Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Wen hopes for better China-Japan ties

.....Taizo Nishimuro heads the Japanese delegation. During the meeting he thanked Wen for China's support in the aftermath of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Sunday, October 23, 2011 05:41 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_01.html

Govt to make airports better prepared for tsunami

Japan's transport ministry has drawn up guidelines to protect the country's airports from tsunami.

Sunday, October 23, 2011 10:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_11.html

Princess Mako celebrates 20th birthday

......She told reporters that she visited the disaster-hit prefectures of Iwate and Miyagi as a volunteer and took care of children there. She said she realized that there are things that cannot be understood without seeing the situation first-hand.

Sunday, October 23, 2011 12:52 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_14.html

Crown Prince attends German Festival

.....In his speech, the Crown Prince thanked Germany for its assistance after the earthquake and tsunami on March 11th.

Sunday, October 23, 2011 23:08 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_28.html

Kyoto holds "Festival of the Ages"

Survivors of the March 11th disaster who are living in Kyoto were invited to watch the parade.

Sunday, October 23, 2011 23:08 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_27.html
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Yomiuri online

Blood clots found in veins of evacuees' legs

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Seven percent of residents in temporary housing units for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, have developed blood clots in their legs similar to those suffered by airline passengers in so-called economy-class syndrome, according to local doctors.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111022002173.htm
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AJW

Princess Mako celebrates her 20th birthday

....She also said that she had engaged in volunteer work in the quake-affected towns of Yamada and Otsuchi in Iwate Prefecture, and Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, such as helping children with their studies and playing with them during her summer break.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/people/AJ2011102315556

Triumph, confusion marked Japan-based NGOs in Tohoku

Battle tested and experienced from operating overseas in war-torn districts and areas suffering from natural disasters, Japan-based NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) rushed to the Tohoku region following the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102314128
__________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Princess Mako turns 20, says she will try to act appropriately as adult

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/23/20111023p2g00m0dm059000c.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Japan to study ocean debris from disaster

Japan's Environment Ministry says it will start tracking the millions of tons of debris that have been drifting in the Pacific Ocean ever since the March 11th tsunami.

Monday, October 24, 2011 11:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_17.html

Auditors call for quays to be more quake-proof

Japanese auditors have asked the land and infrastructure ministry to take measures to ensure that quays across the country can withstand strong earthquakes.

Monday, October 24, 2011 11:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_18.html

Emperor meets German President Christian Wulff

The Emperor has expressed thanks to visiting German President Christian Wulff for the country's help after the March disaster.

Monday, October 24, 2011 19:02 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_31.html
____________________________________________
Yomiuri online

DPJ to boost talks on consumption tax hike

The Democratic Party of Japan plans to boost internal discussions on building a framework for a consumption tax hike, as the party now has a brighter prospect of passing the third supplementary budget and related bills through the Diet next month.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111023003054.htm

Tokyo's waterways eyed for emergencies / River, canal docks key to evacuating residents if strong inland earthquake strikes near capital

In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tokyo's waterborne transportation network is attracting renewed attention as an alternative to road and rail transport.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111023002652.htm

Disaster hub hospitals to be strengthened

The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry has decided to review its criteria for designating so-called disaster base hospitals that accept large numbers of injured people at times of disaster.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111023002970.htm
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AJW

Japan posts 1.6 trillion yen trade deficit

Japan posted a 1.667 trillion yen ($21.85 billion) trade deficit for the first six months of fiscal 2011, according to a preliminary report on trade statistics released by the Finance Ministry on Oct. 24.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/AJ2011102415636

Researcher says 4 quakes could trigger huge tsunami

In a terrifying scenario where four massive earthquakes strike in conjunction along the ocean trench from off the Tokai region to Shikoku, a 20-meter tsunami in Kochi Prefecture and a 15-meter tsunami in Shizuoka Prefecture could be unleashed, a computer simulation has found.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/analysis/AJ2011101815125

Statue unveiled at tragedy-hit school

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi Prefecture -- A granite statue of a mother and child was unveiled Oct. 23 at Okawa Elementary School, which lost 84 pupils and teachers in tsunami triggered by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011102415584
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan logs biggest trade deficit for 1st-half of fiscal year

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The March earthquake and tsunami resulted in Japan's biggest ever trade deficit for the first half of a fiscal year, but the latest data showed exports continuing to recover in September following their sharp fall after the disaster, the government said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/24/20111024p2g00m0bu092000c.html
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Jiji press

2-Stage Consumption Tax Hike Likely: Japan Vice Minister

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102400165

Japan Fixed Property Tax Revenue to Fall by Record 400 B. Yen

Tokyo, Oct. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japan's fixed property tax revenues in fiscal 2012 will fall by some 400 billion yen from the previous year, the largest annual decline ever, a government estimate shows.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102400421

Japan to Strengthen Tsunami Damage Prevention Steps

Tokyo, Oct. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japan's land ministry plans to revise the flood prevention law to strengthen steps aimed at reducing tsunami damage, ministry officials said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102400700

German Survivor of Tsunami Delivers Thank-You Message to Lifesaver

Tokyo, Oct. 24 (Jiji Press)--More than seven months after the lives of his family was saved from high walls of water, a thank-you message from Juergen Spielberg of Dusseldorf finally reached the Japanese man who helped them out of the killer tsunami touched off by the 9.0-magnitude earthquake that hit Japan in March.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102400822
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Sankei news

temporary fish market opens
Minamisanriku town, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Govt to reject personnel authority's wage cut

.....However, the government had previously submitted a bill to the Diet in June this year seeking an average 7.8 percent cut in wages and bonuses. It was designed to secure enough funds to rebuild areas hit by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011 16:19 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_23.html
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Yomiuri online

Property tax revenue to fall 400 billion yen in fiscal 2012

The Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry has estimated that total revenue from property tax will decrease by 400 billion yen in fiscal 2012 from the previous year.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111024005115.htm

1.67 tril. yen trade deficit in 1st half of FY11

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111024003843.htm

IN THE NEWS / Miyu sings message of hope

MORIOKA--Vocalist Miyu of the girls group Zone performed live on Oct. 14 for students of Kesen Middle School in Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture, hoping to inspire them to hold on to their dreams.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111024002725.htm

Miyako seawall height to be raised / Iwate prefectural govt plans to increase to 14.7 meters to safeguard residents

MORIOKA--The Iwate prefectural government plans to increase the height of the huge seawalls in the Taro district of Miyako, Iwate Prefecture, as it repairs the damage from the massive March 11 tsunami, it has been learned.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111024004201.htm
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AJW

BOJ to cut growth projections for fiscal 2011, 2012

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/AJ2011102515733

Trade deficit for entire fiscal year now looks likely

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011102515748

School trips to disaster areas offer sobering sights

As junior high school student Yu Maeda stood atop a 10-meter high coastal levee in Iwate Prefecture that the tsunami swept over on March 11 and looked out over the devastated city of Miyako, he saw a sight he will never forget.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102415629

Award-winning child actor thanks people of Miyagi

Award-winning 12-year-old actor Hajime Yoshii expressed his gratitude to the people of quake-hit Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, at a news conference Oct. 24 in Tokyo.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/AJ2011102515692

School turned museum recalls Showa-era shopping street

MIYAKO, Iwate Prefecture--A fitting venue, an old school here built more than 70 years ago, now houses a popular local museum that recreates a shopping street from the Showa Era (1926-1989), when the facility itself was in its heyday.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/AJ2011102315552
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Perfect game proof of triumph of will over adversity for amateur Sendai pitcher

OSAKA -- For amateur pitcher Toshiharu Moriuchi, who hurled a perfect game for his JR East Tohoku team in the 82nd Intercity Baseball Tournament on Oct. 24, victory was not just sweet; it was proof of the triumph of will over adversity.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/sports/news/20111025p2a00m0na016000c.html

Gov't OKs report promoting TPP for makers hit by high yen, quake

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Cabinet of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda Tuesday adopted a white paper calling for a conclusion of Trans-Pacific Partnership and other free trade pacts to strengthen competitiveness of manufacturers rocked by the higher yen and the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/25/20111025p2g00m0bu112000c.html

Bill to create reconstruction agency to give minister strong power

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Legislation to create an agency to oversee the reconstruction of areas damaged by the March earthquake and tsunami would grant the minister in charge the power to recommend other Cabinet ministers take action to solve problems, according to its full text obtained Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/25/20111025p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Traditional 'kagura' dancers bring cheer to disaster evacuees

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- Traditional "kagura" dancers performed to flutes and drums at a temporary housing neighborhood here on Oct. 23, entertaining an audience of around 100 with their powerful display.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/25/20111025p2a00m0na009000c.html

Gov't reaffirms plan to shun personnel authority's pay proposal

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese government on Tuesday reconfirmed its plan not to implement a proposed slight reduction in salaries for national government employees and instead seek enactment of a bill aimed at cutting their salaries by far more to secure funds for reconstruction projects from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster, officials said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/25/20111025p2g00m0dm084000c.html

2 calves touted as 'rays of hope' at tsunami-ravaged agriculture high school in Miyagi

NATORI, Miyagi -- Two calves born from dairy cattle that had miraculously survived the March 11 tsunami arrived at a barn built here next to a temporary school building for Miyagi Prefectural Agricultural High School, with students welcoming and touting the animals as "rays of hope."

