Kansai Scene #199 December 2016

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

DEC 2016 / ISSUE 199

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Wandering into Winter Shiga’s White Vistas PLUS+

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THE SUITE BRINGS NEW YORK TO OSAKA

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ROMANTIC SPOTS TO WINE AND DINE

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IDEAS FOR QUIRKY CHRISTMAS GIFTS

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

We hope you have a wonderfully merry Christmas, and a happy and joyful New Year.

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 Tom Fay on Mt. Bunagatake.

Shiga Snow Spots

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Escape to the Shiga snowscapes for a sprinkling of the white stuff this winter!

FEATURE Text: Tom Fay

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

Photo: Tom Fay

About Kansai Scene

The season of bright lights and white vistas is upon us! If you re hoping to see snow in Kansai this winter, now is the time to plan a trip or two to Shiga for January or February.

Page 24 is full of ideas and locations within the prefecture to get your fill of snow and winter wonder. Get out and enjoy one of the the many beautiful light-up events happening around the region this month: Osaka Hikari-Renaissance in Osaka, Kobe Luminarie in Hyogo, and White Promenade in Wakayama to name a few. If you re looking for a quaint or classy spot to take that special someone on a date this festive season, pages 21 and 26 have you covered.

New York in Osaka

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Got dreams of a city that never sleeps? The Suite bar and lounge serves up a taste of NYC. PROMO FEATURE Text: Celia Polkinghorne

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.

Foodspotting

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Where to take your date for a romantic Christmas Eve dinner.

FOOD & DRINK Text: Judith LaFaver

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

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FEATURE Text: KS

Stand-out Christmas Gifts

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Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Tired of the same old stocking stuffers at Christmas? Try these three stores for hilarious and unforgettable gift ideas.

FEATURE Text: Tom Speaker

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

DEC

14 Ako Gishi Festival – Celebration of Original 47 Ronin 赤穂義士祭

JR Banshu-Ako stn & Surroundings, Hyogo • Dec 14

Every year on the 14th of December, Ako City hosts a spectacular event to pay tribute to 47 samurai heroes who took revenge for the death of their lord in the Edo period. Visit the hometown of the heroes and witness the magnificent spectacles glorifying them: sword fights and dramatic scenes from the legendary tale are performed by actors on the main street with excellent sound and lighting effects at the Japanese garden in the Ako Castle ruins. The famous kabuki actor, Baijaku Nakamura will parade through the 1km route leading 46 samurai as one this year s highlights. The festival expects 60,000 spectators.

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Banshu-Ako Stn • akokankou.jp

DEC

31

Illuminage Countdown 2016–2017 新年をスマスイで迎えよう！

Suma Aqualife Park Kobe, Hyogo • Dec 31

The aquarium will be at its liveliest all year on this special day!

Celebrate New Year s Eve and welcome 2017 with endearing sea creatures and exciting live performances! At night, the aquarium is given a glittering makeover with 3,000,000 LED lights. More than 4,000 visitors will be expected. Enjoy the live DJ show with a DJ from Kiss FM Kobe in the entrance hall from 11pm–12:15 am.

One of the star attractions of Suma Aqualife Park are the dolphins which will perform in tandem with a vibrant display of projection mapping from 11:15pm–12:20am (¥1,000 for this show). Skillful street performers will entertain spectators at Obento-hiroba from 11:35pm–12:05am. The aquarium is open at 9am, illuminations will be lit up at 4pm.

TIME: 9am–1am • ADMISSION: ¥1,300 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Sumakaihinkoen STN: 5min walk • sumasui.jp/event/2016/11/28123125.html

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / KANSAI TEMPLE MARKETS

DEC

Events

DEC

14 25 © Festival of the Lights in Osaka Executive Committee

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:

Dec 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka • Access: 5-min walk from Shitennojimae Stn, Tanimachi Line

Osaka Hikari-Renaissance 2016

» Toji Market Kyoto:

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

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

Nakanoshima Island, Osaka • Dec 14–25

The whole of Nakanoshima Island will be awash with colorful lights this christmas as part of the annual Osaka Hikari-Renaissance illumination festival. Highlights include a nightly projection mapping event onto the façades of the library and Osaka City Central Public Hall, and a 150m long, LED-lit 'Illumination Street', offering a chance for a romantic stroll under the fairy lights to get you in the holiday mood. Food booths and catering cars will be serving tasty winter treats and special live music and street performances promises to add to the festive ambience.

TIME: 5pm • ADMISSION: Most events free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi Stn • hikari-kyoen.com/ renaissance

DEC

DEC

15 18

On-Matsuri – The Festival おん祭

Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, Nara • Dec 15–18 The On-Matsuri is a festival held at Wakamiya Shrine which stands in the precincts of the Kasuga Taisha, one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Historic pageantry lasts for four days to celebrate the deity of Kasuga-taisha. On the 17th, the grand parade starts at 12 noon and classical performing arts can be seen one after another until late at night.

TIME: depends on each event • ADMISSION: Free• ACCESS: JR / Kintetsu Line Nara Stn bus to Kasuga-taisha Omotesando • kasugataisha.or.jp/onmatsuri/1215_18.htmlat night.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI DEC

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Snowman Festival 2016 Various locations across Umeda • Until Dec 25

The snowmen are here in force again this year, at more than 60 locations across the Umeda shopping district as part of the annual Snowman Festival. Take snaps of your favorites and enter the Snowman Photo Contest, or go on a stamp collecting pilgrimage as part of the Snowman Rally for the chance to win some novelty items. As well as live music performances and edible snowman treats available at participating stores, this year there is the opportunity to get your hands dirty and join a special participatory live painting event by local street art unit WHOLE9 (Dec 11, 12pm, limited to first 100 volunteers). Help them paint a section of temporary wall with their snowman inspired designs and receive a special gift for your efforts. http://umeda-connect.jp/

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Okera Mairi をけら参り

Yasaka-Jinja Shrine, Kyoto • Dec 31

The long-standing tradition of okera mairi , where the locals visit the Yasaka-jinja shrine to receive sacred fire for bringing in the New Year features scores of people walking along the streets spinning a piece of cord, which is burning at one end, through the night.

This is a unique aesthetic scene found only in Kyoto on the night of New Year s Eve. Around 7pm on the 31st, the holy fire is placed on lanterns on the shrine s grounds from the altar. Visitors light their cords with the flame of the lanterns and carry them back home.

This great event draws nearly 300,000 people every year.

TIME: 7pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line Gion-shijo Stn • yasaka-jinja.or.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI Kobe Nankin-Machi, Hyogo • Dec 1–25 Round, red lanterns create an exotic atmosphere in Kobe s China Town where you can savor every morsel of marvelous Chinese cuisine.

TIME: 4pm–10pm•ADMISSION: Free•ACCESS: JR / Hanshin Line Motomachi Stn; 5-min walk • nankinmachi.or.jp/index.html

Christmas Flower Show 2016 光りと花のページェント クリスマスフラ ワーショー2016

© CC, Flickr

Kiseki no Hoshi Botanical Museum, Hyogo • Until Jan 15

Until Dec 25: German Christmas Market at the Umeda Sky Bldg.

Osaka German Christmas Market 2016 ドイツクリスマスマーケット大阪2016

Umeda Sky Building, Osaka • Until Dec 25

TIME: to be announced • ADMISSION: ¥2,300 adults, concessions (to enter) • ACCESS: Subway Osakako Stn Exit 1; 5-min walk • kaiyukan.com/index.html

Swiss Music Box Christmas Concert 2016スイスオルゴールクリスマスコ ンサート

Recreating the magic of a German Christmas Market. There will be a beautiful antique merry-go-round, twinkling huts, mulled wine, a nativity, and much more to enjoy.

TIME: At Noon Monday to Friday, 11am

weekends • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osaka Stn; 10-min walk • skybldg. co.jp/event/xmarkt/2016

Izumi Hall, Osaka • Dec 7 This annual concert offers yuletide songs played by antique music boxes and street organs. Enjoy the crystalline acoustic sounds in this classical music hall. Children under 5 are not permitted.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (¥3,000 at door) • ACCESS: JR Osakajo-koen Stn • izumihall.jp

Yassai Hossai – Firewalking やっさいほっさい

Iwatsuta-Jinja Shrine, Osaka • Dec 14

Santa Claus Diver サンタダイバー

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka • Until Dec 25 Kaiyukan presents a special seasonal event. Santa Claus puts on his wetsuit and scuba gear once a year to dive with a whale shark and making sure to wave to all the eager spectators there to see old Saint Nick!

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Witness this curious religious event that is much loved by the local people. Shouting Yassai Hossai! , performers walk around red hot cinders.

TIME: 7pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Line Ishizugawa Stn; 5-min walk • sakai-tcb.or.jp

Sengoku The Real at Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle Park, Osaka • Open for 56 days between Dec 16 and Mar 12 Universal Studios Japan presents a spectacular entertainment event at Nishino-maru Garden in Osaka Castle Park. Using projection mapping and pyrotechnics, the live performance will feature the great samurai warrior Yukimura Sanada.

