Japan’s external agency under the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications
Tokyo is debating allowing shorts in offices as part of the Cool Biz drive to beat heat and cut energy use; opinions are divided, with concerns about gender fairness and leg hair etiquette. A June Gorilla Clinic survey shows both support and opposition among workers, amid rising summer heat and energy costs.
Tokyo has introduced a policy allowing shorts, t-shirts, and trainers as part of its summer work attire under the "Tokyo Cool Biz" initiative. The change aims to cope with extreme heat while curbing energy use, though reviews are divided—some applaud comfort, others raise concerns about fairness and legibility of dress codes.
A powerful earthquake on Kyushu’s Kumamoto prefecture has injured dozens and damaged infrastructure. A mall explosion is being investigated. Authorities have ordered evacuation centres for around 300,000 residents and are monitoring aftershocks.
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake strikes Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, knocking out power for tens of thousands, suspending rail services, and prompting tsunami warnings. Authorities report injuries and structural damage as emergency responses unfold and assessments continue.
A magnitude-7.1 earthquake in Kumamoto has disrupted semiconductor and automotive production, prompting shutdowns at major plants, evacuations, and widespread power and transportation outages. Authorities report casualties and ongoing aftershocks as emergency services coordinate rescue and stabilization efforts.
Three female lions die at Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo amid a record heatwave. Ten lions have fallen ill since mid-July, and staff are treating several others while air-conditioned enclosures and cooling measures are being deployed.
Typhoon Dujuan has delivered strong winds and heavy rainfall across Japan, prompting evacuations and widespread disruption. Authorities warn of ongoing rain and possible landslides as the storm moves northeast, with major events cancelled and flight schedules disrupted.