Metropolis 1095 by Metropolis

Mar 20-Apr 2, 2015 Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine www.metropolisjapan.com

無料 PRICELESS

SEE OUR Y UT HAIR & BEAL SPECIA FASHION WEEK

TOKYO GETS TRENDY

THE ROAD AHEAD BRINGING WOMEN’S ISSUES TO LIGHT

CHAMPAGNE SHOWERS

BIZARRE BEAUTIFICATION

SHADES OF GREY SKYLAR KEEPS IT COOL

www.akaiclinic.com

Cosmetic Surgery Laser Treatment Skin Care rejuvenate yourself with the best in beauty technology

Quality of Akai Clinic At Akai clinic, we only use products and technologies approved by the FDA.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS

• EYELID SURGERY rejuvenation of upper and lower eye lid, tear trough, double eyelid surgery, blepharoptosis, etc. • NOSE SURGERY tip plasty, hump resection, deviated nose, ala reduction, augmentation or reduction rhinoplasty. • BREAST SURGERY augmentation, lift, reduction, reconstruction. • LIPOSUCTION WITH LASER ultra sonic assisted suction device. • LASER-LIPO minimal invasive facial and body contouring device with AccuSculpt™ (1444nm laser). • FACE LIFT forehead, brow, mid-face, neck lift, thread’s lift. •TISSUE ENGINEERING TECHNIQUES for facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, AGA (PRFM, fat & stem cell injection, growth factor. • SKIN TUMORS skin cancer, cyst, mole, wart, scar revision. • GENITAL REJUVENATION SURGERY tightening of the vagina, reduction of labia minor and augmentation of the labia major. • HAIR TRANSPLANTATION SURGERY

• LASER & REJUVENATION lasers, RFs, IPLs, plasma, Ultra Sound for wrinkle, sagging, drooping, open pores, rosacea, skin complexion, pigmentation, melisma with SOLARI, Aurora-Pro, INFINI, eCO2, Affirm, EndyMed, Portrait Plasma, SPECTRA, AccuSculpt, etc. • BOTOX & FILLERS allergan’s BOTOX, Juvederm, Radiesse etc. • ACNE & ACNE SCARS PLASMA fractional lasers (eCO2, Affirm), INFINI (fractional RF), iClear (photo dynamic therapy), microdermabrasion, chemical Peeling. • LASER HAIR REMOVAL all kinds of lasers available: Alex and long pulsed YAG, diode laser, etc. • TATTOO REMOVAL with Spectra (Q-YAG laser) for any color of tattoo. • CELLULITE, BODY CONTOURING & STRETCH MARKS cVela Smooth and EndyMed body (FDA Approved). • LEG VEIN, BROKEN CAPILLARY long Pulsed YAG or VenoCare. • RHINOLIGHT hay fever, Allergic Rhinitis. • SKINOLIGHT psoriasis, Alopecia Areata, Vitiligo, Atopic dermatitis.

DR. HIDEMI AKAI is a board-certified plastic surgeon and an associate professor of the department of plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery at Tokyo’s Showa University. Dr. Akai trained at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital before amassing over twenty-five years of experience.

DR. KEIKO AKAI is also a board-certified plastic surgeon, and a dermatologist. The Akai Clinic offers a range of cosmetic-surgery procedures, laser treatments and skin care, using state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques.

Additional fee for anesthesia is required. Please contact the clinic for more information.

Other cosmetic procedures available. For fees and detailed information services, please refer to our homepage.

We welcome email and phone inquiries.

Omotesando

KNK Bldg 3F 3-5-17, Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo. 1-min walk from Omotesando stn, A3 exit. Tel: 03-5771-4114 Email: amc@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~8PM (Mon~Sun)

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Dermatologist

Yokohama

Quadrifoglio 4F 5-14 Kinkocho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama. 1-min walk from Yokohama stn, North East exit. Tel: 045-620-5745 Email: amc-skincare@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~7PM (Tue~Fri) & 10AM~5PM (Sat & Hol)

inside

MAR 20-APR 2, 2015 • #1095

EDITOR’S LETTER

There’s always a silver lining when skies are grey—and this week, that silver lining just happens to be Skylar Grey. The singer-songwriter who has penned hits for major pop artists is now riding her rising star, and she stopped by Tokyo for a quick chat and to show off her cool tattoos. Speaking of cool, winter heads to Oceania as

PUNiK: Speaking the universal language of punk.

springtime comes in. Keep trendy by visiting some of Tokyo’s best English-speaking salons. But above all, during the month of International Women’s Day, we take a look at some of the mental health issues women continue to face and how we can help. Oh, and feel like entertaining your cats? Flip over to page 18. You’re welcome. © Mika Ninagawa, Courtesy of Tomio Koyama Gallery

Humphrey’s Haunts: Sip spirits near Bogart’s past.

Golden Fins: Ninagawa’s underwater subjects.

Cover design & photo: Kohji Shiiki, shot at FOX International Channels (Japan)

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CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Neil Butler EDITORIAL Christopher Bryan Jones (Editor-In-Chief) Martin Leroux (Editor) Momoko Mochizuki (editorial assistant) Tim Young (Proofreader) CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dan Grunebaum (Entertainment) Don Morton (Movies) C.B. Liddell (Arts) Samuel Thomas (Fashion) DESIGN Kohji Shiiki (Art Director) Davi Azevedo (Graphic Designer) WEB Minh Douangprachanh (Digital Manager) PRODUCTION Helen Langford (Production Assistant) ADVERTISING Akane Ochi, Karl Nakashima, Niki Kaihara (Sales Managers) Yo Takahashi (Sales Executive) Ai Hosokawa (Sales Assistant) Nina Ozawa, Sherry Zheng, Tomoko Inoue, Megan Green (Interns) ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING Keiko Adachi (Administration Manager) Michiko Anezaki (Adminstration/Classifieds) IT Guilhem Malfre (It/ Web Developer)

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Reach over 60,000 Metropolis readers. Advertise: sales@metropolisjapan.com; http://metropolisjapan.com/advertise メトロポリスは20年以上に渡り、訪日•関東在住の外国人へ無料で配布している英字総合情報誌です。英語圏の方々に向けた情報発信や宣伝広告の機会を行政機関や日本企業に提供しております。お問い合わせ: 03-4588-2277 © Copyright 2015 Japan Partnership Inc. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to edit or delete any advertisement without notice.

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A CUT ABOVE

COMPLIMENT EXPERT Taking care of your appearance feels great, and it certainly doesn’t hurt when someone takes notice. Giving someone a compliment only takes a second of your day, but might make someone else’s. So what are you waiting for? Let Metropolis teach you how to become an expert flatterer! JP

The artistry and quality of Kamata Hakensha’s handmade blades

Established in 1923 with a history spanning four generations, Asakusa cutlery maker Kamata Hakensha knows how to slice it. The company’s 800-strong product lineup includes top - gr ade handmade and factory-made knives. These blades have made repeat customers of some of the world’s finest chefs, thanks to stringent quality checks and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. All knives are designed by the owner, created by skilled craf tsmen, and individually edged. Free engraving and an inexpensive sharpening service seal the deal. Engraving is available free on select knives and can be done in just three minutes. Perfect for a seasonal gift or souvenir of your stay in Tokyo. Mention Metropolis and receive a free large nail clipper with purchases of ¥10,000 or more.

Kami kirimashita? Oniai desune! Did you cut your hair? It suits you!

JP EN

Doko de kaimashita ka? Where did you buy it? Watashi mo hoshī desu! I want one too!

Arigatō gozaimasu! Suteki na baggu desu ne. Thank you! What a lovely bag.

A 1

A 2

が

C 3 A

4 B

10 C

Solution: A

Down 1. Musical instrument 2. Salary 3. To buy 4. Impossible 7. Reconstruction Across 2. Machine 4. Recovery 5. Oyster 8. Understanding 9. To float 10. Hairdresser

ANSWERS AT meturl.com/kanacross

Metropolis Members Club CRAFTSMAN’S CHOICE • • • •

17-layer Japanese steel knife two-piece set with hard case ¥17,400 Carbon steel two-piece set with hard case ¥23,300 Carbon steel Wa-Santoku ¥9,800 17-layer stainless steel small knife with Japanese wooden handle ¥7,500

2-12-6 Matsugaya, Taito-ku. Tel: 03-3841-4205. Open 10am-6pm daily. Asakusa or Tawaramachi. www.kap-kam.com/index_english.html

THIS WEEK’S WINNER! Reema Srivastava won a Zwilling Premium Quality Kitchen Knife courtesy of Zwilling

UPCOMING PRIZE One lucky MMC member will win a Personal Training Session courtesy of Club360

TO-DO LIST

TOP

hanami spots UNTIL EARLY APR

UNTIL EARLY APR

Enjoy a stroll along the Meguro River, where 800 sakura trees line both banks for a distance of 3.8km. Until early Apr. Meguro River. Nakameguro. Tel: 03-5722-6850. http:// meguro-kanko.com

Take in the blossoms for a km along the Sumida River, dating back to those planted by shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune during the Edo period. Until early Apr. Sumida Park. Asakusa. Tel: 03-5608-6951. http://j.mp/sumidatourism

See the famous shidare-zakura, or weeping cherry tree, which boasts a height of 15m and width of 20m. Until early Apr, 9am-5pm. ¥300. Rikugien Gardens. Komagome. Tel: 03-39412222. http://j.mp/rikugiengardens

Meguro River

Sumida Park

Rikugien Gardens

EDITOR’S PICK APR 22-26

MAR 25-JUN 29

MAGRITTE EXHIBITION A retrospective of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte, who achieved a unique artistic style that strongly influenced 20th-century art and design, and which continues to fascinate people around the world. Mar 25-Jun 29, 10am-6pm (until 8pm on Fri). Closed Tue. ¥600-1,400 (adv)/ ¥800-1,600 (door). The National Art Center, Tokyo. Nogizaka. Tel: 03-5405-8686. http://magritte2015.jp/english.html 《白紙委任状》1965年 81.3x 65.1cm 油彩／カンヴァスワシントン・ナショナル・ギャラリー National Gallery of Art, Washington, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, 1985.64.24

MR. SHOW

MAR 26

Photo courtesy of Creativeman

Korean all-male revue Mr. Show arrives in Japan to tease and titillate female audiences. A Chippendales sort of R-rated strip extravaganza, Mr. Show is exclusively a ladies-only affair. Eight hunks take turns disrobing and revealing their ripped six-packs, lats, and pecs as a high-octane soundtrack throbs in the background. Highly recommended for gaijin girls who are into Asian guys. Apparently the show made a bit of a kerfuffle when its female director Kolleen Park debuted the production in conservative South Korea last year. Dan Grunebaum Apr 22, 7:30pm; Apr 23-24, 2:30 & 7:30pm; Apr 25, 12:30, 4:30 & 8:30pm; Apr 26, 12:30 & 4:30pm, ¥6,000-20,000. Akasaka Blitz. Akasaka. Tel: 050-5533-0888. www.mrshow.jp

KINDNESS

Yokoo Tadanori. The Sky Above the Venue of EXPO’70. 1967. The National Museum of Art, Osaka

Solo project of British singer Adam Bainbridge, whose debut album World, You Need a Change of Mind was released in 2012. Mar 26, 7:30pm, ¥6,000. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://j.mp/kindness2015

MAR 26-29

TONIGHT IS NASTY Six female dancers representing Japan perform solo and duet dances, choreographed by Akira Kasai, that trace the journey towards the achievement of universal catharsis. Mar 26-27, 7:30pm; Mar 28-29, 3pm, ¥3,0004,000 (adv)/ ¥3,500-4,500 (door). Setagaya Public Theatre. Sangen-jaya. Tel: 03-33207217. http://setagaya-pt.jp/en

MAR 20-MAY 17

OSAKA EXPO ’70 DESIGN PROJECT

MAR 27-29

TOKYO MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Held under the theme of “Progress and Harmony for Mankind,” the 1970 Osaka Expo (Japan World Exposition) is remembered as a national event in Japan during the years of spectacular economic growth. This exhibition presents a complete picture of the design work for the 1970 Expo. Mar 20-May 17, 10am-5pm (until 8pm on Fri). Closed Mon. ¥130-430. The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Takebashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://j.mp/osakaexpo2015, http://j.mp/moon2015

Enjoy bikes from all over the world—including the latest models and custom machines—take them out for a test ride, and more. Mar 27, 1-6pm; Mar 28, 10am-6pm; Mar 29, 10am-5pm, ¥500-1,300 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,600 (door). Tokyo Big Sight. Kokusai-Tenjijo. http://motorcycleshow.org/english

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HAIR & BEAUTY

New Do, New You Tokyo gets the makeover of the year as it leaves behind the frosty blue and grey palette of winter in lieu of pastel pinks that pop up in cherry trees throughout the city, completely vivifying the landscape. Why not give springtime a run for its money with a revamping of your own? Let go of that hairstyle you’ve been rocking since last October, and give your coif new life at the hands of some of Tokyo’s best English-speaking salons. WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Metropolis readers who bring this ad for color treatment receive 15% off

AFRODITA

Valid until June 30, 2015 1F, 2-108-1 Sengencho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama 045-311-0139 Wed-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon-Tue Yokohama www.yokohamahairsalon.com Facebook: Afrodita Yokohama Hair Salon Instagram: @afroditasalon_

Hair stylist Yoshiko Morimoto is on a mission to bring the high-level of style and service available in Beverly Hills to Japan. But unlike salons in the most exclusive parts of Tokyo, Morimoto offers this in English and without huge fees. Having trained at Vidal Sassoon in London and at top salons in New York and Los Angeles—where her clientele included Hollywood entertainers and models—she knows how to work with Western hair. Upon her return to Japan in 2001, Morimoto opened Afrodita near Yokohama Station. Today, clients travel from Saitama, Chiba, and Yokosuka just to get styled. And as customers from many countries will tell you, Morimoto never fails to satisfy them with her eye for style, especially with trending colors. Her friendly, international staff all speak English, as well as other languages from across the globe. Afrodita salon even stocks exclusive American hair care brand Redken. Follow the photos of her latest cuts on Facebook at “Afrodita Yokohama Hair Salon.” Yokohama

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Free consultation in English for Metropolis readers

DUDE

2-26-10 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku 03-3468-9116 Wed & Fri 10am-7:30pm, Thu 10am-8:30pm, Sat-Sun & hols 10am-7pm, closed Mon-Tue Shimokitazawa dude-hair@nifty.com www.dude.jp

At a typical Japanese hair salon, you are confronted by an army of staff fawning over you like a movie star or minor member of the Royal Family. Instead of just getting on with the job, they wrap you up like a Victorian doll and subject you to endless interrogation about what you eat and don’t eat, where you’re from, the weather in Japan versus your home country, and other delightful topics. This might be great for some people, but if you just want a haircut with no extra hassle you should zero in on Dude. Located among the trendy lanes of Shimokitazawa, Dude is a salon with its priorities firmly in place. Friendly and efficient, the staff give both dudes and dudettes what they came for—the stylish haircut that suits them best. They also provide a totally relaxing atmosphere that leaves customers feeling peaceful. So aim for a hassle-free life—and haircut—at Dude. Shimokitazawa

MORE SPECIALS ONLINE →

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • 20% off our entire range of services on your first visit!

6F, 4-1-9 Azabu-jūban, Minato-ku 03-6436-0228 Mon & Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, closed Tue & Sun Azabu-Jūban (exit 4, 1 min) www.goldsalontokyo.com

GOLD SALON

Gold Salon Tokyo is a top choice for foreign residents seeking a hair salon experience closer to what they might be used to back home. The fact that 98 percent of the salon’s clientele are foreign residents is a testimony to their skill with foreign hair. English is the first language in the salon, so communication—from booking through to consultation—gives Gold the leading edge. The stylist/colorists have many years experience working with the variations in hair texture and myriad of color options demanded by their discerning, international clientele. As salon owner and director Howard Regner likes to put it, “If the U.N. set up a hair salon, it would pretty much look like Gold!” So whether it's a great cut, superb color, or the smoothest Brazilian keratin treatments in town, the choice is simply Gold! Azabu-Jūban

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • 30% off cut, color, and perm for first-time visitors (excludes Keratin treatment) KERATIN TREATMENT • Short ¥20,000-25,000 • Medium ¥25,000-30,000 • Long, from ¥30,000 206 The Roppongi Tokyo Plaza, 3-7-1, Roppongi, Minato-ku 03-5574-8844 Mon & Wed-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat-Sun & hols 10am-7pm, closed Tue Roppongi www.hayatosalons.com

HAYATO TOKYO

Hayato Salon is bringing a new option to those looking to make their daily hair care easier. Their formaldehyde-free keratin treatment is the first customizable, long-lasting smoothing service for silky smooth hair. It makes unruly, frizzy hair manageable, softens waves, Roppongi smoothes overall hair structure, reduces daily styling time, and lasts for up to 5 months. In addition to keratin treatment, Hayato offers a wide range of treatments, and satisfaction is always guaranteed. Each team member is bilingual and does their very best to create a relaxing, comfortable, and classy environment. The stylists are all experts—especially at handling the varied hair types of foreigners—thanks to a training program developed by founder Hayato himself. Stylists receive on-the-job training at Hayato New York for two years, where they learn to speak English, so when they debut at Hayato Tokyo they’re more than ready to serve you.

WEBSITE

KENJI SUZUKI New York City | Azabujuban, Tokyo

SPECIAL OFFER • Mention Metropolis and receive 20% off all services if you are a first-time customer • Pre-book your next appointment and receive 10% off your next cut

Bondz Salon 4F, 1-8-13 Azabu-jūban,Minato-ku 080-1307-4973 Tue-Sun 11am-9pm; closed Mon & 2nd Tue Azabu-Jūban contact@kenji-hairstylist.com www.kenji-hairstylist.com

KENJI HAIR STYLIST

English-fluent Kenji Suzuki is one of the many talented stylists who have come together at the Bondz Salon in Azabu-jūban, where the relaxed, boutique-like atmosphere makes you feel right at home. Having held high-profile positions in the international beauty Azabu-Jūban industry for more than 20 years, Kenji spent most of those years in New York City. In fact, he stills takes care of his stylish clientele there on periodic visits to the U.S. Since 2013, he has shared the styles and techniques that he learned and honed in the Big Apple with his Tokyo clients, specializing in dry haircutting for men and women, and offers color and perm treatments. Whether a patron has a specific look in mind or wants to try out something new, Kenji works closely with them to ensure they leave with a style that follows trends, yet still brings out their own personal beauty. “For your hairstyle, for your lifestyle” is his motto.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION HAIR & BEAUTY

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER Mention Metropolis to get: • 20% off all hair services and 40% off Japanese straightening perm and intense treatment with stylist Yuri on your first visit. (Valid until April 30.) • First-time Shellac nail coloring manicure for ¥4,500 or pedicure for ¥6,500.

SIN DEN

Changes are a big commitment! At Sin Den, we so get that! When you’re ready to make a change and freshen up for spring, our stylists are right there to discuss how to go about it, and how to make it work for you. We know what’s trending now, but we also know that it’s “old-fashioned” to simply follow trends. What’s hottest this season is to find the look that makes you feel fabulous. Whether you’re an international banker, domestic diva, fashionista, or chic kid, dare to be different and dare to be you. No style is crazy if it’s yours, and puts a little strut in your step! Woof!

3-9-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku 03-3405-4409 Mon-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 10am-7pm Omotesando http://sinden.com

Omotesando

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Mention Metropolis and receive free Kerastase hair treatment (¥3,000 value) and more! • Pearl Mask Facial Treatment 20% off (First-time visitors only) (These offers cannot be combined with other coupons) SERVICES • Hair: Cut, color, perm, highlights, and head spa • Body: Waxing and facials 2F YS Bldg, 2-1-21 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku 03-6408-6132 Tue-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun & hols 10am-7pm, closed Mon Hiroo or Roppongi www.vipcreativehair.jp WEBSITE

VIP CREATIVE HAIR SALON

VIP Creative Hair International is there to meet all your hair care and beauty needs for any special occasion. Their team of experts has served Tokyo’s Japanese and foreign communities for many years, and they work to provide Roppongi a relaxing and refreshing atmosphere of pure luxury in their private treatment rooms. Their exclusive tewaza (hand technique) spa relaxes the head and scalp muscles, improves circulation, stimulates facial muscles, and enhances your body’s natural healing powers. The salon staff have extensive experience in the U.S. and Japan, and can work with a full range of hair colors—as their many loyal foreign customers can attest. Leave your stress behind, relax, and enjoy the VIP treatment at this exceptional hair salon!

