Stay Informed, Stay Ahead
Japan‘s passage into December means that the weather is expected to be distinctly unpredictable, with significant differences in conditions across the country. Meteorologist Akiko Aoyama reports that the Japan Sea side will continue to experience unsettled weather, while the Pacific side will enjoy clear skies and drier conditions. This sharp contrast brings challenges, particularly with…
On September 18, Mitsubishi, KDDI, and Lawson announced an innovative project aimed at transforming convenience stores in Japan. The new initiative, named povo Data Oasis, will allow users of KDDI’s online mobile brand povo to enhance their data capacity simply by visiting a Lawson store. By the end of 2024, users can add 100 MB…
The High Court of Nagoya has granted an afghan child born in Japan to refugee parents Japanese full legal citizenship, in an extremely controversial decision. The ruling is believed to be the first of its kind. The case centred on the status of Afghanistan at the time of the child’s birth, with the court concluding…
Japan is set to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for immigration formalities, even affecting those from visa-exempt countries under waiver agreements. This system, tentatively named ‘JESTA’, is in development and expected to be operational several years from now. It will require citizens from 71 nations to apply for pre-clearance. JESTA Overview and Implementation Timeline JESTA…
TOKYO, Japan — In a positive sign of easing semiconductor shortages, select “My Suica” and “Pasmo smartcards” are back on sale as of Sunday. These cards, essential for public transportation and cashless payments across Japan, were withdrawn in August 2023 due to difficulties in procuring the necessary chips. Named Cards Available Again Amid Easing Chip…
Japan is going to introduce e-Visa or Japan ETA, an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system for foreign visitors who are currently exempt from entry visas. This change will affect people coming from 71 countries and territories, including many European Union nations, who can enter the country with just a passport that is valid for 3…
There is a gradual shift towards a dual-pricing system, with foreigners overcharged with the Japanese nationals and residents. In light of the COVID-19 outbreak slowing down, the number of foreign tourists replenished many sites and restaurants in the country. Recent exchange rate reforms in the view of the yen market have led into a depreciated yen,…