, of Fukuchi, Fukuoka Prefecture, is the oldest person in Japan at 113, and Tomoji Tanabe from Miyakonojo, Miyazaki Prefecture, who turns 111 on Monday, is the oldest man. KYODO PHOTOS

Women continue to make up the vast majority of centenarians, accounting for 85.4 percent, the second-highest figure on record.

Our Planet

Hidetaka Ishii, an official at the Chiba Municipal Government, says close coordination with private-sector operators is key for regional decarbonization efforts.
Japan’s climate heroes show potential and limits of local initiatives

Longform

Efforts to challenge the stigma of menstruation have continued well into the 21st century with social media campaigns and increased discussion over topics such as “period poverty.”
Menstruation in Japan: Breaking the silence, slowly