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 Eric Johnston

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Eric Johnston
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jul 5, 2020
Powerful Japanese medical group has history of political prescriptions
Here's a closer look at the group, its political connections and what the recent change in its leadership might mean for the Liberal Democratic Party.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jul 1, 2020
Japan's new plastic bag charge: What it means for consumers and the environment
The new rule is aimed at reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in the country's rivers, forests, streams and, ultimately, surrounding oceans.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Society
Jun 26, 2020
Japan Black Lives Matter marches reflect shared sense of justice, U.S. envoy says
'Perhaps some people feel that it's important to hold the ideal America up in the mirror and hold it to account,' says Osaka-Kobe Consul General Karen Kelley.
Japan Times
JAPAN / History / EXPLAINER
Jun 23, 2020
The Battle of Okinawa: Fierce fighting at the end of World War II
By the end of the battle, around 100,000 Japanese soldiers had died, either killed in combat or by suicide.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Politics / EXPLAINER
Jun 21, 2020
Defense Ministry blunders and local opposition ruin Japan's Aegis Ashore plans
The controversial project was long troubled by doubts about whether it was even needed, and by whom.
Japan Times
JAPAN / View from Osaka
Jun 21, 2020
Has Black Lives Matter’s Osaka march inspired new generation of rights activists in Japan?
The vast majority of participants at a Black Lives Matter march on June 7 appeared to be under 40 — with many likely in their teens and 20s.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jun 21, 2020
Tokyo and Osaka governors vie for national attention
As Yuriko Koike gears up for re-election in the Tokyo gubernatorial race, comparisons are being drawn between her and Osaka Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Politics / FOCUS
Jun 20, 2020
Osaka's second merger push faces pitfalls from pandemic, Abe's poll woes
Osaka voters will once again face a referendum on merging the city's 24 wards following a decision on a plan that would create four large, semiautonomous wards.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jun 16, 2020
Former South Korean 'comfort women' support group hit by criticism and probe
The lawmaker who previously led the group faces calls to step down after being accused of misusing funds.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jun 11, 2020
The North Korean abduction issue in Japan: When will the waiting end?
The Japanese government officially claims 17 Japanese nationals were abducted, but adds that there could be more than 800 others.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 5, 2020
As George Floyd marches loom, do's and don'ts for protesting in Japan
Compared with many parts of the world, Japanese protest rallies are quite orderly and peaceful.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jun 4, 2020
Japan's smart cities: Technological dreams or 'Big Brother' nightmares?
Late last month, the Diet passed a revised bill paving the way for so-called “super cities” or “smart cities.” Supporters tout them as high-tech marvels where artificial intelligence and big data are to be used to provide more efficient and cost-effective solutions to social problems, especially...
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 2, 2020
Osaka introduces QR contact tracing system as bars and restaurants reopen
Users who scan the code at establishments will be notified if another patron is later found to have become infected.
Japan Times
JAPAN / EXPLAINER
Jun 2, 2020
Japan's new space squadron takes a giant leap forward
The realization of Japan's first space squadron marks a large step forward for the nation's space ambitions at a time when, due to an increased number of satellite launches, the Earth's near space is more crowded than ever.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Society / EXPLAINER
May 31, 2020
Aomori's Rokkasho nuclear plant gets green light but hurdles remain
Construction on the massive facility, which began in 1993, has been plagued by delays over the years.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 23, 2020
Aichi and Mie governors urge continued restraint on cross-prefectural travel
“I want everyone to be strict about refraining from unnecessary travel back and forth to other prefectures,” Aichi Gov. Hideaki Omura said.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 22, 2020
Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo residents ambivalent about lifting emergency
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also offered praise for the business-minded 'Osaka model' Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura drafted to bounce back from the virus.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 20, 2020
Local leaders prepare anti-coronavirus measures at natural disaster evacuation shelters
June traditionally marks the start of the rainy season in most of Japan, while typhoons normally start to arrive in August.
Japan Times
JAPAN / View from Osaka
May 16, 2020
Can Osaka's governor inspire change before he gets 'hammered down'?
There are several reasons, some unique to Osaka and the Kansai region, that account for the governor's newfound popularity.
Japan Times
JAPAN
May 16, 2020
Withdrawal by Las Vegas Sands a major setback for Japan's casino efforts
The decision comes as doubts grow about whether integrated resorts can be opened in Japan within the next few years.

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