Kansai Scene #200 January 2017

And the Winners Are… Your Favorite Places in Kansai Revealed PLUS+

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JANUARY EVENTS AND FESTIVALS GUIDE

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APPS TO HELP SATIATE YOUR EPICUREAN APPETITE

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FANTASTIC PLUM BLOSSOMS IN WAKAYAMA

INSIDE THIS ISSUE About Kansai Scene 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........................................................Saiko Fujiwara

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

Welcome to the 200th issue of Kansai Scene! This issue we share the results of the inaugural KS Readers Choice Awards, to be held annually at the end of each year, where residents of and tourists to the Kansai region vote on their favorite shops, cafes, restaurants, clubs, and more. For this first round of awards, the votes have been cast and counted! Winners can be found on pages 22–25, so pick a few things from the list, get inspired, and go out and experience the best of Kansai this year!

This month on the events and festivals schedule, we have a brand-new event taking place for the first time in Nara – the Otateyama Festival where towering Buddhist gods will be paraded around the historic Heijokyo Palace Site. At the end of the month, don t miss the spectacular Shio no Misaki Boro no Shiba fire festival in Wakayama. On page 27, we bring you a taste of spring with recommendations for where to catch the first of the spring plum blossoms in 2017. We hope you had a fun and frivolous festive season and we wish you a happy year of the rooster!

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

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

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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.

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

ON THE COVER: Find out the winners of the inaugural KS Readers’ Choice Awards on page 22!

Readers’ Choice Awards A shout out to Kansai s best cafes, bars, shops, restaurants, and more – as voted by you!

FEATURE Text: KS

Apps For Discovering the Best Eats of the City Food and navigation apps for when you re spoilt for choice or don t know where to look.

TECH Text: Dave Wingler

Celebrate Spring in a Sea of Plum Blossoms

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Shake off winter with the first blossoms of spring in Tanabe, Wakayama.

FEATURE Text: Alena Eckelmann

 Kansai Scene Classifieds

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Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Looking for a job, an old sofa or new friends? » kansaiscene.com/classifieds

Connect with Kansai Scene…

Facebook kansaiscene

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@kansaiscene

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Meetup Kansai-Scene

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

JAN

28

Honshu Fire Festival 本州最南端の火祭り ( 望楼の芝焼き)

Shio no Misaki Boro no Shiba, Wakayama • Jan 28

Originally started as a slash-and-burn operation, this fire festival now heralds the approaching spring in Wakayama, and has become quite popular with tourists who travel to see it every year. Witness the dramatic moment as flaming arrows ignite the grasslands of Boro at 5:30pm. Watch as the fire spreads rapidly across the six hectares of open area facing the Pacific Ocean, engulfing the fields and lighting up the surrounding area. The fact that onlookers can stand by the burning fields and be so close to the action makes this event quite unique. Many stalls will be open around 1pm and a variety of dances will be performed, followed by a mochi (rice cake) making ritual at 4:30pm.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kushimoto Stn, bus to Shionomisaki • kankou-kushimoto.jp/event/himaturi.html

JAN

10

Hoe-Kago Gyoretsu Parade 宝恵かご行列

Ebisubashi-Suji and Surroundings, Osaka • Jan 10

The streets of Minami (south Osaka) come alive as brightly decorated palanquins called hoe-kago parade to Imamiya Ebisu Shrine.

Join in on the fun as national celebrities, gorgeous geisha and puppets from the bunraku theater inside the hoe-kago make their way through the streets to the continuous cheers from the crowd.

The parade starts at Soemon-cho and travels along Dotonbori, Ebisubashi, Sennichimae-suji, and Takashimaya on its way to the shrine. With bearers shouting loudly in order to fire up the crowd and women in festive kimono applauding and encouraging the spectacle, the streets truly take on exciting, festive atmosphere that rivals any festival in Japan.

TIME: 10am (subject to change if necessary) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Namba Stn • ebisubashi.or.jp/feature55.html

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Events

JAN

14 KANSAI TEMPLE MARKETS 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:

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

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

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

JAN

JAN

25 29 >

Oni Hashiri – Ogres with Flaming Torches 陀々堂 鬼はしり

Nenbutsu Temple, Nara • Jan 14

Three fierce oni (ogres) in a dark temple hall scare away evil spirits with the help of large flaming torches. Loud sounds fill the air as drums, a trumpet shell, and loud bells arouse the spirit of the oni. As they build up the sound, the oni wave their massive 60kg torches and stare down the evil spirits that would try to disrupt the good tidings of the new year.

This ceremony has been performed annually for over 530 years, and is considered a national cultural event of historic importance. Other religious events take place from 1pm on the the temple grounds leading up to this fascinating religious ritual.

TIME: Oni Hashiri 9pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Yamato-Futami Stn, 10-min taxi ride • city.gojo. lg.jp/www/contents/1143010218687

Otateyama Festival 大立山まつり

Heijokyo Palace Site, Nara • Jan 25–29

This newly established festival features four colorful (floats) featuring tateyama – giant (7m tall) images of Buddhist gods – representing Nara s hopes and wishes for good health and prosperity for all in the new year. The colorful floats will be paraded around the historic palace grounds and a rainmaking dance and a lion dance, both unique to Nara will be performed daily.

TIME: 6pm–8pm Jan 25 & 26; 1pm–8pm Jan 27, 28 & 29 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Nara Stn; Kintetsu Yamato Saidaiji Stn, free bus to venue • ootateyama.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI JAN

© Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

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Toka Ebisu Festival 十日戎

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, Osaka • Jan 9–11

The Toka Ebisu festival is held all around Kansai but no place does it bigger and better than Imamiya Ebisu Shrine. Every year, over one million people make the pilgrimage from all over Kansai and beyond to Imamiya Ebisu Shrine to pray for success in business to Ebisu, the patron god of business and fisheries. Those hoping for his blessing in the new year buy lucky bamboo branches adorned with various lucky items such as special coins, sea bream, and rice bales all decorated by lovely miko (shrine maidens) dressed in white kimono with ornate golden headdresses. The threeday ceremony starts on the 9th with the Eve of Ebisu and the main parade takes place on the 10th.

Doyadoya, Buddhist Ritual どやどや 修正会結願法要

Shitennoji Temple, Osaka • Jan 14

Crowds of young men wearing only loincloth and shoes scramble to grab paper talismans which are cast from the ceiling of Rokujido hall. The name of Doyadoya came from the Japanese expression meaning hundreds of people loudly bursting into a place.

TIME: 2:30pm–3:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway Stn, 5-min walk • shitennoji.or.jp

TIME: 9am–9pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Ebisu-cho Subway Stn; Nankai Line, Imamiya Ebisu Stn, 5-min walk • imamiyaebisu.jp

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Events Osaka Penguin Parade

TIME: 11am–6pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Osaka Stn • manga-9art.com

ペンギンパレード

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka • Jan 1–3 & 7–9 Plumpy king penguins waddle in a procession in the forecourt of the aquarium twice a day.

Take the opportunity to get close to live penguins and take in the fantastic illuminations in the evenings.

Wakayama Sennin-Buro Hot Spring 仙人風呂

Kawayu Onsen, Wakayama • Until Feb 28

TIME: 1:45pm & 3:45pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Osakako Subway Stn, 5-min walk • kaiyukan.com

A natural outdoor hot-spring is open for free. A giant open-air bath is created on the banks of the Ohtou River. It will be lit up with lanterns on Saturdays.

Okukawachi Iluminage – Flower Garden Light Show

TIME: 6:30am–10pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Shingu Stn, bus to Kawayu Onsen • hongu.jp/onsen/ kawayu/senninburo

奥河内イルミナージュ

Osaka Prefectural Flower Garden, Osaka • Until March 5 Enjoy an evening at the popular light show at the flower garden in Kawachinagano, previously held last year at Tennoji Zoo. Cute and quirky animal-shaped illuminations light up the huge flower garden.

TIME: 5:30pm–9:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 adults, concessions • ACCESS: Nankai or Kintetsu Line, Kawachinagano Stn, bus to Okukawachi Kuromaronosato, 10-min walk • illuminagegroup.com/ okukawachi2016-2017

Uzue Festival 卯杖祭り

Itakiso Shrine, Wakayama • Jan 14 & 15 Itakiso-jinja performs a divination to predict the outcome of the year s harvest by cooking azuki-bean porridge on the 14th. They treat visitors to porridge on the 15th.

TIME: 8pm Jan 14; 10am Jan 15th • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Wakayama Dentetsu Line, Itakiso Stn, 5-min walk • itakiso-jinja.net

The Osaka International Women’s Marathon 第36回大阪国際女子マラソン

The Louvre Museum Special Exhibition Louvre No.9 ルーブル美術館特別展 漫画、9番 目の芸術

Knowledge Capital in Grand Front Osaka • Jan 2–29 Comics in France are considered the Ninth Art and are increasingly becoming a significant topic for study and review in the 21st century. This exhibit introduces bande dessinée, another name for French comics, co-organized by the Louvre Museum in France. The BD project introduces talented manga artists from Japan, France, and around the world to show their works at the Louvre. This exhibition showcases an extensive selection of its featured works.

