Kansai Scene #204 May 2017

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

MAY 2017 / ISSUE 204

Access all Areas Our Guide to Osaka’s Hippest Neighborhoods PLUS+

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ADVENTURES ON MT. ROKKO

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HOT SPOTS FOR BURGER FIENDS

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KANSAI’S TOP EVENTS & FESTIVALS

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

After some much-awaited warmer days, the spring blossoms have fallen and we have arrived in May. Mt. Rokko hiking recommendations can be found on page 22 for anyone keen to get out and about and make the most of the temperate weather.

Headlining Golden Week in Kansai is the annual Takatsuki Jazz Street – a two-day festival to delight music lovers at over 60 venues surrounding the JR and Hankyu stations at Takatsuki. The remaining two weeks of the fifth annual Kyotographie International Photography Festival is a highlight in Kyoto this month; the event includes 14 separate exhibitions centered around this year s theme: LOVE. Visitors will have the chance to view the works of photographers such as Raphael Dallaporta, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Isabel Muñoz, through the lens of love in beautifully designed environments.

Mid month, we have the Waka Festival at Kishu Toshogu Shrine in Wakayama where, in a unique spectacle of traditional performing arts, tens of thousands of visitors come to commemorate the death of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Then, tings get heated up at month s end in the Hyogo city of Aioi when ambitious rowers and fervent supporters gather for the fiercely competitive dragonboat races at the Aioi Peron Festival. Join the masses on the last Sunday of the month to cheer on the crews of 32 as they battle it out for victory in the Gulf of Aioi. We hope you have a very happy Golden Week and a magnificent May.

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

What’s on Around Kansai Events & Festivals......................................................04 Art ...........................................................................................10 Live Music ..........................................................................13

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

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.

© Jason Haidar

Club ........................................................................................ 18 Cinema................................................................................ 20 Classifieds.........................................................................27 Getting Around / Maps........................................... 30

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ON THE COVER: This month’s cover image was taken by Jason Haidar in Amerikamura

Mountain Escape Take a day outside the city and traipse the trails of Mt. Rokko.

FEATURE Text: Randy Poehlman

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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Osaka by Neighborhood Get to the heart and soul of Japan s spunkiest city with a neighborhood tour of Osaka.

FEATURE Text: Kansai Scene

26 Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Foodspotting Bucket-list burgers to add to your tally of spots to chow down in.

FOOD & DRINK Text: Jason Haidar

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Ancient Horse Racing 賀茂祭 足伏走馬

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Kamo Shrine, Shiga • May 7

TIME: 1pm–5pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

JR Omihachiman Stn, bus to Kamohigashi • kamo-jinjya.or.jp

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The grounds of Kamo-jinja play host to the Kamo festival which features the ancient horse-racing ceremony known as ashifusesome. Both rider and horse are fully decked out in the colorful traditional garb of the Heian period as they dash through the 400m straight courses in the grove of the shrine. The land on which the competition takes place has a long history dating back to the 7th century as the first national pasture to train horses. The shrine also provides a hands-on experience of riding on horseback during the event.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / MAY

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Events

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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:

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

Apr 21 • Toji Temple • Access: 15-min walk from JR Kyoto Stn

Takatsuki Jazz Street 高槻ジャズストリート

JR Takatsuki Station & Surroundings, Osaka • May 3 & 4

Jazz lovers rejoice in the perfect opportunity to indulge in a day of free music. The Takatsuki Jazz Street attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year and is one of the premier music shows in Japan. First held in 1999, this two-day jazz festival features over 800 bands performing at 63 venues; mainly around JR Takatsuki Station and Hankyu Takatsukishi Station. Take the special paradise bus between venues and you might be lucky enough to run into some of the performers.

» Kitano Tenmangu Market:

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

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TIME: 10:30am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR/Hankyu Takatsuki Stn • www.0726.info

Rose Festa 靱公園バラ祭∼くらしとみどりフェスタ2017

Utsubo-Koen, Osaka • May 13 & 14

The Utsubo Park Rose Festival is a hugely popular community festival held when the park is ablaze with roses in full bloom. With free entertainment and lots of fun activities, the Rose Festa welcomes over 30,000 people every year. Enjoy concerts in the rose garden, local cafes, a market along a row of zelkova trees, and guided tours where you can learn all about the roses. There will be folk dances, entertaining games for kids, and more.

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Higobashi / Hommachi Subway Stn, 5-min walk • rosefesta.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI MAY

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Aoi Matsuri 葵祭

Kyoto Imperial Palace, Shimogamo & Kamigamo Shrines • May 15

One of the oldest festivals in Japan, Aoi Matsuri even appears in the Tale of Genji that was written in the 11th century. The captivating parade moves to Kamigamojinja from the Imperial palace via Shimogamo-jinja. It is free to stand and watch or follow along with the parade, but buying tickets for seats is also possible.

TIME: 10:30am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway Marutamachi Stn • kyokanko. or.jp/aoi

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Waka Festival – Commemoration of Shogun Ieyasu 和歌祭

Kishu Toshogu Shrine & Surroundings, Wakayama • May 14

The Waka Festival takes place annually on the second Sunday of May to commemorate the death of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. A lively festival procession happens at Kishu-Toshogu Shrine, built in 1621 by Tokugawa Yorinobu, the 10th child of Ieyasu, and attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. This is a truly unique spectacle that highlights the traditional performing arts of Wakayama. The highlight is a mikoshi (portable shrine) being paraded down 108 steep stone steps by young bearers dressed in traditional clothing from the Warring States Period.

TIME: 11:30am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Wakayama Stn / Nankai Wakayamashi Stn, bus to Gongen-mae • wakamatsuri.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Events MAY

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May 20 & 21: Thai Festa in Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Osaka Castle Family Festival 大阪城ファミリーフェスティバル2017

Osaka Castle Park • May 3–5

The free show will include shamisen performances, a comedy show, rakugo comic storytelling, folk dances, and singing. One of the highlights is the classical Japanese juggling called daikagura.

TIME: 2pm • ADMISSION: Free •

Traditional Japanese performing arts will be on show in front of Osaka Castle. Kagura, a Shinto theatrical art, will be performed from May 3rd to 5th. There will also be a matchlock-gun demonstration on the 3rd and a taiko drumming performance on the 4th.

TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osakajokoen Stn, 15-min walk • osakacastle.net

Thai Festival Osaka タイフェスティバル大阪

Osaka Castle Park • May 20 & 21 Osaka Castle Park will turn into a miniature Thailand for the annual Thai Festival! Spicy food, cultural dances, actionpacked kickboxing tournaments, and a nice mixture of modern and traditional culture will be on display from the Land of Smiles!

TIME: 10am–8pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osakajokoen Stn • thaifestival.net

Wakanagi Concert 和奏伎 演奏会−和に親しむひと ときを−

Creo Osaka East • May 21 Enjoy traditional Japanese music and performing arts.

ACCESS: JR Kyobashi Stn, south exit, 7-min walk • wakanagi.com/activity/ concert/plan.html

The 20th Tour of Japan Sakai Stage ツアーオブジャパン堺ステージ

Daisenryo Kofun (Emperor Nintoku’s Tomb) and Surroundings • May 21 An exciting cycling event where world-class competitors race at one of the largest international road-cycling races!

The start and finish lines are at the entrance of Daisenryo Kofun, the world s largest ancient burial mound.

TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Mozu Stn, 3-min walk • toj-sakai.com

Belgian Beer Weekend Osaka 2017 ベルギービールウィークエンド大 阪2017

Umeda Sky Building • May 24–28 Come and join this open-air beer festival where visitors can indulge in variety of Belgian beer, food, and live music. Only advance tickets are available.

TIME: 4pm–10pm May 24; 2pm–10pm May 25 & 26; 11am–10pm May 27; 11am–9pm May 28 • ADMISSION:

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

¥3,100 including a glass & 11 tokens • ACCESS: JR Osaka Stn / Hankyu Umeda Stn, 9-min walk • belgianbeerweekend. jp/2017/ja/osaka

Kanku Tabihaku – Travel Expo 2017

Valuable antique pieces of samurai-warrior armour are now on display. The items in this large collection used to be showcased in family homes to celebrate the happiness of their young sons.

関空旅博 2017

TIME: 10am–5pm (Closed Wed) •

Kansai International Airport • May 27 & 28

ADMISSION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Koro Stn, 15-min walk • japan-toy-museum.org/Tango-nosekku2017.html

Western Japan's largest air-travel fair. Watch live performances, enjoy international food, and learn about air travel.

TIME: 10am–5pm ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR / Nankai Line, KansaiAirport Stn • kanku-tabihaku.com

Kyoto Showcase of Japanese Traditional Martial Arts 古武道奉納奉告祭

Shiramine-jingu Shrine • May 5 Judo, kendo, swordplay, kusarigama – a sickle with chains and many other martial arts will be on display in front of the altar of Shiramine-jingu.

TIME: 9:30am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Horikawaimadegawa • shiraminejingu.or.jp/ event/budo

Mifune Festival 三船祭

Kurumazaki Shrine & Surroundings • May 21 Spectacular scenes of courtly boating from the early history of Japan will be enacted around Togetsukyo bridge. Elegant courtiers amuse themselves in beautiful boats sailing up and down the river Oi. TIME: 12:30pm–3pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Saga-Arashiyama Stn, 10min walk • kurumazakijinja.or.jp

Hyogo Exhibition of Armour for Boys’ Festival 端午の節句∼江戸から昭和の甲冑 飾り∼

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Infiorata Kobe 2017 インフォラータこうべ2017

Kitano-Zaka & Surroundings • May 3–5 The streets of Kobe will come alive with artworks made with colorful tulip petals. "Infiorata" means "covered with flowers" in Italian. Started in Kobe in 1997 after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, this long-running event is guaranteed to brighten up your day.

