Metropolis #1004, June 21-July 4, 2013

SPECIAL SUMMER PROMOTIONS & ACTIVITIES INSIDE Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine www.metropolis.co.jp

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INSIDE

EDITORIAL HELP WANTED!

#1004

JUN 21-JUL 4, 2013

Photo of the week

Submit your snaps at http://metropolis.co.jp/photo.

06 FEATURE

SUMMER FESTIVAL GUIDE ’13

SEND YOUR CV AND COVER LETTER TO

By Dan Grunebaum

editor@metropolis.co.jp

03 THE SMALL PRINT 05 UPFRONT 10 SUMMER SPECIAL 20 AGENDA 24 MOVIES 25 DINING OUT 28 CLASSIFIEDS & JOBS 33 HOROSCOPE & MEDIABOX 34 THE LAST WORD

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Tokyo Skytree lit up at night with lowlevel clouds covering the top, by Paul Kelly

The Small Print

By Steve Trautlein

SURPRISED “ I’M TO SEE SO MANY PHOTOGRAPHERS HERE”

ćć A hospital worker in Gunma was arrested for beating a psychiatric patient into a coma. The assailant said “I got upset because the patient ran wild when I was changing his diaper.” ćć A medical industry association says that many people receiving welfare don’t take part in “ceremonial functions or local activities” because they either lack the funds or are ashamed at being on the dole.

TARA NANGIA

—Director Hirokazu Koreeda, winner of the Jury Prize at the Cannes film festival, on his welcome at Narita Airport

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE ćć In response to a query from a DPJ lawmaker, the government issued a statement saying it is “unaware of rumored sightings of ghosts at the prime minister’s official residence in central Tokyo.” ćć A Lower House LDP member is in hot water for submitting more than ¥800,000 in bogus personnel expenses, including for an “employee” whose address was given as Tokyo Skytree. ćć It was reported that Tokyo Governor Naoki Inose, who took office in December, has assets of ¥88.55 million, including two houses and a cool ¥9.99 million in savings. ćć Staff at t he improbably named A ll Japan Obachan Party criticized a government plan to produce and distribute a handbook on pregnancy and childbirth for teenage girls.

FIGHTING WORDS

MILESTONES ćć A company in Yamagata has become the first in the world to “successfully mass-produce artificial spider silk.” ćć Doctors at a hospital in Kitakyushu say they’ve been able to help 80 couples have children by extracting immature sperm cells from men who can’t produce, ahem, mature sperm. ćć A cancer hospital in Chiba has developed an

69.2

Percent of scientists at the Atomic Energy Society of Japan who feel “comfortable” with nuclear power

us.fotolia.com/metropolis

app for tablet computers that can help elderly patients conduct self-diagnoses at home. ćć Among the items that workers at the environment ministry are permitted to wear as part of the government’s Super Cool Biz campaign are “polo shirts, aloha shirts and sneakers.”

STRANGE DAYS ćć The town of Obihiro in southern Hokkaido experienced snowfall in May for the first time in eight years. ćć Judges on the Osaka District Court ruled that a local man can claim a tax deduction on money he lost betting on horse races. ćć Doctors at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases say 5,442 cases of rubella were reported in the first four months of 2013— compared to 2,392 cases all of last year. ćć O p h t h a l m o l o g i s t s a r o u n d t h e c o u n tr y have noticed a surge in eye ailments caused by cut-rate colored contact lenses.

AND FINALLY…

ćć The governors of Ishikawa, Toyama and Nagano prefectures are having a spat about whether to call a new bullet-train line the “Hokuriku Shinkansen” or the “Hokuriku Nagano Shinkansen.” ćć Officials in Shizuoka say they’d like to ban climbing on Mt Fuji in winter, but their counterparts in Yamanashi want to allow the activity to continue.

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1,628

Remains of unidentified Imperial Army troops killed in World War II that were interred at a cemetery in Tokyo late last month

ćć T h ree Japa nese-A mer ic a n women were honored as “Champions of Change” by the administration of US President Barack Obama. ćć The MPD says 334 motorists in Tokyo have been ticketed since 2007 for failing to obey traffic signs that were, in fact, installed without official approval. The drivers have had their violations overturned. ćć Noted alpinist Chizuko Kono was presumed dead after an avalanche on the 8,167m Mt Dhaulagiri in the Himalayas. The 66-year-old mountaineer made her name by summiting the highest peaks on all seven continents. ćć Prime Minister Shinzo Abe says Japan will open an embassy in South Sudan as early as next month. Previously, the embassy in Sudan handled diplomatic affairs for both countries.

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1,113,000

Estimated number of World War II soldiers whose remains are still unaccounted for

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

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 03

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PEOPLE, TRENDS & MISCELLANY

Amadare ishi o ugatsu Raindrops will wear through a stone.

(Slow and steady wins the race.)

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FOTOLIA

雨垂れ石を穿つ

ILLUSTRATION BY JUN HASHIMOTO

axiomatic

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get leathered

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emember Fukushima? They haven’t fixed it yet. Latest reports say they might be able to remove the molten fuel (the exact location of which is still unclear) by… 2020. And that’s just for starters in decommissioning terms.

So maybe you should keep monitoring your local radiation levels. The Japan Nuclear Crowd Map, by researchers from the University of Southampton, shows you the average radiation in your area. The aim of it apparently is to “demonstrate the power of harvesting crowd-powered information to make up-to-date predictions accessible to users.” Just pop in your postcode and find out whether you need to dust off your boiler suit and goggles. http://jncm.ecs.soton.ac.uk

ussie-in-Japan designer Adam Bowden—supported by countryman Nathan Berry—came up with leather bag brand Yukihiro, named after his Japanese grandmother.

Bowden, who previously worked with various Australian theater and dance companies, was reportedly struck by how Japanese folks of all stripes tote bags of some kind. His Yukihiro creations are hand-stitched—including the brand’s kanji—from different pieces of leather to create one-of-a-kind items.

Check out what’s online, but you can also ask for custom variations if you’re prepared to wait. Look out for new goods coming up such as iPad sleeves and more. Some kinds of leather are only available in small quantities—so act fast to get the one you want. From ¥20,745. www.etsy.com/shop/yukihiroleather

ich bin ein berliner

cool for cats (and dogs)

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he Ampelmann Shop To k yo (1F Ji n g u m a e O h a s h i B l d g , 6 -18 - 6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku; www. ampelmann.co.jp) will peddle goods featuring the behatted red and green men that light up at pedestrian crossings across Berlin. The little stop-and-go men were a feature of life in East Germany—only to be removed after reunification in 1990. The Ampelmann then became a symbol of GDR nostalgia, eventually returning to Eastern pedestrian crossings—and appearing in West Berlin, too. Ampelmann goods were previously available in select stores in Japan, but now you can find them all in one place. Look out for the messenger bag (from ¥12,600), umbrellas (from ¥2,625), bento boxes (¥1,050) and more.

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PHOTO BY NATHAN BERRY

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statshot ow do you spend tsuyu (the rainy season) enjoyably?

1 Get stuck into indoor projects and hobbies 2 I can’t enjoy it at all 3 Wait for the brief moments of sunshine 4 Give my place a really thorough cleaning 5 Catch up on reading 6 Check out the season’s flowers (hydrangeas, etc.)

7 I like rainy days anyway 8 Choose umbrellas with patterns and colors I like 9 Wear fashionable rainwear 10 Listen to music that fits the rainy atmosphere Source: http://ranking.goo.ne.jp

low accumulation and attrition are chronicled over and over in Japanese proverbs, as in “Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru” (“Even dust amassed will grow into a mountain”). Here, the opposite effect is described, but with the same sustained effort. From Japanese Proverbs: Wit and Wisdom by David Galef, illustrated by Jun Hashimoto (2012; Tuttle; 224pp; ¥1,500), available from major bookstores and Amazon.jp.

radiation nation

Upfront

he heat is on for your pet pooch and fave feline this summer. They’re closer to the ground, and considerably furrier than most of us. Put new meaning into “the cat is on the mat” with Peppy’s Cool Aluminum Gel Mat (from ¥1,500). Its energy-efficient aluminum coating keeps the cool in as well as guarding against feline freezer burn. Available in different sizes, it also comes with an appropriate cutesy cover. Meanwhile, when the Shih Tzu hits the fan, tempt her away with the puffy, waterbed-like Canine Cooler (from ¥5,250). Top up with water once or twice a month, and keep your dog up off the deck.

Available in various sizes. www. peppynet.com

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 05

Feature

MMER SU SUMMER FESTIVAL FESTIVAL GUIDE GUIDE From analog headbangers to techno raves, Japan’s music fests have everything under the sun

‘13 ‘13

By Dan Grunebaum

Rock In Japan Fes COURTESY OF DISK GARAGE

COURTESY OF SMASH

Asian Kung-Fu Generation

NANO-MUGEN CIRCUIT

Headliners: Asian Kung-Fu Generation, Radical Dads

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jikan, as locals affectionately call rockers Asian Kung-Fu Generation, are a lready on t he tent h insta llment of their very own festival. Not bad for a melocore outfit whose heyday was over a decade ago. Their secret may be not trying to pull off a full-on rock festival each year, but toning things down on the off-years with their traveling Nano-Mugen (roughly “from nano to the infinite”) Circuit.

This year’s lineup at Nano-Mugen is decidedly low-key compared to last year’s Suede and Fountains of Wayne, with Brooklyn outfit Radical Dads making what is apparently their first visit to Japan, alongside local rockers Siamese Cats, The Chef Cooks Me, and of course Ajikan themselves.

Tokyo Dome City Hall, June 28, ¥4,500. nanomugenfes.com

The Cure

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL

Headliners: Nine Inch Nails, Bjork, The Cure

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f last year’s headliners Stone Roses, Radiohead and the Gallagher bros made for an Olympics-themed Brit-fest, this year trends toward t he A merican and ot her w ise. Trent Reznor’s Nine Inch Nails front Fuji for the first time, and return to Japan for their first visit since their 2009 Summer Sonic appearance. After their break they are back with a new album due out later this year.

A lso on an American tip are the likes of “brostep” kingpin Skrillex, New York indie-poppers Vampire Weekend and alt-hip-hop legends

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

Jurassic 5. Unassailable artdiva Bjork hails from Iceland and orig ina l sad-sacks The Cure are the only British headliners, giving Fuji a decidedly different vibe than recent years.

Japa n’s mo s t mu s ic a l l y diverse festival—now in its 17th incarnation—will once again push the envelope, with sounds ranging from the downhome countrified freak of The Band keyboardist Garth Hudson to the moody downtempo electronica of DJ Shadow to the trendy millennial art-pop of England’s The XX. T he homela nd is represented a mong ot her s b y reedy roots rocker Kenichi Asai, whispering chanteuse Chara, guitar hero Char and mysteriously reticent post-punkers Soutaisei Riron.

Those who’ve been to the great, wet, wooly mother of Japanese rock festivals will already know that it’s the country’s answer to Woodstock and Glastonbury. They’ll also know that it’s guaranteed to rain buckets. Don’t forget the galoshes for those long hikes up and down the Naeba valley, and portable camping chairs for when you get weary.

Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture, July 26-28, ¥42,800 (three-day pass) ¥17,800 (oneday pass). fujirockfestival.com

COURTESY OF CREATIVEMAN

COURTESY OF CREATIVEMAN

Summer Sonic

COURTESY OF CREATIVEMAN

Muse

Metallica

COURTESY OF ROCKIN’ ON JAPAN

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu COURTESY OF CREATIVEMAN

ROCK IN JAPAN FES.

Headliners: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Rip Slyme, Kreva etc.

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SUMMER SONIC

Headliners: Metallica, Muse, Stone Roses

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hile Fuji is headed in an American direction, Summer Sonic and Sonicmania’s bill ta kes its cue f rom FRF’s English-flavored lineups of recent years.

This year’s festival welcomes Beady Eye (Liam Ga l lag her a nd fel low Oasis rem na nts) a nd Stone Roses, who both played Fuji last year.

Muse blew minds with their anthemic set at Fuji in 2011 and Pet Shop Boys have also graced Fuji in the last decade.

Smashing Pumkins

Still, the US is well represented, most notably in the form of thrash metal pioneers Metallica, who have never played a festival here, usually preferring to tour on their own. More bones thrown to older fans come in the form of evergreen hard rockers Cheap Trick (of At Budokan fame), equally indefatigable singer (and recent Broadway songw riter) Cyndi Lauper, and Billy Corgan’s alt-rock warhorse Smashing Pumpkins.

For the younger audience Vampire Weekend that has been Summer Sonic’s bread-and-butter, there are nu metal banner wavers Linkin Park and emo rockers Fall Out Boy, along with trendy indie rockers Palma Violets, “Call Me Maybe” baby Carly Rae Jepsen and Sri Lankan provocatress M.I.A. There’s perhaps less domestic music on the bill (gone too is the Asian Calling stage) than in recent years, but J-rock is represented by The Hiatus and Maximum The Hormone, and there will be jazzier sounds from guitarist Ovall and the pianist-led Ohashi Trio.

COURTESY OF CREATIVEMAN

IJ is an effort by Rockin’ On magazine, Japan’s timid counterpart to Rolling Stone or NME. On tap is a virtual who’s who of Japanese music industry leaders in a calm, safe seaside park in Ibaraki. If unadventurous, the bill is actually pretty diverse. Producer Yasutaka Nakata will be omnipresent both with his own unit Capsule and via the songs he pens for idols Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and Perfume. Akai Koen straddle a strange territory between J-pop and indie-rock, while Zazen Boys’ angular skronk will attempt to inject some energy into the Puffy proceedings. Also on the rockier end (it is a ROCK festival after all) are the Okamoto’s, 9mm Parabellum Bullet and Back Drop Bomb.

National Hitachi Kaihin Park, Ibaraki Prefecture, Aug 2-4, ¥11,500 (one day), ¥22,000 (two days), ¥30,000 (three days). rijfes.jp

Japan’s biggest urban festival means lots of tramping across the concrete escarpments of t he Ma k u ha r i Messe convent ion center.

The festival has accommodated those wear y from walk ing about and the Friday all-night Sonicmania event w ith chill-out spaces and campsites in recent years.

Chiba Marine Stadium and Makuhari Messe, Aug 10-11, ¥15,500 (one day), ¥28,000 (both days). summersonic.com

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 07

PHOTO BY HIDEKI OTSUKA

© SHINTARO SHIRATORI

Shugo Tokumaru

Seiji Ozawa

Feature

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he brainchild of bassist Haruomi “Harry’ Hosono, one of three founders of seminal elepop group Yellow Magic Orchestra along with keyboardist Ryuichi Sakamoto and drummer Yukihiro Takahashi, World Happiness has enlivened Tokyo Bay’s “Dream Island” park with a bill that digs into the artier end of J-pop since 2009.

The 2013 edition features among others indie-folk multi-instrumentalist Shugo Tokumaru, pioneering avant-pop outfit Hikashu, roots rocker Tamio Okuda and Yukihiro Takahashi himself.

Yumenoshima Koen Rikujokyogijo, Aug 11, ¥8,500. world-happiness.com

SAITO KINEN FESTIVAL MATSUMOTO

Headliners: Saito Kinen Orchestra, Junko Onishi

EARTH CELEBRATION

Headliners: Kodo, Hiromitsu Agatsuma

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rimal beats in a placid island setting fringed by thick forests and, in the distance, the Sea of Japan. Yes, it’s the Kodo drummers’ Earth Celebration. The weekend festival on far-flung Sado Island, which usually pairs the muscular men of Kodo with a foreign guest, this year turns toward Japanese tradition.

Legend of the kabuki stage, Tamasaburo Bando, will direct Kodo in a special encore performance of their coproduction Dadan, with a specially commissioned screen as backdrop

under the nighttime sky. Also slated to rejoin Kodo is shamisen (the Japanese banjo) virtuoso Hiromitsu Agatsuma. Together they will delve into the intricacies of Japanese tradition—and point the way toward the future—in the world’s f i rst per for ma nce of Agatsu ma’s new epic composition.

With Earth Celebration half the fun is getting there. A shinkansen journey across Honshu gives way to a placid ferry ride—sometimes regaled by a local drum troupe aboard for the journey. A quaint Japanese fishing village awaits on arrival, transformed briefly into a kind of hippy encampment. Ogi supplements its earnings from the sea with a week of tourism as thousands descend upon it for Earth Celebration. One can participate in workshops ranging from Sado’s native “demon drumming” to traditional Japanese dance and folk song.

Ogi Town, Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture, August 23-25. Prices vary for individual events. www.kodo.or.jp/ec/en/

TOKYO JAZZ

Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club

Headliners: Chick Corea, Tony Bennett, Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club

COURTESY OF WIRE 13

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nfluential conductor Seiji Ozawa directs the Saito Kinen Orchestra in its annual celebration of all things Western and classical amid the serene Japan Alps surrounding the city of Matsumoto. The festival grew out of the Saito Kinen Orchestra, which was created to honor teacher and cellist Hideo Saito, and was born in 1992 with Ozawa guiding its development. The month-long event will see the ailing 77-year-old Ozawa direct a program featuring works by Stravinsky, Prokofiev, Gershwin, Ravel and Schubert and Haydn among other composers. The grand finale comes in the form of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue by jazz pianist Junko Onishi’s trio with the Saito Kinen Orchestra conducted by Ozawa himself. The finale came about after Ozawa and author Haruki Murakami attended a purported retirement concert by Onishi, and convinced her to join them in Matsumoto. Concerts are held at the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center and other halls in and around Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture.

Matsumoto, Aug 12-Sep 7. Prices vary for individual events. www.saito-kinen.com/e/

COURTESY OF TOKYO JAZZ

WORLD HAPPINESS FESTIVAL

Headliners: Yukihiro Takahashi, Shugo Tokumaru, Hikashu

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okyo Jazz takes jazz out of the archetypal smoky basement and places it on the stage of Japan’s finest concert hall. Public broadcaster NHK’s festival is a dignified affair, with polite audiences applauding jazz giants in the comfort of the grand Tokyo International Forum as Japan does its part to keep the American jazz tradition alive. This year’s 12th bill achieves the impressive feat of following up last year’s appearance by 84-year-old Burt Bacharach with a visit by equally unassailable crooner legend, 86-yearold Tony Bennett. For modern jazz fans, pianist Chick Corea (Miles David Band, Return To Forever) will be joined by saxman Lee Konitz and guitarist Larry Carlton. A set by Cuba’s Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club featuring 82-year-old Omara Portuondo should inject some Latin brio into the proceedings.

Tokyo International Forum, Sep 6-8. ¥6,500¥9,500 (individual concerts) ¥18,000 (one-day pass). tokyo-jazz.com

WIRE

Headliners: Sven Vath, Takkyu Ishino, Josh Wink etc.

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rrepressible techno impresario Takkyu Ishino’s Wire turns 15 this month—a testament to four-to-the-f loor dance music’s longtime appeal in Japan. Other electronic music festivals may reach from disco to dubstep, but Ishino focuses ruthlessly on straight-ahead beats in what may be the world’s biggest techno event.

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

Takkyu Ishino

Wire 2013 looks back before the current commercial EDM scene to a time when Japanese DJs were forming links with German producers—both of whom had been heavily influenced by the Detroit underground of the 1980s. This means Ishino and friends like DJ Hell, Sven Vath, and Westbam at the steel wheels, along with Japanese veterans including Ken Ishii and Fumiya Tanaka. Get your fill of not only massive beats booming across the Yokahama Arena, but also cutting-edge visuals courtesy of inventive domestic VJ outfits Device Girls and Krak x Heart Bomb.

Yokohama Arena, Sep 14. ¥11,550. www.wireweb.jp/13/

PHOTO BY DAN GRUNEBAUM

GLISTENING LISTENINGS Ten fresh streams—um, albums—just out of the shrinkwrap in time for the summer festivals

Kodo COURTESY OF WIRE 13

Wire

SOMEWHERE, OUT THERE

And now for something completely different…

Tonofon Festival

Leftfield Japanese music fest at a park in Saitama features neo-folkie Shugo Tokumaru, husbandw ife duo Tenniscoats and A merican banjo evangelist Sam Amidon.

Tokorozawa Kokukinenkoen, Jun 30. www.tonofon.com/fes13/

Tokyo Festival of Modular Showcase event for modular (ie analog) synthesizer players. Knob twiddlers galore including Robert Piotrowicz, Brian O’Reilly, and Naoki Nomoto. SuperDeluxe, Jun 30. tfom2013.tumblr.com/

Hesitation Marks Nine Inch Nails Newly rebooted—with old faces Eric Avery of Jane’s Addiction and Adrian Belew from King Crimson Edgeland Karl Hyde Underworld’s frontman slows down the BPM for his solo debut.

Tanabata Extreme Damage your eardrums at this celebration of all things headbanging, brutalist, and “mine goes to 11.” Bands include Kyushu’s Damage Digital and Hokkaido’s Motiveless, along with a slew of Tokyo groups.

Zone-B, Jul 27. tanabata-ex.blogspot.jp/

Tokyo Idol Festival For the otaku in all of us. Every imaginable uniformed female group—and even a female idol impersonator.

Zepp Tokyo, July 27-28. idolfes.com/2013/

Punkafoolic! Bayside Crash Punk mashup for the masses with a gaggle of bands including Asshole Unite, Hotsquall, Shank and dozens more.

Tokyo Harumi Terminal, Aug 17. www.punkafoolic.com/baysidecrash2013/

Yokohama Steelpan Festa Let your body sway along to Caribbean rhythms at a sizzling summer event that won’t break the budget.

Yamashita Park, Aug 10-11. www.nonaka.com

BE Beady Eye Liam Gallagher retreads his best John Lennon. Need we say more?

Modern Vampires Vampire Weekend Paperweight New York indiepop outfit’s endearingly modest attempt at heavyweight.

