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Vol.41 No.15 Aug 20th–Sep 2nd, 2010 www.weekenderjapan.com Including Japan’s largest online classifieds

CONTENTS Volume 41 Number 15

Aug 20th–Sep 2nd, 2010

4 Up My Street 12 5-9 Arts & Entertainment

10-11 Tokyo Tables

12-13 Fashion

14-15 Business

16-19 Feature: Fuji Rock 20-21 Weekender Bulletin Board 16 22-23 Real Estate

24-27 Parties, People & Places

28-29 Families

30-31 Products 32-33 Healthy & Responsible Living 30 34 Back in the Day

PUBLISHER Ray Pedersen CONTRIBUTORS Kevin Jungnitsch, Cecelia Martinez, EDITOR Kelly Wetherille Sam Griffen, Simon Lawson, Christopher Jones, DESIGNER R. Paul Seymour Deborah Im, Ian de Stains OBE, Pankaj Arora WEB DEVELOPER Ricardo Costa MEDIA MANAGER Tomas Castro EST. Corky Alexander and Susan Scully, 1970 MEDIA CONSULTANTS Mary Rudow, Pia von Waldau RESEARCHER Rene Angelo Pascua OFFICE Weekender Magazine, 5th floor, Regency Shinsaka Building, 8-5-8 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 Tel. 03-6846-5615 Fax: 03-6846-5616 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Owen Schaefer (Arts), Bill Hersey Email: [email protected] (Society), Stephen Parker (Products), Elisabeth Lambert (Health & Eco), Darrell Nelson (Sustainable Business) Cover photo by Kevin Jungnitsch

Opinions expressed by Weekender contributors are not necessarily www.weekenderjapan.com those of the publisher.

3 WEEKENDER // Up My Street

Maruyama-cho may not ring any bells with many Tokyoites, but this small Up My Street visits residential district has some unexpected surprises waiting for its visitors. Just a few blocks away from the bustling main street of entertainment center Dogenzaka lies this quiet area, which offers a good variety of Japanese and Western restaurants, making it a neighborhood that will melt into the hearts of passionate foodies. When dusk arrives, a small handful of bars and izakayas open to people wanting to get away from the crowds of Dogenzaka. by Kevin Jungnitsch Maruyama-cho is also home to one of Tokyo’s most popular nightclubs, Womb. And the best part? All of this is conveniently located only ten minutes on foot from Shibuya station.

Osteria Baccano Tonkatsu Jyunya Womb

3-1 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku 22-16 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku 2-16 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-3461-0515 Tel: 03-3461-5233 www.womb.co.jp

Don’t be fooled by the ageing exterior—this If you’re a fan of Japan’s famed breaded pork For any clubber in Tokyo, a visit to what is restaurant offers top notch Italian cuisine. cutlet dish, Jyunya will satisfy your culinary arguably the city’s holy grail of clubs is a Baccano has a great atmosphere with an interior needs. Although it may not be a big chain like must. Close to Dogenzaka, Womb is famous that one would expect to find in the dining room Tonkatsu Wako or the much-hyped Maisen, it for hosting world-renowned DJs such as The of a Tuscan villa. The menu includes a wide definitely delivers in terms of the food. Think Chemical Brothers, John Digweed and Steve range of freshly prepared Italian dishes, from of a family-run restaurant with a simple but Aoki to play alongside local and resident antipasti to homemade pasta and pizzas. Why comfy interior that is very inviting after walking acts. On top of that is a stellar sound system not finish off your meal with your favorite Italian around in the searing sunshine. It may not be and light show above a massive dance floor dessert, such as gelato or tiramisu? Osteria as fancy as the big names, but it offers fresh, that is overlooked by three other floors. On Baccano also offers reasonable lunch menus crispy meat at decent prices. The lunch roast big nights the cover fee can be quite hefty, that are excellent value, although like many pork katsu set was certainly the most popular edging up toward ¥5,000, while on regular popular Tokyo establishments, it can get pretty order during my recent visit, with a stream of nights the charge is usually ¥3,500. If you’re packed from around noon. So if you plan to come hungry visitors demanding the tasty food. And unfamiliar with the club, check a map before in a group be sure to make a reservation or do a if you’re not a pork fan, the menu of course heading out, as it can be hard to find due to late lunch instead. offers other meats as well. its unassuming exterior.

Al What international l p ho to s act would you like b y K to see perform in e v i n Japan and why? 1 & 2. Mie, a student, and Sofie, J 3 u n a model, both from Denmark: “We g n

would really like to see Lady Gaga. She’s c simply amazing and we love her!” h Word 3. Michael, a drummer from the US: “I would like to see Floating Points from the UK. They make on the great music that’s got a great mood to it, Street... and I also like their inventive style.” 1 & 2

For more write-ups on Tokyo neighborhoods, go to 4 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com/upmystreet // Arts & Entertainment

Tokujin Yoshioka, Snow, 2010 Taro Shinoda, Reverberation, 2010

Takashi Kuribayashi, Seehund Hiroshima, 2004

The Elusive Nature of Nature

by Owen Schaefer an enclosure. It seems alien; out of place. The second screen runs through placid images of the water reservoir that provides much of Tokyo’s drinking When the Mori Art Museum proposed to do a three-artist show that would water. And the third is a series of films taken on Tokyo’s canals and water- examine the contemporary Japanese perception of nature, I hoped it ways. No humans are seen, but the signs of our industry are everywhere. would be more than a feel-good environmentalism show. While the ‘eco’ The box of the installation seems a container for Tokyo’s entire environ- movement may have grown, it seems that nature itself is increasingly ment, strangely portable and physical. Shinoda’s work muddies the bor- being packaged into simplified boxes. ders of nature so much that you are led to question its very meaning.

But pick any three artists and commission them to create new works, and It is Takashi Kuribayashi’s works that seem to best fulfill the promise of you’re going to get three different approaches. And while the approaches Sensing Nature. Kuribayashi also focuses on the borders between things, at Sensing Nature sometimes speak less to the perception of nature than but does not erase them quite as entirely as Shinoda. For me, it is Kurib- they do to the artists’ pet issues, the works highlight the fact that the ayashi that comes closest to a re-examination of nature and our place in it. nature of ‘nature’ is not so easy to pin down. In his forest work, viewers enter from underground; above is a landscape of washi paper with holes torn in different spots to allow the audience to Designer Tokujin Yoshiok’s main event for this show is Snow: a room, care- pop up and see the forest above them. The effect is that of seeing a familiar fully lit, containing several kilograms of feathers that are periodically scene from a place that even the environmentally minded tend to ignore. blown around to simulate the movement of snow. It’s a beautiful installa- Then a second work amplifies this notion, envisioning the continents as tion, and fascinating to watch as it moves from an almost blizzard-like fury we know them as only the tip of an earthen iceberg. Kuribayashi hints that to a gentle drifting. there is always more beneath the visible surface.

At first, Yoshioka seems an obvious choice for Sensing Nature. Previous Sensing Nature is a refreshingly simple show, not overburdened with struc- works, such as his essentially unusable chairs grown from crystals, have ture. And what it reveals, perhaps even despite itself, is the problem with been studies of the complex relationship between human industry and setting out to establish a contemporary view of ‘nature’—for some, nature natural processes: an object caught between growth and manufacturing. is going to be a thing outside of the human; for others it is something we But really, I expected more from him for this show. Snow, while beauti- are inextricable from. No consensus is reached here, but the journey is ful, doesn’t say much about the human relationship to nature. Instead, it one worth taking. comes across as a clever imitation, and like much of Tokujin’s work seems to hold nature at arm’s length for contemplation.

As a contrast, Taro Shinoda’s work, Reverberation, is refreshingly prag- Show: Sensing Nature: Rethinking the matic and very much a part of his ongoing efforts to point out connections Japanese Perception of Nature (to Nov 7) between the natural and urban, the local and universal. Gallery: Mori Art Museum (Roppongi station) Hours: (Tuesdays to 5pm) Reverberation is an enormous cube, three sides of which are lit by videos of 10am–10pm natural and urban scenes from around Tokyo. One screen shows images of Admission: ¥1,500 Tel: 03-5777-8600 buildings, interspersed with a shot of a tapir wandering back and forth in www.mori.art.museum // WEEKENDER 5 Arts & Entertainment Image courtesy of TGS2010 » Tokyo Happenings by Kevin Jungnitsch Photo courtesy of Kyodo

Simply Red Tokyo Game Show 2010

This iconic British soul band is coming to Tokyo on a farewell tour, This annual four-day expo and trade show opens its doors to the public meaning it will be the last time for fans to catch a live show in Japan. on the last two days, showing off the latest offerings in the video game The band was formed in Manchester and quickly grew to become an world. Major corporate players like Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony, as well international success in the mid-80s, captivating fans with classic pop as many game developers, will all have a presence. Gamers from all over tunes and soothing ballads. The final curtain call on the group comes the world come to get a glimpse of and try out the newest games and plat- from a desire by frontman (and the only remaining original member) forms, such as the highly anticipated 3D-capable variant of the Nintendo Mick Hucknall wishing to pursue a solo career after 25 years with DS. Sony and Microsoft’s motion sensing hardware will certainly draw Simply Red. Fans and music lovers won’t want to miss what is sure to buzz, as both expect to compete with the current Wii console. Go early to be a phenomenal show. avoid large crowds.

Sep 25, 6pm Tickets: ¥8,000–¥9,000 Sep 18–19, 10am–5pm Tickets: ¥1,000–¥1,200 Nearest station: Yurakucho Tel: 03-3462-6969 Nearest station: http://tgs.cesa.or.jp/english Kaihin Makuhari Photo by jetalone Photo by Leslie Kee

Azabu Juban Festival Tokyo Jazz Festival 2010

Once a year this sleepy district of Tokyo comes alive as it hosts the Jazz fans will surely be raving about this upcoming festival, although famous Azabu Juban Festival. For three days thousands of people, anyone who enjoys laid back music by both local and international acts many dressed in traditional yukata, pack the narrow streets for music, should give this one a visit. The performers on the schedule consist dancing, and lots of food. Unfortunately, the popular international of quartets, soloists and big bands, covering all types of jazz styles. area will be closed this year due to a construction project, but not to This year’s lineup is just as strong as ever, with acts like seven-time worry; the local cuisine is in no short supply. Look out for freshly made Grammy winner Al Jarreau, Marcus Miller, Joshua Redman and Maceo okonomiyaki, grilled sweet corn, yakisoba, and takoyaki. Then, pick up Parker. Also making an appearance will be the talented Roberta Flack, a cup of flavored shaved ice to cool you down from the searing heat. famous for hits like Killing Me Softly with His Song. Treat yourself to a day outing or catch an evening concert at this three-day event.

