Travel

Sapporo Launches Contactless Subway Trial

SAPPORO, Apr 11 (News On Japan) - Sapporo City announced on April 9th that it will begin a trial of contactless payment on the subway, allowing passengers to pass through ticket gates using credit cards or smartphones.

Starting with the first train on April 26th, one ticket gate equipped with a dedicated contactless reader will be installed at every subway station across the city. The system will accept credit cards and smartphones, aiming to improve convenience for riders and alleviate congestion caused by overtourism.

Mayor Akimoto said during a press conference on April 9th, "With many people coming to Sapporo from both Japan and abroad, I believe this will make the subway more accessible for a wide range of users."

The city plans to collect data on usage and effectiveness, with the goal of introducing the system fully in or after fiscal 2026. It is also considering expanding the system to the city’s streetcars.

Source: HBCニュース　北海道放送

Another Nuclear Plant Wins Safety Approval, Eyes 2027 Restart

The Nuclear Regulation Authority approved a draft review on April 30th confirming that safety measures at Hokkaido Electric Power’s Tomari Nuclear Power Plant Unit 3 comply with the country’s updated safety standards. This effectively clears the unit for restart, making it the 18th reactor at 11 nuclear plants nationwide to pass the review under the new regulatory framework.

Mayor Expresses Shock as Shirahama’s Pandas to Return to China

The entire population of pandas at Adventure World in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, is being returned to China, delivering a major blow to both the mayor and residents. The emotional and economic impact is significant.

Rules Tightened for Parental Leave Benefits

The rules surrounding benefits for parents on childcare leave were tightened in April due to concerns over the practice known as 'aiming to miss nursery placement.'

Last Chance to See Hokkaido’s Fabled Bridge as Collapse Looms

The "phantom bridge," a Hokkaido heritage site in the Tokachi region known for appearing and disappearing with the seasons, has begun drawing visitors again in 2025 as its elusive form grows increasingly fragile.

Japanese Skater Tomono Debuts New Routine for Next Winter Olympics

Kazuki Tomono of Daiichi Juken Group performed his new short program for the upcoming season targeting the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics during the Prince Ice World show held in Yokohama on April 26th.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Tokyo Disneyland Unveils Plan for New Space Mountain

Oriental Land, which operates Tokyo Disney Resort, has announced plans to renovate several areas, including the launch of a new Space Mountain.

Japan's Popular Tourist Destinations Adapt to Avoid Overtourism

Tourism surged with the start of Golden Week, with some people venturing out and others staying put. Among them is a story of transformation: in Hakuba, once a quiet summer destination with few visitors, local players have successfully turned it into a bustling hotspot.

The Hidden Okinawa – A Quiet Journey Through Ruins and Beaches

Japan's southern island chain -Okinawa is a unique destination for travelers that you can enjoy both cultural depth and amazing nature. In this video, I explore quiet ruins and beaches, and a town of Koza that post war history remains. (Tokyo Kenchan)