Metropolis 1099 by Metropolis

Apr 17-30, 2015 Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine www.metropolisjapan.com

ROMEO RISING

無料 PRICELESS

THE STORY CONTINUES IN JAPAN

CHECK OUR FAMILY SPECIAL

THE BEAN SCENE

TOKYO'S COFFEE CULTURE UNFILTERED

CHILD’S PLAY

OUTSTANDING OUTINGS FOR LITTLE ONES

LUKE CATWALKER

THE FORCE AWAKENS… FASHIONABLY

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

APR 17-30, 2015 • #1099

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Metropolis editorial team buzzed with caffeine this week as we trekked around Tokyo to find the best beans and brews in town for you. After the caffeine rush, we also caught up with After Romeo, a five-piece boy band from Los Angeles that’s making waves in Japan. Speaking of waves, chill to the relaxing sounds

of Hapa—sure to transport you to the shores of Hawaii. Meanwhile, check out places to take your children this Golden Week. Alternately, make this springtime even better by supporting TELL in their present campaign to fight child bullying in schools, an escalating issue in Japan. You’ll be glad you did!

Romeo, Romeo: The L.A. pop outfit’s on the rise

Bean Spirit: The best coffee hubs around town

Just Kidding: Hot spots for family fun

Cover design: Kohji Shiiki. Photography: GO! Yanagawa, taken at V2 Tokyo.

GET PRINTED!

IN FOCUS

SEND IN YOUR BEST PHOTOS FOR OUR MAY 1 ISSUE. DEADLINE APR 24.

metropolisjapan.com/focus

Newlyweds having their photo taken in a garden in Shinagawa, by JP Obadina. Instagram: jibesy

Search over 30 million photos 8F Nishi-Azabu Sonic Bldg, 3-2-12 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0031 Tel 03-4588-2277 Fax 03-4588-2278 • www.metropolisjapan.com METROPOLIS is Japan’s No.1 English magazine, founded in 1994 and published for Japan’s international community.

✓ 10 free starter credits with registration ✓ 25% credits bonus on purchase Promo Code: Metropolis

www.123rf.com/metropolis

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) Erin Hope (Design Intern) 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)

Metropolis Magazine

@MetropolisTokyo

MetropolisTokyo

editor@metropolisjapan.com

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.

upfront 123RF

LINGOIST FAMILY SECRETS Getting to know about someone’s family is always interesting, because it gives great insight into their lives—and serves as a great conversation starter. To get the scoop on family relations, use this lesson by Metropolis! JP EN

JP EN

Kyōdai wa imasu ka? Do you have any siblings?

Hai, ane ga hitori imasu. Yes, I have one older sister.

K 1

4 A

5 B

り 9

Naka wa ii desu ka? Are you close with her? Nakayoshi desu. Yes, very.

Solution: B

Across 1. Subway 5. Japanese currency 6. Poison 7. Violence 9. Island 10. Blackout

ANSWERS AT meturl.com/kanacross

Metropolis Members Club THIS WEEK’S WINNER! Gary Wolff won a Peeling Facial courtesy of Elana Jade

UPCOMING PRIZE One lucky MMC member will win a Beauty Therapy Course courtesy of Watanabe Beauty Therapy (Formachika)

Down 1. Wisdom or intelligence 2. Tourism 3. Moon 4. To walk 6. Single 7. Graveyard 8. Understanding

TO-DO LIST

TOP

flower festivals UNTIL MAY 6

UNTIL MAY 24

UNTIL MAY 6

Stroll around a 300-year-old azalea garden boasting over 3,000 varieties. Until May 6, 9am-5:30pm, ¥200. Nezu Jinja. Nezu, Sendagi, or Todaimae. Tel: 03-3822-0753. http://j.mp/bunkyotsutsuji2015

Enjoy sakura, tulips, poppies, and more at Showa Kinen Park. Until May 24, 9:30am-5pm, ¥80-410. Showa Kinen Park. Tachikawa. Tel: 042-528-1751. http://j.mp/flowerfest2015

Enjoy 400,000 nanohana, or rapeseed flowers, along with shibazakura, or moss phlox, and pansies. Until May 6, all day, free. Hanadaka Tenbo Hana no Oka, Gunma Prefecture. Gunma-Yawata. Tel: 027-321-1257. http://j.mp/nanohana2015

Bunkyo Tsutsuji Matsuri

Flower Festival 2015

ROPPONGI ART NIGHT 2015

APR 29-JUN 28

《Regrets》MASEY

Photo by YAMAKAMI Yohei

EDITOR’S PICK APR 25-26

Nanohana Matsuri

STAR WARS VISIONS Feel the Force, through works inspired by the mega-hit franchise. Created by artists from around the world, these works have been handpicked by George Lucas. Apr 29-Jun 28, 10am-10pm, ¥600-1,800. Sky Gallery within Tokyo City View in Roppongi Hills. Roppongi. Tel: 03-6406-6652. www.roppongihills.com/ tcv/jp/sw-visions

Roppongi will burst at the seams with art, into the wee hours, for this year’s edition of Roppongi Art Night. Art installations and performances will be on view across the area, including the principal commissioned work, a giant, LED-covered, glowing art truck by Seiichi Saito. High atop the Mori Tower, the Mori Art Museum will keep its doors open all night long. Lectures by curators involved in the ongoing “Simple Form: Contemplating Beauty” exhibition are to round out the event. Dan Grunebaum Apr 25, 10am-Apr 26, 6pm, free (some programs require admission fees). Roppongi Hills, Mori Art Museum, Tokyo Midtown, Suntory Museum of Art, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT, The National Art Center, and other spaces in the Roppongi area. Roppongi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.roppongiartnight.com

APR 27-28

ELLE VARNER American Grammy-nominated singersongwriter and multi-instrumentalist who released her debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, in 2012. Apr 27-28, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥7,000-9,000. Billboard Live Tokyo. Roppongi or Nogizaka. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/varner2015

MAY 2-3 & 4-5

SPIRAL INDEPENDENT CREATORS FESTIVAL An art festival aiming to discover, foster, and support the next generation of creators by displaying their work. May 2-3 & 4-5, 11am-7pm, ¥700. Spiral Hall. Omotesando. Tel: 03-3498-1171. www.sicf.jp

María Pagés, the Queen of modern flamenco, takes an innovative approach to Carmen. Apr 24, 7pm; Apr 25, 3pm; Apr 26, 2pm, ¥8,00012,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. http://j.mp/yocarmen2015

Courtesy of Beatink

APR 24-26

YO, CARMEN

APR 18

ADRIAN SHERWOOD: AT THE CONTROLS X 3 The veteran British DJ and producer will present three distinct sets, including live dub remixes of Japanese indie darlings Nisennenmondai. Apr 18, 6pm, ¥4,500 (adv). Daikanyama Unit. Daikanyama. http://j.mp/ sherwood2015

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Family Fit, Family Fun Take to the track, dress up, or hit the mats for memories that you and your loved ones can share

WEBSITE

PRICES • Admission: ¥500, 1 ticket (7 min): ¥2,100; 3 tickets, ¥5,200; 5 tickets, ¥7,800; 8 tickets, ¥10,500 • 1 child ticket (7 min), ¥1,600 (children must be in at least elementary school and over 115cm tall) • Group Race package (over 12 years old, five or more people): Mini Grand Prix ¥4,700 per person; Sprint Grand Prix ¥6,000 per person SPECIAL OFFER • Mention Metropolis and get free admission! 2F Harbor Circuit, Chiba Sports Plaza, 13-26 Dezuminato, Chuo-ku, Chiba 043-441-3243 Open Mon-Fri, 2-11:30pm, Sat & hols 10am-11:30pm, Sun 10am-9:30pm Chiba or Chiba-Minato mail@harbor-circuit.com www.harbor-circuit.com

HARBOR CIRCUIT

Looking for an exciting activity for Chiba your whole family? Give them some thrills at Harbor Circuit in Chiba, where you can battle it out in go-karts—no driver’s license required! First time in a go-kart? There’s no need to worry as full safety guidelines are explained before each heat. For those with large families (five or more), Group Races let you burn some rubber while competing with family members. There’s also the simpler Mini GP option, and even a final 35-lap race— with five different plans to choose from. If you’re looking to hone your skills, prove yourself against a real-time ranking system. No matter how crowded it gets, everyone is guaranteed four rides; and afterward, you and your family can still be part of the race-day atmosphere by relaxing around the circuit with snacks. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll be screaming for more!

MORE SPECIALS ONLINE →

WEBSITE

SERVICES • Sessions for Mat & Machine Private, SemiPrivate, Group, and Maternity Private • For schedule, check website • To arrange private lessons, feel free to contact the studio • Trial group lesson ¥3,000 (tax included) No1 Gold Bldg. 3F, Taishido 1-12-23, Setagaya-ku 080-6625-6351 nine-seven8@mail.ru Sangenjaya www.natakara.net

NATAKARA PILATES

Recover your physical and mental condition using the pilates method of fitness training, developed in the early 20th century. Natakara Pilates provides personal training in small groups, matched best to each individual. Far from the standardized Sangenjaya training provided by big sports gyms, their method provides several kinds of exercises to build up the core of the body, abdominal muscles, back, and limbs using mats and special machines. Many people use pilates as a rehabilitation method because of its ability to align the tension and balance of the muscle, thus helping them learn the right position and practical movement. The studio is just a two-minute walk from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line.

WEBSITE

SPECIAL METROPOLIS DEAL • Mention Metropolis and get a ¥500 discount off the quick plan (¥3,900 → ¥3,400) (Expires May 31, 2015) • Mention Metropolis and receive 10% off the fullscale plan • Oiran: ¥19,440 → ¥17,496 • Maiko: ¥14,040 → ¥12,636 • Feudal Lord & Samurai: ¥10,584 → ¥9,526 (Expires May 31, 2015) 5F Kabukiza Tower, 4-12-15, Ginza, Chuo-ku 0120-137-753/ Fax: 03-3524-0313 10am-6pm Higashi Ginza, Ginza www.studio-alice.co.jp/amusement/ kabuki/shop/

KABUKI PHOTO STUDIO

Have you and your family ever wanted to dress up in traditional Japanese costumes? At Kabuki Photo Studio, you can in just five minutes—right over your own clothes! Transform into an oiran (courtesan), white or red shishi (lion), etc., and take Ginza home 2L-sized photos (with mount) at the same time for just ¥3,900. If you want to go deeper, the full-scale plan allows ladies to become the popular oiran or maiko (apprentice geisha), and men to become a feudal lord or samurai. Prices vary by costume: Oiran for ¥19,440; maiko for ¥14,040; and feudal lord or samurai for ¥10,584. Each comes with two 2L photos, and you can either take them home at the same time or have them sent to you (limited to shipping within Japan) in around two weeks.A third option is the exciting “Dressing Up As a Kabuki Actor” (¥27,864) that can only be experienced in the studio. While looking ready for the stage, you can also take a clear and beautiful picture with Ginza’s famous Kabukiza theater in the background as a souvenir for ¥1,500. For those looking to try a kimono, children and adults can all dress up in the traditional garment for ¥5,400.

WEBSITE

SPECIAL OFFER • Special discount for Metropolis readers in each class. When booking your class, please mention the “Family Special.” 080-8887-0285 Mon-Sun 9:30am-7pm Meeting point: Tsukishima Station Exit 6 takenobu_exp@icloud.com www.atelier-naoko.tokyo/en www.takenobu.tokyo

TAKENOBU

Enjoy Japanese culture with your family! Learn to cook Japanese food and how to create handmade presents. Atelier Naoko is a culture school for foreigners that’s located in Tsukishima, an island in Tokyo Bay filled with cool alleys, near the Tsukiji fish market and Ginza. New classes have started in April, and include a Tsukiji fish market tour with a sushi chef and making sushi, karate, calligraphy, and how to host a Japanese-style home party. You can also make presents of preserved flowers or origami. Since most classes are held in an ordinary house (that of Atelier Naoko’s owner), you can learn in a comfortable atmosphere with a nice view of the Sumida River. Just a five-minute walk from Tsukishima Station (Yūrakuchō or Ōedo lines). English and French spoken. Tsukishima

cover story

DURING ROMEO Los Angeles boy band craze goes cross-continental BY LAURIER TIERNAN

aking waves in Japan with their infectious EDM-infused pop tunes and cute-as-a-button image are After Romeo, a hard-working independent boy band from Los Angeles. Comprising members T.C. Carter, Blake English, Devin Fox, Jayk Purdy, and Drew Ryan Scott, AR have come a long way from their humble YouTube beginnings, amassing fans (whom they call “Bromeos” for the men, and “Juliets” for the ladies) and being named by Billboard Magazine as a band that “could be the next One Direction.” As part of the April 1 release of their first album The Story Continues… on the Sony Records label in Japan, the fab five flew over to Tokyo for a promotional tour, and Metropolis wrangled a few minutes from their busy schedules to get the scoop. Please introduce yourselves and tell us what piece of the puzzle you bring to the group. T.C.: I'm T.C., and what I bring to the group is good energy on stage and good dance vibes. Jayk: My name is Jayk. I do a lot of the social media stuff for the band [on Twitter and Instagram: @AfterRomeo]. Drew: My name is Drew, and I like to twerk a

lot—no, I don’t. [Laughs] I write a lot of the songs, and I like to work a lot. Devin: I am Devin. I love singing; it’s one of my favorite things to do, ever. I do a lot of the graphic design for the group, and I also speak the most Japanese. Blake: Hi, I’m Blake. Whenever we don’t have a choreographer, I work on choreography for the group for certain numbers for a show. I'm also dance captain whenever there is a choreographer working with us. Why did you choose the name “After Romeo”? T.C.: Everyone knows the story of Romeo and Juliet. We wanted to take that and put a little twist on it. And we wanted to show that we will be as dedicated to our fans as Romeo was to Juliet. So we are “after” Romeo. When you started your career in 2013, what made you decide to release singles instead of an EP or album? Drew: [Our first single] “Free Fall” was a song

WE LITERALLY JUMP OFF STAGE TO GO SING TO OUR FANS … WE ALSO HUG THEM.”

T.C. and I wrote with a DJ, and the DJ wanted to put it out. So we recorded the song, and shot a video for it. We were excited but we didn’t want to put it out because it was kind of expensive. We were thinking, “let’s save this for something important.” And Jayk magically… Jayk: The only way were were going to release it was if we could get on Vevo's homepage. I thought, ‘I’m going to cold call Vevo’; and I did. Then I sent the guy the video, and he called me back a couple of days later to say, “Good news, you are on the homepage of Vevo!” Blake, Drew, and I live together, so I knocked on their doors early in the morning and said, “Guys, just a little bit of news: We got the homepage of Vevo, so we're going to be releasing the music video.” Drew: We were like, “What? How?!” and he was like, “I called them.” [Laughs] Thank you, Vevo. What do you think appeals to Japanese fans, about your group? T.C.: We always sing live. Jayk: We always stop to take pictures. We literally jump off stage to go sing to our fans, and I think that’s a little different from Japanese acts. Drew: We also hug them, which is not something that’s happening culturally here.

MEET THE GROUP BLAKE ENGLISH Hopeless romantic “Everything I create is a piece of me that I’m offering. If I didn’t put my all into it I wouldn’t just be ripping people off; I would be selling myself short.”

DEVIN FOX A huge Lana Del Rey fan “If I didn’t have music, I would be lost in my life. When no one else gets me… it does.”

After Romeo’s live at Tokyo 2015 Drew: To all the listeners out there, we’d like to know what your favorite song is on the album. So tweet us @AfterRomeo, or Instagram us @afterromeo and tell us what your favorite song is. T.C.: To all the readers of Metropolis, thank you for listening to the story about our album. Jayk: I love you very much, and thank you. Devin: Thank you so much for everything, and I can’t wait to see all of you guys that I haven’t met in person yet. Blake: I love you guys, and just continue to keep a look out on all of our social media: @AfterRomeo. Drew: In August, or maybe the end of July, we’ll be doing a very big concert; our first full concert in Japan. It’s going to have an hour-and-a-half’s worth of showtime: Full dancing, full singing. And we’re going to bring five lucky girls onstage. Check out our social media to find out how you can enter for a chance at that. Read the extended interview at http://meturl. com/moreromeo.

