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tokyo MAY 2013 weekenderJapan’s number one English language magazine

OPINION A PRINCESS IN DISTRESS

JAPAN IN AFRICA TICAD RETURNS TO YOKOHAMA

SOUNDS OF THE SUMMER A GUIDE TO 2013’S TOP MUSIC FESTIVALS

INTERVIEW TAO OKAMOTO FROM COVER STAR TO HOLLYWOOD MARVEL

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Top news from Asia Daily Wire, business news, Okinawa Movie Festival, upcoming events and more... Your Move. Our World.

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Please visit www.asiantigers-japan.com or contact us at [email protected] Customer Hotline: 03-6402-2371 Your Move. Our World. MAY 2013 CONTENTS 14

C TAO OKAMOTO M We met the Japanese cover girl who has Y landed a major Hollywood role.

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Move Management – office, households, Tenancy Management SUMMER SOUNDS AFRICA IN JAPAN OKINAWAN Creativity Thinking of hitting any music festivals this Business, trade and entertainment events The islands’ latest gift to the world is an pets, vehicles Family programs year? We took a look at some of the best. showcasing Japan/Africa links. International Movie Festival. Orientation and Cross-cultural programs Departure services Visa and Immigration Storage services Temporary accommodation 7 Asia Daily Wire 28 A Culinary Tour 42 Movies Home and School search A roundup of all the top APAC news of the The home of world-famous beef and some If you like Ryan Gosling, you’re in for past month. Michelin star rejections. quite a month.

Asian Tigers goes to great lengths to ensure the highest quality service. 8 Business News 30 Motoring 44 Agenda A hole in one for Uniqlo and other links Buying and owning a car in Japan may be Top shows and events around Tokyo as To us, every move is unique. between business and sport this month. easier than you think... we head into spring. 10 Opinion 36 People, Parties, Places 46 Back in the Day Please visit www.asiantigers-japan.com or Examining the depression that makes life Bill Hersey thanks the Brits who sent him Why would anyone wear a T-shirt with such so uncomfortable for one public figure. a welcome invite. a crazy slogan on it? contact us at [email protected] Customer Hotline: 03-6402-2371 FROM THE EDITOR

pring is finally here, but we’re already looking forward with some dread to the sweaty summer months and wondering what we’ll fill our weekends with/how we’ll MAY 2013 get out of town. Music festivals can be the highlight of the year for many of us, and seem like a pretty good startingS point... We’ve picked out a few of our favourites and some Publisher Bulbous Cell Media Group of the reasons you might want to start thinking about buying your Chairman Ray Pedersen tickets and booking some Monday mornings off – hopefully there’s something for almost everyone in there. Executive Producer Asi Rinestine On the cover is a face you’ll get used to seeing even more over Editor Matthew Holmes the next few months. Readers who buy Vogue or other such mags Art Director Liam Ramshaw may know Tao Okamoto, but it may well be film fans who’ll be Designer Ayako Fujiwara getting to know her from now on – she’s about to play a big role in Illustrator Liam Akin the latest Marvel movie, The Wolverine, alongside Hugh Jackman. The film is largely set in Japan so there’s sure to be plenty of hype Media Director Kotaro Toda Account Executives Nobu (Nick) Nakazawa over here – an impressive looking fight scene atop a speeding bullet Ohad Elbaz train perked our interest when we watched the trailer... We met Tao Masaya Okamoto this month to find out more about the transition from modeling, her life as a young Japanese girl growing up and working in Europe and Media Consultants Mary Rudow the US and what her future holds. Marketing Ingrid Dubreuil Lastly, we’d like to thank and send best wishes to the students Society Bill Hersey of Takata Senior High School, in Rikuzentakata, who came to Tokyo during their spring break a few weeks ago. The Canadian Chamber Film Christopher O’Keeffe of Commerce here, along with various companies and friends in Tokyo, invited the group to spend a week interning and generally Editorial Associates Vivian Morelli getting a bit of experience while homestaying with families who had Matthew Hernon offered up their spare rooms. That they will each have spent time Henry Watts in quite an international environment will, we hope, have made for Asia Daily Wire Mace Bertumen an even more interesting and inspiring experience and one that will give them added confidence going in to the second new school year IT Manager Nick Adams since many of their friends were so tragically taken away by the Development Manager Stephane Boudoux tsunami in 2011. Cheese Expert Paul Romelot We were really happy to have one young man working in our Finance & Admin Maki Kiriishi office for a few days, and to hear of the rich and varied experiences DBA Iryna Sundutova other companies were able to offer. Hopefully, the students will have both learned from and enjoyed their time here, and the project will continue – we’d love to welcome them back. EST. Corky Alexander, 1970

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weekenderJapan’s number one English language magazine Cover Photo by Koichiro Doi OPINION A PRINCESS IN DISTRESS Follow Tokyo Weekender on Twitter: JAPAN IN AFRICA TICAD RETURNS @weekenderjapan TO YOKOHAMA

SOUNDS OF THE SUMMER A GUIDE TO 2013’S TOP MUSIC FESTIVALS Like us on Facebook:

INTERVIEW TAO OKAMOTO www.facebook.com/tokyo.weekender Fried Sushi by Liam Akin. To see more of Liam’s work check out www.friedsushi.net FROM COVER STAR TO HOLLYWOOD MARVEL ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Top news from Asia Daily Wire, business news, Okinawa Movie Festival, upcoming events and more... w

APRIL 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com ASIA DAILY WIRE | NEWS | 7

sia Daily Wire is your go-to place for all the latest news from across the Asia Pacific region. Covering business, culture, entertainment, Japan court sentences man to sports and breaking news, Asia Daily Wire is updated round the 11 years for piracy clock in real time and picks and chooses the best headlines from A man has been Asources across Asia—doing all the hard work for you. Here is a roundup of jailed for the some of the ADW Editor’s picks from the past month... attempted hijack of a Japanese tanker near Oman in 2011. A Indian man Japan jets Tokyo court convicted the 21-year-old Somali arrested for scrambled 306 national to 11 years for piracy. He was one of selling grandson times to meet four men who tried to seize the Japan-operated on Facebook Chinese aircraft Mitsui OSK Lines tanker but was a juvenile under Japanese law at the time of the incident. Police in India Japan scrambled its arrested a man for air forces a record Bird flu hits kidnapping and selling his newborn grandson number of times to intercept Chinese aircraft Chinese KFC on Facebook. With the help of a nurse and a intruding its airspace in 2012. According to the sales lab assistant, Feroz Khan, 47, took his chance Defense Ministry, the Air Self-Defense Force KFC parent company while his daughter was sleeping and told her dashed jets 567 times in fiscal 2012, with 306 Yum Brands Inc. has the child had died. He then sold the baby to a missions alone intended to intercept Chinese said that publicity local businessman after a deal was struck on aircraft, surpassing the number of times it had to surrounding a new bird flu outbreak in China Facebook, police said. deal with Russian aircraft, 248. outbreak has had “a significant, negative Radioactive US confident it impact” on sales, which saw a 16% drop in traces from N. can intercept N. March. The impact would be reflected in Korean nuke test Korean missile April’s sales results, which will be reported May 10. Yum, which operates about 5,300 found in Japan A top US military stores in China, said it plans to educate Radioactive gases commander consumers. that may have come said the US was from North Korea’s nuclear test in February confident it could intercept a North Korean China basketball have been detected 1,000 kilometers away in missile but said it would only do so to defend player called Japan, a global monitoring body says. While itself and its allies. Admiral Samuel Locklear “scum” for moving it was unusual to detect radioactive gases said the US was “ready” if North Korea to Japan more than seven weeks after a test, the traces attempted a strike and that it had the capability A young athlete who were “consistent with a nuclear fission event”, to thwart a ballistic missile from Pyongyang. formerly played for Vienna-based CBTO said. Philippine China has drawn criticism after apparently South Korean coastguard turning her back on her home country to gang members discovers frozen play for Japan. Li Mingyang, 18, emerged arrested for anteaters with Japanese team Chanson V-Mag, using the Japanese name, Miyuki Sugiyama. China’s extortion Around 400 boxes national youth team coach called her a “scum” Busan police containing frozen of Chinese basketball for her “ungrateful” and arrested three pangolins, or scaly anteaters, have been “unpatriotic” actions. South Korean gangsters for blackmailing found in the hold of a Chinese fishing boat, a local construction firm. A leader of the the Philippine coastguard said. The discovery notorious Seven Star Mob and two others could lead to more charges against 12 were accused of extorting 23.3 billion Chinese men arrested for alleged poaching For all the top news of 2013 or to won worth of land property rights by and bribery. “It is simply deplorable that read more on these stories, visit: blackmailing the firm’s CEO over an alleged they appear to be posing as fishermen to www.asiadailywire.com 38 billion won embezzlement. trade in illegal wildlife,” said a WWF official. 8 | NEWS | BUSINESS & SPORT BUSiNESS SETTING UP CAMP WITH COLEMAN

hen Richard L. Guilfoile joined Coleman in 2000, Wthe “outdoor boom” of the 90s was at an end and fewer people wanted – or could afford – to go camping, meaning less need for the company’s products and “quite a mess.” Now, Guilfoile, President of Cole- man Japan and the Asia Pacific region, says the company is in an excellent position and has had six consecutive years of success. “It was a difficult time when I joined, “ he says, “the bubble economy had imploded and various industries like the fishing and outdoors business started tanking. We’ve gone through a lot of crazy stuff to get to where we are today.” A traditional camping company was not going to survive without campers. “The marketing guys came to me and they had all these figures. They told me that the camping population amongst those aged 14-55 in Japan was just 7% but that the ratio of people who wanted to camp was maybe 70%.” “We had two choices, I thought, ‘we’re either going to have a business, or we’re going to turn off the lights, lock the door and throw the keys in the river and forget about it.’” Guilfoile says his team embarked on a diversification process: “picnic goods, barbecue items, products for the beach and other non-camping gear like backpacks for city use were around 6% of sales. ‘How do we get that to 40%?’ I thought.” “We also quickly realized we needed to move towards Japan specific skewed products.” Considering lifestyles when not camping was a start – small houses means not much storage, meaning products need to be compact. Right now, Guilfoile says, around 55% of Coleman Japan’s goods are considered “non-camping” – in part due to the success of its rucksacks. “My boss would tell you that he sees the Japanese team as the thought leaders in terms of the innovative things that we do and products we bring to the market … people in their marketing team say ‘god I love it, I love it, I wish we could do this’, or, ‘you guys are crazy, how could you do this?’” When taking the model to South Korea in 2005, Coleman faced some challenges. “What I call a heavy camper in Japan will go 12 times but in Korea, maybe 30. Koreans don’t look at weather, Japanese do – they won’t go if it’s going to rain – so they each have different spec/durability requirements.” “It’s all about comfort here. The stuff people pull out of their cars is incredible – you sit down and eat as you would in your own home as opposed to eating a hot dog on a rock. Cooking is pretty serious too, one reason we’re doing good business with what we call our Dutch ovens.” Right now, a neat LED Quad Lantern with four removable panels (“great if the kids need to go to the toilet…”) is Coleman’s top selling product, but it will never stop selling its “heritage product”, the iconic gas lantern. “To our custom- ers, we are the lantern company.” Guilfoile, a camper himself – he cites the Fuji Five Lakes and Izu areas among his favourites – says there is no room for complacency: “We’re looking for ways to appeal to a younger audience, particularly women, and that’s starting to go well. We’ve gone through a little bit of shaking up and doing more free thinking and looking at categories we haven’t worked with much in the past – involving more outside design help too.” “The goal that we are going for in the next two years, to 2015, is to have fewer, but bigger-hit items. It’s easy to have a lot of guppies floating around, and it’s nice, but they are not necessarily adding to the bottom line.”