Aug 20–22, 3–9pm Admission: Free Sep 3–5, various times Tickets: ¥6,500–¥9,500 Nearest station: Azabu Juban www.azabujuban.or.jp Nearest station: Yurakucho www.tokyo-jazz.com 6 WEEKENDER // // Arts & Entertainment Photo courtesy of Aruga

100th ANNIVERSARY IN STORE EVENT

LIVE MUSIC WITH DE NIRO An Instrumental unit playing reminiscent music of long-loved Hollywood Movies.

Nobu Tokyo / Katsunuma Winery Collaboration Dinner

Looking for a place to wine and dine with someone special? Nobu Tokyo will be hosting a collaboration dinner with Katsunuma Winery for three consecu- tive evenings next month. The winery’s Aruga Branca white wines, which have been recognized internationally and have received both French and British awards, will be paired with an original Nobu dinner course. The dinner will feature seasonable vegetables, ayu (sweetfish) and finest Koshu beef from the Katsunuma region. Take the chance to enjoy exquisite gourmet cuisine while enjoying the diverse selection of Aruga wines available by the glass. . DE NIRO ARE: Sep 16–18 Cost: ¥13,000 Saxophone Performer Nearest station: Kamiyacho Tel: 03-5733-0070 Mr. Naoyuki Fujii and Programmer Mr. Hirofumi Asamoto

More Happenings...

Music Tokyo Rave August 20, 9pm, Atom, Shibuya, Tel: 03-5459- 0039 Temps Night August 28, 8pm–5am, Roppongi, Tel: 03-3584- 7890 Garage August 30, 10pm, Shibuya, Tel: 03-5459-0039 Now or Never Vol. 2 August 30, 5–9:30pm, Shibuya, Tel: 03-3496-1561 Renegades Steel Drum Orchestra August 30, 7pm, Bunka Center, Shinjuku, Tel: 03-5720-9999

Exhibitions World Architecture Schools through September "DE NIRO" MUSIC LIVE: 24, 10am–6pm, closed Sundays, Koto-ku, Tel: 03-6660-6011 Asahi Art Festival 2010 through September 12, Azumabashi, Tel: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH 03-3353-6866 The Birth of Chinese Civilization September 5, 1st Show 13:45, 2nd Show 16:15 9:30am–5pm, closed Mondays, Taito-ku, Tel: 03-5777-8600 Pioneer Ermenegildo Zegna Shinjuku Global Store of Japanese Animation September 9, 11am–6:30pm, closed 3-19-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Mondays, Kyobashi, Tel: 03-5777-8600 Tel: 03-3355-3311 SHINJUKU STORE ONLY: RED CARPET FASHION SHOW Sports Legend Ultimate Basketball Championship August 100th Anniversary Fabric No.1 Model Presentation 29, Studio Coast, Shin-kiba, Tel: 03-5534-2525 Friends on Ice Centennial Limited Edition Suit reproduced from "Fabric No.1" into the current and innovative "15 MilMil 15" fabric weighing 270 grams. August 29, 4:30pm, Shin-Yokohama Skate Center, Tel: 03-3322-8855 World Championships September 9–13, 10am, Yoyogi National MARUNOUCHI STORE NAGOYA STORE Stadium, Tel: 03-3818-4430 WWE Raw August 20–21, 6pm, Ryogoku SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH Kokugikan, Tel: 03-3498-9999 September 11th, Saturday 1st Show 14:00, 2nd Show 17:00 1st Show 14:00, 2nd Show 17:00 1st Show 14:00, 2nd Show 17:00Ermenegildo Zegna Ermenegildo Zegna Ermenegildo Zegna Marunouchi Store Marunouchi Store Nagoya Store 1-10-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku 1-10-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku 3-8-20 Sakae, Naka-ku Tel: 03-5220-0111 Tel: 03-5220-0111 Tel: 052-249-8401

For Tokyo’s largest English events calendar, go to //weekenderjapan.com/tokyohappenings WEEKENDER 7 Alice in Wonderland Arts & Entertainment

How to Train Your Dragon The Sorcerer’s Apprentice The Karate Kid

The latest computer-animated film from the Based on the famous poem and a segment Will and Jada Pinkett Smith produced and makers of the Shrek series is a delight for from Fantasia, this Jerry Bruckheimer son Jaden stars in this remake of the 1984 children and adults alike. Hiccup is a teenage film follows Balthazar (Nicholas Cage), a classic. While the details are different outcast in his Viking village because of his sorcerer who has spent thousands of years (California becomes Beijing, karate becomes clumsiness and lack of brawn. He dreams searching for his apprentice (Jay Baruchel), king fu, and Mr. Miyagi is now Mr. Han, a of becoming a dragon slayer like the other who is said to be capable of defeating the maintenance man played by Jackie Chan), men in his tribe, including his father (also evil Horvarth (Alfred Molina) and his even the story is pretty much the same. But as the tribe’s leader). But when he captures more powerful master, Morgana (Alice remakes go, this one stands above most his very first dragon, he can’t bering himself Krege). It’s pretty predictable and cheesy others. Jaden proves that he’s more than to kill it, and instead befriends it as he at times, but the special effects are good just the lucky kid of famous parents with nurses it back to health. It’s an honest, enough for a summer movie and Baruchel some believable acting, and Jackie Chan touching coming-of-age story that anyone as the dorky-but-not-too-dorky Dave also delivers an unusually strong emotional can relate to, and even includes some funny Stutler is the movie’s high point. Some performance. Some beautiful scenery and and exciting moments. The heartwarming funny moments and entertaining action entertaining kung fu fight scenes round it ending teaches a lesson of friendship, sequences are amusing enough to keep out, and in the end you can’t help feeling sacrifice, and change. Now playing. the film afloat. Now playing. –Sam Griffen happy the underdog wins. Now playing.

by Cecelia Martinez

↑ © 2010 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C. All rights reserved. ↑ © 2009 Disney Enterprises, Inc. and Jerry Bruckheimer, Inc. ↑ Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures Entertainment ↓ © 2009 Tornasol Films - Haddock Films - 100 Bares All rights reserved. ↓ © 2009 Village Roadshow Films (BVI) Limited Producciones - El Secreto De Sus Ojos (Aie) ↓ © 2010 Twentieth Century Fox

The Secret in Their Eyes The A-Team Cats and Dogs 2: The Revenge of Kitty Galore Winner of Best Foreign Language film at the The film version of the popular 80s TV The first Cats and Dogs film brought the recent Academy Awards, this Argentinean series satisfies both longtime fans and hilarious battle of secret espionage crime thriller is full of suspense, violence, A-Team newbies with a grown-up version between felines and canines to the big flashbacks and plot twists. It follows the of the familiar story. Swap Vietnam for screen. In Cats and Dogs 2, one cat has character of Benjamin (Ricardo Darín), a Iraq, swap cheap stunts for some exciting taken things a paw too far. Kitty Galore retired court investigator who is haunted action and special effects, plus add a gritty has gone rouge, and wants to take down by a 25-year-old case involving a woman’s and edgy twist, and there you have it. The not only her dog enemies, but also her murder. Writer and director Juan José plot centers on how they become fugitives former kitty comrades. An unlikely Campanella is no stranger to this genre, (looking for justice) for a crime they did not alliance between the two former furry having directed episodes of the US television commit. There are reliable reproductions enemies may be the only way to stop her. series Law & Order, and the top notch actors of the original characters (including Liam The sequel, showing in both 2D and 3D, fill the movie with raw emotion, along with Neeson as Hannibal Smith), performing utilizes the latest puppetry and computer a few moments of comic relief. While the some enjoyably imaginative, though scarcely graphics to bring the family comedy to story itself can be hard to follow at times, the believable moves. But as we know, with the life, and some funny moments will have effort definitely pays off in the end with an A-Team, if you can find them, anything is both kids and parents laughing out loud. extremely well-executed film. Now playing. possible! Now playing. –Simon Lawson In theaters August 21. –Christopher Jones

8 WEEKENDER Alice in Wonderland

// Photo courtesy of Restaurant Hannibal Restaurant of courtesy Photo - - - bread to start, start, to bread tabuna B1F, 3-53-3 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku Sendagaya, 3-53-3 B1F, 03-3479-3710 Tel: www.hannibal.cc : think huge, Tunisian-style spring spring Tunisian-style huge, think : , a hot pepper paste that is traditionally traditionally is that paste pepper hot a , brik harrissa , a strong brandy brandy strong a , boukha (5:30pm–12am) Open daily Restaurant Hannibal, Restaurant Harajuku by Stephen Parker Stephen by and Indian many so but Tokyo, in aplenty are restaurants Multicultural cuisine authentic and food, Japan-ized bland sell restaurants an Mexican is Harajuku, near located Hannibal, find. to difficult be the sometimes to can walls tiled colored brightly the from restaurant, Tunisian real the authentic is here food The Fridays. on dancing belly and pipe water hookah Africa. North of flavor and spice the with bursting deal, coun the as ingredients, European healthy of blend a is cuisine Tunisian he though month, each changes he that dishes 40 over of menu pansive customers. regular for menu set classic a keeps handmade soft recommended Mondher Chef of dip side a a with served served also were we down palates our cool To meals. before served paprika. with seasoned plant egg and tomatoes olives, of salad green of plate surprising a came parme Next egg, soft whole delicious a with filled was pastry crispy The rolls. without eat to challenge kipper—a and potatoes parsley, cheese, san effort. the worth well but fingers, your on yolk the spilling healthy a and stew vegetable and chicken traditional a was dish main full, The feeling already were we end the By couscous. staple: African North room leave to struggled and expected I dessert. the for ice- like standard something we instead but finish, to cream plate sweet devilishly a received to Similar baklava. Tunisian of dish the counterpart, Greek its chopped of mix a of consisted honey and sesame almonds, chef The pastry. thin in up rolled a without leave us let wouldn’t of shot a packs that figs from made one off rounding punch, decent have I meals unique most the of Tokyo. in eaten ever try sits on the Mediterranean Sea south of Italy, but also draws heavily heavily draws also but Italy, of south Sea Mediterranean the on sits try Greek, French, including past, the of influences historical the from ex an cooks Gheribi Mondher Owner-chef African. and Eastern Middle - - - - yu dump kaiseki balls shumai Photo by Deborah Im by Deborah Photo jelly. Private jelly. mochi (several other (several azuki meal replaces themealreplaces is a charminglyapresented is kaiseki soup and an assortmentansoupand of , boiled tofu which is flavored to flavored whichtofuisboiled , 2F, 2-27-18 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku Minami-Aoyama, 2-27-18 2F, 03-5412-0855 Tel: Tokyo) throughout locations www.umenohana.co.jp yuba otsukuri yu dofuyu , savory steamed egg custard with a withsavorysteamedcustardegg, and ground whitefishground and served a dish, with is tofu, a delightful,tofu,a tofu-like creamy dish yuba mineoka is deep-friedis wheatflavorfulglutentoppedwitha course prepared table side,sauceservedwithsoytable preparedcourse chawanmushi experience. yuba (paper thin tofu skin created by boiling soy milk until a thinboilingmilkuntila (paperbysoy skincreatedthintofu

