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Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has died at age 97

Yayoi Kusama, a prominent Japanese artist, has passed away at the age of 97. She was renowned for her distinctive polka dotted artworks and installations, which gained international recognition.

Deutsche Welle

Yayoi Kusama, Renowned Japanese Artist, Passes Away at 97

Yayoi Kusama, a celebrated Japanese artist known for her immersive installations and polka dot sculptures, has passed away at the age of 97. Throughout her career, she openly discussed her mental health struggles and used her experiences as inspiration for her art. Kusama's works gained significant recognition in recent years, with major exhibitions and auction sales reflecting her lasting impact on the art world.

Al Jazeera English

Community Effort to Restore Historic Castle in Japan

A large community effort is underway in Japan to restore a historic castle that has faced structural challenges. Thousands are involved in the project, emphasizing the significance of cultural preservation.

Al Jazeera English

Japanese Delegation Visits Beijing to Address Tensions with China

A Japanese cross-party delegation has landed in Beijing to engage in discussions aimed at improving strained relations with China. This visit comes as Japan seeks to address significant diplomatic tensions that have developed over recent years.

Al Jazeera English

Magnitude 5.9 earthquake injures 37 in eastern Japan

An earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale hit eastern Japan on August 23, 2026, leading to 37 reported injuries. Additional information about the impact and affected areas is currently limited.

Ars Technica

Study Finds Hibernation Causes Significant Synapse Loss in Mice

A study published in Science reveals that inducing a hibernation-like state in mice leads to a significant loss of synapses, yet the mice retain their memories. The research, conducted by Kazumasa Tanaka and his team, examines how memories are stored in the brain despite changes in neural connections over time.

TechCrunch

Letara raises $16 million to expand hybrid rocket technology

Letara, a Japanese space startup, has secured $16 million in funding to expand its hybrid rocket technology. The company plans to move beyond small satellite thrusters and target a wider market that encompasses space, defense, and security applications.

Deutsche Welle

Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Hits Southern Andes in Peru

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake occurred in the southern Andes of Peru, according to the US Geological Survey. The Peru's Geophysical Institute reported a higher magnitude, but there are no immediate reports of casualties.

Washington Examiner

International Criminal Court Condemns U.S. Sanctions on Officials

The International Criminal Court has condemned U.S. sanctions against its President Tomoko Akane and Senior Trial Lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The ICC and various international leaders criticized the sanctions as undermining judicial independence and the rule of law, with the U.S. asserting that the ICC threatens American sovereignty.

taipeitimes.com

Japan to Test Hypersonic Missiles in Australia Under Defense Agreement

Japan and Australia have agreed to conduct hypersonic missile tests in Australia as part of a new defense cooperation agreement. The deal aims to enhance military collaboration between the two countries amid rising regional security concerns. The agreement also includes the development of a laser system for threat detection.

Al Jazeera English

Heavy Rains Cause Flooding in Lima, Peru

Lima, Peru is experiencing significant flooding due to heavy rains, which have caused road closures, overflowing rivers, and landslides. The situation continues to affect transportation and infrastructure in the area.

Axios

USS George Washington Deployment Highlights U.S. Military Presence Challenges in the Pacific

The USS George Washington is being redeployed to the Middle East, leaving the U.S. without an aircraft carrier in the Pacific. This situation raises concerns about the U.S. military's ability to maintain a strong presence in both regions, especially as adversaries like China increase their military activities. Analysts warn that this could lead to doubts among U.S. allies regarding American support in potential crises.

Al Jazeera English

Japan's GDP Growth Slows in Second Quarter

Japan's GDP grew by 0.3 percent in the second quarter of 2026, which was below expectations. The slowdown is linked to reduced consumption and capital spending.