SoraNews24 —Japan News—
Bringing you yesterday's news from Japan and Asia, today.
Featured
- Weird
- Studio Ghibli
- Jobs
Custom Made Notebooks Going Like Custom Made Hotcakes
- Master Blaster
Jun 16, 2012 - Tweet
A bookstore called Sanseido, in the Jinbo book selling district of Tokyo, on 1 April announced that they would be selling custom-made notebooks, and it wasn’t a joke. In fact, they have been flying off the shelves, which is good because these books are ready to take away moments after ordering them.
Incredible (and almost impossible) paper craft – this rose doesn’t smell sweet but certainly is beautiful!
- Kay
Jun 16, 2012
Do you enjoy the Japanese paper craft of origami? If you do, here’s a video that’s sure to fascinate you! The video shows an exquisite paper rose being made, and it’s been receiving a considerable amount of attention recently – and not just for the impressive skill demonstrated. It’s actually causing many internet viewers to cry out in frustration, and once you see the video, you’ll know the reason why. Read More
- Internet, Japan
- (entertainment • origami • rose)
Mindreading App (Shut Up and Take More Of My Free Will Away)?
- Danielnishina
Jun 15, 2012
At first glance, this tech news report seems to be telling us of an intriguing augmented reality app that’s scary good. When you point your camera at an object, it can automatically read your mind about what you’ll want to do next on the internet with respect to that object, like get a coupon for it or research about it on Wikipedia. Which would bring to mind various questions, such as, is it like auto-fill/auto-complete, remembering what you or others have done before, taken a few steps further? Is it selectively taking you to a website that’s ultimately aiming to get your money? Is it inviting you to give up your free will and just be satisfied with the website it saw fit to jump you to? How does it know what you want to do? Read More
- Internet, Japan
- (app • business • fujitsu • qr code • science • smartphone • technology • television)
That’s no Battle Station! It’s an Ice Sphere – in the Shape of the Death Star!
- Kay
Jun 15, 2012
Okay, we think all of you Star Wars fans out there will love this product! Do you remember being impressed when the Death Star appeared in the very first Star Wars movie accompanied by Ben Kenobi’s famous words, “That’s no moon. It’s a space station!”? Well, now you can create your own Death Star – from ice! Read More
- Japan
- (Death Star • entertainment • shopping • Star Wars)
What’s that shadow? It’s a bird, it’s a plane – no it’s the planet Venus, and it won’t be happening again for another 105 years!
- Kay
Jun 14, 2012
We previously brought you a video capturing beautiful images of a “super moon“, but we now have some amazing photos from another astronomical event – the transit of planet Venus across the Sun. The event was observed in Japan on June 6th over a period of approximately six hours starting from 7 a.m. Japan Time. You may want to take a look at these images, because the next time Venus makes a transit across the Sun will be 105 years from now! Read More
- Japan
- (science • sun • transit of Venus • venus)
Newly Developed Memory Could Make Your Smartphone Battery Last 10 Times Longer
- Master Blaster
Jun 13, 2012
Good news for users of smartphones and other portable devices constantly frustrated by batteries that don’t seem to last the day. A new type of energy saving memory has been successfully developed that can extend your battery life from 5 to 10 times.
- Korea
- (battery • memory • smartphone • technology)
Hakone Opens an Evangelion Themed Souvenir Shop, Hopes They Don’t Get Overrun With Fans Again
- Master Blaster
Jun 13, 2012
Following the opening of Evangelion Store Tokyo-01, and with the release of the third installment of the reboot series, Evangelion 3.0: You Can (Not) Redo, a new Evangelion souvenir shop is scheduled to open in the town of Hakone on 14 July.
Hakone, which serves as the backdrop for the Evangelion story (where it’s renamed as Tokyo-3), is happy to be home to the second official Evangelion store, called “Eva Shop” but is also hoping they don’t get a repeat of what happened two years ago.
- Japan
- (anime & manga • Evangelion • Hakone • shopping • souvenir)
Researchers Identify Protein Responsible for the Effects of Aging, Rather than a Fountain of Youth, We May Need a Syphon of Old
- Master Blaster
Jun 12, 2012
A research group headed by Professor Kazunari Komuro at Osaka University believes they have found the chemical responsible for effects of aging like deterioration of muscles.
The nasty chemical responsible for making us old and frail is called C1q. Being able to regulate it in our bodies can possibly lead to treatments and prevention of more serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes.
We Travel to China to Investigate Their Fabled Melt-Proof Ice Pop
- Master Blaster
Jun 11, 2012
Legend has it that in China there exists a frozen treat so incredibly powerful that it never melts, even if left in room temperature. RocketNews sent a reporter into the mysterious country to learn more about this potent popsicle of the gods.
