In this episode of Japan This Week, we dive into some of the hottest stories making headlines in Japan. From scandals shaking up the entertainment industry to icy New Year rituals at Shinto shrines across the country, we've got it all covered.

Timestamps:

(0:00 - 1:00) INTRO

(1:04 - 3:53) ENTERTAINMENT: Dozens more firms pull ads from Fuji TV over Masahiro Nakai sex scandal

https://japantoday.com/category/entertainment/dozens-of-firms-pull-ads-from-japanese-network-over-sex-scandal-linked-to-its-staff-and-celebrity

One of Japan's most famous TV networks, Fuji TV, is facing major backlash after allegations emerged of a cover-up involving a 90-million-yen ($575,000) sexual assault settlement with entertainer Masahiro Nakai. Sponsors are pulling out, and the entertainment industry is under fire once again.

(3:33 - 6:24) POLITICS: 'Japan First' mindset key for Ishiba in dealing with to Trump

https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-first-mindset-key-for-ishiba-in-dealing-with-trump-ex-aide

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba navigates the complexities of U.S.-Japan relations under Donald Trump’s renewed leadership. With high stakes on defense spending, trade, and investments, can Ishiba strike the right balance?

(6:28 - 9:25) CRIME: 7-Eleven to enhance security amid rise of solo workers at night

https://japantoday.com/category/crime/7-eleven-to-enhance-security-amid-rise-of-solo-workers-at-night

Japan’s convenience store giant 7-Eleven introduces stricter security measures for overnight shifts amid labor shortages and rising crime. Learn how these changes will impact workers and customers.

(9:29 - 12:26) NATIONAL: PM Ishiba visits Osaka Expo venue to inspect process of preparations

https://japantoday.com/category/national/pm-ishiba-visits-osaka-expo-venue-to-inspect-progress-of-preparations

The Osaka World Expo faces lukewarm local interest, complicated ticketing systems, and countries pulling out. Is the event set to flop before it even begins?

(12:30 - 14:26) NATIONAL: Japanese bathe in icy water at Tokyo shrine to purify soul

https://japantoday.com/category/national/ap-photos-japanese-bathe-in-icy-water-at-a-tokyo-shrine-to-purify-their-souls

Take a look at Japan’s centuries-old New Year tradition of ice-cold purification rituals at Shinto shrines. Discover the meaning behind this chilling practice.

(14:29 - 15:48) OUTRO

Catch the current Japan Today Spotlight episode, where we explore how Donald Trump’s re-election could impact Japan. And stay tuned for our next Spotlight episode, which takes a deep dive into the Fuji TV and Masahiro Nakai scandal.

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