, a deep-frieda , kaiseki gratin dish is delightfullygratindishis perfectly brownedcheesy witha

witha yuba WEEKENDER yuba Open daily for lunch (11am–4pm) for Open daily and dinner (5–10pm) thentic tatami dining rooms are available and highly recommended for an au anavailablerecommendedhighly andfor tatamiare dining rooms crust.final course Thesavory includes steamed glutinous with rice clearrefreshing eel,servedwitha Japanesefinished with soybeanpickles.mealis The nicely ice off soybeandustedpowderwithroastedand cream A slice of lemon with its own single lemon-slicesingleownwithitssqueezer. lemon ofslice Namafudengaku and freshly grated key lime.gratedkey freshlyand wheatchewinesssimilarthatofmisopaste.theglutenThe isofto savoryumami.perfectdoseofA addsa mochi,misopaste the and yubaage taste by the diner with soy sauce, sesame seeds and grated ginger. sauce,sesamedinerthewithsoyseedsgratedginger. andby taste expensivetheslightlyversionmoreof A The Zen course alsoincludescourseZenThe sashimigratedwasabi.tofuservedcoursewithfreshA accompaenhancedthewonderfullyby is lingmadewithcrab savory, nyingponzudipping sauce. dofu treasure trove of shrimp,ofgingkonut,mushroomand trove treasure inside,perfectlyexecuted.Theis Ume no Hana’s noUme made from milk, fresh cream and arrowroot starch. arrowrootand cream milk, fresh madefrom The Ume no Hana Zen course is a veritable steal at ¥4,600 for a ten a¥4,600 atforveritablesteal a iscourseHanaZen no UmeThe mealconsistingcoursedelicious,of innovativetofu-derivedandtofu sampling marinated vegetables,a course of dishes. is green first The cold Diners will see tofu in a new light after a visit to Ume no Hana. A so Hana.Ano Ume visit to light afteranew a inDinerstofuwillsee out-of-towntake a tovisitorsplace forgreat a isHanameals,no Ume uniqueJapanesedining experiencebank.the thatwon’tbreak layerforms)and Minami-Aoyama DeborahbyIm Ume no Hana, Ume no phisticated,tastefulchainthatservesrestauranttofucreative Tokyo Tables TokYo Tables 10 // Tokyo Tables Photo by Kelly Wetherille by Kelly Photo

Lauderdale, Roppongi

by Kelly Wetherille

Since Lauderdale opened on Keyakizaka-dori in Roppongi Hills last year, it has been a favorite among locals for its imaginative lunches and brunches. The bottomless coffee and wireless internet access has some regulars easily whiling away several leisurely hours on a weekend morning or afternoon. But on my first evening visit recently, I discovered that this little restaurant has much more to offer than omelets and baguettes.

It was a perfect Tokyo summer evening, so we took a seat outside on the terrace, which has just enough greenery to block out the passing cars while still affording a lovely view of Mori Tower above. For drinks, we ordered from the signature cocktail menu, and chose a mojito (¥800) and a concoction called ‘passion vibes’ (¥850), a refreshing non-alcoholic blend of tropical fruit juices. We decided to share an appetizer, so asked for our server’s recommendation. He immediately suggested the mussels, which were cooked in a white wine, garlic and herb sauce that was both flavorful and light (¥1,700).

Next came the soufflé, a Lauderdale trademark. There are six varie- ties on the menu, and our waiter informed us that the one we chose, gruyere and mushroom (¥1,100), is the most popular. We were in- structed to make a hole in the center of the soufflé and then pour in the provided cream for the best taste. We obeyed, and the result was an airy yet indulgent mix of sweet and savory flavors.

For the main dish, I chose another recommendation by the waiter: a juicy chicken breast served with mashed potatoes (¥1,700). The chicken is baked at a very low heat for 100 minutes before being quickly pan-roasted to give the skin a light crispiness. “This dish is healthy and juicy,” bragged the server. My dining partner opted for the fresh fish of the day (¥1,900–¥2,400), which happened to be skin-on salmon with a cauliflower cream and red wine sauce. It, too, was perfectly cooked to a crisp outside and tender inside, and the medley of flavors were pleasingly unexpected.

For dessert we braved yet another Lauderdale favorite: a massive brownie sundae that would rival any one may find Stateside (¥1,100). Even though we were sharing it, we found it difficult to finish off this sinfully decadent creation—but don’t worry, we did.

Open daily (7am–10pm) 1F Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka-dori 6-15-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku Tel: 03-3405-5533 www.lauderdale.co.jp

For more restaurant and bar reviews, go to //weekenderjapan.com/tokyotables WEEKENDER 11 F a s h i o n

by Kelly Wetherille

The humble t-shirt may often be overlooked by fashionistas, but there are a few select designers around the world who are out to change that by offering unique, stylish motifs on t-shirts with a flattering cut. In Japan, they are the team behind a new label called Green T. Launched in Kyoto in 2009, the company was founded by a group of Japanese and Westerners who could not find high-quality t-shirts with interesting designs that they wanted to wear, or to give to other people as gifts. They also noticed a shortage of Japan-inspired t-shirts that are available in Western sizes.

Since its inception last year, Green T has been making and selling original apparel based on Japanese motifs, with both retro and modern themes. On March 7 of this year, the company opened its first store in the historic Gion district of a Kyoto, and a second location To T is planned for Tokyo within the year. Chief designer Minami spoke with Weekender about the brand and the team’s plans for the future.

12 WEEKENDER F a s h i o n

What message do you want to convey to customers through your products?

Quite simply, that designs based on Japanese themes can be cool and fun to wear.

Who would you say are your target customers?

Our target customers are those who demand something a little out of the ordinary, those who are interested in fashion and design, and those who visit Kyoto or Japan and want a remembrance of their visit. That said, many (about 50 percent) of our customers are locals from Kyoto.

How would you describe Green T’s design philosophy? What makes Green T unique compared to other brands? We are proud to promote Japanese motifs in new ways, although this may involve poking Japan has plenty of impressive design t-shirt fun at them. Every aspect of what we do stores. However, we are the only one focusing involves thinking about how to take the best exclusively on Japanese themes (cultural, of Japanese elements and combine them into retro and modern) for our designs. One of our a casual but cool product for our customers. Until the Tokyo location is confirmed and most popular designs is one based on soba, open for business, check the Green T website or Japanese buckwheat noodles. at www.green-t.jp for more information. In What are GreenT’s goals and the future, products will also be available for When customers make a purchase at Green plans for the future? purchase via this site. T, they receive their t-shirts wrapped up in a Japanese furoshiki, a traditional cloth that is We plan to gradually expand our range of Visitors to Kyoto can check out the Green T reusable as a carry bag, and is also designed designs. We currently have 15 designs in our store in the Gion First Building at: by us. Apart from being convenient, it is a collection, and we already have quite a few 281-1 Kitagawa, Gion-machi, Higashiyama-ku, nice way to give a gift to someone. new ones in the works. We would also like Kyoto. Tel: 075-541-7828 to open more stores, with the next one being a presence in Tokyo somewhere, and to sell through other stores that have a compatible customer base. In addition to all this, we are looking at introducing children’s sizes and a line of jeans, as we have had numerous requests from customers for these. But as they say, all good things take time...

WEEKENDER 13 B u s i n e s s

THE VIEW FROM HERE by Ian de Stains OBE Photo by szlea shop, cycling there and back the better to fool myself that I’m taking exercise. It’s a small place—two chairs, though he’s always worked alone—in a small backstreet, with just enough room at the front for the bike. The shop is filled with potted plants that he tends with same dedication he has for his customers. Most of us, I suspect, are regulars, and he has a knack for remembering which subjects we’re happy to chat about and what we prefer to have on the TV, which is never off.

Not for him the shears and clippers; scissors of all shapes and sizes, sat- isfyingly glinting on the tray beside the chair as ordered and as daunting as the instruments in a dental clinic, each to their purpose. The razors, too—for no visit here is complete without a shave—and this is where the real indulgence comes in.

It begins with the application of an emollient and then an extremely hot towel that’s wrapped around the entire jaw and left to soften the beard and open the pores. Before that’s had time to cool a second towel, even hotter than the first, takes its place before the barber applies a liberal amount of lather, the better to help the blade’s work. Of course he uses only straight-edge ‘cut-throat’ razors, which he strops to an almost impossible sharpness and which he wields with an apparent abandon True Confessions that simply proves his mastery of the tonsorial craft.

This being Japan, it isn’t only the jaw that is shaved, but the ears and if need be the forehead: these little things matter more when a gentleman I am a man of very few indulgences. My needs are simple, and I am satis- reaches a certain age. But that’s not all: more hot towels, a soothing balm fied by simple pleasures. I’m not one for spoiling myself, but I do enjoy (unscented of course) and then, the crowning moment that might make it treating others when appropriate. However, I confess there’s one indul- all worthwhile. A powerful massage of the neck and shoulders and right gence I absolutely wallow in, and I do it once a month. through to the crown of the head leaves you positively glowing. I can’t think of a better way to spend 45 minutes once a month, and all for ¥4,000. The traditional Japanese barbershop is something akin to the barbershop Indulgence? You bet! to which my father took me when I was a schoolboy in Britain. Nothing at all like the unisex parlors that are the norm today, they’re down to earth and practical. They even have the red, white and blue barber’s pole (though admittedly most of them are now electric optical illusions). Ian de Stains is the executive director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan. The views expressed in this column are strictly his own and are not I’ve been going to the same barber for about 20 years, and even after we necessarily endorsed or shared by the Chamber. moved house a few stations away, I’ve made the monthly visit back to his

// B u s i n e s s

E-Level Profiles / Entrepreneurs in Japan Photo courtesy of Sunil Kulkarni EdwardSunil Kulkarni Suzuki

of Fidel Technologies (www.fideltech.com)

After years of working in the IT industry in both Japan and India, Sunil Kulkarni decided to take the plunge and start his own business at the age of 30. His company is now of the leading providers of IT and localization services between Japan and his native country, helping to bridge the gap between these two very different markets.