180 Palma Violets Who can resist rock’s latest skinny panted salvation when it exudes this much sweaty youthful energy and charming naiveté?

Nanda Kore Ku Shon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Is current J-pop queen Kyary’s new outing (produced by Yasutaka Nakata) an album, or a vehicle for KFC and au commercials?

Matangi M.I.A. Its release has been delayed and delayed, but a preview mix of Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam’s fourth album has her sounding as aggro as ever.

Rapid Reality Radical Dads Curiously likable if predictable blend of shout-y post-punk vocals and melodic strumming from another young Brooklyn band.

Smilewound Mum It’s not due out ‘til August, but expect the Icelandic dreampoppers to preview new material off their forthcoming album.

Fade Yo La Tengo Hoboken trio’s home venue Maxwell’s may be gone, but Ira Kaplan, Georgia Hubley and James McNew continue to refine their craft.

GUILTY PLEASURES

Ten songs we want to hear most (in no particular order)

“Enter Sandman” Metallica “Something I Can Never Have” Nine Inch Nails “Today” Smashing Pumpkins “Smile” Earth Wind & Fire “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” Cyndi Lauper “West End Girls” Pet Shop Boys “I Wanna Be Adored” Stone Roses “Paper Planes” M.I.A. “Human Behavior” Bjork “Friday I’m in Love” The Cure “Diane Young” Vampire Weekend “Resistance” Muse “Kyoto” Skrillex #1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 09

SUNNY SIDE

Fun parks, beer gardens and some sizzlin' deals in our Summer Special SCREAMIN’ LARKS Some theme parks to hit up during the summer months.

Grinpa (Shizuoka) Shake off the dust with a grand view of Mt. Fuji. Picasso’s egg obstacle course, a giant Ferris wheel, bumper cars, mini golf, merry-go-round, an Ultraman Park area, and a new 3-D maze with moving ceilings and walls. Oneday coupon, inc. entrance and rides: ¥2,400 (kids)/¥3,200 (adults). www. grinpa.com/en

Toshimaen (Nerima) Three rollercoasters feature among the rides, plus a water park with 25 slides and six pools. One-day pass inc. entrance and rides ¥2,900 (kids 110cm and taller), ¥3,900 (JHS and up). Separate fee for pool area. www. toshimaen.co.jp Hanayashiki (Asakusa) T he olde st t heme pa rk i n Japa n , H a naya sh i k i op ene d a s a f lower park in 1853, when Perry blasted his way in. Nowadays, it operates as an amusement park with over 20 attractions including a roller coaster and the “Ghost Mansion.” http://hanayashiki. net/e Namja Town (Ikebukuro)—reopens Jul 11 This indoor park is currently undergoing renovation. Its main attractions are lots of gyoza and freezers full of ice cream in weird flavors like squid. www.namja.jp Adventure Forest (various locations) Clamber from tree to tree via bridges, swings, nets and zip lines. Locations include Hakone, Odawara, Mt Fuji, and more. www.foret-aventure.jp/eng

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Yokohama Cosmo World (Yokohama) A theme park on the water with a “Cliff Drop” and “ Diving Coaster,” and a rocking tug boat. Entrance: free, rides ¥300-600. www.senyo.co.jp/cosmo

ALE’S WELL Run the beer-garden gauntlet this summer King of the Pirates (Daiba) Say “arrrr” when you quaff that cold beer at Pirates. Their course menu includes all you can drink for ¥4,000.

Take in a view of the Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba.

5F Aqua City Odaiba, 1-7-1 Odaiba, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3599-1225. Nearest stn: Daiba. www.diamond-dining. com/shop_info/kop Bishoku Maimon (Shibuya) This forest-like enclave is covered, making it good for rainy day sipping.

The BBQ garden terrace course menu plus all-you-can-drink costs ¥5,000.

8 F S h i b u y a P a r c o P a r t 1 , 15 -1 Uch ida gawa , Sh ibuya-k u . Tel : 03-3464-6644. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.diamond-dining.com/ shop_info/bishokumaimon Hilton Hotel Beer Garden (Shinjuku) Get classy up on the hotel’s 7th floor and train your bleary eyes on the Shinjuku skyline. ¥2,800 for 90 minutes all-you-can-drink (food separate).

7F Hilton Hotel, 6-6-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-3344-5111. Nearest stn: Sh inju k u . http://metu rl .com / hiltontokyo Mori No Beer Garden (Jingumae) After 30 years, this garden by the stadium is a perfect place for a post-game pint, weather permitting. The twohour nomihodai costs ¥4,000 for men, ¥3,700 for women, and includes a BBQ plate. Reservations required.

13-14 Ka su m i gaoka-mach i , Sh i njuku-ku. Tel: 03-5411-3715. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. www.rkfs.co.jp/ brand/beer_garden_detail.html Beer Carnival (Shinbashi, Shinjuku and Omiya) Belch “ The Star-Spangled Banner” with generously endowed ladies at this US-style beer bar and garden. Set meal and two-hour nomihodai from ¥3,500.

1-16-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-5387-3260. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. www.budcarnival.jp

Summer Special

UP!

Vento (Shinagawa) Bring your friends close and your beer closer at this Italian-American style bar and restaurant with an outdoor terrace.

1F Keikyu Shopping Plaza Wing Takanawa West, 4-1018 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3441-7952. Nearest stn: Shinagawa. www.bar-grill-vento.com/english

Sakaeya Takadanobaba Honten (Shinjuku) Babble drunkenly in ’Baba with a ¥5,500 nomihodai and BBQ set dinner.

1-2F Da-Ni Futaba Bldg, 3-4-16 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-3360-8200. http://meturl.com/sakaeya

Tokyu Honten (Shibuya) Stand atop Shibuya for some rooftop guzzlin’ with Guinness, Heineken, Bud and more.

1-24-2 Dougenzaka, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-3477-3747.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. meturl.com/tokyubeergarden

Hamakaze Terrace (Yokohama) Boozing on the bay. Just don’t fall in.

4F DDZ-Point, 2-6-6 Minami-saiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama. Tel: 045-324-2861. Nearest stn: Yokohama. www.hamakaze.com

Port Beer Garden (Tsurumi) Take a tour of the Yokohama Beer Factory and stay for the all-you-can drink, Genghis Khan course menu.

1-17-1 Namamugi, Tsurumi-ku, Kanagawa. Tel: 045503-8250. Nearest stn: Tsurumi. meturl.com/beerportgarden

Bane Bagus (Akasaka) Put on your glad rags for some posh dining with a ¥5,000 BBQ and set menu.

4F Gessekai Bldg, 30-10-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-5561-6006. Nearest stn: Akasakamitsuke. www. bagus-99.com/darts/store/akasaka.html

Moonlight Craft Beer Garden (Noborito) Sip under the Kanagawa sun or stars.

1818 Noborito, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa. Tel: 044-930-1018. Nearest stn: Noborito. www.craftbeermoonlight.jp

AZABU SKIN CLINIC Ebisu Skin Clinic

Special offer ● Ultimate Medical Slimming Trial ¥9,800 ● Laser Hair Removal Armpits Trial ¥1,950 ● Cavitation RF Trial ¥7,500 ● Body Thermacool CPT 35% OFF ● Photofacial Trial ¥12,500 ● Botox and Fillers 64-67% OFF

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Prepare to bare your skin for summer! Shape up with Azabu Skin Clinic’s effective Medical Slimming Program—which combines radio frequency, infrared rays, ultrasonic beams and EMS with no risk of rebounds—or go for the fat buster Cavitation RF if you are short of time. For ugly cellulite and sagging skin, a single non-invasive Body Thermacool CPT treatment will yield lasting results.

Show off smoother skin with big discounts on laser

hair removal. Or opt to stay dry and look cool despite the humidity with botox procedures for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Clinic director Dr Kawashima is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and a fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. She offers consultations in English as well. ASC is a Thermacool- and Photofacialcertified clinic.

7F Hagiwara Bldg 1, 1-3-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku

Clinic 0120-005-327; medical spa 0120-890-992 Open daily 10am-7pm, Tues & Wed 11am-8pm (reservations required) Ebisu www.azabu-skinclinic.com

SHOP URL

PLAZA CLINIC Hiroo Skin Clinic

Special offer Laser hair removal 50% off (one time offer; restrictions apply)

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f you’re considering updating your look this summer, Plaza Clinic is the best choice for you. And you won’t have trouble finding it by Starbucks at the Hiroo crossing. Head surgeon Dr. Robert Kure is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery—the only plastic surgeon with this accolade in Japan—and was chief resident in plastic surgery at UCLA. Dr. Kure is always working hard to ensure Plaza offers the very best in modern cosmetic care. Using up-to-the-minute

equipment, Plaza offers Botox hyperhidrosis removal in the armpits and hands, frown-line easing, and the RetinA and the Obagi systems for removing blemishes and wrinkles. The clinic also offers facelifts, liposuction, laser tattoo and freckle removal, and double eyelid procedures.

English consultations are offered, and foreign insurance can be used for reconstructive procedures and certain dermatological cases. Once you’ve seen how beautiful you can become, Plaza is confident you’ll return.

4F, 5-5-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku 03-5475-2345 info@plazaclinic.net Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat 9:30am-6pm (by appointment), closed Thu & Sun Hiroo www.plazaclinic.net

SHOP URL

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Summer Special AMBITIOUS Hiroo Esthetic

Special offer Permanent Cosmetics: ● Eyeliner (top or bottom) ¥52,500→ ¥21,000 ● Eyeliner (both) or Eyebrow ¥84,000→ ¥42,000 ● RF Slimming (90min): ¥21,000 → ¥8,400 ● Photofacial for wrinkles and facelift (60min): ¥25,000→ ¥10,500

Menu We offer classes for permanent cosmetics from ¥210,000

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akura is a professional makeup artist who began honing her skills in the United States 17 years ago, where she studied permanent cosmetics at the International Institute of Permanent Cosmetics in California. She has experience working globally in Meccas of fashion such as New York and London. She opened her salon in Tokyo in 1999, and has since utilized her skills to beautify over 8,000 clients. Sakura has been known

to shave ten years off her clients’ looks, making them healthy in order to bring out their true beauty potential. As a Japanese person who studied in the United States, Sakura brings the best of both worlds in terms of knowledge, artistry and service philosophy.

Though she has been lauded and interviewed in the press—both print and TV—she still has that down-toearth quality that keeps people coming back to feel at home in her studio.

2F El Sur Hiroo, 5-16-8 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku

03-3440-6144 amb.hiroo@fb3.so-net.ne.jp Tue-Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 11am-7pm, closed Mon Hiroo stn www.amb.ne.jp

SHOP URL

ESTETICA BRASIL BEAUTY Kamiyacho Esthetic

Special offer

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f you’d love to be in Brazil this summer—get the next best thing by fixing yourself up Ipanema style at Estética. Prepare for the summertime with a manicure and pedicure, and focus on your bikini image with LipoLight, CaviLipo, Ultra Power Shape, LipoLaser and CryoLipo. Apply the finishing touch with a makeover by the in-house artist.

Estetica was the first salon to bring Brazilian keratin treatment hair straightening to Japan, meaning it’s

Members’ card available for ¥10,500 is valid for 3 years and gets you: ●10% off all salon treatment menu (facial, slimming, manicure, hair salon, makeup, etc.) ●5% off salon treatment packages the perfect place to try it. Plus, they only use keratin imported from Brazil—rather than the flimsy imitations found in other salons. With hair removal, the staff are fast and well-trained, and the bottom line (excuse the pun) is economical rates—¥6,000 for women and ¥15,000 for men. Estetica’s qualified professionals pride themselves on giving their very best, and they’re always honing their techniques of beautifying and improving clients’ self esteem. Try their methods for yourself this summer.

MDSA HAIR REMOVAL SALON Azabu-Juban Esthetic

3A Sanki Bldg, 2-2-12 Azabudai, Minato-ku

03-3505-2558

SHOP URL

Open Tue-Sun 11am-8pm, closed Mon Kamiyacho www.esteticabrasilbeauty.com

Special offer Special Discount for Metropolis readers ●Men (Per visit/ five sessions): Full face...¥29,250 / ¥87,750 Pubic Area ... ¥38,000 / ¥133,000 ●Women (Per visit/ five sessions): Both legs... ¥26,000 / ¥90,000 Pubic Area... ¥13,000 / ¥38,000

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oing anywhere this summer? Beaches, pools, firework displays… there’s plenty of places to go. But wait—isn’t there somewhere you need to visit first? Just two minutes by foot from Azabu-Juban station, MDSA Hair Removal Salon offers private operating rooms, and admits clients through advance reservation only to ensure privacy and comfort. Twenty percent of customers are foreign, and MDSA has

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some staff who can speak English.

T he coz y at mosphere , g reat pr ice s a nd top equipment are sure to satisfy. But head in and see for yourself how it works with a free consultation and a localized hair-removal trial. You’ll be impressed by the efficiency, minimal pain and the good value for money. Rooms can service two people, so bring friends or family along to benefit along with you.

2F Ishihara Bldg, 3-7-1 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku

03-6435-1276 info@mds-a.jp Mon-Fri 12pm-11:30pm, SatSun & hols 10am-11:30pm Azabu-Juban http://mds-a.jp/english

SHOP URL

Summer Special SIN DEN Omotesando

Hair Salon

Special offer Mention Metropolis and get 20% off your first hair service with Shinobu. Valid until 31 Aug

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elebrate in official summertime style at Sin Den. Make the season easy and breezy with a fabulous hairstyle perfect for the poolside, seashore, sports courts and mountains—thanks to Sin Den’s incomparable team of sizzling stylists. Come down and meet for yourself Sin Den’s breathtaking new stylist and master of color and cuts Shinobu, direct from eight years’ experience in NYC. In the season of sandals and bangles, don’t forget to treat

your nails nicely, too. Sin Den’s expert nail artist Rika has the greatest Shellac deal in town: for a single onetime fee (nails ¥9,800; toenails ¥14,800) request all the touch-ups and color changes you desire during an entire monthlong period. Summer never looked so good. Sin Den also offers Wella’s best line-up, specially formulated to gently cleanse off the hot season’s unwanted residues, moisturize and protect your locks against Tokyo’s terrifying temperatures. Sin Den will see you in the sunshine!

3-9-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku 03-3405-4409

SHOP URL

Open 10am-8pm Gaienmae or Omotesando www.sinden.com

GOLD SALON Azabu-Juban Hair Salon

Special offer

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okyo has all the appearances of being “Hair Salon Central”—but can they cut your hair type correctly? Can they color it naturally and creatively? Will they understand the subtleties of what you’re going for? These questions are the reason Gold Salon is renowned for its service— and why its clients are 98% foreign nationals. The salon staff all speak English and have vast experience in all manner of hair types and textures. They

Special Offer for Metropolis readers: Come in for a Brazilian Keratin Smoothing Treatment before July 10 with Gold stylist Eiki Nakajima—and receive a free haircut (reg ¥8,500) take pride in producing soft, natural-looking blondes, warm, rich brunettes, and simply stunning redheads.

Beautiful color outcomes are guaranteed at Gold. The salon is owned and managed by Howard Lee Regner, a long-term Tokyoite now dividing time between Sydney and Tokyo. So if you seek a stylist who not only gets what you’re saying, but has the skill set to produce something you’ll truly love, then Gold is what you’re looking for.

NEPENJI CURLY HAIR SPECIALIST Ebisu

Hair Salon

6F, 4-1-9 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku

SHOP URL

03-6436-0228 Mon & Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, closed Tue & Sun Azabu-Juban www.goldsalontokyo.com

Special offer 20% off hair color (first visit only)

Menu

● Cut (including hair treatment, first visit only) ¥8,400 ● Color single process: From ¥7,350 ● Highlight: From ¥8,400 ● Blow dry: From ¥3,675

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on’t know which salon to go to in Tokyo? Let Nepenji’s stylists settle your mind—and what’s on top of it. Those having trouble taming their locks should chat with curly-hair specialist Kiyoko, who trained at New York’s Devachan Salon. Everyone’s hair is unique, with distinct curls and patterns.

Hair can even differ in texture on different parts of your head. First-time customers will feel relaxed with Nepenji’s hospitable service, and will be enlightened

by the proper treatment realizing the true potential of their wavy manes. Nepenji will show that with proper maintenance, healthy hair comes easy. A proper cut is necessary for the hairstyle you want to keep. Nepenji’s friendly staff is happy to discuss long-term hair plans with you. They also pride themselves on their fatigue-removing post-cut shoulder massages—if you needed a further incentive.

Customers can now make appointments online. Just hit up the English webpage and check Kiyoko’s schedule.

2-6-14 Ebisu-Minami, Shibuya-ku

03-3793-2357 (Kiyoko) info@nepenji.net Open Wed-Sun 11am-9pm Ebisu www.english.nepenji.net/ index_en.html

SHOP URL

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Summer Special REVLON Various locations Makeup

Special offer Send an email on why you like Revlon to events@metropolis. co.jp for a chance to win one of ten three-color nail enamel sets.

Menu

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h i s s u m me r, Revlon h a s comple te ly revamped their bestselling line, Colorstay Makeup. The new formula features longwearing coverage with a lightweight consistency that does not cake, fade or rub off. It will quickly become your premier choice for the hot and humid summer months ahead. What’s more, Colorstay has been reformulated to handle oily skin. Now it is even easier to spread the product and control oil absorption,

leaving your skin looking fresh and hygienic. The new product also features a revolutionary time-release mechanism which continuously moisturizes the face, utilizing plant derived thermal insulation. This system allows makeup to remain flawless on the face for up to 24 hours.

Colorstay Makeup comes in a convenient 30ml size, and protects the skin from UV rays as well. A video tutorial for Revlon Colorstay Makeup by acclaimed makeup artist Michiru can be seen at http://meturl.com/revlon.

● Revlon Colorstay Makeup (SPF15, 30mL, 6 cols): ¥2,100 ● Revlon Colorstay Concealer (6.2mL, 2 colors): ¥1,575 SHOP URL

www.revlon-japan.com

TIP TOP TAP Akabanebashi Esthetic

Special offer

50% off waxing services on your first visit and 20% off gel and shellac items.

Menu

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ail newbies and veterans alike might have their own nail nest on their radar, or they might be shopping about for new ones. But whoever you are, you need to sample the cozy, private nail salon experience offered

by Tip-Top-Tap. The owner Mai is feted as something of a guru in New York City, where she took care of the talons of celebrities. All in all she has been plying her trade for ten years, working on

fashion shows and decorating the shows' models.

Going to Tip-Top-Tap is just like going round to a good friend’s place. During the treatment you can recline on a comfortable chair with a cup of coffee and watch TV while Mai goes to work. She does gel manicures and pedicures, as well as nail waxing.

Her studio is located conveniently a few steps from Akabanebashi station.

● Brazilian wax ¥3,400 (reg. ¥6,800) ● Under Arms ¥1,100 (reg. ¥2,200) ● Full legs ¥4,000 (reg. ¥8,000) ● Shellac from ¥4,800 ● Gel Nail from ¥6,500 ● Toenails from ¥6,800

B1F Rever Hayashi, 1-18-7 Higashi-Azabu, Minato-ku

03-6822-2737

SHOP URL

Open Mon-Sat 11am-10pm, closed Sun & 1st & 2nd Mon Akabanebashi http://tip-top-tap.jimdo.com

HAYATO TOKYO Roppongi Hair Salon

Special offer For first time visitors: ● Cut + color: ¥14,000→From ¥9,800 ●Cut + full color: ¥17,500→From ¥12,250 ●Cut + perm: ¥14,000→From ¥9800 ●Cut + digital perm: ¥17,000→From ¥11,900 ●Cut + treatment: ¥10,500→From ¥7,350 All offers include a 15min shiatsu massage, shampoo and blow dry

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ayato Salon just completed its first anniversary in its new Roppongi location after moving from Omotesando. It was first established back in 1994 in New York City, and opened doors in London five years ago. Right now the three global Hayato branches are in the three most sophisticated hairstyling cities of the world.

Hayato guarantees absolute satisfaction to all customers. Each team member is completely bilingual,

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and all try their very best to create a relaxing, comfortable, and classy environment. The hairstylists are all experts at handling the varied hair types of foreigners.

Hayato himself, the founder, spent more than 12 years developing a training program for his staff. They obtain on-the-job training at Hayato New York for two years, learning to speak English. Only after completing that program are they finally permitted to debut as a hairstylist at Hayato Tokyo.

206 The Roppongi Tokyo

Plaza, 3-7-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku 03-5574-8844 Open Mon & Wed-Sat & hols 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm, closed Tue Roppongi www.hayatosalons.com

SHOP URL

Summer Special BASI PILATES Various locations Health & Fitness

Special offer ● Free admission (reg. ¥15,750) ● 3 machine private lessons for ¥18,000

Menu ● 4 private lessons for ¥37,500/month ● 5 private lessons for ¥45,000/month

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ilates provides a holistic way to move beyond traditional exercise. It combines physical strengthbuilding and breathing exercises that cater to your headspace. Stop in at one of 11 Tokyo studios to get to know Basi Pilates. With some 20 million practitioners worldwide, Pilates uses the mind to control muscle, builds flexibility, strength, and increases coordination in the legs, abdominals, arms, and back. Deep muscles that support your

skeleton are toned—not just surface muscles reached by ordinary exercise. Pilates helps you access this power for the first time. Contractions can then be managed daily to improve your posture and physical well being. During sessions, you’ll direct your thoughts inward. Concentration and breathing exercises help focus the mind. Lessons will fly by quickly–but you’ll be left feeling refreshed and ready to continue with your week.