Yanmar Stadium Nagai (Start and finish), Osaka • Jan 29 The runners will leave Nagai stadium at 12:10pm, run beside Osaka Castle Park, past Osaka Municipal Hall and Midosuji street, and then back through the park to finish at the stadium.

TIME: 12:10pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nagai Subway Stn, 10-min walk to Yanmar Stadium Nagai • osaka-marathon.jp

Hyogo Automata Europe and Japan からくり人形西洋と日本

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI Shrine maids perform a karuta card game to please the deity of Omijingu. They re-enact scenes from the court game of bygone days. Following the ceremony there will be an official karuta tournament.

TIME: 9am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Omijingu-mae Stn, 9-min walk • oumijingu.org

Katsube Fire Festival 勝部の火祭り

Katsube Shrine, Shiga • Jan 14 Scantily clad young men dance wildly beside the roaring fire; this is an annual religious festival representing a legend where an evil serpent got slain.

TIME: 6pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Moriyama Stn, 5-min walk • biwakovisitors.jp/event/detail/733

Jan 1–3 & 7–9, Penguin Parade @ Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Rokko International Musical Box Museum, Hyogo • Until Mar 1

Awaji Yumebutai Kiseki no Hoshi Botanical Museum, Hyogo • Jan 21–Mar 5

An exhibition of European automata and Japanese mechanical puppets. While showing these classical dolls moving, they demonstrate their internal mechanisms and explore their history.

This is a feast for the senses with the beauty of orchids filling the 1,000-square-meter garden and aromatic fragrances from the flowers filling the air. Including valuable and rare breeds, over 10,000 pots of orchids will be on display in this popular flower show.

TIME: 10am–5pm (Closed Thursdays, Dec 31 & Jan 1) • ADMISSION: ¥1,030 adults, concessions • ACCESS: Rokko Cable Line, Rokkosanjo Stn, bus to Rokko International Musical Box Museum • rokkosan.com/museum

TIME: 10am–6pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Maiko Stn, bus to Awaji Yumebutai-mae • kisekinohoshi.jp

The Himeji Fire Brigade New Year Ceremony

Chinese New Year Celebration

姫路市消防出初式

2017 春節祭

Shirotopia Kinen Park, Hyogo • Jan 8

Kobe Nankin-Machi, Hyogo • Jan 22 & 27–29

Wearing traditional uniforms, Himeji s fire fighters perform stunts on high bamboo ladders.

This is the New Year ceremony called dezome-shiki where Himeji s fire brigade demonstrate its rescue drills.

Witness a striking lion dance, and the sound of firecrackers taking over the Nankin-Machi Chinatown, as they celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Rooster! Enjoy Chinese cuisine, kung fu demonstrations, a parade of historical figures and all things from China!

TIME: 9:30am–12 Noon (performances

are cancelled in case of rain) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn, 20-min walk • city.himeji.lg.jp/ syoubou.html

Orchid Exhibition 2017 特別展 淡路夢舞台ラン展2017

TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR or Hanshin Line, Motomachi Stn, 5-min walk • nankinmachi.or.jp

Valentine “Chocolate Paradise 2017” バレンタイン「チョコレートパラダイ ス2017」

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Sogo Kobe, Hyogo • Jan 25–Feb 14 The annual grand chocolate fair will take place on the 9th floor in the Sogo Kobe department store. It features especially sumptuous and romantic chocolates.

TIME: 10am–8pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR / Hankyu / Hanshin Line,

Sannomiya Stn • sogo-seibu.jp/kobe

Shiga Plum Tree Bonsai Exhibition

Kyoto Gafu-Ten – Bonsai Fair 雅風展

Miyako Messe, Kyoto • Jan 5–8 1,200 miniature trees will be on display. Events include a market of bonsai items, a bonsai tree crafting demonstration, workshops, seminars and more.

TIME: 9:30am–4:30pm (9:30am–3pm Jan 8) ADMISSION: ¥800 adults, concessions • ACCESS: Higashiyama Subway Stn, 8-min walk • shohinbonsai.or.jp/blog/category/gafu-ten

第66回長浜盆梅展

Keiun-Kan, Shiga • Jan 7–Mar 12 This is the best exhibition of plum-tree pots in Japan. Take a look at a 400-year-old tree, a three-meter tree and 90 other magnificent pots of plum blossoms set in a traditional Japanese house.

TIME: 9am–5pm • ADMISSION: ¥500 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Nagahama Stn, 3-min walk • kitabiwako. jp/bonbai

Karuta Ceremony – Traditional Card Game かるた祭り

Omijingu Shrine, Shiga • Jan 8

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Toshiya – New Year Japanese Archery Contest 通し矢

Sanjusangendo Temple, Kyoto • Jan 15 This is the national Japanese archery competition. Wearing beautiful kimono, 2,000 calm and collected lady archers shoot arrows into targets approximately 50–100 centimeters in diameter and 60 meters away at the opposite end of the veranda.

TIME: 9am–3:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae • sanjusangendo.jp/h_2.html#ivent2

Events

Jan 28, Field Burning at Mt. Wakakusa

Kayabuki no Sato Snow Lantern Festival 美山かやぶきの里「雪灯廊」

Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, Kyoto • Jan 28–Feb 4 Step back in time and see old Japan at this illumination event. Kayabuki no sato (the thatched village) is lit up decoratively and the whole village is adorned with lanterns made of snow. Attendees are also encouraged to join in with the making of these lanterns and the locals will happily show you how its done. There are fireworks on the first and last day of the week-long event.

Taking a tour bus from JR Kyoto station is recommended.

TIME: 5pm–8pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Sonobe or Hiyoshi Stn, bus to Kita • yukitouro.jp/en

The 211th Exhibition Graphics and Music kyoto ddd gallery • Jan 20–Mar 18

Nara Sasa Bamboo Sake Ceremony 光り仁会 ささ酒祭り

Daian Temple, Nara • Jan 23 Ladies in beautiful kimono serve ceremonial sake in a bamboo container over fire.

The sake is regarded as an anticancer medication.

TIME: 8am • ADMISSION: ¥500 • ACCESS: JR or Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, bus to Daianji • daianji.or.jp

Field Burning at Mt. Wakakusa 若草山焼き

Mt. Wakakusa, Nara • Jan 28 At this spectacular annual field burning with over 300 years of history, Mount Wakakusa will be lit on fire. There will be a variety of attractions around the foot of the mountain during the daytime.

TIME: 6:15pm • ADMISSION: Free •

An exhibition of posters from the foundation's permanent collection of graphic design works that are in some way related to music. Provides an insight into how designers express music visually.

TIME: 11am–7pm (until 6pm on Saturday and Jan 29) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kyoto subway Touzailine Uzumasa-tenjingawa, exit 1 • www.dnp.co.jp/gallery/ddd_e

ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, bus to Daibutsuden Kasugataisha-mae • narashikanko.or.jp/event/index. php?m=d&id=20

Art

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI A Journey to the Land of Immortals – Treasures of Ancient Greece

Hanaya Kanbei: A Photographer and His Age Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

Hanaya Kanbei was a photographer active in Ashiya City, Hyogo prefecture from the pre-war era. Born in Osaka in 1903, he later bought a photography supply shop and co-founded the amateur Ashiya Camera Club in 1930. He and his fellow club members experimented with design techniques already occurring in the West but thought of by many in Japan as too radical at the time. They utilized methods including Dadaist photomontage, photograms, and abstract imagery. Hanaya himself made use of various themes throughout his career, focusing on models, everyday people in action, and natural scenes as subjects. By the end of his life, Hanaya had received multiple artistic awards for his works. Visitors to this exhibition will view a number of extraordinary vintage prints by Hanaya, including those taken before the war, alongside shots taken by Ashiya Camera Club members who lived during the same period.

Hanaya Kanbei Exhibition • Until Mar 19 • OPEN: 10am–6pm, Fri & Sat during Special Exhibitions until 8pm (last entry 30mins before closing) • CLOSED: Mondays (open national holidays – incl Mondays – but closed the following day; closed during New Year holidays) • ADMISSION: ¥510 • ACCESS: Hanshin line, Iwaya Stn, 8-min walk • TEL: 078-262-0901 • artm.pref.hyogo.jp/eng

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Ancient Greek Art Exhibition • Until Apr 2 • OPEN: 9:30am–5:30pm (until 7pm Sat) • CLOSED: Mondays (except Jan 9 & Mar 20) & Dec 29-Jan 3, 10 Mar 21 • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Sannomiya Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 078-391-0035 • www.greece2016-17.jp

LOVE ♥ RIBON ♥ FUROKU Kyoto International Manga Museum The renowned girls manga magazine Ribon was first issued by the Shueisha publishing company in 1955. Over the years, a number of famous shojo (literally, young woman ) manga artists have gotten their start by appearing in Ribon, such as Arina Tanemura, Ai Yazawa, and Wataru Yoshizumi. Each issue of the magazine, often exceeding 400 pages, is filled with several different serialized stories drawn in distinct styles. In 1994 alone the magazine sold over 2,550,000 copies, a record yet to be broken to this day. This success has been partly attributed to furoku – goodie bags , small toys, colorful note paper that accompanied the manga magazines. A showcase of over 2,000 items related to Ribon s furoku is on display at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, providing guests with insight into the charm and allure of this popular genre.

