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+

Yomiuri online

Forestry firms still reeling from March 11

MORIOKA--The forestry industry and related businesses in the three prefectures hit hardest by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami continue to struggle with the impact of the disaster, as well as the ongoing nuclear crisis.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111111004983.htm

Searchers undeterred by winter cold / Thousands of police continue efforts to return disaster victims' remains to families

Eight months after the Great East Japan Earthquake and as temperatures drop with the onset of winter, police continue to search for the missing, having pledged to return as many people as possible to their families.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111111005681.htm

Over the rainbow


Kindergartners hold up a 111-meter-long rainbow flag made by residents of Minami-Sanrikucho, Miyagi Prefecture, with the support of a citizens group on Friday, the eight-month anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake. The flag, meant as a symbol of hope for people in disaster-hit areas, was made by stitching together about 50 smaller flags on which people from various prefectures had written encouraging messages.
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20111112dy01.htm
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AJW

With added strength, condominium sales rebound in Tokyo

Condominium sales, which plummeted after the Great East Japan Earthquake, have started to recover in the Tokyo metropolitan area as new buildings are better equipped to withstand and function during natural disasters.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011111216929

Collections of literary works on quake to hit U.S., Britain, France

"One Year Later," a collection of literary works by Japanese authors on the Great East Japan Earthquake, will be released by publishing houses in the United States, Britain and Japan in March 2012 to mark the first anniversary of the disaster.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/culture/AJ2011111216697

Book recalls disaster areas before March 11

Memories and images of the picturesque areas in northeastern Japan before they were destroyed in the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami have been preserved in a new book of photographs compiled from a website.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011111217226
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Mainichi jp(kyodo, AP)

Isetan Mitsukoshi boosts April-Sept. profit to 20.58 bil. yen

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. said Friday its group net profit in the April to September period shot up nearly 50-fold to 20.58 billion yen from 413 million yen a year earlier as it booked deferred tax assets resulting from the merger of its two department store chains in April.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/12/20111112p2g00m0bu054000c.html

Volunteer determined to stay in disaster-hit city to keep promise

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- A disaster relief volunteer has already spent some seven months doing aid work here, and plans to remain several more, all to fulfill a promise she made to victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/12/20111112p2a00m0na010000c.html
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Sankei news

steam train in Miyagi pref

Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

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

Support for quake orphans

Tohoku University in quake-stricken northeastern Japan has set up a special task force to help children who lost their parents in the earthquake and tsunami for the next ten years.

Sunday, November 13, 2011 09:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_09.html
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AJW

PHOTO: Temporary eateries open in disaster-hit Kesennuma

KESENNUMA, Miyagi Prefecture--Under the motto "starting from a prefab," operators and city officials have created a village of temporary restaurants in this tsunami-devastated city.

<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/W7MZC6mqZMc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011111317318
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japanese researchers see future of oil in beakers of algae

Could Japan become a major oil-producing nation? That's the dream of researchers at IHI NeoG Algae LLC, which is working on extracting oil not from new holes in the ground, but from algae.

......Meanwhile, algae oil pioneer and University of Tsukuba professor Makoto Watanabe is partnering with the Sendai Municipal Government and Tohoku University to start an experimental fuel production operation at a sewage processing plant in tsunami-hit Sendai. For his experiment, Watanabe has picked the algae "aurantiochytrium," which produce oil by using organic matter in water as nutrition without photosynthesis, providing not just oil but also a way to purify waste water.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20111113p2a00m0na010000c.html
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Sankei news

flooded by land subsidence
Watanoha port, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

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

Japan's GDP posts growth

Japan's economy grew for the first time in exactly a year in the July-September quarter.

Monday, November 14, 2011 10:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111114_15.html

Panel to analyze long-period motion from quakes

A panel for Japan's Meteorological Agency has begun looking into measures against long-period ground motions caused by earthquakes.

Monday, November 14, 2011 15:11 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111114_19.html

Ninja visit to children in tsunami-hit town

Young children in a tsunami-hit town of Miyagi Prefecture have been cheered up by a visit from a group of ninja.

Monday, November 14, 2011 19:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111114_28.html

Noda cabinet support rate falls to 45%

Monday, November 14, 2011 19:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111114_29.html
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AJW

Japan GDP grows for 1st time in 4 quarters

Japan's economy grew in the July-September period for the first time in four quarters, led by a recovery in exports and a rise in personal consumption after the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011111417429

Tohoku brewers start the long road to recovery

In late October, staff at the quake-hit Sekinoichi sake brewery in Ichinoseki, Iwate Prefecture, sat down to discuss a special brew, dubbed Fukkoshu, or "revival sake," to go on sale on March 11, the first anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011111417035

Troubled times for transport in Tohoku

Sendai Port, the tsunami-stricken Tohoku region's gateway to commerce, is still out of action eight months after the March 11 disaster.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ2011111417387

Experts give tips on fleeing with pets during disaster

When the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami struck, many people wouldn't flee without their pets, which they consider part of their family.

How to make a sling using furoshiki. 1) Fold "furoshiki" square cloth diagonally into a triangle and firmly tie the edges into a knot; 2) Hang the ring around your neck; 3) Put your pet in the bag-shaped part and bring the two free points up around the front and back of the same shoulder and tie securely together; 4) Your sling should look like this. (Photos provided by Yoko Abe)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ2011111416127

Japanese film festival in Hollywood pays tribute to Tohoku

LOS ANGELES--Saving the most poignant message for last, the first-ever Japan Film Society (JFS) festival in Hollywood will close its three-day run on Nov. 13 here with a movie centered on recovery work from the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

Takayuki Yamada, right, and director Yoshimasa Ishibashi at the Chinese Theater in Los Angeles on Nov. 11. (Erika Toh)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/movies/AJ2011111417369
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Mainichi jp(kyodo, AP)

Japan economy grows annualized 6% in July-Sept. qtr, but outlook dim

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese economy expanded an annualized real 6.0 percent in the three months through September for its first growth in four quarters, rebounding from a slowdown caused by the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami, government data showed Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/14/20111114p2g00m0bu079000c.html

Retired carpenters put skills to good use in disaster-hit city

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- Retired carpenters in this disaster-stricken city are putting their skills into practice in an attempt to make their lives at temporary housing units a little bit more comfortable.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/14/20111114p2a00m0na007000c.html
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Jiji press

5 Disaster-Hit Regional Banks Perform Poorly in 1st Half

Tokyo, Nov. 14 (Jiji Press)--Five of the eight regional banks in the three northeastern Japan prefectures hit hardest by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami saw their consolidated bottom line deteriorate in the April-September first half of fiscal 2011.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011111400915

Voter Turnout Lowest Ever in Miyagi Pref. Election

Sendai, Nov. 14 (Jiji Press)--Voter turnout in the Miyagi Prefectural assembly election came to an all-time low of 41.69 pct.
Sunday's election was to be held in April but put off in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, which hit hardest three northeastern prefectures including Miyagi.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111400055

Japan's Noda Commits to Consumption Tax Hike Bill

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111400491

 

[makoto]

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

Bhutan's royal couple arrives in Japan

.....The couple married last month. They are Japan's first state guests since the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in eastern Japan.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 10:06 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111115_08.html

5-year-olds in Kesennuma celebrate rite-of-passage

Children in disaster-hit Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, celebrated a traditional rite-of-passage on Tuesday.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 16:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111115_20.html

Bhutan donates butterflies to Japan

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 20:47 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111115_28.html noble butterflies
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Yomiuri online

Words of late colleague inspire Iwate Pref. police

RIKUZEN-TAKATA, Iwate--Police officers in Iwate Prefecture have adopted as an unofficial slogan these words from a fellow officer who was killed in the Great East Japan Earthquake: "Cheer up and go ahead. Even mistakes lead us to go ahead."

