Kansai Scene #152 January 2013

I’m free. Go on, pick me up.

無料 issue 152 January 2013

www.kansaiscene.com

Happy New Year!

Find your free 2013 Kansai Scen calendar inside e …

Say hello to the Year of the Snake where to pray, what to eat, best winter holiday and a whole lot more…

+ Where To Go And What To Do — Kansai listings, news, info, maps and classifieds

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Contents Features Kansai’s secretive snakes

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Osechi ryori

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Where to pray in Kyoto

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Travel

© Ayako Motonaga / DMOARTS.COM

Features

COVER ARTIST: Ayako Motonaga

Niseko, Hokkaido

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See more of Ayako’s beautiful work at her exhibition at DMO Arts in Isetan Umeda this month (Jan 16–Feb 5).

Food and Drink

Gion, Kyoto

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Trois Dix, Osaka

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Have your say

Your hopes and dreams for 2013 p39

Listings Events & Festivals

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Art

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Club

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Classical Music

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Live Music

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Business Finder

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Classifieds p40 Maps p44

kansaiscene

@kansaiscene

Kansai Scene is published monthly by Mojoprint

Enquiries

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DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. We take no responsibility for the quality or content of advertisements. Public and private parties appproached by those claiming to work for or on behalf of Kansai Scene should call this office to confirm the truth of any such claim, especially where money may be involved.

A bit of history Kansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011. Now in its 12th year, the magazine provides articles, information and listings for the Kansai area.

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Make a date with KS ders of : Won lendar

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Fashion Wonder: Excited fans gather around a female cosplay fanatic at the Nipponbashi Street Festa, held every spring in Den Den Town, Osaka.

Photo: Jules Fulton

Human Wonder: People heading home 2013 Calendar long day’s work. from Kyoto station after a Photo: Rafael Roman

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March

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January

Ca 2013

February

KS — Happy New Year of the Snake from all the Kansai Scene staff and contributors. As a token of our appreciation for you, our avid readers, we present to you the Kansai Scene 2013 Calendar! Yay. The images on this year’s calendar were entered into Kameraoke, an annual amateur photography competition covered in previous issues of KS. This year’s theme was ‘The seven wonders of Kansai’. For more information visit www.kameraoke.com.

What, no calendar? Every issue of KS will have a calendar inserted into it, but if someone has swiped yours, not to worry. Just send an email to mailbox@kansaiscene.com with your postal address and we’ll ship one off to you. All that we ask is that you pay for the postage upon receipt.

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Showa Day 昭和の日

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Arthur Murray Swing into Spring Party

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Artwork down to a Tee KS — Thanks to everyone that entered the KS T-shirt design competition. The challenge was to create a design on the theme ‘Kansai’. We had a wonderful selection of submissions, featuring everything from giant robots and takoyaki to Kuidaore and Glicoman.

The entries were posted to our Facebook page and readers were invited to vote for their favourites. A big thank you to everyone that voted.

We are pleased to announce that Minikiki’s (aka Kirsten Bürisch: www.minikiki. com) weird and wonderful monster jam design was the unanimous winner, with its stylish depiction of a Kyoto pagoda surrounded by a band of quirky characters.

Kirsten told KS: “This design shows my typical illustration style – a collage of characters, doodled with markers. I have an imagination filled with odd monsters, cute bunnies and other crazy characters that I like to doodle whenever I get a chance. I am very much inspired by the works of Jon Burgerman, and the cartoon Adventure Time.”

As the winner, Minikiki will have her design printed up by the T-shirt gurus at Sweatshop Union and we’ll be giving them away to lucky readers throughout the year.

Winner

Top 3 entries as voted for on Facebook Left: Kirsten Burisch (Minikiki) Bottom left: Jeremy Veitch Bottom right: Nick Rees

City remembers earthquake Kobe — January 17 marks the anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, which took thousands of lives in 1995. An event called Kibo no Akari is taking place at Higashi Yuenchi Park in Sannomiya, where people will share experiences of the earthquake, focussing on the importance of kindness, charity and helping each other. For more information contact Kobe City Hall on 078-3318181. If you want to learn more about the earthquake, head to the Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution, which is an interactive

museum at HAT Kobe. This museum provides a wealth of English information and is also currently displaying photographs relating to the Tohoku disaster.

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International festival returns

Fancy a dance?

6, Uehonmachi,Tennouji-ku,Osaka

Kyoto — Don’t let those 1am dance laws stop you making some moves. A community dance program is being held in Kyoto right now, and no dance experience is needed to take part.

Dance 4 All intends to bring people of all ages and abilities together for a stage show in March 2013. There are twohour workshops being held, on Sunday Jan 20 and Sunday Feb 3, at Kyoto Art Center. Participants must complete an application form before the workshops.

Contact Kyoto Art Center on 075-2131000 for more information.

www.interpeople.or.jp/owf/english

http://en.kac.or.jp/

Osaka — The One World Festival, an event dedicated to promoting international cooperation, will be held over two days next month, on February 2 and 3.

It’s the 20th year for the festival, which provides information on issues such as peace, human rights and the environment.

Time: 10am–5pm Venue: Osaka International House, 8-2-

Ramen recruit for a day Osaka — Anyone can learn how to make ramen, and feed some hungry university students in a special one-day course now being offered in Nagase.

The course takes you step by step through the cooking process, and there’s some time out in the schedule to grab a beer and learn about ramen history and culture.

There’s a translator on hand all day to help if you don’t speak Japanese.

Once you’ve finished making about 30 servings of two ramen dishes, you get to serve it up to locals in the shop. Oh, and eat some yourself of course. For more information email macduckston@ gmail.com. www.ramenadventures.com/p/osakaramen-school

Mayor is a tweet rebel Osaka — Mayor Toru Hashimoto caused a stir on twitter last month by refusing to stick to national laws about party promotions. The law, first enacted in 1950, states that in the 12 days before an election, candidates can’t display or mass-distribute campaign information other than via pre-approved posters and campaigns. It was first created to ensure fairness across parties, regardless of their campaign budget.

Because he was not running directly for the election, Hashimoto decided to opt out of the Japan Restoration Party’s request to members to stop updating their internet sites. He not only defied the rule, but also told his 907,000 followers that he thought the rule was absurd, unreasonable and stupid.

“It’s been said that the established parties spent ¥35 billion on advertisements during the last election. In spite of this fact, my petty election campaign tweets are banned? What’s wrong with this Japan? This is something that the government should fix. But the government has been unable to lift this ban so far,” he tweeted angrily. @t_ishin

Keep on dancing Shinsaibashi — Arthur Murray’s Shinsaibashi studio, has been providing dance classes in Osaka for nearly 4 years and celebrates its anniversary in February. With over 280 studios world wide, Arthur Murray celebrated its 100 year birthday last year. To commemorate these milestones, the studio is opening it’s doors and inviting everyone to come and experience the fun and enjoyment of dance for themselves.

Try such classic genres as Salsa, Ballroom, Latin, Argentine Tango and Swing — all for free. Get your dancing shoes on!

Time: 5pm • Place: Arthur Murray Osaka Dance Center Address: 3-5-28, Minamisenba, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 542-0081 Fee: Complimentary, open house for guests Tel: 06-6245-1731 • Email: info@arthurmurray.co.jp • www.arthurmurray.co.jp

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Business matters

Make your next move a global one Thinking about your next career move?

Open up more global business opportunities with an Englishtaught MBA programme right on your doorstep.

Text: KS Images: Doshisha University

Many people come to Japan on a teaching contract, be it JET or otherwise.

The job can be fun, and give you lots of new skills, but are there other things you could be doing here to help inch up the career ladder? For those interested in developing their business and management skills, the answer is a definite yes.

The Global MBA is a two-year programme taught completely in English at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan. It currently has around 38 students from 19 countries, and Doshisha itself has an impressive alumni that work for global firms such as P&G, as well as leading Japanese firms including Daikin, Konica Minolta, Kyocera and Panasonic.

The curriculum features core business subjects as a starter, but then students can choose what they are most interested in studying to create a tailored MBA. There are three main focus areas: Business in Asia, Green Business, and Culture and Creativity.

Business in Asia is designed to help students understand and navigate the Asian business world, with all its diverse practices and people. Green Business looks at the theory and practice of managing businesses in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. Culture and Creativity focuses on management in the fast-growing areas of pop culture, manga, video games and more.

Because it caters for students who are often new to Japan, Doshisha offers all MBA students free Japanese lessons. If students already have a strong command of Japanese, they can take Japanese MBA modules and interact with Japanese business managers.

Angela Troianos is currently taking the MBA programme. Originally from Chicago, USA, she joined the course after teaching with the JET programme. “To tell the truth, although graduate school was always my goal, I never really considered an MBA before,” she told KS. “I had a very specific vision for the type of graduate experience I wanted, as well as the skills I wanted to gain. Before discovering Doshisha, I was uncertain if there was an MBA program that could satisfy all my conditions.”

After attending an open day, and speaking with students and professors, Angela found the Global MBA course actually ticked all the right boxes.

Aside from an interest in learning more about Business in Asia, she says: “Doshisha’s commitment to sustainable business was the main reason I chose to come here. I’m very interested in CSR (corporate social responsibility), which is still a relatively new field for some Asian companies.”

While the workload can be demanding, Angela thinks it’s a great learning curve in time and resource manage-

ment. “One of the most valuable things about my program is my classmates. I find that I greatly benefit from the time I spend with them, both in and out of the classroom. I feel like I am part of a truly international community and the diversity of our backgrounds is reflected in the richness of our class discussions.”

When she graduates, Angela hopes to join some of the alumni by working at a top Japanese company. She hopes to stay in Kansai too, but with Doshisha’s global connections, her options certainly aren’t limited to Japan.

She adds: “There are interesting opportunities to study abroad in the second year. The school also brings in a number of specialists from around the world to teach short-term, week-long intensive classes on a wide range of topics. In addition to normal classes, we really benefit from Doshisha’s extensive business network as guest lecturers drop by regularly.”

There’s a world of opportunity out there, and for many ex-JETs like Angela, Doshisha is providing another stepping stone to an international career.

For more information on the Global MBA, contact Doshisha Business School Website: http://gmba.doshisha.ac.jp Email: ji-gmba@mail.doshisha.ac.jp

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Feature

Snake-spotting in Kansai Snakes! Where? Everywhere! But don’t panic, because they’re mostly harmless. As 2013 is the year of the snake, KS slithers a little closer to the truth about our reptile friends.

Text: Tom Fay

Of all the wildlife in the world, snakes are by no means the cutest or cuddliest.

Indeed these scaly, legless animals often invoke sheer terror into the hearts of otherwise nature-loving folk. But snakes are a unique, fascinating, and dare I say beautiful group of animals, of which a great variety of species can be found right here in Kansai.

Snakes are cold-blooded limbless reptiles, lacking eyelids or external ears, with incredible multi-jointed jaws enabling them to swallow prey

Japanese Four-lined Ratsnake (Elaphe quadrivirgata)

many times larger than their head.

They can range in size from the 10 centimetre long thread snake to the nearly seven-metre giant reticulated python of Southeast Asia. All snakes are predators, but most species are in fact non-venomous. Having been around for more than 100 million years, they’ve adapted to live in a whole range of environments from deserts and jungles, to the highest mountains and even the oceans.

There are over 40 species of snakes in Japan, and a good number of these can be found almost on your doorstep.

But don’t panic! Snakes are shy animals that avoid people whenever they can, and contrary to popular belief, most are completely harmless (to humans) and reluctant to bite unless as a last resort. Due to their secretive nature, spotting snakes out in the wild can be a challenge, and often involves a bit of luck more than anything else.

蛇

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Mamushi (Gloydius blomhoffii)

Perhaps the most well-known, although still often misunderstood species, is the mamushi, a small greyish brown pit-viper. Adults are typically between 45 to 65 cm long, with a series of dark brown blotches running down the back, and have the triangular head shape typical of all pit vipers. Because they mainly feed on frogs, they are usually found on forested hillsides close to a water source or around rice paddies. The mamushi is not aggressive, and when approached by humans it tends to stay still, relying on its camouflage to hide. Unfortunately this means that it is sometimes inadvertently stepped on, and this is when bites occur. Along with the habu of Okinawa, the mamushi is considered to be one of the most venomous snakes in Japan, and a number of fatalities are recorded every year. But a good antivenin is available, so medical assistance should always be sought if you’re the unlucky victim.

One of the largest snakes in Japan, the Japanese green rat snake (aodaisho) can grow to two metres long. It is dark olive green with small dark blotches, and sometimes has dark rudimentary stripes running down its back. It lives in forest clearings, fields, rice paddies, and can often be found close to human settlements. It is not venomous, but is a strong constrictor, wrapping its body around its prey and squeezing until the unfortunate creature is subdued. This snake eats mostly rodents (hence the name ‘rat snake’), but can also climb trees to take birds and their eggs.

