fuji rock vs summer sonic

June 26 - Jul 9, 2015 Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine
www.metropolisjapan.com
無料 PRICELESS
CLASH OF FESTS
FUJI ROCK VS SUMMER SONIC
TAKE A HIKE! GOING AU NATUREL HORSING AROUND GIDDY-UP IN GOTEMBA
SECOND-HAND SOUNDS MUSICAL TREASURE HUNTS
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JUN 26-JUL 9, 2015 • #1109
EDITOR’S
LETTER
The ski grounds of Naeba experience a heat amplified by the
sounds of distorted guitars and drum solos in the air. The time of
year for Japan’s biggest music festivals is upon us again, beckoning bands and fans from all over. But as Fuji Rock faces off against
Summer Sonic, leaving you to ponder which outdoor festa to
headbang at, we at Metropolis give you the rundown on how
these two titans compare. Meanwhile, our editors galloped off to
the stables of Gotemba to experience the great outdoors in the
company of the friendly horses of Vitrus Riding Club. If you fancy
more adventures, go retro and trek through Tokyo’s record stores!
Photo by C Bryan Jones
Photo courtesy of Lactose Intoler-Art
14
16
Back in the Saddle: Visiting Virtus Riding Club
18
Play It Again Sam: Tokyo’s second-hand music shops
Dairy-Free Dressing: The Fashion of Lactose Intoler-Art
Cover design: Kohji Shiiki. Cover illustration: Adam Garwood
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03
upfront
123RF
LINGOIST
RAIN TALK
As we find ourselves in the midst of tsuyu, or rainy season, keeping dry can
prove to be quite a challenge. If talk about the weather is a frequent occurrence, but you’re not sure how to join in, let Metropolis show you the way!
JP
EN
JP
EN
JP
EN
JP
EN
Soto wa ame futtemasu ka?
Is it raining outside?
Para para to futtemasu.
It’s sprinkling.
Yohō de wa yūgata ni kekkō furutte ittemashita.
The forecast said that it would rain a lot in the evening.
Kasa nashi de daijyōbu kana...
I hope I’ll be okay without an umbrella...
K
A
N
A
1
C
2
3
D
4
5
が
B
6
7
8
9
10
C
11
12
A
Solution:
A
B
C
D
ANSWERS AT meturl.com/kanacross
04
R
O
S
S
Across
1. Red pepper or chili
4. Cloud
5. Music
7. Up
8. A trap
11. Squirrel
12. Rabbit
Down
1. Mountain climbing
2. Easy or comfortable
3. Fingerprint
5. Another helping or refill
6. Airport
9. Eggplant
10. Right
TO-DO LIST
ice cream stores
TOP
3
Shiroichi
Gelateria Acquolina
Buon’amore
Most famous for their long, nama (raw) ice cream
on a cone (¥390) that can also be enjoyed in
coffee or milk (¥470), Shiroichi uses natural,
carefully-selected ingredients that are processed
as little as possible. Open daily 10am-10pm.
1F Andos II Bldg., 1-7-7 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-6416-5574.
www.shiroichi.com
Indulge in delicious, rich gelato and sorbet,
including unique flavors only found at Acquolina.
Open weekdays, 1:30-11pm, weekends &
hols 12-11pm. Closed Tue. 1-11-10 Gohongi,
Meguro-ku. Yūtenji. Tel: 03-5708-5787.
www.acquolina.jp
Buon’amore’s gelato is served popsicle style—
on a stick. The treats are made without added
sugar, and use organic ingredients. Flavors
include Honey Latte and Honey Coconut. Open
11am-7pm Tue-Fri & Sun, 11am-8pm on Sat.
Closed Mon. 1F Tenjin Bldg., 67-8 Tenjincho,
Shinjuku-ku. Kagurazaka or Edogawabashi.
Tel: 03-6265-3030. http://buon-amore.com
© Cy Twombly Foundation / Courtesy Cy Twombly Foundation
Proteus, 1984
76 x 56.5 cm
acrylic paint,
color pencil,
pencil on paper
JUL 11-12
OCEAN PEOPLES
A festival for ocean lovers
everywhere, Ocean Peoples
explores beach food, music,
art, and tourism, while raising
awareness of the importance of
ocean preservation. Jul 11-12,
11am-8pm, free. Yoyogi Park.
Harajuku or Meiji-Jingūmae.
http://oceanpeoples.com/english
Photo by Takeshi Hirabayashi
JUL 12
OGRE YOU ASSHOLE
Dreamy, domestic indie-rock warriors
Ogre You Asshole celebrate the
release of their new live album,
Workshop. Jul 12, 6pm, ¥3,600.
Akasaka Blitz. Akasaka.
Tel: 03-3584-8811. http://j.mp/
ogreyou2015
UNTIL AUG 30
EDITOR’S PICK
CY TWOMBLY—FIFTY YEARS OF
WORKS ON PAPER
The fluid, sensual works of American painter Cy
Twombly (1928-2011) are on show in the first-ever major
exhibition in Japan devoted to the artist. On display
are around 70 drawings, paintings, and monotypes by
Twombly, whose freely-scribbled, graffiti-like works are
associated with Abstract Expressionism. Still, Twombly
found fans everywhere for his spirited sense of line and
color. Dan Grunebaum
Until Aug 30, 11am-5pm (until 8pm on Wed). Closed
Mon. ¥500-1,100. Hara Museum of Contemporary Art.
Shinagawa. www.haramuseum.or.jp
© Hiratsuka City
JUL 9-AUG 7
SHŌWA BEER GARDEN
Travel back in time at Grand Hyatt’s Shōwa Beer
Garden with popular music from the era; Shōwainspired Japanese snacks; and free-flowing alcohol,
including beer, highballs, and more.
Jul 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, & 31; Aug 7, 5-9pm.
4F Chapel Garden, Grand Hyatt Tokyo. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-4333-8838. http://tokyo.grand.hyatt.com
JUL 3-5
SHŌNAN HIRATSUKA
TANABATA MATSURI
Join in the tanabata festivities, which
celebrate the meeting of the deities
Orihime and Hikoboshi, including
parades (held two times) with large,
colorful decorations, food stalls,
game booths, and more. Jul 3-5, until
9pm (until 8pm on Jul 5), free. The
area including and around the JR
Hiratsuka Station North Entrance
shopping street. Hiratsuka.
www.tanabata-hiratsuka.com
JUL 22
NEW YORK SYMPHONIC ENSEMBLE
Conducted by Mamoru Takahara, the ensemble performs Mozart’s Violin Concerto No.
3, Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto, and more. Jul 22, 7pm, ¥3,000-4,000. Suntory Hall.
Roppongi-itchōme. Tel: 03-5953-9481. http://j.mp/itochusummer2015
05
CLASH O
cover story
FUJI ROCK VS
FUJI ROCK
FUN FAQ
First festival: 1997 event
at Fuji Tenjin-yama Ski
Resort headlined by the
Foo Fighters and Red Hot
Chili Peppers was canceled
midway due to a typhoon.
Stages: Five main stages,
eight smaller stages
•Bands: 80 per day
•Customers: 120,000
•Staff: Approximately 2,100,
including volunteers
•Buses: 80 buses, 30
coaches on daily rotation
•Hotel rooms for bands:
3,460 rooms required over
the festival
•Porta-potties: 450
•Food: 120 official food
vendors
•Beer: 150,000 cans sold
•Sound systems: 20
installed, big and small
•Campers: 10,000 per day
•Circus performers:
Approximately 15
•Most unusual tour rider:
A helicopter—for a DJ who
never came
06
•Most “rock” thing a band
has done: Completely
smashed their executive
Portakabin
(Thanks to Smash’s Johnnie
Fingers.)
INFO
•When: July 24-26, 2015
•Where: Naeba Ski Resort in
Niigata
•Tickets: ¥16,800 (one day)¥39,800 (three days)
www.fujirockfestival.com
SURVIVAL KIT
•Galoshes or rubber sandals
•Raincoat, preferably Gore-Tex
•Camping chair
•Flashlight
Tip: Arrive Thursday morning
for a level campsite and the
Thursday-night bon odori
pre-party
J
apan’s marquee rock
festivals, Fuji Rock
and Summer Sonic,
started along similar
lines: sprawling outdoor
affairs near Mt. Fuji that
cater to all visitors. But
almost two decades later,
they’re radically different
creatures. Metropolis lines
the two up to see just how
distinct they’ve become.
FUJI ROCK
THE SKINNY
Eminem once headlined Smash’s Fuji Rock
Festival, but it’s hard to imagine that happening now as Smash boss Masa Hidaka’s preference these days is for stadium-scale rock
bands that can bring out a broad demographic.
With Japan’s youth population dwindling, the
aim is to cater to several generations of music fans. The cost of travel and accommodation for punters attending Fuji is considerable,
limiting attendees to settled employees with
disposable income and a still-large number of
younger folk who scrimp and save for a oncea-year blowout.
CH-CH-CHANGES
The big development this year is the end of Fuji
Rock’s Orange Court stage. When the festival
exploded in its early years, the stage emerged
as a locus for world music, funk, blues, and jazz.
OF FESTS
S SUMMER SONIC
BY DAN GRUNEBAUM
SUMMER SONIC
FUN FAQ
Photos courtesy of Smash
With audience figures down last year, Smash
seems to have made the decision to consolidate—but that still leaves it with thirteen stages.
HEADLINERS
Foo Fighters: Dave Grohl’s indefatigable
rawk machine recently released Sonic Highways, an ambitious “musical map of America”
accompanied by an HBO documentary. Grohl
is always psyched to be in Japan, and can be
counted on to crowd surf his way to the soundboard. Pioneering artists, they are not; yet they
carry the ’90s alt-rock torch with, at the very
least, a sense of dignity.
Muse: A venue as big as Fuji’s Green Stage
requires an act as bombastic as England’s
Muse. By the time you read this, Matthew Bellamy’s behemoth will have released its new
Drones—a troll through a world, Bellamy said
on Twitter, of “psychopathic behavior with no
recourse.”
•First festival: 2000 event at
Fuji-Q Highland amusement
park, headlined by James
Brown and Green Day
•Stages: Six music stages,
plus two entertainment
stages
•Bands: About 100
•Customers: 120,000
•Food: About 300 stalls
•Staff: 3,000, not including
vendor staff
•The most “rock” thing
a band has done: Nine
Inch Nails performed in a
thunderstorm
(Thanks to Creativeman’s
Yoshinari Hirayama.)
INFO
•When: Aug 15-16
•Where: Makuhari Messe
•Tickets: ¥15,500 (one
day), ¥28,500 (two days),
¥30,000 (platinum ticket);
Sonic Mania: ¥10,500;
Hostess Club All-Nighter:
¥8,500
www.summersonic.com
SURVIVAL KIT
•Hat
•Sunscreen
•Neck towel
Tip: To get a seat on the
jammed trains on your return
to Tokyo, take the train
one stop outbound from
Makuhari, cross the tracks,
and board an inbound train.
07
CLASH O
cover story
Ride: A less egotistic, more likable and tuneful Stone Roses on the comeback trail.
Of Monsters and Men: Tween rock, yet consistently imaginative.
Galactic featuring Macy Gray: Incomparable New Orleans funk meets gravel-voiced
soul singer for hire.
SUMMER SONIC
THE SKINNY
Creativeman’s first Summer Sonic featured
James Brown. These days, the headliners
could be Brown’s grandkids. Creativeman
honcho Naoki Shimizu caters to the tweento-twenties bracket, which still makes up a
reasonable fraction of the Tokyo and Osaka
megalopolises where he hosts Summer Sonic. Easily accessible urban venues make for
a wallet-friendly day out, but for those who
seek the full festival experience, the addition
of Friday and Saturday all-nighters effectively
makes Summer Sonic a three-day festival.
CH-CH-CHANGES
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds: Sure,
compared to brother Liam’s now-defunct
Beady Eye, they got the songwriting talent out
of the Oasis breakup. But how many songs
can you name? Time to bone up. Their second
and latest album is the self-deprecatingly titled
Chasing Yesterday.
A new development is the integration of
Hostess Club—an indie rock fest hosted
by promoter and distributor Hostess—into
Summer Sonic’s lineup as the Saturday allnighter. The event features the live edition of
Thom Yorke’s latest solo project, the intriguing Thom Yorke Tomorrow's Modern Boxes,
Spiritualized, and more acts associated with
Hostess.
LOCAL COLOR
SURVIVOR AWARDS
Motorhead: Lemmy’s U.K. metal machine
rages on, 40 years since their founding as the pioneers of the “new wave” of British heavy metal.
Happy Mondays: 35 years later, Manchester rave squad has survived its days of Pills ‘n’
Thrills and Bellyaches, an album they plan to
haul out on tour later this year.
Todd Rundgren: Having produced The
Band’s Stage Fright and Meat Loaf’s Bat Out
of Hell, 67-year-old pop wunderkind Rundgren
also penned his own hits, like “Hello, It’s Me.”
PICKS
FKA twigs: A sinuous British mixed-race
Björk for the electro era, FKA’s slithering temptations are not to be denied.
Royal Blood: Drum ‘n’ bass/rock duo blithely smashes together grunge, rap, and clichés
of alt-rock. Think Rage Against the Machine
meets Jack White.
08
Sheena Ringo: Her thin, wavering vocals are
an acquired taste, but the Fukuoka chanteuse’s
unwavering ambitions are to be applauded.
Hiromi Uehara Trio: Jazz supergroup led by
the irrepressibly virtuosic pianist known worldwide simply as “Hiromi.”
Clammbon: Candy-voiced outfit blends
rock, pop, and electro with sometimes sublime results.
Jim O’Rourke and Gaman Gilberto: Veteran
Chicago experimentalist, one-time Sonic Youth
member, and longtime Tokyo expat meets his
mysterious alter ego.
OF FESTS
Photos courtesy of Creativeman
HEADLINERS
Imagine Dragons: My nine-year-old son’s
favorite band, which gives you an idea of Summer Sonic’s target demographic. Hey, half a
billion YouTube views don’t lie. 2013’s Rolling
Stone Band of the Year.
Pharrell Williams: Time for Tokyo to get
lucky—or happy? Pharrell has been huge in
Japan ever since his Neptune and N.E.R.D.
days. He’s also tight with Bathing Ape fashion
icon Nigo, making this a homecoming of sorts.
Ariana Grande: With her four-octave range
and belief in Kabbalah teachings, Floridian
Grande covers all the pop-tart bases from Mariah Carey to Madonna. Her winsome, corporate
sponsor-friendly appeal has made her a regular
since her first Japan visit on New Year’s, 2013.
SURVIVOR AWARDS
Manic Street Preachers: 20 years since
their definitive album The Holy Bible was released, the Manics round out a year of shows
performing the disc.
Jon Spencer Blues Explosion: Black Keys
et al. owe a major debut to these originators of
postmodern skronk-blues, who have just issued
Freedom Tower – No Wave Dance Party 2015.
The Original James Brown Band: Longtime
JB associate leads the last band James Brown
assembled before his death in 2006.
Zapp: Roger and Larry Troutman may be
gone, lost in the murder-suicide carried out by
Larry, but the mantle of Zapp’s talkbox ele-funk
is carried on by surviving brothers Lester and
Terry. Both the James Brown Band and Zapp
appear as a collaboration with Billboard Live.
Olly Murs: A lily-white Bobby
Brown—and why not?
Chemical Brothers: Tom Rowlands
and Ed Simons brought stadium-scale
electronic music performances to the
masses long before EDM—and they’re
not slowing down. Born in the Echoes
is out in July, and “Go,” featuring QTip, is already racking up views on
YouTube.
Asian Calling: Summer Sonic’s Asian stage
offers a rare chance to take in performances by
determined young bands from China, Taiwan,
and Southeast Asia.
LOCAL COLOR
Androp: Likably crunchy power-pop dashed
with hints of electro and post-rock.
Baby Metal: 27 million views for “Gimme
Chocolate!!” means Japan’s latest musical export, the metal-idol act, must be hitting the right
notes with someone out there.
Kazuyoshi Saito: Old-school singer-songwriter got away with writing a Fukushima protest song and still carries on a mainstream
Japanese music career.
PICKS
D’Angelo and the Vanguard: Modern soul
icon returned last year after 15 years with the
highly-rated, socially-conscious Black Messiah.
Wolf Alice: North London quartet are garnering all sorts of accolades, thanks to the delicious, dreamy vocals of Ellie Rowsell. Their debut disc My Love Is Cool will be on the shelves
by the time you read this.
09
food&drink
RECIPE
CHILLED, HEARTY
JAPANESE
VEGETABLE SOUP
RECIPE AND PHOTO BY RIEKO SUZUKI
Among Japan’s summer favorites is “hiyajiru” or
“hiyashijiru,” a chilled soup containing tofu and
plenty of vegetables.
The soup takes shape in many regional
varieties, utilizing select ingredients from their
respective regions. Any vegetable can be used
in the soup, and it can be made more nutritious
by substituting water with soy milk.
Servings: 2
RESTAURANT
¥¥
EN/JP
A Taste of
Osaka in
Roppongi
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY VESNA KEVORK
L
ocated near Roppongi-itchome Station
is Santekan, a little gem that serves up
hearty okonomiyaki—a well-loved comfort
food that’s become a staple of Osakan
cuisine. Comprising pancake-like batter, meat,
squid, shrimp, or vegetables, it’s a dish that’s
cooked on the spot. Created by Wataru Toda,
who started the famous Kiji okonomiyaki house
in Osaka, Santekan is cheap, cheerful, and fun.
The vibe here is decidedly boisterous, with
raucous laughter and lively banter all around.
But rest assured, this is not a daytime izakaya.
It’s busy, casual, and filled with patrons coming
hungry and leaving satisfied.
10
• 300cc water
• 5g katsuobushi
(bonito flakes)
• 2 tbsp mentsuyu
(concentrated noodle
soup)
• 2 tbsp ground black
sesame
• 1 tbsp miso
• 200g firm momen tofu
• 1/2 cucumber
• 4 ohba or shiso leaves
• 4 pieces of okra
• 1 pack enoki mushrooms
• 1/2 cup cooked sliced
burdock
TOPPINGS
• 1 tbsp boiled and dried
chirimenjako (baby
sardines)
• 1 tbsp sliced myoga,
chives, and ginger
DIRECTIONS:
1. In large bowl, combine water, bonito flakes,
noodle soup, sesame, and miso.
2.Crumble tofu into chunks, and drain excess
water. Make thin slices of cucumber and ohba.
3.Chop enoki mushrooms, then boil with okra
for 1-2 min and drain.
4.Combine burdock, tofu, cucumber, ohba,
mushrooms, and okra into bowl with soup.
Chill for at least 1 h in fridge.
5.Garnish with toppings and serve in soup bowl.
The dishes are prepared
by chefs donning tall, white
hats—however, the restaurant
still maintains a do-it-yourself
ambience, probably due to the
hot plates on each table. The
okonomiyaki is served swiftly
and placed on the hot plate;
from there, it’s up to the guest
to cook the batter and enjoy it
as they please.
The vast and very affordable lunch menu presents
great choices for group outings. The okonomiyaki itself
is around ¥1,000, available in such options as
squid (¥880), squid and pork (¥950), beef tendon (¥1,000), Okonomiyaki of the Day (¥930),
mixed (¥1,080), and many more. Those wanting
an extra taste of Osaka may select the modanyaki (¥1,000), a mix of yakisoba and okonomiyaki, fried together—or you could just ask for
yakisoba (starting from ¥830).
People-watchers can observe the dedicated
chefs in action at the counter, perched over
Rieko Suzuki
Rieko blogs bilingual recipes at
http://meturl.com/ruby
the hot plate, performing theatrics alongside
unlimited batches of cabbage.