WATANABE HAIR DRESSING Harajuku

SPECIAL OFFER • Metropolis readers visiting for the first time receive 10% off all hair services. SERVICES • Haircut by hairstylist Aki: ¥9,720 • Haircut: ¥5,940 (stylist) • Gray cover: ¥5,940 • Henna from ¥7,560 • Coloring from ¥8,100 • Highlights from ¥8,640 B1 Sun Beauty Harajuku, 3-25-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku 03-3405-1188 Tue-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun & hols 10am-8pm Harajuku or Meiji-Jingūmae www.watanabe-hair.com

To visit Watanabe Hair Dressing is to experience the best of Tokyo’s hair salons, where English-speaking staff pamper clients from start to finish and use unique techniques to create sophisticated looks. If you’re looking to discover a great new style this summer, a visit to Watanabe Hair Dressing may just be a step in the right direction. Forbes once called Aki Watanabe “the best hairdresser in Tokyo.” Trained at the Vidal Sassoon and Toni & Guy academies, his own salon, Watanabe Hair Dressing, celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. Aki has done hairstyling for magazines such as The Face and i-D, and worked for brands like Red or Dead. Some of his celebrity clients include Beat Takeshi, architect Paul Tange, and Massive Attack. But you don’t have to be an A-lister to enjoy his latest styling trends and techniques. Aki has trained his young staff to provide great coifs at affordable prices for everyone.

MORE SPECIALS ONLINE →

WEBSITE

ELANA JADE ORGANIC BEAUTY SALON Azabu-Jūban

SPECIAL OFFER • Receive four 60-min peeling facials for only ¥42,000 (a savings of ¥14,000) 3F Latorie Memorial Bldg, 1-5-19 Azabu-Jūban, Minato-ku 03-6438-9895 Mon-Tue 11am-9pm, Wed-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat Sun 10am-7pm Azabu-Jūban www.elanajade.com

Turn back the years “naturally” with Elana Jade’s amazing organic peeling course! Chosen by celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Hudson, Ilsci Organics offers the benefits of a chemical peel without the potential long- or short-term chemical damage. For this month only, Elana Jade is offering this unique fourtreatment course for only ¥42,000. The salon is a short five-minute walk from Roppongi Hills in Azabu-Jūban, and exclusively uses certified organic ingredients in all treatments. Elana Jade also specializes in waxing (specifically Brazilian wax), and organic facials, as well as hot-stone and oil massages. They also have specific ranges for men, brides, and mommies-to-be, making Elana Jade your oasis in the heart of Tokyo.

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Bring this copy of Metropolis and receive a full face treatment for ¥23,000 (reg. ¥29,250) or upper back for ¥17,400 (reg. ¥20,500) SERVICES • Men’s hair removal (per visit/per five sessions): “Speedo” area: ¥38,000/¥133,000 2F Ishihara Bldg, 3-7-1 Azabu-Jūban, Minato-ku 03-6435-1276 info@mds-a.jp Mon-Fri noon-11:30pm, Sat-Sun & hols 10am-11:30pm Azabu-Jūban http://mds-a.jp/english

MDSA

Springtime is upon us, and that means it’s time to lose the scruff and do a little “manscaping” to look your best for the warmer weather and outdoor activities. MDSA Hair Removal Salon, just a two-minute walk from Azabu-Jūban Station, offers secluded treatment rooms, English-speaking staff, a reservation-only policy, and an atmosphere that caters to both men and women, so it’s not all feminine. The tools and procedures used to remove unwanted hair from backs, shoulders, bellies, and those “mankini” lines come direct from the U.S. Head in for a free consultation and a localized hair-removal trial to see for yourself how it works. You’ll be impressed by the efficiency, minimal discomfort, and good value. Rooms can service two people, so bring your friend or girlfriend along to also benefit from MDSA’s service while they hold your hand—if you’re man enough! Azabu-Jūban

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Mention Metropolis for 15% off all waxing services Arrow Plaza Harajuku 312, 4-19-8 Jingūmae, Shibuya-ku 03-3470-7109 Tue-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm Omotesandō or Meiji-Jingūmae http://shousalon.com

SHOU SALON

Shou Beauty Salon, located just five minutes from both Omotesandō and MeijiJingūmae stations behind Omotesandō Hills, last year celebrated 15 years in business, during which they have served more than 30,000 customers from many countries. Owner/beautician Hiromi Matsumaru understands all skin types, having trained in the U.S. and Australia, and Shou’s wide range of treatments includes many that you would find back home, such as Brazilian waxing, deep cleansing facials, manicures and pedicures (including speedy Shellac polish), and eyelash tinting in popular colors like blue, black, and brown. A hugely popular treatment is the Endermologie facelift, which utilizes the latest techniques to give you a double lift, stimulating revitalization of your collagen and further brightening your skin with a CO2 mask. Omotesando

music

JAPAN BEAT

Photo by Stephen Jackson

PUNiK Speaking the universal language of punk BY DAN GRUNEBAUM

apan is a place where—to the Western mind—appearances can be deceptive. A woman could be a man; a donut could be a bean-paste bun; a “yes” could mean “no.” “The Japanese punk scene is a bit strange in the sense that even without punk’s energy, bands are considered punk here,” observes frontman Tagu of Tokyo punk outfit Punik ahead of a trip to Taiwan. “It may look like punk, but it’s not really—in fact, you could say that about Japanese rock as a whole.” Formed in 2008, Punik are one of the hardier acts on Tokyo’s live house circuit, logging a punishing 100 gigs a year at storied Chuo Line rock venues like Earthdom and Mission’s. They’ve been approached by major labels but prefer to reject commercial pressures and, Tagu says, “retain punk’s original impulse.” Their performances are a jangled-nerve storm of tracks with titles like “Punk Bomb.” Debuting as a trio with Fuckareyoudoing??, Punik (a pun on “punk” and “panic”) recently added Englishman Nigel van der Grijspaarde on bass. “The first time I saw Punik, these three guys ran on stage, plugged in, and basically assaulted their instruments and the audience’s senses,” he recalls. “It was a raw blast of power, incredibly loud, there were bum notes and not one of them gave a damn! It was the most re-

freshing thing I’d heard in years. “Soon after that, their bassist quit,” he continues, “and a mutual friend set up a meeting. Tagu and Makoto were already well in their cups. There basically was nothing to joining except they both made one thing clear—passion! We rehearsed on Tuesday and my first gig was Friday. That was it. Tagu said, ‘Don't worry about screw-ups, just put your guts into it. We’re gonna play 11 songs in the next 25 minutes. Ready?’” How does the band maintain its brutal schedule while holding day jobs? “Punk rock has been my motivator since I was 13,” Grijspaarde answers. “It hooked me when I was going through a turbulent teen time and never let go. To us, it’s not spiky hair and spit; it’s the way we live. We use anger constructively, and when you’re standing on stage waiting for that ‘one, two, three, four’ above the feedback … well, there is nothing else like it. Though it has to be said that for the first few gigs with Punik, I would come offstage and puke from the exertion!” A veteran of the U.K. punk scene, Grijspaarde says the band is getting positive feedback from his old mates in England. Punik have also brought their roots punk to Las Vegas, where they performed at the first-ever Hempfest, sharing the stage with members

of Cypress Hill, Fishbone Project, and Beijing. At the time of this writing, they were in Taipei for the Anarchy in Taiwan street punk festival. Grijspaarde calls Beijing and Taipei “hotbeds of unrest, anger—especially amongst the students ... ideal for punk expression,” but like Tagu, expresses mixed feelings about Japan’s punk scene. “Japan is a relatively easy country to live in—no cop beat-downs, comfortable level of living—people living the superstar life vicariously through insipid ‘talents,’” he says. “Yet on the other hand, some of the world’s most extreme music can be found right here, played ferociously night after night in hundreds of dingy, sweaty pisshole joints.” As for life as Punik’s lone gaijin, it seems that forty years since its invention, punk has become a universal language, easing Grijspaarde’s path. “There's nothing special about having a foreigner in the band, but Nigel doesn't speak Japanese, so we have to communicate through gestures,” Tagu laughs. “But when it comes to the music, as soon as we start to play everything’s OK.” Punik play Design Festa, Vol. 41. May 17, 2:40pm. Tokyo Big Sight, Outdoor Stage. Tagu plays solo May 18, 11:30am. Tokyo Big Sight, Indoor Stage. http://designfesta.com/en/

cover story Fox Backstage Pass airs Sat on Fox at 1am; Sun on Fox Movies Premium at 9 am; and on Fox Sports and Entertainment at 11:30am.

The singer-songwriter casts cool shades on Tokyo BY DANIEL L. SMITH FOX EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

ome might find it odd that the most striking characteristic to catch my eye upon meeting pop singer Skylar Grey was her “coolness.” She had just strolled down to the lobby from her room at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo to greet a small cadre that was to accompany her to an interview with Fox Backstage Pass and Metropolis in Harajuku. As the itinerary was explained, Grey smiled and nodded before heading to a canary-yellow Chevrolet Corvette Z51 Convertible—her predesignated mode of travel. If there were any pressing details not ironed out, her demeanor didn’t show it; she just looked cool. Like many of the her soulful songs, there’s a soothing quality about the singer that comes across like the shade cast by trees on a hot day—that cool. Maybe it stems from the comfort zone she found with music at an early age. “I started singing professionally with my mother when I was six. I made three albums by the time I was 14. My mother was a singer, and so was my dad. Everybody in my family is in music,” Grey explained. “I have always composed music. At my first piano recital, when I was seven, I composed the song that I played. So when I was 14, I started adding lyrics and I just became obsessed with songwriting. I moved to Los Angeles. I got a [record] deal, but it was always writing for myself and others and movies and stuff.”

Photos: Kohji Shiiki

1 TO 1: SKYLAR GREY

As an artist, she enjoyed modest success as a featured singer on Fort Minor’s “Where’d You Go” and “Be Somebody.” But something special about Grey started to emerge that set her apart from her contemporaries: She wrote great songs—songs that major artists wanted to sing. “I wrote a song called ‘Love The Way You Lie’ that got picked up by Eminem and Rihanna, and that kind of changed my life! It was huge!” Huge is an understatement. The song reached number one on 26 charts globally and earned a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year. The buzz about Grey was on, and it made her a hot commodity in a cool business! “It set a chain of events in motion. I got to work with so many amazing people after that like Diddy, Dr. Dre, T.I., and Nicki Minaj. The list goes on! It’s amazing!” Grey said the inspiration she draws upon to write songs taps into her basic instincts. “Songwriting for me is pretty much always the same. I come from a personal and emotional place when I write, and then I have to decide whether I am willing to give it up for another artist. It is different every time. Usually I start with the music, add the melody, chord changes and stuff like that, then the lyrics come after,” Grey said. As her music has developed, so have other interests such as brand tie-ups and a fashion label. It’s the brand tie-up that brought the singer to Tokyo on behalf of Amway Japan. Grey is the spokesperson for Amway’s energy drink. She said her fashion label is still in its initial stage. “I have my own fashion line called Woodrat. It’s not out yet, except for a few beanies, but I am really excited about it. It’s a unisex line because I am a tomboy. I am actually wearing all Y3 right now, which is my favorite brand— ironically Japanese. I’m looking for the right op-

Skylar Grey and fashion designer Eiko Gudnason

portunity to release it, but I have all the designs ready,” Grey explained. Grey got to exchange fashion views with Japanese designer Eiko Gudnason, whose Eiko World collection was inspired by a fantasy world she would escape to during childhood. While Grey hopes to get back to Japan soon, 2015 is shaping up to be the most groundbreaking time of her career. She has songs on the soundtracks of two of the most anticipated films—“I Know You” from Fifty Shades of Grey and “I Will Return” from the latest in “The Fast and the Furious” franchise, Furious 7. In composing “I Know You,” Grey said she felt the need to do some research. “I got asked to work on the film track about a year and a half ago. So I decided to read the book. It was interesting. I definitely had a lot of friends tell me they got excited reading it. For me though, I wanted to dig more into the emotional side of the characters and write a song that was based on the love story that was happening.” Grey said “I Will Return” was penned from a more personal perspective. “It’s beautiful and it’s a song that I wrote and was inspired by Paul Walker.” How cool is that? I think Skylar Grey cool.

food&drink

Apparently the 3-D phenomenon isn’t exclusive to the movies or printing: Even snack foods are getting in on the craze. Last year’s Rich Giza corn chip snacks evolve into Gizakkuru 3-D. The chips now have morphed into three-dimensional, wheel-like shapes that result in different textures depending on how they’re chewed. Because Japanese snack foods pay attention to this kind of thing. Comes in barbecue and butter flavors. Available at convenience stores nationwide.

RESTAURANT

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EN/JP

BY V KEVORK

Located on the 24th floor of the Peninsula Hotel and surrounded by the Imperial Palace gardens is Peter: The Bar. Its magnificent views, spaceship vibe, violet lighting, and artificial trees will transport you to another world. The bar, which has no cover charge, offers cocktails priced at approximately ¥2,000 (plus service charge) on an average day, and also presents you with the option of ordering a bottle of exclusive Dom Perignon Brut Rose 2003 for ¥98,000—plus service charge—if your purse allows for such extravagance. All the beverages in the extensive menu are mixed by profession-

als, concocted with precision so it rightfully presents itself as an award-winning beverage. Happy hour happens Sundays through Thursdays from 5 to 8pm. Here, choose from a select list of lavish drinks and bar snacks, priced at an affordable ¥800 (plus service charge)—mimosas, spumonis, margarita, and wine, among others. The accompanying snacks include small portions of nachos, fish and chips, beef cubes, olives, and cajun Peter-style fries. Their signature Tokyo Joe cocktail is on this list—the bar’s homage to one of the greatest actors of all time. Upon chatting with the bartender, I discover the origins of the Tokyo Joe and it makes the experience even more significant. He explains that Tokyo Joe is the name of a movie filmed around this area, starring Humphrey Bogart as an American returning to Tokyo to see what’s left after World War II. The cocktail celebrating the film is a beautiful drink and exquisite in its form—something

Lindt Chocolat Café’s new sakura-inspired products look as sweet as they taste, and are sure to gear you up for spring regardless of the inconsistent weather. The White Chocolate Sakura Ice Drink (¥772) mixes Amarena and Griotte cherries with the subtle saltiness and aroma of cherry blossoms. The Délice (Lindt’s macarons) Sakura combines white chocolate ganache, cherry purée, and sakura-flavored syrup for a Japanese twist on the French delicacy. 3-5-22 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tel: 033423-2200. Omotesandō. www.lindt.jp

of a Japanese version of a cosmopolitan. The concoction comprises Bombay Sapphire, ume (plum) liqueur, drambuie, cranberry juice, and lemon juice. It’s served in the top of a martini glass, propped up by stilts. If one is to truly experience the Tokyo Joe, the cranberry and ume flavors must be savored, the drink’s unique presentation taken in, and its background story kept in mind. Don’t forget the cajun Peter-style fries: These spicy carbs are positively addictive and make all the difference when looking for the perfect snack for your posh drinks. And if you need a reason to raise your glass, remember that, in 1949, Humphrey Bogart was filming a movie close to this exact location. Kampai! The Peninsula Hotel 24F, 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 03-6270-2763. Hibiya http://meturl.com/peterthebar Photo by Vesna Kevork

Peter: the bar

There are few foods that match the pizza in terms of awesomeness; but the food’s one main flaw is that it isn’t so easy to eat one on the go. But Stickpizza & Cafe Bar in Roppongi remedies that by rendering the pizza into stick version: Easy to eat while on your feet. The wide array of options range from the tame (arabiata, carbonara, etc.) to unique (spicy curry, squid...)—and desserts, too (cinnamon apple, sweet potato caramel, among others). Takeout OK—perfect for a hanami outing. 7-3-13 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Roppongi. www.eu-syokudou.com

Japanese brewery SanktGallen offers a slew of fun flavors such as Pineapple Ale, Sweet Vanilla Stout, Apple Cinnamon Ale, and Imperial Chocolate Stout. A limited spring edition, their SanktGallen Sakura is made with the leaves and blossoms of sakura from Nagano’s Takatō region, selected as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful sakura destinations. Looking for an alcoholic beverage for hanami? It doesn’t get more fitting than sakura beer. Available in select stores or online from www. sanktgallenbrewery.com

RESTAURANT

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If you’re packing a lunch for the great outdoors, you may have a friend in the new “Eat” series of lunch boxes from Thermos. The “Fresh Food Container” set includes two food containers that preserve the freshness of cool foods, and you can pair that up with the company’s other insulated containers that preserve the food’s temperature. Finally, stack them into the Food Container Set’s picnic basket, which keeps your soups hot and desserts frozen. Comes in Rose Pink and Mint Green colors. Available at Tokyu Hands stores or online at www.thermos.co.jp.

SAKURA FRENCH TOAST RECIPE AND PHOTO BY RIEKO SUZUKI

Enjoy sakura season with perfect “hybrid” French toast! The sweetness of the sakekasu (sake lees) milk sauce with cherry blossoms, layered with azuki (sweet red beans) and English-muffin French toast, make for a spring deliciousness sure to bring a smile to your face. Servings: 2 Cooking time: 1 hr (active 30 min) French toast • 2 English muffins • 1 large egg • 80cc milk • 80cc heavy cream • 1 tbsp sugar • 1 tbsp butter

El Pato BY JOAN BAILEY

Opened just five years ago, El Pato is already one of Koenji’s best-loved watering holes. Settled at one of the bar’s three wooden tables, our group of four surveyed what was on tap for the evening and opted for pints of Shiga Kogen’s IPA and Indian Summer Saison. A selection of American imports such as Anchor Steam, Lost Coast, and Brooklyn Brewery are also on hand. The Saison, with notes of citrus and hops, fairly crackled on the taste buds, quickly becoming the table favorite. The small but dense menu included pizza, hamburgers, a nice handful of starters and salads, BBQ spare ribs, and an assortment of pastas. Vegetarian options are available on the menu and by request. We opted for the brussels sprout chips, a New York pizza, burgers, and a large order of the fish and chips. The mekabbetsu—Brussels sprout—chips appeared warm and delightfully crunchy. Sautéed and served with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, this relatively new vegetable in Japan proved a hit. Four well-sized pieces of piping-hot fish came atop a tidy mountain of externally crispy, internally delectably soft fries. The fish was tender and flavorful and the tartar sauce tangy. The burgers arrived cut in half, the long metal sandwich pins a necessity for these little

RECIPE

Sakura sakekasu sauce • 2 salted sakuras • 50g sake lees • 100cc milk • 80cc sweetened condensed milk • 1 tsp olive oil • 50cc heavy cream

Filling/decoration • 4 tbsp azuki (canned) • 2-4 salted sakura • 2 sakura leaves (packed for cooking)

DIRECTIONS:

beasts. The pink-centered lamb patty sat atop generous slices of tomato, avocado, and crisp lettuce on springy focaccia bread. The regular burger arrived in a similar outfit, but on a toasted bun instead, pleasing the tastebuds. The New York pizza came with a generous serving of fresh arugula sprinkled with parmesan cheese. We snapped up each perfectly gooey slice, with its blend of Italian herbs, in a flash, folding it the way New Yorkers believe they invented. Our stomachs full, we didn’t have room for more—although the plates of pasta going by looked saucy, the salads verdant as they followed close behind. “I guess we just have to come back,” said my husband with a smile as we left. Note: Parties of more than four should reserve in advance. Days off vary, so call ahead. 2-22-10 Koenji-kita, Suginami-ku. Tel: 03 6795 7888. Lunch: 12-3:30pm, dinner: 6-10pm. Koenji.

1. Mix egg, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and butter well. Combine with English muffin (sliced in half) in zipper storage bag and leave for 30 min or longer. 2. Dip salted sakura in water for few minutes to remove salt, then put on paper towel. 3. With hand blender or mixer, blend sauce ingredients. Pour into saucepan and heat on low, until just before it boils. Add olive oil and keep heating. Let it boil gently, mixing with spoon frequently for 2-3 min. When texture becomes heavy, turn off heat and add heavy cream. Mix well, then pour into container and cool in fridge. 4. In frying pan, heat the butter. Add English muffin mixture and cook on medium low. 5. On plate, place sakura leaf and the bottom half of French toast, spread azuki on it, and top it with upper half of French toast. Pour sakekasu sauce on French toast generously, and garnish with sakura.

