Metropolis #1002 June 7-20, 2013 by Metropolis

Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine www.metropolis.co.jp

#1002 Jun 7~20, 2013

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#1002

JUN 7-20, 2013

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Photo of the week

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06 FEATURE

WHEELS OF GREEN

UPCOMING PRIZE!

by Roberto De Vido

One lucky MMC member will win a set of 7 Nail Enamels Courtesy of Revlon

03 THE SMALL PRINT 05 UPFRONT 08 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 10 AGENDA 15 MOVIES 23 DINING OUT 24 CLASSIFIEDS & JOBS 29 HOROSCOPE & MEDIABOX 30 THE LAST WORD

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A foggy night on the Shinkyo sacred bridge—gateway to Nikko's shrines, by Eric Dan

The Small Print By Steve Trautlein

THE MOOD WILL GET “ WORSE, BUT AS TIME GOES BY IT MAY COME BACK

TO MORE OR LESS THE SAME PLACE.”

showing grisly crime-scene photos in black and white. ćć The first female director of the Historiographical Institute of the University of Tokyo—the nation’s leading organization for preserving historical documents—took office last month. ćć An education ministry panel has recommended medical researchers file a report when they receive corporate donations of ¥2 million yen or more.

PUBLIC ENEMIES

ONWARD AND UPWARD ćć A sexual-minority advocacy group is petitioning the government to have sex-reassignment surgery covered by national health insurance. ćć Some Japanese courts are trying to ease the stress on citizen jurors (a.k.a. lay judges) by

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190,000

Estimated number of abandoned homes in Tokyo, according to the internal affairs ministry

maintain correct posture and improve their quality of life.” ćć Mie fishermen successfully freed a 10m-long whale caught in seaweed-harvesting ropes. ćć In response to a surge of interest in bonsai among young Europeans—um, really?—Saitama nurseries are to resume exports of the tiny trees to the EU.

YOU DON’T SAY ćć Nagoya University researchers believe female rhinoceros beetles may have once had horns but lost them when the appendages became “unnecessary for survival.” ćć Fukushima officials report 1,300 cattle starved to death and more than 1,500 were euthanized following the March 11 disaster. ćć The former head of a mental home in Chiba was handed one year in prison for “hitting a 50-year-old female resident in the face and stomach.” ćć Meanwhile, 1,033 cases of abuse against disabled people were reported in the six months since a law targeting such practices went into effect in October.

—Yoshihide Soeya, Keio University Institute of East Asian Studies, on tensions between Japan, South Korea and China

ćć The Consumer Affairs Agency upbraided CocaCola Japan for using the word tokuhou (“news flash”) in ads for a new fiber drink. The agency said consumers might confuse the term with tokuho, a word used to describe healthy food. ćć The MPD received 14,104 entries in a contest to name a new type of bank scam where fraudsters pretend to be the victim’s son over the phone. The official name is now “Kaasan, tasukete sagi,” or “Mom, help me scam.” ćć The newest hire at the justice ministry’s clerical department is… a juvenile delinquent on probation. Officials hope to foster understanding about criminal rehabilitation. ćć The MPD has asked NTT Docomo to be more careful with cellphone-rental companies, some of which are apparently fronts for crime groups.

us.fotolia.com/metropolis

AND FINALLY…

HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN ćć Government officials are warning people to be on the alert for moneymaking scams that “cite the effects of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s economic policies.” ćć A research team led by a professor at Tohoku Fu k ush i Un iversit y in Senda i has developed a wheelchair “that can help the elderly

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441

Pregnant women who have taken a prenatal test for genetic disorders since the exam was introduced in April, according to the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology

ćć Kobe police arrested t wo men for selling devices allowing TV viewers to watch satellite channels for free. The men allegedly netted ¥80 million. ćć LDP officials plan to tackle child poverty by offering “consultations on family budgeting and career training for parents.” ćć The environment ministry may remove goshawks from its list of endangered species. The population of the birds, below 500 in 1984, has bounced back to 5,818 in Kanto alone. ćć Bottom Story of the Week: “Abandoned Japanese Bikes in Use by Nurses, Midwives in Ghana” (via Jiji).

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68,321

People with disabilities who found work through public job-placement offices in fiscal 2012—a record— according to the labor ministry

COMPILED FROM REPORTS BY AP, JAPAN TODAY, THE JAPAN TIMES, JIJI, THE TOKYO REPORTER, JAPAN PROBE, THE MAINICHI, THE JAPAN NEWS, AFP, REUTERS AND KYODO

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PEOPLE, TRENDS & MISCELLANY

rubber out

Upfront

stormy weather

COURTESY OF SHAREFUN

hose ¥500 brollies just don’t cut it. A bit of wind and before long your purported shelter is propping up a vending machine. Get seriously kitted up this rainy season with the Senz Umbrella. Touted as the “original storm umbrella,” this European-Japanese collaboration is aerodynamically planned to allow forward movement into winds of up to 60km/h (small)—or even 100km/h (large). It’s been tested on skis and motorbikes. And it’s won design awards. At ¥6,825, the Senz is not cheap. But how many ¥500 coins have you spent on useless one-storm-wonders? www.scope.ne.jp

COURTESY OF SCOPE

COURTESY OF 7 AND I HOLDINGS

tep out for tsuyu with style and sashay down the sopping street as if you were on a watery catwalk. The Tsubasa Matsuwaka x Good Day collaboration brings Tsubasa’s elegant fashion sense together with Good Day’s rep as a good quality, affordable brand. Deluginous delights include lace- and ribbon-festooned brollies you’ll surely never leave on the train (¥1,490), and rain boots—with high heels—in black, brown, or hot pink (¥3,990). Raincoats (¥4,990) might follow this spring’s trend of trench coats, in a variety of colors and patterns including everyone from Kansai’s fave—leopard-print. Hooded versions are available for the same price for those who have already misplaced their fancy umbrella. www.7netshopping.jp

fan-tash-tic

ＰＬＡＺＡ▲カスタマーサービス室

f you’re missing your faraway paw on Father’s Day (June 16), create a substitute father by buying these handy mustache clips and attaching them to household items. You’ll be surprised at the tender filial feelings that can be prompted by the sight of a coffee packet sporting a bushy tash. And the grounds will stay fresh, too. Sold in sets of four (¥630) the clips could also be a Father’s Day gift. They’re practical, original, and they’re not a tie or a golf ball. But they’re probably only suitable as a sign of dissatisfaction with your upbringing—or a warning you’re about to ask for money. Available at Plaza Stores and online via www.plazastyle.com.

dad pants

elebrate Father’s Day on June 16 by calling attention to your Old Man’s old boy. The Sharefun is named after a combo of oshare (stylish) and fundoshi (the nappy-like groin holder you’ve seen wrapped around a sumo warrior’s family jewels). The standard Sharefun (¥2,940) is offered alongside the glitzier “more design” series (¥3,465), and even one for the kids (¥3,465). If Big Daddy lives up to his name, upgrade your standard fundoshi to a roomy version for no extra cost. Check out their website for info on how to go to the bathroom when snugly enwrapped. Available online at http://sharefun.jp Metropolis is giving away three Sharefun (two ladies’ and one men’s). Email giveaway@metropolis.co.jp with your name and address, and tell us which matsuri is typically graced by folks in fundoshi.

screen around town

COURTESY OF RUN FOR THE CURE AND WORLDWIDE BREAST CANCER

head of the next Run For the Cure sponsored races for breast cancer on June 15 in Nagoya and November 30 in Tokyo, the charity has released the infographic A Dozen Signs of Breast Cancer to help the notoriously unaware Japanese recognize the signs of breast cancer. The Tokyo race is now currently looking for volunteers, as well. For the full infographic, visit www.runforthecure.org/

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Feature

WHEELS OF GREEN

NISSAN LEAF

The two-seater Tesla Roadster is no longer for sale—the company is now turning out the four-door Model S—but the key fob is the same, and the Roadster was the one on offer for a test drive. We drove with Tesla’s Kevin Yu, in charge of the company’s Asia-Pacific operations, who put us at the wheel of an electric supercar. The Roadster’s acceleration is thrilling, enhanced by the knowledge that tromping on the “gas” when the light turns green is not burning any gas at all. During our drive around Aoyama, a Mercedes-Benz coupé pulled up alongside us at a red light and revved its engine. To which the Roadster replied, “Auf wiedersehen, sucker.” The new Model S, resembling an ordinary luxury sedan, outperforms the Roadster by a large margin, and thanks to Moore’s law of technological advancement, or the electric-vehicle equivalent, it’s significantly

Of the 540km we drove the Prius PHV, the car was in electric mode for about three. The battery status display showed “full” most of the time, but apparently it wasn’t full enough to allow switching over, except very briefly. That said, those 540km used up only half a tank of gas, at a cost of just ¥4,200—road tolls were significantly more than that. But for all the electric usage we got with this car, it might just be worth getting the much cheaper regular Prius and spending the savings on a year’s supply of gasoline. Bottom line: This is the car for people who want to, or need to, do a lot of driving. That’s Toyota’s philosophy on “eco” vehicles. It’s a car that gets you where you want to go without compromises. The base price Prius PHV is ¥3.2 million.

This was the big adventure of the green-vehicle research experience. We wanted to push the Leaf to its advertised range limit, so we drove one evening from home in southern Miura Hanto in Kanagawa to Roppongi (just under 80km), planning to recharge during dinner. The problem was the lack of enough publicly available chargers. The first charger located by Nissan’s navigation app already had a Toyota hybrid plugged into it. The second was inside a carpark (¥300 to enter)— and not for public use. The third—we were now late for dinner—was inside the German Embassy grounds... verboten. The locator app is scant on details. The fourth charger was at a Nissan dealership, and we nearly hugged the manager when he emerged. He charged the car for less than hour and reparked it before he had to close the dealership, leaving the key in the door pocket. But after dinner, the car had only charged to 80%. Driving home at highway speeds, the range predictor was unspooling more quickly than the distance covered. We knew of a charger on the YokohamaYokosuka Road, but who wants to stop to charge their car at 1am? Approaching, the blue-lit digital instrument panel showed 15km of “fuel” remaining, with home just 10km away. We breathed a (tentative) sigh of relief and ploughed onward, only for the readout to change abruptly from “15” to “– – –.” We made it, but not without imagining a phone call to Nissan next morning letting them know where they could find their car. Company spokesman Chris Keeffe later pointed out the car does have a reserve for people who insist on pushing past sensible limits. With most aspiring electric car drivers planning to use their vehicles for shorter trips, Nissan is going all in on EV, waiting on government approval to sell its Renault-developed Nissan Mobility Concept in Japan. The Mobility Concept looks like a cross between the

COURTESY OF TESLA

COURTESY OF TOYOTA

ROBERTO DE VIDO

A look at the eco-tech cars on the market By Roberto De Vido

very manufacturer takes a different approach to green driving, with the main divide being electric/non-electric (e.g. hybrid or diesel). If you’re thinking about an all-electric car, you’re probably going to have to modify your driving habits. One manufacturer told Metropolis, “It works for some people. It doesn’t work at all for other people.” Which is why Toyota has sold five million hybrids.

TESLA ROADSTER/MODEL S

Tesla Roadster

cheaper. Tests have proven it can make the 460km from Tokyo to Kyoto without being charged (and with 43km of charge remaining), indicating the Tesla has solved the electric vehicle owner’s range-anxiety problem. Another indication Tesla is doing something right is a North Carolina state senator's proposed legislation in effect banning Tesla sales in the state—after an $8,000 donation to his campaign from the North Carolina Car Dealers Association. One problem is the waiting time. Tesla is to manufacture 20,000 Model S cars this year globally, with the majority going to the US. By comparison, Toyota sells 10 million cars a year. Bottom line: Fun, fun, fun, and great range for an electric. If you can afford one ($62,000 in the US), and don’t mind the wait (the last Roadster customer in Japan had to wait three years), get onto it right away.

TOYOTA PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID (PHV)

Toyota Prius

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Nissan Leaf

said, “Customers just tell us it’s fun.” As usual, the customer is right, with a bonus: it’s zero-emissions fun! The base price costs ¥ 2.95 million with savings through government electric vehicle subsidies. Mercedes Smart fortwo and the roofed-over Yamaha electric wheelchair often used by obasan in the country to get out to the fields. But the MC’s smaller size than the Smart Fortwo might make it even better as a city runabout. Bottom line: The range of the Leaf is advertised at 140150km, though in normal driving it’s more like 120. But Nissan positions the vehicle as a second car/runabout. If you can get your home/office charger situation sorted out, it’s perfect for that. The base price Leaf costs just over ¥3 million and significant savings maybe had through government electric vehicle subsidies.

MERCEDES-BENZ SMART FORTWO ELECTRIC DRIVE So much fun, fun, fun that her daddy can keep the T-Bird. This car turned even more heads than the Tesla Roadster. It wasn’t to be put through the same paces as the Leaf, but it was great for a couple of hours zipping around Tokyo, burning zero gas, and squeezing through tiny gaps in traffic. The Smart fortwo is a two-seater, so it’s not for people with three kids and a Great Dane. And like the Leaf, the all-EV smart car requires you take a close look at your driving habits, and be sure you have access to chargers wherever you drive. Bottom line: Smart brand manager Kyoko Shimakawa

BMW 523D SEDAN BLUEPERFORMANCE M SPORT BMW is expected to launch its i3 electric car in Japan in January, with the i8 to follow. In the meantime, it offers a wide range of “clean” diesel vehicles. We didn’t have enough time to drive the 1,200km BMW Japan said were possible on a single tank of fuel, but diesel engines do tend to run and run. Like many of the tested vehicles, the 523d has several performance modes, from “eco” to “sport,” and the turbocharger doesn’t disappoint in sport mode. At the other end of the eco spectrum, the car shuts down at stoplights to save fuel, and restarts when you lift your foot off the brake. Disconcerting at first, but you get used to it. Bottom line: Like the Toyota Prius, the BMW 523d requires no compromise in your driving habits, and guarantees you won’t suffer from range anxiety. The M Sport costs ¥6.3 million with savings through government ‘green’ vehicle subsidies.

PICK YOUR PONY With environmentally friendly automotive technologies, there are almost as many approaches as manufacturers, with price and convenience the main fault lines. COURTESY OF BMW

While electric cars are inexpensive to operate, they are significantly more expensive than regular gasoline burners. For example, the Smart Fortwo electric drive retails for ¥2.95 million, but its entry-level gas-powered counterpart sells for ¥1.59 million. But for now, if you can afford it and don’t mind the wait, the Tesla Model S is the best eco car on the planet. However, if you, like many of us, can’t and do, but want to cut emissions significantly, choose the Nissan Leaf or the Smart Fortwo based on the size of your family and/ or budget. Perhaps at some point, batteries will offer greater range and come way down in price. And charging stations will become more common. Then, environmental buyers will concern themselves mainly with color and style. As Tesla's Yu put it, “At some point you’ll stop caring about the technology and just focus on price.”

ON THE ROAD Owning a car in Japan means first demonstrating you have a place to park. If your building has parking spaces, the management company will be delighted to rent you one and provide you with a Certificate of Permission for Use of Parking. If you rent or own a house, it’s very likely your property will include a parking space and you can obtain certification either from your landlord (if you rent) or the local police station (if you own). Buying a car is no more difficult in Japan than it is in many other countries, assuming you read and write Japanese or can get help from someone who does. You’ll need a driving license, of course, and obtaining a Japanese license can be easy or hard, depending on the reciprocal relationship your country has with Japan. Those from the US whose driving licenses are issued at the state level are out of luck, and have to negotiate the process from scratch, but license-holders from other Western countries (e.g. the UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Sweden) may find it as easy as filling out a form and passing an eye test. Then you’ll need your alien registration card. Oh, and the money. If you buy through a dealer, the dealer will be happy to take care of the paperwork for you. If you buy a secondhand car from an individual, you will have to navigate the bureaucratic thicket yourself. ROBERTO DE VIDO

BMW Sedan

Mercedes Benz Smart #1002 #833 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 07

Arts & Entertainment ALL THE BEST IN ARTS & CULTURE ACROSS THE METROPOLIS japan beat

DAV

LEE

R OT H

COURTESY OF DAVID LEE ROTH, PHOTOS BY MARK ROJAS

The Van Halen icon is hot for sensei

COURTESY OF DAVID LEE ROTH

By Jeff W. Richards

eteran Van Halen frontman and rock legend David Lee Roth has called Tokyo home for nearly a year. It might seem odd that an American rock star would settle in the Land of the Rising Sun—but it’s something that he ‘s done time and again in other cities over the years. His interest in Japan, though, goes way back, as Metropolis learned when we sat down with him for a lengthy session at his city residence. One thing is clear from the start: living here is about continuing his education. “I’m in school every single day—this is Roth University, by the way,” he says, getting right to it. “I do language every day for two hours... I have a Go sensei, a professional, who comes over two times a week. I love that game.” A long time student of the martial arts, I ask if he’s studying kendo here in Japan—and he quickly corrects me. “No, it’s not kendo. It’s kenjutsu. I’m going for my menkyo kaiden [full mastery] and I’ve been doing that since I was 12.” He explains that was the first time he held a sword in his hand. His father, an eye surgeon, had a lot of Japanese patients and Roth grew up immersed in Japanese-American culture in Pasadena—an area of California that housed internment camps during World War Two and became a strong JapaneseAmerican community after the war. “I grew up next to Mr. Yoshida’s house—he was a kendo instructor,” he says. “Today, I’m the master of the six foot staff—it’s actually a shower curtain rod, but it looks great in the lights and I use it on stage,” he laughs, which is something that David Lee Roth does a lot, flashing his pearly whites and making you feel as if it’s the first time he’s told the joke. “And I do sumi-e [Japanese ink painting] as well,” he continues. “I always wanted to go to art school. I always knew there was such a thing as perspective even though my parents routinely accused me of never having any.” He laughs, but then quickly gets earnest. “But now that I’m here I’ve found a very serious professional teacher. It’s shugyo. Its austere style. My sumi-e teacher is right out of the Meiji restoration. He’s got the little goatee and he’s a man of very, very few words. And now we’ve grown to become friends, ya follow? It’s part of the education. It’s part of getting to know the neighborhood, but it’s also sharpening the sword—mentally, spiritually, physically— because when I go back to show business in the United States… It’s war. It’s conflict.” On that cue, is he working on any new music in Tokyo. “I’m in and out of the studio over in Ginza, routinely. Great studio, superb studio.” He’s recording constantly, but it’s not new music, it’s content for his HD video podcast, The Roth Show, and his radically different one-man variety radio show, Tokyo High Power Style Radio show (both available at davidleeroth.com and on iTunes). “I invented that title. It’s supposed to be

like ‘Walkman,’ like no white guy would ever say that but when you do it seems to work for you,” he laughs. “So that’s me trying to sound Japanese-ish [he does his best salaryman-style katakana English] ‘To-ki-o Ha-i Pa-wa— Su-ta-i-ru.’” It’s evident that he’s riding a surging wave of creativity in Japan. “There’s more latitude here, ‘gap,’ I think it’s called. There’s a gap and this is one of the things [sumo champion] Konishiki has shared with me—is that folks find it 'interesting' if you do something that’s unexpected or incongruous.” He feels that popular music—and show business in general—is much more restrictive back in the US where you have to be known for one thing. He cites an example: “Advertising Boss Coffee. In the US—whoa!—they’re gonna make fun of you on Saturday Night Live. Here it’s kind of expected. I’d love to do a Boss Coffee ad. Here, I’ll do it now: [he adopts low yakuza voice] ‘Who’s boss now?’” He lets out another of his big laughs. “It’s pretty simple, but it works." For Roth, in rock, to play what he terms ‘floor’ music ("because it’s house mix, it’s dance, it’s R&B, funk, whatever... ") would be unacceptable in the US. “Well, we’re not sure. ‘Jeez you changed your hat, Bob—you’re not a cowboy anymore.’” Roth broadcasts Tokyo High Power Style in English and Japanese along with his assistant, Etsuko. Does he bring in his famous Japanese friends as guests? “A lot of my colleagues have reached back in time, 1970s style, to replicate radio, and perhaps even more, talk show television—and it becomes a battle for guests. Whose guests are better?” He stops. “I'm not really interested in guests. I use as my template Mark Twain, who also traveled the world.” Roth’s concern is to enlighten listeners on subjects of his own mysterious choosing. “You're gonna learn things. The last episode, Konishiki said, ‘Wow! I didn't know the history of FM radio and why the DJs [drops to baritone voice]

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talk... so... slow.” It’s obvious he’s enjoying his new didactic role. So what's the perfect Tokyo day for Diamond Dave? “It’s not going to be perfect for most people,” he says. “Most of my day is spent is some variation of school or transition in between. It starts off at three in the morning because I’m running the show [Van Halen’s tour] from the balcony up there on my headset… Internationally we’ll probably do 50 shows outside of the United States next year. Then I go back to sleep. Then school starts for me at nine and I’m done at noon. Usually three times a week I’ll have sumi-e and three times a week when I train with the sword. Weekends my form of recreation is Go. It’s not to most people’s taste.” So is Tokyo home ? “I’m based out of here now.” The highly content and independent Roth says that the only thing missing is his dog, Russell. “His inoculations are just about done. He’s an Australian cattle dog—a Queensland Blue. Next time we do an interview here, you’ll see Russ. We did fifty-five cities together on the last Van Halen tour. After that, I’m happy.” Happily, Russ won't miss Van Halen’s dates in Japan this month. “We're playing for two weeks, you know, it's the devil's rush. We're playing Nagoya, Osaka and Tokyo.” We end on his perceptions of day to day life in Tokyo for those of us that come to live here—how it seems to fire them up. “It does for me. The ideas are much more myriad, and much more complex and constant here. And you know what? A lot of it comes from the interaction of people on the street. ‘Sumimasen’-style, you know, just that simple respect and the simple acknowledgement of others—it’s pretty rare in the US.” For the full interview with more on kenjutsu, the Japanese language, his Japanese tattoo, and more—see http://meturl.com/dlrintokyo. Van Halen plays Tokyo Dome on June 21. See concert listings (popular) for details.

