Metropolis #1037 Feb 7-20, 2014

Japan’s Nº1 English Magazine

www.metropolis.co.jp

HOTEI Guitar God HOW HE GOT HERE WHERE HE’S HEADED

#1037 Feb 7~20, 2014

FREE!

GAMES 3 FOR THE ROAD ART ORIGINS OF KAWAII DINING OUT DRINKS IN SASAZUKA SOUFFLÉ IN YOKOHAMA THE LAST WORD IRASSHAIMASE?

PLUS GET STYLED

IN OUR HAIR SALON SPECIAL

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Dermatologist

www.akaiclinic.com

Make your beauty wishes come true with the best in technology and high quality products C

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

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t en m t rea are C rT e s in La Sk

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NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS

• EYELID SURGERY rejuvenation of upper and lower eye lid, tear trough, double eyelid surgery, blepharoptosis, etc.

• NOSE SURGERY tip plasty, hump resection, deviated nose, ala reduction, augmentation or reduction rhinoplasty.

• BREAST SURGERY augmentation, lift, reduction, reconstruction.

• LIPOSUCTION with laser, ultra sonic assisted suction device.

• LASER-LIPO minimal invasive facial and body contouring device with AccuSculpt™ (1444nm laser).

• FACE LIFT forehead, brow, mid-face, neck lift, thread’s lift.

• TISSUE ENGINEERING TECHNIQUES for facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, AGA (PRFM, fat & stem cell injection, growth factor.

• SKIN TUMORS skin cancer, cyst, mole, wart, scar revision.

• GENITAL REJUVENATION SURGERY: tightening of the vagina, reduction of labia minor and augmentation of the labia major.

• HAIR TRANSPLANTATION SURGERY

• LASER & REJUVENATION Lasers, RFs, IPLs, Plasma, Ultra Sound for wrinkle, sagging, drooping, open pores, rosacea, skin complexion, pigmentation, melisma with SOLARI, Aurora-Pro, INFINI, eCO2, Affirm, EndyMed, Portrait Plasma, SPECTRA, AccuSculpt, etc.

New location opening!

Quality of Akai Clinic

Akai Clinic Skincare in Yokohama.

The Yokohama clinic offers specialized treatment in the areas of acne, acne scars, and sun damage.Treatments are done after careful counseling, so if you are unsure about treatments, please visit our clinic for a consultation.

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

DR. KEIKO AKAI is also a board-certified plastic surgeon, and a dermatologist.

The Akai Medical Clinic offers a range of cosmetic-surgery procedures, laser treatments and skin care, using state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques.

• BOTOX & FILLERS: Allergan’s BOTOX, Juvederm, Radiesse etc.

• ACNE & ACNE SCARS Plasma, Fractional lasers (eCO2, Affirm), INFINI (fractional RF), iClear (photo dynamic therapy), Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peeling.

• LASER HAIR REMOVAL All kinds of lasers available: Alex and Long Pulsed YAG, Diode laser, etc.

• TATTOO REMOVAL with Spectra (Q-YAG laser) for any color of tattoo.

• CELLULITE, BODY CONTOURING & STRETCH MARKS Vela Smooth and EndyMed body (FDA Approved).

• LEG VEIN, BROKEN CAPILLARY Long Pulsed YAG or VenoCare.

At Akai clinic, we only use products and technologies approved by the FDA. We are committed to offering the best treatment to our customers, with the latest technology and top class products for patients who want to receive the highest quality treatment.

CAMPAIGN PRICES VALID UNTIL FEB 28

50% off for BOTOX, laser hair removal and hyarulonic acid TESTIMONIALS I had surgery to remove a large mole on my face. I was nervous until the surgery started, but once it started I felt the experience and skill of Dr. Akai and was able to remain confident about the surgery the entire time. There are many beauty clinics in Tokyo, but I was fortunate to have come to Akai Clinic and receive a great treatment from an experienced doctor with the highest quality skills.

—FEMALE, 33 YEARS, OFFICE WORKER

Omotesando

Yokohama

Tel: 03-5771-4114 Email: amc@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~8PM (Mon~Sun)

Tel: 045-620-5745 Email: amc-skincare@akaiclinic.com Clinic hours: 11AM~7PM (Tue~Fri) & 10AM~5PM (Sat & Hol)

KNK Bldg 3F 3-5-17, Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo.

1-min walk from Omotesando stn, A3 exit.

Quadrifoglio 4F 5-14 Kinkocho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama.

1-min walk from Yokohama stn, North East exit.

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

We welcome email and phone inquiries.

www.akaiclinic.com

INSIDE #1037

Metropolis Members Club Register for prizes & discounts www.metropolis.co.jp/club

FEB 7-20, 2014

THIS WEEK’S WINNER! Leilani Maruquez won a set ofseven nail enamels Courtesy of Revlon

COURTESY OF DADA MUSIC LTD

Photo of the week

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

Valentine’s Day Party

Friday Feb 14, 11:30pm - 5am

@ Pasela Resorts Grande Shibuya

Entrance ¥2,500/1D For more info:

10 MUSIC

http://metropolis.co.jp/events

HOTEI

By Dan Grunebaum 03 THE SMALL PRINT 05 UPFRONT 06 HAIR SALON FEATURE 10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 13 AGENDA & LISTINGS 22 MOVIES 24 DINING OUT 27 CLASSIFIEDS & JOBS 33 HOROSCOPE & MEDIABOX 34 THE LAST WORD COVER DESIGN: KOHJI SHIIKI

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

The Small Print

By Steve Trautlein

I NEVER THOUGHT IT WOULD CONTINUE SO “ LONG, BUT (BY FOCUSING ON THIS) I MISSED THE CHANCE TO GET MARRIED” —Columnist

develop “technology to make objective assessments of palatability.” ćć Physicians at Sapporo Medical University will conduct Japan’s first clinical trial using stem cells in an attempt to regenerate the nerves of people with spinal cord injuries. ćć Researchers at the University of Tokyo have found that when female medaka (killfish) seek a mate, they choose males that are “visually familiar.”

Sawako Agawa, who recently published her 1,000th celebrity profile for weekly magazine Shukan Bunshuri

CHRISTI ROCHIN

SCUMBAGS ’R’ US ćć Just when you thought TEPCO couldn’t get any slimier, the utility is demanding that its employees’ families return the compensation they received to evacuate their homes following the nuclear disaster at Fukushima Daiichi. ćć An elementary school teacher in Yokohama was arrested for selling children’s books from the school library in an online auction. ćć Officials at Sanrio were forced to admit that some of the merchandise at their flagship store in Ginza was labeled as made in Japan when in fact it came from China. ćć Headline of the Week: “Head of NPO Promoting Motherhood Arrested for Beating his Wife” (via Japan Today)

NEWS FROM THE LAB

BETTER RED THAN DEAD ćć The Japan Communist Party revealed that it’s losing about 500 members each month due to “advanced age or death.” ćć Officials at the NPA say 27,195 people committed suicide in Japan in 2013—the second consecutive year that the number was below 30,000.

0

Prefectures in Japan that will be Starbucksfree after a branch of the US coffee giant opens in Tottori early next year

ćć The justice ministry says 50 dialysis machines are available in prisons around the country to treat convicts with kidney ailments. The bad news? Almost no prison doctors know how to operate the devices. ćć A breakout of food poisoning in Shizuoka sickened 900 children and forced the closure of 14 elementary schools.

SOMETHING IN THE AIR ćć Officials at the environment ministry confirmed that a crested ibis released from a conservation center on Sado Island has made its way to Honshu. It’s the first such sighting in three years. ćć Meanwhile, it was reported that ibises still in captivity on Sado have been destroying their own eggs, possibly as a result of “stress.” ćć An unidentified object that dropped from a US military aircraft flying over Kanagawa smashed the windshield of a parked car but caused no injuries. ćć Put away the party hats: the head of the IMF has said that the “initial boost from Abenomics is weakening a bit.”

UPWARD & ONWARD

ćć Researchers from Kyoto University and an aquarium in Niigata have found that dolphins and humans “seem to perceive the world in fundamentally similar ways.” ćć Scientists in Tokyo and Hiroshima have begun a study to determine how the taste of different foods affects blood circulation. The goal is to

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www.123rf.com/metropolis

Seen at a rail station in Tokyo, by Samm Bennett (www.polarityrecords.com)

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4

Length, in meters, of a giant squid caught in a fishing net set up for buri off the coast of Niigata

ćć Officials at the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology said they’ll revise their code of ethics to allow common-law couples to undergo in vitro fertilization. ćć The government says 76.6 percent of college seniors have landed jobs prior to graduation this spring, a rise of 1.6 percentage points from last year. ćć In the first promotional event of its kind, makers of kokuto shochu held a tasting event for importers, restaurateurs and hotel operators in Berlin. ćć At the same time, officials in Gifu have announced plans to invade France… with a marketing campaign for the region’s famed Hida beef.

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42.8

Percent of fires in the aftermath of the March 11 quake that were the direct result of tsunami, according to the Japan Association for Fire Science and Engineering

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

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 03

Upfront

door to door

dating game

love light

When Flower Kitchen of Porters opened recently and we checked out the options, we weren’t quite sure if it was a flower shop, a café or both. With names including chocolat, mille feuille, macaron and green tea, it's no wonder we were confused. But these are floral arrangements, not sweets. Priced according to size, from the pint-sized “short” (¥2,000) to the show-her-exactly-how-muchyou-love-her “vente2” (¥10,000 plus delivery), these fashionable bouquets can be delivered in under two hours within a 4.5km radius of their Roppongi location.

And they’ll send you a snapshot of the finished item so you will know exactly what it will look like when handed over to the happy recipient. If you’re passing through Roppongi station on a Monday, shop staff hand out free flowers to passersby—perfect for treating a case of the Mondays. http://flower-kitchen.com

Those who still believe in love—or at the very least virtual romance—will want to check out Voltage Inc’s dating simulation game Our Two Bedroom Story: Living with a Guy from Work!?, now available in English. As with any other otome (girly) game, this one is aimed at women and the goal is to choose a male character to build a romantic relationship with. This one is set in the office. Would you choose the pushy boss, the cool coworker, or the all-around nice guy? If potential worktime sekuhara isn’t your gig, the company also offers Class Trip Crush, My Forged Wedding and 10 Days with My Devil. The app and first chapters are free for Android and iPhone, each full story can be unlocked for ¥350. http://meturl.com/2bedroom

Since its launch in 2010, the “Love is…” event has filled Ebisu Garden Place and participating shops and restaurants with hundreds of candles every month on the night of a full moon, bringing lovers together for a moment of quiet reflection. Not everyone can make it over to Ebisu, however, or may not want to share precious moments out in the freezing cold of a February night. For that purpose, interior goods maker Birthday Bar has created a candy votive (¥1,470) in collaboration with notable candle makers Kameyama. Resembling a jar of heart-shaped candies, it looks good enough to eat.

The candle creates a soothing strawberry aroma that fills the room. Light up, snuggle up close and enjoy the glow of a romantic night in. Or, if you’d prefer to join the event, the next one is on February 14 (http://loveis-candle.jp/). http://meturl.com/candycandle

VALENTINE VOICES

Japanese take to the net to share their triumphs, defeats and screw ups on February 14 of years past

unclear on the concept

“ bicultural ties

“

Since it was close to our 200 day anniversary, a bouquet of 200 roses was delivered to my family home.” —Japanese woman in her 20s dating a Korean man “Getting a single red rose was wonderful.” —20-something woman dating a Swedish man “He confessed his feelings and then kissed me on the street.” —Japanese woman in her 20s dating an Irish man

“When I gave him chocolate, I got some sexy lingerie in return” —“Around 40” Japanese woman dating an American man Source: www.lovecosmetic.jp

I used to think that Valentine’s Day was a national holiday, and I was getting ready for a day off.” —@ramyuxu

“I’m not really sure why, but one year on Valentine’s Day, I took my date to the Meguro Parasitological Museum.” —@ hz2467

heart day heartbreak

“

It was our first Valentine’s Day together and we rented a car to drive out to the ocean. In that romantic atmosphere, I handed over my homemade chocolate. My boyfriend was so happy he popped one into his mouth. Then there was a loud crunch and his face turned pale. Because of the cold, the chocolate had hardened and he lost a filling!” —25-yearold Japanese woman “I made a heart-shaped chocolate for my boyfriend who worked at the same company and then accidentally gave it to another coworker. Because we kept our relationship a secret I couldn’t set things straight and the accidental recipient barraged me with emails and visits to my desk to ask me out.” —25-year-old Japanese woman

“Even though there is the rule that you are supposed to give three times the amount you received on Valentine’s Day, I’ve had someone say, ‘This isn’t handmade, but it’s the thought that counts’ and then hand me cash. Am I the only one this has happened to?” —@Y510827

“In junior high, I wanted to give a boy I liked some chocolate, but when I reached the door outside his house, I couldn’t bring up the courage to hand it to him directly and just popped it in the post box. When I asked about it the next day he said, “That was from you? I didn’t know where it came from and was too scared to eat it, so I just threw it away'.” —22-year-old Japanese woman

“Years ago, before my husband and I started dating, I wanted to give him some chocolate for Valentine’s Day and gave him some I had around the house. He checked the expiration date right in front of me and found it was already two months past. When I apologized and asked for it back, he said, ‘it doesn’t matter, I’ll eat it anyway’.”