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/25/20111025p2a00m0na014000c.html
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Jiji press

Govt Decides Not to Adopt Agency's Proposal on Govt Worker Pay

Tokyo, Oct. 25 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government, in a very rare move, decided Tuesday not to adopt the National Personnel Authority's proposal to cut salaries of national civil servants by 0.23 pct on average for fiscal 2011 that ends in March next year.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102500351

Double-Loan Relief Guidelines to Cover More Disaster Victims

Tokyo, Oct. 25 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese banking industry plan to expand the scope of existing guidelines for rescuing individuals who were affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and have been forced to take on additional housing and other loans, informed sources have said.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102500389

DBJ to Lend 500 B. Yen to Boost Japan Industries, Reconstruction Efforts

Tokyo, Oct. 25 (Jiji Press)--The Development Bank of Japan said Tuesday it has allocated 500 billion yen for a loan program aimed at making domestic companies competitive and helping reconstruction efforts following the March 11 disaster.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102500660

Japan to Create 500,000 Jobs

Tokyo, Oct. 25 (Jiji Press)--Japan will create some 500,000 jobs in areas including those devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the labor ministry said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102501022
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Sankei news

Civil Aviation College - Sendai Branch reopens on 25 Oct

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Ibaraki population posts sharp drop

Statistics show that the population of Ibaraki Prefecture, north of Tokyo, fell sharply after the March 11th disaster in northeastern Japan.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011 11:35 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/26_14.html
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Yomiuri online

Miyagi communities on verge of extinction

SENDAI--Small communities tucked in the deep coves of Oshika Peninsula in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, hard hit by the March 11 tsunami, are struggling against extinction.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111025004799.htm

Storehouse that survived tsunami to be preserved

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--A century-old storehouse in Ishinomaki that somehow survived the March 11 tsunami, will be preserved with the support of building experts and enthusiasts across the country.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111025005044.htm
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AJW

Tourism Agency to pay airfare for 10,000 tourists

Soon, once-empty airplanes will be filled with 10,000 foreign tourists heading to Japan, courtesy of free airfare provided by the Japan Tourism Agency.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/AJ2011102615769

Noda to take 30-percent pay cut to push tax hikes

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda will slash his salary by 30 percent in an attempt to win public approval of an 11.2-trillion-yen ($147 billion) tax hike for post-quake reconstruction work, sources said.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102615807

Disaster-stricken schools share experiences via Internet

Through the magic of video conferencing, elementary schools in Japan, Australia and New Zealand on Oct. 26 linked up to share their experiences during a recent spate of natural disasters.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102615841
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Domestic white goods shipments up in April-Sept. to highest in decade

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The value of home electronics, or white goods, shipped in Japan rose 1.4 percent in the April to September period from a year earlier to 1.20 trillion yen, marking the highest level in a decade, an industry body said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2g00m0bu093000c.html

Hitachi revises upward its April-Sept. earnings estimates

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Hitachi Ltd. said Wednesday it has revised upward its earnings projections for the April-September period due chiefly to a faster-than-expected recovery of its manufacturing bases that were paralyzed by the March 11 disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2g00m0bu094000c.html

U.N. body hopes Japan will promote importance of disaster preparedness

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The U.N. Development Program hopes Japan will help promote the importance of antidisaster preparedness among other countries based on its harsh experience from the March earthquake and tsunami, its senior official told a recent interview.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2g00m0dm001000c.html

Japan tsunami debris floating toward Hawaii

HONOLULU (AP) -- Up to 20 million tons of tsunami debris floating from Japan could arrive on Hawaii's shores by early 2013, before reaching the West Coast, according to estimates by University of Hawaii scientists.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2g00m0dm006000c.html

Japan to improve tsunami warnings following March 11 disaster

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japan Meteorological Agency on Wednesday proposed to improve tsunami warnings, after learning lessons from the March 11 disaster in which tsunami waves were underestimated in initial warnings.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2g00m0dm070000c.html

Volunteers lend an ear to brighten lives of earthquake victims

MORIOKA -- A volunteer organization here is helping earthquake and tsunami victims recover from their devastating experience by simply being there for them to listen to their stories.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2a00m0na003000c.html

Police take steps to prevent bicycle accidents as number of riders increases after quake

Japanese police have finally decided to take comprehensive measures to prevent bicycle accidents after going through many legal twists and turns over the last 50 years, as more people are turning to bicycles to commute to schools and offices in the wake of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2a00m0na016000c.html

Cardboard beds to keep quake victims warm, comfortable in winter

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- A unique idea to distribute cardboard beds at temporary housing units here aims to keep evacuees warm throughout the cold winter to ensure they have a good night's sleep.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/26/20111026p2a00m0na020000c.html
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Jiji press

Hitachi Ups Earnings Estimates on Early Recovery from Disaster

Tokyo, Oct. 26 (Jiji Press)--Hitachi Ltd. <6501> on Wednesday revised up its group earnings forecasts for April-September, helped chiefly by early recovery of its automotive products plant hit by the March 11 quake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011102600433

Japan Automobile Output Down 5.7 Pct in Sept.

Tokyo, Oct. 26 (Jiji Press)--Automobile production in Japan by eight major domestic makers dropped 5.7 pct from a year before to 835,997 units in September, according to data they released Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011102600724

(Update) Japan Auto Output Down 19.2 Pct in April-Sept.

Tokyo, Oct. 26 (Jiji Press)--Automobile production in Japan by eight major domestic makers dropped 19.2 pct from a year before to 3,696,170 units in April-September first half of fiscal 2011, according to data they released on Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011102600857
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Sankei news

Miyagi police searching Suginoshita port
Kesennuma city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

PM, ministers to face wage cuts starting November

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and his cabinet have agreed to take pay cuts starting next month.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 00:30 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_03.html

Japan to internationally pledge tax hike

Japan appears set to pledge to the world that it will double its consumption tax rate to 10 percent.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 04:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_07.html

Government to send expert staff to disaster zone

The Japanese government plans to send staff with expertise in civil engineering and construction to help rebuild areas hit by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 09:40 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_14.html

Bhutan's newly wedded royal couple to visit Tohoku

The king of the Himalayan nation of Bhutan has said he hopes to visit areas hit by the March disaster when he travels to Japan next month.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 10:39 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_16.html

Mental health center for children in disaster zone

Japanese mental health experts will set up a psychological care center to help children who survived the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 12:45 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_19.html

BOJ expands easy money policy

Thursday, October 27, 2011 15:18 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_28.html

Hong Kong actor appointed Japan tourism ambassador

Hong Kong actor Eric Tsang has been made a goodwill envoy to promote tourism to disaster-hit Japan.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 19:43 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_33.html
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Yomiuri online

Tohoku expwys to be toll-free from Dec.

Tolls will be abolished for all vehicles on several sections of expressways in the Tohoku region from December as part of efforts to help areas recovering from the March 11 disaster, the transport ministry has announced.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111026003898.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

New figures show extent of quake's impact on car industry

Japan's eight major automakers all reported year-on-year falls in production during the first half of fiscal 2011, according to figures released Oct. 26.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011102715884
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan automakers' domestic output, sales fall in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- All eight major Japanese automakers reported Wednesday year-on-year falls in domestic vehicle output and sales for the April to September period due to the March 11 quake-tsunami disaster and brisk year-before sales prior to the termination of subsidies for eco-friendly cars.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/27/20111027p2g00m0bu064000c.html

DPJ panels aim to detail sales tax hike plan by mid-December

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Two tax panels of the ruling Democratic Party of Japan agreed Wednesday to work out the details of a planned consumption tax increase and social security reforms by mid-December.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/27/20111027p2g00m0dm001000c.html

89 gangsters received post-quake welfare loans, claim police

MIYAGI -- Eighty-nine gangsters have received post-quake welfare loans here, police told the prefecture's social welfare organization on Oct. 27, warning that the number of illegal recipients could be even higher.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/27/20111027p2a00m0na003000c.html
_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Disaster Areas Increasingly Concerned about Fire at Temp Houses

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Oct. 27 (Jiji Press)--Local authorities in northeastern Japan areas ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are increasingly concerned about the risk of fire at temporary housing complexes, which have a terrace-style, thin-walled design, as more and more residents turn to oil heaters with the approach of winter.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102700666
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Sankei news

wash flags for fisherman
Kesennuma city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

JMA

03:07 JST 28 Oct 2011 37.8N 144.3E 10 km M5.4 Sanriku Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/20111028031116391-280307.html
_____________________________________________
NHK world

Flood prevention law to be revised

The land and infrastructure ministry has decided to revise the flood prevention law to ensure the safety of waterworks personnel and volunteers.

Friday, October 28, 2011 11:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/28_15.html

Disaster-relief bases at highway service areas

A Japanese expressway operator says it will store emergency supplies at its service areas around Tokyo to provide earthquake evacuees with shelter and rescue workers with gathering points.

Friday, October 28, 2011 11:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/28_16.html

Tohoku recovery bill endorsed

The government will submit a bill to the Diet on Friday to promote recovery in regions hit by the March disaster. The bill includes tax breaks and various measures to ease regulations.

Friday, October 28, 2011 14:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/28_22.html

NHK shares disaster coverage experience

The head of NHK, the Japan Broadcasting Corporation, has told a conference of public broadcasters how it responded to the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Friday, October 28, 2011 15:29 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/28_23.html

Noda urges lawmakers to pass budget bill soon

Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has urged lawmakers to cooperate on passing budget-related bills soon, to accelerate rebuilding of regions hit by the March disaster and tackle the strong yen.

