the official government sources said on. According to a report published by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare the estimated number of babies born in the country in 2019 fell to 864,000 — the lowest since 1899.

Japan's childbirth hit the lowest figure in 2019 since the government started compiling data, the official government sources said on. According to a report published by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare the estimated number of babies born in the country in 2019 fell to 864,000 — the lowest since 1899. The dwindling number of births will put more strain on welfare finances to support snowballing costs of supporting an ageing population, which would undermine economic growth, analysts say. There were 512,000 more deaths than births this year, the first time the figure has surpassed 500,000, with 864,000 babies born. Last year, 918,400 babies were born. This was the biggest decline in births since 1975, driven by fewer women aged 25 to 39, said a ministry official in charge of compiling the data. The government is hoping for a birth rate of 1.8 per cent - which would appear a tall order given the rate was 1.42 per cent in 2018. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan's childbirth rate hits lowest level since records began in 1899

The number of babies born in Japan fell by 5.9 per cent this year, with fewer than 900,000 births. According to the Welfare Ministry, this is a first in the history of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-south-korea-committed-to-dialogue-to-resolve-north-korea-issue-china-269879">Japan</a> since the government started compiling data in 1899.

Japan has a humongous ageing population, and this development might increase the strain on welfare finances for the elderly. This, according to analysts might undermine economic growth.

Additionally, there were 512,000 more deaths than births in Japan this year.

As per figures provided by Reuters, this is the first time that the number of deaths is more than 500,000, with the approximate figure of new babies at 864,000 this year.&nbsp;

Last year alone, 918,400 babies were born.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-meets-japans-abe-in-beijing-calls-for-advancing-bilateral-ties-269799">government of Japan</a> announced hopes for a birth rate of 1.8 per cent, which might be difficult to achieve considering the rate was 1.42 per cent in 2018.

This momentous decline in births may be attributed to fewer women aged 25 to 39.

Since 1975, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-releases-japan-fishing-boats-held-near-disputed-islands-269911">Japan</a> hasn't witnessed a decline this big.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of babies born in Japan fell by 5.9 per cent this year, with fewer than 900,000 births. According to the Welfare Ministry, this is a first in the history of Japan since the government started compiling data in 1899.

The number of babies born in Japan fell by 5.9 per cent this year, with fewer than 900,000 births. According to the Welfare Ministry, this is a first in the history of Japan since the government started compiling data in 1899. Japan has a humongous ageing population, and this development might increase the strain on welfare finances for the elderly. This, according to analysts might undermine economic growth. Additionally, there were 512,000 more deaths than births in Japan this year. As per figures provided by Reuters, this is the first time that the number of deaths is more than 500,000, with the approximate figure of new babies at 864,000 this year. Last year alone, 918,400 babies were born. The government of Japan announced hopes for a birth rate of 1.8 per cent, which might be difficult to achieve considering the rate was 1.42 per cent in 2018. This momentous decline in births may be attributed to fewer women aged 25 to 39. Since 1975, Japan hasn't witnessed a decline this big. (With inputs from agencies)

Number of babies born falls by 5.9% for first time in Japan's history

Japan's markets watchdog will likely recommend soon that the financial regulator fine Nissan Motor Co Ltd about 2.4 billion yen ($22 million) over false reporting on its financial statement, public broadcaster NHK reported on Sunday.

Nissan's former Chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested in Tokyo in November last year over allegations of financial misconduct, including understating his salary by around 9.1 billion yen ($84.71 million) over a period of nearly a decade and temporarily transferring personal financial losses to the books of Nissan, Japan's number&nbsp;2 automaker.

Reuters reported in June that Nissan would be fined up to 4 billion yen and it may receive a reduced fine of around 2.4 billion yen if the automaker filed documentation to the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) before the formal investigation begins, citing a source.

The fine would cover a four-year period through March 2018, the source previously told Reuters.

Nissan and the SESC could not immediately be reached for comment.

Japan's markets watchdog will likely recommend soon that the financial regulator fine Nissan Motor Co Ltd about 2.4 billion yen ($22 million) over false reporting on its financial statement, public broadcaster NHK reported on Sunday.

Japan's markets watchdog will likely recommend soon that the financial regulator fine Nissan Motor Co Ltd about 2.4 billion yen ($22 million) over false reporting on its financial statement, public broadcaster NHK reported on Sunday. Nissan's former Chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested in Tokyo in November last year over allegations of financial misconduct, including understating his salary by around 9.1 billion yen ($84.71 million) over a period of nearly a decade and temporarily transferring personal financial losses to the books of Nissan, Japan's number 2 automaker. Reuters reported in June that Nissan would be fined up to 4 billion yen and it may receive a reduced fine of around 2.4 billion yen if the automaker filed documentation to the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) before the formal investigation begins, citing a source. The fine would cover a four-year period through March 2018, the source previously told Reuters. Nissan and the SESC could not immediately be reached for comment.

