Kansai Scene #147 August 2012 by Kansai Scene Magazine

I’m free. Go on, pick me up.

無料 issue 147 August 2012

www.kansaiscene.com

The girly pink Summer issue Features: Summer Sonic / Yokai Made in Kansai: Sweatshop Union Travel: London / Niseko / Shirahama and a whole lot more… + Where To Go And What To Do — Kansai listings, news, info, maps and classifieds

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Contents Features Summer in the city

p06

Japan’s seasonal spooks

p10

Just the ticket

p44

Travel

Layers and layers of London

p14

Shirahama time

p17

All points north

p18

Features

COVER ARTIST: Eimi See more of Eimi’s mannequin inspired art at The Girlie Show exhibition at DMO Arts in Isetan this month. More details: www.dmoarts.com

Food and Drink

Soda pops for grown ups

p34

Brain food

p37

Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder

p35

Made in Kansai

Printing down to a T

p08

Listings Art

p22

Events & Festivals

p24

Flea Markets

p28

Classical Music

p29

Live Music

p30

Club

p32

Film + cinema

p40

Classifieds p47

kansaiscene

@kansaiscene

Kansai Scene is published monthly by Mojoprint Publisher/Creative Director............Daniel Lee Editorial...................................Donna Sheffield ....................................................Nick Coldicott Production Manager.................. Rie Okamoto Graphic Designer..................Naomi Mochizuki Accounts Manager....................... Michiko Lee

Art................................................. Tomoko Ishii Event & Festival.......................... Yuki Uchibori Flea Market & Cinema................ Rie Okamoto Film..........................................Donna Sheffield Classical..................................Michael Vezutto Live............................................ Phillip Jackson Club.................................................Terumi Tsuji

DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. We take no responsibility for the quality or content of advertisements. Public and private parties appproached by those claiming to work for or on behalf of Kansai Scene should call this office to confirm the truth of any such claim, especially where money may be involved.

Enquiries General mailbox@kansaiscene.com Advertising sales@kansaiscene.com Tel. 06-6539-1717 Fax. 06-7635-4791 Address Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Website www.kansaiscene.com A bit of history Kansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011. Now in its 12th year, the magazine provides articles, information and listings for the Kansai area.

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

News & Openings

New look Kansai Scene Osaka, Shinmachi — You can’t have failed to notice our snazzy new look this month. To keep your monthly magazine looking fresh, KS has been redesigned. The new design is easier on the eye and quicker for you to find the info you need. For a new style in cover pictures, KS has teamed up with FM802’s art project “digmeout”. Digmeout promotes new home-grown illustration talent, offers portfolio reviews and stages monthly exhibitions at its new art gallery DMO ARTS in Isetan, Umeda. KS is proud to support these new artists as they aim to make waves on the domestic and international scene. Love the new design? Hate it? Tell KS what you think on Facebook or Twitter. DMO ARTS JR Osaka Mistukoshi Isetan 3F, 3-1-3 Umeda, Osaka 530-8558 Tel: 06-6485-7341 Hours: 10am-8pm www.dmoarts.com / www.digmeout.net

Danish Tiger lands in Osaka Osaka, Shinsaibashi — Tiger, the European equivalent of the 100yen store, opened its first Asian store in Osaka last month. Eager customers were queuing round the corner on opening day to get their hands on the Scandinavian-style brightly colored knickknacks, including sudoku toilet rolls, cow-shaped pen holders and doll-shaped knitting sets. Popularity comes at a price, however, as the new store was forced to close for two days to restock and build additional check-outs. Tiger Copenhagen Osaka, Chuo-ku, Minami-honmachi 3-3-9 Honmachi Eight Bldg 305 www.tiger-stores.jp

Got some news?

for on the lookout KS is always ents and new newsworthy ev n. und tow openings aro ggestions to Email your su cene.com editor@kansais

Carry on with festival fun

Jetstar takes off! Kansai Airport, Osaka — great news for holiday travellers, another cheap airline has taken off from KIX. Jetstar, part of the Qantas group, is offering low-fare domestic flights from Osaka to Sapporo, Tokyo and Fukuoka. Lead-in fares for one-way flights all cost under ¥5,000, with one or two flights a day depending on the route. Over 100,000 tickets have already been sold since the airline opened sales in April 2012. www.jetstar.com

Nishinomiya — Watching a festival is fun, but taking part is even better! Nishinomiya International Association is looking for volunteers to help carry omikoshi, portable shrines, in the city’s annual festival on Sunday September 23rd. It costs ¥500 to take part, and all festival clothing and food is provided. Men and women will carry separate omikoshi around the city streets, then take part in a boat procession at Nishinomiya Harbour. To join in, sign up by Friday 7 September. Send details of your name, contact details, nationality and native language to: niasakura@ceres.ocn.ne.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Cool powersaving plans Kyoto’s the place to be Kyoto — In the summer it’s hot as hell, but Kyoto is home to World Heritage sites and traditions aplenty, making it a mustsee city in Kansai. Readers of Travel + Leisure magazine agree – they’ve voted the city into their top ten cities in the world this year. In the magazine’s 17th annual survey, readers were asked to rate cities based on sights, culture, food, people and value for money. Kyoto came in 9th, with the top city this year being Bangkok. www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2012/cities

Nishinomiya — Unsurprisingly, due to limited nuclear power plant operation, power saving is still high on the summer agenda for cities around Japan. Possible electricity blackouts in Kansai were announced by Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) back in June. Nishinomiya City has been advising residents and businesses to limit air-conditioning hours and stick to cool biz dress codes as last year, but one of its cooler ideas is from Nishinomiya City Foundation for the Promotion of Culture. They’re offering free public movie screenings at Frente Nishinomiya, giving residents the chance to save on home air-con and share a movie with the community. Nishinomiya City website: http://www.nishi.or.jp For more about the free movies: www.frente-nishinomiya.com / Tel. 0798 333146

Kangaroo party Osaka, Umeda — In celebrating its 13th anniversary, Captain Kangaroo is having a bit of a do this month. On Sun Aug 19th, as well as their normal happy hour specials and legendary burgers there will be ¥300 shots, staff in silly costumes and DJs to celebrate the landmark.

Luxury cycling brand launches permanent store in Osaka Osaka, Umeda — premium British cycling wear brand Rapha has announced that its temporary Osaka Cycle Club, set up to coincide with the big European Tour races, will become a permanent addition to their global retail outlets. The Rapha brand is synonymous with style, offering the discerning rider with an upmarket alternative to gaudy lycrawear available elsewhere. From merino wool cycling jerseys to handmade leather gloves, Rapha products ooze quality, albeit at a premium price. Beyond mere retail outlet, the Osaka Cycle Club (the second permanent store of its kind after San Francisco) offers a place to mingle with other riders, grab a good coffee before or after a ride and enjoy cycling events on the big-screen TV. Rapha Cycle Club Osaka Open: 12pm–8pm. Closed Tue. Osaka, Kita-ku, Sonezaki-shinchi 2-6-21 1F www.esb-japan.com/rapha

For directions see KS Umeda map B4 www.roo-bar.jp

Down under round the corner Osaka, Shinsaibashi — Australian/New Zealand themed sports bar Coolabah recently reopened just 60m from its old location in Shinsaibashi. According to Andy Carne, proprietor, the new bar offers a more open-plan layout and easier access but the same great beers, food and entertainment. Look out for their 5th Anniversary celebrations in the Autumn. http://coolabah.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Feature

Summer in the city Kansai’s biggest rock and pop blowout is back for its 12th year, and we spoke to one of this year’s performers Text: Helen Marvell • Images: Courtesy of Summer Sonic

So what if other festivals offer fresh air and lush backdrops? Summer Sonic is the only major festival in your backyard. This year’s line-up is typically eclectic, with glam-pop androgyne Adam Lambert, electro-pop rascals Crystal Castles, altrockers Green Day, are-they-still-together Tears For Fears and some bird who sings about umbrellas, all sharing the bill. It also has plenty of homegrown talent, including Crossfaith, an Osakan metal outfit that’s supported the likes of Machine Head, Funeral for a Friend and Hatebreed. Now they’re home again and gearing up to play Summer Sonic (thought sadly only the Tokyo leg). We had a word with singer Kenta Koie.

KS: Do you have any advice for any first time festivalgoers? Drink water. It’s the most important thing to survive at a music festival. You don’t want to go to hospital!

Kansai Scene: This will be your second appearance at Summer Sonic. How was the last time and how does it compare to other festivals? We played as an opening band but tons of people came to our show. It was such a great show. Most Japanese music festivals are held in the countryside but Summer Sonic isn’t - that’s the gap from other festivals. We always get a different reaction at Summer Sonic.

KS: Do you have any advice for artists playing in Japan for the first time? Japanese people are a little bit quiet at the show, especially between songs. It doesn’t mean they dislike the band. Bands should just keep partying hard!

KS: Which other artists are you looking forward to watching perform? I’m a big fan of Green Day, so I’m beyond excited to watch and sing along with them. I also want to catch Passion Pit. Their last album “Manners” is my favourite album. KS: Are you playing any other festivals this year? We’ll play at Treasure in Nagoya. And we’re going to play at the Vans Warped Tour 2012 in London!

Crossfaith

KS: What differences do you notice between crowd in Japan and around the world? I think they’re similar, but Japanese audiences are a little bit shy, and the UK audiences love to drink! Every country has its own way of expressing passion. KS: Japanese fans are known for bringing gifts to shows. Is there anything you want? Tons of Jägermeister!

KS: What do you miss most about Japan when you’re touring other countries? I’ve really enjoyed touring other countries so far, but… Japanese food. KS: As you’re from Osaka, do you have any tips on places to visit in the area I usually go to a music bar called Rock Rock after shows. And if you want to eat Mexican food, then go to El Pancho – great food and amazing Margaritas too. KS: What are your plans after Summer Sonic? We’re hopefully going to tour the UK and Europe this fall. Princess Princess

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu

Kavka Shishido

Crossfaith won’t be gracing Osaka’s leg of Summer Sonic, but here are some domestic acts that will.

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu

My First Story

The girl: Kiriko Takemura, a former fashion blogger whose

Youtube videos went viral in 2011. Beyond pastiche of Japanese pop culture. The sound: High-fructose Harajuku corn pop. If her songs were any shorter you’d call them jingles. Playing: Sunday on the Sonic Stage Singalong with: “Jishin wo mi ni tsukete mieru sekai mo kawaru kana.” (Wear (fake eyelashes) with confidence and you might see the world in a new light.) — From Tsukematsukeru

Who: A 5-piece band from Tokyo. They formed last summer and just 3 months later were selling out mid-size venues. No other act on the bill is exploding like these boys. The sound: Well crafted melodic, riff-tastic rock offset by slightly girly male vocals. Utada Hikaru meets Muse. Playing: Sunday on the Flower Stage Singalong: “Nothing, nothing, marude. You’re losing. Sou dattandaro?” (Nothing, absolutely nothing. You’re losing. Isn’t that right?) — From Second Limit

Princess Princess

Kavka Shishido

Who: The first all-girl group ever to play the Budokan.

Who: A drumming, singing rock chick born in Mexico to Japanese parents. Went to school in Argentina. Became a gravure idol in Japan. The sound: Like Avril Lavigne swallowed a synthesizer, some speed and a Japanese dictionary. Playing: Saturday on the Flower Stage Singalong: “Tokei no hari ha gyaku ni kakugo o kimeta Alice. Usagi no ana ni tobikonde, nani wo shinji mashouka” (The clock’s going backwards, Alice has made up her mind. She’s jumping in the rabbit’s hole. What should she believe, then?) — From Day Dream Rider

Debuted in 1986, released two million-selling albums (Lovers and Princess Princess), then split in 1996. In January they announced they were reuniting to support Tohoku. Every show since then has sold out in hours. Known to fans as Puri-Puri. The sound: Foot-tapping J-pop girlie rock. At least they were 20 years a go. Playing: Saturday on the Ocean Stage Singalong with: “Diamond dane. Ah ikutsuka no bamen umaku ienai keredo takaramono dayo” (Some scenes are like diamonds. I can’t explain well, but they are my treasures) — From Diamond My First Story

Summer Sonic Osaka Aug 18 & 19, Maishima

Free Stuff!

fancy Summer KS has some . s up for grabs Sonic clear file name w email your To enter the dra ansaiscene.com @k to: giveaways rk the subject by Aug 17. Ma ’. ‘Summer Sonic

• Open: 10:00am / Start 11:00am • Tickets: ¥12,500/day or ¥22,500 for a 2 day pass. • Getting there: Take the subway Chuo-line to Cosmosquare Stn. and board a shuttle bus to the festival ground (¥600 return trip) • Information, access & tickets: www.summersonic.com • Crossfaith: www.crossfaith.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Mirareta © Copyright Catherine Jao-Sevilla / http://catherinejao.deviantart.com

Feature

Japan’s seasonal spooks Come summer, come the ghosts in Japan. People tell spooky stories to give the listeners a much-needed chill down the spine. The protagonists are yokai, Japan’s indigenous demons. Text & illustrations: Catherine Jao-Sevilla

Monsters, bogeymen, ghosts and goblins... in Japan they’re all known as yokai. These supernatural creatures frolic throughout Japanese history and culture. To quote author Zilia Papp, yokai are “the form given to change and the anxiety, uncertainty, fear, and awe associated with it.” Nothing endures like change, and apparently, yokai along with it. Yokai lore has existed since ancient times but they’ve multiplied and morphed in shape and function to reflect the times. The creatures first popped up in the Buddhist iconography that was popular near the end of the Heian period, around the time of the decline of the powerful Taira clan. It was a time of social unrest and uncertainty, the perfect time for creatures of change and anxiety to be born. Yokai took shape in scrolls showing the six realms of hell. While the ghouls weren’t yet in any recognizable form, the scrolls set the tone for how grotesque subjects are dealt with – morbidly but with humour. They helped people face the realities of life in the midst of upheaval. They also pointed art in a new direction. Fine art at the time consisted only of aesthetically pleasing, harmonious themes. The scrolls introduced the other side of life – death, decay and all its gory forms.

Modern Yokai appeared during the Muromachi period. It was a time of great advances in commerce, transportation and art. Rivalries between daimyo brought a certain disorder, which may explain the way yokai were portrayed during this period. Artists drew the creatures not as malevolent spirits, but in humorous, revelry-making forms. In the 16th century Hyakki Yagyo and Tsukumogami Emaki scrolls, the monsters were on parade, but they were laughable and easy to defeat. The Edo period brought the first yokai encylopedia. Sekien Toriyama affixed an image and a story to each creature, making each one identifiable and increasing their fame. This was the first time yokai were presented as individual entities. Toriyama drew mokumokuren as a shoji screen filled with eyes that stare straight at you. In the accompanying text he refers the reader to the game of go, which uses a chess-like board with squares that are referred to as eyes. His himamushi nyudou is an ugly, long-necked man-like creature licking the night oil from a lamp. This was a play on the saying hemamushi, whose katakana could be written to resemble a man’s face in profile. Yokai reached the height of their fame during the late Edo period, perhaps portending the momentous changes about to happen. Their popularity also grew along with that of the practice of Hyaku Monogatari Kaidan Kai, when people gather to tell

Oni Meditating © Copyright Catherine Jao-Sevilla / http://catherinejao.deviantart.com

Into The Night © Copyright Catherine Jao-Sevilla / http://catherinejao.deviantart.com

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

each other one hundred kaidan (ghost stories), blowing out one of a hundred lit candles as each story ends. As the last candle is blown and the room plunges into total darkness, legend says a supernatural phenomenon will occur. Before Katsushika Hokusai drew his famous Thirty-Six Views of Mt. Fuji, he produced a print entitled Shinban Uki-e Bakemono Yashiki Hyaku Monogatari (“One Hundred Ghost Stories in a Haunted House”) which depicts the ghastly finale of a ghost story session. The work inspired other monogatari prints, and the influence can be traced right through to Japan’s modern horror output. Japan’s Edo-period leaders introduced a wide range of reforms to revamp Japanese society, including censorship of woodblock prints. Artists were no longer free to portray some public figures. But they circumvented the rule by using yokai as substitutes for the off-limit subjects. Yokai became not just creatures for entertainment, but symbols used to ridicule political figures. Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s triptych Minamoto-no-Yorimitsu in Bed Haunted by the Earth-Spider Monster and His Demons is one such example. The daimyo Mizuno Tadakuni, chief councilor to the shogun and the force behind the reforms, is caricatured as the Earth-Spi-

der Monster influencing the sleeping shogun. An army of yokai are the functionaries imposing the reforms. The Meiji Restoration was a dark time for yokai. The emperor was again elevated to divine ruler of all spirits - a state-sponsored supernatural entity to disempower the yokai. And scholar Inoue Enryo wielded science to dispel myths about the creatures. Sicknesses relating to yokai, such as Fox Possession, became psychological illnesses. But yokai, stubborn as they are, did not disappear. They were conscripted for war propaganda. Yokai were equated with foreigners as enemies of war, as in Utagawa Yoshiiku’s Kokkei Wanishiki, where yokai stood for the Chinese soldiers in the Sino-Japanese War. By the time of the Pacific War, cartoon demons were representing the Allied Powers. And now? You’ll find yokai in films such as The Great Yokai War, Spirited Away, and Pompoko; once in awhile they pop up in novels such as Haruki Murakami’s Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World; and most prominently in the monsters of the Pokemon universe. Whenever change is about, yokai are too.

