Kansai Scene #215 April 2018

FREE MONTHLY GUIDE COVERING OSAKA • KYOTO • HYOGO • NARA • WAKAYAMA • SHIGA

APR 2018 / ISSUE 215

Spring Road Trips Get a set of wheels and get off the tourist trail

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THE BEAUTY AND TRADITIONS OF TOYAMA

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KANSAI’S BEST OUTDOOR MARKETS

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DELECTABLE DINING IN NAKAZAKICHO INCLUDING

FIND OUT WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Kansai Scene provides monthly English articles, information and listings for visitors and residents of the Kansai area.

Publisher.......................................................Daniel Lee Managing Editor..........................Celia Polkinghorne Editor.........................................................Jason Haidar Production Manager............................... Misa Matsui Production Assistant......................... Miyoko Morita Accounts Manager..................................Michiko Lee Art.........................................................Peggy Holsclaw Cinema.................................................. Miyoko Morita Event & Festival.....................................Tomoko Ishii Live Music.............................................Phillip Jackson Club........................................................Saiko Fujiwara

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

Events & Festivals.......................................................10 Art ........................................................................................... 16 Live Music ......................................................................... 19 Club ........................................................................................24 Cinema.................................................................................26 Classifieds.........................................................................27 Getting Around / Maps............................................29

ON THE COVER: This month’s cover image is of Shoryoe – the memorial service for Prince Shotoku at Shitennoji Temple, Osaka.

Japan in a Van

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Get out of town and celebrate the arrival of spring with a campervanning adventure.

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

Image courtesy of Shitennoji Temple

About Kansai Scene

While it felt like it may never come, spring is finally here, and what better way to make the most of the season than to take a road trip to explore another prefecture? Our writers Randy Poehlman and Jason Haidar have been driving around the Chugoku region (p 04) and Toyama Prefecture (p 08) respectively, and have put together some enticing recommended itineraries. If you re keen to stay local this spring, how about heading to one of Kansai s unique outdoor markets? Brooke Larsen is in the know and brings us all the details of Kansai s best markets on page 6. If you re looking for a quaint spot for coffee and cake or a light meal, look no further than the hipster town of Nakazakicho (p 18) – it seems that every time we look, we find another new and interesting cafe or boutique in that trendy retro neighborhood. If you re keen for some festival action this month, check out our events and festivals listings starting on page 10. We hope you enjoy the spring season!

FEATURE Text: Randy Poehlman

Best Markets in Kansai

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Enjoy both the sunshine and shopping at these five outdoor markets.

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.

FEATURE Text: Brooke Larsen

A Trip to Toyama

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Experience the natural beauty and traditional arts and crafts of Toyama Prefecture.

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

TRAVEL Text: Jason Haidar

Foodspotting

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Be charmed by the artistic and retro cafés of Nakazakicho.

FOOD & DRINK Text: Celia Polkinghorne

Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

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FEATURE

Drive Out of Town this Spring Get a taste of van life with a Japanese campervan adventure.

Text & Images: Randy Poehlman

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he majority of visitors to Japan will rely on the country s well-established transportation infrastructure consisting of mostly trains, domestic flights, and highway buses. But truly creating your own adventure requires your own transportation. All the better if you can combine sleeping quarters with a vehicle. Campervans are increasingly popular among tourists to Japan seeking to explore rural areas and develop a deeper connection with the country and its people.

For many, the appeal of going to bed and waking up with

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castles out the window, having barbecues on the beach, and driving to and from all the major sites on your must-see list is too enticing to pass up. If you are traveling in Japan with your significant other, a few friends, or your family, having your own vehicle is definitely the best way to tailor-make your unique holiday experience.

For our trip, we rented a Conversion Van from Camper x Camper in Osaka and spent a long weekend exploring parts of Hyogo Prefecture as well as the Chugoku Region (Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi prefectures). The

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Van was a Toyota Voxy equipped with extra mattresses and camping equipment. With the back seats folded down, it provided a comfortable sleeping area and a great all-around camping experience.

The main expenses associated with this type of travel are the price of the rental vehicle, gas or petrol for the vehicle, and highway toll charges. However, you can significantly reduce the price of tolls by traveling on public highways and roads, which are toll-free. We decided to do much of our driving along the coastline, following the coast in Tottori, Shimane, and

Feature Yamaguchi, so not only did we largely avoid tolls, but we were able to make various picturesque beachside stops along the way.

Our first stop was Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture. After scoping out the picturesque Himeji Castle, we headed to Kagura no yu, a public hot spring attached to a hotel in the city center where we had a nice long hot soak. Onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths) are ubiquitous all over Japan, which is incredibly handy when traveling in a campervan, which is obviously not equipped with shower facilities (On this trip we also visited Hikawa Bijin Onsen in Shimane Prefecture and Otani Sanso in Yamaguchi Prefecture). After bathing, we found a parking spot adjacent to the lit up Himeji Castle and drifted off to sleep with a beautiful view out the back window.

On Saturday morning, after leaving Himeji, we drove toward the opposite coast in the direction of Tottori. We arrived in the Hiruzen Highlands, which border Okayama Prefecture and Tottori Prefecture, and parked the van at the trailhead of Shimo-Hiruzen. As we climbed toward the top, we could still see a light snow cover higher on the mountain, but the initial climbing was light and easy.

After reaching the summit, having lunch, and descending, we hopped back in the van and continued driving towards the coast. For this trip, I brought my personal tripod camping grill (not included with the rental van) along with some meat and vegetables so we could enjoy sunsets barbecues and spend nights parked on the coast.

Sunday morning, we woke up and drove into Izumo City and spent and an hour or so looking around Izumo Grand Shrine and visiting the city s old train station. The rest of the day was mostly spent driving along the oceanfront through Shimane and much of Yamaguchi before arriving at Motonosumi Inari Shrine. This shrine outside of Nagato City is one of the most spectacular in the country and features a trail of bright red torii gates along the coast. After meandering through the torii gates, you arrive at a rugged open area high above where the waves crash against the rocks.

It is absolutely stunning, and a clear highlight of the Chugoku region. Yamaguchi prefecture is also known for delicious seafood and the coveted fugu (poisonous blowfish) is a delicacy.

The thinly sliced fugu sashimi is available at supermarkets, and fish markets throughout the prefecture and our Sunday night barbecue menu featured fugu Sashimi and Yamaguchi strawberries as well as sazae shellfish (turbo snails) and sweet potatoes, all purchased at a local seafood market.

Another Yamaguchi prefecture attraction is the Akiyoshido Caves in the middle of the prefecture and we spent much of Monday morning touring through these cavernous rock shelters. The cave lighting and audio guide in various languages makes the experience visitor friendly and easy for anyone of any age. The general entrance fee is (¥1,200) and there is an optional (¥300) caving experience where visitors can climb ladders and explore more of

these various rock formations with a provided flashlight. After emerging from the caves, it was time to turn our attention to lunch. Another popular dish in Yamaguchi, is a type of yaki-soba (stirfry noodles) dish cooked on a sizzling traditional Japanese roof tile. So we set the GPS for the top-rated Choshuya Yuda restaurant in Yamaguchi City near Yuda-Onsen for a scrumptious meal and one last hot spring dip.

Monday afternoon and evening was spent making the long journey back to Osaka. Given time constraints and ease of travel, we opted to take the toll road expressway back, with a planned stop in Okayama. From Yamaguchi to Osaka, the tolls were approximately ¥11,000. KS

Van Rental Details To rent a vehicle in Japan, you must be legally allowed to drive in the country, which means having a Japanese driver s license or an international driving permit. If you want to travel outside the major urban areas, be in full control of your movements and travel schedule, enjoy a sense of adventure, and go to places that are otherwise difficult to get to, there is no better transport option than a van.

Our Camper x Camper van was fitted with a bed, bedding (including pillows), privacy curtains, a cooler box, a camping table and two camping chairs, camping lights, a box of plates and cutlery, and bug nets to go over open doors and windows. The Camper x Camper website allows renters to select other options to customize their trip. Communication with staff while booking the van was easy and friendly and could be done in English, which was very convenient. camperxcamper.com

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Feature

Five of Kansai’s Best Outdoor Markets Get outside and explore the handicrafts, fresh produce, and bric-a-brac on offer at these superb local markets.

Text: Brooke Larsen

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hat is this strange sensation in the air? The outside world is no longer gray and gloomy but beautiful and bright. The faces of passersby are no longer covered in masks and scarves, but exposed and exuberant. Flowers are blooming.

The temperature is bearable. It s unsettling, and yet encouraging. People are starting to crawl out of their hibernation and into the light of day. This can only mean one thing...

Spring has arrived! One great way to enjoy Kansai in the warming weather is to head to an

outdoor market, a place where you can enjoy both the sun and shopping. If you have yet to explore any of the many great local markets, we ve rounded up the best around for you to check out this – or any – season.

Ashiharabashi Upmarket The up-and-coming neighborhood of Ashiharabashi is just a short walk from Namba and even has a stop on the JR Osaka Loop Line, but chances are you ve never been. Which is a shame because Ashiharabashi is the monthly setting of Upmarket, one of Osaka s best-kept secrets. Upmarket is a food and craft fair that features everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade jewelry and clothing for sale. The market also has live music and food vendors. How many places in Japan can you get tacos, falafel, pizza, and curry all in one area? This magical market is one of them. It is spread across three adjacent locations – Salt Valley, the walkway outside the south exit of Ashiharabashi Station, and the Times parking lot located at its end. You could easily spend a whole day enjoying all this lively event has to offer. » When: Every 3rd Sunday from 10:30am–4pm (except during the summer,

when the market is held in the slightly cooler evenings from 4:30pm) » Where: 1-7 Naniwahigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka » reedjp.org/up

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Feature Shitennoji Flea Market Osaka might not be known for its traditional culture and temples, yet the city is home to the oldest Buddhist temple in the entire nation – Shitennoji. Just a short walk from teeming Tennoji Station and the crowded Q s Mall is a peaceful park and ancient holy site that comes alive once a month for the Shitennoji Flea Market. A medley of vendors selling stuff ranging from used shoes to vintage hotel log books set up shop on the temple grounds. You can find many strange and wonderful things here, like ceramics, paintings, and clothes, many of them rare and unique. Shintennoji is the perfect place to find a wacky collectible to add to your store of historic Japanese goods, cheap thrift clothing, or to just spend an afternoon experiencing a traditional market atmosphere. » When: The 21st and 22nd of each month from 8:30am–4pm » Where: Shitennoji Temple, 1-11-18 Tennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka

Nakanoshima Food Lover’s Market

Eat Local Kobe Farmers’ Market

You might be wondering how the Nakanoshima neighborhood, home of Osaka s urban oasis located just south of the Umeda business district, could get any more appealing. It s already home to a gorgeous park and waterfront views, not to mention museums and art galleries galore. But what if the opportunity to purchase delectable and healthy local food was added to the mix?