—@mikan_y Source: http://woman.mynavi.jp

“Since there are more men than women at my company, one year all the female employees decided it just wasn’t fair and pledged that no one would buy any chocolates for the guys. But they all had second thoughts, and when the day came I was the only one with nothing to give.

I had to run to the convenience store during my lunch break.” —28-year-old Japanese woman Source: http://woman.mynavi.jp

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 05

Feature

How to get the best from Tokyo’s hair salons

By The Editors

U

nless your Japanese is stellar or you move in the right circles, it can be daunting to pick out a hair salon in the bright lights of this big city. With many shop fronts looking more like nightclubs and lounges than hair salons, Blade Runner-esque fashion and language and cultural barriers to navigate, many people are hesitant to head in. We sent our editor-in-chief and editorial assistant out to ask some questions—and get them styled right.

BRING A PHOTO They may not be able to make you look just like Brad Pitt or Beyoncé in that photo you like, but they can certainly get an idea of the style that you are after.

This is great not only for the non-Japanese speakers (showing and pointing is a great communication tool anywhere), but for anybody wanting to give an idea of what they’d like. They may not be able to do it, but they can help.

“When talking with clients,” says Kiyoko Matsuzawa of Nepenji Hair Salon in Ebisu, “it’s important to talk about the shape of their face and head. They may want a cut that doesn’t flatter their features. Any good salon will make recommendations and suggest what’s good for you.”

DON’T BE SHY If a salon has caught your eye, whether by the style of cuts featured on their posters or it just looks like a place you’d go to—walk in. They may not speak English, but chances are someone there can. You can also find out their prices to compare with others.

THE PRICE The bottom line for many people, but Tokyo comes with the stigma that everything is expensive. Sure ,in any city you can spend as much as you want, but the idea that everything in the city is overly priced is a fallacy. Matsuzawa was surprised when we mentioned this as one of our reader comments.

“Really? I think New York City is more expensive.

The average cut seemed to be about $150 when I lived there. Most of the salons [like us] here in Tokyo are about ¥8,000.”

06 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

PHOTOS BY KOHJI SHIIKI, SHOT AT NEPENJI HAIR SALON IN EBISU

STYLIN’ TIPS PROBLEM AREAS

Many people experience changes in the quality of their hair when they move to another country, and many factors are involved—such as changes in environment, water hardness, stress and differences in product ingredients. While it requires adjustment to your regime, Matsuzawa has some tips to make the change smoother.

“I recommend ‘no poo’ (non-use of commercial shampoos) to almost everyone, especially those with curly or wavy hair. It helps offset the chemicals we meet in daily life and doesn’t create build up or strip your hair of essential oils.”

Using a humidifier at home helps reduce damage and frizziness in winter, while in summer you’ll want to go as “clean” as possible: don’t wash your hair too often, be sure to use a good conditioner and consider using a hair treatment or getting a “head spa” once a week. As you reduce shampooing, the rate of sebum production will actually decrease, as will the need to wash your hair. It may take anywhere from two to six weeks— or even up to a year—before it adjusts completely, but it can be worth the effort, for both your health and your wallet. Note that if you use a lot of product, you should wash more often to remove this.

At the very least, says Yoshiko Morimoto of Afrodita Hair Salon in Yokohama, switch to a sulfate-free shampoo. Look for 硫酸Naフリー (ryusan Na free) or ノンシリコーン (non-silicone) on the back of the bottle.

Curly girls (and boys) should let their hair air dry if possible or use a diffuser on their hair dryer. Diffusers are sold separately in Japan and it can often be difficult to find one that fits your particular model. Here, you can again consult with your hairdresser and they can order one for you, says Matsuzawa.

HAIR DYES The amount of peroxide, as well as the shade selection, differs in Japan from many other countries.

Getting your hair color “just right” is a difficult process (even back home) so be sure to let your hairdresser know the good and bad points of

your last coloring experience. (It didn’t last long enough, it would be great to try a shade or two darker, etc…) Both Morimoto and Matsuzawa import dyes for use with their foreign customers.

SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER Many readers have expressed concern over Japanese shampoo not suiting their hair. Morimoto explains that the amount of moisturizer is different here compared with the West. Japanese consumers tend to want to f latten their hair, while shampoos in the U.S. and Europe tend to add more volume.

A lt hough shipping it over yourself of ten seems the most practical solution, ask your hairdresser—they may be able to do it and can recommend one that suits you best. Other expats have shared that to save money (and effort), they use the above mentioned “no poo” method, but make it at home, using baking soda and apple cider vinegar, or honey. The former can be a bit pungent, so mixing in some essential oils is key.

Yet others have experienced positive results with Wawaza.com’s funori seaweed cleanser, coupled with tsubaki (camellia) oil.

IN GENERAL Hairdressers with licenses issued by the Japanese government may hold a certain standard here, but may not have the experience or confidence to deal with the variety of foreigners’ hair,” says Morimoto. She also emphasizes the importance of knowing your hair, and clear communication with your stylist.

It’s better to stay away from Japanese hair extensions as they may cause a significant amount of damage to your hair.

GLOSSARY • この写真みたいな髪型にして ください。Kono shashin mitai na kamigata ni shite kudasai.

(Please cut a similar style to this photo.)

•毛先をちょっと切るだけにし てください。Kesaki o chotto k ir u d a k e ni s hit e k u d asai. (Just a little off the ends, please.)

• 少しだけすいてもらえますか？ Sukoshi dake suite morae masu ka? (Can you thin it out just a little bit, please?)

• 七三にしてください。 Shichi-san ni shite kudasai. (Give me a 70/30, i.e. parted more to one side.)

• 前髪を作ってください。 Mae-gami o tsukutte kudasai.

(Please give me bangs/fringe.)

• トリム torimu (trim...d’uh) • カット katto (cut) •レイヤード le-ya-do (layered) • モテ髪 motegami (haircut

that’ll make you popular with the opposite sex) • 五分刈り gobugari (buzzcut, 9mm) • 三分刈り sanbugari (buzzcut, 7mm) • おかっぱボッブ okappa bob (Bob with bangs Think Amélie Poulain) • 坊ちゃん刈り bocchangari (Bowl haircut—ever y child’s nightmare)

Want more hairstyle help in Tokyo? Visit the following English-speaking salons AFRODITA Yokohama

AT THE BARBERSHOP Men. We get it. No muss, no fuss and as little collateral damage to the wallet as possible.

Here’s where to go for a ¥1,000 ’do.

QB House locations are near or in train stations across the country and operate on the simple concept of 10 minutes for a single Noguchi note. www.qbhouse.co.jp S Cut is another cut-rate chain that promises “just cuts” for ¥1,000. www.scut1000.jp Eco’s Cut with branches in Yoyogi and Oyama, have vending machines in front where you buy a ticket for your cut. www.eco-cut.jp Family Cut 1000 is a chain with the price right in the name. www.cut1000-job.info Kamikiri Dokoro not only offers ¥1,000 cuts, but the Oimachi location also has an onsen, so you can relax in a hot bath after your cut. www. kamikiridokoro.co.jp/ooimachi.html

WEBSITE SPECIAL OFFER ▶▶ Metropolis readers who bring this ad for a cut or color receive our new split end repair treatment from Brazilian Blowout for only ¥2,100 (reg ¥3,150) ▶▶ Valid until March 31, 2014

H

air stylist Yoshiko Morimoto is on a mission to bring the high-level of style and service available in Beverly Hills to Japan, but offered in English and without the huge fees charged by salons in the most exclusive parts of Tokyo. She has the experience, having trained at Vidal Sassoon in London and at top salons in New York and LA—where clientele included Hollywood entertainers and models—so she knows how to work with Western hair. On her return to Japan in 2001, Morimoto opened Afrodita near Yokohama station.

Now, she has clients who travel from Saitama, Chiba and Yokosuka just to get styled. Her friendly international staff all speak English plus other languages from across the globe. Afrodita salon even stocks exclusive American hair care brand Redken. Follow the photos of her latest cuts on Facebook at "Afrodita Yokohama Hair Salon."

1F, 2-108-1 Sengencho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama 045-311-0139 Wed-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon-Tue Yokohama www.yokohamahairsalon.com

Facebook: Yokohama Hair Salon

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 07

Hair Special

A little off the top or a complete style makeover?

DUDE Shimokitazawa

WEBSITE SPECIAL OFFER ▶▶ Free consultation in English for Metropolis readers

A

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

GOLD SALON Azabu-Juban

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

WEBSITE SPECIAL OFFER ▶▶ 20% off the total service bill for new clients on their first visit

G

old Salon’s team of hair stylists have spent years honing their skills under the direction of salon director Howard Regner, and can work with all manner of hair types to provide the level of service their discerning clients demand. Over 98 percent of clientele are foreign ex-pats. The team’s strength lies in the ability to communicate with clients to gain a thorough understanding of each individual’s desired look before picking up any tools. All staff adhere to the “Sticking to the Brief” policy, which means whatever the guest has said during the consultation stage will be followed to the letter. If your hair starts to behave in an unexpected way, your stylist will stop and consult with you again in fluent English. For Tokyo’s best crafted haircuts, beautiful, natural looking hair colours and the sleekest, smoothest Brazilian Keratin Treatments, the only choice is Gold.

HAYATO Roppongi

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

WEBSITE SPECIAL OFFER Until the end of March, first-time visitors receive: ▶▶ Cut & color: ¥9,800 (reg. ¥14,000) ▶▶ Cut & full color: ¥12,250 (normally ¥17,500) ▶▶ Cut & perm: ¥9,800 (reg. ¥14,000) ▶▶ Cut & digital perm: ¥11,900 (reg. ¥17,000) ▶▶ Cut & treatment: ¥7,350 (reg. ¥10,500) Services include shiatsu massage, shampoo and blow dry

H

ayato Salon just celebrated its second anniversary at its new Roppongi location after moving from Omotesando. It was first established in 1994 in New York City before moving to London. Currently, there are now branches in the three most sophisticated hairstyling cities of the world. Hayato guarantees absolute satisfaction for all of its customers. Each team member is bilingual and all do their very best to create a relaxing, comfortable and classy environment. The stylists are all experts, especially at handling the varied hair types of foreigners. The reason for their expertise is that the founder Hayato himself 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 where they learn to speak English. When they debut as a hairstylist at Hayato Tokyo, they are more than ready to serve you.

08 ● SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

206 The Roppongi Tokyo Plaza, 3-7-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku

03-5574-8844 Mon & Wed-Sat & hols 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm, closed Tue Roppongi www.hayatosalons.com

Tokyo’s hair salons can maintain your mane or create a whole new look!

WEBSITE

KENJI HAIRSTYLIST Azabu-Juban

SPECIAL OFFERS PHOTO BY CAROLINE + JAYDEN: WWW.WOODNOTEPHOTOGRAPHY.NET/

K

enji Suzuki is one of the many talented stylists who have come together at the Bondz Salon in Azabu-Juban, where the relaxed and boutique-like atmosphere makes you feel right at home. He has held high-profile positions in the international beauty industry for over 20 years and having lived in New York for most of them, he is a haircut specialist that is fluent in English. Suzuki was a top stylist at the Antonio Prieto Salon in the Chelsea district and worked for many big fashion shows and photo shoots. Currently, he counsels foreign clients here in Tokyo to provide them with the best personal service they can get in Japan. His motto? “To not only create a client’s hairstyle, but to create their lifestyle.” He believes in working with the client to find a style that not only follows trends, but also brings out their own personal beauty. Both men and women are welcome.