The most amusing parts of the dining experience in Sanketan are the few unexpected
elements that stand in complete contrast to the
establishment’s casual vibe. In the center of the
restaurant is a unique chandelier made of okonomiyaki spatulas. Meanwhile, the seats at the
back of the counter chairs open up, revealing
secret storage compartments.
Solitary patrons need not hesitate to enter,
as Santekan isn’t only for groups. The counter
provides single seats where diners may sit and
observe the theatrics up close.
Another attribute is that the subway is literally just steps away, making that last train home
or to the office less likely to be missed.
Interesting and fun, this venue is spot-on
for a much-needed get-together with friends.
Sizzling hot plates, the smell of fried cabbage,
squid and pork, rowdy crowds … what are you
waiting for?
Santekan. Ark Hills South Tower B1, 1-4-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-6441-3638. Roppongi-itchome. www.o-kizi.jp/santekan.html
RAMEN
¥¥
EN/JP
Tigers and Ramen
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY SEAN HORGAN
I
f you want authentic, delicious ramen, and a true Japanese experience, Menshō Taketora near Roppongi Station is the place to go.
Immediately upon entering, customers will feel as if they’ve walked
into a bamboo forest. The whole restaurant is covered with bambooladen wallpaper, with tigers prowling behind the stems.
The menu is simple but features an extensive selection of entrées,
appetizers, and desserts sure to make your stomach growl—not unlike
a tiger—in anticipation.
Overall, ser vice is
great and the restaurant
is foreigner-friendly. The
menu contains some
English, and most of the
staff are able to speak a
bit as well. The wait staff
are personable and easy
to talk to, and they bring
out the food fairly quickly—the wait for the ramen
was only 10 to 15 minutes.
The yuzu gyokai tonkotsu ramen (¥820) is a delicious bowl consisting of eggs, noodles, and vegetables—but best of all, pork. Each brothsoaked bite melts in your mouth.
The fish-based broth brings an interesting and unique flavor to the
noodles that words can’t quite explain. The hard-boiled egg adds to the
soup, cooked just enough so the yolk remains soft and juicy in the middle.
The deep-fried octopus (¥430) is an appetizer that isn’t easy to
forget, with a crust that gives it a popcorn-shrimp texture. Try it with
a spritz of freshly-squeezed lemon juice for a surprising but delightful sour punch.
The tiramisu daifuku (¥350) is inspired by the classic Italian dessert
and wrapped in mochi. Its distinct chocolate taste, sweetened with powdered sugar, resonates in your mouth for a while before fading into the
flavor of the ice cream-filled center.
For those wanting more to their dessert, the vanilla ice cream (¥300)
is a sweet choice, with caramel syrup lightly drizzled on top for a contrasting taste. Plus, the two dango (rice dumplings) at the bottom of the bowl
give an interesting texture, rendering the dessert not-so-vanilla after all.
The prices here are reasonable. Menshō Taketora is a good place to
go if you want to save money but still enjoy great food.
Menshō Taketora. Open daily, 11am-9am the following morning.
1F Roppongi 314 Bldg., 3-14-14 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3479-3388. www.menshou-taketora.com
DON’T MISS AN ISSUE – SUBSCRIBE NOW!
One year (24 issues) ¥3,600. Half year (12 issues) ¥1,800.
One year corporate subscribers: 7-100 copies ¥22,560.
Half year corporate subscribers: 7-100 copies ¥12,000.
Bank transfer or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club).
http://metropolisjapan.com/subscription
11
food&drink
If you're looking for a meaty
snack to carry along on your
hike or camping trip, Karikari—or
Crispy—Bacon is an ideal choice.
Each strip has a unique peppery
taste that gives it a slightly spicy
feel. With its dry and portable
strips, Karikari Bacon is like the
beef jerky of bacon. But even
though it has that beef jerky look,
it still has that delicious bacon
taste. Available in convenience
stores nationwide.
Another compact snack for the trail, Tirol Banana is for those who need their
chocolate fix but also want their fruit
flavors. Two variations of the yellowwrapped cubes are in each pack: one
crispy on the inside and one with a gelatinous center. While the taste is satisfying, what we're more eager for is the
day the two characters on the package
get their own sitcom. As their expressions show, there's gonna be some
tension in that apartment. Move over
peanut butter … banana is in the house!
Available in select convenience stores
and supermarkets nationwide.
Adding heat to the rising gourmet popcorn craze, POP!—a Seattleborn popcorn manufacturer known for its all-natural, gluten-free
treats—has introduced eight new flavors in their Japanese branch.
Four savory and four sweet flavors are here, including cheddar
jalapeño (¥700 for a medium size) and premium matcha (¥1,800
for medium). Grab a few bags for your hike—just don’t tell the ants!
6-6-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Omotesando.
http://popgourmetpopcorn.co.jp
Dried fruit is a great, healthy snack to
have while hiking, or anytime for that
matter. At Far East Bazaar, you can pick
and choose from an array of different
fruits such as figs, dates, and mango—
all sold by weight. Everything is organic,
fair-trade, and without any added ingredients. B2F ShinQs Shibuya Hikarie,
2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku. Shibuya.
Branches in Kichijoji and Futakotamagawa. http://fareastinc.co.jp/english
“They are so spicy tortilla chips,” boasts the packaging
on Doritos’ newest addition to its Japan-exclusive flavor catalog—and they’re right, despite the Engrish. The
Wasabi Soy Sauce—which sounds like the sixth Spice
Girl that never was—is an explosion of wasabi’s spicy
sweetness tinged with the bitterness of soy sauce.
While the green stuff is generally a hit-or-miss, this
one’s sure to win over fans of chips and Japanese
flavors. Available in most convenience stores and
supermarkets nationwide.
12
escapes
Photo credit by Kate Riseley
the Tokyo Metropolitan Takou-wan Park Family
Campsite on Kozushima, roughly four hours by
high-speed boat from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Pier;
and Habushiura Campsite on Niijima, roughly
three hours by high-speed boat from Takeshiba
Pier. Campers can enjoy pristine beaches, hiking, cycling, surfing, and more.
For cool, dry air, head west. The Karuizawa
area is full of campgrounds, such as Rising Field
Karuizawa and Yukawa Campground. River play,
onsen, hiking, cycling, and fruit picking are some
activities available in the Karuizawa area.
BACK TO
THE LAND
Escape the city heat with
some hiking and camping
BY HELEN A. LANGFORD-MATSUI
O
nce the summer humidity hits the city,
there’s no better place to be than out of it.
Luckily, it’s not too tricky to escape Tokyo,
whether for a day’s hike, a camping adventure,
or a combination of both.
HIKING
From Mount Takao and connecting trails in
Meiji-no-Mori Takao Quasi-National Park to
Mounts Mitake, Otake, and the Three Peaks
of Takamizu in the Okutama area of ChichibuTama-Kai National Park, one could easily fill a
summer’s worth of weekends without going
too far afield.
Most are easy day trips, though some, like
Mount Kumotori—the tallest mountain in the
Greater Tokyo Area at 2,017 meters—are better done in two. Camp in designated areas, in
emergency huts, or “glamp” at mountain lodges
along the trails.
Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park in
Kanagawa Prefecture offers another seemingly
endless supply of hiking trails near Tokyo. Mount
Oyama is best known, but options abound from
Yamakita, Hadano, Minami-Ashigara, and other
cities within the park. If you’re looking for height
and solitude, aim for a two-day Mount Tanzawa/
Hiru-ga-take como—just be prepared for a long
INFO
haul back to civilization and infrequent buses.
Those seeking bucket list-worthy hikes
should head to Yakushima National Park on
Yakushima, a subtropical island in southwestern
Japan, by air or boat from various locations.
Hikes through the Oku-dake and the Mae-dake
ranges will bring you into contact with wild deer
and monkeys, and the lush forests that inspired
Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke. Get
around by bus, taxi, rental car, scooter, or bike.
• Nagatoro Auto Camp-jp Nogami (Chichibu
Railway); www.nagatoro-camp.com (Japanese only)
• Tokyo Metropolitan Takou-wan Park Family
Campsite: www.kouzushima.org
• Habushiura Campsite: http://meturl.com/
niijimavillage
• Rising Field Karuizawa Karuizawa (Hokuriku
Shinkansen); www.rising-field.com (Japanese only)
• Yukawa Campground Karuizawa (Hokuriku
Shinkansen); www.facebook.com/yukawa.
campground (Japanese only)
• Karuizawa local guide: http://meturl.com/
karuizawamap
INFO
For detailed trail information and plenty of
ideas, check out http://ridgelineimages.com
and http://japanhike.wordpress.com.
• Mount Takao Takaosanguchi (Keiō Takao Line)
• Three Peaks of Takamizu Mitake (Ōme Line)
• Mount Kumotori Chichibu (Seibu Line, bus to
Mitsumine Shrine)
• Mount Oyama Isehara (Odakyu Line, bus to
Oyama Cable Car)
• Mount Tanzawa, Hiru-ga-take Shibusawa
(Odakyu Line, bus to Okura)
CAMPING
Nagatoro Auto Camp-jo, located not far from
Nogami Station, sits on the bank of the Arakawa River deep in the forested hills of Chichibu.
Swim, hike, river raft through Nagatoro Gorge—
or just sit back and listen to the cicadas.
Leave the mainland and sail away to the Izu
Islands, where tents can be pitched at places like
SAFETY FIRST
•Prepare for any weather with rain gear,
a lightweight jacket, extra socks, sturdy
hiking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
•Insects can spread disease, so wear long
sleeves and pants, use a DEET or a picaridin-based insect repellant, and consider
permethrin-treated clothes if hiking where
tick-borne severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) has been found.
•Not all trails and lodges have water or
snacks, so pack enough to get through
your planned hike with some left over.
•A whistle, emergency blanket, and basic
first aid kit should be part of your pack.
•Cell phone coverage is spotty to nonexistent in the mountains.
•Tell someone where you’re going and
when you expect to return, and stick to it.
Also have a plan in place if you don’t arrive
home by a certain time.
13
feature
SADDLE UP!
The perfect escape from Tokyo
is closer than you think
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY C BRYAN JONES
T
he hustle and bustle of life in the city can
really take its toll. Sometimes, only an
escape to nature can prevent insanity.
At such times, Gotemba beckons—but
not for the reason people usually head there.
Away from the frantic shopping at the premium
outlets is Virtus Riding Club, a tranquil, equine
world in the shadow of Mt. Fuji.
Those who rarely leave the city may find
it hard to believe that such a quiet place—an
atmosphere that feels lifted out of the past—exists barely two hours away by train. But it does,
and while there, visitors will forget all about the
chaos and stress they’ve left behind. That was
certainly true for us, as Metropolis recently had
the chance to visit Virtus Riding Club for two
days on the trails.
Founded 40 years ago by the father of
Mariko Kato, the current owner, and Rika Koyama, who led one of our rides, Virtus is a family
Rika Koyama
14
Mariko Kato
affair—and it shows. The entire staff feels like
a family, and upon setting foot on the ranch,
you become part of that family, too; this holds
true even for those who don’t speak Japanese.
Everyone at Virtus speaks English, and lead
trainer Hideaki Ototsu will teach riders all they
need to know for a horseback journey—with an
Australian twist. But more on that later.
What comes through loud and clear is that
everyone at Virtus loves horses. Spending ten
minutes with Mariko makes it clear that nothing
is more important to her than their well-being.
Photo by Rika Koyama
As she explains, horses are like people; they
each have their own personality. People get
to know them, and they get to know people.
Devotion goes both ways. It’s family.
Virtus is also a great place for kids. Spending time around animals is an important part
of their development, and the combination of
horses and nature is a wonderful escape from
our overly tech-saturated world. The whole Virtus family interacts so well with children, and
we watched one of their youngest students
compete in a jumping competition. Amazing!
After watching kids stare into smartphones
every day, seeing this level of talent and devotion—these students have to care for their
horses, as well as train—to something decidedly non-tech was heartwarming. For families,
this is a great weekend outing.
Some 150 members call Virtus home, and
the club offers two distinct styles of riding: British and Western. The British style, known as
“dressage,” is the kind of competitive equestrian sport you see in the Olympics and other
competitions such as the World Equestrian
Games. The Western style—as in the American West—is what this article will focus on, as
this is the riding style visitors will personally be
taking part in.
The Western style is what probably comes
to mind when thinking of horseback riding for
leisure. This is riding the trails. At Virtus, the
trainers will take guests on a trip into the forest
that neighbors the ranch. The complexity of
the trails and required control of the horse will
depend on the rider’s experience level.
During our visit, we ventured into the forest
on both Saturday and Sunday. The first outing was with lead trainer Hideaki Ototsu—or
simply “Aki,” as he prefers to be called—who
showed us the basics of handling the harness,
controlling the horse, and earning their trust.
As he explained, the relationship between rider
and horse is a two-way street. You take care of
them, and they’ll take care of you. But horses
are also strong-willed (hence the expression
“stubborn as a horse”), and they aren’t going to
do what’s asked if they don’t trust and respect
the rider as the boss.
Learning the basics is a lot easier than one
might think. Aki will quickly have even those
who’ve never been on a horse before feeling
at home in the saddle. Our first ride required
nothing complicated—except for keeping the
horses from eating all the grass and branches
they passed—and was truly relaxing. Beginners
will have no problem at all, and the Australianraised Aki is so personable that the experience
is not only soothing, but also entertaining!
Our second forest adventure, led by Rika on
Sunday, put our new skills to the test with more
challenging terrain that took us up and down hills
and through narrow passages—something beginners wouldn’t normally do so soon. It was awesome, and gave a taste of how returning to Virtus
regularly can offer new experiences.
While the horses are the centerpiece, Virtus
also offers a variety of facilities. The clubhouse
provides a place to relax on the first floor, and a
restaurant on the second. The view of Mt. Fuji
from the restaurant is breathtaking, and it’s the
perfect setting for parties, events, and even
concerts. There’s also a disco ball, should a
guest want to channel his or her inner Travolta.
Back on the ground level, a bar, powder room,
and shower room can also be found.
Not far from the clubhouse is the Western
Area, modeled after a Wild West
town. This quaint cowboy country is where visitors will find the
horses for trail rides—like our new
friends San and Chip—and also
plays host to barbecues. Behind
the Western Area is a field surrounded by white picket fences,
home to many ponies—a delight
for the kids.
Many members house their
horses—including some of Japan’s top competition horses—in
Virtus’ British stables. Touring this
facility, as well as the tack room, is a great
way to connect with the easy-going lifestyle.
Guests may even get to watch a horse being
washed.
Depending on the season, there are many
activities to add to your time in the country,
including a wagon parade, Christmas party,
night BBQ, and even a country dance event.
Want to ride in the snow? That can be done,
too.
At the end of the day, Virtus is one trip
you owe it to yourself to take. Even if a day
of horseback riding isn’t what you’d consider
your cup of tea, once you’re on the trail—glorious Mt. Fuji looming on the horizon—you’ll be
glad you saddled up. Mariko, Rika, Aki, and all
of the staff are absolutely delightful, and you’ll
leave feeling as though you’ve not only gained
a wonderful new connection to nature, but a
new family, too.
ACCESS
From Tokyo Station, take the Tōkaidō Line to Kōzu
Station, and change to Gotemba Line and continue
on to Gotemba Station.
From Shinjuku Station, take Odakyu Line’s Asagiri
Romance Car to Gotemba Station.
From Gotemba Station, Virtus is 15 minutes away
by taxi; fare is roughly ¥2,500.
Open 9am-5pm. Closed on Mondays, unless a
holiday falls on a Monday. Tel: 0550-70-6522.
www.virtus-im111.jp
15
city life
Standout genres: Latin pop and traditional,
Japanese folk
Quirkiest find: Merengue music videos
#1006 Miyamasuzaka Bldg., 2-19-15 Shibuya,
Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-5485-9967. Shibuya.
Reggae Shop NAT
RE-RECORD
Revisiting Tokyo’s secondhand music stores
BY MUBITA MAMBWE
T
here’s an element of adventure awaiting visitors in record stores, where the
scent of vinyl fills the room amid boxes
and cases piled throughout, each containing records—both the recent or popular, and
the ancient or obscure. Here, the curious and
the daring may be rewarded with hidden gems,
lost in an era when most music hounds dig up
tracks online.
Record store hopping is more of a rare experience, something of bygone days—making it all
the more exciting an activity. As Tokyo appears
to have an affinity for nostalgia, music hunters
are likely to make great discoveries in one of the
city’s plethora of second-hand music shops that
go beyond Disc Union and Book-Off.
Mash Records
A neon sign flashes this quaint little store’s
name in the quiet backstreets of residential
Kagurazaka, beckoning passersby into the
basement of Mash Records. From outside, guitars and ukuleles can be seen hanging by the
windows, already promising a quirky vibe.
Inside, crates full of records greet the visitor,
offering everything from Western disco hits to
mid-20th-century Japanese classics. Meanwhile, the walls are lined with cassette tapes—in
case you’re keeping it that old school—of predominantly enka and Japanese folk. However,
one corner of the room devotedly displays racks
of CDs, which range from ’70s rock and folk to
’90s dance and pop. Only here can you see
the fresh-faced Hanson brothers chilling next
16
to Alice Cooper’s mascara-stained look of disapproval.
For a trip further down memory lane, peruse
the shelf containing VHS tapes of rock shows
and pop videos.
Price range: On the cheap side, save the disc
collections and rarities
Standout genres: J-folk, U.S. classic rock
Quirkiest find: Ace of Base’s greatest music
videos on VHS
B1F Kyo Bldg., 15 Tenjicho, Shinjuku-ku.
Tel: 03-3269-5120. Kagurazaka.
El Sur Records
The area surrounding Shibuya Station might
boast a reputation as the mecca of eccentricity
purveyed by fashionable young urbanites, but
the Japanese affinity for world music is well and
alive at El Sur Records.
Located on the 10th floor of an unassuming
old, white building alongside Roppongi Dori,
El Sur is a tiny yet luminous treasure trove of
both Japanese and international gems. The
term “eclectic,” in regard to the records and
CDs that fill the shelves and racks, is an extreme understatement: the collections range
from post-war Japanese folk that’s worth purchasing if only to display the artistic, old-timey
cover art, to pop music discs and videos from
the depths of South and Southeast Asia and
Africa. There’s also some dance, ambient,
and electro. The predominant selections here
though are the Latin genres: salsa, Cumbia,
merengue, and Bachata records dating as far
back as the 1930s abound.
Great music for a summery vibe; pairs well
with margaritas.
Price range: Cheap to mid-range, except for
the rarities
There’s an appreciation for reggae among Japanese youth, though the love affair hasn’t gone
mainstream beyond the occasional Bob Marley
portraits questionably imprinted on designer
T-shirts. However, there are dedicated hubs
of reggae fandom spread throughout the city.
One such place is Reggae Shop NAT in
Nishi-Shinjuku. With its pink wooden sign out
front, the earthy store boasts a huge selection
of records, CDs, and even cassettes that covers
all of reggae’s bases: from the early ska and
rocksteady of the 1960s to ’90s dancehall and
post-millennial dub and reggaeton. There’s also
a large number of EPs under the Stone Love
label, featuring the likes of Elephant Man, Tony
Curtis, and Wayne Wonder; and mixtapes from
various underground artists.
Note: The store’s stock is heavy on records
but comparatively light on CDs.
Price range: Fair, considering the rarities
Standout genres: Reggae, dub, dancehall
Quirkiest find: Tribute to the Beatles Reggae
Style by various artists
1F Oak Plaza, 7-9-5 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjukuku. Tel:03-5337-7558. Shinjuku-nishiguchi.