Enter the Food Lover s Market, a monthly celebration of gourmet goods in one of Osaka s most beautiful and beloved areas. Located at the Nakanoshima fishing port, about a 10 minute walk from Awaza Station, the market provides the chance to shop for locally grown food sold by people who are truly passionate about their work. The Food Lover s Market is part of an effort to encourage buying local, so a visit is not only fun but going towards a good cause.

The Eat Local Kobe farmers market takes its title very seriously. This weekly outdoor market is all about spotlighting and promoting local, DIY startups and companies in the agricultural business. The market features only food that is produced locally and fits in with the climate and culture of the Kobe area. Eat Local Kobe is held nearly every Saturday (the schedule varies a bit) and usually hosts around 40 vendors. They also hold regular events, post articles and recipes on their site (in Japanese only), and have a very active and drool-worthy Instagram account (@eatlocalkobe). It s also located in Sannomiya in one of the city s nicest parks. » When: Regularly on Saturdays, but the

schedule varies seasonally (check the website for details) » Where: Higashi Yuenchi Park, 6-4 Kanocho, Chuo-ku, Kobe

Kamigamo Tezukuri-ichi Kyoto is generally viewed as the hub of beautiful handmade goods, so it s no wonder that this traditional town is home to bustling markets of all kinds. There are tons of great ones in the city, yet some of the best are off the beaten path. One of the most unique is the Kamigamo Tezukuriichi (or Kamigamo Handicraft Market ), an outdoor market located on the grounds of Kamigamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site.

This market features mainly craft vendors – {tezukuri} means handmade after all – selling all kinds of things. It s located near the Kamo River in a very natural environment that feels miles away from the city. There is grass, trees, and a creek that runs straight through the grounds.

People often bring tarps and blankets and set up picnics alongside it where they relax after browsing the 250 plus vendors stalls. This is truly one of the more pleasant market experiences, the likes of which only a place as historic and tranquil as Kyoto could offer.

» eatlocalkobe.org » When: Every 1st Saturday from 11:00 to

16:00 » Where: Nakanoshima Fishing Port,

Kawaguchi 2-9, Nishi-ku, Osaka » retown.co.jp/food_lovers

» When: Monthly on the 4th Sunday from

9:00~16:00 (weather permitting) » Where: Kamigamo Shrine, 3-3-9

Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita-ku, Kyoto » kamigamo-tedukuriichi.com

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TRAVEL

A Taste of Toyama Get off the crowded tourist trail this Golden Week and explore the natural beauty and traditional crafts of Toyama.

Text & Images: Jason Haidar

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ocated along the Sea of Japan coast in the Chubu Region, Toyama Prefecture is surrounded on three sides by precipitous mountains, with the enchanting Toyama Bay – serving as a gateway to the Sea of Japan – on the other. Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Kanazawa, Toyama (a 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen from Kanazawa) doesn t have the charms of a well-preserved Edo district or a famous garden like Kenroku-en. But those willing to veer off the tourist track in the direction of Toyama will discover a more authentic Japanese experience away from the crowds, rich in traditional crafts, and in an area just as abundant with natural beauty as the popular tourist spots.

As many sites of interest are off the beaten path with limited public transport available, the most convenient way to explore Toyama Prefecture is by rental car.

Day 1 – Make a sake cup, visit a national treasure, see a giant Buddha A 35-min drive from Toyama Station, Takaoka City has a more than 400-year tradition as a center of industry and traditional crafts dating back to its founding by Toshinaga Maeda, lord of the Kaga Clan, in 1609. This is proudly continued to this day at the Takaoka Regional Market Center, which is hard to miss due to the two large Buddhist statues that tower over the parking lot. Here, you will find a collection of the crafts Toyama is renowned for

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all in one spot, including copper utensils, Takaoka lacquerware, and Inami wood sculptures. The highlight is the chance to make your own copper utensil, such as a sake cup. Take part in the process of pouring molten metal into a hollow mold, set it to cool, then sand it down to a smooth finish. The best part is that after you finish, you can bring it to a local izakaya to break it in with a free cup of local sake!

A 12-minute drive from the Takaoka Regional Market Center is one of Japan s national treasures, Zuiryuji Temple. Dating back to 1645, the building s unique architecture was influenced by styles of the Kamakura Period, which drew from Chinese architectural styles when Zen became popular among the samurai class. While in the area, make sure to check out the Takaoka Daibutsu – one of the three great Buddha statues of Japan, along with the 13-meter-high Great Buddha statue in Kamakura and the Daibutsu in Todaiji Temple, Nara. The Takaoka Daibutsu stands an imposing height 15.85 meters (including the base) and weighs 65 tons. What makes it unique is that was crafted using traditional copperware techniques, which Takaoka is famed for.

If traditional crafts really are your thing, then it s worth making a stop at the Himi City Museum while heading up the coast. They feature a permanent exhibition on Fujimi basket weaving, which will be instantly recognizable to those familiar with the Toka Ebisu Festival in Osaka. The wicker

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Feature baskets that hold the Lucky God have been used for a variety of purposes in Japan for ages, but now are a dying tradition.

For one of the most spectacular sunrises you are likely to witness in the land of the rising sun, treat yourself to a night s stay at the Umi Akiri Hotel on Toyama Bay. Stay in a traditional Japanese room and sample the freshest seafood delicacies the area has to offer including fresh abalone. Don t forget to wash it all down with local Tateyama sake in your new sake cup.

Whatever you do here, be sure to set your alarm for sunrise and head to the open-air onsen, where you will see an unforgettable sunrise over Toyama Bay.

Day 2 – Visit thatched-roof houses, make washi paper, take a river cruise Heading away from the ocean and into the mountains, you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site or Gokayama Village. The name meaning five valleys, the village is famous for the gassho-zukuri thatchedroof houses, easily recognizable form their slanted A-frame slopes. These houses draw huge crowds to Shirakawa village in Gifu Prefecture, but the difference with visiting the gasshozukuri in Gokayama Village is that you re likely to be able to take a perfect postcard picture void of any other tourists.

After admiring Gokayama s thatched-roof houses, make your way to the nearby Gokayama Washi Taiken-kan (papermaking center), where the Gokayama washi handmade paper tradition is passed down by the local people of the area. At this

papermaking center, you can learn about this traditional craft that goes back more than 1,200 years and take a class in English where you can make your very own washi paper postcards, bookmarks, or hand fans for a true one-of-a-kind souvenir.

After your class, book in some relaxation time with a boat tour through the Sho River Gorge. Take the Shogawa River Cruise from its pick up point at Komaki Dam and then kick back and relax as you drift down the calm waters through the Shogawa River Valley. Let the large looming mountains and picturesque landscapes serve as your backdrop as you make your way to Omaki Onsen.

Standing in total isolation on in the shadow of the Shogawa River Valley, the river-side Omaki Onsen Kanko Ryokan is only accessible via the Shogawa Riverboat. After docking, you are greeted by staff in traditional kimono, and once there, all you have to do is surrender yourself to the pure secluded bliss with both indoor and outdoor baths making for an unforgettable onsen experience.

Day 3 – Discover Toyama’s wood carving traditions The town of Inami, which has a history of wood sculpting that dates back over 250 years, lends its name to the traditional craft of Inami woodcarving, which is recognized as a National Traditional Craft of Japan. The town was built up after disaster struck the nearby famous temple of Inami Betsuin Zuisenji.

The temple was destroyed by a fire in the middle of the 18th century. A master carpenter

named Sanshiro Maekawa was sent to oversee and train workers to rebuild the temple. Local legend links back to this as the start of the Inami wood carving tradition, which is now known all over Japan.

Inside the Inami Wood Carving Composite Hall, you can marvel at a collection of over 200 masterfully crafted Inami wood carvings, both on exhibit and for sale. Admire intricately carved ranma (the panel placed above lintel between two rooms), a shishi-gashira (lion dance mask), or even a massive wooden dragon guitar worth 2 million yen! There is something for everyone. Master Carpenters here mainly use camphor tree, zelkova, and paulownia timber.

From start to finish, they utilize around 200 different chisels.

If you wish to channel your inner woodworker, you can sign up for the wooden guinomi carving experience where you can learn from master craftsmen how to make your own wooden smartphone speaker, postcard box, accessory case, or drink coaster, all within about an hour and using traditional Japanese carving tools. KS

Top left: Picturesque village of thatched-roof houses in Gokayama.

Above: a craftsman turning a wooden bowl at Showa Aqua Memorial Park, where visitors can learn about another type of woodcraft called Shogawa.

See more photos online at kansaiscene.com

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Events  Cultural

© Gion Koubu Kabukai

Miyako Odori APR

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都をどり

Kyoto Art Theater Shunjuza • Apr 1–24

Watch the graceful movements of geiko (geisha) from the Gion Kobu district perform at their annual spring performance Miyako Odori.

With its initial performance dating back to 1872 during the Meiji Period, Miyako Odori has been a prominent part of Kyoto s cultural history. The stunning dances, accompanied by traditional songs and music, portray the four seasons in Japan. Each performance runs for 50 minutes and there are three performances everyday from April 1 to 24. A tea ceremony held prior to the show is on offer to those with Special Seat tickets. This year, the event will take place at Kyoto University of Art & Design s theater Shunjuza. Reserve tickets online.

TIME: 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:10pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,600 Special Seats, ¥3,500 First Class Seats • ACCESS: Eizan Line, Chayama Stn, 10-min walk • miyako-odori.jp

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Events  Cultural APR

22 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 » Kitano Tenmangu Market:

Apr 25 • Kitano Tenmangu Shrine • Access: Tenmangu-mae bus stop

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Kemari Festival 蹴鞠祭

Tanzan Shrine, Nara • Apr 29

An elegant ball game that was popular among people of the court in early Japanese history takes place at the ancient Tanzan-jinja. Mountains in fresh spring verdure provide the perfect setting for this traditional event called kemari.