TIME: Open all day • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR/Hanshin/Hankyu Sannomiya Stn • infiorata-kobe.net

Western Confectionary Festa 洋菓子フェスタ in Kobe 2017

Daimaru Kobe • May 3–8 At this grand showcase of cakes and pastries, there is a fancycake competition and an exhibition of sugar sculptures. A café featuring special sweets for this event will be open for business.

TIME: 10am–8pm (10am–3pm May 8) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR / Hanshin Line, Motomachi Stn, 3-min walk • kfo. or.jp/yogashi-festa/2016

Shinkaichi Music Street 2017 第17回神戸新開地音楽祭

Minatogawa Park and Surroundings • May 13 & 14 Over 170 bands from various genres including rock, jazz, pop, and classical music will perform on the stages scattered throughout the town. Every year 80,000 visitors come for the tunes, food stall delicacies, and art market.

TIME: 12 Noon–8pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Hankyu/Hanshin Shinkaichi Stn • shinkaichi.or.jp/ongakusai/about

Japan Toy Museum • Until May 28

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Aioi Peron Festival – Dragon Boat Race 相生ペーロン祭

Aioi-Wan, Hyogo • May 28

Every year on the last Sunday of May, things get heated up in the city of Aioi in Hyogo.

Serious rowers, fervent supporters, and laidback bystanders gather on the shores for fiercely competitive rowing races. The name Peron came from Chinese meaning a white dragon. Rigged with a fearsome dragon-like head and decorative patterns, the watercraft is crewed by 32 people including percussionists and a rowing instructor. Take a break from the action to check out the colorful parade where various dance teams show off their moves, and sample treats from the more than 200 food stalls. On the 27th, 5,000 fireworks will liven up the festival in the evening from 7:30pm to 8:50pm.

TIME: 9:30am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Aioi Stn, 20min walk • city.aioi.lg.jp/soshiki/chiikishinko/peron2017.html

Events The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum Open Day 竹中大工道具館入館無料日

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum • May 18 Admission will be free of charge on this day to celebrate International Museum Day. Come and observe numerous exhibits including full-scale models of a tea hut s foundation and a pillar from the Toshodaiji temple at the only museum of carpentry tools in Japan.

TIME: 9:30am–7pm • ADMISSION:

Free • ACCESS: Subway Shin-Kobe Stn, 3-min walk • dougukan.jp

The 47th Kobe Festival 第47回 神戸まつり

The Former Foreign Settlement and Surroundings • May 21 The streets of Kobe will come alive with Brass bands, Japanese folk dance, Samba, baton twirling, stalls of world cuisine and a market all day long!

fireworks provide for an explosive experience. Designated as a significant intangible folk cultural asset, this traditional Japanese fireworks display is unique to Shiga.

TIME: 9pm (postponed to May 5 in case of rain) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Omihachiman Stn, bus to Ueda, 5-min walk • omi8.com/maturi/ shinoda.htm

Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Exhibition 長浜さつき盆栽展

Keiun-Kan • May 27–Jun 11 A large array of potted satsuki trees will be on display. Enjoy the vivid colors of the flowers in a traditional Japanese house with magnificent architecture.

Time: 9:30am–5pm • Admission: ¥500 adults, concessions • Access: JR Nagahama Stn, 3-min walk • kitabiwako.jp/keiunkan

Wakayama Sanada Festival 真田まつり

TIME: 11am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: JR Sannomiya Stn • kobematsuri.com

Nara Uchiwamaki うちわまき

Toshodaiji Temple • May 19 At 3pm hundreds of paper fans shaped like a heart will be thrown from Toshodaiji Temple in the belief that the fans ward off disaster and illness.

TIME: 3pm • ADMISSION: ¥600 adults,

concessions • ACCESS: Kintetsu Nishinokyo Stn, bus to Toshodaiji • toshodaiji.jp/about.html

Shiga Shinoda Hanabi Fireworks 篠田の花火

Shinoda Shrine • May 4 The Shinoda hanabi display is a surprisingly spectacular fireworks show. Different styles including a Niagara Falls-style

Michinoeki Kudoyama and Surroundings • May 4 & 5 A celebration of the samurai clan, Sanada which burst onto the TV drama scene last year.

A performance of matchlock troops will be on the 4th at 10:20am. A parade of samurai in suits of armour will be on the 5th at 1pm.

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Kudoyama Stn, 20min walk • kudoyama-kanko.jp

Chujo-Hime Eshiki, Mask Parade 中将姫会式

Tokushoji Temple May 14 This Buddhist event commemorates a heroine of a tragedy, Princess Chujo. Children wearing Buddhist god masks will parade around the temple grounds at 3pm.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kii-Miyahara Stn, 20-min walk • guruwaka.com/tokushojieshiki

Art

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI Postwar German Posters for Films

Kyotographie International Photography Festival 2017 Kyoto, Various Locations

The fifth annual Kyotographie International Photography Festival is being held at traditional and contemporary venues around the city. This four-week event includes 14 separate exhibitions centered around this year s theme: LOVE. Humanity manifests a range of expressions inspired by feelings we refer to as love, which vary according to our backgrounds and environments. These differences have the potential to cause conflict, morphing love into hate and culminating in violence, murder, and war. In spite of our differences and the risks involved in forming deep connections with others, humans share a common craving for love so vital to our survival that we seek it out perpetually.

Visitors to Kyotographie will be afforded many opportunities to examine and analyze the theme of love through the works of photographers such as Raphael Dallaporta, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Isabel Muñoz, presented in beautiful and creatively designed environments.

Until May 14 • Kyotographie Photography Festival • kyotographie.jp/en

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Postwar German Film Posters Exhibition • Until Jun 11 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm (until 8pm Fri & Sat) • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥430 • ACCESS: Kyoto Stn, bus to Okazaki Koen/Bijutsukan, Heian Jingu-mae stop • TEL: 075-761-4111 • momak.go.jp

2017 Collection Exhibition: Feminine Reflections of Time BB Plaza Museum of Art In the realm of art, nudity never loses its power. The female image has been an essential focus throughout the history of Western painting and remains a key motif to this day. Female nudes have appeared in Japanese art since ancient times, but came under the influence of Western artistic standards and physical ideals beginning in the Meiji era. Japanese creators of erotic art choose to represent the feminine form not only for its carnal aesthetic appeal, but to highlight its spiritual associations as well. This exhibition introduces oil paintings, prints, and sculptures that embody artistic expressions of feminine beauty from the Meiji period through to the present. Also on display are works by Hiroshi Matsumoto, a Kobe-based artist who places equal attention on the physical body and the psychology of the human mind.

Feminine Reflections of Time • Until Jun 18 • OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥400 • ACCESS: Hanshin line, Iwaya Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 078-802-9286 • bbpmuseum.jp

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

YASUI Sotaro ≪Woman with Black-Haire≫ 1924

Isabel Muñoz, Istambul, Turquie, from the Mevleví series, 2008 © Isabel Muñoz

The postwar division of Germany into East and West after WWII came to affect every aspect of life in its territories, including the film industry. As the respective governments and societies of East and West Germany splintered and evolved along separate paths, so did the culture surrounding movies and the way they were advertised. Film production in West Germany experienced a rapid artistic renaissance influenced by the importation of films from the U.S. and Western Europe. In East Germany, however, the film industry came under the control of the Deutsche Film-Aktiengesellschaft (DEFA), the state-owned film studio that remained in control until 1992. These two contrasting histories are reflected in the graphic styles of movie posters created to advertise German films released throughout the Cold War era. This exhibition showcases 85 posters from East and West Germany produced from the late 1950s to 1990 when the country was reunified.

M (1931 / Germany /Director: Fritz Lang) Poster: Wolfgang Schmidt(1966) Deutsches Filminstitut, Frankfurt am Main /Poster Arcive

The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Seiji Fujishiro “Amusement Park of Light” Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan •  Until May 28 Seiji Fujishiro is famous for his otherworldly cut-out artworks, or kiri-e. Fujishiro creates mesmerizing and whimsical imagery by arranging backlit layers of elaborately crafted silhouettes behind glass. As the nuance of these images is lost in 2-D prints, they are best appreciated in person.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Chuo subway line, Osakako Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 050-5542-8600 • osaka-c-t.jp

Buddhist Painting x Landscape Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts •  Until Jun 4 The realm of Buddhist art is teeming with ethereal landscapes portraying motifs such as majestic mountains, serene lotus ponds, and billowing clouds that envelop the Buddha during his ascension to nirvana. This exhibition presents landscapes from the tradition of Japanese Buddhist painting.

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon (except May 1) • ADMISSION: ¥300 • ACCESS: Tennoji & Osaka Abenobashi Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 06-6771-4874 • osaka-art-museum.jp

Kyoto Hisui Sugiura – A Leader of Modern Design Hosomi Museum •  Until Jun 11 The works of Hisui Sugiura, one of Japan s most respected pioneers of graphic design, have been displayed in commercial advertisements since the 1920s.

