August 2013

Japan’s number one English language magazine SETTING SAIL FINDING OUR SEA LEGS IN TOKYO BAY

Interview YUSUKE ISEYA oN HIS AMBITIOUS REBIRTH PROJECT

MT. FUJI IS UNESCO TAg A CURSE? TOKYO 2020 The SPRINT FOR THE FINISH LINE

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Top news from Asia Daily Wire, a bonsai bounty, keeping cool in the pool, Tokyo events and more... August 2013 CONTENTS 16

INTERVIEW: YUSUKE ISEYA The superstar model-turned-actor is changing the way we help others. ASIAN TIGERS 14 22 30

IS UNESCO TAG A CURSE? Save that shark Blockbuster season Mt. Fuji is in the news more than ever, and Meeting the locally based ‘artivists’ It must be August – and we’re not too far is celebrating... But should it be? aiming to eradicate a brutal practise. behind the rest of the world...

7 Asia Daily Wire 10 Cover Story: Yachting in Tokyo Bay 18 Culture: Bonsai Bonanza Could Japan have a new US ambassador Even rising at 6am on a Sunday morning The annual Bonsai Fair in Azabu is back, from rather well-known stock? was worth it for this experience. and they even let it grow a little...

8 Tokyo 2020? The Bids Are In... 12 Cool Pools 24 People, Parties, Places We know who we’re getting behind, but Seeking summer solace by the pool, Our own Lone Ranger about town bumps which city deserves it most? without leaving Tokyo. into a few old friends. 9 Sport: Stars of the Future? 15 On the Download 32 Agenda Talking of 2020, this pair could be genuine Meeting the ‘anonymous’ bilingual An outdoor festival vibe to proceedings, contenders for track gold on home soil. podcasters at the top of the charts. whatever happens to be your cup of tea. FROM THE EDITOR Your Move. Our World.

In a few weeks, depending on when you are reading this, Tokyo August 2013 will know whether it has been chosen to host the 2020 Olympics. Whichever way the IOC decision goes there will be celebration; in Publisher Bulbous Cell Media Group these parts we’re well up for a Tokyo Games but there is a section of Chairman Ray Pedersen society – though perhaps less vociferous in recent months – which is not behind the bid, citing financial problems and suggesting there Executive Producer Asi Rinestine are other more important things to get in order before we start Editor Matthew Holmes thinking about matters of sport… We asked our regular columnist Art Director Liam “Big Dog” Ramshaw and contributor, Henry Watts, to look at some of the pros and Designer Ayako Fujiwara cons of hosting a Tokyo Olympics – and indeed of the plausibility/ Illustrator Liam Akin popularity of the Madrid and Istanbul bids – and you can read a roundup of his research and thoughts on page 8. Media Director Kotaro Toda Account Executives Nobu (Nick) Nakazawa We hope there’ll be a few years of hard work and planning Ohad Elbaz after the September 7 announcement, and that we don’t have to see Masaya Okamoto another return to the drawing board! Next, to our cover story. We were glad to have a writer invited Media Consultants Mary Rudow Marketing Ingrid Dubreuil along to find out just how it feels to unfurl the sails and get involved in a yacht race out in Tokyo Bay. It does sound like a fantastic way to Strategic Consultant Andy Maher enjoy our surroundings and though quite honestly there aren’t too many of us in the office who envied his 6am Sunday morning start, Society Bill Hersey we were fairly jealous when we read the story for the first time; it’s Film Christopher O’Keeffe definitely got more than a few of us thinking about getting involved and getting out there some time in the near future. Editorial Associates Vivian Morelli C To matters inland, and UNESCO’s decision to award World Matthew Hernon M Heritage status to Mt. Fuji, which might have ramifications Henry Watts unforeseen. Writer Phil Colquhoun reckons not everything will be Y Asia Daily Wire Mace Bertumen smooth for local business owners in Yamanashi and Shizuoka, and CM that they will have to learn lessons from a recent past in which parts IT Manager Nick Adams MY of Japan have struggled after being given the tag. Development Manager Stephane Boudoux Lastly, we’re pleased to announce a few major changes – and Fondue Guru Paul Romelot CY Full Relocation Finance & Admin Sakura Arimura minor behind the scenes tweaks – to our website that will allow you DBA Iryna Sundutova CMY to more easily enjoy reading and navigating through our content K online. Please do have a look, I’m pretty sure you’ll be happy with Services anywhere what you find. Oh, and have a great summer break! EST. Corky Alexander, 1970 in the world. Published by Bulbous Cell Media Group www.bulbouscell.com

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AugusT 2013

Japan’s number one English language magazine To us, every move is unique. SETTING Follow Tokyo Weekender on Twitter: SAIL FINDING OUR SEA LEGS IN TOKYO BAY @weekenderjapan Please visit www.asiantigers-japan.com or IntervIew Like us on Facebook: YUSUKe ISeYA on HIS AMBItIoUS reBIrtH ProJeCt

Mt. FUJI www.facebook.com/tokyo.weekender IS UneSCo tAg A CUrSe? contact us at [email protected] toKYo 2020 tHe SPrInt For tHe FInISH LIne Fried Sushi by Liam Akin. To see more of Liam’s work check out www.friedsushi.net ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Top news from Asia Daily Wire, a bonsai bounty, keeping cool in the pool, Tokyo events and more... Customer Hotline: 03-6402-2371 w

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, Former CIA head: Huawei spying for sports and breaking news, Asia Daily Wire is updated round the China clock in real time and picks and chooses the best headlines from Michael Hayden Asources across Asia—doing all the hard work for you. Here is a roundup of accused telecom some of the ADW editor’s picks from the past month... giant Huawei of supplying the Chinese government with Caroline Japanese “intimate and extensive knowledge of the foreign Kennedy husbands’ telecommunications systems it is involved in.” nominated as spending slumps He said it was his “professional judgement” that ambassador to to 30-year low Huawei is a significant threat to Australia and the US, and that intelligence agencies have evidence Japan The average of its clandestine activities. Barack Obama has monthly allowance nominated Caroline Kennedy, the daughter for Japanese husbands slumped to ¥38,457, Angry tigers trap of former US President John F. Kennedy, the lowest level since 1982, at the start of the men up a tree for for the role of ambassador to Japan. If country’s financial year. Salarymen’s spending three days confirmed by the Senate, Kennedy would be money plunged 3% from last year to less than Five Indonesian the first woman to serve as envoy to Japan half the 1990 peak, according to a report by men, allegedly and would go into her highest-profile public Shinsei Bank Ltd. poachers, were role to date. Chinese museum trapped up a tree in a national park on Head teacher found with fake Sumatra island for over three days when arrested over exhibits angry tigers chased and surrounded the group after mauling another man to death. deadly Indian A Chinese museum The men had reportedly killed a tiger cub school meal was forced to while “searching for rare incense wood” in Police arrested the close down after the Gunung Leuser National Park. head teacher at authorities said most of its collections a school in India where 23 children died of were fake. The museum, curated by a local Asiana drops food poisoning after a free lunch was served. Communist Party official, had boasted an defamation case Reports say vegetable oil used to prepare extensive collection worth 50 million-yuan over “racist” pilot the food was contaminated with toxic levels ($8.1 million), including artifacts supposedly names of insecticide. It was believed to have been engraved 4,000 years ago, during the Yellow Asiana Airlines bought from the teacher’s husband, who filled Emperor’s reign. dropped plans to sue a container previously used to store pesticide. 17 killed in a US television station that aired fake and racially Six men stampede after offensive names for four pilots involved in a fatal convicted for boxing match in crash in San Francisco. The network offered Swiss tourist Indonesia its own apology, blaming a summer intern for “erroneously confirming” the ‘Korean-sounding’ gang rape At least 17 people names: “Sum Ting Wong,” “Wi Tu Lo,” “Ho Lee A court in India has were trampled to Fuk,” and “Bang Ding Ow.” sentenced six men death and 39 injured after riots broke out accused of the gang rape of a Swiss tourist to among boxing fans in an overcrowded life terms. The men, aged between 22 and 30, stadium in Indonesia. A dispute over assaulted the 39-year-old woman while she scoring erupted after the losing fighter’s was camping with her husband in a forest in supporters threw chairs at the judges For all the top news of 2013 or to the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh in while the winner’s camp hurled bottles, read more on these stories, visit: March this year. triggering a deadly stampede. www.asiadailywire.com

APRIL 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com 8 | NEWS | OLYMPICS

