A strong earthquake struck the same Japanese coast devastated by last year's massive quake and tsunami, generating small waves but no immediate reports of heavy damage.

Ian D. Robinson finds an odd way to get intimate in Japan.

When in Japan, do as the Japanese do - ski. And when not skiing, learn how to make sushi.

New Zealand has joined Australia in questioning the validity of Japan's whaling for scientific purposes in the Southern Ocean, says MP Murray McCully.

Any fisherman knows that catching the big one often requires waking up very early. The same is true for seafood lovers angling to see the famous tuna auction at the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo.

Getting lost is part of discovering an unfamiliar city. And, as Chris Pritchard discovers, negotiating the streets of Kyoto throws up some unique challenges.

Camera-maker Olympus' former president has admitted covering up US$1.5 billion in investment losses.

Clear cut results are thin on the ground but Prime Minister John Key said today he was happy with this year's Apec economic meeting in Vladivostok, Russia.

Getting a tattoo in Japan means forever entering the world of other people with tattoos and staying within it.

Europe and Japan gain, but US makers take a hit as buyers turn away from the thirsty monsters that have ruled the market.