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Made in Kansai

Printing down to a T Kansai is home to businesses of all shapes and sizes. Some are international household names such as Nintendo and Mizuno, most are smaller, lesser-known and often familyrun. In a new section, Kansai Scene dons its overalls and reports on the factories, workshops and people behind the products Made in Kansai. Text & photos: KS

Matthias Schneidewind and his wife Miyuki set up their T-shirt printing business, Sweatshop Union, back in 2005. After seven years at their Horie location, they’ve recently invested in new machinery and a bigger premises. Kansai Scene caught up with them at their new workshop in Sakuragawa, Osaka. KS: Why T-shirt printing?

Matthias: Back in the 90s, I travelled to

London a lot for the drum & bass clubs and ended up staying. I was offered a job at a T-shirt printing company called Photofit. It wasn’t really an apprenticeship, they just threw me in the deep end and I was printing T-shirts from day one. After five years I’d learned everything I needed to know and was ready to go it alone. KS: Where did you meet each other? Matthias: I was working in a cafe-bar and Miyuki came in as a customer. I was pretty rude to most of our customers (laughs). Miyuki: I was taking some time out from a hairdressing job in Osaka and was friends with one of the cafe’s owners. KS: Why didn’t you set up a shop in London? Matthias: It was an idea, but simply too hard logistically. We also had two small children by that time, and with their future education and well-being in mind, we decided to head to Miyuki’s hometown, Kobe and make a go of it in Japan. KS: Did you get any support from the local government as a new small business? Matthias: When we started, we had a little start-up cash saved up from our time in London and together with some help

from Miyuki’s parents that was enough to get us going. We only approached the local government for a loan this year, to fund our expansion. Miyuki: At first I approached the shokokaigisho (Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry) for advice. They recommended we apply for a government kokkin loan (offered by the Japan Finance Corporation) but said any loan would be subject to approval of a business plan. Once we had submitted that it was relatively painless process and the super low interest rates offered by the government are great. Just 2 percent or something like that. Matthias: I was surprised by how much we were able to borrow. KS: Who are your customers? Matthias: We take orders from all over Japan, but mainly the Kansai area. I would say 70% of them are Japanese. Bands, schools, sports teams, embassies… everyone and anyone really. KS: Ever had any famous customers? Matthias: Back in London we used to print T-shirts for the illustrator Pete Fowler and Firefox. Here in Japan we have done shirts for some local comedians, and the Tokyo-based artist Alex Gelman. Miyuki: Also the Japanese artist 2Yang – he’s pretty famous. KS: What’s the strangest request you’ve had? Matthias: Neckties. We printed some limited edition ties for a Tokyo boutique. They brought in the semi-finished material and we printed their design for them.

KS: What’s the concept with the interior? Matthias: I had always wanted to have a shipping container-inspired workshop, but the last space wasn’t big enough to do that. I wanted a kind of retro-industrial feel with straight lines and hard materials, but offset by natural wood. I came up with the ideas but Guido from Gearhead Studios made it happen, and added his own touches too, like our T-shirt shaped mailbox. KS: What else do you print on besides T-shirts? Matthias: Tote bags, tank tops, sweatshirts, hoodies, caps, aprons, bandanas, neckties – basically anything we can fit on to the T-shirt press. KS: Are all your T-shirts screen printed? Matthias: Yes, but we can also do digital heat-transfer which is an affordable way to reproduce complicated full color artwork and actually the only way to print on caps. KS: How long does it take from start to finish? Matthias: Our typical turnaround is 10 days, but we can do shorter turnarounds for those in a hurry. Our automatic press means we can turn large jobs around in no time at all. KS: Can any artwork be made into a T-shirt? Matthias: Theoretically, yes. You can print shirts with up to 20 individual colors or use simulated process printing. Basically you can give us any full color artwork, photograph etc. and by using special software we can separate the design into the necessary channels/screens

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

for printing – ending up with a minimum of six colors. The best T-shirt designs are the simple ones though. As for colours, you can print your shirts in any colour imaginable, including fluorescent and metallic inks or even metallic foils. We mix the colors based on Pantone swatches or buy in colors to match. We print exclusively using ecofriendly organic inks, approved by the Australian Soil Association. KS: Can people bring their own shirts for you to print on? Matthias: Absolutely, though we charge a small fee for it. Otherwise, we have a massive range of shirts available to choose from.

KS: You did a special T-shirt fundraiser for Tohoku last year. What happened? Matthias: After watching those terrible scenes on TV, I just wanted to do something to help. Printing T-shirts is what I do best and seemed the best way to help. So I contacted the graphic designers I know and asked them to contribute original designs. We printed the shirts and sold them on our website with all profits going to the Japan Red Cross. Miyuki: We sold just under 500 shirts in total. Most of them were sold to people overseas, with many buying several shirts at once. It was a great response. KS: When you’re not printing T-shirts, where do you escape to in Kansai? Matthias: We usually go back to Kobe so Miyuki’s parents can see the kids. The

harborland area of Kobe is always a good place to be on a day off. Miyuki: Restaurant-wise there are some great places around our old workshop in Horie. Monjiro for fantastic yakiniku, Yo for yakitori and Horie Teppan Bar for tapas-style food.

Company details • Name: Sweatshop Union • Tel: 06 7660 2629 • Fax: 06 6170 6351 • Email: pas@sweatshopunion.jp • Address: 556-0022 Osaka, Naniwaku, Sakuragawa 4-5-19 • Mon-Fri 10am-6pm • Open: Sat 11am-6pm, Sun Closed • Url: www.sweatshopunion.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Language

Festival survival kit Text: Wes Lang

Fuji Rock. Summer Sonic. Rising Sun. Earth Celebration.The list of high-

profile music festivals continues to grow, and along with the hype comes the need to memorize some handy vocabulary. Before you can enjoy the revelry, however, you need to secure a chiketto (ticket). The best advice is to buy in advance (maeuri), because toujitsu hanbai (same day tickets) are not only more expensive, but subject to being urikire (sold out). Your only option then is to seek out a dafuya (ticket scalper). Once entering the venue, double-check for sainyuu kinshi (no re-entry) signs, which will prevent you from leaving and returning without paying the nyuujouryou (entrance fee) again. You’ll probably spy some other prohibitions such as

satsuei kinshi (no photography), rokuga kinshi (no video recording), or rokuon kinshi (no sound recording). Multi-stage festivals can be a bit of a convoluted maze, so try out this phrase to ensure you don’t miss your favorite band: Sigur Ros ha doko de nanji ni kaien desu ka? (where and at what time is Sigur Ros performing?) Note that ensou (performance) is the term usually reserved for classical music performances. When the rock group finishes, feel free to chant with the other fans for an ankooru (encore), making sure you nail the katakana phonics. Finally, keep your fluid intake up to avoid dassui shoujou (dehydration). See you in the mosh pit.

Japanese

Romaji

English

チケット

chiketto

(concert) ticket

前売り

maeuri

tickets sold in advance

当日販売

toujitsu hanbai

tickets sold on the day of the performance

売り切れ

urikire

to be sold out/out of stock

ダフ屋

dafuya

a ticket scalper

入場料

nyuujouryou

admission fee

撮影禁止

satsuei kinshi

No photography allowed

(Band name)は何処で何時に開演ですか?

(Band name) ha doko de nanji ni kaien desu ka?

What time and where is (band name) performing?

演奏

ensou

a performance (of classical music)

アンコール

ankooru

an encore

脱水症状

dassui shoujou

dehydration

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Travel

Layers and layers of London Forget about Jubilees, ignore the Olympics, and don’t go looking for the Crown Jewels. The best thing about England’s metropolis is that it borrows and blends culture better than anywhere else on the planet. Text & photos: Skye Hohmann

I have spent entire days and nights roaming the streets of cities from one dark corner to another in search of that elusive something: the rumour of a party here, a late bar there, an afterhours club that nobody can find. Arriving in London for the first time, I realize immediately this is not one of those cities. It gives the impression of things happening, everywhere, all the time. I arrive after dark to the electric feeling that runs through the big-city night like a current. Riding a doubledecker bus to my rendezvous at Primrose Hill, I try to listen in on nearby conversations, only to find that none is in English. It’s easy now to remember that this was once the centre of an empire.

The next morning is bright, blustery. My friend and I wander into Camden Market from the canal end. In the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, canals were the mainstays of Britain’s transport network. When they were superseded by the railroad and highways, the shipping warehouses that lined the canals fell into neglect. These markets sprung up in the 1970s, filling the disused buildings with craft stalls and food shops which have only multiplied in the decades since. We are suddenly immersed in clouds of curry- and kebab-scented steam. Camden is a bit of everywhere and everything, a hodgepodge of cultures and products. There are clothing stalls in every conceivable fashion; craft shops selling

jewellery and ceramics and artwork; food stalls serving up delicacies and comfort food from all over the globe. Though it is barely yet time for morning tea, we stop at a crepe stand for paper cups of mulled wine. Brick Lane, the old Bangladeshi hub of London’s East End, is lined with curry houses and sari shops. There are deep layers of history here: Ashkenazi Jews, who brought with them beigels and salt beef in the late nineteenth century, moved in on the Irish residents, who had themselves replaced the Huguenots who had settled there in the seventeenth century. The old, red-brick building that houses the Brick Lane Mosque has been a Huguenot chapel, a Methodist church, and a synagogue. It is not even an old part of

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

the city. A new wave of bohemians have joined them, beginning what may be the disquieting process of gentrification. The place has a seedy, gritty atmosphere, the feeling of history colliding with the rush of the present. On Sundays locals sell odd, grubby collections of trinkets and t-shirts at a roadside market. It is lunchtime when we arrive, and we buy hot salt kosher beef sandwiched in freshly baked beigels from the Brick Lane Beigel Bake. It is the neighbourhood’s oldest bakery, a remnant of the area’s pre-Bangladeshi past. The beigels are fresh, hot and cheap. We sit on the footpath, joining other satisfied customers contemplating the burned-out buildings across the street, watching the bustle of urban life. London is a city to be walked through. It is a place built up over time, the foundations of its buildings layered upon ancient ruins, whose traces only the slow pace of walking reveals. Take Borough Market, where tourists mingle with more serious local shoppers below the flint spires of Southwark Cathedral. Though now housed in buildings constructed in 1851, the market’s history stretches back to at least the thirteenth century. It is a fascinating place. Fresh game — fully furred or feathered — hangs outside the butcher’s, while fresh

produce from around the country suggest the seasons in a way that supermarkets fail to. Outside, there are olives from Italy and cheeses from France. In a city once known for tea, we stop at Monmouth Coffee. The café is bright and smells amazing. The coffee is some of the best I have tasted. Revived, we follow the river bank past the reconstructed Globe Theatre, where £5 will get you a standing room ticket for any show, and on to the gallery at the Tate Modern. Housed in the old Bankside Power Station building, it is unmistakable: the massive building and its chimney reach into the sky just shy of the height of Saint Paul’s Cathedral across the river. The building helped generate the power needs of a city hungry for electricity in the postwar years. It now exhibits some of the best contemporary art in the world. Soho is where my friends go out when they go out late. Sleazy and manic, strip clubs still rub up against dance clubs, though wine bars and restaurants have shouldered their way in. This is the London where Dylan Thomas drank, heavily. It is clear that many still do. We walk on. Soho is where my friends dance with boys in smoky bars, but tonight we just drink and walk around, watching the hot-rod motorcycles race past bicycle rickshaws.

We arrive home, late, to a house full of drunken roommates eating pizza, a happy Babel of ex-pats slurring many-accented English. Cultures and histories collide here, in the heart of this night-dark city. It becomes clear to me that England set out to build an empire, but ended up bringing the whole world back home.

Ways & Means Getting there and around • Flights: There are no direct flights from KIX to London, but plenty of airlines operate flights via Tokyo • Around London: Pay a £5 deposit and pick up a pay-as-you-go Oyster card for hassle free travel on the Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services in London

Resources • Visit London: www.visitlondon.com • London Transport: www.tfl.gov.uk

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Travel

Shirahama time

KYOTO

HYOGO

Fancy escaping the big city and the suffocating heat of summer? Kansai’s seaside town of Shirahama is the place you’re looking for.

SHIGA

OSAKA MIE Wakayama

NARA

WAKAYAMA

Shirahama

Text: Helen Marvell • Images: Omar Harran & KS

There’s a sleepy resort town on thesouth coast of Wakayama Prefecture that comes alive each August. At this time of year, Shirahama’s relatively temperate climate draws hordes of tourists seeking a break from the sweltering heat. Couples and families compete for space in the cute cafes, restaurants and on the sandy beach. The town’s name translates as “white beach” and the local officials went to no small trouble to ensure they had some sand worthy of the name. After waves and typhoons washed away Shirahama’s original beach, authorities just bought a new one. They shipped in a beach-worth of white sand from Perth, Australia, and they keep it topped it up with fresh imports. If you’re wondering why they’d source the sand from a whole different hemisphere, the answer’s in the geology. Perth’s sand is a close match for Shirahama’s original beach, and experts say dumping a different type on the seashore would alter the whole ecosystem.

Each night of summer, the beach plays host to firework shows, though you’ll want to be there on August 10th for the biggest display. Shirahama is also famous for scenic views, golf courses, fishing spots and hot springs. The seafront Sakinoyu Onsen is one of the oldest in the country and on the unofficial Three Great Hot Springs of Japan list. For more than a millenium people have enjoyed soaking in the volcanic waters with a view across the sea. Many ryokan and hotels in the area have their own onsen with similar views of the big blue. Shirahama’s other must-see views include Engetsu-tou, a natural arch of rock just off of the coast; Senjou-jiki, a rocky point close to the beach with a great view of the sunset; and the 50-metre-high cliffs of Sandanbeki with caves that legend says were once the secret lairs of the Kumano Pirates, a Heian Period (794-1185) band of plundering scallywags.

There are plenty of hotels in Shirahama, and a campsite, if you want to extend your day trip, but during high season they can be very expensive and are often fully booked well in advance. Instead, book a bed in nearby Wakayama City and explore Wakayama Castle and the famous Kimii-dera Temple.

Ways & Means: Shirahama is easily accessible by train from Shin-Osaka and Wakayama stations, or by bus from Wakayama JR and Shin-Kobe stations. In Shirahama, a regular sightseeing bus stops at all the main attractions. Day passes cost ¥3,100 (¥1,780 for children). For more information, visit: www.nanki-shirahama.com and www.wakayamakanko.com/eng/

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Travel

All points north

HOKKAIDO

Niseko

Sapporo

Escape the sweltering heat by heading north this summer, to Niseko in Hokkaido. Yep, it’s popular as a winter resort, but under the blankets of snow, there’s a cool experience waiting to be enjoyed. Text & photos: Aaron Jamieson

Niseko is world famous for the quantity and quality of snow that blankets it each winter, but it’s still a well kept secret that the region’s true beauty is revealed only after the white melts away. The green season is from June till October. Niseko transforms from a white wilderness into a thriving farming region and a hive of activity. Skis, boards and sleds are traded for bikes, boats and hiking boots while the farmers emerge from hibernation en masse. A drive through the region will take you along rivers, carrying melted snows to the ocean and through an immaculate patchwork of system of manicured farmlands. From the time the first buds push through the snow, Niseko’s fresh produce kicks into gear.

View Plaza is famous locally for offering the freshest produce. A pleasant morning bike ride from the hub of Hirafu, it’s alive with farmers delivering the day’s harvest and day-trippers and locals taking home basket-loads of fresh fruit, vegetables and plants. The river system running though the valley areas of Niseko is fed by a huge volcanic network of mountains, the most prominent of which is Mt Youtei – known as Ezo Fuji for its striking resemblance to Mt Fuji. The mountains release tons of melting snow bringing the rivers to life for fishing and other activities in summer. The river roars to life in spring and carries rafts, boats and kayakers through the Niseko region. Hundreds of people

brave the icy flows of the Shirebetsu for a thrill of a boat ride over rapids and through a pristine natural environment. Bikers are out in force and road cycling meets mountain biking as the mountains unleash their steep dirt trails onto flat valleys of quiet, winding roads. Cycling events are a regular occurrence throughout the region, selected for its epic scenery and lack of traffic. Ski rental shops transform into bike sheds while the local restaurants are sought-out destinations for the touring motorcycle crew. Since the first western-style condos were built in 2003, Niseko has burst into a well-serviced, modern tourism destination with hundreds of new condos and houses filled with summer guests barbecuing and enjoying the temperate

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Hokkaido summer. An evening stroll through Hirafu on a Saturday is sure to make you hungry as the air is filled with the smell of grilled food and the sounds of groups cooking and laughing. Accommodation options range from backpacker to premium condos all year round. Niseko is pegged between Mt Youtei and Mt Annupuri which punctuates the Annupuri range running all the way back to the Sea of Japan. Hiking is in full swing from May with people climbing Mt Youtei to stay in its hut overnight, or riding the gondolas up Mt Annupuri. Others make multi-day treks from Annupuri all the way to the ocean. The views are spectacular everywhere. Whether perched on top of a peak, or driving along the panorama line, you’re sure to encounter breathtaking vistas and plenty of curious wildlife. Encompassing Kutchan, Hanazono, Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri and Niseko town there is no shortage of things to do as each resort area offers activities, restaurants and accommodation. Niseko Village’s Pure is a fun adventure park with balloon and horseback riding available at Annupuri. The Hirafu and Annupuri gondolas run from the beginning of July and well into autumn offering a great way to discover the changing seasons at higher altitude. After the rapid onset of summer,

the transition to autumn is beautiful, as a variety of trees paint colourful hues of orange, red and yellow across the ridges. Fishing rods and golf clubs seem to be a permanent accessory to the locals’ cars with four outstanding 18-hole courses and hundreds of well known (and even more not-so-well-known) fishing spots. Niseko Village, Hanazono and Rusutsu all offer outstanding quality golf courses and accommodation which services all of these is easy to find. After a round of golf with views to Mt Youtei and surrounding mountains, it’s easy to understand why most of the locals start work at midday! Niseko is privileged to be surrounded by the freshest produce in Japan. Dairy farms, cheese factories and breweries are scattered throughout the area and the farms grow everything from edamame, wheat, asparagus, rice, and the famous Kutchan potatoes. Spring water bubbles to the surface after filtering through the bedrock of Mt Youtei. Local restaurants prize the water for its taste and purity. You’ll often see cars parked beside the springs collecting spring water in bottles – most likely a friendly restaurant owner preparing for the evening. As pure water finds its way to the surface, so too does the mineral rich, volcanically heated water that flows into the dozens of onsens in the area. From

Hirafu to Moiwa and all the way around the panorama line there are hidden onsens and well known onsen-style ryokans that cater for both summer and winter trades. Nestled in the mountains, Niseko is only an hour from each ocean. The sea of Japan to the west and Pacific ocean to the east. Hokkaido’s famous seafood is found throughout izakayas and specialty seafood restaurants in the area. When visiting Niseko, Hirafu village is a hub but only one of many beautiful towns making up the area. It’s a large region and worth looking further afield for a day trip to special locations like Lake Toya, Goshiki onsen or Rusutsu.

