Yuusha** (勇者): Hero, brave warrior

 1. Today's Japanese words

**Heroes**

* **Yuusha** (勇者): Hero, brave warrior

* **Eiyuu** (英雄): Hero (more general, can refer to historical figures)

**Stories**

* **Monogatari** (物語): Story, tale

* **Densetsu** (伝説): Legend, myth

**Actors**

* **Haiyuu** (俳優): Actor

* **Joyuu** (女優): Actress

2. Today's topic

Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese baseball superstar playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Here's why he's unique:

* **Two-way player:** Ohtani excels as both a pitcher and a power hitter, a rare feat in modern baseball.

* **Historic achievements:** He's a 2-time AL MVP and the first player to be an All-Star both as a pitcher and a hitter.

* **Global icon:** Incredibly popular in Japan and the US, known for his talent and sportsmanship. 

3- Today’s news

Baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani reveals he is 'now married'

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/shohei-ohtani-married-baseball-dodgers-4162131

Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani revealed on Thursday (Feb 29) that he is now married but kept the identity of his wife a mystery.

Ishiba best LDP lawmaker to be next Japan PM; only 1% pick Kishida: Mainichi poll

https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20240229/p2a/00m/0na/026000c

性別 (seibetsu): gender

 

1. Today's Japanese words

**Gender identity:**

* 性別 (seibetsu): gender

* 男性 (dansei): male

* 女性 (josei): female

* 性同一性障害 (seidouitsuusei shōgai): gender identity disorder

**Gender pronouns:**

* 彼 (kare): he (masculine pronoun)

* 彼女 (kanojo): she (feminine pronoun)

* 彼ら (karera): they (masculine plural)

* 彼女たち (kanojotachi): they (feminine plural)

* あの人 (anohito): that person (gender-neutral)

**Other related words:**

* 男らしい (otokorashii): masculine

* 女らしい (onnaらしい): feminine

* 中性的な (chūseitekina): neutral, androgynous

* 同性愛者 (dōseiaisha): homosexual

* 異性愛者 (iseiaisha): heterosexual

2. Today's topic

Gender parity in Japan is a complex issue with significant gaps in various sectors. Despite ranking highly in education and health, Japan falls short in political representation and economic empowerment for women. Here's a brief overview:

* **Economic Participation:** Women hold only 11.4% of board seats and 9% of management positions, with a significant wage gap compared to men.

* **Political Representation:** Women make up only 10% of the Lower House and 8.3% of the Cabinet, ranking 138th globally in political empowerment.

* **Social Norms:** Traditional gender roles and expectations often limit women's career advancement and participation in public life.

* **Government Initiatives:** The government has implemented policies to promote gender equality, but progress remains slow.

Overall, Japan faces challenges in achieving gender parity, but there are ongoing efforts to address these issues and create a more equitable society.

Japan faces several challenges in achieving gender parity:

* **Entrenched gender norms:** Traditional expectations often confine women to domestic roles, limiting their career aspirations and participation in public life.

* **Unequal workplace opportunities:** Women are underrepresented in leadership positions and face barriers to career advancement, including a lack of mentorship and support systems.

* **Persistent wage gap:** Women in Japan earn significantly less than men, even with similar qualifications and experience.

* **Inadequate childcare options:** The limited availability and high cost of childcare make it difficult for many mothers to stay in the workforce.

* **Underrepresentation in politics:** Women hold few positions of power in government, hindering their ability to advocate for policies that promote gender equality.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that tackles social norms, expands economic opportunities for women, and strengthens government policies that promote gender equality.

3- Today’s news

Uniqlo starts sales of charity T-shirts designed by refugees

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15176493

Women take part in Japan’s 1,250-year-old ‘naked festival’ for first time

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15176151

Japan's government last year said it would push to improve women's participation in society, after an annual report showed the country was struggling to narrow the gender gap. The World Economic Forum report measuring gender parity ranked Japan 125th out of 146 countries in 2023, down from 116th in 2022.