Wearing beautiful kimono, performers kick and pass the ball gracefully. Legend has it that Prince Nakano Oe first met his vassal Kamatari Fujiwara at a kemari game in the 7th century. To commemorate this historical event, Tanzan-jinja, the shrine that houses the deity Kamatari Fujiwara, hosts the ancient ball game biannually in spring and autumn.

TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR / Kintetsu Line, Sakurai Stn, bus to Tanzan-jinja • tanzan.or.jp

Yoga Fest Kobe Design Creative Center Kobe (KIITO), Minato no Mori Park • Apr 22

Relax your mind and body by engaging in meditative poses with fellow yoga enthusiasts.

Instructors based in Kobe and Osaka will conduct 20 yoga classes and workshops such as AcroYoga (mix of partner acrobatic, Thai massage, and yoga) and Kundalini Yoga.

To participate in the classes, purchase tickets at the venue; prices start at ¥2,000 for one class, ¥3,000 for two classes, and ¥4,000 for three classes. Explore the wide variety of practices and don t forget to check out the lively market with organic and fair-trade stalls, meals made from organic produce, and yoga wear shops. The outdoor yoga class SotoYoga (free admission) will take place from 10:30am at the adjacent Minato no Mori Park.

TIME: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free (Class fee is varied) • ACCESS: JR Sannomiya Stn, 20min walk • comejoinyogafest.jimdo.com

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Events  Cultural APR

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Cherry Blossom Festival (Okasai) 桜花祭

Hirano Shrine • Apr 10

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kyoto Stn, bus to Kinugasa

Komae • hiranojinja.com

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© Japan Minti

With 400 trees and 60 different types of cherry blossoms, Hirano-jinja Shrine is one of the best places in Kyoto to appreciate the spring in full bloom. The different shades of pink and white saturate the paths and it comes as no surprise that the Shrine s symbol is a cherry blossom flower.

On this day a procession of 200 people will parade around the neighborhood starting at Hirano-jinja Shrine at 1pm. This parade called Okasai has taken place annually since 985 on April 10. For further exploration in the local area, make sure to visit Kinkakuji and Kitano Tenmangu, both within walking distance.

Sakura Torinuke – Cherry Blossom Viewing 桜の通り抜け

Japan Mint, Osaka • Apr 11–17

The grounds of the Mint Bureau will open to the public for the sakura torinuke (cherry blossom viewing). This is one of the most iconic sites to catch cherry blossoms in Japan in spring. Every year, for only one week, the mint opens its gates for everyone to meander along the 560-meter path and admire the rows of sakura.

Come and walk under the 350 cherry trees of different varieties, including the gorgeous yaezakura – double-flowered cherry blossom. The fun lasts all day and into the evening as the blossoms are lit up with atmospheric lighting, which creates a wonderful ambiance. The walk from Temmabashi station is very pleasant, where an array of food stalls can be found along the river.

TIME: 10am–9pm (9am–9pm on weekends) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway / Keihan Line Temmabashi Stn, 15-min walk • mint.go.jp

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Osaka NIKUFES OSAKA 肉フェス

Nagai Park • Apr 27–May 6 This 10-day open-air festival at Nagai Park caters to the meat lovers Kansai. At this popular culinary event, vendors from all over the country will provide juicy dishes starting from ¥700.

TIME: 10am–10pm (11am–10pm Apr 27, May 1 & 2; 10am–9pm May 6) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Midosuji Subway Line, Nagai Stn, 2-min walk • nikufes.jp

Naniwa Puppet Theater Festival 第22回なにわ人形芝居フェスティバル

good old days of the Showa era. Enjoy live performances, a market, traditional games, and more.

TIME: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Showa-cho Subway Stn, 10-min walk • blog.showacho.jp

Oimatsu Antique Festival 老松古美術祭

Oimatsu-cho, Osaka • Apr 28 & 29 Oimatsu-cho hosts a biannual antique fair. An interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Western period pieces will be on sale. You can bring your collection for a free appraisal.

TIME: 10am–6pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi Stn, 5-min walk • oimatsu-cho.gr.jp

Issinji Theater Kura & Surroundings • Apr 1 A vast array of puppet shows will be on stage at Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in the Tennoji area. Entertaining performances, food and drink stalls, and more will be on the streets during the event.

TIME: 10am–3:30pm • ADMISSION: depends on venue (1-day pass ¥700) • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Stn, 5-min walk • isshinji.net/ningyoufes

Vegan Festival ビーガン•フェスタ

Nakazaki-cho Hall • Apr 22 More than 25 booths selling vegan food, including glutenfree sweets and organically grown vegetables will be open for business. There will be live music performances, free yoga class, lectures on animal rights, and much more. Pets are not allowed.

TIME: 11am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway Nakazakicho Stn • facebook.com/ events/1855079541477810

Showa Era Day どっぷり昭和町

Momogaike Park & Surroundings • Apr 29 Every year on Showa day, the Showa-cho community boasts unique attractions and activities that showcase the

Kyoto Kamo Kyokusui no En – Poetry Composing Game 賀茂曲水宴

Kamigamo Shrine • Apr 8 Poets from the Reizei-ke family (a family tracing back to an aristocracy in the Heian period) wearing ceremonial kimono compose poems in the Japanese garden of Kamigamojinja, a World Heritage listed shrine.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 (Japanese tea and sweets are included) • ACCESS: Kitayama Subway Stn, bus to Kamigamojinja-mae • kamigamojinja.jp

Japanese Sword Exhibition and Sale 第22回京都刀剣まつり

Miyako Messe • May 2–4 A variety of top-quality Japanese swords from all regions and time periods will be on display and for sale.

TIME: 11am–4:40pm May 2; 9:30am–4:40pm May 3; 9:30am–4pm May 4 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Higashiyama Subway Stn, 8-min walk • kurayahashimoto.com/katana/ sell.html

Events  Cultural Hyogo Tightrope Lion Dance 伊勢の森神社 梯子獅子

Isenomori Shrine • Apr 8 Wearing a heavy headdress, performers bravely dance on a tightrope crossing a 10-meter valley. Enjoy thrilling acrobatics held in a puff of falling cherry-blossom petals!

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

JR Kobe Line, Maiko Stn, bus to Tsuna Ichinomiya IC, 10-min taxi ride • awajishima-kanko.jp/manual/detail. php?bid=400&lid=20&at=

Confectionary Fair 第8回菓子祭前日祭

Daikai-dori, Toyooka • Apr 14 Satisfy your sweet tooth at this fair in Toyooka, known for its confectionary deity that resides in Nakashima shrine. There will be an array of confectionaries, a tea ceremony, sweets-making demonstrations, and more.

TIME: 10am–3:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Toyooka Stn • toyooka-cci. jp/sweetsfestival

St. Michael’s International School Bazaar St. Michael’s International School • Apr 21 This popular annual School Bazaar at St. Michael s International School in Kobe promises a fun-filled day with lots of international food, games, fun stalls & rummage sales, music, dance, and a raffle.

Raffle tickets are on sale until 1pm on the day. Everyone is welcome.

TIME: 10am–3pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Motomachi Stn, 10-min walk • smis.org

Shiba Fes 第５回芝ふぇす

Naruohama Seaside Park • Apr 28 & 29 At the most southern part of Nishinomiya is Naruohama Seaside Park that provides a 4,500-meter-squared grassed area adjacent to the sea. Enjoy delicious food and music in the Flower Garden and Green

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Area while watching the yachts sail by.

coincide with International Jazz Day (Apr 30).

TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Hanshin Koshien Stn, 20 min bus to Rizo Naruohama Stop • naruohama-park.com

TIME: 11am (end time depends on venue) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Ohmi Yokaichi Line, Yokaichi Stn, bus to Shiyakusyo-mae • biwako-jazzfes.com

Nara Jimmusai Festival 春の神武祭

Kashiharajingu & Surroundings • Apr 7 & 8 This annual spring festival is held in honor of the First Emperor of Japan, who is enshrined in Kashihara Shrine.

Included in the line-up are rakugo performance, a grand street parade, kids workshops, traditional Japanese cultural acts, live music shows and street market.

TIME: 10am–4pm Apr 7; 10am–4:30pm

Apr 8 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Kashiharajingu-mae Stn, 5-min walk • kashihara-kanko.or.jp/ jinmusai

Pottery in Shigaraki 第13回信楽窯元散策路 ぶらり窯 元めぐり

Shigaraki-cho (Nagano-Chiku Area) • Apr 6–8 Renowned for tanuki (raccoon dog) earthenware, Shigaraki hosts a popular event where about 20 local pottery stores are open to tourists. Visit their studios, try your hand on a potter s wheel, and enjoy refreshments at galleries showcasing both modern and traditional ceramics.

TIME: 9am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Shigarakikogen-Tetsudo Line, Shigaraki Stn, 10-min walk • shigarakiwa.jp

Nagahama Hikiyama Festival 長浜曳山まつり

Heijokyo Tenpyo Sai – Heijokyo Festival 平城京天平祭 2018

Heijokyo Palace Site • May 3–5 Nara hosts a visual spectacle celebrating its more than 1,300 years of history. With traditional ceremonies, an array of activities to participate in, and a variety of different entertainment, this event showcases the ancient cultural life of the Japanese.

TIME: 10am–4:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Yamatosaidaiji Stn, 15-min walk • tenpyosai.jp

Shiga Biwako Jazz Festival びわこJAZZ東近江 2018

Yokaichi Stn & Surroundings • Apr 29 & 30 More than 200 musicians and performers will gather and perform at approximately 40 venues in the city of Yokaichi including Yokaichi Station, the city hall, and the streets in between. This year marks the 10th year of the event and will

Nagahama Hachimangu & Surroundings • Apr 13–16 Enjoy the traditional art of kabuki being performed on floats that are themselves works of art; beautifully decorated with antique tapestries and adorned with elaborate carvings.

TIME: Depends on date • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Nagahama Stn, 10min walk • nagahama-hikiyama.or.jp

Wakayama

preserved, traditional samuraistyle buildings. Atmospheric musical performances are sure to transport visitors to a bygone era.

TIME: 6:30pm–9pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Yuasa Stn, 10-min walk • yuasa-machinami.sakura.ne.jp

Dojojieshiki 道成寺会式

Dojoji Temple & Surroundings • Apr 27 Legend has it that a girl named Kiyohime turned into a serpent and chased after her beloved monk, Anchin.

To commemorate this legend, watch the Janjaka Odori (snake dance) as a 25-meter man-made snake runs up a flight of stairs!