Ways & Means • Osaka to Sapporo: ANA, JAL, Peach Aviation, Skymark (and from August 21, Jetstar) offer flights direct from either Itami or KIX to Sapporo Shin Chitose airport. • Sapporo to Niseko: take a bus, train or rent a car to Niseko. 2-3 hours. • Info: http://www.nisekotourism.com

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Aug 2–8

Art

Forward Motion

Pick

KYOTO 3rd Floor Project Room

Kyoto’s new art space 3rd Floor Project Room plays host to an exhibition by beatmaker Ash Ryan, animator Rowan O’Brien and photographer Masahiro Nakata. O’Brien’s eclectic and choppy stopmotion animation style emphasizes the driving pulse of the music. Nakata, who has shown installations in Japan and Germany, is heading the physical aesthetic for Forward Motion, which is based on photographs. The beats, animation and photographs all unite to form a cohesive experience. Aug 2–8 • Audio/Visual Installation • Open: 1pm– 7:30 pm (1pm–4pm on Aug 8th) • Admission: Free • Access: Karasuma Oike Stn • http://3-gai.com/

Art Listings Kyoto KATAGAMI Style Paper Stencils and Japonisme The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto Until Aug 19 Paper Stencils

Open: 9:30am–5pm (until 8pm every Friday and August 16) • Admission: ¥1,400, ¥1,000 University students, ¥500 students • Access: Keage Stn • www.momak.go.jp

Anywhere from Here Kyoto Art Center Until Sep 9 Sculpture

Open: 10am–8pm • Admission: Free • Access: Karasuma Stn • www.kac.or.jp

Atsushi Uemura Exhibition

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art Until Aug 19 Paintings

Open: 9am–5pm, closed on Mon Admission: ¥1,000, ¥800 university/ high school students, ¥500 junior high/elementary school students • Access: Sanjo Stn • www.city.kyoto.jp/bunshi/kmma/en

Colors of KCUA 2012 Kyoto City University of Arts Art Gallery Aug 11–19 Various Media

Open: 11am–7pm, closed on Mon • Admission: Free • Access: Karasuma Oike Stn • www.kcua.ac.jp/gallery/ exhibition/2522.html

Osaka Real Japanesque: The Unique World of Japanese Contemporary Art The National Museum of Art, Osaka

Until Sep 30 Various Media

Open: 10am–5pm (until 7pm on Friday), closed on Mon, open on Sep 17th and closed on Sep 18th • Admission: ¥850, ¥450 Students • Access: Watanabebashi Stn • www.nmao.go.jp/exhibition

ddd gallery Until Sep 5 Graphic Design

Open: 11am–7pm (until 6pm on Sat), closed on Sun, Mon, Hol • Admission: Free • Access: Yotsubashi Stn • http://www.dnp.co.jp/gallery/ddd/

Kodo Tanaka: To the Drifting Forest

suzukie: The Story of Inside and Outside

Bloom Gallery Aug 1–19 Photography

iTohen Aug 8–19 Illustration

Open: 12–7pm • Admission: Free • Access: Juso Stn • www.bloomgallery103.com

Sky & Sea Nadar Osaka Aug 28–Sep 2 Photography

Open: 11am–7pm • Admission: Free Access: Shinsaibashi Stn • http://nadar.jp/osaka

Fumio Tachibana Exhibition

Open: 12–7pm (until 6pm on Aug 19th) , closed on Mon, Tue • Admission: Free • Access: Nakazakicho Stn • www.skky.info/itohen/gallery

Art Shower 2012 CASO Aug 28–Sep 16: Open Residency Sep18–30: Exhibition Various Media

Open: 1–9pm (Aug 28–Sep 16), 11am–7pm (until 3pm on Sep 30), closed on Mon • Admission: Free

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

to Aug 12

Aug 1–18

Viewing Kirico

Kazuma Obara: Beyond Fukushima

OSAKA Port Gallery T

KYOTO Gallery Little House

An exhibition documenting the life of Kirico’s grandmother, who decided to become a maiko and a mistress. “My life is rather dull now, but I don’t really think much about it. There’s nothing really to judge,” the grandmother says, after celebrating her 85th birthday. The photographer has layered her own life with her grandmother’s. This exhibition will be a misedashi for Kirico’s grandmother; a ritual for the maiko to debut into the geisha quarters.

From July 2011 until February 2012, photographer Kazuma Obara documented the reality of working life in Fukushima. The exhibition features photographs and interviews with 27 workers at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, along with documentation of their daily lives at the plant. The interviews reveal the workers’ reality and their reasons for working under such harsh conditions. There will be an opening party on Aug 4th at 6pm, with the artist present, and a series of talks from the interviewees are scheduled throughout the exhibition period. Approximately 60 works will be on display.

Aug 1–18 • Photography • Open: 12–7pm (until 5pm on Sat), closed on Sun, Mon, Tue • Admission: Free • Access: Higobashi Stn • http://www.portgalleryt.com/

• Access: Osakakou Stn • www.cwo.zaq.ne.jp/caso/eng/top

Kansai One-Piece Club: Might be the first time exhibition? Vol.2 Tezukayama Gallery Aug 25–31 Various Media

Open: 11am–7pm, closed on Sun • Admission: Free • Access: Yotsubashi Stn • www.tezukayama-g.com

Hyogo HAL: Flesh Love Tanto Tempo Aug 4–Sep 2 Photography

Open: 12–6pm, closed on Mon, Tue, holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Minato Motomachi Stn • http://tantotempo.jp/newsite/en

Yu Kanei + Mayo Koide: TTYTT, -to tell you the truth-, Kobe Art Village Center 1F/KAVC Gallery, 1room Aug 25–Sep 17 Various Media Open: 12–7pm • Admission: Free Access: Shinkaichi Stn • http://kavc.or.jp

Portrait of Celebrity: The Vision of Kevin Westenberg Kobe Fashion Museum Until Oct 2 Photography

Open: 10am–6pm, closed on Wed • Admission: ¥500, ¥250 Students • Access: Island Center Stn • www.fashionmuseum.or.jp

The Exhibition of Paddington Bear Itami City Museum of Art Until Sep 2

Until August 12 • Photography • Open: 11am–7pm • Admission: ¥500 • http://motoaki.jimdo.com/

Illustration

Open: 10am–6pm, closed on Mon • Admission: ¥800, ¥450 university and high school students, ¥150 middle/elementary school students • Access: JR/Hankyu Itami Stn • www.artmuseum-itami.jp

Shiga SHIZENGAKU for the Coming Aesthetics The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga Exhibition Associate with Seian University of Art and Design Aug 11–Sep 23 Various Media

Open: 9:30am–5pm, closed on Mon (except 13, 20, 27), open on Sep 17 and closed on Sep 18 • Admission: ¥850, ¥600 university/ high school students, ¥400 junior high/elementary school students • Access: Bunka Zone Mae bus stop from JR Seta stn • www.shiga-kinbi.jp/?p=16170

M.C. Escher: Modification, Infinity and Labyrinth Sagawa Art Museum Until Sep 2 Prints

Open: 9:30–5pm, closed Mon • Admission: ¥1,000, Students ¥600 • Access: Sagawa Art Museum bus stop from Katata Stn • www.sagawa-artmuseum.or.jp

Nara Makoto Morimura: Daily Hope Gallery OUT of PLACE Until Aug 12 Collage

Open: 12–7pm, closed on Mon, Tue, Wed • Admission: Free • Access: JR Nara Stn • www.outofplace.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Events

Aug 9

Biwako Fireworks Festival 2012 Aug 8 Lake Biwa, Otsu, Shiga

Photo: Courtesy Biwako Visitors Bureau

This is one of the most loved and popular firework exhibitions in Japan and is held annually in early August. Millions of spectators will gaze at the sky and shout for joy in excitement. Since this event first took place, it has grown in scale and grade of pyrotechnics. Spectacular flowers of light will be beautifully reflected on the glassy surface of lake Biwa with natural scenery. Nothing blocks the spectators’ view as it is an offshore fireworks exhibition. This year 10,000 explosions will be fired off. The top pyrotechnicians will show off their skills by creating artworks of sparks – one will be a lotus, another will be scarlet-tinged maple leaves and many other flowers. All these displays depict the flowers surrounding lake Biwa. Time: 7:30pm–8:30pm (postponed to Aug 10th if there’s stormy weather) • Admission: free • Access: JR Biwako line Otsu stn, 15min walk/Keihan Railway Hamaotsu stn, 5min walk • Tel: 077511-1530 • www.biwako-visitors.jp/hanabi

Event Listings Yuredaiko Aug 4

This viaduct is the longest suspension bridge made of steel wire in Japan and the thrill of crossing it attracts many tourists. There will be a performance of Japanese drums on the bridge. Do not miss the thrilling performance by a drum troupe on the bridge as it swings in the breeze. There is no bus after the event. Staying overnight at the hot-spring resort would be an ideal. Time: 4pm – 9:30pm • Admission: free • Where: Tanise no Tsurihashi Bridge • Access: JR Wakayama line Gojo stn bus (110min) to Uenoji • Tel: 0746-63-0200

Himawari (Sunflower) 150,000 Event, Kyoto Aug 4 – 12

150,000 sunflowers will bloom gloriously at a 4.6 hectare field. A huge walking maze is full of sunflowers. Lots of stalls will be

selling local produce. Volleyball games will take place at a rice paddy beside the sunflower field on the 5th Aug. Time: 9am – 5pm • Admission: ¥200 • Where: Nodagawa Work Pal • Access: Kitakinki Tango Railway Nodagawa stn 10 min by taxi • Tel: 0772-46-3269

Nara Fantasia 2012, Nara Aug 16 – 21

Come and watch the high-definition images depicting a travel around the Silk Road in ancient times. Fantastic images will be projected on to the façade of the Nara National Museum. Time: 7:30pm – 9pm • Admission: free • Where: Nara National Museum • Access: Kintetsu Railway Nara stn; 5min walk • Tel: 0742-27-8677

Minami Mido Bon Odori, Osaka Aug 27 & 28

Everybody will be welcome to join in this traditional Japanese dance event. About 20 varieties of folk dances will be preformed. Also the first 1,000 visitors will get wonderful presents.

Time: 6:15pm – 9:30pm •Admission: free • Where: Minami Mido Temple • Access: Subway Chuo line Hommachi stn exit 13 • Tel: 066251-5820

Canyon Swimming, Shiga Until Sep 30

Powerzone is providing an exciting water sport this summer. Canyon swimming involves a guided tour with a friendly expert who will navigate you through steep river canyons. Participants will enjoy a mountain river using a variety of techniques; swimming, jumping and sliding. Booking is essential. Admission includes outfit rental, lunch and help from the guide.

Time: 10am • Admission: ¥10,000 • Where: Powerzone River Base Shiga

• Access: Omi Railway Yokaichi stn bus to Eigenji Shako • Tel: 052-7887575 • Email: info@powerzone.co.jp • www.powerzone.co.jp/water

Manatsu no Yuki Matsuri, Hyogo Jul 21–Sep 2

A snow festival, in the Summer? Children will love this 20x20m play lot filled with artificial snow. A special snow area for dogs will be provided from Aug 13th to 15th and Saturdays and Sundays in August. Time: 11:30am–4pm (cancelled if it’s raining) • Admission: ¥600 adults, concessions, ¥100 dogs • Where: Rokkosan Country House • Access: Rokko Cable Sanjo stn bus to Rokkosan Country House • Tel: 078-891-0366

Shika Senbei Tobashi Competition, Nara Aug 4, 5, 11 and 12

Make a record-breaking throw in this unique competition. Shika

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Aug 15–Sep 4

Photo: Courtesy Kyoto-design.jp

Aug 7–10

Gojozaka Toki Matsuri

Horror Manga Exhibition, Ume Kowa

Aug 7–10 Between Higashi-Oji and Gojo Ohashi Bridge on Gojo-Dori Street, Kyoto

Aug 15–Sep 4 Umeda Loft, Osaka

Pick up bargains at the Gojozaka Toki Matsuri, where 500,000 people visit to purchase Japanese crockery. Make a good buy from a considerable variety of potteries and ceramics. There have been many Kiyomizu-ware shops in the Gojozaka since olden times. With many traditional spots, the streets still offer an atmosphere of bygone days. On these days 500 crockery shops will line the street including traditional shops and stalls owned by young artists. Many of the items will be sold about half off the market price. Time: 9am–11pm • Admission: free • Access: Keihan Railway Kiyomizu-gojo stn/JR Kyoto stn bus to Gjozaka • Tel: 075-541-1192

senbei are crackers for deer, round and thin in shape, like a Frisbee. See how far you can throw one. Deer will be waiting to help clear up!

Nara Tokae, Nara

The 7th Kisyu Yosakoi Matsuri, Wakayama

Time: 7pm–9:45pm • Admission: free • Access: JR/Kintetsu Nara stn bus to Daibutsuden Kasugataishamae • Tel: 0742-21-7515 • www. toukae.jp

Time 2pm–6pm • Admission: ¥300 to participate in the event • Where: Mt. Wakakusayama • Access: JR/ Kintetsu Railway Nara stn bus to Daibutsuden Kasugataisha-mae, 20min walk • Tel: 0742-23-5300

Aug 4 & 5

Recognised as a cultural tradition of Wakayama, this dance event attracts 200,000 visitors every year. Enjoy powerful dances performed by people in eccentric costumes. Lots of people – 75 teams will perform their original dances at venues around Wakayama Castle. Time: to be announced • Admission: free • Where: Wakayama Castle and surroundings • Access: JR Wakayama stn/Nankai Railway Wakayama-shi stn bus to Koen-mae • Tel: 073-426-4424

Aug 5–14

Why don’t you share a fantastic candlelit evening with family and friends? Over 20,000 candles will be lit to wish for world peace in the Nara Park. A splendid array of flames create a peaceful and evocative atmosphere in these evenings.

Osaka Amanokawa Densetsu – Legend of the Milky Way Aug 7

Come and join this environmentally-friendly illumination event. Thousands of tiny solar powered lights will float down the river beside Osaka Castle. These LED bulbs represent stars of the Milky Way. You can buy lights

Known as the Stephen King of Japan, Kazuo Umezu is a creator of scary comics. Umeda Loft presents this interactive exhibition of Kazuo Umezu’s horror world. As he’s been published in English, his spine-chilling horror manga has many fans both at home and abroad. In this event, you will learn more aspects of Umezu’s genius as a leading manga comic author. This exhibition will have several parts. Enjoy a frightening experience in a haunted-house-like area where you can explore with a pocket light in your hand! Appreciate his beautifully grotesque artworks. Interesting and rare goods from Umezu’s works will be available to purchase. There will also be an autograph session with Umezu on Aug 25th. Time: 10:30am–9pm (10:30am–5pm Sep 4) • Admission: ¥300 • Access: Hankyu Railway Umeda stn Chayamachi exit, 5min walk Tel: 06-6359-0111 • E-mail: hansoku-umeda@loft.co.jp

from the Aqua-Liner Osakajo Pier and add to the shining river. Time: 7pm–9pm • Admission: free to observe (¥1,000 to participate) • Where: between the Shin Shigino-bashi Bridge and the Osakajo-shinbashi Bridge on the Dai Ni Neyagawa River • Access: JR Loop line Osakajo-koen stn • Tel: 06-6942-2006 • www.osakaamanogawa.com

Hozenji Yokocho Matsuri, Osaka Aug 10 & 11

A celebration of traditional Osaka culture. Enjoy rakugo comic story telling, makind mochi cake, food stalls from famous restaurants and many more. Bunraku, traditional Japanese puppet theatre is a mustsee.