Friday, October 28, 2011 15:46 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/28_24.html
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Yomiuri online

IN THE NEWS / Retired officer takes aim at disasters

KOFU--After reaching the mandatory retirement age in the Maritime Self-Defense Force, Isao Miki started working this month as an official in charge of disaster management at the city government of Minami-Alps, Yamanashi Prefecture--his hometown.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111027005465.htm
__________________________________________
AJW

NPOs get creative in helping disaster victims

A nonprofit organization (NPO) is proving that good benches make good neighbors at a temporary housing facility in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, where evacuees of the Great East Japan Earthquake are adjusting to their new lives.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102415655

Cherry trees to mark tsunami danger zone in Rikuzentakata

Rikuzentakata, Iwate Prefecture--Disaster survivors and volunteers here plan to plant 17,300 cherry trees to mark the farthest points inland where the tsunami reached on March 11.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/quake_tsunami/AJ2011102715927
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Sept. jobless rate drops to 4.1% amid recovery from March quake

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's unemployment rate dropped to 4.1 percent in September from 4.3 percent in August on the back of the country's economic recovery from the March 11 megaquake and tsunami, the government said Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0bu115000c.html

Japan's industrial output falls for 1st time in 6 months

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's industrial production fell a bigger-than-expected 4.0 percent in September from the previous month for the first drop in six months, reflecting the yen's recent steep appreciation and weakening overseas demand, government data showed Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0bu117000c.html

Noda to pledge sales tax hike at G-20 Cannes summit

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda will pledge at the summit of the Group of 20 major economies in early November that Japan will raise its consumption tax rate to 10 percent from the current 5 percent in stages by around 2015, government sources said Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0dm012000c.html

New gov't panel to map out Japan's revitalization plan by year-end

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government's national strategy council kicked off its first meeting Friday and decided to craft a medium- and long-term vision for Japan, tentatively called ''Japan Revitalization Strategy,'' by the end of this year.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0dm065000c.html

Salaries of premier, ministers to be cut to finance reconstruction

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Cabinet of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda decided Friday to cut his salary by 30 percent and that of Cabinet ministers and senior vice ministers by 20 percent starting November to finance reconstruction works in the March disaster-ravaged areas.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0dm066000c.html

Gov't submits 12 tril. yen extra budget to Diet

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government on Friday submitted to the Diet a draft 12.10 trillion yen (some $160 billion) third extra budget for fiscal 2011 that would finance additional work to rebuild northeastern areas of Japan following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/28/20111028p2g00m0dm067000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Formally Decides Not to Follow Agency's Pay Recommendation

Tokyo, Oct. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government at a cabinet meeting Friday formalized its decision not to follow the National Personnel Authority's proposal to cut pay for national civil servants by 0.23 pct on average in fiscal 2011, a rare move reflecting its plan to adopt a wider cut to secure resources for postdisaster reconstruction.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800326

Japan Govt Submits Bill for Securing Reconstruction Funds

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800443

Noda Seeks Cooperation for Early Budget Passage

Tokyo, Oct. 28 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Friday called on the ruling and opposition parties to join hands to enact the government's fiscal 2011 third supplementary budget worth over 12 trillion yen at an early date in a bid to accelerate postdisaster reconstruction.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800459

Japan Govt Adopts Bill to Set Up Special Reconstruction Zones

Tokyo, Oct. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government at a cabinet meeting Friday adopted a bill to set up special zones featuring deregulation and other preferential measures in order to speed up reconstruction after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800507

Japan to Waive Visa Fees for Foreign Travelers to Disaster Areas

Tokyo, Oct. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government decided Friday to waive visa fees for foreigners who visit three disaster-hit northeastern prefectures to help shore up the tattering local tourism industries.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800682

Japan to Cut Prime Minister's Pay by 30 Pct from Nov.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102800725

Japan Govt Debt to Reach 1,024 T. Yen by End-March 2012

Tokyo, Oct. 28 (Jiji Press)--The balance of Japanese central government debt is expected to reach a record 1,024,104.7 billion yen at the end of March 2012, government documents showed on Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011102801000
______________________________________________
Sankei news

launching ceremony
Rikuzentakata city, Iwate pref

preparations for winter
Kamaishi city, Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Japan's national debt to exceed $13.5 trillion

Japan's national debt is likely to top 1,000 trillion yen, or 13.1 trillion dollars, for the first time at the end of the current fiscal year next March.

Saturday, October 29, 2011 09:47 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/29_11.html
___________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Search goes on for Miyagi tsunami victims

SENDAI--An intensive search for people missing since the March 11 tsunami has started in Miyagi Prefecture, and although Japan Coast Guard captain Hirofumi Onodera knows the possibility of finding bodies is fading, he refuses to give up hope.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111028004952.htm

Library for kids to open next to 'cedar of hope'

MORIOKA--A private library is to be opened next month near the giant Japanese cedar in Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture, that was dubbed "the cedar of hope" after it survived the March 11 tsunami.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111028004946.htm

ANALYSIS / Noda's speech focused on short-term

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's policy speech focused on pressing issues, such as the early passage of the fiscal 2011 third supplementary budget and related bills, and measures to combat the yen's appreciation.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111028006011.htm

Noda calls for unity to aid recovery

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Friday called on opposition parties to cooperate on the early passage of the third supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 and a bill designed to raise reconstruction funds via income and corporate tax hikes.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111028005842.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

SOCCER/ J.League banners subject to approval at some venues

There's a worrying trend afoot at Japan's soccer stadiums, with some clubs effectively showing freedom of speech the red card.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/sports/AJ2011102915998

Entrepreneur develops additive to desalinate tsunami-hit farmland

A Kyoto startup has developed a soil additive that it says can revive farmland devastated by salty tsunami water in about four weeks.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102916084
____________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

130 temporary housing complexes lack fire protection water sources

KAMAISHI (Kyodo) -- A Kyodo News survey showed Saturday that at least 130 out of 885 temporary housing complexes in the March disaster-hit prefectures of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima are not equipped with fire hydrants or water tanks within the mandated distance.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2g00m0dm007000c.html

Opposition blasts Noda's policy speech as lacking specific steps

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Opposition parties blasted Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's policy speech Friday for its failure to present concrete measures for the government to tackle various challenges, saying his address was filled with vague commitments.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2g00m0dm012000c.html

ANA posts 12% operating profit fall in fiscal 1st half

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- All Nippon Airways Co. reported Friday a group operating profit fall of 11.8 percent from a year earlier to 50.13 billion yen in the April-September period as a recovery in air traffic demand remained slow and the cost of jet fuel rose.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2g00m0bu044000c.html

Hino Motors group net profit falls 90% in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Hino Motors Ltd. said Friday its group net profit plunged 89.8 percent to 594 million yen for the April to September period due largely to adverse effects of the March earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2g00m0bu045000c.html

40-million-yen donation for quake victims found in city hall toilet

HACHINOHE, Aomori -- An anonymous donor has left a bag containing 40 million yen in an administrative building here, accompanied by a letter that said the money is for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake, city hall officials said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2a00m0na013000c.html

Fisherman catches bag with 11 million yen in cash off Iwate

OFUNATO, Iwate -- A fisherman here has made an unusual catch -- a bag packed with 11 million yen in cash that was probably washed away by the tsunami, city officials said on Oct. 29.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/29/20111029p2a00m0na014000c.html
_______________________________________________
Sankei news

disaster drill
Koganei city, Tokyo

______________________________________________
JMA

15:24 JST 29 Oct 2011 38.2N 142.0E 50 km M4.9 Miyagi-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/20111029152849384-291524.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Loans worth $8.4-bil allowed delayed repayment

Financial institutions allowed deferred repayment and other easing measures for more than 8.4 billion dollars of loans extended to those affected by the March disaster in northeastern Japan.

Sunday, October 30, 2011 14:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/30_14.html
_____________________________________________
Yomiuri online

First tsunami disaster drill held in Tokyo

The Tokyo metropolitan government conducted a comprehensive disaster drill Saturday, its first to envision a tsunami occurring in Tokyo Bay.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111029002182.htm

40 million yen left in toilet as March 11 donation

HACHINOHE, Aomori--An anonymous donor left 40 million yen in cash in a public toilet at the Hachinohe municipal government office in Aomori Prefecture with a note asking that the money be given to four prefectures affected by the March 11 disaster, according to city officials.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111029002178.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

40 million yen for disaster victims found in Aomori restroom

HACHINOHE, Aomori Prefecture--A bag found in a city hall restroom contained 40 million yen ($512,000) in cash and a letter asking municipal officials to use the money to help victims of the March 11 disaster.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ2011102916119
______________________________________________
Sankei news

Hongo area Toni town
Kamaishi city, Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Japanese authorities intervene in money market

.....The Japanese authorities are concerned that a stronger yen will squeeze exporters' profits and slow the recovery of the domestic economy after the March 11th disaster.

Monday, October 31, 2011 11:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/31_19.html

Disaster zone expecting fewer trainee doctors

Hospitals in quake-struck northeastern Japan are seeing a drop in the number of medical school graduates wanting to undergo training at their facilities.

Monday, October 31, 2011 11:25 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/31_17.html

Azumi suggests massive market intervention

......Azumi said the market situation is unreasonable, as parts supply chains have been restored and employees have begun to return to work in areas hit hard by the March 11th disaster in northeastern Japan.

Monday, October 31, 2011 13:20 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/31_22.html

Shirakawa hopes yen rate to stabilize

.....Shirakawa told reporters on Monday that he is very aware of the risks posed by the historic high yen. He mentioned the impact on corporate performance and import, and efforts to rebuild regions hit by the March 11th earthquake.

