CULTURE
Vacant Homes in Japan Skyrocket to Over 13% of All Homes
As Japan's population ages, it's finding itself awash in a glut of unoccupied homes - and a new report says the country…
law
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CULTURE
TRAVEL
Japan To Require ESTA for Visa-Exempt Travelers
How you travel to Japan will change in the next decade. The country says it's creating an ESTA system for visa-exempt travelers.…
FOOD
In Japan, Overpouring Konbini Coffee Could Mean Prison, Job Loss
Japan's facing a minor crime wave of people pouring more konbini coffee than they bought. And konbinis are responding - with arrests.
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 & 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.