Japan's Shinto faith faces crisis as priests age
A profound demographic shift threatens the future of Japan's ancient Shinto religion, with ageing priests and shrinking congregations forcing many shrines to close.
A profound demographic shift threatens the future of Japan's ancient Shinto religion, with ageing priests and shrinking congregations forcing many shrines to close.
The world's most bizarre sporting event saw history made as reigning gurning champion Tommy Mattinson was finally defeated after 19 consecutive victories at Egremont Crab Fair's legendary competition.
Xavier Rigby has been sentenced to nine years in prison after admitting to causing the death of cyclist Kjersten Strang by dangerous driving while over the drink-drive limit on the A6 in Cumbria.
Environmental campaigners scale RWE's Nottinghamshire power station, demanding government U-turn on controversial West Cumbria coal project and highlighting climate hypocrisy.
West Coast Railways triumphs in bid to operate the iconic Settle-Carlisle railway line, ensuring the future of this scenic route through the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian fells.
David Hasselhoff's daughter, Hayley, embraces Bavarian tradition in a classic dirndl at Oktoberfest. The model and actress stuns in the timeless ensemble, continuing a family affinity for Germany.
Exclusive: Hundreds of jobs at the Sellafield nuclear facility are at risk as management proposes sweeping cuts, sparking fierce opposition from the Unite union and fears for the local economy.
Supermodel Heidi Klum embraces Bavarian tradition, turning heads in a classic dirndl at the world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich. Get the full story on her authentic look and festive celebrations.
Kazakhstan has criminalised the archaic practice of non-consensual bride kidnapping, imposing harsh prison sentences in a landmark legal shift that addresses a tradition famously satirised in the Borat films.
A fascinating rediscovery of a 1925 Country Diary reveals the astonishing homing ability of Herdwick sheep, a legendary trait deeply woven into the fabric of the Lake District.
The beloved cult classic 'Withnail & I' has captivated a new generation of fans after landing on Netflix, sparking fresh demand for a long-awaited sequel and a pilgrimage to its filming locations.
Newly unearthed documents reveal how a quiet Cumbrian town was at the heart of Britain's worst nuclear disaster, drawing shocking parallels to Chernobyl.
A rising sumo star from Japan has shattered a centuries-old tradition by performing a sacred Shinto purification ceremony in Bangkok, marking a historic first outside of Japan.
Explore the Lake District's stunning landscapes on a new 46-mile walking trail from Windermere to Grasmere, retracing Wordsworth's steps without a car. Sustainable travel guide.
Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer undertakes the pivotal constitutional tradition of meeting the monarch at Balmoral, signalling a new political era. Exclusive details on the private audience with King Charles III.
The costly and secretive Daijosai enthronement ritual for Emperor Naruhito has ignited a fierce debate in Japan, pitting ancient tradition against modern financial transparency and the future of the Chrysanthemum Throne.
Belfast's first Sinn Féin Lord Mayor cancels the historic 'Mayor's Sunday' church service, breaking a 124-year tradition and igniting a fierce political and community debate.
Furious Lake District residents and campaigners are calling for a tourist tax and on-the-spot fines to tackle a surge in littering, fly-camping, and anti-social behaviour, blaming a 'tsunami' of visitors for degrading the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A startling royal revelation details how the late Queen Elizabeth II gave a famously 'polite dismissal' to a modernisation idea, showcasing her deep respect for tradition over fleeting trends.
Discover how a historic Cumbrian farm is pioneering a fragrant new future for Lake District agriculture, transforming its fields with sustainable lavender cultivation.
The Met Office has issued a severe yellow weather warning for heavy, persistent rain across southern Scotland and north west England, with potential flooding and travel disruption expected from Wednesday.
A powerful moment of cultural exchange or a misstep? England's response to Samoa's traditional Siva Tau challenge before their Rugby World Cup clash has sparked a fierce debate about respect, tradition, and the spirit of the game.
Cycling UK faces ridicule and accusations of 'woke censorship' after ordering a local club to censor the name of the historic village of Three Cocks from a racing event, sparking a fierce debate about tradition and modern sensibilities.
A daredevil hiker has sparked a major mountain rescue operation after scaling Scafell Pike barefoot in the middle of the night, leaving emergency services baffled by his dangerous feat.
An extraordinary transformation is unfolding in the Lake District. After relentless rain, the iconic fells have vanished, replaced by a breathtaking inland sea that rewrites the very map of Cumbria.
England and Lions rugby star Maro Itoje marries model Susie Nwokoye in a stunning traditional Nigerian wedding ceremony in London, attended by teammates in vibrant cultural attire.
Ryan Johnston has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, TikTok personality Emily Long. The 21-year-old was found guilty of stabbing Emily to death in a 'frenzied and sustained attack' at their home in Cumbria.
In a stunning break with centuries of tradition, Pope Leo is reportedly moving into a shared apartment, sending shockwaves through the Catholic Church and diplomatic circles worldwide.
The UK Treasury has criticised proposals for an underground nuclear waste facility in Cumbria, labelling them as unachievable and poorly costed.