Kansai’s Monthly Living Guide • Articles • Events • Classifieds • Maps + much more
Aug 2015 • issue 183
Osaka Craft Beer Map Inside
Craft Beer Booms 大人気のクラフトビール
Kick up your heels in Kitano Osaka’s hot new cabaret lounge Whet your appetite in Ura-Namba
www.kansaiscene.com
Plus+
3
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Inside this Issue 08
Kansai Scene provides monthly English articles, information and listings for visitors and residents of the Kansai area.
Craft beer is making a big splash in Kansai. It’s time we learned more about “the beer of the land.” Feature
Publisher............................................Daniel Lee Managing Editor..............Celia Polkinghorne Editor............................................. Jason Haidar
The Business of Beer
12
Craft Beer Map Wondering where to go for great craft beer in Osaka? We’ve made a map to get you started.
Production Manager...................Misa Matsui Accounts Manager...................... Michiko Lee Art & Cinema........................... Deanna Wright
Map
Event & Festival..........................Yuki Uchibori Live Music................................. Phillip Jackson Club................................................... Terumi Tsuji
Text: Jason Haidar
14
Kansai Scene
Cabaret and All That Jazz Cabaret culture has come to life in Dotonbori downstairs at The Burlesque!
Classifieds..............................Michael Gribben
Promotional Feature
Contact Kansai Scene General
mailbox@kansaiscene.com
16
Advertising sales@kansaiscene.com 06-6539-1717
Fax.
06-7635-4791
Address
Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Mojoworks KK
Feature
18
A BIT OF HISTORY Kansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011.
The Lingo
Language
20
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: Clare Midgley
Can’t tell your pilsners from your IPAs? We’ll get you on the right track.
Website kansaiscene.com
Write for Kansai Scene
A Tour of Kitano Discover the history, culture, art, and culinary delights of one of Kobe’s quaintest districts.
Editorial editor@kansaiscene.com Tel.
Text: Kansai Scene
Text: Kansai Scene
Foodspotting Wind your way through Ura-Namba for some of the best eats in town. Food & Drink
Text: Tom Law
What’s on Around Kansai Events & Festivals
p25
Cinema p23 Art
p30
Live Music
p32
Club
p36
Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint
Classifieds p39
Photo: Jason Haidar
About Kansai Scene
ON THE COVER: This month’s cover shot was taken by Jason Haidar at Craft Beer Base.
Maps p44
Connect with Kansai Scene… Catch up with KS on social media
Facebook kansaiscene
@kansaiscene
Instagram kansaiscene
Meetup Kansai-Scene
4
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Out & About
Got some news or need some advice about living in Kansai? Email your suggestions to editor@kansaiscene.com
A stunning photo from this year’s Kameraoke competition, taken at the Osaka Tenjin Matsuri by Sébastien Delbes. Send us your best seasonal shots to photo@kansaiscene.com and win a KS t-shirt if selected!
Lego Center Now Open Looking for a fun indoor summer activity for the kids? Parents, kids and Lego fans across Kansai will be pleased to hear that the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Osaka opened its doors a few months a go, right next door to the Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium in the Tempozan Marketplace Building. The center offers hours of fun for all ages and includes a wonderful Lego brick diorama of Osaka’s landmarks complete with Koshien, Dotonbori and Osaka Castle, an immersive 4D cinema attraction and lots and lots and lots of Lego bricks to keep little fingers amused for hours. Tickets are ¥2,500 for adults (age 13+), ¥2,000 for kids (3–12 years) and free for under 2s. legolanddiscoverycenter.jp/osaka/en
Final Four Announced After a heated round of online voting, the final four bands have been chosen to battle it out live as part of the Kansai Music Conference. Congratulations to The Mist Acoustics, Sabado Boys Band, Contagion and Union Trouble. They will battle it out at IZNT in Kobe on Sep 19 so head out to show your support and help decide the winning act. kansaimusicconference.com
World Record Bon-Odori Attempt In celebration of 400 years since the Dotonbori area of Osaka was created, on August 16, 3,000 people will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest Bon Odori Dance. Although entry for participants is closed, the event will likely be an amazing spectacle. So grab your cameras and head down to Dotonbori to see if they manage it. In order to successfully break the record, all dancers must perform in unison and so have had to learn and practice the dance using online videos. The fun starts from 5pm. www.dotonbori-bon-dance.jp/en
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
KS Party @ The Blarney Stone We had a great turnout again for our July party at The Blarney Stone in Shinsaibashi. As well as our popuar lucky draw, our new Autograph Bingo game proved a big hit with guests. Thanks to everyone that came down!
Party Report ď„ł July 18
7
8
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Feature
The Craft Beer Splash The craft has been honed, and ji-biru is booming. If you haven’t already, it’s time to sit up and take notice of “the beer of the land.” Text & Images: Jason Haidar • Translation: Endo Tazlu
“The Dutch make sake from grapes, and they also make sake from barley. I had a chance to drink this latter, and it was absolutely horrible. It had no flavor at all, and they call it bier…” Sacrilege as it may seem, this was apparently the first impression of the Tokugawa Shogunate after tasting beer for the first time when the Dutch brought it to Edo as part of a tribute in 1727. The statement was published at the time in the Dutch record, Oranda Mondo (Discussions with the Hollanders). No one could have predicted the meteoric rise of beer in Japan and that indeed, its main players would all be Japanese brands. A scene that even today it is still on the up and up with the new breed of craft beer – ji-biru – that has been gaining momentum in leaps and bounds.
The Birth of Ji-biru
Ji-biru, which literally translates to “beer of the land” is what we would associate with “craft beer” or “micro beer” in the West. These days, the term kurafuto biru is also used to distinguish between the high-quality beers produced after the birth of craft beer in Japan from the not-so-highquality stuff. Japanese craft beer proliferated after a strict minimum-brewing law in place from 1908 was relaxed. The law stipulated that in order to have a brewing license, a brewer had to produce 180,000 liters a year. This was lifted in 1940 to
1.8 million liters, and raised again to two million in 1959, making it impossible for anyone to get into the brewing game that wasn’t already established. All this finally changed in 1994 when a new law lowered the minimum brewing capacity to 60,000 liters a year. This catalyzed the craft beer movement in Japan, but it was a case of first comes quantity, and much later comes quality. “The overwhelming positive was that you had craft beer, but this explosion of microbrewing led to more than 400 microbreweries popping up all over Japan – most in the simple hope of making a big profit rather than any real desire to make well-crafted beer,” explained Mark Meli, a regular contributor to Japan Beer Times magazine and the author of Craft Beer in Japan – the definitive English guide to all things Japanese craft beer. Everyone and their obachan was getting into the ji-biru business; restaurants, hotels, museums, you name it. “Today we have about 240 craft beer breweries in Japan, a lot of the others closed because the beer was terrible,” Meli said.
The Scene in Kansai
Since about 2012, craft beer bars have been mushrooming throughout Kansai with new places continuously popping up. The craft haunts with a bit of a longer history, like Qbrick, which just celebrated its 10-year anniversary, and Beer Belly, opened after the Minoh beer brand was launched in 1996, have
blazed the trail, helping to pave the ji-biru landscape and build the now fast-growing scene. “Kansai has a really strong community for craft beer ... part of that is having so many (craft beer bars) in the same area,” says Mike Post, also known as Mr. Beer Zen, the founder of the quarterly Beer Zen magazine. Having just celebrated its two-year anniversary, the magazine has also been instrumental in driving the scene with its simple goal: “to connect people to people, and of course people to great beer!” “The scene has steadily grown with a big boom in 2012 with Yellow Ape, Molto, Craft Beer Base, and Kamikaze opening and another big boom this past March with a lot of owners opening their second shops,” Post explained. As far as what is driving the scene, the craft beer culture is more in line with a “foodie” culture, which is reflected in the chic atmosphere and mouthwatering food served at these places. This might also explain why the patrons differ from what one usually expects, particularly in a Western country, when ‘heading out to the pub for a pint.’ “Women drive the scene to a certain degree. They know what’s cool, what’s going on. There is a misconception that beer is a man’s drink in the West, but everyone likes beer!” explained Post. It’s not limited to women just knowing what’s happening in the scene either – they are also brewing the beer. “More than half the brewers in Kansai
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Left: Ai Tani. Above: Minoh Beer at Beer Belly. Right: Taps at Smoke House Ape. Far right: Beer Zen publisher Maek Post
are women,” said Mark Meli. They are drinking it, making it and running the bars that sell it. Probably the most renowned in Kansai craft beer, Minoh brewery was founded in 1996 when a successful liquor store owner named Masaji Ohshita established the brewery and charged his three daughters with running the place. Ever since, the Ohshita sisters have been concocting some very tasty brews that have won them many Japanese and International awards. Another influential woman on the scene, as the owner and operator of two very successful craft beer bars and one craft beer bottle shop, Ai Tani is determined to bring the exploding Japanese craft beer scene to the world. Her flagship shop for her brand Craft Beer Base just celebrated its third anniversary this year, with Craft Beer Base Seed (her bottle shop) opening in 2013, and Craft Beer Base Bud (a bar) budding to life just this year. Having traveled around Europe to learn from the best, Ai also acts as a judge in Japan and abroad for international beer competitions. Developing a refined palate to match her keen business mind, she is a growing force on the ji-biru movement locally and abroad.
The Future of the Scene
While future of the general scene looks bright, it still has a long way to go. “Right now, it’s not a destination for breweries, but if you like craft beer and you visit you will be pleasantly surprised with what’s on offer,” said Mike Post. There used to be more of a focus on German-style beers in Japan’s craft beer scene, but the trend has now shifted towards American styles. Mark Meli explained that “a tidal wave of American craft beer has come in and the companies with the most success, with some exceptions, are doing American styles.” The popularity of American craft beer in Japan has inspired many breweries to be bolder with their use of hops, and IPAs are becoming a more fashionable style; a stark contrast to the lagers turned out by the big four. As for the obstacles holding back craft beer locally, one is price – at ¥1,000 a pint, due in part to heavy taxes and the need to import hops, double the standard draft beer price tag is enough to chase people away. Another factor is the availability of craft beer to regular local watering holes. Izakaya are usually under contract with one of the big four brewers, and as result, only carry their beer, but Meli thinks it will change. “I’d like to see it in izakayas and I think it will
happen. Ten years ago in the States you had to look for it, now you can find it in gas stations.” In Japan there is such a close tie between beer and food that Maek Post believes a key way forward is understanding pairings between the two. “As Japanese people learn an IPA goes well with this and a Stout goes well with that, craft beer will become more popular … that’s part of the marketing,” he said. While the shop boom in Kansai has been spreading craft beer culture and sales, it is a niche market, making up about one percent of the total market in Japan. However, that hasn’t stopped the major Japanese brands from seeing the potential money in it. They too have thrown their hats in the ring, hoping to cash in on the budding popularity with all four major breweries rolling out craft beer lines. The craft beer scene in Kansai has dramatically changed from just a few pubs 10 years ago to more than 50 craft beer spots currently, the majority being in Osaka. With Minoh beer still going strong, and promising up-and-coming players such as the Kyoto Brewing Company turning heads at craft beer festivals around the region, there’s no better time than now to get out there and see what all the hype is about.
9
10
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Right: Mark Meli, author of Craft Beer Japan
More Craft Beer Info
Below: Craft Beer Base Bud
Turn to page 12 for a map of craft beer spots in Osaka. Don’t forget to check out the Craft Beer Corner featured in Kansai Scene each month for upto-date info on the latest ji-biru haunts throughout Kansai. Craft Beer Japan by Mark Meli, available on Amazon or from Craft Beer Base, Umeda Pick up a copy of the quarterly Beer Zen magazine at your local craft beer watering hole. The Japan Beer Times is a free, bilingual, quarterly magazine written and produced by beer enthusiasts for beer enthusiasts as well as new drinkers.
