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Japan's Ama Divers: Preserving a Millennia-Old Tradition Amid Modern Challenges

Japan's Ama Divers: Preserving a Millennia-Old Tradition Amid Modern Challenges

Japan's Ama Divers: Preserving a Millennia-Old Tradition Amid Modern Challenges

Japanese High School Students Transform Blackboards into Art Canvases

Japanese High School Students Transform Blackboards into Art Canvases

In Japan, high school students are turning traditional blackboards into vibrant canvases for artistic expression through the 'Kokuban Art Koshien', an annual national chalk art championship. This contest, which began in 2015, involves students from approximately 300 high schools and junior high schools. The artworks, often dreamlike and collaborative, range from depictions of popular manga scenes to interpretations of famous artworks like Hokusai’s Mount Fuji. The contest encourages creativity and teamwork, with students using chalk to create intricate designs that are later judged based on photographs.

UNIQLO Partners with Filipino Artisans for Sustainable Fashion Initiative

UNIQLO Partners with Filipino Artisans for Sustainable Fashion Initiative

UNIQLO Partners with Filipino Artisans for Sustainable Fashion Initiative

Japan's Food Self-Sufficiency Drops to 37%, Raising Concerns Over Future Resilience

Japan's Food Self-Sufficiency Drops to 37%, Raising Concerns Over Future Resilience

Japan's food self-sufficiency ratio has fallen to 37%, a decline from 38% in the previous fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. This drop highlights Japan's vulnerability as it heavily relies on overseas supplies for its food system. The decline is attributed to lower rice consumption and increased private-sector stockpiles. The self-sufficiency ratio has remained below 40% for over a decade, raising concerns about the country's ability to make its food system more resilient amid geopolitical tensions and potential trade disruptions. Japan aims to reach a 45% self-sufficiency target by fiscal 2030, but achieving this will require addressing issues beyond just increasing farmland for crops like wheat and soybeans.

Japan's ZEH Program Offers Blueprint for U.S. Home Self-Sufficiency

Japan's ZEH Program Offers Blueprint for U.S. Home Self-Sufficiency

Japan's ZEH Program Offers Blueprint for U.S. Home Self-Sufficiency

Yasukuni Shrine Bans Military Attire to Preserve Sacred Atmosphere

Yasukuni Shrine Bans Military Attire to Preserve Sacred Atmosphere

Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo has implemented a ban on military attire and cosplay as the anniversary of Japan's World War II surrender approaches. The shrine, which honors Japan's war dead, including 14 Class-A war criminals, aims to maintain the tranquility and dignity of its grounds. The new rules, announced ahead of the annual August 15 commemorations, have sparked mixed reactions online. While some support the move to preserve the solemn atmosphere, others question the enforcement and interpretation of the ban.

Curaçao's World Clean Up Day 2026: Aiming for a Cleaner Island

Curaçao's World Clean Up Day 2026: Aiming for a Cleaner Island

Curaçao is gearing up for its annual World Clean Up Day, scheduled for the weekend of September 18-19, 2026. This event is part of a global initiative recognized by the United Nations, which began in Estonia in 2008. The local chapter, organized by Curaçao Clean Up in collaboration with Curaçao Cares, Selikor, and the Ministry of Health, Environment & Nature, aims to mobilize thousands of volunteers to clean up litter from beaches, streets, and neighborhoods. The event coincides with PADI AWARE Week, focusing on underwater conservation efforts such as marine debris removal and biodiversity surveys. These initiatives highlight the island's ongoing struggle with waste management and the need for sustainable practices.

Nagasaki Mayor Advocates for Nuclear Disarmament on Bombing Anniversary

Nagasaki Mayor Advocates for Nuclear Disarmament on Bombing Anniversary

Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki has reiterated the call for nuclear disarmament, stating that 'humanity and nuclear weapons cannot coexist'. This statement was made during a memorial ceremony in Nagasaki Peace Park, marking the anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing of the city. The event was attended by Japan's ultraconservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The mayor's remarks highlight the ongoing global debate over nuclear weapons and the push for disarmament, particularly in regions that have experienced the devastating effects of nuclear warfare.

Japan's GPIF Achieves Record $152 Billion Gain Amid Stock Rally

Japan's GPIF Achieves Record $152 Billion Gain Amid Stock Rally

Japan's GPIF Achieves Record $152 Billion Gain Amid Stock Rally

Witch Hat Atelier Creator and Cast Engage Fans at Anime Expo 2026

Witch Hat Atelier Creator and Cast Engage Fans at Anime Expo 2026

Witch Hat Atelier Creator and Cast Engage Fans at Anime Expo 2026

Fermented Foods: A Global Culinary Tradition with Health Benefits

Fermented Foods: A Global Culinary Tradition with Health Benefits

Fermented Foods: A Global Culinary Tradition with Health Benefits

JOEKR Showcases Japanese Craftsmanship with 'Kintai Bridge and Sakura' Collection

JOEKR Showcases Japanese Craftsmanship with 'Kintai Bridge and Sakura' Collection

JOEKR, an accessory and silverware brand developed by e-moer, recently participated in the 'Art and Dassai, Dassai and Art' exhibition at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store in Tokyo. The event, held from May 13 to May 26, 2026, featured JOEKR's 'Kintai Bridge and Sakura' collection, which was inspired by a special label created by manga artist Kenshi Hirokane. The collection includes decorative bottle cases, silver cups, and sake vessels, all crafted by TOKYO SILVER artisans. The exhibition aimed to merge the traditional craftsmanship of TOKYO SILVER with the cultural experience of enjoying Japanese sake, transforming it into an appreciation of fine art and craftsmanship.