Euglena, a tiny green microorganism that can feed itself through photosynthesis, has the potential to solve environmental and energy problems as well as address world hunger. It is highly nutritious, and its powder can be added to nutritional supplements, drinks, or cookies.

Biofuel can be produced from euglena without the need for crops such as corn, reducing the dependence on fossil fuels. Euglena is being researched for filtering emissions from power plants that burn fossil fuels and flying planes using biofuel made from euglena oil. The company behind this initiative, founded by Izumo Mitsuru, has also set up an office in Bangladesh to provide euglena-based school meals to local children to improve their nutrition.

The researchers hope that the use of euglena will not only improve people’s health but also bring benefits to the planet itself. The use of euglena in biotechnology is an area where the strength of Japan shines through, as the country has a long history of using microorganisms and fermentation for the production of miso, soy sauce, and sake.

Wood is used to construct traditional Japanese structures. The Five-story Pagoda of Horyuji is one example. The pagoda has stood in Nara for over 1,300 years. Even though the pagoda is made of wood, it has never been seriously damaged by earthquakes or typhoons. It has long been unknown what gives the Pagoda of Horyuji its strength. A Japanese architect points out, “Each of the five roofs swings independently when an earthquake occurs. Then, the central pillar, which runs through the five roofs, absorbs their movement and weakens the swing.”

The pillar and beam joints are somewhat flexible. This makes the pagoda sway like a willow tree. This ancient technology is now used in modern buildings. It was used in the design of Tokyo Skytree.

The pagoda is seen as a representation of Japanese construction methods They are based on the idea of accepting and adjusting to force instead of going against it. Traditional Japanese buildings need repairs from time to time. It is the younger generation that can keep the traditions alive.

A geographer lived on the second planet. The little boy said, “How interesting!” He asked the geographer. “Does your planet have any seas?” The geographer said he didn’t. When the little boy asked about the river, mountains, and deserts, the geographer still said he didn’t know.
“But you’re a geographer!” said the little boy.

“Exactly. I’m a geographer, not an explorer. They explore seas, rivers, mountains, and deserts. I never go out,” the geographer explained.

The third planet belonged to a king.

The little boy yawned. He was tired. The king ordered him not to yawn without his permission. The little boy had nothing to say, so he went away.

The little boy visited several strange planets. But he has not visited Earth yet.

Mt. Fuji is special to many people. Some paint it, and some pray to it. It is a famous symbol of Japan.

The number of climbers increased in the late 1900s. However, many of them left behind plastic bottles and cans on the paths.

My friends and I felt upset about the situation. We decided to clean the paths on Mt. Fuji.

Now, we are busy with our activities. We pick up people’s litter, talk to hikers, and give speeches at schools. Now, Mt. Fuji is getting clean.

Let’s save Mt. Fuji for future generations!

Donna hunted her town to find a Christmas present for her husband, Eric. She bought a gold watch chain at last. It was twenty-two dollars.

Eric returned home, but he quickly stopped. “Eric! Don’t look at me that way. I had my hair cut off and sold it. Because… It’s Christmas. Let’s be happy. I’ve got a nice present for you.”

Donna also received a gift from Eric. She opened it and saw a set of combs with jewels on them. Donna’s tear ran down her face. Then she took out the watch chain, shining beautifully.

“Donna, my dear wife,” Eric said. “I sold my watch to buy your combs.” He smiled at her.