Japanese Lawmaker Questions Free IVF for Foreign Welfare Recipients: Calls for Private Insurance Reform

In a session of Japan's House of Councillors Administrative Oversight Committee on June 8, 2026, Haruo Kitamura, a lawmaker from the Japan Conservative Party, highlighted concerns over foreigners receiving welfare benefits accessing free in-vitro fertilization (IVF) under Japan's public health insurance system. 

Citing a fertility doctor's observations, he noted that some foreign welfare recipients, particularly younger individuals, opt directly for costly IVF procedures (typically 300,000–700,000 yen) that are fully covered for them, while many Japanese citizens face significant out-of-pocket costs even with insurance. Kitamura proposed shifting foreigners to private medical insurance instead of the national health insurance system to ensure fairness and sustainability. 
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare responded that the current system applies equally based on social solidarity principles but acknowledged the need for careful review.This discussion has sparked widespread debate in Japan about welfare eligibility, immigration policy, and resource allocation for citizens amid ongoing low birth rates.English-Language CoverageEnglish reports on this specific parliamentary exchange are limited and mostly appear in social media summaries or conservative-leaning outlets. For instance, accounts like "Japan Inside" on platforms such as Facebook have shared neutral summaries emphasizing the lawmaker's points on welfare usage and IVF access disparities, framing it as a fairness issue for Japanese taxpayers. No major mainstream Western news outlets (e.g., Reuters, BBC, or AP) have published in-depth articles as of now, likely due to the topic's domestic focus. Related discussions on Japan's welfare and fertility policies can be found in broader English analyses of Japan's demographic challenges.Japanese Reactions on X (Translated Faithfully, Neutral Presentation)Here are approximately 12 representative reactions from Japanese users on X, translated as closely as possible to the original tone while keeping content factual and suitable for general audiences. They reflect a range of opinions focused on policy concerns:

1. "It's strange that foreigners who haven't naturalized can receive welfare in the first place. If they can't work, they should return to their home country or be deported. Free IVF isn't something I can accept either. The government should protect Japanese people and expel them."
2. "IVF costs 300,000 to 500,000 yen per cycle. First, how will they raise the child born through welfare? Japan is now covering not just living expenses for non-taxpaying foreigners but also the costs of having children, plus child allowances afterward."
3. "The Conservative Party's rise will change Japan for the better. Kitamura is spot on. It seems the Ministry of Health has no intention of addressing foreigner issues. Let's spread this."
4. "This country forces 'child-rearing support fees' from working Japanese, while providing free IVF to foreign welfare recipients. Are there Japanese who aren't angry about this?"
5. "Japan is too kind. Taxes and social security are for whom? It's not discrimination but distinction we need to make clear."
6. "Foreigners on welfare getting free IVF is unacceptable. Even for Japanese on welfare, it should stop. Why should someone who can't support themselves make children with public money in another country?"
7. "The government really seems to dislike Japanese citizens. I had high hopes for Takaichi's administration to fix these loopholes, but it's disappointing."
8. "Why do foreigners need welfare? If they can't live self-sufficiently, they should go home. Especially free IVF—there's zero necessity. All systems disadvantaging working Japanese should be abolished."
9. "Foreigners should be required to join private insurance. This would prevent the medical insurance system from collapsing. The existence of 'foreigners on welfare' itself is wrong."
10. "Kitamura's opinion is completely reasonable. The government's response suggests they won't even consider fixes. Self-sufficient people should have children first."
11. "Living on welfare and then having children? Become independent first."
12. "Taxpayers pay full price while foreign welfare recipients get it free. This is not acceptable. Limit such treatments to Japanese citizens."

These posts show strong interest in policy fairness, system sustainability, and prioritizing citizens, based on the high engagement on the original Sankei News thread. Discussions often reference broader topics like self-sufficiency and resource allocation.

This summary aims for neutrality and focuses on public discourse without endorsing any side. 

Akihabara Deep Guide: Best Shops for Retro Games, Junk Hardware, and Electronics (2026)

Akihabara, Tokyo is world-famous as the mecca of anime culture and electronics. But if you only visit massive department stores like Yodobashi Camera or the mainstream Radio Kaikan, you are missing out on the true, gritty soul of "Electric Town."

For tech enthusiasts, PC builders, and retro gamers, the real treasures are hidden in the narrow back alleys—often referred to as the "Junk Street" (Jank-dori) area. Here, you can find vintage Game Boys, rare electronic components, and used PC parts at incredibly low prices.

