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<title>Konnichiwa Today &#45; : HEADLINES</title>
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<description>Konnichiwa Today &#45; : HEADLINES</description>
<dc:language>en</dc:language>
<dc:rights>Copyright 2025 Konnichiwa Today News &#45; All Rights Reserved.</dc:rights>

<item>
<title>How Samurai Culture Shaped Aichi’s Fermented Food Traditions</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/how-samurai-culture-shaped-aichis-fermented-food-traditions</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/how-samurai-culture-shaped-aichis-fermented-food-traditions</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The Strategic Soul of Aichi Aichi’s soul is not found so much  in grand sights, but more in the deep, resonant umami of its fermented foods: a flavor forged by the samurai class. During the intense Sengoku and Edo periods, fermentation was more than just flavor; it was a strategic necessity, a “power bar” for warriors on long campaigns. This military need directly birthed the “red food culture” that Aichi is celebrated for today. The values of self-sufficiency and frugality were centered around the samurai class, shared throughout Edo society, and this social background fostered a manufacturing culture that avoided wasting raw materials or by-products. One example of this is […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>How, Samurai, Culture, Shaped, Aichi’s, Fermented, Food, Traditions</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Strategic Soul of Aichi Aichi’s soul is not found so much  in grand sights, but more in the deep, resonant umami of its fermented foods: a flavor forged by the samurai class. During the intense Sengoku and Edo periods, fermentation was more than just flavor; it was a strategic necessity, a “power bar” for warriors on long campaigns. This military need directly birthed the “red food culture” that Aichi is celebrated for today. The values of self-sufficiency and frugality were centered around the samurai class, shared throughout Edo society, and this social background fostered a manufacturing culture that avoided wasting raw materials or by-products. One example of this is […]]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Find Your Inner Calm: A Journey of Mindfulness Rooted in the Ancient Cycles of Ise&#45;Shima</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/find-your-inner-calm-a-journey-of-mindfulness-rooted-in-the-ancient-cycles-of-ise-shima</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/find-your-inner-calm-a-journey-of-mindfulness-rooted-in-the-ancient-cycles-of-ise-shima</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Ise-Shima ‒ Timeless Cycles of Nature and Human　　　　　 The Ise-Shima region has two main characteristics. One is the deep history and culture centered on Ise Jingu (Shinto shrine), and the other is the beautiful coastline and many small islands. The sea provides us with blessings, spiny lobster, abalone, pearls as well as breathtaking ocean views, while many believe Ise Jingu is the spiritual heart for the Japanese people. In Ise-Shima, time does not simply pass – it cycles, renews, and breathes. Here, the pure waters of ancient forests flow into the bountiful Pacific, nurturing 2,000 years of Ama diving traditions and exquisite pearls. This is a place where rituals, nature, […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:01:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Find, Your, Inner, Calm:, Journey, Mindfulness, Rooted, the, Ancient, Cycles, Ise-Shima</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Ise-Shima ‒ Timeless Cycles of Nature and Human　　　　　 The Ise-Shima region has two main characteristics. One is the deep history and culture centered on Ise Jingu (Shinto shrine), and the other is the beautiful coastline and many small islands. The sea provides us with blessings, spiny lobster, abalone, pearls as well as breathtaking ocean views, while many believe Ise Jingu is the spiritual heart for the Japanese people. In Ise-Shima, time does not simply pass – it cycles, renews, and breathes. Here, the pure waters of ancient forests flow into the bountiful Pacific, nurturing 2,000 years of Ama diving traditions and exquisite pearls. This is a place where rituals, nature, […]]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Protected: Find Your Inner Calm: A Journey of Mindfulness Rooted in the Ancient Cycles of Ise&#45;Shima</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-find-your-inner-calm-a-journey-of-mindfulness-rooted-in-the-ancient-cycles-of-ise-shima</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-find-your-inner-calm-a-journey-of-mindfulness-rooted-in-the-ancient-cycles-of-ise-shima</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ There is no excerpt because this is a protected post. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:05:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Protected:, Find, Your, Inner, Calm:, Journey, Mindfulness, Rooted, the, Ancient, Cycles, Ise-Shima</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Nagoya’s Samurai&#45;Era Craftmanship: A Foodie’s Guide to Enjoy Aichi’s Fermented Cuisine</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/nagoyas-samurai-era-craftmanship-a-foodies-guide-to-enjoy-aichis-fermented-cuisine</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/nagoyas-samurai-era-craftmanship-a-foodies-guide-to-enjoy-aichis-fermented-cuisine</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Why Nagoya Is a Paradise for Fermentation Lovers Nagoya is sometimes described as a city people pass through rather than stop in, despite it being Japan’s 4th largest city. But for travelers interested in food, that reputation quickly becomes hard to understand. This is one of Japan’s most important regions for fermented foods, and its culinary identity is deeply shaped by centuries of brewing, aging, and microbial craftsmanship. Aichi Prefecture produces many of the fermented staples that underpin Japanese cuisine: miso, soy sauce (including tamari and white soy sauce), vinegar, sake, mirin, and pickles. These are not niche specialties, but foundational ingredients that quietly define Japanese cooking at every level. […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:53:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Nagoya’s, Samurai-Era, Craftmanship:, Foodie’s, Guide, Enjoy, Aichi’s, Fermented, Cuisine</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Why Nagoya Is a Paradise for Fermentation Lovers Nagoya is sometimes described as a city people pass through rather than stop in, despite it being Japan’s 4th largest city. But for travelers interested in food, that reputation quickly becomes hard to understand. This is one of Japan’s most important regions for fermented foods, and its culinary identity is deeply shaped by centuries of brewing, aging, and microbial craftsmanship. Aichi Prefecture produces many of the fermented staples that underpin Japanese cuisine: miso, soy sauce (including tamari and white soy sauce), vinegar, sake, mirin, and pickles. These are not niche specialties, but foundational ingredients that quietly define Japanese cooking at every level. […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>The Red Jewel of Saitama: A Gourmet Escape into the World of the Amarin Strawberry</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/the-red-jewel-of-saitama-a-gourmet-escape-into-the-world-of-the-amarin-strawberry</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/the-red-jewel-of-saitama-a-gourmet-escape-into-the-world-of-the-amarin-strawberry</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ There is a specific kind of magic found in the Japanese countryside during the winter months. While the air is crisp and the fields are quiet, inside the warm, sun-drenched greenhouses of Saitama Prefecture, a vibrant red treasure is reaching its peak. This is the home of the Amarin strawberry, a fruit so exceptionally sweet and rare that it has redefined what a “perfect” berry might be. Beyond the Supermarket: The “Ultra-Premium” Experience For many, a strawberry is a simple snack, often requiring a dip in condensed milk or maybe some chocolate to reach peak, dessert-worthy sweetness. The Amarin changes that narrative entirely. Boasting a sugar content nearly 1.5 times […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:05:08 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>The, Red, Jewel, Saitama:, Gourmet, Escape, into, the, World, the, Amarin, Strawberry</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[There is a specific kind of magic found in the Japanese countryside during the winter months. While the air is crisp and the fields are quiet, inside the warm, sun-drenched greenhouses of Saitama Prefecture, a vibrant red treasure is reaching its peak. This is the home of the Amarin strawberry, a fruit so exceptionally sweet and rare that it has redefined what a “perfect” berry might be. Beyond the Supermarket: The “Ultra-Premium” Experience For many, a strawberry is a simple snack, often requiring a dip in condensed milk or maybe some chocolate to reach peak, dessert-worthy sweetness. The Amarin changes that narrative entirely. Boasting a sugar content nearly 1.5 times […]]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Protected: Nagoya’s Samurai&#45;Era Craftmanship: A Foodie’s Guide to Enjoy Aichi’s Fermented Cuisine</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-nagoyas-samurai-era-craftmanship-a-foodies-guide-to-enjoy-aichis-fermented-cuisine</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-nagoyas-samurai-era-craftmanship-a-foodies-guide-to-enjoy-aichis-fermented-cuisine</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ There is no excerpt because this is a protected post. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:05:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Protected:, Nagoya’s, Samurai-Era, Craftmanship:, Foodie’s, Guide, Enjoy, Aichi’s, Fermented, Cuisine</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Protected: The Red Jewel of Saitama: A Gourmet Escape into the World of the Amarin Strawberry</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-the-red-jewel-of-saitama-a-gourmet-escape-into-the-world-of-the-amarin-strawberry</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/protected-the-red-jewel-of-saitama-a-gourmet-escape-into-the-world-of-the-amarin-strawberry</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ There is no excerpt because this is a protected post. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:41:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Protected:, The, Red, Jewel, Saitama:, Gourmet, Escape, into, the, World, the, Amarin, Strawberry</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Izenajima, Okinawa: A Quiet Island Where the Spirit of the Ryukyu Kingdom Still Lives</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/izenajima-okinawa-a-quiet-island-where-the-spirit-of-the-ryukyu-kingdom-still-lives</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/izenajima-okinawa-a-quiet-island-where-the-spirit-of-the-ryukyu-kingdom-still-lives</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Far out in the blue seas of southwest Japan lie a chain of verdant islands. Among them, Okinawa stands out with a culture refreshingly unique next to mainland Japan’s. Once a busy “maritime crossroads” connecting China, Southeast Asia, and Japan via culture and trade, Okinawa welcomed many influences and established a unique culture of its own. Sacred sites called utaki and uganjō can still be found throughout the islands, where people prayed for good harvests and honored their ancestors. Izenajima: a small island surrounded by a shimmering emerald sea, and one of the best places to feel this original Okinawan spirit. It takes about one to two hours by car […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:51:33 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Izenajima, Okinawa:, Quiet, Island, Where, the, Spirit, the, Ryukyu, Kingdom, Still, Lives</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Far out in the blue seas of southwest Japan lie a chain of verdant islands. Among them, Okinawa stands out with a culture refreshingly unique next to mainland Japan’s. Once a busy “maritime crossroads” connecting China, Southeast Asia, and Japan via culture and trade, Okinawa welcomed many influences and established a unique culture of its own. Sacred sites called utaki and uganjō can still be found throughout the islands, where people prayed for good harvests and honored their ancestors. Izenajima: a small island surrounded by a shimmering emerald sea, and one of the best places to feel this original Okinawan spirit. It takes about one to two hours by car […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Why Stay in Hachioji Instead of Central Tokyo?</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/why-stay-in-hachioji-instead-of-central-tokyo</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/why-stay-in-hachioji-instead-of-central-tokyo</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Easy Access and Peaceful Nights If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, your first instinct might be to look for hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station, and maybe Odaiba or Roppongi. But there’s another option many travelers overlook: Hachioji. Located on the western edge of Tokyo, Hachioji offers easy train access to downtown while providing a relaxed, more affordable, and less tourist-heavy base for your stay. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses surrounded by nature, it’s a part of Tokyo that blends convenience, comfort, and local charm. And with direct limousine buses from Haneda Airport, getting there couldn’t be easier. And once you’re off the bus with your luggage, […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:51:30 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Why, Stay, Hachioji, Instead, Central, Tokyo</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Easy Access and Peaceful Nights If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, your first instinct might be to look for hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station, and maybe Odaiba or Roppongi. But there’s another option many travelers overlook: Hachioji. Located on the western edge of Tokyo, Hachioji offers easy train access to downtown while providing a relaxed, more affordable, and less tourist-heavy base for your stay. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses surrounded by nature, it’s a part of Tokyo that blends convenience, comfort, and local charm. And with direct limousine buses from Haneda Airport, getting there couldn’t be easier. And once you’re off the bus with your luggage, […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Day Trips from Hachioji: Mt. Fuji, Mt. Takao, and Lakes, Wrapped in Tradition</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/day-trips-from-hachioji-mt-fuji-mt-takao-and-lakes-wrapped-in-tradition</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/day-trips-from-hachioji-mt-fuji-mt-takao-and-lakes-wrapped-in-tradition</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Discover Nature, History, and Adventure, All Within Easy Reach of Tokyo Using Hachioji as your travel base opens up a world of adventure just outside Tokyo. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and historical sites, it’s an excellent hub for exploring western Tokyo and nearby natural attractions. This two-day model itinerary highlights the strengths of Hachioji’s surroundings: a mix of hiking, history, scenic lakes, and Mt. Fuji; perfect for travelers who want to balance exploration and relaxation. Day 1: Mt. Takao, Lake Sagami, Traditional Lunch, and more Embark on an unforgettable journey from Hachioji, blending the serenity of nature with profound cultural experiences. This guide will help you discover moments of tranquil […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:51:27 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Day, Trips, from, Hachioji:, Mt., Fuji, Mt., Takao, and, Lakes, Wrapped, Tradition</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Discover Nature, History, and Adventure, All Within Easy Reach of Tokyo Using Hachioji as your travel base opens up a world of adventure just outside Tokyo. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and historical sites, it’s an excellent hub for exploring western Tokyo and nearby natural attractions. This two-day model itinerary highlights the strengths of Hachioji’s surroundings: a mix of hiking, history, scenic lakes, and Mt. Fuji; perfect for travelers who want to balance exploration and relaxation. Day 1: Mt. Takao, Lake Sagami, Traditional Lunch, and more Embark on an unforgettable journey from Hachioji, blending the serenity of nature with profound cultural experiences. This guide will help you discover moments of tranquil […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Hachioji for Solo Travelers: Safe, Quiet &amp;amp; Authentic</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/hachioji-for-solo-travelers-safe-quiet-authentic</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/hachioji-for-solo-travelers-safe-quiet-authentic</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Mt. Takao isn’t just a scenic hiking destination near Tokyo; it’s a place where nature and spirituality have coexisted for centuries. Because of Japan’s ancient mountain worship traditions known as “Shugendo,” Takao’s forests and other nature have been carefully protected and revered long before the concept of “sustainability” ever existed. The mountain is home to Yakuo-in Temple, where monks still practice centuries-old rituals, and visitors can experience the calm atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for generations. The charm of Hachioji lies in its quiet connection to culture and history rather than in surface-level sightseeing. Travelers can discover the ruins of Hachioji Castle, a peaceful forest site that once played a […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:51:23 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Hachioji, for, Solo, Travelers:, Safe, Quiet, Authentic</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Mt. Takao isn’t just a scenic hiking destination near Tokyo; it’s a place where nature and spirituality have coexisted for centuries. Because of Japan’s ancient mountain worship traditions known as “Shugendo,” Takao’s forests and other nature have been carefully protected and revered long before the concept of “sustainability” ever existed. The mountain is home to Yakuo-in Temple, where monks still practice centuries-old rituals, and visitors can experience the calm atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for generations. The charm of Hachioji lies in its quiet connection to culture and history rather than in surface-level sightseeing. Travelers can discover the ruins of Hachioji Castle, a peaceful forest site that once played a […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Goto, Fukue: Where the Last Samurai Castle Meets the Ocean</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/goto-fukue-where-the-last-samurai-castle-meets-the-ocean</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/goto-fukue-where-the-last-samurai-castle-meets-the-ocean</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Discover Fukue Island: A Hidden Gem of Japanese History and Serenity The Goto Islands, gracefully situated off the coast of Nagasaki, are a realm of dazzling natural beauty and profound history. Fukue Island, the archipelago’s gateway, invites travelers to step away from the bustle of modern life and, surprisingly, delve into the very final chapter of the Samurai era. This is your invitation to explore the timeless history of Fukue Castle and wander the dramatic silence of the samurai residential streets. Fukue Castle: The Last Bastion of the Samurai Spirit Fukue Castle holds a unique place in Japanese history. It was completed in 1863, just five years before the Meiji […] ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:51:20 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Goto, Fukue:, Where, the, Last, Samurai, Castle, Meets, the, Ocean</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Discover Fukue Island: A Hidden Gem of Japanese History and Serenity The Goto Islands, gracefully situated off the coast of Nagasaki, are a realm of dazzling natural beauty and profound history. Fukue Island, the archipelago’s gateway, invites travelers to step away from the bustle of modern life and, surprisingly, delve into the very final chapter of the Samurai era. This is your invitation to explore the timeless history of Fukue Castle and wander the dramatic silence of the samurai residential streets. Fukue Castle: The Last Bastion of the Samurai Spirit Fukue Castle holds a unique place in Japanese history. It was completed in 1863, just five years before the Meiji […]]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan, Belgium Celebrate 160th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-belgium-celebrate-160th-anniversary-of-diplomatic-ties</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-belgium-celebrate-160th-anniversary-of-diplomatic-ties</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Brussels, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Japan and Belgium held the opening ceremony for events commemorating the 160th anniversary of their diplomatic relations at the Egmont Palace in Brussels on Tuesday.     About 250 guests, including government officials, business leaders and representatives from the education and cultural sectors of both countries, attended the ceremony, which featured performance... ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:07:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Belgium, Celebrate, 160th, Anniversary, Diplomatic, Ties</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Brussels, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Japan and Belgium held the opening ceremony for events commemorating the 160th anniversary of their diplomatic relations at the Egmont Palace in Brussels on Tuesday.     About 250 guests, including government officials, business leaders and representatives from the education and cultural sectors of both countries, attended the ceremony, which featured performance...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>BOJ&amp;apos;s December Rate Hike Reflected Concerns over Weak Yen</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/bojs-december-rate-hike-reflected-concerns-over-weak-yen</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/bojs-december-rate-hike-reflected-concerns-over-weak-yen</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan&#039;s decision at a monetary policy meeting in December to raise its policy rate to 0.75 pct reflected concerns over higher inflation stemming from a weak yen, according to the minutes of the meeting released on Wednesday.     A member of the central bank&#039;s Policy Board said at the Dec. 18-19 meeting that Japan&#039;s inflation-adjusted real policy interest... ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>BOJs, December, Rate, Hike, Reflected, Concerns, over, Weak, Yen</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan's decision at a monetary policy meeting in December to raise its policy rate to 0.75 pct reflected concerns over higher inflation stemming from a weak yen, according to the minutes of the meeting released on Wednesday.     A member of the central bank's Policy Board said at the Dec. 18-19 meeting that Japan's inflation-adjusted real policy interest...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>3 Firms to Consolidate Ethylene Production in Western Japan</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/3-firms-to-consolidate-ethylene-production-in-western-japan</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/3-firms-to-consolidate-ethylene-production-in-western-japan</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., Asahi Kasei Corp. and Mitsui Chemicals Inc. have said they will consolidate their ethylene production facilities in western Japan as early as fiscal 2030.    Specifically, the ethylene production facility in Kurashiki in the western prefecture of Okayama, which is operated by Mitsubishi Chemical and Asahi Kasei, will end operations.    Mit... ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:07:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Firms, Consolidate, Ethylene, Production, Western, Japan</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., Asahi Kasei Corp. and Mitsui Chemicals Inc. have said they will consolidate their ethylene production facilities in western Japan as early as fiscal 2030.    Specifically, the ethylene production facility in Kurashiki in the western prefecture of Okayama, which is operated by Mitsubishi Chemical and Asahi Kasei, will end operations.    Mit...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>BOJ Bulldozes Massive Easing despite Little Yield in Late 2015: Minutes</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/boj-bulldozes-massive-easing-despite-little-yield-in-late-2015-minutes</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/boj-bulldozes-massive-easing-despite-little-yield-in-late-2015-minutes</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan forced ahead unprecedented qualitative and quantitative easing despite its failure to overcome deflation in the country more than two years after the introduction of the massive easing policy, the minutes of the central bank&#039;s Policy Board meetings in the second half of 2015 showed Wednesday.     When the bank adopted the policy in April 2013 under... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:07:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>BOJ, Bulldozes, Massive, Easing, despite, Little, Yield, Late, 2015:, Minutes</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan forced ahead unprecedented qualitative and quantitative easing despite its failure to overcome deflation in the country more than two years after the introduction of the massive easing policy, the minutes of the central bank's Policy Board meetings in the second half of 2015 showed Wednesday.     When the bank adopted the policy in April 2013 under...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>2026 POLLS: Ex&#45;PM Suga Urges LDP to Keep Promises with JIP</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-ex-pm-suga-urges-ldp-to-keep-promises-with-jip</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-ex-pm-suga-urges-ldp-to-keep-promises-with-jip</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, of which he was a member lawmaker, to make sure that its promises with its new coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, are implemented without fail.     The LDP, which &quot;has a short history of ties with the JIP, should not forget to implement its promises (with the par... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2944065/2944065.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:04:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>2026, POLLS:, Ex-PM, Suga, Urges, LDP, Keep, Promises, with, JIP</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, of which he was a member lawmaker, to make sure that its promises with its new coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, are implemented without fail.     The LDP, which "has a short history of ties with the JIP, should not forget to implement its promises (with the par...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>2026 POLLS: Tax, Inflation Most Common Topics in Social Media Posts</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-tax-inflation-most-common-topics-in-social-media-posts</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-tax-inflation-most-common-topics-in-social-media-posts</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Consumption tax and rising prices were the most frequently mentioned issues on social media ahead of the upcoming House of Representatives election, an analysis by Jiji Press has found.     Posts made on X, formerly Twitter, between Jan. 9--when the possibility of a snap election for the lower chamber of the Diet, Japan&#039;s parliament, was first reported--and Sunday w... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2944071/2944071.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>2026, POLLS:, Tax, Inflation, Most, Common, Topics, Social, Media, Posts</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 27 (Jiji Press)--Consumption tax and rising prices were the most frequently mentioned issues on social media ahead of the upcoming House of Representatives election, an analysis by Jiji Press has found.     Posts made on X, formerly Twitter, between Jan. 9--when the possibility of a snap election for the lower chamber of the Diet, Japan's parliament, was first reported--and Sunday w...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>35&#45;Year&#45;Old Independent Elected Fukui Governor for 1st Time</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/35-year-old-independent-elected-fukui-governor-for-1st-time</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/35-year-old-independent-elected-fukui-governor-for-1st-time</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Fukui, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--A 35-year-old independent candidate has been elected governor of Fukui Prefecture, central Japan, after his predecessor resigned for sexual harassment against prefectural government workers.     Takato Ishida, a former official at Japan&#039;s Foreign Ministry, won his first term in Sunday&#039;s Fukui gubernatorial election, becoming the youngest incumbent prefectural govern... