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Asia's real estate booms in urban hubs, attracting investors and driving business expansion, while Southeast Asia sees luxury brands invest in residential projects for the affluent. However, concerns about oversupply and overdevelopment emerge, particularly in Indonesia and China, where ambitious affordable housing projects and a property downturn impact the market.

Thirty years ago, the Aum Shinrikyo cult launched a sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway, killing 14 and injuring over 6,000 in the world's first indiscriminate chemical weapons attack. The perpetrators, disguised as commuters, released the deadly gas during the morning rush hour, causing widespread panic and highlighting the vulnerability of public transportation systems to such attacks.

Fujitsu is breaking from tradition by hiring new employees throughout the year, regardless of graduation status, and offering higher salaries to attract and retain skilled professionals. This move reflects the company's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the technology industry and remaining competitive in the global talent market.

Asian markets were mixed on Wednesday ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, with Japan's Nikkei 225 edging up while Hong Kong's Hang Seng and the Shanghai Composite remained relatively flat. The Fed is expected to hold rates steady, with much attention focused on its forecasts for interest rates, inflation, and the economy.

Land prices in Hokkaido have soared due to a surge in foreign tourists seeking vacation homes and hotels, with Kutchan experiencing the most significant increase, driven by its popularity as a ski resort destination. The influx of tourists has also pushed up commercial land prices in other popular destinations like Kinosaki Hotspring and Osaka's Midosuji street.