National May 6, 2021

With Tokyo bars and restaurants closed, drinkers take to the streets

Drinkers might be savoring the opportunity to maintain a social life amid the coronavirus pandemic, but authorities have been less welcoming.

National Apr 21, 2021

Tokyo parks offer respite amid pandemic, but authorities urge vigilance

With their wide, open spaces, large parks have become crowded with people hanging out under the sun, something that is likely to increase during the upcoming Golden Week holidays.

National Apr 16, 2021

Japan's passport remains world's most powerful — in theory

International travel may not be in the cards for the time being amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but holders can, on paper, access a record 193 countries without a visa.

National Mar 24, 2021

Japan's cherry blossom season: A time for cautious appreciation

People viewing the blossoms in Tokyo share with The Japan Times their feelings on this year's subdued festivities.

National | SPELLING BEE Mar 12, 2021

Winner of Japan Spelling Bee looks ahead to U.S. contest

Yugen Padhye won the 12th Japan Spelling Bee on March 6, after correctly spelling the winning word — "dodecahedron."

National / Science & Health Mar 3, 2021

This patch developed in Japan could let you vaccinate yourself

The "biobattery-powered microneedle patch" allows a vaccine to be absorbed faster than with the medical patches currently available commercially.

National Feb 5, 2021

Looking to the heavens: Japanese temple planned for inside satellite

Services will be held remotely in Kyoto, and prayers will be sent to the "space temple" to be saved in its memory.

National Jan 15, 2021

Cherry blossom to bloom three days earlier than average this year in Tokyo

The distinctive seasonal flowers are expected to open on March 23 this year in the capital, as well as in Kochi and Fukuoka prefectures, reaching full bloom eight days later on March 31.