Mobile phones are an evolving worldwide phenomenon. In Japan, where 8 out of 10 people own a mobile phone, the pace of change is especially rapid. New technologies and ideas are continually emerging for using this device to make daily life more convenient.
Shirakami-sanchi (白神山地) is a mountainous expanse of virgin forest which straddles both Akita and Aomori Prefectures. Siebold beech trees comprise a large portion of the forest.