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Vol.41 No.9 May 21st–June 3rd, 2010 www.weekenderjapan.com Including Japan’s largest online classifieds

Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure Exploring Japan’s Lost Era

Annual Outdoor Issue Fashion Inspired by the Great Outdoors Summer Programs for Kids Adventure Playgrounds in Tokyo Join us for PLAY, MUSIC & ART classes this summer!

Music Our Special Summer Programs Start 6/14!!

Art Play & Learn www.gymboree.jp CONTENTS Volume 41 Number 9

May 21st–June 3rd, 2010

4 Up My Street 14 5-7 Arts & Entertainment

8-9 Tokyo Tables

10-11 Fashion

12-13 Business

14-15 Promotion: Summer Programs for Kids 16-19 Feature: Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure 16 20-21 Weekender Bulletin Board

22-23 Real Estate

24-27 Parties, People & Places

28-29 Families 30-31 Products 30 32-33 Responsible Living

34 Back in the Day

PUBLISHER Ray Pedersen CONTRIBUTORS Kevin Jungnitsch, Deborah Im, Elisabeth EDITOR Kelly Wetherille Lambert, Ian de Stains OBE, Dorothee Jahn, Luke Poliszcuk DESIGNER R. Paul Seymour WEB DEVELOPER Ricardo Costa EST. Corky Alexander and Susan Scully, 1970 MEDIA MANAGER Alex Brooke MEDIA CONSULTANTS Mary Rudow, Pia von Waldau, OFFICE Weekender Magazine, 5th floor, Regency Shinsaka Building, Damiano Cannarile, Maria Arteaga 8-5-8 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 RESEARCHERS Rene Angelo Pascua, Mike Samson Tel. 03-6846-5615 Fax: 03-6846-5616 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Stephen Young Email: [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Owen Schaefer (Arts), Bill Hersey Cover photo by Michael John Grist (Society), Stephen Parker (Products), Danielle Rippingale (Eco), Darrell Nelson (Sustainable Business) Opinions expressed by Weekender contributors are not necessarily www.weekenderjapan.com those of the publisher.

3 WEEKENDER Up My Street

Up My Street visits Look at Tokyo from a distance and you’ll see a concentration of the city’s highest skyscrapers standing tall amongst the metropolis’ sea of concrete and steel. This collection of high rise buildings makes up the business district of Nishi Shinjuku. Despite being known as a center of commerce, the area offers some attractions by Kevin Jungnitsch worthy of a visit. Beneath the towering structures is a countless selection of eateries and shopping outlets ranging from popular burger joints and major department stores to smaller neighborhood hangouts.

Shinjuku Chuo Park Tokyo Metropolitan Chuo-Dori Government Building

2-8-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Tel: 03-5321-1111 www.metro.tokyo.jp/ENGLISH/TMG

For those who feel slightly overwhelmed by These twin towers, home to the city’s This street features a large concentration the sea of skyscrapers and never-ending administration, provide one of the most of eateries that all serve up a quick meal at parade of restaurants and stores, there’s stunning views of the Tokyo skyline—free of decent prices. It’s no wonder, considering Shinjuku Chuo Park, located next to the charge. The existence of two separate decks the competition during weekdays to serve government building. Although the park may ensures little waiting time during peak hours. as many salarymen as possible during not be on par with some of Tokyo’s more Once on top, take in the breathtaking views of lunch hours. Most outlets consist of typical famous, larger areas of respite, the lush Tokyo, which make you realize how enormous yet satisfactory Japanese restaurants or greenery provides fresh air and calm away the city actually is. The decks also provide a common international fast-food outlets. from the hustle and bustle of the business clear view of the Tokyo Sky Tree, the tower One place that stands out in the crowd is district. During the week you’re bound to see under construction that is set to become Paris 4eme, a small bistro that offers great business people taking refuge in the park, Japan’s tallest structure. Be sure to bring your French cuisine without having to break perhaps enjoying a delicious bento as the camera to capture the spectacular sight. Tip: the bank. For fish lovers with a few free weather steadily improves. go early in the morning for a clearer view of minutes, there’s a standing sushi bar for a Mt. Fuji—the cooler air means there will be fast, fresh and cheap bite on the go. The less dust and smog to block your view. lunch menu starts at just ¥580.

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“I like to walk around Tokyo. Exploring s c the city allows me to discover new things.” h 1 3 Word 2. Beatriz, a housewife from Mexico: “I like to walk with my husband in the park on the and around the port of Yokohama.” Street... 3. Dan, a consultant from the US: “I like to go to the park and play a round of Frisbee.” 2

/ For more write-ups on Tokyo neighborhoods, go to 4 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Lifestyle, then Up My Street :// Arts & Entertainment Future Fossils by Owen Schaefer

The first thing you encounter on entering thePost Fossil exhibition at 21_21 Design Sight is a large sheet-metal cube that had been beaten with a sledgehammer into the rough shape of a chair. It’s a powerful image. While it would be uncomfortable—or impossible—to use, it is still clearly a chair, and it has been constructed through a combination of raw modern materials and prehistoric methods...had our prehistoric ancestors ever been inclined to make an armchair. As for design, well, it goes back to basics. It is design on the fly, the method and material choosing the form.

Guest-directed by Dutch trend forecaster Li Edelkoort, Post Fossil, while riffing on the idea of bones and fossils within design and of design, also refers to a future post-fossil-fuel age. Edelkoort’s near-utopian vision of this future seeks to convince audiences of a movement toward the hand-made, the un-manufactured, and toward rough, easily understood materials. There are some challenging and interesting ideas here (with just a touch of silliness), and the show’s real success is in driving the As a result, there is little differentiation between what is simply quaint in viewer to consider the production of the objects we surround ourselves its prehistoric chic, and more conceptual works. There are any number of with, their impact, and to a certain extent, their necessity. stylish furniture pieces involving fur, leather and wood that seem to risk fueling a consumer desire for products that simply aren’t environmentally The show is a big one, involving some 71 artists and designers, and the viable. But Karin Frankenstein’s chair made partially of cow dung stands works included swing between those that serve as reminders of the as a (possibly unwitting) counter-argument—the material used smells origins of material, such as Julia Lohmann’s realistically cow-shaped more or less as one would expect, albeit faintly, and it isn’t likely to turn up leather sofas; works that mimic prehistoric production methods using at Ikea any time soon, despite how easily obtainable it is. Within the context ancient or modern materials, such as Nacho Carbonell’s recycled junk- of Post Fossil there are enough critical works mixed with the stylistic ones mail benches; and works that simply have a kind of prehistoric aesthetic— that these kinds of dialogues occur almost naturally. Atelier Van Lieshout’s enormous sculptural lamp seems a fitting example. One item that sold the show for me was a hideous yellow toaster that Post Fossil steers safely clear of tenuous-looking product placements that looked like it had been through a fire. Thomas Thwaites’s personal project have cluttered past shows, and the entire exhibition benefits from it. The was to build a toaster by hand—from the ground up. He took copper ore, various rooms are divided into loose thematic sections which allow for iron ore and other metals from mines and hillsides and learned how to genuinely refreshing transitions between objects that span the spectrum extract them using a microwave unit. He’d even hoped to make his own of art object to product. plastic, but was advised against it for the sake of safety, and recycled instead. The result is a twisted parody of a toaster, accompanied by a documentary video showing some of the work that Thwaite had to go through just to create something as simple (and as single-purposed) as a toaster. The work speaks on any number of levels about our disconnectedness from the things around us, and the folly of self- sufficiency. And above all, it is a serious lesson in connecting the objects we purchase with their origins.

TOP RIGHT: HITOTZUKI Guus Van Leeuwen “Domestic Animals” Radiator 2008 (Photo: Renee van der Hulst) ABOVE: Marijn van der Poll “Do hit” Chair 1999 (Photo: Droog)

Show: Post Fossil: Excavating 21st Century Creation (to June 27) Gallery: 21_21 Design Sight (Roppongi station) Hours: 11am–8pm (closed Tue) Admission: ¥1,000 Tel: 03-3475-2121 www.2121designsight.jp

WEEKENDER 5 Arts & Entertainment Photo courtesy of the Cotton Club » Tokyo Happenings by Kevin Jungnitsch © Uchu Taishi Star

Fuji Rock Festival Natalie Cole

This annual rock festival boasts the honor of being Japan’s largest Look out jazz lovers, Natalie Cole is coming to Tokyo. The nine-time outdoor music event. Held at the Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata prefec- Grammy award winning singer from Los Angeles packs a lot of soul ture, the event attracts tens of thousands of music lovers every year. into her vocals, recalling a time when music was less about fancy Fuji Rock 2010 features an impressive lineup, with both local and inter- effects and more about pure, raw talent, which Cole gets from her national acts. Among them is Grammy-winning soul and R&B artist father, the famous Nat King Cole. Perfectly suited to the Cotton Club’s Corinne Bailey Rae, UK rock phenomenon Muse, the multi-talented intimate, dinner-theater-style setting, this performance is bound to Jamie Cullum, and electro duo MGMT, to name a few. Be sure to book please both Cole fans and jazz novices alike. To complete the romantic as soon as possible, as tickets sell out quickly. For more information evening, opt for one of the club’s special dinner courses, ranging in and to view the full lineup visit the Fuji Rock 2010 website below. price from ¥9,500 to ¥16,800.