クラフトビールの魅力 見事な醸造技術で、地ビールのイメージを大きく向上させたクラフトビー ル。かつてないブームを迎えている今、地元産の美味しいビールに出会うチ ャンスだ。 文と写真:ジェイソン・ハイダー
「オランダ人はブドウから酒を造り、麦から も酒を造るそうだ。麦酒を飲んでみたが思 いのほか不味く、あじわいも何もあったもの ではない。名前はビールというらしい」 1727年頃に記されたオランダ商館長と 幕府役人の問答集『和蘭問答』 からの一節 である。献上品として江戸城内に持ち込ま れたビールを、当時の八代将軍徳川吉宗も 味見したのだろうか。 やがて日本ではピルスナータイプのラガ ービール醸造が隆盛し、ビッグ4と呼ばれる 国産メーカーが登場する。 レストラン、居酒 屋、スーパー、コンビニなどでビールが売ら れ、日本全国で地ビールが生産されること になろうとは、当時の将軍も知る由はない。
地ビールの誕生
日本の「地ビール」は、西洋のクラフトビー ルやマイクロビールに相当する概念だ。最 近すっかり定着した「クラフトビール」とい う呼称には、玉石混交の地ビールより高品 質であるという差別化の意味合いも含まれ ている。 日本のクラフトビールは、1908年施行の 酒税法で規定された「最低製造数量基準」 が緩和されることで誕生した。もともと酒類 製造免許の取得には最低でも年間18万リ ットルの製造が義務づけられていたが、こ の最低製造量が1940年には180万リット ル、1959年には200万リットルと引き上げ られ、既存の業者以外は参入不可能になっ ていた。これが1994年の酒税法改正で一
気に年間6万リッターまで引き下げられ、地 ビールブームを引き起こしたのである。だ が当初のブームは質より量を重視する生産 者が目立ち、品質が追い付いてくるまでに 長い時間がかかった。 「地ビールの誕生は大きな前進でした。 ビール醸造がブームになり、日本全国で 400以上もの小規模ビール醸造所ができ ました。でも多くはひと儲けを狙っただけの 参入者で、本当に高品質なクラフトビール を生産しようという志の人が少なかったの も事実です」 そんな当時の状況を教えてくれるのは、 日本初のクラフトビール専門誌「ジャパン・ ビア・タイムズ」のレギュラー執筆者を務め るマーク・メリさん。英語で書かれたビール
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
CRAFT BEER HOUSE molto
ガイドの決定版『クラフト・ビア・イン・ジャパ ン』の著者でもある。 「やがてレストラン、ホテル、美術館など で、さまざまな人が地ビールのビジネスに 関わるようになりました。今日では日本に約 240のクラフトビール醸造所があります。ビ ールの出来が悪かった醸造所の多くは閉鎖 されました」
関西のクラフトビールシーン
関西でクラフトビールの店が次々にオー プンしたのは2012年頃のことだが、その 背景には先駆者たちが築いてきた歴史も ある。10周年を祝ったばかりの「Qbrick」 や、1996年に設立された箕面ビール直営店 「BEER BELLY」などが、急成長を続ける 地ビールシーンの土台を作った。 「関西にはクラフトビールの根強いコミ ュニティがありますが、同じ地域にたくさん のクラフトビールバーが密集しているのも その一因です」 そう説明するのは、季刊誌「ビア・ゼン」 を主宰するミスター・ビア・ゼンことマイク・ ポストさん。発行2周年を迎えた同誌は「人 と人をつなぎ、人と美味しいビールをつな ぐ」をモットーに日本のクラフトビールを応 援してきた。 「YELLOW APE、MOLTO、CRAFT BEER BASE、KAMIKAZEなどの店が次 々に開店した2012年の大ブーム以来、ク ラフトビールシーンは着実に成長してきま した。これらの店の多くが今年3月に相次い で2号店を出し、現在は第2のブームが起き ています」 クラフトビールの店は、どこもシックな雰 囲気で美味しい料理を提供している。クラフ トビールと食文化は切り離せない。 「パブに 1杯飲りにいく」という西洋文化とは一線を 画している点に、各店オーナーたちのこだ わりがあるとポストさんは指摘する。 「ブームの一翼を担っているのは女性客 です。女性はセンスが良いものを好み、流行 にとても敏感。西洋ではビールが男性の飲 み物だという誤解がありますが、やっぱりビ ールはみんな大好きですからね」 クラフトビールのファンだけでなく、ビー
Bar Tsuchinoko
ル造りに関わっている人にも女性が多い。メ リさんによると、関西のビール醸造家の半 数以上は女性。飲むのも、造るのも、店を経 営するのも、今や女性が主役なのだという。 おそらく関西のクラフトビールでもっとも 有名な「箕面ビール」も、女性がリーダーを 務めている。酒屋の経営で成功した大下正 司さんが1996年に設立し、大下香緒里さ んら3人の実娘に経営が引き継がれた。近 年も素晴らしい味のビールで国内外の賞に 輝いている。 クラフトビールシーンを牽引する女性と いえば、谷和さんも忘れてはならない。経営 する「CRAFT BEER BASE」 (バー)は今 年で開店3周年を祝ったばかりで、2013 年開店の「CRAFT BEER SEED」 (ボト ルショップ)、今年オープンした「CRAFT BEER BASE BUD」 (バー) も好評。3つの 店舗を拠点に、日本のクラフトビール文化を 世界に発信している。ヨーロッパ中を旅行し てさまざまな有名ビール醸造所を訪ねた谷 さんは、国内外のビールコンペティションで 審査員の経験も豊富。意欲的なビジネスマ インドと繊細な味覚で、地ビールムーブメン トを推進中だ。
ブームの未来
クラフトビールの未来は明るそうだが、まだ 道のりは長いとポストさんは語る。 「クラフトビールが目当てで関西にやっ てくる人はまだまだ少数。それでも、関西に 来たクラフトビールファンを驚かせるレベル には達しています」 日本のクラフトビールといえば、これま ではドイツ流のビール醸造が主流だった。 しかし今ではアメリカ流のスタイルにトレン ドが移行している。メリさんがこの状況を 説明する。 「いくつか例外があるものの、現在成功 を収めている会社の多くはアメリカンスタ イルを採用しています。アメリカ産クラフト ビールの人気は、大胆なホップの使い方な どで日本のビール醸造家たちを開眼させま した。インディアペールエール(IPA)にもお 洒落なイメージが定着して、4大メーカーが 生産するラガービールとは対照的な立ち位
Dig Beer Bar
置を獲得しています」 クラフトビールの人気は、まだ地元だけ に留まっている。その原因のひとつが、1パ イント約1,000円という価格だ。高い酒税と ホップの輸入コストのせいで、通常の生ビー ルと比べて倍近い値段になってしまう。 もうひとつの障壁は、一般的な酒場で入 手しにくいこと。居酒屋はたいてい4大メー カーのどこかと契約を交わしており、結果と して1社独占のような店も多い。だがこの状 況もいずれは変わっていくだろうとメリさん は見ている。 「居酒屋でクラフトビールが扱われるの を見たいし、いつか実現できると思う。10 年前は探さなければ入手不可能だったクラ フトビールも、アメリカではガソリンスタンド で売られていますから」 日本ではビールと料理に深いつながりが ある。だからその相性について理解を深め ることが、ブーム拡大の鍵をにぎるとポスト は主張する。 「IPAにはこの料理が合う、スタウトには このスナックがいいなどと、日本のファンが 独自に味覚を開拓していけばさらに人気が 高まるでしょう。これはマーケティングの問 題でもありますね」 関西では店舗単位のブームがクラフトビ ール文化の普及に貢献してきた。クラフトビ ールの売り上げは伸びているが、ニッチな 市場なので日本全体のビール市場の1%に 過ぎない。 しかしこの現象に大手も反応し た。商機があると見るや、4大メーカー全社 がクラフトビールの生産ラインを動かし始 めている。 わずか数店舗で始まった10年前の状況 から、関西のクラフトビールシーンは激的に 変化した。現在は大阪を中心に50以上のク ラフトビールスポットがある。箕面ビールに は以前として大きな存在感があり、京都醸 造株式会社などの有望な生産者が地域の クラフトビールフェスティバルなどで頭角を 現している。 こんな今こそ、ブームの現場でクラフトビ ールの魅力をとことん体験してみてはいか がだろうか。
11
Kita area New Hankyu Osaka Hotel
InterContinental Osaka Hotel Umeda Sky Building
Westin Hotel
Molto
Lucua
a
Herbis Osaka
Dojima River Forum ABC Hall
Beer Belly
Edobori YMCA
Mitsui Sumitomo Bank
Osaka City Public Hall
Utsubo Park
Keihan Main
Na
niw
aba
shi
Line
Kitahama Yellow Ape Craft
Ostec Exhibition Hall
Dig Beer Bar
Museum of Oriental Ceramics
City Hall
Qbrick Garage 39
Kitahama
Rihga Royal Hotel
ma Dori
Yodoyabashi
Science Museum
Higobashi
National Museum of Art
APA Hotel
(Loop Route)
Nakanoshi
Tosabori River
a
Craft Ma
Nishi Tenma
Ana Crowne Plaza
Bank of Japan
Keihan
im sh
US Consulate
Hanshin Expressway
Watana Line oshima -Nakan
r
o
N
Hotel Elsereine Osaka
Oebashi
ive
an k a
e
Kita Shinchi
i bebash
aR
jim Do
Tanimachi Lin
Dojima Avanza 4F Junkudo
Dojima Hotel
NTT Data
Dai-2 Bldg.
e
Dojima
e
Ma shin . Han a Sta ine im ai L ush Toz Fuk JR
OSA
Craft Beer Base Dai-3 Bud Bldg.
ji Lin
e
in in L
Yotsubashi Lin
Fukushima
Hotel Kansai
Dai-4 Bldg.
osu
R
Dai-1 Bldg.
Tower Records
Kita Shinchi
.2
o te N
ou
Maru Bldg.
Umeda Burg7
E-ma
Mid
Ritz Carlton
Nishi Umeda
Herbis Ent
H Hilton Hotel
a
Hilton Plaza West
ta. Craft Beer Base aS Seed ed m Asahiya U Hanshin Bookstore hin s Dept. an
ade
Ogimachi Dori
med
Hotel Granvia
Ogim Park
idori Arc
Higash
Shin Midosuji
JR Osaka Mitsukoshi Daimaru Isetan Umeda Osaka Station City
ri
Marciero Hankyu
shi U Higa
Visitors’ Information Center
Hotel Kinki
Hep 5 Hep Navio Hankyu Grand Bldg Navio Toho Plex Hankyu Dept. Sonezaki Police H.Q.
d Ume
Craft Beer Base
M
Toho Annex
Osaka Loop Line
do
a-
jim
ko
iya
ho
i-c
k za
a
ak
Hankyu Umeda Sta. Kinokuniya ABC Mart
Yodobashi Camera
Umekita Ship
Maruzen & Junkudo N
Beer Stand Molto
Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital
German Consulate 35F
Loft
Theater Umeda
Namba Shrine
Shinmachi
Hearton Hotel
Oonoke
Life
Nishiohashi
Kamikaze
KitaHorie
Kitahorie Hospital
t (shopping
Triangle Park
a.
HigashiShinsaibashi
NOLA
Dotonbori
Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn
Namba
Swiss么tel Nankai Osaka Fraser Residence
shi
Minami area
Naniwa Sports Center Naniwa Post Office Naniwa Ward Office
Nipponbas
Namba PARKS
Misono Building Namba Plaza Hotel
MUJI/LOFT Tower Records
Nankai Namba Station
Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium
Namba -naka
Namba Oriental Hotel
Cine Pop
Visitors Hotel Information Center Takashimaya Ichiei Dept. Store
ba
Kaneyoshi Ryokan Wa Hot Pla
Sennichimae line
Toho Cinemas Namba
Motomachi
Fujiya Hotel
Soemon-Cho
Namba
JR N
amb
a St
Suomachi-dori (Europe street)
Tachibana
Namba Sta.
ma
Hotel Monterey
ba
Ten
Comfort Hotel
Namba Hips
Nam
Inari
Cross Hotel
Kansai Tourist Information Center
Tominaga Hospital
Smoke House Ape
Daimaru Dept. South
Cinem @rt
Dotonbori Hotel
Ark
Daimaru Dept.
Osaka Shochikuza
Namba Hatch
OCAT
Shinsaibashi
Daimaru Dept. North
street)
River
Nagahoribash
Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line
Nikko Hotel
APA Hotel
Dotonbori
Nest Hotel
Shinsaibashi
Big Step
Orange Stree
Hearton Hotel
Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
OPA
Horie Park
MinamiHorie a-suji
Minamimorimachi
t Beer ap
Toyoko Inn
Minami-semba
Sakaisuji line
Sakaisuji Line
Hanshin Expressway (Moriguchi Route)
AKA
Nagahori dori
Naniw
Ogimachi
Marca
Hotel Via Inn
Yotsubashi
7-ELEVEN
Mizuho Bank
Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)
Fujiyama
Yotsubashi line
Kids Plaza Osaka
machi
Arcadian
Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office
Midosuji line
Amidaike
Big Beans Supermarket
Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)
Orix Theater
arca->archa
NipponBashi
14
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Let’s paint the town! Start the car, we know a whoopee spot, where the drinks are cold and the dancing’s hot – Osaka’s boldest cabaret lounge, The Burlesque. Text: Kansai Scene • Images: Jason Haidar
Cabaret culture has come to life in Dotonbori downstairs at The Burlesque! If you’re not already humming John Kander’s All That Jazz as you descend the stairs into this atmospheric basement lounge, it won’t be long before the opening song of the 1975 musical Chicago is being acted out in all its saucy suggestiveness right before your eyes. Utilising an American burlesque, variety-show format, the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed dancers engage their audience by creating elaborate tableau to jazzy, mood-fitting music, under dramatic lighting in their colorful, sequined costumes, with large, white, feathery angel wings, and any other exotic props at their disposal. The performances aren’t confined to the stage either – these bodacious, leggy, high-heeled and stocking-clad lasses fling themselves effortlessly between stage and bar, sending audience heads from side-to-side, like open-mouthed, sideshow clowns. The heat kicks up a notch when purple spotlights beam down on the three silver dance poles suspended from the ceiling above the bar. In synchronized pole-dancing spectacles, five of these cheeky dancers maneuver upside-down and around the shafts making it easy to see why they have to pass auditions before they are invited to take the stage (or bar). Ladies still honing their craft and awaiting their auditions can be found among the troop of friendly bunny girls with tall ears and white cotton tails serving your drinks. The deal is ¥6,000 (before 9pm) or ¥7,000 (after 9pm) for 90 minutes all-you-can-drink draft beer, shochu, ginger ale, and oolong tea. For an extra ¥3,000 you can be seated in the special VIP area and add whiskey to your all-you-can-drink menu. There is also “Talk Time” where you can request the company of whichever lady you please – ¥2,000 for 15 minutes.
The vibe is international with a mix of dancers from Russia, Brazil, Japan, and others. Special tip tickets are available for purchase for tipping your favorite dancers. Look forward to the novelty acts, such as a solo dance from Beyoncé! No, not that one – this Beyoncé is the Brazilian-born pole dancer ranked no. 6 in the world! Beyoncé takes being fit, toned, and flexible to a whole new level, and after you see her impossible moves you’ll understand why! Another exotic solo to watch out for is the Japanese dance by Aoi, performed as a geisha in kimono. Think of the dramatic, seductive, postmodern stage performance by Sayuri in the film Memoirs of a Geisha, but a touch more revealing. Open from 8pm every night but Monday, the ladies of The Burlesque are longing to entertain you! Welcoming ladies and gentlemen, girls and guys alike – this is a show for everyone (over 20 of course!). So kick up your heels and come on down for a night on the town ….and all that jazz.
The Burlesque • Open: 8pm–1am • Closed: Mondays • Showtimes: Main shows are from 8:30, 10:30, & 12:30 every night • Cost: ¥6,000 before 9pm; ¥7,000 after 9pm Discounts for groups of 2 or more • Tel: 06-6484-0133 • Access: Midosuji Subway Line, Namba or Shinsaibashi Stn, 1-min walk from Dotonbori bridge • URL: en.the-burlesque.com
16
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Feature
Seeking Sophistication in Kobe’s Kitano It’s international, quaint, sleek and stylish. With so much to discover, come on and kick up your heels in Kitano. Text & Images: Clare Midgley
Set into the hillside where Kobe’s streets begin to give way to the slopes of majestic Mount Maya, paying a visit to Kitano is a bit like suddenly skidding a few thousand miles west to Europe or east to America. Historically the home of international traders, attracted in the late nineteenth century to overseas business by the opening of Kobe Port, this refined area of the city proudly displays their remaining residences, many now converted to museums. Boutiques, cafés and restaurants offering globally-inspired goods and cuisines, plus a well-established reputation for jazz, add to the international flavor emanating from the area and make Kitano a target for Japanese and overseas tourists alike. To reach Kitano, the clue is in the name – you need to head north. Just a
few minutes after leaving Sannomiya you’ll arrive at the foot of Kitanozaka Avenue, Kitano’s leafy main street that stretches steeply towards the mountain. If you want to see Kitano’s historical upper reaches, plan to attempt the climb while you’ve still got plenty of energy; alternatively, hop on the bottlegreen Kobe City Loop bus. On the way up you’ll pass pale, attractive ivydraped buildings and well-manicured stone flower beds that give the street a splash of colour. At the top of the avenue, wind your way through the narrow streets to Kitano-cho Plaza, an open, stepped arena where statues of jazz musicians preside, immortalized during their instrumental solos. A French-style plaque announces a formal ‘amitié’ between Kitano and Paris’ Montmartre, and it’s true that with the Europeanesque
buildings, the sun shining and an artist on the steps with his easel, there’s more than a fleeting connection. Here on the hilltop you’ve entered the land of the Ijinkan, the 20 or so multi-coloured international residences, regrettably reduced in number by the 1995 Hanshin Earthquake. To see inside, either pay a few hundred yen per Ijinkan or buy entry to eight at once for ¥3,000. Each contains its own morsel of history. English House, complete with London ‘Baker Street’ tube sign and Sherlock Holmes museum, was originally occupied by an English doctor. Weathercock Mansion, the only brick Ijinkan, built by German trader Godfried Thomas, overlooks the plaza with its iconic weathervane, boasting an interior that fuses traditional German style with Art Nouveau.
