Japan This Week

🚨 This week’s top Japan news stories 🚨

A tourist vandalizes the sacred Meiji Jingu Shrine torii gate 🏯

Prime Minister Ishiba faces backlash for APEC summit gaffes 🌏

Pit bull attacks spark safety concerns and calls for stricter regulations 🐕

An Australian woman claims she was tricked into smuggling drugs for love 💔

Harassment culture in Japan: Exploring 44 unique types of "hara" 🎤

Tune in for this week’s biggest and most surprising stories from Japan! 🇯🇵

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:58 Tourist crimes at sacred sites 🏯

5:42 PM Ishiba’s APEC Summit blunders 🌏

8:34 Pit bull attacks spark controversy 🐕

13:06 Australian woman’s drug smuggling case 💔

17:15 The rise of "hara" harassment terms in Japan 🎤

Don’t forget to like 👍, subscribe 🔔, and leave your thoughts in the comments!

In this edition, we cover the latest in Japanese politics, including Shigeru Ishiba’s re-election as prime minister after a rare runoff vote, a record number of women elected to Japan's parliament and the impact of a tragic car accident that has reignited concerns about elderly drivers. We also dive into a controversial crime story involving social media and victim-blaming and wrap up with results from our latest reader poll on whether Donald Trump's re-election is good news for Japan.

POLITICS: Shigeru Ishiba re-elected in runoff vote [1:01 - 3:55]

POLITICS: Women in Japanese politics: Record wins, but still a minority [3:55 - 8:11]

NATIONAL: Kagoshima car accident sparks elderly driver debate [8:11 - 11:29]

CRIME: Sexual assault case in Saitama [11:29 - 14:55]

READER POLL: Is Donald Trump’s re-election good for Japan? [14:55 - 18:13]

Results show 57% of readers think Trump’s re-election is not good for Japan, with 33% in favor and 10% undecided.

Welcome to another episode of Japan This Week, your weekly roundup of trending news stories from Japan Today for Nov. 8, 2024.

In this week's episode:

NATIONAL: Customer harassment crackdown (1:01 - 5:40)

Japan's service industry workers are facing increasing abuse from customers. Major companies like Ito-Yokado are implementing manuals and training to handle "kasuhara" and support employee well-being.

NATIONAL: Mount Fuji light rail (5:41 - 8:13)

Yamanashi Prefecture has proposed a light rail system to Mount Fuji's fifth station to manage tourist traffic and cut emissions. The project, which would run alongside the Fuji Subaru Line, is projected to cost over ¥148.6 billion (USD$960 million) and generate significant revenue. Local opposition, however, may shape the final decision.

CRIME: New cycling law penalties in Japan (8:14 - 12:50)

Revised cycling laws came into effect on Nov. 1, imposing stricter penalties for distracted or impaired riding. Jail time and hefty fines now await those caught cycling while using mobile devices or riding under the influence.

CRIME: JR West's new train safety measures (12:51 - 16:10)

In response to recent knife attacks, JR West is equipping trains with special blade-resistant umbrellas. These umbrellas are designed to help crew protect passengers and facilitate safer evacuations during emergencies.

NATIONAL: Update on missing German student (16:11 - 20:22)

The body of 21-year-old German student Claudio Worm, who went missing in Wakayama, was found off the coast of Wakayama City. Police were unable to determine the cause of death due to damage to the body.

Welcome to another episode of Japan This Week, your weekly roundup of trending news stories from Japan Today for Nov. 1, 2024.

This week, we dive into the aftermath of Japan's recent general election, which has left the ruling coalition in disarray and no party with a majority. We also explore the heated controversy around Tokyo's Jingu Gaien Park redevelopment, where trees are being cut down to make way for skyscrapers. Next, we discuss the tragic murder of a young woman at a "girls' bar" in Tokyo, shedding light on Japan's nightlife and safety concerns. Finally, Meta (Facebook and Instagram’s parent company) faces legal action in Japan over fake ads featuring celebrity endorsements for shady investment schemes. Plus, we check in on a Japan Today poll about the upcoming U.S. presidential election and how it could impact Japan. Join us for these stories and more from Japan Today!

POLITICS: Japan’s political turmoil after election [1:51 - 5:55]

Summary of Japan's recent election results, where Prime Minister Ishiba’s ruling coalition lost its majority.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito's loss of seats and impact on Japan’s political landscape.