July 30–August 1 Tickets: ¥16,800 (one day) Nearest station: and ¥39,800 (three days) May 27, 7pm and 9:30pm Tickets: ¥14,000–¥16,500 Echigo Yuzawa www.smash-uk.com/frf10 Nearest station: Tokyo www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp Photo courtesy of marcobailey.com Photo by Ken Howard © Blue Man Productions, Inc.

Clash x MoonAge Blue Man Group

This event, taking place at superclub Ageha, is one to mark on the After a brief hiatus, the Blue Men are back, ready to deliver the intense calendar. Electronic music lovers will be pleased to know that Belgian spectacle that has earned the group worldwide acclaim. Late April saw DJ Marco Bailey will be in town as the night’s special guest. Another the reopening of the permanent Blue Man Group theater near Roppongi prominent presence will be the renowned talent Ken Ishii, who is argu- and Azabu Juban. The summer season calendar is packed full with up ably Japan’s most well known techno DJ, both at home and abroad. to two shows a day, giving plenty of opportunities to see this unique per- Both artists are leaders in their game, and continue to keep the techno formance. To get the full experience, be sure to book the poncho seats, genre alive. Like any major event at Ageha, this night is bound to draw located in the first six rows of the theater. Be prepared to have a great huge crowds. time while interacting with the Blue Men themselves.

Various dates and times Tickets: ¥7,500–¥8,500 June 12, 11pm Tickets: ¥3,000–¥3,500 Nearest station: www.blueman.jp Nearest station: Shin Kiba www.ageha.com Roppongi or Azabu Juban

6 WEEKENDER Arts & Entertainment Photo by Joan Marcus

Dreamgirls

This Broadway musical, which became an instant hit and spawned the 2006 Oscar-winning film adaptation, is a favorite among audiences of all ages. The show itself has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Tony Award, for its outstanding script and performances. This production at Shibuya’s Bunkamura features a full international cast, with Adrienne Warren as Lorrell, Syesha Mercado as Deena, and Moya Angela as Effie. For fans of musical theater, classic R&B music, and inspirational stories, Dreamgirls will not disappoint.

Through June 6, Tickets: ¥8,000–¥12,600 various times www.bunkamura.co.jp/orchard/ Nearest station: Shibuya lineup/10_dreamgirls/index.html Photo courtesy of the Ritz Carlton Tokyo

High Tea Dancing

Combining the timeless tradition of high tea and formal ballroom dancing, The Ritz Carlton Tokyo is now the place to dance the afternoon away in style. In collaboration with Koji Hanaoka of Hanaoka Dance Gallery, this event will celebrate live music and sophistication in the glorious setting of The Ritz Carlton’s Lobby Bar, situated 46 floors above the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. What better way to enjoy high tea? With previous events featuring the bossa nova and slow dance, the upcoming High Tea Dance will have a focus on jazz. So get out your glad rags, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for an afternoon of fun and glamour.

30 May, 5:30–8:30pm Tickets: ¥10,000 Nearest station: Roppongi Reservations: 0120-798-688

For Tokyo’s largest English events calendar, go to :// www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Tokyo Happenings / WEEKENDER 7 //

: Photo by Deborah Im Deborah by Photo - - - - - sea carpione aonori oysters and and oysters hamaguri (olive oil and garlic with crushed crushed with garlic and oil (olive 4-1-10 Nishi Azabu Nishi 4-1-10 03-6418-7072 Tel: www.mario-frittoli.com and click on Lifestyle, then Tokyo Tables Tables Tokyo then Lifestyle, on click and —a terrific value offering five courses plus plus courses five offering value terrific —a del giorno del aglio olio e peperoncino e olio aglio For more restaurant and bar reviews, go to to go reviews, bar and restaurant more For Open Mon–Sat for lunch (11:30am– Open Mon–Sat for 2:30pm) and dinner (6pm–12am) / www.weekenderjapan.com two glasses of wine for only ¥7,000. The meal started off with the anti the with off started meal The ¥7,000. only for wine of glasses two pasto of the day, a seared bonito fish with citrus-flavored sauce, sauce, citrus-flavored with fish bonito seared a day, the of pasto mild-flavored the to twist unique a gave orange of slices Juicy style. robust a dish the gave peppercorns pink and olives capers, and bonito, kick. little a and flavor oysters, and icefish with spaghetti pasta: day’s the was course next Our with prepared

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Arossa, Ginza

by Elisabeth Lambert

In Tokyo, where the majority of restaurants and bars merely offer generic red and white wine by the glass or bottle, discovering Arossa put my troubled palate at ease. A small but cozy wine bar that overlooks a glistening Ginza from its eighth story setting, Arossa boasts a phenomenal wine selection, with over 150 different labels on the menu. With a New Zealand flag adorn- ing the entrance and a stuffed-toy kiwi bird taking pride of place on the bar, it is no surprise to learn that all but a select few wines avail- able at Arossa come from New Zealand. MADE BY

I was rapt to immediately spy one of my favorite drops, a Cloudy Bay CATERING sauvignon blanc, sitting on the bar. But after perusing the wine list and noting its price tag of ¥7,800, my dining partner and I stuck to ASSION OODS those wines available by the P F glass. For between ¥840 and ¥1,260 per glass, we could Contact: 090-9838-2022 choose from a sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay, merlot, pinot and cabernet sauvignon, all from a range of vineyards. We were thrilled to finally be in a regular Tokyo restaurant and have some distinction between the reds and whites!

Although the English translation of the menu made the food on order sound boring, in reality this was a far cry from the truth. We ordered an avocado salad (so good we ordered it again), pasta in olive oil, and a vegetable salad to share, as our main focus was the wine. Mains including steaks, fish and chicken are also available. The avocado turned out to be mixed with zucchini and soaked in balsamic vinegar and olive oil—so delicious. The vegetable salad was a colorful mini- feast of roasted veggies and greens. Along with the pasta, the simplic- ity of these dishes complemented our wines perfectly.

All up, our meal and drinks (three glasses each) came to just un- der ¥9,500. Drinking by the bottle is also an option, but could prove expensive, with most bottles going for between ¥3,700 and ¥37,800. Yet Arossa does have the good stuff on hand, including some of the best: a bottle of Penfolds Grange shiraz will set you back ¥73,500. Check, please!

Open daily for lunch (11am–3:30pm) 8F, 2-4-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku and dinner (6pm–11pm) Tel: 03-5524-1146 www.pjgroup.jp/arossa

WEEKENDER 9 F a s h i o n

Photos by Stephen Parker

365 5-12-3 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku Tel: 03-5468-8301

Comme des Garçons Moncler

It was not so long ago that clothing considered suitable for outdoor sports and adventures was limited to clunky hiking boots, khaki pants and safari vests, and those from the fashion world would have looked down their noses at the mere mention of these items. But over recent years, more and more outdoor clothing companies are focusing energy and budget on developing more stylish offerings for their customers, often pairing up with guest designers or other brands to do so. Even more recently, the opposite is also becoming more and more common: fashion brands are starting to create more high- tech and functional clothes that not only look good, but can also withstand the elements.

by Kelly Wetherille Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo has been a leader in the fashion world since she first launched her collection, Comme des Garçons, in Paris in the early 1980s. With her frayed knits, asymmetrical silhouettes and drop- crotch pants, she has been pushing the boundaries of fashion for nearly two decades. In late March Kawakubo opened her latest concept store, Comme des Garçons Moncler 365, located on Kotto-dori in Aoyama. In true Kawakubo style, everything sold in the store is of one color: black. But take a closer look at the clothes on offer and it will soon become apparent that this isn’t just another collection of avant-garde fashions—the fabrics are the high-tech, lightweight weaves for which Italian outdoor brand Moncler has become known. The store’s current selection is made up of an eclectic mix of Moncler and Comme des Garçcons pieces, as well as a few hand-picked items from other brands, including two all-black Rolex watches. But there are also some one-of-a-kind Moncler styles that have been customized by the Comme des Garçons team, such as a nylon jacket with a colorful knit collar and patch pockets (¥105,000). The selection is bound to get even more interesting come July, when a full collaboration

Photo courtesy of www.samplesaleshop.com collection, designed by Kawakubo and manufactured by Moncler, will be launched. The store will be open for exactly one year (365 days), and is set to close on March 24, 2011.

