Kansai Scene #178 March 2015 by Kansai Scene Magazine

Kansai’s Monthly Living Guide • Articles • Events • Classifieds • Maps + much more

March 2015 • issue 178

The “White Heron” Castle Reborn 生まれ変わった白鷺城 Gearing Up for Sumo The Return of Juso’s Tommy Town Quench your thirst in our Craft Beer Corner

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Inside this Issue 08

Kansai Scene provides monthly English articles, information and listings for visitors and residents of the Kansai area.

Himeji Castle Reopens After a five-year restoration, Himeji Castle will this month reopen to the public. Feature

Publisher/Creative Director........Daniel Lee Editor..................................Celia Polkinghorne Sub-editor..................................... Jason Haidar

Accounts Manager...................... Michiko Lee Art............................................... Deanna Wright

Live Music................................. Phillip Jackson Club................................................... Terumi Tsuji Classifieds..............................Michael Gribben

General

Editorial editor@kansaiscene.com Advertising sales@kansaiscene.com 06-6539-1717

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06-7635-4791

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Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Mojoworks KK

A BIT OF HISTORY Kansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011.

Craft Beer Corner

This new section will keep you up-to-date with the latest news and events in Kansai’s craft beer scene. Text: Jason Haidar

Foodspotting We found three pit stop places that are sure to hit the spot while visiting Himeji Castle. Text: Sarasa Kitano

Listen up! Back-to-school expressions to prepare you for the new term in the classroom.

If you would like to write for KS, please contact editor@kansaiscene.com after reviewing our writers guidelines: kansaiscene.com/write-for-us

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.

Text: John Gunning

Food & Drink

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Sumo makes its return to Kansai for the annual March tournament in Osaka.

Food & Drink

Text: Daniel Smith

Sumo Returns to Osaka

Feature

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Tommy Town – One Year On

Business Matters

Event & Festival..........................Yuki Uchibori

Contact Kansai Scene

Text: Jason Haidar

Tommy Town – rebuilding after the fire that devastated the Juso neighborhood one year ago.

Production Manager...................Misa Matsui

Film Reviews..................................Adam Miller

Bilingual 日本語付

Language

Text: Kansai Scene

What’s on Around Kansai Film p22 Events & Festivals

p25

Art

p30

Live Music

p32

Club

p36

Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Classifieds p40

Photo © Jason Haidar

About Kansai Scene

COVER PHOTO: This month’s cover photo was taken by Jason Haidar at the newlyrestored Himeji Castle.

Maps p44

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Out & About

Got some news? Email your suggestions to editor@kansaiscene.com

Nipponbashi Street Festa offers the budding photographer an amazing opportunity to grab some candid snaps of Osaka’s cosplay extravaganza. Head down to Nipponbashi on March 21 (Sat) to join the fun. Photo by Jason Haidar.

Craft Beer Bars Mushrooming Across Kansai Kansai’s thirst for craft beer shows no signs of abating with new spots popping up every month. Kitahama’s Yellow Ape Craft is opening a second location near Namba OCAT on March 14th. Smoke House Ape will serve smoked food as well as craft beers, and as a real bonus, it will have a no-smoking policy. facebook.com/smokehouseape

On March 25th, Craft Beer Base is opening a restaurant/bar in the basement of the Dai-1 bldg in Umeda called Craft Beer Base BUD. Following the success of its satellite bottle shop Craft Beer Seed in the Hanshin Department Store, BUD will serve food and coffee as well as eight taps of craft beer goodness. facebook.com/CraftBeerBaseBud

Golden Week on the Beach? If you haven’t yet holidayed in Thailand, start planning now! In-Villa Luxuries sells and rents villas on the tropical island of Koh Samui. Although Golden Week is high season for Japanese outbound tourism, it’s considered low season in Thailand, despite the weather being great. IVL is offering gorgeous villas at low-season prices while hosting special events, boat cruises and a trip to the famous Full Moon Party. Check (invillaluxuries.com) for more details on available villas, excursions, and watersports on the island, and contact Sanjay at GS Travel (gs-travel.com) for the best deals possible on air tickets and travel insurance.

Osaka Kawaii!! 2015 Grab your cameras and head to Amemura in Shinsaibashi on Saturday March 28th for the Osaka Kawaii festival. In a celebration of all things “kawaii”, this free event promises an overload of cutesy good times. There’ll be fashion shows, live concerts, a street parade, beauty parlors, talk shows, and workshops. You can buy kawaii items, dress in kawaii clothes, snap kawaii models, and even eat kawaii food. The various events span the entire Amemura area. Check website for specifics. ok15.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/en

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene New Year Party Our January party was held at the underground Wormwood lounge in Horie and featured funky tunes, enthusiatic dancing, and the unveling of our new KS tshirt. Check out our Facebook and Meetup pages for details of upcoming parties.

Party Report

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

The White Heron Spreads its Wings At last, after a restoration project spanning five years, the iconic Himeji Castle is reopening to the public in full. That it has survived at all, however, is quite the tale of luck. Text & Images: Jason Haidar • Translation: Endo Tazlu

 Himeji Castle is predicted to welcome a whopping two million visitors this year after its post-restoration reopening on March 27th. Perched upon a hill where its towers can be seen for miles, the picturesque fortress is nicknamed Shirasagi-jo ("White Heron Castle") or Hakuro-jo ("White Egret Castle") because of its brilliant, white exterior and unique tower structuring. It wields a commanding view of the city and leaves a lasting impression on all who journey to see it. Film aficionados will instantly recognize it from the James Bond movie You only Live Twice (1967), and from Akira Kurosawa's Kagemusha (1980), and Ran (1985). This World Heritage Site is the epitome of the feudal Japanese castle and the largest, best-preserved of all

its counterparts across the nation. The newly-restored structure is truly a sight to behold, but the stories of how this now national treasure survived multiple demolition plans, earthquakes, and even a World War II bomb are as surprising as the castle is enchanting.

History and Style

Himeji Castle itself has gone through many incarnations dating back to 1333, being rebuilt and remodeled by various daimyo (feudal lords). The current form we see today is over 400 years old. After the the pivotal battle of Sekigahara in 1600, which saw power shift to Tokugawa Ieyasu and the eventual beginnings of the Edo Period (1603–1868), Ieyasu awarded the castle to his son-in-law, Ikeda Terumasa. In

1601 Terumasa overhauled the castle and rebuilt it completely, finishing it in 1609. The new fortress was in the nowiconic Azuchi-Momoyama style. The new design was in response to the introduction of firearms in Japan in 1543. It is distinctively characterized by a musha-gaeshi (large stone base), with large, complex maru (baileys) and a daitenshu (main keep). These changes gave significant protection and tactical advantage to the daimyo and their armies. Himeji-jo is the perfect personification of this design, standing today as the finest example of 17th-century Japanese architecture. It is a designated kokuhou (a national treasure of Japan) and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

In 1869, the government auctioned the castle off and a man named Mr. Kanbe bought it for 23-anda-half yen. A bargain even in those days, the amount is estimated at around ¥200,000 in today's currency.

Structure and Defenses

As formidable as it is elegant, Himeji Castle was built incorporating a plethora of tricks and defensive structures. One of the keys to the castle's defenses is its elaborate maze system, which possesses many disorienting pathways. With 84 gates (21 of which still exist) and three moats (only the inner moat exists now) working in tandem with the baileys and outer walls, an enigmatic labyrinth was created that is known to still confuse tourists today, even with signs posted! One deceptive gate in particular gives the appearance that the main tower is very close, when in fact following the path that winds through it takes you away from the main keep. Conversely, another gate provides a

correct pathway to the central tower, but will deceive an unwitting visitor by seemingly taking them down and away from it. Roughly 1,000 sama (loopholes) are littered around the castle for archers and armed guards with matchlocks to harass any would-be intruders, as well as a variety of ishiotoshi (angled chutes) from which stones or boiling water could be cast down on the enemy. This explains why, in its more than 400year history, no one dared to attack Himeji Castle.

The Lucky Castle

At least three strokes of mighty good luck have fallen upon Himeji Castle at crucial points in its past when circumstances almost rendered it solely to the

history books – torn down, demolished, or bombed into non-existence. The ushering in of the new Meiji Period (1868–1912) signaled the end of the significance of Japanese castles. During the Meiji era, surviving castles were considered great burdens to upkeep because of the cost. The government also wanted these prestigious symbols of the former regime to be removed and forgotten, ordering all castles to be sold and demolished. Many castles were torn down and Himeji Castle was slated to share this same fate. In 1869, the government auctioned the castle off and a man named Mr. Kanbe bought it for 23-and-a-half yen. A bargain even in those days, the amount is estimated at around

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

¥200,000 in today's currency. He was a developer and planned to clear the land, but found it was too expensive to level the giant castle. “The white heron turned into a white elephant,” joked volunteer guide Kenji Miyazaki. The castle narrowly escaped destruction again a few years later in 1871. During this year, some of the corridors and gates were leveled to make room for modern military barracks, and there were plans to expand these on the castle grounds. If not for the last-minute intervention of Colonel Nakamura Shigeto, who convinced the army chief to leave it, the castle would have been torn down. Himeji-jo escaped ruin yet again during World War II when Himeji was heavily bombed with much of the city being destroyed. A fire bomb was dropped directly on Himeji Castle, and somehow, the bomb did not go off. This White Heron Castle prevailed once more while so much around it perished. The castle even stood up to the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995, receiving very little damage. “Despite it being such a powerful earthquake, even the bottle of sake on the altar at the top floor remained in place. The sake was an offering to the gods, so the gods’ sake was OK," Mr. Miyazaki smiled. Who says you only live twice? 

The latest restoration project, the Heisei Restoration, began in October 2009 concentrating on roof replacement, re-applying the white plaster, and installing anti-seismic reinforcement. At ¥2.3 billion (Himeji city putting up roughly ¥805 million (35%) with the rest coming from the government), no expense has been spared. The main focus has been on protecting and preserving cultural assets.

Getting There Himeji Castle’s main keep will be opened to the public from Fri, Mar 27 • Access: JR Himeji Stn, Central Exit, 10-min walk • Admission: (From Mar 27) Adults ¥1,000, Kids ¥300 • Open: 9:00am–4:00pm (gate closes at 5:00pm) • Tel: 07-9285-1146 himejicastle.jp

生まれ変わった白鷺城 5年余り続いた「平成の修理」を終え、ついに姫路城が一般公開の日を迎える。この美しい城郭は、奇跡のような幸運の導きで幾多の危機を生き延びてきた。文と写真：ジェイソン・ハイダー • 翻訳：遠藤建

修復工事明けの再公開となる3月27日以降、姫路城は今年だけで 200万人もの来客を見込んでいいる。丘の上に建ち、何キロも先から威容が望める天下の名城。端麗な姿、明るい白壁、ユニークな天守閣の構造から、「白鷺城」の異名をとっている。街を見下ろす城の姿は、訪れた者すべての脳裏に焼き付けられるだろう。映画ファンなら、ジェームズ・ボンドの『007は二度死ぬ』（1967年）や、黒澤明の『影武者』（1980年）と『乱』（1985年）などを思い出すかもしれない。世界遺産に登録され、封建時代の日本式城郭の象徴として、その規模も保存状況の良さも他の城の追随を許さない。修復された姫路城に一見の価値があるのはもちろんだが、その運命もまた劇的だ。解体計画、地震、第2次世界大戦での爆撃など、幾多の危機を生き延びてきた激動の歴史があるのだ。

歴史と様式

1333年の建設以来、姫路城は当時の大名によって何度か再建されて様式も変化している。現在の姿になったのは400年以上前のこと。1600年に関ヶ原の戦いで天下を取った徳川家康は、次女の夫にあたる池田輝政に播磨国を譲った。輝政は1601年に姫路城

の大改修に着手し、1609年に完成を見る。これが安土桃山様式で建てられた現代の姫路城である。新しい姫路城の建築様式は、1543年に銃が渡来したことを踏まえて設計された。武者返しと呼ばれる巨大な石垣がひとつの特徴で、複雑な構造を持つ大天守などの建物から構成される。この改築で、大名と武士たちは防衛力を戦略的に増強した。姫路城は17世紀の日本建築を現代に伝える象徴として国宝に指定され、1993年にはユネスコ世界遺産にも登録されている。

構造と防衛力

畏敬の念さえ抱かせる優美な城内には、手の込んだ防御設備が数多く採用されている。城内の構造で重要なのは、余所者が行き先を見失うように設計された複雑な迷路システムだ。門は84箇所（うち 21箇所が現存）、堀は3箇所（現存は内堀のみ）。城内は天守群や外壁を中心に不思議な迷宮が形作られ、案内の標識があっても現代の観光客を迷わせるほどである。門からして、人を欺くようにできている。天守閣の間近に見える門をくぐると、通路はくねくねと曲がって城の中心から遠ざけられ

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

1869年、政府が姫路城を競売にかけると、神戸清次郎という男が 23円50銭で落札した。これは当時としても破格の安値で、現在の貨幣価値でわずか 20万円ほどだ。 Undergoing reconstruction 1956

る。逆に、天守閣にすんなり行ける門もある。しかしその門から続く道は、一見すると城を下りて天守閣から遠ざかっていくように錯覚させられるのだ。また城全体には、射撃用に作られたおよそ千個の「狭間（さま）」という窓が張り巡らされ、恐ろしい火縄銃が配備されている。侵入者に頭上から石や熱湯を浴びせる、さまざまな形状の「石落とし」もある。これなら400年以上もの間、姫路城の攻略を試みた者がいないのも当然だ。