Shinjuku Records
It’s safe to assume that where there are records,
there will be rock records—though not every
music store stocks as hefty a collection of heavy
metal, hard rock, and progressive rock as the
simply named Shinjuku Records.
The privately-owned store has been a part
of Shinjuku’s music landscape since it opened
in 1970, and is still run lovingly by some of the
shop’s founders. The history and dedication
adds to a charm present in Shinjuku Records
that is rare among Tokyo’s music shops. Rock’s
biggest stars as well as lesser-known gems
line the shelves, running the gamut from poprock to experimental rock. There’s also plenty
of metal, folk, and indie here, both new and
classic.
The store’s also got its share of collectors’
items, such as rare live albums from the likes of
Dream Theater, Linda Ronstadt, Blur, and Paul
McCartney from their Japan tours. Doesn’t rock
harder than that.
Price range: Mixed but generally affordable
Standout genres: Everything rock
Quirkiest find: Joe Perry’s Merry Christmas
#305 Daikan Plaza 756 Bldg., 7-5-6 NishiShinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-3363-3669.
Shinjuku-nishiguchi. www.mmjp.or.jp
CYCLING
WITHOUT HASSLE
BY SEAN HORGAN
O
wning a bike in Tokyo, while more convenient than owning a
car, can still be a hassle. Bicycle theft and space for parking are
among the problems that plague many Tokyo cyclists. However,
your worries will pedal themselves away when you borrow a bike
instead of buying one.
Docomo Cycle, Minato City’s website for bike-sharing—also known
as “Community Cycle”—allows both Japanese citizens and foreigners
to rent bikes and ride them to other docking ports.
Katsusuke Nishikawa, Director of Traffic Affairs at Minato City
Hall, says the whole purpose of the program is to limit the number of
illegally-parked bikes, which create obstacles for both pedestrians
and vehicles.
“As a result [of the bike-sharing program], we don’t see illegallyparked bicycles in the Shinagawa area—just a few,” says Nishikawa.
Bicycle-sharing is not a new concept; it has been applied in other
countries—although many cities have been less than successful in
implementing the program. Theft has often been an issue. But Nishikawa points out that this program is insured and safe from damages
and theft. “By using this GPS system, we know who’s using which bike,
in which area.”
In addition to Shinagawa, Minato City has also set up biking ports
in Shinbashi and Roppongi as part of a trial period. It’s limited now,
but Nishikawa says he has big plans for bicycle sharing, including
spreading the program to neighboring wards.
Presently, bikes cannot be ridden outside of Minato. But if the program spreads to other locations, riders would be able to wheel to farther
places.
Ultimately, Nishikawa hopes that the program spreads to other
parts of the metropolis before the 2020 Olympics to provide transportation for onlookers who want to experience the Games in different
parts of the city.
To use the bikes, riders must register for a membership online.
Bikes can then be rented with a passcode or a FeliCa card. Membership costs ¥1,000 per month, while the one-ride membership costs
¥100 per 30 minutes. There are no age requirements, as long as riders
are at least 143 centimeters tall.
Docomo Cycle. http://docomo-cycle.jp
FRIDAY
JULY 31
7PM-11PM
インターナショナルパーティー ･ 入場無料
¥500フード＆ドリンクメニュー有り
FREE ENTRY
¥500 FOOD & DRINKS
Come join us for a midsummer night’s dumpling at Kakekomi Gyoza in
Shinjuku! Mingle with the Metropolis team and readers while enjoying
delicious, freshly-made gyoza. Wash it down with a cold beer or
nihonshu. Food and drinks are just ¥500 and entry is free!
Kakekomi Gyoza
1-12-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku.
Tel: 03-6233-7099 - http://kakekomi-gyoza.com
MORE INFO»
http://meturl.com/jul15
17
fashion fix
BY SAMUEL THOMAS, FASHION EDITOR
Drawing from
Tokyo Fashion
F
or those abroad with dreams of making it big in Japan, it’s gratifying to
find someone who actually has—and
by working their way up. Especially
in fashion, it’s more often the case that
an already-established designer breaks
into the Japanese market from afar, rather
than from within. But times are changing,
and more students are flocking to study
in Tokyo, aiming to become successful in
the city. However, these pathways into the
Japanese fashion scene are a recent development, with even the most prestigious
fashion education institutions only opening their doors to non-native Japanese
speakers in the last couple of years.
Hailing from Oklahoma, artist and designer Brandon Reierson is a grassroots
trailblazer for those wanting to work their
way into Tokyo’s fashion scene. Having
done his time as an English teacher while
working on his brand, and now with stock-
18
Photo by Samuel Thomas
What inspires your artwork?
Childhood nostalgia-meets-underground
Japanese street fashion culture! I love seeing
fashion that is used as a way of personal selfexpression. In particular, I am inspired by the way
kids in Tokyo mix and match what they’re into
at the moment with their own personal styles.
Whether that is layering of ideas, plays on color
and texture, or old grody vintage mixed with the
avant-garde, it is incongruous, but it tells a very
personal story. This kind of fashion really speaks
to me and my work is reflective of this very personal obsession people have with fashion.
I apply the same personal approach to my
art, and my illustrations have an undeniably
nostalgic early ’90s element from my childhood
bleeding right through them, combined with
what I find inspirational from the current street
scene. Some people have described them as
Nickelodeon's Rugrats-meets-the backstreets
of Harajuku!
ists in Osaka and Tokyo—as well as a space
in Parco Part 1 Shibuya and Parco Fukuoka
running until July 9—his story is proof that
the dream can be a reality.
The inspirational rise is at odds with his
shockingly comical aesthetic: half American ’90s nostalgia, half Ura-Harajuku,
aggressively busu-kawaii, his work is designed to have you stopping in your tracks,
and Tokyo seems to be taking notice. An
illustrator by trade, Brandon could often
be found sketching on the streets of Harajuku, which have inspired his creation of
original fashion subjects. Now he’s made
his illustrated clothes a reality under his
brand Lactose Intoler-Art, a name derived
from his own allergy to dairy that features
heavily in his own daily life in Japan.
Metropolis caught up with the young
designer to hear more about his stance
on Tokyo fashion culture, and how he went
from admiring it, to making it.
How did you make the jump from drawing
street style to making it?
I’ve always been an artist, and have always
been doodling things, whether it was Koopa Kids
from Super Mario Bros. at the age of four, or the
exotic chickens I raised in Oklahoma during my
awkward pre-teen years … Yes, it has always
been there.
As for actually making street fashion, just
like everything else I ever collected or obsessed
over, I started out genuinely interested in it to
the point where it just started oozing out
through the work I created. I think as I grew
older, my art became a bit more reflective and
expressive of my past, and after living in Tokyo
for a while, a lot of the drawings I started to
make were what I had wished I was actually
seeing on the streets, but perhaps wasn’t there.
From there, it was natural to take my drawings of
fashion I wished I was seeing, to actually making
it for myself. It all comes full circle when I see
FASHION CALENDAR
CHECK METROPOLISJAPAN.COM FOR THE LATEST FASHION CALENDAR.
How did you manage to start getting stocked
in Japan?
Before living in Japan, I had visited Tokyo several
times and connected with a lot of small shop
owners as a customer. I would always come back
and buy new things, even vintage that I could
find for three dollars in a thrift store back home,
because I was so fascinated with the way that
the same piece of clothing was reinterpreted in
a new way here in Tokyo. Naturally, over time,
I got to know some of these people a bit more
personally, and I asked the owner of my favorite
store if he’d be willing to stock my work years
later—and he did! That was one of the most
exciting days of my dairy-free life!
What advice do you have for people abroad
wanting to become a designer in Tokyo?
I would say know what you love, and know what
you’re passionate about. Be fancy-free in that
sense, but you also have to be realistic, patient,
and hardworking.
I think a lot of people that follow Japanese
fashion outside Japan have this idea that it’s a
free-reigning wonderland of Lolita fashion and
Photos and drawings courtesy of Lactose Intoler-Art
someone on the street wearing my work and
they inspire me to get back to drawing.
I would hope that this kind of working transparency translates to the people that follow my
work now. I think one important thing I want to
express through Lactose Intoler-Art is the idea
of mixing and matching things from different
sources that all resonate personally. So I am
thrilled when people find a piece that means
something to them. Whether it’s just a nostalgia trip or something they want to wear that
represents their take on fashion now, they get
something out of my work, but they bring a bit
of themselves to it too.
delicious crêpes, where it’s totally acceptable to
wear whatever you like, whenever you like. That
may be true if you are just visiting as a tourist,
but overall, when you live here you have to learn
what is appropriate and when!
And I definitely think getting as much Japanese down as you can before you come to Japan
is also super helpful. Really though, if you have
a vision and truly go for it, anything is possible!
What is next for Lactose Intoler-Art?
I'm really hoping to continue my work here in
Tokyo, and hopefully do some exhibitions
abroad this year as well. Other than a new collection, I’m hoping to work on a collaboration
with a Japanese vintage shop here soon, as
well as a book project; but I've got to keep that
under wraps for now!
I’d also just like to say thanks to all who have
been so kind to follow for so long, and a big
yoroshiku to anyone new! In the end, fashion
is all about you. Have fun with it, and make it
your own!
www.lactoseintolerart.com
19
movies
BY DON MORTON
featured movie
LOCKE
One could be forgiven, after The Dark Knight Rises and Mad Max,
for forgetting that Tom Hardy is in fact a superlative actor. And
this mesmerizing, one-man existential tour de force is his best
work yet. In the opening scene, Ivan Locke gets into a BMW at a
major construction site. He has a home, a wife and family, a good
job, and money in the bank. When he arrives at his destination an
hour and a half later, he has methodically unraveled his entire life,
and he has none of these. The entire “man-in-a-can” movie takes
place in the car, the camera in medium close-up on his face as he
calmly entreats, cajoles, and explains in a hushed Welsh accent
on a hands-free phone why he is morally bound to do what he is
doing. Sounds like a gimmick—yet it’s anything but. In a powerful,
internalized portrayal, Hardy makes us identify with Locke, and
makes the movie work—brilliantly. Writer and director Steven
Knight clearly believes that less is more, but the storytelling here
is as tight as it gets and the tension palpable. Interestingly, it ends
on a strange note of freedom. Japanese title: On the Highway:
Sono Yoru, Hachijū Roppun. (86 min)
NEW
LEFT BEHIND
Nic, Nic, Nic. Didn’t they
tell you that after you get
an Oscar, you don’t have
to do this kind of crap
anymore? Okay, you have
bills to pay, but a faith-based action movie? About
the friggin’ rapture? Jeez Louise. Cage hits a new
low as an airline pilot whose second-seater suddenly
blips out of existence, along with all the world’s
pure-at-heart. Ham-fisted direction by a stunt man.
’90s screensaver SFX. The real sin of this plodding,
profoundly moronic missing-persons whodunnit is its
sheer amateurishness. But all this eschatology may
have worked; I found myself praying for the unholy
mess to end. (110 min)
NEW
STILL ALICE
This quietly heartbreaking
f ilm on the subject of
d e m e n t ia s t an d s ou t
from many others for
t wo reasons: I t s tar s
Julianne Moore in a career-best (and that’s saying
something), and it’s told from the sufferer’s rather than
the caregiver’s point of view. It’s about a person, not
an illness. Moore deftly underplays a brilliant academic
who falls victim to early-onset Alzheimer’s. She takes
us into her mind and shares her frustration and despair
with each new indication of her eroding intelligence and
identity. You should see this movie. You may not know
anyone suffering from dementia—but you will. Japanese
title: Arisu no mamade. (101 min)
THE SALVATION
Danish director Kristian
Levring dust s of f the
Spaghetti Western with
this briskly-paced tale of
a Danish homesteader
(played by Mads Mikkelsen, a scary Dane) who avenges
the murders of his wife and son by swiftly dispatching
the despicable killers. But wouldn’t you know it, one
of them was the brother of the mandatory vicious
warlord (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), and let the violence
and vengeance begin. Nothing too deep or original,
but it looks great and held my attention. If all this is not
your cup of sarsaparilla, see it for Eva Green’s terrific,
borderline-camp portrayal of a mute, kept woman.
Japanese title: Akutō ni Shukusei wo. (92 min)
STUCK IN LOVE
A noted but currently
blocked novelist (Greg
Kinnear) illogically waits
fo r t he retur n of hi s
now-remarried ex-wife
(Jennifer Connelly) while encouraging his two teenage
kids (Lily Collins & Nat Wolff ) to become writers. I’m
not sure what this fairly formulaic film is about, save
for everyone learning facile lessons about life and
love, etc. Nothing here remotely reflects reality, but
it’s inoffensive and an amiable if rather pointless date
movie. I suspect that this 2012 debut effort by Josh
Boone is being imported now because of the deserved
success of his more recent The Fault in Our Stars.
Japanese title: Happy End ga Kakeru Made. (96 min)
KURT COBAIN:
MONTAGE OF HECK
Tr u t h i n p e r s p e c t i ve
dept.: everything I know
about Nirvana I learned
from Weird Al Yankovic.
And I was well past the disaffected-youth stage when
the band got big. So, not a fan, and I didn’t much enjoy
this epic-length biopic, especially the second half,
dominated by Courtney friggin’ Love. But that’s just
me. Cinematically speaking, however, few rock docs
come close to the artistry displayed here. Given access
to Cobain’s vast store of home movies, notes, art,
animations, and music, director Brett Morgen (“curator”
is a better word) has pulled off an unprecedented filmediting tour de force. Brilliant. (145 min)
SELMA
Director Ava DuVernay
offers this biographical
fragment instead of a
full-fledged hagiography
on Dr. Martin Luther King
(Britain’s outstanding David Oyelowo). She focuses on
three months in 1965 when black protest marchers in
Selma, Alabama, were brutally beaten back by white
lawmen. More strategist than saint, King chose Selma
precisely because the town’s cracker sheriff was
likely to bust some heads, and he craftily used the TV
images of this to coerce a reluctant President Johnson
into introducing the Voting Rights Act. Complex yet
coherent, urgent and suspenseful. And it couldn’t be
timelier. Japanese title: Glory: Asu e no Kōshin. (128 min)
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
Locke: © 2013 LOCKE DISTRIBUTIONS, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; Left Behind: © 2014 LEFT BEHIND INVESTMENTS, LLC.; Still Alice: © 2014 BSM Studio. All Rights Reserved.; The Salvation: © 2014 Zentropa Entertainments33 ApS,
Denmark, Black Creek Films Limited, United Kingdom & Spier Productions (PTY), Limited, South Africa; Stuck in Love: © 2012 Writers the Movie,LLC; Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck: © 2015 End of Movie, LLC All Rights Reserved.; Selma:
© 2014 Pathe Productions Limited. All rights reserved.; The Congress: © 2013 Bridgit Folman Film Gang, Pandora Film, Entre Chien et Loup, Paul Thiltges Distributions, Opus Film, ARP; Mr. Turner: © Channel Four Television Corporation,
The British Film Institute, Diaphana, France3 Cinéma, Untitled 13 Commissioning Ltd 2014.; Mad Max: Fury Road: © 2015 VILLAGE ROADSHOW FILMS (BVI) LIMITED; Hector and the Search for Happiness: © 2014 Egoli Tossell Film/
Co-Produktionsgesellschaft "Hector 1" GmbH & Co. KG/Happiness Productions Inc./ Wild Bunch Germany/ Construction Film. 2014 All Rights Reserved.; The Cobbler: © 2014 COBBLER NEVADA, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; The Hunger
Games: Mockingjay - Part 1: TM & © 2015 LIONS GATE FILMS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
20
More reviews: metropolisjapan.com/movies
NEW
THE CONGRESS
The digitized dehumanization of the movie biz
is one of the existential
themes broached in this
li ve ac t ion /animat ion
hybrid from Ari Folman (Waltz with Bashir). A brave Robin
Wright (perfect) plays a fictitious version of herself, a
temperamental, bridge-burning actress whose only
option is to sell the rights to a digitized form of her person
and never act again. Decades later (45 minutes in), she
visits a trippy “restricted animation zone” populated only
by fellow celebrity avatars. This admittedly ambitious,
narratively murky, and largely humorless experiment will
dazzle some and baffle others. Japanese title: Congress
Miraigakukaigi. (122 min)
NEW
MR. TURNER
J.M.W. Turner was an
1 8 t h - ce n t u r y E n g l i s h
proto-Impressionist noted
for his uncanny ability to
“paint light.” Dick Pope
is director Mike Leigh’s go-to cinematographer, and it’s
a fortunate thing for art lovers and moviegoers alike
that he was the one to shoot this visually astounding,
unconventional biopic. Character actor Timothy Spall,
also a frequent Leigh collaborator, has the lead role
of a lifetime as the unpleasant, curmudgeonly, and
inconsiderate visionary oddball. Those on the right
wavelength will be enthralled. Those unfortunates that
are not may compare it to, uhm, watching paint dry.
Japanese title: Turner, Hikari ni Ai wo Motomete. (150 min)
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD
Let’s cut, appropriately,
to the chase: Best .
Action. Movie. Ever. After
30 years, George Miller
finally comes back to his
Mad Max saga with this ballsy barn-burner. There’s a
lot going on here, but it all makes sense. Tom Hardy
is Max. And Charlize Theron can take her place in the
pantheon of great action heroines. Character definition
is efficient and effective. We care. The stunts, which are
many and continuous, are old-school and real-physicalworld. CGI is used only sparingly. There’s even humor.
You find yourself laughing spontaneously at the sheer
audaciousness and showmanship. What a movie!
Japanese title: Mad Max: Ikari no Death Road. (120 min)
HECTOR AND
THE SEARCH FOR
HAPPINESS
I’m not sure what Simon
Pegg is trying here. A
regimented, middle-aged
psychologist informs his loving girlfriend (Rosamund
Pike) that he needs to go traveling to understand the title
emotion. He visits China, Africa, and L.A., all the while
making vapid, pseudo-meaningful notes and doodles that
appear on the screen. It’s cute. Shaun of the Dead and Hot
Fuzz notwithstanding, don’t be expecting another punchy
comedy, or much more than a wan character piece. It’s not
quite a male version of Eat, Pray, Love, but at times this
blandly earnest, feel-good fluff comes perilously close.
Japanese title: Shiawase wa Doko ni Aru. (114 min)
THE COBBLER
Walk a mile in someone
else’s shoes, goes the
old adage. Adam Sandler
is a lowly cobbler who
discovers a magic leatherstitching machine—one that allows him to transform into
the spitting images of the owners of shoes mended by the
device. Funny, no? No. His experiments with this magic get
progressively more maudlin, insulting, and creepy, as this
ghastly movie callously caricatures every racial and ethnic
stereotype possible. Cringe-inducing twist ending. The Big
Mystery is why respected director Thomas McCarthy, who
has given us The Station Agent, The Visitor, and Win Win,
would sink to this level. Why, Tom? Japanese title: Kutsu
Shokunin to Mahō no Mishin. (99 min)
THE HUNGER GAMES:
MOCKINGJAY—PART 1
I found the first film (2012)
to be well made and
acted, and fairly diverting
for someone who hadn’t
read the books. Ditto the second (2013), which actually
made me look forward to the third. But while this one is
darker and deeper (and more political) than what’s gone
before, the cash-grab decision to present the book in
two movies obliterates any momentum it may have had.