Ribon Furoku Exhibition • Until Feb 5 • OPEN: 10am–6pm (Last entry 5:30pm) • CLOSED: Wednesdays & Dec 28 - Jan 4 • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: Karasuma Oike Stn, Exit 2, 2-min walk • TEL: 075-254-7414 • kyotomm.jp/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

©The Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports - Archaeological Receipts Fund

「漁夫のフレスコ画」 前17世紀 テラ先史博物館蔵

The aesthetic refinement of Ancient Greek art has mesmerized audiences from cultures around the world since the era of its creation. Centering on themes of polytheism and the intricate relationship between gods and mortals, the style depicted in Ancient Greek works has stood out against other historical art forms for its glorified yet lifelike portrayals of the human body. The Kobe City Museum invites guests on a journey through the evolution of this classical genre. On display at this large-scale exhibition are over 300 pieces from various areas around Ancient Greece including sculptures, fresco paintings, and metal objects dating from the Aegean era through to the Hellenistic period. Witness these unprecedented works conceived at the original source of Western culture, 90 percent of which are appearing in Japan for the first time.

© Yue Takasuka / SHUEISHA

HANAYA Kanbei《Photomontage（Lady and Glass）A》1933 Private Collection

Kobe City Museum

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

The Pleasure of Collecting: Inbande Plates and Asian Kites Osaka Museum of History •  Until Feb 13 Over one thousand patterned plates accumulated over the course of 30 years are on display.

These works were produced during the Meiji and Showa periods using a traditional transfer-printing pottery method called inbande. Additionally, kites from around Asia adorned with designs representative of local trends can be seen.

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Tuesdays

& Jan 1–4 • ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: Tanimachi subway line, Tanimachi 4-chome Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 06-69465728 • mus-his.city.osaka.jp/eng

Railway Arts Festival Vol. 6: Adventure of the Structure Art Area B1 •  Until Jan 22

Kyoto Whose Manga Is It? Kyoto International Manga Museum •  Until Feb 7 This exhibition explores the question, Who is manga for? through the lens of three specific genres: educational manga, satirical manga, and moe bijin shojo illustrations. These subjects are interpreted from the viewpoints of conventional audiences and those with non-traditional perspectives such as international fans, cosplayers, visually impaired readers, and others.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Wednesdays & Jan 1–4 • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: Karasuma Oike Stn, Exit 2, 2-min walk • TEL: 075-254-7414 • kyotomm.jp/en

Yasuka Goto “The Patch of Despair” Gallery Fleur at Kyoto Seika University •  Until Jan 21

The Railway Arts Festival brings together creators working to capture the unique characteristics and history of railway culture.

Volume 6 focuses on physical and metaphorical structures existing within society in the context of film, literature, painting, and music.

Yasuka Goto s wall-sized paintings focus on struggles experienced by her grandfathers and greatgrandfathers who survived periods of war, as well as those of laborers alive during the same era. Her emotionally dynamic works portray an amazing determination to live bravely through times of cruelty and despair.

OPEN: 12pm–7pm • CLOSED: Mondays (except Jan 9) & Jan 1–3, 10 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi Stn, Exit 1 • TEL: 06-6226-4006 • artarea-b1.jp

OPEN: 11am–6pm • CLOSED: Sundays & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Eizan Kurama Line, Kyoto Seikadaimae Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 075-702-5263 • kyoto-seika.ac.jp/fleur

Noboru Tanaka + Masanori Nishimura “Resonance of the Landscape”

Sujin Memory Bank Project #01: Deracinated Memories

Art Court Gallery •  Until Apr 30, 2018

The Cosmos in a Tea Bowl: Transmitting a Secret Art across Generations of the Raku Family The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto In 16th-century Kyoto, Japanese tea master Sen no Rikyu asked Chojiro, a potter, to make tea bowls for use in sacred wabi style tea ceremonies.

The original techniques used to create these chawan tea bowls gave rise to a unique genre of traditional pottery now known as Raku ware. Raku, meaning enjoyment, comfort, or ease, was the name given to the family that has produced these tea bowls over the past 15 generations through implementation of the isshisoden method of passing on the secrets of an art form from a father to one of his sons. As a result of this time-honored system, authentic Raku ware works appear as if they were created over hundreds of years by a single artist, though the Raku style has been adopted domestically and internationally by an untold number of potters. Alongside pieces by Honami Koetsu, one of the Raku family s closest associates, the beauty of Raku ware and its connections with Japan s spiritual culture are examined in this fascinating display.

Raku Ware Exhibition • Until Feb 12 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mondays (except Jan 9) & Jan 1, 2, 10 • ADMISSION: ¥1400 • ACCESS: Tozai Subway line, Higashiyama Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 075-7614111 • www.momak.go.jp/English

Yanagihara Bank Memorial Museum •  Until Jan 22

This open-air exhibition will be set along the OAP Sculpture Path until April 2018. Witness Noboru Tanaka s nature-themed granite sculptures including Black Rain and Sound of Wind. Also explore Masanori Nishimura s ethereal Blossom Tunnel and giant yellow Schoolchild Umbrella/Raining Light sculpture, among other works.

This exhibition highlights anonymous local people captured in rare historical photos housed in the Yanagihara Bank Memorial Museum archives. Works include commemorative shots and family albums of everyday citizens forgotten by history. This display is a modest attempt at giving these untouched images a new breath of life.

OPEN: 11am–7pm (until 5pm Sat) •

OPEN: 10am–4:30pm • CLOSED: Mondays,

CLOSED: Sundays, Mondays & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Sakuranomiya Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 066354-5444 • artcourtgallery.com

Tuesdays & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kyoto Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 075-371-0295 • kcua.ac.jp/arc/ information/38

Nara Collection Masterpieces: Oil and Nihonga Paintings in Modern Japan Nakano Museum of Art •  Until Jan 29

selection of 40 oil and nihonga paintings by Kokei Kobayashi, Hako Irie, and other artists, as well as prints by Yozo Hamaguchi.

OPEN: 10am–4pm • CLOSED: Mondays & Jan 1–12 • ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: Kintetsu Nara Line, Gakuenmai Stn, 8-min walk • TEL: 0742-48-1167 • nakano-museum.jp

Nihonga are paintings produced in accordance with traditional Japanese techniques developed and refined for over a thousand years. This exhibition gives visitors a chance to view a

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11

Black Raku tea bowl named "Ōguro" Chōjirō I (Died 1589) 16C 8.5×11.5cm

Osaka

Art

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Dinosaur Jr.

Live Music

JAN

30

Arguably one of the most influential bands in American alternative rock, Dinosaur Jr. (originally just called Dinosaur) was formed in 1984 by guitarist Joseph Mascis, bassist Lou Barlow, and drummer Emmett Murphy.

Last year they released their latest album Give a Glimpse of What Yer Not, their 11th album in the 31 years since their 1985 debut Dinosaur.

The new album received good reviews, and with the original line-up still in place, it is clear their inspiration has not yet run dry.

In an interview with NME last year, singer and guitarist J Mascis revealed that he gets his songwriting inspiration from fishing! I would liken songwriting to fishing, just kind of sit there with the guitar playing and hoping something will come to you.

Experimental rock trio from America formed 1984 • Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥7,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Jan / Feb Rock & Pop Ryutaro Arimura Jan 12

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Pop • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,900/¥8,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Whitney Jan 19

Plastic Tree vocalist and guitarist

US indie-rock band from Chicago formed 2015

Akaso, Osaka • Alt Rock • 7pm • ¥5,500 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Shangri-La, Osaka • Indie • 7pm • ¥5,500 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Spyair

Alley Cats

Jan 15

Jan 20

Japanese rock band from Nagoya formed 2005

First Japan tour for ex-Faster Pussycat guitarist Brent Muscat s new band

Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka • Rock • 5pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Howard Jones Jan 18 British 80 s pop singer-songwriter and musician

Journey @ Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka

Live House Soma, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6212-2295

Nana Mizuki Jan 21 & 22

Japanese voice actress and trained Enka and pop singer

Kyocera Dome, Osaka • Rock • 6pm • ¥12,000/¥28,000 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka • Pop • Jan 21 6pm; Jan 22 4pm • ¥7,900 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Blossoms

Guns N’ Roses Jan 21 Classic US heavy rock reunion tour

Jan 22 British indie-rock band Club Quattro, Osaka • Indie rock • 6pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

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13

Live Music

JAN

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

JAN

20 21 Alley Cats Alley Cats is the new band from US guitarist Brent Muscat. Muscat was a cofounder of the successful glam-rock band Faster Pussycat, which released its debut album in 1987. The band broke up in 1993 after three albums reaching gold and platinum sales status.

