Business Sep 26, 2021

Renewable energy firms pin hopes on Taro Kono winning race for Japan PM

Kono has long championed renewables for Japan and has promised an economic stimulus package focused on them if he wins.

National Jul 30, 2021

A tale of two cities: In the 'bubble' and the Tokyo outside

While the athletes village and Olympic press center represent a huge, strict COVID-19 control zone, the residents of the capital are living life largely as normal.

National Jun 10, 2021

Suga regrets having to take the flak for hosting Olympics during pandemic

The prime minister was responding to comments from an opposition lawmaker, who said Suga had been coming under attack when the host city's governor, Yuriko Koike, should be weighing in.

Summer Olympics Jun 1, 2021

Australia's softball squad becomes first to arrive for Olympics

The Aussie Spirit squad touched down at Narita Airport outside Tokyo along with their support staff and was immediately ushered off for coronavirus testing.

National May 24, 2021

No one's safe anymore: Osaka crumples under COVID-19 onslaught

Drugs, ventilators and beds are running out as doctors warn of a "system collapse" and urge an end to the Olympics.

Olympics / Summer Olympics / Judo May 1, 2021

Judo judge draws strength from heading historic Japanese fireworks firm

Although the required skills are quite different from those of a judo judge, Akiko Amano says her work experience helps her when judging the martial art.

Business Dec 25, 2020

Domestic sponsors agree to extend contracts for delayed Tokyo Games

Tokyo 2020 organizers expect more than ¥22 billion in additional contributions from them.

National Sep 14, 2020

Aging and empty: Suga's hometown highlights Japan's challenges

Yuzawa in Akita Prefecture has seen a decline in its fortunes in recent years, with a low birth rate and high death rate.

Business / Tech Aug 20, 2020

Changing TikTok Japan ownership could address security concerns, ruling party lawmaker says

Norihiro Nakayama said his LDP group was unlikely to seek a ban on TikTok and other apps but would push for measures to ensure protection of user data.

National / Science & Health May 28, 2020

As Japan reopens, coronavirus testing slowed by red tape and staff shortages

Health ministry technocrats wanted to maintain a tight grip on information rather than cooperate with private institutions, critics say.