A symposium addressing anti-smoking measures and the problem of passive smoking was held in Tokyo to mark World No Tobacco Day on Monday.
The event, co-hosted by the World Health Organization, Japan's health and welfare ministry and others, involved about 200 people, including doctors and researchers.
A W-H-O expert noted that 600,000 people worldwide die from second-hand smoke every year, and that further regulations must be put in place to protect younger people from falling victim to cigarettes.
In Yokohama city, near Tokyo, an event was held to measure the ill effects of passive smoking. In the event, smokers learned that their lung-ages were more than double their actual ages.
The health ministry issued a non-binding directive calling for a blanket ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces in February, on the grounds that passive smoking increases the risk of lung cancer.
The city government of Kashiwa in Chiba Prefecture, near Tokyo, has totally banned smoking outdoors on the streets in and around the city's main railway station. They removed all the ashtrays in the city's designated smoking areas before dawn on Monday.
The government of Osaka Prefecture has prohibited its officials from smoking on the streets around its office building, in addition to areas inside the office and its compound.
2010年5月31日月曜日
Hokusai Exhibition
An exhibition of works by Japanese ukiyoe master Katsushika Hokusai is to open in Tokyo to mark the 250th anniversary of his birth.
The exhibition, which starts on Tuesday, features woodblock prints and paintings produced by the artist during his more-than-70-year career in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The first half of the exhibition, which runs through June 27th, features more than 100 pieces from Hokusai's early career, including prints of Kabuki actors and book illustrations.
Pictures portraying 3 women were created during a period when the artist was in his 40s and had first achieved recognition.
Depictions of ghosts by Hokusai were included in novels by the writer Takizawa Bakin, a contemporary of the artist.
The second half of the exhibition, from July 1st to 25th, will feature the artist's famed woodblock print series, "36 Views of Mount Fuji," and paintings from his later years.
2010年5月29日土曜日
Japan-US Security Treaty 50th anniversary
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the revision of the Japan-US Security Treaty. US and Japanese researchers met to discuss the relocation of Futenma Air Station and the future of Japan-US relations at a symposium in Tokyo on Thursday.
A former US ambassador to Japan, Michael Armacost, indicated that the US government is demanding a resolution to the base issue too quickly from an administration that has recently assumed office.
Armacost said it's important to remember the value of the Japan-US alliance at a time when China is growing and North Korea is carrying out provocative acts.
One panelist said Japan-US cooperation will increase in importance as the two countries each face the complicated issue of competition and cooperation with China.
Another participant said the Japan-US secret pacts should be a lesson to remember, and that the two governments should release information needed by people who want to discuss issues related to the alliance
A former US ambassador to Japan, Michael Armacost, indicated that the US government is demanding a resolution to the base issue too quickly from an administration that has recently assumed office.
Armacost said it's important to remember the value of the Japan-US alliance at a time when China is growing and North Korea is carrying out provocative acts.
One panelist said Japan-US cooperation will increase in importance as the two countries each face the complicated issue of competition and cooperation with China.
Another participant said the Japan-US secret pacts should be a lesson to remember, and that the two governments should release information needed by people who want to discuss issues related to the alliance
2010年5月28日金曜日
About 60% of Japanese interested in e-magazines
A survey by a Japanese publishers' group shows that about 60 percent of potential digital magazine readers would be willing to pay for downloadable content.
The Japan Magazine Publishing Association in January surveyed people who took part in a test run for electronic magazines. More than 1,800 people responded.
Nearly 70 percent of the respondents said e-magazines would be easier to buy than print issues, and also that it would be easier to search for articles. 58 percent said they would pay for digital publications.
E-magazines are expected to grow in popularity in Japan as more contents become available for PCs and portable platforms such as Apple's iPad.
The Japan Magazine Publishing Association in January surveyed people who took part in a test run for electronic magazines. More than 1,800 people responded.
Nearly 70 percent of the respondents said e-magazines would be easier to buy than print issues, and also that it would be easier to search for articles. 58 percent said they would pay for digital publications.
E-magazines are expected to grow in popularity in Japan as more contents become available for PCs and portable platforms such as Apple's iPad.
Stone Age meal served in Gunma
The cuisine of early Stone Age Japan was on the menu at an archaeological site north of Tokyo on Thursday.
The event was held at a museum next to the Iwajuku ruins in Gunma Prefecture, the first site in Japan that was proven to have had a Paleolithic culture.
A group of women studying ancient cuisine cooked and served the meals to guests, including officials from the local tourism industry.
The women cut meat with stone flints, wrapped it in leaves, and steam-roasted it on hot stones covered with soil. Burnt stones found at the Iwajuku ruins suggest this was the way Paleolithic-era people cooked their meat.
The menu also featured a pot of wild boar meat and acorn coffee.