This exhibition brings together an impressive selection of Sugiura s finest pieces borrowed from the collection kept at the Museum of Art in Ehime.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1,200 • ACCESS: Tozai

subway line, Higashiyama Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 075-752-5555 • emuseum.or.jp

Yes, We Love Cats Any Time!

The Museum of Kyoto •  Until Jun 11 Japan has long held an obsession for all things feline. Cats have been included as main motifs in kabuki plays and ukiyo-e paintings throughout history. On display on the third and fourth floors of the Museum of Kyoto are works exploring the iconic value of cats in Japanese art.

OPEN: 12pm–6pm • CLOSED: Mon (except May 1) • ADMISSION: ¥1,300 • ACCESS: Karasuma subway line, Karasuma Oike Stn, 3-min walk • TEL: 075-222-0888 • bunpaku.or.jp/en

Hyogo Yumeji Romanticism – Kobe Scenes and Travels Abroad Kobe Fashion Museum •  Until Jun 25 Acclaimed poet and painter Yumeji Takehisa created works influenced by his fascination with the exotic atmosphere of Kobe City, where he lived during his youth. Around 200 pieces from his Sketches from the West series are on display, including portraits, painted folding screens, and various original prints.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥500, free for visitors wearing Japanese attire • ACCESS: Rokko Island line, Island Center Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 078-858-0050 • fashionmuseum. or.jp/english

Mitsumasa Anno – Artist of Journeys and Imagination Tamba City Ueno Memorial Art Museum •  Until May 21 Author and painter Mitsumasa Anno s intricately designed town and countryside illustrations are heavily influenced by his travels through Europe and the works of M.C. Escher. Guests are invited to enjoy a selection of watercolors and sketches by this renowned artist.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon (except May 1) • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: JR Kashiwabara Stn, bus to Bijutsukan-mae stop, 1-min walk • TEL: 0795-82-5945 • city. tamba.hyogo.jp/site/bijyutukan

Henri CartierBresson: Decisive Moments Kahitsukan • Kyoto Contemporary Museum of Art Henri CartierBresson (1908– 2004) was a highly influential French photographer active throughout the 20th century. After experimenting with different art forms in his early years, including music, painting, and acting, he pioneered the street-photography movement and became famous for his candid blackand-white shots.

Cartier-Bresson, an army corporal photographer who documented the Nazi occupation and France s subsequent liberation during WWII, had a gift for capturing emotive scenes between historical figures and everyday people. He traveled the world during his career with a Leica 35mm rangefinder camera, which he wrapped in black tape to avoid drawing attention from his subjects, covering events such as the Russian liberation and the death of Mahatma Gandhi. According to Cartier-Bresson, being a successful photographer involved having the skill, timing, and creativity to capture a decisive moment. Kahitsukan invites viewers to observe a selection of some 60 original prints signed by Henri Cartier-Bresson himself.

Henri Cartier-Bresson Exhibition • Until Jun 18 • OPEN: 10am– 5:30pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • ACCESS: Keihan line, Shijo Stn, 3-min walk • TEL: 075-525-1311 • kahitsukan.or.jp

Nara Motohashi Seiichi: Sense of Place Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City •  Until Jul 17 Documentary photographer Seiichi Motohashi strives to portray the wide range of pursuits that form the basis of human society. This exhibition features

over 200 images from Motohashi, including previously unreleased shots and representative photos taken in coal mines, a circus, a slaughterhouse, and other more conventional locations.

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon (except May 1) • ADMISSION: ¥500 • ACCESS: Nara Stn, bus to Wariishi-cho stop, 10-min walk • TEL: 0742-22-9811 • irietaikichi.jp/index.html

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Henri Cartier-Bresson, "Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare, Paris" 1932, Kahitsukan • Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art

Osaka

Art

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Live Music

Glen Matlock

MAY

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Glen Matlock, the original bassist with the Sex Pistols, will be in Kansai for two dates this month. After leaving the Sex Pistols in 1977 (when he was replaced by Sid Vicious), Matlock stayed in music and made guest appearances in the studio with many artists including Ian Hunter (Mott The Hoople), Frank Black (Pixies), and Primal Scream. After signing with Creation Records in 1995, he released his first solo album Who’s He Think He Is When He’s At Home. He has also worked with other groups as a member and a producer. Most recently, he worked with the Japanese girl band The Tomboys. The line up as far as support goes for the Varit gig includes The 50 Kaintenz, Large House Satisfaction, and The Tomboys. The Osaka gig at Janus includes King Brothers, The Tomboys, and The Mad Gentles.

May / Jun

Glen Matlock Sex Pistols guitarists with friends

May 8

Liima

Finnish four-piece indie band Conpass, Osaka • Indie • 7:30pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-6243-1666

Treat

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Funk • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥11,000/¥12,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

All Time Low

Triceratops

May 23

May 26

American four-piece rock band

Japanese rock band s 20th anniversary tour

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,800 • TEL: 0570-200-888

May 18

May 13

Swedish heavy-metal band since 1983

James Arthur

Varit, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 078-392-6650

Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

May 24

Onmyo-Za

Michael Franti & Spearhead

British talent-show-winning singer-songwriter Big Cat, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥7,800 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

May 18

1999 from Osaka Namba Hatch, Osaka • Metal • 6pm • ¥6,000/¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

Koda Kumi May 13 & 14 Japanese pop and R&B singer Orix Theater, Osaka • R&B • May 13 6pm; May 14 4pm • ¥8,600 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

13

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Post rock • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Janus, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 06-6214-7255

May 13

MAY

Original Sex Pistols Bassist May 8 • Janus, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 06-6214-7255 May 13 • Varit, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 078-392-6650

May 17

Rock & Pop

&

the pillows

US singer-songwriter-guitarist and band Shangri-La, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 7:30pm • ¥5,500/¥6,500 • TEL: 0570200-888

Tortoise

American post-rock band formed in Chicago in 1990

Witch’s Shot, Vep Halen and more May 28 Mixed AOR and hard rock bands Foot, Rock, & Beers, Osaka • Rock • 3:30pm • ¥1,500/¥2,000 • TEL: 06-62821120

May 24

Wouter Hamel

Japanese alternative-rock trio

May 30

Muse, Kyoto • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,320/¥4,860 • TEL: 075-223-0389

Dutch pop singer-songwriter

Tower Of Power

May 19

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,950 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

May 25 & 26 American funk-R&B band performing since 1968

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

Pretty Maids May 31

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

13

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

JUN

14 DragonForce London-based British power-metal band DragonForce was formed in 1999 and is well-known for mixing melodic vocals, incredibly fast lead guitar, and electronic sounds. Originally named DragonHeart and put together by guitarists Herman Li and Sam Totman (both still with the band today), the band released its debut independent album in 2003, Valley Of The Damned.

The band s latest album is called Reaching Into Infinity and, on this release, bassist Frédéric Leclercq said, We wanted to deliver nothing but the best playing fast was something we were good at, so this time I wanted to bring even more diversity in to our music. The album is to be released this month. Japanese audiences are likely to know of DragonForce because of their collaborations with the Japanese idol metal trio Baby Metal.

British power-metal band formed 1999 • Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

14

KT Tunstall

Minami Kizuki

Jun 13

Jun 10

Scottish singer-songwriter, Kate Victoria Tunstall, was born in June 1975 in Edinburgh. Her commercial breakthrough came in 2004 when appearing on the British music television show Jools Holland. The album Eye To The Telescope was then released and charted at number three in the UK album charts, and went on to sell over 4.5 million copies worldwide. As well as being a vocalist and songwriter Tunstall also plays guitar, piano, drums, and flute. Her latest album, KIN, is her fifth from the studio and was released last year.

On the album she says, The truth is, I ve finally made peace with being a pop songwriter. This record was very much embracing my dharma as an artist which is to write positive songs that have muscle, but also show their vulnerability. Rolling Stone magazine call the album a power-pop gem.

The album peaked at number seven on the UK album charts and also features a duet with British singersongwriter James Bray.

Minami Kizuki is a Japanese pop and shima-uta singer born in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima.

Shima-uta is a genre of folk singing from the Amami Islands, made famous in the 2000s by singers Hajime Chitose and Atari Kosuke. Minami Kizuki was discovered in 2006 while singing in a park, and she made her public debut as an 18 year old in 2007. She has also sung TV themes, acted last year in the Tokyo musical Tanuki Goten, and appears on a monthly Tokyo radio show called Emotional Beat, Music Airport (since 2014). Her latest album release was last November s Gekka Bijin. The singer also plays the piano, and the Okinawan instrument the sanshin, and is well-known as a popular TV karaoke champion.

