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News Tokyo

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Bluefin Tuna Fetches Record $3.2 Million at New Year Auction

On January 5, a 243-kg (538-pound) bluefin tuna sold for a staggering 500 million yen ($3.2 million) at the first auction of the year at Toyosu Market. The "Tuna King" Kiyoshi Kimura, president of Kiyomura Corp., outbid rivals to secure the prize, which was caught off the coast of Oma.

Economics: Tokyo Markets Open 2026 with Nearly 3% increase

The Nikkei 225 jumped 2.97% on January 5, the first trading day of the year, closing at 51,832.80. The broader Topix index hit a record high, fueled by optimism over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s proactive fiscal policies and a weaker yen.

Science: Tokyo Climbs to 2nd in Global City Power Index

A report released just this week by the Mori Memorial Foundation confirms Tokyo has overtaken New York to rank 2nd globally (behind London). The city saw significant score improvements in "livability" and "environment," marking its highest position since the index began.

The Arts: New National Theatre Tokyo Debuts New Production of The Nutcracker

The arts scene kicked off the year with a vibrant new production of The Nutcracker choreographed by Will Tuckett. The show, which ran through January 4, utilized cutting-edge projection mapping to bring a modern digital aesthetic to the classical ballet.

Fashion: "Vintage Frenzy" Forecast for Tokyo’s 2026 Style

Ahead of the major Furugi (Secondhand) Festival on January 11, Tokyo fashion analysts are predicting that "Pre-loved Americana" will be the dominant trend of the year. Local retailers are seeing a surge in demand for 1990s Japanese streetwear repurposed with sustainable materials.

Labor Shortages Drive Wage Hikes

As of January 5, corporate reports indicate that the "structural labor deficiency" is forcing Tokyo firms to offer record-high ing salaries for the 2026 fiscal year. Logistics and IT remain the most aggressive hiring sectors as companies struggle to fill roles despite AI integration.

Real Estate: Central Tokyo Land Values Rise Over 10%

A New Year market outlook shows that residential land prices in Chiyoda, Minato, and Shibuya have surged by over 10% year-over-year. Active redevelopment projects around major stations and a continued inflow of international investment are keeping the central market extremely tight.

Tokyo Auto Salon Previews "Carbon Neutral"

Performance Preparations are in the final stages for the Tokyo Auto Salon (Jan 9). This year's focus is on "performance electrification," with major Japanese automakers expected to unveil high-output EV sports concepts designed to compete with global luxury brands.

Public Health: Tokyo Fire Department Issues Annual "Mochi" Warning

Following several hospitalizations and one fatality on New Year's Day involving elderly residents choking on mochi (rice cakes), the Tokyo Fire Department issued a fresh plea on January 5 for residents to cut the festive treat into small pieces and chew slowly.

Trade/Diplomacy: Eurasia Group Ranks US-Japan Trade as "Top Risk"

In their 2026 "Top Risks" report published on January 5, analysts warned that while US tariffs under the Trump administration have stabilized, Japanese firms must navigate "unconventional" approach to trade that may affect the automotive and semiconductor sectors this year.

Tokyo Garden Theater: Pet Shop Boys Live (Concert) – Jan 6

Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (Automotive/Culture) – Makuhari Messe, Jan 9–11

Sumo Tournament (Hatsu Basho) (Sports) – Ryogoku Kokugikan, Jan 11–25

Furugi (Secondhand Clothing) Festival (Fashion/Shopping) – Ariake, Jan 11

NHK Symphony: Mahler’s Symphony No. 6 (Symphony) – NHK Hall, Jan 17–18

BLACKPINK: World Tour [BORN PINK] (K-Pop) – Tokyo Dome, Jan 16–18

Fledermaus (The Bat) (Operetta) – New National Theatre Tokyo, Jan 22–29

Sake and Hotpot Festival (Food/Festival) – Yoyogi Park, Jan 23–25

Top News Event: Tokyo District Court Orders Dissolution of "Unification Church" in Japan

In a landmark ruling with major political ramifications, the Tokyo District Court ordered the dissolution of the Japanese branch of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (widely known as the Unification Church). The court upheld the government's request, citing systematic and malicious solicitation of massive donations that violated laws and harmed public welfare. This decision, linked to the assassination of former PM Shinzo Abe, is expected to trigger a lengthy appeal.

Economics: Yen Plummets Past 155 to the Dollar, Bank of Japan Holds Emergency Meeting

The Japanese yen collapsed to a new 34-year low, breaking past the critical 155 JPY to 1 USD threshold. This triggered an emergency, unscheduled meeting between the Bank of Japan (BOJ), the Finance Ministry, and the Financial Services Agency. While officials issued a statement of "serious concern," they stopped short of immediate market intervention, creating uncertainty and anxiety among Tokyo's importers and consumers facing higher costs.