How long have you been in Japan? now, it is still slow); less availability of a mentor network whereby one gets From January 1997 onwards, so around 13 years now. advice from different mentors (here I was lucky to meet and network with foreign entrepreneurs, but it is still difficult to connect with local entre- What is your background and why did you decide to start your business? preneurs even if one knows Japanese); and developing and constructing a I came to Japan as an IT engineer and worked with local Japanese compa- business model to crack the local B2B model in IT Services (despite trying nies. There was no specific reason as such—it was rather a few things that to hire local sales people). came together. First, in 2000 there was the internet boom, Shibuya (‘Bit Valley’) became the IT center of Japan, Hotmail was founded and sold by an What sets your company apart from its competitors? Indian, etc. Also, I did the JMEC course, which gave me insight to the sales The biggest difference is language and local expertise. We have a pool of and finance side of the business. Lastly, I turned 30 in 2001. Given that an bilingual resources in India, as well as Japan. It wouldn’t be exaggerating average Indian life expectancy was around 60–65, I felt like I had finished to say that, especially in India, when it comes to accounting for bilingual half of my life doing something that perhaps I never wanted to do. That day resources, we would be counted as one of the few best companies. We are when i returned home, I told my wife that I had registered a company and also very strongly connected now with local vendors and alliances, and resigned from my job. offer a one-stop window solution to most of the requirements in areas of IT and resourcing. Please tell us a bit about your company. Fidel Technologies is into IT and localization services. While doing my What kind of advice would you give to aspiring previous IT job, I saw some mixed results regarding IT outsourcing—some professionals and entrepreneurs? projects going bad, some successfully. There was and is a need for a To those who want to know when is the right time to start their own busi- company to bridge the gap between Japan and India through communica- ness, I say it’s now or never. There is nothing like an ideal time (at a concept tion, better project management tools, and a clear focus on specific local level). It’s like marriage. Once you are married you automatically tend to needs. We changed the model a bit, whereby we treated the Japan office take ownership and responsibility for your actions. At an idea level, I would as our headquarters and the India office as a development center. From say all are good. So there is no harm in trying out different ideas with a a client’s perspective they see a clear difference in terms of ownership, bootstrap budget and small scale. These initial steps automatically vali- responsibility and delivery. date the reality of the idea, and then slowly one gets trained to filter ideas into the more realistic ideas versus the fads. We provide application development and infrastructure support services to local Fortune 500 and SME companies. This includes developing applica- Secondly, business is for the long haul. At least one generation needs to tions for CRM, SCM-ERP, and financial areas using different open source slog out completely (if you are a first generation entrepreneur), so unless frameworks like SugarCRM, as well as products like Oracle and Microsoft. you are really passionate and committed to that extent, it will be a drag on Recently we are also into iPhone and Android based application develop- personal financial and emotional resources. ment, and have initiated some Cloud based services as well. Thirdly, and something that I learnt very late, is to really take some time off What are the Japan-specific challenges your business faces? for family. If you do so, it comes back to you spiritually, making you strong. I think the main challenges are long sales cycles; a conservative approach In my case, my wife has been very patient and has given me time to settle towards IT outsourcing—especially to India (though we are seeing a change down in my business. But one tends to take family or friends for granted and conveniently ignore them—the very core of one’s existence.

For more executive and entrepreneur profiles, go to //www.weekenderjapan.com/business WEEKENDER 15 Feature: Fuji Rock

Massive Attack MGMT MGMT

* *

* MUSE

Jamie Cullum

16 WEEKENDER Photos with * by Stephen Parker, others by Kevin Jungnitsch Feature: Fuji Rock Fuji Rock: Music, Mud & Madness

by Stephen Parker disco balls hung from trees, a wooden walkway meandered through the forest, and the music fans wore some of the weirdest clothes, sun- I have tried three times to get tickets for England’s Glastonbury festival glasses and hats I have ever seen. and failed every time. The famed music festival became so popular that the organizers introduced a lottery system for allocating tickets, and I The first star band on the lineup was 1990s Irish band Ash, which is never got lucky. The Japanese equivalent of Glastonbury is Fuji Rock, making a comeback with a new album called A–Z. The plan is for them but luckily tickets for this festival are easier to come by. to launch one single every two weeks, for a total of 26 in all. As the sun came out the polite crowd switched to frantic jumping and rowdy I didn’t know what to expect from Fuji Rock, as this was my first camping moshing at the front of the stage, and crowd surfers were lifted out festival in Japan, but from the start it was like no other I’d been too. The by security staff. The band satisfied fans with hits such as Girl from Naeba ski resort that hosts the rock fest isn’t actually near Mt. Fuji at Mars, which got the whole crowd singing along. When the music had all; the festival moved here in 1998, but the easily remembered ‘Fuji finished, civilization returned and people peacefully headed off to the Rock’ name stuck. bar or the next stage.

With plenty of time to spare at Tokyo station and backpacks bursting with supplies, we waited for the shinkansen. Many people choose to Comfortable trains and drive to Naeba, but we thought that, in order to beat traffic, the express hotels most definitely have train would be a better choice. Japanese bullet trains are famed for their efficiency, but (my) human error put us on the wrong platform with their place in the world, the double deck train seconds from leaving. After sprinting bags-and- but for a rock festival, all to the next platform, we narrowly made it through the closing doors. The adventure had just begun. camping is a must.

Just over an hour later we arrived in a quiet mountain village and As this is Japan, I wasn’t surprised to see that Fuji Rock includes an hopped on a free bus headed seemingly to nowhere. When we arrived at extensive gift shop, the entrance to which had longer queues than the campground the rain was pouring down, and we had to attempt to some of the toilets. Buying a t-shirt at a rock festival is a tradition, and pitch our tents in the dark. In the background the booming noises of the the Japanese fans take it very seriously. Walking around I saw people Thursday night pre-party could be heard, and the sky was streaked with wearing shirts from Coachella, Glastonbury, Leeds and other global lasers and search lights. In the distance loomed the luxurious Naeba festivals. But by the last day it seemed that everyone was wearing a Fuji Prince Hotel, where most of the international stars would stay. Lucky Rock t-shirt, and the gift shop had sold out completely. for them, I thought as I looked down at my drenched and muddy clothes. But I reassured myself with the thought that comfortable trains and In my experience, eating at any type of festival food is usually a rip-off, hotels most definitely have their place in the world, but for a rock fes- or the food is terrible quality. But the food at Fuji Rock was surprisingly tival, camping is a must, regardless of the weather. I did, however, feel good, with the world kitchen area selling cuisine from across the globe, ill prepared next to some Japanese campers, who looked like they were all reasonably priced. Delicious Thai curry and rice was ¥500; English headed on an arctic expedition with all the latest designer outdoor gear. fish and chips were ¥600, andyakisoba was ¥500. Draft beer was ¥600— about the average price at a gig. The next day I was woken by the pounding of hammers. Peering out of my tent, the grassy field was gone, only to be replaced by a sea of tents After Ash, hipster rockers The Cribs played to the packed field, and with people still arriving all around, knocking pegs into the wet ground. gave one of the best performances of the festival. The natural amphi- Wandering through the early morning festival was a great experience: theater that surrounds the main ‘green’ stage was covered in chairs and

WEEKENDER 17 Feature: Fuji Rock Photos by Kevin Jungnitsch

Photo by Stephen Parker

camp stools, and the high-energy trendsetters wowed the crowd with MGMT drew so many crowds onto the muddy field that security closed hands-in-the-air indie rock. The main headliner for Friday was Muse. the entrance, unsurprisingly seeing as how in the past year the The band has played all over the world, and is almost a standard at band’s Youtube music video Kids has over 30 million views. MGMT’s festivals. No one will be getting fired for making that booking, as the overall performance, though, was disappointing. Lead singer Andrew crowds predictably loved it. VanWyngarden’s voice didn’t match the expectations set by all the hype. The hits Kids and Electric Feel were good, but the rest was a bit On Saturday, the five Englishmen who make up Kula Shaker played their lackluster for such a vast crowd, and the packed audience was left smash hits in the early sunshine, and the main stage area was already wanting more. jam packed. Later on Jamie Cullum, the pint-sized pianist, showed that he is a pure entertainer and showman. His jazzy songs and cover ver- sions went down well, and he energetically bounded around the stage, As the sun came out the jumping off his piano and even running through the crowd at one point. polite crowd switched He even joked about only having one hit single, “played over four times on the radio!” and the audience loved it. As the heavens opened he sang to frantic jumping and a funny Singing in the Rain / Umbrella cover, paying homage to Gene Kelly rowdy moshing at the and Rihanna. front of the stage. Cullum compared the Japanese festival with that of Glastonbury in England. “It’s brilliant here, even when it rains. At Glastonbury it Later in the ‘red’ marquee, which hosted acts and also provided handy becomes like a sewer,” he said. Perhaps not the best image to bring to shelter from the ever-shifting rain, was one of the star performances mind, and to some of the crowd the joke was clearly lost in translation. of the whole show, by Japanese act the Dexpistols. The DJ and hip-hop But when he tried speaking Japanese with a, “Watashi wa Jamie Cullum combination gave their all to the packed tent. The high speed electro desu,” the audience appreciated the effort. music and manic Japanese rapping was accompanied by incredible dancing and energy, making for a truly great performance. Expect very The headliner for Saturday was 80s legend Roxy Music. The video dis- big things from the trio in the future. played on the big screen showed clips from the band’s heyday. Lead singer Bryan Ferry swaggered onto the stage to loud cheers, and the Immediately following The Dex Pistols, with no time even to go to the bar nostalgic hits clearly brought back good memories, with the audience for a refill, came the equally popular Boys Noize. The dirty electro mixes singing along to More Than This and John Lennon cover Jealous Guy. But got hundreds of fans jumping and dancing into the night. The visuals ultimately the slow music and bad weather left most of the crowd stand- were equally impressive, although tasteless remixed videos of a-bomb ing still or leaving early to catch MGMT on the second ‘white’ stage. explosions projected behind the stage were a poor choice.

18 WEEKENDER Feature: Fuji Rock

Photo by Stephen Parker

On Sunday morning, 90s band Ocean Colour Scene rocked out to an eager crowd. The group, which hit the charts during the Brit-pop area of Oasis and Blur, obviously had many fans in Japan. One fan held a huge British Reliable – Fast&Efficient – Friendly – Confidential Flexile – with reasonable rates! flag in the air, prompting a joke about England losing the World Cup. The band’s anti-war anthem, Profit in Peace, proved to be a sing-along classic, and the weather brightened up to match the positive mood.