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Weathercock House
Sone
It’s not only Kitano’s residences that enhance the international ambience. At the tourist office in Kitano-cho Plaza, the helpful staff point out the diversity of religious buildings in the area; in addition to Shinto shrines, Kitano hosts a mosque, a synagogue, a Jain temple and a number of churches, including Baptist and Catholic. While most are in regular use by Kitano’s international residents, some of the churches are nothing more than replicas, used to conduct marriage ceremonies for Japanese couples. Kitano’s popularity and prominence as a wedding location forms a significant part of the area’s character. Large, glamorous hotels and elegant venues such as Kitano Garden and The Seasons Landmark give off an air of opulence, and at the weekend you’re likely to encounter not just one but several wedding parties as you stroll around the neighborhood. Either out of politeness or necessity, happy couples seem very tolerant of bystanders watching as they get showered in confetti. Despite the recent steady decline of the Japanese marriage rate, by all appearances in Kitano love is blooming and the wedding business is booming. Wander down from the hilltop plaza and you’ll pass any number of chic little boutiques selling gifts, jewellery, and other bits and pieces that make them highly browsable. Cute cafés abound, or you can stop off and sample some creamy matcha ice cream topped with azuki beans from one of Kobe Rokko Farm’s two Kitano outlets.
England House
Everything from well-heeled hair salons to the ever-present konbini blends in quite intentionally with the area’s muted, classy tones; for novelty’s sake, check out a 7-11 decked in grey and black rather than the habitual red and green. Even chain coffee shops like Tully’s fit in well, occupying existing historic buildings; the Kitano Starbucks is well camouflaged inside a fetching blue-and-white, two-storey wooden house, reconstructed using the original materials following the 1995 earthquake. Your Frappuccino will taste exactly the same, of course. On your way back down, pause for a while on the terrace of Bistrot Café de Paris with a cold beer and a sweet from their fabled dessert tray. With its red-and-white chequered tablecloths and Pernod umbrellas, this unmistakably French locale provides the perfect vantage point for soaking up the sophisticated Kitano atmosphere. “Kobe is all about style,” says Emanuel Azzouz, the owner, referring to the stream of immaculately dressed passers-by who parade in front of his restaurant every day. Azzouz is part of the close-knit, friendly community of international residents in Kitano. The area’s profusion of restaurants serving global cuisine reflects the diverse origins of its inhabitants; as well as French food you can choose from Italian, Spanish, Turkish, Brazilian, Indian, Thai, and more. Lotus, with its display of colourful woven bags on sale outside, serves Vietnamese and Asian cuisine infused with fresh, zingy flavours – try
Lotus
Vietnamese spare ribs plus green papaya and prawn salad for an excellent dinner pairing. Later on, how about a spot of jazz? Yet another jewel in its armory of hidden treasures, Kitano’s long standing as the hub of Japanese jazz culture continues to keep visitors entertained. Every October the Kobe Jazz Street festival comes to the area, but you can see live jazz any night of the year in the area’s handful of jazz venues, such as SONE, Ellie’s, and Green Dolphin. Entry (usually paid on departure) ranges from around ¥600 to ¥2,000 per person, usually without food or drinks, but once inside you can enjoy live performances all evening. A relaxing way to round off your Kitano tour. Access: JR, Hankyu, or Hanshin lines, Sannomiya Stn
17
18
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Language
Beer Lingo There are dozens, if not hundreds of brewing styles, and each country, district, prefecture, and brewery can produce different takes on each variety. From the smoked beer known as Rauch, ラオホ raoho, to the American Porter, アメリカン ポーター amerikan pohtah, and the Belgian Strong Ale, ベルジャン ストロング エール berujian sutorongu eeru, there are so many styles and names that it can be a touch overwhelming for someone new to the scene. Below are five of the most popular to get you started.
Types of beer Weizen ヴァイツェン
vuaitsuen
Pilsner ピルスナー
pirusunaa
Pale Ale ペールエール
peeru eeru
India Pale Ale (IPA) インディア・ペール・エール
india peeru eeru
Stout スタウト
sutauto
A weizen is a wheat beer with very low bitterness, low to medium body, and is high in esters (the fruity flavors and aroma in beer, usually associated with ales and produced by higher fermentation temperatures). Weizens often have a banana and clove flavor. Because of their fruitiness, weizens are great summer beers and often popular with the ladies. Good pilsners have clean, light malt flavors like grain and crackers, backed up by herbal and grassy hops. As with many beer styles, the flavors can vary a lot between countries and brewers. German-style pilsners are dry and crisp, and the bitter flavors tend to linger in the aftertaste. In comparison, Czech-style pilsners tend to have a richer malt character and a softer, rounder feel. Pale ale is a beer made by warm fermentation using predominantly pale malt. So called because they are brewed with more lightly roasted “pale” malts, pale ales typically have a more equal malt-to-hop balance. The hops are definitely present, but fairly moderate. The higher proportion of pale malts results in a lighter color. IPAs tend to be more aggressively hopped, with the balance of hops-and-malts definitely tipping in favor of the hops (the hop plant is used in beer to give it a bitter, tangy taste). One of the most popular beer styles on the market today, the India Pale Ale (IPA) saturates beer drinkers’ palates with its sometimes over-the-top hoppy flavor profile. The style originates from England where in 1774, the British Empire appointed its first governor to India and began heavy trading with beer being one of the many items. Stouts are black in color with the exception of oatmeal and imperial stouts, which can vary from dark copper to black. These dark beers are made using roasted malt or roasted barley, hops, water and yeast. Stouts were traditionally the generic term for the strongest or stoutest porters produced by a brewery, typically 7%-8% alcohol. There are a number of variations including Baltic porter, milk stout, imperial stout, and the most common variation is dry stout, exemplified by Guinness Draught, the world’s best-selling stout.
Note: Any beer style that includes the word “Imperial” is usually quite high in hops and definitely higher in alcohol. “Imperials” were usually beers that were made in one country and shipped to another, often destined for the mouths of royalty (hence the name Imperial). Another invention of necessity, the long journeys meant that the properties of higher alcohol and hops were required to act as preservatives. If you think IPAs are strong and hoppy, you should try an Imperial IPA!
20
KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #183 AUGUST 2015 | kansaiscene.com
Food & Drink
Foodspotting The narrow lanes of Ura-Namba – “the back of Namba” – are home to some of Osaka’s many wellkept culinary secrets. Here are three of the best… Text & Images: Tom Law
Sashimi
Shimotaya
Yakitori
Yakiniku
Enya
Yakiniku Suzaku
Address: Nanbasennichimae 14–6 • Open:
Address: Nanbasennichimae 14–18 •
5pm–1am (last order 12am) • Price Range:
Open: 5pm–10pm (Sun–Thu), 5pm–2am
Address: Nanbasennichimae 15–24
Approx. ¥3,000/person • Access: Namba
(Fri–Sat) • Price: Approx. ¥2,000/person •
• Open: 5pm–11pm (Sun–Thu), 5pm–
Nankai Stn, 2-min walk • enya-food.jp
Access: Namba Nankai Stn, 4-min walk •
The specialities at this classy but unpretentious old wooden house are oden (vegetables, meat, egg, and tofu soaked in a delicious broth), sumibiyaki (chargrilled chicken or beef), and sashimi. The sashimi (¥980) is especially good. Beautifully presented and deliciously fresh, we are served an assortment of five types of fish (sole, sea bream, salmon, tuna and amberjack) on a colorful platter of grated daikon and red cress. Though most diners seem to be drinking Premium Malts (¥450), there is an extensive sake list to explore. Try the fun taster menu, which allows you to sample three different local sake (¥980). Don’t be deterred if the restaurant appears full at first sight – it is deceptively spacious. The ground-floor counter-diner seats about eight, as does the middle floor, where the kimonoclad owner Futami Iguchi chats cheerfully with her customers. But go up another flight of stairs and you reach a cool split-level loft, with seating for at least 20 people.
12:30am (Fri–Sat) • Price Range: Approx. ¥3,000/person • Access: Namba Nankai Stn, 2-min walk • chikuchikuya.com
A few doors down from Shimotaya is Enya, a lively izakaya with a great atmosphere. Unlike the singer of the same name, this Enya attracts a youngish crowd and treats them to an eclectic soundtrack. This might be the only place in town serving up both Radiohead and Bruno Mars alongside skewers of tender chicken (¥100–¥220 a piece). As you’d expect in a yakitori joint, chicken dominates the menu. And we’re not just talking smoky chunks of breast and thigh, but pretty much every body part imaginable, from skin to neck and pleasingly crunchy cartilage. Even the ramen (¥620), with which many diners round off their meal, is served in a chicken broth. For drinks, forego the Asahi (¥450) and try a Minoh craft beer (¥900), yuzu highball (¥420) or fruit sake (¥700). Dessert is on the house, so save room for a little bowl of free – and chicken-free – ice cream.
Fittingly for a living-room-sized restaurant, the mood at Yakiniku Suzaku is relaxed and homely. The chef and waitress double act serve as your surrogate parents for the night, while the cramped and cluttered cooking space brings to mind a real Osakan kitchen. The organized mess of pots and pans suggests the focus is firmly on the food, and so it proves. We grill our moreish cuts of beef (tongue ¥800, karubi ribs ¥800, sirloin ¥1,000) on a neat little table-top barbecue. The reimen (Korean-style cold noodles, ¥500) are a tasty, prettily presented bargain, and a perfect accompaniment to the richness of the beef. Though hard to find, this secluded spot, and its friendly neighbors, are worth seeking out. From the southern entrance of Doguyasuji, walk north until you reach a shop called Goodies on your right. Opposite is a tiny corridor, down which Suzaku is the second door on the left.
Phone: 06-6648-8629
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: Inside Out, Minions,
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2
Umeda Burg7 Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women) 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300
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: Inside Out, The
Purge, Minions, Terminator: Genisys, Walking on Sunshine, Shaun the Sheep Movie, The Avengers: Age of Ultron, Child 44 • From Aug 1: The Purge: Anarchy • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2, Wild
Now showing: Inside Out, Minions,
Cine Libre Umeda
Now Showing: Wild Tales (SPA),
Price of Fame (FR), Turist (SWE, ENG, FR, NOR), Rhino Season (PERS, TURK), Zombeavers, Moomins and the Comet Chase (FIN/ENG), Winter Sleep, Locke, Still Alice • From Aug 1: Love & Mercy, The Rover • From Aug 8: The Salt of the Earth (FR), Tusk • From Aug 15: The New Girlfriend (FR), Tracks, God Help The Girl • From Aug 22: Nightcrawler, The Human Centipede 3
Theatre Umeda Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/ theatre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st of the month: ¥1,000
Now showing: Matthew Bourne’s
Swan Lake, Jauja, Stuck in Love, The Look of Silence, Mr. Turner • From Aug 1: Gemma Bovery (FR) • From Aug 15: Run Boy Run (GER) • From Aug 29: Phoenix (GER)
Terminator Genisys, Shaun the Sheep Movie, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 22: Nightcrawler • From Aug 28: Ted 2
Kyoto Cinema Tel: 07-5353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men), 1st of the month: ¥1,100
Toho Cinemas Nijo
Terminator Genisys
Toho Cinemas Namba
Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/ cinelibre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,000
Now showing: Inside Out, Minions,
and the Search for Happiness • From Aug 8: Rhino Season, Annie • From Aug 115: The New Girlfriend (FR) • From Aug 29: Phoenix (GER)
Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300
Nightcrawler
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: Mr. Turner, Hector
Now showing: Inside Out, 7500,
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, The Salvation, Mad Max: Fury Road, Kidnapping Mr. Heineken • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 28: Ted 2
Kyoto
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Walking on Sunshine, Mad Max: Fury Road, Child 44 • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2, Wild
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: Inside Out, Wild
Tales (SPA), Minions, Terminator Genisys, Shaun the Sheep Movie, Still Alice, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 1: The Rover • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 15: Big Game • From Aug 28: Ted 2
Cinem@rt
Tel: 07-5813-2410 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300
Now showing: Inside Out, Minions,
Terminator Genisys, Walking on Sunshine, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2, Wild
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: Inside Out, Minions,
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2
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: The Congress,
Berthe Morisot (FR), The Price of Fame (FR), Locke, Wild Tales, Mr. Turner, Hector and the Search for Happiness, Advanced Style, Selma • From Aug 1: Winter Sleep (TUR/ EN), Turist (SWE/EN/FR/NOR) • From Aug 15: The New Girlfriend (FR), The Salt Of The Earth (FR/ POR/EN), Love & Mercy, Une Partie de Campagne (FR) • From Aug 22: Nightcrawler Also showing: Gemma Bovery, Run Boy Run
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: Inside Out, Minions,
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Child 44, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2
Kobe Kokusai Shochiku
Tel: 0662820815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men), Weds (women), 1st and 25th of the month: ¥1,000
Tel: 07-8230-3580 • smt-cinema. com • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300
The Salvation • From Aug 1: Love & Mercy
Movie, Still Alice, Mad Max: Fury Road • From Aug 15: Big Game, Black Sea
Now Showing: The Look of Silence,
OS Cinema Kobe Harborland
Mad Max: Fury Road
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: Minions, Inside Out,
Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Mad Max: Fury Road, Child 44 • From Aug 5: Jurassic World • From Aug 7: Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation • From Aug 28: Ted 2, Wild
Now showing: Shaun the Sheep
Note: for show times and ticket information, please contact the cinemas directly
23
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai
Events Until Sep 27
Aug 7
Provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau
Stories from Tropical Islands (Summer Flower Show) 南の島の夏物語 Kisekinohoshi Botanical Museum, Hyogo Until Sep 27
This flower show is a unique annual event the whole family can enjoy, showcasing wonderfully vivid flowers and fruit. Take in the heady fragrance from the tropical plants as you wander the Gondwana garden in this museum. The Summer Flower Show features the Summer Carnival (Aug 1–15) and the Hawaiian Festival (Sep 19–23) both of which include Hawaiian and Tahitian dance shows, a night tour of the museum, and passion fruit sampling. There is also a Japanese garden guests can visit for some summer Zen moments.
