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2012 JUNE vol. 13

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QR Quality Review

The Tiger tacook microcomputer-controlled rice cooker The finest-quality kasutera, gifted to the king of Spain and exclusive to Ginza 匠

A promising technology for powering humanoid robots?

Development of an Ultracompact Gas Turbine Capable of Generating Large Amounts of Power Anywhere

［FEATURE］

Gasoline or Electricity? That is the Question

The ElectricCar Evolves The Age of Electric Cars: The Prologue to 2020

2012 June

eng.jqrmag.com 03

C O N T E N T S June 2012 (published on May 7, 2012)

This Month’s New Opening

05 Gundam Front Tokyo 07 The Shirano Theater Hiroshi Sawada’s

09 Theory of Cafe Evolution 10

The Age of Electric Cars: The Prologue to 2020

Gasoline or Electricity? That is the Question

Photography/Satoru Naito

The Electric Car Evolves

Rejoice, the Season is Upon Us! Spring/Summer Golf 201

Golf Makes Life Beautiful

44 Our Handpicked Selection of Depa-Chika Epicurean Bento

Spotting hot trends in Tokyo

STREET SNAP 20 22

50 Music&Art

Quality Review

The Tiger tacook microcomputer-controlled rice cooker

52 HotPicks What's New 54

Quality Review

The finest-quality kasutera, gifted to the king of Spain and 匠

A promising technology for powering humanoid robots?

Development of an Ultra-compact Gas Turbine Capable of Generating Large Amounts of Power Anywhere

Continuing serial［Essay］

Japan and Me: The Modern is in the Traditional Francoise Morechand, Essayist In Praise of Fine Sake

Gokyo

Daiginjo Saito no Shizuku

● IHI Corporation

Editorial Committee

Touring the Festivals of Japan

Rinnoji Temple’s Gohan-shiki (rice-forcing) Festival (April 2) is an unusual ordeal in Nikko

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Jun Shinozuka

Editors

Jun Nakaki

Syozou Izuishi

Tanehide Egami

Christine Lavoie-Gagnon

Shinichi Hanawa

Ayako Oda

Ryuichiro Matsubara

Dai Furusawa

Humio Maruyama

Web Director

Tokuhisa Maruyama

Yumi Yamaguchi

Designer

Wakako Kawasaki

［Fashion Critic］［Executive Producer, Ecole De Cuisine Egami］［Joint Representative Director Ramsar Network Japan］［Economist, Professor at the University of Tokyo］

［High-Tech Industry Innovation Agency］

［Travel Writer］

Additional Editing

High-Tech Industry Innovation Agency

Planning

Integral Corp.

Editing

Digital Lights Inc.

Translation

Manabiya Inc.

JQR editorial department

2-1-14 Sarugakucho, Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 101-0064 03-3518-2270 JQR advertising department

2-1-14 Sarugakucho, Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 101-0064 03-3518-4488

eng.jqrmag.com 2012 June

This Month’s New Opening

Gundam Front Tokyo Photography/Tomoya Takai Text/JQR

c 創通・サンライズ

EXHIBITION

URL

http://gundamfront-tokyo.com/jp/

c SOTSU・SUNRISE

A Core Fighter in front of Strike Freedom Gundam. The Mobile Suit Gundam display in front of the Core Fighter plays music from the finale.

Admission tickets, which are also available via the web site, are sold for specific days and times, so be sure to make reservations early. Ticket reservation by lottery begins on the first of the month, and general ticket sales begin on the 15th, two months prior to admission.

MAP

PHOTO SPOT Aqua City Odaiba

Hotel Nikko Tokyo

West Park Bridge

Daiba Station

re ho ys Ba

w Ne

e Lin me mo a k uri Fuji Television it Y ns Headquarter Tra

e ut Ro

Gundam Front Tokyo ay sw gan s e an pr W Ex to hu Symbol Promenade Park S of

Tokyo Teleport

ine iL ka Rin

VenusFort

Aomi 1 Chome c SOTSU・SUNRISE

Five minutes’ walk from Daiba Station on the Yurikamome Line. Three minutes’ walk from TWR Tokyo Teleport Station. Special parking available at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza.

A Powerful and Exciting Display! Gundam – the epic Japanese robot anime – first aired in 1979 with the TV series Mobile Suit Gundam. Over thirty years later the franchise is in its nearly ten series and has a large number of spinoffs, including comics and novels. Enjoy exhibits and videos spanning the entire Gundam series at Gundam Front Tokyo on the seventh floor of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, which opened in the Tokyo Waterfront area on April 19. A colossal, full-sized model of Strike

Find your favorite character from previous seasons on the character photo spot at the Dome-G wall, and take a photo together.

Freedom Gundam (from the Mobile Suit Gundam Seed series) almost reaches the ceiling of the main hall. Also exhibited in the main hall is a Core Fighter, which appeared in the original series. These masterpieces were faithfully reproduced down to the smallest detail. Enjoy famous scenes from previous seasons of Gundam and the latest computer graphics in the enormous Dome-G projection dome in the center of the hall. Spanning multiple generations, this new attraction should not be missed by fans of the original series or kids who enjoy the

Gundam Front Tokyo 7F DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, 1-1-10 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo [Weekdays] 10:00–22:00 [Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays] 9:00–22:00 Open all year Adults/High school and college students: 1,000 yen Middle/Elementary school students: 800 yen

2012 June

er Theat s * o n Shira

場劇乃志ら

a rakugok ow No. 2 g n i k s a Sh ltit The mu

hiran awa S Tatek I clearly remember, on the very day I joined the

languished the way mine has? On the contrary, it has

Shiraku“stable”of Tatekawa-school rakugo fifteen

grown in leaps and bounds, like a“surging eel”as we

years ago, Shiraku himself advising me to“become

say in Japanese. Someone speculated that the opposite

an authority on something, anything”and saying

of that surging eel might be an abalone, clinging

that relying solely on rakugo would never bring in

clammily to a rock. But enough of that for now.

the punters.

So what's the difference? Whether or not rakugo is pivotal to one's actvities. Thanks to the recent so-called

as urging me to put aside rakugo and make some other

rakugo boom, the public's hitherto less-than-favorable

skill my selling point. Those exploring other occupations

opinion of rakugo has improved. At best, rakugo used

while equipped with the title of“Tatekawa-school

to have a reputation for being seriously uncool, and

rakugoka”can find themselves the object of unexpected

I suspect the majority of people didn't even know it

levels of respect. This is of course thanks entirely to

still existed. Our founder Danshi Tatekawa battled

the Tatekawa rakugo“brand”constructed by Danshi

to somehow create a buzz among the wider public

Tatekawa, but it's easy to carelessly forget this vital

using rakugo, and the efforts of Shiraku who inherited

truth. At ease with our privileged treatment, we plunge

and built on those efforts, and Fumio Takada who

into a lifestyle that involves channeling our energies

supported him, defy imagination. If the world showed

into anything but rakugo, to the detriment of our true

no interest in rakugo, they would begin by drawing

vocation. I suspect this describes my lifestyle up to last

attention to rakugo at a social level, hitting people with

year, with zero improvement to my rakugo reputation.

it where their gaze was focused. All this must be for the

第二席

二兎を追った落語家は。

Dangerous words. Because they could be interpreted

Our teacher Shiraku also does myriad things other

purpose of bringing rakugo to the people, and fueling

than rakugo. Before I joined, he was performing

the betterment of rakugo itself. Obvious enough, you

sketches as part of a combo known as the Tatekawa

may think, but it's also easy to imagine how some might

Boys, formed with Danshun Tatekawa. For a time

choose other, easier options if they did not personally feel

he was a regular on late-night TV and in mass-

up to the task. Not that this applies solely to rakugo.

market weekly photo spreads, earning a reputation

Now I've finally realised that Shiraku's words all those

as a rakugo idol or“raku-doru” . Shiraku is also

years ago can also be interpreted as assuming I'd give

a movie buff with a long-running column in the

my all to become a Tatekawa-school rakugoka, and

magazine Kinema Junpo, an interest that has gone

that if I could sell seats purely by rakugo, that would

as far as providing a DVD magazine commentary

be impressive. Perhaps I always knew this, but was

on the Tora-san series. Due to our founder Danshi

simply running away from it. I've learned the hard way

Tatekawa's influence he's also well versed in golden

what happens when a tree's foliage is so distracting that

oldie hits of the past, becoming a ubiquitous voice

one belittles the trunk and roots. Whatever happens,

on NHK radio specials.

I've decided that first of all, it's time to tackle head on

So, has Shiraku's reputation as a rakugo storyteller

whatever I choose to do."

● Shirano Tatekawa Second-generation apprentice of Danshi Tatekawa. Joined the Tatekawa Shiraku rakugo stable in 1998, advancing to futatsume status in July 2003. This spring determined to win promotion to star performer! Don't miss his Shirano Daisakusen solo shows held regularly every month. Also a subculture aficionado with a regular radio program that allows him to expound exhaustively on this subject."

2012 June

Hiroshi Sawadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Theory of Cafe Evolution Vol.8

da e. Hi ros hi Sa wa Osaka Prefectur e artist. Born in turer before Barista and latt a food manufac for d rke wo Sawada ere he was attle, U.S.A., wh at studying in Se urned to his job latte art. He ret , but enchanted by back in Japan ce on er tur fac in the food manu rsue a career ependent to pu soon went ind 08 Free Pour named the 20 ing be er his Aft ed e. coffe wada open Champion, Sa Latte Art World ER COFFEE AM RE ST p, own coffee sho 2010. COMPANY, in

Serving outstanding coffee in a concentrated burst for a limited time period Recently I visited Portland for the first

the States really do have short

time in seven years. Portland is an

operating hours. Staff open early, but

attractive city situated south of

shut up shop while it's still light and

Seattle. It used to be that Seattle was

decamp to the pub across the road to

the center of cafe culture, but many of

unwind and shoot the breeze. And

the baristas who worked there have

while the cafe's open, staff from across

now moved south to places like San

the street are coming in for coffee

Francisco and Los Angeles to open

before their own shift begins. It's a

their own coffee shops. I noticed that

perfect switch, and how wonderful that

Portland also now boasts a sizeable

each type of establishment seems to

contingent of good cafes.

have its own role. Twenty-four hour

What I found fascinating was the

convenience stores may be handier,

phenomenon of hand-dripped

but they're a way of living to which I

extraction. In the U.S. there is currently

suspect we in Japan have become

a growing interest in the coffee making

rather too accustomed.

technique where boiling water is

My theory is that a cafe where the

poured over the coffee manually. I

baristas really have fun out of working

suppose there's a certain warmth to

hours will cultivate the kind of charm

coffee prepared by hand; a more

that attracts a discerning clientele.

homemade, personal feeling and a

Pub and cafe, having each played their

sense of enhanced value. In Japan the

part for that day, swap roles. It struck

technique of hand dripping coffee

me that here I'd been shown how such

brings to mind a more formal style of

a healthy sort of setup could work. I'd

service, a throwback to the coffee

like my operation to also remain

shop culture of earlier days, but in the

tempting enough that customers will

States it's all very casual, with

make a special effort to get there

customers free to kick back and enjoy

during its (shorter) opening hours.

the coffee-drinking experience at their

Think of it like a boxing match: it's all

leisure. Likewise the barista uniform

very well to fight a full twelve rounds

seems to consist of a T-shirt, tattoos,

and win by a judge's call at the end,

and facial hair of some description

but personally I find it more efficient,

(laughs). Which makes quite a picture

and honestly more entertaining, to

in itself.

head home after a knock-out victory in

Observing local baristas during this

the sixth round. A concentrated burst

latest trip to America, it struck me

of high-quality work followed by

once again how much the staff's

relaxation and getting ready for the

working style is part of a cafe's brand.

next day: that's the kind of cafe I want

I've mentioned before that my cafe has

to keep striving for.

shorter hours than most, but cafes in

STREAMER COFFEE COMPANY 1F, Miyagawa Bldg, 1-20-28 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6427-3705 http://streamercoffee.com/

2012 June

The Age of Electric Cars: The Prologue to 2020

Gasoline or Electricity? That is the Question

The Electric Car Evo By the year 2020, 1.5 billion cars will be on the road around the globe.Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s a projected increase of 160% over current levels. Gasoline depletion and CO2 emissions are major concerns. Necessity compels us to rethink our modes of transportation over the next decade. One powerful contender for the future is electric cars. Can the introduction and spread of electric cars really take off? And what are they like to use? We bring you this report on the current state of electric cars, and their future. Photography/ Satoru Naito Text/ JQR Editorial Staff

2012 June

olves

2012 June

The Age of Electric Cars: The Prologue to 2020

What I Learned From Driving an Electric Vehicle

It’s Not Just About th Environment

Electric cars are here to stay. However, the current lack of recharging facilities means that consumers still have quite a few misgivings when it comes to actually trading in their current car for an electric one. So what is it actually like to use one? We asked Satsuki Nakamura, owner of a Nissan Leaf, to tell us about her experience. Photography/ Toru Naito… Text/ JQR

Determining How Far to Drive

a Nissan shop because it was a journey of

it occurred to me how bad the fumes

The biggest drawback of electric cars

installed. A few have even started staying

from cars must be.” This is how Nissan

is the cruising range. In the case of

open 24 hours a day, but the reality is that

Leaf owner Satsuki Nakamura described

the Nissan Leaf, the maximum is 200

you can't use the charger at most stores

how she came to be interested in

kilometers when fully-charged. Ms.

during their regular closing days. Even on

environmental issues.

Nakamura expected to drive less because

business days the stores unfortunately shut

“I later saw news on the television

of this limitation. However she was

at 7 PM. More and more service areas and

about electric cars one day while the

astonished to find that she was actually

gasoline stations next to the expressways

whole family was there, and we all got

driving more.

are installing chargers, but it’s vital to use a

enthusiastic about the idea and said ‘Let’

“I was afraid of coming to a standstill

variety of means to check the power supply

s get an EV next time.’ I thought that

if the electricity ran out, and believed I

situation en route.

as long as it didn’t emit carbon dioxide

wouldn’t go out on long drives anymore.

