FEBRUARY 2016

Japan’s number one English language magazine

ICE CLIMBER Scaling Japan’s Frozen Heights

RUNNING THE CITY The Tokyo Marathon Turns Ten

HIDETOSHI NAKATA A Soccer All-Star on the Sake Trail

ALSO: The Latest Updates from Tokyo’s International Schools, Valentine’s Day Activities, Hitting the Snow inwww.tokyoweekender.com Hakuba Valley, FEBRUARY and More2016 FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 CONTENTS 11

TOKYO MARATHON The city prepares to get Japan’s biggest long- distance event running for the tenth time

14 16 18

HIDETOSHI NAKATA VALENTINE’S DAY IN TOKYO ICE CLIMBING The star footballer brings passion and Don’t feel broken-hearted if you’re at a To scale Japan’s frozen reaches, you need precision to promoting fine sake loss for what to do: we’ve got you covered ingenuity, determination, and a bit of luck

6 The Guide 22 Demons Out! Happiness In! 26 People, Parties, Places An aphrodisiac cocktail, the cutest cafe in The things we can learn from an age-old Bill’s yearly party in benefit for those less town, and hot looks for a cold month Japanese traditional ritual fortunate, and a tour of the party scene 8 Gallery Guide 23 The British School in Tokyo 30 Movies Real life gods of rock and ads from the Combining a love of learning with a sense A crop of Oscar contenders make their very early days of Japanese tourism of adventure and independence way to Tokyo’s cinema screens 20 Hakuba Valley 24 ai International School 32 Agenda Nearly a dozen resorts, slopes for experts Over 30 years of collaboration, creativity, The floral promise of spring, Madonna and newbies alike, and après ski fun and truly child-centered education comes to town, and Chinatown revels

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 THIS MONTH IN THE WEEKENDER

It is certainly encouraging to witness FEBRUARY 2016 the runners who take to the streets for FEBRUARY 2016 the often grim weather of the Tokyo Japan’s number one English language magazine Marathon. And as we see in the case of our story on ice climbing, another way to demonstrate what the poet Wallace ICE Stevens calls “a mind of winter” is to CLIMBER Scaling Japan’s simply take on adversity in one of the Frozen Heights Publisher BC Media Group most aggressive ways possible: scaling cliffs by driving titanium screws into a Executive Producer Asi Rinestine RUNNING surface that leaves precious little margin THE CITY for error. Editor Alec Jordan The Tokyo Marathon Art Director Liam Ramshaw Turns Ten As our cover star Hidetoshi Nakata explains, the best sake comes out in Account Executives Nobu (Nick) Nakazawa HIDETOSHI the coldest months. It’s a detail about NAKATA Japan’s national beverage that the former Media Consultants Mary Rudow A Soccer All-Star on soccer star has learned in his new role: Chris Zajko the Sake Trail promoting sake to the world at large. It’s Marketing Yumi Idomoto clear from our interview with him that he ALSO: The Latest Updates from Tokyo’s International Schools, Valentine’s Day Activities, Hitting the Snow inwww.tokyoweekender.com Hakuba Valley, FEBRUARY and More2016 is putting the same passion and precision Cover Photo by Junichi Takahashi Society Bill Hersey into this endeavor that he did on the field. Finally, lest you get the idea that Lead Writer Matthew Hernon s British School in Tokyo Principal Brian the month is nothing but clenched teeth Editorial Associates Natalie Jacobsen Christian reminds us in and frozen hearts, we haven’t forgotten Vivian Morelli A about the lovers out there. Even though his introduction to our Luca Eandi education section, February can be a Japan does things differently when it Kyle Mullin trying month. The hints of spring lie just comes to gender roles on Valentine’s Day, Film Christopher O’Keeffe a few weeks away, but winter’s cold grip we’ve assembled a collection of romantic is still firmly on us. It makes sense, then, activities that should make any significant IT Manager Nick Adams for this to be a time to celebrate that other happy—or at the very least, make spirit of determination that enables us to sure you’re not left out in the cold. face the frigid days with something that To our neighbors to the West, we’d like approaches a grin now and again. to extend our Chinese New Year greetings, Some of us might find some cheer and we’ll see you all next month. in the call of Setsubun—“Demons EST. Corky Alexander, 1970 out! Happiness in!”—that exhorts participants in that Japanese tradition Published monthly at JPR Sendagaya Building 8F of jettisoning the negative baggage of the 4-23-5 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0051 (03) 6863-3096 / (03) 5413-3050 (fax) past and making room for better things. Editor [email protected]

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広告に関するお問い合わせ先 電話：(03)6863-3096 メール：[email protected] www.tokyoweekender.com WRITERS WANTED Opinions expressed by Weekender contributors Tokyo Weekender is looking for a few good writers. If are not necessarily those of the publisher you’ve got a travel story you want to share, a gift for the written word, or have a unique take on life in Tokyo, we’d like to hear from you. To join our team of freelancers, please send us an email at [email protected]

Published by BC Media Group www.bulbouscell.com

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com Join the Conversation, Join the Club

JOIN TOKYO WEEKENDER’S INSIDERS CLUB TO FIND OUT ABOUT LIMITED OFFERS THROUGHOUT TOKYO, ATTEND EXCLUSIVE EVENTS, GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ABOUT PRODUCTS BEFORE THEY LAUNCH, AND LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD. CHECK OUT WWW.TOKYOWEEKENDER.COM/WEEKENDERINSIDERS FOR MORE DETAILS the guide

TOM FORD CLUTCH BAG Transfer from day to night with this versatile claret shoulder bag that doubles up as a sophisticated clutch when the shoulder strap is removed. We are craving statement ac- cessories to enhance our spring wardrobes and found this luxurious combination of rich berry leather with Tom Ford’s signature stunning gold-tone hardware to be the perfect answer. While being eye-catchingly chic, this bag is also practical with an elegant flap design and a nifty inside pocket to keep your lipstick and keys in place. tomford.com

JIL SANDER SWEATER Crafted from a lightweight blend of silk, cotton and cashmere, this SELF–PORTRAIT DRESS plush sweater provides a stylish Whether it is for a special Valentine’s date or just layer of protection against the a reason to put on your heels and have drinks February frost. As well as being with your friends, this lace and crepe dress sumptuously soft, the darker navy belongs in your closet. Self-Portrait received side panels against the bold mid- much attention from the fashion world for their section of orange create a flatter- intricate lace and lattice designs and we are also ing silhouette. The intricate ribbed besotted with their new collection of flawless design adds another element of cocktail dresses. The delicate embroidered top texture to the sweater, which is draws attention to your décolletage while the just one more detail that will make cinched waist and panel-pleated skirt compliment it your favorite go-to item of knit- your figure. Add a pair of thick black stockings wear. Wear the sleeves pulled up underneath to stay comfortably elegant in the to 3/4 length over a white collared evening air. self-portrait-studio.com shirt to complete the look. jilsander.com

KAWAII MONSTER CAFÉ The concept is simple: capture the heart of Harajuku culture and turn it into an edible wonderland. To some, this Technicolor culinary ex- perience—a dizzying array of spiral art, hypnotically blasting J-pop, and “cute-ified” walking inanimate objects—may be nightmare-in- ducing, but to others, this is the rabbit hole they’ve been waiting for. Cupcake-shaped booths, checkered karaoke stage, and the demon pony-cake merry-go-round centerpiece aside, the menu has been giv- en the most thought. From the rainbow-pastel spaghetti to the bubbly salad, each item has a purpose beyond being visually satisfying, and you won’t want to miss their too-surreal-to-eat desserts, “hospital” cocktails, and tapioca tea served in Mason jars. (kawaiimonster.jp)

Address: Shibuya, Jingumae 4-31-10, YM Square 4F

FEBRUARYJANUARY 2016 2016 www.tokyoweekender.comwww.tokyoweekender.com Something for the weekend...A cocktail guide for the most discerning of drinkers

