August 2025 Bento News
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our August 2025 Bento News is packed with a delicious mix of updates from the world of Anime, Manga, and Japan!
Looking for the best anime and manga news from July? We’ve done the digging for you!
This month’s Bento News is loaded with the latest anime releases, manga highlights, must-know game updates, and standout stories from Japan and beyond. Stay in the loop with everything trending in the world of anime and Japanese pop culture, served up fresh and fun, just for you. Itadakimasu!
Anime News
Naruto invades Burger King!
A limited-edition Naruto kids’ meal toy line up has launched in the U.S. and South Africa. It features mini figures of the popular characters of Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, Hinata, Gaara, Neji, and Rock Lee, all styled after their original anime forms. This marks another team-up between Burger King and the iconic anime, following an earlier release in France.
Even at AnimeFanatika, the toys are making waves. Members have been proudly showing off their collections. The toys celebrate Naruto, the beloved series about a boy shunned for housing a demon fox, who dreams of becoming Hokage. The saga now continues with his son, Boruto.
Pikachu Joins the Happy Meal Party at McDonald’s Japan
Starting August 8, McDonald’s Japan launches a new Pokémon Happy Meal line up. Six toy figures are available, featuring Pikachu, Riolu, Ralts, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly. On August 9–11, Happy Meals will include two Pokémon cards, with one guaranteed to be Pikachu.
His card will show him ready to share a burger, irresistible kawaiiness! This follows the current Hello Kitty summer toys from McDonald’s x Sanrio. The Pokémon toys may run for around two weeks. Mark your calendars, trainers. Catch the toy, get the card, and maybe even score extra fries while you’re at it!
New Avatar Anime Series Revealed at Comic-Con 2025
Nickelodeon has announced Avatar: Seven Havens, a new anime-style series set after The Legend of Korra. Revealed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, this marks the first mainline Avatar show in 11 years. The story follows twin Earthbenders — one chosen as the next Avatar.
She’s seen as a threat, not a hero, in a post-cataclysm world. Hunted by spirits and humans, she must uncover her past and save the Seven Havens. The series has 26 episodes split across two seasons. Fans can also look forward to The Legend of Aang animated film, hitting theatres October 9, 2026.
Sakamoto Days Tops Netflix’s 2025 Anime Charts
Netflix’s 2025 mid-year report confirms Sakamoto Days as the most-streamed anime so far. The series earned 24.4 million views, beating Devil May Cry (18M), Mashle (7.9M), The Apothecary Diaries (7.8M), and Dandadan (7.5M). Viewers chose it over many hyped adaptations, proving its rising global appeal.
Based on Yuto Suzuki’s manga, the action-comedy has outperformed expectations. Sakamoto Days is now a standout title in Netflix’s anime line up. The report highlights the platform’s growing anime influence, drawing both new fans and seasoned otaku. With anime viewership rising fast, Netflix continues to be one of the major players in global anime streaming.
Studio Ghibli Screens Grave of the Fireflies in Hiroshima for Peace
Studio Ghibli and Hiroshima are hosting free screenings of Grave of the Fireflies to mark 80 years since the 1945 atomic bombing. The event runs July to September 2025 at the Hiroshima City Cinematographic and Audio-Visual Library.
The 1988 film will screen on August 10 and 11 from a 35mm print. Admission is free for viewers under 25. Standard fees apply for others.
It is also planned to screen Studio Ghibli classic Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, a futuristic pro-environmental fantasy movie directed by the legend Hayao Miyazaki. It is, but one of several iconic anime features selected by the venue staff, and Nausicaa will be shown on Sept. 15 and 23.
Heads Up, Sensitive Viewers: Grave of the Fireflies is a beautiful but heart-wrenching film that portrays a young brother and sister struggling to survive in wartime. It features distressing images of starvation, illness, and loss that some viewers may find overwhelming.
In Memoriam
In the past month, the entertainment industry has lost several prominent figures. We join fans, families, and friends in mourning as we say farewell to these beloved heroes.
Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne, iconic Black Sabbath frontman and “Prince of Darkness,” died on 22 July 2025 at age 76. Thousands mourned during his farewell procession in Birmingham, with tributes pouring in from music legends, including Elton John, honouring his lasting impact on rock and heavy metal history.
Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, died July 24, 2025 at age 71 after suffering a heart attack. The wrestling icon competed in WWE, WCW, TNA, NJPW, and AWA, claiming six world titles. After June neck surgery, his health rapidly declined. Hogan’s charisma, physique, and signature mustache cemented his legendary status.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Malcolm-Jamal Warner (1970–2025), Emmy-nominated actor best known for The Cosby Show, tragically died at 54 while swimming in Costa Rica. Remembered for roles in Malcolm & Eddie and The Resident, Warner drowned after being caught in a strong current; tributes poured in from stars including Bill Cosby and Raven-Symoné.
Chuck Mangione
Chuck Mangione (1940–2025), legendary American flugelhorn player and composer, rose to fame with his 1978 jazz-pop hit Feels So Good. A member of Art Blakey’s band and King of the Hill guest star, Mangione passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Rochester home on July 22, aged 84.
Upcoming Anime 2025 Releases
A host of new anime series is in the works, most of which are set to premiere next year. Here’s a look at what’s coming:
New Series Premiering
Monster Strike: Deadverse Reloaded
The anime is scheduled to premiere on Tokyo MX and 45 other stations in October 2025. This marks the first television anime for the franchise.
Unmei no Makimodoshi (Fate Rewinder)
Unmei no Makimodoshi was nominated in the 69th Shogakukan Manga Awards in 2023.
Returning Series
Second Season of 'Black Clover' Announced
As soon as a release date is announced, we will let you know!
Interesting Anime News
“It’s Really Difficult”: Naruto’s Creator Gets Brutally Honest About Boruto’s Polarizing Legacy
Masashi Kishimoto revealed he’s only an advisor on Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, not the main writer, Mikio Ikemoto holds that role. This explains the manga’s weaker plot, lacklustre characters, and why it hasn’t lived up to Naruto’s legacy.
The Biggest Anime of 2025 Is Topping Netflix's Charts With a Surprising Streak
The hit anime Dandadan has skyrocketed to Netflix’s Global Top 10 thanks to its bold mix of psychic battles, romance, and chaotic supernatural flair, captivating both anime fans and mainstream audiences.
With vibrant animation from Science SARU and emotionally charged storytelling, Dandadan is quickly cementing itself as one of the most defining anime titles of the year.
Tokyo Ghoul Reignites Remake Rumors With a New Anime Release Nobody Saw Coming
With Sink Your Teeth: A Tokyo Ghoul Celebration hitting theatres in July 2025, fans are hopeful this compilation film marks the first step toward a faithful anime remake that corrects the missteps of the original adaptation.
Highlighting pivotal Season 1 moments, the film reignites interest in Kaneki’s story and the potential for a darker, manga-accurate reboot.
After 7 Years, One of Anime’s Most-Anticipated Sequel Has Leaked, Leaving Fans Furious
All 12 episodes of Grand Blue Dreaming Season 2 were leaked online ahead of the official Summer 2025 release, featuring unfinished content and sparking widespread concern over anime piracy.
While the release schedule remains unchanged, the incident underscores the urgent need to support official platforms and protect creators from the growing threat of unauthorised distribution.
Manga News
Oda Drops a Double Break Bomb on One Piece Fans
One Piece fans just got hit with a double dose of bad news. The manga is taking two breaks, July 27 and August 10. Chapter 1156 will now drop on August 3, and Chapter 1157 on August 17. One break is for Oda’s rest; the other is due to a Japanese holiday.
This follows a recent trend: Oda now rests after two chapters instead of three. It worries fans, but there’s a silver lining – it gives Oda time to recover and keeps the story alive. At this pace, One Piece might not end for another decade.
Kaiju No. 8 Manga Ends After 5-Year Run
Kaiju No. 8 is coming to an end. The hit manga will conclude on July 17 with Chapter 129, wrapping up a five-year journey. First serialised in Shounen Jump+ in July 2020, the series has over 18 million copies in circulation.
VIZ Media licensed the English release in 2021. Volume 13 launched in June, and Volume 14 hits shelves on September 2.