Weaknesses of the message and delivery of it,” While public support has increased in he said. “The star of the day was Istanbul more recent polls, there does seem to be the prince. It was his content, his “Bridge Together” a lack of any deep enthusiasm to host the delivery, his genuineness.” The glamour the Spanish 83% support (76% in Turkey) Games. When the IOC polled Tokyoites in heir brought to the presentations May, the support rate was only 47 percent, contrasts with the low-cost, Strengths versus 78 percent in Madrid and 73 percent no-risk message his team’s bid Turkey presents the IOC’s in Istanbul. One reason for this might represents – “a realistic bid for best opportunity to take the be because, as one commentator at the realistic times,” they say – in Olympic Movement to previously Lausanne presentations said, the bid “lacks what looks like an Olympics unchartered territory. a compelling back-story and is, to put it for austerity and the economic The Istanbul team claim bluntly, a bit dull”. zeitgeist. A relatively low budget Turkey can “foster global At the presentations in Lausanne, is feasible in the main because understanding and inclusiveness Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso spoke of 80 percent of the facilities are by being the first secular Muslim how the Olympics was a chance for Japan already built. country to host the Games”. to show the world it has stood up and Though its secularism has been recovered from the disaster that afflicted Weaknesses on the wane of late, the more it in 2011. While this is no doubt true, The team has tried hard to present idealistic members of the IOC appealing to the misfortunes of those in itself as financially capable of could well see a chance in Istanbul Tohoku and Fukushima to bring the glitz hosting the Olympics with a very to use the Games to transcend and of the Olympics to Tokyo is, to say the least, small budget, but it is hard to perhaps even mitigate perceived Need for Speed understate the crisis the Spanish a little cheap. It is, nonetheless, very much clashes of civilizations, with and economy has been in for the last a feature of the Olympic Movement and within the Middle East. five years; it very nearly joined Could these be the sprinters who cross the line bringing commercial sports more generally to affix Given that Turkey’s economy the gang of damned European glorious home gold for Japan in 2020? messages of worth and virtue to the actions is now one of the fastest growing economies that needed a bail- of athletes, and thus it might not be enough in the world, Istanbul is more out, has seen continuous anti- for Tokyo simply to be ready and well- BACKING ready than it has been in any of its wo of the most exciting sprinters in the world right now, government protests in response organised for the Olympics. to deep austerity cuts and has 27 five previous bids. Transportation Ryota Yamagata (above, left) and Yoshihide Kiryu (right) have percent unemployment. Given the infrastructure and sports facilities Tshown with their performances in the 100m this season that Madrid fragile economy, one could hardly are still relatively under- they have all the ingredients to go right to the top in a sport Jamaican THE BID?by Henry Watts say there was “no-risk” in the IOC developed, but the campaign and American athletes dominate. “Illuminate The Future” On September 7 in Buenos Aires the investing in Madrid. It remains team have done well to show While the Japanese pair may not be ready to challenge Usain 76% support (81% in Spain) to be seen whether members will how the Olympic Movement can Bolt on the podium just yet, there is a growing belief that one or International Olympic Committee Tokyo leave a lasting legacy with these possibly both of them could go under 10 seconds at this summer’s “Discover Tomorrow” give Spain the leg-up it, and the (IOC) will announce the winning Strengths Eurozone, needs, which, given the investments, particularly for the World Championships in Moscow, set to begin on August 10, and candidate city as host for the 2020 70% public support (67% in wider Japan) Largely counted out in the early stages doubts over the Brazil World Cup region’s young people. put in motion an even higher profile career that could peak ata Olympic Games from between Madrid, of the campaign on account of its crisis- in 2014 as a result of widespread potential Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020. protests against bad government It would be particularly special if Kiryu, still in High School, Istanbul and Tokyo, in what will be Strengths hit economy, Madrid is now a serious Weaknesses The biggest strength of the Tokyo bid is in its contender, following an impressive priorities, might not be what the Earlier this year, the IOC might could achieve that feat. He became the fastest 17-year-old on the either a second consecutive failed apparent ability to deliver a well-funded, safe performance at the presentations in IOC wants. Another troublesome just have considered giving planet early this year, running an astonishing 10.01 at the Oda bid by Tokyo, or a glorious return of and secure Games without any of the instability Lausanne last month in which Crown Prince area for Madrid is IOC president Turkey the benefit of the doubt Memorial meet: a time that made a certain Jamaican take note. “When I heard (about the time) I was slightly surprised,” said the summer Games to Japan for the saddling the other two bids. In a technical IOC Felipe – a former Olympic sailor – gave an Jacques Rogge’s hinting at giving over security concerns. Now, a smiling Bolt at the Cayman Invitational press conference. “They first time since 1964. Following the report released in June, Tokyo was noted for its apparently illustrious speech. Dick Pound of more equity between continents, however, security seems very always say a great athlete comes along every decade ... It’s great capital reserves as well as for being “a modern, the IOC weighed in again: “If you’re grading which would seemingly now much to be Istanbul’s elephant IOC inspections in Tokyo this March disadvantage a European bid. to see athletes stepping up from all over the world; it shows that dynamic city” with “one of the most modern and performance, Madrid did the best in terms in the room, as well as, surely, and a presentation to IOC members anything is possible.” efficient” transport systems in the world. And Prime Minister Tayyip Erdoğan’s the IOC can be pretty sure there will not be any All eyes were on Kiryu as he lined up for the Japan Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland, in July, the ham-fisted attempts to quash protesting in Tokyo. in June, but it was Keio University student Yamagata who won the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) has nationwide protests. Referring to the failed 2016 bid, the Tokyo race, with a time of 10.11 seconds. now done nearly all the campaigning The force of Erdoğan’s campaign team has said it aims to “keep The 21-year-old reached the semi-finals of the 100m at the government against what started and ingratiating it can. As clichéd as the best and improve the rest”. Thus it has London Olympics; the question now is whether he can go that one out as small, peaceful protests has it sounds, the race is pretty tight. The continued to boast about its ability to hold “an stage further in the Worlds. Koji Ito, who currently holds the Japan ignited the public and broadened national record with a time of 10.00 seconds, believes that Yamagata IOC’s Evaluation Committee has said environmentally cleaner event in a compact area”, as well as its being “a world leader in anti- the criticism against him, but the has what it takes to compete with the big boys in Moscow. (albeit predictably) that “each one of doping” that can offer a model of “clean sport”. protestors initially demanded “I expect him to progress past the early rounds,” he told the candidate cities could host perfect The latter will hold particular sway for IOC only to stop the demolition of Weekender. “His goal is to reach the latter stages and that is certainly Games”, with veteran IOC member members given recent revelations, with sprinters Gezi Park – one of Istanbul’s few possible. I think he has the power to go under 10 seconds.” Dick Pound saying it was genuinely Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell- remaining green spaces – for “It has already been a hard year for Kiryu with so many races, redevelopment; all this, of course, but I think the World Championships will be a fantastic experience the closest race he could remember Brown having failed tests for banned substances. The bid also addresses IOC concerns from before large-scale construction for him,” said Ito. “In the past we have had some domestic runners – partly because “all the bids had 2007 about whether there would be enough space for the Olympics has even begun. with great potential, but they struggled when asked to perform obvious strengths and weaknesses” by planning to build the Olympic Village – in The IOC would surely not wish on an international stage. Now with so many World Junior meets Harumi, Chuo ward – about 13 hectares bigger for the Olympics to add to the youngsters like Kiryu have a better chance of making the step up.” Neither Kiryu nor Yamagata expect a medal at this year’s World than that proposed for 2016. The Village has grievances of the people of Championships, but as they get older, they will get stronger. Both been praised also for its proximity to the sporting Istanbul, as the 2014 World Cup should be close to their peak around the time of the Games in 2020 – venues; it is within 8km of 28 of the 35 proposed has for many Brazilians. More what price an 100m Olympic Gold on home soil? venues. Public support for the Games has also risen risk-averse IOC members may from only 56 percent in 2007 – a big issue for the bid therefore opt for Tokyo. by Matthew Hernon then – to 70 percent this year.

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com SAILING | FEATURE | 11

1 “Slowly sailing towards the open ocean with the sea breeze blowing against A DAY our faces, this was a chance for everyone to

2 unwind and compose 3 ourselves before things AT THE RACES started to get serious”