iven that it’s Valentine’s Day this month I thought that it might be appropriate to Gprepare a little something for the lovers in this edition of the Mixologist Guide. After all, the art of cocktail and the art of seduction go hand in hand like a couple of tipsy lovers. So this month I thought I’d give you a sure-fire way JOHN SMEDLEY SHAWL-COLLAR CARDIGAN to make certain that your Valentine’s evening Change up your sweater rotation with this smooth merino wool and cashmere-blend goes off with a bang. cardigan from British knitwear specialist John Smedley. The deep midnight blue hue The Black Velvet is not only one of the most of the finely knit wool is paired with discreet buttons and finished with softly ribbed powerful aphrodisiacs legally available over the trims. The cozy shawl collar and deep V-neck keeps your neck snug while looking pol- counter, it also tastes a damn sight better than ished—any item that provides style and comfort is always a winning combination for powdered rhino horn or dried tiger penis. The us. It can be worn over a shirt or round neck top and is slim enough to slip under your added bonus is that this cocktail takes literally jacket without making a bulky frame. johnsmedley.com seconds to make, leaving you to get on with more important matters. The cocktail was originally created at the Brooks Club in London in 1861, to mourn the death of Prince Albert. The patrons of the club wished to continue drinking their regular DRAKE’S WOOL, SILK AND tipple, but it was thought pretty poor form to be drinking champagne when the rest of the LINEN-BLEND TIE country was in mourning. Some clever soul Known for eye-catching fabrics, British added a touch of Guinness to his glass to make it haberdasher Drake’s has a legendary black, thus allowing himself to continue drinking reputation for its premium quality pieces. champers, whilst showing the appropriate This dark green wool, silk and linen- amount of respect for the fallen monarch. blend tie is no exception, creating a matte A word of warning with this one. The potency finished traditional wide cut tie with a of this cocktail is so strong that it’s a good idea to limit yourself to just a single glass before dinner. striking texture. If you want to impress More than one and you may well have to cancel during a Valentine’s date or look smart in those expensive dinner reservations—more than your next company meeting, couple this two and you may well be calling in sick to work handsome tie with a crisp white shirt for on Monday. Bottoms up! a dapper appearance. The woven texture should be worn with smooth cufflinks or Method: a plain silver tiepin so the material is not Half fill a champagne glass with Verve Clicquot overshadowed. drakes.com or whichever champagne takes your fancy. Float the Guinness on top of the champagne by poring slowly over the back of a spoon. The difference in densities of the liquids will create ATELIER DE L’ARMÉE a rather attractive banding effect. BACKPACK Ingredients: As the brand name suggests, Atelier de l’Armée – 50ml Guinness (“Army Workshop”) creates functional items from – 100ml Verve Clicquot durable high-quality materials. With water-repel- lent cotton canvas and tan leather, this backpack is ideal for keeping your belongings dry through rugged terrains or just the urban jungle of Tokyo rush hour. Whether you have filled up the main pocket’s 60-liter capacity or just have your daily bare essentials, the bag’s dimensions adapt with the drawstring top. We particularly like the subtle color palette of amber-browns and tomato-red accents, which are a welcome change from the common khaki-toned utility bags we have seen for many seasons. atelierdelarmee.com

www.tokyoweekender.comwww.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY JANUARY 2016 GALLERY GUIDE TOKYO GALLERY GUIDE OUR PICKS FROM THE EXHIBITIONS AROUND TOWN

by Luca Eandi

HARA DOCUMENTS 10: Masaharu Sato—Tokyo Trace

he “Hara Documents” repetitive tracing of prosaic series was launched scenes, the production of hun- in 1992 to promote dreds of frames that comprise emerging artists. The the animation—this seemingly tenth installment extraneous process is one that Tfeatures Masaharu Sato’s newest produces the subtle skewed work, “Tokyo Trace.” In it, Sato reality that makes Sato’s work presents a number of vignettes special. Viewers experience a of present-day Tokyo which he momentary feeling of puzzle- reworks using a technique he ment, sensing something amiss calls “shadowing.” in the apparently ordinary This process that Sato devel- scene. oped is based on the meticulous His 2014 work, titled “Call- tracing of actual video stills. He ing,” created after the strife Bye bye come on, 2010, animation, loop, single-channel video uses a camera to shoot ordinary of living through the Great scenes of people and landscapes East Japan Earthquake and and then augments them with a consecutive bouts of illness digital pen. His goal is to “get as experienced by himself and Hara Museum of Contemporary Art close to the video image as possi- another member of his family Dates: January 23–May 8, 2016 ble by emphasizing nothing and also makes up the exhibition, Open: 11:00 am–5:00 pm, 11:00 am–8:00 pm on Wednesdays, closed leaving no trace of pen behind.” as well as newly-created Mondays (except March 21) and March 22, last admission 30 minutes The immense time and labor, the two-dimensional art. before closing | Web: www.haramuseum.or.jp

VISIT JAPAN: Tourism Promotion in the 1920s and 1930s

t was reported in January campaigns during the 1920s that Japan (nearly) and ‘30s. This era saw improved reached its goal of drawing modes of commercial aviation, 20 million visitors in 2015, encouraging leisure travel to a full five years ahead of Japan. The government had con- theI original 2020 target. Impres- sciously spent the previous two sively, that figure nearly quadru- decades bolstering its railway ples the 5.2 million people that and hotel networks. visited Japan when the current The exhibition features government-sponsored tourism posters, pictorial magazines and campaign kicked off in 2003. A travel brochures from the time. true feat, considering the country Designed by well known names was closed to tourism until the such as Hisui Sugiura, Yumeji late 1880s, so Japan was relatively Takehisa, Hatsusaburo Yoshida unaccustomed to promoting its and Munetsugu Satomi, the attractions to the rest of the world posters involve motifs that in- Left: MACHIDA Ryuyou, Osaka Shosen Kaisha (Yokozuna Tachiyama), c.1917 Hakodate City until the early 20th century. clude kimonos, sumo wrestlers, Central Library Right: Pieter I. Brown, Japan (Night scene at a shrine), 1934 Private collection Now, ahead of the 2020 cherry blossoms and Mount Olympics, The National Museum Fuji—symbols now synonymous The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo of Modern Art, Tokyo, is looking with the land. If you’re looking Dates: January 9–February 28, 2016 | Open: 10:00 am–5:00 pm, 10:00 back at advertisements that were to save some money on this am–8:00 pm on Fridays, last admission 30 minutes before closing used to promote Japan in one of exhibition, admission is free on Web: www.momat.go.jp the country’s earliest promotional February 7.

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com GALLERY GUIDE | WEEKENDER | 9

DU KUN—Revels of the Rock Gods

s seen with the recent passing of David Bowie and Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead, the magnitude of rock musicians can’t be underestimated. As soon as news of their deaths hit the internet, fans gathered to mourn the loss and celebrate the music, while makeshiftA shrines sprung up in their honor. Undoubtedly, fans will make pilgrimages to cemeteries for years to come, revering their favorite musicians’ graves as hallowed mausoleums. This level of devotion can only be described as religious in scope. Chinese artist Du Kun is captivated with music and rock stars. As a musician himself since his art school days, the Beijing and Tianjin-based painter is taken by the creation of music, the side effects of fame, and the ethereal nature of revered musical superheroes. In his series, “Revels of the Rock Gods,” Chinese contemporary musicians take the form of temples, pagodas and other traditional Buddhist and Confucian structures, built into the sides of mountains and cliffs, amidst seas and waterfalls—di- vine structures overlooking sacred lands. Du Kun paints the elements of earth, water, air and fire in mysterious atmospheres that create a mystic, misty air. Catch this exhibition at Mizuma Art Gallery early in the month, as it closes before Valentine’s Day.

Mizuma Art Gallery Dates: January 13–February 13, 2016 Open: 11:00 am–7:00 pm, closed Sundays, Mondays and national holidays Web: www.mizuma-art.co.jp

Nirvana NiouAgyou 2015, Synthetic resins, urethane paint, 35×30×30cm TartarosJapan/ Alternative Idol Saturday 13th February - Sunday 28th February, 2016 Opening Hours: 12:00 - 19:00 | Closed: Mondays Opening Reception: Friday February 12th from 18:00 onwards Talk by the Artist: Hikari Shimoda(Painter) ×TartarosJapan February 20th (Sat), Doors open at 16:00 curtain 17:00 ~ Admission: Free

Temple of Heavenly Sounds, Oil on canvas, 210 x 140 cm, 2015, Image copyright of the artist; courtesy of the artist and Mizuma Art Gallery

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 10 | WEEKENDER | EXPAT LIFE

Kagami Crystal Shop offers a dazzling selection of cut glass for connoisseurs and amateurs alike

Established in Tokyo in 1934, Kagami Crystal is Japan’s first crystal glass factory, and after a visit to their shop in Ginza, you may be inclined to say that it is the country’s finest.

Kagami crystalware has been receiving accolades since the company was founded, and has received commissions from the Imperial Family, the Japanese government, and Japanese embassies and consulates around the world. Kagami Crystal glassware can be found in embassies and consulates in more than 250 countries around the world.

If you’re looking for an artfully cut whisky or wine glass, you can find a wide array of exquisitely crafted pieces that will bring elegance to the table or anywhere else you enjoy your favorite beverages.

The Kagami Crystal Shop also has an impressive selection of “Edo Kiriko” cut glasses, which are available in a variety of shapes, colors, and patterns. You can find decanters, perfume containers, vases and other vessels, which are decorated in a variety of traditional Japanese patterns and designs. Custom engraving, featuring a name, a family emblem, or another design can be performed.

With the holiday seasons rapidly approaching, a fine piece of Japanese craftsmanship just might be the perfect gift. Come see for yourself at Kagami Crystal Shop.

Ginza Store Daiwa Building, 2-1, Ginza 6-Chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061 Tel: 03-3569-0081

Open: From Mon, Fri (11:00~19:30) Sat, Sun and holiday (11:00~18:30) Closed: Thursday WWW.KAGAMI.JP/ENGLISH/

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com by Alec Jordan

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 12 | FEATURE | TOKYO MARATHON

Imperial Palace A favorite spot for runners who jog alongside the moat of this Tokyo landmark throughout the year, it’s a natural location for spectators to get set up to watch the runners in the early stages of the race go by.