TIME: Depend on date. ADMISSION: ¥2,297 / ¥2,760 / ¥3,223 adults, concessions • ACCESS: Subway Tanimachi4-chome STN: 10-min walk • usj.co.jp/universal-cool-japan2017/ osaka-castle

Ramen Expo 2016 ラーメンExpo2016 in 万博公園

Expo70 Commemorative Park, Osaka • Dec 9–11, 16–18 & 23–25 Over 30 top selected noodle restaurants from all over the country will serve their specialties. ¥800 for a bowl of ramen.

TIME: 10am–9pm • Admission:¥250 (to

enter the park) adults, concessions • ACCESS: Osaka Monorail Koenhigashiguchi Stn • 2016.ramen-expo. com

Enjoy the festive season in the botanical garden, gloriously designed in the theme of the universe. Arias and pop music will be performed at the foot of the main Christmas tree Dec 23 to 25.

TIME: 10am • ADMISION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Maiko Stn bus to Awaji Yumebutai • kisekinohoshi.jp

Kobe Luminarie 神戸ルミナリエ

The Former Foreign Settlement and Surroundings, Hyogo • Dec 2–11 A fantastic illumination event: the heart of Kobe will be graced with awe-inspiring Italian lights.

During the event, the street will become a one-way road from Motomachi to Higashi-yuenchi Park. A 100 yen donation is expected.

TIME: 6pm–9:30pm Monday to Thursday, 6pm–10pm on Friday, 5pm–10pm on Saturday, 5pm–9:30pm on Sunday • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR / Hanshin Line Motomachi Stn; 5-min walk • kobe-luminarie.jp

Himeji Castle Night Adventure, Kirameki – Brilliance 姫路城ナイトアドベンチャー 煌

~KIRAMEKI~

Himeji Castle, Hyogo • Dec 2–11

Hyogo Lantern Fair 南京町ランターンフェア

戦国•ザ•リアルat 大坂城

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

See 3D images of Princess Sen and Okiku at Himeji Castle during the evening of this event.

Brilliant 3D projection mapping will depict famous anecdotes about this famed Himeji fortress

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / in several places within the walls of the castle.

TIME: 5:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,200 (Event not suitable for children under 5 yrs) • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn; 20-min walk • himejicastle-kirameki.jp/index.html

Himeji Robo-Challenge 姫路ロボ・チャレンジ第21回

Himeji Science Museum, Hyogo • Dec 10 & 11

This is a large bonfire ceremony where mountain priests walk across a hot red ember patch after the bonfire dies down. Brave visitors can experience this firewalking for themselves!

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Omi Tetsudo Line Tarobogu-mae Stn; 20-min walk • tarobo.sakura.ne.jp/posts/ news7.html

Demon Defying Ceremony 鬼追式

A highly popular bipedal robot contest. These humanoid robots will compete against each other in both timed races and one-onone fights on a demonstration stage. The contests will be on the entry-level on the 10th and on the standard-level on the 11th.

TIME: 10am–4:30pm • AMISSION: Free (usual entrance fee ¥500 adults, concessions) • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn bus to Hoshinokoyakata-mae • city.himeji. lg.jp/atom/robo/robo_challenge

Wakayama White Promenade 白砂のプロムナード

Shirahama Beach, Wakayama • Until Feb 28 A display of winter illuminations.

Artistically designed shining objects brighten up the white sand beach.

TIME: 5pm–10pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Shirahama Stn bus to Shirahama • nanki-shirahama.com

New Year’s Countdown & Starlight Illusion 2017 ニューイヤーズカウントダウン2017

Wakayama Marina City, Wakayama • Dec 31 At this New Year s Eve party, this island resort will entertain visitors with great music, a midnight countdown, and a stunning fireworks display!

TIME: 7pm–12:20am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Wakayama Stn bus to Wakayama Marina City • marinacity.com

Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, Shiga • Dec 31 Fierce oni (demons or ogres) will frighten onlookers until Buddhist monks conquer these evil spirits. This is an annual religious ceremony for a good start to the new year.

TIME: 10:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Otsukyo Stn; 20-min by taxi • hieizan.or.jp

Noh Play “Okina” 翁始式

Be tempted by the sight and smell of beautiful Japanese cuisine.

Traditional Kyoto dishes are on display in this exhibition. There will be a local produce market, a dance performed by maiko (apprentices of geishas) and more.

TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: ¥600 (¥800 at door) adults, concessions • ACCESS: Subway Higashiyama Stn, 8-min walk • miyakomesse.jp/ event/2016/12/111-1.php

Tempozan Gospel Festival 天保山ゴスペルフェスティバル

Tempozan Marketplace, Osaka • Dec 18

Events

Karuta - Japanese Card Game かるた始め式

Yasaka-Jinja Shrine, Kyoto • Jan 3 The traditional Japanese card game of karuta will be performed at Yasaka shrine to celebrate the New Year. Participants wearing kimono in the style of the 8thcentury court ladies try to grab cards faster than their opponents.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line Gion-shijo Stn; 5-min walk • yasaka-jinja.or.jp

20 Selected groups showcase their best performances on the central stage in the Tempozan Marketplace. Watch the special performance by the internationally regarded singer Costie Payne.

TIME: 2pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway Osakako stn; 5-min walk • kaiyukan.com/thv/marketplace/ event/2016/10/gos-fes2016.html

Taga-Taisha Shrine, Shiga • Jan 3 A golden chance to see the Noh play Okina , this program is traditionally performed in hopes of welcoming an auspicious start to the new year.

TIME: 11am •ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Omi Tetsudo Line Tagataisha-mae STN: 10-min walk • tagataisya.or.jp

Kyoto Arashiyama Street Lighting 嵐山花灯路

Sagano and Arashiyama, Kyoto • Dec 9–18 Explore the atmospheric, dimly lit paths of the classical neighborhoods of Sagano and Arashiyama. Temples and shrines will be opened throughout these evenings.

TIME: 5pm–8:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Hankyu Line Arashiyama Stn; 5-min walk • hanatouro.jp/arashiyama

Bonfire Ceremony お火焚き祭

Tarobogu Aga-Jinja Shrine, Shiga • Dec 4

Exhibition of Kyoto Cuisine 第111回京料理展示大会

Miyako Messe, Kyoto • Dec 13 & 14

© Tim Wilkinson

Shiga

Dec 2–11: Kobe Luminarie

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Yuta Toshima, none, 2016

Art

《門世の柵》 昭和43(1968)年 棟方志功記念館蔵

CAF Art Award Selected Group Exhibition Gallery 9.5, Hotel Anteroom Kyoto

Abeno Harukas Art Museum

View the unparalleled works of one of Aomori s most renowned painters and woodblock printmakers. Active during the Showa period, Shiko Munakata created vivid, primal portrayals of natural and religious imagery, interweaving stark black lines over primarily white backgrounds. He endeavored to imitate the works of Vincent Van Gogh, originally inspired by the PostImpressionist painter s Still Life: Vase with Five Flowers. Over years of dedicated practice, Munakata refined an original style rich with personality that earned him numerous international awards. This exhibition, held on the 16th floor of the Abeno Harukas building, traces the path of Munakata s development from his early years of study to the end of his life. Visitors to the gallery are sure to experience a sense of novelty in his pieces that remains evident through modern times.

Shiko Munakata Exhibition • Until Jan 15 • OPEN: Tue-Fri 10am–8pm (Until 6pm Mon, Sat, Sun, Holidays) • CLOSED: Dec 31 & Jan 1 • ADMISSION: ¥1300 • ACCESS: Tennoji & Osaka Abenobashi Stn • TEL: 06-4399-9050 • aham.jp

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CAF Art Award Exhibition • Until Jan 9 • OPEN: 12pm–7pm • CLOSED: Dec 18-20 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Karasuma Subway line, Kujo Stn, 8-min walk • TEL: 075-681-5656 • gendai-art.org/en/index.html

Takehiro Terabayashi –LIFE III– Yoshimi Arts By virtue of the Internet, we ingest much of the information and imagery we see today in a digital and twodimensional manner. Painter Takehiro Terabayashi, however, has a penchant for in-person, three-dimensional visual perception. Terabayashi spends the majority of his production time directly in front of his artistic subjects to capture their characteristics in exquisite detail. His obsession with viewing corporeal objects has given him an eye for hyperrealism in his works that emulates photography.

Terabayashi selects themes and objects that inspire him with a genuine yearning to draw, often focusing on insignificant everyday objects found in ordinary households. In this exhibition Terabayashi remains true to his style, offering new works created since his last solo exhibition that strive to capture the essence of the inanimate.

Takehiro Terabayashi Exhibition • Until Dec 18 • OPEN: 11am–7pm • CLOSED: Tue & Wed • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Higobashi Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 066443-0080 • yoshimiarts.com/en/home.html

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

"Switch" 2016 oil, chalk ground, panel 227×158mm(SM) © Takehiro Terabayashi, courtesy of Yoshimi Arts

Shiko Munakata “I’m Becoming Van Gogh”

The Contemporary Art Foundation (CAF) is a Tokyo-based organization that provides grants and assistance to support the activities of young artists and musicians, and aims to popularize contemporary art by holding exhibitions nationwide. The foundation has also worked since 2014 to manage its CAF Award program, which selects a promising young artist each year and provides them with an opportunity to advance their career. Held at Gallery 9.5 on the first floor of the Hotel Anteroom in Kyoto, program judge Kohei Nawa has selected some 30 works by 16 artists, several of whom received prizes through CAF s award program over the past three years.