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111114004994.htm

Astro Boy and Uran's Encyclopedia of Current Terminology / tsunami warning

Astro Boy: The system for issuing tsunami warnings is going to change, isn't it?

Answer: Yes, it is. In the event of tsunami after an earthquake, the Meteorological Agency has released information about two things at the same time: the estimated tsunami height and when tsunami would reach coastlines. These announcements have been made, in principle, no later than three minutes after an earthquake.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/features/science/T111111004982.htm
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AJW

Sleeping problems spread after March 11 disasters

The shock from the Great East Japan Earthquake has caused sleeping difficulties, but this development is not limited to those living in the hardest-hit prefectures.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ2011110416632 It's me lol

Okayama stir-fried noodle rated the best

HIMEJI, Hyogo Prefecture--Striking a blow for western Japanese cuisine, stir-fried noodles from Okayama Prefecture took the sixth B-1 Gold Grand Prix at a competition for local foods from across the country.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/fun_spots/AJ2011111417439
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Parents of preschoolers lost to tsunami sue town

SENDAI -- The parents of two of three preschoolers who died in the March 11 tsunami here have sued the town that oversaw the preschool for some 88 million yen, claiming the town's inadequate response caused the children's deaths.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/15/20111115p2a00m0na004000c.html

March 11 quake's 'long-period' tremors left cracks in Tokyo skyscrapers

Tokyo's skyscrapers were particularly susceptible to the long-period tremors that shook Japan on March 11, with cracks appearing in many buildings across the capital, a Nov. 14 report to an investigative committee revealed.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/15/20111115p2a00m0na011000c.html

ex: long-period tremors
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ACKMPD6MySs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Jiji press

Tax Hikes to Cut Japan's FY 2012 GDP by 0.07 Pct

Tokyo, Nov. 15 (Jiji Press)--Special tax hikes to cover the cost of reconstruction after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are expected to push down Japan's real gross domestic product by 0.07 pct in fiscal 2012, the Cabinet Office said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111500990

Noda Thanks Bhutan King for Disaster Victim Support

Tokyo, Nov. 15 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Tuesday thanked Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck for his nation's support for Japanese citizens affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111501041
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Sankei news

Bhutan's royal couple arrives

 

[makoto]

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

Bhutan royal couple welcomed at Imperial Palace

....Bhutan held a nationwide ceremony to mourn the victims of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami the day after the disaster. The nation has also donated large sums to the disaster-hit areas.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 12:28 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111116_15.html

US commander says disaster support improved ties

The commander of the US Pacific Fleet says US military support to Japan immediately after the March 11th disaster has helped improve relations.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 12:34 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111116_16.html

Tokyo Station gets more quake-resistant

A four-year project to make a Tokyo train station resistant to powerful earthquakes is to be completed next year.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 18:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111116_24.html

Japan shifting production base to China

China says Japanese firms are rapidly shifting their production bases to China following the March 11th disaster in northeastern Japan.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 20:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111116_30.html

Banquet held for king of Bhutan and his wife


Wednesday, November 16, 2011 21:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111116_34.html
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Yomiuri online

Canada, Australia invite disaster-zone students

The governments of Canada and Australia are inviting applicants from areas struck by the Great East Japan Earthquake to study in their countries--and they will help foot the bill.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111115005469.htm
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AJW

SWIMMING/ Quake survivors re-energize Kitajima

Everyone in the Kanto region and northeastern Japan remembers where they were and what they were doing the moment the Great East Japan Earthquake struck.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/sports/topics/AJ201111160009

Remembering a storyteller without peer

Ei Koishi was born in rural Japan when the Meiji emperor still ruled. She never learned to read or write, but that never mattered too much.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111160049
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Ripken visits Japanese youth in tsunami-hit area

TOKYO (AP) -- Cal Ripken Jr. took a message of hope and perseverance to Japanese students affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/sports/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0sp130000c.html

Quake-relief efforts promote U.S. military's ties with SDF: commander

NEW YORK (Kyodo) -- Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander of the Hawaii-based U.S. Pacific Fleet, said Tuesday the U.S. military's relief operations he led to aid Japanese people following the March earthquake and tsunami disaster helped promote relations with Japan's Self-Defense Forces.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm019000c.html

Singapore-funded support center completed in disaster-hit Miyako

MIYAKO, Japan (Kyodo) -- A ceremony took place in a northeastern Japan town hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami to open a support center built with 70 million yen in contributions from Singapore citizens.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm020000c.html

Over 80% of boats washed away by March tsunami still not recovered

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- More than 80 percent of the boats washed away in the March 11 tsunami are yet to be recovered, the Japan Coast Guard said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm026000c.html

Scientists warn Japan tsunami debris endangering Hawaii

LOS ANGELES (Kyodo) -- Hawaii's environment could be in danger as debris from Japan's earthquake and tsunami in March, including lumber and home appliances adrift in the Pacific, has been approaching, researchers said at a meeting in Honolulu on Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm027000c.html

Bhutan royal couple express condolences for Japan quake victims

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The king and queen of Bhutan, who are visiting Japan as state guests, expressed their condolences for the victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami during a meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and his wife on Tuesday, the Foreign Ministry said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm031000c.html

Bhutan royal couple welcomed by Japan's crown prince

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The king and queen of Bhutan, who are on a visit to Japan that began Tuesday, attended a welcoming ceremony hosted by Crown Prince Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/16/20111116p2g00m0dm088000c.html
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Jiji press

Bhutan King, Queen Welcomed at Japan Imperial Banquet

Tokyo, Nov. 16 (Jiji Press)--Visiting Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck and his wife, Queen Jetsun Pema, were welcomed at a banquet held at the Imperial Palace here on Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111600888
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Sankei news

Bhutan's royal couple

Japanese Empress Michiko, center, walks with Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, and Queen Jetsun Pema after their meeting at the Akasaka guesthouse in Tokyo Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011. Japanese Emperor Akihito has been hospitalized with deteriorating symptoms of bronchitis and he did not attend the welcoming ceremony for Bhutan's royal couple. (AP Photo/ Yoshikazu Tsuno)

wintry scene
Izumi ward, Sendai city

 

[makoto]

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

04:40 JST 17 Nov 2011 39.6N 143.4E 10 km M4.7 Sanriku Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/20111117044433391-170440.html

17:34 JST 17 Nov 2011 38.8N 142.0E 50 km 4.6 Miyagi-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111117173832391-171734.html

 

[makoto]

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

King of Bhutan addresses Japanese Diet

The King of Bhutan has expressed hope that Japan will take a leading role in the global community.

