Latest news, breaking stories, and expert analysis on Japan. Stay informed with comprehensive coverage from trusted sources.
GlobalFoundries secured up to $21 billion in funding from Japan to operate new chip plants in New York, with President Trump announcing $10 billion each for projects aimed at completion by 2029. The U.S. government is reallocating $955 million from CHIPS Act funds and taking a 4 percent stake in the company as part of the joint agreement.
Japan's industrial output fell 2.4% in August, worse than the initial estimate. This continues a trend of contraction, marking the steepest decline since January and highlighting persistent weakness in the nation's industrial sector.
A Russian court ordered pre-trial detention for Hokkaido Shimbun journalist Yuki Imai, who faces up to 20 years in prison on espionage charges. The FSB arrested him on Sakhalin Island, accusing him of gathering defense information for Japanese intelligence, while Tokyo works to clarify the situation amid strained relations.
A survey by the Japan Press Research Institute indicates that younger Japanese citizens increasingly view the United States as a greater threat to global peace than China, driven by concerns over US foreign policy under Donald Trump, marking a significant shift in regional security perceptions.
The Japan Times argues that the University of Tokyo selected Prof. Yuko Fujigaki as its first female president to rebuild public trust following bribery scandals and ethical violations by faculty members, with governance reform plans being a key selection factor.
North Korea accused Japan of having 'sinister intention' to use nuclear-powered submarines as a stepping stone toward acquiring nuclear weapons. An analyst claimed Tokyo aims to revise security documents by year-end to legitimize these moves, following statements by Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi that Japan should debate such capabilities without taboos.
The article profiles Singaporean artisan Chin Shiying, who relocated to Kyoto to establish Yanmaei, a brand producing barefoot footwear. It argues that conventional shoes distort foot anatomy and suggests that her design philosophy prioritizes natural foot movement through flexible soles and wide toe boxes.
The commentary argues that market dynamics in Japan have shifted under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with growing investor appeal for government bonds reversing the previous preference for equities. It suggests her administration's policies are reshaping capital allocation trends.
Pressure is mounting on Japan's Agriculture Minister Kazuo Yana to resign following reports he cut roadworks funding from municipalities that did not support Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. New scrutiny involves potential election law violations regarding free shuttle buses, which could disrupt parliamentary debate before the session ends.
The piece examines the complex legacy of Hakkaku and the intense behind-the-scenes power struggles within Japanese sumo wrestling. It contrasts the sport's visual spectacle with the intricate political machinations that define its current organizational challenges and future direction.