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Kyoto

Louvre No. 9 – Manga, The Ninth Art

The Golden Pharaohs and Pyramids

Grand Front Osaka Knowledge Capital •  Until Jan 29

The Museum of Kyoto •  Until Dec 25

The term Bande Dessinée refers to Franco-Belgian comics, an influential creative genre that is now referred to in France as the ninth art. This exhibition, co-organized by the Louvre Museum in Paris, showcases an impressive selection of works by talented manga artists from around the world.

On display are 100 precious items from the National Cairo Museum, renowned for its stunning collection of ancient Egyptian treasures. Included in the exhibition is the iconic Gold Mask of King Amenemope, one of the three great golden masks of this mysterious civilization.

OPEN: 10am–9pm • CLOSED: Dec 31 & Jan 1 • ADMISSION: ¥1800 • ACCESS: Umeda Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 050-5542-8600 • manga-9art.com

OPEN: 10am–6pm (until 7:30 pm Fri) • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1500 • ACCESS: Karasuma Subway Line, Karasuma Oike Stn, 3-min walk • TEL: 075-222-0888 • bunpaku.or.jp

Demythifying Japanese Women Artists

Yukiko Tani Exhibition

Nukaga Gallery •  Until Dec 15

Kyoto International Manga Museum •  Until Jan 31

Discover the diverse and abundant creativity of four pioneering avant-garde female artists from Japan s post-war period. Multimedia pieces by Yuki Katsura, Yayoi Kusama, Atsuko Tanaka, and Yuko Nasaka are on display.

Chotenkai Ballet Manga Tani Yukiko no Sekai was a famous balletthemed manga series published in educational magazines during the 1970s. Though hugely popular, the comic was never published as a book due to a lack of original drawings by the artist. This miniexhibition introduces a small collection of rare surviving works

by Hyogo-born Yukiko Tani.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Sun • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Minamimorimachi Stn, 3-min walk • TEL: 06-6362-1038 • nukaga. co.jp

Chisato Yamano Exhibition Art Court Gallery •  Until Dec 17 Visitors are invited to view Chisato Yamano s latest solo exhibition. This contemporary ceramicist presents fantastical handmade pieces that synthesize worldly and otherworldly themes involving everyday scenes, people, creatures, and memories from dreams.

OPEN: 11am–7pm (until 5pm Sat) • CLOSED: Mon & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Sakuranomiya Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 06-6354-5444 • artcourtgallery.com

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Wed & Dec 28-–Jan 4 • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: Karasuma Oike Stn, 2-min walk • TEL: 075-254-7414 • kyotomm.jp/english

Hyogo The World of Katsuji Matsumoto Takarazuka City Tezuka Osamu Manga Museum •  Until Feb 20 This year marks the 30th anniversary of the death of Katsuji Matsumoto, the prolific shojo manga artist whose works appeared in well-known children s books and girls comics from the 1930s through the 1970s. Witness a showing of works displayed in commemoration of one of Kobe s most remarkable and beloved illustrators.

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Wed & Dec 28–31 • ADMISSION: ¥700 • ACCESS: Takarazuka Stn, 8-min walk • TEL: 079781-2970 • city.takarazuka.hyogo.jp/tezuka

Paintings Go Motion!

– Kitayama Seitaro and Artists in the Taisho Era The Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama Toward the end of the Meiji era, interest in European art movements such as Impressionism, Futurism, and Cubism began spreading through Japan. As some Japanese students of Westernstyle painting went to study abroad, many more young artists acquired knowledge of these exotic art forms domestically through magazines, books, and viewings of exhibitions featuring international masterpieces. During the Taisho era, experimental styles began to appear in new works as local painters incorporated fresh perspectives into their own expressions. These artists struggled to gain exposure, recognition, and funding, but eventually found support from Seitaro Kitayama, a flourishing animator who actively worked to introduce Western art to Japanese audiences. This collection of modern art reveals Japan s Taisho-era enthusiasm for Western creative movements through examination of avant-garde domestic trends influenced by European-inspired techniques.

NONAGASE Banka, Women in the Island, 1916, color on silk, scroll

Osaka

Art

Taisho Era Artists Exhibition • Until Jan 15 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon & Dec 29–Jan 3 • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • ACCESS: JR Wakayama Stn, bus to Kencho-mae stop, 2-min walk • TEL: 073436-8690 • momaw.jp

Art Trip Vol.02 – The State of this World: Thoughts and the Arts Ashiya City Museum of Art & History •  Until Feb 12 Experience this multimedia showing of contemporary 2D, 3D, and moving image works cohesively

unified around the theme of thought , displayed alongside a selection of modern artworks and archaeological items from the museum s permanent collection.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon & New Year’s holidays • ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: Hanshin Ashiya Stn, 15-min walk • TEL: 0797-38-5432 • ashiya-museum.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Kinoco Hotel

Live Music

JAN

Kinoco Hotel is a Japanese, four-piece, group-sounds girl band formed around the charismatic singer-songwriter and organist Marianne Shinonome. Having released their debut album Marianne No Yuutsu (Marianne s Melancholy) in 2010, they ve since been touring and playing at festivals all over Japan. The band is also starting to gain some notoriety further afield, especially in Europe. The group s UK label, Dirty Water Records, describes their live performances as electric and explosive: 60s fuzz guitar, biting punk sound, sophisticated progressive notes, all deep and addictive beats.

Alongside front-woman Marianne is Isabelle Keme Kamogawa on guitar, Fabianne Inawashiro on drums, and bassist Julietta Kirishima – all unique characters with solid musical chops and a sleek and stylish look.

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Japanese group sounds four-piece • Taku Taku, Kyoto • Group Sounds • 7pm • ¥3,300 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Dec / Jan Rock & Pop

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

Metrik

Ovum with Rosetta

Dec 9

Dec 2

English electronic music producer

US instrumental post metal group and Japanese rock band

Circus, Osaka • Drum & Bass • 11pm • ¥2,000/¥2,500 • TEL: 06-6241-3822

Shinsaibashi Conpass, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 066243-1666

Mongol800

The Bennies

Japanese punk rock trio from Okinawa

Shangri-La, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,500/5,000 • TEL: 03-6304-9255

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Punk • 7pm • ¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6357-3666

Rei

Psychedelic ska metal band

Dec 5 (with Alaska Jam – Japanese four-piece rock hip hop band) Pangea, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 06-4708-0061

Dec 7 Kings Cross, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥2,400/¥2,900 • TEL: 090-4288-2759

Swans Dec 8 New York post-rock experimental band formed 1982

Orange Range @ Orix Theater, Osaka

Dec 15

Dec 20

Dec 16

Aldious Dec 16 Japanese all-female heavy metal five-piece Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm • ¥4,300/¥4,800 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Club Quattro, Osaka • Pop rock • 7:30pm • ¥3,800/¥4,300 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Pangea, Osaka • Pop-rock • 7:30pm • ¥3,300 • TEL: 06-4708-0061

Silent Siren

Kemuri

Japanese ska punk band

Dec 16

Japanese band formed by Number Girl guitarist Shutoku Mukai

Japanese singer-guitarist

Dec 17

Deerhoof

Zazen boys

Dec 24 Japanese pop girl band Grand Cube, Osaka • Pop • 6pm • ¥6,480 • TEL: 0570-084-005

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

US experimental rock band

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

13

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

JAN

12

Tycho Tycho is an Amercian ambient-electronic group lead by their primary composer, songwriter, and producer Scott Hansen.

Starting out nearly 15 years ago, the first Tycho album was Past To Prologue (also released as Sunrise Projector). This year saw the release of their latest, and fourth, studio album Epoch. The new album reached the top spot on the US dance/ electronic album charts and was produced and recorded at Hansen s home studio in California. Scott Hansen says of Epoch that it is a return to a multi-layered tapestry that was the driving concept behind all of my work prior to Awake (a previous album).

But this time I was more conscious of keeping things discrete…the result is a deep sonic field.

Tycho visits Japan on the back of a successful US tour before traveling to other parts of Asia and then on to Australia.

Clean Bandit

The Bennies

Jan 5

Dec 5 (Osaka) / Dec 7 (Kobe)

Mixing electronic and dance with classical, Grammy Award-winning group Clean Bandit released its debut album New Eyes in 2014.

The band members all met while studying at Cambridge University in England in 2008 and made their breakthrough with the 2014 single Rather Be which reached number one in the UK rankings and number 10 in the US.

Labeled as Psychedelic Reggae Ska Doom Metal Punk Rock From Hell, the Bennies make their fourth visit to Japan taking in five dates from Tokyo on December 4 and finishing in Nagano with Kobe and Osaka in between. Earlier this year they released the album Wisdom Machine, their third studio album after the 2012 Party! Party! Party! and Rainbows In Space in 2013.

From Melbourne, Australia, they originally formed in 2009 under the name Madonna. The band s current line-up is comprised of lead vocalist/keyboardist Anty Horgan, guitarist/vocalist King Jules Rozenbergs (aka Force Fieldz), vocalist/bassist Craig Selak, and drummer David Bowie Beaumont.