DREW RYAN SCOTT Has over 600 pairs of shoes “The first song I ever sang was ‘Ben’ by Michael Jackson. I could literally sound just like him. I guess that was my first taste of it all.”

JAYK PURDY Likes a girl with unique style “I saw Justin Timberlake singing and performing on an awards show, and from that point on I knew what I was put on this Earth to do.”

WEB www.afterromeoworld.com www.facebook.com/AfterRomeo http://twitter.com/afterromeo http://instagram.com/afterromeo

TC CARTER Chris Brown is his idol Photo by Davi Azevedo

What are some of your favorite things about Japan? Devin: I love how polite all the Japanese girls are. They’re just so kind and always give you gifts when they see you, and they’re just so appreciative of everything. In the liner notes for your album, there aren’t any musicians listed. What’s the situation behind your instrumentation? Drew: The producer and myself always play all the instruments. Drew is one-quarter Japanese. Was this why the band chose to include so many references to Japan on the debut album? Drew: I write a lot of songs for J-pop acts, so it was a market that I understood naturally. Was your song “Thank You” based on personal experiences? Do you as artists find it important to promote healthy reactions to negativity? Drew: Our whole tour in America for the past year and a half was called The Bully Proof Tour. And we based that around going to schools, and sharing our stories of how the five of us were bullied growing up. Like Devin… Devin: I had a music video when I was 12 or 13 that went viral, and it was all for hate. It had 300,000 dislikes, and there were a bunch of comments telling me to kill myself. Blake: But that’s typical of what a ton of kids nowadays are going through, especially with social-media bullying. So we wanted to help as many kids as we could, and we needed to have a song that told that whole story. Do you have any parting words for your fans and for the other readers of Metropolis?

“My mom always said performance was the way to be free and the best way to let who you really are shine.”

food&drink CAFÉ

¥¥

EN/JP

Streamer Coffee Company BY MOMOKO MOCHIZUKI

Located a short walk from Gakugei-Daigaku Station, underneath the tracks of the Tokyu Toyoko Line, is Streamer Coffee Company, originally opened in 2010 in Shibuya. With three branches in the Tokyo area, Streamer Coffee is owned by barista Hiroshi Sawada, who won the 2008 Free Pour Latte Art Championships in Seattle. He was the first Asian to do so, and with the highest score in history. The interior of the Gohongi branch is spacious, with a simple, minimalist design. Seating options include spots at a large sharing table, couches, armchairs, and counter-style tables including an L-shaped surface surrounding the kitchen, from which you can watch the baristas work. From this vantage point, you might even find yourself admiring the sleek instruments used to create that perfect cup of coffee. Although prices are a bit on the steep side at ¥410 for an Americano and ¥680 for a latte, the quality of the coffee all but makes up for it—and the cool latte art is a nice perk. If you’re looking for something to munch on, doughnuts,

CAFÉ

¥¥

EN/JP

MOCHA COFFEE BY MUBITA MAMBWE

The history of coffee boasts a richness found in the best of brews. Centuries before coffee capitals were made of the likes of Seattle, Melbourne, and Vienna, the Mocha port city of Yemen was where it all started. Fifteenth-century traders would return from Ethiopia, where the plant is said to have originated, with coffee beans that locals would then cultivate. Called qahwa in Arabic (which originally meant “wine”), Mocha’s coffee is distinct in flavor,

brownies, cookies, and cakes are available, including a fun doughnut with a military-esque camouflage glaze. The café offers free wi-fi, and that, along with the chill atmosphere, makes for a great space in which to chat, work, read, or simply zone out. Make sure to stop by the “Kilo Shop” on the second floor on your way out, where you can browse through vintage clothes and accessories uniquely priced by weight. Definitely worth a visit, Streamer Coffee Company will no doubt get your java groove on, and you can walk out having had great coffee, and even a new, funky outfit.

generally bearing a fruity aftertaste and a winelike fullness. And this is exactly what’s to be found at Mocha Coffee, a café that transports the history of Yemen’s brew to the streets of modern-day Daikanyama. Mocha Coffee itself is tucked behind other buildings—but a simple white sign out front bearing the shop’s name in English and Arabic makes it easy to locate. The green, seaside aesthetic also differentiates Mocha from its more commercial counterparts, which often attempt to emulate homey foreign coffee shops yet deliver a style that’s too polished to be cozy. Mocha’s interior is small yet refreshing. On a good day, sunshine pours in from the glass walls. The only downside is the lack of seating, with only minimal counter room and three tables inside. The café specializes in Mocha brews utilizing beans sourced from various Yemeni regions, served in small, fancy coffee cups that suggest the establishment functions more as a quick stop than an afternoon refuge. Nevertheless, the coffee boasts a quality that is unparalleled in Tokyo. The Mocha Anisi is a fruity concoction, brewed with beans from the Sana’a region in Western Yemen. Its aroma is fragrant and wine-like, and its flavor mild but full-bodied, subsiding to reveal a spicy aftertaste.

Open 7am-8pm on weekdays, 11am-8pm on weekends. 2-36, Chūō-cho, Meguro-ku. Gakugei-Daigaku. Tel: 03-6452-3145. Branches in Shibuya and Harajuku. http://streamercoffee.com

For the sweet-toothed, the Mocha Kulani is a treat. A mild brew, the beverage emits a cinnamon-infused scent and a hint of bitter cacao in its flavor—but gives way to an aftertaste that’s sweet. A wide array of other special brews is on hand, ranging from the earthy to tangy and citrusy. In case your coffee gets lonely, pair it up with the delectable desserts on offer. The cakes range from standard fare, such as blueberry cheesecakes and dark chocolate cakes, to more exotic varieties, such as the spice cake and the orange pistachio. Baklava and fig mamool cookies are also sure to sate cravings. Prices are on the expensive side, but it’s worth it, given the superb quality and rarity of its offerings, making for a coffee break like no other. 25-1 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-64278285. Tue-Sun, 12am-7pm. www.mochacoffee. jp/english.html

DRIP TRIPS

ARISE

Exploring Tokyo’s evolving coffee culture BY HENGTEE LIM

here’s perhaps never been a better time to get a cup of coffee in Tokyo. The scene has exploded over the last few years, and the increased quality of craftsmanship is L’Ambre evident in the likes of Hidenori Izaki—winner of the 2014 World Barista Championship—and Shuichi Sasaki, who took the World Aeropress Championship the same year. What makes this burgeoning scene fascinating is the mix of the traditional and the contemporary. Here, oldworld kissaten (tea rooms) and upstart third wave coexist, and variety abounds. The world of fashion has taken to coffee like steamed milk to espresso, and the expanding number of coffee-fashion hybrids and Japan. The kissaten also show a depth of condedicated roasters is turning the Harajuku- sideration rarely seen anywhere else. Chatei Omotesando area into a hotbed of new coffee Hatou, for example, pick out individual cups for experiences. Café Kitsuné, Little Cloud Cof- each visitor, and pre-warm both cup and saucer to ensure a pleasant experience. fee, and Coby Coffee are good examples, As the owners of the kissaten where a cup is permission to loiter, hang up their aprons and relax lounge, and linger over could-be into retirement, a younger genpurchases. The coffee in these eration is picking up the torch areas is as cool as it is caffeinand settling into the neighborhood ated, but it’s also international. shōtengai (shopping street) culture Together with The Roastery, the they fondly remember from their youth. aptly-named local roaster, there’s These new cafés reflect the changFuglen and Coutume from Norway Woodberry ing views of their younger owners. Saand France, respectively. But to understand coffee in Ja- Coffee Roasters rutahiko Atelier, Paddlers Coffee, and pan, one needs to look to the kissaten, where Woodberry Coffee Roasters, to name a few, coffee means aged beans, dark roasts, and a are encouraging communication and friendmoment of respite from the outside world. The ship through their open design and communal kissaten offers a snapshot of the past, where nature. But don’t think the coffee suffers for it— tradition is valued and the old ways observed. even NOMA’s own René Redzepi rated Switch L’Ambre in Ginza, for example, is more than Coffee, in the sleepy suburbs of Meguro, as one simply a coffee house—it’s a time capsule that, of his favorite coffee spots. The search for the perfect cup of joe also since inception, remains largely unchanged in both style and approach, offering a glimpse brings with it eccentricities unique to Tokyo. at the nostalgic tastes and times of an older These are personalities that made coffee as much an expression of who they are as what Sarutahiko Atelier they brew. Bear Pond Espresso in Shimokitazawa is famous both at home and abroad for a tireless, obsessive dedication to the perfect espresso. Owner Katsuyuki is talked of in equal parts reverence for his abilities, and disdain for his sometimes gruff nature. In the quieter suburbs of Mitaka, you’ll find

Switch Coffee

the tranquil, ritualistic Irukaya, a reservationonly coffee bar with a long list of rules and an even longer brew time. At these places, coffee acts as a conduit for that perfect moment of tranquility and enjoyment—whether that be short and sharp at Bear Pond, or long and drawn out at Irukaya. That two such places exist, centered around the same ingredient yet offering completely different experiences, is perhaps a testament to the versatility of the humble coffee bean. Together with all of this, a variety of coffeeroasting culture is taking root in residential Kiyosumi-shirakawa. Once home only to the Japanese Cream of the Crop, recently the area has seen New Zealand’s Allpress Espresso and San Fransisco’s Blue Bottle turn former warehouse spaces into café-roasteries and home bases for Japanese expansion. But among all the roaster wars and international expansion, it’s comforting to know that local community hubs like ARISE can still happily survive just around the corner from the famed Blue Bottle. In the end, coffee is a variety of things to a variety of people. From a simple morning pick-me-up to an art form, a ritual, a chance to connect and communicate, and even a window into culture. There might not be any comparable single product in Tokyo with this kind of diversity. Around every station and at every corner is a caffeinated experience with a story to tell, waiting to be discovered.

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

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE – SUBSCRIBE NOW!

One year (24 issues) ¥3,600. Half year (12 issues) ¥1,800. One year corporate subscribers: 7-100 copies ¥22,560. Half year corporate subscribers: 7-100 copies ¥12,000. Bank transfer or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club).

http://metropolisjapan.com/subscription

ENU FROM

COURSE M

¥3,500

AN DRINK

ALL YOU C

¥1,500

A tavern with a market-like atmosphere, filled with fresh fish and delicious cuisine. Enjoy crabs shipped directly from Rausu, Hokkaido, and many other fresh fish, meat, and many other delicacies from all over Japan—all at a reasonable price.

Have great times with great food!

DRINKS AND FOOD FROM ￥399

Nihon Sengyo Kokakurui Dokokai | 1F-3F 1-22-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku Tel: 03-5287-2568 | Open 24/365 days

Shoku Doraku Ueno Branch | 6-12-12 Ueno, Taito-ku Tel: 03-6803-2348 | Open 24/365 days

food&drink There’s a charm to Cafe Flattie, a tiny, Oceaniainspired neighborhood coffee shop in Kitasando. While offering little in terms of seating—the interior comfortably fits three to four by a counter just big enough to support your beverage—they have an extensive array of above-average drinks. The coffee selection boasts what is standard fare in Aussie and Kiwi cafés, but rarities in Japan. Their specialty is the flat white, but beers and wine from Australia and New Zealand are also available. Food selections are available at lunch. 3-33-6 Sendagaya, Shinjuku-ku. Kitasando.

Japanese coffee culture is alive and well at Café Trois Bagues, a quintessential kissaten (Japanese coffee house). Opened in 1976 by the mother of current owner Noriko Miwa, this retro hub heralds the heyday of Japan’s cafés, offering a quiet, bluesy refuge as well as a wide selection of hand-, flannel-, and slow-drip coffees. Brewed using an array of imported and customized machinery, the offerings are delectable cups of java that, together with the laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, make for a relaxed coffee break. Takada Megane B1, 1-21-1 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyodaku. Tel: 03-3294-8597. Jimbocho.

Great coffee is to be expected at Paul Bassett, a café established by a World Barista Champion. Coffee aficionados can sate themselves at this Shinjuku coffee shop, which serves up exquisite cups of lungos, flat whites, and magics, as well as French press and Aeropress coffee. The more conventional lattes, cappuccinos, and drip coffees also bear the distinct flavor of the chain; though their espresso, meticulously brewed as only Bassett can, is the star. B1F Nomura Bldg., 1-26-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-5234-5090. Shinjuku West Exit. www.paulbassett.jp

Allpress Roastery & Café, a New Zealand favorite, sets up shop in the quiet neighborhood of Hirano to serve up expertly made cups of Joe to Tokyoites. Brewed using carefully selected Arabica beans, Allpress offers everything from rich long blacks and creamy flat whites to macchiatos, cappuccinos, espressos, and lattes. Blended drinks (aka smoothies), fresh juices, and light deli snacks also on hand. 3-7-2 Hirano, Koto-ku. http://meturl.com/allpressroasterycafe

RECIPE COFFEE CUTLET RECIPE AND PHOTO BY RIEKO SUZUKI

Yes, you may be feeling skeptical about the combination of meat, herbs, and coffee—but trust me and try this. The pork cutlet is not deep-fried, but pan-fried. Herbs, cheese, and hint of coffee add refreshing aroma to juicy pork. The richness of coffee sauce is perfect for cutlet and steamed vegetables. Cooking time: 1hr (active 40 min) Servings: 2 PORK CUTLET • 2 slices pork loin • 1 tbs flour • 1 egg • 2 pinches salt and pepper • 40g bread crumbs • 1/2 tsp dried thyme • 1 tsp dried parsley • 1 tbs Parmesan cheese powder • 1 tsp ground coffee

COFFEE SAUCE • 1/2 tbs sake • 1/2 tbs mirin • 1 tbs water • 1 tbs soy sauce • 1 tbs rice vinegar • 2 tbs ketchup • 2 tbs Worcestershire sauce • 1 tsp instant coffee

OPTIONAL Steamed vegetables of your choice

DIRECTIONS 1. Rub pork loin slices with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 20 min. 2. In a shallow container, mix bread crumbs, thyme, parsley, cheese, and ground coffee. 3. Sift flour on the pork, then dress with beaten egg and evenly cover with the bread crumbs, cheese, coffee, thyme, and parsley mixture. 4. On frying pan, heat vegetable oil that’s about 0.5cm deep. Pan-fry pork on medium-low. Fry both sides for about 15 min until golden brown. Shift them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. 5. In microwave-safe bowl, combine and mix all the ingredients for the coffee sauce. Microwave without cover until it boils. Take out and mix well. Put back in microwave and let boil again. 6. Put pork and steamed vegetables (optional) on plate and cover with generous amount of coffee sauce.

