metropolis 1105
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Ring Masters As the weather heats up, the atmosphere in the Metropolis office has become more festive, with an urge to get out and dance! Yoyogi Koen offers the perfect opportunity this June with the Salsa Street Festival—and we carry the inspiration into the culinary world as well in our food section, with great Brazilian flavors. June is also the time to rumble in the name of those in need, as 16 of Tokyo’s top executives take part in Executive Fight Night V to raise money for children with cancer. Plus, we show you how you can adopt a canine friend to share the summer excitement with, and how to start on the path to summer fitness, too.TRANSCRIPT
May 29-Jun 18, 2015 Japan’s Nº1 English Magazinewww.metropolisjapan.com
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EXECUTIVE FIGHT NIGHT VKNOCKS OUT CANCER
RING MASTERSRING MASTERS
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The new Hooters in Shinjuku, by HunterhuterIN FOCUS
As the weather heats up, the atmosphere in the Metropolis office
has become more festive, with an urge to get out and dance!
Yoyogi Koen offers the perfect opportunity this June with the
Salsa Street Festival—and we carry the inspiration into the culi-
nary world as well in our food section, with great Brazilian flavors.
June is also the time to rumble in the name of those in need, as 16
of Tokyo’s top executives take part in Executive Fight Night V to
raise money for children with cancer. Plus, we show you how you
can adopt a canine friend to share the summer excitement with,
and how to start on the path to summer fitness, too.
EDITOR’SLETTER
MAY 29-JUN 11, 2015 • #1105
Reach over 60,000 Metropolis readers. Advertise: [email protected]; http://metropolisjapan.com/advertise
メトロポリスは20年以上に渡り、訪日•関東在住の外国人へ無料で配布している英字総合情報誌です。英語圏の方々に向けた情報発信や宣伝広告の機会を行政機関や日本企業に提供しております。お問い合わせ: 03-4588-2277
Metropolis Magazine @MetropolisTokyo [email protected]
© Copyright 2015 Japan Partnership Inc. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to edit or delete any advertisement without notice.
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Neil Butler EDITORIAL Christopher Bryan Jones (Editor-In-Chief) Martin Leroux (Editor) Momoko Mochizuki
(editorial assistant) Tim Young (Proofreader) CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dan Grunebaum (Entertainment) Don Morton (Movies) C.B. Liddell
(Arts) Samuel Thomas (Fashion) DESIGN Kohji Shiiki (Art Director) Davi Azevedo (Graphic Designer) Erin Hope (Design Intern) WEB Minh
Douangprachanh (Digital Manager) PRODUCTION Helen Langford (Production Assistant) ADVERTISING Akane Ochi, Karl Nakashima, Niki
Kaihara (Sales Managers) Yo Takahashi (Sales Executive) Ai Hosokawa, Nina Ozawa (Sales Assistant) Sherry Zheng, Megan Green (Interns)
ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING Keiko Adachi (Administration Manager) Michiko Anezaki, Jason Taylor (Adminstration/Classifieds)
IT Guilhem Malfre (It/Web Developer)
Photo by By C Bryan Jones Photo by By Samuel Thomas
03
upfront
ANSWERS AT meturl.com/kanacross
K A N A C R O S S
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Aあ
Solution: A B C
C
Down
1. Duck
2. To listen
3. Clear weather
4. Thanks or gratitude
6. The shade
7. Stone or pebble
8. To put away
9. Hole
Across
1. Japanese red bean
3. Grave
5. Training
6. Victim
9. Red
10. Island
11. To throw
12. Lie
LINGOISTEXCUSE ME…Facing conflict is never comfortable, but sometimes it has to be done—
especially when you’re not in the wrong. So instead of keeping quiet
and drinking that cup of hot joe you didn’t order, follow our lead, and
let your voice be heard!
JP Omatase itashimashita. Orenji jūsu desu.
EN Thank you for waiting. Here is your orange juice.
JP Aisu kōhī wo tanomimashita…
EN I ordered ice coffee…
JP Mōshiwake arimasen! Sugu omochi itashimasu.
EN I’m sorry! I will bring it right away.
JP Arigatō gozaimasu.
EN Thank you.
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私達の人生は色々な経験の内容で成り立っています。社会の一員、そして消費者としての経験の全ては私達が見ているもの、読んでいるもの、聞いているもの、そして感じているものによって作られています。 私達の経験豊富なプロフェッショナルのスタッフはコピークリエイション、グラフィックデザイン、SNSとオンラインエンジニアリング、ブランドコンサルティングなど、様々なコンテンツを提供いたします。 メトロポリスクリエイティブは人々を繋ぐ仕事をしています。ご要望にお答えいたします。
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04
JUN 13-20ESNAVISoul-belter Esnavi
makes her first tour of
the Japanese Isles, with
several stops in the Kanto
region on the itinerary.
Jun 13-20, various times,
prices, and venues.
http://www.esnavi.com
TO-DO LIST
zoos3TOPEDITOR’S PICK
JUN 6-7ECO LIFE FAIRCelebrate World Environment Month at Yoyogi Park with food, live
performances, and a market selling local food and goods from Iwate,
Miyagi, Fukushima, and other prefectures devastated by the 2011 Tohoku
earthquake. Jun 6, 11am-5pm; Jun 7, 10am-5pm, free entry. Yoyogi Park.
Harajuku or Meiji-Jingumae. www.ecolifefair.go.jp
JUN 19-29YUKI IDEGUCHIOn one level, painter Yuki Ideguchi’s works
are psychedelic, and his attempt to capture
a world where life and death intertwine
are hallmarks of the style. But behind
the painter’s visions lies a deeper well of
Japanese tradition, including Buddhism and
Shinto. Ideguchi’s new exhibition is titled
"Somewhere hasn't been here will be here"
and represents the fruits of his efforts to
bring traditional Japanese philosophical
and decorative techniques into the world of
contemporary art. Dan Grunebaum
Jun 19-29, 12-7pm (3-9pm on Jun 19, until
5pm on final day). Closed Jun 24. Free.
Minna no Gallery. Hanzomon.
Tel: 03-6268-9658.
http://minnanog.wix.com/minna-eng
JUN 14TOMISATO CITY WATERMELON FESTIVALKick off the summer with Tomisato’s
annual Watermelon Festival, which
includes watermelon tasting, games, and
the chance to buy freshly-picked produce.
Jun 14, 9am-2:30pm, free. Tomisato
center public hall lobby and parking lot,
Chiba Prefecture. Keisei Narita.
20min by bus from station.
Ph
oto
by M
ikk
i Ku
nttu
Edogawa City Natural ZooA small, yet entertaining, zoo with animals such as penguins and monkeys, and a petting zoo. Open 10am-4:30pm (from 9:30am on Sat, Sun & hols), closed Mon. Free. 3-2-1 Kita-Kasai, within Gyosen Park. Nishi-Kasai. Tel: 03-3680-0777. http://edogawa-kankyozaidan.jp/zoo
Nogeyama ZooEstablished in 1951, Nogeyama Zoo boasts around 90 species of animals, with a petting zoo where you can cuddle with mice, guinea pigs, and chicks. Open 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Mon. Free. 63-10 Oimatsu-cho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama. 23-3 Sakuragaokacho, Shibuya-ku. Sakuragicho. Tel: 045-231-1307. www2.nogeyama-zoo.org/english
Ueno ZooThe oldest zoo in Japan is home to 2,600 animals including the ever-popular pandas. Open 9:30am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥200-600. Ueno Park.
Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-5171. www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno
JUN 6IKUSA SAMURAI BATTLE: WOW WOAH WAR! BE A SAMURAI!!Make international friends and learn the Japanese art
of Bushido by engaging in a samurai battle! Jun 6, 2pm,
¥1,000 (child)/ ¥1,500 (adult). Price includes all necessary
equipment. Yoyogi Park. Harajuku or Meiji-Jingūmae.
http://j.mp/beasamurai2015
JUN 20-21TERO SAARINEN COMPANY “MORPHED”A band of eight men seduce, challenge, demand, and swagger in Tero Saarinen
Company’s new production, with music that ranges from the brutally aggressive
to the meditatively soft and minimalistic by Esa-Pekka Salonen. Jun 20-21, 3pm,
3,500-5,000. Sainokuni Saitama Arts Theater. Yonohonmachi.
Tel: 0570-064-939. www.saf.or.jp/en/stages/detail/2333
05
feature
If you feel like your life is missing some spice,
you’re in luck, because a visit to Salsa Street
2015 in Yoyogi Park is sure to add just that.
Taking place on June 20 and 21, this week-
end is jam-packed with everything salsa—
from dance and music to food.
Some cultural background … “salsa,” in
Spanish, means “sauce,” and originates from
sal, the Latin word for salt. “Salad,” “salami,”
and “sausage” also have their origins in this
word, including “salary,” which stems from the
ancient Roman practice of paying workers’
wages with salt.
Just as any type of sauce is made by mixing
together different ingredients, salsa is a mix
of different styles of music, and this eclectic
mashup is exactly what Salsa Street is about—
as you’ll no doubt leave with a taste of different
Caribbean and Latin American cultures. Here’s
what you can expect from the festival …
FOOD AND DRINK Munch on tacos and wash them down with some
Caribbean and Latin American beer, a mojito,
or caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail made by
mixing cachaça, a hard liquor made from sugar
cane, with sugar and lime. You can also enjoy
other tropical cocktails, along with rum, tequila,
and even cigars.
MUSIC AND DANCEOf course, salsa music will be playing all day,
and if you’re worried your moves aren’t up to
par, don’t … salsa dance lessons will be offered!
Will take place rain or shine. Jun 20, 10am-
8pm; Jun 21, 10am-7pm, free entry. Keyaki
Street, Yoyogi Park. Nearest station: Hara-
juku, Yoyogi Kōen, or Meiji Jingūmae. www.
guavaberry.jp/salsastreet
SALSA!SALSA!SALSA! For those who want to brush up on their
salsa dancing skills before the festival,
here are a few spots where you can dance
the night away!
EL CAFE LATINOWith drinks ¥500-1,200, El Cafe Latino
offers salsa, merengue, and bachata les-
sons, taught by professional dancers. Some
lessons are offered for free and others cost
¥2,500. Open Tue-Thu and Sun, 6pm-12am;
Fri and Sat, 6pm-5am. Closed Mon. An ad-
mission fee of ¥1,500 (includes one drink)
will be charged on Fri and Sat. 1F WIN Rop-
pongi, 3-15-24 Roppongi, Minato-ku.
Tel: 03-3402-8989.
www.elcafelatino.com/?lang=en
SALSA CARIBELessons are offered every day for ¥1,000,
with beginner lessons available free of
charge on Wed, Fri and Sat. Open Sun-Thu,
6pm-1am; Fri, and Sat, 6pm-5am. Admis-
sion fee ¥1,200 Sun-Thu, ¥1,500 Fri and
Sat, both with one drink. Reine 2F, 5-3-4
Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3746-0244.
www.salsacaribe.jp
PARAISOLessons such as LA-style salsa (¥2,000 with
one drink) offered daily, with weekly free
lessons. Open Sun-Thu, 6pm-2am; Fri-Sat,
6pm-am. B1 Kobayashi Bldg., 7-10-3 Rop-
pongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-106-0032.
www.paraiso-bar.com
SALSA!SALSA!SALSA!
Yoyogi Park cranks up the heat for Salsa
Street 2015
06
cover story
WANT TO BE THERE?TICKETS STILL [email protected]
www.executivefightnight.com
TICKETS
TAKING THE FIGHT TO CHILDREN’S CANCER
Executive Fight Night boxers explain what drives them
BY C BRYAN JONES
We’re often urged to fight for a good
cause, but rarely is the imperative so
literal. On July 19, sixteen incredible
men and women will take to the ring
at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo as part of the Tony
Evans and deVere Group Executive Fight Night
V to raise money for Shine On! Kids.
What moves these individuals to commit
to the fight, to the rigorous process of train-
ing, to the inevitable injuries? Metropolis sat
down with four of the fighters to find out what
drives them.
Chad Lafferty is a native of Oklahoma who
works as an associate director in the contract
division at Robert Walters Japan. Jacqueline
Alexander is a professional freelance makeup
artist, an American who graduated first in her
class at The London School of Beauty and
Makeup. Nick Rees, who arrived from the
U.K. more than a decade ago, manages an
IT recruitment team at Morgan McKinley. And
Gregor Zetsche, a Germany native, is a gen-
eral manager at Mercedes-Benz Research &
Development Japan.
This diversity comes together for a com-
mon goal under the guidance of EFN and the
trainers at Club 360. Asking why they chose to
take part in the event reveals common threads:
a competitive nature; a desire to help children
suffering from serious illnesses; and a love of
physical challenges.
“I felt like this would be a great challenge
for me to take on,” says Zetsche. “You don’t
often have the chance to help others by getting
punched in the face. I have high regard for what
Shine On! Kids is doing, and I’m glad I can help
out. My fight lasts six minutes. These kids have
to fight every day.”
The driving force is the same for Rees. “It’s
those amazing kids I will be thinking of. A young
lad in Shizuoka painted me a special picture,
and I will be fighting for this little angel on the
night. He is seriously ill and will be on my mind.”
EFN is more than just a charity event. At the
same time that it gives new hope to a child with
cancer, it’s also a program that changes the
lives of the fighters through 12 weeks of gruel-
ing preparation.
“Training for this fight has been an intense
ride,” explains Alexander, who is the wife of
fellow EFN fighter John “The Butcher” Trollope.
“These next few weeks leading up to the ‘Big
Dance’ are going to shed more blood, sweat,
and dedication than I think any of us have en-
dured before.”
Lafferty, who has done FIT and 24-hour
charity runs the past couple of years, found
EFN to be even more demanding than expect-
ed. “The change to boxing from other sports
was pretty jarring. I was in good shape, but not
boxing shape. The intensity of the training was
surprising.”
Making it to June 19 requires the kind of de-
termination that has put all of the participants
at the top of their business game. “Athletics
is not my forte,” confesses Zetsche. “I know
how to prepare for an important presentation
or an exam, not for a boxing fight. But I have
come to realize that, in fact, all three are quite
comparable.”
Another challenge that the fighters face is
staying free of injury. The training is intense
and the timeline short. “I have actually injured
my left arm slightly, and have been training with
one arm to err on the side of caution; but giving
up is not an option,” says Rees.
One thing the four all agree on is that the
personal rewards are considerable, and the
health benefits outweigh the occasional cut or
bruise. Lafferty proclaims, “I’m in better shape
than I’ve been in since high school—arguably
ever.” And Rees lauds trainer Jan Kazuba, who
has been coaching the IT manager for two
years now, saying “I’m a fitter and better per-
son for it.”
Fast forward to the big night. In the cen-
ter of the Grand Hyatt Tokyo Ballroom sits a
boxing ring. Pledging for the fighters, a raffle,
tables covered with succulent food prepared by
world-class chefs, and special entertainment
set the celebratory atmosphere as this year’s
roster of 16 share the results of their hard work.
One will leave as the champion, but all are win-
ners—including the children.
“At the end of the day, there are a bunch
of kids counting on you,” Lafferty reminds us
when considering that he might not hoist the
belt. “That’s the heartbreaking thing behind all
this, and the reason it’s such a great event. Win
or lose, Shine On! Kids wins—and that’s more
important than my pride!”
Friday, June 19 6:30pm. Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Read Gregor’s full interview at
http://meturl.com/efnv-gregor
Read Chad’s full interview at
http://meturl.com/efnv-chad
Read Jacqueline’s full interview at
http://meturl.com/efnv-jackie
Read Nick’s full interview at
http://meturl.com/efnv-nick
07
Brazil has bestowed unto the world many
of its art forms. However, very few en-
capsulate Brazilian culture and history
as fully as capoeira does. The Afro-Bra-
zilian martial art fuses acrobatics, dance, and
percussive music performance to create an
activity unlike any other.
“Capoeira is an amazing experience,” says
Mestre Sucuri, instructor at Capoeira Zoador
Academy, one of Tokyo’s leading capoeira
schools; and has been teaching the
art internationally for 26 years.
“For me, it’s very spiritual as
much as it is philosophical
and physical. It draws
on every aspect of the
human experience.”
Capoeira is often
described as many
things: a game; a
dance; a martial art;
or even a music genre.
But at its core, capoeira
is its own entity encom-
passing all its physical and
musical elements. In addition to
keeping fit, it also allows for creative
expression, rejuvenation, and stress relief. And
because it’s practiced commonly in a group or
circle, the sense of community allows partici-
pants to connect and build relationships.
“Everything that people want to do, like
yoga, hip-hop, karate … everything is to ful-
fill your life, something lacking, be it confi-
dence, awareness, pride,” says Mestre Sucuri.
“Capoeira for me is very holistic: it’s yoga,
CAPOEIRAPracticing Brazil’s martial art in Tokyo
BY MUBITA MAMBWE
kickboxing, karate, samba, salsa—everything
rolled into one thing.”
The music is also integral to capoeira—in
the same way it is to general dances. Capoeira
music has its basis in Afro-Brazilian music, and
is heavily percussive and vocal. The rhythms
vary and evolve with the vibe of the circle or
practitioners.
“Capoeira music is the sound of the energy
we create, which we call axé. It’s really power-
ful when you feel it. It’s almost chaotic,
tribal—but organized. Some peo-
ple say it’s akin to Indian mu-
sic, but it’s very African in
origin. And the rhythms
push people in differ-
ent ways.”
The vibrant ex-
perience capoeira
provides has led to
its increasing promi-
nence internationally.
I t ’s been dispersed
outside of Brazil since
the 1970s and has recently
been gaining exposure in pop-
ular culture, being utilized in film and
video games.
Japan’s also been catching on to the art,
with schools set up everywhere from Tokyo,
Yokohama, and Saitama, to more distant areas
such as Sapporo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The
reason, says Mestre Sucuri, is that it provides
a release that’s much needed here—especially
in Tokyo.
“It’s a very stressful city; no one works as
hard as people in Tokyo,” he affirms. “When
you kick that pad or you’re doing Afro-Brazil-
ian dance and the sweat’s running down your
face—that’s negative energy being cleansed
from your body.
“There’s a very spiritual side we focus on
[at Zoador]—not religious, but philosophical.
Something to get people to go …” he states,
sighing with relief.
Mestre Sucuri sees people from all walks of
life enter the sunny interior of Zoador’s school
in Magome. The students range from kids as
young as three to grown-ups around 50 years
old, and of all nationalities. But united through
capoeira, the students are able to experience
the family feeling predominant in Latin cul-
ture—yet another aspect of the art.
“I run it like a very grassroots community
center,” explains Mestre Sucuri, who mentions
that children are in on weekends and have fun,
while adults love the energy. “A lot of the for-
eigners who come here get caught up in that
crazy, single vibe here in Japan, and they want
a little bit of groundedness; they want to be
able to be around that family feeling once in
a while.”
Because capoeira is multi-faceted, there’s
a place for everyone—regardless of physi-
cal or musical ability. The only requirement
is patience.
“If you believe in yourself half as much as I
believe in the people that walk in [through] the
door, then you’ll be fine. You’ve just got to say,
I’m not going to be overwhelmed, I’m going to
take one day at a time, one class at a time, and
move toward a positive result.”
Capoeira Zoador Academy
2-4-1 Kitamagome, Ota-ku. Tel: 03-3779-
0263. Nearest stn: Magome or Ebaramachi.
Classes also held at Studio Worcle in Hara-
juku. B1 Biz Harajuku, 3-53-2 Sendagaya,
Shibuya-ku. www.capoeira.jp
feature
IT DRAWS ON EVERY ASPECT OF THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE.”
08
food&drink
Fans of Koikeya’s mikan-flavored potato chips will be
thrilled to find out about the snack manufacturer’s two
new fruity options: peach and banana. Although not
everyone will appreciate adventurous flavors, these
chips are worth a try if simply for that only-in-Japan
factor. Consider them dessert chips. Koikeya suggests
they be eaten with breakfast, and, who knows, you
might soon be skipping your morning cereal or toast for
some peach and banana potato crunch! Now available
in convenience stores nationwide; going on sale in
supermarkets nationwide June 1.
Ice Monster’s mammoth shaved-ice concoctions
have made a name for the cold confectionery
chain in its native Taiwan—and now they’re
branching out with their first Japanese location
in Omotesando. Opened in April, Ice Monster
serves up several varieties of its monstrous
shaved ice, from the fruity Pineapple Sensation
and Mango Sensation, accompanied by slices of
their respective fruits, to the Coffee Sensation
with coffee jelly, Bubble Milk Tea Sensation with
tapioca bubbles and panna cotta, and Oolong
Tea Sensation with brown sugar jelly and Oolong
ice cream. No better way to cool off!
6-3-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Meiji-jingumae.
http://ice-monster.co.jp
California-born U.S. coffee chain The Coffee
Bean & Tea Leaf opens its first Japanese
branch in Nihonbashi. The Coffee Bean boasts
a large selection of coffee brewed with beans
sourced directly from family farms and estates,
as well as a wide variety of teas ranging from
the standard, such as English Breakfast and
Earl Grey, to the exotic, such as Moroccan
Mint, African Sunrise, Swedish Berries,
and Lung Ching. Their Japan exclusive is
the Matcha Cappuccino, which infuses the
Italian treat with green tea zest. Also try their
delectable muffins and cookies for a special
coffee break. 1-3-13 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku.