THE LAST KNOCK (最後のノック, SAIGO NO NOKKU)

HANAMAKI HIGASHI HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM

-THE LAST KNOCK (最後のノック, SAIGO NO NOKKU)

HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/55K6XQT62CC?SI=A_F9DVHJZSVA_VKP THE LAST KNOCK (最後のノック, SAIGO NO NOKKU) IS A TRADITIONAL PRE-GAME RITUAL PERFORMED BY THE HANAMAKI HIGASHI HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM IN IWATE PREFECTURE, JAPAN. THE RITUAL INVOLVES THE TEAM'S MANAGER,佐々木洋 (SASAKI HIROSHI), HITTING GROUND BALLS TO THE PLAYERS WHILE THEY FIELD THEM IN THEIR POSITIONS. THE PLAYERS THEN THROW THE BALL BACK TO THE MANAGER, WHO IS POSITIONED AT THE PITCHER'S MOUND. THE LAST KNOCK IS A UNIQUE AND INSPIRING TRADITION THAT HAS BECOME A SYMBOL OF THE HANAMAKI HIGASHI BASEBALL TEAM. IT IS A WAY FOR THE PLAYERS TO COME TOGETHER AND FOCUS ON THE TASK AT HAND, AND IT IS A REMINDER OF THE HARD WORK AND DEDICATION THAT THEY HAVE PUT INTO THEIR SPORT. THE LAST KNOCK IS ALSO A WAY FOR THE PLAYERS TO SHOW THEIR APPRECIATION FOR THEIR MANAGER, WHO HAS BEEN A CONSTANT SOURCE OF SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE THROUGHOUT THEIR TIME ON THE TEAM. THE RITUAL IS A POWERFUL REMINDER OF THE IMPORTANCE OF TEAMWORK, DISCIPLINE, AND RESPECT, AND IT IS A TESTAMENT TO THE STRONG BOND THAT EXISTS BETWEEN THE PLAYERS AND THEIR MANAGER. THE LAST KNOCK HAS BEEN PERFORMED BY THE HANAMAKI HIGASHI BASEBALL TEAM FOR MANY YEARS, AND IT HAS BECOME AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE TEAM'S IDENTITY. THE RITUAL IS A SOURCE OF PRIDE FOR THE PLAYERS, AND IT IS A TRADITION THAT THEY WILL CHERISH FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES. HERE ARE SOME OF THE KEY FEATURES OF THE LAST KNOCK: IT IS PERFORMED BEFORE EVERY GAME, REGARDLESS OF THE OPPONENT OR THE LEVEL OF COMPETITION. THE MANAGER HITS GROUND BALLS TO THE PLAYERS WHILE THEY FIELD THEM IN THEIR POSITIONS. THE PLAYERS THEN THROW THE BALL BACK TO THE MANAGER, WHO IS POSITIONED AT THE PITCHER'S MOUND. THE RITUAL IS A WAY FOR THE PLAYERS TO COME TOGETHER AND FOCUS ON THE TASK AT HAND. IT IS A REMINDER OF THE HARD WORK AND DEDICATION THAT THE PLAYERS HAVE PUT INTO THEIR SPORT. IT IS ALSO A WAY FOR THE PLAYERS TO SHOW THEIR APPRECIATION FOR THEIR MANAGER. THE RITUAL IS A POWERFUL REMINDER OF THE IMPORTANCE OF TEAMWORK, DISCIPLINE, AND RESPECT. IT IS A TESTAMENT TO THE STRONG BOND THAT EXISTS BETWEEN THE PLAYERS AND THEIR MANAGER. THE LAST KNOCK HAS BEEN PERFORMED BY THE HANAMAKI HIGASHI BASEBALL TEAM FOR MANY YEARS, AND IT HAS BECOME AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE TEAM'S IDENTITY. THE RITUAL IS A SOURCE OF PRIDE FOR THE PLAYERS, AND IT IS A TRADITION THAT THEY WILL CHERISH FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES.

The last knock (最後のノック, saigo no nokku) at Hanamaki Higashi High School goes beyond a simple pre-game ritual. It's a layered tradition steeped in emotion, dedication, and respect that has captured the hearts of Japanese baseball fans. Here's a breakdown of its significance:

Structure and Emotion:

• Individualized: Unlike regular drills, the manager, Sasaki Hiroshi, hits ground balls tailored to each player's strengths and weaknesses, showcasing their individual journeys.
• Vocal Expression: Players shout their motivational phrases before catching the ball, echoing their commitment and passion for the game.
• Emotional Climax: The ritual culminates with the manager hitting to players who didn't see regular playing time, acknowledging their contributions and fostering team spirit.

Beyond Technique:

• Dedication and Hard Work: The rigorous fielding demonstrates the players' tireless effort and discipline honed through countless practices.
• Manager-Player Bond: The personalized approach and emotional exchange solidify the bond between Sasaki and his players, fostering trust and respect.
• Teamwork and Unity: The synchronized fielding and collective spirit highlight the importance of working together towards a common goal.

