Japan’s Emperor called upon to apologise to South Korea
The relationship between Japan and its neighbour South Korea is in a mess. Politicians from the two countries are still disputing events which date back to the first half of…
China smiles while Japan shows its dark side
When the Chinese stage an official event they want everyone to see their smiling, friendly side. That’s not always true for the Japanese. They’re prepared to present their problems to…
Hitachi Loses Billions as Japan Faces Brexit Fallout
Hitachi and Honda are among the big Japanese companies already being impacted by Britain’s vote to leave the EU. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe came to London to warn against a…
Handcuffed business hero protests his innocence from the dock
One of the most powerful business figures in Japan has appeared in court in handcuffs and wearing plastic slippers. Former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn said “I am innocent of all…
Whale hunters ride a wave of criticism
There’s been a storm of criticism in the media over Japan’s decision to resume commercial whaling. Newspapers and websites claim the decision has no economic or ecological justification. Yet look…
Angry Asian Girls Raise Questions about Art and Pornography
Is it artistic to show pictures of naked women tied by ropes? That question has often been asked about the famous Japanese photographer Araki. He exhibits works at some of…
Japan warns Britain – avoid a no deal Brexit
Japan usually tries not to intervene in the politics of other countries. But Britain’s exit from the EU has big implications for Japanese companies, which have been lobbying politicians in…
Where is Carlos Ghosn and has he been charged with any crime?
All the press in Japan are desperate for more news of what’s going on with the former Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn. The media’s rife with speculation but some of it…
Japan would make the perfect ally if Trump wants to raise the stakes with China
President Trump is feeling confident following the Midterm elections. Although he lost some political support, he’s free to continue his trade battle with China. Japan recognises China as a rival…
Am I too optimistic? Well, the Economist is upbeat, too!
I am a fan of Japan but I also try to maintain a balanced view when it comes to journalism. This week, I was challenged by a reader of my…
Does China need Japan or does Japan need China?
Most of the international media were positive about Prime Minister Abe’s landmark trip to China. But not everyone agrees that it was the Trump factor which brought the Asian rivals…
Japan and China are entering a new stage and it’s all about business
China’s attitude to Japan has changed. Shinzo Abe is receiving the red carpet treatment in Beijing. China and Japan have long been rivals and five years ago their relationship was…
Softbank is tainted by Saudi Arabia’s notorious image
Claims that Saudi Arabia may be behind the murder of a journalist have created a crisis for the Japanese billionaire who runs Softbank. Masayoshi Son is trusted by Saudi princes…
Is Japan being sidelined in the Korean peace negotiations?
After a third meeting between the leaders of North and South Korea and the promise of another Trump-Kim summit soon, why isn’t Japan more involved? Some commentators think Shinzo Abe…
There is a friendly feeling about Japan in China at the moment – and visa versa.
That’s partly because of a record number of visitors from China in Japan, boosting its economy. On the diplomatic front, Japan is avoiding clashes over the history of the war…