Scottish singer-songwriter and musician • Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Japanese Shima-uta pop singer • Namba Hatch, Osaka • Folk-pop • 5pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • TEL: 0570200-888

Live Music Danish hard-rock band formed 1981 Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

a flood of circle Jun 2

American Football Jun 9 Reformed US indie-rock four piece Akaso Umeda Trad, Osaka • Indie • 7pm • ¥6,300 • TEL: 06-7897-2450

Japanese experimental-rock trio

Sugizo & Inoran

Akaso Umeda Trad, Osaka • Experimental • 7pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 06-7897-2450

Jun 9

You Blew It

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,800/¥8,300 • TEL: 06-6344-3326

Jun 2 American Emo quintet from Florida formed 2009 Conpass, Osaka • Emo • 7pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6243-1666

Polysics Jun 3 Japanese new-wave rock band from Tokyo Taku Taku, Kyoto • New Wave • 6pm • ¥4,000 • TEL: 075-351-1321

miwa Jun 3 & 4 Japanese singer-songwriter Osaka jo Hall, Osaka • Singersongwriter • May 3 6pm; May 4 3pm • ¥10,800 • TEL: 0570-200-888

X Japan and Lunacy guitarists

Minami Kizuki Jun 10 Japanese Shima-uta and pop vocalist Namba Hatch, Osaka • Folk Pop • 5pm • ¥5,500/¥6,000 • TEL: 0570-200-888

lecca Japanese J-reggae vocalist

Jun 8 Akaso Umeda Trad, Osaka • J-reggae • 7pm • ¥6,400 • TEL: 06-7897-2450

Jun 10 Zepp Bayside, Osaka • J-reggae • 6pm • ¥6,400 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Creature Creature Jun 10

Reno Jun 6

Japanese rock band featuring vocalist Morrie

Japanese rock guitarist

Muse, Osaka • Rock • 5pm • ¥6,500/¥7,000 • TEL: 06-6245-5389

Rock Town, Osaka • Rock • 6pm • ¥4,800 • TEL: 06-6632-6900

PUSHIM

Jesse Harris Grammy Award-winning American singer-songwriter

Jun 6 Club Quattro, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 7pm • ¥5,000/¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Jun 9Taku Taku, Kyoto • 7pm • ¥5,000/¥6,000 • TEL: 075-351-1321

Jun 11 Japanese-Korean reggae artist Paku Pushim Zepp Bayside, Osaka • Reggae • 5:30pm • ¥6,480/¥10,800 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

KT Tunstall Jun 13 Scottish singer-songwriter and musician Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

INTERVIEW

Pretty Maids Formed in 1981 by friends Ken Hammer and Ronnie Atkins in Horsens, Denmark, Pretty Maids was originally a cover band. The members soon started writing their own material, however, which lead to a deal with the English record label Bullet Records. Today, Ronnie Atkins still leads the band and Ken Hammer still wields his axe, and they have a new album out. KS spoke with front-man Ronnie Atkins about the album, the trip to Japan, and the future.

point. We also had some ideas that we ve done in either 2014 or 2015 that ended up on Kingmaker. But the majority of the album was written in January 2016 and we entered the studio on Feb 1, 2016.

Since the early 90s, Pretty Maids has had a very strong fan base in Japan. How do you feel about Japan?

Kingmaker is a milestone recording for Pretty Maids in that it’s your 15th studio album. With a career already spanning more than three decades, what does the future hold for the band?

MAY

31

The 2014 album Louder Than Ever featured some re-recorded previously released tracks. Does this mean latest album, {Kingmaker}, been a long time in the making?

It s hard to say what the future holds for PM. But I definitely don t see any stop signs yet. We re still having fun and enjoying what we do. As long as we have a fan base that still wants to buy our music or come to the shows then it s all worth it. The fan base has been increasing the last couple of years; a lot of younger fans have checked in, which tells me that we must somehow still be kind of relevant in what we do and that s a nice feeling. For the remainder of 2017, we ll still be out promoting Kingmaker and 2018 will also see the band on the road.

Well, Kingmaker was actually more or less written just prior to going in the studio. The thing is that you write more or less all the time and record bits and pieces that you might use at some later

Danish hard-rock band formed 1981 • Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Well, Japan definitely has a very special place in our hearts. We ve had a strong Japanese following ever since the 80s and we ve toured Japan so many times since 1990. I always enjoy going there since the people are so friendly and the fans are very dedicated.

Besides that, I m totally in love with Japanese food. So yes, to me, Japan is something very special, always was, and always will be.

Scandal

The Muggles

Japanese four-piece female poprock band

Every Fri & Sat

Jun 13 Muse, Kyoto • Pop-rock • 7pm • ¥4,860 • TEL: 075-223-0389

Jun 15 Varit, Kobe • Pop-rock • 7pm • ¥4,860 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

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

Jun 6 & 7

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

Sinne Eeg

Woodstock Café, Ashiya • Rock and group sounds • Free Admission (¥2,000 for two drinks + snack) • TEL: 079-734-1044

May 24

Jazz & Blues

Danish jazz vocalist and composer Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥5,900/¥6,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

DragonForce

The New Mastersounds

Juju

Jun 14

May 18

May 24 & 25

British power-metal band formed 1999

British four-piece jazz fusion funk band

Japanese jazz and R&B vocalist

Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm • ¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

16

Robert Glasper Experiment

Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Jazz/R&B • 6:30pm • ¥8,888 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

American keyboard player and record producer Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Jazz R&B • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Junko Onishi Jun 8 & 9 Japanese jazz pianist in trio Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz piano • 7:30pm • ¥4,400/¥5,500 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Club

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Stihl No Mori Kyoto Celebrate The Star Festival at a beautiful campsite – Stihl No Mori – in Nantan City, deep in Kyoto. This two-day festival features world-class artists like DJ Shadow from California, Brazilian Drum n Bass producer DJ Marky (pictured), Nathan Fake, Border Community and more. In addition to the various international acts, there will be great Japanese DJs such as DJ Nobu and DJ Ageishi. The closest station to the rave is Sonobe Station on the JR Sanin line. You can take the shuttle bus from Sonobe Station. The site doesn t have any accommodations, so come prepared and don t forget to bring your own tent. For more details, check the website.

MAY

MAY

20 21 &

May 20 (SAT) & 21 (SUN) The Star Festival (Techno/House/Electronica/ Drum’n’Bass/Breaks) • ACTS: Shadow, Marky, Nathan Fake, Zip, Swindle, Peggy Gou, Clap! Clap!, Kassem Mosse, Nobu, Daito Manabe, Ageishi, Fumiya Tanaka + more • OPEN: 8am–5pm • ADMISSION: ¥10,000 (ADV: ¥9,000) • WHERE: Nantan City, Kyoto • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • thestarfestival.com

May 2 (Tue)

3 (Wed/HOLIDAY)

Joule

Lab.Tribe

Umek (Techno) • DJS: Umek, Mika Kitten, Fumi, Nao Okada, Dmitri + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500, FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • clubjoule.com

Weekend Ravers United (Happy Hardcore/UK Hardcore/Bass) • Acts: Shimamura feat. MC Stone, Kan Takahiko, Makoto, Massive feat. MC Leo, Horn + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075-2541228 • labtribe.net

West Harlem Daniel Wang presents Disco! Disco!

Disco! Japan Tour 2017(Disco Dub/ House/Tribal) • DJS: Daniel Wang, Ageishi, Aspara + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,800/1D (W/F: ¥2,500/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 050-1016-0099 • kyotosalsa.com

Stomp Bug Party-Ramza 1st Album ‘Pessim’ Release Party in Osaka (Drum’n’Bass/ Breaks/Dubstep) • ACTS: Ramza, 444capsule, Ena, Yanmah, Anode + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500(ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6245-0889 • club-stomp.com

Vanity Osaka DJ Bl3nd (EDM/Open Format) • DJS: Bl3nd + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: GENTLEMEN: ¥4,000/1D; LADIES: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-3333 • vanity-osaka.com

18

4 (Thu/HOLIDAY) Butterfly Kyoto Maxwell feat.DJ Big Ben (Open Format) • DJS: Big Ben, Danbo, Kazuya • OPEN: 10pm–3am • ADMISSION: GENTLEMEN: ¥1,500/1D, LADIES: ¥700/1D, FOREIGNERS: ¥700/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-211-5025 • butterfly-kyoto.com

Circus TechnoBar Dfloor 2nd anniversary Party ‘Marcel Dettmann Asia Tour 2017 in Osaka’ (Techno/Breaks/Noise) • LIVE: O.N.O a.k.a Machine Live, Agraph, Merzbow • DJ: Marcel Dettmann + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Giraffe Osaka W&W Japan Tour 2017 in Osaka (EDM) • ACTS: W&W + more • OPEN: 7pm1am • ADMISSION: ¥4,000 • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6211-1516 • giraffeosaka.net

Jaai Freeek -Heaven’s Music- (House) • ACTS: Nagisa, Sugimo , Ladi0s , Corombo • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-30373214 • iflyer.tv/ja/Bar-JAAI

Metro Mad Professor meets Direct Impact -Bring Dub to the Country Tour (UK Reggae/Dub) • ACTS: Mad Professor meets Direct Impact + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥3,000/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

5 (Fri/HOLIDAY) Alzar You Are Here feat.Matthew Dear Alzar Fridays (Techno/House) • ACTS: Matthew Dear, Nao Nomura, Junichi Kuwata, Toru Ikemoto, Ashikaga • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • alzar.jp

Joule Blissdom Recordings presents Juno Reactor Japan Tour in Osaka 2017 (Psychedelic Trance/Techno) • ACTS: Juno Reactor, Indigo, Masato.

