National News Articles – Japan

Japan Examines AI-Powered Humanoid Robots for Defense Japan is preparing to examine whether humanoid robots equipped with physical artificial intelligence could eventually be used to support the country’s defense operations, as the Self-Defense Forces face continuing difficulties in securing enough personnel. Government and ruling party sources said the Japanese government plans to study the potential use of humanoid robots capable of operating in the physical world. The initial focus is expected to be on tasks that do not involve direct combat, with the technology potentially helping to reduce the workload placed on personnel and compensate for shortages within the Self-Defense Forces. How Humanoid Robots Could Support Japan’s Defense Forces One of the principal areas being considered is the use of humanoid robots for routine duties that currently require human personnel. Possible applications could include patrolling military facilities, transporting supplies and providing logistical assistance. Robots could potentially operate in environments where sending personnel would be difficult, dangerous or inefficient. They could also eventually have applications in reconnaissance and rescue operations, depending on how the technology develops. A humanoid design could provide particular advantages in environments built for people. Robots with arms, legs and a human-like body could potentially use existing stairs, doors, vehicles and equipment without requiring completely redesigned infrastructure. For Japan, the technology is also relevant because of continuing difficulties surrounding recruitment and staffing within the Self-Defense Forces. Using autonomous or semi-autonomous machines for selected duties could allow human personnel to concentrate on responsibilities requiring specialist skills and decision-making. What Physical AI Means Physical AI differs from conventional software-based artificial intelligence because it combines AI systems with sensors, cameras and a physical machine capable of interacting with its surroundings. A humanoid robot could use information gathered through cameras and other sensors to identify objects, understand its environment and perform assigned tasks. Advances in artificial intelligence are making it increasingly possible for machines to interpret changing surroundings rather than simply follow a fixed sequence of programmed movements. Japan’s defense authorities have already identified AI and unmanned equipment as important areas for future development. Unmanned systems can potentially operate for extended periods in difficult environments without exposing personnel to the same risks. The country is therefore examining unmanned technology across land, sea, underwater and air operations. Humanoid robots would represent a different category because they could potentially perform physical tasks normally associated with personnel rather than simply operating as remotely controlled vehicles or aircraft. Testing Humanoid Robot Technology As part of the planned study, Japanese authorities are expected to consider demonstrations or competitions involving humanoid robots developed by private companies and universities. Such trials would allow developers to demonstrate what their machines are capable of doing in realistic environments. The emphasis would be on practical capabilities rather than simply producing a robot that resembles a human. A useful defense-support robot would need to navigate independently, recognise objects and obstacles, manipulate equipment and operate reliably for extended periods. It would also need to function in environments where communications could be disrupted and where conditions may differ considerably from those used during laboratory testing. These factors could make real-world demonstrations particularly important before the technology could be considered for operational use. Testing could give the government a clearer picture of how quickly humanoid technology is developing and which tasks might realistically be suitable for robotic assistance. It could also highlight technical limitations that are less obvious during controlled demonstrations. Combat Applications Raise Different Questions Despite the potential military applications, the immediate focus of the proposed study is not expected to be armed humanoid robots. There are significant concerns about allowing artificial intelligence to make decisions in situations involving the potential use of force. An AI system could potentially misidentify people or objects, misunderstand changing circumstances or make an incorrect assessment based on incomplete information. These concerns become particularly important in environments where civilians and military personnel may be present at the same time. Japan’s defense authorities have recognised that the development and use of AI creates technical, legal and operational issues. Reliability, cybersecurity, training data, accountability and the appropriate level of human involvement are among the questions that would have to be considered. The distinction between support and combat is therefore significant. The immediate concept is focused on using machines to undertake selected supporting activities and reduce risks and workloads for personnel rather than replacing soldiers in combat. Part of Japan’s Wider Defense Technology Strategy The consideration of humanoid robots comes as Japan examines a much broader role for artificial intelligence in national defense. The government is also looking at the incorporation of domestically developed AI into Self-Defense Forces command and control systems. The aim is to improve the speed and accuracy of information processing and decision-making while maintaining an appropriate level of human involvement. Japan is consequently examining AI across several different areas, ranging from command systems and intelligence analysis to unmanned vehicles and physical machines. Humanoid robots remain an experimental area, however, and there is a substantial difference between demonstrating that a machine can complete a task and deploying it reliably within an operational defense environment. Cost, maintenance, cybersecurity, communications, battery life and autonomous operation would all need to be considered. For now, Japan’s plan represents an investigation into what humanoid robots might eventually contribute to the Self-Defense Forces rather than a decision to deploy autonomous machines in combat. If the technology continues to advance, robots could potentially take on selected tasks involving logistics, facility patrols, reconnaissance or emergency assistance. The planned research and demonstrations could provide an early indication of how Japan intends to balance the opportunities offered by physical AI with the technical, legal and operational challenges associated with increasingly autonomous machines. The immediate focus remains on developing technology that can support human personnel rather than replacing them. Source: DePRESSeD Media Ltd