Impact and Legacy:

• Inspiring: The last knock has become a national sensation, motivating young players and reminding them of the sacrifices and dedication required in sports.
• Cultural Symbol: It embodies the values of Japanese baseball culture: respect for hierarchy, emphasis on teamwork, and emotional resilience.
• Enduring Tradition: Passed down through generations of players, the last knock ensures the team's unique identity and spirit continues to thrive.

Additional Details:

• The ritual can be found on YouTube, showcasing the intensity and emotional depth of the experience.
• The last knock often includes a message to the opponent, demonstrating sportsmanship and respect for competition.
• The tradition serves as a rite of passage, marking the end of a player's high school baseball journey and the beginning of a new chapter.

In conclusion, the last knock of Hanamaki Higashi High School is more than just a pre-game routine. It's a powerful symbol of dedication, teamwork, and respect that leaves a lasting impact on players, fans, and the entire Japanese baseball community.

Mas Endang(マスエンダン)

Mas Endang(マスエンダン)

berdurasi sekitar satu jam tersebut berawal dari dua siswi sekolah menengah pertama yang bermain dan berenang di pantai di Pulau Kyuushu tengah terseret dan tenggelam ombak yang ganas. Kemudian, Endang Aripin (21), pemuda Indonesia yang tengah belajar praktek tentang penangkapan ikan laut milik Profektur Hyuga Miyazaki memberanikan menceburkan diri ke tengah laut untuk menolong dua siswi asal Jepang yang terseret ombak ganas.

Tak disangka, Endang tewas tersapu gelombang dan tenggelam pada hari itu juga (12/08/2007). Namun, dua siswi tersebut selamat. Kemudian, regu penyelamat kelautan Jepang berupaya mengangkat tubuh Endang dengan disaksikan puluhan warga Jepang yang menyaksikan di pinggir pantai.

Selain upaya pertolongan dari regu penyelamat, film tersebut memberi sejumlah kesaksian dari orang-orang terdekat Endang. Beberapa komentar tak hanya datang dari keluarganya di desa, namun rekan-rekan warga asli Jepang tempat Endang belajar menuturkan pengalaman manis semasa dia hidup. Dimata pengajar dan rekan-rekannya di Jepang, Endang Aripin kerap disanjung dan dipuji karena pekerjaannya yang disiplin, tidak bosan bekerja keras dan tidak mengenal batasan dalam bergaul.

Selain memutar film, ada pameran sejumlah foto kenangan, surat pribadi dari dua siswi Jepang untuk Endang, kekasihnya dan tulisan-tulisan artikel dari surat kabar Jepang yang memberitakan ‘perjuangan’ Endang

———————————————————-

terkait…

Keluarga Indonesia Pingsan Saksikan Pantai “Maut” Jepang

HYUGA, JEPANG–Tidak kuasa menahan haru yang mendalam, ibu kandung Endang Aripin, Ny. Saeni binti Cala jatuh pingsan setelah sebelumnya menangis histeris menyebut nama putranya yang tewas di pantai kota Hyuga Provinsi Miyazaki, Jepang yang telah merengut nyawa Endang Aripin.

Hal itu terjadi saat keluarga Endang Aripin diberi kesempatan mengunjungi lokasi pantai tempat putra kesayangan mereka tewas di pantai kota Hyuga, Provinsi Miyazaki, Jepang, Jumat petang.

Endang Aripin, adalah pekerja magang asal Indonesia yang tewas demi menyelamatkan dua remaja putri Jepang yang terseret arus laut pada Agustus 2007. Setelah menyelematkan kedua remaja putri itu, Endang justru terseret arus dan akhirnya meninggal. Jasadnya baru ditemukan dua hari kemudian.

Keharuan memang sangat terasa saat keempatnya, Wasji, (ayah Endang Aripin), isterinya, Nurwati dan Heru (keduanya anak) saat menginjakkan kaki mereka di pinggir pantai. Terlebih bagi Saeni dan Nurwati yang kerap menangis bila ditanya soal Endang Aripin.

Setelah siuman, Saeni bersama suami dan kedua anaknya yang ikut ke Jepang lantas bersama-sama memanjatkan doa untuk arwah almarhum dan kemudian melemparkan karangan bunga ke laut sebagai tanda ikhlas melepas kepergian Endang. Wasji (49) dan isterinya sebelumnya memang bersikukuh untuk melihat lokasi pantai yang telah merengut nyawa anaknya. Permintaan itu pun kemudian diluluskan pihak Jepang sehingga bisa menginjakkan kakinya di Miyazaki.