M, Gr○und, Tossy + more • OPEN:

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500, FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • clubjoule.com

Noon + Cafe Long Long Trip (Art/Noise/Tribal) • DJS: Gr○und, Tz, Kiho • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

Sun Bowl Letus (Techno) • Acts:Yone-ko, Aoki Takamasa, Shingo, Ono, Yoshiki, Kohei • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6213-7077 • sunbowl.jp

6 (Sat) Alzar Nao Nomura presents Alzar Saturdays (Techno/Tech House) • DJS: Isao Sudo, Osakaman, Nao Nomura • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • alzar.jp

Sunflower Grouch Japan Tour in Kobe (Progressive Trance/Goa Trance/Tribal) • LIVE: Grouch, Ogami Double Daisuke • DJS: Koma-san, Hendanshi, Yuta + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-9554981 • iflyer.tv/ja/venue/6970

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Troop Cafe

Noon + Cafe

City Boy Lounge -Fatima YamahaLive Set (House/Techno) • LIVE: Fatima Yamaha + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D, Under 23 YRS: ¥1,500) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

Afternoon Blend (Hip Hop/Funk) • LIVE: Nagan Server×Yasa, Jambo Lacquer, Chakra× O.d.s • DJS: Mighty Mars, Funky Mic + more • OPEN: 5pm–11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

Zakuro Absolute Session feat. Q’hey (Tech House/Techno/House) • DJS: Q’hey, Beatman, Bd, Min-tech a.k.a Osiri • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-3607 • zakuro-osaka.com

12 (Fri)

MAY

West House Crossover Connection Vol.4 (House/Crossover/Tech House) • DJS: Yoshihiro Okino, Nao Nomura, Seiichi Takamatsu, Yoshihiko Tanaka + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-3607 • zakuro-osaka.com

14 (Sun) Nanko Sankaku Koen

Destino feat.Anna Alzar Fridays (Techno/ House) • DJS: Anna, Marvy, Soery, Satoshi Tanaka, Hmen + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • alzar.jp

Daydream (Tech House/Techno/ Progressive House) • DJS: Mika Kitten, Koichi Sato, Dmitri Absinthe + more • OPEN: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free • WHERE: Sumiyoshi, Osaka • TEL: 06-66157795 • iflyer.tv/ja/nanko_sankaku_park

Circus

Route 26 Neo Asian Super Sense presents Spaniol Japan Tour in Osaka (Tribal/Alternative) • LIVE: Aqatuki • DJS: Spaniol, Shhhhh, Gr⃝und, Dnt, Gyoku, Erochemist aka Ikeda Shacho + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Sakai, Osaka • TEL: 072-222-3130 • route26.jp

13 (Sat) Circus Factory#12 feat.Nhk yx (Experimental/ IDM) • ACTS: Nhk yx, Albino Sound + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Metro Stephen O’Malley×Jim O’Rourke×Kuukan Gendai (Drone/Power Ambient) • LIVE: Stephen O’Malley, Jim O’Rourke, Kuukan Gendai • OPEN: 5pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

5

Zakuro

Alzar

Circus presents Marcus Henriksson (Techno) • DJS: Marcus Henriksson, Kihira Naoki + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Club

19 (Fri) Metro Takkyu Ishino in Kyoto Metro (Techno/ House) • DJS: Takkyu Ishino, Sekitova • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

20 (Sat) Alzar Takekiyo Ishimoto & Dan Elliot presents Alzar Saturdays (Techno/ House) • DJS: Takekiyo Ishimoto, Dan Elliot, Kim Galaxy • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • alzar.jp

Circus The first Midi_sai party in 2000 introduced many influential breakcore musicians to Japanese audiences. Over the last 17 years it has hosted some of the most fun and interesting artists from Japan and around the world.

Many of the artists and DJs who have played at Midi_sai parties over the years were reunited at the massive Bangface Weekender 2017 in the UK last March, but now they are back in Japan and ready to party! Luke Vibert (Ninja Tune, Planet Mu) will be joining some of Osaka s best DJs to bring us an amazing night of genre-defying dance music. It s going to be a great start to the end of Golden Week!

5 (FRI/HOLIDAY) Midi_sai presents Luke Vibert New Album “UK Garave Vol. 1.” Release Tour 2017 in Osaka (Breakcore/Breaks/ Jungle/Alternative) • ACTS: Luke Vibert, Ka4u, Gulpepsh, OveNaxx, Maruosa, Distest, Shaka-itchi, Uchinaru Teikoku, Limited Toss, Analog 4 + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com

WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

Metro Connected Underground -Liveliebe Speziell- (Tech House/Deep Tech) • LIVE: Simon Krusell, Joix • DJS: Ryoma Sasaki + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

21 (Sun)

26 (Fri) Alzar One feat. Point G Alzar Fridays (House/ Tech House) • DJS: Yashima, Dmitri, Asaura, IdiotYuuka • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000(ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • alzar.jp

Noon + Cafe

Joule

Dora☆Miho (Avantgarde/ Noise/Art/ Hardcore) • SM SHOW: Dora☆Miho • DJs:Tuttle, Hara + more • OPEN: 7pm-11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500(ADV: ¥2,000) •

Marco Bailey in Club Joule feat.Culture Coating (Techno) • DJS: Marco Bailey, Dk-Baseline, D41, Hiloco aka NeroDoll + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION:

¥2,500 (FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • clubjoule.com

27 (Sat) Exodus Nullzone 10th Anniversary Party Zone 2 (Trance/Psychedelic) • LIVE: Salakavala, Igor Swamp • DJS: Junkichi, Seiji Animaminimal + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6532-9385 • exodus728.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

19

Cinema

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

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

Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: The Great Wall, Ghost in the Shell, Sing, Moana, Lion, Moonlight, Kong: Skull Island, Passengers, La La Land, Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Split • From May 13: Manchester by the Sea • From May 19: Arrival 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: Thomas & Friends: The Great Race, Ghost in the Shell, The LEGO Batman Movie, Hardcore Henry, Kong: Skull Island, Passengers, Sing, Moana, Beauty and the Beast, The Fate of the Furious • From May 6: L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 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: Trainwreck, Perfetti sconosciuti (ITA), The Hollow Crown: The Wars of the Roses, Green Room, Things to Come (L'avenir) (FRA), I, Daniel Blake, The Edge of Seventeen, This Beautiful Fantastic, Author: The JT LeRoy Story • From May 6: Hermitage Revealed • From May 13: The Infiltrator, Mr. Right • From May 20: Lo chiamavano Jeeg Robot (ITA) • From May 27: The Autopsy of Jane Doe Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st and 15th of the month – ¥1,000

Theatre Umeda Now showing: Sacromonte los sabios de la tribu (SPA), La fille inconnue (FRA), Life Animated, Ich und Kaminski (BEL) • From May 6: Taxi (IRN) • From May 13: Manchester by the Sea • From May 20: Dukhtar (PAK)

Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,000 © 2017 Summit Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Osaka

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious, Free Fire • From May 5: Cafe Society, Desierto • From May 6: MET Live Viewing Idomeneo (ITA) • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Personal Shopper • From May 20: Live by Night, MET Live Viewing Eugene Onegin (RUS) • From May 26: The Light Between Oceans 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 Great Wall, Ghost in the Shell, Sing, Moana, Lion, Jackie, Moonlight, Kong: Skull Island, Passengers, La La Land, Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious • From May 5: Cafe Society, Desierto • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Personal Shopper, Split • From May 13: Manchester by the Sea • From May 19: Arrival • From May 26: The Light Between Oceans 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: Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, Lion, The Edge of Seventeen, The Fate of the Furious • From May 6: MET Live Viewing Idomeneo (ITA), L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 • From May 13: Manchester by the Sea • From May 20: Live by Night, MET Live Viewing Eugene Onegin (RUS) Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Deepwater Horizon

Cinem@rt Now showing: Life Animated • From May 20: Lo chiamavano Jeeg Robot (ITA) 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: Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious • From May 6: MET Live Viewing Idomeneo (ITA) • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Split • From May 20: Live by Night, MET Live Viewing Eugene Onegin (RUS) 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: Moonlight, Louder Than Bombs, The Edge of Seventeen, Mon Roi (FRA), Bridge of Spies • From May 6: Ich und Kaminski (BEL), Every Thing Will Be Fine • From May 13: Eye in the Sky • From May 20: Taxi (IRN), La academia de las musas (SPA), Song for Marion • From May 27: Weiner, Freeheld, Personal Shopper (FRA), The Light Between Oceans Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo Now showing: The Great Wall, Ghost in the Shell, Sing, Moana,

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

Lion, Jackie, Moonlight, Kong: Skull Island, Passengers, La La Land, Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious • From May 5: Café Society, Desierto • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Split • From May 13: Manchester by the Sea • From May 19: Arrival 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 Mint Kobe Now showing: Ghost in the Shell, Kong: Skull Island, Passengers, Sing, Moana, La La Land, Beauty and the Beast, Deepwater Horizon, The Fate of the Furious • From May 5: Café Society • From May 12: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, Split • From May 19: Arrival Tel: 078-291-5330 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st and 16th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Now showing: T2 Trainspotting, Captain Fantastic • From May 6: MET Live Viewing Idomeneo (ITA) • From May 13: Free Fire • From May 20: Live by Night, MET Live Viewing Eugene Onegin (RUS) Tel: 078-230-3580 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Osaka’s Coolest Neighborhoods Get off the beaten track and take yourself on an underground tour of Osaka.

Text & Images: Kansai Scene

O

saka is a city of neighborhoods, many of them undiscovered by visitors. If you are a first-time traveler to Osaka, venture beyond the neon lights, kitsch trinket shops, and giant plastic food sculptures of the touristy Dotombori area. Discover Osaka s true character lying in the labyrinthine alleyways and backstreets of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and beyond. Get a true taste of Osaka by mixing with the locals in one of these unique neighborhoods.

