Japan News

Rescue teams in Yashio, Saitama prefecture, Japan, are racing against time to save a 74-year-old truck driver trapped in a large sinkhole since January 28. The sinkhole, measuring approximately 10 meters across and 10 meters deep, opened suddenly at an intersection, swallowing the driver and his two-ton vehicle. According to media reports, initial contact with the trapped man has ceased as water has begun to accumulate in the hole, raising concerns for his condition. Rescue efforts faced setbacks, including a second sinkhole formation on January 30, which merged with the first hole. Local authorities have evacuated residents within a 200-meter radius due to potential hazards posed by an underground gas pipe. Motohiro Ono, the governor of Saitama prefecture, expressed concerns about the possibility of further collapses, attributing the initial sinkhole to a ruptured sewage pipe. In reaction to the ongoing crisis, local officials have begun discharging wastewater into a nearby river, affecting approximately 1.2 million residents instructed to conserve water while emergency services continue their operations.

Japan has announced its refusal to fund a UN women's rights committee following calls for the country to change its male-only royal succession laws. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stated on Thursday that Japan will not proceed with a planned visit by a committee member and will suspend financial contributions, which historically range between ¥20 to ¥30 million (approximately $150,000 to $225,000) annually, to the UN High Commissioner for Women. The UN committee previously urged Japan to ensure both women and men can claim the throne, in line with practices in other monarchies. However, Japan has demanded that these recommendations be retracted, asserting that succession rights are unrelated to human rights or gender discrimination. Currently, only sons of royal fathers are eligible to become emperor, leading to concerns about succession as Emperor Naruhito’s heir is significantly older than prospective successors, with only 18-year-old Prince Hisahito as a youthful option. Despite opinion polls indicating public support for allowing female succession, traditional views remain strong, hindering parliamentary discussions on the matter.

Japanese investment group SoftBank is reportedly in discussions to invest between $15 billion and $25 billion in OpenAI, potentially making it the largest financial backer of the San Francisco-based AI startup behind ChatGPT. This claim was made by the Financial Times, stating that the deal would solidify SoftBank’s position in the burgeoning AI sector, having previously supported a funding round that valued OpenAI at $157 billion. SoftBank, led by CEO Masayoshi Son, is already an investor in OpenAI and has partnered with Oracle to launch a major initiative called Stargate, aimed at creating AI infrastructure with an initial expenditure of $100 billion. The news follows competition from a Chinese rival, DeepSeek, which recently topped app charts and caused fluctuations in AI stocks. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, maintained that the investment discussions are beneficial for the country, despite skepticism from other industry figures, including Elon Musk, regarding the funding’s viability. As of now, both OpenAI and SoftBank have declined to comment further on the negotiations.

Emergency services in Yashio City, Saitama Prefecture, are conducting a rescue operation after a large sinkhole opened up at a busy intersection, swallowing a truck with a driver inside. The incident occurred just before 10 a.m. local time on January 28, 2025. The sinkhole, estimated to be about the size of a swimming pool, measures approximately 10 meters wide and 5 meters deep. Preliminary reports indicate that the truck driver was initially conscious and able to communicate before becoming trapped under mud and sand. Rescue teams faced challenges as the sinkhole's stability deteriorated, prompting adjustments to their approach. Local officials have stated that a corroded sewer pipe beneath the area may have contributed to the sinkhole's formation. The governor of Saitama Prefecture, Motohiro Ono, indicated that sediment surrounding the pipe likely flowed into it, creating a hollow space that ultimately collapsed. As rescue efforts continue, teams are using a crane to attempt to lift the truck while also providing the driver with oxygen through a carefully drilled hole. The situation remains precarious, as there are concerns about further collapses. This incident is one of several sinkhole occurrences in Japan in recent years, underscoring ongoing infrastructure challenges. The current status of the driver has not been confirmed as rescue operations continue.