Joining Muscat in this new band are bassist and actor Zach Throne, Stephen Mills on drums (who has previously worked with Bullet Boys, Great White, and Gene Loves Jezebel), and Japanese guitarist Takashi Ohashi.

The Alley Cats have a self-produced EP out which they will be promoting on their first visit to Japan as a band. They ll be playing six dates including Osaka on January 20th and Kyoto on the 21st.

First Japan tour for ex-Faster Pussycat guitarist Brent Muscat’s new band • Jan 20 Live House Soma, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-6212-2295 • Jan 21 Toga Toga, Kyoto • 6pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 075-744-1497

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Joe Satriani

Guns N’ Roses

Feb 7

Jan 21

Joe Satriani is undoubtedly the modern-era guitarist s guitarist. His past students include Steve Vai and Kirk Hammett among others. He was recruited by Mick Jagger for Jagger s first solo tour, and he filled the void left by Ritchie Blackmore in Deep Purple until Steve Morse took the role permanently.

There have been a good few major rock-band reunions in recent years, but without a doubt, Guns N Roses is the biggest. It is the one that had been talked about for many years and with bassist Duff McKagan and guitarist Izzy Stradlin making occasional guest appearances with the newer line-up, there was plenty of speculation. But the fans wanted Slash and without Slash and Axl Rose together it would never really be Guns N Roses.

Born in New York, he picked up the guitar at age 14 apparently after hearing of the death of Jimi Hendrix. His second album Surfing With The Alien is probably a more recognized favorite by fans but the third Flying In A Blue Dream was the one that gave him the commercial breakthrough in 1989.

Satriani s latest album is the 2015 Shockwave Supernova though later in the same year he also collaborated with Robin DiMaggio (United Nations Musical Director) to compose the song Music Without Words with all proceeds going to UNICEF. Renowned US instrumental guitarist • Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥10,000 • TEL: 06-4397-0572

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Now that it has happened, vocalist Axl Rose seems to have gotten his mojo back and his voice has the edge of Appetite For Destruction again that was missing in recent tours. In an interview last year Slash said, It seems so surreal to me, but everybody s really getting along great and I think everybody s come a long way and it s all cool.

Welcome to the Jungle, again!

Classic US rock reunion • Kyocera Dome, Osaka • Rock • 6pm • ¥12,000/¥28,000 • TEL: 0570-200888

Live Music Polysics Jan 25 Japanese new-wave and rock band from Tokyo Shangri-La, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,800 • TEL: 06-6357-3666

Dir en Grey Jan 24 & 25 Japanese heavy rock band since 1994 Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Yuta Saito Jan 26 Japanese singer-songwriter and pianist Akaso, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥5,500 • TEL: 06-6357-3666

Dinosaur Jr.

Classical-pop crossover Japanese piano and cajon duo Taku Taku, Kyoto • Classical-pop • 5pm • ¥5,000/¥6,000 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Ice Station Event ft. Nanook (from Greenland) plus Kurt Block, Peter Buck (R.E.M.), Scott McCaughey, Mike Mills, Linda Pitman, Steve Wynn, & Michelle Noach Feb 7 Music, art, and film minifestival in Kyoto and Tokyo Taku Taku, Kyoto • Mixed genre • 7pm • ¥6,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Joe Satriani Feb 7 Famed US guitar player Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥10,000 • TEL: 06-4397-0572

Jan 30

Monkey Majik

Experimental rock trio from America formed 1984

Feb 8

Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7:30pm • ¥7,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Journey Feb 1 US classic AOR band featuring guitarist Neal Schon Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥11,000/¥12,000 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

Bobby Caldwell

Mini live performance and talk Janus, Osaka • rock-pop • 7:30pm • ¥TBA • TEL: 06-6882-1224

The Album Leaf Feb 10 Musical solo project of US musician Jimmy Lavalle Americamura FANJ Twice, Osaka • Ambient • TIME: TBA • ¥TBA • TEL: 06-6484-3880

Jan 30 & Feb 1 - 2

Sekai No Owari

American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist

Feb 11 & 12

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • AOR • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥11,250/¥12,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

go!go!vanaillas

Japanese band formed 2005, known for the hit Dragon Night Kyocera Dome, Osaka • Rock pop • Feb 11 6pm; Feb 12 5pm • ¥8,100 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

Feb 3

Rip Slyme

Japanese four-piece rock band

Feb 11 & 12

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock pop • 7pm • ¥3,300/¥3,800 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

Pia-no-jaC Feb 5

Japanese Hip Hop four-piece of MCs formed 1994 Namba Hatch, Osaka • Hip-hop • 6pm • ¥5,555 • TEL: 06-6344-3326

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI Kishi Bashi Feb 12 Indie pop-rock American singer and multi-instrumentalist Club Quattro, Osaka • Indie • 6pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

The Muggles Every Fri & Sat

JAN

22 INTERVIEW

Blossoms In 2013 they played their first gig, in 2014 they quit their jobs to pursue music full time, and in 2016 they had a number-one UK album. KS caught up with Blossoms, the new Indie guitar band from Manchester, England, to find out about their rapid rise to the top and about their upcoming trip to Japan.

It is just three years since the first Blossoms live gig and now you have a UK chart-topping debut album. Looking back at when the band started out, could you imagine where you would be today?

We never started the band as a career choice so all these things we ve achieved have kind of come as milestones as the band s grown and we ve developed together. We never got too focused on having a chart-topping album – we wanted to write great songs that people connect with and I think we re doing just that.

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

R&B Meshell Ndegeocello Jan 17 US singer-songwriter, bassist, and rapper Billboard live OSAKA, Osaka • R&B and funk • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,900/¥8,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Jyongri Jan 24 Japanese Korean R&B-pop vocals and piano Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • R&B • 7:30pm/9pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 06-63425821

Misia Jan 28 & 29 Widely recognized as the first Japanese R&B superstar

Eutrophic guitar-synth pop, which sounds like it could have been out in 1980 or 2080.

Osaka-jo Hall, Osaka • R&B • TIME: TBA • ¥8,640/¥11,340 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Continuing to write great songs and see the fan base grow all around the world. We absolutely love doing this, so long may it continue.

New British Indie Band • Club Quattro, Osaka • Indie • 6pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • R&B Disco • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,800/¥9,800 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Jazz & Blues Marcus Miller Jan 6 US jazz composer and multiinstrumentalist Senkai Hall Breeze, Osaka • Jazz • 7pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Tomoko Omura Jan 16

How would you describe the Blossoms’ sound to a potential new fan?

Where would you like to see the band in the next three years?

Ex-Shalamar vocalist and solo singer-songwriter

Jody Watley

Japanese jazz violinist Big Apple, Kobe • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥2,500/¥3,000 • TEL: 078-251-7049

Tore Brunborg Jan 24 Norwegian jazz saxophonist Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥3,600/¥4,500 • TEL: 075-255-7273

Karen Aoki & Shikou Ito Jan 27 Japanese jazz vocal and piano duo Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm/9pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Karl Hjalmar Nyberg and Andreas Skår Winther Feb 6 Scandanavian free-improv saxophone and drums duo Big Apple, Kobe • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥2,800/¥3,000 • TEL: 078-251-7049

Feb 9

Who’s playing?

Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest live music listings...

16

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Club

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Circus

JAN

The pioneering drum n bass producer and DJ, Daniel Stein – AKA DJ Fresh, is returning to Japan for the first time in seven years. He got his start as a member of the drum n bass group Bad Company and also founded the record label BC Recordings in 1998.

He started his solo career in 2002 and launched the label Breakbeat Kaos with Adam F. He successfully widened the appeal of drum n bass by collaborating with Pet Shop Boys as well as DJ Shadow on his first album Escape from Planet Monday in 2006. Stein s second solo album Kryptonite, released in 2010, led to greater commercial success in the UK and Ireland. During this period, he produced popular tracks with Pendulum, Nero, and Sigma for Breakbeat Kaos.

In 2011, he released his third album Nextlevelism on the label Ministry of Sound. The album features many popular artists such as Sian Evans, Dizzee Rascal and Rita Ora. The album s singles Louder and Hot Right Now both peaked at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. Louder was the first dubstep track to reach No. 1 and Hot Right Now became the first drum n bass single to reach No. 1. He has

14

released several singles from his forthcoming album as direct downloads. He officially announced his retirement from touring due to frustrations with the music industry and health problems.

Don t miss your chance to see DJ Fresh on his last Japan tour.

