Kansai Scene #198 November 2016 by Kansai Scene Magazine

Free monthly guide covering Osaka • Kyoto • Hyogo • Nara • Wakayama • Shiga

NOV 2016 / ISSUE 198

Kumano Kodo Hiking to Hot Spring Heaven PLUS+

THIS MONTH’S KANSAI EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

AMERICA’S FAVORITE FOODS IN KOBE

A NIGHT UNDER THE KYOCERA DOME

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Kansai Scene provides monthly English articles, information and listings for visitors and residents of the Kansai area. Publisher.......................................................Daniel Lee Managing Editor..........................Celia Polkinghorne Editor.........................................................Jason Haidar Production Manager............................... Misa Matsui Production Assistant......................... Miyoko Morita Accounts Manager..................................Michiko Lee Art.........................................................Peggy Holsclaw Cinema.................................................. Miyoko Morita Event & Festival....................................Yuki Uchibori Live Music.............................................Phillip Jackson Club............................................................Terumi Tsuji

Contact Kansai Scene General ...........................mailbox@kansaiscene.com Editorial...............................editor@kansaiscene.com Advertising .......................... sales@kansaiscene.com Tel. ............................................................06-6539-1717 Fax. ...........................................................06-7635-4791 Address........................................Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, ............................................................ Shinmachi 3-5-7, ................................................................... Eiko Bldg. 2F ................................................................ Mojoworks KK Website............................................. kansaiscene.com

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Also, be sure to check out our list of events and festivals on page 4 for ideas of things to see and do to make the most of the beautiful autumn season. Don t miss the 10th anniversary of Kameraoke – Kansai s community photo hunt and exhibition. Plus, why not get started early on those New Year s resolutions to become fitter, healthier, and more charitable by donning a Santa suit and taking part in Osaka s Great Santa Fun Run! All this and plenty more awaits you in Kansai this month.

What’s on Around Kansai Events & Festivals......................................................04 Art ...........................................................................................10 Live Music ..........................................................................13 Club ........................................................................................ 18 Cinema................................................................................ 20 Classifieds........................................................................ 30 Getting Around / Maps............................................34

ON THE COVER: This month’s cover photo was taken by Jason Haidar at Kumano Nachi Taisha in Wakayama.

Postcards From Kumano Kodo

A six-day pilgrimage to the sacred sites in Wakayama s rugged wilderness.

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

FEATURE Text: Celia Polkinghorne

Inside Kyocera Dome

Reasons to save yourself a spot in the bleachers for the 2017 baseball season.

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

Photo: Jason Haidar

About Kansai Scene

This month we head south to Wakayama to explore one of Japan s (and arguably the world s) premier hiking trails – the magnificent Kumano Kodo. This World Heritage pilgrimage trail still is truly one of Kansai s hidden gems – a window into ancient Japan and a celebration of the ancient Japanese people s true connection with nature. On page 24 we present a six-day itinerary for anyone considering hiking the Nakahechi trail (now is a great time to start planning and booking for a spring hike as the limited accommodations along the trail can book out well in advance).

FEATURE Text: KS

Foodspotting

Treat your tastebuds to the divine flavors of some true American favorites in one of Kobe s most stylish neighborhoods. FOOD & DRINK Text: Judith LaFaver

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Events NOV

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

NOV >

UNTIL NOV

A Classic Japanese Performance Art 神泉苑狂言

Martin Creed マーティン・クリード Photo by Hugo Glendinning

Shinsenen Kyogen –

Kyoto Experiment 2016 Autumn KYOTO EXPERIMENT 京都国際舞台芸術祭 2016 AUTUMN

Shinsenen Temple, Kyoto • Nov 4–6

Masked actors make the audience roar with laughter with their funny gestures. Animated in colorful costumes and accompanied by gongs, ﬂutes, and taiko drums, the actors perform Shinsenen Kyogen, a classical Japanese performing art held annually at this historic temple. Kyogen, literally meaning mad words, is a traditional comedy that teaches Buddhist beliefs through funny stories. Unlike more widespread kyogen styles, all the actors wear masks and play without dialog in Shinsenen kyogen. TIME: 6:30pm–9:30pm Nov 4; 1pm–9:30pm Nov 5 & 6 • ADMISSION: A donation • ACCESS: Nijojo-mae Subway Stn, 2-min walk • shinsenen.org

ROHM Theatre Kyoto, and various locations, Kyoto • Oct 22–Nov 13 For the seventh Kyoto Experiment festival, artists from Kyoto and around Japan will join Japanese peers based overseas in France, Austria, and Thailand as well as artists from Malaysia, Argentina, the UK, and India in a packed lineup of 12 productions and projects. In contrast to the spring festival that focused on art expressed through the body, the autumn program emphasizes theater and text-based performing arts in order to explore the systems and frameworks of language and logic that prescribe our world. TIME: depends on event • ADMISSION: depends on event • kyoto-ex.jp

Kemari – Ball Game Festival 蹴鞠祭

Tanzan Shrine, Nara • Nov 3 An elegant ball game that was popular during the Heian period with the Japanese Imperial Court will be played in early autumn. Scarlet and golden autumn leaves provide the perfect backdrop for this historic event known as kemari at Tanzan-jinja. Wearing brightly colored kimono, players gracefully kick and pass the ball to one another. Legend has it that Prince Nakano Oe (later Emperor Tenji, the ruler who freed the Japanese court from the control of the domineering Soga family) first met his vassal Kamatari Fujiwara (who helped him assasinate a key Soga clan member) at a kemari event in the 7th century. To commemorate this historical fact, Tanzan-jinja – housing the deity Kamatari Fujiwara – hosts the ancient ball game biennially in spring and autumn. TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR / Kintetsu Line, Sakurai Stn, bus to Tanzan-jinja • tanzan.or.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / KANSAI TEMPLE MARKETS

Events

NOV

Explore Kansai s wonderful monthly temple markets and grab a bargain. You ll find a lot of antiques, including old kimono, ceramics and lacquerware, but you may also unearth some more contemporary curiosities. Perfect as souvenirs or gifts for friends and relatives back home. » Shitennoji Temple Flea

Market:

Nov 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka • Access: 5-min walk from Shitennojimae Stn, Tanimachi Line » Toji Market Kyoto:

Nov 21 • Toji Temple • Access: 15-min walk from JR Kyoto Stn » Kitano Tenmangu Market:

Nov 25 • Kitano Tenmangu Shrine • Access: Tenman-gumae bus stop

Shitennoji Wasso – Celebration of Asia 四天王寺ワッソ

Naniwanomiyaato Park, Osaka • Nov 6 Wasso is a spectacular carnival commemorating the cultural exchange between Japan and other Asian countries. More than 1,000 participants will reenact extravagant ceremonies held in those times. One of highlights is the grand parade of ancient Chinese, Korean, and Japanese courtiers, which will start at 1:30pm: a thousand costumed people parade around the park performing exotic dance to traditional music. Enjoy Korean and Japanese cuisine and don t miss the chance to try on a traditional folk costume. TIME: 10:30am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Tanimachi-4chome Subway Stn • wasso.net

NOV

Arashiyama Scarlet Maple Festival 嵐山もみじ祭り

Togetsukyo Bridge and Surroundings, Kyoto • Nov 13

Against the backdrop of autumnal Mount Arashiyama, a spectacular pageant celebrating the beautifully coloured maple leaves is held annually on the second Sunday of November in Kyoto. Enjoy a variety of performances on show in wooden boats ﬂoating on the Oi River. Traditional performing arts such as a noh play, bugaku dance, an ikebana (Japanese ﬂower arrangement) demonstration and more can be seen from the north bank of the Oi River. An actress playing Shimabara Tayu – a courtesan from the samurai period – will perform a tea ceremony at 1pm and a parade featuring Edo-period courtesans will take place at 2:30pm. TIME: 10:30am (cancelled if rainy weather) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keifuku Line, Arashiyama Stn, 5-min walk • kanko.city.kyoto.lg.jp/area/hoshokai/hoshokai_13.html

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

NOV

Kameraoke 2016: MADE カメラオケ2016！

Pinebrooklyn Gallery, Fukushima-ku • Nov 20

Meet the photographers, vote on your favorite shots, and enjoy the fun at the 10th anniversary of the Kameraoke community photo exhibition! There will be live performances from improv jazz band Out Of Dust, as well as from fusion belly dancer Yesim, and instrumentalist Cloneliness, who will together perform a piece inspired by this year s themes. Winning photos will be chosen by the public and winners will receive a commemorative photo book and T-shirts courtesy of Gekka. You can also enjoy drinks and food catered by Kalakas on the rooftop! TIME: 1pm–10pm (changed from previous time of 2pm–9pm) • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • ACCESS: JR Tozai Line, Shin Fukushima Stn, 5-min walk; Hanshin Main Line, Fukushima Stn, 3-min walk from the east entrance gate; Osaka Loop Line, JR Fukushima Stn, 7-min walk • Like us on Facebook or find us at [kameraoke.com]

Osaka Great Santa Run Osakaグレートサンタ•ラン

Osaka Castle Park • Nov 27

Join 10,000 other Santa-suit-clad runners for this 5km fun run held in scenic Osaka Castle Park! Started in 2009, the charity event is now an annual winter attraction that welcomes runners and walkers to join in the festive-season fun. The proceeds of the event are donated to sick children who will be in hospital on Christmas day. With a Santa fashion show and other fun live performances, it will be a memorable day out with friends and family (bring your pets)! The entry fee includes a Santa suit, to be collected on the day. Visit the website for more details. TIME: 9am • ADMISSION: ¥3,240 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Osakajokoen Stn • santa-run. com/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI ceremony served by geishas, an ikebana (ﬂower arrangement) demonstration, and many other delightful events. TIME: 11:30am–3:30pm (entrance until 1:30pm) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kitayama Subway Stn, bus to Kamigamojinja-mae • nishijin-nsk. jp/festival

Kanikaku Sai Festival – Memorial Service for Isamu Yoshii かにかくに祭

Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto • Nov 8

Until Nov 6: Mitsuki Umashi Festival

Osaka Danjiri Display 地車 in 大阪城 2016

Nov 5 & 6 Thirty danjiri (portable shrines) will parade around Osaka Castle Park showing off their elaborate carvings and decorations. The ﬂoats look especially spectacular at night when they are lit with paper lanterns. TIME: 10am–8pm Nov 5; 10am–4:30pm Nov 6 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osakajokoen Stn • danjiri-osakajyo.com

Humanoid Rescue Robot Contest 2016 ヒト型レスキューロボットコンテスト

2016

Osaka ElectroCommunication University, Osaka • Nov 6 This annual rescue-robot contest was ﬁrst held in 2000. Humanoids, each of them manoeuvred by single operator, will compete in the tasks designed to help people in emergency situations. TIME: 12 Noon–5:30pm • ADMISSION:

Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Neyagawashi Stn, 3-min walk • jiyukobo-oecu.jp

Sakuya Konohana Art Festival 2016 咲くやこの花芸術祭 2016

Osaka Central Public Hall • Dec 2 & 3

An exhibition of performing arts that have been awarded the Sakuya Konohana prize. Active both home and abroad, these artists participate in the festival to showcase their new works. Also featuring comedy, ballet, a Japanese puppet show, and more, the festival has something for everyone. TIME: 6:30pm Nov 2; 11am Nov 3 • ADMISSION: depends on event • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi Stn • sakuya-konohana.com/sakuya2016/ index.html

Nara Mitsuki Umashi Festival 2016秋平城京天平祭みつきうま

An annual festival celebrating this castle town s history and culture. The exciting events include a samurai warrior parade, street performances, a staged sword ﬁght, and many other attractions. TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Tubosakayama Stn, 15-min walk • sightseeing.takatori. info/event/20161123_siromaturi28.html

Beautiful autumn ﬂowers make this festival a wonderful visual spectacle. With stage performances, market stalls, and events for families, the festival at the ancient capital Heijokyo is a wonderful celebration of traditional Japanese culture. A special Blue Impulse ﬂight exhibition will be on the 5th and 6th. TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line Yamatosaidaiji Stn, 15-min walk • tenpyosai.jp

Takatori Castle Festival たかとり城まつり

Tosa-Kaido Street and Surroundings, Nara • Nov 23

TIME: 11am–2pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Gion-shijo Stn, 10-min walk • kyoto-kankou. or.jp/info_search/?event_ id=7423&r=1443678231.0121

Tengu Goblin Festival

Kyoto Autumn Antique Doll Exhibition 秋の人形展

Hokyoji Temple, Kyoto • Nov 1–30

し祭り

Heijokyo Palace Site, Nara • Until Nov 6

Traditionally dressed geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) will perform at this This is a memorial service for Isamu Yoshii, the playwright who loved and was inspired by the Gion district of Kyoto. This event is a rare opportunity to take photographs of geisha and maiko.