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o, why did English pop stars Mike Skinner and Rob Harvey name their new band after something as plebian as the Department of Transportation? “I don’t know really,” Skinner confesses from down the line in England. What he later says provides some insight into how the ordinariness suggested by the D.O.T. acronym was the point where he and Harvey bonded and ended up working together. “One of the things we share is coming from backgrounds that are not musical,” Skinner explains about the group’s oddball pairing, which sets his deadpan raps against Harvey’s emotive vocals. “Both of us have struggled with the question: ‘What purpose do we serve?’ In the music industry there is a lot of sitting around not seemingly doing anything. If you come into it feeling like you have to work a 9-to-5, it’s very hard. So all we’re really trying to do is make songs that are good enough that people want to buy them. Without sounding too Wall Street, we both have a sort of working man’s idea of what a song should be.” Which is not to belittle artists that reach for the sky. “You do need artists who are up their own ass and lost in their own idea of art—that’s where the cutting edge is,” Skinner muses. “But ordinary working people in the north of England are never going to understand that. We need the cutting edge, but I don’t think The D.O.T. are ever going to be that because we have too much of a complex about wanting to do something that means something to people.” Skinner, with his riveting hip-hop storytelling band The Streets, and Harvey, with his soul-bearing retro rock outfit The Music, were both at the end of the line with their groups when they joined forces in 2011. “I was demoing a lot of stuff for The Streets and just really liked the sound of his voice, so he ended up singing on three songs on the last Streets album,” Skinner recalls. “It was quite natural, really. We did a session together one day and wrote these three really good songs, and we’ve carried on ever since.” The result, on their first proper album Diary, weds Harvey’s keening vocals to Skinner’s dope rhythms, but it’s neither The Streets with vocals nor The Music with beats. Skinner sometimes sings, Harvey sometimes steps back—the music has a timeless poignancy that comes from working with expert horn players and other session musicians. “Usually I begin on the drum machine, and it ends with Rob finishing on the vocals—that’s how a lot of it’s come together,” Skinner says. “But it’s really relaxed. The Streets was quite high pressure in terms of there having to be a story. I’m rebelling against that now, which means that a lot of the songs are ambiguous. When music is melodic you can paint impressionistic pictures that don’t really need to make concrete sense. I’ve really been enjoying writing songs in that way, and a lot of them don’t have a storyline.” Skinner was headed off to direct films when The D.O.T. came together, and his and Harvey’s videos—one featuring a modern-day Jesus for the song “Blood, Sweat and Tears” is particularly striking—provide a visual accompaniment to the album. “The title Diary was a product of the video diaries that we’d been doing,” Skinner says. “To say that it’s more of a diary than any other album would be arrogant, but visually to be able to make the album look like one of our diaries was important.” Skinner isn’t exactly sure where what some have called “a celebrity side project” is leading, but he’s comfortable with its present shape for the moment. “I think it’s important to see things through. I’m very erratic on a daily basis, and I have a lot going on, so I find it very important to really focus on one thing. “The D.O.T. is in its infancy and we’re very careful for it to not set too quickly, for it to carry on feeling genuinely fun and unexpected. We wrote songs in big rooms with various people, and we wrote emailing back and forth, and I think maybe on the next album we might even write songs separately and then finish them off together. We have opted keep it as free as possible so it can still feel exciting.” Liquidroom, Jun 13. See concert listings (popular) for details.

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By Dan Grunebaum

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England’s odd couple bonds on Diaries

THE D.O.T.

COURTESY OF HOSTESS

Meiji-dori Komazawa-dori

music

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Agenda Listings

CONCERT

Submit your event directly to metropolis.co.jp/listings See www.metropolis.co.jp for more listings

COURTESY OF HIP

Lowke, Osaka punk rockers Rizing 2 End and more. Jun 20, 6pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d. Ruido K2. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3462-5310. www.ruido.org/k2

Van Halen

US hard-rock gamechangers. Jun 21, 7pm, ¥9,000-12,500. Nippon Budokan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. www.udo.jp/artists/ vanhalen

The Cherry Cokes

Celtic folk rock with a heavy metal twist. Jun 21, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.liquidroom.net

Eric Jacobsen Band Eric Jacobsen is best known in Japan as the English-singing, guitar-playing kids’ entertainer on NHK’s evergreen morning Eigo de Asobo segment. But the Massachusetts native has also long written psychedelic folk-infused “grownup” music. Jacobsen told Metropolis his new album Kind Awakening came out of a sense of “now or never.” Its themes range from explorations of mortality and religious brainwashing, to Jacobsen’s feelings on regaining his sense of smell after ten years. “For kids’ stuff, I generally go positive, fun—it’s honest, but usually optimistic,” explained Jacobsen. “For my grownup stuff I have to be emotionally naked. Good and bad.” Moon Romantic Aoyama, Jun 14, 7:30pm, ¥2,000 (adv)/ ¥2,500 (door) +1d. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. www.ericband.com

Andre DiMuzio

Electronic and synthesizercentric with the occasional acoustic guitar element. Jun 21, 7pm, free. The Juke Joint. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6427-2528. www. thejukejoint.jp

Soul Beats Jazz One

Heartfelt soul and jazz, mixed with hip-hop vibes by Aimi Mukohara and Lo-Fi. Jun 22, 7pm, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. The Juke Joint. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6427-2528. www.jukejoint.jp

Pinback

POPULAR

Jun 8, 6pm, ¥2,999 (adv) +1d. Makuhari Messe. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www.l-tike. com

Helloween

La’cryma Christi

Concerts Metal giants with guest Gammaray. Jun 7, 7pm, ¥8,500-9,500 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-3499-6669. www.creativeman.co.jp

Broadway

New York musical numbers sung by Greg Irwin, Donna Burke, etc. Dress code: business formal/black tie. Jun 7, 6:30pm, ¥9,000 (show only)/ ¥16,000 (dinner and show). Tokyo American Club. Nearest stn: Kamiyacho. Tel: 03-3440-0616. www. gregirwin.com

Analogfish

Three-piece melodic pop-rock. Jun 7, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Machina

Ex-members of Evanescence and Future of the World. Jun 7, 6:30pm, ¥3,000. Chelsea Hotel. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3770-1567. www. chelseahotel.jp

Love Psychedelico

J-pop duo inspired by 1960s rock. Jun 8, 6pm, ¥5,800 (adv). Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. lovepsychedelico.net

Hostess Club Weekender

Two-day fes with Travis, British Sea Power, and more. Jun 8-9, ¥7,900 (1 day)/ ¥13,900 (2 days) +1d. Yebisu Garden Hall. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.ynos.tv/ hostessclub

Guruguru Toiro

The quirkiest, loudest J-indie. Jun 8, 1pm; Jun 9, 1pm, ¥3,500 (1 day)/¥6,000 (2 days). Saitama Super Arena. Nearest stn: SaitamaShintoshin. Tel: 050-55330888.

Beyond The Blue

Battle of the bands with Five New Old, Pop Disaster and more. Jun 8, 1:30pm, ¥6,400 (adv)/ ¥6,900 (door) +1d. Yokohama Bay Hall. Nearest stn: Motomachi-Chukagai. Tel: 03-3475-9999. www. bayhall.jp/sch/event

Brahman

Hardcore punk from Ibaraki.

Visual kei. Jun 8, 5pm, ¥7,800 (adv) +1d. Akasaka Blitz. Nearest stn: Akasaka. Tel: 0570-084-003. www.l-tike.com

Oliver Mann

Operatic dark pop from Melbourne. Jun 8, 7:30pm, ¥2,000. Nanahari. Nearest stn: Hacchobori. Tel: 03-6806-6773. www.ftftftf.com

Jas Vegas

R&B pop princess. Jun 9, 6pm, ¥2,000 (adv) +1d. Loop. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. Tel: 03-34996669. www.creativeman.co.jp/ artist/2013/06jasmine

Richard Pinhas

French guitar virtuoso with Tatsuya Yoshida. Jun 9, 8pm, ¥3,000 (adv). Pit Inn. Nearest stn: Shinjuku Sanchome. Tel: 03-3354-2024. www.pit-inn. com

The D.O.T.

Side project of The Streets’ Mike Skinner and Rob Harvey from The Music. Jun 13, 7pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.liquidroom.net

Toshiki Kadomatsu

J-pop, AOR and R&B singersongwriter. Jun 14-16, ¥9,00011,000. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. www.billboard-live.com

The Bawdies

Progressive rock with sing-along choruses. Jun 27, 7:30pm; Jun 28, 7:30pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Astro Hall. Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae. Tel: 03-3499-6669. www. creativeman.co.jp

Quattro Burning

Ken Yokoyama and The Birthday. Jun 28, 7pm, ¥3,800 (adv)/ ¥4,300 (door) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Down Beat Ruler

The Ska Flames, Oi-Skall Mates and more. Jun 29, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv)/¥3,800 (door) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Shank

Punk rock trip with The Cherry Cokes and Jellyfish Flowers. Jul 1, 7pm, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

Gackt

Quirky and sometimes controversial musician. Jul 4, 7pm, ¥8,600 plus service charge. Yokohama Arena. Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama. Tel: 050-5533-0888. http:// eplus.jp

Sendai Kamotsu

Scandal

J-pop princesses disguised as rock chicks. Jun 20, 7pm; Jun 22, 7pm, . Zepp Diver City. Nearest stn: Daiba. www. red-hot.ne.jp

Rock Walk Vol. 7

Kyoto charmers The Hitch

Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke Trio with Marcus Gilmore

J-pop power ballad trio. Jul 17, 7:30pm; Jul 18, 7:30pm, ¥3,800 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 050-5533-0888. www.liquidroom.net

SiM

Rock punk reggae quartet. Jul 21, 6:30pm, ¥3,300 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn.com

Summer Madness

Magokoro Brothers and Andymori. Jul 24, 7pm, ¥4,200 (adv)/ ¥4,700 (door) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Fuji Rock Festival

Mother of all Japanese rock fests. Skrillex, Nine Inch Nails, The Cure, Vampire Weekend and more. Jul 26-Jul 28. Naeba Ski Resort. Nearest stn: Echigo Yuzawa. www.fujirockfestival. com

Rock in Japan Festival

Zazen Boys, Hey-Smith, Mongol 800 and more. Until-Aug 4. 10:30am, ¥11,500 (1 day)/ ¥22,000 (2 days)/¥30,000 (3 days). National Hitachi Kaihin Park. Nearest stn: Kaihinkoen. Tel: 0180-993-611. www. rijfes.jp

A-Nation Island

Music/dance fes with Kumi Koda, E-Girls, Scandal, etc. Aug 3-11, ¥4,500-7,500 (adv). Yoyogi National Gymnasium and Shibuya-AX. Nearest station: Harajuku. www.a-nation.net

Aerosonic

Aerosmith and B’z reunite for a rockin’ evening in Chiba. Aug 8, 5:30pm, ¥12,000-15,000 (adv). QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. Tel: 03-34996669. www.creativeman.co.jp/ artist/2013/08aerosonic

Zushi Fes

Beach festival with Totalfat, Scandal and more. Aug 9-11, ¥7,800 (one day)/ JPT23,400 (three days). Zushi Marina. Nearest stn: Riviera Zushi Marina Mae or Kotsubo. Tel: 0570-550-799. www.mtvjapan. com/zushifes2013

Sonicmania

Summer Sonic

A Flood of Circle

Missouri rock gods. Jun 20, 7pm, ¥6,000. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Jun 28, 7pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www.smash-jpn. com

Merengue

Chill the Punk

Emo-punk rockers Rizing 2 End, Rookiez is Punk’d, Wrong City and more. Jul 8, 7pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d. Milkyway. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.shibuyamilkyway.com

Story of the Year

Karyn White

Okinawan rock veterans. Jul 5, 6:30pm, ¥5,800 (adv). Nippon Budokan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. www. mongol800.jp

Mongol800

Tohoku’s craziest pop-rock outfit. Jul 11, 6:30pm, ¥5,500 (adv) +1d. Yokohama Bay Hall. Nearest stn: MotomachiChukagai. Tel: 050-55330888. www.bayhall.jp/sch/ event/130711.html

M-Flo

Hip-hop rhyme and club music masters. Jul 12, 7pm, ¥6,500 +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 0570-550-799. ticket.kyodotokyo.com

No More Fuckin’ Nukes

Hard-rock heavyweights Ken Yokoyama, Brahman, Slang and more. Jul 14, 3pm, ¥4,000 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. nomorefuckinnukes.com

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stn: Ueno. Tel: 049-247-1423.

Mo’some Tonebender and The Pees. Jul 15, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv)/¥4,000 (door). Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Summer Sonic pre-event with The Stone Roses, Pet Shop Boys and more. Aug 9, 10pm, ¥9,800 (adv) +1d/ ¥35,000 (weekend pass, adv) +1d. Makuhari Messe. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. Tel: 03-34996669. www.summersonic. com/2013/english

Old school rock ’n’ roll and soul for a modern audience. Jun 16, 6pm, ¥4,800. Yokohama Arena. Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama. www.l-tike.com Blues and ’70s rock-influenced trio. Jun 16, 6pm, ¥3,150 (adv) +1d. Zepp Diver City. Nearest stn: Daiba. www.red-hot.ne.jp

Mo’ Let’s Rock and Roll School

Metallica, Stone Roses, Muse, and more. Aug 10-11. Makuhari Messe. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www. summersonic.com

World Happiness

Kid-friendly fes with Midnight Suns, Michiko Shimizu, etc. Aug 11, ¥1,000-9,000 (adv). Yumenoshima Park. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. Tel: 0570-084632. www.world-happiness. com

R&B songstress from the States. Jun 8-9, ¥7,500-9,500. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. www.billboard-live.com

US jazz and fusion musicians. Until Jun 8. various times, ¥12,000. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote. co.jp

Fujitsu Concord Jazz Festival

Tribute to Norman Granz. Jun 9-10, ¥10,000. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote. co.jp

Lewis Nash Trio

Prolific US jazz drummer with his band. Jun 11-12. 6:30pm and 9pm, ¥6,500-8,500. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.cottonclubjapan. co.jp

Indigo Jam Unit

Japanese jazz assemblage. Jun 11, ¥4,900-6,900. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-3405-1133. www.billboard-live.com

Yuki Futami

Jazz piano phenomenon. Jun 22, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. Naru. Nearest stn: Ochanomizu. Tel: 03-3291-2321. www.jazz-naru. com

Nerima Tea Club

Strange and old European music played by tuba-player Gideon Juckes and his all-star quintet. Jun 22, 8pm, ¥3,000. Flying Teapot. Nearest stn: Ekoda. Tel: 03-59997971. www.geocities.jp/ flyingteapot1997

Kuana Torres Kahele

Hawaiian singer songwriter. Jun 29, ¥6,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www. cottonclubjapan.co.jp/en

CLASSICAL Maxim Vengerov

Grammy winning violinist and violist. Jun 12, 7pm; Jun 13, 7pm, ¥8,000-12,000. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongiitchome. Tel: 0570-550-799. www.kyodotokyo.com

Wiener Saengerknaben

The Vienna Boys’ Choir sings works by Strauss, Schubert and more. Until Jun 16, ¥1,000-7,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5353-9999. www. wsk-japan.org

After 7

Daniil Trifonov

Reunion of R&B group. Jun 12-13. 7 & 9:30pm, ¥6,5008,500. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. www.billboard-live.com

Follow Me

New York-based Kimiko Itoh sings mellow tunes. Jun 14, 7pm, ¥3,500. Mori no Hall. Nearest stn: Hashimoto. Tel: 042-742-9999. http://hall-net. or.jp

Hiramitsu Agatsuma

Shamisen artist. Jun 14, 6:30pm, ¥6,000. Yamaha Ginza Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza. Tel: 0570-550-799. www. kyodotokyo.com/kusabi2013

Giovanni Allevi

Italian pianist. Jun 15, ¥6,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Bluey

Incognito’s leader presents a tribute to Donald Byrd. Jun 16-18, ¥7,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote. co.jp

The Three Degrees

Piano recital of works by Chopin, Liszt and Seriabin. Jun 14, 7pm, ¥3,000-6,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5774-3040. www.japanarts.co.jp

156th Matinée Series

Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra plays Beethoven. Jun 15, 2pm, ¥1,500-¥7,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-00-4390. www. geigeki.jp

The Chamber Orchestra Sagamihara

Mozart-only program. Jun 22, 6:30pm, ¥2,500-5,000. Mori no Hall. Nearest stn: Hashimoto. Tel: 042-742-9999. hall-net. or.jp

Concert for Kids

The Magic Flute performed for children aged 3 and up. Jun 22, 11am & 2pm, ¥1,5002,500. Suntory Hall Blue Rose. Nearest stn: Roppongi Itchome. Tel: 03-3261-9933. www.smf.or.jp/kids

Tokyo Sinfonia in June

US female vocal outfit. Jun 17-18. 7 & 9:30pm, ¥7,0009,000. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. www.billboard-live.com

An ode to Holst, with soloist Nagisa Sakaki and Tamaki Goto. Jun 22, 7pm, ¥5,5006,000. Oji Hall. Nearest stn: Ginza. tickets@tokyosinfonia. com. www.tokyosinfonia.com

Joe Robinson

Seong-Jin Cho

Australian guitar player and vocalist. Jun 17-18, ¥5,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.cottonclubjapan. co.jp/en

Chen Min

JAZZ/WORLD Mike Price Jazz Quintet

Lau

Nordic and Celtic Music Party

Avant

Irish, Finnish and Swedish traditional music. Fiddle and kantele workshops. Jun 8, noon, free. Ueno Park. Nearest

British soul singer-songwriter. Jun 20-21, ¥6,500 & ¥8,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Texas-based instrumental fusion band. Jun 11-12. 7 & 9:30pm, ¥5,000. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-5485-0088. www.bluenote. co.jp

