Former Justice Minister Kawai Katsuyuki and his lawmaker wife, Kawai Anri, denied charges of vote buying in the opening of their trial at Tokyo District Court on Tuesday.
Prosecutors alleged that Kawai Katsuyuki distributed about 270,000 dollars in cash to 100 local politicians and senior members of support groups to secure votes for his wife. She won a seat in the Upper House election in July last year.
Universal Studios Japan plans to postpone the opening of its new area in Osaka featuring the popular Nintendo game character Mario due to the coronavirus epidemic.
Construction of the new theme area, including attractions and restaurants, is almost complete at the USJ site in Osaka's Konohana Ward. The operator of the park initially planned to open it in late July.
Sakamoto Maaya's new song "Clover" has been picked up as the opening theme for anime 'Arte' to premiere in April.
'Arte' is based on a manga by Ookubo Kei that was serialized in 'Gekkan Comic Zenon.' Set in Florence during the 16th century, it tells the story about a young girl named Arte who dreams of becoming an artist.