One woman who helped cook the dishes says she wants guests to taste the natural flavors that ancient people enjoyed.
The Paleolithic cuisine will be served to museum visitors on Sundays from July to September.
The event was held at a museum next to the Iwajuku ruins in Gunma Prefecture, the first site in Japan that was proven to have had a Paleolithic culture.
A group of women studying ancient cuisine cooked and served the meals to guests, including officials from the local tourism industry.
The women cut meat with stone flints, wrapped it in leaves, and steam-roasted it on hot stones covered with soil. Burnt stones found at the Iwajuku ruins suggest this was the way Paleolithic-era people cooked their meat.
The menu also featured a pot of wild boar meat and acorn coffee.
One woman who helped cook the dishes says she wants guests to taste the natural flavors that ancient people enjoyed.
The Paleolithic cuisine will be served to museum visitors on Sundays from July to September.
2010年5月27日木曜日
Memorial service for war dead held on Ioto Island
Bereaved families of Japanese soldiers who were killed in World War Two in battles on the Pacific island of Ioto have held a memorial service.
In February and March of 1945, fierce fighting took place between Japanese and US forces on the island, located about 1,200 kilometers south of Tokyo. More than 28,000 Japanese and US soldiers died.
On Wednesday, about 60 people attended the ceremony on the island, which is usually off-limits to civilians.
The Tokyo government has been holding a memorial ceremony for these families since 1983.
A woman whose father died in the battle said she is determined that a war should never be repeated, pledging to convey the lessons to the next generation.
After the service, people visited sites of the fierce battles and offered flowers.
In February and March of 1945, fierce fighting took place between Japanese and US forces on the island, located about 1,200 kilometers south of Tokyo. More than 28,000 Japanese and US soldiers died.
On Wednesday, about 60 people attended the ceremony on the island, which is usually off-limits to civilians.
The Tokyo government has been holding a memorial ceremony for these families since 1983.
A woman whose father died in the battle said she is determined that a war should never be repeated, pledging to convey the lessons to the next generation.
After the service, people visited sites of the fierce battles and offered flowers.
2010年5月26日水曜日
Parcel company aids tourists
A major Japanese parcel delivery firm has created a unique service by instructing some of its staff to double-up as tourist guides.
The new operation began in the upscale Tokyo shopping district of Ginza on Wednesday. It was created in response to the many tourists who ask delivery staff for directions.
On the first day of the service, 42 female workers embarked from their newly opened office pushing delivery carts displaying stickers offering guidance in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. The staff also handed out leaflets saying they were available to help.
The response was almost immediate. One delivery woman was stopped by a visitor about 15 minutes into her job. A Frenchman on a business trip said he was grateful for her assistance, as he had been rushing to a meeting point.
The new operation began in the upscale Tokyo shopping district of Ginza on Wednesday. It was created in response to the many tourists who ask delivery staff for directions.
On the first day of the service, 42 female workers embarked from their newly opened office pushing delivery carts displaying stickers offering guidance in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. The staff also handed out leaflets saying they were available to help.
The response was almost immediate. One delivery woman was stopped by a visitor about 15 minutes into her job. A Frenchman on a business trip said he was grateful for her assistance, as he had been rushing to a meeting point.
Police want Sumo association to shun gangsters
Police are seeking to put Japan's sumo rings off limits to gangsters, after it came to light that senior members of crime syndicates had watched bouts from special seats.
The issue made headlines this week when police revealed that a total 55 members of a crime group had watched bouts from ringside seats at last July's Nagoya grand sumo tournament. The scandal came on top of a similar case in which the head of another crime syndicate watched bouts from ringside during this January's Tokyo tourney.
These seats are usually allotted only to individuals and businesses that make large donations to the Sumo Association. But the gang members had managed to acquire the tickets, which were originally arranged by 2 stable masters.
Police say they will step up monitoring to shut gangsters out of grand tournament venues in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka, as well as those for regional tours.
They also plan to ask the Sumo association to provide seminars for stable masters and wrestlers to raise awareness of the problem.
The issue made headlines this week when police revealed that a total 55 members of a crime group had watched bouts from ringside seats at last July's Nagoya grand sumo tournament. The scandal came on top of a similar case in which the head of another crime syndicate watched bouts from ringside during this January's Tokyo tourney.
These seats are usually allotted only to individuals and businesses that make large donations to the Sumo Association. But the gang members had managed to acquire the tickets, which were originally arranged by 2 stable masters.
Police say they will step up monitoring to shut gangsters out of grand tournament venues in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka, as well as those for regional tours.
They also plan to ask the Sumo association to provide seminars for stable masters and wrestlers to raise awareness of the problem.