The story follows Kafka Hibino, a failed Defence Force hopeful who gains the power to turn into a kaiju. He fights to protect Japan from monsters, and reclaim his lost dream.
Gundam Wing Turns 30 with Major Announcements
Gundam enthusiasts! Mobile Suit Gundam Wing is celebrating its 30th anniversary in a big way. Bandai Namco dropped exciting news at San Diego Comic-Con. A new anniversary video, Operation 30th, features classic and new scenes set to TWO-MIX music.
A new manga, Gundam Wing 0.5, bridges Endless Waltz and Frozen Teardrop. It’s written by Katsuyuki Sumisawa and illustrated by Sakura Asagi, available now in English. Fans can also look forward to a theatrical re-release of Endless Waltz in Japan and the U.S. The 1995 series remains iconic and is currently streaming on Crunchyroll.
Demon Slayer Manga Surpasses 220 Million Copies Worldwide
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has topped 220 million manga copies in circulation worldwide. Japan accounts for 164 million, and 56 million come from global fans. The manga ended in 2020 after debuting in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2016.
A new trilogy begins with the Infinity Castle film hitting 443 screens in Japan. International release is planned in 150+ regions. U.S. and Canadian fans can watch it on September 12 via Crunchyroll, Aniplex, and Sony.
The anime started in 2019 and has since adapted multiple arcs, streaming on Hulu, Crunchyroll, and Funimation. The hype, with good reaso, continues to rise.
Shuuichi Shigeno Launches New Manga "Subaru to Subaru" Continuing Initial D Legacy
Shuuichi Shigeno, famed creator of Initial D and MF Ghost, has started a new manga titled Subaru to Subaru in Weekly Young Magazine’s 34th issue. This sequel continues the beloved racing saga’s plot line. Initial D ran from 1995 to 2013, selling over 56 million copies worldwide and spawning multiple anime adaptations and movies.
MF Ghost, serialised from 2017 to 2025, recently concluded with 23 volumes and two anime seasons, with a third coming in 2026. Kodansha continues to publish and reprint these works digitally and in print, keeping Shigeno’s racing universe alive for fans worldwide.
Manga News Links
Manga artist Ito inducted into Will Eisner comic Hall of Fame
Legendary horror manga artist Junji Ito, known for Tomie and Uzumaki, was inducted into the prestigious Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, joining the ranks of iconic creators like Osamu Tezuka and Hayao Miyazaki.
Ito, previously a four-time Eisner Award winner, expressed deep gratitude and highlighted the global recognition of manga for its diverse genres and rich storytelling.
Manga about Prince Shotoku to be made into Noh-kyogen play
Ryoko Yamagishi’s acclaimed manga Hi Izuru Tokoro no Tenshi, centred on the enigmatic Prince Shotoku, is being adapted into a Noh-kyogen stage play directed by renowned kyogen actor Nomura Mansai, who also stars as the lead.
Blending the manga’s supernatural themes with Noh’s mystical storytelling, the sold-out production debuts August 7, 2025, at Tokyo’s Kanze Noh Theater.
Young Magazine to give away special US-only edition with works by new and legendary mangaka
To celebrate its 45th anniversary, iconic seinen manga publisher Young Magazine is releasing a free 1,044-page special edition in the U.S., featuring 20 boundary-pushing stories, including new works by acclaimed creators like Shuzo Oshimi, whose autobiographical Me and Bob Dylan (and My Father) will debut.
Available at Anime NYC (Aug 21–24) and Kinokuniya stores nationwide (Aug 21–Nov 10), fans can vote for their favourite title online, with the winner added to the K Manga app and exclusive prizes up for grabs.
'I'm Glad It's Over': Vinland Saga Creator Reveals 'Weight Has Been Lifted' After 20 Years
After 20 years of serialization, Vinland Saga officially concluded on July 24, 2025, with creator Makoto Yukimura expressing heartfelt gratitude and relief at completing Thorfinn’s epic journey.
Reflecting on the series’ emotional weight, Yukimura shared insights on growing up, kindness, and the challenges of bringing his long-running Viking saga to a close.
