Japanese film director Yoji Yamada will be given this year's special award for services at the Berlin Film Festival.
Yamada announced the news at the premiere of his new movie "Ototo", or "About Her Brother", on Saturday.
The prize, the Berlinale Camera, is awarded to a person or institution with whom the festival feels especially attached.
Osaka-born Yamada made his debut as a director in 1961. He is well-known for the long-running Tora-san film series, about a vagabond who is unlucky in love but still loved by his family for his kind heart.
The Berlin Film Festival is one of the world's leading film festivals. Many of Yamada's works have been featured at international film festivals including the one in Berlin.
2010年1月31日日曜日
Makeup national university entrance exams begin
Supplementary preliminary entrance examinations for Japanese universities began on Saturday.
A record-high number of people, exceeding 900, are expected to take the two-day tests this year due to the H1N1 flu pandemic.
Hundreds of public and private universities and junior colleges across Japan will use the results of the exams in their admissions procedures.
The additional tests are usually held at 2 sites, one week after the first ones. But this year, test sites were prepared in all prefectures to accommodate a larger number of applicants. The interval between the first and supplementary exams was also extended to 2 weeks so that flu patients could recover.
Exam organizers say 972 people, or more than 4 times last year's figure, submitted applications for the additional exams.
On the first day, applicants take exams in civics, geography, history, Japanese, and foreign languages. They will take science and mathematics tests on Sunday.
A record-high number of people, exceeding 900, are expected to take the two-day tests this year due to the H1N1 flu pandemic.
Hundreds of public and private universities and junior colleges across Japan will use the results of the exams in their admissions procedures.
The additional tests are usually held at 2 sites, one week after the first ones. But this year, test sites were prepared in all prefectures to accommodate a larger number of applicants. The interval between the first and supplementary exams was also extended to 2 weeks so that flu patients could recover.
Exam organizers say 972 people, or more than 4 times last year's figure, submitted applications for the additional exams.
On the first day, applicants take exams in civics, geography, history, Japanese, and foreign languages. They will take science and mathematics tests on Sunday.
2010年1月29日金曜日
256,000 non-regular workers losing jobs
A Japanese government survey shows more than 250,000 non-regular workers lost jobs or will lose them in the 18 months between October 2008 and March this year.
The labor ministry conducted the survey on companies nationwide to monitor their layoff plans.
As of January 20th, over 256,000 non-regular workers became jobless or are expected to lose their jobs due to completion of their contracts or early termination. This is an increase of more than 6,000 from December.
Of this total, about 147,000 were dispatched by staffing agencies. 59,000 others were seasonal staff, and about 20,000 were contract workers.
The ministry tracked down over 120,000 of the laid-off workers, and found that only 55 percent have been able to find new jobs.
The labor ministry conducted the survey on companies nationwide to monitor their layoff plans.
As of January 20th, over 256,000 non-regular workers became jobless or are expected to lose their jobs due to completion of their contracts or early termination. This is an increase of more than 6,000 from December.
Of this total, about 147,000 were dispatched by staffing agencies. 59,000 others were seasonal staff, and about 20,000 were contract workers.
The ministry tracked down over 120,000 of the laid-off workers, and found that only 55 percent have been able to find new jobs.
2010年1月28日木曜日
Akihabara stabbing accused admits guilt
The man charged with the 2008 fatal stabbing rampage in Tokyo's Akihabara shopping district has admitted to the charges at his first court appearance and apologized to the victims and their families.
Tokyo District Court on Thursday began the trial of 27-year-old Tomohiro Kato. The defendant is charged with ramming a truck into a crowd in the busy shopping district and randomly stabbing passers-by. Seven people were killed and 10 others injured.
Kato read out a statement saying that he admitted to the charges, but that he does not remember some parts of the incident. He said he is deeply sorry for those who were killed or injured or who lost loved ones, and that the best thing he can do to repent for his crime is to let people know how it happened.
The defense lawyers, however, said prosecutors' claims that Kato was capable of taking responsibility for the incident because he could understand the consequences of his crimes is questionable.
The prosecutors said working in a temporary job meant Kato was unhappy that his worth was not correctly understood, leading him to consider a mobile-phone website as the only place where he could share his frustration.
They said Kato came to view everybody as his enemy after he found messages encouraging him disappearing from the site.
They insisted that the defendant wanted to take revenge against those who had ignored him and make them recognize his existence by committing a serious crime.
Tokyo District Court on Thursday began the trial of 27-year-old Tomohiro Kato. The defendant is charged with ramming a truck into a crowd in the busy shopping district and randomly stabbing passers-by. Seven people were killed and 10 others injured.
Kato read out a statement saying that he admitted to the charges, but that he does not remember some parts of the incident. He said he is deeply sorry for those who were killed or injured or who lost loved ones, and that the best thing he can do to repent for his crime is to let people know how it happened.
The defense lawyers, however, said prosecutors' claims that Kato was capable of taking responsibility for the incident because he could understand the consequences of his crimes is questionable.
The prosecutors said working in a temporary job meant Kato was unhappy that his worth was not correctly understood, leading him to consider a mobile-phone website as the only place where he could share his frustration.
They said Kato came to view everybody as his enemy after he found messages encouraging him disappearing from the site.
They insisted that the defendant wanted to take revenge against those who had ignored him and make them recognize his existence by committing a serious crime.
2010年1月27日水曜日
Japan registers 25% emission reduction target
Japan has registered its goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent from the 1990 levels by 2020 on the condition that all other major emitters join the reduction effort.
The Japanese government notified the United Nations of the goal after the Cabinet approved it on Tuesday.
The countries that took part in the UN conference in Copenhagen last December are being asked to submit their own reduction targets by the end of this month, in line with the accord agreed at the summit.
Environmental Minister Sakihito Ozawa said he wants to emphasize the attached condition because the Japanese target should not stand out from those made by other countries.
He added that the accord will lose its significance if the condition is not met.
The Japanese government notified the United Nations of the goal after the Cabinet approved it on Tuesday.
The countries that took part in the UN conference in Copenhagen last December are being asked to submit their own reduction targets by the end of this month, in line with the accord agreed at the summit.
Environmental Minister Sakihito Ozawa said he wants to emphasize the attached condition because the Japanese target should not stand out from those made by other countries.
He added that the accord will lose its significance if the condition is not met.
Fire drill held at Kiyomizu Temple
A fire drill was held at Kiyomizu Temple in Japan's ancient capital of Kyoto on Tuesday.
About 100 temple officials and people from nearby areas participated. The temple has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The drill was held on the assumption that fire had broken out in the temple's main building, a Japanese national treasure.
After a fire alarm went off, participants rushed to douse the building with water. Others who arrived soon after carried a figure to safety as if it were a precious Buddhist statue.
Participants also sprayed water to see if fire hydrants and hoses work, and tested out a 1,500-ton water tank for the 1st time.
The head of a local fire station said each participant understood the role they had to play, and expressed resolve to protect Japan's cultural assets in Kyoto.
About 100 temple officials and people from nearby areas participated. The temple has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The drill was held on the assumption that fire had broken out in the temple's main building, a Japanese national treasure.
After a fire alarm went off, participants rushed to douse the building with water. Others who arrived soon after carried a figure to safety as if it were a precious Buddhist statue.
Participants also sprayed water to see if fire hydrants and hoses work, and tested out a 1,500-ton water tank for the 1st time.
The head of a local fire station said each participant understood the role they had to play, and expressed resolve to protect Japan's cultural assets in Kyoto.
Families spending less on cram schools, tutors
A government survey has found that families with children in public elementary schools are cutting back on spending for extracurricular education amid Japan's economic slump.
More than 23,000 people nationwide who have children in kindergarten through high school responded in the latest biennial survey by the education ministry for the school year from April 2008 through the end of March 2009.
The survey showed that families with children in public elementary schools spent an average 980 dollars per child in cram school tuition and tutor's fees. The amount was about 145 dollars less than two years earlier.