2010年5月22日土曜日
Holiday goers enjoy beautiful roses in Tochigi
Holiday goers are enjoying a rose festival at a park in Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo, on Saturday.
About 2,000 rose plants in 240 varieties are on display at the 4,200-square-meter Igashira Park in Mooka City.
Among the most popular kinds are "Charleston," which has petals that change color from yellow to red, and "Gold Bunny" with round yellow petals.
People were seen buying seedlings at low prices and enjoying free rose hip tea. A woman says she enjoyed viewing the beautiful open roses although there are not many yet.
Park officials say bad weather this spring has delayed the roses from blooming fully, and that the best viewing time will be after next week.
2010/05/22 14:10(JST)
About 2,000 rose plants in 240 varieties are on display at the 4,200-square-meter Igashira Park in Mooka City.
Among the most popular kinds are "Charleston," which has petals that change color from yellow to red, and "Gold Bunny" with round yellow petals.
People were seen buying seedlings at low prices and enjoying free rose hip tea. A woman says she enjoyed viewing the beautiful open roses although there are not many yet.
Park officials say bad weather this spring has delayed the roses from blooming fully, and that the best viewing time will be after next week.
2010/05/22 14:10(JST)
2010年5月15日土曜日
Aoi Festival opens in Kyoto
The Aoi Festival was held in the ancient Japanese capital of Kyoto on Saturday.
The event began 1,400 years ago, when Emperor Kinmei ordered a race involving horses festooned with bells to pray for a good harvest.
The festival's name comes from the hollyhock decorations worn by the participants.
In the morning, a procession of some 500 people wearing traditional costumes left the old Imperial Palace for Shimogamo Shrine, 2 kilometers away.
Spectators were seen snapping pictures, particularly of a woman dressed in the elaborate kimono of a princess on a float.
The event began 1,400 years ago, when Emperor Kinmei ordered a race involving horses festooned with bells to pray for a good harvest.
The festival's name comes from the hollyhock decorations worn by the participants.
In the morning, a procession of some 500 people wearing traditional costumes left the old Imperial Palace for Shimogamo Shrine, 2 kilometers away.
Spectators were seen snapping pictures, particularly of a woman dressed in the elaborate kimono of a princess on a float.
2010年5月14日金曜日
Haneda international flights to resume on Oct 31
Tokyo's Haneda Airport will resume its handling of regular international flights for the first time in 32 years on October 31st.
Construction is now underway at the airport for a 4th runway and a new international terminal.
The transport ministry has decided to open the new runway and international terminal on October 21st, and to start services of regular international flights, mainly to Europe and the United States, on October 31st.
The 4th runway will allow the airport to handle 144,000 more landings and takeoffs annually. The airport will allocate 60,000 of them to international flights.
International flights out of Haneda are currently limited to short-distance chartered flights mainly to China and South Korea.
Haneda primarily handles domestic flights, while Narita Airport, which is farther than Haneda from downtown Tokyo, handles most international flights due to a government policy to separate their roles.
Construction is now underway at the airport for a 4th runway and a new international terminal.
The transport ministry has decided to open the new runway and international terminal on October 21st, and to start services of regular international flights, mainly to Europe and the United States, on October 31st.
The 4th runway will allow the airport to handle 144,000 more landings and takeoffs annually. The airport will allocate 60,000 of them to international flights.
International flights out of Haneda are currently limited to short-distance chartered flights mainly to China and South Korea.
Haneda primarily handles domestic flights, while Narita Airport, which is farther than Haneda from downtown Tokyo, handles most international flights due to a government policy to separate their roles.
Snow removed from Oze trail ahead of hiking season
The tradition of removing snow in the Oze National Park, a popular scenic spot in Japan, has become a major task this year because of unexpected snowfall just a week before the hiking season starts.
Seventeen guides and Environment Ministry officials took part in the annual activity on Friday at one of the mountains in the park that straddles 3 prefectures north of Tokyo.
Mountain trails, which are closed during the winter, usually have little snow at this time of the year.
But 50 centimeters of fresh snow is covering the paths.
The chief guide says he is surprised by the unseasonal snowfall, and he has never seen such deep snow before the start of the hiking season.
The trails will be open for hikers on May 21st.
Seventeen guides and Environment Ministry officials took part in the annual activity on Friday at one of the mountains in the park that straddles 3 prefectures north of Tokyo.
Mountain trails, which are closed during the winter, usually have little snow at this time of the year.
But 50 centimeters of fresh snow is covering the paths.
The chief guide says he is surprised by the unseasonal snowfall, and he has never seen such deep snow before the start of the hiking season.
The trails will be open for hikers on May 21st.
800-year Buddhist memorial service recreated
Monks in western Japan have reenacted a memorial service that the founder of a Buddhism sect held for the emperor about 800 years ago.
