Politics China Set to Resume Short-Term Visa Exemptions for Japanese Visitors
China is finalizing plans to resume short-term visa exemptions for Japanese visitors, following a meeting between President Xi and Prime Minister Ishiba.
Politics 
politician Okutani Chairman Denies Family Business Link to Bankruptcy and Saito Controversy
Chairman Okutani denies rumors linking his relative's bankruptcy to personal grudge against Governor Saito, calling it "not a family business."
policy Japan’s Economic Measures to Total 39 Trillion Yen, Focusing on Wages and Price Hikes
Japan's government will approve economic measures worth 39 trillion yen, focusing on wage increases, price hikes, and subsidies for utilities.
Japanese economy October Consumer Price Index Rises 2.3%, Rice Prices Soar Nearly 60%
Japan's October Consumer Price Index rose 2.3% year-on-year, driven by nearly 60% hikes in rice prices, according to government data.
news RIKEN Develops Salt-Water Decomposable Plastic to Reduce Environmental Impact
RIKEN's new plastic decomposes in salt water, returning to raw materials. This innovation aims to cut microplastic pollution.
Enterprise Year-End Parties Shift to Open Participation, Struggling with Low Turnout
Open-participation year-end parties are trending, but many lack attendees. Restaurants report fewer bookings than usual this season.
crime Hyogo Governor Race: Inamura’s Support Group to File Charges Over Social Media Ban
Inamura Kazumi's support group alleges false reports led to social media bans during the Hyogo election. Criminal charges planned.
news China Discovers Massive Gold Deposit in Hunan, Worth $82 Billion
A 1,000-ton gold deposit valued at $82 billion was found in Pingjiang, Hunan, China. Experts predict high extraction potential.
crime Inamura Kazumi’s Social Media Frozen Twice, Faces Criminal Charges
Inamura Kazumi's social media account was frozen twice due to false reports, leading to criminal charges for election interference.
war Russia Launches ICBM for the First Time in Ukraine War, Announces Ukraine
Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) during the Ukraine war, marking its first use in combat, according to Ukraine's Air Force.
talent Matsumoto Hitoshi Withdraws Lawsuit, Announces Future Activity Plans
Matsumoto Hitoshi withdraws his lawsuit over sexual assault allegations and announces plans to resume activities, with details to follow.
Japanese economy Edible Cricket Company Grillas Files for Bankruptcy After School Lunch Criticism
Grillas, a Tokushima-based edible cricket company, filed for bankruptcy after criticism over serving cricket powder in school lunches.