Japan’s rural relocation boom is accelerating as more families look beyond city life in search of space, community, and a fresh start, even as concerns over jobs, convenience, and fitting into tight-knit local networks continue to hold many back. (News On Japan)

The US president threatens to impose tariffs on countries that oppose his plans to take over the territory.

Japan’s two-day nationwide university entrance exam has concluded without major disruption, even after introducing its first online application system and requiring students to print their own admission tickets. (News On Japan)

A fire festival was held on January 17th at Cape Shionomisaki in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, the southernmost point of Honshu, where organizers set ablaze the roughly 100,000-square-meter “Boro no Shiba” grassland overlooking the Pacific Ocean. (News On Japan)

President Ahmed al-Sharaa said the deal would allow the Syrian state to reassert control over most areas.

Israel says it is unhappy it was not consulted, and Palestinians have also been critical.

Israel says it is unhappy it was not consulted, and Palestinians have also been critical.

At least 16 people are confirmed dead and 20,000 are evacuated as fires rage in two southern regions.

Parts of the huge plaza in Karachi have collapsed as firefighters battle to extinguish the blaze.

Parts of the huge plaza in Karachi have collapsed as firefighters battle to extinguish the blaze.

The Kurdish-led SDF militia withdrew from the Omar oil field amid an eastward push by government forces.

Internet monitor FilterWatch warns that authorities are trying to cut the country off from international connectivity.

Internet monitor FilterWatch warns that authorities are trying to cut the country off from international connectivity.

Internet monitor FilterWatch warns that authorities are trying to cut the country off from international connectivity.

At the start of the year, gold and silver briefly reclaimed their positions as the world’s largest assets by market capitalization amid heightened global uncertainty. (News On Japan)

In the year 2026, the concept of scarcity for assets like Bitcoin, gold, and silver has evolved beyond traditional boundaries of supply constraints. (News On Japan)

A wave of new subscription-style services is drawing attention in Sapporo, with everything from coffee and craft beer to cleaning now being offered for a flat monthly fee. (News On Japan)

A traditional New Year archery contest known as “Toshiya” is being held at the national treasure Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto, with 20-year-olds and other young participants competing to test their skills. (News On Japan)

The troops are an option should Donald Trump decide to use them to quell anti-ICE protests in the city, an official tells CBS News.

Heavy rain did not dampen a man's spirits as he decided to take a dive into a flooded Sydney golf course.