Monks of the Jodo sect, founded by the holy priest Honen, took part in the first-ever reproduction of the ritual at Chokodo Temple in Kyoto City on Thursday.
The service for the late emperor Goshirakawa was based on a 13th-century picture series. Depicting the life of Honen, the series is designated as a national treasure.
After an arrow was shot, traditional court music and dancing associated with a Chinese historical event were performed. The monks walked around the Buddhist image on the altar, chanting a sutra.
About 150 people watched the event.
The chief priest of the temple says the teachings of Honen still hold today and that he hopes the service made people feel closer to him.
Monks of the Jodo sect, founded by the holy priest Honen, took part in the first-ever reproduction of the ritual at Chokodo Temple in Kyoto City on Thursday.
The service for the late emperor Goshirakawa was based on a 13th-century picture series. Depicting the life of Honen, the series is designated as a national treasure.
After an arrow was shot, traditional court music and dancing associated with a Chinese historical event were performed. The monks walked around the Buddhist image on the altar, chanting a sutra.
About 150 people watched the event.
The chief priest of the temple says the teachings of Honen still hold today and that he hopes the service made people feel closer to him.
Sanja festival begins
A spectacular parade kicked off an early summer festival in the downtown Tokyo area of Asakusa on Friday.
The "Sanja-matsuri" of Asakusa shrine is one of Tokyo's major traditional festivals, attracting a million spectators each year.
On the first day of the three-day festival, revelers including dancing geisha in gorgeous kimono and men wearing "happi" coats paraded the streets, led by a decorated float.
Crowds of tourists flocked to the event, taking photos against the background of the city's tallest structure, the Tokyo Sky Tree, a broadcasting tower under construction near Asakusa.
A woman in her 40s from Kyushu, southern Japan, said she was thrilled to see both the traditional parade and the modern tower.
A couple from France said they were delighted by Tokyo's contrast of urban atmosphere and the old world environs of Asakusa.
The festival will peak on Sunday when three large portable shrines are hauled through the crowded streets.
2010年5月13日木曜日
Japanese suicides top 30,000 for 12th year
The number of suicides in Japan exceeded 30,000 last year for the 12th year in a row, with more people killing themselves because of the severe employment situation.
The National Police Agency says 32,845 people committed suicide in 2009.
People in their 50s accounted for the largest number at about 20 percent of the total. They were followed by those in their 60s and 40s.
Depression and other health problems were the leading cause of suicide for the 3rd straight year. These were followed by economic and job woes.
Among those taking their lives, 1,071 people killed themselves after losing their job, marking a surge of 65 percent.
Those who committed suicide due to economic hardship rose 34 percent to 1,731.
In response to the trend, the government in March launched an anti-suicide campaign for the unemployed at jobs centers nationwide
The National Police Agency says 32,845 people committed suicide in 2009.
People in their 50s accounted for the largest number at about 20 percent of the total. They were followed by those in their 60s and 40s.
Depression and other health problems were the leading cause of suicide for the 3rd straight year. These were followed by economic and job woes.
Among those taking their lives, 1,071 people killed themselves after losing their job, marking a surge of 65 percent.
Those who committed suicide due to economic hardship rose 34 percent to 1,731.
In response to the trend, the government in March launched an anti-suicide campaign for the unemployed at jobs centers nationwide
Survey shows Japanese kids addicted to cell phones
A survey on cell-phone use by Japanese children shows that one in six junior high school students must have their phones even at the dining table.
The survey, conducted last year by a national teachers and parents association, covered about 2,000 fifth-graders, an equal number of second-year junior high school students, and their parents.
About 20 percent of the fifth-graders and 42 percent of the junior high students said they own mobile phones.
Asked if they cannot put down their handsets even during meals, 6 percent of the fifth-graders said yes, as did 16 percent of the junior high students.
Twenty-one percent of the fifth-graders, and about 24 percent of the junior high school students said they feel anxious when their e-mails to friends go unanswered.
Nearly half of the junior high school students said they habitually exchange e-mails late at night, as did 7 percent of the fifth-graders.
Parents said their biggest worry is their children running up large phone bills. They are also concerned that e-mails may expose them to bullying or extortion, or that the Internet may lead them to harmful websites.
The PTA association says parents must take more responsibility in imposing proper rules because the survey shows that children are very dependent on mobile phones.
The survey, conducted last year by a national teachers and parents association, covered about 2,000 fifth-graders, an equal number of second-year junior high school students, and their parents.
About 20 percent of the fifth-graders and 42 percent of the junior high students said they own mobile phones.
Asked if they cannot put down their handsets even during meals, 6 percent of the fifth-graders said yes, as did 16 percent of the junior high students.
Twenty-one percent of the fifth-graders, and about 24 percent of the junior high school students said they feel anxious when their e-mails to friends go unanswered.
