Overview

• LDP leader Sanae Takaichi met Komeito chief Saito for fresh talks, with Komeito seeking resolution of political and finance issues before confirming continuation of the coalition, NHK reported.
• The Sapporo City Board of Education is inviting book donations through December 9 for the Tadao Ando–designed Children’s Book Forest on the Hokkaido University campus.
• Hakodate and Sumoto in Hyogo Prefecture signed a mutual disaster-aid pact on October 5 to strengthen support ties rooted in historical connections.
• Japan’s transport ministry announced ministerial honors tied to Railway Day for 99 people and 8 organizations, including three awardees from Hokkaido, with a ceremony set for October 14 in Tokyo.
• Tomakomai is developing and testing a starfish-based deer repellent to reduce vehicle collisions and could begin roadside dispersal as early as next spring if efficacy is confirmed.