SIN DEN Omotesando

▶▶ Mention Metropolis and first-time customers receive 20% off all services ▶▶ Pre-book your next appointment and receive 10% off your next cut (20% if you return within four weeks)

4F, 1-8-13 Azabu-Juban,Minato-ku 080-1307-4973 contact@kenji-hairstylist.com Tue-Fri 11am-8pm; Sat-Sun 10am-7pm; closed Mon Azabu-Juban www.kenji-hairstylist.com

WEBSITE SPECIAL OFFERS ▶▶ Mention Metropolis and receive 20% off hair services until March 31 ▶▶ Shellac manicure for ¥4,500 or pedicure for ¥6,500 (first -time visitors only)

F

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2F YS Bldg, 2-1-21 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku 03-6408-6132 Tue-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun & hols 10am-7pm, closed Mon Hiroo or Roppongi www.vipcreativehair.jp

#1037 ● WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP ● 09

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

HOTEI music

Rock icon won’t rest on Japan successes

By Dan Grunebaum

I

t’s the morning after his long-anticipated New York gig, and Tomoyasu Hotei seems relaxed in a lounge at a Midtown hotel.

Though he’s moved to London and is leaping into international markets, the guitarist has reason to feel self-assured. He’s coming off two sold-out headlining gigs in London and New York, which have effectively served as his worldwide coming-out party.

“I think I’m the man to do the Olympics,” Hotei answers confidently when asked what kind of music would work for the 2020 Tokyo opening ceremony.

“The Olympics should begin with something powerful and Oriental-feeling,” the lanky rocker adds. “Of course they could use Hatsune Miku—it’s great technology— but it’s a bit cold and unemotional.”

Hotei is not the first Japanese cultural figure to express alarm about the rush to embrace virtual idols and the like under the banner of Cool Japan. “I’m a bit worried,” he confesses. “It’s all a bit too cute. It’s great for what it is, but Japanese culture is deeper than that.”

Hotei emerged in the ’80s as the explosive guitarist for multi-platimum group Boøwy at a time when Japan’s charts had more room for muscular rock ‘n’ roll.

He’s a guitar hero of the old school, and at New York’s Highline Ballroom Hotei wields his “axe” like he’s got some serious wood-chopping to do, throttling the neck to release bent high notes and windmilling the strings to underline the occasional power chord.

Surrounding Hotei is a crack international cast of supporting musicians. The music draws on his millionselling solo career, but crests on the song for which Hotei is best known abroad—“Battle Without Honor Or Humanity” from the Kill Bill: Vol. 1 soundtrack.

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“I originally wrote the music for a Japanese yakuza movie for which I was music director,” he explains.

“When the offer came, everyone said you shouldn’t do a yakuza movie because of the bad associations. But the director was good and I felt it would work with my music.

Quentin Tarentino loved that movie and contacted my management. I also worked with Terry Gilliam on Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. I’m a lucky guy.”

With his taste for international collaboration whetted, Hotei’s move abroad has been incubating for a while.

But it’s the flowering, it seems, of a seed planted in his mind by his Korean father. “My dad would come to my room and spin the globe,” he recalls about his childhood in Gunma. “He’d say, ‘Hey Tomochan, the world is big.

You’re now here, but in the future you should see the whole world.’ So I dreamed of using my guitar as a passport to see the planet.”

Living abroad has given Hotei perspectives on how to best present Japanese culture to a Western audience.

“You can find a lot of strange sushi here or in London, for example, but that is sushi for the world. So we should balance what Oriental means outside of Japan with what it means inside of Japan. Now I see this more clearly.”

Hotei deliberately chose Japanese musicians for his international band in order to retain an Eastern flavor.

I DON’T PLAY SHAMISEN, BUT I FEEL DEEP INSIDE I HAVE SOMETHING TRADITIONALLY JAPANESE… SO ABROAD, I FEEL MORE CONSCIOUS OF MY IDENTITY.” —Hotei M. “I don’t play shamisen, but I feel deep inside I have something traditionally Japanese. For example, Kill Bill, somehow it came out Oriental even though I didn’t intend it that way. So abroad, I feel more conscious of my identity.”

Along with artists such as Yoko Ono and Ryuichi Sakamoto (who is in the audience at Hotei’s show) in New York, and Damo Suzuki in Berlin, Hotei is part a growing coterie of Japanese rock elder statesmen who choose to live abroad.

It’s not that there aren’t young Japanese bands based overseas right now, but they come from a generation of Japanese that didn’t experience rock as a subversive Western import, and perhaps don’t find it to be as much of a revelation.

art THE CUTE AND THE CURIOUS A kawaii history lesson at the Yamatane Museum

By Annabel James

W

COURTESY YAMATANE MUSEUM OF ART.

Hotei grew up on David Bowie and Talking Heads, and bemoans the lack of interest many young Japanese musicians seem to have in Western rock. “Japan has the largest CD market in the world, so most artists are satisfied with the domestic market. I want to say to young Japanese artists that they need to challenge themselves more. I think they are too satisfied.”

Hotei grants that touring overseas can be hard. “Even major Japanese artists have told me it’s not worth the effort, but I think it’s important to experience different markets and scenes,” he says. “And it’s interesting to me to see how diverse audiences receive my music.”

Hotei’s current London plans are simply have fun and gig. And he does concede the benefits of Japanese organization when it comes to doing shows. But for now, he wouldn’t be any other place than England.

“Everything is on time and perfect in Tokyo,” Hotei admits. “Overseas can be frustrating— but I’m really enjoying life in London.” http://hotei.com

1962 Tomoyasu Hotei born in Gunma 1981 Boøwy launch as six-member band, releasing six albums, selling millions of records 1988 Solo album Guitarhythm, recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London 1988 Hotei and vocalist Koji Kikkawa unite to form duo Complex, releasing two no. 1 albums 1994 UNESCO World Heritage 10 Year Event with Bob Dylan and more 1996 Onstage with David Bowie at the Nippon Budokan 1996 Guitarist at Atlanta Olympics Closing Ceremony 1996 Composes songs for Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas 1998 Premier of the film SFSamurai Fiction, featuring Hotei as actor and soundtrack composer 1999 June, Supersonic Generation album is released globally in 15 countries 2003 Tarantino uses Hotei’s song for the film Kill Bill: Vol. 1 2004 Instrumental album Electric Samurai 2010 Performs with Roxy Music at Fuji Rock Festival 2011 “Complex: Japan, One Heart” at Tokyo Dome sells out 100,000 tickets to benefit victims of Great East Japan Earthquake 2012 30-Year Anniversary Tour and 50th birthday 2012 Hotei moves to London 2013 Sold-out concerts in London and NY

hen was the last time you thought seriously a b o ut t h e a e s t h e t i c roots of Pikachu?

If this sounds ridiculous, maybe that’s because kawaii—the subject of the current exhibition at Hiroo’s Yamatane Museum of Art—fundamentally is. Yet this show is an excitingly original chance to survey in detail the history of an idea that many would only see as a modern Japanese phenomenon.

The love of what is cute, tiny, a little bit weak (and a little bit crazy) all at once may not, in fact, be such a 21st century thing. We learn in the show that the Heian period Pillow Book (circa A.D. 1000), a famous collection of musings by a court aristocrat, included a list of “Adorable Things,” naming babies and young Girls Folding Paper Cranes. Uemura Shoen sparrows. The Yamatane is one of (1875-1949), circa 1940. Color on silk. the best museums in Japan in its collection of 20th century nihonga and contains substantial pieces by older Edo period artists—making this a rare chance for a deep, historical survey of the culture of cute.

If there is one thing that lets this exhibition down, it is the choice of organizing themes, particularly at the show’s start. Why begin exploring a topic with so much potential psychological, societal and broader cultural complexity to be probed with a section entitled “Depictions of Children.” In apparently deadpan sincerity, the description informs us that children have long been considered kawaii—which must be the same virtually everywhere you go.

The following section, “A Paradise of Adorable Animals,” does little to improve the situation given the eminent universality of the fact that animals can be cute. Rather than inviting close scrutiny of how—or if—such images of cuteness have altered with history, the blanket-style headings encourage us to view the works in an unhelpfully generalized way.

However, within this structural dynamic some truly varied and interesting pieces are there, and by some of Japan’s finest artists. The high point of the show comes near the end in “Tiny, Dreamy and Humorous: What’s ‘Kawaii’?” that breaks out from merely categorizing subject matter into the actual mentality behind this fascinating word.

In a piece like Uemura Shoen’s Girls Folding Paper Cranes, for example, two figures are poised with impossibly dainty aplomb in the middle of a game. One is reduced to a tiny size compared to her companion, and the billowing shapes of their kimono make them seem marshmallow-like against the rich, deep space of the folding screen.

Shoen has taken a scene of courtly elegance and dressed it up in pastel overload: the women become two puff-shaped toys in the artist’s own organizational game.

It’s exciting to think in this way that some of the quirky—or even crazy—designs of Kitty-chan, Pikachu and friends could find their origin in the dry, witty line of a nihonga ink artist. Even further, the exhibition suggests that broader scenes of daily life could themselves be imbued with the roots of what is today called kawaii.

It’s in the way of rendering these totally quotidian scenes emphasizing the vast humor within their small details—the tilt of a head, the delicate padding of a figure's walk in a piece like Itou Jakuchu's Fushimi Dolls—that we can perhaps trace the roots of some of the exploding energies of modern day kawaii forms. How far is it from this quick-stepping, quirky satire of gesture to the acrobatic dances of AKB48 or the bubble hearts flying all over the place in purikura machines?

Thanks to the more conceptual spin of this final section, the richness of the whole show’s varied ancestors to modern kawaii is not lost. This remains a fascinating collection of master works by some of Japan’s most prominent artists. If it only had some more original curation towards the beginning, and perhaps an absolutely contemporary component for comparison—where is Takashi Murakami?—it would be much stronger. Nonetheless, this is an important show for anyone who wants to understand the roots of a huge portion of Japan’s visual landscape today.

“Jakuchu’s Adorability and Shoen’s Beauty: ‘Kawaii’ in Japanese Art” at Yamatane Museum of Art, until Mar 2. See exhibition listings (Shibuya) for details.

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 11

Arts & Entertainment games

COMMUTER GAMER Why be productive on the way to and from work?

By Adam Bolton

BADLAND

Frogmind, ¥400 (i P a d , i Ph o n e , i P o d To u c h , Android, BlackBerry, Android) Apple's G a m e of T he Ye a r 2013 for iPad, Badland can be summed up in three words: entertaining, intense, rewarding. Sporting only 20 levels at first, it was increased to a final level count of 80—and at entirely no additional cost.

The game itself has a more interpretive story, focusing rather on the unique levels and their design to set the scene in its very organic and later, heavily industrialized environments.

Played as a left-to-right side-crolling action adventure game with simple yet highly effective one-touch controls, you must guide a delicate fumbling and flapping little creature to the vacuum-like teleporter at the end of each stage. Simple enough in explanation, but far more challenging in execution. The levels themselves are packed with numerous and inventive deathtraps from simple spikes and obstacles, to churning buzz saw blades and chomping pistons.

T he creatu re i n que st ion has on ly one l i fe , but with that, perhaps the most important game mechanic comes into play: cloning. Though there are many power ups that are required to be collected throughout each level (ranging from speed increase and decrease, shrinking and enlarging, stickiness and bounce) the cloning power up adds a morbid level of survivability that demonstrates the game's dark sense of humor perfectly. Pick up that cluster, power up and let the others take the fall. As long as one creature makes it out alive, the game continues, however the game often scores you on how many little critters survive. If anything, Badland is very reminiscent of the 90s classic, Lemmings, where group survival is key and reaching the end of each level feels like real success.

This game is guaranteed to have people either side of you, peeking over your shoulders as you play.

THE ROOM & THE ROOM 2

T

here’s more to mobile gaming than Candy Crush. If you’ve got more than ten minutes on your daily train trip, then you have plenty of time play the new crop of tablet and phone diversions. Our commuter gamer chooses three of his favorites.

ICYCLE: ON THIN ICE Damp Gnat Studios, ¥100 (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch) Are you cold? Do you feel a little chilly in Tokyo’s brisk winter weather? Well, allow me to put things in perspective for you. Icycle stars Dennis, an unfortunate man on an unfortunate mission. His quest? To cycle across a frozen tundra on a kiddie bike wearing nothing but a wool hat and a worried expression, seeking his frosty love.

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Damp Gnat Studios’ clean, vectored design and Monty Python-esque humor bring poor Dennis' struggle to life as he pedals his way squeakily across each cleverly designed and perilous situation. The world has now been covered in a thick layer of ice, providing unique and thrilling platform elements while almost appearing alive and organic themselves. The unique levels, the bizarreness of Dennis' quest and the brilliant yet minimalist sound design make this a no-brainer insta-buy. Though the levels are few (twenty, plus two bonus levels) the replayability is sizable, with three additional missions that vary per level and a host of collectables and upgrades to find, this is a game well suited to quick bursts of gameplay while offering a bright level of simple humor that will cheer anyone's mood.