Studios in Roppongi, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yokohama, etc. (Please check site for details) 03-6425-7054 roppongi@basipilates.jp www.basipilates.jp/english

SHOP URL

VEDA PLUS Azabu-Juban Health & Fitness

Special offer ● Free trial yoga lesson ● 1 yoga lesson for ¥2,500 or ● 10 yoga lessons for ¥20,000 ● Monthly pass for ¥25,000 or ● 3-month pass for ¥60,000 ● Private yoga lessons available

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edaPlus and its bilingual staff offer three powerhouses of self-sustenance for busy Tokyoites: yoga, astrology and massage therapy. Yoga at VedaPlus connects you with inner peace and tranquility, and helps you tap into an unlimited source of energy. Drop-in classes start at just ¥2,500 and yoga mats, blocks, bolsters and chairs are available free of charge, along with blankets and sand bags. They also have showers

plus private rooms to change, powder your nose, or for the kids to use. Early birds should try the popular morning yoga classes, Tuesday and Thursdays 7-8am. The multitude of massage therapy options at VedaPlus will allow you to relax and restore your mental and physical energy, self-balance and general positivity. VedaPlus also provides consultation on the ancient arts of astrology: Ayurveda, Vaastu and Feng Shui.

201, 3-10-9 Sansui Heim, Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku

03-6434-5448 info@vedaplusmotoazabu.jp Mon-Sun, 7am-10pm.

Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban www.vedaplusmotoazabu.jp

SHOP URL

MAPLE ORTHODONTIC CLINIC Ningyocho Dental Clinic

Special offer 5% off orthodontic treatment for Metropolis readers

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traightening teeth is a great way to improve your or your kids’ smiles and selfesteem. For best results it’s never too early to find a good orthodontist for the kids—like Nihonbashi’s Maple Clinic. Maple’s Dr. George Yamaguchi, a graduate of Hokkaido University School of Dental Medicine, was born in LA and lived in Toronto (hence the maple emblem). He welcomes foreign clientele and their families to his beautifully designed and friendly

office. Maple Clinic specializes in low-cost, high-quality whitening and esthetic dental services with a free consultation and examination for first-time patients. Those in need of general treatment can be referred to a reliable dentist. If your family started treatment overseas, Dr. Yamaguchi will continue it seamlessly at his clinic. He believes everyone should have access to orthodontic treatment, so Maple Clinic provides world-class treatment in a state-of-the-art facility at a reasonable price.

1F Kobayashi Yoko Bldg,

1-15-7 Kakigara-cho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku 0120-199-053 Open Tue-Fri noon-3pm & 4-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-1pm & 2:30-6:30pm, closed Mon Suitengumae www.maple-ortho.com

SHOP URL

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Summer Special TERAOKA DENTAL CLINIC Shinagawa Dental Clinic

Teraoka Dental Clinic Menu ● Bite check ● Gum disease treatment ● Crown bridges ● Check up * Consult prices with Dr. Teraoka

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t Teraoka Dental Clinic the philosophy is patients should acknowledge and appreciate the importance of cultivating and maintaining healthy teeth for a lifetime.Each patient is primed to receive the best care for their teeth as they see fit, through the evaluation and building of a plan based on specific needs. The head dentist takes ample time for consultations to fully understand a patient’s uncertainty and concerns. His goal is to provide the

most stress-free and desirable care possible. With a philosophy based on Christian morals, the dentist is a hit with much of the foreign community. He earned his stripes at Florida’s renowned L. D. Pankey Institute. Special promotions include computerized occlusal analysis and treatment of occlusion. Prosthetic treatments are also offered, along with T. M. D. (temporomandibular disorder) treatment for jaw ache, among others. Japanese national insurance is accepted, and private plans, too.

Kameda Bldg. 3F 5-6-14 Nakanobu Shinagawa-ku 03-787-0230 Open Mon-Tue & Thu-Sat

9:30 am-12:30 & 2-7pm Ebaramachi

SHOP URL

TRUST DENTAL CLINIC Harajuku Dental Clinic

Special offer For Metropolis Readers: 50% off teeth cleaning, 20%off dental implant. Offer ends Jul 31.

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ort out your lasting dental issues this summer, or just go in for a warm-weather clean up at Trust Dental Clinic (formerly Tokyo Adventist Dental Clinic). The institute provides dental care of the highest international standards for the city’s international community. Including OSHA compatible sterilization and infection control techniques, quality services include dental implants, oral surgery, preventive and restorative dentistry.Dr.

Oikawa, a member of the American Dental Association, is licensed in the United States and has 20 years of clinical experience in hospital dentistry under his belt. His hygienists are trained overseas in the US and the UK. They welcome consultation visits and second-opinion appointments. Japanese National Health Insurance is accepted, so remember your insurance ID card. For private insurance, clinic staff can help with your claim forms.

1-11-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

03-3402-1501 Open Mon,Wed, Fri 9:30am-5:30pm and Tues 9:30am-1pm; 2 Suns per month Harajuku www.adventistdental.jp

SHOP URL

JAPAN APARTMENT Gotanda Apartments

Special offer Up to ¥30,000 off monthly rent among other campaigns-check website for details

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he t h re e bi g bu gb e a rs of key money, deposit and guarantor are all off the radar as soon as you make contact with this major agency, which offers over 900 properties in 70 locations. And though it might seem an impressive number, the ease of JAPT ’s services means most living solutions are snapped up as soon as they hit the market.Dwellings are available for all needs and desires, with shared guesthouses, private apartments and more on

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the menu—for both short- and long-term rental— starting at just ¥60,000 per month. Residences are fully furnished, often including the cookware and linen that turn an apartment into a home. Internet access is arranged before you move in, meaning no forms to fill in or difficult phone-calls to make. And getting started couldn’t be easier, with a bilingual website on which to browse homes to your heart’s content, and English-speaking staff to get you on your way.

3-5-17 Nishi-Gotanda,

Shinagawa-ku 03-5437-5233 info@japt.co.jp Gotanda www.tokyoeasyrent.com/en

SHOP URL

Summer Special FONTANA Nakano Apartments

Special offer First-time clients get ¥3,000 off their first month’s rent.

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enting in Tokyo can be complicated, with aspects like key money, agency fees, and guarantors. But there’s a way around these tricky details. For individuals, couples or families in search of affordable housing, Fontana can provide exceptional customer service and a place meeting your particular needs. The approachable staff have plenty of experience dealing with people from all over the world, shown in their range of languages—English, French,

Portuguese, Spanish, and, naturally, Japanese.Prices are reasonable, with guesthouse rooms starting at ¥55,000/ month and apartments as low as ¥70,000/month. Set up in urban hubs such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi, these housing solutions can be your platform for a better life, and a key to unlocking the wonders of Tokyo. Drop by the office any time and say hello. They’re open for consultation every day of the year, from 9:30am until 7pm—and they’re always happy to meet new inquirers.

1F Asahi Mansion, 3-31-5 Chuo, Nakano-ku

03-3382-0151 Open daily 9:30am-7pm Shin-Nakano inquiry@ tokyocityappartments.net www.tokyocityapartments. net

SHOP URL

ARC ACADEMY Shinjuku Japanese School

Menu ● Summer Programs: ¥40,000-¥244,000 ● Intensive Course (4 days to 3 months): ¥18,000-¥170,000

7F Nishishinjuku K-1 Bldg,

A

RC Academy is offering a Summer Program for aspiring Japanese speakers of any level this summer. Study the language in the morning, then tuck into activities in the afternoon that infuse you with aspects of Japanese culture.

The Summer Program takes place in ARC’s Shinjuku branch, convenient as a travel hub and a concentrated center of Tokyo life in all its forms. For those purely interested in learning the lingo, ARC’s

Intensive Course is offered in Shibuya, Shinjuku and Yokohama branches with flexible durations—as short as four days through to months and years. For company training lessons, ARC’s personnel are happy to custom make a curriculum to fit individual schedules and needs. Whether you are looking for basic conversational skills or business terminology, ARC Academy offers the best results. Friendly teachers and staff welcome your inquiries by email, telephone or in person.

7-2-6 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 03-5348-7671; Shibuya 03-3409-0391; Yokohama 045-312-5759 Open: Tue 10am-7:30pm, Mon & Wed-Fri 10am-6:30pm, Sat 10am-4pm, closed Sun & hols Shinjuku shinjuku@arc.ac.jp http://en.arc-academy.net

SHOP URL

WE JAPANESE LANGUAGE SCHOOL Shibuya Japanese School

Special offer ● No registration fee (until Jul 31) ● Free trial lesson

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ocated in the heart of bustling Shibuya, We Japanese Language School prides itself on providing quality lessons and a premium service to fulfill your needs and help you achieve your goals. Experienced instructors offer customized lessons that address the learner’s specific academic needs, ensuring you’ll acquire the practical Japanese needed for your life in Japan. We also has English and Chinese language schools in

the same building, offering the chance to mingle with people from around the world through social events and a language-exchange program.We offers flexible scheduling, seven days a week, from 7am-10pm, and is conveniently located three minutes from Shibuya station. Off-site services are also available for those who have a busy schedule. Contact We to schedule a free trial lesson today. New summer courses are now available!

4F Higashi Nihon Bldg, 1-22-8 Shibuya

03-5489-6480 Open Mon-Fri 7am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm, closed hols Shibuya info@we-japan.com www.we-japan.com

SHOP URL

#1004 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 17

Summer Special DEN ROKUEN-TEI Shibuya Restaurant

Menu ● Standard barbeque set: ¥2,980/person ● Premium barbeque set: ¥4,500/person *2 people minimum 2-hour all-you-can-drink and barbecue courses also available

O

n the 8th floor of the iconic Parco building in Shibuya, this restaurant has been a mainstay for 12 years, supplying punters with a harmonious taste of Kyoto through its décor and philosophy. In addition to their signature kaiseki courses (reservation only), its chefs offer freshwater eel and seafood, ochazuke, handmade udon, traditional Japanese set meals, bento boxes, and a range of delicious drinks.

At the rooftop beer garden this summer, gaze on the breathtaking Tokyo skyline while quaffing whisky highballs and beer, and tucking into an A-grade barbeque. The standard set (¥2,980) includes wagyu beef, sausage, thick bacon, grilled vegetables and sanchu lettuce to wrap the meat, while the premium set (¥4,500) offers up three kinds of finest quality wagyu meat. English menu available.

KAMATA HAKENSHA (KENMAX INC.) Tawaramachi

8F Parco 1, 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku

03-6415-5489 rokuen-tei@myu.sgn.ne.jp Open lunch Mon-Thu & Sun 11am-3:30pm, dinner 5-10:30pm, Fri-Sat & hols 5pm-10:30pm http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g045624

SHOP URL

Special offer Metropolis readers making any purchase over ¥10,000 will receive a large nail clipper for free.

Menu

E

stablished in 1923 with a history spanning four generations, Asakusa cutlery maker Kamata Hakensha knows how to slice it. The company’s 800-strong product lineup includes topgrade handmade knives as well as factory-made ranges. These blades have made repeat customers of some of the world’s finest chefs, thanks to stringent quality checks and a 100-percent satisfaction

● Special: 2-knife set with hard case, ¥17,400 ● 17 layer stainless steel Santoku, ¥6,200 ● 17 layer stainless steel Santoku with Japanese wooden handle, ¥9,800 ● 17 layer stainless steel small knife with Japanese wooden handle ¥7,500 ● 62 layer cobalt stainless steel 2-knife set with hard case, ¥21,400 guarantee. All the knives are designed by the owner, created by skilled craftsmen, and individually edged.

Free engraving and an inexpensive sharpening service seal the deal on a fine gift idea. They can engrave your name for free on any knife selected in just three minutes. Perfect for a gift or souvenir of your visit or stay in Tokyo.

2-12-6 Matsugaya, Taito-ku 03-3841-4205

SHOP URL

Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, closed Sun Tawaramachi http://kap-kam.com/en

YOUR WISH IS YOUR COMMAND

Special offer ● 14 CDs for a 21-day trial absolutely free ● Chance to win an all-expenses-paid $5,000value cruise for free ● 30-minute free mentoring session via Skype or phone

Y

ou might have read books like The Secret, Think And Grow Rich, and Ask And It Is Given. These books are very good, but all miss the secret key ingredient that makes the information really work, and work fast. For the first time ever, the secrets previously exclusive to the privileged elite class are revealed. Now you can use this knowledge to achieve wealth, power, money, luck, romance, love, and dynamic health.

18 ● SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Order today to receive the 14 CDs absolutely free, for a 21-day trial. At the end of the trial, you can send them all back at no charge (no questions asked). If you like the course, you’ll be given the opportunity of purchasing it at a special discount price. There is absolutely no obligation to buy anything. To order the 14 CD series, just send your name, address, and phone number to 14cdseries@successsecrets.jp. This offer is valid for a limited time only.

050-5532-2260 14cdseries@successsecrets.jp

Summer Special HARBOR CIRCUIT Chiba Circuit

Special offer Two-hour, "all-you-can ride" passport Fri & Sat. 6-11pm (entry by 9pm)

Menu

Admission: ¥500, balaclava: ¥300 (inc. helmet and gloves) ¥2,000, 3 tickets (7 min x 3): ¥5,000, 5 tickets (7 min x 5): ¥7,500 Family package: ¥3,000

F

or a hair-raising laugh with friends this summer, summon a group together and hot-t a i l it to H a rb or C i rc u it i n C h i b a , where you can pile into go-karts and race away your pent-up adrenaline.No driver’s license is required and beginners have no need worry as all safety gear is provided. Four or more people can choose a “Group Race” and burn up some tires against friends. You could also go for the

simpler “Mini GP” option or a final 40-lap race—with five different plans to choose from. Other options include three races for ¥5,000, five for ¥7,500, or eight for ¥10,000, the seven-minute “Arrive & Drive” (¥2,000), the “Time Attack,” endurance races, and seven-minute time trails. To sharpen skills, individuals can also prove themselves against a real-time ranking system. And once you’ve tried it, you’ll be screaming back for more.

2F Harbor Circuit, Chiba Sports Plaza, 13-26 Dezuminato, Chuo-ku, Chiba 043-441-3243 mail@harbor-circuit.com SHOP URL Open Mon-Fri, 2-11:30pm, Sat & hols 10am-11:30pm, Sun 10am-9:30pm Chiba or Chiba-minato www.harbor-circuit.com

FARM TAKANAWA CLUB ATAMI Atami Hotel

Special offer AFTERNOON TEA

F

arm Takanawa Club’s scenic hotel in the Atami hills is your secret escape from Tokyo— be it for a relaxing weekend away, or just an elegant meal with a view.

A stay at Takanawa’s “puchi” (petit) hotel is perfect for people who like the onsen concept but are not in the mood for the traditional Japanese style. The facility is just a year old, and there are only six guest rooms. The onsen area is clean and well-designed, and since only overnight guests have access, there is no feeling that a thousand bums have been gracing the stools and bathing pools before you. Instead of the typical communal experience one would expect from a hot-springs resort, Farm Takanawa Club gives you a beautiful hot spring in a semi-private, exclusive environment.

While the naturally heated pool is just for hotel patrons, anyone can enjoy the fantastic views of Atami from up in the hills overlooking the bay. Good sightlines to Atami Castle, Hatsushima, and the great expanse of Pacific Ocean provide a stunning backdrop to your meal in the “Kai” restaurant. Organic produce is grown on-site, and you can look down at the greenhouse and rows of herbs and vegetables

Menu

SUITE (#301)

from your dining room seat.

In addition to fresh, delicious meals, Farm Takanawa Club is where patissier Yoshinori Omi concocts his mouth-watering pastries. Excellent European-style baked goods including French bread are made daily and are available to the public.

Free pickup service from Atami Station is available, and English-speaking staff are happy to take inquiries by phone or email.

Price (per person, includes breakfast and dinner) ● Superior Deluxe Twin (#404) ¥12,500 (2 in room) ¥10,500 (3 in room) ● Suite (#301) ¥15,500 (2 in room) ¥12,500 (3 in room) ¥12,500 (4 in room) Hotel has a total of 6 rooms. ¥9,500~15,500 per person (2 in room)

Area Map Total Area: 7,000 square metres Hotel Cafe (2F) Herb Garden

Fruit Green House

Parking Flower Garden

Vegetable Garden SUPERIOR DELUXE TWIN (#404)

For Metropolis readers: 10% off room charge or free petite afternoon tea set

Outdoor Stage

1-21-18 Nishi-Atami-cho, Atami, Shizuoka 0557-86-2082 farm@takanawaclub.jp Open bakery 11am-5pm; SHOP URL lunch 11am-2pm; café 2-5pm; dining room from 6pm www.takanawaclub.jp/farm/ hotel/hotel.html

Vegetable Green House

#1004 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 19

Agenda Listings

Submit your event at metropolis.co.jp/listings/submit

Sendai Kamotsu

J-POP

SID

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

Chara

Unconventional songstress with a husky voice. Jul 11, 7pm, ¥4,000 (adv, standing)/ ¥4,500 (adv, seated) +1d.

O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5458-4681. shibuya-o. com/east

M-Flo

Barks launches English site J-pop fanatics now have a new source for information on their favorite bands and idols. Leading music website Barks has launched an English edition with the latest updates on the successes and foibles of the likes of Buck Tick, Flumpool and the inevitable AKB48. Aiming for maximum international impact, Barks made the announcement at a “J-rock Matters presented

by Barks” event at the Music Matters Asian music biz conference in Singapore. The level of English on its website is risible, but the sheer depth of information makes Barks’ English edition a go-to source for those without top Japanese chops. www.en.barks.jp

Concerts

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com

POPULAR

Nano-Mugen Circuit 2013

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

Andre DiMuzio

Electronic and synthesizercentric tunes. Jun 21, 7pm, free. The Juke Joint. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-64272528. www.thejukejoint.jp

The Hitch Lowke

Osaka charmers with The Wasted, Chameleon and more. Jun 21, 5pm, ¥2,400 (adv)/ ¥2,900 +1d, 5pm. Shibuya The Game.

Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3409-1336. www. shibuyathegame.com

Scandal

J-pop princesses disguised as rock chicks. Jun 22, 7pm.

Zepp Diver City. Nearest stn: Daiba. www.red-hot.ne.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: 03-64272528. www.jukejoint.jp

Z-Machines

Robot rockband. Jun 24, 7:30pm, free for the first 1,000 guests. Liquidroom.

Nearest station: Ebisu. www. liquidroom.net

Pinback

Progressive rock with sing-along choruses. Jun 27, 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: 03-34778750. www.club-quattro. com

Story of the Year

Missouri rock gods. Jun 28, 7pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d.

O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

Daigo Stardust

Showcase event with live performances by Brian O'Reilly and more. Jun 30, 5:30pm, ¥2,000 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d. SuperDeluxe. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-5412-0515. www.tfom2013.tumblr.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. http://eplus.jp

Mongol 800

Okinawa rock legends. Jul 5, 6:30pm, ¥5,800 (adv).

Nippon Budokan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. www.l-tike.com

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 J-rock from Kyushu with angular melodies and quirky lyrics. Jul 15, 6pm, ¥3,800 (adv) +1d. Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 050-55330888.

Merengue

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

Buzz The Bears

Melodic J-rock with a sprinkling of punk. Jul 18, 7pm, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. O-West. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3499-6669. www.creativeman.co.jp/ artist/2013/07buzzthebears

Otohime Matsuri

One-day music fes feat. bands with female vocalists. i-Rabbits, Oz, Jack Pot Bell and more.

Jul 20, 1pm, ¥3,000 (adv) +1d.

O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 050-5533-0888.

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

Mix Speaker’s Inc

Cosplay visual-kei band, currently with a pirate theme.

Jul 21, 5pm, ¥4,000 (adv) +1d.

WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 050-5533-0888.

Summer Madness

Visual kei outfit. Jul 7, 6pm, ¥4,500 (adv). Zepp Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Aomi. Tel: 0570-084-003. www.l-tike.com

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

Chill the Punk

Fuji Rock Festival

Vistlip

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

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. shibuyamilkyway.com

9mm Parabellum Bullet

Punk and heavy metal-influenced melodic rock.

Jul 9, 7pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d.

Club Lizard. Tel: 050-5533-0888.

Overload of pop culture. Jul 27-28, 10am-10pm, ¥5,000 (1 day)/ ¥9,000 (2 days). Zepp Tokyo. Nearest stn: Aomi. www. idolfes/com/2013

What I Got

Orange Range and Good Morning America. Jul 30, 7pm, ¥3,200 (adv)/¥3,700 (door) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-8750. www.club-quattro.com

Björk

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

Zazen Boys

Tokyo Festival of Modular

Tokyo Idol Festival

No More Fuckin’ Nukes

Down Beat Ruler

Party in the park with Shugo Tokumaru, Cero, Sam Amiden and more. Jun 30, noon, ¥4,500 (adv). Tokorozawa Koku Kinen Park. Nearest stn: Koku Koen.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. tonofon.com/fes13

J-metal fes feat. Damage Digital, Motiveless and more.

Jul 27, 4:30pm, ¥2,000 (adv)/ ¥2,500 (door). Zone-B. Nearest stn: Waseda. Tel: 03-32036022. www.tanabata-ex. blogspot.jp

Mumford & Sons

Mo’ Let's Rock and Roll School

Tonofon Festival

Tanabata Extreme

Famed Breakers vocalist and TV monkey companion goes solo. Jul 12, 6:30pm, ¥6,500 (adv) +1d. Shibuya Koukaido.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 050-5533-0888.

Music festival presented by Asian Kung-Fu Generation with Sara Radle, Radical Dads and more. Jun 28, 6:30pm, ¥4,500 (adv) +1. Tokyo Dome City Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi.

Tel: 050-5533-0888. www. nano-mugen.com

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

WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 050-5533-0888.

Mother of all J-rock fests. Björk, Nine Inch Nails, The Cure, Vampire Weekend, etc. Jul 26-Jul 28. ¥16,800 (1 day, adv) ¥17,800 (1 day, gen)/ ¥39,800 (3 day, adv)/¥42,800 (3 day, gen) Naeba Ski Resort. Nearest stn: Echigo Yuzawa. www. fujirockfestival.com

Nocturnal Bloodlust

Melodic metal visual-kei band.

