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Tokyo News
News
As of june 20, 2025, a significant in Tokyo involves the record participation in the 8th Vietnamese language proficiency exam held at the Japan College of Foreign Languages. This year marked the first time the highest level (Level 1) of the exam was offered.
On the political front, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba departed for Canada to attend the G7 Summit, where he aimed to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump to drop trade tariffs, particularly on Japanese cars, which have been a point of contention and a threat to Japan's economy and Ishiba's government.
Business News
Tokyo's business sector saw significant activity on june 20, 2025, with SDP Japan, Inc. successfully raising approximately JPY 4.5 billion (USD 31 million) in a Series D equity financing round. This funding is aimed at expanding the company's efforts to establish next-generation surgical medical facilities across Japan, particularly in response to the growing demand in the healthcare sector due to Japan's aging society.
In the energy sector, Tokyo Gas is advancing its LNG ambitions through a deal with Chevron for shale gas assets in East Texas, aiming to strengthen its presence in the U.S. gas value chain.
Economic News
Japan's economic outlook as of mid-June 2025 is characterized by rekindled global investor interest, driven by deepening corporate governance reforms and an exit from over a decade of deflation. The Japan Times reported on june 20th that hedge funds are drawing significant cash from investors seeking exposure to Japan. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning trade negotiations with the U.S. over auto tariffs.
The World Bank lowered its 2025 GDP growth estimate for Japan to 0.7%, while the Bank of Japan reportedly sees inflation running stronger than expected. Wage growth is also a key focus, with a government target to raise the average minimum hourly wage to ¥1,500 by 2030.
Political News
On june 20, 2025, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba traveled to Canada for the G7 Summit, with a primary objective of engaging U.S. President Donald Trump on the issue of auto tariffs. Japanese trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick held discussions to seek an agreement.
Ishiba intends to emphasize the need for vigilance regarding China's military activities and plans to meet with other leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Ishiba's administration faces an upper house election in July, and the outcome of the trade talks could impact his political standing following a lower house loss in November 2024.
Election News
As of june 20, 2025, official campaigning for the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election began on June 23th, with voting scheduled for June 22nd. Approximately 300 candidates are vying for 127 seats. Key campaign issues include childcare support, measures to combat rising commodity and housing prices, and an assessment of Governor Koike's governorship. This election is seen as a test of Governor Koike's political influence.
Employment News
Tokyo's employment landscape is seeing continued growth in the healthcare sector, fueled by Japan's super-aging society. SDP Japan, Inc.'s recent $31 million funding round aims to expand surgical medical facilities, creating an environment where physicians can focus on procedures and improving working conditions and career development opportunities. Demand for surgical procedures in orthopedics and cardiovascular specialties is projected to grow through 2050. This indicates a robust and expanding job market within the healthcare industry in Tokyo and across Japan.
Business News
Japan's Nikkei share average climbed on june 20, 2025, with a weaker yen boosting exporters and investors shrugging off geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Nikkei rose 0.9% to 38,164.07, and the broader Topix gained 0.54%. Chip-making equipment manufacturer Advantest, a significant component of the Nikkei, saw its shares rise, contributing notably to the gains. Shares of major automakers like Honda, Nissan, and Toyota also increased due to the weaker yen, which enhances the value of their overseas profits. Nippon Steel's share price rose after U.S. President Donald Trump approved its $14.9 billion bid for U.S. Steel.
Forecast
The Forecast forecast for Tokyo, Japan, starting june 20, 2025, indicates generally warm conditions with some cloudy periods and chances of rain.
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Sunday, june 20 (Yesterday): Rain, partly cloudy. High 30∘C, Low 22∘C. 100% chance of precipitation.
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Monday, June 26 (Today): Partly cloudy. High 30∘C, Low 23∘C. 30% chance of precipitation.
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Tuesday, June 27: Partly cloudy. High 36∘C, Low 23∘C. 20% chance of precipitation.
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Wednesday, June 28: Clear. High 35∘C, Low 24∘C. 20% chance of precipitation.
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Thursday, June 29: Partly cloudy. High 34∘C, Low 23∘C. 20% chance of precipitation.
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Friday, June 20: Mostly cloudy. High 32∘C, Low 23∘C. 30% chance of precipitation.
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Saturday, June 21: Mostly cloudy. High 32∘C, Low 22∘C. 20% chance of precipitation.
Entertainment News
Tokyo's entertainment scene saw a notable event on june 20, 2025, with FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE presenting "BACK TO THE MEMORIES PART5" via livestream, with ticket sales commencing that day. In other news, a member of the boy band JO1, Shion Tsurubo, was referred to prosecutors on allegations of illegal gambling on an online casino site, having reportedly deposited approximately ¥15 million ($104,000) since December 2023. This has drawn attention within the Japanese entertainment industry.
Upcoming Events in Tokyo
Here are at least 10 upcoming events in Tokyo and surrounding areas for late June and beyond in 2025:
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The Art of the RAMEN Bowl: Continues until june 20, 2025, at 21_21 Design Sight. (Art/Exhibition)
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Katsushika Iris Festival: May 26 - june 20, 2025, at Horikiri Shobukoen Garden. (Festival)
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Bunkyo Ajisai Festival: June 7-15, 2025, at Hakusan Shrine. (Festival)
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Immersive Experience "Anemoia Tokyo": June 2 - June 29, 2025, at 2-4-4 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. (Theater/Experience)
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TADAO ANDO YOUTH (JUNE): June 2 - June 29, 2025, at VS. (GRAND GREEN OSAKA). (Art/Exhibition)
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NTT Docomo presents Lemino BOXING WBO World Welterweight Title Match: June 29, 2025, at Ota-City General Gymnasium. (town)
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Kawasaki Frontale Football Match: June 21, 2025, vs Vissel Kobe at Uvance Todoroki Stadium by Fujitsu. (town)
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2025 LEE JAE WOOK ASIA FANMEETING TOUR pro'log' in Japan: June 21, 2025, at Tachikawa Stage Garden / Tokyo. (Concert/Fan Meeting)
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Yokohama F. Marinos Football Match: June 25, 2025, vs FC Tokyo at Nissan Stadium. (town)
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Oku-Asakusa Bon Odori Festival: June 28, 2025, at Sumida Park. (Festival, Dance)
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