Japan

Tsunami Strikes Japanese Coast After Powerful 7.8-Magnitude Earthquake Off Philippines

A tsunami struck Japan's coast on June 8 after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake off the Philippines. Waves of about 1 meter were recorded in several prefectures, but no major damage or casualties were reported.

Jun 12, 2026

Japan Successfully Launches First All-Liquid-Fuel H3 Rocket

Japan launched its first H3 rocket using only liquid-fuel engines on April 4, deploying small satellites into orbit. The mission tested the new propulsion system and confirmed the rocket's reliability. This advance is expected to boost Japan's competitiveness in the global launch market.

Jun 12, 2026

Japan captain Endo out of World Cup with foot injury

Japan captain Wataru Endo has withdrawn from the World Cup squad due to a foot injury, the Japan Football Association confirmed on Thursday. The Liverpool midfielder cannot recover in time for the tournament and will return to his club for treatment. His absence is a significant loss for Japan both as a leader and a defensive anchor.

Japan to Keep July Crude Oil Imports at Last Year’s Level Despite Hormuz Tensions

Japan plans to keep crude oil imports in July at last year's levels, sources said Thursday, by boosting purchases from non-Middle East suppliers like the US as the Strait of Hormuz faces near-blockade due to geopolitical tensions.

Two Suspects Flee After Snatching 8 Million Yen from Chinese Woman on Tokyo Street

Two male suspects snatched a bag containing approximately 8 million yen (US$50,000) in cash from a 60-year-old Chinese woman on a Tokyo street, police said Thursday. The victim was not seriously injured. Authorities are reviewing security footage and gathering witness statements to track down the suspects.

Japan and UK Eye New Offshore Wind Cooperation Framework

Japan and the UK are considering a new framework to advance offshore wind cooperation, driven by renewed focus on renewables amid Middle East tensions. The effort aims to share technology and expertise, bolster energy security, and meet climate goals.

Tsunami Hits Japan After Powerful 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off the Philippines

A tsunami has struck coastal areas of Japan on June 8, 2026, following a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake off the coast of the Philippines. Japanese authorities issued a tsunami warning and urged evacuations, with waves of 1 to 3 meters expected. No major damage has been reported yet, but monitoring continues.

Japan relies on veterans and pillars to make a successful World Cup campaign

Japan enters the World Cup with high confidence after friendly wins over Brazil and England. The team blends veterans like Yuya Osako and Keisuke Honda with young talents Takefusa Kubo and Daichi Kamada. Preparation and unity are seen as keys to their success.

Economy

Bank of Japan Governor Hospitalized, to Miss Next Week's Policy Meeting

Bank of Japan Governor hospitalized, will miss next week's policy meeting, Kyodo News reports. The unexpected absence raises questions about decision-making on interest rates and monetary policy. No further details on his health condition have been released.

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Japan's Lower House Passes Draft Amendment to Imperial House Law

On July 5, Japan's parliament passed a draft amendment to the Imperial House Law after a meeting of all 13 political parties and groups, aiming to ensure the imperial system's sustainability. The bill addresses male succession shortages and related regulations, with enactment expected before July 17.

Japanese Local Government Opens Interactive Facility on Ocean Plastic Waste

Saga Prefecture in southwestern Japan has opened an interactive facility to raise public awareness about ocean plastic waste. The facility offers hands-on experiences to educate visitors on the impact of plastic on marine ecosystems and encourage behavioral change. It is part of global efforts to address a critical environmental challenge.

Japan Passes Revised Law Officially Recognizing Digital Textbooks

Japan's parliament passed a revised law on June 8, officially recognizing digital textbooks as official teaching materials in schools nationwide. The target rollout is set for the 2030 academic year. Education experts note benefits like reduced backpack weight and updated content, but concerns over technology access and eye health remain.

Top sumo wrestlers depart for Paris exhibition

Yokozuna Onosato and ozeki Aonishiki, along with other heavyweight sumo wrestlers, left Japan on Wednesday for a two-day exhibition in Paris. The event is part of the Japan Sumo Association's efforts to promote sumo internationally. This marks the first time professional sumo has held an exhibition in Paris since 2016.

Bear weighing 100 kg captured after 4 days of sightings in city north of Tokyo

A bear weighing about 100 kg was captured after a four-day ordeal in a city north of Tokyo that led to school closures. Authorities cornered and sedated the animal in a residential area, then transferred it to a vet for evaluation before planned release.

Japan and Malaysia to Strengthen Energy Cooperation in Talks

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are expected to affirm deeper cooperation in the energy sector during their meeting on Wednesday. The talks come as Japan seeks to diversify energy supplies amid Middle East conflicts, with Malaysia seen as a key partner in energy security and renewable projects.

Japanese and Malaysian Prime Ministers Agree to Strengthen Energy Security Cooperation

Japanese and Malaysian Prime Ministers agreed in Tokyo on June 8 to enhance cooperation on energy security, focusing on renewable energy and clean technology. The pact aims to stabilize supplies amid regional uncertainties and strengthen bilateral ties.

Tsunami Hits Japan After Powerful 7.8-Magnitude Earthquake Off Philippines

Tsunami waves began hitting Japan's southwestern coast on the evening of June 8 after a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake off the Philippines. Authorities issued evacuation orders for several prefectures, warning of waves up to 3 meters.

Yokozuna Hoshoryu and sumo wrestlers depart for Paris exhibition

Yokozuna Hoshoryu and top sumo wrestlers left Tokyo on Tuesday for Paris, where they will perform in a two-day exhibition tournament this weekend. The event is aimed at introducing Japan's traditional sport to European audiences.

Japan Begins Minting Silver Commemorative Coins for Nagoya Asian Games

Japan Mint has started producing silver commemorative coins for the Nagoya 2026 Asian Games and Asian Para Games. The coins feature athlete motifs and the official mascot. The Games mark Japan's third time hosting the event.

Japanese Bookstores Blend Gyms, Cafes to Draw Customers

Amid fierce competition from online retailers, many bookstores in Japan are pivoting to hybrid business models that combine reading spaces with gyms, cafes, and lounges to keep customers lingering longer. These spaces offer comfortable reading areas and light exercise options, with owners noting improved repeat visits and sales.

Japan's ruling party approves bill banning flag desecration

Japan's ruling LDP has approved a bill to criminalize the desecration of the national flag, aiming to pass it in parliament by mid-July. The measure would penalize intentional damage or disrespect of the flag in public, with supporters citing national pride and opponents warning of free speech restrictions.

Japan Must Abandon Single-Use Plastics Amid Threat of Supply Disruption from the Middle East

Escalating Middle East tensions have nearly blocked the Strait of Hormuz, exposing Japan's vulnerability as about 80% of its naphtha is imported from the region. Analysts urge Japan to reduce single-use plastics and diversify materials to lessen geopolitical risks.

Japan national team trains in front of 5,000 fans in Nashville

Japan's national football team held its first official training session at its World Cup base in Nashville, Tennessee, drawing about 5,000 fans. The team arrived after a pre-tournament camp in Mexico and will play a final warm-up against South Korea on June 12 before heading to Qatar for Group E matches.

Over 10,000 Short-Tailed Albatross Return to Japanese Island After Near Extinction

Japan's Yamashina Institute reports the short-tailed albatross population on Torishima Island has exceeded 10,000 for the first time since the species was rediscovered 75 years ago. The endangered bird, once hunted nearly to extinction, now numbers about 10,200 after a record breeding season. Experts caution that volcanic risks and shifting ocean conditions still threaten the species.