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com Hole in One for Uniqlo

his determination to become the best golfer in the world.” Interestingly enough Uniqlo was originally thinking ‘locally’ when it targeted Scott. Yanai believed he was “a good fit as an FIGHT NIGHT Australian,” because of “plans to launch in Mel- ROUND 2 ncredibly good foresight or just plain bourne in the near future.” The benefits old-fashioned luck? Whatever it was, of securing his signature, however, will be Top Tokyo Execs lace up their gloves Uniqlo couldn’t have timed the an- felt well beyond his native country. The for the second installment of Executive nouncement of its partnership with Masters is, after-all, seen as the major with Fight Night at the Grand Hyatt Adam Scott better. The same week the greatest exposure for sponsors as it is Ithat he clinched a dramatic play-off win at regularly the tournament with the highest orgive the tenuous link, but another collision of the Masters it was revealed the 32-year-old TV ratings. sport and business (when have two ever been would become a Global Brand Ambassador Millions of people from around the far apart?) on this page this month is the return for the fashion label, a role that will see world tuned in to see Scott – in his Uniqlo of Executive Fight Night, which takes over the him wearing their apparel in all competi- attire – edge out Angel Cabrera on a thrill- Fballroom of the Grand Hyatt on May 24. tions as well as taking part in a number of ing final day on April 14. It was initially The night – “a Vegas-style boxing event that could promotional activities. surprising to see the Australian sporting become a regular hit on the annual Tokyo social calen- It is another major coup for the Japa- the logo as it is hardly a brand known for dar” – is the brainchild of three Tokyo-based business- nese brand, which already has Novak Djok- golf-specific products. men known as the ‘Ginja Ninjas’ and we heard a lot of ovic on its books. While not quite as high- “As a company, we aim to provide profile as the Serbian tennis sensation, clothing that meets the needs of anyone, chatter about their successful first bunch of bouts in No- Scott is undoubtedly one of the world’s anywhere,” says Yanai. “Given its wide- vember, most marketable golfers and his stock will spread following worldwide and accessi- Unfortunately, all tickets and tables have now been have risen significantly following that vic- bility regardless of age, golf is a good match sold, but it’s worth keeping an eye on the website (gin- tory in Augusta. According to Uniqlo’s pres- for us. Our comfortable clothing, including janinjas.com) where some of the fighters and trainers ident, Tadashi Yanai, he ticks all the right polo shirts, chinos, and so on fits the de- are blogging in the run up; might their tales make you boxes: mands of the sport.” want to step into the ring next time? “Our Brand Ambassador initiative There may be a spike in the number of Adam ‘the Landlord’ German, General Manager of targets individuals who are not only suc- golf enthusiasts taking notice of a range of Real Estate Japan K.K (pictured above), writes that he cessful and ambitious in their own right, goods following Scott’s triumph at the Mas- “fell in love with the event,” after sitting ringside last but also socially conscious and driven to ters; the man known as ‘Scotty’ wore vari- year and is now looking forward to being one of the give back to society,” says Yanai. “Beyond ous T-shirts, trousers, belts and apparently main attractions. His blog post, “Why I Want to Fight,” his outstanding athletic ability, Adam is a even their underwear… describes his hitting the gym the day after that night in true gentleman and from this perspective, “I have come across Uniqlo many times November and signing up to make the move into the he is a wonderful addi- in my travels and frequently visit their ring: “I wanted it more than I was scared of failure,” he tion. We understand stores,” says Scott. “It is a brand with an says of his journey, which included some reluctance but and appreciate established history of innovation, offering the success of passing two cuts and making the final 14. high quality clothing backed by quality ma- “Walking out to a ring in front of 600 people screaming terials and an attention to detail.” for a good fight was what finally overcame my stubborn- It appears highly likely that many ness. I had finally committed to something.” more stars will be wearing the brand in the We spoke with one of the organisers, Dave Thomas, future as the company looks to make even greater inroads into the sporting world. It of Adidas Japan, ahead of the night and he told us all began by sponsoring two of Japan’s most concerned were “very excited as we move into the final highly respected sportsmen, rising tennis countdown. We have some great sponsors and partners star Kei Nishikori and three time Paralym- on board and the Ginja Ninjas are working on ways to pic gold medalist Shingo Kunieda, though make Executive Fight Night II even more exciting than it is the names Adam Scott and Novak the first one for the 450-plus in the audience.” Djokovic that will cause the biggest waves We wish luck to all involved – not least the 14 fighters – internationally and this is, ultimately, particularly as Thomas tells us they’ll be “raising money what Mr. Yanai is hoping for. for Refugees International Japan, our charity of choice.” 10 | OPINION | POLITICS

ed by a typically glamorous wedding), the attention around her turned to sexual politics and to whether she could produce a male heir (Japanese succession laws still allow only men to rise to the top). A PRINCESS At the time, there were no grandsons to continue the supposed 2,600-year dynasty of the Imperial family, and pressure weighed heavily on Princess Masako, from the IHA among others, to produce the (male) goods, all the while ensuring she elevated herself IN DISTRESS from commoner to classy royal. Then, with her miscarriage in 1999, she had to contend not only with the terrible maternal pain of Is Princess Masako Really A Tax Stealer? loss but also the tedium of a royal succession crisis – a position that meant in 2001 she edia punch-bag Princess Ma- wards in a right-wing magazine called WiLL, again had to listen to the sighs of disappoint- sako, wife of the heir to the Kanji Nishio expressed likewise that it would ment when her baby, Aiko, was born with chrysanthemum throne, was be better if the princess could “disembark” the “wrong” chromosomes. She became, in reportedly heckled at Tokyo sta- the “ship named the Imperial System”, since the words of one commentator, “a prisoner tion this March. “Tax stealer! she is “seasick and cannot stay on board”. of her womb”. MFaking sickness, lazy tax stealer! Get out of the Such protestations fail to understand the That Masako’s rising cosmopolitanism royal family!” yelled a man of around 60 in refer- nature of princess’s woes, the causes that and the palace’s rigid traditionalism ence to the princess’s health problems and pro- brought them about, or what it re- would collide is hardly surpris- longed absence from public view. Princess Masako ally is that constitutes “public ing. The IHA has never cared was said to have been “frozen” with shock at the duty”. It is worth noting that for modernisation. A most encounter, before scarpering to the mountains of the captain of the “ship If Masako is to conspicuous case was in Nagano with her husband, Crown Prince Naruhito, named the Imperial Sys- be accused of “idle tax- 1993 when Masako was and Princess Aiko, her daughter, for an apparently tem”, is not the Emper- criticised for speaking “tense” ski trip. or, but the bureaucratic theft” or slacking off, we slightly longer than Reporters followed the family to Nagano, in- giant known as the Im- might first see what “public her prince during terviewing skiers agitated by the sizable security perial Household Agen- their first joint press detail allocated for the trip. “It’s a nuisance,” said cy (IHA). The IHA has it- duty” she can offer when conference. It was, she one skier of the 30-strong police escort that sur- self long downplayed the was told, more befitting rounded the royals. “If she has the energy to enjoy princess’s illness, calling untethered of a princess to be defer- skiing, then why can’t she do her official business?” it “adjustment disorder” – a ential and self-effacing. Yet the onlooker added. On the last day, Princess Ma- condition that is by definition she failed again to exercise suf- sako, having neither the energy for skiing nor for acute, rather than chronic, and not ficient restraint in 1996 when she official business, stayed safely out of public view supposed to last for more than six months. revealed she enjoyed the novels of Nobel (how easily a simple family outing can turn into a Though her treatment has gone on for nearly Prize-winning Kenzaburo Oe, an outspoken melodrama, she must have thought). ten years, the IHA has not acknowledged that critic of the Imperial system who turned Disgruntled passers-by are not alone in her illness is what Akira Iwanami, a profes- down the offer of Imperial decoration say- their disapproval for the princess. It has sor of psychiatry at the Showa University ing it was unsuited to democracy. been nearly ten years since she was first School of Medicine, says is more likely When she finally suffered a breakdown hospitalised with a “stress-induced” ill- “depression”. in 2004, Prince Naruhito shocked many by ness, and many royalist sympathizers have, It has not always been thus. Ma- speaking out against the restrictions im- as a result, been feeling desperately sako Owada, as she was known be- posed on her by the IHA – restrictions that unfulfilled by the lack of ceremo- fore becoming a princess, was an he claimed “denied Masako’s career and nial ribbon-cutting and unctuous Oxford and Harvard educated, character” and that, according to Jeff King- hand-waving that has been go- multi-lingual daughter of a gov- ston of Temple University, dictated “clothes, ing on. In 2008, for instance, the ernment official, on the cusp food, press conferences, and a heavy sched- princess attended a private din- of a promising career in the ule of ceremonial duties”. If Masako is to be ner with Prince Charles and Foreign Ministry. Things accused of “idle tax-theft” or slacking off, we his wife Camilla, Duchess of changed in 1993 when she might first see what “public duty” she can Cornwall, but did not ap- agreed to marry Prince offer when untethered – when the “untra- pear a few weeks later for Naruhito (after two ditional” sides to her diplomatic talents are the King of Spain, leav- rejections, accord- put to good use, and when she is not coming one palace insider to ing to rumour) and pelled to conform to the heir-bearing duty complain to the Times finally entered the and banality of the palace. That this has of London, “What logi- Imperial family. been denied to her, and us, is surely the real cal explanation can we Soon enough, after “tax-theft” here, as well as the likely cause of give for that? That the the initial buzz of re- her psychological decline. And it is therefore British are healthy but the juvenated interest in not Masako, but her handlers that should Spanish make her ill?” After- all things royal (prompt- feel the ire of the public.

by Henry Watts

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com

SUMMER SOUNDS festival guide 2013

Taico Club

e were seriously impressed when What to look out for: your new we saw Kauru ‘K’ Ishibashi – he favourite Japanese act goes by Kishi Bashi on stage – in W Tokyo last year. He was born in For you if: You like your mountain- Seattle, Washington, and grew up side festivals slightly more intimate, in Virginia so is of course better known on that and you’re into discovery side of the Pacific, but bringing his violin and live-looped beats – and voice – to Japan seemed Lineup Highlights: Kishi Bashi (right), Denki Groove, Clark (Warp something of a homecoming, with extended Records), Of Montreal, Ricardo Villalobos family in the crowd as stirred as anyone. He’ll be no stranger to Of Montreal, having toured taicoclub.com/13/ JuN 1-2 and played with them before, and will, we’re guessing, ease visitors in to a night that will become characteristically more dance-focused as FUJI ROCK time flies by. The festival, in the mountains and most easily accessed by car, has a fairly eclectic ome of us are still getting over The xx confirmed for a Sunday slot, Fuji Rock lineup and even at this late stage continues to add the weather at last year’s Fuji has now added The Cure to the top of the artists – keep your eyes on the official website. Rock, where it didn’t rain. final night bill so it is eyeliner-styled king of A crazy thunderstorm did blitz goth-rock, Robert Smith, who’ll leave give the S the Niigata sky as Radiohead festival the sendoff it always deserves. finished off another fantastic year on the Sunday night and while Thom Yorke transfixed, What to look out for: Tomorrow’s those clouds just about held on – until we were trends in high-end outdoor gear, back in the Palace of Wonder, lingering for as today long as we could to avoid thoughts of the office the following day. For you if: you’re hardy. There are things you can take for granted about this year’s Fuji Rock, though none of Lineup Highlights: them are the weather… Bjork will astound Nine Inch Nails, Bjork (left), The Cure, Jurassic anyone who so much as wanders past the main 5, The XX, Death Grips, Foals, Haim, Kendrick stage on Saturday night, you’ll have to decide Lamar, Maya Jane Coles, Modeselektor, Of which side of the ‘is it ok to stay at a hotel Monsters and Men, Tame Impala, Yo La Tengo, during a music festival’ fence to fall on and, if Vampire Weekend, anything late at night in you do camp, you’ll at least once forget where the atmospheric Palace of Wonder you put your tent. After announcing that NiN and Bjork would headline Friday and Saturday, with www.fujirockfestival.com July 26-28

