Stories from Tokyo · Japan

International shipping surcharges will rise significantly starting with shipments departing in May. Surcharges are driven by rising crude oil prices due to Middle East tensions. The news follows a period of high demand at departure terminals.

A shipment of US crude oil arrived in Tokyo Bay yesterday after a 35-day voyage via the Panama Canal. This marks the first time US crude has reached Japan through this specific route following recent Middle East tensions. Oil companies and the government are utilizing this route to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. The move aims to secure a reliable supply source from the United States.

Japanese police data shows approximately 77,000 people died alone at home in 2025.

The Karasuyama Line will suspend services on April 27 and April 28, 2026, from approximately 09:30 to 15:20 due to maintenance work.

Zargal Otgon Zargal, known by the stage name Baek Ha-so, secured a knockout victory in a middleweight title match held in Japan. The fighter previously worked manual labor jobs, including moving moving boxes, to support his professional training. He has expressed a commitment to a life of dedication and sacrifice. The victory follows his transition from manual labor to professional combat sports.

A study involving 48 participants aged 76 and older examined the effects of molecular hydrogen water. Researchers observed the group for six months while they engaged in sports and social activities. The group consuming hydrogen water showed slowed progression of motor disorders compared to the control group drinking plain water. This research follows similar studies conducted in Japan.

A Japanese slalom skier has secured a position on the 2026 national team following a selection event in Tokyo. Skier Moroki Mitsuwaku has secured a national team spot and will advance to the Asian Games in Aichi Prefecture this autumn.

Japan aims to acquire technical details regarding modular combat aircraft modules through observer and cooperation roles. The nation intends to integrate these technologies into its domestic defense equipment research and development. This move follows previous efforts by Japan to expand its defense equipment export capabilities. The strategic goal includes gaining deeper involvement in advanced aviation systems. Japan is pursuing details regarding Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) technology. This move aims to bolster Japan's ability to develop and potentially export advanced military systems. The development comes alongside interest in unmanned systems like Australia's Yu Ling submarine and Yu Ling Bat drone. The Yu Ling Bat drone has completed over 150 prototype flights and can perform surveillance or act as a wingman for manned fighters.

The Japanese government has finalized plans to establish a new national qualification system.

Japan has deployed approximately 1,400 combat personnel for military exercises involving the 1.4 helicopter carrier and Lei-class destroyer. The 107th formation is conducting maritime training exercises. The Japanese military is conducting live-fire training exercises in maritime areas. The drills specifically involve the 107th fleet and focus on sea-air coordination and replenishment at sea. The drills involve a formation of Type 055 and Type 052D destroyers operating in the waters east of Luzon Island. The 107th formation includes the 054A-type missile frigate Hengyang, which specializes in anti-submarine warfare. This vessel, alongside two other combat ships and an ocean-going supply ship, forms a balanced task force capable of sustained operations in a single maritime area.