It’s still solid, even if unsatisfying entertainment, but
mostly a set-up. So here’s what you do: skip this one for
now and rent the DVD just before you see Part 2 when
it’s released next year. And it better be good. Japanese
title: Hunger Game Final: Resistance. (123 min)
© ２０１４「虎影」製作委員会
© IMAGE.NET
© Les Films du Carrosse
eiga
This comedy-ac tion-farce
received its world premiere at
the Okinawa International Movie
By Rob Schwartz
Festival in March and represents
a new type of chambara (samurai sword action) film. The
action is plentiful but tongue is planted firmly in cheek for
the story and characters. Torakage (Takumi Saitō) was a
legendary samurai able to defeat all others, but he’s retired
to an idyllic, simple farm life with his wife Tsukikage (Yuria
Haga) and five-year-old son Kogetsu. He’s ambushed
by his former leader, an evil princess, and forced into
a dangerous mission to get the “silver scroll” from a
neighboring castle to go along with the “golden scroll”
she already possesses. Filmmaker Yoshihiro Nishimura is
well known for his Ed Wood-type B-movies like Tokyo Gore
Police and Helldriver. He often acts as both director and
makeup artist, specializing in arresting and super-cheesy
effects. This is all in evidence here, including creatures
with eyes all over their heads and various demons. Though
the action sequences are generally second-rate, there are
some funny and clever bits, like when Torakage is trying
to climb the walls of the enemy fortress and they drop
boulders on him, a human mock-up of a pachinko machine.
Good for a laugh if you like over-the-top “extreme” cinema.
English title: The Ninja War of Torakage. (94 min)
TORAKAGE
movie news
In the upcoming Sony Pictures film Pixels, aliens find a
time capsule sent from Earth in the early ’80s, but take
classic video games to be a declaration of war and launch
a counter attack. A squad of gaming geeks, led by Adam
Sandler and Peter Dinklage, have to use their skills at
the joystick to save the world from being eaten by PacMan. The timing of the film is apt, as the pop culture
icon is turning 35 this year. The occasion was marked
by 351 fans donning yellow outfits and standing at the
base of Tokyo Tower, winning a Guinness World Record
for “largest human image of Pac-Man” and proving
Guinness has a category for just about everything. “It’s
overwhelming,” said game designer Toru Iwatani, who
joined the Japanese voice cast at the event. “It’s a beautiful
Pac-Man.” Iwatani was in his early 20s when he sketched
a pizza with a slice missing on graph paper to create the
character. When the arcade game was released in Japan
on May 22, 1980, expectations were low that it could take
on Space Invaders, which was popular enough to cause
a shortage of ¥100 coins. It soon became a phenomenon
at home and in the U.S., where 7 billion quarters were
dropped into the machines in the first two years. Iwatani
receives proper credit for his creation in the film, in which
he is played by Canadian actor Denis Akiyama. Pixels
opens in Japan September 19. Kevin Mcgue
cinematic underground
Bunkamura’s Le Cinema (2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuyaku; www.bunkamura.co.jp) will pay tribute to one of
the most acclaimed eras of cinema with the special
program Lovers of the French New Wave, running
July 4-31. The 21 films in the lineup will all be shown in
35mm, and include Francois Truffaut’s Love on the Run
(1979; pictured) about a man’s struggles with his wife’s
infidelity, Godard’s Masculin Féminin (1966) and Louis
Malle’s Zazie in the Metro (1960), in which a young girl
causes havoc in the streets of Paris after running away
from her transvestite uncle. All titles in French with
Japanese subtitles … The Oscar-nominated Swedish
film Force Majeure (aka Turist) finally gets a Japan
release on July 4 at Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho
(2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku; www.ht-cinema.com).
The film raises questions of masculinity and patriarchal
duty as it follows a Swedish family visiting the French
Alps when an avalanche hits … Turkish director Nuri
Bilge Ceylan, who won the Grand Prix at Cannes in
2011, returns with his follow up, Winter Sleep. It tells
the story of a failed actor running a small hotel near
the World Heritage site of the homes carved into rock
cliffs at Cappadocia. On from June 27 at Shinjuku
Musashinokan (3-27-10 Shinjuku; http://shinjuku.
musashino-k.jp). KM
21
arts&culture
a sometimes-sombre, sometimessentimental style of academic
realism that revealed her technical talent. In later years, her style
changed dramatically.
What strikes the visitor about
her work is a sense of feminine
intimacy combined with Scandinavian simplicity. Oddly enough,
there’s a strange IKEA note to
many of her paintings, with just a
hint of the morose quality we associate with Swedish filmmaker
Ingmar Bergman. This note is
sounded early in the show with a
memento mori painting of a skull,
done when she was only 15.
This note never entirely goes
away, and when we encounter
one of her most famous paintings, The Convalescent (1888), it
reverberates strongly, as we see a
sickly child tending a poor-looking
plant, and wonder which one will
survive longer. The expression in
the child’s eyes mixes dark premonitions with a still-glowing ember of hope, making it all the more
The Convalescent, 1888
poignant.
An important influence was
the American painter James Whistler. This
becomes obvious in The Seamstress (1905),
which evokes Whistler’s famous painting of
his mother. But Schjerfbeck manages to give
things a new twist. The stern-looking figure
of the seamstress, with her scissors hanging
from her waist, connected by a ribbon, and her
rocking chair counting out the hours, seems
to be a clear invocation of the ancient Greek
LIDDELL
Fates—the three goddesses who measured out
the life of each person by spinning, measuring,
and cutting a thread.
Interestingly, this was a work from almost
the exact midpoint of Schjerfbeck’s own life;
she was 43. The rest of the exhibition is dominated by a sense of decline, both in artistic
terms and physically.
Going with the spirit of the age, her painting
becomes more streamlined and flatter—rather Art Deco-ish—while her palette becomes
lighter and brighter. While still charming and
occasionally effective, many of these works
veer toward the cartoonish.
Her paintings also start to focus more on
herself, documenting the process of aging,
but also suggesting that painting is a habit of
The Seamstress, 1905
creation that the artist can only ever give up
at the grave.
paid her fees. By 17, she was already winning Until Jul 26. Tokyo University of the Arts.
prizes, while a government grant enabled her 12-8 Ueno Park, Taito-ku. Ueno.
to study in Paris. In these years, she developed http://helene-fin.exhn.jp (Japanese only)
ART
HELENE
SCHJERFBECK
BY C.B.
22
Photo credit: Ateneum Art Museum, Finnish National Gallery/ Hannu Altonen
T
here aren’t many solo shows by female
painters, especially historical shows.
Even when there is one, there’s always
a suspicion that the exhibition is being
put on—at least partly—to remedy the gender
imbalance. But you’re unlikely to be troubled
by such thoughts at Helene Schjerfbeck: Reflections, the latest show at the University Art
Museum, Tokyo, focusing on Finland’s most
famous “lady painter.”
It may have been because Scandinavian
countries have always been at the forefront of
gender equality, but the young Schjerfbeck,
born 1862, faced few obstacles in her chosen
career. While Finland was officially part of the
Russian Empire—as the Grand Duchy of Finland—it nevertheless enjoyed a high degree
of autonomy and followed its own cultural and
social norms.
From the age of 11, Schjerfbeck was enrolled
in drawing school, where a well-known artist
©2015 Disney Enterprises, Inc.
Robertson said she also
loved the notion that the film
looked to the future as a source
of hope rather than dread.
“I think, f irst and fore most, it’s a movie that is fun
to watch. People can go into
theaters and escape, and just
watch these people take on
the world and make the best
of their future at the present.
But aside from that, I learned
how to be a little more optimistic in my life—and hopeful—to not necessarily succumb to the darkness that
people say our future can be.
I am able to look at things in
a more positive way,” Robertson said.
Robertson said that didn’t
mean that making the film was
not without a few challenges.
“I think it was a little bit of
both. It was definitely a fun
movie to shoot. Ever y day
was like experiencing a new
obstacle course. That was
definitely challenging, and
there were many technical
things I had to learn in order
to get through those days.”
Still Robertson added, “It’s a very fun movie.
It’s action-packed, and it really is kind of like a
Disney ride.”
Bird said that Robertson’s Casey Newton
character evolved to be such a strong feminist—not as much by design, but by necessity—to tell the story the way he envisioned it.
“I hope people here in Japan come see the
film. I think people should come see the film
and expect the unexpected,” Bird said.
Cassidy also chimed in on the feel-good
aspects of Tomorrowland: “I am really excited.
I am glad everyone is loving it, because it is a
film that makes you feel good.”
All the positivity from the cast worked for
Clooney. “It was fun working with Brad, who I really wanted to work with, and it was fun to get to
travel around the way we got to do for the film.”
Now, if he can only doctor that Ireton photo to reflect today’s reality, the actor’s smile
would probably grow even wider!
1 TO 1: CLOONEY, CAST TALK
TOMORROWLAND’S HOPE
BY DANIEL L. SMITH, FOX EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
T
here’s something about being George
Clooney that is … well, pretty cool. The
Hollywood star came to Japan to promote
his new film Tomorrowland along with fellow cast members Britt Robertson and Raffey
Cassidy, and director Brad Bird. It
didn’t take long for him to demonstrate some of the qualities that endear him to
friends and fans alike:
an easy going manner and good-natured humor.
When Cloo ney discovered
that Fox Backstage Pass repor ter Rober ta
Ireton had a photo
from 20 years ago
of herself as a toddler posing with the
actor, he deadpanned,
“You got it with you? Let’s see
it! Let’s see the picture!”
Clooney took her mobile phone, looked at
the image, and then responded with a laugh
and huge smile, “Oh my God! What happened
to my gray hair?”
The actor, who has been known to tackle
some pretty gritty roles in such films as Syriana and The Perfect Storm, said it was a great
chance to make a movie about hope.
“It was fun to do a film about hopefulness,
which I thought was nice,” Clooney said of the sci-fi story
that casts him as Frank
Walker, a former boyg e n i u s i nve n to r.
The plot f inds
him embarking
on a dangerous journey
to find a place
that exists in
the collective
memory of protagonist Casey
Newton (Robertson) and himself.
He added, “I don’t
know that we were trying to give a message. I
think Brad might have an idea
with messages, but mostly, all we were trying
to do was to talk about the idea that the world
doesn’t have to end one way if everybody
participates.”
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.
23
agenda
WATCH LIST
hot tickets
SEP
28-30
Jake Shimabukuro
OCT 8
Ukulele virtuoso and composer known
for his fast and complex finger work.
Sep 28, 7pm. ¥6,800. Ex Theater
Roppongi. Roppongi or Nogizaka.
Sep 29, 7pm. ¥6,800. Bunkamura.
Shibuya. Sep 30, 7pm. ¥6,800.
Yokohama Kannai Hall. Kannai.
http://j.mp/shimabukuro2015
Tickets on sale Jun 27
Concerts
POPULAR
Swervedriver
English alt-rock band who emerged
with a heavier rock sound than
their shoegaze contemporaries,
and evolved to include elements of
psychedelia, classic pop, and indie
rock. Oct 8, 7:30pm. ¥6,800. duo
Music Exchange. Shibuya.
http://j.mp/swervedriver2015
Tickets on sale now
Akasaka.
Tel: 03-3584-8811.
http://j.mp/ericmartin2015
Amaranthe
Live From The Kitchen
Disco, Volume 14
The monthly showcase of
live international indie music
kicks off its second year with
Orangey, The Lower Lips,
Roswell Kids, Aurora, and
Oyajis. Jun 28, 6:30pm. Free
(guests are asked to order one
item from the menu). Papera.
Shinjuku Gyoenmae. Tel:
03-3350-0208. http://j.mp/
kitchendiscovol14
2 Cellos
Croatian cello duo who plays
mainly instrumental covers
of well-known pop and rock
songs, and have performed
internationally. Jun 30, 7pm.
Kanagawa Arts Theater.
Motomachi-chukagai. Jul 2,
7pm. Suntory Hall. TameikeSanno. Jul 3, 7pm; Jul 5, 5pm.
Bunkamura Orchard Hall.
Shibuya. All performances
¥7,000-8,000.
http://j.mp/2cellos2015
Swedish-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 Taylor
American 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: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/jttaylor2015
Pablo Cruise
Pop/rock band formed in 1973
currently composed of David
Jenkins, Cory Lerios, Steve
Price, and Larry Antonino.
Jul 31, 7 & 9:30pm; Aug 1-2,
5 & 8pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando.Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
pablocruise2015
Machine Head
The Used
American metal band that’s 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
American post-hardcore band
whose musical style has been
labeled as post-hardcore,
alternative rock, hard rock,
and heavy metal. Aug 3, 7pm.
¥6,500. Liquidroom. Ebisu.
Tel: 03-5464-0800. http://j.mp/
used2015
Tyondai Braxton
American composer and
performer’s show for his latest
album, HIVE1. Jul 2, 8pm.
¥5,400 + 1d (adv). Liquidroom.
Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800.
www.tyondaibraxton.com
Tony Visconti and Woody
Woodmansey
Visconti 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
Zapp
American funk band who is
particularly influential in the
electro subgenre of funk.
Aug 13, 7pm. ¥8,000-10,000.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
zapp2015
Funk and disco unit by neo-soul
artist Mayer Hawthorne and
hip-hop producer Jake One.
Aug 17, 8pm. ¥10,000-12,000.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
tuxedo2015
Anathema
British rock band whose
mastery of melancholy, melody,
and spine-tingling atmosphere
has set them proudly apart from
their peers. Aug 31-Sep 1, 7pm.
¥6,500-7,500. Liquidroom.
Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800.
http://j.mp/anathema2015
Eric Martin
American rock singer and
musician who earned his most
prominent success as the
frontman for Mr. Big. Jul 14,
7pm. ¥7,500. Akasaka Blitz.
24
American musician, known as the
guitarist and keyboardist for The
Strokes. Oct 21, 7:30pm. ¥6,500.
duo Music Exchange. Shibuya.
Oct 22, 7:30pm. ¥6,500. Astro Hall.
Meiji-Jingumae.
http://j.mp/hammondjr2015
Tickets on sale Jun 27
bands Something Corporate
and Jack’s Mannequin.
Sep 1, 7pm. ¥6,800. Club
Quattro. Shibuya. Tel:
03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/
mcmahon2015
Maroon 5
Adam Levine-fronted
hit-making band bring their
catchy, soulful pop hooks
and Jagger-like moves to
Tokyo. Sep 2, 7pm. ¥12,50025,000. Yokohama Arena.
Shin-Yokohama. Tel:
045-474-4000. http://j.mp/
maroon52015
JAZZ/WORLD
Tye Tribbett
American gospel music singer
and founder of the Grammynominated gospel group Tye
Tribbett and G.A. Jun 26, 7
& 9:30pm. ¥7,800-9,800.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133.
http://j.mp/tribbett2015
Pérez Prado Orchestra
Originally directed by Pérez
Prado, the “King of Mambo,”
the orchestra is now directed
by his son, Pérez Prado, Jr.
Jun 27, 1:30pm. ¥6,0006,800. Shibuya Public Hall.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-34633022.
www.shibuko.com/english
Andrew McMahon in the
Wilderness
Singer-songwriter who was
the vocalist, pianist, and
primary songwriter for the
NOV
9
Def Leppard
English rock band formed as part
of the New Wave of British Heavy
Metal, and is one of the world’s
best-selling music artists. Nov 9, 7pm.
¥12,000-13,000. Nippon Budokan.
Kudanshita. http://leppard2015
Tickets on sale now
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
Average White Band
Scottish funk and R&B band
best known for their millionselling instrumental track
“Pick Up the Pieces.” Jul
10, 7 & 9:30pm; Jul 11, 5
& 8pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
avgwhiteband2015
Jul 12, 5 & 8pm; Jul 13, 6:30
& 9pm. ¥8,500-10,500.
Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel:
03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/
whitebandcotton2015
Def Tech with Jawaiian All
Stars
Japanese pop band Def Tech’s
10th Anniversary Celebration,
with songs from their new
album Howzit!? released on
June 3. Jul 15, 7 & 9:30pm.
¥8,500-12,280. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando.
Tel: 03-5485-0088.
http://j.mp/deftech2015
Kalapana
Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio
Trio led by Dr. Smith, who has
been an authentic master and
guru of the Hammond B-3
organ for over five decades,
and is often hailed as the most
creative jazz organist by a
slew of music publications. Jul
1-3, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue
Note Tokyo. Omotesando.
Tel: 03-5485-0088.
http://j.mp/lonniesmith2015
Tuxedo
Linder Brothers
Fusion 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
OCT
21-22
Albert Hammond Jr.
Lou Donaldson Quartet
Led 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
Sara Gazarek and Josh
Nelson Duo
Vocalist Gazarek’s top-flight
interpretations of the vast and
varied American songbook
are buoyed by the sensitivity
of pianist Nelson’s supple
command. Jul 4-5, 5 & 8pm;
Jul 7-8, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥6,5008,500. Cotton Club. Tokyo.
Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.
mp/gazareknelson2015
Hawaiian group performing
pop and soft rock music
best known for their songs
“Naturally” and “The Hurt.” Jul
17, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥6,900-8,900.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
kalapana2015
O Sole Mio
Take a musical trip to Naples,
Italy, with performances by the
Orchestra Italiana Napoletana.
Jul 20, 12:30 & 4pm. ¥6,500.
Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall.
Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel:
03-5353-9999. http://j.mp/
osolemio2015
for free
JUL
13
Nōryō no Yube (Floating
Lantern Festival)
Some 700 lanterns will sway in
the moat of the Imperial Palace
against a backdrop of the forest and
Kitanomaru Park. Jul 13, 6:45pm.
Free. Chidorigafuchi Moat Greenery
Path. Ichigaya or Iidabashi.
http://j.mp/noryonoyube
23-24, 7 & 9:30pm; Jul 25-26,
5 & 8pm. ¥9,000. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
tynerlovano2015
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
jamesbrownband2015
Maceo Parker
American session drummer
considered to be an influential
and innovative exponent of
funk, known for his precise
musical time keeping and
his signature use of triplets
against a half-time backbeat
known as the “Purdie Shuffle.”
Aug 23, 4:30 & 7:30pm.
¥6,800-8,800. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/purdie2015
American funk and soul jazz
saxophonist best known for
his work with James Brown
in the 1960s. Jul 26, 4:30 &
7:30pm; Jul 27, 7 & 9:30pm.
¥7,400-9,400. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/parker2015
Legends of Blues
A tribute to Howlin’ Wolf
featuring Henry Gray and
Eddie Shaw. Jul 28, 7 &
9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
legendsofblues2015
American singer, songwriter,
and multi-instrumentalist best
known for his 1978 hit single
“What You Won’t Do for Love.”
Jul 21-23, 6:30 & 9:30pm.
¥10,000-12,000. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/caldwell2015
McCoy Tyner and Joe
Lovano
Enjoy jazz pianist Tyner’s
collaboration with post-bop
jazz saxophonist Lovano,
both of whom are Grammy
Award-winning musicians. Jul
Jesse Van Ruller Trio
Trio led by Dutch jazz guitarist
Ruller. Aug 24-25, 6:30 & 9pm.
¥6,800-9,000. Cotton Club.
Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555.
http://j.mp/rullertrio2015
David T. Walker
American guitarist known
for his distinct and beautiful
signature sound/touch which
is often compared to a harp,
birds, or water. Aug 2, 4:30 &
7:30pm; Aug 3, 7 & 9:30pm.
¥6,800-8,800. Billboard Live.
Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/twalker2015
Joyce Moreno
Brazilian singer/songwriter
as well as an accomplished
guitarist and arranger
who has recorded over 20
solo albums. Aug 3-4, 7 &
9:30pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
joycemoreno2015
Seamus Blake’s
“Superconductor”
Canadian tenor saxophonist
whose music is known for
its sophistication, bold
improvisations, and “sheer
swagger.” Aug 3-5, 6:30
& 9pm. ¥7,000-9,000.
Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel:
03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/
seamusblake2015
The Three Degrees
Bobby Caldwell
Bernard Purdie and
Friends
American soul girl group
known for their hit tune
“When Will I See You Again.”