Ura-Namba Osaka is known as kui-daore no machi, the town that loves to eat, and there are few places that can compete with the epicurean paradise that is Ura-Namba. Literally meaning back or secret Namba, Ura-Namba is a hidden-away gastro gem alive with the energy and vigour of a younger generation keen to gentrify the neighborhood into the number-one Osaka food hub. Here, you will find various izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), tachinomi (standing bars), gourmet restaurants, and the trendy Torame Yokocho ; a group of restaurants with a large torii at the entrance. Ura-Namba offers the delectable taste of Osaka in a very cool atmosphere, and at very reasonable prices.

ACCESS: Nankai, Kintetsu, or Subway lines, Namba Stn, one-minute walk

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Hozenji-Yokocho Alley Hozenji Yokocho Alley is a stone-paved street offering a multitude of wellestablished Japanese dining options such as the two-Michelin-star kappou (counter-style) restaurant Kigawa .

There is a collection of around 60 small restaurants, izakaya, bars, and eateries in the area behind Hozenji Temple. This location embodies the old world of Naniwa (what the city was called before it became Osaka) and is hidden down the backstreets near Dotombori. The street has been filled with nightlife since the 17th century when the area was a theater district. Hozenji Yokocho Alley is popular with local celebrities such as actors, writers, and artists. Stop by, say a prayer, and splash some water on the moss-covered Fudo-myo statue, known as Mizukake Fudo.

ACCESS: Nankai, Kintetsu, or Subway lines, Namba Stn, 10-minute walk

Amerikamura For clubs and bars, and somewhere to go at any hour of the night, head to Amerikamura (American Village).

Amemura, as it is called, centered around the small and unassuming Sankaku Koen (Triangle Park), has a kind of grittiness to it, making it the perfect location to be Osaka s youth fashion hub. Here you will find a mish-mash of eclectic street fashion, Rasta-style, goth, punk, and skater-style, alongside designer vintage and Japanese urban chic. There are many buy and sell used clothing boutiques, with Kinji and Kilostore in the Bigstep building being great places to start. Amemura is also the place to go for the latest trends in local art and music. Value-adding not only to their businesses but to the culture of the area, some fashion stores

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

directly involve artists and musicians with their enterprise. Yasuhito MJ Morita, who owns Fedup, a store selling strictly hiphop gear, has a small music studio next door which he rents out for recording sessions, or just opens up for artists to freestyle and jam in. Fedup also releases mixed CDs and organises big, outdoor hip-hop parties to promote various artists.

ACCESS: Midosuji Subway line, Shinsaibashi Stn, Exit 7

Orange Street Tachibana-dori, or Orange Street, is a top spot for shopping with sophistication. Formerly a furniture district, this one-kilometer stretch of street is neatly lined with unique, stylish, and up-market clothing and homeware stores. The Orange Street scene really encompasses the entire area around Minami-Horie. Discover stores like Detail, a half home décor, half gift shop, filled with creative designs, and the roomy Café Contempo, which looks like a home-décor emporium but is actually a spacious café. Plantand-gift shop come bar and café, Biotop is a great place to take a pit stop, order a glass of sparkling wine or a tasty pizza, and gather inspiration.

Having a very different mood from the labyrinthine Amemura, Tachibana-dori is far less crowded and more elegant in appearance. The best time of day to go is just after sundown; the night lighting in these sleek and stylish stores adds a special air to the upscale shopping experience.

ACCESS: Yotsubashi Subway line, Yotsubashi Stn, Exit 5, two-minute walk

Feature

Stylish clothing and homeware stores line Orange Street

Bohemian charms in Nakazakicho

Temma

Nakazakicho

Shinsekai

Temma comes to life at dusk, from about 6pm to 9:30pm, when the myriad of authentic Osakan mom-and-pop style restaurants serve their cuisine to locals, salarymen and women, and any tourists that happen to stumble upon this gastronomic gem. In the alleys winding away from JR Temma Station, Beer Belly can be found serving up pints of Osaka s own Minoh craft beer. In the daytime, the Tenjinbashisuji shotengai (covered shopping street) ̶ the longest shopping arcade in Japan ̶ is bustling with boutique shops, second-hand stores, and plenty of local culinary treats.

Nakazakicho is Osaka s bohemian neighborhood which still retains the feel of old Japan with buildings dating back to the Showa era. A short stroll from the hustle and bustle of busy Umeda, Nakazakicho s maze of lanes and secluded, vine-draped cafes provide an atmosphere so quaint, it is hard to believe it is so close to the busiest part of town. Aspiring artists call this area home, which explains its retro charm and proliferation of small, trendy businesses from yoga and tea shops to vintageclothing shops like Green Pepe, Tad, and Petit Bonheur.

Famous for fugu (blowfish) and kushikatsu (meat and vegetables fried on sticks), Shinsekai is not the swankiest part of town but it has been serving up Osaka s famous soul foods for more than 100 years.

Osakans love their B-kyu (literally B-class ) no-frills dining culture, and Shinsekai is the perfect spot to pick up some okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) or takoyaki (octopus balls), or to visit the famed Daruma – one of the original kushikatsu vendors.

The heart of this neighborhood is the Tsutenkaku Tower, built in 1912 as part of a makeover of the area.

ACCESS: JR Loop line, Temma Stn

ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway line, Nakazakicho Stn

Access: Sakaisuji Subway line, Ebisucho Stn, 2-minute walk

Fukushima

Tsuruhashi

The Fukushima area is where renowned Osakan street artist Grind Pencil has made his commissioned mark at JR Fukushima Station with his Seven Lucky Gods graffiti work. The colourful, energetic vibe of his artwork distinctly matches this bustling café, bar, and restaurant-filled area. Fukushima is teeming with izakayas, tachinomi, and mouth-watering eateries; the perfect spot for a night of exploration and chatting with friendly locals. An after-dinner stroll toward Dojima river is recommended to admire the glowing river lights and modern Osaka skyline.

Known as the home of Korean Town, Tsuruhashi comprises around 800 shops in six marketplaces and shopping streets.

The maze-like avenues of Tsuruhashi date back to the end of WWII. Around the station and under the train tracks, there is a labyrinth of market stalls selling imported items, K-pop merchandise, and of course, delicious Korean food, all for reasonable prices. There are many yakiniku (BBQ meat) restaurants and specialty stores such as Korean grocery stores. Chefs from Kyoto and Osaka gather early in the morning to get the finest fresh seafood from the wholesale fish market.

ACCESS: JR Loop line, Fukushima Stn

Access: Kintetsu line, Tsuruhashi Stn

Soul food in Shinsekai

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FEATURE

Take a hike!

Take your cue from the crisp, fresh air – head outside and explore.

Text & Images: Randy Poehlman

T

here s no better way to explore the Rokko mountain range than on your own two feet.

Perched between Osaka and Kobe and standing just over 930 meters above sea level, Mt. Rokko provides one of the most renowned hiking experiences in Kansai. There is an epic panoramic view of Osaka Bay from the top of Mt. Rokko, and an exquisite night view over the city of Kobe. The best part is that you can enjoy mountain hiking and hot springs all in one day; Mount Rokko is close to Arima Onsen, perfect for a post-hike soak.

Reaching the summit ridge of Mt. Rokko from Hankyu Ashiyagawa Station should take about four to ďŹ ve hours for the average hiker. From the station,

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you will follow the small river towards the forested foothills where you will twist along a variety of sizable homes and gain a small amount of initial altitude. The trailhead is essentially a shrine that sits next to a waterfall and the trail quickly corkscrews up over rocks. From the train station to the initial section of the trail is roughly 1km and the route is fairly popular, especially on weekends.

The climb is rocky, but there are chains and ropes along some sections to make things a little safer and easier. The hike is slightly more challenging than other day hikes around Kansai, but the views and wildlife make it well worthwhile. Halfway up, around 450m of elevation and about 1.5 hours into the hike, there is a section of rocks

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

next to the power line that is a common place to stop for lunch.

Many seasoned Japanese day hikers bring their gas stoves and cook hot meals at this particular spot. It is also extremely common to see inoshishi (wild hogs) around this common rest spot (attracted by the aroma of freshly cooked noodles or bento lunches). It is important, however, to be cautious around the inoshishi, and also to refrain from feeding them, as they tend to be a bit aggressive. There are also wild mountain cats that often appear at the base of the mountain stretch, and also around this mid-way point.

The view from the side of the Rokko mountain range is of Kobe City, sandwiched between the mountains and the ocean.

There are stunning panoramic

Feature Useful Japanese Useful Kanji to navigate trails and maps for this hiking experience: Mount Rokko ( 六甲山) Mount Maya ( 摩耶山) Arima Onsen (有馬温泉 ) Ashiyagawa Station ( 芦屋川駅 ) Takarazuka ( 宝塚市)

views at various points along the trail. As the elevation increases, some of the trails run along the fairways of a golf course, so look out for errant golf balls along this particular stretch of the hike. At about 800 meters of elevation, and roughly three hours into the hike, the forested trail opens out into a wide plain with gently rolling hills. This spot marks another wonderful opportunity to stretch out and have a rest.

The trail from the end of this mountain plain to the top of Mt. Rokko is covered with a fair amount of bamboo grass.

The summit ridge of Mt. Rokko, running from the peak of Mt. Maya to the peak of Mt. Rokko, is fairly developed and there are a number of parks, tourist attractions, and even a ropeway and a cable-car station for an easy descent, if you choose this option. Some of the more interesting places to visit along the summit ridge include Rokkosan Pasture – a petting zoo and farm, the QBB cheese factory, and the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden.

