HeyJaredJapan Today Spotlight
Breaking stories and deep dives into Japan’s news and changing society — in English, from Tokyo.
- Indexed episodes, last 90 days
- 8
- Latest publication
- Sep 3, 2026
- Audience
- Checking…
- Earliest in this view
- Jul 9, 2026
Latest episodes
Are you prepared for a disaster in Japan? (opens the original)
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Earthquakes, typhoons, floods and other natural disasters are a fact of life in Japan. But being aware of the risks isn’t the same as being prepared for them. This episode looks at what residents should have ready before disaster strikes, how Japan prepares for emergencies and why knowing what to do in those first crucial moments matters. Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH
Putin’s message to Japan: The disputed islands visit (opens the original)
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited one of the disputed islands claimed by both Russia and Japan, adding new tension to an already strained relationship. The territorial dispute has prevented the two countries from signing a formal World War II peace treaty for more than 80 years. This episode looks at why the islands still matter, what Putin’s visit was intended to signal and how Russia’s increasingly close ties with China and North Korea are complicating Japan’s security outlook. Watc
Why Japan has only 2 'baby hatches' (opens the original)
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Japan has just two baby hatches, where parents can safely surrender infants they are unable to care for. Supporters say they can save newborn lives and offer a last resort for desperate families. Critics worry about anonymous births, abandonment and what happens to children afterward. This episode looks at why baby hatches remain so rare in Japan — and whether the country needs more of them. Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5a
Why Japan’s ‘izakaya’ are disappearing (opens the original)
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Japan’s izakaya have long been a fixture of after-work life, but a growing number are closing their doors. Aging owners, changing drinking habits, rising costs and a younger generation less interested in traditional work drinking culture are reshaping the industry. This episode looks at why Japan’s izakaya are disappearing and what their decline says about broader changes in Japanese society. Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5
Japan wants AI. Many people aren’t convinced. (opens the original)
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Japan is investing heavily in artificial intelligence, hoping it can help solve labor shortages, boost productivity and strengthen the economy. But public enthusiasm hasn’t kept pace. Many people remain skeptical about AI’s impact on jobs, privacy, misinformation and even the environment. This episode explores why Japan is pushing AI so hard — and why many people aren’t convinced it’s the right answer. Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=
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