幸運な名城

そんな姫路城にも、崩壊、解体、爆撃などによって消え去り、歴史書だけの存在になってしまいそうな状況が何度かあった。ぎりぎりの危機から救い出された幸運は、少なくとも今までに3回ある。明治時代になると、日本の城はみな崖っぷちに追いやられた。前時代の遺物は、保存コストだけがかかる無用の長物と見なされたのである。古い封建体制の象徴である城を、取り払って忘れさせたい。そう考えた日本政府は、廃城令を出してすべての城の解体または売却を命じた。日本中で城が破壊され、姫路城にも同じ運命が待ち構えていた。 1869年、政府が姫路城を競売にかけると、神戸清次郎という男が23円50銭で落札した。これは当時としても破格の安値で、現在の貨幣価値でわずか20万円ほどだ。土地の開発業者だった彼はここを更地にしたかったが、この巨城を解体するには莫大な費用がかかることに気づいた。「白鷺が白象になったというわけですよ」と、ボランティアで姫路城のガイドを務める宮崎健二さんが冗談を言う。

1871年、姫路城は再び絶体絶命のピンチを免れることになる。近代的な兵舎を建てるため、この年にいくつかの門と通路が取り壊された。もし中村重遠大佐が最後に介入して城を存置するよう陸軍を説得していなければ、姫路城は解体の憂き目にあっていたことだろう。さらに姫路城は、第2次世界大戦で姫路市がほぼ壊滅するほどの激しい爆撃を受けたときにも、廃墟となるのを免れた。爆弾は姫路城の上に直接落とされたが、どういうわけか不発弾となったのだ。麗しき白鷺城は、街が滅亡しつつある最中で、またしても奇跡的に生き延びたのである。 1995年の阪神大震災でも、城の被害は最小限のものに留まった。「あれだけの強い揺れだったのに、最上階の祭壇に置かれた酒瓶さえ倒れずに済みました。お神酒は神様への捧げ物だから、ご加護があったのでしょうか」と、宮崎さんは笑う。この城には、いったいいくつの命があるのだろう。

2009年10月に始まった「平成の修理」では、屋根の修理、漆喰の塗り直し、耐震補強に重点が置かれた。23億円の予算全額（姫路市が約8億円を拠出し、残りを日本政府が負担）が修理に費やされている。修理の主な目的は、文化財の保全である。

行き方姫路城の主要部分は、3月27日（金）から一般公開される。

• アクセス：JR姫路駅中央口から徒歩10分

• 入場料：大人1,000円、子供300円（3 月27日より）

• 開館時間：午前9:00～午後4:00（午後5:00閉門）

• 電話：07-9285-1146 himejicastle.jp

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Photo: Shigeru Morita

Feature

The Plight of Tommy Town Last March, fire ravaged 39 businesses in a neighborhood known and loved for its cheery culture, and boozy alleyways. A year on, shop by shop, Tommy Town is coming back to life. Text: Daniel Smith • Images: Sarah Smith & Shigeru Morita

 On the dawn of March 7th, 2014, a burning cigarette was carelessly discarded outside an izakaya in the cozy, Osakan drinking district of Juso’s “Tommy Town”. Embers caught tinder, and soon flames were spreading up the alleyway, feeding on restaurants and bars. Heat shattered the windows and fried the machinery of buildings on the other side of the alley’s walkway. As the sun rose, so did the fire, looming over the main plaza, lapping at Hankyu Juso Station’s west gates. Kevin O’Shea, formally a local teacher, recalls “the school area being filled with smoke and helicopters everywhere.” O’Shea, a popular expat vlogger, raced towards the chaos, capturing the experience on video. Emergency personnel halted O’Shea’s investigation 100 yards short of the fire. He was left filming amongst

other onlookers, fretting from afar over the continuous eruption of smoke from the center of Tommy Town. No one was hurt, largely due to the early hour, but Tommy Town was left in ruin. Thirty-nine Tommy Town businesses burned; more than a third of the Tommy Town Store Association, many to ashes, many uninsured. Shortly thereafter, a structural collapse compounded the damage, leaving the surviving stores along its lessdamaged side, as well as Juso Station’s west gates, inaccessible for months. Customer attrition followed, and then the loss of employees. The personalities of Tommy Town began to vanish, leaving the salvage of the neighborhood’s structure and spirit to the handful who remembered its boozy beginnings. Hachiro Nakata, six-year leader of the Juso

Tommy Town Store Association and 35-year owner of the popular Kiyasu sweets company, has endeavored to be a conduit from past to present for Tommy Town. Nakata’s father established Kiyasu in 1947, when Tommy Town was springing from the rubble of WWII, largely as a collection of ramshackle eateries and izakayas. Establishments were thrown together without permits, primarily of wood, and huddled closely (factors that contributed to the fire’s spread). Bathrooms were a non-existent luxury. With all the cheap alcohol being consumed, the neighborhood earned the nickname Shoben Yokocho “Piss Alley” for its high volume of public urination. Though Tommy Town eventually fell in line with the law and built bathrooms, its legacy of back-alley

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Tommy Town commemorated its beginnings with a statue of a boy, named Tommy, smirking as he pees in shameless nudity, presumably not in a toilet. Tommy Town themed T-shirts.

antics and its status as Osaka’s dive bar alternative endured the decades. Never ashamed of its past, in 2008, Tommy Town commemorated its beginnings with a statue of a boy, named Tommy, smirking as he pees in shameless nudity, presumably not in a toilet. Nakata casts Tommy Town in an unpretentious light, laughing and admitting “not high class restaurants, but you could feel at ease to enter.” I went to visit Nakata, now 69 years old, meeting him in Tommy Town’s main plaza just outside of Kiyasu, which was spared the flames of almost a year ago. Nakata watched pensively, letting a sprightly circus tune from nearby fill in his silences. I was skeptical of the supposed decline in business and atmosphere, noting the people queuing up for his traditional sweets and bustling through the plaza, or stopping to take pictures with Tommy (his nakedness affectionately covered with a small cape for the frigid holiday season). Nakata, perhaps sensing my doubt, lead me from the plaza’s throng, veering down the burned alleyway. The alley’s left-hand side was dotted with red-cheeked store owners hanging out of their stores, several only recently reopened. The row is blighted by as many barred stores as operating storefronts, some still charred. The

Remnants of a sushi restaurant after the fire.

right-hand side is only an expanse of dirt and blackened floors. “It is more quiet, less lively, less people … even now at the end of the year,” Nakata says. Nakata and the other store owners have been exhaustive in their campaign to resuscitate the heart of Tommy Town. Nakata reached out to donors like Mizuho and resident comedian “Masa,” of the comedy duo Tommys, to raise more than ¥16 million. The popular Juso club “Fandango” joined the fundraising through the sales of neighborhood-themed merchandise like t-shirts labelled “Drunk again … Juso”. The merchandise, as well as street donations, raised ¥14 million and demonstrated that Tommy Town can still be a profitable draw for locals. The combined ¥30 million was used to cover the costs of hauling the debris, laying the groundwork for the association’s next challenge; rebuilding. Many want the reconstruction of the stores to stay true to their original likeness by using wood as the main building material and maintaining the original floor space. The government, though, is pushing for concrete or iron, which are far less susceptible to fire. Furthermore, the original buildings violate zoning laws by encroaching too far into the alleyway.

Nakata keeps pictures of his family in his office next to the video monitoring system he uses to watch over Tommy Town. It’s as though they’re all part of his family. He points to an early photograph of his father and speaks affectionately of him, “I am number two,” a reminder that he’s carrying a legacy. He points to a younger man in the office, engrossed in computers since we entered. “My son is number three.” His son looks up and laughs. Then Nakata shows me a picture of himself with his son and his grandson. “Maybe number four.” Nakata may not seem bold, but his quiet resolve is stirring. Under his leadership, five stores have reopened and 15 more are set to reopen following the fire’s first anniversary. But Nakata is more concerned with the distance left to go. He took me to stand amid the charred ruins, 70 years after the war, reduced to rubble again. He nods slowly to himself, “This is a very high mountain to climb, like Everest. But this is my destiny.” 

Why Tommy? The kanji characters used to form Juso (十 jū - meaning ten) and (三 sō - meaning three), can also be read as To - Mi. Tommy. Got it?

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Feature

Kansai – The Birthplace of Sumo, its Wrestlers, and their Careers The yearly March tournament in Osaka sees the return of sumo to its birthplace, Kansai, where many wrestlers, foreign and Japanese, have gotten their start. Text & Images: John Gunning

 This month, grand champion Hakuho Sho returns to Osaka, a city where, as a scrawny 16-year-old, he made his debut. Now, 14 years, 80 kilograms, and a record 33 top-division titles later, the yokozuna from Mongolia leads the 650 wrestlers of the Japan Sumo Association back to Kansai, the place where sumo originated. The spring tournament will run from March 8th to 22nd at Bodymaker Colosseum in Namba. Osaka will also see the official debut of Brodik Henderson, the first wrestler from Canada since John Tenta more than 30 years ago. Tenta started his career with 21 straight wins and three lower-division championships before quitting sumo suddenly to become a pro-wrestler. Despite going on to later fame and fortune in the WWF, he left behind an image of Canadians being soft and unable to handle the sumo lifestyle.

Three decades later, when many stables were first approached about taking the young British Columbia native, his predecessor’s name and hasty departure was one of the first points of concern raised. Henderson is hoping to change the negative impression of his countrymen and last a lot longer than the six months Tenta did. “Right now I’m overwhelmed because this has all happened so fast, but we all have to grow up at some point and I want to take advantage of this great opportunity. I just want to do my best and work hard even when I am tired and keep pushing and pushing because in the end that’s really what’s going to make you the best you can be,” he said determinedly. The sumo association’s rules about foreigners having to skip their first tournament to concentrate on learning the language and culture means Henderson won’t be on the dohyo this time,

but it’s likely he will be in the arena helping his stablemaster Nishikido. He’s only been in the country since early February and pretty soon will be too famous to approach, so if you see a 201-centimeter, 160-kilogram guy with long, curly hair wandering around, now’s your chance to say “hi”. Like Henderson and Hakuho, more than half of all current wrestlers first set foot in the ring in “the nations kitchen,” meaning a trip to the former Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium will let you see the stars of the future take their first tentative steps towards fame and glory. Adding to the excitement and intensity is the fact that over 100 wrestlers are actually from Kansai and all are naturally keen to do well in their home tournament. “Compared to other tournaments Osaka is much louder and I can get really worked up before a bout,” said Terutsuyoshi Shoki (20), a Hyogo

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Above: Terutsuyoshi Shoki, 20, a young wrestler from Hyogo. Right: Brodik Henderson. Bottom: Tomisakae

native who would be on the cusp of promotion to the paid ranks with a good showing in Osaka. “The voices that have been familiar from childhood and the air thick with the smells of food that I love create the best atmosphere for doing sumo,” added Terutsuyoshi’ stablemate Tomisakae Ryutaro (22) who hails from Kobe. Tomisakae and Terutsuyoshi both started their sumo lives in their home region but Osaka has also seen the birth of Tongan, Brazilian, and Georgian sumo careers. Egyptian, Osunaarashi Kintaro, also had his start here six months after he joined the sumo world. The delay was due to paperwork and the policy of foreignborn wrestlers missing their first tournament. Despite chomping at the bit to get going he, like most people, was instantly enamoured with the food and the people calling them “so funny and friendly.” Hometown interest at the top end of the rankings is mainly focused on two competitors; ozeki Goeido Gotaro, who narrowly avoided losing his rank with a win on the last day of the January tournament; and heartthrob Ikioi Shota, who had a spectacularly bad showing in January going 1-14. Both are 28 years old and probably at or near their peak. Kansai may not have many wrestlers at the top of the

rankings but the area’s connections to the sport run deep. Yamato (in present-day Nara) was the site of the first-ever sumo bout which ended with Nominosukue kicking his opponent Taimanokehaya to death. The Japanese word for the supporters of sumo whose generosity helps keep the stables open is tanimachi, taken from the area of the city where a famous doctor once treated wrestlers’ many ailments for free. Nine out of ten sumo wrestlers are unpaid, struggling in the sport’s feudal-like system, trying to make it to the promised land of the top two divisions where they will receive a salary and (relative) freedom. For them, hometown support is immensely important. If you get to the venue early on weekdays you can usually see family and friends of these local boys roaring their support in an otherwise church-like silent and empty arena. So go, eat, drink, cheer on the local boys, and enjoy an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the world. 

2015 Grand Sumo Spring Tournament • When: March 8th to 22nd (8am to 6pm Daily) • Where: Bodymaker Colosseum Namba • Tickets: sumo.pia.jp/en

Some Useful Sumo Terms • Yokozuna: Grand Champion. Can never be demoted. Only 70 men have achieved this rank. • Ozeki: Sumo’s second highest rank. Two consecutive tournament victories as ozeki means promotion to yokozuna • Dohyo: The sumo ring. Combination of the characters for earth and straw bale (which is what the ring is made of) • Stable: There are 43 stables of various sizes. All wrestlers below the top ranks live and train in their stable full time. Wrestlers from the same stable never fight each other in official tournaments. Most are in central Tokyo but all relocate to Osaka in midFebruary in preparation for the Spring Tournament.

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Food & Drink

Craft Beer Corner With warmer weather on the way, there’s no better time to get reacquainted with the Osaka craft beer scene. Here’s three to get you going just a hop and a skip south of Umeda. Text & Images: Jason Haidar

Beer Belly in Higobashi

This month might be your final chance to enjoy one of the award-winning Minoh beers at the original Beer Belly in Higobashi. With its neighboring sister shop in Edobori having already closed its doors in January, one might wonder what the future holds for this iconic Osaka craft beer pub. Fear not! According to Beer Belly manager Yasuhiro Otsuka, “We are combining the two shops into a larger bar down the road in Kyomachibori.” The new Beer Belly is tentatively scheduled to open March 20th and in addition to a larger space Yasu says they are planning to brew their own line of beers on location under the Beer Belly Brewing moniker, possibly as early as July this year. But with 12 taps and three real-ale pumps, they’re not about to let the brew stop flowing at their current location. Check out this month’s guest beers from Outsider Brewery, Bunyip Australian IPA and the seasonal brew Special Pale Ale.