DJ Fresh & Messy MC Japan Tour 2017 (Drum‘n’Bass) • ACTS: Fresh & Messy MC + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

January 2 (Mon)

6 (Fri)

Ghost Ultra Lounge

Bar Cauliflower

Glister Ghost New Year s Party (Hip Hop/R&B)

Ponzu Island Japan Tour in Osaka (Electronica)

DJS: Ree-Age, Giann, Fu-chi, Ar, Son★Son, Yk, Hatake + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,500; Ladies ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

ACTS: Ponzu Island, Roy Comanchero, Mori Ra, Yae Sun Laurent, Kojin, Kola • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6484-3110 • bar-cauliflower.com

3 (Tue) Triangle Legalize – weekday D n B!!!!! – (Drum n Bass) ACTS: 81blend, Tomishi, Yanmah, You, Hiraku, Pacone + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

18

Circus Issugi & Gradis Nice Day And Night Release Party In Osaka (Hip Hop) ACTS: ISSUGI&P-hz, Psycho Patch, Endrun, Yotaro, Chakra × O.d.s, Questa, Shoe, Cronosfader, Ch.0, Chin, The India Meets Taa × Nagamune × Yu • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Metro Total Age #2 (Techno/New Wave/ House) ACTS: Pinch, Ito Teacher, Bodil, Yullippe Shintaro Fujita, Yuki Pacific, Takao • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Socore Factory New Year Immediate Attack!

Religious Girls (from Oakland.CA) Japan Tour in Osaka (Alternative/ Bass/Breakcore) LIVE: Religious Girls, African Bugs Beat experience • DJS: Doggiechow, Mayumikiller + more • OPEN: 7:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,300/1D (ADV: ¥1,800/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

Zepp Namba Diplo (Breaks/Hip Hop/Electro)

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

DJ: Diplo • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥8,000 • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-66308533 • creativeman.co.jp

7 (Sat) Circus DJ Ageishi × Kenji Takimi (House) DJS: Ageishi, Kenji Takimi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

Gypsy Treks #22 Treks 6 year Anniversary (Techno) ACTS: Kihira Naoki, Shu, Masato.M, Dsk, JIMA, Muuta • OPEN: 9:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-212-3223 • gypsy-kyoto.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Troop Café Extro presents Visitors – New Year Special – (Techno) DJS: Bergas, Adji, Norio, Free Disco,

Pixie, Ze, π, Db, Hikaru, I.b • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail Reservation : ¥2,000 /1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

8 (Sun)

Bug Party × Tripping Factory New Year Bash 2017!!! (Drum n Bass/ Dubstep/Bass) ACTS: Goth-Trad, Ancorsong, Naga, Yanmah, H-Taiji, You, Loshi + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

Troop Cafe Bush (Techno/Minimal)

Night Wax Right On Time (Reggae) DJS: Beppu, Rudy Naoki, Umegasako, Pirates Choice • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6575-9464 • drumandbass-rec. com

21

Triangle

Circus presents Ryan Hemsworth & Tofubeats (Beat) • OPEN: 5pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,300 (ADV: ¥2,800) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

JAN

14 (Sat)

Circus

LIVE: Ryan Hemsworth • DJ: Tofubeats

ACTS: Nicola Kazimir, Ebo, Soichi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

Jan 21, Goth-Trad @ Metro

15 (Sun) Circus Circus Presents Nick the Record (House/Disco) DJS: Nick the Record + more • OPEN: 6pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

9 (Mon) Osaka-Jo Hall David Guetta (EDM)

Night Wax

20 (Fri)

Music Ambassador (Reggae)

Noon + Cafe

ADMISSION: ¥9,000 • WHERE: Osaka-Jo

Timisoara (Multi Culti Show Case) in Osaka (Techno/Tribal)

11 (Wed) Socore Factory Marginal Records New Year Party (Juke/Bass/Hip Hop/Techno)

DJS: Thomas Von Party, Ya△ma, Ground, Hara, Yaguchi • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500) • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

Sumio Iwase, Aaakkkiii, Irimoto, Wataru, Pan • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

Murlo (Grime/Bass)

Circus presents Derrick May (Techno/House) DJS: Derrick May + more • OPEN: 11pm

• ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Nu-Labo Special Session (Ambient/Drone/Noise) LIVE: CazU-23, Enitokwa Orhythmo,

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

Troop Cafe

Yuparupar • DJ: Murakami, Aluca, Nakam • OPEN: 11:55pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

27 (Fri)

Beyond: 02 (Techno) ACTS: Aoki Takamasa, Sodeyama,

Sekitova, Shinji Nakamura, A know good + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

Metro Naughty Tripper Presents: Goth-Trad Psionics Release Party (Dubstep/Bass) ACTS: Goth-Trad, O.N.O a.k.a Machine

Live, Clock Hazard, Young Animal,

ACTS: Darren Emerson, Yashima, Yuuna • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Night Wax Golden Wax (Hip Hop/Open Format) ACTS: IQ, Mighty Mars, Fox-X, Judo, KJ, Kanemah, Tetsuo, Waxman OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6575-9464 • drumandbass-rec. com

28 (Sat) Noon + Cafe

21 (Sat) Circus

Circus

ACTS: Masato, Mon-P, Yanagi, Yuto, Maeyan, Arc-man OPEN: 6pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6575-9464 • drumandbass-rec. com

26 (Thu)

ACTS: Fulltono, Tuttle, Ce$, Jimmer,

13 (Fri)

Aki, Ceeestee, Oshaley • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

22 (Sun)

DJS: David Guetta + more • OPEN: 3pm •

Koen • TEL: 075-212-3223 • creativeman. co.jp

Club

Circus

Circus Club Snoozer (Electro/Dance/ House) DJS: Soichiro Tanaka, Hisashi the Kid • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Night Wax Song of People (Reggae) ACTS: E-mura, Zero Movement, My Star, Base Line, Yellow Teresa, Zaroo • OPEN: 10:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6575-9464 • drumandbass-rec.com

Circus Presents Darren Emerson (Techno)

Where’s the party?

Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest club listings...

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

19

Cinema

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

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

Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Florence Foster Jenkins, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Inferno, The Childhood of a Leader, Blair Witch, The Girl on the Train, Sausage Party • From Jan 6: Dirty Grandpa, Nerve • From Jan 13: The Neon Demon • From Jan 21: Silence, The Accountant • From Jan 27: Snowden, Suffragette, The Magnificent Seven, Doctor Strange 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: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Oasis: Supersonic, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Inferno, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back • From Jan 7: USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage, Antigang • From Jan 21: The Accountant, Silence • From Jan 27: Doctor Strange Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,000

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: Rogue One : A Star Wars Story, Don t Breathe, Miles Ahead, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Pete s Dragon, Meru, Florence Foster Jenkins, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Jan 7: Misconduct • From Jan 13: The Neon Demon 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: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Florence Foster Jenkins, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Inferno, The Childhood of a Leader, Blair Witch, Nine Lives, The Girl on the Train • From Jan 6: Dirty Grandpa, Nerve • From Jan 13: The Neon Demon • From Jan 21: Silence, The Accountant • From Jan 27: Snowden, Suffragette, The Magnificent Seven, Doctor Strange Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater.jp • Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100, every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Cine Libre Umeda

Namba Parks Cinema

Now showing: PK, Jaco, Nicky s Family, The Great Museum, Born to Be Blue, Evolution, En man som heter Ove (SWE), Knight of Cups, The Lady In The Van, Stonewall • From Jan 07: El abrazo de la serpiente • From Jan 14: Teatro alla Scala: Il tempio delle meraviglie, La Passion d Augustine, Relève: Histoire d une creation • From Jan 21: Demain • From Jan 28: Wiener-Dog

Now showing: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Oasis: Supersonic, Meru, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them • From Jan 7: David Bowie Is, Misconduct • From Jan 21: Silence, Queen of the Desert, Maggie s Plan, The Accountant • From Jan 27: The Magnificent Seven, Doctor Strange

Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st and 15th of the month – ¥1,000

Theatre Umeda Now showing: Ants on a Shrimp, Hitchcock/Truffaut, The Fencer (FIN), Under sandet (GER) • From Jan 14: Chant d hiver (FRA) • From Jan 28: Egon Schiele: Tod und Mädchen (AUT)

20

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

Cinem@rt Now showing: Every Thing Will Be Fine, Crazy About Tiffany s, Elstree 1976, Smoke • From Jan 7: The Man Who Fell to Earth • From Jan 14: Sad Vacation: The Last Days of Sid and Nancy • From Jan 28: Wild, A Brilliant Young Mind

Snowden: Compelling docudrama about NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, directed by Oliver Stone. From Jan 27.