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Dojoji Stn, 7-min walk • dojoji.com

Wakayama Magical Music Tour 第13回わかやまマジカルミュージッ クツアー

Wakayama Castle Park and Surroundings • Apr 22 Notice that the second kanji character of Wakayama (和歌 山) means song ? Experience Wakayama s vibrant music culture through the various performances that will take place at Wakayama Castle Park, museums, live houses, and on the streets. Around 200 artists will be showcasing their talents.

TIME: 10:30am–11pm (depends on event location) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Line, Wakayamashi Stn, 10-min walk • magical.wakayamashi.jp

Yuasa Andon Art Festa 2018 ゆあさ行灯アート展 2018

Yuasa-cho, Wakayama • Apr 29–May 3 Over 500 lamps made by artists from all over the country adorn the town of Yuasa, known for the beautifully

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Shoryoe – Memorial Service for Prince Shotoku 聖霊会舞楽大法要

Shitennoji Temple, Osaka • Apr 22

This event is an excellent opportunity to appreciate bugaku, a great classical performing art. The performance commemorates the revered ancient figure, Prince Shotoku, who erected this important temple in the 6th century.

A skilled troupe of dancers trained in bugaku, which has been designated a nationally important cultural asset, will put on a performance that has been carried out in the Japanese imperial courts for over 1,200 years. Watch the graceful movements of young boys in butterfly costumes and other dancers wearing elaborate masks.

Beautiful ornaments shaped like red spider lilies will decorate the stage adding to the ambiance of this traditional Japanese art.

The original version of the lion dance will be sure to delight the crowd.

TIME: 12:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway Stn, 5-min walk • shitennoji.or.jp

Events  Art Yoshiyuki Ooe “Bōzu Bones Born”

The 150th Anniversary of the Meiji Period : Making and Designing Meiji Arts and Crafts

Yoshiyuki Ooe is a native Osakan sculptor. His work recaptures recognizable motifs in unfamiliar contexts to connect viewers with renewed perceptions and interpretations.

Ooe has gained popularity on the international spectrum in recent years, most notably in the UK, where he was featured in the London Times. In the coming exhibition, Ooe will present works titled Souvenir and Souvenir Jacket, where he continues the use of schoolboys in their uniforms. Showcasing the unique view of Ooe, the boys are wrapped around by a snake carrying skulls, playing a game of trains, and wearing skulls masks. These motifs were inspired by the patterns of Japanese embroidered bomber jackets, which were popular items for American soldiers to take home during the post-war occupation – hence the titles.

Souvenir Jacket 2018 mixed media, H64.5 x W97 x D32 cm Photo: Courtesy of TEZUKAYAMA GALLERY

トーマス • B•ブロー 《花蝶図輪花皿》 明治∼大正時代 陶、色絵金彩 京都国立近代美術館

Tezukayama Gallery

Yoshiyuki Ooe Exhibition • Until Apr 28 • OPEN: 12pm–7pm • CLOSED: Sun, Mon & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Namba Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 06-6534-3993 • tezukayama-g.com/en

The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto

Meiji Arts and Crafts Exhibition • Until May 20 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm (until 8pm Fri & Sat, last entry 30mins before closing) • CLOSED: Mon (except Apr 30) • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: Tozai subway line, Higashiyama Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 075-761-4111 • momak.go.jp/English/index.html

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The Empire of Imagination and Science of Rudolph II Sagawa Art Museum Rudolph II was Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia, and Archduke of Austria during the 16th and 17th centuries. He was also known as an influential collector and patron of Northern Mannerist art, often reported to sit and stare for hours on end at new acquisitions. He contributed to the European art scene by gathering, commissioning, and carefully cataloging classical and contemporary paintings, writings, crafts, artifacts, flora, and fauna from around the world throughout the course of his life. This exhibition presents work from Giuseppe Arcimboldo and other artists under the patronage of Rudolph II. Guests are invited to this time-honored selection of works from the one of the most impressive European art collections in all of history.

Rudolph II Collection Exhibition • Until May 27 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: JR Biwako line, Moriyama Stn, bus to Sagawa Bijutsukan-mae stop • TEL: 077-585-7800 • sagawaartmuseum.or.jp/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

ジュゼッペ • アルチンボルド《ウェルトゥムヌスとしての皇帝ルドルフ 2 世像》 1591 年、油彩 • 板、スコークロステル城、スウェーデン Skokloster Castle, Sweden

During the Meiji Restoration as the Japanese political system was being consolidated under the new emperor, the government led numerous efforts to promote domestic industries and exports abroad, sparking an increased international interest in Japanese art. In Kansai, part of this movement involved the establishment of the Kyoto Prefectural School of Painting, where students received practical training and instruction from diverse Nihon-ga painters seeking to ensure that traditional classical designs were adapted to meet contemporary demands. In this exhibition, guests have an opportunity to examine Meiji crafts alongside a carefully selected series of Nihonga pieces representing Japanese aesthetic sensibilities during this transition into the modern age.

Events  Art Osaka WORK#1194 2014 97.0×220.0cm cloth, Japanese paper, acrylic, gesso, sumi (Japanese ink), charcoal, pencil, pastel on wooden panel

A Tower of the Sun Collection: Expo ’70 Ethnological Mission National Museum of Ethnology •  Until May 29 The 60s and 70s represented a time of unprecedented global development. Throughout this period, the Japan Expo 70 World Ethnological Materials Research & Collection Mission collected historical works and specimens from all around the world. This exhibition is comprised of a collection of these valuable pieces.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Wed • ADMISSION: ¥420 • ACCESS: Osaka Monorail, Banpaku Kinenkoen Stn, 15min walk • TEL: 06-6876-2151 • minpaku. ac.jp/english

Ohirome: New Acquisitions Exhibition Osaka Museum of History •  Until May 7 Since its founding, the Osaka Museum of History has encouraged citizens to cultivate a deep understanding of the city s history in order to interpret the present more fully. This exhibition displays 40 new pieces recently donated to the museum by local art lovers.

Hiroko Koshino “Kira − Brilliance of the East and West” KH Gallery Ashiya This exhibition displays a mixture of paintings and fashion from artist and designer Hiroko Koshino, who seeks to create a dazzling balance of Eastern and Western cultural aesthetics in her works. Koshino strives to bring a sense of modern international beauty and flare to traditional Japanese culture, basing certain elements of her style on artistic features prominent in foreign countries in different areas around the globe. The ki in Kira refers to twill weave, a type of textile weave with a diagonal pattern, while ra refers to thin-weave silk fabric. The word in its entirety represents the beauty of these ornately colored fashion items and the appealing aura of the elegant people who wear them.

Hiroko Koshino Exhibition • Until Aug 10 • OPEN: 11am-4pm (Online booking only, except Sundays) • CLOSED: Wed • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Ashiya Stn, bus to Okuike stop • kh-gallery.com/en/ ashiya

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Tues • ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: Tanimachi subway line, Tanimachi Yon-chome Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 06-6946-5728 • mus-his.city.osaka.jp/eng/index.html

Turner and the Poetics of Landscape

Yokoo Tadanori: Journey to the New World

The Museum of Kyoto •  Until Apr 15

Kyoto Naturally White Ivory Carving Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum •  Until May 20 Ivory has been used as a rare and expensive material for carving luxury crafts throughout Asian and European history.

This exhibition presents a series of carved white ivory crafts imported from overseas during the Meiji era.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon & Tues • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Kiyomizumichi Stop, 5-min walk • TEL: 075-532-4270 • sannenzakamuseum.co.jp/index_e.html

Hyogo

Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851) was a classical master of landscape painting known for his depictions of rolling countrysides and ethereal seascapes. This exhibition includes prints, oil paintings, and watercolors by Turner, brought together from a handful of British and Japanese institutions.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Karasuma

subway line, Karasuma Oike Stn, 3-min walk • TEL: 075-222-0888 • bunpaku. or.jp/en

Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art •  Until May 6 This exhibition presents a number of works by graphic designer Yokoo Tadanori, in which he explores themes related to death and the afterlife. Examine the world in which we live through the lens of existence in the great beyond.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥700 • ACCESS: Hankyu

line, Oji Koen Stn, 6-min walk • TEL: 078-855-5602 • ytmoca.jp/english/ en_guidance.html

Yuji Hombori “Passion – Mihotoke” Gallery Yamaki Fine Art •  Until May 12 Yuji Hombori creates large and small-scale sculptures and installations of Buddhist statues and structures using ordinary materials such as cardboard and wrapping paper. This exhibition displays Hombori s latest creations, including a new piece measuring over two meters in height.

OPEN: 11am–7pm • CLOSED: Sun & Mon • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kobe and Hanshin lines, Motomachi Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 078-391-1666 • gyfa.co.jp/en

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

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Food & Drink

/ GREAT PLACES TO EAT

FOODSPOTTING

Devour delectable drinks and desserts at these creative, retro Nakazakicho retreats.

Text & Images: Celia Polkinghorne

Cafe Muni

ARABIQ

カフェムニ

珈琲舎• 書肆アラビク

The wonderful thing about Nakazakicho is that many café owners have come to the area not just to open a café, but to create a unique artistic space, or a haven of relaxation. Cafe Muni, with its hanging pot plants, bunches of dried flowers, and mosaic lanterns is one of these peaceful sanctuaries. The café is in one of the oldest nagaya (traditional Japanese wooden buildings) in the area – it is 160 years old. Owner, Yoko Tatera, who opened shop in 2009, lovingly bakes homemade whole-wheat sourdough bread to serve with her tasty lunch sets of spicy beans, minced meats, salads, and pasta dishes with homemade sauces for ¥860. One of the best parts about visiting Cafe Muni is hanging out with Yoko s little dog Komuni-chan, who is the café s unofficial mascot and who can be seen sprawled out on the shop s front doorstep on any given day. Yoko makes one of the best chai teas in town, flavored with natural kibisato (mineral sugar), and both her creamy tiramisu and her matcha and white chocolate cake (¥410) are truly worth making a special trip for.