This classic Buddhist convent will showcase some beautiful antique dolls which successive emperors sent their daughters. TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Horikawa Teranouchi • hokyoji.net

2016 Nishijin Kimono Garden Party 2016 西陣きもの • 帯フェスティバル

Kamigamo Shrine, Kyoto • Nov 3 The Japanese traditional kimono is mainly worn just for special events these days. Held at the World Heritage site of Kamigamo-jinja, this event aims to encourage people to wear the kimono more. Enjoy a kimono contest, a tea

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

天狗の宴

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, Kyoto • Nov 13 Every year when the fall leaves turn, the magical Japanese creature known as the tengu comes down from Mt. Atago to Otagi Nenbutsuji, and a ritual to ward off evil spirits is performed. Shooting arrows in the air and loudly beating wooden clappers, these tengu work vigorously to scare away the evil spirits.

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: ¥300 • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Sanjo Stn, bus to Otagideramae • otagiji.com

Hot Air Balloon Flight 第40回熱気球琵琶湖横断

Lake Biwa, Shiga • Dec 3 & 4

Autumn Ceramics Sale 第23回窯元もみじまつり

Sennyuji Temple and Surroundings, Kyoto • Nov 19–27 Pick up some great bargains at this ceramics sale where over 30 pottery shops display their ﬁne wares at front of shop. This neighborhood is a beautiful spot for viewing maple leaves during the fall season. TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Sennyuji-

michi, 5-min walk • seiyoukai.com

Shiga Kusatsu Illumination Street 草津街あかり華あかり夢あかり

JR Kusatsu Station and Surroundings, Shiga • Nov 4&5 The historic town of Kusatsu, known as an important shukuba (post station) in the samurai period, will be illuminated with lanterns. Handmade lights will shed a soft glow on this historic street throughout its 1.5km from the station. There will be soothing music concert, tasty food stalls and various other attractions. TIME: 6pm–9pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: JR Kusatsu Stn • kusatsumachiakari.net

Kuge Yakko-Furi – Procession of The Court Infantrymen 福田寺公家奴振り

Fukudenji Temple, Shiga • Nov 13 Enjoy watching an elegant Japanese parade from the 18th century. You ll see yakko, court infantrymen, with the hem of their kimono tucked up, parading through the town. They will walk slowly in procession, sometimes giving rhythmical shouts, and other times they ll perform an impressive juggling act with long spears. TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR

Tamura Stn, 10-min walk • yakkonosato. sakura.ne.jp/index.htm

Colorful balloons will take to the sky from Omi Shirahama beach. Short balloon rides will be available at Aoyagi-shogako. Please note, adverse weather may result in cancellation. TIME: 7am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Omi-Takashima stn 5min by taxi to Omi Shirahama Suiei-jo • takashimakanko.jp/new/20141010_1704.html

Hyogo Miki Metal Goods Festival 三木金物まつり

Miki City Hall Square, Hyogo • Nov 5 & 6 A huge metal goods market will be held at Miki city, which is famous for its metal industry. Come and watch traditional Japanese blacksmiths demonstrate their trade, explore the farmers market, and join a knife-sharpening workshop. This big event draws around 100,000 people annually. TIME: 9am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kobe Dentetsu Line, Miki / Mikiuenomaru / Ebisu / Shijimi Stn, free bus to venue • city.miki.lg.jp/index.html

November Festival 霜月大祭

Harimanokuni Sosha Shrine, Hyogo • Nov 13–16

temple. More than 70 rare automobiles will be on show. These automobiles will tour to Shirahama hot spring at 8:30am on the 6th. TIME: 2pm–4pm Nov 5 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Line, Koyasan Stn, bus to Senjuin-bashi • eng.shukubo.net/eventcalendar.html#car

Lacquerware Fair 紀州漆器祭り

Kuroe Kawabata-Dori Street, Wakayama • Nov 5 & 6 One of the top four production areas of lacquerware in Japan, Kuroe hosts this annual event with a large lacquerware market that will be open in Kawabata Street, an area featuring wellpreserved Edo-period architecture. TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kainan Stn, free shuttle bus to venue • chuokai-wakayama.or.jp/ sikki-k/01_matsuri/01_matsuri.html

Scarlet Maple Leaves Festival 紅葉祭り

Kumano Nachi-Taisha, Wakayama • Nov 14

Events

Kansai Culture Day 関西文化の日

Fukui, Mie, Shiga, Nara, Kyoto, Wakayama, Osaka, Hyogo • Nov 19 & 20 Over 650 art museums, botanical gardens, and other institutions in the Kansai area will offer free admission for their permanent exhibitions. Make sure to enquire about the dates and opening hours of exhibitions before traveling to events. TEL: 06-4964-8844 • kansaibunka.com/ bunkanohi

Food Festival Wakayama 2016 食祭WAKAYAMA 2016

Wakayama Castle and Surroundings • Nov 23 Wakayama s largest celebration of food and drink is coming to Wakayama Castle Park. Come down and tuck into some Wakayama cuisine! TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Line Wakayama Stn, 10min walk • city.wakayama.wakayama.jp/ kankou/event/1003232/1013302.html

Ancient court people compose poems by a waterfall surrounded by the colors of autumn. This is part of a religious event held to commemorate the past Emperor Kazan who lived in the 10th century. TIME: 9am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kii-Katsuura Stn, bus to Nachisan, 15min walk • kumanonachitaisha.or.jp

At one of the largest religious festivals in Himeji, a puriﬁcation ritual is held at sea, there are martial arts demonstrations, and a religious dance is performed. TIME: 9am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn, 15-min walk • sohsha.jp

Wakayama Vetro Montagna Koyasan 2016 ヴェトロモンターニャ高野山2016

Kongobuji Temple, Wakayama • Nov 5 & 6 Every November, on the second weekend the month, world-renowned classic-model cars gather in Koyasan at the second car park of Kongobuji

Nov 13: Fukudenji Temple, Shiga

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Art

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI Rokko Meets Art – Art Walk 2016

“A Beautiful Life and a New Harmony” by Claude Monet Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art

Claude Monet used painting as a means of expressing his unique perception of the world by focusing more on light than realism. It was Monet s innovative style that gave a name to the Impressionist movement, after a critic labeled one of his works as a sketch or impression, rather than a ﬁnished painting. Monet loved the outdoors and ended up settling with his family in Giverny, where he bought property and designed exquisite gardens featuring the water lily ponds and Japanese-style bridges that would go on to become the subjects of some of his bestknown works. The Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art is currently celebrating the 20th anniversary of the museum with an exhibition of 20 of his paintings. Prominent works include Water Lilies and Morning in Étretat. Viewers can experience the same sense of meditation and comfort in the gallery that Monet felt while painting in his gardens. *The line-up is changed during the exhibition.

Claude Monet Exhibition • Until Dec 11 • OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon (except Nov 21, 28 & Dec 5) • ADMISSION: ¥900 • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Line, Yamazaki Stn & Hankyu Kyoto Line, Oyamazaki Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 075-957-3123 (Japanese guidance only) • asahibeer-oyamazaki.com

Keisuke YAMAMOTO Mountain of Dreams (Sleeping Me) 2016 Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden ©Keisuke Yamamoto , Courtesy of Koyama Art Projects

Art lovers are invited to experience an array of fresh creations from more than 40 Japanese and international artists while enjoying the autumn air and picturesque scenery of Mount Rokko. Mt. Rokko cable car & Tourism company is currently hosting the 7th annual Rokko Meets Art exhibition, a display of contemporary works held every year since 2010. Visitors will observe conceptual pieces spanning a range of genres placed at diﬀerent locations around the area. Creative mediums include painting, sculpture, installation, graphic design, and more. Immerse yourself in a world of imagination and originality set against a vibrant backdrop of prismatic fall leaves and stunning panoramic views of Osaka Bay. Art Walk Exhibition • Until Nov 23 • OPEN: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: ¥1850 • ACCESS: Hankyu Line, Rokko Stn, JR Rokkomichi Stn, bus to Rokko Cable Shita stop, 1-min walk, Rokko Cable Car to Rokko Sanjo Stn, Rokko Sanjo bus to each venue • TEL: 078-891-0048 • rokkosan.com/art2016/la

Venetian Renaissance Paintings from the Gallerie dell’Accademia, Venice The National Museum of Art, Osaka In celebration of the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy, an exhibition of some 60 superior works from the Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice is being held in Japan for the first time. This display features paintings created during the Italian Renaissance between the 15th and 17th centuries, a time when Venetian artists took an exceptional turn away from wellordered compositions in favor of bold, dramatic designs rich with color and emotion. Guests can savor this special opportunity to view an array of masterpieces by some of the most outstanding painters from the City of Water, including Giovanni Bellini, Carlo Crivelli, Vittore Carpaccio, Tiziano Vecellio, Jacopo Tintoretto, and Paolo Veronese. Venetian Renaissance Paintings Exhibition • Until Jan 15 • OPEN: 10am5pm (until 7pm Fri) • CLOSED: Mon & Dec 28 Jan 4 (open Jan 9, closed Jan 10) • ADMISSION: ¥1500 • ACCESS: Yodoyabashi Stn, 15-min walk • TEL: 06-6447-4680 • nmao.go.jp/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Jacopo Tintoretto (Jacopo Robusti,called), The Assumption of the Virgin Venice，Gallerie dell 'Accademia

Claude MONET, Water Lilies 1907 Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art

Rokko Garden Terrace

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Osaka Ukiyo-e From Various Aspects: The Color Blue Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum Museum of Osaka Prints •  Until Dec 4 Ukiyo-e prints and paintings have long garnered attention for their use of striking, bold colors. Prussian blue, in particular, is the shade that is said to have brought ukiyo-e widespread acclaim. This exhibition focuses on the variety and nuance of blue pigments used in ukiyo-e works from the Edo period. OPEN: 11am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥500 • ACCESS: Namba Stn, 7-min walk • TEL: 06-6211-0303 • kamigata.jp

Kyoto Yasuo Kiyonaga “Indulgence in the Autumn” Photo Gallery Artisan Japanesque •  Until Nov 30 As the colors of fall dance through the Kyoto air, photographer Yasuo Kiyonaga experiences pleasantly intoxicating hallucinations that fade with the season, leaving him in loneliness again. This selection of Kiyonaga s surreal works is a manifestation of his desire to capture the feeling of comfort brought by autumn each year. OPEN: 11am–6:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Tozai Subway Line, Higashiyama Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 075-746-2931 • artisan-tokyo.com

Marie Laurencin Exhibition Museum “Eki” Kyoto •  Until Nov 27 Marie Laurencin, the Cubist painter and printmaker of 20th century Paris, attracted attention for her enchanting pastel portrayals of young women, as well as the ups and downs of her turbulent personal life. This collection of 80 oil pieces provides an overview spanning the entirety of Laurencin s compelling career.