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

ENJOY GOLDEN WEEK! April 29th - May 6th

Plan your holiday with JapanTravel.com Explore Japan. Share your experiences. Earn rewards.

city life

ASK METROPOLIS ANYTHING

YOUTH SUPPORT Fighting bullying at schools

BY VICKIE SKORJI, DIRECTOR OF TELL

or the next two months, TELL is making noise about the cost of bullying—a source of concern both globally and in Japan— with particular attention to its impact on youth. Bullying can take many different forms— physical, verbal, or emotional—and can be direct or indirect. It involves unwanted aggressive behavior toward an individual that involves a power imbalance, whether real or perceived. Cyberbullying involves the use of cell phones, instant messaging, email, chat rooms, or social networking sites to harass, threaten, or intimidate. Whatever the form, the intent is to make someone else feel bad. Sadly, most children worldwide will experience some form of bullying while at school; and for many, it’s ongoing. Bullying is associated with such negative consequences as low self-esteem, school absenteeism, a drop in grades, mental health issues, and even suicide. A recent U.S. meta analysis of 491 bullying studies found a significant correlation between bullying and suicide ideations, along with suicide attempts—and it is stronger in youth (according to Gini and Espelage, 2014). Unlike conventional bullying, cyberbullying can happen 24/7. Messages and images can be posted anonymously and instantly distributed to a wide audience. It can be difficult to trace the source, and more so to delete inappropriate or harassing content once posted. In 2013, the Japanese Education Ministry reported nearly 200,000 cases of school bullying. Of these, nearly 1,000 were reported to the police, and 196 suicides occurred. Cyberbullying made up 4.7 percent of all reported cases, a 12-percent increase from 2012. The government also reported that, on average, students aged 10-17 spent 107 minutes per day on mobile devices, and more than two hours a day online. Nara University clinical psychologist Tokuhiro Ikejima says, “In Japan, bullying tends to happen between very close friends, and the situation is often worsened because bystanders do not try to intervene. The bullying often takes the form of social exclusion rather than violence.” Despite these challenges, countries across the world are scurrying to combat cyberbullying. In June 2013, Japan’s National Diet enacted an anti-bullying bill to prevent increasingly serious cases in reaction to a string of incidents that

IN 2013, THE JAPANESE EDUCATION MINISTRY REPORTED NEARLY 200,000 CASES OF SCHOOL BULLYING. OF THESE, NEARLY 1,000 WERE REPORTED TO THE POLICE, AND 196 SUICIDES OCCURRED. led to suicides and murder. As of April 1, 2015, Aichi Prefecture introduced a law banning the use of smartphones and mobile devices after 9pm for children aged 6-15 years. The curfew aims to discourage children from spending an unhealthy amount of time on electronic devices, as well as reducing online bullying. However, laws are only one part of the equation; bullying is an issue that needs attention from the whole community. TELL understands that bullying is a serious concern in schools and communities, and when left unattended, can have a serious impact on a young person’s mental health, emotional wellbeing, and identity. Children left unsupported can develop unhealthy coping strategies leading to self-harm, isolation, and mental health problems that affect their ability to learn and develop healthy relationships.

In February of this year, TELL launched our anti-bullying video contest, “Stand Up, Don’t Stand By.” The competition is open to middle and high school students, and raises awareness of the role of the bystander, stressing that bullying is something everyone can take a stand against. Bystanders can either be part of the problem or an important piece of the solution. Certain groups are more vulnerable to bullying than others, such as students with learning or developmental disorders, or with gender and sexual orientation issues. LGBTQ youth are more likely to experience physical, sexual, and dating violence than their peers, and two to seven times more likely to attempt suicide. On April 25 and 26, TELL will have a booth at the Tokyo Rainbow Pride Festival and march in the parade to raise awareness of the issues facing the LGBTQ community and particularly LGBTQ youth. On May 24, our annual charity walk and runathon is all about anti-bullying. We hope that schools, students, parents, and organizations in Japan will support our efforts, join our events, and help fight against bullying to make school a safe place for our youth. If you want to “Ask Metropolis Anything” about life in Japan, send your questions to askanything@ metropolisjapan.com, and we’ll find the most appropriate people to answer your queries.

city life

CHILD’S PLAY IN THE GTA A city-full of fun BY HELEN A. LANGFORD

he Greater Tokyo Area isn’t just for grownups: A high concentration of museums and places to play makes it an excellent spot to entertain the smaller set. Consider the following as a starting point—a mere drop in the entertainment bucket.

PLAY PLACES The wonderful world of indoor playgrounds provides hours of frolicking fun, a treasure trove of toys, and plenty of new otomodachi. Your local jidoukan (children’s play hall) should be first on the list when seeking a change of scenery. In addition to having a lot of toys and activities, they’re the perfect place to meet other young families in your area, both widening your little ones’ social circles and adding to your support system. What’s even better is that they’re usually free. Ask at your city hall for locations.

For something a little fancier, Aneby Trimpark, a relative newcomer to the Tokyo entertainment scene, aims to entertain ankle biters to adolescents. Boasting all the usual playground equipment—plus trampolines, a gymnastics area, and pedal scooter track—it also holds lessons throughout the day for more structured play. Aomi. http://anebytrimpark.com Kid-o-Kid knows child’s play; it’s operated by Tokyo-based toy company BørneLund, after all. Bouncy surfaces, dress-up and make-believe areas, toys, and—of course—ball pits abound. And with 12 facilities in the Tokyo-KanagawaChiba area, there’s sure to be one not too far away. See website for locations: www.bornelund.co.jp/kidokid Drop in to Kodomo no Yu, a hot-springthemed play area at Tokyo Skytree, for a unique take on indoor play. “Soak” in the onsen ball pit, get your matsuri on in the festival area, or

try your hand at seasonal crafts and activities. Tokyo Skytree. http://kodomoku.com

EDUTAINMENT Sure, kids learn when they play, but sometimes it’s nice to make learning the focus. Don’t fret about forcing dull days on your darlings; museums are about amusement as much as they are about academics. Make a beeline for Odaiba’s Miraikan before May 10 to catch the tail end of teamLab’s special exhibition. Parents and progeny alike will be spellbound by the digital art on display, and kids will have a field day seeing their colored pictures come alive on a giant screen. The upper floors of the Miraikan are also overflowing with interactive exhibits. Fune-no-Kagakukan or Telecom Center. www.miraikan.jst.go.jp/en The Tokyo Toy Museum leans more toward entertainment than edification. It's housed in an

old elementary school, and each room features a different set of toys and games. On the third floor, a spacious classroom is reserved for instructor-led crafting. Yotsuya-sanchōme. http://goodtoy.org/ttm Your kids need not be f ire engine-crazy to enjoy the Tokyo Fire Museum. With a collection of historic equipment, kid-sized uniforms, and helmets—and even a few vehicles for the kids to hop into (including a helicopter!)—the Fire Museum keeps halflings happy while giving Mom and Dad a peek into Edo’s curious firefighting culture. Yotsuya-sanchōme. www.tfd.metro.tokyo.jp/ts/ museum.html The National Museum of Nature and Science (Kahaku) brings Tokyo Dome-sized amounts of … well … nature and science to inquisitive youngsters. Though it's under partial renovation until roughly July, there’s still more than enough on display to f ill a day—not to mention Theater 360, a 360-degree theater that screens short documentaries all

day. Stargazers should check out the museum’s nighttime astronomical observations on the first and third Friday of each month. Ueno. www.kahaku.go.jp/english Parents of solar-system aficionados in the western Tokyo area need look no further than Fuchu’s Kyodo no Mori Planetarium, where several daily shows let kids reach their cosmos quota. Part of a museum/planetarium/park complex, where both terrestrial and extraterrestrial entertainment abound. Fuchū-Hommachi. www.fuchu-cpf.or.jp/museum Older kiddos will enjoy the Cup N o o dl e M u s e um d o w n Minato-Mirai way. Though it’s brimming with the history of the instant snack, the hands- on noodle-making areas are sure to take top spot where kids are concerned. Little siblings (3 years and above, and at least 90cm tall) can “make like a noodle” in the museum’s Cup Noodles manufacturing process park. Minato-Mirai or Bashamichi. www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/ english

HOLIST IC SEMINA HE ALTH MAY 20 R HELD & OR MAY MAY 22 2 AT CLU 4TH B 360

Need a simple, tried-and-tested approach to radically change your health? Have you been trying to piece together all the confusing health information out there? Sick of diet food, exhausting workouts and temporary results? It’s time to personalize an approach that works for you!

SEE MORE AT: HTTP://PRIMALHEALTH.CO/PRIMAL-HEALTH-SEMINAR/

“The course was very informative and helpful. I felt that I learned a lot that I wish I had known about much earlier in my life!” -Catherine

THE PRIMAL HEALTH SEMINAR WILL BE HELD AT CLUB 360 Just 3 min walk from Roppongi Hills Pristine showering facilities Large modern facility with spacious studio & 5-star resistance zone

fashion fix

BY SAMUEL THOMAS, FASHION EDITOR

ON TREND IN TOKYO ON POINT The Happening, a commune of avant-garde Japanese designers, is on target to be one of the most exciting fixtures on the Japanese fashion calendar—not that you can plan for this. So far, their guerrilla approach has led to them hijacking an official runway event during Tok yo Fash ion Week with an impromptu presentation, and a public show that took place throughout the LaForet depar tment store in Harajuku last season. Their latest project saw them erect a fashion caravan before sending it through the streets of Shibuya, Harajuku, and on to Bunka Fashion College in Shinjuku before finally coming to rest in Aoyama. The caravan itself was a pleasant pastiche of the electioneering vans currently making the rounds all over the metropolis. And with its promise of a more fashionable future, it’s arguably one that more of the city’s youth is set to turn out to vote for. In terms of the fashion proper, Koshiro Ebata’s Garter and new line Takuma, from one of the masterminds behind Harajuku shopping institution Dog, looked particularly promising and are names you’re likely to see championed in the future.

STREET FOCUS

SHOPPING STRATEGY

Sometimes at Tokyo Fashion Week, the real action is on the streets—not the runways—as this week’s extravert fashionista can attest. It comes to something where the current season Mexican guarachero-inspired long-toed boots from Rei Kawakubo’s Comme des Garçons Homme Plus are not the star of an outfit, in this case eclipsed by some well-selected vintage pieces that tie the look together. For those wondering, the boots are apparently relatively easy to walk in, but it can be safely assumed that a rush-hour train is out of the question.

biker jackets where the zips and pockets reflect the buttons and vents of the handheld. The latter took prints from the original manga and scattered them onto designs mutated in tribute to the path taken by the manga’s antagonist, Tetsuo Shima. In this collection, the standout piece has to be the Boba Fett-inspired shirt. It can just about evade the attention of the general public, but hardened fans will clock it on sight. Elsewhere, the collection has a nostalgic ‘90s streetwear vibe in tune with the street scene of the moment. So, fan or not, this is definitely worth a look.

Photo by Samuel Thomas

Just in time for the Star Wars Visions exhibition that starts this month in Mori Tower at Roppongi Hills, Morita Tsuyoshi’s cult label Thunderbox has launched into spring with a Star Wars-themed collection channeling the fashion Force. The brand is one of Japan’s best proponents of geek chic, knowingly humorous but with enough fashion edge to ensure the look is more Harajuku than Akihabara. In the past, the label paid homage to Gunpei Yokoi with a Nintendo Game Boy-themed collection, and even taken on Katsuhiro Otomo’s Akira. In both cases, it blended literal motifs from the pop-culture subject matter with more subtle references in the very structure of the garment. The former combined 8-bit embroidery of Game Boy characters with

FASHION CALENDAR

CHECK METROPOLISJAPAN.COM FOR THE LATEST FASHION CALENDAR.

Photos by Samuel Thomas

KAWAII CAMPING WITH NE-NET

azuaki Takashima’s ever-cheerful brand Ne-net can be a confusing one for external viewers of the Tokyo fashion scene. Grounded in pure whimsy and a childish naivety, it’s at odds with the status-driven “you-can’t-sit-with-us” elitism that’s regrettably ubiquitous with the fashion scene almost everywhere beyond Japan. This season, the line’s unashamed joie de vivre extends past the clothes to the presentation of the collection itself, employing the novel method of mixing every aspect of the fashion system into one open showroom. Normally, the fashion business segments the presentation into three parts: The runway show, where the media see the collection; the exhibition, where buyers place their orders; and the photo shoot, where the seasonal visuals used to promote the collection at retail are captured and edited. This time, Ne-net threw everything together into one warehouse setting where models were styled and had their makeup applied in full view before walking through the audience and being photographed for the lookbook. At the same time, the buyers were writing orders, trying on clothes from the racks, and peeking over the shoulder of the graphic design team as they worked. The collec tion captured a jaunt up a mountain, taking outdoor essentials and channeling them through a distinctly kawaii lens liable to improve your odds of social, if not practical, survival fitting for Tokyo.

movies

BY DON MORTON

featured movie

WHIPLASH To what lengths must we go to bring out innate talent in the quest to be the best? What sacrifices must be made? A talented but naive 19 -year- old jazz drumming student (an impressive Miles Teller) at a prestigious NYC music academy is challenged to rise to his full potential by a brutal, Machiavellian, perfectionist teacher/bandleader (an Oscar-winning J.K. Simmons). While the inspirationalteacher setup has been fairly beaten to death, the execution here is unique. You will not know where it’s going, and it will shatter your expectations. It turns the sentimental genre on its head and plays more like a sports movie, or even a psychothriller. Visceral, kinetic, and compelling, it was nicknamed “Full Metal Julliard” at Sundance. Don’t be expecting Dead Poets Societ y or Mr. Holland’s Opus. Writer/Director Damien Chazelle (someone to watch) never misses a beat or hits a sour note in this tightly paced, propulsive film. One of the best movies of the year, the title refers to a difficult bigband number that hinges on the drummer. It also describes what you might feel after surviving the intense and cathartic final scene. Big screen, please. For the sound. Japanese title: Session. (106 min)

NEW

THE GOOD LIE Four young Sudanese sur vive a brutal war, a monstrous trek to a refugee camp, and 13 years there before being brought to Kansas City for resettlement. To this point, the movie is a moderately interesting, if highly sanitized, tale of survival. Then Reese Witherspoon appears in a supporting role as an employment counselor, and the movie sags. Reese does nothing wrong, and her misleading prominence on the poster will likely boost the film’s attendance, but her character reframes the focus to a white American point of view, when the African bookends of this worthy, good-hearted tale are far more compelling. Japanese title: Good Lie: Ichiban Yasashī Uso. (110 min)

NEW

DURAN DURAN: UNSTAGED G oing in, I couldn’ t name a single D uran Duran hit. (I can now, and realize why I was never a fan.) But it was directed for some reason by David Lynch, who used to make cool movies, so it was worth a look. What I was totally unprepared for was more than two hours of uninspired (BTW completely staged) concert footage of flaccid Brit new-wave drivel, mostly at the same tempo, overlaid by pseudo-artsy Lynchian images that kept flashing and waking me up. Okay, I realize this is totally subjective (but it’s fun to write), and I apologize to any remaining DD fans. But you deserve better. (121 min)

INHERENT VICE Paul Thomas Anderson, i n n o v a t i v e m a ke r o f such very serious f ilms as There Will Be Blood and The Master, tries on a comedy this time, beautifully adapting Thomas Pynchon’s 2009 sun-dappled beach-noir novel about a stoner detective (a spot-on Joaquin Phoenix) named Doc in early-70s El Lay. Think Raymond Chandler by way of Cheech & Chong. Josh Brolin’s great as Doc’s nemesis, the straight-laced cop “Bigfoot” Bjornson. It’s unpredictable, amusingly louche, strange, and deranged. And if it’s not always logical, well, don’t try to figure it out. Best to just lie back and let the low-key parody take you. (148 min)

BIRDMAN OR (THE UNEXPECTED VIRTUE OF IGNORANCE) This intellectually active, ensemble showbiz dramedy earned all the praise it’s getting. But despite the dazzle, the showy direction distracts from the narrative. Alejandro González Iñárritu makes this gimmicky joyride work because he’s a pro, but it still has a film-school, “look at me!” feel. None of the characters is particularly likable, giving the film little emotional punch. This will be remembered, if at all, as a brilliant technical experiment. Bottom line: It’s one of those films that are easier to admire than to enjoy. Worth seeing? Absolutely. Best Picture? No. Japanese title: Birdman arui wa (Muchi ga Motarasu Yoki-senu Kiseki). (120 min)

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT I’m a fan. I think even mediocre Woody Allen movies are bet ter than most of what’s out there—but that doesn’t mean they’re not disappointing. This one starts out strong. It’s 1928. Colin Firth is a stage magician and noted paranormal debunker who’s called upon to poke holes in the amazingly accurate prognostications of a pretty young clairvoyant (Emma Stone). But then he’s “converted,” falls in love, and the movie immediately loses steam, along with any magic it might have had. Threadbare and predictable, this one feels off-the-rack. The script could have used a third draft, or even a second. (97 min)

ROAD Some admire the tenacity of motorcycle racing champions who overcome horrid injuries and get back in the saddle to win again; and are genuinely surprised when some hero biker slams into a tree. Others might view the whole thing as madness or at least desperation, as what else can a biker champ do but keep going? This doc, narrated in the dulcet tones of Liam Neeson, centers on brothers Joey and Robert Dunlop, who for decades dominated the road racing circuit (done only on the open roads of Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man), their career highs, lows, and eventual deaths. I found it depressing. Japanese title: Road: Destiny of TT Rider. (102 min)