10 WEEKENDER F a s h i o n

Photos by Stephen Parker

The North Face Standard 6-10-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-5464-2831

Photos courtesy of White Mountaineering

2F, 2-7 ,Sarugaku-cho,Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-6416-9110 White Mountaineering

Last month saw the opening of a new concept store by one of the foremost Designer Yosuke Aizawa launched the menswear brand White outdoor clothing brands in the world, The North Face. Located in Mountaineering in 2006 with a unique concept in mind: combining functional Harajuku, The North Face Standard is comprised of four floors, each with outdoor items with high fashion styling. He made his runway debut for the a different theme that will change along with the product offering. Natural 2010 spring season with a collection entitled ‘Dressed to Climb.’ The genius wooden floors and shelving, bare concrete walls, and cardboard boxes of his work can be seen in the versatility of his clothes, which would be form a stark, simple interior that can easily be adapted to accommodate just as at home on the golf course or mountain slopes as they would be on different concepts. While there are plenty of sleeping bags, lanterns and the streets of Tokyo. Waterproof nylon jackets are made chicly modern in water bottles on offer, there is also a section of fashion-forward (yet fully bright colors and subtle patterns, and fabrics of all kinds are dressed up functional) items, dubbed the Standard of Living Package. One such with retro-chic prints designed by Aizawa himself. White Mountaineering’s piece is a Junya Watanabe-designed jacket that marks a collaboration flagship store opened near Daikanyama station last August, with a clean between The North Face and Comme des Garçons Man. The jacket, priced white interior that forms the perfect backdrop for the eye-popping colors at ¥126,000, is half tailored blazer, half rain-proof anorak. Details such as and designs. For fall and winter, expect tweed jackets lined in Gore-Tex with a Gore-Tex lining, drawstring hood, and ventilation holes are evidence of leather elbow patches and colorful knits in fair-isle and other mountain- The North Face’s four decades of experience in making top-class outdoor inspired patterns. Aizawa is also thinking of adding a women’s line, which wear and gear. The upcoming fall and winter season will see even more is sure to be a hit amongst Tokyo’s fashionistas and outdoor lovers alike. collaborations with fashion brands, so be sure to stop in often to check out the ever-changing collection.

WEEKENDER 11 B u s i n e s s

THE VIEW FROM HERE by Ian de Stains OBE

known it only once before, some 20-odd years ago. That was put down to a freak of nature. Now we know better: this is part of an emerging pattern that will see our weather change significantly wherever we are, and not necessarily for the better. Photo by delphaber Photo

Climate change is a fact of life. At a recent party to celebrate the birthday of Queen Elizabeth II (blessed as it happens by a single day of sunshine and fine temperatures between bookends of cold, wet days), we drank a loyal toast in English sparkling wine. Not too many years ago that would have been impossible (at least for those who care about the quality of what they are drinking), but the climate and the earth conditions in and around Kent make it now perfectly acceptable.

I am afraid I still cannot commit myself to British reds, but an associate who has far and away a better knowledge than I of wines and a palate to prove it is convinced that in 10 to 15 years the UK will be producing a more I’ll Drink to That! than serviceable claret. Good news for British vintners, but what will it mean for our neighbors to the south in France, Spain and Italy? Presumably if the UK becomes hotter, so will they, and what then of their own vineyards and future harvests? Ella is singing the Cole Porter songbook. I have a cat in my lap and a glass of that least explored of French reds, Cahors, in hand. It’s a weekend and It is not, of course, wine alone that will benefit or suffer from these changes I’ve finally got a Saturday that makes no demands on me. Outside, the river in our global climate. Agriculture as a whole will see a shift; fruits and veg- is running fast and clear, the banks are populated with white and yellow etables once considered the sole preserve of more exotic climes than the UK flowers whose names I once learned but have now forgotten. The turtles could end up being local produce, and then think of the knock-on effect on the are back, and the carp are spawning; there’s a new family of ducks under import-export business and the impact it could have on local employment. the bridge. The cherries are beginning to bear fruit, their blossom long gone, but the fresh green leaves are a delight, and the azaleas are bursting That dusting of April snow along a Tokyo riverbank is a sure sign that we’re forth. Who cares if it’s colder than it should be? in for significant changes, and we can no longer write them off as freak events; or if we do, we do so at our peril. Well, of course, we all ought to. After attending a number of obligatory sun-blessed hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) parties, I was astonished to Ian de Stains is the executive director of the British Chamber of Commerce in wake up one recent morning to find the banks of the river and the roofs of Japan. View expressed in this column are purely his own and are not necessarily my neighbors’ houses totally white with snow. Snow in April in Tokyo? I’ve endorsed or shared by the BCCJ.

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C-Level Profiles / Entrepreneurs in Japan Photo courtesy of Andrew Green EdwardAndrew SuzukiGreen

of PTS Consulting (www.ptsconsulting.com)

With 15 years of experience serving local and international clients across the country, PTS Consulting is one of Japan’s leading specialist IT consulting and project management companies. Since 2008 Andrew Green has headed up the Tokyo office in his role as managing director of the Asia-Pacific region. He and his team of over 130 staff are well equipped to address all the IT service needs of their many diverse clients.

How long have you been in Japan? we have been providing consistent and quality services in the most One and a half years, but I have been traveling here on business for demanding of environments worldwide for 27 years. This has earned many years. PTS Consulting an enviable reputation as a trusted partner to some of the world’s largest companies. What is your background and how did you arrive at your current position? I’m a chartered surveyor by profession, but have worked corporate real Please briefly describe your business philosophy. estate in the investment banking industry for most of my career. I was a The PTS Consulting Group engagement model, called ‘project and client of PTS Consulting in London for five years at Swiss Re. Once that consulting excellence’ (PACE), is simply our unique way of consult- project was completed I was approached by Kevin Perrett, the group ing. PACE is not a traditional project methodology; it is a flexible CEO of PTS Consulting, and offered my current role of managing direc- and intuitive consulting approach that is entirely compatible with tor (APAC). I was initially based out of Singapore, then relocated to Tokyo such methodologies, but not prescribed by them. PACE is a style and at the end of 2008. a way of interacting with clients that enables every activity during a project to be communicated clearly and linked to the objectives. Can you tell us a bit about your company? PTS consultants apply an intuitive set of practices and techniques to PTS Consulting Group PLC (PTS) provides world class IT infrastructure every engagement to deliver value and innovation to clients, locally, and project management services to some of the world’s biggest names. regionally and globally. Founded in 1983, PTS is renowned for impartial, vendor independent advice, quality processes, thought leadership, and strong project man- agement. The breadth of client engagements globally ensures PTS Many young aspiring Consulting is constantly at the forefront of new technology and is able to transfer experience and expertise between different industries and professionals today are looking locations. PTS has over 330 employees, with 12 offices in 9 countries around the globe. The group covers three geographical regions: the to get to the next level before Americas, EMEA and Asia Pacific. understanding the game.

What are the Japan-specific challenges your business faces? PTS’ clients are both Japanese domestic organizations and global cor- What kind of advice would you give to aspiring professionals? porations. As such, our suite of services needs to be relevant and appro- Get the basics right first. Many young aspiring professionals today are priate for the varied cultural and business differences that apply. Bilin- looking to get to the next level before understanding the game. Take the gual staff is also a very important aspect to success in this area. PTS time to learn your trade well, develop strong professional relationships, believes that our success in both markets is due to the right balance in and bolster your experience before applying these attributes across this area of our business. other disciplines to round out your professional skills.

What sets your company apart from its competitors? What do you do in your spare time? PTS Consulting Group has built a strong reputation for ‘substance over I have a young family which takes up a lot of my free time, but I also style’ with a ‘hands-on’ approach; we are as well known for our techni- like to cycle. In June a friend and I will be completing the coast-to- cal competence as we are for our strategic thinking. Utilizing a global coast bike ride from Niigata to Tokyo across the Japanese Alps to raise account management system, and best of breed resourcing approach, money for charity.

For more executive and entrepreneur profiles, :// go to www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Business / WEEKENDER 13 Weekender Promotion: Summer Programs for Kids Weekender Promotion: Summer Programs for Kids Kspace International School

As the mercury rises and school lets out for To celebrate a whole decade of memorable summer festivities, Kspace In- ternational School has a season full of the very best in warm-weather fun. the summer holidays, parents are once again Classes are available for children aged 14 months right up to eight years faced with the task of filling the hours of their old. Age appropriate programs cover a huge range, including space, su- children’s days with enjoyable, educational and perheroes and princesses, and the circus. Parents of older children will be delighted to know that hot on the menu are specialist workshops, designed enriching activities. But this doesn’t need to be to approach those ‘tricky’ subjects from a totally different angle; ESL, as big a chore as it may seem. From summer advanced math, and advanced phonics have never been so much fun, and schools at Tokyo’s top international schools to private tutorial sessions can also be scheduled. With flexible attendance, outdoor activities in Japan’s greener areas and a choice of hours, weekend programs, and an easy enrollment system, Kspace takes the ‘bother’ out of a ‘hot and bothered’ Tokyo summer. even a family resort in Saipan, summer fun is just around the corner. For more information call 03-3446-3478 or visit www.kspace.to

Camp Adventure™ Evergreen Outdoor Center

Looking for a fun-filled way for your child to make lasting friendships Venture into the heart of the Japan Alps in Hakuba this green season. this summer? Camp Adventure™ Youth Services provides something for Huge white-capped peaks, alpine flowers, clear flowing rivers, and green everyone. The Camp Adventure™ Youth Services program is structured forests are the big draws for those wishing to discover the beautiful natu- for children ages three through twelve. Program activities include swim- ral elements of Hakuba. After arrival, let the adventure begin with the ming, arts and crafts, songs, games, and individual age group activities friendly guides at the Evergreen Outdoor Center, who have been guiding such as weekly field trips for the older children. Camp Adventure™ is in Hakuba for more than a decade. From the wild to the mild, Evergreen’s hosted by Mitsui Gardens International Preschool, located at the Ameri- choice of activities are suitable for single travelers, couples and families. can embassy housing compound in Roppongi from June 21 to August 20. Experience the thrill of sliding off waterfalls in a canyoning tour, ride sce- Sign up is already underway, so be sure to register your child soon. nic cross-country trails on mountain bikes, or soak in the sun and views while you cruise in canoes or kayaks on picturesque Lake Aokiko.

