11.   A court spokesman refused to confirm or comment on the reported testimony, as is Japanese custom.

12.   But she exemplifies the Japanese custom of canceling trips, parties or sports events after a calamity.

13.   By Japanese custom, he spoke on condition of anonymity.

14.   Following Japanese custom, the assailant extended a business card at the marble-floored reception area of the exchange before requesting permission to pay his visit.

15.   He has ruffled a few feathers in Japanese soccer circles with an abrasive style that often goes against reserved Japanese customs and traditions.

16.   His shoes are placed neatly in the entryway, in accordance with Japanese custom.

17.   In August, Japanese customs officials found counterfeit U.S. currency aboard another North Korean merchant ship.

18.   In line with Japanese custom, the meeting with the emperor was closed to the press, and no officials were expected to comment on it.

19.   In one leap, a Japanese custom had become proof of culinary barbarism and a brutal assault on New Zealand sensibilities.

20.   Japanese customs officials are also reported cracking down on counterfeit games shirts, sold on the street for one-third the price.