As I think of the new theme for this new month, I can’t help but continue with OIJ’s. This morning, I’m one of the millions of people around Japan and maybe around the world waiting for the name of the new era in Japan. I was literally glued to the television set and even captured memories of this very special day in my host country. At 11:41 AM, “Heiwa” was announced as the name of the period when the Crown Prince Nahurito will ascend to power on May 1, 2019. The only living Emperor chose to abdicate his power and this paves the way for his eldest son to take over the Chrysanthemum Throne.

Exciting days are ahead in Japan and worth monitoring its development…This year in Autumn, the country hosts the World Cup Rugby for the first time. Just 480 days more, the universe will witness the 32nd Summer Olympics, popularly dubbed Tokyo Olympics 2020. In 2025, the World Expo will be held in Osaka. Two years later, maglev, the world’s fastest train will be launched. Japan’s Hayabusa2 in space is also making history and its discoveries will make more OIJs (originated/original/only in Japan)!

Nikki Asian Review: https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Japan-unveils-dawn-of-the-Reiwa-era?fbclid=IwAR1XgbXUlDcWASKQdgVLLXuw4Rc2iLXUtnkj9LH5b6CtGsLvr64ZGPwg_4Q