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com FESTIVALS | MUSIC | 13

Summer Sonic

ometimes all about there are plenty of hotels in the area, but be rock, other years all warned: they’ll fill up quick… Kickstart the about pop, and this year Summer Sonic weekend with Sonic Mania – at S completely eclectic, just Makuhari Messe on the Friday night – where like the spring weather The Stone Roses, Pet Shop Boys, Denki Groove, in Tokyo. Whether you’re into the Justice (DJ set), Klaxons, Steve Aoki and more danceable beats of oh-so-cool M.I.A. will get you bouncing. or want to be brought back to the alternative nineties with Billy Corgan’s What to look out for: a trip back in distinctive voice, Summer Sonic will time – no matter when you grew up definitely have something for you. Put on some comfortable shoes as you’ll For you if: you want to hear some be running in between stages to catch cool acts minus the tents and hik- everything you want to see, though a lot ing BOOTS of the action does take place indoors – a godsend in mid-August. Be prepared to Lineup Highlights: Metallica, Linkin Park, Beady Eye, Bastille, walk quite far or hop on the provided Jake Bugg, Alt-J (left), M.I.A., Mew Fidlar shuttle bus to catch the headliners in (Saturday) Muse, The Smashing Pumpkins, the baseball stadium. Summer Sonic BIG BEACH Pet Shop Boys, Two Door Cinema Club, Johnny is definitely not the tent-and-rucksack Marr, Cyndi Lauper, Palma Violets (Sunday) ig Beach’s main man, Norman Cook – who type of event, but you can make a whole founded the festival in Brighton, England, weekend of it thanks to its proximity to back in 2001 – returns to DJ as Fatboy Tokyo. If you plan on getting any kip, www.summersonic.com AUG 10-11 B Slim after lending the Chemical Brothers headliners duty in 2012. With quality dance acts peppering the bill, there will be little time to soak up the sun in the background – you’ll want to head to the stages and get involved in the music. Basement Jaxx are an irresistible live dance act. Playing with Latin styles, dance-hall beats and hip hop sensibilities, Felix Buxton and Simon Ratcliffe often call upon flamboyant guest vocalists and performers and are themselves not shy of a carnival-inspired costume change or two – they’ll surely be one not to miss.

Hostess Club Weekender

Though the latest Hostess to put on a not-so-small pair of parties over the lineup reads a little like space of a weekend and Ebisu Garden Place is the playlist of a shuffling a neat venue for them to return to. T indie-kid’s seldom synced iPod, that’s not to say What to look out for: our editor’s What to look out for: THIS YEAR’S MUST-HAVE there won’t be some delightful surprises. favourite band… sunglassES British Sea Power fans might see the bill For you if: you like good clean – For you if: You want a (much, much tamer) as somewhat inverted – after all it is they indoor – fun Japanese version of Ibiza whose sixth studio album is getting the four and five star reviews this month Lineup Highlights: Lineup Highlights: and not Travis (though the Scots-many- had-forgot do have a new release of their Travis, These New Puritans, British Sea Power Fatboy Slim, Basement Jaxx, Erol Alkan, Maya Jane Coles, own coming shortly after regrouping (above), Editors, Little Barrie, Múm Sasha, Ellen Allien, Damian Lazarus, Nervo, Tom Staar these last few months…) We love the atmosphere at these events – Hostess is a ynos.tv/hostessclub JUN 8-9 www.bigbeach-fes.com/13/ JUN 1 label/promoter that certainly knows how

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 TAO OKAMOTO A MODEL PERFORMANCE by Matthew Hernon

aking a break from the photo studios and runways that have sought her image for so long, Tao Okamoto hits the big screen this year alongside Hugh Jackman in the latest Marvel movie, The Wolverine, so we’d better get used to hearing her name. After an extensive two- T year search, director James Mangold finally decided the Vogue cover star with no acting experience was the perfect candidate to play the superhero’s new love interest, Makiko. But why? When Tao arrived to meet us at Donna Studios in Shibuya, Weekender found a natural beauty (and this may have had something to do with it…) She lit up the room with both her personality and her looks – without the need for much makeup; she speaks flawless English, is smart and charming and while she has fronted campaigns for the likes of Ralph Lauren, Emporio Armani, Alexander McQueen and Givenchy, there is nothing of the diva about her. Tao seemed keen to speak at length about her thoughts on the film, a certain Australian actor (and how her ex-boyfriend might see him), her modelling career and what the future holds.

Your first acting job lands you in a major blockbuster with one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, how did that come about? Well the studio was searching for a Japanese girl for the role of Mariko for around two years. They just couldn’t seem to find anyone so they opened the door wider to include people who weren’t in the industry and that was when my agency gave me a call and asked if I was interested. I initially said no because I’d never done anything like that, but then they mentioned I was going to be Hugh Jackman’s girlfriend in the movie and that was enough to change my mind.

Two years is a long time to be looking, why do you think they found it so difficult? There just aren’t enough Japanese actresses who speak English. For James (Mangold) it had to be a Japanese girl because he had seen Zhang Ziyi as Sayuri in Memoirs of a Geisha and really didn’t like it. I think a lot of people in this country also complained about that, but I am sure they wanted a Japanese person for that role, they just couldn’t find anyone. I think that is something we should feel a little ashamed about and try to learn from.

This void gave you an opportunity to star in your first film, how do you think it went? I absolutely love acting. Being my first time it was obviously hard at first, particularly the action scenes as I didn’t really want to hit people! With the help of the stunt team I gradually improved. As for the general performance, I am not sure if I was good or not, though the director said I was, so that is positive.

Can you tell us a little bit about your character? Mariko is a strong, independent girl. Her family is extremely wealthy and they want her to eventually to take over the running of their business, but she has other ideas. Then she meets Wolverine (Jackman) and the adventure begins.

What was it like working with someone like Hugh Jackman? I know it is a boring answer to say he is so nice, but he really was a dream to work alongside. I have heard some big movie stars can be cold towards fellow cast members who aren’t actors per se, but being one of the producers he appreciated everyone’s

Photograph courtesy of Koichiro Doi TAO OKAMOTO | INTERVIEW | 15 support and really took care of us all. He gave me a lot of advice. This was my first time on a movie set and I didn’t even know what ‘on’ and ‘off’ camera meant. He would tell me where to stand and what I should be focusing on and other little things like not eating too much during the meal scenes in case there were many takes. While it might sound very simple, tips like that really helped me.

Did you get close to him on a personal level? Yes, he is a really open person who wanted to bring the cast and crew closer together. I remember on Fridays he would buy every single person on set a scratchcard. He thought it was a good way to get people communicating. Apparently he has been doing it for around 12 years. He also invited all of us to dinner during and after the shoot, which was a lot of fun. We got to meet his wife and two kids, who are so cute. A lot of people say he is such a hot guy, but for me he is like a super nice dad. Of course I mean that in a complimentary way!

Were you a big fan of his prior to this movie? It’s funny, the first memory I have of him is how jealous he made my British ex-boyfriend around 10 years ago. We were watching the X-Men DVD and I didn’t really like Sci-Fi films at that time so I your look is more popular for and didn’t know how to treat me. I even had kids wasn’t massively into it, but I remember mention- foreign audiences/designers than throwing stones at me. ing to my boyfriend about how cute the main star Japanese ones? During my first few months in New York (in was. He really wasn’t happy about that and I think Definitely, which makes me feel a little sad. 2009) I was having a hard time and almost ready he will get quite a shock if he goes to the cinema Here in Japan I am often described as an ‘Asian to give up on modeling. I was told that that was and sees me as Hugh Jackman’s girlfriend! Beauty’, which sounds good, but actually can ‘fine’ as there were a number other Asian girls be negative. People often view it as being too who could easily replace me. That made me feel It must have also come as quite a traditional or old-fashioned and as a result I really terrible, but I decided to persevere and surprise to your family and friends, wasn’t what Japanese designers were looking really try to make a go of it. how did they react? for. On the other hand whenever foreign There have been times when I have wanted to My parents used to be actors so I think they were designers came to my shows they selected me return to Japan and give up (on modeling) but … pretty happy that I was kind of following in their every time. The decision to move abroad was my time abroad has generally been very positive. footsteps. I invited them to the set, which they therefore quite an easy one. I’ve had some wonderful job opportunities, met were excited about. My mum was like a stage- some great friends, learned English and lived mum, trying to analyse my performance. I felt I I am sure they in some of the world’s most vibrant cities, so I wasn’t doing well early on and she was adding definitely shouldn’t be complaining. to the pressure so I eventually decided to send wanted a Japanese her home. I haven’t really spoken to (my friends) So what’s next? Does your new about it yet because I am not so confident about person for that role, they acting career mean we are going my performance. to being seeing less of you as a just couldn’t find anyone. model? Is a lack of confidence something I think that is something I am not sure about that. There is still much I want you suffer from when modelling? to do as a model, like work for Christian Dior and Yes, I would love to be more confident. It is the we should feel a little John Galliano, so I am definitely not ready to give one thing I would most like to change about up on that industry yet. Having said that I would myself. From a young age I have really had a ashamed about and try love to be in more movies. Hopefully when the complex about my looks and especially my height. film is released and my name is out there, there People would point and stare at me, which made to learn from. will be further opportunities. If there are, I will me feel terrible, so I would try to bend my knees have to be careful about striking a good balance or somehow try to stand lower. Anything to make You left at a young age [Tao between the two. myself look shorter. moved to Paris in 2006], how dif- I am looking forward to finding what people After moving to England I started to become ficult was it to adapt? think (of The Wolverine). It will be particularly a little more confident. My height was less of an It wasn’t easy, though I think it is the same for interesting for foreigners living in Japan as there issue there and this made be feel better about anyone who leaves their home country. Not are a lot of places they will have been to and myself. Doing well as a model has also helped. being able to speak French while living in Paris things they will have seen, like the shinkansen etc. I have met some really wonderful people in the was hard and then I moved to this tiny village I just hope they like my performance too. industry, like (designers) Zac Posen and Philip in Kent, England, called Tenterden (about 90km Lim, who have been really supportive. south-east of London), where there were not The Wolverine is on general release on really any places for young people to go out, so September 13. If you are in the US or Europe, Most of your modelling success that was also difficult. I think some people in you’ll be able to see it in July. has been overseas, do you think the area hadn’t seen an Asian person before

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Top class hotels share the waterfront share the waterfront hotels class Top have become home to shops, restaurants shops, restaurants become home to have and the Osanbashi and seasonal events) the view, for out onto walk to Pier (good other easily and many coffee) or a cup of between wandering accessed spots worth Park Yamashita seafront The exploring. and just or air fresh some get to place great a is area and the whole by go the world watch won’t you spots and quirks has historical else in Japan. find anywhere and with both modern and traditional cafes You flavour. international an with many bars, the New MacArthur’s Bar at could head to classical in quality of cocktail a for Grand from beer craft local a grab or surroundings next shops. On the the waterfront one of about information some see you’ll pages few conference, the to linked specifically events the for hope there’ll be plenty but organisers Yokohama a trip to public, meaning general be will pleasure or business for whether more worthwhile. even

YOKOHAMA YOKOHAMA

ur near-neighbor, Yokohama, Yokohama, ur near-neighbor, welcome to preparing is of members and delegates the various the public to with TICAD associated events

When you are in Yokohama, for the the for are in Yokohama, When you WELCOMES THE WORLD

V, a local event with global significance. The with global significance. The a local event V, African on Conference International Tokyo years five every happens Development partnerships strategic “forge to aims and for Africa’s development” – host will bodies other and governmental a range of meetings business discussions, seminars, which of many events, and other associated pages. are outlined on the following or otherwise, find that conference you’ll the capital, the city has so close to while from removed completely atmosphere an Chinatown In the area between Tokyo. and more just than street food (great Tower and the Landmark restaurants) tallest building) Japan’s recently (until (which Brick Warehouses there are the Red O TICAD IN YOKOHAMA | PROMOTION | 19

PORT OF YOKOHAMA

OSANBASHI PIER PACIFICO YOKOHAMA

JICA

YOKOHAMA STATION COSMO WORLD YOKOHAMA MARINE TOWER RED BRICK WHAREHOUSE

QUEEN’S SQUARE THE LANDMARK TOWER NYK MARITIME MUSEUM

YOKOHAMA STADIUM

SUPPORTING TICAD

The following Embassies would like to show their support for TICAD V 2013 in Yokohama.