2015 Lake Biwa Fireworks Display 2015 びわ湖花火大会 Otsu-Ko Port, Shiga Aug 7
Celebrate one of the best pyrotechnics shows in Japan attracting over 300,000 visitors annually. Ten thousand spectacular light flowers bloom in the night sky and reflect on the glassy surface of the lake, some flying in arcs while others fan out across the water. Arrive an hour or two early to get the best viewing spots; Ojiyama Sports Park (5-min walk from Hamaotsu Stn), Nagisa Park, and the lakefront (15-min walk from Ostu Stn). Time: 7:30pm–8:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Otsu Stn / Keihan Line Hamaotsu Stn • biwako-visitors.jp/hanabi
Time: 10am–6pm (9am–9pm Aug 1–16) • Admission: ¥600 adults, concessions • Access: JR Maiko Stn, bus to Awaji Yumebutai-mae • kisekinohoshi.jp
Aug 28–30
Heijokyo Tenpho Sai – Ancient Capital Heijokyo Festival 平城京天平祭 夏2015 Heijokyo Palace Site, Nara Aug 28–30
Nara hosts a three-day summer event celebrating its more than 1,300 years of history. Featuring spectacular illuminations, this evening festival adds color to every corner of the ancient palace site. See brightly shining objects depicting ancient Eastern gods. Ten thousand flickering candles create an air of quiet and elegant beauty at Daybook-den Hall. Don’t miss the stunning lighting installation called “Digital-kakejiku” where a beautiful image will be projected onto the Suzaku Gate. With a majestic parade of imperial court dignitaries, exciting live music shows, bustling food stalls and a market, there is something there for everyone. English fliers and announcements are provided at the venue. Time: 5:30pm–9pm • Admission: Free • Access: Kintetsu Line, YamatoSaidaiji Stn, free bus to the venue • tenpyosai.jp/index.html
25
26
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Aug 22
Event Listings August Special Exhibition “Toilet!? – Human Waste & Earth’s Future” トイレ?行っトイレ!ぼくらのうんち と地球のみらい Knowledge Capital in Grand Front Osaka Aug 15–30
Provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau
Manto Kuyo – Holy Lights Service 万燈供養 Injoji Temple, Shiga Aug 22
Thousands of holy lights illuminate stone images of Buddha; this is an annual religious event held to comfort the spirits of the dead at the temple Injoji. These stone statues are grave stones from the Warring States period (sengoku jidai). The locals collected and enshrined them in this ancient temple. The service starts with a bonfire ceremony followed by a candle ceremony performed by children in mountain priest costumes. Visitors can also enjoy food stalls, games for children, live music and other attractions around the temple. Time: 6pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Notogawa Stn, bus to Hyakusaiji, 10-min walk • biwako-visitors.jp/event/detail/263
August 10 & 11
Hozenji Yokocho Festival
Flush yourself down the giant commode-shaped slide and enter toilet world! This is a truly unique and educational exhibition focusing on apparatus that is the lavatory. Obliging characters tell you all about sewage disposal and environmentally friendly loos. Time: 10am–7pm • Admission: HS students and below ¥500 (¥650 on the door), Adults ¥900 (¥1,100 on the door), under threes free • Access: JR Osaka Stn • ktv.jp/ event/toilet
Dolphin Coast Project 2015 須磨ドルフィンコーストプロジェ クト2015 Southside of Suma Aqualife Park Kobe, Hyogo Aug 31
Come and meet the dolphins! There will be a quick lecture on dolphins held at the foreshore (¥500) and a hands-on, dolphin-training experience during this event (¥1,000). Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free to observe • Access: JR Sumakaihinkoen Stn, 5-min walk • sumasui.jp/dolphincoast-tour
Hozenji Temple, Osaka
Exhibition of Haniwa Terracotta Figure
August 10 & 11
大王墓にみる動物埴輪
法善寺横丁まつり
Experience the essence of both modern and traditional Osaka culture. Hozenji Yokocho Festival is an annual festivity to celebrate the vibrant history of the neighborhood. On the 10th at around 2pm, the ceremony starts with the cracking of a sake barrel and a festival music performance. A free bunraku puppet show will take place in front of Mizukake Fudo Temple. Famous restaurants will open their stalls and turn the festival into a food lovers’ paradise. There is a free jazz-music concert from 5pm on both days. Time: 2pm • Admission: Free • Access: Namba Stn, Exit 14, 3-min walk • houzenji.com/index.html • ittoko-minami.net/calendar. html
The Imashirozuka Museum, Osaka Until Sep 6
Haniwa terracotta figures of domestic animals and cattle are on display at this museum located next to the Imashitozuka Burial Mound Park. It is a restoration of an ancient burial mound where visitors can walk around. Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Settsu-Tonda Stn, bus to Imashirozuka Kofun • goo.gl/ za23NH
Tethered Balloon Rides 熱気球フライト2015 Lake Biwa Museum, Shiga Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon Until Aug 10
Here’s your chance for a hot-air balloon adventure! While being anchored by a rope, these tethered flights will rise to about 25 meters
off the ground. The balloons are popular so making a booking is advisable.
Time: 6am–9am • Admission: ¥2,000 (¥2,500 at door) adults, concessions • Access: JR Kusatsu Stn, bus to Biwako Hakubutsukanmae • goo.gl/kbO56V
Pottery Festival 五条坂陶器祭り Gojozaka, Kyoto Aug 7–10
A big three-day pottery sale; over 400 roadside shops on the atmospheric Gojozaka Street will be selling crockery galore at bargain prices.
Time: 9am–10:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: Keihan Line Kiyomizugojo Stn • toukimaturi.gr.jp
Inagawa Jazz Picnic 2015 ジャズピクニックイン 猪名川 〜サウンドコレクション〜 Inagawa Sports Park, Osaka Aug 8
This is an event for true jazz lovers, with great bands playing a wide range of genres. Come and enjoy pleasant river breeze, beautiful music and a beautiful sunset.
Time: 5pm–9pm • Admission: ¥3,000 adults (¥3,500 at door), concessions • Access: Hankyu Line, Ikeda Stn, 15-min walk • azaleanet. or.jp/event195.html
Saeki Giant Lantern Festival 佐伯灯籠祭 Hiedano Shrine, Kyoto Aug 14
This centuries-old festival performs traditional rituals and ceremonies. There will be a puppet theatre show featuring Kyoto dolls, a portable shrine, drum floats, and giant lanterns all jumbled together. Time: 6pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kameoka Stn, bus to Saeki • kameoka.info/seeing/ landmark/saekitourou.php
Taketoya in Shikinosato – Bamboo Lantern Event 竹燈夜 in 四季の郷 Shikinosato Park, Wakayama Aug 15
Shikinosato Park hosts a beautiful evening event featuring 20,000 bamboo lanterns. Look forward to live music and performing arts to accompany the evening.
Time: 5pm–9pm • Admission: Free • Access: Wakayama Line, Idakiso Stn, free bus to the venue • taketoya. kisyu-sando.com
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Hashiraimatsu – A Bonfire Ritual 柱松 Taiji Ko Port, Wakayama Aug 14 & 15
This exciting bonfire event is held to offer holy fire to ancestors’ spirits; young local men throw flaming torches to kindle a huge torch (15 meters high). There is a fireworks display and dance performance on the 14th.
Time: 5:30pm Aug 14; 8pm Aug 15 • Admission: Free • Access: JR Taiji Stn • town.taiji.wakayama.jp
Dekansho Festival 第63回丹波篠山デカンショ祭り Sasayama Castle Ruins, Hyogo Aug 15 & 16
Thousands of people dance to the national song of Dekansyo in what is one of the largest bon dance events. There will be a fireworks display, a large food market and more. Time: 12pm–10pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Sasayamaguchi Stn • dekansho.jp
Floating Lantern Ceremony 嵐山灯篭流し Togetsu-Kyo Bridge, Kyoto Aug 16
Thousands of paper lanterns float down the river in this Buddhist ceremony held to see off spirits of the dead who are believed to visit this world during the festival of Obon. Time: 7pm–9pm • Admission: Free • Access: Hankyu Railway Arashiyama Stn, 5-min walk • geocities.jp/butto_renmei/index. html
Tokimeki Beach Festa 2015 ときめきビーチフェスタ 2015 Tokimeki Beach in Sennan Satoumi Park, Osaka Aug 16
Community sports teams will compete in Beach Volleyball, Beach Soccer and Beach Flags for a cash prize of ¥200,000! Time: 9am–5pm • Admission: Free • Access: Nankai Line Tannowa Stn; 15-min walk • osaka-park.or.jp/ rinkai/sennan/main.html
seen from many places in the heart of the city. Time: 8pm–8:30pm • Admission: Free • kyokanko.or.jp/okuribi
Antique Kimono Exhibition 蔵に残るアンティーク着物展 Tondaya, Kyoto Aug 18-31
A large collection of antique kimonos will be on display in a traditional Japanese house. A guided tour of the house will be provided.
Time: 9am–5pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Access: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Imadegawa Omiya, 3-min walk • tondaya.co.jp
Oktoberfest 2015
関西シーンパーティー
Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Aug 19-30
7:00–10pm • Admission: ¥3,500 (all-u-can-drink and lucky
One of the largest beer festivals in the world, “German Oktoberfest” where everybody enjoys large glasses of beer and sausages, will take place at one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Kansai.
Time: 5pm–10pm on weekdays, 11am–10pm weekends • Admission: Free • Access: JR Osaka Stn / Subway Umeda Stn, 7-min walk • tv-osaka.co.jp/oktoberfest
Minatogawa Shrine Summer Festival 湊川神社 夏祭り Minatogawa Shrine, Hyogo Aug 22-26
Magnificent, giant, colourful lanterns parade around the shrine’s grounds. Dance performances, tea ceremonies and other attractions will be held during the festival. Time: 5pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kobe Stn, 3-min walk • minatogawajinja.or.jp
Aug 21 (Fri) @ Nambar 10 Sports & Beers • Time: draw ticket) Aug 29 (Sat) @ Lingua World Cafe • Time: 5–8pm • Admission: ¥1,500 (1 drink and lucky draw ticket)
Breaking with tradition, we have not one but two parties for you this month! First up on Friday August 21st is our Beer Garden Party at the Swissôtel 10F bar - Nambar 10 Sports & Beers. ¥3,500 gets you two hours of all-u-can-drink, including Budweiser (with special guest Bud Girls), some light snacks and the chance to win some great prizes in our lucky draw. Doors open at 7pm, with nomihoudai from 7:30-9:30pm. Then, the following weekend on August 29th, we are throwing a party at Lingua World Cafe in Tani-9-chome. This will be our first family-friendly event and your children are very welcome to join and enjoy the kids corner. ¥1,500 will get you one drink (including craft beer!) and entry into our lucky draw, complete with a few prizes for the little ones. Kids go free. From 5–8pm.
Jizoe Ceremony 地蔵会万灯供養 Gango-ji (Temple), Nara Aug 23 & 24
Jizoe is held to pray for healthy growth of children. An array of Buddhist statues will be lit up, there will be fun activities for children on the 23rd, and sutra chanting along with Japanese instrumental music on the 24th.
五山送り火 Various Parts of Kyoto City Aug 16
Food and Music
Giant bonfires will burn on the five mountains surrounding the city of Kyoto. These five bonfires; three in the shape of Japanese kanji, one in the shape of a a ship and the other representing a shrine gate can be
Kansai Scene Parties
オクトバーフェスト新梅田シティ 2015
Time: 5pm–8:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, 15-min walk • gangoji.or.jp
Okuribi Bonfire
Aug 21 & 29
夢まつり ~音と食の饗宴~ Gango-ji (Temple), Nara Aug 24
Famous restaurants from Nara will open stalls and sell their specialities at Gango-ji: Japanese, Italian,
Thai and other styles of cuisine. There will be various live music performances during the event.
Time: 11am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, 5-min walk • narakko.jp/event/ ids/004559.html
Bon Odori Dance 南御堂盆踊り Minami Mido Temple, Osaka Aug 27 & 28
Blend in with crowd of bon dancers and dance along with live music from various regions of Japan. There will be gifts for the first 500 visitors. Time: 6:15pm–9:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: Midosuji Subway Line, Hommachi Stn, Exit 13 • minamimido.jp/moyooshi
Basara Festival バサラ祭り Nara Park and Surroundings Aug 29 & 30
An annual two-day dance event in the ancient city Nara. The entire city will come to life with attentiongrabbing dance performances.. Time: 1pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR / Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn • basaramatsuri.com/top.html
Find more listings online: www.kansaiscene.com/ listings
27
28
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 BIX & MARKI FRENCH ORIGINAL MUSIC LIVE
「地層
STRATUM」2015 Art Exhibition
entry, a copy of the magazine, and a drink.
Aug 6 • Ushu-do, Osaka / Aug 7 • Asian Dining Cafe Mew'z, Kyoto
Aug 18–23 • Gallery Morning, Kyoto • Free
Shitennoji Temple Flea Market
Would you like to hear French original music? European and Japanese duo from Tokyo play soft acoustic creations on their summer tour of Japan. Osaka: 8:30pm • Free • Access: Kitahama (5 mins) Kyoto: 7pm & 8:30pm • Free • Access: Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae (2 mins) • www.makbx.com
WANDERLUST - 風来坊 - Venice - Osaka Aug 7–14 • IIC Osaka
Italian and Japanese ceramic artists converge in this group exhibition - to cross borders, build bridges, overcome distances and bind human relationships. Featuring Italian Artists: "Collettivo C13" Matteo Bagolin, Carola Castagna, Stefano Giglio, Elena Lombardi and Japanese Artists: Hidemi Terada, Masako Sato, Masatoshi Takamori, Saori Yabe, Yoshiharu Miyahara, Rie Miyatake, Tae Ikeda. Access: Festival Hall 17F, Nakanoshima
Yodogawa Fireworks Display
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival Aug 8
Famously rained off last year, but back again this year regardless, this is one of the best fireworks displays in Kansai. Expect crowds. Time: 7:50–8:40pm • Access: Umeda, Juso, Noda, Fukushima stations • www.yodohanabi.com
Guinness World Record Attempt: The Largest Bon Odori Dance! Aug 16 • Dotonbori, Osaka
Watch as 3,000 dancers attempt to break the world record for the most people dancing the bon odori in unison. Cameras at the ready. Time: 5–9pm • Free Website: www.dotonbori-bondance.jp/en
This summer, Gallery Morning is hosting the collective exhibition 'STRATUM' in Kyoto, Japan. This week-long show will feature work by three international artists (OKOK, TJ Perrin and EASTE) coming together in Kyoto for their first exhibition in Japan. The artists will be displaying various forms of mixed media, including light installation, paintings and sculpture. There will be a closing event on Saturday, August 22nd from 18:00 -21:00.
Kamihikouki Release Party: Vol 4 Aug 23 • ¥1,000 • Salt Valley, Osaka
Kamihikouki Magazine encourages you to take a detour from your usual weekend activities and wander into our next launch party for an evening of live performance, art, food, and booze as we celebrate the release of our fourth issue, Yorimichi. The event will take place on Sunday, August 23 at Salt Valley in Ashiharabashi (next to Ashiharabashi Station on the JR Loop Line and walking distance from Daikokucho Station). Tickets are ¥1000 at the door and include
Aug 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka
Used and handmade clothes, japanese ceramics, tableware, accessories and antiques for sale from 300 stalls at this popular temple market in Tennoji held on the 21st & 22nd of each month.