Time: 2pm • Admission: free • Where: Hozenji temple • Access: Subway Midosuji/Sennichimae line/ Kintetsu Railway Namba stn, 5min walk • Tel: 06-6211-6665

Jazz Picnic in Inagawa – Tropical Night, Osaka Aug 11

All jazz music lovers, get yourselves down to Inagawa Park. This is a showcase for high-class jazz musicians. Enjoy cool jazz on a lawn while drinking and eating. Time: 5pm (held at the Azalea Hall in case of stormy weather) • Admission: ¥3,000 (¥3,500 on door) family ticket, max 2 adults ¥5,000 (¥6,000 on the door) • Where: Inagawa Undo-koen Park • Access: Hankyu Railway Ikeda, 15min walk • Tel: 072-761-8811 • Email: info@ azaleanet.or.jp

Antique Kimono Exhibition, Kyoto Aug 18–31

A marvellous collection of antique kimonos will be displayed at the Tondaya that is a traditional Japanese architectural house. This is a great opportunity to observe artistically important kimonos that

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Pick

Dekansho Matsuri Aug 15 & 16 The Sannomaru Square in Sasayama Castle, Hyogo

Until Aug 26

You do not come to the Dekansho Matsuri just to observe, because every spectator is a participant. This is one of the largest Bon Odori dances, which have been held to welcome back people’s ancestors’ spirits during the bon-festival since olden days. Nowaday the Dekansho Matsuri draws 100,000 visitors every year as a major summer attraction. Join the dance where people form a circle around a high platform and perform steps to Dekansho music. Watch spectacular fireworks blooming in the night sky. Why don’t you browse the huge number of stalls selling interesting things? There will be many other exciting events on these days.

Piece of Peace

Time: Noon–10 pm • Admission: free • Access: JR Fukuchiyama line Sasayamaguchi stn bus to Sasayama Honmachi • Tel: 079552-0758 • Email: info@dekansho.com

Time: 11am–8pm • Admission: ¥300 adults, concessions • Where: Dojima River Forum • Access: Keihan Railway Nakanoshima stn/ JR Tozai line Shin Fukushima stn, 5min walk • Tel: 06-6341-0115

World Heritage Exhibit Built With Lego® Until Aug 26

Angkor Wat, the Taj Mahal, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine — witness first hand these magnificent models of World Heritage sites all built entirely out of Lego blocks. Touring Osaka for the second time, this exhibition has already attracted some 1,000,000 people since it first opened in 2003.

Event Listings cont. rarely appear in public. Some of them will also be sold at the venue.

Time: 9am–5pm • Admission: ¥1,050 • Where: Tondaya • Access: JR Kyoto stn bus to Ichijo-modoribashi •Tel: 075-432-6701 • Email: info@ tondaya.co.jp

The National Championship of Goldfish Scooping, Nara Aug 19

Come and watch the exquisite skill of goldfish scooping. Every year nearly 2,000 entrants take part in hotly contested games here. Also you can enjoy browsing many stalls selling goldfish-themed goods. It’s too late to register for the scooping competition, but you can enjoy the show. Time: 8:30am • Admission: free • Where: Kingyo Square • Access: Kintetsu Raiway Koriyama stn bus to Shiei Ground-mae • Tel: 074353-1151

Antique Grand Fair in Kyoto Aug 31–Sep 2

The biggest antique market in west Japan. More than 150,000 items from 250 independent on sale. An extensive range of antiques can be found, such as potteries, kakemono and old cameras. There’s not only Japanese period pieces but also artefacts from Europe and Asia too. Even if you have no intention of buying antiques, it will be very interesting to just look around.

Time: 10am–5pm (10am–4pm on Sep 2) • Admission: free • Where: Kyoto Pulse Plaza • Access: Subway Karasuma line Takeda stn, bus to Pulse Plaza-mae • Tel: 0771-26-3603

Midosuji Talkin’ About – The Art Scene in Osaka Aug 24

Networking and information exchange event. This month designer and editor of FLAG

magazine, Duncan Brotherton will talk about the Art Scene in Osaka. Time: 7pm • Admission: free • Where: Osaka Gas Building, Osaka • Access: Subway Midosuji line Yodoyabashi stn exit 13 • Tel: 066205-4545 (Osaka Gas Co Ltd/Mr Yamanoh) • Email: singles@do.ai

Hiejokyo Tenpyo Sai Summer, Nara Aug 24–26

Gaining public favour, the Hiejokyo Tenpyo Sai Summer will take place again this year. See a gorgeous parade of ancient court dignitaries and exciting live performances. Enjoy beautiful illuminations decorating the ancient palace site.

Time: 6pm •Admission: free • Where: Heijokyo Palace Site • Access: Kintetsu Railway Yamatosaidaiji stin, 15min walk • Tel: 0742-27-8973 • www.heijo-nigiwai.jp

Human Documentary Film Festival, Osaka

Aug 24–26

This three-day event is a showcase of 10 documentaries on humanism by up-and-coming directors. Films are in Japanese only with no English subtitles.

Time: 10am • Admission: ¥2,000 for one day (¥2,500 on door), ¥5,000 for three days • Where: Abeno-ku Citizen’s Centre • Access: Subway Tanimachi line Abeno stn exit 6 • Tel: 080-6180-1542 • Email: info@hdff.jp

Rafting Competition in Kitayama Village, Wakayama Aug 26

This annual rafting competition sees competitors battle against the clock to navigate the Kitayama river, renowned as one of the best spots for white water sports in Japan. Time: 10am–3pm • Admission: free Where: Okutoro Park • Access: JR Kumanoshi stn bus to Okutoro-koen • Tel: 0735-49-2119

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Festivals

Daimonji Gozan Okuribi Aug 16 Kyoto city, various locations

Time: 8pm–8:30pm • Admission: free • Tel: 075-343-0548

Photo: Courtesy Kyoto-design.jp

Mark the date of this spectacular bonfire night on your calendar! Giant bonfires burn on the five mountains surrounding Kyoto for just one night every year. It is a religious belief that ancestors’ spirits visit their families in this world during Obon festival – the festival of the dead. This Daimonji Okuribi bonfire is held at the end of Obon to see off the souls of the dead heading back to the other world. On this evening, five bonfires are lit; three in the shape of Japanese kanji, one is the shape of a ship and the other is in the shape of a shrine gate. Witness this centuries-old Japanese tradition. Stand between Marutamachi Bridge and Misono Bridge on the Kamo River, or between Saiin and Kinkauji-michi on Nishioji street for the best view of the bonfires.

Festival Listings Oni Mai, Wakayama Aug 16

performed by Buddhist monks on August 24th.

A red-haired demon parades along the street to a shrine followed by drums and flutes. After the dedication of a ritual dance, the demon will chase children around comically behaving in a threatening manner.

Gangarabi Matsuri, Osaka

Time: 5pm Admission: free • Where: Shide Itsukusima-jinja • Access: Nankai Railway Koyashita stn, 3min walk • Tel: 0736-54-4365

Aug 21 Hiyoshi-jinja, Shiga

Off the beaten path is the Ohana Odori dance, which is an annual historic ceremony known as a rainmaking dance. Swaying plumes of flowers from side to side, men in white kinomo slowly dance in a circle. Along with drums and singing, colourfully dressed children join the dance, shaking bamboo maracas. The drums represent thunder and bamboo-maracas make the sound of rain. The Ohana Odori expresses the feeling of delight and gratitude for blessed rain. Strangely, the rain has fallen on this day every year, according to local people. Time: 7pm–9pm • Admission: free • Access: JR Biwako line Kawase stn bus to Gakko-mae • Tel: 0749-38-5069 • Fax: 074938-5072

Aug 24

Aug 23 & 24

Giant flaming torches – each of them 4m high and weighing 100kg – are paraded around the neighbourhood during this vigorous festival. This festival has been offered to the deity Mt. Atagoyama since the 17th century.

Setting up interesting dioramas around the neighbourhood, this festival attracts a large number of visitors every year. The festival takes place to worship one of Buddhist gods, Jizo, who is a guardian deity of children.

Atago Hi Matsuri, Hyogo

Samegai Jizo Matsuri Festival, Shiga

Ohana Odori Dance

Time: 5pm–9pm • Admission: free • Where: Gangouji Temple •Access: Kintetsu Railway Nara stn, 12min walk • Tel: 0742-231377

Time: 6pm • Admission: free • Where: Samegai-juku Town • Access: JR Tokaido Honsen line Samegai stn, 5min walk •Tel: 0749-58-2227

Jizo-E, Nara Aug 23 & 24

Thousands of flickering flames will illuminate stone Buddhist images in the precincts. People will pray for children’s healthy growth and global peace. There will be fun activities for children on August 23rd, and live music

Time: 7:30pm–10pm • Admission: free • Where: around Ikeda City Hall • Access: Hankyu Railway Ikeda stn • Tel: 072-754-6244

Aug 26

This festival was created to pray for a perfect state of health in the Edo period. Participants perform acrobatic rituals – holding a piece of rope fixed with a flaming bundle of straw at one end, and swinging the rope around. Spectacular fire rings will appear at the precincts of the shrine. Time: 5pm–8pm • Admission: free • Where: Ifukube-jinja • Access: JR Sanin Honsen line Toyooka stn bus to Izushi • Tel: 0796-52-4806

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Flea Market Osaka Bentencho ORC200 Flea Market Aug 5 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: free • Where: ORC Hiroba, ORC200, Osaka • Access: JR Loop Line/Chuo Line Bentencho station • Tel: 06-6577-1242 • http://orc200. com/event/latin.html

Tenma Ichiba Waiwai Flea Market Aug 5 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Pulala Tenma North Side, Osaka • Access: JR Loop Line Tenma station, Subway Sakai-suji Line Ougi-machi station • Tel: 080-3782-4747 • http://www5. hp-ez.com/hp/puraratenma

Cosmo Tower Charity Flea Market Aug 18 (Sat) & 19 (Sun)

• Time: 11am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Cosmo Tower Fespa 1F, Osaka • Access: Newtram Nanko Port Town Line Trade Center Mae station • http://swapmeet.ne.jp/info/ cosmotower

Lohas Festa in Banpaku Park

Banpaku Omatsuri Hiroba Garage Sale Aug 26 (Sun)

• Time: 9:30am–4:30pm • Admission: ¥350 • Where: Banpaku Kinen Park, Osaka • Access: Osaka Monorail Banpaku Kinen Park station • Tel: 06-6362-6322 • www.garagesale. co.jp/kaijyou/banpaku_omatsuri. html

Minatomachi River Place Flea Market Aug 26 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Where: Minatomachi River Place Plaza, Osaka • Access: Subway Yotsubashi Line or Kintetsu Line Namba station • Tel: 06-6578-3333

Kyoto Higashiyama Ryouzen Kannon Ichi Aug 3 (Fri)

• Time: 9:30am–5pm • Admission: free • Where: Ryouzen Kannon, Kyoto • Access: JR Kyoto station Bus 206 to Higashiyama Yasui 5min walk, Hankyu Kawaramachi station Bus 207 to Higashiyama Yasui 5 min walk • www.kannonichi.jp

Komachi Tezukuri Ichi

Aug 18 (Sat) & 19 (Sun)

Aug 5 (Sun)

• Time: 12am–7pm • Admission: ¥300 • Where: Banpaku Kinen Park Higashi no Hiroba, Osaka • Access: Osaka Monorail Banpaku Kinen Park station • Tel: 06-6338-0640 • www.lohasfesta.jp

• Time: 8:30am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Zuishin-in, Kyoto • Access: Subway Tozai Line Ono station • Tel: 075-315-2671 • http:// ichi-nichi-komachi.com

Minoo Kayano Hiroba Recycle Fair Aug 19 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Where: Minoo Visora Kayano Square, Osaka • Access: Kita Osaka Kyuko Senri-chuo station Hankyu Bus Kayano Elementary School • http://www.garagesale.co.jp/ kaijyou/minoo.html

Swapmeet in Hanahaku Park Aug 19 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: ¥300 • Where: Hanahaku Kinen Park Tsurumi-ryokuchi, Osaka • Access: Nagahori Tsurumiryokuchi Line Tsurumiryokuchi station • http://swapmeet.ne.jp/info/ hanahaku/

Inaba-dou Tezukuri Ichi Aug 8 (Wed)

• Time: 9am–3pm • Admission: free • Where: Inaba-dou, Kyoto • Access: Subway Karasuma Line Gojo station 5min walk, Hankyu Karasuma station 5min walk

Monozukuri Art Town Aug 12 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Kyoto City Hall Square, Kyoto • Access: Subway Tozai Line Kyoto shiyakusho-mae • http://monocro.info/arttown

Kamigamo Tezukuri Ichi Aug 26 (Sun)

• Time: 9am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Kamigamo jinja, Kyoto • Access: JR Kyoto station Bus 4 to Kamigamo jinja, Hankyu Kawaramachi station Bus 4 or 46 to Kamigamo jinja

• Tel: 075-864-6513 • http:// kamigamo-tedukuriichi.com

• Tel: 078-597-6930 • http:// kobecraft.jp/gakuentoshi.html

Toyokuni san no Omoshiro Ichi

Kobe Meriken Park Square Recycle Market

Aug 28 (Tue)

Aug 11 (Sat), 12 (Sun), 18 (Sat), 19 (Sun), 26 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–3pm • Admission: free • Where: Toyokuni jinja, Kyoto • Access: Keihan Line shichijo station 10 min walk, JR Kyoto station Bus 206 or 208 to Sanjusangendo • http://www. omosiro1.com

Hyogo

• Time: 11am–5pm • Admission: free • Where: Kobe Meriken Park • Access: JR/Hanshin Motomachi station 10min walk • Tel:078-2656080 • www.koberm.com

Mt. Maya Rucksack Market Aug 18 (Sat)

Sunshine Wharf Kobe Aug 1 (Wed) & 18 (Sat)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Sunshine Wharf Kobe, Sunshine Garden • Access: Hanshin Line Aoki station 5min walk • Tel: 06-6281-0770 • http://www.b-i-a.jp/pages/go/ go_03.html

• Time: 11am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Mayasan Kikuseidai, Hyogo • Access: Hankyu Rokko station/JR Rokkodo station bus to Maya cable shita, take Maya Cable Railway to Maya View Line Hoshinoeki station • Tel: 078-3333330 • www.mayasan.jp/rucksack

Nara

Takarazuka Garden Market (Crafts market)

Miwa no Ebisu Ichi

Aug 11 (Sat) & 25 (Sat)

Aug 1 (Wed)

• Time: 10:30am–4:30pm • Admission: free • Where: Takarazuka Garden Fields • Access: JR/Hankyu Takarazuka Line Takarazuka station 8min walk • 06-6578-3333 • www.freemarketgo.com/kaijou_garden.htm

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Ebisu shrine, Miwa, Nara • Access: JR Sakurai Line Miwa station • Tel: 0744-49-3818

Ama-do Shimin Market (Swapmeet)

• Time: 4pm–8:30pm • Admission: free • Where: JR Nara station, Nara • Access: JR Nara station, Kintetsu Line Nara station, 15min walk • Tel: 070-6505-2536 • http:// organic710.exblog.jp/

Aug 4 (Sun) & 18 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: ama-do event floor, Hyogo • Access: Hanshin Line Amagasaki Center Pool Mae station 5min walk • Tel: 06-6312-2220 • http:// swapmeet.ne.jp/info/ama-do/

Amagasaki Chuo Park Recycle Fair Aug 5 (Sun)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: Amagasaki Chuo Park, Osaka • Access: Hanshin Line Amagasaki station • www. garagesale.co.jp/kaijyou/amagasaki. html • Tel: 06-6362-6322

Kobe Art & Craft Market in Nishi Kobe Gakuentoshi Aug 16 (Thu)–Aug 18 (Sat)

• Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: free • Where: Gakuentoshi Unibah Dome • Access: Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line Gakuen-Toshi station

Organic Market Aug 19 (Sun)

Shiga Kusatsu Art Aug 18 (Sat)

• Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: free • Where: JR Kusatsu station, Shiga • Access: JR Kusatsu station east exit • Tel: 077-564-5201 • www. kusatsufan.jp/art

Wakayama Koyasan Kraft Camp Aug 4 (Sat) & Aug 5 (Sun)

• Time: 11am–7pm (Aug 4), 9am–4pm (Aug 4), • Admission: free • Where: Koyasan Shinrin Park, Wakayama • Access: Nankai Koyasan station, Bus Keisatsumae, 20min walk • Tel: 073-656-3000

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Classical music

Classical musings

Aug 5

Text: Michael Vezzuto

With the approach of Obon festival in Japan, people generally turn their attention toward family and hometown friends. Concert halls pick up on this theme by filling out their calendars with numerous school orchestra and brass band concerts as well as concerts aimed at children at Kyoto Concert Hall. But it also means many concert halls take an Obon holiday too. At the very beginning of the month, let me guide you to a fantastic Bach organ recital, the first in a new series, at Izumi Hall on August 3rd. German organist and choral conductor Gerhard Weinberger will play an assortment of works from Bach’s enormous catalog. Does it matter which works are on the program? It’s organ music by Bach! That’s enough for me, at least. The Osaka Philharmonic Orchestra and conductor Kenichiro Kobayashi leave us with a concert of Three Great Symphonies on August 5th before beginning their summer vacation (at least from The Symphony Hall). The three great symphonies in question are all crowd pleasers: Beethoven’s 5th Symphony (trust me, you know it), Dvořák’s 9th Symphony (subtitled From the New World), and Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony, listed in the program note as Symphony No. 7 but also popularly known as Symphony No. 8 (the reasons for this confusion are so complicated that I’m tempted to put the entire blame on music scholars for the demise in classical music’s popularity over the last 50 years). It’s a highly caffeinated program, and The Symphony Hall has graciously programmed it to begin early in the evening. The concert oasis in the August Obon desert comes in the form of a French-themed program performed by the Kyoto Symphony Orchestra on August 12th. The orchestra begins with Gershwin’s bluesy An American in Paris, then goes on to Poulenc’s jazzy Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra, for which the SEO KATO piano duo supply the solo parts. The concert

If you are in the Kyobashi area in Osaka on Tuesday, August 21st, you might want to drop by Izumi Hall to hear volume 81 of their lunchtime concert series. This 11:30am concert features mezzo-soprano Michiko Hayashi and her piano accompanist Tadayuki Kawahara in a program of French songs. Included on the program along with the ever-present Habanera from Bizet’s opera Carmen are rarely performed songs by Leo Delibes, Pauline Viardot and Reynaldo Hahn (well, rarely heard in Kansai, anyway). To my mind, however, the real draw here is a chance to hear songs by Japanese composers Toru Takemitsu and Kunihiko Hashimoto – also on the program – performed live. So, there’s all of this great music in August, and on top of that, the concert halls are air-conditioned! What more could anyone ask?

