Stories from Tokyo · Japan

The Japanese government is scheduled to increase the upper limit for pension contributions in December.

A new book explores the life of a 19th-century German physician who lived in Japan. The author researched the physician's family history and the historical periods of France and England. The work includes a biography of the physician's father, Gerald de Portrait. The book focuses heavily on the family's historical background. The biography specifically examines the history of the Dudur Mories family. The work covers various historical eras to provide context for the subject's life.

The Bank of Japan will hold a monetary policy meeting from April 27 to April 28. Analysts suggest a 0.25% rate hike will not significantly impact nominal growth. The meeting is confirmed to run from April 27 to April 28 with the current policy interest rate held at 0.75%.

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.