A groundbreaking study led by astronomer Minh Nguyen of the University of Tokyo reveals that advanced computational algorithms can extract crucial information from three-dimensional maps of galaxies in the universe. The research suggests that traditional methods of data analysis have suppressed vital information regarding the distribution of dark matter and energy, foundational elements in understanding the cosmos. This innovative approach, known as field-level inference (FLI), promises to enhance our knowledge of the universe's large-scale structures by examining the three-dimensional layout of galaxies rather than relying solely on two-point correlation functions. Initial tests indicated a significant improvement in detail and accuracy, opening new avenues for exploring the unseen aspects of the universe. The study, recognized in the Buchalter Cosmology Prize, will be further tested with real data from upcoming astronomical surveys and missions.

A truck and its driver fell into a large sinkhole at a busy intersection in Yashio, Japan, on Tuesday. The incident occurred around 10 am local time, with the sinkhole measuring approximately 20 feet deep and 32 feet wide. The driver was trapped for about eight hours due to the driver's seat being filled with sand and mud. Rescue teams responded promptly, setting up equipment to pump air into the hole to provide the driver with oxygen. Aerial footage showed at least 12 fire trucks on the scene as emergency personnel worked diligently to secure the area and commence the rescue operation. Initially, the driver was reported to be conscious and able to communicate with rescuers. However, as time went on, reports indicated that contact with the driver was lost. Local police have initiated an investigation to determine the underlying cause of the sinkhole, which is believed to be related to a crack in a sewer pipe in the Nakagawa River Basin. The incident has sparked concerns regarding local infrastructure, reminiscent of previous sinkhole occurrences in Japan, such as one in Hiroshima last September and another in Fukuoka in 2016, both raising questions about the safety and maintenance of municipal utilities.

Recent reports indicate that China is implementing a strategy described as a "silent invasion" of Okinawa, Japan, in preparation for a potential military action against Taiwan. Okinawa, located less than 750 kilometers from Taiwan and home to approximately 30,000 U.S. troops, is viewed as critical for any future conflict involving Taiwan. Analysts suggest that China's efforts to influence Okinawa include sowing discord among residents regarding economic challenges and historical grievances related to the annexation of the Ryukyu Kingdom in the late 19th century. Chinese state media often highlight the high concentration of U.S. military bases in Okinawa, which comprises only 0.6% of Japan's land area but houses 70% of U.S. forces in the country. Furthermore, it has been reported that Chinese officials approached ethnic Chinese residents in Okinawa with proposals to establish underground police stations, similar to those set up in other nations, but these efforts were reportedly rebuffed. Propaganda on Chinese social media has also suggested that many Okinawans favor independence, a claim countered by political leaders in the region. In addition to local outreach, Chinese diplomats have made official visits to Okinawa, aiming to strengthen ties. Some political figures, like Okinawa's Governor Denny Tamaki, have called for closer relations with China, contrasting with the broader national agenda to bolster defense capabilities in the region. The situation is further complicated by growing support for both independence and greater autonomy among Okinawan residents, with recent polls indicating a shift in public sentiment towards varying degrees of autonomy from Tokyo. Amid these developments, Japan remains vigilant to the implications that a more assertive China could have on regional security and stability.

In Tochigi Women’s Prison, Japan's largest women’s prison, an increasing number of elderly inmates are discovering a unique sense of community and care that they lack in the outside world. With one in five inmates aged 65 or older, the facility has adapted its services to cater to this aging demographic. Many elderly women, like 81-year-old inmate Akiyo, serve time for non-violent crimes such as theft. Akiyo, caught shoplifting food, reflects on her time in prison as "stable," benefiting from regular meals, free healthcare, and a sense of companionship. In fact, some women reportedly prefer prison life, expressing a willingness to pay fees to remain incarcerated. The rising elderly prison population is a stark reflection of Japan’s broader societal issues, where approximately 20% of seniors live in poverty. With limited financial resources and little support from family, many elderly individuals resort to crimes for survival. Reports indicate that theft, especially among women, constitutes the majority of crimes committed by elderly inmates. Prison officials note that the nature of incarceration has evolved, resembling more of a nursing home than a traditional prison environment. Some inmates, like Yoko, have found purpose in caregiving, assisting other elderly prisoners, while guards are called to adapt their roles to provide necessary care. Recognizing the challenges faced by elderly inmates upon release, Japanese authorities have initiated programs to support them in reintegration, aiming to reduce recidivism by offering guidance and support services. However, questions remain about the adequacy of these measures in addressing the broader issues of an aging population in Japan.