Nippon News
Children’s Cafeteria Battles Inflation to Feed Kids in Osaka
Hitomi Yamamoto runs the children’s cafeteria “L.D.K.” in Osaka. Despite soaring prices and a doubled expenses, she remains determined. The cafeteria serves affordable meal, 300 yen each, to elementary and junior high students. Rising food and energy costs have increased expenses.
Rice prices jumped, and bills doubled, pushing monthly expenses to 80,000 yen. Yamamoto works a part-time job to cover costs. Nationwide, children’s cafeterias face similar struggles amid inflation. With the House of Councillors election approaching, Yamamoto urges candidates to support these vital community spaces for children’s well-being.
Over 1200 Suspected of Cheating on TOEIC Exams in Japan
Over 1200 TOEIC test scores were cancelled in Japan after a cheating scandal. A student was arrested for impersonation, triggering an investigation. The Institute for International Business Communications (IIBC) found many test-takers used the same address to take the exam.
TOEIC’s owner, ETS, stressed strong security measures like AI monitoring and biometric ID. The investigation is ongoing, but all cheating cases are identified. Experts warn both paper-based and online English tests face security challenges. Past scandals show testing integrity is vital to protect honest test-takers worldwide.
Board of Education Apologizes Over Teacher’s Part-Time Job
A middle school teacher in Okayama was reprimanded for working a part-time job. He worked at a convenience store on his day off. The school found this unacceptable, despite no impact on his teaching duties.
The teacher worked part-time to supplement his income after being rehired at a lower salary post-retirement. He earned about 1.7 million yen since November 2023. The Board of Education apologised for causing distress to students and parents. The teacher plans to resign and has stopped working at the store.
The incident sparked debate over strict rules on teachers’ side jobs. In some countries teachers having a second job is not a problem but in Japan teachers are seen as civil servants, and civil servants are not allowed to be employed by anyone else, without difficult to get express permission, while working a civil servant job.
Japan Sees Record 21.5 Million Foreign Visitors in First Half of 2025
Japan welcomed 21.51 million foreign tourists from January to June 2025, a 21% increase year-over-year. It’s the fastest Japan has ever reached 20 million visitors.
June alone saw 3.37 million tourists, the highest ever for that month. Visitors from China rose 53.5%, South Korea 7.7%, and Russia surged by 103.7%. Middle East arrivals jumped 53.8%.
Tourists spent a record 4.8 trillion yen (USD 32.27 billion). Despite a 0.4% dip in Hong Kong visitors due to disaster rumours, tourism remains strong. Japan aims for 60 million visitors by 2030, with new strategies to promote rural travel underway.
Tokyo Police Arrest Seven alleged skelms in ¥54 Million Illegal Food Delivery Account Scam Involving Foreign Workers
Tokyo police have arrested seven alleged skelms, including Kotaro Yamazaki, 51, for running a scam that enabled 1,400 foreigners without work visas to operate as food delivery drivers through illegally transferred Demae-can accounts. The group earned approximately ¥54 million ($366,000) by recruiting Japanese citizens to lend accounts and charging foreigners monthly fees to use them.
The operation, active since 2022, involved social media advertising and brokers targeting individuals from countries like Vietnam and Uzbekistan. Demae-can is now considering legal action against the perpetrators, as the scam exploited its system and violated Japan’s labour and immigration laws.
More News From Nippon
Teachers in Japan arrested for secretly filming kids
A disturbing scandal has rocked Japan as several elementary school teachers were arrested for secretly taking indecent photos and videos of their students. The news has sparked outrage nationwide, with parents demanding immediate action to safeguard children’s privacy and safety in schools.
Authorities have assured the public that the perpetrators will face the full extent of the law. Concerned parents are calling for stricter monitoring and preventive measures to restore trust in the education system.
Lower risk of depression may be tied to diet of Japanese food
A new study by the Japan Institute for Health Security found that people who frequently consume traditional Japanese foods, like rice, miso soup, fish, and vegetables, are significantly less likely to exhibit depressive symptoms.
After analysing data from over 12,000 participants, researchers concluded that a nutrient-rich Japanese diet may contribute to better mental health, with those scoring highest on a “traditional food index” showing a 17% lower risk of depression.
What could also help to fight depression is to lower the prices of food, which is a worldwide worry for everyone.
