We've listed our five most read stories on The Mainichi news site, from top to bottom, that were published between Nov. 23 and Dec. 1. The first story was viewed by 22% of our regular readers. (The Mainichi)

Opinion: Law to revoke residence status over tax arrears irks permanent residents in Japan

OSAKA -- As economic challenges in Japan continue, some are becoming unable to pay social insurance premiums or taxes due to deteriorating health or job circumstances. Amid such a situation, following updates to immigration laws this June, permanent resident foreigners can have their status revoked if in arrears. Full story.

How and why Japan Railways' discount tickets drastically changed

The Mainichi Shimbun answers some common questions readers may have about the significant changes to Japan Railways (JR) group's special discount "Seishun 18 Kippu" tickets and the surrounding controversy. Full story.

How will Japan's health insurance change after Dec. 2 transition to 'My Number' cards?

The Mainichi Shimbun answers common questions readers may have about Japan's full-scale transition to the "My Number" health insurance card system allowing My Number ID cards to function as health insurance cards, and the coinciding discontinuation of the existing ones on Dec. 2. Full story.

Japan father of murdered teen speaks out about killer's parole: 'The wounds never heal'

YOKKAICHI, Mie -- "The man who killed Hiromi is walking free!" With a cry, the father of a 15-year-old girl murdered by a then-18-year-old high school student slammed his head against his car window, unable to contain his emotions. Full story.

Elderly man's fight reveals problems in Japan's adult guardianship system

TOKYO -- A 92-year-old man in Japan who was placed under the care of a guardian due to what was considered dementia waged a legal battle to cancel the guardianship, after finding the system, meant to protect the assets and rights of people with impaired decision-making capacity, fraught with problems. Full story.