.....The royal couple is to visit disaster-hit Fukushima Prefecture on Friday.

Thursday, November 17, 2011 18:41 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111117_26.html
_______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Relief teachers face harsh realities

Boards of education in prefectures that have been supplying teachers to primary, middle and high schools in Miyagi Prefecture following the March 11 disaster are finely tuning support programs after reports of stress due to working in an unfamiliar environment.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111116006138.htm
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AJW

Granny cheerleaders dance for quake relief

A group of granny cheerleaders will perform a special show in Tokyo's Nerima Ward on Nov. 19 to raise money for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ201111170005

Drinkers downing sake to help hard-hit prefectures

Big-hearted drinkers are doing their part to help recovery efforts from the Great East Japan Earthquake, as the shipment of sake made in the quake and tsunami-stricken three prefectures is growing at an intoxicating rate.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/business/AJ201111170085

Study: Vertical water force from tsunami destroys bridges

Some of the bridges swept away by tsunami during the Great East Japan Earthquake had been pushed up by powerful flows--as opposed to being moved horizontally--before being wholly carried away, a university study found.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/quake_tsunami/AJ201111170075
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Hitachi Zosen, partners unveil remote-controlled breakwater

SHIZUOKA (Kyodo) -- Shipbuilder Hitachi Zosen Corp. and its project partners on Thursday unveiled a remote-controlled breakwater designed to rise from the sea floor to counter high tides or tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/17/20111117p2g00m0bu092000c.html

Bhutanese king seeks stronger ties with Japan, comforts quake victims

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Bhutan wants to further strengthen relations with Japan and supports Tokyo's bid to play a greater role in the U.N. Security Council, visiting King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck said in a speech to the Japanese parliament Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/17/20111117p2g00m0dm123000c.html

Diet's constitution panel holds 1st meet, DPJ says revision low priority

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The ruling Democratic Party of Japan on Thursday told the lower house constitutional panel, at effectively its first meeting since its 2007 launch, that debate on revising the 1946 Constitution has become a low-priority issue in the wake of the March earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/17/20111117p2g00m0dm125000c.html

Anonymous man gives 10 million yen to city hall for Tohoku disaster victims

KANOYA, Kagoshima -- A mystery donor gave a paper bag with 10 million yen and a letter asking that it be given to the Tohoku disaster victims to the local city hall here on Nov. 16.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/17/20111117p2a00m0na026000c.html


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Jiji press

Hitachi Zosen, 2 Others Demonstrate Movable Breakwaters

Shizuoka, Nov. 17 (Jiji Press)--Major shipbuilder Hitachi Zosen Corp. <7004> and two other Japanese companies on Thursday gave a demonstration of movable breakwaters that are being tested at a port in Yaizu, Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011111700817

Noda Cabinet's Approval Rating Falls to 35.5 Pct: Jiji Poll

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111700554

(Update) Noda Cabinet's Approval Rating Falls to 35.5 Pct: Jiji Poll

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111700602

Lower House Constitutional Panel Starts Discussion

Tokyo, Nov. 17 (Jiji Press)--The House of Representatives' Deliberative Council on the Constitution held its first discussion on Thursday since it was set up in August 2007, underscoring the differences between Japan's two main parties.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111700646

Bhutan King Confident of Japan's Recovery from Disaster

Tokyo, Nov. 17 (Jiji Press)--Visiting Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck expressed his confidence Thursday that Japan will recover from the devastation of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111700781

Japan's Diet to Pass 3rd Supplementary Budget on Mon.

Tokyo, Nov. 17 (Jiji Press)--The Diet is set to pass the government's 12.1-trillion-yen third supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 on Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111700865
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Sankei news

Hitachi Zosen, partners unveil remote-controlled breakwater

 

[makoto]

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

Japan sees pickup in Asian visitors

Japan continues to suffer a sharp decline in the number of foreign visitors, but Asian tourists are gradually returning.

Friday, November 18, 2011 19:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111118_38.html
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Yomiuri online

Disaster reform eyed for oil industry

The government, Petroleum Association of Japan and other oil industry-related entities are taking steps to make oil supply chains more disaster-resistant, due to lessons learned from serious fuel shortages in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/business/T111117005442.htm
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

U.N. adopts resolution commending volunteers in disaster-hit areas

NEW YORK (Kyodo) -- A U.N. General Assembly panel on Thursday adopted by consensus a resolution commending volunteer activities in the disaster-hit areas to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/18/20111118p2g00m0dm004000c.html

60% of graduating college students secure jobs

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/18/20111118p2g00m0dm017000c.html

UNHCR hails Japan aid despite disaster, seeks help in crisis response

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Visiting U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres on Thursday expressed appreciation for Japan's continued support for his organization despite the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that devastated eastern and northeastern Japan, and sought Tokyo's help in preventing and responding to future natural disasters that displace people.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/18/20111118p2g00m0dm079000c.html
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Jiji press

Eastern Japan's Workforce Shrinks for 8th Straight Month

Tokyo, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--The number of people in employment in eastern Japan fell for the eighth straight month in September, reflecting the effects of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, government data showed Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111800714

Number of Foreign Visitors to Japan Shows Signs of Recovery

Tokyo, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--The number of foreign visitors to Japan in October was down but showed signs of recovery including a halt of the decline in the number of visitors from China, government data showed Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111800763

Japan Govt, DPJ Eyeing 13-Day Diet Extension

Tokyo, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--Japan's government and ruling party are considering extending the current extraordinary Diet session by 13 days to Dec. 22 as time is running short for discussions on key bills other than the third supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 and related legislation, sources said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111800949
_______________________________________________
Sankei news

Temporary shops open in disaster-hit area
Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

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

Debris in sea from March 11th will be cleared

A huge amount of debris along Japan's eastern coast has been hampering the activity of fishing boats following the March 11th tsunami. The government says it will complete clearing away the debris by March 2014.

Saturday, November 19, 2011 11:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111119_12.html

Food fair opens to support disaster-hit producers

A food fair is currently under way in Tokyo, with farmers and retailers from around the country marketing their products at more than 80 booths.

