JAPAN EDGE- Exploring Japan News, Culture and Beyond with Local Perspectives and Analysis

In this episode of Japan Edge, we delve into the misconceptions surrounding Japan's auto regulations caused by President Trump's false accusation towards the Japanese auto market. Discover the truth behind Japan's zero tariffs on foreign cars and the alignment of its inspection standards with Europe.  I will also discuss what I perceive as the real challenges of foreign automakers in the Japanese market. 

Countries around the world need to set their records straight!

In this first episode of Japan Edge in 2025, we explore three things to watch for in Japan this year. 

First, the ever-more favorable foreign exchange rate offers a prime opportunity for visitors to enjoy Japan's rich culture and affordable dining! Hear tips for a great sushi experience at Sushiro, too.

Next, we highlight Expo 2025 Osaka, set to run from April to October, featuring global pavilions and innovative themes focusing on global sustainability and quality of living.  It promises to showcase international collaboration and Osaka’s unique charm.

Finally, we turn to Japan’s Upper House election expected in July. This pivotal event will test the momentum for political reform following the LDP's loss of its Lower House majority in 2024. 

There are so many more to talk about, but as a starter, join us here for insights and updates on Japan’s journey!

In a surprising turn of events, Shigeo Ishiba, a long-time outsider within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), was elected party leader and became Japan's 102nd Prime Minister. Facing a divided LDP, where the dominant Abe faction opposes him, Ishiba immediately called for a national election, aiming to strengthen his position by securing public support. This decision is controversial, as many view it as a political gamble driven by his weak standing within the party. 

Despite huge public dissatisfaction with the LDP, particularly due to corruption scandals, the opposition parties like the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) have been weak in presenting clear policies other than to say that there needs power change and political reform.  

This episode reviews the recent LDP leadership election, Shigeo Ishiba’s gamble on the upcoming national election, and its implications, which could potentially reshape Japan’s entire political landscape. 

In this episode, we delve into the upcoming leadership election of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), set for September 27.  
We will explore the election process as well as the leading candidates.

We also touch on the state of Japan's opposition parties and its leadership election.  

Finally, I wish to share with you my thoughts on the broader implications of the LDP's enduring dominance, highlighting the challenges of political reform in a system heavily shaped by one-party rule. 

Get yourself in the world of My Hero Academia, one of Japan’s most beloved and thrilling anime series!

As the series reached its finale on August 5th after 10 incredible years, we explore what makes this story so special—from its unique premise and richly developed characters to its powerful themes that resonate with real-life struggles.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the anime scene, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive look at the journey of Deku, his friends, and his master heroes as they face formidable villains.  Tune in to discover why My Hero Academia has captured the hearts of so many and continues to be a standout in the world of anime!

Also check out the great opening and ending theme songs of the TV anime seasons!
Here are some of the most popular opening songs!

Season 1 "The Day" by Pornograffitti
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ1期ノンクレジットオープニング／OPテーマ：「THE DAY」ポルノグラフィティ／ヒロアカOP (youtube.com)

Season 2 "Peace Sign" by Genshi Yonetsu
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ2期第1クールオープニング（OP）ムービー／「ピースサイン」米津玄師／ヒロアカOP (youtube.com)

"Sing to the Sky" (sara ni utaeba) by Amazarashi
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ2期第2クールオープニングムービー／「空に歌えば」amazarashi／ヒロアカOP (youtube.com)


Season 3 "Odd Future" by UVERworld 
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ3期第1クールノンクレジットOPムービー／OPテーマ：「ODD FUTURE」UVERworld (youtube.com)

Season 3 ”Make My Story" by Lenny code Fiction
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ3期ノンクレジットOPムービー Vol.2／OPテーマ：「Make my story」Lenny code fiction (youtube.com)


Season 4 "Polaris" by Blue Encount
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』#ヒロアカ TVアニメ第4期ノンクレジットOPムービー／OPテーマ：「ポラリス」BLUE ENCOUNT／ブルエン／ヒーローインターン編 (youtube.com)

Season 4 "Star Marker" by Kana-boon
ヒロアカ TVアニメ4期「文化祭編」ノンクレジットOPムービー／『僕のヒーローアカデミア』／OPテーマ：「スターマーカー」KANA-BOON (youtube.com)