Child’s Body Found on Island Off Northeastern Japan, Possibly Missing Boy Police in Yamagata Prefecture are investigating whether a body found on a remote island off northeastern Japan is that of a six-year-old boy who disappeared earlier this month. The discovery came after an extensive search involving more than 1,100 police personnel. The body was found on Wednesday, September 23, on Tobishima, an island belonging to Sakata in Yamagata Prefecture. Police have not yet formally identified the body, and as of Thursday evening neither the identity nor the cause of death had been established. Investigators are examining the possibility that the body is that of Yuto Takahashi, a six-year-old first-grade student at a special needs school who has been missing since September 5. Body Found on Tobishima A man in his 70s discovered the body at around 11:20 a.m. on Wednesday while carrying out volunteer cleaning activities on Tobishima. He contacted police after finding what appeared to be a child’s body on the coast. The body was found at Arasaki Beach on the western side of the island. It was lying face down on rocks approximately five metres inland from the water’s edge. The location is around 40 kilometres northwest across the sea from the park near Takahashi’s home where he was last seen. Tobishima itself is located about 40 kilometres from Sakata Port. Police said the body appeared to be that of a child based on its physical characteristics. However, the sex of the deceased had not initially been determined, and investigators could not confirm the person’s identity from the initial examination. Clothing Resembled What Missing Boy Was Wearing One of the main reasons police believe the body could be that of Takahashi is the clothing it was wearing. The body was dressed in what was described as a navy blue and red Spider-Man-patterned jumpsuit. Police said the clothing was similar to what Takahashi was wearing when he disappeared on September 5. The similarity prompted investigators to examine the possibility that the body could be connected to the missing-child case. The clothing alone, however, has not been sufficient to establish the identity of the deceased. Police began a formal process to identify the body and determine the cause of death. A forensic autopsy was carried out on Thursday, September 24. Police were examining the body as part of efforts to establish both the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the death. Six-Year-Old Disappeared on September 5 Takahashi disappeared from Sakata on September 5. Police said he was last seen at about 9 a.m. that day at a park in Higashiizumicho, approximately 700 metres from his home. Security camera footage also showed a child believed to be Takahashi running towards the park at around 8:55 a.m., about five minutes before he was seen there. Police released footage in an effort to establish his movements and find additional information about what happened after he reached the area. The child had apparently left his home earlier that morning. Reports said he had been in the living room at around 8 a.m. and is believed to have opened the front door himself and gone outside. After his disappearance, police launched a large-scale search operation. Officers examined areas around the park, nearby roads, rivers and coastal areas while also checking information from security cameras and members of the public. More Than 1,100 Police Personnel Involved in Search The search continued for more than two weeks before the discovery on Tobishima. According to police, a cumulative total of approximately 1,100 police personnel had been involved in the operation. Investigators paid particular attention to rivers in the area surrounding the park where Takahashi was last seen. The park is located close to waterways, and police considered the possibility that he could have entered or fallen into a river and subsequently been carried downstream. Search teams also examined coastal waters and other locations around Sakata as the investigation continued. Despite the scale of the operation, police had not found a significant clue indicating where the boy had gone. The discovery of the body on Tobishima therefore provided investigators with a new location to examine, although it did not immediately answer how the body came to be on the island or whether it was Takahashi. How Could the Body Have Reached the Island? The distance between the area where Takahashi was last seen and Tobishima has raised questions about how the body could have reached the island if the deceased is confirmed to be the missing boy. Tobishima lies approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the coastal area around Sakata. Local reports said the western side of the island, where the body was discovered, is an area where debris and other objects can wash ashore. A specialist in water safety interviewed by local media said that a distance of about 40 kilometres would not necessarily be impossible for an object to travel over the period involved. Floating material can be affected by both ocean currents and wind, meaning its eventual location does not necessarily correspond directly to the direction of a current. The specialist also noted that conditions associated with a typhoon could potentially have influenced wind and water movement during the period. However, determining the actual route taken would require detailed examination of historical wind, wave and current conditions. Police have not publicly established that the body travelled from the area around Sakata to Tobishima by sea. That remains one possibility being considered as the investigation continues. Discovery Made During Volunteer Cleanup The body was found by a local man who had gone to the area to take part in a cleanup activity. He told local television reporters that he had been aware of the continuing search for the missing boy. He said he initially noticed what appeared to be something that had washed ashore and went closer to investigate. After seeing the clothing, he became concerned that it might be connected to the missing-child case and contacted police. The discovery was particularly distressing for

Gang of Angry Monkeys Surrounds and Attacks Man in Japan’s Hot Spring Town A man in his 40s was attacked by a group of Japanese macaques in Yugawara, a popular hot spring town in Kanagawa Prefecture, after the animals surrounded him during an early-morning walk. The incident is the latest in a growing series of problems involving a troop of wild monkeys that has increasingly moved into residential areas of the town. The animals have been blamed for threatening residents, entering properties and damaging gardens. The man was reportedly walking near the entrance of a hotel at around 7 a.m. when approximately a dozen monkeys surrounded him. He was bitten several times on his hands and was taken to hospital for treatment. Man Surrounded by Troop of Monkeys The attack happened in Yugawara on September 17. The town is located in western Kanagawa Prefecture and is well known for its hot springs, traditional inns and mountainous surroundings. The victim, who has not been publicly identified, was in his 40s when he encountered the monkeys. Rather than simply passing through the area, the animals surrounded him and attacked. The monkeys bit his hands several times during the encounter. The injuries were serious enough for him to require treatment at a hospital, although reports did not indicate that his injuries were life-threatening. The animals are believed to belong to a troop known as T1, which has become a longstanding problem for people living in Yugawara. The troop has increasingly been seen away from the surrounding forests and in