Being able to connect with the Leaf through

it would be an improvement, and so in

However, the driving itself became more

a smart phone is also very convenient. You

November 2009 we ordered one.

enjoyable.”

can easily turn on the air conditioner, or

We asked a contractor we knew to

There are fewer vibrations, and taking the

even initiate recharging remotely.

install a recharging system in the garage,

curves is most enjoyable. The car turns

“During winter I start the heater at 7:40

which cost us about 60,000 yen. Then

immediately in the direction you steer,

every morning. In summer I start the air

in February 2011 the Leaf we’d been

so it doesn’t go wide on the corners. It’s

conditioner a little while before I get in, so

eagerly awaiting arrived. It was bigger

so quiet you can hear the birds chirping

that even if it's parked in the blazing sun I’ll

than I’d expected, but I soon got used to

when stopped at traffic lights in the

still be comfortable.”

it, and became very attached to the car.

suburbs. Ms. Nakamura also mentioned

Electric vehicles are not all that different to

I use it every day for commuting and

how you can really enjoy being out for

ordinary cars, but even so many people are

at work, and drive about a thousand

a drive when you know your car is more

nervous about using them. Ms. Nakamura,

kilometers a month. Even though I was

environmentally-friendly.

however, laughs off these concerns as

an eco-conscious driver when I drove a

“The only thing to worry about is finding

needless worrying.

gasoline-powered car, my fuel bill is only

somewhere to recharge if I’m going for a

“The first time I got in a warning light came

a quarter of what it used to be.”

long drive. A travel plan is essential, even

on. I didn’t know what it meant, and even

To provide a specific example of this, Ms.

if it’s just in your head.

though Nissan has a 24-hour customer

Nakamura traveled 1065.4 kilometers

When going on a long journey you

service center, I just grumbled about it on

in April this year. Her electricity

have to plot your route in advance. Not

twitter. I instantly got a reply from someone

consumption was 121.8 kWh, which cost

being able to make sudden unscheduled

saying that it was warning me that the back

2,939 yen (1). If you calculate this in

changes is something of a nuisance. If

door was open.”

terms of a gasoline-powered car (2), the

you accidentally forget something, you

It seems that whatever happens, anonymous

fuel bill would have been 12,784 yen.

can’t easily go back for it. When I drove

Leaf owners will provide enviable support

That’s a saving of around 10,000 yen

to Yokohama from my home in Kumagaya,

for each other.

every month.

Saitama prefecture, I recharged once at

“I was in a family restaurant car park once and saw a sign on the fence that said ‘Please Park Engine Forwards’, and

(1) (2)

After she retires Satsuki Nakamura plans to generate her own solar electricity and find ways to lead an even more ecological life at home with her Leaf.

2012 June

Calculated at TEPCO’s B meter rate lighting, 3-level tariff of 24.13 yen/kWh Estimated at 150 yen/L for a Nissan Cube with a fuel consumption rate of 12.5km/L

100 kilometers each way.” Most Nissan retail stores have chargers

Recharge easily at home. No ignition means it's safer than gasoline-powered cars. In a sense itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like having your own home gas station.

ered scov i D EV ura wn an akam O o N T i uk sons Sats d Rea o o G e sions Fiv tricity t emis s u a al elec h c x i e m o o 1N econ nt and e i c i f f 2E otely mption consu ed rem t a r e p be o ive ift 3 Can y to dr s a e p to sh l d e n h a t d t an 4 Quie at nigh e g r a h ption 5 Rec nsum2012 o June c r e 13 ow peak p

Reasons to Choose an Electric Car

Electric Vehicles are a Completely New Form of Car

It's been a year since the Nissan Leaf was launched, and a succession of other car makers have announced the release of electric vehicles (EVs) onto the market this year. Tadashi Tateuchi and Peter Lyon have driven numerous EVs and are well acquainted with the industry. We met with them to discuss the current state of EVs and their future. Photography/ Satoru Naito Text/JQR Editorial Staff

switchover to EVs, car manufacturers will go under. Currently there are 900 million cars on the road around the world. By 2020 it will be 1.5 billion. When things reach that level there’ll be an oil shortage equivalent to double Saudi Arabia’s reserves, because half the world’s oil supply will be used up in cars. : Experts differ in their opinions on

Peter Lyon Born in Australia. Tokyo-based motor journalist since 1988. He has competed in numerous car races. Japan Car of the Year juror. JQR (J): Electric cars are attracting a lot of attention this year. What’s causing this boom? Peter Lyon (L): On the technical side, batteries have gotten better. During the nineties they still weren’ t very useful, but when lithiumion batteries came along, finally they could support the necessary functions for use in cars. That was when all the car makers started producing EVs, making them into a hot topic. : What was the background to that? Tadashi Tateuchi (T): Well to begin with, there was the fact that different countries and carmakers were working on cutting CO2 emissions. Then—and this is something that’s not talked about much in Japan—there was the tight oil supply situation. : Solving the battery problem simply created the opportunity. : That’s right. It didn’t just suddenly happen, all the conditions were already there. If they don’t

2012 June

the level of oil reserves. Some say we have a 50 year supply left. : Oil production is at its peak now, meaning that half of it still remains. But it’s in places that are difficult to get to and drill in, like mountains or the deep sea, or in countries where there is political instability. So it can’t be extracted. If you try to force drilling then it could lead to a war over territorial rights. L: Yes, the Near and Middle East is dangerous. Deep sea drilling is also difficult. There was massive damage from the 2010 crude oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. : So car numbers will keep on increasing because of things like

gasoline and electricity, isn’t it? : The Toyota-style hybrid is very complex, other manufacturers wouldn’t be able to make it. So Japanese and European makers have shifted a little to the Honda-type of simple hybrid. Nissan made the jump straight to EVs since we won’t be able to use hybrids either in the long run. : And because there’s also the issue of European carbon dioxide regulations. : That’s the one which stipulates that by 2025 CO2 has to be reduced to 70 grams per kilometer traveled. Calculated in gasoline, that’s 33.1 kilometers per liter. There’s no way that could be achieved with a gasoline engine. If you look at how hybrids perform, the European Prius uses 89 grams, which is still 19 grams over the limit. The calculation of CO2 amounts will be an average for the total number of cars shipped by each maker, so it’s impossible for them to get around this problem. : It certainly is. The mileage

the explosive development of motorization in China, making oil even more necessary than it has been up to now. Which means that the only way to survive is for car makers to wean themselves off their oil-dependence.

Getting Away From Oil is Crucial : Even so, I don’t see carmakers in Japan, except for Nissan, actively promoting a move away from oil. A hybrid is something in between

Tadashi Tateuchi Motor car critic. A former F1 engineer, he is currently engaged with environmental issues related to cars. Chairman of the Japan EV Club. Japan Car of the Year juror.

The Age of Electric Cars: The Prologue to 2020

Apart from Ferrari, all European carmakers have brought out EVs. Flagship models converted into EVs are being launched onto the market. From left: the Renault Twizy; the Audi EV sports car R8 e-Tron Quattro; and an EV prototype for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the SLS AMG E-Cell.

will be how much users want to drive them. : Even if car makers try to promote EVs by putting out new models, if they don’t sell it makes it very tough for them. : That may be so, but the European carbon dioxide regulation we mentioned before does include a fine. If Volkswagen continues as it is now, in 2015 it would be fined 700 billion yen a year, and Mazda would have to pay around 70 billion. The only way to avoid these fines is to sell EVs that don’t produce any carbon dioxide. Selling gasoline engine cars with the fine amount A lithium-ion battery pack. After twenty years it is finally efficient enough to extend driving range. It suffers little functional decline in the cold, and there is no problem with halting recharging to drive.

tacked on would greatly increase their prices. A Mazda, for example, would cost 400,000 to 500,000 yen more. In 2020 gasoline will also reach 400 yen per liter, and there’

for hybrids goes down after 120

of thinking amongst their employees.

kilometers.

For example, Audi converted its

: In any case we face running out

flagship model R8 into an EV

of gasoline and not being able to

which will be launched this year.

use it any more. So until then the

Sometime between this year and

strategy is to get by with hybrids and

the next Mercedes-Benz will also

diesels, while working on perfecting

release an SL-Class model with

EVs in the meantime.

EV specifications. When you see

: I get the feeling that it’s only the

these ventures, it makes Japanese

top level management of car makers

manufacurers look as if they’re not

who think like that, and that this

keeping pace.

idea hasn’t been communicated to the regular employees. : Apart from Ferrari, all the European makers are bringing

Will the EV Take Off? : The research I’ve done indicates

out EVs. They’re setting out the

that only one or two out of ten

company position with their own

people want to drive an electric car.

EVs, attempting to foster a change

The key to their spread, I believe,

ll be long queues at the stands because of supply shortages. : Will consumers’ options run out? : It’ll be a choice between a nongasoline powered car, or giving up cars altogether. : In spite of that installation of the recharging infrastructure and so on is lagging behind. : It's been fifteen years since the first generation Prius was launched in 1997. Sales of hybrids, however, have only reached 37% of the total volume from Toyota. For this reason any immediate change seems impossible. But from now on many types of EVs will sell and in ten year's time they’ll be just as popular as hybrids. I believe that by 2020,

2012 June

30 to 40% of sales will be EVs. : But to get to that point, I really

something like that. It will be a pretty boring world for car-enthusiasts.

think the cruising range issue has to

: You’ll just have to accept it.

be solved. For example, if you want

: Is there something unsatisfactory

to go from Tokyo to Hakone, going in an EV can make you nervous

about EV cars? : It’s true electric cars are

because it can only travel 200km,

noticeably better to drive than they

and recharging is essential. Another

were ten years ago. But I don’t get

five to six years is needed before the

the same pleasure out of driving

infrastructure is ready in all regions.

them that I do with gasoline or

Remote operation from a smart phone is possible. For example, you can send instructions to start recharging and be notified when it is complete.

diesel cars. In racing lingo, they don’

Japan that’s the Renault-Nissan

and Industry is saying that if there

t have the three S's—speed, sound

EV. Meanwhile, in America, where

are rapid rechargers in 5,000

and smell. Have you ever seen an

they want long-distance, it’s the

locations by 2020, things should

electric car ciruit track day? They’

range extender. A car does up to

work out. However, Nissan says that

re interesting, but quiet and not very

80 kilometers in electric mode,

it will install rechargers in 5,000

dynamic.

then travels up to 300 kilometers

: The Ministry of Economy, Trade

locations by 2015, and has already started doing so. Since Mitsubishi will probably follow suit, in three

: They can achieve high speeds

on a gasoline engine. America is heading in this direction. By the way,

though. : The other day I test drove the

Tateuchi-san, do you like driving electric cars?

years time there should be fast

Leaf RC (racing car) made by NISMO

rechargers installed at 5,000 to

(Nissan Motor Sports International).

: I used to be an F1 engineer, but

7,000 locations around the country.

It’s true that it can get up to a high

have an equal fascination with EVs.

There’s even a chance it might be

speed, but the battery only lasts for

In 1994 I made a ZEF (zero emission

the EV cars themselves which are in

twenty minutes at full throttle. After

formula) car and entered a race in

short supply.

twenty minutes you have to make a

America. It was really exciting. Ah,

pit stop and kill time until it finishes

I could easily catch that bug again.

as user-friedly as gasoline-powered

recharging. There’s no sense of

The electric virus is pretty powerful

cars, are they?

excitement in that.

(laughs).

Are Japanese EVs Boring?

exciting car. But the comparison

: Nevertheless, EVs are just not

: It’s true that the Leaf RC is an

: That’s where it’s necessary to change our way of thinking. It’s not about matching EVs to motorization as we’ve known it up to now, but matching our motorization to EVs. : I agree with you in principle, but personally I don’t want to see

: I think there’s two trends developing with EVs around the world. One is the pure EV. In

often made overseas for ordinary EVs is that they're like driving a refrigerator with four wheels stuck on. : That’s because you drove boring

Distribution Panel

When EVs are able to function as storage batteries, home energy efficiency will dramatically increase. Combined with the use of natural energy sources such as sunlight, and a home energy production and consumption cycle will become reality. A society that does not depend on nuclear energy will become possible.

2012 June

電気自動車の時代～2020年へのプロローグ～ EVs made by Japanese companies. Have there been any exciting Japanese cars recently? : No. : You see? The cars made by Japanese companies are not interesting. : They’re just a means of transportation, really. It was quite something when the Leaf arrived on the scene, I’ll give you that. Drive it for more than 30 minutes, though, and it’s still just a means of getting from A to B. : Would that be like the shift from manual to automatic transmission? : Japan is moving away from making cars for the interest and excitement of it. But in Europe and America they still love cars. Especially in Europe, where everyone drives a manual. They really love driving. It’s

The number of recharging stands is rapidly increasing. You can find them at Nissan retail stores and expressway service areas. Improved infrastructure will take the worry out of long-distance driving in an EV. The basic infrastructure of a recharger installed in each household will be like having your own gas stand and boost convenience.

the center of resistance to EVs there (laughs). : The other day in Yokohama I

: If they only make what I call lowpriced “deflation cars”, then yes.

drove this Renault EV called Twizy,

They’ll sadly be overrun by European

which is an ultra-compact two-seater

makers in the luxury car category. I’

about 119cm wide. It whizzed along

ve recently come to understand that.

and felt very good. I was amazed that as small as it was, it still had the handling of a Renault.

: Honda is selling the Fit EV in China, isn’t it? : I can’t say much about it, but the

Honda might be able to give the European forces a fight. : So Japanese EVs might recover after all.

Driving an EV is Stress Free

: So does this mean that the EVs

Fit is interesting. Honda also plans

brought out by Japanese car makers

to bring out an old-style sports car

Osaka without recharging and made

would be limited to the Japanese

with EV specifications, which will

a Guiness record—it was a really

market?

be an incredible electric sports car.

exciting time. I converted a Daihatsu

: In 2009 I drove from Tokyo to

Mira and attached a mountain of batteries. I started out from Nihonbashi at three in the morning and arrived in Osaka at four thirty in the afternoon. I didn’t sleep a wink but still had plenty of energy and wanted to keep on drivng. But the media crowd from TV, newspapers and magazines that were following me in gasoline-powered cars were all completely exhausted. The drivers and other people that rode with them were all worn out too. : Is that because there are no vibrations in an EV? : There’s an incredible reduction in physical fatigue because of less noise and vibrations. The A battery weighing 200kg and all the mechanical parts are located on the

accelerator and gears feel as if they’

body base. This makes the center of gravity low and enables stable

re connected and responsiveness

driving. A more spacious interior than those in gasoline cars is possible.

2012 June

The twin digital meter display in the Nissan Leaf (left). The right side of the lower meter shows remaining battery charge. The improved car navigation system (center) calculates the required battery consumption to your destination and points you could reach at current battery levels. The shift switch is a dial-type (right). Change over from D to ECO mode, and the regeneration brake works even more firmly.

efficiency.

is good. The eight cars following

Engine Cogeneration Unit”, which

me, however, were all AT or

can be used to produce several

CVT (Continuously Variable

types of energy from a single energy

significance of cars. In times of

Transmission). This means that if

source. Natural gas powers the

disaster an inverter could be used

you press down on the accelerator

engine and generates electricity.

to supply electricity from an EV. Not

only the engine revolutions go up

The waste heat from this is used for

just for your own home, it will be

but there’s no increase in speed.

hot water and heating. If you want

possible to supply your neighbours

Ever since then I’ve been boycotting

hot water, but don’t need electricity,

as well.

