Starring 䋝田圭亮, known as ODAKEi and hugely popular on social media! Stage production 『いつかアイツに会いに行く-BEYOND THE MOON-』 to run in succession in Shinjuku and Ginza in September!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Summary not yet available
Facts
From Sept. 3 (Thu.), 2026, at Kinokuniya Southern Theatre TAKASHIMAYA in Shinjuku
From Sept. 11 (Fri.) at Hakuhinkan Theatre in Ginza
Veteran actors including Keiko Matsuzaka, Makita Sports, Ema Maeno and Toshifumi Muramatsu set to appear in ABEMA original drama “The Rules of Vacation”! Keiko Matsuzaka plays the “stylish and kind” late grandmother of Midori (Kanna Hashimoto) and Kinta (Ryo Katsuchi).
A new autumn food festival is coming to Sapporo. A dinner buffet featuring 26 dishes prepared with “aging × fermentation × smoking” to bring out the ingredients’ umami, paired with drinks, will be held for the first time for 3 days only during Silver Week!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Summary not yet available
Facts
¥500 off adult admission
Adults: 5,500 yen
Age 65 and over: ¥4,800
Elementary school students: 2,000 yen
Ages 3–5: ¥1,250
Original＋1,000円でビール2種・カクテル2種の飲み放題付きに変更が可能です
Adding fruit and aging it for 10 days gives it a mellow flavor.
A seminar titled “A New Industry Landscape for the 6G Era,” featuring Yuya Horiguchi and Mamoru Yoneshige of アクセンチュア（株）’s Industry & Enterprise Division, will be held on Aug. 25 (Tue.), 2026!
A deep dive into school dramas such as 『3年B組金八先生』 and 『GTO』! “We Want to Talk About Dramas!” from the Yoshimoto Drama Club streams on YouTube Thursday, July 16.
“MEO Dashboard byGMO” wins the top “Leader” award in the MEO category of the “ITreview Grid Award 2026 Summer” for a record 21 consecutive terms [GMO TECH]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Summary not yet available
Facts
“Leader” award in the MEO category for 21 consecutive terms
Also earns its 15th “Leader” award in the SNS management category
Monthly users of “AI Overviews” surpass 2 billion
Monthly active users of “AI Mode” also top 1 billion
Capital: ¥100 million (as of the end of December 2025)
[Series tops 750,000 copies] New titles join the “University Entrance Exam Movie Study” series, which combines reference books and lesson videos: “Reading Classical Chinese” by teacher Rina Okamoto and “Public Affairs, Politics and Economics” by teacher Shunsuke!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Summary not yet available
Facts
Learn to read classical Chinese in just 4 hours
Learn public affairs, politics and economics in just 9 hours
[New method] Could rubbing or tapping a painful area make it worse? An acupuncturist who has helped a total of 50,000 people with chronic pain reveals simple self-care that targets persistent pain by doing nothing more than “pinching the skin”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Summary not yet available
Facts
List price: 1,760 yen (base price 1,600 yen + tax)
For modern people pushing themselves to the limit: drummer Ayaka Yamanaka, who successfully performed at arena shows for audiences of 10,000, shares the survival strategy she arrived at after grueling exhaustion: “separating work for a living from work that gives life meaning”!
An online lottery is here to celebrate the release of volume 7 of “また殺されてしまったのですね、探偵様”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To celebrate the release of volume 7 of “また殺されてしまったのですね、探偵様,” KADOKAWA has launched a lottery for exclusive merchandise through its online lottery service “くじ引き堂.” A campaign fans won’t want to miss.
An online lottery is coming from the TV anime “対ありでした。～お嬢さまは格闘ゲームなんてしない～”! A lineup of luxurious prizes featuring newly drawn illustrations‼
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KADOKAWA-operated “くじ引き堂” will launch an online lottery tied to the TV anime “対ありでした。” on July 23, 2026. The lottery will feature numerous luxurious prizes using newly drawn illustrations, aiming to strengthen engagement with fans.
