In the center of Aomori City, there have been multiple sightings of monkeys. (News On Japan)

Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology has announced plans to transition the National Academic Test, conducted annually for all sixth-grade and third-year junior high school students, to an entirely online format from 2027. The traditional paper-based test will be replaced by computer-based testing. (News On Japan)

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the World Heritage registration of the 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range,' an event was held on July 6 in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture. The event featured participants walking along the stone-paved Kumano Kodo trail illuminated by bamboo lights. (News On Japan)

On July 7, Tanabata, an event will be held in central Osaka where approximately 40,000 LED-lit spheres will be floated down the Okawa River, creating an illusion of the Milky Way. The blue lights will shimmer on the water's surface, evoking a starry night sky. (News On Japan)

The 'Summer Jumbo Lottery' tickets, offering a combined first prize and bonus of 700 million yen, went on sale on July 8. They will be available nationwide until August 8. The first prize of 500 million yen will have 24 winners, and the bonus prize of 100 million yen will have 48 winners. The second prize of 1 million yen will have 2,400 winners. (News On Japan)

The Nagashima Jumbo Sea Water Pool in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, opened its doors on July 6, unveiling one of the world's largest water slides. (News On Japan)

On July 6, a ceremonial ring entering was held at Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya's Atsuta Ward ahead of the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament, which begins on July 14. (News On Japan)

Real wages per worker, which reflect changes in the cost of living, have decreased for a record 26 consecutive months, according to data for May. (News On Japan)

As the yen continues to weaken and prices rise, more people are cutting their summer vacation budgets compared to last year. (News On Japan)

The quintessential Japanese summer beverage, Ramune, is experiencing a surge in popularity overseas. However, a shortage of bottles is hindering production, leaving manufacturers in a difficult situation. (News On Japan)

Koki Kimura, CEO of Mixi, the company behind the globally successful game 'Monster Strike', and known for its expansion into sports and entertainment, reveals the company’s overseas strategy. In the second part of this series, we delve into Mixi’s focus on India, a market where smartphones are indispensable for everyday life, driving high demand for mobile games. (News On Japan)

In the ever-evolving landscape of investments, staying informed and educated is paramount for success. However, for many individuals, the complexities of financial markets can be overwhelming and intimidating. (News On Japan)

Known as the 'Ise Shrine of Tokyo,' Tokyo Daijingu, located in Chiyoda Ward, is famed for its blessings in love and matchmaking. On July 7, Tanabata Day, many visitors, including those dressed in yukata, flocked to the shrine. (News On Japan)

In May, a tragic accident occurred in Tokyo when a 2-year-old girl died after her neck was caught in a car window. This incident raises concerns about the potential dangers of car windows. What precautions should be taken when traveling with children in a car? (News On Japan)

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko has won her third term following Sunday's vote. Koike addressed her supporters and cited various challenges Tokyo is facing, such as soaring prices and the falling birthrate. (News On Japan)

Sony Group has announced its plan to gradually reduce and eventually end the production of Blu-ray discs and other optical discs. (News On Japan)

We're heading to Hachinohe Station in Aomori Prefecture, about 3 hours from Tokyo by bullet train. Today, we'll be staying at a hot spring ryokan themed around a local Japanese festival. (It's Time to Travel)

Over ten individuals sit still in a pool, extending their arms and legs forward, holding their breath. Dressed in wetsuits, they all keep their eyes open. (News On Japan)

A bear poster created by Akita Prefecture, Japan's northern prefecture that had the highest number of human casualties in 2023, is causing a stir for being 'too cute.' (News On Japan)

The Tokyo gubernatorial election, with voting on July 7, has sparked a debate over the 'Senkyo-Wari' campaign, which offers discounts and services at participating stores upon presenting a voting certificate, aimed at boosting voter turnout. Approximately 250 establishments, including ramen shops, cafes, and beauty salons, are participating in Tokyo. (News On Japan)