Stories from Japan

The Japanese government announced on May 1 that it has begun releasing national petroleum reserves at oil bases within Shizuoka Prefecture. This action follows a period of increased crude oil imports driven by Middle East instability.

Flora Co., Ltd.

The Epic Games Store is now available for iPhone users in Japan. This launch follows the enactment of the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) in December 2025.

The Japanese government has increased the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager visa. This regulatory change is reportedly placing additional pressure on small businesses operating within the country.

A unique scientific installation called Super-Kamiokande is located at a depth of 1,000 meters in Japan. The facility utilizes a giant camera equipped with more than 11,000 gold-sensitive neutrino detectors.

Orahama City announced the expansion of the Smile Start Package to include increased subsidies for child-rearing households acquiring residential property.

Fujitsu has announced plans to end its mainframe computing business by the year 2035.

The Bank of Japan is considering increasing interest rates despite low current levels. Global Business and Financial Advisor Ray Fuji noted that the government is concerned about rising capital costs due to a debt balance.

The US Navy announced that carrier-based aircraft will conduct land-based takeoff and landing training at Liu Huang Island from May 7 to May 17. The drills at Liu Huang Island may be rescheduled to May 12-17 if weather conditions prevent the initial execution.

The Reptiles Fever 2026 festival for reptiles and amphibians is scheduled to take place in Osaka Nanko.