If you like the sound of The Clash, Sublime, Rancid, and Black Sabbath all rolled and mashed in to one then you ll love The Bennies!

Also labeled baroque pop the trio (they were a four-piece until just recently before founding member Neil Amin-Smith left the band) have a new single out called Rockabye, a collaboration with Jamaican hiphop artist Sean Paul and hip-hop dance singer-songwriter Anne Marie. This is Clean Bandit s first release without Amin-Smith and also a taster of what to expect from their upcoming album.

UK electronic-dance-classic trio • Club Quattro, Osaka • Baroque pop • 7pm • ¥7,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

US ambient music composer and musician • Big Cat, Osaka • Ambient • 7:30pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

14

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Psychedelic ska-metal band Dec 5 (with Alaska Jam – Japanese four-piece rock and hip hop band) • Pangea, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 06-4708-0061 Dec 7 • Kings Cross, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥2,400/¥2,900 • TEL: 0904288-2759

Live Music

The Muggles @ Woodstock Café, Ashiya

Jimmy Sakurai Plays Zepp Dec 26

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Catfish & The Bottlemen

Japanese guitarist Led Zeppelin cover band

Jan 10

Chicken George, Kobe • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥4,800 • TEL: 078-332-0146

British indie rock band from Wales

Kinki Kids

Club Quattro, Osaka •Rock • 7:30pm • ¥5,800 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Jan 1-2 Japanese pop male duo Kyocera Dome, Osaka • Pop • 1st-6pn/2nd-5pm • ¥9,500 • TEL: 0180993-700

Kinoco Hotel Jan 6

Izzy Bizu Jan 10 British singer-songwriter Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • R&B • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥6,900/¥7,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Tycho

Japanese group sounds fourpiece

Jan 12

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Group Sounds • 7pm • ¥3,300 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

US ambient music composer and musician

Oblivion Dust

Big Cat, Osaka • Ambient • 7:30pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Jan 8 Japanese grunge influenced rock trio Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥5,940/¥6,480 • TEL: 0570-200-888

David Guetta Jan 9 French DJ and producer Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Dance Pop • 7pm • ¥9,000/¥15,000 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Otoboke Beaver Jan 9 Japanese four piece girl rock group sounds band

Nothing US rock band formed 2010

Jan 12 Live House Gattaca, Kyoto • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • TEL: 050-1225-6613

Jan 13 Pangea, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-4708-0061

Orange Range Jan 15 Japanese hip hop rock five piece from Okinawa Orix Theater, Osaka • Hip hop rock • 5:30pm • ¥5,800 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

INTERVIEW

DEC

16

Deerhoof The band Deerhoof has been together in one form or another since 1994 (then as a drum-and-bass duo of Greg Saunier and Rob Fisk). In 1997, they released the album The Man, The King, The Girl, and this year they put out the new album The Magic. The current band line-up features Greg Saunier (drums, vocals), Satomi Matsuzaki (vocals, bass), John Dieterich (guitar), and Ed Rodríguez (guitar). KS caught up with drummer and founding member Greg Saunier in the lead-up to their Japan visit.

latest album {The Magic}. Looking at the two albums, what has changed musically about the band and what is still the same?

Deerhoof is described online as experimental rock veering between noise pop, punk rock, and avant-garde. Does this hit the mark or would you have a different description of the Deerhoof sound?

We had a big change in 1999 when our guitar player quit, and we replaced him with John Dieterich and later added Ed Rodriguez.

But I wouldn t say that our music changed. I would say we are making a large painting and we keep adding to the painting. It is already a much larger painting than we ever thought it would be, and it just keeps getting bigger. The Man, The King, The Girl came out 20 years ago but it s still there and we re just putting more decorations on it. Every time we add to it, our music doesn t so much change as it gets bigger.

I describe our music all the time. I might say something like, that melody is not loud enough, or we are playing this part too fast, or my drums sound terrible. I might say D major. Those other descriptions are for music journalists or people who design recordstore layouts. Good or bad, I am a musician.

Right now we are on tour with Red Hot Chili Peppers. Playing arenas inspires me to write different kinds of songs than playing basements. Also, we are less embarrassed than before. Every year we propose songs to our bandmates that are farther and farther from what we are already comfortable with.

Next year marks 20 years since the first Deerhoof album {The Man, The King, The Girl}. This year saw the release of your

Locofrank Jan 15 Japanese rock trio

Jazz & Blues Sarah Maeda Band Dec 7

Live House Gattaca, Kyoto • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥3,000/¥3,500 • TEL: 0501225-6613

Japanese Jazz-soul-funk saxophonist

The Muggles

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

Every Fri & Sat Mello ballads, classic rock, and dynamic rock n roll from Osaka based jamming band Woodstock Café, Ashiya • Rock & group Sounds • Admission Free (¥2,000 for 2 drinks + snack) • TEL: 079-734-1044

Kunihoko Sugano Dec 11 Japanese jazz pianist with vocals and trumpet Blue Note, Kyoto • Jazz • TIME: TBA • ¥5,000 • TEL: 0742-27-8230

US experimental rock band • Shangri-La, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 03-6304-9255

Alabama Shakes Dec 15 US Blues rock band Dojima River Forum, Osaka • blues rock • 8pm • ¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Saori Yano Dec 18

Kumi Adachi

Japanese saxophonist special Christmas live

Dec 16

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 7pm/8:30pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Japanese blues fusion guitarist Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Fusion blues • 7:30pm • ¥3,000/¥4,500 • TEL: 075241-0446

Makoto Ozone

Roberto Olzer Trio

One of Japan s leading jazz artists gives a Christmas special show

Dec 16

Sankei Hall Breeze, Osaka • Jazz • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6341-8888

Italian jazz pianist with trio

16

Hyogo Performing Arts Center, Hyogo • Jazz • 7pm • ¥4,000/¥5,000 • TEL: 0798-68-0255

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Dec 21

Club

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Namba Hatch December 24 (SAT)

Dance music live collective A Hundred Birds (aka AHB) is having its annual Christmas orchestra live show at Namba Hatch. In 1997, Osaka s favorite house DJ/producer Yoku founded AHB and they started playing at major music festivals across Japan. Their unique mixture of dance classics, cover tracks, and original tunes soon attracted dance music fans around the world and they released the international debut EP Batonga on Francois Kevorkian s Wave Music label in 2000. Every Christmas Eve, they expand the band to a 30-piece orchestra and perform a once-a-year live orchestra exlusive with guest artists. This year, they celebrate their 20th anniversary and welcome three special guests: the NY house diva Barbara Tucker as a guest vocalist, Robin Lee from UK house/ disco duo Faze Action as a guest bassist, and the Japanese house icon Satoshi Tomiie as a guest DJ. Their past performances have featured MAW, Earth, Wind & Fire, Marvin Gaye, DJ Rolando, and countless other deep house/garage/disco artists tracks so they might play orchestra versions of

December 1 (Thu) Ghost Ultra Lounge

¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

3 (Sat)

Crack (Hip Hop)

Circus

• DJS: Fat Fingaz, Nore, Bullset, Kem + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥2,000/2D; Ladies & Foreigners ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

Classics (House) • DJS: Kaoru Inoue, Ageishi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Exodus

2 (Fri) Circus Wols (Techno) •DJS: Haruka, Takaaki Ito, Loe • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Joule Himlen (Techno/House) • DJS: Christian Smith, Mika Kitten, Nao Okada, Koichi Sato, Dmitri, Yasu#3 + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV:

18

Onosim 1st Anniversary Neo Psychedelic Trance Party (Trance) • LIVE: Spectra Sonics, Vivid Loop • DJS: Daisuke, Fly, Hisa, Show-Hey, Stick, Yuki + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6532-9385 • exodus728.com

DEC

24

AHB

your favorite dance tunes. If you are lucky enough to be in Osaka during the Christmas season, this is the perfect gig for you.

