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July 28: We are currently experiencing a blistering summer, with temperatures in Tokyo frequently surpassing 35 °C. A week after the Upper House Election, which has reshaped Japan's political landscape, there are increasing calls for Prime Minister to step down. We are concerned about the emerging power struggle within the LDP and believe that the party should urgently articulate a clear roadmap for the future.
July 18: Ahead of the July 20 House of Councilors election, “foreigners” in Japan emerged at the center of debate. This is a crucial moment, as the minor nationalist party, Sanseito, which advocates stricter controls on foreign residents under the “Japan First” banner, gains broader acceptance. Sanseito calls for an end to welfare support for foreigners, and the establishment of a centralized immigration agency and stricter cultural conformity by foreigners in Japan. They intend to minimize the friction and disruption among foreign residents and the Japanese. The outcome of this election could significantly shape Japan's future.
According to the Immigration Service Agency, the number of foreign nationals living in Japan stood at a record 3.58 million, up 5.2 percent YoY as of the end of June, 2024. The Population of Japanese nationals stood at 123 million as of October 1, 2024, and fell by 0.44% YoY, highlighting the workforce constraints that will weigh on future economic growth. It seems necessary to promote coexistence with foreign nationals. Still, it is also required to exercise certain control over foreign nationals, including the acquisition of land, to revitalize Japan’s future growth.
July 11: After heavy rain last night, it was cloudy and cool today in Tokyo. A movie, “KOKUHO” (National Treasure), is a much-discussed, big hit movie, especially among middle-aged women. It was such a fascinating movie because of the story featuring the Kabuki world, visually stunning scenes, and dance performance, and it is probably the best Japanese movie in recent years.
A plot summary is the dramatic life story of two Kabuki actors: one is the son and a direct descendant of the Kabuki family, and the other is the son of a Yakuza but adopted by the Kabuki family. Two boys grow and practice Kabuki together, but the Yakuza’s son is more talented. Still, he doesn’t have a direct lineage of the Kabuki family, which values the Kabuki bloodline and heritage. The story is about the lives of two men who pursue a Kabuki career, polishing their acting skills. Two main actors, Ryo Yoshizawa and Ryusei Yokohama, are Japan’s leading young actors, who perform a fantastic Kabuki act in a graceful, feminine manner.
Three hours passed so quickly, without moving or drinking a Coke. The theatre was full and tickets were sold out every time. The movie is not available on Amazon Prime Video or Netflix yet, but it is worth watching!
Shrimp Special Lunch at "Shrimp Garden"
shrimp ramen
2-1-1 Uchisaiwai-cho, Chiyoda-ku, TokyoIino Building 1FTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line C4 Exit
July 10: It’s been scorching for days now. According to “tenki jp”, the temperature is around 35℃ and the humidity is 90% for July 10.
We haven’t heard the cicada singing this summer yet. Some say that the cicada failed to emerge due to sudden heat, or the cicada doesn’t sing when the temperature exceeds 35℃. I can't wait to listen! Take care.
Summer in Japan Begins with the Song of the Cicada
July 7: In the July 20 House of Councilors election, voters focused on rising living costs and higher tax and social insurance fees. All party leaders discuss the distribution of benefits and a reduction in the consumption tax rate to address rising prices.
More importantly, we are facing a historical transition in the international order, and possibly higher tariffs. Politicians should discuss the nation’s national security and diplomacy in more detail, as well as how to mitigate the negative impact of higher tariffs on corporate earnings.
July 4: According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the rainy season, known as “Tsuyu”, is likely to conclude around July 7 in the Kanto and Tokai regions. The rainy season is expected to come to a close quickly, and intense summer heat is anticipated to persist for an extended period. Moreover, there is a concern over “a little rain,” which can lead to a water shortage.
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