This snake is common in rice paddies, feeding mainly on frogs, tadpoles and fish. Due to its very peaceful nature and reluctance to bite, this species was once considered non-venomous, but we now know it has fairly potent venom, although fortunately accidents are very rare.

Asian keelback (Amphiesma vibakari)

Japanese Four-lined Ratsnake (Elaphe quadrivirgata)

A little shorter than the Japanese green rat snake, but often confused due to their similar appearance, the Japanese four-lined rat snake (shimahebi) has four much more distinct dark stripes running along its body. This very fast-moving species prefers sunny locations often close to water, where it hunts a variety of prey including frogs, small mammals, birds and eggs.

This snake is also completely harmless to humans.

Yamakagashi (Rhabdophis tigrinus)

Japanese Rat Snake (Elaphe climacophora)

The red-sided water snake (yamakagashi) is a medium-sized serpent, although females can sometimes grow as long as 150 cm. It is usually blackish or green with a pattern of dark blotches on its back, but this can vary tremendously, and in the Kansai area most individuals are light brown, with pink or red blotches on their sides.

The hibakari or ‘one-day snake’ is a small and slender brown coloured reptile, with almost no pattern on its scales. It is often found on the edges of rice paddies, where it slithers with its head held above the ground, seemingly scanning its surrounds. Its prey includes frogs, tadpoles and earthworms, and it is usually active in the cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning and at dusk. The name ‘one-day snake’ seems to come from the old belief that if bitten, the victim has only one day to live. In fact, this snake has no venom and is completely harmless to humans, but perhaps was sometimes mistaken for the previously mentioned red-sided water snake, which in Kansai can also be uniformly brown in appearance.

Of course being cold-blooded, all these snakes are currently sleeping through the long, cold winter. But come early spring they will emerge to eat and breed. So when the weather gets warmer in a few months’ time, and you’re out on a secluded mountain trail or passing by an old rice paddy, stop for a moment, tread lightly, and you may get a glimpse of one of our secretive serpentine friends.

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Kamaboko/蒲鉾

New year’s food: a field guide One of Japan’s annual food traditions, osechi ryori, is a multi-layered box of potential treats. Find out what’s what and eat your way to a year of health and prosperity.

Text: Adam Miller

For many expats, the festive season means turkey, tinsel and Christmas cheer. But in Japan, these holidays are all about the new year. From December 29 to January 3, most Japanese people will be enjoying a few days off work, lots of sake and a few traditional seasonal foods. Although warm mochi may be the most comforting food to eat over the winter break, osechi ryori is the most highly regarded. This elaborate bento box is filled with a variety of foods, each with their own unique story to tell. In the past, these pickled and salted morsels would see families through the national holidays when stores would close.

The three-tiered boxes themselves are known as Jubako (重箱), and are similar to your standard bento box as they stack together neatly. They range in size and price from a mere ¥1,000 at your local convenience store to speciality sets coming in at over ¥500,000 (for example, those sold in the Kaga or Noto regions of Japan). Each tier holds a different assortment of foods, separated into compartments to keep flavors from mixing. This tradition of packaging food in parcels has its roots in the Heian Period, over a thousand years ago, when it was forbidden to cook during the three-day new year’s celebrations.

A ground fish paste that, while not tasting too bad, has a texture some may find revolting.

Datemaki/伊達巻き This sweet omelet-like food, often mixed with fish paste or prawns, is said to bring on more days of prosperity and good luck in the coming year.

Tai/鯛 Better known as red sea bream, this tasty little treat guarantees a prosperous year as the “tai” could be taken from omede tai (おめでたい) or congratulations.

Kombumaki/昆布巻き If you want a really happy new year, this often slimy seaweed wrap is worth forcing down, as the Japanese word for joy, yorokobu (喜ぶ), is said to sound like the word for seaweed, konbu (昆布).

Nishiki Tamago/錦卵 Need to sort out the finances this new year?

Then eat up this egg roll. The yolk and egg white are separated before being cooked, resulting in yellow yolk that symbolizes gold and white for silver, which is sure to help keep your finances in eggcellent shape.

(Sorry for the awful yolk…I mean joke)

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Kazunoko/数の子 If you’re eating osechi with the in-laws, they may try and force a little of this herring roe on you, as it promises a bounty of healthy children in the new year.

Satoimo/里芋 These tiny peeled potatoes are as sticky as the nagai-imo root that makes tororo noodles. Although said to be extremely healthy, they can be a little hard to swallow (literally).

Tazukuri/田作り *not pictured These dried sardines may not be to everyone’s taste, but if you have to work in a rice field in the coming year, they might just be your best friend. The kanji translates as “to make a rice paddy” and it is said these little tykes helped fertilize the soggy fields way back when.

Kuromame/黒豆 Directly translated as “black beans” the word mame can also mean “health” in Japanese, so eating a few of these magic beans is advisable for anyone wanting a fighting fit year.

Kurikinton/栗きんとん Chestnuts may be popular in the west around Christmas, but these would go unrecognized by many an untrained eye.

The glazed, yellow spheres have a bitter aftertaste to them.

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Feature

Kyoto’s famous five You don’t have to go far to take part in hatsumode, the first shrine or temple visit of the year. But the extra legwork for these five top spots will make it a memorable start to 2013.

Text: Jeff Lo Image: KS

Shimogamo Shrine The buildings of Kyoto’s sprawling, venerated Shimogamo Shrine have been designated as national treasures.

The shrine’s leafy, covered approach – a cluster of ancient trees known as Tadasu no Mori (“The Forest of Truth”, for reasons indiscernible) – will take your breath away. As will the massive new year hatsumode crowds, who down warm amazake as they fight for space around the shrine’s conspicuous torii entrance gate.

Access: A 10-minute walk from

this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage spot keep the place plenty busy all year round, hatsumode brings things to an entirely new level. Though slightly frenetic, the atmosphere of Kiyomizu is also extremely pleasant. Standing in the crisp winter air watching scores of kimono-clad bodies on Kiyomizu Stage is a fine way to start the year.

Access: A 25-minute walk from Kiyomizu Goju Station on the Keihan Line.

For information: www.kiyomizudera.or.jp

Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan

Kurama-dera Temple

Line; if you get lost, just follow the crowd.

Although you’re about six months early for this mountain temple’s famed “snake-cutting” event (the “snake” is bamboo but the swords are plenty real), a January visit to Kurama-dera is another lovely way to start the year.

The air atop Mount Kurama is chilly, though, so wear plenty of layers – or bring plenty of warmed sake – to fend off the cold.

For information: www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp

Byodo-in Temple Arguably the most photogenic temple in Kyoto (the impressive Phoenix Hall was held in high enough regard to put on the back of Japan’s ¥10 coins), Byodo-in is surrounded by pond-accentuated grounds that offer a relatively quiet way to enjoy hatsumode. Relatively, we say; even though Phoenix Hall is undergoing renovation until March 2014, the crowds that flock to the shrine’s mountain-framed garden setting are still quite heavy.

Access: A 5-minute walk from Kurama Station on the Eizan Line; however, the 2-hour hike from Kibune-guchi Station is well worth it for the solitude and greenery.

For information: www.jnto.go.jp/eng/ location/regional/kyoto/kurama.html

Access: A 15-minute walk from Uji Station

Chion-in Temple

on the JR or Keihan Line. Again, let the

An embarrassment of sightseeing riches, as far as temples go. In addition to hosting Japan’s largest main temple entrance gate (standing 24 meters tall) and the country’s largest bell (67 tonnes; the story of how it was finally suspended makes for very interesting reading), Chion-in features an array of lovely garden areas that look spec-

crowds guide you.

For information: www.japan-guide.com/e/ e3923.html

Kiyomizu Temple And speaking of crowds! While the locals, visiting school groups, and international tourists that descend on

tacular wreathed in fall leaves, cherry blossoms, or – if you’re very lucky this month – a light dusting of freshly fallen snow.

Access: A 20-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line.

For information: www.chion-in.or.jp

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Travel

Go north, life is powdery there Hitting Niseko’s perfect slopes and resorts is the best way to embrace winter, writes powder professional Kristian Lund.

Text: Kristian Lund Images: Niseko Photography

There’s a long-running argument among those who have skied and snowboarded in Japan about where the country’s best ski experience is to be found. Google “Niseko or Hakuba?” and you’ll find hundreds of forum posts on dozens of websites dedicated to thrashing out the subject. But you probably won’t find an answer to your question because, well, there isn’t one.

Honshu’s Hakuba has bigger mountains and steeper slopes; Hokkaido’s Niseko has more powder and mellower terrain. And each has dozens of variables offering something for everyone in between – on and off the slopes.

So I’m not here to try and crack that old chestnut, but I am here to tell you all the good bits about Niseko. And of those, there are plenty.

First, let me set the scene: Niseko consists of four very different resorts – Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri – all with terrain to suit beginners to advanced skiers. The four resorts, which run down wide strips on different sides of Mount Yotei, are interlinked at the top and can be skied between with ease on an All Mountain Pass, or bussed between if the lifts are closed.

The villages at the base of each resort also offer very different experiences. Make sure you choose the one that suits you and your travel party.

Hirafu is basically the hub of Niseko.

It’s packed with restaurants, bars, ski schools, tour operators, shops and accommodation. If you ask me, this is the place you want to stay unless you’ve got a good reason to go elsewhere.

At latitude 42° degrees north of the equator, Niseko is a lot colder than its southern Japanese counterparts, which means one thing – powder! When moisture-laden storms cross the Sea of Japan from Siberia, conditions are ripe for any precipitation to fall as super light, incredibly dry powder snow.

Yippee!

This cold climate also makes for a long season. Generally the lifts start spinning in late November and shut down almost six months later after Golden Week at the start of May. January and February is “peak season”, when you might have to put up with a few other powder-seeking holidaymakers, but also when you’re very likely to get weeks on end where it will dump snow EVERY - SINGLE - DAY. And that’s no exaggeration.

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Tips for getting the most out of Niseko Ski passes True beginners can save with a “point ticket” (pay for how many lifts you use) or a five-hour ticket (all you can ride).

Those keen to explore every resort can upgrade to an All Mountain Pass (¥1,000 extra). You can buy passes at the base of the mountains.

Niseko’s semi-secret resorts Moiwa, a few minutes past Annupuri, offers some of the best relatively secret off-piste skiing in the area.

Rusutsu, about 30 minutes drive away, is Hokkaido’s biggest resort and will serve up fresh powder all day after it has snowed. Ask local tour operators.

Yumeguri Onsen Bus By far the best way to try the many hot springs dotted throughout Niskeo’s volcanic landscape. The bus (¥500) passes the most popular onsens, and the Yumeguri Onsen Pass (¥1,400) gives you entry to three participating onsen. Inquire at your hotel or local onsen.

However, one little local secret I’ll let you in on is this: if you’re into fair-weather skiing and want to avoid the crowds, March can offer the best conditions of the season for all types of skiers. In March it doesn’t snow as much but when it does, the hills come alive with the sound of locals hooting with delight as they plough through fields of untouched powder that stay fresh all day, often with blue spring skies to boot. The warmer weather is great for families, it’s easier to get bookings in all the restaurants, and there are always great accommodation deals for the last major month of the season.

Unlike so many Japanese resorts, in Niseko there’s still plenty to do when the sun goes down. There’s no donning a yukata and strolling around the hotel lobby; here, you’d better bring some decent threads to mix it with the après ski set. The resort boasts a thriving dining scene with everything from tiny izakayas to Irish pubs and Michelin-

starred restaurants. And when it comes to the bar scene – choose your own adventure! From umbrella bars to whiskey bars and Japanese reggae bars, you’ll find a party to suit your mood.

One thing that makes Niseko unique among Japanese ski resorts – and indeed Japan – is the foreign influence.

It would have to be one of the most culturally diverse concentrations of people in Japan. Not to mention an eclectic crew of creative Japanese skiers, snowboarders, chefs and artisans who have been drawn to the area’s magnificent Mt Yotei and started their own unique restaurants, bars and businesses. Places like the Gentem Café inside a Mongolian yurt tent, Gyu+ Bar with its fridge door entrance, and rainbow-themed snowboard school Teru’s Happy Vibrations, are some of the most interesting places to be found anywhere in Japan.

Put it all together and you have some of the quirkiest, coolest, snowiest little ski resorts in Japan… if not the world.

With several new low-cost domestic airlines starting direct flights to Hokkaido this year, there’s never been a better time to cross Niseko off your Japan to-do list.

Kristian Lund is a journalist, powder snow aficionado and publisher of Powderlife Niseko magazine and www.powderlife.com

Eat & Drink Tsubara Tusbara Local specialties loaded with local produce. Izumikyo, just outside Hirafu, on the free shuttle bus route.

Bookings usually not required.

Tel: 0136-23-1116.

Izakaya Rin Be sure to order their shime saba and sun dried squid tempura. Hirafu Lower Village. Bookings essential in winter.

Tel: 0136-22-1444.

Kamimura Enjoy a 10-course degustation at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Central Hirafu. Bookings essential.

Tel: 0136-21-2288.