A Hundred Birds Orchestra 20th Anniversary! (House/Garage) • LIVE: A Hundred Birds Orchestra with Barbara Tucker and Robin Lee • DJ: Satoshi Tomiie • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥5,000 (ADV: ¥4,500) • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-4397-0572 • ahbo20th.com

WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Suminoe Peace Space Gathering in Osaka (Trance/ Techno) • DJS: Masa, Ree.K, Altz, Zen, Hide, Saki • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Suminoe • suminoepeace.com

Ghost Ultra Lounge Empire City (Reggae) • LIVE: Ryo The Skywalker • DJS: Bass Master, Yoko-P, Brock Buster + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

Troop Cafe Diatonik (Techno/House) • LIVE: Apanco • DJS: Ogawa, 2Nyan, Fukumura, Mariko, Gold Tights, Masanao, Taiki • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

4 (Sun)

Joule

Circus

Gravity (Bass/Breaks)

Positive Affair presents Bezier (House/Disco)

• DJS: Yuto (2016 DMC World Champion), Part2Style, Xxxsss Tokyo, Habanero Posse, Kireek + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) •

7 (Wed)

• LIVE: Bezier • DJS: Keiburger, Guchi, Norio • OPEN: 6pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

8 (Thu) Metro Deadbeat Japan Tour 2016 (Techno/Bass/Dub) • ACTS: Deadbeat, 1945 aka Kuranaka, Emile, Unagi, 23Q, Toshiyuki Hiramatsu, Tamai-I • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

9 (Fri) Circus Circus presents Metrik (Drum n Bass)

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / • DJS: Metrik, Toyo, 81Blend, Mountain • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Sugar Heaven 2nd Anniversary (House/ EDM) • Felix Leiter, Ryouheeei, Taika, Takahiro, Ryo-Ma, Notorious + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-0799 • club-sugar.com

West Harlem Huge (House) • DJS: Kaito, Gng, Kai, Toshiki, Torei • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 050-1016-0099 • kyotosalsa.com

10 (Sat) Joule Takkyu Ishino Lunatique Tour 2016 (Techno) • DJS: Takkyu Ishino, Monashee, Fumi + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Metro Do it Jazz! x Wonk (Nu Jazz/ Crossover) • LIVE: Wonk, T.A.M.M.I • DJS: Masaki Tamura, Kazuhiro Inoue, Eiki, Naoki Yoda • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Triangle After Skool (Happy Hardcore) • ACTS: Gen, Revenge, B45H, Merupo, Numb’n’dub • OPEN: 4pm–9pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

Troop Cafe Lovers Jak (Dance) • ACTS: Takeshi Kouzuki, Hankyovain, Yuko Nishida • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

11 (Sun)

14 (Wed) Ghost Ultra Lounge Empire City (Reggae) • DJS: Hero from Sky Green, Bass Master, Yoko-P, Brock Buster + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

16 (Fri) Circus Uprise Market 10th Anniversary & Store Moved Party (Hip Hop) • DJS: Muro, Kensei, Koco aka Shimokita, Kazikiyo, Joymen, Tsugu, Questa + more • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Joule Raimei (Trance/Hard Style) • ACTS: Radical Redemtion, Energy Dai, Monogotz aka NMDB, Merupo, Bassfreq + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Metro Jazztronica! Xmas in Kyoto (Nu Jazz/House) • DJS: Ryota Nozaki aka Jazztronik + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

17 (Sat)

• DJS: Steve Bug, Toru Ikemoto + more • OPEN: 5pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

22 (Thu) Move

Circus • DJS: Soichiro Tanaka, Hisashi The Kid • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

18 (Sun)

Neo Memories Last Forever (Hard Dance) • DJS: Yoji Biomehanika, Yuji, Master Azia, O-Man, M.Minami, Hayashi Banginger + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6213-3211 • iflyer.tv/ja/neo

23 (Fri) Metro Night Cruising 10th Anniversary Final (Electronica) • ACTS: Ametsubu, Aus, Cuushe, Intext, Mergrim x Kazuya Matsumoto, Miaou, Omni Sight + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

• DJS: Antal, Hankyovain, Masaki Tamura, Sota, Afr, Torei • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (WF: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 050-1016-0099 • kyotosalsa.com

Circus

Circus Live Osaka (Beat/Hip Hop)

Chaos (Techno)

• ACTS: Nosaj Thing, Lee Bannon, Holodec, Keita Kawakami • OPEN: 8pm–12am • ADMISSION: ¥3,300 (ADV: ¥2,800) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

• DJS: Fumiya Tanaka, Cabanne • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Gypsy Hut (Techno/House)

Empire City (Reggae)

• LIVE: Kenty Gross • DJS: Bass Master, Yoko-P, Brock Buster + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

• DJ: B-Ball • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6809-5895 • clubpiccadilly.com

Circus

Ghost Ultra Lounge

Empire City (Reggae)

• DJS: Timmy Regisford, Hiroki M Piro, Dama, Kinba • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (WF: ¥3,000/1D) • WHERE: Otsu, Shiga • TEL: 077-523-3870 • club-move. com

24 (Sat)

21 (Wed)

Ghost Ultra Lounge

Piccadilly

Antal Japan Tour in Kyoto (House)

Club Snoozer (Dance/Rock)

28 (Wed)

Face presents The Shelter Japan Tour 2016 (Deep House/Garage)

West Harlem

Circus Siine x Steve Bug – Sunday Session (Techno/House)

• DJS: Bass Master, Yoko-P, Brock Buster + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

Club

One Band (All Mix)

29 (Thu) Circus Unsalted (Drum n Bass) • DJS: Tetsuji Tanaka, Toyo, Mountain, Rasty, Keishigomu + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troop Cafe Phc (Techno) • ACTS: Solar, Wata Igarashi, Halptribe + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

30 (Fri) Troop Cafe Count Down Eve – Fumiya Tanaka (Techno) • DJS: Fumiya Tanaka, Masafumi Ohnishi, Soichi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D, Before MIDNIGHT: ¥1,000) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

31 (Sat) Namura Zosen Atochi Circus presents One Nation New Years Eve – Circus Loves Techno Countdown Party – 2016 to 2017!

(Techno) • DJS: Peter Van Hoesen + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,500) • WHERE: Kitakagaya • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

• DJS: Daichi, Raijin, Kazuma, Masato.M, Dsk • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-212-3223 • gypsy-kyoto.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

19

Wh

Cinema

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

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

Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: The Childhood of a Leader, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Sausage Party, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno • From Dec 01: The Woods, Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Miles Ahead, Eye in the Sky, Pete s Dragon 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: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Inferno, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Bridget Jones s Baby • From Dec 16: Rogue One : A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter • From Dec 24: Oasis: Supersonic 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: Everybody Wants Some!!, The Final Lesson (FRA), Crazy About Tiffany s, Julieta, Every Thing Will Be Fine, The Call Up, All Gone South, Born to Be Blue • From Dec 3: Nicky s Family, Max Steel, The Great Museum • From Dec 10: JACO • From Dec 11: Karbala (POL) • From Dec 17: Evolution, En man som heter Ove (SWE) • From Dec 18: Vigilante Diaries • From Dec 23: Knight of Cups • From Dec 24: Sniper: Special Ops, The Lady In The Van • From Dec 25: Kill Your Friends • From Dec 31: Stonewall, Smoke Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st and 15th of the month – ¥1,000

Theatre Umeda Now showing: Il capitale umano (ITA), The Man Who Knew Infinity, Premiers crus (FRA), Francofonia (FRA) • From Dec 3: Louder Than Bombs • From Dec 10: Ants on a Shrimp • From Dec 17: Hitchcock/Truffaut

20

• From Dec 24: The Fencer (FRA) • From Dec 31: Under sandet (GER) Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,000

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: A Bigger Splash, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives, Freeheld, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, PK, Bridget Jones s Baby, Remember, Inferno, Our Kind of Traitor, Storks • From Dec 01: Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One : A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Miles Ahead, Pete s Dragon • From Dec 31: Meru 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: The Childhood of a Leader, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Sausage Party, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno, Nine Lives • From Dec 01: The Woods, Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One : A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Miles Ahead, Eye in the Sky, Pete s Dragon 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: A Bigger Splash, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Freeheld, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Julieta, Storks, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno • From Dec 01: Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter • From Dec 24: Oasis: Supersonic • From Dec 31: Meru Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Florence Foster Jenkins. Comedy biopic about an eccentric New York heiress with aspirations to sing at Carnegie Hall, despite sounding like a strangled cat. From Dec 1.

Cinem@rt Now showing: Crazy About Tiffany s, 31 • From Dec 17: Elstree 1976 • From Dec 31: Smoke Tel: 06-6282-0815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men); Weds (women); 1st and 25th of the month – ¥1,000

Kyoto Movix Kyoto Now showing: A Bigger Splash, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Freeheld, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Storks, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno • From Dec 01: Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Don't Breathe • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter • From Dec 24: Oasis: Supersonic • From Dec 31: Meru Tel: 075-254-3215 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st and 20th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Kyoto Cinema Now showing: Hip Hop-Eration, All Gone South, Trash, La loi du marché (FRA) • From Dec 3: A Walk in the Woods, Omar, Song of Lahore • From Dec 10: Born to Be Blue, Sang Sattawat, Truth • From Dec 17: Nicky s Family, Hitchcock/Truffaut, Janis: Little Girl Blue • From Dec 24: The Fencer (FRA) • From Dec 31: Under sandet (GER) • From Dec 24: La Battaglia Di Algeri (ITA), Song of the Sea, About Time

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo Now showing: The Childhood of a Leader, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Miss You Already, The Girl on the Train, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Sausage Party, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno, The Tale of Tales, Nine Lives • From Dec 01: The Woods, Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Miles Ahead, Eye in the Sky, Pete s Dragon Tel: 075-813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Hyogo OS Cinema Kobe Harborland Now showing: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Storks, Bridget Jones s Baby, Inferno, Star Trek Beyond, Jason Bourne, The Girl on the Train, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Dec 01: Florence Foster Jenkins • From Dec 16: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story • From Dec 23: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Pete s Dragon Tel: 078-360-3788 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st and 16th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

GREAT PLACES TO EAT /

Food & Drink

FOODSPOTTING

Got a Christmas date to impress? Wine and dine them at one of these three romantic restaurants.

