Japan is rapidly transforming its defence posture, aiming to double annual arms spending to counter China. This historic shift raises questions about its pacifist constitution. Read the full analysis.
A Guardian reporter ventures into a Japanese bear hotspot, revealing the escalating human-wildlife conflict. Discover the shocking encounters and community fears.
A leading defence analyst warns Australia is dangerously underprepared for potential conflict as China launches major 'Justice Mission 2025' drills near Taiwan. Urgent calls for increased defence spending and civil readiness.
A man wearing a gas mask launched a violent attack at a Japanese rubber factory, stabbing eight people and injuring seven others with bleach. Police have arrested a 38-year-old suspect.
Eight people rushed to hospital after a reported mass stabbing and chemical incident at the Yokohama Rubber plant in Mishima, Japan. Follow for breaking updates.
Japan's cabinet approves a historic ¥9tn defence budget, boosting strike-back capabilities as tensions with China escalate over Taiwan and space militarisation. Read the full analysis.
Discover why fried chicken is Japan's festive staple. A traveller explores Tokyo's halal alternatives to the KFC queues, unravelling a unique cultural tradition.
President Macron announces a new French nuclear aircraft carrier, boosting defence spending. The vessel, set for 2038, will carry 30 jets and 2,000 sailors. Read the full strategic analysis.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch announces a £50 billion Sovereign Defence Fund, repurposing money from Labour's climate initiatives to bolster UK military readiness. Read the full plan.
The UK's Defence Investment Plan is delayed until 2026 amid a £2.6bn budget shortfall and the troubled Ajax programme. Read the full analysis of the military spending crisis.
Japan faces its first panda-free era in five decades as its last two giant pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, depart Tokyo's Ueno Zoo for China, marking a symbolic moment amid diplomatic tensions.
Japan has ended its megaquake advisory for the northeast coast one week after a magnitude 7.5 quake. Officials warn the risk remains. Stay prepared with the latest updates.
American playwright Jeremy O Harris detained in Okinawa after customs allegedly found MDMA in his bag. Learn about Japan's strict drug laws and the case details.
Analysis reveals a growing mismatch between UK's Cold War military reputation and current defence spending, as Germany and France increase budgets and debate national service. Read why experts warn of strategic risks.
Kyoto posts urgent multilingual signs after record bear attacks across Japan. Learn the safety advice and why encounters have surged to unprecedented levels.
A 69-year-old security guard fought off a bear in a Japanese public toilet. This incident is part of a record-breaking surge in bear attacks across Japan, prompting military deployment and new insurance policies.
A Tokyo court ruled Japan's same-sex marriage ban constitutional, reversing an earlier decision. The case now heads to the Supreme Court for a final ruling on LGBTQ+ rights in the G7's only holdout.
President Macron announces a new voluntary military service for French youth and a €64bn defence spending target by 2027, responding to Russian threats to European stability.
All Nippon Airways launches free domestic flights for UK travellers to explore Japan's hidden gems and reduce overtourism. Find out how to book.
British tourists can now book complimentary internal flights in Japan with ANA to ease overtourism in Tokyo and Kyoto. Discover lesser-visited regions until 31 Jan 2026.
The EU's defence chief has proposed a major integration of the bloc's defence industry with Ukraine, including a €1.5bn support package. Discover how this strategic shift responds to US disengagement.
Japan confirms missile deployment on Yonaguni island near Taiwan, triggering a furious response from Beijing which calls it a 'red line' crossing. Read the latest on this major defence escalation.
Discover the real Japanese businesses offering rented relatives and friends, a service spotlighted in the new film 'Rental Family' starring Brendan Fraser. Explore the loneliness epidemic driving this unique industry.
China imposes a blanket ban on Japanese seafood imports and advises against travel to Japan. Explore the economic fallout and diplomatic crisis.
The UK Foreign Office updates Japan travel advice following a record number of wildlife-related deaths. Stay informed and learn essential safety precautions for your trip.
The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel warning for Japan due to a surge in bear attacks. Learn about the safety precautions and the military response.
Japan's Sakurajima volcano erupted dramatically before dawn on Sunday, sending ash and smoke 14,400 feet into the air and prompting ashfall warnings for local residents.
Shocking figures reveal the UK's Armed Forces now have more senior officers than its main battle tanks, warships, and combat aircraft combined. Discover the full story behind this defence imbalance.
Australian taxpayers fund unexpected government purchases including war-gaming boards and Minecraft education. Defence officials justify spending as vital training tools amid rising national debt concerns.
Japan records its highest-ever bear attack fatalities, prompting a police and military response. Discover the reasons behind the crisis and the new measures in place.