Stay Shizenkan Backpacker For those on a shoestring budget.

Izumikyo (www.niseko-backpacker. com).

The Vale Splash out at Niseko’s premier ski-in/ ski-out location. Hirafu Upper Village (www.thevaleniseko.com).

Annupuri Village In a remote location, true alpine ski chalets sleeping up to 10 people.

Annupuri (www.annupurivillage.com).

Book these powder pads and more at www.powderlife.com.

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Language

海外生活日記

One point Japanese Want to know what the year ahead has in store for you? Duck into a shinto shrine and pick up a traditional omikuji paper fortune to find out.

Your fortune is decided by some form of lottery, depending on the shrine. You may have to draw a numbered stick from a wooden box or simply select a folded paper at random. Either way, you will end up with a small piece of white paper revealing your fortune.

Your luck, or lack of it, is commonly divided into seven categories, so look out for the kanji below. Whether you hit the daikichi jackpot or end up a daikyo loser, you can tie your paper to a tree, or other specially designated area, and wish for something good to happen. 大吉

daikichi

Big luck! You’re a winner.

中吉

chukichi

Medium luck. Not bad.

小吉

shoukichi

Small luck. Nice try.

吉

kichi

Kind of lucky. Could do better.

末吉

suekichi

Uncertain. The future is unknown.

凶

kyo

Bad luck. That’s unfortunate.

大凶

daikyo

Certain disaster. Watch your back.

Kansai Ben 関西弁 Kansai has its own colorful regional dialect. Each month we look at a new set of phrases to get you mixing it with the locals.

Saying thank you:

おおきに (ookini) おおきにすんません (ookini sunmasen) えらいおおきに* (erai ookini) *えらい: has three meanings in the Kansai dialect;

What is it like living in…

Thailand?

Mayuko Walmsley moved to Koh Samui, Thailand, to help realize her husband’s dream. She tells KS all about it. タイで何をしていますか？ 主人の仕事を手伝っています。彼は昔からサムイ島の美しさに魅か れており、将来サムイ島に住み、ディベロパーとしてヴィラ経営をす ることが夢でした。これがきっかけとなり今は、夢を実現して外国人 向けにヴィラの販売や観光客向けにヴィラのレンタルを行っています。 他にもジャングルサファリツアーやボートの手配など旅行代理店業 務も行っています。人生って不思議なものですね！ 普段何語を話していますか？どんな学習方法で？ 日本語、英語そしてタイ語を話します。話す相手によって変わりま すね。タイ語を学ぶために４～５か月間タイ語の学校に通いました。 サムイ島は小さな島ですが、世界中の方々が住んでいます。共通語 は英語になっているので、英語もタイ語も日々勉強しています。 タイに行って想定外に良かったことは？ 日本の素晴らしさを改めて実感できたこと。そして、毎日違った様子 をみせてくれる夕日を見ながら生活できること。微笑みの国タイで、 現地の方々の笑顔にも癒されています。あとは物価が安いこと、食 べ物がすごく口に合うこと、ちゃんとした治療を受けられる病院があ ること。いろいろな意味で、投資などのビジネスチャンスが山ほど あることだと思います。 サムイ島でお気に入りの食べ物をひとつ挙げてください。 たくさん有り過ぎて…（笑）新鮮な果物のシェークと美味しいタイ料 理を、ビーチで食べると、さらに美味しさが増します。たまに恋しくな るのは日本料理。来年早々に開店される居酒屋さんを楽しみにして います。関西人なので、どこの国に行っても、～クイダオレ～ですね！ ！ 将来、サムイ島に長期滞在/移住を考えている人に向けてアドバイ スをお願いします。 まず、タイ国は日本と非常に親密な関係にあるので、日本人が一般 的に受け入れられ易いですね。少しだけでもタイ語 を覚えたら、タイ人の方達が喜んでく れるから、より生活しやすくなります。 気候に恵まれており、ちゃんとした病 院もあるので、定年退職者やビジネス をやりたいと考えている方にぴったり だと思います。タイでは、自分はあくま でもお客さんだという意識を持つこと が大切です。現地の方々に敬意を示す 最良の方法は、少しでも言葉を覚えよう とする努力をすることだと思 います。後は、肩の力を抜い てリラックスして今を 生きること。

1) splendid, 2) tired and 3) very much. おおきに: comes from おおきい+に “very much”. Often used by

www.samuifever.com

the older generation and by local tradesmen.

www.invillaluxuries.com

For more lessons see: www.kansaiben.com

Kansai Scene is looking for freelance writers, illustrators and photographers. • Any nationality but a good command of English essential • All work on a freelance basis • Japanese ability an advantage

Send samples of your work to:

editor@kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Food & drink

Ancient setting, modern pleasures Forget Times Square. For some unique new year celebrations, try Gion in Kyoto, which has been partying since the 7th century.

Text: JJ O’ Donoghue

Jam Jam is the best of both worlds; a café and sake bar combined with a hostel, so when you’ve had your fill you can stumble upstairs to slumber. The one-year-old venue is run by Michinori and Aiko Ikeda, and is a great spot to mix with Kyotoites, Japanese and foreign visitors. Ask the affable and knowledgeable Michinori to guide you through the extensive sake menu.

KAWA RAMA CHI

SANJO KEIH AN LINE

Gio

MATSUBA

SHI

MINAMIZA THEATRE

YAMATOJI

-DORI

MARUI

AWA-DO SHIRAK AWA SHIRAK

JAM

IJO

KIYAMACHI-DORI HANKYU LINE

GION SH

OPA

PONTOCHO

I

Gion, one of Japan’s original pleasure quarters, mixes the refined with the bawdy. Its narrow streets bustle with teahouses, cafés, galleries, theatres, restaurants, hostess clubs, shrines and temples. On any day, a visit to this compact area that straddles the Kamo River to the west and Maruyama Park to the east will bring you shoulderto-shoulder with students on school trips, tourists from around the world, and the occasional (authentic) Maiko and Geiko dashing daintily between appointments.

Like the famous festival in July, New Year’s Eve in Gion is claustrophobic, especially on the streets directly in front of Yasaka Shrine.

The main thoroughfare is closed to traffic for a few hours around midnight. If you are coming to Gion during the break between December 29 to January 3, the best plan is to have no plan; in Gion it’s best to release the tourist in you. A wander along Hanamikoji or Shirakawa streets will be as close as you’ll get to classical Japan next to walking on to a movie set. But if wandering aimlessly isn’t for you, here are four destinations in Gion that offer a warm respite from the new year’s crowds.

OR KAWARAMACHI-D

20

EBISU SHRINE

Where to Hatsumode in Gion The first week of the new year in Japan is all about getting in the first visit to the shrine, called hatsumode. In Gion, this tradition draws phenomenal crowds that tend to converge on Yasaka Shrine.

But of course, Yasaka isn’t the only shrine in Gion; you can head for the much less crowded Ebisu

Shrine, where the god of good business resides. Or at Chionin, near Maruyama Park, where 17 monks

Address: Kyoto-shi, Tokiwacho 170,

ring in the New Year on Japan’s heaviest bell. And

Higashiyama 605-7009

if you want to skip the shrine experience entirely,

Open: Mon-Fri from 5pm; weekends and

venture down streets directly behind Yasaka to find

holidays from 2pm

Maruyama Park where you can celebrate the new year

www.jamhostel.com

with food, drink and music.

JO

Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Fugetsu 冨月 From the outside, Fugetsu is just another beautifully appointed ochaya or teahouse; step inside and it’s like entering a friend’s house. Head for the communal back room with a view of the interior garden where you can lounge for hours over tea, coffee, and Japanese and western deserts. Be sure to leave a message in the guest book; they have a collection of more than 50.

Address: Kyoto-shi, Higashiyama, Gion-cho, Minamigawa Yasakacho, 570-8 Open: 11am–5pm and 7–11pm. Closed Sundays

Matsuba 松葉

ORI

ORI

HANAMIKOJI-DORI

on

SHINBASHI-D

GION KAIKAN

KYOTO MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Address: Kyoto-shi, Higashiyama-ku, Shijo

IJO-DORI

OKO-IN

KYOTO GION HOTEL

As much an institution as the kabuki theater next door, Matsuba has been dishing up noodles since 1861. Occupying four floors on the corner of Shijo Avenue with views of Gion and the Kamo River, Matsuba does the best nishin soba (pickled herring) in town.

YASAKA JINJA

CHOURAKUKAN

CHION-IN MARUYAMA PARK

ohashi, Higashi-iru Kawabata cho 192 Open: Every day from 10:30am except Tues (open New Year’s Day)

FUGETSU

Chourakukan 長楽館 Chouraukan literally means an establishment where you can unwind at length.

The building dates back over a hundred years and looks more like it belongs in Victorian Britain than Maruyama Park.

It serves reassuringly expensive teas, coffees and lunches. This is a place to pamper yourself or impress your date.

Address: Kyoto-shi, Higashiyama-ku, Yasaka Torii-mae Higashi-iru, Maruyama-cho 604.

Open: 10am–10pm; afternoon tea 1pm–5pm daily.

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Food and drink

The perfect anti-excess menu Shooting for a healthy new year doesn’t mean you have to give up delicious food. Consider eating macrobiotic at Trois Dix. Text: Carla Avolio images: KS

Ah, January. A time when our bodies are reeling from a conga line of end-ofyear parties that all seemed to involve insane quantities of meat, sweets and beer (and why did we think it would be wise to finish things off with a round of absinthe shots?). If you’ve just indulged in too much Christmas food and New Year’s Eve booze, you’re probably in need of a detox. Enter Trois Dix, a macrobiotic restaurant with a philosophy of serving seasonal food in its most natural state. And in a city where salty, greasy b-kyu food rules, this restaurant is proving to be a winner with the health conscious.

“The place is very popular with ladies, who come with their children or girlfriends for a delicious and nutritious meal,” says owner Hayashi, who left the hotel and event industry to open Trois Dix in 2011.

The 54-seater restaurant,

which has an industrial-chic interior feel, has a trained Italian chef at its helm so the food doesn’t compromise on taste. Hayashi hopes this winning combination will put macrobiotic food on the local radar. “Unlike in Tokyo, where macrobiotic restaurants are popular, Trois Dix is one of the few places in Osaka that serves this type of food,” he says. “It’s my dream to introduce this city to the amazing taste and benefits of macrobiotic eating.”

Based on a belief in balancing the qualities of food, a macrobiotic diet is built around whole grains, in particular brown rice, as well as vegetables, pickles and legumes. Processed foods and most animal products are avoided, and seasoning is used with restraint. At Trois Dix, this philosophy translates into a menu that reinvents the classics with a twist: wholewheat pizza can be ordered with tofu cheese instead of mozzarella, and the omurice is served with brown rice in a wrapping of yuba tofu instead of egg. But despite the restaurant’s focus on the plant kingdom, Trois Dix also caters for meat-lovers, with dishes of seafood, fowl, pork and beef.

Interestingly, there’s also a selection of imitation meat dishes including tofu Bolognese pasta, and a fillet of “fish” made of barnyard millet and mountain potato. These golden, crumbed slabs won’t trick anybody into believing they’re actually consuming fish, but the dish is still a darn tasty way of adding whole grains and root vegetables to the diet.

The limited use of animal products means that vegans can also rejoice, especially in the dessert section. The homemade egg- and dairy-free cakes are divine, and the considered (read: dainty) portions will leave you feeling satisfied yet refreshingly guilt-free. So keep the instant ramen in the cupboard and try a macrobiotic meal. Your body, and taste buds, will thank you.