Text & Images: Judith LaFaver

Bistrot Café de Paris

Moulin

Chano-ma

No time to take your date on a romantic winter holiday to France? Try Bistro Café de Paris instead, located in the Kobe neighborhood of Kitano. The restaurant offers a variety of sets to suit any budget with no compromise on flavor. An excellent choice is the Bistro Lunch set with the beef bourguignon coated in a red-wine sauce. The beef is so tender it can be cut with a spoon and it comes served with a small side of steamed vegetables. The French bread is warm and soft on the inside with a chewy exterior. It is perfect for soaking up all the delicious excess red-wine sauce from the beef bourguignon. Sets also come with a seasonal soup and salad and a choice of tea or coffee at the end of the meal. To finish off, select from one of their many delectable desserts. The chocolate canele with vanilla-bean ice cream is a staff favorite. English menu and English speaking staff are available.

Moulin is perfect for anyone looking for a more upscale night out. Right on the Dotonburi River, the riverside view is a magical setting for an intimate dinner date. There is a large wine list and a full bar ready to make any drink possible. Moulin serves Italian-influenced dishes and they do not disappoint. The caprese salad is a boring staple in most Italian restaurants, but Moulin s use of deliciously creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a velvety olive oil take it to another level. The roasted beef with root-vegetable pasta is a heartier option – perfect for winter nights.

Crispy lotus root, chewy gobo, sautéed spinach, and succulent beef in a red-wine sauce over rigatoni pasta is a heavenly combo. The yuzu -pepper pork comes with a side of pickled vegetables and a spicy red-pepper paste that makes for a bold flavor combination. Angel food cake is their specialty, but the crème brulee and tiramisu are perfect endings to a divine Italian meal. Some English is available.

Those looking for a fun Christmas date on a budget should go to Chano-ma in Umeda s Chayamachi neighborhood.

While there are your typical tables and chairs to sit on, make sure to ask for a bed table. These huge beds piled with pillows and blankets are perfect for couples who want to snuggle on a cold winter s eve.

Chano-ma serves Japanese comfort food in one of the most comfy restaurants in Osaka. While they have an a la carte menu with tasty items like yuzu -pepperpork donburi, the sets are a great deal.

Try a deli dinner set, which comes with a choice of four different side dishes, miso soup, pickles, and rice. The sautéed ginger pork is especially tender and comes in a savory ginger sauce. For only ¥300 more, add a dessert set to finish.

Some English is on the menu.

OPEN: Lunch 11am–11pm • Price RANGE: ¥1,600–¥10,000 • ACCESS: JR Sannomiya Stn or Hankyu Sannomiya Stn,10-min walk • cafe-de-paris.jp

OPEN: 11am–11pm • Price RANGE: ¥1,000– ¥2000 • ACCESS: Hankyu Umeda Stn, 4-min walk • tabelog.com/en/osaka/A2701/ A270101/27078388

OPEN: 11:30am–11pm • Price RANGE: ¥3,000–¥4,000 • ACCESS: Osaka-Namba Stn, Exit 26-C, 5-min walk • moulin715.com

Need more dining options?

Check kansaiscene.com to search all of our Foodspotting reviews.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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TECH

/ COOL STUFF

Apps for Christmas Christmas apps to provide endless jolly, merry, festive-season fun!

Text: Dave Wingler

Tree decorating, carols, Santa Claus, and piles of presents – what more could anyone want for Christmas? How about some apps to enrich your children s Christmas experience and provide loads of family fun!

A Call from Santa

Merry Christmas Party

»» Cost: Free

»» Cost: $0.99

»» What it does: A Call from Santa is

»» What it does: The Merry Christmas

every child s dream and this iPhone app puts your child in direct contact with Santa Claus himself! Santa rings your child up with a short, encouraging message. On the back end, you ll set up the time Santa will call and what kind of message he has for your little one. Santa can talk about whether they ve been naughty or nice! »» Why it’s great: Nothing is more

exciting for a kid than getting to speak to Santa Claus, and it s a great way to remind them to be on their best behavior during the winter holidays.

You can even extend this to the rest of the year by selecting a voice message where Santa talks about adding them to the naughty list! You can also set it up to acknowledge the good things your child has done throughout the year. »» Platform: iOS / Android

Party app engages the entire family with a fun and educational four-player game for the iPad. Combining trivia, jokes, and Christmas images, this app will add spice to the holiday spirit with some fun, family-friendly competition.

It s also perfect for your kids to play with their friends and even at school parties. »» Why it’s great: The Merry Christmas

Party app has festive music and holds close to 100 Christmas images and questions. It s a great way for small groups to enjoy time together and is an excellent app for a holiday party if you have an iPad laying around. You can even create your own questions directly within the application or go to quizlet.com and do it online. »» Platform: iOS »» Developer: INKids Education LLC »» Website: inkidseducation.com

»» Developer: Net Unlimited »» Website: santaclausapps.com/phone-

call-from-santa-claus

A Charlie Brown Christmas – 50th Anniversary of A Peanuts Classic »» Cost: $5.99 »» What it does: A Charlie Brown

Christmas is an interactive and beautifully animated storybook that holds the original dialog from the 1965 animated TV classic. It comes with remastered illustrations, animations and music that are a joy to look at. You can play Schroeder s piano, sing along, and discover something new on every page. »» Why it’s great: This app is not only

a beautiful present for those who fondly remember the animation as one of their favorite childhood shows, but is also a great way to engage our younger generation with a story that transcends time. Keeping the well-loved elements of the past, as well as making it more attractive for the children of the present, A Charlie Brown Christmas allows you to share the holiday spirit with your loved ones this festive season. »» Platform: iOS/Android »» Developer: Loud Crow Interactive Inc. »» Website: loudcrow.com

David Wingler is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Apple Teacher, and an app developer, having created close to 20 apps for use in K-12 education environments. He is also a teacher at Osaka Kun-ei Jogakuin Junior and Senior High.

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

FEATURE

Shiga’s White Winter Vistas Fancy a fix of the white stuff this winter? Consider the snowy spots of Shiga which are right on our (frozen) doorstep!

Text & images: Tom Fay

Anyone who spends most of their time in Osaka, Kobe, or Kyoto during the cold winter months may be forgiven for thinking that snow is an extremely rare occurrence in the Kansai region. The shallow and relatively balmy Seto Inland Sea has a warming effect which, when combined with the heat of the cities, means that even a covering of early-morning frost can be quite a rare sight in the heart of our urban areas.

However, Kansai does have a wintery side, perhaps not quite on a par with the frozen, blizzard-battered landscapes of Tohoku and Hokkaido, but from mid-December through to mid-March and beyond, some of the more rural and mountainous corners of the region experience significant snowfall. Shiga prefecture is most well known

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for Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater body in Japan, and small touristy places such as Hikone where visitors can marvel at the splendid castle (designated as a national treasure) and lakeside views. But Shiga is also home to some of Kansai s largest and most beautiful mountains, which thanks to the frigid weather systems sweeping down from the Sea of Japan, results in large dumps of snow during the winter months, and this has led to a proliferation of ski resorts around the prefecture.

One of the most popular is Biwako Valley, close to the city of Otsu at the southern end of Lake Biwa. Only 40km from downtown Kyoto, Biwako Valley offers a multitude of slopes, good powder, and superb views, and the conditions are usually best from the beginning of Janu-

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

ary through to late March. To get there, take a train to Shiga Station, from where there is a bus to the ropeway which whisks people right up the mountain and straight onto the slopes.

The Hira Mountains dominate the western shores of Lake Biwa, and there are a number of ski resorts with easy access from Osaka and Kyoto in the area, including the well-known Hakodateyama. Further north and close to the border with Fukui, the Makino Highlands and Kunizaki Snow Park are particularly susceptible to the snow-heavy influence of the Sea of Japan meaning great conditions for skiing and other winter activities.

For those not into hurtling down snowy slopes at breakneck speeds, there are a number of other places to go to get a snow

Feature

Mt. Bunagatake

fix. Looking somewhat like a mini Mont Blanc, Mt. Ibuki is the highest peak in Shiga, a great lump of a mountain halfway up the eastern shore of Lake Biwa. At 1,377m, Ibuki is one of Japan s much lauded hyakumeizan (100 famous mountains) and is a popular destination for hikers throughout the year, the scenic flower meadows and stunning views drawing the crowds (many people drive to the top!) in the summer, whereas the colder months attract winter mountaineering enthusiasts from across Kansai and nearby Nagoya. In fact, in February 1927 the world s highest ever recorded snowfall was reputed to have fallen at the summit, measuring a depth of 11.82m. Unfortunately, due to global warming, snow levels have gradually decreased over the years, and the ski slope on Ibuki s lower flanks finally closed in 2011.

But, for winter hikers, the mountain provides a decent challenge (there is an avalanche risk, particularly at the tail end of the season) and the upper levels are steep and still receive a deep covering of snow, so only those with the correct equip-

Mt. Ryouzen

ment and experience should attempt the three-to-four-hour climb to the summit during the winter. Get there by taking a rapid train to JR Maibara Station and changing to a local train bound for Ogaki. Ride two stops to Omi-Nagaoka, from where you can take a bus to Ibukiyama-tozanguchi and the start of the hike. Also check out Oku-Ibuki ski area which is located to the north of the famous mountain, and is one of the largest resorts in the region, with plenty of slopes for beginners and experts alike.

