Years Articles

Hundreds of Deer Found in Japan’s Southern Alps, Raising Concerns Over Damage to Mountain Ecosystem A large herd of Japanese deer has been discovered in a remote area of Japan’s Southern Alps, with the sighting raising concerns about the growing impact of the animals on the fragile mountain ecosystem. The herd was spotted during the summer on the border between Ina City and Oshika Village in Nagano Prefecture. Aerial photographs showed what appeared to be several hundred deer gathered across the slopes of Mount Niji, at an elevation of around 1,900 metres. The discovery has attracted attention because the animals were found at a relatively high altitude in an area that is difficult for people to reach. Officials and researchers are concerned that the expansion of deer into higher parts of the Southern Alps could have consequences extending well beyond damage to individual plants. A Herd of Hundreds Spotted From the Air The large concentration of deer was identified through aerial photography conducted in the Southern Alps. The animals were seen covering a section of the mountain slope, making the scale of the herd apparent from above. The herd was estimated to contain between 200 and 300 Japanese sika deer. The sighting took place on the northern slope of Mount Niji, a mountain rising to approximately 1,900 metres above sea level. The location is on the boundary between Ina City and Oshika Village in Nagano Prefecture. Its remote position makes the animals particularly difficult to manage because vehicles cannot easily reach the area. The discovery was significant not simply because of the number of deer visible at one location, but because it provided evidence that large numbers of the animals have established themselves in higher-altitude areas of the Southern Alps. Deer Numbers Have Increased Across Nagano The Southern Alps are already an area where Japanese deer have become a major wildlife-management concern. Deer numbers in Nagano Prefecture have increased substantially over the past decade, despite efforts to control the population. The estimated deer population in Nagano has grown by tens of thousands over that period. The animals have expanded their range into areas where their presence can affect forests, vegetation and alpine environments. Japanese sika deer are native to Japan, but problems can arise when their population becomes too large for the available vegetation and habitat to support without significant environmental effects. In the Southern Alps, the concern is particularly serious because high-altitude environments contain plants and vegetation that can be vulnerable to repeated grazing. The mountain ecosystem is also exposed to other pressures, including severe weather and changes in climate. Alpine Plants Face Increasing Pressure One of the principal concerns associated with the expanding deer population is damage to alpine plants. Deer feed on vegetation, and repeated grazing can reduce the amount and variety of plants growing in an area. The Southern Alps contain distinctive mountain vegetation that has adapted to the harsh conditions found at high elevations. Plants growing in these environments can have limited opportunities to recover when they are repeatedly eaten. The effect can become more pronounced when large numbers of deer repeatedly use the same areas. As vegetation is consumed, some plant species can become less abundant while areas of exposed soil become increasingly common. The problem is therefore not necessarily limited to the loss of individual plants. Changes in vegetation can alter the wider structure of a mountain ecosystem and affect other organisms that depend on that vegetation. Concerns Extend to the Mountain’s Ability to Hold Water Officials are also concerned about the potential effect of deer on the Southern Alps’ ability to retain water. When deer repeatedly feed on vegetation and damage young trees and other plants, the protective vegetation covering the ground can be reduced. Vegetation plays an important role in mountain environments. Plants and their roots help stabilise soil, slow the movement of water and contribute to the ability of slopes to retain moisture. When vegetation is removed or the ground is repeatedly disturbed by animals, more soil can become exposed. Heavy rainfall can then wash soil downslope more easily. This has raised concerns that the increase in deer could contribute to erosion and potentially increase the risk of landslides in vulnerable areas. Research published in 2026 by scientists working in the northern part of the Southern Alps has also examined the relationship between deer activity and soil erosion. The study area in Nagano is a high-density deer region, and the researchers found that disturbance by deer can play an important role in mountain soil erosion. A Difficult Place to Control the Deer One of the biggest problems facing authorities is the difficulty of reaching the area where the large herd was discovered. The mountainous terrain means that vehicles cannot simply be driven into the area. This makes conventional methods of capturing or controlling deer considerably more difficult than they would be in areas closer to roads and settlements. The animals are also able to move through steep and rugged terrain that can be difficult and potentially dangerous for people to access. The result is a difficult wildlife-management problem. Authorities can identify areas where deer numbers are high, but reaching the animals and reducing their numbers can require considerable resources and specialist knowledge. The remote location of the herd on Mount Niji therefore adds another layer of difficulty to efforts to manage the growing deer population in Nagano. The Southern Alps Are an Important Natural Environment Japan’s Southern Alps form one of the country’s major mountain ranges and contain extensive forests, alpine environments and high-elevation habitats. The area is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Its high mountains create different environments at different elevations, ranging from forests at lower levels to alpine vegetation closer to the highest peaks. Changes to one part of that environment can therefore have consequences elsewhere. When grazing pressure increases, vegetation can change, which can then influence soil conditions and the availability of food and shelter for other species. Conservation officials are consequently