Monday, October 31, 2011 19:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/31_37.html
_____________________________________________
AJW

Graduate student elected to assembly in quake-hit town

In her new job of pushing policies to revive a town suffering from an aging population and earthquake damage, Haruka Kuwahara will have to take time off to attend classes.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/people/AJ2011103116156

Fire extinguisher in bottle big hit with consumers

In what amounts to a reverse Molotov Cocktail, a firm in Aichi Prefecture has come out with an easy-to-use fire extinguisher that has become a big hit with consumers.

The extinguisher is thrown at a fire to put it out. (Provided by J-Style)

The fire is put out a few seconds later. (Provided by J-Style)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/technology/AJ2011102115437

Oyster harvest begins in tsunami-hit Miyagi Prefecture

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi Prefecture--Oyster harvesting began on Oct. 29 in Miyagi Prefecture from among the few farms that escaped damage from the March 11 tsunami.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011102916112
____________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan steps into market as yen surges to postwar records

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2g00m0bu073000c.html

Mitsubishi Electric sees 2% fall in April-Sept. net profit

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2g00m0bu107000c.html

Miyagi-bred oyster sales begin for 1st time since March quake, tsunami

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Oysters grown on aquafarms off Miyagi Prefecture were traded on Sunday for the first time since the massive March 11 earthquake and tsunami severely damaged Japan's second-largest oyster producing region.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2g00m0dm002000c.html

ANA gives 200 kids from quake-hit areas ride on Boeing 787 Dreamliner

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- All Nippon Airways Co. gave some 200 kids from two of the three prefectures most ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami a free ride aboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Sunday, four days after its commercial flight debut.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2g00m0dm055000c.html

Shizuoka fisherman gives own boat to fisherman in tsunami-hit Miyagi town

SHIMODA, Shizuoka -- A man here says that no one can understand how hard it is for fishermen to be away from the sea but people like him -- fellow fishermen. To help tsunami-stricken Minamisanriku in Miyagi Prefecture, the man has donated his boat to allow a fellow fisherman there to return to sea.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2a00m0na005000c.html

Disaster-area temple offers volunteers place to rest for winter

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- A temple in this tsunami-hit area is offering volunteers a place to rest as approaching winter cold reduces the number of buses offering same-day returns.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/10/31/20111031p2a00m0na015000c.html


_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Taiheiyo Cement to Resume Production in Disaster-Hit Ofunato

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Taiheiyo Cement Corp. <5233> said Monday its plant in the city of Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, one of the regions hit hardest by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, will resume cement production on Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011103100778

Toshiba's Operating Profit Down 23.4 Pct in 1st Half

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Toshiba Corp. <6502> said Monday its group operating profit in April-September dropped 23.4 pct from a year before to 80,247 million yen, affected by the March 11 disaster and the yen's sharp appreciation.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011103100824

(UPDATE) Toshiba's Operating Profit Down 23.4 Pct in 1st Half

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Toshiba Corp. <6502> said Monday its group operating profit in April-September dropped 23.4 pct from a year before to 80,247 million yen, affected by the March 11 disaster and the yen's sharp appreciation.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011103100982

INTERVIEW: U.S. Sociologist Vogel Underscores Japan's Strength

Washington, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Noted U.S. sociologist Ezra Vogel underscored the strength of Japan in a recent telephone interview with Jiji Press.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011103100444

Noda Negative on Major Extension of Quake Bond Redemption Period

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Monday sounded negative on a Liberal Democratic Party proposal to substantially extend the redemption period of planned postdisaster reconstruction government bonds.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011103100620

(Update) MOF Ups Japan's Regional Economic View for 2nd Quarter

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--The Ministry of Finance on Monday revised up its overall assessment of Japan's regional economies in July-September for the second straight quarter.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011103100795

Japan Economy Seen to Have Grown 6.3 Pct in July-Sept.

Tokyo, Oct. 31 (Jiji Press)--Think tanks expect Japan's economy to have grown at an annual rate of 6.3 pct in July-September on the average, the first rise in four quarters, recovering from a slump in the wake of March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011103101045
___________________________________________
Sankei news

Hongo area Toni town
Kamaishi city, Iwate pref
津波避難所 tsunami shelter

temporary shops open
Kamaishi city, Iwate pref

Kesennuma city, Miyagi pref

Maiko and Geiko visit temporary houses

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Govt approves reconstruction agency bill

Japan's Cabinet approved a bill on Tuesday to create a reconstruction agency to speed up the rebuilding of areas hit by the March quake, tsunami and nuclear disaster.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011 11:39 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/01_16.html

New Year's greeting cards go on sale

New Year's greeting cards with lottery prizes for 2012 went on sale on Tuesday at post offices across Japan.

At a ceremony in central Tokyo, Japan Post Service President Shinichi Nabekura said the March 11th disaster reminded people of the importance of human ties.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011 11:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/01_19.html

Govt lowers land assessments for disaster zone

The government has lowered its land price assessments for areas of northeastern Japan affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011 16:37 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/01_27.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Govt hopes intl talks will bring back visitors

The government plans to hold various events demonstrating the nation's recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake in tandem with the 2012 annual meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in Tokyo.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111031004696.htm

Govt intervenes on yen / Dollar-buying prompted by postwar high in Oceania

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111031005174.htm

Newborns bring hope to life / Parents welcome babies as symbols of recovery in difficult year

Of the births that occurred in Japan on Monday, the day the world's population topped 7 billion, many were to parents who have suffered as a result of the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and ensuing nuclear crisis.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111031005277.htm

Ministry to adopt remote control floodgate system / New gates will close Class 1 rivers safely, securely

The infrastructure ministry has decided to introduce a remote control system for all the floodgates on major rivers emptying into the Pacific Ocean, as part of its tsunami safety measures.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111031004581.htm
_____________________________________________
AJW

Dalai Lama delivers sermon at Mount Koyasan

The Dalai Lama gave a sermon at Wakayama Prefecture's Mount Koyasan, one of the most sacred sites in Japanese Buddhism, on Oct 31, during his first visit to the area in 31 years.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/people/AJ2011110116249

Murakami leads artists in auction for quake victims

NEW YORK--Some of the finest artists in the world have pooled their considerable talents along with renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami in a charity auction to benefit victims of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/culture/AJ2011103116222

'Fairy-tale road' planned for stricken towns in Iwate

Researchers of famed writer Kenji Miyazawa have proposed creating the Japanese version of the German Fairy-tale Road in Iwate Prefecture to help areas recover from the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/fun_spots/AJ2011103116219

ANIME NEWS: Nerima animation carnival set for Nov. 19-20

With thoughts on the devastation from the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake, this year's Nerima Anime Carnival 2011 will be conducted under the slogan "Let anime be the power to reconstruct Japan."

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/anime_news/AJ2011110116179

Murofushi thanks Miyagi students for inspiration

Athens Olympic hammer throw gold-medalist Koji Murofushi visited a junior high school in disaster-affected Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, on Oct. 31 to cheer up victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and to thank them for providing inspiration.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/sports/topics/AJ2011110116236
_____________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Soccer: North Korea call up Sendai's Ryang for World Cup qualifier vs Japan

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Vegalta Sendai midfielder Ryang Yong Gi was called up by North Korea on Monday for their upcoming World Cup qualifier at home against Japan.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/sports/news/20111101p2g00m0sp135000c.html

Renesas Electronics logs group net loss of 42 bil. yen for April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Renesas Electronics Corp. on Monday reported a consolidated net loss of 42.01 billion yen for the April-September period as the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disrupted the major semiconductor maker's manufacturing activities for some time.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0bu109000c.html

Fuji Heavy reports 27% fall in group net profit in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., the maker of Subaru brand cars, reported Tuesday a group net profit of 32.75 billion yen for the April-September first half, down 26.5 percent from the year before, citing supply chains disruption after the March 11 earthquake and the profit-eating strong yen for the decline.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0bu112000c.html

Japanese manufacturers see April-September profit halved

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Among 282 major Japanese companies which had released their earnings reports for the April-September term by last Friday, manufacturers logged a 50.3 percent year-on-yen plunge in net profit as the March 11 earthquake and tsunami affected production, SMBC Nikko Securities Inc. said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0bu118000c.html

Oct. auto sales log 1st year-on-year gain in 14 months

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- New vehicle sales, including minivehicles, in the first 28 days of October totaled around 305,000 units, topping the 304,328 units sold in the whole month last year for the first year-on-year rise in 14 months, according to data obtained from an industry body Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0bu122000c.html

Hitachi group net profit plunges 68% in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Hitachi Ltd. said Tuesday its group net profit for the April-September period plunged 67.8 percent from a year earlier to 50.95 billion yen, due mainly to supply chain disruptions caused by the March 11 disaster and a strong yen.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0bu126000c.html

Japan proposes U.N. members seek new accord on disaster reduction

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan proposed Monday to the United Nations that member countries seek a new international accord on disaster reduction as an outcome of a key conference on sustainable development slated for next June in Brazil by sharing lessons learned from Japan's March earthquake-tsunami disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0dm002000c.html

Summer bonuses fall by average 0.8%, 1st decline in 2 years

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Summer bonuses fell an average 0.8 percent from the year before to 364,252 yen, marking the first decline in two years, the government said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0dm082000c.html

Man pleads guilty to pretending to be doctor in disaster-hit area

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- A 42-year-old man pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges of pretending to be a licensed doctor in an area hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0dm084000c.html