A RACE FOR ELITES AND AMATEURS ALIKE Standouts in a strong international field this year include Kenya’s Emmanuel Mutai, Dickson Chum- ba (the course record holder), and Bernard Kipye- go, as well as Feyisa Lilesa (Ethiopia) and Stephen Ginza Kiprotich (Uganda). Two of the best Japanese male runners to look for are Masato Imai and Many participants recall the Arata Fujiwara. On the women’s side is a strong billboards and fancy store fronts Ethiopian contingent, including last year’s winner of glitzy Ginza as something that Birhane Dibaba, Aberu Kebede, and Shure helped keep them upbeat during the Demise, with Kenya’s Edna Kiplagat in the pole final kilometers of the marathon. position. Hiroko Yoshitomi and Yukiko Okuno It’s also one of the areas where the lead the pack of Japan’s elite female runners. The course makes a sharp turn, making Tokyo Marathon is an Olympic qualifying event it a thrilling place to watch the for the Japanese men, so there will be a little extra wheelchair competitors. on the line for some members of the pack. Another group to pay attention to are some of the speedier competitors on the road: the wheel- quintessential demonstration of chair marathoners. The Tokyo Marathon course training, resilience, and determi- is generally flat, so it is an ideal place to break nation, the marathon is an event records—if the weather permits. This year marks that demands an intense pace from the first time that international elites have been eliteA runners over the length of its 42.195km invited to compete in the Tokyo Wheelchair Mar- (26.2 mile) course and from less experienced athon. Domestic athletes like Hiroyuki Yamamoto runners, sometimes just the willingness to put and Kota Hokinoue will have a berth in the 2016 one foot in front of the other. Paralympics at stake and are going up against The Tokyo Marathon was first launched a field that includes international stars such as in 2007, but elite marathons have been held World Champion Joshua George (USA) and Ernst in the world’s largest city since 1979. This im- Tokyo Big Sight van Dyk (South Africa), a multiple Paralympic pressive pedigree quickly made it one of the wheelchair event medalist and 10-time winner There’s nothing like seeing the top runs on the world marathon circuit, and of the Boston Wheelchair Marathon. Meanwhile, runners crossing the finish, whether by its sixth year, it had joined Boston, London, on the women’s side, eight-time Tokyo Marathon they’re coming in at world-class pace Chicago, New York, and Berlin in the Abbott winner Wakako Tsuchida will be up against Tat- or setting their own personal bests. World Marathon Majors, a yearly series of six yana McFadden from the US, who won in Chicago, Expect plenty of crowds, and a warm races that draws the world’s best long-dis- Boston, New York, and London last year. atmosphere—rain or shine. tance competitors.

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com You’ll feel like a good part of the city has come together to help everyone cross the finish line.

RUN BY VOLUNTEERS Read up on participants’ reports from previous Tokyo Marathons and you will find plenty of stories about hitting the wall and making the push for personal bests. However, another common thread in stories about the event is that it is well run, thanks in no small part to a veritable army of 37,000 RUNNERS enthusiastic volunteers. This year, expect about 10,000 of them (includ- ing 700 foreign language speakers) who assist in every aspect of the race, from distributing drinks and snacks along the route to helping keep the course almost spotlessly clean Along with the world-class runners and making sure that competitors’ who are vying for top positions in luggage is waiting for them once the the race itself and the Abbott World run is done. ¥308,750,711 Marathon Majors series, the Tokyo In addition to the volunteers who Marathon has also become an place are helping out in traditional roles in for serious amateurs and recreational the lead up to the competition, there RAISED FOR CHARITY marathoners to hit their stride. Over the are also a wide variety of perfor- years, long-distance running has been mances taking place alongside the on the rise in Japan, and marathons are streets of the Marathon course: run- now held around the country. In order ners will be buoyed along by taiko to support this grassroots long-distance drummers, bands, and choirs, school movement, Tokyo Marathon launched cheerleading groups, and more. 87 81 the RUN as ONE program last year, Combine this with close to 1.5 million which gives promising runners a spectators who line the course, streamlined entry into the Marathon. yelling out a spirited “Ganbare!” to Beginning this year, this program will everyone who runs by, and you’ll feel be expanded to include semi-elite mar- like a good part of the city has come athoners from around the world. And together to help everyone cross the given the popularity of the race—more finish line. than 300,000 apply for 37,000 spots—the Tokyo Marathon draws a huge field of The 2016 Tokyo Marathon takes place amateur marathoners (as well as, from on Sunday, Feb. 28. Start time for what we hear, a few cleverly costumed runners is 9:10 am. runners) every year. www.marathon.tokyo/en 96,462 BANANAS DISTRIBUTED DURING THE RACE

2:05:42 2:22:23

Photos courtesy of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 The Spirit of a Sportsman

by Matthew Hernon

A style icon who was once Asia’s most famous footballer, Hidetoshi Nakata now has his heart set on revolutionizing the sake industry

ike many youngsters who abroad, marketing them has proved grew up in Japan during difficult. That’s where I wanted to help. the 80s, Hidetoshi Nakata Of course I can’t make sake or anything, dreamed of emulating man- but what I could do was act like a bridge ga hero “Captain Tsubasa” between producers and international Lduring his youth. He dedicated his life consumers around the world.” to football and by the age of 21, after During the 2012 Olympics he some stand-out performances at the opened a pop-up bar outside London 1998 World Cup, became the country’s County Hall that featured 26 dif- most sought-after player. Eight years ferent kinds of sake. A year later later, following spells in Italy and Eng- he launched his own brand of the land, he stunned fans by calling time drink simply named “N.” A refined on his career. He had yet to reach 30. beverage produced by the famed “Football was like a hobby,” he tells 14th generation Yamagata brewery Weekender from his immaculately Takagi Shuzo, it requires a lot of time kept office in Roppongi. “I didn’t see and care to create. Boasting a stylish it as a job. I played because I had a bottle designed by Japanese firm Nen- real passion for the sport. Once that do, it’s only sold abroad and is very started to disappear I knew I had to exclusive: fewer than 2,500 bottles look for something else. I didn’t have have been produced in the past three any business plan or anything. I just years. decided to see the world, visiting more “It’s an elegant drink that initially than 100 countries. During my travels tastes quite sweet, but goes down like people would often ask me first about water,” Nakata says. “We hope people football, then Japan. It was the country around the world will like it and then I grew up in, but I couldn’t answer well want to try other types of sake. This because I didn’t truly know enough isn’t about trying to sell big amounts about the place.” or making a huge profit. Our goal is He decided to embark on a journey to try and open up the market. With that would take him to all 47 prefec- wine the quality of the product varies tures of Japan, starting in Okinawa greatly and subsequently you have a before finishing at the northernmost wide range of prices. That isn’t really point in Hokkaido at the back end of the case with sake as most items tend last year. Along the way he met nu- to be cheap, which makes it more merous craftsmen, farmers and sake difficult for new brands to enter into makers, who seemed to make quite an the competition. We want to show impression on him. people you can make premium sake “I began to realize the struggle and be successful. It’s a niche market, these people faced, but also the enor- but people are beginning to realize mous value of what they were provid- there are opportunities out there and ing,” says the 39 year old. “While there consequently you’re seeing more sake is a big demand for Japanese goods makers selling high-end goods.”

Photos by Junichi Takahashi FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com NAKATA | FEATURE | 15

dishes, including French and Italian. This is a point he’s keen to show off at “Craft Sake Week” in Roppongi Hills this month. Despite the name, it’s actually a ten-day event featuring 100 sake companies (10 different ones each day), a number of restaurants, DJs playing a variety of music and a sommelier who will be on hand to answer questions. “The best sake comes out in winter so we felt this is the best time to have an event like this, but isn’t just some drinking festival,” Nakata says. “We want people to get to know the various brands properly and that is why we are only having 10 com- panies each day. Along with their drinks guests can try some amazing dishes from establishments I personally selected where it is usually really difficult to book a table. There’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, my favorite yakitori and oden shops, an amaz- ing French eatery and in my opinion the best place to eat Italian in all of Japan. We want people to come and enjoy the whole experience, from the alcohol to the plates and glasses, many of which we designed According to Nakata one of the biggest other night and has tried hundreds of ourselves.” obstacles producers face is the perception brands over the past few years, but the Constantly searching for ways to that consumers have about sake. It’s seen as problem he says is that none of them are improve and revitalize the sake industry as a drink that must be consumed shortly after well known around the globe. He’s hoping well as looking to introduce Japanese crafts purchase and therefore loses value. Last the smartphone app he helped set up last around the world, Nakata admits he is now month the ex-Roma and Bolton midfielder year will start to change that. Known as busier than he ever was as a footballer. It’s introduced his solution to the problem: sake “Sakenomy,” it recommends specific labels been almost 10 years since his final match cellars. based on a user’s taste and preference. The as a professional when he lay in the center “Without wine cellars the wine industry information given includes alcohol con- circle of Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion after would never have flourished the way it has,” tent, temperature, ingredients and details Japan had crashed out at the 2006 World he tells us. “The longer you can keep some- about the taste. Cup. Since then he has gone on to travel the thing the more it’s worth. People think they “Domestic sales are down, but with globe, take a pilgrimage in his homeland have to throw sake away if it hasn’t been so many Japanese restaurants around and start his own business. Looking back, does the man who won 77 caps for his country have any regrets about quitting the I have some great memories that I will always game at just 29? “None whatsoever,” he answers bullish- keep, but I don’t like to look back. There is so much I ly. “I have some great memories that I will want to do, but for now my main focus is sake. always keep, but I don’t like to look back. I don’t take photographs or collect memo- rabilia. I prefer to face ahead and take on new challenges. There is so much I want to drunk after a month or so, but that’s not the world, overseas interest in sake is do, but for now my main focus is sake.” true. At the right temperature and humidity increasing,” Nakata says. “The problem it can be kept for years, but that can only be is many people abroad don’t know what achieved if you have a cellar. It’s a necessary they’ve ordered because they can’t read item for this industry and that’s why we’re kanji. With Sakenomy they can take a confident it’ll be successful.” picture and it will give you the name of Listening to Nakata speak it’s obvious the drink and other relevant information. how much it all means to him. This is not For example, if you say like a particular some ex-sports player investing some of his brand it will tell you the nearest place you money into a side venture; sake is now his can get it or where they sell it online. I’ve passion. He drinks at least one glass every been told by a number of foreigners that this is exactly the kind of thing they need. It’s available in Japanese, English and now Italian. We’re also working on a French and Chinese version.” Determined to transform an industry he believes has been undervalued, the two-time Asian Footballer of the Year is on a mission to educate people about sake: the best brands, the way to order, the kinds of food it can be paired with. A common misconception, he informs me, is that it only goes well with Japanese cuisine, when in fact it can be enjoyed with all kinds of