Japan's markets watchdog likely to recommend $22 million fine against Nissan

Japanese idol group Obachaaan, a collective of talented grannies, danced and rapped on the streets of Osaka on Wednesday (June 26) to welcome the world to the city that is set to host leaders from G20 countries this week.

Japanese grannies take over Osaka ahead of G20 summit

A Japanese <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-blames-iran-for-tanker-attacks-says-wont-hesitate-on-threats-227478">tanker, attacked in the Gulf</a> in an incident that sparked a new standoff between Washington and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-summons-uk-envoy-over-unfounded-tanker-accusations-227496">Tehran</a>, "arrived safely" Sunday at an anchorage off the UAE, its management said.

The Kokuka Courageous was carrying highly flammable methanol through the Gulf of Oman on Thursday when it and the Norwegian-operated Front Altair were rocked by explosions.&nbsp;

The US and Saudi Arabia have accused Iran of responsibility.

"Kokuka Courageous has arrived safely at the designated anchorage at Sharjah", an emirate neighbouring Dubai, the vessel's Singapore-based BSM Ship Management said in a statement Sunday.

The crew, who remained on board, were "safe and well", it said, adding that a damage assessment and preparations for transferring the ship's cargo would start "once the port authorities have completed their standard security checks and formalities."

BSM Ship Management had said earlier Kokuka Courageous was heading towards an anchorage on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, facing the Gulf of Oman.

The other ship, the Front Altair, has left Iran's territorial waters, multiple sources said Saturday.

It was "heading toward the Fujairah-Khor Fakkan area in the United Arab Emirates", the ports chief of Iran's southern province of Hormozgan told the semi-official news agency ISNA.

A spokeswoman for Frontline Management, the Norwegian company which owns the ship, said "all 23 crew members of the tanker departed Iran" and flew to Dubai on Saturday.

The US military on Friday released grainy footage it said showed an Iranian patrol boat removing an "unexploded limpet mine" from the Japanese vessel.

Tehran has vehemently denied any involvement.

Iran has repeatedly warned in the past that it could block the strategic Hormuz Strait in a relatively low-tech, high-impact countermeasure to any attack by the United States.

Doing so would disrupt oil tankers travelling out of the Gulf region to the Indian Ocean and global export routes.

A Japanese tanker, attacked in the Gulf in an incident that sparked a new standoff between Washington and Tehran, "arrived safely" Sunday at an anchorage off the UAE, its management said.

A Japanese tanker, attacked in the Gulf in an incident that sparked a new standoff between Washington and Tehran, "arrived safely" Sunday at an anchorage off the UAE, its management said. The Kokuka Courageous was carrying highly flammable methanol through the Gulf of Oman on Thursday when it and the Norwegian-operated Front Altair were rocked by explosions. The US and Saudi Arabia have accused Iran of responsibility. "Kokuka Courageous has arrived safely at the designated anchorage at Sharjah", an emirate neighbouring Dubai, the vessel's Singapore-based BSM Ship Management said in a statement Sunday. The crew, who remained on board, were "safe and well", it said, adding that a damage assessment and preparations for transferring the ship's cargo would start "once the port authorities have completed their standard security checks and formalities." BSM Ship Management had said earlier Kokuka Courageous was heading towards an anchorage on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, facing the Gulf of Oman. The other ship, the Front Altair, has left Iran's territorial waters, multiple sources said Saturday. It was "heading toward the Fujairah-Khor Fakkan area in the United Arab Emirates", the ports chief of Iran's southern province of Hormozgan told the semi-official news agency ISNA. A spokeswoman for Frontline Management, the Norwegian company which owns the ship, said "all 23 crew members of the tanker departed Iran" and flew to Dubai on Saturday. The US military on Friday released grainy footage it said showed an Iranian patrol boat removing an "unexploded limpet mine" from the Japanese vessel. Tehran has vehemently denied any involvement. Iran has repeatedly warned in the past that it could block the strategic Hormuz Strait in a relatively low-tech, high-impact countermeasure to any attack by the United States. Doing so would disrupt oil tankers travelling out of the Gulf region to the Indian Ocean and global export routes.

Damaged Japanese tanker arrives at UAE anchorage

US President Donald Trump met new Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako today in the ceremonial highlight of a state visit overshadowed by trade tensions between the two allies.

Trump meets new Japanese emperor in ceremonial highlight of state visit

Japanese emperor Akihito is set to step down from the throne on Tuesday, which will make him the first monarch to abdicate in more than 200 years.

Japan: A 10 days holiday for Prince's coronation

Suicide has a long history in Japan as a way to avoid shame or dishonour, and getting psychological help was stigmatised. But when suicides hit a peak of 34,427 in 2003, it alarmed policymakers and drew foreign attention, often a catalyst for change in Japan.

Helping, listening, caring: Japanese prefecture records dramatic decrease in suicides

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