Usai melemparkan karangan bunga ke laut mereka pun merasakan hati mereka lebih lega.

“Sekarang saya lebih tenang dan bisa menerima kenyataan kehilangan anak kesayangan kami,” kata Saeni lirih.

Hal yang sama diulang Wasji saat melakukan jumpa pers. Ia juga tidak lupa mengucapkan terima kasih kepada wartawan Jepang yang telah melakukan peliputan positif atas kematian Endang Aripin. Ucapan terima kasih juga ditujukan kepada warga Miyazaki dan orangtua angkat Endang Aripin yang telah merawat almarhum selama ini.

Namun keluarga Endang sempat menyayangkan ketika diberitahu tidak bisa bertemu dengan dua siswi SMP Jepang yang telah diselamatkan Endang itu. Kedua remaja putri itu dikabarkan masih trauma jika mendengar nama Endang Aripin karena dianggap sebagai penyebab kematian Endang Aripin.

Wasji juga mengatakan terima kasihnya atas penghargaan yang diterima keluarganya bahkan diberikan penghormatan sebagai pahlawan masyarakat Jepang sebagai martir dalam upacara khusus.

Kepergian putra kami, kata petani asal Cirebon itu, ternyata memberikan makna yang baik dan mulia bagi orang Jepang. Kepergian Endang diharapkan bisa lebih mempererat hubungan antara Indonesia dan Jepang.

Wasji yang terus mengenakan jaket warna hitam, terlihat sedih namun berusaha tegar, ketika berpamitan dengan para pejabat pemerintahan lokal, warga Jepang , dan juga keluarga Shimada yang telah menjadi orangtua angkat Endang Aripin sebelum bertolak menuju Tokyo.

Sementara itu, isterinya, Saeni, dan kedua anak mereka Nurwati dan Heru terus menundukkan kepalanya. Saeni bahkan kerap mengusap matanya yang memerah sambil terus menahan haru.

Jatuh pingsan

Sebelumnya, mereka berempat, dengan diantar pihak kepolisian Provinsi Miyazaki, diplomat KBRI Tokyo, serta keluarga angkat Endang Aripin pergi bersama-sama menuju lokasi pantai yang telah merengut nyawa putra kesayangan mereka.

Cuaca kota Hyuga mendung, dingin, dan hujan rintik-rintik, seperti menjadi saksi kepiluan hari keluarga asal Cirebon, Jawa Barat itu saat menjejakkan kakinya di patai kota Hyuga. Sesampainya di pantai, keempatnya berdiri berjejer menatap ke laut lepas. Wajah Wasji pun menegang dengan sorot mata lurus menatap laut, berusaha keras menahan kegalauan hatinya.

Namun sang isteri, Saeni, dan putri sulungnya Nurwati tidak kuasa menahan haru yang sudah menggunung di hati mereka sehingga menangis keras sambil menyebut nama Endang berulang kali. Sementara, sang ibu langsung jatuh pingsan sehingga membuat panik warga Jepang yang sejak pagi menemani mereka.

Beberapa orang segera membopong Saeni ke pinggir jalan untuk dirawat dengan diikuti Nurwati. Sedangkan Wasji dan putra bungsunya, tetap berdiri id pinggir pantai sambil menahan tangis.

Setelah beberapa lama, Saeni yang sudah siuman dengan dipapah Nurwati, kembali mendatangi pantai menemui suaminya. Sambil menggenggam karangan bunga di tangan masing-masing, keempatnya memanjatkan doa untuk arwah Endang. Setelah itu melemparkan karangan bunga tersebut ke laut disaksikan belasan wartawan lokal.

“Pergilah nak, kami rela kini,” ujar Saeni sambil menangis.

Usai acara di pantai, pihak kepolisian yang menjadi pengawal keluarga Wasji, mengantarkan keempatnya berkeliling kota Hyuga, mulai dari kediaman Endang tinggal, tempat almarhum bekerja hingga menemui kelompok nelayan yang sehari-hari menjadi rekan sekerja Endang.

