The animated historical series Kings and Generals continues its in-depth exploration of Japanese history with a new series focused on the Sengoku Jidai period. (Kings and Generals)

The India Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo opened on May 1st, marking its debut 18 days after the international event began on April 13th. (News On Japan)

A burst water pipe beneath National Route 1 in central Kyoto early on April 30th caused a road collapse that flooded surrounding streets and vehicles, triggering widespread disruption. (News On Japan)

Two women, a 54-year-old mother and her 26-year-old daughter from Kasukabe City in Saitama Prefecture, have been referred to prosecutors by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police for allegedly selling nail parts resembling the logos of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton without authorization. (News On Japan)

At the White House, President Donald Trump brought together corporate executives, including SoftBank Group Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son, to highlight major investment commitments made in the United States—presenting them as a direct result of his administration's efforts. (News On Japan)

Shizuoka Governor Heita Suzuki announced on April 30th that the prefecture will implement its “Cool Biz” dress code throughout the year starting in May 2025. Previously limited to the warmer months from May through October, the initiative encourages relaxed attire for government workers, such as going without neckties, to create a more comfortable working environment. (News On Japan)

The Tokaido Shinkansen resumed service at 7:00 p.m. on April 30th after a power outage forced a suspension of operations, but major delays continued to affect the timetable. (News On Japan)

During Golden Week, major sightseeing spots across Japan are expected to see heavy crowds, but in the Shumokucho district of Higashi Ward, Nagoya, visitors can quietly enjoy a retro atmosphere reminiscent of the Taisho era. (News On Japan)

Two men were stabbed early Wednesday morning in Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture, leaving one dead in what police believe was a dispute over a restaurant bill. (News On Japan)

Vietnam’s national pavilion finally opened on April 30th -- 17 days behind schedule -- after delays in exhibit preparations kept it closed during the April 13th launch of the Osaka-Kansai Expo. (News On Japan)

The Nuclear Regulation Authority approved a draft review on April 30th confirming that safety measures at Hokkaido Electric Power’s Tomari Nuclear Power Plant Unit 3 comply with the country’s updated safety standards. This effectively clears the unit for restart, making it the 18th reactor at 11 nuclear plants nationwide to pass the review under the new regulatory framework. (News On Japan)

The Bank of Japan is expected to keep its policy rate unchanged at the meeting starting today, as it takes time to assess the impact of the evolving U.S. tariff policy under Donald Trump. (News On Japan)

Toyota has announced that it has reached a basic agreement with Waymo, the autonomous driving division under Google's parent company, to move toward a new partnership. (News On Japan)

The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan has submitted a bill to allow married couples the option of keeping separate surnames, but the initiative has little momentum in the current Diet session due to a lack of support from other parties. (News On Japan)

A small aircraft made an emergency landing in a lake in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture on April 29th, leaving one man seriously injured and another with minor injuries. (News On Japan)

The Naha District Public Prosecutors Office has indicted a 27-year-old U.S. Marine on charges of non-consensual sexual intercourse and assault after he allegedly attacked a woman inside a toilet cubicle at a U.S. military base in Okinawa. (News On Japan)

The entire population of pandas at Adventure World in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, is being returned to China, delivering a major blow to both the mayor and residents. The emotional and economic impact is significant. (News On Japan)

The annual Whale Memorial Service was held in Taiji Town, Wakayama Prefecture, known as a whaling town, to express gratitude for whales that have long contributed to Japan's food culture. (News On Japan)

Vegetables that were destined for disposal are being given a new purpose as crayons that retain their natural colors and even a faint trace of their original scent. (News On Japan)

A growing number of cases have been reported in which individuals offering to transfer cats for free on social media platforms demand payments, leading to suspicions of fraud. (News On Japan)