Rising yen concerns due to political uncertainty and potential leadership changes.

Japan Today reader comments: the need for change, fresh faces in Japanese politics and public reaction to political scandals.

NATIONAL: Tree-cutting controversy in Tokyo’s Jingu Gaien Park [5:56 - 9:43]

Developers led by Mitsui Fudo-san have begun cutting trees in the historic Jingu Gaien Park to make way for skyscrapers and a new baseball stadium.

Environmentalists and local Tokyo residents protest the loss of green space, pointing out that Tokyo already has limited parks.

Tokyo Governor Yuiko Koike’s support for the redevelopment despite being a former environment minister.

Japan Today reader comments: Japan’s struggle to balance development with preserving nature and the city’s lack of accessible green spaces.

CRIME: Tragic murder at a Tokyo "girls' bar" [9:44 - 13:12]

A shocking murder at a girls' bar in Shimbashi where a 49-year-old man fatally stabbed an 18-year-old bar employee.

Details on the suspect and the victim’s prior financial disputes; background on girls' bars in Tokyo’s nightlife scene.

Japan Today reader reactions: harsh punishment and stronger safety measures in nightlife areas.

BUSINESS: Meta sued in Japan over fake ads with celebrity endorsements [13:13 - 17:50]

Meta (Facebook and Instagram) is facing lawsuits in Japan over fraudulent investment ads with fake celebrity endorsements.

Well-known Japanese figures, including billionaire Yusaku Maezawa, were featured in these misleading ads.

Plaintiffs argue that Meta failed to prevent these scams and ignored requests to remove the false ads.

Japan Today reader comments: online ad scams and the need for greater regulation of social media advertising.

JAPAN TODAY READER POLL: U.S. presidential election’s impact on Japan [17:51 - 18:23]

Results from a Japan Today poll asking readers who they believe would be a better U.S. president for Japan: Kamala Harris or Donald Trump. (Cast your vote in the link above.)

Insights from readers on how U.S. foreign policy under different leaders might affect Japan, particularly in terms of security and trade.

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In this episode, we cover the rise of organized crime and robberies in the Kanto region driven by social media apps, Japan's nuclear energy resurgence to tackle carbon emissions and a spike in used smartphone sales as consumers push back on constant new releases.

Plus, we discuss efforts to find Claudio Worm, a missing German tourist, and give listeners insight into Japan's current crime trends and tech landscape.

CRIME: Criminal part-time work (0:48 - 3:06)

Social media apps are being used to recruit individuals for illegal activities, such as home invasions. A series of violent robberies in the Kanto region has led to around 30 arrests.

NATIONAL: Nuclear energy and carbon emissions (3:06 - 5:52)

As part of its effort to reduce carbon emissions, Japan is restarting its nuclear power plants with new safety measures in place. We discuss the pros and cons of nuclear energy in Japan's energy strategy.

BUSINESS: Used smartphone trend (5:52 - 15:12)

Sales of used smartphones in Japan are booming as consumers grow tired of yearly new device releases and rising prices. Is the second-hand tech market Japan's next big trend?

BUSINESS: Pay raises (15:12 - 19:18)

Wage increases remain difficult for Japan's small- to medium-sized businesses, despite government recommendations for companies to do so.

NATIONAL: Missing German tourist PSA (19:18 - 22:13)

A 21-year-old German tourist, Claudio Worm, is missing in Wakayama Prefecture. Find out how you can help.

In this episode, Jeff covers election season in Japan, growing tensions between Taiwan and China, an atomic bomb survivors' group receiving the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize, a cross-dressing man causing a stir at a Nagoya bathhouse and readers' thoughts on odd Japanese car names. Tune in for a mix of serious news and lighter, quirky topics with commentary from readers.

Question of the week (answer in the comments): As the only nation attacked with nuclear weapons, should Japan join the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)?

In this episode, Jeff and Kong dive into stories of heartbreak, excitement and controversy — including a mother's ongoing search for her abducted daughter, Japan's #1 ranking as the best country to visit, an in-flight movie mishap and Netflix's new pro wrestling series. They also profile the British engineer who helped launch Japan railways over 150 years ago.

NATIONAL: (1:13 - 4:25) Where is Megumi?

