The dam's opponents, meanwhile, are taking technical and economic pot-shots, pointing out that estimates of the revenue the project will generate for the government have fallen over the years, and questioning whether even now they are realistic.

ECONOMIST: Laos

But the total pot for care is still shrinking as the huge cuts in government funding for councils - it is falling by over a quarter this parliament - means local authorities have been unable to protect the sector entirely.

BBC: Why the elderly care crisis is here to stay

During dinner late one night, while Mr. Toba relaxed over a Japanese hot pot and local liquor, Taiga stomped around the house in basketball warm-ups and two pairs of eyeglasses one for his eyes and a pair of dark sunglasses perched on his forehead, because he thought they were cool.

WSJ: Ruin and Rebirth: After Disaster, Japanese Mayor Plants Seeds for City's Rebirth