For more information call 03-3224-6796 For more information call 0261-72-5150 or visit www.ewa.tokyo.org or visit www.evergreen-hakuba.com

14 WEEKENDER Weekender Promotion: Summer Programs for Kids

Pacific Islands Club Gymboree

The Pacific Islands Club (PIC) is the ultimate family resort in Saipan. Just a Are you wondering how you are going to keep your child busy this sum- three hour flight from Tokyo, PIC is famous for its spectacular water park mer but not sure whether you can commit to a daily or weekly summer and the friendly international team of Clubmates, the ambassadors of fun. camp? Then Gymboree Play & Music’s flexible Summer Bubble Pass may Aside from the expansive water park, half-kilometer long lazy river, the be just what you are looking for. The age-appropriate play, music and Point Break wave surfing machine, and the 18-meter climbing wall, PIC’s art programs for children three months to five years old help children newest attraction is the Laser Tag game. Teams of five can strategize to practice social skills, develop problem-solving skills, and refine their out-maneuver their opponents on the ‘battlefield’ and score points to win. language and motor skills in a stimulating and fun environment. This The action is non-stop and all the fun, sports, entertainment and activities summer, customers will be able to choose from four-class, eight-class on site are free. In addition to PIC’s award-winning culinary delights at its and twleve-class passes and attend classes and ‘play gyms’ on the days four restaurants, the resort’s 300+ rooms have been recently upgraded and times that best meet their needs. The Gymboree Summer Bubble with flat-screen TVs. Passes will be available from June 14 through September 5.

For more information call 03-3436-0777 or visit www.picresorts.com For more information call 03-5449-2311 (Motoazabu) or 03-3723-0651 (Jiyugaoka) or visit www.gymboree.jp

Saint Maur International School Adventure Rafting

Saint Maur International School, founded in 1872, is the oldest inter- Experience a trip with Japan’s leader in white water rafting since 1995. national school in Japan. The co-educational school offers a quality During the hot and humid summer months, a raft trip with Adventure education within a well-maintained modern facility to students of all na- Rafting in Gifu prefecture is the perfect way to cool down while having a tionalities and religious beliefs, from preschool through high school. The fun-filled experience. Rafters will drift through narrow pine tree-lined summer school at St. Maur accommodates students starting from age canyons on crystal clear water flowing from the Japan Alps. The Nagara two and a half, and features a variety of age-appropriate programs, from River is the only remaining free-flowing river on the island of Honshu, Montessori activities for preschoolers to IGCSE and pre-IB courses for free from dams. Adventure Rafting also has a free lodging facility, so high schoolers. Less academic courses, such as arts and crafts, drama, guests can experience and participate in one of Japan’s three largest time management skills and personal goal setting, and a basketball bonodori dance festivals, Gujo Odori, throughout July and August (bring clinic, are also available. your own blankets or sleeping bag).

For more information call 045-641-5751 or visit www.stmaur.ac.jp For more information call 0575-79-3405 or visit www.adventures.jp

WEEKENDER 15 Feature: Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure

HAIKYO: AB ANDO N ED TR EASURE

by Elisabeth Lambert

The first time I participated inhaikyo was entirely by accident. My husband during a sneaky midnight feed. A deso- late reception area had forms and I were cycling in the shadow of Mt. Fuji when we stumbled across laid out waiting for the arrival of guests that never came. It all seemed an empty and dilapidated hotel on the shoreline of Lake Kawaguchiko. It quite hopeless. struck us as unusual that the remains of this building were completely open to the elements. In other countries we had traveled through, disused Yet strangely, there was a sense of calm about standing in a space that buildings and structures were largely boarded up and made inaccessible. was slowly and surely being reclaimed by nature. In a country that So this particular abandoned hotel, with its easy access and its obvious has prided itself on the rate in which it has moved on and pushed regression back to nature, stuck out like a sore thumb. We were drawn forward since the end of World War II, it was incredible to be in a part of into it like moths to a flame. Japan that seemed to be standing still.

We entered the hotel, although any semblance of an entrance had long Literally translated as ‘ruins,’ haikyo, or urban exploring as it is since fallen apart. In fact, the entire front wall of the hotel no longer also called, is slowly finding its way into the mainstream as an active existed, and what would have been the lobby was now an open-air skel- hobby for those looking to do something with an adventure component. eton of a room. We wandered around the lower levels of the old hotel with With its popularity amongst both for- eigners and Japanese on the a sense of awe and excitement. It was amazing that something like this rise, a new term has even been coined to describe those who haikyo or not only existed, but also could give us an instant, albeit fuzzy, snapshot urban explore on a regular basis: ‘haikyo- ists’ or, for those outside of of a bygone era. Part of the fun also came in trying to figure out why and Japan, ‘urbexers.’ when this place had gone bust. “I’ve always been interested in ruins, ever since seeing movies like Surveying the scene and all of its contents, which included bulky Sanyo Goonies and Indiana Jones as a kid,” says Michael John Grist, who lives television sets, fax machines the size of photocopiers, and magazine in Tokyo and has been going on haikyo expeditions for around three scraps, it appeared as though the hotel had closed its doors during the years now. “I did a few haikyo in Japan by happenstance in my early early 1990s—a consequence of Japan’s ‘bubble’ economy bursting per- years here—places that I had stumbled across and thought I would haps? Although I am sure the fact that it was the only hotel whose view check out. One was an apartment block and one an old air base.” Not of Mt. Fuji was obscured by a large pine plantation didn’t do much for long after, an article on haikyo caught his eye, and now Grist heads out on business either! an expedition once every few weeks.

Further exploration of the first floor showed tea cups set out ready for use For Florian, a Kansai-based haikyoist, studying history kick-started in what we guessed must have previously been the lobby bar, and a kitchen his interest in exploring industrial ruins. Looking to blogs, online maps, area with a fridge hanging wide open, as though it had been left as such magazine articles and books, he completed his first haikyo only six

16 WEEKENDER F e a t u r e : Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure

months ago, but now heads out on such expeditions as often as he can. “It has strengthened my interest in Japanese history,” says Florian. “Haikyo to me is a part of social history, as it allows a glimpse of how people lived or worked in past times.”

Yet up until recently, before the low birth rate and the aging population started wreaking havoc on Japan’s inhab- itants, population and where to put that population was such an issue that in some areas, the gov- ernment began to reclaim land from the sea. So why are abandoned places left relatively untouched in a place where space is so hard to come by? In a coun try that has prided itself on the ra te in which it has moved on and pus hed forward since the end of Wo rld War II, it was incredible to be in a part of Ja pan that seemed to be sta nding still.

Grist supports a notion discussed by Alex Kerr in his 2001 novel Dogs and Demons, which states that it is an “after-effect of the 80s bubble economy, which was built around real estate.”

“The [property] was a toxic asset,” Grist explains, “and doing anything with it all, [whether it was] reworking, selling, or buying, would be to sink fur- ther money into a black hole.” Essentially, the property is worth more as is—meaning on paper—than it would be to get rid of or do anything with it. And as a result, haikyo has not only been enabled, but locations for such expeditions have proliferated the Japanese countryside. This is, of Photos by Florian course, good news for haikyoists.

Grist has explored a range of sites around Tokyo and Japan, including capsule and love hotels, hospitals, museums, the ruins of a kaiten sui- cide boat base, and the Kawaminami POW Shipyard. He has parlayed this hobby into a fantastic website (see sidebar on p18), where he shares his photographs and site descriptions with readers from around the world.

WEEKENDER 17 Feature: Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure

For those interested in haikyo, there is plenty of information in print and online to help get started, including finding locations and how to get there. For example:

Michael John Grist has been undertaking regular haikyo expeditions for over three years and shares his experiences and photographs at www.michaeljohngrist.com.

Florian has been navigating haikyo around Japan for about six months. He talks about his adventures and posts photos of his experiences at http:// abandonedkansai.wordpress.com. Glossary:

Haikyo: While it literally translates into ‘ruins,’ as a verb it means to explore ruins and abandoned places.

Urban Exploration: The exploration of haikyo and other abandoned sites, as well as places people are not supposed to go, whether they are abandoned or not.

Haikyoist/Urbexer: A person who regularly undertakes haikyo or urban exploration. Photos by Michael John Grist

18 WEEKENDER F e a t u r e : Haikyo: Abandoned Treasure

“One of the strangest ruins I found was an underground bunker with two high security vaults inside,” reveals Grist. “The doors were hanging open and I was able to go inside. Hanging on the wall were five curious icons that looked at once mysterious and cultish.” Grist goes on to say that while people theorized on his website as to what the symbols meant, it was only after a fellow haikyoist went there and had his account published in a mag- azine article that the mystery was solved. “We [learned] that it was a vault belonging to a famous Japanese securities company that went under in the bubble. The mystery was very exciting for a time though.” Why are abandoned places left relatively un touched in a pla ce where spac e is so hard to come by?

Florian has also had the chance to venture to a wide range of haikyo sites, with the Katashima Training School perhaps being one of the most intriguing, as it was basically a training ground for suicide terrorist attacks. “Hardly anybody knows that the Japanese military had a thing for self destructing soldiers,” Florian writes on his website, Abandoned Kansai (see sidebar on p18). “They blew up their own people not only in airplanes, but in mini-submarines, speed boats, and as divers with mines on top of a five-meter-long bamboo stick.”

