Japan's Butter Shortage Whips Its Cake Makers Into A Frenzy
For the Japanese, Christmastime means sponge cake. But a nationwide butter shortage has led to mandatory butter rationing, forcing cake bakers to seek out substitutes.
Japan
Is 'Womenomics' The Answer To Japan's Economic Woes?
The government has set up a female lumberjacks program, part of a wider effort to fuel growth after long-term stagnation. But critics say it does little to tackle fundamental problems.
Japan's Ruling Party Poised For Landslide In Snap Elections
The victory is seen as a mandate for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's economic overhaul plan, even as Japan has fallen back into recession in the second half of 2014.
With Japan In Recession, Prime Minister Calls For Snap Elections
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called for an election two years ahead of schedule, and he also delayed an increase in sales tax.
Two Striking Photos From Today's APEC Meetings
The forum's first day has already brought us interesting images. In one, the leaders of China and Japan reflect their countries' unease; in another, world leaders dress alike.
China, Japan Agree To Disagree On Disputed Islands
The move paves the way for the renewal of high-level talks between the two countries that were frozen two years ago by China.
Regional Government OKs Restart Of Japanese Nuclear Plant
Japan shut down all of its nuclear reactors after the triple meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in 2011. This plant could be the first to restart.
40 Is The New Cute: Hello Kitty Celebrates Birthday
The milestone inspired a Hello Kitty Con in Los Angeles this week. But the largest fete was in Tokyo, where parent company Sanrio put on a parade and other events.
Death Toll From Japanese Volcano Rises
Nearly 50 people are listed as dead from an eruption of Mount Ontake, located about 125 miles west of Tokyo.
Hiker Catches Volcano's Eruption On Video, And Is Overtaken By Ash
The sudden eruption in central Japan surprised and stranded hikers, and caused one death. A hiker managed to shoot video of the shocking sight of an immense billowing gray cloud speeding toward them.