Just south of Mt. Ibuki is another impressive mountain going by the name of Mt. Ryouzen, and this somewhat less wellknown peak also offers great hiking and a beautiful snowy summit. Lying at the northern end of the Suzuka mountain range, Ryouzen is a mountain for the connoisseurs, as its remote location and slightly difficult access mean that many of its trails remain relatively free of people, especially in the winter. For this reason, anyone attempting it must have all the right equipment, maps/GPS and experience. Most people drive to one of the trailheads by car, but

Bomura

it is possible to go there directly from Samegai Station (although this involves a long walk up a tarmac road), and being a long hike anyway, an early start is imperative.

Another great spot for some winter snow is Mt. Bunagatake on the western side of Lake Biwa. This is a majestic 1,214m mountain, popular throughout the year, with a fairly direct (and steep) approach from the small and snowy hamlet of Bomura, from where it is a four-hour slog to the summit. In the winter, most people descend back down the same way, but there a number of other trails peeling off in all directions, so there are plenty of options for the adventurous. However, once again, this is not a mountain to be taken lightly, as it is a long climb in sometimes meters of deep snow. There are infrequent buses to Bomura from Kyoto s Demachiyanagi Station (Kyoto Bus 10), and even if you don t climb the mountain, a ride on this bus will let you enjoy picturesque views of this sleepy snow valley. KS Tom Fay is the author of Must-See Japan » thomasfay.com/must-see-japan

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Feature PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

A Night in New York Start spreading the news: The Suite is New York suave and the swankiest scene in town.

Text: Celia Polkinghorne • Images: The Suite

The spirit of New York City has sprung to life in Shinsaibashi upstairs at The Suite! If you re not already humming Frank Sinatra s New York, New York while ascending the steps to this sumptuous cocktail lounge, Matt Chadwick will probably be singing it as you walk through the door!

He s an entertainer, you see, as is Brian O Gibney – the establishment s other main man – who you ll find diligently mixing the most tempting of alcoholic concoctions behind the ritzy bar the pair has set up. Delectable drinks, gourmet snacks, and divine decor are the big draws here alongside, of course, the live music – possibly the best bit. With a chandelier-lit stage area, a mini grand piano, and brass instruments adorning the walls, there s a decidedly showbiz feel to it all.

Next to the stage area is a bedlike couch. An unlikely piece of furniture in a bar, yes, but The Suite is actually a lounge designed like a vintage 1920 s hotel suite room. Modeled after some of New York s finest suites, O Gibney sourced the accessories and furnishings from op

26

shops in New Jersey (except for the wall sconces which come from an old movie theater in Melbourne!). Think Art Deco: geometric wallpaper, antique goods, shiny fabrics, and subdued lighting working in unison to create a vision of old-world New York. It s like a scene straight out of The Great Gatsby.

As if all of the above isn t enough to get you through the door – let s talk about the signature cocktail creations.

From the classic to the creative, ¥1,000 can get you your go-to Dirty Martini, or something to try for the first time; a tantalizingly tangy Lemon Drop perhaps (vodka, triple sec, lemon juice), or a sweet and fruity Lychee Martini (açai berry vodka, cranberry, lychee liqueur). If you ve never heard of The Daisy (sparkling wine and cranberry) or The Ghost (sparkling wine and melon liqueur), they re ¥850 well spent. Wine, champagne, sangria, and spirits are available, and non-drinkers will be more than contented with the range of soft drinks, teas, and coffee beverages on offer. Inside, The Suite is pleasantly nonsmoking, however there is a

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

small balcony outside overlooking the bustling Shinsaibashi streets for smokers to retreat to at their leisure.

Featuring live entertainment Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, The Suite is perfect for private parties (wedding after parties, end of year parties, Christmas do s, etc.) events, or a classy night out. While closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, private parties can be booked on those days. The venue can hold 65 to 70 people and can seat 45. The Suite also hosts daytime parties and can customize plans to suit your food, beverage, and entertainment wishes.

So, on your next night out, swing into The Suite and let it sweep you off your feet with dreams of the city that never sleeps.

The Suite » » » »

Open: Wed–Sun, 7pm–1am Closed: Mon & Tue Tel: 06-6282-7742 Access: Yotsubashi Subway Stn,

Exit 5, 3-min walk; » Shinsaibashi Subway Stn, Exit 7,

5-min walk » Website: thesuitejapan.com

Readers’ Choice

AWARDS

2016 Vote for your favorite things to do, places to eat, and spaces to play in our inaugural Readers’ Choice Awards.  Vote now! kansaiscene.com/ReadersAwards 28

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene Readers’ Choice Awards STAGE ONE: NOMINATE (NOV 14–30) Nominations have now been cast and your top choices shortlisted for each category.

STAGE TWO: VOTE (DEC 01–14) Even if you didn t nominate anywhere, you can still vote! Simpy head to kansaiscene.com/ReadersAwards and choose your favorites from the shortlist. You can complete the form just once and vote for just one place per category*.

Voting will be open until Dec 14 (midnight) and the winners announced in the January issue. So hurry and cast your votes now!

Winners in each category will be awarded a special Kansai Scene Readers’ Choice Awards Winner sticker to display proudly in their place of business.

Business owner? Use social media to encourage your customers to vote for you! Download our handy social media graphics to help drum up support (kansaiscene.com/downloads).

*You will need to create an account (email and username) if you do not already have one.

The Categories BARS, PUBS & ENTERTAINMENT • Best Bar Hands-down, the best place to pull up a stool in Kansai.

• Best Craft Beer Bar Who serves up the best brews?

• Best Irish Pub Where to really feel the Craic?

• Best Sports Bar Where do you go to throw some darts, shoot some pool, or just watch the game?

• Best Whiskey/Bourbon Bar Best place to enjoy a finger of your favorite single malt?

• Best Sake Bar The mecca for sake lovers?

• Best Cocktails Who mixes the best drinks in Kansai?

• Best Standing Bar Where s your favorite tachinomi in Kansai?

• Best LGBT Bar Best gay bar in town?

• Best Alternative Bar Quirky hole-in-the-wall, whacky theme bar, S&M – anything goes.

• Best Karaoke Spot Where is the best place to belt out a few alcohol-fuelled karaoke classics?

• Best Club Where s the party?

• Best ‘Nice Night Out’ Where to go when you re all dressed up and in the mood for cocktails and conversation?

• Best Live Music Venue?

The best place to see your favorite bands?

• Best Theater or Live Comedy

Even if it s all nihongo, where s the best place to experience Japanese live shows?

RESTAURANTS & DINING • Best Brunch Where do you head for the ultimate late-morning breakfast?

• Best Independent Coffee Shop

Forget the big chains, who serves the finest cup of joe in town?

• Best Cafe The best place to kick back and enjoy a drink and a snack.

• Best Burgers The competition is fierce, but who is the real burger king?

• Best Mexican Food Where can you get the best burritos and nachos in town?

• Best Thai Food Who does Thai cuisine best in Kansai?

• Best Indian Food Who has the best masalas this side of Mumbai?

• Best Art Gallery Which gallery space consistently inspires?

• Best Italian Food Where is your go-to Italian restaurant?

• Best Museum If you only go to one museum in Kansai?

• Best French Cuisine Casual bistro or romantic date spot? Where can you get the best French cuisine in Kansai?

• Best Record Store The best place for vinyl?

• Best Chinese Food Spicy noodles, delicious dumplings, and crispy duck – where do you get your fix?

• Best Vegetarian/Vegan Food

Where to go for some healthy whole food?

• Best Seafood Clams, oysters and crabs – who does seafood best?

• Best Ramen Who deserves the title of best ramen in Kansai?

• Best Yakiniku Your favorite Korean-style BBQ? • Best Sushi Where is the best sushi to be found?

SHOPS & SERVICES • Best Backpackers’ Hostel Best digs on a budget?

• Best Hotel The finest rooms in town?

• Best Anime/Manga Store Where can you find otaku heaven?

• Best Vintage Clothing Store Your favorite vintage-fashion haven?

• Best Tattoo Parlor If you are going to get inked?

• Best Hair Salon Where to go for the ultimate trim.

• Best Bakery Who bakes the tastiest treats in Kansai?

• Best Imported Groceries Store

Where do you head to for a fix of tastes of back home?

• Best Dental Clinic Who do you trust your teeth to?

• Best Medical Clinic Which doc do you call when you re feeling under the weather?

• Best Travel Agency Who do you turn to for teeing up your travel plans?

• Best Love Hotel The best place for a rest ?

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Feature

All I want for Christmas is… something weird.

Stand out from the stocking stuffers this Christmas with unique, only-in-Japan gifts.

Text & images: Tom Speaker

I

t s not uncommon, in the hours before Christmas, to Google helplessly for lists like 90 cool holiday gifts you can get in Japan, only to find that the items listed can only be purchased on Amazon Korea. With a defeated sigh, you walk into a department store looking for a quick solution. As you hand the cashier ¥10,000 for five boxes of kamome no tamago ( seagull eggs ) you try to reassure yourself, It s the thought that counts, right?

No. Christmas is no time for token generosity. It s a time to put careful thought into what you buy your coworkers, friends, and family members.

Here are three Osaka stores that will make your gifts stand out from the flock of seagull eggs.