New Yorkers Vampire Weekend played a great afternoon performance. The members of the indie band dressed in preppy clothes, a possible nod to their beginnings at Columbia University. Upbeat singles including A-Punk got the crowd dancing, and afterward many audience members commented that the band probably would have made a better choice for headliner than Roxy Music.

In the red marquee on Sunday, British electro pop group Hot Chip played an incredible show, as LCD Soundsystem played simultaneously on a bigger stage. Lead singer of Hot Chip Alexis Taylor joked, “You realize you are missing LCD Soundsystem to watch us? Thank you!” Anthems Ready for the Floor and Over and Over had the tent jumping. Band member Joe Goddard didn’t make it to Japan, so the band rigged up a screen on which We at Nakai Immigration Services have been serving the foreign community, individual as well as corporate clients for over 18 years, and we are here a bizarre video of his floating head provided backup singing. to help you efficiently with all your Immigration related needs.

Sunday’s headliners and stars of the festival were Radiohead front man Options after changing jobs? Freelance? Starting your own business? Thom Yorke and bassist Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who have Considering a permanent residency status or Unable/too busy to go to even becoming a naturalized citizen of Japan? Immigrations in person? joined forces to create the band Atoms for Peace. Thousands packed in to watch the show, but I got the feeling that the duo’s fame was what What if period of stay has expired Hiring foreign employees or an application has been rejected? or transferring them to Japan? drew people in, rather than the music. Finally on the last night, sur- prise act the Scissor Sisters played a camp pop show to finish the long Contact us to discuss the most suitable solution in English, German, Spanish or Japanese: weekend—a great band to ensure the festival ended on a high note. Tel: 03-6402-7654 At the end of my first Fuji Rock festival I was tired, sunburned and dirty. Email: [email protected] I can’t wait for next year. 99%+ success rate with over 30,000 applications filed

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 ulletin Board Simply type in the ID to find the ad you’re looking for.

Sony Stereo ID: 59342 Refrigerator with Freezer ID: 59258 Guitar Lessons ID: 57119 the expertise of cosmetic dentistry root canal AUTO Beautiful, excellent, bigger unit. Sound repro- Large refrigerator with freezer top section, cooler Guitar lessons by a professional player, gradu- treatment, gum treatment and laser treatment. duction is perfection. Four-way speaker. Amp/ for vegetables. Pick up from Tsunashima station. ated from the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Nakashima Dental Office provides total dental Ford Festiva GLX ID: 59348 cassette deck/tuner/5MD/5CD with iPod/DVD, ¥10,000. Available from august 23, please email Instructor in a contemporary music school in care to the highest standards currently in practice Good condition. Cheap motoring (about 14km/L). etc. Brushed metal. Possible usage of only amo to view or reserve. Good condition. Email allter- Tokyo. Improve your technique, tempo, feel, in Europe and North America. Nearly three- Clean inside and out. Air conditioner and heater and speakers. ¥30,000. [email protected] or call 080-4068-1281. knowledge of chords, scales, guitar tools, and quarters of Dr. Nakashima’s patients are foreign OK. ETC system, original alloy wheels. Bronze experience playing with a real band. Contact residents from over 40 countries around the world. color. Will entertain offers over ¥50,000. Samsung 730 SC (Softbank) ID: 59332 [email protected] or 090-6522-5932. For Private insurance welcomed. Please contact: Samsung 730SC hand set, includes original box details see www.myspace.com/betogex. 03-3479-2726 or visit www.dentist-nakashima.jp. Honda Super Four ID: 59347 and charger. Prepaid SIM card could be supplied FURNITURE Burgundy NC31. Very good condition. Engine if agreed. Price ¥5,500 obo. Can meet you on ASSOCIATION OF JAPANESE TEACHERS super smooth and well maintained. Moriwaki Yamanote line between Shinjuku and Ueno (on Furniture Items ID: 59389 A non-profit teachers’ co-operative offers busi- muffler, spare tank. 15,000km on the clock. Ikebukuro side). Respond to [email protected] Two seater black sofa with two leather cushions, SPORTS ness, daily conversation, BJT, new proficiency test New tires and battery. Will entertain offers with your contact information. two tables (one white and one black), three car- preparation, and children’s lessons. Fully qualified, over ¥150,000. pets (one electric carpet), dining table with four Amateur Tennis Tournament ID: 59345 friendly, and experienced Japanese language Canon Standard Zoom Lens ID: 59319 revolving chairs, side stool, side table, phone, Tokyo tennis players! Join our 2010 ladder teachers offer private / small group lessons.Les- Toyoto Harrier for ¥500,000 ID: 58251 Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L Standard Zoom double bed with mattress, full length wall mirror challenger tournament in central Tokyo, from son fee negotiable from ¥2,200/hour (at teacher’s We are relocating to Australia and would like to Lens. See details at www.amazon.com/ (pins can hold firmly), beautiful tatami carpet September to December. Any player with match home) or ¥2,700/hour (at other places). Email sell our car (Toyota Harrier) March 2000 model, Canon-24-70mm-2-8L-Standard-Cameras/dp/ with two cushions. Drop me an email at sayo- or tournament experience at amateur level is [email protected], call 03-3918-0876 or 044- 3L, 2WD, navigation system (original Japanese B00009R6WT/ref=pd_bxgy_p_text_b. Price on [email protected]. welcome. Free entry! 855-5039, or see http://ajt.rakurakuhp.net. CD by Toyota), ETC, silver color, 71K mileage and Amazon: $1,300. I am selling for $1,000 (or the tax paid, shaken until October 2011, in excellent equivalent in yen). Less than six months old. No Single Sofa Chair ID: 58964 Punching Bag for Cheap ID: 59333 Pet Services condition for ¥500,000. If interested please con- damage, includes filter. Single sofa chair, available from September 24 This is a used punching bag that is still in good Dog day care, nutrition course, etiquette course, tact me on 080-3525-4326. in Kawasaki, for ¥4,000. In excellent condition. condition. It is quite heavy. Needs two people dog sitter with door-to-door pick up! Open 365 Sony Vaio DVD Laptop ID: 59310 If interested, contact me on 090-9954-6768 or to carry it. Comes with chain and hook for at- days a year. No cages are used unless specified 1999 Porsche 911 ID: 59336 Sony Vaio laptop, 1Ghz, 40GB, DVD CDRW, Win- [email protected]. taching. ¥1,000 is the price. I can deliver into by the owner. Your dog can enjoy playing with Selling a RHD Porsche 911 (996) six-speed dows XP SP3, MS Office, Power DVD, etc. 100- Tokyo but I would need a little compensation for other dogs all day. Athletic Dog Club is an ideal manual due to family constraints. Clean and 240v. ¥13,000, contact [email protected] or Metal Table on Wheels ID: 59262 my time and fuel. I am in Sagamihara City, just place to make friends! http://adc.pipi.cc. For tidy, 76,000km. Viewings available upon request. 080-6657-6161. Metal table, size is 45 x 45 x 65 cm high. Very good out side of Tokyo. Pick up if preferred. Contact more information please call 03-3327-1003. Asking price ¥2,995,000 obo. condition, many other items for sale here: www. 090-3918-2406. Toshiba DVD Laptop ID: 59308 tinyurl.com/27yyp53. Email allterraindave@ho- 2001 Toyota RAV4 ID: 58805 Toshiba notebook, fast Celeron M processor, DVD tmail.com or call 080-4068-1281, available now Snowboard shoes ID: 59165 2001 Toyota RAV4, 55,000km, automatic, I am the CDRW, English, 40GB hard disk, 512MB RAM. for only ¥1,000, pick up only from Tsunashima. Snowboard shoes, I believe US size 8 but trying first owner, no accidents, is in very good condi- Windows XP Pro, MS Office, 100-240v, very fast them on is a must. ¥1,500, email jp4sale@live. tion, as new. Price $3,200. and reliable. ¥16,000, contact 080-6657-6161 or Portable Baby Girl’s Crib ID: 59156 com for photos. [email protected]. Removable full-size bassinet with quilted bum- Toyota Harrier 4WD ID: 58307 per pad provides cozy nap-time space. Quilted Surfboard, 190 x 48 x 6cm ID: 59068 For ¥1,390,000. Available from mid-September. Sharp Aquos LCD and Stand ID: 59181 mattress pad for baby’s comfort, enhanced SSP Surfboard, 190 x 48 x 6 cm (190 equals 6”2’), Car is in excellent condition and has been well Sharp Aquos LC-37GX2W full HD TV and TV electronics unit entertains and soothes with two- short board, with integrated fins and grip pad. Health and Life Insurance maintained with regular service and inspec- stand.1 LAN port 10/100, 2 I-LINK ports, 1 Control speed mattress mounted vibration, five classical Has three little dings that need to be fixed, or Are you prepared for an emergency? Viva Vida tions. Right handed drive, five-doors, 2366cc port (RS-232C). songs, and soothing nature sounds. just put some tape on it and go for it, as they are Medical Life delivers security to foreigners gas engine (160ps(118kW)/5600rpm), four gear tiny. If you need fixing stuff (resin, etc.) I have the and foreign students living in Japan. Up to 100 automatic transmission, wheel base 2,615 mm, Apple Airport Extreme ID: 59072 Black Desk ID: 59053 perfect repair kit for you (¥3,500 extra). The board percent coverage of medical expenses at a rea- auto climate control, ETC (Electronic Toll Col- Airport Extreme. Little used. Excellent condition, Black Desk with three drawers and side board. goes for ¥29,000. No leash included. Pick up is sonable cost. Short term and long term plans lection System), Toyota’s original built-in DVD 1.5 years old, pre gigabit Ethernet. Great for home office or den. In very good condi- in Shinjuku area, closest station is Shin-Okubo. available. Inquire now: www.vivavida.net, or car navigation (DVD upgraded in the beginning of tion. Measurements: desk W140cm x D70cm No delivery possible. Please contact 080-3016- call 0120-656-684 (toll free) or 080-4058-7485 2010 with latest data). Five disc CD changer with Toshiba Dynabook ID: 59127 x H70-74cm (adjustable). Three drawers on 6143 or [email protected] and we (Softbank). We speak English, Portuguese, AM/FM radio, ABS. Front and side airbags, power Toshiba Dynabook, Pentium M, light and portable, wheels W40cm x D47cm x H62cm. Side board on can arrange a meeting. Spanish, Tagalog and Chinese. windows, child locks, original Toyota Harrier 12” display, 40GB, 512MB RAM, ¥17,000. Con- wheels W56cm x D33cm x H62cm. Legs can eas- mats replaced recently. tact 080-6657-6161 or [email protected]. ily be disassembled for easy transport. Retails for ¥20,000, selling for ¥4,000. Honda Odyssey ID: 58286 HOUSING 1996 Honda Odyssey, 80,000km, six-seat Single Bed ID: 58963 hatchback, auto everything, navigation system, HOUSEHOLD Single bed, available from September 24. House for Rent in Minami Kashiwa ID: 58842 AM/FM/CD changer, air conditioning, tinted rear ¥5,000, in Kawasaki. In excellent condition. If 4LK, two washrooms, one bathroom in a three- windows, shaken through October 2011. Good Hot Sandwich Maker ID: 59339 interested contact me on 090-9954-6768 or year-old, two floor house in Minami Kashiwa. condition internally, some dents and scratches Twinbird toaster and hot sandwich maker. [email protected]. Fiftten minute walk to JR Joban Chiyoda line. One outside. Needs a power steering hose, other- Used a few times, it is like new and in its original train ride into Tokyo city. The house is furnished wise in great condition. Will accompany you to package. Selling for ¥2,500. Please pick up at with beds in each room, fridge, sofa, dinning change the title. ¥150,000 obo. Contact David@ Ookayama (Meguro-ku) or Ishikawadai (Ota-ku). table/chairs, and one air conditioner in the living ayurvedajapan.com. MUSIC room. Parking space available. ¥140,000/month, Washing Machine with Dryer ID: 59293 two months deposit. See photos at www.airbnb. Save An Animal Today Isuzu Truck KK-NKR 66EA ID: 58228 I am leaving Japan soon, so I want to sell my good Yamaha PSR-E303 Full-Size Keyboard com/rooms/2699. Please feel free to contact for Adopt or sponsor orphaned dogs, cats, and other Isuzu Elf truck KK- NKR 66 EA type, engine 41F1, washing machine (with dryer) for just ¥5,000. ID:58651 Touch sensitive keys, MIDI out/in, details: [email protected]. animals rescued both in Tokyo and Osaka at Animal manual, 2001 model, 127,000km, diesel. Length If you want it please contact me at msnodet@ build-in reverb and chorus effects, 61 keys, 482 Refuge Kansai. ARK animals need you! To adopt or 8m, air conditioning, power steering. ¥800,000. yahoo.com. built-in sounds. Great little keyboard, recently Asagaya Park House, Shinjuku ID: 58347 foster a pet, please email [email protected] or Good condition. If you need more details please purchased a Cakewalk studio keyboard, so don’t Six-mat room with big windows available August call 050-1557-2763. www.arkbark.net. contact me. If you want to buy or sell any type Microwave ID: 59267 need it anymore. ¥10,000. 31 in our nice and cozy four-bedroom house in of vehicles or machines please feel free to Microwave for ¥2,000. Pick up from Tsunashima, Minami Asagaya/Ogikubo. Six-mat tatami room, contact my mobile on 090-1432-9143 or email which is ten minutes north of Yokohama on the Fernandes Mini Guitars ID: 58236 private and furnished. Only ¥49,000/month. [email protected]. Toyoko line. Email [email protected] Japanese rock band Buck Tick 20th anniversary col- Share the utilities with the housemates. ¥30,000 WANTED or call 080-4068-1281. lectors’ edition guitars, in hard case with amp. Never deposit. Contact 080-5527-5093. played, immaculate condition, pick up Hamadayama Vocalist Needs a Band ID: 59113 Steam Iron ID: 59202 or any station on the Yamanote line ¥25,000. Canadian vocalist looking to join or start a band around ELECTRONICS In good condition. Only ¥1,500. Pick up at Ikega- Yokohama. I’m into indie, punk and metal music. mi, Ookayama, Kamata or the surrounding area. Electric Guitar with Speaker ID: 58165 SERVICES For fun or for real. Contact [email protected]. Selling Nintendo DSi ID: 59372 Hardly used and still like new (very few I bought it last week for my wife to study Japa- Toshiba Toaster ID: 59133 scratches). Comes with the speaker, case and Dentistry Want a Bicycle ID: 58295 nese. But now I changed my mind, I want to sell Works great for bread toasting, pizza reheating, cables. Please check the pics here: http:// Dr. Nakashima from the Nakashima Dental Office I am looking for decently priced bicycle that can it for ¥10,000 or best offer. 2GB SD memory, and or cookie making. Can send it to you by courier picasaweb.google.com/konamivico/Gui- has been serving the international community in be delivered near by Shinagawa or within 5km some learning Japanese software is available. or deliver it in person at JR Tokyo, Shinagawa or tar#5500104240271372882. Pick up in Nishisu- Tokyo for more that 24 years. Dr. Nakashima spe- thereof. Also should be able to transfer cycle Call me on 080-3590-3698. Yokohama stations—only ¥750. gamo, Toshima-ku, Tokyo. cializes in microscopic general dentistry. He has license to my name.