CVT. I believe it will be the end of

then you can store the electricity in

Japanese cars.

the EV. And in reverse, the EV can

be incorporated into our lives and

become a source of power for the

communities.

: The pleasure you get from driving is different for everyone, so I suppose I’ll have to change to fit in with EVs. I've always enjoyed revving up a gasoline engine full

home. : So it also functions as a storage battery? : If you installed this system,

: It’ll change the meaning and

: Yes, it’s wonderful that EVs can

: I’ve been involved with EVs for nearly twenty years now, and I’d say that they’re pretty interesting. It’s hard to change the way you think,

blast, but I suppose now I’ll have to

improved your insulation and

but I believe we won’t be moving in

find a different way of enjoying a

used energy efficient electrical

a bad direction.

car. The other day I drove a Leaf in

appliances, it’d be possible to cut

Okinawa, and it was quite fun driving

carbon dioxide emissions by as much

despair because the future is with

along the winding roads and so on.

as 80%.

EVs, right? I’m sure new kinds of

The low center of gravity means the body doesn’t roll when you enter a

: EVs will come to play an

: You’re saying there’s no need to

driving pleasures will also be found.

important role in improving energy

corner, and there’s no understeer either. : EVs have a superb feeling of coherence.

Connecting to the Energy Network : Another advanced aspect of EVs is that you can use a smart phone to control the vehicle. For example on a hot day you can turn the air conditioning on before you get in the car. With further development it will become possible to connect them to the home power supply system. : Honda has a very efficient homeuse energy system called the “Gas

In a heated discussion that went on for two hours, the two experts had both praise and criticism for Japanese EVs.

2012 June

New Models Arrive!

The Latest Catalogue of Electric Cars As of June 2012, the EVs available on the Japanese market are the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi MiEV. Other car makers have scheduled releases for the end of the year. The EV trend is gaining definite momentum in the lead up to 2015, with existing models also being remade into electric versions. This signals a real turning point in the Japanese car market and the start of a new era.

Nissan Leaf

Car LIne up

Toyota RAV4 EV

Jointly developed with Tesla Motors for the American market and scheduled to be launched in 2012. The design was drastically overhauled based on Teslaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s powertrain.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The leading EV that dominates the Japanese EV

A compact EV that runs lightly. It can travel around

market. It is produced with just as much attention to

120 to 180 kilometers depending on the grade of car.

detail as a gasoline engine car. The cruising range is

This vehicle can also become a power source with

160 kilometers, and only ten minutes recharging

the MiEV Power Box.

allows for 50 kilometers of travelling.

Nissan e-NV200

Honda Fit EV

A concept EV based on the Serena, this model is

This commuter EV for driving in cities is scheduled

meant for carrying passengers. One specific glimpse

for release on the North American market this

of the Serenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future comes from its selection as an

summer. It has a top speed is 144km/h, and a

offical New York taxi cab model.

recharge period of less than three hours. China is reportedly under consideration as a production

Mitsubishi Minicab MiEV

Toyota Prius PHV

Perfect for helping businesses reach zero emissions

This is not a pure EV, but instead runs on electricity for

targets, this minicab will become an essential item for the

short distances and gives you the choice of using the

self-employed or small and medium businesses that wish to

hybrid mode for long distances. This takes the worry out

make environmental-friendly reforms. Its cruising range is

of long-distance driving.

150 kilometers.

2012 June

QR 1

Quality Review The tacook comes in three colors: Simple White, Sweet Pink, and Cool Black. As a totally new color option for jar rice cookers, Sweet Pink is proving especially popular.

The Tiger tacook

microcomputer-controlled rice cooker Photography/Satoru Naito text/JQR

pot. Then it's a simple matter of

the rice, the inner pot can be

arranging the chopped

used on its own for simmered

vegetables and meat on the

dishes, fried rice, risotto and

cooking plate, along with any

even cakes. Naturally, the

seasonings. All that's left to do

tacook can also be used just for

now is to push the rice cooking

rice. It comes with a cookbook

When it comes to optimizing

button and wait.

containing around forty recipes,

your diet for health and beauty,

During the cooking period, the

so you'll never be lost for ideas.

the best nutritional balance is

steam from the cooking rice is

None of the recipes use oil,

achieved by cooking and eating

captured through a gap in the

resulting in healthier meals with

at home whenever possible.

top of the cooking plate, heating

a lower calorie count, a major

However, weekdays, late nights

the vegetables and meat.

selling point for female users.

at work or just simple

Smells from the cooking plate in

The tacook is also highly

exhaustion can make cooking a

use are drawn upward, avoiding

convenient because it allows

chore. One solution is the Tiger

any transfer to the rice. The

you to cook the exact right

Corporation's tacook jar rice

absence of holes in the base of

amount for a single portion.

cooker, which is especially ideal

the cooking plate means no

Developed from a female

for women living alone.

worries about cooking juices

perspective by an all-female

The tacook lets you steam rice

spilling on the rice.

project team, the tacook has

and cook meat, fish and

In an actual test we found that

been designed to be both easy

vegetable accompaniments at

even onions were cooked

to use and visually appealing.

the same time. Open the lid and

thoroughly to tender perfection.

Using the tacook and other

inside the inner pot for rice

The flavor of the sauce was

convenient, health-conscious

cooking sits an orange plate

well absorbed into the meat and

and time-saving home

about four centimeters deep,

vegetables. Transfer to a

appliances is a great way to

fitted snugly like a lid. This is

serving bowl, add Italian parsley

work on becoming as beautiful

used to cook other foods at the

and tomato for a splash of color,

as you can be.

same time as the rice.

and the end result is a dish as

Take for example the gyudon

appealing as any on a cafe

beef bowl shown on the right.

menu.

As with an ordinary rice cooker,

As well as being ideal for

water is added to the rice,

preparing other dishes such as

which is then set in the inner

curry and omelets along with

Cook a complete meal in a single appliance! Great for solo living

Enquiries: Tiger Corporation Tel. 0570-011101

2012 June

The smart panel cover has all the standard features such as “ Warm/Off”, “Cook rice” and “Preset”. Concealed beneath is an extensive menu and controls.

The Tiger tacook

Ingredients are arranged on the cooking plate as shown and placed inside. All that remains is to wait for the rice to finish cooking, by which time the meat will also be ready.

tacook JAJ-A550 Price: consult your local retail outlet 2012 June

QR 2

Th i s i s a p e rfe c t, c a r e f u l l y c ra fte d g i f t o r s o u v e n ir fo r t h a t s p e c i al someone.

Quality Review

Castela

The finest-quality kasutera, gifted to the king of Spain and exclusive to Ginza Photos/Susumu Nagao Text/Kumi Yamamoto

can differ considerably. For this

very special castella. Only a

reason, the staff at Ginza

select few among the dozens of

Bunmeido think of castella as a

experienced bakers at Ginza

living thing, with the bakers

Bunmeido are permitted to bake

identifying subtle variations in

Tenka Bunmei Gokujo Castella.

the batter each day to adjust the

This limits production runs to

temperature and baking time

just twice a week. Each block of

One theory is that the cake that

accordingly, baking each tin

castella is

became the prototype for the

individually.

kasutera (castella) Madeira cake

The culmination of this

appeared in Spain in the third

sophisticated approach to the

century BC, its delectable

production of castella is Ginza

sweetness an essential part of

Bunmeido's “Tenka Bunmei

any auspicious occasion.

Gokujo Castella”, developed over

stamped with the seal of the

Hundreds of years later, castella

many years by Koshiro Mori, the

person who made it, a mark of

was brought to Japan by

firm's senior technical advisor.

their absolute confidence in their

Portuguese missionaries near

The recipe uses ingredients

technical skills and the cake's

the end of the Muromachi period.

selected via an exhaustive

flavor.

The recipe of this imported

process of trial and error. The

A gift of Tenka Bunmei Gokujo

confection was subsequently

eggs, which are the lifeblood of

Castella was apparently made to

tweaked over time to suit the

any castella, are fertilized eggs

King Juan Carlos I of Spain

Japanese palate, eventually

from “Hotaru no sato” in Tochigi

when he visited Japan in 2008.

evolving into the cake we know

Prefecture, with about thirty

One can only speculate what His

today.

percent more yolks used than in

Majesty thought of the way this

It was the Ginza Bunmeido

ordinary castella. Handmade

venerable Spanish/Portuguese

company, established in 1900,

fine-grain wasanbon sugar, a

treat has evolved.

that elevated the production of

specialty from Awa in Shikoku,

Take a bite and feel the subtle

castella to a fine art.

gives the cake a pervading

bouquet and refined sweetness

The eggs that are used to make

sweetness, with Cotswold honey

flood your taste buds in a

castella vary individually, so that

from the UK adding a final

moment of pure joy. The sturdy

even if the batter is baked at the

flavorsome note.

Paulownia wood box the cake is

same temperature for the same

Also noteworthy are the artisan

packaged in makes it even more

length of time, the finished result

confectioners who make this

distinctive.

Western cake that evolved into a Japanese delicacy over 450 years

● Inquiries: Ginza Bunmeido Ginza 5-chome store 1F Nakamura Sekizen-kai Bldg., 5-7-10 Ginza Chuo-ku, Tokyo

2012 June

Ginza Bunmeido Tenka Bunmei Gokujo Castella 짜6,300

2012 June

T A K U M I

匠

From the Workshops of Monozukuri Manufacturers V o l

JQR Select Japanese Skills

A promising technology for powering humanoid robots?

Development of an Ultra-compact Gas Turbine Capable of Generating Large Amounts of Power Anywhere Photography: Satoru Naito /Interview and Text: JQR

Kosuke Isomura, Engineering Head, Corporate Business Development Division, IHI Corporation Dr. Isomura’s extensive range of R&D experiences includes the development of micro energy and the development of aircraft engines. His current focus is the commercialization of his ultra-compact gas turbine.

Gas Turbines are what power jet

surprised to see a gas turbine at work

ASIMO and a score of other robots are

engines and electricity generation

in an ordinary place like a reception

currently being developed. One of the

plants. They are capable of producing

room.

challenges faced by robot developers

extremely large power outputs, but

The metal mass with a dull shine on

is finding suitable batteries, and

their gigantic size has prevented them

it in the front center of the case was

this issue will become increasingly

from entering our everyday lives, and

the gas turbine. As Dr. Isomura turned

pronounced as development reaches

few people are personally familiar

on some switches in succession, the

more advanced stages.

with the technology. If gas turbines

machine emitted a shrill sound. This

“ASIMO, as it is now, requires about

could be reduced in size to the point

noise was almost completely removed

500 watts of power. Developers are

we could handle them with ease, and

by noise cancellers and the sound of

so preoccupied with researching visual

this miniaturization could be achieved

the cooling fans placed on both sides

cognition and movement that they pay

without compromising power output,

of the case, but the shrill definitely

little attention to the battery systems.

gas turbines would offer tremendous

resembled the sound of a jet engine.

They just make do by using the

benefits and serve as a valuable power

In the meantime, the revolution speed

batteries currently on the market. You

source. I heard the news of the recent

of the turbine rapidly increased. When

take one of these batteries, charge

development of an ultra-compact gas

it reached 400,000 revolutions per

it for half a day, and your robot will

turbine of unprecedented size. This

minute, Isomura flipped the switch for

only work for thirty minutes or an hour.

was the brainchild of IHI Corporation,

some electric bulbs, and voila, the

Imagine a robot on a disaster rescue

a company that played a key role in

bulbs began emitting glaring light in an

mission running on this battery. If it

Japan’s post-war industrialization as a

instant.

lasts for only an hour, it may attract

champion of heavy industries.

“The output you witnessed just now

some curious attention, but it definitely

was 200 watts, but the system is

won’t do much good. A humanoid robot

I was ushered into a reception room

designed to generate up to 400 watts,”

that can assist people needs a battery

at IHI’s headquarters in Toyosu,

Dr. Isomura explained. “It can achieve

capable of providing power all day.”

Tokyo. I asked Dr. Kosuke Isomura,

up to 470,000 revolutions per minute

According to Dr. Isomura, an energy

Engineering Head of IHI’s Corporate

on a stable basis.”

density of around 500Wh/kg or a

Business Development Division, if I

The sliver case became very hot as

power density of around 200W/kg

could take a look at this gas turbine.

I listened to his explanation. But the

would be the minimum requirement for

I thought I would be escorted into a

heat wasn’t accompanied by any

a robot capable of performing human

lab or workshop to view the machine

unpleasant noise. The gas fed into

tasks for a few hours on a continuous

in operation, but instead Dr. Isomura

the system came from a cartridge-

basis. This energy requirement is best

pointed to a duralumin case in the

type compressed gas cylinder of a type

met by an ultra-compact gas turbine,

corner of the room. “Over there,” he

often used on hiking trips.

as it does not suffer the disadvantages

said matter-of-factly. The case housed an ultracompact gas turbine power generation system. I was pleasantly

2012 June

Aiming to become a power source for robots

of rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion batteries) such as low running time despite high power density, or fuel

TAK U M I

J Q R

S e l e ct io n

o f

J a p a n e s e

S k i l l s

In addition to the turbine placed in the front center, the photo also shows the fuel feed (upper right), the controller (upper left), and an air inlet and a noise canceller to the right of the turbine and another noise canceller on the left. The entire system including the case weighs about 13 kilograms but further miniaturization will reduce the size of the case by half and slash the weight to eight kilograms. 2012 June

Characteristics of Power Sources by Type (A gauge illustrating the relationship between the power output and the unit volume (weight) of a device)

Source: IHI Neither rechargeable batteries nor fuel cells can fully satisfy the dual requirement of high current and long running time needed for robots. All internal combustion engines, including gas turbines, can satisfy the dual requirement. However, gas turbines emit no exhaust gas, making them the most promising solution for use in sealed environments such as indoor areas.

Rechargeable battery

Power density (W/kg)

Internal combustion engine

Requirements for future robots Requirements for current robots

Fuel cell

Energy density (Wh/kg) (A gauge for running time) cells, whose substantial weight makes

bearing, and the friction caused by this

them unsuited for mounting on robots.

contact can be eliminated altogether

Advantages of gas turbines

allows the rotor shaft journal to be suspended in the air.

Then a U.S. venture came to his rescue with a foil bearing capable of rotating by pulling the air into the empty space next to it.