Rieko Suzuki Rieko blogs bilingual recipes at http://meturl.com/ruby

1 DISH FROM ¥780 1 DRINK FROM ¥500 COURSES FROM ¥4,000

NEW OPEN! Let’s Eat Crab!

ENJOY DELICIOUS CRAB, CASUALLY.

CARAT has the concept of allowing customers to enjoy eating crab, casually. The high quality crabs come directly from Rausu, Hokkaido. The restaurant is open 24/365, so please come to enjoy a nice dinner at the bar or in the café, or close out your day with some noodles! e Lin i do ong Ōe pp Ro

Police Station Roppongi Crossing

aka

araiz

Imo

6-1-6 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5413-3689 e Lin gi http://carat-roppongi.com n iya Hib oppo Almond R Open 24 hours Family Mart Lunchtime: 11am~3pm

Post Office

city life

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BY VICKIE SKORJI, DIRECTOR OF TOKYO ENGLISH LIFELINE (TELL) J. Howard Miller's "We Can Do It!" poster from 1943

depression in women were found to be three to four times higher in those who were exposed to sexual trauma during childhood, or physical abuse or intimate-partner violence in adulthood. Experiencing domestic violence puts victims at further risk for unintended pregnancy, HIV infection, alcohol abuse, suicide, long-term physical injury, and death at the hands of their partner—the killer in 38 percent of all female murders. Research shows that following rape, one in three women will develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Depression is the most common mental health problem for women and often leads to suicide—a leading cause of death for women under 60.

MENTAL HEALTH

nternational Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, an event started in 1909 to celebrate women’s achievements and to promote global gender equality. This year’s theme was, “make it happen.” While significant gains have been made over the last century in many developed countries, gender equality still has a long way to go. Tangible differences exist in women’s healthcare for both physical and mental issues, rights, wages, maternity care, and jobs.

CAUSES OF DEPRESSION Sexual and intimate partner violence occurs in large numbers in every country. Over one-third of all women worldwide will experience sexual or intimate violence in their lifetime. Rates of

Stigma surrounding mental health issues creates the greatest barrier to receiving help and promoting recovery. Mental illness remains highly stigmatized in Japan. Many Japanese believe recovery from mental illness is not possible, that it comes as the result of personal weakness or character flaws, rather than biology.

FINDING HELP Fifteen years ago, I moved to Asia, and twelve years ago to Japan as a trailing spouse. In Asia, my career as a neuropsychologist drew to an abrupt halt due to licensing and registration requirements. Like many foreign women in Japan, I found my work options were limited or nonexistent in my profession; so I focused on being a mother and being in a new country.

In 2004, I hit a low point when my daughter returned home for university. I realized everyone was moving forward with their lives except me. It was then that I found the Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL), and my life just keeps moving forward; from a volunteer phone counselor, to assistant director, practicing therapist, to Lifeline director. Over the years, I’ve spoken to hundreds of women—both western and Japanese returnees—who applied for the training because they were lost and wanted to feel valued again. Like those who supported me, I’ve supported many through career changes, and encouraged others to reach for bigger goals. Through TELL, I’ve been able to join forces with other organizations and help make noise about domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and a range of other issues affecting women’s lives and mental health in Japan.

MAKING IT HAPPEN For four days (March 22-25), Tokyo will host the 6th World Congress on Women’s Mental Health. Focusing on trauma, depression, and resilience, the event is organized by the International Association for Women’s Mental Health. The Global Gender Gap Index 2014, compiled by the World Economic Forum, ranked Japan 104th out of 142 countries. Helping sensitize women to mental health issues and giving them the confidence to seek assistance is vital. Gender inequality, lower wages, and difficulty in obtaining full-time employment after giving birth can all impact women’s ability to divorce or escape abusive relationships. More investment is needed, both on a global level and in Japan, to prevent violence against women and girls. National campaigns addressing mental health issues and educational programs at community, business, and governmental levels are desperately needed to improve Japan’s Global Gender Gap ranking. The benefits would be felt by not only women, but also their families and ultimately the country. All girls and women should have the right to a life free from violence, to contribute equally in society, and receive equal pay. This month, TELL is making a noise about women’s mental health issues. Help us raise awareness of women’s rights issues in Japan, make change happen, and invest in the future.

The following organizations offer various forms of support and counseling, as well as assist those wanting to help. TELL An accredited non-profit organization providing a wide range of services to the international and Japanese communities, including a crisis support line, face-to-face counseling, child protection, and suicide prevention, 9am to 11pm, 365 days a year. Tel: 03-5774-0992. www.telljp.com

Resilience A non-profit organization specializing in support for victims with emotional scars stemming from harassment or bullying at home or in the workplace, as well as providing workshops, lectures, and training sessions. In Japanese only. http://resilience-jp. heteml.jp

Kapatiran A free counseling service dealing with everything from legal to domestic issues, catering primarily to Filipino citizens living and working in Japan. Tue & Sat, 11am-4pm. Tel: 03-3432-6449. E-mail: kapatiran.tko@nskk.org. http://kapatiran.jp/?lang=en

For Empowering Women (FEW) A non-government, business and social networking organization helping women professionally and personally, focusing on career development, social and volunteer activities, etc. www.fewjapan.com

Lighthouse A non-profit organization providing support and counseling for victims of abuse in Japan, as well as offering education and training for counselors. In Japanese only. Tel: 0120-879-871. http://lhj.jp

city life

BIZARRE BEAUTY Unusual ways to treat yourself in the city BY MOMOKO MOCHIZUKI

When it comes to the attainment of beauty, it seems there’s no path left untrodden. From the daily wearing of makeup to cosmetic surgical procedures, women all around the world spare no effort and expense to get one step closer to their ideal. From beautifying sound waves to golden facials, here are a few of the non-conventional beauty treatments offered in Tokyo. “Sound Esute” salon Releaf in Harajuku offers a treatment that uses sound waves for a variety of different purposes such as preventing balding, improving blood circulation, or toning any part of the body. Based on a treatment called Cymatics Therapy, used medically in hospitals and clinics, Sound Esute uses a device called the Cyma Doctor that emits sound at different wavelengths to rejuvenate your cells and even provide psychological benefits. 2F Pino Harajuku, 4-28-18 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Meiji-Jingūmae. Tel: 03-3403-1991. http://touchez.jp Ciz Labo, a salon with branches in Ebisu, Ginza, and Omotesandō among others, offers a treatment using real gold in which gold foil (94.5% pure gold and 5.5% silver) is applied to the entire face to improve blood circulation and leave you with supple skin. The salon also offers a super deluxe treatment priced at ¥648,000 called the “Champagne Crystal Celebrity Course” that uses 20 bottles of ¥20,000 Champagne, and involves bathing in the expensive bubbly while it’s poured down your back. The carbonation has detoxifying effects, and improves blood circulation. The price is definitely intended for “celebrities,” but if you ever dreamed of bathing in Champagne, this might be your chance! Ebisu Branch. 1-1-40 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku. Ebisu. Tel: 03-3797-4116. www.ci-z.com

fashion fix

FASHION “WEEK” BY SAMUEL THOMAS, FASHION EDITOR

“Fashion Week” has to be one of the biggest misnomers in the fashion lexicon, frankly bordering on a bare-faced lie at times. Even the official Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Tokyo schedule sprawls past either side of this designation, and the scope of events is guaranteed to keep you busy well into April. Those interested can check the full

schedule at the official homepage (http://tokyo-mbfashionweek.com), and keep in mind that there’s a whole host of exhibitions, installations, and events going on off-schedule—which I’m afraid you’ll just have to navigate yourself. My advice is to hit social media and jump at any open invitations.

ON POINT One of the biggest questions facing Tokyo Fashion Week as a whole is one of identity. Simply put, how does the week reflect Tokyo? And by proxy, how does it reflect Japanese fashion? It’s easy to get distracted by brands such as Black by Vanquish, G.V.G.V., and 5351 Pour Les Hommes et Les Femmes, that acutely reflect what you see on the streets of Tokyo outside the venues. But while there are doubtless elements of those brands which reflect a standard of finish and awareness of layering that you could say typify the Japanese market, they’re still brands working in the Western fashion genre. Few would associate them with the traditional. However, tradition and fashion rarely go hand in hand— one celebrates the past and continuity, while the other wants to tear it up, or at the very least, deconstruct it. Stepping up to offer a vision of traditional Japanese clothing in the Fashion Week context are brands like kimono maestro Jotaro Saito and artisanal label Matohu. Each season, their collections propose a simple point—“modern” does not have to mean “Western”— and whether it’s kimono in gothic snakeskin print, or traditional workwear rendered in top-of-the-range textiles, these two designers are taking the lead on this ongoing discussion.

Fashion Week has a tendency to tease—after all, you see all these great clothes on the catwalk—but with the taunting caveat that they’re not going to be on sale for at least three or four months. Those in need of a bit of instant retail gratification would do well to head on over to the 7th Shibuya Fashion Festival, which kicks off on the 21st of March with a guerrilla fashion show just a stone’s throw from Hachiko. On that note, the iconic dog will be dressing up for the occasion in a number of fashionable ensembles, and if you join him, you could be in the running for a ¥5,000 shopping voucher if you’re snapped by the organizers. Over 200 shops in the Shibuya area will be participating with a range of workshops, sales, and parties, so check out the official homepage (www.shibuyafashionfestival. com) to see what’s going on.

UPCOMING

Affectionately termed “Fashion Week Flu,” the inevitable consequence of a barrage of shows, parties, and all-round excess, does not have to put an end to your week. Rather, it presents an opportunity to accessorize with the current boom in fashionable face masks. Designer options are all the rage, but even your local drugstore is likely to stock a range of easy-to-coordinate copies to suit your look.

Photo by Samuel Thomas

SHOPPING STRATEGY

STREET FOCUS

CHECK METROPOLISJAPAN.COM FOR THE LATEST FASHION CALENDAR. 17

movies

BY DON MORTON

featured movie

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING It was only a matter of time before a film was made about this remarkable man. Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with ALS 50 years ago and given two years to live. You can confidently say he has beaten the odds— and in the process, he turned the world of science on its head with his groundbreaking concepts of the Big Bang, black holes, and boundaries of the universe. But like its cinematic cousin, The Imitation Game, the film doesn’t try to explain the science. For that, read Hawking’s most excellent A Brief History of Time. Instead it concentrates on the formidable personal challenges faced by the physicist and his first wife Jane (upon whose memoir the film is based). Of course the film belongs to Eddie Redmayne, who took home an Oscar for his painstakingly detailed por trayal, without unnecessar y exaggeration, of a brilliant man gradually losing control of his body’s muscles. But its emotional center is Felicity Jones as Jane, who matches Redmayne scene for scene with an equally powerful but far subtler performance. This brainy bio is inspirational, literate, schmaltz-free, and quite moving, bringing this hardened reviewer close to tears more than once. Japanese title: Hakase to Kanojo no Theory. (123 min)

NEW

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB The 2006 Ben Stiller ve h i c l e N i g h t a t t h e Museum of fered the mildly amusing spectacle of all the exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History coming to life. It was pure multiplex fodder, but at least encouraged kid curiosity. The plodding 2009 sequel merely repurposed the same material. The best thing I can say about this flaccid, Londonbased cash grab (aside from one amusing tweak on M.C. Escher’s “Relativity”), is that it’s the last one. One recurring gag is a pissing monkey. Go to a museum instead. Japanese title: Night Museum: Egypt Oh no Himitsu. (97 min)

NEW

CLOWN As a birthday surprise fo r hi s so n , a m o d e l father and husband (Andy Powers) dons an antique clown costume he had found hidden away in an attic. The problems start when he finds he can’t get the suit off. Ditto the red nose, fright wig, and whiteface makeup. But this is child’s play to his (bwa-ha-ha-ha!) subsequent turning into a demon with a taste for the flesh of children. No laughing matter. Also starring Peter Stormare, this Eli Roth-produced direct-to-DVD schlock-fest clearly is not for anyone suffering from coulrophobia (look it up). Or anyone, period, for that matter, save hardcore horror fans. (100 min)

SONG ONE An aspiring young musician in a coma, his semiestranged sister (Anne Hathaway) returning to Brooklyn from overseas to sit at his bedside and hope, the boy’s indiefolk idol (Johnny Flynn) joining the vigil, mom (Mary Steenburgen) revealing truths, and the curative power of music. Not a lot of drama, but also zilch melodrama. There’s a sense of realism to this intuitive, low-key musical love story by newcomer writer/director Kate Barker-Froyland, which refreshingly confounds your cinematic expectations at every turn. I liked how it tries not at all to be hip, and the fine acoustic music. Japanese title: Brooklyn no Koibito tachi. (88 min)

INTO THE WOODS Ro b M a r s h a l l ’s t r a c k record in the tricky craft of adapting stage musicals includes an Oscarwinner (Chicago) and a real turkey (Nine). This one’s in between, a toneddown (it’s Disney) version of Stephen Sondheim’s far racier stage epic that mixes and matches four Brothers Grimm fairy tales. The first half is fun, creative, and exuberant, but then the mash-up starts falling apart as the story lines begin tripping over one another. Some magical moments, interleaved with embarrassing missteps. Great cast includes Meryl Streep, Anna Kendrick, Emily Blunt, and about ten minutes of Johnny Depp. (125 min)

JESSABELLE A broke, temp orari l y w h e e l chai r- b o u n d young woman is forced to move into her goodol’-boy father’s place in creepy-swampy Louisiana and deal with a houseful of Southern Gothic horror clichés. A bathtub scene? Seriously? Some southern-fried voodoo. Her dead mom doing tarot readings on VHS and warning of a “presence” in the house. Yawn. Sarah Snook, who was so good in Predestination, does her best to make this generic material work, but all she succeeds in doing is making the wait for the phenomenally unsurprising final twist a little easier. Directed by Saw series veteran Kevin Greutert. (90 min)

THE IMITATION GAME While no one can be called the inventor of the computer, Alan Turing comes close. The machine he built to break the Nazis’ Enigma code saved thousands of lives. But this was leavened with tragedy when he broke a different code: The petty, antediluvian social code of 1940s Britain that made homosexuality a crime. Benedict Cumberbatch puts in another flawless performance, expressing the man’s genius and arrogance as well as his social clumsiness and loneliness. Script wisely doesn’t try to explain the math, and streamlines events into a cinematically accessible whole without dumbing it down. Japanese title: Imitation Game: Enigma to Tensai Sugakusha no Himitsu. (114 min)

NEW

The Theory of Everything: © UNIVERSAL PICTURES; Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb: © 2014 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.; Clown: © 2014 Vertebra Clown Film Inc.; Song One: © 2014 Song One Funding LLC All Rights Reserved; Into the Woods: ©2015 Disney Enterprises, Inc.; Jessabelle: © 2015 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.; The Imitation Game: © 2014 BBP IMITATION, LLC; Good People: © 2013 GOOD PRODUCTIONS. INC; Begin Again: © 2013 KILLIFISH PRODUCTIONS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; Predestination: © 2013 Predestination Holdings Pty Ltd, Screen Australia, Screen Queensland Pty Ltd and Cutting Edge Post Pty Ltd; Annabelle: © 2014 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND RATPAC-DUNE ENTERTAINMENT LLC; Chef: © Merrick Morton; The Fault in Our Stars: © 2014 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX.

More reviews: metropolisjapan.com/movies

GOOD PEOPLE How about moronic people? A law-abiding but cash-strapped American couple in London finds a bag of money in the basement flat they had rented to a lowlife of questionable career goals who just died of a heroin overdose. They decide to keep the money. What could go wrong? Don’t these people ever go to the movies? James Franco and Kate Hudson play it so generic, they nearly disappear (though in Franco’s case this is a plus), and Tom Wilkinson seems to be channeling Columbo as the investigating copper. The final “thrilling” scene in a house being refurbished plays like Home Alone. Japanese title: Perfect Plan. (90 min)

BEGIN AGAIN Direc tor John Carney transplants the theme of his lovely 2006 Once to NYC with name actors. Keira Knightley plays a freshly dumped songwriter coerced into doing one personal, acoustic song in a noisy New York club. The only one listening is a drunken, washed-up music producer (a great Mark Ruffalo). In the film’s most memorable scene, her performance is replayed through his eyes, as his imagination adds sidemen only he can hear. The two begin a professional courtship that could save both their lives. Good music, appealing characters and a story just offbeat enough to keep you interested. Japanese title: Hajimari no Uta. (103 min)

PREDESTINATION A high - concep t , low budget existential puzzle that will reward t hink ing mov ie g o er s . A complex , paradoxi cal, time-travel mind-messer that mixes elements of Looper, Memento and Back to the Future. Ethan Hawke is a sort of time cop who, in another time, happens upon a fellow whose backstory is a real mind(not to mention gender-) bender. Sarah Snook shows in one movie more range than most actors do in an entire career. I can’t really tell you much more for fear of spoiling some of the surprises, of which there are many. But this one will play with your brain while it touches your heart. (97 min)

ANNABELLE Hey, a movie about a creepy antique doll! Well, that’s new. This c h e a p o s p i n - of f p re quel from The Conjuring focuses on the backstor y of the titular doll that appeared late in that vastly better movie. This cashgrab offers nothing remotely original, the music’s oppressive, the acting’s anemic, the scares are surface-level and instantly forgettable, the dialogue’s labored, and it plagiarizes several other movies. (It’s such a blatant rip-off of Rosemary’s Baby that the main characters are even named Mia and John.) At least the doll is not animated. Chucky, this ain’t; skippable, this is. Japanese title: Annabelle: Shiryōkan no Ningyo. (98 min)

CHEF If you know any thing about writer/direc tor/ a c t o r J o n F a v r e a u ’s c a re e r (s t a r t i n g w i t h personal films such as Swingers and Made, then on to blockbusters like Iron Man and Cowboys and Aliens), this can be seen as a veiled autobiography. It’s the heartwarming tale of a talented chef quitting his job in a prestigious but unadventurous restaurant to get back to his creative culinary roots in a beat-up Cuban sandwich truck. Selling back in. Not a lot of drama here, but it’s knowledgeable and continually amusing; more a relaxed, slow-food cinematic meal, set to great salsa, R&B, and funk music. Super cast. Japanese title: Chef: Mitsuboshi Food Truck Hajimemashita. (115 min)

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS Stay with me here, and don’t dismiss this spirited YA romance on its downer topic. Hazel and Gus—Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, great chemistry—meet in a teens-with-cancer support group. They live in the present, because, well ... they don’t have a future. Reluctantly, they fall in love. The film is never maudlin or overtly manipulative (okay, a little in the last scenes), it earns the tears and offers honesty along with, yes, humor. The acting is superb, the characters are fully realized, and the dialogue is sharp. Willem Dafoe shines in a subplot. This is what Nicholas Sparks keeps trying to do. Japanese title: Kitto, Hoshi no Sei Ja Nai. (125 min)

