Latest news in Japan? September 12th, 2026

Key developments reported across Japan on September 12, 2026:

• Security and Defense: North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles from the Wonsan area toward the Sea of Japan early Saturday morning, landing outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The test followed the conclusion of joint defense exercises between Japan, the United States, and South Korea. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi indicated that Tokyo is not ruling out options regarding nuclear-powered submarines to bolster maritime deterrence. nippon.com+ 2
• Economy and Monetary Policy: Market reports indicate the Bank of Japan is preparing to review its policy rate in upcoming sessions, with expectations pointing toward an increase to 1.25%. Concurrently, the government formally designated 18 regions across the country as strategic green transformation zones, easing zoning rules and providing subsidies for clean technology investments. The Japan Times+ 1
• Regional Politics and Relations: Campaigning intensifies ahead of the Okinawa gubernatorial vote, where national security concerns and U.S. base realignments feature heavily in voter sentiment. Bilaterally, China announced plans to raise visa fees sharply for Japanese visitors in response to Tokyo’s revised foreign fee schedules. The Japan Times+ 1
• Legal and Domestic Policy: The Ministry of Justice announced pilot testing for voluntary GPS tracking of certain parolees. In Hokkaido, investigators recovered footage from a passenger camera providing new visual records of sea conditions just prior to the 2022 Shiretoko boat tragedy. The Japan Times+ 1