Travel

Grand Finale for Osaka Expo

OSAKA, Oct 14 (News On Japan) - The Osaka-Kansai Expo, which ran for six months, came to a close on October 13, drawing large crowds eager to witness its final moments. A closing ceremony was held on the last day, during which the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) flag was handed over to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, host of the 2030 World Expo.

By the day before the closing, total attendance had reached 25.29 million visitors, a figure that reflected the sustained enthusiasm surrounding the event throughout its run.

Finale events were held across the venue, with visitors spending the last hours enjoying exhibitions, performances, and shared experiences. As the clock struck 10 p.m., marking the official end of the Expo, the atmosphere was filled with heartfelt messages from attendees.

Source: TBS

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.

Kamiya Faces Takaichi in First Diet Debate Over Foreign Worker Policy

In the House of Councillors on November 6th, Prime Minister Takaichi faced her first major challenge from Sanseito leader Sohei Kamiya, who took the podium for the first time to question the government’s stance on accepting foreign workers.

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