Saturday, November 19, 2011 22:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111119_23.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Quake blamed for 451 later deaths

In prefectures affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, including Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima, 451 people have been recognized by local municipalities as having died due to physical deterioration triggered by the disaster as of the end of October, it has been learned.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111118006038.htm
_______________________________________________
AJW

Abalone fishermen share boats for this year's harvest

MIYAKO, Iwate Prefecture--In normal years, abalone fishermen in the Tohoku region seek out their own special hot spots and compete to see who comes up with the biggest abalone as well as the most number.

Fishermen sort through abalone harvested on Nov. 18 at Miyako, Iwate Prefecture. (Shingo Kuzutani)

Fishermen search for abalone in a shared boat off the coast of Miyako, Iwate Prefecture, on Nov. 18. (Shingo Kuzutani)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201111190055a
_______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Top 3 nonlife insures hit hard by natural disasters in 1st half

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's top three property and casualty insurance groups on Friday reported profit declines for the first half of financial 2011, due to large payments of insurance claims following successive natural disasters at home and abroad, weighing on their earnings.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/19/20111119p2g00m0bu067000c.html

Aerial view of tsunami zone: cleaner but barren

SENDAI, Japan (AP) -- From 1,000 feet (300 meters) up, the view of the tsunami-battered Japanese seaside communities shows striking progress: much of the rubble, crumpled cars and other debris is gone.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/19/20111119p2g00m0dm017000c.html

Final 3 bodies in Miyagi Pref. temporary burial site exhumed, cremated

KESENNUMA, Miyagi -- The final three bodies in a temporary cemetery here for victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami were exhumed and sent for cremation on Nov. 19.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/19/20111119p2a00m0na009000c.html
_______________________________________________
Jiji press

Delayed by Tsunami, Strawberry Shipments Start in Miyagi

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 19 (Jiji Press)--Shipments of strawberries, a local speciality of Miyagi Prefecture, started on a full scale Saturday, about a month later than usual because of damage from the March 11 tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111900225

Disaster-Hit Miyagi Holds Tourism Promotion Event in U.S.

San Francisco, Nov. 18 (Jiji Press)--Miyagi Prefecture of northeastern Japan held a tourism promotion event in San Francisco on Friday, hoping to bring back tourists to the region that is on its way to recovery from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111900275

Japan's Noda Aims for Conclusion on Tax Hike by Year-End

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111900318
_______________________________________________
Sankei news

Japan sounding sand beach
at Kesennuma city, Miyagi pref

_______________________________________________
JMA

22:06 JST 19 Nov 2011 39.1N 142.2E 40 km M4.3 Iwate-ken Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/20111119221107391-192206.html

 

[makoto]

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

Messages of gratitude videoed in tsunami-hit town

In a tsunami-hit town in northeastern Japan, residents have taken part in a project to thank people around the world for their support following the March 11th disaster.

Sunday, November 20, 2011 06:52 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111120_05.html

Short films on 3/11 disaster screened in Tokyo

Film directors from around the world have produced short clips to respond to the March 11th earthquake and tsunami and give encouragement to survivors.

Sunday, November 20, 2011 23:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111120_19.html
______________________________________________
AJW

Strawberry farmers in disaster-stricken Miyagi Prefecture ship out first fruit of season

SENDAI--There were fears there wouldn't be much in the way of a strawberry harvest this year, at least in the tsunami-stricken Tohoku region.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201111200057a
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Noda seeks Cabinet approval of consumption tax hike plan next year

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/20/20111120p2g00m0dm053000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Consumption in Japan Increasingly Polarized

Tokyo, Nov. 20 (Jiji Press)--Consumer spending in Japan seems to be increasingly polarized between high- and low-end demand on the back of a slow economic recovery after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011111900234
_______________________________________________
Sankei news

Strawberry farmers in disaster-stricken Miyagi Prefecture ship out first fruit of season

______________________________________________
JMA

08:48 JST 20 Nov 2011 38.4N 142.2E 40 km M4.2 Miyagi-ken Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111120085223391-200848.html

 

[makoto]

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

3rd extra budget set to clear the Diet

Japan's Diet is set to pass the current fiscal year's third supplementary budget bill. It will feature measures to help rebuild regions hit by the March disaster.

Monday, November 21, 2011 05:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_05.html

S.Korea to send mission to disaster-hit areas

South Korea says that it will send a mission to areas in northeastern Japan that were hit by the March 11th disaster.

Monday, November 21, 2011 05:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_06.html

Conditions for survivors' public housing eased

Japan's land and infrastructure ministry has decided to ease the tenant conditions for post-disaster public housing to accommodate more survivors of the March earthquake and tsunami.

Monday, November 21, 2011 10:55 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_15.html

"Miracle lone pine" has little chance of survival

A conservation group says the only pine tree in a coastal city of northeastern Japan that survived the March 11th tsunami is dying.

Monday, November 21, 2011 10:55 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_17.html

Japanese pop culture festival in Moscow

Russian fans of Japanese pop culture have gathered in Moscow to enjoy music, films and so-called "cosplay" costume role-playing sessions.

The event, sponsored by the Japanese embassy, is the 3rd to be held in the Russian capital. This year, it was held in appreciation of Russia's assistance to Japan following the March 11th disaster.

Monday, November 21, 2011 12:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_18.html

Japan's Diet passes 3rd extra budget for FY2011

Reconstruction efforts from the March 11th earthquake and tsunami have received another financial boost. Japan's Diet passed the third extra budget for the current fiscal year.

Monday, November 21, 2011 15:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111121_27.html
_______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Railway tracks may become exclusive bus lanes

The East Japan Railway Co. is considering building highways exclusively for buses on out-of-use sections of three railway lines in the Tohoku region where tracks and stations were washed away in the March 11 tsunami, it has been learned.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111120003930.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Japanese pop culture festival in Moscow
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LohYsBbGuXU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Kids from disaster area win special soba-eating prize

MORIOKA, Iwate Prefecture--They may not have had the biggest stomachs, but three children whose elementary school was destroyed in the March 11 tsunami were tops in style at an eating contest here.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111210019
_______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan's Oct. exports down 3.7% from last year, 1st fall in 3 months

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/21/20111121p2g00m0bu106000c.html

Diet OKs 3rd extra budget for full-fledged reconstruction work

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's parliament on Monday passed a third extra budget for fiscal 2011, aimed at funding full-fledged reconstruction work following the March 11 natural disasters and preventing harm to the nation's economy from the yen's appreciation to historic levels.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/21/20111121p2g00m0dm090000c.html

Groups compete to down most noodles in Morioka tradition

MORIOKA -- The 26th national "wanko soba" competition to down as many bowls as possible of the regional noodle dish was held on Nov. 20.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/21/20111121p2a00m0na004000c.html


______________________________________________
Jiji press

4 Shinkin Banks in Disaster Areas to Seek Public Funds

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Four "shinkin" banks in three northeastern Japan prefectures hit hard by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are considering seeking public funds within fiscal 2011, informed sources said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011112100194

(Update) 4 Japan Small Banks in Disaster Areas to Seek Public Funds

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Four shinkin banks operating in the three northeastern Japan prefectures hit hard by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami said Monday they will seek public fund injections by the end of March 2012.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011112100883

Japan Enacts 12.1-T.-Yen 3rd Extra Budget for Reconstruction

Tokyo, Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Diet on Monday enacted the government's 12,102.5-billion-yen fiscal 2011 third supplementary budget chiefly financing reconstruction programs in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112100333

Japan Enacts Double-Loan Relief Bill

Tokyo, Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Japan's House of Councillors on Monday enacted into law a bill on relief measures for small businesses struggling with the so-called double loan problem due to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112100628

Japan to Launch New Expressway Toll-Free Program in Dec.