Nihonbashi. www.coffeebean.co.jp
If wafers of the strawberry kind are too sweet for your palate,
reach for the paler corner of the berry basket and grab a box of
the new Raspberry Kit-Kats. With a slightly tart flavor, you can
give yourself a break without the sugary surge (well, at least on
the flavor front). With three mini packs per box, you can share
with friends, tempt your colleagues, or treat yourself to a snack-
time triple. Available in stores nationwide.
A new addition to the coconut-
water craze that has taken over
Japan is the limited-edition Kirin
Hyōketsu Coconut Water, a
vodka-based beverage containing
10 percent of the tropical juice
that’s known for its hydrating
properties. A refreshing alcoholic
beverage is exactly what’s needed
to distract from the overpowering
Tokyo heat—and drinkers can see
what the coco craze is all about
while they’re at it. Available in
stores nationwide.
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food&drink
J apanese food in an atmospheric Japanese
setting is what Mifune in Roppongi offers—
and not just any setting, but one themed
around the restaurant’s namesake, the late
Japanese film star Toshirō Mifune. If you’re a fan,
you’ll be able to appreciate various details like
the actor’s family crest hung on the walls. And
even if you’re not, you’ll no doubt find the restau-
rant’s interior, made to look like a dōjō (training
hall), pretty neat.
In true Japanese style, shoes must be re-
moved upon entry—so make sure you aren’t
wearing holey socks! Seating is available at the
counter, at horigotatsu-style tables (sunken ar-
eas underneath the tables provide plenty of leg-
room), and in private rooms ideal for entertaining
guests. The menu spans a wide range of items,
including sashimi and nabe (hotpots), with an
impressive selection of local sake from through-
out Japan (the Dassai 50 Junmai Daiginjō is their
most popular). A course menu is also available,
with items ranging in price from ¥5,000 to 8,000.
BY MOMOKO MOCHIZUKI
Nabe can be ordered in portions for two or
more people, and selections include a spicy
jjigae, sukiyaki, a chicken broth-based mizutaki,
and a chōju, or “long life” nabe containing various
herbs and spices, including Chinese wolfber-
ries. The chōju nabe’s broth is a deep red, and is
made with bonito stock infused with dried shrimp
and shiitake, and contains sesame, spring on-
ions, whole dates, and rāyu, or chili oil, for a little
kick. Slices of pork are cooked in the broth, and
eaten wrapped around vegetables and dipped
in sesame sauce. Make sure to leave some space
for the shime—a choice of ramen noodles or rice
added to the broth containing all the goodness
from the meat.
The hakozushi, or “boxed sushi” (¥1,500),
available at dinner contains seafood such as
tuna, shrimp, and salmon roe along with egg,
shiitake mushrooms, and snow peas on a bed
of vinegared rice. The dish is enjoyed with kuzu
shōyu, or soy sauce thickened with kuzu starch.
Lunchtime options (¥900-1,200 on week-
days) include shōgayaki, or ginger-fried pork;
sukiyaki; and hirekatsu, or fried pork fillet cut-
lets. When we visited, the sakana teishoku (fish
set) of the week was grilled saba, or mackerel
simply seasoned with salt, with a side of ton-
jiru (miso soup with pork and vegetables), rice,
and small dishes which included tofu and hijiki
seaweed. The mackerel was soft and juicy—the
perfect accompaniment to the rice. The type of
fish changes weekly, so each visit can offer a
chance to savor new tastes.
At Mifune, you can enjoy great food in a great
space. If you’re looking for a place to impress
guests, or to upgrade your usual izakaya experi-
ence, this is the place to do it!
Open 11:30am-2pm and 5-11:30pm. Closed Sun.
7-18-7 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Roppongi. Tel:
03-6804-5548. http://mifune-project.com/en
MIFUNE
RESTAURANT ¥¥ JP/EN Non-smoking only during lunch
Photos by By C Bryan Jones
10
W hen it comes to Brazilian food, I can be
very picky about quality and service.
After the 2014 World Cup, Brazilian
barbecues achieved great success in
Japan—and they're still on the rise. In particular,
Japan seems to love Brazilian buffet courses.
Like many foreigners, I’m always
craving a taste of my home
country. In my four years in
Japan, I’ve made many
nos ta lg ia - induced
discoveries of many
kinds of Brazilian
restaurants.
In Tokyo, there
are at least six tra-
ditional restaurants
in dif ferent areas,
all varying in price.
Churrasco, a traditional
barbecue, is probably Bra-
zil’s most famous food inter-
nationally.
After the World Cup, Japanese media
suddenly all were talking about Brazilian culture
and music, and especially Brazilian barbecue—
a word that derives from the Portuguese “bar-
bacoa,” the grill on which meat is cooked.
The Barbacoa Churrascaria was arguably
one of the most-covered restaurants during
the World Cup “Brazil Boom.” The restaurant
has more than seven branches in Brazil, six in
Japan, and even one in Italy.
The Brazilian vinaigrette is a refreshing tomato
slaw utilizing simple ingredients. Tossing and
chilling it with cooked brown rice makes for
a filling yet healthy salad! Try other kinds of
greens, such as beans or cucumbers, or substi-
tute grains with brown rice, if desired.
Servings: 4
Cooking time: 50 min (active 20 min)
• 1 large ripe tomato
• 1 medium onion
• 2 green peppers
• 1/2 cup corn
• 1/2 cup chopped coriander or parsley
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 3 tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbs white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 pinches white pepper
• 1 pinch sugar
DIRECTIONS1. Chop tomato, onion, and green peppers.
2. Combine and mix olive oil, vinegar, lemon
juice, salt, white pepper, and sugar in small
bowl.
3. Add corn, brown rice, and chopped corian-
der to the tomato batch.
4. Add olive oil mixture to the vegetables and
brown rice, and toss. Chill in fridge for 30 min
(minimum) to overnight.
BROWN RICE SALAD WITH BRAZILIAN VINAIGRETTE RECIPE AND PHOTO BY RIEKO SUZUKI
RECIPE
Rieko Suzuki
Rieko blogs bilingual recipes at
http://meturl.com/ruby
Usually, traditional Brazilian restaurants
offer the rodízio—an all-you-can-eat course.
Those seeking an authentic Brazilian meal will
get the most out of this.
This course comes with a huge salad buf-
fet, some tropical fruit, and desserts (which
are good for vegetarians), and also includes
their famous feijoada (black bean stew with
pork, or other meat, and vegetables, served
on rice). The rodízio comes with different cuts
of meat cooked on skewers, which are then
finally sliced right there at the table. This allows
guests to tell the waiter exactly how they like
their meat cooked.
The staff are welcoming; some can speak
English and even Portuguese. The
all-you-can-eat course’s price
varies with the time of day.
I would recommend a
visit during lunchtime
on weekdays, when
the entire course—
including the salad
bar, desser t buf-
fet, drink bar, and
churrasco—can all
be had for ¥3,600
plus tax.
A dinner course at
Barbacoa will cost ¥5,400,
and comes with the churrasco
plus salad bar (omitting the drink
bar and dessert buffet).
So far, Barbacoa gave me the best Brazilian
dining experience outside of my hometown,
serving plenty of Brazil’s comfort food.
Because some of the branches are rather
busy on weekends, it’s always better to make
reservations at least one week in advance.
5F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6 -10-1
Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-5413-3663.
Roppongi. www.barbacoa.jp
PHOTOS AND TEXT BY DAVI AZEVEDO
TASTE OF BRAZIL
RESTAURANT ¥¥¥ JP/EN
11
6-1-6 Roppongi, Minato-ku, TokyoTel: 03-5413-3689http://carat-roppongi.comOpen 24 hoursLunchtime: 11am~3pm
Hibiya Line
Roppongi
Ōedo Line
Roppongi
Roppongi Crossing
Family Mart
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Post Office
Imoaraizaka
PoliceStation
Let’s Eat Crab!ENJOY DELICIOUS CRAB, CASUALLY.CARAT has the concept of allowing customers to enjoy eating crab, casually. The high quality crabs come directly from Rausu, Hokkaido. The restaurant is open 24/365, so please come to enjoy a nice dinner at the bar or in the café, or close out your day with some noodles!
1 DISH FROM ¥7801 DRINK FROM ¥500
COURSES FROM ¥4,000
NEW OPEN!
A tavern with a market-like atmosphere, filled with fresh fish and delicious cuisine.
Enjoy crabs shipped directly from Rausu, Hokkaido, and many other fresh fish, meat,
and many other delicacies from all over Japan—all at a reasonable price.
Have great times with great food!
DRINKS AND FOOD FROM ¥399
Nihon Sengyo Kokakurui Dokokai | 1F-3F 1-22-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-kuTel: 03-5287-2568 | Open 24/365 days
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COURSE MENU FROM
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12
city life
Heyde Montague, an Animal Walk Tokyo mem-
ber. “But not one of us was able to find informa-
tion in English on how to do so without adopting
or fostering.”
The volunteers involved then decided they
could help animals by helping to close the gap
between Japanese-run shelters and Tokyo’s
English-speaking community, and came up with
the idea of fundraising walks with shelter dogs.
The first Sanpo in the Park event took place
following the 2011 earthquake, in sup-
port of rescue efforts for
animal victims in Tohoku.
Sanpo in the Park 2015
This year’s Sanpo event,
held on June 7, promises
plenty of animal interac-
tion and entertainment.
Following three walks
among cuddly, rescued
dogs, attendees will be treated to some
hula dancing and live musical perfor-
mances, as well as workshops on training dogs
and a chance to make toys for donation to shel-
ters.
The beneficiaries this year are ALMA (Ani-
mal Life Matters Association) and Dog Shelter.
ALMA is an organization that operates the
ALMA Tokyo Tierheim shelter in Katsushika-
ku, and adopt-out over 15 animals monthly, on
average. Dog Shelter rescues soon-to-be-eu-
thanized dogs from government-run pounds,
provides dogs with check-ups and vaccinations
where necessary, and assesses families to see
if they match well with their pup of choice.
Funds are split between ALMA, who will use
the donations raised for general operations of
their shelter, such as food and medical costs,
and Dog Shelter, who will use proceeds to care
for their senior dogs, which especially have dif-
ficulty finding adoptive families.
Why adopt?
Speaking of Japan’s pet shop industry, Maho
Cavalier, another Animal Walk Tokyo member,
explains that Japan’s pet stores regard and mar-
ket animals as commodities, leading to impul-
sive buys and animals being seen as disposable.
“People should know that pet ownership en-
tails serious financial and mental commitment.
There are people who impulsively buy animals
and the pet stores are the places that satisfy
such impulses. Once a pet becomes a burden
to the families, they easily surrender them.”
She adds that many of the animals in the pounds
are brought in by their owners, without looking
at alternatives.
Regarding adoption, fellow Animal Walk To-
kyo member Katrina Larsen states, “By adopt-
ing from a shelter, you can save a life and will not
be supporting puppy factories or
unscrupulous breeders.” Larsen
continues that many animals
from shelters are house-trained,
socialized, spayed or neutered,
with all their medical records up-
to-date, and are patiently wait-
ing for forever homes. “[ALMA
or Dog Shelter] staff will carefully
ensure that you and your buddy
are a good fit before adopting out.
“Finally, you will find unconditional love!”
SANPO IN THE PARK
Sanpo in the Park
Jun 7, 9:30am. Yoyogi
Park, by the water
fountains toward the lake.
¥1,500
www.animalwalktokyo.org
ALMA
www.alma.or.jp
Dog Shelter
http://dogshelter.jp
Walking the good walkBY MARTIN LEROUX
Families strolling with their dogs and play-
ing fetch is an everyday sight in Yoyogi
Park. Once a year, the park is instead filled
with wagging tails belonging to dogs from
shelters around Japan, all eager to take walks
with people and potential companions at the
annual Sanpo in the Park adoption event.
Organized by animal fundraising organiza-
tion Animal Walk Tokyo, Sanpo in the Park gives
people and shelter animals a chance to interact
with one another, and lets guests learn about
adoption choices available in Japan. The event,
typically held on a Sunday, includes a relaxing
walk around the park, along with live entertain-
ment, snacks, and a chance to mingle.
Meanwhile, the money raised goes toward
supporting the efforts of local shelters to house
and care for their animals. 2014’s Sanpo in the
Park raised ¥230,000 in benefit of two local
shelters. The event also raises awareness of
animal welfare-related issues in Japan.
About Sanpo in the Park
“Sanpo in the Park was started in 2010 by a
group of about 10 people who each had a pas-
sion for helping animals in Tokyo,” says Brandy
Ph
oto
s by A
nim
al W
alk T
ok
yo
13
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14
As of 2014, research conducted by the Japa-
nese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare
showed that 46,000 children were living
in orphanages, foster homes, and other
such institutions throughout the country. Of the
28,831 children in orphanages, more than half
had been subjected to physical, sexual, or emo-
tional abuse, or neglect—before being taken in.
The repercussions of these statistics extend
far beyond the children’s lives in the homes, as
expectations are continually lowered, and per-
spectives narrowed. What the children often
lack is the continual mentoring and encourage-
ment needed to see them through high school,
university, and into a decent-paying job. With
some orphanages housing over 100 children, the
staff-to-child ratio is often unsatisfactory, and the
children do not receive consistent, one-on-one
adult mentorship.
The non-profit organization Living Dreams
provides these children with the support they
need to discover their passion and have the moti-
vation and self-confidence to succeed. The orga-
nization runs programs such as Designing Artist
Academy (DAA), a summer arts day camp, and
Digital Native Program, which aims to provide
children with better access to technology. Living
Dreams also provides career aptitude tests to
see what the children’s strengths are, and to help
them focus on career possibilities.
Started in 2006 by Tokyo International
School founder Patrick Newell, Living Dreams
has set up computer labs in several of the homes
where children receive training with software,
and can utilize the internet to gain access to a
wider world. Michael Clemons, Living Dreams’
Director of Partnerships, ex-
plains, “the use of the laptops
and access to the internet al-
lows the children to partici-
pate in 21st-century learning,”
through which they are able to gain “the skills of
communication, collaboration, and seeing the
world in a more holistic way.”
At the recent Living Dreams “Sharing and
Caring” Gala and Fun-Raiser, held on May 15 in
Ebisu, Hayakawa-san, director of the children’s
home Kiyose Kodomo no Ie, spoke about the
biggest challenge facing the children, which is
that they must leave at the age of 18. Michael
explains how one of Living Dreams’ goals “is to
see [the children] employed and self-sufficient”
when that time comes. “Whether college-bound
or employment-bound,” he says, “it is quite nec-
essary for Japan, in this shrinking society, to see
all adults ‘firing on all cylinders’ when it comes
to employment and the economy.”
The children at the homes, Michael says, are
“selfless.” He explains, “I think children natu-
rally are self-absorbed, but the kids in these
homes—perhaps due to their experiences—ask
for very little and appreciate what comes their
way.” Lois Kawashima, Coordinator at Living
Dreams who has been involved with DAA since
its inception, feels she has succeeded in influ-
encing a positive change in the children’s lives
“when [she sees] their faces at the end of camp.”
What she hopes Living Dreams achieves is to
“put each child in a group/foster home on an
equal footing with children living in a secure
family environment.”
The Gala proved Living Dreams is already
making this happen. A young woman who grew
up in a children’s home explained she was now
working as a designer at a cosmetics company
after attending a vocational design school with
the support of the organization.
The goal of the night was
to raise ¥10,000,000, which
will be used to purchase 350
computers for those living in
the children’s homes of Tokyo
and the Tohoku region. The ultimate goal is to
provide a one-to-one computer-to-child ratio
in the homes in order to increase their digital
training, and additional donations are always
welcome to help reach this goal. After all, as
Michael joked at the Gala, “money does buy
happiness … if you spend it on other people.”
Building digital literacy for Japan’s orphans and foster children
BY MOMOKO MOCHIZUKI
FOSTERING DREAMS
Ph
oto
Co
urte
sy of Liv
ing
Dre
am
s
Michael Clemons, Living Dreams’ Director of Partnerships
city life
To donate, get involved, or learn more about Living Dreams, visit www.livingdreams.jp.
15
fashion fix BY SAMUEL THOMAS, FASHION EDITOR
ON POINTOne of the most important com-
petitions in Japanese fashion is
actually far from its own shores,
in the form of Italy’s International
Talent Support (ITS) award. Each
year, this competition functions
as a means of assessing the cur-
rent crop of young Japanese de-
signers to find out who has the
potential to reach a global audi-
ence. And, as ever, the fashion
scene—and furthermore Japan
itself—is well represented, with
five finalists. Key among them is
Yuko Koike, a graduate of Esmod
Japan’s A.M.I / Accessing Mode
Identity program, who is nominated in both the fashion and artwork divi-
sions. The nomination marks this young designer’s brand, Koike, as one
you are likely to be hearing about in the future. Elsewhere, alternative
fashion school Coconogacco continues to dominate the competition
as two of their students, Hiroki Kataoka and Higashi Nobuhiro, join the
school’s litany of graduates that shine internationally above their peers
from altogether more traditional institutions.
You will have to wait until early July to see who comes out on top, but
at the very least it serves to prove—if proof is needed—that Japan is as
relevant as ever on the world fashion stage.
SHOPPING STRATEGYIn some of the biggest vintage-fashion
news in quite some time, Spank!, the hu-
morously-named Koenji vintage shop-
ping destination, is leaving its original
location and taking a short sideways
step to Nakano Broadway north of Na-
kano Station. Largely credited with start-
ing the whole pastel-heavy Fairy-kei
boom back in the 2000s, Spank! also
put Koenji on the shopping map for a
whole generation. The announcement,
delivered in typical low-key style by owner and style icon Tavuchi, was
greeted with incredulity online that only served to highlight just what an
institution the 1980s-heavy hub of kawaii culture has become—a feat
altogether more unlikely when you consider the shop never sold any
BEYOND COOL?
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Not to sound like a broken record, but, even in the ever-changing world of
Japanese fashion, sometimes a trend really does have staying power. In the
case of the sheer over layers you should have spotted being worn by fashion
fans across the city, this has been one of the most enduring and extreme
trends seen in quite some time. While some thought this would die out on the
backstreets of Harajuku, if anything the trend appears to be on the rise in the
mainstream. And at the extreme end of the spectrum, as exhibited by today’s
wearer of cult brand Dario, the floaty outer layers are only getting bigger and
bigger.
new clothes as such, only remade and vintage fashion. Indeed, it’s that
last point that is the most important. This was one of the first vintage
shops that, along with its Koenji sister, the now defunct Cult Party, was
credited with taking entirely vintage stock and, rather than selling it in its
original context, repackaging it and to create something altogether new.
The sight of foreign fashion fans making the pilgrimage to Spank! to buy
vintage clothes they could have bought at thrift stores back home is a
true testament to the power of Tokyo fashion, and it will be interesting
to see if the iconic shop is capable of repeating this feat over in Nakano.
The new location is on the fourth floor of Nakano Broadway and is
open now … just follow the pastel-clad acolytes.
H ave you noticed that fashion isn’t “cool” anymore? And I’m not talk-
ing about the ironically-dated—or otherwise self-deprecating—
waves of fashion responsible for oversized and unnecessary lens-
less glasses. Rather, I mean linguistically. I, for one, don’t remember
the last time I was told I look kakkoii or even kūru. Instead, the charge
laid at my door is now one of kawaii, even as my years advance and my
wardrobe could easily be shared with a ninja in mourning. The time when
I knew the tide had well and truly turned was at the rockstar-friendly Royal
Flash in Harajuku, where a salesperson fruitlessly tried to push me in the
direction of a black t-shirt with a grotesque skull print. His pitch? That it
was very kawaii.
STREET FOCUS
16
FASHION CALENDAR CHECK METROPOLISJAPAN.COM FOR THE LATEST FASHION CALENDAR.
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Get In Tune with MeeWee DinkeeG ood fashion rarely springs out of nowhere.
It usually arrives in the wake of another
cultural movement, such as the music of
punk giving birth to Vivienne Westwood,
or shōjo manga easing the way for gothic Lolita
fashion. But what happens when you try and
create everything all at once?
Fashion brand MeeWee Dinkee is the brain-
child of avant-garde designer and socialite
Tonico, edgy artist Aruta Soup, and anarchic
musical engineers Maywa Denki, from which
the brand takes its peculiar name. The cultur-
al brew is a curious one, and deliberately so.
Tonico makes dollesque proportions that are as
cute as they are disconcerting, Aruta Soup adds
in uncompromising, and occasionally outright
offensive graphics, and Maywa Denki throws in
a discordant musical performance element—the
key to their fashion presentations and shows.
This season is no different, and finds the trio
putting on a fittingly-odd show at Seibu Shibuya.
The event is, in their own words, “a Magical
Mechanical Fashion Show” that lives up to the
name by providing not only a soundtrack played
by Maywa Denki’s automated
gang of robots, but also by deck-
ing out the models in makeup by
popular artist Jiro, who provided
some distinctly otherworldly ad-
ditional eyes and mouths to the
models. Adding yet an-
other layer to proceed-
ings was manga artist
Suehiro Maruo, who
contributed a number
of his iconic occult illus-
trations to the collec-
tion, as well as allowing
some of his character
designs to be brought
to life by MeeWee Din-
kee, blurring the line
between fashion and
cosplay in the process.