• Time: 8:30am–4pm • Admission: free • Access: 5min walk from Shitennojimae stn, Tanimachi Line • Tel: 06-6771-0066 • shitennoji.or.jp
Pinball Tournament Aug 29 • Venue: Silver Ball Planet, Bigstep Bldg
Everyone’s 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. Time: 4pm–5pm • Access: Shinsaibashi or Yotsubashi Subway Stns • facebook.com/ silverballplanet
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai
Museum “Eki” Kyoto
The Mysterious Ghosts of Ukiyo-e Prints
KS
Pick
Summertime heat got you longing for a bit of October chill? Look no further than this spooky showcase of ukiyo-e ghosts, birthed from the growth of the occult near the end of the Edo period. Night after night, people gathered to share and listen to ghost stories, many of which were so popular that they inspired not only novels and Kabuki performances, but reincarnations in the booming genre of ukiyo-e (woodblocks and paintings of “the floating world”). The small museum exhibition boasts 100 works that even little kids can enjoy, but you’ll appreciate the eerie, unusual subjects as seen through this traditional Japanese style even more. 歌川芳藤「五拾三次之内 猫の怪」 Utagawa Yoshifuji 《Monstrous Cat》
Until Sep 27 Abeno Harukas Art Museum
Tove Jansson: Living With Moomin Quiz time! There’s Garfield and Jim Davis, Snoopy and Charles Schultz, Moomin and ... ? Stumped? Then get on over to the Abeno Harukas Art Museum and get acquainted with the artist and creator of Moomin, Tove Jansson. Jansson was an established and well-studied Finnish artist and political cartoonist. After its initial publication in 1945, Moomin frenzy soon followed, with the cute, top-hat wearing hippo heralding a global brand all while Jansson’s other achievements fell to the sidelines. This comprehensive catalog of her works is divided into six major stages of her career, from her early “Aspiring Painter” years to her later “Various Other Works,” post Moomin Valley. Accompanying the display are five family-friendly events designed to immerse you into both Jansson’s real world and Moomin’s, including a Finnish cooking workshop, Moomin Day, Children’s Day, a Finnish music performance, and a special visit by Moomin and Chibi themselves. Extensive and biographical showcase of works by Moomin creator Tove Jannson, including paintings and other illustrations • Open: 10am–8pm Tue–Fri; 10am–6pm Mon and weekends •
Spooky and kid-friendly
Closed: Aug 3, 31, and Sep 7 • Admission: ¥1200 (ES students
display of ghosts in
Free on Aug 24) • Access: JR Tennoji Stn • aham.jp
ukiyo-e prints and paintings from the Edo period • Open: 10am– 8pm daily • Admission: ¥900 • Access: JR Kyoto Stn • kyoto.wjr-isetan. co.jp
葛飾北斎「百物語 さらやしき」 Katsushika Hokusai 《100 ghost stories Sara Yashiki》
Until Aug 30 Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art
Funakoshi Katsura: The Sphinx Within Myself Don’t miss this exhibition of old and new works by the internationally renowned, homegrown Japanese wood sculptor Funakoshi Katsura. He is recognized for his painted wooden sculptures that seem human in a fantastical, Pan’s Labyrinth sort of way, which may be disturbing to some viewers as the expressionless faces and elongated necks and (and sometimes displaced) limbs give off an alien air. The skill of the woodwork is unquestionable – Katsura carves the wood carefully along the grain, adding detail and giving dynamic texture to his creations. The exhibition covers three eras of the master wood sculptor’s work, which show his take on and evolving view of the human form as it morphs from waist-up only; plain yet striking figures in simple clothes to legged, contorted, sphinx-like beings in otherworldly colors and shapes. Thirty sculptures and a handful of their respective original sketches are on display. 30-piece exhibiton by master sculptor Funakoshi Katsura • Open: 10am–6pm (10am-8pm FriSat) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1300 • Access: Hanshin Iwaya Stn • artm.pref.hyogo.jp
トーベ・ヤンソン《絵本「ムーミン谷へのふしぎな旅」挿絵》1977年 タンペレ市立美術館ムーミン谷博物館蔵 © Moomin Characters ™
Until Aug 16
《The Shadow on Snow》2002 Sapporo Art Museum Courtesy of Nishimura Gallery © Funakoshi Katsura
30
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai
Osaka Childhood Days: The Art of Mitsumasa Anno Higashi Osaka Citizens Art Center Until Aug 30
Charming works by popular illustrator and 1984 Hans Christian Andersen Medal for children’s literature recipient Mitsumasa Anno. Highlighted illustrations depict the lives of youth in the Showa period and are selected from his picture books including Children From Back Then, Already Yesterday Things, and Tree Climbing Poem. Open: 9am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥500 • Access: Kintetsu Nara Line, Higashi Hanazono Stn • higashiosaka-art.org
Hyogo Digital x Fashion Kobe Fashion Museum Until Oct 6
Exploration of digital technology and its uses in modern fashion, especially through works by designers Anrealage (Kunihiko Morinaga) and Somarta (Tamae Hirokawa). Their digital and conceptual style is exemplified by Morinaga’s use of optical illusion, light play, and intricately laser-cut patterns in his garments, and Somarta’s detailed, web-like patterned pieces and angled cuts. Works by both artists will be on display.
Open: 10am–6pm • Closed: Wed • Admission: ¥500 • Access: JR Sumiyoshi Stn, Rokko Liner to Island Center Stn • fashionmuseum.or.jp
Sharaku and Toyokuni Itami City Museum of Art Until Aug 30
Exhibition of 130 classical depictions of kabuki actors, beautiful women, and sumo wrestlers in ukiyo-e printed and handpainted formats, dating from the Kansei era to the end of the Bunsei arts boom during the Edo period (up to 1830). A Ukiyo-e workshop for both adults and children will be held.
Open: 10am–6pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥800 • Access: Hankyu or JR Itami Stn • artmuseum-itami.jp
Kyoto Musical Films in Posters The National Museum of Modern Art Until Aug 16
Display of original musical film posters of famous 20th-century films including Singin’ in the Rain, Audrey Hepburn’s Funny Face, and Barbra Streisand’s Hello, Dolly!. Reflecting their respective film’s airy, cheerful tones, the posters are colorful and vibrant. In the same way that the film genre inspired Hollywood trends for decades, explore how the posters’ original designs have and continue to inspire American graphic design. Open: 9:30am–5pm; 9:30am–8pm Fridays • Closed: Mondays • Admission: ¥430 • Access: Tozai Subway Line, Higashiyama Stn • momak.go.jp
Shiga Celebrating Two Contemporary Geniuses: Jakuchu and Buson Miho Museum Until Aug 30
Exhibition of two remarkable Edo-period artists, Ito Jakuchu and Yosa Buson. Both artists are reputed for their painstaking attention to detail and beautiful depictions of traditional Japanese subjects. Scrolls, door panels, and more are on display, alongside selections by fellow artists of the time.
Until Oct 12 Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art
René Magritte Meet the mind behind the Son of Man, Golconda, The Treachery of Images, and other mind-bending paintings, René Magritte, a French surrealist painter of the early 20th century. His style challenged the viewer’s preconceived ideas of what the painting should be versus what it actually is by combining his brush skill with an acute sense of perspective, both in the real and artistic sense. Curious ‘huh’s and ‘what’s will likely follow ‘ooh’s and ‘aah’s at this 130-piece retrospective that seeks to explain Magritte’s thought and creative process while showcasing the chronological catalogue of his work in five periods. If the masterpieces alone aren’t intriguing enough for you, the museum has prepared lectures and courses that delve further into the nitty-gritty of Magritte’s work and the surrealist genre. First large-scale retrospective in Japan in 13 years of paintings by 20th century French surrealist Rene Magritte • Open: 9am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1600 • Access: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Bijutsukan-mae • city.kyoto. jp/bunshi/kmma
Open: 10am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,100 • Access: JR Kyoto Line, Ishiyama Stn • miho.or.jp
Shimura Fukumi: Nature and Inheritance to Next Generation The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga Until Aug 8
Sixty complete pieces of traditional Japanese wear (yukata) by Shimura Fukumi, all of which were woven and dyed by hand using naturally colored dyes to create complex, layered color patterns. Try your hand at dyeing and weaving at the accompanying workshops throughout the month.
Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1000 • Access: JR Kyoto Line, Seta Stn • shiga-kinbi.jp
Keith Haring: Prints & Other Works Sagawa Art Museum Until Sep 23
Collection of prints, drawings, photographs, and more from the Nakamura Haring Collection by Keith Haring, a prolific American social activist and artist, LGBT representative, and AIDS awareness champion of the 1980s and early 90s. His characteristic brightly colored, block-framed, animated illustrations of dogs and people remain symbolic icons of
the era and of social issues still relevant today.
Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1000 • Access: JR Biwako Line, Moriyama Stn • sagawa-artmuseum.or.jp
Wakayama Summer Art Museum 5: Murmurs, Stories, and Tales The Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama Until Aug 30
Great for the kids but no bore for curious adults – all sorts of intentionally unusual objects, paintings, drawings, and photographs have been brought together to encourage children to ‘listen’ to the ‘murmurs’ coming from the pieces, think of their ‘stories,’ and make up their own new ‘tales.’
Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥510 • Access: JR Wakayama Stn, bus to Kenchomae • momaw.jp
Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings
Golconda 1953 oil on canvas 80×100.3cm The Menil Collection, Houston Photo © Rick Gardner, Houston © Charly Herscovici / ADAGP, Paris, 2015
Art Listings
31
32
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai KS
Live Music
Pick
Sep 7
DRAGONFORCE
Originally coming together in 1999 as DragonHeart, this London-based band released their debut album Valley of the Damned in 2003 (the metal six-piece by then using the name DragonForce). The phenomenally high-speed guitar playing by Herman Li and Sam Totman is the core of the DragonForce sound, with melodic vocals of Marc Hudson. In an interview with Guitar World magazine, Li described DragonForce as “Journey meets Slayer or Bon Jovi on Acid.” Last year saw the release of DragonForce’s sixth studio album Maximum Overload. The band has recently had close links with the Japanese metal idol band Babymetal. When Dragonforce appeared at this year’s Download Festival, Babymetal joined them as special guests and DragonForce also acted as Babymetal’s backing band at the 2015 Metal Hammer Golden Gods. Power-metal band based in London, England • Big Cat, Osaka • Sept 7 • Metal • 7:30pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888
Live Music Listings August / September Rock & Pop SUMMER SONIC ft. Marilyn Manson, Babymetal, Manic Street Preachers, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The Prodigy, Chemical Brothers, Pharrell Williams, and more. Osaka Rock & Pop festival Maishima Summer Sonic Osaka Site Aug 15–16 • Mixed genre • 11am • ¥13,000/¥25,000 • summersonic. com
The Muggles Mellow ballads, classic rock & dynamic rock and roll from Osakabased jamming band Woodstock Café, Ashiya, Osaka
Every Fri & Sat • Rock & Group Sounds • Free entrance, ¥2,000 for 2 drinks + snack • Tel: 07-9734-1044
Daisuke Asakura Japanese pop singer-songwriter & synth pianist Muse, Osaka
Aug 15–16 • Electronic • Aug 15 6pm; Aug 16 5pm • ¥4,800 • Tel: 06-6245-5389
Misia Japanese female vocalist Omura Nagasaki Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka
Sukimanozarashi Japanese rock four-piece formed 2002 Taku Taku, Kyoto
Aug 19 • Rock • 7pm • ¥2,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321
Aug 16 • Pop female vocal • 6:30pm • ¥8,500 • Tel: 05-70200888
Kana Nishino
Kana Nishino
Gilbert O’Sullivan
Female Japanese-pop vocalist Osaka Jo Hall
Irish singer-songwriter best known for his hits Alone Again and Clair. Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka
Aug 18 • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥9,800/¥11,300 • Tel: 06-6342-7722
Being Guitar Summit ft. Takashi Masuzaki, Takashi Gomi, Shibasaki and Hiroshi Akihide Selection of Japanese guitar players Big Cat, Osaka
Aug 18 • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6258-5008
Aug 22–23 • Pop • 6pm • ¥6,300/¥6,800 • Tel: 06-7732-8888 Aldious
Aldious All-female Japanese metal band from Osaka Club Quattro, Osaka
Aug 22 • Metal • 6:30pm • ¥3,900/¥4,400 • Tel: 06-6311-8111
Ash Alternative rock band from Northern Ireland formed 1992 Shangri-La, Osaka
Aug 22 • Rock • 3pm • ¥4,800 • Tel: 06-6343-8601
Pink Floyd Trips Japanese Pink Floyd tribute band Chicken George, Kobe
Aug 26 • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 07-8332-0146
Kamijo Japanese visual-kei-rock singersongwriter Muse, Osaka
Aug 30 • Rock • 5:30pm • ¥5,400/¥5,900 • Tel: 06-6245-5389
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Sep 1
Aug 20
MAROON5
Formed in Los Angeles, California in 2001, MAROON5 released their debut album Songs About Jane in 2002. The album achieved success thanks in part to a lot of airplay of the single Harder To Breathe and by 2005, after extensive touring, they were nominated for a Grammy as Best New Artist. It was five years between that debut and the follow-up It Won’t Be Soon Before Long in 2007. Moves Like Jagger was another three years later before the band became a little more prolific with the 2012 Overexposed and V in 2014. Citing an abundance of diverse influences, guitarist James Valentine states on their musical style, “a MAROON5 song is minor, and it has some funk, Nile Rodgers-style guitar, and lyrics are probably about getting your heart broken.”
Aug 25–26
Jesse van Ruller Trio
Hailed as one of the finest jazz guitarists in the world, Dutch musician Jesse van Ruller was born in Amsterdam in 1972. As a 23 year old, he won the Thelonious Monk Competition in Washington (the first European to win the competition) and was named by the judges, including Pat Metheny and Jim Hall, as one of the most promising talents of his time. His debut album European Quintet came out in 1996 and he has since played with many greats such as Roy Hargrove, Toots Thielemans, and Mike Stern. In his current line-up, Jesse van Ruller is backed up by bassist Clemens van der Feen and drummer Joost van Schaik. Dutch jazz guitarist • Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Aug 20 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6342-5821
Akiko Yano Trio
Japanese pop and jazz pianist and vocalist Akiko Yano has performed or recorded with a long list of international musicians since the 1970s, as well as having a successful solo career. Her music can also be heard on some Studio Ghibli animations and she actually voiced the role of Ponyo’s sister in the animation Ponyo. The Akiko Yano Trio shows at Billboard Live Osaka are with bassist Will Lee and drummer Chris Parker. The trio has been playing together since 2009. During her long career, Akiko Yano has received worldwide acclaim including from the New York Times, which published that she is “a world class songwriter with a clear, gentle, wide-ranging voice…endearing performer who might be a Japanese Carole King, Joni Mitchell or Meredith Monk.”
