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On June 25, 2025, the Japanese idol group TOKIO shocked fans by announcing their disbandment on their official website. The group, made up of members Shigeru Joshima, Masahiro Matsuoka, and Taichi Kokubun, declared, “We have decided to disband as of today.” Official Statement on Disbandment In a statement titled “Notice …

Starting June 23, 2025, Japan has rolled out a new policy requiring pre-entry tuberculosis (TB) screening for individuals from certain countries planning to stay in Japan for more than three months. This initiative, aimed at curbing the spread of TB, initially targets nationals from the Philippines and Nepal, with plans …

Discover the Unique Charm of Meido Cafe Shangri-La in Kiryu, Gunma Located in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, Meido Cafe Shangri-La is a truly unique café where only seniors aged 65 and above work as maids. Since opening its doors in July 2024, this café has employed over 10 elderly staff …

In May, the average asking rent for rental apartments in Tokyo’s 23 wards for single occupants (with a floor area of 30 square meters or less) reached a new milestone. Rising by 0.7% from the previous month, the average rent hit ¥100,634, surpassing ¥100,000 for the first time. This surge …

Starting in 2025, climbing Mount Fuji will come with new rules and a mandatory fee, designed to tackle overtourism and protect the mountain’s pristine environment. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-time visitor, here’s everything you need to know about the updated climbing fees, online reservations, and trail restrictions. …

Overview of the Memorial Ceremony On June 23, 2025, a memorial ceremony took place at Peace Memorial Park in Itoman City, Okinawa, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II’s ground battle in the region. The event was attended by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Okinawa Governor …

How Kyoto’s New Accommodation Tax and Regional Tourism Initiatives Are Shaping Sustainable Travel Japan is taking bold steps to manage its booming tourism industry. With Kyoto introducing a significant accommodation tax increase and the government promoting lesser-known regions like Hokkaido, Okinawa, and the Japanese Alps, these efforts aim to balance …

In May 2025, Japan welcomed a record-breaking 3.7 million foreign tourists, a 21.5% increase from the previous year, marking the highest monthly figure ever recorded. The cumulative total from January to May reached 18.1 million, up 23.9% compared to the same period in 2024. This remarkable growth is driven by …

Key Points Mount Shinmoedake erupted for the first time in seven years on June 22, 2025, with a plume of smoke reaching 500 meters.   A safety advisory has been issued, warning of the danger of falling large rocks and pyroclastic flows within 2 kilometers of the crater.   The …

Overview: Yamanashi Prefecture is planning a new transportation system called the “Fuji Tram” to connect the base of Mount Fuji to the 5th station. Technology: The tram will use magnetic induction and rubber tires, aiming to protect the environment while improving tourist access. Cost and Connectivity: The project is estimated …