One of the most common internal

The quest for an ultra-compact gas

combustion engine mechanisms is

turbine began in 2000 as a study

the reciprocating engine found in

project in collaboration with Tohoku

motor vehicles. It converts fuel into

University. The key challenge the team

pressure, which in turn forces pistons

faced from the start was the number

in cylinders to move and rotate the

of revolutions produced at the bearing.

crankshaft. Energy is extracted in the

The performance of the system

form of crankshaft power. In contrast,

depended upon the speed achieved

the gas turbine mechanism converts

at the outermost part of the moving

thermal energy into kinetic energy by

component.

directing the gas flow through a nozzle,

Development of ultra high-speed bearings

bearing begins to spin, the viscosity

its impact and reactive forces. The

Suppose a rotor with a diameter of

main difference between the two is

one meter is replaced by a rotor with

the shaft suspended on a thin layer

that the former mechanism is based on

a diameter of one centimeter. In order

intermittent combustion while the latter

to obtain the same effect, the one-

relies on continuous combustion.

centimeter rotor must rotate 100

“Reciprocating engines invariably

times faster. In other words, if a jet

result in uncombusted gas, as

engine capable of 10,000 revolutions

the temperatures attained by the

per minute (RPM) is reduced to a

mechanism vary widely. In contrast,

hundredth of its original size, the

the temperatures obtained by gas

downsized engine has to be equipped

turbines are more stable, and this

with bearings capable of rotating the

stability allows us to concentrate

one-centimeter rotor at 1,000,000

primarily on the points in the structure

RPM in order to achieve the same

where we would ordinarily focus and

effect.

design the system in accordance with

“There was no bearing that met this

heat loss trends and the distribution of

requirement at the time, so our first

temperature.”

step was to develop appropriate

Moreover, friction losses are an

bearings,” explained Dr. Isomura.

unavoidable and unchangeable

He succeeded in creating a bearing

characteristic of reciprocating engines.

capable of achieving a rotor speed

In gas turbines, the rotor itself is not

of 870,000 RPM after five years

in contact with anything except the

of development, but it did not work

and the high-speed thrust generated in the process rotates the turbine with

with the use of an air bearing, which

without a large external power source.

2012 June

“The foil bearing mechanism causes only the center of the shaft to rotate. The interior of the cylindrical housing of a foil bearing is lined with springloaded bump foil that looks like a series of wave-like semi-circles, and another layer of spring-loaded foil rests on the peaks of the waves forming a circle. A shaft is placed through the interior of the bearing, and as the of the interior surface draws air into the space and leaves the journal of of air. The spring construction of the foil has the effect of stabilizing the air layer, which may be as thin as five to six microns, allowing the journal to be suspended in the air.” A development project based on this foil bearing technology began in 2007, and Dr. Isomura devoted most of his time to creating the bearing through to 2011. The next challenge concerned temperatures. “As a heat engine, the system should support temperatures that vary at different points within the structure. For instance, the maximum temperature at the exit of the combustion chamber reaches as high as 900 degrees Celsius, while the temperature remains at around 20 degrees Celsius at the coldest point at the inlet of the compressor. In a large engine, the

T A K U M I

ものづくりの現場から

The main body of a palmtop gas turbine. A power output of 400W and rotation speed of 400,000 RPM is achievable. In addition to propane gas, it has run successfully on light oil and kerosene. Theoretically, bio fuels could be used as well. The photo on the left shows a gas turbine with a heat exchanger, which elevates the heat efficiency to a level equivalent to that of a gasoline-powered engine.

distance between the hottest and the

specific details due to the trade secrets

turbines will doubtlessly be useful as

coldest points might be as much as

involved, but did give me some hints.

lightweight power generators free of

a meter, but I was trying to create an

“I started out by asking: how can I

harmful or unpleasant exhaust and

ultra-compact engine where the two

bring in air from somewhere to serve

loud noises. Perhaps humanoid robots

points were within a centimeter of

as a coolant, form it into a thin layer

each other.”

and circulate it to block heat? Well,

gas turbines will become a reality one

Dr. Isomura successfully developed

one approach would be to create

day, empowering humans with their

ultra-compact gas turbines that met the

a narrow air passage in the wall

non-stop assistance. I am looking

aerodynamic requirements. However,

that separates the turbine and the

forward to the progress made in the

heat transfer is based on the material

generator. This was the idea behind

development of ultra-compact gas

being used. How did Isomura overcome

our development project. Our goal was

turbines with great interest and high

this challenge?

to design a mechanism that would

expectations.

“I discovered a method to block heat

ensure consistent airflows from the

using a layer of air, and together with

lower temperature zones to the higher

simulation technology developed with

temperature zones while efficiently

the help of MIT and the University

removing the heat along the way.

of Tokyo, I was able to devise a way

Because the passageway is so narrow,

to ensure stable rotations in a small

temperatures cannot be measured at

turbine.”

most points, but based on the limited

Manipulating heat with a thin layer of air

areas where temperatures can be

“People thought my attempt would

that allows for the prediction of the

end in failure because there was no

thermal flow and thermal transfer. This

prior technology based on the same

simulation allows us to guess the likely

Toyosu IHI Bldg. 1-1,

approach,” Isomura told me with a

temperature distribution inside the

Toyosu 3-chome, Koto-ku, Tokyo

laugh. My question was: how does a

passage based on the temperatures

layer of air affect the temperature of

measured at those select points.”

Phone: 06-6204-7800 (Main)

a material? He declined to provide

If commercialized, ultra-compact gas

measured, we ran calculations and devised an air flow simulation model IHI Corporation

http://www.ihi.co.jp 2012 June

Rejoice, the Season is Upon Us! Spring/Summer Golf 2012

Golf Makes Life Beautiful

From north to south, and east to west, with Golden Week gone by the greens are visibly greener in the Kanto area. It's the arrival of golf season! In this feature we introduce some of the most popular golf courses around Japan. Now's the time to work the rust out at a golf academy! Increase your distance with the right choice of clubs, and choose from our selection of the latest golf fashions. Another season of fun awaits! Design/JQR

Sun-Park Sapporo Golf Course

Naritanomori Country Club

Wakagi Golf Club

Okinawa Kokusai Golf Club

Eagle Lake Golf Club

Fuji Chisan Country Club

・Golf Courses Around Japan ・Improving Your Skill at a Golf Academy ・The Finest Clubs for Hitting Distance ・Spring/Summer Golf Wear 28

2012 June

A golf course with drama

原寸大 Okinawa

Golf Club

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

上井出 ■ OKINAWA 成田 KOKUSAI GC I.C 国際空港富士チサン

295

296

河口湖

高根病院

宮里市役所

富士フィルム

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

富士 I.C

富士宮駅

松尾横芝 I.C↓ emerald green of the East China Sea. Making use of 源道寺駅

the natural terrain, the courseサンパーク札幌ゴルフ presents golfers コ with ース a 若木ゴルフ倶楽部 GS

料金所

opportunities for spectacular drops in elevation and 498 セブンイレブン小潟商店サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

I.C 輪厚 cross-ravine shots.I.C Adding calculations for the winds that 三間坂駅

Aコープ

大栄

I.C

北広島駅

車動自動道中

武雄北方

329

成田の森カントリークラブ

JR 千歳 varietyJA of challenges, including 北広島 undulating greens and 線 I.C

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

I.C

沖縄市↓

那覇市↓

西富士宮駅

This 27-hole hillside course overlooks the sparkling イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

石川

沖縄国際

58 ゴルフ倶楽部

沖縄自動車動

409

I.C

139 カントリークラブ 139

芝川駅

I.C

道の駅

↑金武

富里

沖縄国際ゴルフ倶楽部

富士チサンカントリークラブ

成田 I.C

東名高速道路

動車動東関東自

Kokusai

動車動自東関

東総有料道路料金所

佐原八日市場線

助沢東総有料道路

I.C 魚秀

竹山温泉

武雄温泉駅 34 blow through the course, players will36need to島松mount a 川 35

成田の森カントリークラブ

島松駅

clever attack, but surrounded by expansive, semitropical

MAP

incredible round.

Michi-no-Eki Kamiide Interchange

I.C 富士チサンカントリークラブ 139

宮里市役所 Shim

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

三間坂駅

498 セブンイレブン武雄北方

I.C

Aコープ武雄温泉駅

源道寺駅

成田の森カ

JR 千歳

線

I.C

GS 小潟商店

富士宮駅

北広島

58 ゴ

I.C

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

料金所

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

大栄

東

I.C

北広島駅

動車動自東関

I.C 輪厚

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

Naritanomori Country Club 富士

富士フィルム

松尾横芝 I.C↓

沖縄国際ゴル

那覇市↓

高根病院 awa tsug ama Shimamatsu Station イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

296

409

成田国際空港

東名高速道路

295

Takeyama Onsen

I.C

Okin awa Expre ssway

This course was designed by Desmond Muirhead, an architect

富里

成田 I.C

Sawara Yoka Ichiba Line ay Sukezawa w IC 富士チサンカントリークラブ s s Interchange e pr Toso Tollway Ex I.C nto 道の駅河口湖上井出 Ka Uohide

車動自動道中

■ WAKAGI GC

Wattsu Interchange 東自動車動東関

329

Interchange

Toll Plaza

西富士宮駅

Wakagi Golf Club

Station

Kitahiroshima Station

Sun Park Sapporo イGolf ーグルレイクゴルフクラブ Course

51 Taiei Toso Tollway Toll Plaza

JR Ch itose L ine

芝川駅

A Co-op A Setting Out of aMimasaka Landscape Station TakeoPainting Onsen 34

↓ Naha City

7-11

Takeo Kitagata Interchange

ay sw 車動 xpres 自動 oE 道中 kkaid Ho

498

GS Ogata Shoten

miy

Okinawa Kokusai Golf Club

Fujinomiya Station Gendoji Station

原寸大

Kita-Hiroshima Interchange

Ishikawa Interchange

Moon Beach

Fuji Interchange

no Fuji hiNis tion Sta

Wakagi Golf Club

Fuji Film

ation

Tomisato Course: 27 holes Length: 10,522 yards Par: 108 City Hall Average Rates: ￥5,500- ￥14,200 Eagle Lake Golf Club 1043 Fuchaku, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange IC↓ TEL 098- 965 -1100 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp/okinawa/

Sun Marina Hotel

↓ Okinawa City

409

a St Shibakaw

Fuji IC IC Tomisato Interchange Chisan 296 139 139 Country Club Takane Hospital From Naha, about 7km off the Okinawa Expressway's Ishikawa interchange

IC Kawaguchiko Interchange

Tomei Expressway

IC ressway anto Exp Higashi-K hange 295 Narita erc International Int rita Na Airport

↑ Kin

greenery and remarkable views, they are sure to enjoy an

東総有

竹山温泉

川島松

島松駅

intimately familiar with Eastern thought. Each hole is integrated with its natural surroundings, creating superb scenery reminiscent of a landscape painting. including the recreation of a famous hole at the St. Andrew's Old

296

409

Takane Hospital

Tomisato City Hall

Located in a region rich in hot springs, the course offers the enticement of an open-air bath following your round.

Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange IC↓

MAP

Wakagi Golf Club

Kita-Hiroshim

498

7-11

Takeo Kitagata Interchange

A Co-op Mimasaka Station Takeo Onsen 34 Station

2012 June

id kka Ho

Ogata Shoten JA

道中

75 minutes from Hakata Station by train and taxi Course: 18 holes Length: 6,837 yards Par: 72 Average Rates: ￥6,500- ￥18,300 1939-1 Motobe, Wakaki-cho, Takeo City, Saga Prefecture TEL 0954-26-3030 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp/wakagi/

Eagle Lake Golf Club

throughout to provide a tough, but beautiful, golf experience.

a Statio

Course, the birthplace of golf. Creeks and bunkers are positioned

IC Tomisato Interchange

Shibakaw

The course is also noteworthy for a number of other features,

IC ressway anto Exp Higashi-K hange 295 Narita International Narita Interc Airport

With Beautiful Mt. Fuji on Your Side

Fuji Chisan原寸大 Country Club

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ 295

富里

296

I.C 富士チサンカントリークラブ 139

高根病院

松尾横芝 I.C↓

北広島

倶楽部 a bunker and approach practice area. Almost every GS hole

of the 27 offers views of Mt. Fuji.

498 セブンイレブン武雄北方

Aコープ Fairways are broad and flat, allowing golfers to swing 三間坂駅

武雄温泉駅

away without worrying about going out of bounds. The

線

I.C

料金所

川島松

MAP

武雄北方

I.C

Aコープ

成田の森カント

線

料金所

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

大栄

I.C

北広島駅

動車動自東関

I.C 輪厚

↓ Naha City

那覇市↓

498 セブンイレブン

武雄温泉駅

Tomei Expressway

東総有料料金所

助

東総有料道路

竹山温泉

川島松

島松駅

MAP IC ressway anto Exp Higashi-K hange 295 Narita International Narita Interc Airport

IC Tomisato Interchange 296

409

Takane Hospital

Eagle Lake Golf Club

F Ch Coun

Tomisato City Hall

a Statio Shibakaw

2012 June

三間坂駅

源道寺駅

JR 千歳

I.C

沖縄国

58 ゴルフ倶

富士 I.C 富士宮駅

北広島

小潟商店

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

河口湖

東名高速道路

About 20 minutes by taxi from Narita Airport Course: 18 holes Length: 6,506 yards Par: 72 Average Rates: ￥4,000- ￥18,800 201 Aza Gojo, Sakai, Shibayamacho, Sanbu-gun, Chiba Prefecture TEL 0479-78-6201 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp/eaglelake/

西富士宮駅

challenge for the more athletic.

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

沖縄国際ゴルフ倶

I.C

富士フィルム

松尾横芝 I.C↓

Lake from around the world. The course itself is kind to the average golfer, while providing a highly strategic

高根病院

車動自動道中

offers international memberships, golfers come to Eagle

miy

Learning Center, which offers golf lessons. Because it also

道の駅

I.C 富士チサンカントリークラブ 139

宮里市役所

one of Japan's few clubhouses designed in an Early Facilities include a well-stocked pro shop and the PGM

no Fuji hiNis tion Sta

296 409

awa tsug ama Shim Shimamatsu Station

上井出

成田国際空港

ss pre Ex to n Ka

Takeyama Onsen

295

芝川駅

I.C

Toll Plaza

Wattsu Interchange

成田 I.C

富里

Kitahiroshima Station

富士チサンカントリークラブ

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ動車動東関東自

JR Ch itose L ine

原寸大

Moon Beach

Fujinomiya Station Gendoji Station

Sun Park Sapporo Golf Course

American style, beverage carts, and other services.

ay sw 車動 xpres 自動 oE 道中 kkaid Ho

A Co-op Mimasaka Station Takeo Onsen 34 Station

Fuji Interchange

7-11

Takeo Kitagata Interchange

This friendly course makes golfers feel at home, with

a Statio

GS Ogata Shoten

■ EAGLE LAKE GOLF CLUB

Fuji Film

498

Sun M

Kawaguchiko Interchange

Fuji IC Chisan 139 Country Club 139

Kita-Hiroshima Interchange

Michi-no-Eki Kamiide Interchange

Airport

Shibakaw

Wakagi Golf Club

Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange IC↓

Wakagi Golf Club

GS Ogata Shoten

Kita-Hiroshima Inte

498

7-11

Takeo Kitagata Interchange

車動自動 o 道中 kkaid Ho

魚秀

IC ressway anto Exp Higashi-K hange 295 Narita International Narita Interc IC Tomisato Interchange

Eagle Lake Golf Club

東総有料道路

I.C

島松駅

10 minutes by taxi from Fuji Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line 296 Takane Hospital Course: 27 holes Length: 10,001 yards Par: 108 409 Tomisato Course Ratings: Suruga/Shiraito: 70.9 Fuji/Suruga: 70.0 Shiraito/Fuji:City70.7 Hall Eagle Lake Averages Rates: ￥6,000- ￥14,800 Golf Club 2662 Nishiyama, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange IC↓ TEL 0544-65 -1011 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp/fuji/

The Full Enjoyment of Golf

佐原八日市場線

助沢

成田の森カントリークラブ

setting makes the course enjoyable for both beginners and advanced golfers.