Trois Dix • Where: Osaka, Nishi-ku, Kitahorie 1-22-4 • Open: Lunch 11:30am-5pm; Cafe time 11:30am-midnight; Dinner 5:30pm-midnight; Closed on Wednesday • Tel: 06-6648 8336

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

This month in Kansai

01

1

2

3

EVENT

CLUB

ART

Details p.34

Details p.30

World Snake Fair, Osaka Details p.26

Emeralda Tablet @ Compufunk Records Backroom

The Treasure of Edo Painting - Rimpa and Jakuchu

8

9

10

11

ART

LIVE MUSIC

FESTIVAL

EVENT

Details p.18

Tetsudo Mokei Festival, Wakayama

Commemorating 800 Years of Hojoki (An Account of My Hut)

Sparks @ Club Quattro, Osaka

Toka Ebisu

Details p.32

Details p.26

Details p.31

16

17

18

19

CLUB

EVENT

CLASSICAL

LIVE MUSIC

Details p.34

Details p.26

Details p.29

Details p.32

24

25

26

27

ART

ART

EVENT

EVENT

Details p.31

Details p.27

Future Soul @ Circus, Osaka

Ferdi Trihadi and Andrzej Zamoyski: Hungry Oni Details p.30

Midosuji Talkin’ About, Osaka

Tsuneo Tachibana Exhibition

Lang Lang piano recital

Inoshishi Boar Matsuri, Hyogo

Lisa Loeb @ Billboard Live, Osaka

The Osaka International Women’s Marathon, Osaka Details p.27

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

4

5

6

7

FESTIVAL

CLASSICAL

EVENT

EVENT

Kemari Hajime, Kyoto Details p.18

Kirov Ballet performs Tchaikovsky ballets (Swan Lake) Details p.39

The Himeji Fire Brigade New Year Ceremony

Hatsumode at The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living Details p.26

Details p.6

12

13

14

15

FESTIVAL

EVENT

LIVE MUSIC

ART

Details p.18

Details p.27

Details p.32

Details p.31

Katsube Hi-Matsuri

Gafu-Ten Exhibition

Gran Rodeo @ Zepp, Osaka

Hirokazu Hashimoto: 4 1/2

20

21

22

23

CLUB

ART

LIVE MUSIC

FESTIVAL

NWS Presents 80 Kidz Sunset @ Owl Osaka

Pilot Plant Exhibition Japanese Identity

Details p.32

Konin-e Sasazake Matsuri

29

30

31

ART

LIVE MUSIC

EVENT

Gotye @ Big Cat, Osaka

Orchid Exhibition 2013, Hyogo

Details p.33

Details p.27

Details p.34

Details p.31

28 LIVE MUSIC

Patti Smith @ Namba Hatch, Osaka Details p.33

The Essence of Finnish Design and Culture Details p.31

Yuzu @ Osaka Jo Hall

Details p.18

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Jan 6

Events

The Himeji Fire Brigade New Year Ceremony Jan 6

FREE

Shirotopia Kinen Park, Hyogo

This is an annual ceremony called dezome-shiki, where the emergency services parade and demonstrate rescue drills. Come and give the Himeji municipal firefighting team a round of applause for their majestic performances. Keep a lookout for firefighters in traditional uniform. Their acrobatic stunts and balancing on high bamboo ladders are a must-see. There will also be a thrilling rescue drill from a tower block and live fire displays.

Enjoy a breathtaking water hosing show and a remarkable parade of fire engines.

Time: 9:30am–noon (performances will be cancelled if it rains) • Admission: free • Access: JR Kobe line Himeji stn, 20min walk • Tel: 079-223-9503

Event Listings World Snake Fair, Osaka Until Jan 14

This is a great opportunity for snake lovers. A large variety of snakes from home and abroad will be on display. As 2013 is the year of the snake, there’s never been a better time to learn about these reptiles.

Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥1,000 adults, concessions • Where: Osaka Business Park Enkei Hall • Access: JR Loop line Kyobashi stn/ Osakajokoen stn; 5min walk/ Subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi line Osaka Business Park stn • Tel: 06-6947-1912

Tetsudo Mokei Festival, Wakayama Until Jan 20

For all train enthusiasts, this is a golden opportunity to see some model train railways. See N-gauge models of bullet trains, and manipulate HO-gauge models.

Train models and collector’s items will be available to purchase.

Time: 10am–5pm (Closed Jan 8 & 15) • Admission: ¥500 (separate entry fee to Wakayama Marina City Porto Europe needed) • Where: Wakayama Marina City Porto Europe • Access: JR Wakayama stn/ Nankai Railway Wakayamashi stn bus to Wakayama Marina City • Tel: 0570-064-358 • www.marinacity.com/eng/

Hatsumode at The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living, Osaka Jan 3–7

Come and join Japanese traditional games in a town modelled on the olden days. Refreshments (a warm drink made with rice called amazake) will be served to the first 200 visitors on Jan 3.

Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥600 adults, concessions • Where: The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living • Access: Subway Tanimachi line/ Sakaisuji line Tenjinbashisuji6chome stn • Tel: 06-6242-1170

Sakagura-Biraki, Kyoto Jan 13 FREE

Spend the day enjoying the very best of Japanese sake in Fushimi, a traditional sake brewer district.

Sample the delightful new sake and try dumplings and soup cooked with sake. Kyoto vegetables will also be on sale.

Time: 11am–3pm • Admission: free • Where: Fushimi Meishu Kyodokumiai • Access: Keihan Railway Fushimi Momoyama stn, 5min walk • Tel: 075-612-6006

Nengajo–Ten Exhibition, Nara Jan 16–Feb 17

Come and see beautiful nengajo New Year’s cards filled with pictures and calligraphy. Enjoy browsing 300 cards collected from all over the country – every one of them is unique.

Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥300 adults, concessions • Where: Inukai Manyo Kinen-kan • Access: Kintetsu Railway Kashiharajingu-mae stn, bus to Okadera • Tel:0744-54-9300

Midosuji Talkin’ About, Osaka Jan 17 FREE

Network and exchange information with new people at this international cultural salon, Midosuji Talkin’ About. This month’s speaker is improvisational artist Jerry Gordon, who makes people more aware of their own hearing experience and the sounds of Osaka.

Time: 7–9pm • Admission: free • Where: Osaka Gas Building • Access: Subway Midosuji line Yodoyabashi stn exit 13, 3min walk • Tel: 06-6205-4545 (English / Japanese) • www.facebook.com/ MidosujiTalkinAbout

Chikusa Kogen Snow Festival, Hyogo Jan 18 FREE

Here’s a place where all the family can frolic in the snow. Take part in a snowman contest and an eating competition. Children can join sleigh races too.

27

Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Jan 10

Jan 10–13

Hoe-Kago Gyoretsu Parade

Gafu-Ten Exhibition

Jan 10

Jan 10–13

FREE

Soemon-Cho, Osaka

Miyako Messe, Kyoto

Things really heat up in this traditional festival as brightlydecorated palanquins, called hoe-kago, parade through the streets to Imamiya Ebisu-jinja shrine. Look out for national celebrities, gorgeous geisha and puppets from bunraku theatre inside these hoe-kago. With bearers cheering loudly, the dazzling parade starts at Tonbori Riverwalk and troupes through the commercial districts of Minami. Don’t miss the hoe-kago, illuminated romantically with paper lanterns, moving along the Dotonbori River in the evening. With constant applause and vigorous chanting, along with lots of ladies wearing beautiful kimono in the streets, the town will be full of festive atmosphere all day.

A large display of the fascinating art of Bonsai will be held at the grand venue of Miyako Messe. Appreciate fantastic artworks of miniature trees that are no taller than 20 centimetres. Be amazed by a demonstration of how bonsai trees are shaped by an expert. There will also be seminars on how to create an exhibition-quality bonsai. Workshops, a question and answer corner, and shops selling bonsai items and pot trees are also planned. In addition, an exhibition of beautiful kimono called kyo yuzen will take place alongside this event.

Time: 9:30am–4:30pm (9:30am–3pm on the 13th) • Admission: ¥800 adults, concessions • Access: Subway Tozai line Higashiyama stn; 8min walk/Keihan Railway Sanjo stn bus to

Time: 10am (plan is subject to change if needed) • Admission:

Kyotokaikan Bijutsukan-mae • Tel: 072-754-0481

free • Access: Subway Midosuji/Sennichimae/Yotsubashi/Nankai Railway/ Kintetsu Railway Namba stn • Tel: 06-6214-5925

Time: 10am–3pm • Admission: free • Where Chikusa Kogen Ski-jo Ski Resort • Access: one hour drive from Yamazaki IC on Chugoku Expressway • Tel: 0790-76-3555 • Fax: 0790-76-3399 • www.chikusakogen.com

Orchid Exhibition 2013, Hyogo Jan 19–Mar 10

With a riot of colour and heady fragrance, this orchid exhibition is an exotic feast for your senses.

Enjoy orchids displayed as seen in nature, and in the way of the samurai period.

Time: 10am–6pm Admission: ¥1,200 adults, concessions • Where: Awaji Yumebutai Kiseki no Hoshi Greenhouse • Access: JR Kobe line Maiko stn bus (intercity bus) to Awaji Yumebutai-mae • Tel: 0799-74-1200 • www.kisekinohoshi.jp

Rokko Ice Sculpture Festival, Hyogo Jan 24–29

Get ready for stunning artworks of ice sculptures at the Kori no Saiten. See giant ice works and be enchanted by shining, illuminated sculptures in the evening. There will be a giant ice slide for children, a workshop and booths for gourmets.

Time: 10am–9pm (3–9pm on Jan 24) • Admission: ¥500 adults, concessions • Where: Rokko Garden Terrace • Access: Rokko Maya Railway Rokko Cable line Rokkosanjo stn bus to Rokko Garden Terrace • Tel: 078-894-2090

Inoshishi Boar Matsuri, Hyogo Jan 26 FREE

Spend the day enjoying the very best of Tanba Sasayama’s local food: boar meat! Try mouth-watering boar steaks, stews and even hamburgers at this family event.

Enjoy hilarious but exciting uribo baby boar races!

Time: 10am–3:30pm • Admission: free • Where: Sasayama Castle Park • Access: JR Fukuchiyama line Sasayamaguchi stn bus to Nikaimachi; 5min walk

• Tel: 079-552-0758

Boro no Shibayaki (Field Burning), Wakayama Jan 26

Witness this dramatic field-burning festival. The spectacle started originally as an agricultural activity.

Be excited as flaming arrows ignite the grassland and enjoy various performances and tasty local dishes.

Time: 4:30pm–6:30pm • Admission: free • Where: Shionomisaki Boro no Shibafu in Kushimoto-cho • Access: JR Kinokuni line Kushimoto stn bus to Tower-mae • Tel: 0735-62-3171

The Osaka International Women’s Marathon, Osaka Jan 27 FREE

Top runners from home and abroad will race to qualify for the World Championships in Moscow. The runners will start at Nagai stadium, pass through Osaka Castle Park, run past Osaka Municipal Hall and Midosuji Street, and then

back through the park to finish at the stadium.

Time: 12:10pm • Admission: free • Where: Nagai Stadium • Access: For Nagai Stadium, Subway Midosuji line Nagai stn • Tel: 06-6633-9632

Makino Winter Festival, Shiga Feb 2 FREE

Make the most of the season at Makino Winter Festival, held in a hillside park blanketed with snow.

Various activities are planned for children, including music shows, TV characters’ performances, a snowman contest and much more.

Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: most events are free • Where: Makino Highland • Access: JR Kosei line Makino stn bus to Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa-mae • Tel: 0740-27-0936 • Email: jimusho@makinokougen.co.jp

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Festivals Jan 26

“This is a long-exposure photograph”

“Provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau”

Jan 12

Katsube Hi-Matsuri

Wakakusayama-yaki

Katsube Jinja, Shiga

Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park, Nara

FREE

Brave the winter cold to catch one of the biggest religious events in Shiga. The Katsube Hi-Matsuri has been designated a significant intangible folk cultural asset. This annual festival has its roots in a local legend telling how a thousand-year old evil serpent caused an emperor to become seriously ill.

After being discovered by a wizard, the serpent was killed and thrown into a fire, which led to the emperor’s recovery.

Although the snake doesn’t make an appearance at the festival, the fire is represented by 12 blazing torches and a roaring fire, beside which scantily-clad local men will perform a mad dance.

FREE

You can’t miss this magnificent spectacle in which 33 hectares of grassland will become a sea of flames. After a spectacular display of fireworks, you’ll see Mt Wakakusa burning bright red against the night sky. Although this annual activity can be traced back to the 18th century, its true origin is still unknown. Some say it started when villagers would set the mountain on fire to scare away ghosts. Nowadays, thousands of people come to enjoy this spectacular fire event, which sees Nara Park bustling with live performances and a variety of stalls.

Time: 6pm • Admission: free • Access: JR/Kintetsu Railway Nara

Time: 7:30pm (fires are set alight) • Admission: free • Access: JR

stn bus to Daibutsuden Kasugataisha-mae, 20min walk

Biwako line Moriyama, 5min walk • Tel: 077-583-4085

• Tel: 0742-27-8677

Festival Listings Kemari Hajime, Kyoto Jan 4 FREE

Fancy seeing how the Japanese royal family once spent their free time?

Head to one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto to see a re-enactment of a ball game popular in the Imperial Court during the Heian period.

Enjoy the sight of kemari players, wearing bright kimono, gracefully kicking and passing the ball in this elegant game.

Time: 1:30pm–3pm • Admission: free • Where: Shimogamo-jinja • Access: Subway Karasuma line Kitaoji stn bus to Shimogamojinja-mae/Keihan Railway Demachiyanagi stn, 10min walk •Tel: 075-781-0010

Toka Ebisu, Osaka Jan 9–11 FREE

Over these three days, a staggering one million people descend on Imamiya Ebisu-jinja to receive good luck for the year. Buying lucky bamboo branches and ritual goods, visitors pray for their prosperity to Ebisu, the god of business.

Time: all day • Admission: free • Where: Imamiya Ebisu-jinja • Access: Nankai Railway Imamiya Ebisu stn/Subway Midosuji line Daikoku-cho stn exit 3, 5min walk • Tel: 06-6643-0150

Onda Matsuri, Wakayama Jan 13 FREE

Enjoy a performance of classical Japanese comedy, held to ensure a bumper harvest in the coming months. The play, depicting ancient

farming, is easy to follow and will have you in stitches.