The following takes place between 3:40pm and 6:50pm. Events occur in real time… if you’re really slow at reading.
You Can Have Your Very Own Whale Party on iPhone Messages In Just a Few Simple Steps
- Master Blaster
Jun 11, 2012
If you’re an iPhone user you probably are very familiar with its Messages app which allows you to easily send instant mails to friends and family. Even if you don’t have an iPhone you’ve probably seen it in one of the many funny pictures of auto-correct gone wrong floating around the net.
Here’s a little trick that’s also been circulating the internet on how to make a cute little whale using the iPhone Messages speech bubble format. It’s so easy anyone can do it.
[Video] From sick animal to beautiful healthy kitten – one cat’s amazing recovery will warm your hearts!
- Kay
Jun 10, 2012
See this picture of an adorable kitten? Well, just one month earlier, this kitten was a sorry sight – she was very sick and her eyes were closed shut with an infection. Fortunately, she was found by someone kind who gave her the food and tender loving care she so desperately needed, and in the space of just one month, she makes an amazing recovery from a sick little animal to a beautiful healthy kitten! And it’s all captured in a lovely, heartwarming video. Read More
[Quiz] How Well Do You Know Your Japanese Hand Gestures?
- Master Blaster
Jun 10, 2012
Recently we ran an article about obscene gestures in many parts of the world, but now RocketNews would like to turn the lens inwards for a look at Japan’s hand gestures.
You may have some experience with these from spending time in Japan or from Japanese film and manga, but how well do you really think you know the gestures of this country? Take this quiz to find out.
Smartphone Vs Wine Bottle: Can this New “Shockproof Film” Save the Mobile Device?
- Master Blaster
Jun 9, 2012
While attending Wireless Japan 2012 this year, we were able to see some offerings by the best companies of the mobile industry. But many times, it’s the small to mid-sized businesses that really aim to make a name for themselves.
Enter Sun Crest Ltd., who shocked many with their line of shockproof screen film protectors. Although it’s not officially released, we got ahold of a sample and put it to the test with some whacks from a wine bottle.
- Japan
- (Apple • protection • smartphone • technology • wine bottle)
Breakthrough Material Can Alternate Between a Solid and a Liquid Simply by Shining a Light
- Master Blaster
Jun 8, 2012
The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST for mercifully short) has announced the development of a new material that can be used as an adhesive product.
- Korea
- (adhesive • AIST • science • ultraviolet)
Worried about power shortage? Now you can carry around your own portable solar power source!
- Kay
Jun 7, 2012
Conservation and efficient use of energy is a huge issue these days, particularly in Japan where the nuclear power plants have been shut down and people are seriously concerned about whether we will have enough electric power in the coming summer months when electricity use will be at the highest. Well, if you’re worried about running out of electric power, here’s the perfect gadget for you – your very own portable solar panel kit! Read More
A new innovative drink to come out from Suntory – but have they gotten a bit too innovative this time?
- Kay
Jun 7, 2012
In recent months, we’ve brought to you news on several interesting and creative beverages such as fat-busting cola, salty watermelon flavored pepsi and Okinawa brown sugar cola. Now, major beverage maker Suntory Holdings Limited has announced another new innovative drink that will come on to the Japanese market on July 31. The new drink, called Espressoda, is actually a carbonated coffee drink! However, based on the response on the internet, it appears that Japanese consumers are not so sure about coffee soda as a drink. Read More
Capture Highway Wackiness, Prove Your Driving Skills with this Rearview Mirror with Camera and LED Display
- Danielnishina
Jun 6, 2012
Now you can capture random moments of craziness or novelty happening while you’re driving with this new in-car camera / rearview mirror from Hamwha. It looks more or less like a normal rearview mirror but has an internal camera pointing forward to record what’s happening in front of your vehicle. Read More
- Internet
- (auto • camera • entertainment • in-car camera • shopping • technology • video)
Who looks like the former President of Finland? An unexpected case of look-alikes
- Kay
Jun 6, 2012
In Japan, we say that there are (at least) three people in the world who look exactly like you. Well, we seem to have found 2, possibly 3 publicly recognizable figures who look very much like each other. Could they be doppelgängers? Read More
- Japan
- (entertainment • Finland • Harisenbon • look alikes)
Epic, Heart-Melting Lip-Dub Proposal (video)
- Danielnishina
Jun 6, 2012
Still making the re-post rounds on the internet is this sweet, heartwarming and funny musical marriage proposal, “Isaac’s Live Lip-Dub Proposal“. Isaac Lamb got together over 60 friends and family, most certainly planned and rehearsed, and on the day of reckoning, invited his unsuspecting fiancee, Amy, over to be met by his brother …
These cute little gadgets will keep you cool in the summer – so what are they?
