Found in the streets of Kyoto is the Kyoto Shimbun, a daily newspaper that embodies the city’s unique blend of history and innovation.
Founded June 9th, 1879, recently achieving its 145th year of publication, it’s a cornerstone of local journalism, serving residents with in-depth news coverage and a glimpse into the heart of Kyoto.
Remarkably, it achieves this feat by printing a staggering 350,000 copies each morning and 130,000 each evening, all while adhering to strict deadlines.
A recent visit to the Kyoto Shimbun’s headquarters offered a glimpse into the workings of the publication. The newsroom was filled with activity as editors meticulously reviewed articles and photos. Over 1,000 images are taken, but only one is selected as the main image for the front page. Reporters tapped away at keyboards, their focus unwavering as they chased a midnight deadline for the morning edition and an 11 a.m. deadline for the evening edition.
Each day, the desk juggles roughly 3,000 potential news stories that are happening domestically and globally. This vast pool is then narrowed down to about 100 to 200 stories that make print.
Midori Dei, a Kyoto Shimbun employee and our tour guide, explained the editorial process. Stories undergo a rigorous cycle of research, fact-checking and editing before reaching print, a dedication to accuracy evident in every step. Once the layout is finished, a physical copy is printed and another round of examining and editing is completed to make any necessary last-minute changes.
After the final edits are incorporated, the pages are pressed and printed. Before the papers are ready to be delivered, a quality check is done to ensure the audience receives the best newspaper possible.
The Kyoto Shimbun’s reach extends beyond the confines of its headquarters. Reporters can be observed venturing out to interview local artisans and experts, gathering firsthand accounts that breathe life into their stories.
The Kyoto Shimbun’s in-depth reporting keeps readers informed about the issues that directly impact their daily lives. Local newspapers like the Kyoto Shimbun are important for many reasons. They take responsibility for relaying local news that might be missed by national news outlets.
In addition, with the rise of the internet, there is a wealth of knowledge, but a pool of misinformation. The Kyoto Shimbun serves as a trusted reliable source, helping readers navigate information overload by providing reliable information.
They also act as historical archives, chronicling the events, people and changes that shape a community over time. They can provide a platform for diverse voices within the community, giving residents a chance to express their opinions and concerns on local issues. Future generations will be able to understand their local heritage thanks to newspapers like the Kyoto Shimbun.
At the end of the tour, Ms. Dei presented printouts of a mock Kyoto Shimbun front page featuring students from SJMC Japan, a gift that brought audible gasps of surprise and delight.
The newspaper highlights the city’s ability to embrace modern advances while cherishing its cultural roots. By reporting on a wide range of topics, from local festivals to science and technology, the Kyoto Shimbun remains a reliable source of information for all generations. It also unites residents and visitors through shared experiences – both joyful celebrations and the challenges of daily life.
