Tag: Japan

International

Japan Tops 95,000 Centenarians Amid Growing Demographic Crisis

Tanisha Cardozo

Japan has reached a new milestone in longevity, with over 95,119 people aged 100 or older, nearly 90% of whom are women, according to data released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare on September 1, 2024. This figure marks an increase of 2,980 centenarians from the previous year and highlights the rapid pace of aging in the nation.

The number of elderly (aged 65 and above) also hit a record 36.25 million, now accounting for 29.3% of the population. These trends place Japan firmly at the top among countries with more than 100,000 citizens in terms of elderly population proportion. Meanwhile, Japan’s total population continues to decline, now standing at 124 million—down 595,000 from the previous year—due to low birth rates and high longevity.

A Looming Economic Concern

The increasing number of elderly citizens is placing unprecedented pressure on Japan’s social welfare and healthcare systems. The shrinking labor force is struggling to support the growing retired population, leading to concerns over long-term economic sustainability.

To combat the demographic imbalance, the Japanese government has implemented measures such as raising the retirement age. Starting fiscal year 2025, the standard retirement age will officially be 65 for all employers. However, experts note that these efforts have so far had limited impact on reversing the decline.

Why It Matters

Japan’s demographic dilemma is a warning for other aging nations. As countries across Europe and Asia begin to experience similar trends, Japan offers a live case study of the challenges and potential solutions facing aging societies worldwide.

Will policy changes come fast enough to support Japan’s aging population, or will economic and social pressures continue to mount? The answer may shape the global conversation on aging and sustainability.

TechPulse

Japan Breaks World Record for Fastest Internet Speed — 402 Tbps!

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Tokyo, July 2025 — Japan has once again taken the lead in global technology by setting a new world record for internet speed: a jaw-dropping 402 terabits per second (Tbps). To put that into perspective, you could download the entire Netflix library — all shows, all movies — in just one second.

The breakthrough was achieved by researchers at Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) using advanced multi-core fiber-optic technology and next-generation wavelength division multiplexing. Unlike typical commercial fiber cables, which use a single core, this innovation utilizes 19 cores in a single fiber — drastically increasing data capacity.

Why It Matters

This record isn’t just about achieving insane speeds. It represents a leap toward the next era of internet infrastructure that could support massive data requirements in industries like AI, streaming, autonomous vehicles, medical imaging, and even interplanetary communication.

With the rapid rollout of 6G trials, quantum computing, and the metaverse, demand for ultra-fast and stable internet is at an all-time high. Japan’s latest milestone lays the groundwork for a truly connected future.

What’s Next?

While this speed isn’t available to consumers just yet, it signals what’s on the horizon. Japan, already one of the world’s most tech-advanced nations, continues to pave the way for innovations that could redefine digital experiences globally.

As global players race toward faster and more efficient networks, Japan’s 402 Tbps feat is a reminder that the future of connectivity is closer than we think — and it’s faster than we ever imagined.

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Nagaoka Fireworks Festival: A Celebration of Resilience and Beauty

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Nestled in the heart of Niigata Prefecture, Nagaoka City comes alive every summer with the breathtaking Nagaoka Fireworks Festival. This beloved event is more than just a spectacular display of fireworks – it’s a poignant tribute to the city’s remarkable resilience and determination.

A Story of Recovery and Hope

The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival has its roots in the city’s tumultuous past. In 1945, Nagaoka was devastated by a massive air raid, leaving thousands of lives lost and the city in ruins. However, in the face of adversity, the people of Nagaoka came together to rebuild and revive their community.

Fast-forward to 2004, when the city was hit by the devastating Niigata Earthquake. Once again, Nagaoka’s residents demonstrated their unwavering spirit and resilience, working tirelessly to restore their city.

A Celebration of Resilience and Beauty

The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is a testament to the city’s unbreakable spirit and its ability to transform adversity into beauty. The festival’s main attraction is the majestic Sanjakudama, a massive firework that erupts into a gigantic flower in the night sky.

This stunning display is accompanied by a wide range of festivities, including:

  • Traditional Japanese performances and music
  • Delicious local cuisine and drinks
  • Vibrant stalls selling handmade crafts and souvenirs

A Must-See Event in Japan

Attracting over a million visitors every year, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is one of Japan’s top three fireworks displays. It’s an event that will leave you in awe, inspiring you with the story of Nagaoka’s resilience and its people’s unwavering determination.

So mark your calendars and join the people of Nagaoka in celebrating their city’s remarkable story. Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking fireworks, delicious food, and vibrant festivities that make this event a truly unforgettable experience.

Event Details:

  • Date: Late August (exact dates vary annually)
  • Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Location: Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

Come and experience the magic of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival for yourself. It’s an event that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for the resilience and beauty of the human spirit.