Sumo: Kotoshoho nears title as Kusano downs Aonishiki to stay in race
Kotoshoho (12-2) surged into the lead at the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament with a decisive win over Kirishima, needing just one more victory to claim his first Emperor’s Cup, though rivals Kusano and Aonishiki remain in contention for a possible historic three-way playoff.
The final day showdown will see Kotoshoho face Aonishiki, while Kusano takes on Takayasu, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
In Other Stories
Trump’s Tariff Delay Sparks Global Trade Uncertainty
President Trump has delayed new tariffs until August 1, creating temporary relief but ongoing uncertainty for global trade partners. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and the European Union are cautiously optimistic, while smaller nations such as South Africa remain uncertain about their status. The administration has threatened tariffs of up to 40% on autos and parts from 14 nations.
Japan is lobbying hard to avoid the auto tariffs, while South Korea has pledged to negotiate fairly to protect its exports. India is reportedly close to finalising a trade agreement that could prevent steep penalties. South Africa, facing a proposed 30% tariff, has strongly pushed back, warning of serious consequences for its economy.
The European Union, although still negotiating, may receive exemptions similar to past carve-outs. In the meantime, global businesses face growing pressure, unable to make long-term plans due to the volatile trade climate. Companies are already dealing with rising costs and shifting supply chains as they brace for potential disruption.
Critics argue that Trump is using tariff threats as leverage to force quicker trade deals, but many smaller businesses fear they may not survive the uncertainty. For firms like DeMejico, a California-based furniture maker, the lack of clarity is affecting growth, hiring, and long-term stability.
Attack on Titan Copyright Case Settled in Russia
A major copyright dispute involving Attack on Titan has ended in Russia. Kodansha sued IQ Art Management LLC in July 2024 for hosting an unauthorised exhibition. The event, held in Saint Petersburg, showcased Attack on Titan and other works without permission.
On April 7, 2025, the court ruled in Kodansha’s favour. IQ Art must now pay 3.75 million rubles in damages. Kodansha called the verdict “extremely significant” and stressed its global anti-piracy stance.
This case marks a rare victory against physical piracy. Most recent efforts have focused on online piracy and illegal streaming platforms.
Ryan Gosling’s Space Epic “Project Hail Mary” Stuns at Comic-Con
Fans at Comic-Con got an early look at Project Hail Mary, the upcoming sci-fi film starring Ryan Gosling, landing in theatres March 2026. Gosling plays Ryland Grace, a teacher-turned-astronaut sent to save Earth from a solar disaster. He joined directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, screenwriter Drew Goddard, and author Andy Weir on stage.
The movie is based on Weir’s bestselling novel. Fans cheered unseen clips, especially those featuring Rocky, an alien with a strong bond to Grace. The Star Trek universe also thrilled crowds with sneak peeks of Strange New Worlds and new series Starfleet Academy.
VTuber News
VTuber Scandal: Ironmouse Leaves VShojo Over Missing $500K in Charity Funds
Ironmouse, Twitch’s most-subscribed VTuber, has left VShojo. She accused the agency of failing to donate $500,000 raised for the Immune Deficiency Foundation. The money came from a Twitch subathon. Ironmouse, who suffers from CVID, called it a personal betrayal.
She said VShojo misled her and owed her funds. The revelation triggered an exodus. Major talents like Henya, Projekt Melody, and Kson have also left. Kson claimed she hadn’t been paid since September 2024.
On July 27, VShojo CEO Justin “Gunrun” Ignacio admitted mismanagement. He announced the company would shut down. Gunrun also confirmed that funds raised through talent may have been wrongly spent.
Community backlash followed, with ex-members calling out toxic practices. Veibae alleged the agency slandered talents online. Others said VShojo withheld payments and fostered infighting.
VShojo, once a top Western VTuber agency, has collapsed. Nearly all high-profile streamers have exited. However, talents like Ironmouse will continue as independent VTubers.
The scandal marks a turning point in VTubing’s growth. Fans are now calling for better transparency and protection for creators. As the dust settles, trust in VTuber agencies remains shaken.
