Bringing you yesterday's news from Japan and Asia, today.
Akio Toyoda
The ice bucket challenge has gone viral this summer with everyone from your average Joe to celebrities and business moguls such as Oprah, Charlie Sheen, and Bill Gates getting on board. Now it’s even spread across the pond to Japan, and started circulating among the business bigwigs over here. Yesterday Toyota President Akio Toyoda took on the challenge with a brave face, while also keeping the charitable spirit alive.
When Akio Toyoda took the helm of Toyota Motor Corporation in 2009, he was faced with a collapsing economy and a recall scandal that now seemed to have been blown out of proportion.
Still, he was able to steer the company through these stormy waters by being something more than just the founder’s great grandson who took over the company. He was a guy who truly loved cars.
As proof, it came to light on 30 April that he will participate in this year’s 24 Hours Nürburgring, a grueling endurance race on one of the most challenging circuits in the world.
Burger King Japan to be bought by America’s Goldman-Sachs
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Many foreign tourists not picking up, paying for their orders at 100-year-old Tokyo sweets shop
Totoro Tummy Blanket gives you the belly warmth of Ghibli’s cuddliest character【Photos】
Never been into a girl’s room before? Then this reference photo book is for you
How to speak Japanese like a gyaru【2024 edition】
The new Ranma 1/2 anime is here! So is it worth watching?【SoraReview】
Tokyo cafe staffed by robots piloted by paralyzed and otherwise housebound people
Finally, a tool to save us from the pain of sitting Japanese-style【Photos】
Japanese government considering tripling departure taxes to combat overtourism
Starbucks Japan unveils the new Soupuccino
Tokyo Station’s ultra-rare cakes look, and taste, like a cup of coffee
Bear attack shelters going on sale in Japan as country experiences record-high number of incidents
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We zapped up some tasty hot sandwiches in the microwave with 3COINS’ new gadget from Japan
Studio Ghibli unveils new fluffy purses from films like My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away
Totoro, Catbus sleeping bags are perfect place to stay cozy all winter…if you fit inside【Pics】
Japan’s permanent Pokémon theme park zone announces grand opening date, ticket sale start
Studio Ghibli releases new “komorebi” plush toys to brighten your days
Sanrio and Sonic the Hedgehog characters become fast friends with new plushie collection
Brand-new Pokémon park opens in Japan with larger-than-life-size Lapras【Photos】
Tokyo bento boxed lunch shop charges different prices depending on how heavy your laptop is
Japan has vending machines that put protective film on your phone for you — Here’s how to use them
Studio Ghibli anime stoles are here to keep you warm with a range of famous characters
Totoro fountain figurine recreates the sights and sounds of one of anime’s most memorable scenes
Starbucks Japan unveils new Christmas Frappuccino and holiday drinks for 2025
Ghibli Museum clock is now yours to take home with you
Step into Japanese culture with Converse’s new Japan-exclusive shoes featuring gods, sushi style
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Possessing Harry Potter’s Sword of Godric Gryffindor is now illegal in Japan
Japan’s deadliest food claims more victims, but why do people keep eating it for New Year’s?
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Studio Ghibli releases Kodama forest spirits from Princess Mononoke to light up your home
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
The top 10 annoying foreign tourist behaviors on trains, as chosen by Japanese people【Survey】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
Uniqlo announces first-ever collaboration with horror manga master Junji Ito【Photos】
Never been into a girl’s room before? Then this reference photo book is for you
How to speak Japanese like a gyaru【2024 edition】
The new Ranma 1/2 anime is here! So is it worth watching?【SoraReview】
Tokyo cafe staffed by robots piloted by paralyzed and otherwise housebound people
Finally, a tool to save us from the pain of sitting Japanese-style【Photos】
We ordered the biggest steak we could buy with 10,000 yen at steakhouse chain Ikinari Steak
History’s worst job? Japanese noblewomen used to hire servants to take the blame for their farts
Snuggle up to a fried oyster with ingenious cushion and cover set from Japan
Super-cheap, super-convenient rice-cooking mug is a new kitchen gadget all-star from 3 Coins
Shocking discovery: Japan’s expensive Shine Muscat grapes can pair amazingly with cheap Pringles
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Starbucks Japan unveils the new Soupuccino