parts of the town where people live and work. The latest attack has again highlighted the difficulty faced by residents of an area that is both a residential community and a popular destination for people visiting Japan for hot spring stays. More Than 900 Aggressive Incidents Reported The T1 troop has been associated with a large number of encounters involving people. More than 900 cases of monkeys behaving aggressively or threateningly towards humans were reported during 2025. Those incidents have not been limited to people encountering monkeys in the countryside. The animals have increasingly appeared in built-up parts of Yugawara, including residential neighbourhoods. Residents have reported monkeys entering gardens and homes, damaging vegetables and other plants, and creating problems around properties. Their increasing presence has changed everyday routines for some people living in affected parts of the town. A previous investigation by Japan Forward reported that Yugawara recorded about 33,000 incidents involving monkeys over the four years through 2025. A household survey documented problems ranging from monkeys climbing onto roofs and making noise to damage to homes and threatening behaviour towards residents. The survey recorded approximately 27,000 incidents between 2022 and 2024, followed by another 6,000 incidents in 2025. Many of the reported problems were concentrated around JR Yugawara Station and the area’s hot spring district. Monkeys Have Become Part of the Town’s Daily Problems The presence of the monkeys has become more than an occasional wildlife encounter. Residents have described having to change normal activities because of the animals. Some people have reported keeping their windows locked because monkeys use the surrounding area as a route. Others have stopped gardening after repeatedly encountering the animals near their homes. There have also been reports of monkeys entering areas used by visitors. An open-air bath in the area was reportedly forced to close after monkeys began appearing nearby. The situation is particularly significant because Yugawara’s identity is closely connected to tourism. The town is known for its natural hot springs and traditional accommodation, attracting visitors looking for a quieter alternative to larger tourist destinations in the Tokyo region. The increasing presence of wild macaques in the same areas used by residents and tourists therefore creates a difficult problem for local authorities. The monkeys are wild animals, but their habitat now overlaps with parts of the town used regularly by people. The T1 Troop Has a Complicated Status The monkeys are Japanese macaques, a native species that is found across large parts of Japan. The T1 troop is particularly significant because it is the last remaining troop in the Seisho area along the western coast of Sagami Bay. A population survey conducted in 2025 confirmed 20 monkeys in the T1 troop. The animals’ status makes the authorities’ response more complicated than simply removing a nuisance population. The regional population of Japanese macaques is listed by Kanagawa Prefecture as a population at risk of extinction. As a result, the authorities have to consider both the damage caused by the monkeys and the conservation status of the animals. Kanagawa has previously taken action against other troops under its Japanese macaque management programme. Entire troops have been removed from some areas when their presence created serious problems for local communities. The T1 troop, however, is the final remaining troop in the Seisho area, meaning that any decision to remove it entirely has wider implications for the regional macaque population. Authorities Have Been Seeking Permission to Act Yugawara’s local authorities have been seeking permission from Kanagawa Prefecture to capture the T1 troop because of the continuing problems it causes for residents. The request has been under consideration rather than being an immediate authorisation to remove the animals. The prefectural government has been examining how the monkeys should be managed as it prepares its next Japanese Macaque Management Plan. That plan is scheduled to take effect in fiscal 2027. The question of what should happen to the T1 troop is therefore being considered as part of a wider approach to managing Japanese macaques across the prefecture. The situation demonstrates why dealing with wildlife in populated areas can be complicated. Capturing or removing animals can reduce immediate risks to residents, but conservation rules and the status of the regional population also have to be taken into account. Why Are the Monkeys Becoming More Aggressive? The precise reason for the increasingly aggressive behaviour of the monkeys in Yugawara has not been established. Authorities have not identified a single cause that explains why

Japan’s Elderly Population Reaches Record 29.6%, Highest Among Major Nations Japan’s population aged 65 and over has reached a new record, with elderly people now accounting for 29.6 percent of the country’s total population, according to figures released by the Japanese government ahead of Respect for the Aged Day. The latest estimate shows that 36.24 million people in Japan are aged 65 or older. That figure increased by 20,000 from the previous year, even as Japan’s overall population continues to decline. The figures underline the scale of Japan’s demographic transformation and its position as the country with the highest proportion of elderly people among nations with populations of more than 40 million. Nearly Three in Every 10 People Are Aged 65 or Older The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications released the figures on September 20, one day before Japan’s Respect for the Aged Day. The proportion of people aged 65 or older reached 29.6 percent, exceeding the previous year’s figure of 29.4 percent. The total elderly population of 36.24 million consists of 15.71 million men and 20.54 million women. The figures demonstrate the continuing importance of older people within Japanese society, both in demographic terms and in the workforce. The latest percentage represents another record for Japan. Government statistics show that the proportion of people aged 65 and over has risen steadily over the long term as the country has experienced declining birth rates and increasing life expectancy. For comparison, official Japanese statistics put the elderly share at 29.3 percent as of October 2024. The new estimate therefore represents a further increase in the proportion of the population belonging to the 65-and-over age group. Japan Remains at the Top Internationally Japan’s demographic situation is particularly notable when compared with other large developed countries. Among 39 countries with populations of at least 40 million, Japan has the highest proportion of residents aged 65 or older. Italy has the second-highest proportion, with people aged 65 and over accounting for 25.6 percent of its population. Germany follows at 24.2 percent, while France records 22.9 percent. The difference between Japan and the other countries illustrates how pronounced the country’s ageing trend has become. Almost three out of every 10 people living in Japan are now at least 65 years old. The Japanese government’s comparison uses countries with populations of 40 million or more, rather than every country