The official puzzle game “Oshi no Ko Puzzle Star” launches a new featured gacha, [Summer Splash], today! Ai and Ruby appear in the first release.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
KADOKAWA and NHN will hold a new featured gacha, [Summer Splash], in “Oshi no Ko Puzzle Star” starting July 16, 2026. Ai and Ruby appear in the first release, along with limited outfits and event rewards.
Explore Okayama by public transport with Hello Kitty! A stamp rally, bus-stop photo spots and limited-edition tickets connecting to Shodoshima will launch in stages starting July 20.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Ryobi Group is teaming up with Hello Kitty to launch a stamp rally and limited-edition tickets using public transport in Okayama starting July 20, 2026. The initiative aims to revitalize the region and promote tourism.
[Koshigaya, Saitama Prefecture] A re-audition for local VTuber Asagi Ruma is underway from July 7, seeking a new cast member ahead of a debut in 2026.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Local VTuber Asagi Ruma in Koshigaya has launched a second audition ahead of a debut in 2026. The project aims to showcase the region’s appeal and develop the IP over the long term.
Changing the rules of seafood rice bowls. The star is not tuna, but “shellfish.” A new local specialty is born in Kawasaki.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kawasaki seafood bowl restaurant THE漁師DON has launched a new series putting shellfish at center stage. Its strategy of keeping costs down through its sourcing capabilities and offering bowls starting at 500 yen has paid off, accounting for 13% of sales shortly after launch.
WACCA Ikebukuro × ZETT to hold a physical fitness assessment for youth baseball players
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
WACCA Ikebukuro and ZETT will hold a physical fitness assessment for youth baseball players in August 2026. A former professional baseball player will take part as a guest, and the assessment will provide guidance for future training by quantifying physical abilities.
[Louis Vuitton] Unveils new pocket watch “Escale en Alaska”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Louis Vuitton has unveiled “Escale en Alaska,” a new pocket watch inspired by Alaska’s Margerie Glacier. Featuring 9 animations and 17 moving parts, the masterpiece has the most complex mechanism ever created by the brand’s own atelier.
eMotion Fleet begins partnership with キューヘン to expand EV charging solutions in Kyushu
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
eMotion Fleet and キューヘン have partnered to expand business-focused EV charging solutions in Kyushu. Peak shaving and load shifting functions will optimize energy costs and accelerate the adoption of commercial EVs.
CML株式会社 | Directs a “花西子FLORASIS” pop-up at ShinQs Beauty Palette Minami-machida store —
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
花西子FLORASIS is holding a pop-up event at the ShinQs Beauty Palette Minami-machida store. CML株式会社 is directing the event, which offers special promotions during its run.
“Musclemen × Care Workers” VISIONARY Inc. announces the first group of companies making offers and teams entering the company-team competition for the “muscle recruitment” contest [APF × VISIONARY], adopted by ７割 of participating companies the previous year; 2 competitions to be held in summer 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
VISIONARY and fitness organization APF will hold fitness contests themed around “muscle recruitment” in Tokyo and Aichi in summer 2026. The previous event led to recruitment at 70% of participating companies, making it a notable venue for talent matching.
Nagoya University of Commerce and Business student returns after completing exchange program at 香港中文大学
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A student from Nagoya University of Commerce and Business has returned after completing an exchange program of about 9 months at 香港中文大学. The student’s achievements in developing international competencies through practical learning highlight the effectiveness of the university’s global education.
DYM Scout runs transit ads on 5 metropolitan-area rail lines. Ads appear on the Odakyu, Keio, Toei Mita, Toei Shinjuku and Sotetsu lines to raise awareness of its direct recruiting service for students.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DYM-operated “DYM Scout” has launched transit advertising across 5 metropolitan-area rail lines to raise awareness among students. The campaign strengthens the service’s value as a new-graduate recruitment support platform.