Japan Weather Agency Warns of Disasters as Typhoon Dujuan Heads Toward Tokyo Japan’s weather agency warned residents across wide areas of the country to prepare for potentially dangerous weather as Typhoon Dujuan moved toward eastern Japan, with the storm expected to approach the Tokyo region during the country’s five-day holiday period. The Japan Meteorological Agency, or JMA, urged people to remain alert for landslides, flooding and other rain-related disasters as the large typhoon moved northward over the Pacific. The storm was expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of eastern and central Japan. The warning was particularly significant for the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo, as well as the Izu Islands, the Tokai region and parts of the Pacific coast of Tohoku. Forecasters warned that rainfall could begin increasing before the centre of the typhoon reached its closest point to the Japanese mainland. Typhoon Dujuan Moves Toward Eastern Japan Typhoon Dujuan was the 25th typhoon of the year and had been moving northward after approaching Japan’s Ogasawara island chain. By the weekend, the storm was positioned south of Japan and was expected to continue moving toward the Kanto region. The JMA said Dujuan could approach the Izu Islands and the Kanto region between Monday afternoon and early Tuesday morning before moving away toward the Pacific waters east of the Tohoku region. At the time of the warning, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 35 metres per second and maximum gusts of up to 50 metres per second. Its central atmospheric pressure was 970 hectopascals as it moved northward over waters south of the Tokai region. The forecast track meant that the storm did not necessarily have to pass directly over Tokyo to create dangerous conditions in the capital and surrounding areas. Heavy rain, strong winds and coastal conditions can affect a much wider area than the centre of a typhoon. Heavy Rain Could Begin Before the Typhoon Arrives One of the concerns highlighted by Japanese forecasters was that rainfall could begin increasing before the main part of the storm arrived. Thick clouds to the north of Dujuan were expected to produce rain ahead of the typhoon itself. JMA forecaster Yoshikazu Yano warned that this could increase cumulative rainfall totals. That is important because the danger from a typhoon is not determined solely by the strongest winds or the point where the storm makes its closest approach. Rain falling over several hours can saturate the ground and increase the risk of landslides, while heavy rainfall can cause rivers to rise and flooding to occur in low-lying areas. The agency therefore urged people to pay attention to weather information before the typhoon reached its closest point to Japan rather than waiting until conditions had already deteriorated. Landslides and Flooding Among Main Concerns The JMA warned that landslides and flooding could become serious problems as the storm approached. The risk was particularly relevant in areas where heavy rain had already fallen or where additional rainfall could quickly overwhelm drainage systems and rivers. Japan’s mountainous terrain makes landslides a recurring danger during periods of exceptionally heavy rainfall. When the ground becomes saturated, slopes can become unstable, potentially sending mud, rocks and other debris downhill. Flooding can also occur rapidly in urban areas when rainfall exceeds the capacity of drainage systems. Low-lying locations and areas near rivers can be especially vulnerable when large amounts of rain fall over a short period. The combination of heavy rain and strong winds also creates the potential for wider disruption. Fallen trees, damaged infrastructure and flooding can affect roads and railways even when a typhoon does not make a direct landfall in a particular city. Tokyo and the Kanto Region on Alert Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto region were among the areas being closely monitored because of the storm’s expected path. The Kanto region contains one of the world’s largest metropolitan populations, meaning that severe weather can have consequences for millions of people and for a huge transport network. The weather agency warned that public transportation could be disrupted as the typhoon approached. Heavy rain and strong winds can lead railway operators to reduce services, suspend operations or cancel trains when conditions become unsafe. Road travel can also be affected by flooding, fallen trees and strong winds. Highways and other major roads may be closed temporarily when authorities determine that conditions pose a danger to drivers. For people travelling through Tokyo and neighbouring prefectures, the storm therefore presented a risk of delays and cancellations even if the typhoon’s centre remained offshore. Five-Day Holiday Adds to Transport Concerns The timing of Typhoon Dujuan was another concern because the storm was approaching during a five-day holiday period in Japan. The holiday, extending through Wednesday, was expected to bring increased travel as people took trips or returned to their hometowns. The JMA advised people with leisure plans or journeys during the holiday to remain flexible and consider changing their plans depending on the weather situation. The warning reflected the possibility that transportation disruptions could make journeys more difficult even outside the areas directly affected by the strongest weather. When a major storm approaches Japan, disruption can spread through the national transport network. A railway closure in one region can affect trains travelling much farther away, while airport and highway disruptions can create additional delays for travellers. For visitors travelling around Japan during the holiday, checking railway, airline and local government information was therefore particularly important as the typhoon approached. Strong Winds and High Waves Expected Heavy rain was not the only threat associated with Dujuan. The JMA also warned of strong winds and high waves along affected coastal areas. The storm’s maximum gusts were forecast to reach 50 metres per second at the time of the weekend warning. Such winds can make outdoor conditions dangerous and can cause damage to structures, trees and other objects. Coastal areas faced additional risks from high waves and rough seas. The agency specifically urged caution in the Izu Islands and along

Shizuoka to Require Climbers to Submit Plans for Off-Season Mount Fuji Climbs Shizuoka Prefecture is preparing new measures for people who attempt to climb Mount Fuji outside the official climbing season, including a requirement to submit a climbing plan before starting their ascent. The new system is expected to begin in autumn 2027 and is intended to reduce accidents involving climbers who venture onto Japan’s highest mountain when conditions are considerably more difficult than during the summer climbing season. The prefecture is also considering measures that could make some off-season climbers responsible for the cost of rescue operations, as authorities on both sides of Mount Fuji respond to an increase in poorly prepared climbers becoming stranded on the mountain. New Rules Planned for Off-Season Climbers Shizuoka Governor Yasutomo Suzuki announced the plans on September 18 during a prefectural assembly session. Under the proposed system, people intending to climb Mount Fuji during the closed season would have to submit details of their planned ascent in advance. The requirement is being introduced as authorities seek to obtain more information about who is attempting off-season climbs and whether they have made appropriate preparations for the conditions they are likely to encounter. The prefecture has not yet provided all of the details of how the notification system will operate. Further consideration will be required before the new rules take effect in autumn 2027. Officials are also examining how the information submitted by climbers could be used to improve safety and coordinate responses when people encounter difficulties on the mountain. Mount Fuji’s Official Climbing Season Has Ended Mount Fuji’s official climbing season runs during the summer, when the main trails and facilities are available to climbers. On the Shizuoka side, the official season ended on September 10 this year. Outside the official season, conditions on the 3,776-metre mountain can become much more severe. Temperatures can fall sharply, snow and ice can make trails hazardous, and strong winds can create dangerous