宇宙 (uchuu): universe

1. Today's Japanese words

宇宙 (uchuu): universe
星 (hoshi): star
惑星 (wakusei): planet
衛星 (eisei): satellite (natural)
銀河 (ginga): galaxy
太陽系 (taiyōkei): solar system
天体 (tentai): celestial body
宇宙飛行士 (uchūhikōshi): astronaut
Specifics:

太陽 (taiyou): sun
月 (tsuki): moon
地球 (chikyū): Earth
火星 (kasei): Mars
木星 (mokusei): Jupiter
土星 (dosei): Saturn
彗星 (suisei): comet
小惑星 (shōwakusei): asteroid
流星 (ryūsei): meteor
ブラックホール (burakkuhōru): black hole
Other:

宇宙空間 (uchūkūkan): space (outer)
宇宙開発 (uchūkaihatsu): space development
宇宙旅行 (uchūryokō): space travel
宇宙ステーション (uchūsutēshon): space station
宇宙論 (uchūron): cosmology
Pronunciation tip:

"u" at the beginning of a word is often pronounced like a soft "w" sound.
"o" at the end of a word is often pronounced like a short "u" sound.

2. Today's topic
Japan's relationship with the universe can be explored through several fascinating lenses:

Mythology:

Shinto creation myth: In Shinto, the native religion of Japan, the universe arose from chaos, with gods like Izanagi and Izanami forming the heavens and earth. This myth reflects an ancient reverence for nature and its powerful forces.
Other creation stories: Japanese folklore also contains diverse creation stories, each offering unique perspectives on the universe's origin and humanity's place within it.
Science and Technology:

Space exploration: Japan is a major player in space exploration, with its JAXA agency contributing to missions like Hayabusa and collaborating with international programs. This demonstrates a commitment to understanding the universe and our place within it.
Technological advancements: Japanese technology plays a significant role in various fields related to the universe, including telescopes, satellites, and research on materials for space exploration.
Philosophy and Culture:

Cosmic awareness: The vastness and mystery of the universe have long inspired Japanese philosophy and art. Concepts like "wabi-sabi" (finding beauty in imperfection) and "mu" (emptiness) reflect a deep contemplation of the universe's nature.
Literature and art: Japanese literature and art, from haiku poetry to anime, often feature themes of nature, the cosmos, and humanity's connection to the universe. These works express both awe and contemplation of the vast unknown.
Religion and Spirituality:

Buddhism and other influences: Buddhism, with its emphasis on interconnectedness and impermanence, has deeply influenced Japanese culture. This influence is evident in the concept of "mono no aware" (sensitivity to the ephemerality of things), which resonates with the vastness of the universe.
Spiritual connection to nature: Shinto practices and animistic beliefs emphasize a connection between humans and the natural world, which is seen as an extension of the universe itself. This fosters a sense of respect and responsibility towards the environment.
It's important to note that these are just some aspects of Japan's relationship with the universe, and there's much more to explore. This relationship is constantly evolving, shaped by new discoveries, cultural trends, and individual perspectives.


3- Today’s news
US firm carries out first moon landing by private company
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240223_09/

In Photos: 'Naked Festival' participants in central Japan jostle to touch 'lucky man'
https://mainichi.jp/english/graphs/20240223/hpe/00m/0na/002000g/20240223hpe00m0na008000q

Sakura (桜):** Cherry blossom

 

1. Today's Japanese words

 Here are some basic Japanese vocabulary words about sakura (cherry blossoms) with romaji:

* **Sakura (桜):** Cherry blossom

* **Haru (春):** Spring

* **Hanami (花見):** Cherry blossom viewing

* **Sakura zensen (桜前線):** Cherry blossom front (the line marking where the blossoms are blooming)

* **Mankai (満開):** Full bloom

* **Sakura fubuki (桜吹雪):** Blizzard of falling cherry blossoms

2. Today's topic

Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are Japan's unofficial national flower and hold a deeply significant place in Japanese culture. Their delicate beauty and fleeting nature symbolize impermanence and renewal, reminding people to cherish the present moment.

The arrival of spring is eagerly awaited in Japan, as it marks the start of the sakura season. People gather under the blossoming trees for picnics and celebrations known as hanami, enjoying the ethereal beauty of the pink and white flowers.

There are over 600 varieties of sakura trees in Japan, each with its unique characteristics and blooming period. The most common type is the Somei Yoshino, known for its pure white blossoms that blanket the landscape in a stunning display.

The sakura season is a popular time for tourism in Japan, with visitors flocking from all over the world to witness this magical spectacle. If you're planning a trip to Japan, be sure to check the sakura forecast beforehand to ensure you don't miss this unforgettable experience.

3- Today’s news

Tokyo/Saitama train line to hold cherry blossom viewing tour with meal included

https://japantoday.com/category/features/lifestyle/tokyo-saitama-train-line-to-hold-cherry-blossom-viewing-tour-with-meal-included

Noto Peninsula quake leaves foreign residents feeling isolated

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/3063/

For many of the 17,000 foreign residents in Ishikawa Prefecture, January's Noto Peninsula earthquake has highlighted difficulties that are causing isolation and unease.