In our modern world of smartphones and e-readers, sometimes we miss the sensation of holding a real book in our hands and thumbing through its pages. When this sentiment hits, there s no better place to go than to ARABIQ Books & Gallery Cafe – a fixture on the Nakazakicho scene since 2007. Founded and run by former town planner Ken Moriuchi, this haven of coffee, art, and literature is named after a bar in the well-known Japanese mystery novel Kyomu-eno-kumotsu, one of the country s most famous detective stories. With its warm, cosy interior lined with tall, disheveled bookshelves, retro chandeliers, and the latest art exhibit which changes once or twice a month, it is the perfect place to lose yourself in a good book or catch up with an old friend. You can t go past the chocolate cake or the tiramisu (¥450), and the drinks menu is almost guaranteed to have something you ve never heard of or tasted. Ken recommends the Fieker (coffee with Austrian rum) or the MariaTheresa (coffee with orange liqueur, whipped cream and hard candy sprinkled on top), apparently a current favorite on Instagram!

OPEN: 12pm–9pm • Price RANGE: ¥410– ¥4,000 • ADDRESS: 4-1-14 Nakazaki-nishi, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 5-min walk • TEL: 06-6371-7368 • FACEBOOK: Cafe Muni

OPEN: 1:30pm–9pm • Price RANGE: ¥450–¥2,000 • ADDRESS: 3-4-14 Nakazaki, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 3-min walk • TEL: 06-7500-5519 • arabiq.net

Taiyou No Tou 太陽ノ塔

For one of the most divine cheesecake experiences in Osaka, look no further than kitsch but comfy Taiyou No Tou. Cake sets run for ¥1,000 here and include your choice of tea or coffee with one of their delectable creations, such as the creamy cheesecake with homemade berry and custard sauce, or the dreamy chocolate ganache tiramisu tart. If you re craving an early lunch, go for the Obanzai lunch set – a nutritious plate of three side dishes of your choice with brown rice and miso soup. The free WiFi here is a plus for those without a connection or for anyone looking to get a little work done, but if you re having a connection-free day, the interior of Taiyou No To is more than enough to keep you intrigued with its mismatching hanging lights, retro furniture, and unique crockery. Near the entrance, stacked next to a collection of flyers and postcards, you can find free foldout maps of Nakazakicho, and the friendly staff members are more than happy to recommend places to check out in the neighborhood. Refreshingly, like many of the cafés in the area, this one is completely non-smoking.

OPEN: 9am–10pm • Price RANGE: ¥1,000– ¥2,500 • ADDRESS: 1-4-20 Nakazaki, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 1-min walk • TEL: 06-6312-4305 • taiyounotou.com

Need more dining options?

Check kansaifinder.com/places to search all of our food and drink spots 18

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

Events  Live Music Jake Bugg

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Born Jake Edwin Charles Kennedy, English singer-songwriter Jake Bugg got his first break as a 17-year-old. After submitting material, he was selected to appear on the BBC Introducing stage at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival. Signing with Mercury records soon after, Bugg released his debut self-titled album in 2012, which was described by the UK music magazine CLASH as precocious talent fusing retro folk with blistering contemporary riffs.

Jumping forward to the present, Bugg s latest release is his fourth studio album, Hearts That Strain. On the album, Bugg said, This time around I just wanted to write tunes and record them with great musicians. Of the lyrical content, he added, I m singing about my life, not telling anybody what they should be doing with theirs.

Jake Bugg comes to Japan for three dates (Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo) after a UK acoustic tour and dates in the US, Europe, and Australia.

Apr / May Rock & Pop Belinda Carlisle Apr 2 American pop vocalist Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Pop • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,800/¥9,800 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

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Solo acoustic tour from English musician • Singer-songwriter • ¥6,300 • Apr 24th – 7:30pm, Club Quattro, Osaka (TEL: 06-6311-8111); Apr 25th – 6:30pm, Metro, Kyoto (TEL: 075-752-4765)

Royal Hunt

Namie Amuro

Fall Out Boy

Apr 17

Apr 21, 22, 25 & 26

Apr 24 & 25

Danish progressive-metal band since 1989

Japanese pop idol vocalist final tour

American rock band formed 2001

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

Kyocera dome, Osaka • Pop • 6pm Apr 21; 5pm Apr 22; 6:30pm Apr 25 & 26 • ¥9,800 • TEL: 0570-200-610

Zepp Osaka Bayside, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 0570200-888

Orange Range

Christopher Cross

Apr 24

Apr 24 & 25

Japanese hip-hop-rock band

American singer-songwriter

Big Cat, Osaka • Hip-hop-rock • 7pm • ¥4,800/¥5,800 • TEL: 0570-200-888

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

Czecho No Republic Apr 20 Japanese pop-rock band

Mount Eerie Experimental US songwriter Phil Elverum

Apr 8 Urbanguild, Kyoto • Experimental • 7:30pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 066357-4400

Apr 9 Guggenheim House, Kobe • Experimental • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 078-220-3924

Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock-pop • 7pm • ¥3,800 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

CTA featuring Danny Seraphine, Bill Champlin, and Donnie Dacus Apr 20

Jake Bugg Solo acoustic artist from England

Apr 24

Chicago Transit Authority ft.

Danny Seraphine, Bill Champlin, and Donnie Dacus Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • AOR • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥11,000/¥12,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Dir En Grey Apr 25 & 26 Japanese visual-kei rock band

Club Quattro, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 7:30pm • ¥6,300 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Apr 25 Metro, Kyoto • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm • ¥6,300 • TEL: 075-752-4765

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Phoenix Apr 26

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Events  Live Music MAY

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Hermeto Pascoal Described as a beloved figure in Brazilian music, 81-year-old Hermeto Pascoal is a composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Starting out in a rural area of Brazil learning accordion from his father, he went on to make his first recording appearances in 1964. Seven years later, he played on Miles Davis s album Live-Evil, after which Davis called him the most impressive musician in the world. Since the late 1970s, Pascoal has mainly led his own bands and due to some of his unconventional ways of making music (using teapots, toys, and cups partially submerged in water!), he earned the nickname o Bruxo ( the Sorcerer ).

Last year, he released the album Natureza Universal, which was described by Dusty Groove as a jazz-based arrangement done with all the dynamic energy of Hermeto s earlier music, tuned a bit towards the Duke Ellington or Gil Evans worlds of tone and colour.

Harry Styles

Mount Eerie

May 10

Apr 8

Releasing his debut single Sign of the Times (a number-one hit in the UK) last year, One Direction s Harry Styles is now a solo artist.

The singer, songwriter, and actor got his breakthrough after entering a UK television talent show (The X Factor). From there, the boy vocal group One Direction was born. After going on a hiatus, which looks to be possibly permanent, all the members have released solo material.

Mount Eerie is the name used

by US songwriter, musician, and producer Phil Elverum. Originally a member of the band The Microphones, Elverum began his current project 15 years ago in 2003. Described as a mix of ambient, experimental, indie-folk rock, he has just released his ninth studio album titled Now Only. The six-track album includes an 11-minute composition called Distortion, which begins basically with that before the lyrics and acoustic guitar sets the tone for a very open, personal, and tragic piece of music. Elverum is a prolific producer of music and every release has received considerable critical acclaim. Mount Eerie performs five shows in Japan on the back of sold-out performances in the US.

Styles material seems to be drifting away from One Direction s commercial pop tracks and seems to be more adult themed. When questioned on the subject of pop stars taking the rock route in an interview last year, Styles said, I really wanted to make an album that I wanted to listen to.

One Direction singer solo tour• Poprock • World Memorial Hall, Kobe • 6:30pm • ¥TBA • TEL: 0570-200-888

Brazilian jazz multi-instrumentalist • Shangri-La, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 03-5458-7688

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

Experimental US songwriter Phil Elverum • Indie • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Apr 8th – 7:30pm, Urban Guild, Kyoto (075-212-1125); Apr 9th – 7pm, Guggenheim House, Kobe (078-2203924)

Live Music French indie-pop band Zepp Osaka Bayside, Osaka • Indie • 7pm • ¥7,000/¥7,500 • TEL: 0570200-888

Four Tet Apr 26 English experimental musician Kieran Hebden Club Quattro, Osaka • Experimental • 8pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Scandal Apr 27 & 28 Japanese pop-rock girl band Orix Theater, Osaka • Rock • 7pm Apr 27; 5pm Apr 28 • ¥5,800 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Bridear Apr 28 Japanese heavy-rock five-piece band Shangri-La, Osaka • Heavy Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 057-0200-9999

Night of 1,000 Eyes ft.

Rhyming Gaijin, Shayne Bowden, Nessie, and more Apr 28 Mixed genre artists including rap, beats, African, folk

The Tomboys/Kinoko Hotel May 10 Two Japanese female Group Sounds bands Live Square 2nd Line, Osaka • Group Sounds • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥3,500 • TEL: 06-6453-1985

Harry Styles May 10 One Direction English vocalist World Memorial Hall, Kobe • Pop • 6:30pm • ¥10,000/¥18,000 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Sex Machineguns May 13 Japanese metal trio Muse, Esaka • Metal • 6pm • ¥4,000 • TEL: 03-3475-9999

May’s May 13 Japanese R&B duo Kitagari Maiko and Kawai Junichi Shangri-La, Osaka • R&B • 4pm • ¥4,200 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

The 50 Kaintez

Cradle of Filth May 2

High-energy garage-punk trio Taku Taku, Kyoto • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,800/¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

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

Nakamura Emi May 15

The Neatbeats May 3 Japanese retro-rock outfit since 1997 Varit, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 • TEL: 078-392-6655

Koda Kumi May 5 & 6 Japanese R&B vocalist

Japanese pop vocalist Taku Taku, Kyoto • Pop • 7pm • ¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

The Muggles Every Fri & Sat Mellow ballads, classic rock and rock n roll from Osaka based jamming band

OSAKA

No Key Money, No Deposit, No Guarantor!

Izumimachi Mayflower House Apartment

All Room with Private Bathroom ¥48,000~

Fully furnished all rooms 10-12 mats include kitchen, bathroom with bathtub, TV, A/C, fridge & private balcony.

¥48,000~

(With Bathroom, Toilet & Kitchen)

¥20,000~

Bath & Toilet MB

(Shared Bathroom Toilet & Kitchen) +Utilities Service charge ¥10,000 +Deposit (Refundable) ¥10,000

玄関

CL

May 15

Monthly Apartment, Guesthouse

Balcony

Pika Space, Osaka • Mixed Genre • 6:30pm • ¥1,500 • TEL: 06-556-0002

Zepp, Osaka • R&B • 7pm Apr 5; 1:30pm Apr 6 • ¥6,800/¥10,000 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

10~12 mats ( 28m2 )

• Free internet + CATV in lounge • Hotel type lounge 24h open • Internet access in each room • 5-min walk from Matsuyamachi and Tanimachi 4 chome subway stations • 2-1-15, Izumimachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka

www.roppongi-mayflower-house.com Toll Free: 0120-880-456 Cell:080-5436-1777

Events  Live Music INTERVIEW

APR

11

Ikarus The members of IKARUS take their inspiration from a mix of math rock, free jazz, electronica, and pop. They call their sound evocative jazz. KS spoke with drummer Ramon Oliveras from the Swiss outfit about their second trip to Japan.