Getting my Sea Legs with the Tokyo Yacht Club back of the boat. It’s all hands to the pump as the horn goes off, signaling By Matthew Hernon the commencement of battle. There are different competitions 1 Gathering pace in the Tokyo Bay breeze 2 Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line in the distance 3 Not everyone makes it look depending on the class of the boat; like hard work. we are in one of the slower races, though it feels pretty quick to me. Smashing through the waves is quite Yumenoshima, where things get sailing towards the open ocean with an adrenaline rush as I hang on to going, is a ten-minute walk from the sea breeze blowing against our the side, knowing that one small slip Shin-Kiba station and an area with faces, this was a chance for everyone could put me in the water. a large sports park, a museum, to unwind and compose ourselves That certainly didn’t seem to faze a tropical greenhouse dome, before things started to get serious any of the crew, who each focused all eucalyptus trees and a huge marina – with a main race every month of their attention on getting over the with hundreds of boats that come and other specials throughout the finish line at the front of the pack. in all shapes and sizes, from one- summer, it’s clear these guys love to Things were looking good, our boat man fishing boats to extravagant compete. was in the lead by a few lengths but it and sleek millionaire’s yachts. It is As we sailed out further, the seemed it would be tight. As captain quite a place, and I was surprised to views became more spectacular. Masakazu Kojima glanced round to discover that it was originally built Disneyland and Disney Sea in the see how close the opposition was, he using waste landfill as a potential background, Tokyo Skytree and the knew that one small mistake could solution to Tokyo’s garbage problems huge new Tokyo Gate Bridge up cost his team victory. in the 1950s. ahead, Japan’s capital looks even Fortunately, the team was on fire, Covered over with what I guess more special when viewed from a holding on and eventually pulling is more than just a top layer of soil, boat. According to the crew, Mt. Fuji ahead to record their first win of the there was no Tokyo trash in sight as can also be seen on clear days, but year – making it seem easy in the I took a rather pleasant stroll around by now unfortunately this wasn’t end… I was christened a good luck the Marina – and got directions one of them. charm, though I wouldn’t want to take from a sole dog walker – before I That didn’t dampen the all of the credit! I think the success met up with the team. They made enthusiasm, however. There was a may have been more to do with strong me feel at home right away and great deal of excitement in the air as tactics, a coordinated worth ethic and seemed genuinely delighted to be we got closer to the start line. More good leadership skills. welcoming another member. I than anything these race meetings The second race was cancelled just hoped they weren’t expecting are about having fun, but that due to strong winds so we decided It’s 6am on a Sunday morning, an early start on an already much of me! doesn’t mean there isn’t an edge to have a beer on board as we excruciatingly hot day, and I’m feeling a little apprehensive; After a brief captain’s to them. Having not won all headed back to the Marina for lunch I am about to take part in my first ever yacht race. With no meeting (the main point of year, our team, Junior Seven, and a trophy presentation in the boating experience whatsoever, surely all I will be doing is order was a discussion on was determined to grab a first large clubhouse that is scattered I lodging protests and an getting in the way? victory. with plaques commemorating past As it turned out after I reached the marina to which I’d been invited by agreement that races might It’s not long before the successes. It was a great way to finish Tokyo Yacht Club, that was probably all I did end up doing. I certainly didn’t be cancelled in case of bad warning buzzer sounds, what had been a wonderful day with contribute much to the outcome of the race, yet in the spirit of things, that weather), it was time to indicating five minutes lots of excitement and a great bunch really didn’t seem to matter. Sitting alongside an experienced crew of seven load the boat, check the before the start of the race. of people. It is something I would – all of whom looked the part in Yacht Club T-shirts, shorts and with sturdy conditions and double During that time the crew love to experience again, only next footwear at the end of their sea legs – I soon found out why yacht racing check everything was work frantically, pulling time I hope to be more than simply a is seen as one of the world’s most exciting sports. Fast paced, thrilling and securely tightened the ropes, fiddling and good luck charm. at times a little bumpy, it was an exhilarating and eye-opening way to be before setting sail. tweaking with the lines, starting a summer’s morning. There was a really desperately trying to get If you are interested in getting relaxed mood as we the sail ready while the involved in your own race day, departed in gentle captain orchestrates contact the Tokyo Yacht club through water. Slowly everything from the its website: www.tyc.gr.jp Hotel New Otani This urban ‘resort’ hotel is the perfect Making place to hit if you want to get tropical; the large outdoor pool, Mai Tai, looks right out of a brochure for a Tahiti advert. The large body of water is a Splash surrounded by poolside palm trees and Aqua Field Pool facilities such as private cottages, which Some top Tokyo pools to This large 50m outdoor pool has a can be reserved for the exclusive use stunning view of Tokyo Tower: it’s of two people, and come complete with soak away the heat located literally steps away from it. A a sofa, bed and internet access. Trader large wide terrace (complete with chairs Vic’s Outrigger offers terrace-based It’s on: August just rolled around, bringing and tables to relax in under the sun) post-swim burgers. with it incessant heat and humidity levels, gives an excellent view onto the lush Prices: Adults ¥5,000~20,000/Children and most of us are trapped in this concrete Shiba Koen, which boasts Zozoji Temple. ¥5,000~ 16,000 jungle we call Tokyo. Thankfully, we don’t A few lanes are reserved for serious Where: 4-1 Kioichi, Chiyoda-ku need to go too far to cool down – many of swimmers, and the rest of the pool is Tel: 03-3265-1111 us enjoy taking a dip into one of Tokyo’s opened for playing around. The pool is More info: newotani.co.jp numerous pools and water parks at this surrounded with beautiful traditional time of year… Whether you’re looking for aspects of our capital, and the space Hyoropolis a place to splash around with the whole feels very open and large, especially for Perhaps the closest you can get to an family or for a place to actually swim some Tokyo. Open until September 15. laps or read a book in the sun, this mini- actual water park without going out Prices: Adults ¥400/Children ¥200 guide should have you covered. of Tokyo. Although the Tashimaen Where: Shiba-Koen 2-7-2, Minato-ku Amusement Park is not the most exciting Tel: 03-5733-0575 around, its Hydropolis water park won’t disappoint. The large, family park is Tokyo Park Hyatt Sky Pool Keio Plaza Hotel the perfect place to take the kids for a Undoubtedly the Rolls Royce of pools, Who would have thought taking a plunge fun-filled day, as they won’t get tired of you don’t know the true meaning of pool in the middle of Shinjuku was possible? the networks of slippery slides, a surf until you’ve navigated your way across The outdoor pool of the Keio Plaza Hotel pool, a lazy river, two wave pools, not Tokyo Park Hyatt’s member’s only 8x20m is located on the seventh floor of the to mention an Olympic-sized swimming Sky Pool. Located on the 47th floor of building, and not only does it offer an pool that comes with three professional one of the city’s finest establishments, impressive view of everything Shinjuku diving boards. There’s an onsen, too. the giant wall-to-ceiling windows offer a and skyscraper-related, but it’s also Prices: Adults: ¥3,800/Children over 110cm grand view of Tokyo, and even snow- open to the public. You can even turn tall: ¥2,800/under 110cm tall: ¥1,800. capped Mt. Fuji on a clear day. After a your swim into an event, complete with Where: 3-25-1 Mukaiyama, Nerima-ku luxury swim or workout with a resident a meal – pick from a few different plans Tel: 03-3990-8800 fitness trainer, you can enjoy drinks and combining access to the pool and a meal. More info: toshimaen.co.jp light refreshments from the poolside Open until September 16. menu. Prices: Adults ¥1,000-6,000/Children ¥750-3,000 Where: 3-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Where: 2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Tel: 03 5323 3434 (for membership details) Tel: 03-3344-0111 More info: tokyo.park.hyatt.com More info: keioplaza.com

Meguro Ward Centre Pool This gorgeous 50x25m pool and adjacent toddler pool is a prime city swimming spot. The outdoor pools are part of a bigger complex that includes a range of facilities. Meguro Pool wins the vote for most conveniently located (a 12-min walk from Meguro station), and while it’s a prime spot for families with children, the weekends are populated with a young crowd, making it a top spot for Tokyo people-watching. Open until September 10.

Prices: Adults ¥400/Children ¥200 Where: 2-4-36 Meguro, Meguro-ku Tel: 03-3711-1139 More info: www.city.meguro.tokyo.jp 14 | CULTURE | UNESCO

