Japan, known as one of the world’s longest-living nations, is seeing its elderly population continue to grow, with people aged 65 and older now accounting for a record 29.3 percent of the population, an increase of around 20,000 from the previous year. (News On Japan)

More people are struggling with what to do about family graves, as the number of people choosing to close ancestral burial plots continues to rise across Japan. (News On Japan)

According to population estimates released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications on January 1, the number of 18-year-olds reaching adulthood this year stands at 1.09 million, the second-lowest figure since records began in 1968. (News On Japan)

The Imperial Family welcomed the New Year on January 1, with the Emperor releasing a message through the Imperial Household Agency expressing his hopes that the year ahead will be one in which people in Japan and around the world can move forward with hope. (News On Japan)

On the morning of January 1, people across Japan gathered to witness the first sunrise of the new year, offering prayers and reflections as the country welcomed 2026. From the iconic “Diamond Fuji,” where the rising sun aligns perfectly with the peak of Mount Fuji, to panoramic views from Tokyo Skytree, scenes of quiet celebration unfolded nationwide. (News On Japan)

Nearly three decades after the end of World War II, one man finally returned to Japan. He was Hiroo Onoda, known as the last Japanese soldier, who had remained hidden in the jungles of the Philippines for 29 years after the war ended. (News On Japan)

Three men broke into a card shop in Tokyo’s Toshima Ward on the night of December 31, stealing Pokemon cards and other items worth about 30 million yen before fleeing the scene, according to police. (News On Japan)

More than 20 million Americans are preparing for steeper healthcare costs in the New Year because of expiring subsidies.

Dr Dirk Brandherm and his colleagues have identified more than 600 suspected house platforms in the Brusselstown Ring.

To succeed in office he will need to keep his supporters engaged with day-to-day governing, experts say.