- Kay
Jun 4, 2012
Can you guess what these gadgets are? It’s hard to tell from their appearance, isn’t it? Well, they’re portable devices that are designed to keep you cool in warm weather, so they’re not just cute and smart looking, they’re actually quite functional. So what exactly are they and how are they used? Read More
- Japan
- (fan • shopping • technology)
-
Recent Posts
- Tokyo’s red-light district cafe lets you dine inside a real 1960s cabaret
- Okinawa man convinced he won 700 million yen by scammers, saved by convenience store staff
- Tokyo ward looking to change lodging laws, ban more than half of its Airbnb-style rentals
- Uniqlo’s sister brand will be waiting with Pokémon sweaters and parkas this fall [Pics]
- Mister Donut releases new sweet potato doughnuts in Japan, and we’ve ranked them from best to worst
-
MOST POPULAR
- Today
- Weekly
- Monthly
- Yearly
Today
Tokyo ward looking to change lodging laws, ban more than half of its Airbnb-style rentals
Uniqlo’s sister brand will be waiting with Pokémon sweaters and parkas this fall [Pics]
Okinawa man convinced he won 700 million yen by scammers, saved by convenience store staff
Mister Donut releases new sweet potato doughnuts in Japan, and we’ve ranked them from best to worst
New Transforming Business Card case brings anime mecha to Japanese work meetings
New Japanese ice cream is Ballin, in more ways than one
Tokyo’s red-light district cafe lets you dine inside a real 1960s cabaret
Shinto shrine gate parfaits that tell your fortune now being served in Tokyo
Lego PlayStation recreates Sony’s original console, makes unusual choice for games to salute
Studio Ghibli adds new finger puppets to its anime merchandise collection in Japan
Weekly
Kyoto temple bans visitors from wearing kimono
Lego PlayStation recreates Sony’s original console, makes unusual choice for games to salute
A real-world Pokémon Poké Ball hotel is opening in Japan at a still-secret location [Video]
Japan’s first fall color forecast for 2026 is here!
Tamagotchi evolves into a ring for its 30th anniversary, preorders now open
Starbucks Japan reveals new Tsukimi Moon-Viewing drinkware and gifts for autumn 2026
Family Mart releases Famima convenience store products nationwide, but which ones are worth buying?
New Pokémon anniversary song is 22 minutes long, features all 1,025 Pokémon species [Video]
One Piece Day 2026 brings new art, music, and new cast announcements
New Japanese convenience store rice balls taste like instant noodles [Taste test]
Monthly
12-year-old British girl who went missing in Tokyo found safe after visiting anime sites around Yokohama
7-year-old boy left behind on Mt. Fuji by his own dad
Japan’s final Penguin Suica train cards have already shipped, and when they’re gone, they’re gone
Sushi Bus: Japan’s first conveyor-belt bus lets you eat sushi while sightseeing around Tokyo
Studio Ghibli unveils new anime calendars and diary planners for 2027
Study finds hundreds of people in Indonesia legally named after Naruto, Inuyasha, other anime stars
Japan approves foreign resident visa renewal fee increases of up to 967 percent, starts soon
Japan tripled its departure tax to fund tourism but is using the money on cherry blossoms and bears
Solo travel in Japan: Hidden beer garden in Tokyo is a haven for single visitors
Hobonichi unveils new 2027 planners, diaries and stationery with One Piece, Suica Penguin, Hello Kitty and a must-buy Mini Techo
Yearly
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Studio Ghibli has a new anime out, and there’s only one place in the world where you can see it
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Tokyo subway installing new ticket gates that don’t accept payment through Suica or other IC cards
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
-
RECOMMENDED STORIES
New Japanese ice cream is Ballin, in more ways than one
Tokyo’s red-light district cafe lets you dine inside a real 1960s cabaret
Shinto shrine gate parfaits that tell your fortune now being served in Tokyo
Lego PlayStation recreates Sony’s original console, makes unusual choice for games to salute
Studio Ghibli adds new finger puppets to its anime merchandise collection in Japan
Starbucks Japan reveals new Tsukimi Moon-Viewing drinkware and gifts for autumn 2026
Kyoto temple bans visitors from wearing kimono
Starbucks Japan adds new Sweet Potato Frappuccino and Latte to the menu, but do they deliver the taste of autumn?
