Get the latest news from January 22, 2026, delivered clearly across domestic, economy, IT, and lifestyle categories.
Use it for gathering information during busy mornings or break times.
1. Domestic/Political: Moves Intensify Ahead of Next Lower House Election
Osaka Prefectural Chapter Requests “No Candidate Coordination Between LDP and Japan Innovation Party” to Party Executives
The Osaka Prefectural Chapter of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has requested Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and party executives not to support candidates from the Japan Innovation Party in the upcoming House of Representatives election.
With LDP and Innovation Party candidates expected to compete in all 19 single-seat constituencies within Osaka Prefecture, attention is focused on the future framework of the coalition government and election strategies.
2. Living/Weather: Caution on Traffic Restrictions Due to Heavy Snow
Preventive Road Closures Implemented Mainly in Kinki and Hokuriku Regions
Due to a strong winter-type pressure pattern, preventive closures are being implemented on national highways and expressways in the Kinki and Hokuriku regions.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism urges people to check the latest weather information, refrain from non-essential outings, and ensure winter tires are properly fitted.
- Traffic Information
Restrictions are currently in place on parts of National Route 27. The time restrictions are lifted may vary depending on snowfall conditions. - Communication Outage
In some areas of Ishikawa Prefecture, NTT Docomo mobile phone service is experiencing connectivity issues. Restoration efforts are ongoing.
3. Economy & IT: Cybersecurity and Latest Investments
Gartner Announces Key Domestic Security Issues for 2026
IT research giant Gartner Japan has released the security challenges companies should prioritize in 2026.
Particularly urgent are countermeasures against “internal threats (information leaks by departing employees)” and “AI risks.”
$1.3 Billion Uranium Enrichment Investment in Tennessee
LIST, a developer of laser uranium enrichment technology, announced a major investment in the United States.
From an energy security perspective, massive investments in next-generation technologies continue.
4. Entertainment & Trends: Looking Back at That Day
January 22nd is “Curry Day” & the History of “Crane Conservation”
- Curry Day
This day originates from the simultaneous serving of curry school lunches at elementary and junior high schools nationwide in 1982. - History
On this day in 1981, the last five wild Japanese crested ibis in Japan were captured in Sado City, Niigata Prefecture.
It also marks a milestone day for reflecting on the history of environmental conservation.
Today’s News List
| Genre | Topic | Point |
| Politics | Election Cooperation Between the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party | Competition expected in Osaka’s 19th electoral district |
| Weather | Traffic restrictions due to heavy snow | Road closures in Kinki and Hokuriku regions; NTT Docomo communication outage |
| IT | Security Strategy | Internal fraud prevention and AI risk management are key issues |
| Trend | Curry Day | An annual event since 1982 |
Summary
Today’s main news focuses on political developments ahead of the upcoming election and the impact of severe winter weather conditions on infrastructure.
Those planning to travel to snowy regions should be sure to check real-time traffic information.