東総有料道路料金所

竹山温泉

I.C

動車動自東関

I.C 輪厚

大栄

北広島駅

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

329

成田の森カントリークラブ

JR 千歳

車動自動道中

小潟商店

源道寺駅

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

cool and refreshing. Facilities include a若木ゴルフ倶楽部 driving range and 若木ゴルフ

富士 I.C 富士宮駅

石川

沖縄国際 I.C 58 ゴルフ倶楽部

沖縄市↓

course offers light winds and mild temperatures, even in

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

那覇市↓

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

winter, with no worry of snow. Summers, conversely, are

河口湖

富士フィルム西富士宮駅

宮里市役所 Because of its ideal location to the south of Mt. Fuji, this

I.C

沖縄自動車動

409

道の駅

上井出

成田国際空港

芝川駅

I.C

沖縄国際ゴルフ倶楽部

富士チサンカントリークラブ

成田 I.C

↑金武

動車動東関東自

東名高速道路

■ OKINAWA KOKUSAI GC

原寸大イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

沖縄国際ゴルフ倶楽部

富士チサンカントリークラブ

成田 I.C

I.C

Boasting a Full Range of Facilities I.C

上井出

成田国際空港

I.C 富士チサン 139 カントリークラブ 139

高根病院

富士フィルム

松尾横芝 I.C↓

源道寺駅

北広島

JR 千歳

線

I.C

■ NARITANOMORI COUNTRY CLUB 498 セブンイレブン小潟商店サンパーク札幌 GS

車動自動道中

武雄北方

JA Aコープ

I.C

料金所

I.C

動車動自東関

Each hole武雄温泉駅 on this course is separated by36 woods, and 34

三間坂駅

大栄

北広島駅

ゴルフコース

I.C 輪厚

329

成田の森カントリークラブ

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

若木ゴルフ倶楽部若木ゴルフ倶楽部

富士 I.C 富士宮駅

I.C

沖縄市↓

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

石川

沖縄国際

58 ゴルフ倶楽部那覇市↓

西富士宮駅

宮里市役所

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

沖縄自動車動

409

芝川駅

Naritanomori Country Club 296

河口湖

東名高速道路

295

富里

道の駅

↑金武

動車動東関東自

東総有料道路料金所

佐原八日市場線

助沢

I.C

東総有料道路

魚秀

竹山温泉

川島松

成田の森カントリークラブ

島松駅

fairways are flat with good visibility. Carts are equipped with the latest GPS navigation system, enabling golfers an Higashi-K

Michi-no-Eki Kamiide Interchange

hange 295 Narita

rounds in the winter without having toTomisato worry about early

Fuji Interchange

no Fuji hiNis tion Sta

Eagle Lake sunsets. Close to Narita Airport, and with a 19-room hotel Golf Club

miy

on the grounds, Naritanomori is well-situated for IC↓ getting Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange

Fujinomiya Station Gendoji Station

MAP

a round in before a flight. Kita-Hiroshima Interchange

Wakagi Golf Club

ay sw 車動 xpres 自動 oE 道中 kkaid Ho

40 minutes by car from Narita Airport 498 ShotenPar: 7-11 Course: 18 holes Length: 6,681Ogata yards 72 Takeo Kitagata Interchange JA Course Rating: 71.1 IC Average Rates: ￥3,500- ￥18,700 A Co-op Station Prefecture 2628-4 Yamakura, Katori Mimasaka City, Chiba Takeo Onsen 34 Station 35 TEL 0478-79-1000 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp/naritanomori/

Sun Park Sapporo Golf Course

原寸大

296

高根病院

35 A 27-hole course located on the Ishikari Plain.

498 セブンイレブン武雄北方

I.C

Aコープ武雄温泉駅

線

料金所

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

大栄

I.C

北広島駅

動車動自東関

I.C 輪厚

329

成田の森カントリークラブ

JR 千歳

I.C

沖縄市↓

北広島

車動自動道中

三間坂駅

源道寺駅

サンパーク札幌ゴルフコース

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

小潟商店

富士 I.C 富士宮駅

石川

沖縄国際

58 ゴルフ倶楽部

沖縄自動車動

松尾横芝 I.C↓

サンマリーナホテルムーンビーチ

那覇市↓

西富士宮駅

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ

■ SUN-PARK SAPPORO GOLF JACOURSE

河口湖

富士フィルム

宮里市役所

若木ゴルフ倶楽部

道の駅

I.C 富士チサンカントリークラブ 139

Sun Park Sapporo Golf Course 409

沖縄国際ゴルフ倶楽部 ↑金武

上井出

成田国際空港

Uohide

Naritanomori Country Club

I.C 東名高速道路

295

芝川駅

Nature on a Grand Scale

I.C

Sawara Yoka Ichiba Line Sukezawa IC Interchange

awa tsug ama Shim Shimamatsu Station

成田 I.C

富里

329

Interchange

ay sw res xp Toso Tollway E nto Ka

Takeyama Onsen

富士チサンカントリークラブ

イーグルレイクゴルフクラブ動車動東関東自

Kitahiroshima Station

Toll Plaza

Wattsu Interchange

51 Taiei Toso Tollway Toll Plaza

JR Ch itose L ine

Okinawa Kokusai Golf Club

↓ Naha City

Fuji Film

ation

City Hall

Ishikawa Interchange

Moon Beach

東総有料道路料金所

佐原八日市場線

助沢東総有料道路

I.C 魚秀

竹山温泉

川島松

↓ Okinawa City

409

Fuji IC Chisan 139 Country Club 139

Okin awa Expre ssway

a St Shibakaw

IC Tomisato Interchange

making for cool evening rounds in the 296 summer, and full Takane Hospital

Sun Marina Hotel

Kawaguchiko Interchange

Tomei Expressway

erc rita Int Nafor the greens. All 18 holes are also equipped night play, International Airport

↑ Kin

to check the distance to the pin and even the grain of IC ssway to Expre

成田の森カントリークラブ

島松駅

While relatively flat, with only a 4 to 5 meter range in elevation, the course features ponds in key places. On the West Course, the layout forces golfers to go around the pond on the left between holes No.

Wakagi Golf Club

MAP

and cooling breezes.

Matsuo Yokoshiba Interchange IC↓

Kita-Hiroshima Interchange

JA GS

ay sw 車動 xpres 自動 oE 道中 kkaid Ho

498 40 minutes by car from Sapporo Airport Ogata Shoten 7-11 Takeo Kitagata Interchange Course: 27 holes Length: 10,467 yards Par: 108 JA IC Course Rating: East/South: 71.8 South/West: 73.0 West/East: 72.5 A Co-op Average Rates: ￥4,800- ￥9,800 Mimasaka Station Takeo Onsen 34 Station 456 Tomigaoka, Kita-Hiroshima City, Hokkaido 35 TEL 011- 372-6370 http://www.pacificgolf.co.jp//sun-park

Fuji Interchange

miy

the big blue skies of Hokkaido, with expansive scenery

Moon Be

Fujinomiya Station Gendoji Station

JR Ch itose L ine

Sun Park Sapporo Golf Course

Naha City

visibility. This is a perfect course for a summer round of golf, under

Fuji Film no Fuji hiNis tion Sta

Eagle Lake Golf Club

Tomisato City Hall

a Statio

409

Takane Hospital

IC Kawaguchiko Interchange

Tomei Expressway

296

Holes are separated by rises and sparse woods, providing excellent

Fuji IC Chisan 139 Country Club 139

Airport

IC Tomisato Interchange

Another pond gets in the way on the No. 5 hole of the South Course.

Michi-no-Eki Kamiide Interchange

Shibakaw

3 and No. 5, making it difficult to judge direction and distance.

IC ressway anto Exp Higashi-K hange 295 Narita International Narita Interc

Kitahiroshima Station

p Ex nto Ka

Wattsu Interchange

Takeyama Onsen

awa tsug ama Shim Shimamatsu Station

2012 June

Toll Plaza

Golf academy Stop Worrying and Get Going!

Improving Your Skills at a Golf Academy Its difficulty is what makes golf a fun sport. But improvement is key to getting more fun out of golf, and a golf academy is a great place for improving your skills. They're well-equipped, of course, and because most of them are located on the grounds of a golf course, you can enjoy a round, too. Recommended for both beginners and advanced golfers who want to lift their scores. Photos/Satoru Naito Text/JQR

All golfers, from beginners to advanced players, have no end of worries. They can't get distance out of their clubs, or fix their slice. They're incorrigible duffers, or can't get their balls out of the bunkers, or three-putt or more on nine holes out of a round (ouch!). Even single handicappers are stuck with at least one or two problems. While we'd like to say anything can be fixed with enough practice, in reality golf's complexity makes this difficult. One quicker way out is to talk with an expert who can analyze your swing objectively, and show you ways to address any issues. In short, go to the pros! While it's easy to pick up some quick advice at your neighborhood driving range, if you're really looking to improve, or solve some serious issues, a golf academy is recommended. These genuine "schools" offer driving ranges as well as greens and bunkers for short game practice, and can even use video cameras to analyze your swing. And because they're often located at a golf course, there's the fun of enjoying a round before

or after your lesson. You can go out after your lesson to test what you've learned, or if you've had a bad round, get immediate help in making corrections. If you have the time, you can even schedule a lesson before and after your round. While the number of golf academies has been on the rise lately, one in particular, the PGM Learning Center at the Eagle Lake Golf Club, is well-regarded for its full range of facilities. Instruction is provided by Hikaru Matsuo, a teaching pro certified in the United States. I stopped in for a lesson just before Golden Week, hoping to take the rust out of my swing after a long winter of inactivity. I arrived, changed, and started my warm-up. Then I moved to the driving range to hit some balls, where Mr. Matsuo shortly appeared. He looked at my swing for a bit, then filmed it on video, playing it back on the spot and providing commentary. I was in for a surprise when I saw my own swing on the screen. It was completely different from what I'd had in mind, and I didn't know

My instructor was... Teaching Pro Hikaru Matsuo Born in Nagaski Prefecture in 1972. After graduating from Eastern Washington University, Matsuo got his PGA teaching pro certificate in Hawaii. He has been golfing for 18 years, and has taught more than 3,000 students. He has been the pro shop manager and teaching pro at Eagle Lake Golf Club since it opened.

2012 June

whether to feel embarrassed or upset--in any case, not a swing I could watch for long. Even Mr. Matsuo looked as though he wasn't sure quite where to begin with corrections. Nevertheless, when I got back out on the driving range and followed his instructions, I did hit one or two balls more satisfyingly than before. Next, on to the short game, my weakest subject. The practice area features the same approach ranges and bunkers as on a real course, making it easy to practice "for real," and I felt a little more confident once we were done. Then it was on to the course! Full-round lessons are also available, of course, but at that point my head was already stuffed to overflowing, so I decided to play a round with some friends. If I could come here once a month for lessons, I might even have a chance to win the company tournament.

PGM Learning Center

A golf academy located on the grounds of Eagle Lake Golf Club.ă&#x20AC;&#x20AC;In addition to a driving range, the facility has two bunkers and two greens on 4,000m2, making practice under real conditions possible.

① Start with practice at the driving range A teaching pro will provide commentary on video of your swing, carefully pointing out key check points.

Loosen up and check your swing. Eagle Lake offers individual booths in a separate section, so you can practice in private if you wish.

The instructor will correct your form, providing advice on your actual clubs and physical movement.

② Gain a more practical short game Well-tended greens and bunkers make real short game lessons possible. Focused instruction covers everything from approaching the green to bunker shots.

③ Check your swing on the course Start your round while your corrected swing is still fresh in your memory. You can also play a round with the teaching pro.

Renseignements : Eagle Lake Golf Club TEL:0479-78-6200

Lesson menu ① Round Lessons

④ Ladies' Lesson Group

A teaching pro accompany you and provide advice. Both 9 hole and 18 hole lessons available for 1 to 4 players. Rates range from ￥8,000 to ￥28,000 per person, depending on the number of people and day of the week.

Women can join this lesson anytime, even alone. Free shuttle bus available from Tokyo Station. ￥12,000 per person on weekdays, ￥18,000 on weekends and holidays. Reservations required.

② Group Lesson Package

⑤ Video Digital Lesson (optional)

③ Ladies' School

⑥ PING Club Fitting (optional)

Starts at 12:00 noon every Thursday. 10 people per class, 90 minutes per lesson. Six lessons cost ￥18,900.

Your swing will be analyzed before you're fitted for clubs that suit both your swing and your physical strength. Offered at no charge, but reservations are required.

This fun lesson includes one hour on the driving range, one hour of short game practice, with lunch followed by three holes on the actual course. Recommended for beginners. Minimum of three people, with per-person rates of ￥10,500 on weekdays, and \12,500 on weekends and holidays.

Your swing will be filmed digitally and played back using special equipment. A teaching pro provides commentary and corrections. 45 minutes per session, ￥6,300 per person.

Inquiries: Eagle Lake Golf Club TEL: 0479-78-6200

2012 June

What the average golfer needs to hit big shots are:

This Year’s Best “Made in Japan” Golf Clubs!

Leave the fancy clubs to the pros; amateur golfers need clubs they can swing easily to make the ball go the distance––all the way to the green to a hole in one. And here they are: the best of the best, the sure-fire winners of 2012.