Tokyo, Nov. 21 (Jiji Press)--Japan's transport ministry said Monday it plans to launch a new expressway toll-free program in the earthquake-hit Tohoku northern Japan region on Dec. 1.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112100716
______________________________________________
JMA

18:48 JST 21 Nov 2011 37.8N 142.2E 30 km M4.4 Miyagi-ken Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111121185344391-211848.html

 

[makoto]

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

Bibles that survived tsunami give new life to publisher

When the March 11 tsunami swept through the office of E-PIX publishing company in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, company president Masaya Kumagai feared everything would be lost.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201111210063

Tohoku stores see green shoots of recovery

SENDAI--The tour groups that used to crowd the Sasakama-kan souvenir store in this quake-hit city are nowhere to be seen, according to manager Yoshihiko Watanabe, but sales are surprisingly healthy in their absence.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ2011110716804

Berlin Philharmonic musicians perform in quake zone

SENDAI--A quintet made up of members of the world-renowned Berlin Philharmonic orchestra performed on Nov. 21 for hundreds of children from areas devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Berlin Philharmonic musicians perform at Tsutsujigaoka Elementary School in Sendai on Nov. 21. (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111220003
_______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Irish singers to hold charity concerts in Tohoku to cheer up kids

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Top Irish singers will hold charity concerts next month in the Tohoku region devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and the ongoing Fukushima nuclear crisis to give encouragement to disaster victims, especially children, Irish Ambassador to Japan John Neary said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/arts/news/20111122p2g00m0et105000c.html

Global economic woes hit Singapore, Japan exports

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/22/20111122p2g00m0bu081000c.html

Japan to offer donations to alma maters of U.S. JET disaster victims

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government-linked Japan Foundation said Monday it will offer a total of $200,000 annually over a five-year period to the alma maters of two American teachers who were killed in the March 11 earthquake and tsunami to promote Japan-U.S. exchanges.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/22/20111122p2g00m0dm011000c.html

Tohoku Univ., IBM Japan to cooperate in quake, tsunami research

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Tohoku University and IBM Japan Ltd. agreed Tuesday to step up their joint research on controlling damage from major earthquakes and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/22/20111122p2g00m0dm052000c.html

Gov't eyeing 4th extra budget for quake-relief work: Azumi

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Finance Minister Jun Azumi on Tuesday referred to the possibility of compiling by the end of December a fourth extra budget for the current fiscal year through next March, which would provide additional financing for relief work following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/22/20111122p2g00m0dm112000c.html

Bereaved father of slain girl finds solace from helping March 11 orphans

HIROSHIMA -- Six years since 7-year-old Airi Kinoshita was murdered in Hiroshima's Aki Ward on her way home from school, her father has begun contributing money toward a scholarship for children orphaned by the March 11 quake and tsunami, he said in an interview with the Mainichi.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/22/20111122p2a00m0na010000c.html
_____________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Not to Extend Jobless Benefits Further for Disaster Victims

Tokyo, Nov. 22 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government will not extend the maximum unemployment benefit period any further in areas hit hard by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, labor minister Yoko Komiyama said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112200617

5.15 M. People in Tokyo Area Unable to Return Home on March 11

Tokyo, Nov. 22 (Jiji Press)--An estimated 5.15 million people in the Tokyo metropolitan area were unable to return home in the immediate aftermath of the March 11 earthquake, the Cabinet Office said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112200933

Land Prices Up in More Locations in Major Japan Cities

Tokyo, Nov. 22 (Jiji Press)--A quarterly government survey revealed Tuesday that land prices rose from three months before in 11 of 150 locations in major Japanese cities as of Oct. 1, up by four from the previous survey.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112200945
_____________________________________________
Sankei news

after repairs
to Tohoku from Tottori

___________________________________________
JMA

11:35 JST 22 Nov 2011 38.4N 142.1E 40 km M4.2 Miyagi-ken Oki


jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111122113918391-221135.html

 

[makoto]

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

Post-disaster preparations discussed in Tokyo

Japanese officials in charge of natural disaster measures have discussed preparations for stranded commuters after major disasters such as earthquakes.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 01:41 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111123_01.html

Chinese blogger invited to promote tours to Japan

A popular blogger from China is visiting a city in central Japan to help promote the area and attract Chinese tourists.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 22:42 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111123_21.html
_______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Battle royal looming over consumption tax hike/ Noda's DPJ faces internal divisions on issue even as opposition parties gird for political war

Opposition parties are working on a strategy to force Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to hold a snap election by attacking one of his key policies--integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, including a consumption tax hike.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111122006090.htm

Uncertainty for next Diet session

The ordinary Diet session to be convened in January is expected to follow an uncertain path, including the possibility of a dissolution of the House of Representatives for a snap general election.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111122005906.htm
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

One-person play by actress brings voices of disaster victims to wider audience

When I saw a one-person play about earthquake and tsunami evacuees by actress "mic" during a charity event this past summer, I felt my spirits lightened.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/news/20111123p2a00m0na001000c.html

U.S. naval vessel makes social call at quake-hit port in Miyagi

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- A vessel of the U.S. Navy, which participated earlier in a rescue mission in areas hit by the March earthquake and tsunami, paid a goodwill visit on Tuesday to Onagawa, Miyagi, one of the prefectures hardest hit by the disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/23/20111123p2g00m0dm006000c.html

Land price falls ease in Oct. as impact of March disaster weakens

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Land prices fell in fewer locations in Japan in October in comparison with three months earlier as the impact of the March 11 disaster on the real estate market has begun to subside, according to a quarterly government survey released Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/23/20111123p2g00m0dm007000c.html

 

[makoto]

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

Autumn fireworks in Nagano

A late-autumn fireworks display lit up the night skies over Nagano city, central Japan.

...Wednesday's display began with the launch of a single firework to pray for quick recovery from the March 11th earthquake and tsunami. It exploded in a magnificent pattern measuring 310 meters across.