EMBASSY OF ALGERIA

The Embassy of Algeria is proud to offer its support to Africa-Japan economic relations on the occasion of TICAD V in Yokohama.

H. E. Mr. Sid Ali Ketrandji Photograph Courtesy of Takeshi Ueshima ANGOLA BAHRAIn Djibouti Morocco

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 The 5th Tokyo International Conference on African Development - June 1st - 3rd Hand in Hand with a more Dynamic Africa

Japan is to host TICAD V in Yokohama, where African leaders and the international community will gather to discuss specific actions geared to realizing quality growth in Africa. TICAD V is a global platform for mobilizing the concerted efforts of all the stakeholders on African development under the concept of “ownership” and “partnership”

Many people with deep connections to African development have offered their messages of support ahead of TICAD V, below are three examples:

The Tokyo International Conference on Africa’s Development has served as an important framework for raising awareness and galvanising international cooperation. I thank the Government of Japan for its leadership. As a co-organiser of the TICAD process, the United Nations is proud to support this important forum. This year we mark the 20th anniversary of TICAD, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, the forerunner of the African Union (AU). As leaders gather in the beautiful city of Yokohama for TICAD V, let us celebrate the many gains Africa has made while staying focused on the challenges that remain. Together, let us continue to strengthen partnerships to advance prosperity and peace for all the people of Africa.

Mr. Ban Ki-moon - Secretary General of the United Nations

Konnichiwa! At TICAD IV in 2008 Japan made a commitment to double bilateral aid to Africa by 2012. Delivery on that promise is on track, despite unimaginably tough times after the tsunami, and has helped support African leadership through an incredible decade of progress. This shows great vision on behalf of the Japanese people, who alongside TICAD and Japan have a critical role to play in making the lives of the poorest of the poor more than a bit better.

Bono - Lead singer of U2 and co-founder of ONE and (RED)

Africa enjoys enormous benefits from TICAD. Japan supports the essential sectors of education and human resource development, greatly contributing to capacity building and technology transfer in Africa. Ticad V carries big hopes for Africa. We now expect Japan to show, in a stronger way, that it is beside Africa. Japan must take back its leadership in being Africa’s main partner in Asia.

H.E. Mr. Youssou N’Dour - Musician and Minister for Tourism and Culture, Senegal JETRO | PROMOTION | 21 DOWN TO BUSINESS FORGING AND STRENGTHENING LINKS WITH AFRICA

business on weekdays for people interested in doing business in or with Africa. On June 1 - a Saturday - there will be a large- screen presentation of jazz musician Sadao Watanabe’s photography from his trips to Africa. Watanabe will also perform.

May 30th to June 2nd at the Pacifico Yokohama, Exhibition Hall 1F-B. For more information please visit: www.jetro.go.jp/en/events/af2013/ Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry JETRO (Free admission)

Highlights: A special exhibit, Specialty Africa, introduces products that have successfully entered the Japanese market through JETRO projects. Some of the featured items are Rwandan traditional hile offering an interesting way to learn a baskets and Ugandan dried fruits developed specially for the little more about and experience Africa, Japanese market using JETRO’s Demonstration Program for Trade there is also a more serious side to things Development. Other notable items are glass products and fabrics at this Ministry of Economy, Trade and designed under the conceptual brand “Sense Egypt” displayed in Industry and JETRO (Japan External Trade a showroom of Japanese modern living. Visitors can also enjoy Organization) sponsored event: the African Fair 2013 is the largest W premium quality African origin coffees and teas brewed by the African business related event in Japan, with at the time of writing members of Specialty Coffee Association of Japan (SCAJ) and the 49 countries represented by individual national booths that will Japan Tea Association. show off and introduce products, business services and activities. The Japanese Company Zone, presented by the Ministry of There will be opportunity for face-to-face business talks, a Economy, Trade and Industry, introduces brilliant Japanese products, chance to learn first hand about investment and development technology and services aimed at contributing to Africa’s sustainable opportunities in the continent and chance to gain inspiration from growth. In particular, these will be focused on infrastructure, the the well-known diversity and brilliance of Africa. The aim is to environment and energy sector and the BOP business. promote economic growth in Africa by focusing on trade links and diversification of supply chains, leading to a win-win situation for Japan and the nations visiting for the TICAD V conference in Yokohama. Africa Symposium The event also hosts “New Trends in African Business” a Japanese company zone, where local businesses will The symposium aims to introduce the activities of Japanese introduce made in Japan companies doing business in Africa, and to disseminate messages products and infrastructure- to strengthen business relationships between Africa and Japan. related technology that could It will also look at the diversifying strategies and the resulting contribute to sustainable development and evolution of African business. economic growth in Africa. The symposium has three parts, and stalwarts of the business Staff will offer insights communities in Japan and Africa will give presentations and join into their operations and panel discussions on topics such as “The market development strategies in Africa and by Japanese companies through the BOP business”. If you are hope to further forge links interested in doing business in Africa, please join us at the with the network of people symposium. (Attending the symposium requires prior application working and trading with from JETRO’s website.) Africa at the heart of their operations. Date & Time: Friday, 9:30 to 17:00 May 31, 2013 There will be many Venue: Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu Ambassadors Ballroom seminars on African

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 JICA in AFRICA Towards inclusive and dynamic development

apan’s own experiences in nation building and development of international cooperation after World War II led it to success in many projects overseas and, through upholding a focused philosophy that helps people help themselves and to challenge and resolve various problems with their own efforts, JICA’s work is continuing to bring success stories. JICA works ‘on the ground’ to provide training to trainers, giving technical support to long-term projects that en- able education and ensures employment opportunities are offered to people with new skills. While aiming to develop training systems and institutions, it also seeks to ensure technology, equipment and teaching materials are up to date. Some projects have continued for more up to 20 years and produced assets such as universities and vocational training institutions that have become centers of excellence in their country or region. Diverse projects include cooperation related to a school of veterinary medicine at the Uni- versity of Zambia, a Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Kenya, training for electricians in Uganda and vocational training for mechanics in Senegal (see case study). Lifting communities out of poverty, helping to stabilize countries and improving welfare are bold aims but in seeing a basic problem – the lack of training infrastructure and the ability to disseminate the use of new technology – JICA has long been facilitating the roots of sustainable growth.

History and Spirit Japan has been continuously supporting hitozukuri in vocational training and higher education in Africa since the 1960s. Part of the legacy of long-term cooperation in Africa is that the spirit of monozukuri – Japanese craftsmanship – is upheld and not only that people learn how to work and train, but that they do so with a Japanese spirit. This means a work ethic and a pride in their skills that can help them take themselves and the industry and economy of their country to the next level. Human resources development cannot simply mean sending technology or teaching skills. The process is about fostering human relationships that can accelerate sustainable economic growth. This has involved bringing African people to Japan on scholarships to teach them both Japanese language and working practices, allowing them to go back to their countries with a professional skill set and philosophy. Human resources development – hitozukuri in Japanese Three Common Pillars of – is the key to nation building and socio-economic hitozukuri cooperation development. This has a special meaning in Africa today 1. Through devoted and continuous collaborative work by stakeholders in Africa and Japan, mutual trust and human – the number of young people in training and education networks are built between the two countries, contributing is steadily increasing and it is becoming more important to an intellectual human network. 2. Graduates of the institutions assisted by Japanese cooperation have sound work to find opportunities in the workplace for this generation attitudes and morale as well as practical skills and tech- niques they can use in industrial sectors – case studies have to impact economic growth positively. JICA aims to shown they consistently gain good reputations. 3. Not only promote inclusive and sustainable growth with technical do graduates cope with Japanese technology and practices, they are also more innovative in creating appropriate tech- cooperation, concessional loans, investment, grant aid and nology and systems for further development based on the by sending Japanese volunteers where they are needed. actual needs of society.

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com JICA | PROMOTION | 23

portunities for youth as a potential driver to realize a more stable society, and 4) improving agricultural productivity to meet the growing demand on food. Further, to tackle these issues, human resource development is crucial. Exchanging and developing ideas in concert with local knowledge, wisdom and expertise is the basis for development cooperation. To concisely sum up this approach, JICA coined the word “synnovation”: in- novating new approaches and solutions in concert with partners. As businesses and investment flourish with Africa’s Growth, JICA encourages synnovation through hitozukuri (human resource development) promotes partnerships with the private sector, civil society, academics and other stakeholders to maintain or build growth momentum in Africa. Message from Tsuneo KUROKAWA, In the Fifth Tokyo International Con- VICE President of JICA ference on African Development (TICAD V), JICA will host a series of side events to Towards Inclusive and Dynamic Development in Africa discuss with prominent figures how Africa should achieve inclusive and sustainable economic transformation. I would be most frican countries have con- While ensuring human security to free grateful if you could join us in Yokohama tinued growing at a strong people from fear and want in fragile coun- and help deepen our understanding of vi- pace since the beginning tries, the Japan International Cooperation brant Africa and its state of development, as of this century. With this Agency (JICA) prioritizes in its cooperation well as of JICA’s activities. steady growth, Africa has activities the following four issues to foster Aseen good progress toward some of the Mil- more inclusive and sustainable develop- lennium Development Goals (MDGs). Yet, ment: 1) sharing the fruits of development there still remain challenges to make this with the poor for fairer distribution, 2) growth more inclusive and dynamic, and improving infrastructure to accelerate the to overcome fragility on the continent. growth, 3) creating jobs and education op-

TICAD V JICA Side Events: May 31 - Jun 3 The Center for “Inclusive and Dynamic Development in Africa” Technical and JICA will host a series of side events in which discussions will be organized on Vocational the main themes of TICAD V. Both participants of the TICAD V and the general Training (CFPT) public are invited to join the events at the Inter Continental Yokohama Grand in Senegal and at JICA Yokohama. High Level Panel on “Inclusive and Dynamic Development in Africa” ince 1982, over 13:00 – 14:30 May 31st, 2013 - How can Africa achieve inclusive and dynamic growth 3,000 CFPT that fully utilizes the vast diversity of the continent and its people? graduates have At TICAD IV in 2008, JICA hosted a high level international symposium on “Economic been contribut- Development in Africa and Asian Growth Experience.” The TICAD V High Level Panel will deepen the discussion with an attempt to introduce innovative ideas for African Sing to Senegalese soci- countries to pursue more inclusive and dynamic growth. ety as core technicians and entrepreneurs and Seminars on “Economic Transformation for Inclusive and Dynamic Growth” 13:00 – 18:30 June 2nd - JICA will organize a series of seminars focusing on “Economic have by extension been Transformation for Inclusive and Dynamic Growth,” one of the key phrases of TICAD generating employment V. We will share results of the latest research on industrial development and youth in the nation. The CFPT employment as well as information on JICA’s activities in Economic Transformation is known as not only the top vocational training center in Senegal, in Africa. but also for around 20 neighboring countries it reaches through the Themes for other side events include: Third Country Training Program. Peace building by Local Governments; South-South and Triangular Partnership; Uni- One of its alumni is Ms. Ndeye Coumba Mboup Mbengue, who versal Health Coverage; Corridor Development Strategy; Coalition for African Rice graduated in 1996. Her training led her to a job at Renault, where Development (CARD); Africa 2050 Perspective; Infrastructure Investment in Southern Africa; BoP Business; Climate Change and Water, Energy and Food Security; Africa-Ja- she was the company’s first female employee in the country, and pan Dialogue on Disability; Capacity Building for Development Financing Institutions. after gaining further experience in maintenance at other car deal- erships, she was able to establish Femme Auto in 2006. She now em- Registration is required for all side events due to limited seating. For timeta- ploys 35 people, including 10 women, and dreams of producing cars ble, more event details and to register your interest, please visit: ticad.net/africa/jicaevents/index.html built solely in Senegal. It was the CFPT that made her take these actions. The center was established with grant aid and has been given Place: InterContinental Yokohama Grand, “Silk” (Conference Room) ongoing technical support by the Government of Japan and JICA. JICA Yokohama, “Kamome” (Seminar Room)