in the world. That distinction is important because countries with smaller populations can have different demographic structures and are not included in this particular comparison. The Number of People Aged 75 and Over Is Also Rising The ageing trend becomes even more pronounced when the population aged 75 and over is considered. People in this age group account for 17.7 percent of Japan’s total population. That proportion is also the highest among nine major countries examined in the government comparison. Italy follows Japan at 13.3 percent for the share of its population aged 75 and over. Japan’s large population of people aged 75 and over reflects the continuing movement of earlier generations into older age groups. It also means that the country’s ageing population is not simply a result of a growing number of people entering their 60s. A substantial and increasing part of Japan’s population is now in the 75-and-over category, creating additional demographic consequences for healthcare, social security, employment and the provision of services for older residents. Japan’s Working Population Has Also Been Changing The ageing of the population is taking place alongside a long-term reduction in the number of people in the traditional working-age population. Japanese government statistics show that the population aged between 15 and 64 has declined significantly from its previous peak. At the same time, the number of older people who remain in employment has continued to rise. According to the Statistics Bureau, 9.43 million people aged 65 or older were employed, marking the 22nd consecutive year in which the number increased. People aged 65 and over accounted for 13.8 percent of all employed people, another record in the government’s latest statistics. Employment rates for individual older age groups also reached record levels. The figures show that the elderly population should not be viewed simply as a group that has left the labour market. Many older Japanese people continue to work, contributing to businesses and the wider economy after reaching the traditional retirement age. Population Decline Makes the Proportion More Significant Japan’s record elderly percentage is occurring against the background of a shrinking overall population. The number of people aged 65 and over increased slightly in the latest figures, while Japan continues to face a longer-term decline in its total population. This combination means that older people represent an increasingly large share of the population. Even relatively small changes in the number of elderly residents can therefore produce a noticeable change in their percentage of the total population. Japan has experienced this demographic shift over several decades. The proportion of people aged 65 and over was less than 5 percent of the population in 1950. It subsequently passed 7 percent in 1970 and exceeded 14 percent in 1994 before continuing to rise. The transformation has changed the structure of Japanese society. The country now has a much smaller proportion of children and working-age adults relative to its elderly population than it did during the decades when Japan experienced rapid economic growth. The Ageing Trend Is Expected to Continue The latest record is not expected to represent the end of Japan’s ageing trend. Demographic projections indicate that the number of people aged 65 and over will increase further in the coming decades as large generations move into older age. According to projections from the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, Japan’s elderly population is expected to reach approximately 39.45 million by 2045. At that point, people aged 65 and over are projected to account for 36.3 percent of the total population. That would mean more than one in three people in Japan would be at least 65 years

Flights Cancelled as Typhoon Dujuan Brings Heavy Rain to Japan Hundreds of flights were cancelled and more than 1.6 million people were urged to evacuate in Japan as Typhoon Dujuan approached the Tokyo region, bringing the threat of torrential rain, flooding and landslides. The powerful storm was moving towards the Kanto region on September 21, with authorities warning that conditions could deteriorate rapidly. The Japan Meteorological Agency said rainfall could become particularly intense as the typhoon moved north, with some areas potentially experiencing record-breaking rainfall. Dujuan was producing winds of around 144 kilometres per hour as it moved to approximately 130 kilometres south of Katsuura City in Chiba Prefecture. Although the storm was not expected to make a direct landfall in central Tokyo, its extensive rain bands were affecting a wide area around the capital. More Than 1.6 Million People Urged to Evacuate Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency said more than 1.6 million residents in and around Tokyo had been urged to evacuate from areas at risk. The evacuation advice was not mandatory, but authorities warned residents to take the threat from flooding and landslides seriously. Landslide warnings were issued for Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa and Shizuoka prefectures as heavy rain continued across parts of eastern Japan. Officials were particularly concerned about locations where already saturated ground could become unstable following prolonged rainfall. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that the total amount of rain falling through September 22 could exceed the average rainfall normally recorded during the entire month of September in some locations. The agency also warned about the possibility of linear rain bands forming over the Kanto and central Japan regions. These narrow areas of intense rainfall can remain over the same location for several hours and significantly increase the risk of flash flooding and landslides. Air Travel Hit by the Storm The approaching typhoon caused widespread disruption to air travel. Japan Airlines cancelled 135 flights, while All Nippon Airways cancelled another 140 flights as the storm approached the Tokyo area. The cancellations affected both passengers travelling within Japan and people using Tokyo’s airports to connect with international destinations. Travellers were advised to check directly with their airlines before travelling because further cancellations and delays were possible as weather conditions changed. The disruption extended beyond aviation. Railway operators in Tokyo and neighbouring areas suspended services on some lines as heavy rain and strong winds created difficult operating conditions. The transport disruption demonstrated how quickly a major typhoon can affect movement across the wider Tokyo metropolitan area. Even when the centre of a storm remains offshore, heavy rainfall and flooding can cause problems across roads, railways and airport connections. Flooding and Power Outages Reported The storm had already caused flooding in several locations as rain intensified. Images from Kamakura showed water covering roads around the popular tourist area near Kamakura Station. Kamakura Mayor Takashi Matsuo warned residents that travelling by car was dangerous because flooding had affected different parts of the city. Other areas around Tokyo and Chiba also experienced flooding as rivers and drainage systems came under pressure from the heavy rainfall. Thousands of households were also