However, as exciting as navigating these kinds of sites can be, a haikyoist must always remember that when it comes down to it, they should not be there. When asked about the legalities of entering these properties, Grist answers that “in some cases it probably is trespassing. I’m no expert [on the law], but I know it is at least frowned upon.”

Florian agrees that it is technically trespassing. “If you take something it is theft, and if you break something, even by accident, it is vandalism. If you break something while entering then it is burglary. It doesn’t matter that the place is abandoned.”

And both Grist and Florian stress that they, as with most haikyoists, are not in it for any buzz, nor do they gain any thrill from being somewhere they shouldn’t. “I am just in it for the ruins,” Grist elaborates. “The [security] protecting some of the places is doing it more for [the owner’s] liability in case somebody like me gets inured inside.”

Other than running into the odd security guard who may ask haikyoists to leave—and the best advice is to respect those directives—both Grist and Florian state that using common sense is the most important thing when undertaking such an expedition. Budding haikyoists should remember to have a good look at the area they want to explore from the outside first, checking for security measures, barbed wire and other people to make sure it is really abandoned, before proceeding with caution.

“The biggest risks are from unsafe floors and railings,”says Grist. He also warns, as strange as it may seem, that concrete can—and does— rot through. It is also important to follow the hai- kyoist/urbexer’s general rule: take only photos, leave only foot- prints.

I think back to that desolate hotel underneath Mt. Fuji. The questions about what went before are endless: Who owned it? What became of them? Do they still think about their place on the lake? Who hol- idayed there? In some ways, haikyo dem- onstrates that one person’s trash really is another’s treasure. It also shows that the life of a building or structure does not end with the fin- ishing of construction, or even occupancy. In fact, some might say that this is when life really begins: through an old door leading to a new world waiting to be discovered. This is pretty rare in a country where virtually no stone has been left unturned.

WEEKENDER 19 Bulletin Board

Now you can get a small taste of the classifieds in our printed publication every issue and access Japan’s largest online classifieds at: WEEKENDER http://classifieds.weekenderjapan.com B u l leti n B oard Simply type in the ID to find the ad you’re looking for.

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Burton 165.FIVE Balance snowboard with tut23/2001MercedesBenzCClass#.Contact good condition. Contact 080-3710-5313 or email delivery. It is 55cm D x 97cm W x 188cm H. 37-inch TV, huge couch, PS3, system kitchen (with Sector Flux bindings. Been used for a couple of [email protected]. [email protected]. ¥80,000. Call 080-3173-6319 or email jctokyo@ oven), separate toilet and bath, etc. Everything is seasons but still has a good edge. hotmail.com. relatively new and fresh. The third room is about 1998 BMW 318i ID: 44705 Bose LS-1811 DVD Home five tatami mats with a built-in closet. Comes fully Magic Carpet Tri-Fin Surfboard ID: 46260 ¥425,000 obo. Sliver 318i BMW four-door sedan Entertainment System ID: 44848 furnished. It is ten-minute walk to Tabata station ¥80,000, by JS Australia. Six feet long, 19 3/4” wide, with black leather seats and only 68,100 kilo- ¥80,000. Purchased in August 2006, but lightly HOUSEHOLD (Yamanote Line), Nishi-Nippori station (Yamanote 2 3/8” thick. New and unused, mint condition, clas- meters. Right hand drive, automatic. Looks and used. Mint condition, not a scratch. Two of the and Chiyoda lines), Shin-Mikawashima station sic design, retro spray job. Shipped to your door, drives great. Non smoking owner. Shaken until small speakers (five in total) have Bose GFS-20 Wine Fridge ID: 46390 (Keisei line, one line to Narita Airport), 19 minutes anywhere In Japan. May 22, 2011. No car dealers need inquire, this is floor stands. All original paperwork and full ¥45,000. 36-bottle Funvino wine fridge in perfect to Shinjuku, 20 minutes to Roppongi, 26 minutes a private sale. instructions in English and Japanese. Collection condition. I can send pics if required. to Shibuya, 10 minutes to Akihabara, 12 minutes Unicycle ID: 44797 from Tamachi Area, can’t ship as you will need to to Ikebukuro. Around the apartment: supermar- ¥3,000. Not used, but stored for a long time. Blue, Toyota Luxel 2001/09 Navigation Edition inspect before purchase, etc. Treadmill ID: 46206 ket open 24/7 that is relatively cheap, Yoshinoya comes with a stand. Adjustable height seat. ID: 44516 ¥339,000 Toyota Luxel 2001/09 Naviga- This treadmill has longer running area (which is (Japanese fast food), Pizzala (Pizza), Hotto Motto Located in Tokyo between Oji and Nishisugamo tion Edition with shaken until September 2011. Brand New Canon EF 24-105mm Lens useful for people who care about extra safety). (Bento), dry cleaner, drug store, gym and other ran- stations (not very far from Ikebukuro—ten-minute Mint condition, new tire and battery, built in naviga- ID: 44548 ¥90,000. Canon EF 24–105mm f/4 L IS ¥25,000 negotiable. dom restaurants within five minutes. Also space bus ride). Email [email protected] or call tion, TV, CD, tape, wood panel on dash board with USM lens. This is the kit lens of Canon 5D package to park your bicycle. Pictures: http://picasaweb. 070-5011-9913 for quicker contact. For photos and special gear lever, 1800 CC, odometer has 84,000 I just bought. It’s brand new and unused. Price is Kitchen Sink and Fixtures ID: 45885 google.co.jp/viktor.dedkov/RoomForRentIn- more details: www.flickr.com/photos/8519161@ km, comes with dual air bags, ABS, AW, PS, oil firm. Serious buyers only please. ¥6,000. Cabinet is separate item. Email forsaleto- TabataTokyo#. If you have any questions or would N02/sets/72157623291541857. consumption 13 km/liter. For pictures see http:// [email protected] or call 070-5011-9913. See more like to come by and take a look at the apartment, luxel.weebly.com/. Reply to this inquiry or call DJ Turntables ID: 44510 here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8519161@N0. please email [email protected]. Antares Road Bike ID: 44763 090-17 79-5554. Two Technics 1200 turntables. SL-1200 MK 3D ¥65.000. 58cm Antares road bike for sale. Bought at [black] + SL-1200 MK 5 [black]. ¥40,000 each or National NR-B172JS Fridge ID: 45810 Room in Shimokitazawa ID: 44579 the end of 2007. Has done 2,500km. ¥70,000 as a set. Cartridges but no needles. Dust ¥15,000, three-year-old fridge. Brand: National Nice, furnished, sunny six-mat room with large Tokyo or Chiba area. ELECTRONICS covers included. Pick up from Nishi Nippori. (Panasonic). Model: NR-B172JS. Color: silver. windows. Second floor corner room in a cozy Size: 165L, L x W x H = 480×584×1293mm. Pick up four-bedroom house in a very quiet area. Just a Bowling Ball Kit ID: 44694 Sony Bravia LCD 32-inch TV ID: 46432 Nikon DLSR D70 ID: 44356 in Musashi-Kosugi (no moving help). two-minute walk to Ikenoue station (Inokashira ¥2,000. Bowling ball and case. Can also hold ¥40,000. Model KLV-32S200A. Excellent condition Semi-professional (prosumer) Nikon D70 DSLR line) or a seven-minute walk to Shimokitazawa your bowling shoes and bowling gloves. Email multi-region TV (110–240V), PAL/NTSC, English camera. Made out of a robust, metal body un- Bread Maker ID: 45122 station (Odakyu line). It is also a 20-minute walk [email protected] or call 070-5011- instructions. Collection from Shibaura, Minato-ku like the current SLRs made with a plastic frame. ¥25,000. Never used bread maker, top of the line! to Yoyogi Uehara. Share utilities, etc. with three 9913. More can be seen at: www.flickr.com/ (near Tamachi station) only! I will not ship this item. Allows full customization of menu and photo Happy to sell for best offer. friendly professionals. Friendly, responsible, photos/8519161@N02/sets.