Koenavi aims to build “food infrastructure” for Muslim visitors to Japan. It launches “Halal Food Maps,” a mutual-referral map where restaurants send customers to one another!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Koenavi has released “Halal Food Maps,” a restaurant search map for Muslim visitors to Japan. Its features include specialized information, mutual referrals and comprehensive coverage, addressing inbound tourism demand.
Protecting older people without family support through record-breaking heat! A “Extreme Heat Countermeasures Campaign” with no monthly fee starts July 16
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社セカンドライフパートナーズ will launch a first-month-free campaign for “みまもり365” starting July 16, 2026, to protect older people living alone during the summer. The integrated service combines AI and identity-guarantee services to prevent social isolation.
[岡山大学] Vice President Atsufumi Yokoi discusses climate change education at a session of an international conference hosted by the United Nations University and ユネスコ
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
岡山大学 Vice President Yokoi discussed climate change education at an international conference hosted by the United Nations University and ユネスコ, sharing Japan’s leadership in education as Asia’s first ESD UNESCO Chair.
Nikkei Asia: Taiwan develops homegrown generative AI to counter China’s influence through content
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan has developed its own generative AI, “TAIDE,” to counter the influence of Chinese AI content. The strategic initiative aims to protect linguistic and cultural autonomy.
University professor stabs brother-in-law to death; music school suspends operations until 7/24
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A professor at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University killed a brother-in-law who managed a music school in Hsinchu City. The school is closed through July 24. The motive is unknown.
Preventing heatstroke during outdoor work: Doctor warns of emergency signs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 60-year-old man in Changhua, Taiwan, suffered heatstroke after working outdoors. The hospital warned that when body temperature exceeds 40 degrees, the fatality rate is over 30%. Doctors urged high-risk groups to take precautions against heat and know how to respond in an emergency.
Shih Kuang-yang military service case: Interior Ministry has asked Taoyuan City Government to look into it, will not comment on individual cases
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taoyuan City council candidate Shih Kuang-yang has come under scrutiny for not serving in the military due to being overweight. The Interior Ministry has asked the Taoyuan City Government to look into the matter but will not comment on individual cases. The case has drawn public attention to fairness in military service.
Finance Ministry: Qing’an 3.0 will strengthen risk controls; eligibility limited to at most 160,000 people
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Finance Ministry announced the Qing’an 3.0 mortgage policy, adding age, home-price and income restrictions. It will take effect on August 1, with up to 160,000 people estimated to qualify. The move strengthens risk controls and focuses resources more closely on young people and families with children.
President: Caring for veterans is the government’s unquestionable responsibility; better services to be provided
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Veterans Affairs Council has launched the “安心御老平台” platform, digitizing comprehensive care for veterans (榮民). The president also attended, emphasizing the government’s responsibility.
Hong Kong independent bookstore raided; Presidential Office voices support for those defending democracy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An independent bookstore in Hong Kong was searched by authorities, and people connected to it were detained. In response, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te and the Presidential Office expressed their commitment to protecting freedom of speech and solidarity with those who support democracy. This is an important political message grounded in Taiwan’s democratic experience.
More than 500 missing after 2 shipwrecks off Myanmar; UN warns most are Rohingya
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
2 refugee boats capsized off Myanmar, leaving more than 500 people missing. Many passengers were Rohingya, and a UN agency warned that there may be no survivors. Concerns are growing over the humanitarian crisis.
Dolly IP animation and comic collaboration brings voice actors together at the comic expo
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
文化内容促進院 announced that it will hold a tie-in event for the anime “ようこそドリー・ハウスへ” and manga “ドリー DOLLY” at the 2026 Comic Expo. Main cast members will appear, with the aim of strengthening collaboration among Taiwan’s IP content creators.
Starmer visits Ukraine, stresses UK support will not end when he leaves office
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Ukraine and met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stressing that UK support for Ukraine will not end with a change of government and underscoring the importance of a long-term commitment.