©NISHI-ZO 西村映造

eiga Ac tress Maki Mizui has made some brave choices after transitioning from being a pin - up By Rob Schwartz (“gravure”) model. She starred as a girl experiencing abuse in Endless Blue (2009), which has great relevance to the present film. Mizui also had roles in splatter fests like Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl and Tokyo Gore Police (which she also wrote). Now Mizui takes the reigns for her directorial debut, and she’s only 21. This powerful and harrowing tale first unspooled at the much-loved Yūbari International Fantastic Film Festival in late February. In a tale that could be taken from recent headlines in Japan, Mayuka (Kayano Masuyama of AKB48 fame) is abducted on her way home from a part-time job. The man responsible (Ken Koba), a serial sex offender, holds and torments her, but in the end releases her unharmed. Deeply traumatized, Mayuka is wracked with guilt and fear but does not inform the police. The resultant portrayal of a victim’s psychology is astute, disturbing, and effective. This is a mini tour-de-force. Hopefully it portends big things from the versatile talent Mizui. English title: Kept. (70 min)

movie news An escaped robot that becomes intelligent sounds like the plotline of the ’80s comedy Short Circuit. But the vision of the director does a lot to determine the tone of a film, and no one will mistake the new film Chappie, directed by Neill Blomkamp, for anything other than a sci-fi romp. “If anyone liked [Blomkamp’s debut] District 9, which I loved, it has got that same feel,” Hugh Jackman said at the Berlin premiere. “It is a science fiction film, but it is very realistic and incredibly touching. It also makes you think a little bit.” Jackman plays an engineer who builds humancontrolled robots to fight crime in South Africa. When his boss (Sigourney Weaver) greenlights an A.I. model by a rival developer (Dev Patel), crime surges, and a prototype named Chappie escapes. Patel called the experience of filming with Blomkamp in South Africa “amazing.” “The crews were so happy to work with him, because he is a hero there.” Weaver called herself “a huge admirer” of Blomkamp and said she jumped at the chance to work with him because his script was so original. The two will have the chance to work together again—the director has been tapped to helm the upcoming Alien sequel, which will see the actress returning as Ripley. Chappie opens in Japan May 23. Kevin Mcgue

cinematic underground Lace up your Adidas for the re-release of early hip-hop film Wild Style (1983; pictured), at Cinema Rise (13-17 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku; www.cinemarise.com) for three weeks, starting March 21. The plot about a reporter trying to track down a graffiti artist is forgettable—what made it a cult hit and source of countless samples used in songs were the performances by Grandmaster Flash, Fab Five Freddy, and others … Before the technology existed to add subtitles, silent films were shown in Japan accompanied by benshi—narrators who would translate, explain the story, do voices, and even do sound effects. The art form is still alive and Akiko Sasaki will show you how it’s done with Buster Keaton’s 1926 comedy masterpiece The General at Cinemart Shinjuku (3-815 Roppongi, Minato-ku; http://meturl.com/cinemartshinjuku), on March 22 at 10am and 12:30pm … Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho (2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku; www.ht-cinema.com) has something for multi-lingual cinema fans this month. The German comedy Back on Track, on from March 21, has laughs and heart in a story about a former Olympian who fends off the boredom of a retirement home by training for the Berlin Marathon. And Vanessa Paradis plays a single mother of a boy with Down syndrome in the French-language Café de Flore, on from March 28. KM

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“Tokyo’s premier multidisciplinary rehabilitation center” • Assessments and treatments Club 360 is a multidisciplinary health performed by a team of and fitness center, which also offers internationally trained, registered and personal training, group classes, experienced physiotherapists. boxing and kickboxing. • Private treatment rooms • Large, fully equipped rehab gym • Central location 3 min walk from Roppongi Hills • Consultations available in English and Japanese Sports injuries Musculoskeletal and spinal conditions (neck and back pain) Ergononomic and postural assessments Gait assessments Rehabilitation programs

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arts&culture ART

MIKA NINAGAWA The Japanese artist’s filtered image of self BY C.B. LIDDELL

The show’s title, “Mika Ninagawa: Self Image,” might lead one to expect a narcissistic focus—and, in a sense, it is. But Ninagawa’s “selfies” are hardly a vanity project. This is signalled by the fact that the section of the show dedicated to these is the only part that eschews her trademark “Ninagawa color,” using bleaker, starker monochrome instead. Several of these, including some of an “intimate” nature, hint at the emotional turmoil of the thrice-divorced 49-year-old. They also suggest that she uses photography as a way of coming to terms with her emotions. As a subtle touch, the curators have decorated the gallery here with the chess-board pattern of Ninagawa’s bathroom, the backdrop of some of them.

f there’s one word that sums up the work of photographic artist Mika Ninagawa, it’s “lush.” Famed for her “Ninagawa color,” her pictures of flowers, goldfish, and celebrities seem to “bleed” and “melt” with vivid colors, rather like cheese on pizza, creating images that are visceral, raw, and—most importantly—luxuriant. The daughter of famed theater director Yukio Ninagawa, she’s also very much part of the Japanese cultural elite, and much in demand for portraits, advertisements, and magazine shoots. But side-by-side with her commercial work, she also maintains a serious “art” career, with themed photo books and exhibitions, like the one at the Hara Museum of Art, which explore the medium of photography in more profound ways.

But while this part of the exhibition has an element of guilty voyeurism about it, the most effective and artistic part of the show is the large downstairs gallery, featuring a collage of colorful images. Supplementing her usual trademarks—flowers, goldfish, parted lips—are also images of stuffed animals and people at a musical festival. In these deceptively soft images, as lush and enticing as anything shot for a magazine spread, we encounter Ninagawa’s hard-edged cynicism. With the festival goers, she makes a point of highlighting their hands thrown up in the air as if in distress. “Losing one’s sense of ego while dancing to explosive music is a very primitive act, but do they look like they are having fun and are in a state of euphoria?” Ninagawa asks. “It seems to me they aren’t. On the contrary, they look as if they are calling for help or are frightened by the muchtoo-bright light.” This sense of darkness that lies just under the surface also explains her obsession with goldfish, which feature prominently in a video installation. Ninagawa is drawn to these creatures because they have been reshaped solely for the purpose of human appreciation. “By compounding deformity with deformity, it becomes more interesting as a shape, but weaker as a life form,” she explains. “Its lifespan is shortened as it becomes more susceptible to bacterial infection.” In essence, Ninagawa’s work explores the balance between beauty and strength, color and shape, femininity and masculinity; and between the ability to approach reality directly or through various filters of perversion. But these themes and dichotomies are buried deep in her work, like the poison or medicine of a sugar-coated pill. Hara Museum of Contemporary Art, until May 10.

agenda

WATCH LIST

hot tickets

APR 25-JUN 28 Naruto Exhibition

Experience the spectacular world of manga master Masashi Kishimoto’s iconic Naruto. Apr 25-Jun 28, 10am-8pm. ¥500-1,800 (adv)/ ¥800-2,000 (door). Mori Arts Center Gallery. Roppongi. http://naruto-ten.com Tickets on sale now

Concerts POPULAR The Big Nothing: Angels & Demons

A night of rock ‘n’ roll, drinks, and fun! Mar 20, 8pm. ¥2,300. Heaven’s Door. Sangenjaya. Tel: 03-3411-6774. http://j.mp/ nothingangels2015 Colin and Yozy (COZY)

A dance and music spectacle for the eyes and ears. Mar 22, 6:30-10pm. ¥1,600-1,900. Otsuka MEETS. Otsuka. Tel: 03-6303-3226. http://meets. rinky.info

MAR 24 Mark Ronson

English soul musician, DJ, and producer, famed for his work with Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen, recently scoring a hit with “Uptown Funk.” Mar 24, 7:30pm. ¥3,500. Daikanyama Unit. Daikanyama. Tel: 03-5459-8630. http://j.mp/ markronson2015 Tickets on sale now

American pop-rock band’s Tokyo show with supporting act New Politics. You’ll thank them for the memories. Mar 30, 7pm. ¥7,000. Studio Coast. Shin-Kiba. http://j.mp/ falloutboy2015 Rhye

R&B musical duo that initially began as an internet-based mystery, posting several singles online without providing any background information or contact details. Mar 30, 7:30pm. ¥6,000. Liquidroom. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. http://j.mp/ rhye2015 Ne-Yo

Rancid

American punk rock band founded by ’80s punk veterans Tim Armstrong and Matt Freeman, who previously played in the highly influential ska-punk band Operation Ivy. Mar 25, 7pm. ¥6,800. Akasaka Blitz. Akasaka. http://j.mp/ rancid2015 Alexandra Stan

Romanian pop star and model known for “Mr. Saxobeat” and “Lollipop (Param Pam Pam).” Mar 26, 7:30pm. ¥6,500. Ebisu Garden Hall. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5423-7111. http://j.mp/ alexandravictor Soft Machine Legacy

Originally named Soft Machine, the Canterbury rockers now tour as Soft Machine Legacy, with some former and new members. With special guest Keith Tippett. Mar 26-27, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥6,400-8,400. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ softmachinelegacy2015 Skindred

Welsh rock band whose musical style mixes heavy metal, alt rock, reggae, and punk, and who are well known for their energetic and involving live performances. Mar 28, 6pm. ¥4,000. WWW. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-7685. http://j.mp/skindred2015

The American R&B singer comes closer to perform a show that’s guaranteed to be “so sick.” Mar 30, 8pm. ¥9,000. Pacifico Yokohama. Minatomirai. http://j.mp/ neyo2015 Rockapella

American a cappella group who sings original vocal music and covers of pop and rock songs. Mar 31, 7pm. ¥6,500-8,500. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ rockapella2015 Azealia Banks

Controversial American rapper and singer-songwriter, whose music is as popular as her feuds with fellow rappers. Mar 31, 8pm. ¥5,500. Tsutaya O-East. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-4681. http://j.mp/ azealiabanks2015 Mastodon

American metal band whose songs feature progressive concepts and unique instrumentation. Apr 1, 7pm. ¥7,500. Liquidroom. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. http://j.mp/ mastodon2015 The New Flying Zabutons

A short history of R&B, part one. Apr 3, 7-11pm. ¥1,000. Rooster North Side. Ogikubo. www.ogikuborooster.com/north

Liv Warfield

Oregonian R&B singersongwriter, named “Portland’s Most Soulful Singer,” and newest member of her mentor Prince’s New Power Generation. Mar 26-27, 7 & 9:30pm; Mar 28, 5 & 8pm. ¥7,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ livwarfield2015

Arrested Development

Fall Out Boy

The Waterboys

This ain’t a scene; it's the

Band whose music is a mix of

Grammy Award-winning American alternative hip-hop group who were named Band of the Year by Rolling Stone magazine in 1993. Apr 4, 6 & 9pm; Apr 5, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥7,500-9,500. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ arresteddevelopment2015

MAY 30 Nickelback

One of Canada’s most controversial rock bands come to Japan. This is how we remind you of that fact. May 30, 7pm. ¥9,500. Tokyo Taiikukan. Kokuritsukyogijo or Sendagaya. http://j.mp/nickelback2015 Tickets on sale from Mar 21

Celtic folk music with rock and roll. Apr 6, 7:30pm. ¥8,000. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/ waterboys2015 Tropics

Chris Ward, a British producer and multi-instrumentalist whose music is a little bit chillwave, a little bit polyrhythmics. Apr 7, 7pm. ¥4,500-6,500. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/tropics2015 Battle Beast

Finnish heavy metal band who rose to prominence by winning two major band competitions in 2010. Apr 7, 7pm. ¥6,800. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/ battlebeast2015 Stick Men

Progressive rock band formed by the bassist Tony Levin, with special guest David Cross. Apr 10, 7pm. ¥6,000-8,000. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ stickmen2015

JUN 25-JUL 5 Jersey Boys

A rock musical following Franki Valli and the Four Seasons’ early beginnings, their rise, and their eventual fall. A show you can’t take your eyes off of. Jun 25-Jul 5, various times. ¥9,000-13,000. Theatre Orb. Shibuya. Tel: 0570-550-799. http://j.mp/jerseyboys2015 Tickets on sale Mar 21

JAZZ/WORLD Bobby McFerrin

The reggae and jazz great reminds you to not worry—be happy. Mar 20 & 23, 7 & 9:30pm; Mar 21-22, 5 & 8pm. ¥12,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. http://j.mp/mcferrin2015 Gerald Albright

American jazz saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist who was one of the ten featured saxophonists who performed at Bill Clinton’s inauguration. Mar 24, 7pm. ¥7,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ albright2015

American internationally-known jazz vocalist who has recorded and performed with some of the most notable figures on the American jazz scene. Mar 31-Apr 3, 6:30 & 9pm; Apr 4, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. http://j.mp/merrill2015

Colm Wilkinson: Broadway and Beyond Japan

Irish tenor best known for originating the role of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables. Apr 18, 6:30pm; Apr 19, 3pm; Apr 21-22, 2pm. ¥7,000-12,000. Theatre Orb. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. http://j.mp/ wilkinson2015

Mexican jazz drummer who composed the music for the Academy Award-winning film Birdman. Apr 14, 7pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ antoniosanchez2015

William Bell

Helen Merrill

Powerhouse vocalist brings her take on rock, blues, and soul to Tokyo. Apr 18, 6:30-11pm. ¥1,500 (adv)/¥2,000 (door). Yotsuya Lotus. Yotsuyasanchome. Tel: 03-5315-4781. http://yotsuyalotus.com

Antonio Sanchez & Migration

Jamaican reggae musician, multi-instrumentalist, singer, and actor who is the only living musician to hold the Order of Merit. Apr 14-16, 6:30 & 9:30pm. ¥10,000-12,000. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ jimmycliff2015

Chart-topping British singersongwriter puts on a show that’ll make you go “boom, clap.” Apr 16, 7pm. ¥6,000. Liquidroom. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. http://j.mp/ charli2015

Davina Robinson

bandleader, and music producer who was the principal architect of P-Funk, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. Apr 12, 6 & 9pm; Apr 13, 6:30 & 9:30pm. ¥12,000-14,000. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ georgeclinton2015

Jimmy Cliff

Charli XCX

American bubblegum singersongwriter who’s all about that bass. Apr 18, 7pm. ¥5,800. Laforet Museum. Harajuku. Tel: 03-5413-3072. http://j.mp/ trainor2015

One of the biggest drum festivals in Japan. The main event involves 800 taiko performers presenting an exciting show in appreciation of nature and hope for world peace. Apr 18-19, 10am-5pm. Free. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. Narita. http://j. mp/naritataiko2015 Tickets on sale now

Jazz, rock, and funk trio with members Charnett Moffett, Stanley Jordan, and Eric McPherson. Mar 25-27, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥7,500-9,500. Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/ nettworktrio2015

English rock band led by former Oasis lead guitarist/ songwriter. Apr 16, 7pm. ¥9,000. Nippon Budokan. Kudanshita. http://j.mp/ gallagher2015

Meghan Trainor

APR 18-19 Narita Taiko Matsuri

Nettwork Trio

Memphis soul singersongwriter and former member of The Del Rios makes sure you don’t miss your water. Mar 28, 6 & 9pm; Mar 29, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥6,800-8,800. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ williambell2015

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

for free

Gonzalo Rubalcaba Quartet

Grammy Award-winning Cuban jazz pianist and composer Rubalcaba’s tribute to Charlie Haden. Apr 5, 5 & 8pm; Apr 6-7, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ rubalcabaquartet2015 Keziah Jones

Nigerian singer-songwriter and guitarist who describes his musical style as “blufunk,” a fusion between raw blues elements and hard, edgy funk rhythms. Apr 8-10, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ keziahjones2015

Herb Alpert & Lani Hall

Jazz trumpeter Alpert, who is the only recording artist to hit number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 pop chart as both a vocalist and an instrumentalist, and his wife Hall, a Grammy Award-winning singer. Apr 17 & 20, 7:30pm; Apr 18-19, 6pm. ¥14,800-18,040. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ alperthall2015

Dudamel, winner of the prestigious City of Toronto Glenn Gould Protégé Prize. Mar 28, 6pm. ¥9,000-26,000. Suntory Hall. Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/laphil2015 Michinoku Wind Orchestra

A music aid concert for high school brass band clubs in the coastal region of Iwate prefecture. Apr 1, 5pm. Free (admittance by lottery). Suntory Hall. Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/michinoku2015 Vittorio Grigolo

Italian operatic tenor who was chosen to become part of the Sistine Chapel Choir as a soloist at a young age. Apr 5, 2pm. ¥15,000-18,500. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999. www.operacity.jp/en Toyota Master Players, Wien

With performances of Mozart’s “Serenade in D major, K. 239 Serenata notturna,” Hummel’s “Concerto for Trumpet in E major,” and more. Apr 6, 7pm. ¥3,000-5,500. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/ toyotaplayers2015 Lim Hyung Joo

UN Peace Medal-winning South Korean operatic pop tenor and classical crossover singer. Apr 8, 7pm. ¥7,500. Suntory Hall. Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/limhyungjoo2015

Blue Mountain Boys

Classic country western and bluegrass. Every third Sat, 6:30 & 7:30pm. Free. Cafe Sepia. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3406-1300. www.nagaremono.com/sepia CLASSICAL Regis Pasquier

A great violinist of world fame who was awarded the First Prize for violin and chamber music at the Conservatoire National Superieur de Musique de Paris at the age of 12. Mar 24, 7pm. ¥6,500 (¥3,000 students). Toppan Hall. Iidabashi. Tel: 03-5840-2200. http://j.mp/pasquier2015 Marek Szpakiewicz Cello Recital

World-renowned Polish cellist’s first appearance in Japan. Mar 27, 7-9pm. ¥4,500. Oji Hall. Ginza. www.facebook.com/ ForJapanWereUnited

George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic

Los Angeles Philharmonic

American singer-songwriter,

Conducted by Gustavo

Kyung-wha Chung

Korean violinist who attended the prestigious Juilliard School. Apr 15, 7pm. ¥5,00012,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-2111. www.t-bunka.jp/en/

Clubbing FRIDAY 20 Microcosmos

Bahamania. House, soul: DJs Naiz, Chika, etc. From 12am. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-5496. www. microcosmos-tokyo.com The New Matrix Bar

Matrix Friday. Old-school hip-hop, west side, south side, all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm). Roppongi. www.matrixbar.jp Air

Privilege. Hip-hop: DJs Clark Kent, Izoh, etc. From

10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www. air-tokyo.com Sound Museum Vision

Power. Electro: DJs 80kidz, Halfby, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-57282824. www.vision-tokyo.com T2

Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Mark Sixma, Husman, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www. t2-shibuya.com Ageha

The Big Party. All mix, EDM: DJs Kaori, Komori, etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,000. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-5534-2525. www.ageha.com

Club Asia

19th Anniversary. Dub, bass music: DJs Baku, Kuranaka, etc. Live: Dry & Heavy and more. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www.clubasia.co.jp Endless Flight. House, disco: DJs Henrik Schwarz, Konstantin Sibold, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www. womb.co.jp Spring Funky Bass. Bass music, grime: DJs Swindle, Roska, etc. From 11:30pm. ¥3,500. Daikanyama. Tel: 03-5459-8630. www. unit-tokyo.com FRIDAY 27 Microcosmos

Build. Hip-hop: DJs Kingmck, Plastic Kid, etc. From 12am. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-5496. www. microcosmos-tokyo.com The New Matrix Bar

Matrix Friday. Old-school hip-hop, west side, south side, all mix: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 11:30pm). Roppongi. www. matrixbar.jp

Club Asia

Runway Afterparty. EDM: DJs Fukushima, Chiba, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,000. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www.clubasia. co.jp

Ballet composed by Sergei Prokofiev and performed by the K-Ballet Company. Mar 20 & 22, 2pm; Mar 21, 12:30 & 4:30pm. ¥6,000-13,500. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9111. http://j.mp/ kballetcinderella2015

Daikanyama Unit

Fatbros x Manual. DJs Shimoda, Alexander Lee Chang, etc. From 11pm. ¥1,500 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3780-3022 (evenings) / 070-6969-4816 (daytime). www.rubyroomtokyo.com Wah Wah. Rare groove: DJs Kuroda, Ryuhei, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Dance Cinderella

Womb

Ruby Room

The Room

¥3,000 (adv)/¥3,500 (door). Shibuya. Tel: 03-5728-2824. http://j.mp/sakuraparty2015

Air

Mad Decent Night. Hip-hop, electro: DJs Paul Devro, Liz, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-57843384. www.air-tokyo.com

Ucess the Lounge

Le Corsaire

Ballet loosely based on the poem The Corsair by Lord Byron, performed by the Tani Momoko Ballet Company. Mar 21, 2 & 7pm; Mar 22, 4pm. ¥3,000-12,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-38282111. www.t-bunka.jp/en

Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Opera Project XIII

Featuring Ravel’s L’enfant et les sortileges performed by the Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Orchestra. Mar 24, 7pm. ¥8,000-18,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-38282111. www.t-bunka.jp/en/

Exhibitions ENDING SOON Bartkira: Akira Meets The Simpsons Mash-Up Worldwide Art Project, Volume 3

A mash-up of “Akira” and the characters and setting from The Simpsons. Until Mar 21, 1-7pm. Free. Gallery Hakusen. Asagaya. www.bartkira.com Sense Modern

Romeo and Juliet

Performed by the Scottish Ballet Company. Mar 26, 7pm; Mar 27, 2 & 7pm; Mar 28, 2pm. ¥6,000-12,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9111. http://j.mp/ scottishballet2015 NHK Ballet no Kyōen

Japan’s best ballet companies and dancers gather to perform contemporary pieces as well as classics such as Carmen and Sleeping Beauty. Mar 28, 5pm. ¥3,000-12,000. NHK Hall. Harajuku or Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-3465-1751. http://j.mp/ nhkballet2015 Riverdance 20 Years