There are four main options for the descent of the Mt. Rokko hike. The first and the quickest is the lazy way; the cable-car

option. The views are nice from the Mt. Rokko cable car, the trip is quick, and it costs ¥590 one way. It also brings you back to the foothills of Kobe City.

The second-longest option, which is highly recommended is the onsen option. Arima Onsen is one of the most famous onsen villages in Kansai, and is roughly 5km from the summit of Mt Rokko; over the back of the mountain, and is reached following a major trail. Ashiyagawa to Arima, over Mt. Rokko, is roughly a six to seven-hour hike. The two most prominent public baths in Arima are the gold onsen (kin-no-yu) and the silver onsen (gin-no-yu).

Day visitors can purchase a discounted ticket to visit both onsens on the same day for ¥850; individual tickets are ¥650. The gold onsen features a free outside foot bath, which is usually quite crowded, and claycolored indoor bath, with one bath kept at a piping-hot 44° C. The silver onsen is along a back street and has a smaller indoor bath facility. It is not as popular as the gold version.

The third-longest descent option is to hike down to the summit of Mt. Maya and follow the trail down to Shin-Kobe Station.

This option allows you to arrive in the middle of Kobe City and offers a very convenient exit to a lovely day in the mountains.

If you take this descent option, you can enjoy nice views from the Nunobiki Herb Garden and the Nunobiki Waterfall before reaching the station. It should take you roughly eight hours from Ashiyagawa Station to the summit of Mt. Rokko and Mt. Maya down to Shin-Kobe Station.

The longest descent option is to extend your hike and enjoy even more trail on your way to the city of Takarazuka. The initial part of the trail is along the mountain road. This option is about 15km from the summit of Mt. Rokko to Takarazuka Station. It is a popular descent option for trail runners because it pushes the hike to roughly 22km in total, with the majority of climbing in the first 7km.

This option should take roughly 10 hours of hiking.

Any way you choose to return from your Mt. Rokko adventure will provide you with a wonderful day out, some stunning photographs, and a few stories to share too. KS

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Food & Drink

/ GREAT PLACES TO EAT

FOODSPOTTING

Check out these three spots sure to meet any burger connoisseur s high standards.

Text & Images: Jason Haidar

Craft Burger

Any’s Burger

Critters Burger

Craft Burger was voted the number-one spot to grab a burger in Kansai by you the readers in the 2016 KS Readers Choice Awards! Run by a friendly Aussie ex-pat and his wife, Craft Burger offers a delicious selection of burgers of which the patties, buns, and all their sauces are handmade with the freshest ingredients.

For meat lovers looking for a burger with a twist, the gorgonzola burger or Swiss mushroom are great choices. All burgers come with thick, juicy patties and your choice of onion rings or potatoes as a side. Not in the mood for beef? No problem. Craft Burger can grill up mouthwatering salmon, chicken, and vegetarian tofu-steak burgers as well. One of the hottest items on the menu is their teriyaki chicken burger topped with pineapple, cabbage, and a delicious sauce. Best of all, each burger on the menu comes with a suggested Minoh beer pairing to help wash it all down and complement the flavors. All burgers come in regular and petite sizes; just be sure to save room for their tasty salted-caramel waffle shake.

This tiny burger joint is like stepping back in time to a 50 s/60 s-era diner but with a Japanese twist, right in the center of Osaka! The giant waitress holding a cartoonishly large burger sign makes it impossible to miss. Chevy rims hanging on the wall, posters of pin-up girls, and even an old-school pinball machine hanging over the counter show the owner s love for retro style and gives it a unique, authentic charm. The colorful character of the decor is matched only by the delicious burgers; one of the favorites is the Bacon Egg Burger, which comes with a thick slice of bacon on top of a tender beef patty, with a slightly scrambled egg that you usually find atop your katsudon dish. If you are looking for something truly unique, try the curry burger, which, as you might guess, is covered with a delicious curry sauce. Lunch sets come with a drink and potatoes for an extra ¥400.

A staple on the Osaka burger scene for several years, Critters Burger remains one of the top spots for locals looking to scratch their itch for a hunk of beef. Located in a trendy area of Nishishinsaibashi, this burger joint seats around 20 people. Tip: take advantage of the gorgeous spring weather and grab the table outside so you can enjoy your burger while people watching and chatting with passers by. All the classic burgers are on the menu plus many original gourmet styles which are sure to tantalize your taste buds, including the self-titled Critters Burger; an all-beef patty topped with egg, avocado, and pineapple.

We recommend the mozzarella mushroom burger – a succulent beef patty covered in melted mozzarella cheese and grilled mushrooms with a piece of bacon thrown on top for good meaty measure, all on a perfectly toasted bun. If you are in the mood to indulge, treat yourself to one of their classic milkshakes; served in a tall, cold glass, these creamy delights are some of the best in Osaka and pair nicely with any burger on the menu.

OPEN: 11:30am–10:30pm (L.O.10pm); CLOSED: Mon • Price RANGE: ¥600–¥1,500 • ACCESS: Yotsubashi Subway Stn, Exit 3, 2-min walk • TEL: 06-6556-6682 • craftburger.jp

OPEN: 11am–9:30pm; CLOSED: No fixed day • Price RANGE: ¥1,000–¥2,000 • ACCESS: Tanimachi-6-Chome Subway Stn, Exit 3, 2-min walk • TEL: 06-6768-3307 • TABELOG: Enizubaga (ANY’s BURGER)

OPEN: 11:30am–9:30pm • Price RANGE: ¥1,000–¥2,000 (L.O.10:30pm) • ACCESS: Shinsaibashi Subway Stn, Exit 7, 4-min walk

Need more dining options?

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

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP / fee, schedule and location then students will directly contact you!

Available for : English, Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Burmese and Arabic Contact: hell-sensei <contact@hello-sensei.com> Website: hello-sensei.com/en/sensei [3947-1905-2017-05-02]

COMMERCIAL Jobs Education

SATURDAY ENGLISH TEACHER. 12,500 yen per day. Time: 9:45~14:00 About 3 hours of teaching time & 1 hour of nonteaching time. We are located in Hirakata City. Looking for a native English teacher to teach kindergarten age students on Saturdays.

Please send your resume with a recent photo to: employment. application.osaka@gmail.com Contact: Employment application <employment.application.osaka@ gmail.com> Website: www.trinitymirai.com [4051-5812-2017-05-08]

FULL TIME ENGLISH TEACHER. Seeking friendly, cheerful and responsible English teacher in Nishinomiya, Hyogo. Must love working with children. 5 days a week; Tue-Sat 40 hours/wk if interested pls state your expacted salary and send your resume plus a recent pictue of yourself to eigoinnishinomiya@yahoo.co.jp -cheers, KAZUE Contact: eigoinnishinomiya <eigoinnishinomiya@ yahoo.co.jp>

TEACHERS WANTED. School in Ashiya/Okamoto is looking for FT/Semi-FT/PT English, French, Italian,Korean & Chinese native teachers with valid visa ASAP. University diploma preferable.

Payment: ¥2700-¥3000 per hour + transportation for PT. Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: ashiyaplus@ hotmail.co.jp Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp>

[4050-6636-2017-05-05]

[4062-252-2017-05-20]

CES CORPORATE LANGUAGE CLASSES. 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. ¥3,500-4,000 p/hr.

Regular classes are 3-12 months in length. Please email CV and Availability: mark@cesjapan. co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@ cesjapan.co.jp>

General

[3933-77-2017-07-18]

ENG TEACHER FOR NURSERY SCHOOL IN KAKOGAWA HYOGO. Nursery school in Kakogawa Hyogo is looking for a friendly and reliable English teacher for Thursdays 10-12 starting in May! Payment is on the last Thursday of each month and in cash! Great Pay for the right person! MUST live between Sannomiya - Himeji and possess a valid visa! For more call 090-9117-3901. Contact: James Wen <yargow@hotmail.com> [4054-1243-2017-05-09]

PART-TIME PRIVATE TEACHING JOBS IN ALL KANSAI AREA. Looking for language students?

Have you already registered on hello-sensei ? Pick your lesson

TOUR LEADERS KYOTO/ OSAKA - PART TIME, CASUAL & FT. We are seeking part time/casual tour leaders for our city area tours in Kyoto. Applicants from nearby cities including Osaka are welcome. Tours run with maximum 12 customers, on bicycles in the morning, and walking tours in the afternoon and evening. We also have cultural private tours.

Contact for details. Contact: Venture <kyoto@ventureea. com> Website: www.ventureea. com/news_urbanadventures.html

Classes & Events Events OSAKA YMCA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL FESTIVAL. Osaka YMCA International School will hold its annual fun-filled school Festival!

Lots of Food stalls and kids fun games! All welcome! Event will be held on May 20 from 11:00 to 16:00 at the School Campus.

6-7-34, Nakatsu Kita-ku, Osaka 531-0071. For more details, e-mail us at general-inquiry@oyis.org Contact: Osaka YMCA International School <yukari-hinode@ oyis.org> Website: www.oyis.org [4039-6718-2017-04-29]

FREE ABACUS CLASS FOR FOREIGNERS FREE ABACUS CLASS. FOR FOREIGNERS OFFERED BY O.C.C.I. and Osaka Abacus Assoc. to promote int l goodwill. Individualized lessons taught in Japanese or English. Saturdays 10-12 am.

Course material provided for free.

