Are You Hot and Tired - Have a Glass of Eel

That's what they do in Japan when it gets into their hottest season. That means it is eel season. Now they have put out a canned drink and it is mainly for men who are exhausted by the summer's heat. They believe eating eel boosts stamina so now they came out with this fizzy, yellow-colored drink. It contains extracts from the head and bones of eel and five vitamins contained in the fish. Eel days are July 24 and Aug 5 especially this year. It makes me sick to think of it. Yuck.

Japan Prime Minister Sets Out Policy Agenda

Japan's new prime minister has called for dialogue with the opposition to resolve a row over a controversial naval deployment. In his first speech to parliament, Yasuo Fukuda said extending the mission, which supports US led troops in Afghanistan, remained an urgent task. The 71 year old also pledged to build closer ties with Asian neighbors and restore public trust in government. He became prime minister after Shinzo Abe stepped down last month.

Japanese Nuclear Damage "Limited"

United Nations experts say earthquake damage to the world's largest nuclear power plant, in Japan, appears to be limited and less than expected. The station was hit by a 6.8 magnitude quake on July 16 that killed at least 10 people. There was found to have been a radioactive leak and it was shut down. Inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency warned there could be implications for the long term operation of the plant.

Quake Damage to Japan Nuclear Plant

An earthquake wracked nuclear power plant in Japan was ordered closed indefinitely amid growing anger over revelations that damage was much worst than initially announced and mounting international concern about Jan's nuclear stewardship. Toyota and other Japanese automakers, meanwhile, suspended production at factories across the country because a major parts supplier sustained damage from the magnitude 6,8 quake which killed 10 people and left tens of thousands without power or water.

Japan's Agriculture Minister Kills Himself

Toshikatsu Matsuoka has died in the hospital after reportedly committing suicide. The 62 year old was found hanged in his Tokyo apartment hours before he was to face questions in parliament over his links to a political funding scandal. Efforts to resuscitate him at the hospital failed. Officials said police were still investigating the cause of death. His resignation had been called for over unexplained expenses claimed for a rent-free office.