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2943376/2943376.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>35-Year-Old, Independent, Elected, Fukui, Governor, for, 1st, Time</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Fukui, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--A 35-year-old independent candidate has been elected governor of Fukui Prefecture, central Japan, after his predecessor resigned for sexual harassment against prefectural government workers.     Takato Ishida, a former official at Japan's Foreign Ministry, won his first term in Sunday's Fukui gubernatorial election, becoming the youngest incumbent prefectural govern...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Ex&#45;Tokyo Univ. Associate Prof. Referred to Prosecutors</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/ex-tokyo-univ-associate-prof-referred-to-prosecutors</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/ex-tokyo-univ-associate-prof-referred-to-prosecutors</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo police sent papers to prosecutors Monday on a former specially appointed associate professor at the University of Tokyo&#039;s graduate school for allegedly receiving bribes in exchange for favors related to a joint research project.     The Metropolitan Police Department&#039;s Second Investigation Division suspects the 46-year-old former specially appointed associate ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2943355/2943355.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:01:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ex-Tokyo, Univ., Associate, Prof., Referred, Prosecutors</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo police sent papers to prosecutors Monday on a former specially appointed associate professor at the University of Tokyo's graduate school for allegedly receiving bribes in exchange for favors related to a joint research project.     The Metropolitan Police Department's Second Investigation Division suspects the 46-year-old former specially appointed associate ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>TEPCO to Cut 3.1&#45;T.&#45;Yen Costs over 10 Yrs under New Biz Plan</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-to-cut-31-t-yen-costs-over-10-yrs-under-new-biz-plan</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-to-cut-31-t-yen-costs-over-10-yrs-under-new-biz-plan</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government Monday approved Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc.&#039;s new business turnaround plan, including cuts of 3.1 trillion yen in costs over the decade from fiscal 2025.    TEPCO said the cost cuts will be achieved through business streamlining, reduced investment and asset sales. It plans to sell about 200 billion yen in assets, mainly shares... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2943402/2943402.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:01:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>TEPCO, Cut, 3.1-T.-Yen, Costs, over, Yrs, under, New, Biz, Plan</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government Monday approved Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc.'s new business turnaround plan, including cuts of 3.1 trillion yen in costs over the decade from fiscal 2025.    TEPCO said the cost cuts will be achieved through business streamlining, reduced investment and asset sales. It plans to sell about 200 billion yen in assets, mainly shares...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Chubu Electric HQ Inspection Starts over N&#45;Plant Data Fraud</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/chubu-electric-hq-inspection-starts-over-n-plant-data-fraud</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/chubu-electric-hq-inspection-starts-over-n-plant-data-fraud</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Nagoya, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s Nuclear Regulation Authority on Monday began an on-site inspection of Chubu Electric Power Co.&#039;s headquarters over earthquake risk data fraud linked to the firm&#039;s Hamaoka nuclear power plant in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan.     During the inspection of the Chubu Electric headquarters in Nagoya, the capital of Aichi Prefecture, west of Shizuoka, the nu... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2943498/2943498.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Chubu, Electric, Inspection, Starts, over, N-Plant, Data, Fraud</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Nagoya, Jan. 26 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority on Monday began an on-site inspection of Chubu Electric Power Co.'s headquarters over earthquake risk data fraud linked to the firm's Hamaoka nuclear power plant in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan.     During the inspection of the Chubu Electric headquarters in Nagoya, the capital of Aichi Prefecture, west of Shizuoka, the nu...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan Parties Gear Up for Election in 1st Weekend since Dissolution</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-parties-gear-up-for-election-in-1st-weekend-since-dissolution</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-parties-gear-up-for-election-in-1st-weekend-since-dissolution</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese political parties began gearing up in earnest for the upcoming House of Representatives election on Saturday, the first weekend since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the lower chamber of the Diet, the country&#039;s parliament, the day before.     Takayuki Kobayashi, policy chief of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, said at a press conference in the c... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942808/2942808.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:07:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Parties, Gear, for, Election, 1st, Weekend, since, Dissolution</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese political parties began gearing up in earnest for the upcoming House of Representatives election on Saturday, the first weekend since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the lower chamber of the Diet, the country's parliament, the day before.     Takayuki Kobayashi, policy chief of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, said at a press conference in the c...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Tokyo Univ. Professor Arrested over Bribery Tied to Joint Research</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tokyo-univ-professor-arrested-over-bribery-tied-to-joint-research</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tokyo-univ-professor-arrested-over-bribery-tied-to-joint-research</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo police on Saturday arrested a 62-year-old professor at the University of Tokyo&#039;s Graduate School of Medicine on suspicion of accepting bribes related to a joint research project.     Shinichi Sato, from Tokyo&#039;s Bunkyo Ward, was arrested by Tokyo&#039;s Metropolitan Police Department for allegedly receiving entertainment worth some 1.8 million yen across about 30 se... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942780/2942780.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Tokyo, Univ., Professor, Arrested, over, Bribery, Tied, Joint, Research</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo police on Saturday arrested a 62-year-old professor at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Medicine on suspicion of accepting bribes related to a joint research project.     Shinichi Sato, from Tokyo's Bunkyo Ward, was arrested by Tokyo's Metropolitan Police Department for allegedly receiving entertainment worth some 1.8 million yen across about 30 se...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Takaichi Denies Issuing Deficit Bonds for Consumption Tax Cut</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-denies-issuing-deficit-bonds-for-consumption-tax-cut</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-denies-issuing-deficit-bonds-for-consumption-tax-cut</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Saturday denied the possibility of newly issuing deficit-covering government bonds to realize a zero consumption tax rate on food items.     &quot;If it (the tax cut) is limited to two years, we can certainly manage without issuing special deficit-financing bonds,&quot; Takaichi, also president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942836/2942836.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:07:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Takaichi, Denies, Issuing, Deficit, Bonds, for, Consumption, Tax, Cut</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Saturday denied the possibility of newly issuing deficit-covering government bonds to realize a zero consumption tax rate on food items.     "If it (the tax cut) is limited to two years, we can certainly manage without issuing special deficit-financing bonds," Takaichi, also president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Senior Pentagon Official to Visit Japan, S. Korea</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/senior-pentagon-official-to-visit-japan-s-korea</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/senior-pentagon-official-to-visit-japan-s-korea</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Washington, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Elbridge Colby, U.S. undersecretary of defense for policy, will soon visit Japan and South Korea, the Defense Department said Saturday.     The No. 3 Pentagon official will hold talks with senior government officials in both countries.    The department said Colby will promote President Donald Trump&#039;s peace through strength initiative.    Colby led the developm... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/528/1451356/1451356.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:07:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Senior, Pentagon, Official, Visit, Japan, Korea</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Washington, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Elbridge Colby, U.S. undersecretary of defense for policy, will soon visit Japan and South Korea, the Defense Department said Saturday.     The No. 3 Pentagon official will hold talks with senior government officials in both countries.    The department said Colby will promote President Donald Trump's peace through strength initiative.    Colby led the developm...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Takaichi Seeks Public Mandate for Policy Shifts</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-seeks-public-mandate-for-policy-shifts</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-seeks-public-mandate-for-policy-shifts</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Friday she wants to secure a fresh public mandate through a snap general election to advance shifts in key policies.     Earlier in the day, the Takaichi cabinet issued a statement following the dissolution of the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of the Diet, the country&#039;s parliament.    Given that the prime min... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:04:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Takaichi, Seeks, Public, Mandate, for, Policy, Shifts</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Friday she wants to secure a fresh public mandate through a snap general election to advance shifts in key policies.     Earlier in the day, the Takaichi cabinet issued a statement following the dissolution of the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of the Diet, the country's parliament.    Given that the prime min...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>1,230 People Plan to Seek Japan Lower House Seats</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/1230-people-plan-to-seek-japan-lower-house-seats</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/1230-people-plan-to-seek-japan-lower-house-seats</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--A total of about 1,230 people are planning to run in the Feb. 8 election for Japan&#039;s House of Representatives, fewer than the 1,334 candidates in the previous 2024 Lower House election, a Jiji Press survey showed Friday.     The latest figure includes some 300 potential female candidates.    There may be more contestants for the 465 seats up for grabs in the snap ge... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942580/2942580.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:04:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>1, 230, People, Plan, Seek, Japan, Lower, House, Seats</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--A total of about 1,230 people are planning to run in the Feb. 8 election for Japan's House of Representatives, fewer than the 1,334 candidates in the previous 2024 Lower House election, a Jiji Press survey showed Friday.     The latest figure includes some 300 potential female candidates.    There may be more contestants for the 465 seats up for grabs in the snap ge...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Consumers Voice Inflation Worries ahead of General Election</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/consumers-voice-inflation-worries-ahead-of-general-election</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/consumers-voice-inflation-worries-ahead-of-general-election</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese consumers have expressed worries about rising prices of goods ahead of the Feb. 8 general election for the House of Representatives, the all-important lower chamber of the Diet, the country&#039;s parliament.     A 31-year-old company worker who visited midsize supermarket chain Akidai&#039;s main store in Tokyo&#039;s Nerima Ward with her children, aged zero and 4, said ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942626/2942626.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Consumers, Voice, Inflation, Worries, ahead, General, Election</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japanese consumers have expressed worries about rising prices of goods ahead of the Feb. 8 general election for the House of Representatives, the all-important lower chamber of the Diet, the country's parliament.     A 31-year-old company worker who visited midsize supermarket chain Akidai's main store in Tokyo's Nerima Ward with her children, aged zero and 4, said ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>2026 POLLS: Election&#45;Related Biz Rushing to Prepare for Lower House Poll</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-election-related-biz-rushing-to-prepare-for-lower-house-poll</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-election-related-biz-rushing-to-prepare-for-lower-house-poll</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Election-related businesses in Japan are scrambling to prepare for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election, which is set to be held just 16 days after the lower chamber of the Diet, the country&#039;s parliament, was dissolved.     