mountain, reproduced in the farthest reaches of the planet on everything from brochures to school textbooks is indeed UNESCO tag a an exceptional testimony to Japan. Having said this, what now are the implications of reaching the list? Will this create a lasting beneficial legacy? Will tourism spiral out pandora’s box of control to the detriment of the region? Or will the topic fall out of the collective consciousness as quickly as it arrived? No sooner had the announcement for Mt. Fuji? by Phil Colquhoun from the 37th annual UNESCO session in Phnom Penh been made, new restaurants Last month, at a summit in Cambodia, UNESCO granted World and visitor centres had been thrown up Heritage status to Mt. Fuji, but one writer feels the future of this in anticipation of the inevitable surge of people keen to scale the slopes. Even already iconic and popular volcano can only go downhill… before confirmation of induction, Nikkei. com reported a lift in stocks in Tokyo, Wave after wave of tourists wandering at will, leaving ong synonymous with Japan “Object of Worship, particularly with travel and hiking goods garbage and starting unauthorized fires for barbecues has and an enduring image of both Wellspring of Art” companies and it is almost certain that the meant that ever more stringent rules have been implemented the Shizuoka and Yamanashi So, how do you go about choosing a place region will see a sharp increase in annual to lessen the impact. Visitors have had to be urged to stick to PODCAST HEROES prefectures it straddles, Mt to add to such a venerable list? Amongst visitor numbers – around 6 million arrived designated paths at Yakushima to avoid trampling delicate Fuji’sL new status – particularly for the in the area in 2012, with in the region of UNESCO’s 10-point guide to selecting a vegetation and Ogasawara now limits the numbers of tourists business owners who live off it – is cause 300,000 making the climb. Although an to certain areas of the islands, even imposing a time limit CLIMBING THE CHARTS World Heritage site are two that have this for celebration. The excitement, at least time around seen Mt. Fuji pass. Firstly, the area easily accessible and accustomed to for visits to try and negate damage done. It wouldn’t take an Can simply listening to a podcast help you speak Japanese (or within the media, has been palpable, location must “bear a unique or at least welcoming visitors from far and wide, a look unusually vivid imagination to envisage similar problems making it a near impossibility to switch on exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition at the experience of Japan’s other UNESCO arising at Mt Fuji. English!) more fluently? One Tokyo-based pair seem to think so, the TV without eager presenters frantically or to a civilization or be directly or tangibly sites paints a rather more troublesome An increase in visitors, especially from overseas, would and having only started Bilingual News in May, they are already describing where to buy Mt. Fuji trinkets, associated with events or living traditions, picture of what might lay in wait. present a welcome boost for Japan particularly as international topping the iTunes charts in Japan… how to hire a bike to ride around Mt. with ideas, or with beliefs and artistic or Hiraizumi experienced a 30% increase tourism is still recovering from the earthquake and tsunami Fuji or even where to eat Mt. Fuji shaped literary works of outstanding universal in visitors in the 12 months following its of March 2011 (visitor numbers in the summer of 2012 were t helps that the semi-anonymous duo behind Bilingual foodstuffs, with hikers in high demand for significance.” Thus, anyone searching for UNESCO listing in 2011, while Ogasawara up on pre-2011 levels but there is still a concern things are not News have fluent tongues themselves: Michael was their vox pops on the latest induction to the Mt. Fuji through the annals of UNESCO will saw a 50% jump that has since been the fully ‘back to normal’ from some quarters). born and raised mostly in Japan but is half American and spent some time in the US as a boy, and Mami is UNESCO list. now find it listed as a ‘cultural’ root of growing tensions between locals Perhaps taking note of the challenges encountered at other Japanese but says she “learned English from Britney The fuss created sits in quite stark location, described as and tourists. Various news outlets sites in Japan, Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures have been I Spears” and speaks with native flair. contrast to the backdrop of the taciturn, stoic ‘Mt. Fuji: Object of reported at the time that in the quick to take steps to try and avoid similar issues blighting Mt. The two came together as friends who loved chatting about complicated Mt. Fuji, a picture of calm, its symmetrical, Worship, Wellspring A look at months following Ogasawara’s Fuji. Plans to introduce a controversial entrance fee to climb topics including “philosophy, anthropology, religion and science” conical slopes shimmering as they reflect of Art’. induction, damage to plant life the mountain were already in the pipeline before the UNESCO the experience and their relaxed, natural style has won them fans who have formed off the waters of nearby Lake Kawaguchi There is no on the islands spiked and even announcement, with potential restrictions on visitor numbers something of a language learning/swapping community on the pair’s in much distributed and shared photos. It of Japan’s other resulted in complaints being also under consideration. In a decisive and quite possibly question that Mt Facebook and Twitter feeds. is an image unchanged for millennia and lodged with the Metropolitan necessary move, the money charged would be put towards Fuji has been UNESCO sites paints It is Michael and Mami’s fluency of ideas as well as their language one that is already protected under the Mt. Police Department, such was intrinsically conservation projects to negate the impact of an increase in skills that seem to have contributed to their relatively sudden success – Fuji charter, an agreement made between a rather more the apparent deliberateness linked to the climbers and this can only be applauded. A contribution of that and the fact their irreverent chats in fields as diverse as “a recent Yamanashi and Shizuoka governments of some of the destruction. development troublesome picture ¥1,000 per climber could be trialed as early as this summer, overweight call girl bust or evidence of psychedelic drug use in cave art” back in 1988 that ensures cooperation of artistic and Along with Ogasawara, however a recent study by Kyoto University’s economics caught the ear of comedy-duo Bakusho Mondai, who referenced it on on the conservation of the region and a of what might lay literary works both Japan has three other natural department has suggested a fee of around ¥7,000 would be their hit show. drive “to reduce the burden on the natural in Japan and across in wait UNESCO sites: Yakushima in required to balance sustainable visitor numbers. None of it is scripted, to the point that, Michael explains, the two don’t environment”. the world and that the Kagoshima pref., the Shirakami That the bestowal of the UNESCO tag could manifest even discuss opinions or insights on the chosen topics before coming Along with Mt. Etna, which also received image of the Sanchi Mountains bordering Aomori into a threat to the very site it is seeking to celebrate is an to record. “One problem with a lot of the formal, more ‘professional’ World Heritage status this year, though, and Akita, and the Shiretoko region of irony that presents a very real dilemma for those in control podcasts, is that the structure itself obstructs natural thought or Mt. Fuji requires neither the protection Hokkaido, and these have also struggled to of the mountain’s future. Whilst the two prefectures should conversation. I think in order to learn to speak a language it helps to nor attention seeking promotion usually balance development and increased rightly be commended for seeking to preserve Mt. Fuji, learn to think in that language first. Most podcasts try to tell you what to associated with receiving the honour and visitor numbers with the using the fees collected to improve trails and protect the say without teaching you how to think.” this leaves one to ponder what the protection of the region. environment, sceptics will inevitably view the proposed moves “On the surface the podcast is about language study,” says Michael. bestowal of the UNESCO tag as opportunistic commercialisation of the mountain, the “But on a deeper level it is about initiating a more open conversation will mean for the area tarnishing of a sacred area and the selling off of an experience between Japanese people and the rest of the world.” So what next? What if a sponsor came along or a figure from the and, indeed, Japan that many consider to be almost a rite of passage. publishing industry offered to open the chequebook? “Honestly I think as a whole. The transition from national icon to World Heritage site sponsorship would ruin the concept,” Mami says. “We’re sure they’d start must be carefully managed if the issues which arose at the telling us what to say, and we’re really trying to avoid that. We want to country’s other sites are to be avoided and to allow Mt. Fuji to choose topics we like, not topics we’re told or we think people like.” represent an enduring and exceptional testimony to Japan’s So fans needn’t worry chart-topping status will alter the free- living traditions rather than become a source of squabbling, speaking philosophy – but they are also not likely to get any closer than bureaucracy, tension, red tape and the erosion of virtual first name terms with the pair, and they’d like to keep it that way, a once outstanding natural and culturally for now. “We’re not interested in being famous,” Mami says. “But,” adds important area. Michael, “I do want Bilingual News to help and influence as many people as possible and evolve into something beautiful.”