Showcasing works by Yozo Hamaguchi, a printmaker widely known as the artist who gave new life to mezzotint. Until Mar 22, 11am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥200-600. Musée Hamaguchi Yozo: Yamasa Collection. Suitengu-mae. Tel: 03-3665-0251. www. yamasa.com/musee/en Kishio Suga: Situated Latency

An artist of the Monoha movement that flourished in the years before and after 1970, who uses stone, wood, and sheet metal to create installations which consist not merely of the relationship between substances, but also of the minute and free relational structure between the space and materials as an object. Until Mar 22, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. www. mot-art-museum.jp/eng

Disko Klubb. Disco, house: DJs Force of Nature, Omi, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,000 w/1d. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-6807-1588. www.ucess.jp

Sound Museum Vision

Womb

The Room

Mashup. EDM: DJs Feenixpawl, Dantz, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

Champ. Funk, jazz: DJs Tominaga, Oibon, etc. From 10pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

With an incredible two decades of global success, this tour provides Riverdance fans old and new the opportunity to celebrate an incredible milestone for an incredible show. Apr 3-15, various times. ¥7,500-12,000. Theatre Orb. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. http://j.mp/ riverdance20years

SATURDAY 21

Rosas: Drumming

Constellations: Practices for Unseen Connections/ Discoveries

Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Yoshimasa, Hikaru, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www. t2-shibuya.com

Belgian choreographer Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker’s contemporary dance company Rosas’ production of Drumming, a dazzling dance set to a powerful score for percussion by the American minimalist Steve Reich. Apr 16-17, 7:30pm; Apr 18, 2pm. ¥1,000-6,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-53912111. www.geigeki.jp

The theme for this exhibition is “to draw invisible lines and to connect dots,” by introducing works that link different “places” and “times,” going beyond existing borders to spin together new relationships. Until Mar 22, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. www. mot-art-museum.jp/eng

Stage

Wonder Seeds

Microcosmos

City Hunter.Hip-hop: DJs Alamaki, Keita, etc. From 12am. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-5496. www.microcosmos-tokyo.com

Classics. Hip-hop: DJ Maseo and more. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5728-2824. www.vision-tokyo.com

Ageha The New Matrix Bar

Saturday Night Fever. Hip-hop, R&B, reggae: DJ Ykk and more. From 6pm. ¥1,000 (after 10pm). Roppongi. www. matrixbar.jp

Sesh On. Hip-hop: DJs Yanatake, Ty-Koh, etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,000. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-55342525. www.ageha.com Club Asia

Magic. House, disco: DJs Kawasaki, Endo, etc. From 9pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Hitsuji. Techno, electro: DJs Ishino, Lama, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www. clubasia.co.jp

Air

Ucess the Lounge

Disco Disco Disco. House, disco: DJs Daniel Wang, Nori, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com

Disko Klubb. Disco, house: DJs Force of Nature, Omi, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,000 w/1d. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-6807-1588. www.ucess.jp

Sound Museum Vision

Womb

Techno Invader. Techno: DJs Ken Ishii, Sunahara, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-57282824. www.vision-tokyo.com

Chic Miniature. House: DJs Ernesto Ferreyra, Pi-Ge, etc. Live: Chic Miniature. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb. co.jp

The Room

Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Dantz, Daijiro, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5428-8692. www. t2-shibuya.com

Liquidroom

Ageha

SATURDAY 28

Shangri-La. House, gay night: DJs Sawa, Chu, etc. From 11pm. ¥4,000. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-5534-2525. www. ageha.com

House of Liquid. Deep house: DJs Nick the Record, Bing, etc. From 11:30pm. ¥3,000. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. www.liquidroom.net

Sound Museum Vision

Kitsuné Club Night: Sakura Party. Creators collective from France working across genres.

APR 2-14

OPERA LA FORZA DEL DESTINO

Verdi’s masterpiece with its famous overture and grand human drama. Apr 2 & 8, 6:30pm; Apr 5, 11 & 14, 2pm, ¥6,480 - ¥21,600. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/english/ Manon Lescaut

Puccini’s opera about the beautiful, free-willed maiden Manon, and how the Chevalier des Grieux’s pure love for her ruins his life. Mar 21, 2pm. ¥5,400-27,000. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://j.mp/ lescaut2015

An open-call exhibition aimed to select and sell potential works of young artists, providing an opportunity to connect young artists with art lovers/collectors. Until Mar 22, 11am-7pm. Free. Tokyo Wonder Site. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3463-0603. http://j.mp/ wonderseeds2015 Cute Girls in Ukiyo-e

Featuring ukiyo-e paintings of Edo women and their luxurious and colorful kimonos, hair ornaments, and accessories. Until Mar 26, 10:30am-5:30pm, closed Mon. ¥500-700. Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art. Harajuku. Tel: 03-34030880. www.ukiyoe-ota-muse. jp/index-E.html Film History in Posters Part 2: Musical Films

Showcasing the original posters of the postwar films from the collection of Makoto Wada, a famous illustrator, this exhibition will trace the descent of the musical film, which played a significant role in movie history. Until Mar 29,

11am-6:30pm, closed Mon. ¥70-210. National Film Center. Kyobashi. www.momat. go.jp/english Neo-Impressionism, from Light to Color

Introducing the trend of “Neo-Impressionism,” a movement that progressed with innovative painting linked to the 20th century, and which developed a style of brightly portraying the real world onto picture frames, based on the latest light and color theories. Until Mar 29, 9:30am-5:30pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥800-1,600. Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Ueno. Tel: 03-3823-6921. http://j.mp/ neoimpressionism2015

Fantaisie Merveilleuse

Introducing the richly imaginative, but relatively unknown, Art Deco world by focusing on 80 works shown for the first time in Japan. Until Apr 7, 10am-6pm. ¥480-960 (adv)/ ¥600-1,200 (door). Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum. Meguro. Tel: 03-3443-0201. www.teien-artmuseum.ne.jp/en Mikiko Kumazawa: Howl

Showcasing young and up-and-coming artist Kumazawa’s latest works. Until Apr 11, 11am-7pm, closed Sun, Mon & hols. Free. Mizuma Art Gallery. Ichigaya. Tel: 03-3793-7931. http:// mizuma-art.co.jp/top_e.php Love Birds

Jules Pascin

Displaying Pascin’s best-known later works such as his nude oil paintings in mother-of-pearl tones, as well as his early sketches and watercolors and experiments in printing, Fauvism and Expressionism. Until Mar 29, 10am-6pm, closed Wed. ¥500-1,000. Shiodome Museum. Shimbashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://meturl. com/pascin2015 Swiss Design

Showcasing the distinct sophistication and quality of Swiss design that sets the country apart in functionality, tradition, engineering and hands-on craftsmanship. Until Mar 29, 11am-7pm (until 8pm on Fri & Sat), closed Mon. ¥1,000-1,200. Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery. Hatsudai. http://meturl.com/ swissdesign2015 Ken Miki: Apple +

Showcasing works by graphic designer Miki known for his original designs, who has worked on projects for IBM Japan, ThinkPad and more. Until Mar 31, 11am-7pm (until 6pm on Sat), closed Sun & hols. Free. Ginza Graphic Gallery. Ginza. http://meturl.com/ ginzagraphicgallery ONGOING Masterpieces of Buddhist Sculpture from Northern Japan

Showcasing Buddhist sculptures from Michinoku famous for their powerful expressions. Until Apr 5, 9:30am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥400-1,000. Tokyo National Museum. Ueno. michinoku2015.jp Pharaohs and People in Ancient Egypt

Explore the lives and spirituality of the Ancient Egyptians through items from the Tokai University Collection. Until Apr 5, 9:30am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥150-300. Yokohama Museum of EurAsian Cultures. Nihon-Odori. Tel: 045-663-2424. http://j.mp/ pharaohs2015 Bodhisattvas: Symbols of Salvation and Support

Showcasing sculptures and paintings depicting Bodhisattvas, or deities who, despite having attained enlightenment for themselves, willingly descend into the human realm, where they face the joys and sorrows of human life and extend a hand in salvation. Until Apr 6, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥700-900 (adv)/ ¥800-1,000 (door). Nezu Museum. Omotesando. Tel: 03-34002536. www.nezu-muse. or.jp/en

An exhibition of artwork by Jad Fair, an artist and musician, featuring his new paper-cuttings with a motif of birds. Until Apr 26, 1-7pm, closed Mon & Tue. Free. Hiromart Gallery. Edogawabashi. Tel: 03-6233-9836. http://j.mp/ lovebirds2015 Pictorialism: Prelude to Modern Photography

An exhibition focusing on one of the most important movements in the historical development of modern photography. Until Apr 30, 10am-7pm. Free. Fujifilm Square. Roppongi. Tel: 03-6271-3350. http://j.mp/ pictorialism2015 Great Fake Exposition: Cultural history of fakes and imitation

Showcasing fake and imitation articles and the relationship between them and their genuine counterparts. Until May 6, 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Mon. ¥450-830. National Museum of Japanese History. Keisei-Sakura. http://j.mp/ greatfakeexposition2015 Gabriel Orozco: Inner Cycles

Mexican artist known for works that manipulate existing objects or rules to transform them into something else, which intervene with common scenes to invite new thoughts. Until May 10, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. www.mot-art-museum.jp/eng Best of the Best

The last exhibition before the museum closes for renovation on May 18, showcasing 160 works of modern and contemporary Western art. Until May 17, 10am-6pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥500-800. Bridgestone Museum of Art. Tokyo. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://meturl. com/bestofthebest2015 Intimate Impressionism from the National Gallery of Art, Washington

Works by Renoir, Manet, Monet, and others chosen by Ailsa Mellon, daughter of Andrew Mellon, founder of the National Art Gallery. Until May 24, 10am-6pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥1,400 (adv)/ ¥500-1,600 (door). Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum. Tokyo. Tel: 03-5405-8686. http:// mimt.jp/english Louvre Museum

With works by Vermeer, Rembrandt and others. Until Jun 1, 10am-6pm, closed Tue. ¥800-1,600. The National Art Center, Tokyo. Nogizaka. www.ntv.co.jp/louvre2015/ english

The Great Amazon

Featuring over 400 exhibits and a 4-K theatre experience where you can travel to the Amazon through a 355" large-scale screen. Until Jun 14, 9am-5pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥600-1,600. National Museum of Nature and Science. Ueno. Tel: 03-3822-0111. http://j.mp/ thegreatamazon2015 UPCOMING Fukagawa in the Snow: The Reappearance of an Utamaro Masterpiece

Showcasing works by Utamaro, one of the most highly regarded ukiyo-e practitioners, especially for his portraits of beautiful women, or bijin-ga. Apr 3-Aug 31, 9am-5pm. ¥1,800-2,800. Okada Museum of Art. Kowakidani. Tel: 0460-87-3931. www. okada-museum.com/en TDC Exhibition

Ginza Graphic Gallery’s annual exhibition showcasing the results of the Tokyo TDC Awards held by the Tokyo Type Directors Club. Apr 3-28, 11am-7pm, closed Sun & hols. Free. Ginza Graphic Gallery. Ginza. http://j.mp/type2015

Hills. Toranomon. Tel: 03-6406-6665. http:// toranomonhills.com/en

Yakult Swallows vs. Nippon-Ham Fighters

Utrillo & Valadon

Showcasing pieces by Utrillo, a French painter who specialized in cityscapes; and his mother Valadon, an artist whose drawings and paintings mostly included female nudes, female portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. Apr 18-Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥650-1,000 (adv)/ ¥800-1,200 (door). Sompo Japan Museum of Art. Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5405-8686. www. sjnk-museum.org/en Tokyo Story 2015

Showcasing works by artists who participated in Tokyo Wonder Site’s Creator in Residence program. Apr 18-Jul 26, 11am-7pm. Free. Tokyo Wonder Site Hongo. Tel: 03-5689-5331. http://j.mp/ tokyostory2015

Sports

The Beauty of Asian Art

Showcasing prehistoric and ancient masterpieces from China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Apr 11-Jun 14, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥700-1,000. Idemitsu Museum of Arts. Tokyo. www.idemitsu.com/museum/ honkan The Ceramic Works of Rouault and the Fauvists

Introducing ceramic works created by some of the great French artists of the early 20th century, including Georges Rouault and Henri Matisse. Apr 11-Jun 21, 10am-6pm, closed Wed. ¥500-1,000. Shiodome Museum. Shimbashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://meturl. com/panasonicmuseum Happy at Hundred

Featuring works by German photographer Karsten Thormaehlen, of 100-year-old men and women. Apr 16-18, 10am-5pm. Free. Toranomon

Yomiuri Giants vs Lotte Marines

Mar 22, 2pm. ¥300-3,500. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www. giants.jp/en Yomiuri Giants vs. DeNA Baystars

Mar 27, 6pm; Mar 28-29, 2pm. ¥300-5,000. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en Yakult Swallows vs. Hanshin Tigers

Mar 31-Apr 2, 6pm. ¥300-2,100. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp Yomiuri Giants vs. Hanshin Tigers

APR 4-5

Apr 3-4, 6pm; Apr 5, 2pm. ¥300-5,000. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en Yakult Swallows vs. Chunichi Dragons

Kataoka Tamako

Japanese-style painter who uses vivid colors, boldly deformed shapes, and paintings using powerful brushwork. Apr 7-May 17, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥300-1,200 (adv)/ ¥400-1,400 (door). The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Takebashi. Tel: 03-57778600. http://tamako2015. exhn.jp

Mar 22, 1pm. ¥300-2,100. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp

Tokyo Sevens 2015 HSBC Sevens World Series

Apr 7-9, 6pm. ¥500-4,000. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp

Round 7. Apr 4, 10am, Apr 5, 9:25am. ¥3,000 (1-day ticket). Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34013551. www.tokyo7s.jp

Yomiuri Giants vs. Yakult Swallows

BASEBALL

Yakult Swallows vs. DeNA Baystars

Yakult Swallows vs. Lotte Marines

Apr 17-19, 6pm. ¥300-4,600. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp

Mar 20-21, 1pm. ¥300-2,100. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp

Apr 10, 6pm; Apr 11-12, 2pm. ¥300-5,000. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en

MMA

Yomiuri Giants vs. Nippon-Ham Fighters

Steel! Championship Tournament

Mar 20, 6pm; Mar 21, 1:30pm. ¥300-5,000. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www. tokyo-dome.co.jp

Armored knights and samurai battle with axes and swords. Mar 28, 5:30-8pm. ¥4,0005,000. Star Rise Tower: Tokyo Tower Media Center. Akabanebashi. http:// armoredbattle.peatix.com

Tomodachi Charity Baseball Game

Charity event in support of children in the Tohoku region, with retired New York Yankees greats Derek Jeter and Hideki Matsui. Mar 21, 5pm. ¥2,000-5,000. Tokyo Dome. Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. http://support-our-kids.org/ 2with55

Festivals TRADITIONAL Shirasagi-no Mai

Traditional ceremonial parade and dance. Apr 12. Sensoji. Asakusa. Tel: 03-3842-0181. http://meturl.com/sensojijimai

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APR 12

Archers demonstrate their skills on horseback. Apr 18, 1pm. Sumida Park. Asakusa. http://j. mp/yabusame2015 INTERNATIONAL

Comedy New Material Night

Standup, improv, and trying out new stuff. Apr 7, 8-10pm. Free. Double Tall Cafe. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5467-4567. http://tokyocomedy.com/ new_material_night Standup Comedy at The Hobgoblin

Standup comedians with a variety of styles performing in English. Apr 16, 9-10:30pm. Free. Hobgoblin Shibuya. Shibuya. http://tokyocomedy. com/standup_comedy_at_the_ hobgoblin

Community Half-Fast Cyclists

Bicyclists of all treads meet for slideshows, lectures, ride-planning, etc. Every second Wed, 7pm. Free. The Pink Cow. Roppongi. Tel: 03-6434-5773. www.thepinkcow.com

JAPANESE CULTURE WORKSHOP KOKEDAMA LESSON

Enjoy making traditional Japanese moss balls and learn how to grow them. Lessons available in Japanese, English, or Italian. Casual environment. ¥6,500. Apr 12, 11:15am and 2pm. 291 2F Glassarea Aoyama. Omotesando. http:// ondtable.com/workshops

Other Events Poetry Slam & Live Jazz

Fundraiser with 20 local performance poets and live jazz. Mar 21, 6-10pm. ¥2,000 w/1d. World Peace Theater. Kawasaki. http://ytg.jp

Visa and immigration Intellectual property rights (Patent, trademark, copyrights)

Chiyoda Sakura Festival

Enjoy cherry blossoms on foot or by boat. Mar 29-Apr 5, all day. Free. Chidorigafuchi Moat Greenery Path. Kudanshita or Hanzomon. http://j.mp/ chiyodasakura2015 Midtown Blossom 2015

Celebrate Spring in Tokyo Midtown with Martini Blossom Lounge (12-8pm) and enjoy the lighting up of the Sakura trees (5-11pm). Mar 20-Apr 19, 12-11pm. Various prices. Tokyo Midtown. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3475-3100. www. tokyo-midtown.com/en

Take in the best of Japanese contemporary art and enjoy new works from contemporary Asian galleries. Mar 20, 11am-9pm; Mar 21, 11am-8pm; Mar 22, 10:30am-5pm. ¥1,500-3,000 (adv)/ ¥2,000-3,500 (door). Tokyo International Forum Exhibition Hall. Yurakucho. http://artfairtokyo.com/en

Pet Expo

Burlesque models pose for artstars and sketching newbies alike with arty socializing. Every third Wed, 7-10pm. ¥2,000 w/ 1d. Studio and Space IVVA. Meiji-Jingūmae or Harajuku. www.facebook. com/Dr.Sketchy.Tokyo

Held once a year, Suntory Hall’s Open House provides a day filled with concerts and fun events, such as the opportunity to experience conducting and more! Apr 4, 11am-5pm. Free. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/ suntoryopenhouse2015

An event for pet lovers and pets with activities, such as a sports day event for dogs and a cat show. May 3-5, 10am-5pm. ¥600-1,000 (adv)/ ¥800-1,300 (door). Makuhari Messe. Kaihin-Makuhari. www. pethaku.com

Learning

Rikugien Garden Illumination

Learn about Champagne and sake, and enjoy a French-style dinner. Apr 4, 7-10:30pm. ¥14,980 +tax (adv). Stellato. Shirokanedai. Tel: 03-34425588. http://meturl.com/ monthlywine

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Enjoy the illumination of the impressive shidarezakura, or weeping sakura tree. Mar 19-Apr 5, from sunset until 9pm. ¥150 (seniors)/¥300 (general)/ children free. Rikugien Gardens. Komagome. Tel: 03-3941-2222. http://meturl. com/rikugarden

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Learn about Japan’s fast moving PET, packaging, polyester, recycling market, and innovative technologies. Apr 20-21, all day. ¥1,595. Hilton Tokyo. Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3344-5111. http://j.mp/ jpet2015

Suntory Hall Open House

Champagne & Sake Seminar

Other Legal & Business matters Hiroshi Oogai,

JPET

Highlighting the many nationalities and cultures that make Tokyo a vibrant community. Enjoy international food, music and dance performances, carnival games, shopping bazaar, raffle, and more. Apr 25, 10am-4pm. Free entry. International School of the Sacred Heart Campus. Hiroo. www.issh.ac.jp

Grand Prince Hotel Akasaka

Establishing a Company & Branch office

Art Fair Tokyo

ISSH 36th Annual Family Festival

Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School

We can support you with:

Over 1,000 cherry blossom trees, with nighttime illumination. Mar 29-Apr 7, all day. Free. Sumida Park. Asakusa. http://j.mp/ sumidacherryfestival2015

OnJapan Cafe’s first themed event, featuring a special menu using ingredients from Tohoku and workshops that allow you to sample delicious regional dishes and sake from the region. Until Mar 28, various times. Various prices. OnJapan Cafe. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-6434-1228. http://cafe. onjapan.tokyo

Meet fellow knitters, crocheters and sewers to talk, share ideas, eat, drink and create. Every first and third Tue, 7pm. Free. Cafe Respekt. Shibuya. www.meetup.com/ TokyoStitchandBitch

Reasonable prices. Free first time consultation

Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival

Tohoku Spring

Stitch-n-Bitch

J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE

Various special events including a nighttime lantern illumination. Mar 29-Apr 7, all day. Free. Ueno Park. Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-5644. http://j.mp/ uenosakuramatsuri2015

Greenroom Festival ’15

Art and music festival with a focus on ocean and beach preservation with artists The Wailers, Lotus, Mama’s Gun, The Growlers, and more. May 23-24. ¥9,800 (one day)/ ¥17,000 (2 days). Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Minatomirai. Tel: 045-211-1515. http://greenroom. jp/english

Ueno Sakura Matsuri

For information: Tel: (03) 3345-7977 FAX: (03) 3345-5377

http://www.wada-lats.com/ E-mail: info@wada-lats.com 3-5-3-1402 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023

WE BUY AND SELL METALS & JEWELRY!

