Asahi Shimbun Digital to Launch 'A-stories' Exclusive Series

Asahi Shimbun Company (Representative Director and CEO: Kakuo Sumida) will renew its 'A-stories' series on the Asahi Shimbun Digital edition this spring. The revamped 'Aストーリーズ' will delve into the depths of global and Japanese events and social issues hidden in our daily lives, weaving them into narratives. Emphasizing continuity, the name has been changed to 'Aストーリーズ' using katakana for 'stories.' It will primarily launch every Monday, with a different theme each week. Utilizing videos, photos, and infographics, it aims to deliver an experience that goes beyond mere reading.

Upcoming A-stories Lineup

Who will consent to your surgery? ~ Old age without relatives

Which do you choose, surgery or radiation therapy? Do you wish for life-prolonging treatment? — While medical care is fundamentally based on self-determination, family 'consent' was once emphasized when it was difficult for the individual to make decisions. As the number of people without relatives or those with dementia increases, the situation is changing significantly. (Scheduled for release on April 6)

Cultural Heritage x Digital

Digital data left by a prematurely deceased researcher proved useful in the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which burned down in 2019. Starting with the researcher's journey, we explore hints for connecting cultural heritage to the future with the latest technology. (Scheduled for release on April 13)

iPS Cells ~ 20 Years of Light and Shadow

It has been 20 years since Professor Shinya Yamanaka of Kyoto University created iPS cells, capable of becoming any organ cell, in mice. With continued national support, two regenerative medicine products using iPS cells were approved by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare this year. We will explore the current state of advanced research, considering the challenges to practical application. (Scheduled for release on April 20)

Previously Released A-stories

Protecting those who protect lives ~ The heavy lesson of 3.11

In the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, many people lost their lives trying to help others. Firefighters, police officers, fire department personnel... How can we protect those who protect lives during a disaster? We confront the heavy lessons of 3.11.

Shinobu's 70 Years ~ The Unending Minamata Disease

May 1st marks 70 years since Minamata disease, known as the 'origin of pollution,' was officially confirmed. A woman who suffered damage in her mother's womb and was born with the disease will also turn 70 this year. Through her half-century of life, we examine the ongoing issues.

Ukraine ~ Justice Lost

The invasion of Ukraine has entered its fifth year. A reporter who has covered the conflict for many years, even before the Russian invasion, returns to Ukraine. From the words of people living in a society where many lives have been lost, we ponder what 'justice' means.

Hakuba Inbound Frontline ~ Local Conflict

Hakuba Village in Nagano Prefecture is bustling with inbound tourists. 28 years after the Nagano Olympics, which saw Japan's ski jumping team win gold, there's hope for renewed tourism development, but locals don't want to lose control. We report on the local conflict.

Burned Treasure ~ Protecting Cultural Heritage

In October 2019, Shuri Castle in Okinawa was engulfed in flames. What happened during that year's fire, a 'turning point' for cultural property fire prevention? How can we protect cultural heritage buildings, which are people's 'treasures'? We consider the challenges and countermeasures that emerged.

A-stories is a series that Asahi Shimbun is proud to deliver this spring. Please look forward to the upcoming lineup.