Aug 7, 7 & 9:30pm; Aug 8,
6 & 9pm. ¥7,500-9,500.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
threedegrees2015
The Original James Brown
Band
The band that performed with
James Brown for 15 years
before his death in 2006,
featuring RJ, Martha High,
and Danny Ray. Aug 18, 7 &
9:30pm. ¥10,000-12,000.
Tower of Power
American R&B-based band
best known for their funky
soul sound highlighted by
a powerful horn section
and precisely syncopated
bass-guitar lines. Aug 24-27, 7
& 9:30pm. ¥10,800. Blue Note
Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:
03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/
towerofpower2015
Shakatak
English jazz-funk band known
for their hits “Night Birds”
and “Down on the Street.”
Aug 27-28, 7 & 9:30pm; Aug
29, 6 & 9pm. ¥6,500-8,500.
Billboard Live. Roppongi.
Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/
shakatak2015
Blue Mountain Boys
Classic country and bluegrass.
Every third Sat, 6:30 & 7:30pm.
Free. Cafe Sepia. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-3406-1300.
www.nagaremono.com/sepia
CLASSICAL
Dan Tepfer
French-American jazz pianist
and composer known for
his 2011 album Goldberg
Variations/Variations, which
pairs his performance of
Bach’s work with improvised
variations of his own. Jun 27,
7pm. ¥3,000. Sumida Triphony
Hall. Kinshicho.
Tel: 03-5608-5404.
www.triphony.com
Ensemble de Cuivres de
Belgique
Consisting of 13 talented
musicians including four
trumpets and trombones, two
horns, one bass tuba, and two
percussions; all members come
from great Belgian orchestras
and have graduated from
the most important Belgian
conservatories. Jun 28, 7pm.
¥2,500-4,500. Tokyo Bunka
Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-38282111. www.t-bunka.jp/en
Lars Vogt
One of the leading pianists
of his generation who first
came to public attention when
he won the second prize at
the 1990 Leeds International
Piano Competition. Jun 29,
7pm. ¥4,500-7,000. Kioi Hall.
Yotsuya. Tel: 03-5276-4500.
www.kioi-hall.or.jp
Antti Siirala
Finnish pianist who is
the First Prize winner of
three international piano
competitions, including the
prestigious Leeds International
Piano Competition. Jun 30,
7pm. ¥5,500. Hamarikyu
Asahi Hall. Tsukiji Shijo. Tel:
03-5541-8710. http://j.mp/
siirala2015
Sergei Nakariakov
Russian virtuoso trumpeter
whose repertoire includes
the entire range of original
literature for the trumpet, and
who has also single-handedly
brought the flügelhorn to
prominence on the concert
platform. Jul 3, 7pm. ¥4,5005,500. Sumida Triphony Hall.
Kinshicho.
Tel: 03-5608-5404.
http://j.mp/nakariakov2015
Berlin Philharmonic
Orchestra
Performances of Debussy’s
“3 Chansons de Charles
d'Orleans (arr. for Trombone
Quartet),” Weill’s “Kleine
Dreigroschenmusik,” and
more. Jul 4, 7pm. ¥5,0007,000. Suntory Hall.
Roppongi-itchome. Tel:
0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/
berlinphil2015
Dresden Philharmonic
Orchestra
Conducted by Michael
Sanderling with
performances of
Beethoven’s Overture,
Fidelio, Piano Concerto
No.5 in E-flat major, op.73
“Emperor,” and more. Jul
6, 7pm. ¥10,000-14,000.
Suntory Hall. Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017.
http://j.mp/dresdenphil2015
Russian National
Orchestra
Conducted by Mikhail Pletnev
with performances of music
by Glinka, Tchaikovsky, and
Rachmaninoff. Jul 7, 7pm.
¥12,000-15,000. Bunkyo
Civic Hall. Korakuen.
Tel: 03-5803-1100.
http://bunkyocivichall.jp
Dezső Ránki
Hungarian pianist who
has played with the Berlin
Philharmonic Orchestra,
London Philharmonic
Orchestra, and others, and
was twice awarded the
Kossuth Prize, which is the
highest cultural award in
Hungary. Jul 8, 3pm. ¥3,000.
Hakuju Hall. Yoyogi
Hachiman. Tel: 03-54788867. www.hakujuhall.jp/
english
State Symphony Capella
of Russia
Conducted 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
Bebop Bernstein
The NHK Symphony Orchestra
presents an evening of
“symphonic jazz,” a term
used to describe the mixing
of classical and jazz music.
Pieces include Bernstein’s
“Prelude, Fugue, and Riffs,”
Duke Ellington’s “The
Harlem Suite,” and more.
Jul 10, 6:30pm. ¥4,5005,500. Tokyo Metropolitan
Theatre. Ikebukuro. Tel:
03-5391-2111. http://j.mp/
bebopbernstein2015
Tokyo Philharmonic
Orchestra
Conducted by Tadaaki
Otaka with performances
of Mozart’s “Die
Entführung aus dem Serail”
Overture, Concerto for
Two Pianos and Orchestra,
and more. Jul 12, 3pm.
¥7,000-10,000. Bunkamura .
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9111.
www.tpo.or.jp/en
w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54582551. www.clubasia.co.jp
Lounge Neo
Bon Voyage. Hip-hop:
DJs Celory, Sakurai, etc.
From 11pm. ¥3,000 w/1d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551.
loungeneo.iflyer.jp
Womb
EDM Music Festival. House,
EDM: DJs Daishi Dance, 80kidz,
etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039.
www.womb.co.jp
Daikanyama Unit
Ubik ft Mirko Loko (Cadenza).
DJs Mirko Loko, Masda, and
SO. From 11:30pm. ¥2,500
(adv)/¥3,000 (w/flyer,
before 12am)/¥3,500 (door).
Daikanyama. Tel: 03-54598630. www.unit-tokyo.com
SATURDAY 27
The New Matrix Bar
Ensemble Wien-Berlin &
New Japan Philharmonic
Performances of Mozart’s
“Bassoon Concerto,”
“Oboe Concerto,” and more
performed by the wind quintet
Ensemble Wien-Berlin and New
Japan Philharmonic. Jul 13,
7pm. ¥5,000-9,000. Sumida
Triphony Hall. Kinshicho. Tel:
03-5608-5404. http://j.mp/
ensemblewienberlin2015
Saturday Night Fever. Hip-hop,
R&B, reggae: DJ Ykk and
more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after
10pm). Roppongi. www.
matrixbar.jp
Air
Cats. House: DJs Fred P,
Kawasaki, etc. From 10pm.
¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5784-3384. www.
air-tokyo.com
Andrea Rost
Sound Museum Vision
Hungarian lyric soprano will
perform pieces from Mozart’s
The Marriage of Figaro,
Donizetti’s Don Pasquale, and
more. Jul 18, 7pm. ¥2,0008,000. Yokohama Minato
Mirai Hall. Minatomirai. Tel:
045-682-2020. http://j.mp/
rost2015
Seeds. House, techno: DJs Nick
Curly, Sodeyama, etc. From
10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5728-2824. www.visiontokyo.com
T2
Clubbing
Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs
Shu, Vivid, etc. From 10pm.
(m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
FRIDAY 26
Ageha
Microcosmos
Good Old. House: DJs
Chikada, Mitsuki, etc. From
12am. ¥2,000. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5784-5496. www.
microcosmos-tokyo.com
The New Matrix Bar
Matrix 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
Air
His Majesty Andre & Elisa
Bee. Electro, electro house:
DJs His Majesty Andre, Elisa
Bee, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,000.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384.
www.air-tokyo.com
Sound Museum Vision
Zero One Base. Bass, trap: DJs
Torro Torro, Bcm, etc. From
10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5728-2824. www.visiontokyo.com
The Room
Champ. Rare groove: DJs
Shiba, Tominaga, etc.
From 10pm. ¥2,500 w/1d.
Shibuya. www.theroom.jp
Saturdays. EDM, house: DJs
Sick Individuals, Daishi Dance,
etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500.
Shinkiba. Tel: 03-55342525. www.ageha.com
The Room
Black Edition. Cosmic
crossover: DJs Kacchi Nasty,
Sato, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,500
w/1d. Shibuya. www.
theroom.jp
Club Asia
Flash. Electro: DJs Nakata,
Nakamura, etc. From 11pm.
¥3,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5458-2551. www.clubasia.
co.jp
Lounge Neo
Kachikachi. Reggae: DJs Spicy
Chocolate, Asian Star, etc.
From 11pm. (m)¥2,000 w/1d,
(f)¥1,500 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5458-2551. loungeneo.
iflyer.jp
Signal, Largemouth, etc.
3-10pm. ¥2,500. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.
womb.co.jp
hip-hop, west side, south side,
all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From
6pm. ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm).
Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp
MONDAY 29
Air
Air
Cruz Fade. House, techno: DJs
Watanabe, Genzou, etc. From
9pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.
air-tokyo.com
T2
T2 Monday. EDM: DJs Kenta,
Tommy, etc. From 10pm.
(m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
TUESDAY 30
Ruby Room
Open Mic. From 7pm. ¥1,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-37803022 (evenings) / 070-69694816 (daytime). www.
rubyroomtokyo.com
Air
The Choice. Future ragga: DJ
Mal and more. From 10pm.
¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.
air-tokyo.com
T2
Super Tuesday. EDM: DJs
Hokuto, Tjo, etc. From 10pm.
(m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
Womb
Tuemix. EDM, Top 40: Various
DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f)
free. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54590039. www.womb.co.jp
WEDNESDAY 1
Ruby Room
Cdhp. DJs Cd Hata, Alph
Zen, etc. From 8pm. Free.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3780-3022
(evenings) / 070-69694816 (daytime). www.
rubyroomtokyo.com
T2
Shibuya Girls Party. EDM:
Various DJs. From 10pm.
(m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
Womb
Wedm. EDM: Various DJs. From
10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f) free.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039.
www.womb.co.jp
The Room
Noi. Bar style: DJs Yagisawa,
Niwa, etc. 7-11pm. Free.
Shibuya. www.theroom.jp
THURSDAY 2
A1. Electronica, techno: DJs
Gonno, So, etc. Live: Nathan
Fake. From 10pm. ¥3,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384.
www.air-tokyo.com
Sound Museum Vision
Hyper Society. House: DJs
Tanaka, Osawa, etc. From
10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d,
(f)¥3,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5728-2824. www.visiontokyo.com
Breakthrough. Hip-hop: DJs
Jin, Ladi Dadi, etc. From 10pm.
¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. www.
theroom.jp
T2
Shibuya 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
Ageha
Agepa. All mix: DJs U5, Hokuto,
etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000
w/1d, (f)free. Shinkiba. Tel:
03-5534-2525. www.ageha.
com
Womb
Sterne. Techno: DJs Technasia,
Ishino, etc. From 11pm.
¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5459-0039. www.womb.
co.jp
Dance
Les Ballets Trockadero de
Monte Carlo
Founded by a group of
ballet enthusiasts for the
purpose of presenting a
playful, entertaining view of
traditional, classical ballet in
parody form and en travesti,
the Trocks are a Company of
professional male dancers
performing the full range
of the ballet and modern
dance repertoire in faithful
renditions of the manners and
conceits of the dance styles.
Jun 27, 6pm; Jun 28, 3pm.
¥6,500-8,500. Tokyo Bunka
Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-38282111. Jul 11, 4pm. ¥6,5008,500. Bunkamura Orchard
Hall. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-3477-9111.
http://trockadero.org
Circus
Artemis. Electronic: DJs
Vincent Lemieux, Otsuki,
etc. From 11:30pm. ¥3,000.
Daikanyama. Tel: 03-54598630. www.unit-tokyo.com
The Room
Cinderella
El Amor. Techno, house: DJs
Endo, Nishikawa, etc. 7-11pm.
¥1,000. Shibuya. www.
theroom.jp
SUNDAY 28
FRIDAY 3
T2
Microcosmos
Global Allmix Party. All mix: DJs
Takashi, Rew, etc. From 10pm.
(m)¥2,500 w/2d, (f)¥1,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
John’s World. All good music:
DJ Jonny and more. From
12am. ¥1,000. Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5784-5496. www.
microcosmos-tokyo.com
A production aimed
specifically for children
performed by the National
Ballet of Japan. Jul 22-25,
11:30am & 3pm. ¥2,1603,240. New National Theatre
Tokyo. Hatsudai. Tel:
03-5352-9999. http://j.mp/
nnttcinderella2015
Womb
The New Matrix Bar
Release. Drum’n‘bass: DJs
Matrix Friday. Old-school
Womb
Daikanyama Unit
T2
Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs
Baby-T, Shu, etc. From 10pm.
(m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500
w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com
Ageha
Fête de la Musique. House,
techno: DJs Kimura, Towa
Tei, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500.
Shinkiba. Tel: 03-55342525. www.ageha.com
Club Asia
Blaqlist. Hip-hop: DJs Koco,
Kenta, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500
A jukebox 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.
Until Jul 5, various times.
¥9,000-13,000. Theatre Orb.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999.
http://j.mp/jerseyboys2015
Sister Act
West End and Broadway
musical based on the hit 1992
film comedy of the same name.
Jul 15-Aug 2, various times.
¥7,000-12,000. Theatre Orb.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999.
http://j.mp/sisteract2015
Exhibitions
ENDING SOON
JUN 27-SEP 6
11th Anniversary Party. Disco,
house: DJ Dimitri from Paris
and more. From 11pm. ¥3,500.
Daikanyama. Tel: 03-54598630. www.unit-tokyo.com
Mix Juice. House, EDM: Various
DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥1,500, (f)
free. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54590039. www.womb.co.jp
Mother. House, EDM: DJs
Alberto Ruiz, The Delta,
etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039.
www.womb.co.jp
Jersey Boys
Daikanyama Unit
Moriyama 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
Womb
Stage
The Room
T2
Hands Up. World mix: Various
DJs. From 10pm. (m)¥2,500
w/2d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d.
Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692.
www.t2-shibuya.com
by Léon Minkus. Jul 29, 7pm.
¥4,000-16,000. Tokyo Bunka
Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno.
Tel: 03-3828-2111. www.nbs.
or.jp/english
Don Quixote
Performed by The Tokyo
Ballet as part of the program
for the World Ballet Festival,
with choreography by
Vladimir Vasiliev and music
Kyosai—Master painter and
his student Josiah Conder
Kawanabe Kyosai, also known
as “the Demon Painter,”
gained popularity in the late
19th century, a period of
change in Japan. This exhibit
showcases his humorous,
unconventional art, as well as
the outstanding work of his
student, architect Josiah
Conder. English audio guide
available. Jun 27-Sep 6,
10am-6pm (until 8pm, Fri),
closed Mon. ¥500-1,500.
Mitsubishi Ichigokan
Museum. Tokyo or
Yurakucho. http://mimt.jp/
kyosai
Villains in Ukiyo-e
This exhibition explores the
various images of villains
that are depicted in ukiyo-e,
ranging from actual villains to
fictional characters in stories.
Until Jun 26, 10:30am-5:30pm,
closed Mon. ¥500-700.
Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum
of Art. Harajuku. Tel:
03-3403-0880. http://j.mp/
ukiyoevillains2015
The British Museum
Exhibition: A History of the
World in 100 Objects
This exhibition explores human
creativity covering two million
years from prehistory 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.
¥800-1,600. Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum. Ueno.
Tel: 03-3823-6921.
http://j.mp/100objects2015
Utrillo and Valadon
Showcasing 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
25
Sayoko Yamaguchi:
The Wearist, Clothed
in the Future
This 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 Others
Showcasing works by 18 artists
of the younger generation
in Asia and 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 Neuron
A 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 Exhibition
Experience 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 Spirits
Japanese Language School
By 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
Simple Forms:
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Yuka Goto: Celebration
Exhibition featuring
Tokyo-based artist and
cartoonist Goto’s new series of
three-dimensional paintings.
Jul 1-19, 1-7pm, closed
Mon & Tue. Free. Hiromart
Gallery. Edogawabashi. Tel:
03-6233-9836. http://j.mp/
gotocelebration2015
The World of Edo
Dandyism: From
Swords to Inrō
Showcasing 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 Here
Born 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)/ ¥1,0001,300 (door). Suntory Museum
of Art. Roppongi.
http://j.mp/
maestrokenzan2015
Handiwirman Saputra:
Material Matters
Showcasing works by
Indonesian artist Saputra,
who was initially known for his
installations of objects such as
thread, wire, and bits of paper
that were presented practically
just as they were. Until Jul 25,
11am-7pm, closed Sun, Mon,
& hols. Free. Tolot/heuristic
Shinonome. Shinonome.
www.heuristic.com/tolot
Helene Schjerfbeck:
Reflections
This exhibition brings together
around 130 “simple forms”
from around the world, and
across the ages found in
nature, primitive art, folk
art, and traditional cultures.
Until Jul 5, 10am-10pm (until
5pm on Tue). ¥1,500 (adv)/
¥600-1,800 (door). Mori Art
Museum. Roppongi. Tel:
03-5777-8600. http://j.mp/
simpleforms2015
Showcasing 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)/ ¥1,0001,500 (door). The University
Art Museum. Ueno.
Tel: 050-5525-2200.
http://helene-fin.exhn.jp
ONGOING
Tokyo Story 2015
Zeng Jianyong: The Lost
Land
Since 1949
images of the world’s harshest
landscapes. Jun 26-Jul 15,
10am-7pm. Free. Fujifilm
Square. Roppongi. Tel:
03-6271-3350. http://j.mp/
horizonnomachi2015
Showcasing works by Chinese
painter Jianyong which
often use motifs of children
and animals, and depict a
colorful fairytale world that
is unconventional in the
realm of traditional Chinese
ink-wash painting. Until Jul
11, 11am-7pm (until 5pm on
Sat), closed Sun, Mon, & hols.
Free. Tokyo Gallery + BTAP.
Shinbashi.
Tel: 03-3571-1808.
http://j.mp/lostland2015
From the Other Side of the
Horizon: A photographic
document of people and
inhabited landscapes
Showcasing photographs
by leading landscape
photographer Kazuyoshi
Nomachi, who has spent
his photographic career
traveling and capturing
Showcasing 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
Tanomura Chikuden
Commemorating 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 Photo
Showcasing 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
Leonardo da Vinci and the
Battle of Anghiari: The
Mystery of Travola Doria
A 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
Masahisa Fukase: The
Incurable Egoist
Showcasing works by
Fukase, one of the most
influential figures in
Japanese photography,
whose dignified monotone
images depict a vicissitude
of unique irony and unending
loneliness. Until Aug 14,
11:30am-9pm. Free. Diesel
Art Gallery. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5468-5481. http://j.mp/
egoistfukase2015
Erik Satie and His Time
Exhibition focusing on the
activities of French composer
Satie, portraying his lesserknown side through the
works of artists who
inspired him and who were
inspired by him. Jul 8-Aug
30, 10am-7pm (until 9pm
on Fri & Sat). ¥500-1,200
(adv)/ ¥700-1,400 (door).
Bunkamura: The Museum.
Shibuya.
Tel: 03-5777-8600.
http://j.mp/satie2015
Fukagawa in the Snow:
The Reappearance of an
Utamaro Masterpiece
Showcasing 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. ¥1,8002,800. Okada Museum of Art.
Kowakidani. Tel: 0460-873931. www.okada-museum.
com/en
Art Nouveau Glass
Featuring 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
Yori Saito’s Gaze:
Celebrating the 130th
Birthday of a Nakamuraya
Salon Painter
Showcasing works by Saito,
an artist at the forefront of
the modern Japanese yōga,
or Western painting, at the
end of the Meiji era. Jul 4-Sep
27, 10:30am-7pm, closed Tue.
¥300. Nakamuraya Salon
Museum of Art. Shinjuku.
www.nakamuraya.co.jp/
museum
What is Realist Painting?