NEW

Whiplash: © 2013 WHIPLASH, LLC All Rights Reserved; The Good Lie: © 2014 Black Label Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.; Duran Duran: Unstaged: © 2013 Magnus Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved; Inherent Vice: © 2014 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC,AND RATPAC-DUNE ENTERTAINMENT LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance): © 2014 Twentieth Century Fox; Magic in the Moonlight: © 2014 Gravier Productions, Inc.; Road: © 2014 DoubleBand Films All Rights Reserved; The Two Faces of January: © 2014 STUDIOCANAL S.A. All rights reserved.; Kite: © 2013 Videovision Entertainment, Ltd., Distant Horizon, Ltd. & Detalle Films All rights reserved; Narco Cultura: © 2013 by Narco Cultura, LLC; Jimi: All is by My Side: © MMXIII AIBMS, LLC. All Rights Reserved.; Pride: © PATHE PRODUCTIONS LIMITED. BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION AND THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE 2014. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; Jupiter Ascending: © 2014 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND VILLAGE ROADSHOW FILMS(BVI)LIMITED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

More reviews: metropolisjapan.com/movies

NEW

THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY As his directorial debut, screenwriter Hossein Amini (Jude, Wings of the Dove, and Drive, but also 47 Ronin) takes on a Patricia Highsmith Oedipal triangle. It’s 1962. Chester (an underplayed, genuinely scary Viggo Mortensen) is a shady, middle-aged American businessman vacationing in Greece with his muchyounger wife (Kirsten Dunst). When he accidentally kills the PI sent to sniff him out, he enlists the help of their young Greek-American guide (Oscar Isaac), who is clearly attracted to his wife, and tangled webs are weaved. Literate, sexually charged, atmospheric, and smolderingly suspenseful. Japanese title: Girisha ni Kieta Uso. (98 min)

NEW

KITE Ya s u o m i U m e t s u ’ s infamous 1998 ultracontroversial, childr a p i n g , s u p e r- v i o l e n t anime cult fave about an orphaned and abused schoolgirl-cum-assassin (India Eisley) get s a desexualized, toned - down live -ac tion treatment here, but the exploitative at titude remains. The apparent hook is that Samuel L. Jackson is in it, but he usually seems so distrac ted it’s like he’s daydreaming about how he’s going to spend the paycheck. This dreary Sin City cheapo rip - of f is mean-spirited just for the sake of mean-spiritedness. Obvious, repetitive, and just plain boring, this kite don’t f ly. (90 min)

NARCO CULTURA Across the river from low-crime El Paso exists hellish Juarez, ruled by Mexican drug cartels that either pay off or simply murder anyone who resists them. Shaul Schwarz’s quietly subversive doc looks at the situation through the eyes of two contrasting men: An increasingly popular rapper who glamorizes the kidnappings and beheadings of the vicious mega-gangs, and a hard-working, often threatened crime-scene technician who investigates the city’s 3,000 annual murders, only to have his painstaking evidence ignored by his bribed superiors. Absorbing and depressing. Japanese title: Minagoroshi no Ballad: Mexico Mayaku Sensō no Hikari to Yami. (103 min)

JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE Don’t expect a jukebox musical based on Jimi Hendrix’s career, since his es tate wouldn’ t allow direc tor John Ridley to use any of his music. But, paradoxically, that restriction may have resulted in a better biopic. Instead, this is an impressionistic look at 1966-67, the period in which he was discovered by Keith Richards’ girlfriend Linda Keith (a terrific Imogen Poots) and went from being sideman Jimmy James to the influential legend he remains today. OutKast’s Andre Benjamin aces the title role with intuition and flair. A cover of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” steals the show. Japanese title: Jimi: Eikō e no Kiseki. (118 min)

PRIDE In 1984 gay activist Mark Ashton (Ben Schnetzer) o r g a n i ze d “ L e s b i a n s and Gays Support the Miners,” to raise funds for the UK’s striking coal miners. LGSM’s donations were spurned by the national union, but accepted by a small Welsh local when the wrong (or right) person answered the phone. There ensues a series of cultureclash set pieces as a spirit of solidarity gradually overcomes fear and bigotry, and caricatures become individuals. Great cast. Manipulative? Sure. Feel-good? Absolutely. Preachy? Never. It’s the kind of movie that has audiences applauding and misty-eyed at the end. I did, and I was. Japanese title: Parade e Yokoso. (120 min)

JUPITER ASCENDING Jeez, where to star t? W hile t his lumb ering Dune rip-off is eye candy of the first magnitude, it fails on every other level. Mila Kunis, a delightful rom-com actress, is way out of her league as an action heroine. She spends most of her time being kidnapped, rescued, or making goo-goo eyes at a Spock-eared, green-goateed Channing Tatum. The storyline, glimpsed occasionally between the many, many battle scenes, is all but impenetrable. After this $175 million train wreck, it’s unlikely the Wachowskis will be entrusted with any more big budgets. Maybe they’ll have to resort to storytelling instead. Japanese title: Jupiter. (127 min)

NEW

eiga In Holly wood they would call this flick “high concept,” which is a hilarious term because it essentially means low concept or inane idea. “High concept” By Rob Schwartz means you take one simple or silly notion and base a whole film on it. In this comedy, the theme is that the first of April is the one day you’re allowed to “lie”—that is play jokes on people. With a huge cast of 27 main actors split into seven different episodes, the pic flits about between stories and atmospheres. The main narrative focuses on Ayumi (Erika Toda), a cleaning woman at a hospital who suffers from a fear of people. The extremely shy lass has a one-nighter with doctor Makino (Tori Matsuzaka), who is a sex addict, and finds herself pregnant. Other scenarios include a pair of high school best friends, one of whom comes out as gay; a stupid kidnapper snatching an elementary school girl and botching it badly; a guy who left Japan 42 years earlier and finally comes home; and a junior high school kid who believes in aliens. TV director Junichi Ishikawa tries to make the whole mess entertaining, but it’s unclear if this just a bad April Fools’ joke. Unfunny and fairly absurd, there is little to keep the viewer glued to the screen. (120 min)

APRIL FOOLS

movie news What most people know about Japanese country music could be inscribed on the head of a pin with room left over, as the saying goes. The new documentar y Made in Japan aims to correct that with a portrait of Japan’s “first lady of country music,” singer-songwriter Tomi Fujiyama, who hit the charts in her homeland while still a teenager. In 1964, she became the f irst Japanese performer to take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry, where she followed Johnny Cash and got the only standing ovation of the night. At the doc’s premiere at the South by Southwest festival last month, director Josh Bishop revealed that filming took 11 years due to limited funds. He said the lesson he learned during production was that, “if you don’t give up, you eventually get what you want,” noting his subject has been singing country music for over 60 years. In the film, Fujiyama makes the trek from Nagoya to Nashville one more time at the age of 75, saying she hopes to still be playing guitar at the age of 100. The petite fireball walked the red carpet at the fest with actor Elijah Wood, who narrates the documentary, and basked in the new attention with an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. The Japan release has yet to be announced. Stay tuned to w w w.madeinjapandoc.com. Kevin Mcgue

NEW

cinematic underground One of this year’s most talked-about Oscar snubs was Canada’s entry for Best Film in a Foreign Language being denied a nomination. Xavier Dolan’s Mommy (pictured) tells the story (in French) of a single mom struggling to bring up a troubled teenage son, and her encounter with a mysterious neighbor who wants to help. Playing from April 25 at Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho (2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku; www.ht-cinema.com) and Shinjuku Musashinokan (3-27-10 Shinjuku; http://shinjuku. musashino-k.jp) … It is pretty safe to say few have seen a film like Ukrainian indie The Tribe. Set in a boarding school for adolescent deaf students, the dialogue is completely in sign language, with no subtitles. The no-holds-barred visual storytelling about the new kid in school being drawn into a world of organized crime and falling for the classmate he is assigned to pimp is a unique, challenging viewing experience. On from April 18 at Cinema Qualite (3-37-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku; http://qualite.musashino-k. jp) and Eurospace in Shibuya (1-5 Maruyamacho, Shibuyaku; www.eurospace.co.jp) … Japan lost a legend when actor Ken Takakura died last November. Shin-Bungeiza in Ikebukuro (3F, 1-43-5 Higashi-Ikebukuro Toshima-ku; www.shin-bungeiza.com) pays tribute April 19-May 5, with 30 films, which, unfortunately, are not subtitled, but many are presented in new 35mm prints. Kevin Mcgue

agenda

WATCH LIST

hot tickets

JUN 10-11 Pentatonix

American a cappella five-piece group, who rose to fame on YouTube with their all-vocal rendition of Daft Punk hits, now touring the world. Jun 10-11, 7pm. ¥7,500. Zepp Divercity Tokyo. Daiba. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://j.mp/pentatonix2015 Tickets on sale Apr 18

Concerts POPULAR Davina Robinson

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 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 The Piano Guys

American musical group who gained popularity through YouTube, where they posted piano and cello renditions of popular songs and classical music. Apr 22, 7pm. ¥7,5608,640. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. http://j.mp/ thepianoguys2015 Peace

English indie rock quartet who began to receive critical acclaim in early 2012 from publications such as The Guardian and NME, who compared them to The Maccabees, Foals, Wu Lyf, and Vampire Weekend. Apr 22, 7pm. ¥5,000. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/peace2015

JUL 18-AUG 30 Mega Dinosaur Exhibition

Featuring the restored skeleton of the Turiasaurus found in Spain, believed to be the largest dinosaur ever found in Europe. Jul 18-Aug 30, 9:30am5pm. ¥800-1,600 (adv)/ ¥1,000-2,000 (door). Makuhari Messe. KaihinMakuhari. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://mega2015.jp Tickets on sale now

The Big Nothing: Musik Musica

An event fusioning art, performance, space design, and live music. Apr 25, 8:30-11pm. ¥1,500. Aube. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-2896. http://j.mp/nothingmusica2015 European Rock Fes

Featuring The Flower Kings, The Pineapple Thief, Atoll, and others. Apr 26, 4pm. ¥12,500. Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Yurakucho. Tel: 050-5533-0888. http://j.mp/ eurorockfes2015 Equilibrium

German folk metal band combining elements of folk music, black metal, and symphonic metal, with various other influences. Apr 25-26, 6pm. ¥5,500. The Doors. Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5350-5800. http://equilibrium-metal.net/en/ Fu-Ching-Gido Debut Album Release Party

Tuba and drums gypsy rock band with support from vaudevillian charmer Baron. Apr 26, 6:30-10:30pm. ¥2,500 (adv)/¥3,000 (door). Shibuya Gee-ge. Shibuya. Tel: 03-6416-3468. http://fu-ching-gido.com Opeth

Swedish heavy metal band who incorporate progressive, folk, blues, classical, and jazz influences into their usually lengthy compositions. Apr 30, 7pm. ¥7,500. Ex Theater Roppongi. Roppongi or Nogizaka. Tel: 03-6406-2222. http://j.mp/opeth2015

Vandenberg’s Moonkings

Band created by Adrian Vandenberg, a Dutch rocker best known as former guitarist of Whitesnake. Apr 23, 7pm. ¥7,500. Liquidroom. Ebisu. Tel: 03-5464-0800. http://j.mp/moonkings2015 Blossoms

Mosaic five-piece band whose genre is ethereal nostalgic sonance. Apr 23, 7pm. ¥5,000. Astro Hall. Meiji-Jingumae. Tel: 03-3402-3089. http://j.mp/blossoms2015 Kitty, Daisy & Lewis

Three-piece band, comprising the siblings of the Durham family, whose music is heavily influenced by everything from R&B, swing, and jump blues, to country, Hawaiian, and rock ‘n’ roll. Apr 24, 7:30pm. ¥6,000. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/ kittydaisylewis2015

AUG 4-5 SEP 2 Disney in Concert: Alice in Maroon 5 Wonderland

Watch Tim Burton’s Alice on the big screen accompanied by live music performed by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. Aug 4-5, 7pm. ¥6,5008,500. Tokyo International Forum Hall A. Yurakucho. http://j.mp/ disneyinconcert2015alice Tickets on sale from Apr 25

Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/ doheny2015 Electric Zoo Beach

EDM festival featuring Steve Aoki, Knife Party, R3hab, and others. May 6, 1pm. ¥11,00022,000. Makuhari Kaihin Park. Kaihinmakuhari. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://electriczoo.jp The Haunted

Swedish metal band from Gothenburg formed in 1996 consisting of Adrian Erlandsson, Jonas Björler, Marco Arco, Jensen, and Ola Englund. May 11, 7pm. ¥6,500. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. http://j.mp/haunted2015

South Korean alternative hip-hop group known for combining different styles of hip hop, along with different musical genres. May 3, 6pm. ¥6,800. Yokohama Bay Hall. Motomachi-Chūkagai. Tel: 045-624-3900. http://j.mp/epik2015 Sheena Easton

Grammy-winning Scottish star of music, film, and stage, whose baby takes the morning train. May 2, 6 & 9pm; May 4, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥7,500-9,500. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. http://j.mp/easton2015 Ned Doheny

American singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose music defies exact categorization, being variously described as pop, funk, jazz, and AOR. May 5, 4:30pm. ¥6,800-8,800. Billboard Live. Roppongi.

Adam Levine-fronted soul-pop sextet brings their catchy repertoire of hits to Tokyo, reminding Japanese fans that they will be loved. Sep 2, 7pm. ¥12,500-25,000. Yokohama Arena. Shin-Yokohama. Tel: 0570-00-3337. http:// j.mp/maroon52015 Tickets on sale May 2

Roy Haynes

American jazz drummer Haynes’s 90th birthday celebration. May 16-17, 5 & 8pm; May 18, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. http://j.mp/haynes2015

Dave Koz featuring Javier Colon

American smooth jazz saxophonist Koz with acoustic soul singersongwriter and musician Colon. May 1, 7 & 9:30pm; May 2-4, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel:03-54850088. http://j.mp/koz2015 Orquesta de La Luz

JAZZ/WORLD

The Funky Meters

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 Scottish-born saxophone player whose solo career took off with his remake of Percy Sledge’s “When a Man Loves a Woman.” Apr 21-23, 6:30 & 9pm. ¥7,5009,500. Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/ elliot2015

Japanese salsa band who sings in Spanish, and is led by vocalist Nora. May 6, 4:30pm. ¥6,000-8,000. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/laluz2015 American funk band who performed and recorded their own music from the late 1960s until 1977. May 9, 6 & 9pm; May 10, 4:30 & 7:30pm. ¥7,200-9,200. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/meters2015 Kat Edmonson

American singer-songwriter who, after years as a singer in the local club scene, released her debut album Take to the Sky in 2009. May 9-10, 5 & 8pm. ¥8,000. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ edmonson2015 Rasmus Faber with Frida

Swedish pianist, DJ, remixer, and composer. May 11, 7pm. ¥7,000-9,000. Billboard Live. Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. http://j.mp/faber2015

Hans Dulfer

Dutch jazz musician who plays tenor saxophone, and father to fellow saxophonist Candy Dulfer. Apr 22-24, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥8,500. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. http://j.mp/dulfer2015 Antibalas

Brooklyn-based afrobeat band that is modeled after Fela Kuti’s Africa 70 band and Eddie Palmieri’s Harlem River Drive Orchestra. Apr 26, 5 & 8pm; Apr 27-28, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,000. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ antibalas2015

333 koinobori, or colorful carp-shaped streamers will be on display in celebration of Children’s Day on May 5. Until May 6, all day (illumination 5:30-11pm). Free. Tokyo Tower. Akabanebashi. http://j.mp/towerkoi2015

Jazz pianist Calderazzo’s trio with Donald Edwards (drums) and Orlando LeFleming (bass) that has developed into one of the most adventurous outfits in jazz. Apr 28 & 30, 6:30 & 9pm; Apr 29, 5 & 8pm. ¥7,000-9,000. Cotton Club. Tokyo. Tel: 03-3215-1555. http://j.mp/calderazzo2015

Featuring Austrian death black metal band Belphegor and symphonic/extreme metal band White Empress. May 12, 7pm. ¥6,800. Club Quattro. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://j.mp/rockofchaos2015