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: Don t Breathe, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Florence Foster Jenkins, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Oasis: Supersonic, Meru • From Jan 7: Misconduct • From Jan 14: La Passion d Augustine • From Jan 21: Silence, Maggie s Plan, The Accountant • From Jan 27: The Magnificent Seven 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: Nicky s Family, Hitchcock/Truffaut, Janis: Little Girl Blue, The Fencer (FIN), Under sandet (GER), La battaglia di Algeri (ITA), Song of the Sea, About Time • From Jan 2: Fúsi, The Physician, Monsieur Ibrahim et les fleurs du Coran (FRA) • From Jan 14: Genius, Er ist wieder da (GER) • From Jan 21: The Fencer (FIN), Smoke, 11 minutes, The Shawshank Redemption • From Jan 28: Egon Schiele: Tod und Mädchen (AUT), You re Not You Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Toho Cinemas Nijo Now showing: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Florence Foster Jenkins, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Inferno, The Childhood of a Leader, Blair Witch, Nine Lives, The Girl on the Train • From Jan 6: Dirty Grandpa, Nerve • From Jan 13: The Neon Demon • From Jan 21: Silence, The Accountant • From Jan 27: Snowden, Suffragette, The Magnificent Seven, Doctor Strange Tel: 075-813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Hyogo Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Now showing: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, Hitchcock/Truffaut, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Oasis: Supersonic • From Jan 7: USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage • From Jan 14: La Passion d Augustine • From Jan 21: Queen of the Desert, Maggie s Plan, The Accountant • From Jan 27: The Magnificent Seven, Suffragette Tel: 078-230-3580 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

COOL STUFF /

TECH

Apps for Best Eats and Easy Navigation Whether you re spoilt for choice or don t know where to look, these apps will help guide you to the best eats in Kansai.

Text: Dave Wingler

OpenRice

HappyCow Vegan

Japan Transit Planner

»» Cost: Free

»» Cost: ¥480

»» Cost: ¥400

»» What it does: Finding a new place to

»» What it does: Finding a good

»» What it does: Make sure you don t

eat has been made incredibly easy with OpenRice. For newcomers to Japan as well as seasoned locals, this is the go-to app to find new tasty meals guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds. The app breaks down dining choices into ramen, sushi/ sashimi, cafes, takoyaki, yakiniku, and donburi. Those interested in trying something a bit more elegant, can even browse for Michelin star restaurants. »» Why it’s great: OpenRice is incredibly

useful especially in a place of such diverse cuisine as Japan. While there are other food apps out there, this app is in English, which makes it a really great help for navigating all the food choices available in Japan s kitchen (Osaka). What s more, there are tons of listings for the Kyoto area, which has its own delicious and unique cuisine. Complete with food porn, reviews, and prices, each restaurant s location is on an integrated map along with phone numbers. Another great feature of this app is that it is used all over Asia (China, Thailand, Hong Kong, and more) so if you are going on an adventure, you will be covered when it comes to all the tasty local dishes. »» Developer: OpenRice Group Inc. »» Platform: iOS / Android »» Website: openrice.com

restaurant is sometimes not as easy as it sounds and trying to find a good vegan or vegetarian restaurant can be a big ask. Happy Cow is a great app that helps animal lovers find vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

There are also listings for macrobiotic eateries along with stores that cater to organic food lovers. It is an incredible resource for both vegetarians and the health conscious looking to discover some great places to eat and meet like-minded folk. »» Why it’s great: The app provides

great suggestions for numerous restaurants in Kansai and beyond.

You can adjust the range to locate options nearby or ones off the beaten path, and follow the interactive map with directions and phone numbers to help get you there. There is also website information for the restaurants, cafes, health-food stores, and even vegan hostels available in this app s comprehensive database.

An added bonus is the informative user reviews for each restaurant to help make your choice easier, and also the ability to upload photos of your delicious food. You can store your favorites for future reference and organize restaurants and stores for easy access in time for upcoming trips.

rock up late for your next lunch date or dinner reservation! Norikae Annai is the most downloaded navigation app in Japan. Bearing this in mind, its developers have come up with Japan Transit Planner, the multilanguage version of Norikae Annai.

This useful app allows you to find the departure and arrival times you will need for Japanese domestic railway and airplane routes. You can enter your place of departure in English or Japanese. This app is your gateway to getting around when going out to eat and play in Japan s vast wonderland! »» Why it’s great: While iOS has just

recently released an update that allows you to make queries on train times, Japan Transit Planner offers even more value for money and allows you to make queries for specific dates as well as arrival times.

Moreover, the app can also calculate time travel precisely, allowing you to plan in advance and make sure you are never late based on how much time you have at your disposal. All stations are also listed in both English and Japanese so if you re having trouble determining whether you re at the right station or not you can easily show a conductor or friendly local and they can give you some help! »» Developer: Jorudan Co. Ltd

»» Developer: HappyCow

»» Platform: iOS / Android

»» Platform: iOS / Android

»» Website: world.jorudan.co.jp/mln

»» Website: happycow.net/mobile 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.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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The votes are in!

Announcing the winners of Kansai Scene’s first ever Readers’ Choice Awards!

And the winners are…

Bars, Pubs & Entertainment Cherry Bomb

 Winner

Cherry Bomb

Killer music, a great atmosphere, and best of all Taco Tuesdays! » Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » facebook.com/RockBarCherryBomb

Photo: Cherry Bomb

Runner-up: Cafe Absinthe Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • absinthe-jp. com/cafe-absinthe

Best Craft Beer Bar Serving up Kansai’s best brews

Best Bar Hands-down, the best place to pull up a stool in Kansai

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 Winner

Runner-up: TNT Location: Taisho, Osaka • facebook.com/craft. beer.pub.tnt

Best Irish Pub Top spot to enjoy the Craic  Winner

Murphy’s

Recently celebrating its 25th anniversary, Murphy s continues to be a cornerstone of the Osaka bar scene. » Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » murphysosaka.com

Craft Cafe Imazato

Come here for the best craft beer prices in Kansai - and the hoppiest IPAs! » Location: Imazato, Osaka » craftcafeimazato.jimdo.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Runner-up: The Blarney Stone Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • the-blarney-stone.com

Readers’ Choice Awards 2016 Best Sports Bar

Best Standing Bar

Best Club

Where to throw some darts, shoot some pool, or just watch the game

Kansai’s top tachinomi

For carving up the dance floor

 Winner

 Winner

Balabushka

Maruho

 Winner

» Location: Nishi-ku, Osaka » facebook.com/

» Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » balabushka.jimdo.com

events/1195271580546357 Runner-up: Pure Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • clubpure. com/venue

Runner-up: Kujira Location: Ura-Namba • tabelog.com/en/ osaka/A2701/A270202/27064012

Runner-up: The Hub Location: Several locations • pub-hub.com Rogin’s Tavern

Best ‘Nice Night Out’

Best Alternative Bar

Where to go for cocktails and conversation

Quirky spots for a drink and something different  Winner

 Winner

Space Station

Photo: Jason Haidar

» Location: Shinsaibashi » thesuitejapan.com

» Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » facebook.com/SpaceStationOsaka

Where to find a finger of your favorite single malt

Space Station

Best Sake Bar The mecca for sake lovers Hana Sake Bar

» Location: Nishishinsaibashi, Osaka » hanasakebar.com

Runner-up: Kujira Location: Ura-Namba, Osaka • tabelog.com/ en/osaka/A2701/A270202/27064012

Best Cocktails Kansai’s best alcoholic concoctions Cafe Absinthe

» Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » absinthe-jp.com/cafe-absinthe

Runner-up: Lamp Bar Location: Nara • Facebook search: LAMP BAR（ランプ・バー ）

Photo: The Suite

Runner-up: Kowloon’s Bar Location: Kurosaki-cho, Osaka • kowloonsbar.co.uk

Photo: Space Station / © Tsuyoshi Tagawa

Tavern/332010490216285

 Winner

The Suite

Rogin’s Tavern

» Location: Moriguchi, Osaka » facebook.com/pages/Rogins-

 Winner

Runner-up: Seven House Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • sevenhouseosaka.com

Runner-up: Shinka (submarine bar) Location: Andojimachi, Osaka • tabelog. com/en/osaka/A2701/A270204/27062468/ dtlrvwlst/3693822

Best Whiskey/Bourbon Bar

The Suite

Modeled after a New York hotel suite, this place is as suave as it gets.

Indulge in some nostalgia and play some video games from your childhood.

 Winner

Circus

» Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » circus-osaka.com

Best Live Music Venue Where to see your favorite bands

Best Karaoke Spot Where to belt out a few alcoholfuelled classics  Winner

The Drunken Clam

No retreating to a karaoke room here!

Sing your heart out to your tipsy, toe-tapping audience. » Location: Souemon-cho, Osaka » thedrunkenclamjp.com

Runner-up: Jumbo Karaoke (Jankara) Location: Many locations • jankara.ne.jp

 Winner

Billboard Live OSAKA

» Location: Umeda, Osaka » billboard-live.com

Runner-up: Namba Hatch Location: Namba, Osaka • namba-hatch.com

Best Theater or Live Comedy The top spot to experience Japanese live shows  Winner

ROR Comedy Club

» Location: Namba, Osaka » rorcomedy.com

Runner-up: Takarazuka Revue Location: Takarazuka Grand Theater, Hyogo • kageki.hankyu.co.jp/english

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Readers’ Choice Awards 2016 Restaurants & Dining Best Brunch

Best Burgers

Best Italian Food

For the ultimate late-morning breakfast

The real burger king

The go-to Italian restaurant

 Winner

 Winner

Westwood Bakers

Craft Burger

With craft beer pairing suggestions for every burger (The gorgonzola burger is to die for. Try it with an IPA).