Fireproof Studios, ¥100 & ¥400 (iPhone, iPad) Not to be confused with the world's worst movie and unfortunate sequel (“You’re tearing me apart Lisaaaa!”), The Room games are very close to my heart as the best—and most rewarding—puzzle games to ever grace the AppStore. It would be unfair to review the most recent game without including the first, as both stand on their own as perfect examples of intelligent level design and labors of love for the developers.

In both games, the player is tasked with discovering how to open a certain box within a room. The boxes themselves are marvelous and impossible contraptions where a keen eye and logical thought are the most valuable tools at your disposal. With the assistance of a special eyepiece, you must inspect, prod, rotate and reveal all of the secrets and hidden mechanisms that the devices conceal, often opening up parts of the machine to an almost Tardis-like space inside. Along the way are many letters addressed to the player written by the mysterious “A.S.,” a previous user of the boxes, offering small insights to the growing mythos within this most cryptic of stories.

This is a must for all mystery and logic lovers out there.

AGENDA COURTESY OF DBS

COURTESY OF FRENCH INSTITUTE © CTIBOR B

© TSUKASA AOKI

clubbing

concert

stage

� Michael West, aka Congo Natty, aka Rebel MC, is not only a producer, but a singer and toaster of renown. Unlike most producers in the jungle/drum ‘n’ bass/dubstep tradition, he’s the complete package. West arrives with his latest, Jungle Revolution (out on Beat in Japan), a lively outing in which he makes explicit the musical path from dubstep back to jungle, dub and finally roots reggae. West debuted two decades ago and has long been viewed as one of the pioneers of UK bass music—at Unit he’ll be joined by Congo Dubz and a slew of worthy locals. Dan Grunebaum Unit, Feb 15. See clubbing listings for details.

� Buddhist chants, or shomyo, have long been recognized for their ability to calm, which has made them fodder for composers of ambient electronic music. But Buddhist chants in Japan, imported a millennium ago from India, also provide the foundation for much traditional Japanese music.

Shomyo no Kai brings this practice out of the monastery and into the consciousness of the public. The group’s bewitching performances featuring dozens of monks in robes, incense wafting in the air, are finding a wider audience: they debut in North America next month. DG Spiral Hall, Feb 24-25. See concert listings (jazz/ world) for details.

� The best event for emerging dance and theater in Japan is the annual Performing Arts Meeting (confusingly still called TPAM after its move from Tokyo to Yokohama). Over a week, visitors can take in a huge swath of performances, from little-known all-women group Mademoiselle Cinema, who seek “to visually express the emotional lives of women today,” to well-known contemporary dancers Kaiji Moriyama and Un Yamada. From abroad are outfits including Belgian dance-theater group Peeping Tom and “La chorale de l'Encyclopédie de la parole,” an innovative spoken word ensemble from France.DG Kanagawa Arts Theatre, Feb 8-16. See other event listings for details.

fest

tango

party

� Switzerland is not only about cheese and chocolate. You can find out just what the alpine country has to offer as Swissdays comes to Roppongi Hills.

Marking the 150th anniversary of Swiss-Japanese relations, the three-day festival includes musical performances by Eliana Burki & iAlpinisti(pictured), who applies the iconic instrument the alphorn to modern jazz and pop, and Enzian, a yodelling ensemble made up entirely of Japanese members.

The “Top of Europe” installation will give visitors a virtual trip from Tokyo to the top of the Jungfrau mountain as well as demonstrations of schwingen, traditional Swiss wrestling that has parallels with sumo. And yes, the country’s most well-known exports will be there, with food stalls selling gooey raclette cheese and hot chocolate aplenty.

Roppongi Hills Arena, Feb 6-9. See other event listings for details.

� Musician brings the passionate sounds of Buenos Aires to Tokyo with a series of events featuring tango and milonga music this month.

The pianist plays with violinist Ayuko Seo and guitarist Andres Tata Duarte on Cafe y Libros, accompanying live sketch art by Hernesto Bressan. “The atmosphere created by t he music and the projected sketches will lead the audience into a unique world,” Sacco says. The pianist explains that she often plays with different lineups since it is difficult to work out schedules with other musicians, especially bandoneonists. She’ll team up with her own trio for shows at the appropriately-name Tango City in Shibuya and Cul-de-Sac in Shinagawa.

Cafe y Libros, Feb 8; Cul-de-Sac, Feb 15; Tango City, Feb 16. See concert listings (jazz/world) for details.

� Valentine’s Day is the day of love. Although most people take this to mean romantic love, it can also mean love for all humanity. Tokyobased international NGO Human Rights Now invites you to take a moment to consider the global struggle for human rights at their charity cocktail party on February 12 at Fiat’s event space in Aoyama. The event is an opportunity to learn about the groups activities as well as network with other people interested in human rights over refreshments from macrobiotic restaurant Heaven’s K itchen. Proceeds w ill go to the group’s programs supporting women’s rights act iv ists around t he world and ot her activities.

Fiat the Space, Feb 12. See community listings for details.

CONGO NATTY

SWISSDAYS

SHOMYO

KAORI SACCO

Encyclopédie de la parole / Joris Lacoste

TPAM IN YOKOHAMA

LOVE & HUMAN RIGHTS

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 13

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Listings

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS

ARTIFACT

All Off

With Roach, Angry Frog Rebirth and others. Feb 23, 5pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door) +1d. Unit. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www. diskgarage.com/getticket

Home Made Kazoku TATE BRITAIN, LONDON

William Dyce, Pegwell Bay, Kent—a Recollection of October 5th 1858, oil on canvas, 1858-60

Pre-Raphaelites: Victorian Avant-Garde Anyone who has visited the Tate Gallery in London will have already seen many of the works now on display 52 floors above Roppongi. And yet the Mori Arts Center Gallery does something the British institution has never done—grouping together over 70 works, it presents a cohesive overview of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Founded in 1848 by William Holman Hunt, John Everett Millais and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, the PRB rejected the mechanical approach to painting exemplified by Raphael and his successors. The English subtitle of the exhibition is “Victorian Avant-Garde,” lest contemporary audiences forget that the trio’s devotion to nature and a natural approach scandalized the art world of the day. The centerpiece of the show is Ophelia by Millais, who spent so long precisely capturing the flora of the Hogsmill River that he had to build a shed to keep out the winter wind.

The group did not reject the birth of photography as a fad, but rather saw it as an impetus to strive for higher realism in their landscape work. William Dyce’s Pegwell Bay, Kent—a Recollection of October 5th 1858 is a marvel of photographic detail that demands close viewing. The PBR were the rock stars of their day, and one wall display charts their complex love triangles and flings with their models, many of whom became their mistresses, wives and fellow artists. As is the problem with many major exhibits in Tokyo, the information is presented only in Japanese—especially regrettable for a show originating from British museum. Kevin Mcgue Until Apr 6, ¥500-1,500. Mori Arts Center Gallery. 52F Roppongi Hills Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.roppongihills.com/art/macg

Concerts POPULAR The Sexbots

US art pop sensation.

Feb 7, 6pm, ¥2,000 (adv)/ ¥2,300(door) +1d. Motion.

Nearest stn: Shinjuku. http:// motion-web.jp

The Lumineers

Folk rock from Denver. Feb 8, 6pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d.

Shibuya-AX. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www.smash-jpn. com

Shaggy

Boombastic Jamaican singer.

Feb 8, 2:15 & 6pm, ¥8,400 (adv). Stellar Ball. Nearest stn: Shinagawa. Tel: 03-5421-1111. www.l-tike.com

Scream Out Fest

The Devil Wears Prada, Her Name in Blood and others.

Feb 9, 4:30pm, ¥6,500 (adv)/ ¥7,500 (door) +1d. Studio Coast. Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba.

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

The Devil Wears Prada

American metalcore. Feb 10, 7pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

Periphery

With Cyclamen and Hammerhead Shark. Feb 11, 6pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. Club Asia. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

Punisher's Night

Totalfat, Dustbox and Knock Out Monkey. Feb 11, 6pm, ¥3,500 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast.

Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. meturl. com/punisher2014

Merengue

Hip hop trio. Feb 24, 7pm, ¥4,800 (adv) +1d. Heaven's Rock Saitama Shintoshin.

Nearest stn: SaitamaShintoshin. Tel: 048-858-7251. www.red-hot.ne.jp

Foals

UK indie rock. Feb 25, 7pm, ¥6,300 (adv) +1d. Ex Theater Roppongi. Nearest stn: Roppongi or Nogizaka.

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

Nine Inch Nails

Industrial rock gods. Feb 25, 7pm; Feb 26, 7pm, ¥9,000 (adv) +1d. Studio Coast.

Nearest stn: Shin-Kiba. Tel: 03-3499-6669. http://meturl. com/nin2014

The Rolling Stones

Aging rockers still rollin'.

Feb 26, Mar 4 & 6, 6:30pm, ¥14,000-80,000. Tokyo Dome.

Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 0570-02-9581. http://meturl. com/rollingtix2014

Eric Clapton

Master of the Stratocaster. Feb 23, 5pm, ¥11,000-12,000 (adv).

Yokohama Arena. Nearest stn: Shin-Yokohama. Tel: 03-34025999. www.udo.co.jp

American post-hardcore band from Temecula. Feb 17, 7pm, ¥6,300 (adv) +1d.

Liquidroom. Nearest stn: Ebisu.

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

Eric Clapton

Master of the Stratocaster.

Feb 18-21 & 28, 7pm, ¥11,00012,000 (adv). Nippon Budokan.

Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 03-3402-5999. www.udo.co.jp

Olly Murs

English X Factor runner-up.

Feb 18, 7pm, ¥5,800 (adv) +1d.

Akasaka Blitz. Nearest stn: Akasaka. http://meturl.com/ olly2014

BEAST

with guest The Resistance.

Mar 18, 7pm, ¥7,000 (adv) +1d.

O-East. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

JAZZ/WORLD Keziah Jones

Nigerian blue-funk rhythms.

Feb 6, 7 & 9:30pm; Feb 7, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥6,500-8,500.

Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboardlive.com

The Skatalites

Ska band from Jamaica. Feb 7, 7 & 9:30pm; Feb 8-9, 5 & 8pm, ¥7,350. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.bluenote. co.jp

Buenos Aires

Collaboration of live music performed by Kaori Sacco and others, and sketching. Feb 8, 8 & 9pm, ¥2,500. Cafe y Libros.

2-20-4 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku.

Nearest stn: Meguro. Tel: 03-3491-4460. http://meturl. com/buenoevent

Jon Cowherd's Mercy Project

Four-piece alt-rock. Feb 21, 7pm, ¥3,000 (adv) +1d. Liquidroom.

Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-34446751. www.smash-jpn.com

Featuring Brian Blade, Steve Cardenas and John Patitucci.

Until-Feb 12. various times, ¥8,400-10,500. Cotton Club.

Nearest stn: Tokyo. www. cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Mix Speaker's, Inc

Soil & Pimp Sessions

The Novembers

Industrial rock meets cosplay critters. Feb 22, 6pm, ¥4,860 (adv) +1d. Akasaka Blitz.

Nearest stn: Akasaka. www. diskgarage.com

Tuba & Drum Overload Night

Jazz, rock and craziness. Feb 13, 7:30pm, ¥2,300 (adv)/ ¥2,500 (door) +1d. Eggman Tokyo East, B1 2-6-12 Iwamotocho, Chiyoda-ku. Nearest stn: Kanda. http:// meturl.com/dru2014

José James

Club jazz. Feb 14, 7 & 9:30pm; Feb 15, 6 & 9pm, ¥6,000-8,000.

Billboard Live. Nearest stn: Roppongi. www.billboard-live. com

My Jazzy Valentine III

American singer and songwriter Halie Loren. Feb 14, 6:30 & 9pm; Feb 15, 5 & 8pm; Feb 16, 5 & 8pm, ¥7,000-9,000.

Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Kaori Tango Trio

Tango tunes by a trio of piano, bandoneon and violin. Feb 15, 8 & 9pm, ¥3,000. Pub & Bar Cul-de-Sac. B1 2-1-3 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Sengakuji. www.kaorisacco.com

Kaori Sacco Trio

Swingin' GS

Essex-based guitar genius.

Mar 11, 7:30pm, ¥6,500 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-57209999. http://meturl.com/ wilko2014

Dark Tranquility

Finch

Bass music by Nik West. Feb 11, 5 & 8pm; Feb 12, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥6,300. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.bluenote. co.jp

Wilko Johnson

Alice Nine

Rock, metal and rockabilly fusion. Feb 15, 6pm; Feb 16, 6pm, ¥6,000 (adv) +1d. Club Quattro. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3477-8750. www. creativeman.co.jp

Good Music Parlor

Roach, Garlic Boys and more. Mar 2, 5pm, ¥2,300 (adv)/ ¥2,800 (door) +1d.

