12:08â¢Hakuba's 8000 Yen Powder Day
âšThe newspapers report on inbound tourism pressures, with Hakuba ski resorts raising lift tickets to 8,000 yen amid overwhelming foreign visitor numbers, causing local concerns (Chunichi, Sankei). Hotels are adapting to changing consumption patterns with immersive experiences to retain customers. The Coming of Age Day coverage focuses on Generation Z's social media attitudes in Hokkaido, with youth expressing desire for recognition while avoiding attention (Hokkaido Shimbun, TBS). Diplomatic preparations continue for PM Ishiba's US visit before mid-February (Kyodo, Japan Times).