without electricity. More than 9,000 households in areas near Tokyo had lost power as the storm brought strong winds and heavy rain. The combination of flooding, power outages and transport cancellations created difficulties for residents and visitors alike. Authorities continued to monitor rivers, roads and vulnerable areas as the typhoon moved through the region. Events Cancelled Across Japan Typhoon Dujuan also disrupted a number of major events. The Tokyo Game Show, one of the world’s largest video game trade events, was forced to close early on its final scheduled day because of the approaching storm. Events in Chiba were also affected. A major outdoor music festival and a baseball game scheduled to take place in the prefecture were cancelled because of the weather conditions. The storm also affected sporting events elsewhere in Japan. At the Asian Games being held in Aichi Prefecture, organisers postponed an equestrian competition because of the approaching weather. The disruption illustrated the wider impact of the storm beyond areas directly threatened by flooding. Events involving large numbers of spectators can be particularly difficult to operate safely when severe weather affects transport networks and surrounding infrastructure. Prime Minister’s Travel Delayed The typhoon also affected the schedule of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, whose planned departure for New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly was delayed by four hours because of the storm. The delay was another indication of the disruption caused by the weather as authorities dealt with deteriorating conditions around the capital and other parts of eastern Japan. While the typhoon’s strongest winds remained offshore, its associated rain bands were capable of producing dangerous conditions over a much wider area. Officials therefore continued to urge residents in vulnerable locations to pay attention to evacuation information and local weather warnings. Warnings Over Further Heavy Rain The Japan Meteorological Agency said that heavy rain could continue even as Typhoon Dujuan moved north. Takuya Hosomi of the agency warned that rainfall could remain a significant threat in areas where weather warnings were already in place. The possibility of concentrated rain bands was particularly concerning because these systems can produce extremely heavy rainfall over a relatively small area. Such conditions can cause rivers to rise rapidly and trigger flash floods or landslides with limited warning. Residents in areas covered by evacuation advice were therefore encouraged to move to safer locations before conditions became more difficult. Authorities also warned people against unnecessary travel, particularly through flooded areas or locations vulnerable to landslides. Typhoon Causes Widespread Disruption Typhoon Dujuan’s approach demonstrated the broad impact that a major storm can have on Japan’s infrastructure and daily life. Flights were cancelled, railway services were disrupted, events were called off and thousands of homes lost power. The immediate concern was the continuing threat from heavy rain rather than the storm’s winds alone. With saturated ground and rivers already under pressure, further rainfall could increase

Hundreds of Deer Found in Japan’s Southern Alps, Raising Concerns Over Damage to Mountain Ecosystem A large herd of Japanese deer has been discovered in a remote area of Japan’s Southern Alps, with the sighting raising concerns about the growing impact of the animals on the fragile mountain ecosystem. The herd was spotted during the summer on the border between Ina City and Oshika Village in Nagano Prefecture. Aerial photographs showed what appeared to be several hundred deer gathered across the slopes of Mount Niji, at an elevation of around 1,900 metres. The discovery has attracted attention because the animals were found at a relatively high altitude in an area that is difficult for people to reach. Officials and researchers are concerned that the expansion of deer into higher parts of the Southern Alps could have consequences extending well beyond damage to individual plants. A Herd of Hundreds Spotted From the Air The large concentration of deer was identified through aerial photography conducted in the Southern Alps. The animals were seen covering a section of the mountain slope, making the scale of the herd apparent from above. The herd was estimated to contain between 200 and 300 Japanese sika deer. The sighting took place on the northern slope of Mount Niji, a mountain rising to approximately 1,900 metres above sea level. The location is on the boundary between Ina City and Oshika Village in Nagano Prefecture. Its remote position makes the animals particularly difficult to manage because vehicles cannot easily reach the area. The discovery was significant not simply because of the number of deer visible at one location, but because it provided evidence that large numbers of the animals have established themselves in higher-altitude areas of the Southern Alps. Deer Numbers Have Increased Across Nagano The Southern Alps are already an area where Japanese deer have become a major wildlife-management concern. Deer numbers in Nagano Prefecture have increased substantially over the past decade, despite efforts to control the population. The estimated deer population in Nagano has grown by tens of thousands over that period. The animals have expanded their range into areas where their presence can affect forests, vegetation and alpine environments. Japanese sika deer are native to Japan, but problems can arise when their population becomes too large for the available vegetation and habitat to support without significant environmental effects. In the Southern Alps, the concern is particularly serious because high-altitude environments contain plants and vegetation that can be vulnerable to repeated grazing. The mountain ecosystem is also exposed to other pressures, including severe weather and changes in climate. Alpine Plants Face Increasing Pressure One of the principal concerns associated with the expanding deer population is damage to alpine plants. Deer feed on vegetation, and repeated grazing can reduce the amount and variety of plants growing in an area. The Southern Alps contain distinctive mountain vegetation that has adapted to the harsh conditions found at high elevations. Plants growing in these environments can have limited opportunities to recover when they are repeatedly eaten. The effect can become more pronounced when large numbers of deer repeatedly use the same areas. As vegetation is consumed, some plant species can become less abundant while areas of exposed soil become increasingly common. The problem is therefore not necessarily limited to the loss of individual plants. Changes in vegetation can alter the wider structure of a mountain ecosystem and affect other organisms that depend on that vegetation. Concerns Extend to the Mountain’s Ability to Hold Water Officials are also concerned about the potential effect of deer on the Southern Alps’ ability to retain water. When deer repeatedly feed on vegetation and damage young trees and other plants, the protective vegetation covering the ground can be reduced. Vegetation plays an important role in mountain environments. Plants and their roots help stabilise soil, slow the movement of water and contribute