Could you tell us a little about how the band came together?

We have two singers, Anna Hirsch and Andreas Lareida, the rhythm section formed by pianist Lucca Fries, double-bass player Mo Meyer, and myself as drummer, bandleader, and composer.

Ikarus was formed five years ago for my graduation concert from the Zurich University of the Arts, where I studied with my favorite bass player Mo Meyer. The rest of the members are from the Swiss cities Bern, Basel, and Winterthur and I chose them for their unique musicality in the beginning. But because of our extensive touring through Europe and Japan, we have now also formed a deep friendship with one another.

How would you describe the Ikarus sound and live performance to a new audience?

The Ikarus sound is a beautiful tension created between a Nordic European darkness and a sweltering, equatorial color palette. It s something between the winter pensiveness and melancholia in Hokkaido and the feeling you might get from spending a day in Okinawa. Technically speaking, Ikarus is a volatile mixture that emphasizes polyrhythms, sensual singing, and energetic improvisation. So, for me as a drummer and composer, I m very

Woodstock Café, Ashiya • Group Sounds • Free Admission (¥2,000 for 2 drinks + snack) • TEL: 079-734-1044

Jazz & Blues

much inspired by classical music, experimental pop, and left-field electronics (e.g. Morton Feldman, Meshuggah, The Knife, and Craig Taborn) and I channel their influence in the context of this contemporary jazz formation.

What are you looking forward to on your second trip to Japan?

We re really looking forward to seeing all the very nice people again who came to our concerts last year. And of course, meeting new ones who we can get excited about our music. We are also especially looking forward to the fantastic Japanese cuisine and to all the other great things you can experience only in Japanese culture.

Swiss evocative-free-jazz group • Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Free-jazz • 7:30pm • ¥2,800/¥3,500 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Saxophonist and composer Matthieu Metzger

Japanese-American actress, singer, and songwriter

Urbanguild, Kyoto • Experimental jazz • 7pm • ¥2,000/¥2,400 • TEL: 075-212-1125

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Acid Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥5,900/¥6,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Sarah Maeda

Ikarus

May 2

Adam Baldych & Helge Lien

Apr 11

Japanese funk saxophonist

May 15

Swiss evocative jazz group Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥2,800/¥3,500 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Gene Shimosato & Fractal Attraction Apr 12 Japanese-American jazz guitarist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm/9pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Killing Spree

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

European piano and violin duo Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥4,000/¥5,000 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Hermeto Pascoal May 11

Classical

Brazilian jazz multi-instrumentalist

Ikuko Kawai

Shangri-La, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 03-5458-7688

Apr 14

Monday Michiru May 9

Classically trained Japanese violinist Billboard live OSAKA, Osaka • Classical • 4pm/7pm • ¥6,900/¥7,900 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Apr 16

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

World

Afropolitan – The Band Apr 14 Four Japan-based African musicians from differing backgrounds and cultures, combine together to perform the foot-tapping rhythms and infectious beats of traditional African music.

Cafe Bohemia, Osaka • TIME: 12–2pm • ACCESS: 3min walk from exit 7 of Midosuji Subway Shinsaibashi Stn • ENTRY: ¥3,500 • osaka-bohemia.com

Events  Club Adam Lounge Adam Lounge just celebrated its first anniversary last month and has invited Mesto, the 18-year-old DJ from the Netherlands, to perform for EDM fans.

Melle Stomp, aka Mesto, started his career in 2014 as a 15-year-old releasing his first single Go!”, a collaboration with another Dutch DJ Alex Ranzino, as a free download. Since then, he has continued to release remixes and his own tracks. He worked with the future house pioneer Mike Williams on a bootleg of Ummet Ozcan s Raise Your Hands and released solo works such as Tokyo, and Rio. He collaborated with renowned house DJs Martin Garrix and Justin Mylo on the single Bouncybob (2015), which earned him worldwide recognition. In October 2016, Mesto signed a contract with Spinnin Records and he played at the Amsterdam Dance Event. This month, he comes to Japan for the first time. Besides Mesto, DJ Kura from Portugal and

APR

8

Jonas Blue from the UK are also playing in Kansai.

It s going to be an exciting month for EDM fans.

Mesto Japan Tour 2018 at Adam Lounge Hosted by Naoki Katayama (Future House/EDM) • DJS: Mesto, Wtp, Yuichi, Mia + more • OPEN: 3pm– 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,700/1D (ADV: ¥4,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 0120-170-317 • adam-lounge.com

April 1 (Sun) Triangle Suncaqha feat. Spongebob Squrewave & Phatworld (Breakcore/Jungle/Drum n Bass) • ACTS: Spongebob Squrewave, Phatworld, Ka4u, Genick, Shaka-itchi, Monogotz a.k.a MC Nmdb, Yanmah + more • OPEN: 3pm-10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥3,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

6 (Fri) Alzar Pulse Code Modulation feat.

Nick Reverse (Techno) • DJS: Nick Reverse, Ryu.K, Momo, Eisen, Yohei + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 090-6960-8527 • alzar.jp

Circus Move D 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Downtempo/Techno) • DJS: Move D, Kabuto + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D (ADV: ¥3,100/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

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Metro Nebula – Guest DJ: Compuma, Toshio Bing Kajiwara – (Techno) • DJS: Compuma, Toshio ‘Bing’ Kajiwara, Kazuma, Podd • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

7 (Sat) Alzar Alzar Saturdays feat.DJ Ogawa (House/Tech House) • DJS: Teruhiko Ogawa, Senda, Nao Nomura, Taiki + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 090-6960-8527• alzar.jp

Circus Licaxxx × DJ Ageishi (House) • DJS: Licaxxx, Ageishi • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,600/1D (W/the ticket stub of Return at Namba Hatch : ¥600) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Jaai Ne: magari presents Proxeeus (Goa Trance)

• LIVE: Proxeeus • DJS: TBA • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥ 2,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-30373214 • iflyer.tv/ja/Bar-JAAI

Joule Takkyu Ishino – Return Another Edition – (Techno) •DJS: Takkyu Ishino, Yoshinori Sunahara, Monashee, Kozee + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (W/the ticket stub of Return at Namba HATCH: ¥500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.com

Namba Hatch Return (Electronic) • LIVE: Ryoji Ikeda , Radiq a.k.a.

Yoshihiro Hanno, D.a.n, Yahyel • DJS: Aoki Takamasa, Sunahara Yoshinori, Yuri Urano a.k.a. Yullippe OPEN: 6pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥5,300/1D • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6535-5569 • smashwest.com

Sun Hall Ring UFO Club – Twilight Zone – (Psychedelic Trance/Tech Trance) • DJS: Kihira Naoki, Tez, Electronix, Ono + Singo, Chika, Daichi + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D • WHERE:

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

Shinsaibashi • TEL: • 06-6213-7077 • sunhall.jp

Triangle Tribal Dance Floor – Radikal Moodz First Japan Tour in Osaka (Psychedelic Trance) • ACTS: Radikal Moodz, Show-Hey, Buzz, Yuki, Lazzzy a.k.a Sho Urata, Poo-chii, Stick, Hofmann, + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

8 (Sun) Circus Newtone Records presents Brane (Experimental) • LIVE: Beatrice Dillon, Eye, Ypy • DJS: Ooshima Shigeru, Koji Sawamura + more • OPEN: 6pm–11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

10 (Tue) G.R.Cafe Terrace Tuesday Deep Dubstep Lounge vol.1 (Deep Dubstep)

Events  Club • DJS: Shohei, Awa + more • OPEN: 8pm-11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-6707 • grcafeterrace.com

12 (Thu) Socore Factory Socore Factory presents Internal –Touch the Sky Sound System (Techno/House/Getto Tech) • DJS: Altz, Yosuke Yukimatsu, Fulltono • OPEN: 7:30pm-12:00am • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

13 (Fri) Alzar Young Marco supported by Sattelite (House/Techno) • DJS: Mightwhales, Koichiro Murakawa, Yusuke Sadaoka • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 090-69608527• alzar.jp

Atmosphäre Evolve 23 (Industrial/Alternative Hip Hop) • LIVE: Evolve 23 • DJS: Ka4u, Distest, Hamatai, Aaakkkiii • OPEN: 8pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • FACEBOOK: atmosphäre

Circus Margaret Dygas 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Minimal/Techno) • DJS: Margaret Dyagas, Soichi, Fumi + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Compufunk Records Connected Underground – Daniel M. (Separate Skills) from Frankfurt am Mai – (Deep Tech/ Tech House) • DJS: Daniel M, Ryoma Sasaki, Naohirio Tomisawa, Ouchi-S, Koichi + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Kitahama • TEL: 06-6314-6541 • compufunk.com

Noon + Cafe Vinyl Session vol. 91 – Visual & Vinyl Session – (Jazz/Crossover/ Deep House) • LIVE: Shu Suzuki • DJS: Aida, Daisuke Matsumoto, Shinji Okano, Shigema, Yohei Okamoto + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (FOREIGNERS: ¥500/1D) • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 066373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

Triangle

Singh’s Kitchen & Bar

New Party – Jameson Night – (Drum n Bass/Hardcore Techno/ Bass)

Ignition The Spring - DJ Rikam Japan Tour 2018 (Psychedelic Trance)

• ACTS: Hayabusa, Index, Matres, Urameshi Yuko, Yanmah, + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,400/1D (ADV: ¥1,900/1D, FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62122264 • triangleosaka.com

•ACTS: Rikam, Mirson, Akai + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6632-4433 • singhkitchen.com

Socrates Out of Base vol.16 (Psychedelic Trance)

14 (Sat) Alzar Wols feat. DJ Nobu (Techno) • DJS: Nobu, Takaaki Itoh, Loe • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 090-6960-8527• alzar.jp

• DJS: Saroinx, Maro, Shun, Deep Fryer, Hendanshi + more • OPEN: 10:30pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-254-6210 • sound-powder.com

