Category
Tokyo Notes
A Blow for Girl Power?
Japan disappoints in many gender equality rankings. Is a small Valentine’s Day revolution a sign of change?
Kan Should Ignore Polls
Naoto Kan should ignore a new opinion poll that shows support for his Cabinet at under 20 percent.
Few Clues Over Tokyo Poll
Despite there being only two months until Tokyo’s gubernatorial poll, there’s so far only one official candidate.
Another Okinawa Battle
Renewed construction in Okinawa has reignited debate over the US military. But is the time for talk over?
Sumo in a Fix
New evidence of match-fixing and the cancellation of the spring tournament further tarnish the sport’s battered image.
Hatoyama Blasts Kan Policy
Japan’s ex-prime minister says Japan should focus on improving Asian ties, and criticizes the latest Cabinet reshuffle.
The Child Abduction Debate
Japan’s custody laws make it tough for foreign fathers to see their bi-racial children. Is this set to change?
The Emperor Taboo
Discussion of the role of Japan’s Imperial family is still a tricky subject for Japan’s media. It shouldn’t be.
The Rising Costs of War
US defence spending has risen 63 percent in the last decade. Will Japan be expected to help foot more of the bill?
Hawker Accused Book Published
Tatsuya Ichihashi’s account of his life after the murder of Lindsay Hawker raises moral and legal questions.
What the Greenpeace Case Says
The case of two Japanese Greenpeace activists should be about a lot more than just trespassing and theft.
Power Before the People?
Japan’s problems didn’t begin with the DPJ. If elections are to mean anything, a party needs a fair crack at the whip.