to the ability of slopes to retain moisture. When vegetation is removed or the ground is repeatedly disturbed by animals, more soil can become exposed. Heavy rainfall can then wash soil downslope more easily. This has raised concerns that the increase in deer could contribute to erosion and potentially increase the risk of landslides in vulnerable areas. Research published in 2026 by scientists working in the northern part of the Southern Alps has also examined the relationship between deer activity and soil erosion. The study area in Nagano is a high-density deer region, and the researchers found that disturbance by deer can play an important role in mountain soil erosion. A Difficult Place to Control the Deer One of the biggest problems facing authorities is the difficulty of reaching the area where the large herd was discovered. The mountainous terrain means that vehicles cannot simply be driven into the area. This makes conventional methods of capturing or controlling deer considerably more difficult than they would be in areas closer to roads and settlements. The animals are also able to move through steep and rugged terrain that can be difficult and potentially dangerous for people to access. The result is a difficult wildlife-management problem. Authorities can identify areas where deer numbers are high, but reaching the animals and reducing their numbers can require considerable resources and specialist knowledge. The remote location of the herd on Mount Niji therefore adds another layer of difficulty to efforts to manage the growing deer population in Nagano. The Southern Alps Are an Important Natural Environment Japan’s Southern Alps form one of the country’s major mountain ranges and contain extensive forests, alpine environments and high-elevation habitats. The area is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Its high mountains create different environments at different elevations, ranging from forests at lower levels to alpine vegetation closer to the highest peaks. Changes to one part of that environment can therefore have consequences elsewhere. When grazing pressure increases, vegetation can change, which can then influence soil conditions and the availability of food and shelter for other species. Conservation officials are consequently

Japan Weather Agency Warns of Disasters as Typhoon Dujuan Heads Toward Tokyo Japan’s weather agency warned residents across wide areas of the country to prepare for potentially dangerous weather as Typhoon Dujuan moved toward eastern Japan, with the storm expected to approach the Tokyo region during the country’s five-day holiday period. The Japan Meteorological Agency, or JMA, urged people to remain alert for landslides, flooding and other rain-related disasters as the large typhoon moved northward over the Pacific. The storm was expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of eastern and central Japan. The warning was particularly significant for the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo, as well as the Izu Islands, the Tokai region and parts of the Pacific coast of Tohoku. Forecasters warned that rainfall could begin increasing before the centre of the typhoon reached its closest point to the Japanese mainland. Typhoon Dujuan Moves Toward Eastern Japan Typhoon Dujuan was the 25th typhoon of the year and had been moving northward after approaching Japan’s Ogasawara island chain. By the weekend, the storm was positioned south of Japan and was expected to continue moving toward the Kanto region. The JMA said Dujuan could approach the Izu Islands and the Kanto region between Monday afternoon and early Tuesday morning before moving away toward the Pacific waters east of the Tohoku region. At the time of the warning, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 35 metres per second and maximum gusts of up to 50 metres per second. Its central atmospheric pressure was 970 hectopascals as it moved northward over waters south of the Tokai region. The forecast track meant that the storm did not necessarily have to pass directly over Tokyo to create dangerous conditions in the capital and surrounding areas. Heavy rain, strong winds and coastal conditions can affect a much wider area than the centre of a typhoon. Heavy Rain Could Begin Before the Typhoon Arrives One of the concerns highlighted by Japanese forecasters was that rainfall could begin increasing before the main part of the storm arrived. Thick clouds to the north of Dujuan were expected to produce rain ahead of the typhoon itself. JMA forecaster Yoshikazu Yano warned that this could increase cumulative rainfall totals. That is important because the danger from a typhoon is not determined solely by the strongest winds or the point where the storm makes its closest approach. Rain falling over several hours can saturate the ground and increase the risk of landslides, while heavy rainfall can cause rivers to rise and flooding to occur in low-lying areas. The agency therefore urged people to pay attention to weather information before the typhoon reached its closest point to Japan rather than waiting until conditions had already deteriorated. Landslides and Flooding Among Main Concerns The JMA warned that landslides and flooding could become serious problems as the storm approached. The risk was particularly relevant in areas where heavy rain had already fallen or where additional rainfall could quickly overwhelm drainage systems and rivers. Japan’s mountainous terrain makes landslides a recurring danger during periods of exceptionally heavy rainfall. When the ground becomes saturated, slopes can become unstable, potentially sending mud, rocks and other debris downhill. Flooding can also occur rapidly in urban areas when rainfall exceeds the capacity of drainage systems. Low-lying locations and areas near rivers can be especially vulnerable when large amounts of rain fall over a short period. The combination of heavy rain and strong winds also creates the potential for wider disruption. Fallen trees, damaged infrastructure and flooding can affect roads and railways even when a typhoon does not make a direct landfall in a particular city. Tokyo and the Kanto Region on Alert Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto region were among the areas being closely monitored because of the storm’s expected path. The Kanto region contains one of the world’s largest metropolitan populations, meaning that severe weather can have consequences for millions of people and for a huge transport network. The weather agency warned that public transportation could be disrupted as the typhoon approached. Heavy rain and strong winds can lead railway operators to reduce services, suspend operations or cancel trains when conditions become unsafe. Road travel can also be affected by flooding, fallen trees and strong winds. Highways and other major roads may be closed temporarily when authorities determine that conditions pose a danger to drivers. For people travelling through Tokyo and neighbouring prefectures, the storm therefore presented a risk of delays and cancellations even if the typhoon’s centre remained offshore. Five-Day Holiday Adds to Transport Concerns The timing of Typhoon Dujuan was another concern because the storm was approaching during a five-day holiday period in Japan. The holiday, extending through Wednesday, was expected to bring