Special Reports

Stories 5-1: The Best of JAPAN Forward 2023

Check out the best of 2023 through the top 25 articles on JAPAN Forward, finishing with the 5-1 most-read stories. Did your favorites make the list?

Published

10 months ago

December 29, 2023

JAPAN Forward

Join us at JAPAN Forward as we celebrate the end of the year by reflecting on the best of 2023. Our most-read story of the year stands on its own. But did you also follow what young fathers think about government ideas and initiatives to support families in Japan?

This last of our top 25 stories digs out insights on Japanese family life, national finances, cherry blossoms, culture and photography, and the Chinese military, reflecting the seasons and news that kept Japan busy in 2023.

Take a look to find out why your fellow readers navigated to these stories more than any others. And, once again, thanks for following JAPAN Forward!

This article highlights the final 5 to 1 articles that were the most popular of 2023.

25 - 21 | 20 - 16 | 15 - 11 | 10 - 6 | 5 - 1

*Fumio Kishida speaks at the prime minister's press conference on June 13, 2023. (© Sankei)*

5. Japan To Increase Childcare Spending to Challenge Declining Births

By Galileo Ferrari

The plan calls for doubling childcare spending by the early 2030s to support families. Here, fathers weigh in on the priorities they'd most like to see tackled.

Read the full story.

4. New Nursery School Program is 'Study Abroad' for Families: Applying and First Steps

By Galileo Ferrari

My family applied through KitchHike to stay in a distant community for two weeks while our child attended a local nursery school. Here's how we got ready.

Read the full story.

3. Sakura Forecast 2023: Early Cherry Blossoms Expected in Tokyo

By Arielle Busetto

The Japan Meteorological Corporation predicts the first Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms in the Japanese capital will start to open on March 22.

Read the full story.

2. [A Photographer's Notes] The FujiFilm X100V: Is it Worth the Hype?

By Jason Halayko

A professional photographer's honest review of the FujiFilm X100V. Does it live up to the hype, and is this the best camera for you? Let's find out.

Read the full story.

1. Expert on China's PLA Says It's Mulling First Strike on Bases in Japan

By Yoshihisa Komori

In an interview, Dr Toshi Yoshihara, an expert in deciphering the strategy of China's PLA, reviews the options, risks, and deterrence China is likely to face.

Read the full story.

Thank you for reading "2023's Top 25 on JAPAN Forward." This was the last installment of the top 25 for 2023. Which was your favorite article? Let us know in the comments below!

Coming next: [Hidden Wonders of Japan] Best Selection of 2023