As Japan sees record numbers of "grave closings" due to aging demographics, more Japanese are creating family trees to discover their roots. With Meiji-era family registers facing destruction deadlines, the race to trace ancestry has become urgent.

Japan's beloved Garigari-kun popsicle will increase to 90 yen from March 2026 due to rising logistics and material costs. Explore the price history since 1981 and reactions from Japanese consumers and international perspectives.

Despite Japan's record 5.08% wage increase in 2024—highest in 33 years—real wages remain negative for 4 consecutive months. Soaring food prices, yen depreciation, and logistics costs squeeze households. Rice prices surge 64.5%. Will the wage-price virtuous cycle materialize?