Latest Japan Headlines — 25/12/2025
Japan News Today — December 25, 2025
Date: December 25, 2025
Location: Japan
Stay updated with the most important news and headlines from Japan today.
1. Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Plant Nears Restart
Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) has applied for the final safety approval to restart Unit 6 of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant . If approved, the unit is expected imported to resume operations around January 20, 2026 , marking the first major restart since the Fukushima disaster. This decision is a significant step in Japan's energy strategy to reduce its dependence on fuel and strengthen domestic electricity supply.
2. Government Bond Issuance and Economic Policy
Japan is planning to issue about 29.6 trillion yen (≈ $189 billion) in government bonds for the fiscal year 2026 , as part of a record-high national budget. This move aims to support social welfare, defense, and economic growth, though concerns about rising debt and bond yields continue among investors.
Additionally, discussions indicate that super-long government bond issuance may be reduced to a 17-year low , reflecting market caution about too much debt expansion.
3. Japan Watchdog Investigates AI Search Services
Japan's Fair Trade Commission has launched an investigation into AI-powered online search services — including major tech companies — to evaluate whether these services could violate antitrust licensing laws by using news articles without proper licensing. The move underscores growing regulatory attention on AI technologies in Japan.
4. Weather Forecast: Rain and Cold Conditions
Meteorologists report that December 25 will bring rainy and cold weather across much of Japan , with some southern regions expecting heavy snow later this week. Travelers should prepare for challenging weather conditions during the Christmas period.
5. National Sports Event Begins
The 2025 All-Japan National Badminton Championships — one of Japan's top domestic athletics competitions — kicked off on December 25 in Tokyo, showcasing top players competing for national titles.
6. Legendary Golfer Jumbo Ozaki Passes Away
Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki, one of Japan's most celebrated golfers with 94 career wins , has died at age 78 after battling cancer. Ozaki was widely regarded as a pioneer of Japanese golf and a beloved sports figure.
7. Culture & Lifestyle: Christmas Traditions in Japan
In Japan, Christmas remains a unique and festive occasion — and one of the most popular traditions includes enjoying KFC meals with family and friends. This quirky custom continues to grow in popularity across the country.
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