Season 5  "No. 1" by DISH 
ヒロアカ5期OP/『僕のヒーローアカデミア』TVアニメ5期ノンクレジットオープニングムービー／OPテーマ:「No.1」DISH// (youtube.com)

Season 5 "Merry Go Round" by Man with a Mission
ヒロアカ5期OP②/『僕のヒーローアカデミア』TVアニメ5期第2クールノンクレジットオープニングムービー／OPテーマ:「Merry-Go-Round」MAN WITH A MISSION (youtube.com)

Season 6 "Hitamuki" by Super Beaver
ヒロアカ6期OP①／『僕のヒーローアカデミア』6期第1クールOP映像ノンクレジット版／♪「ひたむき」SUPER BEAVER／MY HEROACADEMIA 6th Season OP (youtube.com)

Season 6 "Our" (Bokurano) by Eve
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』6期第2クールOPノンクレジット映像／♪「ぼくらの」Eve／ヒロアカ6期OP02／MY HEROACADEMIA 6th season OP Movie (youtube.com)

Season 7 "For Who" (darega-tame) by TK from Rin-toshite sigure
『僕のヒーローアカデミア』ヒロアカ7期OPノンクレジット映像／OPテーマ：「誰我為」TK from 凛として時雨／My Heroacademia 7th season Opening Movie (youtube.com)

Season 7 "Curtain Call" by Yuri 
"MY Hero Academia" 7th season Opening Movie Vol.2 / OP song : "Curtain Call" by Yuuri (youtube.com)

In this podcast episode, we discuss the persistent lack of integrity in Japanese TV media and the public's growing demand for fundamental change.

We highlight three recent incidents that illustrate the media's failure to fulfill its societal role: the cover-up of Johnny & Associates founder's lifelong sex scandal, the unethical production of a TV drama leading to an artist's suicide, and the paparazzi-like reporting of Shohei Ohtani and Major League Baseball.

The increasing public outcry for change, coupled with declining TV viewership, underscores the need for better media practices in Japan.

In this episode of Japan Edge, we explore the rising number of foreign tourist as well as residents, focusing on how the country is opening its borders like never before. 

Join us as we delve into the opportunities and challenges of a more diverse Japan, the typical avenues for non-Japanese seeking positions here, and my personal thoughts on the potential social shift as a result.

Here are some links of the institutions mentioned in the episode:
https://careerforum.net/en/

Specified Skilled Worker Visa:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/ca/fna/ssw/us/overview/

In this episode of Japan Edge, we dive into the aftermath of the Tokyo Gubernatorial Election. 

While the re-election of Yuriko Koike may not have been a surprise, the unexpected rise of independent candidate Shinji Ishimaru has sparked discussions about the future of Japanese politics. 

We’ll explore the impact of social media on voter mobilization, which supported Ishimaru's rise, and the enduring influence of special interest groups under the long-standing rule of the LDP, which allowed Koike and the LDP to maintain the status quo.

Join us as we unpack the key takeaways from this election, balancing hope for political engagement with the challenges posed by entrenched power structures.

Join us in this final episode of the Series on Tokyo Gubernatorial Election as we delve into the transformative candidacy of Shinji Ishimaru for Tokyo Governor. 
From his unexpected entry into the race to his groundbreaking approach to politics,  we explore how Ishimaru challenges the status quo in Japanese politics. 

Discover his background, his innovative vision for Tokyo's future, and the uphill battle he faces against entrenched interests and media biases.  

Will Ishimaru's campaign ignite a shift towards transparency and change, or will he remain an underdog? 

Tune in to explore the dynamics shaping Tokyo's political landscape and the potential impact of Ishimaru's candidacy on Japan's largest metropolis.

3.5

In this episode, we delve into the political journey of Renho, a formidable opposition figure challenging Japan's ruling LDP.  Renho is considered a leading contender against Yuriko Koike, the incumbent Tokyo governor seeking her third term.

Join us as we explore Renho's political career, her platform for Tokyo's governorship, and the unique challenges she faces in this high-stakes campaign. 

This is Part 2 of our three-part series on the Tokyo Gubernatorial Election. Be sure to catch up on Part 1, where we analyze Yuriko Koike's tenure and re-election bid, and stay tuned for Part 3, where we'll dive into the rise of Shinji Ishimaru, the dark horse gaining rapid momentum.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on Tokyo's political landscape and the key players vying for leadership!