Lifestyle

TOKYO (Nikkei)--With compulsory martial arts and dance classes slated to begin at Japanese middle schools in April, a growing number of children are signing up for lessons to learn dance steps and traditional martial arts like judo and karate at fitness clubs and elsewhere.

TOKYO (Kyodo)--The smoking rate hit an all-time low of 19.5 percent in Japan in 2010, down 3.9 percentage points from the preceding year, the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry said Tuesday.

TOKYO (Nikkei)--Companies and sports promotion groups in Tokyo are holding sporting events to help singles find potential mates and help couples improve their relationships.