Jul 26, 7pm, ¥3,000 (adv) +1d.

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

UK folk rock. Jul 30, 7pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com Quirky Icelandic singer who fearlessly dabbles in all genres. Jul 31, 8pm; Aug 3, 8pm; Aug 6, 8pm, ¥22,000 (adv). Miraikan. Nearest stn: Telecom Center station.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com

Bull Shit Records Release Rock bands Roach, Rizing 2 End, Neverlost and more.

Jul 31, 5:30pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d.

F.A.D. Yokohama. Nearest stn: Ishikawacho. Tel: 045-663-3842. www. fad-music.com. Aug 4, 2pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d. Shibuya Milkyway.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. shibuyamilkyway.com

Golden Bomber

Talk of the nation comedic foursome with visual kei roots.

Aug 1-2, 6:30pm, ¥5,775 (adv).

Nippon Budokan. Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 0570-084003. www.l-tike.com

Steve Vai

Unique and dynamic guitar genius. Aug 1, 7pm, ¥7,000 (adv). Akasaka Blitz. Nearest stn: Akasaka. Tel: 03-34996669. www.creativeman.co.jp

Rock in Japan Fes

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Zazen Boys, Mongol 800, etc. Aug 2-4. 10:30am, ¥11,500 (1 day)/ ¥22,000 (2 days)/¥30,000 (3 days). National Hitachi Kaihin Park. Nearest stn: Kaihinkoen. www.rijfes.jp

A-Nation Island

Music and dance festival with artists Kumi Koda, E-Girls, Scandal and more. Aug 3-11. various times, ¥4,5007,500 (adv). Yoyogi National Gymnasium and Shibuya-AX. Nearest station: Harajuku. http://a-nation.net

Aerosonic

Aerosmith and B'z reunite in Chiba. Aug 8, 5:30pm, ¥12,00015,000 (adv). QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: KaihinMakuhari. Tel: 03-3499-6669. www.creativeman.co.jp/ artist/2013/08aerosonic

Zushi Fes

Beach fes with Totalfat, Scandal, etc. Aug 9-11, noon, ¥7,800 (one day)/¥23,400 (three days). Zushi Marina.

Nearest stn: Riviera Zushi Marina Mae or Kotsubo. www. mtvjapan.com/zushifes2013

Sonicmania

Summer Sonic pre-event with The Stone Roses, Pet Shop Boys, etc. Aug 9, 10pm, ¥9,800 (adv) +1d/ ¥35,000 (weekend pass, adv) +1d. Makuhari Messe.

Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari.

Tel: 03-3499-6669. www. summersonic.com/2013/ english

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS Summer Sonic

Metallica, Stone Roses, Muse, and more. Aug 10-11, from ¥15,500. Makuhari Messe.

Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. www.summersonic.com

World Happiness Festival Kid-friendly fest with Midnight Suns, Michiko Shimizu and more. Aug 11, 12:30pm, ¥1,0009,000 (adv). Yumenoshima Park. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba.

Tel: 0570-084-632. www. world-happiness.com

Punkafoolic! Bayside Crash

Punk fest with some of Japan's top rockers, inc Secret 7 Line, Asshole Unite, etc. Aug 17, noon, ¥3,500 (adv)/ ¥4,000 (door) +1d.

Harumi Port Terminal. Nearest stn: Kachidoki. Tel: 03-68053518. www.punkafoolic.com

Rottengraffty

J-rock-punk-metal hybrid band. Aug 20, 6:30pm, ¥2,800 (adv) +1d. Eggman. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 050-5533-0888.

Thirty Seconds to Mars

Actor Jared Leto's pet project turned recordbreaking cult band. Aug 21, 7pm, ¥6,3000.

Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu.

Tel: 03-3499-6669. www. creativeman.co.jp/english

Onda Vaga

Argentine folk-pop quintet.

Sep 12, 7:30pm, ¥6,000. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3444-6751. www. smash-jpn.com

Pitbull

Party rapper with catchy lyrics. Sep 13, 7pm; Sep 14, 6pm, ¥9,000 (adv). Tokyo International Forum Hall A. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3499-6669. www. creativeman.co.jp

Wire 13

All-night electro fes with Djs Takkyu Ishino, Ken Ishii and more. Sep 14, 6pm, ¥11,500 (adv). Yokohama Arena. Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama. www. wireweb.jp/13

JAZZ/WORLD Avant

US R&B singer-songwriter. Jun 21, ¥8,400. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Laura Mvula

Soul singer-songwriter from the UK. Jun 21, ¥6,500 & ¥8,500. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-54850088. www.bluenote.co.jp

Picnic Soup

Kuricorder Quartet and Humbert & Humbert. Jul 9, 7pm, ¥3,800 (adv)/ ¥4,300 (door) +1d. Club Quattro.

Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

Baiana System

The Bahia guitar hits new territory with a musical collage. Jul 29, 7pm, ¥4,500 (adv) +1. WWW. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3498-2881. www.plankton.co.jp/baiana

Quincy Jones

Big band legend celebrates his 80th birthday by touring the world with a group of talented artists. Jul 31, 7pm; Aug 1, 7pm, ¥8,000-12,000. Tokyo International Forum Hall A. Nearest stn: Yurakucho. Jul 28, ¥25,000 (adv). Blue Note.

Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.q80.jp

Yokohama Steelpan Festa Two days of Caribbean beats.

Aug 10-11, 1pm, free. Yamashita Park. Nearest stn: MotomachiChukagai. Tel: taiki.nishihara@ nonoka.com. www.nonaka.com

Sumida Street Jazz Festival Free outdoor jazz festival. Free shuttle bus available between stage areas. Aug 17-18, free.

Sumida area. Nearest station: Kinchicho and Oshiage. www. sumida-jazz.jp

Earth Celebration

Legendary Kodo drummers' festival. Aug 23-25. Various prices. Ogi Town, Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture. www.kodo. or.jp/ec/en

Latin Festival Animate

Cuban salsa music maestros Havana D'Primera and more.

Aug 31, 5:30pm, ¥7,500-8,500.

Zepp Diver City. Nearest stn: Daiba. Tel: 03-35275256. http://meturl.com/ latinanimate

Tokyo Jazz

Leading jazz festival. Sep 6-8, ¥6,500-9,500 (individual concerts)/ ¥18,000 (1 day pass).

Tokyo International Forum.

Nearest stn: Tokyo. www. tokyo-jazz.com

CLASSICAL 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

Jazz piano phenomenon. Jun 22, ¥2,500 (adv) +1d. Naru.

Nearest stn: Ochanomizu. Tel: 03-3291-2321. www.jazz-naru. com

The Magic Flute performed for young children, ages 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

Nerima Tea Club

Tokyo Sinfonia in June

Yuki Futami

Strange ol’ European music played by tuba-player Gideon Juckes and 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

Emi Meyer

Half-US, half-Japanese singer-songwriter with pretty melodies and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Jul 4, 7:30pm, ¥5,000 (adv) +1d. O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3498-2881. www.emimeyer.com

Central Avenue Blues

Mitsuyoshi Adzuma and The Swing Boppers, Bloodest Saxophone and Mikio Itou.

Jul 6, 6pm, ¥3,800 (adv)/ ¥4,300 (door) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. club-quattro.com

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

Seong-Jin Cho

Korean pianist performs Beethoven, Chopin and more. Jun 24, 7pm, ¥4,500.

Hamarikyu Asahi Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibashi. Tel: 03-5774-3040. 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

Isidro Barrio

Spanish pianist plays works

by Chopin, Albeniz and more.

Jun 28, 7pm, ¥2,000-3,000.

Sumida Triphony Hall.

g Frieancset n i v i d y Sk Expe ing

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5428-0571. www.triphony. com

Sarah Brightman

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

Senritsu no Kyoen

Brahms, Chopin and more. Jul 12, 7pm, ¥2,000-3,500. Mori no Hall. Nearest stn: Hashimoto.

Tel: 042-742-9999. www. hall-net.or.jp/02hashimoto

Tokyo Sinfonia in July

Brahms, Weber and Beethoven with clarinetist Wenzel Fuchs. Jul 18, 7pm, ¥5,000-10,000. Oji Hall.

Nearest stn: Ginza. Tel: tickets@tokyosinfonia.com. www.tokyosinfonia.com

Nikolay Khozyainov

21-year old Russian pianist plays works by Chopin, Liszt and others. Jul 19, 7pm, ¥4,500. Hamarikyu Asahi Hall. Nearest stn: Shibashi.

Tel: 03-5774-3040. www. japanarts.co.jp

The von Trapps

The great-grandchildren of Captain von Trapp perform songs from The Sound of Music. Jul 29, 6:30pm, ¥5,0006,500. Sumida Triphony Hall.

Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony. com

Saito Kinen Festival

Classical music festival led by director Seiji Ozawa.

Aug 12-Sep 7. various times, various prices. 69-2 Mizukuma, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano.

Tel: 0570-063-050 www. saito-kinen.com

com/wmc2013

Takarazuka Boys

Musical performance celebrating the beauty and wonders of youth. Until Jul 31, ¥4,500-8,800 (adv).

Theater Crea. Nearest stn: Hibiya. Tel: 03-3201-7777. www.takarazuka-boys.jp

Les Contes D'Hoffmann

Opera by Jacques Offenbach.

Jul 31, 6:30pm; Aug 1, 6:30pm; Aug 3-4, 2pm, ¥2,000-18,000.

New National Theatre Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www. nntt.jac.go.jp/english

Dance Don Quixote

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

Alice in Wonderland

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

Breathing Monster

International collaboration of choreographers Myriam Goufink, Kaori Seki and Teita Iwabuchi, accompanied by composer Kasper Toeplitz. Jul 6, 7pm; Jul 7, 4pm, ¥3,000 (adv)/ ¥3,500 (door). Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. Tel: 045-2011514. http://meturl.com/2n

A Gala Evening with The Royal Ballet

Stage

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

4 Stars: One World of Broadway Musicals

Matthew Bourne's Dorian Gray

Lea Salona, Ramin Karimloo and others perform songs from Les Misérables and more.

Jun 21-23, ¥8,000-11,500.

Aoyama Round Theater.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. http:// kyodotokyo.com/4starstokyo

An und Aus

By award-winning German playwright Roland Schimmelpfennig. Jun 4-23, 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

A contemporary version of the classic Oscar Wilde novel. Both Japanese and UK productions available. Until Jul 15, ¥6,00010,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.bunkamura.co.jp/ english/orchard

Swan Lake

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

Clubbing FRIDAY 21

Featuring new kabuki performer, Matagoro Nakamura. Jul 3, 1:30pm, ¥4,500-¥5,500. Green Hall.

Nearest stn: Sagami-Oono.

Tel: 042-742-9999.

Scheherazade

Ballet about One Thousand and One Nights storyteller. Jul 13-15, ¥5,000-14,000. Bunkyo Civic Hall. Tel: 050-37766184. 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

Wien Musical Concert II

Performances from Vampire, Rebecca, etc.. Jul 20-21, 12:30 & 5:30pm; Jul 22, 1:30pm, ¥5,000-11,500. Theatre Orb. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. www.umegei.

Module

Oto no Minamoto. Disco, electro: DJs Sino, Pony, etc.

From 10pm, ¥2,000 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. module-tokyo.com

The New Matrix Bar

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

The Room

Wah Wah. Rare groove: DJs Kuroda, Ryuhei, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Start: 8:45 or 10:45am at Ootone Airport Airport & pick up location info: http://www.skydivefast.com/access Pick up: 6:50am at Tokyo Metropolitan Theater, 3min walk from Ikebukuro stn (west gate park) Price: Tandem Skydiving: ¥39,800 Personalized video: ¥10,000 Max Weight: 80kg

www.skydivefast.com Tel: 04-2956-7597 (Business Hours: 9am~7pm, everyday)

J-STAR PATENT, TRADEMARK & IMMIGRATION OFFICE

Unit

Tokyo Electro Fest. Electro: DJs Mark Jackson, Freeky Yuki, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www. unit-tokyo.com

Reasonable prices.

Free first time consultation We can support you with: Visa and immigration

Velours

Domina-Trix. Fetish: DJs Zil, Chie, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥5,500 w/1d, (f)¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-57784777. www.velours.jp

Intellectual property rights (Patent, trademark, copyrights)

Fantastic. Hip-hop: DJs Hokuto, Kango, 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

Fantastic Dance. House: DJ Daishi Dance. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www. womb.co.jp

SATURDAY 22 Ageha

Patent attorney Immigration lawyer

www.j-star.jp

Imperial Palace

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

WADA Legal & Administrative Office

The Wonderland. Progressive house, progressive trance: DJs Max Graham, Tomas Heredia, etc. From 11pm, ¥4,000. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www.ageha.com

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

Air

Lilith. House, deep house: DJs Navid Izadi, Serizawa, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. air-tokyo.com

Module

Soi. Drumnbass, jungle: DJs Killa, Tack, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo.com Cabaret -A Leap of Faith Edition-. From 11:30pm, ¥2,500. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. Tel: 03-54598633. www.unit-tokyo.com/ saloon/

Exit 4, Nagatacho stn

Aoyama Ave

Other Legal & Business matters Hiroshi Oogai,

Grand Prince Hotel Akasaka

Supreme Court

Establishing a Company & Branch office

Village

Saloon

Shochiku Oh Kabuki

Skydivokyo! near T

DJs Marcel Dettmann, Gonno, etc. From midnight, ¥2,500. Nearest stn: Ebisu.

Tel: 03-464-0800. www. liquidroom.net

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

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

Sound Museum Vision

JUN 21, 28, JUL 6 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

Blue Nation. Hip-hop, electro: DJs Sakurai, Bots, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. vision-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

The Room

Pool Biraki. Electro: DJs Off the Rocker, Taku, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www.ageha.com

In Motion. House, crossover: DJs M-Swift, Tatsuru, etc.

From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. theroom.jp

Air

Unit

Love Tribe. House: DJs Nozaki, Shacho, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Liquidroom

Marcel Dettmann. Techno:

Summer Party. Rap idol DJs Kawanabe, Ueno, etc: Live: Cherry Brown and more. From midnight, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www. unit-tokyo.com

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 21

Agenda Listings

Submit your event at metropolis.co.jp/listings/submit

CLUBBING

10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)free.

Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-5778-4777. www.velours.jp

Womb

Harvey. House, techno: DJs Harvey, Takimi, etc. Jun 29, from 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-54590039. www.womb.co.jp

Exhibitions AKASAKA/ROPPONGI 21_21 Design Sight

Grid Inveterate geinokai prankster and underground dance-music DJ Bryan Burton-Lewis has opened a futuristic new club in Aoyama. Grid, he says, aims to recreate the atmosphere of legendary venues like Maniac Love that once peppered Aoyama’s Koto dori area. Grid draws on Lewis’s deep connections with Japan’s dance-music scene developed by running Fuji Rock’s legendary All-Night Fuji Friday night electronic music sessions. Look for Lewis with the impish grin.

He’s as often as not to be found behind the decks himself at his very own “smart lounge.” www.smart-lounge-grid.jp

Village

Grand Slam. Hip-hop: DJs Nuckey, Yuma, 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

Unit

Brainfeeder. Rock, funk DJs Laplux, Teebs, etc: Live: Thundercat. From 11pm, ¥4,500. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo. com

Womb

06S. Drumnbass: DJs Makoto, Aki, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5459-0039. www. womb.co.jp

Cross Mountain Night. Techno: DJs Rodriguez Jr, Anderson Noise, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb. co.jp

THURSDAY 27

UPCOMING

Air

Source. DJs Goro, Nagai, etc.

From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. air-tokyo.com

The Room

Flash! Hip-hop: DJs Shark, Suwa, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

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

Womb

Steep. Techno, deep house: DJs Stereociti, Ron, etc. From 10pm, ¥1,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

FRIDAY 28 Ageha

SAT JUN 29, 8PM-5AM Smart Lounge GRID

LADIES NIGHT! LADIES FREE UNTIL 11PM House/HipHop/R&B classics Breakbeat Rockers, dirty munoz, DJ MASAKO, Monkeys in Charge & more Mention Metropolis (f) ¥1,000 w/1d (m) ¥2,000 w/1d Tel: 03-6427-9003 www.smart-lounge-grid.jp

Module

Goodweather. Bass music, dancehall: DJs Branco, Mal, etc. Jun 29, from 11pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. module-tokyo.com

Fever. Hip-hop: DJs Hazime, Kango, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,500, (f)¥2,000.

Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. www. ageha.com

Ruby Room

Air

Sound Museum Vision

Uncompleted Release Party.

Bass music, techno: DJs Rs, Dexpistols, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Innocence. Techno, minimal: DJ Crazy Neo and more.

From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. module-tokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Independent. House, electro: DJs Zombie Disco Squad, 80kidz, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo. com

The Room

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

Peruggia. DJ Sick and more. Jun 29, from 11pm, ¥1,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. rubyroomtokyo.com Forever the King of Pop. Disco, house: DJs Dimitri from Paris, Muro, etc. Jun 29, from 10pm, (m)¥3,500, (f)¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.visiontokyo.com

The Room

Spunky. Jazz, crossover: DJs Matsuoka, Niche, etc. Jun 29, from 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. theroom.jp

Unit

In Business. Funk DJs Jin, Kuroda, etc Live:: Reggaelation Independence. Jun 29, from 11pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo. com

Velours

W Fav. Rock: DJs Bassy, Tagawa, etc. Jun 29, from

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

Tani Buncho. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of a painter, poet and samurai. Jul 3-Aug 25, ¥800-1,300. Drinking Glass.

A rare collection of drinking vessels from all over the world.

Sep 11-Nov 11, ¥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.

Andreas Gursky. Germany's leading contemporary photographer. Jul 3-Sep 16, ¥600-1,500. Open Wed-Mon 10am-6pm, closed Tue. 7-22-2 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.nact.jp

GINZA/KYOBASHI/TOKYO Maison Hermes

The Ram in the Thicket.

Large-scale installations by Israeli artist Sigalit Landau.

Until Aug 18, free. 5-4-1 Ginza. Nearest stn: Ginza. Tel: 03-3569-3300. www.hermes. com

Megumi Ogita Gallery

Junmin+. Painting, photography and sculpture.

Jun 28-Jul 13, free. Tue-Sat 11am-7pm, Closed Mon & Sun. 4F, 5-4-14 Ginza. Nearest stn: Ginza. www.megumiogita.com

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.

Until Aug 4, ¥130-420.

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

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

Tokyo Station Gallery

Emile Claus and Belgian Impressionism. New impressionist paintings. Until Jul 5, ¥400-1,000. 11am-6pm, closed Mon. 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.ejrcf.or.jp/ english/

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS SHINJUKU/IKEBUKURO Photo Gallery Kitamura

Yume Fukei. Photography

by Yuji Mori. Until Jun 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.

Shinjuku Nikon Salon

HARAJUKU/AOYAMA

Days in my Hometown, Tochio. A sequel to Yoshitaka Kurashige's first exhibition, titled the same.

Jun 25-Jul 8, free. Open daily 10am-7pm. Tokyo L-Tower 28F, 1-6-1, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3344-0565. www.nikon-image.com/ activity/salon/index_en.htm

Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum

Sompo Japan Museum of Art

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.

SHIBUYA/EBISU Bunkamura: The Museum

Odilon Redon. Oil paintings, lithographs, prints. Until Jun 23, ¥600-1,000. Jeux Surréalisme. Mixed media. Jul 9-Aug 25, ¥500-1,000. Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 42F Sompo Japan Bldg, 1-26-1 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5405-8686. www.sompo-japan.co.jp/ museum

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

Book! Art! Book! Picture book art by Leo Lionni. Jun 22-Aug 2, ¥400-1,300. Open Mon-Thu & Sun 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-8pm. 2- 24-1 Dogenzaka.

Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3477-9111. www. bunkamura.co.jp

Tokyo Toy Museum

The Watari-Um Museum of Contemporary Art

UENO

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

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.toguri-museum.or.jp/ english

Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography

World Press Photo.

Winners of the premier international competition in photojournalism. Until Aug 4, ¥400-700. The Aesthetics of Photography - Five Elements.

The "science of sensibility" explored in the categories of luminous, reflection, surface, sense of loss and reference.

Until Jul 7, ¥250-500. 1968 - Japanese Photography.

Images of significant historic events as Japan transformed into its modern self. Until Jul 15, ¥400-600. Open Tue-Wed & Sat-Sun 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-13-3 Mita, Meguro-ku.

Nearest stn: Ebisu. syabi.com

Yamatane Museum of Art Kawai Gyokudo - Depicting Japan, Heart and Hearth.

A special 140th birthday exhibition. Until Aug 4, ¥800-1,000. Nihon no Furusato, Nihon no Kokoro.

A look into the daily life of Japanese people before technology took over.

Illustrations and paintings.

Until Aug 4, ¥800-1,200.

Open Tue-Fri 11am-5pm, closed Mon & hols. 3-12-36 Hiroo. Nearest stn: Ebisu.

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

Japan Native Toys Collection.

Until Sep 29, ¥500-700. Open Fri-Wed 10am-4pm. Closed Thu. Yotsuya Hiroba, 4-20 Yotsuya. Nearest stn: Yotsuya Sanchome. Tel: 03-5367-9601. www.goodtoy.org

Edo-Tokyo Museum

The Flowering of Edo Period Painting: Japanese Masterworks from the Feinberg Collection.

Bethesda, Maryland couple's 40-year collection of Japanese masterpieces. Until Jul 15, ¥650-1,300. Excavations of the Japanese Archipelago. Rare objects and fossils buried beneath Tokyo. Until Jul 25, ¥300-600. Open Tue-Fri & Sun 9:30am-5:30pm, Sat 9:30am7:30pm, closed Mon & hols.

