Stories from Japan

The four-wheel electric mobility product 'LBIRD' by Sun Emperor has exceeded 10 million yen in crowdfunding on Makuake.

Seino Transportation and T2 have commenced relay transport using autonomous trucks between the Kanto and Hyogo prefectures.

Japan is ending a three-tier tax system that previously applied different rates to various alcoholic beverages.

The Zushi City Election Commission announced it will delay its decision regarding an objection filed against the March election results.

Chigasaki Mayor Chigasaki announced the introduction of the 'Arigato Kasan' system to promote childcare leave. Chigasaki announced a new system to add allowances to childcare leave to promote its use, marking the first such initiative among municipalities in the prefecture. This is the first initiative of its kind among local governments in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Toyota suppliers are beginning to experience component shortages attributed to the ongoing conflict in Iran.

A new diplomatic crisis has emerged between Japan and China following the delivery of a diplomatic note.

Japanese researchers have initiated the first clinical trials on Gülokom patients using a cellular purification method. The research previously demonstrated a 30% increase in lifespan and the restoration of vision in mice within laboratory settings.

Polish coach Maciej Skorza has left his position at the Japanese football club Urawa Red Diamonds by mutual agreement. Rafał Janas and Majiki Hayashi are also leaving the team following a period of poor performance. The decision follows a seven-match losing streak for the Saitama-based club. Skorza's second tenure with the team began in August 2024. The team has failed to win its last seven matches in the Japanese league. Skorza previously managed Lech Poznan in Poland starting in 2022. Skorza's primary achievement with the club was winning the Asian Champions League. The departure includes staff members such as Janas. Following the announcement, fans expressed gratitude to the departing staff in online comments.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has completed her visit to Japan as part of an Asian tour. The visit focused on securing fuel supplies from key trading partners. Australia currently provides gas volumes to Japan in exchange for refined fuels. Wong is scheduled to travel to China and South Korea next.