Japan's unprofitable local rail lines face threat of cuts amid pandemic
Falling passenger numbers are imperiling the future of unprofitable lines, with some not being reopened after natural disasters.
Businesses in Chugoku region making moves toward decarbonization
Despite its higher cost, some businesses are adopting LPG as fuel for their operations.
As the pandemic drags on, more in Japan find solace in 'oshikatsu' devotion
Made more accessible through new technology, styles of fandom long monopolized by those obsessed with pop culture, anime and manga are, for many, becoming a vital part of lockdown life.
Younger generations are seen to be shunning local assemblies because of members' precarity and low remuneration.
Some experts are cautious about the legal restrictions because of potential conflict with the right to freedom of expression as stipulated in the Constitution.
Experts claim that companies in rural areas must create a welcoming environment for sexual minorities in order to attract new hires.
Hiroshima schools offer choice of skirts and pants to female students
An increasing number of schools are devising uniform policies that are more gender neutral, in line with greater awareness of diversity issues and the needs of students.
Hiroshima government office reverses course on anti-smoking measures
Smoking areas for workers will be restored after residents complained about them smoking on the street and outside an existing smoking booth.
Unmarried couples face legal restrictions such as an inability to inherit property when a partner dies.
Accident that paralyzed woman in Hiroshima highlights high bar for 'dangerous driving'
Dangerous driving resulting in death or injury became a criminal offense in 2001 in response to a series of tragic traffic accidents.
Japan citizens' groups take on 'period poverty' as municipalities shy away
A survey in the Chugoku region has found an alarming lack of support from local municipalities for handing out sanitary products.
Visitors to Chugoku's 109 courses topped 370,000 in March, an eight-year high for that month
