Essential news for expats in Japan
Tokyo's influenza cases doubled in early February 2026, with Influenza B increasing significantly. This strain spreads easily as it often lacks high fever, making detection difficult for residents.
Executives from retirement service Moomuri were arrested for illegal lawyer kickback schemes, with two lawyers referred to prosecutors. The case highlights risks for expats using such services.
Severe winter weather is causing fatalities and major disruptions across Japan through February 8th. Multiple deaths from snow removal accidents highlight dangers, while whiteout conditions threaten transportation.
Japanese startups raised over ¥4 billion in early February 2026, with major investments in AI-driven supply chain management, restaurant business tools, and wireless charging technology, creating new opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs.
Japan's health ministry disciplined 28 doctors and dentists with penalties ranging from license revocations to practice suspensions, demonstrating the country's commitment to healthcare accountability and patient safety.
Recent earthquake in Kagoshima posed no tsunami threat. Typhoon Pennya won't affect Japan. Three snow-removal deaths highlight winter safety risks as temperatures rise across northern regions.
Market turbulence affects expat investors as Japanese corporations restructure, the yen weakens to 156 per dollar, and AI concerns shake tech stocks, while financial sector profits surge above 1 trillion yen.
Tokyo police arrested executives from retirement proxy service Momuri for illegally referring clients to lawyers for compensation. Two lawyers also face charges, exposing regulatory gaps in Japan's growing retirement assistance industry.
Tokyo gained over 65,000 net residents in 2025, continuing population concentration trends. Meanwhile, rural depopulation forces innovative solutions like mobile voting stations in Hyogo Prefecture.
The Nikkei hit a record 54,720 on February 3 amid yen weakness, while the BOJ began selling its ETF holdings. These developments significantly impact expats' purchasing power and investment portfolios.
Multiple deaths and infrastructure damage reported across northern Japan due to record snowfall. Warming temperatures from February 4th increase risks of roof avalanches and snow slides despite easing snowfall.
Executives from retirement agency Momuri arrested for illegal referral fees, exposing regulatory gaps. Meanwhile, Japan's spring wage negotiations emphasize sustainable increases through proper pricing mechanisms.
Record snowfall across Japan's Sea of Japan regions has triggered military deployment in Aomori and multiple fatal snow removal accidents, prompting urgent safety warnings for all residents undertaking winter maintenance.