Cabinet OKs bill to create reconstruction agency, seeks March launch

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Cabinet on Tuesday approved a bill to create an agency to oversee the reconstruction of areas damaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, with the aim of launching it by the first anniversary of the disaster next year.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0dm087000c.html

Land prices to plunge in disaster-hit northeastern Japan

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government on Tuesday released land price adjustment rates for inheritance and donation tax calculations for northeastern Japan, devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, indicating heavy land price falls in the region.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2g00m0dm088000c.html

Land price cuts hit areas devastated by quake disaster

Land price assessments based on new adjustment rates have dropped as much as 80 percent in some areas affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami -- easing inheritance and donation tax for some residents but leaving those who have invested money into their properties uncertain about the future.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/01/20111101p2a00m0na016000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Summer Bonuses Fall 0.8 Pct

Tokyo, Nov. 1 (Jiji Press)--Summer bonuses paid in Japan this year fell 0.8 pct from the previous year to 364,252 yen on average, the first decline in two years, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110100166

Japan Disaster-Area Land Prices Fall by Maximum 80 Pct

Tokyo, Nov. 1 (Jiji Press)--Land prices in Japanese areas hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami fell by a maximum 80 pct, the National Tax Agency said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110100370

Japan Govt OKs Bill to Set Up Reconstruction Agency

Tokyo, Nov. 1 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government approved at a cabinet meeting Tuesday a bill to govern the envisaged agency to carry out reconstruction projects in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110100463
_____________________________________________
Sankei news

to Hiroshima

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Seasonal "Tori-no-ichi" fair in Tokyo

The annual rooster fair known as "tori-no-ichi" is under way in downtown Tokyo. The event signals the coming of winter.

.....Some of them feature replicas of star players on Japan women's soccer team, which won the world title this year. Others come with messages encouraging reconstruction in the areas hit by the March disaster.

Wednesday, November 02, 2011 15:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/02_26.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Cherry trees to mark tsunami

Local residents in areas hit by the Great East Japan Earthquake have launched projects to plant cherry trees or place stone monuments to mark the reach of the March 11 tsunami.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111101004021.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Manga explores human feelings in aftermath of March 11

ICHINOSEKI, Iwate Prefecture--On March 11, manga creator Aruto Asuka rode out the powerful shaking that rattled her home here in Ichinoseki. She spent the next five days in her blacked-out dwelling with no electricity or telephone, worrying about the fate of a friend in Ofunato on the tsunami-ravaged Sanriku Coast.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011110215232
___________________________________________
Mainichi jp(kyodo, AP)

Casio's group net profit falls 64.5% in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Casio Computer Co. said Tuesday its group net profit in the April-September period fell 64.5 percent from a year earlier to 907 million yen, partly hurt by a decline in demand from corporate clients following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and despite robust retail sales of its brand-name watches overseas.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0bu083000c.html

U.S. new car sales up 7.5% in Oct., Toyota still suffers fall

NEW YORK (Kyodo) -- New car sales in the United States in October increased 7.5 percent from a year earlier, but Toyota Motor Corp.'s sales continued to suffer in the aftermath of the March disaster, according to data released Tuesday by a U.S. research firm.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0bu093000c.html

Oct. auto sales jump 25% on year for 1st rise in 14 months

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0bu094000c.html

Sony headed for fourth straight year in the red

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0bu125000c.html

U.N. body seeks enhanced cooperation with Japan on disaster response

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A U.N. body that coordinates international offers of help after major disasters on Tuesday called for closer cooperation with Japan in responding to future disasters by applying lessons from the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Vietnam leader offers to proactively accept investment from Japan

.....The Vietnamese prime minister also met with Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko on Wednesday and discussed with them his visit the previous day to Miyagi Prefecture's Natori, which was hit by the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami, according to the Imperial Household Agency.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/02/20111102p2g00m0dm123000c.html
_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Cosmo Oil Revises Down Net Profit Target to 13 B. Yen

Tokyo, Nov. 2 (Jiji Press)--Cosmo Oil Co. <5007> said Wednesday it has revised down its group net profit estimate for the year ending in March 2012 to 13 billion yen from the previously projected 28 billion yen.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110200888

4 of 8 Major Japan Electronics Makers Log Net Losses in April-Sept.

Tokyo, Nov. 2 (Jiji Press)--Four of Japan's eight major electronics makers logged group net losses in April-September due to the yen's sharp rise and sluggish television operations coupled with the negative effects of the March 11 disaster.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110201048

Russian Orthodox Bishop Hoping to Visit Miyagi

Moscow, Nov. 1 (Jiji Press)--Patriarch Kirill, primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, said Tuesday that he is hoping to visit Japan next year including Miyagi, one of the three northeastern prefectures hardest hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110200369
____________________________________________
Sankei news

shipment restarts
Kirin beer, Sendai city

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

APEC disaster preparedness

......On November 11th, the region's foreign ministers and others will discuss ways to better prepare for natural disasters in view of the March earthquake and tsunami in Japan and the recent flooding in Thailand.

Thursday, November 03, 2011 12:21 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/03_16.html

Noda in Cannes for G20

.....Noda also said he would explain to the other leaders Japan's currency market intervention to prop up the yen. He said the yen's unreasonable appreciation is adversely affecting Japan's economy at a time when it is trying to rebuild from the March 11th disaster.

Thursday, November 03, 2011 16:25 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/03_21.html
______________________________________________
AJW

disaster drill in Osaka
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-S4jIaVcpHY?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Sony to post 4th straight loss due to ailing TV division

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011110316425

Kirin ships 1st batch of beer brewed in Sendai since March 11

SENDAI--Kirin Brewery Co. on Nov. 2 shipped its first batch of beer brewed in Sendai since its plant there was wrecked by the March 11 tsunami.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011110316483
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Disaster-hit Kirin brewery resumes shipment

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Kirin Brewery Co.'s Sendai brewery in Miyagi Prefecture resumed beer shipment Wednesday for the first time since it was crippled by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2g00m0bu047000c.html

Toray group net profit jumps 61% in April-Sept.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2g00m0bu051000c.html

Japan intervention could face opposition from G-20 members

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2g00m0bu055000c.html

Japan's July-Sept. GDP estimated to have grown annualized 6.2%

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2g00m0bu058000c.html

Special account for reconstruction to be created in FY 2012

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The ruling and main opposition parties agreed Wednesday to create a special account for reconstruction work in fiscal 2012 for rebuilding from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, lawmakers said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2g00m0dm003000c.html

'Tiger Mask' donates schoolbags, stationery sets to city in Gunma

ANNAKA, Gunma -- An anonymous giver going by the name of "Tiger Mask" has donated two new schoolbags and two stationery sets to the Gunma Prefecture city of Annaka, city officials announced on Nov. 2.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/03/20111103p2a00m0na008000c.html
_____________________________________________
Sankei news

disaster drill in Osaka
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nsDqtDDU7C4?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

new cargo sorting area in Ishonomaki port, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Yomiuri online

Nursery schools to e-mail, tweet parents in times of disaster

Municipalities in Tokyo and neighboring prefectures have decided to adopt Internet-based emergency notification systems to alert parents of their children's safety during disasters, based on lessons learned from the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111103004717.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Automakers increase efforts to control minicar market

Competition is intensifying in the growing market for inexpensive minicars in Japan, where consumers continue to watch their budgets following the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear disaster.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011110416590
_____________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Atmospheric waves soon after March quake observed, offering hope for predictions

Atmospheric waves expanding immediately after the Great East Japan Earthquake were observed by researchers, paving the way for predicting tsunami from space.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/04/20111104p2a00m0na011000c.html

Campaign for Miyagi prefectural assembly starts after 7-month delay

SENDAI -- Campaigning for the Miyagi Prefectural Assembly election got under way on Nov. 4 after a delay of about seven months due to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that devastated the prefecture's coastal region.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/04/20111104p2a00m0na015000c.html
_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Oil Distributors Enjoy Higher Sales

Tokyo, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)--Japan's three major oil distributors enjoyed group sales growth in the April-September first half of fiscal 2011, buoyed by soaring crude oil prices.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110400587

Major Japan Broadcasters Suffer Revenue Falls in 1st Half

Tokyo, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)--Four major Japanese commercial television networks suffered year-on-year falls in group revenue in the April-September first half of fiscal 2011, reflecting drops in ad revenue in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110400937

Ajinomoto Expects Record Operating Profit in FY2011

Tokyo, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)--Ajinomoto Co. <2802> said Friday its group operating profit for the current fiscal year is seen reaching a record 71 billion yen, due mainly to reduced business promotion costs in the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110400660

Two Major Beer Makers Incur Sales Drops in Jan.-Sept.

Tokyo, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)--Two of three major Japanese beer makers incurred lower group sales in January-September partly due to supply disruptions caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110400763

Japan to Strive for Consumption Tax Hike: G-20 Action Plan

Cannes, France, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)--Japan will strive to implement a plan to gradually increase the consumption tax rate to 10 pct from the current 5 pct by the mid-2010s, a Group of 20 action plan said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110500028
_____________________________________________
Sankei news

cement plant restarts at Ofunato city, Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Dalai Lama attends memorial for disaster victims

Tibet's exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has attended a memorial service for victims of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan.

Saturday, November 05, 2011 13:45 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/05_23.html

People participate in tsunami prevention drills

People across Japan have participated in disaster prevention drills.