World Beer & Cafe Qbrick

Dig Beer Bar

Mondays (see website) • Price Range: Half

Opened in July 2013, Dig Beer Bar has cemented its place on the Osaka craft beer scene, educating fans about the culture and the craft locally and internationally. Its running series, the Great American Beer Tour, periodically showcases different American breweries and gives visitors the chance to sample some of the finest U.S. craft beers. This month, Pizza Port Brewing will be showcased from March 6th, and Stone Brewing from March 20th. Both will be featured in presentations from owner Keiji Nishio (Sat March 7th and Sat March 21st respectively) where he will give a talk on the history of the breweries and on craft beer in general. With a diverse rotating lineup of 16 craft beers on tap (roughly two thirds domestic and a third international), there is plenty to be curious about at Dig Beer Bar, and plenty to choose from. The friendly staff will also happily recommend excellent beer-food pairings to please the palate.

Open: Mon–Sat 5:00pm–12:00am • Closed:

pints from ¥650; US pints from ¥900; UK

Open: 5:30pm–1:00am • Price Range: 200

Sun & Holidays • Price Range: Half pints

pints from ¥1,100 • Food from ¥600 •

ml from ¥550; 300 ml from ¥750; 400 ml

from ¥500; UK pints from ¥900 • Food

worldbeerqbrick.com • Access: Midosuji

from ¥1000 • Food Price Range: ¥500–

from ¥600 • minoh-beer.jp/spot/beerbelly

Subway Line or Keihan Line,Yodoyabashi

¥2000 • dig-beer.com • Access: Midosuji

• Access: Yostubashi Subway Line,

Stn, 7-min walk

Subway Line or Keihan Line, Yodoyabashi

Higobashi Stn, Exit 10, 5-min walk

World Beer & Cafe Qbrick has been a fixture on the Osaka craft beer scene for a long time and will celebrate its 10year anniversary next month in style. Bar owner Takuya Yamamoto says “We have 10 events for our 10-year anniversary spanning from April 1st to May 10th.” The shop lives up to its name hosting a range of delicious brews from all over the globe, including a large selection of mostly imported bottled beers. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for small or large groups, with a downstairs area that can seat about 40 people. This month, pop in to enjoy their exclusive collaboration beer, an amber rice lager from Swan Lake Brewery in Niigata, which will be specially brewed for Qbrick and two other pubs in Tokyo and Hokkaido. With 15 taps, one real-ale pump, and mostly ji-biru on tap, the selection is constantly offering something new to try. Open: 5:00pm–12:00am • Closed: Some

Stn, 10-min walk

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Language

Listen up! For many schools, the 2014-15 academic year is ending and making way for the 2015-16 one to begin. You may be a new teacher in Japan about to embark on your first teaching role, or a more experienced expat changing jobs, schools, or classes. Perhaps you’ve decided to do a little language study yourself. If any of these scenarios ring true for you, then you might like to brush up on your classroom Japanese to either help you understand what your Japanese teacher is saying to you, or to assist you in getting any wayward kids into line. Start using the phrases below to help make classroom life a little easier.

Useful Expressions Okay, let’s start.

でははじめましょう。

De wa hajimemasho.

Please open to page (10).

10ページをあけてください。

Jyu pe-ji o akete kudasai.

Please be quiet.

しずかにしてください。

Shizukani shite kudasai.

Please listen.

きいてください。

Kiite kudasai.

I don’t understand.

わかりません。

Wakarimasen.

Please speak more slowly.

ゆっくりはなしてください。

Yukkuri hanashite kudasai.

What does that mean?

それはどういういみですか？

Sore wa dou iu imi desu ka?

Do you understand?

わかりますか？

Wakarimasuka?

Yes, I understand.

はい、わかりました。

Hai, wakarimashita.

No, I don’t understand.

いいえ、わかりません。

Iie, wakarimasen.

May I go to the bathroom?

おてあらい（といれ）にいってもいいですか？

Otearai (toire) ni itte mo ii desu ka

Let’s take a break.

ちょっと、きゅけいしましょう。

Chotto kyukei shimasho.

Get into pairs please.

ペアをくんでください。

Pea o kunde kudasai.

Excuse me, I have a question.

すみません。しつもんがあります。

Sumimasen. Shitsumon ga arimasu.

How do you say ‘verb’ in Japanese?

「verb」はにほんごでなんといいますか？

(verb) wa nihongo de nan to iimasu ka?

Say it all together.

みんなでいってください。

Minna de itte kudasai.

Fine, good.

いいです。

Ii desu.

Wrong.

ちがいます。

Chigaimasu.

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #178 MARCH 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Food & Drink

Foodspotting Visiting the newly-restored Himeji Castle this spring? Don’t forget to explore the culinary treats the neighborhood has to offer while you’re there. Text & Images: Sarasa Kitano

Cafe

Jidai Café

On a visit to Jidai Café in the neighborhood of Himeji Castle, don’t be surprised if you are greeted by a ninja waiter, as this café has utilized themes relating to Himeji Castle to keep its customers entertained and satisfied! In addition to typical Japanese café menu items such as curry rice, noodles, dango (Japanese sweet made from rice flour) and tea, one of their specialties is a ninja parfait (¥880); delicious sesame ice cream and mochi (rice cake) on a cornflake base, topped with shuriken (ninja star) shaped cookies. If you’re a beer and a samurai fan, try the busho (feudal warlord) craft beer. Each bottle has its unique flavor and is inspired by historic figures such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Oda Nobunaga. If you’re really feeling cultural, at Yumeoriuakata, which is adjacent to the café, you can try on high-quality, traditional Japanese costumes. “We value the experience of the ‘real’ Japanese culture,” says café owner Erika Hiramoto. You have the option of taking the Himeji Castle walking tour while disguised in a ninja or samurai costume! Open: Sun–Sat 10am–6pm • Price Range:

Oden

Nohko: Oden in Style

Cafe

Café de Miki with Hello Kitty

• Price Range: ¥1500–¥3000 • (Details on

For kawaii culture in a cuppa, stop in at the ultra-cute, ultra-pink Café de Miki – just a few minutes’ walk up Miyukidori shopping street toward Himeji Castle. The bespectacled Hello Kitty logo hints that this café is the result of a partnership between two quite different businesses; an iconic character, and a stylish eyewear brand. Café de Miki with Hello Kitty was born in 2010 thanks to Mr. Shintaro Tsuji, CEO of Sanrio, and Mr. Hiroshi Tane, the president and representative director of PARIS MIKI HOLDINGS. Tane says incorporating Kitty with food isn’t easy, but it’s so much fun, “I enjoy thinking, what would Hello Kitty have for afternoon tea?” Guests will find cakes and café lattes with Kitty’s face dusted in chocolate on top. They also serve almond toast, which is one of Himeji’s local gourmet treats. The third floor is good for an extended afternoon tea; based on a white color scheme, the couches and Hello Kitty-shaped cushions provide a relaxing, lounge type atmosphere.

the “Himeji Oden Map”) • Access: JR Himeji

Open: 9:30am–8pm • Price Range:

Stn, 10-min walk

¥500–¥1500 • cafedemiki.jp • Access:

Care to try a local savory snack? Himeji oden would be the choice. Oden (vegetables, meat, egg, and tofu boiled in broth) dipped in ginger soy sauce is the perfect dish to warm your cockles on an early-spring visit to Himeji. There are many oden shops, but what makes Nohko special is their pick of locally-grown vegetables and seafood. The daikon (Japanese radish) comes from Tatsuno, the octopus comes from Harimanada, and so on. Prices may change according to the season. Don’t miss the juicy daikon (¥200) that once appeared in a local gourmet food magazine. Approximately 20 kinds of oden are on offer including beef gristle, yuba (tofu skin), shiitake mushroom, and shungiku (garland chrysanthemum). Seating around 11 people, Nohko is small and usually crowded. There are no bilingual menus but don’t let this put you off, get in there and enjoy some Himeji oden and sake in a friendly, vibrant atmosphere. Open: Mon–Sat 5pm–10pm • Closed: Sun

¥500–¥1500 • yumeoriyakata.com/en •

JR Himeji Stn, 7-min walk up Miyukidori

Access: JR Himeji Stn, 10-min walk

shopping street

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Film Previews

Pick

 Mar 28

Into the Woods Rob Marshall, Fantasy, 125 mins, Mar 14 Starring: Anna Kendrick, Meryl Streep, Chris Pine, Emily Blunt, Johnny Depp

Based on a play, Into the Woods is a fun, dark, and entertaining movie with iconic fairy-tale characters and musical numbers aplenty. The cast is top notch, most notably Meryl Streep, but the movie does sag a little at the end.

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Shawn Levy, Adventure, 98 mins, Mar 20 Starring: Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Dick Van Dyke, Steve Coogan, Ricky Gervais

Jupiter Ascending

Perhaps even more so than the two previous, the newest Night at the Museum really aims at the kids, with toilet humour and slapstick taking centre stage. But adults will no doubt get a little teary seeing Robin Williams one last time.

Andy and Lana Wachowski, Sci-fi, 127 mins, Mar 28 Starring: Mila Kunis, Channing Tatum, Eddie Redmayne, Sean Bean

The Matrix was a break-out hit in 1999 for the Wachowski directors, who many predicted would go on to shake up Hollywood with hit after hit. Whilst they have both had the odd follow-up movie that some would argue are great (emphasis on “some”), for the most part they have spent the last 15 years disappointing people. So it is not surprising that many had reservations when the Wachowski siblings came together again to create another sci-fi universe. Unfortunately, the movie does not exceed those low expectations; it is undoubtedly great to look at, the gadgets and spaceships are cool, and every actor does a decent job. But there is no hiding from the fact that the movie liberally picks clichés and tropes from movies past, and slaps them together into a disjointed mess. The zero-to-hero role that Mila Kunis plays is a character arc so familiar audiences could finish half her sentences for her, whilst Channing Tatum is stoic and chivalrous, but hardly charismatic. True fans of the movie may solely be those that enjoyed not only the original Matrix but also its two sequels. The plot is ropey and troublesome but is a fun romp in patches. Mila Kunis is the titular Jupiter, a lowly cleaner who is in fact royalty from an empire that actually “seeded” the planet Earth 100,000 years ago… there goes the LUCA (Lost Universal Common Ancestor) theory out the window! She is called upon by super-soldier Caine Wise (Tatum) to return to her genetic homeland in order to stop the tyrannical Balem Abrasax (Eddie Redmayne), who is one of three siblings lobbying for power. You still with me? It does suffer a little from Phantom Menace syndrome, as we are forced to listen to quarrels and debates we really don’t care about…but they have hover-boots and lasers!

Don’t forget you can find a list of local cinemas (and what’s playing) online at: kansaiscene.com/cinemas

The Imitation Game Morten Tyldum, Drama, 114 mins, Mar 13 Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, Allen Leech

Cumberbatch plays this British mathematical genius to perfection in this gripping WWII period piece that proves not every battle was fought with guns, and brains can save more lives than brawn.

The Theory of Everything James Marsh, Drama, 123 mins, Mar 13 Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Tom Prior

Redmayne plays British mathematical and scientific genius Stephen Hawking to perfection in this heartrending period piece…hold on a second – two movies about numbers and stuff in one month!? This one has a love story though.

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Cinema Listings (selected theaters) Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda Tel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Chef, Teenage

Mutant Ninja Turtles, Fifty Shades of Grey, Mortdecai, The Fault in Our Stars, Big Hero 6, Exodus: Gods & Kings, Annie, Moomins on the Riviera (JP) • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything

Umeda Burg7 Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women) 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, Predestination, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai, Fifty Shades of Grey, Annie, Big Hero 6, Exodus: Gods & Kings • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything

Cine Libre Umeda Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/ cinelibre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,000

Now Showing: Begin Again, Elena

(RUS), The Banishment (RUS), Tonnerre (FR), Mystery (CHI), Still Life, The Face of Love, Rudderless, Adieu au langage (FR), National Gallery, Love Rosie • From Mar 7: The Vatican Museums: 3D • From Mar 14: Dior & I (FR) • From Mar 21: Back on Track (GER), La Cour de Babel (FR)

Theatre Umeda Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/ theatre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Now showing: Elsa and Fred, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Her, Aimer boire et chanter (FR) • From Mar 7: Diplomatie (FR)

Osaka Station City Cinema Tel: 06-6346-3215 • osakastationcitycinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of

the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Foxcatcher, The

Fault in Our Stars, American Sniper, Annabelle, Moomins on the Riviera (JP), Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Draft Day, Exodus: Gods & Kings 2D, Big Hero 6 2D, Boyhood • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb • From Mar 28: Jupiter Ascending

Toho Cinemas Namba Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, Chef, The Fault in Our Stars, Fifty Shades of Grey, Moomins on the Riviera (JP), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai • From Mar 6: Coming Home (CHI) • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game, Song One • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything

Namba Parks Cinema Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema. com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Foxcatcher, Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai, Annie, Big Hero 6, Exodus: Gods & Kings • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

Cinem@rt Tel: 06-6282-0815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men) Weds (women), 1st and 25th of the month: ¥1,000

Now Showing: Elena, Last

Paradise, Still Life, Ida, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him • From Mar 3: Iceman (CHI) • From Mar 14: Adieu au langage (FR) Upcoming: Road

Kyoto Movix Kyoto Tel: 07-5254-3215 • smt-cinema. com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st and 20th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Foxcatcher, Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage

Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai, Annie, Big Eyes, Exodus: Gods & Kings • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game, The Theory of Everything • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb • From Mar 28: Jupiter Ascending

Kyoto Cinema Tel: 07-5353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men), 1st of the month: ¥1,100

Now showing: Begin Again, Adieu

au langage (FR), National Gallery, Still Life • From Mar 7: Aimer boire et chanter (FR), Diplomatie (FR), Tonnerre (FR) • From Mar 14: Elena, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him • From Mar 21: Back on Track (GER)

