Student AI usage has doubled since 2024, prompting Japanese schools to require oral explanations alongside written work. MEXT's new guidelines aim to verify genuine understanding while allowing AI as a learning tool.
Payment processor Zentoshin's bankruptcy is disrupting restaurants nationwide. METI and Financial Services Agency are investigating the company and its lenders, raising concerns about payment system stability.
Rice inventory in Japan reached a record 243 million tons in June 2026, driving retail prices down for four straight weeks to 3,373 yen per 5kg—the lowest in 21 months, benefiting consumers.
Japan has established an expert committee to develop a comprehensive framework for future foreign worker policy, with a basic plan due by March 2027. This signals potential major changes to visa systems and residency pathways.
Japan's government is establishing an expert panel to review long-term foreign worker acceptance policies. The move signals potential comprehensive immigration reforms as Japan addresses labor shortages and aging demographics.
Japan's railway companies are improving night shift conditions and increasing allowances to address severe worker shortages. JR West will cancel services if crew rest is inadequate, while industry-wide facility upgrades aim to retain staff.
The yen weakened to 163 per dollar on July 22 due to Middle East tensions and rising oil prices, reducing purchasing power for expats while authorities remain alert for potential intervention.
Japan faces record-breaking heat with temperatures exceeding 40°C, over 10,000 weekly heatstroke transports, and one death in Tokyo. Experts warn consecutive hot days cause cumulative dehydration risks requiring urgent prevention measures.
Hand, foot and mouth disease cases have surged 1.3 times in one week, with 35 prefectures exceeding warning levels. Experts warn northern regions may see further increases as temperatures rise.
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.
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.
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.
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.