20 WEEKENDER Bulletin Board

SERVICES Retail and Consumer Products Reporter ID: 35508 NATIVE Dentistry OTR Global, an international investment research SPEAKERS Workbusters Dr. Nakashima from the Nakashima Dental Office firm serving institutional clients, has openings 090-9100-2909 or 080-5444-7868 [email protected] has been serving the international community in for a freelance, part time reporter covering the Tokyo for more that 24 years. Dr. Nakashima spe- retail and consumer products industries in Japan. cializes in microscopic general dentistry. He has Candidates must have relevant industry work Quality furniture, rugs, lamps, experience, a strong network of industry sources Cleaning Service the expertise of cosmetic dentistry root canal antiques, electrical and audio that can be interviewed to gather primary informa- treatment, gum treatment and laser treatment. appliances bought and sold. Nakashima Dental Office provides total dental care tion on trends in the athletic footwear and retail/ Gardening Service to the highest standards currently in practice in restaurants industries. The ideal candidate should Europe and North America. Nearly three-quarters have strong communication skills, be able to work Removal, Delivery and Courier Service of Dr. Nakashima’s patients are foreign residents independently, have strong written, analytical, and from over 40 countries around the world. Private communications skills, and be able to develop or Decorating & Handyman Service insurance welcomed. Please contact: 03-3479- have in place a strong network of industry sources. 2726 or visit www.dentist-nakashima.jp. Candidates should have specific industry and work experience and investigative journalism skills. House, Office & Garage Clearance Reiki in Nishi Azabu The candidate should be able to interview industry Relax in a cozy atmosphere while a trained prac- sources in Japanese and communicate their find- We do all the jobs you don’t have the time or the inclination to do yourself titioner administers this traditional Japanese ings in English. Reporters work from their home Who you gonna call? Workbusters! spiritual practice. Reiki will relieve your tired offices. Fees are competitive. body and heal your inner self, perfect for those with busy lives and high levels of stress. Also Marketing Coordinator ID: 35326 maintains youthfulness in both the body and the How far will your current job take you? Do you want soul. Contact Mieko for more details at catn- to make a career change but feel you lack the skills, [email protected]. experience and opportunity to do so? Established in 2001, Select Asset Management K.K. is a leading Moving financial planning consultancy in Tokyo. We are ex- Do you need help moving or delivering large panding our multi-national team and are currently parcels? Or perhaps chartering and basic do- offering an entry level opportunity for entrepre- mestic chores like shopping, junk disposal and neurially minded, self motivated individuals. We pickups? Transporter Tokyo is at your service, have a reimbursement program for attaining your offering inexpensive, fast and safe assistance internationally accredited IFA qualification and in English, French and Japanese. Fore more provide a complete step-by-step internal training information call 03-5705-1363 or e-mail info@ program for entry level applicants who want to suc- transporter-tokyo.com. ceed in a new career.

Proofreader/Editor ID: 35303 WANTED Temporary English proofreading/editing position available. Monday-Friday, eight hours per day Home Stay ID: 46422 anytime, between 8am and 8pm (some flexibility Home stay opportunity for a small family of three. possible based on schedule of successful appli- We are looking to move to Japan in the Shimizu cant). Position starts at the beginning of June area. We are a Christian family willing to teach and continues through the end of August 2010. English in exchange for use of extra house or rooms Applicants will take an English grammar and until we get established. proofreading test at interview.

Website Designer Needed ID: 46315 Researcher Wanted Reliable – Fast&Efficient – Friendly – Confidential I am in need of a website designer to create my Tough as nails researcher sought by leading but Flexile – with reasonable rates! business site. I have all relevant domain names extremely demanding consulting group. Work will and hosting site ready, all I need is for you to create comprise of developing maps of industry special- my site. I know what I want and I have a clear direc- ists. Must have extremely thick skin with profes- tion in what content I need. I need is your expertise sional mannerisms and unmatched work ethic. in creating the site/hosting. I am based in Tokyo. if Position can be part time to start. Will be salaried you are interested and have the experience, please plus incentive. Location in the heart of Tokyo. Ideal forward me reference of your work and what you candidate is someone who is young and ambitious charge (fee). but feels that there is more to life than working in a dead-end job. Any nationality welcome. Career Ophthalmic Instruments ID: 45535 progression for successful applicant: Professional I want to buy ophthalmic instruments. Lens meter, consultant in dot com type environment making six chart projector and auto clays, etc. Any condition is figure salary. Interested candidates please hand OK. Good price offer and pick up from your place. write letter describing why you believe you are a Please contact ASAP. Call 090-7704-2021 or email person of above average potential and why you [email protected]. will be successful in a competitive and challeng- ing environment. Please also describe your long Female European Singer ID: 44297 term goals. Address applications to Ray Pedersen, I’m a Japanese male pop music composer and 5F, 8-5-8 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052. looking for female vocalists who can sing European languages. If you have any interest, please contact me. Music style may be called synth pop. I also have some good samples.

We at Nakai Immigration Services have been serving the foreign community, JOBS individual as well as corporate clients for over 18 years, and we are here to help you efficiently with all your Immigration related needs. https://jobs.gaijinpot.com/ All postings on our website are free. Internet Marketer (French Native) ID: 35510 Premium postings Options after changing jobs? Freelance? Starting your own business? We are running an international community site and looking for an internet marketer to promote will be printed in Considering a permanent residency status or Unable/too busy to go to it. The work is to promote the website thru blog/ the Weekender even becoming a naturalized citizen of Japan? Immigrations in person? BBS/SNS and partnership with other media. and available The topics are related to Japanese sub-culture What if period of stay has expired Hiring foreign employees such as anime, manga, games, music, and so online. For more or an application has been rejected? or transferring them to Japan? on. Must be bilingual. Must have strong online information contact Contact us to discuss the most suitable solution in research and communication skills. Must be English, German, Spanish or Japanese: a good ideas man who can create ‘buzz’ in the our sales team at: sub-culture world. Work at our office near Tel: 03-6402-7654 Hatsudai station. It is a full time position after 03-5549-2038 or a one-month trial. The salary is from ¥250,000– Email: [email protected] 400,000 monthly. If you are interested, please sales@ 99%+ success rate with over 30,000 applications filed contact with your brief profile. weekenderjapan.com

WEEKENDER 21 Real Estate Tokyo Properties

A Full-Service Rental Agency

Minowa Homes was founded in 1962, providing dormitory-style apartments for university students in Kawasaki city. The company quickly became popular among international students, housing a total of over 600 students from outside of Japan. As the business expanded, Minowa also began managing corporate company houses and traditional apartments.

Currently, Minowa Homes operates numerous apartments in convenient residential areas, with easy access to central Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Shibuya and Shinagawa. The company’s bilingual staff understand the difficulties of living abroad, and are happy to go the extra mile to make renters’ experiences pleasant and worry-free. From moving help to introducing English- and French-speaking doctors, and even travel and cultural tips, Minowa Homes’ team prides itself on excellent service.

/ For Tokyo’s largest English property search engine, go to 22 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Real Estate. :// Real Estate

For more information on the featured properties contact Minowa Homes: Tel: 044-933-7000 [email protected]

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WEEKENDER 23 Parties, People & Places

THE ART OF DINING

Westin Hotel GM Andreas Trauttmansdorff, Kopano Motsawagae of Botswana HIH Princess Hitachi and Sultana Lina Chikada, and Colombian HIH Princess Hitachi Hakimi of Afghanistan Ambassador Patricia Cardenas

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL OPENING

Societe Generale CEO Alain Simon Mary Katayama, Daniele Yoshikoshi, Daniele Yoshikoshi, model and actress and actress Jane Birkin French Ambassador Philippe Faure, Cecile de France, and Alicia Lorvo and soccer coach Philippe Troussier

Bill Hersey and Cecile de France Societe Generale’s Christophe Bilard, Daniele Yoshikoshi, Yvette Simon, Yves Lauren Cammas, and Yvette Simon Alemany, and Bernard and Tamiko Cendron

NATIONAL AZABU 48th ANNIVERSARY EVENT

Charles McJilton and Claire Dimond Konishiki, Sylvia Latimer, and her son Garrick Ross and Katrina Maclachlan

24 WEEKENDER Parties, People & Places

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I’d like to start out this issue’s column by thanking a few really nice people. First, a special thanks to Natalai Belaya, wife of the Russian ambassador, for the truly thoughtful letter she recently sent me. It was so nice of her to take time out of her busy schedule to say thank you for the copy of the Weekender with coverage on the Ikebana International annual charity event she chaired late last year. It was also interesting to hear about charity projects she’s been involved with and her interest in helping the less fortunate. It’s always uplifting to hear about things like this. The letter came in a big brown envelope that also contained a big, delicious Russian chocolate bar. My apologies to another nice Russian I met at the event; I somehow misspelled the name of Vyacheslav N. Alikin of Aeroflot Airlines. His company donated roundtrip tickets to Moscow as raffle prizes.

I also want to thank Yasmine Tsamados, wife of the Greek ambassador, for the ticket to the 11th annual World Gardening Fair at the Hotel Okura and for tickets to several films during EU Film Days 2010.

Former Tokyo residents Ron and Maria Andersen, who live in New York City now, were in town for just over a week. Having them back made it even more apparent just how much they’re missed. Maria was president of the International Ladies Benevolent Society (ILBS) for a year while they lived here, and they always come back for the ILBS’s annual cherry blossom ball at the Okura. They also spent several days in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Seoul. Their schedule was filled to capacity with breakfasts, lunches, dinners and coffee breaks. Everyone who knows them wanted to spend time with them. In addition to getting together with Maria a couple of times, I had lunch with the couple and mutual friends Bill and Charo Ireton at the Grand Hyatt’s Oak Door. Both Ron and Maria had nothing but raves for this year’s ball. It seems everyone was right in thinking the chairperson Christine Faure, wife of the French ambassador, would make it all very special.

THE ART OF DINING

The 20 participants of this year’s Refugees International Japan fundraiser, called The Art of Dining, put a lot of time, effort, originality and creativity into their beautiful table settings. HIH Princess Hitachi came early to cut the ribbon, and then took time to visit each one of the settings and talk with each of the participants. I especially enjoyed the exhibit of Botswanan Ambassador Motswagae’s wife Kopano. It was also nice seeing friends Kyoko Spector and Mayari Ishibashi, who worked together on their setting. Mayari married into the Ishibashi family, whose holdings include the AXIS Building in Roppongi. Her home is also very beautiful. It was packed with people from the time the exhibition opened in the morning until late that evening, with proceeds going to helping refugees all over the world.