Snarky Puppy

Erhu player. Jun 19, ¥4,9006,900. Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-34051133. www.billboard-live.com

Soothing tunes before the rainy season starts. Jun 7, ¥2,500. Akasaka B Flat. Nearest stn: Akasaka. Tel: 03-5563-2563. www. mikepricejazz.com

Laura Mvula

Free-thinking visionaries with folk music roots. Jun 19, 7pm, ¥5,500 (adv)/ ¥6,000 +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3498-2881. www. club-quattro.com R&B singer-songwriter from the US. Jun 20-21, ¥8,400. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Korean pianist performs Beethoven, Chopin and more. Jun 24, 7pm, ¥4,500. Hamarikyu Asahi Hall. Nearest stn: Shibashi. Tel: 03-57743040. www.japanarts.co.jp

Dresdner Philharmonie

Works by Beethoven and Brahms. Jun 25, 7pm, ¥5,00013,000. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Jun 26, 7pm, ¥5,000-13,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5774-3040. www.japanarts.co.jp

Sarah Brightman

UK classical crossover soprano and dancer. Jul 1, 7pm; Jul 2, 7pm; Jul 4, 7pm; Jul 5, 7pm, ¥13,000-15,000. Tokyo International Forum Hall A. Nearest stn: Yurakucho. www.l-tike.com

STAGE

novel; both Japanese and UK productions available. Jul 11-15, ¥6,000-10,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3490-4949. www. bunkamura.co.jp/english/ orchard

Swan Lake

From the Royal Ballet Company of the UK. Jul 12-14, Various times, ¥ 7,000-22,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nbs.or.jp/ english

Breathing Monster

Hetero (2011)

French choreographer Myriam Gourfink will share the stage with two Japanese dancers at Yokohama’s waterfront Redbrick Warehouse, the first in the latest installment of the French Institute’s Danse Cross series. Gourfink is known for a theatrical approach to dance, and her work is intended to produce a state of meditation. Dancers Kaori Seki and Teita Iwabuchi were the recipients of a French government scholarship last year that allowed them to go to France for four months and join the National Centre for Contemporary Dance. Their new piece Conception is the result of this immersion. Yokohama Redbrick Warehouse no. 1, Jul 6-7, ¥3,000 (adv)/ ¥3,500 (door). Nearest stn: Minatomirai. http://meturl.com/2n

Stage Hair

International cast performs the Broadway classic. Until Jun 9, various times, ¥ 9,000-12,000. Theatre Orb. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.hairmusical.jp

Cosi fan tutte

Mozart’s tale of love, betrayal and fiancé swapping. Jun 9, 2pm; Jun 15, 2pm, ¥4,20023,100. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt. jac.go.jp/english

4 Stars: One World of Broadway Musicals

Lea Salona, Ramin Karimloo and others perform songs from Les Misérables and more. Jun 15, 6:30pm; Jun 16 & 18-19, 2pm; Jun 20, 2 & 6:30pm; Jun 21, 6:30pm; Jun 22, 2 & 6:30pm; Jun 23, 2pm, ¥8,000-11,500. Aoyama Round Theater. Nearest stn: Shibuya. kyodotokyo.com/4starsTokyo

An und Aus

By award-winning German playwright Roland Schimmelpfennig. Until Jun 23, various times, ¥3,150-5,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/english

Zou

Played by Ren Osugi, Megumi Okina and more. Until Jul 21, various times, ¥3,150-¥6,300. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/play

Shochiku Oh Kabuki

Witness the debut of kabuki performer Matagoro Nakamura. Jul 3, 1:30pm, ¥4,500-¥5,500. Green Hall. Nearest stn: SagamiOono. Tel: 042-742-9999.

Scheherazade

The story of the storyteller of One Thousand and One Nights. Jul 13, 2pm; Jul 14, 2pm; Jul 15, 2pm, ¥5,000-14,000. Bunkyo Civic Hall. Tel: 050-3776-6184. www.koransha.com/ballet/ shinzui2013

Women of Ireland

Full entertainment showcase with song, dance and live music. Jul 19, 7pmBunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.bunkamura. co.jp/english/orchard

Dance French Impressionist Dance

Music and imagery of Parisian artists meets dance. Jun 7, 7pm;

Jun 8, 3pm; Jun 9, 3pm, ¥3,1505,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 0120-489459. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/english

Trip Triptych

Modern dance. Jun 7, 7pm; Jun 8, 3pm; Jun 9, 3pm, ¥3,1505,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt. jac.go.jp/english

Danse/Tanz: M!M

An intimate look into friendship interpreted through dance. Choreographed by Laurent Chetouane. Jun 7, 7:30pm; Jun 8, 5pm, ¥2,500 (members and students)/ ¥3,000 (gen). Kanagawa Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Motomachi-Chukagai. Tel: 045-201-1514. http://meturl. com/dansetanz

Chouf Ouchouf

Moroccan acrobatic dance troupe. Until Jun 9, 7pm, ¥1,000-4,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-010-296. www.geigeki.jp/ performance/theater027

La Sylphide

The Tokyo Ballet performs one of the oldest surviving romantic ballets. Jun 15, 3pm; Jun 16, 3pm, ¥2,000-8,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-5721-8000. www. nbs.or.jp/english

Salves

French dance troupe Maguy Marin performs a piece of calculated chaos. Jun 15, 3pm; Jun 16, 3pm, ¥3,200-5,000. Saitama Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi. Tel: 048-858-5500. www.saf.or.jp

Don Quixote

Ballet performance of the Cervantes classic. Jun 22, 2pm; Jun 23, 2pm; Jun 29, 2pm; Jun 30, 2pm, ¥3,150-10,500. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 0120-489459. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/english

Alice in Wonderland

Clubbing FRIDAY 7

JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28 New Style Bar in Urayasu city!

International party & dj party nights @ Bristol23, Urayasu branch. Call 047-705-5744 for details. Entrance fee: ¥2,000/2 drinks. www.bristol23.com

Ageha

Agepa. Hip-hop: DJs U5, Sweet, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥2,500, (f)free. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www.ageha. com

Air

Motivation. House, electro: DJs Towa Tei, Moodman, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo. com

Sound Museum Vision

Dogenzaka Densetsu. Reggae: DJs Red Spider, Monster Lion, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.visiontokyo.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). Nearest stn: Roppongi. www. matrixbar.jp

Velours

Sweden Night. DJs Montblanc, Sunpocket Djs, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-57784777. www.velours.jp

Village

Fantastic. Hip-hop: DJ Hokuto and more. From 10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥2,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www. villagetokyo.com

Womb

Sterne. Techno: DJs Butch, Ishino, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www. womb.co.jp

SATURDAY 8

England’s Royal Ballet Company. Until Jul 7, Various times, ¥ 7,000-22,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno.

Ageha

A Gala Evening with The Royal Ballet

Air

Select scenes from Swan Lake, Beauty and the Beast, Don Quixote, and more. Jul 10, 6:30pm, ¥7,000-22,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nbs.or.jp/english

Matthew Bourne’s Dorian Gray Adaptaion of Oscar Wilde

The Wonderland. Trance: DJs Chicane, Yoda, etc. From 11pm, ¥4,000. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www.ageha.com Beat in Me. House, minimal: DJs Egal 3, Raha, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

The New Matrix Bar

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

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Agenda Listings The Room

All seats non-smoking

Otoko Oibon. Crossover, jazz: DJs Kobayashi, Oibon, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. theroom.jp

Unit

Minilogue Night. Trance DJs Marcus Henriksson, Sebastian Mullaert, etc: Live: Minilogue. From 11:30pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www. unit-tokyo.com

Velours

Music Sauce. DJs Cge, Paipai, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-57784777. www.velours.jp

Village

Grand Slam. Hip-hop DJs Nuckey, Tony Touch, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥2,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www. villagetokyo.com

Womb

Love & House World. House, progressive house: DJs Dantz, Takuya, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

SUNDAY 9 Air

The Morning beat. House, techno: DJ Pi-Ge and more. From midnight, ¥1,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. air-tokyo.com

The Room

Em. Nu classic: DJs Sazanami, Kitayama, etc. From midnight, ¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. theroom.jp

Village

Sunday Tribe. Hip-hop: DJs Kango, Hokuto, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www.villagetokyo.com

Womb

Edm. Edm, electro: DJs Yoshimasa, Sone, etc. From 12am, (m)¥2,500, (f)free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb. co.jp

THURSDAY 13 Sound Museum Vision

Bodega. Hip-hop: DJs Souljah, Tibby, etc. From 9pm, (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,500 w/2d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

Village

Celebration. Hip-hop: DJs Sah, Yaz, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www.

villagetokyo.com

FRIDAY 14 Ageha

J Style Summer Party. DJs Mark Panther, Komori, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥4,000, (f)¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www. ageha.com

Sound Museum Vision

Asovision. Electro, house: DJs Nakata, Tanaka, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.visiontokyo.com

The Room

Black Edition. Cosmic crossover DJs Sato, Nishida, etc: Live: Kuroda and Aces. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Womb

Thunderbolt. Edm, electro: DJs Lazy Rich, Yoshimasa, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-54590039. www.womb.co.jp

Exhibitions AKASAKA/ROPPONGI 21_21 Design Sight

Color Hunting. Directed by Dai Fujiwara. Jun 21-Oct 6, ¥500-1,000. Open Mon & Wed-Sun 11am-8pm, closed Tue. 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3475-2121. www.2121designsight.jp

Mori Art Museum

All You Need Is Love. Works from Chagall to Kusama. Until Sep 1, 10am-10pm (till 5pm on Tue), ¥1,500. Out of Doubt: Roppongi Crossing 2013. Contemporary art series held triennially. This installment takes a fresh look at a familiar intersection to most Tokyoites. Sep 21-Jan 13, ¥500-1,500. Open Mon & Wed-Sun 10am-10pm, Tue 10am-5pm. 6-10-1 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.mori.art. museum

Mori Arts Center Gallery

Harry Potter: The Exhibition. Interactive theatrical event. Audio tour available in English. Jun 22-Sep 16, ¥1,000-2,500. 52F Roppongi Hills Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.roppongihills. com/art/macg/

Suntory Museum of Art

“Mono no Are” and Japanese Beauty. Key motifs in Japanese art. Until Jun 16, Tani Buncho. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of a painter, poet and samurai. Jul 3-Aug 25, ¥800-1,300. Open Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun-Mon & hols 10am-6pm, closed Tue. 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www. suntory.jp/sma

The National Art Center, Tokyo

The Lady and the Unicorn. 16th century tapestries on loan from Musée de Cluny in Paris. Until Jul 15, ¥600-1,500. Open Wed-Mon 10am-6pm, closed Tue. 7-22-2 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.nact.jp

GINZA/KYOBASHI/ TOKYO Bridgestone Museum

Through Japanese Eyes: Paris, 1900-1945. Discover post-Meiji Restoration artists’ view of the city of love in the early 20th century. Until Jun 9, ¥500-800. Open Tue-Sun & hols 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-10-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.bridgestonemuseum.gr.jp

Craft Gallery, The National Museum of Modern Art

Body x Body x Body. An eye opening exploration of the human body. Jun 25-Sep 1, ¥70-200. Open Tue-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. 1-1 Kitanomaru-koen Chiyoda-Ku. Nearest stn: Takebashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.momat. go.jp/english

Mitsui Memorial Museum Kyosai: Noh and Kyogen Paintings. Hokusai’s greatest successor’s works focusing on Noh and Kyogen theatre artwork. Until Jun 16, ¥600-1,200. 7F Mitsui Main Bldg, 2-1-1 NihombashiMuromachi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Mitsukoshimae. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.mitsuimuseum.jp

National Film Center

Japanese Film Heritage. Permanent collection of works from the National Film Center. Until Apr 3, ¥40-200. Titled Film Stills: Publicity Photos for Japanese Cinema. Until Aug 7, ¥200. Open Tue-Sun 11am-6:30pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Kyobashi. Nearest stn: Kyobashi. www.momat.go.jp

National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo

Playback Artist Talk. Film digest of previous exhibitions and talks by the artists. Jun 14-Aug 4, ¥130-420. Seiho Takeuchi. Traditional Japanese paintings. Sep 3-Oct 14, ¥300-1,300. Unconsciousness of the City. Painting, photography and more. Until Aug 4, ¥420. Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-8pm. 3-7-6 Kyobashi. Nearest stn: Takebashi. www. momat.go.jp

HARAJUKU/AOYAMA Meiji Jingu Shrine Treasure House

The Tale of Genji Portrayed through Court Attire. Fashion. Until Jun 30, ¥500.

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Ceramics and Ukiyo-e Masterpieces from the Hagi Uragami Museum. Paintings and ceramics. Until Jul 15, ¥1,000-1,200. Ceramics and Ukiyo-e. Masterpieces from the Hagi Uragami Museum. Until Jul 15, ¥1,000-1,200. Tue-Sun, 10am-4:30pm. 6-5-1 MinamiAoyama, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www. nezu-muse.or.jp/en

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Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum

Pavilion. Collaboration with an art group, Chimpom. Painting, photograph and more. Until Jul 28, ¥600. 10am-6pm closed Tue. 6-1-19 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-34060801. www.taro-okamoto.or.jp

Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art

Fantastic Comics. Art by Katsuhika Hokusai and Kawanabe Kyosai. Until Jun 26, Free (JHS & under), ¥700 (HS & university students), ¥1,000 (gen). Handsome Boys and Good-looking Men of Edo. Hotties from the old days. Jul 2-Aug 25, ¥500-700. Open Tue-Sun 10:30am-5:30pm, closed Mon. 1-10-10 Jingumae. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp

SHIBUYA/EBISU The Watari-Um Museum of Contemporary Art

JR. Could art change the world? Photography. Until Jun 30, ¥1,000. Open Tue & Thu-Sun 11am-7pm, Wed 11am-9pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Jingumae. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. www. watarium.co.jp

Toguri Museum of Art

YUTENJI 03-3713-4958 JIYUGAOKA 03-3723-4785

Another of Tokyo’s great Bubble Era vanity projects, the hulking Edo-Tokyo Museum, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The surprisingly fun museum is holding an exhibition of excellent Edo era art, collected by US businessman Robert Feinberg. Feinberg became smitten with Japanese art when he visited New York’s Metropolitan museum in the 1970s, and went on to amass a large collection including pieces from the schools of Rinpa, Maruyama and others, as well as ukiyo-e prints. Edo-Tokyo Museum, until Jul 15, ¥650-1,300. Open Tue-Fri & Sun 9:30am-5:30pm, Sat 9:30am-7:30pm, closed Mon & hols. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp

Ebisu. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www. yamatane-museum.or.jp

SHINJUKU/ IKEBUKURO Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography

Kenji Taki Gallery

Kawai Gyokudo - Depicting Japan, Heart and Hearth. A special 140th birthday exhibition. Jun 8-Aug 4, ¥800-1,000. Open Tue-Fri 11am-5pm, closed Mon & hols. 3-12-36 Hiroo. Nearest stn:

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The Flowering of Edo Period Painting: Japanese Masterworks From The Feinberg Collection

European Mode 2013. Fashion. From rococo to the mini skirt. Until Jun 8, ¥200-500. Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Closed Sun and hols. Shinjuku Bunka Quint Bldg. 3-22-7 Yoyogi. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3299-2387. www.bunka.ac.jp/museum/ text/english.html

Yamatane Museum of Art

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Suzuki Kiitsu Cranes Edo period, 19th century (detail)

Kinrande Style Ko-Imari Ware. Brilliant Genroku Era Porcelain. Pottery. Until Jun 23, ¥1,000. 11am-5pm closed Mon. 1-11-3 Shoto Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0046. Nearest stn: Shinsen. Tel: 03-3465-0070. www.togurimuseum.or.jp/english

World Press Photo. Winners of the premier international competition in photojournalism. Jun 8-Aug 4, ¥400-700. Open Tue-Wed & Sat-Sun 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-13-3 Mita, Meguro-ku. Nearest stn: Ebisu. syabi.com

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Nezu Museum

Hidehiko Tajima. Illustrations. Until Jun 15, free. Open Tue-Sat noon-7pm, closed Sun-Mon & hols. 3-18-2 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www. kenjitaki.com

Photo Gallery Kitamura

Yume Fukei. Photography by Yuji Mori. Jun 20-26, free. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-5pm, closed Sun. 1-2-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo. Nearest stn: Shinjuku Gyoen-mae. Tel: 03-3341-7577.

Sokyu-sha Gallery

Sweden. Photography by Satomi Obara. Until Jun 9, free. Open

daily 1-7pm. 1-3-5 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Nearest stn: Shinjukugyoenmae. Tel: 03-3358-3974. www. sokyusha.com

Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery

Figurative Works of Tatsuoki Nambata. Abstract painting. Until Jun 23, ¥200. Umekayo. Photography. Until Jun 23, ¥600-1,000. Open Tue-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sat 11am-8pm. 3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.operacity. jp/en/ag

UENO National Museum of Nature and Science

Deep Sea. Earth’s last frontier with a rich biodiversity that we have only just begun to explore. Jul 6-Oct 6, ¥300-600 admission, plus special exhibition fee. Written in the Bodies Lived at the Capital Edo. Skeletons, sketches and garments. Until Jun 16, ¥600. Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-8pm, closed Mon. 7-20 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-3822-0111. www.kahaku. go.jp

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Agenda Listings The National Museum of Western Art

Michelangelo Buonarroti. Painting, sculpture and more. Sep 6-Nov 17, ¥700-1,400. Open daily 9:30am-5:30pm. 7-7 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nmwa.go.jp

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Leonardo da Vinci - Portraits of a Genius. Illustrations and oil paintings. Until Jun 30, ¥800-1,500. La Méditerranée dans les Collections du Louvre. Art and sculptures from the Louvre’s Mediterranean collection. Jul 20-Sep 23, ¥600-1,500. 8-36 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.tobikan.jp

Tokyo National Museum The Beauty of Japanese-style Calligraphy. Mixed media. A stunning collection of the evolution of kanji. Jul 13-Sep 8, ¥600-1,500. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5pm. 13-9 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.tnm.jp

OTHER AREAS Hara Museum of Contemporary Art

Sophie Calle: For the Last and First Time. Photography. Images and interviews with blind people. Until Jun 30, ¥500-1,000. Enoshima. Photography by Eiichiro Sakata. Jul 13-Sep 29, ¥500-1,000. Open Tue-Sun 11am-5pm, closed Mon. 4-7-25 Kita-Shinagawa. Nearest stn: Kita-shinagawa. Tel: 03-3445-0651. www. haramuseum.or.jp

National Museum of Japanese History

The Great Eastern Japan Earthquake and its Recovery Efforts. Images and talks by people from the area. Until Sep 23, ¥250-420. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Mon. 117 Jonai-cho, Sakura-shi. Nearest stn: Keisei-Sakura. www. rekihaku.ac.jp

Yokohama Museum of Art

free. 1-1, Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa-ken. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. www. yokohama-akarenga.jp

Sports BASEBALL Interleague

DeNA BayStars vs. Orix Buffaloes. Jun 8-9, 2pm, ¥2,000-¥8,000. Yokohama Stadium. Nearest stn: Kannai. Tel: 04-5661-1251. Tokyo Yakult Swallows vs. Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Jun 8-9, 3pm, ¥500-4,500. Jingu Stadium. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. Tel: 03-3404-8999. Yakult Swallows vs. Nippon-Ham Fighters. Jun 8-9, 3pm, ¥1,500-¥4,500. Jingu Stadium. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. Tel: 03-34048999. Yomiuri Giants vs. Rakuten Golden Eagles. Jun 8-9, 6pm, ¥1,000-¥5,900. Tokyo Dome. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. Lotte Marines vs. DeNA BayStars. Jun 12-13, 6:15pm, ¥1,800-¥4,800. QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: KaihinMakuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227. Seibu Lions vs. Chunichi Dragons. Jun 12-13, 6pm, ¥1,800-¥4,800. Seibu Dome. Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae. Tel: 04-2925-1141.