The 16-day window is the shortest lead-up to a general election since the end of World War II, and businesses are receiving an influx of... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942659/2942659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:04:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>2026, POLLS:, Election-Related, Biz, Rushing, Prepare, for, Lower, House, Poll</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 24 (Jiji Press)--Election-related businesses in Japan are scrambling to prepare for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election, which is set to be held just 16 days after the lower chamber of the Diet, the country's parliament, was dissolved.     The 16-day window is the shortest lead-up to a general election since the end of World War II, and businesses are receiving an influx of...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Share of Univ. Students in Japan Accepting Informal Job Offers Rises</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/share-of-univ-students-in-japan-accepting-informal-job-offers-rises</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/share-of-univ-students-in-japan-accepting-informal-job-offers-rises</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The share of university students in Japan graduating in March who have accepted informal job offers increased 0.3 point from a year earlier to 84.6 pct as of Dec. 1, the labor and education ministries said Friday.     By sex, 83.3 pct of male students obtained informal job offers, the same level as a year before, while the share of female students rose 0.7 point to ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942393/2942393.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:46:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Share, Univ., Students, Japan, Accepting, Informal, Job, Offers, Rises</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The share of university students in Japan graduating in March who have accepted informal job offers increased 0.3 point from a year earlier to 84.6 pct as of Dec. 1, the labor and education ministries said Friday.     By sex, 83.3 pct of male students obtained informal job offers, the same level as a year before, while the share of female students rose 0.7 point to ...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>3 Die, 12 Injured in Heavy Snow in Japan</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/3-die-12-injured-in-heavy-snow-in-japan</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/3-die-12-injured-in-heavy-snow-in-japan</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Heavy snow mainly pounding the Sea of Japan coast since Tuesday has left three people dead and 12 others injured.     According to data compiled by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency as of Friday morning, one person died in each of the cities of Uonuma, Nagaoka and Sado in the central prefecture of Niigata.    The injuries were reported in prefectures including... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:46:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Die, Injured, Heavy, Snow, Japan</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Heavy snow mainly pounding the Sea of Japan coast since Tuesday has left three people dead and 12 others injured.     According to data compiled by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency as of Friday morning, one person died in each of the cities of Uonuma, Nagaoka and Sado in the central prefecture of Niigata.    The injuries were reported in prefectures including...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>S. Korean Remembered 25 Yrs after Death in Tokyo Tragedy</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/s-korean-remembered-25-yrs-after-death-in-tokyo-tragedy</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/s-korean-remembered-25-yrs-after-death-in-tokyo-tragedy</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--A memorial service was held Friday morning at a Tokyo railway station to mark nearly 25 years since the death of a South Korean student who was hit by a train while trying to save a Japanese man.     Lee Soo-hyun, then 26, was killed while trying to rescue the man who fell onto the tracks under the influence at Shin-Okubo Station of East Japan Railway Co., or JR Eas... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942372/2942372.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:37:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Korean, Remembered, Yrs, after, Death, Tokyo, Tragedy</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--A memorial service was held Friday morning at a Tokyo railway station to mark nearly 25 years since the death of a South Korean student who was hit by a train while trying to save a Japanese man.     Lee Soo-hyun, then 26, was killed while trying to rescue the man who fell onto the tracks under the influence at Shin-Okubo Station of East Japan Railway Co., or JR Eas...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan to Accept Up to 1.23 M. Foreign Workers through FY 2028</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-to-accept-up-to-123-m-foreign-workers-through-fy-2028</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-to-accept-up-to-123-m-foreign-workers-through-fy-2028</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government said Friday that it will accept up 1,231,900 foreign workers for five years through the end of fiscal 2028 under specified skilled worker residency and skill development programs.     The government added linen supply, distribution and warehousing, and resources recycling to the list of job sectors in which such foreign workers are allowed to... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942366/2942366.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:28:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Accept, 1.23, Foreign, Workers, through, 2028</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government said Friday that it will accept up 1,231,900 foreign workers for five years through the end of fiscal 2028 under specified skilled worker residency and skill development programs.     The government added linen supply, distribution and warehousing, and resources recycling to the list of job sectors in which such foreign workers are allowed to...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Science Tokyo Becomes 2nd Univ. Eligible for State Aid</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/science-tokyo-becomes-2nd-univ-eligible-for-state-aid</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/science-tokyo-becomes-2nd-univ-eligible-for-state-aid</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s education ministry Friday certified the Institute of Science Tokyo as the second university eligible for receiving aid from a government-financed 10-trillion-yen fund aimed at supporting universities.     The Institute of Science Tokyo is expected to receive over 10 billion yen in subsidies in the first year after approval of a plan to strengthen its researc... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942293/2942293.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Science, Tokyo, Becomes, 2nd, Univ., Eligible, for, State, Aid</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japan's education ministry Friday certified the Institute of Science Tokyo as the second university eligible for receiving aid from a government-financed 10-trillion-yen fund aimed at supporting universities.     The Institute of Science Tokyo is expected to receive over 10 billion yen in subsidies in the first year after approval of a plan to strengthen its researc...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>2026 POLLS: LDP to Slam Centrists in Election as Unfit to Govern</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-ldp-to-slam-centrists-in-election-as-unfit-to-govern</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-ldp-to-slam-centrists-in-election-as-unfit-to-govern</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Shunichi Suzuki, secretary-general of Japan&#039;s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has said that his party will question the newly formed Centrist Reform Alliance&#039;s ability to govern during the campaign period for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election.     In a recent interview with Jiji Press and other news outlets, the LDP executive criticized the Centrist Refo... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942296/2942296.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>2026, POLLS:, LDP, Slam, Centrists, Election, Unfit, Govern</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Shunichi Suzuki, secretary-general of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has said that his party will question the newly formed Centrist Reform Alliance's ability to govern during the campaign period for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election.     In a recent interview with Jiji Press and other news outlets, the LDP executive criticized the Centrist Refo...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Japan Govt Vehicle May Have Caused Fatal Accident</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-govt-vehicle-may-have-caused-fatal-accident</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-govt-vehicle-may-have-caused-fatal-accident</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese police are investigating a fatal accident in Tokyo on Thursday involving an official vehicle of the Cabinet Office, suspecting the driver ignored a red light.     The six-car accident occurred at around 6:30 p.m. Thursday at an intersection in the capital&#039;s Akasaka district, killing Noboru Akashi, a 32-year-old taxi passenger, and injuring eight others, acc... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942309/2942309.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:01:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Govt, Vehicle, May, Have, Caused, Fatal, Accident</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese police are investigating a fatal accident in Tokyo on Thursday involving an official vehicle of the Cabinet Office, suspecting the driver ignored a red light.     The six-car accident occurred at around 6:30 p.m. Thursday at an intersection in the capital's Akasaka district, killing Noboru Akashi, a 32-year-old taxi passenger, and injuring eight others, acc...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan Plans Stricter Rules to Address Foreigner&#45;Linked Issues</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-plans-stricter-rules-to-address-foreigner-linked-issues</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-plans-stricter-rules-to-address-foreigner-linked-issues</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government adopted a package of measures Friday to address problems related to foreign nationals, including planned stricter rules on their acquisitions of Japanese land and nationality.     The government will decide an outline of legal rules relating to land acquisitions by foreign nationals by summer, according to the package, approved at a meeting o... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2942317/2942317.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Plans, Stricter, Rules, Address, Foreigner-Linked, Issues</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government adopted a package of measures Friday to address problems related to foreign nationals, including planned stricter rules on their acquisitions of Japanese land and nationality.     The government will decide an outline of legal rules relating to land acquisitions by foreign nationals by summer, according to the package, approved at a meeting o...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>2026 POLLS: DPFP Chief Tamaki to Assess New Centrist Party</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-dpfp-chief-tamaki-to-assess-new-centrist-party</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/2026-polls-dpfp-chief-tamaki-to-assess-new-centrist-party</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the opposition Democratic Party for the People, has indicated that he will carefully assess developments surrounding a new party formed by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and Komeito, also opposition parties, before deciding whether to cooperate with it after the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election.     Asked about the po... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2941761/2941761.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:43:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>2026, POLLS:, DPFP, Chief, Tamaki, Assess, New, Centrist, Party</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the opposition Democratic Party for the People, has indicated that he will carefully assess developments surrounding a new party formed by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and Komeito, also opposition parties, before deciding whether to cooperate with it after the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election.     Asked about the po...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>JIP Pushes Secondary Capital Plan in Election Pledges</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/jip-pushes-secondary-capital-plan-in-election-pledges</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/jip-pushes-secondary-capital-plan-in-election-pledges</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--The Japan Innovation Party on Wednesday released its pledges for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election, featuring plans to realize early passage of legislation to establish a secondary capital to curb Tokyo&#039;s overconcentration.     The JIP, the junior coalition partner of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, listed Osaka, Fukuoka and Sapporo as candidate loca... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2941407/2941407.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>JIP, Pushes, Secondary, Capital, Plan, Election, Pledges</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--The Japan Innovation Party on Wednesday released its pledges for the Feb. 8 House of Representatives election, featuring plans to realize early passage of legislation to establish a secondary capital to curb Tokyo's overconcentration.     The JIP, the junior coalition partner of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, listed Osaka, Fukuoka and Sapporo as candidate loca...