Seismologists report accumulating strain on the subduction boundary off the Sanriku coast, noting the area’s history of repeated large earthquakes after Aomori recorded strong-intensity shaking. Mitsuharu Yasuda of the Sapporo Chamber of Commerce signals a push to revive a Winter Olympics bid with 2038 in view, citing expectations for significant local economic impact. An Abashiri rail‑driving experience facility launches a crowdfunding campaign to extend track by 5 meters and build a boarding platform ahead of a planned spring 2026 full opening. Average retail prices for size‑5 whole Christmas cakes have climbed to the ¥4,700 range nationwide, about ¥900 higher than four years ago as ingredient costs rise. Kushiro Coal Mine debuts CO2 capture equipment aiming to recover roughly 100 tons annually and reuse the captured gas as backfill material in mine operations.