Saturday, November 05, 2011 16:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/05_24.html

Edano supports Japan's participation in TPP talks

.....At a lecture he gave at Waseda University in Tokyo on Saturday, Edano said the decision to join the talks is coming too late, although the March 11th disaster was part of the reason for the delay.

Saturday, November 05, 2011 22:23 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/05_31.html
____________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Study halls opened in honor of 'Monty-sensei'

RIKUZEN-TAKATA, Iwate--Special study halls providing self-study sessions to primary and middle school students have opened in Rikuzen-Takata to honor an American assistant language teacher who was killed by the March 11 tsunami.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111104005277.htm

Mental health specialists to visit disaster-hit areas

The government plans to send mental health welfare professionals, clinical psychotherapists and other specialists to areas stricken by the March 11 disaster to try to assist people who are experiencing mental problems, sources have said.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111104004820.htm

Campaigns begin for delayed elections in Miyagi Prefecture

Candidates on Friday began campaigning for the Miyagi Prefectural Assembly election, which had been postponed because of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111104004946.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Anime portrays heroic story of tsunami-hit railway

In Koji Yoshimoto's new anime, a group of determined railway workers strive to keep alive and rebuild their small local railway after a huge tsunami sweeps away most of its stations and track.

Drawings from the Santetsu anime created based on accounts by a train driver who steered a train when the March 11 Great East Earthquake hit northeast Japan. Passengers on the train in the anime shuddered at the shaking. (Koji Yoshimoto)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/culture/AJ2011110516621

Children in tsunami-hit area observe rite of passage in temporary housing

OFUNATO, Iwate Prefecture--"Shichi-Go-San" is a traditional rite of passage and day of festivities in Japan for girls aged 3 and 7, and boys aged 3 and 5. It is held each November.

Volunteers dress children in festive attire for the "Shichi-Go-San" rite of passage in a meeting hall in the Nagaisawa temporary housing complex in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, on Nov. 4. (Yoshihiro Yasutomi)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011110516656
___________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Tokyo Disneyland operator's group net profit falls 46% in April-Sept.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Disneyland operator Oriental Land Co. said Friday its group net profit in the April to September period fell 46.0 percent from a year earlier to 8.68 billion yen due to the extended closure of its amusement park and other facilities following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/05/20111105p2g00m0bu028000c.html

Japan pledges sales tax rise in G-20 action plan

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/05/20111105p2g00m0dm017000c.html

Iwate gov't website featuring top cartoonist's artwork downed by heavy traffic

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/05/20111105p2a00m0na016000c.html

3-story temporary housing complex opened to disaster refugees in Miyagi town

ONAGAWA, Miyagi -- A three-story temporary housing complex for victims of the March 11 disasters -- the first of its kind in Japan -- was completed here on Nov. 4, paving the way for the closure of the town's disaster shelters next week.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/05/20111105p2a00m0na022000c.html


_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Dalai Lama Offers Memorial Service in Disaster-Hit Japan City

Ishinomaki, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 5 (Jiji Press)--The 14th Dalai Lama offered a memorial service for the victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami at a Buddhist temple in Ishinomaki, a coastal city in Miyagi Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Saturday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110500228
______________________________________________
Sankei news

Dalai Lama visits disaster area

UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site "Hiraizumi" Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Disaster survivors move into 3-story housing

People who lost their homes in the March 11th tsunami have begun moving into 3-story temporary housing in Miyagi Prefecture.

Sunday, November 06, 2011 13:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/06_09.html

Survivors plant cherry trees to mark tsunami line

People in northeastern Japan, including survivors of the March 11th tsunami, have begun planting cherry trees to mark the affected areas to give warnings to future generations.

Sunday, November 06, 2011 15:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/06_11.html
____________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Anti-tsunami drills held in Iwate Pref.

MORIOKA--Tsunami-related antidisaster drills were held in Iwate Prefecture on Saturday, the first such events based on a law enacted in the wake of the March 11 tsunami that severely damaged the prefecture.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111105002580.htm
_______________________________________________
AJW

Dalai Lama shares pain and sorrow of tsunami survivors

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi Prefecture--The Dalai Lama gave a memorial service here Nov. 5 for victims of this community devastated by the March 11 disaster.

The 14th Dalai Lama is welcomed by tsunami survivors at Saikoji temple in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, on Nov. 5. (Masaru Komiyaji)

The Dalai Lama embraces a young boy at Saikoji temple in Ishinomaki on Nov. 5.
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011110616692

Pro photographers help quake victims start over

SOMA, Fukushima Prefecture--Although a little nervous, Ikuko Kohata let a cosmetic professional put some makeup on her and get her ready for her special portrait.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ2011110616735

Novel by Pearl Buck offers inspiration to disaster victims

U.S. novelist Pearl Buck (1892-1973) won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938 for "The Good Earth," which was set in China.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/people/AJ2011101915227

Taiheiyo Cement back in business

OFUNATO, Iwate Prefecture--Industry giant Taiheiyo Cement Corp. has resumed operations at its factory here for the first time since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Taiheiyo Cement Corp.'s Ofunato factory resumes production in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, on Nov. 4, about eight months after the March 11 tsunami disabled the factory. (Ryo Shimura)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011110616687
______________________________________________
Sankei news

Survivors plant cherry trees to mark tsunami line

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

1.2-2.1% GDP growth forecast for July-Sept quarter

Private research firms expect Japan's gross domestic product for the July-to-September period to recover into positive territory for the first time in a year.

Monday, November 07, 2011 05:44 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_02.html

Fish market in tsunami-hit town reopens

A fish market in a northeastern Japanese town that was devastated by the March tsunami has begun trading again.

Monday, November 07, 2011 12:41 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_22.html

Limestone train back in service in Iwate

A railway company in Iwate Prefecture, northern Japan, has resumed operations for the first time since the March 11th tsunami.

Monday, November 07, 2011 13:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_24.html

No-fee visa for foreigners to quake-hit areas

Foreigners bound for Japan will not have to pay fees for obtaining visas if they visit regions hard-hit by Japan's disasters in March.

Monday, November 07, 2011 17:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_30.html

Fish market in tsunami-hit town reopens

A fish market in a northeastern Japanese town that was devastated by the March tsunami has begun trading again.

Monday, November 07, 2011 20:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_h22.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Kobe memorial flame to bring light to Tohoku

RIKUZEN-TAKATA, Iwate--"The Light of Hope" memorial flame was kindled in Kobe five years after the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake struck that city. In December, the flame will also burn in tsunami-ravaged Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture, as a disaster monument to encourage survivors.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111106003295.htm

DPJ eyes passage of 3rd extra budget on Thursday

The Democratic Party of Japan hopes the House of Representatives will pass the third supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 and related bills on Thursday, one day before the eight-month anniversary of the March 11 disaster.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111106003213.htm

Farmland conversion up after disaster

The number of successful applications to convert agricultural land to some other use in coastal areas of Miyagi and Iwate prefectures jumped about 2.5-fold from April through October this year from the corresponding period in 2010, according to government sources.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111106003219.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Luxury goods selling well at department stores

Despite a sluggish economy and the lingering impact of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake, some Japanese consumers are spending like it's going out of fashion.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011110716770
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan executives, unions demand lower auto taxes

TOKYO (AP) -- Surrounded by dozens of cardboard boxes packed with 4 million petition signatures, the presidents of major Japanese automakers demanded Monday the end of what they called exorbitant taxes on cars that threaten to hollow out manufacturing and wipe out jobs.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0bu079000c.html

Key composite economic index down in Sept. on weaker production

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0bu081000c.html

Philanthropist Rockefeller offers condolences to disaster-hit Sendai

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- American philanthropist David Rockefeller Jr. and his wife on Monday visited a coastal area in the city of Sendai, which was devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and offered condolences to those affected by the disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm063000c.html

Citizens launch cherry tree-planting project to remember March tsunami

RIKUZENTAKATA, Japan (Kyodo) -- A citizens' group launched a project Sunday to plant cherry trees in a line connecting the furthest inland points reached by the March 11 tsunami, in an effort to commemorate the disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm064000c.html

12th fish market in Iwate resumes operations after March disaster

MORIOKA, Japan (Kyodo) -- The fish market in Otsuchi reopened Monday amid rejoicing by the local fishing industry, becoming Iwate Prefecture's 12th marketplace to get back on its feet after being devastated by the March earthquake and tsunami, the Iwate prefectural government said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm065000c.html

No. of people seeking extra jobless benefits quadruples in quake-hit areas

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- The number of people applying for extra jobless benefits as of September increased fourfold from a year earlier in three prefectures hit hard by the March earthquake and tsunami, demonstrating the severe employment situation there, government data showed Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm066000c.html

Tobacco smuggling into Japan surges after disaster

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tobacco smuggling into Japan surged in the April-June period as domestic stocks ran short after the March 11 disaster, with around 300,000 illegally imported cigarettes seized by authorities, a roughly 8.7-fold increase from a year earlier, the Finance Ministry said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm067000c.html

Gov't to waive visa fees for tourists to disaster-hit prefectures

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Foreign Ministry said Monday it will waive visa fees for foreign tourists visiting Miyagi, Iwate and Fukushima, for five years from Nov. 15, as part of efforts to support tourism in the prefectures ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm068000c.html

Japan's ruling, opposition lawmakers meet Dalai Lama in Tokyo

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's ruling and opposition lawmakers, including Akihisa Nagashima, special adviser to the premier for foreign and defense matters, met Monday with visiting Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, sources familiar with the encounter said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm115000c.html

Many universities giving credits to students for volunteer work in disaster-hit areas