Nintendo has officially announced the Switch 2, marking the anticipated successor to its highly successful Switch console. The announcement came on January 16, 2025, following weeks of speculation and leaks. A teaser video released by the company shows the new handheld device, which resembles the original but features a larger screen and updated Joy-Con designs. In addition to the console reveal, Nintendo confirmed plans for a Direct presentation on April 2, where more details about the Switch 2 will be shared. The new handheld is designed to support both Switch 2 and existing Switch games, although some titles may not be fully compatible with the new system. The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, became one of the best-selling consoles in history, but reports indicated declining sales in 2024, prompting rumors of a new generation console. The recent announcement coincides with a changing market, particularly with competitors like Steam releasing handheld devices. As the gaming community eagerly anticipates more information about the Switch 2, it remains to be seen how the console will perform in a landscape that continues to evolve in response to new technologies and competitors.

In Japan, an increasing number of elderly women are finding themselves in prison, where some assert they feel safer and more secure than in their lives outside. The Tochigi Women’s Prison, north of Tokyo, has become a refuge for aging individuals grappling with loneliness and poverty. Many inmates, including 81-year-old Akiyo, confess that the prison offers a more stable existence, complete with regular meals and healthcare, than living alone without support. The trend of elderly incarceration has risen sharply, with the number of prisoners aged 65 and older nearly quadrupling since 2003. Theft, often motivated by financial hardship, accounts for the majority of crimes committed by these elderly women. Anecdotal evidence suggests some women purposely commit minor thefts to return to prison. As Japan faces a declining birthrate and an increasing elderly population, support for former inmates remains inadequate. Analysts highlight the need for comprehensive social support systems to prevent reoffending and ensure the elderly are cared for after their release. Government initiatives aiming to expand housing benefits and provide independent living guidance are in place but may not be sufficient to meet the growing need. Prison staff describe a shift in the nature of incarceration, with duties increasingly resembling eldercare. Authorities are recognizing the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by an aging inmate population, emphasizing the importance of community support upon reentry into society.

Nintendo experienced a significant drop in its stock value after the announcement of its much-anticipated Switch 2 console. The Japanese gaming company's shares fell nearly 6% to 8,940 yen during Tokyo trading, marking its largest daily decline in the past three months. This decrease occurred alongside a general 1.2% decline in the Nikkei 225 index. Despite the excitement surrounding the unveiling of the Switch 2 in a brief two-minute video, investor response was lukewarm due to a lack of crucial information. The video did not provide details on pricing, a game lineup, or specific features, leaving many investors unconvinced about the future prospects of the new handheld device. The Switch 2 is expected to launch in 2025 and will be a portable hybrid similar to its predecessor, featuring a larger screen and magnetically attached controllers. A new version of the popular Mario Kart was also announced, and the console will support backward compatibility with the existing Switch library. The original Switch has sold 150 million units since its launch in 2017, but declining demand has pressured Nintendo's earnings, leading the company to revise its annual profit and sales forecasts downward. The cautious market reaction to the Switch 2's announcement highlights investor worries that it will not be enough to revitalize Nintendo's declining performance.

A panel of experts in Japan has raised the likelihood of a megathrust earthquake occurring in the next 30 years to between 75% and 82%. This announcement was made on Thursday by a government-appointed expert committee. Previously, the estimated probability had been reported at 74% to 81%. If such a significant earthquake, rated at magnitude 8 or 9, were to occur, it could result in catastrophic consequences, including hundreds of thousands of fatalities, massive tsunamis, and damages amounting to billions of dollars. The report emphasizes the urgent need for preparedness amid growing concerns over seismic activity in the region.