Shimokitazawa Reg. Nearest stn: Shimokitazawa. Tel: 03-6450-9346. www.roach.jp

K-pop group with awkward anagram, Boys of the EAst Standing Tall. Mar 15, 6pm; Mar 16, 5pm, ¥8,500 (adv) +1d.

Zepp DiverCity. Nearest stn: Daiba.

Volbeat

Swiss singer-songwriter. Feb 10, 7 & 9:30pm, ¥7,350. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.bluenote.co.jp

Milonga tango dance party accompanied by live music. Feb 16, 8pm, ¥2,500. Tokyo Tango City. 6F Takayama Land Bldg., 1-20-16 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-6809-6740. www. tokyotangocity.com

Bark at the Moon

J-pop trio. Feb 14, 6:30pm, ¥4,500 (adv) +1d. Shibuya Public Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3463-3022. www.merengue.jp Visual-kei crooners keep hearts a-flutter for Valentine's.

Feb 14, 6:30pm, ¥5,250 (adv) +1d. Zepp Tokyo. Nearest stn: Aomi. www.diskgarage.com

Bastian Baker

Death jazz quintet. Feb 10, 7pm, ¥4,000 (adv) +1d.

Akasaka Blitz. Nearest stn: Akasaka. www.jvcmusic.co.jp/ soilpimp

Yuji Miyake and Light Joke Jazz Orchestra. Feb 21, 7 & 9:30pm; Feb 22, 5 & 8pm, ¥8,400. Blue Note. Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.bluenote.co.jp

Roberta Gambarini

Italian jazz singer. Feb 21, 6:30 & 9pm; Feb 22, 5 & 8pm; Feb 23, 5 & 8pm, ¥6,800-9,000. Cotton Club. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www. cottonclubjapan.co.jp

Shomyo no Kai—Voices of a Thousand Years One of the oldest forms of vocal music performed by two dozen Buddhist priests. Feb 24, 7pm; Feb 25, 7pm, ¥4,300 (adv)/ ¥4,500 (door). Spiral Hall.

Nearest stn: Omotesando. www. kaibunsha.net

CLASSICAL New Japan Philharmonic

Works by Wagner, Respighi and others. Feb 7, 2pm; Feb 8, 2pm, ¥1,000-4,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5610-3815. www.triphony. com

New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra 2013/2014

Wagner and others. Feb 7, 2pm; Feb 8, 2pm, ¥1,000-28,800.

Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-56081212. www.triphony.com

Yugo Kanno's Valentine's Concert Lauded composer directs a one of a kind orchestra.

Feb 8, 6:30pm, ¥4,500 (adv). Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-5774-3030. www. bunkamura.co.jp

No. 1775 Subscription

Tadaaki Otaka conducts Sibelius. Feb 8, 6pm; Feb 9, 3pm, ¥1,500-8,500. NHK Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3465-1780. http://www. nhkso.or.jp/en

Promenade Concert No. 357

Brahms and others. Feb 8, 2pm, ¥2,000-5,800. Suntory Hall.

Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome.

Tel: 03-3822-0727. www.tmso. or.jp/e

Tokyo University 16th Graduation Concert

Waltz and others. Feb 8, 12:15pm, free. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

Sagamihara Junior Orchestra

Works by Tchaikovsky, Bartok and others. Feb 9, 2pm, ¥700. Green Hall. Nearest stn: Sagami-Ono. Tel: 042-742-9999. www.hall-net.or.jp

55th Regular Concert The Symphony Mosquitoes

Strauss and others. Feb 9, 2pm, ¥ 2,500. Sumida Triphony Hall.

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

Sumida Peace Memorial Concert 2014

Mozart and others. Feb 9, 3pm, ¥5,000-7,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony. com

New York Philharmonic

Led by conductor Alan Gilbert.

Feb 11, 6pm, ¥1,500-6,000.

Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. www.smf. or.jp/30th

Valentine's Special

Live orchestra plays classic movie tunes from My Fair Lady and more. Feb 11, 2pm, ¥4,8006,800. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5561-9001.

The 21th Regular Concert Orchestra Dasubidanya

Works by Shostakovich. Feb 11, 2pm, ¥2,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony. com

The Matinee Mitsuru

Daytime classical melodies. Feb 11, 1 & 5:30pm, ¥4,500-5,000.

Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-56081212. www.triphony.com

Nighttime Organ Concert

Performance by Megumi Ogata and Hideyuki Kobayashi. Feb 13, 7:30pm, ¥1,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-010296. www.geigeki.jp

The 19th Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music Bassoon concert. Feb 13, 6:30pm, ¥1,000-1,500. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

Valentine Serenade

3-course candlelight dinner while listening to Rossini, Tchaikovsky and more. Feb 14, 6:30pm, ¥8,445-9,335. Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan.

Nearest stn: Yurakucho. Tel: tickets@tokyosinfonia.com. http://tokyosinfonia.com

No. 1776 Subscription

Neville Marriner conducts Dvorak. Feb 14, 7pm; Feb 15, 3pm, ¥1,500-8,500. NHK Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3465-1780. http://www. nhkso.or.jp/en

The 163rd Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre

Clemens Schuldt conducts Tchaikovsky. Feb 15, 2pm, ¥1,500-7,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-35621550. www.yomikyo.or.jp/e

Sompo Japan Nippon Koa Orchestra 11th Regular Concert

Orchestra plays Strauss and others. Feb 15, 1:30pm, Free.

Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-56081212. www.triphony.com

Mikansei

Mandolin Orchestra plays

The Nutcracker and more. Feb 16, 2:30pm, free. Katsushika Symphony Hills. Nearest stn: Aoto. Tel: 03-5670-2222. mikansei.net

The 26th Concert Sony Philharmonic Orchestra

Orchestra plays Wagner and others. Feb 16, 2pm, ¥1,500.

Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-56081212. www.triphony.com

No. 1777 Subscription

Neville Marriner conducts Mozart. Feb 19-20, 7pm, ¥3,5008,500. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome. Tel: 03-34651780. http://www.nhkso.or.jp/en

Joint Concert: My Stage

Brahms and others. Feb 19, 6:30pm, ¥3,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

Journey of Classic New Year

Beethoven and others. Feb 20, 6:30pm, ¥1,200. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

Yukio Yokoyama

Performing Chopin and Liszt.

Feb 21, 1:30pm, ¥5,000. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Nearest stn: Hatsudai or Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5353-9999.

The 534th Subscription Concert

Clemens Schuldt conducts Ligeti and others. Feb 21, 7pm, ¥3,500-7,000. Suntory Hall.

Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome.

Tel: 03-3562-1550. www. yomikyo.or.jp/e

Tokyo University of the Arts Department Oboe Regular Concert

Stravinsky and others. Feb 21, 6:30pm, ¥1,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

FAF Orchestra The 46th Regular Concert

Brahms and others. Feb 22, 6pm, ¥2,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony. com

Wagner-Sosa-ieti OB Orchestra 40th Anniversary 75th Regular Concert

Beethoven and Tchaikovsky.

Feb 23, 1:30pm, ¥2,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

MATE Brass Ensemble 2nd Concert Bach and others. Feb 24, 7pm, ¥1,000. Sumida Triphony Hall.

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

Il Divo

Operatic pop crooners. Feb 26-27 & Mar 10, 7pm, ¥10,00013,000. Nippon Budokan.

Nearest stn: Kudanshita. Tel: 03-3402-5999. www.udo.jp/ Artists/IlDivo

The 8th Yomikyo Metropolitan Series

Kazuki Yamada conducts. Feb 27, 7pm, ¥3,000-7,000. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 03-35621550. www.yomikyo.or.jp/e

Con Sale Soiree du Concert Chopin and others. Feb 27, 6:30pm, ¥1,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-5608-1212. www.triphony.com

Pixar in Concert

Compilation of music and imagery from Pixar movies, performed by a full symphony orchestra. Feb 28, 7pm; Mar 1, 2 & 7pm, ¥6,500-8,500.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 050-5533-0888. www. bunkamura.co.jp

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 15

Listings The 568th Suntory Hall Popular Series

Kazuki Yamada conducts works by Beethoven and others. Feb 28, 7pm, ¥3,5007,000. Suntory Hall. Nearest stn: Roppongi-itchome.

Tel: 03-3562-1550. www. yomikyo.or.jp/e

The 844th Subscription Concert Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra plays Rachmaninoff and others.

Mar 2, 2pm, ¥2,000-7,500.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5353-9522. www.tpo. or.jp/en

Tomin Symphony Orchestra

Wagner and others. Mar 2, 1:30pm, free. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-56081212. www.triphony.com

Fukuhara Akirayoshi Piano Recital

Piano recital of Chopin and others. Mar 5, 7pm, ¥2,500.

Sumida Triphony Hall.

Nearest stn: Kinshicho.

Tel: 03-5608-1212. www. triphony.com

Le Velvets

Classical-pop crooners.

Mar 6, 6:30pm; Mar 7, 2pm; Mar 8, 2pm, ¥5,500-9,800.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

Tel: 03-3234-9999. www. le-velvets.com

Requiem

Sumida Peace Memorial Concert. Mar 9, 3pm, ¥5,0007,000. Sumida Triphony Hall. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. www.triphony.com

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16 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Let It Be

Theatrical concert from London's West End. Mar 4-9, Various times, ¥9,800-19,800.

Theatre Orb. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 0570-000-777. http://l-tike.com

work by Jessica Lange and others. Mar 18-19, 7pm; Mar 21-23, 2pm, ¥3,150-10,500.

New National Theatre Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/ballet

Die Tote Stadt

La Dame aux Camelias

The story of a young man struggling to get over the death of his wife. Mar 12 & 18, 7pm; Mar 15, 2pm; Mar 21 & 24, 2pm, ¥5,250-26,250. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.nntt.jac.go.jp

Dance

Alexandre Dumas's novel adapted for the stage.

Performed by Ballet de l'Opéra National de Paris. Mar 20, 6:30pm; Mar 21, 1:30pm; Mar 22, 1:30 & 6:30pm; Mar 23, 3pm, ¥7,000-25,000.

Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nbs.org/ english

Romeo and Juliet

La Bayadère

William Shakespeare's tragic tale performed by The Tokyo Ballet. ; Feb 7, 6:30pm; Feb 8, 2pm; Feb 9, 2pm, ¥3,00011,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan.

Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nbs. org/english

Dostoevsky: The Corpse

Collaboration between a Russian dancer and a Japanese musician. ; Feb 7-8, 7pm, ¥2,500 (adv)/ ¥3,000 (door).

Space Zatsuyu. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. tokyoguienkan@ gmail.com. www.zatsuyu.com

Kaeru

Avant-garde butoh dance.

Feb 7, 7:30pm; Feb 8, 2 & 7pm, ¥2,500-3,000 (adv)/ ¥2,700-3,500 (door). Theater X. Nearest stn: Ryogoku.

Tel: 03-5624-1181. www. dancemedium.info

Architanz 2014

Stage

Retirement performance by Robert Tewsley together with Hana Sakai. Feb 11-12, 7:15pm, ¥6,800-7,800. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5730-2732. www.a-tanz.com

Madame Butterfly

Dazzle

Giacomo Puccini's tragic love story. Feb 8, 2pm, ¥3,150-21,000. New National Theatre Tokyo. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 0120-489-459. www.nntt.jac.go.jp

Ovo - Cirque du Soleil

Revolutionary troupe that blends circus arts and street entertainment. Until May 11, various times, ¥4,50012,000. Odaiba Big Top, Odaiba. Nearest stn: Tokyo Teleport. www.fujitv.co.jp/ events/ovo

The Full Monty

Musical of the hit movie with a Japanese ikemen cast. Until Feb 16, various times, ¥7,000-11,000. Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 0570-550-955. http:// fullmonty2014.jp

A Louer

Brussels-based theater group Peeping Tom takes you on an ephemeral journey. Feb 17-19, 7:30pm, ¥2,000-4,800. Setagaya Public Theater. Nearest stn: Sangenjaya. Tel: 03-54321515. http://setagaya-pt.jp/en

Performative Architecture

Exhibition, installation and performances by up-andcoming masters of the stage.

Until Feb 23, noon-5pm, free (students)/ ¥1,000 (gen).

Nichigei Nihon University College of Art. intsct@gmail. com. www.intsct.com

Romeo and Juliet

(10:00-19:00) Outside hours please call local emergency

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS

Bilingual version of the classic tale, with a twist.

The Capulets are Japanese and the Montagues are expatriates. Subtitles in both languages provided.

Feb 27-28, 7pm; Mar 1, 1 & 7pm; Mar 2, 3pm, ¥2,500 (student)/ ¥4,000 (adv)/ ¥4,500 (door). The Pocket.