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 by Chris Zajko

alentine’s Day in Japan is a big deal. In fact, you may have seen many department stores and supermarkets wheeling out their elaborate chocolate displays as far as a month in advance. Aside from Vthe size of the event in Japan, there is another key difference to Valentine’s Day elsewhere in the world— only women give gifts, often to both male colleagues or friends (giri-choco or “obligation chocolates”), as well as their partners (Honmei-choco). Of course, the ladies have their turn exactly a month later (on March 14) for what is known as “White Day,” when guys are expected to return the favor by presenting gifts to the women in their lives. Regardless of whether you chose to do Valentine’s Day the Japanese way or just use the it as an opportunity to spend some quality time with your special someone, planning ahead is key to impressing. Here are some creative ideas to get the ball rolling:

Musica Presents Valentine Rock, Volume 9 or a slightly sweatier, noisier and more energetic date idea, Valentine Rock is coming to the rescue. FLiquidroom’s annual V-Day party has been run- ning for eight long years and sadly this year—its ninth edition—will be its last. In an effort to showcase some of Tokyo’s buzzworthy local indie acts, Musica maga- zine has curated a night of heartfelt live music espe- cially for the occasion. Straying from its often acoustic approach to programming the event, this year’s head- liner will be celebrated shoegazers The Novembers, with support duties filled by Keishi Tanaka, Homecom- ings, DAN, Yo Irie and the recently added special guest Tatsuya Mitsumura (of Nico Touches the Walls fame). Atsushi Kano will also be spinning tunes throughout the night to keep the dance floor alive.

Where: Liquidroom, Ebisu When: Sunday February 14 | How much: ¥3,500 More info: www.tokyoweekender.com or www.liquidroom.net

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com World Valentine Festival alentine’s Day is celebrated in many different ways around the world. In fact, the customs surround- Sunshine Aquarium Ving this special day can vary greatly depending on your country of residence. This Valentine-themed festi- Heartful Valentine val at Yoyogi Park explores an extensive cross-section of o experience one of the more these different customs through music and dance perfor- quirky Valentine’s season (it runs mances, traditional dishes, markets, workshops and films for two weeks) activities this across the whole weekend—one of the biggest on Tokyo’s T year, head along to the Tokyo Sunshine calendar. Well, for couples at least anyway. An educational Aquarium to see all the cute things they experience, interspersed with plenty of canoodling with have in store for smitten couples. your significant other. Divers will be feeding red, heart- shaped pieces of squid to the famous Where: Yoyogi Park, Shibuya-ku | When: Feb 13-14 spotted eagle rays (daily at 11:30 am, How much: Free | More info: www.tokyoweekender.com 1:30 pm and 4:40 pm), sea lions will be blowing kisses during their perfor- mances (daily at 11 am, 12:30 pm, 2 pm and 3:30 pm) and blocks of ice carved into large heart shapes will be present- ed as gifts to the resident sea otters (dai- ly at 12 pm and 4 pm, as well as 2 pm on weekends). You can even pick up a haul of Val- entine’s Day-themed chocolates, snacks and merchandise while you’re there.

Where: Tokyo Sunshine Aquarium, Ikebukuro | How much: ¥2,000 More info: www.sunshinecity.co.jp

Andaz Tavern Valentine’s Day Romantic Dinner or those really out to impress, you can’t go past Andaz Tavern’s incred- ible views of Tokyo’s skyline by night from the 51st floor. The dazzling Fconstellation of lights is the perfect backdrop for toasting to the future with a complimentary glass of champagne before tucking into a four-course feast, including lobster salad and smoked sea urchin, seared scallops, Parme- san and herb-crusted slow-braised beef cheeks, and strawberries with white chocolate.

Where: Andaz Tavern, Toranomon Hills | When: Feb 14 How much: ¥24,000 for two | More info: www.andaztokyo.com

Tokyo Tower Valentine’s Climb or a date that’s sure to impress, it’s time to get phys- ical. Lace up your sneakers and climb up Tokyo FTower with your crush. It’s the perfect way to burn calories, keep warm, get a spectacular view of the city and capture an unforgettable photo together. It will only take a couple of hours, so for the more romantically in- clined, get there early and make a dinner reservation for your arrival back to terra firma. If you’re planning it as a surprise, just make sure your date doesn’t wear high heels.

Where: Tokyo Tower, Minato-ku When: Feb 14 | How much: ¥460 - ¥820 More info: www.tokyotower.co.jp

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 Finding new ice climbing routes demands patience, nerve, and more than a little luck—and all that is before you even begin

your ascent... by Ed Hannam

ith its early starts, ice climbing El Dorado. Any more strange equipment searches turned up nothing aside and inherent dan- from a hazy photo or two and a gers, ice climbing vague map with little detail. Wwill never be more than a fringe A short trip to the area (let’s call sport. Only a few months a year it Yamagata) brought us into contact conjure up the right conditions for with shy locals who vaguely recalled ice to form, climbing time doesn’t climbers going there years ago, but always line up with available time, it had been silent a long time. The and just when it starts getting good only clear discussion we had was the season starts to end. Changes with the owner of a decaying onsen in the weather can upset entire who reckoned that, as the roads winters with too much snow or not were cleared of snow less frequent- enough of it. Rain and sun combine ly, everything out there—including unpredictably, and it can be years his onsen—was winding down. between the time when reliable ice Along with this uninspiring news he forms in some areas. Add this all told us that the season for ice was up and very few climbers who start only when the direction of the wind out on indoor walls will ever end up sent temperatures way down, and climbing ice because it’s simply too that period had already come and much hassle. gone a few weeks before. After spending years climbing After a long year of keeping in the better known areas around things quiet we returned, timing Japan, a whisper had emerged from things for the window of cold. Pull- some older climbers about a forgot- ing into the verge at the end of the ten place “up north.” Apparently road, our headlights illuminated old decades before the hard men buildings, all closed and shuttered. and women of the time had Beyond, the road was covered with found amazing ice features settled snow. No footprints were and put up a dozen or so visible. There was no reason at all difficult routes. As opinion for anyone to be there, so we pitched had it, this was their undoing—the our tent in the eerie, howling dark- routes were too hard for most ness and got our gear ready for the climbers of the day to repeat, and so morning. it remained the stuff of legend, an Skiers dream of bright blue

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com ICE CLIMBING | FEATURE | 19

mornings and ice climbers do too, but they time in the val- really understand that dull and overcast leys had shown is better, as it has less effect on the ice. us that nothing The following morning granted us that. By was going to be torchlight we ate, drank coffee and emerged easy, so the idea from the tent, heaved on our packs and of just taking a started down into the valley. It was cer- token route was tainly cold as we walked into the wind that off the table. howled from across the mountains, creating We decided the rush of freezing air. It was a bittersweet elegance would trade off that we hoped was worth it. give us the The valleys were narrow and the right options, walls were multi-tiered, meaning little and something sun crossed the faces, and unique rock truly worthy formations made channels for ice to collect of shooting and grow in. To be “good,” ice has to be for—even if we uniformly formed, well bonded to the rock failed. We went beneath, and protected from direct sun that for a line of can break it down. Tight, tiered valleys that thin, intricately catch the snow are ideal for this. chandeliered icicles that wove up the The winding geography of the valley back of a corner in the rock face. Unlike meant we could only see small parts of the many lines, this had ice to ground level of reaching high, swinging with careful walls above us, and through the purple pre- rather than starting with an overhang. force and weighting the tool to make dawn light we began to get a notion of what Your protection from falling are sure it holds. was around us. The walls were covered threaded titanium tubes that have been Over the 50 meters of vertical ice I in jewel-like ice that encrusted the rocks’ screwed into the ice and clipped to ropes. found placements just on the good side of features to form chandeliers and pillars Ideally a screw gets placed every five or acceptable. I climbed silently and intent- that drooled down the cliffs and hung from six meters but in reality it is wherever ly, needing no overt communication with the roofs of caves. We found the ice to be you can get one in. Fat ice lets you drive exceptionally clear, hard and well bonded the guy below who fed out rope exactly to the volcanic rock beneath. The rumors of as needed. When done well, ice climb- the area being left to obscurity due to lack ing has a unique dynamic, more tai chi of capable climbers began to seem true: When done well, ice than brute force; with the right degree in fact, by the look of it, the old crew had of sensitivity it is a beautiful but totally barely gotten started. With the majority climbing has a unique unnatural thing to do. of the walls either non-existent on the old dynamic, more tai chi The line of ice topped out at a large maps or barely recorded, for every ice line ledge that was safe to stand on, and to mentioned we counted another seven or than brute force ... it is a our surprise diverted to form several eight not. beautiful but totally more ice falls up tiers of overhanging Deciding on a route to climb is always rock above. Burned out from what we’d hard and when there are hundreds of choic- unnatural thing to do already done, we left them for another es and you’re working against dwindling day, and named the new line Shimajiro time, things only get harder. Lines were after a popular kids’ toy, and the face it- self White Dragon Wall. As we rappelled everywhere but most looked exceedingly the screws deep, but thin ice demands back to the snow line the afternoon snow tough—the stuff of days to work at. Our total attention. It’s a matter of delicate- began to thicken and clouds rolled down ly picking away, being careful to not the valley. drive into the rock beneath. Over the 50 We spent several days in the various meters of a pitch this is exhausting, nerve valleys trying out new lines: some frazzling and totally absorbing. The irony worked out and others did not. Each day is that the effort of placing these screws we would return exhausted and cold but makes a fall more likely. The fact that high on the idea we were climbing new many ice lines can be easily climbed but ground, a buzz that gets rarer every year. not made safe is fundamentally accepted Since then we have returned every by ice climbers, and is exactly what we winter, silently keeping the dates all year. had going on. In keeping with the attitude of the locals My initial fear quickly became total we haven’t pushed the location into com- concentration as I picked my way up the mon awareness; the roadside verge is still wall of ice crystal, smashing away any- empty, the road still uncleared. The old thing threatening in a constant cascade onsen has never reopened. We prefer it of tinkling ice shards. In the silence of this way: In a world of oversaturation not a frozen valley, ice climbing can sound everywhere needs to be on the map. amazingly violent as every foot and tool placement means smashing into fragile Ed Hannam is a strategy analyst for ice. Ice is inherently frictionless, so your Tokyo-based Tripleshot Consulting, which only connection to it are the points of has a long history of working in metal. This makes those pick choices complex and dangerous environments. very important and involves a process

