Posted in: Detained phone scam suspect extradited to Japan from Thailand See in context
The crime was committed in Thai therefore he is to be incarcerated in Thai.
1 ( +2 / -1 )
Posted in: China resolutely opposed to ex-Japan PM Aso's Taiwan remarks See in context
Aso, it's time to stay home and do some gardening.
-2 ( +3 / -5 )
Posted in: Is a Japanese language school better than self-study? See in context
The choice between self-study and attending a language school depends on your personal preferences, goals, and learning style. Some people thrive with self-study and enjoy the freedom it offers, while others benefit from the structure and accountability of a formal language school. You can also consider a hybrid approach, combining self-study with occasional classes or tutoring to get the best of both worlds.
5 ( +5 / -0 )
Posted in: Tokyo's Shibuya sees subdued Halloween as tight security dampens mood See in context
A probable revenue of at least 100 million yen gross - gone!
-4 ( +3 / -7 )
Posted in: Scallops for sale on U.S. base See in context
A woman walking out (maybe from the lavatory...) holding a pet bottle drink with no one in sight. Big seafood spender!
1 ( +4 / -3 )
Posted in: Tokyo's Shibuya sees subdued Halloween as tight security dampens mood See in context
Ken Hasebe's plan was far from the truth. He placed emphasis in avoiding lost of life based on last year's tragedy in South Korea and provide peace and tranquility for local residents - but instead they cordoned off most floor pathways literally forcing pedestrians to extreme narrow walk ways risking the welfare and safety of people; plus law enforcement agencies blasting whistles and loud speakers horns without end causing disturbance to public peace. Surreal!
-2 ( +4 / -6 )
Posted in: 2 workers at Fukushima plant hospitalized after accidentally sprayed with radioactive waste See in context
Oh my...here we go - again!?
-5 ( +4 / -9 )
Posted in: Tokyo's Shibuya braces for Halloween crowd despite calls to stay away See in context
Why not use Yoyogi Park facilities Saturday and Sunday instead of Shibuya crossing nightlife? Most festive events are conducted there with nearly zero altercation and somewhat adequate sanitation due process. I get the influx is a ten-fold, but worth a shot for all walks of life...children trick-or-treating the shops during daytime hours, costume contest discounts or prizes for young adults, group dances flashing their creativity all dolled up (Harajuku takers) until closing hours. It's a festivity of food and beverage, and to be merry. Just saying.
0 ( +2 / -2 )
Posted in: Abused ex-GSDF member attends Time event; says speaking out is key See in context
To first establish the problem, highlight the woman's actions in addressing it, and then emphasize her determination to support the victims in the future conveys a strong message of advocacy and social responsibility. Kudos for her.
2 ( +2 / -0 )
Posted in: IMF projects Japan's GDP to fall to world's 4th in 2023 after Germany See in context
Japan has one of the highest debt-to-GDP ratios in the world, exceeding 200%. This means that the country's total debt is more than twice the size of its annual economic output.
A high debt-to-GDP ratio can create concerns about fiscal sustainability and the government's ability to service its debt, especially if interest rates were to rise significantly.
Raising interest rates on government debt could lead to increased debt-servicing costs, further straining Japan's fiscal situation.
Japan has been able to maintain low-interest rates due in part to the Bank of Japan's monetary policies, including its aggressive bond-buying programs.
The Japanese government's fiscal policies, such as stimulus measures and budgetary decisions, are influenced by the need to manage the debt burden effectively.
-1 ( +2 / -3 )
Posted in: IAEA officials say Fukushima's ongoing discharge of treated wastewater going well See in context
The agency acknowledging that Japan had consulted with the international community, and its decision was based on a comprehensive and transparent process remains questionable.
-3 ( +4 / -7 )
Posted in: United Airlines rolling out plan that lets passengers in economy class with window seats board first See in context
It makes sense.
1 ( +1 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan Railway to allow dogs to ride without cages on special Tokyo-Izu train See in context
To mitigate risks and drawbacks, in the case of: rabies, zoonotic, safety and comfort, allergies and sensitivities, sanitation issues, noise disturbances, legal and liability concerns, unpredictable behavior, transportation restrictions (limited space) - it's essential for public transport authorities to have clear and enforced policies regarding pet transportation, including vaccination and documentation requirements. Pet owners should also take responsibility for their animals' behavior and health by ensuring they have the necessary documentation and are well-behaved during public transport rides. This balance allows for responsible pet ownership while also maintaining the safety and comfort of all passengers.
-2 ( +1 / -3 )
Posted in: Canadian ambassador calls for more Japan investment in EV battery project See in context
They also come with several drawbacks and risks. Limited Range - anxiety build up. It can be inconvenient for long trips, and charging infrastructure isn't as widespread in some regions. Battery Degradation - limited lifespan. EV batteries have a finite lifespan, typically lasting 8-15 years. Over time, the capacity of the battery decreases, leading to a reduction in range. Replacing the battery can be expensive. Safety Concerns - fire risk. Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode if they're damaged or overcharged. While these incidents are relatively rare, they have garnered attention and concern. Procurement - high initial cost: EVs are generally more expensive than their ICE counterparts, primarily due to the high cost of the battery. While this cost is decreasing, it can still be a barrier to entry for many consumers. Cold Weather Performance - reduced range. Cold weather can negatively impact battery performance, causing reduced range and slower charging times. Heating the cabin in extreme cold conditions can drain the battery quickly. Recycling and Disposal - environmental impact. Disposing of or recycling EV batteries can pose environmental challenges. Proper recycling facilities are needed to handle the toxic materials within the battery effectively.