20 WEEKENDER Bulletin Board

Hall Staff ID: 8777 JOBS International bar and restaurant management company is hiring qualified and experienced floor/ https://jobs.gaijinpot.com/weekender hall servers and sellers. Must have an energetic and can-do attitude. English and Japanese conver- Russian Speaking Sales Executive ID: 35048 sation skills required. Must have a valid visa. SBT Co., Ltd. is hiring an outbound sales executive. Connect us with customers of Rus- Bowling Attendant ID: 36753 sian speaking nations to export pre-owned Keep keglers in top form at a vibrant, state-of- vehicles. The more you call, the more you will the-art bowling center. Duties include register- sell. Our strategy of sales is not dependent on ing bowlers, handling balls and rental equip- skills. We provide skills to everyone equally ment, and preparing the lanes. Requirements: by our training system. Everything is up to interest in bowling, excellent hospitality skills, your passion for excellence. upper Intermediate-level English, elementary- level Japanese, PC skills (Word). Working Fitness Attendant ID: 36755 schedule: Three to five days/week (including Assist users with their workout regimens, show weekends/national holidays), seven to eight them how to use the spectrum of cutting-edge hours/day between 10am and 9pm. Hourly wage: technology equipment, and make sure the fit- approx. ¥1,100 (the actual amount will be decided ness center runs smoothly and safely. Respon- based on your skills and experience). Expected sible for the safe running of the fitness center, start day: December 2010. assisting members with their fitness programs. Requirements: certification from a recognized Child Care Staff (After-School & Pre-School fitness association or university degree in teacher) ID: 25782 related field; CPR, first aid, AED certification; Kids Duo is a new type of school which provides strong hospitality skills; upper intermediate after-school care and pre-school programs for level English (BULATS 3~); upper intermediate children aged between four and ten in a com- level Japanese (must be able to read Japanese, fortable English-speaking environment. With should be able to deal with customers on the our mix of both native English speakers and phone, negotiate prices with vendors and bilingual staff, we aim to make a relaxed and solve customers complaints); PC skills (Word, friendly atmosphere for the children here at Kids Excel). Working schedule: five days/week (in- Duo, whilst encouraging them to speak, listen, cluding weekends/national holidays), seven and interact in English. This is the perfect job for to eight hours/day between 6am and 10:30pm those who love to spend time with kids! Work- Hourly wage: approx. ¥1,200. ing Hours: pre-school 9am–7pm / after-school 1:30–7pm (three hours or more a day, over twice a Web Programmer (Developer) ID: 36757 week). Qualifications: teacher’s license for nurs- Development, management and adding function ery school, kindergarten or elementary school of our web software and internet services (100 (any childcare license is preferable), experience www.askcaroline.com percent self-developed product). Creation of working at pre-school, after-school or English CGI applications for our internet services such conversation school is welcome. as VPS, blogs, etc. Production of interesting applications and games that will run in blogs, etc. Maintenance of Linux servers. Other related office work. Required qualifications: bachelor’s degree, valid engineer visa holder (with more than six months remaining); oral and written communication skills in English (native level); experienced programming skills (one of C, C++, C#, PHP, JavaApplet); database (MySQL) skills. Salary: ¥200,000–¥350,000 monthly (actual Bartenders and Floor Staff amount will vary by candidate’s skill, experience, Mayahuel, the new truly Mexican Premium Te- English and Japanese ability). quila and Mezcal bar, opening soon in Roppongi is looking for Bar Tenders and Floor Staff for its grand opening on September 3rd. For details, please send your information to Marco at jobs@ FREE PARTY IN SEPTEMBER

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WEEKENDER 21 Real Estate Sangenjaya ¥120,000/month

Sangenjaya Castle Argyle is located just 10 minutes on foot from Sangenjaya station. This 20m2 apartment is cozy and welcoming, and includes amenities such as a TV, internet connection, electric stove, dishes, a fridge, toaster, microwave, and washing machine. The area is great for restaurants and izakayas and is a short bike ride from Shibuya station.

For more information contact Sakura House. Tel: 03-5330-5250 www.sakura-house.com

Property Search www.weekenderjapan.com/apartmentsearch

22 WEEKENDER // // Real Estate Hiroo ¥165,000–¥550,000/month

Located in the heart of Tokyo’s international community just four minutes on foot from Hiroo station, the serviced apartments by Azabu Court are convenient and reasonably priced. A variety of units are available, ranging in size from standard studios (20–22m2) to two bedrooms (72m2). Fully furnished and serviced with all the modern amenities.

For more information please contact Azabu Court Apartments. Tel: 03-3446-8610 [email protected]

Meguro ¥400,000–¥880,000

Located in a wooded area between Meguro and Ebisu stations, Bird Park is the winner of many prestigious design awards due to its innovative living concepts. Various rooms are available, each one with its own theme, such as the Theater House (with a state-of-the-art entertainment room), the Tea House (with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony room), and the Library House (with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves).