Nearly half of the junior high school students said they habitually exchange e-mails late at night, as did 7 percent of the fifth-graders.
Parents said their biggest worry is their children running up large phone bills. They are also concerned that e-mails may expose them to bullying or extortion, or that the Internet may lead them to harmful websites.
The PTA association says parents must take more responsibility in imposing proper rules because the survey shows that children are very dependent on mobile phones.
2010年5月11日火曜日
Japan to introduce own measures for tuna control
Japan will introduce its own set of measures for controlling the catch of Pacific bluefin tuna, in line with the global effort to protect tuna resources.
Japan accounts for more than 70 percent of the bluefin tuna catch in the Pacific.
The Fisheries Agency plans to draw up a resource recovery program by the end of March next year, and to hold fishermen and fish farmers liable starting in April.
Round haul netters will be asked to suspend activity during spawning season, and catch only tuna of a certain size. Trawlers will be obliged to report on the amount of tuna they caught, but could become eligible for income compensation.
The agency will oblige fish farmers to register their tuna hatcheries, and step up study of how bluefin tuna spawn and grow in the East China Sea.
Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species discussed a possible ban on bluefin trade at their meeting in Doha, Qatar, in March.
But the ban was voted down by Japan and scores of developing countries
Japan accounts for more than 70 percent of the bluefin tuna catch in the Pacific.
The Fisheries Agency plans to draw up a resource recovery program by the end of March next year, and to hold fishermen and fish farmers liable starting in April.
Round haul netters will be asked to suspend activity during spawning season, and catch only tuna of a certain size. Trawlers will be obliged to report on the amount of tuna they caught, but could become eligible for income compensation.
The agency will oblige fish farmers to register their tuna hatcheries, and step up study of how bluefin tuna spawn and grow in the East China Sea.
Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species discussed a possible ban on bluefin trade at their meeting in Doha, Qatar, in March.
But the ban was voted down by Japan and scores of developing countries
2010年5月10日月曜日
Japan's foot-and-mouth virus like one found in HK
Japan's Agriculture Ministry says the foot-and-mouth disease virus found in a farm animal in a southwestern prefecture was similar to one found in Hong Kong.
The ministry says the 2 viruses likely share a route of infection, but it is unclear if the virus found in Japan came directly from Hong Kong, or entered the country from a third location.
The ministry sent genetic information of the virus taken from a sick animal in Miyazaki Prefecture to a British laboratory for analysis. The ministry is comparing the genetic makeup of the virus found in Japan with those found in other parts of the world.
The study determined that the virus found in Japan shares 99.2 percent of its genetic materials with the virus found in Hong Kong, 98.6 percent with one found in South Korea, and 93 percent with the one in Myanmar.
The samples were taken from a pig infected with foot-and-mouth disease in Hong Kong in February, and from the first infected livestock found in Miyazaki Prefecture.
The number of cows and pigs in the prefecture thought to be infected has risen since the first suspected case was reported in April. The ministry continues to analyze the genetic information, while taking measures to prevent the virus from spreading further.
A part of the foot-and-mouth virus is known to change genetic sequence as the virus spreads. The ministry is focused on that part as it compares data
The ministry says the 2 viruses likely share a route of infection, but it is unclear if the virus found in Japan came directly from Hong Kong, or entered the country from a third location.
The ministry sent genetic information of the virus taken from a sick animal in Miyazaki Prefecture to a British laboratory for analysis. The ministry is comparing the genetic makeup of the virus found in Japan with those found in other parts of the world.
The study determined that the virus found in Japan shares 99.2 percent of its genetic materials with the virus found in Hong Kong, 98.6 percent with one found in South Korea, and 93 percent with the one in Myanmar.
The samples were taken from a pig infected with foot-and-mouth disease in Hong Kong in February, and from the first infected livestock found in Miyazaki Prefecture.
The number of cows and pigs in the prefecture thought to be infected has risen since the first suspected case was reported in April. The ministry continues to analyze the genetic information, while taking measures to prevent the virus from spreading further.
A part of the foot-and-mouth virus is known to change genetic sequence as the virus spreads. The ministry is focused on that part as it compares data
Tsukiji reopens tuna auction to tourists
Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market has lifted a month-long ban on visitors to its tuna auction, but will now limit the number to 140 per day.
The Tokyo Metropolitan government closed the tuna auction floor to sightseers on April 8th after the surging number of tourists, many of them foreign, disrupted transactions.
On Monday, people began lining up before 4 AM for the 140 available tickets. They were divided into 2 groups to watch the auction and no problems were reported.
One foreign tourist said the auction is interesting but that he enjoyed Tsukiji much more on a previous visit because he was allowed to walk around freely.