Time: 2pm–3pm • Admission: free • Where: Niutsuhime-jinja • Access: JR Wakayama line Kasada stn bus to Niutsuhimejinja-mae • Tel: 0736-26-0102

Tsunahiki Shinji – Tug of War Ritual, Osaka Jan 20 FREE

Head to Namba’s Yasaka-jinja to see a historical clash of the titans. This annual event is based on a Japanese myth about a god, Susano, defeating an eight-headed serpent. See locals weaving straw into a rope, which represents the serpent, and then battling it out in a tug-of-war.

Time: 8am (11am tug-of-war)

• Admission: free • Where Namba Yasaka-jinja • Access: Subway Yotsubashi line Namba stn • Tel: 06-6641-1149

Konin-e Sasazake Matsuri, Nara Jan 23

Drink to your health at Daianji Temple in Nara, where ceremonial sake will be served from a heated bamboo container. This rice-based wine is said to have kept Emperor Konin healthy during his 8th century reign, and is today considered to have anti-cancerous properties.

Time: 8am–4pm • Admission: ¥500 • Where: Daianji Temple • Access: JR/Kintesu Railway Nara stn bus to Daianji •Tel: 0742-61-6312 • Tel: 075-561-6155

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Classical music

Lang Lang. Photo ©Bob Krieger

Classical Musings Jan 18

Text: Michael Vezzuto

Happy New Year, fans of classical music! While all the big halls in the Kansai area feature the usual Viennese waltz programs, there are considerably fewer of these this year. But, you can look forward to some creative programming in 2013.

Hyogo Performing Arts Center starts the year in grand style with the Kirov Ballet and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine performing two Tchaikovsky Ballets on successive afternoons: Swan Lake on January 5, and The Sleeping Beauty on January 6. Now, if you’re looking at that second title and thinking, “Ah! I’d love to see this rarely performed masterwork,” plenty of concertgoers had this thought before you: there are at press time (the beginning of December) fewer than 50 seats left. However, there are plenty of tickets still available for the oft-programmed Swan Lake, all in the higher price range. If you’ve never seen Swan Lake, this is one of the better opportunities you’ll have.

If you’re looking for something on a smaller scale, The Phoenix Hall holds its New Year’s concert on January 10.

Titled Roman Spring Story, it features the Quartetto Avos (a piano quartet formed at the St. Cecilia Academy featuring pianist and director Mario Montore, violinist Mirei Yamada, violist Diana Bonatesta, and cellist Luca Magariello) in instrumental chamber performances and accompanying soprano Rosaria Buscemi and tenor Alessandro D’Acrissa. The program features the obligatory Radetzky March and Voices of Spring waltzes by members of the Vienna Strauss family, then goes Italian with the Ave Maria from Verdi’s Otello and fantasias on tunes from Verdi’s La Traviata and Puccini’s Tosca. Though little-known outside of Italy, these performers have big talent, and the program they’ve put together sounds like fun. There’s also wine service! A hall this small can easily

sell out (in fact, seats on the first floor are already gone), so act fast if this sounds like your kind of evening.

Chinese “superpianist” (that’s what it says on the poster!)

Lang Lang appears at The Symphony Hall on January 18 (he’s also at Hyogo Performing Arts a few days later, but that’s already close to being sold out). Lang Lang is a phenomenon and one of the world’s most famous pianists, having been seen by over 5 billion viewers when he appeared in the overwhelming opening ceremony for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Part Rubinstein, part Liberace, Lang Lang knows how to entertain as well as inspire. The program on offer here consists of three Mozart sonatas (K. 283, 282, and 310: rather unusual choices for such a flamboyant performer) and the four Chopin Ballades (what we expect from him). Admired and despised in equal measure, a performance by Lang Lang is guaranteed to stir the emotions.

Finally, I’d like to look ahead to the beginning of February and recommend a concert of music by contemporary Osaka-born composer Akira Nishimura, who turns 60 later this year. The concert is held on February 2 at Izumi Hall and features four works performed by the Izumi Sinfonietta conducted by Norichika Iimori.

The works in question are: KO (“Light”) for orchestra, Chamber Symphony No. 3 Metamorphosis, Concerto for clarinet and strings Bardo I (featuring Karl Leister as the soloist), and Chamber Symphony No. 4 Voice of Silence. Nishimura’s music uses a tonal idiom (i.e. it doesn’t sound like Schoenberg) and aggressive rhythm punctuated by haunting interludes, at least in the Chamber Symphonies. It was enough to make me want to hear more, so please join me and increase your awareness of what’s happening today in Japanese classical music.

Jan 5 (Swan Lake), Jan 6 (The Sleeping Beauty)

Jan 10

Jan 18

Feb 2

“Roman Spring Story” New Year’s Concert

Lang Lang piano recital

Music by Akira Nishimura

Kirov Ballet performs Tchaikovsky ballets Hyogo Performing Arts Center Dai Hall

Time: 3pm • Admission: A = ¥12,000, B = ¥10,000, C = ¥8,000 • Tel: 0798-68-0255 • Access: Hankyu Nishinomiyakitaguchi www1.gcenter-hyogo.jp

The Phoenix Hall

Time: 7pm • Admission: S/1F = sold out, A/2F = ¥5,000 • Tel: 0570-00-8255 • Access: 9min walk from JR Umeda Station. There’s a map on their website. http://phoenixhall.jp/ calender/2013/1#con10

The Symphony Hall, Osaka

Time: 7pm • Admission: A = ¥12,000, B = ¥10,000, C = ¥8,000, D = ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6453-5000 • Access: JR loop line Fukushima Station or Oyodo-minami-1-chome bus stop http://asahi.co.jp/symphony

Izumi Hall

Time: 4pm • Admission: ¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6944-1188 • Access: Keihan Kyobashi Station, JR loop line Osakajo-Koen station, subway Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokichi line Osaka Business Park station exit 1 www.izumihall.co.jp

Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Ito Jakuchu Rooster in snow 18c

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Jan 3–Mar 10

KS

Art

Pick

The Treasure of Edo Painting – Rimpa and Jakuchu KYOTO Hosomi Museum

If one were to talk about the history of Japanese painting, it would be hard to leave out the presence of Ito Jakuchu. He was part of Rimpa, a school of Japanese painting that was established in Kyoto during the 17th century. Other artists associated with this school include Tawaraya Sotatsu, notable for his Fujin and Raijin (Wind God and Thunder God) screens. Jakuchu was born to a family of wholesale grocers, and grew up working in the family business at Nishiki Market. At the age of 40, he left the store to his younger brother and spent the rest of his life as a painter. His paintings, filled with energy and strong sensibility, shocked many other painters during the period. He was especially fond of roosters and has left many paintings depicting them. While his vibrant

colored paintings such as the Doshoku Saie (Painting of Animals and Plants) are renowned, Jakuchu also created paintings using solely black ink, which will be on display in this exhibition.

Commemorating the 15th anniversary since Hosomi Museum's opening, this special exhibition will allow viewers to immerse themselves in the world of Jakuchu. Please note that during the exhibition period, the items on display will be changed once.

Paintings • Open: 10am–6pm; closed Jan 15 and every Mon (except Jan 14) • Admission: ¥1,000, ¥800 students • Access: Subway Higashiyama stn • www. emuseum.or.jp

Art Listings Kyoto Ferdi Trihadi and Andrzej Zamoyski: Hungry Oni 3F project room • Jan 24–29 • Video Games FREE

Open: 1pm–7:30pm; closed on Wed • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Shiyakushomae stn, Subway Karasuma Oike stn • www.3-gai.com

Hiroshi Naito: 18800 pieces 2012.6.13 Entrance Lounge, Kyoto university of Art and Design • Jan 6–14 • Installation FREE Open: 9am–5pm • Admission: Free • Access: Eizan Chayama stn • www.kuad-entrance.com

Soluble Fish: The Reality of Continuity (Part 1) Gallery Fleur • Jan 10–26 • Various Media FREE

Open: 10:30am–6:30pm; closed on Sun and holidays • Reception: Jan 12, 3–4:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: Eizan Kyoto Seikadaimae • www.kyoto-seika.ac.jp/fleur

Soluble Fish: The Reality of Continuity (Part 2) Gallery PARC • Jan 10–20 • Various Media FREE

Open: 11am–7pm (until 6pm on Jan 20); closed on Mon • Reception: Jan 12, 5:30–7pm • Admission: Free • Access: Keihan Sanjo stn • www.galleryparc.com

CRIA Exhibition Kyoto Art Center • Jan 9–29 • Various media FREE

Open: 10am–8pm • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Shijo stn, Hankyu Karasuma stn • www.kac.or.jp

Suda Kunitaro Exhibition Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art • Until Feb 3 • Paintings

Open: 9am–5pm; closed until Jan 2, and every Mon (except Jan 14) • Admission: ¥1,000, ¥800 university and high school students, ¥500 junior high and elementary school students • Access: Tozai Line Higashiyama stn • www.city.kyoto. jp/bunshi/kmma

The National Treasure Twelve Devas and the World of Esoteric Buddhist Rituals Kyoto National Museum • Jan 8–Feb 11 • Various Media Open: 9:30am–6pm (until 8pm on Fri); closed on Jan 15 and every Mon (except Jan 14 and Feb 11)

• Admission: ¥1,000, ¥700 university and high school students (Admission included for Hojoki Exhibition) • Access: Keihan Shichijo Stn or bus from JR Kyoto Stn • www.kyohaku.go.jp

Yuki Kimura: Interior 6L01–107T Taka Ishii Gallery Kyoto • Jan 8–19 • Installation

Open: 11am–7pm; closed on Sun, Mon and holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Gojo stn • www.takaishiigallery.com/en

Osaka Pilot Plant Exhibition – Japanese Identity CAS • Jan 12–Feb 2 • Various media FREE

Open: 2pm–7pm; closed on Wed and Thu • Admission: Free • Access: Namba stn • www.cas.or.jp

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Jan 10–Mar 10

Jan 8–20

The Essence of Finnish Design and Culture HYOGO Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

OSAKA Nadar/Osaka

FREE

4½ is a photographic series about a group of people who live in a 4½ tatami mat space in the backstreets of Osaka.

The photographs capture the people who come and go in this house, which functions as a hub for people who enjoy socializing and living the present at its fullest. The house was built a hundred years ago, and inside is a small tea table and a naked light hanging from the ceiling. It is like a mysterious place hidden in the urban forest. As people come and go, there are those who will meet again and those who won’t. As time passes, the photographs document what happens. The exhibition title refers to a quote from Federico Fellini's movie 8½: "Life is a party. Let's live it together."

For more information, visit Nadar’s website.

Open: 10am–6pm (until 8pm on Friday and Saturday); closed Jan 15, Feb 12 and every Monday (except Jan 14 and Feb 11) • Admission: ¥1,300, ¥900 university students, ¥650 high school students/age 65 and older • Access: Hanshin Iwaya Stn, JR Nada stn • www.artm.pref.hyogo.jp/eng • www.finland-design.com Kaj Franck "Tumbler" Series contemporary product (prototype 1955) © Iittala

Hirokazu Hashimoto: 4½

Without limitations of age, or gender, Finnish design has drawn a lot of attention internationally since the early 1950s and has had a significant impact on the global design scene.

This exhibition consists of about 350 artworks spanning the various fields of painting, literature, architecture and craft. It includes the products of designers and brands that heralded the golden age of modern design. The popular Moomin series is also highlighted, as a symbol of natural Finnish lifestyle. Characters from the world-famous story created by Tove Jansson will help explore keywords of Finnish lifestyle and design. In addition, the exhibition will introduce the national romanticism movement and artworks of other artists from the late 19th century to the first half of the 20th century, such as painters Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Pekka Halonen, architect Eliel Saarinen and many more.