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 20 | TRAVEL | HAKUBA

Along with the wide variety of ac- commodation, there is a diverse mix of Between the ski and snowboarding courses and an entertainment and dining options on offer after a day in the snow—everything from abundance of accommodations, Hakuba Valley offers plenty Japanese and international restaurants to to do on—and off—the slopes private chefs, but I decided to try out one of the newer restaurants on the scene. ready to hit the slopes. The area Step into Hakuba Brewery and you may played host to the 1998 Winter feel as if you’d just set foot in your local Olympics, and it’s a snow paradise: pub. Friendly staff and owners “the Two there are 11 ski resorts with more Dans” have created an atmosphere that is terrain, vertical rise, and advanced welcoming to locals and visitors alike. The slopes than you can find anywhere warm wooden interior is constructed from in Japan. A common lift ticket can be reclaimed Japanese oak and the roaring used at all resorts and you can travel fireplaces give the Brewery an authentic from resort to resort via shuttle bus. vibe. The Hakuba Pale Ale is one of the Happo-one is one of the most popular region’s finest craft beers: produced on site resorts in Hakuba—and also one of from natural spring water, it is a perfect the country’s largest. It offers more addition to a menu boasting the latest dish- than 1,000 vertical feet and is blessed es from a team of international renowned Skier Julie Nieuwenhuys Photo by Caroline Vanthoff with breathtaking, panoramic views. chefs—you simply can’t go wrong with their Another impressive resort is Cortina, lamb stew. A convenient free shuttle bus inters in Tokyo always leave which offers a ski in ski out hotel that is just service was much appreciated after a warm me hoping to escape to the 10 meters from the lift gate. Meanwhile, evening by the fire. mountains, where I can trade A visit to Hakuba wouldn’t be com- W crowded subways for fresh air, plete with a soak in a local hot spring. The snowy trails, and a rejuvenating onsen dip. All thoughts of recently remodeled Happonoyu onsen at One of the places that was on my to-do list claustrophobic train the base of Happo-one ski resort is perfect was Hakuba Valley, a once-secluded gateway for soothing sore muscles at the end of the to the Japanese Alps that is now a premier commutes were dispelled as day. The unique high alkalinity levels of global ski destination complete with world the thermal waters are renowned for their class terrain, modern accommodation, and I floated down the mountain healing properties. Relaxing in the open- first class dining. through the powder air bath surrounded by the peace of the Ready to get away one afternoon, I took mountains left my body feeling revitalized a short Shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Naga- and relaxed—but in my mind, I was already no, followed by a bus to the heart of Happo Hakuba47 is a sprawling complex that of- preparing my next visit. village, and I was transported from the neon fers a wide range of slopes and a snow park lights of the city and was breathing the crisp for free ride skiers and snowboarders. www.hakubavalley.com mountain air in just about three hours. Families and beginners can enjoy the During my first evening, I strolled snow with convenient rental shops and through the narrow windy streets admir- multilingual ski and snowboarding schools. ing the cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars, Spicy Rentals is a long time resident ski and each featuring a mix of alpine styling and snowboard rental shop with seven stores Japanese sensibility. The Valley has evolved scattered throughout the valley where you since skiing was first introduced to the area can pick up or drop off your skis or board by Austrian mountaineers in the late 1920s, at any of their locations. If you’re looking and while skiers might not have to climb the for a tune up or wax job, be sure to stop by mountains themselves any longer, Happo Rhythm Snow Sports. Their overnight ser- Village still maintains an Old World atmos- vice is a convenient option and the crew phere. had my board ready to hit the mountain Of course, by the next morning I was early the next morning. Inside the Hakuba Brewery

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com EXPAT LIFE | WEEKENDER | 21

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www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 EDUCATION SPECIAL

DEMONS OUT!

HAPPINESSby Brian Christian IN! The age-old holiday of Setsubun isn’t just one for the kids: it’s another opportunity to greet the still new year, full of beans

have never been sure about February. speaking, stopping the clocks until the the old Japanese lunar calendar, sees the Such a cold, contrary month. emergence of better weather in March. spirit realm at its closest to our human Perhaps it is simply because we It was only around 700 BC that the world. It is a time to take care—strange have tired of winter that it seems to workaholic Romans decided that we things might happen. You wouldn’t want Idrag. Despite being the shortest of them couldn’t continue to have a 304-day year a wandering demon to sneak through all it’s not a month that hurries itself. and simply write off the grim bit as if we your door and take up residence for the Spring might be on its way but it remains were in some sort of snug hibernation. year ahead. In the dim, dark, distant past tantalizingly out of reach, just around the Thus Februarius was born: the month of you might have banged a drum or lit a next corner, just over the next hill. At this purification, suggesting that even in days bonfire and burned evil-smelling sardine time of year I can’t help feeling like an of old they were no strangers to the New heads to frighten off unwelcome visitors, impatient child on a long car journey: “Are Year detox. but these days mamemaki (まめまき) or we nearly there yet?” bean-throwing is the preferred method of In Europe our very wise forefathers exorcism. Of course, once any itinerant had an interesting attitude towards the For all our worldly ogres have been sent on their way, it rather dark, cold period that followed modern-day sophistication, makes sense to eat up the beans but you their tenth month, December: they disliked must make sure that you eat just one for it so much that they tried to ignore it I feel sure that we can every year of your age, plus one for the completely, making the depths of winter learn much from the year ahead—especially as they now tend a monthless period and, figuratively to come sugar-coated! folklore handed down to us I like the notion of Setsubun. For all through the ages our worldly modern-day sophistication, I feel sure that we can learn much from the folklore handed down to us through the It may seem odd here in Tokyo— ages; so often there are messages worth where February is one of the driest, listening to in these archaic rituals and sunniest months (and often the customs if only we are prepared to hear coldest)—that the ancient Britons called them. Had a bad year? Not happy with the it Salmonath or month of mud—hardly cards that fate has dealt you and hoping one for the tourist brochures! Another for better luck this time round? Then do equally unappealing old English name something about it! It’s up to you to bang for it was Kalemonath, or month of the that drum and throw those beans because cabbage, perhaps taking us back to that the alternative is to let your demons walk dreaded post-Christmas detox and those all over you. ghastly green “health” drinks that make At the start of this cold, contrary their annual appearance on office desks month, just when all our New Year around the world at this time of the year. resolution is beginning to weaken, maybe The arrival of February in Japan is a bit of bean-throwing is just what we all both ominous and auspicious. Ask any need to get us back on track. child. Setsubun (節分) on the third day of Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi! Bring on the month, the eve of spring according to the Year of the Monkey!