Aug 3

Aug 5

Aug 12

Aug 21

Bach Organ Works Series Vol. 1: Gerhard Weinberger

Three Great Symphonies, Osaka Philharmonic Orchestra, Kenichiro Kobayashi (conductor)

Yumiko Tanimura (soprano), Kuni SEO and Shinichiro KATO Piano Duo, Kyoto Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, Michiyoshi Inoue (conductor)

Izumi Hall Lunch Time Concert: Michiko Hayashi (mezzosoprano), Tadayuki Kawahara (piano)

Izumi Hall, 7pm

Admission: ¥4,000 (students ¥2,000) • Tel: 06-6944-1188 • Access: Keihan Kyobashi Station, JR loop line Osakajo-Koen station, subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokichi line Osaka Business Park station exit 1 www.izumihall.co.jp/english/ concerts.html

The Symphony Hall (Osaka), 5pm

Admission: ¥6,000–¥3,000 • Tel: 06-6656-4890 • Access: JR loop line Fukushima Station or Oyodo-minami-1-chome bus stop http://asahi.co.jp/symphony/event

©Takashi Ijima

Aug 3

Aug 21

ends with a more somber Poulenc work; the Stabat Mater, with

Yumiko Tanimura singing the solo soprano part. Michiyoshi Inoue performs conducting duties at this afternoon concert.

Kyoto Concert Hall, 2:30pm

Admission: S=¥4,500, A=¥4,000, B=¥3,500, P=¥2,000 (seats behind the stage) • Tel: 075-711-3231 • Access: Kitayama subway station (on the Karasuma line), three minute walk from exit 1 www.kyoto-symphony.jp/concert

Izumi Hall, 11:30am

Admission: ¥2,000 • Tel: 06-6944-1188 • Access: Keihan Kyobashi Station, JR loop line Osakajo-Koen station, subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokichi line Osaka Business Park station exit 1 www.izumihall.co.jp/english/ concerts.html

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

This month in Kansai

ART

CLASSICAL

(Until Aug 8) Details p.20

Details p.27

Viewing Kirico, Osaka (Until Aug 18) Details p.21

Forward Motion, Kyoto

Bach organ recital, Izumi hall

FESTIVAL

ART

FESTIVAL

EVENT

Details p.22

(Until Aug 12) Details p.21

Details p.25

EVENT

LIVE MUSIC

EVENT

Details p.30

18th & 19th Details p.6

Biwako fireworks festival, Shiga

Daimonji bonfire, Kyoto

Kazuma Obara: Beyond Fukushima

Beach Boys, Osaka

Details p.25

Hozenji Yokocho Matsuri, Osaka

Jazz Picnic in Inagawa, Osaka Details p.23

Summer Sonic Osaka

National Goldfish scooping Championship, Nara Details p.24

FESTIVAL

FLEA MARKET

FEATURE

FESTIVAL

Details p.25

Details p.26

Details p.44

Details p.25

Gangarabi matsuri, Osaka

Takarazuka Garden Market, Takurazuka

Future Shorts Festival Kyoto

Minami Mido Bon Odori, Osaka

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

EVENT

LIVE MUSIC

(until Aug 14) Details p.23

Details p.30

EVENT

CLUB

FILM

EVENT

Details p.41

(Until Sep 4) Loft Umeda Details p.23

Shika senbei throwing competition, Nara

Nara Tokae, Nara

Larry Carlton, Osaka

Siberian Newspaper, Osaka Details p.31

Details p.22

Himawari (Sunflower) event, Kyoto

DJ Shadow, Circus Details p.32

(Last day) Details p.22

The Avengers is on general release

Horror manga exhibition, Ume Kowa

EVENT

FESTIVAL

ART

EVENT

(Last day 21 Aug) Details p.22

Details p.25

(Until Sep 5) Details p.20

Nara Fantasia 2012

Ohana Odori Dance, Shiga

Fumio Tachibana Exhibition, Osaka

Piece of Peace, World Heritage exhibit built with Lego速 (Until Aug 26) Details p.24

LIVE MUSIC

ART

EVENT

(Last day Aug 31) Details p.24

(Until Sep 2) Details p.24

Penicillin, Kobe Details p.30

M.C. Escher: Modification, Infinity and Labyrinth, Shiga (Until Sep 2) Details p.21

Antique kimono exhibition, Kyoto

Antique grand fair in Kyoto

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Live Music Aug 11

Aug 6

Aug 28

Onmyouza

Penicillin

Larry Carlton

The Heavy Metal unit Onmyouza fronted by female vocalist Kuroneko (black cat) came together in 1999 and have to date released eleven studio albums. Attired in Heian era Japanese clothing on stage the band play straight forward melodious metal. Twin guitarists Kurakan (meaning ‘summoning oni’) and Maneki (‘wickedness’) lead the music with an attack at times reminiscent of Iron Maiden. The group’s songs tend to revolve around themes related to Japanese folklore, samurai and dragons and their hit song Koga Ninpocho was written for the TV animated series Basilisk.

Currently on their 20th Anniversary Dragons Heart Tour, Penicillin is the trio of O-Jiro, Hakuei and Chisato. Although usually labelled under the visual kei rock genre they have a much dirtier guitar sound to their music than your regular visual kei rockers. That said, the band’s song Romance was covered by the group And on the compilation Crush! -90’s V-Rock Best Hit Cover Songs-. The album was released last year and features current visual kei bands covering songs from bands that were important to the ‘90s visual kei genre.

Four time Grammy award winning fusion guitarist Larry Carlton first picked up his instrument fifty eight years ago and has never looked back. The sixty four year old Californian started out as a highly sort after session musician in the 70’s and over the years has worked with the likes of Billy Joel, Michael Jackson, Joni Mitchell and Quincy Jones. Carlton comes to Japan to play thirteen shows having just performed well received gigs in Europe. Look out for the latest studio release 2011’s The Sound of Philadelphia.

• Wynterland, Kobe • Aug 28 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

• Club Quattro, Osaka • Aug 6 • Jazz Guitar • 7pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

• Namba Hatch, Osaka • Aug 11 • Metal • 6pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6341-4506

Live Music Listings Aug 1–2

Aug 7

Misato Watanabe

Siberian Newspaper

Big Cat, Osaka

Female Vocal · 7pm · ¥6,500/¥7,000 · Tel:06-7732-8888

Aug 3 Incognito Club Quattro, Osaka

Folk · 7pm · ¥3,500/¥4,000 · Tel: 06-6258-5008

Aug 5 Masahiro Kuwana

Jazz Funk · 7pm · ¥6,800 · Tel:066535-5569

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Naoh

CANCELLED: Sadly, this Osaka

Mister Kellys, Osaka

Sax · 7.30pm/9.15pm · ¥3,500/¥4,000 · Tel:06-6342-5821

Aug 4 Misato Watanabe Wynterland, Kobe

Female Vocal · 6pm · ¥6,500/¥7,000 · Tel:07-7732-8888

Blues guitar · 6:30pm · ¥6,000/¥6,500 · Tel: 06-6882-1224

born stalwart of the Japanese music scene suffered a stroke in July and is currently hospital bound. Fans are still buying tickets for this gig however to show their support.

Aug 7-9 Talking Rock Festival ft. Akai Koen/Andymori/ The Bawdies/Acid Man/ Art School/Baseball Bear/Plenty Zepp, Osaka

Rock-pop · 6.30pm · 1 day-¥3,990/3 day-¥11,111 · www.talkingrock.jp Tel:06-7732-8888

Aug 6

Aug 11

Larry Carlton

Damijaw

Club Quattro, Osaka

Muse, Kyoto

Jazz Guitar · 7pm · ¥6,000 · Tel:066535-5569

J-Rock · 6pm · ¥5,250/¥5,750 · Tel:075-223-0389

Onmyouza Namba Hatch, Osaka

Rock · 6pm · ¥5,000/¥5,500 · Tel:066341-4506

Miyaki Shinji Taku Taku, Kyoto

Rock · 6.30pm · ¥4,000/¥4,500 · Tel:075-351-1321

Aug 12 Damijaw Wynterland, Kobe

Rock · 6pm · ¥5,250/¥5,750 · Tel:077732-8888

Aug 14 Royz Varit, Kobe

J-Rock · 7pm · ¥3,800/¥4,300 · Tel:078-392-6655

Aug 16 Yasuhiro Yamane

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Aug 7

Siberian Newspaper At the opposite musical genre scale to Onmyouza comes Japanese folk musicians under the name Siberian Newspaper. Adding pop-rock elements to their songs, Siberian Newspaper are able to take their music to a slightly different dimension than your average folk troupe, which is quite a welcome musical breath of fresh air. Formed by guitarist Takao Amori in 2005 and releasing their debut album Asiatic Spy just a year later, the band put out their latest studio album last month. Zero is a thirteentrack disc featuring the highly recommended instrumental Kimi Ga Hoshii.

Quite rightly, Siberian Newspaper has received high acclaim outside of Japan, being featured on BBC radio and appearing at the In The City festival held in Manchester, England. Definitely a band to look out for as their popularity can only grow. • Big Cat, Osaka • Aug 7 • Folk-Rock-Pop • 7pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • Tel: 06-6258-5008

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Aug 18-19

Aug 17

Aug 19

Beach Boys

RnB · 7pm · ¥6,300/¥7,300 · Tel:067732-8888

Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium

Club Quattro, Osaka

Aug 25–26

Singer-songwriter · 6.30pm · ¥6,500 · Tel:06-7732-8888

Pop · 7pm · ¥8,000/¥9,000 · Tel:067732-8888

Aug 18

Pop-Rock · 18th-6pm/19th-4pm · ¥7,875 · Tel:06-6357-3666

Rock · 5pm · ¥4,200/¥4,700 · Tel:066344-3326

Hideki Takizawa Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Pop · 4pm · ¥7,500 · Tel:06-77328888

Muse, Osaka

Aug 22

Rock · 6.30pm · ¥4,000/¥4,500 · Tel:06-6245-5389

Black Gene For The Next Scene Shangri-La, Osaka

Alice Nine Zepp, Osaka

Rock · 6.30pm · ¥5,250 · Tel:067732-8888

Rock · 7pm · ¥3,500/¥4,000 · Tel:066343-8601

Aug 24

YUKI

Napalm Death

Grand Cube, Osaka

Club Quattro, Osaka

Pick

Death Metal · 6.45pm · ¥7,500 · Tel:03-3444-6751

Soul · 6.30pm/9.30pm · ¥7,900/¥6,000 · Tel-06-6342-7722

Che’nelle

Aug 28

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Hiromi Go Grand Cube, Osaka

Pop · 25th-6pm/26th-3pm · ¥7,500 · Tel:06-6344-3326

Aug 26 Happiness

Penicilin Wynterland, Kobe

Rock · 7pm · ¥5,500/¥6,000 · Tel:066341-3525

Aug 29 Crying Nut / The 50 Kaintenz Varit, Kobe

Punk Rock · 7pm · ¥2,800 · Tel:066535-5569

Muse, Osaka

Aug 31

Aug 27

Crying Nut / The 50 Kaintenz

J-Pop · 5pm · ¥3,000 · Tel:06-62455389

Ben E King Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka Aug 27

Janus, Osaka

Punk Rock · 7pm · ¥2,800 · Tel:066535-5569

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Club

Shadow man

Aug 13

Circus welcomes the turntable legend DJ Shadow, aka Joshua

Davis. DJ Shadow is an American producer/DJ, widely credited as key figure in the development of the experimental hip-hop style associated with the London-based Mo’ Wax label. DJ Shadow first gained attention with the release of his highly acclaimed debut album Endtroducing....., which was constructed almost entirely from samples. In 2006, he released his third (and the latest) full-length album The Outsider, which featured several artists from the the local San Francisco Bay Area, Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest, Keak Da Sneak and Turf Talk. Besides his solo project, he’s also worked with James Lavelle and produced U.N.K.L.E., and gained superstar guests including Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, The Verve’s Richard Ashcroft and Mike D from the Beastie Boys. It’s very rare to see DJ Shadow at a small venue like Circus, so don’t miss this chance!

DJ Shadow Asia Tour in Osaka (Hip hop) • DJs: Shadow, Kazuma • Open: 6pm-11pm • Admission: ¥4,500 (ADV: ¥4,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Club Listings Aug 3 (Fri) Azure Heartbeat (Hip-hop) • DJs: Lead, B-Ball + more• Admission: Men: ¥2,500/1D, Women: ¥Free (¥Free before 11pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6212-0226 • www.clubazure.net

Circus JPN Westside D’N’B Conversation 2012 (Drum&Bass) • DJs: Ichi aka Digital One, Godfarm, Toshizo, Hiroshi, Toyo, Nari aka Futurelion , Masashi • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka. com

Grand Cafe Jusjoy (All mix) • Live: Hiroyuki, Kris, Rip + more • DJs: A-z, Show-T, G-ride + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Joule Platina (Techno/House) • DJs: Mr.Alfil, Masashi Osaku, Shine, DKBaseline, JunkyJun + more • Open: 8pm • Admission: Men: ¥2,000/2D, Women: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6214-1223 • http://club-joule.jp

Metro Festalica (House) • DJs: Hideo Kobayashi, Tomomi Ukumori, DJ Omkt, K-hiro + more • Open: 8pm

• Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV & WF: ¥2,000) • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075752-4765 • www.metro.ne.jp

Onzieme

• Tel: 06-6214-1223 • http://clubjoule.jp

Onzieme

Spin The Mix (All mix) • DJs: KoTaro, Ochiai Kentaro, O-Tan, Ma’am + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Free for women before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Tip of Smile presents Block Party (House/Electro) • DJs: Taku Takahashi, Verbal Taku-Hero • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme. com

Aug 4 (Sat)

Troopcafe

Circus Circus Show Case Saturday feat. Tip of Smile (House/Techno) • DJs: Hiroshi Watanabe aka Kaito, Ageishi, Naoya Sugimoto • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D(ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Grand Cafe Sata Cra (All mix) • DJ: Groovy workshop • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: Men: ¥2,000/1D, Women: ¥Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Joule Tip of Smile & Club Joule presents Queen 2012 (Techno/Drum’n’Bass/ Electro) • DJs: Energy Dai, Toyo, M.Minami, O-Man, Hidetaka, David Byrne, Dom Pang, Dmitori + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Men: ¥2,500/1D, Women: ¥2,000/1D (Before 10pm: ¥500 discount ) • Where: Shinsaibashi

REC 4th Anniversay! (House/ Techno) • DJ: Ko Kimura• Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D) • Where: Sannomiya • Tel: 078-321-3130 • http://troopcafe.tumblr.com

Aug 5 (Sun) Grand Cafe Asa Gura - Sunrise (All mix) • DJs: Kenichi, Higenee, Ikumi • Open: Sunrise • Admission: ¥Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party (House/Electro) • DJs: Off The Rocker, Golden, Taku-Hero, Y-Bu• Open: 5pm–9pm • Admission: Men: ¥3,000/2D, Women: ¥2,500/2D (Before 6pm: Men: ¥1,000/1D, Women: ¥Free) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • http://owl-osaka.net

Aug 9 (Thu) Onzieme

Seven feat. Kaoru Inoue (House) • DJs: Kaoru Inoue, Nao Nomura, Osakaman, Senda, Asaura, Kojiman, Bancho • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (Women: ¥Free before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Aug 10 (Fri) Azure Osaka Safari (Hip-hop) • DJs: George, Shimotaku, Malu, B-Ball, Bullset, Macko • Admission: Men: ¥2,500/1D, Women: ¥Free (¥Free before 11pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6212-0226 • www.clubazure.net

Circus Circus Show Case Friday (Drum&Bass) • DJs: Toyo, Masashi, Rasty, MSK • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Grand Cafe Oreo (House/Techno) • DJs: Soichi Tanaka, Mitsuda Daisuke, Taver, Tomy, Marvy • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (¥Free before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www. grandcafeosaka.com

Joule DJ Tasaka (Techno) • DJs: Tasaka, Monashee, Kato Toshiya + more • Open: 8pm • Admission:¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 066214-1223 • http://club-joule.jp

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Onzieme

Rockets

R&B in the House (All mix) • DJs: Fumi Yeah!, Ko-Taro, Rover, TOmoki, Tenten + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Free for women before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Bugparty 5th Anniversary (Hiphop) • Live: Hondub Hiroaki, Hot Connexion Crew, Nickelman & Eagle84 + more • DJs: Halptribe, Mo-ri, Naguy, Kazuhide + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D(ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Namba • Tel: 06-6649-3919 • www.namba-rockets.com