Health-健康 (kenkou)

 1. Today's Japanese words

## Basic Japanese Vocabulary about Health-健康 (kenkou) :

**Body Parts:**
* 頭 (atama) - head
* 顔 (kao) - face
* 耳 (Mimi) - ear
* 目 (me) - eye
* 鼻 (hana) - nose
* 口 (kuchi) - mouth
* 歯 (ha) - teeth
* 手 (te) - hand
* 足 (ashi) - foot
* 腹 (hara) - stomach
* 背中 (senaka) - back

**Symptoms:**
* 痛い (itai) - painful
* 熱がある (netsu ga aru) - have a fever
* 咳が出る (seki ga deru) - have a cough
* 腹痛 (fukutsuu) - stomachache
* 頭痛 (zutsuu) - headache
* 気持ち悪い (kimochi warui) - feel nauseous
* 疲れた (tsukaれた) - tired

**General terms:**
* 健康 (kenkou) - health
* 病気 (byouki) - illness
* 病院 (byouin) - hospital
* 医者 (ishi) - doctor
* 薬 (kusuri) - medicine
* 看護師 (kangoshi) - nurse
* 治療 (chiryou) - treatment
* 回復 (kaifuku) - recovery
* 予防 (yobo) - prevention

**Phrases:**
* 大丈夫ですか？ (daijoubu desu ka?) - Are you alright?
* 病院に行った方がいいですよ。 (byouin ni itta hou ga ii desu yo.) - You should go to the hospital.
* 薬を飲みましょう。 (kusuri o nomimashou.) - Let's take some medicine.
* 早くよくなってください。 (hayaku yoku natte kudasai.) - Get well soon.

**Other:**
* 健康診断 (kenkou shindan) - health checkup
* 健康保険 (kenkou hoken) - health insurance
* 運動 (undou) - exercise
* 休養 (kyuuryou) - rest
* 食事 (shokuji) - meal
* 睡眠 (suimin) - sleep

2. Today's topic
## Health in Japan: A Look at a High-Performing System
Japan boasts one of the healthiest populations in the world, with the **highest life expectancy among developed nations**. This can be attributed to a combination of factors, including:

* **Universal healthcare system:** All residents in Japan are required to have health insurance, ensuring everyone has access to quality care. The system emphasizes preventative care and early detection of diseases.
* **Healthy lifestyle:** Traditional Japanese diet is rich in fish, vegetables, and fermented foods, while processed foods and sugary drinks are less common. Additionally, cultural emphasis on physical activity and social harmony contribute to well-being.
* **Strong social support:** Japan has a strong sense of community, with families and neighbors offering support to each other. This social cohesion can have a positive impact on mental and physical health.

Here's a deeper dive into some key aspects of health in Japan:

**Healthcare system:**

* **Universal coverage:** Everyone in Japan has health insurance, either through their employer or a national program. This ensures financial accessibility to healthcare services.
* **Multi-tiered system:** There are public hospitals, private hospitals, and clinics, offering a range of choices for patients.
* **Preventative focus:** Regular checkups and screenings are encouraged, with the aim of catching health problems early on.

**Lifestyle:**

* **Traditional diet:** Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with fish, vegetables, and fermented foods forming the staples. This dietary pattern is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases.
* **Physical activity:** Many Japanese people incorporate physical activity into their daily lives, such as walking, cycling, and traditional martial arts.
* **Strong social bonds:** Family and community play an important role in Japanese culture, providing social support and a sense of belonging, which can positively impact mental health.

**Challenges:**

* **Aging population:** Japan has one of the fastest-aging populations in the world, which puts strain on the healthcare system and increases the need for elder care.
* **Mental health:** While suicide rates have declined in recent years, mental health issues remain a concern, particularly among young people.
* **Work-life balance:** Long working hours and pressure to conform can contribute to stress and burnout.

**Overall, Japan's health system and lifestyle factors contribute to its impressive health outcomes. However, there are challenges to address, such as the aging population and mental health concerns.**

3- Today’s news
Death by ramen? Study links fatal strokes with number of shops
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13055729
The team found that the more ramen eateries there were per capita in a prefecture, the higher the rate of deaths from stroke.
In areas with many ramen shops, residents tend to buy more salt as well.

Study: ‘Shogun pillow syndrome’ heightens the risk of stroke
https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15171640