US Rock band • Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Sep
Japanese jazz-pop pianist and singer •
1 • Rock pop • 7pm • ¥12,500/¥25,000 •
Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Aug 25–26 •
Tel: 05-7020-0888
Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,400/¥8,900 • Tel: 06-6342-7722
MAROON5
Andrew McMahon
U.S. rock band Osaka Jo Hall
U.S. musician from California Live House Soma, Osaka
Sep 1 • Rock pop • 7pm • ¥12,500/¥25,000 • Tel: 05-70200888
Sep 2 ・Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥6,800 • Tel: 06-6212-2253
Riot US Metal band formed 1975 also known as Riot V Live House Soma, Osaka
Sep 4–6 • Pop • 6:30pm Sep 4; 5pm Sep 5 & 6 • ¥8,700 • Tel: 057020-0888
Sept 5–6 • Rock-pop • 6pm Sep 5; 5pm Sep 6 • ¥6,480 • Tel: 057020-0888
T-Square
Plastic Tree
70’s reformed Japanese fusion band Namba Hatch, Osaka
Japanese visual-kei-rock band Club Quattro, Osaka
Sep 5 • Fusion • 4:30pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-7732-8888
Sep 5–6 • Rock • 6pm Sep 5; 5pm Sep 6 • ¥5,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888
Sep 3 • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,800/¥8,300 • Tel: 06-6212-2253
Loudness Hibria
Hibria Brazilian power-metal five-piece Club Quattro, Osaka
Sep 1 • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6311-8111
Japanese rock band formed 1981 Namba Hatch, Osaka Sep 3 • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500/¥15,000 • Tel: 06-77328888
V6 Japanese male vocal pop group Osaka Jo Hall
Superfly
Superfly Female Japanese-rock-pop vocalist Osaka Festival Hall
FACT
FACT Japanese five-piece rock band formed 1999 Namba Hatch, Osaka
33
34
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Aug 15, 16
Interview // The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion The alternative rock trio of Jon Spencer, Judah Bauer and Russell Simins are better known as the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion. Earlier this year, the band recorded and released the new studio album Freedom Tower. KS spoke with Jon Spencer about the new album and their upcoming visit to Japan to appear at this year’s Summer Sonic Festival. How would you sum up the story behind the new album Freedom Tower? Freedom Tower is a record about our hometown of New York City, the place that the Blues Explosion has always called home. We’re a New York City band. We take a lot of influence from the place we live. We take inspiration from the tall buildings, subways, crowds of people, noise, chaos, and we find beauty within all of that. We also take great inspiration from all of the music and the bands that have come before us and the bands that are around currently these days. This record is about who we are and what we stand for. And that’s New York City. It’s nearly 25 years that the trio has been together. How does it feel to have had the same lineup since 1991? It feels good. I feel very lucky to still have my two friends Judah Bauer and Russell Simins to play together with in this band. I don’t think the Blues Explosion could exist with anybody else. I think that the communication, the musical glue and the bond that exists in the 3 people is the key to this band. I don’t think the band can work with any substitution, subtraction or addition. You’re playing in the Osaka Summer Sonic, which is not your first visit to these shores. What do you enjoy playing and doing in Japan? Lots of stuff. It could just be something as simple as getting a can of coffee from a vending machine. Japanese culture is a very great interest to us. It’s strangely familiar though; we’re coming from New York City and a place like Tokyo or Osaka, yes it seems very strange, but it’s not so different from New York City. So it’s nice to go and be in some completely foreign and alien place, but still feel some familiarity. Summer Sonic ft. Marilyn Manson, Babymetal, Manic Street Preachers, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The Prodigy, Chemical Brothers, Pharrell Williams, and more.
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Listings (Cont.) Sep 6 • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 • Tel: 06-7732-8888
Alfred Beach Sandal Japanese trio of Kitasato Akihisa, Iwai Tsugiware & Wataru Mitsunaga Taku Taku, Kyoto
Sep 6 • Pop-rock • 6pm • ¥2,500 • Tel: 07-5351-1321
Dragon Force Power-metal band based in London, England Big Cat, Osaka Sep 7 • Metal • 7:30pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888
Pero Pero Electronic experimental rock from Germany Varit, Kobe
Sep 8 • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥2,000/¥2,500 • Tel: 07-8392-6655
Inoran Ex-founding member of Japanese visual-kei-rock band Luna Sea Club Quattro, Osaka
Sep 9 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,800/¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6344-3326
Sonic Osaka Site • Aug 15–16 • Mixed genre • 11am • 1 day: ¥13,000 / 2 days: ¥23,500 • summersonic.com
JESSE VAN RULLER TRIO Dutch jazz guitarist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka
Aug 20 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9.15pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6342-5821
Naoh Japanese jazz-funk saxophonist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka
Aug 21 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • Tel: 06-6342-5821
Akiko Yano Trio Japanese jazz-pop pianist and singer Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka Aug 25–26 ・ Jazz ・ 6:30pm/9:30pm ・ ¥7,400/¥8,900 ・ Tel: 06-6342-7722
Herbie Hancock & Wayne Shorter U.S. Jazz pianist Hancock and U.S. Jazz saxophonist Shorter Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka Sep 8 ・Jazz • 7pm • ¥43,500/¥45,000 • Tel: 06-63427722
Nicola Conte Italian acid-jazz producer and guitarist Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka
Sep 9 • Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥6,000/¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722 Mowmow Lulu Gyaban
Mowmow Lulu Gyaban Japanese bass, keyboards and drum trio Taku Taku, Kyoto
Sep 13 • Pop • 6pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321
Golden Bear Osaka Rock and Pop festival • various artists • Maishima Summer
Jazz & Blues
Japanese tarento band Osaka Jo Hall
Sep 13 • Rock pop • 4pm • ¥7,020 • Tel: 06-6341-3525
Kaori Sawada Japanese singer and pianist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka
Sep 9 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6342-5821
Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings
36
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai
Club
Aug 28
Circus At the end of the month, Circus welcomes the electronic pioneers, Simian Mobile Disco. SMD was originally formed by James Ford and Jas Shaw as a DJ duo on the side of their four-piece experimental electronic rock band Simian. SMD entered the spotlight when a French electro duo Justice remix of Simian’s 2002 track We Are Your Friends became a massive club anthem and it won at the 2006 European Video Music Awards. In 2006, the prestigious French electro label KitSune released their EP Hustler which got support from big international DJs. They have contributed to the fusion of rock and dance music and they have performed at countless festivals including two of Japan’s biggest rock festivals, Fuji Rock Festival and Summer Sonic. Recently, James Ford has served as a producer for Klaxons, Arctic Monkeys, and Mystery Jets, while Jas Shaw, the other half of duo, has been playing as a Simian Mobile Disco DJ. This will be a great show for techno/electro fans. Simian Mobile Disco Japan Tour (Electro/Techno) • DJs: Simian Mobile Disco DJ Set + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com
Club Listings August
¥3,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 066243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
Metro
1 (Sat)
Socore Factory
Tomoyuki Tateno, Kazuma, Podd, Tok • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Kyoto • Tel: 07-57522787 • metro.ne.jp
Circus Rough Haus feat. Tomoki Tamura Japan Tour (House/Techno) • DJs:
Tomoki Tamura, Ageishi, Hiro Ezaki, Mitsuyasu, Yuuna, Ebo • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Metro Homesick 26 Towa Tei – New Album “Cute” Release Party in Kyoto – (House/Crossover) • DJs:
Towa Tei, Halby, Yakenohara, Okadada, Afr • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Kyoto • Tel: 07-5752-2787 • metro. ne.jp
Onzieme Hush! feat. Philip Bader (Techno/ House) • DJs: Philip Bader,
Yashima, Shu, Goldtights, MaSataka • Open: 9pm • Admission:
Tresur (Techno/House) • DJs: Ono, Kentaro Iwaki, Keita, Magara, Kohei • Open: 11:59pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Horie • Tel: 06-65679852 • socorefactory.com
Troop Cafe Diatonik 7th Anniversary (Techno/ House) • DJs: Ogawa, 2Nyan,
Tatsuo.y, Mariko, Fukumura • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (Mail Reservation: ¥1,500/1D) • Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp
6 (Thu) Circus Positive Affair (Disco/House) •
DJs: Norio, Guchi, Keiburger • Open: 8pm • Admission: ¥500 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Nebula (House/Downtempo) • DJs:
Onzieme CQM (Techno/House) • DJs:
Ogawa, Conquest, Senda, Hayato, 224 aka 822, Tribe • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
• Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,800/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D) • Kyoto • Tel: 07-5752-2787 • metro. ne.jp
Onzieme Cyber Japan presents Bikini Night meets Eleven Lights (House/ Electro) • DJs: Mitomi Tokoto
& Cyber Japan Dancers, Kento, Alphashot, Akkan + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
7 (Fri)
8 (Sat)
Circus
Circus
Calm New Album “From My Window” Release Party (House) •
DJs: Calm + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com
Metro London Calling x Club Snoozer (Rock/Dance) • DJs: Soichiro
Tanaka, Hisashi the Kid + more
Shing02 + Spin Master A-1 Summer Tour (Hip Hop) • Live: Shing02 +
Spin Master A-1 • DJs: CM Smooth, Mayumi Killer • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Grand Cafe Ligand – 3peat – (House/Techno/ Trance) • DJs: Sugiurumn,
Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Shinkawa, Nao Nomura, Osakaman aka Yagyu + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,500/1D, Ladies: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • grandcafeosaka. com
Onzieme Nightbass (Drum’n’Bass) • DJs:
Makoto, Toyo, Ypy, Hmen, Alex, AC Aoi • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 066243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
Rooftop Bar OO Neverland (EDM/House) • Acts: Sapphire Hart, SumeGami, Martin, Roo, An-zi, Su + more • Open: 8pm - 1am • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥6,000/3D, Ladies: ¥4,000/2D • Shinsaibashi • oo-u.jp
Troop Cafe Seditional Jazz presents Kobe Latin Night (Nu Jazz/Latin) •
Acts: Koji Matsuda, Ryo, Tatsuro, Masahiro “Hamo” Matsuo, Tetsuro • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp
World Kyoto DDD (House/EDM) • Acts: Daishi
Dance, Future Boyz • Open: 8pm1am • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥3,000/1D, Ladies: ¥2,000/1D • Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • worldkyoto.com
9 (Sun) Circus Circus Sunday Session feat. DJ Yogurt (House) • DJs: Yogurt,
Shotaro Yagi, Dejirumasara • Open: 6pm • Admission: ¥1,500 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Rooftop Bar OO Natatorio Festa (House) • DJs: Idiot
Yuuka, Takekiyo Ishimoto, Ryosuke Murai, YusukeUdon, Assan + more • Open: 2pm–12am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • oo-u.jp
12 (Wed) Onzieme Escape – Summer Special – (Hip Hop) • DJs: Martin, Sound Naka-g,
Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
13 (Thu) Onzieme Room (House/Jazz/Hip Hop) • DJs: Sarasa, Shinya, Onochan, Crew, Jun, Young + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
14 (Fri) Circus DJ Tasaka “Upright” Release Party (Techno) • DJs: Tasaka, Monashee,
Okadada, Yuichirou Miyamoto • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Metro Do it Jazz! presents – Shuya Okino “Runaway” & DJ Kawasaki “Timeless” W Release Party – (House/Nu Jazz) • DJs: Shuya
Okino, Kawasaki, Masaki Tamura, Kazuhiro Inoue + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D) • Kyoto • Tel: 07-5752-2787 • metro.ne.jp
Onzieme Bubble (House/Techno) • DJs:
Galette, Ohooji, Shinichi Sumino, Shinsukefukuzumi, Yop, Ikepara • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
19 (Wed) Circus Harmonic History (Drum’n’Bass)
• DJs: T-Ak, Toyo, Mountain • Open: 8pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Onzieme Escape (Hip Hop) • DJs: Martin, Sound Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
20 (Thu) Circus About (Techno/House) • DJs:
15 (Sat)
Lossname + more • Open: 8pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com
Circus
22 (Sat)
Classics (House) • Live: And Vice
Versa • DJs: Kaoru Inoue, Monk a, Tomoyuki Tateno, Aspara • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Electric Cottage Treks #18 – The Woodland of Terror Horror (Techno/House) •
Live: Hiramatsu Toshiyuki • DJs: Mamezuka, Kazumi, Chapaty, Yoshiko K, Taka, MaSato.M, DSK, Jima, Mizooki + more • Open: TBA • Admission: ¥3,000 • Kyoto • treksjp.weebly.com
Onzieme Block.fm presents Block. Party (House/EDM) • DJs: Taku
Takahashi, Verbal, Jaxx Da Fishworks, High Velocity + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,400) • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
16 (Sun)
Banpakukinen Park Foam Festival Osaka 2015 (House/ EDM) • DJs: Shinichi Osawa, Daishi
Dance, Kazuma Takahashi, Kiss Bee + more • Open: 12pm–8pm • Admission: ¥4,400 (ADV: ¥3,900) • Suita • awafes.jp
Circus Noise Fanatics presents Out of Resistance Release Tour (Beat Music) • Acts: Trekkie Trax Crew,
Carpenter, Seiko, Clock Hazard + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com
Socore Factory Next Level (Techno/House) • DJs:
Mori, Spot, Fumi, Yoshiki • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Horie • Tel: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com
23 (Sun)
Circus Submerse “Stay Home” Release Tour (Beat Music) • Acts: Submerse,
Eadonmm, Fujimoto, Tell • Open: 10pm • Admission: TBA • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Banpaku-kinen Park Foam Festival Osaka 2015 (House/ EDM) • DJs: Taku Takahashi,
Munehiro, Spicychocolate, Takeru John Otoguro, HiSatomi + more • Open: 12pm–8pm • Admission:
¥4,400 (ADV: ¥3,900) • Suita • awafes.jp
Circus J.Rocc Japan Tour (Hip Hop) • DJs: J.Rocc + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com
26 (Wed) Onzieme Escape (Hip Hop) • DJs: Martin, Sound Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
27 (Thu) Onzieme Antenna (House/Techno/Electro) •
DJs: Cazbow, Sak, Shinjyu + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
28 (Fri) Onzieme KitSune Club Night (House) • Acts: Todd Edwards, Kill The Hero, Reload Reload, Sou + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: TBA • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
Troop Cafe Bush (Techno/House) • DJs: Vera
+ more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Mail Reservation: ¥2,000/1D) • Kobe • Tel: 07-83213130 • troopcafe.jp
29 (Sat) Circus Club Snoozer (Rock/Dance) • DJs: Soichiro Tanaka, Hisashi the Kid • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com
Onzieme Sinden “91104” Release Party (House/Techno/Electro) • DJs:
Sinden, Jommy, Jaxx Da Fishworks, High Velocity, Monna Lisa + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,400 • Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com
37
Classifieds Have a job to advertise, an apartment to rent or stuff to sell?
Place a classified ad.
Kansai Scene classified ads are free for community ads or just ¥3,000 a month for commercial listings.
Place your ad online at:
kansaiscene.com/classifieds
Ads posted online before 20th of each month will be published in the following month’s issue.
40
Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds For Sale (commercial) WE BUY YOUR ANTIQUE COLLECTION!. We are Japanese &
Chinese ANTIQUE seller. Please check our home page first! http:// www.art-en.jp/english/ If you feel like selling your antique collection, please e-mail us: kaitori@art-en. jp We appraise your item and make a good deal! Contact: EN CORPORATION <mandara555@ hotmail.co.jp> Website: www.art-en. jp/english/ [2773-5763-2015-08-21]
Accommodation For Rent KOBE, KITANO, MIKAGE, OKURAYAMA. Three available: all
semifurnished, no key money, no agency fee, 2 months refundable. MIKAGE: ¥98,000/month, 61sqm, very sunny, views, near stream. KITANO: ¥89,000/month 37sqm, very convenient. OKURAYAMA: ¥98,000/month 75sqm house. convenient ffeilden@yahoo.co.jp 090-9286-1216 Contact: ffeilden <info@ffeilden.com> Website: www. ffeilden.com/ [2889-436-2015-09-18]
APARTMENTS IN KOBE WITH NO KEY MONEY. 1 room apartments
from 40,000 yen per month. 2 and 3 bedroom apartments also available from throughout Kobe. 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 [2748-335-2016-06-25]
Jobs Education ASSISTANT TEACHER IN THE PRESCHOOL (3 YEAR OLDS).