1-4-1 Yokoami. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 03-3626-9974. www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp

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. 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

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

Ueno Royal Museum

Masterpieces of Arisugawa-nomiya Yukari Takamatsunomiya.

Rare and beautiful items that belonged to the Japanese imperial family. Until Jul 14, ¥600-1,000. Open Sat-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-8pm. 1-2 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.ueno-mori.org

OTHER AREAS Hakone Museum of Photography

Fuji-san. Photography by Katsura Endo. Fuji through the four seasons. Until Jul 15, ¥300-500. 10am-5pm, closed Tues (9am-9pm Sat from May to August). 1300-432 Goura Hakonemachi, Ashigarashimogun, Kanagawa.

Nearest stn: Gora. Tel: 046-022717. www.hmop.com

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: 03-34450651. www.haramuseum.or.jp

Hoki Museum

Feeling the Light and the Wind. Realist painting by Japanese artists. Until Nov 10, ¥750-1,500. Open Mon & Wed-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm, closed Tue. 3-15 Asumigaokahigashi, Midoriku. Nearest stn: Toke. www. hoki-museum.jp

Kido Press, Inc.

Takiguchi: Royal Blend.

Painting. Until Jul 6, free.

Tue-Sat noon-7pm. 1-3-2-6F Kiyosumi. Nearest stn: Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. www. kidopress.com

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

Francis Alÿs. Videos and photographs of a Belgian artist's social practice projects.

Until Sep 8, ¥600-1,100.

Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku.

Nearest stn: Kiyosumishirakawa. www.mot-artmuseum.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

Pacifico Yokohama

The Frozen Woolly Mammoth Yuka. New findings, including a full-size, genuine, mammoth in a freezer display case.

Jul 13-Sep 16, ¥900-2,200.

1-1-1 Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. www.pacifico. co.jp/english

Um

Art and Living: Takashimaya.

The department store as a trendsetter and major cultural influence. Until Jun 23, ¥500-1,000. Open Tue-Sun10am-6pm, closed Mon. 1-2 Kinuta-koen, Setagaya-ku. Nearest stn: Seijogakuenmae.

Tel: 03-3415-6011. www. setagayaartmuseum.or.jp/ index_e.html

Yokohama Museum of Art Masterpieces of French Paintings. Artworks on loan from the State Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow. Jul 6-Sep 16,

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS

EXHIBITION

RUGBY COURTESY OF THE CONTAINER

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

SOCCER J. League, Division 1

Adam & Eve NYC 2013 Photograph © Zevs

Zevs at The Container Tokyo’s most unusual exhibition space hosts the work of cutting-edge street artist Zevs. Starting in the mid-’90s, the young French artist made his international name by re-appropriating famous logos to criticize our rampant consumerism. Here, Zevs re-envisions German painter Lucas Cranach the Younger’s Renaissance work Adam and Eve in the context of NYC’s Apple Store. The Container, a literal shipping container in a hair salon, is curated by Israeli Shai Ohayon, who also brings Tokyo the unconventional Art Gig events.

The Container, until Jul 14, free. Mon–Fri 11am-9pm, Sat–Sun & hols 10am-8pm, closed Tue. Hills Daikanyama, 1-8-30 Kami-Meguro. Nearest stn: Naka-Meguro. www. the-container.com

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

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

FIGURE SKATING Dreams on Ice

Jun 28-Jun 30, 6:30pm, ¥6,000-20,000.

Shin-Yokohama Skate Center.

Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama.

Tel: 045-474-1112.

GOLF

Crossing: Between Cities and Deserts. A selection of movies, short films and media art. Jun 21-30, free. 1-1, Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa-ken.

Nearest stn: Minatomirai. www. yokohama-akarenga.jp

JLPGA

Zounohana Terrace

CAT Ladies Tourment

Japanese Suitcase. Clothes designed by Micha Deridder on display, and free for visitors to try on. Until Jun 23, free. 1 Kaigandori, Naka-ku. Nearest stn: Nihon O-dori. Tel: 045-6610602. www.zounohana.com

Sports BASEBALL 39th Japan vs. USA University Championships Jul 11, 6pm, ¥800-1,500.

Jingu Stadium. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. Tel: 0570-000777.

Mazda All-Star Game

Jul 20, 6pm, ¥3,000-22,000.

Jingu Stadium. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. Tel: 03-34048999. http://allstargame. npb.or.jp

Central League

Tokyo

Yakult Swallows vs.

Yokohama DeNA Baystars.

Jun 25-27, 6pm, ¥500-4,500.

Jingu Stadium. Nearest stn: Shinanomachi. Tel: 03-34048999 Yokohama

DeNA Baystars vs. Chunichi Dragons. Jun 28-30, 6pm, ¥800-5,500.

Yokohama Stadium. Nearest stn: Kannai. Tel: 04-5661-1251.

Pacific League

Lotte

Marines vs.

Nippon-Ham Fighters. Jun 21-22, 6:15pm, ¥1,800-¥4,800.

QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227 Seibu

Lions vs. Orix Buffaloes. Jun 21-22, 6pm, ¥1,800-¥4,800. Seibu Dome.

Nearest stn: Seibukyujomae.

Tel: 04-2925-1141.

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. Jun 28-30, 6:15pm, ¥800-4,800.

QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227.

Earth Mondahmin Cup. Jun 27-30, 7:20am, ¥4,00020,000. Camellia Hills Country Club, Otake. Nearest Station: Kisarazu. www. earth-mondahmin-cup.com Aug 23-25, all day, ¥2,000.

Dai-Hakone Country Club.

Nearest stn: Sounzan.

048-600-3001

KICKBOXING Nikudan Series

Jun 29, 5:30pm, ¥3,000-10,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

MMA VTJ 2nd

Jun 22, 4:30pm, ¥6,000-50,000 +1d. Tokyo Dome City Hall.

Nearest stn: Suidobashi.

Tel: 03-5800-9999. www. meetsport.jp/hall

MOTORCYCLE RACING MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series Round 4

Jun 29-Jun 30, 10am, ¥1,0005,500. Tsukuba Circuit.

Nearest stn: Furukawa. Tel: 0296-44-3146. www.jasc.or.jp

Tsukuba Road Race Championship Series Round 3

Jul 27, 9am, ¥1,000. Tsukuba Circuit. Nearest stn: Furukawa. Tel: 0296-44-3146. www.jasc.or.jp

PRO WRESTLING Big Japan

Jun 30, 6:30pm, ¥3,500-6,800.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

WWE Live

Featuring wrestlers John Cena, 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

Kizuna Road

Jul 5, 6:30pm, ¥3,000-7,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-5800-9999.

FC Tokyo vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Jul 6, 6:30pm, ¥500-6,000. Ajinomoto Stadium. Nearest stn: Tobitakyu. Tel: 03-3401-3290 Kawasaki

Frontale vs.

Kashima Antlers. Jul 6, 7pm, ¥800-4,500. Todoroki Stadium.

Nearest stn: Musashikosugi.

Tel: 03-3401-3290 Omiya

Ardija vs. Sagan Tosu. Jul 6, 7pm, ¥2,000-5,000.

NACK5 Stadium. Nearest stn: Kitaomiya. Tel: 03-3401-3290 Ventforet

Kofu vs. Urawa Reds. Jul 6, 6pm, ¥2,000-4,000.

National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3401-3290 Omiya

Ardija vs. Nagoya Grampus. Jul 10, 7pm, ¥2,000¥5,000. NACK5 Stadium.

Nearest stn: Kitaomiya. Tel: 03-3401-3290 Urawa

Reds vs. F.C. Tokyo.

Jul 10, 7:30pm, ¥2,000-¥4,500.

Saitama Stadium. Nearest stn: Urawamisono. Tel: 03-34013290

Festivals Paris-Sai

Outdoor family festival with music, film, food, and 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, performances and fireworks to mark the 160th anniversary of Perry reaching Japan's shores. Jul 13, 10am-8:10pm, free. Kurihama port and its environs. Nearest station: Kurihama. www.kurihama. info/perry

Yugawara Onsen Fireworks Festival

Two days of spectacular fireworks . Jul 15 & Aug 3, 8pm, free. Yugawara City. Nearest station: Yugawara. http:// meturl.com/yugawarafire

Kawasaki Wind-chime City

Over 30,000 wind-chimes of 900 different types from all over Japan and overseas on sale, Bon dance performances and more. Jul 17-21, all day, free. Kawasaki Daishi. Nearest station: Kawasaki Daishi. www.kawasakidaishi.com

Adachi Fireworks Festival

Over 12,000 fireworks easily visible from a wide range of locations around the river.

Jul 20, 7:30pm, free. Arakawa riverside. Nearest station: Kita-Senju. Tel: 03-3880-5853. http://meturl.com/ adachihanabi

Kamakura Fireworks Festival

Hachiman Yakumo Grand Festival

Party and Purpose

Traditional dances and mikoshi parades around the city. Jul 23, 10am, free.

Hachiman Yakumo Shrine.

Nearest stn: Hachioji.

Tel: 042-623-0720. www. hachiman-yakumo.or.jp

A casual get-together over dinner with people interested in personal development.

Every third Wed, 8pm, about ¥2,000, Ikebukuro TGI Friday's. Nearest station: Ikebukuro. http://meturl.com/ positivethinkerstokyo

Hachioji Fireworks Festival

Stitch-n-Bitch

Party in the park with a boom factor of 3,000. Jul 27, 7pm, free. Hachioji Shimin Baseball Stadium. Nearest station: Nishi-Hachioji. www.hachiojikankokyokai.or.jp

Forums & Expos MBA Open Campus

Japan’s No.1 MBA. Experience a free trial class at our upcoming Open Campus. Highly interactive and practical, see the GLOBIS difference for yourself! Start any term.

Next to Kojimachi Station, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo www.globis.ac.jp/events

FRI JUL 19, 7-9PM

Mynavi Global Career EXPO Summer

Job fair for global people. Jun 22-23, 11am-6pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. global. mynavi.jp

Tokyo Summer Career Forum

Job fair for J/E bilinguals. Jun 29-30, 10am-5pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-58045591. www.careerforum.net/ event

Comic City Tokyo 132

Fan art manga festival. Jun 30, 11am-3pm, ¥800. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. Tel: 03-32258520.

20th Tokyo International Book Fair

Publications inc. lifestyle, children's and science books.

Jul 3-6, 10am-6pm, ¥1,200 (door). Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon.

Tel: 03-3349-8519. www. bookfair.jp/en

Handmade in Japan Fes

Crafts, hobby goods, accessories and more. Jul 20-21, 11am-7pm, ¥500 (adv)/ ¥700 (door). Tokyo Big Sight.

Nearest stn: Kokusai-TenjijoSeimon. www.creema.jp/ hmj2013

Community Writers’ Bloc Tokyo Evening Musings 17: June Too Soon?

Celebrate life, the power of the spoken word, and share your work in a relaxed atmosphere.

Jun 30, 7:30pm, free. Jamrock Cafe. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www.facebook.com/ writersbloctokyo

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

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

Tokyo Street Hockey Association

Casual street-hockey group with regular meet-ups. Every 1st, 2nd and 3rd Fri, Various venues. Check website calendar for details. www. tokyohockey.com

Uncover the mysteries of that human emotion. Reservations required. Jun 30, 1pm, free (MAMC members)/ ¥2,000 (non-members).

Academy Hills. Nearest stn: Roppongi. http://meturl.com/ deepdarkness

TCS Improv Workshop

The Tokyo Comedy Store’s weekly improv workshop. All levels welcome. Real Dear, Mita. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban.

Tel: 03-5770-7401.

Other Events Warrior Dash

International mud obstacle race. Jun 22-23, from 8am, free (spectator) / ¥1,000 (festival)/ ¥8,000 (adventure run). Naeba Ski Resort. Nearest stn: Echigo Yuzawa. Tel: 03-4550-1199. www.warriordash.jp

Hello Kitty Alice Festival

Learning Candle & Acoustic Live

Tokyo Arts Week

Make your own bath salts by candlelight in the afternoon, followed by an acoustic set by Narcolepsy#2 from 7pm. Jun 21, 12-8pm, ¥500. Cona Sora Bakery & Cafe. Nearest stn: Shimokitazawa. Tel: 03-57909917. www.conasora.com

Yeats Day

Celebrate the legendary poet with talks, 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

A two-week long eclectic mix of theater, burlesque dance, music, comedy, a catered gallery night and two acting workshops featuring guest actors from NYC. Until Jun 30, various times, from ¥2,000.

Trance Mission Theatre.

Nearest stn: Sangubashi. Tel: neptunetheatreco@gmail. com. www.neptunetheatre.net

Tokyo Spring Cinema and Talk

Film screening of What Can We See through Nada's Sunglasses Today? followed by discussion. Jun 30, 3pm, free.

Cafe Lavanderia. Nearest stn: Shinjuku Sanchome. http:// tokyospring.blogspot.jp

Learn about the Pipe Organ

Tabihachi Fes

Wine and Chocolate Pairing with Art

Dance License

Interactive lecture for kids on what the pipe organ is and how to play it. Jun 22, 1:15-3pm, ¥500 (elem & up).

Saitama Arts Theater. Nearest stn: Yonohonmachi. Tel: 048-858-5506. www.saf.or.jp/ education/2013/m0622.html

Learn how to pair wine with chocolate from Godiva, while enjoying art in a relaxing atmosphere. Jun 22, 7:30pm, ¥3,980 (early bird) /¥4,980 (adv). Atsukobarouh Arts Drinks Talk. Nearest stn: Shibuya. pat_japan@hotmail. com. www.wineandcooking. info/en/specialevent.html

First Aid and CPR Certification Course

Primary and secondary care course comes with two-year certification. Jun 23, 9:30am-5:30pm, ¥14,700.

Minato-ku Labor and Welfare Hall. Nearest station: Tamachi. http://meturl.com/ tokygaijinfirstaid

Be the Change: Youth Can Change the World Today

Sunday Spin

Hula-hoop it up in Yoyogi, no need to bring your own. Drop in/out at any time. Every 4th Sun, Yoyogi Park. Nearest stn: Harajuku. Tel: 03-34696081. http://meturl.com/ hoopinginjapan

Faith Amano of Free the Children Japan will give a lecture on FTCJ's mission and activities, focusing on poverty and child labor.

Jun 26, 7pm, free. Lakeland College. Nearest stn: Shinjuku.

Tel: 03-3225-0425. http:// lcj.lakeland.edu/lakelandlectures

Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival

Pause Talk

Nihonga Workshop

Open forum where creatives can get together and discuss projects, ideas and cultural currents. Every first Mon, Cafe Pause. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro.

Tel: 03-6912-7711. www. pausetalk.org

Symposium about Love

Hello Kitty's Adventures in Puroland. Spring celebration.

Until Jun 30, 10am-5pm, ¥4,000. Sanrio Puroland.

Nearest stn: Odakyu Tama Center. Tel: 042-339-1111.

2,500 fireworks on the coastline of historic Kamakura. Jul 23, 7:20pm, free. Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beaches. Nearest station: Yuigahama or Wadazuka. www.kamakurainfo.jp

Riverside festival, 12,000 fireworks strong. Jul 23, 7:20pm, free. Edogawa Riverside. Nearest station: Shimabata. www.city. katsushika.lg.jp

Building, 5-49-7 Jingumae. shibuya-ku. Nearest station: Omotesando. nihongart@gmail. com. http://nihongart.blogspot.com

Uchiwa: two-day workshop in J/E on how to create a personalized fan using traditional painting techniques. Jun 26 & Jul 3, 11am-1pm, ¥7,000. Shikishi: Design your own shikishi board. July 13 & 20 1-4pm, ¥5,000. 4B Maruoka

Take a trip around the world inside Tokyo! Live performances, appearances by travel bloggers, writers and photographers, and enjoy Ethiopian and Peruvian cuisine. Jun 30, 2pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 +1d. Duo Music Exchange. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.tabi8.com Japan Street Dance Association certification event for all levels of hip-hop and jazz dancers. Guest judge, Sol from Big Bang.

Until Jul 15, all day, ¥5,350 (JSDA member)/ ¥ 7,895 (non-member). Avex Artist Academy. Nearest station: Harajuku. http://jsda.info

TV Animation 50th Anniversary

Anniversary exhibition of the studio of Astro Boy. Jul 15, 10am-6pm, free. Suginami Animation Museum. Nearest stn: Ogikubo. Tel: 03-33961510.

Department-H

Underground party hosted by drag queens. Every first Saturday night of every month.

BYOB. Mar 3-Dec 5, 12am, ¥3,000(dress code)/¥4,500 (w/ flyer)/ ¥5,000 (door). Tokyo Kinema Club. Nearest stn: Uguisudani. Tel: 03-3874-7988. department-h.com

Shibuhouse Party

All-night house party with the Shibuhouse residents on the 22nd of every month, 7pm-7am. ¥1,000 w/ food & drink. Contact shibuhouseinfo@gmail. com for address/directions.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. shibuhouse.com. Mar 22-Dec 22, Check website for details. www.shibuhouse.com

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 23

MOVIES

BY DON MORTON

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

Metpod

S

I AM BRUCE LEE

THE GREAT GATSBY

I’m a fan of Baz Luhrmann. I’m just not sure one of the 20th century’s leading A merican novels is the right material for the clearly overcaffeinated director’s amped-up, high-glitz, musically anachronistic, 3D s on g-a n d- d a nce t re at m e nt .

Ironically, the 3D seems to exist to make the speakeasy scenes pop, and the speakeasy scenes seem to have ben inserted to give the 3D something to do. Neither benefits the story at all. That said, the film lurches fairly faithfully through the classic story, and the acting’s tops.

And through all these exhausting distractions, it’s still a credible love story. (143 min)

e ve ra l do c u m e nt a r ie s h ave focused on Bruce Lee. This is another one. Such films as The Big Boss, Fist of Fury, Way of the Dragon, Enter the Dragon and Game of Death positioned the American-born Lee as the once and forever king of martial arts. But did you know that he was also once a successful child actor? How about a Cha Cha dancing champ? A Hong Kong bad-boy street fighter? A philosopher?

The doc was made by Pete McCormack, who made the intriguing Facing Ali, comprising interviews with Muhammad A li’s notable opponents . Here McCormack widens his interviewee net to include Lee’s widow, his daughter, a few friends, boxers and MMA fighters, as well as a few fairly absurd choices.

Like TV’s Ed O’Neill, the Black Eyed Peas’ Taboo, professional dancer Jose Ruiz III and some meathead UFC fighter.

Who cares? Mickey Rourke talks about himself. I liked the good writing and the spiffy editing, in which scenes from Lee’s movies complement what is being said, and the film’s general comprehensiveness. But I would have preferred a Facing Ali approach. Where was Chuck Norris, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, John Saxon? (94 min) SHOWING FROM JUN 22.

THE IMPOSSIBLE

Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts and their three kids (notably young Tom Holland) are in Thailand in 2004 when the Indian Ocean tsunami strikes. The story’s mostly true (the family was Spanish), and director Juan Antonio Bayona has fashioned from it an emotionally realistic, suspenseful tale of great strength and empathy. I liked his less-is-more approach to the SFX, which made them harrowingly believable. But the second half lags, and although it doesn’t entirely ignore the deaths of 300,000 people, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was boiling down the tragedy to the ordeal of one lucky family. (114 min)

eiga

he uber-hip director Kei Nakata is back with another stylish thriller. His 2009 effort Cool Girls was a political potboiler that garnered good reviews and established Nakata as an auteur on Japan's film scene. Non Metal Night ( Hikinzoku no Yoru), supposedly “ based on a true story” (more accurately: taking inspiration from a vaguely related incident), is equally chic and well shot, but with enough pop culture to keep the masses involved. Etched in evocative black and white tones, the flick manages to maintain both an otherworldly, ethereal air and a provocative realism. Set in a stark Shibuya after a major earthquake, we are introduced to Natsu (model Airi Tsukamoto in her first film role). The dejected twenty-something finds a gun in a bathroom stall and starts discharging it at random. This brings her a chinpira thug crowd and their usual endeavors. Both throwback noir and futuristic cyber-punk, this movie subtly draws the viewer in. (72 min) Rob Schwartz

CONTRABAND

The plot of this divertingly forgettable flick has been done to death: reformed smuggler (thief/assassin/ etc.) taking on one last job to save a screw-up friend or relative from s ome ve r y u g ly c r i m i n a l s . It ’s needlessly complex (there’s another, entirely separate, heist), rife with ludicrous coincidences, and seems to be driven solely by characters doing extremely stupid things. Mark Wahlberg can do this kind of thing in his sleep, Ben Foster’s his partner in crime, and Kate Beckinsale is underused. Giovanni Ribisi stands out as a wonderfully oleaginous New Awleans villain. Confession: I didn’t hate it. (110 min)

movie news

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EIGA: © NONMETAL NIGHT PARTNERSHIP; 21 & OVER: © RELATIVITY MEDIA; AFTER EARTH: NO CREDIT; I AM BRUCE LEE: I AM BRUCE LEE MOVIE CREDIT: © MMXII NETWORK FILMS TWO INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE GREAT GATSBY: © 2012 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE IMPOSSIBLE: ©2012 TELECINCO CINEMA, S.A.U. AND APACHES ENTERTAINMENT, S.L.; CONTRABAND: © 2012 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS.ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; SPRING BREAKERS: ©SPRING BREAKERS, LLC.; CHASING MAVERICKS: © 2012 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX FILM CORPORATION AND WALDEN MEDIA, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE BAYTOWN OUTLAWS: (C) 2012. BMP BAYTOWN DISCO, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

AFTER EARTH

A space -wa r r ior fat her a nd h is wh i ny, i r r i t a t i n g c a d e t s o n ( a charisma-free Will and a not-readyto - ca r r y-a-mov ie Jade n Sm it h ) crash-land on a toxic future Earth, and Jaden must make a perilous 100-km trek to retrieve a homing beacon. Along the way, he must deal with ferocious digitally mutated animals and risible plot contrivances, and do stuff like climb an erupting volcano. It ’s all laid on pretty thick, and ditto for the rancid sentimentality. Would-be auteur M. Night Shyamalan’s latest incompetent, plodding and obvious effort is a disaster on multiple levels. How bad?