For more information please contact R.A. Asset Management. Tel: 03-5771-2271 www.birdpark.jp

To search for more properties in Tokyo, go to //www.weekenderjapan.com/apartmentsearch WEEKENDER 23 Parties, People & Places

THEPakistani LAST National AIRBENDER Day Celebration PARTY

Actors Jackson Rathbone Actor Yasuhisa Fukuhara and Jackson Rathbone with fans and Haruki Narimiya Jackson Rathbone Andresa and Jade

Jin Akanishi and film director Paramount president Andrew Cripps, Bill Hersey with Japanese celebrities M. Night Shyamalan Paramount’s Peter Petersson, Leo and Jin Akanishi and Mr. and Mrs. Atinhay

SAYONARA TO THE ARGENTINE AMBASSADOR

Politician Tenkoku Sonoda and Jamaican Vietnamese Ambassador Phu Binh Holy Sees Archibishop Alberto Bottari de Ambassador Claudia Barnes Nguyen, his wife Le Thieu Ngan, and Castello, and Shigejiro and Fumiko Tottori Hisanaga and Takako Shimazu

Outgoing Argentine Ambassador Daniel Norma Polski, Belgian Ambassador Johan Brazilian dancer Romana Santos, Martha Dziewezo Polski, Coca-Cola Japan president Maricou, and his wife Dierick Kathleen Ruiz Cabanas, Norma Polski, and Colombian Daniel H. Sayre, and his wife Ilaana Ambassador Patricia Cardenas

24 WEEKENDER Parties, People & Places PARTIES PEOPLE & PLACES WITH BILL HERSEY

Even with the super hot weather and so many people out of town for much of August, old Edo stays busy. There have been a lot of stars here with Paramount, Sony and Warner Brothers to promote the major distributors’ summer releases and, Creativeman brought in a long list of the world’s top musicians and bands for the huge Summer Sonic festival. I heard that the Fuji Rock festival attracted a record crowd this year, and there have been a dozen or so smaller music festivals (reggae, Hawaiian, Brazilian, Cuban, etc.) as well. In addition to all that, there are several traditional events that include almost a week off for obon, during which time our Japanese friends pay their respects to friends and relatives who have passed away. On the more colorful side, Japan has some of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the world. If all goes as planned, I’ll view the Sumida River fireworks from my friend Tsukasa Shiga’s four bedroom Italian yacht at a prime spot under the Rainbow Bridge. That, my friends, is an awesome experience. Tokyo always has so much to offer, and I do hope you and yours enjoy some of the many things there are to do here during late August and early September.

After almost ten years of driving my nearly 14-year-old red Beamer convertible all over Tokyo, I followed my friends’ advice and changed cars. Don’t get me wrong, I loved my BMW, but as with most cars after too many years, things started to happen and maintenance costs just got to be too much. I needed a change, and I really appreciated several friends going out of their way to try and find something that I thought fit my image and that I could afford. One of our city’s most reliable used car dealers, Mick Lay, showed up at my house in a silver BMW convertible one morning. It was nice, but somehow just wasn’t what I wanted. I’m glad I waited, as Mick kept looking and showed up a week later in a beautiful, shiny, silver Toyota Soarer. The car is in mint condition and has an all red leather interior, a metal roof that

WEEKENDER 25 Parties, People & Places

SENEGAL NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION

Cuban Ambassador Jose Fernandez Moroccan Ambassador Samir Arrour, Paul Jeffers of fashion company Jun Rodriguez, Senegalese Ambassador Philippine Ambassador Domingo Siazon, Ashida and Madeline Umewaka Gabriel Sar, Cote D’Ivoire Ambassador politician Tetsuro Yano, and Vietnamese Liliane Boa, and Christine Sar Ambassador Phu Binh Nguyen

SOUTH AFRICA JAPAN CELEBRATION

Akio and Emiko Matsuzaki with Cuban South African singer Prisca Molota, South South African Ambassador Gert Grobler and Ambassador Jose Fernandez Rodriguez African Minister Counsellor N. Malefane, Japanese saxophonist Sadao Watanabe and her daughters Naledi and Tumi

goes down, and all kinds of fun gadgets (parking sensors, a Sayonara to the navigation system, CD and MD players, etc.). The 4.3 liter engine Argentine Ambassador is quiet and powerful. I know that Toyota, like many other car companies, has had problems, but I do feel they were really After six years in Japan, another popular couple, Argentine ahead of the times when they designed and manufactured the Ambassador Daniel Polski and his wife Norma, have returned Soarer. I love my car and thank Mick for his time and effort on my home to beautiful Buenos Aires. Prior to their departure they part. He even got me my old license plate number, 77 77, and I hosted their country’s national day celebration, as well as an know that wasn’t easy. exciting sayonara party that featured live Argentinean music and dance. This included sexy, sultry tango and dynamic gaucho dances. The Polskis kept very busy while they were in Japan. The ambassador had all his official duties, and Norma, who was The Last Airbender Party involved in all kinds of charity activities, served as president of ILBS for one term. I really hope to visit these good friends in A star studded crowd showed up at the New Lex to meet actor Argentina in the not too distant future. Meanwhile, I wish them Jackson Rathbone and director M. Night Shyamalan, who were all the best back home. in Japan with Paramount to promote the film The Last Airbender. Both of the special guests were really down to earth, outgoing and fun. Guests there that night included pop star Jin Akanishi, Senegalese National Day who has left Johny Jimusho’s group Kat-Tun and is pursuing a Celebration solo career. His recent concert in LA drew in 2000 fans, and in September he’ll be doing concerts in about eight cities across For their last big party in Japan, Senegalese Ambassador Gabriel the US. I’m happy to see him doing so well. He’s a talented, Sar and his wife Christine went all out to make their national hardworking, nice guy who deserves his success. Jin’s younger day and sayonara party a very special event. In addition to being brother Leo, who’s a film and stage actor, is also a great guy. My Senegal’s 50th anniversary, it was also the 50th anniversary thanks to Paramount’s Kinomoto-san, who helped us put the fun of the country’s diplomatic relations with Japan. The popular and interesting evening together. couple spent nine years in Japan, and recently returned home,

26 WEEKENDER Parties, People & Places

where Gabriel will go into private business. Many of the Sars’ the entrance to the venue was very interesting. Members of the friends wore beautiful national costumes that day and really South African chamber of commerce all joined in making the made it a colorful event. The New Otani food and beverage party the big success that it was. It was also great seeing top department had worked with the Senegalese embassy chefs, musician Sadao Watanabe there. He’s visited South Africa often, and the bountiful buffet included many African specialities. The and the country, its people and music have influenced the work Sars are very special friends who always went out of their way of Japan’s legendary saxophone player. to make sure I was invited to many entertaining African events. Like all who knew them, I will really miss this special couple. People

South Africa It was really nice running into Regina Doi, Sister Mila and Sandra Japan Celebration Mori at the Hilton Tokyo after their recent lunch there. It was a sayonara for Sister Silva, who will be returning to the Philippines As at any South African happening, there were a lot of energetic after 40 years in Japan. She was with the St. Ignatius Church here song and dance performances at the beautiful Meiji Kaikan for 25 of the 40 years, and will always be remembered for her when South African Ambassador Gert Grobler and his staff kindness, help and service. All the best to her back home. hosted a lively and totally enjoyable celebration on the occasion of South Africa’s 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations with When I was at the Irish ambassador’s residence recently, his wife Japan. One of the highlights of the program was Gert’s very Margaret, who’s really a special lady and a special friend, told me inspirational speech about his country, the World Cup, and the that another special lady, Sister Jennie O’Sullivan, will be returning many changes going on in South Africa today. The buffet was to Ireland after 75 years in Japan. I’m happy to report that she is still excellent, and an exhibition of South African products set up at very genki, and keeps busy doing good things for others.

Dr. Nadia El Borai of Egypt Konomi Tamada and Anri Schroff Film producer Eric Nyari and location manager Akio Arima

I n & A round

Thai Airways sales manager Iwao Kawabe Former Hilton PR Mihoko Kobayashi, Regina Doi, Sister Mila, and Sandra Mori at the Thai festival in Yoyogi Park now Koike. Congratulations after a sayonara lunch for Sister Mila on her recent marriage.

WEEKENDER 27 F a m i l i e s Beyond Fast Food: Eating

Ph ot Out with Kids o b y J oe L ew in Tokyo is

by Aimee Weinstein

The omnipresent arguments between parents and kids regarding food and eating go back for generations. For non-Japanese eating in Tokyo, however, sometimes the restaurant choices and menus can be quite a challenge. Parenting Tips: The lucky thing about living and eating in Japan is that most Japa- Getting Kids to Bite nese restaurants welcome children. The staff is often excited that Westerners, in particular, are interested in trying the food, and waiters look to please their customers in any way possible. My kids, 1. Tell kids that you’re on an adventure—an eating Bailey, age 11 and Sydney, age 8, have learned to experiment with adventure—and that trying new foods is part of the fun. eating and the various cuisines open to them. They didn’t start out that way, however; their attitudes developed over time. 2. Pick foods that resemble things your kids already eat; start with milder flavors first.

Ideally, one should introduce kids to the ins and outs of Japanese 3. Sauces and foods that are mixed together sometimes eating slowly. One fun place to eat is Sushi To Dai For in Azabu Juban. make kids nervous, so try to order things that Opened in late December 2009, the restaurant originated in Cali- appeal to the kids’ eyes as well as palates. fornia, so the tastes are a mixture of Japanese ingredients and pre- 4. Pick restaurants that interest both parents sentation with a Californian flair. For example, my kids enjoy a roll and kids so everyone is happy! called the ‘mojo-jo-jo,’ which is named after an American cartoon character. It contains fish, but the roll itself is fried and has yummy 5. If at first you don’t succeed, keep trying! Don’t give crunchies all around the plate and on top of it. Another roll we enjoy up just because your kids won’t eat at one place. is the ‘Darth Vader,’ which also has a hint of fish, but enough sauce Pick another spot and give it another go. and rice and nori to hide the healthy stuff so the kids will enjoy the 6. Maturity counts, so if you start the kids young, they’ll be experience. Our family enjoys sitting up at the sushi bar so the kids used to trying new things by the time they’re older. can watch their meal being prepared. The owner and chef enjoys bantering with the kids, which makes them feel special. With a little prodding and encouragement from their parents and the chef, my children have been able to branch out from the non-traditional Cali- fornia-type sushi to the more traditionally Japanese menu offerings. 28 WEEKENDER // // F a m i l i e s

The best part about Sushi to Dai For is that it caters beautifully to the adults as well. There are traditional maki rolls, but also sashimi and nigiri as well. The restaurant also boasts a full bar and is open late.

Another great choice with kids is the ever-present tempura. Our favorite is Mikawa, with its smaller restaurant branch in Roppongi Hills, across the plaza from Enoteca and above the Mini dealer. There are about a dozen seats at the bar and then two small tatami-floored tables. Mikawa is a family-owned and run business, so they treat everyone who enters as a member of that family. The mama-san, who greets guests and serves, loves when we bring the children into her restaurant. There is a traditional, seasonal omakase menu that is big enough for the kids to easily share. This is another place where the kids love watching the chef from the counter as he clicks his long, wooden cooking chopsticks together before picking the tasty morsels out of the sizzling wok full of oil that boils on the lowest heat possible to cook the food. I am not sure how it happens, but at Tokyo Midtown Medical Center Mikawa, somehow the tempura ends up tasting light. There is not a Tokyo Midtown Clinic is Japan’s rst afliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine International, bit of grease falling off the food and there is no heaviness in the belly the premier medical institution in the U.S. We have an outpatient with various departments, after the meal. Health Screening Center, medical aesthetic clinic and dental clinic. We provide total health support for our patients.