Association says 15 principals died over 5 years; calls for clear division of responsibilities to prevent prolonged overwork
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Association of Elementary and Junior High School Principals announced that 15 principals have died while in office over the past 5 years. It called on the government to strengthen administrative support and establish a specialist organization to prevent overwork.
President: Taiwan cannot be blamed for cross-strait tensions simply because it refuses Communist Party rule
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s president emphasized that Taiwan is resisting to defend democracy amid pressure from China, and said the government would advance measures for a super-aged society and digitize support for veterans.
The Legislative Yuan’s initial review of amendments to the Assisted Reproduction Act saw the Democratic Progressive Party push to separate provisions on surrogacy, which passed in a vote and prompted protests from the Taiwan People’s Party. The move affects discussions about the rights of families facing infertility and women.
U.S. announces 25% tariffs on some Brazilian goods; Lula denounces move
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The United States announced an additional 25% tariff on Brazilian products, drawing a rebuke from Brazilian President Lula. The trade dispute has become a focus of international attention.
Executive Yuan approves increased administrative subsidies for labor, farmers’ and national health insurance, to take effect in 116
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Executive Yuan will increase subsidies for administrative work related to labor insurance, farmers’ insurance and health insurance for vocational unions and farmers’ and fishers’ associations starting in year 116. The move will help maintain services in the face of rising costs.
Nantou’s Dongpu community joins Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency to remove illegal traps and protect wildlife
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Bunun community of Dongpu in Nantou County and the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency worked together to remove illegal hunting traps. The effort aims to protect biodiversity and respect Indigenous culture, while also improving community safety.
Taiwan pioneers in-situ microscopic semiconductor inspection technology, aims to help industry accelerate verification
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Taiwanese team has pioneered in-situ cross-sectional scanning microscopy for semiconductor inspection, overcoming the past limitation of relying solely on theoretical simulations for estimates. The technology offers industry a more accurate way to assess component contact quality, with the aim of shortening the verification cycle from research and development to process integration.
US military launches first airstrikes on northern Iran in recent days; explosions reported around Tehran
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. military carried out its first airstrikes in northern Iran, with explosions reported in Semnan Province and near Tehran. Iran retaliated with a drone attack on a U.S. military facility in Jordan. Military tensions in the Middle East are escalating sharply.
Taiwan dollar rises 1.1 cents at midday, provisionally closing at 32.178
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taiwan dollar rose 1.1 cents against the US dollar at midday to 32.178, with trading volume reaching US$642 million. This is a routine exchange-rate movement in the Taipei foreign exchange market, reflecting regional and global capital flows. It is an important indicator for Taiwan's export-oriented economy.
Chen Hsiu-pao concerned over opposition proposal to cut media promotion budget; Lee Yuan hopes for dialogue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
DPP Legislator Chen Hsiu-pao and Culture Minister Lee Yuan expressed concern over the opposition's proposal to eliminate the entire media promotion budget. Lee stressed that the budget is used to market international cultural events and is not simply for publicity, and said he hopes to discuss the items individually to preserve the funding.
As fighting reignites, Trump says Iran's release of US woman is a gesture of goodwill
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Trump announced the release of an American woman who had been unjustly detained in Iran and praised Iran’s goodwill. She had been detained while working on nonprofit activities and is safely on her way home.
Graham championed Russia sanctions bill before his death; US senators hope to expedite its passage
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Following the death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, momentum has accelerated behind the Russia sanctions bill he championed. The bill would impose high tariffs on major importers, including China and India, and is expected to pass Congress.
Wang Huning meets senior North Korean official to discuss strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the 2 countries
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Chairman Wang Huning visited North Korea and met with Zhao Yongyuan. They agreed to strengthen cooperation under the China-North Korea Friendship Treaty and affirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties.
Taipei Metro tests replacing turnstile barriers with red and green lights; Taipei Main Station joins pilot
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei Metro is piloting the replacement of traditional turnstile barriers with red and green lights at Taipei Main Station, allowing passengers to intuitively determine whether they may pass. The move improves passenger flow and strengthens fare evasion prevention; the system may be expanded depending on the results.