The fashion itself follows the manga theme
by distorting the body to shōjo manga-esque
proportions in the dresses, bringing the waist
up the body to just under the bust in order to
give the illusion of ultra-long legs. Those less
adventurous are also well catered for in a series
of sporty basics covered in arresting graphics.
Aruta Soup’s artwork
Maywa Denki
17
movies
PITCH PERFECT
A disaf fected college
freshman (Anna Kendrick)
gets an attitude overhaul
after joining the women’s
staid a cappella group
and infusing it with new material. This will appeal most to
those with a high tolerance for Glee (“Gleeks”?) or who
have already bought into the tired Bring It On formula.
Bright spot: a spontaneous “riff-off” with their male
counterparts. And Rebel Wilson shines as an Aussie
who calls herself Fat Amy “so twiggy bitches like you
don’t do it behind my back.” Bottom line: a synthetic,
not-very-funny collegiate comedy (projectile vomiting?)
with some very good music. Just buy the soundtrack.
(110 min)
ADVANCED STYLE
This cinematic extension
by director Lina Plioplyte
of photographer Ari Seth
Cohen’s popular blog of
the same name sends
a mixed message. On the one hand, it celebrates eight
energetic aging fashionistas ranging from their early 60s to
their late 90s who refuse to act, or more accurately dress,
their age. More power to ’em, I say. But does individualism
automatically mean flamboyancy? I was torn between anti-
ageist admiration and disdain for their cloying “look at me”
attitudes. Can one not look interesting without being self-
consciously eccentric? Warm and charming, but pretty thin.
Japanese title: Advanced Style: Sono Fashion ga Jinsei.
(72 min)
LOST RIVER
I don’t know why it is
that when actors turn
to f i lmmak ing , t hey
invariably shoot for Fellini
et al rather than just tell
a story. Ryan Gosling’s first effort behind the camera
is a nearly incomprehensible collage of David Lynch,
Gaspar Noe, Terrence Malik, Dario Argento, and the
actor’s Drive director Nicolas Winding Refn. There’s
nothing wrong with imitating one’s influences; it’s how
we learn. Although Gosling’s ambition exceeds his
current ability, there is some nice imagery among the
wearisome weirdness, and other signs that one day he
will make a good film. It’s just not this one. (95 min)
A WALK AMONG THE
TOMBSTONES
Among the gr immer
and grittier potboilers of
Liam Neeson’s resurgent
career as a thriller/action
hero, this slow-burn neo-noir can be a hard sit. The
villains are twisted, the good guys are flawed, and it’s
blatantly misogynistic. But it’s extremely well crafted
and not without its rewards. Neeson plays an ex-cop
unlicensed PI and recovering alcoholic. (Yes, I know.
Again. But no one does world-weary better.) He’s asked
to find and foil a sadistic serial kidnapper/killer targeting
the wives of drug traffickers, who are unlikely to go to
the police. It’s all fairly creepy. Call it the anti-Taken.
Japanese title: Yūkai no Okite. (113 min)
THE MAZE RUNNER
What we have here is
two-thirds of a service-
ab le Hunger Games
wannabe, featuring a
cast of appealingly hunky
guys expressly tailored to put YA girl bums in seats.
“The Glade” is an isolated, closed ecosystem bounded
by huge walls with only one monstrous door and
populated by a properly PC, ethnically diverse, guy-
only Lord of the Flies-tinged functioning society. Then
a girl shows up. It looks great; the special effects are
restrained and support the story. But the film blows it
all with a third act that falls all over itself setting up the
sequel rather than creating a coherent, stand-alone
story. (113 min)
BY DON MORTON
featured movie
NEWNEW
NEW
Get On Up: © Universal Pictures © D Stevens; Pitch Perfect: © 2012 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS All Rights Reserved.; Advanced Style: © 2014 Advanced Style The Documentary Llc. All Right Reserved.; Lost River: © 2013 BOLD FILMS PRODUCTIONS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; A Walk Among the Tombstones: © 2014 TOMBSTONES MOVIE HOLDINGS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; The Maze Runner: © 2014 Twentieth Century Fox Film; Before I Go to Sleep: © 2013 BEFORE I GO PRODUCTIONS, INC.; Chappie: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures © 2014 CTMG, Inc. All rights reserved.; Vice: © 2014 GEORGIA FILM FUND TWENTY-EIGHT, LLC; Run All Night: ©2015 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC.; The Signal: © 2014 Signal Film Group LLC All Rights Reserved; The Zero Theorem: © 2013 ASIA & EUROPE PRODUCTIONS S.A. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; Horns: © 2014 The Horns Project, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
He was “The Hardest-Working Man in
Show Business.” “The Godfather of Soul.”
He changed the way music was made. He
was The Great James Brown. He was also
a narcissistic, perfectionist prick who
was hated by his sidemen and not above
slapping around the occasional wife. This
somewhat fragmented film by Tate Taylor
(The Help) takes us from the early ’60s
through the late ’80s and captures the
energy that drove the man. Chadwick
Boseman, who recent l y appeared
as Jackie Robinson in 42, absolutely
incarnates the main man doing his
thang. He’s got the whirls, struts, splits,
and leaps down—and the attitude as
well. The music he’s lip-synching, but
that ’s not bad news, because every
note is f rom Brown’s own remixed
original vocals. Mick Jagger, whose own
legendary stage moves were inspired by
Brown, is the film’s music producer. One
glaring omission is that the f ilm doesn’t
even try to explain Brown’s endorsement
of Richard Nixon in 1972. But to be fair,
maybe that’s simply not possible to do.
In the end, like Ray, Walk the Line and
Jersey Boys, it’s all about the music, and
fans, which are legion, will have a funkin’
good time. Japanese title: James Brown:
Saiko no Soul wo Motsu Otoko. (133 min)
GET ON UP
BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP
Christine wakes up every
morning wi th al l her
memories of the past 16
years erased. Her long-
suffering husband has
developed a daily routine to bring her up to speed, and
she secretly sees a psychologist on the side who’s trying
to help her. What sort of trauma/accident/attack caused
her amnesia? Is her husband what he seems? Is the
psychologist? Do we care? Don’t be expecting Memento
here. Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth, and Mark Strong keep
this self-serious 50 First Dates out of the DVD bargain
bin, but they don’t make it all that memorable, either.
Unforgivably lame coda. Japanese title: Repeated.
(92 min)
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
18
The three-week program “Viva Italia!” presents
the great variety of the nation’s cinema, from the
masterpieces of opera and screen director Luchino
Visconti to Spaghetti Westerns. Highlights include
1973’s My Name is Nobody (pictured), a Topo Gigio
animated feature, and Juliet Binoche in the drama
Certified Copy, shot in English in Tuscany by Iranian
director Abbas Kiarostami. June 6-26 at Cinema Vera
(1-5 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku; www.cinemavera.com)
… Tokyo cinemas continue to bring the world’s best
stage performance to their screens with two ballets
by premiere British choreographer Matthew Bourne.
Swan Lake, which puts a new spin on Tchaikovsky by
having men dance the traditionally female roles, will
be presented in 3-D starting June 6, while Sleeping
Beauty, reimagined as a gothic romance, is on from July
4 at Yebisu Garden Cinema (4-20-2 Ebisu, Shibuya-
ku; www.unitedcinemas.jp/yebisu) … Fans of classic
Japanese cinema with enough linguistic skills not
to need subtitles will want to check out the Nagisa
Oshima Retrospective on at Image Forum in Shibuya
(2-10-2 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku; www.imageforum.co.jp).
The dozen selections focus on the late master’s heyday
in the ’60s and ’70s, including Diary of a Shinjuku
Thief (1969) In the Realm of the Senses (1976). KM
cinematic underground
CHAPPIE
Hailed as a “visionary” for
2009’s District 9, South
Africa’s Neill Blomkamp
recycled i t s pseudo-
social theme for 2013’s
Elysium. But it’s wearing thin in this ham-fisted, eye-
rollingly unintelligent (artificial or otherwise) misfire.
Robocop meets Short Circuit by way of Pinocchio. The
jabbering AI title droid vacillates between the moral
teachings of his creator (Dev Patel) and the greedy pack
of gangsters it’s fallen in with (annoying SA punk rockers
Ninja and Yo-Landi). It’s a preachy picture that evokes
big themes and then cuts to the chase(s) or blows stuff
up rather than say anything about them. (120 min)
THE SIGNAL
A t r i o o f g r a d u a t e
s t u d e n t s d r i v i n g
f rom M assachuse t t s
to Cal i fornia s top in
Nevada to fol low the
signal of a mysterious hacker who’s been taunting
them since they left. They find an empty shack, black
out, and wake up in a strange lab being examined by
Laurence Fishburne in a hazmat suit. This cinematic
puzzle continues to defy expectations as it genre-
hops from Blair Witch to alien abduction to TRON,
all the way to its inconclusive conclusion. Not great,
but i t ’s thought-provoking and intell igent , and
director-to-watch William Eubank does a lot with a
tiny budget, so look at this as a calling card. (97 min)
THE ZERO THEOREM
A hairless, uncharacter-
istically uncharismatic
Christoph Waltz plays a
brilliant cubicle jockey
tasked wi th work ing
on a mathematical proof that, well, nothing really
matters. This cluttered sci-fi confection is the kind of
colorful, kinetic dystopian vision that director Terry
Gilliam (Brazil ) does so well, but though this is being
sold as existential angst, it’s got a recycled feel, and
the clutter mainly serves to distract from the dullness
of the story and its take on digital alienation. The
repetitious in-jokes are not funny, the characters
are not likable, and the whole thing is too, uhm,
theoretical. Japanese title: Zero no Mirai. (106 min)
HORNS
Splat-pack film(re)maker
Alexandre Aja (Piranha,
The Hills Have Eyes) tones
down the gore in favor
of some serious genre-
juggling in this—what?—darkly comedic, supernatural,
coming-of-age, romantic, demonic horror whodunit.
After his girlfriend is murdered and he is blamed, Ig
Perrish (a committed Daniel Radcliffe) finds a pair of horns
growing out of his head. These apparently make people
mysteriously want to share their darkest secret impulses,
and he eventually uses these unnerving powers to seek
her real killer. It’s high-concept hooey but undeniably
original and compulsively watchable. Japanese
title: Horns: Yōgisha to Kokuhaku no Tsuno. (121 min)
VICE
The title of this ugly little
film refers to a near-future
pleasure facility in which
any sociopath with the
cash can fulfill his most
demented rape and murder fantasies with human-
looking cyborg beauties. Said victims are then repaired
and memory-wiped for the next sicko. “Story” revolves
around one such sexbot (Ambyr Childers) remembering
the last guy and escaping with Thomas Jane into a
cheapie chase movie. Yawn. A smirking, career-worst
Bruce Willis takes it a step beyond “phoning it in” as the
villain, with his maybe 10 minutes of screen time merely
justifying his image on the misleading poster. Japanese
title: Dead City 2055. (95 min)
More reviews: metropolisjapan.com/movies
This heartfelt ditty, directed
by Ichiro Kita, made its world
premiere at the Okinawa
International Film Festival in
March. The down-to-earth
love story charmed crowds
in multiple screenings at the
fest. Action star Shunya Shiraishi stars as Ryo, a driven
young man who goes to beauty school in Hokkaido and
practices so hard that he not only finishes first in his class,
but also wins a national prize for stylist students. Soon he’s
cutting the hair of the stars in trendy Harajuku and is highly
sought after by salons around Tokyo. But when he rejects
the advances of a super-model client, he finds himself
out of a job and has no choice but to return to Hokkaido.
There we find he treats his widowed mother with disdain
and other beauticians with condescension. When the
troubled lad meets Mari (Natsuna), he’s intrigued; but it
takes him a while—and many human service trips to old
folks’ homes—to treat her with kindness. Though the film
is a tad melodramatic, and we can see where it’s going
from a mile off, Ryo’s slow development is believable and
his emerging relationships with those around him well-
depicted. Recommended for those who like love stories.
English title: Smiles in the Mirror. (89 min)
KAGAMI NO NAKA NO
EGAOTACHIBy Rob Schwartz
eiga
© IMAGE.NET © 1973 Rafran Cinematografica© 2015「鏡の中の笑顔たち」製作委員会
The 68th annual Cannes Film Festival wrapped up
this week, with Japanese cinema receiving ample
representation. Festival favorite Hirokazu Koreeda
was up again for the Palme d'Or with his latest feature,
Our Little Sister, based on the manga Umimachi Diary.
Naomi Kawase, who has taken several prizes from
the French Riviera home to Kyoto in the past, offered
her latest work Sweet Red Bean Paste, which was
chosen to open the Un Certain Regard section of
innovative f ilms. The section also includes Kiyoshi
Kurosawa’s Journey to the Shore, his f irst in the
fest after getting his start in horror f licks. Gus Van
Sant’s Japan-set drama The Sea of Trees was also
in the competition. Matthew McConaughey plays an
American scientist who travels to Japan’s infamous
“suicide forest,” but changes his mind when he meets
a fellow troubled soul played by Ken Watanabe.
McConaughey at tended the festival with Naomi
Watts (pictured), who plays his wife in f lashbacks;
but things didn’t go as planned. The notoriously
f ickle Cannes audiences panned the f ilm, leading
McConaughey to say “people have as much right to
boo the film as to give it an ovation.” Sweet Red Bean
Paste opens May 30. Our Little Sister is out June 13.
Journey to the Shore is due out October 1. Kevin Mcgue
movie news
RUN ALL NIGHT
That Taken f luff aside,
Liam Neeson does make
grittier action films. Here
he plays Jimmy Conlon, a
mob assassin nearing the
end of his shelf life, a lonely drunk wracked with regret.
His only true friend is Shawn Maguire (the great Ed
Harris), the boss he has killed 18 men for over the years.
When his estranged son by chance witnesses a double
murder committed by Maguire’s hothead kid, Jimmy
has to shoot Shawn’s boy to save his own lad. Which
resets all the rules and leads to the title all-night chase.
Common is good as an icy hit man. This one’s stylish,
kinetic, believable, and ultimately satisfying. (114 min)
NEW NEW
19
It’s been almost a decade since Metropolis
last talked with TV On the Radio. In 2006, the
quintet were the latest darlings of the explod-
ing Brooklyn indie rock scene—part of it, but
with a lush sound distinct from the disco-punk
leanings of many Williamsburg bands of the era.
Nine years later, TVOTR are, if not wizened,
then wiser and more reflective in the wake of the
death of bassist Gerard Smith, who died of lung
cancer in 2011. Their new album, Seeds, is the
first recorded without his presence.
“You do a certain amount of creative work with
someone who’s basically a family member, and it
shifts the notion of what can be accomplished in
the band that had five members,” singer Tunde
Adebimpe says from their tour stop in Oakland.
“For me, when someone passes away I almost
think about them more than when they were alive.
That’s how your heart is connected to friends. But
in terms of music, he was not somebody who liked
to make bullshit; so we’re conscious of that now.”
Adebimpe plays down the direct effect of
Smith’s death on the album, but considerations
of love and loss are central to the urgency of
Seeds. On the elegiac, synth-driven “Careful
You,” for example, Adebimpe sings “I know it’s
best to say goodbye, but I can’t seem to move
away.” It’s a sentiment that could be applied as
equally to a disintegrating love affair as to the
death of a friend.
Having absorbed Smith’s passing and elected
to continue on, the four remaining members of
TVOTR—Adebimpe, producer/guitarist Dave Si-
tek, guitarist/vocalist Kyp Malone, and drummer
Jaleel Bunton—are currently in a sweet spot.
world. “But I’ve never considered us strictly a rock
band, because, if we were, we’d probably have a
few more awards by now. There are a lot of rock
bands with people of color in them now, but with
genres melding, it’s become diffuse.”
Adebimpe says TVOTR are looking forward
to their first visit to Japan since a quick solo tour
and appearance at Summer Sonic those many
years ago. He says these days crowds are ask-
ing for “Staring at the Sun” off Desperate Youth,
Blood Thirsty Babes, and “Wolf Like Me” off
Return to Cookie Mountain.
“We didn’t know what we were doing with
those songs,” he laughs. “They just showed up
at a time when a lot people connected with them.
It was a fresh sound even though we didn’t real-
ize it—we just knew we liked it.
“The best songs come as epiphanies. It’s like
seeing a painting that might look dashed off, but
it seems more alive than something that’s been
labored over for years. I think it’s because you’re
getting a message and you jot it down as quickly
as you can. You capture the message, and the
immediacy of how it’s put down carries through
to the song. Especially with new wave and punk—
it’s so earnest and barebones, it’s the only thing
they possibly could have done, and the energy
of that music is still palpable.”
arts&culture
Seeds has been nicely received as a return to
form, and Adebimpe says they’re having a blast
touring for the first time in several years.
“We’re in a place now where we realize the
value of having been able to pursue the band
for as long as we have, and the good fortune to
have an audience to sustain us,” he says. “We
recognize how special that is—because we don’t
make the most accessible music. Bands that
are willing to explore as much as we do are not
always rewarded with a career, and we realize
it’s a super lucky thing.”
TVOTR’s music is unconventional, but on a
song such as, for example, “Happy Idiot,” it’s
close enough to mainstream at times that one
can imagine a record exec pushing them in
an out-and-out-pop direction. That’s exactly
what happened, says Adebimpe. “We’ve been
advised a lot to tone things down to find a
wider audience, mostly by people in the music
industry,” he explains. “They’ll say, ‘If you would
only do this and that …’ You have to look at them
and tell them it’s like teaching a fish to breathe
air. We just don’t do that.”
Despite the gloss of Sitek’s production work,
when you look at TVOTR, you see three ag-
ing black guys and one geeky white one—not
exactly the recipe for mainstream marketing
success. Yet, they’re not really part of the black
rock movement pioneered by outfits like Bad
Brains, either.
“Thinking about Bad Brains or Living Colour,
anytime you have an example of someone who
looks like you, it’s helpful to a young person,”
Adebimpe recalls about his entry into the rock
MUSIC
A member down, the Brooklyn band is wiser if not wearier
BY DAN GRUNEBAUM
TV ON THE RADIO
Seeds
Genres: Alternative, Music,
Indie Rock, Rock
Released: Nov 17, 2014
© 2014 TV On The Radio/
Girl From Nantucket, Inc.
Under Exclusive License to
Harvest Records
20
ART
Stanley Kubrick’s seminal f ilm
2001: A Space Odyssey presents
a particularly powerful vision of
mankind’s trajectory because it so
brilliantly simplifies. The classic moment
in the film, in which the entire history
of mankind is encompassed in a single
jump cut between an ape throwing a
bone up into the air and a space station
spinning around in space, has become
legendary.
A similar sense of aesthetic compres-
sion and reduction to the essentials in-
fuses “Simple Forms: Contemplating
Beauty” at the Mori Museum of Art, an
exhibition that has been honed down to
basic geometric figures or biomorphic
shapes that evoke our ancient ancestors’
first experience using stones as tools.
SIMPLE FORMSBY C.B. LIDDELL
A key work is Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco’s
Boulder Hand (2012), a short video installation
made with an iPhone. It takes a similar leap to
Kubrick’s famous jump cut, but instead of a bone
and spaceship, Orozco’s piece shows us the af-
finities between the handling of a stone tool and
the handling of a smartphone. The video shows
a hand rubbing a stone in a way that puts us in
mind of how we rub and swipe our phone screens.
Helping to reinforce this point is the presence
of a piece of flint, crafted into a blade from the
Solutrean Period (22,000-17,000 B.C.), and a
selection of sculptures by Brassaï, the pseud-
onym of Hungarian artist Gyula Halasz, who was
fascinated by primordial forms.
In a similar vein, modernist
minimalist sculptures by the likes
of Henry Moore, Barbara Hep-
worth, Jean Arp, and Constantin
Brancusi are also included. The
latter draws our attention to the
surprising absence of Isamu No-
guchi at this exhibition. Noguchi
was a pupil of Brancusi’s, and in
the planning stage would have
been an obvious reference point
for an exhibition of this nature
in Japan.
Besides this minor quibble, the
main problem the exhibition has
is that it appeals more to the tac-
tile than the visual sense, but with
the usual proviso that nothing
must be touched. In visual terms,
there is a certain bleakness and
sterility to the show, with mono-
chromes, geometric shapes, and
parsimonious curves dominant.
Apart from sculptures and
a number of installations, like
Anthony McCall ’s f l ickering
Cinematic Installation (2007)—which evokes
the days of projector beams cutting through
the smoke-f illed cinemas—the exhibition
also includes some two-dimensional works,
mainly photographs but also including Al-
brecht Durer’s famous engraving Melancho-
lia I (1514), which contrasts a geometric solid
with a morose angel in what is possibly some
arcane allegory.
This suggests that one area in which the
exhibition could have done more would have
been an exploration of the geometric elements
in the symbolism of Freemasonic, cabalistic, and
Neo-Pythagorean societies. Arthur Koestler’s
1959 book The Sleepwalkers demonstrated
how such mystical concerns related to scien-
tific breakthroughs in earlier centuries, but the
intellectual dimension of this exhibition seems
superficial by comparison.
