1. A recent spate of bear attacks in Japan has prompted some businesses to take action. Leading convenience-store chain Lawson has issued a safety manual for workers and customers. It tells store managers to switch their front doors from automatic to manual if bears are sighted nearby, so they can only be opened by hand. Workers are also told to clean outdoor garbage spaces more frequently, as the smell of food attracts the animals.
2. A summary of Bank of Japan policymakers’ opinions at their last meeting reflects a view that their time for another interest-rate hike is approaching. The summary released Monday shows policymakers decided to stand pat given the uncertainties in the global economy and the need to watch the momentum toward wage increases in Japan. But the document includes the opinion that even if no immediate action was required, “the Bank should not miss the timing to raise the policy interest rate.”
3. Flamed from torches illuminated the night sky of a city in northeastern Japan on Saturday during a traditional fire festival. The Taimatsu Akashi took place at Midorigaoka Park in Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture. It is said to have originated more than 430 years ago to honor people who died defending Sukagawa Castle against Date Masamune during the Sengoku warring states period. Date was a feudal warlord in the region.