In a surprising development that’s sending ripples through the world of horse racing, the Japan Racing Association (JRA) Horse Racing School has reported an unprecedented wave of dropouts. For the first time since its opening in 1982, there will be no new jockeys debuting in the spring of 2026. This …

In the fast-paced world of international aviation, safety remains paramount. Yet, even established carriers like Japan Airlines (JAL) face occasional setbacks that highlight the human element in air travel. A recent incident involving a JAL captain who violated company alcohol policies during a layover in Honolulu, Hawaii, has sparked discussions …

As September rolls in, most of us expect cooler autumn breezes, but Japan, particularly Kyushu, is grappling with heat that feels more like peak summer. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the summer of 2025 (June to August) in Kyushu was the hottest on record since 1946, driven by …

Jujutsu Kaisen, the blockbuster anime series that has captivated audiences worldwide with its intense battles, supernatural elements, and deep character development, is gearing up for its highly anticipated third season. Fans of the dark fantasy saga can rejoice as Season 3, titled Jujutsu Kaisen: Culling Game – Part 1, is …

Have you ever encountered a word that seems to weave together a tapestry of meanings, each one shifting slightly depending on how it’s used? In Japanese, “Omoshiroi” (面白い) is one such word—a versatile adjective that can mean “interesting,” “funny,” “amusing,” or “enjoyable.” For English speakers who are just dipping their …

In a world where family structures are evolving rapidly, ensuring the well-being of children post-divorce remains a global challenge. Japan, known for its blend of tradition and modernity, is taking significant steps to address this issue through proposed changes to its child support laws. As of 2025, the Ministry of …

In a heartbreaking case that underscores the escalating threat of phone scams worldwide, a 66-year-old unemployed man from Kawaguchi City in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, fell victim to a sophisticated fraud scheme, losing a staggering ¥48.4 million (approximately $335,000 USD) over just two weeks. Announced by the Saitama Prefectural Police’s Bunan …

In the serene parks of Sendai, Japan—a city renowned for its lush greenery, historic sites, and vibrant festivals like the Tanabata Star Festival—a peculiar and alarming crime wave has emerged. Since June 2025, thieves have targeted metal bollards, those unassuming stainless steel posts designed to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian …

In the fast-paced world of Japan’s high-speed rail network, where precision and punctuality are legendary, an unusual intruder can sometimes bring everything to a halt. On August 24, 2025, the Akita Shinkansen experienced a rare delay after colliding with a bear in Iwate Prefecture. This incident highlights the delicate balance …

Tokyo Expands Air Conditioner Purchase Subsidy to ¥80,000 for Elderly and Disabled: A Step Toward Heatstroke Prevention In an era where climate change is intensifying summer heatwaves worldwide, cities like Tokyo are taking proactive steps to protect their most vulnerable populations. As temperatures soar to record highs, heatstroke has become …