Science: RIKEN Team in Wako Announces Breakthrough in Room-Temperature Superconductor Synthesis

Researchers at the RIKEN research institute in the Tokyo metropolitan area published a peer-reviewed paper detailing a new, more stable method for synthesizing a potential room-temperature superconducting material. While still under intense verification, the breakthrough represents a significant step forward in a field that promises revolutionary changes to energy, transportation, and computing.

Arts: TeamLab to Open Permanent, Massive Digital Art Museum in Central Tokyo

The internationally renowned digital art collective teamLab announced it will open a massive, permanent exhibition space in the heart of Tokyo's Marunouchi business district in late 2025. Dubbed "teamLab Marunouchi," the project will transform a multi-story building into an immersive, boundary-less digital art experience, cementing Tokyo's status as a global hub for this art form.

Fashion: Issey Miyake Announces Final Collection Under Longtime Creative Director, Signaling New Era

The House of Issey Miyake announced that long-time Creative Director Yoshiyuki Miyamae will present his final collection this fall. Having faithfully carried on the founder's legacy of pleating and innovation for over a decade, his departure signals a major transition for one of Japan's most iconic fashion brands. The industry is speculating intensely about the direction of his successor.

Tokyo's Service Sector Faces "2024 Problem" of Severe Labor Shortage Amid Tourism Boom

A survey by the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry reveals that over 85% of hotels, restaurants, and retail shops in central Tokyo are experiencing a critical staffing shortage, dubbing it the "2024 Problem." With tourist numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels, businesses are being forced to limit hours, reduce services, or offer unprecedented wages to attract workers, impacting the city's service quality.

Tokyo Office Vacancy Rate Drops for First Time in 4 Years, But Prices Remain Stagnant

Global real estate firm CBRE reported that the vacancy rate for prime office space in Tokyo's five central wards (Chiyoda, Chuo, Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya) fell to 5.1% in Q1 2024, the first decline since the pandemic began. However, average rents remain flat, as companies prioritize hybrid work models and cost control, indicating a "tenant's market" despite the improving occupancy.

Car Market: Nissan HQ Announces Strategic Shift, Slashing Chinese Production and Betting on "Japan-Made" EVs for Global Market

From its headquarters in Yokohama, Nissan Motor Co. unveiled a new mid-term plan that involves a sharp reduction in production capacity in China and a renewed focus on manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) in Japan for export. The strategy bets on the weak yen making Japanese exports competitive and aims to leverage domestic craftsmanship and advanced battery technology to regain market share.

Technology: SoftBank's AI Ambitions Advance with $10 Billion Investment in New Center Project
SoftBank Group announced plans to invest over $10 billion to build a network of next-generation, power-efficient centers across Japan, with the first major hub in the Tokyo area. The infrastructure is specifically designed to train and run massive artificial intelligence models, positioning Tokyo as a key physical hub in the global AI race led by SoftBank's founder Masayoshi.

Haneda Airport Implements Stricter Security, Longer Wait Times After New Threat Assessment

Following a new national security directive, Tokyo's Haneda Airport has implemented enhanced screening procedures for all domestic and international flights. Passengers are reporting security wait times of 90+ minutes during peak periods. The airport authority has apologized for the inconvenience but stated the measures, which include more detailed pat-downs and carry-on inspections, are indefinite.

Tokyo Yakult Swallows vs. Yomiuri Giants (Central League Baseball)

When: Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12

Where: Meiji Jingu Stadium, Shinjuku

What: Japan's most classic baseball rivalry, the "Tokyo Derby," played at the historic Jingu Stadium. Always a high-energy, sold-out event.

Traditional Arts: Nohgaku Performances at the National Noh Theatre

When: Saturday, May 11 & Sunday, May 12

Where: National Noh Theatre, Shibuya

What: A weekend of classic Noh and Kyogen performances, offering English subtitles. A profound experience of Japan's oldest surviving theatrical art form.

Concert: BABYMETAL - "BABYMETAL RETURNS" World Tour 2024

When: Tuesday, May 14 & Wednesday, May 15

Where: Pia Arena MM, Yokohama (Tokyo Metro Area)

What: The global kawaii metal sensation kicks off the Japanese leg of their world tour with two explosive nights near Tokyo.

Exhibition: "The World of Manga" at the Mori Art Museum (Roppongi Hills)

When: Runs from Saturday, May 11 - September 1

Where: Mori Art Museum

What: A major exhibition exploring manga's artistic evolution, cultural impact, and future, featuring original artwork, digital installations, and artist talks.

Festival: Kanda Matsuri (One of Tokyo's Three Great Festivals) - Portable Shrine Processions

When: Primary processions on Saturday, May 11

Where: Central Tokyo (Kanda Myojin Shrine, Otemachi, Nihombashi)

What: The grand, biennial Kanda Festival features massive, ornatemikoshi (portable shrines) carried by hundreds through the financial district, transforming the city's center.

