Mount Fuji's Shadow: Fujikawaguchiko Tackles Tourist Surge with Innovative Screen Solution

May 06, 2024 asia No Comments

Fujikawaguchiko, a picturesque town nestled in the northern foothills of Mount Fuji, has found itself grappling with a surge in tourism. Tourists, particularly from abroad, flock to this area seeking the perfect shot of the legendary mountain. However, the influx of visitors has raised concerns among residents regarding their behavior, including littering, traffic violations, and trespassing on private properties.

One phenomenon that contributed to the tourist influx was the viral sensation known as "Mt. Fuji Lawson." The phenomenon was sparked by a photo capturing Mount Fuji seemingly perched atop a local convenience store, attracting hordes of tourists to the area. This increased foot traffic exacerbated existing issues of overcrowding and inconvenience for residents.

In response to these challenges, the town has devised an unconventional solution: the construction of a large black screen near the popular photo spot. The screen, slated for completion in mid-May, aims to block the view of Mount Fuji almost entirely. The objective is to discourage overcrowding, prevent tourists from obstructing narrow sidewalks, and alleviate the inconvenience experienced by locals.

The inspiration for this approach draws parallels to Venice's recent pilot program, where day-trippers are charged an entry fee to address overcrowding in historic cities. Fujikawaguchiko's implementation of a black mesh net reflects a similar ethos of balancing tourism with the preservation of local livelihoods and environmental integrity. So, if you plan to visit Fujikawaguchiko soon, expect to encounter this giant screen—a symbol of the town's efforts to maintain the allure of Mount Fuji while ensuring a sustainable and livable environment for its residents.

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Japan's aging population is posing significant economic challenges

October 14, 2023 asia No Comments

As of 2023, Japan is grappling with a significant demographic challenge that is negatively impacting its economy. The country's population is aging rapidly, leading to a decline in the labor force and consequently, a decrease in productivity and economic output.

Japan ageing 

Japan's population in 2023 is estimated at approximately 123.3 million people, making up about 1.53% of the total global population. However, this figure represents a decrease from previous years. For instance, as of January 1, 2023, Japan's population stood at 125.4 million, indicating a drop of around 511,000 from the previous year. This trend of a shrinking population is expected to continue, with projections for 2025 and 2030 showing further decreases.

The median age in Japan is relatively high at 49.1 years, reflecting the country's aging population. This demographic shift has significant implications for the country's economy. As the proportion of elderly people increases, so does the cost of public pensions, healthcare, and welfare services for the aged. In the early 1970s, these costs amounted to only about 6% of Japan's national income, but they have risen significantly since then.

The aging population also affects the labor market. As the share of older workers increases, the entry of younger workers into the labor force declines, leading to negative labor force growth. This situation results in a shortage of qualified workers, making it more difficult for businesses to fill in-demand roles. The declining numbers of young people in the labor force have led to a drop in production and innovation, and therefore a decrease in Japan's manufacturing exports as a share of global exports.

Moreover, an aging society is characterized by declining labor productivity and rising price levels, which diminishes the international competitiveness of the economy. As a result, Japan is exporting fewer goods and services and tending to import more instead, leading to a decline in the current account balance.

Japan's aging population is posing significant economic challenges. The country is experiencing a decrease in its labor force, a rise in public spending on the elderly, and a decline in international competitiveness. These factors are contributing to a negative impact on Japan's economy.

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A NEW VIRUS OUTBREAK IN INDIA

September 23, 2023 asia No Comments

The Nipah virus outbreak in India has raised concerns among neighboring countries, including Nepal. The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus that was initially identified in 1999 during an epidemic in Malaysia. It is believed to be transmitted to humans from fruit bats, which serve as the primary hosts of the virus. Additionally, person-to-person transmission can occur through close contact with infected individuals. The virus manifests in a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, vomiting, and respiratory issues. In severe cases, it can lead to fatal encephalitis.

In September 2023, an outbreak of the Nipah virus was reported in the Indian state of Kerala. This outbreak has raised concerns among neighboring countries, Nepal included. As of September 19, 2023, two fatalities had been recorded in India, with fears of many more individuals carrying the disease.

Transmission of the Nipah virus occurs through direct contact with infected animals, such as bats or pigs, or their body fluids (such as blood, urine, or saliva). Consuming food products contaminated with the virus, such as raw date palm sap or fruit that has been contaminated with saliva or urine from infected animals, can also lead to transmission

Medical professionals in Nepal have issued warnings regarding the potential outbreak of the Nipah virus in the country. Given the presence of fruit bats, the primary hosts of the virus, in Nepal, there is a genuine concern regarding human transmission. Consequently, the Nepalese government has issued an alert and implemented preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.