Hololive Night at Dodgers Stadium Was a Grand Slam for VTuber Fans
Hololive Night at Dodgers Stadium stole the show during Anime Expo 2025. Fans gathered to cheer on VTubers like Biboo, Ina, and IRyS. The crowd erupted as the VTubers hit the jumbotron.
Excited fans ran, danced, and formed a plushie mountain tribute on the field. Ina’s iconic “WAAAH” brought loud cheers. IRyS joked fans were “touching grass.” Biboo even bantered during a staring contest.
Fans joined in dance battles and mascot races. Shuba Duck won big, hyping up the audience. Cameos from Mori Calliope, Kiara, and Bae amped up the fun. The night ended with a powerful concert.
More VTubing News
Gaming News
Stop Killing Games Hits 1.4 Million Signatures, Heads to EU Commission
The Stop Killing Games campaign, launched by YouTuber Ross Scott, has passed 1.4 million signatures on the European Citizens’ Initiative. It demands publishers offer end-of-life solutions, so games can run without company support.
Initially struggling to reach the 1 million mark, the movement gained traction fast, prompting concern even from Ubisoft’s CEO. The goal isn’t lifetime support, but preservation.
Despite concerns over fake signatures, the campaign now has a 400,000-signature buffer. With validation underway, the EU Commission must respond within six months. The fight to protect digital game ownership is officially on the European stage.
Pirate Software Loses 120K YouTube Subs Amid Controversy
Pirate Software, also known as Thor, is facing major backlash online. In just two weeks, he lost over 120,000 YouTube subscribers, according to Social Blade.
The drop followed his comments on the Stop Killing Games campaign, which sparked a wave of criticism. Ross Scott, the campaign’s founder, publicly responded to Thor’s remarks in a video, fuelling the fallout.
On top of that, Billy Mitchell called him out on X, claiming “Pirate Software will be sued.” Thor responded casually on Twitch, relying on his legal team. The controversy continues as fans debate the reasons behind the mass unsubscribes.
Itch.io Removes NSFW Games Amid Payment Pressure
On July 23, Itch.io began hiding NSFW-tagged games from search. No notice was given. Affected titles range from LGBTQ+ stories to mental health-focused games.
Founder Leaf Corcoran blamed pressure from payment processors, triggered by anti-porn group Collective Shout. The group urged Mastercard, Visa, and others to stop supporting platforms with adult content.
The move mirrors Steam’s recent removal of similar games. Critics say it’s censorship driven by financial coercion. Creators, many from marginalised communities, are hit hardest.
Itch.io is reviewing all adult content. Some games may return. Others will be permanently removed to meet compliance rules.
Ghost of Yōtei Gets October Release and Three Cinematic Modes
Sony dropped fresh details on Ghost of Yōtei during the latest State of Play. The sequel to Ghost of Tsushima launches October 2 on PlayStation 5. A new 20-minute showcase revealed gameplay, story, and accessibility options. It also introduced three cinematic game modes: Watanabe, Kurosawa, and Miike Mode.
Watanabe Mode adds lo-fi beats during combat. Kurosawa Mode delivers a black-and-white film aesthetic. Miike Mode ups the gore and grime with tighter camera angles. Players follow Atsu’s journey through Ezo as she hunts the Yōtei Six. Expect samurai drama, stylish visuals, and atmospheric flair.
More Gaming News
Only in Japan
Common Sense Still Not Common
Summer means swimming and cold drinks. But the Japan Lifesaving Association warns: don’t swim after drinking alcohol. About 20% of waterfront emergencies involve alcohol. Drinking impairs judgment and balance, increasing drowning risk. In 2024, 22% of emergency transports from beaches involved alcohol.
Some cities, like Zushi, ban alcohol on beaches but allow it at huts. Officials say staff can control drinking there. Dr. Nobuya Kitamura urges, “If you drink, don’t swim.” He stresses this for everyone’s safety. Common sense isn’t so common, but it can save lives. Takeshi observed that Durban’s North Beach also were filled with vacationers that were blitzed, putting fellow vacationers in danger and at risk.
Ito Mayor Faces Resignation Calls Over False Degree Claim
Ito Mayor Maki Takubo is under fire for falsely claiming she graduated from Toyo University. In truth, she was expelled. Less than two months after her election, the city assembly passed a resolution urging her to resign. A special committee will investigate if she intentionally lied.
