Society

Host Clubs Face Crackdown on 'Love String' Tactics

TOKYO, Jun 14 (News On Japan) - Police have conducted a large-scale inspection of host clubs in Osaka ahead of the enforcement of a revised adult entertainment business law that strengthens regulations and penalties against malicious practices.

Under the revised law, if hosts attempt to exploit customers' romantic feelings by saying things like "if you don't order, you won't be able to see me," and thereby induce them to purchase food and drinks, such so-called "romantic sales tactics" will be subject to administrative penalties, including business suspensions.

Additionally, if customers who cannot pay their bills are forced into prostitution or compelled to work at adult entertainment establishments to repay debts, criminal penalties will be imposed.

The revised law will come into effect on June 28.

Source: YOMIURI

Tsunami Advisory Issued for Iwate After M6.7 Earthquake Off Sanriku Coast

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck off the Sanriku coast at around 5:03 p.m. on November 9th, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for Iwate Prefecture at 5:12 p.m. Authorities warned that tsunami waves may have already reached coastal areas.

Niseko Tourism Surge Drives Land Frenzy

The Niseko area at the foot of Mount Yotei, about a two-hour drive from Sapporo, is now in the spotlight once again as one of Japan’s top resort destinations prepares for the peak ski season. Fueled by surging inbound demand, construction of hotels and leisure facilities is rapidly expanding across the region—but local residents are increasingly alarmed by the rise in illegal land development and unauthorized building extensions.

Takaichi Launches Into First Major Diet Battle After 3 a.m. Study Session

The Budget Committee of the House of Representatives opened on November 7th, with Prime Minister Takaichi facing her first full-scale debate since taking office.

Aluminum Balloon Causes Sapporo Subway Blackout

A power outage that halted operations on the Sapporo Municipal Subway on November 3rd was caused by an aluminum-coated balloon. Investigations have revealed that similar troubles have occurred across various transportation systems in Japan.

Rifles Approved for Bear Culling

The National Police Agency announced on November 6th that it has revised the National Public Safety Commission regulations to allow police officers to use rifles for bear control. The amendment will take effect on November 13th.

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