The Indian government has implemented various measures to effectively contain the outbreak of the Nipah virus. These measures include the establishment of isolation wards and the implementation of contact tracing protocols to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the virus. Additionally, the government has issued public advisories to raise awareness and educate the population on preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with bats and refraining from consuming fruits that may have been contaminated by them.

The outbreak of the Nipah virus in India has garnered significant international attention, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to closely monitor the situation. In recognition of the severity of the situation, the WHO has extended its support to the Indian government by offering technical assistance to aid in the containment efforts. Furthermore, this outbreak has underscored the urgent need for increased investment in disease surveillance and response systems within the region.

The outbreak of the Nipah virus in India has raised concerns among neighboring countries, including Nepal. This zoonotic virus, which can be transmitted from fruit bats to humans, has prompted the Indian government to take decisive measures to contain its spread. The WHO's vigilant monitoring of the situation further emphasizes the importance of bolstering disease surveillance and response systems in the region to effectively prevent future outbreaks.

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Iphone 15 goes on sale in Dubai

September 22, 2023 asia No Comments

The highly anticipated iPhone 15 series was released for sale in Dubai on September 22, 2023, resulting in a substantial number of individuals forming queues outside the Apple store located in Dubai Mall, eager to be the first to acquire the latest models. The iPhone 15 series encompasses the standard iPhone 15 as well as the top-tier iPhone 15 Pro Max, with prices ranging from Dh3,399 to Dh6,799. Notably, the Pro range of the iPhone 15 series has garnered a significant portion of pre-orders in the UAE, indicating a projected continuation of robust sales for Apple's newest phone.

Outlined below are pertinent details regarding the iPhone 15 series' availability in Dubai:

- **Pricing:** The iPhone 15 series can be obtained in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, commencing at a price of AED 3399.

- **Variants:** The iPhone 15 series encompasses the standard iPhone 15 and the top-tier iPhone 15 Pro Max.

- **Features:** The iPhone 15 series boasts a novel A16 Bionic chip, enhanced camera technology, and an updated design featuring an enlarged screen.

- **Trade-in offer:** Customers have the opportunity to receive a discount ranging from AED 100 to AED 2385 when trading in an iPhone 7 or a more recent model, specifically applicable to the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max.

- **Financing:** Customers desiring to purchase the iPhone 15 series have the option of availing 0% financing.

- **Savings:** In Dubai, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is obtainable at a starting price of Rs 1,15,133, which is comparatively more affordable than its price in the United States.

The introduction of the iPhone 15 series in Dubai has elicited considerable enthusiasm among Apple enthusiasts, with a multitude eagerly anticipating the acquisition of the most recent models. The iPhone 15 series encompasses an array of novel and enhanced attributes, such as the incorporation of the advanced A16 Bionic chip, upgraded camera technology, and a redesigned structure boasting a larger screen. Notably, the Pro range within the iPhone 15 series has garnered significant popularity, with sales projected to maintain robust figures within the United Arab Emirates.

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JAPAN FORMALLY REQUEST CHINA TO REMOVE BUOY NEAR DISPUTED ISLAND

September 20, 2023 asia No Comments

Japan has formally requested that China remove a buoy that was discovered floating in the sea near the disputed Senkaku Islands, also known as the Diaoyu Islands in China. The Senkaku Islands dispute pertains to a territorial disagreement over a group of uninhabited islands in Japan. The recent incident involving the buoy has further exacerbated tensions between the two countries, as both claim sovereignty over the islands.

The Japanese government has asserted that the buoy was deployed within Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which is a maritime area where a country has special rights regarding the exploration and utilization of marine resources. Japan contends that the presence of the buoy violates the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to which both countries are signatories.

In September 2012, the Japanese government acquired three of the disputed islands from their private owner, a move that was met with significant protests in China. While Japan viewed the purchase as a means of preventing a more provocative attempt by Tokyo governor Shintaro Ishihara to purchase the islands for infrastructure development, China perceived it as an effort to assert Japanese sovereignty over the islands.

The dispute over the Senkaku Islands has been a longstanding matter of contention between Japan and China, with both nations asserting their historical and legal rights to the islands. The United States, as a crucial ally of Japan, has affirmed that the islands fall within the purview of the 1960 Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the two countries, on the condition that Japan maintains effective administrative control over them.

The recent request made by Japan for China to remove the buoy from its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near the Senkaku Islands serves to underscore the ongoing tensions in the region. Both nations have been augmenting their military presence in the area, regularly conducting maritime and air patrols, and engaging in verbal disputes regarding the sovereignty of the islands.

The situation in the East China Sea remains a potential flashpoint for conflict between Japan and China. As these two nations persist in asserting their claims over the disputed islands, the international community will be closely monitoring any further escalations and potential resolutions to this protracted territorial dispute.