Some attempt to compensate for this short-
coming is made by including a Zen-related
theme, with circle paintings by the monk Sen-
gai, ink-wash paintings by Sesshū, and some
wooden sculptures by the itinerant 17th-century
artist Enku.
Runs until 5th July. 6-10-1 Roppongi, Tokyo.
Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.mori.art.museum
Ph
oto
by U
we
Wa
lter
Tayūguro by Chōjirō. Black Raku tea bowl.
Collection: Kitamura Museum, Kyoto
Birdstone, North America by Anonymous.
Ahrenberg Collection, Switzerland
anti by Carsten Nicolai (2004)
Melencolia I by Albrecht Dürer.
Private Collection. Courtesy: Ota Fine Arts
21
EXECUTIVEFIGHT NIGHTEXECUTIVEFIGHT NIGHT
VVJUNE 19, 2015
Grand HyattBallroom
Tokyo
JUNE 19, 2015Grand Hyatt
BallroomTokyo
[email protected] AVAILABLE ATfacebook.com/ExecutiveFightNight
www.executivefightnight.com
Proudly supportingBrought to you by
1 TO 1: MADS MIKKELSEN MARVELOUS DILEMMA
BY DANIEL L. SMITH, FOX EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen is a man that
seems to relish a dilemma. Known to fans
worldwide as the actor behind some of
entertainment’s most memorable villains,
like Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the television series
Hannibal and James Bond’s nemesis Le Chiffre
in the film Casino Royale, he came to Tokyo to
promote a film that finds his character being
a little bit of both.
In The Salvation, Mikkelsen is Jon,
a simple Danish man who migrated
to the American West during the
1870s with the hope of starting a
new life with his family.
“I like the fact that we were
not dealing with a hero. We are
not dealing with a gunslinger. We
are dealing with a humble man from
[a] simple background. He migrated to
America for seven years without his family, and
they are coming over, and then obviously ter-
rible things happen; and for that reason he will
become a gunslinger. But he does not start out
knowing that he will be a hero,” Mikkelsen says
of his character.
The film is brutal in its depiction of the Old
West, something the actor acknowledged was
the intent of the movie’s director, Kristian Levring.
“The last Western I had seen was The Unforgiven.
It was quite brutal as well. Levring said he did not
want to be extremely graphic. He didn’t want
to go Tarantino. He wanted the emotions to be
gruff and rough, but not necessarily in-your-face.
“It is all about how far you can go and still
Fox Backstage Pass airs Sat on Fox at
1am; Sun on Fox Movies Premium at 9am;
and on Fox Sports and Entertainment at
11:30am.
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arts&culture
keep your humanity. The question is, if that is
possible at all? Are you crossing a border where
humanity is gone? It’s brutal. It’s bloody. But I
think that has been a tendency of these films to
get gritty, right?”
Going to a place where they haven’t gone
could be said about the entire project, according
to Mikkelsen.
“The movie was shot in South Africa,
which is kind of interesting—Danish
people shooting an American West-
ern in South Africa. But it was fan-
tastic. We had an excellent South
African crew. If you pointed the
camera one way, you would have
all these people dressed up like
cowboys. If you pointed the camera
the other way, you would have all these
people standing around speaking South
African—and an occasional giraffe or zebra in the
background. There were some challenges, but it
was a fantastic experience,” he explained. “The
Western is not a genre at all in Denmark. It’s the
first time that we’ve done a Western.”
He paused for a moment and then corrected
himself. “That’s a lie, actually. We did a Western
comedy in 1971 or something. So this is the sec-
ond Western,” he added with a smile.
The smile stood out from a man whose steely-
eyed gaze has gotten him cast as villains in most
of his major Hollywood films.
Therein is where the dilemma widens.
“If you are only watching American films, then
you would see a seedy man; but I’ve done [good
guy] roles before [back home]. It is nice to go
back and forth between playing a villain and a
good guy, but for me, I try not to make a big dif-
ference between them.”
In his homeland, he is more likely to be cast
as the hero. He is by far one of Denmark’s most
successful actors. He was knighted in 2010 by the
Queen of Denmark, and has been voted Sexiest
Man in Denmark by several women’s magazines.
With a new film and a new season coming up
for his successful TV series, it seemed the only
dilemma that remained for the actor on his visit to
Japan was how to get out to see some of Tokyo.
“I have seen a lot from the hotel room,” he
joked. “I eat a lot of sushi at home, but I think it
would taste a lot better here.”
23
agendaWATCH LIST
JUL 18-26Bolshoi CircusConsisting of 4,000 artists and staff and more than 6,000 animals, the Bolshoi circus was established 78 years ago, and first came to Japan in 1958. Jul 18-26, various times. ¥3,700-6,200. Tokyo Taiikukan.
Kokuritsu Kyogijo or Sendagaya. www.bolshoicircus.comTickets on sale now
SEP 19-20The Irish Dance RagúsA show of live, fast moving, traditional Irish music, song, and dance that will leave you with a truly unique cultural experience. Sep 19, 12:30 & 4pm. ¥5,000-8,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. Sep 20, 2pm. ¥5,000-8,000. Tokyo Opera City.
Hatsudai. http://j.mp/ragus2015Tickets on sale now
OCT 14 & 17Paul WellerEnglish singer-songwriter who is also the principal figure of the 1970s and ’80s mod revival, and is often referred to as The Modfather. Oct 14, 7pm. ¥8,000. Zepp Diver City. Daiba. Oct 17, 6pm. ¥8,000. Yokohama Bay Hall.
Motomachi-Chūkagai. http://j.mp/weller2015Tickets on sale Jun 6
OCT 28Tommy EmmanuelAustralian virtuoso guitarist best known for his complex fingerstyle technique, energetic performances and the use of percussive effects on the guitar. Oct 28, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥7,500-9,500. Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/emmanuelcotton2015Tickets on sale now
UNTIL JUN 28Suigo Itako Iris FestivalEnjoy around 500 varieties of purple, white, and yellow irises at this historic festival that began in 1952. Until Jun 28, all day. Free. Suigo Itako Iris Garden, Ibaraki. Itako.Tel: 0299-63-1111. www.city.itako.lg.jp
hot tickets for free
Jun 4-5, 7pm. ¥7,500. Tokyo Kinema Club. Uguisudani. Tel: 03-3874-7988. http://j.mp/leejuck2015
MagmaFrench progressive rock band founded by classically- trained drummer Christian Vander, who invented the language Kobaïan, in which most lyrics are sung. Jun 4-5, 7:30pm. ¥8,600. Tsutaya O-East. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-4681. http://j.mp/magma2015
PentatonixAmerican a cappella quintet, who rose to fame on YouTube with their all-vocal renditions of Daft Punk hits, now touring the world. Jun 9, 7pm. ¥7,500. Zepp DiverCity. Daiba. Tel: 03-3527-5256. http://j.mp/pentatonix2015
Michelle BranchThe American singer-songwriter’s heartfelt acoustic tunes have taken her everywhere—and now they’re taking her to Japan. Jun 8-9, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥6,500-8,500. Billboard Live Tokyo.
Roppongi or Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/branch2015
J.D. SoutherAmerican musician, singer-songwriter, and actor who has written and co-written numerous hit songs recorded by artists such as the Eagles. Jun 10-11, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥6,800-8,800. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/souther2015
RumerPakistani-born British singer-songwriter whose voice has often been described as being reminiscent of Karen Carpenter. Jun 12, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥6,700-8,700. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/rumer2015
The Iron MaidensAmerican all-female tribute band to Iron Maiden. Jun 12, 7pm. ¥6,000 (adv)/ ¥6,500 (door). duo Music Exchange. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-8716. http://j.mp/theironmaidens2015
The Real GroupSwedish a cappella group who compose or arrange most of the songs in their repertory themselves. Jun 13, 6 & 9pm; Jun 14, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥5,400-7,400. Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133.http://j.mp/realgroup2015
BlueEnglish boyband comprising members Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan, and Simon Webbe. Jun 17, 7pm. ¥7,500. Shinkiba Studio Coast. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://j.mp/bluetokyo2015
Vanessa WilliamsAmerican singer, actress, producer, and former fashion model saves the best for Japan. Jun 14 & 20-21, 5 & 8pm; Jun 15, 19 & 22, 6:30 & 9:30pm. ¥13,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/williams2015
2 CellosCroatian cello duo who play mainly instrumental covers of well-known pop and rock songs, and have performed internationally. Jun 23, 7pm. Bunkamura Orchard Hall.
Shibuya. Jun 30, 7pm. Kanagawa Arts Theater.
Motomachi-Chukagai. Jul 2, 7pm. Suntory Hall. Tameike-Sanno. Jul 3, 7pm; Jul 5, 5pm. Bunkamura Orchard Hall.
Shibuya. All performances ¥7,000-8,000. http://j.mp/2cellos2015
Machine HeadAmerican metal band that is one of the pioneering bands in the New Wave of American Heavy Metal. Jul 2, 7pm. ¥7,500. Tsutaya O-East.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-4681. http://j.mp/machinehead2015
Tony Visconti and Woody WoodmanseyVisconti and Woodmansey play David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World.” Jul 6-7, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,800-9,800. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/tonywoody2015
Linder BrothersFusion group consisting of Swedish band Dirty Loops’ bassist Henrik Linder and his brother Erik. Jul 12, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥5,500-7,500. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/linderbros2015
The StrypesIrish rock band drawing inspiration from ’60s blues boom and ’70s pub rock bands such as Dr. Feelgood and The Rolling Stones. Jul 16, 7pm. ¥6,000. Club Quattro.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/strypes2015
AmarantheSwedish-Danish metal band notable for having three lead vocalists, each with their own vocal style of pop, rock, and death metal. Jul 17, 7pm. ¥6,800. Tsutaya O-East.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-4681. http://j.mp/amaranthe2015
JT TaylorAmerican singer and actor best known as the former lead singer of the R&B/funk band Kool & the Gang. Jul 29-30, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,800-10,800. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/jttaylor2015
JAZZ/WORLD
John Scofield: UberjamAmerican jazz-rock guitarist and composer who has played and collaborated with Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and more. May 28-29, 7 & 9:30pm; May 30, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/scofield2015
The Electric Guitar QuartetWith American jazz double bass and jazz fusion electric bass player John Patitucci and Adam Rogers, Steve Cardenas, and Brian Blade. May 27-29, 6:30 & 9pm; May 30, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,500-10,500. Cotton Club.
Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/electricguitar2015
Nels Cline SingersAmerican free jazz trio led by guitarist and composer Cline. Jun 2-3, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,800. Blue Note Tokyo.
Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/clinesingers2015
Robert Glasper ExperimentLed by Grammy-winning American jazz pianist and record producer. Jun 2-5, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,400-9,400. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/glasper2015
Bob Dorough and Nellie McKayAmerican bebop and cool jazz pianist and singer Dorough with American singer-songwriter, actress, and former stand-up comedian McKay. Jun 5, 7 & 9:30pm; Jun 6, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/bobnellie2015
Mike Stern BandLed by six-time Grammy nominee American jazz guitarist Stern, feat. Victor Wooten, Bob Franceschini, and Will Calhoun. Jun 7, 5 & 8pm; Jun 8, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo.
Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/sternband2015
Jef NeveBelgian jazz and classical pianist and composer. Jun 16, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥5,000-7,000. Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/neve2015
Marc Cary Rhodes Ahead Trio & Daniel Crawford TrioDouble bill by trios led by post-bop jazz pianist Rhodes and Crawford. Jun 16-18, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/carycrawford2015
Simon PhillipsEnglish jazz, pop, and rock drummer Phillips featuring Andy Timmons, Steve Weingart, and Ernest Tibbs. Jun 23, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo.
Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/phillips2015
Tom HarrellAward-winning American Jazz trumpeter and flugelhornist. Jun 23-25, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥7,800-10,000. Cotton Club.
Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/harrell2015
Kaki KingAmerican guitarist and composer known for her percussive and jazz-tinged melodies, energetic live shows, use of multiple tunings on acoustic and lap steel guitar, and her diverse range in different genres. Jun 24-25, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥5,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/kakiking2015
Tye TribbettAmerican gospel music singer and founder of the Grammy-nominated gospel group Tye Tribbett & G.A. Jun 25-26, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,800-9,800. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/tribbett2015
Lou Donaldson QuartetLed by Jazz alto saxophonist Donaldson best known for his soulful, bluesy approach to playing the instrument.
Jul 4-5. 5 & 8pm; Jul 6, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/louquartet2015
Bluey presents “Citrus Sun”British guitarist, bandleader, composer, and record producer who has led the British acid jazz band Incognito since its formation in 1979. Jul 7-9, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/bluey2015
KalapanaHawaiian group performing pop and soft rock music best known for their songs “Naturally” and “The Hurt.” Jul 17, 7pm. ¥6,900-8,900. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/kalapana2015
Blue Mountain BoysClassic country and bluegrass. Every third Sat, 6:30 & 7:30pm. Free. Cafe Sepia. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3406-1300. www.nagaremono.com/sepia
CLASSICAL
Jonas KaufmannGerman operatic tenor best known for his performances in roles such as Don José in Carmen and Cavaradossi in Tosca. May 30, 7pm. ¥14,000-26,000. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/kaufmann2015. Jun 1, 7pm. ¥14,000-26,000. Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall.
Kawasaki. Tel: 044-520-0200. www.kawasaki-sym-hall.jp
Wagner & Brahms: The Forest of German RomanticismTaijiro Iimori, a specialist of German music, will conduct several masterpieces by Wagner and Brahms. Jun 3, 7pm. ¥2,100-6,200. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-2111. www.t-bunka.jp/en
International Organ FestivalFeaturing organists Ernst Erich Stender and Mari Kodama. Jun 4, 7pm. ¥6,000. Sekiguchi Catholic Church.
Edogawabashi. Tel: 03-3945-0126. http://iofj.net
Bra Bra Final FantasyThe Siena Wind Orchestra performs music from the hit video game franchise. Jun
Concerts
POPULAR
NickelbackOne of Canda’s most controversial rock bands comes to Japan. May 30, 7pm. ¥9,500. Tokyo Taiikukan.
Kokuritsukyogijo or Sendagaya. http://j.mp/nickelback2015
Stolen.Female-fronted indie pop rock band Stolen. whose sound has been called a mix between the Gin Blossoms and the Cranberries, celebrates the release of their single “With the Rain.” Also featuring performances by The Watanabes, Erin Wick, and Mountain Fingers. May 30, 7:30pm. ¥2,000 w/ 2d + CD. Tsutaya O-West. Shibuya. www.facebook.com/StolenJapan
Taicoclub ’15Music festival with artists Autechre, Marcel Dettmann, Sons of Magdalene, and others. May 30-31, 3pm. ¥13,000 (adv)/ ¥14,000 (door). Kodama no Mori. Yabuhara. Tel: 03-6303-3690. http://taicoclub.com/15/tag/en
Live From The Kitchen: Disco, Volume 13Birthday celebration for the monthly showcase of live international indie music from Mana Hardcore, Martin Leroux, and more. May 31, 6:30-10:30pm. Free. Restaurant Papera.
Shinjuku-gyoenmae. Tel: 03-3350-0208. http://j.mp/kitchendiscovol13
ZeddRussian-German musician, music producer, and DJ who recently won a Grammy for “Clarity.” Jun 4, 7pm. ¥7,000-8,000. Studio Coast.
Shin-Kiba.http://j.mp/zedd2015
Idina MenzelAmerican stage actress and singer-songwriter who rose to fame in Broadway musicals Rent and Wicked, and who more recently voiced Elsa in Frozen. Jun 4-5, 7pm. ¥7,500-8,500. Nippon Budokan.
Kudanshita. http://j.mp/idina2015
Lee JuckKorean pop singer-songwriter and musician who made his debut as a member of Panic.
24
7, 1 & 5pm. ¥4,500-6,500. Bunkamura. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9111. http://j.mp/brabra2015
Disney on Classic: Spring GalaShowcasing popular songs from Disney movies such as Snow White, The Little Mermaid, Cinderella, and more. May 29-Jun 7, various times. ¥7,000-8,700. Theatre Orb. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. http://j.mp/disneyspringgala2015
The European Music that adorned the Meiji EraProduced by Kunitachi College of Music and performed by its students and alumni, the concert features songs and operas that were translated into Japanese during the Meiji Era. Jun 8, 7pm. ¥2,000. Suntory Hall Blue Rose.
Roppongi-Itchome. Tel: 03-3505-1001. http://j.mp/meijieuropean2015
Renaud CapuçonFrench classical violinist Capuçon with pianist David Kadouch. Jun 8, 7pm. ¥3,000-6,000. Toppan Hall.
Iidabashi. Tel: 03-5840-2200. http://j.mp/capucon2015
War and Music: From Darkness to LightProduced by Ferris University and performed by its students and alumni, the concert features war songs and compositions that helped unite people in their hope for peace. Jun 9, 7pm. ¥2,000. Suntory Hall Blue Rose. Roppongi-Itchome. Tel: 03-3505-1001. http://j.mp/warandmusic2015
Gianluca CascioliItalian pianist whose career was launched with his victory at the 1994 Umberto Micheli International Piano Competition. Jun 12, 7pm. ¥5,000-7,500. Kioi Hall.
Yotsuya. Tel: 03-5276-4500. www.kioi-hall.or.jp
Calefax Reed QuintetA unique reed ensemble from Amsterdam that has distinguished itself with its imaginative transcriptions that reach back to the Middle Ages. Jun 13, 1:30pm. ¥2,500-4,100. Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall. Kawasaki. Tel: 044-520-0200. www.kawasaki-sym-hall.jp
The Miró QuartetInternationally-performing professional classical string quartet that was awarded Chamber Music America’s prestigious Cleveland Quartet Award in 2005. Jun 7, 2pm; Jun 11, 13, 18 & 20, 7pm. ¥1,000-5,000 (all five concerts for ¥15,000). Suntory Hall Blue Rose. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 03-3505-1001.http://j.mp/miroquartet2015
Giovanni AlleviItalian pianist and composer who won the international selections for young concertists at the San Filippo Theatre in Turin in 1997. Jun 25, 7pm. ¥6,500. Hamarikyu Asahi Hall. Shibashi.Tel: 03-5541-8710.www.giovanniallevi.com/en
State Symphony Capella of RussiaConducted by Valery Polyansky with performances of the Overture from Glinka’s Ruslan i Lyudmila, Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in b minor, op.104, and more. Jul 9, 7pm. ¥6,000-10,000. Suntory Hall.
Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/statesymphonycapella2015
O Sole MioTake a musical trip to Naples, Italy, with performances by the Orchestra Italiana Napoletana. Jul 17, 6:30pm. ¥6,000. Nakano Zero. Nakano. Tel: 03-5340-5000. Jul 19, 1pm. ¥6,500. Yokohama Minatomirai Hall.
Minatomirai. Tel: 045-682-2020. Jul 20, 12:30 & 4pm. ¥6,500. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999. http://j.mp/osolemio2015
Clubbing
FRIDAY 29
The New Matrix BarMatrix Friday. Old-school hip-hop, west side, south side, all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm).
Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp
Sound Museum VisionRad. Techno, electro: DJs Off the Rocker, Verbal, etc. From 9pm. (m)¥3,500, (f)¥2,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5728-2824. www.vision-tokyo.com
AirR2. Hip-hop, jazz: DJs Toyoda, Masa, etc. Live: Hiroto Uyama and more. From 10pm. ¥3,000.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com
The RoomGlobal Rhythm. Hip-hop: DJs Watarai, Takemoto, etc. From 10pm. ¥2,000 w/1d.
Shibuya. www.theroom.jp
T2Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Baby-T, Shu, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www.t2-shibuya.com
AgehaThe Long Set. EDM, house: DJ Daishi Dance and more. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shinkiba.Tel: 03-5534-2525.www.ageha.com
Club AsiaVivivi. Electro, pop: DJs Gizumo, Uchida, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500 w/1d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www.clubasia.co.jp
WombHouse Tribe. EDM, house: DJs Bryan Cox, Yamariki, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5459-0039.www.womb.co.jp
Trump RoomCollege (France) at Blackout X Vanity. Featuring College, Maethelvin, La Fraicheur, and more. From 11pm. ¥2,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3770-2325. www.vanity.to
SATURDAY 30
The New Matrix BarSaturday Night Fever. Hip-hop, R&B, reggae: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 10pm).
Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp
AirSatoshi Tomiie. House, techno: DJs Maayan Nidam, Tomiie, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384.www.air-tokyo.com
Sound Museum VisionArtifact. Techno: DJs Dave Clarke, Ken Ishii, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5728-2824.www.vision-tokyo.com
The RoomJazzbrothers. Jazz: DJs Yama, Takehana, etc. From 10pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya.www.theroom.jp
T2Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Murasaki, Clay, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5428-8692.www.t2-shibuya.com
AgehaSaturdays. EDM, house: DJs Hatiras, Flipside, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shinkiba.Tel: 03-5534-2525.www.ageha.com
Ruby RoomSpace Dizzy Time. DJs Ito, Shidaxxxx, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3780-3022 (evenings) / 070-6969-4816 (daytime). www.rubyroomtokyo.com
Club AsiaTo Gothics. All mix: DJs Yaguchi, Adapter, etc. From 11pm. ¥4,000. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5458-2551.www.clubasia.co.jp
Lounge NeoPoke. Techno, bass: DJs Grimecraft, Qrion, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,000. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5458-2551.http://loungeneo.iflyer.jp
WombCircoloco Japan. Techno, house: DJs Kabuto, Pi-Ge, etc. From 11pm. ¥4,000.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp
MicrocosmosPeak. Bass, grime: DJs Broken Haze, Bashoo, etc. From 12am. ¥1,000. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5784-5496.www.microcosmos-tokyo.com
SUNDAY 31
T2Global Allmix Party. All mix: DJs Kotani, Shu, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www.t2-shibuya.com
AirEdmf. EDM: DJs Taku, Hirata, etc. 5-11pm. ¥2,000 w/1d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com
MONDAY 1
AirKey. House, techno: DJs Bengal, Future, etc. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com
T2T2 Monday. EDM: Various DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5428-8692.www.t2-shibuya.com
WombInsomnia. EDM, drum’n‘bass: DJs Rowel, Yuki, etc. From 10pm. ¥1,500 w/1d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp
TUESDAY 2
Ruby RoomOpen Mic. From 7pm. ¥1,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3780-3022 (evenings) / 070-6969-4816 (daytime).www.rubyroomtokyo.com
T2Super Tuesday. EDM: Various DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www.t2-shibuya.com
WombTuemix. EDM, Top 40: DJs Alpha One, Ashlay, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f)free.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp
WEDNESDAY 3
T2Shibuya Girls Party. EDM: Various DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www.t2-shibuya.com
WombWedm. EDM: DJs Hiroki, Yo, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f)free. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp
The RoomNoi. House, techno: DJs Ai, Niwa, etc. 7-11pm. Free.
Shibuya. www.theroom.jp
THURSDAY 4
AirBootylicious. Hip-hop: DJs Iku, 8man, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)free.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com
WombMix Juice. House, EDM: DJs Yamariki, Mizuki, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f)free.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp
The RoomEl Amor. Disco, boogie: DJs Endo, Nishikawa, etc. 7-11pm. ¥1,000. Shibuya.www.theroom.jp
FRIDAY 5
The New Matrix BarMatrix Friday. Old-school hip-hop, west side, south side, all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm).
Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp
AirBcc: Holiday. Techno, house: DJs Gonno, Noa, etc. Live: Atom and more. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5784-3384.www.air-tokyo.com
Sound Museum VisionPower. All mix: DJs Ol Killer, Ali&, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500, (f)¥2,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5728-2824. www.vision-tokyo.com
The RoomBreakthrough. Hip-hop: DJs Jin, Ladi Dadi, etc. From 10pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya.www.theroom.jp
T2Shibuya Mixx. EDM: Various DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www.t2-shibuya.com
AgehaAgepa. EDM, all mix: DJs Cts, U5, etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)free. Shinkiba.Tel: 03-5534-2525.www.ageha.com
Lounge NeoWeekend Gang London. Hip-hop: DJs Nok Nok, Cashino, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5458-2551.http://loungeneo.iflyer.jp
WombSterne. Techno: DJs Agoria, Ishino, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya.Tel: 03-5459-0039.www.womb.co.jp
FAMEFame Presents Lock. DJs Sander Kleinenberg, DJ Sawa, etc. From 10:30pm. (m)¥3,500 w/2d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Happy Hour: ¥1,000 w/1d (until 12pm). Omotesando.Tel: 03-3475-0788.http://fame-aoyama.com
SATURDAY 6
Daikanyama UnitVortex VI -Infinite-. EBM, goa, techno, trance: DJs Masa, Yuta. From 11pm. ¥3,000 (adv)/¥4,000 (day).
Daikanyama. Tel: 03-5459-8630. www.unit-tokyo.com
SUNDAY 7
SoupWasted: Soup 9th Anniversary. Cut Hands, Miclodiet, Painjerk, Tetsumasa AKA Devecly Bitte, etc. From 6pm. ¥2,500.
Higashinakano.Tel: 03-6909-3000.http://ochiaisoup.tumblr.com
Dance
Strawberry FieldsProduction by Japanese contemporary dance company Condors, an all-male ensemble who perform wearing school uniforms. May 30, 2 & 7pm; May 31, 3pm. ¥2,000-4,500. Saitama Arts Theater.
Yonohonmachi.Tel: 0570-064-939. http://j.mp/fields2015
GQ2015 [Gabby]Top-level male dancers gather to present a dynamic dance program incorporating elements of ballet, jazz, street, and contemporary dance. Jun 10-12, 7pm; Jun 13, 2 & 7pm; Jun 14, 2pm. ¥8,000-12,000. Ex Theater Roppongi. Roppongi or Nogizaka. Tel: 03-6406-2222. http://j.mp/gabby2015
CircusMoriyama Kaiji, recipient of the 63rd Minister of Culture Art Encouragement Prize for New Talent, creates the world of the circus that the whole family will enjoy. Jun 20-28, various times. ¥1,620-5,400. The New National Theatre, Tokyo. Hatsudai. http://j.mp/moriyamacircus2015
Stage
Kikai-ga-shimaOriginal comic play concerning three Japanese men who are exiled from the capital to Kikaigashima, the Island of Demons. Performed in English with Japanese subtitles. May 30, 2 & 7pm; May 31, 3pm. ¥3,000. World Peace Theater.
Keikyu-Kawasaki.http://ytg.jp/en
Der RosenkavalierSet in Viennese high society, this opera’s rich, elegant music expresses memories of the past and fresh youthful love, with production by Jonathan Miller, who excels at detailed character
portrayal. May 24, 30, Jun 2 & 4, 2pm; May 27, 6pm. ¥4,320-23,760. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://j.mp/rosenkavalier2015
Discover KabukiKabuki performed with commentary. Part I: “How to Appreciate Kabuki in English.” A kabuki actor and a TV personality will guide you in both English and Japanese. Part II: “Tsubosaka Reigenki,” a live kabuki performance. Audio guide rental service is included in the ticket price of this program. Jun 19, 7-9pm. ¥1,300 (students, all seats)/ ¥1,500 (adults, 2nd grade)/ ¥3,900 (adults, 1st grade). National Theatre.
Hanzomon. Tel: (0570) 07-9900 (10am-6pm).http://j.mp/discoverkabuki2015
Jersey BoysJukebox musical presented in a documentary-style format that dramatizes the formation, success, and eventual break-up of the 1960s rock ’n‘ roll group The Four Seasons. Jun 25-Jul 5, various times. ¥9,000-13,000. Theatre Orb. Shibuya. Tel: 0570-550-799. http://j.mp/jerseyboys2015
Exhibitions
ENDING SOON
The Prisoner of MirrorsShowcasing paintings of flowery goldfish by artist Rika Shimasaki, which portray artificially-bred prize goldfish resembling over-dressed and made-up women. Until May 31, 12-7pm, closed Mon. Free. Nanatasu Gallery.
Nogizaka. Tel: 03-6419-7229. http://chocorika-shimasaki.jimdo.com
Measuring: This much, that much, how much?This exhibition aims to illustrate the types of units that are used to measure a variety of things and phenomena, and to give them a sense of familiarity that they may not already have. Until May 31, 10am-8pm, closed Tue. ¥500-1,000. 21_21 Design Sight.
Nogizaka.Tel: 03-3475-2121.http://j.mp/measuring2015
Louvre MuseumWith works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and others. Until Jun 1, 10am-6pm, closed Tue. ¥800-1,600. The National Art Center, Tokyo.
Nogizaka. www.ntv.co.jp/louvre2015/english
ONGOING
Guillaume Bottazzi: Recent PaintingsShowcasing works by Bottazzi, which are composed of intangible elements and ethereal forms, and which are imbued with his affinity with Japan. Until Jun 13, 11am-6pm (until 5pm on Sat), closed Sun, Mon & hols. Free. Gallery Itsutsuji. Sendagi. http://gallery-itsutsuji.com
The Beauty of Asian ArtShowcasing prehistoric and ancient masterpieces from China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Until Jun 14, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥700-1,000. Idemitsu Museum of Arts. Tokyo. www.idemitsu.com/museum/honkan
25
BALLET SWAN LAKEThe crown jewel of classical ballet, performed by the National Ballet of Japan. June 10, 7pm; June 11 & 14, 2pm; June 13, 2 & 6:30pm. ¥3,240 - ¥10,800. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai (Keio New Line).www.nntt.jac.go.jp/english
JUN 10, 11, 13 & 14
The Great AmazonFeaturing over 400 exhibits and a 4K theatre experience where you can travel to the Amazon through a 355-inch screen. Until Jun 14, 9am-5pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥600-1,600. National Museum of Nature and Science. Ueno. Tel: 03-3822-0111. http://j.mp/thegreatamazon2015
PerspectivesA unique collaboration featuring artwork by Frankie Cihi and original works created by Tokyo-based performance artists. Jun 10-14, 5pm. Opening reception (Jun 6) ¥4,000/¥3,500 (door)/¥3,000 (adv)/¥2,500 (students). Turner Gallery. Higashi-Nagasaki. Tel: 03-3953-5155. www.tokyoarts.org
Modern Crafts and the Tea Ceremony from the Museum CollectionExhibition focusing on tea-ceremony-related pieces produced by modern artists. Until Jun 21, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥70-210. The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Takebashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://j.mp/craftsandtea2015
The Ceramic Works of Rouault and the FauvistsIntroducing ceramic works created by some of the great French artists of the early 20th century, including Georges Rouault and Henri Matisse. Until Jun 21, 10am-6pm, closed Wed. ¥500-1,000. Shiodome Museum. Shimbashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://meturl.com/panasonicmuseum
Ki Yoon Ko: StimmungHiromart Gallery’s second solo show of works by this Hamburg-based American artist known for his photorealistic paintings. Until Jun 21, 1-7pm, closed Mon & Tue. Hiromart Gallery.
Edogawabashi.Tel: 03-6233-9836.http://hiromartgallery.com
The British Museum Exhibition: A History of the World in 100 ObjectsThis exhibition explores human creativity covering two million years, from prehistoric to modern times, through 100 items from the British Museum’s collection. Until Jun 28, 9:30am-5:30pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥800-1,300 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,600 (door). Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
Ueno. Tel: 03-3823-6921. http://j.mp/100objects2015
Utrillo and ValadonShowcasing pieces by Utrillo, a French painter who specialized in cityscapes; and his mother Valadon, an artist whose drawings and paintings mostly included female nudes and portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. Until Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥650-1,000 (adv)/ ¥800-1,200 (door). Sompo Japan Museum of Art. Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5405-8686. www.sjnk-museum.org/en
Sayoko Yamaguchi: The Wearist, Clothed in the FutureThis exhibition will trace Yamaguchi’s career, who, as a top model, embodied the mysterious beauty of the East, and conquered the world of fashion during the 1970s and ’80s. Until Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,200.
Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. www.mot-art-museum.jp/eng
Time of OthersShowcasing works by 18 artists of the younger generation in Asia/Oceania whose practices offer keys to engaging with the time of others. Until Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo.
Kiyosumi-shirakawa. http://j.mp/timeofothers2015
Mirror NeuronA collection of modern art collected by psychiatrist Ryutaro Takahashi. Until Jun 28, 11am-7pm (until 8pm on Fri & Sat), closed Mon. ¥800-1,200. Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery. Hatsudai. www.operacity.jp/en
Naruto ExhibitionExperience the spectacular world of manga master Masashi Kishimoto’s iconic Naruto. Until Jun 28, 10am-8pm. ¥500-1,800 (adv)/ ¥800-2,000 (door). Mori Arts Center Gallery. Roppongi. http://naruto-ten.com
Masks: Beauty of the SpiritsBy laying bare the true allure of masks, this exhibition explores their true essence and what they mean to us in today’s world, through masterpieces from the Musée du quai Branly in Paris. Until Jun 30, 10am-6pm, closed the second and fourth Wed of the month. ¥600-1,200 (¥100 discount to those who come wearing designs or patterns inspired by masks or faces). Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum. Meguro.Tel: 03-3443-0201.http://j.mp/masks2015
The World of Edo Dandyism: From Swords to InrōShowcasing around 100 carefully selected obects such as swords, sword fittings, and inrō (a traditional Japanese case for holding small objects) that were all the rage among the Edo dandies. May 30-Jul 20, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥700-900 (adv)/ ¥800-1,000 (door). Nezu Museum. Omotesando.Tel: 03-3400-2536.www.nezu-muse.or.jp/en
The Maestro of Conception, Kenzan is HereBorn in a cultivated Kyoto family, Kenzan was raised in a context of great artistic refinement. As a potter, he introduced new designs based on painting and literature to the world of ceramics. May 27-Jul 20, 10am-6pm (until 8pm on Fri & Sat), closed Tue. ¥800-1,100 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,300 (door). Suntory Museum of Art. Roppongi.http://j.mp/maestrokenzan2015
Helene Schjerfbeck: ReflectionsShowcasing works by Finnish painter Schjerfbeck, who’s most widely known for her realist works and self-portraits. Jun 2-Jul 26, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥800-1,300 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,500 (door). The University Art Museum. Ueno. Tel: 050-5525-2200. http://helene-fin.exhn.jp
Tokyo Story 2015Showcasing works by artists who participated in Tokyo Wonder Site’s Creator in
Residence program. Until Jul 26, 11am-7pm. Free. Tokyo Wonder Site Hongo.
Ochanomizu, Suidōbashi, or Hongō-sanchōme. Tel: 03-5689-5331. http://j.mp/tokyostory2015
Leonardo da Vinci and the Battle of Anghiari: The Mystery of Travola DoriaA unique examination of the revolution in visual perception that da Vinci spawned with his work The Battle of Anghiari, one of the largest mural projects he ever undertook. Until Aug 9, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥300-1,000 (adv)/ ¥400-1,300 (door). Tokyo Fuji Art Museum. Hachioji or Tokyo Fuji Bijitsukan. Tel: 042-691-4511. http://j.mp/davincianghiari2015
Cy Twombly: Fifty Years of Works on PaperFeaturing around 70 drawings, paintings, and monotypes by Twombly, an American painter of large-scale, freely scribbled, calligraphic and graffiti-like works. May 23-Aug 30, 11am-5pm (until 8pm on Wed), closed Mon. ¥500-1,100. Hara Museum of Contemporary Art.
Kita-Shinagawa. Tel: 03-3445-0651. www.haramuseum.or.jp
Fukagawa in the Snow: The Reappearance of an Utamaro MasterpieceShowcasing works by Utamaro, one of the most highly regarded ukiyo-e practitioners, especially for his portraits of beautiful women, or bijin-ga. Until Aug 31, 9am-5pm. ¥1,800-2,800. Okada Museum of Art.
Kowakidani. Tel: 0460-87-3931. www.okada-museum.com/en
What is Realist Painting?Exploring the diversity and potential of realist painting through 54 works of landscapes, figures, and more. May 21-Nov 15, 10am-5:30pm, closed Tue. ¥900-1,800. Hoki Museum.
Toke. www.hoki-museum.jp/en/
Open Space 2015Explore an array of representative, historical, and new works from the realm of media art, as well as results of research activities at educational institutions. Until Mar 6, 11am-6pm, closed Mon. Free. NTT Intercommunication Center. Hatsudai. Tel: 0120-144199. http://j.mp/openspace2015
UPCOMING
Tanomura ChikudenCommemorating the 180th anniversary of the death of the artist Tanomura, who loved the art of calligraphy and poetry. Jun 20-Aug 2, 10am-5pm (until 7pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥700-1,000. Idemitsu Museum of Arts.
Tokyo. www.idemitsu.com/museum/honkan/
World Press PhotoShowcasing the winning photos of the 2015 World Press Photo Contest, which has encouraged the highest standards in photojournalism for more than 55 years. Jun 27-Aug 9, 10am-5pm. ¥350-700 (adv)/ ¥400-800 (door). Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-5391-2111. www.asahi.com/event/wpph
MORE LISTINGS ONLINE → HTTP://METURL.COM/LISTINGS
Art Nouveau GlassFeaturing pieces which include some of the finest works of glass produced by the Art Nouveau movement in Paris and Nancy. Jul 4-Sep 6, 10am-6pm, closed Wed. ¥500-1,000. Shiodome Museum. Shimbashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://meturl.com/panasonicmuseum
Sports
BASEBALL
Yomiuri Giants vs. Orix BuffaloesJun 2-4, 6pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome. Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants.jp/en
Yakult Swallows vs. Rakuten EaglesJun 2-4, 6pm. ¥500-27,500. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium.
Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3404-8999. www.yakult-swallows.co.jp
Yakult Swallows vs. Lotte MarinesJun 5, 6pm; Jun 6, 2pm; Jun 7, 1pm. ¥500-27,500. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium.
Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3404-8999. www.yakult-swallows.co.jp
Yomiuri Giants vs. SoftBank HawksJun 5-6, 6pm; Jun 7, 2pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome.
Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants.jp/en
Yomiuri Giants vs. Chunichi DragonsJun 19, 6pm; Jun 20-21, 2pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome.
Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants.jp/en
Yomiuri Giants vs. DeNA BaystarsJun 23-24, 6pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome. Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants.jp/en
Yakult Swallows vs. Yomiuri GiantsJun 28, 2pm. ¥500-24,000. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium.
Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3404-8999. www.yakult-swallows.co.jp
Yomiuri Giants vs. Toyo CarpJun 30-Jul 2, 6pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome.
Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants.jp/en
Yakult Swallows vs. Hanshin TigersJun 30-Jul 2, 6pm. ¥500-30,000. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3404-8999. www.yakult-swallows.co.jp
SOCCER
FC Tokyo vs. Kashiwa ReysolMay 30, 7pm. ¥600-6,200 (adv)/ ¥800-6,500 (door). Ajinomoto Stadium.
Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-2440-0555. www.fctokyo.co.jp
Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Gamba OsakaMay 30, 7pm. ¥1,000-9,800 (adv)/ ¥1,100-5,500 (door). Nissan Stadium. Kozukue. Tel: 04-5477-5000. www.f-marinos.com/en
Tokyo Verdy vs. Tochigi SCMay 31, 1pm. ¥600-14,500 (adv)/ ¥800-15,000 (door). Ajinomoto Stadium.
Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-2440-0555. www.verdy.co.jp/index.html
Yokohama FC vs. FC GifuJun 6, 4pm. ¥600-5,200 (adv)/ ¥600-5,700 (door). Nippatsu Mitsuzawa Stadium.
Mitsuzawakamicho. Tel: 04-5311-2016. www.yokohamafc.com
Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Kashima AntlersJun 20, 4pm. ¥1,000-9,800 (adv)/ ¥1,100-5,500 (door). Nissan Stadium. Kozukue. Tel: 04-5477-5000. www.f-marinos.com/en
Yokohama FC vs. Omiya ArdijaJun 21, 6pm. ¥600-5,200 (adv)/ ¥600-5,700 (door). Nippatsu Mitsuzawa Stadium.
Mitsuzawakamicho.Tel: 04-5311-2016.www.yokohamafc.com
Festivals
TRADITIONAL
Torikoe Jinja MatsuriSummer festival with Tokyo’s heaviest mikoshi. Jun 6-7, all day. Free. Torigoe Jinja.
Kuramae or Asakusabashi. Tel: 03-3851-5033.
Tsukiji Shishi MatsuriUnique mikoshi parade featuring two lion mikoshi and one main mikoshi. Jun 10-14, all day. Free. Tsukiji Namiyoke Jinja. Tsukijishijo. www.namiyoke.or.jp
Sannō MatsuriOne of the three largest festivals in Japan. Jun 7-17, all day. Free. Hie Jinja.
Tameikesanno. Tel: 03-3581-2471. www.tenkamatsuri.jp Forums & Expos
Italian Olive Oil Day 2015A celebration of olive oil, w/seminars, taste courses, and certified olive oil sommeliers. May 30, 11am-8pm. Seminar registration fee: ¥2,500 (one seminar)/ ¥4,000 (two seminars)/ ¥6,000 (three seminars). Roppongi Hills event space UMU.
Roppongi. Seminars to be held at Bar del Sole Roppongi. www.jooprize.com
Comedy
New Material NightStandup, improv, and trying out new stuff. Jun 2 & 16, 8-10pm. Free. Double Tall Cafe. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5467-4567. http://tokyocomedy.com/new_material_night
Standup Comedy at The HobgoblinStandup comedians with a variety of styles performing in English. Jun 18, 9-10:30pm. Free. Hobgoblin Shibuya. Shibuya. http://tokyocomedy.com/standup_comedy_at_the_hobgoblin
Community
Half-Fast CyclistsBicyclists of all treads meet for slideshows, lectures, ride-planning, etc. Every second Wed, 7pm. Free. The Pink Cow. Roppongi. Tel: 03-6434-5773. www.thepinkcow.com
Stitch-n-BitchMeet fellow knitters, crocheters and sewers to talk, share ideas, eat, drink and create. Every first and third Tue, 7pm. Free. Cafe Respekt.
