We've listed our five most read stories on The Mainichi news site, from top to bottom, that were published between April 19 and 27. The first story was viewed by 24.3% of our regular readers. (The Mainichi)

From 'creepy' to awesome: 'Old guy rental' service in Japan changes lives

TOKYO -- It's been 13 years since Takanobu Nishimoto started an "old guy rental" service to raise the social status of oft-derided middle-aged men in Japan. Speaking with the Mainichi Shimbun, the 57-year-old emphasized, "Old guys are actually amazing!" Full story.

How did American tourist mistakenly bring gun into Japan despite airport screenings?

An American tourist in his 70s was recently arrested in Japan for possessing a handgun, which he had inadvertently brought with him in his suitcase along with ammunition. Though the case was later dropped, it begs the question: How did the firearm get through security checks at two airports? Full story.

The core of Japan's rice supply problems isn't about surging prices alone

The Japanese government on April 9 announced that it would release another 100,000 tons of stockpiled rice onto the market -- the third such move to combat the recent surge in prices of the staple. Further releases are planned monthly through July. The sharp rise in prices has dealt a blow to our daily lives, but Satoshi Fukutomi, a Mainichi Shimbun reporter who has been monitoring agricultural policies, points out that the issue isn't merely about when rice prices will decrease. So what should consumers be focusing on? Full story.

Golden Week holiday travel aspirations down in Japan amid crowding, high prices: JTB poll

TOKYO -- More people in Japan plan to stay home during the "Golden Week" holiday period this year compared to last year due to rising prices and the desire to avoid crowds, a survey by major travel agency JTB has found. Full story.

Japanese minister says no political message behind MAGA cap photo

TOKYO -- Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa said April 21 that he does not consider the release of a commemorative photo showing him wearing a cap bearing U.S. President's Donald Trump's slogan "Make America Great Again" as having a political message. Full story.