Photo Courtesy of Atsushi Shibuya / JICA www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 TICAD v IN YOKOHAMA Africa and yokohama, Towards MUTUAL GROWTh

As TICAD V comes to town, Yokohama’s schoolchildren, its metro stations and its business leaders – along with local volunteers – are all doing their bit to improve ties between the city and Africa, but how? www.ticadyokohama.jp/e/

AFRICA AND YOKOHAMA

he port city of Yokohama, which welcomes Tokyo International Conference on African Development at the beginning of June, has more to do with Africa itself than meets the eye. With many events on the sidelines of TICAD V and running in parallel with it, the relationship andT bond between Yokohama and Africa will become tighter, moving towards mutual growth. However large or small your knowledge of Africa is, the time to visit Yokohama and allow it to grow is now – and when you get there you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. Various ongoing projects exist that specifically tie Yokohama to Africa. There’s a partnership between the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre and Yokohama’s zoo, which sees staff sharing knowledge through an exchange program that also raises awareness of environmental conservation. The Future City Initiative aims to present Yokohama’s experience in city planning to emerging nations. Location is important, too: taking advantage of know-how possessed by the Port of Yokohama, trainees and port officials from African countries visit to learn about management of the port, and the development of its world-class facilities. Each of the 40 stations of the Yokohama Subway are getting involved – featuring as they do one country each and hosting various events including station concerts throughout the period. Local elementary and junior high schools have adopted a nation each, too, to help increase knowledge and awareness of Africa and many students have had the chance to meet ambassadors based in Japan – nurturing the future of international relations.

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com TICAD | PROMOTION | 25

Sound/Art –Tuning in to Africa Ballake Sissoko

Before TICAD V various events around Yokohama aim to showcase in Japan 2013 and discuss the progressive nature of African development. A series of events titled Sound/Art – Tuning in to Africa, will be held Sound/Art – at the Yokohama Creativecity Center (YCC), a project based in the Tuning in to Africa former Yokohama premises of the Dai-Ichi Bank, one of the city’s foremost heritage buildings. Along with musical performances t is the music of Africa that for many and art installations, a live talk program will allow discussion of people most evokes the atmosphere of some of the most progressive parts of African development in the unique pockets of the continent, and contexts, organisers hope, of music and art. this event hopes to entice you with a A highlight of the program will be when Peter Barakan, a WestI African harpist of global acclaim. British music author and DJ on InterFM, based in Tokyo, talks Ballaké Sissoko is a Malian musician through a diverse selection of music that is either from or has known for playing a type of harp called a its roots in Africa. Barakan has lived in Japan for more than 30 kora. If you have ever heard the instrument, years and has worked in the music and radio industry for even it’s likely Sissoko was plucking its 21 longer. Admission is free, though you will need to book your seat strings; he’s such a specialist that in fact in advance. The talk starts at 2pm on May 18. only his friend and compatriot, Toumani During Sound/Art – Tuning in to Africa, a piece of installation Diabaté, can be said to have surpassed his art by Megumi Matsubara and Angolan artist, Nastio Mosquito, abilities, and seeing him in Yokohama is a fills the first floor of the Creativecity Center venue. tantalizing prospect as they come for world music lovers. Anyone with an interest in any of the programs should It is his mesmerizing collaborations call 045-221-0219 (weekdays 10:00 – 18:00). Events will be with musicians around the world that held between May 14 and 20 each day between 12:00 and 20:00. often bring Sissoko limelight and media Admission to most events is free. attention – French cellist Vincent Segal the most recently celebrated chamber music team-up success – but here we will get a show of pure transfixion from the great man himself, allowing his instrument to take centre stage. Sissoko has been called an innovator but his music is steeped in tradition and this really is one not to miss.

Advance tickets: 3,000 (on the day 3,500) Where: Yokohama Creative City Center 1F Hall When: May 18, 7pm (doors at 6:30) and May 19, 2pm (doors at 1:30). For more information please visit: http://saa.yafjp.org Tickets: 0120-240-540 (weekday 10:00-18:00)

AFRICAn FESTA 2013

ith TICAD V coming to Japan, a festive celebration of the diversity of Africa and its links with this country seems all the more timely than usual – though Wevery time an event like this occurs, thousands flock to either experience a bit of culture, listen to live music, buy and learn more about products or simply eat some good food. The African Festa in Yokohama has attracted hundreds of thousands of people since 2008 and introduced them to Africa, as well as its links with the Japanese community and indeed Africans living here. The aim is to foster a better understanding of and affinity with Africa and the charms of its many and varied cultures and, judging by the crowds, it seems to have been working. Hands-on workshops teach visitors about fashion and regional African crafts, NGOs and embassies host booths for those doing business or wanting to learn more about development and the current state of play in Africa, and star performers will take to the stage to give the perfect soundtrack to proceedings.

The event takes place at the Red Brick Warehouse in Yokohama on the weekend of May 11 and 12. For more information please visit: African Festa 2008 www.africanfesta2013.com

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 26 | WEEKENDER | EXPAT LIFE

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com EXPAT LIFE | WEEKENDER | 27

Opposite the historic Nijo Castle – free shuttle from Kyoto station English speaking – Pool, sauna and gym facilities – Western, Japanese and Chinese cuisine

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www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 28 | FOOD | KYOTO & SHIGA The home of beef is there really a pampered cow behind every juicy steak?

gyu its juiciness, shabu, yakiniku, steak and sukiyaki, which rich flavour and Mr. Okayama says originated in Shiga. We extraordinary opted for the steak set, which was a true feast tenderness. consisting of a number of small beefy dishes Farmers go followed by the highest quality miyabi steak to great lengths to that really does have the melt in the mouth enhance this genetic quality that everyone talks about. quirk by making sure their cows Healthy Fat are properly taken It is not all just about taste though, Ohmi- care of. Though gyu is also said to boast a number of health their husbandry benefits. As well as being an excellent source is surrounded by of vitamin B and protein, the high percentage a certain amount of mono-unsaturated fat that wagyu cows of mystery and produce can, it is thought, help to reduce the intrigue, the cows cholesterol levels in our arteries. The mono- are generally unsaturated fat to saturated fat ratio is up thought of as the to three times higher (6:1) in Wagyu than in most ‘pampered’ on regular beef (2:1). the planet. Stories It was reportedly the medicinal properties about them drinking of Ohmi-gyu that drew the Shogun and many alcohol while being Feudal lords to the beef during the Edo Period, played Mozart have though one suspects its flavour and succulence become legendary, may also have had something to do with it. but are they really The fact that beef was prohibited at the time treated as we are led didn’t seem to deter the most powerful people to believe? in the country from eating it. “Foreigners “People in Japan generally started to eat seem to have an beef from 1868, during the Meiji era,” says image of us giving Okayama. “But the history of beef in the them beer and Ohmi area (now Shiga Prefecture) goes back massaging them, much further. We were dealing cattle leather but I think that may for drums during the Edo Era, the left over een as the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of beef, be a little exaggerated,” says Takeki Okayama, meat was put in miso in order to preserve Ohmi-gyu is known throughout President of Okaki Co.ltd. “Of course we it. This precious food was then offered to the Japan for its unique, marbled sometimes put dried beer yeast in their forage, Tokugawa Shogunate.” appearance and its incredible taste. but as for real beer, I would rather drink it Centuries on, it is still highly valued, Believed to be the official wagyu of myself! Still, fermented forage has a good smell however these days it is not just served to theS Imperial Family, it is, along with Kobe and and it is indeed very appetising.” For the cows, the country’s elite. There are a number of Matsuzaka, one of the country’s so-called three we’d presume… restaurants throughout Japan serving Ohmi- supreme beefs (Sandai Wagyu). Highly revered “As for massages,” Okayama says, “I am not gyu, though for something more authentic, a amongst connoisseurs, it is both extremely sure about that either, but in order to make sure visit to Okaki Honten is highly recommended. prestigious and expensive. But what is all the they are comfortable fuss is about? we try to provide a stress-free barn. Pampered Cows? For example, we are We visited Okaki Honten in Yamanoue, Ryuo- constantly changing cho in Shiga Prefecture, the home of Ohmi-gyu, their flooring and we to find out more. Of course, we were to get our use an electric fan to teeth around some juicy steaks, but first there ensure it never gets was a chance to see where they came from: wet. Basically we the Tajima Black Wagyu at the cattle farm just want them to sit there down the road. Hailing from the Northern and feel as relaxed as region of Hyogo Prefecture, these sable beasts possible.” are considered a national treasure and are the Whatever they are source of what is considered by many as the doing it seems to be world’s finest meat. working. The beef at It is the unusually high level of marbling – Okai Honten lives up the fine layers of intramuscular fat – running to its hype. It is served through their meat that sets them apart in a variety of ways, from regular cattle. This is what gives ohmi- including shabu-

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com KYOTO & SHIGA | FOOD | 29

I think Michelin were shocked when we and other restaurants in Kyoto originally turned the award down, but our culture and heritage is very different 1 2 to that of France

recently and the dishes they make up are presented in a classically understated way. Such is the restaurant’s reputation some diners may be surprised by the lack of grandeur, but Takahashi is determined to uphold Hyotei’s rich cultural heritage: “It is about preserving traditions while at the same time adapting to new cuisine,” he says. “We 1 Tranquil Japanese garden 2 Entrance of the famous have a very strong philosophy here and we don’t restaurant 3 A typical kaiseki course. 3 want to veer too far away from that. It’s vital that we don’t regress, but even a slight change in our menu can lead to complaints from our regulars.” If Takahashi feels the pressure of satisfying such a demanding clientele, he certainly doesn’t show it. going kaiseki A softly spoken man, he exudes calmness. While he has appeared on a number of TV programmes and written books, he has no desire to be a celebrity in Kyoto chef or shout from the rooftops about how great his restaurant is. The fact is he doesn’t need to; Hyotei’s reputation sells itself. It is an establishment that has Why this cuisine may be too good attracted the rich and famous since its foundation. Emperor Akihito usually has his breakfast there for Michelin when he visits, while wealthy Tokyoites have been known to take the bullet train to Kyoto just for lunch. ichelin stars don’t matter. This them down, but our culture and heritage is very This was the case well before the French came with seems to be the view of many of different to (that of) France.” their stars and makes it hardly surprising to hear of Kyoto’s kaiseki-ryori restaurants Takahashi doesn’t believe he is above the Takahashi’s priorities. and local chefs who have, rather stars, he simply has other priorities. Known to TV Mthan flirting with the French culinary institution, viewers as the ‘Godfather of Japanese cooking’, he What is kaiseki-ryōri? focused on their own traditions and ignored the is meticulous in everything he does. Despite it being A traditional Japanese multi-course menu, it inspectors from food’s little red book. located in a culinary capital of a city that is known for was originally served as a light meal before tea In Europe, Michelin’s guide is revered and in its multitude of top quality kaiseki-ryōri restaurants, ceremonies to soothe the hunger of Zen monks. some cases even feared. Stars can make or break a Hyotei manages to stand out from the crowd. With the ritual becoming more popular amongst restaurant, causing stress and anxiety to a number Going back almost 400 years, Hyotei began Japanese royalty, chefs started to add more of obsessed chefs and proprietors – in 2003, Bernard as a teahouse serving pilgrims and travellers who expensive and exotic ingredients to the menu. It Loiseau took his own life, reportedly after reading were on their way to Nanzenji Temple, before it subsequently evolved into the extravagant form of rumours his restaurant was to be downgraded. was converted to a restaurant in 1837. Arriving at dining we see today. For Eiichi Takahashi, 14th generation owner the restaurant this history is immediately clear. Using carefully selected seasonal ingredients, and chef at the three-star Hyotei, in Kyoto, this The kuzuya thatched roof entrance and the garden a kaiseki dinner could include anything from five attitude is difficult to understand: walkway are said to look as they did when it first to fifteen courses. Menus change with the seasons “Far too much importance is placed on these opened. There are five private tatami rooms, each and vary from city to city, though most of today’s stars,” says Takahashi. “We’ve had three for a few overlooking a traditional Japanese garden; the rooms kaiseki restaurants focus on raw, pickled, steamed years and I suppose it has been good for business, are such a tranquil place to dine, hushed voices seem and fried dishes with vegetables at their heart. but it doesn’t bother me whether we keep them or necessary so as not to disturb the peace. not. I think they (Michelin) were shocked when we Monkfish liver, yam, turnips and snow crabs For more information on Hyotei please visit and other restaurants in Kyoto originally turned stood out on a seasonal and fresh sounding menu the official website: http://hyotei.co.jp/en/