Photography: Satoru Naito /Text: JQR

HONMA ■ BERES

The high-strength custom steel head and the six-axis carbon shaft combo give you both accuracy and distance BERES is a club for every golfer, with a club head speed of 34-45(m/s). The driver has a unique ‘triple-repulsion’ head, which according to HONMA’s R&D department, “combines repulsion from the face, crown and sole to deliver a longer drive.” The seven-piece head features different materials, each ideally suited to the functions of the face, crown, and sole, including β -titanium (15-3-3-3Ti), which is not only super-strong but also gives maximum flexibility without any risk of failure. The “dual fusion face” consists of two hyperbolic surfaces combined with a U-line. The kickback area is increased in all directions. The new face material gives superb strength, power, and spring, while allowing for a thinner, lighter head. The club maximizes distance performance by increasing the lower face’s repulsion area. And don’t forget the world’s first six-axis carbon shaft, which combines carbon fibers set at 30°, 60°, 120°, and 150°, to supplement the conventional vertical and horizontal fibers. The six-axis carbon controls crushing rigidity and minimizes deformation to provide great restoration power. The outstanding pairing of head and shaft delivers much greater distance without compromising accuracy. For all inquiries: HONMA Golf Co., Ltd. ☎ 0120-941-380

2012 June

Iron

<#6-#11 (6

BERES IS-0 Loft: 28.5° Length: 37 Flex: S/SR Price: ¥945 *4S Grade

6-piece Iron Set)>

-02 (#7) ° inches R/R 5,000/$11,760 (incl. tax)

BERES S-02

Driver BERES S-02 Head: 460 cm3 Loft: 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5° Length: 46 inches Flex: S/SR/R Price: ¥210,000/$2,600 (incl. tax) *4S Grade

Fairway Wood <W3, W5>

BERES S-02 (W3) Head: 164 cm3 Loft: 15° Length: 43 inches Flex: S/SR/R Price: ¥157,500/$1,960 (incl. tax) *4S Grade 2012 June

MARUMAN ■ MAJESTY PRESTIGIO SUPER7

The combination of a lower gravity design and optimal materials delivers greater distance The MAJESTY Owners Club has 32,000 members in Japan, 50 per cent whom have a handicap of 15 or under (20 per cent have a handicap of one), although their average age is 70. These experienced, senior players have chosen this golf club to maintain their driving distance despite decreasing physical strength. The new “SUPER7,” the latest addition to the MAJESTY PRESTIGIO range, was released on March 3, 2012, after two and a half years of research. The average length of a driver is 45.75 inches, but a length of 47 inches is recommended (with an option of 48 inches) to achieve greater distance. The more flexible part of the shaft has been set closer to the grip to enable you to feel the flexion of the shaft despite the longer length, preventing you from swinging without turning the body, and delivering greater distance with a synergistic effect that accelerates the speed of the club head. The club head consists of four different titanium surfaces, each perfectly suited to its function. The driver has a deep, low center of gravity that gives a more accurate strike area. The face of the iron is coated with 1.6 mm of “Toughest Maraging Steel,” compared to around 3 mm for other clubs. Spreading the club’s head weight gives the golfer an easy swing and increases drive distance. Both the iron and driver are beautifully finished and polished by Maruman’s master craftsmen. For all inquiries: MARUMAN & Co., Ltd. ☎ 03-3526-9988

2012 June

AJESTY PRESTIGIO SUPER7

Iron

Driver

(#7) Loft: 27° Length: 37.5 inches Flex: S/SR/R/R2 Price: ¥68,250/$850 (incl. tax)

Head: 460 cm3 Loft: 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5° Length: 45.5-48 inches Flex: S/SR/R/R2 Price: ¥231,000/$2,875 (incl. tax)

<#4-#10, PW, AW, SW>

Fairway Wood <W3-W9>

(W3)Head: 230 cm3 Loft: 15° Length: 43 inches Flex: S/SR/R/R2 Price: ¥157,500/$1,960 (incl. tax) 2012 June

DUNLOP ■ XXIO PRIME

The development of an allnew titanium face alloy delivers a deep, low center of gravity that enables the golfer “to hit big shots gently” The XXIO series concept of “hitting big shots gently” was developed for average players to help them achieve better scores, regardless of their age and sex. No wonder the club is so popular that it’s hard to find in the shops. The XXIO “Prime,” which is designed for the senior player, has a club head speed of around 35 m/s. One of the main features of the XXIO Prime is an all-new titanium face alloy, developed jointly by Dunlop and Nippon Steel. The driver face with “Light specific gravity titanium Super-TIX® PLUS for XXIO” and the driver head with “Light specific gravity 811 titanium” have achieved a lower, deeper center of gravity. You can loft a ball easily and achieve a greater distance with the driver even though your club head speed is low to medium. The shaft, which improves the performance of the head, was designed, developed, and manufactured by DUNLOP, Japan. The middle kick-point makes it easy to control and the lightweight driver (274 g for the 45.75-inch model) and helps you swing through. The titanium alloy creates a light, thin face with a low-gravity structure by using a 55 g sole. This allows you to loft a ball easily and achieve the required distances for the irons you select. You hit big shots “gently” and will see your scores improve. This is a club that can take the average to the next level. For all inquiries: DUNLOP Sports Co. Ltd. ☎ 0120-653045

2012 June

Iron

<#4-#9, PW, AW, SW> (#7) Loft: 29° Length: 37 inches Flex: SR/R/R2 Price: 8-piece set (#5-#9, PW, AW, SW) ¥252,000/$3,135 (tax inclusive)

XXIO PRIME

Driver Head: 460 cm3 Loft: 10.5°, 11.5° Length: 45.75, 46.5 inches Flex: SR/R/R2 Price: ¥110,250/$1,370 (incl. tax)

Fairway Wood <W3-W11>

(W3) Head: 185 cm3 Loft: 15° Length: 43 inches Flex: SR/R/R2 Price: ¥73,500/$914 (incl. tax) 2012 June

Clothes Make the Score

Look Cool, Feel Cool!

Technique is important in golf, but the sport also requires a certain mental toughness. It helps to make sure you have everything you need before starting out. The same goes for your look, and who doesn't want to go out feeling fresh and looking great? Photos/Satoru Naito Text/JQR

Express Yourself with Color

MEN'S

GOLF WEAR The soft shirt fabric accentuates the body beautifully, and is paired with a bright skirt. Delicate details put the accent on femininity. High-neck zip shirt ¥18,900; Skirt ¥22,050; Bag ¥10,500; Sun visor ¥8,190 (All from Black & White); Shoes eComfort (Open price) (FootJoy/Acushnet Japan Inc.)

L ADY'S

This zippered shirt features quick-drying comfort and UV protection, along with a playful gradation of colors. Pair with slacks of a similar color for an even brighter look. High-neck zip shirt ¥24,150; Stretch slacks ¥23,100; Hat ¥12,600 (All from Black & White); Shoes DryJoys TourTM (Open price) (FootJoy/Acushnet Japan Inc.)

ICON TM

2012 June

Open Price Top-of-theline Series Using Waterproof Natural Leather Using Dual Optiflex technology, these shoes are flexible enough to follow the smallest foot movements, and feature superior traction. They provide stability, comfort, and unparalleled quality. (FootJoy/Acushnet Japan Inc.)

Real Feet

Open Price Employs the Boa(R) wire system Size can be fine-tuned using the dial in the heel, making it easy to fix any discomfort even in the middle of play. (FootJoy/Acushnet Japan Inc.)

MEN'S

For a more refined, fresh, yet elegant look GOLF WEAR

This short-sleeved polo shirt of cool, satin-finished fabric is fully functional: The quick-drying stretch material fights both bacteria and odor. Bright blue culottes add a jaunty appeal. Polo shirt ¥17,850; Culottes ¥24,150; Sun visor ¥7,140; Glove ¥3,150 (All from Black & White); Shoes XXIOGGS-X005W (Open price) (Dunlop Sports)

L ADY'S

Dot-print shirt with lined collar is paired with bright gray slacks for a look that's fresh. Casually elegant, and yet refined. Shirt (with quick dry and UV protection) ¥23,100; Stretch slacks ¥23,100; Cap ¥6,300; Socks ¥2,100; Glove ¥3,175 (All from Black & White); Shoes XXIOGGS-X004 (Open price) (Dunlop Sports)

XXIO GGS-X002

Open Price Asymmetrical DIGISOLE technology provides maximum grip when swinging, while torsion control reduces shoe distortion. Strong support for the feet. (Dunlop Shoes)

XXIO GGS-X005W

Open Price DIGISOLE technology provides firm grip when swinging. Light weight (300 grams) and comfortable fit reduce fatigue. Waterproof. Model used by tour professionals. (Dunlop Sports)

2012 June

MEN'S A lime-yellow polo short paired with earth tone and caviar gray mid-length shorts. Bringing together similar colors creates an elegant style. Polo shirt ¥17,850; Shorts ¥19,950; Belt ¥13,650; Hat ¥13,650; Shoes ¥40,950 (All from ZOY/Max & Growing)

Tropical Colors Bring the Relaxed Feel of an Urban Resort GOLF WEAR

L ADY'S

The chic and sexy print shirt in shades of caviar gray is matched with a khaki skirt for a refreshing look. Print shirt ¥15,750; Skirt ¥17,850; Belt ¥16,800; Hat ¥10,500; Shoes ¥40,950 (All from ZOY/Max & Growing)

2012 June

MEN'S

A small flower print shirt is paired with a creased hat featuring a ribbon with the same print, a grown-up look that is casual and yet brings out a classic style. Don't forget a classic pair of shoes for the feet. Print shirt ¥15,750; Shorts ¥17,850; Belt ¥13,650; Hat ¥11,550; Shoes ¥40,950 (All from ZOY/Max & Growing)

The Perfect Balance of Casual and Classic GOLF WEAR

L ADY'S

A lightweight striped shirt paired with cool, pure-linen flared shorts in a chambray finish, for a feminine silhouette. Polo shirt ¥14,700; Skirt ¥22,050; Cap ¥6,825; Shoes (sample) (All from ZOY/Max & Growing)

Inquiries Black & White Sportswear http://www.bwsp.co.jp/ ZOY/Max & Growing http://www.zoy.co.jp/ Dunlop Sports http://www.dunlopsports.co.jp/ FootJoy http://www.footjoy.jp/ 2012 June

Depa-Chika Bento and Deli Foods Galore

Ideal for Picnics

Our Handpicked Selection of Depa-Chika Epicurean Bento

Japan’s Depa-Chika (department store basements) are gastronomes' dreams filled with fine delicacies from all over the world. They are usually located adjacent to large train stations, which is an added plus. Why don’t you pick up a bento (boxed lunch) or two before going on a trip? We guarantee that a bento will double the pleasure of being in the open air. Here is our handpicked selection of bento perfect for outdoor activities. Photos/Susumu Nagao Text/Kumi Yamamoto

2012 June

Asakusa Imahan

Kikunoi

Since it opened its door in 1895 as a beef-pot restaurant featuring premium Japanese black-haired beef, Ningyocho Imahan has become loved by many as a place to go for Sukiyaki. Its Gyuniku Bento (beef bento) (¥1,050) features beef sukiyaki cooked in sweet and salty seasonings. The inclusion of grilled tofu is testimony to the authentic Edomae Tokyo-style of cooking (Isetan Shinjuku).

Established in 1912, Kikunoi’s main restaurant has earned three stars from Michelin for excellence in Kyoto-style and Kaiseki cuisine. Its Saba-no-Bozushi (mackerel sushi stick) (¥1,890) is exquisitely seasoned with rice vinegar to just the right point to bring out the unique flavor of mackerel from the fatty flesh. Gari sweet and sour ginger discreetly hidden between the mackerel and rice adds texture and pungency. The rice stick is already cut into sections for easy munching. A great accompaniment for sake. (Toyoko Norengai at Tokyu Toyoko)

It’s Sandwich Magic

Kameido Masumoto Kameido Masumoto’s Sumidagawa Tokusen (¥1,290) is a health fanatic’ s delight. It features Kameido Daikon Tamarizuke (locally produced white radish pickled in wheat-free soy sauce), Tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) cooked first thing every morning, and expertly-made Kamaboko fish cakes. Masumoto only uses vegetables from trustworthy sources and pure ingredients like natural salt and organic soy sauce. Choose white rice or the special rice of the month (Isetan Shinjuku)

At this sandwich specialty shop launched recently by Andersen Bakery, try the Sangenton-no-Atsugiri-Katsusando (¥578), a thick premium pork cutlet sandwiched between slices of multi-grain bread that is soft all the way to the heel. Or pick the Shrimp-no-Cream Cheese-Iri-Salada-Sando (¥504), a texture sensation featuring cornmeal bread, tender yet bouncy shrimp, and smooth cream cheese. These two items are part of the regular menu and very popular. (Isetan Shinjuku)

Kaiseki Ryori Aoyama This supplier to the Imperial Household Agency also carries a popular line of Kaiseki bento that is themed around delicacies nurtured by Japan’s nature and traditions. Priced at ¥1,570, Ryo is a bento showcasing a broad range of first-rate ingredients prepared by different cooking methods ranging from stewing to deep frying and grilling. It also features a serving of rice ample enough to fill your hungry stomach. (Isetan Shinjuku)

2012 June

Fukutsuchi Fukutsuchi is known as the first shop to sell Chakinzushi. Inside the thin egg layer are pieces of grilled salt-water eel, shiitake mushroom, omelet and sesame mixed into vinegar rice. Each ingredient is cooked and seasoned separately to add distinct flavors. With a price tag of ¥735 each, it may come in handy as a small gourmet present to a hungry friend. (Isetan Shinjuku)

Nadaman Chubo Operated by the century-old Japanese cuisine restaurant Nadaman, this takeout-only shop that sells deli items and bento has a seasonally themed line of bento featuring seasonal vegetables and other produce while they are at their best. “Kiri” (¥1,575) is a graceful presentation of fine delicacies such as meticulously prepared Takiawase (simmered vegetables, meat and fish cooked separately but served together). An excellent choice if you want to sample a wide variety of foods. (Tokyu Food Show at Tokyu Toyoko)

Maison Kayser Nihonbashi Benmatsu Sohonten Kanda Shinodazushi Established some 160 years ago as Japan’s first bento-catering service, Benmatsu is committed to the preservation of the old Edo (Tokyo) style of cooking. Nami-roku-jo (¥1,302) is packed with pieces of omelet, vegetables and fish simmered in different broths and sauces, and a whole lot more. Flavors are a bit on the intense side, which was preferred by the people of Tokyo over a century ago. White rice may be substituted with sticky rice with Adzuki red beans. (Isetan Shinjuku)

2012 June

Since 1902 Shinodazushi has rolled out a countless number of Inarizushi (fried tofu packets filled with rice) and Norimaki rolls from its main shop in Kanda, Tokyo. The tofu packets are cooked in a slightly sweet sauce and stuffed with rice spiked with crunchy bits of lotus root. Its Futomaki thick roll is dressed up with colorful fillings including flavored Kanpyo gourd strips, lotus root, shiitake mushroom, sweet and fluffy shrimp flakes, cucumber, and omelet strips. Futomaki Tsumeawase (¥840) is a combination of Inarizushi and Futomaki plus thinner Hosomaki with flavored Kanpyo at the core. A good little gift to bring to a friend. (Isetan Shinjuku)