WEEKENDER 25 Parties, People & Places

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Hideko Crane and Ikuko Kadoya Alana Kelly Fitzgerald

Irish Ambassador Brendan Margaret Scannell and Mary O’Keefe Street musicians entertain before the parade Scannell and visiting Irish Minister of Education Batt O’Keeffe

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY

Author Eamonn Fingleton, Irish Tenor John Nuzzo and Irish Attorney William Fitzgerald, Hiroko press officer Aisling Braiden, Temple singer Kieron Cashell Moynahan, Irish Ambassador Brendan Scannell, and Jim Moynahan University’s Bruce Stronach, and Waseda University’s Paul Snowden

Irish Minister of Education Batt O’Keeffe and Dja Dja Carriedo of Spain, Margaret Pieroth Japan’s J.K. Whelehan, composer Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Ichiro Fukue Scannell, Sylvia Bremner, and Helen Hatt Paul Hayes, and tenor John Nuzzo

26 WEEKENDER Parties, People & Places

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL OPENING ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVITIES

I lucked out for the second year in a row when I had the privilege of Tokyo went all out for St. Patrick’s Day this year with about a week of escorting Koichi Yoshikoshi’s wife Daniele to the opening film and Irish-themed celebrations. Irish Ambassador Brendan Scannell and his reception of the French film festival. My French is really limited, so wife Margaret had two St. Patrick’s Day receptions at their residence. Daniele spent much of her time at the film translating for me. It reminded The first one on March 12 was also in honor of visiting Irish Minister of me of when an Egyptian friend did the same for me in a theater in Cairo. Education Batt O’Keeffe and his wife Mary. The second was on March 17. It was one of the noisiest theaters I’d ever been in, but that didn’t stop The Scannells are a popular couple, and both parties were crowded with people from telling us to be quiet. interesting people. The Irish buffets of ham, cheese, oat cakes, beef stew with Guiness, fish cakes and more were excellent. I enjoyed talking with From the movie theater at Roppongi Hills we walked over to the Grand Irish singer Kieron Cashell, as well as tenor John Nuzzo. Kieron worked Hyatt, where the reception was held at the French Kitchen. Once we for several years at the Weekender, and I have known John since his greeted the host and hostess Alain and Mme. Simon we joined the crowd schooldays at St. Mary’s. already inside. As always during functions in the French Kitchen, the hotel’s executive chef Josef Budde and his staff went all out to make sure The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade on Omotesando was held on Sunday, the food, wines and service were excellent. During the evening the film March 14 this year, and it was bigger and better than ever. There was lots of stars visiting from France went on stage, where they were introduced by good parade music from an American military band, the Nihon University Alain and French Ambassador Philippe Faure. What a fun and interesting marching band, bagpipes players, flautists, and more. Almost all the Irish group of people. Later I really enjoyed meeting and talking with Jane pubs had big banners, and huge Guiness balloons floated high over the Birkin and Cecile de France. Cecile, a direct descendant of French crowd. Drum majorettes, dance groups, and a few solo musicians also royalty, is fun and outgoing. She also has a long line of film credits and performed. From the looks of things, both the parade participants and is a well known fashion model. Jane, who has lived in France for many the spectators had a really good time. Minister O’Keefe and Ambassador years, is very nice. I also enjoyed meeting French soccer coach Philippe Scannell, who lead the parade, also said that they enjoyed the festivities. I Troussier, who is a legend in the soccer world and has earned endless heard that the lucky people who attended the Emerald Ball at the Westin honors for coaching teams around the world, including in Japan. It was Hotel on March 13 all had a great time as well. an awesome evening in every way. My thanks to Koichi, Daniele, Alain and the ambassador for letting me be a part of it.

Abby Radmilovich, Kimberly Vickrey, Malin Spaatt and Eva Lundgreen Alef Saraie, Stewart Koster, Tina Christy Kirkwood, Tania Piochio, and Mitakainen, and Rahel Koster Kimberly’s mom Mary Greenwait

I n & A round

Palestinian Ambassador Walleed Actor Dante Carver, entertainer Hamid Zeynalov, Adnan Huseyn, Umar Ali, Siam, his wife Maali, and their Beni, and Fox TV’s Dan Smith at the and Janis Vaivars at Adnan’s birthday party daughter Hanin at the Arab Bazaar Universal Channel launch party

WEEKENDER 27 F a m i l i e s

by Dorothee Jahn Adventures Living in one of the world’s largest and most densely populated metropolitan areas, where parks and playgrounds are often sterile, boring or unsafe, many parents may be surprised to learn of local parks that are quite the opposite. At adventure parks, children are Abound free to run around and explore, climb trees, play with water, dig in the mud, and create their own world with nothing but wood, stones, soil and the power of imagination.

Thirty years ago the first adventure or junk playgrounds, here also known as ‘play parks’ or bouken asobiba, were founded in Japan, and they now form an integral part in the lives of many city children. There are over 200 of these playgrounds nationwide, about half of which are located in the Kanto plain.

The concept of the adventure playground itself originated in the field of landscape planning. Renowned Danish landscape architect C. Th. Sorensen opened the first playground of its kind, a skrammellegplad- sen (junk playground) near Copenhagen in 1943 as part of a housing project for disadvantaged families. Sorensen’s aim was “to create a place where children themselves are the creators.” The idea soon became hugely popular, and is still very much in use today. Another well known landscape artist and an advocator of children, Lady Allen of Hurtwood, who visited Sorensen’s park in 1946, is credited with bringing the idea to Britain. From the late 1960s—fueled by a liberal atmosphere and changing attitudes towards child rearing—adven- ture playgrounds rapidly spread throughout Europe, becoming espe- cially popular in Switzerland and Germany.

Contrary to what parents may expect, less accidents happen on these makeshift playgrounds than on traditional ones.

In Japan, first interest in the topic sparked in the second half of the 1970s, after Lady Allen’s book on adventure playgrounds, Planning for Play, published in 1968, was translated into Japanese. The first permanent adventure playground in Japan—which still exists today— was set up in the year 1979, inside Hanegi Park in Setagaya ward, Tokyo. From the 1990s, almost 20 years later than in Europe and in spite of bureaucratic hurdles, the adventure playground movement became popular throughout Japan. The play parks are now orga- nized as non-profit organizations (NPOs) under the Japan Adventure Playground Organization.

To this day the concept is roughly the same worldwide: the parks are often set up on wasteland or in a corner of an existing park, and they usually offer different zones, such as a fireplace, a water and sand/ mud area, a wood-working area, and an area with makeshift play Photos by Dorothee Jahn equipment, like tree huts and swings.

The playgrounds are supervised by youth workers, called ‘play lead- ers’ in Japan. This is sometimes seen as a contradiction to the origi- nal idea of letting children play freely and unsupervised, but in most countries the presence of a youth worker is required in order to be

28 WEEKENDER F a m i l i e s

Parenting Tip:

* For a list of some popular adventure parks in the Tokyo area, go to www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Lifestyle, then Families.

* Entry to all adventure playgrounds is free and everyone is welcome to play. Check the opening days and hours for each park, as some are only open a few days per week.

* Be prepared for your kids to get very dirty. Old shoes or rubber boots are best, and bring a spare set of clothes and a towel. Do not forget the mosquito repellent. Invite another parent to come along, as it is much more fun in a group. This type of park will usually be most popular with children between 5 and 12 years of age.

* Adventure playgrounds try to enforce a few easy-to-understand rules, and it is best to directly address the play leader when you are not sure how things work. For example, wood working tools or paint may be given out to one child at a time by the play leader, and the child will be expected to return the complete set once he is finished with it. Such rules vary from park to park.

* For more information (in Japanese only), see www.ipa-japan.org/asobiba.

able to offer play equipment that does not comply with the play- ground equipment standard.

The play leader’s job is not to tell the children what to do, but to ensure that basic safety rules are observed, to hand out tools and paint, and to organize the numerous activities that are offered year- round, such as harvesting of bamboo sprouts, cooking over an open fire, handcrafting, or making mochi. In many play parks the children can also grow vegetables and flowers.

Contrary to what parents may expect, less accidents happen on these makeshift playgrounds than on traditional ones, where the intended use of the always static equipment is often disregarded and children pay less attention to what they are doing. On an adven- ture playground children feel more involved, and thus much more responsible.

An important attraction of adventure playgrounds lie in their ever- changing layout, which makes them a place for kids to be carefree and creative. They exceed the purpose of traditional playgrounds, as they also serve as a kind of open-air youth center, a place to meet friends and peers away from the ever-watchful eye of adults. The parks offer a little haven of freedom, a much needed counterweight to the structured and regulated lifestyle which is norm for many chil- dren today.

For more information for families in Tokyo, go to :// www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Lifestyle, then Families / WEEKENDER 29 P r o d u c t s

Ready by Stephen Parker for the Rain 1 All photos courtesy of their respective brands or retailers. 2

3

30 WEEKENDER P r o d u c t s

6 4

5

one: Cheer up miserable mornings with this quirky umbrella. The top may be four: Hunter Boots, the original ‘green Wellies,’ are gaining popularity in the standard conservative black, but the underside is all blue skies and white Japan. Named after the Duke of Wellington’s original pair, they have been fluffy clouds. Designed by New York-based, avant-garde graphic designer Tibor keeping feet dry since 1856. Founded in Scotland, the boots successfully fuse Kalman, this umbrella is bound to put a spring in your step, even on the most style and substance. The tell-tale red and white logo and styling is a fixture at miserable and wet of days. British country and music festivals, and it has now also made a new home for itself in urban Tokyo.