Herb Alpert and Lani Hall

UNTIL MAY 6 Tokyo Tower Koinobori

Joey Calderazzo Trio

Rock of Chaos

Richard Elliot Epik High

for free

Avishai Cohen Trio

Trio led by Israeli jazz bassist Cohen with Daniel Dor on drums and Nitai Hershkovits on the piano. May 14-15, 7 & 9:30pm. ¥7,800. Blue Note Tokyo. Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. http://j.mp/ avishaicohen2015 Caro Emerald

Dutch pop and jazz singer whose debut album Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor set a new all-time Dutch chart record. May 18, 7:30pm. ¥8,500-9,500. Akasaka Blitz. Akasaka. http://j.mp/ emerald2015

Blue Mountain Boys

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

03-5353-9999. www.operacity. jp/en/. May 23, 2pm. ¥5,900. Yokohama Minato Mirai Hall. Minatomirai. Tel: 045-6822020. http://meturl.com/ minatomiraihall

Clubbing FRIDAY 17

APR 17 (FRI)-29 (WED)

CLASSICAL Pipe Organ Concert

Enjoy classical and contemporary music. Apr 19, 3-4:30pm. ¥1,500. St. Alban’s Anglican Episcopal Church. Kamiyacho or Roppongi. Tel: 03-3431-8534. www.saintalbans.jp Buzz Five Concert 018

Japanese brass quintet composed of former classmates of Tokyo University of the Arts. Apr 20, 7pm. ¥2,000-3,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-2111. http://j.mp/buzzfive2015

All mix/electro/house/ hip-hop/R&B. From 10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,500 w/1d. Bring this copy of Metropolis and get entry discount: (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/1d. Valid until end of May. Guest artists: Apr 24: DJ Kaori. Apr 29: DJ Daishi Dance and more on other days. 4F-6F Dr. Jeekahn's, 2-4 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-3464-0703. Shibuya. www.atom-tokyo.com

New Zuerich Orchestra

Conducted by Martin Studer with performances of Rodrigo’s “Concierto Pastoral,” Doppler’s “Rigoletto Fantaisie, op.38,” and more. Apr 21, 7pm. ¥4,000-8,000. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j.mp/newzuerich2015 Game Symphony Japan Concert

Conducted by Kenichi Shimura, and performed by Nobuo Uematsu, Tokyo Chamber Orchestra, Tokyo Philharmonic Chorus, and others. May 1, 7pm. ¥6,500-10,000. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. www.suntory. com/culture-sports/suntoryhall

Microcosmos

Wild Card. Hip-hop: DJs Yanatake, Deflo, etc. From 12am. (m)¥2,000, (f)free. 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

Roundhouse. House: DJs Marshall Jefferson, Remi, etc. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com

NHK Symphony Orchestra

Sound Museum Vision

Conducted by Vahan Mardirossian with pieces by Mozart, Beethoven, and others. May 4, 2:30pm. ¥3,3007,300. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-2111. www.t-bunka.jp/en/

Juice. Hip-hop: DJs Zeebra, Hazime, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥3,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-57282824. www.vision-tokyo.com

Vienna Boys’ Choir

One of the best known boys’ choirs in the world presents the Bruckner touring choir. May 5, 2pm. ¥1,500-7,000. Suntory Hall. Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 0570-55-0017. http://j. mp/viennaboys2015suntory. May 22, 1:30pm. ¥5,800. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel:

Shibuya Mixx. EDM: DJs Dantz, Daijiro, etc. From 10pm. (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/2d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54288692. www.t2-shibuya.com Ageha

Party Up. EDM, Top 40: DJs Fumi Yeah, Yu-Ki, etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,000. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-55342525. www.ageha.com

The Room

The New Matrix Bar

Wah Wah. Rare groove: DJs Kuroda, Ryuhei, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,500 w/1d. Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

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

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

Air

Ucess the Lounge

The Room

80. ‘80s music: DJs Ken-Bo, Ohishi, etc. From 11pm. ¥2,000 w/1 d. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-6807-1588. www.ucess.jp

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

Womb

Fantastic Dance. EDM, house: DJs Daishi Dance, Verbal, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

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

SATURDAY 18

Sushi. House, electro: DJ Reset and more. From 10pm. ¥3,000. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com

Ucess the Lounge Microcosmos

City Hunter. Hip-hop: DJs Alamaki, Keita, etc. From 12am. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-57845496. www.microcosmostokyo.com 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 The Room

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

Disco Jockey. Disco, house: DJs Jin, Yan, etc. From 10pm. ¥2,000 w/1 d. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-68071588. www.ucess.jp Ageha

Fever. Hip-hop: DJs Kango, Sn-Z, etc. From 11pm. (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,500. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-5534-2525. www.ageha.com Club Asia

Steam Party in Tokyo. House, techno: DJs Kyoko, Hayashi, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,000. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www.clubasia.co.jp Womb

Air

Cats. House, techno: DJs Gonno, Kawasaki, etc. Live: Kink. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-3384. www.air-tokyo.com

S-Sense. Hip-hop: DJs Lakim, The Whooligan, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

Seeds. Techno, house: DJs Mike Shannon, Sodeyama, etc. Live: Akufen. From 10pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5728-2824. www.vision-tokyo.com T2

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

Spring Special. Techno, progressive: DJs Stephan Bodzin, D-Nox & Beckers, etc. From 11pm. ¥4,000. Shinkiba. Tel: 03-55342525. www.ageha.com

Joy Orbison & Will Bankhead. Dance music: DJs Joy Orbison, Will Bankhead, etc. From 11:30pm. ¥3,500. Daikanyama. Tel: 03-54598630. www.unit-tokyo.com

Dance La Chauve-souris

Combining elements from musicals and revues, this humorous and charming repertoire is fully enjoyable for those not usually accustomed to ballet performances. Apr 21 & 23, 7pm; Apr 25, 1 & 6pm; Apr 26, 2pm. ¥3,240-10,800. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://j.mp/lachauvesouris2015 Sleeping Beauty

Club Asia

Rendezvous. R&B, disco: DJs Taiki, Master Key, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5458-2551. www.clubasia.co.jp Ucess the Lounge

Golly Gosh. Bass music, grime: DJs A taut Line, Void Crew, etc. ¥2,000 w/1 d. Meiji-jingumae. Tel: 03-6807-1588. www.ucess.jp Womb

Session. EDM, house: DJs Joseph Capriati, Ohnishi, etc. From 11pm. ¥3,500. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp FRIDAY 24

Performed by the Matsuyama Ballet Company with music by the Tokyo New Philharmonic Orchestra. May 3-4, 3:30pm. ¥4,500-13,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9111. http://j.mp/ matsuyamabeauty2015

Stage Voca People

Israel-based ensemble performing vocal theater that combines a cappella and beat boxing to reproduce the sounds of an entire orchestra. Apr 14-26, various times. ¥5,200-8,300. The Galaxy Theatre. Tennouzu Isle. Tel: 03-5769-0011. http://hpot.jp/ vocapeople/english/

Microcosmos

Kagula Birthday Bash. Bass, trap: DJs Kagula, Blue Cosmic Monkey, etc. From 12am. ¥2,000 w/1d. Shibuya. Tel: 03-5784-5496. www. microcosmos-tokyo.com

Tact/Festival 2015

Showcasing overseas stage performances mainly from France, including Claire Ruffin’s L’insomnante, José Montalvo’s Asa Nisi Masa, and Corpus’ Les moutons. May 3-6, various times. ¥500-2,500. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-5391-2111. www.geigeki.jp Tokyo Dageki Dan

Japanese taiko performing group’s 20th anniversary performance. May 9, 1pm. ¥3,500-5,000. Setagaya Public Theater. Sangenjaya. http://j.mp/dagekidan2015 La Traviata

Verdi’s mid-period masterwork which tells the story of the pure love of a courtesan, Violetta, and her sad end, against a backdrop of Parisian splendor and sophistication. With staging produced by Vincent Boussard, who is famous for his use of color and sophisticated staging. May 10, 13, 16, 23 & 26, 2pm; May 19, 7pm. ¥5,400-27,000. New National Theatre Tokyo. Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. http://j.mp/latraviata2015

TURN YOUR PASSION FOR JAPAN INTO A CAREER YOU’LL LOVE • Join our team as a Japan Sales Specialist • Be part of a growing, award winning travel company

Exhibitions

• Enjoy extensive training in the UK and abroad

ENDING SOON

• Receive a highly competitive salary

Happy at Hundred

Featuring works by German photographer Karsten Thormaehlen, of 100-year-old men and women. Until Apr 18, 10am-5pm. Free. Toranomon Hills. Toranomon. Tel: 03-6406-6665. http://toranomonhills.com/en

• Base yourself in our UK offices

Find out more about becoming an Audley Country Specialist at www.audleytravel.com/careers

Love Birds Daikanyama Unit

Sound Museum Vision

times. ¥4,000-20,000. Akasaka Blitz. Akasaka. http://j.mp/mrshow2015

Mr. Show

A show only for women, be entertained at Korean revue “Mr. Show” where attractive men perform for your viewing pleasure. Apr 22-26, various

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: 03-62339836. http://j.mp/lovebirds2015 TDC Exhibition

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

An exploration of our conceptions, perceptions, and experiences. Until Apr 28, 10am-7pm, closed Sat, Sun & hols. Free. UltraSuperNew Gallery. Harajuku or Kitasando. www.joelplunkettart. com 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 ONGOING 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

WE BUY AND SELL METALS & JEWELRY!

Friday, April 24 7pm - 1am Free entry

インターナショナルパーティー･入場無料

Loja de Ouro

JapanTravel .com

10:00-18:30 / Closed Sundays and Mondays

http://kinnomise-chugai.jp/

JAPANESE PROFICIENCY TEST N1, N2, N3, N4 ST

* One month intensive * 2 & 3 days a week * Private & Corporate * Business Japanese

www.evergreen.gr.jp YUTENJI 03-3713-4958 JIYUGAOKA 03-3723-4785

UDEN VISA T

Registr ati July 20 on for 15 term NOW O PEN!

Free trial lesson for groups info@evergreen.gr.jp

03-3713-4958

WADA Legal & Administrative Office We can help you with: • Visa & Immigration Procedures • Mixed Marriage, Naturalisation and Refugee Status • Establishing a Company & Branch Office • Accounting Services, Acquiring Business Licences • Preparation/Translation of Legal & Business Documents • Other Legal & Business Matters

Must have a strong understanding of:

✓ HTML/CSS/Javascript ✓ Cross-browser compatibility ✓ jQuery and APIs

To apply, send letter of introduction, CV, and relevant samples to

info@japantravel.com

Kinnomise

0120-5610-68

D A I LY CO N V E R S AT I O N A N D B U S I N E S S J A PA N E S E

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Due to the high volume of correspondence, we regret that we can't respond to every inquiry. No calls, please.

Ishikawacho station

EVERGREEN LANGUAGE SCHOOL

Join us in introducing Japan to the world! Japan Travel is seeking a talented

✓ UI Design ✓ Web standards ✓ Multiple frameworks

new

169,811

今年は"にほんごをもの"にする

DUBLINERS’ SHIBUYA

meturl.com/apr15

items: ¥

Since 1949

13 Anniversary at

MORE INFO:

63,300－

e price of

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

Celebrate Dubliners’ th

2F, Dogenzaka Center Bldg. 2-29-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-5459-1736 www.dubliners.jp

Referenc

・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.

金のみせ

PINT BEERS FROM ¥500 COCKTAILS FROM ¥700 GLASS WINE FROM ¥550

4/2 Valu

1 toz: ¥1

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

J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE Reasonable prices. Free first time consultation We can support you with: Visa and immigration Intellectual property rights (Patent, trademark, copyrights) Establishing a Company & Branch office

May 2015 Membership Fee

Other Legal & Business matters Hiroshi Oogai,

Patent attorney Immigration lawyer

www.j-star.jp

Grand Prince Hotel Akasaka

Exit 4, Nagatacho stn Supreme Court

Aoyama Ave Akasaka Mitsuke stn

Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

National Diet Library

608 Kitano Arms 16-15, Hirakawa-cho, 2-Chome, Chiyoda-ku ,Tokyo, 102-0093

Tel: 03-5216-6890 Fax: 03-5216-6891 Email: hiroshioogai@j-star.jp 26

Imperial Palace

Gabriel Orozco: Inner Cycles

Measuring: This much, that much, how much?

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

This exhibition aims to illustrate the types of units that are used to measure a variety of things and phenomena, and to give them a sense of familiarity that they may not already have. Until May 31, 10am-8pm, closed Tue. ¥500-1,000. 21_21 Design Sight. Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3475-2121. http://j.mp/ measuring2015

Irises and Red and White Plum Blossoms: The Secret of Kōrin’s Design

Showcasing works by Ogata Kōrin, a Japanese painter of the Rinpa school who developed an original and distinctive style characterized by a bold impressionism with an absolute disregard for naturalism and the usual conventions. Apr 18-May 17, 10am-5pm, closed Mon. ¥1,000-1,200. Nezu Museum. Omotesando. Tel: 03-34002536. http://j.mp/korin2015 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 Osaka Expo ’70 Design Project

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 in the years of spectacular economic growth. This exhibition presents a complete picture of the design work for the 1970 Expo. Until May 17, 10am-5pm (until 8pm on Fri). ¥130-430 (free admission on Apr 5 & May 3). The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Takebashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://j.mp/ osakaexpo2015 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 Hiroshige and Kiyochika

Showcasing works by Utagawa Hiroshige, known as the last great master of the ukiyo-e tradition, and Kobayashi Kiyochika, an ukiyo-e artist of the Meiji period in commemoration of the 100th year since his death. Until May 28, 10:30am-5:30pm, closed Mon. ¥700-1,000. Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art. Harajuku. Tel: 03-3403-0880. http://j.mp/ hiroandkiyo2015

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 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 Great Amazon

Featuring over 400 exhibits and a 4-K theatre experience where you can travel to the Amazon through a 355-inch 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 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

generation in Asia/Oceania whose practices offer keys to engaging with the time of others. Until Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-shirakawa. http://j.mp/timeofothers2015

This exhibition explores human creativity covering two million years, from prehistory to modern times through 100 items from the British Museum’s collection. Apr 18-Jun 28, 9:30am-5:30pm (until 8pm on Fri), closed Mon. ¥800-1,300 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,600 (door). Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Ueno. Tel: 03-3823-6921. http://j.mp/100objects2015 Utrillo and 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 and 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 Sayoko Yamaguchi: The Wearist, Clothed in the Future

This exhibition will trace the career of Yamaguchi, who, as a top model, embodied the mysterious beauty of the East, and conquered the world of fashion during the 1970s and ’80s. Until Jun 28, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. ¥600-1,100. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Kiyosumi-shirakawa. www.mot-art-museum.jp/eng Time of Others

Showcasing works by 18 artists of the younger

Sports

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 Masks: Beauty of the Spirits

By laying bare the true fascination of masks, this exhibition explores its true essence and what it means to us in today’s world, through masterpieces from the Musée du quai Branly in Paris. Apr 25-Jun 30, 10am-6pm, closed the second and fourth Wed of the month. ¥600-1,200 (¥100 discount to those who come wearing designs or patterns inspired by masks or faces). Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum. Meguro. Tel: 03-3443-0201. http://j.mp/ masks2015

Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima

Apr 29, 7pm. ¥1,000-5,300. Nissan Stadium. Kozukue. Tel: 04-5477-5000. www.f-marinos.com/en

Festivals

BASEBALL TRADITIONAL

Naruto Exhibition Yakult Swallows vs. DeNA Baystars

Apr 17-19, 6pm. ¥500-27,500. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp Yomiuri Giants vs. Chunichi Dragons

Apr 28-30, 6pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome. Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en Yakult Swallows vs. Toyo Carp

May 1-3, 6pm. ¥500-27,500. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp Yomiuri Giants vs. Toyo Carp

May 12-14, 6pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome. Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-58009999. www.giants.jp/en

Mt. Takao Annual Spring Festival

Special display of an image of Buddha, a goma fire ritual, and costumed kiddies. Apr 19, 11am. Takao-san Yakuo-in. Takaosanguchi. www.takaosan.or.jp/english/ index.html Meiji Shrine Spring Grand Festival

Bugaku, Noh, and other traditional performances. Apr 29-May 3, various times. Meiji Jingu Shrine. Harajuku. www.meijijingu. or.jp/english/index.html Kurayami Matsuri (Darkness Festival)

Mikoshi are paraded in darkness, while gardeners have booths to sell their wares. Apr 30-May 6, various times. Okunitama Shrine. Fuchu-Honmachi. Tel: 042-362-2130. http://meturl. com/matsurikurayami

Simple Forms: Contemplating Beauty

Yakult Swallows vs. Hanshin Tigers

INTERNATIONAL

This exhibition brings together around 130 “simple forms” from around the world, and across the ages found in nature, primitive art, folk art, and traditional cultures. Apr 25-Jul 5, 10am-10pm (until 5pm on Tue). ¥1,500 (adv)/ ¥600-1,800 (door). Mori Art Museum. Roppongi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. http://j.mp/ simpleforms2015

May 12-14, 6pm. ¥500-27,500. Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium. Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34048999. www.yakult-swallows. co.jp

Cherry Blossom Fair at Tokyo International School

Tokyo Story 2015 The British Museum Exhibition: A History of the World in 100 Objects

Sat), closed Tue. ¥800-1,100 (adv)/ ¥1,000-1,300 (door). Suntory Museum of Art. Roppongi. http://j.mp/ maestrokenzan2015

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. Ochanomizu, Suidōbashi, or Hongō-sanchōme. Tel: 03-5689-5331. http://j.mp/ tokyostory2015 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. ¥1,8002,800. Okada Museum of Art. Kowakidani. Tel: 0460-873931. www.okada-museum. com/en UPCOMING What is Realist Painting?