In this local guide, we will skip the mainstream tourist traps and look at 3 legendary, deeply local shops you absolutely must check out during your Tokyo trip.

1. Super Potato (Akihabara Branch) - The Retro Gaming Heaven

If you are looking for vintage Japanese video games, Super Potato is your ultimate destination. Spanning multiple floors, this shop is practically a museum of gaming history. From rare, boxed retro Famicom (NES) cartridges to classic Sega and PlayStation consoles, they have it all.

Best For	Retro Nintendo/Sega games, gaming souvenirs, and classic arcade machines.
English Level	Tourist-friendly (English price tags available).
Location	1-11-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (3-min walk from Akihabara Station).

2. Akihabara Radio Center - The Electronic Component Maze

Located right under the train tracks next to the station, the Akihabara Radio Center feels like a time capsule from the 1970s. It is a dense, narrow maze of tiny stalls, each specializing in specific electronic parts: custom switches, LED lights, wires, microchips, and retro audio equipment.

It is the perfect place to explore if you love DIY electronics, keyboard building, or just want to experience the authentic vibe of the original Electric Town.

Best For	DIY electronics, cables, micro-components, and a cyberpunk atmosphere.
English Level	Minimal (Mostly local hobbyists, but pointing and using cash works perfectly).
Location	1-14-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Right outside the Electric Town Exit).

💡 Local Etiquette Tip: Many of these tiny stalls do not allow general photography inside the booths due to copyright and space limitations. Always look for a "No Photo" sign or politely ask before taking close-up pictures.

3. Hard Off / Mode Off Akihabara - The Junk Hardware Goldmine

For those who love the thrill of the hunt, Hard Off is legendary. Their basement "Junk Section" is famous worldwide among tech YouTubers. You can find piles of untested graphics cards, vintage cameras, old Walkmans, and keyboards selling for just a few hundred yen ($2–$5 USD). If you know how to fix hardware, you can find insane bargains here.

Best For	Cheap used laptops, retro tech gadgets, and untested junk hardware parts.
English Level	Basic (Signs explain what "Junk" means in English).
Location	3-11-11 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Near the Junk Street main crossroad).

Pro-Tips for Your Akihabara Junk Hunt

• Bring Cash (Yen): While major stores accept credit cards, many of the tiny alleyway stalls and junk boxes still strictly operate on cash only.
• Understand "Junk" (ジャンク): In Japan, "Junk" means the item is sold as-is with no warranty. It might be completely broken, or it might work perfectly. Buy at your own risk!
• Visit in the Afternoon: Many smaller back-alley shops don't open until 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM, so plan your deep exploration for after lunch.

Conclusion

The true magic of Akihabara is found when you get lost in its side streets. Whether you are a hardcore programmer looking for cheap spare parts, or a casual gamer looking for a piece of nostalgia like a vintage Game Boy, these shops offer an experience you can't find anywhere else in the world.

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo soon? Let us know in the comments which shop you want to visit first!

Anker Prime 65W vs Nano II 65W: Which Charger Should You Buy?

When looking for a powerful, compact charger for your laptop and smartphone, Anker is usually the go-to brand. However, their lineup can be incredibly confusing. Two of their most popular 65W chargers—the

Anker Prime 65W and the Anker Nano II 65W—look similar on paper but serve completely different needs.

Should you spend extra cash for the premium Prime model, or is the older Nano II more than enough for your daily commute? In this deep-dive comparison, we will break down the specs, ports, size, and real-world performance to help you choose the perfect charger.

Quick Specs Comparison

Before we jump into the details, let’s look at the raw specifications side-by-side:

Feature	Anker Prime 65W	Anker Nano II 65W
Total Output	65W Max	65W Max
Total Ports	3 Ports (2x USB-C, 1x USB-A)	1 Port (1x USB-C)
Technology	GaNPrime (Multi-port power allocation)	GaN II
Prongs	Foldable	Foldable
Best For	Multi-device charging (Laptop + Phone + Buds)	Single device minimalist setup (Laptop only)

Key Difference 1: Multi-Port Versatility vs. Minimalist Focus

The most obvious difference is the port selection. The Anker Prime 65W is a multi-port beast. It features two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. Thanks to Anker's GaNPrime technology, it dynamically distributes power. If you plug in a MacBook and an iPhone simultaneously, it intelligently splits the wattage (e.g., 45W for the laptop and 20W for the phone).