increased travel as people took trips or returned to their hometowns. The JMA advised people with leisure plans or journeys during the holiday to remain flexible and consider changing their plans depending on the weather situation. The warning reflected the possibility that transportation disruptions could make journeys more difficult even outside the areas directly affected by the strongest weather. When a major storm approaches Japan, disruption can spread through the national transport network. A railway closure in one region can affect trains travelling much farther away, while airport and highway disruptions can create additional delays for travellers. For visitors travelling around Japan during the holiday, checking railway, airline and local government information was therefore particularly important as the typhoon approached. Strong Winds and High Waves Expected Heavy rain was not the only threat associated with Dujuan. The JMA also warned of strong winds and high waves along affected coastal areas. The storm’s maximum gusts were forecast to reach 50 metres per second at the time of the weekend warning. Such winds can make outdoor conditions dangerous and can cause damage to structures, trees and other objects. Coastal areas faced additional risks from high waves and rough seas. The agency specifically urged caution in the Izu Islands and along

Shizuoka to Require Climbers to Submit Plans for Off-Season Mount Fuji Climbs Shizuoka Prefecture is preparing new measures for people who attempt to climb Mount Fuji outside the official climbing season, including a requirement to submit a climbing plan before starting their ascent. The new system is expected to begin in autumn 2027 and is intended to reduce accidents involving climbers who venture onto Japan’s highest mountain when conditions are considerably more difficult than during the summer climbing season. The prefecture is also considering measures that could make some off-season climbers responsible for the cost of rescue operations, as authorities on both sides of Mount Fuji respond to an increase in poorly prepared climbers becoming stranded on the mountain. New Rules Planned for Off-Season Climbers Shizuoka Governor Yasutomo Suzuki announced the plans on September 18 during a prefectural assembly session. Under the proposed system, people intending to climb Mount Fuji during the closed season would have to submit details of their planned ascent in advance. The requirement is being introduced as authorities seek to obtain more information about who is attempting off-season climbs and whether they have made appropriate preparations for the conditions they are likely to encounter. The prefecture has not yet provided all of the details of how the notification system will operate. Further consideration will be required before the new rules take effect in autumn 2027. Officials are also examining how the information submitted by climbers could be used to improve safety and coordinate responses when people encounter difficulties on the mountain. Mount Fuji’s Official Climbing Season Has Ended Mount Fuji’s official climbing season runs during the summer, when the main trails and facilities are available to climbers. On the Shizuoka side, the official season ended on September 10 this year. Outside the official season, conditions on the 3,776-metre mountain can become much more severe. Temperatures can fall sharply, snow and ice can make trails hazardous, and strong winds can create dangerous conditions near the summit. Mountain huts and other facilities that support climbers during the summer are also generally closed during the off-season. First-aid facilities are unavailable, while toilets on the mountain cannot be relied upon. The official Mount Fuji climbing website therefore strongly discourages climbing outside the regular season. Its guidelines state that people attempting an off-season ascent must be fully prepared for the conditions and submit a mountain climbing plan. Authorities Concerned About Unprepared Climbers The new Shizuoka measures come after a series of incidents involving people who attempted to climb Mount Fuji outside the official season and subsequently needed assistance. Some off-season climbers have become stranded after encountering difficult weather or trail conditions. Rescue operations can be particularly challenging during the winter months because of the mountain environment and the risks faced by rescue personnel themselves. The authorities’ concern is not simply the number of people attempting to climb the mountain. It is also whether those climbers have the equipment, experience and preparation necessary to deal with conditions at high altitude. The official Mount Fuji guidance makes a distinction between properly prepared mountaineers and casual hikers. People who are not adequately equipped or experienced are strongly advised not to climb above the fifth station outside the official season. Climbing Plans Are Already Part of Fuji Guidance The idea of requiring an off-season climbing plan is not entirely new. Mount Fuji’s existing safety guidelines already call on climbers attempting an ascent outside the summer season to create and submit a mountain climbing plan. Those guidelines are intended to help reduce accidents and ensure that people understand the additional responsibilities involved in attempting an off-season climb. Fully prepared climbers are also expected to carry their own portable toilets because the mountain’s regular toilet facilities are unavailable outside the climbing season. They must take their waste back down the mountain with them. The proposed Shizuoka system would give these requirements a more formal administrative framework, with climbers expected to notify authorities before undertaking their ascent. Yamanashi Is Introducing Similar Measures Shizuoka is not the only prefecture tightening its approach to off-season Mount Fuji climbing. The mountain straddles both Shizuoka and neighbouring Yamanashi Prefecture, and authorities on the two sides have been discussing measures to reduce accidents. Yamanashi announced earlier in September that it plans to charge some climbers for helicopter rescue operations during the off-season. The system is expected to begin in autumn 2027. Yamanashi is also introducing a system requiring people to submit notifications before climbing to higher parts of the mountain during the closed season. Under the planned approach, climbers who submit the required information and demonstrate that they have taken appropriate safety precautions could have rescue charges reduced or waived if they later require assistance. The precise cost of Yamanashi’s helicopter rescue operations has not yet been established. Officials have indicated that the system in neighbouring Saitama Prefecture, where mountain rescue helicopter operations can cost about 8,000 yen for every five minutes, could serve as a reference. Shizuoka Is Also Considering Rescue Charges Shizuoka has not yet decided whether to introduce a similar system for charging climbers who require helicopter rescue during the off-season. Governor Suzuki said the prefecture would consider measures including charging hikers for operations involving disaster-prevention helicopters. The issue will be examined alongside the new climbing-plan requirement and other safety measures. The prefecture is also expected to coordinate with Yamanashi and other organisations because the two prefectures share responsibility for managing Mount Fuji and dealing with the problems created by off-season climbing. Any rescue-charge system would have to take account of the circumstances surrounding an incident, including whether a climber had followed the required procedures and taken appropriate precautions before setting out. Why Off-Season Mount Fuji Climbing Is Dangerous Mount Fuji’s appearance can make an ascent seem relatively straightforward during periods of good weather, but conditions outside the official season are very different from those experienced during summer. The upper slopes can be covered with snow and ice, while strong winds can make movement extremely difficult. Weather can also