Exploring the diversity and potential of realist painting through 54 works of landscapes, figures, and more. May 21-Nov 15, 10am-5:30pm, closed Tue. ¥900-1,800. Hoki Museum. Toke. www.hoki-museum. jp/en/ The Maestro of Conception, Kenzan is Here

Born in a cultivated Kyoto family, Kenzan was raised in a context of great artistic refinement. As a potter, he introduced new designs based on painting and literature to the world of ceramics. May 27-Jul 20, 10am-6pm (until 8pm on Fri &

Yomiuri Giants vs. Yakult Swallows

May 15-16, 6pm; May 17, 2pm. ¥300-12,400. Tokyo Dome. Suidōbashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www.giants. jp/en SOCCER FC Tokyo vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima

Apr 18, 4pm. ¥600-6,200 (adv)/ ¥800-6,500 (door). Ajinomoto Stadium. Tobitakyu. Tel: 042-4400555. www.fctokyo.co.jp Yokohama FC vs. V-Varen Nagasaki

Apr 19, 2pm. ¥600-4,700. NHK Mitsuzawa Stadium. Yokohama. Tel: 04-53112016. www.yokohamafc.com FC Tokyo vs. Sagan Tosu

Apr 22, 7pm. ¥600-6,200. Ajinomoto Stadium. Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-24400555. www.fctokyo.co.jp Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Shonan Bellmare

Apr 25, 3pm. ¥1,000-5,300. Nissan Stadium. Kozukue. Tel: 04-5477-5000. www.f-marinos.com/en Tokyo Verdy vs. Thespakusatsu Gunma

Apr 26, 1pm. ¥600-14,500. Ajinomoto Stadium. Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-24400555. www.verdy.co.jp Yokohama FC vs. Tokushima Vortis

Apr 26, 1pm. ¥600-4,700. NHK Mitsuzawa Stadium. Yokohama. Tel: 04-53112016. www.yokohamafc.com Tokyo Verdy vs. Yokohama FC

Apr 29, 1pm. ¥600-14,500. Ajinomoto Stadium. Tobitakyu. Tel: 04-24400555. www.verdy.co.jp/ index.html

International food, games, prizes, arts and crafts, and more. Apr 18, 11am-3pm. Free. Tokyo International School. Mita or Tamachi. Tel: 03-5484-1160. www.tokyois.com 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: 045-2111515. http://greenroom.jp/ english

Forums & Expos Pet Expo

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. KaihinMakuhari. www.pethaku.com Interpets

An event for pet owners and lovers, Interpets is the largest trade fair in the Japanese pet market. Apr 3-5, 10am-5pm. ¥1,500. Tokyo Big Sight. Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-5530-1111. www.interpets.jp/2015/en Plarail Expo

An event where children and parents can enjoy Plarail (a toy train and plastic track system made by Tomy) products together. Apr 29-May 6, 10am-4:30pm. ¥700-900 (adv)/ ¥800-1,000 (door). Makuhari Messe. Kaihin-Makuhari. www.m-messe.co.jp/en/

Comedy New Material Night

Standup, improv, and trying out new stuff. Apr 21, 8-10pm.

Free. Double Tall Cafe. Shibuya. Tel: 03-54674567. http://tokyocomedy. com/new_material_night

Community Charity Run & Walk: DAN DAN RUN 2015

Charity run/walk to help refugees who have fled to Japan. May 17, 9am-1pm. ¥4,000 (10-km run)/¥3,000 (5-km run)/¥3,000 (3-km walk); discounts for children/ groups. Hibiya Park. Hibiya. Tel: 03-3501-6428. http://meturl.com/dandanrun 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 Stitch-n-Bitch

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 Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School

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

Learning Champagne & Sake Seminar

Learn about Champagne and sake, and enjoy a French-style dinner. Apr 25, 7-10:30pm. ¥14,980 +tax (adv). Stellato. Shirokanedai. Tel: 03-34425588. http://meturl.com/ monthlywine

Other Events 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). Until Apr 19, 12-11pm. Various prices. Tokyo Midtown. Roppongi. Tel: 03-3475-3100. www.tokyo-midtown.com/en Manpaku

Food festival with local food, world food, desserts, and more. May 14-Jun 1, 10:30am9pm. ¥400-700 (adv)/ ¥500800 (door). Showa Kinen Park. Tachikawa. Tel: 042-528-1751. http://manpaku.jp Writers’ Bloc, Tokyo: Evening Musings

A celebration of the spoken word. Apr 25, 7:30-9:30pm. Free. Loco Popo. Yotsuya. www.facebook.com/ writersbloctokyo

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

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, MAY 1 ISSUE Deadline: Apr 23, 3pm FRI, MAY 15 ISSUE Deadline: Apr 30, 3pm

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. Thirty-day money-back guarantee. Quick, easy application; convenient payment options. Enroll today! info@earthhealthcare.jp w w w.ear thhealthcare.jp 078-351-7300 TO ADVERTISE IN METROPOLIS, JA PA N ’ S N O.1 E N G LI S H M AGA ZI N E , log on at w w w. metropolis.co.jp/classifieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@metropolisjapan. com.

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

Free consultation available in English, Español and Japanese. Tel: 03-6264-8446 np@nippashi.com http://nippashi.com

1 AT YOUR SERVICE

G E N E R A L D E N T I S T R Y. A merican dental school graduate, 20 years’ experience in hospital dentistry, over 2000 d e ntal im p lant s , n a t i ve English speaker; 3min from JR Harajuku Stn, p a r k i n g a v a i l a b l e. W i l l fill out insurance forms. info@trustdental.jp www.trustdental.jp/english 03-3402-1501

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000

SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY (physical therapy) care in Hiroo. 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 ¥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

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-¥4400. Fi r s t- t i m e d i s co u n t ¥1 0 0 0. http://oazo.biz/top 03-55457797 oazo7797@yahoo.co.jp

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

2.1 GUESTHOUSE

1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES

RENTAL APARTMENTS, HOUSES, CONDOS AND S T U D I O S i n Yo ko h a m a , Kawasaki, Tokyo, and near US military bases. English speaking staff will guide you through the renting process. For a stress-free search, contact Rent Life. 045-470-3214 www. rent-yokohama.com/english e-yokohama@r-life.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

I M M I G R AT I O N L A W Y E R AT NIPPASHI OFFICE supports 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.

English and Japanese. Arrgh! It's hard to learn J. Every day I study—it makes my head spin! London guy wants to meet someone for drinks after work/study where we can mix J and E. Basic E ok. whatmakes.udance@gmail.com English and Japanese. Hi, my name is Hiroki. I'm 27, Japanese. I'd like to learn E because I'm going to work in San Francisco this summer. In exchange, I can teach you J. Let's exchange languages! hirokim02@gmail.com

English and Japanese. Hello. I'm a Japanese female seeking a language exchange partner. We can meet up around the Tokyo area and talk using both languages. Feel free to contact me. psyduck054@aol.jp English and Japanese. Hello! I am a nonsmoking Japanese female. I was in Canada for two years, however my English is not great and I keep forgetting it. I'd prefer a female partner because I'm shy. Thanks! maplebees@gmail.com English and Japanese. Hi, I'm Eri. I'm a native Japanese speaker. I was born in Tokyo and grew up there, too. I'm 26. I'm a sales assistant at a printing company. ex-jmw0-27@ezweb.ne.jp English and Japanese. I'm Shuto, 24, seeking someone who wants to learn J. I want to learn to speak E. I manage a store. Please mail me if you'd like to learn J. shu-to.0529@i.softbank.jp English and Japanese. Hi! I'm a Japanese living in Tokyo. I'm seeking a language exchange partner who can teach E. In exchange, I'll teach you J. I'm outgoing, and have lots of hobbies (like music, travel, movies, etc.). Let's learn and have fun! hirokim02@gmail.com English and Japanese. Seeking a serious language exchange partner, no romance. I'm a JF, 30. I'd like to meet weekdays after work. If you're interested in a serious exchange, let's give it a try. kotetsukunwanko@excite.co.jp

2.4 HOUSE SHARE ROOM IN APARTME NT IN YA M AT O . S e e k i n g s o m e o n e , preferably female, to share a p a r t m e n t i n Ya m a t o - s h i , Kanagawa-ken, on Sotetsu/ Odakyu Line ¥35,000/m. fikori@ yahoo.com

2.6 BUY/SELL PREMISES

HOUSE FOR SALE IN USAMI, 2LK, t wo toilets, wood stove, large su n d e ck , l o ck u p g ar a g e, t wo floors (35sqm each), freehold land, overlooking Usami Bay surf beach ¥4.5 million. Negotiable. Private sale by owner. fletcher@snow.ocn. ne.jp 090-9819-1558

3 EDUCATION 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. Open-minded Japanese female, 23-40, sought for language exchange and socializing. Serious only. Call Bobby at 090-55896864 or 080-8118-4073 or email mybaby-precious@docomo.ne.jp.

English and Japanese. Japanese, 22, seeking someone who wants to learn J and teach me E. I'm not a professional teacher. Prefer meeting at a cafe or anywhere for conversation. How about Shibuya? sayaka_htky_1@yahoo.co.jp

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

2 FIND A PLACE

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE

English and Japanese. JF seeks an exchange partner in the daytime on weekdays at Kawasaki Stn. tome.harukasoushi@ezweb.ne.jp French and Japanese. Frenchman, 31, living in Yokohama, working in Tokyo. I would like to improve my Japanese and can help you with your French in return. Mostly available on weekdays after work. See you soon. joji.kikukawa.jp@ gmail.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 Mandarin and English. British expat living in Tokyo. I want to speak some basic Mand. I know nothing, so I need someone who can speak E and teach me the basics. whatmakes.udance@gmail.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

3.9 TEACH ME! T R A N S L AT I O N F O R E N G L I 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 Teach me English in exchange for karate. Do you want to learn real karate? I can teach you one of the major styles of traditional Japanese karate. We can exchange for your English lesson. gnbkaijpn@gmail.com

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Cabinet, teak, large, for TVs, in very good condition ¥29,000. Firm. Minato-ku. mmcaproni2010@yahoo.co.jp Sofa, Italian, sits three, black leather, uniquely crafted bowed sides ¥50,000. W/delivery within Tokyo ¥60,000. Okubo. sebre@mac.com Stand, teak, for T V or book s (L125xW41.5xH75cm) ¥5500. paola@ yogasan.net 03-6751-1664

4.2 APPLIANCES Heater, Koizumi KCH-0840/P, almost new, in very good condition. Cash only. Pick up Aoyama-Itchome. Photos available. p.wisetwongsa@hotmail.de 080-4863-0505 Laminator, w/pouch film ¥4000. tsuneokobayashi@hotmail.com

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Plant pots, air humidifier, photo frame, Japanese study books. Cheap. Details available. yannu@ hotmail.com Sayonara sale! Dance Dance Revolution kit, w/DVD ¥1000. iPad Air 16GB, Wi-Fi, silver, hardly used ¥35,000. Firm. moonquake07@yahoo.co.jp

4.6 FOR KIDS Karate gi and belt, for kids 3-12 years old ¥300+. gnbkaijpn@gmail. com Potty-training seat, green, frogsh ap e d, c u shio n e d, w / h an dle s, never used ¥2000. Wooden walker (H51xW35.5xD34.5cm), w/various toys attached ¥5000. Pick up Keio/JR Hashimoto Stn or nearby. chinami35@ yahoo.co.jp Windbreaker, Puma, size 130cm, black, in good condition ¥1000. Gloves, cap and muffler. Cheap. Pick up or chakubarai. Photos available. housetsu@gmail.com

4.7 FOR FREE Fridge, National NR-B 17 1J-R (480x584x1293mm); table, easy to assemble. Near Nezu Stn, Chiyoda L i n e . m s a . j a p a n @ h o t m a i l .c o m 090-9109-5326 Washer, LG, drum-style, old but still does the job, hot water function does not work. Pick up only Sangenjaya. japanjohan@ yahoo.co.jp

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS

3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS T O U N D E R S TA N D N AT U R A L JAPANESE CONVERSATION. Free podcast for listening practice. Still don't understand what native Japanese speakers are saying? Check the free Japanese podcast to enhance your listening comprehension! www.facebook. com/JapaneseListeningAdvanced torachan786@gmail.com

Tr i a l l e s s o n , i n c l u d i n g a l l materials ¥4000. No Japanese necessary. Certification, diploma can be earned. Three classroom locations in Tokyo. Website: w w w.atelier-soka. com/english/index.html Email: smile@mika-otani.com

5.4 BOOKS/CD/DVD Cookbook, Nigel Slater's "The 30-Minute Cook," UK version, paperback, brandnew ¥3000. Pick up Hashimoto Stn. chinami35@yahoo.co.jp

IKEBANA (JAPANESE TRADITIONAL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT) is a powerful means of self-expression.

Movies, Italian, 50 available, w/ Japanese subtitles ¥20,000/all. Not for sale individually. tocco_di_classe@ hotmail.com

The majority of classified ads have moved online! classifieds.metropolis.co.jp 6 VEHICLES 6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Benz C180 Wagon Kompressor, '05, Avantgarde limited edition, black, ETC, leather seats, Exon lights, aluminum wheel, 120,000km, shaken until May '16, all taxes paid ¥500,000. Firm. No dealers or auction sites. alinjap@yahoo.com

6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Bikes, two available, in good condition: mountain bike ¥8000. Marukin shopping bike ¥4000. ¥10,000/both. spa179@ hotmail.com 090-3804-4043 Electric bike, bought July '14 in Akihabara, almost as new, w/receipt, manual and charger ¥50,000. msa. japan@hotmail.com 09091095326 Mamachari, three-speed, durable, two y/o, in excellent condition ¥8000. Can deliver up to four stations from Ueno. msa.japan@hotmail.com 09091095326 Trailer, Adventure A1, for up to two children, seat folds for transporting cargo, max load 36kg, folds flat with quick-release wheels, 10.8kg, as new, hardly used ¥20,000. Can ship. morrison_ brian@yahoo.com 080-3474-0313

7 GENERAL 7.1 PHONES Mobile phone, prepaid ¥3500. gnbkaijpn@gmail.com

Please, if interested, let us come to an agreement. samueladonkor@gmail. com 090-6152-6274

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 p s ych o t h e r a py by a cc re d i te d Western-trained professionals, a CIGNA International Provider (03 - 4550 -1146). TELL website: w w w.telljp.com. Follow us o n F a c e b o o k a n d Tw i t t e r @ TokyoLifeLine.