Spending for extracurricular education was also down in families with kindergarteners and high school students, suggesting that the recession has finally begun to affect education costs. They had remained untouched within the household budget.
More than 23,000 people nationwide who have children in kindergarten through high school responded in the latest biennial survey by the education ministry for the school year from April 2008 through the end of March 2009.
The survey showed that families with children in public elementary schools spent an average 980 dollars per child in cram school tuition and tutor's fees. The amount was about 145 dollars less than two years earlier.
Spending for extracurricular education was also down in families with kindergarteners and high school students, suggesting that the recession has finally begun to affect education costs. They had remained untouched within the household budget.
2010年1月26日火曜日
Business, labor leaders start annual wage talks
The leaders of Japan's main business and labor organizations held talks on Tuesday, marking the start of this year's annual management-labor negotiations.
Fujio Mitarai, the chairman of Keidanren, the Japan Business Federation, met Nobuaki Koga, the president of Rengo, the Japanese Trade Union Confederation, in Tokyo on Tuesday.
Mitarai said he expected management-labor talks to be tough this year. He said management would put the priority on job security, and hinted that some struggling companies may also seek to freeze annual wage increases based on seniority.
Koga said annual wage increases form the core of trust between labor and management, and are a policy minimum that must be upheld. He stressed that if management fails to maintain the annual increases, anxieties over employment will persist and dampen personal consumption and accelerate deflation.
At Tuesday's meeting, Koga also asked management to improve the treatment of temporary and other non-regular workers. He also expressed concern over a continued decline in wages for employees of small- and medium-sized businesses.
Keidanren sought understanding of management efforts to maintain employment above all, noting that member companies have 6 million surplus personnel.
Labor unions submit their requests for higher wages to management next month. Rough going is likely as both sides are far apart over regular annual wage raises.
Fujio Mitarai, the chairman of Keidanren, the Japan Business Federation, met Nobuaki Koga, the president of Rengo, the Japanese Trade Union Confederation, in Tokyo on Tuesday.
Mitarai said he expected management-labor talks to be tough this year. He said management would put the priority on job security, and hinted that some struggling companies may also seek to freeze annual wage increases based on seniority.
Koga said annual wage increases form the core of trust between labor and management, and are a policy minimum that must be upheld. He stressed that if management fails to maintain the annual increases, anxieties over employment will persist and dampen personal consumption and accelerate deflation.
At Tuesday's meeting, Koga also asked management to improve the treatment of temporary and other non-regular workers. He also expressed concern over a continued decline in wages for employees of small- and medium-sized businesses.
Keidanren sought understanding of management efforts to maintain employment above all, noting that member companies have 6 million surplus personnel.
Labor unions submit their requests for higher wages to management next month. Rough going is likely as both sides are far apart over regular annual wage raises.
Hiroshima "black rain" fell over wider area
A recent study has found that "black rain" that fell on Hiroshima after the atomic bombing spread over a wider area than it was originally believed.
Black rain, which is radioactive, fell over Hiroshima after the U.S. atomic bombing of the city in 1945.
It is believed that heavy rain fell in an oval-shaped pattern centered on Hiroshima, stretching 19 kilometers north-south, and light rain over a wider 29-kilometer area.
The city conducts free medical consultations for its citizens who were in the severe rain area.
But based on numerous reports of black rain falling on other parts of the city, the municipal government conducted a new survey with experts at Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University.
The survey covered more than 1,800 people.
The survey showed that black rain fell on almost all areas of the city. The team also found that the center of the rainfall shifted gradually to the northwest as time passed.
Hiroshima is looking further into the results of the survey to call for improved assistance for the victims from the national government.
Black rain, which is radioactive, fell over Hiroshima after the U.S. atomic bombing of the city in 1945.
It is believed that heavy rain fell in an oval-shaped pattern centered on Hiroshima, stretching 19 kilometers north-south, and light rain over a wider 29-kilometer area.
The city conducts free medical consultations for its citizens who were in the severe rain area.
But based on numerous reports of black rain falling on other parts of the city, the municipal government conducted a new survey with experts at Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University.
The survey covered more than 1,800 people.
The survey showed that black rain fell on almost all areas of the city. The team also found that the center of the rainfall shifted gradually to the northwest as time passed.
Hiroshima is looking further into the results of the survey to call for improved assistance for the victims from the national government.
2010年1月24日日曜日
Kushiro wetland SL begins seasonal service
More than 200 passengers boarded the first steam locomotive service of the season for a trip through snow-covered wetlands in Hokkaido, northern Japan, on Saturday.
Fuyu-no-Shitsugen-go, which means the wetland in winter, started at about 11 o'clock in the morning after a ceremony at Kushiro Station to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the service.
The passengers say they were delighted to see the snow-covered Kushiro wetland that appeared soon after they left the station. They cheered when they saw red-crowned cranes and deer.
The locomotive is equipped with old-fashioned coal heaters on which the passengers toasted rice cakes and dried squid.
One passenger said he considers himself lucky to see wild animals and such wonderful landscape in the winter, which is totally different from the summer.
The seasonal locomotive will run on a part of the rail way between Kushiro and Abashiri stations until March 7th.
Fuyu-no-Shitsugen-go, which means the wetland in winter, started at about 11 o'clock in the morning after a ceremony at Kushiro Station to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the service.
The passengers say they were delighted to see the snow-covered Kushiro wetland that appeared soon after they left the station. They cheered when they saw red-crowned cranes and deer.
The locomotive is equipped with old-fashioned coal heaters on which the passengers toasted rice cakes and dried squid.
One passenger said he considers himself lucky to see wild animals and such wonderful landscape in the winter, which is totally different from the summer.
The seasonal locomotive will run on a part of the rail way between Kushiro and Abashiri stations until March 7th.
Thatched-roof houses illuminated in Gifu Pref.
Night-time illumination has been turned on in Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture, where a cluster of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses are preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
40 thatched-roof houses, including structures designated as an important national cultural asset, were lit up as night fell on Saturday in the annual event that began 24 years ago.
About 5,000 tourists showed up to see a fantastic view of snow-covered houses lit up in the darkness.
A woman from Tokyo said the illumination is so beautiful that she doesn't care about the snowy cold weather. She was moved to see such nice scenery.
6 more lighting events are scheduled on weekends until February 20th.
40 thatched-roof houses, including structures designated as an important national cultural asset, were lit up as night fell on Saturday in the annual event that began 24 years ago.
About 5,000 tourists showed up to see a fantastic view of snow-covered houses lit up in the darkness.
A woman from Tokyo said the illumination is so beautiful that she doesn't care about the snowy cold weather. She was moved to see such nice scenery.
6 more lighting events are scheduled on weekends until February 20th.
ANIME guide to attract foreign tourists
The Tokyo metropolitan government plans to promote "anime" related tourism, in an effort to attract foreign visitors.
During the next fiscal year, which begins in April, the metropolitan government will publish magazines in English and Japanese, to guide visitors interested in seeing famous sites related to the animation industry.
Japanese animated films and cartoons are referred to simply as "anime" in Japan, and have become popular worldwide.
A new magazine will guide visitors to related places in Tokyo such as the former site of the "Tokiwa-apartment" where many famous cartoonists used to live.
Osamu Tezuka, the author of "Astro Boy", was among them.
The magazine will also list the animation companies that allow tourists to visit and view the production process.
The English guide will be provided to overseas travel agencies and at animation related events.
The Tokyo metropolitan government hopes to attract 10 million international tourists by 2016.
During the next fiscal year, which begins in April, the metropolitan government will publish magazines in English and Japanese, to guide visitors interested in seeing famous sites related to the animation industry.
Japanese animated films and cartoons are referred to simply as "anime" in Japan, and have become popular worldwide.
A new magazine will guide visitors to related places in Tokyo such as the former site of the "Tokiwa-apartment" where many famous cartoonists used to live.