On the other hand, the Anker Nano II 65W is strictly a single-port USB-C charger. It does one thing, and it does it perfectly: delivering a full 65W stream of power to a single device like a MacBook Pro or a Steam Deck.

💡 Quick Tip: If you travel often and don't want to carry separate bricks for your phone and laptop, the Anker Prime will instantly save space in your travel bag.

Key Difference 2: Size and Portability

Both chargers utilize Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology to keep their footprints remarkably small compared to Apple's bulky stock chargers. However, the design shapes differ:

• Anker Nano II 65W: Features a more "cube-like" shape. It is incredibly compact but can sometimes stick out further from loose wall outlets.
• Anker Prime 65W: Features a elongated, "flat bar" design. This keeps the weight closer to the wall, preventing the charger from falling out of worn-down hotel outlets.

Key Difference 3: Thermal Management (Heat)

When pushing 65W of power, compact chargers get warm. The Anker Prime features ActiveShield 2.0, which monitors temperature millions of times per day to prevent overheating. While the Nano II also stays safely within legal limits, the Prime model tends to run slightly cooler when charging multiple devices at peak capacity.

Which One Should You Choose?

Buy the Anker Prime 65W if:

• You want to charge your laptop, phone, and wireless earbuds using a single wall outlet.
• You are a frequent traveler who values a flat, stable plug design.
• You want the latest safety and smart power-allocation features.

Buy the Anker Nano II 65W if:

• You only need to charge one device (like your laptop) at a time.
• You want to save money—the Nano II is significantly cheaper than the Prime model.
• You prefer an ultra-small cube format that fits into tiny tech pouches.

Final Verdict

For most modern users, the Anker Prime 65W is the superior choice because we all carry more than one device these days. It replaces three separate bricks. However, if you are looking for the absolute cheapest way to safely charge your laptop at top speed, the Anker Nano II 65W remains an unbeatable value choice.

Which charger fits your desk setup better? Let us know in the comments below!

How to Fix Cursor AI Autocomplete Not Working (GitHub Copilot Conflict)

Are you excited to use Cursor AI, but frustrated because the autocomplete features (like Tab-to-accept) are suddenly not working? Or perhaps you are seeing weird, duplicated code suggestions overlapping each other?

You are not alone. This is a very common issue that happens when Cursor's built-in Copilot (Cursor Tab) conflicts with the official GitHub Copilot extension.

Since Cursor is built on top of VS Code, it automatically imports your existing extensions. If both autocomplete engines try to predict your code at the same time, they break each other.

In this quick guide, we’ll show you exactly how to fix this conflict and get your Cursor autocomplete working perfectly in less than 2 minutes.

The Root Cause: Why is Cursor Autocomplete Broken?

Cursor has its own powerful AI autocomplete feature called Cursor Tab (formerly Copilot++).

If you also have the GitHub Copilot extension enabled in Cursor, both systems will fight for control over your Tab key and your editor ghost text. This results in:

• The Tab key failing to accept suggestions.
• Double suggestions appearing on top of each other.
• Cursor AI completely freezing up.

To fix this, you need to choose one and disable the other's autocomplete functionality. Here is how to do it step-by-step.

Method 1: The Recommended Fix (Use Cursor Tab, Disable Copilot Autocomplete)

If you want to experience the full power of Cursor AI (including multi-line edits and smart rewrites), you should use Cursor Tab and disable GitHub Copilot's code completion.

💡 Note: You can still keep GitHub Copilot Chat active in your sidebar if you want to use both AI models!

Step 1: Open Cursor Settings

Press Ctrl + Shift + J (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + J (Mac) to open the Cursor Settings panel.

Step 2: Ensure Cursor Tab is Enabled

1. Navigate to Features > Cursor Tab.
2. Make sure the toggle for Cursor Tab is turned ON.

Step 3: Disable GitHub Copilot's Ghost Text

1. Open your standard VS Code settings inside Cursor by pressing Ctrl + , (Windows) or Cmd + , (Mac).
2. Search for github.copilot.inlineSuggest.enable in the search bar.
3. Uncheck the box (set it to false).

This completely stops GitHub Copilot from interfering with Cursor's native inline suggestions.

Method 2: Alternative Fix (Use GitHub Copilot, Disable Cursor Tab)

If you prefer GitHub Copilot's suggestions over Cursor's native engine but still want to use Cursor for its "Chat" and "Composer" features, you can turn off Cursor Tab.