To listen to the Bilingual News podcast go to: http://ow.ly/nkMfT

www.tokyoweekender.com AUGUST 2013 Yusuke Iseya | FEATURE | 17 Images courtesy of Suzu (fresco) Firstly, could you give us a little something sustainable. background to the company and Rather than just throwing why you started it? money at a situation or At 27 I had achieved my professional goal giving food, we want to to be a movie director; what I needed was a provide opportunities to real purpose in life. I had gained a greater individuals who don’t have Yusuke Iseya understanding about the planet’s most the resources to execute troubling issues, such as climate change, their ideas. food shortages, increasing population, powered by frustration and energy, one distribution of fossil fuels etc. I felt that It all sounds very for the sake of future generations it was impressive, how Superstar is taking control, re-imagining important to try and tackle some of these successful has it been? problems. I’m very happy with how the world and inspiring others That said, I didn’t just want to create a it has been going, though volunteer group that seemed like it was on there was certainly some an adventure, it had to be a registered public skepticism early on. Since company, something well structured and the 2011 earthquake more orderly, a business that could inspire people and more people, for the to try something similar. first time in many cases, are The best and easiest place to start thinking about how much was with food, shelter and clothing – the energy they are using etc and necessities of life. While studying at Tokyo that we have to do something Arts University I was surrounded by a for future generations. It is criminal if we project helps individuals express their number of creative people [Iseya is also don’t, not literally of course, but truly evil if ideas to the public. half-brother to respected designer, Kansai we don’t try and help in some way. I think there is a growing realization Yamamoto]. They often had leftover things We must also raise our voices to help that individuals can provide solutions to from their projects, and of course they were change the government’s policies and try their own problems. This is what we want limited in terms of what they could do with to make the planet a better place to live. If to encourage further in our workshops, it, so I started thinking about how we could you look at the Japanese government, I think with an emphasis on dialogue, technique use some of those resources to create some the priority is short-term economic gains and developing skills. things that would be beneficial for people over long term goals. At the same time as and the environment. making public statements about aiming for It can clearly be beneficial having a celebrity running an organization like this, would you like to see more high profile Rather than just throwing money at a situation or people following your lead? giving food, we want to provide opportunities to individuals Yes, it is, but I think it is more difficult for Japanese celebrities than, say, American ones. who don’t have the resources to execute their ideas In Hollywood, for example, the relationship between actors and their agents is almost equal. Actors pay fees to their agents, and So the concept was in place, how no nuclear power plants by 2030, they then after that have a degree of freedom. did you execute your ideas? go and sell nuclear power plants to foreign In Japan actors are fully controlled by One of our early enterprises was with Lee investors. This goes against the ecological their management agencies. These agencies Jeans, who we approached with the idea of concerns of the electorate. I think that while feel like they are the ones who ‘created’ these taking the denim that they would normally it is important to respect the institutions that stars. Most celebrities receive salaries and throw away and putting it to good use. rule us, we must constantly question them. so have to do what their agencies tell them, Almost all clothing manufacturers have dead It is up to us to shape our own future. it makes it difficult for them to freely take stock, but choose to hide that because they part in charity activities like Angelina (Jolie) are they are embarrassed about it. You’ve talked before about how does in the States. Many Japanese actors, Using an eco-friendly printing in Japan people see the future as particularly males, get fame from a young technique, with Lee’s dead stock as our something someone else will age because of their looks, the problem is canvas, we created prints based on 80s determine. How Can you change when they reach their 40s or 50s they have themes and figures, such as (Margaret) that mindset? no identity as everything has been done for Thatcher, Gorbachev’s policy of Perestroika, While we now have a greater understanding them. With me it’s different because I control or rebuilding, and one of my favourite films of the way the world works, the basic my own affairs. of that era, Back to the Future. Fortunately function of the human brain – i.e. our by Matthew Hernon Lee were really receptive and seemed to hardware – hasn’t changed for thousands of You must be busy! is it difficult understand what we wanted to achieve. years. Our thinking is pretty much the same juggling your time? respected director, film star and the others, what actually marks him out as unique as it has always been: finding short-term It can be, but I can’t work any other way. face of those COCO Juku posters you’ll is that he isn’t afraid to voice it, no matter how You’ve launched a number of solutions that will help us survive. What we I have been told by a number of people have seen if you’ve looked up from controversial. initiatives since, such as the ‘Genki need to start doing is using the knowledge that I am often too hasty. I think that all your seat on the Metro lately, Yusuke In 2009 Iseya launched Rebirth Project, Dama’ Project, what’s that? we have gained – our ‘installed applications’ humans have some kind of malfunction in AIseya (pictured above, front) is undoubtedly a multi-faceted business with a philosophy It is based on the Genki Dama (Energy – to start thinking long-term. their brain; with me it is the fact that I lose one of the country’s highest profile stars. Yet that focuses on sustainable development, Sphere) from Dragonball. The idea is that People have a lot of great ideas about concentration very quickly. I can never after spending a short time in the company of encouraging individuals to find their own when everyone uses a bit of energy, this can sustainable development, but they often settle and I’m constantly looking for new the 34-year-old, who starred alongside Julianne solutions to the world’s problems. We met with create a huge ball of fire that can overcome feel there is little they can realistically do, challenges. This is the way I function – if I Moore in Fernando Meirelles’ 2008 movie, him at his company’s organic cafe at the Mori the bad guy. Our concept is basically the as there is no platform to express their ever tried to relax for a long period I think Blindness, it soon became clear he isn’t a typical Trust Garden TORA4 in Kamiyacho. Eloquent, same: individuals working together to create thoughts. That is where we come in; our I would go crazy! Japanese celeb. He’s a deep thinker and he has passionate and extremely candid, he spoke at an opinion – though perhaps, to be fair to some great length about the project. www.tokyoweekender.com August 2013 18 | CULTURE | BONSAI Bonsai When SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL fact file: Going beyond bonsai basics at the Azabu Juban Bonsai and Greenery Fair A Bonsai is not a miniature breed of tree, nor reen fingered hobbyists, collectors is it a genetically dwarfed variety. It is a regular and members of the public looking “For families, Bonsai and Angyo tree – which can be deciduous, coniferous or for unique gifts might each have Around 45 minutes by train from Azabu tropical – that has been kept and ‘trained’ using different reasons for their interest bonsai experts Juban (that’s right, Saitama isn’t as far sophisticated techniques so that it remains at in bonsai, but they might all as you might think) is Angyo, part of its diminutive size. haveG one thing in common: a shared sense that or those who are Kawaguchi city and a hub for the green this is truly an art form worth more than just fingered – particularly bonsai buffs. There are several recognized ‘styles’ of bonsai, scratching the surface of. With an annual event just beginning to The area has a long association with each designed to reflect situations in nature. in Tokyo just round the corner, we took a look the trees and for almost 400 years has From ‘wind-swept’ styles that have been trained at some of the reasons to take a closer look at think about the been home to growers, sellers, markets to have natural curves, which appear to have bonsai culture and ask whether getting involved and various visitors wanting to get their been made over 100s of years, to those with might be for you. hands on any of hundreds of species cascading (kengai) trunks that spill over the green-fingered life, available in the town. edges of a container, there are many variations Bonsai & Greenery Fair in Various greenery centers and bonsai on the more formal upright styles. Azabu Juban there are plenty of gardens are clustered around the center Several hundred expats and a couple of thousand of town and on arrival you should find it The biggest bonsai in the world is claimed by more locals turned up to the annual Azabu Juban reasons to go to pretty easy to stroll around and find out a herb and rose garden in Atami – it has a 600 Bonsai fair last year, and 2013 should prove even a little more – and you won’t be alone. year old tree that is 5 meters tall and 10 meters more successful, with the event’s scale having Patio Juban and Mr Haruhisa Akimoto, third wide but still ‘officially’ exists as a bonsai, such grown without a hint of pruning over the last generation owner at Akimoto Gardening that it lives in a container… According to one three years. take a look” explained to Weekender that he has grower in Malaysia who is seeking Guinness For families, bonsai experts or those who are seen a surge in interest in bonsai from World Record status for his naturally grown just beginning to think about the green-fingered hand to offer a little advice and show you the way abroad in recent years, and he’s happy trees, bonsai can be as small as 22mm. life, there are plenty of reasons to go to Patio around some of the basic techniques behind their to say that customers are seemingly Juban and take a look on September 8 and 9. You creations with a demo on Sunday 8 at 1.30pm. more and more discerning. Less is often more. Symmetry and proportion might want to pick up a tree for yourself, hone Many varieties will be on show – and on sale – “Traditionally our customers often are key components to bonsai aesthetics, but your pruning skills or simply learn a little more and whether you are a veteran wanting to go visit with Japanese dealers specializing it’s not all about the tree and its branches, it’s about a tradition being kept alive and allowed to deeper into the world of bonsai or fancy a family in exporting bonsai, and we used to do a also about the space left around them. You’ll thrive by the people from Angyo, Kawaguchi, who day out that ends in a new hobby and some take lot of ‘B-to-B’ deals, though now we are often be able to ‘see through’ part of a planned are bringing their bonsai, but however you see home trees, this is certainly the place for you. increasingly seeing the general public form, bringing a philosophical slant to looking the day panning out, you will be welcome. The bonsai themselves can sell for pretty visiting us,” he explained. “I’m not sure at bonsai that look a lot older than they are. Organisers hope that visitors will take the much however much you’d like to pay and why, but it’s interesting that we are seeing chance to meet the growers and pruners and all-comers should find something that sparks more and more Europeans, for example.” The Japanese word when translated literally watch them at work while strolling around one their interest and fits their budget. If you The interest in bonsai has always been means something like ‘planted in a container’. of Tokyo’s friendliest neighborhoods, making for want something slightly special you can push there – they are well known in the west, Since those containers are usually pretty a rather relaxing sounding weekend activity. your budget to anything from ¥10,000 to of course – but the increasing fondness small, regular repotting is essential to ensure Ideally you’ll need to brush up on your between ¥40-50,000, though really, there is no for (and perhaps the fashionableness nutrients in the soil are replenished and the knowledge should you take the plunge and opt limit – some trees sell to collectors around the of) ‘artisanal’ products and items from plant is allowed to thrive. to become a bonsai owner yourself. Luckily, world for thousands of dollars, with bonsai craftspeople who are upholding traditions experts from the town of Angyo – a place long from the region on show here prized amongst can perhaps be thanked for much of Bonsai is a Japanese word, of course, but the associated with greenery in all forms – will be on the very best. Angyo’s recent success. artform can be traced back around 2,000 years Because it is so necessary for a to the tradition of Penjing, in China – it arrived bonsai to have been taken care of by in Japan around 1,000 years ago. skilled hands, learning about them and buying them direct from the source makes the process of getting involved in the hobby of pruning or collecting all the more enjoyable; heading to Angyo and taking a stroll around is the perfect place to do that.

Azabu Juban Bonsai & How to get to Angyo: Greenery Fair 2013 The easiest way to get to south Saitama if you want to explore Angyo itself and Sun 8th and Mon 9th Sep. get more than just a taste of bonsai Time: 11am-5pm history is to take the Saitama Railway Place: Patio Juban line – which connects directly to the (Three-minutes walk from Namboku line – to Tozuka-Angyo. Azabu Juban St. Exit 4.) For more info please visit: www.s-rail.co.jp/english

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com 20 | PROMOTION | BUSINESS BUSINESS | PROMOTION | 21