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Takaichi Meets with Forced Sterilization Victims</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-meets-with-forced-sterilization-victims</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-meets-with-forced-sterilization-victims</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi mentioned the government&#039;s responsibility in her meeting with victims of forced sterilization conducted under the country&#039;s now-defunct eugenics law.    &quot;The government&#039;s responsibility is extremely grave,&quot; Takaichi said when she met with the victims at the prime minister&#039;s office on Wednesday. &quot;We want you all to receive compe... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2941545/2941545.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Takaichi, Meets, with, Forced, Sterilization, Victims</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi mentioned the government's responsibility in her meeting with victims of forced sterilization conducted under the country's now-defunct eugenics law.    "The government's responsibility is extremely grave," Takaichi said when she met with the victims at the prime minister's office on Wednesday. "We want you all to receive compe...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan, EU to Affirm Cooperation for Stable Critical Mineral Supplies</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-eu-to-affirm-cooperation-for-stable-critical-mineral-supplies</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-eu-to-affirm-cooperation-for-stable-critical-mineral-supplies</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s industry minister Ryosei Akazawa and European Commission executive vice-president for prosperity and industrial strategy Stephane Sejourne have reaffirmed their cooperation to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, such as rare earths.     At a press conference following his meeting with Sejourne in Switzerland on Wednesday, Akazawa said that the two a... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:07:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Affirm, Cooperation, for, Stable, Critical, Mineral, Supplies</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--Japan's industry minister Ryosei Akazawa and European Commission executive vice-president for prosperity and industrial strategy Stephane Sejourne have reaffirmed their cooperation to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, such as rare earths.     At a press conference following his meeting with Sejourne in Switzerland on Wednesday, Akazawa said that the two a...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Abe Shooter&amp;apos;s Ill&#45;Fated Background Denied as Key Factor</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/abe-shooters-ill-fated-background-denied-as-key-factor</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/abe-shooters-ill-fated-background-denied-as-key-factor</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Nara, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese court ruling that sentenced the man who fatally shot former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to life in prison denies that the man&#039;s ill-fated family background was a key factor that drove him to commit the act.     In its ruling on Wednesday against defendant Tetsuya Yamagami, 45, Nara District Court made no mention of &quot;abuse related to religion,&quot; which his defe... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2941717/2941717.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:07:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Abe, Shooters, Ill-Fated, Background, Denied, Key, Factor</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Nara, Jan. 22 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese court ruling that sentenced the man who fatally shot former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to life in prison denies that the man's ill-fated family background was a key factor that drove him to commit the act.     In its ruling on Wednesday against defendant Tetsuya Yamagami, 45, Nara District Court made no mention of "abuse related to religion," which his defe...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan&amp;apos;s Emperor, Empress May Visit Belgium, Netherlands in June</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japans-emperor-empress-may-visit-belgium-netherlands-in-june</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japans-emperor-empress-may-visit-belgium-netherlands-in-june</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako are expected to make official goodwill visits to Belgium and the Netherlands in June, with arrangements underway following invitations from both European countries, government sources said Wednesday.     The Imperial Family has long-standing ties with the Belgian and Dutch royal families. This year, Japan and Belgium mark ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:49:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japans, Emperor, Empress, May, Visit, Belgium, Netherlands, June</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako are expected to make official goodwill visits to Belgium and the Netherlands in June, with arrangements underway following invitations from both European countries, government sources said Wednesday.     The Imperial Family has long-standing ties with the Belgian and Dutch royal families. This year, Japan and Belgium mark ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>CDP&amp;apos;s Azumi, Komeito&amp;apos;s Nakano to Be New Party&amp;apos;s Secretaries&#45;General</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/cdps-azumi-komeitos-nakano-to-be-new-partys-secretaries-general</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/cdps-azumi-komeitos-nakano-to-be-new-partys-secretaries-general</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Jun Azumi, secretary-general of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, and Komeito acting secretary-general Hiromasa Nakano will become secretaries-general of the Centrist Reform Alliance, a new party formed by the CDP and Komeito ahead of the Feb. 8 general election, it was learned Wednesday.     CDP leader Yoshihiko Noda and Komeito leader T... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2940867/2940867.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:04:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>CDPs, Azumi, Komeitos, Nakano, New, Partys, Secretaries-General</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Jun Azumi, secretary-general of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, and Komeito acting secretary-general Hiromasa Nakano will become secretaries-general of the Centrist Reform Alliance, a new party formed by the CDP and Komeito ahead of the Feb. 8 general election, it was learned Wednesday.     CDP leader Yoshihiko Noda and Komeito leader T...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Mitsubishi Motors to Promote Kishiura to President and COO</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/mitsubishi-motors-to-promote-kishiura-to-president-and-coo</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/mitsubishi-motors-to-promote-kishiura-to-president-and-coo</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Mitsubishi Motors Corp. plans to promote Corporate Officer Keisuke Kishiura to president and chief operating officer, people familiar with the matter said Wednesday.    Takao Kato, current president and CEO of the Japanese automaker, will become chairman and CEO.    The appointments will take effect on April 1.    Under the new leadership, the company aims to addres... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:04:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Mitsubishi, Motors, Promote, Kishiura, President, and, COO</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 21 (Jiji Press)--Mitsubishi Motors Corp. plans to promote Corporate Officer Keisuke Kishiura to president and chief operating officer, people familiar with the matter said Wednesday.    Takao Kato, current president and CEO of the Japanese automaker, will become chairman and CEO.    The appointments will take effect on April 1.    Under the new leadership, the company aims to addres...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Shinomiya&amp;apos;s Anime Film &amp;quot;A New Dawn&amp;quot; Selected for Berlin Competition</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/shinomiyas-anime-film-a-new-dawn-selected-for-berlin-competition</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/shinomiyas-anime-film-a-new-dawn-selected-for-berlin-competition</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Berlin, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--Japanese director Yoshitoshi Shinomiya&#039;s animated film &quot;A New Dawn&quot; has been selected for the competition category at this year&#039;s Berlin International Film Festival.     The selection, announced on Tuesday, marks the first time in three years that a Japanese film will compete for the Golden Bear award at one of the world&#039;s three major film festivals, following anim... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2940959/2940959.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Shinomiyas, Anime, Film, New, Dawn, Selected, for, Berlin, Competition</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Berlin, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--Japanese director Yoshitoshi Shinomiya's animated film "A New Dawn" has been selected for the competition category at this year's Berlin International Film Festival.     The selection, announced on Tuesday, marks the first time in three years that a Japanese film will compete for the Golden Bear award at one of the world's three major film festivals, following anim...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Tsutsui Named New Head of Tokyo Police</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tsutsui-named-new-head-of-tokyo-police</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tsutsui-named-new-head-of-tokyo-police</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government has decided to appoint Hiroki Tsutsui, head of the security bureau of the National Police Agency, to replace Yuji Sakoda as chief of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.     The appointment, which will take effect on Friday, was approved at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.    Tsutsui, 56, spearheaded security operations for the 2025 World E... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2940200/2940200.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:01:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Tsutsui, Named, New, Head, Tokyo, Police</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government has decided to appoint Hiroki Tsutsui, head of the security bureau of the National Police Agency, to replace Yuji Sakoda as chief of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.     The appointment, which will take effect on Friday, was approved at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.    Tsutsui, 56, spearheaded security operations for the 2025 World E...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Heavy Snowfall Expected on Sea of Japan Side from Wed.</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/heavy-snowfall-expected-on-sea-of-japan-side-from-wed</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/heavy-snowfall-expected-on-sea-of-japan-side-from-wed</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--Heavy snow is expected mainly along the Sea of Japan coast, due to a strong winter pressure pattern from Wednesday through Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said Tuesday.     The agency warned of possible traffic disruptions and avalanches, as an influx of cold air could bring heavy snowfall to regions ranging from the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido to th... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Heavy, Snowfall, Expected, Sea, Japan, Side, from, Wed.</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 20 (Jiji Press)--Heavy snow is expected mainly along the Sea of Japan coast, due to a strong winter pressure pattern from Wednesday through Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said Tuesday.     The agency warned of possible traffic disruptions and avalanches, as an influx of cold air could bring heavy snowfall to regions ranging from the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido to th...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>CEO Fraud Up Sharply in Japan</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/ceo-fraud-up-sharply-in-japan</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/ceo-fraud-up-sharply-in-japan</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Japanese companies are facing quickly growing threats of so-called business executive scams, or CEO fraud, in which email directives are issued by those pretending to be top executives of target companies.     Small and medium-sized firms tend to fall to prey, as executives and rank-and-file employees are closely knit there compared with larger companies. So far, a ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2939754/2939754.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:43:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>CEO, Fraud, Sharply, Japan</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Japanese companies are facing quickly growing threats of so-called business executive scams, or CEO fraud, in which email directives are issued by those pretending to be top executives of target companies.     Small and medium-sized firms tend to fall to prey, as executives and rank-and-file employees are closely knit there compared with larger companies. So far, a ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>LDP to Lift Election Penalty on &amp;quot;Slush Fund&amp;quot; Members</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/ldp-to-lift-election-penalty-on-slush-fund-members</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/ldp-to-lift-election-penalty-on-slush-fund-members</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s ruling Liberal Democratic Party will lift an election penalty on party members involved in the party&#039;s slush fund scandal, it was learned Sunday.     In the next general election, the LDP will allow these members to be listed on the party&#039;s proportional representation lists while running for constituency seats, according to party sources.    Amid public crit... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2939283/2939283.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:07:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>LDP, Lift, Election, Penalty, Slush, Fund, Members</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party will lift an election penalty on party members involved in the party's slush fund scandal, it was learned Sunday.     