The Tokyo government gave each tourist a visitor's behavior guideline written in 5 languages.
A market official said he was relieved that there was no confusion during the resumed tour. He said he wants visitors to understand that the business of a wholesale food market must not be disrupted.
Tsukiji has drawn large numbers of foreign tourists because of the popularity of its tuna auctions. The ban followed disruptive behavior by visitors, including touching the fish, and taking flash photographs that caused auctioneers to lose sight of bids worth millions of yen.
The Tokyo Metropolitan government closed the tuna auction floor to sightseers on April 8th after the surging number of tourists, many of them foreign, disrupted transactions.
On Monday, people began lining up before 4 AM for the 140 available tickets. They were divided into 2 groups to watch the auction and no problems were reported.
One foreign tourist said the auction is interesting but that he enjoyed Tsukiji much more on a previous visit because he was allowed to walk around freely.
The Tokyo government gave each tourist a visitor's behavior guideline written in 5 languages.
A market official said he was relieved that there was no confusion during the resumed tour. He said he wants visitors to understand that the business of a wholesale food market must not be disrupted.
Tsukiji has drawn large numbers of foreign tourists because of the popularity of its tuna auctions. The ban followed disruptive behavior by visitors, including touching the fish, and taking flash photographs that caused auctioneers to lose sight of bids worth millions of yen.
2010年5月9日日曜日
Ancient murals open to public
Murals from an ancient burial mound dating back about 1,300 years have been shown to the public in Nara Prefecture.
The murals at the Takamatsuzuka burial mound were discovered in 1972 in Asuka Village. They were later designated a national treasury.
Three year ago, the murals were lifted from the stone chamber of the mound and moved to a nearby facility to undergo repairs.
On Saturday, the murals were put on public display for the 5th time. Visitors were able to observe the ancient paintings, including ones depicting a group of beautiful women, through glass windows.
Visitors were also allowed to have a close look at the mural showing a white tiger which has suffered damage since its discovery.
An official from the Agency for Cultural Affairs told the visitors about the damage.
One visitor said that he understands the damage was inevitable with the technology available in those days, but he hopes it will not spread further.
The agency says the murals will be on display through May 16th for those who have bookings. Those without bookings will be admitted from Monday to Friday.
The murals at the Takamatsuzuka burial mound were discovered in 1972 in Asuka Village. They were later designated a national treasury.
Three year ago, the murals were lifted from the stone chamber of the mound and moved to a nearby facility to undergo repairs.
On Saturday, the murals were put on public display for the 5th time. Visitors were able to observe the ancient paintings, including ones depicting a group of beautiful women, through glass windows.
Visitors were also allowed to have a close look at the mural showing a white tiger which has suffered damage since its discovery.
An official from the Agency for Cultural Affairs told the visitors about the damage.
One visitor said that he understands the damage was inevitable with the technology available in those days, but he hopes it will not spread further.
The agency says the murals will be on display through May 16th for those who have bookings. Those without bookings will be admitted from Monday to Friday.
Japanese have less desire for job success than US
A recent survey shows that the percentage of Japanese business employees desiring promotion in their jobs is just about half the figure in the United States.
A Tokyo-based non-profit organization, Global Enhancement of Women's Executive Leadership, conducted the survey on the Internet.
61 percent of Americans responding to the survey said they want to rise to a higher position in their jobs. 31 percent of Japanese respondents gave the same answer.
Asked if they are confident in their ability to do their work, 95 percent of Americans said "yes", while 46 percent of Japanese answered affirmatively.
A representative of the NPO expressed concern that Japanese firms would face a more difficult situation unless they employ people with various kinds of ability at a time when many companies worldwide are eager to recruit talented personnel.
The survey, which was conducted for 2 months from last December, sought the views of 4,000 people in Japan and the United States
A Tokyo-based non-profit organization, Global Enhancement of Women's Executive Leadership, conducted the survey on the Internet.
61 percent of Americans responding to the survey said they want to rise to a higher position in their jobs. 31 percent of Japanese respondents gave the same answer.
Asked if they are confident in their ability to do their work, 95 percent of Americans said "yes", while 46 percent of Japanese answered affirmatively.
A representative of the NPO expressed concern that Japanese firms would face a more difficult situation unless they employ people with various kinds of ability at a time when many companies worldwide are eager to recruit talented personnel.
The survey, which was conducted for 2 months from last December, sought the views of 4,000 people in Japan and the United States
2010年5月5日水曜日
Japan's child population declining for 29 years
May fifth is Children's Day in Japan. The country's child population has fallen for the 29th straight year to nearly 17-million.
A government estimate puts the number of children under 15 as of April 1st at 16.94-million. This is down 190,000 from a year ago.
There were 8.68-million boys and 8.26-million girls.