Art

Hyogo Marimekko Exhibition Otani Memorial Art Museum, Nishinomiya City •  Until Nov 27 Explore the history of Marimekko, the Finnish lifestyle brand whose colorful abstract designs can be found on clothes, bags, accessories, and home furnishings around the world. Fashion enthusiasts will enjoy this selection of 50 fabrics and 60 vintage dresses from the Design Museum in Finland. OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Wed (except Nov 23) & Thu Nov 24 • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: Hanshin Line, Koroen Stn, 8-min walk • TEL: 0798-33-0164 • otanimuseum.jp/home

Modern Children during the Taisho Period in Drawings Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History •  Until Nov 27 This exhibition features original paintings by prominent artists featured over many editions of Kodomo no Tomo, a popular magazine for children ﬁrst published in 1914. Visitors will witness the evolution of children s culture and gain insight into social changes that occurred throughout the Taisho and Showa periods. OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn, bus to Hakubutsukan-mae stop • TEL: 079-288-9011 • hyogo-c.ed.jp/~rekihakubo/english/about.html

The Dreams of Mother Earth KH Gallery Ashiya •  Until Dec 23 Artist Hiroko Koshino presents dynamic and expressive artworks rich with warm golds, reds, and cloud-like whites that depict the deepening of autumn. Experience this painter s creative journey between painting and fashion. OPEN: 11am–4pm • CLOSED: Wed • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Ashiya Stn, bus to Okuike stop • TEL: 0797-63-5678 • kh-gallery.com/en/ashiya

フランク•ブラングィン《松方幸次郎肖像》1916年松方家蔵 © David Brangwyn

The Old Matsukata Collection – The Dreams of Kojiro Matsukata Kobe City Museum Kojiro Matsukata, the third son of former Meiji-era Prime Minister Masayoshi Matsukata, was a passionate collector of international artwork. He began frequenting European galleries during World War I, eventually acquiring some 10,000 paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and articles of furniture. Around 400 surviving pieces came under the possession of the French government toward the end of World War II, and were given to Japan in 1959 as a sign of renewed friendship between the two nations. This exhibition is inspired by Kojiro Matsukata's desire to introduce exceptional art from around the globe to Japanese audiences. Some 160 works are currently on display, including a selection of ukiyo-e prints and historic masterpieces by prolific artists such as Picasso, Pissarro, Lautrec, and Brangwyn. Highlights include Lautrec's Woman Seated in a Garden from the Musée d Orsay and Picasso s Woman Reading from the Centre Pompidou. Matsukata Collection Exhibition • Until Nov 27 • OPEN: 9:30 am–5:30pm (until 7pm Sat) • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1500 • ACCESS: Sannomiya Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 078-391-0035 • www7. kobe-np.co.jp/blog/matsukata-collection

OPEN: 10am–8pm • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: Kyoto Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 075-352-1111 • kyoto.wjr-isetan.co.jp.e.do. hp.transer.com/museum

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Kula Shaker

Live Music

NOV

English psychedelic rock band Kula Shaker had much commercial success between 1996 and 1999 with hit singles Tattva, Hey Dude, Govinda, and Hush (a remake of the song made famous by Deep Purple). Going their separate ways in 1999 just after a second album Peasants, Pigs, and Astronauts, bassist Alonzo Bevan teamed up with Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr, drummer Paul Winterhart joined the band Thirteen:13, keyboardist Jay Darlington became a touring musician for Oasis, and singerguitarist Crispian Mills (son of British actress Hayley Hills) worked on solo and other projects (the band The Jeevas attained some success in Japan).

Kula Shaker returned at the beginning of 2006 and this year, with the original line-up, the band have a new album, K2.0, a sequel to their 1996 debut K. British psychedelic rock band • Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Nov / Dec Rock & Pop

Janus, Osaka • Pop • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

Personz

Rami

Nov 17

Nov 12

Japanese rock band formed 1983

Vocalist from metal bands Raglaia and Aldious Abeno Rock Town, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6632-6900

Heron Nov 16 UK classic folk-rock band since 1968 Taku Taku, Kyoto • Folk rock • 7pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Gordon Chambers Nov 17 US singer-songwriter and producer Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Soul/RnB • 7:30pm/9:00pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Kaori Sawada Nov 17 Japanese female pop vocalist

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Live Square 2nd line, Osaka • Rock jazz • 6:30pm • ¥2,300/¥2,800 • TEL: 06-6453-1985

Triceratops

Dreams Come True

Acoustic tour of Japanese rock band formed 1996

Nov 22 & 23

Namba Hatch • Acoustic rock • 7pm • ¥4,950 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Nov 25

Japanese pop-vocal-guitar duo Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Pop • 6pm Nov 22; 6:30pm Nov 23 • ¥7,330/¥8,330 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Liphlich

Nov 17

Con Brio

Japanese visual-kei rock band

Folk-rock band from Texas, USA Growly, Kyoto • 6:30pm • ¥3,000/¥3,500 • TEL: 075-366-6369

Nov 23

Hikes

Nov 18 Neverland, Nara • 6:30pm • ¥3,000/¥3,500 • TEL: 090-1142-1996

The Bohemians

US funk and psychedelic soul band since 2013 Shangri-La, Osaka • Funk • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

British psychedelic-rock band

Japanese ﬁve-piece rock band Janus, Osaka • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥3,240/¥3,780 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Rammels

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Yes Nov 24

Nov 21

UK classic prog-rock band

Japanese funk, soul, and rock inﬂuence new band

Varit, Kobe • Rock • 5:30pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

George Clinton & PARLIAMENT / FUNKADELIC Nov 28

Kula Shaker Nov 24

Nov 20

Nov 27

Orix Theater, Osaka • Prog Rock • 7pm • ¥9,000/¥10,000 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

With bands Parliament and Funkadelic Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Funk • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥15,000/¥16,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

65DAYSOFSTATIC Nov 29 UK post-rock four-piece Shangri-La, Osaka • Post Rock • 7:30pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 057-0200-8888

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

NOV

Con Brio Con Brio is a seven-piece, funk-rock band from San Francisco – a group of musicians sharing a love for funk and psychedelic soul in the vein of outfits like Sly & The Family Stone. The band spent a busy 2015 touring the US and Europe, and this year began to set their sights further afield. This will be their second time in Japan this year having appeared at the Fuji Rock Festival during the summer. Frontman Ziek McCarter says the band is ambitious and has many goals; We don t want to walk, we don t want to drive. We want to fly. We want to levitate! The latest Con Brio album Paradise is available to download online.

Yes

65DAYSOFSTATIC

Nov 24

Nov 29

The British band Yes epitomizes the genre of progressive rock – there simply is no other way to describe them. The current lineup may not be the original (sadly long-time bassist Chris Squire passed away last year) and some would say that it isn t a classic lineup, but Steve Howe is still hanging in on guitars and long-time drummer Alan White is returning after back surgery in the summer to play the Japan tour. Geoﬀ Downes, who has a long association with the band covers keyboards. With a career spanning 47 years and 21 studio albums the band that is known for its expansive songs, esoteric lyrics, elaborate album art, and live stage sets will be playing six dates in Japan across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka.

65DAYSOFSTATIC, an instrumental electronic post-math-rock band from England. First of all, what is electronic post-math rock!? Basically, it s a style of complex, guitar-based rock that began in the US in the late 80s. The genre is influenced by bands such as King Crimson (progressive rock or art rock). That description is obviously brushing over the details but gives a glimpse of what to expect from this four-piece.The first lineup of 65DAYSOFSTATIC came together in 2001 and the debut album The Fall of Math was released in 2004 (featuring the single Retreat!Retreat! ).The band s latest release is the soundtrack to the sci-fi game No Man’s Sky, titled Music For An Infinite Universe. The opening track Asimov is described as an epic adventure… opening with pounding drums that make you feel like you re taking flight into a Chris Foss (British sci-fi artist) painting – The Verge online magazine.

UK classic progressive rock pioneers • Prog rock • Orix Theater, Osaka • 7pm • ¥9,000/10,000 • TEL: 06-63414506

US Funk and psychedelic-soul rock band • Funk rock • Shangri-La • Osaka • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

UK post-rock four-piece • Shangri-La, Osaka • Instrumental rock • 7:30pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 057-0200-888

Live Music The Birthday

Wallis Bird

Nov 30

Dec 8

Japanese garage-rock band of past Thee Michelle Gun Elephant and Rosso members

Irish folk singer and guitarist

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Folk • 7:30pm • ¥5,000 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Swans

Jose Gonzalez

Dec 8

Nov 30

US experimental rock band

Pop-rock singer-songwriter and guitarist

Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Billboard live OSAKA, Osaka • Pop-rock • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥6,500/¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Mejibray

Angelo

Japanese visual-kei rock band

Dec 2

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 6pm • ¥4,320 • TEL: 057-0200-8888

Japanese visual-kei rock ﬁvepiece since 2006

Dec 8

Zigzo

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 057-0200-8888

Dec 9 & 10

Fire Horns

Japanese rock supergroup formed from visual-kei rock bands

Dec 2 Japanese trumpet, trombone, sax trio

Abeno Rock Town, Osaka • Rock • 7pm Dec 9; 6pm Dec 10 • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • TEL: 057-0200-8888

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Funk rock • 7:30pm/9:00pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Eikichi Yazawa

Arashi

Japanese actor and singer

Dec 2-4

Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Pop rock • 7pm Dec 10; 5:30pm Dec 11 • ¥5,500/¥12,500 • TEL: 06-6344-3326

Japanese boy vocal group

Dec 10 & 11

Kyocera dome, Osaka • Pop • 6pm Dec 2 &3; 4pm Dec 4 • ¥9,000 • TEL: 0180-993-707

Scoobie Do

FouFou

Japanese pop-rock four-piece

Dec 4

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Pop-rock • 6:30pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Japanese new four-piece album release tour Live Square 2nd Line, Osaka • Indie pop • 6pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 06-6453-1985

Dec 11

Air Supply Dec 15 Australian AOR pop-rock duo

Machico Dec 4 Japanese voice actress and singer Varit, Kobe • Pop • 5pm • ¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • AOR • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥12,000/¥13,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

The Muggles Every Fri & Sat

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

INTERVIEW

NOV

Heron Heron is an English folk group founded in 1967 featuring Roy Apps, Gerald Moore, Tony Pook, and Steve Jones. Coming together at a folk club in Maidenhead, England all those years ago, the band is eventually making its first trip to play in Japan where their first two albums have been re-released. KS spoke with Steve Jones to find out about the upcoming trip and also a little about their unusual early recording experiences. The two albums Heron and Twice as Nice and Half The Price are being re-released to coincide with Heron’s first visit to Japan. How did this latest Heron venture come together?

Yes, this is our first time in Japan. It s been a long time coming but it s very exciting, after all these years, that there s still a following of Heron fans who want to see us. We had arranged a mini tour some years ago, in fact the year of the tsunami, but because of the disaster it had to be cancelled and it looked as though we would never get the opportunity again. However, Wasabi Records was keen to release a Heron album and contacted us to see if we were up for it. On the strength of the failed mini tour we had, in fact, recorded a new album with the original Heron lineup. This album was Simple as One Two Three and Wasabi released it a couple of years ago. When the label heard about the Dylan tribute album we were working on they asked to hear the rough mixes. They liked it so much they agreed to another Heron album release. Titled Jokerman it was on sale last year. They then wanted to know if we would consider doing a mini tour in Tokyo and Kyoto and we leapt at the idea. Will the set-list for the Japan dates be showcasing Jokerman?