Osamu Tezuka, the author of "Astro Boy", was among them.
The magazine will also list the animation companies that allow tourists to visit and view the production process.
The English guide will be provided to overseas travel agencies and at animation related events.
The Tokyo metropolitan government hopes to attract 10 million international tourists by 2016.
2010年1月23日土曜日
300kg bluefin tuna caught in Wakayama Pref.
A giant bluefin tuna was caught off Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan, on Thursday.
The tuna weighed 311 kilograms and was 250 centimeters long. It was caught in waters off Nachikatsuura Town. Bluefin tuna are caught there from January to May.
At the auction for the year's biggest catch, bidders checked the color and fat of its tail flesh.
The fish sold for over 2.8 million yen, or around 31,000 dollars.
Fisherman Mutsuo Tsuno said he is happy to have caught such a big tuna, known as diamonds of the sea.
The tuna weighed 311 kilograms and was 250 centimeters long. It was caught in waters off Nachikatsuura Town. Bluefin tuna are caught there from January to May.
At the auction for the year's biggest catch, bidders checked the color and fat of its tail flesh.
The fish sold for over 2.8 million yen, or around 31,000 dollars.
Fisherman Mutsuo Tsuno said he is happy to have caught such a big tuna, known as diamonds of the sea.
2010年1月22日金曜日
Court urges settlement on Minamata disease case
A Japanese district court has proposed an out-of-court settlement for a lawsuit involving the largest group of unrecognized sufferers of Minamata disease.
Minamata disease, a neurological illness first reported in 1956, was caused by mercury-tainted water in Minamata city, southwestern Japan. The water was discharged by chemical maker Chisso Corporation.
A group of more than 2,000 patients who are not yet officially recognized as sufferers of the disease has filed a damages suit against the state, Kumamoto Prefecture and Chisso. They are demanding a lump-sum payment of about 95,000 dollars for each patient.
The proposal made by the Kumamoto District Court on Friday came after the state agreed to such a settlement for the first time. Last year, the Diet enacted measures to broaden the scope of aid for unrecognized sufferers.
Plaintiffs and the relevant parties will begin procedures for an out-of-court settlement later on Friday.
Minamata disease, a neurological illness first reported in 1956, was caused by mercury-tainted water in Minamata city, southwestern Japan. The water was discharged by chemical maker Chisso Corporation.
A group of more than 2,000 patients who are not yet officially recognized as sufferers of the disease has filed a damages suit against the state, Kumamoto Prefecture and Chisso. They are demanding a lump-sum payment of about 95,000 dollars for each patient.
The proposal made by the Kumamoto District Court on Friday came after the state agreed to such a settlement for the first time. Last year, the Diet enacted measures to broaden the scope of aid for unrecognized sufferers.
Plaintiffs and the relevant parties will begin procedures for an out-of-court settlement later on Friday.
Japan and China to sail replica of historic ship
Japan and China plan to sail a replica of a ship used to carry Japanese missions to China in ancient times.
Japan's Kadokawa Culture Promotion Foundation, the organizer of the project, held a news conference in Tokyo on Friday.
The project marks the 1,300th anniversary of the start of the Nara Period in Japan. It also coincides with the opening of the World Expo in Shanghai.
According to the plan, the wooden sailboat is scheduled to leave Osaka in May with about 20 people on board. It will follow a 1,300-kilometer route before arriving in Shanghai in June.
The ship is currently being built in China based on historical records. It is expected to be about 30 meters long and 10 meters wide and will be rowed or powered by engine along part of the route.
From the 7th to 9th century, dozens of Japanese missions sailed to Tang, as China was called at the time, to study its advanced culture.
Japan's Kadokawa Culture Promotion Foundation, the organizer of the project, held a news conference in Tokyo on Friday.
The project marks the 1,300th anniversary of the start of the Nara Period in Japan. It also coincides with the opening of the World Expo in Shanghai.
According to the plan, the wooden sailboat is scheduled to leave Osaka in May with about 20 people on board. It will follow a 1,300-kilometer route before arriving in Shanghai in June.
The ship is currently being built in China based on historical records. It is expected to be about 30 meters long and 10 meters wide and will be rowed or powered by engine along part of the route.
From the 7th to 9th century, dozens of Japanese missions sailed to Tang, as China was called at the time, to study its advanced culture.
2010年1月21日木曜日
Eco-friendly material may replace plastics
A group of researchers in Japan has developed a new eco-friendly material that is made almost entirely of water.
The group, led by Professor Takuzo Aida of The University of Tokyo, says the newly developed "Aqua Material" is 95-percent water with 2 percent clay and other organic substances. The group says the transparent and flexible material can be easily made by mixing the ingredients in a machine for only 3 seconds.
The group explains that under this new method, water is solidified since its molecules penetrate through layers of clay that are connected firmly by the organic substances.
The group says the new material is 50 times more resilient than other similar materials that have been recently developed.
The group says there are high expectations for utilizing the material as surgical adhesives and for other medical purposes since it is eco-friendly and safe to be used in the human body.
The group says the material may also replace petrochemical plastics if its resilience is heightened.
Professor Aida says his group hopes to promote the wider use of environmentally-friendly materials.
The research results will be reported in the British science journal Nature on Thursday.
The group, led by Professor Takuzo Aida of The University of Tokyo, says the newly developed "Aqua Material" is 95-percent water with 2 percent clay and other organic substances. The group says the transparent and flexible material can be easily made by mixing the ingredients in a machine for only 3 seconds.
The group explains that under this new method, water is solidified since its molecules penetrate through layers of clay that are connected firmly by the organic substances.
The group says the new material is 50 times more resilient than other similar materials that have been recently developed.
The group says there are high expectations for utilizing the material as surgical adhesives and for other medical purposes since it is eco-friendly and safe to be used in the human body.
The group says the material may also replace petrochemical plastics if its resilience is heightened.
Professor Aida says his group hopes to promote the wider use of environmentally-friendly materials.
The research results will be reported in the British science journal Nature on Thursday.
2010年1月20日水曜日
X-ray analyses of Renoir works on display in Tokyo
An exhibition of works by the French impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir opens at a museum in Tokyo on Wednesday. It features rare analyses of his painting techniques using X-ray and infrared ray technologies.
On display at the National Art Center, Tokyo, are 77 paintings and sculptures by Renoir. Works such as "Woman with a fan" have a Japanese influence.
The exhibition includes the results of a study conducted by the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, west of Tokyo.
It analyzed Renoir's paintings using X-ray and infrared devices.
An infrared study reveals inner body lines on a bathing woman in one painting, showing that the first version was thinner.
An X-ray analysis of another painting, "The Coiffure," indicates that Renoir repeatedly altered a woman's hands.
A Pola Museum of Art official says its study has shed light on Renoir's overpainting technique.
The exhibition continues until April 5th
On display at the National Art Center, Tokyo, are 77 paintings and sculptures by Renoir. Works such as "Woman with a fan" have a Japanese influence.
The exhibition includes the results of a study conducted by the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, west of Tokyo.
It analyzed Renoir's paintings using X-ray and infrared devices.
An infrared study reveals inner body lines on a bathing woman in one painting, showing that the first version was thinner.
An X-ray analysis of another painting, "The Coiffure," indicates that Renoir repeatedly altered a woman's hands.
A Pola Museum of Art official says its study has shed light on Renoir's overpainting technique.
The exhibition continues until April 5th
2010年1月19日火曜日
JAL files for corporate bankruptcy
Japan Airlines has filed for bankruptcy court protection, and will receive full support from the state-backed corporate turnaround body for its rehabilitation.
The airline sought help from the Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corporation, which is partially funded by the government, after running into financial difficulties last October.
Last week, the government, the corporation and JAL's main creditor banks agreed that the airline must undergo court-led bankruptcy proceedings to receive the corporation's help.
JAL approved the measure at its board meeting on Tuesday, and filed for court protection from creditors under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law.
