Monkeys at a zoo in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, are gathering around a bonfire to warm up in the winter cold.

The Japan Monkey Centre in Inuyama City showcases the event every year. The custom began nearly 60 years ago when zookeepers made a bonfire for themselves ... and the monkeys who are usually scared of fire moved closer to enjoy its warmth.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga Yoshihide says the government is keeping an eye on developments involving Chinese Confucius Institutes.

The institutes are educational establishments set up by Beijing in cooperation with universities around the world, including Japan, to promote Chinese language and culture.