An area of interest for many, but one that is often misunderstood, is that of the yakuza, or Japanese mafia.  Though they are technically divided into many different groups, their combined numbers make them the most populous criminal organization in the entire world.  The yakuza are more visible than their Italian, Chinese or Russian counterparts and often play important roles in Japanese business and politics.  Lately, however, the government has been looking to crack down on these criminals and undermine the power base that they have worked for hundreds of years to establish.

An estimated 1000 or more whales meet their end at the hands of Japanese whaling fleets every year.  Hunting whales for food is prohibited, though the International Whaling Commission allows the Japanese boats to hunt them as long as they are doing it for research purposes.  Much of the whale meat, however, is making its way into Japanese markets to be sold.  This has the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society up in arms and waging a (mostly) non-violent war against Japanese whalers.

In the wake of the Fukushima nuclear incident, the Japanese government has endured a continuing wave of anger and reprimand from sources across the globe.  From their own citizens and politicians, to environmental activists and organizations worldwide, to Japan’s neighbors who are particularly concerned about eating and drinking up the country’s nuclear waste products.  Without the proper regulations and safety procedures, Japan’s nuclear energy program seems to be doing more harm than good.