Housing
Tokyo Area Condominium Prices Break 100 Million Yen Barrier
Tokyo area new condominium prices averaged 101.35 million yen in first half 2026, crossing 100 million yen for the first time. Rising costs impact both purchase and rental markets for foreign residents.
Public Policy & Governance
My Number Cards to Link with AI Agents as Mandatory Acquisition Shelved
Japan will integrate My Number cards with AI agents while postponing mandatory acquisition. The cabinet decision advances digital services but maintains voluntary participation for all residents.
Technology & Startups
Nichirei Cyberattack: Hacker Group Claims Ransomware Attack on Major Food Supplier
A hacker group claimed responsibility for a ransomware attack on Nichirei Corporation on July 21st, disrupting the major food supplier's shipping operations and potentially affecting product availability across Japan.
Financial Services
Yen Plunges to 163 Per Dollar, Lowest in Nearly 40 Years
The yen fell to 163 per dollar on July 21, its weakest in nearly 40 years, driven by Iran tensions. The decline significantly impacts expats' purchasing power, remittances, and imported goods costs.
Public Policy & Governance
China and Russia Conduct Live-Fire Drills in Japan's Economic Waters
Chinese naval vessels conducted live-fire machine gun drills inside Japan's EEZ near Okinotorishima on July 19, with Russian ships also present. Japan's Ministry of Defense is monitoring the situation closely.
Disaster Preparedness
Tree Collapse at Shizuoka Soccer Venue Injures Eight, Raises Safety Concerns
Eight people including children were injured when multiple trees collapsed at a Gotemba soccer ground on July 19, 2026. Three women sustained serious injuries in the incident, which highlights outdoor venue safety concerns for expats.
Disaster Preparedness
Dangerous Heat Wave Sweeps Japan: What Foreign Residents Must Know
A dangerous heat wave is affecting Japan from Tohoku to Kyushu, with temperatures reaching 38°C. Authorities urge all residents to use air conditioning properly and maintain constant hydration to prevent heat stroke.
Taxation
Japan Proposes Cutting Food Tax to 1% - Benefits Remain Uncertain
Japan's government proposes cutting food consumption tax from 8% to 1%, potentially saving families 60,000 yen yearly. However, economists warn companies may raise prices during the transition, making actual benefits uncertain.
Transportation & Infrastructure
JR Tokai and Shizuoka Sign Deal to Begin Linear Shinkansen Construction
JR Tokai and Shizuoka Prefecture signed an environmental agreement on July 18, 2026, ending years of deadlock and allowing Linear Shinkansen construction to proceed through the prefecture.
Financial Services
Apple Raises iPhone Prices in Japan by 10% Amid Yen Weakness
Apple increased iPhone prices in Japan by approximately 10% on July 18, 2026, due to yen weakness. Even budget models now exceed 100,000 yen, prompting increased demand for used devices.
Transportation & Infrastructure
JAL Introduces Online Alcohol Testing After Crew Violations Delay Flights
JAL submitted new alcohol prevention measures to transport authorities after two crew members violated drinking rules in May, causing flight delays. The airline will implement online alcohol testing before duty.
Taxation
Japan to Decide on Food Tax Cut by Early August Amid Political Divide
Japan's government will decide by early August whether to reduce consumption tax on food items, potentially lowering rates from 10% to 9%. The decision comes after cross-party talks failed to reach consensus.