A city newsletter listed her as a Toyo graduate. Takubo later claimed she believed she earned the degree. Citizens plan to file a criminal complaint. Assembly members say her actions insulted voters. Anonymous tips and missing records sparked the scandal. Takubo denies violating election laws but faces growing pressure to step down.
Court Ends 20-Year Trash Nightmare for Elderly Man
After 20 years, a court sided with an 80-year-old man living next to a garbage site in Chiba. The site caused vrot smells, noisy crows, and constant gemors. Neighbours ignored clean-up rules, leaving the man to clean alone. He asked for the site to be moved, but was rejected.
In 2023, he sued over emotional distress and poor living conditions. The court ruled in his favour, banning use of the site and ordering it moved. The judge said the damage went beyond tolerable limits. The ruling is final. The site will now be relocated 10 metres away.
Game Over: Video Game Spending Tops Japan’s Romance Turn-Offs
A new survey shows spending on video games is Japan’s biggest romantic turn-off. Conducted by Biz Hits, it asked 505 people about unattractive money habits in partners. Surprisingly, game spending ranked above gambling. 13.3% of respondents picked it as their top dealbreaker.
Gambling followed at 9.1%. Free-to-play games and gacha mechanics may be to blame, as they mimic gambling behaviour. One woman said her boyfriend used borrowed money for in-game purchases. A man said his girlfriend dropped ¥10,000 on loot boxes. While values differ, moderation in gaming expenses may help keep romance alive. Even if you love gaming, your favourite hobby may not be welcomed in the game of love.
Interesting articles from Japan
Lotteria releases an unadon eel rice bowl burger in Japan for a limited time
To celebrate Doyo no Ushi no Hi (Japan’s Midsummer Day of the Ox), Lotteria launched a limited-time Unadon Burger on 16 July, stuffed with grilled eel, rice patty, egg, and teriyaki mayo to recreate the flavour of the traditional eel rice bowl.
This bold summer release blends tradition with fast food innovation, but it’s only available while supplies last.
Burger King’s new sumo burger thuds into Japan…but is it worth the hype?
Burger King Japan has unleashed the monstrous Baby Body Burger, a five-patty heavyweight approved by the Japan Sumo Association and weighing in at a jaw-dropping 668 grams and 1,876 kcal.
This towering meat titan, part of a new sumo-themed collaboration, challenges even the bravest food warriors with its flame-grilled power and Yokozuna-level presence.
Why is self-censoring tape appearing all over Tokyo’s host club ads?
As of June 28, Japan’s revised Entertainment Business Law prohibits host clubs from advertising individual host rankings, earnings, or exploiting romantic feelings to coerce customers into spending more, following concerns over rising debt and pressure on women to enter adult work.
Clubs can no longer allow drinking on credit or accept referral kickbacks, forcing a major overhaul in marketing strategies across Tokyo’s nightlife scene.
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Feel like ‘Heidi’: Swing across suspension bridge in Osaka
Goda Bridge in Ibaraki, Osaka Prefecture, is Japan’s longest pedestrian-only suspension bridge at 420 meters, offering heart-pounding attractions like bungee jumping, a Heidi-inspired swing, and panoramic views from a 60-meter observation tower.
Open since March and stretching over the Aigawa Dam lake, the bridge complex blends scenic beauty with adrenaline-pumping experiences, making it a must-visit for thrill-seeking travellers.
Light Novel News
Controversy Shakes ‘I May Be a Guild Receptionist’ Manga and Light Novels
‘I May Be a Guild Receptionist, but I’ll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time’ is being pulled from Japanese shelves. The artist, Gaou, admitted to sexual acts with a minor. This shocking revelation led to the removal of physical and digital copies. Publisher Kadokawa confirmed the series is not cancelled, but will be re-released with a new illustrator.
Other works by Gaou, like Welcome to the Outcast’s Restaurant!, face similar changes. Despite the anime’s success, this controversy may hurt future projects. The focus now is on justice and moving forward responsibly.
I May Be a Guild Receptionist might be getting pulled from the shelves, but that doesn’t mean the story is over. We are relieved because it is quite a popular series.
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