Shibuya. www.meetup.com/TokyoStitchandBitch
Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art SchoolBurlesque models pose for artstars and sketching newbies alike with arty socializing. Every third Wed, 7-10pm. ¥2,000 w/ 1d. Studio and Space IVVA. Meiji-Jingūmae or Harajuku. www.facebook.com/Dr.Sketchy.Tokyo
Learning
California Wine vs. French Wine SeminarLearn about wines and enjoy an American-style dinner. May 30, 7-10:30pm. ¥11,980 + tax (adv). Stellato.
Shirokanedai. Tel: 03-3442-5588. http://meturl.com/monthlywine
Other Events
AAYTP Talent Show Benefit The African-American Youth Travel Program, a Japan-based NPO helping underprivileged kids in the U.S. travel to facilitate cross-cultural exchange, will hold a fundraising talent show. Proceeds go toward funding the program. Jul 12, 7pm. ¥3,500. The Guinguette by Moja, B1F 1-11-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku. www.meturl.com/aatyp
ManpakuFill up to your heart’s content on an array of delicious foods, such as ramen, desserts, gyoza, local and world foods, and more. Until Jun 1, 10:30am-9pm (until 6pm on final day). ¥500 (weekdays)/ ¥800 (weekends). Showa Kinen Park. Tachikawa. http://manpaku.jp
Spring Rose FestivalOver 90 varieties of rose plants, including “Maria Callas” and others. Until Jun 7, 9am-5pm. ¥70-150. Kyu-Furukawa Gardens.
Kami-Nakasato.Tel: 03-3910-0394. http://teien.tokyo-park.or.jp/en/kyu-furukawa
Bunkyo Hydrangea FestivalOne of Bunkyo’s five major flower festivals. Jun 6-14, all day. Free. Hakusan Shrine.
Hakusan. Tel: 03-3811-6568. www.city.bunkyo.lg.jp/bunka/kanko/event/matsuri.html
Hotaru no YubeEnjoy a romantic evening lit by 2,500 fireflies. Jun 1-30, 6-9pm. Free between 6-9pm during firefly season. Yuyake Koyake Fureai no Sato. Yuyake Koyake. Tel: 042-652-3072. http://meturl.com/yuyakekoyake
26
ULTRA JAPAN 2015
TOKYO ODAIBA ULTRA PARK
September 19-21
11am-9pm (doors open at 9am)
One-day ticket: ¥13,000 (tax included)
Three-day ticket: ¥39,000 (tax included)
VIP One-day ticket: ¥30,000 (tax included)
Official website: http://ultrajapan.jp
Facebook: www.facebook.com/UltraJapanOfficial
Instagram: http://instagram.com/ultrajapan
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ultrajapan
Organized by ULTRA JAPAN 2015 Planning
Committee
ULTRA JAPAN 2014, a two-day gathering
of more than 42,000 music lovers, has
officially become the largest electronic
music event in Japan. The country's most
influential critics and trendsetters in both the mu-
sic and fashion industries proclaimed it the most
exciting event on the music scene in 2014. Tick-
ets sold out within seconds and quickly became
premium items. Now, ULTRA JAPAN is back with
the world's best DJs to share special music and
an amazing time with thousands of music lovers!
Tickets for this year’s event were in such high
demand that they sold out immediately after the
official Phase-One lineup was announced.
WHAT’S ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL?ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL (UMF), which started
in Miami in 1998, is known as a key catalyst for
the worldwide EDM (Electronic Dance Music)
phenomenon. It became an annual trendsetting
ARMIN VAN BUUREN
DJ and producer from the
Netherlands. Five-time
number-one position
holder in the critically-
acclaimed DJ Mag Top 100
DJs poll. Buuren is one of
the world’s most influential
music pioneers.
NICKY ROMERO TRANCE
DJ and producer from the
Netherlands. Discovered
by David Guetta and
collaborated with him at a
party in Ibiza. At the age of
25, Romero produced
hit singles for Rihanna and
Britney Spears.
DAVID GUETTA
DJ and producer from
France. Has collaborated
with Rihanna, Kylie
Minogue, Madonna, and
others. Guetta is one of the
pioneers of the EDM scene
and helped it become a
worldwide phenomenon.
SKRILLEX
Three-time Grammy
Award-winning DJ and
artist from America. His
shows in Japan have
always been immediate
sellouts and Skrillex has
been called “the most
demanded/wanted DJ.”
event thanks to the unique concept of having
the most iconic, world-class DJs play music
non-stop, back to back, in the middle of the
urban jungle.
In 2013, UMF became one of the biggest
events in history as 300,000 people came from
around the world for six days. The event has
always sold out in a matter of seconds no matter
where it’s held around the globe: Miami, Spain,
Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Croatia, South Korea,
South Africa, and, of course, Tokyo.
As one of the year’s most highly-anticipated
events, UMF’s VVIP seats are among the most
sought-after tickets by top celebrities, who en-
joy the festivities as well as hosting their own
private parties. Numerous artists and celebri-
ties seek the high-priced VVIP seats each year
in Miami, and when Madonna, Paris Hilton, and
LMFAO personally purchased tickets, the news
went viral.
ULTRA JAPAN 2014 AFTER MOVIE GOES VIRAL WITH MORE THAN 37 MILLION VIEWS! The 2014 festival took place in the urban jungle
of Tokyo, with more than 40,000 people de-
scending upon Odaiba to experience the best
performances and music by the world’s most
iconic DJs. ULTRA JAPAN 2014 After Movie fea-
tured Japan’s music lovers, trendsetters, taste-
makers, and fashionistas, as well as Japan’s
historic landmarks such as Mt. Fuji, authentic
shrines, the trendsetting fashion mecca of Ha-
rajuku, and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing—
one of the busiest intersections in the world.
The aftermovie also features comments by
the performers/DJs, including Kaskade, Mark
Knight, Fedde Le Grand, Umek, Hardwell, and
Axwell. ULTRA JAPAN 2014 After Movie lets
those who attended relive the excitement of
the festival, and those who never got a chance
to participate enjoy the powerful music festival
at home. http://youtu.be/d6NSBUZBNXQ
THE BIGGEST MUSIC FESTIVAL IN THE HEART OF THE CITY
THE 2015 PHASE-ONE LINEUP
ULTRA JAPAN 2015
SEP 19-21 @ TOKYO ODAIBA ULTRA PARKadvertorial
27
1 AT YOUR SERVICE
1.1 HEALTH
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1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES
I M M I G R AT I O N L A W Y E R AT N I P PA S H I O F F I C E s u p p o r t s v i s a a n d n a t u r a l i z a t i o n a p p l i c a t i o n s , c o m p a n y e s t a b l i s h m e n t a n d b r a n c h off ice installation, including c o m m e r c i a l r e g i s t r a t i o n , a s w e l l a s i n h e r i t a n c e
p r o c e d u r e s i n J a p a n . F r e e c o n s u l t a t i o n a v a i l a b l e i n English, Español and Japanese. T e l : 0 3 - 6 2 6 4 - 8 4 4 6 n p @ n i p p a s h i . c o m http://nippashi.com
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2 FIND A PLACE
2.1 GUESTHOUSE
CREA-UN UENO. Furnished private rooms, w/digital locks, near Asakusa, Ueno, Skytree. Safe area, female-only, roof top garden w/nice view, BBQ space, free bicycle. From ¥56,000/m. Utilities included. No key money/guarantor. [email protected] http://w w w. s a k u r a - ko - b o.co m 03-6912-0692
2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000
I C H I I C O R P O R A T I O N . Over 600 affordable, quality-f u r n i s h e d a p a r t m e n t s i n central Tokyo locat ions. No key money/guarantor/agent f e e r e q u i r e d . N e w , c l e a n apartments, simple contract system, full English support. Call us today! 03-5437-5233 www.japt.co.jp
RENTAL APARTMENTS, HOUSES, C O N D O S A N D S T U D I O S i n Yokohama, Kawasaki, Tokyo, and near US mil i tary bases. English-speaking staff will guide you through the renting process. For a stress-free search, contact Rent Life. 045-470-3214 www.rent-yokohama.com/english [email protected]
S E R V I C E D A PA R T M E N T S i n a q u i e t r e s i d e n t i a l a r e a o f H i r o o . S t u d i o s a n d s u i t e s . 4min from Hiroo Stn. Rates: Daily ¥7800. Weekly ¥6850-/d a y . M o n t h l y ¥ 5 7 0 0 - /d a y . O ve r t h r e e m o n t h s ¥ 513 0 - /day. Tax, ut i l i t ies included. f r o n t d e s k @ a z a b u c o u r t .c o m w w w. a z a b u c o u r t . c o m 0 3 - 3 4 4 6 - 8 6 1 0
2.3 RENT OVER 200,000 YEN
SHIROKANE PENTHOUSE WITH HUGE BALCONY AND STUNNING VIEWS OVER TOKYO. Bright corner 1LDK penthouse (55sqm), w/private roof-deck (65sqm), overlooking Hiroo, Azabu, Roppongi, renovated, fully furnished, w/garden furniture, h o t - t u b h o o k u p , w o o d f l o o r s ¥290,000. [email protected] 090-3574-0328
2.4 HOUSE SHARE
ROOM FOR RENT IN YAMATO-SHI, K A N A G A W A - K E N . R o o m i n mansion, w/sofabed and other utentils, on Sotetsu/Odakyu Line ¥30,000/m. Contact email: [email protected]
2.6 BUY/SELL PREMISES
2LK HOUSE IN USAMI, two toilets, wood stove, large sundeck, lockup garage, two f loors (35sqm each), freehold land, overlooking Usami B ay s u r f b e a c h ¥ 4 . 4 m i l l i o n . Negotiable. Private sale by owner. No resort maintenance fees. Photos available. [email protected] 090-9819-1558
3 EDUCATION
3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS
C O S M O S C L U B J A P A N E S E LESSONS. Group of volunteers offers basic Japanese lessons for foreigners, every Wed, 10am-noon, at Kudan Shogai Gakushukan, Kudan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 090-2645-5212 [email protected]
3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE
Celtic languages and Japanese. Hello, I'm a Japanese female professional writer in Tokyo learning Gaelic and Welsh for inspiration. I'm a Japanese teacher as well. Seeking native speakers for exchange. Slàinte! Iechyd da! [email protected]
English and Japanese. Group language exchange every Wed, 7:30-9:30pm, at coffee shops around Hiroo. Most members are 20s and 30s. We switch languages every 30min. Fun events on weekends. Free to join. [email protected]
English and Japanese. Japanese man is seeking a language partner for weekday evenings/weekends, preferably on a regular basis. My interests are contemporary art, photos, travel. Happy to help with your Japanese! Only native English speakers and no romance. [email protected]
English and Japanese. Open-minded Japanese female, 23-40, sought for language exchange and socializing.
Serious only. Call Bobby at 090-5589-6864 or 080-8118- 4073 or email [email protected].
English and Japanese. JF seeks an exchange partner in the daytime on weekdays at Kawasaki Stn. [email protected]
English and Japanese. JF seeks language exchange partner. [email protected]
English and Japanese. Interesting, well-educated, cute SJM seeks native English speakers in Tokyo for a language exchange. Let's meet once or twice/week to improve our language abilities. I'm sure that it'll be a wonderful experience. Just email me. [email protected]
English and Japanese. I'm a JF seeking an English language partner and friend. My place is in Kichijoji. If you are interested, please contact me. [email protected]
English and Japanese. I 'm a JF, late 30s, in Tokyo. I'd like to improve my English (vocabulary, speaking, writing). I can teach you J, too. Let's have tea or dinner! Women only, please. [email protected]
German and Japanese. JF seeks Ger/J language exchange partner. Seit Sechs Monaten lerne ich Deutsch aber ich spreche Englisch. F/M ok. If interested, drop me a l ine. [email protected]
Korean and Japanese. Japanese male, 42, seeks a native Korean speaker for Kor/J exchange. I like music, reading, cooking. I hope we can learn from each other and have some fun. [email protected]
Korean and English. 요즘일어배 우 고 있 고 한 국 어 안 쓰 기 땜에한국어거의다까먹었나봐. [email protected]
日本語と英語。 僕はイギリス人. 毎日日本 語を勉強してる. でも言語交換にいつも失 敗しちゃう. [email protected]
3.6 LEARNING: GENERAL
I K E B A N A ( J A P A N E S E T R A D I T I O N A L F L O R A L ARRANGEMENT) is a powerful means of self-expression. Trial lesson, including all materials ¥ 4 0 0 0 . N o J a p a n e s e n e c e s s a r y . C e r t i f i c a t i o n , diploma can be earned. Three classroom locations in Tokyo. Website: w w w.atel ier-soka.c o m / e n g l i s h / i n d e x . h t m l Email: [email protected]
3.9 TEACH ME!
T R A N S L AT I O N F O R E N G L I S H L E S S O N S . W o r k i n g t o w a r d s becoming an English-to-Japanese translator, but need help polishing my English. Can translate simple documents in exchange for English lessons. [email protected]
PhD student in engineering? Tokyo only. D2 /D3 majoring in wireless communication engineering? Need some mentoring on how to design simulation. Must know Monte Carlo/Particle Filter/ Neural Network, etc., and be able to use Matlab/Simulink ¥4000/two hours. [email protected]
Teach me English in exchange for karate. Do you want to learn real karate? I can teach you one of the major styles of traditional Japanese karate. We can exchange for your English lesson. [email protected]
Web designer. I am seeking a female web designer. Must know HTML/CSS/PHP. Meet in Ueno/Akihabara/Shinjuku area, two or three times/month. In return, I'll teach you English and pay ¥2000 for two hours of your time. [email protected]
4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS
4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS
D I N I N G C H A I R S , H e n r i k s d a l , eight available, bought in ‘11, in very good condit ion, two cover sets (natural and brown) ¥3000/each/obo. ht tp: //bit . ly/1Huxbkv [email protected]
Armchair, Rolf Benz (L82xW105xD88), in good condition ¥10,000. Negotiable. Pick up only Waseda. [email protected] 080-4157-3729
Mattress, Nitori, single, feather, low repulsion, new, approximately 2kg ¥3800. Shinjuku. [email protected]
Table, low (60x90cm), bright wood, w/two chairs, solid, in good condition, made in Japan ¥ 2800. Shin juku. Photos available. [email protected]
Table, s ide, brand-new, wooden, brown ¥6000. j [email protected] 08040683296
W a r d r o b e , t h r e e - d o o r ( W 16 8 xH 18 8 xD60), w/center- door mirror, solid, sturdy, quality fittings, five y/o, almost as new. New ¥100,000. Sell ¥25,000. Meguro. [email protected]
4.2 APPLIANCES
Air purifier, Venta LW, size 24, German-made ¥10,000. Pick up Shinjuku. [email protected]
Laminator, w/pouch f i lm ¥ 4000. [email protected]
Trouser press, Toshiba, stand-up, as new ¥2500. Pick up Shinjuku. [email protected]
4.4 TV & HOME THEATER
Plasma T V 42", Panasonic V iera TH-P42S3, HD 1080P, as new ¥55,000. Chiba City. [email protected]
4.6 FOR KIDS
Baby items. English books, DVDs, puzzles, toys, clothes. Pick up Yokohama or chakubarai. [email protected] http://bit.ly/1PxNDaM
Chair, Stokke, wooden, designed to grow with child, nine m/o, in very good condit ion. New ¥34,000. Sell ¥17,000. Pick up Saitama-Shintoshin. a l b e r to l i ca n d r o @ h e a r t .o c n.n e. j p 08068105414
Karate gi and belt, for kids 3-12 years old ¥300+. [email protected]
5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS
5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT
Golf bag, Le Coq Sportif Golf tote, w/shoe pocket, as new ¥1500. Pick up Shinjuku-ku. [email protected]
Leg Magic, unused, w/guide book and grade-up set, purple, as new ¥1980. Shinjuku. [email protected]
Surfboard, 5'7", slightly banged up, still shreds ¥9000. Pick up Ikebukuro area. [email protected]
Surfboard, 6'3, tri-fin, w/fins, in great condition ¥35,000. Pick up Ikebukuro area. [email protected]
5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT
Drum kit, Roland V-Drums-TD20, '04, hihat stand, no bass drum pedal, no throne, records nicely, one owner, as new ¥250,000. Pick up Kita-Kamakura. Details available. [email protected]
Electric guitar, Hagstrom Super Swede, gloss black, in good condition, w/leather gig bag, bought in '13, as new, saw only light action ¥60,000. Can deliver Shinjuku/Yoyogi. [email protected]
Electric guitar, Epiphone Zakk Wylde ZV Custom Bullseye, never played, w/original case ¥80,000. W/Dunlop wah, Roland amp, Red Monkey strap, etc. ¥100,000. Ishibashi. [email protected] 090-2821-7282
Metropolis and its Classifieds section are printed every other week. The upcoming publication dates and corresponding deadlines for print are as follows. This does not affect the online Classifieds, where ads are visible immediately after they are approved.
FRI, JUNE 12, ISSUEDeadline: June 4, 3pm
FRI, JUNE 26 ISSUEDeadline: June 18, 3pm
28
6 VEHICLES
6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES
Honda Fit, '05, 102,000km, new tires in Sep '14, shaken until Mar '16. [email protected]
6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES
Bikes: old mountain bike ¥1000. Holding bike ¥9000. Mountain bike ¥9000. [email protected]
7 GENERAL
7.1 PHONES
Mobile phone, SoftBank, prepaid ¥1800. [email protected]
7.2 FASHION
Flip-flops, Olukai brand, XL, made in Hawaii, never worn. New ¥6000+. Sell ¥3000. Pick up Shinjuku. [email protected]
Shoes: V ic tor ia's Secret , genuine leather, size US 9, 5.5" heel, never worn ¥9800. V ic toria's Secret gold sandals, size US 9, 5.5" heel, never worn ¥8000. Aldo wedge heels, size US 9, never worn ¥ 8900. P ick up Ikebukuro area or ship anywhere in Japan for +¥600. [email protected]
Wedding dress, white, size US 4-6/Japan 9-11 (adjustable lace corset), worn once. New ¥90,000. Sell ¥40,000. Ikebukuro area. [email protected]
8 COMPUTERS
8.2 HARDWARE
L a p t o p , T o s h i b a D y n a b o o k , widescreen, 15.4", USB webcam, 80GB HD, Celeron M, DVD MultiDrive, built-in Wi-Fi, E/Win 7 Ultimate, MS Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Skype ¥11,000. [email protected]
M o n i t o r, w i d e s c r e e n ¥ 1 8 0 0 . [email protected]
PC, Gateway MD7800-11j, Core 2 Duo P8600 2.4GHz/two-core CPU, 15.6" screen, 4GB RAM, 320GB HD, Wi-Fi, DVD MultiDrive, Win 7, floppy disk drive, webcam, Logicool MK700 mouse and keyboard ¥12,000. synergyl [email protected] 090-2656-9691
10 HELP!
10.1 HELP ME
F R E E E N G LI S H -TO -JA PA N E S E TRANSLATION. Working towards becoming a translator and need practice with simple documents. Have experience working in law office, accounting, HR, advertising and sales. michiane256@gmail .com
Are you a very good C++ and Java developer? I need you to help me walk through a program. Need to have good programming skills. Minimum e d u c a t i o n: m a s t e r ' s d e g r e e i n engineering or sciences. Can pay ¥3000/two hours, plus coffee. [email protected]
Climate expert needed. Need a guest speaker to appear on a YouTube streaming show to talk about man-made climate change and what to expect in the future. [email protected] ht tp: // f rozen-f rame.wix.com /ageofreason
Do you know RDF/XML? I need your help to convert CVE (google it!) file to RDF/ XML. You should have good knowledge of ontology, RDF, XSLT, Jena SDB, etc. Can pay ¥4000/two hours, plus coffee. [email protected]
Sponsorship. Ten years' experience in cafe/bar work, including working at international hotels. I'd like to open a cafe/bar, but need sponsorship. Individuals and Cloud Funders are welcome. P le a s e, i f in tere s te d, l e t u s co m e to a n a g r e e m e n t . s a m u e l a d o n k o r @ g m a i l . c o m 090-6152-6274
10.2 SUPPORT
F R E E P R O F E S S I O N A L CONSULTATION FOR FOREIGN R E S I D E N T S , w / l a w y e r s , a d m i n i s t r a t i v e p r o c e d u r e special is t s , educators , etc . English, Chinese, Korean and Tagalog interpreters available. S a t , J u n e 2 0, 1 : 3 0 - 4 : 3 0 p m ( r e c e p t i o n c l o s e s a t 4 p m ) , Itabashi Green Hall, 36-1 Sakae-cho, I tabashi - ku. kkouryu@city. itabashi.tokyo.jp w w w.itabashi-ci.org/int-en
N E E D T O TA L K ? W e ’ r e h e r e to l is ten. TELL LIFELINE: f ree, anonymous English counsel ing daily from 9am to 11pm by trained v o l u n t e e r s ( 0 3 - 5 7 74 - 0 9 9 2 ) . TELL COUNSELING: af fordable mul t i l ingual psychotherapy by a c c r e d i t e d W e s t e r n - t r a i n e d professionals, a CIGNA International Prov ider (03 - 4550 -1146) . TELL website: www.telljp.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twit ter @TokyoLifeLine.