inviting several high-profile buyers to Japan specially. Some examples of the buyers Character Goods: Scandinavian THE ART invited are those coming from Lifestyle Zone: museum shops in the US, luxury apanese items have long attracted attention sellers in Australia and a trading from all over the world, with animation and ne of the highlights company in Singapore with accounts character goods often at the forefront of that of the upcoming in many well known stores. We feel cultural explosion. Gift Show will be that this is their gateway to the goods J the Scandanavian The Gift Show has put together a special and culture of Japan. 0 OF GIVING zone for licensors of character content to meet with buyers, Lifestyle Zone, 76TH TOKYO INTERNATIONAL GIFT SHOW Our group company “Business displaying latest trends and showing off items that have which takes over Hall 5. Creative Tours, Inc.” will ensure garnered both domestic and international success. Interior and lifestyle goods, hotels near the venue are equipped Organisers predict Japanese items, with iconic figures plus recognizable character to welcome overseas visitors meaning it is even more important such as Gozilla still well known both here and around the goods and licensed products for products to reflect their prov- smoothly. There will also be spaces world, continuing to grow in popularity. There will also be depicting favourites such as enance and be unique, and this for foreign buyers to meet and an opportunity to see the latest from well-known foreign the Moomins, will reflect the has become an important facet for negotiate companies, with Peter Rabbit and friends – stars of a new lifestyle of Scandinavian people, products that achieve success in the animated series – also on board. representing each of Sweden, mainstream market. How CAN the show Denmark, Finland and Norway. BENEFIT exhibiting In addition, Bandai and Tomy will display the latest Scandinavians have long been What appeal does foreign companies? toy products and crazes, with merchandisers given the revered for their taste and design the gift show The Gift Show is a opportunity to do business and purchase rights. sensibilities – not only through have to those comprehensively from over- attended by buyers mainstream interior shops we all seas? with the largest know very well. Many see themes At the Gift Show distribution networks that cohere to some Japanese many goods are made in Japan, each looking aesthetics, with the simplicity and in Japan using the for something fresh, warmth of various philosophies highest quality materials particularly as interest © Tsuburaya Production Co., Ltd. on show in many items you will and technology. In recent in foreign goods has spiked find at the Gift Show. years, even companies taking due to the ease of exploring Kitchen items, textiles, advantage of traditional techniques, that merchandise over the internet. furniture and more will be on such as exhibitors of tableware Exhibiting at the Tokyo International display with brands such as and interior merchandise, have Gift show is an opportunity to meet Norway’s ROROS TWEED AS, produced items tailored to the them and expand your business. Silkeborg, from Denmark and lifestyle of the West. Sweden’s Klippan some of the In addition, there is a focus on What is so special about highlights to look out for. character merchandise and anime, Japanese which always proves popular with products? visitors from abroad. It is possible to The Made in Japan tag is still a major find goods aimed at many different attraction for buyers, whatever 1 demographics, from characters category the goods fit into. Even Craftwork: popular with young girls to those novelty and character goods utilize One product that might for an adult audience, many of the sensitivity of Japanese life and catch your eye in the craft which exclusively available here in help express the country’s unique section is the Colinette, Tokyo. This show will also follow culture. For example, compact, multi- an intriguing object that the unique sensibilities of the functional lifestyle goods fit into 0 won its designer, Yoshiki Nobuyuki Haga, President of Business Guide-Sha answers a few Japanese, with novelty items, health small Japanese houses yet also have Matsuyama, Grand Prix at the Toyama questions and gives us an insight into the Tokyo International and beauty goods, baby goods and strengths when it comes to things like Gift Show, one of the biggest B-to-B trade fairs in Japan stationary each showing off the efficiency. These strengths can be Product Design Competition 2012. highest quality. relevant to anyone in many parts of The palm-sized piece of aluminium the world. High-quality merchandise was apparently created in the shape What is the Tokyo accessories, fancy items and gift What services does the is available at low prices, another of a particularly undulating hill that International Gift concepts that can inspire. The idea show offer to buyers? strength of the show. inspired its form, and it is actually a Show? is to curate and show products The Gift Show has focused on the massage tool, though you may not spot 2 Tokyo International Gift Show is that can give a flavour of the latest improvement of service to visitors What is your future that straight away. Japan’s largest international trade fair global trends as well as design and 3 from overseas in recent years. vision of the Gift Show? The Colinette has had quite a bit showing miscellaneous lifestyle goods marketing boundaries the industry Specifically, we are offering Tokyo International Gift Show is of attention from media already since and personal gifts. It has been held bi- is currently pushing through. English language exhibitor lists the only place where you can find its hitting the shelves in 2012, with annually, in spring and autumn, since Around 200,000 buyers will be in and information, have enhanced certain high quality Japanese items department stores and design shops 1972. The show, with 4,150 booths, attendance. other English materials that will be sold within the country. We would takes over the entire 82,660 sq m of One key theme is the ‘feeling rushing to stock the piece. distributed and have arranged for like more people to come, see and Tokyo Big Sight and hosts around of giving’. Through products with Another interesting item is SUS interpreters to be in the overseas feel Japanese tradition, culture and 2,400 specialized small and medium personality we can give visitors a gallery’s titanium vacuum cup: made buyers lounge, particularly after sincerity at the Gift Show. sized enterprize companies from sense of what it means to buy a gift from titanium but with the craft both home and abroad who wish and how that can make people feel. sensibilities of a creator. Born in Where: Tokyo Big Sight to announce new products, expand In a globalised world changes in Tsubame, Niigata – a city well known 3-11-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063 their market, wholesale or make lifestyle mean we are diversifying for metalwork – the idea was to create a When: Septemebr 4th - 6th orders with OEMs. our lives in both Japan and abroad “synthesis of tradition and technology,” 1 SUS gallery’s titanium vacuum cup 2 Colinette massage tool designed by Yoshiki Matsuyama 3 The versatile Items are diverse and the and the gifts we give should reflect Opening: and these values are in fact a common Wed 4th & Thu 5th - 10am to 6pm Colinette can be used all over the body. dynamic space invites visitors that. For example, people who like theme throughout the hall. More info: www.giftshow.co.jp/ english/76tigs/ Fri 6th - 10am to 5pm to peruse interior goods, fashion to travel abroad often find rare gifts,

AUGUST 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com AUGUST 2013 22 | FEATURE | ECOLOGY

The question of ‘what can you do Shark fin soup about it?’ is one that I would like to pose to you, and to everyone. What can we do about it? If education delicacy or tragedy? and knowledge is the key, which I strongly believe it is, let’s spread the word together! If anyone would like Sharks seem to get a more information on how to spread pretty rough deal in the word, how to get involved please Japan – using their fins email me directly. I would be more than happy to help with lesson plans in soup perhaps hasn’t for ESL classes, talks at companies, the taboo it may have film showings or information nights in other parts of the at embassies or social clubs or just world… sharing information online. Yes, the most financially valuable part of the shark, and a primary Your website says you incentive for shark fishing, is the fin. will be raising awareness Large numbers of sharks become through volunteer victims of the barbaric practice known as shark finning. A shark activism and arts. What is caught, usually using a longline can we expect to see in with baited hooks, and then pulled future? on board where fishermen cut the ‘Artivism’ is at the core of our beliefs. fins from the shark, then, often Using creativity to bring awareness still alive, the shark is thrown to this issue is not only engaging, it overboard, unable to swim and in is also one that transcends borders. agonizing pain, and sinks to the Visual arts can be enjoyed and bottom of the ocean to either drown appreciated regardless of age, gender, or be eaten alive. It is feared that background or where someone is sharks – which have occupied the from. In this way it directly reflects top of the oceanic food chain for our philosophy of bringing an the last 450 million years – could international issue to a local level. become extinct in the next decade Rather that focusing on “don’t do this, or two. Many shark populations don’t do that”, engaging people though have declined by as much as 90%, creativity is a positive process that here’s a simple answer to the question our headline and now represent the greatest encourages positive responses. and if you don’t know it yet, we’d urge you to put your percentage of threatened marine In the future we will be having Tspoon down and settle for some wonton soup instead species on the IUCN Red List. film screenings, information of fukahire… We spoke this month with Pania Lincoln, Japan Shark meat and booths at festivals, art director of PangeaSeed, a shark and ocean conservation NGO other shark products exhibitions, dance that launched a new branch here in July to find out more are also contributing parties, live music and about the problems, and how ‘artivism’ might be able to help. to the alarming painting events and rate of overfishing. more, keep checking our website and Firstly, can you describe PangeaSeed’s Sharks are highly vulnerable to Facebook page for operations? overfishing updates. PangeaSeed Japan is a branch of PangeaSeed, which was because they are established in 2009 in Japan and is now based in the USA. We generally slow are very closely connected with the main branch and operate Do you see growing and long with the same base ideas, core values and goals. Also, we yourselves living, which makes work together in parallel, helping each other with projects as creating them inherently and support. Our core group consists of 10 hard-working vulnerable to exploitation awareness or volunteers who give their time and energy following their and slow to recover from more as lobbyists? passion for ocean conservation. population declines. Creating awareness is our main In Japan, as with many other activity. We believe that if we educate How did your personal involvement come counties in Asia, you’re right, there people to respect and understand about? isn’t the social ‘taboo’ associated with sharks and their plight we will have My background is both in animal rights activism and art, shark fin soup, which in my opinion the critical mass needed to change which I have always endeavored to combine together. Whilst is mainly down to lack of knowledge. the current mindset. With the power living in Japan and working with different NGOs and NPOs I have even spoken to people who of popular opinion we endeavor to I met the PangeaSeed crew and I was instantly hit by their didn’t realise what was in ‘fukahire’ have sharks where they belong, in positivity and creativity. After spending more time with (shark fin) soup, and definitely had our oceans, not in over-priced bowls them I found that we shared many similar beliefs, including no idea about the plight of sharks. of soup. the use of ‘artivism’ and a positive activism. By the time Most of the time I encounter people PangeaSeed moved to their base to the USA I had become so who are willing and eager to learn For more info, visit pangeaseed.org/ impressed with their mission, and they way they carried it about this problem, and to think japan. To read more of this interview out, that I decided to open a branch here in Japan to keep about a positive future without please check the newly re-launched their work going. sharks on the menu. tokyoweekender.com

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com Producer Jerry Bruckheimer, Johnny Depp, Armie Hammer and director Gore Verbinsky at Walt Disney Pictures’ Gala PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | SOCIETY | 25 Premiere for The Lone Ranger in Tokyo.

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4 5 PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES Tokyo’s Longest Running Society Page, with Bill Hersey

