As 2019 comes to a close, we at JAPAN Forward are reflecting on the stories that moved Japan this year, and the stories our readers liked best.
For five days starting December 25, we will be sharing a few of the stories in the categories that dominated our coverage of the news in 2019, through the eyes of our editors. Please join us in reflecting on the year that was.
OTHER STORIES IN THE SERIES:
NEXT:
Rugby World Cup and Other ‘Firsts’ in Japanese Sports
Welcome to the Era of Reiwa
Typhoon Hagibis, one of several devastating weather events of the past year, was the worst typhoon to hit Japan in five decades. Together with other severe weather events of the year, Hagibis caused us to wonder what steps should be taken to protect people and property in the future from the widespread devastation that such storms could cause across a wide swath of Japan. Read our stories here:
- Japan Gears Up for Long-Lasting Effects of Typhoon Hagibis, As Death Toll Rises to 74
- PHOTOS | Chaos at Narita as Typhoon Faxai Leaves Thousands Stranded
The lessons of Hagibis were punctuated by the Nobel Prize awarded to Japanese scientist Akira Yoshino, who expressed hope that his work on lithium-ion batteries would help solve global energy issues and help the environment. Read our stories here:
The heavy rains, flooding, and landslides that devastated many regions of Japan brought home the urgency of preparing Japan for climate change — now. Read our stories here:
- Experts Reevaluate Disaster Prevention Measures After Record-Breaking Typhoon Hagibis
- After Hagibis: Infrastructure Lessons From the Arakawa
Author: JAPAN Forward