0 ( +0 / -0 )
Posted in: Jada Pinkett Smith says revealing separation from Will Smith is a 'weight off my shoulders' See in context
Get lost with your insalubrious dilemma.
4 ( +4 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan to OK train fare hikes for holidays, weekends due to 'overtourism' concerns See in context
This comes with a range of drawbacks that need to be carefully considered and balanced against the desired outcomes...cost burden on tourists, reduced tourism revenues, inequality and access issues, negative impact on local communities, decline in hospitality industry, incentive for black market alternatives, long-term reputational damage, impact on local attractions, complex implementation and enforcement, unintended consequences, negative perceptions of Japan and reduced cultural exchange...just to list a few!
0 ( +2 / -2 )
Posted in: Man arrested for stealing ¥50 million from homes, offices in 13 prefectures See in context
Hand in the cookie jar! You do the crime - you pay the time!
1 ( +1 / -0 )
Posted in: Kishida sends offering to Yasukuni shrine for autumn festival; 2 ministers visit See in context
This decision is highly controversial and has historical, political, and cultural implications.
0 ( +1 / -1 )
Posted in: Smartphone sales sag globally: market tracker See in context
Companies must closely monitor consumer sentiment, economic indicators, and industry-specific trends to make informed decisions and navigate the recovery effectively.
0 ( +0 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan asks Iran to talk to Hamas and try to calm tensions with Israel See in context
Ms. Kamikawa, how come you not asking Israel instead?
1 ( +2 / -1 )
Posted in: Why are some Chinese women still looking to the West for love? See in context
Despite these potential drawbacks mentioned here, many cross-cultural relationships are successful and enriching for those involved.
10 ( +10 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan economy minister visits Yasukuni shrine ahead of autumn festival See in context
He pays tribute to convicted war criminals along with the war dead.
-10 ( +17 / -27 )
Posted in: Man pleads guilty to fatally abusing girlfriend’s 6-year-old daughter in Okayama See in context
I expect the judge to determine an appropriate sentence (death penalty or life in prison), considering factors like the severity of the abuse, and the child's condition of death to both parties involved.
RIP little angel Mao-chan!!
1 ( +1 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan bank payments clearing network restored after 2-day disruption See in context
I will not discard the possibility of Japan joining and practicing the monetary global bank reset that took place not long ago in USA and Europe. Just saying.
2 ( +2 / -0 )
Posted in: Japan trying to ensure safety of nationals amid Israel conflict See in context
Danger certainly unpredictable but one should assess "the writing on the wall" regardless. Safe voyage home, they're going to need it.
1 ( +1 / -0 )
Posted in: Kishida pledges to support AI development in next economic package See in context
It is self evident these elected representatives to handle systems on our behave are incapable and/or incompetent.
-4 ( +1 / -5 )
Posted in: Mayor of Tokyo's Shibuya Ward again asks Halloween partygoers to stay away See in context
He's gone mental - digressing from this celebratory function that most revere annually.
5 ( +6 / -1 )
Posted in: Japan school absenteeism at record high of nearly 300,000 in FY2022 See in context
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries implemented strict lockdown measures to contain the spread of the virus. These measures included the closure of schools and a shift to online or remote learning. The impact of these lockdowns on school absenteeism varied from country to country and depended on several factors, including the effectiveness of remote learning (economic disparities), access to technology and the internet (digital divide), and the level of enforcement of lockdown measures. I regret to indicate Japan is no exception.
6 ( +7 / -1 )
Posted in: Japanese gov't plans to seek court order to dissolve Unification Church See in context
Like the old saying: "It's not personal (spiritual) - it's just business (profit)"
1 ( +1 / -0 )
Posted in: Nagoya ordinance prohibits walking on escalators See in context
The escalator industry generally discourages walking on escalators and encourages passengers to stand still while riding them. This is primarily for safety reasons. Escalators are designed with a specific pitch and speed to safely transport passengers from one level to another. Encouraging walking on escalators can lead to safety hazards and accidents, such as tripping, falling, or clothing getting caught in the moving parts. The International Association of Elevator and Escalator Manufacturers (IAEEA) and other industry organizations typically recommend that passengers follow these guidelines.
-3 ( +3 / -6 )
Posted in: Singapore, Zurich world's most expensive cities: EiU
Posted in: Toyota selling part of Denso stake to raise cash to develop electric vehicles
Posted in: 5 reasons why climate change may see more of us turn to alcohol and other drugs
Posted in: China hails 'old friend' Kissinger, architect of rapprochement