THE JAPAN HELPLINE, 24 hours a day, from anywhere, about anything. From emergency assistance to simple questions. Visit www.jhelp.com/ and press “help,” or cal l 0570 - 000 -911 . To volunteer or support, please contact [email protected]. www.jhelp.com
S U B S C R I B E TO M E TR O P O LI S A N D N E V E R M I S S A N I S S U E . O n e y e a r ( 24 i s s u e s ) ¥ 3 6 0 0 (corporate subscribers, 7-100 copies ok ¥22,560). Half year (12 issues) ¥1800 (corporate subscribers, 7-100 copies ok ¥12,000). Bank transfer or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club) . Detai ls at ht tp: //metropolisjapan.com/subscription.
HIV Peer Support group and workshops. Get together with people in the same boat as you, who understand. Held in a safe, considerate, 100% confidential setting to discuss what’s on your mind, ask questions and make new friends. [email protected] www.peersupporttokyo.com
Infertility support group. TTC Tokyo is an infertility support group that provides informal opportunities for women and men experiencing infertility to connect with one another. Please visit website for more info. [email protected] www.ttctokyo.org
10.3 LOST FRIENDS
Seeking Mindy. Is Mindy Mack, a petite blonde teaching assistant from L.A., still in Tokyo? Any info appreciated. [email protected]
12 SOCIAL SCENE
12.1 LET’S PARTY
JAPAN INTERNATIONAL PARTY - SPRING-SUMMER SPECIAL. Sat, May 30, 6:30-9pm, Bar Quest (Roppongi). Japan’s
biggest international party. 250 people expected. All-you-can-drink and free snacks. J a p a n e s e m e n: ¥ 4 0 0 0. O t h e r s : ¥ 3 0 0 0. M o b i l e: ht tp: //get your fr iend.com/mobile/ [email protected] w w w.g e t y o u r f r i e n d .co m 090-1735-5405
J O I N T H E B I G G E S T , B E S T, M O S T P O P U L A R I N T E R N AT I O N A L PA R T Y ! Great people, drinks and food! Meet new friends and party with nice people in a friendly atmosphere. Events in Tokyo (Ginza, Azabu, Roppongi) and Osaka. ¥1500-¥2000. http://english.gaitomo.com/[email protected]
I N T E R N A T I O N A L E V E N T S . Lo o k in g to jo in a var iety of i n t e r n a t i o n a l e v e n t s? T h e Tokyo Spontaneous Hangout M e e t u p G r o u p h a s e v e n t s such as international parties, p i c n i c s , f r e e l i v e E n g l i s h comedy, language exchange an d m any mo re. Che ck t h is link for further details: www.m e e t u p . c o m / t o k y o i t e s Looking forward to seeing you at an event!
I N T E R N AT I O N A L PA R T Y AT LEAFCUP. Come join us and have fun. Men: ¥3000. Foreigners/women: ¥2000. All-you-can-d r i n k - a n d - e a t . I i d a b a s h i a n d Yo ko h a m a: J u n e 6 a n d 20. Shibuya: June 13 and 27. www.leafparty.com
T O A D V E R T I S E I N M E T R O P O L I S , J A P A N ’ S N O .1 E N G L I S H M A G A Z I N E , l o g o n a t w w w. m e t r o p o l i s .c o . j p / c l a s s i f i e d s o r e m a i l y o u r c o m m e r c i a l a d s t o c o m m e r c i a l @metropolisjapan.com.
13 CLUBS & INTERESTS
13.1 SPORTS
J U S T A 3 M I N W A L K F R O M RO PP O N G I H I LL S, Club 360 is Tokyo’s premier health and f itness club. No membership o r j o i n i n g f e e s . P e r s o n a l t r a i n i n g , p h y s i o t h e r a p y , f i tness classes, k ickboxing, b o x i n g , m a s s a g e . i n f o @club360.jp w w w.club360.jp 03-6434-9667
A M E R I C A N F O O T B A L L . N ihon Un is ys Bu l l s , X league Central Division, seeks fit players w/
US college football experience for all positions. Practice every Sat/Sun from 10am-3pm (including meeting) in Tokyo/Saitama (time and venue subject to change). Attendance at prac t ice must be over 60%. Please contact for tryout info and send your prof ile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail .com http://www.unisys.co.jp/football
A L L - N A T I O N A L I T Y T O U C H F O OT B A L L . N o n - c o n t a c t t a g r u g b y ( O Z t a g ) a n d R u g b y League players . We play ever y Sat f rom 10am in Tatsumi . M/F and beginners welcome! Good exerc i se and fun ! M any o ther a c t i v i t i e s , s u c h a s B B Q s a n d drinking parties! Email for details. [email protected] http://ameblo.jp/tokyo13warriors
A M A T E U R R U G B Y L E A G U E PLAYERS. Japan ANZACS Rugby League team is seeking Rugby Le a g u e p l aye r s f o r J a p a n e s e Ru gby Le a gu e o f f i c ia l g am es f r o m A p r t o S e p . E v e r y o n e welcome. Contact for more details. [email protected]
FUN WITH TOUCH RUGBY! Join us for social or competitive touch rugby every Sat at 2:30pm by Ariake Stn, Yurikamome Line. Any age, sex, level ok. Please email for details. funwithtouch@gmail .com www.funwithtouch.com/where-we-play
PLAY RUGBY. The Tokyo Crusaders are a friendly but keen international rugby club. Devoted to the game and its social side, the “Cru” welcomes a l l p l a y e r s a n d s u p p o r t e r s . Established in 1990, the Cru plays in the Shuto League 1st Division. http://www.facebook.com/tokyo.crusaders www.tokyocrusaders.com
TA M B O U R E L L I . U n i q u e n e w sp o r t f ro m S cot lan d . Us in g a tambourine-like instrument as a racquet, players hit a shuttlecock. We play two or three times/month on weekends in Meguro with many socials. Join us! More details: www.tamjapan.org/en/ [email protected]
Baseball player. Japan Amateur Baseball team is seeking players for baseball games and practices. We play every Sat and Sun in Yokohama City. Everyone welcome. Email for details. [email protected]
Don’s Half-Fast Flash-Mob Weekend Urban Bicycle Rides. [email protected]
Futsal in Tokorozawa. Sun night futsal? Mostly 30-45 year olds play every Sun evening. Non-league, but fairly competitive. Come and play for exercise and fun! Any age ok. [email protected]
Futsal players wanted by a very friendly international team. Practice is in Tokyo and Kanagawa on Sat. Details available. [email protected]
Ice hockey: Kanagawa Maple Leafs, Yokohama. Join us! The Kanagawa Ice Hockey League for working people is a competitive league, so experience in ice hockey is a must. A team is joining A pool, B team is E pool. [email protected] https://sites.google.c o m / k a n a g a w a m a p l e l e a f s / h o m e 03-3258-5401
Jogging Yokosuka. SJM seeking friends to jog 8-20km in Yokosuka, mornings preferred, but depending on the day, other times could work, too. ジョギング仲間募集横須賀. [email protected]
Quality football. Interested in playing football at the weekend and training midweek? Want to enjoy a few beers after a good run out? If you consider yourself a quality player, please drop us a note. [email protected]
S e e k i n g J a p a n e s e a r c h e r y companions. Let’s do kyudo near Tokyo. Once/month for three hours, weekends only. See website for details. [email protected] http://jmty.jp/tokyo/com-spo/article-qa3g
Tennis in central Tokyo. Active group of tennis friends in central Tokyo welcomes serious/motivated new players. We play on weekday evenings and weekends. Different levels (sorry, no beginners), fun training sessions and games with great people from all over. [email protected]
Volleyball Club Intervoll. Japanese and foreign volleyball players gather in Takadanobaba to enjoy playing. Have volleyball experience and want to play in a friendly atmosphere? [email protected] http://intervoll.sakura.ne.jp/
Weekend futsal team in Tokyo. Please introduce yourself (full name, age, nationality, whether you belong to another team, experience, etc.). 都内週末フットサルチーム. [email protected]
Women’s soccer club. Five-a-side, 11-a-side, on grass f ields. Two or three practices/matches on Sun. All nat ional i t ies, exper ience level s, beginners welcome. Happy and friendly club! We have many socials. [email protected]
13.2 LEISURE
M A C A R T H U R H E I G H T S . Ta ke a b r e a k w h e r e G e n e r a l D o u g l a s M a c A r t h u r d i d ! O n e hour from Tokyo by car or direct t ra in . Beaut i fu l cab ins on the ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping. [email protected]
IAC Tokyo, The International Adventure Club Tokyo, is an all-volunteer group of folks from the Tokyo area who enjoy outdoor activities together. [email protected] www.iac-tokyo.org
Japanese home cooking. Japanese housewife offers free home cooking lessons to females at her house near Kawasaki Stn on weekdays during the day. Free, but you pay the cost of ingredients. [email protected]
Tokyo ET contact group. Join us beneath the stars as we endeavor to make contact with ET visitors and their craft. [email protected] www.meetup.com/Tokyo-ET-Contact-Group/events/193113322/
13.3 ARTS
ARTSY BUGS CREATIVE SOCIAL CIRCLE. Artsy Bugs is a collection of ar t is ts , musicians , dancers , p e r f o r m e r s a n d p e o p l e w h o love and appreciate a l l th ings c reat i ve . Come out and show your work /per formance, share ideas, collaborate and socialize! [email protected] www.meetup.com/artsybugs
13.4 MUSIC
Bassist wanted around Yokohama. We mainly play rock music and have rehearsals in Shin-Yokohama. Any kind of player is welcome, so feel free to contact us. [email protected]
Drummer/percussionist wanted for new lineup of E/J band playing original songs in central Tokyo. Plenty of opportunity to play live. [email protected] http://www.reverbnation.com/thestraysjapan
Seeking guitaris t . Tokyo - based hard rock band, Stoning Crows, seeks a skilled and easygoing guitarist to replace our current who is moving back to the States. Influences are vast, from metal to funk, grunge to classic rock. [email protected]
Seeking tenor a capella singer. We’re four a capella singers, with great singing experience, living in Tokyo, seeking alto, tenor parts. Rehearsals in Shinjuku and Shibuya. We’ll start with Pentatonix songs. [email protected]
13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT
Diamond Way Buddhism Tokyo. Do you want to explore your own mind? Guided Buddhist meditation every Sun, 6pm, near Azabu-Juban. International practitioners, beginners welcome, Japanese spoken. Please call 090-3598-3072 for more information. [email protected] www.diamondway.jp
Zen meditation (Zazen). You’ve always thought it would be interesting to try it—why not now? Join us Fri evenings at Tokuun-in in Ueno. Make arrangements in advance by email, and check our home page. [email protected] www.wgthorpe.com
色ー度カフェ. ライトワーカーヒーリング。任意の助けのための私に連絡してください。 [email protected]
13.9 INTERNATIONAL
Intercultural activities. JII (Japan Intercultural Iwnst itute) is a non-p rof i t , memb er- r un org an iza t ion that sponsors activit ies (seminars, cul tural event s, conferences) for those want ing to fur ther develop i n t e r c u l t u r a l c o m p e t e n c i e s a n d meet other intercultural ists. [email protected] www.japanintercultural.org
N i h o n g o 倶楽部いんたぁなしょなる. Nihongo Club International is a volunteer group to help foreign people learn Japanese at the Tokyo Volunteer Action Center in Iidabashi. Every Thu, 7-9pm. [email protected]
14 PERSONALS
14.1 FRIENDS
American male seeking friends. American man, 28, seeking friends in the Yokohama area. I am kind and friendly. Please email for more info. [email protected]
Friends. Hi, there. I'm a SJF, 30s, from Tokyo, seeking new friends who could hang out with me after work or on weekends for dinner, drinking, movies, something similar. [email protected]
New friends. American male, can never have enough friends. If you feel the same way, please look me up. I enjoy drinking, dining, or just hanging out at a cafe as long as the conversation is interesting. [email protected]
Not Japanese? UK chap, internationally traveled, working near the Imperial Palace, seeking international people for drinks and chats after work. Any nationality ok, but English speakers only. Tell me your story in a few lines when you contact me. [email protected]
Seeking friends in central Tokyo. JF, early 30s, seeks friends to hang out with in central Tokyo. [email protected]
The Magic Whip. If you know whose album this is (without searching on Google), then maybe we can be friends. White British male living in Tokyo seeking people to hang out, have drinks, talk music. [email protected]
14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN
S E E K I N G A S U G A R DA D DY ? S a f e l y m e e t r i c h a n d e l i t e m e n w h i l e h a v i n g f u n a n d m a k i n g m o n e y . W e a r e a m e m b e r s - o n l y d a t i n g c l u b with strict rules. Foreign and Japanese executives, lawyers, c e l e b r i t i e s . N o t a n e s c o r t c l u b. N o c h a r g e f o r f e m a l e members. 0120 - 675 -858 (E) [email protected] h t t p : //u n i ve r s e - c l u b. j p /e n /women
ROMANCE IN TOKYO. 年に4回程、東 京 に 主 張 で 行 く欧 州 の 国 際 弁 護 士 です (4 0 代 ) . いつ も 寂しくて 有名な 5 星ホテル に 泊 まりま す。 結 婚して いま す がe x c i t e m e n t も残 念 ながらないです。 同じような 生 活をしている素 敵 な日本人女 性 を探しています。 スポ -ツが 好 きで見た目も大 丈 夫なので 誰 かと出会うのは簡 単ですが、スペシャルな1人を探してます。美 人でセクシーでスマートで前向きなopen-mindedな方、せひ連 絡をしてください。待っています。t o k y o r m c e @yahoo.com
The majority of classified ads have moved online! classifieds.metropolis.co.jp
29
A m e ri ca n a u t h o r s e e k i n g intelligent, slender Japanese woman. You run your fingers through your hair and turn out the lamp. Night turns your world into infinity. ジェイムズ. [email protected]
Aroma massage. Would you l ike a nice, relaxing aroma oil massage? A m a te u r m a s s e u r s e e k s m a t u re massage partners to practice on. I can meet anywhere in central Tokyo. I speak English and Japanese. [email protected]
A t t r a c t i v e , e x o t i c J a p a n e s e professional seeks romance. Adorable, caring, movie- and classical music-loving Japanese, 36, working for an international firm, is seeking a long-term relationship with a kind, sincere woman of any nationality. Serious only. [email protected]
Black American man, friendly and cute, seeking a long-term relationship. Any race welcome. Women only, please. [email protected]
Black male for conversation and casual fun. Black male, 30s, 180cm, in Tokyo, nonsmoker, non-drinker, fairly fit, seeking a woman for nice conversations in English, discreet encounters, and maybe a bit of casual fun and more. [email protected] 090-1761-7595
British gentleman seeking Japanese lady for long -term relat ionship. Educated, intelligent, professional, calm, polite and kind, 45, loves physical closeness, seeking a cultured and attractive lady for happy times together. Thank you. [email protected]
British male seeking mature lady. Hello, I'm from the UK, 26, seeking some fun with a mature Japanese lady. Any age is great, so if you're a little curious, email me. [email protected]
Chinese woman? Canadian guy, tall, good-looking, seeking a Chinese woman for romance this spring and summer. [email protected]
Cuckold m arria ge? Fun, loyal , easygoing, hard-working, considerate, healthy guy, early 40s, seeks a JF, 20s-30s, slim-bodied, for a long-term relationship. Kanto area, serious only, photo please. Find me–I am as lonely as you are. [email protected]
Cute, interesting JM for SWF. Seeking attractive Western female with a nice smile. If you are interested in chatting over coffee or nice food, please contact me. I am looking forward to your message. Just try once. [email protected]
Cute, sweet and smart Japanese man seeks SWF who seeks secret happy events in her spare time in Tokyo. Single/married ok. Shall we begin to talk? I think this opportunity will be a great one for us. [email protected]
European gentleman, 40s, tal l , educated, good-looking, S, seeks M lady, 35 or younger, with unusual fantasies, ready to explore her naughty side. One mouse click can make your secret desires come true! [email protected]
F o r e i g n e r f o r n o n -J a p a n e s e . Professional Brit working in Tokyo seeks other interesting foreigners for drinks, chats, etc., after work. Interests include travel, music, the occasional film and book, photography, generally enjoying life. Casual meetup is fine. [email protected]
Friendship plus. Asian man seeking a woman, 24-36, healthy, nonsmoking, honest/sincere, non-drinker, for mutually beneficial relationship based on mutual need and trust. I am sincere and caring. Let's meet once/week and enjoy each other's company. [email protected]
Girlfriend. Japanese man, 45, decent, cultured, with a good sense of humor, seeking a lady of any age, Japanese or
foreign, to enjoy friendship. [email protected]
Good-looking European guy, 30, from the UK, athletic, respectful, seeks sexy Japanese woman, under 35, for casual fun in central Tokyo. If interested, send me a photo. [email protected]
Handsome black guy, 30, slim, athletic body, still studying Japanese, living and working in Tokyo, is seeking a nice woman for a serious relationship and maybe more. [email protected]
Japanese girlfriend. British man, new to Japan, seeks Japanese girlfriend to show him around. Me: 173cm, blue eyes, blond hair, medium build, likes music, reading, etc. [email protected]
Japanese male desu. Seeking a new relationship with a nice female who is open-minded and likes to communicate. I'm a SJM, cool and honest, not a party animal, love freedom. I enjoy movies, rock music, novels, the ar ts, etc. [email protected]
Japanese male, 42, single, seeks sincere, warm, open-minded white female for friendship and romance. I am generous, nonsmoking, like traveling, reading, philosophy and enjoying my life. [email protected]
Let's enjoy our lives. Married JM is seeking married or single women for discreet meetings. Any age welcome. Your photo will get mine. I'm f it, being built up by riding my bicycle. [email protected]
Lonely Latino in Tokyo. Single male, mid-30s, lonely in Tokyo, seeking discreet fun times with a JF, 20-50, married/attached/single ok. Central Tokyo. Serious replies only. Looking forward to hearing from you. Your photo gets mine. [email protected]
Lonely, romantic married gentleman seeks a lonely woman. I miss romantic moments with a sweet woman. Can we be friends? Sweet, attractive white gentleman, 47, hopes to meet you. [email protected]
Massage for curvy lady. Tall, elegant, refined Caucasian businessman, fit, mature, experienced, of fers deep, relaxing and sensual full-body massage with aromatic oil, followed by dinner, to curvy Japanese lady. Totally safe and discreet—just relax and enjoy. [email protected]
Mature man for mature woman. At tractive, mature European man, 50, seeks a Japanese lover. I prefer somebody around my age (40s-60s). I am highly cultured and like Japanese ladies very much. [email protected]
Mt. Fuji climb. Hi, my name is Michael. I'm American, 51, seeking a woman who would like to climb Mt. Fuji with me in late July or early Aug. Let's have coffee. [email protected]
N e e d l o v e. H a n d s o m e E n g l i s h gentleman, moderate build, mid-30s, needs beautiful, passionate JF. I am handsome, fun, intelligent, well-mannered and empathic. Let's have romance together. Please send photo w/email. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. [email protected]
Seeking girlfriend. Cool guy, 40, kind, seeks mature JF, 40s-50s, for romance in Tokyo. Let's meet up for coffee and talk. Serious only, please. [email protected]
S e e k i n g s e r i o u s r e l a t i o n s h i p. European guy, early 40s, positive, easygoing, gentle, romantic, lots of hobbies, seeking female, 35-55, open-minded, easygoing, enjoys simple things. Speak Nihongo. No busy people, please. [email protected]
Soft, kind, romantic and also fun, passionate, and British. That's me. And I'm seeking you—if you're warm, romantic, open-minded. 日本語でも大丈夫... たぶん. 笑. Please introduce yourself when you write. [email protected]
Temple pilgrimage lady mate. European man, 40s, seeking temple pilgrimage lady mate and cultural exchange over hiking on weekends. [email protected]
14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN
L A V I S H D A T E S A N D I N D U L G E N T N I G H T S — W E C R E A T E O P P O R T U N I T I E S for elite foreign males to meet e le g ant J ap anese fem ales . Start with a luxurious dinner date, take the night where you wa nt i t to g o. Fre s h , y o u n g women join our club every day. 0 1 2 0 - 9 7 8 - 6 4 9 ( E ) [email protected] http://universe-club.jp/en
Are you a SWM? I am a tall, slender, cool SJF, early 40s, seeking a SWM for having a good time on weekends or relaxing, and/or fun evenings, around central Tokyo. [email protected]
Elegant yet natural woman seeks romance and love in a long-term relationship. Well-educated, healthy, charming European or North American preferred. We all want a bit more warmth in l ife. I'm mid-40s. Singles only. [email protected]
Fine combo. Very soft, but I can be tough, fun. Educated Japanese, 46, feeling blessed from head to toe, with Western spunk and exotic Asian sweetness, seeks an honest single gentleman. You're American/British/Australian/Japanese, my age or older. [email protected]
Lost and lonely in Tokyo? Mature only. I'm still seeking a single/divorced guy, 50s preferable, faithful, smart, financially and mentally stable and tough. Me: SJF, late 40s, voluptuous, brainy, spontaneous and workaholic. More later. [email protected]
Mountain woman. If you are fond of the aurora, stars, snow, mountains, animals, the other dimensions... we might have a chance. I am a SJF, 50, fit, open-minded, artistic, intelligent and love all the above. [email protected]
Occupy me! I'm a SJF, 25, living in Shizuoka, seeking a gentle SWM of a similar age for a serious relatioship. I can't speak much English. If you don't mind, please send me your info. [email protected]
Rebirth our lives. Seeking love and a relationship, eventually partnership. Japanese female, people say attractive and sweet yet intriguing and unique, seeking a well-educated, active, smart gentleman with a positive outlook on life. Singles only. I am 40s. [email protected]
Seeking Frenchman for ser ious relationship. I'm a SJF, 30s, interested in France, seeking a relationship with a sincere and intelligent Frenchman, 25-50. No language exchange or games, please. Serious only. [email protected]
SJF in Tokyo, 40, seeks SWM, around 40, in Tokyo, for a serious relationship starting from friends. I'm young-looking, down-to - ear th, nonsmoking, into traveling, reading, history, museums, sports, etc. [email protected]
Tall woman seeking American or European man. Tall, voluptuous single woman is seeking a single or divorced American or European, preferably 30-45, professional, tall, confident. Honestly, I am not interested in petit men. [email protected]
14.5 ESCORTS
ESCORTS have gone online. To f i n d a l o v e l y l a d y comp anion, v is i t ht tp: //classifieds.metropolis.co.jp/category/personals/escorts.