Toho Cinemas Nijo Tel: 07-5813-2410 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, Chef, The Fault in Our Stars, Fifty Shades of Grey, Moomins on the Riviera (JP), Mortdecai, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Big Hero 6, Exodus: Gods & Kings, Annie • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything

Kyoto Minami Kaikan Tel: 075-661-3993 • kyotominamikaikan.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100, Students ¥1,500

Now showing: See website

Hyogo OS Cinema Mint Kobe Tel: 07-8291-5330 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai, Exodus: Gods & Kings, Annie, Big Eyes, Big Hero 6 • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game, The Theory of Everything • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb • From Mar 28: Jupiter Ascending

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Tel: 07-8230-3580 • smt-cinema. com • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

OS Cinema Kobe Harborland Tel: 07-8360-3788 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Chef, The Fault in Our Stars, Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai, Exodus: Gods & Kings, Annie, Big Hero 6 • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb • From Mar 28: Jupiter Ascending

Cine Libre Kobe Tel: 07-8334-2126 • ttcg.jp/ cinelibre_kobe • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,100

Now showing: Begin Again, Love Rosie, Foxcatcher, Elsa & Fred, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Her, Rudderless, Adieu au langage (FR) • From Mar 6: Coming Home (CHI) • From Mar 7: The Face of Love, Aimer boire et chanter • From Mar 14: The Vatican Museums: 3D, Diplomatie (FR) • From Mar 21: Dior and I (FR), Still Life • From Mar 28: Back on Track (GER)

Toho Cinemas Nishinomiya OS Tel: 050-6868-5051 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Fifty Shades of Grey, Moomins on the Riviera (JP), Mortdecai, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Big Hero 6, Chef • From Mar 13: The Imitation Game, The Theory of Everything • From Mar 14: Into the Woods • From Mar 20: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb • From Mar 28: Jupiter Ascending

Note: for show times and ticket information, please contact the cinemas directly

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Events  Mar 22

 Mar 3

Hina Doll Street in Omihachiman 近江八幡節句人形めぐり The Ban’s House, The Nishikawa’s House, and Surroundings, Shiga Until Mar 22

Admire the enchanting faces of classical Japanese dolls in the beautiful canal town of Omihachiman. These traditional treasures, which have been passed down through generations, are now on display at many places in the streets, wellpreserved in the Edo period style. Enjoy strolling around the old town – over 30 shops display their gorgeous dolls. The houses “kyu Ban-ke jutaku” – the Ban’s house, and “kyu Nishikawa-ke jutaku” – the Nishikawa’s house – hold especially splendid exhibitions of not only dolls but also miniature furniture and personal belongings. Time: 9am–4:30pm • Admission: ¥500 adults, concessions • Access: JR Omihachiman Stn, bus to Shiryokan-mae • omi8.com/ topics/hiina.htm

 Mar 21

Hina Nagashi – Farewell to Hina Dolls 雛流し Awashima Shrine, Wakayama • Mar 3

March 3rd is Girls’ Day, also known as the Doll Festival. Families with young daughters display a set of figurines representing the ancient imperial court and celebrate the happiness of their girls. The custom of displaying dolls started in the Heian period. It was once believed the dolls possessed the power to contain bad spirits. The Doll Festival includes an ancient Japanese custom called hina-nagashi (floating dolls), in which straw hina dolls are set afloat on a boat and sent out to sea, supposedly taking troubles or bad spirits with them. On this day, hundreds of women attend a ceremony to say farewell to their dolls carrying precious memories. Time: 12 noon • Admission: Free • Access: Nankai Line Kata stn; 15-min walk • kada.jp/awashima

Lighthouse Sunset 夕日を見る会 Saigasaki Lighthouse & Surroundings, Wakayama Mar 21

Legend has it that in Saigasaki, blossoms fall from the evening sun at the equinoxes in March and September. According to a folk tale, the sunlight appears as confetti at sundown. To witness this legendary celestial event, a gathering takes place in a beautiful lighthouse setting. There are a variety of attractions to entertain visitors. Whether the special phenomena occurs or not, it will be a great family day out with live performances, stalls, and the magnificent equinox sunset. Time: 2pm–dusk • Admission: Free • Access: JR Wakayama Stn; Nankai Wakayamashi Stn, bus to Saigasaki Yuen; 20-min walk • wakayamakanko.com/ information/?p=4430

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Mar 21 & 22

Banpaku Park Railway Fair

Event Listings

万博鉄道まつり2015

March

A Hands-on Japanese Culture Festival

The World of Tim Burton

伝統文化体験フェスティバル Hyogo Prefectural Guesthouse

Expo 70 Commemorative Park, Osaka Mar 21 & 22

Calling all train enthusiasts. Expo 70 Commemorative Park will again this year host one of the largest railway shows in Japan. With a wide variety of attractions, there is something of interest for all ages. While children ride a miniature steam locomotive and experience the driver’s cab, parents can watch or buy at the auction of collectors’ items. Watch various train models running through elaborate dioramas. Enjoy special box lunches produced by stations from all over Japan. Time: 9:30am–4:30pm • Admission: ¥250 adults, concessions • Access: Osaka Monorail Line Banpaku-kinen-koen Stn • bantetsu.com/map

 Mar 29

Hanezu Odori Dance はねず踊り Zuishinin Temple, Kyoto Mar 29

Make a visit to the ancient temple, Zuishinin, tinted with pink plum blossom called hanezu. When plum blossoms are at their peak in the temple, there is a dance performed by young girls. Dressed in shiny pink, these girls sing and dance on the special stage in the temple grounds. They dance to a song about Ono no Komachi, who was well known as a great beauty in ancient Japan. It is said that this lady, who had numerous romances, performed this dance with children in her twilight years. The Japanese garden with brilliant plum blossoms is a must see. Time: 11am • Admission: ¥1,000 adults, concessions • Access: Subway Ono Stn • zuishinin.or.jp

ティムバートンの世界 Knowledge Capital in Grand Front Osaka  Until Apr 19

For the first time ever in Japan, an exhibition of the works of Tim Burton is being held. Original character drawings, paintings, objects, as well as his personal photographs and letters will be showcased.

Time: 11am–7pm (11am–9pm Fri & Sat) • Admission: ¥1,800 adults, concessions • Access: JR Osaka Stn; Subway, Hanshin, or Hankyu Umeda Stn • tim-burton.jp/osaka.html

Hina Doll Street in Takatori Town

 Mar 7 & 8

Hyogo Arts & Culture Association will host a two-day Japanese arts and crafts festival. Guests can try their hand at origami, calligraphy, haiku, kabuki, drumming, and more. Time: 12 noon–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Motomachi Stn; 5-min walk • hyogo-arts.jp

2015 March Grand Sumo Tournament 大相撲三月場所 Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium  Mar 8–22

土佐町並み町家の雛めぐり Takatori-Cho, Nara

This special spring attraction in Osaka is a great chance to watch the best wrestlers battling it out. The ring-entering ceremony of topdivision wrestlers starts at 3:30pm.

Families with young daughters will display hina dolls to celebrate Girls’ Day. Over 100 houses exhibit their precious hina dolls for tourists at this event. Enjoy browsing the old streets and meeting the locals.

Kobe International Fair 2015

 Mar 1–31

Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: Kintetsu Line, Tsubosaka Stn • hinameguri.jp

Antique Hina-Ningyo Doll Exhibition 古代ひな人形展 Hokke-ji (Temple), Nara  Mar 1–18

About 100 antique dolls are showcased at this historic event. Visitors can admire hina-ningyo dolls, wind-up dolls, and goshoningyo – a doll modelled after a plump, naked infant.

Time: approx 9am (venue opens at 8am) • Admission: various tickets (see website) • Access: Namba Stn, 5-min walk • sumo.or.jp

神戸国際交流フェア2015  Mar 14 at Kobe Kinro Kaikan Mar 15 at Space Theater in Harborland

This is a big annual event showcasing Kobe’s international exchange activities. International speeches, a talk show, and a party (application needed) will be held at Kobe Kinro Kaikan. Stage shows, international foods, hands-on culture activities and more will be featured at the Space Theater.

Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: ¥500 adults, concessions • Access: Kintetsu Line Yamato-Saidaiji Stn bus to Hokkeji • hokkeji-nara.jp

Time: 1:30pm on the 14th, 11am on the 15th • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Sannomiya Stn for Kobe Kinro Kaikan, Subway Harborland Stn for the Space Theater • kicc.jp/ fair/2015fair.pdf

Evening of Traditional Performing Arts

Seiryu-E – Dragon Parade

上方伝統芸能ナイト Yamamoto Noh Theater, Osaka

青龍会 Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

A full array of traditional performing arts will be on stage in Osaka; comic story telling, narrative ballads, a Noh play, and party games. All performances are in English on this day.

A dazzling parade featuring a dragon and costumed performers dressed as various gods will take place at the temple.

 Mar 7

Time: 6pm • Admission: ¥4,500/¥4,000/¥3,500 • Access: Subway Tanimachi-yon-chome Stn, Exit 4; 2-min walk • noh-theater. com/index.html

 Mar 14, 15 & Apr 3

Time: 2pm • Admission: ¥300 • Access: Keihan Line Gion-shijo bus to Kiyomizumichi • monzenkai.com/ seiryue.html

Sagicho Festival 左義長まつり Himure-Hachimangu Shrine, Shiga

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Mar 14 & 15

Watch on as participants dance excitedly amid showers of fire sparks around blazing sagicho floats. A sagicho is a float with a two-meter high pine torch woven from new straw, on top of which is propped a three-meter long bamboo pole decorated with thousands of strips of red paper. A figure of the animal of the year is mounted in the center of the float. The people carrying the mikoshi (portable shrines) are called odoriko and even the men parade around with makeup-clad faces. Time: 1pm–5:30pm on the 14th, 10:30am–10:30pm on the 16th • Admission: Free • Access: JR Omi Hachiman Stn, bus to Kobatacho Shiryokan-mae • 5d.biglobe. ne.jp/~him8man

Mikabe Fesitval 御河辺祭 Kawaketa Mikabe Shrine, Shiga  Mar 15

In a festival to welcome spring, decorated wagons are pulled by horses and young guys dressed in loin cloths carry sake barrels. The festival begins with prayers to kamado no kami, the fire god of the kitchen, and ends with a procession of horses. Time: 12 noon • Admission: Free • Access: Omi Line, Yokaichi Stn, bus to Mikabejinja-mae • higashiomi. net/youkaichi/470.html

Osaka Motorcycle Show 2015 大阪モーターサイクルショー 2015 Intex Osaka  Mar 20–22

One of the largest motorcycle shows in Japan; motorcycle companies from here and abroad assemble, display and sell their products. Try out new models, watch bike demonstrations, enjoy the stage shows, and don’t forget about the “Kids’ Pit” for keeping the children happy. Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥1,300 (¥1,600 at door) adults, concessions • Access: Subway Cosmosquare Stn; 9-min walk • motorcycleshow.jp

The 9th Sake Festival 第９回日本酒まつり Fushimi Yume Hyakushu & Surroundings  Mar 21

A Japanese sake tasting will be held at the Fushimi Yume Hyakushu Shop and the Gokonomiya Shrine. Buy ticket before Mar 20. Call 07-5623-1360 for details. There will also be a local produce market as well as other attractions.

Time: 9:30am • Admission: ¥1,000 • Access: Keihan Line, Chushojima Stn; 10-min walk • kyoto-fushimikanko.jp/pdf/20150130.pdf

 Mar 21

KS International Party 関西シーンインターナショナルパーティー Nambar 10, Swissôtel Nankai, Osaka

Photo: Jason Haidar

Nipponbashi Street Festival 2015 日本橋ストリートフェスタ2015 Den-Den Town, Osaka  Mar 21

Den Den town is Osaka’s ultimate destination for anime, manga, video games, and electronics – and home to the lively and colorful Nipponbashi Street Festival. On March 21st, thousands will gather for the enormous cosplay event to parade through the town dressed as their favourite anime, manga, or movie characters. For cosplayers or curious spectators alike, this event is a definite must-see. Time: 12 noon–3pm • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Ebisu-cho stn; 6-min walk • nippombashi.jp/ festa/2015

Irish Festival アイルランドフェスティバル in 大阪 Tonbori Riverwalk, Osaka  Mar 22

A St Patrick’s Day parade will begin at 1:30pm on Dotonbori to complement an afternoon of traditional and modern Irish entertainment; live Irish dance shows, Irish music performances, food booths. Time: 11am • Admission: Free • Access: Subway or Nankai Line, Namba Stn; Kintetsu Line, OsakaNamba Stn • irishnjosaka.web.fc2. com/event.html

10th Takoage Japanese Kite Competition 第１０回たこあげ大会 Kobe Shinrin Shokubutsu-En, Hyogo  Mar 22

Join this kite competition with your very own handmade Japanese kites! There will be a workshop on making Japanese kites for children in the morning.

Time: 1:30pm–3pm (cancelled if raining) • Admission: Free • Access: Kobe Line, Kita Suzurandai Stn, free bus to the venue • kobe-park.or.jp/ shinrin

Feel the craic at our March St. Patrick’s Day theme party. Come in fancy dress (after the Nipponbashi Street Festa) or wear something green for discounted entry. We’ll have a bunch of silly games, spot prizes and the chance to win, among other prizes, a stay for two in the Swissôtel Nankai Osaka! Check our Meetup or Facebook pages for details.  Mar 21 (Sat) • Time: 7:30–10pm • Admission: ¥3,000/¥2,500 in fancy dress (incl. 2 drinks, lucky draw ticket) • Access: Namba Sta • meetup.com/Kansai-Scene • facebook.com/kansaiscene

Bushin Sai – Demonfighting Festival 武神祭 Usuki Hachiman-Jinja, Hyogo  Mar 28

According to legend, once upon a time, five ogres heroically fought and chased away evil demons. Watch a dazzling dance from five colorful ogres to commemorate. Enjoy a float parade and a variety of other performances.

