Rapidus, the company leading Japan's drive to domestically produce next-generation semiconductors, announced on July 18th that it has successfully confirmed the operation of a prototype 2-nanometer chip. (News On Japan)

A massive amount of seaweed has washed ashore on a popular beach in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, turning the shoreline into a green carpet and causing concern just days before the summer swimming season begins. (News On Japan)

Japan’s first new luxury cruise ship in 34 years, the Asuka III, operated by the NYK Group, is 230 meters long and can accommodate up to 744 passengers, and made its inaugural port call at Hakata Port on Monday morning. (News On Japan)

A pod of sperm whales was observed sleeping in an upright position near Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Prefecture, with their heads pointing toward the surface in what appeared to be vertical rest. The sighting was made on June 23rd by Amami Marine Life Research Group chairman Katsuki Okoshi, who captured the rare moment about 15 kilometers west of the island. (News On Japan)