The emerging recession looks like it could be bad. So bad in fact, that some economists are saying it will be the worst in a lifetime - certainly the worst in 50 years anyway. As with all recessions, this one features a spectacular loss of confidence on the stock markets and a number of market corrections before things settle down. But what’s different this time around, from, say, 2002, is not only is there a loss of confidence in Japan, the contagion is global - meaning there is no where safe for international investors to park their money and wait things out.

It'll be a long winter for some of Japan's tourist operators.

I frequently get email from readers overseas who have set their hearts on coming to Japan and who are trying to figure out how to find a job in their chosen field. But to get to that job they first need a visa.

Tough times ahead for Japan's motoring giant.