conditions near the summit. Mountain huts and other facilities that support climbers during the summer are also generally closed during the off-season. First-aid facilities are unavailable, while toilets on the mountain cannot be relied upon. The official Mount Fuji climbing website therefore strongly discourages climbing outside the regular season. Its guidelines state that people attempting an off-season ascent must be fully prepared for the conditions and submit a mountain climbing plan. Authorities Concerned About Unprepared Climbers The new Shizuoka measures come after a series of incidents involving people who attempted to climb Mount Fuji outside the official season and subsequently needed assistance. Some off-season climbers have become stranded after encountering difficult weather or trail conditions. Rescue operations can be particularly challenging during the winter months because of the mountain environment and the risks faced by rescue personnel themselves. The authorities’ concern is not simply the number of people attempting to climb the mountain. It is also whether those climbers have the equipment, experience and preparation necessary to deal with conditions at high altitude. The official Mount Fuji guidance makes a distinction between properly prepared mountaineers and casual hikers. People who are not adequately equipped or experienced are strongly advised not to climb above the fifth station outside the official season. Climbing Plans Are Already Part of Fuji Guidance The idea of requiring an off-season climbing plan is not entirely new. Mount Fuji’s existing safety guidelines already call on climbers attempting an ascent outside the summer season to create and submit a mountain climbing plan. Those guidelines are intended to help reduce accidents and ensure that people understand the additional responsibilities involved in attempting an off-season climb. Fully prepared climbers are also expected to carry their own portable toilets because the mountain’s regular toilet facilities are unavailable outside the climbing season. They must take their waste back down the mountain with them. The proposed Shizuoka system would give these requirements a more formal administrative framework, with climbers expected to notify authorities before undertaking their ascent. Yamanashi Is Introducing Similar Measures Shizuoka is not the only prefecture tightening its approach to off-season Mount Fuji climbing. The mountain straddles both Shizuoka and neighbouring Yamanashi Prefecture, and authorities on the two sides have been discussing measures to reduce accidents. Yamanashi announced earlier in September that it plans to charge some climbers for helicopter rescue operations during the off-season. The system is expected to begin in autumn 2027. Yamanashi is also introducing a system requiring people to submit notifications before climbing to higher parts of the mountain during the closed season. Under the planned approach, climbers who submit the required information and demonstrate that they have taken appropriate safety precautions could have rescue charges reduced or waived if they later require assistance. The precise cost of Yamanashi’s helicopter rescue operations has not yet been established. Officials have indicated that the system in neighbouring Saitama Prefecture, where mountain rescue helicopter operations can cost about 8,000 yen for every five minutes, could serve as a reference. Shizuoka Is Also Considering Rescue Charges Shizuoka has not yet decided whether to introduce a similar system for charging climbers who require helicopter rescue during the off-season. Governor Suzuki said the prefecture would consider measures including charging hikers for operations involving disaster-prevention helicopters. The issue will be examined alongside the new climbing-plan requirement and other safety measures. The prefecture is also expected to coordinate with Yamanashi and other organisations because the two prefectures share responsibility for managing Mount Fuji and dealing with the problems created by off-season climbing. Any rescue-charge system would have to take account of the circumstances surrounding an incident, including whether a climber had followed the required procedures and taken appropriate precautions before setting out. Why Off-Season Mount Fuji Climbing Is Dangerous Mount Fuji’s appearance can make an ascent seem relatively straightforward during periods of good weather, but conditions outside the official season are very different from those experienced during summer. The upper slopes can be covered with snow and ice, while strong winds can make movement extremely difficult. Weather can also

Travelers Crowd Airports and Stations as Japan’s Five-Day Silver Week Holiday Begins Airports and major railway stations across Japan were crowded on Saturday as millions of people began travelling for the country’s Silver Week holiday period, which this year provides five consecutive days off for the first time in 11 years. The five-day holiday runs from September 19 through September 23, combining the weekend with three national holidays. The unusually long break has prompted large numbers of people to travel for holidays, family visits and trips to events taking place around the country. Crowds were visible at major transport hubs from the beginning of the holiday period, with passengers carrying luggage filling airport terminals and railway stations as they headed away from Japan’s largest cities. Five Consecutive Days Off Draw Travelers Across Japan Silver Week is created when several holidays in September fall close enough together to produce a longer break. In 2026, September 21 is Respect for the Aged Day and September 23 is the Autumnal Equinox Day, while September 22 becomes a holiday between the two dates under Japan’s holiday system. Combined with the weekend of September 19 and 20, the arrangement produces five consecutive days without a normal working day for many people. The 2026 holiday period is particularly notable because the country has not had a five-day Silver Week stretch since 2015. The prospect of five consecutive days off encouraged many people to make longer domestic trips than would normally be possible during a standard weekend. Travel demand was therefore concentrated around major transport hubs as people left cities such as Tokyo and Osaka for destinations around the country. Airports Fill With Holiday Travelers Airports were among the busiest locations at the beginning of the holiday period. Passengers arrived with suitcases and other luggage as domestic and international travel increased. Tokyo’s Haneda Airport was among the major airports experiencing heavy passenger traffic. The airport serves a large number of domestic routes, making it one of the principal departure points for people travelling to other parts of Japan during national holidays. Narita Airport was also expected to experience increased demand as people travelled internationally during the extended break. The combination of domestic holiday travel and international trips contributed to higher passenger numbers across the country’s main aviation hubs. Airlines had been preparing for the increased demand, with bookings concentrated around the beginning and end of the five-day period. Travelers were advised to allow additional time at airports because of the expected crowds. Railway Stations Also Packed Major railway stations were similarly busy as travelers began journeys by train. Tokyo Station, one