A skilled calligrapher creatively blends sake with ink as he meticulously inscribes the names of Kabuki performers onto a wooden signboard in Kyoto on November 8, 2024. This artwork, crafted for the year-end performance at the renowned Minamiza Theater, showcases the traditional “maneki-gaki” calligraphy style, symbolizing a heartfelt wish for a full house attendance at the event. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo
The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.
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Japan gov’t to support companies boosting geothermal power plants
TOKYO – The Japanese government is set to implement a new support initiative for private companies aiming to accelerate the development of geothermal power plants. By harnessing the country’s geothermal resources, which rank as the third largest globally, the government hopes to capitalize on this sustainable energy source. According to sources close to the discussions, the initiative’s goal is to commercialize geothermal power by 2030, and a public-private sector committee will be formed to address key challenges, including the integration of next-generation geothermal technology and strategies to expedite the development process.
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U.S., Chinese military officers discuss operational safety
WASHINGTON – In a series of three-day talks, military officers from the United States and China convened this week to discuss critical measures aimed at minimizing the potential for miscalculations and accidents in military operations. The discussions, which occurred in the port city of Qingdao in eastern China starting Wednesday, were conducted just before a likely farewell summit involving U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, bringing heightened significance to the dialogue between the two nations.
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Honda to end production of “Super Cub 50” motorcycle in May 2025
TOKYO – In anticipation of the forthcoming stricter vehicle emissions standards set to be implemented in Japan later in 2025, Honda Motor Co. has announced its decision to cease production of the iconic “Super Cub 50” motorcycle by May 2025. To commemorate the end of this legendary model, Honda will launch a special “Final Edition” of the 50 cc engine motorcycle on December 12, retailing at approximately 297,000 yen ($1,950). Pre-orders for the limited run will be accepted from November 8 to November 24, with an initial offering of 2,000 units, though the company may consider extending the ordering period if demand exceeds expectations.
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Ishiba eyes utility bill subsidies, cash handouts as fresh stimulus
TOKYO – Following a recent electoral setback, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is working on a new stimulus package aimed at revitalizing Japan’s economy. The proposed plan is expected to encompass subsidies for utility expenses and direct cash handouts to support low-income households. On the same day, the coalition led by Ishiba’s Liberal Democratic Party entered policy discussions with the Democratic Party for the People, raising hopes that he may integrate perspectives from the opposition party to garner support for his coalition in the House of Representatives, where they recently lost their majority.
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Ex-Japan fishing boat captain exposed to 1954 U.S. nuke test dies
NAGOYA – Kyukichi Tsutsui, a former captain of a Japanese tuna fishing boat who was exposed to radioactive fallout from a 1954 U.S. hydrogen bomb test conducted in the Pacific Ocean, has passed away due to natural causes earlier this year, as confirmed by his family. He was 92 years old at the time of his death, leaving behind a legacy tied to one of the significant events in post-war Japanese history.
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Japanese comedian drops suit vs. publisher over sex scandal report
TOKYO – Renowned Japanese comedian and television personality Hitoshi Matsumoto made headlines when he decided to withdraw a hefty 550 million yen ($3.6 million) defamation lawsuit against publisher Bungei Shunju Ltd. on Friday. The lawsuit stemmed from allegations that he had coerced women into sexual activities, as reported in the media. In a statement released through his lawyer, Matsumoto admitted to having attended gatherings where women were present and expressed regret, stating, “I would like to frankly apologize if any of the women who attended were offended or hurt.”
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Sony logs record sales for April-Sept. on strong game, chip demand
TOKYO – Sony Group Corp. reported an impressive surge in sales, reaching a record high for the six-month period ending in September, bolstered by strong demand for games and semiconductor products. The company announced a net profit increase of 36.5 percent, climbing to 570.13 billion yen ($3.7 billion) on total sales of 5.92 trillion yen, marking a notable uptick of 2.2 percent. Additionally, the weaker-than-expected performance of the yen contributed positively to the company’s earnings, with operating profit soaring by 42.3 percent, hitting 734.18 billion yen.
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Figure skating: Japan’s Kagiyama, Sakamoto lead NHK Trophy
TOKYO – In a thrilling start to the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating’s NHK Trophy, Japanese skaters Kaori Sakamoto and Yuma Kagiyama emerged as early leaders following their impressive performances in the women’s and men’s short programs, respectively. Sakamoto achieved the highest score of the season for a women’s short program, amassing an impressive 78.93 points at Yoyogi National Stadium, as the fourth event in the six-stop Grand Prix series gets underway. Notably, all top three finishers among both the men and women hailed from Japan, showcasing the nation’s dominance in the sport.
Video: Crab landed for the first time at Wajima port since New Year’s Day earthquake
**Interview with a Skilled Calligrapher on Kabuki Artistry and Tradition**
**Editor:** Today, we have a special guest with us, a skilled calligrapher who recently crafted a beautiful wooden signboard featuring the names of Kabuki performers, blending sake with ink. Thank you for joining us!
**Calligrapher:** Thank you for having me! It’s wonderful to be here.
**Editor:** Your recent artwork was created for the year-end performance at the Minamiza Theater. Can you tell us about the significance of this event?
**Calligrapher:** Absolutely! The year-end performance is a major highlight in the Kabuki calendar. It represents not just entertainment, but a celebration of tradition. My artwork, using the traditional “maneki-gaki” calligraphy style, symbolizes a heartfelt wish for a full house. It’s an expression of hope and appreciation for the art form and its audience.
**Editor:** Blending sake with ink is quite unique! What inspired you to use this combination in your calligraphy?
**Calligrapher:** Sake is an integral part of Japanese culture. By using it as part of my ink, I wanted to infuse my work with a sense of authenticity and connection to traditional Japanese artistry. It’s a way to honor the performers and the heritage of Kabuki. Each stroke I make is not just about the words, but about the spirit of the performance itself.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! For those who might not be familiar, could you explain a little about what Kabuki theatre is known for?
**Calligrapher:** Certainly! Kabuki is known for its highly stylized performances, elaborate costumes, and the unique kumadori makeup that enhances the characters’ emotions and personalities. It’s a rich form of storytelling that combines music, drama, and visual art, making it a vibrant part of Japanese culture.
**Editor:** With the end of the year approaching, what message do you hope to convey through your artwork to the audience attending the Kabuki performance?
**Calligrapher:** I hope my work inspires excitement and anticipation. More than just a signboard, it carries the spirit of community, joy, and shared experience in the theatre. I want spectators to feel connected—not just to the performers, but to the entire history and tradition of Kabuki.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights and the story behind your art! It’s projects like yours that help keep the tradition of Kabuki alive and thriving.
**Calligrapher:** Thank you for having me! I hope everyone continues to support and celebrate this incredible cultural treasure.
**Editor:** It’s been a pleasure. We look forward to seeing your work and the performances at the Minamiza Theater!