The Tokyo District Court approved the start of the procedures.
The JAL Group is saddled by debts of more than 22.8 billion dollars as of the end of September, making it the biggest nonfinancial corporate failure in Japan.
The turnaround body has pledged full support for the airline as its court-appointed trustee.
The body will provide JAL with credit worth about 6.6 billion dollars from the state-backed Development Bank of Japan and other institutions, while offering about 3.3 billion dollars of its own funds.
JAL President Haruka Nishimura will be replaced by Kazuo Inamori, the founder and honorary chairman of electronic components maker Kyocera Corporation. Inamori will become the airline's CEO.
The airline sought help from the Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corporation, which is partially funded by the government, after running into financial difficulties last October.
Last week, the government, the corporation and JAL's main creditor banks agreed that the airline must undergo court-led bankruptcy proceedings to receive the corporation's help.
JAL approved the measure at its board meeting on Tuesday, and filed for court protection from creditors under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law.
The Tokyo District Court approved the start of the procedures.
The JAL Group is saddled by debts of more than 22.8 billion dollars as of the end of September, making it the biggest nonfinancial corporate failure in Japan.
The turnaround body has pledged full support for the airline as its court-appointed trustee.
The body will provide JAL with credit worth about 6.6 billion dollars from the state-backed Development Bank of Japan and other institutions, while offering about 3.3 billion dollars of its own funds.
JAL President Haruka Nishimura will be replaced by Kazuo Inamori, the founder and honorary chairman of electronic components maker Kyocera Corporation. Inamori will become the airline's CEO.
2010年1月18日月曜日
New Year bullfight held in Matsue
An annual New Year's bullfight tournament took place on Okino-shima island in the Sea of Japan on Monday, with one-ton bulls battling against each another instead of a matador.
Bullfighting in Japan is believed to date back to the 13th century, when bouts were held to amuse the ex-emperor Gotoba, who had been deported to Okino-shima in Shimane prefecture by the then Samurai authorities.
In Japanese bullfighting, a pair of bulls clash by locking horns and pushing until one of them turns tail and runs.
16 bulls from 3 to 8 years old participated in the island's New Year tournament, for a total of 8 matches.
To get the New Year off to a harmonious start, a special rule shortening the amount of fighting time was employed to prevent any contestant from suffering a loss.
But some of the bulls were too excited to stop fighting even after a draw was declared, and had to be pulled apart by their reins.
About 300 tourists and local spectators watched the bullfights.
Bullfighting in Japan is believed to date back to the 13th century, when bouts were held to amuse the ex-emperor Gotoba, who had been deported to Okino-shima in Shimane prefecture by the then Samurai authorities.
In Japanese bullfighting, a pair of bulls clash by locking horns and pushing until one of them turns tail and runs.
16 bulls from 3 to 8 years old participated in the island's New Year tournament, for a total of 8 matches.
To get the New Year off to a harmonious start, a special rule shortening the amount of fighting time was employed to prevent any contestant from suffering a loss.
But some of the bulls were too excited to stop fighting even after a draw was declared, and had to be pulled apart by their reins.
About 300 tourists and local spectators watched the bullfights.
Japan to nominate 2 sites for World Heritage
The Japanese government will nominate 2 places in Japan as candidates to become UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Relevant government offices agreed on Monday to nominate the Hiraizumi cultural site, made up of Chuson-ji Temple in Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, and ruins in the surrounding area.
The cultural landscape, supposedly a recreation of the Buddhist paradise, was built in the early 12th century by the Oshu-Fujiwara family, who ruled the region.
The other site selected is the Ogasawara islands, which lie about 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo in the Pacific. The islands are rich in animals and plants found nowhere else in the world.
Among them are the bird species Columba janthina nitens, and a type of blue butterfly called lycaenidae. The islands have been dubbed the Galapagos of the East.
The government will file a nomination document with the World Heritage Committee by February 1st and a team of experts will begin an on-the-spot survey of the 2 sites by around this summer.
The UNESCO committee will then decide whether to add these 2 sites to the 14 Japanese sites already registered as World Heritage sites.
Relevant government offices agreed on Monday to nominate the Hiraizumi cultural site, made up of Chuson-ji Temple in Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, and ruins in the surrounding area.
The cultural landscape, supposedly a recreation of the Buddhist paradise, was built in the early 12th century by the Oshu-Fujiwara family, who ruled the region.
The other site selected is the Ogasawara islands, which lie about 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo in the Pacific. The islands are rich in animals and plants found nowhere else in the world.
Among them are the bird species Columba janthina nitens, and a type of blue butterfly called lycaenidae. The islands have been dubbed the Galapagos of the East.
The government will file a nomination document with the World Heritage Committee by February 1st and a team of experts will begin an on-the-spot survey of the 2 sites by around this summer.
The UNESCO committee will then decide whether to add these 2 sites to the 14 Japanese sites already registered as World Heritage sites.
2010年1月17日日曜日
15th anniversary of Great Hanshin Earthquake
A memorial service was held for the victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake on its 15th anniversary on Sunday. The tremor hit the port city of Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture and nearby areas in western Japan, leaving 6,434 people dead.
Participants offered a silent prayer at noon to peals of a bell sounded by new adults who turned 20 over the past year.
Hyogo Governor Toshizo Ido vowed future efforts to minimize damage from possible natural disasters based on lessons gained from the earthquake.
In his speech, the Crown Prince expressed hope that quake survivors will cooperate in making their communities peaceful and safe, and that their experiences will be passed on to future generations at home and abroad.
On behalf of the victims' families, Kiyoshi Matsuura, who lost his 16-year-old son in the earthquake, said survivors have helped, talked, and shed tears with each other during the past 15 years while thinking about what they can do.
Participants placed flowers on an altar and renewed their vows to prevent damages from disasters.
Participants offered a silent prayer at noon to peals of a bell sounded by new adults who turned 20 over the past year.
Hyogo Governor Toshizo Ido vowed future efforts to minimize damage from possible natural disasters based on lessons gained from the earthquake.
In his speech, the Crown Prince expressed hope that quake survivors will cooperate in making their communities peaceful and safe, and that their experiences will be passed on to future generations at home and abroad.
On behalf of the victims' families, Kiyoshi Matsuura, who lost his 16-year-old son in the earthquake, said survivors have helped, talked, and shed tears with each other during the past 15 years while thinking about what they can do.
Participants placed flowers on an altar and renewed their vows to prevent damages from disasters.
2010年1月16日土曜日
National university entrance exam begins
Japan's annual national university entrance examination began on Saturday.
The number of applicants taking the exam has increased by about 9,300, or 17 percent from last year, exceeding 553,000.
The examination is offered to students attending low-fee pubic universities. The increased number of students taking the exam this year reflects the fact that more students have chosen to attend less expensive universities amid the continuing economic slump.
On the first day, the students are being tested on civics, geography, history, Japanese and foreign languages, including an English listening test. Applicants will be tested on science and mathematics on Sunday.
The number of applicants taking the exam has increased by about 9,300, or 17 percent from last year, exceeding 553,000.
The examination is offered to students attending low-fee pubic universities. The increased number of students taking the exam this year reflects the fact that more students have chosen to attend less expensive universities amid the continuing economic slump.
On the first day, the students are being tested on civics, geography, history, Japanese and foreign languages, including an English listening test. Applicants will be tested on science and mathematics on Sunday.
2010年1月13日水曜日
Cold spell brings snow to wide areas of Japan
A sudden cold spell has hit parts of Japan, bringing snow from northern through western areas, as well as gusty winds across a wider region.
The Meteorological Agency says heavy snow has been observed mainly on the Sea of Japan coast and Kyushu in southwestern Japan.
On Wednesday morning, 9 centimeters of snow was recorded in Nagasaki City, in Kyushu.
It is the first time in 9 years for Nagasaki City to be hit by snowfall over 5 centimeters.
