Maebashi Mayor Akira Ogawa announced his decision to remain in office during an emergency press conference held on October 17th at 3:30 p.m., following public criticism over a scandal involving a meeting with a married city employee at a hotel. (News On Japan)

The wholesale price of rice traded between businesses is expected to reach an unprecedented level of over 36,000 yen per 60 kilograms despite a bumper harvest this year, according to interviews conducted by JNN, highlighting the intense competition among buyers and the distorted dynamics of Japan’s rice market. (News On Japan)

A violent attack early on October 20th in Ibaraki Town, Ibaraki Prefecture left one man dead and another injured after they were stabbed with what appeared to be a bladed weapon inside an apartment. Police are investigating the case as a murder. (News On Japan)

A woman in her 40s suffered a serious injury after being trapped in a mechanical parking system in Tokyo’s Shinagawa Ward on October 19th. (News On Japan)

Dragging heavy suitcases up and down stairs and through unfamiliar places is probably not what you had in mind for your Japan trip - that's where luggage storage and delivery come in. A safe and convenient alternative, these services allow you to ditch those bags and have your best Japan holiday. (Japan Guide)

Former Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama, who served as Japan's 81st prime minister and led the country through major events including the 1995 Kobe earthquake, passed away on the morning of July 14th at a hospital in Oita City. He was 101 years old. (News On Japan)