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Eswatini Receives Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen for a Four-Day Visit

September 06, 2023 asia No Comments

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's historic four-day visit to Eswatini marked the first by a Taiwanese president to the African nation since 1998. She received a warm welcome from Eswatini's King Mswati III and government officials upon her arrival at the airport. Subsequently, she engaged in meetings with the king and other members of the royal family in the capital, Mbabane.

During her stay, Tsai's agenda included discussions on ways to enhance the bilateral relationship between Taiwan and Eswatini, as well as meetings with business leaders and civil society groups. This visit carries added significance due to China's increasing diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, with the country losing several allies in recent years.

Eswatini stands as one of the few African countries still recognizing Taiwan, maintaining diplomatic relations since 1968. Tsai's visit serves as a clear demonstration of Taiwan's unwavering commitment to its remaining allies and sends a message to China that it won't yield to pressure.

Tsai's visit has raised concerns in China, which regards Taiwan as a breakaway province and has asserted its intent to reunify, even by force if necessary. China's efforts to isolate Taiwan through various means have been met with resistance, exemplified by Tsai's visit to Eswatini.

Beyond political implications, Tsai's visit is expected to strengthen bilateral relations by exploring opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, and education. Meeting with business leaders and civil society groups in Eswatini further solidifies these ties and promotes Taiwan's democratic values and freedom.

Overall, Tsai's visit underscores Taiwan's resilience in upholding democratic principles and maintaining its global presence. It serves as a reminder that Taiwan will persist in building respectful, cooperative relationships with nations worldwide while defending its values against external pressure.

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North Korea: Kim Jong Un fires top general

August 11, 2023 asia No Comments

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has fired his top military general and ordered the country's armed forces to "gird for war". The general, Ri Yong Gil, was reportedly fired for "serious breach of discipline". Kim Jong Un has also ordered the military to be on high alert and to prepare for a possible conflict with the United States.

The firing of Ri Yong Gil is a significant development, as he was one of the most powerful figures in North Korea's military. He was the commander of the Korean People's Army's (KPA) Strategic Force, which is responsible for the country's nuclear and missile programs.

The reasons for Ri Yong Gil's firing are unclear, but it is possible that he was purged for disloyalty to Kim Jong Un. It is also possible that he was fired as a scapegoat for the failure of North Korea's recent missile tests.

In any case, the firing of Ri Yong Gil is a sign of Kim Jong Un's growing paranoia and insecurity. He is clearly worried about the possibility of a US military strike against North Korea, and he is taking steps to ensure that his military is prepared for war.

Kim Jong Un's order to the military to "gird for war" is also a sign of his belligerence. He is clearly testing the limits of the US's patience, and he is trying to see how far he can push the envelope without provoking a military response.

The situation on the Korean Peninsula is therefore very tense, and there is a real risk of war. Kim Jong Un is a volatile and unpredictable leader, and he is capable of anything. The international community must therefore be prepared for the worst, and it must work to de-escalate the situation before it is too late.

In addition to firing Ri Yong Gil, Kim Jong Un has also made a number of other changes to the North Korean military. He has appointed a new chief of the KPA General Staff, and he has also promoted a number of younger officers. These changes are likely an attempt to consolidate Kim Jong Un's power and to ensure that the military is loyal to him.

Kim Jong Un's actions are a reminder that North Korea is a dangerous and unpredictable country. The international community must continue to pressure North Korea to denuclearize and to abandon its aggressive military posture. The alternative is a nuclear war that could have devastating consequences for the entire world.

Here are some additional details about the situation:

• Ri Yong Gil was reportedly fired for "serious breach of discipline". This could mean anything from corruption to disloyalty to Kim Jong Un.
• Kim Jong Un has ordered the military to be on high alert and to prepare for a possible conflict with the United States. This is a clear sign that Kim Jong Un is preparing for war.
• The international community is concerned about the situation on the Korean Peninsula. They are urging Kim Jong Un to denuclearize and to abandon his aggressive military posture.
• The situation on the Korean Peninsula is very tense, and there is a real risk of war. Kim Jong Un is a volatile and unpredictable leader, and he is capable of anything.
• The international community must therefore be prepared for the worst, and it must work to de-escalate the situation before it is too late.

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Australian journalist Cheng Lei says she has not seen a tree in three years

August 11, 2023 asia No Comments

Cheng Lei, an Australian journalist who has been jailed in China for three years without trial, has released a rare message saying that she has not seen a tree in three years.

Cheng, a former business anchor for China's state broadcaster CGTN, was arrested in August 2020 on suspicion of illegally supplying state secrets overseas. She has been held incommunicado ever since, and her trial has been repeatedly delayed.

