Japan to introduce ‘blue ticket’ fines for cyclists Wednesday
WorldTOKYO -- Japan will introduce the 'blue ticket' system for cyclists on Wednesday, allowing riders who commit relatively minor traffic violations to avoid criminal punishment by paying fines.
Japan to secure missile shelters for all residents by 2030
WorldTOKYO -- The Japanese government at a cabinet meeting Tuesday adopted a policy to secure temporary shelters to be used in the event of missile attacks and other emergencies for all residents at the municipal level by 2030.
Gender stereotype linking pink with women persists
WorldTOKYO -- The stereotype of associating pink with women remains deeply entrenched in society, appearing in products such as toys and household goods, as well as in the female characters of the 'Power Rangers' superhero series.
Peach Aviation Limited unveils new logo, fleet livery
WorldPeach Aviation Limited, Japan’s first low-cost carrier, will roll out its new brand logo on April 1, 2026, followed by its refreshed aircraft livery in spring of 2027.
Hindu devotional clubbing sways India's youth
WorldIn India’s capital, Hindu “bhajan clubbing” is electrifying nightlife, with revellers dancing to traditional devotional songs reimagined through guitars and pounding drumbeats, transforming public venues into spiritual hangouts.
Japan's cherry blossom season dazzles locals and tourists
WorldJapanese locals and tourists packed the country's most stunning cherry blossom spots on Monday to enjoy the dazzling flowers at full bloom.
Survey finds widespread concern over shingles among older adults with chronic conditions
WorldMore than three-quarters of older adults living with chronic illnesses fear that shingles could disrupt their daily lives, according to new survey data released in March by GSK, highlighting gaps in awareness and prevention.
Australian regulator probes Facebook, YouTube over teen social media ban
WorldA host of tech giants including Facebook and YouTube are under investigation for potentially breaching Australia's world-leading social media ban for under-16s, the nation's online watchdog said Tuesday.
Japan aiming to attract more foreign visitors to national parks
WorldTOKYO -- The Japanese Environment Ministry aims to raise the annual number of foreign visitors to national parks in the country to 14 million by 2030, up 1.4-fold from last year's total.
Japan to begin regular RSV vaccinations
WorldTOKYO -- The Japanese health ministry is set to begin regular vaccinations for respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, which can cause pneumonia in infants, on Wednesday, the start of fiscal 2026.