Some 40 percent of national universities across Japan are giving credits to students for their volunteer work in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, a Mainichi Shimbun survey has found.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2a00m0na013000c.html

Book on uniqueness of Miyagi Prefecture released after delay due to quake

SENDAI -- A book featuring the unique attractions of Miyagi Prefecture has been released after its publication was once canceled due to the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2a00m0na019000c.html
Related links
Miki Press http://www.mikipress.com/

Businessman arrested in disaster donations embezzlement case

OSAKA (Kyodo) -- Osaka police have arrested a 67-year-old businessman on suspicion of embezzling 10.9 million yen in donations collected by the Lions Club volunteer organization to victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, police said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/07/20111107p2g00m0dm120000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Cigarette Smuggling Increasing in Japan after March Disaster

Tokyo, Nov. 7 (Jiji Press)--Supply shortages due to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami led to a surge in the number of smuggled cigarettes in Japan, the Finance Ministry said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700337

Visa Fees to Be Waived for Travelers to Japan Disaster Areas

Tokyo, Nov. 7 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Foreign Ministry said Monday that foreigners traveling to three Tohoku northeastern prefectures hit hardest by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami will be exempted from paying visa issuance fees.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700383

Noda Leaves Room for Extending Quake Bond Redemption Period

Tokyo, Nov. 7 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda left the door open Monday to extending the redemption period for bonds to be issued to secure financial resources for postdisaster reconstruction programs from the currently proposed 15 years.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700507

Japan Govt Auditor Finds 428.3-B.-Yen Wasteful Spending

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700554

Japan to Set Reconstruction Bond Redemption Period at 25 Years

Tokyo, Nov. 7 (Jiji Press)--The ruling Democratic Party of Japan Monday proposed that the redemption period for government bonds to be issued for financing postdisaster reconstruction programs be extended to 25 years from the initially planned 10 years.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700856

40 Pct of Jobless in Northern Japan Lose Jobs due to Disaster

Tokyo, Nov. 7 (Jiji Press)--About 40 pct of unemployed people who lived and worked in the three northeastern Japan prefecture of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima before the March 11 earthquake and tsunami lost their previous jobs as a result of the disaster, a labor union survey showed Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110700876
______________________________________________
Sankei news

3-story temporary housing complex opened to disaster refugees in baseball stadium
Onagawa town, Miyagi pref

fish market reopens at Otsuchi town, iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

NHK wins ABU award for best news coverage

NHK has won an Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union award for its coverage of the earthquake and tsunami on March 11th.

Tuesday, November 08, 2011 07:22 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_04.html

US authorities to monitor tsunami debris

Environmental authorities in the US say they will track and monitor floating debris from Japan's March 11th tsunami to ensure navigational and shoreline safety.

Tuesday, November 08, 2011 12:39 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_15.html

Borrowed locomotive arrives at Sendai railway

A borrowed locomotive has been handed over to a local freight railway in Sendai that was damaged in the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

Tuesday, November 08, 2011 15:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_21.html
______________________________________________
AJW

Taxpayers may face 25-year income tax increase for rebuilding

With all parties in apparent agreement, taxpayers may soon be hit with an income tax increase for 25 years to fund recovery efforts of the areas devastated by the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ2011110816881

Audit finds 430 billion yen in wasteful, misused spending

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ2011110816882

Autumn leaves at Chusonji temple delight visitors

HIRAIZUMI, Iwate Prefecture--Bright and happier days have returned to Chusonji temple, a new UNESCO World Heritage cultural site, in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, as fall leaf colors are at their most dazzling.

Visitors enjoy fall leaf colors at their peak at Chusonji temple in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. (Yoshihiro Yasutomi)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/fun_spots/AJ2011110716798

Handicrafts from Miyagi, Iwate on display at Cannes trade show

Behind the handicrafts created in Miyagi and Iwate prefectures lie stories about life in northeastern Japan. Now, their story is one of survival, not only for the economies of the two prefectures devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, but also for the future of the industry.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011110716802

Tsunami victim found in wrecked car at storage site

The body of a man missing since the March 11 disaster has been found in a crushed car that had been stored at a temporary junkyard since August.

The white station wagon, right, temporarily stored at the site of a housing complex in Iwate Prefecture's Kamaishi. (Masakazu Higashino)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011110816864
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Iwate debris depot fire extinguished after one-month operation

MORIOKA, Japan (Kyodo) -- A fire station in Yamada, Iwate Prefecture, said Monday it had completed extinguishing a fire after around a month that broke out at a depot for debris from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/08/20111108p2g00m0dm011000c.html

428 bil. yen in tax money spent improperly in FY 2010: auditors

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Wasteful use and improper spending of tax money by Japanese government offices and state-funded organizations totaled 428.38 billion yen in 555 cases in fiscal 2010, the second highest level on record, the Board of Audit of Japan said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/08/20111108p2g00m0dm018000c.html

Gov't seeks to double local burden of child stipends to 980 bil. yen

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/08/20111108p2g00m0dm119000c.html

Gov't offices under fire from auditors for massive wasteful and improper spending

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/08/20111108p2a00m0na012000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Toyota Incurs 32.5-B.-Yen Operating Loss in April-Sept.

Tokyo, Nov. 8 (Jiji Press)--Toyota Motor Co. <7203> said Tuesday it suffered a group operating loss of 32,573 million yen for April-September due to production cutbacks following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110800632

(Update) Toyota Incurs 32.5-B.-Yen Operating Loss in April-Sept.

Tokyo, Nov. 8 (Jiji Press)--Toyota Motor Co. <7203> said Tuesday it suffered a group operating loss of 32,573 million yen in April-September due to production cutbacks following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110800685

Japan Long-Term Rates Stable around One Pct

Tokyo, Nov. 8 (Jiji Press)--The yield on the most recently issued 10-year Japanese government bonds, regarded as the nation's benchmark long-term interest rate, has been stable around one pct as JGBs continue to attract safe-haven buying amid the fiscal problems in the United States and Europe.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110800248

Japan Drafts Burden-Sharing Plan for Child Benefits

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110800388

Major Japan Parties Agree to Set Tax Hike Period at 25 Yrs

Tokyo, Nov. 8 (Jiji Press)--Japan's ruling and major opposition parties on Tuesday agreed that the period for the planned individual income tax hike for securing resources to redeem postdisaster reconstruction government bonds will be set at 25 years.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110800465

Legislation to Clarify Timing of Consumption Tax Hike: Noda

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110800527

Japan Govt to Submit Consumption Tax Bill Even Without Opposition Support: Noda

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110801004
______________________________________________
Sankei news

Tsunami victim found in wrecked car at storage site
*left side

preparation for winter
Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

"Thank you" concert for intl help

Japanese children from disaster-hit areas and musicians have staged a concert to express their gratitude for the international support offered to Japan.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011 07:22 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/09_04.html

Japan's current account surplus continue to shrink

Japan's current account surplus in September fell for the 7th month in-a-row. This is mainly due to rising energy imports for thermal power plants, replacing the shortfall in nuclear power since the March disaster.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011 12:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/09_20.html

Business sentiment marks 1st rise in 3 months

Wednesday, November 09, 2011 17:34 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/09_30.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Govt-opposition tie-up may not be durable / Budget bills expected to narrowly pass Diet; consumption tax hike poses greater challenges

Following a series of major concessions made by the Democratic Party of Japan to the two major opposition parties, key legislation to address post-disaster reconstruction is likely to pass the Diet by the end of November, government sources have said.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111108006137.htm

Reconstruction bonds' redemption period to be 25 years

The three main political parties agreed Tuesday to set the redemption period of government bonds issued to finance post-disaster reconstruction at 25 years, 10 years longer than the ruling Democratic Party of Japan had previously proposed.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111108004864.htm
_______________________________________________
AJW

Musician hit hard on March 11 writes song for survivors

KAMAISHI, Iwate Prefecture--From the depths of the tsunami spawned by the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake emerged the lyrics of a song a survivor wrote that touched and encouraged fellow evacuees.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/quake_tsunami/AJ2011110916908

Tohoku students express gratitude through song

Students from the region affected by the March 11 disaster put on a concert Nov. 8 in Tokyo for ambassadors and other dignitaries to Japan to express their appreciation for assistance from their countries.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011110916945
_______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

6 of 8 major Japanese automakers see profits fall on yen's rise

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Six of Japan's eight major automakers posted group net profit declines for the April-September first half due to the yen's appreciation as well as the March 11 disaster, with Mazda Motor Corp. swinging into the red.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/09/20111109p2g00m0bu106000c.html

Quake prompts 46.8% fall in Japan's 1st-half current account surplus

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's current account surplus, the widest gauge of trade, shrank 46.8 percent to 4,519.6 billion yen during the first half of fiscal 2011 from a year earlier, on slower exports following the March earthquake and tsunami, and more imports affected by higher oil prices, the government said Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/09/20111109p2g00m0bu110000c.html

Japan gov't debt could top 1,000 tril. yen following earthquake

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The outstanding debt of the Japanese government could top 1,000 trillion yen ($12.82 trillion) in fiscal 2011 for the first time on record, mainly because of emergency spending on reconstruction after the March earthquake and tsunami, a government estimate showed Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/09/20111109p2g00m0dm005000c.html

Woman finds husband's body in wrecked car 8 months after March disasters

KAMAISHI, Iwate -- A woman found the body of her husband, who had been missing since the earthquake and tsunami disasters, in the wreckage of a car here earlier this month, it has been learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/09/20111109p2a00m0na008000c.html

Family of man gagged by police officer wins 120 million yen in high court appeal

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/09/20111109p2a00m0na009000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Toyota to Review Just-In-Time Strategy

Tokyo, Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--Toyota Motor Corp. <7203> plans a partial review of its renowned just-in-time production system in the face of supply chain disruptions caused by massive flooding in Thailand as well as the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110900672

Sendai Bank Suffers Record Net Loss due to Disaster

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--Sendai Bank said Wednesday that it logged a record group net loss of 9,569 million yen in the April-September fiscal first half due to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011110900947

Japan's Noda Promises Efforts to Avoid Extra Tax Hikes

Tokyo, Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government will make all-out efforts to avoid additional tax increases even if costs for reconstruction of areas ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami turn out to be bigger than expected, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110900417

More than 300 People Still Staying at Shelters 8 Months after Disaster

Sendai/Fukushima, Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--Some eight months after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the hard-hit northeastern prefectures of Miyagi and Fukushima remain unable to completely shut their evacuation centers.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110900849

Japan Lowe House to Pass 3rd Extra Budget Thurs.