of the country’s most important long-distance rail hubs, was crowded with passengers heading towards destinations across Japan. The Tokaido Shinkansen connecting Tokyo with Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka was expected to be particularly busy because it provides one of the country’s main high-speed links between eastern and western Japan. Other Shinkansen routes were also experiencing strong demand as people travelled north, west and south from Tokyo. The extended holiday encouraged many passengers to make longer journeys that would normally require taking additional days away from work. The scale of demand meant that travelers using the bullet trains were encouraged to make reservations in advance rather than relying on finding an available seat at the station. Nozomi Trains Operating With Reserved Seats Only One of the measures introduced for the holiday period was the temporary use of reserved seating on all Nozomi services on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen routes. The arrangement applied from September 18 through September 23, covering the period around the five-day holiday. Passengers travelling on Nozomi services therefore needed to have a reserved seat rather than relying on the non-reserved cars normally available on these trains. The measure was intended to help manage the exceptionally high demand expected during Silver Week. Nozomi trains provide the fastest regular services between Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka and are heavily used during major holiday periods. Passengers without reservations could therefore not simply arrive at the station and board a non-reserved Nozomi car as they might on a normal day. First Day Expected to Be Particularly Busy September 19, the first day of the five-day holiday, was expected to see particularly heavy outbound travel as people left major cities for destinations across Japan. The concentration of travel was a direct consequence of the unusual length of the holiday. Because many people had five consecutive days available, there was greater scope for taking longer trips rather than simply making short weekend journeys. Travelers heading away from Tokyo were expected to contribute to congestion on Shinkansen services and major roads, while airports faced increased demand from passengers taking domestic and overseas trips. The return journey was expected to produce another major peak towards the end of the holiday, particularly on September 22 and 23 as people prepared to return to work and school. Highways Also Expected to Be Congested The holiday rush was not limited to railways and airports. Japan’s expressway operators were also warning motorists about substantial traffic congestion during the five-day period. NEXCO companies forecast 279 instances of traffic congestion exceeding 10 kilometres nationwide between September 19 and September 23. In the Tokyo metropolitan area, outbound traffic was expected to reach its peak around September 20, while inbound traffic was forecast to be heaviest on September 21 and 22. The forecasts reflected the tendency for people travelling by car to leave major urban areas at the beginning of a long holiday and return shortly before the break ends. Motorists were therefore encouraged to check traffic forecasts before setting out and consider travelling outside the busiest periods where possible. No Highway Holiday Discounts During Silver Week Another consideration for motorists was the absence of the usual highway holiday discounts during the Silver Week period. The discounts were not being applied during the five-day holiday in an effort to prevent additional demand from contributing to already expected congestion. People planning to drive were therefore advised to take the toll

Tokyo Considers Metropolitan Littering Ban as Trash Problems Increase in Popular Areas Tokyo is considering introducing a metropolitan-wide ordinance to tackle growing problems with litter in busy entertainment districts and tourist areas, as the Japanese capital deals with increasing amounts of rubbish left in public spaces. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has begun examining whether stronger rules, including an ordinance banning littering and possible administrative fines, are needed to address the problem. The move comes as large numbers of domestic and international visitors continue to use Tokyo’s entertainment districts, shopping areas, tourist destinations and public spaces. The issue has become particularly visible in areas such as Shinjuku and Shibuya, where large crowds regularly gather around restaurants, bars, shops, railway stations and other attractions. Tokyo officials are also concerned about rubbish left after outdoor activities, including barbecues along riverbanks. Tokyo Begins Examining Stronger Litter Controls Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike said the metropolitan government would work with experts to consider effective measures for maintaining a clean and comfortable urban environment. The subject was raised during her policy speech at the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly in September. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government had already asked its Waste Management Council to examine stronger measures against scattered rubbish. The council began considering the issue in August, with the possibility of legislation included among the measures under examination. The metropolitan government has not yet decided what a new ordinance would contain. Officials say the details will depend on discussions by the waste management experts and on opinions from residents, municipalities and businesses. That means Tokyo has not yet introduced a new metropolitan-wide littering ban. Instead, the current process is focused on determining whether additional rules are necessary and, if so, how they should operate. Existing Rules Differ Between Tokyo’s Wards One reason for considering a metropolitan approach is that littering rules already differ between Tokyo’s individual municipalities and wards. Some areas have introduced their own regulations and penalties, while others have different approaches to enforcement and prevention. Tokyo officials say these differences can create difficulties when dealing with visitors who move between different parts of the capital. A metropolitan framework could establish common messages and rules while allowing individual wards and municipalities to continue dealing with local conditions. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government says there are also limits to what individual municipalities can achieve when dealing with large numbers of visitors concentrated in particular locations. A wider metropolitan policy could therefore provide additional support in areas where tourism creates unusually high volumes of waste. Shibuya Has Already Introduced an Administrative Fine Shibuya Ward provides one example of how Tokyo’s local authorities are already changing their approach. In June, the ward revised its littering ordinance and changed the penalty from a criminal fine requiring legal procedures to an administrative fine of 2,000 yen. The administrative system is intended to make enforcement easier. According to information reported after the revision, 963 cases had resulted in administrative fines by the end of August. Shibuya has also introduced additional responsibilities for some businesses. Operators of vending machines and certain food and beverage businesses are required to provide collection containers or rubbish bins for plastic bottles and other waste, with penalties applying to violations of the requirements. The experience in Shibuya is one of the examples being considered as Tokyo looks at whether measures should be introduced at the metropolitan level rather than relying entirely on individual wards. Shinjuku Is Also Expanding Its Littering Rules Shinjuku Ward is preparing another change to its local regulations. From October, the ward will expand the types of rubbish covered by its littering rules to include food containers and disposable wooden chopsticks. The existing rules already cover items including bottles, cigarette butts, chewing gum and paper scraps. The expansion reflects concerns about the types of waste increasingly found in busy entertainment and tourist areas. Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s busiest districts, with major entertainment areas attracting residents, commuters and visitors throughout the day and night. The large volume of people using the district creates a continuing challenge for waste collection and street cleaning. Rather than relying only on cleaning crews to remove rubbish after it has been discarded, local authorities are increasingly looking at measures intended to prevent litter from being left in the first place. Tourism Has Increased Pressure on Popular Areas The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has linked the recent litter problem partly to changes in visitor behaviour and the increase in tourists following the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials say some busy commercial and tourist locations have experienced increasing amounts of scattered rubbish. The problem is not limited to international tourists. Tokyo’s official information on scattered rubbish refers more broadly to changes in behaviour, visitors who may not be familiar with local rules and problems occurring in areas where large numbers of people gather. The metropolitan government says some parts of Tokyo’s entertainment districts have seen an upward trend in scattered rubbish. Similar problems have also been reported in tourist locations and in western Tokyo, where rubbish from barbecues has been left along riverbanks. The challenge is therefore broader than simply dealing with rubbish dropped on busy shopping streets. Officials are considering how waste should be managed in different environments and whether particular locations should be designated as priority areas for additional measures. Tokyo Is Also Looking at More Public Rubbish Bins The proposed ordinance is only one part of Tokyo’s wider response. The metropolitan government is also promoting the installation of recycling stations and higher-capacity rubbish bins in locations where large numbers of people pass through. Tokyo has launched the TOKYO Clean Up Action initiative, which brings together municipalities, businesses, organisations and other groups. One of its objectives is to improve the cleanliness of public areas while encouraging people to take their rubbish home when appropriate. The metropolitan government is providing financial support for recycling stations at transport hubs and public facilities. The programme can support equipment and operating costs, including high-function rubbish bins sometimes described as smart bins. Transport hubs such as major railway stations, airports

10 Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet in Japan Getting a pet in Japan can be a rewarding experience, but it is also a serious long-term commitment. Whether you are considering a dog, cat or another companion animal, there are practical issues to think about before bringing one home. Housing rules, the size of Japanese apartments, veterinary costs, registration requirements and what happens when you travel can all affect your decision. If you are living in Japan and thinking about becoming a pet owner, taking some time to consider the following ten points can help you decide whether you are ready for the responsibility. 1. Think About Whether a Pet Fits Your Life The first question is not which pet you want, but whether having a pet is right for your current circumstances. Dogs and cats can live with their owners for many years, so getting one is a commitment that needs to fit your plans rather than simply your current situation. If you are unsure how long you will remain in Japan, consider what would happen if you eventually moved abroad. Taking an animal overseas involves preparation, paperwork and expense, so it is worth thinking about this before you become a pet owner. You should also consider the time involved in feeding, cleaning, exercise, grooming and veterinary appointments. If loneliness is the main reason you are considering an animal, alternatives such as volunteering with an animal welfare organisation or visiting responsible animal cafés may allow you to spend time with animals without taking on a long-term commitment. 2. Adoption or Buying From a Pet Shop? Japan has many pet shops, but buying an animal is not the only option. Adoption organisations and animal shelters across the country work to find homes for cats, dogs and other animals that have been abandoned, rescued or surrendered. Organisations such as Japan Cat Network, Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK) and Heart Tokushima are among the groups that have worked with animals needing new homes. Local animal welfare organisations and veterinary clinics can also be useful places to ask about animals available for adoption. If you are considering buying from a pet shop or breeder, take the time to investigate how the animals are housed and cared for. Responsible sourcing matters regardless of where you obtain your pet, and prospective owners should avoid supporting businesses where animal welfare appears to be neglected. 3. Make Sure Your Apartment Allows Pets Finding suitable accommodation can be one of the biggest challenges for pet owners in Japan. Many rental properties have strict no-pet rules, while properties that permit animals may impose additional conditions. Pet-friendly properties are often described as “petto ok” in Japanese rental listings. Depending on the property, allowing a pet may mean paying additional deposits, fees or rent. There may also be restrictions concerning the number of animals, their size or the type of pet permitted. Never assume that a landlord will overlook an unauthorised animal. Keeping a pet against the terms of your rental agreement can create serious problems and could potentially put your tenancy at risk. Check the rules before bringing an animal home. 4. Consider How Much Space You Have Space is another important consideration, particularly if you live in one of Japan’s larger cities. Apartments can be considerably smaller than homes in some other countries, meaning there may not be much room for a large animal to move around comfortably. Think about the space your pet will actually have access to rather than simply the size of the apartment. A dog may need room to move as well as regular outdoor exercise, while cats need somewhere comfortable to sleep, play and use their litter box. Before choosing a pet, look honestly at your home and consider whether both you and the animal will be comfortable there. The smallest or cheapest apartment is not necessarily the most suitable place for every type of pet. 5. Don’t Underestimate Noise Problems Noise can become a significant issue when living with an animal in an apartment building. Japanese housing can involve close neighbours and relatively thin walls, making repeated barking, scratching or other loud noises more noticeable to people living nearby. Dogs in particular may create problems if they bark frequently when left alone. Before getting a pet, think about your working hours and whether the animal could become distressed or noisy while you are away. Cats can sometimes be easier to accommodate in an apartment because they generally do not require the same amount of outdoor exercise as dogs. However, every animal has its own personality and needs, so there is no universal solution. 