TOKYO (TR) – The newspaper industry in Japan appears to be readying itself for the electronic era. Tabloid Daily Sports reported last week that it would begin a special digital newspaper service today.
The sports paper said that most Japanese newspapers rely on advertising for revenue, a contrast to the U.S. model that is based on subscription fees. However, the global wave of readers accessing written publications online is forcing Japanese newspaper companies to make a move before it is too late.
A part of the Kobe Shimbun group, the paper is known for its extensive coverage of the Hanshin Tigers. This new service, in which readers will be charged 1,890 yen per month, coincides with the commencement of spring training activities for all 12 professional ball clubs. The content of the digital edition will duplicate that of the conventional paper.
The paper is offering a one-month trial period that is accessible at this link. Use the following access information. ユーザーID: “dailysports” and パスワード Password – “denshi” (K.N.)