Current Affairs Quiz [2024]

A tax reduction of 40,000 yen is available for the taxpayer and for each dependent family member.

A flat-rate tax reduction will be implemented starting in June 2024. Eligible individuals will receive a total tax cut of 40,000 yen: 30,000 yen for income tax and 10,000 yen for resident tax. In addition, a reduction of 40,000 yen per person will apply to a spouse in the same household and to dependents. For salaried employees, the income tax reduction will begin with the June paycheck, and the resident tax reduction will follow starting in July.

Kobe Suma Sea World

The aquarium that opened in Kobe in June 2024 is Kobe Suma Sea World. It was opened after rebuilding the Kobe Municipal Suma Aqualife Park, which closed in May 2023. It is the only facility in western Japan where orcas are kept and exhibited, and its exhibits themed around “edutainment,” learning through fun, have become a hot topic.

Shinji Ishimaru

Shinji Ishimaru served as the mayor of Akitakata City in Hiroshima Prefecture from August 2020. On May 20, 2024, he announced that he would resign effective June 9, and on May 22 he declared his candidacy for the Tokyo gubernatorial election. While there are high expectations for a mayor who drew nationwide attention to the small local municipality of Akitakata running for governor, his decision to step down after just one term has also drawn criticism, sparking a mix of opinions.

Munetaka Murakami

In the midterm results of fan voting for the 2024 Nippon Professional Baseball All-Star Game, Munetaka Murakami of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows—whose standout performance in the 2023 WBC remains fresh in fans’ memories—ranked first among Central League third basemen. His exceptional hitting and fielding earned strong support from fans.

1,000 yen

The Forest Environment Tax was established to improve forest environments and to support the policies and human resource development needed to carry out that work. Along with the resident tax, 1,000 yen per year is collected as the Forest Environment Tax.

Mt. Fuji Lawson

The so-called “Mt. Fuji Lawson” became highly popular both in Japan and abroad as a spot where you could capture Lawson and Mt. Fuji in a single photo. However, due to a series of problems—such as people running into the road to take pictures and littering in the Lawson parking lot—screens have been installed to block the view and prevent photos from being taken.

10th anniversary

In 2024, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan will celebrate its 10th anniversary, and special commemorative events are planned. In spring, there will be an event themed around magical creatures; in summer, guests can explore inside Hogwarts Castle; and in autumn and winter, events perfect for Halloween and Christmas will be on offer.