BOXING East Japan Rookie King Elimination

Jun 14, 5:45pm, ¥3,000-5,000. Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

KICKBOXING Nikudan Series

Jun 29, 5:30pm, ¥3,000-10,000. Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

MMA Krush.29

Jun 16, 6pm, ¥4,000-10,000. Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5351-8390.

Masterpieces of French Paintings. Artworks on loan from the State Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow. Jul 6-Sep 16, Masterpieces of French Paintings from the State Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. Works by Cezanne, Renoir and more. Jul 26-Sep 16, ¥800-1,300. Fri-Wed 10am-6pm. 3-4-1 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku. Nearest stn: Minato Mirai. www.yaf.or.jp/yma

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Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Jun 9, 12pm, ¥3,500-6,500. Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 019-687-2431.

Crossing: Between Cities and Deserts. A selection of movies, short films and media art. Jun 21-30,

Jun 22, 4:30pm, ¥6,000-50,000 +1d. Tokyo Dome City Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999. www. meetsport.jp/hall

Dolph Ziggler and more. Jul 4-Jul 5, 7pm, ¥3,000-7,000. Ryogoku Kokugikan. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 0570-550799. japantour13.wwe.co.jp 9.

RUGBY Japan vs. Wales

Jun 15, 2pm, ¥600-5,500. Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34013881. www.naash.go.jp/ chichibunomiya

Japan vs. USA

Jun 23, 12:10pm, ¥300-7,000. Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3401-3290. www.rugby-japan.jp/ticket

Tonga vs. Fiji

Jun 23, 2:10pm, ¥300-7,000. Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3401-3290. www.rugby-japan.jp/ticket

Festivals Tennou Sai

Portable shrine procession and other events. Jun 8-9, from 10am, free. Susanoo Shrine. Nearest station: Minami-Senju. Tel: 03-3891-8281. www. susanoo.or.jp/tennosai

Tokyo Pure Ice Festival

Cool off with an ice bar, ice sculptures, games, and more. Jun 9, 10am-4:30pm, free. Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-3828-5644. http://meturl. com/icefest

Paris-Sai

An outdoor festival with music, film, food, and family fun. Jul 13, 4:11:30pm, free. The French Institute. Nearest stn: Iidabashi. Tel: 03-5205-2500. www. institutfrancais.jp/tokyo

Kurihama Perry Festival

Parades, bazaar, black ships, performances and fireworks to mark the 160th anniversary of Perry’s landing. Jul 13, 10am-8:10pm, free. Kurihama port and its environs. Nearest station: Kurihama. www. kurihama.info/perry

Forums & Expos Interior Lifestyle

Jun 9, 6:30pm, ¥3,000-10,000. Ryogoku Kokugikan. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 03-3623-5111.

Global high design festival. Until Jun 7, 10am-6pm, free (adv registration)/¥2,000 (door). Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-3262-8456. www.interiorlifestyle.com

Michinoku 20th Anniversary

International Tokyo Toy Show

PRO WRESTLING Best of the Super Jr. XX

WWE Live

Featuring wrestlers John Cena,

Toys, stage shows, kids’ park and more. Jun 15, 9am-5pm; Jun 16, 9am-4pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-38292513. www.toys.or.jp/toyshow

Mynavi Global Career EXPO Summer

Job fair for global people. Until Jun 23, 11am-6pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon. global. mynavi.jp

Tokyo Summer Career Forum

Job fair for Japanese-English bilinguals. Until Jun 30, 10am-5pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-58045591. www.careerforum.net/ event

Handmade in Japan Fes

Stitch-n-Bitch

Bazaars & Markets

Sunday Spin

Crafts, hobby goods, accessories and more. Jul 20,-21, 11am-7pm, ¥500 (adv)/ ¥700 (door). Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. www.creema. jp/HMJ2013

Aoyama Marché

Organic farmers’ market. Every weekend. United Nations University. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-34560960.

Iidabashi Ramla Market

Every first and third Sun, 10am-4pm, Iidabashi Ramla. Nearest stn: Iidabashi.

Hanazono Shrine Market Every Sun, 8am-4pm, Hanazono Shrine. Nearest stn: Shinjuku-sanchome. Tel: 03-3200-3093.

Mottainai Flea Market

Over 100 Mottainai flea market vendors. Jun 8-9, 10am-4pm. Akihabara UDX. Nearest station: Akihabara. http:// mottainai.info/english

Earth Day Market

Jun 16, 10am-4pm, free. Yoyogi Park. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-3469-6081. www. earthdaymarket.com

Antique Jamboree

Haggle with 500 international dealers. Aug 2 for early buyers only. Aug 3-4, ¥800-3,000. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 0120-817-510. home.att.ne.jp/ sun/jambokun/antique

Shinagawa Intercity Flea Market

More than 120 vendors. Every Sun & hols, 9am-3pm, free. Shinagawa Intercity. Nearest stn: Shinagawa. http://meturl. com/shinflea

Yasukuni Shrine Antique Market

Every Sun, sunrise-sunset. Yasukuni Shrine. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 03-3261-8326.

Party and Purpose

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

14 • DOWNLOAD OUR PODCAST AT • PODCAST.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Meet fellow knitters, crocheters and sewers to talk, share ideas, eat, drink and create. Every first and third Tue, 7pm, free, Cafe Respekt. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.meetup.com/ TokyoStitchandBitch Hula-hoop it up in Yoyogi, no need to bring your own. Every 4th Sun, Yoyogi Park. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-34696081. http://meturl.com/ hoopinginjapan

Half-Fast Cyclists

Bicyclists of all treads meet for slide shows, lectures, ride-planning, etc. Every second Wed, 7pm, free, The Pink Cow. Nearest stn: Roppongi. cowmail@ thepinkcow.com

Learning First Aid and CPR Certification Course

Involves injury assessments, bandaging and splinting, and comes with a two-year certification. Jun 23, 9:30am5:30pm, ¥14,700. Minato-ku Labor and Welfare Hall. Nearest station: Tamachi. http://meturl. com/tokygaijinfirstaid

Yeats Day

Talks on the Irish poet’s life, with readings and music. Email with “Yeats Day in Japan 2013” in the subject line. Jun 22, 1-5:30pm, free. Room 501, Bldg 11, Waseda Campus, Waseda University. Nearest station: Waseda. tokyoembassy@ dfa.ie. www.facebook.com/ YeatsDayJapan

Symposium about Love

Two sessions aim to uncover the mysteries of human emotion. Reservations required. Jun 30, 1pm, free (MAMC members)/ ¥2,000 (non-members). Academy Hills. Nearest stn: Roppongi. http://meturl.com/ deepdarkness

Other Events

Community

Cosplay in Differ Ariake

A casual get-together over

All night cosplay event for over-18s. Jun 7, 11pm,

¥2,000 (cosplay)/ ¥3.000 (non-cosplay). Differ Ariake. Nearest stn: Ariake-tennis-nomori. info@cosplayheaven. jp. www.cosplayheaven.jp/ cosplayheaven.html

Bakuon Film Festival

Shocking and explosive flicks include Natural Born Killers, Heaven’s Gate, Carrie and more. May 31-Jun 8, various times, ¥1,000-5,000. Kichijoji Baus Theater. Nearest stn: Kichijoji. Tel: 0422-22-3555. www. facebook.com/bakuonfilmfes

Hello Kitty’ Alice Festival Hello Kitty’s Adventures in Puroland. Spring celebration. May 7-Jun 30, 10am-5pm, ¥4,000. Sanrio Puroland. Nearest stn: Odakyu Tama Center. Tel: 042-339-1111.

Komazawa Oktoberfest

Beer, sausage, music and prost! May 31-Jun 9, 4-10pm, free. Metropolitan Komazawa Olympic Park. Nearest stn: Komazawa-Daigaku. Tel: 03-3421-6431. http://oktoberfest.jp

Spring Day: Learn How to Take a Punch

International comedian’s outrageous stand-up show. Jun 15, 8pm, free. Our Space Studio. Nearest stn: Hatagaya. www. springdaycomedy.com

Nagoya Run for the Cure/ Walk for Life

4K/8K run and 4K walk to raise breast cancer awareness. Register via site. Jun 15, 9am, free (under 5s)/ ¥1,500 (6-12 yr olds)/ ¥3,000 (gen) participation fee. Morikoro Park, Nagakute. www. runforthecure.org/en/nagoyarun-for-the-cure

French Film and Workshop for Children

Screening of animated movie U by Serge Ellisalde and Gregoire Solotareff, followed by a film workshop. Film in French with Japanese subs. Jun 18, 4-6pm, ¥1,000. Ecole Saint Maur Auditorium. Nearest stn: Ishikawacho. Tel: 045-201-1514. http://meturl.com/cinegoutefr

Tokyo Arts Week

Two-week event with burlesque cabaret, comedy by Rock’n’LOL and Spring Day, acting workshops, etc. Until Jun 30, from ¥2,000. Trance Mission Theatre. Nearest stn: Sangubashi. www.trancemission.jp

Warrior Dash

Mud obstacle race. Jun 15-16, 8am, free (spectator)/ ¥1,000 (festival)/ ¥8,000 (adventure run). Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest, Kanagawa. Jun 22,-23, 8am, free (spectator)/ ¥1,000 (fest)/ ¥8,000 (run). Naeba Ski Resort. Nearest stn: Echigo Yuzawa. Tel: 03-4550-1199. www.warriordash.jp

J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE Reasonable prices. Free first time consultation

We can help you with:

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

Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School

Burlesque models pose for artstars and sketching newbies alike with food, drinks and arty socializing. Jun 19, 7pm, ¥2,000. The Pink Cow. Nearest stn: Roppongi. cowmail@ thepinkcow.com www. drsketchytokyo.wordpress. com

WADA Legal & Administrative Office • 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

dinner with people interested in personal development, organized by Tokyo Positive Thinkers. Every third Wed, 8pm, about ¥2,000, TBA

We can support you with: Visa and immigration Intellectual property rights (Patent, trademark, copyrights) Establishing a Company & Branch office 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

Imperial Palace

MOVIES BY DON MORTON

More reviews and theater details: metropolis.co.jp/movies

Metpod

OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN

North Korean “terrorists” orchestrate a meticulously coordinated air and ground assault on the White House (as IF), take the president hostage in the underground bunker and demand that American forces be

withdrawn from South Korea. Ah, but unbeknownst to them, a disgraced former chief of the Prez’s security detail (and a pal of the boss’s son, and ex-Special Forces) is somewhere in the House. So it’s Die Hard in Washington,

G.I. JOE: RETALIATION

ROMAN POLANSKI: A LIFE MEMOIR

Though about an Army unit based on a plastic toy mythos, this aggressively stupid (we’re talking Transformers here), tension-free fare for 10-year-olds plays more like a superhero movie. A very bad one. Soulless, boring, sloppily edited, overly populated, exposition heavy, and a “plot” that fairly screams out for quotation marks. Names: Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson, and a near-comatose Bruce Willis, though don’t blink or you’ll miss the latter. I gotta say though, that the rockclimbing ninja battle is kind of cool if you imagine it as, say, a demented, murderous Cirque du Soleil knife fight. Japanese title: G.I. Joe Back 2 Revenge. (110 min) SHOWING FROM JUN 8.

Roman Polanski’s 278-title filmography includes Rosemary’s Baby, Chinatown, Tess and The Pianist. Fairly straightforward documentary made by a close friend while the actor/director was under house arrest in Switzerland. He bares it all, personal as well as professional. We learn of his experiences in Poland du rin g the holocaust, h is early acting, and his move to film. Frank discussions include the losing of his pregnant wife Sharon Tate in the Manson murders. His 1977 statutory rape charge is not shied away from, though Polanski is cast in a favorable light. Illuminating and inspiring. (90 min)

eiga

EIGA: ©JIYU KOBO CO., LTD. TO ROME WITH LOVE: ©GRAVIER PRODUCTIONS,INC.PHOTO BY PHILIPPE ANTONELLO; OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN: ©OLYMPUS PRODUCTIONS,INC; THE TREE: © PHOTO : BARUCH RAFIC – LES FILMS DU POISSON/TAYLOR MEDIA – TOUS DROITS RÉSERVÉS – 2010; G.I. JOE RETALIATION: © 2013 PARAMOUNT PICTURES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. HASBRO AND ITS LOGO, G.I. JOE AND ALL RELATED CHARACTERS ARE TRADEMARKS OF HASBRO AND USED WITH PERMISSION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; STOKER: © 2012 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.;BULLET TO THE HEAD:© 2012 THE ESTATE OF REDMOND BARRY LLC.ALL RIGHT RESERVED.; ROMAN POLANSKI: A FILM MEMOIR: ©2011 ANAGRAM FILMS LIMITED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; OBLIVION: © 2013 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ocumentary f i l m m a ke r Sumiko Haneda is one of the pioneers of the genre in Japan and a groundbreaking visual artist for women in the country. Her films have been showcased around t he world , i nc lud i n g the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival. After releasing her first documentary in 1957, she has continually addressed social issues and injustices in Japan through her work. She produced her 1977 piece Usuzumi no Sakura (The Cherry Tree with Gray Blossoms) independently and won much acclaim with it—cementing her as one of Japan’s top documentarians. Soshite Akiko Wa, released in 1985, showed at the Kanebo International Women’s Film Week at the very first Tokyo International Film Festival and is well worthy of its current re-release. It follows Akiko Kaneda, who became obsessed with dance and the American choreographer, Martha Graham, at a young age. She moved to the US, dedicated herself to the art form and joined Graham’s ensemble. Every pore of Akiko’s being breathes a desire to express herself in dance and to leave words behind. Akiko becomes her own creative force and this powerful essay captures her development and a life dedicated to art. A wonderful film. (107 min) Rob Schwartz

but the increasingly tiresome Gerard Butler is the kind of actor that makes you miss Bruce Willis’s (never thought I’d say this) charisma. The Bulgarian-made CG of several D.C . la nd ma rks gett i n g d e m o l i s h e d a re c h e e s y but e f fe c t ive . T he b o dy count is high, the violence is brutal and frequent, and the dialogue is moronic. This is a sporadically entertaining, completely forgettable sledgehammer that won’t disappoint its target audience of hard-core action fans. But normal humans may share my disappointment with director A ntoine Fuqua, who made his name w it h 20 01’s m e m o r a b l e Training Day. Korean male model Rick Yune channels John Lone (not advised) to create a suitably smarmy villain. Morgan Freeman, Aaron Eckhart, Angela Bassett and Melissa Leo pick up paychecks. Japanese title: E nd of W hite Hou se. (118 m i n ) SHOWING FROM JUN 8.

STOKER

Korean director Chan-wook Park’s English-language debut is a disturbingly good, delightfully demented coming-of-age gothic romance. A grieving widow and her 18-year-old daughter take in, post-funeral, the deceased’s younger brother. As the three interact, the family dynamic, already pretty dysfunctional, goes through some macabre changes. Park applies his trademark visual mastery with operatic finesse, underlying every scene with repressed brutality and a state of dread. This wickedly weird creepiness may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s compellingly watchable. An impressive debut. (98 min)

movie news

NEW

TO ROME WITH LOVE

In his wonderfully scenic postcard from Rome, Woody Allen blends t he plau sible w it h t he su r re a l , lightly intercutting four unconne c te d s tor ie s ab out to d ay ’s celebrity culture and the need we all feel to be perceived, in some way and maybe just a little bit, as extraordinary. Too many actors to list, but the bittersweet storyline involving Alec Baldwin is some of the best writing Allen has done in years, and it holds up the sillier bits. Not among Allen’s greats, but molto bene. Bad news for foreign moviegoers: Half of it’s in Italian, but the subs are only in Japanese. M ay b e w a it to r e n t . J a p a n e s e title: Roma de Amore. (112 min) SHOWING FROM JUN 8.

BULLET TO THE HEAD

Sylvester Stallone, who at 66 is not getting any prettier, here plays an aging assassin out for revenge on those responsible for the death of a loved one. Those he goes after, u n sm i l i n g a nd con sciencele s s , i n c l u d e a c r o o k e d l aw ye r, a n African war criminal and a psycho m a n - m o u n t a i n e x- m e r c e n a r y. Ho hum. Forced, chemistry-free mismatched buddy-flick subplot involving Sung Kang sags. This two-fister from action legend Walter Hill (48 Hrs) is a surprise-free and familiar 90 minutes of shooting and killing and ax fights and bare-knuckle brawling. Zilch suspense. It’s a little sad. (91 min)

IMAGE.NET

ollywood actors will sometimes bring their kids to work to give them a fun day watchi n g m o m my a n d d a d dy play make believe on the other side of the camera. For Jaden Smith, the visit to the set placed him in front of the cameras. At the age of 7, he won critical praise for his turn as the son of a struggling businessman played by his father Will Smith in 2006’s The Pursuit of Happyness. Then he starred in the 2010 remake of The Karate Kid, this time without dad. “I felt jealous when I saw Jaden working with Jackie Chan,” Will recalled during a recent trip to Tokyo. “I said, ‘That’s my boy!’” Wanting to work together as a family again, the duo called M. Night Shyamalan to wish him a happy birthday and brought up an idea for a story set 100 years in the future. The result of that call is After Earth, a sci-fi epic that reunites the father and son on screen. “Jaden is 14 now, so he has learned to control his emotions,” the proud father says. “He has grown as an actor.” The new movie also allowed the younger Smith to see his father in a new light. “When I was little, I didn’t really understand what my dad’s work is,” Jaden said. “Now I see how serious and passionate he is. Movies last forever, so he wants to get the scene perfect.” After Earth opens in Japan June 21. Kevin Mcgue

THE TREE

When a young Australian husband and father dies, his willful, brooding young daughter (a good Morga n a D av ie s) de c l a re s t h at t he e nor mou s Moreton B ay f i g tree in their yard now houses his spirit, and it becomes the symbol of the family’s struggle to move on. It looms and protects, but also attracts bats and frogs and ruins the plumbing. The lived-in performance by the always-compelling C h a rlot te G a i n s b ou rg e levate s this metaphor-flogging treacle to a watchable level, but she can’t stop it from then descending into pseudomysticism. I’d love to pun that it grew on me. But it didn’t. Japanese title: Papa no Ki. (100 min)

OBLIVION

This pretty, forgettable exercise in competence will remind you of the many better movies to which it is glaringly indebted: Total Recall, The Matrix, I Am Legend, Star Wars and even WALL-E (though the star in that last one arguably had more range). Tom Cruise and Andrea Riseborough are some of the last humans on a post-apocalyptic Earth, monitoring maintenance and defense drones (aliens). Tom has a revelation, etc., etc. Slick looking until the cliches start piling up. This is an empty, self-serious Tom Cruise vehicle that never really achieves lift-off. Bombastic soundtrack. Go rent 2010’s Moon. (124 min)

cinematic underground

he undead invasion of cinema continues as Human Trust Cinema Sh ibuya (Cocot i B ld g .7,8F 1-23-16, Shibuya-ku; (www. ht- ci nem a .com ) unleashes the late st i n sta l l ment of the Zombie Film Olympics starting June 8. A Little Bit Zombie (pictu re d ) represents Canada and other walking dead flicks carrying the flags of the UK, Holland and Japan feature in this round…Late actor Shintaro Katsu is today best remembered for the Zatoichi jidaigeki series in which he starred as a blind, but highly-skilled, swordsman. But he also appeared in a variety of contemporary dramas and detective TV series, which feature in a retrospective at Cinema Vera (1-5 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku ; www.cinemavera.com), June 8-28… The great stars of early Showa-era cinema are feted in a program running June 8-July 5 at Jimbocho Theater (1-23 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku; http://jinbocho-theater. jp). Shin Saburi, Ken Uehara and Shuji Sano all got their start in the 1930s and their popularity allowed them to continue their careers will into the ‘50s. KM

#1002 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 15

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Harajuku Police Stn

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Burger Special Special Advertising Section

ALOHA ONO

ARMS

AS CLASSICS DINER

What’s the secret of a good burger? It should be large—but healthy. Ground beef from Hawaiian loco moco and freeze dried tofu for extra nutrition. Buns encrusted with aromatic grains.