Although Jokerman was the last Heron album to be released by Wasabi records, it s not the only album we will showcase in the concerts. The first two albums ( Heron and Twice as Nice) are also scheduled for release to coincide with the tour, so we will include

songs from the past as well as the present. A bit of nostalgia never goes amiss and it gives us a rare chance to enjoy all our back catalogue. The first Heron album was recorded outdoors in a field by the River Thames. What memories do you have from that time and the actual recording process?

We recorded our maxi single Only a Hobo at Pye studios in London. We didn t find it very relaxing, so when we heard that there was a Pye mobile recording studio, we suggested doing the album at the farm in Berkshire where Tony Pook was living. It was an unusual idea and presented a number of problems, not least of which was the noise of the farm, trains, and passing boats on the river. The weather was fantastic – perfect for recording – so we sat in the middle of a field, enjoying the sun, and listening to the birds and the odd tractor, train, or boat. Fortunately, the unwanted noises didn t interfere too much, in fact, we were disappointed that the birdsong couldn t really be heard. So the engineers set up an extra mic about 50 metres away in a little wooded copse to capture the birdsong and rustling of leaves. When we came to mixing, we decided that honesty was the best policy and to keep any extraneous noise. The album was recorded in two afternoons and is probably the quintessential Heron album. Classic UK folk-rock band since 1967 • Folk rock • Taku Taku, Kyoto • 7pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Mellow ballads, classic rock and dynamic rock n roll from Osaka based jamming band

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Swing • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz funk • 7:30pm/9:00pm • ¥4,000/¥4,300 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Woodstock Café, Ashiya • rock and group sounds • Entrance free (¥2,000 snack + two drinks) • TEL: 079-734-1044

Pinky Winters

Lala Hathaway

Dec 5

Dec 13

US West Coast Jazz vocalist

US vocalist, daughter of soul singer Donny Hathaway

Jazz & Blues The Glenn Miller Orchestra Japan Tour 2016 Nov 29 US big band swing-dance orchestra

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Billboard live OSAKA, Osaka • Soul • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥12,000/¥13,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Club Quattro, Osaka • Soul jazz • 7:30pm • ¥7,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Sarah Maeda

The Stylistics

Dec 7

Dec 12–14

Japanese jazz saxophonist

US nostalgia male vocal group

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Pinky Winters @ Mister Kelly’s, Osaka

Club

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Namura Zosen Atochi November 25 (Fri)

The world s most in-demand techno queen Nina Kraviz will be back in Osaka in this November. A Russian-born, Siberian DJ and producer, Kraviz discovered dance music at a young age when she first heard the acid-house classic Downfall. She immediately got interested in the electronic sound and started her own techno/house show on a local radio station as well as spinning at small clubs. In 2006, she participated the Red Bull Music Academy in Melbourne and her music career took off. In 2007, she released her first EP from B77 label and also started performing regularly at the one of the biggest clubs in Moscow – Propaganda. In 2008, she signed to the Rekids label and released several EPs and her biggest track Ghetto Kraviz and last year she released her first official mixed CD from the acclaimed DJ-kicks series. In 2014, she launched her own music label трип (pronounced trip ) and it won Mixmag s Best Record Label of 2015. She also won DJ of The Year on Beatport, the world s biggest dance-music site. Alongside her in Osaka this month, one of the most vibrant Japanese female photographers Mika Ninagawa will collaborate with Kraviz doing the exclusive photo projection mapping. If you like techno and contemporary art, you can t miss this one.

November

9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

2 (Wed) Circus Jah Shaka Japan Tour 2016 (Dub/ Reggae) • ACTS: Jah Shaka, Kanayama, Sak-Dub-I • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,300 (ADV: ¥2,800) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

3 (Thu) Circus Extra! Extra! x Uprisemarket presents DJ Boogie Blind Japan Tour 2016 (Hip Hop) • DJS: Boogie Blind, Koco aka Shimokita, Joymen, Tsugu, Yasushi + more • OPEN:

4 (Fri) Circus June Miller Japan Tour in Osaka (Drum n Bass) • DJS: June Miller, Keshigomu, Mountain, Rasty • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Metro Raster-Noton 20 Year Anniversary Japan Tour in Kyoto (Electro) • ACTS: Alva Noto, Byetone, Robert Lippok, Anne-James Chaton, Dasha Rush, Tatsuya Shimoda • OPEN: 11pm •

NOV

Nina Kraviz

One Nation “Circus Loves Techno” Japan Tour 2016 (Techno) • DJS: Nina Kraviz, Bjarki + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,500) • WHERE: Kitakagaya • circus-osaka.com

ADMISSION: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,500/1D) •

World

TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Richie Hawtin presents Enter. Saka Japan Tour 2016 (Techno)

Rooftop Bar OO

• DJS: Richie Hawtin, Hito + more • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: TBA (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-213-4119 • worldkyoto.com

Sushi Records presents Nina Las Vegas (Bass/Dubstep) • DJS: Nina Las Vegas, Jaxx Da Fishworks, Shinya, Takekiyo Ishimoto, Young, Nazanael + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6211-0900 • oo-u.jp

Troop Cafe Connected Underground (Techno) • LIVE: KUF • DJS: Bee Lincoln, Ryoma Sasaki, Fulltono, Koichi, Testuya Kobayashi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

5 (Sat) Circus Circus & Perfect Touch presents Max Cooper Japan Tour Osaka (Electronic) • ACTS: Max Cooper, Erik Luebs, Aspara, Ekitova • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Jaai Sangoma Music (Trance) • Live: Suzi • DJS: Daksinamurti, Buzz, Ton, Cross Breed aka Sam, Ennoh, Senoh, Sayuri aka Frangipani • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • iflyer.tv/ ja/Bar-JAAI

Metro

11 (Fri)

19 (Sat)

Circus

Singh’s Kitchen

Circus presents Okadada x DJ Tasaka (Techno)

Unknown (Techno/House)

• DJS: Tasaka, Okadada • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,800) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Connected Underground (Techno)

Rooftop Bar OO

• LIVE: KUF, Bodil, B From Outatbero • DJS: Bee Lincoln, Ryoma Sasaki, Fulltono, Ouch!, Water Horiuchi • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Rack (Techno/House) • Live: Yullippe

Piccadilly

• DJS: Afamoo, Ashikaga, Mariko, Taiki, Yuta Aoki • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6211-0900 • oo-u.jp

Mirage (EDM)

Triangle

• DJS: Dannic, Benkay, Shinji, Silver Fox, Ray • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6809-5895 • clubpiccadilly.com

Triangle 5th Anniversary (Bass/ Drum n Bass/Hard Core)

Rooftop Bar OO Tunesisters Entertainment & Rooftop Bar OO presents BerlineGut X Japan (Techno) • Live: Dapayk, Manabu Kounushi • DJS: Dr.Motte, Nao Nomura, Dan Elliot, Monna Lisa, Taiki • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62110900 • oo-u.jp

Triangle Gouhou (Bass/Techno/House) • ACTS: Bruno Uesugi, Hiroki Yamamura, In The Blue Shirt, Kotonohouse, Momo + more • OPEN: 3pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500, FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

Troop Cafe Bush feat. Vera (Techno/House) • DJS: Vera, Soichi, Wataru Takagi, Maruotakeshi • OPEN: 10:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

• ACTS: Habanero Posse, Kuranaka, Zen-La-Rock, Fulltono, Sekitova, Numb’n’dub, Grindcircus + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.net

Circus City Boy Lounge – Axel Boman (House/Techno) • DJS: Axel Boman + more • OPEN: 6pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Troop Cafe Elite Party People presents Sex Tags Mania Japan Tour 2016 (Techno/House) • DJS: Sotofett, Fett Burger, Wada Yosuke, Mitsuk5 • OPEN: 10:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,500/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

20 (Sun) Circus Quarter presents Sudanim & MM Japan Tour in Osaka (Bass/Techno) • DJS: Sudanim, MM, Sou, Yyioy • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

12 (Sat) Circus Factory#11 feat. Lena Willikens (Techno) • LIVE: Makoto Murakami • DJS: Lena Willikens, Aluca, Koji Sawamura • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Troop Cafe DJ Gonno in Kobe (Techno/House) • DJS: Gonno + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

18 (Fri) Circus Circus presents Petre Inspirescu (Techno)

6 (Sun)

• DJS: Unknown DJ Team, Takuya Yamashita, Compufunk aka Lovegod, YuuskeUdon, Neya-B • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • WHERE: Nipponbashi • TEL: 06-6632-4433 • singhkitchen.com

• DJS: Petre Inspirescu + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

22 (Tue) Circus Stussy presents Stones Throw 20th Anniversary Japan Part1 – Live Showcase (Hip Hop) • ACTS: Karriem Riggins, J.Rocc, Guilty Simpson • OPEN: 7pm–11pm • ADMISSION: TBA (ADV: ¥3,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Club

• DJS: Boombox Cartel, Shinya, Nazanael, Young, Rico, Kazuya Imoto, Biscotti + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Metro ContaKt (Techno) • LIVE: Bodil • DJS: Sekitova, Shin, DeeJay Osahley, Naotoshi Wada, Tenkumo • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Troop Cafe Cabaret Recordings (Techno/ House) • LIVE: So Inagawa • DJS: Binh, Masda • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

26 (Sat) Circus Jameszoo Fool Album Release Tour Osaka (Electronic) • ACTS: Jameszoo + more • OPEN: 7pm–11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Metro Radikal Dubs – Ishan Sound & Rider Shaﬁque Japan Tour 2016 (Bass/Dubstep) • ACTS: Ishan Sound, Rider Shafique, Sak-Dub-I, Yousuke Yukimatsu, Aki, Mameron, Young Animal • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Troop Cafe

Circus

Mojuba Nache (Techno/House)

Stussy presents Stones Throw 20th Anniversary Japan Part2 –All Night DJ Party (Hip Hop)

• DJS: Don Williams + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

• DJS: J.Rocc, Kazikiyo, Joymen, Tsugu, Questa, DY + more • OPEN: 12am • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Joule Sushi Records presents Boombox Cartel (Bass/Dubstep/Hip Hop)

Metro Takkyu Ishino Lunatique Tour 2016 in Kyoto (Techno) • DJS: Takkyu Ishino, Kazuma + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Where’s the party? Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest club listings...