Aug 11 (Sat) Circus Circus Show Case (Techno) • DJ: Naoya Sugimoto • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com Grand Cafe Diesel: U: Music presents Wicked! 15th Anniversary Party (House) • DJs: R(erre)del Mondo + more • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www. grandcafeosaka.com

Onzieme Joy Rich presents The Party (Techno/Electro) • DJs: Eli Escobar, Maar, Elli-Rose, Juse Yoshio • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62430089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party feat. Unite (House/ Electro) • DJs: Ken Arai, Taku Nakahara, Sumire + more • Open: 5pm–9pm • Admission: Men: ¥3,000/2D, Women: ¥2,500/2D (Before 6pm: Men: ¥1,000/1D, Women: ¥Free) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • http://owlosaka.net

Aug 12 (Sun) Circus Audio Werner Japan Tour (Techno) • DJs: Audio Werner, Kunimitsu, Masataka, Kato Toshiya • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party (House/Electro) • DJs: Ryozzy-Jef, The Lowbrows, Van Cliffe.D aka Elli-Rose + more • Open: 3pm–9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (Before 4pm: ¥Free) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • http://owl-osaka.net

Grand Cafe Live Rally (House) • Acts: A Hundred Birds, Gebo, Bunbun the MC, 1945 aka Kuranaka, Yoku, Seiho • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000• Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Aug 17 (Fri) Circus Circus Show Case Friday (Drum&Bass) • DJs: Toyo, Masashi, Rasty, MSK • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Onzieme Public Friday x Summer Sonic PreParty (All mix) • DJs: Koji Kubota, Ban-Chan, Ko-Taro + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Free for women before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Troopcafe Mark E Japan Tour (House) • DJ: Yoku• Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D) • Where: Sannomiya • Tel: 078-3213130 • http://troopcafe.tumblr.com

Aug 18 (Sat) Circus Circus Show Case Saturday feat. Heiko Laux (Techno) • DJs: Heiko Laux, Naoya Sugimoto, Fumi • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D(ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Grand Cafe Electro Climax (House/Techno) • DJs: Talamasca, Dan Elliot, David Byrne, Dom Pang, Dmitri, Shawn Basik + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (¥Free before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www. grandcafeosaka.com

Onzieme Electrojunkie - We Are Back (House/Electro) • DJs: Ko Matsushima, Taku-Hero, Ypy, Flash + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (Women for ¥2,000/1D before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party feat. Sound Cruising (House/Electro) • DJs: uses, Ranson, Dai, Mirai + more • Open: 5pm– 9pm • Admission: Men: ¥3,000/2D,

Women: ¥2,500/2D (Before 6pm: Men: ¥1,000/1D, Women: ¥Free) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • http://owl-osaka.net

Rockets Ragga Channel (Reggae) • Live: Green Green, Punch & Mighty, Tuttle & Gebo + more • DJs: Obrigarrd, Evisbeats, Kokusai Boys, Rock D Tsuyoshi + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Namba • Tel: 066649-3919 • www.namba-rockets. com

Aug 19 (Sun) Circus DJ Krush in Circus (Hip-hop) • DJs: Krush + Monka + more • Open: 7pm–12am • Admission: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,800) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party feat. Okinawa Night (House/Electro) • DJs: Orinbeats, Kireek, Kyoko, Kakayuki + more • Open: 3pm–9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (Before 4pm: ¥Free) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • http://owl-osaka.net

Aug 20 (Mon) Grand Cafe One (House/Techno) • DJs: Yashima, Nao Nomura • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: TBA • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62130031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Aug 24 (Fri) Circus Circus Show Case Friday (Drum&Bass) • DJs: Toyo, Masashi, Rasty, MSK, Danny Wheller • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Onzieme Mild Seven presents Blue Windy Night feat.Bouncer (All mix) • DJs: Takuto Onuki, Kubota Koji + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Free for women before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Aug 25 (Sat) Circus Circus Show Case (Techno) • DJs: Ree.k, Monashee, Naoya Sugimoto • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Grand Cafe Mildseven presents Blue Windy Night x Daishi Dance presents Midnight! (House) • DJs: Soichi Daishi Dance, Shinji Takeda • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (¥1,500/1D before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Onzieme Hush! (House/Techno) • DJs: Sebo K., Nao Nomura, Yabu, Masataka + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (Women for ¥2,000/1D before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme. com

Aug 26 (Sun) Grand Cafe Asa Gura - Sunrise (All mix) • DJs: Kenichi, Higenee, Ikumi • Open: Sunrise • Admission: ¥Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Circus Bleep On Love (Hard Dance/ Techno) • DJs: Remo-con, M.Minami • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,800) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Owl Osaka Sunset Party feat. Kitsune Club Night (House/Electro) • DJs: Gladas, Jerry Brouthier, TakuHero + more • Open: 3pm-9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (¥Free before 4pm) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 066362-0822 • http://owl-osaka.net

Aug 29 (Wed) Grand Cafe The Wednesday Club (Techno/ House) • DJs: Fumi + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62130031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Aug 31 (Fri) Circus Circus Show Case Friday (Drum&Bass) • DJs: Toyo, Masashi, Rasty, MSK • Open: 6pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Grand Cafe K-Night (All mix) • DJs: Kenichi, Yu, Ma-sha, Ikumi, Ron• Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (¥Free before 9pm) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Food and drink

The fizz biz: how pop’s growing up Once upon a time, soda pops were kids’ drinks. Well, not anymore. The beverage behemoths have adults in their marketing sights. Here’s how big boys and girls will be quenching their thirst this summer. Text: Sophie Umeda • Images: KS

Think citrus All the major manufacturers are plumping for lemon, orange or grapefruit. Citrus gives the drink a crisp, fresh, summery taste. The subtle sourness can sharpen you up, and the Vitamin C and citric acid will zap the substances that tire your body. Otona no Kirin Lemon (“Kirin Lemon for Adults”) has been a hit with women. DyDo went for Japanese citrus with its Yuzu gokochi Cider. Asahi has released a lemon version of the 120-year-old Wilkinson Tansan brand. Sapporo’s offering is ZeroSparkling Grapefruits, that somehow manages to include real juice but no calories.

Cut the calories Kids can drink sugar till their teeth fall out, but adults want something healthier. Grown-up sodas are usually low-cal or calorie free. Itoen’s Stylee Sparkling launched in July, contains none. Mitsuya claims to have stropped its popular cider of three evils: calories, carbohydrates and preservatives.

KS Picks We sampled the newest contendors to hit the shelves of convenience stores and supermarkets across Kansai…

Sandaime Komezukuri JT’s rice-based sparkler boasts great design, touchy feely packaging, a gentle fizz, and a delicious cream soda flavor. You also get the satisfaction of supporting big tobacco.

Mets Cola If you drink any cola for health reasons, you’re a very silly sausage. But Mets is a great, fruity cola that can stand up to the big boys in a taste-off.

Block the blubber Drinking coke with burgers and chips probably isn’t anyone’s idea of healthy eating. But Kirin claims its Mets Cola can prevent the body absorbing fat. The magic ingredient is dextrin, a light carbohydrate that’s found in some diet supplements. Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency last month declared Mets Cola a “tokuho” foodstuff, short for tokutei hokenyou shokuhin, meaning food that’s officially good for you. The drink has been a massive hit - shifting more than a million cases in its first two weeks on sale. Itoen’s Stylee Sparkling also won tokuho status. The company says the polyphenols from the citrus fruit prevent fat absorption and burn off neutral fat.

Stylee Sparkling Smells and tastes like bubble bath. You could make your own by adding a splash of washing-up liquid to a glass of soda water.

Real Spark Brits will think of Irn Bru or Tizer. For the rest of you, think rust and orange. Lovely. And even better with a splash of vodka.

Add some aminos If you want to sell to a mature market, bung in some vitimins, minerals or amino acids. C.C. Lemon Strong contains royal jelly and 70 lemons’ worth of vitamin C. Otona no Kirin Lemon has vitamin B6 and ornithine. So what if you’ve never heard of it? Drink up.

Calpis Salty Lemon Not just the cream of the summer crop, but a big improvement on regular Calpis. It’s liquid sherbet with just the right hints of salt and lemon.

Pick

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Food and drink

Absinthe makes our heart grow fonder Text: Celia Polkinghorne • Images: Absinthe Solaar

Where I’m from, barbecue philosophy goes like this: “Throw another prawn on the barbie, mate”. At Absinthe Solaar, there’s a little more style in the sizzle. Every night of the week on the eighth floor of Namba’s Takashimaya building, Absinthe Solaar’s rooftop beer garden offers outdoor barbecue of a more gourmet bent than ever was found in my humble Aussie backyard. You won’t find charcoaled chops or sausages in bread and ketchup. Instead, you get plate after plate of delectable appetizers resembling something of a Greek meze table. The Mediterranean slant is no accident – owners Miho and Dmitri spent about four years working together in restaurants in Israel. The eclectic mix of starters is likely to include a smattering of salads with chickpea, couscous, potato and egg bases, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, olives, dips, pita bread and a selection of lightly cooked meats. Attentive beer garden staff will then begin delivering barbecued delights to your table. There’s a lamb kebab with

more herbs than you can poke your tongs at and a giant metal skewer with a mouth-watering assembly of squid, scallops, shrimp, beef, chicken, pork and vegetables. The deal is all-you-can-eat for two hours. You’ll have plenty of grilled morsels to keep you busy and the chef will be outside with you, sizzling the skewers. The 5,000 yen price tag includes allyou-can-drink beer, chuhai, juice, spirits, wine and even sangria. Make sure the staff have loaded the kegs and you’ll be ready to go with the self-service drinks bar. You can mix your own beverages to your heart’s desire. A meze table is traditionally a casual, warm and inviting place to gather and share communal plates and spirited conversation at a leisurely pace. Outdoors and eight levels high above Namba’s swirling street buzz, an assortment of long, thin wooden tables and round steel ones among the garden’s small trees and neat green grass creates a cosy atmosphere conducive to exactly this. The area

is tastefully lit by candles, lanterns and fairy lights. The beer garden seats up to 40 people, but it’s wise to book at least a day in advance. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are back-up options indoors.

Absinthe Solaar • Where: 8F Namba Dining Maison (Takashimaya Dept Store), 5-1-18 Namba, Chuo-Ku, Osaka • Access: Subway Midosuji Line • Barbecue Course: Available every day 5pm – 11pm (L.O. 9pm) • Tel: 06-6633-1445 or 090-1072-3691 • Price: ¥5,000 – All you can eat and drink (two hours) • Coupons: Visit www.gnavi.co.jp/en for discount coupons

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Food and drink

Brain food Ali Zaidi says the most popular dish at his restaurant is goat brain masala. We don’t believe him, but we went to try it anyway. Text: Alan Wiren • Images: KS

Serving up an aromatic masala dish with a circle of naan, Ali Zaidi asks, “Is this your first time to eat brain?” I admit my status as a neuro-gastral debutant and tuck into his signature dish. I’m at Ali’s Kitchen, and no name could be more suited to this new Osaka restaurant. Ali is its heart and soul, and he’s passionate about what comes out of the tiny kitchen, past the three-seater bar, and on to one of the seven tables The space is cozy, but roomy enough to include a stage for belly dancing on weekend nights. The lighting is subdued and the walls bear writings in Arabic. Ali’s parents divorced when he was seven and he grew up spending half the year in Abu Dhabi and half in Pakistan. It was this experience, he says, that lead him to cooking. But the restaurant trade was not what brought him to Japan. His first job here was as a network manager in Tokyo. Ten years later, after a move to Osaka, and time spent working in a music studio and teaching English, he opened his first restaurant.

“I’m a jack of all trades,” he beams. “But master of cooking!” The menu at Ali’s Kitchen, his second restaurant, justifies the claim. There are well over 100 items to choose from, including both Pakistani and Arabic dishes. Biryanis, tandoori, tikka and daals share a menu with hummus and baba ghanoush. “That’s nothing!” says Ali. The menu at his former place ran to 635 selections. Regular guests would come each week, trying to eat their way through it. I ask where his recipes come from. He just taps his forehead and smiles. He says it’s hard to get some ingredients in Japan, but he’s adamant that his food must be authentic so he has his brothers in Dubai and cousins in Pakistan send over his spices. The most important proof of Ali’s mastery is, of course, to taste his cooking. The masala is a sensitively orchestrated symphony of spices supported by vegetable notes around that main ingredient. And what do goats’ brains taste like? Even if you have no desire to find out, there

are still more than a hundred tantalizing reasons to dine in Ali’s kitchen. This month is an especially good time to visit because it is the season of Ramadan. After sunset, Ali will serve the cultural delicacies that mark that time in the Middle East.

Ali’s Kitchen Pakistani and Arabic cuisine • Where: B1 1-10-12 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka • Access: See KS Shinsaibashi map C-2 • Tel: 06-6553-2292 • Url: www.aliskitchen.jp • Open: 11:00–24:00 Fri/Sat 11:00–02:00

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Aug 14

Pick

Coming soon

Madagascar 3: Europe’s most wanted Aug 1 It’s been seven years since Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Gloria the hippo and Melman the giraffe escaped their plush New York zoo for a wild adventure in Africa. Now they’re heading to Europe, on the run from a crazed Animal Control captain, and wind up in an Italian travelling circus. While trying to revive the circus, they’re quickly making new animal friends. The circus is soon heading stateside, but even if our gang do get back to New York, will zoo life ever be the same again? Colourful family fun. Animation, Adventure, Comedy • USA • English • 93 mins • Starring: Ben Stiller, Jada Pinkett Smith, Chris Rock • Directors: Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, Conrad Vernon • Paramount Japan

The Thing

7 Days in Havana

Total Recall

Aug 4 Fans of John Carpenter’s 1982 movie (a remake of a 1951 flick, too) may be pleased to hear this is not a remake, exactly, but a prequel. Opinion is still divided on if it’s a good or bad addition to the series. By itself, it’s a good setup – an Antarctica research site is being plagued with a creepy alien who can take the form of its prey. The scientists have to figure who who they can trust before they’re next for the kill. What really happened at that Norwegian camp? Carpenter fans have debated it for years, and probably still will.

Aug 4 Seven days, seven people, seven stories and lashings of rum. Benicio Del Toro is just one of – you guessed it – seven directors who created their own short film based on a multi-stranded script by one writer. In the first short, a naive traveller has his eyes opened by a wild night dancing to the beats of Havana. In another, a drunken filmmaker collects a film festival award then legs it to play the trumpet with his driver. In complete contrast, there’s also a story about teen lesbian exorcism. A good blend? Taste it and decide.

Horror, Mystery, Sci-fi • USA, Canada • English, Norwegian, Danish • 103 mins • Starring: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Ulrich Thomsen •Director: Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. • Pony Canyon

Drama • France, Spain • Spanish • 129 mins • Starring: Josh Hutcherson, Daniel Bruhl, Emir Kusturica • Director: Laurent Cantent, Benicio Del Toro et al • Alcine Terran

Aug 10 There are some memories we’d all rather forget. Where you stand on this remake may well hinge on how much you remember (or loved) the 1990 original. That one had a muscled-up Arnie, explosions, a bit of drag, and slapstick humor. This remake has Colin Farrell, Blade Runner-styled effects and a more serious tone to the identity crisis. It’s perhaps closer to the short story that inspired it, by the late Philip K Dick. In case you forgot the story already: Douglas Quaid pays for memory implants, but the procedure reawakens his forgotten past. Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi • USA, Canada English • 121 mins • Starring: Colin Farrell, Bokeen Woodbine, Bryan Cranston • Director: Len Wiseman Sony Pictures Entertainment

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Film previews

The Avengers Aug 14

All you need to know about this movie, other than it’s Marvel’s long-awaited superhero smackdown, is the director’s name: Joss Whedon. If you’ve watched any of his self-penned creations: Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, Serenity or The Cabin in The Woods, you’ll know that this guy is witty, playful, and likes to give his female characters good, gutsy roles. If you’re one of the millions of people who enjoyed Toy Story, you’ve also got Joss to thank. Before he got his hands on it, the script was in a bad state. Rex didn’t exist. Woody was unlikeable. Joss performed a script editing miracle, and it wasn’t his last. He’s also had a hand in the Aliens sequels, Speed, Waterworld and X-Men. Of all the scripts he’s worked on, in the past Joss has said that X-Men was the script closest to his heart, as he’s a huge comic book geek. He submitted a script for a Wonder Woman movie a few years ago, though it didn’t pan out. Solid script experience, a passion for comics and a canny sense of dialogue – what better person to write and direct The Avengers? Super-dudes Iron Man, The Hulk, Captain America and Thor have all had their own individual turns in the movie spotlight

in recent years, so little extra backstory on these guys is needed for the viewer: they’re super, but they’ve got some human flaws. Hawkeye the archer and Black Widow are the only newcomers, but Joss doesn’t mess about too much with their backstories either, instead quickly getting them in on the action. The main bad guy here is Loki, aka the God of Mischief. Loki is Thor’s adopted brother, and proved himself to be a pain in the rear in 2011’s Thor. Now, he’s got an army of alien bad guys called the Chitauri to do his dirty work. Of course, he’s putting the earth in danger and of course, our superheroes will team up to save the day, after the government agency S.H.I.E.L.D rounds them all up. With Joss at the helm, expect solid teamwork between the heroes, some angsty bad guys, witty pop culture references, snappy dialogue and kick-ass females. Sure to be fantastic for the Marvel fanboys, and solid entertainment for just about everybody else on the planet.