The snow is expected to continue for some time.
Air travel has been badly affected, with 148 flights canceled across Japan so far.
The Meteorological Agency says heavy snow has been observed mainly on the Sea of Japan coast and Kyushu in southwestern Japan.
On Wednesday morning, 9 centimeters of snow was recorded in Nagasaki City, in Kyushu.
It is the first time in 9 years for Nagasaki City to be hit by snowfall over 5 centimeters.
The snow is expected to continue for some time.
Air travel has been badly affected, with 148 flights canceled across Japan so far.
2010年1月11日月曜日
Workers treated unfairly after maternity leave
A Japanese government survey shows that there are a growing number of cases where workers are being treated unfairly for taking childcare leave.
Japanese labor laws prohibit companies from dismissing or demoting workers simply for taking childcare leave.
However, a labor ministry survey reveals that there were 848 such complaints at labor bureaus throughout the nation from April to September 2009.
The number of such complaints increased by 336 from the same period a year earlier.
From April to September last year, 1,081 workers claimed that they were treated unfairly at work because of pregnancy or childbirth. That is 103 more cases than during the same period in 2008.
The labor ministry says it suspects the increase in unfair treatment complaints is likely due to the recent economic downturn.
The ministry says it will also provide guidance to companies to help them improve working conditions for staff with children.
Japanese labor laws prohibit companies from dismissing or demoting workers simply for taking childcare leave.
However, a labor ministry survey reveals that there were 848 such complaints at labor bureaus throughout the nation from April to September 2009.
The number of such complaints increased by 336 from the same period a year earlier.
From April to September last year, 1,081 workers claimed that they were treated unfairly at work because of pregnancy or childbirth. That is 103 more cases than during the same period in 2008.
The labor ministry says it suspects the increase in unfair treatment complaints is likely due to the recent economic downturn.
The ministry says it will also provide guidance to companies to help them improve working conditions for staff with children.
Good luck race held at Nishinomiya Shrine
In Nishinomiya, western Japan, crowds of men rushed through the compound of a Shinto shrine on Sunday to win the title of this year's luckiest man.
At 6 AM, the gate of Nishinomiya Shrine was opened to the sound of a big drum. The first group of 108 men, who were selected by lottery, started the 200 meter race towards the main shrine.
The New Year ritual is said to have begun about 2 centuries ago.
Before the early morning contest, a priest said prayers for the safety of the participants.
A 22 year old student won the race. He is in his third year at a sports science university and belongs to the school's track and field club.
He said he is glad to be the luckiest man, and hopes he will be lucky enough to qualify for the national track and field competition and achieve a good result.
The 3 top runners broke a sake barrel in front of the main shrine and served drinks to the people who wanted to share in their good luck.
At 6 AM, the gate of Nishinomiya Shrine was opened to the sound of a big drum. The first group of 108 men, who were selected by lottery, started the 200 meter race towards the main shrine.
The New Year ritual is said to have begun about 2 centuries ago.
Before the early morning contest, a priest said prayers for the safety of the participants.
A 22 year old student won the race. He is in his third year at a sports science university and belongs to the school's track and field club.
He said he is glad to be the luckiest man, and hopes he will be lucky enough to qualify for the national track and field competition and achieve a good result.
The 3 top runners broke a sake barrel in front of the main shrine and served drinks to the people who wanted to share in their good luck.
2010年1月10日日曜日
Record 1.28 mil Japanese families live on welfare
A Japanese government survey has found the number of households dependent on welfare benefits hit a record high in October last year.
The welfare ministry says over 1.28 million households received welfare benefits in October, up more than 14,000 from the previous month.
The increase was roughly broken down into about 3,000 elderly households, 1,200 single-mother households, and 1,000 families whose income earners have disabilities. But 5,600 other households, the largest group, included many whose providers had lost jobs.
The number of individual welfare recipients also surged to 1.77 million, up more than 20,000 from the month before.
During the year through last October, the number of households dependent on welfare benefits rose by more than 130,000 or 11.7 percent. The same period saw the number of individuals who received welfare benefits increase by more than 180,000 or 1.5 percent.
The ministry says it will take measures to address the worsening employment situation and stem the rise in the number of welfare recipients.
The welfare ministry says over 1.28 million households received welfare benefits in October, up more than 14,000 from the previous month.
The increase was roughly broken down into about 3,000 elderly households, 1,200 single-mother households, and 1,000 families whose income earners have disabilities. But 5,600 other households, the largest group, included many whose providers had lost jobs.
The number of individual welfare recipients also surged to 1.77 million, up more than 20,000 from the month before.
During the year through last October, the number of households dependent on welfare benefits rose by more than 130,000 or 11.7 percent. The same period saw the number of individuals who received welfare benefits increase by more than 180,000 or 1.5 percent.
The ministry says it will take measures to address the worsening employment situation and stem the rise in the number of welfare recipients.
Ebbessan of Gion
An annual festival at the Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto to pray for business prosperity got underway on Saturday.
On the first day of the festival, called Ebessan of Gion, parishioners disguised as the Seven Gods of Good Fortune mounted a float which then left the shrine.
They chanted loudly "Bring bamboo grass for business prosperity", as the float moved along the central street of the city.
Young women of good luck dressed as shrine maidens handed green bamboo grass deemed to be a symbol of good luck to local business people lining the streets.
A clerk in a confectionery shop said he hopes for good business this year, as sales were stagnant due to the tough economic conditions last year.
On the first day of the festival, called Ebessan of Gion, parishioners disguised as the Seven Gods of Good Fortune mounted a float which then left the shrine.
They chanted loudly "Bring bamboo grass for business prosperity", as the float moved along the central street of the city.
Young women of good luck dressed as shrine maidens handed green bamboo grass deemed to be a symbol of good luck to local business people lining the streets.
A clerk in a confectionery shop said he hopes for good business this year, as sales were stagnant due to the tough economic conditions last year.
2010年1月7日木曜日
Traditional New Year porridge served in Tokyo
Farmers in Tokyo served traditional rice porridge with 7 spring herbs for 1,000 diners on Thursday.
January 7th is the day many people in Japan eat the dish to pray for good health in the New Year.
A group of farmers in northern Tokyo organized the event. The farmers cooked 120 kilograms of vegetables and 30 kilograms of rice for about an hour to prepare the porridge. Five huge pots were mobilized, each measuring one meter in diameter.
The porridge was cooked according to a recipe handed down among local farmers. It includes locally-produced taros and carrots as well as rice cake to make the dish sweeter.
The porridge was served free of charge, and all 1,000 servings were gone in just one hour.
A fifth grader who lives in the neighborhood said that the porridge was delicious, with a nice taste of vegetables.
January 7th is the day many people in Japan eat the dish to pray for good health in the New Year.
A group of farmers in northern Tokyo organized the event. The farmers cooked 120 kilograms of vegetables and 30 kilograms of rice for about an hour to prepare the porridge. Five huge pots were mobilized, each measuring one meter in diameter.
The porridge was cooked according to a recipe handed down among local farmers. It includes locally-produced taros and carrots as well as rice cake to make the dish sweeter.
The porridge was served free of charge, and all 1,000 servings were gone in just one hour.
A fifth grader who lives in the neighborhood said that the porridge was delicious, with a nice taste of vegetables.
Record 81 copper mirrors found in ancient tomb
Japanese archaeologists say they have unearthed at least 81 copper mirrors from an ancient burial mound in Sakurai City, near Osaka, the largest-ever single find from one tomb. They say the size of the find indicates it was a ruler who was buried there.
Nara Prefecture's archaeological institute last year began examining the Sakurai Chausu-yama tomb, believed to have been built in the early 4th century. The 200-meter-long key-hole-shaped burial mound was first excavated 60 years ago.
The archaeologists say that they found more than 300 broken pieces of copper mirrors, which were status symbols in Japan's ancient dynasty. They say they confirmed the fragments are those of at least 13 different types of mirrors.