Exploring the diversity
and potential of realist
painting through 54 works
of landscapes, figures,
and more. Until Nov 15,
10am-5:30pm, closed Tue.
¥900-1,800. Hoki Museum.
Toke.
www.hoki-museum.jp/en/
Open Space 2015
Explore 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
Cleopatra and the Queens
of Egypt
Explore the life of Cleopatra
and other queens of Egypt who
had great influence over the
country’s politics and religion.
Jul 11-Sep 23, 9:30am-5pm
(until 8pm on Fri, 6pm on Sat,
Sun, & hols), closed Mon.
¥700-1,400 (adv)/ ¥900-1,600
(door). Tokyo National Museum.
Ueno. http://egypt2015.jp
Crafts Gallery for Kids +
Adults: Pika Boko—An
Onomatopoetic Guide to
Crafts
Explore the world of crafts
through onomatopoetic
descriptions of the works. Jul
14-Sep 27, 10am-5pm, closed
Mon. ¥70-210. The National
Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo.
Takebashi. Tel: 03-57778600. http://j.mp/pikaboko2015
Mitsuzawakamicho.
Tel: 04-5311-2016.
www.yokohamafc.com
Festivals
TRADITIONAL
Mitama Matsuri
Held in honor of the dead,
30,000 lanterns light the
way to Yasukuni Shrine, with
mikoshi parades, traditional
dance performances, and
more. Jul 13-16, 6pm.
Free. Yasukuni Shrine.
Kudanshita. Tel: 03-32618326. www.yasukuni.or.jp/
english
Kagurazaka Matsuri
Awa-odori performances,
a lantern plant market and
more. Jul 22-23, 5:30-10pm;
Jul 24-25, 7-9pm. Free.
Kagurazaka shopping
district. Kagurazaka. www.
kagurazaka.in
Ueno Summer Festival
Paper lanterns, ice
sculptures, antique markets,
and more. Jul 11-Aug 9,
various times. Free. Ueno
Park. Ueno. Tel: 03-38285644. www.ueno.or.jp
Markets
Shibuya. www.meetup.
com/TokyoStitchandBitch
Dr. Sketchy’s
Anti-Art School
Burlesque 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
Rhone Valley Wine
Seminar
A French gourmet dinner
with great wines in an
international atmosphere.
Jun 27, 7-10:30pm. ¥11,980
+ tax (adv). Restaurant Aux
Bacchanales. Akasakamitsuke. http://meturl.com/
monthlywine
Other Events
Writers’ Bloc, Tokyo:
Evening Musings 34
Share your offerings with
fellow scribes and lovers
of the spoken word. Jun
27, 7-9:30pm. Free. Loco
Popo Cal-Mex Restaurant.
Yotsuya. Tel: 03-53577013. www.locopopo.jp
Art in Wonderland
Antique Jamboree
A modern, interactive art
exhibition with installations
focusing on light and shadow
created by Japan’s leading
new media artists. Jul 17-Aug
31, 10am-6pm. ¥300-1,100
(adv)/ ¥500-1,500 (door).
Saitama Super Arena.
Saitama-Shintoshin. www.
mahou-museum.com
Haggle with dealers of
Japanese, European, and US
vintage collections. Aug 7 is a
special ticket holders’ event
for early buyers only. Aug
8-9, 10am-5pm. ¥800 (adv)/
¥1,000 (door), ¥2,000 (early
buyer adv)/ ¥3,000 (early
buyer door). Tokyo Big Sight.
Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon.
Tel: 03-5530-1111. http://j.
mp/antiquejamboree
Hotaru no Yube
Comedy
DJs, live acts, live painting,
and more. Jul 18-19, 2pm.
¥3,500 (adv) /¥4,500 (door).
Pyramid center. Yanagawa.
http://j.mp/guruguru2015
Mega Dinosaur Exhibition
Featuring the restored skeleton
of the Turiasaurus found in
Spain believed to be the largest
dinosaur ever found in Europe.
Jul 18-Aug 30, 9:30am-5pm.
¥800-1,600 (adv)/ ¥1,0002,000 (door). Makuhari Messe.
Kaihin-Makuhari. http://
mega2015.jp
Urameshiya: Art of the
Ghost
Featuring Zenshoan temple’s
collection of ghost paintings.
Jul 22-Sep 13, 10am-5pm,
closed Mon. ¥600-900
(adv)/ ¥700-1,100 (door).
The University Art Museum.
Ueno. Tel: 050-5525-2200.
www.tokyo-np.co.jp/event/
urameshiya
Sports
BASEBALL
Yakult Swallows vs. Yomiuri
Giants
Jun 28, 2pm. ¥500-24,000.
Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium.
Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows.
co.jp
Yomiuri Giants vs.
Toyo Carp
Jun 30-Jul 2, 6pm.
¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome.
Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en
Tokyo Impro Festival:
International Show
The international night of
comedy at the Tokyo Impro
Festival finds the Tokyo
Comedy Store joining forces
with Jibarito Improv Theater
from Spain. Side-splitting
times ahead! Jul 3, 7:30pm.
¥2,800 (adv), ¥3,000 (door).
Puka Theater. Shinjuku.
Bring this copy of Metropolis
for a ¥300 discount. www.
tokyoimpro.jp
New Material Night
Standup, improv, and
trying out new stuff. Jul 7
& 21, 8-10pm. Free. Double
Tall Cafe. Shibuya. Tel:
03-5467-4567. http://
tokyocomedy.com/new_
material_night
Stand-up Comedy at
The Hobgoblin
Stand-up comedians
with a variety of styles
performing in English. Jul 16,
9-10:30pm. Free. Hobgoblin
Shibuya. Shibuya. http://
tokyocomedy.com/standup_
comedy_at_the_hobgoblin
Enjoy a romantic evening lit
by 2,500 fireflies. Until Jun
28, 6-9pm. Free from 6-9pm
during firefly season. Yuyake
Koyake Fureai no Sato.
Takao. 30 mins by bus
from station. Tel: 042-6523072. http://meturl.com/
yuyakekoyake
Organic Freaky Gathering:
Guruguru Pyramid
Disney on Ice: Amazing
Anniversary
Watch your favorite Disney
characters, including Elsa
and Anna from Frozen,
dance on ice! Jul 18-22,
various times. ¥2,900-6,000.
Yoyogi National Gymnasium.
Meiji-Jingumae. Aug 20-24,
various times. ¥2,9006,000. Yokohama Arena.
Shin-Yokohama. http://j.
mp/disneyonice2015
Bolshoi Circus
Consisting 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. ¥3,7006,200. Tokyo Taiikukan.
Kokuritsu-kyogijo or
Sendagaya.
www.bolshoicircus.com
Community
Half-Fast Cyclists
Jun 30-Jul 2, 6pm.
¥500-30,000. Meiji Jingu
Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae.
Tel: 03-3404-8999.
www.yakult-swallows.co.jp
Bicyclists 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
SOCCER
Stitch-n-Bitch
Yakult Swallows vs.
Hanshin Tigers
Yokohama FC vs.
Consadole Sapporo
Jul 4, 6pm. ¥600-4,700.
Nippatsu Mitsuzawa Stadium.
Meet fellow knitters,
crocheters and sewers to
talk, share ideas, eat, drink
and create. Every first and
third Tue, 7pm. Free. Pariya.
MORE LISTINGS
ONLINE → HTTP://
METURL.COM/
LISTINGS
27
Metropolis and its Classifieds
section are printed every
other week. The upcoming
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corresponding deadlines
for print are as follows. This
does not affect the online
Classifieds, where ads are
visible immediately after
they are approved.
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photo. Bronze ¥2000 (photo
+ ¥2000). Prices are for 4 0
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email us at commercial@
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system, full English support.
Call us today! 03-5437-5233
www.japt.co.jp
1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES
TO ADVERTISE IN METROPOLIS,
lo g o n a t w w w.met ro p ol is .
co.jp/classifieds or email your
commercial ads to commercial@
metropolisjapan.com.
SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY
(physical therapy) care in Hiroo.
Native English-speaking
therapists specializing
in sports injuries,
post-operative rehabilitation,
back /neck pain, running
related, headaches, orthotics,
ergonomic consultations
and women’s health.
www.tokyophysio.com
03-3443-6769
naturalization, eligibility
(inviting your spouse/
children/workers from
your country), extension/
change of visa status.
Consultation ¥5000. OFFICE
LIFE (Miho Fujibayashi).
Tel: 090 - 8330 - 0670 Email:
mailto@officelife.jp Website:
http://officelife.jp/en
I M M I G R AT I O N L A W Y E R AT
N I PPA S H I O FFI CE s u p p o r t s
visa and naturalization
applications, company
establishment and branch
office installation, including
commercial registration, as
well as inheritance procedures
in Japan. Free consultation
available in English,
Español and Japanese.
Tel: 03-6264-8446
np@nippashi.com
http://nippashi.com
VISA COUNSELING:
female immigration lawyer
handles your visa case.
Permanent residency,
S E R V I C E D A PA R T M E N T S i n
a quiet residential area of
Hiroo. Studios and suites.
4min from Hiroo Stn. Rates:
Daily ¥7800. Weekly ¥6850-/
d a y . M o n t h l y ¥ 570 0 - /d a y .
O ver t hre e mont hs ¥ 513 0 - /
day. Tax, utilities included.
frontdesk@azabucourt.
co m w w w. a z a b u co u r t .co m
0 3 - 3 4 4 6 - 8 6 1 0
3 EDUCATION
3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS
J A PA N E S E L E S S O N S f o r a l l
levels from experienced private
t e a c h e r a l o n g t h e Ya m a n o t e
Line. Lesson fee: free. Let's enjoy
Japanese language and culture.
Please contact Setsuko. Email:
nihongo12345678@yahoo.co.jp
3.4 ENGLISH TEACHERS
ENERGETIC, FULLY QUALIFIED
AUSTRALIAN FEMALE TEACHER,
more than 10 years’ experience
providing quality English language
lessons in informal and relaxed
atmosphere. I teach evenings
and weekends in Ningyocho and
Yot su ya - S anchome. Children ,
groups, business people are
welcome! ginab12@hotmail.com
3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE
Arabic, English, Japanese. Need
someone to help me study beginner
Arabic or intermediate E. Business
conversation or discussion in E. Just
introductions or simple conversations
in Arabic. Looking forward to hearing
from you soon. rskmrt@gmail.com
English and Japanese. Open-minded
Japanese female, 23-40, sought for
language exchange and socializing.
Serious only. Call Bobby at 0905589-6864 or 080-8118-4073 or email
mybaby-precious@docomo.ne.jp.
English and Japanese. I would like to
help you learn J if you need a partner
for practice. You don't need to teach
me back. Serious people only, please.
happylovemusic0808@gmail.com
English and Japanese. JF seeks an
exchange partner in the daytime on
weekdays at Kawasaki Stn. tome.
haruka-soushi@ezweb.ne.jp
RENTAL APARTMENTS,
HOUSES, CONDOS AND
S T U D I O S i n Yo ko h a m a ,
Kawasaki, Tokyo, and near
US military bases. English speaking staff will guide you
through the renting process.
For a stress-free search,
contact Rent Life. 045 - 470 32 14 w w w.rent- yokohama.
com/english e-yokohama@rlife.co.jp
English and Japanese. イライラ. Do
you ever feel that no matter how much
you study, you get worse? I'm seeking
someone for casual E/J chats in a bar
(like HUB) after work. I'm an English
guy. exc1t3@outlook.com
English and Japanese. Hi! I'm a
Canadian, 29, who's recently moved
to Tokyo. I'm a J beginner and would
love to practice with a native speaker.
In exchange, I'd be happy to help
you practice E. Cheers! metropolis@
adammcnamara.com
English and Japanese. Hello, I'm a JF,
25. I would like to do language exchange
and make friends. I want to learn E, and
I can help you with J. Please feel free to
email me. nakamu-ran87@i.softbank.jp
T H I N K I N G A B O U T
ADVERTISING WITH
METROPOLIS ? Platinum
English and Japanese. Interesting,
well- educated, cute S JM seek s
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.
languageex2010@gmail.com
English and Japanese. Hello, I am
Takeshi, a businessman, 41, around
Tokyo. Please teach me E. I can
teach you J. Let's meet in Shinjuku.
kotakeshi0923@gmail.com
English and Japanese. Hi, JF seeking
a native English speaker for serious
language exchange. I live and work in
Yokohama. Let's talk in E and J about
a variety of topics. from.kaori0113@
gmail.com
English and Japanese. Professional,
educated Japanese man seeking a
language exchange partner to improve
his English. I can teach you J in return.
Beginners/advanced welcome. Let's
enjoy sharing our cultures and interests.
Shinjuku preferred, but central Tokyo
ok. kzktnk@gmail.com
English and Japanese. Black British
guy, 35, seeks language exchange
friend. Serious only. mcstan3@yahoo.
com 07070111702
English and Japanese. American expat
male, 36, working and living in Minato.
I have free time from 11am-2pm on
weekdays. No evening/night meetings.
savageyouth@gmail.com
French and Japanese. Fr and J exchange
in Ikebukuro. winds_fr@hotmail.com
German and Japanese. Hello, I am
30s, living in Tokyo. I want to learn Ger.
I'm still just a beginner. I'm seeking
women who can speak Ger. I can help
your Japanese. Let's help each other.
banbi.rnd.0303@docomo.ne.jp
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 line. gardenstate2005@
hotmail.com
Korean and English. 요즘일어배
우고있고한국어안쓰 기
땜에한국어거의다까먹었나봐.
juicysummer@gmail.com
3.9 TEACH ME!
T R A N S L AT I O N F O R E N G L I S H
LESSONS. Working towards
becoming an English-to-Japanese
translator, but need help polishing
my English. Can translate simple
documents in exchange for
English lessons. michiane256@
gmail.com
English lessons. JM, 30, seeks native
English teacher for reasonably priced
lessons at a cafe in central Tokyo.
umek2002jp@yahoo.co.jp
Karate lesson for English or Spanish
lesson. Do you seriously want to learn
real karate? I can teach you one of the
major styles of traditional Japanese
karate for free in exchange for English
or Spanish lessons. gnbkaijpn@gmail.
com
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. yatri_in_town@
yahoo.co.jp
4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS
4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS
Furniture sale! Black leather sofa,
four-piece sectional, one y/o. New
¥100,000. Sell ¥25,000. Pair of Nissen
desks, mahogany look, one y/o. New
¥50,000. Sell ¥10,000. Pick up only
Kikukawa. sayonaranippon2015@
outlook.com
Futon set, double, hardly used,
clean, mattress and futon ¥3000. Pick
up central Tokyo. Photo available.
moonquake07@yahoo.co.jp
4.2 APPLIANCES
Fridge, Hitachi R-SF40WMV, '07, sixdoor, 395L (W600xH1798xD615mm),
stainless steel, as new ¥40,000. Pick up
Minato-ku. jeff.acton@gmail.com
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. astralsky@
excite.co.jp
Laminator, w/pouch film, A4 and A3, 100
pieces each ¥4900. tsuneokobayashi@
hotmail.com
Pekingese, English, Japanese. Hello,
I’m a Japanese woman, 40s. I’m fluent
in J and E and am seeking a native
Pekingese speaker in the Jiyugaoka,
Futako-Tamagawa or Yokohama area.
We can meet at a cafe after 6pm on
weekdays. starshipenterprise2015@
hotmail.com
Sayonara sale! Designer sofa cushions,
almost brand new ¥5000/obo. Two coffee
tables ¥1500/each. HP all-in-one printer,
w/fax, in excellent condition ¥4500.
Deluxe sofabed, in good condition
¥15,000. And more. takecareletsgo@
yahoo.com
Spanish and Japanese. Busco amigos
latinoamericanos para amistad e
intercambio de idioma en Tokio.
tempstadesjp@gmail.com
Spanish and Japanese. If you have
time in the morning (or late at night)
and want to seriously exchange J for Sp,
let me know, please. I am a Spanish man
living in Tokyo. Gracias. soresore26@
gmail.com
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.
juicysummer@gmail.com
3.6 LEARNING: GENERAL
4.3 SAYONARA SALE
4.7 FOR FREE
Washer, in great condition, works well.
Pick up Kichijoji or pay for takkyubin
yourself. sebuuuuuuu@gmail.com
5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS
5.1 CAMERAS
Lens, Canon zoom EF-S 18-55 1:3.55.6 IS, in excellent condition ¥6000.
deshayes.g@gmail.com
5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT
Sound module, Roland MK S -50
analog synthesizer, in very good
condition ¥29,000. Pick up Senzoku
Stn, Tokyu Meguro Line. deshayes.g@
gmail.com
Sound module, Korg TR-Rack, in good
condition ¥20,000. Pick up Senzoku
Stn, Tokyu Meguro Line. deshayes.g@
gmail.com
IKEBANA (JAPANESE
TRADITIONAL FLORAL
ARRANGEMENT) is a powerful
means of self-expression. Trial
lesson, including all materials
¥4000. No Japanese
necessary. Certification,
diploma can be earned. Three
classroom locations in Tokyo.
Website: w w w.atelier-soka.
com/english/index.html
Email: smile@mika-otani.com
5.5 GAMING
Airsoft gun, APS-1 Dominator ¥10,000.
gnbkaijpn@gmail.com
5.7 PETS
Seeking dog in Yokosuka area. Is there
some kind of animal shelter somewhere
near Yokosuka where we can get a dog?
We would prefer not to be any part of
the Japanese pet business. Suggestions
welcome. thomasmann@gmx.com
The majority of classified ads have moved online! classifieds.metropolis.co.jp
from Apr to Sep. Everyone
welcome. Contact for more details.
japananzacs@gmail.com
6 VEHICLES
6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES
Bike, six-gear, in excellent condition,
hardly used, w/all papers, manual
¥15,000. Delivery possible if within
30min. broadmind@gmail.com
7 GENERAL
7.1 PHONES
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 call
0570 - 000 -911. To volunteer or
support, please contact team@jhelp.
com. www.jhelp.com
iPhone 6 64GB, SoftBank, used less than
one week ¥55,000. Photos available by
request. froglife@outlook.com
Smartphone, Motorola Moto G Android,
16GB, dual SIM, 3G, 4.5" screen, Lollipop
5.0.2, in good condition ¥20,000.
gewatson@gmail.com 08041742054
Smartphone, Lumia 640 LTE, latest
model, 8GB RAM, opened box for testing,
unlocked, imported from the UK, as
new ¥25,000. gewatson@gmail.com
08041742054
7.4 ITEMS WANTED
Baby items: pram, clothes, toys, etc.
Thank you. paulwalsh@email2me.net
Bike, for tall adult male, free or very
cheap. living_large@email2me.net
Massage tables, one or two. Otemachi
area. winds_fr@hotmail.com
8 COMPUTERS
8.2 HARDWARE
Monitor, widescreen ¥1800. gnbkaijpn@
gmail.com
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
Guarantor. Seeking one hoshonin for
starting a healing cafe. I have ejuken.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
winds_fr@hotmail.com
Someone in Camp Zama. Are you
working or staying at Camp Zama? I
need your help. I would appreciate it
if you could contact me. Thanks a lot!
sophyinternational2020@gmail.com
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 welcome.
Please, if interested, let us come to an
agreement. samueladonkor@gmail.
com 090-6152-6274
Translation. Hello, I am an Englishman,
40. I need somebody to translate
something from English to Japanese.
Can you help me? I can teach you some
English if you'd like, or I can buy you a
meal. mod4all@yandex.com
To advertise in Metropolis, Japan’s
No.1 English magazine, log on at www.
metropolis.co.jp/classifieds or email
your commercial ads to commercial@
metropolisjapan.com.