What’s the secret of a good burger? Unique buns made with natural yeast; light, fluffy patties. Toppings are minced (except lettuce) to bring a full taste through the last bite.

What’s the secret of a good burger? AS gives you 100% pure beef minced with a knife so you can enjoy the steak-like texture; high-quality buns made from natural yeast—and American sizes.

Any crazy toppings? Original chili con carne; avocado.

Specialties? Avocado mushroom cheese burger (¥1,350); Popeye burger (¥1,150).

Any crazy toppings? Blue cheese and mushroom burger (¥1,470); apple and sour-cream burger (¥1,470).

Specialties? Mochiko chicken (¥525)—tender chicken crisped up with rice cake powder. Hawaiian dishes such as pancake and Kalua pig.

What’s the décor? Built with wood, the park side of the shop opens out in summer months. Antique décor combines with imported paint and wax for an American ambiance.

Specialties? The cheeseburgers (¥1,155). Customers can add extra patties for ¥420 each.

What’s the décor? Just near Shinjuku Central Park, you’ll feel you’re lounging in a beachside bar in sunny Hawaii. What else? On weekends and holidays from 8am-5pm, the Brunch Café serves pancakes and muffins only. 1F, 6-16-8, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Tel: 03-6279-0848 Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-11pm. Nearest stn: Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome http://aloha-ono.com

Any deals? Weekday lunches offer set drinks for ¥200 11am-4pm. Brunch is available Sat-Sun & hols from 8-10:45am. What else? Look out for their takeout branch Arms Picnic in Shinjuku Luminé. • 5-64-7 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku. Email: arms@utopia. ocn.ne.jp. Open Tue-Fri 11am-11pm, closed Mon (except hols), Sat-Sun & hols 8am-11pm • B2 Lumine, 1-1-5 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-6302-0039. Open daily 10am-10pm (when Lumine is open). Nearest stn: Shinjuku • Takeout & Delivery: 1-9-21 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-3466-5974. Open daily 11am-10pm. Nearest stn: Yoyogi Koen. www.arms-burger.com

What’s the décor? The restaurant might be new, but it has a homey, nostalgic feel to it, with 12,000 tiles used inside and out. Any deals? For weekday lunches (11am-3pm), get a hamburger with fries and a drink for ¥1,050. What else? The atmosphere and location in party town Roppongi; changing craft beers every month (check site for details). • B1F, Roppongi Hills Metro Hut, 6-4-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Open daily 11am-10pm. Tel: 03-6721-1581 • 1F, Orion Komazawa Bldg, 5-9-22 Yagumo, Meguroku. Tel: 03-5701-5033. Open Wed-Mon 9am-11pm, closed Tue. Nearest stn: Komazawa Daigaku or Toritsu Daigaku. www.asclassics.co.jp

AUTHENTIC

BROOKLYN PANCAKE HOUSE

BURGER MANIA

What’s the secret of a good burger? Authentic eschews fancy ingredients in favor of honing the basics and crafting each and every burger.

What’s the secret of a good burger? A healthy-sized patty (130g) of pure Japanese beef, cooked on an open-fire grill to bring out the natural flavor.

What’s the secret of a good burger? Refined patties made of Japanese beef that produce irresistible aromas, buns made with natural yeast, and fresh vegetables.

Any crazy toppings? Gorgonzola.

Any crazy toppings? Shirokane branch—mango. Hiroo—cherry.

Any crazy toppings? Broccoli, “peacheese” (with peach), and later this summer, kabayaki sauce (usually used for Japanese eel). Specialties? Broccoli cheese burger (¥1,270), and bacon cheese burger with crispy bacon (¥1,270). What’s the décor? Cute, simple, relaxed—and catered to the ska music grooving out the speakers. Any deals? During lunch 11am-4pm drinks are ¥200. Ask about their point-card system. What else? Open weekends and holidays—unlike other restaurants in the Akasaka/Tameike area. #101 Akasaka Chalet II Bldg, 2-18-19 Akasaka, Minato-ku Tel: 03-3505-8584 Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat-Sun & hols 11am-8pm Nearest stn: Akasaka or Tameike Sanno

Specialties? Premium Brooklyn hamburger with French fries (¥1,100) What’s the décor? Transport yourself to a secret, solitary house in Brooklyn. Any deals? The weekday lunch set (11:30am-4pm) comes with a drink and salad. What else? US-style buttermilk pancakes; New York strip steak (350g). 1F, 6-14-12 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-3409-2018 Open daily 11:30am-8pm Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae www.brooklyn-pancake-house.com

Specialties? Ultimate blue cheese burger (¥1,300), which uses two of the three major blue cheeses in the world, namely gorgonzola and Roquefort. Homemade pancake (¥700). What’s the décor? The owner traveled to New York with the designer and created a little version of the Big Apple in Tokyo. Any deals? Weekday lunches (11:30am-4pm) offer salad and optional large serving of fries for free, and a drink for ¥200 extra. Shirokane: 6-5-7 Shirokane, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Shirokanetakenawa. Tel: 03-3442-2200 Hiroo: 2F, Hiroo Rokko-kan Bldg, 5-15-25 MinamiAzabu, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Hiroo. Tel: 03-54427899. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm, Sat-Sun & hols 11am-10pm. www.burger-mania.com

#1002 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 17

www.arms-burger.com Truly a nature filled experience; enjoy a woody interior and plentiful sunlight at our open terrace style restaurant. * 16 Burgers * 11 Sandwiches * 6 Hot Dogs * Vegetarian burgers & sandwiches also available

Delivery now available in the Yoyogi Park area: any park exit, your event or your office (available only in our delivery zone)

Yoyogi-Sho Koen

ARMS Park Side Burger Shop Yoyogi-hachimon stn

Pets are always welcome.

Takeout & Delivery

Yo y o g i - k

5-64-7 Yoyogi Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 03-3466-5970. Open daily 11am-11pm Closed Mondays (except public holidays)

ami

Yoyogi-koen stn

zo n

1-9-21 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku. 03-3466-5974 Open daily 11am-10pm

Yoyogi Park West exit

B-2 Lumine, 1-1-5 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-6302-0039. Open daily 10am-10pm (when Lumine is open).

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Arms Picnic

Choose from three sizes! S 80g R 100g L 200g

Authentic hamburgers, sandwiches, shakes & desserts served up in a casual New York atmosphere.

Grilled Mushroom Burger ¥1,390 Limited quantities! 3 types of mushrooms topped with Gouda cheese

Tel. 03-3770-1951 www.hijiriya.co.jp Hot dog & Sandwiches

Burger Mania-Shirokane

Burger Mania-Hiroo

tel/fax 03-3442-2200 by train: 10minute by walk from Metro Nanboku-line,

Nearest stn: Hiroo, between exits 1 and 3 (next to Citibank). Tel: 03-5422-7899. Email: burgermania2008@gmail.com

1F 6-5-7 Shirokane Minato-ku, Tokyo

Mita-line "Shirokanetakanawa St" Exit 3

by bus: 87 Bus route between Shibuya St. and

2F Hiroo Rokkokan, 5-15-25 MinamiAzabu, Minato-ku..

See website for access: www.burger-mania.com Open hours: Weekdays 11:30am-11pm (10pm L.O) Sat, Sun, Pub Holidays 11am-11pm (10pm L.O) - Closed every 3rd Monday

Daikanyama Shop

Just steps from Main Exit

Tamachi St, bus stop "Kitazatokenkyujyomae"

Delivery service: Fine Dine Shirokane: 03-5791-3130 • Hiroo: 03-5775-1860 18 ● ADVERTISING SECTION

Just steps from

Daikanyama Sta! ATM

Naka-meguro Sta!

Moms welcome! Room for strollers available North Exit

East Exit

Smoked salmon and avocado sandwich ¥1240

WE ARE

HERE!

2-21-15 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku Open every day 11am-11pm (L.O. 10:00pm)

7-eleven

Naka-meguro sta To Shibuya GT Tower

WE ARE

HERE!

Tsutaya

2-1-1 Kami-Meguro, Meguro-ku Open daily 11am-10pm (Sun & hols 11am-8pm)

Burger Special Special Advertising Section

CAFÉ HOHOKAM What’s the secret of a good burger? Using the highest quality buns made from natural yeast. Any crazy toppings? The Apple and Gorgonzola Burger uses strong cheese and crisp ringo rings. Specialties? The signature Hohokam Burger features jalapenos, cheddar cheese and is topped with chili sauce. What’s the décor? A retro and modern feel designed with the Arizona desert in mind. Any deals? Weekday lunch specials from 11:30am-4pm. What else? There’s a covered outdoor terrace— complete with cacti—that can be used rain or shine. 2F, 3-22-14 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Open daily 11:30am~11pm (LO-10:30pm) Tel: 03-5775-5708 www.cafe-hohokam.com

CHILES MEXICAN GRILL AND SPORTS CANTINA What’s the secret of a good bur(ger)rito? A tasty burrito should be packed with warm beans and rice, fresh vegetables and authentic Mexican salsa. Any crazy toppings? Habanero peppers Specialties? Pibil burrito (¥980)—fried pork in orange sauce with Achiote Mayan roux; fajita platter for two (¥1,380)—grilled chicken and shio koji grilled steak What’s the décor? The casa of a true mexicano Any deals? The weekday lunch (11:30am-3:30pm) set includes a drink and salad or chips. Mexican beer and nachos for ¥900 and beers ¥400 on Tue-Fri 4-8pm. Any deals for Metropolis readers? 10% off on any main menu item from 3:30-6pm. What else? Shakes made from soy milk and a variety of sweets. 1-8-24 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Open daily 9am-9pm Tel: 03-6434-9693 http://meturl.com/chilesmex

HOT ROCKS ROPPONGI GRILL

MUNCH’S BURGER

What’s the secret of a good burger? Making it US-style, in terms of size and flavor, with 100% US beef and special sauces homemade from scratch.

What’s the secret of a good burger? Munch’s uses high-quality lean beef, certified Angus from the US. Staff handcut the beef every day to make each patty.

Any crazy toppings? The Elvis Burger (¥1,800) is shareable between two or three people, and includes pineapple, avocado and bacon among its toppings.

Any crazy toppings? Original smoked bacon (¥150)— order as much as you want—and original chili beans (¥450).

Specialties, prices? Big Rock Burger (¥1,250 yen), with egg, cheese, and “Rock” sauce containing more than 50 ingredients, served with spicy fries.

What are your specialties? The bacon cheese burger (¥1,400) is made with homemade smoked bacon to create a fine balance.

What’s the décor? Rock ’n’ roll American style, with great music, a bar and friendly staff.

What’s the décor? Choose your floor based on your mood—1F for those calm moments, and 2F if you’re feeling a little more lively. The high tables on 2F enable some prime burger watching.

Any deals? Happy hour 6-9pm—all drinks ¥500. Lunch set ¥780 with one free drink. Party plan for 60 people available. Mention Metropolis and get one free drink— including beer. Anything else? Chicken burgers made with Brazilian chicken and more, plus takeout, delivery and catering. Live music on Friday nights. 1-2F, Youkou Central Bldg, 3-15-22 Roppongi, Minatoku. Open daily 11am-5am Tel:03-6804-5416. http://meturl.com/hotrocksgrill

Any deals? At lunch get a meat dish with rice for ¥880, and add ¥150 for a drink. What else? Caesar salad with avocado and bacon (¥880 small; ¥1,380 large); chicken gumbo soup (¥580), homemade chili beans. 1-2F, I smart Bldg, 2-26-1 Shiba, Minato-ku Open Tue-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun & hols 11am-6pm, closed Mon (except hols). Closes when food runs out Nearest stn: Tamachi or Mita. http://munchs.jp

FRIJOLES BURRITOS & TACOS What’s the secret of a good bur(ger)rito? Making everything from scratch each day for delicous fresh and additive-free food . Any crazy toppings? Try the red-arbol salsa for a succulent spicy sensation. Specialties? The burritos from ¥890-1,040. What’s the décor? US folks will feel right at home. Everyone else will appreciate the authentic stateside experience. What else? Healthy grilled chicken and steak to black beans plus bilingual, friendly staff. Azabu-Juban: 1F, Hada Bldg, 2-3-5 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku. Tel 03-6459-4095. Open daily 11am-10pm (closes 3pm every 2nd Mon) Roppongi: 1F, Piramide Bldg., 6-6-9 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-6447-1433. Open daily 11am-10pm (closes 3pm every 2nd Sun) Akasaka: 1F, Common Akasaka Bldg, 2-11-13 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel 03-6459-1763. Open daily 11am-10pm (closes 3pm every 3rd Sun) www.frijoles.jp

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE IKEBUKURO What’s the secret of a good burger? Patties that are 100% pure beef—and mighty generous, too. Just enough lettuce and tomato, and a large bun to contain the burger-vegetable mixture. Any crazy toppings? Outback’s own “bloomin’ onion”—an onion cut flower-style, battered, and deep fried. Specialties? The bloomin’ burger (¥1,380) with crunchy bloomin’ onion chips and chili bloomin’ sauce. What’s the décor? The 7th-floor space by Ikebukuro east exit has a standing bar, a chic small dining room, and a wide main room with low counter seats in the middle and three 70-inch TVs to watch sporting events. 7F, Ikebukuro-Tokyu Bldg, 1-41-4 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku Tel: 03-5928-1391 Nearest stn: Ikebukuro Open Mon-Fri 5pm-12am, Sat-Sun & hols noon-12am www.outbacksteakhouse.co.jp/en

#1002 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 19

Try one of 13 AUTHENTIC 100% beef hamburgers, including the original BROCCOLI CHEESEBURGER or the monster AUTHENTIC BURGER or try our sandwiches!

or iD

Kusuri-no-Seijo (Chemist)

Authentic

AKASAKA 2-18-19

po ng

Metro Akasaka stn Toa Gakuin Akasaka Poplar Twin Tower

2 Metro Tameike-sanno stn #12 Exit

Ro p

Akasaka Sacas

Golf Partner

Inter Continental Hotel

Akasaka Ark Hills

7 min walk from Metro Akasaka Stn 5b Exit or Metro Tameike-Sanno Stn #12 Exit.

Open Every day! Mon-Fri: 11am-10:00pm (LO 9pm) Sat, Sun & Hol: 11:00am-8pm (LO 8pm)

TEL 03-3505-8584

2-18-19 Akasaka, Minato-ku

GOOD FOOD LOVES YOU! 7ELEVEN

OPEN Tue-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun & hols 11am-6pm, closed Mon (except hols).

MUNCH’S BURGER SHACK 1-2F I smart Bldg, 2-26-1 Shiba, Minato-ku. Tel：03-6435-3166 http://munchs.jp/

20 ● ADVERTISING SECTION

Burger Special Special Advertising Section

SAN FRANCISCO PEAKS

SASA

THE GREAT BURGER

What’s the secret of a good burger? 100% wagyu beef patties cooked over an open flame.

What’s the secret of a good burger? Homemade grilled-onion sauce. The sliced onions are sautéed and then cooked to perfection in the oven to bring out the rich flavor of the 100% Japanese beef patty.

What’s the secret of a good burger? Fluffy fresh-baked toasted buns made with natural yeast, a coarsely-ground juicy patty, daily market-fresh vegetables.

Any crazy toppings? Homemade chili, cooked with various spices to achieve the right degree of hotness and leave you begging for more.

Any crazy toppings? Gorgonzola meets baked apple; smoky hickory sauce.

Any crazy toppings? Gourmet pineapples. Specialties? Hot dogs and pancakes. What’s the décor? San Francisco industrial café.

Specialties? Grilled mushroom burger—limited number made daily (¥1,390; regular size).

Any deals? Weekday lunch set from 11:30am-4pm. What else? Choose which sausage you’d like for your hot dog, and your choice of draft beer. 3-28-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Open daily 11:30am-11pm (LO 10:30pm) Tel: 03-5775-5707 www.sf-peaks.com

What’s the décor? Surrounded by the warmth of wood, the store captures the essence of a Paris bistro. Any deals? Weekday lunches (11am-4pm) include one free drink. On weekends get a drink set with a burger of your choice for ¥300. What else? Beer from around the world and simple sides in case you fancy stopping by for just a drink. • 1F, Daikanyama-Pocketpark Bldg, 2-21-15 Ebisunishi, Shibuya-ku. Open daily 11am-10pm, closed every 3rd Tue. Tel: 03-3770-1951. • B1, Nakameguro GT Plaza Bldg, 2-1-1 Kami-Meguro, Meguro-ku. Tel: 03-37114449. Open daily 11am-10pm. www.hijiriya.co.jp

Meiji Dori

Specialties? Bacon cheese burger with French fries (¥1,350). What’s the décor? Open-minded South California style. Any deals? The weekday lunch set (11:30am-4pm) comes with drink and salad. What else? US-style buttermilk pancakes; sandwiches. 1F, 6-12-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-3406-1215 Open daily 11:30am-11pm Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae www.the-great-burger.com

Meijijingumae Stn

Post office

Abreuvoir café

#1002 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 21

GORGEOUS BAR &LOUNGE CONVENIENT STANDING CASH-BAR AREA SELECTED ALCOHOL & FOOD FROM ¥500

6/14 (FRI) JWM (JOHNNIE WALKER MUSIC) 6/21 (FRI) POMMERY NIGHT 6/28 (FRI) HEINEKEN NIGHT Thank you for coming to the Metropolis March Getsumatsu “Heineken × Brazilian Night” Party. Over 400 people attended! We have different theme parties every Friday! Live music, DJs, Dancers!!!

With fine drinks from our bar, eat and socialize in an exciting atmosphere for an unforgettable night!

1F Tokia Tokyo Bldg, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Nearest stations: Tokyo or Yurakucho. Open: Lunch 11am-2:30pm, Tea 2:30-5pm, Dinner (Mon-Fri) 5pm-4am LO 3:30am, (Weekends and hols.) 5pm-11pm LO 10pm

☎ 03-5222-1251www.miyoshi-grp.com/cardinal/pcm

Open 5pm-Late 1-23-1 Ebisu-Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-PIZZA!

+ 1 drink

ONLY ¥2000

03-3713-7067

www.tengokudo.jp Ebisu Garden Place

7-Eleven

Cooked in a special oven!

TENGOKUDO JR Ebisu

Spacious 5F terrace over looking central Shibuya!

Shibuya 1st Floor Standing Bar Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays

Dancers’ Showtime 8pm~ & 10pm~

Enjoy our great selections of Irish and European brews.