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 IS JAPAN DRIVING YOU CRAZY?

uying and owning a car maintenance schedule, making the country a Importing in Japan can be a tedious gold mine for used cars. And it is actually in part Brits and Aussies particularly – they who drive on because shaken is so expensive that there are affair, but it does not have the left – often wish to bring their own vehicles to some real bargains to be had out there. Tokyo, or buy from back home. This is certainly to be a hassle or a drama. an option, but there are a few hurdles to jump. WeekenderB sat with Colin Shea, who Compulsory Inspection Customs clearance, modifications, compliance has over a decade of experience This is a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle and registration are officially the responsibility from a safety perspective. It inspects the essential offering support to expat car owners of the owner. Port handling – including fuel safety apparatuses of the vehicle to ensure they removal and battery disconnect, both necessary and buyers here in Tokyo. He helped us comply with the required level of safe operation. before a car can take to the waters – will need to get to grips with some key terminology It covers all the basics you’d expect: headlight be taken care of, not to mention the documents. that might make things a little easier and indicator lamps, wheel alignment, brakes, This is something that almost anywhere in the the speedometer, headlight beams, emissions and explained that with consumption world will mean finding a professional who can test, suspension, steering, drive shaft, muffler, help – no least in Japan. tax favorably low compared with other tires and oil leaks. parts of Asia, you could actually have Highways an advantage you didn’t know existed… Weight Tax and Insurance If you don’t have a registered ETC card, highways, The Land Transport Authority collects a tax on bridges and tunnels – and you’ll need all of those Shakken automobile owners based not only on engine if you are to fully enjoy your car and head to If you’ve been looking to buy – or even already size but also on the weight of the vehicle. the country – are seriously expensive. A single own – a car, shakken is a word you’ll get used to Insurance is required by law but it is a limited crossing of the Tokyo Bay Aqua-line will cost you hearing… a lot. It’s actually an abbreviation of form of third party liability insurance, covering \3,000 (slightly lower for small slightly less for the term found on the Japanese road-worthiness the driver of the car for physical injuries to a small vehicles/motorcycles) but with the card document (see below). Every vehicle is required third party outside of the vehicle. Compulsory it’ll be 800. To get your card you’ll need to contact to undergo a legal inspection three years after Insurance is basic, so comprehensive optional your credit card company. It sits in a slot on your the original purchase date, and every two years liability insurance is strongly recommended. dashboard automatically communicating with thereafter. That is, after the third, fifth and sensors above the road and, traffic permitting, seventh year, and so on. Parking will make things all the swifter when you reach Something that often surprises first time car the toll gate. buyers in Japan is the necessity of getting a The road-worthiness test has permanent – registered – parking spot before Whether you need more advice on the two main aspects: being allowed to get your hands behind the wheel. basics, translation of insurance or other 1. Road Worthiness Inspection Test (ji-dou-sha-ken-sa) One of the biggest expenses and hassles of documents, or want someone to handle the 2. Government taxes: Compulsory Automobile owning a car in Tokyo, in fact, is seeking storage. tricky process of getting your vehicle inspected, Liability Insurance (ji-baiseki-ho-ken) and Vehicle If you are lucky enough to have parking included contact Tokyo Car Club, where Colin can set Weight Tax (juu-ryo-zei). with your apartment or home, you are already you up with what you need. TCC offers services halfway there. But if not, parking your car in and advice on all stages of car purchasing and These documents must be stored in the vehicle at Tokyo could run from around ¥30,000 to ¥60,000 ownership in Japan, including all of the points all times: In the event of an accident, the forms will a month, depending on where you live. At this mentioned above, and is able to source vehicles be subject to inspection by the traffic authorities point, are you wondering if “maybe it’s time for a directly from manufacturers – using extensive or police. While shaken may seem expensive really nice bicycle; something carbon and really industry contacts built up over the years – and and overly strict, it is the key to the widespread sporty?” We’d almost agree, but it isn’t quite the from a huge selection of vehicles from dealer- availability of cheap, well-maintained, older same as cruising out of town for the weekend in only auctions which are held on a daily basis or late model cars in Japan – it’s a meticulous the car, now is it? throughout Japan.

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Browse over 50,000 listings at www.realestate.co.jp Hiroshi Osaki MASTER OF CEREMONieS Yoshimoto Kogyo is a behemoth of the Japanese entertainment industry. Formed in 1912 as a theatre management company in Osaka, the business has grown to become one of the largest agencies in the world, boasting a roster of around 6,000 entertainers – some you’ll know, some you won’t.

iroshi Osaki is at the head it so much we wanted to come every year, but of the company as CEO and obviously couldn’t. So we launched a festival of Chairman as well as being our own.” the Committee President of The Okinawa Film Festival is now in its fifth Hthe Okinawa International Movie Festival, year and it has been steadily expanding since at which Weekender sat down with him its inception, with more artists, acts and films this month. We wanted to find out more than ever before in 2013. Further expansion about why an Osaka-based company was – not only in scale but in range of sectors it so interested in Naha. can influence – is planned for the future: Osaki credits one half of Yoshimoto’s “The first step would be to push it up a level most popular comedy double act as a as a film festival, but also as a place for press catalyst for the formation of the festival and filmmakers to spend time together and which has grown to a yearly event which network,” Osaki says. “Hopefully, I’d like to set takes over conference halls, a seafront up some kind of entertainment school here for park and beach to become one of the most the industry. For writers, cameramen, artists talked about events in Okinawa: (and) a wide range of producers in the creative “When Hitoshi Matsumoto’s ‘Big Man industry. A college set up, so people can produce Japan’ was invited to Cannes, I went to the and write films, write comic books, whatever.” festival and it made a big impression on me. It was a beautiful event and me and my staff had a lot I have to be of fun,” he says. “We liked careful when I come here, it’s a delicate balance, sometimes I love it, sometimes I say I’ll never come back again.

The ‘Owarai’ style of comedy is hugely popular in Japan and new ‘tarento’ (talent) spring up on a seemingly weekly basis, sometimes to enduring popularity but often to disappear as quickly as they arrived. Of the Yoshimoto schools currently training young hopefuls, Osaki says, “It’s not so much about teaching and learning, it’s more about providing an environment where people who are talented and interested in comedy can get together with a similar discipline or style, an environment so they can learn from each other and also become competitive with each other.” When discussing Okinawa and his company’s plans for the area, the agency president has a OKINAWA INTERNATIONAL MOVIE FESTIVAL | ENTERTAINMENT | 35

1 It’s not that we’re aiming for a big ceremonial red carpet event with stars and directors actually, what we’re trying to do is more loose and fun ... As long 1 1 as the locals like it, that’s what we want.

day. Though there is a clear focus on industry and creativity behind the scenes, this is a populist event at heart: © 2013 Okinawa International Movie Festival / Yoshimoto Laugh & Peace Laugh / Yoshimoto Festival Movie International © 2013 Okinawa “It’s not that we’re aiming for a big ceremonial red carpet event with stars and directors actually, what we’re trying to do is more loose and fun ... As long as the locals 1 Masi Oka speaks at the festival 2 Joel Shumacher on like it, that’s what we want.” It seems that a stage 3 Comedians and musicians entertained crowds lot of the categories and projects related to the between movies. Below: Atsuko Maeda on the red carpet festival are aimed at the people of Okinawa, “Everything is so centralised in Tokyo that surprisingly balanced perspective, not raving hardly gushing with reasons on why someone people tend to forget that there are other things about its qualities but recognising its untapped would want to start a festival here – perhaps going on outside, and even if they hear it they potential. Osaki has previously spoken to he can sense we don’t need to be persuaded… don’t really think about it, so its important to Hollywood Reporter magazine of his company’s “Well, Okinawa is the closest location in spotlight certain local communities and present desire to create an “Asian entertainment hub that Japan to the rest of Asia, so it’s a good place what’s going on.” can help sustain the island’s economy: ‘starting for everyone to get together and just have fun I wonder who Osaki’s personal favourites something from nothing in the desert, the way once a year.” There is the nub: filmmakers as are, starting with comedians within the Las Vegas was built.’” He has said he would like well as TV crews and journalists have come company, but he is diplomatic – and good- the islands to reduce their dependency on US just as far if they flew from Taiwan as from natured: “Everybody! Downtown, Ninety- military bases, which occupy a fifth of its land. Tokyo, for example, and we return briefly to nine, people like that...” The CEO, who cites Having first visited the islands 25 years the idea that the islands can be a ‘creative 80s legend John Belushi along with The Three ago as a new employee of Yoshimoto Kogyo, hub’ for Asia, not only for Japan. But there is Stooges as all-time influences, is not a stranger he doesn’t see Okinawan life as having greatly a caveat. to comedic performance himself, and is often improved over the years: “It’s a difficult question “I don’t mean to separate Okinawa from quite funny when put on stage and handed a to answer: ‘has life in general got better?’ ‘Has the Japanese mainland, but it has a very microphone – he even delivered some hilarious the quality of life got better?’ The problem of the distinctive history and, as you know, it was digs at Government officials who he feels have US base persists and still some people believe a battleground during the second world war, failed to support the festival during the closing that mainland Japan doesn’t care about Okinawa so there is a delicate relationship between ceremony. and they forget that (Okinawan people) are still Okinawa and mainland Japan. They always Looking at the festival’s competition, struggling with this problem, so there are good get the feeling that the ‘mainland Japanese’ which had two categories, ‘Laugh’ and bad points, pros and cons (to life here).” are barging in with their shoes on; I have to and ‘Peace’ we wondered where In regards to the base, a pragmatic solution be careful when I come here, it’s a delicate Osaki would place a film of his life, is favoured: “The relationship between Japan balance, sometimes I love it, sometimes I would it be a comedy or a drama? and the US needs to be sustained for various say I’ll never come back again.” “A slapstick comedy!” He seems other reasons, so it’s just a case that Okinawa This year the festival managed to enjoy the question: “Full of has all the bases, and they should be spread to attract Hollywood director missed opportunity and things out across Japan so that the burden is less for Joel Schumacher to take on the like that! Relationships, clients, Okinawa.” duty of Jury Head for the Special and other things, but it would Osaki-san is dressed down today (we meet Competition. When asked who he have a happy ending.” on the fourth day of the festival) and this look would like to get next year, Osaki It’s good to see that even is not uncommon; he can often be seen at the says, “I think it’s most important to within the strict corporate festival’s parties relaxing in a T-shirt and grey get who the Okinawan kids want world of Japan, the head of hoodie, a stark contrast to the typical image of to see!” This isn’t a surprising an agency for comedians can an upper level corporate boss. There is a buzz answer when you take into retain a sense of humour. around the festival that could perhaps not exist account the tremendous And who would play the CEO, anywhere else, but when asked for qualities crowds that have been Chairman and Organisation that make Okinawa special as a location Osaki present, in particular to Committee President’s is fairly low-key in his praise – it seems fitting, in attend the opening red leading lady? “Kyary Pamyu some ways, with what is a perceptively modest, carpet ceremony and Pamyu!” slow pace of life here: “The weather is nice, so the concerts and stage you can take a walk and enjoy the scenery.” He is appearances on the final by Christopher O’Keeffe © 2013 Okinawa International Movie Festival / Yoshimoto Laugh & Peace