In a remarkable tale of foresight and collaboration, Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank, secured a groundbreaking distribution agreement for the iPhone in Japan three years before its official launch. This partnership with Apple’s Steve Jobs marked a pivotal moment in the tech industry. Son, born in 1957, transformed SoftBank into a global tech investment powerhouse, becoming the world's largest venture investor with $1 trillion in assets over two decades. His notable investments include Alibaba and various Silicon Valley startups. However, in the early 2000s, he sought a game-changing product to enhance his mobile operations amid fierce competition from NTT Docomo. The relationship between Son and Jobs began in the mid-1980s and flourished over the years, culminating in a pivotal meeting in 2005. During a visit to Apple, Son presented Jobs with his concept for a mobile-enabled iPod, leading to a gentleman's agreement whereby SoftBank would receive exclusive rights to distribute the iPhone in Japan once it was developed. In March 2006, Son completed a $17 billion acquisition of Vodafone Japan, relying on Jobs' verbal assurance. Though Jobs did not finalize a written contract, he jokingly acknowledged Son's gamble. After a tightly maintained secrecy surrounding the iPhone's development, Apple launched the product in the United States in 2007, but it was not immediately compatible with Japanese networks. Despite this, Son raced to capitalize on the opportunity, ultimately becoming the leading mobile operator in Japan and expanding SoftBank's market presence. Son's successful negotiation with Jobs solidified SoftBank's position and paved the way for further acquisitions, including Sprint in 2013. As he continues to innovate in the tech field, Son now focuses on artificial intelligence, investing $500 million in OpenAI and exploring the development of groundbreaking AI devices.

Nintendo has officially announced the Switch 2, the successor to its popular hybrid handheld console, during a teaser presentation on Thursday. This new device boasts a slightly larger screen and retains a design similar to the original Switch, featuring new black and pink, as well as black and blue Joy-Cons. The company also hinted at an upcoming Mario Kart game in the brief announcement video. Scheduled for a more detailed reveal on April 2, a Nintendo Direct presentation will provide additional information on the Switch 2. According to Nintendo, the new console will be compatible with both Switch 2 and select original Switch games; however, the company noted that not all original titles may work seamlessly with the new device. Originally launched in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has become one of the best-selling consoles in history, ranking third behind the DS and PlayStation 2. However, sales had started to decline by 2024, prompting speculation about a next-generation console. Last year's announcements about upcoming games set the stage for this new release, which arrives amid increasing competition in the gaming market, including handheld options like the Steam Deck and potential new devices from Microsoft.

Peter Schiff, chief economist at Euro Pacific Capital, issues a stark warning about the potential implications of rising yields in Japan’s government bond market, which are nearing 1.25% on the 10-year Japanese Government Bond (JGB). Schiff suggests that if yields surpass 2%, it could trigger a considerable bond market crash, causing a "financial tsunami" that may severely impact U.S. markets. Currently, there is debate among analysts regarding the future of yields. While Schiff is pessimistic, predicting a rapid increase leading to a market collapse, JPMorgan’s head of technical strategy, Jason Hunter, offers a more optimistic perspective, suggesting that yields may stabilize within a range of 1.24-1.315% in the coming weeks. His insights provide a glimmer of hope for investors concerned about the impact of Japanese market volatility on global financial stability. The Bank of Japan is under pressure to maintain economic growth while managing inflation, which has complicated its approach to rising yields. As eyes remain on Japan's financial landscape, analysts continue to evaluate how these developments might reverberate through international markets, especially in the United States.

A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan's Kyushu region on January 13, 2025, at approximately 21:19 local time. The earthquake, which occurred offshore roughly 18 kilometers from Miyazaki prefecture at a depth of 36 kilometers, prompted the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a tsunami warning. The JMA cautioned that tsunami waves could reach heights of up to one meter, advising residents to avoid coastal areas. Two small tsunamis measuring around 20 centimeters were reported at local ports, although no immediate injuries or significant damage were recorded. Broadcasts from NHK showed calm seas, functioning vessels, and normal traffic in the aftermath of the quake. Japan, situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," experiences about 1,500 earthquakes annually, with many being minor. The recent quake comes almost a year after a devastating 7.5-magnitude earthquake in January 2024, which resulted in nearly 470 fatalities, primarily among elderly residents. Japan's strict building regulations and emergency preparedness drills aim to mitigate the impact of such seismic events. Tuesday’s earthquake is under investigation for potential links to previous seismic activity in the area, as Japan continues to contend with the risks associated with tectonic movements.