Near Sakaisuji-Hommachi and Kitahama. Call: Moritomo Ken 06-6572-6877 https://sites.google. com/site/ osakasoroban/ Contact: osakasoroban <mm2k-umhr@ asahi-net.or.jp> Website: sites. google.com/site/osakasoroban/

Services Rental Services 38,000YEN/MONTH! ONE ROOM APT JR HYOGO STATION. 7 minutes walk to JR Hyogo station one room type apartment - 20 square meters 38,000 yen/month room has unit kitchen, unit bath with air conditioner, electric range, small fridge, curtains and all lightings. No key money, no sales fees. 1 month refundable deposit required. CALL Katayama 09074846955 Contact: katayama takahito <katayama@ksj.biglobe. ne.jp> [3860-6546-2017-05-15]

COMMUNITY

[4060-2036-2017-05-20]

Announcements

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: wilmalabadnoy429@gmail. com Contact: unforeseenfestival <wilmalabadnoy429@gmail.com> [4058-6500-2017-05-13]

FREE ZEN MEDITATION AND LUNCH TOUR IN KYOTO. Diet Helper Japan is inviting 5-10 guests to participate in a free Zen meditation and lunch program at Daiyouin Temple in Kyoto on Friday, April 7th from 10 am until 1:30 pm. Space is limited on a first come first serve basis. https:// osaka.craigslist.jp/trv/6067602625. html?lang=en&cc=us Contact: diethelperjapan <diethelperjp@gmail.com> Website: osaka.craigslist.jp/trv/6067602625.

Classifieds html?lang=en&cc=us [4040-6719-2017-04-30]

BALL HOCKEY (STREET HOCKEY) IN KOBE SANNOMIYA. Come play ball hockey (street hockey) with us every Tuesday nights outside at the Minato no mori park down Flower road in Sannomiya, Kobe starting at 8 pm until 10 pm. We have extra sticks and play pickup games. Come see and try it! See our Facebook page: Kansai Street Hockey Association Contact: kansaihockey <dave.bouchard@ usherbrooke.ca> Website: kansaihockey.x10.mx/ [4018-6705-2017-05-15]

Other INTERNATIONAL CHARITY FESTIVAL (KGCF) VOLUNTEERS. Volunteers wanted by Kobe Global Charity Festival! Do you have a little time to give to your community? Have fun, make friends and help those in need by becoming a KGCF volunteer. Now planning for the 2017 festival to be held on Sunday 19th November. Please contact us to find out how you can help! Contact: KGCF <estellakgcf@gmail.com> Website: www. kgcf.org [4034-5950-2017-04-24]

GIRLS GARDEN WORK PARTY 4/22 11AM~. Let s make a veggie garden together! ^_~ Come join Girls Garden Work Party on 4/22 11~4pm (Sakurai Stn, Minoh, Hanjo 2-12-20). Please bring gloves & hand shovel to plants edible flower & veggies. Those who join the planting can enjoy the fresh harvest for free! ^^ Come on & bring friends, too Contact: Noriko <risakonoriko@yahoo.co.jp> Website: risakonoriko.wixsite. com/sakuraihouse [4042-6716-2017-05-01]

INTERNATIONAL OUTDOOR CLUB (IOC) KANSAI. Enjoy the outdoors (hiking, cycling, climbing, camping, skiing, kayaking etc) with an international group of fun-loving adults. Upcoming events: Sat 1st April Cherry Blossom Hike; 15th April Roldro Hike; 28th April Okinawa Diving and/or Exploring.

More details on website. Welcome to IOC Kansai! Contact: iockansai <edeanjapan@gmail.com> Website: www.iockansai.com/index. php/en-us/ [3997-1879-2017-04-28]

For Sale (2nd-hand) Bicycles & Scooters PAJERO MINI. Pajero Mini with 30,868kilometers . Vehicle is in very good condition Shaken good Till December 2017 blue color.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP / AT transmission,A/C AM/FM/CD stero with USB/iPod input. Asking ¥230,00. Photos on request Contact: racer162 <racer162@ mac.com> [3969-1262-2017-05-17]

Free Giveaways HANAMI GIVEAWAY. Celebrate the cherry blossoms with a special edition of The Eikaiwa Diaries by Rob Kolpak. Japan takes center stage in one of the most original coming of age stories seen in years. FREE download from Apr. 6-8 on Amazon.co.jp. Kampai!

Contact: RBKP <robtron2020@ hotmail.com> Website: www. amazon.co.jp/dp/B00AVE3DX6 [4048-6724-2017-05-04]

Home & Kitchen SULTAN HUGLO SEMI DOUBLE MATTRESS FROM IKEA. Semi Double Mattress Sultan Hugo from Ikea. Semi double mattress.

Used as a guest bed Excellent condition. Bed frame not included Sultan Hugo mattress from Ikea.

Ready for pick up. Size 200cm by 83cm by 140cm/ 8,000 yen. Price as stated Contact: kansai dweller

<rainbowfishkate@aol.com> [4052-6674-2017-05-08]

IKEA MALM QUEEN SIZE BED FRAME (NO MATTRESS). Malm queen size bed frame high i160cm by 200cm in white stained oak.

Original price 31,990. 2 years old. Excellent condition. Perfect for anyone who enjoys plenty of sleeping space. Comes with lurby slated bed base. No mattress incl. outside measurements 177 x 213 cm Pick up only. 12,000yen Nara Contact: kansai dweller <rainbowfishkate@aol.com> [3987-6674-2017-05-22]

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> [3419-1262-2017-05-09]

Language Exch.

for free! in kyoto, for beginners only. I am a native bilingual.

Contact: SuperHero <philantropy369@gmail.com> [4047-1947-2017-05-03]

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> [3660-6373-2017-05-15]

STAR WARS R2-D2. Hello , I am Richard and I will be coming to Osaka on the 29,30.31 of March I need to have someone help me and my R2 with getting around ,I dont know Osaka very well can you give us a hand? My R2 will be there to do a video and TV AD so on our free time we will go around site seeing can you help us Contact: Richard Napier <r2d2japan@yahoo.com> Website: r2d2japan.com [4014-6701-2017-05-12]

Classifieds Friendship 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> [2680-5448-2017-05-12]

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> [3256-6096-2017-05-23]

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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.

30

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 #204 MAY 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

1

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Elmers Green Cafe

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Osaka MINAMI

B

Shinmachi Life

MoeJoe

Hearton Hotel

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Mizuho Bank Nagahori dori

Nishiohashi

7-ELEVEN

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Yotsubashi line

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2

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South

Apple Store

Joule

Moonshine

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Daimaru Dept.

The Silver Ball Planet

Triangle Park

Moon Tower

Dotonbori

OPA

Sun Hall Ghost Ultralounge

Naniw

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MinamiHorie

Banco

Nest Hotel

GAP

Uniqlo

Daimaru Dept.

North

Nikko Hotel

EXODUS

Covent Garden

Tokyu Hands

1

Hearton Hotel

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Kitahorie Hospital

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Midosuji line

TABIJI Kitchen

The Westside

D

Louis Vuitton

Shinsaibashi

2

3

bi-grace nail Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Toyoko Inn

KitaHorie

D & Dept.

Namba Shrine

Yotsubashi

1

C

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

Namba

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Motomachi

Toho Cinemas Namba annex

Toho Cinemas Namba

Visitors Information Center

Hotel Ichiei

Nipponbashi sta.

Sennichimae line

Little Long Beach

Inari 5

Namba Sta.

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Namba Washington Hotel

4

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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

32

Kuromon Market

Sakaisuji

Namba Hatch

B

Naniwa Ward Office

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #204 MAY 2017 / kansaiscene.com

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Kyoto

MAPS & INFORMATION / A

B

C

D

Club Metro

1

1 Heian Shrine

Kiya Cho

Aeon Shopping Mall

The Ritz Carlton

Irish Pub Gnome

Nijo-dori

Higashi Oji - dori

Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto

Tozai Subway Line Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

Pig & Whistle

HUB

Sanjokeihan

Sanjo

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Movix Kyoto Mina

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Kyoto Tourist Information Center

Kawaramachi Marui

Yamatoji-dori

Gypsy

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Fuji Daimaru

Keihan Line

Kyoto Bal

OPA

Hankyu Line

Sanjo

Gion s hijo

Kawaramachi-dori

Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

Kawara Machi

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Higashiyama

Wakamatsu-dori

Butterfly Kitsune Hotel Vista Kyoto Premio Kyoto Maruzen Junkudo

Jomo Gas

Tourist Information Center

Takashimaya

Hanamikoji-dori

Kyoto Asahi Kaikan

Gear

4

Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa

Pontocho

3

Oike-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

Gokomachi-dori

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National Museum of Modern Art

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Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art 2

Miyako Messe

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Kyoto City Hall

Okazaki Park

Tsutaya Books

Tatsumi Bridge

Gion

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Yasaka Jinja

Maruyama Park

Apa Hotel

Minami-za Theatre

4

Genkoin

Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art

The Gael Irish Pub

Ryoshoin

Kacho-michi

5

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Teramachi Area

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Kaosan Kyoto

Kenninji

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Kyoto Municipal Museum of School History

Bakpak kyoto hostel

Ebisu Shrine

Nawa Clinic

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KamibentenCho

The world's smallest Ukiyoe museum

6

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A

B

Higashiyama Ward Office

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/ MAPS & INFORMATION A

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C

Kitano Museum

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Kitanoseiryu Shrine

Hotel Piena Kobe

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