The confusion was heightened by a magnitude 5.3 earthquake that hit nearby Chiba Prefecture at 1:42 p.m.

WSJ: Japanese Markets Awaken With Wild Swings

Four public schools in Chiba prefecture, near Tokyo, recently surrendered to the dictates of fashion and authorized miniskirts for the first time.

CNN: A SOCK TO THE SYSTEM

This critique was applied not only to Queens and Long Island but also to places like Milton Keynes or Basildon outside London, and greater Tokyo's Chiba prefecture.

FORBES: New Geographer

At a three-day 3DS tryout event this weekend for consumers held in Chiba Prefecture, a Tokyo suburb, visitors tried 16 games for the 3DS, including new titles from the "Resident Evil" and "Street Fighter" franchises.

WSJ: Nintendo's Chief Defends 3DS

Sharp Corporation will take part in CEATEC JAPAN 2012, the annual comprehensive exhibition showcasing the latest in IT and electronics from October 2 to 6, 2012 at the Makuhari Messe convention center in Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture.

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Hence, he is not the scion of a political dynasty like four of the past five Japanese PMs. When he entered politics to gain a seat in the Chiba Prefecture legislature, he had no pre-existing political organization or, critically, financial base.

FORBES: As Prime Minister, Noda May Offer Something New