6. Budget for Veterinary Treatment and Insurance Veterinary care needs to be included in your pet budget from the beginning. Routine examinations, vaccinations, medication and emergency treatment can all add to the cost of keeping an animal. Pet insurance is available in Japan and can help with some eligible veterinary expenses, although policies differ considerably. Some plans have limits, exclusions, deductibles or conditions concerning age and pre-existing illnesses, so read the policy carefully before buying it. It is also worth finding a veterinary clinic before you actually need one. Having a local clinic you trust can make dealing with illness or an emergency considerably less stressful. If your Japanese is limited, finding a clinic where communication is possible in a language you understand may also be important. 7. Understand Registration and Microchipping Requirements Dog ownership in Japan comes with legal requirements that owners need to understand. Dogs must be registered with the appropriate local authority, and owners are also required to comply with Japan’s rabies vaccination rules. Dog registration is generally handled through the relevant municipal or ward authority. Owners receive identification associated with the registration, while annual rabies vaccination is also required under Japanese law. Microchipping is another important part of pet identification. Japan has requirements concerning microchips in dogs and cats sold by breeders and pet shops, while owners should also understand the procedures that apply when

Boat Towed by North Korean Cargo Ship Sinks off Japan, Leaving One Person Missing A small boat carrying four people sank off Japan’s northwestern coast on September 17 after it was being towed by a North Korean cargo ship, leaving one person missing and another presumed dead, according to the Japan Coast Guard. The incident occurred in waters inside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, about 104 kilometers southwest of Nishinoshima, one of the Oki Islands. Japanese authorities launched a search and rescue operation after being notified that four people had fallen into the water. Three of the four people were subsequently recovered from the sea. Two were conscious when rescued, while the third was found without vital signs and was presumed dead. The fourth person remained missing as authorities continued investigating the incident. Boat Sank While Being Towed The Japan Coast Guard said the small boat was being towed by the North Korean-flagged cargo ship Kum Ya when the accident happened. The circumstances surrounding the sinking were not immediately clear. North Korea’s Rescue Coordination Center notified the Japan Coast Guard’s regional headquarters in Kyoto after the incident. The notification reported that four people had fallen overboard in the waters off the coast of western Japan. Japanese authorities responded by sending patrol vessels and aircraft to the area. The search operation was conducted in waters approximately 104 kilometers southwest of Nishinoshima, within Japan’s exclusive economic zone. The location meant that the Japan Coast Guard was responsible for coordinating the search and rescue response even though the incident involved a North Korean vessel. Three People Recovered From the Sea The search operation succeeded in locating three of the four people who had gone into the water. Two were recovered at around 12:15 p.m., several hours after the initial incident. A third person was recovered at approximately 1:10 p.m. The Japan Coast Guard said two of the rescued people were conscious, while the third was in cardiopulmonary arrest and was presumed dead. Despite the search operation, no trace of the fourth person was immediately found. Japanese authorities continued searching the surrounding waters for the missing individual. The rescue operation involved both patrol vessels and aircraft, allowing the coast guard to search a wider area of ocean around the location where the four people had entered the water. Nationalities Were Still Being Investigated Japanese authorities said they were investigating the nationalities of the four people involved in the incident. At the time of the initial reports, officials had not confirmed that all four were North Korean nationals. The coast guard was also investigating whether the sunken boat was directly connected to the North Korean cargo ship Kum Ya. Although the boat was being towed by the cargo vessel, officials were examining its precise relationship with the ship. Authorities were also trying to establish what the small boat had been doing in the area and why it was being towed there. Those questions remained under investigation after the three survivors were recovered. Officials therefore did not immediately provide a detailed explanation of what caused the boat to sink. The Incident Happened Inside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone The accident took place inside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, or EEZ, off the northwestern coast. The area lies near the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture. An EEZ extends beyond a country’s territorial waters and gives the coastal state specific rights relating to natural resources and certain maritime activities. It does not mean that the waters are the same as territorial waters, but Japan has important jurisdictional responsibilities in the area. Because the incident occurred within Japan’s EEZ and involved people in the water, the Japan Coast Guard responded to the emergency and deployed its search and rescue resources. The location also brought a North Korean vessel into the focus of Japanese maritime authorities, although the available reports did not indicate that the incident itself was related to any wider confrontation between the two countries. South Korea Also Joined the Search Effort South Korean authorities also mobilised resources to assist with the search and rescue operation. Two Korea Coast Guard patrol vessels and an aircraft were deployed, along with a South Korean Navy vessel and a fisheries patrol vessel. The Korea Coast Guard requested search and rescue cooperation through the relevant maritime coordination centres. The involvement of South Korean authorities added further resources to the operation as crews searched for the missing person. The response demonstrated how maritime emergencies can lead to cooperation between regional authorities even when the countries involved have complicated political relationships. The immediate objective of the search operation was to locate people who had fallen into the sea and provide medical assistance to those recovered, rather than determine the wider circumstances surrounding the North Korean vessel. The Kum Ya Cargo Ship The vessel involved in the incident was identified as the North