In the next general election, the LDP will allow these members to be listed on the party's proportional representation lists while running for constituency seats, according to party sources.    Amid public crit...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>3 Japan Convenience Store Operators Log Profit Growth in March&#45;Nov.</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/3-japan-convenience-store-operators-log-profit-growth-in-march-nov</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/3-japan-convenience-store-operators-log-profit-growth-in-march-nov</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Three major Japanese convenience store operators posted growth in their group operating profits for March-November 2025, according to their earnings reports.    Seven &amp; i Holdings Co., the operator of industry leader Seven-Eleven Japan Co., saw its operating profit in the nine-month period rise 3.1 pct from a year before to 325 billion yen, reflecting brisk performa... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Convenience, Store, Operators, Log, Profit, Growth, March-Nov.</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Three major Japanese convenience store operators posted growth in their group operating profits for March-November 2025, according to their earnings reports.    Seven & i Holdings Co., the operator of industry leader Seven-Eleven Japan Co., saw its operating profit in the nine-month period rise 3.1 pct from a year before to 325 billion yen, reflecting brisk performa...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Valentine&amp;apos;s Day Sales Campaigns in Japan Feature Experiences</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/valentines-day-sales-campaigns-in-japan-feature-experiences</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/valentines-day-sales-campaigns-in-japan-feature-experiences</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Department store operators and confectionery makers are trying to ride a wave of the Valentine&#039;s Day-related shopping binge in Japan by offering products and services featuring experiences, highly valued by consumers these days.     The Matsuya Ginza department store, run by Matsuya Co., is selling chocolate containing &quot;pismaniye,&quot; a traditional Turkish dessert in f... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2939715/2939715.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:07:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Valentines, Day, Sales, Campaigns, Japan, Feature, Experiences</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 19 (Jiji Press)--Department store operators and confectionery makers are trying to ride a wave of the Valentine's Day-related shopping binge in Japan by offering products and services featuring experiences, highly valued by consumers these days.     The Matsuya Ginza department store, run by Matsuya Co., is selling chocolate containing "pismaniye," a traditional Turkish dessert in f...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>TEPCO Reports Error at Kashiwazaki&#45;Kariwa Nuclear Plant</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-reports-error-at-kashiwazaki-kariwa-nuclear-plant</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-reports-error-at-kashiwazaki-kariwa-nuclear-plant</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. said Saturday that an alert system did not work during a test operation prior to the restart of the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant in Niigata Prefecture on the day.     The company is working to identify the cause of the problem, but failure to resolve it soon may affect its plan to restart the reacto... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2026 15:04:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>TEPCO, Reports, Error, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, Nuclear, Plant</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. said Saturday that an alert system did not work during a test operation prior to the restart of the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant in Niigata Prefecture on the day.     The company is working to identify the cause of the problem, but failure to resolve it soon may affect its plan to restart the reacto...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Concerns Spread in Snowy Areas over Wintertime Election</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/concerns-spread-in-snowy-areas-over-wintertime-election</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/concerns-spread-in-snowy-areas-over-wintertime-election</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--People in snowy regions in Japan are concerned about a snap election for the House of Representatives that is likely to be held on Feb. 8, in the middle of winter.     It will be the first general election held so soon after the start of a new year in 36 years. The official campaign period for the anticipated election is expected to begin on Jan. 27.    In these reg... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2939121/2939121.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2026 15:04:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Concerns, Spread, Snowy, Areas, over, Wintertime, Election</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--People in snowy regions in Japan are concerned about a snap election for the House of Representatives that is likely to be held on Feb. 8, in the middle of winter.     It will be the first general election held so soon after the start of a new year in 36 years. The official campaign period for the anticipated election is expected to begin on Jan. 27.    In these reg...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Major Parties Other than JIP to Skip Osaka Double Election</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/major-parties-other-than-jip-to-skip-osaka-double-election</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/major-parties-other-than-jip-to-skip-osaka-double-election</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Osaka, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--Major Japanese political parties other than the Japan Innovation Party are expected not to participate in the upcoming double election for the governor of Osaka Prefecture and the mayor of Osaka, the prefecture&#039;s capital.     The ruling Liberal Democratic Party&#039;s Osaka prefectural chapter decided Saturday not to field candidates in the gubernatorial and mayoral race... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2026 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Major, Parties, Other, than, JIP, Skip, Osaka, Double, Election</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Osaka, Jan. 18 (Jiji Press)--Major Japanese political parties other than the Japan Innovation Party are expected not to participate in the upcoming double election for the governor of Osaka Prefecture and the mayor of Osaka, the prefecture's capital.     The ruling Liberal Democratic Party's Osaka prefectural chapter decided Saturday not to field candidates in the gubernatorial and mayoral race...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>China Seen Building New Structure in East China Sea</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/china-seen-building-new-structure-in-east-china-sea</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/china-seen-building-new-structure-in-east-china-sea</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese Foreign Ministry said Friday that it has confirmed moves by China to build a new structure on the Chinese side of the median line between the two countries in the East China Sea.     &quot;It is extremely regrettable that China is advancing unilateral development in the East China Sea, while the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf in the East C... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:01:14 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>China, Seen, Building, New, Structure, East, China, Sea</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese Foreign Ministry said Friday that it has confirmed moves by China to build a new structure on the Chinese side of the median line between the two countries in the East China Sea.     "It is extremely regrettable that China is advancing unilateral development in the East China Sea, while the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf in the East C...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Ex&#45;PM Suga Announces Retirement as Lawmaker</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/ex-pm-suga-announces-retirement-as-lawmaker</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/ex-pm-suga-announces-retirement-as-lawmaker</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Yokohama, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday announced his decision not to run in the next House of Representatives election.     &quot;I&#039;ve been considering the timing of retiring as a lawmaker since I turned 70,&quot; Suga told reporters in Yokohama, south of Tokyo. &quot;I will now give way to the next generation.&quot;    Suga was first elected to the Lower House in... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2938923/2938923.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:01:11 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ex-PM, Suga, Announces, Retirement, Lawmaker</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Yokohama, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday announced his decision not to run in the next House of Representatives election.     "I've been considering the timing of retiring as a lawmaker since I turned 70," Suga told reporters in Yokohama, south of Tokyo. "I will now give way to the next generation."    Suga was first elected to the Lower House in...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan&amp;apos;s Foreign Ministry Advises against Travel to Iran</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japans-foreign-ministry-advises-against-travel-to-iran</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japans-foreign-ministry-advises-against-travel-to-iran</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s Foreign Ministry has raised its travel alert on Iran to the highest level, advising Japanese citizens not to travel to the country for any purpose, in light of heightened tension there due to anti-regime protests.     The ministry also calls on Japanese nationals in Iran to leave the country immediately if it is safe to do so, while securing their own safety... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:01:08 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japans, Foreign, Ministry, Advises, against, Travel, Iran</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Foreign Ministry has raised its travel alert on Iran to the highest level, advising Japanese citizens not to travel to the country for any purpose, in light of heightened tension there due to anti-regime protests.     The ministry also calls on Japanese nationals in Iran to leave the country immediately if it is safe to do so, while securing their own safety...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>CDP&amp;apos;s Noda Likely to Be PM Candidate of New Centrist Party</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/cdps-noda-likely-to-be-pm-candidate-of-new-centrist-party</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/cdps-noda-likely-to-be-pm-candidate-of-new-centrist-party</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, is likely to be the prime minister candidate of the Centrist Reform Alliance, a new party jointly formed by the CDP and Komeito, a former member of the ruling bloc.     Noda &quot;has served as prime minister and implemented major policies,&quot; Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito said on a telev... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2938933/2938933.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:01:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>CDPs, Noda, Likely, Candidate, New, Centrist, Party</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, is likely to be the prime minister candidate of the Centrist Reform Alliance, a new party jointly formed by the CDP and Komeito, a former member of the ruling bloc.     Noda "has served as prime minister and implemented major policies," Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito said on a telev...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan to Survey Safety Management at Sauna Facilities</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-to-survey-safety-management-at-sauna-facilities</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-to-survey-safety-management-at-sauna-facilities</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Japan&#039;s health ministry has asked local governments across the country to survey safety management at sauna facilities following a fatal accident in Tokyo last December, Jiji Press learned Saturday.     In a notice dated Wednesday, the ministry requested that a total of 157 prefectural governments and municipalities with public health centers report survey results b... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2938938/2938938.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Survey, Safety, Management, Sauna, Facilities</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 17 (Jiji Press)--Japan's health ministry has asked local governments across the country to survey safety management at sauna facilities following a fatal accident in Tokyo last December, Jiji Press learned Saturday.     In a notice dated Wednesday, the ministry requested that a total of 157 prefectural governments and municipalities with public health centers report survey results b...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Japan Farm Minister Visits Paris for Rice Exports</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-farm-minister-visits-paris-for-rice-exports</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-farm-minister-visits-paris-for-rice-exports</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Paris, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--Japanese agriculture minister Norikazu Suzuki has inspected &quot;onigiri&quot; rice ball and Japanese food shops, as well as local supermarkets, in Paris as he hopes to expand Japanese rice exports.     During his inspection Thursday, Suzuki said that many stores in the French capital &quot;sell sushi and onigiri just as a matter of course.&quot;    &quot;We&#039;ll make strong sales efforts an... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2938350/2938350.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:07:06 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Farm, Minister, Visits, Paris, for, Rice, Exports</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Paris, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--Japanese agriculture minister Norikazu Suzuki has inspected "onigiri" rice ball and Japanese food shops, as well as local supermarkets, in Paris as he hopes to expand Japanese rice exports.     