MoMA Store (www.momastore.jp), ¥5,145. Select outdoor stores and www.welly.jp, ¥15,750.

two: Mottainai! The Japanese word, roughly meaning ‘what a waste,’ has been five: The lace-up version of Hunter Wellies is lower cut and easier to remove, used in a recent poster campaign focussing on the nation’s dark secret: umbrella and shows that the once traditionalist company is branching out with a whole trash. Japan consumes enormous amounts of plastic umbrellas, most of which host of new boot designs. Look for new limited-edition collaborations with red end up forgotten in train stations and outside shops. With so many identical carpet designer Jimmy Choo coming soon to Japan. plastic umbrellas, how do you distinguish which one is yours? A simple idea is this colorful grip, making it easier to find and pick up your umbrella when leaving.

Cibone (www.cibone.com), ¥367–472. Select outdoor stores and www.welly.jp, ¥17,850.

three: This prototype project, developed by Takashi Mastumoto at Keio six: Packable into a tiny bag, this tear-proof Gore-Tex shell jacket is available University, is like something straight from Bladerunner or a William Gibson novel. in six colors, and is perfect for the wet season. For complete rain protection, don The umbrella combines a mobile device and internet 3D map application. Pileus the matching trousers and face the elements. While it may not win points with makes city exploring fun, providing for natural interactions with web services the trendsetters while walking down Omotesando, this set nonetheless ensures via a large display and embedded sensors on the umbrella. Pileus was awarded wearers will be dry and comfortable head to toe. Bring on the rainy season! the Prix de l’innovation at Laval Virtual, the largest virtual reality conference in Europe. Watch out for it to hit stores in Tokyo soon.

Prototype still in development (www.takashimatsumoto.com). The North Face stores across Japan (www.goldwinwebstore.jp), ¥37,800.

For more information on cool products available in Tokyo, go to :// www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Lifestyle, then Products/ WEEKENDER 31 v

Responsible Living TOKYO ECO: Safe Sunning

by Danielle Rippingale Photos courtesy of MIMC courtesy Photos

Sun worshipers like myself will be doing cartwheels when the sun is I am a big fan of mineral makeup MIMC, and the company has really making a more regular appearance after an unusually cold winter and outdone itself with its unique mineral SPF formulations. MIMC’s mineral spring in Japan. While it is tempting to soak up the rays and get a healthy powder sunscreen not only provides fantastic protection, but also deals dose of Vitamin D, we all know the risks of lengthy sun exposure. But with the challenge of wearing sunscreen in a hot and humid climate like what many may not know is that sunscreen also has its own risks to Tokyo. Shiny faces be gone with MIMC’s mineral powder sunscreens that people and the planet. offer moderate to high protection with SPF 23+ (translucent, ¥5,040) and new 50+ (translucent or tinted, ¥6,300). The body powder sunscreen The US-based Environmental Working Group (EWG) has conducted SPF50+ is applied with a powder puff, and will keep skin shine-free and a vast amount of clinical research on sunscreens and exposed some protected from harmful UVA/UVB rays (¥5,250). alarming findings. Not only do the majority of sunscreens use health- compromising ingredients, but 80 percent of them do a poor job of ECO FACT protecting the skin from damaging UV rays. Furthermore, sunscreens are thought to be the culprits killing coral reefs around the world. An estimated 4,000 to 6,000 metric tons of sunscreen wash off Consider that every day around the world millions enjoy a dip in the ocean swimmers annually in oceans worldwide, and up to ten percent slathered in sunscreen. Italian research reported by National Geographic of coral reefs are threatened by sunscreen-induced bleaching. in 2008 describes how the symbiotic algae called zooxanthella that lives inside reef-building coral, providing coral with food energy through photosynthesis and contributing to its vibrant color, was being killed due The effective, certified organic and oh-so-adorable Badger Balm to a process involving four common ingredients in sunscreen: paraben, has just launched a new range of sunscreens in SPF 15 and SPF 30+. cinnamate, benzophenone, and a camphor derivative. Convenient to carry, the unscented SPF 30+ face stick offers water resistance and one of the most protective sunscreen ingredients, zinc Be a responsible and healthy consumer by using physical sunscreens or oxide, for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Badger boasts one organic and eco-friendly chemical sunscreens that work by absorbing of the highest EWG ratings for effective and safe sunscreens, and its the sun’s rays and contain these safe active ingredients: octylcrylene, SPF 30+ comes in lightly scented, unscented and dual use with anti- avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, oxybenzone, homosalate, 4-MBC, bug protection. Also available is an after-sun product called ‘Bali Balm,’ and mexoryl SX and XL. Just like other cosmetic products, the cosmetic which contains shea and cocoa butters. industry continues to test sunscreens and their ingredients on animals. Have compassion in your purchase and look for the logo ensuring that the All of these products are conveniently available at Cosme Kitchen in product is genuinely cruelty-free (for more information, see Tokyo Eco’s Daikanyama (near the station entrance). “Greening your Makeup Bag,” from the April 16, 2010 issue, online). Test your new sunscreen while being a tourist in your own town with the Before resigning to stay indoors all summer or beginning the search for Tokyo Great Cycling Tour. These six-hour guided tours take you to major a sombrero in Japan, visit EWG’s website for information on the best non- Tokyo attractions and cost ¥10,000 per person including bike rental, toxic and effective brands on the market (www.ewg.org/whichsunscreen insurance, a box lunch, a guide and tax. Visit www.tokyocycling.jp for sarebest/2009report). Read on to learn about a few of my favorites, which more information. are all available in Tokyo

Mineral moisturizers from Juice beauty are made with certified organic ingredients and are available in SPF 30 sheer and light tint and SPF 20 medium tint for extra coverage (¥5,250). For the body, try the green apple SPF 20 antioxidant moisturizer, which offers active protection with a punch (¥6,300). Photos courtesy of Badger courtesy Photos

GREEN GLOSSARY

Physical sunscreens: Sunblocks that deflect the sun’s rays using titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are physical filters that offer broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and are not absorbed into the skin.

/ For more information on living green in Tokyo, go to 32 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Lifestyle, then Tokyo Eco. :// Responsible Living

Sustainable_Business: by Luke Poliszcuk Good Ideas for Good Business

Want to learn how to build a house out of six million empty beer bottles Poliszcuk of Luke Image courtesy or grill a chicken in 14 minutes using only mirrors? Then check out www. eco-ideas.net, a global environmental communication portal launched by Panasonic as part of its commitment to promote the power of ideas and to accelerate the shift to greener lifestyles.

Learn how your everyday lifestyle choices impact the environment and make a difference by joining other like-minded individuals and under- taking eco-actions. See the impact your eco-actions make every day and introduce your friends and family with Facebook and Twitter so they relations, and is best known for supporting student exchanges with can visualize their impacts too. “We want the world to know how simple the UK and organizing cultural exchanges. However, it also supports ideas for life can change the world,” says Hisao Tsugita, a spokesperson youth to enable them to contribute to a sustainable future through the for the Panasonic supported website. “Ideas for shifting our lifestyles international network Climate Change Project and projects such as are being born everyday, everywhere, so why not have fun sharing and the E-Ideas Competition. turning them into reality?” The E-Ideas competition was established to fund good ideas for realistic solutions to urban issues in the five main areas of waste, water, trans- Ideas for shifting port, energy and sustainable design. A total of ¥5,000,000 was up for grabs with the two best ideas each receiving a grant of ¥800,000. Recipi- our lifestyles are ents will also become BC Climate Leaders, and be able to take part in being born everyday, events and training courses overseas. Winners of the E-Ideas competition will be presenting their projects at everywhere. the Green Leaders Forum at the British Council on June 7, 2010. The Green Leaders Forum is a free monthly learning and networking event for leading thinkers and practitioners from business, NGOs and gov- Eco-ideas.net features an ecological lifestyle blog that introduces ernment, as well as entrepreneurs, media, students, and those with a inspiring eco-ideas from around the world through video clips and pic- general interest in the fields of sustainability, cleantech, the environ- tures. The Eco+You section lets users record their eco-friendly actions ment and society, energy and climate change, corporate social respon- and see how small changes in their daily lives (measured in the five sibility (CSR), socially responsible investment (SRI), and environmental, categories of energy, CO2, water, waste, and community) can create big social and corporate governance (ESG). changes in the world we live in. The Panasonic Eco Update consists of daily eco-activities and news from locations around the world. The June event is a special Green Leaders Forum that will feature pre- sentations by the winners of the British Council’s E-ideas competition For those who have more sense than dollars, the British Council followed by workshops to discuss feedback and potential collaboration recently launched its E-Ideas Competition to support young Japa- with green leaders on their projects. For those who are keen to learn nese social and eco entrepreneurs. The British Council is the UK’s more about the winning projects or even lending a hand to help out, this international organization for educational opportunities and cultural is a great opportunity to get to know the winners and their ideas.

WEEKENDER 33 / To see more Weekender archives and read the full issues, go to 34 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com and click on Archives. ://