Korean-flagged general cargo ship Kum Ya. Maritime information shows that the ship is approximately 97 meters long and has a gross tonnage of about 5,519 tonnes. The ship was built in 1991 and previously operated under the name Lucky Star 7. It transferred to the North Korean flag in 2016. The Kum Ya has also appeared in previous international reporting concerning North Korean maritime trade. A United Nations Panel of Experts report documented the vessel in connection with shipments of North Korean-origin coal to Chinese waters in 2021. That history is separate from the circumstances of the September 2026 accident. Japanese authorities were investigating the sinking itself, including the purpose of the smaller boat and its relationship with the Kum Ya. Investigation Into the Sunken Boat The Japan Coast Guard had not immediately established why the boat sank. Officials were investigating the circumstances of the towing operation as well as the activities of the small vessel before the accident. Determining the cause of the sinking could depend on information from the surviving crew members, the North Korean cargo ship and other available evidence from the scene. Authorities were also working to establish the identities

Taiwan Hands Japan More Than ¥1.4 Billion in Public Donations for Kumamoto Earthquake Recovery Taiwan has handed Japan more than NT$300 million, equivalent to about ¥1.4 billion or US$9.4 million, in donations raised from the public to support recovery and reconstruction efforts following a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung presented the funds to Kazuyuki Katayama, head of the Taipei Office of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, during a ceremony at Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Taipei on September 17. The money was raised following the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto on July 28, killing 38 people and damaging nearly 43,000 homes. The donations are intended to help communities affected by the disaster with recovery and reconstruction. More Than ¥1.4 Billion Raised Within a Month Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry commissioned the International Cooperation and Development Fund, known as TaiwanICDF, to establish and administer a public donation account on August 1. It was the first time Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry had asked the organization to manage a public disaster-relief fundraising campaign. The response from the Taiwanese public was substantial. More than NT$300 million was collected within approximately one month, with the entire amount designated for recovery and reconstruction work in the areas affected by the earthquake. The funds were formally handed over during the September 17 ceremony, marking the completion of the public fundraising campaign and the transfer of the money for use in Japan’s earthquake recovery efforts. The scale of the fundraising response reflects the attention the disaster received in Taiwan, where people have previously organised donations and assistance for major disasters in Japan and other parts of the region. Kumamoto Earthquake Killed 38 People The earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southwestern Japan on July 28. The magnitude 7.1 tremor caused extensive damage across affected communities and left tens of thousands of homes damaged. A total of 38 people were killed in the disaster, while damage was recorded at nearly 43,000 homes. The scale of the damage created a substantial need for assistance as local communities moved from immediate emergency response toward longer-term recovery and reconstruction. For residents whose homes and communities were damaged, reconstruction can involve considerably more than the initial emergency response. Restoring buildings, infrastructure and local facilities can continue long after the earthquake itself has passed. The Taiwanese donations are therefore being provided specifically for recovery and reconstruction rather than being limited to the immediate emergency response that followed the earthquake. Taiwan’s Government Also Contributed The public fundraising campaign was separate from an earlier contribution made directly by the Taiwanese government. Taiwan’s government donated NT$5 million for disaster relief. Senior Taiwanese officials also made personal donations. President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Premier Cho Jung-tai each donated NT$200,000 in their personal capacities. The government contribution and personal donations were made alongside the much larger public fundraising campaign. Businesses, civic organisations and Taiwanese communities overseas also contributed to the overall response. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister thanked those organisations and individuals who participated, saying the response demonstrated the close relationship between Taiwan and Japan. TSMC Pledges Additional Reconstruction Support The support for Kumamoto has also come from the business community. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., or TSMC, separately pledged ¥250 million for reconstruction in the prefecture. TSMC has a significant connection with Kumamoto because it operates a semiconductor plant in Kikuyo, a town in the prefecture. The company and members of its supply chain have established operations in the area, bringing Taiwanese employees and other workers to Kumamoto. Lin referred to this connection when explaining why the earthquake had particular significance for Taiwan. The growing presence of Taiwanese businesses and workers in Kumamoto has created closer links between the prefecture and Taiwan. The earthquake therefore affected a Japanese region that has become increasingly connected with Taiwan through investment, manufacturing and the movement of people between the two sides. Taiwan and Japan Have Helped Each Other After Disasters Taiwan’s foreign minister also highlighted the history of disaster assistance between Taiwan and Japan. Both sides have experienced major earthquakes and other natural disasters and have repeatedly provided assistance to each other. Lin referred to Taiwan’s 1999 Jiji earthquake, also known as the 921 earthquake, and Japan’s 2011 Tohoku earthquake as examples of major disasters during which assistance was provided between the two sides. He also mentioned the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes in Japan and the 2025 Hualien earthquake in Taiwan, pointing to the repeated occasions on which the two sides have responded to each other’s disasters. The latest fundraising campaign follows that pattern of assistance. Taiwan’s government and public have now provided support to communities in Kumamoto following the July 2026 earthquake. Lin said Taiwan and Japan should continue strengthening cooperation in disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, emergency relief and post-disaster reconstruction. Kumamoto Officials Thank Taiwanese Donors Kazuyuki Katayama, who heads the Taipei Office of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, accepted the donations on behalf of Japan and thanked Taiwan’s government and people for their support. Katayama said the speed and scale of the response demonstrated the close relationship between Taiwan and Japan. The donations were raised relatively quickly after the disaster and came from a broad section of the Taiwanese public. Tomoaki Motojima, who heads a Taiwan-based association representing people from Kumamoto, also expressed gratitude to Taiwanese donors during the ceremony. Motojima spoke about the impact of the earthquake and the work that remains necessary to rebuild affected communities. The donations will provide additional financial resources as the recovery process continues. Kumamoto Governor Takashi Kimura had also previously thanked people in Taiwan for their assistance. Taiwanese organisations began fundraising and relief activities soon after the earthquake, while some groups also provided supplies and hot meals at evacuation shelters. Donations Reflect Growing Connections With Kumamoto The relationship between Taiwan and Kumamoto has grown in recent years through economic and community ties. TSMC’s investment in the prefecture has been particularly significant, with its semiconductor manufacturing operation in Kikuyo creating a direct connection between Taiwan’s technology industry and the region. The

