Hundreds of anti-nuclear activists gathered in central Tokyo days before the 14th anniversary of the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster to commemorate the catastrophe and protest against Japan's current nuclear policies.
Despite the ongoing ecological and health impacts of the disaster, the Ishiba cabinet approved its seventh Strategic Energy Plan in February, stating that it would maximize the use of both renewable energy and nuclear power.
Compared to the sixth edition of the country's energy roadmap, the latest version omits the phrase "reduction of dependence on nuclear power, " signaling a shift in Japan's energy policy and sparking widespread public disagreement.
"I do not think it is scientifically sound to have a facility that stores uranium and plutonium for long periods. In the event of a natural disaster, it could lead to the destruction of humanity. I do not support nuclear power," said an activist from Tokyo.
The seventh plan envisions the country's reliance on nuclear power rising to about 20 percent by 2040, while renewable energy is expected to account for 40 to 50 percent. It also includes plans to initiate new construction projects and rebuild next-generation advanced reactors at decommissioned nuclear plant sites.
"Even if it costs some money, we should aim for zero carbon while developing renewable energy sources. We have to think about nuclear waste and other nuclear-related problems that may arise. It was totally the wrong decision," said another local activist.
Since the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, 14 reactors have restarted, while 11 await approval. The new energy plan, which increases reliance on nuclear power, disregards the catastrophe and only heightens the risk of another disaster, according to many protesters.
"Over the last 14 years, the government should have promoted sustainable energy policies and development projects. Build skills and human resources. But instead, we have done nothing and are once again relying on nuclear power. It is a sign of the deterioration of Japanese politics," said an activist from Tochigi Prefecture.
Anti-nuclear activists rally ahead of Fukushima nuclear disaster anniversary
High in the Himalayas, Lhasa, the capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, has quietly become one of the country's most caffeinated cities, signaling a fresh business wave in this ancient cultural hub.
With more than 800 coffee shops now serving a population of under one million, the city hosts roughly one cafe for every 1,200 residents, giving it one of the highest cafe densities in the country.
But this is not simply a transplant of Western coffee culture. On Barkhor Street in Lhasa's old town, a historic Buddhist pilgrimage circuit, baristas are stirring centuries-old yak cheese into espresso -- a blend that mirrors the city's transformation from a spiritual center into a modern regional hub.
"We have got this great Xizang-style vibe. There are plenty of cafes in Lhasa, but we are special. Locals -- even 80-year-olds -- come here for Americanos. Plus, lots of tourists, including foreigners, come just to check us out," the owner of Senxia Coffee, a local hotspot, said, revealing the secret behind his cafe's pull.
That dedication to innovation and presenting Xizang's culture through every cup have earned the shop a loyal following.
"I make a trip here once a year. It is my fourth year coming. The taste never changes, but they always have a new special to try -- and it is always great!" said a tourist from the eastern municipality Tianjin.
"It's very unique, I like it a lot. It's good coffee and it's a very nice place. The courtyard here is different than a courtyard in Germany would be," a German tourist offered similar praise.
In 2025, Lhasa's GDP crossed the 100-billion-yuan (about 14.7 billion US dollars) mark creating fertile ground for entrepreneurs, who found coffee as a light-asset business easy to start with -- small footprint, fast setup, easy to brand.
Amid intense competitions, businesses loyal to their hometown and home culture wins, Senxia's owner said.
"There are tons of entrepreneurs here. Local college grads are coming back to start businesses, and friends from inland are moving here to do the same. So the competition is actually fierce. With so many cafes around, we feel pretty lucky to have made it, and we have definitely got our own unique vibe," he said.
Lahsa sees booming coffee scene infused with local culture
Lahsa sees booming coffee scene infused with local culture
