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 Kanako Takahara

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Kanako Takahara
Kanako Takahara is a staff writer who has covered national politics, diplomacy, business and the economy at The Japan Times. A graduate of Sophia University, she is currently a national news editor.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jul 8, 2022
Despite shock of Abe's death, Upper House poll to proceed as planned
Although some leeway is given to local elections, the government has previously said that national elections cannot be postponed.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jul 8, 2022
Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe assassinated
A suspect was arrested after Abe, one of the most consequential leaders in Japan's postwar history, was shot while campaigning in the city of Nara on Friday.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jul 8, 2022
Former PM Shinzo Abe in 'serious condition' after being shot in Nara
The former prime minister was attacked while giving a campaign speech ahead of Sunday's Upper House election.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jul 4, 2022
Celebrity and intense competition define Tokyo's Upper House race
With a large number of votes needed to secure a seat, new and unknown candidates face an uphill struggle, leading to many well-known faces on the ballot.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Society / EXPLAINER
Jun 29, 2022
Unpacking Japan's latest ruling on same-sex marriage
While the Osaka and Sapporo courts agreed on one key point, they diverged on whether the lack of same-sex marriage violates the Constitution's equality principle.
Japan Times
JAPAN / New Normal 2.0
Jun 27, 2022
Japan prepares for bounce in tourism, but pre-pandemic demand still far off
Destinations such as Niseko in Hokkaido are gearing up for 'revenge travel' by domestic and foreign tourists, but caution over COVID-19 limits the expected rise in numbers.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 21, 2022
Japan's Justice Ministry to propose shared parental authority after divorce
Under the system, parents would be able to jointly make major decisions for their child, such those related to health care and education.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Jun 17, 2022
BOJ stands pat on policy despite pressure following Fed rate hike
While many economists had said a policy shift was unlikely, the Fed's decision to introduce its largest rate hike since 1994 had fueled speculation that an adjustment might be made.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 16, 2022
Business license of disgraced Hokkaido tour boat firm revoked
Shiretoko Yuransen, based in the town of Shari, Hokkaido, will not be able to apply for a new license for the next two years.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 15, 2022
No more silent lunches? Some Japan schools ease COVID restrictions
With coronavirus infections dropping, some municipalities are lifting restrictions to let students socialize during the midday meal.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 10, 2022
Travel agencies rush to meet COVID-19 guidelines as Japan reopens for tourism
With new government protocols in place, it will take time before Japan's airports swarm with overseas travelers again.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 7, 2022
Japan to make tourists wear masks and purchase medical insurance
The Japan Tourism Agency has unveiled guidelines setting out what travel agencies, escorting guides and tourists will be required to do before and during their trip.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 3, 2022
Japan allows visits by extended family, fiances and common-law partners
Those in a relationship with a resident of Japan equivalent to a relative, such as a fiance, will be required to provide proof of their relationship, such as an engagement certificate.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 2, 2022
Japan residents flock to South Korean Embassy for visas as tourism resumes
Demand for South Korean tourist visas is so great that the country's embassy in Tokyo has limited applications to 150 per day, with some applicants camping out overnight.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 1, 2022
Japan’s experience rebuilding can help Ukraine, Tokyo's envoy says
Ukraine has estimated direct losses from the war totaling at least $650 billion, with the indirect cost being as much as $1 trillion.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 1, 2022
Japan eliminates airport testing and quarantine for some arrivals
The eased measures come as the country plans to open its borders to inbound tourists on guided tours from June 10.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 31, 2022
Japan to end special visas for people stranded in country due to COVID
The temporary measure has granted six-month “designated activities” residence statuses to foreign students and trainees stuck in Japan due to border controls in their home country.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 30, 2022
Tourist on Japan's package tour trial tests positive for COVID-19
The patient and three close contacts got tested after the individual complained of a sore throat on Monday.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Explainer
May 27, 2022
As Japan’s borders creak open, who can enter now?
With the nation reopening little by little — a limited number of tourists have already arrived on package tour trials — it's difficult to keep track of who is allowed in and who isn't.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 26, 2022
It's official: Japan to allow in foreign tourists on package tours from June 10
Kishida has said that Japan's strict border controls were necessary to buy time, but the government will ease restrictions from here on.

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