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com EDUCATION SPECIAL A HOME FOR BOLD LEARNERS The British School in Tokyo is dedicated to developing students who combine academic excellence with resilience, independence, and a spirit of adventure

easily surpass our own example, you will need to have at least three-year average scores. three A/B grades to matriculate (earn a It is especially encour- place) but three A grades will merit a full aging that our students year’s academic credit; Boston College continue to win places will offer two courses of credit for A/B on extremely competi- grades, while C grades will earn one tive courses at top-rated semester’s credit, and Princeton clearly universities, including states on its website that A/B grades will Edinburgh, Imperial, earn Advanced Placement credit. It is a King’s and UCL. This year, similar story across the world. for the first time, BST As an international school of more musicians are studying than 900 students aged 3-18 BST is, of at both the Royal College course, much more than an A Level of Music and Trinity, school. All examinations are important, while for the fourth year and many parents are impressed by the he British School in Tokyo running one of our talented A Level artists rigor and structured progression of our has enjoyed an enviable will be studying at St Martin’s. Emphasiz- particular brand of British education. reputation for the provision ing our international outlook, our students That said, students here know that edu- of high quality education have also taken up places at universities in cation is not simply about passing exams. since first opening its doors in Canada, India and the United States and, Sport, music and drama are woven into TShibuya more than 25 years ago, and the closer to home, at Doshisha in Kyoto. Young the fabric of school life, and we see both past year has seen its star continue to rise community service and adventurous even higher, culminating in a richly de- activity as real strengths. From their early served place on the short list for British Students here know years in our Nursery and Reception class- International School of the Year 2015. An es, children are given countless opportu- accredited member of the Council of Brit- that education is not nities to develop the independence and ish International Schools and one of only simply about passing resilience that will enable them to take a small number of schools worldwide the next step in their education—wherev- to have been independently inspected exams. er it might take them, with confidence— according to the UK standards for British and a smile. Schools Overseas, BST has once again been adjudged to be Excellent (the high- people today see themselves as global For more information please visit the est rating) in every area. We regard this citizens and they recognise that A levels official website: www.bst.ac.jp as a very welcome endorsement of the offer an academic passport that can take Address: 1-21-18, Shibuya Shibuya-ku high standards we set for ourselves. them anywhere in the world. There is Tokyo 150-0002 Following the notable achievements certainly increasing interest in the of our previous graduates and their suc- USA and a number of current students cess in winning places at some of the top are looking towards Australia and universities in the UK, the Class of 2015 mainland Europe. were keen to emulate their predecessors. Most universities worldwide are This year’s talented group of A Level stu- very familiar with Britain’s public dents certainly set the bar high for those examination system and are more who will follow them. Remarkably, 51% than happy to accept students with of all entries were awarded A*/A grades A levels or their equivalent. In fact, and a very creditable 76% achieved the specialist nature of these courses grade B or better. These results are a means that students with better long way above the UK national average grades can expect to earn significant (in UK schools just under 26% of entries credit—sometimes up to a whole were awarded the top two grades) and year’s worth of study. At Harvard, for

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 EDUCATION SPECIAL OPENING DOORS IN EARLY EDUCATION For 30 years, ai International has been providing young learners with a warm environment for exploration, education, and collaboration

ounded 30 years ago, ai Inter- ship and we work as a team.“ national School doesn’t chase Classes here are all-day, everyday trends. Instead, they rely on investments, another difference from tried-and-true methods based chain schools offering 30 to 60-min- around the heart of their pro- ute lessons once a week. Moreover, Fgrams since opening. As School Director “all activities are tailor-made to Eri Ogawa says, “Our focus isn’t just on each student. Everyone here gets English language. We don’t want to be the attention they deserve.” Those defined as an ‘eikaiwa,’ because we aren’t. sentiments remain from the earliest It’s the international factor that we put days of the school. In a time when emphasis on.” children with special needs were Eri explains that the school offers kept in the shadows, ai International head starts and opportunities she wishes School opened doors. she had. “The world is a large place, and “Even now, our door is still there is much more to learn out there, open to everyone. No discrimination of than if you stay in one neighborhood. race, creed or abilities.” Eri leans forward, English effortlessly. “Our children are not Students aged 18 months to 6 years knitting her fingers. “I, or the teachers, bound by inhibitions or overprotectiveness explore language, math, science, music, have sat with our parents many times to that limits their potentials. They are free to and art through hands-on and play-based explain autism or other conditions and be who they are,” Eri says. activities prepared using resources and how to better support their kids to further The school defies trends in another materials from around the world. “Our their growth. No challenge is unmet. Noth- fashion: they don’t rely on technology teachers help the students put on a huge ing’s changed since then. We are honoring for its own sake. “We believe in the old show each year,” Eri explains. Children that 30 years of open door policy today.” school, tech-free teaching methods. At are given control of their roles with the such a tender age, the children need guidance from their teachers “so they can a foundation in the basic life skills. In learn to be responsible and be confident Instill responsibility, some ways, technology can interfere with and showcase their own talent.” Parents creativity and our young ones learn best often see marked progress in their chil- inspire them from a through movement, hands-on tasks, and dren’s knowledge and personal achieve- interaction with each other.” ments. young age, and they’ll Lunch wraps up, and children clean Some of the greatest pride that Eri has do the rest. their space. An experienced teacher holds is for her teachers, most of whom have up a book to pull them into the next lesson. been here for over 10 years, and who Eri beams. “We instill in the kids a strong collaborate and design their curricu- The testament to her confidence is the sense of responsibility from a young age. lum through constant communication. classrooms. Large and warmly lit by sun- They learn to clean up after themselves “Because the teachers are well trained light that streams in from a large side-win- and to help each other out. ai is, their and aware of their roles at the school, we dows, the rooms are framed by brightly second home, after all.” resolve any issues that come up together. colored walls. Redecorated and refurbished ai International School is no longer We have a strong and trusting relation- for the school’s 30th anniversary, they the only international school in the Azabu feature warmed wooden flooring area, but it remains steadfast to its original and are full of mats, ABC charts, spirit, maintaining the same, affordable world maps, and walls of books. rates from years before, allowing them to The whole place is designed to put education first. As Eri explains, “this enhance learning. choice is not just for parents for now, it’s The children are eating now; not just a decision for kindergarten: it’s a a little while later they will have decision for life.” their naps and play at the park. Faces from around the world For more information about are full of smiles. Kids spring up ai International School: to introduce their best friends, Web: www.aiinternationalschool.com read aloud pages from their Address: 5-4-1-3F, Mita, Minato-ku, favorite books, and ask ques- Tokyo, 108-0073 tions. They’re chattering away in Email: [email protected] PROGRAMS CURRICULUM

Our Aoba-Japan Extension and External Student Programs offer A-JIS is a school that offers the a learning opportunity for A-JIS, IB Primary Years Programme, Middle neighborhood, and visiting overseas School, and Diploma Programme, students alike. The year to come will be featuring a curriculum that harnesses filled with summer and winter camps, the power of collaborative, and continuing programs in sports inquiry-based pedagogy and an and dance. TEAMWORK educational approach that focuses on global leadership and learning. It’s a part of everything we do here at Aoba-Japan International School— from the collaboration of faculty and staff to achieve our classroom and out-of- classroom goals to the way that our school works alongside our local communities. A-JIS students are always encouraged to develop their individual and collective strengths.

COMMUNITY

Students at A-JIS create communities both on and off campus through a variety of activities that range from educational fairs to study and exploration opportunities and collaborations with partner schools.

HIKARIGAOKA CAMPUS MEGURO CAMPUS 7-5-1 Hikarigaoka, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 179-0072 2-11-5 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0042 Phone: 03-6904-3102 Phone: 03-5428-4488 The late great David Bowie and Bill first met at a Kuwait Embassy party in the early 1970s

Tokyo’s Longest Running Society Page with Bill Hersey

hanks to deadline problems—which many of us have to and all of our Santa’s helpers really thought it was perfect. Hilton’s PR deal with—and the busy holiday schedule, I had to get this Director Momoko Gonohe, her staff and many other Hilton people had issue’s PPP to the Weekender office in early January. The mag- really decorated the venue in a colorful Christmas mood, and there was a azine staff are always super busy, but this year more than ever. bountiful buffet that featured all of the kids’ favorite foods. Other Santa’s TIn addition to getting the regular issues out, they were all in the process helpers who mixed and had fun with the kids as well as the adults there of getting ready and moving the Weekender office into their new digs at that day included Hilton Tokyo’s community-minded GM Mike Williamson, PR/Marketing powerhouse Sunny Side Up’s big and beautiful offices in who took time to mix with and meet many of the volunteers, including the Sendagaya. I don’t know how, but as always they managed to get things Guardian Angels, as well as make a welcome speech. Others included a done and still have prime time to spend with their great Japanese wives face painter, a balloon artist, our regular Dutch Santa Claus Rene Bosman, and beautiful kids during their very hectic years and schedules. talented MC Matthew Ireton, who led the kids in singing Christmas carols, super talent Steve Haynes who was surrounded by new young fans who HILTON-WEEKENDER-BILL HOLIDAY ORPHANS’ PARTY were really in awe over his Rudolph the Reindeer costume. I’d also like to Hate to start out with a back event but with my Weekender and Hilton say thanks to sponsors Sony Pictures, Gaga Tohokushinsha, 20th Century Hotel annual orphans’ party for the holidays in mid-December, printer Fox, Warner Brothers, Disney, Lufthansa and Hertz. deadlines, and all kinds of special events, couldn’t as always get the run- The only problem was one of our staff lost a photo chip, and we’re down and photos to the printer for the January issue. Thanks for your missing several important super volunteers pics. These included Matthew understanding on this. Ireton who always helps so many, Mrs. Hassan, the wife of the Bahrain This was the 18th year for us to do the party for the 50 aged 5 to 12 Ambassador, Mary Aida and super chic Kyoko Fujisawa, wife of the head kids from six different orphanages. The institutions involved went all of Yodobashi Camera: We also want to thank the many Ambassadors’ out to bring really energetic fun boys and girls who all really got into wives and others who were busy that day but did send some great gifts for the party mood for the day. the child they were assigned. Once again good friends—who included a few ambassadors, many diplomats’ wives and generous giving wives of business leaders from OMAN NATIONAL DAY RECEPTION—PALACE HOTEL both the Japanese and foreign communities here—took time out of Thanks to all concerned to celebrate the 45th National Day of Oman Amb. their super-busy schedules to join us at the Hilton for a really fun Khalid Al-Muslahi and his wife Abeer hosted a midday reception in the afternoon with the awesome kids. We’ve held the party for the last 17 Yamabuki Room at the Palace Hotel. The hosting couple are very popular years in the hotel’s white marble lounge. That venue has become so and there was a big turnout for their celebration. Khalid is a very profes- popular with its spectacular sweets buffet it’s completely booked every sional diplomat—a little quiet, but very outgoing and personable. Abeer is day. We did this year’s party in the large and tasteful St. George’s Bar. a live wire who is really full of energy. I was a little concerned but the area has a warm homey atmosphere The special couple has children, including one daughter Iman with