Makes Oblivion look good. (100 min)

SPRING BREAKERS

It’s Girls Gone Wild gone wild! Disney princesses, even! Three shallow, de mon- s p aw n co e d s conv i nce their virtuous fourth roomie to come along to party in Florida .

But Where the Boys Are this ain’t.

U ber-pretentious enfant terrible Harmony “I meant to do that” Korine again confuses ugly with art. But James “he’s everywhere” Franco (not my favorite) is good as Alien, a cornrowed, gun-crazy gangsta deala who bails the quartet out of trouble only to lead them into worse. This fetish tool/fever dream is standard Korine fare: purient, self-important and mind-numbingly dull. With flashes of brilliance. (94 min)

IMAGE.NET

or many Hollywood actor-director teams, a “press tour of Japan” means running the gauntlet down a red carpet, a quick press conference, and then back to the airport.

Director Jon M .

Chu and actor Lee Byung-hun took it up a notch to promote G.I. Joe: Retaliation. In addition to Tokyo, the duo hit Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka. Chu was eager to have fans in Japan enjoy his first action film, having previously directed dance and concert films. “It’s great to be back,” said Lee, whose popularity in Japan is soaring. The Korean star made his Hollywood debut playing opposite Channing Tatum in the first G.I. Joe film in 2009. Now he is reprising his role as the expert assassin Storm Shadow in the sequel. This time, Lee had the opportunity to work with Bruce Willis. “The way he delivers his lines is so natural. It’s just like everyday conversation,” Lee recalled during his stay in Japan. “I’m trying to get used to American culture and ways of showing emotion.” His efforts seem to be paying off. Lee is one of only two Korean actors to be immortalized in the concrete outside the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. And working with Bruce Willis has already led to another gig. Lee has been tapped for a role in the upcoming sequel of Willis’ Red. G.I. Joe: Retaliation is screening nationwide. Kevin Mcgue

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

21 & OVER

This cliché-ridden ode to collegiate irresponsibility, selfishness and stupidity is for people who considered The Hangover too mature. A graduating college senior is visited by his two best high school friends on the eve of his med school interview, to take him out for “one beer.” Things get out of hand. Ho hum. Note to filmmakers: dumb doesn’t automatically mean funny, and this is more exhausting than funny anyway.

Drunk driving, binge drinking, gun violence, slo-mo projectile vomiting, a cavalier attitude toward suicide and borderline sex crimes, slurs against Latinas, Serbs, and Jews. Miss it twice. (95 min)

THE BAYTOWN OUTLAWS

Jeez, where to start? This pop-culture hick-sploitation patchwork, this pointlessly ultra-violent NRA wet dream, this grindhouse retread, is one disgusting movie. The three fiercely amoral, radically redneck and heavily armed Oodie brothers help the sheriff keep his crime rate low by, well, shooting undesirables in the face. Then Eva Longoria asks them to retrieve her disabled godson from ex-hubby Billy Bob Thornton, and they three end up being chased, in turn, by hooker biker assassins, armored African-American Mad Maxers, and vicious Native American commandoes. You get the idea, y’all. (98 min)

cinematic underground

© 2012 KIM KI-DUK FILM ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

P

ieta (pictured), the latest work by enfant terrible of Korean cinema Kim Ki-duk, is currently screening at Bunkamura’s Le Cinema (2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku; (www.bunkamura.co.jp). Kim mixes Christian symbolism with sexual content to tell the story of a heartless loan shark thug who feels compelled to change his brutal ways when he encounters a woman claiming to be his long-lost mother…It’s not over till the fat king sings, as the Opéra National de Paris continues its series of live opera broadcasts with Verdi’s Falstaff from June 28th at Le Cinema and Toho Cinemas Roppongi Hills (6-10-2 Roppongi Minato-ku; www. tohotheater.jp)... The program “Special Effects Museum” running through August 2 at I Jimbocho Theater (1-23 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku; http://jinbocho-theater.jp) presents 16 Japanese films from the ‘50s and ‘60s featuring invisible men, aliens and giant flying turtles…In case you missed the spring’s big releases the first time around, second-run house Waseda Shochiku (1-5-16 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku; (www.wasedashochiku.co.jp) is screening Django Unchained paired with Tarantino’s Kill Bill Vol. 1 from June 22 and Cloud Atlas along with Life of Pi from June 29. KM

BITES

THE LATEST DISH ON FOOD & DRINK IN THE BIG CITY

Dining Out

ice wine

W

hy separate the epicurean pleasures of life?

Posh sweets shop and winery Châteraisé has created a new wine sherbert ice cream using a cask vintage from their Belle Foret vineyard in Yamanashi Prefecture. Order some in to wow guests if you’re planning a fancy soirée. Just remove the price tag first—¥420 is a low-end figure for a high-end party ingredient. Comes in red (Cabernet Sauvignon) and white (Chardonnay) flavors, and an alcohol content of just 2.4% means icing and driving should probably be okay (don’t quote us on that). Available from June 28 in Châteraisé shops nationwide or online. Also see the website for details of a tour of their Yamanashi factory. www.chateraise.co.jp

fair

COURTESY OF CHÂTERAISÉ

F

COURTESY OF DOGGY’S DINER

cause

T

ancy dining company Simplicity is celebrating its 15th anniversary with an orgiastic four-part food fair. The second installment of Food Nippon 2013 runs from July 1-13 and its theme is the cuisine of Iki, an island off Nagasaki. Try the tender Iki beef, which comes from cows that graze on mineral-rich grass and some that scoff seaweed powder.

Also taste the local shochu, oval squid, sea urchin and island veggies. Hasami-yaki pottery from the region will be on display and on sale. Reserve for the set lunch (¥3,800) or dinner (¥7,800), hosted at fancy resto Higashiyama Tokyo (1-21-25 Higashiyama, Meguro-ku; 03-5720-1300; nearest stn: Nakameguro; http://higashiyama-tokyo.jp).

hose who have dined in university or work cafeterias probably know Table for Two, a Japanese NGO that funnels a portion of profits into healthy school meals for children in poor parts of the world. Now T4T is teaming up with everyone’s favorite minimalist lifestyle design company, Muji.

At any Café & Meal Muji around the city, certain menu items have been raised in price ever so slightly to fund the cause. That includes the three-item deli plate, now ¥800 instead of ¥780, plus deli plates with more items, the soup plate, and more. Muji’s selection is already famed among OLs for its healthiness and decent prices.

With Table for Two x Muji, it can only get more wholesome. www.muji.net/cafemeal

celeb

I diner

T

he comically named Doggy’s Diner (3-10-13 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku; nearest stn: Omotesando; www.doggysdiner.jp) purports to offer true-blue American diner fare—with a healthy twist. Yet the menu offers up some things about as far removed from US soil as Guantanamo. Still, a demiglace sauce that takes a full five weeks to produce has got to be worth trying, as are their completely made-from-scratch sausages. But what most gets us excited is their extraordinary creation, the “Macaron Burger” (¥500)—so special it has its own website (http://macaron-burger.com). It consists of four miniburgers each served with its own spoonful of sauce.

Other all-American dishes include chili-cheese fries and Buffalo wings, though you can also get Italian and Okinawan food because… um...

n the latest mutation of celebrity culture, bassist Jun Utahiroba from booming band Golden Bomber (not a sordid sexual practice) has launched the Autumn Leaf Café (1F Kanda Eight Bldg, 4-6-7 Kanda, Chiyodaku; nearest stn: Akihabara; http://autumn-leaf.jp) for fans in the otaku haven of Akihabara. Though “Jun Jun” himself is unlikely to be there, he (or his PR company) has deputized legions of butler-clad ikemen to fulfill your every caprice. As long as your caprices extend to fruit plates (¥2,000), fruit parfaits (from ¥880), and multicolored fruit smoothies (from ¥520). Naturally, a celebrity fruit café is irresistible; leading to a cap on entrants to 30 pairs of visitors per day. Book your slot in advance online and pay a non-refundable deposit of ¥1,000 to count against your fruit consumption.

app

L

ife is getting ever more bite-sized, thanks to Twitter’s noble precedent. Now, Choi Repi allows you to bite on Japanese cuisine tips in 140-character chunks. “Choi” comes from short time, and “repi” from recipe, meaning you’re essentially getting a usergenerated cookbook for the smartphone generation.

Those worried about their Japanese could view it as a language-learning tool, with the concise format leading to more digestible information—and more digestible dishes, too. Save your faves, search by ingredient or food style, etc, comment (oishikatta desu for starters)— and submit your own if you feel up to it. Non-phoners can follow via Twitter @choirepi.jp. Free. Available from iTunes or http://choirepi.jp.

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 25

Shibuya 1st Floor Standing Bar Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays

Dancers’ Showtime 8pm~ & 10pm~

Free Drink!

Mention Metropolis to receive a complimentary Jim Bean

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

SAMURAI CAFE

109 Dogenzaka 7 Eleven

Hachiko Shibuya Stn 246

Spacious 5F terrace over looking central Shibuya!

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

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

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

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

7/1-5 P.C.M PRESENTS “CRAFT BEER WEEK” 7/1-4 FEAT. DJ LAVA EACH NIGHT FROM 7PM 7/5 (FRI) CRAFT BEER CARNIVAL FEAT. SAMBA DANCERS AND SPECIAL GUEST! From July 1, we present Special Craft Beer “Swan Lake”, to begin a new chapter for our bar! Enjoy our several new kinds of draft beer along with our regular 5.

Let’s Kanpai with DJ Lava, Samba Dancers, and our special guest!

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

THE LATEST DISH ON FOOD & DRINK IN THE BIG CITY

bar review

CAIPIRINHA BAR

Mixing up Brazil’s national cocktail in Roppongi text and photo by Jeff W. Richards

T

he caipirinha is a simple drink. Brazil’s answer to the mojito—minus the mint and using distilled sugarcane liquor, cachaça, instead of rum—is a strong, icy-cool libation perfect for sipping when the heat and humidity of the Tokyo summer closes in. And Caipirinha Bar in Roppongi has more than 30 unique variations of the drink ready to slake your thirst.

This welcoming B1 bar below the mean streets of Roppongi has more caipirinha varieties than it does seats, but it’s fast become a hangout for the Brazilian community and enlightened Japanese and foreigners since opening in March. Though you'll need to walk the gauntlet of touts that loiter just this side of Roppongi Crossing, once inside this cozy and inviting space, it all seems miles away.

We started with an original caipirinha (¥1,200)—fresh lime, lemon and sugar muddled with cachaça and poured over crushed ice—and

restaurant review

BÉPOCAH

A new menu to Peru-se in Harajuku

By Roberto De Vido

I

f you’ve never said, “Let’s go out for Peruvian!”—it’s probably because you’ve never tried it. One of the newest addit ions to Tok yo’s restaurant scene, Bépocah in Harajuku, can give you a taste.

We started with pisco sours, the classic Peruvian cocktail made with grape brandy (plus egg white, lime juice, simple syrup, and bitters), and Peruv ian beer (Cusqueña)—and very quickly the cebiche (also ceviche) arrived.

Some bel ieve cebiche was invented in Peru. And Bépocah dedicates a full page of its menu to the dish. We ordered the cebiche tradicional de pescado—a traditional fish cebiche, for the non-Spanish speakers. The preparation is simple: marinate the raw fish in lime, and add chopped hot pepper (aji limo,

settled in. The deep blue and green walls, white counters and light yellow tiles evoke the four colors of Brazil’s flag, while the soft brown chairs and potted palms give an added jungle element. Keeping with our tropical rainforest theme, we ordered a cupuaçu caipirinha (¥1,300). The pulp of the fragrant South American fruit (related to the cacao), tasted vaguely pear-like, though we also noted shades of banana and pineapple—and even a hint of chocolate. With more fruit and less sugar, it pleased all around.

St ick i ng w it h t he sa me reg ion we tried an açai berry caipirinha (¥1,500) that tasted more like a fruit smoothie—though slightly bitter and with a substantial texture created from the dark violet flesh of the freshblended berries.

We strayed from the eponymous cocktail with the Napolitana (¥1,500),

in this case) and cilantro. Ours was garnished with large-kernel Andean white corn, which was delicious and surprisingly unsweet.

Not all of Peru’s reported 4,000 varieties of potato are on offer at Bépocah (though they do import a handful of native Peruvian potatoes not available at your local supermarket), but you can get the idea with papa a la Huancaína, or Huancayostyle potatoes. This is a simple and tasty salad of boiled yellow potatoes with a sticky sauce of feta cheese, milk and aji amarillo (yellow hot pepper).

St a r ter s out of t he w ay, we ordered a creamy chicken stew—aji de gallina—made with cheese, milk and pecan nuts, and lomo saltado, stir-fried sirloin stea k w it h red onions, tomatoes, aji amarillo and cilantro.

Everything to that point had been delic iou s—si mple a nd f l a v or f u l— a nd w e were starting to think we were full. Then, the next table took a plate of what looked

Dining Out

which manager Hiroshi told us was in fact inspired by the pizza. Eschewi ng c ac h aç a for a basi l-i n f used vodka, lemon, tomato, g rated cheese and salt, this morningfriendly drink was much like a Bloody Mary— including being slightly bland. A little Tabasco fixed that. Sill looking for something spicy, we ordered the wasabi version (¥1,300) if just to satisfy our curiosity.

While it didn’t make our eyes water (the way we like it), it was suitably dry, like a vodka and soda with a little kick.

The bar filled steadily with many ordering finger food as well as draft and bottled beer (¥1,000). We were informed that the private VIP room at the end of the bar also came with karaoke, champagne and included a top-shelf menu featuring upscale brands of cachaça and food service.

Live sports events are broadcast on the bar’s four large TVs—with mostly Brazilian staff and Japanese customers, this is all about football.

But most nights it’s Latin pop and dance music that rumbles out of the

deep—but not overpowering—sound system. On weeknights from 8-10pm they offer a happy hour of half-price drinks including their centerpiece cocktails and various variations, like the vodka-based caipiroska and the Japanese remix—the saquerihna (both ¥1,200).

While we couldn’t try all the varieties (mango, coconut, banana and chocolate, yuzu, ginger mint, and more), we did our best. Then, like the fighters in the capoeira photos on the wall, we danced out of there a little punch drunk, but determined to finish the job next time.

like enormous beef yakitori. It was beef, as it turned out—but not steak.

Our neighbors had ordered anticuchos de corazón, or beef heart. It would have been heartless for us not to order some—and the delicious aroma was indeed matched by the taste.

On the dessert score, a few fruit dishes looked interesting: an aguaymanto sorbet and a lucuma ice cream. Aguaymanto is an orangeyellow gooseberry encased in what appears to be a paper lantern, and lucuma is called “eggfruit” in English, and resembles a small papaya.

A short walk from Meiji-Jingu mae stat ion, Bépoca h opened

its doors this past March. Founders Bruno Nakandari and Haruko Nishimura are friends who abandoned careers in sof t ware development and advertising to pursue their dream of opening a place that “feels like a Peruvian restaurant in Lima, not an ‘ethnic’ restaurant that caters to cultural stereotypes.”

Accordingly, the decor is elegant and understated—with not a stuffed llama to be seen.

J/E Menu in Japanese & English

No nonsmoking seats

Cocktails from ¥1,200

Counter to soak up the vibe, VIP room for groups

Amazing variety of signature cocktail, half-price happy hour

Small bar fills up fast, can get smoky

B1 Roppongi Park Bldg, 3-10-4 Minato-ku Tel: 03 5775-6783.

Nearest stn: Roppongi

Open Mon-Sat 8pm-8am, closed Sun

www.caipirinhabar.jp

J/E/S

English/Japanese/Spanish

Completely nonsmoking

Dinner from ¥5,000~ (per person with drinks)

Dine upstairs or park at the bar

Comfortably elegant, authentic cuisine

Might be pricey for some

2-17-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-6804-1377 Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae

Open Mon-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat 5pm-5am, closed Sun

www.facebook.com/bepocah

#1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 27

The majority of classified ads have moved online!

NOTE: PRINTED CLASSIFIEDS!

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.

1.3 MOVING

1 AT YOUR SERVICE 1.1 HEALTH

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 ility 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, bilingual, 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 D E N T I S T. G e n e r a l a n d 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 accepted. 5min walk from JR Tamachi stn.

Open Mon-Sat. 03-5442-8525 www.shibaura-dental.com/

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

NAIL SALON IROHA: NAIL TATTOOS IN ASAKUSA. Put Japanese kanji and beautiful art on your nails with gel nails.

You can use any kanji, even your name, your country, or any words you’d like. Call Iroha at 03-6802-8383 or email iroha_nail@yahoo.co.jp. www.facebook.com/#!/iroha. nail.page

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 HOLLYWOOD AND BRAZILIAN WAX OPENING SALE, 30% OFF. Gonee beauty salon provides beauty treatments at Ebisu-Minami, To k y o a n d L o n d o n . W a x i n g , eyelash treatments, facials, body s lim min g! Em ail : treatm e nt@ goneebeauty.com 03-6452-2503 www.goneebeauty.com

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 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

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

LAW OFFICE IN KAWASAKI (next to Tokyo), member o f t h e Yo ko h a m a B a r Association. Legal service in English for traffic accidents, divorce, inheritance, bankruptcy, business cases (contracts, establishing a company,trademarks, etc.) and other legal problems.

Email: web@smkw.biz http://www.sumikawa.net/

1.8 GENERAL SERVICES

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.

classifieds.metropolis.co.jp

Issue 1006 Issue 1008 FRI, JULY 5

FRI, JULY 19

Deadline:

Deadline:

June 27, 3pm

July 11, 3pm

safe residential area, good n e ig h b o r s ¥ 120,0 0 0. N o key money, commission or maintenance fee. One month refundable deposit only.

Te l / f a x : 0 3 - 3 3 4 1 -7 8 7 5 itto@itto-jinnai.com www.itto-jinnai.com/green/ greencorp.html

Please call 0120-957-520. www.tokyoapartments.jp

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

2.7 OFFICE SPACE 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. 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

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000 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

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

I C H I G AYA G R E E N C O R P. Fu r n i s h e d t h r e e - r o o m , 40m2 apartment, south/ north facing, many trees, just renovated, sunny room, fresh air, peaceful,

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

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE

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 and English. I am seeking an E/Chn exchange in Meguro-ku or Shibuya-ku. My Chinese level is preintermediate. I am a British male, and can help you with E. galloway. james82@gmail.com

2.3 RENT OVER ¥200,000

English and Japanese. Japanese female seeks E/J language exchange partner and friends in the Tokyo/ Yokohama area. hana213@hotmail.com English and Japanese. JF, mid30s, seeking a language exchange partner. I'm available after work on weekdays or on weekend afternoons in Yokohama or Yokosuka. Please mail me! mkt12_17@hotmail.co.jp

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 .

English and Japanese. I'm seeking a language exchange partner, preferably an American, 26-38, in or near Ichikawa City. I'm a JF translator, 35. gk24vbn8@ gmail.com English and Japanese. English male, 30s, friendly, humorous, seeks language exchange in Tokyo or Kanagawa. I live on the Denentoshi/ Odakyu lines. Tokyo is ok. Photo necessary. mh.phil@yahoo.co.uk

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.

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

English and Japanese. Hi! I am a native English speaker, 26, living in Tokyo, seeking a Japanese person to help me with my Japanese in the Jiyugaoka, Nakameguro or FutakoTamagawa area. r_andom@hotmail. com English and Japanese. American male seeking friends to meet in free time. Could help you to be fluent in E. baralaora38@yahoo.com 03-34556797 English and Japanese. Group language exchange every Wed, 7:309:30pm, at coffee shops around Ginza.

Most members are 20s and 30s. We switch languages every 30min. Fun events on weekends. Free to join. ando. andy@gmail.com English and Japanese. Japanese female, 27, living and working in central Tokyo. Prefer around the same age, in central Tokyo, on weekends. Serious only. hotcake31@hotmail.co.jp Filipino and Japanese. Filipino language speaker wanted by Japanese guy for exchange via Skype or at cafes in Yokohama or Yokosuka. I'm a complete beginner. I can speak advanced E and intermediate Sp. elsalvadorjapan@yahoo.es French, Russian, English, Spanish, Japanese. Hello, I'm a Japanese man, 20s, living in Tokyo, seeking someone who I can practice E, Fr, Sp, Rus with.

I'd be glad to help you improve your Japanese. Please feel free to contact me. zeno77dst@hotmail.com French, Russian, Japanese.

Japanese professional male, early 30s, seeks a Fr or Rus language exchange partner in the Minato-ku or Chiyoda-ku area. I can teach you J in return. Serious only. cobaltgrapefruit@gmail.com 090-1841-8463 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 Spanish and Japanese. Japanese female seeks Mexican female for language and cultural exchange in Tokyo. Vamos a conversar e intercambiar idioma. Solo mujeres. asa_yu2004@yahoo.co.jp

3.9 TEACH ME! English tutor sought for my daughter at cafes around Ginza. Requirements: American, high Japanese linguistic ab ilit y. ¥ 1 5 0 0/h . N e g otiab l e . megustalachan@yahoo.co.jp French lesson. SJF is seeking a native speaker, M/F ok, for French lessons on weekends or after work.

Prefer midtown park. College student welcome. Will pay lesson fee as arranged. tokyomiffy@gmail.com Hungarian teacher sought for preferably weekday lessons during the day in central Tokyo. I can go to you, cafe lesson, Skype, etc. gewatson@ gmail.com 08056842220 Salsa/bachata for English or Portuguese. I can help improve your English or Portuguese if you can help me improve my bachata. I can do the very basics, but I really want to get better. Let's help each other. karlosbenz@yahoo.com Seeking English tutor. Preparing to study in the States. I need good English ability now! Lessons at a cafe once/ week ¥1500-¥2000/h. Negotiable.