• Hoikushi or other relevant qualification • Ability to work in a collaborative environment • Excellent English and Japanese communication skills, both written and verbal • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills • At least two years of relevant experience employment@oyis.org Contact: Osaka YMCA International School <dwayne-primeau@oyis.org> Website: oyis.org [2855-1445-201508-03]
KOBE AND SAKAI CORPORATE CLASSES. CES seeks English
NO GUARANTOR/ENTRANCE FEES! As new, 4th floor apt in a nice area. Only a few minutes on foot to Stations, rest, shops etc... 4 stops from Namba on Sennischimae (pink) line. JPY 55,000/m + 1m Dep (refundable). Call Trish 090 1599 9767 for inspection. Contact: Trish <trisha-d@gol.com> [2908-5857-
corporate instructors for 2-3 hours of classes a day on Weekday evenings (After 5:30PM) and Weekends (Day time) in the Kobe and Sakai areas for 1-4 month courses for immediate starts. 3,5004,000 yen per hour. For more info, please forward C/V with availability to mark@cesjapan.co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@cesjapan.co.jp>
2015-08-20]
[2193-77-2015-07-31]
1DK, 2DK APARTMENTS BENTENCHO, FROM 55000YEN/ MONTH. 6min walk from
NATIVE ALT TEACEHERS FOR SETTU, OSAKA. Looking for
PRIVATE APARTMENT-IMAZATO.
Bentencho subway and JR Loopline stations. 1DK unfurnish 55000yen/month, 1DK full furnish 70000yen/month, 2DK semi furnish 80000yen/month. Several apartments available. No key money, No guarantors needed, No Agency fees, 3month min. stay required. All utilities close by, Alex 090370303014 Contact: alexb <alex@abhousingosaka.com> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com
[2841-90-2015-07-29]
1K SEKIME 45000, 1DK KOMATSU 44000, 1R OWADA 40000. East
side of Osaka City apartments available. Sekime (Ashiya-Ku) 1K 45000yen/month, Komatsu (Higashi Yodogawa-Ku) 1DK 44000yen/ month, Owada (Kadoma-Shi) 1R 40000yen/month. No key money, No guarantors needed, No agency fees, 6month min. stay required. Check www.abhousingosaka.com for details. Alex 09037030314 Contact: alexb <alex@ abhousingosaka.com> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com [2842-90-
2015-07-29]
Native-level English speaking ALTs for Settsu City, Osaka .Candidates must be currently located in Kansai Pay: 1800 YEN + transportation Hours: 08:30 – 16:15 Monday to Friday Start: Aug 25 to Dec 24, 2015 ( 20 days average monthly) Contact: Jimmy, cem@brain-power. co.jp Contact: brain power <cem@ brain-power.co.jp> Website: www. brain-power.co.jp/ [2884-1874-201508-14]
TEACHERS WANTED. School in Ashiya/Okamoto is looking for FT/PT English, French & Korean teachers ASAP. University diploma preferable. Must be native speaker with valid visa. Payment: \2700\3000 per hour + transportation. Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: ashiyaplus@ hotmail.co.jp Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp> Website: www.comlanguageschool. com [2861-252-2015-08-07] ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED FOR ADULTS & KIDS. Casual/Friendly
English School has more than 20 hours/week adult/kids group &
private lessons & Coffee Lessons. No experience required, existing lesson curriculum taught. RES locations at both Suita and Ibarakishi. Also looking for Japanese English teacher/staff. Please email CV to royalenglsih725@gmail.com Contact: Royal English School <royalenglish725@gmail.com> [2902-1446-2015-08-21]
NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHERS EVENING CLASS. We are looking
for native english speakers to teach group english lessons for an hour or 90mins around honmachi/ midousuji areas. 90mins ¥5,000 Teaching materials will be provided. Teaching times are usually after 5pm. Friendly & professional necessary. Proper Visa. Please mail us for more informatiomn Contact: AB-English <houseofbagnall@ softbank.ne.jp> [2915-1679-201508-22]
OFFERING NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER IN YOKKAICHI MIE.
Full-time:40H:week(less than 30H teaching)/1pm-9pm.MF,Occasional Sat/Salary250,000yen/ Bonus100,000yen/Furnished apartment;62,000yen/Teach for Kids-Adults/Deadline;August 25th/Begin;September 1st/Apply with CV,Diploma,Passport,etc.../ Skype Interview /Place:MieKen, Yokkaichi/mail: bigapple. yokkaichi@gmail.com Contact: bigapple <bigapple.yokkaichi@ gmail.com> Website: www.bigappleschool.com/ [2919-1008-2015-08-22] ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED!!.
International School ages 1-6 * Position: Full time English teacher * Work hours : Monday -Friday 9am-6pm * Payment: 220,000~250,000yen/month * Location: Nagai in Osaka Let's have fun with kids. we have fun activities aside from everyday lessons. send your CV to e-mail : ayechild@ snow.ocn.ne.jp Contact: ayeaye international school <ayechild@ snow.ocn.ne.jp> Website: www. ayeayeosaka.com [2857-5817-201508-04]
PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED IN TEZUKAYA. 1 min
from station. PT teacher for kids and adult. Afternoon - Evening. Payment 2000 - 3000yen per hour. Please send your resume and recent photo via email : tobes@wine.plala. or.jp website: www.milnhouse. com Contact: MilnHouse <tobes@ wine.plala.or.jp> Website: www. milnhouse.com/ [2875-1824-201508-11]
P/T NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER.
P/T Native English teacher for kids in Settsumotoyama, Kobe needed from September. Mon.15:30-19:00 Tues.14:30-20:00 Wed.15:30-20:00 Thurs.14:30-18:00 Fri.15:30-20:30 2,000yen/hour + Trans. University Degree, experience and proper visa required. Pls email your CV with
recent picture. hanakotoba8758@ ybb.ne Contact: LANGUAGE CLUB HANAKotoba <hanakotoba8758@ ybb.ne.jp> [2885-1062-2015-08-20] PART-TIME ENGLISH TEACHERTUES & WED. Small, friendly
English School requires and English teacher for both kids & Adult Classes. Y2100/hr. Located between Fukaebashi (green line) & Shin Fukae (pink line) Stations. Send resume. Call Trish 090 1599 9767 for Interview. Contact: Osaka English Academy <info@osaka-eng. com> Website: www.osaka-eng.com [2897-5850-2015-08-21]
TEACHER NEEDED ASAP. Part Time English Teacher Position. 2000 yen a hour. Mondays Tuesdays Thursdays Saturdays We are located at Sugimotocho station on the Hanwa Line in Osaka. Contact Brian at staff@areyouglobal. net Contact: aaronoflion <staff@ areyouglobal.net> [2898-1900-201508-21]
PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER FOR SAT/SUN IN IZUMISANO.
Native English Teacher for adult and kids classes. Saturday 10-5 or 10-6 Sunday 10-5 or 10-6 2000 yen/ lesson+travel Must have a valid visa. Izumisano, Osaka Contact us for more details. gtec.recruiting@ gmail.com Contact: gitech <gtec. recruiting@gmail.com> Website: gtecbeta.seesaa.net/ [2822-1742-201508-22]
TEACHING POSITIONS AT TRINITY MIRAI INTERNATIONAL. Trinity
Mirai International is looking for part/full time teachers. Our school is situated in Hirakata City. Applicant must love working with young children. Various positions are available so please send your resume and inquires to info@ trinitymirai.com Contact: Trinity Mirai <info@trinitymirai.com> Website: www.trinitymirai.com [2847-5812-2015-08-01]
ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED FOR ADULTS. Part time English
Teacher Position Tuesdays 11:00am to 2pm Wednesdays 1pm to 4pm Thursdays 1pm to 4pm Saturdays 1pm to 4pm Proper visa required No experience required 1000yen /hour ¥2500 yen /hour Sakasegawa station of Hankyu Line Please send an e-mail with resume to chachaenglish200 Contact: CHACHA English <ruriminori2004@yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.chachaenglish.com/ [2926-1953-2015-08-23]
PART-TIME PRIVATE TEACHING JOBS IN ALL KANSAI AREA.
Looking for language students? Have you already registered at hello-sensei ? Pick your lesson fee, schedule and location then students will directly contact you! Available for : English, Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Thai,
Noah House
We help you find the best apartment in Osaka! Move in smoothly with only a credit card! No guarantor required! Contact us for more information and available rooms!
50% OFF Agent Fee with this AD
06-6633-0591 070-5341-2336 (Frances) nrhouse@dream.ocn.ne.jp
nrhouse.info
42
Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds Vietnamese, Indonesian, Burmese and Arabic Contact: hell-sensei <contact@hello-sensei.com> Website: hello-sensei.com/en/sensei
gmail.com> Website: www.atr.jp/ index_e.html [2853-5815-2015-08-02]
[2646-1905-2015-08-12]
yet exclusive fast growing name badge company from Australia looking for a part time staff for our production team in Sannomiya, Kobe. Artisanal work and perfect eyesight required. For more details, check this out. http://bit.ly/1OfIpMk Contact: NBI <sachiko@ namebadgesinternational.jp> Website: namebadgesinternational. jp/ [2886-5847-2015-08-15]
ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED FOR ADULTS & KIDS. Small yet
friendly and growing school in Settsu looking for English teachers for kids and adults. MondayーFriday afternoonーevening. Experience preferred but not required. Please send your CV and photo via email to abies kids@yahoo.co.jp We look forward to meeting you soon! Thank you :) Contact: abies English Room <abies_kids@yahoo.co.jp> [2933-5832-2015-08-26]
CES IS SEEKING ENGLISH/OTHER LANGUAGES CORPORATE. CES
is seeking corporate language instructors / interpreters (2-7 teaching hours a day) Hyogo, Shiga, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama and Wakayama areas for 3-12mth courses starting immediately. P/t hourly rates. 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> [2930-772016-01-27]
QUALIFIED JAPANESE INSTRUCTORS WANTED. We are
looking for experienced, qualified Japanese language teachers for our new weekend (private and group) classes. Native Japanese speakers only. Please send CV to <concierge@excitingjapan.com> Website: excitingjapan.com
General FLUENT ENGLISH SPEAKERS NEEDED FOR AN EXPERIMENT.
Looking for fluent English speakers to role-play social interactions in a robotics lab in southern Kyoto prefecture from June 24 - Aug 24 for at least one 3-hours session. Flexible time, 1000yen/hour with 1000yen travel expenses. Nearest train station: Gakken Nara Tomigaoka. Contact: atrexperiment@gmail.com Contact: ATR <ATRexperiment@
PT PRODUCTION STAFF FOR OZ NAME BADGE COMPANY. Small
FOREIGN NATIVE SPEAKERS WANTED !!. The Job consists of
language check & correction of car navigation screens. We are looking for people who are native or fluent in European, Southeast Asian languages. Experience with PC (Excel, etc.) is preferred. Please add an resume and language skills in the mail. Please contact us for more information. Contact: Kobe Addtech <j_kosaka@kobe-addtech. co.jp> Website: www.kobe-addtech. co.jp/ [2923-1927-2015-08-23] SEARCHING FOREIGN GIRL MODEL FOR ONLINE CAMPAIGN.
Searching foreign girl model for online campaign for our Taiko class webpage. No previous modeling experience needed, but if you have some modeling experience it will be highly appreciated. Please send us your photos with short info about yourself. Pay will be 10,000 Yen for few hours of work. Location Kyoto Contact: Taiko Center <taikocenter1@gmail.com> Website: www.taiko-center.co.jp/ english/ [2921-5842-2015-08-22]
Entertainment PROJECT MUSIC DIRECTOR. Tunes For Tohoku, a musically based project that aims to raise $10,000 for the orphans of Tohoku by March 11, 2016, is looking for a motivated individual with a passion for music to fill the voluntary position of joint Music Director. Please email your CV and cover letter. DEADLINE:
23rd of July, 2015 Contact: Alicia Marie Sparnon <aliciasparnon@ hotmail.com> [2870-5747-2015-08-08] SHOW DANCERS WANTED.. The Burlesque Entertainment Cabaret in Namba is looking for show dancers. Approx. 3 performances a night between 7pm–1am. Decide your own schedule. If you love music and dance or are serious about dancing we want to hear from you! Over 18yrs old only. From ¥2,200/ hr. Must speak some Japanese. Tel: 0120-300-440 Contact: The Burlesque Entertainment Cabaret <shinji-kawada@insou-west.co.jp> Website: en.the-burlesque.com
Media / IT WRITERS TO DEVELOP CONTENT FOR WEB SITES. Looking for
論、接客のスキルアップをしたい! 新し い環境の中で自分の実力を試したい! な んて思っている、明るく元気なスタッフ を大募集しています! 国際色豊かな白 馬村で数々のホテル・シャレー・レストラ ンの経営を営んでいる白馬ホテルグル ープでは、あなたにあったスキルを活か せる様々なポジションをご用意しており ます。未経験の方も大歓迎です。ベテ ランスタッフが丁寧にお仕事を教えま すので、安心してご応募下さい。 興味 のある方は是非下記のアドレスに履歴 書を添付してお問い合わせ下さい。皆 様からのたくさんのご応募を楽しみに お待ちしております! Contact: HHG
<julian@hakubahotelgroup.com> Website: hakubahotelgroup.com/ [2918-5861-2015-08-21]
Classes & Events
writers / researchers to deliver content for JAPAN travel and transportation websites. Project consists of sites covering major cities. Intend to set up team of bilingual writers for main locations to produce quality content. The first step will focus on Kansai and Tokyo. Contact: EUROACT <w.kortekaas@ euroact.co.jp> [2868-5825-2015-08-07]
Kitchen / waiting staff CHEF/COOK AND KITCHEN ASSISTANT. Cezars Kitchen Kobe
branch is looking for Chefs/kitchen staff to fill vacant positions at our Rokko Island location. Applicants must have proper working visa with minimum 3 years cooking experience. Great Salary Package, Mon – Fri shifts. Email Resume for full details. Contact: Vince bornino <vince@cezarskitchen.com> [283479-2015-07-31]
Hospitality 世界中からお客様が訪れる、日本屈指 のスノーリゾート白馬で今年の冬一緒 に働きませんか?. 世界でもパウダー 聖地と呼ばれている白馬で、スキー・ス ノーボードも楽しみながら、英語力は勿
Courses and Classes 国内で留学体験。岡山英語村、長期 滞在スパルタコース(Okayama English Village). 岡山県中央部の 吉備中央町の古民家で外国人旅行者 に囲まれて留学体験しませんか?長期 滞在スパルタコース(1ヶ月22万円~0の ほか、日帰りや1泊からの滞在もOK。1 レッスン90分で4000円。標高400メート ルの高原なので、夏でもクーラー要らず の涼しさです。Contact: nanovillage
<mkida@nanolinks.co.jp> Website: www.velco-english.com/ [28355797-2015-07-26]
Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds ENGLISH IMMERSION CHANCE 演劇・舞台芸術の為のノウハウを英語 で学びましょう!. Are you studying
English but need a fun, natural atmosphere to use your skills? Stage Academy provides opportunities for you to Sing, Act, Dance, Stage Fight, Prepare Speeches, Write, Film & More! Learn from USJ, Disney and New York professionals. All speaking levels from kids to seniors welcome. 夏期講習入会者募 Contact: Stage Academy of Performing Arts (Osaka), International <stageacademy.osaka@gmail. com> Website: www.facebook.com/ stageacademy.japan [2892-52512015-08-16] JAPANESE TUITION VIA SKYPE!!.