・Valuable used Canadian Gold Maple Leaf and Viennese Gold (1 toz ~ 1/10 toz) in stock! ・Refurbished platinum and other metals, New jewelry and craft jewelry also available. ・Free value appraisal.

2/6 Valu

1 toz: ¥1

Referenc

68,000－

e price of

items: ¥

new

175,084

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Metropolis readers receive a free gift with purchases of ¥20,000 or more

MORE LISTINGS ONLINE → HTTP:// METURL.COM/ LISTINGS

Loja de Ouro 金のみせ

Ishikawacho station 0120-5610-68 10:00-18:30 / Closed Sundays and Mondays

Kinnomise http://kinnomise-chugai.jp/

Metropolis and its Classifieds section are printed every other week. The upcoming publication dates and corresponding deadlines for print are as follows. This does not affect the online Classifieds, where ads are visible immediately after they are approved.

FRI, APR 3 ISSUE Deadline: Mar 26, 3pm FRI, APR 17 ISSUE Deadline: Apr 9, 3pm

1 AT YOUR SERVICE 1.1 HEALTH I N N E R BALANCE. Tr a d i t i o n a l oriental treatment of acupuncture and moxibustion. Also body massage and reflexology. Mobile ser vice to your home or office. Email Takahito at innerbalance123@gmail.com or see http://tmasuda.wix. com/inner-balance.

ENGLISH -SPE AKING ADACERTIFIED DENTAL CLINIC in Toranomon Hills offers a wide range of preventive, co rre c t i ve an d cos m e t ic dentistry. Superior service focused on customer satisfaction and convenience. Open until 10pm. Modern dentistry at its best. www. rmdcc.com/english/ 0120-648-071

C O M P R E H E N S I V E H E A LT H C OV E R AG E F O R E X PAT S , D I P LO M AT S , TE AC H E R S . Inpatient and outpatient care, emergencies, surgery, meds, checkups, dental, lab tests, MRI and more. Thirtyday money-back guarantee. Quick, easy application; convenient payment options. Enroll today! info@earthhealthcare.jp w w w.ear thhealthcare.jp 078-351-7300

CURLY HAIR SPECIALIST IN TOK YO. English-speaking Kiyoko, highly experienced in NY’s curly hair salons, takes care of curly hair at her salon, Nepenji, in Ebisu. Reser vations: 03 -3793 2357 or info@nepenji.net http://english.nepenji.net/ index_en.html

MEN’S BARBERSHOP IN ROPPONGI WELCOMES FOREIGNERS. Englishspeaking assistant will get your haircut right. Haircuts ¥ 4 8 0 0. W i t h s h a ve ¥ 5 8 0 0. Kids’ haircuts ¥4000¥ 4 4 0 0. Fir s t-t ime discount ¥1 0 0 0. h t t p: //o a zo. b i z / t o p 0 3 - 5 5 4 5 -7 7 9 7 o a z o7 7 9 7@ yahoo.co.jp

1.3 MOVING

MOVING OVERSEAS? Call ECONOSHIP! With over 35 years of experience, you can count on Econoship for courteous, efficient, reliable service and reasonable prices. Call, email, or see our new website. Ask how you can receive 10 boxes free of charge.0120 -222-111 info@econoship.net www.econoship.net

1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY (physical therapy) c a r e i n H i r o o . Native English-speaking therapists specializing in sports injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, back /neck pain, running related, headaches, orthotics, ergonomic consultations and women’s health. www.tokyophysio.com 03-3443-6769

T H I N K I N G A B O U T ADVERTISING WITH METROPOLIS? Platinum ¥32,400. Gold ¥27,000. Silver

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000

¥21,600. Prices include one photo. Bronze ¥2000 (photo + ¥2000). Prices are for 4 0 words, one print issue, t wo weeks online. For details, email us at commercial@ metropolisjapan.com.

1.2 HAIR & BEAUTY

I M M I G R AT I O N S E R V I C E S I N E N G LI S H . Yo ko y a m a Administrative and Legal Of fice will suppor t all your visa needs: extension, s t a t u s c h a n g e, p e r m a n e n t r e s i d e n c e, n a t u r a l i z a t i o n . Free consultation in Kinshicho available by reservation. Contact us at 03-5626-4139 or yokoyamaoffice@r8.ucom.ne.jp. http://meturl.com/yokoyama

L AW OFFICE IN K AWA SAKI (next to Tokyo), member of the Yokohama Bar A ssociation. Legal ser vice in English for traffic accidents, divorce, inheritance, bankruptcy, b u s i n e s s ca s e s (co n t r a c t s , establishing a company, trademarks, etc.) and other legal problems.Email: web@ smkw.biz www.sumikawa.net VISA COUNSELING: female immigration lawyer handles your visa case. Permanent residency, naturalization, eligibility (inviting your spouse/ children/workers from your country), extension/ change of visa status. Consultation ¥5000. OFFICE LIFE (Miho Fujibayashi). Tel: 090 - 8330 - 0670 Email: mailto@officelife.jp Website: http://officelife.jp/en CRE ATIVE SO LUTION S . Specialists in branding, web design, photo/video production. Drawing A Crowd: a new approach in design. Get in touch. info@drawingacrowd.co TO ADVERTISE IN METROPOLIS, log on at w w w.metropolis. co.jp/classif ieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@ metropolisjapan.com.

2 FIND A PLACE 2.1 GUESTHOUSE

I M M I G R AT I O N L A W Y E R AT N I PPA S H I O FFI CE s u p p o r t s visa and naturalization applications, company establishment and b r a n c h o f f i ce i n s t a l l a t i o n , including commercial registration, as well as inheritance procedures in Japan. Free consultation available in English, Español and Japanese. Tel: 03-6264-8446 np@nippashi.com http://nippashi.com

K ANAMACHI GUEST HOUSE. Brand - new furnished share rooms, separate male and female floors, all rooms w/ digital locks, aircon, fridge, 1 min wal k from Kan am achi Stn, Chiyoda Line ¥40,000/m. room@airay- apar tment .net 03 - 5 8 76 - 4 575 w w w.a i r a y apartment.net

ICHII CORPORATION. Over 600 affordable, qualityfurnished apartments in central Tokyo locations. No key money/guarantor/agent fee required. New, clean apartments, simple contract system, full English support. Call us today! 03-5437-5233 www.japt.co.jp

S E R V I C E D A PA R T M E N T S i n a quiet residential area of Hiroo. Studios and suites. 4min from Hiroo Stn. Rates: Daily ¥7800. Weekly ¥6850-/ d a y . M o n t h l y ¥ 570 0 - /d a y . O ver t hre e mont hs ¥ 513 0 - / day. Tax, utilities included. frontdesk@azabucourt. co m w w w. a z a b u co u r t .co m 0 3 - 3 4 4 6 - 8 6 1 0

English and Japanese. I'm a JF, 39, seeking a language exchange partner. I'd prefer a female from the US. I will teach you J in return. Also, it would be nice if we could be friends, too! dakkun2007@ yahoo.co.jp English and Japanese. American Ivy Leaguer, loves Japan, the arts, museums, Japanese culture, seeking Japanese for language/cultural exchange. Currently in NYC—in Tokyo soon. Prefer over 30, similar interests. Especially welcome if you plan to visit NYC. rosigma21@ yahoo.com German and Japanese. JF seeks Ger/J language exchange partner. Seit Sechs Monaten lerne ich Deutsch aber ich spreche Englisch. F/M ok. If interested, drop me a line. gardenstate2005@ hotmail.com 日本語と英語。僕はイギリス人. 毎日日本語を勉強してる. でも言語交換にいつも失敗しちゃう.

juicysummer@gmail.com

3.6 LEARNING: GENERAL

IKEBANA (JAPANESE TRADITIONAL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT) is a powerful means of self-expression. Trial les son, inclu din g all materials ¥4000. No Japanese necessary. C e r t i f i ca t i o n , d i p l o m a ca n be earned. Three classroom locations in Tokyo. Website: w w w.atelier-soka.com/ english/index.html Email: smile@mika-otani.com

Sofa, large, clean, in very good condition, w/two feather-filled back cushions ¥39,000. Pick up only Minato-ku. mmcaproni2010@yahoo.co.jp

4.2 APPLIANCES Air purifier, Venta LW, size 24, Germanmade ¥12,000. Sanyo futon dryer ( 布団乾燥機 ), still in box ¥3000. Fujitsu AH-56D humidifier ¥3000. Toshiba trouser press, stand-up, as new ¥3000. Pick up Shinjuku. likeme4u@hotmail.com Washer/dryer, Panasonic NA-VX30001R, in excellent condition, economic, quiet. Near Oji Stn. oxbow@i.softbank.jp http:// youtu.be/huHW4g5c_0I 09060208213

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Sharp LC-20D10 TV, 20" ¥5000. Daikin TCK55M-W air cleaner ¥10,000. Hitachi R-12RA fridge ¥5000. Toshiba AW-50GM washer ¥10,000. Buy together for discount. ronzakaria@ hotmail.com 090-5308-9870 Sayonara sale! Sharp Aquos TV, 45", w/stand ¥10,000. Yamaha CLP-535 piano, one y/o ¥60,000. Framed wall picture ¥5000. Hitachi aircon ¥5000. Two Fujitsu aircon ¥5000/each. Hitachi fridge ¥5000. davidgolding@hotmail. com 09098246207 Sayonara sale! Washer/dryer; fridge/ freezer; double-top glass dining table, w/four chairs ¥6000/each. ¥15,000/all. And more. Pick up Mar 23-27. fph10@ gol.com Sayonara sale! Dainichi FW-322S kerosene heater; Ikea Ektorp sofa, Kullen chest of drawers, Bjurst table; balcony table and chairs; WMK90 kitchen cabinet; bedroom light; Christmas tree and lights; Sanyo home phone; barbecue; humidifier; Tefal kettle; clock; tools, etc. qqcb6agd@ beach.ocn.ne.jp 09065403103

4.5 AUDIO & MP3 Stereo, old (31x90x46), radio and cassette only ¥1000. Pick up near Yokohama Stn or arrange delivery yourself. fridge_washmachine@yahoo. co.jp

4.6 FOR KIDS 3.9 TEACH ME! APARTMENTS AVAILABLE near train stations in Takanawa, M i t a , M o r i s h i t a . Re n t f r o m ¥ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 /m - ¥ 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 /m . No key money, no guarantor required. Single house in Kiba, w/garage ¥140,000/m. Please email info@cardiganltd.com. YOKOHAMA APARTMENT—ONE MONTH FREE RENT! One-room apartment, w/loft, small kitchen, b a t h r o o m , a l o n g t h e S o te t s u Line, easy access to Yokohama, Totsuka, Futamatagawa, Shonandai ¥45,000/m. Private rental. No agent fees. robhoey.c17@gmail.com

3 EDUCATION 3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR J A P A N E S E I N A F R I E N D LY ENVIRONMENT? Seeking a friendly JF tutor with a good understanding of English? I teach all levels in Tokyo. Tuition is ¥3000/h. If interested, please feel free to contact me. tati_m317@yahoo.com

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE CREA-UN UENO. Furnished private rooms, w/digital locks, near Asakusa, Ueno, Skytree. Safe area, femaleonly, roof top garden w/ nice view, BBQ space, free bicycle. From ¥56,000/m. Utilities included. No key money/guarantor. crea-un. sakura@ko-bo.com http:// w w w. s a k u r a - k o - b o . c o m 03-6912-0692

English and Japanese. My friends and I are seeking language and cultural exchange partners. I'd love to practice Japanese conversation with you. By the way, I'm a certified Japanese teacher. Every Tue evening, I'd like to practice in Asakusa. jpteaching@gmail.com

English and Japanese. Open-minded Japanese female, 23-40, sought for language exchange and socializing. Serious only. Call Bobby at 0905589-6864 or 080-8118-4073 or email mybaby-precious@docomo.ne.jp. English and Japanese. Can you help me practice speaking E? I am willing to help you learn J in return. I have free time weekday mornings and afternoons. Let's meet up in the Shonan area for coffee. chocolate88888emi@gmail.com

T R A N S L AT I O N F O R E N G LI S H LESSONS. Working towards becoming an English-to-Japanese translator, but need help polishing my English. Can translate simple documents in exchange for English lessons. michiane256@gmail.com Spanish teacher wanted. Como esta? Seeking a patient conversational Spanish instructor. Around the Shinjuku area preferred. I'm a beginner. likeme4u@ hotmail.com 日本料理の作り方を教えて下さい。その代わりに、英語を教えます。 meru.asap@gmail.com

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Bed, single (99x197x46; headboard H70cm), wooden, w/mattress ¥5000. Pick up near Yokohama Stn or arrange delivery yourself. fridge_washmachine@ yahoo.co.jp Cabinet, teak, large, for TVs, in very good condition ¥29,000. Firm. Standing light, Yamada, heavy, not Ikea ¥6000. Minato-ku. mmcaproni2010@yahoo. co.jp Cabinet, kitchen ¥8000. Wall clocks, two available ¥5000/each. Pick up near Yokohama Stn or arrange delivery yourself. fridge_washmachine@yahoo. co.jp Desk, Nitori, dark brown, gray metal frame (50x90xH75cm), w/accessories (portable small document wagon and overhead attachment shelf) ¥3000. leszek@rybicki.cc Rug, Ikea (80x150cm), almost new ¥1000. Delivery possible depending on location. broadmind@gmail.com http:// goo.gl/eYFyuc

Various items. Katoji bed and mattress, w/mattress cover, side cushion; fourway toy; Aprica diaper disposal unit; three-pack of disposal unit refills; potty training potty; highchair. rkrajan12@ gmail.com 09084937082

4.7 FOR FREE Fridge, Toshiba (H5'), w/built-in freezer, works well. nihon4eva@gmail.com 090-8842-2894

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS 5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT Golf bag, tote, Le Coq Sportif Golf, w/ shoe pocket, as new ¥2000. Pick up Shinjuku-ku. likeme4u@hotmail.com

5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT Pedals, guitar: Boss BD-2 Blues Driver ¥5000. MXR distortion+ ¥4000. ¥8000/ both. Pick up around Yokohama or Tokyo. el.complexus _de_cor@yahoo.com 07014190914 Ukulele, Pono Baritone, handmade in Hawaii, solid cedar top, cutaway design, electric pickup, solid rosewood sides, back, abalone rosette, ebony tuner heads, sealed Grover tuners, maple binding, w/case ¥50,000. anreimann@ yahoo.com

5.4 BOOKS/CD/DVD Italian movies, 50 available, w/ Japanese subtitles ¥20,000/all. Not for sale individually. tocco_di_classe@ hotmail.com

5.6 COLLECTORS Dunhill lighter, gold-plated, late '60s, made in Switzerland, not US, in full working order ¥10,000. mcmctokyo13@ gmail.com

The majority of classified ads have moved online! classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Ichiro Suzuki stamps. Commemorative stamps of the Seattle Mariners celebrating nine consecutive seasons of 200 hits, exclusively released in Japan, cannot be bought anywhere ¥10,000. Photos available. likeme4u@hotmail.com

6 VEHICLES 6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Daihatsu Mira Avy, '05, shaken until May, very clean, w/Kenwood CD player, speakers ¥40,000. cameronhardy1982@ hotmail.com 09049147686

12 SOCIAL SCENE 12.1 LET’S PARTY THE JAPAN HELPLINE, 24 hours a d ay, f ro m a ny w h e re, a b o u t anything. From emergency assistance to simple questions. Visit www.jhelp.com/ and press “help,” or call 0570-000-911. To volunteer or support, please contact team@ jhelp.com. www.jhelp.com

7 GENERAL 7.3 MISCELLANEOUS Paul McCartney on Apr 27 at Tokyo Dome, two tickets available (2nd floor, 3rd base, gate 41, passage 8, column 19, #71 and #72). New ¥38,148. Sell ¥35,000/both. Cash only. Not available individually. Omiya, Saitama. tezukuri@ ymail.com

7.4 ITEMS WANTED Benz C class wagon, '09-'10 model, black or white, no dealers or auction guys. alinjap@yahoo.com

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE Laptop, Toshiba Dynabook, Pentium 4 2.0 GHz, 1GB RAM, 80GB HD ¥5000. Pick up near Hirai Stn, Sobu Line, or HigashiAzuma Stn, Kameido Line. broadmind@ gmail.com

10 HELP! 10.1 HELP ME FR E E E N G LI S H -TO -JA PA N E S E TRANSLATION. Working towards becoming a translator and need practice with simple documents. Have experience working in law office, accounting, HR and sales. michiane256@gmail.com Free headshots/porfolio photos. I need practice to up my skill-level. We can meet in Shibuya on Sat afternoon for outdoor shots. Photos for CV, LinkedIn, Facebook, LINE, etc. Thanks to those who helped me out last time! rodayos75@gmail.com

Help decorate my camper van. Seeking someone with artistic flair and imagination to help me cheaply make the interior of my kei camper van really fun and homely (nice f looring, cur tains, covers, etc.). Al so need woodwork help for the bed. tokyophoto1@gmail.com Professional oil massage wanted. Seeking a professional or student masseur. Can pay ¥7000/90min or exchange English or Italian. Serious only. No shiatsu—only aroma oil massage. Thanks. alinjap@yahoo.com

10.2 SUPPORT

N E E D T O TA L K ? W e ’ r e h e r e to listen. TELL LIFELINE: free, anonymous English counseling daily from 9am-11pm by trained v o l u n t e e r s ( 0 3 - 5 7 74 - 0 9 9 2 ) . TELL COUNSELING: affordable multilingual psychotherapy by accredited Western-trained professionals, a CIGNA International Provider (03 - 4550 -1146). TELL website: www.telljp.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @ TokyoLifeLine.

WEST PAPUA: ONE SOUL, ONE PEOPLE . Fif t y- one years ago, West Papua should have been an independent country. Since 1969, West Papua has been invaded and the people robbed of their rights, culture and country. Help support West Papuans’ desire to be free. http://tapol.gn.apc.org/ markhelp2@gmail.com ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS TOK YO. If you have a problem with drinking, we can help. English-speaking meetings daily. 03-3971-1471 inquiries@aatokyo. org http://aatokyo.org HI V Peer Suppor t group a n d workshops. Get together with people in the same boat as you, who understand. Held in a safe, considerate, 100% confidential setting to discuss what’s on your mind, ask questions and make new friends. info@peersupporttokyo. com www.peersupporttokyo.com Infertility support group. TTC Tokyo is an infertility support group that provides informal opportunities for women and men experiencing infertility to connect with one another. Please visit website for more info. admin@ttctokyo. org www.ttctokyo.org To advertise in Metropolis, Japan’s No.1 English magazine, log on at www. metropolis.co.jp/classifieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@ metropolisjapan.com.

10.3 LOST FRIENDS Seeking Mindy. Is Mindy Mack, a petite blonde teaching assistant from L.A., still in Tokyo? Any info appreciated. m106 8 19 151 -t sky@ yahoo.com Seeking photographer Max. Seeking Max (originally from Kyushu), a photographer who lived in Tokyo House (Otsuka) in the mid-’90s. His girlfriend’s name was Rei. Anyone know their whereabouts? Please let me know. Thank you. om_services@ laposte.net

11 MESSAGES 11.1 PERSONAL MESSAGES SUBSCRIBE TO METROPOLIS AND NEVER MISS AN ISSUE. One year (24 issues) ¥3600 (c o r p o r a t e s u b s c r i b e r s , 7-100 copies ok ¥22,560). Half year (12 issues) ¥1800 (c o r p o r a t e s u b s c r i b e r s , 7-100 copies ok ¥12,000). Bank transfer or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club). D etail s at ht t p: // metropolisjapan.com/ subscription.

WRITE A MESSAGE FOR YOU R S PEC I A L SO M EO N E ! Write any thing, from bir thday messages to proposals. http:// classifieds.metropolis.co.jp.