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Cinema

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

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

Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: Jason Bourne, Sully, Genius, The Angry Birds Movie, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week, The Red Turtle, Suicide Squad, Star Trek Beyond, Our Kind of Traitor, The Man Who Knew Inﬁnity, Inferno, The Gift, Remember, Bridget Jones s Baby, PK • From Nov 3: Storks • From Nov 4: Sausage Party • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 18: Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train • From Nov 19: Pay the Ghost • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 25: The Childhood of a Leader, The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives Tel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Umeda Burg7 Now showing: Jason Bourne, Sully, Mechanic: Resurrection, Suicide Squad, The Secret Life of Pets, Me Before You, Inferno, Bridget Jones s Baby • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Cine Libre Umeda Now showing: Un homme et une femme (FRA), El Clan (SPA), Seymour: An Introduction, Beatles (NOR), La femme de la Plaque Argentique (FRA), A War, Correspondence, The Iron Giant: Signature Edition, Celestial Wives of the Meadow Mari (RUS), Hyena Road, Hungry Hearts (ITA), Braqueurs (FRA) • From Nov 5: The Final Lesson (FRA), Crazy About Tiffany s, Julieta • From Nov 12: Everybody Wants Some • From Nov 19: Every Thing Will Be Fine, The Call Up, All Gone South • From Nov 26: Born to Be Blue Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st and 15th of the month – ¥1,000

Theatre Umeda Now showing: Der Atmende Gott: Reise zum Ursprung des modernen Yoga (GER), Mandariinid (EST), Corn Island, Se Dio vuole (ITA), The Idol (ESP), The Man Who Knew Inﬁnity, Il capitale umano (ITA) • From Nov 19: Premiers Crus (FRA) • From Nov 26: Francofonia (FRA) Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,000

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: Jason Bourne, The Angry Birds Movie, Sully, Correspondence, Suicide Squad, Star Trek Beyond, Our Kind of Traitor, Jane Got a Gun, Inferno, Remember, Bridget Jones s Baby, PK • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 25: The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives • From Nov 26: Freeheld Tel: 06-6346-3215 • osakastationcitycinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Toho Cinemas Namba Now showing: Jason Bourne, Sully, Genius, The Angry Birds Movie, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week, The Red Turtle, Suicide Squad, Star Trek Beyond, Our Kind of Traitor, The Man Who Knew Inﬁnity, Inferno, The Gift, Remember, Bridget Jones s Baby, PK • From Nov 3: Storks • From Nov 4: Sausage Party • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 18: Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train • From Nov 19: Pay the Ghost • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 25: The Childhood of a Leader, The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater.jp • Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100, every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Namba Parks Cinema Now showing: Jason Bourne, Me Before You, The Angry Birds Movie, Sully, Suicide Squad, Star Trek Beyond, Jane Got a Gun,

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Pay the Ghost, Inferno, Bridget Jones s Baby • From Nov 3: Storks • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 26: Freeheld Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Cinem@rt Now showing: The Damned, Hip Hop-eration, Concussion, Hitting the Apex • From Nov 5: Crazy About Tiffany s • From Nov 19: All Gone South • From Nov 26: 31 Tel: 06-6282-0815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men); Weds (women); 1st and 25th of the month – ¥1,000

Kyoto Cinema Now showing: Asphalte (FRA), La Femme De La Plaque Argentique (BEL), Brooklyn, Un+Une (FRA), Je vous souhaite d'être follement aimée (FRA), Ingrid Bergman: In Her Own Words (SWE), Les Héritiers (FRA), Un homme et une femme (FRA),The Danish Girl • From Nov 5: Crazy About Tiffany s, Her er Harold (NOR) • From Nov 12: La Dernière leçon (FRA), Trumbo • From Nov 19: Hip Hop-Eration, All Gone South, Trash • From Nov 26: La loi du marché (FRA) Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo

Now showing: Jason Bourne, God Willing, The Angry Birds Movie, Sully, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week, The Red Turtle, Suicide Squad, Jane Got a Gun, The Man Who Knew Inﬁnity, Pay the Ghost, Inferno, Bridget Jones s Baby • From Nov 3: Storks • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 26: Freeheld

Now showing: Jason Bourne, Genius, The Angry Birds Movie, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week, The Red Turtle, Suicide Squad, Star Trek Beyond, Our Kind of Traitor, The Man Who Knew Inﬁnity, Inferno, The Gift, Remember, Bridget Jones s Baby, PK • From Nov 3: Storks • From Nov 4: Sausage Party • From Nov 11: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Nov 18: Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train • From Nov 19: Pay the Ghost • From Nov 23: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Nov 25: The Childhood of a Leader, The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives

Tel: 075-254-3215 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st and 20th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Tel: 075-813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Kyoto Movix Kyoto

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Osaka

Food & Drink

/ GREAT PLACES TO EAT

FOODSPOTTING

Treat yourself to some of America s favorite foods in Kobe s stylish neighborhood right oﬀ Tor Road. Text & Images: Judith LaFaver

YIS Tacos

Bo Tambourine

Rib Lab

In recent years, Mexican food has increased in popularity in Japan and foreigners here have been rejoicing. YIS is one of the newer wave of Mexican restaurants to open that appeals to a younger audience and has a more American vibe with its clean concrete walls and self-serve drink cooler. While they have extras like guacamole and chips, the main aﬀair here is the tacos. For their lunch set, you get a choice of two tacos – chicken, beef, veggie, or pork – home fries, salad, and soup for ¥1,000. The veggie tacos come loaded with roasted vegetables and topped with a pico de gallo and guacamole. The pork tacos are savory and cooked to perfection. The chicken tacos are flavorful and topped with a salty, soft, white cheese that pushes this choice from great to OMG. Don t go in expecting Taco Bell. These are classic tacos more like their native cousins in Mexico. No English available.

Bo Tambourine manages to accomplish what so many restaurants have failed at in Japan – making great American classics. The vintage décor and oldies rock ooze an Americana vibe. Staples like bacon cheeseburgers, chili cheese dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, and fried okra are served. All sandwich orders come with a side of crispy shoestring fries and creamy macaroni salad. The BBQ bacon cheeseburger is a juicy patty served on a sesame bun with melted cheddar and crispy, American-style bacon. The pulled pork sandwich is filled with melt-in-yourmouth pork, a tangy coleslaw topping, and a sweet BBQ sauce that will have you envisioning the American South. For a truly American meal, try a milkshake and don t forget to save room for dessert. They oﬀer a ¥500 dessert menu which includes bread pudding, apple pie, and brownies. One drink per person is required. English is available.

Rib Lab makes a strong first impression. Sports playing on TV, a huge picture of a woman dripping BBQ sauce all over herself; it doesn t seem like a place you d find in Japan. While Rib Lab has a variety of excellent options like the Jerk Chicken Salad, Seafood Paella, and Grilled Rib Roast, the most popular items on the menu are the rib offerings. With 11 different sauces to choose from, you can order an individual rib with one sauce or a pound of ribs with a choice of two sauces. The ribs are fat and juicy and with such interesting sauces like the spicy Harissa Mustard, you might want to order that second pound. Make sure to try the Rib Ramen. Reminiscent of Vietnamese pho, the broth is light and flavorful, but the rib is so tender it falls off the bone. There is some English available.

OPEN: Lunch 12pm–11:30pm CLOSED: Tues • Price RANGE: Lunch ¥1,000–¥1,500; Dinner ¥1,000–¥3,000 • ACCESS: Hankyu

OPEN: 12pm–Midnight • CLOSED: Irregular • Price RANGE: ¥1,000–¥2,000 • ACCESS: Hankyu Kobe-Sannomiya, west exit, 6-min walk • bo-tambourine.com

OPEN: 11am–1am • Price RANGE: Lunch ¥1,000–¥2,000; Dinner ¥2,000–¥3,000 • ACCESS: Hankyu Kobe-Sannomiya, west exit, 5-min walk • riblab-kitchen.com

Kobe-Sannomiya Stn, west exit, 5-min walk • tabelog.com/hyogo/A2801/ A280102/28038396

Need more dining options? Check kansaiscene.com to search all of our Foodspotting reviews.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

FEATURE

Hike Into Kumanoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot Spring Haven Seek sky-scraping forests, simmering springs, and spiritual rejuvenation along the ancient Kumano Kodo. Text: Celia Polkinghorne â&#x20AC;˘ Images: Jason Haidar Kansai International Airport

Yoshino

Ominesan Koyasan

Yunomine Onsen

Kumano Hongu Taisha

Takajiri-Oji Chikatsuyu

Kawayu Onsen

Kii-Tanabe

Kumano Hayatama Taisha

Kumano Nachi Taisha Kii-Katsuura

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Feature

nce you ve set foot on a Kumano Kodo trail, you know you ve become privy to a gem. Treading a self-guided path is a truly rewarding way to experience this spiritual region of Japan located in the southern reaches of Wakayama s mountain-clad Kii Peninsula, about 100 km south of Osaka. The Kumano Kodo is a series of ancient pilgrimage routes that snake across Japan s largest peninsula endowed with majestic scenery, remote hot springs, hearty countryside hospitality, and rich pilgrimage traditions. Its paths have been revered for more than a thousand years. The routes revolve around the Kumano Sanzan (the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano): Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. The area is one of only two pilgrimages in the world registered as a UNESCO

World Heritage Site (Spain s Way of St. James is the other), its status granted in 2004. Since prehistoric times, it has been worshiped as a place inhabited by deities and supernatural beings. Its famed pilgrimage routes have a long history of use by people of different classes and faiths including Shintoism, Buddhism, and Shugendo Mountain Asceticism. Nowadays, nature lovers join the devoted along the ancient pilgrim paths, however they remain quite off the map for most visitors to Japan and even to most Japanese people. Even in the peak seasons of autumn and spring, it is possible to hike for a whole day and pass less than ďŹ ve other people on the trail. The setup of Kumano Kodo makes it possible even for the time poor and the exerciseaverse to experience the exquisite beauty and unique

atmosphere of the region and its sacred sites. An itinerary of any amount of days can be arranged, can start and end at many different places, and hiking can be supplemented by bus travel to save time and leg power. For those new to the area and prone to stiff calves after a day s hike, the Nakahechi trail is a good one to start with. Most of this path is very manageable for travelers of average ďŹ tness and who have not done much recent hiking training. It is a good idea, however, to get familiar with the bus schedules in case of an unexpected busted ankle or if one day dusk is approaching and the planned destination is not in sight. For travelers with six days to spare, here is a step-by-step guide to getting a good taste of the Nakahechi trail.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Feature DAY 1 – TAKIJIRI-OJI TO TAKAHARA

DAY 2 – TO CHIKATSUYU/ TSUGIZAKURA

» Distance to cover: ~4 km » Difficulty: Hard because of steep

» Distance to cover: ~14 km/18 km » Difficulty: Easy – no real steep inclines,

inclines

path is clearly marked and easy to follow » Time to Allow: ~6–7 hours

» Time to Allow: ~3 hours

The first-day itinerary allows for travel from a major center, such as Osaka, to JR KiiTanabe Stn and then Takijiri-oji – the village that marks the entrance of the Kumano area. This is a popular starting point for the Nakahechi trail. The Takahara settlement is only a 3–4 km walk from the trailhead in Takijiri, however this short hike from Takijiri to Takahara is no small feat for even an experienced hiker. It will take a couple of hours because of the steepness so it is recommended that you arrive at Takijiri-oji around midday to begin the ascent to Takahara. Prepare for magnificent views when you arrive at Takahara where the mountains appear to be rising out of the mist. It won t take long for you to realize that the tight calves and burning thighs are all going to be worth it! Accommodation Option:

Kirinosato Lodge, Takahara » Email: kiri-takahara@mb.aikis.or.jp » Tel: 0739-641-900 » Twin Room: ¥10,000 per person

(includes dinner & breakfast sumptuous meals made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients) » Web: kirinosato-takahara.com/english. html » Check in: From 3pm • Ofuro (Japanesestyle bath): 11am–8pm

The second day on the Nakahechi trail is a nice, easy one, although very remote – you may not see many other people while walking through the beautiful countryside and even while walking through the tiny settlements along the way. Takijiri-oji to Chikatsuyu-oji is around a 14 km hike, but some hikers may want to walk the extra 4 km to Tsugizakura-oji on Day 2 to make the lengthy Day 3 hike a little shorter. Your decision may be made for you according to what accommodation is available when you make your booking. You will first set your eyes on the Chikatsuyu-oji settlement and the Hiki River as you hike down into the basin from the surrounding mountains. It is truly the quaintest of little villages with only a small grocery store, a post office, and some minshuku (guesthouses). The surrounding mountain and river scenery is absolutely divine.