20 (Fri) Fab-Space

Cauliflower

O.D.L (Dub)

Eclec (Techno/Experimental) • LIVE: Moss, Shiba • DJS: Shingo, Mitsuyas, K Sasaki • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6484-3110 • barcauliflower.com

Circus Pearson Sound 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Techno/Experimental) • DJS: Pearson Sound, Ooshima Shigeru, Aspara, Dym + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Joule You Are Here 3rd Anniversary feat. Hot Since 82 (Techno) • DJS: Hot Since 82, Nao Nomura, Junichi Kuwata + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,000, Under 22 yrs OLD: ¥1,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.com

Metro Kyotographie 2018 Kick Off Party- Move On Up- (House/Hip Hop) • LIVE: Phennel Koliander, Daichi Yamamoto • DJS: Alex From Tokyo, Masaki Taura + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D, STUDENTS: ¥1,500/1D, W/Kyotographie PASSPORT: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Noon + Cafe Deeperama (Deep House/Techno) •DJS: Sprinkles a.k.a. Terre Thaemlitz, Mitsuki + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,400/1D • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe. com

• ACTS: Ove-Naxx, Sak-Dub-I, Dubby Bon, Hondub Hiroaki, Omodaka, Theus, Posswokung, Yohei the West, Naguy, Mipitix + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Hyogo, Himeji • TEL: 079-222-2882 • club-fab. com

Noon + Cafe Vintage & Groovin Special Edition -Soi 48 Kansai Tour 2018 (Morlum/World Music) • Live: Oorutaichi, Jap Kasai • DJs: Soi 48, Mongoose, Iryoku, Opal 7 • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,400/1D • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

21 (Sat) Troop Cafe

• ACTS: Okahashi Nobuhiro, Kinzoku Taro & Sandersonia, Flagio, Mictora + more • OPEN: 7pm–11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6211-2855 • musicbarhokage.net

28 (Sat) Circus Aurora Halal 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (House) • DJS: Aurora Halal + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822

Piccadilly New Ôrder Sp. Guest Kura (EDM) • DJS: Kura, Benkay, Ray, Shinji, Silver Fox, Walt, Genki, Chikara + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,500/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6809-5895 • clubpiccadilly.com

29 (Sun / hol) Noon + Cafe Freedom Time 22nd Anniversary feat. Toshio Matsuura Love Play Dance Release Party in Osaka & Mark de Clive-Lowe Japan Tour 2018 (Crossover/Disco/Latin) • LIVE: Mark De Clive-Lowe • DJS: Toshio Matsuura, Shuya Okino + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥3,000/1D) • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 066373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

World Kyoto

Phc feat. Inga Mauer (Techno)

World Peace Love #3 feat. Jonas Blue (Future House/EDM)

• DJS: Inga Mauer, Yousuke Yukimatsu, Halptribe + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D. Under 23YRS: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

• DJ: Jonas Blue, Taku-hero, Sa!d, Yuichi, Kazuya Tanimoto, Gy.T + more • OPEN: 5pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥5,700/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-213-4119 • world-kyoto.com

Wave XXX – Dark Core Luv Psychedelic Party- (Psychedelic Trance) • DJS: Sion ★ Akihabara, Mi-Bou, Happy, Hamase, Noise Gust + more • OPEN: 12:00am • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D & Food • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • iflyer. tv/ja/venue/9199/ • twitter.com/ waveosaka1

30 (Mon) Circus Rack feat. Yung Bae & Buddhahouse (Future Funk/Nu Disco/Hip Hop) • DJS: Yung Bae, Buddhahouse, Ashikaga, U2ki, + more • OPEN: 5pm12am • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D (ADV: ¥3,100/1D, Under 23yrs : ¥1,600/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

23 (Mon) Hokage Hokage presents Naniwa Ambient (Ambient/Noise/Industrial)

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

Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: Black Panther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War 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: The 15:17 to Paris, Black Panther, Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House, The Greatest Showman, Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, The Pentagon Papers • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle • From Apr 7: Loveless • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War 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: The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Happy End, The Last Word, The Sense of An Ending, The Lure (POL), 120 Beats per Minute (FRA), The Confessions, Les Liaisons dangereuses • From Apr 6: Wonderstruck • From Apr 7: Slogan • From Apr 14: In The Fade, Hokusai: Old Man Crazy to Paint, The Way He Looks • From Apr 21: La Grande Illusion • From Apr 27: Patti Cake$ • From Apr 28: The Square Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Theatre Umeda Now showing: David Lynch: The Art Life, Whisky Galore, A Fantastic Woman, In Bloom, Centaur

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• From Apr 7: Lucky • From Apr 14: The Only Living Boy in New York • From Apr 21: Eye on Juliet • From Apr 28: Hampstead Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, The Greatest Showman, Black Panther, Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Dangal • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name 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: Black Panther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name 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: Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, Pentagon Papers, The Commuter, The Greatest Showman, Black Panther, Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris, Maudie • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Wonderstruck, Dangal • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. From Apr 6.

• From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Patti Cake$ • From Apr 28: Hampstead, The Square Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Kyoto Movix Kyoto Now showing: Maudie, Downsizing, Black Panther, The Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris, The Last Word, The Greatest Showman, Three Billboards, Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, The Pentagon Papers, The Commuter, MET: Puccini: La Boheme • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Wonderstruck, Dangal • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Patti Cake$ 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: The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Welcome To Germany, Django, 120 Beats per Minute, Manchester by the Sea, Gifted • From Apr 7: The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Life Animated, Body,

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

Francofonia, Sense and Sensibility, • From Apr 14: In the Fade, Le confessioni, A Fantastic Woman, The Rainbow Thief, Denial • From Apr 21: Dancing Beethoven, The Remains of the Day • From Apr 28: The Square, The Old Gun, Heartstone, Detroit Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo Now showing: Black Panther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter • From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Dangal • From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising • From Apr 20: Ready Player One • From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name Tel: 075-813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Hyogo Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Now showing: Maudie, Downsizing, The Big Sick, MET: Puccini: La Boheme • From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York Tel: 078-230-3580 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st and 20th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Classifieds & Jobs CLASSIFIEDS

Japanese or English. Saturdays 10-12 am. Course material provided for free. Near SakaisujiHommachi and Kitahama. Call: Moritomo Ken 06-6572-6877.

Website: https://sites.google.com/ site/osakasoroban/abacus-classes • Contact: mail@osaka-abacus.com

For Rent

1R CHIBUNE AREA, 49000YEN/ MONTH SEMI FURNISHED 4TH FLOOR CORNER APARTMENT. 16 square meters, with refrigerator, washing machine, curtains, lights, gas cooking range, study desk/ chair. gas/electricity additional.

Water/insurance/internet included. 6month min. contract, no key money, no sales fees, No service fees, 1month refundable deposit. Alex 09037030314. Price: 49000 • Pickup location: 4-13-7 owada, Nishiyodogawa-ku, Osakashi (5min walk from Chibune station) • Website: http://www. abhousingosaka.com • Contact: alex@abhousingosaka.com

2DK BENTENCHO FULLY FURNISHED 90000YEN/MONTH 4TH FLOOR APARTMENT. 45 square meter, 1 bedroom 90000yen. Fully furnished with all needed for a comfortable stay. All is close by: shopping, downtown Osaka city. 6min walk to Bentencho subway and JR stations. 3month min. stay required. No Key money, No Guarantor required, No Sales/ Service Fees. Utilities additional..

Price: 90000 • Pickup location: 3-10-19 Minami Ichioka, Minatoku, Osaka-Shi • Website: http:// www.abhousingosaka.com • Contact: alex@abhousingosaka. com

Community Clubs and Groups 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

KANSAI SCENE CYCLING CLUB. Join like-minded cyclists for gentle jaunts into the Kansai countryside. Sometimes. Hey, we're all busy people right? Why suffer alone when you can suffer together? Share and discover the best routes in the region and meet some fellow weekend warriors. Rides will start/end in Osaka for the time being. Join us on Strava: https://www.strava. com/clubs/kansaisceneCC

Announcements DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?.

TELL Lifeline needs listenersTELL Lifeline Kansai team is looking for listeners. Spring 2018 training program starts on Feb 24 (all online training) Find more information here: http://telljp. com/lifeline/pctraining/ or contact kansai@telljp.com

JOBS Teaching OSAKA

Many more jobs and classifieds online at Kansaifinder.com

SPRING 2018 CORPORATE LANGUAGE CLASSES. part-time.

CES is seeking corporate class teachers of all languages for Regular Daytime, Evening classes, Spring Intensives in all areas of the Kansai area. 3,500-4,000 yen per hour, If interested in applying, please email Resume with Availability to mark@ cesjapan.co.jp.

PART-TIME PRIVATE TEACHING JOBS IN ALL KANSAI AREA. part-time. Looking for private language students? Pick your own lesson fee, schedule and location and then students will directly contact you! Available for : English, Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Burmese, Cantonese and Arabic..

Salary: around 2,500-3,500 per hour (negotiable) • Company Name: hello-sensei.com • Website: https://hello-sensei.com/en/sensei • Contact: contact@hello-sensei. com

Looking for something else?

Kansai Scene Classifieds and Jobs are now online at Kansaifinder.com

Place your own ad today

It's free for online listings or just ¥3,000 per month for your ad to appear in print. Post and pay online.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

27

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

Hyogo

Kyoto

Osaka

Shiga

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

Nara

Mie

Wakayama

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

Trains and Subways

Airport Transfers

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

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

» Tip: Pick up a Railway Network

map from a major station or Tourist Information Center.

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

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

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

KYOTO

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 or 4G 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

Hotels and Guesthouses

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

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

29

Osaka North (Kita) MAPS & INFORMATION ho

-c D C Maruzen & ki Junkudo za a Osaka Loop Line Post Office InterContinental ak Club N Osaka Club Noon Hub Azul Hotel Cine Libre Noon+Cafe ri Kitano New Hankyu Hankyu do Umeda Sky Umeda Hosp. aOsaka Hotel Umeda Sta. Grand Front Building m ji o Kinokuniya Osaka / German k a 1 1 iy Knowledge Consulate H&M OWL Osaka M Westin 35F Capital Yodobashi Hankyu Ogimachi Hotel Tourist Toho umeda Camera Park Center Annex TRAD Hotel Osaka Shangrila Hep 5 Kinki Umekita YWCA Hep Navio Plaza Hankyu ade Craft Beer idori Arc Osaka Station Grand Bldg Toho Cinemas Higash Base Umeda Hankyu City Cinema Lucua Hankyu Dept.