J A PA N I N T E R N AT I O N A L PARTY - SPRING SPECIAL. Sat, Mar 28, 6:30-9pm, Bar Quest (Roppongi). Japan’s biggest internat ional par t y. 250 people expected. All-youcan-drink and free snacks. Japanese men: ¥ 4000. Others: ¥3000. Mobile: http:// getyourfriend.com/mobile/ jiparty@hotmail.com http:// w w w.get your frien d.com / 090-1735-5405

J O I N TH E B I G G E S T, B E S T, M O S T P O P U L A R I N T E R N AT I O N A L PA R T Y ! Great people, drinks and food! Meet new friends and party with nice people in a friendly atmosphere. E ve n t s i n To k yo (G i nz a , Azabu, Roppongi) and Osaka. ¥1500- ¥2000. http://english.gaitomo.com/ info@gaitomo.com

I NTE RN ATI O N A L PA RT Y A T L E A F C U P. C o m e j o i n us and have fun. Men: ¥3000. Foreigners/women: ¥ 2 0 0 0. A l l - y o u - ca n - d r i n kand-eat. Iidabashi and Yokohama: Mar 21 and Apr 4. Shibuya: Mar 28 and Apr 11. www.leafparty.com

PARTY LIKE RABBITS! Have a blast at TokyoLocos’ Easter Bunny Party. Original cocktails, gift giveaway, photo station. Free after-party entry to Club Ivy. Fri, Apr 3, 8-11pm, Ginza R o o t s To k y o . G e n t l e m e n : ¥4000. Ladies: ¥3000. Bunny a t t i r e e n c o u r a g e d ! h t t p : // meturl.com/easterbunnyparty info@tokyolocos.com

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS

JOBS CHAT HOSTS AND TEACHERS WANTED BY LEAFCUP in Tok yo, Iidabashi, S h i b u y a , Yo k o h a m a . S e e k i n g enthusiastic, prof icient English, French, Spanish and/or German speakers who can teach and lead lively conversations. ¥1000-¥1500/h. A p p l y o n l i n e : h r @ l e a f c u p .co m www.leafcup.com/job.php

J A P A N T R A V E L I N T E R N S H I P. J a p a nTr a v e l . c o m i s s e e k i n g E/J bilingual interns to join the largest tourism website in Japan. Multiple opportunities in content, sales/marketing and web/design. Work in an exciting, global environment in Roppongi. Transportation and business expenses provided. No salary, minimum three months, chance for full-time position. Please send your resume (E/J) to info@japantravel.com. ART MODEL NEEDED. Nude model required for sophisticated art project. Willing to offer attractive modeling fee. Privacy is 100% respected. Serious only. Mail: strikeapose@nifty. com WANT TO HELP CREATE METROPOLIS? We’re seeking social media, web, and editorial interns. Great opportunity to gain experience in a multimedia company ! To appl y, send intro let ter, CV and relevant clips to editor@metropolisjapan.com. SALES INTERN. Metropolis is seeking a bilingual (E/J) intern to join the most successful English-language advertising team (Restaurants & Bars) in Japan. Great opportunity to learn in an exciting environment. No pay, but transportation provided. Please email knakashima@metropolis.co.jp.

To advertise: commercial@metropolisjapan.com

03-4588-2277

TOKYO’S PREMIER HEALTH AND FITNESS CLUB, CLUB 360, is now hiring full-time and part-time E/J bilingual front desk staff. An interest in fitness, a n d a d m i n i s t r a t i ve ex p e r i e n ce is a plus. Positions immediately available. Please send resume to nathan@club360.jp. www.club360.jp 03-6434-9667

SKY HIGH, a raw, 100% vegetarian juice bar opening soon in Hiroo, is seeking E/J bilingual bartender, kitchen staff and bike messenger. Basic cafe, bar operation knowledge a plus. Will train immediately. Work hours are flexible. To join our team, please send resume to info@skyhigh-tokyo.jp. Aoyama branch is also seeking staff. www. skyhigh-tokyo.jp WINE SALESPERSON sought to call on hotels, restaurants and bars to offer our high-quality wines at incredible prices. Candidates should be confident, J/E bilingual, passionate about wine, love fine dining and travel, have experience in sales, wine or both. Full-time (Mon-Fri, 10:30am-7:30pm). Position available immediately. Please send cover letter and resume to winejob@metropolisjapan.com. メトロポリスはバイリンガル（日英）の営業スタッフを募集しています。是非、私達の広告マーケティングチームに加わりませんか！応募条件：責任感をもって勤勉に取り組める方、協調性があり、意欲を持って主体的に働ける方を募集しています。営業経験のある方は歓迎します。フルタイム (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-6:30pm) で働ける方に限ります。jobs@metropolisjapan.com

13.1 SPORTS

AMERICAN FOOTBALL. N ihon Unis ys Bulls , X league Central Division, seeks fit players w/ US college football experience for all positions. Practice every Sat/Sun from 10am-3pm (including meeting) in Tokyo/Saitama (time and venue subject to change). Attendance at practice must be over 60%. Please contact for tryout info and send your profile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail.com http://www.unisys.co.jp/football

A L L - N AT I O N A L I T Y TO U C H FOOTBALL. Non-contact tag rugby (OZ tag) and Rugby League players. We play ever y Sat from 1 0am in Tatsumi. M/F and beginners welcome! Good exercise and fun! Many other activities, such as BBQs and drinking parties! Email for details. tokyorugbyleague@ hotmail.com ht tp: //ameblo.jp/ tokyo13warriors A M AT E U R R U G B Y L E A G U E PLAYERS. Japan ANZACS Rugby League team is seeking Rugby Le a g u e p l aye r s f o r J a p a n e s e Ru gby Le a gu e of f icial g ames from Apr to Sep. Everyone welcome. Contact for more details. japananzacs@gmail.com

FUN WITH TOUCH RUGBY! Join us for social or competitive touch rugby ever y Sat at 2:30pm by Ariake Stn, Yurikamome Line. Any age, sex, level ok. Please email for details. funwithtouch@gmail. c o m w w w. f u n w i t h t o u c h .c o m / where-we-play P L AY R U G B Y. T h e To k y o Crusaders are a friendly but keen international rugby club. D evo te d to t h e g a m e a n d i t s social side, the “Cru” welcomes all players and supporters. Established in 1990, the Cru plays in the Shuto League 1st Division. http://www.facebook.com/tokyo. crusaders www.tokyocrusaders. com

TA M B O U R E L L I . U n i q u e n e w s p o r t f ro m S cot lan d . Usin g a tambourine-like instrument as a racquet, players hit a shuttlecock. We play two or three times/month on weekends in Meguro with many socials. Join us! More details: www. tamjapan.org/en/ info@tamjapan. org All-level tennis group in Tokyo. Serious and motivated tennis players sought by active tennis group to join their weekly sessions in central Tokyo. We have advanced and intermediate groups on weekday evenings. Beginner and low-intermediate also welcome. No entrance or membership fees. Reasonable participation fees. tokyo. tennis@yahoo.fr

Many more classified ads online! Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Badminton club in Tokyo. Small international group seeks players from abroad. If you know basic footwork, strokes and play seriously, you could definitely enjoy playing with us. mune2006@hotmail.co.jp www. geocities.jp/mune_albat/page4.html Football /soccer players. Tokyo Redstar, Setagaya League 1, is seeking soccer players. Practice almost every Sat/Sun in Tokyo. Players in a spirit of fair play welcome. saito987@hotmail.com http://tokyoredstar.com Futsal in Tokorozawa. Sun night futsal? Mostly 30-45 year olds, every Sun evening, non-league, but mildly competitive. Come and play for exercise and fun! Any age and nationality ok. futsalintokorozawa@gmail.com Futsal players wanted by a very friendly international team. Practice is in Tokyo and Kanagawa on Sat. Details available. fkkyn468@ybb.ne.jp Futsal team. Intermediate futsal team in Tokyo seeking people who can enjoy the game with others. Please introduce yourself (age, nationality, where you live, whether you belong to another team). umek2002jp@yahoo.co.jp Gaelic football in Japan. Japan Gaelic Athletic Association is always seeking new members, M/F ok. No experience necessary. Great way to meet new people and get fit at the same time. japangaa@gmail.com www.facebook. com/japangaa

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Jogging Yokosuka. SJM seeking friends to jog 8-20km in Yokosuka, mornings preferred, but depending on the day, other times could work, too. ジョギング仲間募集横須賀. elsalvadorjapan@ yahoo.es

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Quality football. Interested in playing football at the weekend and training midweek? Want to enjoy a few beers after a good run out? If you consider yourself a quality player, please drop us a note. bfcvagabonds@gmail.com Samurai and ninjutsu martial arts. Free training group for samurai and ninjutsu fighting arts. Vigorous, but safe and intelligent, one-on-one, or small group training depending on the day. Spiritual refinement is a key element. rootarty@gmail.com Seeking Japanese archery companions. Let’s do kyudo near Tokyo. Once/month for three hours, weekends only. See website for details. datemasamune216@yahoo.co.jp http:// jmty.jp/tokyo/com-spo/article-qa3g Table tennis in Minato-ku. Hi, our international team is seeking experienced players. You need to be living or working in Minato-ku and commit to play ten times/year on Sundays (all day). No beginners, please. fgrideau@ gmail.com Volleyball Club Intervoll. Japanese and foreign volleyball players gather in Takadanobaba to enjoy playing. Have volleyball experience and want to play volleyball in a friendly atmosphere? inter vollclub@yahoo.co.jp http:// intervoll.sakura.ne.jp/ Women’s soccer club. Five-a-side, 11-a-side, on grass fields. Two or three practices/matches on Sun. All nationalities, experience level s, beginners welcome. Happy and friendly club! We have many socials. djnorio@ hotmail.co.jp

13.2 LEISURE

WEEKEND AWAY? Inn By The Sea Kamakura, a 4min walk from Hase Stn, offers child-friendly accommodation near the D a i b u t s u , H a s e Te m p l e, Yuigahama Beach and many other Kamakura landmarks. Find us on Facebook at I n n B yTh e S e a Ka m a k u r a . innbytheseakamakura.com innbythesea@yahoo.com

MACARTHUR HEIGHTS. Ta ke a b r e a k w h e r e G e n e r a l Douglas MacArthur did! One hour from Tokyo by car or direct train. Beautiful cabins on the ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping. housinginjapan@yahoo.com Japanese home cooking. Japanese housewife offers free home cooking lessons to females at her house near Kawasaki Stn on weekdays during the day. Free, but you pay the cost of ingredients. tome.haruka-soushi@ ezweb.ne.jp

Interested in Britain? Professional British guy working near Marunouchi is seeking interesting people to hang out with after work for drinks. Any nationality ok. Prefer someone with an interest in the UK. I'm late 30s, speak some Japanese and Korean. englishmobile@outlook.com Kichijoji. British guy living in Kichijoji. I am seeking some people also living in Kichijoji to hang out, have drinks, etc. All my friends are in central and it would be cool to know someone more local. Any nationality. onzeetop@gmail.com

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN

13.4 MUSIC Japanese drummer seeking musicians. Guitar and bass player sought for rock, dance, pop, blues, jazz, etc. Melody is important. Hopefully, we can have gigs so everybody can dance! kosuke1016@ hotmail.com Vocalists wanted. Anyone want to put their vocals over some electronica tracks? Grime, rap, RnB, rock, soul, whatever you do. M/F, any language ok. Get in touch if you're interested! scw105@yahoo.co.uk We need a drummer who is able to take trips to Kansai, Kyushu or other regions of Japan with us. We play rock music and had gigs about 90 times last year. Serious only. naho@kt-sequence.com www.audioleaf.com

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT Diamond Way Buddhism Tokyo. Do you want to explore your own mind? Guided Buddhist meditation every Sun, 6pm, near Azabu-Juban. International practitioners, beginners welcome, Japanese spoken. Please call 090-35983072 for more info. daginia@gmail.com www.diamondway.jp/ Zen meditation (Zazen). You’ve always thought it would be interesting to try it—why not now? Join us Fri evenings at Tokuun-in in Ueno. Make arrangements in advance by email, and check our home page. tokyozazen@jcom.home. ne.jp www.wgthorpe.com 色ー度カフェ. ライトワーカーヒ

ーリング。任意の助けのための私に連絡してください。 winds_fr@

hotmail.com

13.6 RELIGIOUS Seeking a Baptist church? If you’re seeking a Baptist church without judgmental people, where everyone is in normal clothes, and with many English speakers, give me a call. Meet at HigashiShinjuku Stn, A2 exit, Sun at 10:30am. paytyt@gmail.com 08041554200

13.8 PROFESSIONAL Tokyo Traders Club. International club for traders and investors. Discuss opportunities in stocks, commodities and forex. Many regular events, including FX trading workshop. New to trading? No problem; beginners also welcome. You can also learn to trade. Join free! info@tokyotraders.com http://www. tokyotraders.com/ 080-5444-1321

13.9 INTERNATIONAL Intercultural activities. JII (Japan Intercultural Institute) is a non-profit, member-run organization that sponsors activities (seminars, cultural events, conferences) for those wanting to further develop intercultural competencies and meet other interculturalists. yuko. bolick@japanintercultural.org www. japanintercultural.org Nihongo 倶楽部いんたぁなしょなる. Nihongo Club International is a volunteer group to help foreign people learn Japanese at the Tokyo Volunteer Action Center in Iidabashi. Every Thu, 7-9pm. nci_tokyo@yahoo.co.jp

14 PERSONALS 14.1 FRIENDS Brit for Brit (Yankee or Irish ok, too). Eee-up, chap from Blighty here seeking some fellow people from back home for chats involving words of more than one syllable (at least until we've had a few beers). i.do.tricks@gmail.com

S E E K I N G A S U G A R DA D DY ? Safely meet elite, wealthy men while having fun and making money. We are a members only dating club with stric t rules. Foreign and Japanese executives, lawyers, celebrities. Not an escort club. No charge for female members. 0120-675858 (English) international@ universe-club.jp http://universeclub.jp/en/women 0120-675858 About suits, ties and handkerchiefs. You: fashion, dresses, skirts, boots, high heels. Me: 36, from Santa Monica, athletic, love dancing (but don’t go to clubs), reading, art, mojitos, tempura and ice cream. You: live or work in central Tokyo. oohansel@yahoo.com American from NYC. Executive, 50s, loves Japanese art, culture, cuisine, seeking JF, 35-45, for a forever relationship. Friendship first, serious love next. Have you ever had a real connection? Visiting Tokyo in Apr. Imagine forever... rosigma21@yahoo.com British male, 31, friendly, tall, slim, seeking a nice girl to hang out with. Nationality/race unimportant, but should be 20-35 and have a nice personality. Interested in music and film: you should be, too. shiodomebye@gmail.com Cherry blossom chance. British knight seeks Japanese princess for a fairytale ending. Ok, a frog and a kiss will do—I'll take a gamble. 日本語 ok です！ samurai.will2014@gmail.com Chinese woman wanted. English guy, doesn't like Japanese women much, seeking a Chinese living in Tokyo. I'm nice. Contact me. summerfunk@ googlemail.com Climber and chess? Recently 離婚した僕が hope to meet a woman who loves rock climbing or has an interest. Keen chess player a plus. Let me pick you up in my Pajero and we'll see. christian@ local81.jp Cute, interesting Japanese male for SWF. Seeking attractive Western female with a nice smile. If you are interested in chatting over coffee or nice food, please contact me. I am looking forward to your message. Just try once. juniperten2013@ gmail.com Deep love. I'm Japanese, 40s, seeking real love. I have had many relationships, but have never felt real love. Can you help me discover what it's like? We can try everything together... toshinoris1012@ yahoo.co.jp Doing a favor for a very famous and accomplished lawyer. I am helping an attorney, 70, young, fit, with law offices in three states, find a marriage-minded Japanese lady, 35-55. vintagebook4u@ gmail.com Foreign girl? Read this. Foreign guy here. All my foreign girlie friends have disappeared back to their countries and I miss our "beer and bitching" sessions, when they'd tell me their dating horrors and I'd explain the man's point of view. ja22y@outlook.com Free afternoons. Are you a JF? If yes, please finish this sentence: I am cute and fun to be with because... If you can reply, this SWM is going to reply to you. Afternoon is best. jsn334@gmail.com

Friendship with benefits. Guy, 30, living in central Tokyo, seeking a friendswith-benefits relationship. Let's share many things together and enjoy every bit of life. I am fun to be with. I can speak some Japanese. Waiting for your email. uniman@gmail.com Gentleman for long-term, intimate friendship. Hi! I am a respectful, goodlooking Western man, 48, interested in having regular intimate time with a decent woman. I don't care about your age—just be positive, safe, nonsmoking. vbcfgt@hotmail.com German man, 30, in the Shinjuku area, seeking a passionate and loving Japanese woman. I like going to museums, restaurants and sporting events. hamenahamena@gmx.de Give me a chance? Hi, friendly, creative American M in Suginami seeking kind, considerate female, 30s, to enjoy Japan together. Traveling, writing, food, music, everything! Nihongo also ok. Try something new and mail me? It could be good. Thanks. go_shokai@yahoo.com Handsome Italian man seeking sexy, feminine and fun to be with! Let's go and explore new places and enjoy life. You must be financially independent. I'm seeking a partner, not a daughter. No childish girls—real women, please. sugartokyo4@yahoo.com Japanese man seeking someone. Japanese man, 41, seeks a partner for hanging out on weekends. I am openminded and easy to get along with. My hobbies are music, movies, books, and so on. hiro11923@gmail.com 090-6925-2360 Japanese man seeks female. Hi, I'm a JM seeking a foreign friend. I'm 30, easygoing, like driving, drinking, movies, dancing at clubs, etc. If you are seeking a friend, please mail me back. Any nationality ok. kosuke1016@hotmail.com Lived overseas? White English guy seeking easygoing JF who has lived overseas in an English-speaking country. I'm 30s, seeking someone, 20s, who prefers older guys. Nonsmokers only. A good intro gets my reply. titanislander+2@gmail.com Married for married. Married European guy, 30, in a sexless marriage, seeking a woman in a similar situation. Let's meet for a coffee first. strengthandhonour85@ gmail.com Massage friend. British man, 35, seeking a plump or fat JF to be a massage friend. I want to give and receive body massage, but it's too expensive. Let's help each other relax. No sex ok. zzztopsandfingers@hotmail.co.uk No English? 銀行で働いてるイギリス人が日本の女の子探してる。英語分からない女の子欲しい。 vint. snap@gmail.com

Nothing at home. Can you help me? Are you a nice, cute and friendly JF? I'm married, but no sex for years. Goodlooking guy, but trapped. Just touch me a little, that's all—can any woman help? jsn334@gmail.com Public fun. Are you a JF who likes to be a little bit crazy? What about secret fun in public places? We can do it quickly, with people close by—that will be exciting. At your lunch break maybe? joolsshow@ yahoo.co.jp Questions! Are you seeking a tall guy? Are you too stressed and in need of some fun? If yes, reply to me. jsn334@gmail. com Romance with an older lady. Very nice and sexy gentleman seeks an older, or much older, woman to have nice dates and a romance. feeltokyo@yahoo.co.uk S e e k i n g co m p a n i o n s h i p. I 'm Caucasian, 44, 194cm, nonsmoking, social drinker, enjoy traveling, music, books, hikes, dining out as well as cooking at home. I like simplicity of life. Seeking a long-term relationship with a like-minded woman. pisces030771@ hotmail.com Seeking fun. SWM, 28, French, seeking people who want fun like me. My life is stable, but boring and stressful. I need excitement for my mental health balance. If you feel the same way, contact me, please. reydajp@yahoo.co.jp

Seeking relationship leading to marriage from a serious lady. Please, no drama—straight to business. Japanbased people only. smartguy@i. softbank.jp Serious relationship. Single, 30, living and working in Tokyo, seeking a serious relationship. I like movies, travel. 日本

語大丈夫です。良かったら連絡ください。 lavillelumiere2015@gmail.com

Single, handsome, caring and witty Japanese male seeks a nice Western or Japanese female for friendship and possibly more. Nonsmokers preferred. If you are interested in exciting and happy times with me, email me now! cioinjapan@gmail.com SW Brit for encounter. Br it , 30-something, seeking a casual encounter. I am tallish, good-looking(ish), love chatting and drinking. Let's meet for a beer and take it from there if we click. happylamp@hotmail.co.uk UK lady. SJM, 30s, tall, slim, lover of books, films, music, seeks an attractive British lady with the same interests. hurryondownboy@yahoo.co.jp Venetian man seeking Asian woman in Tokyo. 日本語 ok. marcofromvenezia@ yahoo.com Virgin guy, 28, single. I haven't experienced a woman's touch yet because I suffer from extreme shyness. I am trying to find someone here so that I don't need to ask her directly. Anyone want to explore me? I won't be bad, I guess. meru.asap@ gmail.com WM in Tokyo seeking a pretty girl, 18-35. I am tall, white, with blue eyes. I speak Japanese. chrischrisjapan34@yahoo.com ラブレッター。 When I was young, I wrote love letters with pen and paper, waiting for days to receive the answer. Now it is just a sweet memory. vbcfgt@ hotmail.com