DAY 3 – TO KUMANO HONGU TAISHA » Distance to cover: ~24 km from

Chikatsuyu-oji/~20 km from Tsugizakuraoji » Difficulty: Moderately hard because of the long distance and lots of going up and down » Time to Allow: ~9–10 hours

Accommodation Option:

This is the longest day of hiking in this itinerary so it s best to have breakfast and leave your minshuku as soon as possible after sunrise to ensure that you make it to Kumano Hongu Taisha before dusk. Between Tsugizakura-oji and Hongu Taisha there are many ups and downs on the trail before finally arriving at the shrine, but the cool, dense forests, mini waterfalls, and picturesque vistas are the perfect distractions. Hongu Taisha is the largest of the three grand shrines of Kumano. The main hall of the shrine, which dates back to the 7th century, is dedicated to the deity of trees. The township of Hongu Taisha is much larger than anything you will have seen on the previous two days of hiking, and there are several options for food and accommodations in this main hub.

Minshuku Chikatsuyu

Accommodation Option:

» Tel: 0739-650-617 » Twin Room: ¥10,300 per person

(All delicious, filling, and wholesome meals included. Be sure to ask for a packed lunch to take with you on your long hike toward Hongu Taisha.) » Tip: Soak your tired legs in the Hisui-noyu onsen right next to the minshuku

Blue Sky Guesthouse » Tel: 0735-420-800 » Email: info@kumano-guesthouse.com » Twin Room: ¥6,000 per person per

night including breakfast (dinner not served) » Web: kumano-guesthouse.com/eng. html » Check in: From 3pm

Getting There From Osaka: Limited Express Kuroshio train from JR Tennoji Stn to JR Kii-Tanabe Stn (~120 mins, ~¥5,000), bus to Takijiri-oji (leaves Kiitanabe Stn from Stop 2, ~40 mins, ~¥930), begin hiking from Takijiri-oji.

BOOKING ACCOMMODATIONS It is usually necessary to book accommodations months prior to a Kumano Kodo hike. Start the reservation process now for a spring 2017 hike – especially if planning to go during Golden Week.

The Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau website hosts the official reservation system of the Tanabe City/ Kumano region, however ample time is needed to book using this method (responses can take time and the website states reservation requests must be made at least 7 days in advance). » Online Booking: tb-

kumano.jp/en/kumanotravel/how-to-book Guesthouses can be contacted directly by phone,

and a few by email, though contact numbers and emails can be hard to find and a Japanese speaker is usually necessary.

TRAVEL TIPS It s a good idea to arrange to have your luggage transferred between your accommodations so you don t have to carry excess baggage while hiking. Most guesthouses will provide the service for around ¥1,500 per person per day.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Print out route maps and bus timetables before you go. Both can be a little tricky to follow so always be sure to clarify information with minshuku staﬀ before you set oﬀ on each day. » Maps: tb-kumano.jp/en/

kumano-kodo/maps » Bus Times: tb-kumano.jp/

en/transport/bus » General Info: tb-kumano.

jp/en

Feature DAY 4 – TO KAWAYU (RIVER ONSEN) THEN YUNOMINE ONSEN

Nachi Taisha

» Distance to walk: 5 km » Difficulty: Easy » Time to Allow: ~2 hours

Hongu Taisha, Kawayu, and Yunomine can be done in any order according to how much time you have to enjoy the area. For ancient pilgrims, Yunomine was used for hot water ablution rites before going to pray at Hongu Taisha, but for time-poor hikers with aching pins, it might be nice to spend a day soaking in hot springs after the long hike to Hongu Taisha. Hongu Taisha to Kawayu is around a 5 km hike, but if your legs are too sore from the 20 plus kilometers you did the day before, there are regular enough busses running between these two towns.

DAY 6 – TO KATSUURA ONSEN

Kawayu is one of the most picturesque places in this region and a stunning place to have basically all to yourself on any given afternoon. Cool oﬀ in the crystalclear waters or soak your aching muscles in hot water by digging your own personal onsen in the very same river! Its simmering springs run parallel with the Oto River so just pick a spot, remove some rocks, grab a shovel and dig, and you ll soon feel the warm water bubbling through. The tiny but delightful village of Yunomine is just a few kilometers away from Kawayu but you will only have time to do one small hike on this day if you want to enjoy the river onsen, so catching a bus to Yunomine in the late afternoon is your best bet. Yunomine onsen is known by some as Japan s spiritual hot spring. It is the home of Tsuboyu, the only UNESCO World Heritage listed onsen, which is said to have strong healing properties. After you ve reserved your 30-min spot at the tiny wooden hut nearby, you can go for your private soaking session in the tiny, rocky pit with scalding water of an almost indescribable pastelturquoise color. After your time is up, there is a 92-degree hot spring where you can sit and boil eggs and vegetables for dinner. Accommodation Option:

Yoshinoya Ryokan » Tel: 0735-420-101 » Twin Room: ~¥6,950 per person (no

meals); ~¥11,100 per person (includes dinner and breakfast) » Check in: From 3pm • Indoor/outdoor onsen: 3pm–9am

Hongu Taisha torii gate

DAY 5 – TO NACHI TAISHA The village of Nachi-katsuura is where the majestic Nachi Taisha (shrine) and Nachino-taki (waterfall) can be found. In this six-day itinerary, there is not enough time to hike all the way to Nachi Taisha (around 55 km from the Hongu Taisha area), but if you have a few extra days (and the extra fitness – it is quite a bit more strenuous) then it is absolutely worth it. Kumano Kodo has a decent transportation network that allows hikers to travel to various points along the route by bus or train, so a bus from Yunomine to Nachi-katsuura is a great option. As well as visiting the truly majestic and breathtaking Nachi shrine and waterfall, don t forget to allow some time to meander down Diamon-zaka , an impressive, 600-meter-long, cobble-stone staircase with cedar trees reaching to the sky on either side. Accommodation Option:

Mitaki Sanso » Twin Room: ~¥9,480 (includes breakfast

and a banquet-style dinner) » Check in: From 3pm

Katsuura Onsen, located on the southeast coast of the Kii Peninsula, is about a 7.5 km hike or a short bus ride from Kumano Nachi Taisha. It is basically a fishing port turned hot spring resort and there are multiple onsen located throughout the village – almost all are in hotels and ryokan. Most of these baths are also available for day use and a full list of onsen and footbaths is available at the JR Kii-Katsuura Station Information Center. It is well worth an overnight stay to top oﬀ a wonderful week in the Kumano region. Nakanoshima Ryokan, on a small island in Katsuura Bay, has a magnificent outdoor rotemburo bath with a bay view. The most noticeable landmark in Katsuura, however, is the Hotel Urashima . It feels like an onsen theme park, not unlike the seemingly endless bathhouse in the anime film Spirited Away, and is located on an islandlike peninsula in Katsuura Bay. There are seven baths dotted throughout the facility (there is a map to help you find them all!) including the main attraction, which is the one in a cave overlooking the Pacific Ocean called Bokido Cave Onsen . The steady crash of wave against rock is the perfect soundtrack for your last luxurious natural-hot-spring soak before transitioning yourself out of the realm of Kumano and back into reality. Accommodation Option:

Hotel Urashima » Tel: 0735-521-011 » Access: Ferry departs the sightseeing

pier in Nachikatsuura Port a few times each hour. (Port is a 10-min walk from JR Kiikatsura Station.) » Cost: Prices vary according to room type and include breakfast » Web: hotelurashima.co.jp/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

FEATURE

A Night Under the Dome On the outskirts of the city center looms Kyocera Dome, home to Kansai s other professional baseball team, the Orix Buffaloes. Baseball fan or not, an evening spent watching a game under the dome with friends or family guarantees a fun night out. KS spent an evening in the bleachers to find out why. Text & images: Kansai Scene

yocera Dome is an all-weather stadium with a distinctive design that resembles something akin to an alien mothership. When not staging live music concerts, it is hosting crowds of cheering Orix Buffaloes fans during the baseball season from the beginning of spring until the beginning of fall. Just a hop and a skip away from the Dome-Mae Chiyozaki subway station on the Nagahori Tsurumiryokuchi line, the dome is conveniently located next to Aeon Mall should you wish to stock up on game-time snacks

and drinks. You can freely take your own food and drink into the stadium, but you may be asked to transfer any alcoholic drinks into plastic containers. There is a wide choice of vendors inside the dome though, offering everything from KFC and Mos Burger to yakisoba and donuts, as well as beer, soft drinks, and spirits. There is even a special ticket that comes with an all-you-candrink beer plan although be prepared to spend most of the game queuing for refills. Admission to the game starts from just ¥1,800 for outfield seats or ¥2,400 for infield

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

seats (closer to the action) with tickets easily purchased online right up to the day of the game or over the counter upon arrival. You can even sit behind one of the dugouts for ¥5,000–¥7,000. The action begins long before the ﬁrst pitch has been released with pre-game performances from marching bands, an AKB48-esque troupe of cheerleaders known as the B s Girls and the Buffaloes cheeky bovine mascots Bull and Bell. Fans are extremely vocal in their support; singing songs, waving ﬂags, and banging plastic cheer bats together at

every opportunity – for the entire duration of the game. There seems to be a song for everything; every innings and pivotal piece of action, and even for every member of the team! It s an amazing, relentless cheerathon (a highlight is a towel-waving dance..!) that can be hard to keep up with. But fear not, there is a handy pocket guide provided on entry explaining all the moves and various chants in case you didn t have time to swot up beforehand. (Any attempt at the dance will go down extremely well with the locals!).

Half way through the seventh inning, the stadium erupts with the piercing sound of thousands of navy-blue rocket balloons being simultaneously released into the air. Be sure to pick up a pack of four (¥300) in advance at the ofﬁcial store and perhaps even a gold set – released at the end if the home team wins. While in the store, you may be tempted to pick up some other souvenirs, either as a memento of your night or to send back home as unique gifts. With everything from the standard team T-shirts, jerseys and caps to outlandish trinkets, iPhone

cases and even golf balls, you will be spoiled for choice. Experiencing a Japanese professional baseball game is a weird, wonderful, and unique experience. Although the baseball season has come to a close for 2016, season tickets are now on sale for the 2017 season, which kicks off next spring. See buffaloes.co.jp for details or to pick up some fan goods from their online store. KS

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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TEACHERS WANTED. Ashiya/ Okamoto school is looking for FT/ Semi FT/ PT English, French native teachers with valid visa. University diploma preferable. ¥250000 for FT. ¥180000 for Semi FT. ¥2700-¥3000 per hour + transportation for PT. Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: ashiyaplus@

/ JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP hotmail.co.jp Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp> [3804-252-2016-11-21]

PART TIME PRIVATE TEACHING JOBS IN ALL KANSAI AREA. Looking for language students? Have you already registered on 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, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Burmese and Arabic Contact: hell-sensei <contact@hello-sensei.com> Website: hello-sensei.com/en/ sensei [3790-1905-2016-11-09] URGENT: PT ENGLISH INSTRUCTOR, IBARAKI CITY, OSAKA. Korea International School. Approx. 16 teaching hrs/ wk (mornings only) + occasional Saturdays. Solo teaching of a beginner-level JHS class and an intermediate-level HS class. Remuneration ￥2500 per class. Commuting expenses paid. Experience and relevant degree preferred. Must enjoy working with teenagers. Contact: John Hoyle <kis2013osaka@gmail. com> Website: www.kis-korea. org/ [3768-204-2016-10-26] PT ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED. Small yet friendly and growing school in Settsu looking for PT native English teachers for kids and adults. Mon-Fri afternoon – evening. Experience preferred but not required. Please send your CV and photo via email to abies_kids@yahoo.co.jp Contact: abies English Room <abies_kids@ yahoo.co.jp> [3771-5832-2016-10-27] P/T NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER IN NARA AREA. English School in Tomio and Kintetsu Koriyama needs a P/T English teacher who s reliable and loves teaching English to all ages. Both schools are just 2 min away from the stations and have nice atmosphere. Tue, Fri PM and Saturday AM. Start ASAP. Please send your CV and photo to pointclearenglish@ gmail.com Contact: PointClear <kityf@hotmail.com> Website: pointclear.eikaiwa-kyoshitsu.com/ [3774-1093-2016-10-29]