Happy Hour All ¥500!! Mon-Fri (except Public holidays) Open-7pm. Heineken 1 PINT, The Premium Malt’s 1 PINT, Glasses of wine, Cocktails

Free Drink! Mention Metropolis to receive a complementary Jim Bean

APA Hotel 1&2 Floor, Maruyamacho 20-1, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo TEL: 03-6416-9096

BLACK SHEEP Brewery RIDGEWAY Brewery and more than 15 varieties of beer SAMURAI CAFE

109 Dogenzaka 7 Eleven

22 • DOWNLOAD OUR PODCAST AT • PODCAST.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Hachiko Shibuya Stn 246

More details

http://failte.jp

Tokyu Plaza

5F, Sede Bldg. 1-5-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya OPEN 5:30pm-2am (Mon-Sat) 3-11pm (Sunday & hols) tel: 03-3476-7776

BITES

THE LATEST DISH ON FOOD & DRINK IN THE BIG CITY

COURTESY OF SUGAHARA GLASSWORKS INC

wedding

Dining Out

COURTESY OF YOKOHAMA BAYSIDE HOTEL TOKYO

onsidering the principal fear of most wedding planners in the West is a downpour, getting married in June in Japan—during tsuyu, the rainy season—seems a little risky. Which is why people don’t usually do it. However, there is a new trend of rokugatsu no hanayome (June brides), encouraged by goods such as this wedding cake topper from Nut2KK. Far from the Grecian tradition, rooted in a bid for a blessing from the god Juno, the “tradition” on these shores seems more a bid for commerce during a usually slow season. So spend a little more on this cake topper and aid a flagging industry. Considering the Japanese fondness for themed accessories, there may well be a whole line of marital raingear in the offing. Waterproof veil anyone? ¥5,460 online at www.nut2deco.com PHOTO BY JEFF W. RICHARDS

buffet

hen you hear of Mount Fuji beer glasses (http://meturl.com/fujiglasses) you might imagine a box of kitsch gifts on sale at one of Narita Airport’s souvenir shops. But these tasteful drinking vessels were garlanded with the Tokyo Midtown Award in 2008 for their design. Fill them up in the Japanese style of frothy pouring and behold as the sacred mountain appears before you (as it might look after a sandstorm). Made by Sugahara, the glasses (¥3,776 each, in a nod to the metric height of the peak) come in a wooden box and are gift-wrappable for free with a colored ribbon or a noshi commemorative attachment for special occasions. Add a gift card with a message of 100 characters, and shipping is ¥600 unless your order tops ¥15,000.

he problem with all-you-can-eat buffets is pacing yourself. After stuffing your face with delicious appetizers and good-looking mains, there’s nary a cubic centimeter of stomach space left for dessert. Those with a sweet tooth, then, should head to the Somer House restaurant’s Nighttime Dessert Buffet at the Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu. Fill up on ten different cakes, including seasonal fruit tarts, five different puddings served in wine glasses, and the proud pastries of the pâtissier en résidence. A few other foods—like antipasti; soup and sandwiches—are available for a rounder meal. But why carb-load on anything but an ice cream sandwich with hotel-baked bread and homemade ice cream? ¥3,150 (adults), ¥1,995 (kids aged 6-12), ¥1,050 (kids aged 3-5). Every Thu-Fri until Jun 28, 7:30-10:30pm. Reserve via tel: 045-682-2219 or online http://ybht.co.jp/en

COURTESY OF SANKT GALLEN BREWERY

COURTESY OF ACECOOK

glasses

d’oh-nuts

W beer

he owner of Sankt Gallen used to brew his ale in San Francisco until Japan relaxed regulations on microbrewing. And he continues to show his passion and skill through the winning of a host of awards, including the fruit-beer gong at the International Beer Competition for four recent years running. Quaff gold like the limited Pineapple Ale (¥1,980 for 3 x 330ml bottles) or buy a tasting pack like the Kanagawa Set (including two bottles of Shonan Gold and two of Yokohama XPA) for ¥2,430 including delivery. If you want to splash out on your own custom-made beer, order a 1,000-liter tank of it, ready in two months, for ¥1,700,000, including original recipe, ingredients, label design, delivery, and a large belly. Or slap your own label on 1,000 bottles of an already existing brew for ¥50,000. Order all this and more online at www.sanktgallenbrewery.com, or buy the brews at select shops and restaurants.

ith a name reminiscent of bovine urine, Calpis is a hard drink to swallow for many Anglophones in Japan. But Japanese folks have been quaffing it since way back in 1919, when the cultured milk drink was sold only as a concentrated beverage. Now it has gone the route of every other drink in the conbini, appearing in a multitude of varieties to satisfy the hyperactive urges of your modern consumer. That’s where Mister Donut comes in. We’re not exactly sure what the connection is between a cloudy yogurty beverage and a ring of fatty carbs, but the Calpis x Mister Donut (¥136-147), available in soda and strawberry flavors, has to be worth a try. Doesn’t it? © MISOD 13

kyoto

or a cup of soup with a twist, food company Acecook (eisukoku) has teamed up with groovy travel guide Co-Trip for an aesthetically pleasing package. A striking red wagasa (Japanese-style oil-paper umbrella) adorns the cover of Co-Trip’s latest guide to Kyoto—a far cry from the usual content overload found on tourism magazines here. The same design appears on the exterior of this instant dashi-based tofu soup with soy and green onions— reminiscent of the ancient capital’s cuisine. The cup includes a sachet of spice from a venerable Kyoto store founded in 1932. ¥150 at stores nationwide.

#1002 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 23

The majority of classified ads have moved online! O u r on l i ne cla s si f ie d ad system g ive s you more power to place and track you r ad s . A l l cla s si f ie d s subm itte d for busi ne ss purposes are considered commercial. Commercial and upgraded free ads can appear in any section. To place Job ads, go to http://classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Or get in touch by email at commercial@metropolis.co.jp

CLASSIFIEDS Metropolis and its subsequent 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. accepted. 5min walk from J R Ta m a c h i s t n . O p e n M o n - S a t . 03 - 5 4 4 2- 8 5 2 5 www.shibaura-dental.com/

1 AT YOUR SERVICE 1.1 HEALTH

and Japanese-speaking staff available. Inquiries: info@transporter-tokyo. co m w w w.t ra n s p o r te rtokyo.com/english/contact Te l : 0 3 - 6 7 1 5 - 9 3 9 1 F a x : 03-6715-9392 Address: 3-29-8 Nishi-Rokugo, Otaku, Tokyo

1.4 TRAVEL K I M I S H I M A D E N TA L OFFICE , MINAMI-AZABU, M I N AT O - K U , T O K YO . English-speaking dentist, 3min from Hiroo stn, specializing in both cosmetic a n d g e n e r a l d e n t i s t r y. State - of- t h e - a r t fa c i l it y and friendly staff. Special offer for Metropolis readers: 30% off dental check-up. 03-6277-4217 http://kimidental-office.com/

NIJO-SEITAIIN, JAPANESE CHIROPRACTIC HEALING AND BODY CARE. Our clients are those who have not recovered from hospital or chiropractic care elsewhere. We treat backache, hernias, shoulder discomfort, etc. Our head office was established in 1970 in Kyoto. Our Tokyo practitioner is a graduate of Fordham University in New York City. ¥9000/70min. 03-3449-1880 http://kazryu. jp kazryukaz@gmail.com 2 - 1 6 - 2 - 5 0 2 Ta k a n a w a , Minato-ku, Tokyo

P S Y C H I A T R Y / P SYC H OTH E R APY (心療内科 ). Dr. Ryuko Ishikawa, MD, licensed in both the US and Japan, wellrespected by international clients, available at Tajima Hospital, located in front of Ryogoku stn. National Insurance accepted. Appointments: 03-3634-6111 Ta j i m a H o s p i t a l : 2 -2 1 -1 Ryogoku, Sumida-ku, Tokyo

SHIBAURA DENTAL CLINIC ENGLISH-SPEAKING DENTIST. General and cosmetic dental clinic. Dentist is a graduate of Harvard Dental School, with over 20 years’ experience with dental practices in the USA, Japan. Blue Shield, Japanese National Insurance

JAPAN’S MOST AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE. If you feel like you’re throwing money away on insurance, come on over to HealthOne and start saving today! Three-, six- and 12-month plans. Inpatient/outpatient cove ra g e fo r i l l n e s s a n d injury. Online enrollment; pay by credit card or at convenience stores. www.healthone.jp info@ healthone.jp 050-3424-6713

SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY ( p h y s i c a l t h e r a p y) c a r e in Hiroo. Native Engli sh speaking therapists specializing in sports i n j u r i e s , p o s t- o p e ra t ive rehabilitation, back/neck pain, running related, headaches, orthotics, ergonomic consultations and women’s health. www. tokyophysio.com 03-34436769

1.2 HAIR & BEAUTY

O N LY C U T Z O N E s a l o n provides a hair cut service for only ¥1000. 5min walk from Kitasenju stn . Fri e n d ly En g l i s h speaking staff is available. Contact us at 03-3 8 821550. Open from 10am until 7pm, 7 days a week. http:// meturl.com/onlycutzone HAIR STYLIST FROM NEW YO RK , 17 years’ experience in Manhattan, haircut, color, H/L, etc., available. Contact Mika at a-hair. 03-5813-5077 http://a-hair-salon.jp

1.3 MOVING

CHEAPEST, QUICKEST AND SAFEST! Transporter Tokyo supports your moving and delivers your stuff. Moving for singles or couples from ¥12 ,000. Delivery (furniture, motorbikes, etc.) from ¥7000. English, French

N A R I TA A I R P O R T C A R / MINIVAN TRAN SFER SERVICE . Cheaper than a taxi . English - speaking d rive r. M e e t a n d g r e e t . Free baby seat. Luggage assistance . Dependable Safe - Ea sy- Q uic k Airpor t Tra n s fe r S e r vi c e . B O O K NOW! Email Reservation@ To k yo A i r p o r t e r. c o m . www.tokyoairporter.com

1.7 BUSINESS SERVICES

SUMIKAWA LAW OFFICE , a member of the Yokohama Bar As sociation , locate d in Kawasaki (next to Tokyo). We offer free email a dvice for vic tim s of car accidents. Contact us before reconciling with the insurance company. Lawyer Kei Sumikawa. Email: web@sumikawa.net http:// sumikawa.net

1.8 GENERAL SERVICES

Azabu-Juban, MinamiShinagawa, 30-second-2min walk from station. Cleaned every week. Free internet. First-month special offer ¥49,000-¥56,000/m! Utilities included. No key m o n e y ! 女性も安心！日本人用シェアハウスも有。全室インターネット・家具付個室。敷・礼金、仲介料、水道光熱費及び保証人不要！ 090 -2405 - 0022 mail@bauhousetokyo.com www.bauhousetokyo.com

SAKURA HOU SE . Leading multilingual real estate a g e n c y i n To k y o s i n c e 1992. Over 1600 furnished apartments and guest/ share house rooms, from ¥52,000/m, utilities included. No key money/ guarantor/agent fee. Contact us: 03-5330-5250 info @ s a kura - hou se .co m www.sakura-house.com

classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

Issue 1004 Issue 1006 FRI, JUNE 21

FRI, JULY 5

Deadline:

June 13, 3pm

June 27, 3pm

f r o n t d e s k@ a z a b u c o u r t . com www. azabucour t . com/ 03-3446-8610

EMERGENCY HOUSING. Non-profit Megumi House is available 24/7 to help the emergency housing needs of the international community. Since 1968. Donation for stay. Email for info. housinginjapan@yahoo. com RO P P O N G I S U M M E R S U B L E T, mid-May to mid-Sep. Fully furnished corner unit 2DK, washer/dryer, tiled bath, HS internet, printer, TV, aircon, kitchen bar, lots of sun ¥190,000/m. Discount possible. dmorton@ attglobal.net

2.3 RENT OVER ¥200,000

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000

F O N TA N A , e s t a b l i s h e d over 30 years ago. With a wide range of locations at competitive prices, our apartments and guesthouses are some of the best. Let our international team find you the perfect p l a c e t o l i v e i n To k y o . fo n t a n a @ g o l . c o m w w w. TokyoCityApartments.net 03-3382-0151

TO K YO A PA RT M E N T S . Corporate housing provider offering short and long-term a pa r tm e nts th roughout c e n t r a l To k y o . F u l l y customizable packages! Serviced, furnished and unfurnished apartments, relocation service, furniture rental, and property sale s and management . Please call 0120-957-520. www.tokyoapartments.jp

2.7 OFFICE SPACE

COMPASS OFFICES, MEGURO, S H I N AWAG A- KU. Fully furnished offices for 1-100 people, virtual offices and meeting rooms. Flexible te rm s . Co - wo rki n g a n d mobile working in the largest business lounge in Tokyo. Call 03-4540-1234, email jpsales@compassoffices.com or visit www.compassoffices. co.jp for more info.

3 EDUCATION 3.1 JAPANESE SCHOOLS JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY. Our flexible, affordable Japanese lessons can help you reach your communication goals for eve r yd ay c o n ve r s a t i o n , passing the JLPT, or reading newspapers or books. Individual or group classes at times and locations suitable for you. Contact Aoyama L a n g u a g e S c h o o l to d ay! 0 3 - 5 4 1 3 - 7 4 5 0 www.aoyama-school.com info@aoyama-school.com

3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS E A SY JAPAN E S E LE S SO N S taught in English at my place in Nerima-ku, Seibu Shinjuku line, 40min from Shinjuku. Beginners welcome. ¥1500/h. Contact me in English. rieko818jp@yahoo.co.jp www.123japaneseschool.jimdo.com 080-5071-5723

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE

LOVI N G BABY MA S SAG E . Teaching mothers, fathers and other family members professional baby massage and child yoga techniques from internationally acclaimed Peter Walker’s “Developmental Baby Massage” and “YogaGym”. E/J. Private sessions from ¥4000. Small groups from ¥3000. Four-session discount. Call Shino at 080 -3362- 04 29 or email babymassage123@gmail. com.

2 FIND A PLACE 2.1 GUESTHOUSE GREAT LOCATION AND SUPER C LEAN! Private/s h a re d furnished rooms in Akasaka,

I C H I I C O R P O R AT I O N . Over 600 affordable, quality-furnished apartments in central To k yo l o c a t i o n s . N o key m o n ey/g u a ra nto r/a g e nt fe e re quire d . N ew, clean apartments, simple contract system, full English support. Call us today! 03-5437-5233 www.japt.co.jp

S E RVI C E D A PA RTM E NT S in a quiet residential area of Hiroo. Studios and suites. 4min from Hiroo s t n . R a te s : D a i ly ¥ 78 0 0. Weekly ¥68 50 -/day. Monthly ¥5900-/day. Over three months ¥4950-/ day. Tax, utilities included.

2.4 HOUSE SHARE FOUR BEDROOM INDEPENDENT HOUSE FOR SHARE, 127m 2 , 4LDK, two toilets, solar panels, no gas bill, 6min walk to Urayasu stn ¥60,000/m. Seeking four people. reachvrushali@yahoo.com 090-4171-9218 SHARE WITH AN ENGLISHSPEAKING COUPLE? Accommodation in Tokyo? Practice speaking everyday English? Rent a room with a married international couple near Futako-Tamagawa, 16min from Shibuya ¥70,000/m. Would suit student or OL. cpitts@ gol.com 09049527314

TO ADVERTISE IN JAPAN’S NO.1 ENGLI SH MAGAZINE , log on at www.metropolis.co.jp/classifieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@metropolis.co.jp.

Chinese, English, French, Spanish, Japanese. Hello, I'm a Japanese man, 20s, living in Tokyo, seeking someone who I can practice E, Fr, Sp, Chn with. I'd be glad to help you improve your Japanese. Please feel free to contact me. zeno77dst@hotmail.com English and Japanese. American male, been in Japan awhile, but I still cannot speak J well. If you can help me out, please drop me a line. I can help you with E. We can also be friends. mostfunparty@yahoo.co.jp English and Japanese. Japanese female, 26, loves music, seeking language exchange partner around Tokyo. I play the guitar and write music. People having fun are always welcome, especially people who like music are awesome! mnphm721@ybb.ne.jp English and Japanese. I'm seeking English speakers who can help me with E. In exchange, I can help with your Japanese. I'm male, 30. I work at a design studio in Akasaka. Please contact me if you're interested. naotoflys@gmail.com English and Japanese. Hello, I am Japanese, 40, seeking a native and fluent English speaker for language

Metropolis reserves the right to refuse, cancel or edit any ad without notice. Metropolis takes no responsibility for the quality of items or services advertised. Please carefully examine vendors or items offered before commitment. Please be careful when contacting and arranging to meet people.

Visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp for complete listings. 24 • DOWNLOAD OUR PODCAST AT • PODCAST.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

exchange. My off days are Sat evening and Sun daytime. I hope we can benefit greatly by studying languages together. egosense@hotmail.co.jp English and Japanese. Hi, I'm a JM freelancer, 32, with a graduate degree from a US university, fluent English speaker, seeking a language exchange partner to maintain my English! Place: Shinjuku or Yoyogi. Time: flexible, but Thu preferred. takanotaro5555@ gmail.com English and Japanese. Japanese male, 28, working in Saitama, seeking English speaker to improve my English. Can meet after work (evening-night) on weekdays at cafes in Tokyo/Saitama. Can help your Japanese. Hobbies: flying, diving, traveling, cooking, piano. langexhyoma@gmail.com English and Japanese. Hi, I am an English guy seeking language exchange. I'm into traveling, hanging out, exploring Japan. Please teach me Japanese. n48jnfg@yahoo.com English and Japanese. Experienced Japanese tutor is seeking exchange partner. I can speak E. Please feel free to contact me. polovakia@hotmail.co.jp English and Japanese. Japanese female, 30s, finished school to be a Japanese teacher, seeks native English speaker for serious language exchange. Weekdays after 6pm in Shibuya. tomoko_japanese@hotmail.co.jp English and Japanese. Hi, I'm a JM office worker, 36, seeking a native English speaker living in Tokyo who wants to learn J. Please contact me. Thanks. sano_44@yahoo.co.jp English and Japanese. I am a Japanese mother of three seeking an American female for language and culture exchange in Kawasaki. Serious only, please. sakumoto@hotmail.com English and Japanese. Hi there, I'm male, 30, living in Tokyo, seeking a language exchange partner because I need to talk with a foreigner in business. I want to speak English more often. Let's have fun! nfukuno@gmail. com English and Japanese. Seeking language exchange partner around Higashi-Nakagami/Tachikawa. If you are interested, please drop me a message. smartguy@i.softbank.jp English and Japanese. I travel to the UK from time to time and would like to have casual language exchanges with British people. I'm 30, nonsmoker, available weekends in Kanagawa or Tokyo. Thanks. solfamusic7@yahoo. com Filipino and English. Filipino male, 30s, seeking English study/conversation partner(s) to improve IELTS score (currently TOEIC 950 and IELTS 7.0). Can meet on weekends at cafes in Tokyo or Saitama (Kawaguchi or Omiya) area. aris.mallari@ymail.com French and Japanese. Japanese seeks native French speaker for language exchange. Let's meet up at a cafe or elsewhere. I used to be a Japanese teacher in Japan and overseas. Let's have fun using the Japanese language in Tokyo! kejinto@yahoo.co.jp French, English, Japanese. European man seeking a language exchange partner to improve his Japanese. I can teach you Fr or E. Let's enjoy sharing our cultures and interests. West of Tokyo preferable, but Yokohama or central Tokyo are ok. understanding_life@ hotmail.com French, Japanese, Chinese, English. I'm seeking a language exchange with a native French speaker. In exchange, I offer you practice in E (my native language), J, or Mandarin Chn. I'm a French beginner, so need grounding in the basics. cb0387@live.com German, English, Japanese. Multilingual JF, late 30s, seeking exchange partner in central Tokyo to improve her German/English (and Japanese...). I like drinking, hiking, cycling, jogging, etc. Please drop me a line if you are interested. myheartskipsabeat0@gmail.com Italian and Japanese. Italian

professional living and working in central Tokyo seeking a native Japanese for language exchange. Serious exchange partner only, M/F, any age ok. giozomi@yahoo.co.uk Korean and Japanese. Japanese male, 40, seeks a native Korean speaker for Kor/J exchange. I like music, reading, cooking. I hope we can learn from each other and have some fun. deepgreenforest@mail.goo.ne.jp

3.6 LEARNING: GENERAL PACIFIC CULTURE CLUB gives you the opportunity to join workshops about Japanese culture: ikebana, c a l l i g ra p hy, ki m o n o , ko to ( a Japanese instrument). Available for groups or individuals. keiko.pac@ gmail.com 03-3391-1578

3.9 TEACH ME! Japanese. Need some help with my Japanese and kanji. I can help you learn English or pay you. I am friendly and like meeting interesting people. Let's be friends. funjamsession@yahoo.co.jp Private martial arts teacher sought. Interested in energy and meditation more than combat. I have an excellent meditation and multiple healing teacher (if anybody needs one, ask me). So, I’m more interested in the breathing and inner strength. Thank you. earth_travel_ joy@hotmail.com Violin. Seeking a professional teacher to teach me how to play the violin. mercedio@gmail.com