This is a Japanese version of the renowned boulangerie (bakery) run by Eric Kayser, known for his crusty yet chewy baguette that was crowned the best baguette in Europe. Its Ham-to-Emmental-noSando (¥499) looks deceptively simple with ham and Emmental cheese between French bread. You’ll be in for a pleasant surprise, however, as you chew harder and the full harmony of flavors and textures begins to spread in your mouth. It goes well with wine. (Matsuya Ginza)

Okowa Yonehachi Yonehachi specializes in a variety of Okowa or steamed sticky rice. Its current special fare (until May 31) is Koraku Makunouchi (¥880). Choose from between three varieties of Okowa fresh out of the steamer to go with the assorted selection of vegetables, fish and meat. Shown here are mixed, chestnut and baby-clam Okowa. (Matsuya Ginza)

Azabu Asahi Chicken aficionados will find delight in the Yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and Karaage (deep-fried chicken) available here. Try Tsukune (meatballs) (¥147 per skewer), Momo-Negi (chicken thigh pieces with leek) (¥168) or Momo-Asupara (chicken thigh pieces with asparagus) (¥168). They are prepared from fresh chicken thighs and basted with lightly flavored seasonings. Asahi’s Yakitori remains tasty even if eaten cold, making it the perfect chicken meal for an outing. (Tokyu Food Show at Tokyu Toyoko)

Depa-Chika Bento and Deli Foods Galore Yushima Ougi Hannari (¥840) comes in an elegant origami-like folded container that opens up into a huge flower. White rice is hidden beneath an assortment of Japanese comfort foods such as grilled fish, stewed vegetables, omelet and julienned burdock root. (Matsuya Ginza)

Ginza Jukkoku Jukkoku is a shop in Ginza selling gourmet rice balls with various fillings. Their rice is cooked to the exact degree of plumpness required. When combined with a supporting cast of ingredients such as nori seaweed and salt, which are painstakingly selected to bring forward the very best features a rice ball has to offer, the plain rice is transformed into luscious rice balls that are firm and fluffy at the same time. Shown here are Ginza Komemitsu Ume (rice ball with plum dipped in rice syrup) (¥210), Oishii Shoga (rice ball with tasty ginger) (¥137), and Tennen Makonbu (rice ball with natural Makonbu kelp aged for three years) (¥189). Sold individually or in a lovely triangular box of three. (Matsuya Ginza)

RF1 RF1 is a popular depa-chika deli carrying numerous salads made from fresh vegetables and crispy fried items. Priced at ¥1,480, its Haru-noTsudoi-ni-30-Hinnmoku-Sozai Set platter for spring comes with salads, fried items and smoked salmon and allows you to try 30 foods in one meal. Great for a group picnic. (Subject to partial selection changes after May 30). (Matsuya Ginza)

Contacts: Isetan Shinjuku: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; Phone: 03.3352.1111 (main) Matsuya Ginza: 3-6-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo: Phone: 03.3567.1211 (main) Tokyu Toyoko: 2-24-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo: Phone: 03.3477.3111 (main) 2012 June

in SHIBUYA in

Loose spring knit shirt

ć¸&#x2039;č°ˇ Oversized vintage denim shirt

Mannish flat shoes

The girl in the center is wearing all the right trends for this spring/summer. She has on an oversized distressed vintage-like denim shirt over a light spring knit shirt, loosely knitted. She has completed her look with flat mannish type shoes, a trend that started last year.

Fashion in Japan Since 20 0 6, Lebiz Tokyo Fashion Consulting has been developing Benchmark and Trends Reports for clients from all over the world. It is also well-known for its original concepts: the Tokyo Fashion Tour (guided shopping tours) as well as its live Tokyo photos website: www. fashioninjapan.com The Fashion in Japan website provides fashion snapshots of Japanese streets and stores, covering all the market segments and trends per product, age, sex and area. Its slogan: "To be ahead of fashion, Open_your_ Eyes & Imagine_the_ Future" Their founder, Frenchman Loic Bizel (39), has earned nicknames such as "cool hunter" and "trendspotter," although he describes himself as "the foreign eyes of Japanese Fashion." He has been dealing with the Japanese fashion market "from the inside" for the past 15 years. His team's experience and connections help foreign firms to tackle the Japanese market effectively.

Kawaii polka-dots

Leg

2012 June

o in Toky s d n e r g hot t Spottin

P A N S T E E STR Photography & Text/Fashion in Japan

Spring trends spotted by the eye of Fashion in Japan... At last, a warm and bright spring sun shines all over Shibuya! Jackets are definitely off to the closet! This season, leg fashion is BIG! The kawaii-cool trendy girls in Shibuya match theirs with distressed denim shirt, varying in different dyes and patterns, or go for acid washed, fringed, sleeveless denim vests.

in SHIBUYA109 in

Large denim shirt

fashion

ć¸&#x2039;č°ˇ This kawaii girl is on her way to Shibuya's 109: The Mecca for young fashionable girls in Tokyo. She is wearing a feminine one-piece dress in black and white polka dots paired with a red cherry necklace. Her converselike platform sneakers give her a more casual look. White tights and white socks complete the ensemble.

2012 June

Music This Month’s Favorite

The Evocative Music of indigo la End Interview & Text/ Ayako Oda

The first release from Space Shower Networks’ new label, eninal, is from indigo la End, a band with an original take on the world. The sound of their melodies and lyrics evokes an imaginary landscape that feels like something you once dreamed. To enter into their music, a sound that morphs from edgy rock to pop and nostalgic, is to lose yourself in another world. The creator of this world is Ene Kawatani, vocalist and guitarist. ■How did you go about forming the band? “I put out a call over the Internet and formed the band in February 2010. It was a fairly casual thing (laughs).” ■ The music of indigo la End feels like it was made by someone with a unique take on the world. What music have you been influenced by to date? “My number one favorite is Yura Yura Teikoku. With Western music, I got a shock when I heard Radiohead and The White Stripes.” ■How are your songs created? “If I try to write a song, I can’t do it. Usually I get started when I’m going about my everyday life and a song starts playing in my head.” ■I hear you’re quite prolific, that must mean you have a large stock of songs? “That’s right. Maybe it’s pointless since they often don’t get used, but I have a stock of 600 to 700 songs.”

This Month’s Three Discs

Happy Wedding!, Hello Kitty meets All That Jazz V.A. （Space Shower Networks） , 2,000 yen Hello Kitty in a wedding dress is at her loveliest on this compilation album that opens with Keyco singing a dressed-up version of the Bridal March. All That Jazz have chosen songs with a wedding theme to produce jazzy and easy listening arrangements, such as Kaera Kimura’s “Butterfly” and an instrumental version of a Queen number. Great for listening to whenever you want to brighten up a little.

2012 June

■So are you able to perform these songs at live concerts, sort of like jazz improvisation? “I do in fact. People say our live performances are different every time. That’s why each time feels fresh (laughs).” ■I hear you’re in the middle of recording, so what kind of world are you imagining next? “I think it’ll be something a little different again. There were things I noticed after releasing this album that I also want to think through again, like the arrangement direction and method of creating sound. I feel like making more open music, in a good sense.” indigo la End is a band to watch as it evolves and refines its original world on a daily basis. indigo la End Since their first live performance on February 24 in 2010, indigo la End have done two to three shows a month and twice won awards at events sponsored by rockin’ on. Having performed in events considered gateways to success for young artists, demos of their versions at live venues have “Sayonara, Subarashii Sekai” also been sold out. The release of their first （Goodbye, Wonderful World） mini-album has been long awaited! indigo la End

Greatest Hits, Def Tech （Euntalk） , 1,980 yen A collection of the best hits from Def Tech, the band that established the new genre of Jawaiian Reggae, which happily mixes elements of Japanese, Hawaiian and Jamaican music. This is packed with cheerful, happy and powerful songs. Ballads with beautiful harmonies and a dark twist and rap numbers that build-up with fast-spoken native English and Japanese are all fantastic. Def Tech is naturally accomplished in singing a range of music, and this album captures the non-showy nature implied by the band's name.

Love Me Tender, Yoshika Kitanami （Airplane Label） , 2,500 yen A new release from Yoshika Kitanami, the jazz vocalist noted for her energetic live performances around the country, although concentrated mainly in Tokyo, Kobe and Osaka. The title track is a bold, stylish arrangement of Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender” that is more than just a cover. Kitanami’s spellbinding opera-trained voice rises comfortably, including in the three numbers she wrote herself. More than anything this is a work of power and beauty, with a heartrending touch, that makes you want to hold it up as a fine model of graceful living for women.

Art

This Month’s Must-See An Exhibition of Japanese Kawaii That Started in the Taisho Period Exhibition Period: through to July 1, 2012 (Sunday) Venue: Yayoi Museum Closed: Mondays Cost: Adults 900 yen/university & high school students 800 yen/middle and primary school students 400 yen (includes entrance to the Takehisa Yumeji Museum) An exhibition at the Yayoi Museum (Bunkyo-ku Tokyo) of Japanese Kawaii (fancy goods), which had its beginnings during the Taisho Period, has become very popular. When entering the retro-style building the first thing to greet the eye is a shop lined with cute knick knacks for sale. It’s very tempting, but try to be patient and see the exhibition first. The phenomenon of kawaii, which attracts attention from all over the world these days, has its origins in the work of Yumeji Takehisa. Artists who followed him were well-versed in the kawaii world view, and in their work we can see the different elements they brought to the genre and its subsequent transitions; Katsuji Matsumoto, who created the character of Kurumi-chan, Rune Naito, the maestro of fancy goods, and Ado Mizumori, who incorporated erotic elements into the world of kawaii for the first time. It’s also fun to see the notepaper cherished by girls from the Taisho Period through to the Showa Period, in the same way that students today treasure their mobile phones. Displayed on the walls are heartwarming memories of kawaii from women who were girls at the time. It makes you realize that girls have always been attracted to kawaii. We learn from history with things that seem quite novel, such as the peacock and white lily motifs that are rarely seen in kawaii anymore. This exhibition is one to stimulate the sensibilities. Sketch book cover Ado Mizumori/Picture

Note books Masako Watanabe/Picture Mid 1950s-60s Venice

First appearance of a naked girl, unthinkable in the kawaii world at the time. Eroticism fused magnificently with kawaii. Woodblock Chiyogami Yumeji Takehisa ／ Picture 1914-16 Minatoya Yumeji Takehisa put fancy goods out into the world for the first time. Whatever he drew, even mushrooms, was elegant and Art Nouveau in style.

Nihon no Kawaii Zukan (A Guide to Japanese Kawaii), Kawade Shobo Shinsha Edited by Keiko Nakamura, the Yayoi Museum curator who planned the exhibition. This book reveals the extent to which kawaii has developed, from its early roots in Taisho novels to the end of the Showa Period.

Katsuji Matsumoto kawaii mini-cards ／ Pictures, mid 1930s-40s, Dogasha company

Gorgeous note books for entertaining young girls. You can imagine how young girls would have been attracted by these big-eyed characters drawn by Masako Watanabe.

Cards with pictures of the manga character Kurukuru Kurumi-chan, which was hugely popular at the time

Mascot bag Rune Naito ／ Picture “Shojo Book” (Girls’ Book) A giveaway with the April 1962 edition A piece of Showa nostalgia. The bag also has a kawaii design that would have made it a girl’s special treasure.

Handkerchief Rune Naito/Picture Mid 1960s-70s Original picture on coloring-in bag Kiichi Tsutaya ／ PictureEarly 1950s to mid-60s Ishikawa Shouseido Notepaper cover Kasho Takabatake ／ Picture Late Taisho to early Showa

A sweet panda handkerchief (left) that evokes the times and a colorful coloring-in book cover (center). We can imagine how absorbed young girls must have been in exchanging notepaper (right) with their respected seniors. 2012 June

1 1

Connect With a Smart Phone to Receive and Send Information

SmartWatch MN2 is a Bluetooth™ enabled accessory that can connect with the Xperia™

HotPick

What's N

smart phone series. With it you can operate the Xperia™ remotely, even if it's in the bottom of your bag, and check your schedule or the weather, or use apps such as twitter and music players. It’s also convenient for checking incoming messages and mail while on the move or during a meeting. Attach it to your belt with the clip on the back, or wear it like a watch using

Instant Noodles that Don’t Taste Instant

the wristband.

Maruchan Seimen noodles (available in three

Inquiries: Sony Mobile Communications Customer Inquiry Center: Free dial 0120-111-156

Toyo Suisan company are a popular brand of

Remove the wristband and use the clip to attach it to a bag or belt.

flavors, five servings per pack, 525 yen) from the instant noodles that have the taste and texture of fresh noodles. A new and original method of drying noodles preserves the flavor, smooth resilience and texture of fresh noodles. Another unique feature is that each of the three flavors —soy sauce, miso and pork bone—has noodles of a different thickness to match. The noodles are carefully separated before drying to minimize the amount of stirring required during cooking. Inquiries: Toyo Suisan Customer Inquiries, tel. 03-3458-3333

2012 June

New

4 Selection

2012 JUNE

The editorial staff’s pick of the latest must-have products. This month we bring you another selection of new products that you’re bound to want.

