In a groundbreaking move, the Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, has decided to pivot its agricultural policy toward increasing rice production. This decision, set to be formally announced at a ministerial meeting on August 5, 2025, comes as a direct response to recent rice price hikes triggered …

On August 4, 2025, Ezaki Glico, the renowned Japanese confectionery company, announced a groundbreaking achievement: the registration of Pocky’s distinctive long, thin stick shape as a “three-dimensional trademark.” This milestone is more than just a legal victory—it’s a celebration of Pocky’s enduring legacy as a beloved snack, both in Japan …

Introduction: A Landmark Wage Increase In a significant move for Japan’s workforce, the Central Minimum Wage Council announced on August 4, 2025, that the national weighted average minimum wage will rise to 1,118 yen per hour for the fiscal year 2025. This increase of 63 yen, or 6.0%, from the …

In Japan, the government stockpiles rice as a strategic reserve to ensure food security and stabilize market prices. Recently, however, this system has faced a significant challenge: businesses are canceling or reducing their orders for reserve rice under the non-competitive contract system, known as “zuii keiyaku” in Japanese. An investigation …

Japan is currently in the grip of an unrelenting heatwave that has reached its peak, pushing temperatures to dangerous levels across the nation. As of Monday, August 4, 2025, forecasts predict highs approaching 40°C (104°F) in some areas, with heatstroke alerts issued for 36 prefectures. This extreme heat, which began …

In today’s entertainment landscape, few companies have mastered the art of blending cultural trends with business acumen as effectively as Sony. By harnessing the synergy between anime and music, Sony has not only solidified its position as an industry leader but also accelerated its global expansion. From blockbuster anime films …

Quick answer: A convenience store in Japanese is konbini (コンビニ), short for konbiniensu sutoru. Japanese convenience stores are famous for fresh food, ATMs, ticket machines, parcel services, clean restrooms in some locations, seasonal snacks, and reliable 24-hour service. For travelers, konbini are one of the easiest places to buy breakfast, …

The term “Japanese foot” might catch your attention if you’re exploring Japanese culture or language as an English speaker. It’s a phrase that carries multiple meanings, from the way the word “foot” is expressed in Japanese to a traditional unit of measurement that dates back centuries. This article dives deep …

Quick answer: A Japanese highball is a crisp whisky-and-soda drink usually made with Japanese whisky, lots of ice, and highly carbonated soda water. In Japan, it is popular because it is light, refreshing, food-friendly, and easy to drink at izakayas. This guide explains what makes a Japanese highball different, how …

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is a city synonymous with tradition, culture, and breathtaking beauty. From its serene temples to its vibrant festivals, it has long been a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. However, as the number of international tourists—so-called “inbound” visitors—has surged in recent years, a new question has emerged: …