Chiayi man falls behind on traffic fines; mother guarantees payment to help son clear debt of more than NT$110,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Zhuang from Chiayi had accumulated more than 110,000 yen in unpaid traffic fines. His mother acted as guarantor, enabling him to pay in installments. Her sense of responsibility and legal awareness were praised, and the fines were paid in full.
Ministry of Transportation and Communications to invest NT$673.8 billion in airport upgrades, aiming for 100 million international passengers by 2045
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications plans to invest NT$673.8 billion by 2045 to upgrade 17 civilian airports nationwide, with the goal of serving 100 million international passengers. The plan aims to strengthen the country’s airport competitiveness and transport resilience.
China and North Korea exchange visits frequently; Wang Huning heads to Pyongyang for talks on deepening ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Wang Huning of the Chinese Communist Party visited North Korea, and the two countries agreed to strengthen ties on the 65th anniversary of the China-North Korea Friendship Treaty. The focus is on strategic cooperation and expanding collaboration in economic and cultural fields.
JR West to raise fares across the board within 5 years, first such increase since privatization
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
JR West announced that it will raise fares across all its lines within 5 years. It will be the first fare increase across the entire network since privatization in 1987, driven by capital investment and inflation. The move is expected to have a major impact on the railway industry.
Shen Po-yang unveils sports policy platform; Chiang Wan-an says all good ideas will be considered
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Shen Boyang, the Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate for Taipei mayor, announced his sports policy. Mayor Chiang Wan-an outlined existing initiatives and said he would consider good suggestions. The policy details and direction of city governance are drawing attention.
Executive Yuan approves Youth Housing Loan 3.0 to support marriage and childbirth; Taipei home-price cap highest at NT$35 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's Executive Yuan has approved the Youth Housing Loan 3.0 home-purchase loan program, which will take effect on August 1 for 6 years. It adds age, home-price and asset limits, phases out interest subsidies, and raises loan limits for families with children to ease housing costs.
Wildfire smoke sends Toronto's air quality to worst in the world for a time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Air quality in Toronto, Canada, briefly deteriorated to among the worst in the world because of wildfire smoke from the north. A health alert was issued, and the smoke also affected the northeastern United States, raising public health risks.
Former Taichung City Councilor Ran Lingxuan’s 4-year prison sentence for embezzling aide funds finalized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former KMT Taichung City Councilor Ran Lingxuan was sentenced to 4 years in prison for fraudulently claiming more than NT$1.48 million in aide fees and misusing public funds for Buddhist ceremonies and cleaning a Buddhist hall. The case highlights gaps in oversight of local political funds and serves as a judicial warning.
矽科宏晟 opens Arizona plant, advancing into North American semiconductor supply chain
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese chemical supply systems maker 矽科宏晟 opened a new plant in Phoenix, Arizona, strengthening its push into the North American semiconductor supply chain. The move will enable immediate technical support for advanced processes at 2 nanometers and below.
National Development Council approves 378.9 billion in major public construction funding for 116, a nearly 10-year high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s National Development Council approved a budget ceiling of NT$378.97 billion for major public construction projects in fiscal 2027, the highest level in the past 10 years. Transportation and the environment are the main investment areas, with the aim of promoting economic development and improving quality of life.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor released the latest statistics on reduced-hours work. The number of affected companies and workers declined, and more than 80% of workers are eligible for wage-difference subsidies. The figures are an important indicator of economic trends and employment stability.
Li Yuan clarifies “disaster” remark, says decisions to establish Taiwan Creative Content Agency and Taiwan Plus were right
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan Culture Minister Li Yuan clarified her remark that “Taiwan Plus is a disaster,” stressing that the decisions to establish the Taiwan Creative Content Agency and Taiwan Plus were correct. The issue involves the use of government resources and international communications policy, prompting questions in the Legislative Yuan and discussion of political accountability.