Time: 11:30am • Admission: Free • Access: JR Aboshi Stn; 20-min walk • usukihachiman.or.jp/main.htm

Super Spicy Gourmet Food Competition ＫＡＲＡ－1グランプリ激辛グルメ日本一決定戦 Mukomachi Keirin-Jo (Mukomachi Bicycle Racing Stadium), Kyoto  Mar 28

Take a vote on your favorite spicy food. Candidates from all over Japan will compete for the championship.

Time: 9:30am–4:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Mukomachi Stn, 20-min walk • kara-1.jp

Magoichi Festival 孫市まつり

Saginomori Betsuin Temple, Wakayama  Mar 29

A spectacular, one-day celebration of a historic hero from Wakayama, Magoichi Saiga, who was the most fearsome gunman in the Warring States period. There will be an armored samurai parade, a matchlock gun demonstration, stage combats, and several other attractions.

Time: 11am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: Nankai Line, Wakayamashi Stn, 5-min walk

Demon Exorcising Ceremony 鬼追い式 Yakushiji Temple, Nara  Mar 31

This is the concluding ceremony for the Buddhist ritual hana eshiki; five demons roar wildly while running around and brandishing torches in the dark. Time: 8:20pm • Admission: ¥800 adults, concessions • Access: Kintetsu Line, Nishinokyo Stn • nara-yakushiji.com

Find more listings online: www.kansaiscene.com/ listings

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Community Events Submit your Event to Kansai Scene Having an exhibition? Staging a gig? Organizing a business seminar? Think KS should know about it? Well, you can now submit your own event listings to Kansai Scene. Absolutely free. All listings will be posted online, and the best selection listed here. Priority will be given to free, or not-for-profit events.

kansaiscene.com/submit-event-kansai-scene Events Live Improv Comedy! The frolicsome Pirates of the Dotonbori are performing another two riotous shows this month to meet eager audience demand. The first will be their usual live comedy show, and the second a special Asian All Stars Improv Comedy Show including improv teams from other areas of Japan, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. These pirates’ improvisation skills are second to none, so come armed with suggestions to throw their way and prepare to laugh your ass off!

Show 1: Sun Mar 15 • Live Comedy Show • 7pm for 7:30 start • Get Away Bar DYSON, Shinsaibashi • ¥1,000 (inc 1 drink) • facebook.com/getawaybar. dyson Show 2: Sun Apr 5 • Asian All Stars Improv Show • 7pm for 7:30 start • Rooftop Bar OO, Namba • ¥1,200 (inc 1 drink) • facebook.com/oo.rooftop

Step Harvest Vol. 2: We Are What We Eat A market meets music event in America-mura’s Big Step building. Approximately 40 booths will be selling products ranging from fresh produce and smoothies to handicrafts and holistic therapies.

Sun Mar 22 • 11am–5pm • Big Step, Shinsaibashi • Free • big-step.co.jp

Kansai Mashapp Osaka Innovation Hub presents a unique Hackathon event. Teams of developers go head to head to create a mobile app for tourists visiting Kansai, using local media and data, including Kansai Scene articles and listings. Sat Mar 7 and Sat Mar 21 • 9am–5pm • 7F Grand Front Osaka Tower–C3-1 • Free • innovationosaka.jp

Spring Brick Festival 2015 Charity lego brick building event in Settsu. There will be play areas with Lego bricks and Duplo, many great models and trains, a coffee and biscuit stall, a small Lego flea market, a treasure hunt, other activities, lots of Lego prizes and some Lego from long ago. We are fundraising for an orphanage and tickets are ¥200 for children (kids under 3 are free) adults are ¥300. Mar 28-29 10am–6pm • Settsu Community Plaza (Hankyu Line) • ¥200/¥300• klug-jp.com

KANHIKARI ART EXPO 2015 KANHIKARI ART EXPO is an art event gathering 30 artists from Japan and overseas in historic Japanese temples. Artists of various genres are participating, such as Fumitaka Tomita, a Japanese woodwork artist creating beautiful

wooden furniture. This year KANHIKARI ART EXPO will be held from March 6th to May 6th at Kodaiji temple, and also from the April 27th to May 6th at Mitera Sennyuji temple and Higashi-Honganji temple.

Mar 06–May 06 • Kodaiji Temple, Kyoto • ¥600 • kanhikari.com

Kansai Canadian Spring Picnic The Kansai Canadian Association invites Canadians and friends of Canada (any nationality welcome), to our annual spring picnic in Kyoto. Enjoy cherry blossom viewing in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Apr 12 • 12–4pm • Gosho Park, Kyoto Imperial Palace Grounds (for a map see website) • Potluck style – bring some food to share with others. In case of drizzle, we go, if heavy rain - cancelled • kansaicanada.com

Tuna and Craft Beer If you enjoy seafood and craft beer, make a reservation for Dig Beer Bar’s Akan-utage tuna event on March 8th which will feature topquality tuna nabe buffet and all you can drink craft beer for ¥6,000. For pre-sale tickets call 06-6445-6505 Mar 8 • Dig Beer Bar, Kyomachibori, Osaka • ¥6,000 • dig-beer.com

Velvet Moon Music: Live Music and Dance Performances Colin and Yozy (Cozy) will be mixing together live music and contemporary dance to make a spectacle for the eyes and ears. They are just one of three great acts of the evening. Other acts include: amalls の skcaj (Sseeaann Rrooee and Andy Couzens), みすず(dance) + 山崎昭典(guitar). Mar 25 • 7pm–10pm • UrBANGUILD Kiyamachi, Kyoto • Price: ¥2,000 in adv. ¥2,300 at door (+1 drink) • urbanguild.net

Silver Ball Planet Pinball Tournament Everyone is welcome to take part in this monthly pinball tournament at Big Step's fantastic pinball arcade Silver Ball Planet. All ages and levels welcome. Go head to head in teams and battle for pinball glory. Machines used for each tournament change each month. See Facebook for details. Feb 28 • Time: 4pm • Admission: Just pay to play (¥100 per game) • Where: BIG STEP 4F, Amemura • Access: Midosuji or Nagahori Subway Line, Shinsaibashi Stn, Exit 7 (3-min walk); Yotsubashi Stn, Exit 5 (3-min walk) • big-step.co.jp

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Mar 7–May 10

Cai Guo-Qiang 蔡國強「農民ダ・ヴィンチ」2013 サンパウロ、ブラジル銀行文化センター屋外での展示風景 Photo by Joana França

Pick

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art

Parasophia: Kyoto International Festival of Contemporary Culture 2015

Pipilotti Rist, Mercy Garden Retour Skin, 2014. Audio video installation. Photo inspired by Yuji, courtesy of the artist, Hauser & Wirth, and Luhring Augustine

Two months. Forty artists. 700 days of preparation. Quite possibly the Woodstock of contemporary art, this large-scale exhibition is the first of its kind in Kyoto thanks to not only its length but to the sheer diversity of the art. The extensive collaborative work done on the parts of the international and local artists combine to create something new and unique for the Kyoto setting. Only this time leave your hallucinogens at home – this art alone is sufficient stimulation for the senses. Mar 7–May 10 • First large-scale festival of contemporary art featuring 40 artists and events over a two-month period in museums and other locations in Kyoto • Open: 9am–5pm (admission until 4:30pm) • Closed: Mon (except national holidays) • Admission: ¥1,800 (¥1,400 advance; ¥6,000 for passport for unlimited access) • Access (to museum): bus from JR Kyoto Stn to Bijutsukan-mae bus stop; Event is throughout Kyoto • city.kyoto.jp/bunshi/kmma/en • parasophia.jp/en/introduction

 Mar 7–May 10 Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan

Secret Witches Exhibition Japan has Sadako, the West has witches. But what is a witch? Spell-casting, hook-nosed, broom-riding, devil ladies? Or just grannies with cauldrons of bubbling poison and a deep love of black cats? Maybe none of the above? This special exhibit is the first of its kind in Japan, jumping off of the latest ‘witches’ craze as seen in recent anime and dramas, aiming to introduce ‘real’ witches by their depictions in European art throughout history. Over 100 pieces from museums across Germany, Austria, and France will be exhibited along with media installations about witch burnings and the witch trials, in addition to a display of goods like brooms once used by ‘real witches’. Mar 7–May 10 • Mixed-media exhibit of over 100 pieces and complementary events centering on witch-themed art and history based on European folklore • Open: 10am–5pm (until 6pm on weekends and holidays) • Admission: ¥1,300 (¥1,500 at door) • Access: Chuo Subway Line, Osakako Stn, Exit 1 or 2, 5-min walk • osaka-c-t.jp

≪聖マグダラのマリアの誘惑≫ 1600 年頃クレムスミュンスター、ベネディクト修道会財団－美術品コレクション © Kremsmünster-Benediktinerstift

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Art Listings Hina Matsuri: A Banquet of Dolls Nara Prefectural Museum of Folklore  Until Mar 29

Introduction to the Hina Matsuri, an annual festival celebrated each March to wish for happiness and health for young girls, showcasing a selection of special hina dolls.

Open: 9am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥200 • Access: Kintetsu Line, Koriyama Stn, bus to Yata Higashiyama, 7-min walk • pref.nara. jp/1508.htm

Treasures of Todai-ji’s Omizutori Ritual Nara National Museum  Until Mar 15

While famed for signaling the advent of spring, this ritual has not once been forgotten in its tumultuous 1,250 year history, and is now known as the ‘ceaseless ritual’. On display are sculptures, paintings, calligraphy, works of the applied arts, and archaeological artifacts that signify this annual event. Open: 9:30am–6pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥520 • Access: Kintetsu Nara Stn, 15-min walk • narahaku. go.jp

Hyogo Ferdinand Hodler: Towards Rhythmic Images Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art  Until Apr 5

This is the largest exhibition in 40 years in Japan of prominent Swiss painter Ferdinand Hodler. World famous yet sometimes misunderstood for his ‘abstract’ style and distinctly realist tone that contrasted with the emerging ‘art nouveau’ trends of the early 20th century. Approximately 100 of his mixed-media works are on show. Open: 10am–6pm, 10am–8pm on Fri & Sat during special exhibitions • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,400 • Access: Hanshin Iwaya Stn • hodler.jp

Osaka History of Osaka-based Professional Sumo Wrestlers Osaka Museum of History  Until Mar 30

Exhibition highlighting the history and impact of the group of Osakabased sumo wrestlers who, from the Edo period, rose to leading prominence in the Grand Sumo Tournaments, one of which is held annually each March for 15 days in Osaka. Open: 9:30am–5pm; Fri 9:30-8pm • Closed: Tue • Admission: ¥600 • Access: Tanimachi-yon-chome Subway Stn • mus-his.city.osaka.jp

Miraculous Wonders! Trick Art Exhibition Daimaru Shinsaibashi Event Hall  Until Mar 16

Optical illusions and perspective tricks galore fill this interactive walk-through exhibit of illusion art. Think you can’t be fooled? Just wait until you see the Frankenstein piece. Bring your camera! Open: 10am–7:30pm • Admission: ¥800 • 2-min walk from Midosuji Shinsaibashi Stn. • daimaru.co.jp/ museum

Kobe Kazuko Gokura: 100th Birthday ‘Ume’ Exhibition Kosetsu Museum of Art  Mar 7–May 10

Celebration of the artist’s 100th birthday and over 60 years of her award-winning paintings and watercolors from the Taisho, Heiwa, and Showa eras alongside the premiere of new pieces, inspired by the beautiful Japanese ume tree and its fruit. Open: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥700 • Hankyu Line to Mikage Stn, 5-min walk • kosetsu-museum.or.jp

Kyoto Black Jack Stories: Doctors’ Choice Kyoto International Manga Museum  Until May 10

The manga equivalent to the American hit medical show E.R., the ‘quintessential medical manga’ Black Jack has inspired doctors and an interest in the medical field for over 40 years. This special showcase includes a panel selection of ‘doctors’ choice’ scenes from the manga, a photo area with wearable props, a small exhibit of medical instruments, and more. Open: 10am–6pm (admission until 5:30pm) • Closed: Wed • Admission: Free (usual fee of ¥800 general admission required) • Access:

The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga

Looking at Shakespeare! The World of Shakespeare through Book Design and Painting This exhibition, divided into two parts, celebrates 450 years since Shakespeare's birth. The first part is a display of some 190 pieces of art and illustration, depicting famous scenes from Shakespeare's plays, including pieces by Arthur Rackham, Marc Chagall and Eugène Delacroix. The second half features a large collection (80 pieces) of selected and winning works from the 2013 Designer Bookbinders Competition, featuring lovingly crafted books devoted to his most famous works, including Othello, King Lear, The Tempest, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and, for all the young and romantically conflicted, Romeo and Juliet. In March, there will be three related events including an Opera produced by Biwako Hall. Check The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga website for details. ウィリアム・シェイクスピア『夏の夜の夢』挿絵：アーサー・ラッカム 1908年早稲田大学坪内博士記念演劇博物館／K. コレクション

Nara

 Until Apr 5

Until Apr 5 • Vast and colorful exhibition of paintings and bookbinding designs inspired by Shakespeare along with special events on Shakespearean themes • Open 9:30am– 5pm (admission until 4:30pm) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,000 • Access: JR Seta Stn • shiga-kinbi.jp

Karasuma or Tozai Line to Karasuma Oike Stn • kyotomm.jp

“To Become Uncertain” Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art  Until Mar 22

At the heart of all Hirohiko Nakano’s perceptive paintings is an notion of “uncertainty.” In an era of global standardization with the loss of unique cultural expression and the assertion of personal identity, Nakano aspires in his works for an examination of the source of life and death. A commemorative collection of his art and postcard prints will be available for purchase. Open 10am–5:30pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1000 • Access: Keihan Line to Shijo Stn, 3-min walk • kahitsukan.or.jp

Shiga Barett Newman: Stations of the Cross Miho Museum  Mar 14–May 7

A reimagined and modernized interpretation of the iconic religious story of Jesus’ crucifixion. Instead of figures and ‘realistic’ symbols, the artist uses distressed lines of varying widths to tell the story. From the National Gallery in Washington. Open 10am–5pm, admission until 4pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1100 • Access: JR Kyoto to

Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Live Music  Apr 2

Mastodon

Formed 15 years ago in Atlanta, Georgia, sludge metal outfit Mastodon were described by the BBC as “the most ambitious, most fearless, most fun heavy metal band to have breached the mainstream since the 1970s.” Top that with Rolling Stone’s “Mastodon are the greatest metal band of their generation” and you know that this is a gig not to be missed by any true rock or metal fan. Last year saw the release of the band’s sixth studio album Once More ’Round the Sun. On the album, band member Bill Kelliher stated “There’s a lot of different influences, from Alice In Chains to Deftones. There’s a lot of rock going on.” Mastodon play two dates in Japan before heading back to the US where they’ll be performing almost every night until the end of May.