PART-TIME ENGLISH TEACHER. 45-minute lessons from 14:40 to 16:10 on Thursdays and 9:10 to 12:40 on Fridays. Qualiﬁcation:CELTA, TESOL etc. Payment:3,000 yen per lesson. Send your resume to Takimoto(Mr.) Kansai International High School (5-minute walk from Tennojistation, Osaka-city) Tel 06-6621-

8108 Email: T_Takimoto@ tg-group.ac.jp Contact: kihs <kihs@tg-group.ac.jp> Website: www.tg-group.ac.jp/kihs/ [3777-9642016-11-02]

Health & Beauty Healthcare

address [ s-techfield@nyc.odn.ne.jp ]

FEELING UNDER THE WEATHER?. Have you been ill for a while? Tried everything but can t seem to get better? Give homeopathy a go! At Homeopathy Osaka we specialize in hard to treat, chronic ailments. 治療のためにハードに特化し、慢性の病気 Contact: Rodger Douglas <rodger72@hotmail. com> Website: www.heilkunst.co

Thomas English Contact: Thomas English

[3769-2010-2016-11-26]

NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED [PART-TIME]. Native English teacher wanted in Osaka city on Thursday and Friday.It is possible to teach from Mon to Friday in next year. The payment is 2500-3000 yen. Long term, Mostly children and elementary students. Please send e-mail with your picture to this

<s-techfield@nyc.odn.ne.jp> Website: thomasenglish.info/ [3780-1024-201611-02]

General FLUENT ENGLISH SPEAKERS NEEDED FOR AN EXPERIMENT. Looking for ﬂuent English speakers to role-play social interactions in robotic lab at Kansai Science City starting Oct 24, for at least 3-hours session. Flexible time, 1000yen/hour with 1000yen travel expenses. Nearest station : Gakken Nara Tomigaoka. Contact : atrexperiment@ gmail.com Contact: ATR <ATRexperiment@gmail.com> Website: www.atr.jp/index_e.html

TSURUMI DENTAL CLINIC. Osaka s ﬁrst dental clinic with an in-house interpreter! Ever had that experience where you ﬁnd a doctor that speaks some English, but all the paperwork is still in Japanese? Eliminate the stress of the language barrier on top of an already stressful dental visit. Visit our homepage for more information. Contact: Tsurumi Dental Clinic <info@tsurumiimplant.com> Website: www. tsurumi-implant.com [3779-64122016-11-02]

[3801-5815-2016-11-19]

CES IS SEEKING LANGUAGE INSTRUCTORS/INTERPRETERS. CES is seeking English and Other language Instructors/ Interpreters for corporate classes (AM and PM) and short intensives in Umeda, Nara, Kobe, Kyoto, Shiga and South Osaka starting immediately. Regular classes are 3-12 months in length. Please email CV and Availability mark@ cesjapan.co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@cesjapan.co.jp> [3662-772017-01-23]

Classes & events Events DECEMBER INDOOR ENGLISH CAMP, SASAYAMA. 3 day, 2 night camp, Dec. 15-17, 40,000 yen + trans Lead own creative workshops, facilitate small & large group activites, share about your country to 3rd yr. JHS girls. 7-8 students per teacher. Interest in New Zealand & homestay prep a plus. Email resume & photo, FAX: 078-854-3804. Email for more info Contact: Francis <hanamizuki.david@gmail.com> [3783-1319-2016-11-11]

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Services VERY AFFORDABLE HOME RENOVATIONS AND REPAIRS.. We offer very affordable reform and renovation services. Very unique style and versatile handyman work. We also can help you seek out and purchase your very own home, plenty of houses available for purchase for well under 50 grand US!! Please contact us via the website for consultations. Contact: taos <taosmeesh@hotmail.com> Website: ecojimahomerescue.com [3781-6464-2016-11-03]

COMMUNITY Announcements CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL. Come on out and play 5-on-5 co-ed ﬂag

Classifieds football. (3 guys, 2 girls during the games) Most teams are have completely Japanese players, but ours is a mix of Japanese and foreigners. It s very safe and a lot of fun!! We practice in Osaka every Sunday at 9:30am. Any age and ability welcome! Contact: kunio <kunio1@gmail. com> Website: www.geocities.jp/ santomanatees2002/ [3803-64782016-11-20]

OSAKA BOOK GROUP'S NOVEMBER MEETING. Ryu Murakami s In The Miso Soup will be discussed at Umeda s Willer Express Cafe on November 27, starting at 3pm. Contact: Masanaka <akanasam@yahoo. co.jp> Website: www.facebook. com/groups/OsakaBookGroup/ [3767-337-2016-11-24]

AFL JAPAN. We play Australian Rules Football (AFL) in Osaka, Japan. We have a men s team made up of 50% Japanese and foreign players. Our players come from the Kansai. We cater for all levels, from experienced players to beginners. Please check our FB page for updates. Contact: Osaka Dingoes <osakadingoes@ hotmail.com> Website: www. osakadingoes.com [3805-6480-2016-

/ JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP NITORI DOUBLE BED PLUS MATTRESS. 15000¥. Pick up only This is a double bed from nittori. In a very good shape. Must go asap. Mattress Size: 197x150x25 Frame size : Bed 200x150x27 + 20x150x91 bed top Link to mattress: https://www.nitori-net. jp/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Prod uctDisplay?catalogId=10001&lang Id=-10&storeId=10001&k Contact: John <Johnisesan@gmail.com> [3782-6465-2016-11-04]

Computers & Tech MAC MINI. Mac Mini Good condition in box with a keyboard and mouse. Mac is a 1.66 core Duo with 1 gig DDR2 ram and running OS 10.6 Asking ¥20,000 Had a problem uploading pictures but pictures available if you ask? Contact: racer162 <racer162@ mac.com> [3534-1262-2016-11-17] MAC MINI. Mac Mini 1.66 core duo with 1 gig DDR2 ram and a 320gig HD. Running OS 10.6 comes with the box and a mouse and keyboard Will load iLife and iWork on the machine. Asking ¥12,000 +shipping Contact: racer162 <racer162@mac.com> [3568-1262-2016-10-31]

LOOKING 50CC SCOOTER. Hi there. I am seeking 50cc scooter. I prefer Honda SuperCub but anything in good condition will be ﬁne. Contact: eric <ericpsandlers@gmail.com>

NIKON SLR COMPLETE SYSTEM 160,000 YEN. For sale is all my Nikon gear. Please contact me via my email address hungbo82@ gmail.com to inquire about items separately or for more INFO 160,000 Yen KATA Bumblebee backpack Nikon D7000 with battery grip Nikon AFD 50mm F1.4 Nikon AFD 60mm MACRO Nikon SB500 Tokina 12 - 24 F4 Tamro Contact: gyakuteneigo <hungbo82@gmail.com> [3791-

[3792-6470-2016-11-11]

5818-2016-11-10]

Home and Kitchen

Other

4 GREAT LIGHTLY USED TENNIS RACKETS.. Head Speed Pro (2015) ¥16000, Head Speed Pro (2014) ¥12000, Babolat AeroPro Drive Roland Garros (2012) ¥10000, Babolat Pure Drive (2011) ¥7000. Grip size is 3 for all rackets. All come strung and in good condition. Will sell all four rackets for ¥40000. All four are great inter/advanced players. Contact: mattkaste <mattkaste@ yahoo.com> [3500-6087-2016-11-26]

DOUBLE BED/FUTONS/QUILTS. Double bed boxspring and matress-Y 5500. Two Futons- Y 3500 for both. 2 quilts-Y 1500. Pick up only. Viewing date from October 22. Contact: Christopher Moore <gophermoore@hotmail. com> [3764-6455-2016-10-25]

OVATION GUITAR W/ HARD CASE. Ovation slim line acoustic/electric guitar with hard shell case. Guitar is in excellent condition. Pictures available on request ( images too large for the site) Asking ¥35,000 Contact: racer162 <racer162@ mac.com> [3419-1262-2016-11-10]

11-23]

For Sale (2nd-hand) Bicycles & Scooters

Language Exch. SPANISH/ JAPANESE/ENGLISH. Hello i can teach Spanish if intertested please contact me Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@gmail.com> [33202381-2016-11-05]

JAPANESE-FRENCH/ENGLISH WITH A JAPANESE VEGAN. I am French vegan would like to correspond with a Japanese vegan who learn or speak a little French and who can to come a day here. 私はビーガンです。フランス人日本人

Contact: Biigan <shogun21us01@ yahoo.com> [3660-6373-2016-11-16]

Friendship LOOKING FOR SMART COOL INT L F TO HANGOUT. Nice sweet funny Jpn-rooted scientist M seeks smart international F to hang around, possibly relationship, soalmate. Loyal & sincere. Long-term faith, commitment. Intelligence, social, love in nature, zoo, med to get along smoothly. Good mind& heart. I won t cheat, or abuse you. Not for mone Contact: nobel benzene <speak6up@yahoo. co.jp> [3231-104-2016-10-29]

blonde. I m working at University and love Japan ! My hobbies are Karaoke & singing with bands: s Contact: shutommy@yandex.com <shutommy@yandex.com> [32566096-2016-11-19]

EDUCATED SMART WOMAN WANTED FOR MATURE DISCRETE RE. Nice Smart funny sweet considerate Asian SM seeks a lady to enjoy life for longterm relationship. Health support, survival tips assured. If she is smart enough to appreciate nature, society, practice frugality, the better ﬁt for both. Won t cheat U, Based on mutual trust, faith, warmhe@rt.respect, Contact: nobel benzene <speak6up@yahoo.co.jp> [3513104-2016-11-14]

CASUAL FRIEND. A guy, 40-something, is looking to get involved in a casual, discreet relationship with a woman. She could be single, involved, or married. It doesn t matter. Age and ethnicity are not issues. I m looking for someone who lives in the city area and who is looking to add some spice to their life. If t Contact: Sammy.57 <Sammy.57@ yahoo.com> [3787-6349-2016-11-06]

HANDSOME AND COOL SJM. Handsome and cool SJM seeks well-educated, interesting, attractive, nonsmoking SWF to share wonderful times and make a good friendship. So let s meet for coffee or lunch to know each other better. If no experience, please just try me. E-mail: healsan@yahoo.com Contact: Healsan <healsan@yahoo.com> [2680-5448-2016-11-13]

M SEEKS M. Hallo, I want to ﬁnd a nice friend . My hobbies are reading , writing, hiking and travelling . Write: redwood2016@ yandex.com Contact: redwood2016 <redwood2016@ yandex.com> [3091-5985-201611-20]

CHARMING & CUTE M SEARCHES LADY. Hi, rock- music loving lady, I m a cheerful fun- loving singer and want a permanent relationship with a tolerant woman. I m cute, not fat , have no beard and my hair is curly and

Looking for something else? Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest ads, or to place your own...