Photography • Open: 11am–7pm; closed on Mon • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Shinsaibashi stn • http://nadar.jp/osaka • Storytelling by Kodomo Kyojin Jan 11, 12, 13 • The Night at the Yojo-han (Four and Half Tatami Mats) Jan 19

Hiromi Kakimoto + Mai Kondo + Rina Komatsu Exhibition

Open: 11am–7pm (until 5pm on Sat); closed on Sun • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Minamimorimachi stn • http://galleryhaku.com

Beauty and Techniques of Modern Ceramic Masters -Kenkichi

CASO • Jan 15–27 • Photography

Ryuzo Satake Exhibition

The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo • Until Feb 24 • Ceramics

FREE

Open: 11am–7pm (until 5pm on Jan 27); closed on Mon • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Osakako stn • www.caso-gallery.jp

type trip to Osaka Typographics ti:#270 ddd Gallery • Jan 18–Mar 2 • Typography

Open: 11am–7pm (until 6pm on Sat); closed on Sun, Mon and holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Namba Stn/Shinsaibashi stn • www.dnp.co.jp/gallery/ddd

Taihei Sugiyama Exhibition Gallery Haku • Jan 14–26 • Ceramics FREE

YOD Gallery • Jan 19–Feb 9 • Paintings FREE

Open: 12pm–7pm; closed on Sun and Mon • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kita Shinchi Stn/Subway Umeda stn • www.yodgallery.com

Hyogo Collection: Through the Other Side Itami City Museum of Art • Jan 12– Mar 3 • Various Media Open: 10am–6pm; closed Jan 15, Feb 12 and every Mon (except Jan 14 and Feb 11) • Admission: ¥500, ¥250 university and high school students, ¥100 junior high and elementary school students • Access: JR/Hankyu Itami stn • www.artmuseum-itami.jp

and every Mon (except Jan 14 and Feb 11) • Admission: ¥800, ¥600 university students, ¥400 high school students, age 65 and over • Access: Hankyu Oji-koen stn, JR Nada stn • www.ytmoca.jp

Open: 10am–6pm; closed until Jan 2 and closed on Jan 15, Feb 12, and every Mon (except Jan 14 and Feb 11) • Admission: ¥600, ¥500 university students, ¥300 high school students (Admission included for the Kayoi Tokkuri exhibition) • Access: Hyogo Togei Bijutsu Kan bus stop from JR Fukuchiyama Line Aino Stn • www.mcart.jp

Shiga

Inaugural Exhibition 1 Yokoo Tadanori: HANHAN-PUKU-PUKUHAN-PUKU

Open: 9:30am–5pm; closed on Mon (except holidays) and days after the holidays • Admission: ¥800, ¥500 concessions • Access: Sagawa Art Museum bus stop from Katata stn on JR Kosei Line • www.sagawaartmuseum.or.jp

Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art • Until Feb 17 • Paintings Open: 10am–6pm (-8pm on Fri, Sat); closed Jan 1, Jan 15, Feb 12

KichizaemonX: Sound of Darkness, Light of Silence Sagawa Art Museum • Until Apr 7 • Ceramics, Sound and Video Installation

Find more listings online at: www.kansaiscene.com/listings

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Jan 28

Jan 30

Feb 2

Patti Smith

Gotye

Tristan Prettyman

It’s pretty amazing to think that Patti Smith, the singer-songwriter, artist and poet, has been active on the music scene for over 40 years.

A pioneer of the New York City punk rock movement of the ‘70s, Smith made her debut album Horses in 1975.

With a fusion of rock and poetry, the ‘Godmother of Punk’ (as some have labelled her) was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.

In recent times she has focused her creative energies into photography and last year saw the first museum exhibition in the US of her work. Musically she also released the album Banga last summer, which was well received by critics, with one saying it “spits lyrics with the grace and determination of Mohammad Ali in his prime.”

Wouter “Wally” DeBacker, better known as the Belgian-Australian multi-instrumentalist Gotye, hit the big time in 2011 in the UK and US with the single ‘Somebody That I Used to Know.’ He was only the fifth Australian and the second Belgian to make the top spot of the US charts!

Bilingual DeBacker was born in Belgium in 1980 and moved to Australia two years later with his family. In his teens, the budding musician took up piano and drums and formed a high school band with friends.

Gotye’s current success is down to his own hard slog, recording his own music and sending out demos to radio stations in a bid to get noticed. As the saying goes “the more you sweat, the more you get.”

You can’t go far wrong if you’re being compared to the likes of Jack Johnson, which was the acclaim laid on Tristan Prettyman’s debut album Twentythree released in 2005.

The second album Hello…x released in 2008 was a long time coming, but became a success from the word go debuting at 27 on the US charts.

Her latest album Cedar+Gold was released in October of last year and peaked at 47 on the Billboard charts.

Receiving a good reception from the music press, critics have said that Prettyman “sings with an apparent honesty that is liberating,” as well as suggesting that the album “moves away from the surfer girl aesthetic of her previous records and moves into darker, more mature territory.”

New York City punk rock pioneer • Namba

Multi-instrumental Belgium-Australian

Californian Acoustic singer-songwriter

Hatch, Osaka • Rock-pop • 7:30pm ·

Newcomer • Big Cat, Osaka • Pop-rock

• Club Quattro, Osaka • 7:30pm

¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

• 7pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

• ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Live Music Listings Jan 9

Jan 18

Sparks Club Quattro, Osaka Pop • 7pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Jan 14 Gran Rodeo Zepp, Osaka

Rock • 6pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Jan 15 The Vaccines Club Quattro, Osaka

Indie • 7:30pm • ¥5,800 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Pop/Hip-Hop • 5pm • ¥5,250 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Guitar • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6342-5821

Beach House & Dustin Wong

Jan 19–20

Jan 19–20 & 22

Club Quattro, Osaka

Deen

Yuzu

Zepp, Osaka

Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Pop • 7pm • ¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6535-55691

Jan 19 Lisa Loeb Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka

Pop • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥6,900/¥8,400 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

XYZ→A

Pop • 6pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Jan 20 Saint Etienne Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka

Pop • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥5,000/¥6,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Shangri-La, Osaka

Jan 21

Seamo

Akio Yokota (Fried Pride)

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Mister Kellys, Osaka

Metal • 6pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Pop Duo • 19th & 20th-4pm/22nd6:30pm • ¥6,500/¥9,450 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Jan 23 Dresscodes Taku Taku, Kyoto

Rock • 7pm • ¥3,150/¥3,675 • Tel: 075-351-1321

Jan 26 Hilcrhyme Chicken George, Kobe

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Live Music © Photo: Christie Goodwin

Feb 2

KS

Level 42 It’s been 26 years since the single ‘Lessons in Love’ was riding high in both the UK and US charts. Although Level 42 had already been on the music scene for six years, it was Lessons, the band’s seventh UK top thirty single, that really propelled Mark King, Mike Lindup and the Gould brothers into the league of big time.

Jump forward to the present and King and Lindup are still at the helm of the group and have of late been keeping busy, especially on the live circuit. Mike Lindup recently told Kansai Scene: “We are always delighted to

Pick

be invited to Japan, our audiences are very enthusiastic and loyal. We have just completed a successful tour of UK, Europe and Mexico, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Running in The Family album. We will be putting together a special show for Billboard Live. We always have good time in Japan so February cannot come soon enough!”

UK ’80s Jazz-pop-fusion • Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka • Fusion • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥7,400/¥8,900 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Feb 2

Feb 3

Jan 30

Level 42

Buck Tick

Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka

Gotye

Fusion • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥7,400/¥8,900 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Namba Hatch, Osaka

Aiko Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Big Cat, Osaka

Tristan Prettyman

Feb 6

Hip-hop • 5pm • ¥5,000/¥6,000 • Tel: 0570-02-9999

• ¥6,000/¥6,500 • Tel: 075-351-1321

Jan 26–27

Pop • 6:30pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Jan 28 Patti Smith Namba Hatch, Osaka

Rock-pop • 7:30pm • ¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Jan 29 Chabo Taku Taku, Kyoto Guitar • 7pm

Pop-rock • 7pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

noon

Club Quattro, Osaka

Singer-songwriter • 7:30pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Billboard Live Osaka, Osaka

Female Voca • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥4,800/¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Feb 2–3

Feb 1

The Bawdies

Mono

Rock • 2nd-6pm/3rd-5pm • ¥3,300 • Tel: 075-351-1321

Shangri-La, Osaka

Post-punk • 7:30pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Taku Taku, Kyoto

Rock • 6pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-6882-1224

Shun Kikuta Chicken George, Kobe

Pop-rock • 5pm • ¥6,300 • Tel: 06-6882-12241

Feb 14–15 Dreams Come True Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Pop • 6:30pm •¥6,800/¥7,800 •Tel: 06-6341-3525

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Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Club Listings 2 (Wed)

Union

Compufunk Records Backroom

Mode (House) • DJs: Masa + more • Open: 3pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 066251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

Emeralda Tablet (House) • DJs: Mr.Raoul K, DNT, Yama, Rie Lambdoll + more • Open: 6pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • www.compufunk. com

3 (Thu) Circus Circus New Year Party! (Drum & bass) • DJs: Kenz1, Hiroshi, Nari, Massive, Kom, Toyo • Open: 8pm– 1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

4 (Fri) Circus

10 (Thu) Onzieme seven - black party- (House) • DJs: Emma, Nao Nomura, Osakaman, send, Asaura, kojiman, Bancho • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme. com

11(Fri) Circus 23 (Techno) • DJs: Zuyack + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Digital Vision (Techno/Trance) • DJs: Masaki, Show-Hey, Shu, Zoa • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Union

Union

12 (Sat)

Gloria (House) • DJs: K-Katsu, Hirame, Mizo • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

5 (Sat) Circus Circus New Year Party! (Techno) • DJs: Shinya Yoshida, Fujita • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Union Vino (House/Techno) • DJs: Yabu, Uoshima, Kino, Toshimi • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62512242 • www.club-union.jp

6 (Sun)

4Rapture (House) • DJs: Masaaki, Kunio Yasumatsu, Nagisa, Naoki • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 066251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

Circus Tightrope Dancing (Techno) • DJs: Ageishi, Tetsuo, DNT • Open: 7pm– 1am • Admission: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circus-osaka. com

G2 Out (Techno) • DJs: Breakbot, Ypy, Shinji, Taro + more • Open: 7pm - 12am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Before 6pm: ¥1,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6244-3177 • g2-osaka.net

Onzieme Cross (Techno) • DJs: Ken Ishii + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥TBA• Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • www.onzi-eme.com

Circus

Union

Calm - Open to Last (House) • DJ: Calm • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Extended Mix - New Year House Music Journey (House) • DJs: Peechboy, Daisuke Ito, Yusuke, Mayu, AFR • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

13 (Sun)

21 (Mon)

Circus

Circus

1st Ascension Release Party (Dubstep) • DJs: Doppelgenger + more • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • http://circusosaka.com

Uchuu Camp (House) • DJs: Yokoyama Uchuu + more • Open: 6pm–1am • Admission: ¥1,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Union Spaced Out - New Year House Music Journey (House) • DJs: Kent, Ageishi, Akihiro, Muramatsu, Yohey Kanae • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.clubunion.jp

16 (Wed) Circus Future Soul (Drum’nBass) • DJs: Toyo, MSK, ASO + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥1,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

18 (Fri) Union OSG (House) • DJs: Mitchy, Naoto, 244 aka 822, Shima, Shiba • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62512242 • www.club-union.jp

19 (Sat) Circus TetraLogisticS 2013 (Techno) • DJs: Pige, Kunimitsu, Yasuhisa • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Union Gulp! (House) • DJs: Osakaman, Mottsu, Hirouz • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

20 (Sun) Owl Osaka NWC presents 80Kidz Sunset (Electro/Rock/House/Tecno • DJs: 80Kidz, Taku-Hero, First, Akiraxx + more • Open: 7pm–9pm • Admission: Men: ¥2,500/1D, Women: ¥2,000/1D (Before 6pm: ¥1,000/1D) • Where: Umeda • Tel: 06-6362-0822 • owl-osaka.net

23 (Wed) Circus Future Soul (Drum’nBass) • DJs: Toyo, MSK, ASO + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: ¥1,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

25 (Fri) Circus Agile feat. Josh Wink (Techno) • DJs: Josh Wink, Monashee, Ryo Yoshida • Open: 7pm–1am • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

Union Mad House Now (House) • DJs: Kaito, Kano • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.club-union.jp

26 (Sat) Grand Cafe Bossanova Underground presents orange pekoe “Tribute to Elis Regina” (House/Brazilian Music) • Acts: Orange Pekoe, Yoshihiro Okino, Keisuke Taniguchi, Masaki Tamura + more • Open: 5pm - 1am • Admission: ¥3,500(ADV: ¥3,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62130031 • www.grandcafeosaka.com

Union Masterpiece (House) • DJs: Ise, Tsubasa, Yuzo Kenji Tazaki, Nao Ikeda • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6251-2242 • www.clubunion.jp

27 (Sun) Circus Numb “Helix of Light” Release Party (Techno) • Acts: Numb + more • Open: 9pm–1am • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • http://circus-osaka.com

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Kansai Business Finder Wining & Dining Absinthe Mediterranean Restaurant Cafe/Bar

Nishi-ku, Kita-horie 1-2-27 South Yotsubashi Bldg. 1F Osaka Tel: 06-6534-6635 Url: www.absinthe-jp.com

Asbinthe Solaar Roof Top Restaurant Cafe Bar & Beer Garden

Chuo-ku, Namba 5-1-18 Namba Dining Maison 8F Osaka Tel: 06-6633-1445 Url: www.absinthe-jp.com/absinthesolaar

Himalaya Indian Restaurant

Kita-ku, Umeda 1-2, Osaka Ekimae, Dai-2 Bldg. B1 Osaka Tel: 06-6545-6116 Url: www.meera.jp/en/himalaya

Meera Indian Restaurant

Chinese Cafe Eight

Osaka YWCA

Brastel Remit

Chinese Cuisine

Global Network of Women

Send money overseas

Chuo-ku, Soemon-cho 7-2 Luz Shinsaibashi 5F Osaka Tel: 06-6125-5338 Url: www.chinesecafe8.com

Kita-ku, Kamiyama-cho 11-12 Osaka Tel: 06-6361-0838 Url: www.osaka.ywca.or.jp

Sumida-ku, Yokoami 2-6-2 Tokyo Tel: 0120-983-891 / 03-6869-4851 Url: www.brastelremit.jp

Dublin Bay

Arthur Murray Dance School

Irish Pub

Chuo-ku, Dotonbori 2-1-5-B1 Osaka Tel: 06-6213-1122 Url: www.irishpub-dublinbay.com

Zerro The Place to be...