1. Open Cursor Settings (Cmd + Shift + J or Ctrl + Shift + J).
2. Go to Features > Cursor Tab.
3. Toggle the switch to OFF.

Now, Cursor will strictly use the GitHub Copilot extension for all inline code completions.

Still Not Working? Try This Quick Reset

If you applied the fixes above and the autocomplete is still dead, try these two quick troubleshooting steps:

1. Restart the Language Server: Open the Command Palette (Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + P), type Developer: Reload Window, and hit Enter.
2. Check Your Subscription/Quota: Cursor Tab requires a free trial or a Pro subscription. Go to Cursor Settings > Account to make sure you haven't hit your free monthly limit.

Wrap Up

By separating Cursor Tab and GitHub Copilot, you remove the key conflict that freezes the editor. For the best experience, we highly recommend Method 1, as Cursor Tab is specifically optimized for this editor.

Did this fix your issue? Let us know in the comments below which AI setup you prefer!

Controversy Grows in Japan: Non-Indictment of Filipino Woman Sparks Debate on Foreign Crime Justice

 A 23-year-old woman from the Philippines, residing in Nagoya’s Kita Ward, was arrested on suspicion of violating Japan’s Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds. She allegedly received a cash card in someone else’s name in exchange for 100,000 yen in Komaki City between February and March.

The woman had earlier been a victim of a confinement incident involving Vietnamese individuals and was rescued by police. On June 5, the Nagoya District Public Prosecutors Office decided not to indict her, stating that the evidence made it difficult to secure an appropriate judgment in court.

The case has triggered widespread online discussion in Japan about fairness and consistency in handling such cases.Japanese Reactions on X (Translated Faithfully)Here are selected public reactions from Japanese users on X, translated as closely as possible to the originals while remaining neutral and factual:

1. “This kind of lenient disposition makes foreign criminals think they can get away with it. The rise in foreign crimes is largely the fault of the police, prosecutors, and courts.”
2. “If a Japanese person did the same thing, would they get a non-indictment? Wrong is wrong, regardless of nationality.”
3. “Not indicting is not acceptable. Crimes should be properly judged under the law.”
4. “Another non-indictment case...”
5. “Japanese citizens would face real punishment and fines for this. For some politicians and foreigners, it’s often release or non-indictment.”
6. “Why non-indictment? Can someone explain the reason clearly?”
7. “Foreign suspects often end up with non-indictment. Japan is becoming too lenient.”
8. “I’m really tired of seeing this kind of outcome...”
9. “The judiciary seems kind only to foreigners.”
10. “Maybe they don’t indict because prisons are already full?”
11. “Thank you for sharing info on these cases. We need to speak up about public safety issues.”
12. “Non-indictment again? This pattern keeps repeating.”
13. “It feels like prosecutors have an ongoing non-indictment policy for foreigners.”
14. “We must face the reality that foreign-related crimes are increasing.”
15. “The justice system appears inconsistent when it comes to cases involving foreigners.”

These reactions reflect a variety of concerns raised by users regarding equal application of the law. The summary is based on publicly available news reports and X conversations, presented factually for informational purposes only.

Youngest Female Mayor in Japan Takes Historic Maternity Leave

 Yawata City Mayor Shoko Kawata, 35, Japan's youngest female mayor, has announced she will take maternity leave ahead of her first child's birth in mid-September. She plans approximately 8 weeks before and 8 weeks after delivery (around 16 weeks total), with the possibility of childcare leave afterward. This is believed to be the first such case for a sitting mayor in Japan.

Kawata stated her goal is to send a clear message that Yawata is a city that supports child-rearing. During her absence, the deputy mayor will handle daily duties, with Kawata joining critical matters remotely when needed. She aims to return while balancing work and family through flexible arrangements.

The announcement has drawn attention as a potential model for modernizing public roles and encouraging women in leadership, amid Japan's ongoing efforts to address low birth rates.Japanese Reactions on X (Translated Closely)Here are approximately 12 representative reactions from Japanese users on X, reflecting a range of views. Translations aim to stay faithful to the original tone and wording while remaining neutral and appropriate.