During his inspection Thursday, Suzuki said that many stores in the French capital "sell sushi and onigiri just as a matter of course."    "We'll make strong sales efforts an...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>JAW to Seek Pay Hike of at Least 12,000 Yen</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/jaw-to-seek-pay-hike-of-at-least-12000-yen</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/jaw-to-seek-pay-hike-of-at-least-12000-yen</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--The Confederation of Japan Automobile Workers&#039; Unions, or JAW, will demand a monthly pay scale hike of 12,000 yen or more in the upcoming &quot;shunto&quot; spring wage negotiations, after achieving the biggest rise in 50 years in the previous shunto.     The ambitious request plan, adopted at a Central Committee meeting Thursday, is aimed at narrowing wage gaps between worke... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:07:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>JAW, Seek, Pay, Hike, Least, 12, 000, Yen</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--The Confederation of Japan Automobile Workers' Unions, or JAW, will demand a monthly pay scale hike of 12,000 yen or more in the upcoming "shunto" spring wage negotiations, after achieving the biggest rise in 50 years in the previous shunto.     The ambitious request plan, adopted at a Central Committee meeting Thursday, is aimed at narrowing wage gaps between worke...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Osaka Court Dismisses Request to Ban Executions by Hanging</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/osaka-court-dismisses-request-to-ban-executions-by-hanging</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/osaka-court-dismisses-request-to-ban-executions-by-hanging</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Osaka, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--Osaka District Court on Friday dismissed a request from three death-row inmates for the state to ban executions by hanging.     The three, whose death sentences have been finalized, claimed that executions by hanging are against an international treaty that prohibits cruel punishments.    Noting that the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, ratified... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2938530/2938530.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:07:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Osaka, Court, Dismisses, Request, Ban, Executions, Hanging</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Osaka, Jan. 16 (Jiji Press)--Osaka District Court on Friday dismissed a request from three death-row inmates for the state to ban executions by hanging.     The three, whose death sentences have been finalized, claimed that executions by hanging are against an international treaty that prohibits cruel punishments.    Noting that the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, ratified...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>China Tightens Restrictions on Rare Earth Exports to Japan</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/china-tightens-restrictions-on-rare-earth-exports-to-japan</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/china-tightens-restrictions-on-rare-earth-exports-to-japan</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Beijing, Jan. 9 (Jiji Press)--The Chinese government has tightened its restrictions on rare earth exports to Japan, it was learned Friday.     Shipments of some rare earth materials destined for Japan appear to be facing difficulties. China has begun to check shipping routes in detail, according to a Japanese mineral-related company.    It was also learned that some Chinese exporters have stopp... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>China, Tightens, Restrictions, Rare, Earth, Exports, Japan</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Beijing, Jan. 9 (Jiji Press)--The Chinese government has tightened its restrictions on rare earth exports to Japan, it was learned Friday.     Shipments of some rare earth materials destined for Japan appear to be facing difficulties. China has begun to check shipping routes in detail, according to a Japanese mineral-related company.    It was also learned that some Chinese exporters have stopp...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Mizuho Long&#45;Term Prime Rate to Rise to 27&#45;Yr High of 2.75 Pct</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/mizuho-long-term-prime-rate-to-rise-to-27-yr-high-of-275-pct</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/mizuho-long-term-prime-rate-to-rise-to-27-yr-high-of-275-pct</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 8 (Jiji Press)--Mizuho Bank said Thursday it will set its long-term prime lending rate for January at 2.75 pct, up from 2.60 pct at present and the highest level since 2.90 pct for February 1999.    The new rate will take effect Friday. The hike reflects rising bond yields.    Mizuho, one of Japan&#039;s three megabanks, will raise the rate for the fifth consecutive month.    The long-te... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Mizuho, Long-Term, Prime, Rate, Rise, 27-Yr, High, 2.75, Pct</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 8 (Jiji Press)--Mizuho Bank said Thursday it will set its long-term prime lending rate for January at 2.75 pct, up from 2.60 pct at present and the highest level since 2.90 pct for February 1999.    The new rate will take effect Friday. The hike reflects rising bond yields.    Mizuho, one of Japan's three megabanks, will raise the rate for the fifth consecutive month.    The long-te...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan Opposition Leaders Worry about U.S. Attacks on Venezuela</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-opposition-leaders-worry-about-us-attacks-on-venezuela</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-opposition-leaders-worry-about-us-attacks-on-venezuela</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 5 (Jiji Press)--Leaders of Japanese opposition parties Monday showed their concerns about U.S. attacks on Venezuela and criticized the Japanese government&#039;s response.     &quot;I&#039;m concerned that the attacks may significantly shake the international order,&quot; Tetsuo Saito, who heads Komeito, a former ally of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, told a party conference.    The government sh... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 15:01:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Opposition, Leaders, Worry, about, U.S., Attacks, Venezuela</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 5 (Jiji Press)--Leaders of Japanese opposition parties Monday showed their concerns about U.S. attacks on Venezuela and criticized the Japanese government's response.     "I'm concerned that the attacks may significantly shake the international order," Tetsuo Saito, who heads Komeito, a former ally of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, told a party conference.    The government sh...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>TEPCO Reactor to Be Restarted as Early as Jan. 20</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-reactor-to-be-restarted-as-early-as-jan-20</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tepco-reactor-to-be-restarted-as-early-as-jan-20</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Jan. 4 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. is slated to reactivate the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station in central Japan as early as Jan. 20.     This will mark the first time for TEPCO to bring a reactor back online since the March 2011 triple meltdown at its disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan.   ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2026 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>TEPCO, Reactor, Restarted, Early, Jan.</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Jan. 4 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. is slated to reactivate the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station in central Japan as early as Jan. 20.     This will mark the first time for TEPCO to bring a reactor back online since the March 2011 triple meltdown at its disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan.   ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan End&#45;2025 Bank Notes Fall for 3rd Straight Year</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-end-2025-bank-notes-fall-for-3rd-straight-year</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-end-2025-bank-notes-fall-for-3rd-straight-year</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 30 (Jiji Press)--The year-end balance of bank notes in circulation in Japan is estimated at 120,606 billion yen, falling for the third straight year amid the rise of cashless payments, according to Bank of Japan data released Tuesday.     A stack of 10,000-yen bills equivalent to this amount would be 1,206 kilometers high, about 319 times the height of Mount Fuji, Japan&#039;s tallest pe... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:04:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, End-2025, Bank, Notes, Fall, for, 3rd, Straight, Year</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 30 (Jiji Press)--The year-end balance of bank notes in circulation in Japan is estimated at 120,606 billion yen, falling for the third straight year amid the rise of cashless payments, according to Bank of Japan data released Tuesday.     A stack of 10,000-yen bills equivalent to this amount would be 1,206 kilometers high, about 319 times the height of Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest pe...]]> </content:encoded>
</item>

<item>
<title>Japan: The Top News Stories of 2025</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-the-top-news-stories-of-2025</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-the-top-news-stories-of-2025</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2025, tariffs imposed by Donald Trump caused chaos and confusion in Japan, making headlines through long rounds of negotiations. It was also another tough electoral year for the Liberal Democratic Party, which lost its majority in the upper house and appointed a new leader, Takaichi Sanae, who became the country’s first female prime minister. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan:, The, Top, News, Stories, 2025</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[In 2025, tariffs imposed by Donald Trump caused chaos and confusion in Japan, making headlines through long rounds of negotiations. It was also another tough electoral year for the Liberal Democratic Party, which lost its majority in the upper house and appointed a new leader, Takaichi Sanae, who became the country’s first female prime minister.]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Putin Sends New Year&amp;apos;s Message to Trump, But Not to Takaichi</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/putin-sends-new-years-message-to-trump-but-not-to-takaichi</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/putin-sends-new-years-message-to-trump-but-not-to-takaichi</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 30 (Jiji Press)--Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his Christmas and New Year&#039;s greetings to U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders, but not to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.     The Russian presidential office on Tuesday announced a list of leaders, including Trump, to whom Putin sent his messages. Takaichi was not on the list.    It was the first ... ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Putin, Sends, New, Years, Message, Trump, But, Not, Takaichi</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 30 (Jiji Press)--Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his Christmas and New Year's greetings to U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders, but not to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.     The Russian presidential office on Tuesday announced a list of leaders, including Trump, to whom Putin sent his messages. Takaichi was not on the list.    It was the first ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japanese Tourist Dies after Diving into Sea in Hawaii</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japanese-tourist-dies-after-diving-into-sea-in-hawaii</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japanese-tourist-dies-after-diving-into-sea-in-hawaii</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Silicon Valley, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--A 26-year-old Japanese tourist has died in the Island of Hawaii after jumping from a cliff into the ocean in the southern part of the island, according to local police.     The tourist has been identified as Kan Ogoshi. The police said that &quot;no foul play is suspected&quot; over his death.    According to the Hawaii Police Department, the incident occurred on Sun... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/528/1451356/1451356.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japanese, Tourist, Dies, after, Diving, into, Sea, Hawaii</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Silicon Valley, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--A 26-year-old Japanese tourist has died in the Island of Hawaii after jumping from a cliff into the ocean in the southern part of the island, according to local police.     The tourist has been identified as Kan Ogoshi. The police said that "no foul play is suspected" over his death.    According to the Hawaii Police Department, the incident occurred on Sun...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>BOJ Policymaker Urges One Rate Hike Every Few Months: Minutes</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/boj-policymaker-urges-one-rate-hike-every-few-months-minutes</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/boj-policymaker-urges-one-rate-hike-every-few-months-minutes</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--A Bank of Japan policymaker called for raising interest rates &quot;with intervals of a few months&quot; at the central bank&#039;s latest policy-setting meeting this month, according to a summary of opinions at the meeting released on Monday.     The summary also included a view that the BOJ&#039;s policy interest rate is &quot;too low relative to the inflation rate&quot; to curb the weakening ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Dec 2025 15:07:05 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>BOJ, Policymaker, Urges, One, Rate, Hike, Every, Few, Months:, Minutes</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--A Bank of Japan policymaker called for raising interest rates "with intervals of a few months" at the central bank's latest policy-setting meeting this month, according to a summary of opinions at the meeting released on Monday.     