The governments of Japan and Tokyo launched a plan to increase the number of multi-language signs in Tokyo ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
A report in the Yomiuri Shimbun says the signs will primarily be in English and have pictograms to help guests navigate Tokyo’s public spaces.
"It’s important to improve the environment for welcoming an influx of foreign visitors, in addition to preparing competition venues, to hold the best-ever Olympics and Paralympics," Tokyo governor Yoichi Masuzoe was quoted telling the committee responsible for the project. Some 56 public and private organizations are on the council.
"I’d like to inform visitors from around the world of the attractions offered by Tokyo and Japan, including food, tradition, culture, and public safety," Masuzoe added.
Tokyo Governor to Learn from Beijing, Hopes to Improve Relations
Newly-elected Tokyo governor Yoichi Masuzoe said he hopes to learn Olympic lessons from Beijing.
Masuzoe made the comments on Wednesday, saying he hoped his efforts to collaborate with China would improve relations between Japan and China.
The AFP reports that Masuzoe said he wants to visit Beijing "as soon as possible" to discuss the 2008 Olympics.
He added that the bilateral relationship with China and Japan is "almost broken."
"I would like to improve it by helping with their environmental problems and also social welfare. I am not a foreign minister, nor prime minister. But at least, as the governor of Tokyo, I can do something."
Gambia National Olympic Committee/Japan Partnership
The Gambian National Olympic Committee received a grant on Tuesday from the Japanese government worth $125,000.
Media reports say the partnership will go toward purchasing sports equipment and developing sport infrastructure in Gambia.
This is the second grant for the GNOC from Japanese officials.
Written by Ed Hula III and Aaron Bauer
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