Search - 2017

 
 
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Jun 23, 2017

Fintech firm uses credit card data to fix holes in Japan's consumption figures

Private consumption is 56 percent of Japan's GDP, so understanding where people are spending and what they're buying is essential to have a clear picture of what's going on in the world's third-biggest economy. That's true not just for the government, but also for businesses and people.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / World
Jun 22, 2017

North Korea's real strategy

The idea that North Korea will abandon its weapons programs in exchange for the promise of security and regime survival has been tested has failed whenever it has been tested.
Japan Times
CULTURE / Music
Jun 22, 2017

Overseas pop acts need a funny bone

The first half of 2017 hasn't produced much in the way of compelling music stories in Japan. By this time last year, we were coming down from the Enon Kawatani-Becky affair, and behind-the-scenes intrigue was bubbling up around SMAP (who broke up at the end of the year). These past six months have been...
Japan Times
CULTURE / Music
Jun 22, 2017

One year after changes to the 'anti-dancing' law, clubbers are hopeful

Around two dozen people shuffle about the dark interior of Alzar, a recently opened nightclub on the eighth floor of a building in Osaka's Chuo Ward that also features a capsule hotel and sauna. Most hover near the concrete wall, watching a European DJ play house music. A group orders Champagne, taking...
Japan Times
WORLD
Jun 22, 2017

1 million Nigerian farmers given seeds to avert famine in region hit by Boko Haram

Seeds and fertilizer are being delivered to more than a million farmers in Boko Haram-hit northeast Nigeria ahead of the rainy season to combat growing hunger and dwindling aid in a region threatened with famine, the United Nations said on Wednesday.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Jun 21, 2017

As Japan Inc. inefficiency reigns, some see going paperless as a clear fix

Looking for a job in Japan? You might want to start off by writing a resume by hand and using your hanko (personal seal) to prove its authenticity. If you actually get hired, you may need to get used to faxing documents to clients.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Society
Jun 20, 2017

Top U.N. official suggests even limited progress on refugees would be step in right direction for Japan

Suggesting that even limited progress would be amenable, the head of the Tokyo office of the top U.N. body on refugees asked the Japanese public Tuesday for progress toward a better understanding of what accepting more refugees and displaced people would mean.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / World
Jun 20, 2017

Macron and the post-revolutionary idea

The key to political novice Emmanuel Macron's success is found far from France — and four decades removed from the present.
Japan Times
JAPAN
Jun 20, 2017

Another confirmed Kake document adds to pile suggesting Abe favoritism

Document confirmed by the education ministry appears to show that Abe favored Kake Gakuen for a special deregulation zone project before panel review and approval.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / World
Jun 20, 2017

How populists win when they lose

The choices made by established conservative elites, as much as the challenges posed by insurgent outsiders, determine the fate of democracy.
Japan Times
ASIA PACIFIC
Jun 19, 2017

New Beijing chief vows to finally win fight against pollution

Beijing's new top official vowed to tackle the city's smog problem, a simmering cause of discontent among China's expanding middle class.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / Japan
Jun 19, 2017

Why the prime minister still loves Trump

There are significant incentives — commercial, security and more — for Japan to maintain a strong relationship with the U.S.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / World
Jun 19, 2017

Countering China's high-altitude land grab

To counter Chinese expansionism, India needs a new containment strategy, one by which the country bares its teeth.
Japan Times
JAPAN / FUKUSHIMA FILE
Jun 18, 2017

For Fukushima returnees, security a growing concern in deserted towns

It's like a dream to once again be able to live in my "home, sweet home."
BUSINESS / Companies
Jun 16, 2017

Amazon to plunk down $13.7 billion for upmarket grocer Whole Foods

Amazon.com Inc said it would buy Whole Foods Market Inc. in a deal valued at about $13.7 billion, including debt.
Japan Times
MULTIMEDIA
Jun 16, 2017

June 17, 2017

Japan Times
COMMENTARY / World
Jun 16, 2017

Birth of a Trump doctrine?

If the gamble Trump is taking in trying to renegotiate agreements doesn't backfire, it could define a new doctrine for the U.S. role in the world.
Japan Times
BASKETBALL / B. League / B. LEAGUE NOTEBOOK
Jun 15, 2017

Ito out as Tokyo coach despite making playoffs

Coaching changes are quickly shaking up the leadership foundation of the B. League.
Japan Times
COMMENTARY / Japan
Jun 14, 2017

Time for a Japanese rethink on North Korea?

If and when the U.S. does begin to join South Korea in holding a dialogue with North Korea, Japan will have to quickly ask itself whether limiting its approach to pressure is a good idea
Japan Times
MORE SPORTS
Jun 14, 2017

Sato revels in glow of historic Indy 500 triumph

Takuma Sato joked that he has had a little too much milk since the great feat he accomplished on May 28 — when he became the first Japanese and Asian driver to win the prestigious Indianapolis 500.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / Tech
Jun 14, 2017

Nintendo unleashes a flurry of new games to fuel Switch momentum

Nintendo Co. has announced a slate of new titles for its new hybrid console Switch, moving to capitalize on early excitement for its newest game system.

Longform

Construction takes place on the Takanawa Gateway Convention Center in Tokyo, slated to open in 2025.
A boom for business tourism in Japan?