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | SOCIETY | 27

Panama Amb. Ritter Diaz Gomez, his new wife Ayana, Philippines Amb. Manuel Lopez, Amb. Castellon, Kyoko Spector Brunei Amb. Haji Ahmad, his 2nd secretary Jessica

Thai King’s Birthday Reception

Min-on’s Flamenco Show Thai Amb. Phuangketkeon, his wife Varaporn, Nicaraguan Amb. Saul Castellon

Bahrain Amb. Dr. Khalil Hassan, Yemen Amb. Samir Khamis, Min-on President Kobayashi-san, Solange Weya Najwa, her granddaughter Tamara, her daughter Jamilah Flamenco dancers Andoitz Ruybal, Santiago Erranz, (Ivory Coast), Moroccan Amb. Samir Arrour Khamis (Yemen) Yoko Komatsubara, Bill

Segafredo’s Toshiro Brian Mori, Daniele Yoshikoshi, The hosting couple Omani Amb. Khalid Al-Muslahi, his Helge Maruyama, his mother Lilo, Tunisian Amb. Kais National Azabu Supermarket’s Dale Toriumi wife Abeer, former minister of Justice Yoko Kamikawa Darragi

Oman National Day

Shake Shack Grand Opening Afghanistan Amb. Sayed Fatimie, his wife Wahida, Palestine Rep. Waleed Siam

Chef Kihashi, Kaz Kazui, Jiro Ishikawa, Mr. & Mrs. Ryuji Cote d’lvoire Amb. and Mrs. Jerome Kloh Weya Isunoda, guest, Fran Kazui Fran Kazui, Sayaka Masuda

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 28 | SOCIETY | PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES

Hiroko Inayama, Iman’s teacher, Santa, Iman Al-Muslahi

Jamilah Al-Otaibi (Kuwait) Mika Nigitsch

Orphans Christmas Party

Itsumi Santo Kids, Bahrain’s Amb. Dr. and Mrs. Khalil Hassan

Lilo, Mrs. Vahekeni (Angola) Daniele Yoshikoshi

Teresa Dejean (Argentina) Steve Haynes, Fran Kuzui

Paula Bowers (Canada) A few of our beautiful kids that day Mary Katayama (Aston Martin)

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | SOCIETY | 29 special needs and they make sure she gets the special attention she recently opened Shake Shack in Meiji Park had told me they invited needs and is always looked after. The other children are Areej, who 1500 people for the opening party. I went with film gurus Kuz and Fran goes to art school in Scotland and their son, Ryham studies physics in Kuzui. We got there pretty much on time, and from the looks of the long London. In Japan, Abeer not only took care of her family, she helped lines of guests just about everyone who was invited must have come. We many Japanese with handicapped kids, and is really active in so many really appreciated Anthony, who spotted us in the crowd, came over and worthwhile charity projects. Believe me she stays busy, but I’m happy took us to the VIP section. I was amazed at the number of people I knew to see she took time off for herself. One of her major accomplishments but hadn’t seen for a long time. The Sazeby group, which Shake Shack was taking several courses in photography at Temple University, and belongs to, also has the famous Chaya restaurants both here and in her photos at an exhibition at the embassy of Oman really had her Los Angeles. The guests that evening were mostly Japanese, and a very personal touch. international-oriented group who were very successful in whatever they The reception was laid back with a lot of interesting people from did. Our hamburgers and shakes that night were well worth the wait, all walks of life enjoying the bountiful buffet, the company, and the and the rustic décor with many trees, picnic tables and several areas to ambiance. Everyone I’ve talked to who visited Oman loves it. Hope to relax and enjoy has already become a favorite with the trendies—even get there later this year. You may have seen Abeer in Hiroo where she with the cool weather. Anthony is also in the fashion market and owns drives a blue VW Beetle and shops at National Azabu supermarket. the outlet for my favorite shoes: “Campers” on Omotesando. Shake Shack there has already become a favorite hangout and a MIN-ON’S DYNAMIC FLAMENCO SHOW great place to meet interesting people and to be seen. Hope to see you The highlight of showbiz entertainment for me in December was the there. Just heard there are already plans to open another shop in Ebisu. Min-On Concert Association’s Flamenco Show at Nakano Sun Plaza. Nor- mally I’m not all that much into Japanese students doing dances from TO DO other countries but believe me, the Japanese girls in the show were real- Hate to admit it, but I’ve become somewhat of a couch potato recently ly professional and looked good in the colorful flamenco costumes. The and try not to miss any of AXN’s “Outlanders.” The story about England music included familiar songs from the opera “Carmen” to top tangos and Scotland’s troubled history is interesting and the cast truly talented. from Argentina. Min-On had brought in several musicians from Spain If you watch CNN you know they’re doing a lot of new adventure travel and two male dancers, Andoitz Ruibal and Santiago Erranz, who were series, and advertising that really give you a rundown on where to go, really sensational and got the standing ovations they certainly deserved. where to stay, what to do and see in this old world of ours. Min-On President Kobayashi-san, who treats me like one of the family, Most of my friends have seen at least one of Guy Laliberté’s Cirque gave me a wonderful surprise when he had his staff take me backstage du Soleil shows either here in Japan, or perhaps Las Vegas and other to meet the dancers. Japan’s top flamenco dancer Yoko Komatsubara, major cities around the world. My all-time favorite was the one based a long-time friend I hadn’t seen for a long time, had put the dynamic on Michael Jackson’s career I saw at Saitama Stadium. Happy to hear show together. It was a really happy reunion with a hug and a kiss. Yoko Daihatsu is bringing the latest Cirque du Soleil show “Totem” to Tokyo emceed the show and did the choreography, as well as joining the cast soon and will be performing here from February 3 through May 22. For in several numbers. She still looks great and can really dance. It was a ticket info/reservations call 0570-020-520 or visit totem-jp.com/en. great night of fiery flamenco in every way. If you really want something special for a bargain the Tolman col- lection in Shiba Daimon is consolidating framed prints from their three THAI KING BUMBIBOL’S 88TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION galleries—Hong Kong, Atago Jinja and the main gallery in Shiba Daimon AT THE IMPERIAL with all prints at a 40 percent discount for cash sales. The sale goes on My thanks to Thai Amb. Sihasak Phuangketkeow and his wife, Varaporn for the entire month of February. See you there. for the invitation to a very special reception for long-time and much Really happy to see one of my all-time favorite travel destinations, loved H.M. King Bumbibol Adulyadej’s birthday. The sparkling evening the Philippines, is getting some of the attention it deserves. The country took place in the luxurious Peacock Room in the Imperial Hotel. Many of of 7000 islands really has something for everyone, there’s some of the the Thai ladies wore chic colorful Thai national costumes, and the buffet greatest hospitality anywhere, it’s just a four-hour flight from Tokyo, and featured all our favorite Thai foods. For entertainment, there was Thai the inexpensive shopping has to be seen to be believed. Guarantee you’ll music and traditional dances by groups of very talented performers. shop till you drop in the country of smiles—and bargains. Many years ago I had the privilege of meeting his majesty at a If you like Italian food, which everyone I know does, check out the reception at Bangkok’s legendary Oriental Hotel. I still have a CD of new winter menus at any of Segafredo Zanetti Espresso’s shops. The one King Bhumbibol playing the saxophone with a Thai jazz group. Birthday across from H&M in Shibuya has really gotten a stylish makeover. You celebration of the beloved King was festive and elegant, perfect for the can be sure to run into expat friends at the one across the street from occasion, and sure brought back a lot of great memories of my National Azabu in Hiroo. The popular café’s marketing man K. many visits to beautiful Thailand. Hattori just sent me a list of additions to their regular menu. These include spinach and smoked salmon panini, several SHAKE SHACK OPENS IN TOKYO risottos, avocado open sandwiches and vongole bianco Anthony Tsunoda, the Board Director/President of the pasta. Prices are very reasonable.