Prefer J/E bilingual. American, British or Canadian only. quegatabonita@ yahoo.co.jp

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Armoire, two-door, white, two y/o, in excellent condition ¥2000/obo. Bed,

Ikea, two y/o, full-sized, w/mattress, storage underneath ¥5000. Near Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and Kikukawa stn. agnes.theilen@gmail.com Bed, Nitori, queen-sized (142x200cm), w/mattress ¥5500. Pick up Kawasaki stn area June 28. dinesh1979@gmail. com 080-3247-0128 Closet, white (60x177x30cm), w/ sliding glass doors ¥2000. Pick up Shimokitazawa. aminimia@yahoo.com Fridge, Haier, '11 model, 168L, in great condition ¥15,000. Will pay delivery. mvgtonihon@gmail.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! Sofa, center table, dining set, shelves, crib, chest, etc., most items 1.5 y/o, in excellent condition. Pick up near Oji stn, JR Keihin-Tohoku line. isaac.borras@ gmail.com 080-4117-7339 Sofa, Stylist, L-shaped, large ¥4000. dinesh1979@gmail.com 080-3247-0128 Sofa, Natuzzi, leather, seats three, not suitable for small apartment ¥20,000. john.evans@pgs.com 09098166279 Stand, hat, from Loft (H160cm), in excellent condition, less than one y/o ¥2000. Pick up Shintomicho/ Hatchobori area. luci@gol.com Table, natural wood, for outside ( 70x70x70 c m ), w/t wo c h a ir s (54x84x43cm), 20kg total, brand new, still in box ¥6000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@gol.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) ¥12,000. Pick up Shintomicho/Hatchobori area. luci@ gol.com Table, dining (W145xD80xH70cm), w/ two chairs, one y/o ¥5000. Pick up only Azabu-Juban. krishin_asnani@yahoo. com 08020352916 Vanity, one y/o ¥4000. Pick up Kawasaki June 28. dinesh1979@gmail. com 080-3247-0128

4.2 APPLIANCES Appliance sale! Washer, fridge, rice cookers, vacuum, juicer, microwave, etc., in excellent condition. Pick up near Oji stn, JR Keihin-Tohoku line. isaac. borras@gmail.com 080-4117-7339 Food slicer, Turmix, 220V, slices meat and other food, w/transformer (L34xW27xH23cm; knife diameter 17cm), 5kg, w/sledge on sliding table.

Best offer. hapyou@yahoo.com 0356207351 Fridge, Sharp, large (W68.2cm), 450L, five-door, w/ice maker, very clean, works well ¥17,000. Washer ¥6000.

Fan ¥3000. Vacuum ¥4000. get. it.from.me.now@gmail.com Fryer, small, in good condition ¥1000. mizi2005@hotmail.com Hairdryer, Koizumi KHD-1236, w/ Turbo and ion function, in good condition ¥1500. mizi2005@hotmail. com Kettle, in good, clean condition ¥1400.

Kettle and delivery ¥1800. mizi2005@ hotmail.com Microwave/oven/toa ster/grill , Panasonic NE-KM263, bought Mar '11, w/defrosting function. New ¥32,000.

Sell ¥18,000. Pick up only. sayonara_ sale88@yahoo.com Rice cooker, Zujirushi, '10, as new ¥7000. Free delivery. mizi2005@ hotmail.com Washer/dryer, Sharp ES-TG81G, ecofriendly ¥25,000/obo. james_tandon@ yahoo.com 090-4821-7602

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Suits, stylish, 40+ available, for smallish adult; neverworn fashionable clothes; accessories; classic handmade kimonos; artifacts

from the Showa Era; sofas; fridge; mint-condition Japanese CDs; powerful speakers; various other furnishings. By appointment in Mejiro. successinjapan@gmail.com 090-7704-8687 Sayonara sale! Leather sofa, fridge, microwave, dishes, wardrobe, computers, desks, filing cabinet, backpacks, bookcase. Make an offer. milowright@ymail.com Sayonara sale! Entryway cabinet, dining room table, bed, etc. Pick up Minami-Azabu. Details, photos available. tomomik1@yahoo.com

4.4 TV & HOME THEATER C a b l e b o x a n d r e c o r d e r, Panasonic TZ-DCH2800, 2-in-1 box and HD recorder. Make an offer.

Shinagawa-ku. Photos available. 18th. vow@gmail.com Plasma TV 26", Sharp Aquos 2LC-26DX1, white, w/built-in Blu-ray player (650x241x532mm), 14.5kg ¥29,000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@gol.com Plasma TV, Pana sonic Vie ra TH-42PZ80, full HD 1080p, in excellent condition, guarantee until Dec '13 ¥42,000. Pick up Kawagoe or pay delivery. valleysfield@gmail.com

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS 5.1 CAMERAS Digital camera, Canon, five megapixel ¥6000. milowright@ymail. com SD card 32GB, Sandisk Extreme, new.

New ¥3500. Sell ¥2500. Can deliver or meet in Tokyo. jfftokyo@mac.com 090-9840-9950

5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT Pack, waist, main compartment (20x20x10cm), two zippered mesh hip belt pockets, bottom straps ¥1000. Pick up Yokohama. sayonara_vancouver@ hotmail.com Racket, tennis, Bridgestone SNIPE3, never used, still in carry bag, w/carry bag. New ¥15,000. Make an offer.

Shinagawa-ku. Photos available. 18th. vow@gmail.com Tent, Croster GV54, for 3-4 people, about 5kg, used twice, a bit stained ¥2000. haphea@yahoo.com

5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT Acou stic guitar, Ta k a m i n e , excellent tone and tuning, as new ¥18,000. futuredrive2@yahoo.com 08037377662 Bass, Music Man StingRay 5, limited edition, '06, made in USA, black, gold hardware, in excellent condition, w/ hard case ¥120,000. Pick up KitaSenju. kentmacleod@gmail.com 08088111045 Guitar, Samick, classical, great sound, in excellent condition, w/case ¥9000. lovelighttokyo@yahoo.co.jp

5.5 GAMING Car, radio-controlled, gas-powered engine, two-gear, runs over 60mph, 1/8th scale racing car, w/lots of equipment. New ¥400,000. Sell ¥35,000. milowright@ymail.com Drone, Parrrot AR Drone 2.0, screwdriver kit, extra battery, used once. New ¥36,000. Sell ¥20,000. Pick up central Tokyo. pj@trouarat.com

5.6 COLLECTORS Aboriginal painting, original (18x12cm), acrylic on canvas, certified painting by Australian Dunghutti Tribe artist ¥4000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@gol.com 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 ¥28,000. luci@ gol.com #1004 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 29

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

Staffed by experienced ophthalmologists, we offer not only LASIK, but the examination and treatment of eye diseases.

Japanese Health Insurance Supported

4F Renai Aoyama Building, 3-3-11 Kita Aoyama, Minato-ku Tokyo 107-0061

For your clearer vision call 03-5772-1451

JOBS 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.

MODEL WANTED! Photographer is seeking nude art models for art project.

Privacy is 100% respected! If interested, please email strikeapose@nifty.com.

Serious only. Willing to offer attractive modeling fee.

OPERATIONS OFFICER. Olvea is an exciting place to launch your career.

The world’s largest multinational corporations look to our talent to help them tackle their most pressing busine s s is sue s . You’ll have an opportunity to make your mark right here. timbensonolvea@gmail.com Olvea.org +12136071595 TRANSPORTER TOKYO is seeking full-time moving and sales staff.

Requirements: valid visa (e.g., spouse visa, permanent residency), speak English and Japanese, Japanese driver’s license. Salary: ¥250,000 (first three months), then ¥280,000, plus commission. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an interview. info@transporter-tokyo. com 03-6715-9391

To advertise: commercial@metropolis.co.jp

03-4550-2291

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 B A R S P E A K E A SY s e e k s a n e w manager. Send your CV and tell us the type of visa you have now. 大塚のBar SPEAKEASYでは新店長を募集しています。年齢 経験は不問、英語かフランス語は必須。yosuke. suzuki@tokyostay.co.jp まで。 info@ tokyostay.co.jp 03-5980-9621 SALES & MARKETING POSITIONS. Metropolis is seeking motivated, bilingual (E/J) sales executives and support staff to join the most successful English-language advertising and marketing team in Japan. Experience preferred, but not required. Base salary and attractive commissions. Send your resume, in both English and Japanese, to jobs@metropolis.co.jp. More info online: http://metropolis.co.jp/jobs/ SALES INTERN. Metropolis is seeking a bilingual (E/J) intern to join its Restaurants & Bars advertising team.

No pay, but transportation provided.

Please fax your resume (E/J) to 03-4588-2278 or email knakashima@ metropolis.co.jp.

Chess set, Mongolian (Shatar), on felt board, as new, w/all pieces and carry case ¥1000. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@gol.com

7 GENERAL 7.1 PHONES iPhone 3GS, i n e xc e l l e n t condition, not jailbroken ¥10,000. lovelighttokyo@yahoo.co.jp

5.7 PETS Kittens seeking loving forever and foster homes! Make a difference, make a friend for life! Registered NGO. adopt@japancatnet.com http:// japancatnet.com/ Tonkinese purebred, loving and lovable, de-clawed, neutered, male, w/papers, seeking home with garden or safe outside area. Photos available. rtn3590@hotmail.com 090-6479-1942

6 VEHICLES

Room 806 - Roppongi Hair Salon, Fades, Relaxers & Braids

6.1 CARS, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES

Tel: 03-5545-4325

4/You 2 - Hiroo Tel:03-3443-2279

Relaxers, Shellack gel, Waxing & Fades Tel/Fax 046-826-2218

www.theroom806.com since 1998

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

6.2 MOTORBIKES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES H O N DA S CO OTER , 110 c c , ' 0 5 , 28,000km, w/two helmets ¥35,000.

Firm. Pick up Harajuku. saadia_ guettai@yahoo.fr

Massage & Waxing (ladies only)

Sakura Total Beauty Salon - Yokosuka

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

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

VTR 1000 FIRESTORM, '98 model, 40,000km, Termignoni carbon f ib e r pip e s , we ll - m aintain e d , runs/sounds great, w/receipts, helmet, rear rack, bag ¥200,000.

Call 090-7234-5620. robkeay@ bloomberg.net

6.3 BICYCLES, PARTS, & ACCESSORIES Bike, large, three gears, new tires, in excellent condition, w/brand new tire pump ¥8000. Details available. kiyokawa9773@gmail.com

iPhone 4 32GB, white, in good condition, no scratches, used one year, SoftBank, no charger, no box ¥12,000. sasapandacyan@mail.goo.ne.jp Smartphone, Panasonic P-07C, white, as new, hardly used ¥15,000. mizi2005@hotmail.com

7.2 FASHION Bags, clutch, three available, made of silk kimono fabric, w/bronze snap handles ¥2500/all. ¥1000/each. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@ gol.com Pants, chef, ten pairs available, waist of 110, black, blue, gray, charcoal, checkered, 100% cotton ¥3000/pair. imap2223@yahoo.com Shoes, Puma Easy Rider 78, dark denim blue and yellow, size 30cm/ UK 11/US 12/EUR 46, still in box ¥4000. Shinagawa, Azabu, Hiroo, Omotesando. stringbean71@hotmail. com

7.3 MISCELLANEOUS Picnic blankets, two available, one red (140x115cm), one blue/white (138x90cm), waterproof (plasticlined base), very lightweight, fold into convenient carry pouches ¥1000/ each. Pick up Shintomicho, Yurakucho line. luci@gol.com

Suitcase, Samsonite, black, carry-on size (41x23x36cm; fully extended handle height: 105cm), brand new, ¥3000. Pick up Shintomicho/ Hatchobori area. luci@gol.com Suitcase, P o l o , s o f t , b l a c k (L79xW47xD30cm), expandable, four large wheels, built-in lock, as new. Pick up only. vedi_rosh@yahoo.com

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE Film, zero-bubble, anti-fingerprint, for iPad 2, five available ¥600/each. mizi2005@hotmail.com http://www2. elecom.co.jp/slate-pc/protection-seal/ tb-a11mflb/ Laptop, Dell E6400, 2.6GHz Core 2 Duo P8700, 8GB, 250GB HD, 7200RPM, E/Win 7 Pro, Office '10, 14", 6.6lbs, two eight-hour batteries, backlit keyboard ¥33,000. masui41@live.com

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

12 SOCIAL SCENE 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.

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/

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,

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 22 and July 13. Iidabashi and Yokohama: July 6 and 20. For more info: www.leafparty. com

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS

Monitor, Acer, LCD, 21.5", G225HQ, resolution 1920x1080, aspect ratio 16:9, DVI and VGA inputs, original packaging ¥10,000. Pick up Saginomiya or Nakamurabashi stn. ohpopshop@ gmail.com

10 HELP!

All-you-can-drink and snacks. ¥3000. sip@toeiclesson.com www.toeiclesson.com/sip/ 090-1735-5405

13.1 SPORTS

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/

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

SPECIAL INTERNATIONAL PA R T Y - C A N A D A D AY S PEC IAL . S a t , J u n e 2 9, 6-8:30pm, Assembly Hall (O m ote s a n d o). H e l d by Japan's biggest international friendship site and English portal site. 2 50 people.

Everybody welcome!

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/ ALL-NATIONALITY TOUCH FOOTBALL. Non-contact 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 J a p a n e s e Ru g by Le a g u e official games from Apr to S e p. Eve r yo n e we lco m e .

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 o nth o n we e ke n d s in Meguro with many socials. Join us!

More details: www.tamjapan.org/ en/ info@tamjapan.org Futsal in central Tokyo. We are seeking people who are crazy into soccer. We play futsal in central Tokyo on Sun evenings. Any nationality welcome. If interested, feel free to contact me. ooedo.futsal@gmail.com Futsal players needed. Want to play futsal in central Tokyo on weekends?

Please introduce yourself (name, age, nationality, where you live, futsal experience, whether or not you belong to another team). futsaluk@yahoo.co.jp Jogging Yokosuka. SJM seeking friends to jog 3-5km in Yokosuka, mornings preferred, but depending on the day, other times could work, too. ジ ョギング仲間募集横須賀. elsalvadorjapan@ yahoo.es Kids' ice hockey team in HigashiYamato. We are seeking members 4-9 years old. Practices are Thu and Sun from 6:15-7:45pm. If you are interested, contact us. piyopiyotaku0605@alpha.ocn.ne.jp 090-2489-8998 Volleyball Club Intervoll. Japanese and foreign volleyball players gather in Takadanobaba to enjoy playing. Have volleyball experience and want to play volleyball in a friendly atmosphere? intervollclub@yahoo.co.jp http:// intervoll.sakura.ne.jp/ Women's football club. Five-aside, 11-a-side, on grass fields. Two or three practices/matches on Sun. All nationalities, experience levels, beginners welcome. Happy and friendly club! We have many socials. djnorio@hotmail.co.jp

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 Bit Chu gaming group. Video game buff? Arcade gamer? Onliner? Hit us up on Facebook for gatherings in Tokyo!

Gaming, drinking, chatting, etc. Good times. m_hemingway@ymail.com www. facebook.com/ArcadesAroundTokyo

13.4 MUSIC Aspiring sax player s e e kin g buddies to jam with. I have been practicing solo for a couple of years now. Mainly jazz. Seeking likeminded musicians to practice with on weekends/weeknights. I am living in Minami-Azabu. pknight01@mac.com 090-6015-1424 Bass player for established Tokyo

band. All-original rock band needs bass player. We're Americans, 30s40s. Please check out our music at thebignothingtokyo.bandcamp.com and get in touch with us if you like it.

Serious only. kurtschussler@hotmail. com Drums wanted around Yokohama.

Seeking a drummer who could help us release a CD and perform a show as a support member. We play rock and have rehearsals around ShinYokohama. m_a_b1998@yahoo.co.jp Guitarist seeks band. Guitarist looking to form or join band. I listen to jazz, early punk, No Wave, Brian Eno, Robert Quine, Robert Fripp, Keith Levene, The Doors. No funk, covers or disco. Prefer instrumental band or minimal vocals. edonara@yahoo.com Keyboardist sought by band. We play originals and covers. Need someone who can play funk, fusion and Latin. christianpelissero@yahoo.fr Melodic hardcore band seeking guitarist. We're seeking a regular guitarist. You can find "Agent of the Grand Canyon" on Facebook. If you're interested, email us. twelvesunday@ gmail.com http://www.myspace.com/ agcpunk Rap/hard rock singer needed. Rap/ metal singer who can sing to a rock beat. Modeled after Rage Against The Machine. Original cool rhythms, rock and African. karaive@yahoo.com

Diamond Way Buddhism Tokyo.

Do you want to explore your own mind? Guided Buddhist meditation every Sun, 6pm, near Azabu-Juban.

International practitioners, beginners welcome, Japanese spoken. Please call 090-3598-3072 for more information. daginia@gmail.com http://www. diamondway.jp/ Zen meditation (Zazen). You've always thought it would be interesting to try it - why not now? Join us Fri evenings at Tokuun-in in Ueno. Make arrangements in advance by email, and check our home page. tokyozazen@ jcom.home.ne.jp www.wgthorpe.com

13.9 INTERNATIONAL Buddy circle in Tokyo. Love Tokyo?

New to Tokyo? Why don't you join Tokyo Buddy Circle? hara.akihiro@ gmail.com Intercultural Activities. JII (Japan Intercultural Institute) is a nonprofit, member-run organization that sponsors activities (seminars, cultural events, conferences) for those wanting to further develop intercultural competencies and m e et oth e r inte rculturali st s . director@japanintercultural.org www.japanintercultural.org

14 PERSONALS 14.1 FRIENDS

Seeking drummer in Tokyo. We are an indie band in Tokyo seeking a pop/ punk drummer. Check our website, please! taro.ebisudani@gmail.com http://nineideas.jp/

British friends. I lived in the UK and am interested in meeting British people to hang out with on weekends.

I'm a nonsmoking JF, 31. Hope to get to know some people around my age. summersky13@mail.goo.ne.jp

Seeking guitar, bass, drums for alternative/electronic band for concerts, jamming and fun together!

Band of four years, with keyboard and singer-songwriter. Practice Sat. Please contact with name, part, link. dmh_36@ yahoo.com www.rightmind-music.com

Coffee, walking, friends! DWF, 32, in Bunkyo-ku, seeking new friends and conversation. Japanese ok, but still a beginner. Also loves wine, anime/ manga, karaoke, shopping. Let's walk and talk and build a good friendship! jamiesturges@gmail.com

Seeking talented singers! Writer/ producer/guitarist seeking a guy with a good indie rock voice and girls with soulful voices to form a band. I have 14 tracks demoed for an album, just need to do some final writing and then record it. Influences: Caribou, Radiohead, Flying Lotus, Burial. Send your demo and I'll send mine! visual_ ben@hotmail.com

Dance friends. JM is seeking dance friends. My styles are hip hop and break dancing, but not house, techno or trance. I have some choreography. Let's work out in the open air or at studios together around Tokyo. sds_hijiken@ hotmail.com

Smooth jazz keyboardist needed with solid chops to do some funky, cool, smooth jazz for semi-pro gigs. kenzenjazz1nyo@gmail.com Yes, another "bass player wanted" ad. Original music. Play any style. Can actually "play." No slappers. No suits.

Sample of playing. dreamat@nifty.com

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT YOGA CLASS will start from July 8. Why not challenge yourself for two hours between 6:30 and 8:30pm Mon at Yoyogi Kumin Kaikan? International practitioners, beginners welcome. It's run in English. info@slow-marketing.net 080-5374-3011

Fishing. I'm seeking friends who like fishing. Let's go together. I work for a fishing tackle company.

Drop me a line if you are interested. piyopiyotaku0605@alpha.ocn.ne.jp Futsal or tennis in Yokohama. I'm a JF seeking someone who can play futsal or some other sports on the weekend! Or, can I join your group with a friend? I look forward to your email. danku333@goo.jp Japanese male seeks new friends from around the world for friendship and going out! Let's be friends! superisajp2008@yahoo.co.jp 09039098457 Japanese man seeking friends in Japan. I am 24 and live in Tokyo. I like smiles and dogs. I help foreigners in Japan. I want to spend fun times with you. mitunari1@infoseek.jp

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Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp Jazz-playing friends. JM seeks jazz players for fun. I've been playing the alto sax for a couple of years. Still amateur, but want to play with others. yossynet@ra2.so-net.ne.jp JF in Tokyo 37, seeks a friend of any age. I like Manics, Suede, Stephen Fry, Andrew Lawrence, Winnie the Pooh, drawing and writing poetry. miaowsch@docomo.ne.jp Jogging mates near Shinjuku-Gyoen.

I haven't started yet, but would like to start jogging around Shinjuku-Gyoen in the morning at 6am. I live near the park. JF seeking friends to encourage/ motivate each other. Thanks! myheartskipsabeat0@gmail.com Kawasaki area. I'm a JF, 36, recently moved to Kawasaki (Musashi-Kosugi area), seeking friends in the area. I like working out and active stuff. Just hit me up if you are around! Let's have lunch together and hang out! ninja2237@ gmail.com Running mate wanted. Do you enjoy running in this perfect season, but are getting bored running alone? Same here! I'm seeking a running mate in the Ikebukuro/Mejiro/Takadanobaba area. Let's run together and stay fit! loveurpp@gmail.com SoftBank friends. European man, 42, is seeking friends near Tama-shi, SoftBank users, please. I like running and cycling, am free on weekends, speak French and Japane se . wasabi70@yahoo.fr Spanish study mates sought in Yokosuka or Yokohama by JM. My level is intermediate. Any nationality ok. Por supuesto, quisiera hablar con hablantes nativos de español tambien! 英語無料教えます。elsalvadorjapan@ yahoo.es 090-4419-4881

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN An extraordinary Japanese guy.