Chuo-ku, Shinsaibashi-suji 2-3-2, Queen’s Court Bldg 1F Osaka Tel: 06-6211-0439

The Blarney Stone Shinsaibashi The Irish Pub in the Heart of Osaka

Chuo-ku, Higashi-Shinsaibashi 2-527 Kohda Bldg B1F Osaka Tel: 06-6484-2220 Url: www.the-blarney-stone.com

Kita-ku, Umeda 1-3-1, Osaka Ekimae, Dai-1 Bldg. B2 Osaka Tel: 06-6348-0134 Url: www.meera.jp/en/

The Blarney Stone Umeda

Outback Steakhouse

Kita-ku, Sonezaki 2-10-15 Sonezaki Center Bldg. 6F Osaka Tel: 06-6364-2001 Url: www.the-blarney-stone.com

Australian Themed Steakhouse

Kita-ku, Umeda 2-1-24 Shinsakurabashi Bldg. 1F Osaka Tel: 06-6457-7121 Url: www.outbacksteakhouse.co.jp

Murphy’s Irish Pub First Irish Pub in Japan

Chuo-ku, Higashi-shinsaibashi 1-631 Lead plaza 6F Osaka Tel: 06-6282-0677 Url: www.murphysosaka.com

Fubar Restaurant and Bar

Chuo-ku, Shinsaibashi-suji 1-5-22F Osaka Tel: 06-6245-3757 Url: www.fubarosaka.com

Captain Kangaroo Food, Sports & Rock ‘n’ Roll

Kita-ku, Sonezaki-shinchi 1-5-20 Okawa Bldg. 1F Osaka Tel: 06-6346-0367 Url: www.roo-bar.jp

Chedi Luang Horie Traditional Thai food

Nishi-ku, Kita-horie 1-7-11 Osaka Tel: 06-6535-1515 Url: www.chedi.jp

> for maps see kansaiscene.com/business-finder

The Irish Pub in the Heart of Osaka

Coolabah Sports Cafe

Chuo-ku, Nishi-shinsaibashi 2-1613, Housen Bldg. 1F Osaka Tel: 06-6213-5153 Url: www.coolabah.jp

Ali’s Kitchen Pakistani & Arabic Cuisine

Chuo-ku, Shinsaibashi-suji 1-10-12B1 Osaka Tel: 06-6553-2292 Url: www.aliskitchen.jp

Trois Dix Macrobiotic & slow food restaurant

Nishi-ku, Kitahorie 1-22-4 Osaka Tel: 06-6648-8336 Url: http://locoplace.jp/t000094365/

Education

Dance Studio

Chuo-ku, Minami-senba 3-5-28 Osaka Tel: 06-6245-1731 Url: www.arthurmurray.co.jp

Marga Language Service Japanese Language School

Chuo-ku, Onoe-dori 5-1-27-8F Kobe Tel: 078-271-6446 Url: www.marga.jp

Online Japanese Lessons Study Japanese from Home

Suita, Toyotsu 40-6, EBIC Suita 3F Osaka Tel: 06-6484-6021 Url: www.nihongo-lesson.jp

Doshisha Business School Discover the Doshisha Global MBA

Doshisha University Karasuma-Imadegawa, Kamigyoku Kyoto Tel: 075-251-4600 Url: gmba.doshisha.ac.jp

Futaba Language School Japanese Classes in Shinsaibashi

Chuo-ku, Minamisenba 4-10-201101 Osaka Tel: 06-6244-2528 Url: www.futaba-japanese.com

Osaka Abacus Association Let’s learn Abacus!

Minatoku, Yunagi 2-13-7 Osaka Tel: 06-6572-6877 Url: https://sites.google.com/site/ osakasoroban/

Shops & Services

Kobe YWCA Global Network of Women

Chuo-ku, Ninomiya-cho 1-12-10 Kobe Tel: 078-231-6201 Url: www.kobe.ywca.or.jp

Mojoprint Full Color Printing

Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Osaka Tel: 06-6539-1717 Url: www.mojoprint.jp

TNT-PC English PC Support

Nishinomiya-shi, Maruhashi-cho 6-8-1F Nishinomiya Tel: 0798-65-7555 Url: www.tnt-pc.com

Yoshimoto Tax Services Tax Services for English speakers

Amagasaki-shi Tsukaguchi-cho 6-8-6-203 Hyogo Tel: 06-6421-3318 Url: http://yoshimotokaikei.tkcnf. com

Yuko Tamaki Accounting Office Accounting & Tax Services

Chuo-ku, Tanimachi 1-7-3-8F, Osaka Tel: 06-6809-1955 Url: www12.plala.or.jp/ytaccounting/ indexeng.html

International Solution Group Investments, Real Estate, Taxes US and Japanese

Chuo-ku, Tanimachi 1-3-17 suite 1001 Osaka Tel: 06-6949-0144 Email: kansai@isgjapan.com

Sweatshop Union T-Shirt Print Shop

Naniwa-ku, Sakuragawa 4-5-19 Osaka Tel: 06-4394-8850 Url: www.sweatshop.jp/eng

Creamy Kids International Modeling Agency

Kita-ku, Umeda 1-2-2 Osaka Ekimae, Dai-2 Bldg. 2F Osaka Tel: 06-6347-7705 Url: www.pre21.com/creamy

Pakmail Amagasaki We Ship Anything, Anywhere!

Tsugiya 2-2-28 Amagasaki Tel: 06-6492-8950 Url: www.pakmail-ama.com

Pakmail Esaka We Ship Anything, Anywhere!

Suita, Esaka-cho 1-23-17 Osaka Tel: 06-6330-8988 Url: www.pakmail-osaka.com

Shinmei Law Office Business Lawyer

38

Kansai Scene magazine January 2013 kansaiscene.com

Kita-ku, Nishi-tenma 4-11-22, Hanshin-shinmei Bldg. 501 Osaka Tel: 06-6362-8013 Url: www.shinmei-law.com/e

Higashi-Osaka, Morikawachi-nishi 1-1-12 Osaka Tel: 06-6942-5766 Url: www.aviormanor.com

Exeo International

Mayflower House

International Dating Parties

Guesthouse

Kita-ku, Umeda 1-1-3-3F Sky Lounge Mariage Osaka Tel: 050-5810-3977 Url: www.exeo-international.com

Chuo-ku, Izumi-machi 2-1-15 Osaka Tel: 0120-881-456 Url: www.osaka-mayflowerguesthouse.com/en

ACCJ Kansai American Chamber of Commerce in Japan

Kita-ku, Dojima-hama 1-1-8, Dojima Park Bldg. 5F Osaka Tel: 06-6345-9880 Url: www.accj.or.jp

Real Estate & Accommodation Takani Co. Ltd. Total Solution for House-hunting

Yodogawa-ku, Nishimiyahara 2-335 Osaka Tel: 06-6396-6770

Avior Manor Clean and Spacious Apartments for Rent

Oriental Process Apartments for Rent

Ikuno-ku, Tsuruhashi 1-1-36 Osaka Tel: 080-1422-4679 Url: www.orientalprocess.com

Entrance Japan Shared houses across Osaka

Kita-ku, Shibata 1-14-8-9F Osaka Tel: 06-6136-3330 Url: www.entrance-japan.com

TOA Furnished / Non-Furnished lofts for rent

Nishiyodogawa-ku, Tsukuda 1-1-36 Osaka Tel: 06-6471-8136 Url: http://passage.sunnyday.jp

To list your business in the Kansai Scene Business Finder contact sales@kansaiscene.com for more details.

Travel World Express Kobe’s Popular Travel Agency

Chuo-ku, Kotonoo-cho 5-3-5, Green Chapeau Bldg. 104 Kobe Tel: 078-222-5050 Url: www.wexp.co.jp

GS Travel Best Fares in Osaka

Chuo-ku, Higashi-Shinsaibashi 1-13-21, Wadayoshi Bldg 302 Osaka Tel: 06-6281-1230 Url: www.gs-travel.com/en

Across • No.1 Travel We go the extra mile for you

Kita-ku, Umeda 3-4-5, MainichiIntecio 15F Osaka Tel: 06-6133-0273 Url: www.no1.his-west.jp

Health & Beauty Ishida Women’s Clinic Women’s Health Care in Osaka

Asashi-ku, Shinmori 2-1-26 Osaka Tel: 06-6951-9701 Url: www.ishida-clinic.jp/en

Hair Art & Make up BOY Hair and Make Up

Chuo-ku, Higashi-Shinsaibashi 1-2-23-5F Osaka Tel: 06-6252-7630 Url: www6.ocn.ne.jp/~boy

Oriental Dental Clinic English Speaking Dentist

Chuo-ku, Nakayamate-dori 3-4-7, Oriental Medical Dental Bldg. 4F Osaka Tel: 078-321-2717 Url: www.oriental-shika.com

K Studio New York English Speaking Beauty Salon

Kita-ku, Toyosaki 5-2-22-2F Osaka Tel: 06-6371-9033 Url: www.ksny.jp

Interaction Hair Stylish cuts to suit you and your lifestyle

Nishi-ku, Minami-Horie 1-14-12201 Osaka Tel: 06-7501-7313 Url: www.in-hair.jp

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Have your say

Your hopes and dreams for 2013: Year of the Snake Compiled by KS

Sometimes, our projects - job, school, even vacations!- depend on many factors beyond our control. My dream for this year is these things become easier to overcome - or get out of the way!

My vision for 2013 is that it becomes the year when I lay the foundations for my career and further develop my focus and sense of direction about my future. I wish for peace and wisdom in the world.

Danya Ramirez, 28, Chile, language instructor

Alex Michaelson, 24, USA, media manager

I hope that 2013 will bring balance to my finances and personal life. I expect to complete my MBA and graduate in March.

My dream is to start my own business with my friends and business partners sometime next year, here in Japan.

Given that the Mayans have predicted the end of the world on the 21 December 2012, my greatest hope is to survive the Alpacalypse and see my name in Kansai Scene!

Daniel Pham, 26, Canada, MBA student

My hopes and dreams for 2013? Hmm… I want to speak Japanese without using Google translate. Mostly, I hope to be able to experience all the Kansai region has to offer!! It’s my home now and I want to know it like the back of my hand!

Ashlie Leon, 26, USA, language instructor

I would very much like to start working as a volunteer interpreter in hospitals in Osaka on my days off, so I could help more people in need. I wish my whole family and friends will have an even better year than 2012.

Yuko Abe, 23, Japan, business relations coordinator

Alex Jordan 32, South Africa, marine biologist

Its the year of the snake, so when I picture a snake, I always see it snatching its prey without hesitation. I want to be like thatalways taking chances and opportunities when they come my way.

Joanna Slaby, 20, USA, instructor

I’m planning to make 2013 an even better version of 2012. I want more crazy adventures with the people I love… and I want more of those special edition turkish delight Tim Tams.

Samantha Ng, 25, Australia, language instructor

Next month’s question:

What do you love about Kansai?

Email your answer (in English or 日本語) to haveyoursay@kansaiscene.com or post to our Facebook page www.facebook. com/kansaiscene, along with your full name, age, nationality, job title and a clear photo no later than Jan 15. Responses may be edited for clarity and space.

Have your say

41

Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene Classifieds Place your own ad online at kansaiscene.com/classifieds Please note: Kansai Scene is not responsible for the content of communications made through either printed or online classified ads.

Employment > Education DIVE into your Saturdays!

A dynamic & successful Saturday program for returnee students in Kyotanabe is looking for experienced & motivated teachers to join us in 2013. It's a fulfilling job, but we expect a lot from our teachers. If interested please forward a resume & cover letter to the divedave011@gmail.com Native English teacher wanted Native English teacher

wanted to teach adults and kids.

Full or part time positions starting right away or in March. Near Hankyu Kawanishi-Noseguchi st. Salary 250000 to 290000 based on experience and ability + transportation. Email Adam at: cv@ english-access.jp

Native English teacher wanted in Osaka Native English

teacher wanted to teach kids and adults ASAP as a part time job.

It starts once a week. Should be able to speak Japanese, and also have a good communication skills and creative thinking. If you are interested or for more information, please contact us: b.confidence. ur.self@gmail.com

English Teacher/ Evaluator Wanted Global

manufacturer in Mie seeks an English-speaking individual to develop an English as a Second Language (ESL) program for management-level personnel.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

Some support to an Englishspeaking senior Executive also required. Contact Manager: saiyou@ moriseiki.co.jp ENGLISH Part Time teacher

School in Umeda is looking for part time teacher of English from Feb 2013. Thu evenings and Sat morning. Must be native speaker, univ. degree and with proper visa. See our home page www.euro-lingual.com and send resume to abc@saboji.com, with photo and visa status and expiration specifications.