Thursday, November 24, 2011 09:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111124_12.html

S.Korean poet encourages Japan disaster survivors

A South Korean poet has written traditional Japanese "tanka" poems to encourage people affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in eastern Japan.

Thursday, November 24, 2011 10:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111124_14.html

Japan to study back-up capital for disasters

Japan will begin studies to put a back-up system in place for its governmental functions in the event that a major disaster strikes Tokyo.

Thursday, November 24, 2011 12:50 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111124_20.html
_______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Miyagi kids visit Operation Tomodachi ship

ONAGAWACHO, Miyagi--About 350 local primary school students on Tuesday toured the USNS Safeguard, a U.S. rescue and salvage ship that had made a port call in the disaster-hit town the previous day.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111123006675.htm

Tokyo govt to urge firms to stock disaster supplies

The Tokyo metropolitan government plans to call on companies in the capital to stockpile water, emergency food and other supplies for their employees in preparation for a major earthquake and other disasters, officials said.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111123006136.htm
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Lower house OKs bill for emergency tax hike for quake reconstruction

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill that would enable the government to sanction an emergency tax hike to secure funds for reconstruction work in the wake of the March earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/24/20111124p2g00m0dm096000c.html

City in Miyagi to offer disaster victims long-term housing units

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- Long-term housing units are being built here for March 11 disaster victims, giving them a place to move into after they leave their short-term temporary houses.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/24/20111124p2a00m0na010000c.html
______________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Lower House OKs Reconstruction Financing Bill

Tokyo, Nov. 24 (Jiji Press)--Japan's House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill designed to secure funds for measures to help rebuild areas ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112400244

 

[makoto]

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

Japanese high school students play at Wembley

The England Football Association on Thursday welcomed to London's Wembley Stadium a group of high school students from areas in northeastern Japan devastated by the March 11th earthquake.

Friday, November 25, 2011 14:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111125_23.html

S.Korea to promote tourism to Japan

South Korea has proposed organizing a series of publicity events to help attract tourists from the country to disaster-hit areas in northeastern Japan.

Friday, November 25, 2011 21:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111125_31.html
______________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Panel: Quakes on scale of March 11 occur more frequently than thought

Major ocean trench earthquakes have occurred off the Pacific coast from the Sanriku to Boso regions once every 600 years, according to a government panel report, meaning the frequency of temblors like the Great East Japan Earthquake is much greater than the previously estimated 1,000 years.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111124006080.htm

5 million stranded in Tokyo area after quake

More than 5 million people are estimated to have been stranded at their companies and elsewhere on March 11 in the Tokyo metropolitan area after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Cabinet Office has discovered.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111124003917.htm
______________________________________________
AJW

Reprinted pictorial magazines show horror of past quakes

The March 11 earthquake and tsunami produced images of sometimes unimaginable devastation, but a rerelease of two pictorial magazines from the prewar era shows that such scenes are by no means new in Japanese history.

The Juni-kai (12 stories), a 52-meter tower built in 1890 in Tokyo's Asakusa Koen park, collapses, killing dozens of people. (Asahi Shimbun Publications Inc.)

Flames spread in a section of Tokyo's Yurakucho district. (Asahi Shimbun Publications Inc.)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/quake_tsunami/AJ201111250079a

PHOTO: 'Tiger mask' comes to rescue of quake victims

SENDAI?A Fukushima-based insulation company is installing special transparent sheets in the windows of temporary housing for quake victims to address problems with condensation and mold inside the units.
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jxFz7S6_uaE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
A volunteer wearing a tiger mask puts up an adiabatic sheet in temporary housing for quake victims in Sendai's Miyagino Ward in Miyagi Prefecture on Nov. 24. (Hiroki Endo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111250042
______________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Oct. consumer prices down 0.1%, 1st fall in 4 months

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/25/20111125p2g00m0bu113000c.html

Quake frequency rises 10-fold or more along 11 faults since March

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The frequency of temblors around 11 active faults in Japan has increased more than 10-fold since the magnitude 9.0 earthquake that struck northeastern Japan on March 11, a study by the University of Tokyo showed Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/25/20111125p2g00m0dm013000c.html

Tokyo to accept tsunami-caused debris from Miyagi town

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Tokyo metropolitan government said Thursday it will begin accepting debris in February from the Miyagi prefectural town of Onagawa, which was devastated by the March tsunami, in the second such intake by the capital of rubble from disaster-affected areas.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/25/20111125p2g00m0dm014000c.html

Japan to compile 4th extra budget for quake-relief work

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda is set to instruct his officials to compile a fourth extra budget for fiscal 2011 totaling around 2 trillion yen ($25.9 billion) to beef up emergency programs in the wake of the March earthquake and tsunami, including those for heavily indebted people, some lawmakers said Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/25/20111125p2g00m0dm016000c.html


______________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan April-Sept. White Goods Shipments Hit 15-Year High

Tokyo, Nov. 25 (Jiji Press)--Shipments of so-called white goods in Japan hit a 15-year high in April-September, thanks to a rise in demand for power-saving products amid electricity shortages in the wake of March 11 earthquake and tsunami, an industry group said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011112500936

Japan Govt Eyes 4th Extra Budget worth 1.5-2 T. Yen

Tokyo, Nov. 25 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government is considering setting the size of a planned fourth supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 at between 1.5 trillion yen and 2 trillion yen, sources have said.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112500103

Odds of Huge Quake in Japan over 30 Years Raised to 30 Pct

Tokyo, Nov. 25 (Jiji Press)--A government panel studying earthquakes said Friday that it now estimates the probability of an earthquake with a magnitude of 8 or bigger hitting off the eastern Japan coast over the next 30 years at 30 pct.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112500939
_____________________________________________
Sankei news

center: dolls of reconstruction

 

[makoto]

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

US/UK craftsmen make furniture for temporary homes

Craftsmen working for a US furniture company visited a town in northeastern Japan to make furniture with local people living in temporary homes following the disaster in March.

Saturday, November 26, 2011 14:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111126_16.html

People in temporary homes enjoy mochi pounding

People living in temporary homes in a town in disaster-hit northeastern Japan got to enjoy a traditional year-end event on Saturday.... making rice cakes.

Saturday, November 26, 2011 22:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111126_17.html
_______________________________________________
AJW

<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wVBqLlcpq3I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Higashi Nippon Broadcasting Co., which is based in Miyagi Prefecture in north of Japan, has produced a documentary on the March 11 earthquake and killer tsunami.
Titled "3.11 Great East Japan Earthquake: Recordings of Violent Shock and Huge Tsunami," the 80-minute DVD contains scenes of the disaster videotaped by the company's journalists in many areas of Miyagi Prefecture.

