Stories from Japan

The Shonan Monorail will provide free fares for elementary school students on May 5, marking the 55th anniversary of the line's opening. The line connects northern Kamakura City to Enoshima. The service celebrates its 55th anniversary of full operation, which occurred in 1971. The monorail originally opened the section between Ofuna and Kamakura West stations in 1970. The Kamakura monorail will offer free fares on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. A discounted fare of 30 yuan is available for card or code payments, down from the regular 55 yuan, reducing travel costs for students.

AI-related stocks were sold off, according to a report from Yomiuri Shimbun.

A Japanese marmalade master won eight medals at a British marmalade competition. Beatrice Hasel-McCosh serves as the director of the event. This year, entries were received from more than 25 countries, including Botswana, Georgia, and Taiwan.

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.