In her message, which was dictated to diplomats and released by her partner Nick Coyle, Cheng said that she is being held in a small cell with no natural light. She said that she is allowed to exercise for only one hour a day, and that she is not allowed to have any contact with the outside world.

"I miss the sun. In my cell, the sunlight shines through the window but I can stand in it for only 10 hours a year," Cheng said. "I haven't seen a tree in three years."

Cheng also said that she is being subjected to psychological pressure and that she is afraid of being tortured. She said that she has been forced to make a confession, but that she denies the charges against her.

"I am innocent," Cheng said. "I have never done anything to harm China."

Cheng's case has been widely condemned by human rights groups, who say that she is being held hostage for political reasons. The Australian government has also called for her release, but China has refused to grant her bail or a trial date.

Cheng's message is a reminder of the harsh conditions that many journalists face in China. China is one of the most repressive countries in the world for journalists, and many journalists have been imprisoned or even killed for their work.

Cheng's case is also a reminder of the importance of press freedom. A free press is essential for a healthy democracy, and it is important to stand up for journalists who are being persecuted for their work.

In addition to the physical and psychological abuse that she has suffered, Cheng has also been denied access to her family and lawyers. She has not been able to see her two young children since her arrest, and she has only been able to speak to her lawyers a few times.

Cheng's case is a clear example of China's disregard for the rule of law and its commitment to silencing dissent. She is being held without charge and without trial, and she is being denied basic human rights.

The international community must continue to pressure China to release Cheng Lei and to respect the rule of law. A free and independent press is essential for a healthy democracy, and Cheng Lei is a symbol of the fight for press freedom in China.

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China releases TV documentary showcasing army's ability to attack Taiwan

August 07, 2023 asia No Comments

China has released a TV documentary that showcases its army's ability to attack Taiwan. The documentary, titled "The Great Bay Exercise," was aired on state television on July 1, 2023.

The documentary shows footage of Chinese military exercises, including live-fire drills and amphibious landings. It also features interviews with military experts who discuss China's plans for a potential attack on Taiwan.

The documentary has raised concerns in Taiwan and the United States, as it comes amid rising tensions between China and Taiwan. The United States has pledged to help Taiwan defend itself against a Chinese attack, and it has warned China against using force to take control of the island.

The documentary begins with a map of China and Taiwan, with a red line drawn across the Taiwan Strait. The narrator explains that the red line represents China's "bottom line" on Taiwan, and that any attempt by Taiwan to declare independence would be met with military force.

The documentary then goes on to show footage of Chinese military exercises. This includes live-fire drills, amphibious landings, and air force exercises. The narrator explains that China is building up its military power in order to deter Taiwan from declaring independence.

The documentary also features interviews with military experts who discuss China's plans for a potential attack on Taiwan. One expert says that China could use a combination of air, sea, and land forces to attack Taiwan. Another expert says that China could also use cyberwarfare to disable Taiwan's defenses.

The documentary ends with a warning to Taiwan. The narrator says that China will not hesitate to use force to take control of Taiwan, and that Taiwan should not underestimate China's resolve.

The release of the documentary has raised concerns in Taiwan and the United States. The United States has pledged to help Taiwan defend itself against a Chinese attack, and it has warned China against using force to take control of the island.

The documentary is a reminder of the growing tensions between China and Taiwan. It is also a reminder of China's growing military power. The documentary is likely to further increase tensions between China and Taiwan, and it could make a conflict more likely.

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SOUTH KOREA: Floods in south Korea kill at least 40 people

July 17, 2023 asia No Comments

Heavy rains in South Korea produced flooding and landslides, killing at least 40 people and leaving dozens more missing. The southern provinces of Gyeongsangnam-do and Jeollanam-do have been hardest damaged.

Monday marked the start of the rains, which lasted through Tuesday. They were the most significant in many years, and they led to rivers overflowing and dams breaking. Along with harming homes and bridges, water also harmed highways.

To aid with the rescue and recovery efforts, the government has sent troops and emergency personnel. After visiting the damaged areas, President Yoon Suk-yeol promised to do everything in his power to assist the victims.

The flooding serves as a warning about the risks of climate change. The government has issued a warning that more extreme weather occurrences are likely in the future because South Korea is one of the nations most susceptible to the effects of climate change.

The most recent updates on the floods in South Korea are as follows:

>40 people have already died in total.

>Numerous people remain missing.

>Numerous thousands of individuals have had to leave their houses.

>In the impacted areas, the government has issued an emergency declaration.

>The anticipated cost of the damage is in  billions of dollars.

Although the flooding is tragic, it also presents South Korea with a chance to combat climate change. The government must fund infrastructure that can survive harsh weather conditions and inform the populace of the dangers posed by climate change. South Korea can aid in averting future tragedies by acting now.

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