Tokyo, Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--Senior officials of ruling and opposition parties agreed at a House of Representative Steering Committee meeting Wednesday to vote on a third fiscal 2011 supplementary budget aimed at financing reconstruction programs at a plenary meeting of the lower house on Thursday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011110901026

8.75 M. Dlrs Raised in Christie's Auction for Japan Disaster Victims

New York, Nov. 9 (Jiji Press)--A charity auction held here Wednesday by Christie's in cooperation with Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami to support victims of the March 11 disaster raised about 8.75 million dollars, or some 680 million yen.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111000241
______________________________________________
Sankei news

disaster drill in Tokushima pref
M8.6 case

police searching
Otsuchi town, Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Lower house passes 3rd supplementary budget

Japan's Lower House has passed this fiscal year's third supplementary budget to promote reconstruction in areas affected by the March 11th disaster and to tackle the strong yen.

Thursday, November 10, 2011 16:23 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/10_28.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Surplus dives 47% in 1st half / Drop marked as exports shrink following March disaster

The nation's current account surplus fell 46.8 percent to 4.52 trillion yen during the first half of fiscal 2011 from a year earlier, chiefly due to a decline in exports following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the Finance Ministry said Wednesday.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111109006242.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Young Miyagi ballplayers get star treatment from Brad Pitt

American actor Brad Pitt no doubt gained a few more fans in Japan this week.

American movie star Brad Pitt poses with boys from disaster-stricken Miyagi Prefecture at a promotional event for the film "Moneyball" in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward on Nov. 9. (Chisato Matsumoto)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011111017057
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

NTT's 1st-half revenues top 5 tril. yen for 1st time in 3 yrs

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. said Wednesday it logged 5.15 trillion yen in group operating revenues in the first half of fiscal 2011, up 3.1 percent over a year earlier and the first rise above 5 trillion yen in three years.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/10/20111110p2g00m0bu101000c.html

Oct. business failures down 14% in Japan, debts plummet 70%

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The number of business failures in Japan in October declined 14.1 percent from a year earlier to 976, slipping below 1,000 for the first time in eight months, due to the government's cash flow support for small businesses, a credit research agency reported Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/10/20111110p2g00m0bu105000c.html

Lower house approves 3rd extra budget for reconstruction work

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's third extra budget for fiscal 2011, which is designed to finance additional work to rebuild the country's northeastern areas in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, cleared the powerful lower house of parliament Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/10/20111110p2g00m0dm069000c.html

Disaster shelters closed in disaster-hit Miyagi town after evacuees find homes

ONAGAWA, Miyagi -- All disaster shelters here were closed on Nov. 9 after evacuees moved into temporary housing and other dwellings, nearly eight months after the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami devastated the town.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/10/20111110p2a00m0na007000c.html
_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan to Compile 4th Extra Budget for FY 2011: Noda

Tokyo, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Thursday showed the government's intention to compile a fourth supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 to cope with the so-called double loan problem plaguing victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111000280

Japan Lower House Passes 12.1-T.-Yen Third Extra Budget

Tokyo, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--Japan's House of Representatives on Thursday passed the government's fiscal 2011 third supplementary budget for postdisaster reconstruction projects and steps to help the nation cope with the yen's sharp appreciation.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111000376

Japan Govt Debt Rises to Record 954 T. Yen

Tokyo, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--The balance of outstanding central Japanese government debt at the end of September stood at a new record high of 954,418.0 billion yen, up 10,608.4 billion yen from the end of June, the Finance Ministry said Thursday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111000821

Japan's 4th Extra Budget Likely Worth Trillions of Yen

Tokyo, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--A fiscal 2011 fourth supplementary budget proposed by Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda is expected to have several trillion yen in spending, informed sources said Thursday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111001027

Over 800 Bodies Yet to Be Identified 8 Months after Japan Disaster

Tokyo, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--More than 800 bodies have yet to be identified among those who died in the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan's northeastern coast eight months ago.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111001051

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

8 months passed since the March disaster

It's been 8 months since the March 11th earthquake and tsunami. But there's still a long way to go before full-fledged reconstruction is possible.

Friday, November 11, 2011 08:21 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_08.html

Tsunami victims remembered in Minamisanriku

Eight months after the March 11th earthquake and tsunami on Friday, the people of Minamisanriku town in Iwate Prefecture are offering prayers for the victims.

Friday, November 11, 2011 12:09 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_15.html

Pianist Tsujii makes Carnegie Hall solo debut

.....Audience members said they were touched by Tsuji's expressive performance, and that they could sense his feelings for Japan as it struggles to recover from the disaster.

Friday, November 11, 2011 17:31 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_21.html

Disaster-hit prefectures promote tourism in Taiwan

Disaster-hit prefectures in northeastern Japan are promoting themselves in Taiwan as safe and ready to welcome back tourists.

Friday, November 11, 2011 18:22 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_25.html
_____________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Ishinomaki album restored / Photo studio owner, students work to save memento of school

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--The owner of a photo studio has joined forces with recent graduates from municipal Kadonowaki Elementary School in Ishinomaki to create a graduation album once thought to be lost as a result of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111110005576.htm

Tax refund aimed at placating weary public

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111110006221.htm

Partial refund of consumption tax eyed for low-income earners

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111110005969.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Spherical-shaped evacuation shelter headed for NY

HIRATSUKA, Kanagawa Prefecture--The "Noah," a spherical-shaped personal evacuation shelter developed here following the March 11 quake and tsunami, is headed for a New York debut before a curious worldwide audience.

Shoji Tanaka, president of Cosmopower Co., poses beside the "Noah," a personal evacuation shelter, in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, on Nov. 4. (Tomoko Adachi)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ2011111117178

Quake zone children enjoy steam excursion

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi Prefecture--Six hundred singing children riding on a steam train brightened the quake-ravaged landscape near this northern city on Nov. 10.

<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oR01QYp7YhI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ2011111117174

BASEBALL/ Ripken trains kids in quake-hit areas

Cal Ripken Jr. says he has gotten a lot out of baseball over his 51 years, and ever since retiring from the game he loves in 2001, he has been trying to give back.

Cal Ripken Jr. conducts a baseball clinic for quake-hit junior high school players on Nov. 10 in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture. (Shingo Kuzutani)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/sports/base_ball/AJ2011111117144

Charity art auction raises $9 million for quake survivors

NEW YORK--A charity auction of contemporary art held Nov. 9 at Christie's New York raised nearly $9 million for survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011111117079
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(kyodo, AP)

Japan's Oct. wholesale prices up 1.7% on year

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's wholesale prices rose 1.7 percent in October from a year earlier for the 13th straight month of increase, although the pace of the rise slowed because of the yen's strength and a recent decline in nonferrous metal prices in the international commodity market, the Bank of Japan said Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/11/20111111p2g00m0bu087000c.html

Miyagi's temporary housing units not ready for winter: survey

A Mainichi Newspapers survey showed that among the temporary housing units in the three disaster hit-prefectures, Miyagi, Fukushima and Iwate, those in Miyagi are the least prepared to welcome the cold winter and still lack much of the necessary heating equipment.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/11/20111111p2a00m0na014000c.html


______________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Firms Post 23.7 Pct Profit Decline in April-Sept.

Tokyo, Nov. 11 (Jiji Press)--The combined group recurring profit of major Japanese nonfinancial companies in April-September fell 23.7 pct from a year earlier, pressured mainly by production adjustments and power shortages in the wake of the March 11 disaster, a Jiji Press survey found Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011111100916

Canada Offers Funds for Reconstruction Project in Japan

Tokyo, Nov. 11 (Jiji Press)--Canadian government bodies and the forestry industry will invest 4.5 million Canadian dollars in a reconstruction support project for areas in northeastern Japan badly affected by the March 11 disaster, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111100601

Makeshift Mini Malls to Aid Post-Tsunami Recovery

Rikuzentakata, Iwate Pref., Nov. 11 (Jiji Press)--Small and family-run stores in tsunami-hit coastal areas in northeastern Japan are trying to revive their damaged communities by establishing makeshift mini shopping malls.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111100348

Japan Parties Agree on Revisions to Reconstruction Finance Bill

Tokyo, Nov. 11 (Jiji Press)--Japan's ruling and major opposition parties signed an agreement Friday to modify legislation aimed at funding reconstruction programs following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111101144
______________________________________________
Sankei news

3/26 6/7 8/26 11/8

Minamisanriku town's disaster preparedness center