14.6 AND OTHERS
TRANCE PARTIES. Attractive couple (European/Japanese) is seeking one or two women to join us for dinners and trance parties. All expenses paid—just enjoy. [email protected]
FRIDAY, JUNE 26 7PM-11PMFree entry - ¥500 Drinks
インターナショナルパーティー ・ 入場無料 ¥500ドリンク
Metropolis June Getsumatsu Party, brought to you by Social Club Tokyo!Join us at the Social Club Tokyo in Shibuya for our June Getsumatsu bash!
Enjoy ¥500 drinks and mingling with Metropolis sta� and readers.
6月のメトロポリス月末パーティーは Social Club Tokyo で開催されます!渋谷のSocial Club Tokyoで今月の月末パーティーが開催されます!¥500ドリンクを味わいながら、メトロポリスのスタッフと読者と楽しい時間を過ごしましょう!
MORE INFO» http://meturl.com/jun15
B1F/B2F 2-17-3 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku
住所: 渋谷区渋谷2-17-3 B1F/B2Tel: 03-6826-8438
http://socialclubtokyo.com
FRIDAY, MAY 29 7PM-11PM
MORE INFO» http://meturl.com/may15
Free entry - ¥500 Drinks & Food
インターナショナルパーティー ・ 入場無料 ¥500ドリンク・フードメニュー有り
CARAT6-1-6 Roppongi, Minato-ku, TokyoTel: 03-5413-3689 - http://carat-roppongi.com
Many more classified ads online! Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp
30
Free consultation in �uent EnglishForeign hair experts for women & menNo use of thinning scissors without prior consultationImported hair colors and sample chart for Western hairNo hard selling of beauty productsNo personal questions.We concentrate on our job and let you relaxFriendly atmosphere and groovy music
31
J O B S 03-4588-2277
To advertise: [email protected]
CHAT HOSTS AND TEACHERS WANTED BY LEAFCUP in Tokyo, Iidabashi, Shibuya, Yokohama. Seeking enthusiastic, proficient English, French, Spanish and/or German speakers who can teach and lead lively conversations. ¥1000-¥1500/h. A p p l y o n l i n e : h r @ l e a f c u p . c o m www.leafcup.com/job.php
JOIN US IN INTRODUCING JAPAN TO THE WORLD. Seeking energet ic , bilingual individuals with a passion for travel and interest in tourism. We offer excellent career paths and
promotion prospects and are an equal-opportunity employer. Our workplace is conveniently located 2min from Roppongi Stn. Positions available include account manager, d e s i g n e r , d e v e l o p e r , p r o j e c t manager. Visit our jobs page for details. To apply, please send your resume to info@japantravel .com. http://en.japantravel.com/jobs
SEARCH ENGINE EVALUATOR. Leapforce is seeking highly educated individuals for an excit ing work-from-home opportunity. Applicants must be self-motivated and internet savvy. [email protected] http://bit.ly/1HuylgD
METROPOLIS is seeking a motivated E/J bilingual admin intern. Transportation and business expenses provided. Please send E/J resume to [email protected].
WINE SALESPERSON sought to call on hotels, restaurants and bars to offer our high-quality wines at incredible prices. Candidates should be confident, passionate about wine, love f ine dining and travel, have experience in sales, wine or both. Mon-Fri, 10:30am-7:30pm. Position available immediately. Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected].
O R G O G L I O D E L C A S A LTA I TA L I A N RE STAUR ANT i s seek ing ser v ice s t a f f . E /J c o n v e r s a t i o n s k i l l s n e c e s s a r y , I t a l i a n r e s t a u r a n t experience a plus; f ive days/week, 4-11pm; transportation and meals provided; opportunities for full-time employment ¥1000 - ¥1200/h. 1F Hiroo Bldg, 3-12-40 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku Contact: 03-6418-5896/090-2776-3182 o r d o n o r g o g l i o @ g m a i l .co m w w w.orgogliodelcasalta.com
A U T O P A R T S E X P O R T E R S E E K S CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF to receive orders and ship goods. Requirements: aged 24-33, strong work ethic, visa, international driving permit, English and Japanese abi l i t y. Ful l - t ime. Salar y : ¥270,000/m. Probat ion period: ¥200,000. Bonus: twice/year. Location: 311-4 Naganumahara-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Japan [email protected]
WINE BAR MANAGER WANTED. French wine bar in Ebisu is now seeking a full-time wine bar manager and part-time hall staff. Experience and wine knowledge necessary. Great opportunity for the right candidate.日本人歓迎. [email protected] www.cavowinebar.jp 03-5458-2005
SALES REPS WANTED: TOKYO, SAPPORO, NAGOYA, OSAKA, KYOTO, FUKUOKA. If you feel worth high earnings as an independent, motivated, passionate sales rep in the wine business, we should talk. Must speak intermediate Japanese. [email protected] [email protected] www.estatewinesjapan.com 078-777-6616
ART MODEL NEEDED. Nude model required for sophisticated art project. Willing to offer attractive modeling fee. Privacy is 100% respected. Serious only. Mail: [email protected]
PART-TIME ENGLISH-SPEAKING TEST FACILITATORS. The Japan Institute for Educational Measurement is developing an English test. We are recruit ing par t- t ime faci l i tators. Must be a native English speaker with valid working visa, living in the Tokyo area. Must attend paid training session. ¥1700/50min test session. To apply: https://business.form-mailer.jp/fms/7273437442779
horoscopeBY CATHRYN MOE
Leos are in good shape with Venus in
your solar twelfth house. You can tell
something wonderful is coming in,
though it’s still held in your dream realm. Friends
are working double-time to set up a situation that
enhances your days; partners may have some-
thing to hide. You won’t even need to exert effort
for this to rise to the surface—just be yourself
and enjoy the grand trine that makes conversa-
tions and abundance flow easily in your life.
TAURUSApr 21-May 21 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣
ARIESMar 21-Apr 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣ Jun 22-Jul 23 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
GEMINIMay 22-Jun 21 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣
Shocks to your subconscious continue
to amaze. Uranus in your solar twelfth
house has been negotiat ing the
Moon’s south node for some time. While you
may understand the past life connections, you
probably aren’t in the mood to be reminded.
Considering your current schedule, anyone
who’s a help is welcome; those who are a hin-
drance are sent packing. The time for dreams
and reverie is evaporating as you take charge
and make a new commitment.
Your b i r thday energ ies con -
t inue. The Sun connects with
Mercury exactly as this weekend
arrives. A hidden or confusing situation could
be revealed, even in the midst of this planet’s
retrograde. Saturn is retrograde too, currently
at zero degrees. It’s about to leave your rela-
tionship sector, sliding its focus back onto work
and volunteering to help others. If you thought
you were free and clear, you’ll be thinking
again—or possibly planning a trip to get away?
You’re likely to get a bonus, working
or not. You may not even have to
lock it in, as Venus in Cancer would
like to see you spend a little on yourself. The
Sun, Mercury, and Mars in your solar twelfth
house all push to bring something to the sur-
face, but it’s not time yet. No need to feel guilty
that you’re not doing more at this very minute.
Give yourself space as the planetary energies
direct and focus what needs to be done. The
upcoming weeks will be calling you.
As you open your vision to things
you never thought you’d see, your
soul takes on responsibilities. What
you came in for just seems to go on and on.
You’re burning through the past, the present,
and some of the future right this moment. How-
ever, the building blocks of how this world will
soon be operating are very much part of your
domain. Your spirit absolutely knows what to
do. Give your body rest and recharge yourself
to enjoy revving up once more.
CANCER
♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck
LIBRASep 24-Oct 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣
SCORPIOOct 24-Nov 22 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
LEOJul 24-Aug 23 ♥♥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♣♣♣
VIRGOAug 24-Sep 23 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
There are new rules and precedents
being considered and put into place.
No one is more aware of this than
you. With all of your free time, which currently
may not exist, you’ll be able to run with the best
of them—philosophically, legally, or morally.
The ethics that are being decided will affect
a larger group than previously thought. Get
someone who’s good with details to pick up the
bits and pieces if emotions distract you.
You’re off and running, though you
may be wishing for peace and quiet.
There’s a new you emerging. Part of
you is able to regenerate and self-repair on the
go; the other part is on hold, waiting for special
moments when you can rest. Let a window of
options present itself: Learn to swim, learn to
dance. Keep releasing thoughts that don’t serve
you. Spend your energy building yourself up so
you have enough to share with those you love.
There are planetary angels circling you
at the moment. You’re the fulcrum, the
balance of what’s above and below.
Don’t believe it? Check your chart. Saturn is
retrograde at zero degrees, on the precipice
of entering Scorpio again. The more mindful
you are of each step you take, the better the
outcome. This is true at all times, but currently
your pacing and confidence about your priority
list can make a whole lot of difference.
AQUARIUSSAGITTARIUSNov 23-Dec 22 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣♣
CAPRICORNDec 23-Jan 20 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
PISCESJan 21-Feb 19 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣ Feb 20-Mar 20 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣
You may find that lately you appreciate
those who think for themselves—more
so because they can be scarce. With
Dark Moon Lilith opposite Pisces, a partner or
person who reflects your inner self may kick up a
fuss. If someone has made a mistake or takes your
hard work for granted, you’re likely to show them
just how valuable you are. A water sign, you’re
able to absorb a lot, including others’ feelings.
However, right now, focus on personal definition.
You’re a freedom fighter and a harbin-
ger for the truth on your own terms.
Both Pallas Athene and Saturn are
retrograde in your sign. Rather than it being
tiresome, however, you’re enticed to go deeper
into research with excellent results. Although
you love the excitement of the chase, do del-
egate if you’ve got an expert in your sphere.
They’ll be pleased to provide real assistance
as you are designated to receive it.
Your sign is part of a grand trine with
the Libra Moon on Friday, and the
Sun, Mercury, and Mars all week long.
You may notice what you’re thinking becomes
reality just a little bit more easily. Of course,
it’s important to check on your thoughts in the
midst of this! Travel or plans with friends slow as
you have a ton of things to check out. In the end,
your high standards bring you the best—a spar-
tan budget doesn’t mean you won’t find luxury.
You may be sorting out what you want
to keep and what goes. Venus has
moved past last week’s perfect oppo-
sition, so you’re on the completion end of this
cycle—how you feel, where your energy goes,
and possessions. Communications are all over
the place, and for some Capricorns, it’s changing
to the point that it has mutated. For those in film
and music, your path is one of universal healing.
Healing yourself, you show the world how to do it.
My husband and I have very different definitions of “spicy.” I can down a
jalapeño without batting an eyelash, yet I have to scrape off a bit of wasabi
when I order sushi from a fancy restaurant. Anything more than a dash
gives me a horrible headache and burning in my sinuses. My husband
cannot handle red peppers, hot sauce, or Indian curry—but has the high-
est tolerance for wasabi I’ve ever seen. I guess we all tolerate spicy food
differently, depending on our childhood diet.
RELATIONSIS THIS SPICY?BY GRACE BUCHELE MINETA
■ Grace Buchele Mineta is an author who blogs and draws comics
about her daily life in Japan at www.HowIBecameTexan.com.
これは辛い?夫と私の「辛い」食べ物の定義はとても違います。恥ずかしい話ですが、私は寿司屋
さんに行く度に、お寿司についているわさびを取らなくてはダメなんです。ほんの少
しのわさびでも、頭が痛くなって鼻がツーンとします。でもハラペーニョは丸 1々つ、何
の問題もなく食べられちゃいます。夫は唐辛子、ホットソースやインドカレーの辛さが
苦手で全然食べられないのに、わさびは全然平気なんです。幼い頃から慣れ親しん
だ食生活によって、何を辛いと感じるかも色々あるみたいです。
32
the small printBY STEVE TRAUTLEIN
4 Consecutive years that the top eight
execs of ailing Sony Corp have returned
their bonuses
13 Age of soccer prodigy Takefusa Kubo,
who was signed by FC Tokyo this month
after a stint in Barcelona’s youth system
943 Number of times defense officials
scrambled fighter jets in response to
foreign aircraft approaching Japanese
airspace in fiscal 2014—the second
highest total on record
statsTHERE ARE FEWER OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN TO SPONTANEOUSLY EXERCISE, AND THEY ARE LOSING THEIR STAMINA.”—Yoshihiro Horigome, a fitness trainer, on
the rising popularity of exercise classes for kids
STRANGE DAYS ⊲An Ibaraki man biking home from work last
month was shot in the leg by an unidentified
assailant wielding a bow and arrow.
⊲After an outcry by human rights activists,
an auction house in New Jersey canceled the
sale of 450 pieces of art made by Japanese-
Americans held in WWII internment camps.
⊲It was reported that JAXA plans to land
a small spacecraft on the moon within the
next three years.
GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS ⊲Officials at the justice ministry say their new
hotline for hate-speech victims has received
nearly 100 calls in its first year of operation.
⊲But many users have complained that, in-
stead of receiving advice on how to deal with
their problems, staff told them it “was im-
portant … to help themselves.”
⊲Authorities at the agriculture ministry are
getting a jump on climate change by “de-
veloping heat- and drought-tolerant crops.”
⊲Police in Gifu say an 86-year-old woman
scammed the government out of ¥51 million
LINGO BOX
Small Print Updated Weekly → METURL.COM/SMALLPRINT
over the course of five decades by receiving
pension payments intended for her mother
and father, both of whom died in the 1960s.
GULP ⊲Seismologists claim the “increased activity”
they’re seeing in volcanoes nationwide can
be traced back to the March 11 megaquake.
⊲Officials at the environment ministry an-
nounced that fiscal 2013 was Japan’s second
worst year ever in terms of greenhouse gas
emissions.
⊲Authorities in 38 of the 41 prefectures partici-
pating in last month’s local assembly elections
say voter turnout was the lowest on record.
⊲A newspaper report revealed that Japa-
nese zoos had 96 koalas in 1997, but
now the number has fallen by nearly half.
SUFFER THE (ONLINE) CHILDREN
⊲The National Police Agency says 1,421 minors
were victims of crimes involving SNS and other
online communication tools last year. That’s the
most since the NPA began keeping track in 2008.
Compiled from reports by AP, Japan Today, The Japan Times, Jiji, The Tokyo Reporter, The Mainichi, The Japan News, AFP, Reuters and Kyodo
⊲An education ministry survey found 52 percent
of kids between fifth grade and junior year of
high school use smartphones or similar devices
“until just before going to sleep at night.”
⊲Maybe that’s why nearly two-thirds of parents,
in a TMG poll, say they’re worried about chil-
dren becoming addicted to smartphones.
⊲So it’s a good thing the technology ministry
has established a treatment center for teen-
aged internet addicts that helps kids become
“aware of interesting aspects of life in the real
world.”
THANKS FOR THAT ⊲Scientists with the Fisheries Research Agen-
cy have discovered that Japanese eels swim
“deeply during day [and] shallower at night.”
⊲The Kawasaki Gender Equality Center issued
a handbook for new fathers that includes such
advice as, “When you have time, take your child
to and from daycare instead of having your wife
do it” and “Get up 15 minutes earlier to talk with
your child.”
⊲The operator of a ferry that runs between To-
kyo and the Ogasawara Islands will spend ¥9.1
billion to build a bigger, faster ship. The number
of visitors to the area has surged since the islands
were granted World Heritage status in 2011.
⊲Bottom Story of the Week: “Archer Doll Finely
Re-Created” (via The Japan News)
Katsudōka (活動家) = Activist
Higaisha (被害者) = Victim
Kikō Hendō (気候変動) = Climate change
Shinpai suru (心配する) = To worry
Haishutsu (排出) = Emissions
At the Kosodate Kitchen cooking
school in Bunkyo-ku, children as
young as two can learn basic knife
skills and stovetop techniques.
at a glanceBY RODGER SONOMURA
33
a scapegoat for so many food-related
health problems.
My consumption of McDonald’s has
increased since I came to Japan, mainly
because, in Tokyo, the shops are full of
both students and young people, rather
than the sloths and chavs that used to
scare me away in the U.K. Fast-food joints
can also feel like something of a haven
for foreigners in Japan—a place where
not only is the menu familiar but you feel
like you fit in, like you’re supposed to be
there. It’s the opposite of the feeling I
get at the neighborhood izakaya or bar,
where the gaijin presence can detract
from the local ambience or make regular
Japanese customers feel uncomfortable.
For long periods of time, I took part
in a kind of junk-food tourism. I insisted
that visits to places like Mister Donut and
Krispy Kreme were part of the cultural
experience of Japan because they didn’t
exist in the U.K. I was actually baffled
and disappointed to find there was no
Dunkin’ Donuts in Japan, a place referred
to multiple times in the novels of Haruki
After a few years of living in Japan,
I found it hard to ignore the truth: the
figure staring back at me in the mirror
had become fatter.
So many people say Japanese food
is healthy—but that’s the traditional stuff
like natto, grilled fish, and vegetables.
There’s just as much—if not more—
“unhealthy” Japanese food, such as
karaage, tempura, and ramen, with its
heartburn-inducing oily soup.
With a 7-Eleven or Family Mart on ev-
ery corner, convenience culture leads to
repetitive snacking, which is more about
numbing the stresses and strains of the
fast-paced city life than actual hunger.
Sugar, caffeine, and junk food work as
antidepressants for those living in a city
so crammed and dehumanizing. Though,
nobody I know has ever successfully
eaten their way out of being fed up with
Tokyo—or any problem, for that matter.
Perusing the supermarket reveals
an array of options, but I don’t feel it’s
separated into unhealthy Western junk
food and life-prolonging Japanese fresh
food. Instead, one can go back and forth
from the cup ramen aisle to the bakery
snack section to the bento boxes, and
be baffled by how Japanese people
manage to stay so slim.
There are also a few eating strategies
that feel healthy, but are actually delu-
sional. I call this “the cereal effect.” This
is where you trick yourself into believing
foods that are obviously junk are healthy.
I’ve eaten excessive amounts of onigiri or
bentos as alternatives to so called “junk,”
but it’s difficult to see how any of these
processed options are doing anything
good for the body.
Japanese convenience stores and
supermarkets are full of food that might
seem innocent in comparison to chains
like McDonald’s, but that’s mostly
because “Mac” (as it’s affectionately
referred to by the Japanese) is used as
The views expressed in “The Last Word” are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of Japan Partnership Co. Ltd. or its partners and sponsors.
■ William Bradbury is a freelance
writer living in Tokyo
the last word
Murakami. In fact, craving-fulfillment trips
to Burger King were disguised as cultural
comparative studies; I made notes on
differences in the menu. It all ended with
me becoming a bloated slob, of course.
But in the moment, it grew difficult to
notice my expanding, flabby stomach,
because I no longer had the obvious
points of comparison I had back home.
Yet, I’ve got Japanese friends who
keep their figures against logic, as if
they’re characters from a comic book
or TV show. I questioned one friend
of mine who ate McDonald’s almost
daily and also drank beer heavily. He
replied, “Because I'm Japanese.” Sure,
he answered the question … but it de-
fies logic. If you have body dysmorphic
issues, they’re likely to be worsened
by living in Tokyo, where many people
have immaculate bodies as beauty and
fashion are ways of life. Being “slim” in
the U.K. is switched to “slightly tubby”
just by setting foot in Tokyo.
I’ve done lots of things I’m proud of
in Japan: I’ve travelled, seen temples,
and improved my language and teaching
skills. Yet, becoming a chubby young
man was not something I had on my
bucket list. Here’s hoping I can replace a
few of those nomihodai with a tabehodai
or two—of fruit, of course.
I’VE EATEN EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF ONIGIRI OR BENTOS AS ALTERNATIVES TO SO CALLED ‘JUNK’.”
The Battle of the Bulge
The difficulty of eating healthy in a land of convenience
BY WILLIAM BRADBURY
Illustra
tion
by C
hristi R
och
in
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34
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