Japan Reflects on Challenges and Traditions as New Year Begins
As the New Year dawns, Japan is witnessing a blend of tradition and resilience amid various challenges. On December 31, 2024, in the northeastern prefecture of Akita, men donned the traditional attire of Namahage, a deity figure, to visit homes in a cultural ceremony aimed at ushering in good fortune for the coming year. This folk ritual, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2018, highlights the importance of cultural practices in Japanese society.
On January 1, 2025, Japan marked a solemn occasion, observing the one-year anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula. The earthquake, which resulted in the loss of at least 500 lives, continues to impact thousands, with approximately 21,000 residents from Ishikawa Prefecture still in temporary housing as reconstruction efforts lag. The challenges of rebuilding infrastructure and clearing debris from collapsed homes remain significant as the affected communities strive for recovery.
In his New Year address, Emperor Naruhito emphasized the necessity of unity among the Japanese people in overcoming ongoing adversities, including natural disasters and economic pressures. The Emperor expressed particular concern for those still recovering from the Noto earthquake, as well as the effects of recent typhoons and heavy rains that have hit various regions. He remarked on the inspiring spirit of solidarity among citizens who have extended help to those in need.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his inaugural New Year message since taking office in October, committed to collaborating with opposition parties to address pressing issues such as national security, economic stability, and demographic challenges. He underscored the importance of a united front in the face of a complex international landscape, referencing ongoing global concerns such as military tensions involving Russia and North Korea.
In business news, Nippon Steel Corp. has made a commitment to maintain production levels at United States Steel Corp. for a decade, as part of its proposal to the Biden administration regarding the acquisition of the struggling company. This assurance comes after a lack of consensus among U.S. federal agencies on the $14.1 billion deal, with President Biden set to make the final decision.
Amidst these developments, a noticeable shift in Japanese culture is emerging, particularly regarding the tradition of sending New Year's greeting cards. Rising inflation has prompted many individuals and businesses to reconsider this practice, with a growing number opting for digital alternatives to save costs during this busy time of year.
In a lighter scientific note, a recent study from Kyoto University and Akita Prefectural University has revealed that chimpanzees perform better on complex tasks when they are being observed by familiar individuals. This research, published in the scientific journal iScience, also indicated that their performance on simpler tasks may decline under observation, pointing to interesting dynamics in animal behavior.