The Grey

War of the arrows

Aug 18 After their plane crash-lands in Alaska, six oil rig workers are surrounded by ice, snow and howling winds... wait a minute, that’s not just the wind howling. It’s a pack of wolves, closing in on the fresh meat. Luckily, the lads have strapping Liam Neeson to protect them. Liam is a skilled huntsman, and the others willingly follow his lead to escape the wolves, by legging it into the forests. Unfortunately the wolves are wise to his ways, and the number of survivors stars to dwindle. Wolf experts may have howled at the movie’s wildlife inaccuracies, but as a survival fantasy, it’s chilling stuff.

Aug 25 If you thrilled at the swordplay of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, drank in the vivid colour-changing scenes of Hero and got taken in by the sneaky House of Flying Daggers lot, this one’s definitely for you. It’s the early 1600s, and China is invading Korea, but they just made it more personal for one very skilled archer. Nam-Yi swore to look after his sister Ja-In after their father was murdered in a royal hush-up. Some soldiers have kidnapped her, so now he’s on a rescue mission, taking the army down one stylish arrow at a time. Beautiful action, the way only Asian cinema can make it.

Ruroni Kenshin: Meiji kenkaku roman tan

After School Midnighters

Aug 25 As a ruthless assassin, Himura Kenshin has seen his fair share of battle, and now he wanders the countryside of Meiji-era Japan peacefully, looking to help those in need. He steps in to help sword school teacher Kamiya Kaoru win a battle, and she offers him a temporary home. Of course, no life of a swordsman can stay peaceful for long, and Kenshin learns a new assassin is on the scene, planning to destroy the Meiji government. A immensely popular manga and anime series in the 1990s, if it’s popular this movie may be just the first in a new series.

Aug 25 By day, he’s just an anatomical model, helping kids learn about biology in an elementary school. But when the kids go home and the lights go out, Kynst Lijk comes to life. He sings, he dances, and charms the school’s other objects into crazy musical numbers with him. One day, three naughty pupils stay behind and learn his secret, and so he whisks them away on a weird and wonderful adventure featuring dancing skeletons and mafioso bunnies. Kyushu-based Hitoshi Takekiyo makes a promising feature-length debut with this top class adventure.

Drama • Japan • Japanese • Starring: Yu Aoi, Takeru Sato, Teruyuki Kagawa • Director: Keishi Ohtomo • Warner Bros

Animation • Japan • Japanese • 95 mins Starring: Koichi Yamadera, Jurota Kosugi, Hochu Otsuka • Director: Hitoshi Takekiyo • T-Joy

Action, Adventure, Drama • USA English • 117 mins • Starring: Liam Neeson, Dermot Mulroney, Frank Grillo Director: Joe Carnahan • Showgate

Action, History • South Korea Korean • 122 mins • Starring: Hae-il Park, Seung-yong Ryoo, Chae-won Moon Director: Han-min Kim • Showgate

• Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller • USA • English, Russian • 143 mins • Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson • Director: Joss Whedon • Walt Disney Studios Japan

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

DVD Release Listings Aug 2

Hellraiser: Revelations

Ninth installment of the horror series featuring Pinhead, set this time in Mexico.

Aug 2

The Hunter

The last Tasmanian tiger’s days are numbered, thanks to Willem Dafoe.

Aug 2

Beastly

Osaka Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda • Tel: 06-6316-1312 • www. tohotheater.jp • Wed for women, 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Brave, The Dark

Knight Rises, Road to Ninja-Naruto The Movie, Madagascar 3, Eight Ranger From August 4: Another, The Thing From August 10: Total Recall From August 17: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Anata e

A modern-day Beauty and Beast tale set in a New York high school.

Take Shelter

Spooky visions see a man drag his unbelieving family into a home-made shelter.

Machine Gun Preacher

A former gang member finds God and builds an orphanage in Uganda.

Aug 3

My Week With Marilyn

Another side to the blonde bombshell is revealed during a movie shoot.

Umeda Burg7 • Tel: 06-4795-7602 • http://burg7.com • Wed for women, 1st of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Melancholia

A planet is hurtling towards earth, as two sisters struggle to sort out their relationship.

Lawyer, Betty Blue, Les femmes du 6eme etage From August 4: Monsieur Lazhar From August 11: Kazoku no Kuni From August 18: Nippon no Uso From August 25: God Bless America, Ai wo Utauyori Ore ni Oborero!

Habemus Papam, Brave, Big Miracle, Madagascar 3, The Dark Knight Rises From August 10: Total Recall From August 17: The Avengers From August 18: The Grey From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Anata e, Rurouni Kenshin

Umeda Garden Cinema • Tel: 06-6440-5977 • www.kadokawa-gardencinema. jp/umeda • Every Wed & 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Jane Eyre, Le Cose che Restano, Piranha Returns From August 11: Take This Waltz, Togani

Disney goes to Mars, with the fantastical story of a civil war-era time traveller. 7 Days in Havana

1930s Paris is the setting for a magical adventure for loveable orphan Hugo.

Now showing: The Lincoln

Kenshin, After School Midnighters

John Carter

Hugo

• Tel: 06-6359-1080 • www.ttcg.jp/theatre_umeda • Every Wed & 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Aug 22

Aug 24

Theatre Umeda

From August 10: Total Recall From August 10: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Rurouni

Now showing: Midnight in Paris,

Aug 3

From August 18: 7 Days in Havana From August 25: Abendland From August 25: 9 Souls

Now showing: Thermae Romae,

The Dark Knight Returns

Now showing: Brave, Madagascar

Aug 3

The Courier

• Tel: 06-6346-3215 • www.osakastationcitycinema.com • Wed for women & 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Okaeri, Hayabusa

Aug 2

Girigiri no Onnatachi

From August 11: Remembrance,

Osaka Station City Cinema

Aug 2 Drama based on the true story of Hayabusa, an unmanned Japanese spacecraft.

Now showing: Crazy Horse Paris,

Total Recall

Toho Cinemas Namba • Tel: 06-6633-1040 • www.tohotheater.jp • Wed for women, 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Brave, The Dark

Knight Rises, Road to Ninja-Naruto The Movie, Madagascar 3, Eight Ranger From August 4: Another, The Thing From August 10: Total Recall From August 11: Kirishima Bukatsu Yamerutteyo From August 17: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Anata e

Cine Libre Umeda

Namba Parks Cinema

• Tel: 06-6440-5930 • www.ttcg.jp/cinelibre_umeda • Every Wed, 1st & 15th of the month: ¥1,000

• Tel: 06-6643-3215 • www.parkscinema.com • Wed for women & 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

• After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Brave, Starship

Now showing: Death in Venice,

Troopers: Invasion, The Dark Knight Rises From August 10: Total Recall From August 17: The Avengers From August 18: The Grey From August 24: Prometheus

Chichino Syonanoka, Vidal Sassoon The Movie, From August 4: Le Cose che Restano From August 11: Togani, The Beaver, Black Bread From August 25: Monsieur Lazhar

Cinem@rt

Toho Cinemas Nijo

• Tel: 06-6282-0815 • www.cinemart.co.jp/theater/ shinsaibashi • Wed for women, Mon for men & 1st of the month: ¥1,000

• Tel: 075-813-2410 • www.tohotheater.jp • Wed for women, 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Princess Kaiulani From August 11: Kazokunokuni From August 25: Kamiyumi

Now showing: Brave, Habemus

Kyoto Movix Kyoto • Tel: 075-254-3215 • www.movix.co.jp • Wed for women, 1st & 20th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: The Dark Knight

Rises, Madagascar 3, Brave, Starship Troopers: Invasion From August 10: Total Recall From August 14: The Avengers From August 18: The Grey From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Rurouni Kenshin

The Grey

Kyoto Cinema • Tel: 075-353-4723 • www.kyotocinema.jp • 1st of the month: ¥1,000 • Wed: ¥1,300

Papam, The Dark Knight Rises, Road to Ninja-Naruto The Movie, Madagascar 3 From August 4: The Thing From August 10: Total Recall From August 11: Kirishima Bukatsu Yamerutteyo From August 17: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Rurouni Kenshin, Anata e

Kyoto Minami Kaikan • Tel: 075-661-3993 • www.kyoto-minamikaikan.jp/ • Wed for women & 1st of the month: ¥1,000 • After 9:30pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Animeshi Sugii

Gizaburo, Koman Teikoku, Henge, Olo, Virgin From August 4: Two Rabbits in Osaka From August 11: Kono Sora no Hana, Welcome Back! Kaurismüki From August 18: Le Havre From August 25: Ikituzukeru Roman Porno From August 25: Ginga Tetsudo no Yoru

• After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Road to Ninja-

Naruto The Movie, The Dark Knight Rises, From August 10: Total Recall From August 17: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus

From August 25: Nippon no Uso,

Remembrance

Nara Movix Kashihara • Tel: 0744-21-1700 • www.movix.co.jp • Wed for women, Thu for men, 1st & 20th of the month, 3rd Tue of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Prometheus

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku • Tel: 078-230-3580 • www.shochiku-eigakan.com • Tue for women & 1st of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing : The Dark Knight Rises, Road to Ninja-Naruto The Movie, Madagascar 3 From August 4: Another From August 10: Total Recall From August 14: The Avengers From August 18: The Grey From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Rurouni Kenshin

Now showing: The Lady, Starship

Troopers: Invasion, The Dark Knight Rises, Madagascar 3 From August 10: Total Recall From August 18: The Grey

CIne Mosaic Harborland Mosaic 3F • Tel: 078-360-0700 • www.cinemosaic.jp • Tue for women, 1st & 16th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: The Amazing

Spider-Man, Brave Hearts Umizaru

From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Anata e

Cine Libre Kobe

Kobe

• Tel: 078-334-2126 • www.ttcg.jp/cinelibre_kobe • Every Wed, 1st & 15th of the month: ¥1,000

OS Cinema Mint Kobe

Now showing: Habemus Papam,

• Tel: 078-291-5330 • www.jollios.net • Tue for women, 1st & 16th of the month: ¥1,000

From August 11: Kazoku no Kuni,

Les femmes du 6eme etage

Monsieur Lazhar

From August 18: Togani, Take

This Waltz

Rurouni Kenshin

Toho Cinemas Nara • Tel: 0744-21-6050 • www.tohotheater.jp • Wed for women, 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,000 • After 8pm: ¥1,200

Now showing: Brave, The Dark

Knight Rises, Road to Ninja-Naruto The Movie, Madagascar 3, Eight Ranger From August 4: Another From August 10: Total Recall From August 11: Kirishima Bukatsu Yamerutteyo From August 17: The Avengers From August 24: Prometheus From August 25: Rurouni Kenshin, Yamikin Ushijima-kun, Anata e

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Film

Just the ticket Independent movie fans rejoice! An international short film festival is coming to Kansai for the third time, but best grab a seat quickly, as it’s for one day only. Text: Donna Sheffield • Images: Future Shorts

Love movies, but short on time? You’re not alone. Short films give directors the chance to test out a neat story idea, without committing years or thousands of yen. They’re often the starting point for directing, screenwriting and acting careers, and for audiences, there’s the chance to enjoy a movie without numbing the bum or losing precious time to stinkers. Great news for movie fans in Kansai, then, as the largest short film network in the world is hosting a one-day summer festival in Kyoto. Since 2003, Future Shorts has been supporting the filmmaking industry by getting short films funded, shot and aired. It promotes movies through its website and festivals instead of major Hollywood premieres. Founder and creative director Fabien Riggall explains: “Film festivals are great social events. They bring communites together, as a place to share new ideas and learn about new cultures.” Anyone around the world can apply to host a Future Shorts Festival, a seasonal selection of short films from global filmmakers. All you need is a venue, and the passion for bringing an audience together. Tong Cheuk Fung from international organisation We Are One Japan has both, and he’s hosting the festival in Kansai for the third time. The last events were held earlier this year in February (winter season) and April (spring season). “This event is very much in line with our vision at We Are One, connecting internationally-minded people through interesting events and projects,” says Tong. “I think Future Shorts films reflect culture and society better than commercial films.” Future Shorts festivals have been hosted in many venues, from nightclubs to shipping containers. This time the venue will

be Art Complex, Kyoto, in a room that’s usually home to nonverbal performance art group Gear. They’re supporting the event by loaning out their venue, and Tong’s also looking for more support and volunteers on the night. If you can help with anything, from serving drinks to co-ordinating a marketing plan, get in touch with Tong using the email address listed opposite. If you’re interested in the festival just as a viewer, you’d best be quick, as seats are limited to just 100. Make that 98, as KS has nabbed one pair of tickets for a reader giveaway – see how to grab them opposite! Once you’ve bought a seat, make sure you dust off your summer yukata. We Are One Japan wants as many people as possible to wear Japan’s traditional summer kimono on the day, so other Future Shorts fans around the world will see some of the local flavor in event photographs. Along with a ripe picking of international short films, one free drink is included in the ¥2,000 entry fee. Best bring your thirst, as all drinks sold on the night will go to an organisation called Beers for Books. For every drink bought, Beers for Books donates ¥100 to Room to Read, a charity that supports education and literacy to children worldwide. “We hope that people will contribute to a good cause while enjoying the event, and making new friends,” explained Tong. The movies change every season to keep audiences coming back, and Tong is looking forward to seeing the Korean movie, Guest, this time around. He adds: “We are definitely planning to hold another Future Shorts Festival in the future, and we’re hoping to bring it to Osaka and Kobe too.”

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Free Stuff!

na reader can wi One lucky KS festival. the to ts ke tic pair of name w email your To enter the dra ansaiscene.com @k to: giveaways rk the subject by Aug 17. Ma s’. ‘Future Short

Future Shorts Kyoto • When: Sunday 26th August • Time: 6:30pm–10pm • Venue: Art Complex, Kyoto www.artcomplex.net/ac1928/access • Admission: ¥2,000 which includes one free drink (Students: ¥1,500) • Reservation required: This event is limited to 100 seats. Tickets must be reserved in advance online and participants must register by email.

Further information: • Email: futureshortskansai@gmail.com • Tickets: www.weareonejapan.com • Learn more: www.futureshorts.com / www.beersforbooks.com

What’s showing? A run-down of films you might see at the festival – note the selection is subject to change

Street Vendor Cinema

A winner at Tampere Film Festival, this experimental documentary was inspired by the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, and describes the effect of conflict in geographical spaces.

house to find her two little kids. Winner of the 2012 International Grand Prix at Clermont-Ferrand, this is a beautifully acted comingof-age portrayal of emotions, from Korean National University of Arts’ film program.

2011 Clarissa Knoll Brazil, 15 mins

Notes On Biology

A travelling producer sells production filmmaking on demand in the busiest shopping street of Brazil. The outcome is an extraordinary mix of genres, from a samurai epic to a family melodrama, all born out of popular fantasy shaped amid the market’s chaos.

2011 Will Madden USA, 6 mins

A Morning Stroll

This stop-motion animation was the winner of Best Short at SXSW. A very clever short film by Ornana Films, it follows a student’s imagination during a Biology class.

2012 Grant Orchard UK, 7 mins

We Will Become Oil

Ga Eun-Yoon South Korea, 20 mins

2011 Mihai Grecu Romania, 6 mins

A teenager, angry at her father’s affair, barges into his mistress’

Guest

Created by Studio AKA, a multiBAFTA winning company, Grant Orchard’s A Morning Stroll is the story of an encounter between a New Yorker and a chicken. Told over three acts spanning over 100 years, this incredibly successful animated short has already won a BAFTA and a Jury Award at

Sundance and was nominated for a Short Animated Film Oscar.

Je t’aime John Wayne 2000 Toby MacDonald UK, 10 mins

This first film from director Toby MacDonald and producer Luke Morris has been a hit at film festivals around the world. It was BAFTA nominated and won the European Film Award for Best Short in 2001. Shot in 35mm in black and white, it stars Kris Marshall (Love Actually, Four Feathers) and Camilla Rutherford (Gosford Park, The Darjeeling Limited).

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene Classifieds Place your own ad online at classifieds.kansaiscene.com Please note: Kansai Scene is not responsible for the content of communications made through either printed or online classified ads.

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Employment kids english teacher in

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Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

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inc in kobe looking for professional ft/pt teachers. Weekday evenings and weekend shifts available. Valid working visa needed. Pt from 2300/ lesson. Ft from 200,000/month. Contact jarod @ recruitment@ wingseikaiwa.comemail: recruitment@wingseikaiwa.com need extra work in august?

Located 3 min. Walk from nakamozu station on the midosuji line and nankai kouya, semboku line.(20 Min. From namba) for kids and adults for fridays and saturdays. (8/3,4,18,24,25,31)Proper visa and teaching experience required.Send cv and a recent photo to saka. 090 2114 5335Url: http://www.Sakai. Zaq.Ne.Jp/teddyemail: teddybear@ sakai.Zaq.Ne.Jp lessons of english hello!

I am a certified teacher of english. In osaka i have worked with adults, children. General and business english.I have also worked at leading english schools of japan.Group lesson: 3500 per studentprivate man to man lesson: 6000 lesson: 60 minosakatalk@yahoo.com NATIVE BUSINESS ENG INSTRUCTOR Immediately FT/

PT positions available for native Business Eng and/or Bus. skills trainer required in Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo. Currently interviewing for people local in these areas only.

