Japan’s stock market extended its rally as election-related buying and a weaker yen pushed the Nikkei Average to a record close above the 54,000 mark for the first time. (News On Japan)

JR East and Japan Airlines have launched a joint logistics service that relays cargo between bullet trains and aircraft, aiming to shorten transport times for fresh products. (News On Japan)

For more than three decades, Shinsaibashi OPA, long regarded as a landmark in Osaka’s Minami district, closed its doors on January 12th, bringing an end to 31 years of history. (News On Japan)

As mass production and mass consumption continue to drive the disposal of some 560,000 tons of clothing each year, there is growing urgency to reduce waste and build systems that circulate garments as reusable resources rather than discards. (News On Japan)

The Wall Street Journal reported on January 8th, citing two Chinese exporters, that the Chinese government has started imposing limits on shipments of rare earths and related materials bound for Japan. (News On Japan)