Compact Glue Tape That Sticks a Lot

PiT Slide (189 yen, choice of five colors) is a convenient adhesive tape from Tombow Pencil Co. that is applied in the same way as correction tape, so there is no need to wait for it to dry. The lower part of the body case, which also functions as a lid, slides out to make it longer and easier to

Ride Out the Summer Heat With a New Style of Cold Beer

Ichiban Shibori Frozen Nama is a new draft beer concept from Kirin Beer. It has a unique texture produced by pouring froth frozen at -5 °C into the beer mug from a server specially developed by Kirin. The ice particles that make up the froth

hold when applying the adhesive. When not in use the case is the size of a medium-sized eraser, and can be stored easily on top of a desk or in a pencil case. The PiT Slide won’t get sticky or soil the hands, making it very userfriendly. Inquiries: Tombow Pencils. Customer Inquiries, free dial 0120-834198

feel refreshing and crisp on the tongue, not unlike sherbet. This icy froth also functions as a lid, keeping the coolness of the beer locked in and the drinking temperature just right for thirty minutes. The new server will be gradually introduced in bars and restaurants around the country starting in May. Inquiries: Kirin Beer Customer Center, free dial 0120-111-560 2012 June

Rinnoji Temple’s Gohan-shiki (rice-forcing) Festival (April 2) is an unusual ordeal in N

Vol. 3 Touring the Festivals of Japan

The rice-forcing ritual, also known as “Nikko-seme”, is the highlight. The ceremony was apparently started by yamabushi (mountain hermits) who brought offerings from the mountains that were distributed to the people.

o tw !” r o ls l, ow w b bo 75 e t on bu ot ls, “N w bo

A “Sanshohan” (bowl of rice) Approx. 30 cm Approx. 24 cm

In Buddhism the number 75 represents all creation

h !” h e a d h ig o ld yo u r “D o n ’t h

re s p e c t! E a t w it h

Chopsticks around 35 cm long A sansho (30 cups of uncooked rice) weighs approximately 10 kg The actual weight is less than a sansho, so the bowl is not too heavy

A Dramatic Ceremony Draws Laughter and Gasps

Every year on April 2, a very peculiar ceremony is held at Rinnoji

procession of monks led by a yamabushi (mountain priest) blowing a

Temple in Nikko. “Clean it all up, every last grain!” is the order given

trumpet shell enter the hall, followed by the monks who dispense the

to participants as they eat their way through a large bowl heaped

rice. A heavy wooden door closes behind them with a noisy creak,

with rice. This is the Gohan-shiki, or rice eating ceremony. A name

and the ceremony begins.

like that suggests that this is a fun, quirky festival perfect for a big

Although it is April, the interior is chilly and only faintly lit by

eater such as myself, but in fact this ritual originated from Shugendo

candles. The atmosphere is solemn, with ceremonial chanting of

(mountain asceticism) practices that have been observed in the

sutras and ritual burning of holy cedar-sticks. Flames from the fire

Nikko mountains since ancient times.

flicker and throw light on the Amida Nyorai image enshrined in the

The ceremony is conducted twice, at eleven in the morning and

hall. It is a truly mysterious spectacle.

two in the afternoon, in the main hall at Rinnoji, the Sanbutsu-do. A

The initial rituals end and the lights come on, instantly transforming

2012 June

Nikko

”

Nikko City

In this quirky ceremony held at a Nikko World Heritage site, participants are forced to eat huge bowls of rice, which are said to bring them great fortune. Spectators pay a 3,000 yen prayer fee to watch inside the hall and receive a talisman

Tochigi Prefecture

Illustrations and Text/ Itaru Mizoguchi

Utsunomiya

A tray of famous Nikko local plant delicacies is brought out after the rice Jakkou daikon

Knotweed (a parsley substitute) from Lake Tatenoumi

Bark of prickly ash from Chuzenji Temple

It’s not easy to prostrate oneself

Monks assist anyone who finds the rice too heavy to hold

Chili pepper from the flower fields

The ceremony is held twice, with six participants each time In Edo times daimyo from different fiefdoms liked to undergo this ordeal together

the scene. Ceremony participants dressed as samurai enter, and at

[avatars of the Kumano shrines]. Show some respect and eat it!”

last it is time for the main event, the “rice-forcing ritual”.

Upon being further threatened with shouts of “Don’t hold your head

First come the monks who force the rice on the participants,

high!”, the participants instinctively prostrate themselves, foreheads

dressed as yamabushi and bearing large cups of sacred sake which

scraping the floor, and then—oh, no!—the bowls of rice are placed

they aggressively press on the participants, telling them to “make

on the backs of their heads! There are even more laughs from those

sure you drink this dry”. As if that weren’t enough, their exaggerated

watching—it is an amusing festival after all. As if to deliver the final

motions when they pour the sake draws laughter from the spectators.

blow to the participants, who are now incapable of moving, a cry

Next, large black bowls heaped with rice are brought out, and again

goes up “We’ll have you eat one bowl, then two, then 75! You see if

there is laughter. The bowls are known as “sanshomeshi” sansho

we don’t. No mercy!” 75 bowls? Unbelievable!

being a measurement equal to 30 cups of uncooked rice. The rice

Next to appear is a tray heaped with the famed vegetable delicacies

is thrust in front of the participants’ faces, who are threatened with

of the Nikko mountains. Prickly ash pepper, chili peppers, daikons

the words: “This is an offering from the Kumano Sansha Gongen

… Is this some kind of torture by hot food? This stuff is fine as an 2012 June

Ten minutes before it starts, the monk enforcers enter with their tools

Trumpet shell

giant tobacco pipe

Beating the floor with the giant tobacco pipe and twisted stick is rough encouragement for participants The Sanbutsudo

The Sanbutsudo hall where the ceremony takes place is currently undergoing repairs. This whole building is completely covered. It’s a bit of a shame…

Viewing passageway 26 m above ground

This wall has a picture of the hall

You can view the inside repair work from roof height

The repairs will continue until 2020

accompaniment for rice, but still…

close. It’s charming to see the ceremony participants help the monks

In case you’re wondering what merit there is to being pushed around

who had previously been their tormentors distribute offerings from

and bullied in this ceremony, well it seems that the belief amongst

followers and believers to all the visitors.

the participants and attendees is that this ritual creates long-lasting

I was also eager to get my share of good luck, and stayed near the

good luck for your family, preventing all misfortune and bringing

front, but decided to withdraw because of the danger a crowd of

good fortune instead. Something I’d be very thankful for. The

unimaginably enthusiastic women posed to my newly-purchased

ceremony finally comes to its conclusion when a headpiece made of

camera. Good luck is not always something that is bestowed,

rice straw is placed on the participants’ heads.

sometimes it’s necessary to make a grab for it. With this thought

Just so they don’t keep the good luck all to themselves, after

I gave the only piece of good luck I’d managed to obtain—some

the participants leave the hall they take part in a ritual to share

assorted candies—to a foreign child standing nearby, and set off for

their good fortune with others. This is not just a sideshow, but an

home.

important part of the proceedings that brings the Gohan-shiki to a

2012 June

This headpiece made of rice straw is similar to that worn by the deity Bishamonten

Engi Garamaki

A ceremony to distribute offerings to everyone Pocket tissues from a local bank

Rice crackers

Sweets

Towel

Purses… for some reason

Numbered balls can be exchanged for goods beer, cup noodles, electrical products like vacuum cleaners...

My only catch was an assortment of sweets

Anyone is welcome, you don’t have to attend the Gohan-shiki While you watch the ceremony a talisman with your name on it is prepared

Gohan-shiki participants have their names recorded in front of the Sanbutsudo for the next year

They all seem very important Maybe the higher-up the person, the more they want to be tormented?

Gohan-shiki is inscribed on the rice spatula

You also get lucky rice

【Nikkosan Rinnoji Temple, Gohan-shiki Ceremony】【How to get to Rinnoji Temple】 One of the ancient rites that started at the temple during the Heian Period (794-1185) after it was founded by the monk Shodo Shonin. This ceremony forcing people to eat rice is held every April at Rinnoji Temple. The row of participants receives offerings from Sansha Gongen and the three gods of fortune— Daikokuten, Benzaiten and Bishamonten— and pray to ward off evil, and for their homes and families to prosper.

●By train Take the Spacia Express on the Tobu Nikko line from Asakusa Station and get off at Tobu Nikko Station. Or take the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) to Utsunomiya, then change to the Nikko line and get out at JR Nikko Station. From Nikko Station it takes ten minutes on the Tobu bus Sekai Isan Meguri (Tour World Heritage Sites).

Rinnoji Temple home page http://www.rinnoji.or.jp/

●By car Take the Tohoku Expressway to the Utsunomiya Interchange, transfer to the Nikko Utsunomiya Doro, exit at the Nikko Interchange onto route 119 and proceed for about 2.5 kilometers.

Nikko Tourist Association Home Page http://www.nikko-jp.org/english/

Display it at home for a year

Nikko City

Gunma

Tochigi

Saitma Yamanashi

Ibaraki

Tokyo Kanagawa

Chiba

2012 June

Japan and Me 10

VOI.

EMPTINESS” and SILENCE in Japan

When I first came in Japan in 1958, one thing that surprised Westerners when they visited Tokyo was the emptiness they discovered at the very heart of the city–– and the silence that reigned there. When they went to a museum or an antique shop, they would admire a folding screen on which a bird on a bamboo branch filled the lower register of the panels, leaving the rest of the screen empty. “Why does this composition leave so much empty space?” They would ask. They would have the same reaction when they listened to a conversation between two Japanese in which each party knew the value of silence. This aspect of Japanese society always surprises Westerners who spend their lives finding ways of filling emptiness. If you compare Tokyo’s Imperial Palace to Paris’ Elysée or London’s Buckingham Palace, the latter are abuzz with activity, with the comings and goings of visitors, of the guards in their gaudy uniforms and the tourists photographing them. What then is this thing that we Westerners call “emptiness,” because we lack a better word to define it? The experience of “emptiness” in Japan is nothing more than a creation of the Western mindset. For the Japanese, what we call emptiness is full … of itself. Such is the Emperor’s presence, which is all the more potent because it is shrouded in mystery; or the greater weight of a speech if we know how to express ourselves but also when to keep quiet. In both these cases, seeing “fullness” in “emptiness” becomes a creative act. Therein lies the unique genius of the Japanese people: to create something out of nothing. Look at

2012 June

-The Modern is in the Traditional-

Bizen pottery––a great deal of clay and a dearth of money have conspired to create one of the world’s great ceramic traditions; in architecture: A succession of rooms devoid of furnishing creates the aesthetics of space known as ma; the underemployed samurai with too much time on his hands, who transformed everyday acts into rituals that took three hours to accomplish. And what of the famous tea ceremony, with its well-heeled, leisured guests, that takes place in an empty room––is it not the ultimate celebration of “emptiness”? It is in the tea ceremony that we find the most explicit expression of emptiness, with its artfully worked simplicity and its ostentatious poverty. The Way of Tea is the origin of wabi sabi, a philosophy of striking simplicity, of objects created out of nothing, of cracked vases containing a single wild flower––a whole aesthetic that the Japanese consider to be the acme of good taste. This lifestyle did not come about by chance. Something is created out of nothing because it has become necessary. When a Japanese carpenter planes a wooden floor, he will stop when he reaches what he considers to be the most beautiful grain in the wood. The questions that Zen monks ask are devoid of meaning––it’s up to you to create one. Zen constantly fights against the trap of the single meaning. To give a question a single answer circumscribes and fixes its meaning forever. In other words, it shuts off all other possibilities. In contrast, emptiness leaves the door open to a multiplicity of choices. The West has chosen the single answer while Japan leaves the way open to many alternative solutions. The West is an oak tree that is strong but will break in the storm; Japan is bamboo that bends but does not break. But does this still hold

Francoise Morechand, Essayist

true in contemporary Japan? Do carpenters still plane their wooden floors? Do empty rooms still exist? Are they not filled with televisions, DVD players, fridge freezers, microwave ovens, video games consoles, and beds instead of futons? Haven’t the tea ceremony and flower arranging succumbed to “big business”? Hasn’t the emptiness that gave people the space to think and reflect,

and by extension, to create, made way for a new religion with three simple commandments: “Consume, consume, consume”? The French philosopher René Descartes wrote, “I think therefore I am,” but the twenty-first century’s philosophy seems to be, “I buy therefore I am.”

Francoise Morechand (Fashion essayist) Born 1936 in Montparnasse, Paris. Came to Japan in 1958 after studying Japanese at the Sorbonne. Worked as a teacher on NHK's Tanoshii Furansugo French language education series, and lecturer in French at Ochanomizu Women's University, before returning to France in 1964. Came to Japan again in 1974 to manage Chanel's beauty department there. With a career spanning French teacher, TV “tarento”, writer, and fashion coordinator, in 2004 Morechand's longstanding contribution to Franco-Japanese cultural ties was recognised by the French government with the awarding of the Légion d’honneur. Visiting professor at Kyoritsu Women's University. Overseas trade advisor to the French government. North Asia representative for the Conseil Supérieur des Français de l'Etranger (CSFE). International advisor to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Ishikawa Prefecture tourism ambassador.

Yasuko Sensyu (Illustrator) Leading creator of adorable “healing art”. All her work, starting with calligraphy employing her Level 7 calligraphic skills, and including her illustrations and essays, is suffused with a warmth that soothes whoever picks it up. Her diverse portfolio includes paintings for the interior of Le Comptoir de Benoit, chef Alain Ducasse's first restaurant venture in Osaka; murals at the En-Japan head office, plus illustrating, brand logos, wall paintings and essays. She was also responsible for the “Japan Trump” playing cards showcasing famous sightseeing spots nationwide (supported by the Japan National Tourism Organization), extending this concept further across Asia with a sub-brand for the Singaporean tourism office, and Indonesian Trump cards.

http://www.sensyuyasuko.com/

2012 June

Sake to Drink From a Wineglass

In Praise of Fine Sake Vol.

Sakai Brewery Address: Nakazu-cho 1-1-31, Iwakuni-shi, Yamaguchi Telephone: 0827-21-2177 http://www.gokyo-sake.co.jp/

● ● ● ● ●

Alcohol content: 16-17% Seimaibuai (rice milling percentage): 40% Rice: 75% Saito-no Shizuku, 25% Yamada-nishiki Volume: 720ml Price: 3,255 yen (tax inclusive)

Gokyo Daiginjo Saito no Shizuku Text/ Kaori Haishi (sake sommelier) Photography/ Susumu Nagao

An Elegant Taste To Intoxicate Even Angels The city of Iwakuni in Yamaguchi prefecture is not only where Sakai Brewery is located, but is also home to one of the three most famous bridges in Japan, the Kintai Bridge. The brewery’s main brand, Gokyo, is named after this bridge and its five arches that span the river. It is a fine sake that sake drinkers find unforgettable because thanks both to the name and the flavor. Gokyo Daiginjo Saito no Shizuku is made from Saito no Shizuku, a brewer’s rice from Yamaguchi prefecture. The instant I opened the lid, a flowery aroma typical of daiginjo—suggestive of ripe princess melon and Hawaiian jasmine —wafted gracefully up. I could have become intoxicated from this indescribably elegant aroma alone.

2012 June

Tilting my glass, the drops ran down the

The right food to accompany this would

sides. In wine terminology this is known

be a simple dish that highlights the

as “tears of wine”, and it told me that

flavor of the ingredients. Something like

this sake had a slight viscosity. The

the sweetness of seafood sashimi, such

taste was smooth and extremely

as shrimp or scallops, would be an

pleasant, and seemed to encase the

especially good match. I recommend

palate. A trinity of sweetness, dryness

natural salt, not soy sauce, as a

and acidity slowly made its way to the

condiment. It brings out the inherent

center of the palate. Finally, a lingering

sweetness in the food, allowing the sake

fresh acidity similar to orange beckoned

to be enjoyed without harming its

to the finish.

delicate flavor. Fruits such as pineapple

Mention daiginjo and many people would

and mango would also be a good

think of the sweetish sake with a strong

combination. Lightly sprinkle some

aroma that used to dominate once upon

natural salt on it just before eating and

a time, but Gokyo Daiginjo Saito no

the glasses will empty even faster.

Shiziku is a clear departure from that. It

When the heat builds up in the months

also has a good taste of rice umami, and

to come, let your thoughts wander to the

you could drink it as much as you liked

Kintai Bridge pictured on the label as

throughout a meal without tiring of it. It’s

you savor the crisp, chilled flavor of this

a sake with a broad appeal that suits

sake.

many tastes.

The next issue will be released on Friday June 8, 2012.

2012 June