A heartbreaking story about Megumi Yokota, abducted by North Korea at the age of 13 in 1977. Her mother, now 88, continues to push for answers as Megumi would have turned 60 this year. Despite North Korea claiming Megumi died in 1994, the family remains hopeful for her return, but little progress has been made in recent years.

NATIONAL: (4:25 - 6:26) Japan voted best country to visit by Condé Nast

For the second year in a row, Japan was voted the best country to visit by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Key attractions like cherry blossoms, Ghibli Park, and Japanese cuisine were cited as reasons. Tokyo was also ranked as the sixth friendliest city.

NATIONAL: (6:27 - 11:39) Qantas flight shows R-rated movie by mistake

Passengers on a Qantas flight from Sydney to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport were surprised when an explicit movie, Daddio, played on all screens due to a technical glitch. The movie, featuring graphic nudity, upset some families onboard. Qantas switched to a family-friendly movie mid-flight after being unable to fix the problem.

ENTERTAINMENT: (11:40 - 15:14) Netflix's new series on Japanese women's pro wrestling

The Queen of Villains, a new Netflix series, tells the story of legendary Japanese pro-wrestler Dump Matsumoto and her intense rivalry with the Crush Gals. The series highlights her larger-than-life persona and her struggles in a male-dominated industry. Actress Yuriyan Retriever spent two years training for the role, diving deep into the physical and emotional demands of professional wrestling.

WHEN THEY OPENED IN JAPAN: (16:53 - 20:40) The British engineer who helped start Japan rail travel

In 1872, Japan's first steam locomotive made its inaugural trip from Shinbashi to Yokohama, thanks to British engineer Edmund Morel. Morel faced many challenges, including opposition from samurai factions, but laid the foundation for Japan's railway system before dying of tuberculosis in 1871.

Welcome to another episode of Japan This Week, your weekly roundup of trending news stories from the Japan Today website.

This week, Jeff Richards runs solo to bring you the latest stories and reader reactions, including Japan's new prime minister Shigeru Ishiba, prices rising yet again across the country, Tokyo's Shibuya and Shinjuku districts’ expanded alcohol ban and the 60th anniversary of Japan's famous shinkansen bullet train.

POLITICS: Japan's new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba (01:03 - 06:08)

Shigeru Ishiba replaces Fumio Kishida as Japan's prime minister amid low public confidence, economic challenges and security concerns. Ishiba’s new cabinet features security-focused leaders and only two female ministers. He also plans a general election on October 27.

Key reader comments:

"Good luck to Ishiba, U.S.-Japan alliance is vital."

"The dude is clueless and incompetent."

BUSINESS: Rising prices in Japan (06:09 - 10:04)

About 3,000 food and drink items are set to rise in price across Japan — along with postal rates — due to inflation, a weaker yen and rising transportation costs. Products from companies like Asahi, Itoen and Koikeya will see price hikes starting Tuesday.

Key reader comments:

"How is it that prices go up on the same day? Collusion, anyone?"

"The government should cut taxes to ease the burden on people."

NATIONAL: Tokyo expands public drinking ban (10:05 - 13:27)

Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward introduces a year-round ban on public drinking from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m., while Shinjuku Ward passes similar measures for Kabukicho. This follows previous temporary bans during holidays like Halloween.

Key reader comments:

"The ban has no real enforcement and won't deter behavior."

"It seems the hate is more focused on tourists."

CRIME: World's longest serving death row inmate may sue Japan (13:28 - 20:59)

Iwao Hakamada, who was released after being on death row for 45 years, is considering suing the government for damages. The court found that evidence against him was fabricated and his wrongful conviction had devastating effects on his life and mental health.

Key reader comments:

"The lawsuit will be drawn out so he likely won't see compensation."

"The best compensation would be a complete overhaul of the justice system."

NATIONAL: Japan's bullet train turns 60 (21:00 - 24:50)

The Shinkansen celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. Known for its speed, reliability and precision, the iconic bullet train remains a symbol of Japanese engineering.

Key reader comments:

"Japan’s train system is unmatched globally."

"The standards are high, but at what cost for workers?"

Sept. 27, 2024 — In this episode, Jeff and Kong discuss the natural disasters plaguing the Noto Peninsula, airspace breaches of Japan by China and Russia, the latest political meeting between Prime Minister Kishida and President Joe Biden, the treatment of death-row inmates in Japan and the question of capital punishment plus an update on electric scooter traffic violations.

