As the end of the year approaches, companies across Japan are scaling back on traditional calendar giveaways, with major airlines such as JAL and ANA joining a growing list of firms ending long-standing distribution programs even as demand among some consumers remains strong. (News On Japan)

A series of graffiti markings discovered along the shores of Lake Biwa has drawn sharp criticism from local residents after damage was found on a site long regarded as one of Japan’s Three Famous Bridges, adding to a growing number of defacements occurring at renowned destinations across the country. (News On Japan)

The Pentagon said three other service members were injured in the attack, during which the gunman was "engaged and killed".

In Kyoto’s Gion district, the annual ritual known as Kotohajime, when preparations for the New Year formally begin, took place on December 13th as geiko and maiko visited their teachers to offer thanks for the past year and convey greetings for the year ahead. (News On Japan)

The recent Washington Accord was hailed as "historic" by the US president but the fighting continues.

Four people were killed and multiple passers-by injured in the strike, an official from Gaza's Hamas-run civil defence agency told the BBC.