September 2007

Asian Gateway Initiative

ASIAN GATEWAY INITIATIVE

Japan has announced its Asian Gateway Initiative, a bid to help bridge Asia and the rest of the world. In this feature we explore how this ambitious plan aims to improve the flow of people, goods, money, culture and information between Japan and the rest of Asia.

BUILDING BRANDS

Japanese brands are making waves around the world from tableware to brushes with the help of the Japan Brand Promotion Program.

AROUND ASIA

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited Indonesia, India and Malaysia from August 19 to 25. Accompanied by a business delegation, Abe met with his counterparts in each country.

APEC SUMMIT

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe traveled to Australia on September 8 and 9 to attend the 15 th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaderfs Meeting in Sydney, Australia.

ISHIKAWA

Visitors need look no further than Ishikawa Prefecture, its stunning Noto Peninsula, historical architecture, lacquer ware and hot springs, for some of Japanfs best nature, tradition and culture.

ECO-RENOVATION

A novel experiment is underway at 16 schools around the nation, where the Environment Ministry is renovating run-down schools, saving resources and educating the next generation in the process.

WATER FOR LIFE

The International Water Project (IWP) is making a difference in Africa and Southeast Asia by using the Japanese well-drilling technique of kazusabori to help people help themselves.

PAINLESS TECHNOLOGY

The six-man operation that is Okano Industrial Corporation has created a needle designed to make the injection-phobic smile- a needle that is painless to use.

ALL ABOARD

Japanese railway enthusiasts, affectionately known as tetchan, have spawned a subculture that is increasingly attracting a more mainstream following.

EASTERN FLAVORS

A Chinese culinary expert looks at the main differences between Chinese and Japanese cuisine.

PRODUCT/ART/CINEMA

Here we take a peek at art, movies and products that are making waves in Japan.

OKINAWA'S REEFS

With nearly 200 varieties of coral and an array of diverse marine life, the reefs lurking beneath the pristine waters of Okinawa captivate divers from around the world.