Pick

American heavy metal four-piece • Big Cat, Osaka • Apr 2 • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Live Music Listings Mar/Apr Rock & Pop

 Mar 17 • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Air Supply Australian soft rock band debuted 1976 Billboard Live Osaka

 Mar 17 • Rock • 6:30pm/8:30pm • ¥11,500/¥13,000 • Tel: 06-63427722

Basement Jaxx

Basement Jaxx British electric dance music duo Namba Hatch, Osaka

 Mar 12 • Electric • 7pm • ¥6,800 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Jackson Browne American singer-songwriter and musician Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka

 Mar 16 & 19 • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥9,000/¥10,000 • Tel: 066357-4400

Daisy Stripper Five-piece Japanese visual kei rock band formed 2007 Club Quattro, Osaka

Plastic Tree Japanese visual kei rock band formed 1993 Big Cat, Osaka

 Mar 21 • Rock • 6pm • ¥5,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Zazen Boys

Lenny Kravitz

Japanese band formed by Number Girl guitarist Shutaku Mukai Taku Taku, Kyoto

American rock singer-songwriter and guitarist Orix Theatre, Osaka

Cyntia

 Mar 17-18 • Rock • 7pm • ¥10,000/¥20,000 • Tel: 06-63574400

Mow Mow Lulu Gyaban Indie art rock trio from Kyoto Taku Taku, Kyoto

 Mar 19 • Indie • 6:30pm • ¥3,500 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

the pillows Japanese alternative rock trio formed 1989 Namba Hatch, Osaka

 Mar 20 • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,320 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

 Mar 22 • Punk-rock • 10:30am • ¥3,999 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Exodus American 80’s thrash metal band Shangri-La, Osaka

 Mar 23 • Thrash • 7pm • ¥7,000/¥7,500 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

 Mar 21 • Rock-pop • 5:30pm • ¥3,800 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Japanese all-female rock pop band Club Quattro, Osaka

 Mar 22 • Rock-pop • 5:30pm • ¥3,800/¥4,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Aldious Japanese female rock band Club Alive, Osaka

 Mar 22 • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,800/¥4,300 • Tel: 06-6213-8585

Sakai Meeting 2015 ft. Shonen Knife, Good4Nothing, Voodoo Glow Skulls, China Wife Motors Annual punk-rock, all-day festival Sakai Meeting 2015 Kokusai Shogaisha Koryu Centre, Osaka

The Charlatans

The Charlatans English indie-rock band featuring Tim Burgess Club Quattro, Osaka  Mar 25 • Indie • 7pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Little Glee Monster Industry produced girl vocal pop group formed 2013 Club Quattro, Osaka

 Mar 26 • J-Pop • 6:30pm • ¥3,500 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

 Apr 15

 Apr 4

Charli XCX

 Mar 24

Todd Wolfe Band

Soft Machine Legacy

Emma Aitchison • Akaso, Osaka • Apr 15 •

American blues-rock guitarist and singer

Early prog rock pioneers with special guest

Pop-electro • 7pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-7897-

• Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Apr 4 • Blues •

Keith Tippett • Billboard Live

2450

7:30pm • ¥3,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5255-

Osaka • Mar 24 • Prog-rock •

7273

6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,900/¥9,400 • Tel:

Charlotte Emma Aitchison, better known by her stage name of Charli XCX, released her debut EP You’re The One in 2012, this was followed a year later by the major label full album True Romance. Last December saw her second album Sucker named best pop album of 2014 by Rolling Stone magazine (and second best by Billboard). Born in England to a Scottish father and an Indian mother Charli XCX has cited influences on her latest album as Weezer, The Hives, and The Ramones and states “I came from the club scene, and even though I write pop music, I wanted that to be there (a prominent bass) and have these hip-hop beats but a Bjork-esque, ethereal magic over all of it.”

Back in 1979 in New York, blues rock guitarist and vocalist Todd Wolfe could be found playing Clapton, Green, and Hendrix influenced jams with the band Nitetrain. His next band was Troy and The Tornadoes (a band Sheryl Crow performed with occasionally in the 80s) before relocating to Los Angeles. From 1993 to 1998, Wolfe took the role of lead guitarist in Sheryl Crow’s touring band. On their website, the Todd Wolfe Band describe themselves as a band playing music from the days when “amps were amps, real tubes crackling with a bluesadelic sound reminiscent of the best rock and roll bands of the 60s.” Drummer Roger Voss and bassist Justine Gardner back up Todd Wolfe to complete the trio.

Soft Machine were originally a fourpiece, English, prog-rock fusion band from Canterbury (named after the William S. Burroughs book The Soft Machine) that can easily be named as one of the early pioneers of the progressive rock genre. With many lineup changes and the band disbanding eventually in 1984, four members came back together in 2002 under the banner Soft Works. In 2004 that changed (with another lineup change) to Soft Machine Legacy. In 2013 the band released the studio album Burden of Proof, and the present touring line-up consists of guitarist John Etheridge, bassist Roy Babbington, renowned pianist Keith Tippett, ex-Level 42 drummer Gary Husband, and jazz saxophonist Theo Travis.

English pop singer-songwriter Charlotte

06-6342-7722

Glenn Tilbrook Ex-Squeeze lead singer and guitarist Taku Taku, Kyoto

 Apr 5 • Pop • 4:30pm/6:30pm • ¥6,000/¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

 Apr 2 • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

Mastodon

Ex-Oasis guitarist and singer Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka

American heavy metal four-piece Big Cat, Osaka  Apr 2 • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Ikimono Gakiri Japanese pop-rock trio formed 1999 Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka  Apr 4–5 • Pop-rock • 5pm on the 4th; 4pm on the 5th • ¥7,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Apr 6 • Rock • 7pm • ¥9,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Stick Men (Tony Levin, Markus Reuter, Pat Mastelotto with special guest David Cross) Ex-King Crimson Tony Levin’s prog-rock outfit Billboard Live Osaka

 Apr 9 • Rock • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,000/¥9,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

PUFFY

White Ash

Japanese female pop duo Billboard Live Osaka

Four-piece Japanese indie-rock band from Tokyo

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Kato Miliyah

Rie Fu

Japanese pop and urban singer Miho Kato Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Japanese female singer-songwriter Rie Funakoshi Taku Taku, Kyoto

Jurassic 5

 Apr 10 • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500 • Tel: 06-6882-1224

 Apr 10 • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Acidman Japanese rock trio from Saitama Namba Hatch, Osaka

 Apr 11 • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥4,600 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Penicillin Japanese visual kei rock band Shangri-La, Osaka

 Apr 11 • Rock • 6pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

 Apr 12 • Pop • 6pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

American alternative hip-hop group Big Cat, Osaka  Apr 13 • Hip-hop • 7:30pm • ¥8,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

CHARLI XCX English singer-songwriter Charlotte Emma Aitchison Akaso, Osaka  Apr 15 • Pop-electro • 7pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-7897-2450

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Interview // Stick Men King Crimson are as popular in Japan as they are anywhere across the globe, and Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto of King Crimson also are members of the trio Stick Men, along with guitarist Markus Reuter. Taking the band name from the touch guitar instruments that Levin and Reuter play, they make music that is both experimental and innovative. Kansai Scene spoke with Tony Levin prior to the band’s upcoming Osaka gig. Stick Men is known for the use of touch guitars, which in many ways could be seen as the evolution of the guitar. Japan being a country that readily accepts new and innovative gadgets and styles, do you see an audience that is maybe more enthusiastic towards touch guitar music than elsewhere? The Japanese music lovers are, indeed, interested in new instruments and approaches. Many years ago, before I started finding interest in other places, I was asked to do a clinic with the Chapman Stick in Tokyo, and the popularity of the instrument has grown there, with many excellent players. It’s a pleasure to come to Japan with groups, like King Crimson, that incorporate into their music the different approaches and instruments of the band members – and with Stick Men, we have a lot of that aside from my playing the Chapman Stick. Markus Reuter plays the U8 Touch Guitar, which he designed himself. Pat Mastelotto plays not just acoustic drums, but different types of electronic percussion, and is an innovator in that field. The last studio album from Stick Men was the 2013 Deep two years ago. Is there new material that you’ve written since then that is unrecorded but is included into the band’s current set list? We are working on new material right now, in Berlin, and the band is always in the process of writing or fine-tuning our music. We also do a lot of improvising in our shows, some of which leads to new compositions. Probably the next studio release won’t be until the end of the year, and it’s hard to say whether we’ll play any of that material before then. All three members of the trio are busy with other projects but would you say now that Stick Men is your main focus? It is indeed a high priority for each of us, as can be seen from all the touring we’ve done. We love to bring our music to cultures all over the world, and will continue to do that in the coming year. Pat and I being in the newly activated King Crimson, have some touring dates put aside for that group – but the rest of the time, even in breaks in Crimson’s tours, we’ll do our best to be out with Stick Men. Ex-King Crimson bassist Tony Levin’s touch guitar prog rock outfit • Billboard Live Osaka • Apr 9 • Rock • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,000/¥9,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

 Apr 9

Stick Men @ Billboard Live Osaka  Mar 20-21 • Jazz • 7pm/9pm • ¥5,800/¥7,800 • Tel: 06-6533-0262

Saori Yano Japanese jazz alto saxophonist Mr. Kelly’s, Osaka

 Mar 27 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥4,800/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6533-0262

Todd Wolfe Band Pink Floyd Trips

Pink Floyd Trips The ultimate Pink Floyd tribute band Uwaya Gekijyo Live House, Kobe

 Apr 4 • Rock • 8pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: Tony 090-6608-8686

American blues rock guitarist and singer Live Spot Rag, Kyoto

 Apr 4 • Blues • 7:30pm • ¥3,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5255-7273

R&B & Soul

World Music Happy Traum American folk guitarist performing since the 1950s Taku Taku, Kyoto

 Apr 6 • Folk • 7pm • ¥6,000/¥7,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Jazz and Blues Jun Kajiwara & Kumi Adachi Blues Fusion Japanese guitarists collaboration Live Spot Rag, Kyoto

 Mar 15 • Fusion guitar • 7pm • ¥3,888/¥4,860 • Tel: 07-5255-7273

Giovanni Mirabassi Trio Paris-based Italian jazz pianist Billboard Live Osaka

 Mar 16 • Jazz • 6:30pm/8:30pm • ¥5,400/¥6,900 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Fried Pride Japanese jazz acoustic guitar and vocal male female duo Mr. Kelly’s, Osaka

Arrested Development

Arrested Development American alternative R&B hip-hop group formed 1988 Billboard Live Osaka  Apr 6 • R&B Hip-hop • 6:30pm/8:30pm • ¥7,900/¥9,400 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

George Clinton US singer-songwriter, producer, soul-funk musician Billboard Live Osaka

 Apr 10–11 • Soul-funk • 6:30pm & 8:30pm on the 10th; 6pm & 8pm on the 11th • ¥14,500/¥16,000 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Club

 Mar 28

Onzieme On March 28th, Onzieme welcomes one of the UK’s finest and most respected house DJ/producers Dave Seaman. He has been on the scene for more than two decades and is still at the top of his game. Highly sought after for many reasons, he is the first editor of the clubbers bible Mixmag magazine, and the owner of two record labels, Audio Therapy and Seledor Recordings. Seaman continuously releases mixed albums from legendary house labels like Renaissance, Global Underground, and Back To Mine, doing remixes for U2, Kylie Minogue, David Bowie and the Pet Shop Boys. He also runs the monthly radio show Radio Therapy Broadcast. In 2014, he launched his own label party “Seladore Ibiza” on the island of Ibiza, the world’s premier clubbing destination. If you are looking for good old euphonic, progressive sound, do not miss this event. Listen to his latest mixes and tracks on his soundcloud page: soundcloud.com/daveseaman

Hush! (House/Techno) • DJs: Dave Seaman, Yashima, Dmitri, Ebo, MaSataka • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Club Listings March

Onzieme

1 (Sun)

• Live: Rude Boy • DJs: Toshiharu Aoyama, Kazumoto Nakamura • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06- 62430089 • onzi-eme.com

Circus Five-5- (Techno/House) • DJs:

Golden, Fumi, Guri, Idiot Deux, Mitsuyasu, Takaaki, Toyo, Yuji Yamaguchi + more • Open: 6pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

4 (Wed) Onzieme Escape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

5 (Thu) Giraffe Osaka Play Ground (EDM) • DJs: Vicetone,

Kitten, Kento, Imai + more • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,500, Ladies: ¥1000 (Before 9pm: Gentlemen: ¥1,500, Ladies: Free) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62111516 • giraffe-osaka.net

London Graffiti (Rock/Dance)

6 (Fri) Circus Step (Drum’n’Bass) • DJs: Ed

Rush, Toyo, Rasty, Mountain • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Grand Cafe Emerald’o presents Mauro Picotto (Trance/Techno) •

Live: Toru Ikemoto • DJs: Mauro Picotto, Yashima, Shine, Master Azia, Bluetreexx, Atta, Mk • Open: 9pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62130031 • grandcafeosaka.com