Sumo: Summer Grand Sumo Tournament (Natsu Basho)

When: May 12 - May 26

Where: Ryogoku Kokugikan, Sumida City

What: One of the six annual Grand Sumo tournaments. The final days (May 24-26) feature the top-ranked wrestlers battling for the championship and are the most exciting to attend.

Pop Culture: "Hatsune Miku Symphony 2024"

When: Thursday, May 16 & Friday, May 17

Where: Tokyo Garden Theatre

What: The iconic virtual pop star Hatsune Miku performs "live" with a full symphony orchestra, a stunning fusion of digital and classical art unique to Japan.

Theater: All-Female Takarazuka Revue - "Roman Holiday"

When: Now through May 20

Where: Takarazuka Theatre, Tokyo (in Yurakucho)

What: The glamorous, all-female Takarazuka musical theater troupe presents a spectacular new production based on the classic film Roman Holiday.

Garden: "Fuji Shibazakura (Pink Moss) Festival" at the base of Mt. Fuji (Day Trip from Tokyo)

When: Now through May 26

Where: Fuji Five Lakes Region (1.5-2 hours from Tokyo)

What: A breathtaking seasonal spectacle where 800,000 pink moss phlox flowers create a vibrant carpet with majestic Mt. Fuji in the background. Peak viewing is now.

Food & Culture: Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa (Final Weekend)

When: Friday, May 17 - Sunday, May 19

Where: Asakusa Shrine and Senso-ji Temple area

What: One of Tokyo's wildest and most vibrant festivals. The narrow streets of Asakusa fill with energetic mikoshi processions, traditional music, dancing, and street food stalls

Retail: Iconic Ginza Department Store "Matsuzakaya" Announces Major Downsizing and Rebranding

The flagship Matsuzakaya department store in the upscale Ginza district announced it will close three of its eight floors permanently by the end of the fiscal year. The move is part of a drastic downsizing and rebranding effort to focus on high-margin luxury goods and exclusive services, reflecting the continued pressure on traditional depāto (department stores) from online retail and changing consumer habits.

Environment: Tokyo Bay Water Quality Study Finds Alarming Levels of Microplastics from Tire Wear

A joint study by the University of Tokyo and the Tokyo Metropolitan Environmental Bureau revealed that microplastics from tire wear particles are the dominant pollutant found in Tokyo Bay's water, surpassing even fibers from clothing. The study links the contamination directly to the city's dense traffic and raises new concerns about the impact on marine life and potential human health risks from seafood.

Labor: Major Rail Union Threatens First Strike in Decades Over "Dangerous" Staffing Levels

The Japan Confederation of Railway Workers' Unions (JRU) has threatened a 24-hour strike on several key Tokyo commuter lines, including the Tokyu and Keisei networks, if management does not address what it calls "critically dangerous" staff shortages. The union claims overwork and understaffing are leading to safety risks and operational errors, signaling rising labor militancy in a sector known for its stability.

Food Safety: Nationwide Recall of Mayonnaise from Tokyo Factory Due to Possible Contamination

K Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, initiated a nationwide recall of specific batches of its iconic mayonnaise after traces of an unapproved food additive were detected at its Sumida ward factory. While no illnesses were reported, the recall of such a ubiquitous pantry staple has caused significant consumer concern and disrupted restaurants and food manufacturers across the country.

Controversial "Jingu Gaien" Redevelopment Project Formally Halted by Court Injunction

The Tokyo District Court granted a provisional injunction halting the massive, contentious redevelopment project of the Jingu Gaien area (home to Meiji Jingu Stadium and the iconic ginkgo tree avenue). The court sided with plaintiffs—including prominent architects and celebrities—who argued the environmental assessment was flawed and the project would irreparably damage Tokyo's precious green space.

Technology Ethics: Government Panel in Tokyo Proposes Strict "AI Lie Detector" Ban for Job Interviews

A key advisory panel to the Cabinet Office, based in Tokyo, released draft guidelines recommending a complete ban on the use of AI-powered "voice analysis" or "micro-expression" software to assess job candidates' honesty or emotional state during interviews. The proposal aims to prevent discrimination and privacy violations and would be among the world's first regulations targeting such specific HR technology.

Celebrity Culture: Agency Powerhouse Johnny & Associates Officially Rebrands, Apologizes Ahead of Civil Trial

In a continued effort to distance itself from its founder's sexual abuse scandal, the Tokyo-based talent agency formerly known as Johnny & Associates held a press conference to announce its official rebranding to "SMILE-UP." The company's new president issued another formal apology as the agency prepares for the first major civil trial from victims, set to begin in a Tokyo court next month.

Transportation Innovation: Driverless "Robot Buses" Begin Public Trial Runs on Odaiba's Seafront Route

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and tech company ZENRIN launched a three-month public trial of fully autonomous, driverless "robot buses" on a designated 2-kilometer route along the Odaiba seafront. The trial, a key step in Tokyo's strategy for next-generation mobility ahead of the 2025 Expo, allows residents and tourists to ride for free while collecting critical safety and operational .