’m starting to try to get this month’s column together in early after the extraordinary Harry Potter Exhibition opening in Roppongi 6 7 July but there’s just so much happening in Tokyo it’s hard to Hills. This runs until September 16th and shouldn’t be missed. Anyway, know where to start. We really do have to work ahead, and if dropped by Lao Hu after the H.P. reception to catch up on some notes you have any events, etc., you’d like me to mention, I really and have a light meal. Also, I took some time to clean out my wallet. Ineed to have the info as far ahead as possible. Thanks for your Enjoyed the food, as well as when on the down escalator one of the understanding on this. Chinese waiters caught up with me and returned a 10,000 yen note I July, with all its national days, summer music festivals and so had somehow managed to drop under my table – as I often think, only in on has been and will continue to be super busy. Going back over the Japan. He wouldn’t take a reward but was happy with two invitations to highlights of my busy often hectic summer schedule, I sincerely feel the New Lex Tokyo. meeting and spending some prime time with visiting Filipino healing Kind of bragging, but have such a great life really do feel somebody priest Father Fernando Suarez was right at the top of my list of a up there likes me. Even so, as we Americans sometime say, s*** lot of special happenings. As an anthropology major specializing in happens. Over at the Cinco de Mayo festival at Yoyogi park a friend ethnology I’ve always had a strong interest in different religions. My brought me a long skewer of Hokkaido crabmeat. It was delicious, Hopi (Native American) Godfather was a well-known religious leader and I had the same the next day… Should have known better, the heat, in this tribe, and the Native American Nation, and so he taught me to seafood, plus whatever, meant I ended up with one of the worst cases 8 9 10 always respect others’ beliefs, to try not to be skeptical, and to be as of food poisoning I can remember. This really knocked me on my butt open minded as I possibly can. I believe some time with Father Suarez, for a couple of weeks, and believe me, was not fun. My doctor said a young outgoing man who’s really dynamic, and who gives so much there was a lot of this going around and I should tell friends to really be 115th Philippines Independence Day Celebration at the Imperial Indonesian amb. Muhammad Lutfi with his wife Bianca7. Kuwaiti amb. Abdul to so many, really made me realize how important and meaningful careful of what they eat, and where they eat, especially during what’s 1. Warner Bros. Japan president, William Ireton, Ceremony Corp. president Rahman Al Otaibi, his wife Jamilah and Maria Teresa 8. Roberta, Bill and Charo these things are in my life. Before moving on to lighter things, I want to predicted to be a really hot summer. Take care, even with all this, I’ll Tsukasa Shiga and Philippine amb. and Mrs. Manuel Lopez’s son, Mike, Ireton with amb. and Mrs. Lopez at a special celebration at the beautiful Rockwell thank Philippines Ambassador Manuel Lopez, his wife Maria Teresa, still enjoy the many happenings at Yoyogi park – but will think more visiting from Manila. 2. Former prime minister Yasuo Fukuda’s wife, Kiyoko, Development in Manila. the Embassy staff, and of course, long time friends Bill and Charo about what and where I eat. with philanthropist Maria Cristine 3. Politician Kenji Kosaka and former PM Yasuo Fukuda congratulate Philippines amb. Manuel Lopez on the occasion Azerbaijan National Day at the Okura Ireton for the opportunity and privilege of meeting Father Suarez. 4. One of our city’s outstanding event hostesses Maria Teresa Lopez and her 9. Dewi Sukarno (left) congratulates the hosting couple, Azerbaijan amb. Gursel I always enjoy telling friends about good things happening to Min-On’s Chinese Promotion Japanese students 5. Djibouti amb. Ahmed Aratia Ali, Zimbabwe amb. Stuart Ismayilzada and his wife Rana 10. Alex Bayramov and Dirmen Mermet. me here, and hope similar things may happen to them. Had a great Our congratulations to Min-On concert association on 50 years of Harold Comberbach and Saudi amb. Abdulaziz Turkistani 6. Malaysian amb. Chinese dinner at a favorite excellent, inexpensive restaurant Lao Hu bringing top cultural groups from all over the world as well as sending Datuk Mhd Som Shaharuddin, his wife Datin Norasikin and Dong Yi Ju on the 5th floor West Walk of Roppongi Hills recently. It was the best of Japanese culture to many countries everywhere.

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com August 2013 26 | SOCIETY | PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES | SOCIETY | 27

“I’ve always had a strong interest in different religions. My Hopi (Native American) Godfather was a well-known religious leader in this tribe, and the Native American Nation”

To celebrate the anniversary Min-On brought the world famous talented vocalists. There was also a group of Japanese university 53-member Shenyang acrobatic troupe of China to town. The 41- students who, like me, and many I know, love the Philippines. They’re city tour also commemorated the 35th Anniversary of the Peace and very involved in all phases of the country’s life, and culture. They 1 2 3 Friendship Treaty between Japan and China. even study and learn Tagalog. They’re talented as well and put on a The show, as I’ve mentioned before, was fantastic. The after party dynamic show of Filipino song and dance. gave me the opportunity to meet most of the cast – including the It was also nice seeing one of the Lopez’s sons, Mike, who’s Sr. V.P. youngest, who is just seven years old. It also gave me the chance to and G.M. of the unbelievable Rockwell property management corp. meet and get to know Chinese Ambassador Cheng Youg Hua. I had I met Mike a few months ago when I attended some special events met his wife Wang Wan at several other events, and China’s very at Rockwell. You have to check out Rockwell when you’re in the lucky to have such an intelligent, international and outgoing couple Philippines. to represent them here. I was very impressed with the ambassador’s speech and optimistic feelings about better relations between his A Busy Summer country and Japan. I’m looking forward to visiting the Shenyang As I said, summer is as busy as ever. Here are a few of the interesting headquarters later this year. things you may are going on around town. Corey and Rick Harrison, the stars of Pawn Stars, a fantastically Azerbaijan National Day Reception popular reality show out of Las Vegas, will be visiting here for a Our congratulations to Azerbaijan Ambassador Gursel Ismayilzada, his few days in August and during their Tokyo visit they’ll be doing a wife Rana and the Azerbaijan community in Japan, who to celebrate promotion for Tohoku Shinsha, who air the super popular show on 4 5 6 their national day hosted a first class reception on the occasion. At the the History Channel. It’s a favorite of Asi who runs the Weekender Okura, guests included Japanese government officials, diplomats, and office. The show’s stars will have a busy schedule but time permitting business leaders. Dewi Sukarno, wife of the late Indonesian President we may do a welcome party at the New Lex Tokyo for them. If you’re Sukarno looked pretty in pink. She’s a very popular TV show guest interested, call me at 090-3200-6767 and I’ll let you know what’s now. The ambassador’s wife, as always, was super chic, as were the happening. other ladies from the hosting country. It was a nice day in every way. My thanks to Udo Artists International for the great seat at Tokyo Forum for Sarah Brightman’s “Dreamchaser” concert tour. Her ex- Philippines National Day at Imperial husband Andrew Lloyd Webber (Evita, Phantom of the Opera, etc.) The Philippines are famous for their festivals and ambassador Manuel is right on when he often calls Sarah’s vocal renditions “music from Lopez and his wife Maria Teresa and their staff went all out to make Heaven”. Wow, can that lady sing. Met some of the mostly British their 115th Independence Day celebration one of the most meaningful, staff and they did a miraculous job of making the sets, the lighting colorful and fun ever here in Japan. and special effects, magical and perfect for the concerts. You should Most of our Filipino friends wore their national dress – the cool try and see and hear her. Showbiz at its very best. comfortable barong Tagalog shirts for the men and a kaleidoscope of Their music is different, but I’ve long been a fan of the Rolling 7 8 9 color on the hand embroidered or hand beaded terno for the ladies. Stones, partied with Mick (and his Aerosmith buddy Steve Tyler) at Special guests included former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, who’s the Lexington Queen and got to know Ron Wood when he was here Chairman, Japan–Philippines Parliamentarian Friendship Assoc., with with the late and great Bo Diddely. Got a great surprise recently when his wife, and popular politician Kenji Kosaka, who is chief sec. of a Japanese girl I haven’t seen for years dropped by the New Lex and Japan Filipino Friendship League. The lavish buffet featured left me a book. It turned out to be autographed copy – with Filipino, Japanese, Western, and Chinese favorites. a slightly cryptic message: “To Bill, too F****** right!” – of The Filipino people are often justifiably called the Keith Richard’s top selling book, Life! best musicians around and entertainment that evening included a superb violinist, several string groups and

10 11 12

Azerbaijan National Day at the Okura (cont.) 8. Bill Hersey and one of the many outstanding Shenyeng performers. 1. Azerbaijan embassy staff Dinara Masamoto and Narmina Aslanova 2. Grand Master of Ceremonies for the Imperial Household amb. Nobutake Odano and his wife Tamayo. In and Around 9. Electric sunglasses executive Soichi Kondo professional snowboard champion Soichi Sensational Shenyeng Acrobatic Troupe from China Sato, busy preparing for the Winter Olympic Games in Russia, and New Lex manager Taka 3. Min-on Pres. MR. Kobayashi, Chinese amb. Cheng Yong Hua and his wife Wang Wan Masuda 10. Retired Italian football player Christian “Bobo” Vieri with Bill and a friend. 4. Outgoing Jamaican amb. Claudia Barnes stands between her niece, Taryan Harvey, Bobo scored two against a J League all-star team in Tokyo last month. 11. Yusuku Hozan, and the Chinese Embassy’s personable attaché, Junjie Zhang. 5. Austrian amb. Bernard owner of new restaurant Il Feklice in Hiroo, Italian hairstyle makeup artist Aklexandre and Zimburg, his wife Rashmi, their beautiful daughter and two Shenyeng cast members. 6. Italian promoter Aldo at Hiroo Segafredo. 12. Mexican F1 driver Esteban Guitterez with his Chilean friends Abdres Santamaria, Ricardo Gozalez and Jafet Radago at The wives of the Arab diplomats present the proceeds from the Arab Albanian amb. Bujar Dida, his wife Reko and Shenyeng acrobats. 7. Rumen and Veselina two brothers, sister and new friend, Chinese attorney Brandon Tan (right), at the Gallery The Cinco de Mayo Festival in Yoyogi Park Bazaar to delegates from Fukushima Kovachev of the Bulgarian embassy make some great new friends at the after party. Club

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com August 2013 28 | WEEKENDER | EXPAT LIFE EXPAT LIFE | WEEKENDER | 29

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Athletic Dog Club Co., Ltd. 1F 1-8-18 Akatsutsumi, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-0044 Tel: 03-3327-1003 I Fax: 03-3327-7407 [email protected] www4.ocn.ne.jp/~adc MOVIES AUG 30 AUG 9 Coming to a cinema near you in August