Nearest stn: Nakano. Tel: 03-3381-8422. www. tokyoplayers.org

Street and contemporary dance unit. Feb 14, 7:30pm; Feb 15-6, 1 & 5pm, ¥5,500-7,000.

Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre.

Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. Tel: 0570-02-9999. http://l-tike. com/dazzle

Swan Lake

The National Ballet of Japan performs the tale of Odette.

Feb 15-16, 2pm; Feb 21, 7pm; Feb 22-23, 2pm, ¥3,150-10,000.

New National Theatre Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Hatsudai. Tel: 03-5352-9999. www.nntt.jac. go.jp/english

The Nutcracker

The American Ballet Theatre transports you to a magical world of solders and mouse kings. Feb 20, 7pm; Feb 21, 1 & 7pm; Feb 22, 1pm, ¥5,00020,000. Bunkamura Orchard Hall. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5774-3040. www.japanarts. co.jp

All-Stars Gala Performance The crème de la crème of the American Ballet Theater present the best scenes from notable ballets. Feb 25, 6:30pm; Feb 26, 6:30pm, ¥7,000-22,000.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. bunkamura.co.jp/english

Manon

The American Ballet Theater takes on Kenneth MacMillan's extravagant production. Feb 27, 6:30pm; Feb 28, 1 & 6:30pm; Mar 1, 1pm, ¥6,300-22,000.

Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-5774-3040. www.japanarts.co.jp

Don Quichotte

Ballet de l'Opéra National de Paris blends windmills with dancers. Mar 13-14, 6:30pm; Mar 15, 1:30 & 6:30pm; Mar 16, 3pm, ¥7,000-25,000. Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nbs.org/english

Symphony in Three Movements

A triple bill of ballet performances including new

Story of love and betrayal performed by K-Ballet Company. Mar 20-26, Various times, ¥6,000-13,000.

Bunkamura Orchard Hall.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3477-9999. www.k-ballet. co.jp

Clubbing FRIDAY 7 Ageha

Agepa. All mix: DJs Marc Panther, U5, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥2,500, (f)free. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www.ageha.com

Air

Eureka. House DJs Gonno, Endo, etc: Live: Kyodai. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Liquidroom

Another Trip Session. DJs Nishida, Inoue, etc: Live: Silent Poets, Toe. From 8pm, ¥3,000(adv). Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-464-0800. www.liquidroom.net

Module

Double A Side. Techno, electro: DJs Watchman, W, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,000.

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

Sound Museum Vision

High Street. Hip-hop: DJs Craze, Kentaro, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,500, (f)¥3,000.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. vision-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

Breakthrough. Hip-hop: DJs Jin, Ladi Dadi, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Village

International Village. Hip-hop: DJs Kekke, Ibuki, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi.

Tel: 03-6230-0343. www. villagetokyo.com

Womb

Sterne. Techno: DJs Snuff Crew, Ishino, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

SATURDAY 8 Air

Acid City. House: DJ Emma and more. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Ruby Room

Slow it down. DJs Shinohara, Nic Liu, etc. From 11pm, ¥1,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.rubyroomtokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Rad. Electro: DJs Off the Rocker, Verbal, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,500, (f)¥3,000.

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

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS 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

Velours

Blackroom. Deep, trippy: DJs Tom Middleton, Hirose, etc.

From 10pm, ¥3,000 w/1d.

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

Womb

06s. Drumnbass: DJs Shockone, Aki, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500.

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

SUNDAY 9 Module

Moon Storge. Techno: DJs Saimura, Rihit, etc. From 4pm, ¥3,000 w/2d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo. com

The Room

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

Village

Sunday Tribe. Hip-hop: DJs Hokuto, Kango, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/2d.

Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www.villagetokyo.com

Nearest stn: Azabu-Juban or Roppongi. Tel: 03-6230-0343. www.villagetokyo.com

Womb

Jade Vision. Techno, house: DJ Lx-E and more. From 10pm, ¥1,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

FRIDAY 14 Ageha

Ageha Valentine. Edm, top40: DJs Ami, Yassy, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,000, (f)¥2,500.

Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www. ageha.com

Air

Plus Tokyo. Techno: DJs Ishino, Nishimura, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Zephyr. Techno, house DJs Philogresz, Sekitova, etc: 10pm. From midnight, ¥3,000.

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

Sound Museum Vision

Girls Festival. Hip-hop: DJs Kaori, Kango, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,500 w/1d, (f)free.

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

The Room

MONDAY 10

Otoko Oibon. Hip-hop: DJs Jin, Oibon, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,000 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Air

Unit

Matisse & Sadko. Edm, electro house: DJs Matisse & Sadko, Remo-Con, etc. From 10pm, ¥3,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Module

Insomniac. Bass music, house: DJs Miyu, Itti, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.module-tokyo. com

Sound Museum Vision

Snaps. Electro, all mix: DJs Dexpistols, Habanero Posse, etc.

From 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

The Room

Expansion. House, crossover: DJs Mu-R, Seki, etc. From 10pm, ¥2,500 w/1d. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Womb

Marc Antona. House: DJs Marc Antona, Raha, etc. From 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya.

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

WEDNESDAY 12 Ruby Room

Petroglyph. DJs Sasaki, Yocci.

From 8pm, free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.rubyroomtokyo. com

The Room

The Room Bar. Bar style: DJs Saitou, Mihiro, etc. From midnight, free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.theroom.jp

Womb

Wedm. Electro, house: DJs Hiroki, Ikezawa, etc. From 10pm, (m)¥1,500, (f) free. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-5459-0039. www.womb.co.jp

THURSDAY 13 Module

Crank. Techno, minimal DJs Daichi, Caster, etc: 10pm.

From midnight, ¥2,000 w/1d.

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

Sound Museum Vision

Bodega. Hip-hop: DJs Souljah, Smoke Les, etc. From 11pm, (m)¥3,000 w/1d, (f)¥2,500 w/1d.

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

Village

Village Thursday. Hip-hop: DJs Various DJs. From 10pm, (m)¥2,000 w/1d, (f)¥1,000 w/2d.

London Nite. Rock DJs Onuki, Hikaru, etc: Live: Guitarwolf and more. From 11pm, ¥6,000. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.unit-tokyo. com

Womb

Holic. House: DJ Tomoki Tamura. From 11pm, ¥3,500.

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

UPCOMING Ageha

The Wonderland. Edm, hard dance: DJs Yoji, Tiny Ducks, etc. Feb 15, from 11pm, ¥3,500.

Nearest stn: Shinkiba. www. ageha.com

Air

Praise. House: DJ Joaquin Joe Claussell. Feb 15, from 10pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.air-tokyo.com

Ruby Room

Teppan. DJs Nabe, Kubota, etc.

Feb 15, from 11pm, ¥1,000.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. rubyroomtokyo.com

Sound Museum Vision

Power. Electro, techno: DJs Ishino, Lucas Valentine, etc.

Feb 15, from 11pm, (m)¥3,500, (f)¥1,000. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.vision-tokyo.com

Project 020: Gabriel Acevedo Velarde. Mixed media. Until May 6, ¥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

Pre-Raphaelites: Victorian Avant-Garde. Masterpieces

by English painters. Until Apr 6, ¥500-1,500. 52F Roppongi Hills Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. www. roppongihills.com/art/macg/

Suntory Museum of Art

Imari: Japanese Porcelain for European Palaces.

Luxurious early seventeenth century porcelain from Saga prefecture. Until Mar 16, ¥800-1,300. A Visual Revolution in Edo. Illustration.

Import of microscopes and other optical devices overturned conventional illustration methods. Mar 29-May 11, ¥800-1,300. The Scientific Eye and Visual Wonders in Edo. The birth of intriguing visual effects in Japanese art. Mar 29-May 11, ¥1,000-1,300. 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

Kazumi Nakamura. Acrylic and oil paintings. Mar 19-May 19, ¥500-1,000. The Power of Images: The National Museum of Ethnology Collection.

Symbols and totems from around the world. Feb 19-Jun 9, ¥500-1,000. Open Wed-Thu, Sat-Mon 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-8pm, closed Tue. 7-22-2 Roppongi. Nearest stn: Nogizaka. www.nact.jp

Exhibitions AKASAKA/ROPPONGI Mori Art Museum

Andy Warhol: 15 Minutes Eternal. Almost 700 works by the standard-bearer of Pop Art. Until May 6, ¥500-1,500. MAM

2/14 (Fri) 14th Anniversary Party

PINTS OF ¥500 ALL DRAFT BEER

Ginza Nikon Salon

Life Studies. Photography by Aya Fujioka. Feb 12-25, free.

Remembrance 3.11. Photos of Fukushima by Hiromi Tsuchida. Feb 26-Mar 11, free.

1F Strate Ginza, 7-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Ginza.

Tel: 03-3248-3783.www. tokyo.mae.lu/jp/node_19876/ hana-hito-tokyo

H.P. France Window Gallery

Idemitsu Museum of Arts

Session. House: DJs D-Unity, Drunken Kong, etc. Feb 15, from 11pm, ¥3,500. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-54590039. www.womb.co.jp

14TH ANNIVERSARY

The Painters' Eyes, the Sculptors' Hands. Paintings and sculptures by various artists. Until Apr 13, ¥500-800.

Open Tue-Sun & hols 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-10-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.bridgestone-museum. gr.jp

Unit

Womb

Akasaka Branch

Dubliners’ Akasaka (30sec walk from Tameike-Sanno stn)

Bridgestone Museum of Art

Magic. House, disco: DJs Kawasaki, Endo, etc. Feb 15, from 9pm, ¥2,500 w/1d.

Nearest stn: Shibuya. www. theroom.jp Congo Natty. Jungle. DJs Madd, Don, etc: Live: Congo Natty.

Feb 15, from 11:30pm, ¥4,000.

Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www. unit-tokyo.com

www.dubliners.jp

GINZA/KYOBASHI/ TOKYO

Banknotes. Photography

by Ryo Ohwada. Feb 7-Mar 6, free. Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun & Hols 11am-8pm. 1F Marunouchi Bldg. 2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 03-32405791. http://hpgrpgallery. com/window

The Room

We welcome all kinds of parties.

Please contact us.

Each branch has different hours.

The Dreams of Itaya Hazan: The Bliss of Japanese Modern Ceramics. Ceramics.

Retrospective featuring some of the artist's greatest works.

Until Mar 23, ¥700-1,000.

Open Tue-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-7pm, closed Mon. 9F Teigeki Bldg, 3-1-1 Marunouchi. Nearest stn: Tokyo. www.idemitsu.co.jp/ museum

Shinjuku

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

Ikebukuro

Shibuya

2F Dogenzaka Center Bldg.

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

Akasaka

B1 Sun Gorou Bldg.

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

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

Shinagawa

Shinagawa Mitsubishi Bldg.

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

Megumi Ogita Gallery

Dreams of Winter. Mixed media by Aya Cagiu. Feb 14-Mar 1, free. Shoko Kanazawa. Calligraphy. Feb 15-Mar 29, ¥500. Tue-Sat 11am-7pm, Closed Mon & Sun. 4F, 5-4-14 Ginza. Nearest stn: Ginza. www.megumiogita. com

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 17

Listings Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum

The Beautiful-Art for Art's Sake: The Aesthetic Movement 1860-1900.

Mixed media. Organized by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Until May 6, ¥500-1,600. Wed-Fri 10am-8pm, Tue, Sat & Sun/ hols 10am-6pm, closed Mon. 2-6-2 Marunouchi. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-54058686. www.mimt.jp

Mitsui Memorial Museum

Hina Dolls of the Mitsui Family. Display of rare dolls.

UntilApr 6, ¥500-1,000.

7F Mitsui Main Bldg, 2-1-1 Nihombashi-Muromachi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Mitsukoshimae. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.mitsuimuseum.jp

National Film Center

Mention Metropolis for FREE ADMISSION

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Japanese Film Heritage.

Permanent collection of works from the National Film Center. Until Apr 3, ¥40-200.

Iconography of Yasujiro Ozu Films. A collection of paintings, design and lettering that sheds light on Mr. Ozu's unique aesthetic sensibility. Until Mar 30, ¥40-200. Little Known Japanese Cinema Vol.7.

Recently restored films from Shochiku. Feb 19-Mar 16, ¥100-500. Directed by Kazuki Omori-His Own Selection.

Lineup of films mostly from the 1980s. Mar 18-30, ¥100-500. Open Tue-Sun 11am-6:30pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Kyobashi. Nearest stn: Kyobashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.momat.go.jp

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

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

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Machine Private Lessons available at our Roppongi studio Lessons in English available Studios in Roppongi, Ginza, Nakameguro and more

03-6425-7054 • roppongi@basipilates.jp www.basipilates.jp/english/

Your Portrait: A Tetsumi Kudo Retrospective. Mixed media. Abstract expression of ordinary objects by one of Japan's most innovative artists of the 20th century.