Hi, I'm a 25 years old Japanese man, qualified and experienced in Japanese teaching. I lived in Australia for two years and taught Japanese at a local high school. I'm offering Japanese lessons via Skype or in person For further information please send me an email weedax0303@gmail.com Contact: Taiki <weedax0303@gmail. com> [2883-5843-2015-08-14] LET'S STUDY JAPANESE IN UMEDA,OSAKA!!. Let's study
Japanese @cafe in Umeda, Osaka. Text book is "みんなの日本語" and others..also anything you like. *Trial lesson is free. *Private lesson, per hour / ¥3000 *Group lesson 2-3 students, per hour / ¥2500 Beginner's class welcome. Please contact→kimmylesson@ gmail.com Contact: Kimmylesson <kimmylesson@gmail.com> [29015852-2015-08-21]
Community Other OSAKA BASKETBALL CLUB. Do you want to shoot some hoops, but find can't find anyone to play with? Are you stuck in a rut fitness wise and find routine exercises boring? Or are you learning to play and need some pointers? If you said yes to any of these questions then this is the group for you! Contact: Alicia Marie
Sparnon <aliciasparnon@hotmail. com> Website: www.facebook.com/ groups/osakaballers/ [2749-5747-201508-24]
Language Exchange IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH (FREE).
Hi, I have noticed many friends in Japan are keen to improve their English by attending English classes. But some of you are still unable to communicate using simple English correctly after you have completed these classes. I can share a different way to learn. Message me if keen. kito (at) uk2.net Contact: kito <kito@uk2. net> [2914-5858-2015-08-21] FREE FRENCH/ENGLISH/RUSSIAN CONVERSATION MATSUBARA. I
am an Russian Canadian, living in Matsubara, close to Eganosho station. I am trying to learn Japanese and I am looking for someone to exchange languages with me in cafe in Matsubara. I'm offering free French/ English/Russian and some German conversation. Email: astgat@gmail. com Contact: Dmitri <astgat@gmail. com> [2776-5751-2015-08-04] 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> [2351-2007-2015-08-17]
SEEKING ENGLISH SPEAKER FRIENDS. We are looking for
someone who can come to see us regularly. We hope to have you in 4 days per a month with us in Yawata, and also 2-3 days per a month in our sister school in Uji. What we want is speaking English fluently and get fun with kids a lot in English. Mail us in detail Contact: Narumi ES <narumienglishschool@gmail.com> [2755-5725-2015-06-27]
FREE FRENCH/ENGLISH/RUSSIAN CONVERSATION MATSUBARA. I
am an Russian Canadian, living in
Matsubara, close to Eganosho station. I am trying to learn Japanese and I am looking for someone to exchange languages with me in cafe in Matsubara. I'm offering free French/ English/Russian and some German conversation. Email: astgat@gmail. com Contact: Dmitri <astgat@gmail. com> [2776-5751-2015-07-05] NEED HELP WITH MY JAPANESE.
Am in Japan for a couple of months and have been struggling with my limited Japanese. Looking for someone to meet in a cafe in Umeda to exchange languages. English for Japanese. Arigoto Contact: canadianinkansai <canadianinkansai@hotmail.com> [2728-1894-2015-07-16]
TALKS ON OUR CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN ENGLISH.
Interested in cultural differences between Westerners and Japanese . Please ask me what you don't really understand about Japan. Why Japanese can't answer to "why questions"? Why Japanese companies hold long meetings? etc. Contact: Shigeyuki Tomioka <s-tomi@mx5. canvas.ne.jp> [2785-5766-2015-07-08]
Community Services 日英翻訳者 (JAPANESE-ENGLISH TRANSLATOR). 東アジア文学専門 (日本語特)、 色々翻訳経験ある。 もっと言語・翻訳経験求めてる。 BA
in East Asian studies (Japanese lang. emphasis) with translation experience in multiple fields looking for more language experience. Contact: Scytale <dontgotnologin@ gmail.com> [2441-2177-2015-07-04] SCHEDULE A FREE RELAXATION SEMINAR. FREE Stress-Free
Seminars at your location. Learn powerful techniques that help companies and individuals cope with daily demands. Gain new insight into handling stress, from superunconscious. com. Contact: Professor Jay Tee <superunconscious@gmail.com> Website: www.superunconscious.com [2357-2045-2015-06-25]
43
Pets KHAO MANEE OR TURKISH ANGOLA CAT SOUGHT. Hoping
to adopt a Khao Manee or Turkish Angola cat or find others who love these breeds also. Any age of cat is fine. Breeders can contact me also. Contact: Sakura <larcencielsakura@ gmail.com> [2816-5782-2015-07-19]
Friendship LOOKING FOR A JAPANESE MALE FOR FRIENDSHIP OR MORE. こん
にちは。I am a Chinese girl of her
22,s. I want to make friendship or probably more relation with a polite Japanese person. I like Japan very much and can speak Japanese a little bit. I also can speak English properly. I am very cute and attractive young lady. E-mail: sunshinelover001@ yahoo.com Contact: Quin <sunshinelover001@yahoo.com>
[2829-5780-2015-07-23]
MR FUNNY-MOUTH IN OSAKA.. SJM, 41yo is looking for a woman who has a charming personality. I am creative, like to work out, social, and speak English. Any ethnic is fine, but my successful relationship in the past was with people who had university education in the U.S. Contact: Osamu <osamu.sononaka@ gmail.com> [2791-5776-2015-07-11] LOOKING FOR LONG TERM FRIEND.
hi , i am 40s looking for sincere woman , i can speak japanese and chinese ,english , i am in fashion field , divorced , and living kyoto , if you are really looking for long term happy relationship then please contact me . Contact: alexvin <alexvin@qq.com> [2641-5635-2015-07-08]
Sorry… Due to space restrictions we are unable to print all classified ads. See kansaiscene.com for more classifieds online.
Umeda
Umeda Sky Building German Consulate 35F
Yodobashi Camera
Dojima
r ive
jim
Do
Ke
Nishi Umeda
Ostec Exhibition Hall
Post Office
Bank
Police Station
Hospital
Hotel
Church
Shrine
Nishi Tenma
y(Loop Route )
Keihan Main
Movie Theatre
Na
niw
5
aba
shi
Line
Kitahama 0
Temple
Museum of Oriental Ceramics
Osaka City Public Hall
Boston Clam Shack
Kitahama
Edobori
YMCA
US Consulate
ma Dori
Yodoyabashi
Rihga Royal Hotel
Beer Belly
Mitsui Sumitomo Bank
Shinmei Law Office
City Hall
Tosabori River
APA Hotel
e
Nakanoshi
Bank of Japan
Higobashi
n ka a N
National Museum of Art Science Museum
Tanimachi Lin
ACCJ Kansai
Oebashi
i bebash Watana ine L a im anosh
ma
i
h os
Ana Crowne Plaza
5F
Hanshin Expresswa
ihan-Nak
aR
6F Untitled
Dojima Hotel
NTT Data
Dojima River Forum ABC Hall
Hotel Elsereine Osaka
Shin Midosuji
T
3/4F
e
JR
Hotel Kansai
Beer & Pizza GO_SUKE
ji Lin
Fu
e
Ma shin a. e Han a St i Lin him oza kus
1F
Kita Shinchi
Dojima Avanza 4F Junkudo
Ogimachi Dori
osu
Mister Kelly’s
in in L
Tower Records
Dai-4 Bldg.
ade
idori Arc
Higash
6F The Blarney Stone
Umeda Burg7
Ogimachi Park
Club Quattro
Mid
Fukushima e
Yotsubashi Lin
ta.
aS
im sh
Maru Bldg.
E-ma
Asahiya Bookstore
Osaka Dental Clinic Dai-3 Dai-1 Creamy Bldg. Dai-2 Bldg. 2F Bldg. 33F Exeo Kita Shinchi 1F Capt. Kangaroo
Outback Steakhouse Herbis Ritz Osaka .2 Carlton No ute Ro
ns Ha Hilton Hotel
a
TGI Fridays
ta. aS ed m Hanshin U Dept. hin
Osaka YWCA
Hankyu
Sonezaki Police H.Q.
med
Herbis Ent
Hankyu Dept.
Daimaru Umeda
shi U
Hilton Plaza West
Navio Toho Plex
Higa
Hotel Granvia
da
Visitors’ Information Center
Hankyu Grand Bldg
ri
Hotel Kinki
Hep 5 Hep Navio
Ume
Lucua
JR Osaka Mitsukoshi Isetan Osaka Station City
M
Toho Annex
jim
Osaka Loop Line
do
a-
ko
iya
ho
i-c
k za
a
ak
N
Club Noon
Hankyu Umeda Kinokuniya Sta. ABC Mart
Umekita Ship
Craft Beer Base
Maruzen & Junkudo
New Hankyu Osaka Hotel
Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital
Westin Hotel
Loft
Theater Umeda
InterContinental Osaka Hotel
200m
6
N
Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)
Namba Shrine Moe Joe Hearton Hotel
Shinmachi Life
Big Beans Supermarket
Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office
Mizuho Bank
Nishiohashi
7-ELEVEN
Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
Hotel Via Inn
Louis Vuitton
Triangle
Yotsubashi line
Triangle Park Grand Cafe Ghost Ultralounge
Naniw
2F Tezukayama Gallery Orange Stree t (shopping street)
Coolabah APA Hotel
Dotonbori
River
L&L
Daimaru Dept.
Onzieme 11F Cinem @rt Apple Store
Balabushka 4F
Shinsaibashi
Cross Hotel
Ark Hotel
3F GS Travel
B1 Club Q
HigashiShinsaibashi
Fujiya Hotel
Zerro
Soemon-Cho B1 Burlesque
4
B1
Pure Osaka
Don Quijote
Kaneyoshi Ryokan
Mexico Namba Hatch
Dotonbori
Osaka Shochikuza
Dotonbori Hotel
a. a St
Namba Sta.
JR N
Junkudo
ba
amb
Namba
Nam
OCAT
Hotel Monterey
Inari AEON MaxValu
Namba
Absinthe Solaar 8F
Motomachi
5
BIC Camera
Visitors Information Center
Hotel Ichiei
Nipponbashi sta.
Sennichimae line
Toho Cinemas Namba
Little Long Beach
Washington Hotel Plaza
Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn
Namba Hips Tominaga Hospital
3
B1
Suomachi-dori (Europe street)
Kansai Tourist Information Center Don Quijote
Yamaya
Nagahoribashi
Murphy’s 2F Comfort Hotel The Blarney Stone
Daimaru Dept. South
Midosuji line
Horie Park
The Silver Ball Planet Big Step
5F Boy
Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)
Yotsubashi
OPA
GAP
Uniqlo
Daimaru Dept. North
Nikko Hotel Cafe Absinthe
MinamiHorie
a-suji
Kitahorie Hospital
Nest Hotel
Sakaisuji line
D & Dept.
The Westside
Hearton Hotel
Tokyu Hands
Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line
Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F
Toyoko Inn
Covent Garden
Minami-semba
Arthur Murray
Nagahori dori
Shinsaibashi
KitaHorie
1
Takashimaya Dept. Store
Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
Cine Pop
Namba Oriental Hotel
Junkudo MUJI/LOFT Tower Records
Nankai Namba Station
Fraser Residence
Misono Building
Namba Plaza Hotel
6
NipponBashi
McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium
Namba -naka
7
Namba PARKS
Pub Bar 30 2F Naniwa Sports Center Naniwa Post Office
Toys”R”Us Jack and Queen Naniwa Ward Office
Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba
N 0
Post Office
Bank
Police Station
Hospital
Hotel
Church
Shrine
Temple
100m Movie Theatre
8
Shinsaibashi/Namba
Orix Theater
Kobe YWCA
Kobe Sauna
Kobe Ikuta Junior High School
lin e ay su bw Ya ma te Sh iei Temple
Movie Theatre
Kobe Kokusai Shochiku 0
Sanjo
Sanjo
Movix Kyoto Mina
Kawaramachi
Marui
Takashimaya
Yamatoji-dori
Keihan Line
Kiraku Inn
ori awa-d Shirakkawa river Shira
The Gael Irish Pub
Gion s hijo
World
Pontocho
Kiyamachi-dori
Kawaramachi-do
Sanjo Kyoto Royal BLDG.
ri
Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai
Wakamatsu-dori
Butterfly
Junkudo 7F Bal
OPA
Fuji Daimaru
Shijo-dori Minamiza Theatre
Church
Shrine
Temple
Movie Theatre
Gion Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art Gion Hotel
Joko-in
0 Hotel
200m
Oike-dori
Sanjo-dori
Hankyu Line
N
Hotel Okura
Kyoto Royal Hotel Kyoto Asahi Kaikan Starbucks
Gokomachi-dori
Fuyacho-dori
Tominokoji-dori
Yanaginobanba-dori
Sakaimachi-dori
Shrine
Port liner
Kyoto
Church
Kobe City Hall
Shiyakushomae
Kawara Machi
Hospital
Hotel
Sannomiya Hanadokeimae st.
Aoyama
Mitsui Sumitomo Bank
Jomo Gas
Police Station
no
San
Hospital
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
Flower road
Tozai Subway Line
Bank
Police Station
d.
e
Minato Bank
Kyoto City Hall
Post Office
Bank
miya
Sanchika un
Daimaru Dept.
Kainan lin
Teramachi Area
Ali’s Kitchen 3F
Route 2 San Plaza Sannomiya Cine Marui Center Center Guild Phoenix Plaza East Plaza 2F West Junkudo Kowka Kyukyoryuchi 4F Daimarumae
Nankin-machi
Sansei Hosp.
Midnight 5F Iznt Hobgoblin 4F 7F Sannomiya
Hanshin line
Motomachi
Daimaru
Tokyu Hands
Post Office
sudo Kobe kosokutet
Subway
Ikuta jinja
Mickey’s Club 5F Hotel Monterey
JR Motomachi sta.
Kobe Grocers
Ikuta Police Station
Oriental Dental Clinic Hotel 4F Tor Road
Hyogo-ken Prefectural Hall
Kobe Womens Junior College Yamate kansen
a
zak
do
Fu
Hanamikoji-dori
St. Michael’s International School
Kitanozaka
Pearl Street
Kobe Mosque
Soraku Park
1F Bistrot Cafe De Paris
Hunterzak a
Kitano-cho Tor Road
Sannomiya
Yamamoto-dori
200m
N Yasaka Jinja