Japan’s revolving sushi restaurant king Sushiro coming to U.S. this fall with high prices, no tipping
Go to hell! …at a limited time historical art exhibit coming to Osaka
Starbucks Japan releases new coffee table book featuring 18 of the most unique stores around the country
Japan’s Tsukimi One-hand Bento’s name is all wrong, but it still looks entirely delicious
New Japanese convenience store rice balls taste like instant noodles [Taste test]
Onsen Egg Bukkake Udon Ice Cream makes us rethink everything we thought we knew about sweets
-
-
Categories
Categories Select Category Africa (33) Anime & Manga (193) Art (64) Australia (42) C America (9) C Asia (17) Canada (59) Cats (72) China (845) Culture (180) Cute (187) Entertainment (248) Europe (344) FN24 (1) Food & Drink (314) Games & Tech (167) Global (1,071) India (11) Internet (2,197) Italy (13) Japan (34,273) Korea (375) Lifestyle (76) Mexico (6) Music (12) N Asia (4) New Zealand (11) News (61) North Korea (72) Oceania (10) Russia (56) S America (33) S Asia (66) SE Asia (378) Space (2) Taiwan (203) UK (16) Uncategorized (19) USA (970) W Asia (25)
-
Archives
Archives Select Month September 2026 (40) August 2026 (174) July 2026 (197) June 2026 (174) May 2026 (138) April 2026 (142) March 2026 (150) February 2026 (124) January 2026 (138) December 2025 (136) November 2025 (136) October 2025 (151) September 2025 (154) August 2025 (143) July 2025 (158) June 2025 (165) May 2025 (162) April 2025 (181) March 2025 (157) February 2025 (127) January 2025 (139) December 2024 (148) November 2024 (149) October 2024 (153) September 2024 (154) August 2024 (158) July 2024 (156) June 2024 (150) May 2024 (166) April 2024 (150) March 2024 (157) February 2024 (169) January 2024 (159) December 2023 (165) November 2023 (166) October 2023 (166) September 2023 (173) August 2023 (183) July 2023 (171) June 2023 (180) May 2023 (158) April 2023 (152) March 2023 (167) February 2023 (160) January 2023 (171) December 2022 (175) November 2022 (176) October 2022 (179) September 2022 (191) August 2022 (202) July 2022 (193) June 2022 (178) May 2022 (178) April 2022 (181) March 2022 (212) February 2022 (199) January 2022 (224) December 2021 (230) November 2021 (214) October 2021 (215) September 2021 (238) August 2021 (225) July 2021 (207) June 2021 (218) May 2021 (209) April 2021 (206) March 2021 (225) February 2021 (209) January 2021 (224) December 2020 (225) November 2020 (224) October 2020 (231) September 2020 (238) August 2020 (227) July 2020 (220) June 2020 (209) May 2020 (215) April 2020 (238) March 2020 (235) February 2020 (222) January 2020 (233) December 2019 (187) November 2019 (214) October 2019 (237) September 2019 (195) August 2019 (205) July 2019 (183) June 2019 (201) May 2019 (231) April 2019 (192) March 2019 (242) February 2019 (211) January 2019 (238) December 2018 (212) November 2018 (217) October 2018 (214) September 2018 (203) August 2018 (217) July 2018 (218) June 2018 (208) May 2018 (204) April 2018 (193) March 2018 (216) February 2018 (192) January 2018 (223) December 2017 (204) November 2017 (209) October 2017 (218) September 2017 (209) August 2017 (228) July 2017 (222) June 2017 (245) May 2017 (229) April 2017 (197) March 2017 (165) February 2017 (151) January 2017 (180) December 2016 (260) November 2016 (267) October 2016 (302) September 2016 (387) August 2016 (351) July 2016 (379) June 2016 (379) May 2016 (312) April 2016 (347) March 2016 (414) February 2016 (379) January 2016 (359) December 2015 (359) November 2015 (378) October 2015 (435) September 2015 (419) August 2015 (152) July 2015 (218) June 2015 (179) May 2015 (237) April 2015 (223) March 2015 (119) February 2015 (121) January 2015 (395) December 2014 (376) November 2014 (376) October 2014 (414) September 2014 (349) August 2014 (379) July 2014 (316) June 2014 (375) May 2014 (384) April 2014 (354) March 2014 (318) February 2014 (284) January 2014 (270) December 2013 (224) November 2013 (242) October 2013 (244) September 2013 (226) August 2013 (241) July 2013 (214) June 2013 (222) May 2013 (191) April 2013 (173) March 2013 (149) February 2013 (85) January 2013 (106) December 2012 (111) November 2012 (149) October 2012 (151) September 2012 (118) August 2012 (99) July 2012 (56) June 2012 (57) May 2012 (54) April 2012 (62) March 2012 (40) February 2012 (27) January 2012 (24) December 2011 (18) November 2011 (12) October 2011 (1) September 2011 (9) August 2011 (11) March 2011 (1)
-
- About Us | Jobs | Contact | Contribution | Partner with Us
© SoraNews24 —Japan News— / SOCIO CORPORATION
- Advertise |
- About Us |
- Work with us |
- Contact |
- Contribution |