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

7.2 FASHION Clothes, men's: brown coat ¥1000. Long-sleeved, LL Bean, size L, gray ¥300. Raincoat, Cecilene, size M, ivory ¥600. Pick up or chakubarai. Photo available. housetsu@gmail.com Sneakers. Geox fashion sneakers, size US 11/EU 44, new, unopened. New $150. Make an offer in yen. hrmanu@gmail.com

7.3 MISCELLANEOUS File folders, B1, three available ¥750/ all. Pick up or chakubarai. Photo available. housetsu@gmail.com Sink unit, Noritz, new, hardly used ¥30,000. successinjapan@gmail.com 090-7704-8687

7.4 ITEMS WANTED Benz C class wagon, '08-'10 model, black or white. No dealers or auction guys. alinjap@yahoo.com

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE Monitor, widescreen ¥2000. gnbkaijpn@ gmail.com

10 HELP! 10.1 HELP ME F R E E E N G LI S H -TO -JA PA N E S E TR A N S L ATI O N . Wo rk in g towards becoming a translator and need prac tice with simple d o c u m e n t s . H ave ex p e r i e n ce working in law office, accounting, HR, advertising and sales. michiane256@gmail.com Climate expert needed. Need a guest speaker to appear on a YouTube streaming show. assassin.wolves.films@ gmail.com

WEST PAPUA: ONE SOUL, ONE PEOPLE . Fif t y- one year s 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 H I V Pe e r Su p p o r t g ro u p 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

10.3 LOST FRIENDS Seeking Mindy. Is Mindy Mack, a petite blonde teaching assistant from LA, still in Tokyo? Any info appreciated. m106819151-tsky@yahoo.com

11 MESSAGES

HAPPY 38TH BIRTHDAY, YOTCH! Thank you for always being with me. Since you became my husband, my life has gotten so much easier and happier. I hope you stay healthy and that I die before you do. With love, Akane

12 SOCIAL SCENE 12.1 LET’S PARTY

J A PA N I N T E R N AT I O N A L PARTY - SPRING FESTIVAL. Sat, Apr 25, 6:30-9pm, Bar Quest (Roppongi). Japan’s biggest international party. 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: Apr 18 and May 2. Shibuya: Apr 25 and May 9. www.leafparty.com

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS 13.1 SPORTS

11.1 PERSONAL MESSAGES

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

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.

Sponsorship. Ten years’ experience in cafe/bar work, including working at international hotels. I’d like to open a cafe/bar, but need sponsorship. Individuals and companies are welcome.

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

MiniDV HDV tape reader. Does anyone have a camera or deck with which I could read and capture MiniDV HDV tapes? assassin.wolves.films@gmail.com

11.2 CUPID'S MESSAGES

A L L - N AT I O N A L I T Y TO U C H F O OT B A L L . N o n - c o n t a c t t a g rugby (OZ tag) and Rugby League players. We play ever y Sat from 10am in Tatsumi. M/F and beginners welcome! Good exercise and fun! M any other activities, such as BBQs and drinking parties! Email for details. tokyorugbyleague@hotmail.com http://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 g by Le a g u e of f icia l g am e s 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 am e an 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 sp or t from S cotland . Using 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 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 Baseball player. Japan Amateur Baseball team is seeking players for baseball games and practices. We play every Sat and Sun in Yokohama City. Everyone welcome. Email for details. starbay5555@yahoo.co.jp Don’s Half-Fast Flash-Mob Weekend Urban Bicycle Rides. halffastcycling@ hotmail.com 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

AMERICAN FOOTBALL. N ihon Unis ys B ulls , 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 ove r 6 0% . Pl e ase co nt ac t fo r tryout info and send your profile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail. co m h t t p: // w w w.u n i s y s .co. j p/ football

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

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 Tennis in central Tokyo. Active group of tennis friends in central Tokyo welcomes serious/motivated new players. We play on weekday evenings and weekends. Different levels (sorry, no beginners), fun training sessions and games with great people from all over. tennis. tokyo@yahoo.fr Volleyball Club Intervoll. Japanese and foreign volleyball players gather in Takadanobaba to enjoy playing. Have volleyball experience and want to play 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

weekends. Subscribe to mailing list for latest details. tokyoweekenders@ gmail.com http://tokyoweekenders. jimdo.com

13.3 ARTS Love Shakespeare? Amateur group in Tokyo, meeting once/month to celebrate our love of the Bard. Come to read, or just to listen. All nationalities welcome, no experience necessary! rchrd_schwartz@ yahoo.com http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/Shakespeare-sama

13.4 MUSIC A capella/singers. I want to meet people who sing well, can harmonize, are interested in a capella, and can meet once/month in Tokyo. Doo wop, Nylons. I'm a baritone-tenor, but can sing bass vox-perc, too! alansmollen@gmail.com Bassist wanted around Yokohama. We mainly play rock music and have rehearsals in Shin-Yokohama. Any kind of player is welcome, so feel free to contact us. m_a_b1998@yahoo.co.jp Female singer wanted. I'm a drummer and I can write songs on the piano. I want to make a friend and I want a great singer! If you think you are a good singer, please email me. kosuke1016@hotmail.com

Seeking a capella singer and voice percussionist. We're two a capella singers, with great singing experience, living in Tokyo, seeking alto, tenor and voice percussionist. Rehearsals in Shinjuku and Shibuya. We'll start with Pentatonix songs. konpeiioi@ yahoo.co.jp Singer sought to make a new duo. Japanese male guitarist in the Tokyo area. Let's play and make music together! Beginners welcome. I like pop/rock. riku_ hiroxx@hotmail.com

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT 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 Tokyo ET contact group. Join us beneath the stars as we endeavor to make contact with ET visitors and their craft. Our next ET contact event will be on Apr 18/19 on Mount Mitake, Tokyo. nakanosky@gmail.com www. meetup.com/Tokyo-ET-Contact-Group/ events/193113322/ 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 Tabletop roleplaying games. I'm looking to form a group of Englishs p e a k i n g t a b l e to p r o l e p l a y i n g gamers to meet on Sun or every other Sun in Tokyo. No experience necessary. Contact me if interested. super64advance@yahoo.com Tokyo Extreme Weekenders. For those who like to escape into nature to enjoy four seasons of adventure and activities with like-minded people, our purpose is to have fun and fulfilling

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 Evening Buddhism study circle. Theories of the Lotus Sutra and practical application to life led by Dominick Scarangello, PhD, at Ikuseikan, 3min from Tokyo Metro Nakano-Fujimicho Stn. 1-15-1 Wada, Suginami-ku, Tokyo. Free. ibc-information@memoad.jp http:// www.ibc-buddhism.info/Dominick.html 03-5341-1230 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

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 www.tokyotraders.com

13.9 INTERNATIONAL Intercultural activities. JII (Japan Intercultural Iwnstitute) 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

Many more classified ads online! Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

JOBS

The most exciting tailor in Tokyo

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

- We offer classic and avant-garde garments, shoes and accessories - We speak English, German and Japanese - Designer who studied at GIEVES & HAWKES is of your assistance - We accept credit cards and ship overseas. No reservation required - Suits from ¥80,000, shirts from ¥8,900, plus tax

Central Aoyama 1F, 4-1-3 Minami-aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062 Mon, Tue, Fri 12:00-20:00/Sat, Sun 11:00-20:00/Wed, Thu Closed Tel: 03-6438-9563 Email: info@loudgarden.com www.loudgarden.com | www.facebook.com/loudgarden.tokyo

JOIN US IN INTRODUCING JAPAN TO THE WORLD. S eeking energetic , bilingual individuals with a passion for travel and interest in tourism. We offer excellent career paths and promotion prospects and are an equal-opportunity employer. Our workplace is conveniently located 2min from Roppongi Stn. Positions available include account manager, d e s i g n e r, d e v e l o p e r, p r o j e c t manager. Visit our jobs page for details. To apply, please send your resume to info@japantravel.com. http://en.japantravel.com/jobs 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. WANT TO HELP CREATE METROPOLIS? We’re seeking social media, web, and editorial interns. Great opportunity to gain experience in a multimedia company ! To apply, send intro letter, CV and relevant clips to editor@metropolisjapan.com.

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 American couple seeking Japanese couple for fun times! Inquisitive American couple, mid-30s, seeking Japanese couple for friendship and exploring Tokyo. Please be fit, fun and willing to try new things! 日本語 ok! cook_on_ wheels@yahoo.com Interested in Britain? Professional British guy working near Marunouchi is seeking

To advertise: commercial@metropolisjapan.com

03-4588-2277

STAY IN JAPAN WITH HIGH EARNING POTENTIAL AND VISA. We are seeking highly driven individuals who want to sell vehicles to Americans on US Military bases in Japan. Must be a US citizen. Visa provided, plus health insurance and training. First year income guarantee: $2700/m. Annual potential: $ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 . j klos e @m il i t a ry ca r s . com w w w.militaryautosource.com 82-10-5398-4267 ZEROTTA ADVANCE NEEDS IT ENGINEER IN TSUKIJI. ゼロッタアドバンス株式会社概要：IT業界のベンチャー企業、コンサル・設計・構築・運用までを一貫して対応募集職種：技術系仕事内容：ユーザサポート(英語) 応募資格：日英バイリンガル・基本的なWinPC/サーバスキル勤務地：築地勤務時間：裁量労働制標準労働時間：8時間00分/日給与：月給 25 ～60万円（歩合制、賞与2回/年(2ヵ月分)インセンティブあり）手当て：社会保険制度、交通費支給あり連絡先：soumu@zerotta.

co.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 : 3 0 a m - 6 : 3 0 p m) で働ける方に限ります。jobs@metropolisjapan.com

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 JF seeking female friends. I'm 30, seeking female friends who can hang out for dining, drinking or something else. Any nationality is fine. kotetsukunwanko@excite.co.jp JF seeking new friends for drinks after work, cafes, movies or something like that. Not seeking romance or one-night stand. Only serious and nice people, please. shooting20star@hotmail.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 Not Japanese? UK chap, internationally traveled, working near the Imperial Palace, seeking international people for drinks and chats after work. Any nonJapanese nationality ok. Tell me your story in a few lines when you contact me. greenteais.yummy@gmail.com Seeking friends in central Tokyo. JF, early 30s, seeks friends to hang out with in central Tokyo. atkm92@yahoo.co.jp Sunday friends. Western guy, enjoys hiking, relaxing at beach, kayaking, seeking friends with free Sun to enjoy places like Izu, the lakes, shrines, onsen, picnics. かんたんなにほんごだいじょぶ。Say hello. scorpiosrealm@ hotmail.co.uk

Tokyo Stn. Male, English, living and working in Tokyo, seeking easygoing people for drinks, chats after work around Tokyo Stn, Shimbashi, etc. This is not for language exchange. Please tell me about yourself when you reply. m3_3m@ outlook.com

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN

Marriage. Single man living and studying in Tokyo seeking marriage with a gentle and kind woman. faraponne@ gmail.com Mature and sophisticated Japanese, some have said charming, seeking an elegant, passionate, kind SWF. I dream about wild nights as well as sharing the simple pleasures of love. Is that you? imak1_2_3@yahoo.co.jp Mature and sophisticated nonJapanese, some have said deluded, is seeking an elegant, passionate and kind SHF (“So Humorous Female”). I dream about wild nights as well as sharing the simple pleasures. ja22y@outlook.com

S E E K I N G A S U G A R DA D DY ? Safely meet rich and elite men while having fun and making money. We are a members-only dating club with strict rules. Foreign and Japanese executives, lawyers, celebrities. Not an escort clu b. N o ch ar g e fo r fe m ale members. 0120 - 675 - 858(E) international@universe-club.jp ht t p: //u ni ve r s e - clu b.j p/e n / women

Pasta and wine. Freshly cooked pasta, a glass of wine, soft romantic music playing in the background. What more could I need? A woman to share this evening with. Tall English male seeking you, if you're serious. Nonsmokers only. whatmakes.udance@gmail.com

Aroma massage. Would you like a nice, relaxing aroma oil massage? Amateur masseur seeks mature massage partners to practice on. I can meet anywhere in central Tokyo. I speak English and Japanese. amamassage@hotmail.com

Seeking chubby, serious JF. European guy, 40, open-minded, easygoing, honest, faithful, seeks a JF who can meet up soon (not too many emails) for a long-term relationship. Let's meet up over coffee and talk. niman429@ yahoo.com

California man seeking nice JF. SWM, 45, outgoing, successful, good-looking. I live in Santa Monica near the beach. I would like to meet a nice JF, 35-45. dancsurf@hotmail.com Caring and cute JM seeks attractive, hearty, nonsmoking Western female for friendship. I simply would like to share fun, interesting and great experiences with you. If you feel the same way, just drop me a line. jinzaixyz@yahoo.co.jp 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 Cute and interesting JM 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 Educated man. I am 28, 180cm, fluent in Japanese and a researcher who is working on epilepsy. I'm seeking a kind woman, 20-35, for a good, long-term relationship. alinihon@yahoo.co.jp French guy in California seeking JF. Successful Frenchman, 46, seeking a JF for long-term leading to marriage. I enjoy the beach, surfing, concerts and restaurants. If you plan to travel to LA, I can show you around. dancsurf@ hotmail.com Fun-loving American businessman in Tokyo. Hi, I am seeking a fun-loving woman to meet while I am in Tokyo. How about dinner and drinks after work? I come to Tokyo often. Email me, please. daltexguy34@yahoo.com Girlfriend. Japanese man, 45, decent, cultured, with a good sense of humor, seeking a lady of any age, Japanese or foreign, to enjoy friendship. gnbkaijpn@ gmail.com

Plus-size woman. Japanese man, 40s, gentle, open-minded, romantic, seeks chubby girlfriend for a long-term relationship. Any age, nationality ok. Please do not hesitate—you are a lovely woman. gnbkaijpn@gmail.com

Seeking large Japanese girlfriend. Canadian guy, 40s, open-minded, gentle, romantic, positive, seeks overweight girlfriend for long-term relationship in Tokyo. Serious only, please. bbalajan@ yahoo.com

Love don't cost a thing. I'm black, you're Japanese; I'm male, you're female— let's build a relationship based on trust and sincerity. I don't need your money, you don't need mine. Distance is not a barrier! Let love lead... Serious only. keneticology@gmail.com

Happy relationship. I am seeking a good, long-lasting relationship, hopefully leading to marriage. If you have the same thing in mind, please let me know. I am a Japanese female, 40. risarisacarino1717@yahoo.co.jp Happy relationship

Each branch has different hours.