A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan late on Monday, prompting local authorities to issue a tsunami advisory. According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred off Miyazaki prefecture in the Kyushu region at approximately 21:19 PM local time. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) advised that tsunami waves of up to one meter could potentially follow the quake and urged the public to steer clear of coastal waters. Although the USGS initially reported the quake as a magnitude of 6.9, they later revised it downward to 6.8, also stating, "there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake." Despite the revision, the JMA emphasized the unpredictability of tsunami movements, encouraging residents to avoid entering the sea and coastal areas, noting that "tsunami can strike repeatedly."

A hammer attack at Hosei University's Tama Campus in Tokyo on Friday resulted in injuries to eight individuals. The assailant, a 22-year-old female sociology student, was arrested at the scene, according to Japanese media reports. Witnesses described seeing victims with bleeding injuries to their heads. Reports indicate that the student expressed feelings of frustration at being overlooked prior to the incident. All injured individuals were reported to be conscious and receiving care. The police have not yet confirmed detailed aspects of this rare violent crime in Japan, known for its strict gun control regulations. Live footage revealed a significant emergency response at the campus, highlighting the severity of the situation. Instances of violent crime in Japan, while infrequent, have included stabbings and other attacks in public places. Notably, in December 2022, a junior high school student was fatally stabbed at a McDonald's in Kitakyushu. Hosei University, established in 1880 as a law school, continues to serve thousands of students across various faculties.

Takeshi Ebisawa, a prominent leader of the Japanese Yakuza, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the trafficking of nuclear materials sourced from Myanmar. U.S. authorities reported that Ebisawa conspired to sell weapons-grade nuclear material with intentions to fund an illicit arms deal. Previously charged with drug trafficking and firearms offenses in April 2022, Ebisawa faced additional charges in February 2024 for conspiring to sell both nuclear materials and narcotics from Myanmar. Prosecutors claim that the nuclear materials included weapons-grade plutonium, purportedly aimed for use by Iran in developing nuclear capabilities. In court, acting U.S. Attorney Edward Kim stated that Ebisawa “brazenly trafficked” nuclear material along with heroin and methamphetamine, intending to exchange them for heavy weaponry, including surface-to-air missiles. Ebisawa reportedly provided evidence of his access to nuclear materials, showing photographs alongside Geiger counters indicating radiation levels. Law enforcement operations, aided by Thai authorities, resulted in the seizure of substances Ebisawa labeled as “yellowcake,” a uranium concentrate. The Justice Department confirmed that the plutonium found was indeed weapons-grade. Ebisawa, 60, faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison for his actions. Prosecutors characterized him as a leader of a highly organized, transnational criminal network known for extensive narcotics and weapons trafficking. Sentencing will be determined at a future hearing.

Takeshi Ebisawa, a prominent leader of the Japanese Yakuza, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the trafficking of nuclear materials from Myanmar, which U.S. authorities allege were intended for use in Iran's nuclear weapons program. The 60-year-old criminal figure was initially charged in April 2022 with drug trafficking and firearms offenses before facing additional charges in February 2024 for conspiring to sell weapons-grade nuclear material. In court, Ebisawa admitted to trafficking nuclear substances including weapons-grade plutonium and uranium, while also attempting to exchange large quantities of narcotics such as heroin and methamphetamine in return for military armaments, including surface-to-air missiles. The U.S. Justice Department highlighted that Ebisawa had access to significant quantities of nuclear materials, as evidenced by his discussions with undercover agents and seizure of materials during a sting operation. The indictment further revealed that Ebisawa had plans to funnel profits from the nuclear sales into purchasing arms for an unnamed insurgent group in Myanmar. He could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for his international trafficking activities. As a leader of the Yakuza—a notorious organized crime syndicate—Ebisawa is implicated in extensive global criminal behavior, including narcotics and weapons trafficking. Sentencing for his guilty plea has yet to be scheduled by the court.

Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world's oldest person by Guinness World Records, has passed away at the age of 116. An official from the city of Ashiya reported that she died on December 29 at a care home in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka lived a vibrant life characterized by her love for bananas and a popular Japanese beverage called Calpis. She became the oldest person following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas last year. Itooka often expressed her surprise and gratitude when informed of her status as the oldest living person. A high school volleyball player, she was known for her active lifestyle, having climbed Mount Ontake twice. Throughout her life, Itooka managed her husband's textile factory during World War II and lived alone in Nara after his passing in 1979. She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A funeral service was held for family and friends to honor her memory. As of her passing, the title of the world’s oldest person has now moved to 116-year-old Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born just 16 days after Itooka.

Scientists have successfully pinpointed the origin of a massive volcanic eruption that occurred in 1831, a mystery that persisted for nearly two centuries. The Zavaritskii volcano on Simushir Island, part of the Kuril Islands north of Japan, was responsible for this event, which released significant amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, resulting in a drop in global temperatures by approximately 1°C. Historically, the fallout from the eruption caused widespread crop failures and famines, yet the volcano's exact location remained unidentified, with theories suggesting places as diverse as the Philippines and Sicily. This breakthrough was led by William Hutchison, a volcanologist from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland, whose team analyzed ice core samples from Greenland. The methodology involved extracting minute ash fragments from the ice cores, where they identified sulfur isotopes and volcanic glass shards dated to the time of the eruption. Through detailed analysis and computer modeling, they traced the ash's trajectory back to the northwestern Pacific Ocean, leading to the conclusion that it was emitted from the Zavaritskii volcano. Hutchison expressed excitement over the cross-national collaboration that enabled this discovery, which included comparing the ash deposits from the ice core with samples from various Kuril Islands volcanoes. While the eruption's impact was severe, resulting in a caldera formation in the volcano, the absence of any reports or records of the event remains a point of intrigue for researchers. Future research aims to explore historical records from Russian and Japanese archives to reveal any mentions of the eruption or its atmospheric effects.

Shigemi Fukahori, a prominent survivor of the 1945 atomic bombing of Nagasaki, passed away at a hospital in Nagasaki on January 3 at the age of 93. He devoted his life to advocating for peace and opposing nuclear weapons, championing the memory of those lost in the bombing, including members of his own family. Fukahori was just 14 years old when the atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, an event that resulted in countless casualties. For years, he struggled to speak about his traumatic experiences until meeting another survivor during a visit to Spain inspired him to share his story. He famously recounted hearing cries for help during the aftermath, a memory that stayed with him throughout his life. He became known for his advocacy work, often addressing students and urging them to take up the "baton of peace." Fukahori participated in notable moments, such as presenting a wreath to Pope Francis during his visit to Nagasaki in 2019, and pledging that Nagasaki would be the last place ever subjected to an atomic attack. Funeral services for Fukahori are planned to be held at Urakami Church, a significant location near the bomb's ground zero, where he prayed regularly. His commitment to peace and remembrance will leave a lasting legacy.

Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world's oldest person, has passed away at the age of 116. She died on December 29 at a nursing home in Ashiya, Japan, where she had lived since 2019. Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka celebrated her 116th birthday just last August. Itooka had a family of four children and five grandchildren, and she was known for her resilience, having lived through significant historical events, including world wars and pandemics. In a statement, Ashiya's mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, expressed gratitude for the courage and hope Itooka inspired during her long life. With her passing, Japan's demographic challenge remains in focus, as the nation continues to face an aging population. As of September, over 95,000 individuals in Japan were centenarians, with women constituting 88% of that number. Nearly a third of Japan’s 124 million people are now aged 65 or older.