The summary also included a view that the BOJ's policy interest rate is "too low relative to the inflation rate" to curb the weakening ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Work Underway for Selecting U.S. Projects for Japanese Funding</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/work-underway-for-selecting-us-projects-for-japanese-funding</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/work-underway-for-selecting-us-projects-for-japanese-funding</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japanese and U.S. officials are working to select which projects in the United States will receive 550 billion dollars in investments and loans from Japan as part of a trade agreement that Tokyo and Washington struck in summer 2025.     Projects related to energy and artificial intelligence are considered to be likely candidates.    Japan aims to avoid high-risk pro... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Dec 2025 15:07:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Work, Underway, for, Selecting, U.S., Projects, for, Japanese, Funding</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japanese and U.S. officials are working to select which projects in the United States will receive 550 billion dollars in investments and loans from Japan as part of a trade agreement that Tokyo and Washington struck in summer 2025.     Projects related to energy and artificial intelligence are considered to be likely candidates.    Japan aims to avoid high-risk pro...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japanese Lawmaker Suzuki Conveys Takaichi&amp;apos;s Stance to Russia</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japanese-lawmaker-suzuki-conveys-takaichis-stance-to-russia</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japanese-lawmaker-suzuki-conveys-takaichis-stance-to-russia</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 27 (Jiji Press)--Japanese lawmaker Muneo Suzuki has said that he conveyed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi&#039;s stance on Japan-Russia relations to Moscow during his trip to Russia.     At a press conference in Moscow on Friday, Suzuki, a member of the House of Councillors, the upper chamber of parliament, also showed eagerness to promote exchanges between lawmakers of the two countries a... ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Sat, 27 Dec 2025 15:01:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japanese, Lawmaker, Suzuki, Conveys, Takaichis, Stance, Russia</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 27 (Jiji Press)--Japanese lawmaker Muneo Suzuki has said that he conveyed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's stance on Japan-Russia relations to Moscow during his trip to Russia.     At a press conference in Moscow on Friday, Suzuki, a member of the House of Councillors, the upper chamber of parliament, also showed eagerness to promote exchanges between lawmakers of the two countries a...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan Adopts Local Revitalization Strategy for Strong Economy</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-adopts-local-revitalization-strategy-for-strong-economy</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-adopts-local-revitalization-strategy-for-strong-economy</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Dec. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government at a cabinet meeting Tuesday adopted a comprehensive strategy on regional revitalization designed to realize a strong economy, a goal set by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi&#039;s administration.     The strategy, which covers five years from fiscal 2025, aims to raise labor productivity per person in rural areas to or above that in the Tokyo metrop... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/news/2928067/2928067.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:25:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Adopts, Local, Revitalization, Strategy, for, Strong, Economy</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Dec. 23 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government at a cabinet meeting Tuesday adopted a comprehensive strategy on regional revitalization designed to realize a strong economy, a goal set by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration.     The strategy, which covers five years from fiscal 2025, aims to raise labor productivity per person in rural areas to or above that in the Tokyo metrop...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>OECD Keeps 2026 Global Growth Projection at 2.9 Pct</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/oecd-keeps-2026-global-growth-projection-at-29-pct</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/oecd-keeps-2026-global-growth-projection-at-29-pct</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Paris, Dec. 3 (Jiji Press)--The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has put global economic growth for 2026 at 2.9 pct, unchanged from its previous forecast in September.     Strong investment in artificial intelligence is expected to support the global economy, leaving the negative impact of the high U.S. tariffs &quot;relatively mild,&quot; the OECD said in its latest Economic Outlook... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 15:05:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>OECD, Keeps, 2026, Global, Growth, Projection, 2.9, Pct</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Paris, Dec. 3 (Jiji Press)--The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has put global economic growth for 2026 at 2.9 pct, unchanged from its previous forecast in September.     Strong investment in artificial intelligence is expected to support the global economy, leaving the negative impact of the high U.S. tariffs "relatively mild," the OECD said in its latest Economic Outlook...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Japan Govt Adopts 18.3&#45;T.&#45;Yen Draft Extra Budget</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-govt-adopts-183-t-yen-draft-extra-budget</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-govt-adopts-183-t-yen-draft-extra-budget</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government Friday adopted a fiscal 2025 draft supplementary budget with 18,303.4 billion yen in general-account spending to finance an economic package centered on aid for household finances and growth investments.     It is the first draft budget that has been drawn up under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who advocates &quot;responsible and proactive&quot; fisca... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 15:08:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Govt, Adopts, 18.3-T.-Yen, Draft, Extra, Budget</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government Friday adopted a fiscal 2025 draft supplementary budget with 18,303.4 billion yen in general-account spending to finance an economic package centered on aid for household finances and growth investments.     It is the first draft budget that has been drawn up under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who advocates "responsible and proactive" fisca...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Tokyo Gas to Procure LNG from U.S. Supplier</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/tokyo-gas-to-procure-lng-from-us-supplier</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/tokyo-gas-to-procure-lng-from-us-supplier</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Nov. 26 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Gas Co. said Wednesday that it will procure about 1 million tons of liquefied natural gas annually for 20 years from U.S. LNG supplier Global Venture Inc., starting in 2030.    The Japanese company will procure LNG from a Global Venture facility in Louisiana that liquefies shale gas produced in the United States, for an undisclosed sum as part of its efforts t... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:02:02 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Tokyo, Gas, Procure, LNG, from, U.S., Supplier</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Nov. 26 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Gas Co. said Wednesday that it will procure about 1 million tons of liquefied natural gas annually for 20 years from U.S. LNG supplier Global Venture Inc., starting in 2030.    The Japanese company will procure LNG from a Global Venture facility in Louisiana that liquefies shale gas produced in the United States, for an undisclosed sum as part of its efforts t...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>Takaichi, Modi Agree to Deepen Japan&#45;India Cooperation</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-modi-agree-to-deepen-japan-india-cooperation</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/takaichi-modi-agree-to-deepen-japan-india-cooperation</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Johannesburg, Nov. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, agreed Sunday to deepen their countries&#039; cooperation in a wide range of areas including security as well as the economy and investment.     The agreement came at a time when the security environment in the Indo-Pacific region is increasingly severe.    At a meeting held on the s... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 15:04:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Takaichi, Modi, Agree, Deepen, Japan-India, Cooperation</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Johannesburg, Nov. 23 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, agreed Sunday to deepen their countries' cooperation in a wide range of areas including security as well as the economy and investment.     The agreement came at a time when the security environment in the Indo-Pacific region is increasingly severe.    At a meeting held on the s...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>3 of 4 Major Japan Life Insurers See Revenue Growth in April&#45;Sept.</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/3-of-4-major-japan-life-insurers-see-revenue-growth-in-april-sept</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/3-of-4-major-japan-life-insurers-see-revenue-growth-in-april-sept</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Three of Japan&#039;s four major life insurance companies enjoyed insurance premium income growth in April-September, their earnings reports have shown.     All the four--Nippon Life Insurance Co., Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co., Sumitomo Life Insurance Co. and Dai-ichi Life Holdings Inc.--saw their single-premium whole life insurance policies and savings-type products ... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/21/1448659/1448659.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:03:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Major, Japan, Life, Insurers, See, Revenue, Growth, April-Sept.</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Three of Japan's four major life insurance companies enjoyed insurance premium income growth in April-September, their earnings reports have shown.     All the four--Nippon Life Insurance Co., Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co., Sumitomo Life Insurance Co. and Dai-ichi Life Holdings Inc.--saw their single-premium whole life insurance policies and savings-type products ...]]> </content:encoded>
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<title>LDP to Begin Discussions on Security Documents Thurs.</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/ldp-to-begin-discussions-on-security-documents-thurs</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/ldp-to-begin-discussions-on-security-documents-thurs</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Nov. 19 (Jiji Press)--The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has affirmed plans to begin discussions on Thursday for revising Japan&#039;s three key national security-related documents.     The decision was made Tuesday at an executive meeting of the party&#039;s Research Commission on Security, chaired by former LDP policy chief Itsunori Onodera.    The main point of contention is likely to be the e... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/20/1448636/1448636.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:33:03 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>LDP, Begin, Discussions, Security, Documents, Thurs.</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Nov. 19 (Jiji Press)--The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has affirmed plans to begin discussions on Thursday for revising Japan's three key national security-related documents.     The decision was made Tuesday at an executive meeting of the party's Research Commission on Security, chaired by former LDP policy chief Itsunori Onodera.    The main point of contention is likely to be the e...]]> </content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Japan Eyeing 7,000&#45;8,000 Yen in Jan.&#45;March Utility Aid</title>
<link>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-eyeing-7000-8000-yen-in-jan-march-utility-aid</link>
<guid>https://konnichiwa.today/japan-eyeing-7000-8000-yen-in-jan-march-utility-aid</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Tokyo, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government is considering financial aid to lower electricity and gas bills at households by a total of 7,000 to 8,000 yen in January-March 2026 as part of its planned comprehensive economic package, it was learned Tuesday.     The package is expected to be adopted at a cabinet meeting as early as Friday.    The government initially planned to set the wi... ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.nippon.com/en/ncommon/contents/category_thumbnails/23/1448638/1448638.jpg" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:06:04 +0800</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Tomas Kauer - News Writer and Moderator</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Japan, Eyeing, 7, 000-8, 000, Yen, Jan.-March, Utility, Aid</media:keywords>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Tokyo, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government is considering financial aid to lower electricity and gas bills at households by a total of 7,000 to 8,000 yen in January-March 2026 as part of its planned comprehensive economic package, it was learned Tuesday.     The package is expected to be adopted at a cabinet meeting as early as Friday.    The government initially planned to set the wi...]]> </content:encoded>
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