The Japanese government will introduce an electronic system for tourist visa applications in April '20, in time for the Tokyo Olympics, in an effort to help achieve its goal of 40 million inbound visitors by that year, government sources said Sunday. The online system reportedly will first be available to Chinese tourists for single-entry visa applications and then to travelers from other countries (KYODO, 10/14).
As Tokyo "ramps up preparations" to host the 2020 Olympics, a new multi-sport facility has opened in its downtown Shinagawa district, where kids and adults "can try their hand at various sports," from basketball to surfing on artificial waves. In addition to eight types of sports, the family-friendly Sporu Shinagawa Oimachi complex also houses several other attractions (KYODO, 10/12).
Seven senior Kenyan officials will be charged over alleged corruption surrounding the 2016 Olympic Games, the country's chief prosecutor said. Those accused include former Sports Minister Hassan Wario and former Olympic Committee Head Kipchogge Keino, a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist. Chief Prosecutor Noordin Haji said that they "must turn themselves in" by Monday (BBC, 10/13).
