At Least 15 Feared Dead After Torrential Rains Sweep Through Southern Japan
Japanese officials say it's the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the region. More than 200,000 people were asked to evacuate.
Japan
Tokyo Olympics Organizers Aim To 'Simplify' Games
Japanese organizing officials said Wednesday that they want to "streamline" the games, which may include seeking to reduce the total number of participants. They haven't provided specific details.
Japan's Shinzo Abe Lifts Coronavirus State Of Emergency As Critics Swarm
Even though Japan has not seen the same devastating numbers as some others, its prime minister is still grappling with dissatisfaction at home over what critics call a botched response.
No Tokyo Olympics Next Year Unless COVID-19 Can Be Contained, Japan's Abe Says
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said it would be "impossible" to hold the already delayed Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 2021 if the disease is not brought under control.
Japan To Allow Dentists To Conduct Coronavirus Tests
Japan currently conducts about 9,000 tests per day, and the move for dentists to administer them is aimed at relieving the burden on doctors and boosting capacity.
In Japan, Mythical 'Amabie' Emerges From 19th Century Folklore To Fight COVID-19
The sea monster from folklore has emerged in art, food and fashion as a symbol of hope and pop culture mascot. Its first depiction was in 1846, telling people to draw it and "be free from disease."
Japan Declares Nationwide State Of Emergency As Coronavirus Spreads
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the declaration will last until May 6 and that the goal is for residents to limit contact with others by up to 80%. Every citizen will get stimulus funds of about $930.
'A Reminder That Nature Is Strong': In Japan, A 1,000-Year-Old Cherry Tree Blooms
For now, the coronavirus pandemic has stopped tourists from visiting the ancient tree in Fukushima prefecture. "No matter what," says the tree's caretaker, "the cherry blossoms are still there."
Emergency Declared In Japanese Prefecture Hit By 2nd Wave Of Coronavirus Infections
Hokkaido, which saw the country's highest incidence of coronavirus as the pandemic first swept through Asia, had been returning to normal until a sudden recent spike in cases.
Japan's Shinzo Abe Will Declare State Of Emergency As Coronavirus Cases Surge
The prime minister confirmed Monday that he would issue the declaration that allows governors of hard-hit prefectures to issue stay-at-home directives.