TRAVEL
Shizuoka Wants to Toll Mt. Fuji to Curb Overtourism
To prevent overtourism, Shizuoka Prefecture wants to charge users of its three Mt. Fuji trailheads. The problem? It doesn't own them.
law
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TRAVEL
LAW & CRIME
Why Everyone in Japan Could Be Named Sato-san By 2531
In a future Japan where couples can't choose separate surnames, 2531 could be the era of the Sato-sans, one Japanese university claims.
POLITICS
Japan Accepts Record-High 300 Refugees in 2023, Still a Global Low
While it's still low compared to other countries, Japan accepted more refugee applicants last year than ever.
TRAVEL
Why Kyoto’s Gion Will Start Leveling Fines on Trespassing Tourists
As Japan wrestles with problems created by overtourism, Kyoto's Gion neighborhood decides it needs to start leveling fines.
LAW & CRIME
Day Care Worker in Japan Arrested for Fourth Time on Child Porn Charges
The multiple arrests of a daycare worker on child sexual exploitation charges highlight Japan's challenges in protecting kids.
POLITICS
Japan’s Revised Immigration Law Will Help Schoolchildren, Deport Others
Japan's new immigration law will put less of a burden on children of immigrants born in Japan - but will show others…
CULTURE
Japan Survey Finds Widespread School Discrimination Against Naturally Curly Hair
A survey of Japanese students with multiracial roots finds that many kids are changing their natural hairstyles to conform to school rules.…
BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
SOD Land, Kabukicho’s “Adult Theme Park”, Running Again After Police Shutdown
Last year, cops shut down a major adult video maker's Kabukicho bar. Now it's back - and its owner is grousing about…