Morning coverage focused on the aftermath of yesterday's magnitude 5 earthquake, which damaged an important cultural property and disrupted train services that have since returned to normal operation. Media attention shifted to Beijing hosting the "world's first" humanoid robot half marathon, marking a significant technological spectacle.

US-Japan tariff tensions persisted with Japan's negotiator ruling out a quick deal despite Trump's push, while reports emerged of expanded rice imports being considered. The Foreign Minister emphasized that security concerns should remain separate from trade negotiations, maintaining Japan's consistent position.

International developments included Russia announcing a temporary Easter military pause in Ukraine, while domestically, the government announced a ministerial council to support Japan's "ice age generation" - those who struggled during the economic downturn of the late 1990s. The Osaka World Expo entered its second week amid concerns about unusually hot weather.