» Location: Minamihorie » westwoodbakers.com

» Location: Kitahorie, Osaka » craftburger.jp

Runner-up: Craft Burger Location: Kitahorie, Osaka • craftburger.jp

Runner-up: Sasebo Burger Location: Tennoji • Yelp or Tripadvisor search: Sasebo Burger Tennoji

Best Independent Coffee Shop

Best Mexican Food

The finest cup of joe in town

The tastiest burritos and nachos in town

Brooklyn Roasting Company  Winner

 Winner

» Location: Namba & Kitahama, Osaka » brooklynroasting.jp

Saboten

» Location: Kitahorie, Osaka » facebook.com/saboten.horie

Runner-up: Coffee Roughnecks Location: Minamihorie, Osaka • facebook.com/coffeeroughnecks

Runner-up: El Zocalo Location: Kitahorie, Osaka • facebook.com/ El-ZocaloBurrito-143521265681806

Best Cafe Saboten

Where to kick back and enjoy a drink and a snack  Winner

Lingua World Cafe

Craft Burger

Best Chinese Food Spicy noodles, delicious dumplings, and crispy duck  Winner

Ding Tai Fung

» Location: Umeda & Namba, Osaka;

Kyoto » dintaifung.tw/store/en-japan.html

Runner-up: Chinese Cafe Eight Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • http://en.cceight.com/restaurant

Best Vegetarian/Vegan Food

 Winner

Paprika Shokudo

Photo: Saboten

» Location: Shinmachi, Osaka » Facebook Search: Natural BAR Paprika

Vegan Dining

Best Indian Food

Runner-up: Le Coccole Location: Kitakyushuji-cho, Osaka • le-coccole.jp

Where to go to eat spicy curry to your heart’s content

Best Ramen

Ali’s Kitchen

A hidden gem of truly mouthwatering Pakistani and Arabic halal ethnic cuisine. » Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka » aliskitchen.jp

Photo: Craft Burger

Runner-up: Azzurri Pizzeria Location: Sannomiya, Hyogo • Tabelog Search: Azzurri Pizzeria

Huge amounts of creativity poured into every dish - so flavorsome you could swear you were eating meat sometimes!

 Winner

Runner-up: Suraj Location: Several locations • Tabelog Search: Suraju

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Santa Lucia

» Location: Higobashi, Osaka » Tabelog Search: Santa Lucia

Where to go for some healthy whole food

» Location: Tennoji, Osaka » linguaworldcafe.com

Runner-up: Brooklyn Roasting Company Location: Namba & Kitahama, Osaka • brooklynroasting.jp

 Winner

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Kansai’s most mouth-watering noodles  Winner

Ippudo

» Location: Several locations » ippudo.com

Runner-up: Kinryu Ramen Location: Dotonbori, Osaka • dotonbori.or.jp/en/shops/89

Readers’ Choice Awards 2016 Shops & Services Best Backpackers’ Hostel

Kyoto National Museum

Top digs on a budget  Winner

For the ultimate trim

J-Hoppers

 Winner

» Location: Osaka & Kyoto » j-hoppers.com

Best Hotel The finest rooms in town  Winner

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Sleek and spacious rooms and hands down the best location in the city. » Location: Namba, Osaka » swissotel-osaka.co.jp

Runner-up: InterContinental Osaka Location: Umeda, Osaka • intercontenental.com/osaka

» Location: Nakatsu, Osaka » ksny.jp/en

Runner-up: Esiotrot Location: Horie, Osaka • esiotrot.jp

Best Record Store The best place for vinyl  Winner

King Kong Records

» Location: Umeda, Osaka » kingkong-music.com

Runner-up: Time Bomb Records Location: Shinsaibashi, Osaka • timebomb.co.jp

Best Art Gallery

Best Vintage Clothing Store

The gallery space that consistently inspires

Top spot for vintage fashion

The National Museum of Art, Osaka  Winner

» Location: Nakanoshima, Osaka » nmao.go.jp/en

Runner-up: The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto Location: Higashiyama, Kyoto • momak.go.jp/English

Best Museum If you only go to one museum in Kansai...  Winner

Kyoto National Museum

» Location: Higashiyama, Kyoto » kyohaku.go.jp

Runner-up: Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum Location: Ikeda, Osaka • instantramen-museum.jp/en

K Studio New York

Hiroshi at KSNY once cut the hair of Sarah Jessica Parker while working in NYC! Photo: Wikipedia (Wiiii)

Runner-up: Hostel Base Point Location: Namba, Osaka • basepoint-osaka.com

Best Hair Salon

 Winner

Book-off

Better known for its bargain books, this second hand chainstore also has a great selection of used clothes at selected locations. » Location: Namba & Shinsaibashi, Osaka » bookoff.co.jp

Best Bakery Baking the tastiest treats in Kansai  Winner

City Bakery

» Location: Umeda, Osaka » thecitybakery.jp

Runner-up: Westwood Bakers Location: Minamihorie, Osaka • westwoodbakers.com

Best Imported Groceries Store Most reliable spot for a fix of tastes of back home  Winner

Costco

Stocking almost every grocery item you could ever want. » Location: Amagasaki, Kyoto Yawata,

Kobe, Izumi-chuo » costco.co.jp/p/?lang=en

Runner-up: Green Pepe Location: Nakazakicho, Osaka • greenpepe3104.com

Best Tattoo Parlor Where to go to get inked  Winner

Chopstick Tattoo

» Location: Shinsaibashi » Facebook Search: Chopstick Tattoo

Runner-up: Three Tides Location: Minami Horie, Osaka • threetidestattoo.com

Runner-up: Yamaya Location: Several locations • yamaya.jp

Best Dental Clinic Who to trust your teeth to  Winner

Osaka Dental Clinic

Points for having fluent English speakers – Osaka Dental Clinic has your pearly whites covered. » Location: Higashi Umeda, Osaka » osaka-dental-clinic.com

Runner-up: Kono Dental Location: Yodoyabashi, Osaka • kono-dental.com/english

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

25

Feature

Shake Off Winter with the First Blossoms of Spring An ocean of plum blossoms heralds the beginning of spring.

Time to get ready for your first picnic of the year.

Text: Alena Eckelmann • Images: Brad Towle

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Travel Tips Kii-Tanabe can be reached by JR Kuroshio Train from Kyoto, ShinOsaka, and Tennoji.

The Tanabe Tourism Office, located right next to Tanabe Station, provides detailed information.

I

n February, plum blossoms are in full bloom at the Kishu Ishigami Tanabe Ume Orchards in Wakayama. More than 300,000 ume trees cover the hillsides that stretch out right to the Pacific Ocean in the distance. The view is breathtaking.

The best way to celebrate this beautiful season at Kansai s top ume-blossom viewing spot is to rug up, get your bento, and join the locals under the trees.

Healthy Plum The ume tree is originally from China. This distinct species (Prunus mume – common names include Chinese plum and Japanese apricot) is related to both the plum and apricot trees.

Although generally referred to as a plum in English, it is more closely related to the apricot.

Ume were introduced to Japan in the 8th century. The white flowers greatly inspired Japanese nobility at the time who eternalized them in poetry and art. There are over 100 poems

28

about ume in the Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves), Japan s oldest poetry collection.

While the blossoms left their imprints on people s artistic minds, the fruits have made it into their bellies. Ume has found its way into Japanese cuisine and in folk medicine for its nutritional and healing properties for centuries.

The most common usage now is umeboshi (ume pickled in salt) and umeshu (ume liquor). In the Japanese way, you start your day with umeboshi, as part of a healthy traditional breakfast, and you finish the day with a sip of sweet umeshu before dinner.

Work with Nature The small village of Ishigami is hidden amongst the rolling hills that surround Tanabe City, located south on the Kii Peninsula. It is a 30-minute drive from the station to reach the settlement of 30 households. Most villagers are ume farmers and

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

A series of ume events take place on weekends throughout February.

A 2.5 hour Charter Taxi/Jumbo Taxi Tour is available.

Visit the Tanabe Tourism Office website for details: » tb-kumano.jp

their lives revolve around the ume orchards.

Ume cultivation here is a 400-year-long tradition. At the beginning of Japan s Edo Period, the local daimyo of the Kishu Tokugawa Clan sought ways to make use of the hillside slopes which were not suited to rice farming and other agricultural purposes. He introduced ume cultivation. Over the centuries, Tanabe s ume farmers have continuously built up their knowledge and skills by working closely with the eco-system at their doorstep.

Ishigami is a prime example of a satoyama; a rural landscape that consists of patches of mixed forest, rice fields and grasslands, streams, and points

Feature

at the border between mountains and flat land. This particular setting and its environmental conditions have been crucial for the successful ume cultivation here.

In 2016, the Kishu Ishigami Tanabe Ume Orchards, part of the Minabe-Tanabe Ume System, were registered as GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System) by the United Nation s Food and Agriculture Organization.

Farmers’ Wisdom Mr. Ishigami, holding the same name as the village, is one of the local farmers and the head of Ishigami Village. He is often found showing visitors around the orchards and explaining the history and specifics of ume cultivation in the area.

