government

INSIDER

[Insider] Where Will Japan’s Bruised Opposition Go After Takaichi’s Big Win?

PM Takaichi secured a supermajority in the Lower House election as the opposition fractured. What comes next for Japan’s politics?

POLITICS

Japanese Lawmaker Says Anti-Spy Law Could End Oshikatsu Culture

One lawmaker warns that proposed spy legislation could tread on a booming business in Japan: support for one's favorite idol or star.

ENVIRONMENT

Tokyo’s Plan to Charge for Garbage Service Has Some Residents Howling

Garbage fees have successfully reduced waste in West Tokyo. Here's why some residents are up in arms over the proposal.

LIVING IN JAPAN

Why Japan Hates the New “Bachelor Tax” Aimed at Reversing Population Decline

The new levy is intended to secure the country's future - but some are calling for the agency that instituted it to…

SOCIETY

Why Foreign Workers Have Become Essential to Japan’s Elderly Care System

With a dwindling workforce, Japan is increasingly dependent on foreign workers to care for its rapidly aging population.

TRAVEL

Japan’s National Museums May Institute Two-Tier Pricing for Inbound Tourists

You could pay up to three times more to visit some of Japan's best museums if their boards heed the government's call.

INSIDER

[Insider] The Biggest Threat to Japan’s Information Privacy Isn’t Foreigners – It’s USB Drives

Mie Prefecture thinks that hiring foreigners is a threat to information security. The actual risk? USB removable storage and alcohol.

LIVING IN JAPAN

Japan May Require Japanese Language Test for Permanent Residency

The Japanese government may also require applicants to take courses in Japanese culture and manners before settling in for the long haul.