In Reporting a Scandal, the Media Are Accused of Just Listening

A highly publicized corruption investigation has weakened Japan’s opposition party, but many worry about the failure of the news media to press the prosecutors for answers.

Spread of Swine Flu Puts Japan in Crisis Mode

The widening outbreak is a particular shock to this hygiene-obsessed country, which has been harder hit than any other country outside North America.

In Japan, Secure Jobs Have a Cost

Some are questioning the system, bolstered by government subsidies, that keeps otherwise idle workers occupied.

Young Japanese Savor Chance to Play With Their Heroes

Ichiro Suzuki and Daisuke Matsuzaka have inspired young players by showing them it is possible for Japanese players to succeed on the world stage.

Japan’s Crisis of the Mind

Washington may see Japan, the world’s second-largest economy, as a powerful nation, but the Japanese don’t see themselves in the same light.

Japan’s Ruling Party Faces Political Extinction

Time could be running out for Japan’s unpopular prime minister, Taro Aso, and his Liberal Democratic Party and its half-century monopoly on political power in Japan.

Minister Quits at Bad Time for Japan’s Economy

The resignation of the finance minister, Shoichi Nakagawa, criticized for his odd behavior at a Group of 7 news conference, was a major setback for Prime Minister Taro Aso.

Clinton Offers Words of Reassurance While in Japan

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton called the U.S. alliance with Japan a “cornerstone” of American foreign policy.

Hard-Working Man

The Japanese admire Abe Lincoln because he is seen as a self-made man.

In Japan, New Jobless May Lack Safety Net

Hundreds and perhaps thousands of Japanese workers are finding themselves literally cast into the streets as the country’s economy suffers.