Japan Moves Up One Place in Global Gender Gap Report but Remains Lowest Among G7 Japan has moved up one place in the latest World Economic Forum gender gap rankings, but the country remains at the bottom of the Group of Seven industrialized economies, according to the Global Gender Gap Report 2026. Japan ranked 117th out of 145 countries and economies covered by this year’s report, improving from 118th in 2025. Its overall gender parity score also increased slightly, rising from 0.666 last year to 0.670 in 2026, with a score of 1 representing complete parity between women and men. The report measures gender gaps in four broad areas: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. Japan’s performance varies considerably between those categories, with particularly large differences between its educational results and its political representation. Japan Ranks 117th Out of 145 Countries The World Economic Forum published its 2026 Global Gender Gap Report on September 16. The report marks the 20th edition of the index, which has been used since 2006 to track differences between women and men across four major areas of social and economic life. Japan’s overall score of 67.0 percent means that the country has closed approximately two-thirds of the gender gap measured by the index. That represents an improvement of 0.4 percentage points compared with the previous year’s score. The one-place improvement in the ranking is relatively small, and Japan continues to occupy the lowest position among the G7 countries. The other G7 members perform considerably higher in the overall index, including Germany, which ranks ninth globally with a score of 81.7 percent. The World Economic Forum cautions that the index measures gender parity using specific indicators rather than providing a complete assessment of every aspect of women’s and men’s lives. The results also depend on the latest available data from different international and national sources. Political Empowerment Remains a Major Gap One of Japan’s largest gaps is in political empowerment. The country recorded a score of only 10.5 percent in this category in 2026, reflecting the relatively low level of gender parity in political representation. The political empowerment measurement includes the proportion of women in parliament, the proportion of women in ministerial positions and the number of years in which a country has had a woman as head of government. Japan’s political empowerment score nevertheless improved compared with the previous year. The World Economic Forum said the country’s score in this category increased by 0.02, with developments in government leadership contributing to the change. The report also records longer-term improvements in women’s representation in Japanese politics. Over the 20 years covered by the index, parity in parliamentary representation increased by 6.8 percentage points, while parity in ministerial representation increased by 4.5 percentage points. Despite those changes, political representation remains one of the areas in which Japan has the largest remaining gender gap. The country’s performance in this category is considerably lower than its results in education and health. Economic Participation Score Falls Japan’s economic participation and opportunity score moved in the opposite direction. The score fell from 61.3 percent in 2025 to 60.9 percent in 2026. This part of the index considers several indicators related to participation in the workforce, employment and economic opportunities. It also takes account of differences in estimated earned income and representation in professional and senior positions. Although Japan’s score declined over the past year, the country has made longer-term progress in this category. The World Economic Forum says Japan’s economic parity score has increased by 6.4 percentage points over the 20 editions of the index. The longer-term improvement has included a 13.1 percentage-point increase in parity in labour-force participation. The parity measure for professional and technical workers has increased by 8.6 percentage points, while the figure for legislators, senior officials and managers has increased by 5.7 percentage points. The estimated earned-income measure has also improved over the period covered by the index, with parity increasing by 14.1 percentage points since Japan was first included in the report. Education Is Close to Gender Parity Japan performs substantially better in education. The country recorded a score of 99.4 percent for educational attainment in the 2026 report, placing it 68th globally in this particular category. The World Economic Forum says Japan has maintained full parity in adult literacy and primary-school enrolment throughout the period covered by its index. The remaining gap in the education category is concentrated largely in tertiary education enrolment. Japan’s parity score for tertiary education enrolment was 97.4 percent in 2026. That means the difference between women and men in the educational indicators measured by the report is considerably smaller than the gap recorded in political empowerment or economic participation. Japan ranked eighth within the Eastern Asia and the Pacific regional grouping for educational attainment. Its overall education performance therefore contrasts sharply with its position in the overall gender gap index. Health and Survival Shows a More Stable Picture The health and survival category is another area in which Japan’s performance is comparatively strong. The World Economic Forum describes the country’s trajectory in this category as broadly stable over time. The index considers gender differences in health-related indicators, including healthy life expectancy. Japan has experienced some changes in this measure, but the overall health and survival category has not shown the same level of gap as political empowerment. The World Economic Forum’s global figures show that health and survival is one of the four areas in which gender parity is closest to being achieved worldwide. Educational attainment is also much closer to parity globally than political empowerment and economic participation. The contrast between the categories is particularly clear in Japan. The country has a near-parity score in education while continuing to record much larger differences in political and economic indicators. Japan Has Improved Since 2006 Although Japan remains relatively low in the overall international ranking, its score has increased since the gender gap index was first introduced. The World Economic Forum calculates that Japan’s