10.2 SUPPORT
N E E D T O TA L K ? W e ’ r e h e r e
to listen. TELL LIFELINE: free,
anonymous English counseling
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: affordable
multilingual psychotherapy by
accredited Western-trained
professionals, a CIGNA International
Provider (03 - 4550 -1146). TELL
website: www.telljp.com. Follow
us on Facebook and Twitter @
TokyoLifeLine.
WEST PAPUA: ONE SOUL, ONE
PEOPLE . Fif t y-t wo year s ago,
West Papua should have been an
independent country. Since 1969,
West Papua has been invaded
and the people robbed of their
rights, culture and country. Help
support West Papuans’ desire to
be free. http://tapol.gn.apc.org
papuansbehindbars.org
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.
info@peersupporttokyo.com 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. admin@ttctokyo.
org www.ttctokyo.org
10.3 LOST FRIENDS
I N T E R N AT I O N A L E V E N T S .
Looking to join a variety 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
Meetup Group has events
such as international parties,
picnics, free live English
comedy, one-day trips,
language exchange and
many more. Check this link for
further details; www.meetup.
com/tokyoites
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-candrink-and-eat. Iidabashi and
Yo k o h a m a : J u l y 4 a n d 1 8 .
Shibuya: June 27 and July 11.
www.leafparty.com
S U B S C R I B E TO M E TR O P O LI S
AND NEVER MISS AN ISSUE.
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). Details at http://
metropolisjapan.com/subscription.
13 CLUBS & INTERESTS
13.1 SPORTS
Met on JR Yamanote Line on
Sat, June 13. We got on the
train at Ebisu Stn. You’re in
the US Army and tried to add
me on LINE, but I guess it
didn’t work. Contact me here.
hachiko109@lycos.com
12 SOCIAL SCENE
12.1 LET’S PARTY
JAPAN INTERNATIONAL PARTY
– EARLY SUMMER SPECIAL.
Sat, June 27, 6:30-9pm, Bar
Quest (Roppongi). Japan’s
biggest international party.
250 people expected. All-youcan-drink and free snacks.
Japanese men: ¥ 4000.
O t h e r s : ¥ 3 0 0 0. M o b i l e:
h t t p: //g e t yo u r f r i e n d .co m
mobile/ jiparty@hotmail.com
w w w. g e t y o u r f r i e n d . c o m
090-1735-5405
JOIN THE BIGGEST, BEST, MOST
POPULAR INTERNATIONAL
PARTY! 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
info@gaitomo.com
JUST A 3MIN WALK FROM
ROPPONG I HILL S, Club 360
is Tokyo’s premier health and
fitness club. No membership
or joining fees. Personal
training, physiotherapy,
fitness classes, kickboxing,
boxing, massage. info@
club360.jp w w w.club360.jp
03-6434-9667
AMERICAN FOOTBALL.
N ihon Unis ys B ulls , 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 practice must be
ove r 6 0% . Pl e ase co nt ac t fo r
tryout info and send your profile to
team admin. bullsxleague@gmail.
co m h t t p: // w w w.u n i s y s .co. j p/
football
A L L - N AT I O N A L I T Y TO U C H
F O OT B A L L . N o n - c o n t a c t t a g
rugby (OZ tag) and Rugby
League players. We play ever y
Sat from 10am in Tatsumi. M/F
and beginners welcome! Good
exercise and fun! M any other
activities, such as BBQs and
drinking parties! Email for details.
tokyorugbyleague@hotmail.com
http://ameblo.jp/tokyo13warriors
A M AT 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 g by Le a g u e of f icia l g am e s
FUN WITH TOUCH RUGBY! Join
us for social or competitive touch
rugby ever y Sat at 2:30pm by
Ariake Stn, Yurikamome Line. Any
age, sex, level ok. Please email
for details. funwithtouch@gmail.
c o m w w w. f u n w i t h t o u c h .c o m /
where-we-play
P L AY R U G B Y. T h e To k y o
Crusaders are a friendly but
keen international rugby club.
D evo te d to t h e g a m e a n d i t s
social side, the “Cru” welcomes
all players and supporters.
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
s p o r t f ro m S co t l a n d . U s i n 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:
w w w.t a m j a p a n .o r g /e n / i n f o @
tamjapan.org
All-level tennis group in Tokyo.
Serious and motivated tennis players
sought by active tennis group to join
their weekly sessions in central Tokyo.
We have advanced and intermediate
groups on weekday evenings. Beginner
and low-intermediate also welcome.
No entrance or membership fees.
Reasonable participation fees. tokyo.
tennis@yahoo.fr
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.
starbay5555@yahoo.co.jp
Don’s Half-Fast Flash-Mob Weekend
Urban Bicycle Rides. halffastcycling@
hotmail.com
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.
futsalintokorozawa@gmail.com
Futsal players wanted by a very
friendly international team. Practice is
in Tokyo and Kanagawa on Sat. Details
available. fkkyn468@ybb.ne.jp
Futsal team. Intermediate futsal team
in Tokyo seeks people who can enjoy
the game with others. Please introduce
yourself (full name, age, nationality,
where you live, whether you belong to
another team). umek2002jp@yahoo.
co.jp
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. norio.
ooba@pfizer.com https://sites.google.
co m / ka n a g a w a m a p le le a f s / h o m e
03-3258-5401
Interested in tai chi? Then why not
start now? Take a step to counter the
stresses of daily living. Practice is in
Toyama Park on Sun mornings, near
Takadanobaba stn. chifact@gmail.
com
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. tennis.tokyo@yahoo.fr
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?
inter vollclub@yahoo.co.jp http://
intervoll.sakura.ne.jp/
Weekend futsal team in Tokyo.
Please int roduce your self (ful l
name, age, nationality, whether you
belong to another team, experience,
etc.). 都内週末フットサルチーム.
umek2002jp@yahoo.co.jp
Women’s football club. Five-aside, 11-a-side, on grass fields. Two
or three practices/matches on Sun.
All nationalities, experience levels,
beginner s welcome. Happy and
friendly club! We have many socials.
djnorio@hotmail.co.jp
13.2 LEISURE
MACARTHUR HEIGHTS.
Ta ke a b r e a k w h e r e G e n e r a l
Douglas MacArthur did! One
hour from Tokyo by car or direct
train. Beautiful cabins on the
ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping.
housinginjapan@yahoo.com
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. tome.haruka-soushi@
ezweb.ne.jp
Tokyo ET contact group. Join us
beneath the stars as we endeavor to
make contact with ET visitors and their
craft. Our next ET contact event will
take place on July 18/19 in the Kiyosato
Highlands, Yamanashi Prefecture.
nakanosky@gmail.com http://www.
meetup.com/Tokyo-ET-Contact-Group/
events/193113322/
Tokyo Extreme Weekenders. For
those who like to escape into nature
to enjoy four seasons of adventure and
activities with like-minded people, our
purpose is to have fun and fulfilling
weekends. Subscribe to mailing list
for latest details. tokyoweekenders@
gmail.com http://tokyoweekenders.
jimdo.com
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 contac t us. m _a _ b1998@
yahoo.co.jp
Compose tunes with me. I'm a JM
guitarist in Tokyo seeking someone
to write and compose tunes with. I
like pop, rock, punk, R&B. Let's play
music and write songs together. riku_
hiroxx@hotmail.com
Seeking vocalist. I'm a JF seeking a
vocalist who can sing in English. I like
Korn, Limp, Stone Sour, Disturbed,
etc. We can compose online, so it
doesn't matter where you live. moshe.
information@gmail.com
13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT
International futsal, five-a-side, on
weekends in Tokyo. Friendly club, all
nationalities welcome. djnorio0417@
yahoo.co.jp
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. bfcvagabonds@gmail.com
Seeking Japanese archery
companions. Let’s do kyudo near
Tokyo. Once/month for three hours,
weekends only. See website for
details. datemasamune216@yahoo.
co.jp http://jmty.jp/tokyo/com-spo/
article-qa3g
Tennis in central Tokyo. Active group
of tennis friends in central Tokyo
B EG INNE RS TAI CHI AND Q I
GONG class starts on Thu, July
9, in Roppongi. Regular practice
brings better health, increased
energy levels and a greater
a b il ity to d e a l w it h s t res s .
Contact mari@meiquantaichi.
com.
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. daginia@gmail.com 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. tokyozazen@jcom.home.ne.jp
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。 winds_fr@hotmail.com
13.9 INTERNATIONAL
Intercultural activities. JII (Japan
Intercultural Institute) is a non-profit,
member-run organization that sponsors
activities (seminars, cultural events,
conferences) for those wanting to further
develop intercultural competencies
and meet other interculturalists. yuko.
bolick@japanintercultural.org www.
japanintercultural.org
Morning coffee. Come and chat with
members of Minato International
Association. This month, we will talk
about the Japanese education system
and izakaya restaurant menus! June 27,
10am-12pm, at MIA (1-6-3, Kita-Aoyama,
Minato-ku). airkei23@gmail.com http://
minato-intl-assn.gr.jp/en/event/schedule
03-3411-5637
Nihongo 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. nci_tokyo@yahoo.co.jp
14 PERSONALS
14.1 FRIENDS
Kichijoji. British guy living in Kichijoji.
I am seeking some people also living in
Kichijoji to hang out, have drinks, etc. All
my friends are in central and it would be
cool to know someone more local. Any
nationality. onzeetop@gmail.com
Let's hit the town! Fun guy, living
and working in Tokyo, originally from
near London, seeking new friends to
grab drinks with and have fun around
Tokyo. Any nationality/age/sex ok (I'm
straight). ballyho@outlook.com
Photography. Seeking someone
interested in photography to hang
out with, take pictures around Tokyo.
Beginner or experienced welcome. I have
experience, but I'm not a professional. I
can teach a beginner though. I'm an
English male, living/working in Tokyo.
juicysummer@gmail.com
Seeking friends in central Tokyo. JF,
early 30s, seeks friends to hang out with
in central Tokyo. atkm92@yahoo.co.jp
14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN
S E E K I N G A S U G A R DA D DY ?
Safely meet rich and elite
men while having fun and
making money. We are a
members-only dating club
with strict rules. Foreign and
Japanese executives, lawyers,
celebrities. Not an escort
clu b. N o ch ar g e fo r fe m ale
members. 0120-675 -858 (E)
international@universe-club.jp
ht t p: //u ni ve r s e - clu 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 (40
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 excitement 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。tokyormce@
yahoo.com
29
Many more classified ads online! Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp
Big black guy for you. I want to give
beautiful ladies lots of fun. Satisfaction
guaranteed. Skilled, very experienced,
well-muscled, no strings attached. Find
what you've been missing. tokioitelive@
gmail.com
TOKYO FURNISHED APARTMENTS
NO
key money, deposit,
agent fee, guarantor
URL: www.tokyoeasyrent.com/en TEL: 03-5437-5233
WADA Legal & Administrative Office
We can help you with:
Reasonable prices.
Free first time consultation
Visa and immigration
Other Legal & Business matters
Patent attorney
Immigration lawyer
www.j-star.jp
Grand Prince
Hotel Akasaka
Exit 4,
Nagatacho stn
Supreme
Court
Imperial
Palace
Aoyama Ave
Akasaka
Mitsuke
stn
Akasaka
Excel
Hotel
Tokyu
National
Diet
Library
608 Kitano Arms 16-15, Hirakawa-cho, 2-Chome, Chiyoda-ku ,Tokyo, 102-0093
Tel: 03-5216-6890 Fax: 03-5216-6891
Email: hiroshioogai@j-star.jp
“IMAMURA KINEN” LAW OFFICE
今村記念法律事務所
WE PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE BY THE LAWYER,
ACCOMPANIED WITH A QUALIFIED
INTERPRETER IN ENGLISH OR FRENCH.
Visa and Immigration issues
Naturalization, mixed marriage, etc.
Car Accident, Inheritance, Labor Dispute
Yusuke Totsuka,
Lawyer
Yuta Watanabe,
Lawyer
Hiroaki Sugiyama,
Lawyer
Tel: 090-8487-1968
If not available 080-4864-1258
30
Find me! Western male, early 40s,
single, no children yet, living and
working in southwest Tokyo, seeks a
Japanese woman, 30s, for a serious
relationship. I have a stable job, like
to travel, am family friendly, like
Japanese culture. lemonpuddingjp@
outlook.com
French connection. Frenchman,
kind, well-mannered, attractive and
athletic, seeking a kind, young JF,
elegant, slim and well-educated,
to hang out together, and if there's
a good connection, for a long-term
relationship. ol24107@gmail.com
We can support you with:
Hiroshi Oogai,
Cute, interesting Japanese male
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.
juniperten2013@gmail.com
European gentleman, 40s, tall,
educated, good-looking, S, seeks M
lady, 35 or younger, with unusual
fantasies, ready to explore her wild
side. One mouse click can make your
secret desires come true! aminimia@
yahoo.com
J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE
Establishing a Company &
Branch office
Chubby woman. Japanese man, 40s,
gentle, open-minded, romantic, seeks
chubby girlfriend for a long-term
relationship. Any age, nationality ok.
Please do not hesitate—you are a lovely
woman. gnbkaijpn@gmail.com
English and French. French
businessman, 45, tall, fit, is seeking a
nice native female English speaker for
exchange lessons in downtown Tokyo.
houlala2000-2001@yahoo.fr
http://www.wada-lats.com/
E-mail: info@wada-lats.com
3-5-3-1402 Nishi-Shinjuku,
Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023
Intellectual property rights
(Patent, trademark, copyrights)
Caring and cute JM seeks attractive,
hearty, nonsmoking Western female for
friendship. I simply would like to share
fun, interesting and great experiences
with you. If you feel the same way, just
drop me a line. jinzaixyz@yahoo.co.jp
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. followupforme14@gmail.com
• Visa & Immigration Procedures
• Mixed Marriage, Naturalisation
and Refugee Status
• Establishing a Company &
Branch Office
• Accounting Services, Acquiring
Business Licences
• Preparation/Translation of
Legal & Business Documents
• Other Legal & Business Matters
For information:
Tel: (03) 3345-7977
FAX: (03) 3345-5377
Brazilian manga artist seeking real
love with JF. I am a Brazilian man
seeking a serious relationship with
a Japanese woman. bestyoshiki@
hotmail.com w w w.facebook.com/
ameto.hero
Corporate Legal matters, Contracts, etc.
PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IN ENGLISH,
FRENCH OR JAPANESE IF YOU NEED LEGAL ASSISTANCE.
Our office is located in Jinbocho, very close from the station (A2 exit)
1F Senshu Daigaku 8-Go 1-Kan, Jinbocho 2-8-3 Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Funny Indian engineer seeking JF friend
in/around Tokyo, Shinagawa or Yokohama
Stn. I am very funny to talk to and can speak
Japanese and English fluently. ramanuj.
yokohama@gmail.com
German and Japanese. Asian male
seeking fluent German speaker. Prefer
a patient, mature woman, 26-36. Meet
weekly after work (6:30-10pm), around
Mitaka/Kichijoji/Shinjuku/Kanda/Ueno
area. yatri_in_town@yahoo.co.jp
German guy seeking cute JF. Hey, I am
28, living and working in central Tokyo. I
am seeking a JF to have fun with or even
more. lstyle.tokyo87@gmail.com
Girlfriend. Japanese man, 45, decent,
cultured, with a good sense of humor,
seeking a lady of any age, Japanese or
foreign, to enjoy friendship. gnbkaijpn@
gmail.com
International girl? UK guy, lived in
several countries, traveled in several
more, loves new experiences, meeting
new people, seeking new friends for
drinks after work. Any nationality, but
no language exchange. jazzbullet@
outlook.com
Italian, English, Japanese. I am
an Italian man, 48, working as a
professional in central Tokyo. I am
seeking a Japanese woman to exchange
It/E/J. vbcfgt@hotmail.com
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. ruby12ax7@gmail.com
Long-term relationship and possibly
more. Bilingual clinical doctor, 30,
seeking a kind and serious woman, any
race, age, looks, interested in having
a nice and possibly regular massage
exchange. I like traveling, sports,
watching movies. tkyo_b@yahoo.co.jp
Married gentleman seeks love with
married gentlewoman. Is it possible?
Maybe not. vbcfgt@hotmail.com
Natural, open-minded female wanted.
Caucasian guy, free-spirited, passionate
about healthy lifestyle, seeking similar
female to join me in natural lifestyle.
You must be open-minded, enjoy nature,
cooking, onsen, music and want to live
in mountains with me. moreyama@
hushmail.com
Romance with an older lady. Very nice
and sexy gentleman seeks an older, or
much older, woman to have nice dates
and a romance. feeltokyo@yahoo.co.uk
you are comfortable, I can give you a
massage. zzztopsandfingers@hotmail.
co.uk
UK lady. SJM, 30s, tall, slim, lover
of books, films and music, seeks an
attractive British lady with the same
interests. hurryondownboy@yahoo.co.jp
Very serious about meeting someone
special. I am seeking one very
special person for the possibility of
a life-long relationship. I am visiting
Japan and am hoping to live here
full-time. segalatodd@gmail.com
artisanservicesla.com
WM in Tokyo seeking a pretty girl,
18-35. I am tall, white, with blue eyes.
I speak Japanese. chrischrisjapan34@
yahoo.com
14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN
Running partners sought by American
male, for running, but also friendship.
Jogging, not fast running. Yokohama
area is really good. mikedokter@
icloud.com
Seeking friend to explore Tokyo.
American, 40s, tall, slim, blue eyes,
frequent visitor to Tokyo, seeks JF to
explore Tokyo together: restaurants,
jazz clubs, museums, sightseeing. Will
pay expenses for local friend who can be
a guide. calchamp@gmail.com
Seeking fun. SWM, 28, French, seeking
people who want fun like me. My life
is stable, but boring and stressful. I
need excitement for my mental health
balance. If you feel the same way,
contact me, please. reydajp@yahoo.
co.jp
Seeking large Japanese girlfriend.
Canadian guy, 40s, open-minded,
gentle, romantic, positive, seeks
overweight girlfriend for a long-term
relationship in Tokyo. Serious only,
please. bbalajan@yahoo.com
Seeking mature JF. Cool guy, 40s,
positive, romantic, honest, a gentleman,
seeks a JF, 40s-50s, for a long-term
relationship. nnazila73@yahoo.com
Seeking my missing rib. I believe in the
power of love and that everyone has that
special person created just for them. If
you believe the same, then do message
me so we can get to know each other.
andremenandes@outlook.com
Seeking serious relationship.
European guy, early 40s, positive,
easygoing, gentle, romantic, lots of
hobbies, seeking female, 35-55, openminded, easygoing, enjoys simple
things. Speak Nihongo. No busy people,
please. bbamian@yahoo.com
Seeking travel friend. English boy,
under 35, seeking a friend to travel
around Tokyo, relax, enjoy language
exchange and have fun with on
weekends. Let's be friends first and
see what happens. Nonsmokers only.
tokyochuchu@hotmail.com
Serious relationship with SJF. Seeking
a SJF who wants a serious relationship
leading to settling down with a family
and kids. If you're interested, please
reply. No gamers. Serious only. Send
me your photo along with your email.
pjoseph74716@hotmail.com
Serious relationship. 日本語大丈夫
です. European man, mid-30s, living and
working in Tokyo, likes travel, sports,
movies, seeks a serious relationship.
leventdunord2015@gmail.com
Single, handsome and caring Japanese
male seeks a nice Western or Japanese
female for friendship and possibly
more. Nonsmokers preferred. If you
are interested in exciting, happy times
with nice conversation, please email
me. Let's share secrets with each other.
cioinjapan@gmail.com
Summer sun, a walk in the park, sitting
in the shade with a glass of wine and
obento, watching birds fly high in the
sky. Ah, I'm dreaming of the weekend
again. Want to join me? I'm English and
love life. summerfunk@googlemail.com
Thai massage from Brit. Single British
man, 36, studying Thai massage from
a book. I want practical experience.