Children accounted for 13.3 percent of Japan's total population, another record low. This is down 0.1 points from a year ago and the 36th year-on-year decline.
By prefecture, Okinawa had the highest percentage of children at 17.7 percent, as of October. Akita had the lowest with 11.2 percent.
The percentage in Tokyo stood at 11.9 percent, up 0.1 points. It is the only prefecture with an increase in its child population.
A government estimate puts the number of children under 15 as of April 1st at 16.94-million. This is down 190,000 from a year ago.
There were 8.68-million boys and 8.26-million girls.
Children accounted for 13.3 percent of Japan's total population, another record low. This is down 0.1 points from a year ago and the 36th year-on-year decline.
By prefecture, Okinawa had the highest percentage of children at 17.7 percent, as of October. Akita had the lowest with 11.2 percent.
The percentage in Tokyo stood at 11.9 percent, up 0.1 points. It is the only prefecture with an increase in its child population.
2010年5月4日火曜日
Hatoyama visits Okinawa over US base relocation
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama has sought the Okinawa governor's understanding and cooperation for the government's plan to relocate a US marine base within the island prefecture.
Hatoyama on Tuesday made his first visit to Okinawa since taking office last year, hoping to resolve the stalemate over the US Marine Corps Futenma Air Station.
During the talks, Okinawa Governor Hirokazu Nakaima urged the prime minister to remove the danger posed by Futenma air station as soon as possible. The air station is located in the middle of a densely populated city.
The governor said that the people of Okinawa share a strong desire to have their base-hosting burden reduced. He urged the prime minister to work steadily to scale back and streamline US bases in the prefecture.
Hatoyama responded with an apology to the people of Okinawa, for the trouble they've endured over the relocation debate.
But the prime minister went on to say that it would be difficult realistically, to transfer ALL the functions of the Futenma base outside the prefecture.
He said that his government has studied the matter, and concluded that taking the base entirely out of Okinawa would be impossible -- from the viewpoint of maintaining the Japan-US alliance and its deterrence in the region.
The prime minister asked Okinawa to shoulder part of the burden under a package deal. He also said it was important to quickly close down Futenma to reduce its danger, and lessen Okinawa's burden by as much as possible.
The Hatoyama government is planning to transfer part of Futenma's operations to the island of Tokunoshima in Kagoshima Prefecture, about 200 kilometers north of Okinawa. The government also plans to modify the 2006 plan that Japan and the United States agreed upon and build a pile-supported runway in the shallow waters off US Camp Schwab in Okinawa.
Hatoyama has set a self-imposed deadline of the end of May to secure a concrete relocation plan.
Hatoyama on Tuesday made his first visit to Okinawa since taking office last year, hoping to resolve the stalemate over the US Marine Corps Futenma Air Station.
During the talks, Okinawa Governor Hirokazu Nakaima urged the prime minister to remove the danger posed by Futenma air station as soon as possible. The air station is located in the middle of a densely populated city.
The governor said that the people of Okinawa share a strong desire to have their base-hosting burden reduced. He urged the prime minister to work steadily to scale back and streamline US bases in the prefecture.
Hatoyama responded with an apology to the people of Okinawa, for the trouble they've endured over the relocation debate.
But the prime minister went on to say that it would be difficult realistically, to transfer ALL the functions of the Futenma base outside the prefecture.
He said that his government has studied the matter, and concluded that taking the base entirely out of Okinawa would be impossible -- from the viewpoint of maintaining the Japan-US alliance and its deterrence in the region.
The prime minister asked Okinawa to shoulder part of the burden under a package deal. He also said it was important to quickly close down Futenma to reduce its danger, and lessen Okinawa's burden by as much as possible.
The Hatoyama government is planning to transfer part of Futenma's operations to the island of Tokunoshima in Kagoshima Prefecture, about 200 kilometers north of Okinawa. The government also plans to modify the 2006 plan that Japan and the United States agreed upon and build a pile-supported runway in the shallow waters off US Camp Schwab in Okinawa.
Hatoyama has set a self-imposed deadline of the end of May to secure a concrete relocation plan.
2010年5月3日月曜日
Traditional bullfights held in Tokunoshima
About 3,000 people have enjoyed the annual traditional bullfights at a new ring on the southern island of Tokunoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
Traditional bullfights held in Tokunoshima
About 3,000 people have enjoyed the annual traditional bullfights at a new ring on the southern island of Tokunoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
Traditional bullfights held in Tokunoshima
About 3,000 people have enjoyed the annual traditional bullfights at a new ring on the southern island of Tokunoshima, Kagoshima Prefecture.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
The bullfights are put on during the holiday period from late April to early May. They are said to date back some 500 years.
Twenty bulls took part in Sunday's matches. Some used the top of their head to push the other bull into the wall of the ring, while others skillfully attacked the necks of their opponents.