The chief curator at the Chikatsu Asuka Museum in Osaka, Taichiro Shiraishi, says that he was surprised at the number and variety of the mirrors. He says the discovery clearly shows that the tomb was built for the then Japanese ruler.
Nara Prefecture's archaeological institute last year began examining the Sakurai Chausu-yama tomb, believed to have been built in the early 4th century. The 200-meter-long key-hole-shaped burial mound was first excavated 60 years ago.
The archaeologists say that they found more than 300 broken pieces of copper mirrors, which were status symbols in Japan's ancient dynasty. They say they confirmed the fragments are those of at least 13 different types of mirrors.
The chief curator at the Chikatsu Asuka Museum in Osaka, Taichiro Shiraishi, says that he was surprised at the number and variety of the mirrors. He says the discovery clearly shows that the tomb was built for the then Japanese ruler.
Seiji Ozawa cancels concerts due to cancer
Japan's renowned orchestral conductor, Seiji Ozawa, has been diagnosed with cancer and is canceling all performances in the next 6 months to concentrate on having treatment.
Ozawa held a news conference with his doctor in Tokyo on Thursday to give information on his health and plans.
Ozawa said he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer when he had an annual health exam last month. He said the cancer was caught in its initial stage.
Ozawa, who is 74, said he will cancel all 30 performances scheduled for the next 6 months. These include one at the Vienna State Opera, scheduled for January 15th, where he currently serves as musical director.
Ozawa said he was very sorry for the audience and staff as he was supposed to be in Vienna on Thursday.
He added that he hopes to be back within 6 months after receiving medical treatment under his doctor's supervision. He showed a willingness to return to the stage this summer, in performances including the Saito Kinen Festival scheduled for August and September in Matsumoto, central Japan.
Ozawa has conducted many orchestras around the world, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Ozawa held a news conference with his doctor in Tokyo on Thursday to give information on his health and plans.
Ozawa said he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer when he had an annual health exam last month. He said the cancer was caught in its initial stage.
Ozawa, who is 74, said he will cancel all 30 performances scheduled for the next 6 months. These include one at the Vienna State Opera, scheduled for January 15th, where he currently serves as musical director.
Ozawa said he was very sorry for the audience and staff as he was supposed to be in Vienna on Thursday.
He added that he hopes to be back within 6 months after receiving medical treatment under his doctor's supervision. He showed a willingness to return to the stage this summer, in performances including the Saito Kinen Festival scheduled for August and September in Matsumoto, central Japan.
Ozawa has conducted many orchestras around the world, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
2010年1月6日水曜日
Tokyo firefighters mark start of New Year
About 2,700 firefighters and volunteers have held a ceremony in Tokyo marking the start of the New Year.
Tokyo Fire Department head, Yuji Arai, said his department aims to encourage disaster prevention in the community through anti-fire drills.
Performers wearing Happi coats gave a traditional acrobatic performance atop long ladders.
A rescue drill was held on the assumption that a powerful earthquake had hit the capital, causing a tsunami.
Drill participants used heavy machinery to remove debris to get to the injured on the ground, while helicopters were deployed at sea to rescue those swept away.
The ceremony ended with applause from spectators as a fleet of fire engines, vessels and helicopters sprayed massive jets of water.
Tokyo Fire Department head, Yuji Arai, said his department aims to encourage disaster prevention in the community through anti-fire drills.
Performers wearing Happi coats gave a traditional acrobatic performance atop long ladders.
A rescue drill was held on the assumption that a powerful earthquake had hit the capital, causing a tsunami.
Drill participants used heavy machinery to remove debris to get to the injured on the ground, while helicopters were deployed at sea to rescue those swept away.
The ceremony ended with applause from spectators as a fleet of fire engines, vessels and helicopters sprayed massive jets of water.
Yokozunas perform ring-entering ceremony
Sumo grand champions Hakuho and Asashoryu have performed an annual ring-entering ceremony at a Shinto shrine in central Tokyo.
About 3,500 fans flocked to see the two Mongolian-born yokozunas at the traditional New Year event on Wednesday.
Hakuho, who finished 2009 with a record 86 overall victories in 90 bouts, captivated the spectators with his powerful performance in the ritual.
He appeared fit at an official training session observed by Sumo Association advisers on Tuesday, ahead of the New Year tourney starting next Sunday.
Hakuho said the ring-entering ritual motivated him to buckle down to get good results like he did last year.
Asashoryu, who'd had a rather disappointing performance in the training session, said the crowd of spectators encouraged him to do his best this year.
About 3,500 fans flocked to see the two Mongolian-born yokozunas at the traditional New Year event on Wednesday.
Hakuho, who finished 2009 with a record 86 overall victories in 90 bouts, captivated the spectators with his powerful performance in the ritual.
He appeared fit at an official training session observed by Sumo Association advisers on Tuesday, ahead of the New Year tourney starting next Sunday.
Hakuho said the ring-entering ritual motivated him to buckle down to get good results like he did last year.
Asashoryu, who'd had a rather disappointing performance in the training session, said the crowd of spectators encouraged him to do his best this year.
2010年1月5日火曜日
Tsukiji fish market kicks off year's trade
The first auction of the New Year has taken place at Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market, one of the biggest seafood markets in the world.
About 300 wholesalers attended a ceremony on Tuesday at the market, which is also known as the kitchen of the Tokyo metropolitan area due to its massive trading volume.
A representative of the wholesalers said in a speech that despite the cuts in the tuna fishing quota, traders should work hard to ensure stable supplies, because the fish means so much to Japanese dinner tables.
The usual activity then quickly returned to the auction floor, where about 2,300 tunas were sold amid the sound of bells and trading calls.
The most sought-after batch fetched about 16-million yen, or 177,000 dollars.
The successful bidder said the price was high, but that he's happy to have secured the best fish. He added that even though the economy remains tough, he hopes this year will be a little better than the last.
About 300 wholesalers attended a ceremony on Tuesday at the market, which is also known as the kitchen of the Tokyo metropolitan area due to its massive trading volume.
A representative of the wholesalers said in a speech that despite the cuts in the tuna fishing quota, traders should work hard to ensure stable supplies, because the fish means so much to Japanese dinner tables.
The usual activity then quickly returned to the auction floor, where about 2,300 tunas were sold amid the sound of bells and trading calls.
The most sought-after batch fetched about 16-million yen, or 177,000 dollars.
The successful bidder said the price was high, but that he's happy to have secured the best fish. He added that even though the economy remains tough, he hopes this year will be a little better than the last.
New graduates stuck with part-time jobs up 84%
A Japanese government survey has found that the number of people who became part-time workers after graduating from school last year nearly doubled from the year before.
The labor ministry surveyed the employment situation of more than 880,000 people who graduated from high schools, vocational schools and colleges in the first half of last year.
The results show that 177,000 people, or about 20 percent, landed part-time instead of full-time, regular jobs. This is an increase by 84 percent from the same period the previous year.
About 30,000 new graduates from colleges and graduate schools settled for part-time jobs. This is more than double the figure from a year earlier.
Labor ministry officials say that the severe employment situation is causing even college graduates to face difficulty in finding regular jobs.
The labor ministry surveyed the employment situation of more than 880,000 people who graduated from high schools, vocational schools and colleges in the first half of last year.
The results show that 177,000 people, or about 20 percent, landed part-time instead of full-time, regular jobs. This is an increase by 84 percent from the same period the previous year.
About 30,000 new graduates from colleges and graduate schools settled for part-time jobs. This is more than double the figure from a year earlier.
Labor ministry officials say that the severe employment situation is causing even college graduates to face difficulty in finding regular jobs.
2010年1月4日月曜日
Japanese government works on preventing suicide
Japan's Cabinet Office will for the first time target a particular month for anti-suicide measures in March, when the number of people taking their own lives surges every year.