1. "The fact that a female mayor taking maternity/childcare leave is reported as 'possibly the first in the country' shows how this society has not designed systems assuming pregnancy and childbirth. Childbirth is not a personal issue but social reproduction itself."
2. "This is a sleight of hand. Supporting child-rearing is fine, but it's not about the mayor having a child and taking long leave. If the city can run without the mayor, then the mayor position isn't needed in the first place."
3. "If the mayor isn't needed and things run fine, then why is a 15 million yen annual salary plus 18 million yen retirement allowance necessary?"
4. "It should be normal for anyone to be able to give birth and raise children. Since only women can give birth, it's society's responsibility to create a system that supports them. Having the mayor do this will advance necessary policies—very welcome."
5. "That's why important posts can't be given to women. This person lacks responsibility too much."
6. "I think there is meaning in the person who sends the message of 'a city that supports child-rearing' actually using the system themselves. The idea that leaders must sacrifice even their private lives and reproduction would only make a sustainable low-birth-rate society more distant."
7. "It's surprising that there was no precedent before. They should take leave proactively regardless of election or term. If there are institutional deficiencies for the mayor's childcare leave, laws should be prepared to fix them."
8. "If the deputy mayor can handle it, then that person should just be the mayor."
9. "Having a child is a good thing, isn't it? Of course, it's unpaid during maternity leave? But the meaning differs quite a bit between leaders in responsible positions and general employees, so that point is worth discussing."
10. "This person becoming the first penguin will make it normal for both women and men to take leave boldly. Unless society improves to where valuing children and family is the norm, the birth rate won't stop declining."
11. "The important thing is not 'don't take maternity leave!' but how to manage city administration during that time. This is a good opportunity to discuss it properly. Private life exists, so these things will happen in the future, and it would be better for young people to run for office more easily."
12. "It's clearly wrong to discuss the mayor and general workers on the same level. If taking maternity leave, it should have been stated at the time of candidacy."

These reactions highlight diverse opinions on leadership responsibilities, gender roles, administrative continuity, and societal support for families. The discussion remains active on X.

Tokyo Disney Resort Faces Backlash Over Alleged Uneven Rule Enforcement for Foreign Visitors

Tokyo Disney Resort, known for its strict policies on outside food and visible tattoos, is drawing online criticism after photos showed groups of foreign visitors eating brought-in meals like cup noodles inside the park. 

Official rules prohibit outside food (with limited exceptions) and require covering or restricting certain tattoos, directing guests to picnic areas outside for personal meals. Many Japanese commenters on social media expressed frustration, questioning why rules appear inconsistently applied and whether this creates unfair treatment.
Japanese Reactions from X (Translated Directly)
Here are selected public reactions from Japanese users on X, presented neutrally as they appeared in the discussion (paraphrased only for clarity where needed, keeping original sentiment):

1. "Disney is supposed to be the land of dreams, but seeing this makes me really disappointed. There are cast members right nearby, yet they just ignore it..."
2. "Foreigners having outside food picnics and tattoos being okay... After Japanese discrimination, is the garbage problem next? It's no longer a dream land, just a polluted one. I don't want to pay high prices to experience discrimination."
3. "The cast members knew about the outside food but overlooked it. When there are that many people, on-site staff can't handle it—management needs to address it."
4. "I went to Disney this week and saw a foreign Elsa cosplay otaku guy with Elsa tattoos on his arms and legs. It was bold."
5. "Disney apparently now handles foreign outside food on a case-by-case basis. For Japanese people who follow the rules, the sense of unfairness is huge."
6. "Foreigners are spreading out brought-in food on the ground at Disney, and it's being tolerated case-by-case, leading to security collapse. Fans are furious."
7. "Foreigners bringing in food and eating it, but if it's not Japanese people, they can do all sorts of things without being told anything. I've seen it many times near my workplace station."
8. "Disney has become a lawless zone... Foreign groups spreading brought-in food and sitting on the ground eating."
9. "Cup noodles at Disney? Did they even have hot water? Anyway, when at Disney, why not enjoy something more luxurious instead of cheap stuff like that."
10. "The image of Disney has really gone down. It feels like it's turning into a slum."
11. "If Japanese people say 'discrimination' or 'I don't understand Japanese,' maybe they can get fair treatment too?"
12. "There are staff with clearly left-leaning appearances working there."
13. "Disney is discriminating."
14. "I think they will discriminate against Japanese people. Because that's what Disney is like now."

These reflect a range of sentiments focused on rule enforcement, fairness, and park atmosphere. The topic has sparked broad online debate about maintaining consistent standards for all guests at the resort. Discussions emphasize preserving the enjoyable experience for everyone while following posted guidelines.