Travelers Crowd Airports and Stations as Japan’s Five-Day Silver Week Holiday Begins Airports and major railway stations across Japan were crowded on Saturday as millions of people began travelling for the country’s Silver Week holiday period, which this year provides five consecutive days off for the first time in 11 years. The five-day holiday runs from September 19 through September 23, combining the weekend with three national holidays. The unusually long break has prompted large numbers of people to travel for holidays, family visits and trips to events taking place around the country. Crowds were visible at major transport hubs from the beginning of the holiday period, with passengers carrying luggage filling airport terminals and railway stations as they headed away from Japan’s largest cities. Five Consecutive Days Off Draw Travelers Across Japan Silver Week is created when several holidays in September fall close enough together to produce a longer break. In 2026, September 21 is Respect for the Aged Day and September 23 is the Autumnal Equinox Day, while September 22 becomes a holiday between the two dates under Japan’s holiday system. Combined with the weekend of September 19 and 20, the arrangement produces five consecutive days without a normal working day for many people. The 2026 holiday period is particularly notable because the country has not had a five-day Silver Week stretch since 2015. The prospect of five consecutive days off encouraged many people to make longer domestic trips than would normally be possible during a standard weekend. Travel demand was therefore concentrated around major transport hubs as people left cities such as Tokyo and Osaka for destinations around the country. Airports Fill With Holiday Travelers Airports were among the busiest locations at the beginning of the holiday period. Passengers arrived with suitcases and other luggage as domestic and international travel increased. Tokyo’s Haneda Airport was among the major airports experiencing heavy passenger traffic. The airport serves a large number of domestic routes, making it one of the principal departure points for people travelling to other parts of Japan during national holidays. Narita Airport was also expected to experience increased demand as people travelled internationally during the extended break. The combination of domestic holiday travel and international trips contributed to higher passenger numbers across the country’s main aviation hubs. Airlines had been preparing for the increased demand, with bookings concentrated around the beginning and end of the five-day period. Travelers were advised to allow additional time at airports because of the expected crowds. Railway Stations Also Packed Major railway stations were similarly busy as travelers began journeys by train. Tokyo Station, one of the country’s most important long-distance rail hubs, was crowded with passengers heading towards destinations across Japan. The Tokaido Shinkansen connecting Tokyo with Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka was expected to be particularly busy because it provides one of the country’s main high-speed links between eastern and western Japan. Other Shinkansen routes were also experiencing strong demand as people travelled north, west and south from Tokyo. The extended holiday encouraged many passengers to make longer journeys that would normally require taking additional days away from work. The scale of demand meant that travelers using the bullet trains were encouraged to make reservations in advance rather than relying on finding an available seat at the station. Nozomi Trains Operating With Reserved Seats Only One of the measures introduced for the holiday period was the temporary use of reserved seating on all Nozomi services on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen routes. The arrangement applied from September 18 through September 23, covering the period around the five-day holiday. Passengers travelling on Nozomi services therefore needed to have a reserved seat rather than relying on the non-reserved cars normally available on these trains. The measure was intended to help manage the exceptionally high demand expected during Silver Week. Nozomi trains provide the fastest regular services between Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka and are heavily used during major holiday periods. Passengers without reservations could therefore not simply arrive at the station and board a non-reserved Nozomi car as they might on a normal day. First Day Expected to Be Particularly Busy September 19, the first day of the five-day holiday, was expected to see particularly heavy outbound travel as people left major cities for destinations across Japan. The concentration of travel was a direct consequence of the unusual length of the holiday. Because many people had five consecutive days available, there was greater scope for taking longer trips rather than simply making short weekend journeys. Travelers heading away from Tokyo were expected to contribute to congestion on Shinkansen services and major roads, while airports faced increased demand from passengers taking domestic and overseas trips. The return journey was expected to produce another major peak towards the end of the holiday, particularly on September 22 and 23 as people prepared to return to work and school. Highways Also Expected to Be Congested The holiday rush was not limited to railways and airports. Japan’s expressway operators were also warning motorists about substantial traffic congestion during the five-day period. NEXCO companies forecast 279 instances of traffic congestion exceeding 10 kilometres nationwide between September 19 and September 23. In the Tokyo metropolitan area, outbound traffic was expected to reach its peak around September 20, while inbound traffic was forecast to be heaviest on September 21 and 22. The forecasts reflected the tendency for people travelling by car to leave major urban areas at the beginning of a long holiday and return shortly before the break ends. Motorists were therefore encouraged to check traffic forecasts before setting out and consider travelling outside the busiest periods where possible. No Highway Holiday Discounts During Silver Week Another consideration for motorists was the absence of the usual highway holiday discounts during the Silver Week period. The discounts were not being applied during the five-day holiday in an effort to prevent additional demand from contributing to already expected congestion. People planning to drive were therefore advised to take the toll