The activities of farmers follow the ume season: pruning is done in November and December, followed by soil conditioning in January. When blossoms appear in February and March it is time for pollination by honeybees. Harvesting is done in June and July and processing in August and September.

Green ume, ao ume in Japanese, are picked from the trees

in early June. They are used for producing umeshu. Ripe fruits drop into nets spread out under the trees and are harvested from there, to be pickled and become umeboshi from mid-June to early July.

The cultivation of ume secures the livelihood of villagers and it stimulates the local economy. The Tanabe area has the most ume orchards and it is the number-one ume producer in Japan, accounting for 50 percent of total domestic production, or 44,000 tons annually (2012 data).

Kampai!

Nakata Food is one of about 20 ume processors in the area. Nakata started its business in 1897 and now they are one of the biggest employers in the region.

Visitors to their factory can watch the processing activities from a walkway while a guide explains the details.

At their large showroom you can sample umeboshi and umeshu to your liking. The impressive line-up of umeshu bottles is too tempting to not try at least one or two shots. Visitors ought to come here by taxi to fully enjoy sampling!

If you do not have a chance to visit Nakata, then Kishu Umeshu de Kampai, located in short walking distance from KiiTanabe Station, is the place to go. Set up three years ago, this shop displays a great selection of local brands.

Two tables in the middle of the shop are crammed full with umeshu bottles – another chance to taste your way to umeshu paradise. If you like what you drink, then why not take some bottles home? Foreign visitors can shop tax-free.

The locals love their umeshu so much that, in 2014, they issued the Umeshu Kampai Ordinance. It rules that the first toast at official events in Tanabe must be done with umeshu.

This promptly inspired a toasting event at Tanabe s Ogigahama Beach where an assembled crowd of 866 people kampai-ed with umeshu, a world record that entered the Guinness Book of Records.

As the saying goes: an ume a day, keeps the doctor away.

Whether solid or liquid, is up to you! KS

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Language Exch.

SPANISH/ JAPANESE/ENGLISH. Hello i can teach Spanish if intertested please contact me Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@gmail. com> [3320-2381-2017-01-09] FRENCH AND JAPANESE/ENGLISH/VIETNAMESE EXCHANGE. Bonjour! I am married and to live in France in the future, I want to improve to my French, which is still very poor.. In exchange, I can help you with Japanese (very fluent), English (very fluent) or Vietnamese (native). I d like to meet in any JR station between JR

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Suminodo∼JR Osaka/ Kitashinchi Contact: live-full <shinro_jp@ yahoo.co.jp> [3877-342-2017-01-14] 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> [3660-6373-2017-01-15]

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 &amp; sincere. Long-term faith, commitment. Intelligence, social, love in nature, zoo, med to get along smoothly. Good mind&amp; heart. I won t cheat, or abuse you. Not for mone Contact: nobel benzene <speak6up@ yahoo.co.jp> [3231-104-2017-01-03]

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> [2680-5448-2017-01-12]

くびれのある女性、彼女、募集中. 私はイギ リス人で、４０代の男性です。ロマンスを 求めている。二人で楽しいデートをしたい 女性であれば、 どうぞ連絡して下さい。気 が合えば、 デートをしましょう。 まずは、写真 付きのメールで連絡してください。私も写 真をお送りします。楽観的に待っています。

Contact: kyotofun <kyoto_fun@ yahoo.co.jp> [3857-6527-2016-12-29]

LOST IN JAPAN?. Looking for an intelligent and independent woman, I dont care your nationality and age. I m a Japanese guy living in Osaka. If you want something different, mail me. Contact: Aki2016 <littledragoninthesky1@ yahoo.co.jp> [3871-6575-2017-01-06]

FLESHY GIRLFRIEND. Hi there.

It s getting cold. I m a handsome white man looking for a fleshy girl to keep me warm. Asian, european, young, middle-aged, married, single, I don t care about these things. Just so long as you re fun-loving and fleshy, I d love to hear from you. Let s enjoy winter! Contact: oddsundaysite <oddsundaysite@yahoo.co.jp> [3861-6547-2016-12-31]

Classifieds

/ JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP you! Contact: kosobai <porubado@yahoo.co.uk>

<Samatkins366@gmail.com> [3827-6491-2017-01-13]

[3866-1439-2017-01-03]

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> [3513-104-2017-01-19]

BRITISH MALE 30 SOMETHING SEEKS JAPANESE FEMALE. Single Brit travelling to kobe and osaka for new year seeks a Japanese female for a drink,chat and maybe some sightseeing. Its my first time in Kansai and would like to have a beer with a nice Japanese lady. I am an easygoing mid 30s gentleman. Hope to hear from you soon. Contact: bruceleesballbag <happylamp@hotmail.co.uk> [3862-5865-2017-01-01]

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 &amp; singing with bands: s Contact: shutommy@yandex.com <shutommy@yandex.com> [3256-6096-2017-01-18]

HAPPY TIMES. Hello. I m looking for a woman who likes things like photography and sightseeing. If we enjoy each other s company then maybe more... I m in my late thirties and I m British. Thank

32

Announcements OSAKA BOOK GROUP'S JANUARY MEETING. Vladimir Nabokov s Signs and Symbols and Pale Fire will be discussed on January 29 at Umeda s Willer Express Cafe, starting at 3pm. Contact: Masanaka <akanasam@yahoo. co.jp> Website: www.facebook. com/groups/OsakaBookGroup/ [3872-337-2017-01-06]

Other

HI THERE. this season japan its more cold, somebody wants to talk iam here, iam man gaijin spanish, english, japanese Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@ gmail.com>

KONOCHIWUA. iam man gaijin seeking girl friend if interested call me Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@gmail.com>

[3854-2381-2016-12-28]

For Sale (2nd-hand) Bicycles & scooters

SIT DOWN INTERVIEW ABOUT LIFE IN JAPAN.. Tired of shallow interactions and noisy atmosphere at the usual gaijin hangouts? I would like have a long-form, face to face interview with individuals. Let s speak candidly, rationally and soberly with no products/services/agendas/religions to push and no axes to grind. Contact: MrOsaka <JustinLHankins@gmail.com> [3876-2068-2017-01-13]

TRAVELLING ALONE TO OSAKA FOR A WEEK IN DEC!. Hi, I m Sam &amp; 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

[3855-2381-2016-12-28]

Contact: gikoreno <gikoreno2@ hotmail.com> Website: kyoto. locanto.jp/ID_1132313305/Touring-Bike-2016-Kona-Sutra-FrameSize-54cm-95-000.html [3875-6585-2017-01-10]

Computers & Tech 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> [3419-1262-2017-01-09]

OSMO MOBILE FOR SALE. New 3 Axis Stabilizer Gymbal...by DJI...for Smartphones...New.. just 1 month of use....in the stores..35.000 yenes..price...27.000 yenes... Contact: basejump <basejump2006@hotmail.com> Website: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=SWxyxpp_TWg [3851-6525-2016-12-26]

TOURING BIKE - 2016 KONA SUTRA (FRAME SIZE: 54CM).

2016 Kona Sutra (54cm frame), purchased new, single owner, had proper maintenance. Total Price: ¥95,000. Includes Brooks saddle, AC LowRider Front Rack, Rear Rack, Shimano clip pedals, 2x Fenders, Kryptonite bike lock, replacement tubes and break pad set. Perfect bike for touring.

Looking for something else?

Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest ads, or to place your own...

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #200 JANUARY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Getting Around

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

INTRODUCTION

The Kansai area covers the prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Mie, and Shiga.

There is so much to explore, so you ll need to prioritize your time wisely. Its main travel hubs are Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, all of which are well connected by high-speed rail networks, including the shinkansen (bullet train).

On regular trains, you can travel between Osaka and Kyoto in about 45 mins, and between Kobe and Osaka in about 30 mins. If you are here on holiday, pick up a convenient travel pass, such as the Kansai Thu Pass (surutto.com) or Kansai One Pass (kansaionepass.com), to avoid having to negotiate the ticket machines. Use a website such as HyperDia (hyperdia.com) to check train times and platforms from your smartphone.

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

OSAKA Hotels and Guesthouses

Kyoto

Hyogo

Shiga

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

Osaka

Nara

Mie

Wakayama

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

Trains and Subways

Airport Transfers

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

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

» Tip: Pick up a Railway Network

map from a major station or Tourist Information Center.

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

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

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 #200 JANUARY 2017 / 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

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Osaka MINAMI

B

Shinmachi Life

MoeJoe

Hearton Hotel

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

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7-ELEVEN

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2

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South

Apple Store

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The Silver Ball Planet

Triangle Park

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Sun Hall Ghost Ultralounge

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North

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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Louis Vuitton

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

Minami Police Station

HigashiShinsaibashi

Bar Jaai

Vanity

Sakaisuji line

Shinmachi Kita Park

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A

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

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Sennichimae line

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Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

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Takashimaya Dept. Store

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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

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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

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Naniwa Ward Office

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MAPS & INFORMATION / A

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