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Kanako Takahara

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Kanako Takahara

Kanako Takahara is a staff writer who has covered national politics, diplomacy, business and the economy at The Japan Times. A graduate of Sophia University, she is currently a national news editor.

JAPAN / Science & Health

Aug 2, 2022

Experts urge Japan to downgrade COVID to similar class as seasonal flu

Making it the equivalent of a Class V disease would affect which hospitals and clinics can treat patients, as well as the reporting of cases.

JAPAN

Jul 22, 2022

As COVID wave grows, Japan beefs up response but won't limit business activities

With the seventh wave reaching unprecedented heights, the government is ramping up the number of hospital beds available and expanding the scope of those eligible for fourth vaccine shots.

JAPAN / Explainer

Jul 21, 2022

As cases surge across Japan, here’s what you need to know if you catch COVID-19

With the peak of the last wave coming more than five months ago, some might struggle to remember the protocols to follow if they become infected with COVID-19.

Japan Times

JAPAN / Politics / ANALYSIS

Jul 11, 2022

Constitutional revision inches closer in Japan, but actual change still far off

Divisions over what aspects to revise and more pressing political issues for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida could delay change to the top law.

JAPAN / Politics

Jul 10, 2022

Sweeping LDP Upper House victory heralds fresh start for Kishida

The ruling parties are on course to maintain a majority in the Upper House, according to an exit poll, while pro-constitutional revision forces are set to clear a crucial threshold.

JAPAN / FOCUS

Jul 10, 2022

With fresh mandate, Kishida set to have hands full in coming months

Fresh off his party's Upper House election victory, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is expected to set his sights on a signature economic policy, Japan's COVID measures and a defense overhaul.

JAPAN

Jul 8, 2022

Despite shock of Abe's death, Upper House poll to proceed as planned

Although some leeway is given to local elections, the government has previously said that national elections cannot be postponed.

JAPAN

Jul 8, 2022

Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe assassinated

A suspect was arrested after Abe, one of the most consequential leaders in Japan's postwar history, was shot while campaigning in the city of Nara on Friday.

JAPAN

Jul 8, 2022

Former PM Shinzo Abe in 'serious condition' after being shot in Nara

The former prime minister was attacked while giving a campaign speech ahead of Sunday's Upper House election.

JAPAN

Jul 4, 2022

Celebrity and intense competition define Tokyo's Upper House race

With a large number of votes needed to secure a seat, new and unknown candidates face an uphill struggle, leading to many well-known faces on the ballot.

JAPAN / Society / EXPLAINER

Jun 29, 2022

Unpacking Japan's latest ruling on same-sex marriage

While the Osaka and Sapporo courts agreed on one key point, they diverged on whether the lack of same-sex marriage violates the Constitution's equality principle.

JAPAN / New Normal 2.0

Jun 27, 2022

Japan prepares for bounce in tourism, but pre-pandemic demand still far off

Destinations such as Niseko in Hokkaido are gearing up for 'revenge travel' by domestic and foreign tourists, but caution over COVID-19 limits the expected rise in numbers.

Japan Times

JAPAN

Jun 21, 2022

Japan's Justice Ministry to propose shared parental authority after divorce

Under the system, parents would be able to jointly make major decisions for their child, such those related to health care and education.

BUSINESS

Jun 17, 2022

BOJ stands pat on policy despite pressure following Fed rate hike

While many economists had said a policy shift was unlikely, the Fed's decision to introduce its largest rate hike since 1994 had fueled speculation that an adjustment might be made.

JAPAN

Jun 16, 2022

Business license of disgraced Hokkaido tour boat firm revoked

Shiretoko Yuransen, based in the town of Shari, Hokkaido, will not be able to apply for a new license for the next two years.

JAPAN

Jun 15, 2022

No more silent lunches? Some Japan schools ease COVID restrictions

With coronavirus infections dropping, some municipalities are lifting restrictions to let students socialize during the midday meal.

Japan Times

JAPAN

Jun 10, 2022

Travel agencies rush to meet COVID-19 guidelines as Japan reopens for tourism

With new government protocols in place, it will take time before Japan's airports swarm with overseas travelers again.

Japan Times

JAPAN

Jun 7, 2022

Japan to make tourists wear masks and purchase medical insurance

The Japan Tourism Agency has unveiled guidelines setting out what travel agencies, escorting guides and tourists will be required to do before and during their trip.

JAPAN

Jun 3, 2022

Japan allows visits by extended family, fiances and common-law partners

Those in a relationship with a resident of Japan equivalent to a relative, such as a fiance, will be required to provide proof of their relationship, such as an engagement certificate.

Japan Times

JAPAN

Jun 2, 2022

Japan residents flock to South Korean Embassy for visas as tourism resumes

Demand for South Korean tourist visas is so great that the country's embassy in Tokyo has limited applications to 150 per day, with some applicants camping out overnight.

One of the many entrances to the Kabukicho neighborhood in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward.

Kabukicho: Tokyo’s ‘stadium of desire’

Mount Fuji is considered one of Japan's most iconic symbols and is a major draw for tourists. It's still a mountain, though, and potential hikers need to properly prepare for any climb.

What it takes to save lives on Mount Fuji

By Alex K.T. Martin

SUSTAINABLE JAPAN

Smile! It’s ‘Sanrio Time,’ now and ever after

Smile! It’s ‘Sanrio Time,’ now and ever after

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