A poet in a disaster-hit area finds his voice again

MINAMI-SANRIKU, Miyagi Prefecture--Distraught over his repeated episodes of Tourette syndrome and feelings of helplessness after the March 11 disaster, Yohei Suto feared he would never pen another poem again.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111260070a

Horses return to take ambassadors to Imperial Palace

Horse-drawn carriages were used on Nov. 25 for the first time since the Great East Japan Earthquake to take new foreign ambassadors to the Imperial Palace for the Ceremonies of the Presentation of Credentials.

A. Carsten Damsgaard, the new ambassador of Denmark, heads for a ceremony at the Imperial Palace in a horse-drawn coach in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward on Nov. 25. (Hikaru Uchida)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201111260036
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Miyagi schoolchildren complete diorama of pre-disaster hometown

NATORI, Miyagi -- Schoolchildren in Natori, Miyagi Prefecture, completed a diorama of their hometown in the Yuriage district on Nov. 25 as seen prior to its devastation caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/26/20111126p2a00m0na011000c.html

Graduate student rebuilds portable shrine to encourage residents of tsunami-hit town

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- A 24-year-old graduate school student spent four months rebuilding a "mikoshi" portable shrine to encourage local residents of a coastal town devastated by the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and ensuing tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/26/20111126p2a00m0na013000c.html

Police probe fraud on pretext of aid for quake-victims and poverty-hit Africans

Police in Ehime and Gunma prefectures are investigating whether the president of a Tokyo-based used-car sales company and others have solicited about 1.3 billion yen illegally from about 2,500 investors on the pretext of helping victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and poverty-stricken African people, it was learned on Nov. 26.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/26/20111126p2a00m0na015000c.html
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Sankei news

debris and autumnal leaves at Kamaishi city, Iwate pref

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JMA

10:43 JST 26 Nov 2011 38.8N 142.1E 50 km M4.4 Miyagi-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111126104708391-261043.html

 

[makoto]

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

Yomiuri online

Iwate salmon catch drops 40% / Tsunami damage to fishing nets worsens long-term decline

Iwate Prefecture's autumn salmon catch, known as the largest in Honshu, is down about 40 percent from autumn last year, it has been learned.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111126002494.htm

Make way there

A horse-drawn carriage carrying a newly appointed ambassador to Japan heads from Tokyo's Marunouchi district to the Imperial Palace on Friday so the envoy can present his credentials.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20111127dy01.htm
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AJW

Ginza displays illustrations from kids in disaster areas

Parts of Tokyo's Ginza district were lit up Nov. 25 with special illumination symbolizing hope for rebuilding after the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Passers-by view the "Wings of Hope" statues on Nov. 25 in Tokyo's Ginza district. (Eijiro Morii)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/fun_spots/AJ201111270064a
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Jiji press

Newspapers Gain Greater Trust in Disaster Areas: Survey

Tokyo, Nov. 27 (Jiji Press)--More percentage of people in three northeastern Japan prefectures hit hard by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami have greater trust in newspapers after the disaster than in other prefectures, a recent survey found.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112600233
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Sankei news

Ishinomaki port, Miyagi pref

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JMA

03:25 JST 27 Nov 2011 39.1N 142.4E 30 km M4.1 Iwate-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111127033030391-270325.html

 

[makoto]

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

Japan car output up domestically but down overseas

Japan's domestic automobile output increased nearly 20 percent in October from a year earlier. But overseas production fell due to floods in Thailand.

Monday, November 28, 2011 18:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111128_29.html
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Yomiuri online

Water to fight fires lacking for evacuees / Tanks, pumps scarce near housing units

Facilities for storing and pumping water for firefighting are not available at 211 temporary housing complexes in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures, a survey by The Yomiuri Shimbun shows.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111127003857.htm
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AWJ

Grad student publishes comics about quake survivors

When Mihoko Ishizawa read a newspaper story about a dead elderly woman found clutching her grandchild following the March 11 tsunami, the tragic tale moved her to action.

A short comic from the book, "Itsuka Nanohana-batake de--Higashi-Nihon Daishinsai o Wasurenai," inspired by the story of a grandmother who tries to protect her grandchild during the quake. (Provided by Misukoso)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201111280097
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Israeli charity offers PTSD therapy to March quake survivors in Japan

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- An Israeli humanitarian relief group is holding seminars for Japanese mothers, kindergarten teachers and caregivers in areas affected by the March disaster to enable them to better look after children traumatized by the earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/28/20111128p2g00m0dm107000c.html

Tsunami-hit city in Iwate delivers free schoolbags to new elementary students

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- This tsunami-hit city in Iwate Prefecture delivered on Nov. 27 schoolbags to children preparing to enter elementary school next spring for free thanks to the generosity of people from around the country.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/28/20111128p2a00m0na005000c.html

Letters from tsunami-affected students tell of bullying, lingering stress

Children forced by the Great East Japan Earthquake and accompanying disasters to change schools have written into a government-run counseling service telling of bullying and lingering stress from the disasters.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/28/20111128p2a00m0na015000c.html

Nuclear insurance group won't renew Fukushima plant's liability insurance

The Japan Atomic Energy Insurance Pool has decided not to renew the Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant's insurance contract when it expires in January next year, it has been learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/28/20111128p2a00m0na020000c.html
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Jiji press

Fuji Heavy's Domestic Output Up for 1st Time in 13 Months

Tokyo, Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--Japanese automaker Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. <7270> said Monday its domestic output in October increased 19.1 pct from a year before to 45,054 units, up for the first time in 13 months.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011112800381

Noda to Request Tax Hike Timetable by Year-End

Tokyo, Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda will direct officials to map out a timetable of a planned consumption tax hike by the end of this year, informed sources said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112800459

Japan Revises Down Economic Assessments in 5 Regions

Tokyo, Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--The Cabinet Office said Monday it has revised down its economic assessments for five of Japan's 11 regions due to slowing exports reflecting sluggish overseas economies.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112800792

30 Pct of Miyagi Teachers Show Signs of Depression

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., Nov. 28 (Jiji Press)--A teachers' union in Miyagi Prefecture said in a survey report Monday that 30.5 pct of teachers at public elementary and junior high schools in the northeastern Japan prefecture have shown signs of depression after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112800932
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Sankei news

debris and swans at Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

swans arrive in Fuji pond, Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

 

[makoto]

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

OECD forecasts Japan's growth in 2012

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said Monday that Japan's economy will grow by 2 percent next year mainly due to the private-sector spending on reconstruction work following the March 11 disaster.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 01:37 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111129_02.html

Jobless rate worsens in October

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 09:58 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111129_13.html

Imperial couple attends firefighters memorial

The Emperor has attended a memorial service for firefighters who perished in the March disaster in his first official duty since falling ill early this month.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 12:43 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111129_20.html
____________________________________________
AJW

Yakuza end up with 35 million yen in disaster aid

Four yakuza members have been arrested amid revelations that at least 260 gangsters received 35 million yen ($450,000) in government assistance intended for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ201111290024

Recuperating emperor resumes official duties

Emperor Akihito resumed his official duties Nov. 29 after spending 18 days in a Tokyo hospital with bronchial pneumonia and a high fever.

