Welcome to the latest episode of Japan This Week, where we bring you the top trending news stories from Japan Today. This week, Jeff Richards takes you through the latest updates, including Japan’s new prime minister Shigeru Ishiba, rising prices across the country, expanded alcohol bans in Tokyo’s Shibuya and Shinjuku districts, and the 60th anniversary of Japan’s iconic shinkansen bullet train.
POLITICS: Japan’s New Prime Minister
Shigeru Ishiba takes over as Japan’s prime minister, focusing on security and planning a general election on October 27.
BUSINESS: Rising Prices in Japan
Inflation leads to price hikes for food, drinks, and postal rates, impacting companies like Asahi, Itoen, and Koikeya.
NATIONAL: Tokyo’s Public Drinking Ban
Shibuya and Shinjuku enforce bans on public drinking to curb unruly behavior, with mixed responses from readers.
CRIME: World’s Longest Serving Death Row Inmate
Iwao Hakamada, released after 45 years on death row, considers suing the government for damages due to wrongful conviction.
NATIONAL: Japan’s Bullet Train Anniversary
Celebrating 60 years, the shinkansen remains a symbol of Japanese engineering excellence.
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The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of Japan Today.
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