The kids love watching the chef from the counter as he clicks his long, wooden All doctors, many other medical staff and concierge will support you in English. cooking chopsticks Tel: 03-5413-0080 Tokyo Midtown Medical Center Midtown Tower 6F, together before picking Akasaka 9-7-1, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-6206 the tasty morsels out of the sizzling wok.

Chinese food is always a good option with kids, but some of the places that kids prefer for the plainer fare don’t always appeal to the adults who bring them there. Our favorite Chinese restaurant is called Hutong of Beijing, and it’s located at the bottom of Keya- kizaka near Roppongi Hills. The charm of this particular restaurant is that the sauce of every dish is different. The kids are introduced to many seemingly authentic different tastes all in one place. For example, the sweet and sour pork is not fried, but broiled until it’s so tender that it falls apart with a fork, and served with a thick, dark hoisin sauce that the kids love. The fried rice has little to no oil in it, and the steamed gyoza have a hint of leek flavoring that we all enjoy. Hutong of Beijing has a particularly casual atmosphere with its wooden floors and chopsticks right on the table, so the kids feel freer than in other places to which we take them. I don’t worry if they make a little noise or bring out their drawing pads to put on the table as the adults finish their meals. Between the food and the surround- ings, it’s a place the whole family enjoys.

Eating out ethnically in Tokyo with children does not have to be a trial. The trick is to find places that are kid-friendly but also cater to adult needs. The usual fast food or pasta joints are always available, but if you want to appeal to everyone in the family, keep your eyes open for options that abound around you.

For more information for families in Tokyo, go to //www.weekenderjapan.com/families WEEKENDER 29 P r o d u c t s All photos courtesy of their respective brands or retailers

The Lap of Luxury

by Stephen Parker

30 WEEKENDER // // P r o d u c t s

one: Italian menswear brand Ermenegildo Zegna is celebrating its centenary this four: These days, nearly everyone uses social networks and smart phones to year, exactly 100 years after Ermenegildo himself first founded the company’s wool organize their contacts, but the custom of exchanging real name cards remains an mill. To commemorate the occasion, the brand has launched a special range, including important part of communication. Interestingly, as more people spend their lives a fountain pen, cufflinks and watch. This exquisite gold timepiece created by haute online, handmade products are also becoming more valued. The stationery experts horologist Girard-Perregaux pays homage to the historical brand, as Ermenegildo’s at Winged Wheel produce a range of goods, including business cards, letterhead and father was a watchmaker by trade. Only 100 limited edition timepieces are being made cards for every occasion, printed on 100 percent cotton paper. If you want to make your for customers around the world, so reserve your’s soon before the range sells out. communications stand out, invest in some of these.

Ermenegildo Zegna Shinjuku (www.zegna.com), ¥3,255,000. Winged Wheel stores (www.winged-wheel.co.jp), ¥3,500 for a set of 30.

two: “An odor as simple and beautiful as the air we breathe,” is what Issey Miyake five: Just because you have poor eyesight, doesn’t mean you have to wear boring, aimed for with the creation of his company’s new scent. The fragrance, which will be uncool frames! Japanese eyeglass chain Lunettes du Jura has been in operation since launched on August 27, was created in conjunction with top perfumer and biochemist 1921, bringing some of Europe’s most unique and unusual eyewear to Japan. It now Annick Menardo. Every tiny detail from the graphics on the packaging to the weight of carry’s what is possibly the country’s biggest selection of glasses, including these the glass bottle screams Miyake quality, and the delicate floral and jasmine aromas quirky, colorful frames by Cordoba. Eyewear no longer has to be utilitarian—buy a express true femininity. range of options and wear a different pair each day to match your mood and clothing.

Issey Miyake stores (www.isseymiyakeparfums.com) and fine fragrance counters Lunettes du Jura (www.jurajura.jp), ¥44,100. (from Aug 27), ¥9,450 for 40ml, ¥13,125 for 80ml.

three: Founded in 1827, French jewelry firm Mauboussin has been creating strikingly six: For discerning businessmen, nothing beats the feeling of wearing an order-made beautiful rings, necklaces and earrings for nearly two centuries. The company is known shirt, with every aspect fully customized to your own body. Shirt maker Mr. Ito perfected for using colorful, exotic stones paired with sparkling diamonds for maximum impact. his craft for years in Paris, and now works out of an unassuming store in Akasaka. His This ring is a part of the “Ma Princesse D’Amour” (my princess of love) collection, and clients describe him as having ‘hands of God,’ due to the perfection to which he works. contains a large, pale purple rose de France amethyst, accented by a amethyst and The bespoke fit and choice of fabrics and buttons set his shirts a cut above all mass diamond pavé band. produced high-street garments.

Mauboussin Ginza (www.mauboussin.com), ¥136,500. S. Solombrino Shop (www.sosakuya.co.jp/brand/s_solombrino.html), from ¥31,500.

5 6

For more information on cool products available in Tokyo, go to //www.weekenderjapan.com/products WEEKENDER 31 // Healthy & Responsible Living Body Balance Mind Matters Photo by sushicam So where does this leave foreigners in Japan who are experiencing emotional and mental difficulties, suffer from a mental illness, or have thought about suicide? There are good telephone hotlines, as well as counseling and psychiatric services, available in and around Tokyo. The links below will provide further detailed information on how to speak to someone over the phone, make an appointment, or what to do in the case of a mental health emergency.

It is vital to remember that depression and mental health issues are more prevalent than most realize. Often when someone feels that he or she can’t talk to a family member or friend, it is easier to connect with a counselor anonymously via the phone.

Working and living abroad, particularly in a country like Japan where foreigners must adhere to specific cultural and behavioral expectations within their professional and personal lives, can be more stressful than first thought. It is just as important to have a healthy mind as it is a healthy by Elisabeth Lambert body. Sometimes all it takes is a good diet and regular exercise; sometimes it takes a little outside help. Last month, Japan’s Health Ministry reported that Japanese women had the longest life expectancy in the world for the 25th year in a row, with the average life span being 86.44 years in 2009. While much has been made of this fact, perhaps more attention should be focused on why the gap Japan is home to one suicide every between the life expectancy of Japanese women and that of Japanese men is increasing. Interestingly enough, this gap widened last year by 16 minutes, leaving it with one of the 0.09 percent to 6.85 years. While Japanese men have the fourth highest life expectancy in the world at 79.59 years, high suicide rates amongst the highest suicide rates in the world.

country’s young men are impacting it significantly. Photo by Lazysoul

According to the National Police Agency, 32,845 people committed suicide last year, with over 70 percent of them being men. This translates into one suicide every 16 minutes, leaving Japan with one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Police say that men carry more stress, and the state of the country’s economy, along with big job losses that followed the global financial crisis are mostly to blame. However, underlying mental health issues that often act as the catalyst to suicide are largely ignored both statistically and on a more personal level by family, due to the shame associated with them—even though a 2008 study by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor found that 24 percent of Japanese suffer from mental health problems.

It doesn’t help that Japanese culture dictates that people, particularly men, keep personal dilemmas to themselves, and that mental health problems aren’t widely recognized or understood in the general community. This, Tokyo English Life Line coupled with the fact that suicide—not a criminalized act in Japan—is often Free anonymous telephone counseling available 9am–11pm daily perceived as an honorable act, only serves to compound the problem. www.telljp.com Tel: 03-5774-0992

The government is attempting to deal with Japan’s suicide problem. The International Mental Health Professionals Japan Nemureteimasuka? (Are you sleeping OK?) suicide prevention campaign www.imhpj.org was recently launched on television commercials and posters with the message, “If you haven’t been sleeping properly for two weeks or more, you Tokyo Meguro Counseling Centre may be depressed, and liable to commit suicide,” followed by encouraging www.megurocounseling.com those affected to see a doctor. Still, critics of the campaign have suggested that the government should be more concerned with changing the social stigma surrounding mental health in order to adequately address the issue.

For more information on eco-friendly lifestyles in Tokyo, go to 32 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com/tokyoeco // Healthy & Responsible Living

Sustainable_Business: by Pankaj Arora The Green Road Photo by charmainezoe

The next time you go for your iced latte at Starbucks, observe the ice practices. This leads to another issue of ‘green fatigue,’ which refers melting away in the glass. As you sit sipping away at your drink, two to consumers getting tired of the fake green claims. So the question oxygen molecules befriend a carbon molecule, forming a potent gas remains: what does it take for a nation or a company to be truly green? that threatens to liquefy all of the ice not only in your glass but all over the world. Our love-hate relationship with water will come to an end if Joel Makower, the author of various books on green evolution, says that we don’t lower the earth’s thermostat sooner rather than later. it takes real understanding of the full impacts of whatever we do—not just what happens inside the office or the factory gates, but the bigger In China and India the consumption of resources has reached such a picture. For example, major impacts of a pair of Levis 501 jeans have stupendous rate that it would take six earths to sustain and fulfill those nothing to do with what Levis does. The real damage comes from desires. Scientists have even put a monetary value on the services that growing the cotton and washing the garments at home. nature provides: about $35 trillion per year. Already we have not only eaten into the interest, or replenishment, of this amount, but also the Al Gore painted a picture of the world gone all wrong with his film An principal capital. And it reduces with each passing year. The model of Inconvenient Truth, but imagine a world gone right. Reducing waste, pol- consumerism put forth by the developed world for the developing world luting less and improving efficiency not only makes green sense, it also to follow has begun to backfire. Forty percent of humanity now wants to makes good business sense. It is the fundamental shift in how business live like those in the developed world, and it’s just not possible. is conducted moving from the fringes to the mainstream. Abundance is one thing, prudence is another. So what do we do about it? The solution in part lies in the ‘green road,’ or giving people a model of sustainability to follow. But it is a tough Everyone wants a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, and the one. Industries like clean tech and renewable energy are showing us green road doesn’t have to be one of scrimping and martyrdom. the path to that road. Sustainability issues have certainly seeped into Granted, there is confusion when treading uncharted waters, such the consciousness of the business community, but a lack of standards, as what is green and what is not, and whether to use a paper bag or both at the product level and the business level, makes the issue very a plastic one. But one thing is a given: the green road can be what we complex. It also creates a problem of ‘green washing,’ which is when choose it to be: the panacea for the current economic and humani- companies try to green-up their image by falsely representing their tarian ills, or a road to nowhere.

// WEEKENDER 33 To see more Weekender archives and full issues, go to 34 WEEKENDER www.weekenderjapan.com/archives // Build your nancial security through Japan property purchases by calling "Mr. Yen Loans", Richard Henderson and his team, on 03-3241-8923 or email UK YenLoans@nabasia. com For more information visit us at Australia www.nabasia.co.jp New Zealand

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