NATIONAL: Noto Peninsula double disasters (0:09 - 2:40)

https://japantoday.com/category/national/Search-goes-on-for-7-missing-after-floods-hit-Noto-Peninsula

Heavy rain caused floods and landslides in Ishikawa Prefecture’s Noto Peninsula. At least 11 people have died, and 6 are missing in yet another disaster for the region.

==> If you would like to help out in the Noto Peninsula due to the recovery and effects of the earthquake earlier this year and the current flooding situation, you can donate directly here: https://www.jrc.or.jp/english/donate/

Or you can visit their Noto Peninsula page here: https://www.jrc.or.jp/english/relief/2024NotoPeninsulaEarthquake.html <==

NATIONAL: Airspace breaches by China and Russia (2:41 - 6:36)

https://japantoday.com/category/national/update1-japan-says-strongly-alarmed-by-airspace-breaches-by-russia-china

Japan's Defense Minister, Minoru Kihara, expresses strong concerns over airspace breaches by China and Russia.

POLITICS: Lame duck meeting of Kishida and Biden (6:37 - 10:37)

https://japantoday.com/category/politics/update3-kishida-biden-hail-stronger-japan-u.s.-ties-in-farewell-meeting

Prime Minister Kishida and U.S. President Joe Biden had a farewell meeting in Delaware where they discussed common challenges, including China, Russia, and conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

CRIME: Death row inmates inhumane treatment in Japan (10:38 - 14:29)

https://japantoday.com/category/crime/focus-japan-criticized-as-treating-death-row-inmates-inhumanely

Growing criticism surrounds Japan's treatment of death row inmates. Inmates receive execution notifications only 1-2 hours in advance, have limited contact with family members and are kept in solitary confinement/

CRIME: Japanese police have problems with electric scooters (14:30 - 20:21)

https://japantoday.com/category/crime/more-than-25-000-electric-scooter-traffic-violations-reported-in-12-months-to-june

The National Police Agency reports over 25,000 electric scooter violations from July 2023 to June 2024

In this episode, Jeff and Kong dive into topics ranging from Japan's upcoming cannabis laws to the resurgence of whale meat in Japan and record-breaking Emmy wins for a Japanese period drama. Plus, they tackle Japan's aging population and sushi chefs earning more overseas.

Timestamps for the Main Stories:

[0:00 - 0:11] – Intro

Jeff introduces this week's key topics: new cannabis laws, whaling in Japan, population aging, Emmy wins for "Shogun," and a discussion on sushi chefs.

[0:11 - 2:05] – Criminalizing Cannabis Use in Japan

Japan will criminalize cannabis use on December 12th, with prison sentences of up to 7 years. Medical cannabis products will be legalized.

[2:05 - 5:04] – Listener Comments on Cannabis Laws

Comments from Japan Today readers: contrasting perspectives on Japan criminalizing cannabis vs. Western legalization trends.

[5:07 - 7:34] – Whaling Industry Trying to Revive Whale Meat Demand

Japan's whaling industry held a tasting event in Tokyo, offering whale meat to reignite consumer interest. We explore how whale meat consumption has changed and reader reactions.

[7:34 - 9:01] – Listener Comments on Whale Meat

A range of opinions, from nostalgia to environmental concerns, including the mention of mercury levels in whale meat.

[9:19 - 11:06] – Japan's Aging Population: 100-Year-Old Milestone

Japan now has over 95,000 centenarians, with nearly 90% of them being women. We discuss the societal implications of an aging population.

[11:06 - 13:36] – Listener Comments on Japan's Elderly Population

Readers share their personal experiences with pensions, medical expenses, and the struggles of Japan's elderly.

[13:55 - 16:45] – Shogun Miniseries Sets Emmy Records

The historical drama "Shogun" became the first non-English-language series to win Best Drama at the Emmys. Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai also won individual awards.

[16:46 - 17:32] – Listener Comments on Shogun's Emmy Success

Discussion around the cultural impact of "Shogun" and its production.

[19:59 - 23:30] – Sushi and Sushi Chefs Abroad

Exploring how Japanese sushi chefs are in high demand overseas, where they can earn more than they do in Japan. Listener reactions to the statement from the principal of a sushi academy.

[23:31 - 25:23] – Wrap-Up

Closing thoughts and a call to comment on the discussed topics. Jeff and Kong sign off and encourage listeners to stay updated with Japan Today's news.