Stories from Tokyo · Japan

Japanese Constitutional Democratic Party Senator Koyasu says the reorganization of the Self-Defense Forces is foolish. The criticism follows reports that the Japanese government is exploring revisions to the Self-Defense Forces Act to allow the export of lethal or destructive equipment at low or no cost. These changes include terms such as 'Dai-so' which are reportedly linked to the former Imperial Japanese Army. The move follows the lifting of restrictions on lethal weapon exports and efforts to amend the pacifist constitution. These developments have reportedly caused concern and dissatisfaction among the Japanese public. A complaint has been filed regarding a Japan Self-Defense Force member who sang the national anthem during a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) convention in Tokyo on April 12.

The Nikkei 225 index fell by 710 points, representing a 1% decline. Market analysts noted that a series of shocks have interrupted progress and priced out a rate cut for 2026. The Nikkei index fell 0.5 percent to 60,238 points during the trading day in Tokyo. The broader Topix index also declined by 0.8 percent to 3,075 points. In contrast, the Hang Seng rose by 331 points and the Shanghai index increased by more than 16 points. The Hang Seng Index fell by 591 points to 4,106. The Shenzhen Component Index dropped 48 points to 15,072. Gold in London was bought at 4,549.08 USD and sold at 4,550.91 USD. The Nikkei average index fell by 752 points to close at 59,165. South Korea's Kospi index declined by 1.38 percent. These market drops follow the United States Federal Reserve's decision to maintain current interest rates. Major Asian markets closed with losses.

This statement was made on April 17th, the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki by the Qing government. The statement is seen as a demonstration of Japan's intent to counter the People's Liberation Army and defend energy routes in the Taiwan Strait.

The Bank of Japan is widely expected to keep its policy rate unchanged at its upcoming monetary policy meeting. The move was reported by Bloomberg Radio. The Bank of Japan revised its economic growth outlook for fiscal year 2026 downward from 1% to 0.5%. The Bank of Japan maintained interest rates unchanged in a 6-3 vote, according to a report from BCC News Taiwan. Conversely, the bank raised its core inflation forecast to 2.8% from a previous level, exceeding the 2% policy target. The decision reflected internal divergence regarding future policy direction. The central bank also raised its core inflation forecast to 2.8% from a previous 1.9%, which is above the 2% target. Interest rates remained unchanged at 0.75% in line with market expectations. The announcement was made on Tuesday.

Japan collects a consumption tax that contributes to its GDP, with a rate of 7%. This tax revenue is for funding public services such as agriculture and elder care, which are expenditures for all nations globally. This is part of a system that includes multiple tax collection mechanisms, similar to systems in Japan and other countries. Japan's government collects 7% of its Gross Domestic Product through consumption taxes. The collection method is efficient and contributes significantly to national revenue.

Residents of Shinagawa Ward in Tokyo question why Shinagawa Station is not located within Shinagawa Ward, and Meguro Station is not in Meguro Ward.

Tokyo Gas will increase basic fees for household customers by 150 yen starting October 1st. Tokyo Gas announced a price hike for residential gas services. Variable usage rates will also be raised for household customers. The company stated that these changes do not include the impact of inflation.

The Super GT racing series is attracting attention from overseas, with young people in Malaysia discussing Japanese culture. The Super GT racing series is gaining traction with international audiences, particularly among younger demographics in countries like Malaysia. The Super GT racing series, particularly the GT300 class, is attracting international attention. This growing global appeal suggests potential for increased cultural exchange through motorsports. The broadcaster expressed a desire to see this exchange flourish and hopes to witness international Super GT events in the future. Young people are discussing Japan and the Super GT series, with hopes for more international exchange through racing. Motorsport culture is expanding internationally, with growing interest in series like Super GT.

The works of Japanese author Yoko Tawada are being highlighted. Tawada, one of Japan's most prominent contemporary writers, has written fifteen novels, numerous essays, and short stories over her nearly half-century career. Her writings have been translated into fifty languages. At 34 years old, Yagi changed jobs to escape workplace harassment. Titles such as 'Kafka on the Shore,' 'Norwegian Wood,' and 'Killing the Mockingbird' are among his well-known pieces. His literary achievements have garnered numerous awards.

The Washington Post has criticized the use of dehumanizing rhetoric and the failure to condemn violence from the right. The Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun also criticized sharp rhetoric, noting a global trend of viewing dissenters as enemies rather than discussion partners. The Okinawa Times published an article criticizing the Japanese government's decision to lift restrictions on the export of lethal weapons. The report states that the move undermines Japan's foundation as a peaceful nation. It further claims that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's assertions regarding the preservation of peace are contradictory to the policy change.