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Cabinet, Chinese-style (approximately H115xW100xD45cm), black lacquer, design of ornate birds and branches, brass hinges and fittings, two doors, central shelf, two drawers below, in very good condition ¥19,000. cpitts@gol. com 09049527314 Desk, very compact, in excellent condition, foldable study/office type ¥1500. savitasubramu@hotmail.com Furniture sale! IDC bookshelf, crockery unit, foldable desk, cupboard, shelf, two chests, patio set, in good condition. Details, photos available. savitasubramu@hotmail.com Furniture sale! Queen-sized bed, mattress, two bedside tables ¥65,000/ all. Dining table and four chairs ¥35,000. Coffee table ¥15,000. ¥100,000/all. usman@shahidfamily.org Picture frames, set of three, high quality, w/tapered mounts (40x51x2.5cm), adjustable hanging wire ¥3000/all. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line, or Hatchobori, Hibiya line. luci@gol.com Sofabed, modular, seats three, w/ chaise and storage, two pillows, folds down to single bed, in great condition. New ¥45,000. Sell ¥30,000/obo. Arrange own delivery. srothroc@gmail. com http://imgur.com/a/hz756 Storage cases, Nitori, plastic, 16 available, white (39x74x30cm) ¥700/ each. ¥2000/four. Pick up only HonKomagome. yeoks.yeoks@gmail.com Table, Actus, low, two piece set, functions as low table or TV/ entertainment unit, white base ( 9 0 x4 0 x 2 7. 5 c m ) , s i d e s h e l f (42x26x42cm) ¥15,000. Pick up Shintomicho/Hatchobori area. luci@ gol.com

4.2 APPLIANCES Appliance sale! N ati o n a l / Panasonic fridge, newer, digital, 400L (H179xW59xD66cm), five-door, w/ control panel and ice maker ¥30,000. Toshiba washer/dryer, 7kg ¥18,000. yumichan3498@gmail.com Dustbuster, Electrolux, two y/o ¥1500/ obo. Pick up Motomachi. marij333@ yahoo.com Fridge, Haier, 305L, in great condition ¥20,000. Hitachi washer ¥25,000. baytokyo13@gmail.com

Fryer, small, in good condition ¥1000. mizi2005@hotmail.com Hairdryer, Koizumi KHD-1236, w/Turbo and ion function, in good condition ¥1500. Kettle, in good, clean condition ¥1400. Kettle and delivery ¥1800. mizi2005@hotmail.com Rice cooker, Toshiba, 0.54L, white, in excellent condition ¥2800. Pick up Shintomicho/Hatchobori area. luci@ gol.com Rice cooker, Zujirushi, '10, as new ¥7000. Free delivery. mizi2005@ hotmail.com Toaster oven, convenient, new, w/box ¥2500. Vacuum, in good condition, used several months ¥2500. Details available. kiyokawa9773@gmail.com Washer, LG, fast, clean, silent, works perfectly, a couple of scratches on the panel, as new on the inside ¥3000. Pick up Sangenjaya. japanjohan@yahoo. co.jp

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Sofa (H80xW60xL110; s e a t : H 4 0 c m ) ; c o f fe e t a b l e (H30xL120xB40cm); oven, bought secondhand, but in good condition ¥5000. kaytan85@yahoo.com Sayonara sale! Sleeper sofa, dining table and four chairs, two additional small folding chairs, standing lamp, washer and rack, standing fan, large drying rack, etc. Pick up near KiyosumiShirakawa stn. alr2554@earthlink.net Sayonara sale! Sofabed, TV, kotatsu, tables, carpets, lights, kids' stuff (tricycle, play kitchen set), and more. Details and photos available. profscott2000@ yahoo.ca Sayonara sale! Shelves, kitchen furniture, appliances, lounge f u r n i t u re . D e t a i l s av a i l a b l e . h a p pyje n ny 197 9 @ h otm ail .co m http://677321661671443068.weebly. com Sayonara sale! Car seat, toys, movies, chairs, mirror, scanner, books, PC, SW, phone, etc. Nishi-Azabu. mmb--@web. de http://tokyosayonara.weebly.com/

4.6 FOR KIDS Blocks, Habermaass Corp., imported from Germany, set of 28, colorful, wooden, w/funny clown ¥2000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line, or Hatchobori, Hibiya line. luci@gol.com Children's bike seat, iBert safe-T-seat, great center of balance for steering with child in front, bought new in July '09, for kids up to 17kg, E/J documentation, all parts included ¥5000. Shinagawa. allen@mcintire.jp 090-5469-7675

4.7 FOR FREE Books, language training, Japanese and Dutch, Lonely Planet guides (mostly SE Asia), study guides for HS, teenage novels, adult novels. Pick up YokohamaMotomachi. marij333@yahoo.com Desk, for computers (120x60xH72cm), w/pull-out keyboard shelf. Pick up only. cpitts@gol.com 09049527314 Hats. Mini party top hats, glitter (diameter 12xH6cm). Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@ gol.com Sofabed, Ikea, new, and more. doug8edwards@hotmail.com

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS 5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT Exercise bike, hardly used ¥4000. rasapphire@yahoo.co.uk Racket, squash, Head, lightweight, never used, w/cover ¥3000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line, Hatchobori, Hibiya line. luci@gol.com Scuba diving equipment. Cobra dive computer; Tusa regulator; Mares BC vest, size L, black and blue; used once ¥150,000/all. lepierrot@hotmail.com 09039120343 Yoga mat, high quality, purple ¥1500. kiyokawa9773@gmail.com #1002 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 25

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT

7 GENERAL

Electric bass, Warwick Thumb BO 5, Ovangkol neck and body, Wenge fingerboard, active MEC J/J pickups, Warwick Just-A-Nut II, Warwick gig bag, in great condition ¥160,000. Pick up Ikebukuro. bloom_marc@hotmail.com Headphones. Ultrasone Edition 9 studio monitoring headphones, limited edition, in presentation box, brand new, unused ¥300,000. justcallmehenry@ gmail.com edwardsoperation.com Insect sounds, Ric Viers’ Blastwave, on USB drive, thousands of sounds, brand new, never plugged in. New $249. Sell ¥15,000. justcallmehenry@gmail.com edwardsoperation.com

5.4 BOOKS/CD/DVD Battlestar Galactica DVDs, region 1 (USA), in excellent condition, bought on Amazon US: seasons 1, 2.0, 2.5, 3, 4.0, Razor extended, only missing 4.5. hrmanu@gmail.com Chinese learning materials. Business Mandarin Kit by Asiapac Books, w/two textbooks, four CDs, travel tips, as new, never opened. New US$138. Sell ¥5500. cpitts@gol.com 09049527314

5.6 COLLECTORS Chair, L l oyd L o o m , b u c ke t (680x510x720mm), wicker (moss green), and steel (black), 1920s, from the UK, in excellent condition, certification available ¥38,000. luci@ gol.com Chess set, Mongolian (Shatar), on felt board, as new, w/all pieces and carry case ¥2000. luci@gol.com

6 VEHICLES 6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES

7.1 PHONES

P O R SC H E 9 11 (9 6 6) 4 S , R I G H T- H A N D D R I V E , ste el gray exte rior, all leather interior, original Carrozzeria navi system, ‘03 model, 66,000km, in pristine condition ¥4million/ obo. Email: cars@micklay. com www.youtube.com/ w a t c h? v = 5 Z a u Xu G c e w 8 090-3805-7141

6.2 MOTORBIKES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES D U C ATI M O N STE R M 8 0 0 S I E , 2003, 21,000km, dual exhaust, c a rb o n a c c e s s o ri e s , s e c u rit y system, new timing belt and clutch, upgraded gearing, Ventura rack, never toppled, kept in garage, well-maintained, all service records, shaken until Sep ¥500,000/obo. marantzfan564@yahoo.com

6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Hybrid bike, Australian import, large, best for someone 1.8m+, cross between road and mountain bike, in very good condition, 24 gears, suspension, w/lights and lock ¥30,000/obo. Near Kita-Senju. chobbs19@yahoo.co.uk Mountain bike, Cannondale Rize 5 XL, full suspension, aluminum, ridden off-road only once, bought new July '09, w/Topeak quick release rear MTX BeamRack, even quicker release MTX basket, all manuals, documentation. New ¥250,000. Sell ¥150,000. allen@ mcintire.jp 090-5469-7675 Mountain bike, Cannondale Trail SL 29ER 4, '13 model, hardtail, w/airfork 80mm, 29" wheels, brand new, frame size L, w/original invoice from YS Road. New ¥99,000. Sell ¥90,000. thokai01@gmail.com

JCE AUTOS - THE A U T O M O B I L E PROFESSIONALS. Specializing in car buy-backs, door-todoor shipping, long-term car storage and any other carrelated matters. If you need assistance with your car, we are here to help. Tel: 03-68683366 or 090 -9362- 5098 inquiries@jce-autos.jp www.jce-autos.jp

Road bike, Calamita Uno Steel, size 55, nine-speed, deep red, as new, B17 Brooks saddle, bullhorn bar, w/specialized helmet, proof of purchase available ¥60,000. Can help w/bike registration paperwork. damienkunik@hotmail.com Road bike, Land Rover, dark gray, 27" wheels, six gears, five y/o, in working condition ¥16,000. Pick up Nishi-Koyama or Gakugei-Daigaku. agusplastra@gmail.com

iPhone 4S 16GB, locked to SoftBank, black, w/original box, charger, headphones, etc., in excellent condition ¥20,000. Can meet anywhere in central Tokyo. abel_of_abacus@yahoo.com

7.3 MISCELLANEOUS Comforter, brand new, soft, warm, for bed or futon (150x210) ¥3000. kiyokawa9773@gmail.com Easel, Talens, large, wooden ¥5000/obo. Yokohama-Motomachi area. marij333@ yahoo.com Frying pan, new, w/diamond layer for frying without oil ¥5000. kiyokawa9773@gmail.com Nabe, glazed ceramic pot, Japanese, brand new, in packaging ¥1600. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@ gol.com Picnic blankets, two available, one red (140x115cm), one blue/white (138x90cm), waterproof (plastic-lined base), very lightweight, fold into convenient carry pouches ¥1000/each. Pick up Shintomicho or Hatchobori area. luci@ gol.com Suitcase, Samsonite, black, carry-on size (41x23x36cm; fully extended handle height: 105cm), brand new, used once ¥4500. Pick up Shintomicho/Hatchobori area. luci@gol.com

need to be professional. I want something easy and funny. Between July 3 and 6. davefortheflash@gmail.com http:// marrymeflashmob.blogspot.com.es/ +34635249611

Desktop, ThinkCentre M58p USFF, Core 2 Duo, A4 size, 4GB RAM, 1TB, DVD-R/W, Win 7 Pro, E/Office and 19" LCD ¥39,000. masui41@live.com Keyboard, wireless, 2.4GHz, w/trackball mouse, function keys for music player, volume, etc., good grip for use without table, in good condition ¥3000. Pick up Sangenjaya or Shibuya. japanjohan@ yahoo.co.jp Keypad, Logicool diNovo Mini, Bluetooth, good for Win 7 Media Center ¥12,000/obo. nrad_bob@hotmail.com Laptop, Dell E6400, 2.6GHz Core 2 Duo P8700, 8GB, 80GB HD, 7200RPM, E/Win 7 Pro, Office '10, 14", 6.6lbs, two eight-hour batteries, backlit keyboard ¥33,000. masui41@live.com

10 HELP! 10.1 HELP ME Flashmob in Tokyo. I'm organizing a flashmob in Tokyo because I want to propose to my girlfriend. I need volunteer dancers to help, but there's no

26 • DOWNLOAD OUR PODCAST AT • PODCAST.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

w w w. m etro p oli s .co. jp/ classifieds.

12.1 LET'S PARTY

10.2 SUPPORT NEED TO TALK? We’re here to listen. TELL LIFE LINE: free English-language a n o n y m o u s counseling, daily from 9am-11pm, by trained volunteers: 03-5774-0992. TELL COUNSELING CENTER: affordable multilingual psychotherapy by accre dite d Western-trained professionals, a CIGNA International Provider: 03-4550-1146. TELL website: www. telljp.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @TokyoLifeLine.

JAPAN I NTE R NATI O NAL PARTY - EARLY SUMMER SPECIAL. Sat, June 22, 6:309pm, Devi Fusion (Roppongi). Japan's biggest international party. 250 people expected. All-you-can-drink and free snacks. Japanese men: ¥4 0 0 0. O t h e r s : ¥3 0 0 0. M o b i l e : g e t yo u r f r i e n d . com/mobile/ jiparty@ hotmail.com 090-1735-5405 www.getyourfriend.com/

THE JAPAN HELPLINE, 24 hours a day, from anywhere, about 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/

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE

12 SOCIAL SCENE

WEST PAPUA: ONE SOUL , ONE PEOPLE . Fifty years ago, West Papua should have been an independent country. Since 1969, West Papua has been invaded and the people robbed of their rights, culture and country. Help support West Papuans’ desire to be free. http://tapol.gn.apc.org/ davidhalpern@7ymail.com ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS TOKYO. If you have a problem with drinking, we can help. English-speaking m e e t i n g s d a i ly. 0 3 -3 97 1 -147 1 inquiries@aatokyo.org http:// aatokyo.org Infertlity support group. TTC Tokyo is an infertility support group in Tokyo which provides informal opportunities for women and men experiencing infertility to connect with one another. Please visit our website for more info. www.ttctokyo.org Sober support group. I am looking to form a small sober support group in or near the Azabu area. Non-12 Step, meet on weekends. Just to share and support. Interested? Please reply. wide_ ide7@yahoo.com

J O I N T H E B I G G E S T, B E S T, M O S T P O P U L A R INTERNATIONAL PARTY! Great people, drinks and food! Meet new friends and party with nice people in a friendly atmosphere. Events in Tokyo (Ginza, Azabu Roppongi) and Osaka. ¥1500-¥2000. http ://gaitomo.com/ info@gaitomo.com

M Y TO K YO PA RT Y: J U N E PARTIES. Come make new friends and have a good time with our friendly parties. Our next parties are June 8 and 29. Two hours and 30 minutes of all-you-can-drink ¥2000. Check out our videos on YouTube (mytokyoparty), and our website. contact@ mytokyoparty.com http:// www.mytokyoparty.com

R O M E I N T E R N AT I O N A L CAFE. A relaxed space in Shibuya to chat with creative people regardless of nationality! International par tie s of 40 - 50 pe ople , keeping a friendly atmosphere. Sat, June 22 , 7pm, w/one drink and snacks ¥1500. http://cafe. rome.or.jp s-go@rome.or.jp 03-4513-8606

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS 13.1 SPORTS

I N T E R N AT I O N A L PA R T Y @ LEAFCUP. Come join us and have fun. Men ¥3000. Foreigners/women ¥2000. All-you-can-drink-and-eat. Shibuya and Omiya: June 8 and 22. Iidabashi and Yo k o h a m a : J u n e 1 5 a n d July 6. For more info: www. leafparty.com

TO ADVERTISE IN METROPOLIS, log on at

AMERICAN FOOTBALL . Nihon Unisys Bulls, X league Central Division, seeks fit players w/ US college football experience for all positions. P r a c t i c e e ve r y S a t / S u n from 10am-3pm (including meeting) in Tokyo/Saitama (time & venue subject to c h a n g e). At te n d a n c e a t practice must be over 60%. Please contact for tryout info and send your profile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail. com http://www.unisys.co.jp/ football/

JOBS

To advertise: commercial@metropolis.co.jp

FEMALES WANTED AT AN ELITE MEMBERS’ CAFE IN EBISU. Seeking women interested in drinking or having dinner with our male members. Must be over 18, speak Japanese, have proper ID and etiquette. Models, attractive looks a plus. Nothing suspicious and no sexual contact. ¥5000-¥20,000/h. Please contact in Japanese at 03-6412-7755 or ebisu_ limited_cafe@yahoo.co.jp. TOKYO SPORTS CAFE SE E KS FOR E IG N AN D JAPAN E S E WAITRESSES. From 6pm, negotiable working hours . ¥ 10 0 0 -¥ 1 50 0/ h . Proper visa required. ウェイトレス募集 . 03-5411-8389 or 090-3420-2550 wildwest103@yahoo.com www.tokyo-sportscafe.com/ NY BAY ROPPONGI is seeking young and energetic female Japanese and native English-speaking Westerners with Japanese skills for hall, kitchen and bartending positions. ¥1000-¥1500/h. Tel: 080-5478-3040 (anytime); 03-6804-3277 (7pm-5am) riat-hossen@nybay.jp www.nybay.jp SHOP STAFF WANTED AT WATCH S HOP I N G I NZA . We work w ith high-class watches. English and Japanese skills (speaking and writing) required. Full-time, w/commuting expenses. ¥220,000. Please contact 03-3835-1909 ( Jap a ne s e) or recruit@909.co.jp.

ALL-NATIONALITY TOUCH FO OTBALL . N o n - co nt a c t tag rugby (OZ tag) and Rugby League players. We play every Sat from 10am in Tatsumi. M/F and beginners welcome! Good exercise and fun! Many other activities such as BBQs and drinking parties! Email for details. tokyorugbyleague@ hotmail.com http://ameblo. jp/tokyo13warriors AMATEUR RUGBY LEAGUE PLAYERS . Japan ANZAC S Rugby League team is seeking Rugby League players for Japanese Rugby League official games from Apr to Sep. Everyone welcome. Contact for more details. japananzacs@gmail.com PLAY RUGBY. The Tokyo Crusaders are a friendly, but keen, international rugby club. Devoted to the game and its 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 . Ve r y u n i q u e new sport from Scotland. Using a tambourine -like instrument as a sports racquet, players hit a shuttlecock! We play two or three tim e s/m onth on we e ke n d s in Meguro with many socials. Join us!

03-4550-2929

CHAT HOSTS & TEACHERS WANTED BY LEAFCUP @ Tokyo, Iidabashi, Shibuya, Yokohama, Omiya. Seeking enthusiastic and proficient English, Korean, French, Spanish and/or German speakers who can teach and lead lively conversations. ¥1000-¥1500/h. Apply online: www.leafcup.com/job.htm

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, TOKYO. A fine hotel located near Tokyo stn is seeking bilingual waiter, waitress or bartender. To apply, send your E/J resume, w/photo, to recruitment.tokyo@shangri-la. com. Inquiries: 03-6739-7811 (www. shangri-la.com) C H I LD MODE LS WANTE D I M M E D I AT E LY F O R K I D S ’ CLOTHING PHOTO SHOOTS. Cody Coby is seeking child models. Qualifications: 3 years old to 6 years old. Application materials/resume, photo (full-body and a head-and-shoulders photo). Please email usami@codycoby. jp (attach jpeg photos), or send to Cody Coby Shop JAPAN Co. Ltd., Sunreminas 1F, 2-16-6, Ebisu-Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan 150-0022.