The National Police Agency says 30,181 people committed suicide from the start of 2009 until November 30th. It is the 12th consecutive year that the number has topped 30,000.
Police fear that suicides will rise as people lose work in the current dire economic situation.
The government will set up a section to provide advice on mental health care and debt problems at local job placement centers nationwide.
It also plans to study anti-suicide practices in the private sector and have them implemented by local municipalities.
The National Police Agency says 30,181 people committed suicide from the start of 2009 until November 30th. It is the 12th consecutive year that the number has topped 30,000.
Police fear that suicides will rise as people lose work in the current dire economic situation.
The government will set up a section to provide advice on mental health care and debt problems at local job placement centers nationwide.
It also plans to study anti-suicide practices in the private sector and have them implemented by local municipalities.
Kyoto city workers wear kimono on first work day
About 200 city employees of the ancient Japanese capital of Kyoto wore kimono to work on Monday, the first working day of the New Year.
The idea was to help promote the city's kimono industry, which has been hit hard by the recession.
The city office says yuzen-dyed fabrics produced in Kyoto during the 2008 business year amounted to only 3.7 percent of output in 1971, when the industry was at its peak. Many kimono businesses are suffering in the severe economic downturn.
The municipal office plans to exhibit locally produced kimono at a fashion show for young people in Tokyo in March to encourage more people to wear the traditional Japanese clothing.
The idea was to help promote the city's kimono industry, which has been hit hard by the recession.
The city office says yuzen-dyed fabrics produced in Kyoto during the 2008 business year amounted to only 3.7 percent of output in 1971, when the industry was at its peak. Many kimono businesses are suffering in the severe economic downturn.
The municipal office plans to exhibit locally produced kimono at a fashion show for young people in Tokyo in March to encourage more people to wear the traditional Japanese clothing.
2010年1月3日日曜日
Universities plan 2nd entrance exams due to flu
More than 500 universities and colleges in Japan are planning to hold additional entrance exams for applicants who fail to take the first ones due to the H1N1 flu pandemic.
The education ministry surveyed 1,096 universities and junior colleges across Japan that hold their own tests other than the country's unified preliminary entrance exams.
The survey shows that 545 public and private institutions, or nearly half the total, plan additional exams for students who were infected with the flu and could not take the first ones.
Rikkyo University in Tokyo will hold its second entrance exam on February 28th, 2 weeks after the original exam schedule is complete.
A university official says staff began preparing additional exams on 10 subjects since around June, shortly after the first flu patients were confirmed in Japan.
The official says preparations were not easy but the university made the decision to help applicants feel secure.
The education ministry surveyed 1,096 universities and junior colleges across Japan that hold their own tests other than the country's unified preliminary entrance exams.
The survey shows that 545 public and private institutions, or nearly half the total, plan additional exams for students who were infected with the flu and could not take the first ones.
Rikkyo University in Tokyo will hold its second entrance exam on February 28th, 2 weeks after the original exam schedule is complete.
A university official says staff began preparing additional exams on 10 subjects since around June, shortly after the first flu patients were confirmed in Japan.
The official says preparations were not easy but the university made the decision to help applicants feel secure.
Japan swordmakers in New Year ritual
A Japanese sword-making ceremony held Saturday in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture.
The city has been a production center for swords and knives since the Kamakura period, in the 13 century.
The New Year's ceremony is to pray for safety at work.
17 swordsmiths attended the ritual in traditional costume of white clothing and formal headwear.
They began by lighting a fire, which was used to heat steel for a sword until it became red hot. Then, 4 craftsmen tempered the metal with a hammer.
About 300 visitors watched the ceremony.
The city has been a production center for swords and knives since the Kamakura period, in the 13 century.
The New Year's ceremony is to pray for safety at work.
17 swordsmiths attended the ritual in traditional costume of white clothing and formal headwear.
They began by lighting a fire, which was used to heat steel for a sword until it became red hot. Then, 4 craftsmen tempered the metal with a hammer.
About 300 visitors watched the ceremony.
The population of Tokyo will exceed 13 million in 2010.
The metropolitan government estimates the population of Japan's capital on December 1st last year stood at 12 million 993,000.
After rapid economic growth in the 1960's, Tokyo's population remained flat for about 30 years. But it began to increase again in 1996, and the trend has continued. Annual growth rate is now about 100,000.
One expert says that Tokyo's population will peak in 2020 and will begin to decline as the society ages.
After rapid economic growth in the 1960's, Tokyo's population remained flat for about 30 years. But it began to increase again in 1996, and the trend has continued. Annual growth rate is now about 100,000.
One expert says that Tokyo's population will peak in 2020 and will begin to decline as the society ages.
2010年1月2日土曜日
Photographers take pictures of red-crowned cranes
Many photographers descended on Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido on Saturday to take pictures of red-crowned cranes, a protected species.
The Setsuri River, which flows through Tsurui Village near Kushiro city, serves as a nesting place for the cranes as it rarely freezes even during winter.
Usually, at this time of year, fog shrouds the birds, and the surface of the river shimmers reflecting the morning sunshine. This year, though, the breathtaking scenes did not appear because of relatively high temperatures.
About 20 photographers set up cameras equipped with a telephoto lens before dawn to capture moments of the birds wading through the river or flying over a bridge.
A man from Chiba Prefecture said he is sorry that temperatures are higher than usual. He added, however, that he will stay at the village to take beautiful photos.
Graceful figures of the cranes can be observed through around March in the region.
The Setsuri River, which flows through Tsurui Village near Kushiro city, serves as a nesting place for the cranes as it rarely freezes even during winter.
Usually, at this time of year, fog shrouds the birds, and the surface of the river shimmers reflecting the morning sunshine. This year, though, the breathtaking scenes did not appear because of relatively high temperatures.
About 20 photographers set up cameras equipped with a telephoto lens before dawn to capture moments of the birds wading through the river or flying over a bridge.
A man from Chiba Prefecture said he is sorry that temperatures are higher than usual. He added, however, that he will stay at the village to take beautiful photos.
Graceful figures of the cranes can be observed through around March in the region.
Traditional New Year's ceremony held in Okinawa
In Okinawa Prefecture, southwestern Japan, a traditional New Year's ceremony took place at Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
For around 450 years until the late 19th century, the Ryukyu Dynasty royal ceremony used to be held annually on New Year's Day morning.
On Saturday, about 40 people dressed in black or blue recreated the event, acting in the roles of royals and officials. They assembled in the courtyard that faces the main building of Shuri Castle, where the king traditionally performed his duties.
As drums and gongs rang out, Okinawa's traditional Sanshin guitar joined in accompaniment. The king and queen appeared at the main building in formal gorgeous attire.
They stepped down to the courtyard and bowed deeply to the altar to pray for peace and prosperity in the new year.
Others in the courtyard began to chant "Ban-sui", praying in local Okinawan dialect for the long life of the king.
Many visitors watched the ceremony in a solemn atmosphere. A couple from Tokyo said they felt the solemnity of the history of the Ryukyu Dynasty.
For around 450 years until the late 19th century, the Ryukyu Dynasty royal ceremony used to be held annually on New Year's Day morning.
On Saturday, about 40 people dressed in black or blue recreated the event, acting in the roles of royals and officials. They assembled in the courtyard that faces the main building of Shuri Castle, where the king traditionally performed his duties.
As drums and gongs rang out, Okinawa's traditional Sanshin guitar joined in accompaniment. The king and queen appeared at the main building in formal gorgeous attire.
They stepped down to the courtyard and bowed deeply to the altar to pray for peace and prosperity in the new year.
Others in the courtyard began to chant "Ban-sui", praying in local Okinawan dialect for the long life of the king.
Many visitors watched the ceremony in a solemn atmosphere. A couple from Tokyo said they felt the solemnity of the history of the Ryukyu Dynasty.
Crowds pack department stores on 1st business day
Department stores across Japan are crowded with bargain hunters on Saturday, their first day of business in the new year.