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Getting Around

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

INTRODUCTION

The Kansai area covers the prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Mie, and Shiga. There is so much to explore, so you ll need to prioritize your time wisely. Its main travel hubs are Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, all of which are well connected by high-speed rail networks, including the shinkansen (bullet train). On regular trains, you can travel between Osaka and Kyoto in about 45 mins, and between Kobe and Osaka in about 30 mins. If you are here on holiday, pick up a convenient travel pass, such as the Kansai Thu Pass (surutto.com) or Kansai One Pass (kansaionepass.com), to avoid having to negotiate the ticket machines. Use a website such as HyperDia (hyperdia.com) to check train times and platforms from your smartphone.

Get Kansai Scene Kansai Scene is available from the following major outlets in the Kansai region:

OSAKA Hotels and Guesthouses

Kyoto

Hyogo

Shiga

Hyatt Regency, Nikko Hotel, St. Regis, Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, Ritz Carlton, Hilton Osaka, Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka, InterContinental Hotel Osaka Tourist Information Centers

Osaka

Nara

Mie

Wakayama

Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Osaka), Hankyu Tourist Center Umeda, Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Namba), Kansai Tourist Information Center (KIX), Kansai Tourist Information Center (Shinsaibashi), Nankai Information Center (Namba) Shops

Trains and Subways

Airport Transfers

There is an excellent rail network connecting all corners of Kansai. As well as JR (Japan Rail), there are numerous private railway companies servicing the area, including Keihan (Osaka/Kyoto), Hankyu (Osaka/Kyoto), Nankai (Osaka, Wakayama, Koya), Hanshin (Osaka/Kobe), and Kintetsu (Osaka/Nara/Mie/Nagoya). Each line operates several types of train. For the fastest trains, look for the Limited Express service trains. Be aware that Local trains stop at every station on the line, so only take them if no other type of train stops at your station. Subways operate in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto and are an extremely efficient way to get around the cities.

To/from downtown Osaka, the most convenient option is the Nankai Rapi:t Express service (KIX <> Namba 42mins) or a Limousine Bus. To/from Kyoto, take the JR Airport Express HARUKA service (75 mins).

» Tip: Pick up a Railway Network

map from a major station or Tourist Information Center.

Buses For out-of-the-way locations, or in certain cities such as Kyoto, you may need to take a bus. A travel pass usually includes travel on municipal bus services.

Taxis Fares start from ¥500. The drivers wearing white gloves and official hats tend to be the most courteous, but don t expect English to be widely understood. Have your destination name and address on hand in Japanese.

Kinokuniya Bookstore Umeda, Kinokuniya Honmachi, Tower Records Umeda, Junkudo Namba, Hard Rock Cafe

KYOTO Hotels and Guesthouses

ATMs and Credit Cards If you re using Visa, you will be able to withdraw cash at most bank or convenience-store ATMs. If you re using Mastercard, your best bet for withdrawing money is at 7-Eleven ATMs. Most other ATMs in Kansai do not accept Mastercard. It is not common to make in-store payments using credit or visa-debit cards in Japan, even for expensive purchases. Many shops and restaurants do not oﬀer this service, so be sure to carry plenty of cash with you.

Wi-Fi Getting connected in Kansai can be tricky. Renting a smartphone or SIM card at the airport is the safest option, to connect to the internet over a 3G network. In Osaka, you can access the Osaka Free Wi-Fi service at train and subway stations, stores and facilities throughout the prefecture.

Accidents and Emergencies » Ambulance/Fire service: Tel: 119 » Police: Tel: 110

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Royal Hotel, Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto, Kyoto Nikko Hotel Tourist Information Centers

Kyoto Tourist Information Center, Kansai Tourist Information Center Kyoto, Kyoto International Community House Shops

Junkudo Kyoto, Maruzen & Junkudo Kyoto Main Store, GEAR

KOBE Hotels and Guesthouses

Kobe Bay Sheraton, Kobe Portopia Hotel Tourist Information Centers

Kobe International Community Center, Hyogo International Plaza Shops

Junkudo Nishinomiya, Junkudo Sannomiya, Kinokuniya Kobe

MAPS & INFORMATION / A Post Office

InterContinental Osaka Hotel

Cine Libre Umeda Sky Umeda Building German Consulate Westin 35F Hotel

Maruzen & C Junkudo

Theater Umeda

Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital Yodobashi Camera

Osaka KITA

New Hankyu Club Azul Osaka Hotel Hankyu Umeda Kinokuniya Sta. H&M Hankyu Tourist Center

Club Noon iya

M OWL Osaka Toho Hotel Annex Kinki

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Kitano Hosp. 1

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Umekita Ship

Ogimachi Park

Shin Midosuji

Higa

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Mid

Fukushima

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Kita Shinchi

Dojima

ABC Hall

4 a. St a im sh

Osaka City Public Hall

Tosabori River

Mitsui Garden Hotel

National Museum of Art Science Museum

City Hall Library

APA Hotel

Rihga Nakanoshima Inn Beer Belly

Nii Fine Arts

DIG Beer Bar

Watanabe Fineart Gallery

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kitahama

Caffe Pascucci

Utsubo Park

APA Sōai Hotel High School Honmachi

Hanshin Expressway B

Honmachi

Kitamido

Honmachi Dori

il Bar Central Banco

OSTEC Exibition Hall

Utsubo Tennis Center

Elmers Green Cafe

Sakaisuji Line

Naniwasuji

suj ike ida

TAKAMURA Wine & Coffee Roasters

Midosuji

Edobori

Yotsubashisuji

a Tos

ri Do

Boston Clam Shack

YMCA

Sumitomo Hosp.

bas

Kitahama

Grand Cube Osaka

iwa

Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Rihga Royal Hotel

Museum of Oriental Ceramics

Nan

Kitahama

Keiha

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Bank of Japan

Yodoyabashi

Festival Plaza

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Nakanosh

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Hanshin Expresswa

Higobash

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NTT Data

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Dojima River Forum

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Nishi Tenma

Chuo Odori C Honmachi

St. Regis Hotel Osaka

Hooters Osaka

Hard Rock Cafe Osaka 0 Chuo Line

Starbucks 6

N 200m

Sakaisujihommachi D

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Osaka MINAMI

Shinmachi Life

MoeJoe

Hearton Hotel

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Mizuho Bank Nagahori dori

Nishiohashi

7-ELEVEN

Hotel Via Inn

Cafe Absinthe

Horie Park

Yotsubashi line

2F Tezukayama Gallery Orange Stree t (shopping street)

The Suite

Circus

Big Step

OPA

Cinem @rt

Triangle Park

Apple Store

Balabushka 4F Cross Hotel

Moon Tower

Dotonbori

River

L&L

Nagahoribashi

Shinsaibashi

5F Boy

Ark Hotel

3F GS Travel

Murphy’s 2F

Daimaru Dept. South

Joule

Coolabah

Yamaya

Daimaru Dept.

The Silver Ball Planet

Sun Hall Ghost Ultralounge

Naniw

a-suji

MinamiHorie

Triangle

Banco

Nest Hotel

GAP

Uniqlo

Daimaru Dept. North

Nikko Hotel

EXODUS

Covent Garden

Tokyu Hands

Hearton Hotel

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Kitahorie Hospital

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Midosuji line

The Westside

Louis Vuitton

Toyoko Inn

KitaHorie

bi-grace nail Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Shinsaibashi

Hiday's Texas BBQ

D & Dept.

Namba Shrine

Yotsubashi

Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Kansai Tourist APA Information Center Hotel Don Quijote

Comfort Hotel The Blarney Stone Suomachi-dori B1 (Europe street)

Minami Police Station

HigashiShinsaibashi

Bar Jaai

Vanity

Sakaisuji line

Shinmachi Kita Park

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

Soemon-Cho

Burlesque B1 Pure Osaka Don Quijote B1

Kaneyoshi Ryokan

Mexico Osaka Shochikuza

Dotonbori Hotel

Kokopelli

Namba Hips Tominaga Hospital

a St

amb JR N

Casa Lapichu

AEON MaxValu

BIC Camera

Namba

Motomachi

Absinthe Solaar 8F

Toho Cinemas Namba annex

Toho Cinemas Namba

Visitors Information Center

Hotel Ichiei

Nipponbashi sta.

Sennichimae line

Little Long Beach

Inari 5

Namba Sta.

Junkudo

OCAT

Namba Washington Hotel

Namba

Nam

Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

Dotonbori Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn

Takashimaya Dept. Store

Maruzen

Fraser Residence

Namba Oriental Hotel

Misono Building Singh’s Kitchen Namba Plaza Hotel

MUJI/LOFT Tower Records

NipponBashi

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Nankai Namba Station

McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Naniwa Park

Namba -naka

Namba PARKS

Pub Bar 30 2F

NAMBA PARKS CINEMA

Naniwa Sports Center Naniwa Post Office

Animate Nihonbashi Shop

Toys”R”Us Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba

Jack & Queen

Kuromon Market

Sakaisuji

Namba Hatch

Naniwa Ward Office

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

100m D

Kyoto

MAPS & INFORMATION / A

Club Metro

1 Heian Shrine

Kiya Cho

Aeon Shopping Mall

The Ritz Carlton

Irish Pub Gnome

Nijo-dori

Higashi Oji - dori

Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto

Tozai Subway Line Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

Pig & Whistle Sanjokeihan

Sanjo

Kyoto Asahi Kaikan

Sanjo-dori Movix Kyoto Mina

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Kyoto Tourist Information Center

Kawaramachi Marui

Yamatoji-dori

Gypsy

World

Fuji Daimaru

Keihan Line

Kyoto Bal

OPA

Hankyu Line

Sanjo

Gion s hijo

Kawaramachi-dori

Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

Kawara Machi

Higashiyama

Wakamatsu-dori

Butterfly Kitsune Hotel Vista Kyoto Premio Kyoto Maruzen Junkudo

Jomo Gas

Tourist Information Center

Takashimaya

Hanamikoji-dori

Gear

Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa

Pontocho

Oike-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

Gokomachi-dori

Honno-ji

National Museum of Modern Art

Gastro Pub Tadgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Hotel Okura

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art 2

Miyako Messe

Kyoto City Hall

Okazaki Park

Tsutaya Books

Tatsumi Bridge

Gion

Shijo-dori

Yasaka Jinja

Maruyama Park

Apa Hotel

Minami-za Theatre

Genkoin

Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art

The Gael Irish Pub

Ryoshoin

Kacho-michi

oga wa

Teramachi Area

Riv er

Kaosan Kyoto

Kenninji

Kam

Kyoto Municipal Museum of School History

Bakpak kyoto hostel

Ebisu Shrine

Nawa Clinic

Kodai-ji

KamibentenCho

The world's smallest Ukiyoe museum

N Ninenzaka

Higashiyama Ward Office

0 C

200m D

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

/ MAPS & INFORMATION A

Kitano Museum

Kobe YWCA

Kitanoseiryu Shrine

Hotel Piena Kobe

Shiei Yamate subway line

Sa nn om iya

OS Cinemas Mint Kobe Hotel Tokyu Inn

Tower Records a

miy

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Kiyo-machi

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Cine Libre Kobe Kobe Doll Museum Mitsui Daimaru Sumitomo Dept. Bank

way

Sub

Kobe City Hall

Raja Indian Restaurant

Minato Bank

Nankin-machi

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Hanakuma Park

Kobe Plaza Hotel

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Flo

Kobe Ikuta Junior High School

KRAC

KIITO

Cafe Fish!

Shinko-Cho

Hotel Okura Kobe Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland

Kobe Maritime Museum Jumbo Ferry Terminal

Meriken park 6

Arthur Murray CULMENI Kobe 3F Harborland umie umie MOSAIC OS Cinema Harborland A

N Kobe Cruise Luminous Kobe 2

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental B

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #198 NOVEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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200m D