In a landmark ruling, Tokyo High Court declared that Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage violates the constitution, paving the way for potential legal changes. This decision comes amidst a growing global movement for LGBTQ+ rights and follows similar rulings in other Asian countries like Thailand. This article delves into the reactions and hopes for the future from activists in Thailand, Korea, and Japan, highlighting the ongoing struggle for marriage equality in Asia.
Ho Chi Minh City and Japan’s Aichi Prefecture are coming together for a unique event designed to foster deeper cultural understanding, promote trade partnerships, and enhance tourism connections. The event will feature captivating cultural performances, trade discussions, and culinary experiences, solidifying the bond between the two regions.
Nvidia and SoftBank have announced a partnership to create Japan’s most powerful AI supercomputer, utilizing Nvidia’s advanced Blackwell platform. This move signifies a significant step in Japan’s ambition to become a global leader in AI, with potential benefits for telecommunications, transportation, robotics, and healthcare.
Japan’s renowned ski resorts, Niseko Hirafu and Hakuba Iwatake, are gearing up for a transformative winter with the introduction of state-of-the-art gondolas. These new lifts promise faster access to the slopes, enhanced comfort, and breathtaking views, all while capitalizing on the potential for a snow-abundant La Niña winter.
Shigeru Ishiba has been elected as Japan’s Prime Minister after a tumultuous week that saw his entire cabinet resign and his coalition lose the general election. He will now lead a minority government, facing a number of challenges, including a potentially hostile relationship with the US under President Donald Trump and the need to secure enough votes to pass legislation. The opposition parties are fractured, preventing a strong challenge to Ishiba’s leadership.
Mitsui Fudosan is set to unveil a new luxury hotel in Hakone, Japan, with the opening of HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE in 2026. Nestled within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this exclusive retreat will offer 126 rooms, exquisite hot spring experiences, and a design that seamlessly blends elegance with the surrounding natural beauty. Guests will be treated to stunning views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the region’s famed hot springs, all while experiencing exceptional service and unparalleled luxury.
Shigeru Ishiba is poised to become Prime Minister of Japan once more, leading a minority government after a hung parliament emerged following the recent general election. Despite the LDP coalition’s failure to secure a majority, Ishiba is expected to be elected due to the fractured opposition and the LDP-Komeito bloc’s status as the largest parliamentary force.
Asia and the Middle East are experiencing a surge in air connectivity, driven by strong outbound growth from China and Japan and the UAE’s continued dominance as the region’s primary connectivity hub. This surge is reflected in a significant increase in international air seat availability, positioning these regions as crucial players in the global travel landscape.
The China Cultural Center in Tokyo hosted a captivating exhibition, “Rice Cultivation and Oriental Civilization,” showcasing the enduring legacy of rice farming and its profound impact on Chinese and Japanese cultures. The exhibition, featuring artifacts, replicas, and visuals, highlights the historical roots of rice agriculture in the lower Yangtze River and its role in shaping early societies. This cultural exchange aims to deepen international understanding through the shared history of rice cultivation.
Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd. and Mitsui Fudosan Resort Management Co., Ltd. have announced plans for HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE, a 126-room luxury resort opening in Hakone, Japan in 2026. The hotel will embrace traditional Japanese hospitality and offer a serene escape into nature with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes. Expect exquisite dining, world-class spa facilities, and a seamless integration with the area’s rich cultural heritage.