7 (Sat) Circus Leisure System presents New Build (Electronic/Dubstep) •

Live: Shackleton, Metome • DJs: Objekt, Yosuke Yukimatsu • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 • Where:

Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme Youarehere feat. Gaiser (Techno/ House) • Live: Gaiser • DJs:

Nao Nomura, Junichi Kuwata, Sou, Unbalance • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06- 6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop Cafe Hed Kandi - After Runway (House) • DJs: Yasuca, Atsuo

Morita, Satoshi, Soery, Tokuoka, Chao-Zoo + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

8 (Sun) Circus Circus Sunday Session feat. Marco Lenzi (Techno) • DJs: Marco

Lenzi, Monashee, Yuuna • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

11 (Wed) Onzieme Escape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06- 6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

12 (Thu) Metro Connected Underground – Andy Vaz Japan Tour 2015 (Techno/ House) • DJs: Andy Vaz, Moderna,

Ryoma Sasaki + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Tel: 075752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

13 (Fri) Circus System7 Japan Tour (Techno/ Trance) • Live: System7 • DJs:

Takaaki Ito, Yashima • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troop Cafe Ichigo Ichie (Techo/House) • Acts:

Marron, Nakamura Itaru, Halptribe, Aokiss, Nilei • Open: 11pm •

Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

14 (Sat)

House) Acts: Aroop Roy, Yoshinori Okino, Yoshihisa Fujii, Takaharu Furutani + more • Open: 8pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme Circus Qube.TV (Techno/Trance) • DJs:

Masda, Shingo, Ono • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troop Cafe Lovers Jak (Techo) • DJs: Andy Vaz, Takeshi Kouzuki, Hankyo, Yuko Nishida • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

15 (Sun) Troop Cafe Hour - Night Flea - (Techo/ House) • Live: Together • DJs:

Shinya, Yottu, Seiji Yamada, Hal • Open: 6pm • Admission: Free • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

18 (Wed) Onzieme Escape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

20 (Fri) Circus Hip hop Circus (Hip hop) • DJs: Jin from Rhymster, Urata • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥TBA • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme CyberJapan presents Bikini Night 2015 – Winter- (EDM/ House) • DJs: Mitomi Tokoto &

CyberJapan Bikini Girls, Mravy, Hmen, H1rokaz, Shin5, Hayato • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (Girls in bikinis: Free) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

21 (Sat) Circus Freedom Time presents Aroop Roy Japan Tour 2015 (Crossover/

Eleven Lights – Yamato “Spinnin’ In The Mix” Club Tour (EDM) •

DJs: Yamato, Kento, Alphashot, Ziel, Nick • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06- 6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop Cafe Bush - 9th Anniversary (Techo/ House) • Live: Guillaume & The

Coutu Dumonts • DJs: Soichi, Tomoaki Imazu, Shunji Nakamura • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

22 (Sun) Namura Zosen Atochi Circus presents One Nation (House/Techno) • Live: Henrik

Schwarz, Deep Cover, Hipnotics • DJs: Spinna, Konstantin Sibold, Swindle, Roska + more • Open: 1pm–10pm • Admission: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,500) • Where: Kitakagaya • thestarfestival.com

25 (Wed) Onzieme Escape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

26 (Thu) Onzieme Antenna (Techno/House) • DJs: Cazbpw. Sak, Mad Ko$mos, Mtsk, Shinjyu, No15e • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

28 (Sat) Circus Native Tribe presents DJ Kulu (Trance) • Live: Digitalian, Gu •

DJs: Shota, Tadayan, Ats • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

 Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds Accommodation For Rent APARTMENTS IN KOBE WITH NO KEY MONEY. 1 room apartments

from 40,000 yen per month. 2 and 3 bedroom apartments also available from JR Kobe to Rokko Michi. Email kevin@elliottventures.com, call 090 6777 9864 for a viewing or visit www.elliottventures.com or find us on Facebook. Contact: kevin elliott <kevin@elliottventures.com> Website: www.elliottventures.com

KOBE - SANNOMIYA & MIKAGE HANKYU. Two apartments, both

semi-furnished, no key money nor agency fee, 2 months refundable. MIKAGE: ¥98,000/month, 61sqm, very sunny, views, natural location. SANNOMIYA (Kasuganomichi): ¥89,000/month 43sqm, very convenient. ffeilden@yahoo.co.jp 090-9286-1216 Contact: Ffeilden <ffeilden@yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.ffeilden.com/ [2407-436-2015-

02-21]

Shared House

[1613-335-2015-04-06]

SAWANOCHO AREA, 1DK SEMI FURNISHED 55000YEN/MONTH . 4min walk to Sawanocho Nankai

Koya train line, or 8min walk to Abiko JR Hanwa station. 15min by train to Namba or Tennoji. Semi furnished for 55000yen/month. Available on 4 and 5th floors. No elevator building. No Key money, No Guarantors needed, No Agency fees, 6month minimum contract. Alex 09037030314 Contact: alexb <alex@abhousingosaka.com> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com

[2303-90-2015-03-21]

MIKAGE/SUMIYOSHI 1K SEMIFURNISHED HOUSE. Rent 45,000

yen. It is a unique one bedroom house on the beautiful Mikage Hillside, separate kitchen and bathroom area, new and good design, cozy and efficient. The resident can share the huge garden space which has an amazing view. 1Mo. Deposit, 1 Mo. Key money. Contact Rica 090 9286 1216 Contact: ffeilden <info@ffeilden. com> Website: www.ffeilden.com/ [2483-436-2015-03-20]

KOBE, ASHIYA 2DK FOR 90000YEN/MONTH. Has a

yard!!. 1st floor 2DK apartment, with 20 square meter yard. 44 square meter apartment. Recently remodeled, very clean. Unfurnished at 90000yen/month, semi furnished 100000yen/month, fully furnished at 110000yen/month. 10minute walk to Ashiya JR station. No key money, 1month refund. deposit, 6month min. contract. Contact: alexb <alex@abhousingosaka.com> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com [2243-90-2015-02-19]

TANIMACHI 6, 2 STORY HOUSE, 110000 FULLY FURNISHED.

Small 2 story townhouse, Fully furnished for 110000yen/month. 6month minimum contract stay, 1 month deposit, No key money, No guarantors. Utilities extra. 4min walk to Tanimachi 6chome and Matsuyamachi subway stations. Old nostalgic area of Osaka with many restaurants and shopping close by. Alex 09037030314 Contact: alexb <alex@abhousingosaka.com> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com

[2141-90-2015-03-03]

UMEDA 1 ROOM IN 3LDK FURNISHED. The flat is located 5

minutes from Nakatsu station or 15 minutes from Umeda station. Fully furnished, air conditioned, internet, without beddings. 7 mats size room + closet. The rent: 46,000 yen. Deposit: 90,000 yen. Non-smokers only. Photos send by mail. 2 Japanese women are staying. Contact: Takeshi8 <go.0248@gmail. com> Website: h.prospects-8.com/

[2500-1486-2015-03-23]

Jobs Education PART-TIME MATH TEACHER.

Teach three 45-minute lessons from 14:30 to 17:00 on Wednesdays. Pay: 3,000 yen per lesson. Qualification: University or College Graduate. Send your resume to Takimoto(Mr.) Kansai International High School (5 minute-walk from Tennoji-station, Osaka-city) Tel 06-6621-8108 E-mail: T_Takimoto@tg-group. ac.jp Contact: kihs <kihs@ tg-group.ac.jp> Website: www. tg-group.ac.jp/kihs/ [2447-964-201503-07]

SEMI FULL TIME TEACHER NEEDED AT FRIENDS EIKAIWA.

Friends Eikaiwa, located at Hanaten and Suminodo stations, is looking for a fluent, friendly English teacher. Proper visa please. Tues-Thurs. 1800 yen hourly. -Possibility of a full time position with a monthly salary including paid holidays -Paid prep time -Paid transportation -incentives -relaxed atmos Contact: Friends Eikaiwa <friendseikaiwa@gmail. com> Website: friendseikaiwa.com/ hanaten/ [2493-274-2015-03-21] KANSAI CORPORATE CLASSES.

CES seeks English/other languages corporate instructors/interpreters for (2-7 teaching hours a day) Hyogo, Shiga, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama and Wakayama areas for 1-12mth courses starting immediately. 3,500-4,000 yen per hour. For more info, please forward C/V with availability to mark@ cesjapan.co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@cesjapan.co.jp> [2193-772015-07-31]

LOOKING TO BUY GROUP OR BUSINESS ENGLISH CLASSES.

Experienced teacher is interested in taking over group or business ESL classes.I`m prepared to buy classes from existing teachers .If you are changing jobs or leaving Kansai and have your own class(not outsourced) you can pass on your classes and get paid for them . Contact Marc at theotremblay@ hotmail.com Contact: theotremblay <theotremblay@hotmail.com> [2494-3419-2015-03-21]

NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED FOR KYOTO SCHOOLS.

Trinity Management Group is seeking experienced TESOL qualified teachers for junior and senior high school classes in Kyoto and Osaka. We are also looking for teachers to teach business English night class in Osaka. We offer competitive rates. Please send introduction letter and CV/Resume to info@trinity-m.c Contact: Peter <peter.chen@trinity-m.com> Website: www.trinity-m.com [24843399-2015-03-20]

WAKAYAMA FULL-TIME ALT TEACHERS WANTED FROM APRIL.

We’re currently interviewing for full-time ALT positions that will start from April around Wakayama prefecture. Successful candidates must be present in Japan with proper visa. Also, one must have experience, attractive character and ability to teach effectively. Apply now by calling 080-3835-3446 or e-mail. Contact: Steve P <steve.p@ehowdy.net> Website: www.e-howdy. net/english.html [2431-314-2015-

03-04]

NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED IN SAKAI. We are looking

for native English teacher for kids. Morning kids lessons are 3 hours long. We can also offer more work hours in the afternoons if willing. School in Asakayama on the Nankai line. It takes 2min by walk from the station. Please send your resume with a photo by e-mail. office@playful-time.com Contact: playfultime <office@playful-time. com> Website: www.playful-time. com [2478-2763-2015-03-18]

NATIVE P/T ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED. We required 8-10 native

English teachers for P/T positions from April 2015 for the academic year. Teachings kids between 6-12 years old .Classes in Osaka and Tokyo. Very good conditions for the right candidates . Please send CV and cover letter to Noel at noel_doyle@eircom.net . Contact: noel_doyle44 <noel_doyle@eircom. net> [2487-2096-2015-03-20] KIDS TEACHER IN FUSE, HIGASHI-OSAKA. Small school

in Fuse, Higashi-Osaka, looking for reliable, friendly, experienced English teacher. Classes are small and consist of 4-5 kids. We need a

part-time teacher for one day a week initially, but this could increase renumeration - JPY3000 per hour Please send CV w/photo to chris@ nativeenglish.biz Contact: cdel3000 <chrisdelacy2003@yahoo.co.uk> [2417-1674-2015-02-26]

SATURDAY ENGLISH TEACHING JOB IN IZUMI FUCHU. Saturday

English Teaching in Izumi Fuchu. Looking for responsible, competent English teacher for Saturday work in Izumi Fuchu. Self motivated teacher able to teach different ages prefered. Transportation, 10,000 yen per day. Must be available every Saturday. Call Success English School at 06 7860 4700. Contact: SUCCESS ENGLISH SCHOOL <sethlr@yahoo. com> Website: osaka-english.com

[2412-2109-2015-02-23]

TEACHERS WANTED. School

in Ashiya/Okamoto is looking for FT/PT English, French and Korean teachers ASAP. University diploma is preferable. Must be native speaker with valid visa. Payment: 2700-3000 yen per hour and transportation. Please send your resume with a photo by email, ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp. Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@ hotmail.co.jp> Website: www. comlanguageschool.com [2397-252-

2015-03-18]

スペイン語の無料ワンレッスンをお楽しみください。. スペイン語の無料ワンレッスンをお楽しみください。スペイン・マラガ大学卒、講師歴20年のベテラン女性講師と楽しくスペイン語を学びましょう。簡単で革新的なレッスンです。全てのレベル対象。無料体験レッスンお申込みは、info@linguaintensa.com / 074247-9132まで。 Contact: kokosan

<spanishguay@yahoo.es> Website: www.linguaintensa.com/faq_jap. html [2424-2146-2015-03-01] FULL-TIME NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER IN ASHIYA CITY.

Imagine Language Studio is looking for an experienced native English teacher who is punctual, and enthusiastic about teaching. TESOL certification preferred. Schedule and wage: Wednesday to Sunday, ¥200,000 ~ ¥250,000, starting April 1st. Send CV to Brandon Hirano at brandon@justimagine.jp Contact: imagine <info@justimagine.jp> Website: justimagine.jp/ [2427-1477-

2015-03-04]

PART TIME NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED ASAP. I

need a native English teacher who can work ASAP. Tuesday and Wednesday From 2:30pm to 9:30pm. 10,000yen a day plus transportation. Our school is in Hirano-ku Osaka, about 1 min walk from Deto Station (Tanimachi-line). Please email your resume to nobuizu@lapis.plala.or.jp Contact: ulc_nob <nobuizu@lapis. plala.or.jp> [2444-1602-2015-03-13]

LOOKING FOR TEACHER. P/T

native friendly English teacher

 Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds needed Mo, Wed, from 4-9pm for kids junior-high and high-school students Thur. 10:00 am -7:30 pm in Kamishinjo, HANKYU KYOTO LINE 10 mins. from Osaka (Umeda) by-semi express please call 066321-6108 1-5pm DISC ENGLISH SCHOOL Contact: disc1018 <disc_eng@yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.disc-school.co.jp [2401-12402015-02-19]

RELIABLE NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER FOR DOCTORS. Students

centered L.school URGENTLY requires RELIABLE Native English Teacher for Doctors class on Friday 14:00-15:30 in Hirano,Osaka. Rate starts 5,000yen/90min.&train cost. More than 5 years teaching experience in Japan preferable. Proper working visa needed. Send C/V to hello@gentimeless. com Contact: Kazuko Hill Ito <hello@gentimeless.com> Website: globalenglishnetwork.seesaa.net/ [2402-213-2015-02-19]

PT ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED.