Demon Kakka, Joel Schumacher, Kaori Momoi and Claude Gagnon, judges of the competition section of the Okinawa International Movie Festival PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES Tokyo’s Longest Running Society Page, with Bill Hersey

tarting this column sitting at a table on the terrace of a Starbucks film industry personalities. The long line of celebs ended up on a stage on on a busy corner of one of the busiest tourist attractions in the beach in front of the world’s largest movable outdoor screen, where they Okinawa’s Capital City: Kokusai Street, Naha. joined local dignitaries for the opening ceremony. All this was followed by I flew down to Okinawa for the 5th Okinawa International Movie the screening of the festival’s opening film, Warner Brothers’ Jack, the Giant Festival a few days ago and am really enjoying the laid back Slayer. The huge crowd of mostly Okinawans – all manner of people including ambianceS of the festival and the happy, hospitable and helpful people of families and quite a lot of kids – loved it all. That was great as one of the goals of Okinawa. I arrived on a lovely afternoon – much warmer than Tokyo in the organisers is to promote the bond between the festival and the Okinawan these months of course – and checked in at the luxurious Loisir Hotel, Spa people. Most of the films had English subtitles, and some had Chinese as and Resort in Naha. First thing was to get a car, and then I drove around a well – the whole thing felt very international, including the competition bit and sort of oriented myself to the layout of the city. section. Sponsors told me the festival was different than most: although this That evening I got together for a dinner hosted by Fox TV’s Dan Smith was an international festival, there were many events supported by the local for about a dozen friends. The restaurant, “Sauces” is owned by one of people of Okinawa. These included a fashion show on the beach, a concert by Dan’s former military buddies, and the Cajun style barbecued shrimp, ribs, Korean singer Kim Hyun Jong, comedy shows, sports events concerts by top fish and chicken really added up to one of best meals ever. It was a great Okinawan artists and dynamic traditional song and dance. evening in every way and actually turned out to be a great way to celebrate Special guests included Masi Oka (Heroes and Hawaii Five-O) who taught Matthew Ireton’s birthday. an acting class for Okinawan High School students; he’s often partied at the The festival officially opened on March 23 and continued through New Lex in Tokyo and was actually on the cover of Weekender back in 2009. to March 30; from the very beginning it was evident the main sponsor, There were special festival themed parties every night at which media and Yoshimoto Kogyo, the Okinawan people and all involved had really gone guests had a chance to meet and talk about the industry while having a really all out to make it very special. My first stop when I arrived at the venue, by fun time relaxing. I could only stay for three nights so just made it to the the beach just a short drive from the center of Naha, was the press center, opening night one at Laguna Garden Hotel; it was packed and I was amazed at where I ran into many journalists I knew – and some I didn’t; they had the number of friends I saw there. The food, especially the Okinawan cuisine, actually come from all over Asia to cover what really is a growing festival. was excellent. One of the highlights of the evening was a performance by one A couple of girls who I also knew from Tokyo took me under their wing of Okinawa’s top musical groups “The Boom”. The next day I went to the local and walked me to an excellent spot to see and photograph an almost two Tower Records and found their CD, Shimauta – mellow music I have been hour red carpet presentation that featured a wide variety of showbiz and listening to every day since.

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com 3 MAY 2013 MAY www.tokyoweekender.com Argentine amb. Raul Raul amb. 9. Argentine Peninsula Hotel GM, Hotel 7. Peninsula 6 11. The Al Otaibi sons, Khaled and Humood. PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | 37 | SOCIETY PARTIES, PEOPLE, 9 11 Malcolm Thompson, and his staff members Noriko Murata and Kohei Shimooka and Kohei Murata his staff members Noriko and Malcolm Thompson, Gammal Kikuko and his wife, Esmat 8. Egypt Tours’ Al Otaibi and Tsamados (Greece), Jamilah Dejean, Hala Al Otaibi, Yasmine and Kuwaiti Hala, Jamilah Koike, Yuriko Minister Dejean 10. Former Teresa Abdul Rahman Al Otaibi amb. Glittering Kuwaiti national day at the Imperial Hotel the Imperial at day national Kuwaiti Glittering Hannah Fitz and his wife Mark Brothers’ 6. Warner 10 5 2 Top DJ Guy DJ Guy 4. Top 4 1 8 7 Great British Invite Event at Tokyo Midtown Tokyo at Event British Invite Great and (center) Vishal Sinha and Korea, Japan for Manager 1. British Airways and Kimiko Inukai, Ikuo Nakazawa Katsutoshi Eiji Kawakami, his team, Tim Hitchens, crew members, British amb. 2. British Airways Watanabe crew member 3. Mr. and a BA Hunt, Jeremy British health minister, and Vishal Harvey Ashley Visit Britain manager Hitchens, Local models show the history of BA’s cabin crew uniforms. BA’s of Perryman the history 5. Local models show

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The 5th Okinawa International Movie Festival Joel Schumacher, his friend Greg, Bill and Charo Ireton at Sauces restaurant 5. Friends 1. Variety reporter Mark Schilling, freelance writer Jeff Hammond and correspondent from Walt Disney, Noriyasu Alex Ikeda, Keteruhiko Kimura and Tokura Akiyama 6. Ann Suvendrini Kakuchi 2. Kudo-san of Shogakukan publishing, Producer/Director Alkire. (It’s nice having her and husband John back in town) Kazuyuki Okuyama, film tycoon Tom Yoda, Yoshimoto Kogyo chairman/CEO Hiroshi Osaki, head of festival jury Joel Schumacher, musician/entertainer Demon Kaka, In and Around child actress and actress Kaori Momori 3. Bill and Korean pop group Code 3 4. 7. National Azabu Supermarket GM Dale Toriumi and Tabasco’s man in Japan Mark Shoko Maeshi of the Righa Royal hotel, Restaurant owner Reggie Dumas (back, left), Gleason 8. Indian amb. Deepa Gopalan Wadhwa with Hiroyasu Kobayashi, president of Mayumi Furuyama, Daisuke Yamamoto, FOX TV’s Dan Smith and Matthew Ireton, the Min-on Concert Assoc.

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | SOCIETY | 39

Big British Invite at my favorite Tokyo Mall, Midtown, recently. The many Here’s a few places well worth checking out in Naha itself: The American visitors really enjoyed the campaign, showcasing the very best of British Village is a well laid out “town” where American culture blends with shopping, food, music, culture, heritage and countryside. In addition to Okinawa. There are dozens of trendy boutiques, movie houses, eateries, enjoying the exhibits, I got to know most of the nice British Airways cabin hair salons, massage parlors, and a live house. Check out the Dr. Martens crew and staff working with the promo, held in Mumbai and Shanghai as shoe shop and the huge American depot for some real bargains if you are well as Tokyo. I really got to know them better at a small party I had for around here. Another great place to shop is the big ultra modern Main them at the New Lex the night before they left Japan. Special guests at the Place, in the heart of Naha. There’s lots of both men’s and women’s fashion opening ceremony included British ambassador Tim Hitchins, who was shops, excellent restaurants, and of course Starbucks. Kids will love the previously in Japan between 1985 and 1989 and really knows this country Namco Land and theaters there all first class. and its people. It was also nice seeing and hearing the cool sounds of one Back to Kokusai Street – it is long, lined with souvenir shops and of Tokyo’s top DJs, Guy Perryman, playing some great British music and restaurants and almost always busy. It is a great place to meet and talk checking out the exhibition. with the locals who shop at the near by public markets. I also got into Guests moved upstairs to The Ritz Carlton Ballroom for refreshments, the spiritual world near Naha when I visited some the sacred caves and socializing and the opportunity to win a pair of round trip tickets on meditated at a few power and worship spots. British Airways to London. At the Reception I also learned from the airline’s My last night was great. Joined Bill and Charo Ireton, Joel Schumacher, man in Japan and Korea, Vishal Sinha, that visitors to the event had a his assistant Greg and a few Yoshimoto Kogyo people for dinner at a chance of winning travel packages to London, accommodation and even a marvelous old house on the side of a hill. The Okinawan food was really fashion makeover at iconic fashion house, Temperley. Vishal told me about good. When you go to the island and want to check up current happenings, the attractive fares on offer and I thought it seems a great time to plan a pick up a copy of This Week in Okinawa and Okinawa Nightlife! holiday to Britian. He also reminded me of BA’s motto, “To Fly, To serve” – I Really wish I could have stayed longer, but I had to get back to Tokyo am planning to take advantage of all this later this year so will let you know. for the re-opening of the Kabuki theater and a Min-on performance of the ShenYang Acrobatic Troupe of China. Congrats to Yoshimoto Kogyo’s Kuwaiti Celebration at the Imperial Hotel chairman/CEO, Mr. Osaki, his staff and the people of Okinawa: “The land Once again Jamilah Al-Otaibi, wife of the ambassador of Kuwait, Abdul of song, dance and laughter”. Hope to get back there soon. Rahman Al-Ottaibi, proved what a creative lady she is. To celebrate the national day of Kuwait she really worked with her staff and the banquet Back in Tokyo staff at the Imperial to transform the venue into an Arabic wonderland. Indian Ambassador Deepa Gopalan Wadhwa was only posted to Japan a The popular hosting couple wore traditional Kuwaiti fashion; he wore short time before she hosted a marvelous reception at the Okura Hotel. black, white and gold and she a beautiful silver, gold and black dress. Their The occasion was the celebration of their company’s 64th Republic Day! children were all dressed for the occasion as well. Their older son, Humood, No problem as she served as ambassador to Qatar and her husband is who goes to school in Australia, wore a tux and had a new trendy hairstyle. Indian ambassador to Thailand. The Indian food was excellent and, like His brother, Khaled, wore a well-tailored suit and tie. Their daughter, Hala, the traditional dance show, colorful and exciting. who always is the epitome of chic fashion, wore an Arabic style flower print Happy I had the opportunity to introduce the ambassador to Hiroyasu dress and the latest in fashionable makeup. As I mentioned, the family are Kobayashi, the President of Min-on concert Association at an earlier very popular and it was wall-to-wall people in the hotel’s huge Peacock party. In a relatively short time, Min-on, who are leaders in international Room. I had to leave early and didn’t see the Otaibi’s youngest daughter, cultural exchanges, brought a wonderful Indian show that featured top Hessa. She’s an adorable child who loves to be around people and I’m dancers and musicians in a concert, titled Creative Integration of Indian sure she was there somewhere in the crowd. People I did see who I hadn’t Dance. It was a beautiful show, perfect for both the celebration of Min- seen for a long time included politician Yuriko Koike, who studied in Cairo on’s 50th anniversary and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations and from what I hear speaks perfect Arabic. Egypt expert Esmet Gammal between India and Japan. and his wife were also there. Esmet had a travel agency, Egypt Tours, and The Indian Embassy in Kudan offers some of the best Sakura viewing arranged to have me invited there several times for some really spectacular in Tokyo. For several days Ambassador Wadhwa shared the awesome events including Frank Sinatra’s concert in front of the Sphinx. Esmet is view from the terrace of the Embassy with many friends of India. I was a good man and a great friend. Other good friends at the Kuwaiti evening out of the city at that time, but friends who were there said it was a very included the Peninsula Hotel’s G.M., Malcolm Thompson, with two of his special and festive event. staff. Happy to hear Malcolm, by the way, is not leaving Tokyo as I’d heard, and will be here “for some time to come.” If you’re down the Peninsula British Airways and Visit Britain promo at Midtown way I suggest you check out their new steakhouse, which replaced Great Britain, as we all well remember, did a great job on the French restaurant Peter’s but which has kept the same their many major events in last year or so. On a smaller name. It’s good healthy food at its best. scale, but still dynamic and well done, there was the two day

