- 【Politics】Prime Minister Takaichi Officially Announces Dissolution of House of Representatives: Super-Short Election Campaign to Begin with February 8 Vote
- 【Weather】The “Great Cold” Solar Term: Japan Hit by Strongest, Longest Cold Wave of the Season
- 【Economy】Nikkei Average Falls Again; Expectations and Anxieties Surrounding the Takaichi Administration’s “Expansionary Fiscal Policy”
- 【Sports】Grand Sumo Tournament: Day 10 Highlights
- 【Summary】Checklist for Tomorrow
【Politics】Prime Minister Takaichi Officially Announces Dissolution of House of Representatives: Super-Short Election Campaign to Begin with February 8 Vote
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi formally announced at a press conference on the evening of the 19th that she will dissolve the House of Representatives on the 23rd of this month.
- Schedule
This will be an “ultra-short campaign period,” with the election announced on January 27 and voting and counting taking place on February 8. - Reason for Dissolution
He emphasized that “a major shift in key policies (such as zero consumption tax on food items and fundamental strengthening of security) requires the trust of the people.” - Opposition Reaction
The newly formed “Center-Left Reform Alliance”—comprising the Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito—strongly opposed the move, arguing that “budget deliberations should take priority.”
The political landscape has abruptly shifted into election mode.
【Weather】The “Great Cold” Solar Term: Japan Hit by Strongest, Longest Cold Wave of the Season
Today, the 20th, marks the “Great Cold” solar term, considered the coldest period of the year.
As forecasted, a powerful cold wave of a magnitude seen only once every few years is sweeping in.
- Heavy Snow Warning
Heavy snowfall lasting five consecutive days or more is expected along the Sea of Japan coast, including Hokkaido, Tohoku, and Hokuriku, through around the 25th. - Impact on Transportation
NEXCO companies are urging people to avoid non-essential travel due to risks of poor visibility (whiteout conditions) and vehicles becoming stranded. - Temperatures
Temperatures have plummeted back to midwinter levels nationwide, with even central Tokyo failing to reach a high of 10°C.
【Economy】Nikkei Average Falls Again; Expectations and Anxieties Surrounding the Takaichi Administration’s “Expansionary Fiscal Policy”
On the 19th, the Tokyo stock market saw the Nikkei Average fall for the third consecutive day, closing at 53,583 yen.
- Market Reaction
Concerns over the Trump administration’s tariff policies, coupled with uncertainty in domestic politics stemming from the snap general election, are weighing on the market. - Key Focus
The focus is on how Prime Minister Takaichi’s proposed policies—such as “zero consumption tax on food and beverages” and “expansionary fiscal policy”—will impact the market going forward.
【Sports】Grand Sumo Tournament: Day 10 Highlights
The tournament has reached its midpoint, and the championship race is heating up.
- Situation
Amidst the turmoil of two Yokozuna suffering consecutive losses, Kotosakura and others are chasing Kirishima, who has one loss. - Topics
Attention is also focused outside the ring, including episodes involving Tokiwayama Oyakata (formerly Ryuzan Sugii), who is retiring at the end of this tournament.
【Summary】Checklist for Tomorrow
- Election Updates
Political parties are accelerating their pledge announcements and candidate nominations. - Disaster Preparedness
Residents in snowy regions should confirm their stockpiles of food and fuel in preparation for power outages and transportation disruptions. - Health Management
Be cautious of heat shock and infectious diseases caused by sudden temperature drops.