Small yet friendly and growing school in Settsu looking for PT English teachers for kids and adults. Monday and Thursday afternoon – evening. Experience preferred but not required. Please send your CV and photo via email to abies_kids@ yahoo.co.jp Contact: abies taro <abies_kids@yahoo.co.jp> [2399707-2015-02-23]

NATIVE P/T TEACHERS REQUIRED. Native English teachers

required to teach kids on Saturdays for 4.5 and 8 hrs, frm 3,100 yen/ hrs. Located 15 Mins frm Namba. 1 year contract frm Apr 2015 . Experience teaching kids an advantage. Other opportunities also available. Pls send cover letter & CV to okubo-ises@istudy.com to arrange interview. Contact: ISES Tomo <okubo-ises@istudy.com>

[2438-2186-2015-03-20]

PT ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED.

ENGLISH TEACHER FOR KIDS.

Sunshine Kids Is looking for fun, motivated Native English Instructors. Osaka and Toyonaka. F/T and P/T work is available. Starting pay is 2200/lesson plus transportation. Must be native English speaker. Must be eager to learn. Sponsorship is possible. Please send resume to tony@ sunshine-kids.com Contact: Tony Romani <tonyromani73@gmail. com> Website: sunshine-kids.com

[2463-125-2015-03-18]

KIDS ENGLISH TEACHER. Sunshine Kids Is looking for fun, motivated Native English Instructors. Osaka and Toyonaka. F/T and P/T work is available. Starting pay is 2200/lesson plus transportation. Must be native English speaker. Must be eager to learn. Sponsorship is possible. Please send resume to tony@ sunshine-kids.com Contact: Tony Romani <tonyromani73@gmail. com> Website: sunshine-kids.com [2466-125-2015-03-14]

P/T NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER.

P/T Native American teacher for kids in Settsumotoyama, Kobe needed ASAP. Must be responsible and energetic. Mon.15:30-19:00 Tues.14:30-19:00 Wed.15:30-18:30 Thur.14:30-19:00 Fri.15:30-20:30, 2,000yen/hour + Trans. University Degree, experience and proper visa required. Pls email your CV with recent picture. Contact: LANGUAGE CLUB HANAKotoba <hanakotoba8758@ybb.ne.jp>

[2467-1062-2015-03-14]

OSAKA SCHOOL LOOKING FOR KIDS' TEACHER. We are looking

for a native speaker to teach together with a Japanese teacher. Our Kids' Class is 9:30AM-2:30PM, all transportation costs included with pay on payday. If you are interersted, please send your resume or CV to info@vacation-es. co.jp. We look forward to hearing from you! Contact: Lauren <info@ vacation-es.co.jp> Website: www. vacation-es.jp/ [2468-446-2015-03-18]

OSAKA SCHOOL LOOKING FOR KIDS' TEACHER!. We are looking

<seancrespin@yahoo.co.uk>

[2435-

2183-2015-03-05]

FULL-TIME HOSTEL WORKER.

Seeking Bilingual candidates (Japanese/English) for Osaka's biggest hostel, Drop Inn Osaka. Must have valid visa, hard work ethic and street smarts. Duties including cleaning, event planning, marketing, front desk and telephone inquiries. Visa sponsorship is possible for managerial level. Contact: dropinnosaka <info@ dropinn-osaka.com> Website: www. dropinn-osaka.com [2429-1683-201503-01]

Kitchen staff IRISH PUB LOOKING FOR KITCHEN STAFF. We are an irish pub in the

heart of Osaka. Looking for kitchen staff ASAP. Someone with cooking skills with no experience working in a kitchen is welcomed too. Friendly staff and friendly atmosphere guarantee! Contact: yannkkusan <yanikkusan@hotmail.com> [24421611-2015-03-06]

Hospitality PART-TIME HOSPITALITY HELP WANTED. Hotel Nikko Osaka

located right in the center of Osaka is looking for those interested in the part time jobs in Restaurant Service and Front Service. Interested applicants should have Japanese capability and full visa requirement to work in Japan. Please email us at morita.sh@hno.co.jp for more details. Contact: Hotel Nikko Osaka <morita.sh@hno.co.jp> Website: www.hno.co.jp [2409-2098-2015-02-22]]

Classes & Events Courses and Classes

exit). ¥500 off or Soft gel removal free on your first visit! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us! Salon hours: 09:0020:00 TEL: 078-857-6678 Contact: Pressnail <pressnail_sumiyoshi@ yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.salonde-press.com [2415-2112-2015-02-26] ENGLISH PLAYGROUP FOR 7-AND-UNDERS. Hi, my Japanese

wife and I are looking for mixed or English-speaking kids (7 years or younger?) to play with our very active 2- and 5-year-old boys in Kobe. Let me know if you're interested. Contact: clg <clgreen@ logos-japan.com> [2437-2184-201503-05]

For Sale USED FURNITURE FOR SALE, DELIVERY INCL. Dining table,

Sofa, Coffee Table, Closet, Desk w/ chair, bookshelf, china cabinet, and more. FurnituresForSale# for pictures and prices. Delivery included in Osaka City areas. Alex 09037030314 Contact: alexb <alex@abhousingosaka. com> Website: picasaweb.google. com/101688004226131128255/ FurnituresForSale# [2475-90-2015-

03-15]

Community Language Exchange HISTORY OF EUROPE-TALKS IN JPANESE OR ENGLISH. If you

interested in historiy, please bring your favorite topics to me. I know especially about Medieval Europe, the others. Please speak and teach, and I am going to tell you things which I studied. Contact: Shinya Hada <sinya-hada@hotmail.co.jp> [2351-2007-2015-02-18]

Kids ENGLISH PLAYGROUP FOR 7-AND-UNDER. Hi, my Japanese

P/T ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED.

Friendly, experienced English P/T teacher for kids Time: ( Mon.,Thu. or Fri. 3:00-6 or 7:00pm) Location: Osaka Tsurumi-ku, Moriguchi,or Nishinomiya Fixed salary + trans. Contact ; fun.shimamura@ gmail.com (Fun House Language School) Contact: Fun House <fun. shimamura@gmail.com> [2482-

wife and I are looking for mixed or English-speaking kids (7 years or younger?) to play with our very active 2- and 5-year-old boys in Kobe. Let me know if you’re interested. Contact: clg <clgreen@ logos-japan.com> [2437-2184-2015-

03-05]

3349-2015-03-20]

General

Sorry…

ENGLISH SPEAKING CLEANER WANTED. I'm looking for an

English speaking cleaner to clean a single bed apartment in Umeda Osaka. Activities include cleaning, washing & ironing once a week for a few hours. Preferably Saturdays. Price negotiable. Contact Sean on: 090-6827-1860. Contact: Sean

Health & Beauty ENGLISH SPEAKING NAIL SALON IN KOBE,SUMIYOSHI. Pressnail

salon is located just 1 min walk from JR Sumiyoshi station(north

Due to space restrictions we are unable to print all classified ads. See kansaiscene.com for more classifieds online.

Theater Umeda

Umeda

InterContinental Osaka Hotel Umeda Sky Building German Consulate 35F

Yodobashi Camera

JR Osaka Sta.

Mitsukoshi Isetan

Hankyu Grand Bldg

Ume

Lucua

Toho Annex Hep 5 Hep Navio

Shin Midosuji

Nishi Umeda

Ana Crowne Plaza

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Hotel Elsereine Osaka

6F Untitled

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Dojima Avanza 4F Junkudo

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Nishi Tenma

akanoshi ma Dori City Hall

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Church

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Kitahama

Ostec Exhibition Hall Shrine

Temple

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Boston Clam Shack

Kitahama

Hotel

Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Yodoyabashi

Hospital

US Consulate

Edobori

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National Museum of Art

Police Station

Shinmei Law Office

Tosabori River

Utsubo Park Bank

ACCJ Kansai

Oebashi Bank of Japan

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Post Office

Tanimachi Lin

Hanshin Expresswa y(Loop R ou te) N

Dojima Hotel

YMCA

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Drop Inn Osaka

Osaka YWCA

Hotel Kinki

Navio Toho Plex

Hankyu Dept.

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Hankyu Umeda Kinokuniya Sta. ABC Mart

Umekita Ship Craft Beer Base

Maruzen & Junkudo Club Noon

New Hankyu Osaka Hotel

Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital

Westin Hotel

Loft

0 Movie Theatre

200m

Blue Wave Inn

Nishiohashi

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line Nagahoribashi

Ali’s Kitchen

KitaHorie line

Naniw

Horie Park

MinamiHorie

2F Tezukayama Gallery

Dotonbori

OPA

Onzieme 11F Cinem Triangle @rt Triangle Park Apple Store Drop Clapper Fanj twice Lunar Grand Club Cafe Ghost Balabushka Ultralounge 4F

Cross Hotel

Coolabah 1F

Spotaka

L&L

river

Dublin Bay / Dublin Garden

Namba Hatch

amb a St

JR N

Junkudo

OCAT

Little Long Beach

Inari Max Value

Hotel T’point Murphy’s 6F

Fubar 2F

Suomachi-dori (Europe street)

The Blarney Stone B1

HigashiShinsaibashi 1F Zerro

Soemon-Cho

Shooters

Pure Osaka B1

Beer House 86 Karaoke 86

Hotel Metro the 21

Dotonbori

Namba Hips

Nam

Hotel Monterey

Tominaga Hospital

Daimaru Dept. South

Shinsaibashi

Best Western Hotel fino

3F GS Travel

Daimaru Dept.

The Silver Ball Planet Big Step

Midosuji

a-suji

Family Mart

Boy 5F

Daimaru Dept. North

Nikko Hotel

Cafe 1F Absinthe

Yotsubashi

Covent Garden

Uniqlo

El Pancho 8F

Yotsubashi

Kitahorie Hospital

Minami-senba

Tokyu Hands

Arthur Murray

Crysta Nagahori (underground shopping)

Nagahori dori Shinsaibashi

Sakaisuji

Mizuho Bank

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Shinmachi

Shinsaibashi/Namba

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Motomachi

Hanshin expressway (loop route) Namba Walk (underground) Sennic himae lineNipponbashi Nipponbashi sta. Kintetsu Nara line Namba walk

Namba Namba Sta.

Namba

Cine Pop Toho Cinemas Namba Visitors Information Hotel Center Ichiei Takashimaya Junkudo Dept. Store MUJI/LOFT Absinthe Swissôtel Tower Solaar 8F Nankai Records Osaka

NipponBashi

Nankai Namba Station

Fraser Residence

McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Namba PARKS

Pub Bar 30 2F

Namba -naka

Naniwa Post Office

6 Jack and Queen Naniwa Ward Office

Post Office

Bank

LABI Yamada Denki

0 Police Station

Hospital

Hotel

Church

Shrine

Temple

100m Movie Theatre

Kobe Sauna

Kobe Ikuta Junior High School

tetsudo Kobe kosoku

JR Motomachi sta.

Minato Bank

Movix Kyoto

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Kobe Kokusai Shochiku

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200m

Sanjo

Butterfly

Wakamatsu-dori

Yamatoji-dori

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The Gael World

Kawaramachi

Marui

Takashimaya

Shijo-dori Minamiza Theatre

Church

Shrine

Temple

Movie Theatre

Gion Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art Gion Hotel

Joko-in

0 Hotel

Hanamikoji-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

dori

Kawaramachi-

Kiraku Inn

Shira

Gion s hijo

Fuji Daimaru

Kyoto Royal BLDG.

Pontocho

Junkudo 7F Bal

Keihan Line

Sanjo Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

Hospital

Temple

Oike-dori

Sanjo-dori

Hankyu Line

Police Station

Shrine

Hotel Okura

OPA

Bank

Church

Sannomiya Hanadokeimae st.

Kyoto Royal Hotel Kyoto Asahi Kaikan Starbucks

Gokomachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

Tominokoji-dori

Yanaginobanba-dori

Sakaimachi-dori

Kyoto Post Office

Hotel

Kobe City Hall

Mina

Kawara Machi

Teramachi Area

San

Hospital

Aoyama

Shiyakushomae

Jomo Gas

Daimaru

Police Station

Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Kyoto City Hall

Tozai Subway Line

Bank

miya anno JR S Sun City OS Cinemas 7F Junkudo iya Mint Kobe m no San Tower Hotel Tokyu Inn SannomiyaRecords SOGO Dept. Marga 5F Kinokuniya 8F Kobe Kokusai Kaikan 1F HSBC Port liner

Post Office

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Flower road

Daimaru Dept.

Kainan lin

Ali’s Kitchen 3F

Sannomiy

Subway

Iznt 4F

Route 2 San Plaza Sannomiya Cine Marui Center Phoenix Center Plaza East Plaza West Junkudo Kowka 4F

Guild 2F

Kyukyoryuchi Daimarumae

Nankin-machi

Tokyu Hands

Sansei Hosp.

Midnight 5F Hobgoblin 7F a

Sanchika un

Hanshin line

Ikuta jinja

Mickey’s Club 5F Hotel Monterey

Motomachi

Kitanozaka

Ikuta Police Station

Hyogo-ken Prefectural Hall

Sh iei Ya ma te s

Oriental Dental Clinic 4F Hotel Tor Road

Kobe Grocers

Sanjo

Soraku Park

Hunterzak

Pearl Street

Kobe Mosque Kobe Womens St. Michael’s Junior International College School Yamate kansen

Kobe YWCA

1F Bistrot Cafe De Paris

Kitano-cho Tor Road

Sannomiya

Yamamoto-dori

200m

N Yasaka Jinja