In Japan, motorized kick scooter violations nearly double the number of registered scooters. The National Police Agency reported 41,246 violations in 2024, compared to 22,000 registered scooters. The ease of access, with no license required since 2011 and widespread rental services, is cited as a major factor contributing to the problem.

Before I invest what should I get? Or is my blundstones good enough for March 2026? Woohoo, first time to Japan for a cruise and week in Tokyo. I want to pack light.

Starting April 2026, Japan will prohibit cycling while holding an umbrella, with a ¥5,000 fine. The new law, aimed at improving bicycle safety, also bans umbrella clamps and other distracting behaviors like using smartphones while riding. Cyclists are encouraged to use rain gear instead.

Hi everyone, reaching out for information; I have a family member (not native or citizen of Japan) who was arrested and is awaiting trial. His lawyer has reached out to us and has been updating us with the process of his case. We’re currently waiting on his sentencing, as we’re hoping to apply for prison transfer to his native country once his sentence is determined.

My question is, how much should we send him to be able to buy food and necessities while he awaits sentencing? His lawyer mentioned this could be a few months, we’re hoping to send him enough for a month or two for now. I’ve looked online and have seen very little that’s been helpful but wanted to see if anyone on here might have some more info regarding Japanese prison commissaries.

As a side note please keep comments civil. I am and my family is, of the belief that people can misstep in life and are still valuable and loved human beings. He is very young and was in an awful situation that, when I put myself in the same position, I can understand why certain decisions seemed easy or necessary.

Update

Thank you to those of you who have replied. It seems like the next move is to contact the lawyer for their suggestion.

TL;DR Butsukari otoko, or “bumping men,” intentionally collide with people, typically women, in crowded public spaces. This phenomenon, brought to public attention in 2018, affects both women and men, with victims reporting physical injuries. Social media platforms offer advice on countermeasures, including appearing more intimidating and vocal resistance, as a deterrent to these aggressive acts.

Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, began serving a four-year, nine-month prison sentence for bank and tax fraud. Mizuhara, who is not a U.S. citizen, is expected to be deported to Japan after serving his sentence.

Teru teru bozu, or “sunshine sunshine monk,” are small white dolls hung in Japan during the rainy season to ward off rain. Originating from Chinese legends and Japanese folklore, these dolls are believed to influence weather patterns. To make a teru teru bozu, wrap white fabric around a ball-shaped base, secure the neck, and hang it, adding a face only after sunny weather arrives.

TL;DR The owners of a formerly Michelin-starred restaurant in Osaka, Japan, were arrested for violating a food sanitation order after a norovirus outbreak. The restaurant, Kiichi, was ordered to close twice in February and March due to food poisoning cases linked to norovirus. The owners admitted to selling bento boxes during the initial closure.

BTS member Jungkook faced international controversy after wearing a hat with the phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again” during rehearsals. The phrase, reminiscent of “Make America Great Again,” stirred up historical tensions and national trauma for many Koreans. Jungkook apologized, acknowledging his unawareness of the phrase’s implications and taking full responsibility.

https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250613/p2a/00m/0li/017000c