Talking robot 'Unazuki Kabochan'

Talking robot 'Unazuki Kabochan'

OSAKA, Japan - A woman holds a robot called ''Unazuki Kabochan'' in Osaka on Feb. 29, 2012, that medical products maker Pip Co. and Osaka City University developed for elderly people. The robot has many functions including nodding and talking using 400 phrases, and reacting to light, sound and touches. The developers said improvements in cognitive ability and soothing effects have been confirmed after 18 women living alone aged 65 or older lived with the robot for two months.

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

TOYAMA, Japan - Tourists enjoy the scenic view from a trolley train which the Kurobe Gorge Railway Co. began operating partially April 20 for this season in Toyama Prefecture, central Japan. The 20.1 kilometer railway between Unazuki and Keyakidaira will fully open May 1.

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

TOYAMA, Japan - Tourists enjoy the scenic view from a trolley train which the Kurobe Gorge Railway Co. began operating partially April 20 for this season in Toyama Prefecture, central Japan. The 20.1 kilometer railway between Unazuki and Keyakidaira will fully open May 1. (Kyodo)

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

Kurobe gorge trolley train runs open partially

TOYAMA, Japan - Tourists enjoy the scenic view from a trolley train which the Kurobe Gorge Railway Co. began operating partially April 20 for this season in Toyama Prefecture, central Japan. The 20.1 kilometer railway between Unazuki and Keyakidaira will fully open May 1. (Kyodo)

Talking robot 'Unazuki Kabochan'

Talking robot 'Unazuki Kabochan'

OSAKA, Japan - A woman holds a robot called ''Unazuki Kabochan'' in Osaka on Feb. 29, 2012, that medical products maker Pip Co. and Osaka City University developed for elderly people. The robot has many functions including nodding and talking using 400 phrases, and reacting to light, sound and touches. The developers said improvements in cognitive ability and soothing effects have been confirmed after 18 women living alone aged 65 or older lived with the robot for two months. (Kyodo)