> General Web Developer. Web Developer required in Kansai

area. Previous experience essential.

Work available now. Tomas: indigo3210@yahoo.com

For Rent 2DK Osakako Fully Furnished Apartment

75000yen/Month 1minute walk to Osakako subway station. Recently remodeled 2DK, 35 square meter apartment, fully furnished. Close to supermarkets and convenience stores. 1month refundable deposit, no key money, no guarantors, 3month min. contract stay required, no agency fees. 2 apartments available immediately. Alex 09037030314 alex@abhousingosaka. com www.abhousingosaka.com

Room/Flat Share Penthouse Apartment in Kobe! 124-square-meter apartment

with gorgeous ocean and city views has room available. Private rooms.

All modern appliances and many extras (surround-sound theater system, 2-person sized bathtub, etc) 45000 yen+ bills. Non-smokers only please. See blog and/or contact Darren. (all rooms now furnished) zoobiechan110@yahoo.com www. kobeliving.blogspot.jp/

Events

help me to speak Japanese, I will be only too pleased to improve your English. Im interested in classical piano music. Lets enjoy chatting over coffee once a week, uk1seaview@yahoo.ie LANGUAGE EXCHANGE COMMUNITY a website where you

can find a language partner from another country who wants to do a language exchange travel with you. www.languageforexchange.com

FREE Language Exchange near Shinsaibashi! Want to

speak English and Japanese?

Make new friends? Visit http:// languageexchangeosaka.wordpress. com/ for details. See you there!

English-Japanese in Umeda/ Kobe! Friendly English teacher

in late 30s is looking for a Japanese friend for language exchange and friendship. I hope to practice my Japanese and help you with your English. Yoroshiku! Tom: feelyou@ japan.com

English / Japanese Exchange Hello, I am 27 year old

female looking for a Japanese female partner to practice Japanese. I came to Japan from India four months back. Please contact me in case you are interested: preeti.manrao@ gmail.com What's your new year’s

resolution in 2013? If it is an improvement of your Japanese, I’m able to support it for you.

This is the time for challenging it. Let’s get stated it in Umeda.

Arigatougozaimasu aiming2004jp@ yahoo.co.jp

FREE ABACUS CLASS for

looking for many good

FOREIGNERS FREE ABACUS CLASS for FOREIGNERS offered

by O.C.C.I. and Osaka Abacus Assoc. to promote int'l goodwill.

Individualized lessons taught in Japanese or English. Saturdays 10-12 am. Course material provided for free. Near Sakaisuji-Hommachi and Kitahama. Call: Moritomo Ken 066572-6877 https://sites.google.com/ site/osakasoroban/

English speaking people a 40yrs Japanese Korean in Osaka seeks many good English speaking friends for language and friendship in Osaka area. I personally would like to meet Aussies and Kiwis for Strine, Kiwi slang as well. Taka: postnakagawa2011@gmail.com

Language Exchange English lessons/ conversation piano lessons I'm looking for

beginners piano lessons in exchange for English lessons or conversation practice. Evenings and weekends are suitable for me. Thank you! gary_butter@yahoo.co.uk 国際交流飲み会仲間 新しく英語勉強会 から思わぬイベントで成功しました!外人 の居酒屋やbarで一緒に楽しく飲みまし ょう!国際交流に興味有る人なら年齢、 性別、国karintoprince@yahoo.com

Friendly British English teacher Seeks a kind lady. Please

Announcements A Special Family Christmas

Church Service at Kobe Union Church (English) Come join us Sunday Dec 9th for a celebration of Christmas, with a Family Christmas featuring choir, children, youth, Christmas songs, stories, and Christmas morning tea.

Check website for details. www. kobeunionchurch.com Let's go out for drink! Hi. I would like to make an international circle for 40's. Please let me know if you are interested in this activity!

Takao: toloveuk@mail.com Looking for a guitar player Professional Metal band is looking for a guitar player. Nationality is not important. Preferable age - from 20 to 40. Dedicated guys

are welcomed! Gena: genaosaka@ yahoo.co.jp Church Service and Christmas Party Bilingual

church service and Christmas party!

December 23rd near Utsubo Park at 11:00am. Everyone is welcome!

See website for details. See you then! http://www.mustardseedosaka.com Free Events in Osaka Meet

Japanese people make everlasting friends.沢山新友達を作りましょう We update our events page regularly, bookmark page.. http://facebook. com/kansaifriends.fanpage/events

Community Services New Year's Meditation Retreat: Dzogchen teachings,

Dec 25-Jan 5, 2013 New Year's Meditation retreat at Zofukuji Temple, Miki (Kobe) Tues. Dec 25 Sat. Jan 5, 2013. Dzogchen teachings

by Achariya Doug Duncan in English. Contact Peter Ujlaki: contact@dharma-japan.org

Other Long distance runner from Italy Ciao! I'm an italian

ultra distance runner. I like running flat and trail. I'd like to find a team or club to join for training and racing with. Italian and English speaking. Thanks for your help.

Emanuele: emashirito@hotmail.com Free English Editing by

e-mail! I'm a native English speaker, and I will edit your paper or report for free! 英語は母語です! レポの文法 とスペルを訂するのは無理です! Email me your report, and I will return it within 3 days! レポをメールして、3日 以下訂して返付します! 1月31日いまで しか Erin: erianders@hotmail.com Apprentice Bicycle Mechanic I humbly seeking

for a full/part time job for Bicycle Mechanic in Japan as a start afresh new career here. Ernest Choo: xternalq@me.com

Friendship Hi!... Seeking girlfriend of

Japan.. Hi, I am a 20yo Chilean guy.

I am looking for a woman in Japan to have a serious relationship and fun. . I am kind, gentle and sweet. If you like, mail me (runtuntunger@ yahoo.cl). I speak spanish...

Looking for smart intnl

Woman, discrete harmony relationship intlgnt Looking for LTR with intelignt F from Western culture backgrnd. Im considerate smart sweet easygoin nice M, won`t abuse or cheat U. Committed, Openminded, heart, social, sense

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Kansai Scene magazine january 2013 kansaiscene.com

of humor, love nature. benzene98@ hotmail.com

good time and enjoy life together. canyoubemyfriend@u2fan.com

31 American Male looking

hello. i am 37 yrs old man Looking for a Japanese female to be friend and possibly have a serious relationship 興味ある女性の方お気に 連絡ください。宜しくお願い致します.

Al: shandurpolo@hotmail.com

for a Japanese Female (21-36) for serious relationship Looking for a Japanese female to befriend and possibly have a serious relationship with. Must entertain the idea of possibly moving and living in the USA. I look forward to hearing from you. darkside_6@hotmail.com I like married or divorced

women best. So, I am looking for one special one for conversations about the things married and divorced people talk about. Single people don't really understand, do they? Bill: spindrift3@hotmail.com Be my boyfriend? JF(40)

has been seriously looking for a boyfriend (WM, around 40) who is fanny, tall, athletic and love to traveling. If you are interested in having a good relationship, please contact me. Thanks! Emiko: luckyluckyclover@yahoo.co.jp New York City Boy Seeks JF GF English teacher Living in Namba, i dont like clubs,difficult to meet someone, im not shy, and people say im funny,i just dont like japan clubs cause everyone wants to talk to me just cause im american. eroninichad@gmail.com こんにちは。Hello, I am Japanese

man, 27years old. I would like to make a foreign friend, and we can exchange many things. that could be nice!!! feel free to mail me. see you soon. the.runner777@gmail.com Let's Have Fun in Kobe Nice

gentlemen looking for a classy woman for excitement during the Christmas Holiday season.

I'm 37 yrs old from California.

I enjoy listening to classical and reading books. Tommy: tking205@ rocketmail.com Looking for a romantic

girl! A cool fun guy in 30s is looking for a Japanese woman to have a romantic times together.

I dont mind your look or if you are married. Lets just hava a

Looking for a Japanese

woman Hello. I am a single Western man in my 40s living in Kansai. I am educated, active, healthy and fun. I can speak Japanese fluently. I would like to meet an attractive Japanese woman for dating. andy19032005@ hotmail.com Looking for a Japanese

man! A gaijin man in 30s is looking for a Japanese man for dating Japanese girls together. Lets go out hunting for girls together. John: canyoubemyfriend@usa.com Japanese Girlfriend!

Loyal and friendly man, 30s, is

looking for a Japanese girlfriend.

Broke up with my girlfriend due to long-distance, so I feel lonely, hope to start a new relationship and enjoy the holidays together. Jack: bdggq788@yahoo.co.jp mature woman wanted Hello, I am a 40yo Japanese

male. I am looking for a mature woman, 40-50's. If you are lost in Japan, I would like to guide you. Mail me please. Hiroshi: littledragoninthesky@gmail.com Married Man Friendship, Chat, Daytime Married foreign

guy, around 40, tall, slim, friendly, seeks similar aged or older female for friendship, chats, coffee, etc.

Weekdays, occasional weekends.

Drop me a line, get to know each other. Jay: sagashiteru@yahoo.com

My kansai girl Hi there,I

am interested in meeting a good hearted woman from kansai since I was there a couple years ago for my work.I really liked it there,and now I want to meet someone from there for friendship. love_my_trees89@ yahoo.com

Xmas is here Hi iam seeking

female to hang out Xmas new year may be can do longtime relationship if you want I man 39years old active I love japanese food if interested mail me necnec61@yahoo.com

Looking for a relationship. Hi im JF, mid

30s, looking for a relationship. i like many interests including films and outdoors or just relaxing at home. i would like to meet someone like minded. please email me. thanks. no1uk_beach@yahoo.co.jp

Looking for sweetheart!

Im a foreign businessman in

Osaka, 39, looking for a Japanese girlfriend,20 -40, that I can care, love, give attention, hold hands while walking. Hope we can be together during winter Holidays.

James: secret-touch@kittymail.com

Two men looking for two

Japanese women for a good time!

A french and American men are looking for two fun Japanese women to go out for dinner and have a romantic time together.

Dinner on us. lets have a good time together. Mike: nicetomeetyou@ japan.com

Holiday love greetings. hello ! gentleman 30s seeking a

nice small skinny or short japanese girl for romance. please contact me if you interested. lets enjoy the new year together. MMSA: sweat.gold@ yahoo.com looking for a Japanese

lovely girl hi im a gentleman 3os looking for a japanese girl for romantic and fun times together. lets enjoy xmas and new year together. please email me asap. thanks. MMH: sweetsong651@ yahoo.com Lonely for Christmas, seeking company Single Japanese

woman looking for someone to spend Christmas with. I'm cold and lonely. Any age or nationality ok.

I work in Umeda, so can meet you for drinks and company after work

any time. Tetsuko: cecilmacabee@ yahoo.com 37 WM looking for JF single

or married to spend daytime together for going out in daytime. coffe,lunch,drink and talk. I will show you the passion of WM and I will make you happy in heaven. I have a lot for you,great lover. Don't be shy. davideangelo777@gmail.com

Looking for a female

friend Australian man 40 look for a nice lady for respectful and fun relationship may end to a long relationship. I love specially travelling sports and joles. pls email me at oz1japan1marriage1@gmail.com American man (37yrs) from

California visiting Osaka Visiting Osaka for oshogatsu. Looking to meet a Japanese woman to hang out. If there's chemistry let's see how things develop for something serious. I'm easy-going, funny, and airplane pilot. Michael: redrocktp@ yahoo.com Looking For A Girlfriend

Hello. 41 year American man. I am healthy and active. Looking for a non-smoker , a light drinker, or a non-drinker woman who is honest and open minded. Any nationality okay. E-mail = oviet@ymail.com seeking japanese girl foreign guy 30s looking for a

cute short slim japanese girl to hang out for good times and more.. please contact me if you interested. serious only. lets meet soon. a little bit english ok. Sam: acepocket321@ yahoo.com

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Umeda

Bank

Post Office

Entrance Japan

Cine Libre Umeda 3F

Theater Umeda

ARC 6F Umeda Sky Building

35F German Umeda 4F Consulate Garden Cinema Westin Hotel

Yodobashi Camera

JR Osaka Sta.

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Police Station

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Police Station

Hospital

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Futaba Language School

B1

Mizuho Bank

Crysta (underground shopping) Nagahori dori

Nagahori tsurumi-ryokuchi line Nagahoribashi

Ali’s Kitchen

Kitahorie Hospital

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Shakka Bar

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Chinese Cafe Eight

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Minamisenba

Tokyu Hands

Arthur Murray

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Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Shinmachi

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

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Jomo Gas

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Kobe Kokusai Shochiku

Sannomiya Hanadokeimae st.

Hotel Okura

Kyoto City Hall

Tozai Subway Line

Asahi Bank

Flower road

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Kainan lin

Kyoto

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