Farmers once enjoyed bullfighting as a pastime, but nowadays the islanders train special bulls for the fights.
The rules say that a bull loses a fight when it gets demoralized and quits.
Many people cheered when the bulls clashed with each other. The smallest animal weighs 700 kilograms, while the largest ones weigh about one ton.
The excited crowd danced around the winning bulls.
Mayor Kosuke Ohisa said he wants the island to be able to continue the traditional bullfight culture for ever in the wonderful natural environment.
Japan's largest flea market opens
A gigantic flea market has opened at a convention center near Tokyo.
The market, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba City, is one of the largest of its kind in Japan, with about 1,300 shops run by individuals and companies on a 60,000-square-meter floor.
The shops at the crowded market sell used clothes, accessories, bags and other items.
Some specialize in baby and child goods; others, high-end, imported designer-brand products. Visitors compare items and bargain with the vendors.
One shopper says prices are reasonable. Another says recycling is good for reducing waste.
The organizer says the three-day event is expected to draw 200,000 visitors.
The market, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba City, is one of the largest of its kind in Japan, with about 1,300 shops run by individuals and companies on a 60,000-square-meter floor.
The shops at the crowded market sell used clothes, accessories, bags and other items.
Some specialize in baby and child goods; others, high-end, imported designer-brand products. Visitors compare items and bargain with the vendors.
One shopper says prices are reasonable. Another says recycling is good for reducing waste.
The organizer says the three-day event is expected to draw 200,000 visitors.
2010年5月1日土曜日
May Day rally held in Tokyo
Labor unions staged May Day rallies across Japan on Saturday, seeking more stable employment and enhanced social security.
The National Confederation of Trade Unions said about 32,000 people took part in its rally held at Tokyo's Yoyogi Park.
The confederation's chairman, Sakuji Daikoku, said that considering the fact that more than 17 million people are non-regular workers and about 50 percent of young employees work under such conditions, the future of working people doesn't look bright.
Daikoku called for a turnaround to a society where employment on regular worker status is the norm.
A declaration adopted at the rally demands wage increases for all workers, and ensuring employment and improved social security.
The Labor Ministry says more than 275,000 non-regular workers have lost their jobs since last October.
A participant in his 30s said many in his generation are hesitant to get married because of economic difficulties.
He urged the government to build a society where people can afford to get married and raise children if they work 8 hours a day.
The National Confederation of Trade Unions said about 32,000 people took part in its rally held at Tokyo's Yoyogi Park.
The confederation's chairman, Sakuji Daikoku, said that considering the fact that more than 17 million people are non-regular workers and about 50 percent of young employees work under such conditions, the future of working people doesn't look bright.
Daikoku called for a turnaround to a society where employment on regular worker status is the norm.
A declaration adopted at the rally demands wage increases for all workers, and ensuring employment and improved social security.
The Labor Ministry says more than 275,000 non-regular workers have lost their jobs since last October.
A participant in his 30s said many in his generation are hesitant to get married because of economic difficulties.
He urged the government to build a society where people can afford to get married and raise children if they work 8 hours a day.
Japan's largest ancient Ruins made public
Japan begins an extended spring holiday-week, from Thursday until next Wednesday.
In the western prefecture of Saga, excavation work on the nation's largest Yayoi-period ruins, dating back to 300 B.C., is being opened to the public for the week.
The Kamekan cemetery in the Yoshinogari ruins was built nearly 2100 years ago.
The site contains 4 ceramic coffins, 60 centimeters in diameter.
1500 such coffins are known to still stretch in a 600-meter line underneath the site.
On Friday, elementary school children visited the site as part of their social studies and listened to an explanation from prefectural officials. The children also observed delicate work to restore earthenware in a park museum.
Normally, excavation work is suspended on weekends and national holidays.
But park officials are making an exception during the spring holidays to accommodate visitors.
Excavation research will be open till Sunday and the restoration work, till Wednesday - the final day of the holidays.
In the western prefecture of Saga, excavation work on the nation's largest Yayoi-period ruins, dating back to 300 B.C., is being opened to the public for the week.
The Kamekan cemetery in the Yoshinogari ruins was built nearly 2100 years ago.
The site contains 4 ceramic coffins, 60 centimeters in diameter.
1500 such coffins are known to still stretch in a 600-meter line underneath the site.
On Friday, elementary school children visited the site as part of their social studies and listened to an explanation from prefectural officials. The children also observed delicate work to restore earthenware in a park museum.
Normally, excavation work is suspended on weekends and national holidays.
But park officials are making an exception during the spring holidays to accommodate visitors.
Excavation research will be open till Sunday and the restoration work, till Wednesday - the final day of the holidays.
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