The good-looking Yuji Tamada family at National Azabu Panamanian Ambassador Ritter Diaz Gomez and his new wife Ayana

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 COMING TO A CINEMA NEAR YOU IN FEBRUARY

FEB 27 THE HATEFUL EIGHT bulging cast of colorful character actors, violence as comic as it A is extreme, and a liberal use of every bit of profanity under the sun can only mean one thing: maverick filmmaker Quentin Tarantino is back with another unique slice of fast-talking film action. For “The Hateful Eight” the filmmaker has assembled a typically eclectic cast. Kurt Russell heads proceedings as gruff bounty hunter John Ruth, who’s bringing fugitive Daisy Domergue (Oscar- nominated Jennifer Jason Leigh) to the town of Red Rock for justice. The pair hook up with infamous bounty hunter and former union soldier Major Marquis Warren (Tarantino regular Samuel L. Jackson) and a man who claims to be the town’s new sheriff (Walter Goggins). The four become eight when the group take refuge from a blizzard in a stagecoach stopover populated by a quartet of sinister ne’er-do-wells (Tim Roth, Bruce Dern, Michael Madsen and Demian Bircher). Tensions rise with the storm and it soon becomes obvious that a Red Rock rendezvous may not be in the cards after all…

FEB 5 WHILE THE WOMEN ARE SLEEPING FEB 12 n eclectic assemblage of international talent comes together A for this darkly comic tale of sex and stalking. Hong Konger Wayne Wang, best known to western audiences for directing J-Lo in toothless rom-com “Maid in Manhattan,” adapts celebrated Spanish novelist Javier Marías’s short story “While the Women Are Sleeping” with Japan’s UNBROKEN own cinema bad boy “Beat” Takeshi in a STEVE JOBS nbroken” made headlines for all the main role. The story follows Kenji, a bored nventor, entrepreneur, Apple co- wrong reasons last year when right- writer on vacation who spies a young founder and cultural icon, Steve Uwing activists demanded for the film beauty with a sinister older man. The IJobs—and the conflicting sides of to be banned and its director, Angelina Jolie, to film marks the first time in over a decade his personality—have warranted two be told she was no longer welcome in Japan. Kitano has appeared in another director’s biographical films in the four years since Thankfully, distributors saw sense when film work. Mozu’s Hidetoshi Nishijima, Sayuri his 2011 death. While the Ashton Kutcher– industry insiders called on them to stand up Oyamada and Shiori Kutsuna join him. starring 2013 effort “Jobs” proved less than for free speech. Why were the far right so successful at the box office, the big guns are out for this second exploration of the worked up? Jolie’s film tells the remarkable Apple genius’s life. Danny Boyle directs true story of former Olympian and WWII Oscar nominee Michel Fassbender in a film pilot Louis Zamperini, who is shot down over FEB 27 that covers all the behind-the-scenes action the Pacific. He and his crew members are at the launch of three of Jobs’s most iconic found, captured, and made prisoners of war. products—the Apple Macintosh, the NeXT Zamperini is sent to a camp in Tokyo were he Computer, and the iMac. Kate Winslet, Seth suffers terribly at the hands of one Japanese Rogan and Jeff Daniels complete the cast corporal in particular, Mutsuhiro Watanabe of this movie based on biographer Walter (star rocker Miyavi). A biographical war Isaacson’s investigation into the life of the drama that charts an incredible life and a digital visionary. redemptive tale of survival.

FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com PREVIEWS | MOVIES | 31 FEB 5 > 10BEST OF OFTHE THE BEST: REST THE This MUST Month’s SEE Releases MOVIES OF 2013

POINT BREAK FEBRUARY 20 Kathryn Bigelow’s cult action hit gets an update as Edgar Ramirez and Luke Bracey take over the roles made famous by Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze. One’s an undercover cop, the other is the leader of a bank-robbing extreme sports gang.

THE MARTIAN SHERLOCK: THE ABOMINABLE BRIDE idley Scott has made some of his finest films in the sci-fi genre. FEBRUARY 19 Heading back to the stars, Scott’s new feature “The Martian” A testament to the popularity of Ris a less horrifying affair than his former sci-fi voyages (think both Benedict Cumberbatch and “Alien”) but it’s no less lacking in drama and intensity. Matt Damon Japan’s love of a good mystery, stars as Mark Watney, an astronaut belonging to a team carrying out this feature-length episode of a manned mission on Mars. After an emergency evacuation the crew the excellent BBC television presumes Watney to be dead and abandons the planet, leaving him series gets a full theatrical release. behind. Stranded on the red planet the astronaut must find a way to survive against impossible odds on an unforgiving landscape using LOVE THE COOPERS what little provisions he has at his disposal. Back home scientists and FEBRUARY 19 crewmates Kate Mara, Michael Pena, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Still feeling Christmassy? and Donald Glover work tirelessly to mount a daring rescue mission. Probably not but this is Japan: Scott returns to his towering best and picked up a Best Picture things don’t have to make nomination for his effort. sense. Discover the true meaning of Christmas in this ensemble comedy with Diane Keaton, John Goodman, Anthony Mackie, Amanda Seyfreid, Ed FEB 11 Helms and more.

MAGGIE FEBRUARY 5 Arnie takes a stab at a serious role as he plays a loving father in a zombie-ravaged near future who will stop at nothing to protect his infected daughter.

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 FEBRUARY 20 Adam Sandler’s computer- CAROL animated family comedy returns as Dracula attempts to ne of this year’s biggest Oscar hopefuls with a total of six make a real vampire out of his nominations, “Carol” arrives on our screens having already fangless son. Fun for the kids, if obtained numerous accolades and featured on many critics’ O not quite on Pixar’s level. “Top Films of 2015” lists. An adaptation of the Patricia Highsmith novel “The Price of Salt,” the film tells the story of a young woman, Therese Belivet, who dreams of a better life while working as a shop COOTIES girl in a Manhattan department store. After a chance encounter FEBRUARY 20 with Carol, an alluring woman who frequents the store, a romance Elijah Wood leads a group blossoms between the two. Set against the backdrop of New York of oddball teachers against City in the less-than-tolerant 1950s, Carol struggles to break free from an elementary school full of the confines of a stifling, loveless marriage while dealing with the zombified kids in this R-rated problems caused as she finally begins to embrace her true feelings. horror-comedy. Cate Blanchett takes the title role and has been honored with a Best Actress nomination for her efforts. Co-star Rooney Mara is similarly honored in the Best Supporting category for her turn as Therese. Classily directed by Todd Haynes, the two leads give magnificent This month’s movie previews were written by Christopher performances in this touching romance. O’Keeffe. For more movie news and reviews visit www.tokyoweekender.com

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 AGENDA FEBRUARY 1

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5 AGENDA: THE WEEKENDER ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN FEBRUARY

1 FEB 13-14 2 FEB 14-15 3 FEB 17 4 UNTIL MAR 6 Madonna’s Rebel World Valentine Festival Chvrches Takashi Murakami: The Heart Tour This romantic Val- These Scottish indie darlings 500 Arhats Expect a giant production, entine-themed festival have been going from Considered one of the most incredible costumes, dancers, amazing takes place across the whole week- strength to strength over the past few active and significant Japanese artists in back up singers and all the hits. end—one of the biggest on Tokyo’s years, becoming one of the biggest the global art scene today, this exhibition Where: Saitama Super Arena calendar. Well, for couples at least touring bands in the world and an will focus on Murakami’s recent works, How much: ¥9,000 - ¥50,000 anyway. international festival mainstay. mainly his epic “The 500 Arhats.” More info: www.tokyoweekender.com Where: Yoyogi Park | How much: Free Where: Akasaka Blitz | How much: ¥6,500 Where: Mori Art Museum | How much: ¥600 - More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com ¥1,600| More info: www.tokyoweekender.com

5 FEB 11 - MAR 6 6 UNTIL FEB 29 7 FEB 29 8 FEB 28 Setagaya Ume Matsuri Toshimaen Skate Rink Bon Iver Tokyo Marathon 2016 Check out the stalls selling Outdoor ice skating fun US indie folk poster boy The annual Tokyo Mara- plum-related knick-knacks, for the whole family. Justin Vernon is bringing thon offers the city’s most food and green tea, as well as koto Just pay the entry fee once and you his band to Japan for the first time ever dedicated runners 42 grueling kilometers instrument performances, haiku can come and go as you please all this month. In what is a long-anticipat- to pit themselves against. Join the throngs classes, tea ceremonies and plant day. Perfect for those wanting to grab ed visit, expect a selection of hits from to cheer on the competitors! markets. some lunch or dinner from nearby across the bands whole discography. Where: Shinjuku to Odaiba’s Tokyo Big Sight Where: Hanegi Park, Umegaoka restaurants. Where: Studio Coast How much: Free to attend (registration for How much: Free Where: Toshimaen How much: ¥7,500 (standing) runners has closed) More info: www.tokyoweekender.com How much: ¥1,600 - ¥2,100 More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY | AGENDA | 33 FEBRUARY

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9 FEB 7-22 10 UNTIL FEB 14 Chinese Spring Yoko Ono: From My Festival Window Two full weeks of fun Avant-garde artist, musi- and events in Yokohama’s Chinatown, cian and activist Yoko Ono returns with the countdown party on the home for a show at the Museum of night of February 7 being a highlight. Contemporary Art. Where: Yokohama China Town Where: Museum of Contemporary Art How much: Free Tokyo | How much: ¥600 - ¥1,100 More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com

11 FEB 7-8 12 FEB 3 Pixar in Concert Setsubun Festival Can’t get enough of This bean throwing soundtracks from festival happens annually your favorite Pixar films? The live and signifies the arrival of spring. To orchestral showcase is back in Tokyo attract health and fortune for the year, for another round of tear-jerking make sure you grab an omamori charm moments and childhood-reminiscing. at one of the stalls wile you’re there. Where: Akasaka Blitz Where: Zojoji Temple How much: ¥6,500 - ¥8,500 How much: Free More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com

www.tokyoweekender.com FEBRUARY 2016 BACK IN THE DAY: FEBRUARY 1974 Check out the scene in Tokyo from 1974! You can read the rest of this issue (No.6 1974) and view Weekender’s 45-year archive online. www.tokyoweekender.com/ weekender-archives/