Until Mar 30, ¥250-850.

Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-8pm.

3-1 Kitanomaru-koen.

Nearest stn: Takebashi. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.momat. go.jp

Zeit-Foto Salon

Mono-ha by Anzai.

Photography by Sigeo Anzai.

Until Feb 22, free. Open Tue-Fri 10:30am-6:30pm, Sat 10:30am-5:30pm, closed Sun-Mon & hols. 4F Matsumoto Bldg, 1-10-5 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Tokyo. Tel: 03-35357188. www.zeit-foto.com

HARAJUKU/AOYAMA Diesel Art Gallery

Global Photo Collaborations: Vice Japan. Photography.

Until Feb 14, free. Open daily 11:30am-9pm.

1-23-16 Shibuya. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.diesel. co.jp/art/

Itochu Aoyama Art Square

Iro no Tsuranari. Japanesestyle paintings by Yuuki Sori. Until Feb 28, free.

11am-7pm daily. B1 CI Plaza, 2-3-1 Kita-Aoyama.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-5772-2913. www.itochuartsquare.jp

National Children's Castle

Artscape. Over 500 artworks from students of over 50 different nationalities. Mar 1-16, free. Open Tue-Sun 12:30-5:30pm, closed Mon. 5-53-1 Jingumae.

Nearest stn: Omotesando.

Tel: 03-3797-5666. www. kodomono-shiro.com/ english

Nezu Museum

Art and Poetry: Waka Inspired Masterpieces. Traditional panels, lacquerware and kimono. Until Feb

18 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS 16, ¥600-1,000. Kiyomaro: Master Swordsmith to the Last Samurai. Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the artist's birth. Feb 26-Apr 6, ¥900-1,200.

Tue-Sun, 10am-4:30pm. 6-5-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku.

Nearest stn: Omotesando. www.nezu-muse.or.jp/en

Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art

Katsuhika Oi: "Courtesans Showing Themselves to the Strollers through the Grille" Beauty of Light and Shadow.

Woodblock prints. Until Feb 26, ¥500-700. Reminiscence of Hiroshige: Ukiyo-e History Walk.

Comparing real locations in old Oedo and modern Tokyo.

Mar 1-23, ¥500-700. Hiroshige Blue: Blue Attracted the World.

Color-themed Edo art. Apr 1-May 28, ¥500-700. Open Tue-Sun 10:30am-5:30pm, closed Mon. 1-10-10 Jingumae.

Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp

KAYABACHO/KIBA Base Gallery

The Places Nobody Knows.

Mixed media. Works by Toshio Miyaoka. Feb 21-Mar 29, free.

Open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, closed Sun and Hols. 1-1-6 Nihombashi-Kayabacho, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Kayabacho. www.basegallery. com

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

Fragments: Incomplete Beginnings. Mixed media. Feb 15-May 11, ¥700-1,600. The Marvelous Real. Contemporary Spanish and Latin American art from the Musac collection.

Feb 15-May 11, ¥600-1,100.

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

Nearest stn: KiyosumiShirakawa. www.mot-artmuseum.jp/eng

SHIBUYA/EBISU Bunkamura Gallery

Yumeji Takehisa and Seiu Ito. Illustration. Until Feb 9, free.

Beauty of Function. Victorinox Swiss knife makers celebrate 130th anniversary. Feb 11-19, free. Open daily, 10am-7pm.

2- 24-1 Dogenzaka. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.bunkamura. co.jp/english

Bunkamura: The Museum Arcadia on the Shore: Puvis de Chavanne's Mythic World.

Mural painter that combined innovation with classical style. Until Mar 9, ¥700-1,400.

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

The Watari-Um Museum of Contemporary Art Treasure. Photography by Harumichi Saito. Until Mar 16, ¥500-1,000. Open Tue & Thu-Sun 11am-7pm, Wed 11am-9pm, closed Mon. 3-7-6 Jingumae. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. www.watarium. co.jp

Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography

True Colors. Photography. Feb 7-23, free. Open Tue-Wed & Sat-Sun 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-8pm, closed Mon. 1-13-3 Mita, Meguro-ku. Nearest stn: Ebisu. syabi.com

Tokyo Wonder Site Shibuya

Wonder Seeds 2014. Mixed media. Young artists present their works. Until Mar 2, free.

1-19-8 Jinnan. Nearest stn: Shibuya. Tel: 03-3463-0603. www.tokyo-ws.org/shibuya

Yamatane Museum of Art Jakuchu's Adorability and Shoen's Beauty : "Kawaii" in Japanese Art. Edo-period screen paintings. Until Mar 2, ¥900-1,200. My. Fuji, Cherry Blossoms, and Flowers in Spring.

Mixed media. Commemorating

Mt. Fuji's registration as a World Cultural Heritage site. Mar 11-May 11, ¥900-1,200. Open Tue-Fri 11am-5pm, closed Mon & hols. 3-12-36 Hiroo. Nearest stn: Ebisu. Tel: 03-5777-8600. www.yamatane-museum.or.jp

SHINJUKU/ IKEBUKURO Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

European Fashion. Rococo for men and children. Feb 7-May 24, ¥200-500. Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Closed Sun and hols. Shinjuku Bunka Quint Bldg. 3-22-7 Yoyogi. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-32992387. www.bunka.ac.jp/ museum/text/english.html

Eitoeiko Gallery

Wish You Were Here.

Photography by Masaru Aikawa. Using an analog pinhole camera and modern social networks online, the artist connects the present and the past through his images. Until Feb 8, free.

Baseball Coloring Book in Urasoe, Okinawa. Illustrations

by Takahiro Nagasawa. Until Feb 28, free. Open Wed-Sun noon-7pm, closed Mon-Tue. 32-2 Yaraicho. Nearest stn: Kagurazaka. Tel: 03-64796923. www.eitoeiko.com

Hiromart Gallery

Ultra Deep Field. Painting.

Abstract art by Alan Van Every. Until Mar 9, free. Open Wed-Sun 1-7pm, closed Mon-Tue. 1-30-7 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku. Nearest stn: Edogawabashi. www. hiromartgallery.com

NTT Intercommunication Center

Open Space 2013. A melting pot of artists and media. Until Mar 2, free. Solaris. Works by Arata Isozaki. Until Mar 2, ¥500.

4F Tokyo Opera City Tower, 3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.ntticc.or.jp

Shinjuku Nikon Salon

Nippon Camera Photo Contest 2013. Award-winning photography. Feb 25-Mar 3, 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

Sompo Japan Museum of Art

Quintet: Five-Star Artists.

Mixed media by five Japanese artists, based on the theme "landscape". Until Feb 16, ¥300-500. Face 2014. Mixed media. Grand-prix winners of an annual competition aimed at young artists. Feb 22-Mar 30, ¥300-500. 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

The Sato Museum of Art

Keiko Inokuma. Woodland paintings. Until Mar 2, ¥500.

Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, closed Mon. 31-10 Daikyocho.

Nearest stn: Sendagaya. Tel: 03-3358-6021. homepage3. nifty.com/sato-museum

Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery

Sawa Hiraki: Under the Box, Beyond the Bounds.

Photography. Until Mar 30, ¥600-1,000. Open Tue-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sat 11am-8pm.

3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.operacity. jp/en/ag

UENO Edo-Tokyo Museum

Ukiyo-e: A Journey Through the Floating World. Woodblock prints. Until Mar 2, ¥450-1,300.

Open Tue-Fri & Sun 9:30am5:30pm, Sat 9:30am-7:30pm, closed Mon & hols. 1-4-1

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS Yokoami. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 03-3626-9974. www.edo-tokyo-museum. or.jp

GIVEAWAY

National Museum of Nature and Science

The National Museum of Western Art

THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS,GIFU

Big Dinosaurs: Wonders of the Gobi Desert. Velociraptor and tarbosaurus bones unravel mysteries of Earth's history.

Until Feb 23, ¥600-1,500.

Surviving the Desert: Strategies of Humans, Plants & Animals.

Investigation into survival in harsh conditions. Until Feb 9, ¥600. Open Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-8pm, closed Mon. 7-20 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. Tel: 03-3822-0111. www.kahaku.go.jp

Study for Charity (ca.1893-94) Oil on paper mounted on canvas.

Metropolis is giving away tickets to the "Arcadia on the Shore: Puvis de Chavanne's Mythic World" exhibition at Bunkamura: The Museum. Email us at giveaway@metropolis.co.jp or send a message via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the name of your favorite Japanese artist for a chance to win.

Monet, An Eye for Landscapes: Innovation in 19th Century French Landscape. Some of the artist's most famous impressionist works, including "Water Lilies". Until Mar 9, ¥600-1,400. The 150th Anniversary: The Prints of Edvard Munch from the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo.

Prints. Major element of Munch's overall work method.

Until Mar 9, ¥130-420. Open daily 9:30am-5:30pm. 7-7 Ueno Park. Nearest stn: Ueno. www. nmwa.go.jp

accessories. Until May 6, ¥250-420. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm, closed Mon. 117 Jonai-cho, Sakura-shi.

Nearest stn: Keisei-Sakura. www.rekihaku.ac.jp/english

Tokyo National Museum

Pola Museum of Art

Admired from Afar: Masterworks of Japanese Painting from the Cleveland Museum of Art. Traditional Japanese paintings return home. Until Feb 23, ¥800-1,600.

The 60th Japan Traditional Kogei Exhibition Engendering Beauty, Preserving Technique: Artworks by Living National Treasures. Pieces made by artists acknowledged for their dedication and pursuit of excellence. Until Feb 23, ¥800-1,400. Japanese Masks: Noh Masks - Zekan and Kawachi.

Masks by masters. Until Feb 16, ¥400-600. Yayoi Culture at the Westernmost Point of Honshu: The Hibikinada Area and the Ayaragigo Site in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Artifacts from western Japan. Until Mar 9, ¥400-600. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5pm. 13-9 Ueno Park.

Nearest stn: Ueno. www.tnm.jp

Ueno Royal Museum

VOCA: The Vision of Contemporary Art 2014. Mixed media. Mar 15-30, ¥500.

Open Sat-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-8pm. 1-2 Ueno Park.

Nearest stn: Ueno. www. ueno-mori.org

OTHER AREAS Hoki Museum

Hoki Museum Award Exhibition Vol. 1. Painting. Until May 18, ¥900-1,800. 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

Japan Folk Crafts Museum

Tea and Beauty: Soetsu Yanagi and the Way of Tea. Tea utensils and other accessories.

Until Mar 23, ¥500-1,000.

10am-5pm, closed Mon. 4-3-33 Komaba. Nearest stn: Komabatodai. www. mingeikan.or.jp

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

Fragments: Incomplete Beginnings. Mixed media. Feb 15-May 11, ¥700-1,600. The Marvelous Real. Contemporary Spanish and Latin American art from the Musac collection.

Feb 15-May 11, ¥600-1,100.

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

Nearest stn: KiyosumiShirakawa. www.mot-artmuseum.jp/eng

National Museum of Japanese History

Various Seasonal Festivals.

Traditional ornaments and

See exhibition listings (Shibuya/Ebisu) for more details.

Homage to Renoir: Renoir and Painters of the Twentieth Century. Impressionist oil paintings. Until Apr 6, JPY1,000-1,800. Color, Line, Form: Matisse, Degas, Chagall.

Oil, watercolor and pastel painting. Until Apr 6, ¥1,0001,800. Japanese-Style Paintings and Japanese Western-Style Paintings. Works by Léonard Foujita and others. Until Apr 6, ¥1,000-1,800. Glasswork Selections. 120 of the museum's finest pieces. Until Apr 6, ¥1,000-1,800. 9am-4:30pm.

1285 Kozukayama, Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi.

Nearest stn: Gora. www. polamuseum.or.jp

Setagaya Art Museum

Ginko, Ryusei and Reiko Kishida—Genealogy of Innovative Spirit. Painting.

Feb 8-Apr 6, ¥500-1,200.

Open Tue-Sun10am-6pm, closed Mon. 1-2 Kinutakoen, Setagaya-ku. Nearest stn: Seijogakuenmae.

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

Taka Ishii Gallery of Photography and Film

Frank Lloyd Wright. Photos of Wright's works taken by architectural photographer Yukio Futagawa. Feb 15-Mar 15, free. Noon-7pm, closed Mon, Sun & hols. 5F, 1-3-2 Kiyosumi, Koto-ku, Tokyo.

