Ex-Japan governor sent sexually harassing texts to staff

Ex-Japan governor sent sexually harassing texts to staff

File photo shows Fukui Gov. Tatsuji Sugimoto speaking at a press conference in Fukui, central Japan, on Dec. 4, 2025, after the prefectural parliament approved his resignation over a sexual harassment allegation. An investigative report by external lawyers said on Jan. 7, 2026, that he sent some 1,000 sexually harassing texts to multiple female staff of the local government and touched female staff members' bodies several times.

Rally to seek return of Japanese abductees

Rally to seek return of Japanese abductees

Former Japanese abductee Yasushi Chimura speaks during a rally held in Fukui, central Japan, on Dec. 14, 2025, for the return to Japan of other Japanese abducted by North Korea. Chimura, 70, abducted in 1978, is one of the five Japanese abducted by North Korea who returned home in 2002.

Crown prince in Fukui

Crown prince in Fukui

Japanese Crown Prince Fumihito (2nd from L) and Crown Princess Kiko (R) listen to elementary school students explaining their greenery activities in Fukui, central Japan, on Oct. 19, 2024 (Pool photo)

Crown prince in Fukui

Crown prince in Fukui

Japanese Crown Prince Fumihito (2nd from L) and Crown Princess Kiko (2nd from R) prepare to fertilize a tree in Fukui, central Japan, on Oct. 19, 2024, that was planted in 2009 by then Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.

Heavy snow in central Japan

Heavy snow in central Japan

Photo taken on Dec. 23, 2023, shows a fallen cherry tree in Fukui, central Japan, following heavy snow.

Illegal drugs confiscated in Fukui Pref.

Illegal drugs confiscated in Fukui Pref.

FUKUI, Japan - Packets of illegal drugs confiscated by police are shown in Fukui, central Japan, on Oct. 30, 2014.