More details: www.tamjapan.org/en/ info@tamjapan.org

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT

Karate training partner required. Seeking someone who has practiced karate in the past. I hope to train oneon-one and share techniques. My karate style is Okinawan Goju-Ryu (close combat fighting). Please send a reply if interested. msavike@hotmail. com 09065635124

Reiki Group in Tokyo. This group is for people who are interested in reiki, healing, meditation, alternative health and other spiritual topics. Please visit our website for more info about upcoming free events. info@reikibyyuko.com http://www. reikibyyuko.com/reiki-events.htm

Squash in Tokyo. Seeking a partner to play squash anywhere in the Tokyo area. Beginner/intermediate players preferred. ankit1@gmail.com 09026679006

Zen meditation. 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

13.2 LEISURE MCARTHUR HEIGHTS. Take a break where General Douglas McArthur did! One hour from Tokyo by car or direct train. Beautiful cabins on the ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping. mcarthurheights@yahoo.com

13.4 MUSIC Buddy for playing acoustic guitar or keyboard sought by Japanese amateur singer. I like English rock, pop, '80s pop. Acoustic or nylon guitar preferred. gozira713@hotmail.co.jp Male or female singer sought to make a new duo. JM guitarist in the Tokyo area. Let's play and make music together! Beginners welcome. I like pop/rock. riku_hiroxx@hotmail.com Smooth jazz keyboardist needed with solid chops to do some funky, cool, smooth jazz for semi-pro gigs. kenzenjazz1nyo@gmail.com

14 PERSONALS 14.1 FRIENDS Interested in Hawaii/beaches? Asian-American guy, 43, from Hawaii, seeking an internationally minded Japanese person. I would like to exchange languages and talk about the good life. jamesaloha@ymail.com Outdoor yoga friends. Hi, I'm seeking yoga friends to do yoga together on weekends around midtown parks. I don't mind if we become a large group. I also enjoy jogging! Let's enjoy fresh air and the outdoors together! tokyomiffy@gmail.com Seeking activity partners for outdoor activities (hiking, biking, running, camping), and sports like badminton and squash, through the week. Also happy to try new restaurants and bars together. ankit1@ gmail.com

vedaplus-motoazabu.jp

Free trial lesson available * Basic Yoga * Anti stress Yoga * Relax Yoga * Self Care Yoga

Azabujuban stn. (Exit 4, 7) 03-6434-5448 info@vedaplus-motoazabu.jp 3-10-9-201, Sansui Heim, Motoazabu, Minato Ku, Tokyo 106-0046

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Admission Fee: ¥15,750 ¥0 Trial Machine Private Lesson: ¥10,000 ¥8,400 Package 3 Machine Private Lessons

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03-6425-7054 • roppongi@basipilates.jp www.basipilates.jp/english/ #1002 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 27

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Seeking fashion friends in Tokyo. Hi! I'm a foreign designer living in Tokyo. I'm seeking friends interested in design and fashion to talk and go out with. ningen07@yahoo.com

seeking foreign female. Let's enjoy new experiences and feel happier together. Nonsmoker preferred. Waiting for your response! Let's start with dialogue. lifegoes2012@mail.goo.ne.jp

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN

Big black guy for you. I want to give beautiful ladies lots of fun. Satisfaction guaranteed. Skilled, very experienced, well-muscled, no strings attached. Find what you've been missing. tokioitelive@gmail.com

WESTERN LADY SOUGHT by Japanese male, 36, speaker of Engli s h an d Fre nc h . If you're seeking a serious relationship with a Japanese guy, I'm the right person. Let's meet in Tokyo/Yokohama. My hobbies are traveling, driving, tennis, guitar, drums. kohshida1@ gmail.com American seeking long-term relationship. American living in Japan, into sports, movies, drinking, seeking something real. Looks and age not important. Please message me. Photo would be nice so I know who I'm talking to. Cheers! frankieyo3000@ hotmail.com Attractive single Japanese male seeks a nice Western or Japanese female for friendship and possibly more. Nonsmokers preferred. I am confident that I can create fun times for you. If you are ready, email me! cioinjapan@gmail.com Attractive, cute and gentle SJM

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Big Italian, 30, seeking a Japanese female for sex. mirko382@hotmail.it Big? I'm seeking a large girlfriend for good times and romance. Chemistry is more important than looks, but I want a big woman with curves, around 25-40. I'm a tall, skinny white guy, 35. lovecatojp123@gmail.com

Seeking something long-term. If you are serious, cute and clever, then please drop me a line. mostfunparty@ yahoo.co.jp Escape routine, just for a moment, no strings attached, doing things you've always wanted to do, but didn't... Caucasian male, 39, seeks exciting companion for a few days in Tokyo each month. tokyo_night_out@yahoo.com Exotic and bilingual JM businessman in Tokyo, early 30s, good-looking, friendly, seeking a sincere, romantic, kind woman who enjoys movies and traveling for a serious relationship. Please reply w/details. Let's have a good time together! pirlo_cucchiaio@ hotmail.com

Black male seeking JF. Hi, black male living in the Tokyo area, speak Japanese a little, seeking a Japanese female, 30-44, for a good relationship. Let's be friends first. Regards. harry. ben87@yahoo.com

I am an analog person. SJM, 40s, cool and honest, seeks nice female friend who is open-minded and likes to communicate. I enjoy movies, rock music, taking pictures, relaxing walks, etc. Let’s get to know each other. seventh-heaven999@mail.goo.ne.jp

Cocktail evening. Let's start the evening with cocktails at the Regency Club, then take it from there. Tell me why you're the one! scottishgaijin@ gmail.com

Immortal beloved or one-night stand. Let’s meet for a nice dinner and a love hotel later if we click. I am tall, professional, American, handsome. doug8edwards@hotmail.com

Could you be the one? Successful and funny American male desires a clever, funny, level-headed partner.

JM from Belgium. Hi, I'm a JM who was in Brussels till last Tue when I returned to Japan. So, I am seeking

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friends to hang out with on the weekend. I can speak some English and Spanish. piropiro08@hotmail.co.jp Soulmate sought by European, 31, living and working in Tokyo. Seeking a woman with her own personality and opinions, who is creative, culturally open-minded, and is able to add some humor to life. tallulahbcn@gmail.com Summer fun. European professional, 190, blond, very friendly and fun, is seeking a fun and open-minded JF, 20-35, for a romantic summer, beach walks, travel and more. Email w/photo. eurotiger160@yahoo.co.jp Too much fun to handle? Work in fashion, did some modeling. I am tall, good-looking, fit, spontaneous, smooth, respectful, seeking a cute girl who knows how to have fun. Let's go out for drinks and see how it goes. hypergogo@ymail.com Venetian man seeking Asian woman. I am from Venice and am working in Japan. I am interested in Asian women. I am good at Italian cuisine. Not interested in short-term relationships, but friendly, passionate. marcofromvenezia@yahoo.com

14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN

He must be a tall, professional, nonsmoking single European, late 30s40s, living in central Tokyo. Serious only, please. melograno@hotmail.co.jp Français? Are you a French guy, late 20s-early 40s, seeking a serious relationship (possibly leading to marriage) with a Japanese female? If yes, please email me. Serious only, please. sucre735@gmail.com French? Tall, professional single Frenchman, late 30s-40s, living and working in central Tokyo, sought by very stylish, attractive SJF. Nonsmoker preferred. Language exchange is also welcome. J'espère que vous m'écrirez! melograno@hotmail.co.jp Hiking/cycling/walking partner. I would like to get to know a man who likes doing activities in nature, 30s40s. I like hiking, cycling, walking, etc. No strings attached ok, but no married men, please. myheartskipsabeat0@ gmail.com Love and warmth in life. Attractive, interesting, elegant, yet very natural SJF, approaching mid-40s, seeks longterm relationship with an educated, smart and caring man. I value both oneness and togetherness. Singles only, please. sputnik_sweetheart19@ yahoo.co.jp Music life. SJF, has lived in Europe, seeks blond-haired, very Europeanstyle single male to enjoy music and spend time together. tokyomiffy@ gmail.com

SINGLE? Then this is for you. Singles-only dating parties every Fri night for foreign men and Japanese women. Leave the event with a new date! Always more women than men. FREE if signing up in advance! Otherwise, ¥2000. info@exeo-international.com

JAPANESE WOMEN SEEK MEN for serious relationships possibly leading to marriage. Confidential & affordable, since 1994. Contact TMA for free pamphlet in English or Japanese. tma@mxa.mesh. ne.jp http://tma-marriage. com 0120-937-909

Russian female, 40, 173cm, single, well-educated, working at a Japanese company, likes swimming, seeks a soulmate: tall, intelligent SWM, 39-50, living in Japan. lenol@hotmail.co.jp Seeking boyfriend. Seeking friends who like drinking wine, eating, traveling for hopefully a long-term relationship. Email me and I'll send my photo. hacchiru@gmail.com Seeking excitement. Pretty British SWF, 23, seeks honest, laid-back Western man, 24-30, tall would be a bonus! I enjoy travel, art, food and films. Photos on request. Send me a message and a photo of you! clare@ clarejones.co.uk Sexy outside and cute inside! Is that the kind of girl you seek? I'm a professional seeking a fit, nonsmoking gentleman who is ready to settle down with a lovely single girl. Tired of games? Drop me a line. sasapandacyan@mail. goo.ne.jp Who knows? Japanese female, 30, travels often, but lately been spending more time in Japan, hoping to meet someone new to spend time with. Nonsmoking professional preferred. Tell me about yourself a bit in your first message. Thanks. solfamusic7@ yahoo.com To advertise in Japan’s no.1 English magazine, log on at www.metropolis. co.jp/classifieds or email your commercial ads to commercial@ metropolis.co.jp.

14.4 GAY & LESBIAN L AV I S H DAT E S A N D INDULGENT NIGHTS - WE CREATE OPPORTUNITIES for elite foreign males to meet elegant Japanese females. Start with a luxurious dinner date,take the night wh e re yo u wa nt it to g o. Fresh, young women join our club every day. Try our free one-month trial offer: f ir st d ate i s o n u s! 0120 675-858 (E) international@ u n i ve r s e - c l u b . j p h t t p : // universe-club.jp/en African-American sought. I am a pretty SJF, around 40, working in central Tokyo, dedicated, wellmannered, with a nice personality. I am seeking an American office worker in Tokyo who is ready to settle down. Single, no kids only. skasumi11@yahoo. co.jp European. Very attractive, stylish and feminine SJF is seeking a boyfriend.

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B I S EXUAL B E AUT Y, b eautiful , slim, tall, blonde, seeks same, but brunette, for a caring, loving and respectful long-term relationship. Must be mature and preferably over 35. I seek a female, not a m ale an d hi s fe m ale par tne r. in2deepintokyo@hotmail.com

14.5 ESCORTS

24 HOURS/7 DAYS. Sweet, young Japanese and European girls available only for VIP executives. Are you a lonely gentleman? She is waiting… Now hiring girls. 090-38007428 onvo4z507871w4n@ ezeweb.ne.jp

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JAPAN’S COMPLETE ADULT NIGHTLIFE GUIDE FOR FOREIGNERS! Having trouble finding a Japanese girl for fun? Come t o h t t p : //e r o l i n . n e t a n d check all possible clubs , and escorts for foreigners! When you visit, don’t forget to mention “Erolin Guide”! info@erolin.net ASIAN MYSTIQUE E S C O R T S p r ov i d e s g i r l next-door type escorts for your girlfriend experience in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fu ku o k a . S e x y, f r i e n d l y Japanese escorts provide the fun, professional staff provide peace of m i n d . O p e n 2 4 / 7, s a m e day orders welcome. asianmystiquejp@yahoo. co.jp www.asianmystique. com 080-5454-9795

14.6 AND OTHERS M気ありの女の人と出会いたい。

東京出張が多いアメリカ人３５才経営者。外見は良い。素敵な女性と出会いたい。経験豊富なので、経験なくても安心してね。まずは美味しい食事・楽しいデートから始めましょう。全てを任したい方に推薦。人生を満喫しようよ。宜しくね。 tokyoprince4u@hotmail.com

Spanking! Need a good spanking? I'll give you whatever you require! スパンキ

ングを要求する女性、私、英国男性、やってあげますよ。 junkhenry3@gmail.com

Two girls for a threesome. Clean and polite black guy, 190cm, athletic, seeks two females for threesome. I promise you will not be disappointed. At my house or a hotel. Waiting to hear from curious ones. rmlywe@yahoo.co.jp

BY CATHRYN MOE

Horoscope

♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck

ARIES

TAURUS

Communication is everything and you are the master—riding the fastest steed down halls of shiniest marble, surrounded by applause and possible interrogation. Ruler Mars rushes you through the audience as the Sun beams. Your feelings are involved but you don’t have time to stop and analyze. Jupiter will enlarge the rumors, Dark Moon Lilith will bring up envy, and Pallas Athene will save the day. Whew!

Venus has joined Mercury. If you’ve been following the clues, you have a good idea of where you stand with cuddly-cozy or not-so-available connections. Either way, you’re busy making money or dealing with “things” so you’re already feeling full. Time out to enjoy the space between the bars would be nice, but Mars pushes you to accept financial opportunities. You may as well plan to rest another time.

GEMINI

CANCER

What seemed risky last week seems placid compared to what’s happening now. How does it feel to be on the fast track of your own personal ascension? No matter how fast you move, you could always move faster. So why not slow down and let the world pass you by (for a few hours)? What’s important will find you. Mars, the Moon, Pallas Athene, the Sun, Jupiter and Dark Moon Lilith vie for space in your sign. How much can a Gemini take?

You’re sweet and sensitive, and you’d just love to find a way to make our world a calm, compassionate place. There is hope this week, as Venus and Mercury in Cancer help you express just the right soothing words or slip into a favorite place of beauty. At the same time, Ceres and Vesta in your sign make sure you are fed, and filled with wisdom. You’ll create a reality you can happily inhabit and may find someone to share your crab shell with.

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LEO

VIRGO

When did life become so peaceful and quiet? Oh, it didn’t? The inner workings of spiritual expansion translates to nervous systems on alert. This includes a reflection in the outer world, which has been gaining speed since the (third) Pluto-Uranus square this May. A new depth is now available to you. Venus and Mercury whisper to suggest you take yourself to a quiet venue, one with beauty and serenity.

You can’t undo what has happened, but the universe might just, if you need to get out of a jam this week. While karma and accelerated ascension pops from every corner on our planet, you have the benefit of Venus and Mercury in your friendship sector. This translates as caring, compassion and a soothing stream of understanding that has previously been on hold. Eat your cake.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Things are flowing at warp speed for you! Libra is opposite hi-res Aries currently moving through a jungle of light and lasers. Thoughts are able to bend around impossible odds and ends of the past. Building new structures may not be your favorite activity, but if it’s beautiful and involves tea and romance, might you be willing to get on board? Your public standing begins to grow as it stays in balance.

There’s a lovely, benefic trine between your sign and the sign of Cancer this week. While you are still in the straits of Saturn retrograde, your solar ninth house of long distance connections has lined up Venus and Mercury to bring you out of your Saturnine funk. If you were in one. Vesta and Ceres are there too in case you just want to chill out and watch the world go by, steeped in your wisdom of human nature, knowing that change can be a good thing.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

If only the Centaur could run, galloping away from the knowledge and wisdom you have. However, Sagittarius is a visionary sign, and with that comes the responsibility of seeing things before others do. Whether there is someone in your life or not, the celestial energies are packed with opportunities in your sectors of both marriage and shared experiences. Ever more it becomes true—the present is all that is. Act now.

There is love on the horizon and in your seventh house of partnership. What are you going to do? As you watch your priorities move and shift, check what you resonate with (and what you don’t). Neptune has moved retrograde and this is a celestial chance to express more of who you are, even if it feels unfamiliar. Your depths are merging with the surface as you bring what is needed to get through the week. Your intuition is gentle but strong.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Funny thing. You can’t stop someone from their destiny. You may think you are saving them from hurt, protecting them in some way. But really there’s a larger picture of which you are a part, just as they are. The celestial stars can see who their biggest competition is here on earth. Your path just opened up. Feeling your way through it, let love in. Romance too. Even if your schedule is already full.

About being fluid—it brings you great strength. Pisces is known for being a slippery fish, but lately you’ve been so intrigued that your shyness has been swept aside. From the deep well of cosmic stories, yours is being drawn to the surface. Being in tune with what’s around you, you can’t help but open to the sounds of life. Changes at home bring a light rearrangement, as you get ready for a great love.

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#1002 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 29

The Last Word

Want to have The Last Word? Send your article to: editor@metropolis.co.jp

BRIEF ENCOUNTERS Undressing the Japanese lingerie market By Emma Brooke

pink bra despite my mother’s rather demoralizing insistence that I didn’t quite have anything to put in it yet. But now, I’m a full-grown woman. I’m smart, independent, and more importantly: I haven’t worn pink in over ten years. Call me crazy, but when it comes to wooing gentlemen folk in the bedroom, I want to look like a sleek, sophisticated wanton goddess, not like I just raided my little sister’s knicker drawer. Even when I did manage to find somet hing a litt le more mature hidden in the back of some of the larger stores such as Peach John, all I managed to find was lazy, generic design and cheap material. My only other choice for something to get pulses racing was in the likes of the risqué but endlessly tacky Aimer

on a little slice of high fashion without a couture price tag. Just look at the timeless styling used by the likes of Elle McPherson Intimates or the playful but most definitely grown-up options provided by Mimi Holiday. Japan, however, seems to be a barren wasteland when it comes to the elegant brands and independent boutiques that grace the world’s other fashion capitals. W h i le in t he st reets of London and New York, women in their twenties and thirties strive to portray themselves as overly mature, empowered and fiercely independent, Japanese kawaii fashion caters to youth in its extreme, constantly urging women to replicate a childlike innocence through overtly cute clothing that encourages them to look pretty in pink. And it’s insanely impractical. Have you ever tried to make a tight

Feel. Or, I could head down into the city’s basement sex shops—but I’ve always felt stripping down to some awful pleather/transparent combo is all a little too “porn star” for me. Do I really have to resign myself to a miserable fate of beige, thermal underwear that even most grandmas wouldn’t be seen dead in? Across the globe, the market is crammed full of fantastic brands creating innovative designs with well-sourced material that allow the every day woman to get their hands

fitting t-shirt look good whilst wearing a bra that makes your breasts look like a Swarovski showroom? I can assure you, the result is far from flattering. And what’s with all the padding? Being a woman of a similar frame to Japanese girls (and yes, that means I’m somewhat lacking in the chest area) I understand the pain. But while over the past ten years many designers have moved away from the Wonderbra look, instead encouraging women of all shapes and sizes to love what their mama

TARA NANGIA

eing a self-confessed lingerie addict (having once spent a grand total of four hours in the dressing room of Agent Provocateur), I couldn’t wait to arrive in Japan and get my hands on some of their naughtiest negligee. Heading to a nation famous the world over for its cutting-edge fashion, kooky sex industry and jawdropping women, I had no doubt that Japan would open my eyes to a whole new world of sophisticated, chic undergarments as yet unseen by us Western gals—or so I thought. On a day off, I headed into Tokyo ready to hemorrhage my credit card and obtain some of the most stylish and elegant undies in the world. However, as I began to browse, I started to notice something slightly odd. Ever y thing seemed to be a little, well, pink. And frilly. In fact, almost everything I laid my hands on was adorned with little bows or even worse, garish images of teddy bears and daisies. Now don’t get me wrong, I loved cute, girly underwear—when I was thirteen. I even remember picking out my first pretty

gave them, everything over here still seems to have a pillow stuffed down the front. Is this really what the women of Japan want—to look like a 12-year-old child with the chest of Pamela Anderson? Maybe it’s a guy thing. Perhaps instead of catering to women, the market is driven by many men’s attraction to all things kawaii, and in doing so pushing an unhealthy portrayal of sexuality that affects an entire generation. How else could a musically average band such as A K B48 t hrive? Surely if fashion wasn’t so obsessed with all things cute, ever y intel ligent, moder n woman would realize it might not be so healthy to dress some of its 14-year-old members in overly sexualized schoolgirl costumes. As a woman whose preference in lingerie attempts to replicate the complex, enigmatic silhouettes of the likes of Marlene Dietrich and Coco Chanel, the cutesy, vulnerable image of women’s fashion in Japan is something I don’t think I’ll ever be able to come to terms with. I guess for now I’ll have to spend my Saturday afternoons trawling the internet for imported negligee. Or maybe, on second thought, it might be worth investing in some Japanese lingerie after all—just to see the look on my fellas’ face as I whip off my little black dress to reveal nothing but Hello Kitty’s face covering my modesty.

IS THIS REALLY WHAT THE WOMEN OF JAPAN WANT— TO LOOK LIKE A 12-YEAR-OLD CHILD WITH THE CHEST OF PAMELA ANDERSON?” ■ Emma Brooke is a Brit living in Tokyo with an unhealthy addiction to black coffee and trashy Japanese horror movies.

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

METROPOLIS is Japan's No.1 English magazine, founded in 1994 and published for Japan’s international community. METROPOLIS is the only English-language magazine in Japan certified by ABC, Audit Bureau of Circulations. Up to 30,000 copies per printed issue guaranteed

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