AUG 23 Star Trek Into Darkness fter successfully re-launching the Star Trek franchise in 2009, director AJ.J. Abrams is back with this first sequel, Star Trek Into Darkness. The crew of the Enterprise, led my Chris Pine’s Captain Kirk and aided by Zachary Quinto’s Spock, return to tackle John Harrison, a mysterious former member of Starfleet who launches a terrorist attack on London before attempting Man of Steel Pacific Rim to wipe out the senior members of Starfleet fter a torturous wait (the release is nearly three months after ince Godzilla first stomped his way onto cinema screens in 1954 Command. After escaping to the Klingon the rest of the world) the latest reboot of the Superman franchise Japan has had a love affair with the ‘Kaiju’ (giant monster) homeworld the hunt is on for the Enterprise Afinally arrives on these pages. Zac Snyder, the director know for Smovie that has baffled the rest of the world. After the giant to find Harrison and bring the rogue agent visual opulence – he was behind the likes of 300 and Watchmen – was monster explosion, giant robots, or ‘mecha’, were not far behind, as to justice. The returning crew is filled out the man chosen to get things soaring again after the less than successful anyone who has seen Odaiba’s hulking Gundam statue can attest. with Zoe Saldana, as communications officer Superman Returns back in 2006. Helping Snyder in a production capacity While Hollywood has mostly avoided these very Japanese genres, Uhuru, Karl Urban as Dr. ‘Bones’ McCoy, is Christopher Nolan, who steered Batman to new heights with the Dark it has jumped in with both feet for Pacific Rim. Co-written and Simon Pegg as chief engineer ‘Scotty’ and Knight series. Heading up the cast is Henry Cavill, donning the iconic suit directed by Guillermo Del Toro, who made the visually stunning John Cho as Sulu. Playing the villainous as the Man of Steel in what is by far the young actor’s biggest role to date. Pan’s Labyrinth and the Hellboy series, the film is set in a near future Harrison is star of the BBC TV series, Amy Adams plays intrepid reporter Lois Lane, Kevin Costner and Diane in which colossal monsters have erupted from the Earth’s core, Sherlock, Benedict Cumberbatch, who will Lane make wonderful returns to the screen as Superman’s adoptive threatening to destroy humankind. To combat this menace, enormous be back on screens later in the year, though Earth parents and Russell Crowe is Jor-El, Marlon Brando’s role in the humanoid robots controlled by human pilots – ‘Jaegers’ – have been in a very different form, as the voice of the 1978 version. Significant changes are made to what you may know of created. The film stars Charlie Hunman (the face of TV series Sons of dragon Smaug in the second part of The Superman’s transition from alien son to Kansas farm boy and ultimately Anarchy) as Raleigh Becket, a pilot coaxed out of retirement for one Hobbit trilogy. Abrams was credited with in his becoming Earth’s finest hero. Clark Kent has grown into a drifter, last shot at defeating the monsters. Idris Elba, who rose to fame in the making a Star Trek film both appealing to moving from place to place in an effort to hide his powers from the world, hugely popular series The Wire and was seen in last year’s Alien semi- old Trek fans and accessible to newcomers but when General Zod, one of the last remaining survivors of Krypton, prequel, Prometheus, plays a tough commanding officer and Japan’s and he has worked his magic again on this comes to Earth looking for a chance to rebuild his world, and destroy this own Rinko Kikuchi, the actress nominated for an Academy Award for entertaining sequel. planet in the process, he must decide what kind of man he wants to become. her role in the 2006 movie Babel plays Becket’s co-pilot, Mako Mori.

AUG 10 White House Down AUG 24 or a threat of a more earthly nature than in some of the other big screen Fofferings this month, White House Down sees the famous building and symbol of U.S. governance under attack from a paramilitary force. Jamie Foxx stars as President James Sawyer and Channing Tatum – giving his daughter a tour of the White House at the time of the attack – is World War Z the cop who must save him, his daughter Gatchaman and the country. Roland Emmerich, the man inally reaching our screens after some ased on the classic anime series Science Ninja behind such films as Independence Day, The pretty troubling production problems and Team Gatchman, which was re-titled Battle Day After Tomorrow and 2012 directs, and is from-the-set reports comes this Brad Pitt of the Planets in the west, the film has now F clearly no stranger to this kind of big-budget, B zombie apocalypse thriller. After script rewrites, been updated in a live-action version, simply titled high-octane film-making. This film may not major reshoots and reports of in-fighting between Gatchaman (for now anyway). The story follows be the smartest of the bunch but fans of Pitt and director Marc Forster, things did not look five special agents, known as ‘Gatchaman’ who good for the big budget production, but issues old-school, no-brain action will enjoy the belong to the ‘International Science Organisation’ were quickly brushed aside upon release and the explosive thrills on offer. in Tokyo, tasked with protecting the world from film has raked in the cash at box-offices around the mysterious terrorist group named ‘Galactor’. the world. Based on Max Brooks’ 2006 novel of AUG 16 The film stars a wealth of young Japanese talent the same name, which documented a 10-year war including Suzuki Ryohei, last seen in the hugely against zombies in the words of its survivors, the successful Hentai Kamen and Goriki Ayame, whose film takes a different approach as Pitt’s character face can currently be seen on posters all over Gerry Lane travels the world attempting to find Japan and on every television commercial there a cure for the epidemic. Fans of the book may be is advertising anything you can imagine. At the disappointed by the changes to the source, which helm is Toyo Sato, the director of the wonderful but took a more global, political view of the pandemic crushingly sad Studio Ghibli animated movie Grave but the film is worth checking out for yourself of the Fireflies. Sure to be good fun for anyone who and is an ambitious project. can remember the original 70s series.

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com August 2013 August | AGENDA | 33 AGENDA August 1 9 Get it WHILE IT’S HOT! 2 3 10

Original Outback B.L.T. salad Oven-roasted tomatoes, bacon, wood-grilled red onion, chopped romaine lettuce and candied 4 11 pecans tossed in a blue cheese vinaigrette. 5 7 8

For a limited time only! Enjoy a juicy Premium Strip Steak and a delicious Outback original B.L.T. salad at any Outback Steakhouse (available until Sep 1st) 6 12 AGENDA: THE WEEKENDER ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN August Premium Strip Steak A well marbled and juicy 1 AUG 8 2 AUG 9-11 3 Aug 14-17 4 AUG 24-25 9 AUG 8 10 AUG 16-18 Aussie Black Angus Nas Zushi Beach Fest Discovery 13 Udon Grand Prix Aerosonic Shiba Oktoberfest strip steak that will The feud-prone Weekend-long MTV- Techno/house music Prefectures compete Aerosmith and Japanese This event should really truly delight your rapper still ranks sponsored seaside fest in the mountains of to solidify claims of rock giants B’z, together simply be called ‘spend all tastebuds! Served with amongst the top hip hop artists and festivities with Japan’s biggest pop Gifu with Darren Emerson and Joris having Japan’s best udon: you queue on the same stage, sharing guitar riffs your money getting drunk on your choice of two side lyricists of all time. stars – and smallest bikinis. Voorn setting the tone. to sample their noodles. and screeching voices. big beers under Tokyo Tower’ – which items and a cup of Soup When: 18:00 (doors) Where: Zushi Beach | How much: ¥7,800 Where: Hiwada Campsite, Gifu Time: 10:00-20:00 | How much: Free Time: 17:30 (doors) sounds good to us... of the Day or a salad Where: Yokohama Bay Hall (one day)/¥19,800 (3-day pass) How much: ¥15,000 Where: Yoyogi Park How much: ¥12,000- ¥15,000 Where: Shiba Koen (House or Cesar) How much: ¥7,500 More info: www.mtvjapan.com/ More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.u-1gp.com Where: Chiba Marine Stadium More info/timetable: More info: www.creativeman.co.jp zushifes2013 More info: www.creativeman.co.jp www.oktoberfest.jp/2013shiba

5 AUG 25 6 AUG 12 7 AUG 26 8 AUG 10-11 11 AUG 31 12 AUG 24-25 Summer Sounds Palma Violets Jason Mraz Caribbean/Latin Asakusa Samba Carnival Koenji Awaodori An afternoon of One of many many Coffee shop soundtrack Street Fest Shake it to the beat at this About the biggest in sounds and cocktails reasons Summer Sonic favourite singer/ Infectious steel drum fiesta modeled on Rio’s Tokyo, Koenji’s annual on the gorgeous grounds of sold out this year, but don’t fear if songwriter is back for a Midsummer beats will provide the soundtrack famed event – feathers and glitter street dance festival crams the L’Institut Français, featuring Ko you’re a fan of the London rockers. Night’s Dream-themed gig. to this Yoyogi Park extravaganza. included. streets to capacity for two evenings Kimura, DJ Aki and Ezypt (above). Time: 18:00 (doors) | How much: ¥5,500 Time: 18:00 (doors) | How much: ¥7,500 Where: Yoyogi Park Time: 13:30-18:00 | How much: Free of revelry. Where: L’Institut Français du Japon, Where: Club Quattro, Shibuya Where: Studio Coast, Shin-Kiba How much: Free Where: Asakusa Time: 17:00-20:00 | How much: Free How much: ¥3,500 (door)/¥2,500 | More More info: www.creativeman.co.jp More info: www.smash-jpn.com More info: www.tokyoweekender.com More info: www.asakusa-samba.org Where: Around Koenji info: www.facebook.com/blackoutevent More info: www.koenji-awaodori.com

August 2013 www.tokyoweekender.com www.tokyoweekender.com August 2013 BACK IN THE DAY: AUGUST 1988 Check out the scene in Tokyo from 1988! You can read the rest of this issue (No.32 1988) and view Weekender’s 42 year archive online. www.tokyoweekender.com/weekender-archives/