Scandal-hit ex-minister Matsushima to retain seat

Scandal-hit ex-minister Matsushima to retain seat

TOKYO, Japan - Former Justice Minister Midori Matsushima, a candidate of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in the lower house election, celebrates in her electoral district in Tokyo's Sumida Ward on the night of Dec. 14, 2014, after securing victory in the election. Matsushima resigned from the Cabinet post in October less than two months after assuming it over allegations of violating the election law by distributing paper fans to constituents in the past, which could count as a donation banned under the law.

Obuchi to retain Diet seat

Obuchi to retain Diet seat

TAKASAKI, Japan - Scandal-hit former trade minister Yuko Obuchi, a candidate of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in the lower house election, smiles during an interview in her electoral district in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture after securing victory in the election on the night of Dec. 14, 2014. Obuchi, the daughter of the late Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi, resigned from the Cabinet post in October less than two months after assuming it over dubious political funds reports.

Praemium Imperiale award winners

Praemium Imperiale award winners

TOKYO, Japan - Athol Fugard, Arvo Part, Steven Holl, Giuseppe Penone, and Martial Raysse (From L) line up for photos in Tokyo on October 14, 2014, after receiving the awards of the Praemium Imperiale, global art prize in honor of Prince Takamatsu awarded annually by the Japan Art Association.

World Heritage site Himeji Castle reappears after repair

World Heritage site Himeji Castle reappears after repair

KOBE, Japan - The main keep of Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, western Japan, is photographed from a Kyodo News helicopter on June 14, 2014. The castle, under repair since October 2009, is scheduled to reopen in March 2015.