Asobiya - Japanese Goods and Giraffe Shop A mecca for those who love Earth s tallest creature or need a way to compensate for being short-necked – it s probably (hopefully) the only shop in the world dedicated to giraffes. Filled with giraffe trinkets, bracelets, earrings, a giant ¥200,000 painting of a giraffe, a giant stuffed giraffe, and everything giraffe-related except actual giraffes, (though

30

they probably wouldn t mind if you rode in on one), even if your relatives don t appreciate the gift, you ll at least get points for effort and creativity. » Access: Tanimachi Subway Line,

Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 3-min walk » asobiyaweb.nomaki.jp/aboutShop.

html

Koo Psychedelic Trippers For the smoker in your family, and those who take pride in wearing obnoxious T-shirts, the amiable owner of this Amemura store in Shinsaibashi will gladly chat you up or invite you to Burning Man. There are plenty of pins, stickers, pipes, black lights, tie-dye clothing, and even a T-shirt of Mario smoking tobacco. It s not unlike an American head shop, only here you don t need any ID. Don t you wish you knew about a place like this in high school? » Access: Midosuji Subway Line,

Shinsaibashi Stn, Exit 7, 5-min walk » psychekoo.thebase.in/about

Tenten Possibly no store in Osaka blends kawaii and kowai (cute and scary) respectively as naturally as Tenten. Lovers of My Little Pony, Care Bear, and Barbie will be at home here as will

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

lovers of images of such precious characters with blood gushing out their mouths as they terrorize a bunny population. The store, a collection of kawaiikowai clothes, has its many toys and trinkets and is divided by maker, featuring work from over 80 mostly Osakan designers. It s easy to dismiss Tenten as cloying or even typical, but it s so unsparing in its vision of a world where everything is either precious or bloodthirsty that it s sure to start anyone s inner goth rejoicing; it s like Hot Topic for otaku (nerds) – who are possessed. It s even less easy to dismiss the gall of a person who would walk down the street with a blue sweatshirt featuring a girl s head floating through outer space while she vomits an entire greenhouse of tulips, and that goes double for someone who would wear a My Little Pony jacket. Owner Chiaki Nakano says, At our store, some items are cute. Some items are scary. But all of our creators are cute. » Access: Tanimachi Subway Line,

Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 3-min walk » ameblo.jp/meruheso/

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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. For more information or to make an appointment visit our website: www.heilkunst.co Contact: Rodger Douglas <rodger72@ hotmail.com> Website: www. heilkunst.co [3769-2010-2016-11-26]

Entertainment MALE AND FEMALE BARTENDERS WANTED. No Name Cafe, Namba is looking for both male and female bartenders. No experience required. English - conversational (non-native is ok). Japanese - basic ¥1000/hr. Hours: 17:00~23:00 (but possible work 2-3 hours at the day). Transportation - OK ENG: unforeseenfestival@gmail. com JAP: 06-6646-0228 (2-8pm) Contact: unforeseenfestival <unforeseenfestival@gmail.com> Website: www.no-name-cafe.com [3833-6500-2016-12-15]

Health & Beauty Healthcare LOOKING FOR AN ALTERNATIVE?. Is your child hyperactive?

Has your child concentration

Comm. Services 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 [3805-6480-2016-11-23]

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> [3231-104-2016-12-01]

SEEKING A LADY FOR AN ART MODEL. Hi, I m a man 39 , drawing lcroquis of live models .

Seeking a woman (over 19yo) for an live model foe drawing. No experience needed. No photography taken. I prepare some transport fee. Please mail me anytime, with your age and height(if you know) .

Contact: brabbits <brownrabbits@ hotmail.com> [3821-5897-2016-

General 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> [3662-77-2017-01-23]

Classifieds

12-06]

COMMUNITY Language Exch.

SPANISH/ JAPANESE/ENGLISH. Hello i can teach Spanish if intertested please contact me Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@gmail. com> [3320-2381-2016-12-09] FREE ENGLISH PRACTICE WITH A SEMIPRO POOL PLAYER. Hi, I am a traveler and semi-professional pool (Billiards) player (31 years old, Male). I will teach Billiards/ English FREE! I will be in Japan only for a few more weeks. If you want to hang out and learn how to play Billiards and speak English for free, please contact me.

Contact: blurry <biriyado.baka@ gmail.com> [3837-6505-2016-12-16] 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> [3660-6373-2016-12-16]

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> [2680-5448-2016-12-13] 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> [3091-5985-2016-12-20]

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 blonde. I m working at University and love Japan ! My hobbies are Karaoke & singing with bands: s Contact: shutommy@yandex.com <shutommy@yandex.com> [32566096-2016-12-19]

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

31

JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP / SUFFOCATING!!. Any real people out there who TALK!? Nothing amorous, pls! Contact: Liana Matiazza <of_beyond@ezweb.ne.jp> [3816-6489-2016-12-04]

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> [3513-104-2016-12-14]

TRAVELLING ALONE TO OSAKA FOR A WEEK IN DEC!. Hi, I m Sam & I m a 20 year old female. I am going to Osaka for week by myself Dec 11-18th. I plan to do a lot of exploring on my own, but I would really like someone to show me around. Someone who knows the area would be awesome! It s my first out-of-country trip by myself, so I m wary! Contact: samseohwang <Samatkins366@gmail. com> [3827-6491-2016-12-07] FUN LADY FRIEND. I m an Australian man, handsome, sporty, fashionable, gentleman, 45. I hope to meet an interesting lady friend for freindship and fun. I don t care if you re married or your age.

Let s just try to meet up and have fun sometimes.日本語もできるし、返 事はに保護でもいいで。Contact: Jon Robinson <jentlemanjp@yahoo. co.jp> [3832-6495-2016-12-12]

Announcements OSAKA MINAMI DIVERSITY FESTIVAL. Osaka Minami Diversity Festival and Parade hopes to bring together diverse communities throughout the Osaka/Kansai re-

gion to build multicultural unity and support. The festival will take place from noon on Sunday, November 20th at Minatomachi River Place. See webpage for further details. Contact: jennayne <jennayne@gmail.com> Website: diversityfes.com/ [3836-6504-201612-16]

2017 ANNUAL KCA POLAR BEAR SWIM. Come out and join us for our annual splash to bring in 2017. Each year people from all over the world join us to jump in the sea for a fresh, revitalizing start to the New Year. Lifeguards are on-hand to keep us safe and sound. Bring a towel, & something warm to wear & take the plunge with Contact: enerugi <makeithappen_eh@hotmail. com> [3835-6503-2016-12-15] WRITE FOR RIGHTS AT THE BLARNEY STONE UMEDA. Celebrate Human Rights Day by joining our letter writing Write for Rights event at the Blarney Stone in Umeda from 4 pm on Sunday 11 December. Join Amnesty International members and add your voice to a growing movement for justice and human rights! Feel free to come just for information or fun. Contact: AIJ4KELG <peacetrain95@yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.the-blarney-stone. com/umeda/index.php [3838-65072016-12-16]

CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL. Come on out and play 5-on-5 co-ed flag 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/ [3803-6478-2016-12-21]

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]

Other FREE MODEL/LINGERIE PHOTO SHOOTS.. I am a photography student, I am practicing figure/ lingerie catalogue modelling at the moment. I will photo you for free for the experience, but you have to provide your own clothes.

Please message me with your location (kyoto/osaka only), age, and time available. Contact: UJSchell <ujidoge@gmail.com> [3841-65132016-12-19]

For Sale (2nd-hand) Bicycles & Scooters 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> [3792-64702016-12-11]

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>

Classifieds Home & Kitchen 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> [3500-6087-2016-12-26]

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> [3534-1262-2016-12-17] 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> [3419-1262-2016-12-10] 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> [3568-12622016-11-30]

[3501-6087-2016-12-26]

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #199 DECEMBER 2016 / kansaiscene.com

33

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.

34

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 #199 DECEMBER 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

1

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Theater Umeda

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Osaka MINAMI

B

Shinmachi Life

MoeJoe

Hearton Hotel

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Mizuho Bank Nagahori dori

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7-ELEVEN

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2

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Apple Store

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Moonshine

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Triangle Park

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GAP

Uniqlo

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Nikko Hotel

EXODUS

Covent Garden

Tokyu Hands

1

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Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Kitahorie Hospital

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Midosuji line

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D

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Shinsaibashi

2

3

bi-grace nail Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Toyoko Inn

KitaHorie

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Namba Shrine

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Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Balabushka 4F

Mustang

Cross 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)

A

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

3

Soemon-Cho

Burlesque B1 Pure Osaka Don Quijote B1

Kaneyoshi Ryokan

Mexico Osaka Shochikuza

Dotonbori Hotel

Kokopelli

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Casa Lapichu

AEON MaxValu

BIC Camera

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Motomachi

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Sennichimae line

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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

5

Nankai Namba Station

McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Naniwa Park

Namba -naka

6

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

A

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Kuromon Market

Sakaisuji

Namba Hatch

B

Naniwa Ward Office

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Kyoto

MAPS & INFORMATION / A

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Club Metro

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Tozai Subway Line Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

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Kyoto Asahi Kaikan

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Maruyama Park

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Minami-za Theatre

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