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 Any women want fun in Narita? Hi, I am living in Narita. I'm a white man, in good shape, seeking a girl, any age or size ok. Let's just have fun. I can host.

Your photo for mine. boosted_art@ 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 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 Caring for each other. JM, 44, slim, young-looking, seeks a Western female for a love-filled relationship. I promise you respect and understanding. Let's start from good friendship and see how it goes. Sincere, decent personality required. toshinoris1012@yahoo.co.jp Cool Japan. Please contact me if you like Japanese subcultures (karaoke, animation, cosplay, etc.). I'm a Japanese gentleman, 40s, well-educated, sense of humor, seeking a foreign girlfriend who likes these subcultures. Any nationality, age ok. Residents of Japan only. ryu9@softbank.ne.jp Englishman seeking princess. Tall Englishman living in Tokyo, late 30s, seeking a princess to enjoy special times. godalming1975@yahoo.co.uk Feminine, normal JF. English guy, single, 30s, seeks an attractive, feminine, normal JF, under 40, for a serious relationship. Your photo gets mine. p.h414@yahoo.co.uk Friendship with benefits. Hi, I am a 28-year-old guy seeking friendship with benefits with a Japanese lady, any age.

Let's share our feelings and spend good time together. Long-term relationship

possible if we match. See ya. uniman@ gmail.com

sought. Any age/nationality ok. montamula@yahoo.com

relationship with an artistic man. marikok08@gmail.com

Fun in the sun. American gentleman, attractive, clean, 30s. Not seeking a serious relationship at this time.

You should be 20-30, fun, sexy, o p e n - min d e d an d at tra c tive . deepwatersmind@yahoo.com

Serious relationship. Nonsmoking white European, 33, sincere, fun, likes music, watching movies, going to the seaside, seeks serious relationship. 日 本語でも大丈夫です. parisatokyo2011@ gmail.com

Grad student seeks mature lady for casual relationship. Tall, blond, slightly athletic European grad student living in Tokyo is seeking an open-minded JF, 30-40, for casual romantic encounters.

Email w/photo. eurotiger160@yahoo. co.jp

Shouting/drinking partner. I'm a businessman, 33, positive about everything, seeking a decent woman, any nationality ok. Let's enjoy drinks/ food and reduce some pressure. If interested, drop me a line. pxttdzxus@i. softbank.jp

Attractive SJF, mid-30s, enjoys onsen, hiking, picnics, cooking, seeking longterm relationsip with a SWM who's genuine, interesting and intelligent enough to make nice conversation.

Let's make a lot of fun times in our lives. usagidrop@inter7.jp

Japanese guy, around 40, speaks English/Spanish, seeking a girlfriend for a relationship leading to marriage in/ around Tokyo. I'm not highly paid, but I am kind and humorous. My hobbies are jogging, Latin dance, language learning. elsalvadorjapan@yahoo.es

So many things to do... why don't we do them together? SWM, 30s, seeks an artistic, slightly nerdy woman to share fun time at movies, exhibitions, concerts, and in more private situations. domix.m@tiscali.it

Charming! Where are you? Hello, there! Funny French woman is seeking her Japanese prince charming. Me? Sweet and kind, 30-ish. You? The same and ready to love. Players not allowed.

A bientôt! elorasan69@yahoo.com

Tall, dark, handsome American, about to turn 30, speaks Japanese, seeks JF. Have lived in and out of Japan since 2000. I speak, read, write Japanese. lovesorare_2000@yahoo. com

Chemistry. Romance makes my life so fulfilling. Educated, feminine Japanese, 40-ish, angelic face, great figure, seeks single professional, 40s50s, fun-loving, down-to-earth, mature enough to be able to truly connect with a partner. the10thwavehi@yahoo.co.jp

JM seeking international friend.

JM, 175cm, 65kg, seeking international friend for going out in Tokyo. My hobbies are playing the alto sax, travel, drinking and new things. Contact me. yossynet@ra2.so-net.ne.jp JM seeking serious relationship.

Japanese, 40, 177cm, nonsmoker, seeking a serious relationship. If you are a well-educated woman from Europe, AU/NZ or America and live in Tokyo or Kansai, please email me. Let's start as friends first. obichamte1999@ yahoo.co.jp Mature and sophisticated Japanese, some have said charming, seeking an elegant, passionate, kind SWF. I dream about wild nights as well as sharing the simple pleasures of love. Is that you? imak1_2_3@yahoo.co.jp Mature romance. Foreigner in Tokyo, into cinema, art, music and conversations, seeks a single, smart lady, living in Tokyo, 40s-50s, for friendship and hopefully more. dennisgulliver@yahoo.com

Tall, fun, handsome Caucasian, 37. I dream of being in love with a Japanese woman. I don't care about your age, background or education. If you're passionate, romantic, hungry for love, you are the one for me. Please write me.

228rdr1er@gmail.com Tokyo nights. I'm seeking new friends to explore Tokyo's nightlife scene with.

Money is not an issue, so drop me a line and let's enjoy the city's nights! addakota@yahoo.com Western male, 36, active, blond hair, blue eyes, seeks English-speaking Japanese female who is pretty, adventurous, seeking a sincere guy. p.h414@yahoo.co.uk

14.3 WOMEN LOOKING FOR MEN

Nice single Frenchman, 30s, 177cm, good-looking, living in central Tokyo, warm and lovely personality, working in advertising and also as a photographer.

I like travel, onsen, movies, etc. Seeking a nice Japanese girlfriend! cdgnrt@ yahoo.fr Nice WM seeking girlfriend or friend.

Tall, cool-looking SW professional guy, working in Tokyo in business, seeking girlfriend or just friend. Like jazz, movies, going out for drinks and sports. iilvworld@yahoo.com Older woman? Sane, relaxed, attractive SJM, 26, seeks someone older. Maybe we can go to a nice cafe or get drinks first. I want to take it easy.

Hope to hear from you. akaiyuuwaku@ gmail.com

Seeking nice company for drinks near Tokyo. I'm 33, positive about everything, seeking a decent girl. Hope we can be good friends and share some nice moments. If interested, drop a line. pxttdzxus@i.softbank.jp Seeking SWF. Many thanks for reading my ad. SJM, 40s, with Western education and professional job,seeking a SWF, 25-35, for a non-casual relationship. Let's start as friends.

Please email me for details. vtanac@ yahoo.co.jp Seeking you. Are you attractive?

Intelligent? Kind? Affectionate?

With a big heart? Then I would like to meet you! I'm all of the above and much more. SWM, 30s, professional, living and working in Tokyo. deepwatersmind@yahoo.com Serious and long-term relationship

Concert date. Single JF, around 40, well-educated, charming and active, seeks single American partner, around 40. If you have some knowledge of classic rock and soul, are interested in concerts in central Tokyo, that would be ideal. No kids, please. antlia11@ yahoo.com 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 Good time. I'm a SJF, 30s, hoping to meet someone nice to enjoy some time after work or on weekends. I like sports (jogging, yoga, swimming), reading, cooking. Stable and comfortable relationship preferred. midor78@ gmail.com

Seeking long-term relationship with dog lover. SJF seeks a foreign or Japanese man, 28-40, in Tokyo, kind, sweet, gentle, loves dogs (!), and laughing together. Must speak some Japanese. Please attach your photo.

Mata ne! hawaiianpine73@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

Mature lady seeks a friend. Attractive, cultured, fun SJF, late 50s, seeks a decent and fun guy to go out with.

Though it seems almost impossible, hope it works. candlelit@aol.jp Must be dreaming. SJF, late 30s, tall, enjoying a stylish life, seeking a real, open-minded, fashionable SWM, with a taste for the finer things in life. Would love to share your passionate life. Longterm relationship would be perfect! clair_de_pleine_lune@yahoo.co.jp

SJF for long-lasting relationship.

SJF, mid-30s, mentally mature, genuine and cheerful, enjoys the outdoors, art and food, is seeking an intelligent SWM, 25-45, who can make interesting conversation, have dates on weekends. No info, no reply. sommer@inter7.jp SJF seeks American or German SWM. SJF, mid-30s, feminine, slim, seeks SWM, 29-40, living and working in Tokyo. Starting off as friends is preferable, but leading to a serious relationship. zushiemi@yahoo.co.jp Talk over light drinks? SJF, 40s, seeking a WM, any age, in central Tokyo. Would you treat me to light drinks and food, and chat with me?

I'm open to anything right now. Let's see where it leads! metro201306@ gmail.com Waiting for a man in uniform to ask me out. I am a Japanese woman, mid40s. I would like to go on a date with a military man who is stationed here in Japan. hito3deve@jcom.home.ne.jp

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Attractive SJF, around 40, seeks nonsmoking single American in Tokyo, around 40, for life partner. Company worker, humorous person preferred.

Please tell me where you live and what you do when replying. No military. bluedia7@yahoo.com Art and nature. If you love the mountains, we might have a chance.

I live in the upland forest in a cute log house. SJF, 40s, spiritual, artistic, fit, earthy, seeking a long-term

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Nurturing, beautiful, playful. More importantly, cultured and intelligent.

Radiant Japanese beauty, 44, comfortable with my own femininity and appearance, seeks a professional single American of a mature age. Make me laugh, and I will make you smile when you see me. honeydaisy97@yahoo.co.jp Partner for happiness. Attractive, slender, sincere SJF, 56, young looks and heart, lovely inside and out, seeks nonsmoking professional WM, sincere, cheerful, affectionate, warmhearted, for marriage. I like travel, hiking, dining out. Serious reply w/photo, please. ahappycharm@mail.goo.ne.jp Pretty Japanese girl seeking a relationship. Friendly, fun SJF, early 30s, living in Tokyo, is seeking a handsome and sincere guy, 30s, E/J speaker, to hang out with. Please email me if you are interested. tweety.20tn@gmail. com

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Serious relationship. I'm a friendly and young-looking SJF, early 40s, seeking a serious Caucasian boyfriend. I like movies, travel, nature, wine and dining out. Reply w/photo, please. hellojapansan@yahoo.co.jp

It's almost summer. I am a tall JF, 39.

I want to meet an American guy, 33-39, living in Japan now. Photo, please. kanagawa_girl@outlook.com

Please rescue me! Caucasian male, 38, tall, slender, educated, handsome, sophisticated, enjoys travel, dining, wine, cooking, sailing and passionate romance. New to Japan and hoping to fall madly, deeply in love. Will give anything for your affection. Rescue me. no3eroica@outlook.com Seeking Japanese friends, maybe more. Australian, 26, seeking some casual fun in Tokyo. I am a fun, openminded guy seeking someone to share a good time after work or on the weekend. r_andom@hotmail.com

Black boyfriend sought by caring, pretty and educated single JF in Tokyo for a serious long-term relationship.

Single American, 38-43, nonsmoker preferred. Tokyo resident, no kids, please. bluedia7@yahoo.com

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Any pretty girls want to watch? Hi, we want a pretty lady to watch us make love. If you are interested, please let us know. bluecamel2010@gmail.com Bi lady welcome. Let's enjoy erotic time in a threesome. Me: Japanese, 38. Partner: female, same age, very attractive and sexy. We have some experience swapping and with threesomes. Women only. tshockgo@ yahoo.co.jp Happening bar fun. I'm a European guy who'd like to meet a lovely lady and take her to a happening bar. Let me take you to places you've never been before and share feelings that you didn't think were possible. threesomejapan@ hotmail.com https://www.facebook. com/dee.px.9 Submissive male seeking CFNM experience. Submissive white male, 39, would like to be a naked waiter/ toy/servant for interested lady/ladies.

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BY CATHRYN MOE

Horoscope

♥ Love ¥ Money ♣ Luck

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Say it however it needs to be said. Write it from your heart. Compose your personal lyrics in the midst of chaos.

Pallas Athene motivates you to the top notes of your original self. The full moon Sunday reflects how you’re feeling, whatever it may be. Let your expression be clear and true. You’re in the perfect position to make a difference that reverberates around the world and into the cosmos.

Almost a free space in your star-map this week. Oh, except your part of fortune (now thought to be the part of spirit) is in your sign and connects with the south node of the moon. Meaning you’re finishing up something you started long ago. Like really before, even a past lifetime. You won’t have to do it again as long as you stay true to yourself and paint in the colors of your soul that have been waiting to be filled.

Your life experiments are turning out well. Pallas Athene in your sign encourages you to do it your way.

With your ability to float, enjoy the last moments of Jupiter (party boy and entrepreneur) in Gemini.

Jupiter transits to your income sector Tuesday, and your ruler Mercury retrogrades on Wednesday. But Venus moves to your area of connections and neighbors on Thursday. And Venus loves you!

The Sun in early Cancer shines and motivates you. Happy Birthday to all Cancerians—you’re now in your Birthday Zone! The full moon opposite your sign on Sunday is another smile from the skies to let you know you have time and space on your side.

Are you up and running yet? Make sure you give yourself the gentle loving touch of rest and recuperation. Then you’ll really enjoy your recreation.

LEO

VIRGO

Aug 23, 24~Sep 22, 23 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣

Sep 23, 24~Oct 22, 23 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

LIBRA

SCORPIO

You can feel it in the air. Your careful blend of authority and charisma allows you to drop your guard at just the right times. A desire to go deeper, to make a connection that is truly satisfying pushes you to look further.

Motivated by inner urges, your spirit moves on waves unseen. A dream lover seeks you, represented by Venus and Mercury in your twelfth house of what’s behind the scenes. Dream back.

Virgos can’t help but want to drift off into dreamy land with Neptune and Chiron in your significant other sector.

Then old wounds surface and you get a chance to rewrite your future history. Do invest in yourself.

Not only are you worth it, you feel better every time you let yourself re-balance. Appreciation is a big theme, reflected in the full moon on Sunday.

Your turn is coming. Get glammed up.

Philosophies you’ve been trying on like clothes in a department store finally pan out. The Sun has moved to your career sector, shining its reflected light on Sunday's full moon. If you keep your cool or admit you’re not in the midst of news and excitement, you hold a position of stellar authority. Respect that may have seemed latent takes hold and you, like a lustrous pearl, are ready to receive it.

Wednesday is the day to look for comfort and validation, though you’re so intuitive you might well find it earlier and later too. Saturn in your sign is still retrograde, but the Cancer sun makes a happy trine that day to help send your fears away. Someone you think may be holding back truly is, but for a reason that serves you in the not-very-long-run. Find another outlet for your sexy persona while you’re waiting.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

The crux of the matter is the transition you’re in. You might want things to already be set before you, but they’d have to morph with your jujitsu spiritual moves— how much energy would that take? Cuddle up to your frustration spots and tickle them out of their framework. It’s not long now before that big picture just picks you up and puts you in a place where you can truly be yourself. The full moon Sunday asks you to make a wish.

Run, jump, twist, hop—realign and find your sweet spot. The whole planet is readjusting and you have a major role in it. With Pluto in your sign, the next foundational leap is in your hands too. You have just as much light and power as the next person and your strength grows daily. What you have suspected for a while now shows itself. There is no going back, just recalibration until you’re in the flow that suits you.

Open those envelopes of treasured memories from the past and let them become the starlight you need to find your way home. Once cleared, you’ll know just who and how and when. The parameters of what once were moves out of the way. The magic is there and needs your trust to grow. Vibes are finely tuned this week so consider yourself the instrument that needs gentle handling. Love grows.

Inspired by the beauty of cosmic forces? If it has a spiritual twist, you’re there. A romantic, Pisces is never far from true love of some sort. Moving into the Aquarian era means high vibes and heart math blending into an equation of love while taking care of daily duties. Uranus kicks up opportunities in your finance sector, romance starts with hot soup, and life at home becomes crystal-clear this week.

March 20, 21 - April 19, 20 ♥♥♥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♣♣♣

July 23, 24~Aug 22, 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Nov 22, 23~Dec 21, 22 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣♣

Apr 20, 21~May 20, 21 ♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

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THONGS UP & THONGS DOWN Regarding “Brief Encounters” (The Last Word, June 7): It just doesn’t sound like you’re trying terribly hard. Yes, there’s the cutesy stuff, but there’s a whole lot of other stuff too. Whilst Japanese department stores tend to have small ranges of imported underwear and generic domestic stuff, you’ve really got to venture a bit further afield to find

what you’re after. Takashimaya and Betsey Johnson, etc., or heaven forefend, get on Rakuten so you can see the kind of thing that’s available in Japan.—Peony You should really check out The Little Vicious. Amazing Japanese lingerie designer, much different than what you have probably seen so far.—Frank I have to agree. The style of lingerie

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here just doesn’t impress me. And since I am on the well-endowed end of the scale, it’s impossible to find anything in my size. Like I do with most clothes, I just buy things when I am abroad.— blondein_tokyo This is really just like a Livejournal post. Japan is different from the US and the UK. Before you criticize the place about stuff you can’t find (that maybe you can find easily in the UK or US), try to dig deeper than just Peace John. That’s like saying Victoria’s Secret is the only lingerie shop in the US. Maybe here it’s a bit more discreet and difficult to find, but it’s there.— William

STARRY EYED Regarding “Star of Stars” (Q&A, May 24): Great article! I have always enjoyed looking up at the stars, now you give them a voice increasing their awesomeness. I believe “It’s In The

Stars” gives each person a glimpse of our true self. Thank You.—Carolyn Really interesting interview. I follow these horoscopes weekly from Scotland and I find Cathryn’s writing very accessible and accurate. I look forward to next week's peak into the stars.—Susan Cathy’s a bit of a star herself. Love her column and fascinating to find out more about her.—Rob Interesting interview. Cathy, my personal astrologer is amazing and very accurate!—Brenda Honda

RAMENISTA Regarding “Old School Ramen” (Local Flavors, May 24):I have only been to two of these three, and thank you for the descriptions of “the real thing.” Ok, back to waiting in line, at the queue, for ramen at my train stop. :)—Soxbox

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The Last Word

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

THE QUALITY OF MERCY Japan's OTC drug laws must change to ease pain and suffering

By Richard P. Greenfield

TARA NANGIA

J

ust before the end of the year the Supreme Court in Japan ruled that over the counter (OTC) medicines could be sold online. But last month the panel assigned to study the matter could not agree due to differences over Class 1 medicines that may have “serious” side effects.

Not to belitt le t he ministr y’s ef for ts, but websites have been available for years selling OTC and prescription medications to users here—in larger varieties than available loca lly, and w it h Japanese language and currency support. So getting it done is the simplest of all things—a defensive market play.

But the difficulty agreeing on baseline definitions gives an idea of the currents running below.

There are some obvious trends.

An aging population—Japan has

experienced the longest and steepest decline in fertility in modern history—requires (and will require) more care. The drain on medical resources is exacerbated by the fact that most prescriptions in Japan are capped at 30 days, necessitating a clinic visit even if only to refill a prescription. Solutions are discussed such as letting more students attend medical school, allowing foreign doctors to practice in Japan, and even telemedicine. The first, while desirable, has a very long timeline; the second brings up Japan’s hoary old immigration issues; and the third, while feasible, is not yet here.

In the meantime, people suffer.

Some find a solution by going out of the system. Clinics where I live recently began issuing Tramacet (containing 37.5 mg of Tramadol, a synthetic opioid analgesic, and 325mg of Aceteminophen). Outside Japan, Tramadol is available in 100, 200, 300 and even the time-

streets hawking their drugs? Were t hat so, all t he count ries where t hey a re sold wou ld have huge abuse problems—yet they do not.

In Britain, terminal hospices use Brompton’s Solution, a medicine containing morphine, cocaine, and pure alcohol. This has not created a new class of addicts, but allowed many who are terminally ill to live their last days without agony.

The use of medical marijuana began because of t he verif iable benefits to patients with chronic conditions (e.g. glaucoma sufferers or t hose i n chemot herapy).

Though it does not get much press, MDMA (Ecstasy) and LSD are both t he subject of super v ised medical experiments in the US. MDMA has been shown to have an effect in certain serious depressive conditions and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and LSD for other cond it ions. Iron ica l ly, before each subst a nce w as made i l lega l i n the US, possible therapeutic benefits were overlooked for political considerations.

What is choking change in Japan

release 400mg tablets. Few patients may ever need the largest dose (or any of the other analgesics presently not available in Japan), but for those that do—should they not be available? Do police or politicians really believe patients in such dire circumstances would be out on the

is a perfect storm of laws—some dating from the Occupation years— and their consequences: doctors unt rained in t he most ef fect ive palliative therapies, and a pharmaceutical industry that has wielded too much power (as in many other places) over national healthcare

issues.

The government has taken steps in recent years to promote medical tourism to Japan. But to whom do they plan to appeal? Medical tourists go to other countries for reasons of price, quality of care, and medication availability. They do not travel to eat in Michelin-starred restaurants, despite the admirable numbers of those in Tokyo.

The situation as it exists now is a hodgepodge of patchwork regulations and selected enforcement.

In 2010 the percentage of the population over 65 was already 23.1 percent, and those who will care for the aging population makes it untenable. The bell tolls for every human on these islands who will be touched, in one way or another, because of parents, siblings, partners, family or friends.

“Gambaru,” may be appropriate for athletics and business but it becomes something completely different when applied to pain and suffering. What is missing here is something simpler and more fundamental: mercy. And the best lines about mercy were written long ago

by The Bard. “The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven, upon the place beneath.”

The rainy season is underway.

FEW PATIENTS MAY EVER NEED THE LARGEST DOSE (OR ANY OF THE OTHER ANALGESICS PRESENTLY NOT AVAILABLE IN JAPAN), BUT FOR THOSE THAT DO— SHOULD THEY NOT BE AVAILABLE?” ■ Richard P. Greenfield is a journalist and consultant who lives in Tsukuba

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

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