Emperor Akihito descends from a stage with Empress Michiko at a memorial service for firefighters killed in the March 11 disaster in Tokyo on Nov. 29. (Eijiro Morii)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ201111290045
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan moderating post-quake economic recovery amid uncertainty: OECD

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's economy has been recovering from the March earthquake and tsunami but the pace of rebound is moderating with confidence weakened by uncertainty over the global economy as well as by the stronger yen, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2g00m0bu088000c.html

Auto output in Japan rises 19.7% in Oct.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's eight leading automakers produced a total of 858,248 vehicles at domestic plants in October, up 19.7 percent in the first increase in two months, as they stepped up production after disruptions caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, according to reports released by the eight on Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2g00m0bu101000c.html

Japan's household spending down 0.4% in October

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Average spending by Japanese households fell a real 0.4 percent in October from a year earlier to 285,605 yen, marking a year-on-year decline for the eighth straight month, the government said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2g00m0bu104000c.html

Japan's unemployment rate rises to 4.5% in Oct.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2g00m0bu105000c.html

Rebuilding schedules for fishing ports, coastal districts set in disaster recovery plan

Eight fishing ports devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami will be fully rebuilt by the end of fiscal 2015 under a revised government disaster reconstruction schedule set for release on Nov. 29.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2a00m0na013000c.html

Emperor attends firefighter service, 1st official duty since discharge

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Emperor Akihito attended a memorial service in Tokyo on Tuesday for firefighters who have died on duty, including those who perished during missions following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, as his first official duty after being discharged from hospital last Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/29/20111129p2g00m0dm069000c.html
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Jiji press

Japan Household Spending Down 0.4 Pct in Oct.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900131

Japan Oct. Jobless Rate Rises to 4.5 Pct

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900129

Japan Emperor Resumes Official Duties

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Emperor Akihito made his first official appearance Tuesday after he returned from hospital on Thursday, attending a memorial service for firefighters who lost their lives on duty.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900425

Japan Lower House Approves Postdisaster Special Zone Bill

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japan's House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a bill on a new special zone program designed to facilitate postdisaster reconstruction through drastic deregulation and tax breaks.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900151

Japan to Rebuild Key Northeastern Ports in 4 Years

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government aims to complete the reconstruction of tsunami-ravaged eight major northeastern fishing ports by fiscal 2015 that ends in March 2016, according to an update to its infrastructure rebuilding plan.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900469

Reconstruction Lottery to Give Record 500 M. Yen in Prize Money

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--A reconstruction lottery giving chances of winning a record 500 million yen will be sold in Japan on Feb. 14-March 14.
Each lottery ticket will cost 300 yen. The first prize will be 300 million yen and 100 million yen will go to two runners-up. The combined amount will be a record in the country.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900841

Japan Not to Extend Tax Break for Investors: Noda

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said Tuesday that there will be no more extensions of the current tax break for securities investors in Japan after it expires at the end of 2013.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900899

Japan Diet to Enact Reconstruction Financing Bill on Wed.

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--A bill to secure funds for reconstruction projects after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami is set to be enacted on Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900898

Japan's Noda Wants Consumption Tax Hike Timing by Year-End

Tokyo, Nov. 29 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said Tuesday that he wants to clarify within this year the timing and size of the planned consumption tax hike.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900922
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JMA

03:53 JST 29 Nov 2011 38.6N 142.0E 50 km M4.4 Miyagi-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20111129035654391-290353.html

 

[makoto]

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

Diet passes reconstruction financing bill

Japan's Diet has passed a bill to secure funds for reconstruction projects related to the March 11th disaster.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 14:56 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111130_29.html

Noda asks opposition to join tax hike debate

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 21:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20111130_37.html
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Yomiuri online

Port repairs to be finished 'within 4 yrs' / More public housing set for survivors

Major fishing ports damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake will be completely repaired by the end of fiscal 2015 at the latest, a revised road map compiled by the government's reconstruction headquarters said.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111129005972.htm

'Tis the season to be giving

Members of a nonprofit organization in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, sort out Christmas gifts sent from across the nation Monday. About 250 items such as picture books, toy cars and stuffed animals have been donated since the Ishinomaki reconstruction support center began an online present drive a few weeks ago. The NPO is accepting gifts until Dec. 19 and will give them to children at nursery centers hit by the March 11 tsunami.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20111130dy01.htm
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Miyagi Pref. to set up mental care center to support quake victims

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- The Miyagi prefectural government will set up a mental care center Thursday to help victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami suffering from stress-induced mental disorders.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/30/20111130p2g00m0dm010000c.html

Q&A: Why is Japan debating consumption tax hike?

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/30/20111130p2g00m0dm017000c.html

Disaster-hit Kesennuma remains top port in bonito hauls landed

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Kesennuma port in Miyagi Prefecture, hit hard by the March 11 earthquake-tsunami disaster, is expected to rank top among Japan's fishing ports in terms of volume of fresh bonito hauls landed for the 15th year in a row, fishery industry officials said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/30/20111130p2g00m0dm025000c.html

Japan Diet OKs bill for emergency tax hikes for quake reconstruction

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese Diet approved Wednesday a bill that would enable the government to raise income tax for up to 25 years to secure funds for reconstruction work following the March earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/11/30/20111130p2g00m0dm081000c.html
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Jiji press

Toyota Not to Retreat from Tohoku or Thailand: Toyoda

Tokyo, Nov. 30 (Jiji Press)--Toyota Motor Corp. <7203> will not retreat from the Tohoku northeastern Japan region or Thailand despite the massive disasters that hit both places, President Akio Toyoda said Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2011113000536

Bicycle Insurance Catching On in Japan

Tokyo, Nov. 30 (Jiji Press)--Insurance companies in Japan are launching bicycle insurance products one after another as more and more commuters take to their bikes in the wake of the March 11 disaster.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011112900332

Japan Monthly Wages Rise 1st Time in 5 Months

Tokyo, Nov. 30 (Jiji Press)--Japanese worker's monthly salaries rose for the first time in five months in October, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said in a preliminary report Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011113000296

Japan Enacts Bills to Fund Postdisaster Reconstruction

Tokyo, Nov. 30 (Jiji Press)--Japan's House of Councillors on Wednesday passed into law bills to finance reconstruction programs following the March 11 disaster, including legislation on special tax hikes.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011113000198
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JMA

21:55 JST 30 Nov 2011 38.4N 142.0E 60 km M4.0 Miyagi-ken Oki



jma http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/20111130215826391-302155.html