Mountain view. If you are fond of the aurora, stars, snow, mountains, animals, the other dimensions... we might have a chance. I am a SJF, 50, fit, open-minded, artistic, intelligent and love all the above. oriontopleiades@ gmail.com

www.dubliners.jp

Perfect season for a new start! Working single mother, 30s. Too busy to find a date, yet would like to go out with a gentleman, 40s-50s. Casual first, but hopefully leading to a longterm relationship. bluemermaiduk@ yahoo.com

Seeking mature JF. Cool guy, 40s, positive, romantic, honest, a gentleman, seeks a JF, 40s-50s, for a long-term relationship. nnazila73@yahoo.com Seeking Parisienne. Affluent and excellent Japanese architectural engineer is seeking an attractive Parisienne who can speak English. I visited Paris two years ago and would like to know more about the city. Give me the hot info on Paris now. imak1_2_3@ yahoo.co.jp

Rebirth our lives. Seeking love and a relationship, eventually partnership. Japanese female, people say attractive and sweet yet intriguing and unique, seeking a well-educated, active, smart gentleman with a positive outlook on life. Singles only. I am 40s. amrita_ banana2014@yahoo.co.jp

Seeking some fun with a SJM? Cool, tall, witty Japanese male is seeking some fun with a single white female in Tokyo. We can start from friends. You're single; I'm single—life is too short. Why waste time? kemkekilab@gmail.com

Seeking new love. Attractive JF, 30s, just out of a relationship. I want to meet someone new. Serious only, please. keiko2011tokyo@yahoo.co.jp

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 Tall for small. Tall WM, slim, professional, seeking small JF, openminded, normal, loves ice cream. Should I meet you? summerfunk@googlemail. com Western girl? Let's start from friends! Sick of creepy JMs hitting on you in the street, looking at "charisma men" who only go for Japanese girls, and being lost in translation? Cool Japanese man right here for you. larcenciel800@gmail.com

14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN

DUBLINERS’ SHIBUYA 13th ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Fri, April 24 | All Day Join Metropolis for their April Getsumatsu Party from 7pm to 1am! Pints of draught beer

¥500

14.4 GAY & LESBIAN LOVE-SONG LOVER. Romantic, mature guy seeking another nonsmoking guy for friendship, interesting activities around town, maybe more. Tall, dark brown hair, average buil d . S ense of humor along with independence important. Happy to exchange face photos and chat first. ming@zar. att.ne.jp

(Guinness, Kilkenny, Yebisu)

Friends and fun. Japanese guy, 27, 170, 65, good-looking, seeking friends and fun in/around Tokyo. Please reply w/face photo and stats. Thanks. kcv@ hotmail.co.jp

2F Shinjuku Lion Hall 3-28-9 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku 03-3352-6606 | sali3292@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g209300/

Lesbian friends and girlfriend sought by JF, nonsmoker. Hope to make good friendship and more. My English isn't great. Serious females only! No couples. maplefrozen@gmail.com

B1 Sun Gorou Bldg. 1-10-8 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku 03-5951-3614 | sali2709@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g029000/

Seeking bi female to go to Tokyo Rainbow Pride with American couple. He is straight, she is bi. 日本語 ok! cook_on_wheels@yahoo.com http:// tokyorainbowpride.com/

14.5 ESCORTS 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

We welcome all kinds of parties. Please contact us.

Love the outdoors? I love hiking, cycling, camping, snowshoeing. I'm seeking a strong man to share the outdoors with. From Oregon, USA, 47, now in Kanagawa. I desire a real connection with a native English speaker. Nonsmoker and unattached, please. lab@cyber.email.ne.jp

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

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 male seeks a new friend. Is anyone seeking a good relationship here? I don't want affairs; I want a real relationship with a special female. I'm a SJM, cool and honest, not a party animal, love freedom. getloud999-hello@yahoo. co.jp

AMERICAN, CANADIAN, EUROPEAN OR JAPANESE MAN, 45 +, kind, f inancially secure, de cent , sought by at trac ti ve, cheerful, nice lady for friendship or a serious relationship. I am serious, and I hope to meet a really nice man. I believe in love. Write with photo. plaisirssucres@hotmail.com

Shinjuku

Ikebukuro

Shibuya

2F Dogenzaka Center Bldg. 2-29-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku 03-5459-1736 |sali6581@sapporo-lion.co.jp http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g008214/

Akasaka

B1 Sannou Park Tower 2-11-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku 03-3539-3615 | sali2645@sapporo-lion.co.jp r.gnavi.co.jp/g008233/ Closed: Sat., Sun., & Holidays

Shinagawa

Shinagawa Mitsubishi Bldg. B1F Grand Passage 2-16-3 Kounan, Minato-ku 03-6718-2834 | sali6654@sapporo-lion.co http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g008220/

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 T R A N C E PA R T I E S . A t t r a c t i ve 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

RELATIONS THE PROBLEM WITH PET NAMES BY GRACE BUCHELE MINETA

I love using “pet names” with my husband. For all of you who don’t know, a pet name is an affectionate (albeit slightly ridiculous) way of addressing someone you’re romantically involved with. They’re very popular among high school and college-aged couples in America—but for some reason, they never caught on in Japan. I call my husband “hun,” “sweetheart,” or “babe,” and he calls me “honey,” “pretty girl,” and “boo-chan.” Roll your eyes all you want; I think it’s adorable.

愛称で呼んだらダメかしら？私は夫とお互いを愛称で呼び合う事が大好きです。愛称とは恋人などのあなたとロマンチックな関係を持つ人を愛情を込めて呼ぶ呼び方の一つです。愛称はアメリカの高校生や大学生カップルの間では非常に人気ですが、何故か日本ではあまり広まっていません。私は夫の事を「hun」「sweetheart」や「babe」と呼び、夫は私の事を「honey」「pretty girl」や「booちゃん」と呼びます。どうぞ私達の事を笑いたかったら笑ってください。私は愛称はステキだと思ってますので。

■ 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 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Everything’s all jumbled up and you’re taking the hits as they come, yet feeling like you’ve hit your stride. The truth is, whatever project you’re championing, as the south node conjuncts the Aries Moon on Friday, you’ve done this all before, probably in a past life. You may feel it’s ridiculous that you have to come in and save someone, an organization, or an institution when you’ve warned them all along. But it’s the north node that settles your spirit; your soul grows by leaps and bounds this week.

There are times when, as Taurus the Bull, you charge forward. There are others when you sit comfortably and just appreciate. This is a week to sit only to rest, as you salvage what you can of beliefs and love worth saving. There’s not a moment to waste as the Moon connects with the south node and then Uranus. Taureans given the role of caretaker will also be expected to communicate the importance of tending to self and others. Venus is gearing up to write you a check.

Venus in your sign makes you beautiful inside and out. It’s OK to treat yourself to that special haircut or wardrobe accessory—in fact, others may expect you to. There’s a focus on comfort, security, and a desire to discuss it, but with the Moon in conjunction with the south node and Uranus, you’re likely to be jumping through hoops of others’ making. If you have a secret desire to curl up with a book or a Kindle, know that everyone needs a cozy escape sometimes, and take the initiative.

Pallas Athene has just entered your partnership sector. You could meet someone quirky and delightful, as long as the unusual doesn’t put you off. Pluto is thundering through this sector of your chart anyway, daring you to do what you want, not what you should. It’s also possible someone’s trying to get the upper hand, using a dominant or “superior” position to get the better of you. If so, remember to open your protective covering only with strong backup present.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Sep 23-Oct 22 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣

Oct 23-Nov 21 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣ Scorpios are sexy and mysterious, which makes you enticing. You may live for privacy and hold onto a few secrets, but only because you are the guardian of when it’s time to release certain knowledge to the general populace. What do you think about this being “the week”? The Moon, south node, Uranus, and the Sun are going to pull a few surprises because that’s how freedom rings. While you can’t control others’ actions, you sure can enjoy the results of your own. Congratulations!

Mar 21-Apr 19 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

Jul 23-Aug 22 ♥♥♥♥♥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♣♣♣

Apr 20-May 20 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Aug 23-Sep 22 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

CANCER

As a leadership sign, you’ve been in tough situations before, so you’re probably not surprised they’ve come around again. You’re now more prepared, as the subtle distinctions and obvious maneuvers of others have been revealed. With Juno and Jupiter in Leo, you can roar with more conviction as this financial goddess and thunderbolt god stand beside you. You may have noticed resources are thin, so be sure to enjoy what you have with your usual generous nature.

This could be a quirky week for you, more in the spirit of adventure than weird. Neptune conjuncts Vesta exactly in your house of partnership. You may start out wondering why someone is so subtly attractive, then realize they hold a storehouse of wisdom and caring. Since you’re in line to discover a treasure trove, open up your spirit and request what you think will make your life smooth, beautiful, and happy—you may just get what you ask for.

A great week to fall in love with a philosophy that lets you live the way you want to. Venus in your solar ninth house makes it easier to accept what your soul is whispering. Beauty and love are her domain, and she wants you to experience this wherever you are. Travel is a great way to see things with new eyes, and finances may strengthen to pay for it. Things are wild in the area of partnership and it could be useful to have a few extra beliefs on hand.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

Jan 20-Feb 18 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Feb 19-Mar 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Sagittarians love to shoot their arrows to the sky, but you might not have been expecting to actually hit a star. With Saturn in your sign, you may be feeling a bit shy, just when you’re asked to step out and speak for a cause. This is a coming-of-age period for Sag, regardless of how long you’ve been on the planet. At whatever level you resonate, you’re being handed the baton. You can turn it down, only to discover they’ll just keep coming. Accept the one that makes your heart sing.

You may not enjoy the crumbling and chaos, but there are measures still asking to be addressed before the shaking stops. You can’t help having others come to you for advice, even if you’re not feeling on top of any pedestals at the moment. The Moon, south node, Uranus, and the Sun all congregate galactically to open a door you weren’t expecting. Communications are slippery but the mystical is ever more obvious and available to you.

Ceres in your sign is asking you to sit down and rest a moment. You can balance out your week without losing all the opportunities flying past. The main thing to consider is what is being expressed by the current transit of the Moon, south node, Uranus, and the Sun. What you hear, read, and say is likely to change from moment to moment. Knowing this, you can sift out what you need to remember and act on, and what you can let the heavens take care of. Find your niche and recline.

Neptune connects with Vesta precisely in Pisces this week. Don’t let your ability to dream big or your desire to help others keep you from asking for what you want and need. The truth is, you’re intimately connected with the universe, and it’s this which makes your requests resonate in a sympathetic field. The Moon adds feeling to the south node, Uranus, and Sun combination on Friday. Blend and stir the magic that is intrinsically yours.

Nov 22-Dec 21 ♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Dec 22-Jan 19 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

PISCES

LINGO BOX Ikeisei (異形成) = Dysplasia

Under a pilot program in Osaka, taxi drivers who score a Grade 2 on the Eiken English proficiency test will be allowed to decorate their cabs with stickers that say, “International Visitors Taxi.”

Mahi shita (麻痺した） = Paralyzed

the small print

Bōryoku (暴力) = Violence Teiden (停電) = Blackout

BY STEVE TRAUTLEIN

Kankō (観光) = Tourism

stats

THE FACT THAT THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNIZES CHILD POVERTY AS A NATIONAL ISSUE IS A BIG STEP”

5.3 MILLION

—Aya Abe, a professor at Tokyo Metropolitan University, on a newly-launched fund to help improve the lives of poor children

STRANGE DAYS ⊲Investigators ⊲ with Chubu Electric Power Co. are at a loss to explain what caused a blackout that left nearly half of all households in Nagano Prefecture without electricity last month. ⊲Government ⊲ officials say a Japanese tour company’s decision to take a group of sightseers on an excursion to northern Niger is “incomprehensible.” ⊲The ⊲ foreign ministry had cautioned citizens to avoid the area because of activities by Islamist militants.

NOT ALL FUN & GAMES ⊲A ⊲ court in Fukuoka awarded ¥200 million to a man who was paralyzed when he fell from the shoulders of high school classmates during a sports-day activity in 2003. ⊲The ⊲ man, now 29, was injured while taking part in a game called kibasen, in which teams of students stage “mock cavalry battles.” ⊲Authorities ⊲ at the health ministry have added 196 diseases—including muscular dystrophy and a bone affliction called dysplasia—to their

Units of Toyota’s iconic Crown luxury sedan that have been sold since the model’s introduction 60 years ago

list of illnesses for which sufferers can receive financial assistance. ⊲The ⊲ payments now cover a total of 306 diseases that affect 1.2 million people.

31,377,000

Visitors to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea in 2014—a record

Percentage of government subsidies allocated for March 11 disaster reconstruction that have been used as planned

FOREIGN(ER) AFFAIRS ⊲Officials ⊲ at the justice ministry say that, for the first time in more than two decades, the number of foreign residents who overstay their visas is rising. ⊲The ⊲ officials say about 41,000 foreigners are currently violating their visa status, which is still way down from the peak of 299,000 in 1993. ⊲A ⊲ tourism promotion group in Asakusa held a drill designed to help visitors from abroad deal with being “far from home during a disaster.” About 700 people took part. ⊲Authorities ⊲ at the environment ministry have banned exports of Asian brown pond turtles. They say the critters from Okinawa are being threatened by overhunting.

nounced that they had investigated a record 59,072 cases of domestic violence last year. ⊲They ⊲ say the number was so high because they’ve expanded the scope of investigations to include unmarried partners who live together. ⊲The ⊲ number of stalking cases reported last year—22,823—was also a record. ⊲Headline ⊲ of the Week: “Facial Recognition System Sends Warning E-mails to Families of Pachinko Addicts” (via Japan Today)

RISING UP, RISING DOWN

AND FINALLY…

⊲Authorities ⊲ at the National Police Agency an-

⊲As ⊲ part of a ¥3 billion fundraising effort, administrators at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto— designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site— have leased part of the grounds to property developers, who are planning to build condos. ⊲Two ⊲ Japanese scientists were among the six winners of the 2015 Canada Gairdner International Awards, which recognize achievements in medicine and which come with a prize of $10,000 (Canadian). ⊲According ⊲ to the agriculture ministry, the amount of land devoted to community farms has increased 40 percent over the past decade. ⊲The ⊲ three prefectures with the most such farms are Kanagawa (589), Tokyo (475) and Aichi (343).

at a glance BY ADAM GARWOOD

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

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 and the other unpleasant stuf f involved in raising kids. No, thank you. Of course, that attitude was part of my BC (Before Child) life, back when I was the perfect mother (it’s easy prechild). I would be fine on my own, and surely my husband’s occasional presence would fill my adult- conversation quota. But then something unexpected knocked me flat. I gave birth to … a baby—a real, live, cr ying, not sleeping, what-the-heckshould- I - do -with-itfor-12-hours-each-day, holy-jesus-mary-andjoseph-it-just-ateIllustration by Christi Rochin incense -now-whatshould-I-do baby. I was lonely. And so very, very lost. I started dreaming of mama tomo. At the park, I would sneak a glance at groups of moms laughing away (at poop -related stories, I’d jealously think—how I long for those stories now!) while their kids played. But I had no idea how to approach them. Complicating matters was nervousness about my Japanese. Would I hinder conversations, needing extra or slower explanations? No, I just couldn’t make mama BY HELEN A. LANGFORD tomo. I was destined to be a lone-wolf mother. Until one day, my infant daughter stared down a Western woman at the park with her kids. She came over for a chat, and introduced me to the wonderful world of mama tomo and mothers’ groups. I haven’t looked back since. That woman changed not just my life, but my daughter’s as well. And Mama tomo (friends): there was a time while I don’t see her often, I owe her when those two words would send me so much. All of my mama tomo, all of running for the nearest exit. Friend- my daughter’s friends, my sanity, and, ship based solely on child possession yes, happiness and contentment as a seemed so silly. How could that pos- mother—they’re ours because of her, because of the world of support she sibly be enough? Send your article to: I pictured deadly dull “play dates,” and others welcomed us into. editor@ Mothers’ groups offer shoulders to where conversations revolved around metropolisjapan.com such thrilling topics as poop, weaning, cry on, an outlet for venting, smiling

Finding Your Village

Because it’s too hard being a mom on your own

WANT TO HAVE THE LAST WORD?

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

WHETHER CYBER-BASED OR FACE-TO-FACE, MOTHERS’ GROUPS ARE A GODSEND.” faces as each other’s children blow out birthday candles. There are cheers of “you can do it!” and the ever-important “I know what you’re going through; I’ve been there, too.” Whether cyber-based or of the face-to-face variety, mothers’ groups (fathers are usually welcome, too) are a godsend. And it turns out that language really isn’t much of a barrier after all. I belong to four mothers’ groups now, and many of my dearest friendships were born therein. There are the local groups, huge Tokyo-based ones, and even Japan-wide Facebook groups. Most are welcoming of anyone and everyone, though some focus on foreign-born moms and dads only. Yes—that’s important, too. For all the fantastic friendships I’ve built with Japanese moms and their kids, there is something to be said for belonging to a group where I can vent about some of the more challenging aspects of being a foreign mother in Japan. Being able to do that without the risk of offending my Japanese friends is a relief because, let’s face it, no matter where a person lives (home country or not), there are going to be things a person doesn’t like about the place. Being able to talk freely about those parts—and get advice on how to deal with them positively—is a blessing. Making new friends is never easy, but as the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child (and protect a person’s sanity—for some reason, that got left out of the original). And it turns out that having kids is a perfectly legitimate place to start friendships. So, if you’re lonely and overwhelmed, look for us online, at the park, around town. Let your mama (and papa) tomo be your village. I promise you’ll be welcomed with open arms. ■ Helen A. Langford is a writer, editor, innkeeper, and recent convert to oya-ko socializing.