14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN

Just split up with my long-term boyfriend this month. JF, 45, seeking a boyfriend. Fit, 5'3, cheerful, loving, love watching football. Please reply if you are single, sincere and close to my age. Serious only. letmeknowmoreaboutyou@i.softbank.jp Love cherry blossoms? Seeking a tall, cool single foreigner living in the Midtown (Roppongi) area. Easy to hang out after work or on weekends. tokyomiffy@ gmail.com Rare discovery! Warmhear ted, attractive, positive, slim SJF, enjoys cooking, hiking, working, art, seeks gentle, attractive, successful Caucasian in central Tokyo who wants to raise a loving family. What's important is trust, respect and stimulating each other. Photo necessary. sorosoroaitai@yahoo.co.jp Seeking comfort, Hi, I'm 29, work six days/week, seeking men to comfort me. I don't have time to meet new people. I like movies, music, drinking and going out. What about you? butterfly.saya0324@ gmail.com Seeking single/divorced Caucasian professional, 35-45, tall and confident. I am single, tall and voluptuous. fumiyomuroya@yahoo.co.jp Seeking someone real to spend life with. I lived in Canada for a year and had a great time there. That experience brought me here. I'm looking forward to talking with you. 1069klo@gmail.com Serious relationship. Seeking tall Caucasian businessman, 37-50, faithful, considerate, educated. I'm seeking a long-term relationship leading to... I'm an Asian woman, 45. Please reply, w/ photo. check1111@hotmail.co.jp Very feminine, and I can be tough, totally fun. Japanese, mid-40s, happy with my looks from head to toe, with Western spunk and exotic Asian gentleness, seeking single business professional. Won't disappoint you if you're what I'm seeking. whiteforeverbeau@yahoo.co.jp

14.4 GAY & LESBIAN

LAVISH DATES AND INDULGENT NIGHTS—WE C R E AT E O P P O R T U N I T I E S for elite foreign males to meet elegant Japanese females. Start with a luxurious dinner date, take the night where you want it to go. Fresh, young w o m e n j o i n o u r c l u b eve r y day. Try our free one-month trial offer: first date is on us! 0120-675-858 (English) international@universe-club.jp http://universe-club.jp/en Bonjour, Blue-eyes! Seeking a tall, blue-eyed single French or British man, preferably someone who loves music and art and who lives in the Hiroo area. tokyomiffy@gmail.com Discover fun in Tokyo. Seeking nice, classy gentleman as companion for activities (dining, movies/concerts, spa, etc.). I'm free on weekday afternoons, too. I'm a JF, mid-30s, slim, pretty, attached—so nothing serious, please! Please reply with introduction. amynakagawa@outlook.jp Enjoy dating. Hi, I am a JF, 44. I love classical music (Mozart, Brahms), opera (Puccini), art (Raphaello), horseback riding, horse racing, good restaurants. Would like to have a friend to enjoy these things with. Thank you! elegant. note1211@gmail.com European man for serious relationship. I'm a SJF, 30s, seeking a European gentleman as I'm interested in the culture and history. Email me for more info. Serious and genuine people who know how to carry on interesting conversation only. trai_cay@hotmail.com Feminine SJF. Woman seeking romance and love in a long-term relationship. Welleducated, healthy, charming European or North American preferred. We all want a bit more warmth in life. I'm mid-40s. Singles only. nikitaeleon@yahoo.co.jp

LOVE-SONG LOVER. Romantic, mature guy seeking another nonsmoking guy for friendship, interesting activities around town, maybe more. Tall, dark brown hair, average build. Sense of humor along with independence important. Happy to exchange face photos and chat first. ming@zar.att.ne.jp Serious relationship. Middle-aged T seeking serious relationship leading to marriage. For love, caring for each other and a happy life. I know it's difficult, but it's my dream. eco_nyanko@yahoo.co.jp

14.5 ESCORTS ESCORTS have gone online. To f i n d a l o v e l y l a d y co m p a nio n , v i s it ht t p: // classifieds.metropolis.co.jp/ category/personals/escorts.

14.6 AND OTHERS TRANCE PARTIES. Attractive couple (European/Japanese) is seeking one or two women to join us for dinners and trance parties. All expenses paid—just enjoy. tokyopleasure6@ gmail.com Dominant Japanese gentleman, late 50s, with 25 years of experience, 177cm, 79kg, married, nonsmoker, discreet, perfectly healthy, seeks a hidden submissive lady of any age or nationality for Gorean or Histoire d’O style relationship. tarlstefan@hotmail.com Female wanted for light bondage play. Hi, ladies. Have you ever wanted to be tied up and spanked? Just light rope or a bath robe cord. Blindfold, too, if you want. A white guy in Tokyo can do it. joolsshow@ yahoo.co.jp

April 2015 Membership Fee

I can gratify your innermost kinky desire. I'm a SJM, 20s, DD-free, discreet, no strings attached. Just tell me what you want me to do. I'll reply within 24 hours. zaku2@live.jp Strict English teacher seeking pupil. English teacher with firm hands and strict educational methods is seeking an obedient pupil. bermudatri@hotmail.com

RELATIONS GROCERY SHOPPING FASHION BY GRACE BUCHELE MINETA

When I was a kid, I swore I would never become one of those people you see on an ice-cream run at midnight, wearing just pajamas. But then I grew up and realized that life is hard. More often than I would like to admit, I found myself driving to the supermarket at midnight for cake, chips, or whatever else I was craving. However, when my husband and I moved to Tokyo, I realized that my occasional pajama-clad grocery runs were long gone. Women dress so nicely in Tokyo ... even just to go to the grocery store at 2am.

スーパーでのお買い物ファッション

私は子供の頃、真夜中にパジャマ姿でアイスを買いに出かけるような人には絶対にならないと誓いました。でも大人になって、そんなこともしたくなるほど人生は大変なのだと気が付きました。認めるには恥ずかしいのですが、私はよく深夜にケーキやポテトチップスなど、その時々に欲していたものを買いにスーパーに行っていました。でも夫と東京に引っ越して来てからはそのようなことはしなくなりました。なぜなら東京の女性は常に身だしなみを整えているからです。深夜2時にスーパーに行く時でも。

■ Grace Buchele Mineta is an author who blogs and draws comics about her daily life in Japan at www.HowIBecameTexan.com.

horoscope BY CATHRYN MOE

♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

May 21-Jun 20 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Jun 21-Jul 22 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Money—that’s the operative word this week. Venus is in the early stages of reviving your income, or bringing you something you value. It could be a sentimental gift or a treasured family heirloom. Whatever form it takes, be sure to thank this goddess, for this is only the beginning. With the Pluto-Uranus squares, events may have conspired so that your self-esteem took a hit. Every time you get back up, world history and your destiny become one; your strength is an inspiration to others.

Finally! Venus in your sign brings you wealth in one form or another. Remember that personal qualities and how you present yourself have value. You negotiate with others using your energetic field every day, though most times that perspective is not spoken of or even known about. Mars still trails in your solar twelfth house of behind-thescenes activities. Dreams dominate this sector of your chart as well. The Sun shines a little light on this over the weekend.

A great week to send your request to the court of cosmic appeals—after all, Gemini is ruled by Mercury, the messenger. Gemini also rules the third house of communication, opposing the ninth house of law. So when it comes to quantum repartee or negotiating an agreement, you pretty much have it covered. Venus has moved behind the scenes in your chart. She may want to hide a financial strength from predators in order to give your resources time to grow.

If it weren’t for Mars and Uranus dancing a tightwire at work, it would be easy to welcome the Sun into this sector of your chart. The Sun rules the heart and your ego. As it is, awareness gained this week is worth the reflection, because you’re free to step out of the loop you’ve been in. No one ever said consciousness doesn’t come at a high price. Still, freedom is what you were born for. Saturday and Sunday are days of possible tension, which by Monday becomes a power base for you.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Sep 23-Oct 22 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Oct 23-Nov 21 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣ Your house of romance is full this weekend. Make sure you don’t have too many people interested in you at once, or you’ll have the same lesson coming to you from every direction—exponential, multiplied. The Sun-Moon conjunction on Friday is yummy, just as the Moon separating from the Sun is sad to see it go. Saturday and Sunday are for work, one way or another. You’ll have energy to tackle a big task. If you pace yourself, Venus will see you have a reward at the end.

Mar 21-Apr 19 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Jul 23-Aug 22 ♥♥♥♥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♣♣

Apr 20-May 20 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Aug 23-Sep 22 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

CANCER

Lessons learned lately are expensive — ouch! You’ll sur vive them. Your heart is overflowing, and you’re treated to glimpses of the bigger picture and your role in it. Once you see it, you’ll realize why Leo’s ruled by the Sun, which governs the heart. Compassion becomes the only way to absorb current shocks and move forward. Reflect the energies from your opposing sign, Aquarius. Understanding comes from pulling back and restoring yourself before going back in.

The tip of the Sun-Moon conjunction opposes, and can balance, your relationship on Friday. Then the weekend rolls around—or hits, depending on your personal velocity—and you get to see just what you’ve created together. For some weird quirk of universal law, even if you’re single, you still get to have the experience. It might be with a relative who wants to give you a gift, or a corporation that needs to make amends. Grab it when it comes, for it’s a lightning strike.

If it weren’t for you, everything would go by in a blur and no one would remember why. We didn’t just come here for the grit of the day; we came to resonate with something so lovely that inspiration follows. It may be a beautiful mind, a gorgeous rose, or a tempting ... someone. And don’t forget food! Then there’s the sound of a voice that soothes; the color of a green bud that blooms purple-pink. There has to be something that nourishes the soul, and you hold the power in your hand.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

Jan 20-Feb 18 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Feb 19-Mar 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Sagittarius, whom everyone requests when they need a lift, needs some tender, loving care this week. You’re not used to the heaviness of Saturn in your sign. This planet’s in the early stages of putting you in the driver’s seat. Sagittarius still governs everything from optimism and fun to the law and long-distance travel. Splicing together opposing viewpoints can become exhausting. Synthesizing, correlating, all in the name of holding onto the highest perspective, takes its toll. It may be time to delegate.

Sometimes it ’s good to get on another channel; you have so many other options this way. Some people beat upon a door that won’t open—because it’s the wrong door. Seems simple, but not when emotions are involved. Of all the signs, Capricorns are the most pragmatic; you do what works. Luckily, with the Sun-Moon conjunction this Friday, you can start your weekend with a little whimsy. Fantasy’s always a nice way to escape—no reality required.

Ever feel like you can think better when no one else is around? How hard is it to find that kind of space these days? The pressure is on to create your own little cocoon. Some people are born with a built-in buffer zone, others are porous and can’t help feeling everything around them. With the Sun-Moon conjunction in your solar second house of income on Friday, there may be pressure to perform or provide financial help. Make sure you are OK in the midst of it all.

Wow! The Sun conjuncts the Moon in Pisces on Friday, and feelings run deep: Music is inspirational, films change lives. Mercury in your sign makes you prophetic and mystical. Then the Sun leaves your sign and so does the Moon. Suddenly, you’re looking at what you have; income is a factor, and what you own. What you do with your time is valuable. Who you are and what you create is your signature of self. You become a wave of reality that travels on forever.

Nov 22-Dec 21 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Dec 22-Jan 19 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

PISCES

LINGO BOX Saiken (再建) = reconstruction

Headline of the Week: “Chinese Scrambling to Buy Shower Toilet Seats in Japan” (via The Japan News)

Jōkō (条項) = terms; clause

the small print

Fudōsan (不動産) = real estate Kyūryō (給料) = salary

BY STEVE TRAUTLEIN

Fukkyū (復旧) = recovery

stats

WE HAVE CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS AT REVIVING IMAGES OF PRECIOUS MEMORIES THAT PEOPLE HAVE GIVEN UP ON REPRODUCING” —Takahiko Koyama, president of

Percentage of respondents to a newspaper survey who say they support Sapporo’s bid to host the 2026 Winter Olympics

Retro Enterprises in Sumida-ku, which specializes in refurbishing black-and-white television sets

THANKS BUT NO THANKS ⊲A ⊲ group of NPOs and other organizations involved in reconstruction in northeastern Japan have designated 53 disaster-hit locations as “pilgrimage sites.” Among the destinations are two reactors at the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant and the so-called miracle pine tree of Rikuzentakata. ⊲Officials ⊲ in Okinawa have come up with a plan to get rid of an invasive species of wasp that’s been devastating local trees … by introducing another type of wasp that preys on the interlopers. ⊲Immigration ⊲ authorities suspect a Philippine diplomat helped three of his countrymen enter Japan to work at jobs in violation of their visa status.

MILESTONES ⊲On ⊲ February 12, The Mainichi Shimbun published its 50,000th issue. ⊲Self-Defense ⊲ Force officials say they’ve fulfilled the terms of a 2008 treaty by disposing of all of Japan’s cluster munitions. ⊲Scholars ⊲ say a recently discovered trove of

400 notebooks and other papers written by celebrated military commander Gentaro Kodama (1852-1906) represents “a boon for modern history research.” ⊲A ⊲ tasting event in Toyama featured a squid believed to be among the largest ever captured. The beast measured six meters long and weighed 130 kilos.

Number of purse snatchings carried out by a pair of 21-year-old scooterriding bandits, according to Chiba police

52 Percentage of mobile phone shops that provide “insufficient explanations” to customers who purchase smartphones, according to the National Police Agency

FROM THE BUSINESS DESK ⊲Didier ⊲ Leroy, a 57-year-old Frenchman, became the first non-Japanese to be named an executive vice president at Toyota Motor Co. ⊲Executives ⊲ at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank unveiled a plan to welcome back retired workers who “have specialist knowledge of inheritance, real estate, and other areas.” ⊲Members ⊲ of an education ministry panel have urged the government to boost the salaries of senior researchers and increase support for younger scientists. ⊲Doctors ⊲ with the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology approved a research study to determine whether improved screening of eggs fertilized in vitro can reduce miscarriage rates.

SPANNING THE GLOBE ⊲Dozens ⊲ of primary and middle school students in Osaka are flocking to a community center that’s been repurposed as an “English village.” The goal is to immerse the kids in an international environment. ⊲U.S. ⊲ actress Charlotte Kate Fox, who costarred in the hit NHK drama Massan, has been chosen to play the lead role in a Broadway production of Chicago. ⊲Officials ⊲ at the University of Tokyo and Peking University announced a plan to enhance academic and student exchanges.

GAME ON!

at a glance BY ADAM GARWOOD

Check out Adam’s works at http://meturl.com/adam3

⊲Tokyo ⊲ Governor Yoichi Masuzoe said he believes funds earmarked for disaster reconstruction in Tohoku would be better used to help pay for the 2020 Olympics. Which is weird, because last year Masuzoe went on record as saying the reconstruction budget should be used for disaster recovery and that the “cost of hosting the Olympics can be covered from elsewhere.” ⊲Officials ⊲ at JR East said they’ll introduce double-decker “green car” carriages on the Chūō and Ōme Lines in time for the Tokyo Games. ⊲Bottom ⊲ Story of the Week: “Mystery Person Who Sent Hina Dolls to U.S. President Kennedy Identified” (via Mainichi Japan)

Small Print Updated Weekly → METURL.COM/SMALLPRINT Compiled from reports by AP, Japan Today, The Japan Times, Jiji, The Tokyo Reporter, The Mainichi, The Japan News, AFP, Reuters and Kyodo

the last word

Illustration by Christi Rochin

International Women’s Day Achieving Gender Equality: A Challenging Endeavor BY ANNABEL LANDRY

THE FEMINIST DREAM THAT WOMEN CAN ‘HAVE IT ALL’ IS SLOWLY FADING.

WANT TO HAVE THE LAST WORD? Send your article to: editor@ metropolisjapan.com

I play taiko because it’s good for the soul, body and mind; it empowers me, and enables me to connect musically with others—men and women alike—who share a passion for this ancient ceremonial art. Our teacher, a middle-aged Japanese woman, is a veritable leader and a great source of inspiration. Throughout history, women like her have furthered women’s emancipation. Yet, in the Information Age, the status of women is still precarious. So, we must ask ourselves: Have we failed to raise greater awareness and foster wider public engagement? While women worldwide do enjoy more rights today than a century ago, those in developing nations still face great discrimination and hostility. This is something rigorously documented and repeatedly denounced by organizations such as Amnesty International, UN Women, and Human Rights Watch. The web page of the HRW Women’s Rights division points to the severity of the problem:

“Despite great strides made by the international women’s rights movement over many years, women and girls around the world are still married as children or trafficked into forced labor and sex slavery. They are refused access to education and political participation, and some are trapped in conflicts where rape is perpetrated as a weapon of war. Around the world, deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth are needlessly high, and women are prevented from making deeply personal choices in their private lives.” Women and girls in many high-income nations also grapple with sexual harassment and gender inequalities. According to UN Women, 40 to 50 percent of EU women experience unwanted sexual advances, physical contact, or other forms of sexual harassment at work. Studies have shown 30 to 40 percent of women face a similar ordeal across Asia. In the U.S., “83 percent of girls aged 12 to 16 [have] experienced some form of sexual harassment in public schools.” Meanwhile, the feminist dream that women can “have it all” is slowly fading. The reality is, raising a family while climbing the corporate ladder is difficult—unless we’re willing to sacrifice family life. Women still face barriers to promotion, remaining conspicuously underrepresented in top executive and board positions. Significant pay disparities also persist in the G-20. In the U.S., the Institute for Women's Policy Research recently found that “female full-time workers made only 78 cents for every dollar earned by men, a gender wage gap of 22 percent.” In Japan, nearly 30 years after the Diet

enacted the Equal Employment Opportunity Law, more than 50 percent of women still would rather become a housewife after marriage or childbirth. Not surprising, given the rigid work culture, long hours and gender income gap—the second greatest among OECD countries. However, with Japan’s rapidly declining population, the necessity to bring more women into the workforce has increased. To address this, Prime Minister Abe announced, in 2013, his “womenomics” policy package, aiming to boost the number of women in senior management by 2020. Marilyn Frye, notable American philosopher and feminist theorist, believes “the locus of sexism is primarily in the system and framework, not in the particular act.” Clearly, if we wish to end discrimination in all forms, we must reform existing social structures and institutions in ways that help create and sustain new perspectives on gender diversity. But first, we need to redefine gender roles. Consider this: While women have rightfully benefited from the introduction of gender-specific legislation and policies, men are often penalized in areas like property division, paternity leave, spousal support, and alimony, to name a few. This owes to persistent social stereotypes, prevailing expectations, and lack of progressive reforms. Another problem is that men—and boys—are also subjected to sexual discrimination, a fact that’s consistently ignored. Males, regardless of ethnicity and sexual orientation, regularly fall prey to sexual assault or other forms of violence, but are less likely to report the incidents for fear of being ridiculed or stigmatized. So, perhaps it’s time to recognize that we need to rally more men to our cause. If we’re serious about achieving gender equality, we must work together to fight all forms of discrimination, whether arising from gender, race, age, disability, or sexuality. Neither incitement to hatred against men nor endorsement of antiquated belief systems catering to patriarchy will move society forward. Sure, it’ll never be perfect. But if we beat our drums in unison and work together to achieve harmony, we can bring about change and innovation for the perpetual betterment of humanity. ■ Annabel Landry is a freelance writer living in Tokyo.

The views expressed in “The Last Word” are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of Japan Partnership Co. Ltd. or its partners and sponsors.

Travel Services and Destinations Adventure World Shirahama http://aws-s.com/english/index.php Japan Airlines www.jal.co.jp/en JALPAK (in Japanese only) www.jal.co.jp/domtour/kas/sekaiisan_kumano Wakayama Tourism Federation www.wakayama-kanko.or.jp/world/english

Kyoto

Nagoya

Tokyo

Osaka Nanki Shirahama

Nanki-Shirahama Airport Just 70 minutes from Haneda Airport; 3 flights a day

Nature sets the stage Enjoy white beaches, see dolphins and baby pandas, and relax in ancient onsens.