Seeking partner to practice on. Large
strong hands. Meet for coffee, and if
LAVISH DATES AND
INDULGENT NIGHTS—WE
C R E AT E O P P O R T U N IT I E S
for elite foreign males to meet
ele g ant Jap anese females.
Start with a luxurious dinner
date, take the night where you
want it to g o. Fres h, y oun g
women join our club every day.
0120-978-649 (E)
international@universe-club.jp
http://universe-club.jp/en
American or European man? I am
seeking an American or European man,
single or divorced, professional and
confident. I am a tall SJF. fumiyomuroya@
yahoo.co.jp
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.
hiroko_linuma@hotmail.com
Email exchange. Hi, I’m a JF, 30s, living
in Australia for work, seeking someone
who is happy to exchange emails and
talk about everyday stuff. sangojp@
yahoo.com
Happy with my life, looks; happiest when
I am with my love. Fun, educated JF, mid40s, hopes to become your sweetest,
smartest, hottest woman who brightens
your day. You're an English-speaking
business pro, 50+ is very welcome.
brown3prettyeyes@gmail.com
Hello, there. I'm a nonsmoking single
Japanese female, 40, educated, slim,
young-looking, seeking a SWM in Tokyo
for a long-term relationship. Let's be
friends first! tokyo_2015@outlook.jp
JF seeking activity partner in Tokyo.
Restaurants, museums, cultural events
in Tokyo, weekday nights or weekends,
50 or older. Please write exactly which
events you are intereted in. No lovers/
photo seekers. mikstgy-metropolis@
yahoo.co.jp
JF seeking partner. I'm a JF, early 30s,
seeking a partner, 30-40, who is atheist,
any nationality. I've lived abroad for a
long time and I can converse in English/
Japanese. sangojp@yahoo.com
Love is indispensable. JF, 30s, pretty,
educated, seeks a single businessman
who is smart, handsome, in Tokyo.
Caucasian only. Email w/your profile.
springwinds14@yahoo.co.jp
Love summer beaches and bikinis?
Golden hair, blue eyes? SJF who loves
yoga, sunshine, seeking a single goldenhaired, blue-eyed man for relaxing
beachside on weekends or holidays.
tokyomiffy@gmail.com
Multiply happiness. Affectionate,
caring, fun-loving, professional,
multilingual JF seeks a mature,
sophisticated gentleman, 35-45, for
a meaningful long-term relationship.
Enjoy traveling, water sports, nice
dining, music, art, reading? We can
multiply happiness by sharing it!
icedcoconutmilktea@hotmail.com
Rebirth our lives. Seeking love and
relationship, eventually partnership.
Japanese female, people say attractive
JOBS
To advertise:
commercial@metropolisjapan.com
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@le a f cu p.co m
www.leafcup.com/job.php
03-4588-2277
HIRING BARTENDERS FOR NEW BAR,
KAMIKAZE, IN SHINJUKU. Proper visa
required; experience, Japanese
language ability preferred. Part-time
¥1000~/h. Full-time ¥300,000~/m.
Open 5pm -5am, working hours
n e g o t i a b l e . Te l : 080 -1274 - 8069
Email: archive77@hotmail.co.jp URL:
www.facebook.com/BAR.KAMIKAZE.
KABUKICHO
20% discount on first visit
Akasaka Stn
STAFF WANTED AT THE NEW MATRIX
BAR ROPPONGI. Seeking hall staff and
bartender. Working days: Thu, Fri,
Sat, day before national holidays. For
more info, please call 03-3405-1066,
or email matrixparties@gmail.com.
www.matrixbar.jp 03-3405-1066
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 fine 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 winejob@
metropolisjapan.com.
メトロポリスはバイリンガル（日英）の営業 アシス
タントとスタッフを募集しています。是非、私達の
広告マーケティングチームに加わりませんか！ 応募
条件：責任感をもって勤勉に取り組める方、協調性
があり、意欲を持って主体的に働ける方を募集して
います。営業経験のある方は歓迎します。フルタイ
ム (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-6:30pm) で働ける方
に限ります。jobs@metropolisjapan.com
WANT TO HELP CREATE METROPOLIS?
We’re seeking social media, web, and
editorial interns. Great opportunity
to gain experience in a multimedia
company ! To ap p l y, send intro
let ter, CV and relevant clips to
editor@metropolisjapan.com.
and sweet yet intriguing and unique,
seeking a well-educated, active, smart
gentleman with a positive outlook on
life. Singles only. I am 40s. amrita_
banana2014@yahoo.co.jp
Seeking single guy for long-term
relationship. Japanese woman, 42, in
Tokyo, seeking a serious relationship.
Interest s: hiking, scuba diving,
reading, exercise (yoga), traveling.
You: 35-45, down-to-earth, intelligent,
relatively serious attitude towards life.
applecapricorn@hotmail.com
Chiyoda Line
Exit 6
JOIN US IN INTRODUCING JAPAN TO
THE WORLD. S eeking energetic ,
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
Akasaka
street
4,630
TBS
Exit 7
Until July 31
J A P A N T R A V E L I N T E R N S H I P.
J a p a nTr a v e l . c o m i s s e e k i n g
E/J bilingual interns to join the
largest tourism website in Japan.
Multiple opportunities in content,
sales/marketing and web/design.
Work in an exciting, global
environment in Roppongi.
Transportation and business expenses
provided. No salary, minimum three
months, chance for full-time position.
Please send your resume (E/J) to
info@japantravel.com.
METROPOLIS is seeking a motivated E/J
bilingual admin intern. Transportation
and business expenses provided.
Please send E/J resume to jobs@
metropolisjapan.com.
To lovely Western baby. I liked
relaxing on the green ground under the
London Bridge. I liked sitting on a park
bench by la tour Eiffel. Hoping to meet a
European with blue eyes! tokyomiffy@
gmail.com
14.4 GAY & LESBIAN
Friends and fun. Japanese guy, 27,
170, 65, good-looking, seeking friends
and fun in/around Tokyo. Please reply
w/face photo and stats. Thanks. kcv@
hotmail.co.jp
Seeking lesbian partner for a serious
relationship. I know a lot of Japanese
lesbians hide in their closets, and that is
why I took this route. Please contact me
so we can build something meaningful
together. alicianmoore@hotmail.com
14.5 ESCORTS
ESCORTS have gone online.
To f i n d a l o v e l y l a d y
co m p a nio n , v i s it ht t p: //
classifieds.metropolis.co.jp/
category/personals/escorts.
31
RELATIONS
THE SOUNDS OF LIFE
BY GRACE BUCHELE MINETA
Everyone keeps telling me that Tokyo is remarkably quiet, safe, and
clean, especially for a large city. I agree on two of the three points, but
my friends who think Tokyo is quiet don’t live next to train tracks or a
major road—I’ve lived next to both. Tokyo is like any other large city: it
has nice, quiet areas and loud, messy areas. My new goal in life is
to become independently wealthy enough to live in an apartment
complex without any noise pollution—or at least, with thicker walls.
生活の騒音
友達のみんなは、大都市にしては、東京は驚くほど騒音も少なく、治安も良く、綺麗
な都市だと言います。私も治安の良さと綺麗であるという2点には賛成ですが、線
路の近くや国道のすぐ側に住んだ事がない人が思うほど東京は騒音が少ないと
思いません。東京は他の大都市と同様に治安も良く騒音も少ない地域もあれば、
やかましく汚い地域もあります。私の最近の目標は、騒音とは無縁のマンションに
住めるくらい経済的に豊かになる事です。
（少なくとももう少し厚い壁のマンション
に住みたいです。）
■ Grace Buchele Mineta is an author who blogs and draws comics
about her daily life in Japan at www.HowIBecameTexan.com.
horoscope
BY CATHRYN MOE
♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck
ARIES
TAURUS
GEMINI
May 22-Jun 21 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣
Jun 22-Jul 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
Aries’ nervous system is being completely rewired. The way you used to
think and make choices is now in the
process of upgrading itself. Your ability to act on
instinct is unequalled; knowing and responding
become one. It’s all the constant change that’s
allowed you to develop this expertise. Many
future leaders are being formed right now, and
regardless of where you start from, it may be you.
Mars applies to the Sun in your solar
third house of communications. This is
a time when what you say has impact.
You may want to make a direct hit, or choose to
play a more subtle game watching others’ reactions. Either way, you’re opening up to a whole
new way of doing business. Someone has to
watch the bottom line. You can glide through
money matters Tuesday and Wednesday.
Another masterful week produced
b y m i r a c u l o u s y o u ! M e r c u r y,
Gemini’s ruler, is in your sign, giving
you the go-ahead. You can dance about and
weave webby stories with the best of them.
The Moon’s transit from your romance sector
to your work arena brings something secret
closer to your heart. Will you share it? Maybe
not just yet.
Mars applies to the Sun in your
sign. Happy Bir thday! If you’re
feeling like your energy is about to
soar, you’re correct. Mars arrives just in time
to keep you from being steamrolled. All the
events around you require stamina. Luckily,
you’re naturally strategic and can find a way to
pace yourself—even if you have to introduce a
schedule that inverts others’.
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
SCORPIO
Sep 24-Oct 23 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣
Oct 24-Nov 22 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
The Moon in Scorpio over the
weekend puts you in power. If you’re
already booked and have plans, so
much the better. If you think you’ll have time
on your hands, do the thing you must but
absolutely would rather not. You’ll make great
strides. Monday, you’ll start with a clean slate
and a lighter heart. Saturn has retrograded
back into your sign.
Mar 21-Apr 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
Jul 24-Aug 23 ♥♥♥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♣♣♣
Apr 21-May 21 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣
Aug 24-Sep 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
CANCER
Venus is in the process of cozying up
to Jupiter. In fact, they merge most
beautifully on Wednesday. If you’ve
played your cards right, you’re in the land of
ultra-comfort. If you’re overextended, there’ll
be some bills to pay. Both could be the case.
Nevertheless, Juno is still hanging around, so
you’re likely to be covered.
Don’t get caught up in the doldrums
if the Moon’s transit makes for a
drippy weekend. It may look like a
situation is at an impasse, impossible to get
around. By Monday, you’ll be seeing it in a different light. With Mercury, your ruler, currently
forcing you to stretch, why not try something
you wouldn’t normally do? You may be glad you
took the road less travelled.
Projecting ahead may not produce
the pic ture you’re looking for.
There’s too much opportunity and
potential change to keep things static. Force
yourself into a corner? Never! If things are not
what you had in mind, you need only to wait for
the weekend to finish. By Monday, things will
be looking up. Making a snap decision leads to
something you won’t be happy with—so don’t.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS
Jan 21-Feb 19 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
Feb 20-Mar 20 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣
You have so many things to do. Financial and emotional hurdles await.
Which will you choose? Pallas Athene
is retrograde in Sagittarius. She assists with an
original approach to make up for the pressure
you’re under. Racing the clock has become the
norm, but you can also take time for yourself.
Even if someone else won’t take up the slack,
you’ve earned the chance to reassess.
For a Capricorn, when you’re working, you do it all, and right now that’s
a lot to handle. On the other hand,
if you don’t feel productive, you might think,
“What’s the point?” Part of your raison d’être is
building something that lasts. At the moment,
transformation is everywhere. Choose what
you like, trust your instincts, and hold on or let
go. Either is a personal triumph.
Not ever y thing is going the way
Aquarians might like, but it’s not all
bad either. The stars have taken a
vote and decided to let you get quite a bit of
your wish list. Consider what’s on it. Ceres in
your sign will go to bat on your behalf to give
you a second chance, but she’s not into trivial
requests of her time. Keeping track of every
detail could be head-spinning.
The flow of feelings has never been
so great as it is now. You’re the sign
everyone looks to for a barometer of
expression. Heart and head are happier when
they match, so why not be true to yourself? The
soul grows stronger when you’re authentic. Wait
until all the votes are in. Ceres works behind the
scenes in your sector of karmic connections. A
celebration is on its way!
Nov 23-Dec 22 ♥♥♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣
32
Dec 23-Jan 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣
PISCES
LINGO BOX
Tozan (登山） = Mountain climbing
Shusshōritsu (出生率) = Birthrate
the small print
A survey by the sports ministry has
found that the average 11-year-old boy
in 1980 could to throw a softball 35
meters, but today the figure is just 28.
Kafunshō (花粉症) = Hay fever
Rengō (連合) = Coalition
BY STEVE TRAUTLEIN
I’M SURE THESE WILL HELP MAKE ISHINOMAKI A CITY
FULL OF ATTRACTION AND VITALITY.”
—Miyagi Governor Yoshihiro Murai, on the reopening of two local railway lines
that were destroyed in the March 11 disaster
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…
⊲In
⊲ the first case of its kind, the MPD arrested
a man for selling computer software that lets
people cheat in online games.
⊲Members
⊲
of a finance ministry advisory panel
have proposed levying fees on people who
request ambulances for “minor injuries or
mild conditions.”
⊲South
⊲
Korean fighter jets, patrol planes, and
naval vessels took part in a military drill near
the disputed Takeshima Islets in the Sea of
Japan.
⊲According
⊲
to an industry ministry survey, the
number of Internet of Things devices around
the world was five billion in 2013, but is expected to climb to 25 billion by 2025.
INCREDIBLE SHRINKING
JAPAN
⊲A
⊲ total of 42,000 elementary and junior high
school teachers will lose their jobs because
the declining birthrate has lowered classroom
attendance.
⊲Authorities
⊲
at the education ministry say
9,351 people took law school entrance exams this spring—the lowest number on record.
⊲Included
⊲
among the health ministry’s new
food safety guidelines is a ban on serving raw
pork in restaurants.
Chōsa (調査) = Survey
stats
64 Percentge of Japanese adults who
say they’re “embarrassed” by their
handwriting
16
Consecutive months that McDonald’s
restaurants in Japan have seen falling
sales
¥9.43 BILLION
Exports of bonsai in
2013, a tenfold increase from 2003
YAWN
⊲Officials
⊲
in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, are
seeking to tie up with 11 other cities to form
a coalition of municipalities that host castles
featuring donjon keep towers.
⊲A
⊲ group of 1,063 people filed a lawsuit with
the Tokyo District Court seeking an end to Japan’s involvement in the Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade talks.
⊲The
⊲
plaintiffs argue that, somehow, the “pact
would undermine their basic human rights.”
⊲Headline
⊲
of the Week: “Natto Allergy Caused
by Jellyfish Stings, Says Japanese Study” (via
Japan Today)
counter thanks to an overhaul of the health
ministry’s prescription drug system.
⊲Meanwhile,
⊲
new TMG regulations require
streetside bento vendors to “implement thorough temperature controls.”
⊲Officials
⊲
in Shizuoka, Yamanashi, and Niigata
have published a list showing the difficulty
levels of popular mountain-climbing routes
in their prefectures.
⊲Mount
⊲
Yurigatake in Nagano earned the most
severe rating, which warns that climbers are
“in constant danger of falling or sliding.”
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
MILESTONES
⊲Japanese
⊲
consumers can now buy medication for hay fever and athlete’s foot over the
⊲NHK
⊲
says it collected ¥649.3 billion in viewer fees in fiscal 2014—the highest total ever.
⊲Saihoji
⊲
Temple in Takamatsu held a ceremony
to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the
sinking of the ferry Shiun Maru. The disaster
killed 168 people, most of them schoolchildren on a field trip.
⊲Filmmakers
⊲
in the U.K. are working on a project to document the lives of about 100 Japanese people who emigrated to Britain in the
postwar era.
⊲Bottom
⊲
Story of the Week: “Former Engineer
Runs Japanese Restaurant in Eastern Germany” (via The Japan News)
at a glance
BY RODGER SONOMURA
Small Print Updated Weekly
→ METURL.COM/SMALLPRINT
Compiled from reports by AP, Japan Today, The Japan Times, Jiji, The Tokyo
Reporter, The Mainichi, The Japan News, AFP, Reuters and Kyodo
33
the last word
your article to:
WANT TO HAVE THE LAST WORD? Send
editor@metropolisjapan.com
The Lost
Mosh
The void in the pit
BY LAURIER TIERNAN
Illustration by Christi Rochin
T
he death of meaning, in a way, can
bring some things full circle.
In the grand scheme of things,
moshing doesn’t have much meaning—nor do most dances inspired by pop
culture. Generally devoid of both politics
and spirituality, it doesn’t add up to much
as a social statement. So why can it
seem so upsetting to see a new generation adopt a dance spawned in your
own generation, and make it their own?
Developed in the early 1980s to
accompany U.S. hardcore punk music—just as hardcore punk developed
in California as an answer to the original
punk of the 1970s—moshing emerged
as an evolution of pogoing and slam
dancing. While the creation of pogoing
has been credited to Sid Vicious—the
originator of moshing—bouncing up and
down in an audience to get a peek at a
band is lost in time.
Regardless, it was love at first sight
for me. At a gig by Canadian punk band
S.N.F.U. in 1986, I watched an empty
circle form suddenly amid the crowd as
the band tore into one of its characteristically fast-paced numbers. Seconds later,
two young ladies from opposite sides
of the circle ran toward each other like
atoms in a nuclear reactor. Milliseconds
later, dozens of other dancers engulfed
them, following their lead. The group
gyrated around the center of the circle
in a breakneck combination of goosestepping and childlike skipping. Like a
human vortex without a drain, it fed off
the music, visually representing it—validating it.
By the late ’80s, bands like Nirvana
and the Melvins had ignited the second
wave of American punk, and by the
early ’90s they were joined by more
mainstream bands like Pearl Jam, while
the media covered their ilk with the
wildly-popular umbrella term, “grunge.”
As subcultures gain popularity, so
do they become infected by outsiders
who don’t know the “rules.” While such a
dance might seem devoid of rules, veterans will inform you that, in the tightly- knit
punk scenes of the ’80s, the safety of
your fellow dancer was paramount. If
one person fell, others hurriedly picked
them up. And although some singers
added to the problem by openly asking
audiences to form a “pit,” many more
musicians spoke out against violence,
some condemning moshing altogether.
But as the ’90s progressed and moshing became increasingly mainstream,
the degrees of separation between
audience members grew; it became less
obvious to look out for fellow dancers.
Even bands like Limp Bizkit saw fans die
as a result of mosh pits at their concerts.
LIKE A HUMAN VORTEX
WITHOUT A DRAIN, IT FED OFF
THE MUSIC.”
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.
34
Canadian punk legends Propagandhi
voiced their disgust in a lyric about “Amy
Grant mosh crews.”
As the story unfurled, it surprised
next to no one when moshing broke
out at heavy metal concerts. Metal being punk’s close cousin—or arguably,
its father—hardly anyone in the punk
community begrudged metal fans the
right to mosh.
However, the nail in the proverbial
coffin was smashed down irrevocably for
me the other day, as I watched a mosh pit
appear on the television broadcast of a
J-pop concert.
As BabyMetal—a “metal band”
fronted by three teenage “idols”—took
to the stage, their backing musicians
launched into an aggressive musical
vamp while the central vocalist raised
her arms together in front of her. As
she slowly parted them, like Moses did
the Red Sea, the audience dispersed,
revealing an empty circle in the middle
of the crowd. Then, as my eyes widened
in disbelief, the vocalist squealed some
marching orders, and fans inside the
previously empty circle swarmed like a
human vortex without a drain.
I finally did see a drain, though: a drain
of meaning.
■ Laurier Tiernan is a Canadian musician,
media personality, and hereditary psychic
living in Tokyo.
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Shinagawa Mitsubishi Bldg.
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