Many bargain shoppers are after "lucky bags", which are sealed so that their contents remain unknown to buyers. The value of the contents typically far exceeds the listed price.
About 8,000 people lined up in front of a long-established department store in Tokyo's Nihonbashi district ahead of its opening at 10 AM. The department store had stocked 50-thousand lucky bags. They included traditional bags containing ladies' garments or daily necessities, and this year, more bags with food items for home cooking. The store's move is in response to the recent consumer trend of refraining from dining out to save money.
Consumer spending remained sluggish in 2009 due to the economic downturn and deflation. Last year's sales at department stores nationwide are estimated to fall below 7 trillion yen, or around 75 billion dollars, for the first time in 24 years. The operators are under pressure to take steps, including shutting down unprofitable outlets and trimming the workforce.
Many bargain shoppers are after "lucky bags", which are sealed so that their contents remain unknown to buyers. The value of the contents typically far exceeds the listed price.
About 8,000 people lined up in front of a long-established department store in Tokyo's Nihonbashi district ahead of its opening at 10 AM. The department store had stocked 50-thousand lucky bags. They included traditional bags containing ladies' garments or daily necessities, and this year, more bags with food items for home cooking. The store's move is in response to the recent consumer trend of refraining from dining out to save money.
Consumer spending remained sluggish in 2009 due to the economic downturn and deflation. Last year's sales at department stores nationwide are estimated to fall below 7 trillion yen, or around 75 billion dollars, for the first time in 24 years. The operators are under pressure to take steps, including shutting down unprofitable outlets and trimming the workforce.
2010年1月1日金曜日
Japan's population continues to decline
Japan's population is continuing to decline with an increasingly graying society and low birthrate.
The health and welfare ministry says about one-million 69,000 children were born across Japan in 2009. That's down 22,000 babies from a year earlier.
One-million 144,000 people died in 2009, up 2,000 people from the previous year.
The ministry says the annual number of deaths has increased continuously since 2001.
This resulted in Japan's largest-ever natural population decline of 75,000. The number of deaths surpassed that of births for the 3rd straight year.
The ministry says the average number of children born per woman in her lifetime is likely to level off around the 2008 figure of 1.37.
The ministry says it expects Japan's population to remain on the decline as the population of women of productive age is decreasing while the society is rapidly aging.
The health and welfare ministry says about one-million 69,000 children were born across Japan in 2009. That's down 22,000 babies from a year earlier.
One-million 144,000 people died in 2009, up 2,000 people from the previous year.
The ministry says the annual number of deaths has increased continuously since 2001.
This resulted in Japan's largest-ever natural population decline of 75,000. The number of deaths surpassed that of births for the 3rd straight year.
The ministry says the average number of children born per woman in her lifetime is likely to level off around the 2008 figure of 1.37.
The ministry says it expects Japan's population to remain on the decline as the population of women of productive age is decreasing while the society is rapidly aging.
Tokyo's Meiji Shrine crowded on New Year's day
Shrines and temples across Japan are crowded with worshippers praying for good luck in the coming year.
At Tokyo's Meiji Shrine, many worshippers started queuing at around 9 PM on New Years Eve.
The famous landmark attracts the largest number of New Year's visitors of all shrines in Japan.
After a drumbeat signaled the arrival of 2010, people threw money into the offertory box and said prayers.
Some visitors bought charms to ward off bad luck, while others wrote wishes on wooden plaques.
A Tokyo couple in their 40s said so many things happened to them last year but they managed and now wish for good health in the coming year.
A 19-year-old university student from the outskirts of Tokyo said he had great luck last year, passing an entrance exam and getting a girlfriend. He said he is determined to study hard this year in order to become a physiotherapist.
Meiji Shrine officials say they expect about 3 million visitors during the first 3 days of January.
At Tokyo's Meiji Shrine, many worshippers started queuing at around 9 PM on New Years Eve.
The famous landmark attracts the largest number of New Year's visitors of all shrines in Japan.
After a drumbeat signaled the arrival of 2010, people threw money into the offertory box and said prayers.
Some visitors bought charms to ward off bad luck, while others wrote wishes on wooden plaques.
A Tokyo couple in their 40s said so many things happened to them last year but they managed and now wish for good health in the coming year.
A 19-year-old university student from the outskirts of Tokyo said he had great luck last year, passing an entrance exam and getting a girlfriend. He said he is determined to study hard this year in order to become a physiotherapist.
Meiji Shrine officials say they expect about 3 million visitors during the first 3 days of January.
New Year's Eve purification rite at temple
Scores of people in loincloths, including children, cleansed themselves with water in sub-zero temperatures at a temple in western Japan on New Year's Eve.
The event at Jisso Temple in Fukuyama city started 5 years ago and people purify themselves with holy water before the New Year.
On Thursday night, 28 people, including a first-grader took part in the event. Children used pails to pour water over their bodies, taking cues from the priests. They were followed by the adults.
The kids let out screams as the freezing water hit their skin. One of them said his feet shivered in the cold.
A man who took part in the event for the 5th time said it was easier this year as he had done it in the snow before.
The event at Jisso Temple in Fukuyama city started 5 years ago and people purify themselves with holy water before the New Year.
On Thursday night, 28 people, including a first-grader took part in the event. Children used pails to pour water over their bodies, taking cues from the priests. They were followed by the adults.
The kids let out screams as the freezing water hit their skin. One of them said his feet shivered in the cold.
A man who took part in the event for the 5th time said it was easier this year as he had done it in the snow before.
.Kinkakuji Temple covered by snow on New Year's day
Snow in the ancient capital of Kyoto, western Japan, has fallen on the Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji Temple for the first time this winter.
Snow began falling in the city at around 9 PM on Thursday and continued on and off until Friday morning.
The roof of Kinkakuji Temple, located at the foot of a mountain, had a thin covering of snow, creating a fantastic scene with a reflection on the surrounding pond.
But the snow had melted by the time the temple opened to the public at 9 AM, except for some areas around the pond.
Tourists were seen taking photos of the snow-covered pavilion.
A woman from Gunma, central Japan, said the snow gave the temple a different kind of beauty and left her feeling refreshed on New Year's Day.
Weather officials say intermittent snowfall is expected in Kyoto throughout Friday.
Snow began falling in the city at around 9 PM on Thursday and continued on and off until Friday morning.
The roof of Kinkakuji Temple, located at the foot of a mountain, had a thin covering of snow, creating a fantastic scene with a reflection on the surrounding pond.
But the snow had melted by the time the temple opened to the public at 9 AM, except for some areas around the pond.
Tourists were seen taking photos of the snow-covered pavilion.
A woman from Gunma, central Japan, said the snow gave the temple a different kind of beauty and left her feeling refreshed on New Year's Day.
Weather officials say intermittent snowfall is expected in Kyoto throughout Friday.
Emperor delivers New Year's message
The Emperor and Empress have received New Year's greetings from family members and state dignitaries at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Among those attending the New Year ceremony on Friday morning were some 230 members of the Diet.
Lower House Speaker Takahiro Yokomichi and Upper House President Satsuki Eda offered good wishes to the Emperor and the imperial family on behalf of the legislators.
The Emperor said in a speech that he prays for the Japanese people and the country's development on the occasion of the New Year.
The Emperor also received greetings from Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, other cabinet ministers, and the chief justice of the Supreme Court.
In the afternoon, foreign ambassadors will visit the palace to offer their New Year compliments.
Among those attending the New Year ceremony on Friday morning were some 230 members of the Diet.
Lower House Speaker Takahiro Yokomichi and Upper House President Satsuki Eda offered good wishes to the Emperor and the imperial family on behalf of the legislators.
The Emperor said in a speech that he prays for the Japanese people and the country's development on the occasion of the New Year.
The Emperor also received greetings from Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, other cabinet ministers, and the chief justice of the Supreme Court.
In the afternoon, foreign ambassadors will visit the palace to offer their New Year compliments.
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