Public Policy & Governance
Supreme Court Finalizes Dissolution Order for Unification Church
Japan's Supreme Court finalized the Unification Church dissolution order, rejecting appeals and stripping its legal status. Experts urge victim compensation and support systems for departing members.
Technology & Startups
KDDI Email Breach Exposes Up to 14.22 Million Accounts in Japan
KDDI reported a major security breach affecting up to 14.22 million email accounts on June 23, 2026. Users of Nifty, Biglobe, and four other providers should immediately change passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan's Prime Minister Upgrades Official Vehicle to Century SUV
Japan's Prime Minister switched from a sedan to an SUV-type Toyota Century on June 22, 2026, marking the first SUV official vehicle while maintaining the prestigious Century brand for security and modern needs.
Taxation
Food Prices Rising as Consumption Tax Debate Heats Up in Japan
Major food price increases from companies like Nippon Ham begin in August, while the government debates temporarily reducing food consumption tax to 1% starting April 2027 for two years before reverting to 8%.
Labor Law & Employment
Kawai Musical Instruments Sanctioned for Underpaying Freelance Teachers
Kawai Musical Instruments received official sanctions from Japan's Fair Trade Commission for underpaying freelance music teachers for trial lessons, violating the Freelance Protection Law.
Financial Services
Yen Hits 39-Year Low as Japan, U.S. Hold Emergency Currency Talks
The yen fell to 161.90 per dollar on June 22nd, its weakest in 39 years, prompting emergency talks between Japanese and U.S. finance officials amid growing concerns about the currency's rapid decline.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Shinkansen Safety Under Scrutiny After Platform Barrier Breach at Hamamatsu
A fatal platform barrier breach at Hamamatsu Station halted Tokaido Shinkansen service for three hours, affecting 140,000 passengers and raising questions about safety gaps in Japan's bullet train infrastructure.
Public Policy & Governance
Iran Threatens Hormuz Strait Closure: Energy Security Concerns for Japan
Iran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz on June 20, risking Japan's oil supply as 95% of imports pass through this route. Expats may face higher energy costs and economic impacts.
Public Policy & Governance
Tokyo Elementary School Fire Raises Safety Questions After 11 Injured
An electric heater fire in a Tokyo elementary school injured 11 people, exposing issues with early fire detection and evacuation procedures. The incident highlights important safety considerations for foreign families.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan Post to Receive ¥65 Billion Annual Subsidy for Network Maintenance
Japan's parliament approved ¥65 billion in annual subsidies for Japan Post to maintain its nationwide network. The funding ensures continued postal services across Japan, including rural areas where expats may rely on post offices.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan Proposes Historic Law to Expand Imperial Family Membership
Japan's government has proposed legislation allowing female imperial members to retain status after marriage and permitting adoption of male descendants from former royal branches to address the shrinking Imperial Family.
Immigration & Visas
Japan to Increase Foreign Visa Application Fees Fivefold from July 2025
Japan will increase visa application fees fivefold starting July 2025, significantly raising costs for foreign residents and visitors. The government announced the decision in June 2026, though specific fee amounts remain undisclosed.