Toshiko Yanai, Hisako Uemura, Sadako Nagano Mark Fritz’s cool dad, George, and son Conrad The Franciscan Chapel’s Father, Bill Grimm, and Prime Minister Abe’s mother in law Emiko with Mark at Hiroo Segafredo takes a break at Segafredo Matsuzaki at the Grand Hyatt

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 40 | WEEKENDER | EXPAT LIFE

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com BILL HERSEY | SOCIETY | 41

WHEN BILL MET JOEL Bill Hersey found time for a chat with an old friend, director Joel Schumacher, back in Tokyo after the pair had caught up for dinner on the fringes of the Okinawa International Movie Festival in March.

y life’s an open book,” Joel said, starting proceedings at an open table with journalists outside Naha, where he had been invited to head the competition jury after being tipped by Warner Brothers Japan. He’s laid back guy who knows so much, and he loves sharing a good anecdote Mabout the business. Back at the Grand Hyatt, though, I ask him to start from the beginning: “Well, I worked when I was nine, smoked when I was 10 and lost my virginity to an older boy when I was 11.” Schumacher, who I first got to know when he was here with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1997 to promote Batman and Robin, was born and pretty much grew up in New York City, lost his father when he was four and says his mother worked six days a week to support the family. He spent most of his free time at a big theater in his neighborhood, and it was there he developed an insatiable love for films – especially adult films, he says. As a child, he also built marionettes, made up stories and performed plays that included music and dance. His student days were spent at the Parsons School of Design in the Big Apple. He worked in fashion there for a while and it was in fact this that enabled him to finally follow his love for film – he made the move to L.A. and secured costume design work before his screenplays started to gain attention, and TV work followed. His career was already well on track when he earned an MFA from UCLA. His film debut was The Incredible Shrinking Woman, in 1981, followed by two successful “Brat Pack” works: St. Elmo’s Fire and The Lost Boys. When asked what his favorite films were, he told me “My favorite is the eight-hour Russian production of War and Peace, which took ten years to produce and had the cast age naturally. I also love Great Expectations, Battleship Potemkin and Lawrence of Arabia.” I heard one of his current projects is a Chinese film but he says: “That’s something I can’t talk about now, but if I do it, it won’t be a Jackie Chan or Jet Li style film.” Joel’s a multi-talented guy with a great sense of humor. It seems he’s pretty much always been out of the closet and I remember when a reporter from one of a US gossip weekly asked him about this. His answer? “I really can’t understand why any of your readers would be interested in the sex life of a 60-something year-old man!” Joel had nothing but raves for the Okinawa Movie Festival, where he “saw a lot of good films, met so many interesting people, made a lot of new friends, enjoyed all the parties and events and was amazed at the closing ceremony, with so many people, the music, dancing and fireworks.” It was nice to hear Joel say that in his job, “you always hope you’ve not made your best movie yet.” I really look forward to seeing more from one of my favorite directors.

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 MOVIES Coming to a cinema near you in MAY

MAY 25 The Place Around the Pines he Place Beyond the Pines stars the hugely popular Ryan Gosling, who it seems is Timpossible to escape at the moment – he’s also in this month’s Gangster Squad, though with somewhat fewer tattoos. Also featuring here is Bradley Cooper, who is riding high after the success of Silver Linings Playbook. Gosling plays a motorcycle stunt rider, Luke Glanton, who tries to settle down when he discovers he has a son, but things are never simple. Drawn into committing a series of heists by using his motorcycle skills to escape the crime scene, the young man comes under the attention of ambitious rookie cop, Cooper’s Avery Cross. Eva Mendes stars as Glanton’s lover and Ray Liotta plays a corrupt detective in a crime thriller that also looks at the nature of the father- son relationship. The film explores around 17 years of the lives of two families whose paths cross and influence one another and director Derek Cianfrance has been called ambitious for bringing to the screen a ‘trilogy’ of a movie with distinct parts that have been brought together into one 140 minute work. Part of that distinction comes from stylistic cinematography and smart design and acting – this will be an engrossing watch for those interested in the technicalities of movie making as much as for fans of crime drama.

APR 5 OBLIVION MAY 25 fter super heroes dominated 2012, this year will be huge for sci-fi fans. AThere are four blockbusters up for release, all original stories starring some of the biggest names on the planet: After Earth, starring Will Smith, Elysium, starring Matt Damon and director Guilermo del Toro’s giant monster vs. Gundam-esque mega-robot beat-em-up, Pacific Rim. First is Oblivion, Stoker with action veteran Tom Cruise. After an Antiviral almost apocalyptic war, the earth has been his is the latest film by Korea’s biggest ntiviral is the first feature film from evacuated, except for Cruise’s repairman, name director, Chan-wook Park, the Brandon Cronenburg and it looks Jack. As the end of his shift approaches – man behind the unforgettable Oldboy. as if the young director is following T with it the chance to get off the abandoned A This is the director’s first attempt at an English in his legendary father’s footsteps. In a planet – a spacecraft carrying a beautiful language film, but it sticks to his signature style celebrity obsessed world where people woman crashes, leading him on a journey of of intricate, brutal plots and sublime images. will do anything to emulate their favourite discovery. The film also stars former Bond Alice in Wonderland’s Mia Wasikowska stars star, a bizarre sounding clinic caters to girl Olga Kurilenko and Morgan Freeman. as India Stoker, a young girl living with her odd desires by harvesting sicknesses from unstable mother (Nicole Kidman) and uncle MAY 25 the famous to be injected into clients who after the death of her father. At first India wish to feel closer to their idols. Into this is cold towards the mysterious uncle, who set-up comes Syd March, a young man until recently she didn’t know existed, until who hosts and smuggles diseases to sell to eventually a relationship of sorts develops pirates. He gets more than he bargained between the two. Foreign directors can have for when infected with the disease that mixed results when they make the leap to the kills superstar Hannah Geist. As he begins US but with this dark thriller Park has retained to experience the bizarre effects of the the high quality of his previous work with the mystery disease, he must race to discover added gloss of a Hollywood product. just what, exactly, he’s suffering from.

MAY 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com SHOWING THIS MONTH | SCREEN | 43

MAY 3 MAY 3

Gangster Squad The Evil Dead et in 1940s LA, when the mobsters from the east coast am Raimi’s classic horror yarn The Evil Dead was made were beginning to make inroads in Nevada and southern on a shoe-string budget back in 1981 and told the tale SCalifornia, this thriller stars Sean Penn as Brooklyn-born mob Sof four young people terrorised by demonic forces in a king Mickey Cohen. He’s a ruthless killer who seemingly cannot be cabin in the woods. The film was a huge success, spawning stopped, such is his control over local government and the police, two sequels and kick-starting the career of the director, but this film brings us the story of how one supposedly secret group who would go on to make the Spider-man trilogy, creating of “LAPD outsiders” forms a challenge to his authority. There’s the a B-movie star of fan-boy favourite, Bruce Campbell. This expected corruption, plenty of murders, some fairly stylish hats, of remake, for which Raimi and Campbell act as producers, course, and a little ‘bending’ of history here. The film looks more takes the original plot and aims to put a new spin on it. at the cops than the men who chased the money and finally did for There’s been a lot of remakes of horror classics in recent Cohen and Al Capone, but that will not be enough to bother fans years – it’s hard to keep track of all the versions of The Texas with an insatiable desire for this kind of thing. As well as Penn, Chainsaw Massacre that have been put out – but this one the talented cast includes Ryan Gosling as Sgt. Jerry Wooters, Josh looks a cut above. Director Fede Alvarez has been scoring Brolin as fellow cop, Sgt. John O’Mara and Emma Stone (pictured praise overseas for his gory and terrifying return to the above) as Grace Faraday. woods. A must see for all Deadites.

www.tokyoweekender.com MAY 2013 AGENDA 1

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6 AGENDA: THE WEEKENDER ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MARCH

1 MAY 9 2 MAY 11-12 3 MaY 10 - JUN 15 4 MAY 11 Jake Bugg Ozzfest Powerful Love by Paul van Dyk Teenage UK singer- Featuring Slipknot and Jad Fair The German artist may have songwriter is topping (most of) Black Sabbath as Half Japanese co-founder sold millions of albums, but the charts with his acoustic indie headliners – get ready to rock. can do more than sing - go check out his super-DJ vibes still sound best in sounds. Time: 22:30 - late | Tickets: ¥14,000 his intricate paper-cutting art. a major nightclub. Time: 18:00 (doors) | Tickets: ¥5,000 (adv) (one day) / 27,000 (two days) Tickets: Free Time: 13:00 - 19:00 Time: 23:00 (doors) | Tickets: ¥4,000 Venue: Club Quattro, Shibuya Venue: Makuhari Messe Venue: Hiromart Gallery, Waseda Venue: AgeHa, Shin Kiba More info: www.creativeman.co.jp More info: www.ozzfestjapan.com More info: http://hiromartgallery.com More: www.ageha.com

5 MAY 8-16 6 MAY 25 7 MAY 17-19 8 MAY 18-19 Kraftwerk Shimokita Sound Sanja Matsuri Greenroom Festival A chronological voyage Cruising Tokyo’s biggest traditional Jazz Soil & “Pimp” through eight of their Amongst others, festival will parade colossal Sessions, Newton Faulkner, albums - very few tickets remain, 80KIDZ and DeDe Mouse will portable shrines in the streets of Brand New Heavies and others but you may still have a chance. rock dozens of venues across Asakusa. will bring the easy-going vibes to Time: 18:00 (May 11 16:00) Shimokitazawa. Time: 13:00 (Fri)/10:00 (Sat) /6:00 (Sun) Yokohama. Tickets: ¥8,500/¥9,500 Time: Various | Tickets: ¥3,800 (day)/ Tickets: Free Time: 12:00 - 21:00 | Tickets: ¥9,000- ¥16,000 Venue: Akasaka Blitz ¥3,500 (night)/ ¥6,000 (both) Venue: Asakusa Shrine, Asakusa Venue: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse More: www.udo.jp Venue: Various More: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: http://greenroom.jp/ More: www.soundcruising.jp

APRIL 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com MAY | AGENDA | 45 MAY

11 Get the party started with the classic Outback Blooming Onion

The Bloomin’ Burger® A mouth watering burger topped with Outback’s own Bloomin’ Onion® petals, 12 American cheese, lettuce, tomato and the famous Bloomin’ Onion sauce.

9 MAY 18-19 10 MAY 10 Design Festa Richie Hawtin Your senses will be An influential figure in Outback Special with stimulated by crafty the second wave of Detroit Grilled Shrimp creations from a mix of professional techno, he’ll be taking over Womb Our signature sirloin is seasoned and amateur artists. until the wee hours. with bold spices and seared just Time: 11:00-19:00 | Tickets: ¥1,000 (one Time: 123:00 (doors) right. For even more flavor why day) ¥1,800 (two days) | Venue: Tokyo Big Tickets: ¥3,500 not add on some grilled shrimp. Sight | More info: www.designfesta.com Venue: Womb| Info: www.womb.co.jp

11 MAY 19 12 MAY 30 Outlook Festival Tyler, The Creator Hailing from Croatia, The feud-prone hip-hop the festival will present artist will rhyme about dubstep forefathers Skream and fame, money and death. Benga as headliners. Time: 18:00 (doors) Time: 14:00-22:00 | Tickets: ¥4,800 (adv) Tickets: ¥6,000 (adv.) Venue: Ageha Venue: Liquidroom Ebisu Info: www.outlookfestival.jp More: www.liquidroom.net

www.tokyoweekender.com APRIL 2013 BACK IN THE DAY: MAY 1988 Check out the scene in Tokyo from 1988! You can read the rest of this issue (No.20 1988) and view Weekender’s 42 year archive online. www. tokyoweekender.com/weekender-archives/