Interviews are in Osaka and will be arranged in Tokyo. Send resume w/ availability by email to set up a mtg. Email: createltd@nifty.com

For Sale sayonara sale - must go

by 7/31! Everything available now! Leaving japan at the end of this month. Please see link: https://www. Facebook.com/media/set/?Set=a.10 151108805624882.497498.76010988 1&Type=1 Location: near kyobashi, osaka. Email: melissatelan@i. Softbank.Jp

sayonara sale nishinomiya fridgerator,

microwave/oven, washer, bed printer/scanner, turntables and mixer set, pc monitorall prices are negotiable and items must be picked up. Please message for details. Email: basswl77@gmail.com

hawaiian ukulele bought in feb 2011, from mele ukuele in

hawaii. A few scratches on the body but still in perfect working order. Comes with hard case and tuner. Was $440 (34,700 yen) altogether, selling for 20,000 yen or other negotiated price.Url: http://www. Meleukulele.com/shopeemail: philipliu88@gmail.com

ps3 for sale leaving japan and need to part with my ps3. Just under 2 years old, 160 gb. Looking to sell for 15,000 yen.Email: nikitamissiles@yahoo.com sayonara sale to sell in

kobe: tv 40” sharp full hd led model lc-40se1 40000¥ + wifi routeur nec warpstar aterm wr8370n 3000¥ + 2 larges futons (2people)4000¥ each + 1 large matress 7000¥. All 1 year old. Email: bazile.L@hotmail.com

tv led full hd 40 inch sharpto

sell in kobe: 40 inch led tv full hd from sharp model lc-40se1 bought 1 year ago only at yamada about 80,000¥ - price 40,000¥ available in kitano or sannomiya in its box. Email: bazile.L@hotmail.com

ipod dock onkyo only

y8.000Ipod dock by onkyo, compatible with ipod, ipod touch and iphone3g3/3gs and iphone4, have features like radio am/fm, cd player, alarm clock and snooze in great condition, video output, with remote control, bought for y30.000, Sale for only y8.000 Very affordable! Email for photo.Email: ceile25hoor@yahoo.com dj equipment for sale

technics sl 1200mk5vestax pcv275korg kp2price and details contactbasswl77@gmail.comemail: basswl77@gmail.com christmas tree for sale

selling 150cm, artificial tree. Decorations included. The tree is white, and the decorations are red, with three strands of non-blinking, white, battery-powered lights. Looking to sell everything for 1,000 yen, but if you’d like to talk about buying pieces, just ask. Nbuccia1(at) gmail.com meat pies hi if there is anyone

has the hankering for a good old ozzy meat pie in osaka. Look me up and i will tell you where you can get a jozpie. A homemade australian meat pie. There are also chicken and veggi pies on the menu. Try best pies in japan. Email: ausenglish@ gmail.com

scuba gear for sale seaquest

bcd lg, very good condition 2,000 yen, mares dive computer 1000 yen, tusa dive knives large and small 500 yen each, motomarine 35mm underwater camera w/wide angle, macro lenses, two strobes with arms 5,000 yen for all camera gear. Email: steve@seatraveler.com

oxford and longman kids

t/bkids english books for just 500 yen. All new and never used,oxford and longman also workbook avalible.Email: brucenz1@hotmail. com the bookwormin kyoto. Used books in japanese and

english in all kinds of subjects. For info. Anddirections please call 075-

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

465-0030 and leave a clear message. For book lovers only!Email: ways2heal@mbox.Kyoto-inet.Or.Jp for sale hitachi oven/ grill/microwave. Standing

fan. Metal shelves. Contemporary chair. Keyboard. Hairdryer. Vacuum cleaner. Rice cooker and scale for sale.Url: http://www. Magpiemisfits.com/for-saleemail: moniquegiannikos@gmail.com

single bed for sale selling

a twin bed with attached mattress base for 2,000 yen. Right now it’s in fukushima-ku in osaka city. Feel free to e-mail for photos if you’re interested!Email: cbuchaya@gmail. com

stationary bike like new

stationary exercise bike for sale. Looking to sell for 4,000 yen, but willing to negotiate. Very easy to disassemble and reassemble for transportation. Email for photos. Email: cbuchaya@gmail.com sayonara sale in osaka

citygas stove, twin-sized memory foam mattress, small folding table, twin bed, exercise bike, shoji ceiling light fixture, shoe rack, and shelving unit for sale near nodahanshin station. All must go! E-mail for details. I’ll consider all offers. Nbuccia1(at)gmail.com halloween supplies anyone want to sell/donate

some halloween supplies they have laying around to our kids party? Please contact oprime42(@)aol(dot) com with what you have!

wanted - taekwondo used

uniform hello! My name is enrique. I am looking for a used (but still in good condition) taekwondo itf uniform. I am not too tall, just 1.80 M.Please let me know if you can help methank you! Email: kyotospanish1@gmail.com

Computers computer table & chair for y2000computer table set with chair,

it is simple, can fit in a small room, it’s clean & looks like new! You can use it as table for study too.Email me for details and more pictures, pick up onlyhttp://www.Flickr.com/ photos/dewi_susivia/7185131645/ in/photostream/email: ceile25hoor@ yahoo.com canon printer for sale

jpy5,500. Canon pixus ip4930 inkjet printer in very good condition (original price was over 11,000 yen). Includes some ink in printer, power cable, usb cable, glossy photo paper and original box. Pickup from sakaisujihommachi. Please email me to arrange a pickup time and/or photo :)email: sakaisujihommachi@ gmail.com printer cable, smooth printer cable, mp 107, 1.5Meter,

dos/v computer; nec pc98-nx, new, asking only for 980yen (which i bought for 2310 yen, so off 1330yen); facilitates a better and quick connection betweeen the printer and the motherboard.Email: speak6up@yahoo.co.jp

mouse (brand new) brand

new m-wp2c5v ps/2, with wheels, maker: elecom, i bought it for 2980 yen, never been used, but asking for only 500yen. E-mail: speak6up@ yahoo.co.jp epson projector projector ( including big

to sell: scooter & bicycle

leaving japan soon, to sell : Scooter honda giorno; 5 500km price : ¥25 000. Bicycle price : ¥4 500 Email: soft116@msn.com

Giveaways free stuff! Useful items

given away and received everyday, all for free in kansai! Join us! Http://groups.Yahoo.com/group/ kansaifreecycle/ skincare safe enough to

eat! Are the toxins in japan eating your skin alive?Get the only all natural skincare that’s safe enough to eat! Delivered right to your door injapan! Grab your free five part skincare reportat: http://www.bestnatural-skincare-guide.com. giving away a prepaid

au phone i’m giving away an au prepaid type mobile phone with charger. Brand new looking. Come and get it for free.Url: http://www. Michaelsenglishschool.Jpemail: nilufer@michaelsenglishschool.Jp stuff for free and/or

trade hello.I have tons of stuff for free or trade. Follow this link for a complete list: http://osaka.Craigslist. Jp/zip/3107993026.Htmlurl: http:// osaka.Craigslist.Jp/zip/3email: xxjsxx@hotmail.com

screen 60 inches and iphone, ipad cables), epson dreamio emp-twd3 for sale. 45.000 Yen only.Menu also in english. You can connect your iphone or ipad, your pc, mac etc. A dvd player is built-incontact me for pictures and more info. Email: italiagiappone@me.com

good bye japan sale i

Vehicles

Language Exchange

honda super cub 50cc29600kms, big rear

case,v.Good cond,car licence ok,great runarounder, y29000,osaka,ph.08037704108 Url: http://img267.imageshack.us/img2 Email: mrbean_101@yahoo.com

am moving out of the country next month. Sofa bed, double bookshelf, toaser oven, dishes, x-box, desk, desk chair, dishes and more! Reasonable price. Pick up at nodahanshin (pink line). Email: tomorobojpn@gmail.com

toeic無料体験レッスン hello. I

have taught toeic in many japanese companies and universities. Well you can have free sample toeic lessons in kyoto before i start

the class. If you are interested in them, please contact me. Email: shinyama1972@gmail.com looking for exchange friend i’m looking for english

speaking partner. I’m japanese man, 33 years old, living in shin-osaka. Let’s study together,in some cafe or someplace,near osaka.I want to increase my oppotunities that i can use english.If you want to study japanese or japanese culture, please mail me. Email: kamkam1978@ mail.goo.ne.Jp japanese-english exchagei teach japanese

kanji,composition,language rules. You tune up my japanese. Let’s change languagein kobe.Email: wakinohama123@yahoo.co.jp looking for exchange friend looking for english or

german speaking partner.I’m japanese man andi hope i could help you in japanese or something. Let’s talk on skype or meet upin some cafe in kyoto or near there. Kenemail: kenkenpapa3@gmail.com english tutor 1400yen p/h sensyu english is a one to

one language tutor program using the latest technology to ensure fast cost effective results. Sensyu area: kishiwada, izumiotsu, sakai, izumisano. Url: http:// sensyuenglish.com Email: ray@ sensyuenglish.com

aikido classes aikido classes in english and japanese.

Kids classes from age three and up.Adult classes from 12 and up. Url: http://iaikido.comemail: anthony@iaikido.com japanese teacher wantednice british man

seeks a private japanese teacher in kyotoemail: ukguyjp@gmail.com

british female exchange looking for british female

to teach me british culture and language in Kobe. Will teach you japanese. Am japanese female. Contact me:

Kansai Scene magazine August 2012 kansaiscene.com

britscultureexchange2727@hotmail. com exchange friendsi am a

japanese korean malel 40yrs living in higashi osaka and i am looking for many exchange friends from other english- speaking countries. I am also glad to help you learn japanese or korean if interested. Email: karintoprince@yahoo.com english-japanese in osakakobe !Friendly american man

is looking for a japanese languageexchange partner in umeda, and sometimes in kobe. Lets speak in japanese and be good friends! Email: exchange-in-umeda@ whoever.com

native english classes kyoto relaxed one on one classes

tailored to your needs. Do you want to travel? Make friends? Get ahead at work? I can help you improve your english. Experienced esl teacher, masters degree, experience with children and adults. Close to kitaoji station. 2500 Yen and hour. Email: laurenhadler@gmail.com

please be informed that

let me know if you would like to improve your japanese abilities. I’ll be able to support your study if you determine to start it in umeda. If there is anything that i can assist you, please feel free to contact me. I will look forward to hearing from you. Your sincerely, email: aiming2004jp@yahoo.co.jp exchange conversation coffee shop english

conversation in umeda. Mature british english teacher. Only 1,000 yen per hour. Mail andy for an appointment. All levels welcome. Thanks!Email: bournvillestudios@ yahoo.com let’s do language exchange! I and my friends(jf)

are looking for language exchange partner. Let’s study together in osaka. Any level is ok!!Email: rimim@hotmail.com

kansai friends a group

where people meet regularly, talk to each other, make friends, if you wanna be part of it send a friends request.Or search on your smart phone fb application byneil osakaurl: http://www. Facebook.com/kansaifriendsemail: kansaifriends@facebook.com

Pets kitten for adoption approx 8 week old orange tabby

male kitten up for adoption. Very lively and playful. Gets along well with other cats. Litter box trained. Please contact for adoption details. Email: lafaver.Judith@gmail.com

please help & adopt a cat

beautiful souls seeking loving homes. All sorts of kittens & adults.

Can’t foster? You can donate/ volunteer! Http://www.Satoyaboshu.Net/keisai/c2-152183.Html enter your e-address in the box near the bottom, then press the blue 実行 button to contact. Now you can make a difference!

Friendship looking for assertive woman wm, 39, seeking western

woman or a woman with extensive experience living abroad. Must be intelligent, assertive, open-minded, positive, and down-to-earth, with a passion and zest for life. Being a good conversationalist with a nice sense of humor is also important. Email: sukiyanen@ymail.com

sapiosexual seeks soulmateshy, quiet,

introverted caucasian woman with a wide variety of interests seeks someone to connect with on various levels on a deeper level but primarily intellectual. I look forward to your e-mail. Whityumeda at gmail dot comemail: whityumeda@gmail.com are you smart humor

intellig wf?Nice, sweet, smart, funny sci-minded of very unique indivdual seeks a sweet western woman for friend & more to enjoy life, good times. The more she be smart, openminded, smart, the better for us to get along well; for harmonious relationship &longer;commitment.Email: benzene98@hotmail.com

lonely housewife eng. Lesson us expd male teacher

has lived in hawaii,seattle and san fran. Ca. Let’s talk- movies,music or any topic. First 30 mins. Is free!! Group or private! First 30 mins. Is free!! Group or private! I’m waiting for your email....Contact serioussensei@gmail.com

aussie guy seeking genki

jfhi there, i am an aussie guy in goldcoast seeking a fun genki jf travelling to oz or wanting to travel here to meet up, have fun, see some sites and ya never know, chemistry might be just right????? Dont be shy, send me an email, i am missing japan and would love to meet jf again. Ja ne ~email: koalaoz1@ hotmail.com jf friend needed hi, are you free and need a friend ? Please write to me. Let’s enjoy summer have fun doing different things around kansai. Japanese female only please. Little english ok. Hope to hear from you soon.Email: bigapple77743@ yahoo.com european hello i am 25yrs

old european man looking for japanese female in age 20-45 for discret meetings. Email:mazijppl@ yahoo.co.jp

any vegetarian/fruitarian ladies interested in meeting

like-minded man? Then don’t hesitate to contact veggie-man. Age and nationality not important. Earth-minded ladies a plus.Email: ways2-heal@mbox.Kyoto-inet.Or.Jp

looking for a true

looking for single man hi ,

i am looking for friend and possibly more if we like each other (not just having good time or fwb. I’ll tell you more when i reply you :)thank you email: kobune28@gmail.com

gentleman wf nice looking 40’s want meet a mature gentleman in good position for honest .I’m european, blonde, i like music, books and travel.Only good persons, pls.Email: saraspspsp@yahoo.co.jp

hello from kyoto !I am a

geek 25yo wf looking for

mid-aged japanese man from kyoto seeking a nice and warm woman for frienship or may be more whose age and nationality is not so important to me ! Please free to contact my email address at km2012327@gmail. com! meet friends who live in

japancikciak is the new social network where you can meet friends who shares your passions around the world.Meet new friends that share your interest. Open a free web store. Zero fees!!Http://www. Cikciak.com/url: http://cikciak. comemail: dwayne@cikciak.com

looking for friend in kobe hi! I’m jf in my 40’s, happilymarried looking for open-minded friends to have a chat over coffee/ lunch in sannnomiya area/nearby.I live in fukuoka but visit sannnomiya very often.Japanese or non-japanese welcome.Email: ivie_green312@ yahoo.co.jp

open-minded young person for language exchange and to go out for lighthearted fun based on our hobbies. I like heavy metal, electronic music, live shows, jap anime and manga, videogames, martial arts, cosplay and dogs. I speak jap/eng/russian and portuguese.Url: http://www. Facebook.com/ukiyou

discreet encounters married wm looking for married

j/w female for discreet encounters and long lasting . If fell the same way i do drop me an email and let’s see what happens.Email: mike_ rinko@yahoo.com scuba divingshall we go

scuba diving to wakayama ?Please contact me if you would like to join. Email: matsuurahideo@hotmail. com looking for a sweetheart

!Italian-american man seeks a girl to go out for a chat and tea. Lets get to know each other and have a

romantic time together. Maybe we are a good match. Email: kisses@ california.Usa.com looking for a chubby

girl european boy is looking for a chubby girl. If you want to share time together just email me . Email: benoitmartinjp@gmail.com looking for girl friend

i am 26 yrs american visiting on business purpose and staying for 2 months. Looking for some nice girl company..Going around japan..I can help...Hangout, chat..Etc..Pl.Reply. At loverazalia@yahoo.comemail: loverazalia@yahoo.com looking for a lesbian

friendnew zealand nice gay looking for a lesbian friend to share ideas and exchange culture. Let’s be friend and have funs. I am 45 years old and live in osaka. Email: verygay10@ hotmail.com looking for girlfriend hi i am a 26 years old foreigner .

I am looking for a girlfriend who can accompany me to nice places . I am sincere and would like to have long relationship . Can speak japanese also . Drop me a mail at lovejapan47@gmail.com

gay friend wanted a

23-year-old gay,cute,calm,serious japenese university student living in amagasaki is seeking goodlooking, well-trained gay friends in kansai.I learn english and french. I love reading, dress designs,and the internet.Email: ctfdq374@yahoo. co.jp looking for a friend

micheal i have lost your email address. Please get back to me i need you.John email: behrooz66@ hotmail.com good friends i am 40yrs japanese-korean national(male) living in higashi-osaka and i ma looking for many good friends who can get together and have fun together through language excahnge and in english and korean ,japanese.Please drop me a line if interested.Email: karintoprince@ yahoo.com looking partner for long

term hello i search a partner for the long terme only im 40 years old french good loocking married but separeted .I m loocking for deep relation at osaka .Woman married or separated welcome but please no player i need only a serious relation .I speak english and japanese email: mermazj@yahoo.com

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Go cra

zy!

Printed on easy-peel art-tac sticker paper and laminated with a super glossy coating for durability, our stickers are a fun promotional tool. Order round or square sticker printing from Mojoprint throughout July and get a massive 30% OFF! Applicable to all sizes and quantities. Just enter the promo code: KS147STICKY when placing your order online at mojoprint.jp. Offer valid from July 1st - Aug 31st 2012.

050-5805-6312 or 06-6539-1717 Email

Fax

info@mojoprint.jp

06-6539-1718

Business hours

Mon-Fri 09:00 - 18:00

Address 550-0013 Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F

To see our complete product range, check our data requirements and download layout templates, please see Mojoprint.jp.