JR Osaka Sonezaki Lucua 1100 Daimaru Police H.Q. Osaka Club Umeda a. t S Quattro Visitors’ Station City da e Information Hotel Um Hanshin Granvia shin Center Dept. n Hilton Ha Junkudo 2 2 Umeda 6F Plaza West Hotel Burg7 Hilton The Blarney Kansai Always Drop Inn Hotel Stone Dai-4 Herbis Osaka Maru Tower Bldg. 1F Hearton Ent Bldg. Records Hotel 3/4F TGI Fridays Hotel Nishiumeda Osaka Dental Clinic Dai-3 3RD WORD Beer Monterey Dai-2 Bldg.

Dai-1 Creamy Osaka Herbis Bldg.

Bldg.

2F Osaka Exeo Ritz Kita Shinchi 33F Tanimachi Lin Carlton .2 e o Captain 1F N ute Kangaroo o R . a t Mister aS Kelly’s im sh 7F Hotel ku Outback Fu Daiwa Hanshin US Steakhouse 3 3 Dojima Avanza e Homes Consulate Lin a.

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A

Theater Umeda

B

da Ume

Shin Midosuji

Higa

Nishi Umeda

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Mid

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Kita Shinchi

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Yotsubas

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Grand Cube Osaka

APA Villa Hotel

YMCA

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Edobori Craft Beer Base Garden

Utsubo Park

Daiichi Group Kitamido APA Sōai Hotel High School Honmachi

30

5

OSTEC Exibition Hall

Honmachi Dori

A

Hanshin Expressway B

Elmers Green Cafe

il Bar Central Banco

Utsubo Tennis Center

6

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kitahama

Starbucks

Chuo Odori C Honmachi

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

St. Regis Hotel Osaka

Hooters Osaka

Hard Rock Cafe Osaka 0 Chuo Line

Sakaisuji Line

Naniwasuji

i

suj ike ida

Am

TAKAMURA Wine & Coffee Roasters

Nii Fine Arts

Maekawa Law Firm

Midosuji

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bo

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Sumitomo Hosp.

Honmachi

Na

Rihga Royal Hotel

Kitahama

Kitahama

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Higobash

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Starbucks 6

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Osaka South (Minami)

B

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Mizuho Bank Nagahori dori

Nishiohashi

7-ELEVEN

Hotel Via Inn

bi-grace nail Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

MinamiHorie

Naniw

a-suji

3

Triangle

Tezukayama Gallery 2F Westwood Bakers Orange Stree t (shopping street)

The Suite

Apple Store

Joule

Ghost Ultralounge

Moonshine Moon Tower

Music Bar S.O.R.a

Cross Hotel

Slices

APA Hotel

Dotonbori Hotel

Namba Hatch

Balabushka 4F Mustang

Kansai Tourist Information Center

Don Quijote

Comfort Minami Hotel The Blarney Police Stone Station Suomachi-dori B1 (Europe street) JANUS Bar Jaai

Higashi- soma Shinsaibashi Vanity

Soemon-Cho

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Namba

Absinthe Solaar 8F

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Toho Cinemas Namba

Takashimaya Dept. Store

Maruzen

Fraser Residence

MUJI/LOFT Tower Records

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka Nankai Namba Station

6

Misono Building

Namba Plaza Hotel

K2 record

NAMBA PARKS CINEMA

Naniwa Sports Center

Otaroad

Pub Bar 30 2F

Jack & Queen Naniwa Ward Office

Kuromon 5 Market

Sofmap

Animate Nihonbashi Shop

Toys”R”Us

B

Jazz Bar B-Roxy

NipponBashi

Namba PARKS

Naniwa Post Office

A

Singh’s Kitchen

APA Hotel

McDonalds

Namba -naka

Nipponbashi sta.

Namba Oriental Hotel

Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Naniwa Park

Namba Washington Hotel

Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn

BIC Camera

Visitors Information Center

Hotel Ichiei

3

ibis Styles Kaneyoshi Ryokan Osaka

Don Quijote

Sennichimae line

Little Long Beach

Inari

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

4

Namba Sta.

Casa Lapichu

Cinquecento

Kinryu Ramen Osaka Shochikuza

ba

Junkudo

2

2F

Namba

Nam

OCAT

Ark Hotel

3F GS Travel

Mexico ALZAR Rooftop Bar OO

Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

Nagahoribashi

Murphy’s

Namba Hips Tominaga Hospital

4

Yamaya

Shinsaibashi

FootRock &BEERS

2F Daimaru Dept.

South

Sun Hall

Coolabah L&L

River

Cinem @rt

Triangle Park

Ohno Memorial Hospital

Dotonbori

The Silver Ball Planet

Big Step

5F Boy

Daimaru Dept.

Vano

Circus

Horie Park

OPA

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Granknot Coffee

Banco

Cafe Absinthe

Nest Hotel

GAP

Uniqlo

Daimaru Dept.

North

Nikko Hotel

Via Inn

EXODUS

Craft Burger

TABIJI Kitchen

Critters Burger

Midosuji line

Covent Garden

Saboten

Tokyu Hands

1

Hearton Hotel

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Yotsubashi

Bistro New Orleans

2

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Shinsaibashi

Sauce Boss

D

Louis Vuitton

Toyoko Inn

KitaHorie

D & Dept.

MoeJoe

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Namba Shrine

Hearton Hotel

Yotsubashi line

1

C

Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

A

Sakaisuji line

MAPS & INFORMATION

C

Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba

0

6

N

100m D

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

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Osaka Tennoji Area MAPS & INFORMATION

e Osak

a Lo op L in

Tanimachi Line

Abeno Q’s Mall

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Kansai Kyoiku University

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ROCKTOWN 4F

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CocoMomo&Co.

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Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Art

Tennoji Zoo

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Tsutenkaku

Shitennoji Honbo

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Shin

1

Sta.

a i Sh in-Im amiy a

Shin Sekai

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Hansh

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine

Ebisucho

1

2

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Osaka Castle Area

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Osaka Castle

Osaka Museum of History

Osaka Castle Park KKR Hotel Osaka Route Morinomiya Q’s Mall BASE

B

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

C

Morinomiya

Hanshin Expressway Higashi Osaka

2 Subway Im azato Line

Subway Tanim ac Tanimachi 4-chome

Osaka-j

Hanshin Expressway

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Pa

Kitahama

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32

ig

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Sakaisuji Honmachi

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Subway Sakaisuji Line

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Osaka-jo Hall

Osaka Prefectural Government Office

Subway Chuo Line

Kyobashi

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Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry

a

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Mint Museum

D i sh Kyo

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Osaka Tenmangu

Osaka Loop Line

A

Tozai Line

3

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400m D

Kobe

MAPS & INFORMATION A

B

C

D

Kitano Museum

Kobe YWCA

Kitanoseiryu Shrine

Hotel Piena Kobe

1

Shiei Yamate subway line

zaka Fudo

Kitano-cho aka terz Hun

Migration Museum ri -do oto am m Ya

Kitanosaka Hosp.

The Rock et tre 2F rl S a Pe Kobe Sansei Hosp.

Womens Kobe Junior Grocers St. Michael’s Kobe College 2 International Mosque School n Sun City e ns Hobgoblin 7F Junkudo ka Ikuta Police 7F ate m Station OS Cinemas Midnight Ya Kobe Mint Kobe Ikuta jinja 5F Halal Food Hotel Tower a Mickey’s y Oriental Iznt i Records Tokyu Inn Club om 4F Dental n n 5F a Sa Tokyu Clinic Hotel miy Hotel nno Tor Road Monterey Hands Sa 4F SOGO Dept.

Varit 5F Kinokuniya Ali’s Kobe Kokusai Troopcafe Kitchen Kaikan Marui 3F 3 1F HSBC e 2 San Plaza ut do Ro Kobe Kokusai Center u s Center Plaza East et Shochiku Isogami ut Plaza t. ok Park iya ae s West os m m k o i n oke n e a Junkudo Sannomiya b S nad Ko Cine Phoenix Ha Palmore KRAC e lin Hosp.

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Nankin-machi Raja Indian Restaurant

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Cafe Fish!

Shinko-Cho

Hotel Okura Kobe Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland

Kobe Maritime Museum Jumbo Ferry Terminal

Meriken park 6

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

5

6

N Kobe Cruise Luminous Kobe 2

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental B

0 C

200m D

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Kyoto MAPS & INFORMATION A

B

C

D

Club Metro

1

Kiya Cho

Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto

LAB.TRIBE

Nijo-dori

Irish Pub Gnome Kyoto City Hall

H&M

Hankyu Line

Marui

Gion s hijo

World Kawaramachi

Hanamikoji-dori

Yamatoji-dori

ori awa-d Shirakkawa river Shira JAM Hostel Kyoto Gion

OPA

Junkudo

Fuji Daimaru

Sanjo

Maruzen

Gypsy

Tatsumi Bridge

The Gael Irish Pub Shijo-dori

Ryoshoin

Kacho-michi

Gion

4 Genkoin

Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art

Yasaka Jinja

Maruyama Park

Apa Hotel

Minami-za Theatre

Takashimaya

3

Higashiyama

Wakamatsu-dori

Butterfly Kitsune Kyoto Kyoto Bal

Hana hotel

Sanjokeihan

Sanjo

Sanjo-dori

Kawaramachi-dori

Kawara Machi

HUB

Keihan Line

Hotel Vista Premio Kyoto

Pig & Whistle

Pontocho

Movix Kyoto Mina

Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

Oike-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

Gokomachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

4

2

National Museum of Modern Art

Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa

Tourist Information Center

Jomo Gas

Okazaki Park

Library

Miyako Messe

Hotel Okura DUBLIN

Honno-ji

Gear

ROHM Theatre Kyoto

Gastro Pub Tadgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Tozai Subway Line Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

3

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art Annex

Higashi Oji - dori

Aeon Shopping Mall

The Ritz Carlton

2

1

Heian Shrine

5

5

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Teramachi Area

Riv er

Kaosan Kyoto

Guest House Rakuza

Kam

Kyoto Municipal Museum of School History

Kyoto bAKpAK Gion hostel

Kenninji

Ebisu Shrine

Nawa Clinic

6

Kodai-ji

KamibentenCho

The world's smallest Ukiyoe museum

6

N Ninenzaka

A

34

B

Higashiyama Ward Office

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com

0 C

200m D

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