Nearest stn: Roppongi. www. takaishiigallery.com

The French Institute Tokyo

Digital Choc 2014. Machinery on the walls, robots of dreams and more. Feb 21-Mar 23, various times, free. 15 Ichigaya Funagawara-cho. Nearest stn: Iidabashi. Tel: 03-5206-2500. www.institutfrancais.jp/tokyo

Sports BASEBALL Central League

Yomiuri Giants vs. Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Mar 1-2, 6pm, ¥500-4,500. Tokyo Dome.

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

Interleague

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Yomiuri Giants. Mar 12, 1pm, ¥300-2,500. QVC Marine Field.

Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari.

Tel: 043-296-1227.

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Hiroshima Toyo Carp. Mar 15, 1pm, ¥300-2,500. QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: KaihinMakuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227.

Pacific League

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Fukuoka Softbank Hawks.

Mar 8, 1pm, ¥300-2,500.

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

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Saitama Seibu Lions. Mar 9, 1pm, ¥300-2,500. QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227.

Chiba

Lotte Marines vs.

Orix Buffaloes. Mar 14, 1pm, ¥300-2,500. QVC Marine Field. Nearest stn: KaihinMakuhari. Tel: 043-296-1227

BASKETBALL National Basketball League

Hitachi

Sunrockers vs.

Wakayama Trians. Feb 8, 6pm, ¥1,000-2,500. Sumida City Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-36237273.

Hitachi

Sunrockers vs.

Hyogo Storks. Feb 9, 3pm, ¥1,000-2,500. Sumida City Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-36237273.

Hitachi

Sunrockers vs.

Aisin Seahorses Mikawa.

Feb 15-16, 6pm, ¥1,0002,500. Ota City General Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Umeyashiki. Tel: 03-54806688.

Hitachi

Sunrockers vs.

Kumamoto Volters. Mar 1-2, 6pm, ¥1,000-3,500. Sumida City Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Kinshicho. Tel: 03-36237273.

BOXING Shoot Boxing

Feb 23, 6pm, ¥4,000-10,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

FIGURE SKATING ISU World Championships

Mar 26-Mar 30, various times, ¥3,000-25,000.

Saitama Super Arena.

Nearest stn: SaitamaShintoshin.

ICE HOCKEY Asia League

H.C.

Tochigi Nikko Icebucks vs. High 1. Feb 8-9, 4pm, ¥1,000-3,600. Nikko Shimofuri Ice Arena. Tel: 0288-53-5881.

Nikko

Icebucks vs.

Tohoku Free Blades. Mar 1-2, 6:30pm, ¥500-6,000.

DyDo Drinco Ice Arena.

Nearest stn: Higashifushimi. Tel: 042-467-7171.

Oji Eagles vs. Nippon Paper Cranes. Mar 1-2, 3pm, ¥500-6,000. DyDo Drinco Ice Arena. Nearest stn: Higashifushimi. Tel: 042-467-7171.

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 19

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Feb 11, 3pm, ¥3,00030,000. Ota City General Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Umeyashiki. Tel: 03-54806688.

Krush. 38

Feb 14, 7pm, ¥4,500-9,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

MMA VTJ 4th

Feb 23, 4pm, ¥6,00050,000. Ota City General Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Umeyashiki. Tel: 03-54806688.

Shooto

Mar 16, 5:30pm, ¥5,00010,000. Korakuen Hall.

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

L’operaio is the largest speciality pre-owned luxury car dealership in Tokyo. Each sale is backed by our outstanding customer support and maintenance personnel.

Pancrase 257

Mar 30, 3pm, ¥7,00015,000. Yokohama Cultural Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Kannai. Tel: 045 641 5741.

PRO WRESTLING Big Japan

Nov 22, 7pm, ¥3,150-6,300.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

Always 350 or more imported cars.

Mercedes-Benz・AMG・Porsche ・BMW・audi・Ferrari・Lamborghini・Maserati

www.loperaio.co.jp/ Tokyo 03-3997-3000 Saitama 048-421-5500

Noah: The Second Navig.

Feb 8, 6pm, ¥4,000-7,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

Kensuke Office

Feb 11, 12pm, ¥3,000-7,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

Michinoku

Feb 15, 7pm, ¥3,500-5,000.

Shinkiba 1stRing. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. Tel: 03-35211015.

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Feb 16, 6pm, ¥5,000-10,000.

Shinjuku Face. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3419-0536.

Noah

Feb 22, 6pm, ¥4,000-7,000.

Differ Ariake. Nearest stn: Ariake-tennis-no-mori.

Doutonbori

Feb 23, 1pm, ¥4,000-7,000.

Shinkiba 1stRing. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. Tel: 03-35211015.

Big Japan: BJW-ZET

Feb 26, 7pm, ¥4,000-6,000.

Shinjuku Face. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3419-0536.

Wrestling New Classic Order at https://e-flamingo.net or email us at bitcoin-teller-machine@e-flamingo.net.

Feb 27, 7pm, ¥3,000-7,000.

Shinjuku Face. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. Tel: 03-3419-0536.

DDT

DDT.

Feb 9, 6:30pm, ¥4,000-5,000. Shinkiba 1stRing. Nearest stn: Shinkiba. Tel: 03-3521-1015.

DDT:

Judgement. Mar 21, 12pm, ¥3,000-5,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

DDT:

Max Bump. Apr 29, 12pm, ¥3,000-5,000.

Korakuen Hall. Nearest stn: Suidobashi. Tel: 03-58009999.

RUGBY Top League

Final. Feb 9, 2pm, ¥300-5,000.

Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-34013881.

Japan Rugby Championships

Feb 16, 11:40am, ¥500-10,000.

Chichibunomiya Rugby

20 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

GO TO WWW.METURL.COM/LISTINGS Stadium. Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 03-3401-3881.

SOCCER Chibagin Cup: JEF United Chiba vs. Kashiwa Reysol Feb 16, 2pm, ¥500-4,000.

Fukuda Arena. Nearest stn: Soga. Tel: 043-208-5577.

Fuji Xerox Super Cup: Sanfrecce Hiroshima vs.

Yokohama F. Marinos

Feb 22, 1:35pm, ¥1,000-6,500.

National Olympic Stadium.

Nearest stn: Gaienmae. Tel: 042-342-8950.

SUMO 38th Grand Tournament

Feb 9, 11am, ¥200-36,000.

Ryogoku Kokugikan. Nearest stn: Ryogoku. Tel: 03-36235111.

TABLE TENNIS Obayashi Cup

Mar 1, 11:30am, ¥1,800.

Yoyogi National Gymnasium.

Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae.

World Team Table Tennis Championships

Apr 28-May 5, various times, ¥1,000-8,000. Yoyogi National Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Meiji-Jingumae.

VOLLEYBALL Suntory Sunbirds vs. JT Thunders

Mar 1, 11am, ¥300-6,900.

Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Sendagaya. Tel: 03-5474-2112.

Panasonic Panthers vs.

JTEKT Stings

Mar 2, 10:05am, ¥300-6,900.

Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Nearest stn: Sendagaya. Tel: 03-5474-2112.

Festivals Plum Blossom Viewing

600 trees, including numerous rare varieties.

Feb 9-Mar 3, 9am-5pm, ¥200-500. Sankeien Garden Museum. Nearest stn: Negishi.

Tel: 045-621-0634. www. sankeien.or.jp/en-about

Chinese Spring Festival

Traditional performances, acrobatics and lion dances.

Until Feb 11, various times, free. Yokohama Chinatown.

Nearest stn: Motomachichukagai. Tel: 045-662-1252. www.chinatown.or.jp/e

Kigensai

Ceremony commemorating the foundation of Japan. Feb 11, 10am, free. Meiji Jingu Shrine. Nearest stn: Harajuku. www.meijijingu.or.jp/english

Kinensai

Ceremony with prayers for a good harvest. Feb 17, 10am, free. Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Nearest stn: Harajuku. www. meijijingu.or.jp/english

Edo Nagashibina Ceremony

Dolls imbued with disasters that may befall children are sent down the river to be rid of them. Mar 2, 11:30am, free. Azumabashi Bridge Shinsui Terrace and Sumida Park. Nearest stn: Asakusa.

Tel: 03-3847-2200. http:// taitonavi.jp

Fire-walking Festival

Yamabushi and other participants walk across hot coals while praying for protection against illness.

Mar 9, all day, free. Takao-san Yakuoin Head Temple. 2177 Takao-machi, Hachiojii.

Nearest stn: Takao-san Iriguchi. www.takaosan.or.jp/ english

Kannon Jigen-e

Celebrating the original of the shrine with a golden dragon dance and other

events. Mar 18, all day, free.

Sensoji. Nearest stn: Asakusa.

Tel: 03-3842-0181. www. senso-ji.jp

Forums & Expos Claska Wedding Land

Artsy designers, cake makers and more. Feb 9, 6pm, ¥500.

3F, 8F Claska, 1-3-18 Chuocho, Meguro-ku. Nearest stn: Gakugei Daigaku. wedding@ claska.com http:// meturl. com/weddingland14

Tableware Festival

Porcelain, dining accessories and new trends. Until Feb 10, 10am-7pm (1st day 11am-7pm), ¥1,700 (adv)/ ¥2,000 (door). Tokyo Dome.

Nearest stn: Suidobashi.

Tel: 03-5800-9999 www. tokyo-dome.co.jp/ tableware/22th/event

Japan Golf Fair

Largest golf show in Asia.

Feb 14-16, 10am-6pm, free.

Tokyo International Forum Exhibition Hall. Nearest stn: Yurakucho. info@ japangolffair.com. www. japangolffair.com/english

Saitama Cycle Expo

A cycling fanatic's dream.

Feb 15, 10am-5pm; Feb 16, 10am-4pm, free. Saitama Super Arena. Nearest stn: SaitamaShintoshin. Tel: 03-6820-5146. http://cycle-expo.jp

Tokyo Marathon Expo

Everything and anything for the casual jogger to the serious athlete. Feb 20-21, 11am-9pm; Feb 22, 11am-8pm, free. Tokyo Big Sight. Nearest stn: KokusaiTenjijo-Seimon. www. tokyo42195.org/2014en/ expo2014

Bazaars & Markets Artism Market

Gothic and Lolita, steam punk etc accessories and art. Mar 1, 11am-4pm, ¥500. Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center. Nearest stn: Takeshiba.

Tel: 03-3434-4242. www. artism.jp

Daruma Doll Fair

Over 300 stalls, various buddhist rituals and more.

Mar 3-4, all day, free. Jindaiji.

Nearest stn: Mitaka. Tel: 042-486-5511. www.jindaiji. or.jp

Shinagawa Intercity Flea Market

More than 120 vendors. Sun & hols. Nov 15-Jan 1, 9am-3pm, free. Shinagawa Intercity.

Nearest stn: Shinagawa. meturl.com/shinflea

Iidabashi Ramla Market

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

Nearest stn: Iidabashi.

Umi no Koen Flea Market Every 3rd Sun, 10am-4pm, Umi no Koen. Nearest stn: Uminokoen-Shibaguchi. rinpodan@umino-kouen.net Tel: 03-3226-6800.

Best Flea Market

Every second Sun, 10am-4pm, Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-3226-6800.

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

Ibaraki-ichi

Farm-fresh veg from the north.

Every Sat, 7-9am, Roppongi Hills East Court. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-6406-5285.

Nogi Shrine Market

Every second Sun, 5:30am3pm, Nogi Shrine. Nearest stn: Nogizaka. Tel: 03-3478-3001.

Oedo Antique Fair

Japan’s largest outdoor

FOR COMPLETE LISTINGS for artstars and sketching newbies alike with arty socializing. Every third Wed, 7pm, ¥2,000 1d incl. Studio and Space IVVA. Nearest stn: Meiji-jingumae or Harajuku. www.drsketchytokyo. wordpress.com

FEB 8-APR 26 Telephone Counselor Training Program Spring 2014

12-week program beginning Feb. 8 and then every Tue and Thu 9:30am-12:30pm in Minami Aoyama. Online training program also available. For more info. email: lls.assist@telljp.com antique market. Every first and third Sun, 8am-4:30pm, Tokyo International Forum Hall C. Nearest stn: Yurakucho.

Tel: 03-5805-1093.

Aoyama Marché

Organic farmers’ market.

Every weekend, United Nations University. Nearest stn: Omotesando. Tel: 03-3456-0960.

Yasukuni Shrine Antique Market

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

Learning Salon de Kyoto

Learn basic furoshiki wrap techniques and how to make the most of the cloth in daily life. Feb 12, 2 & 7pm, ¥1,000.

Marunouchi Café Seek.

Nearest stn: Nijubashimae. event@marunouchicafe.com. www.marunouchicafe.com

Chile Wine vs. French Wine

Wine seminar with a South American-style gourmet dinner. Feb 22, 6:30pm, ¥10,980 (adv). Legato. Nearest stn: Shibuya. meturl.com/ monthlywine

TCS Improv Workshop

The weekly Tokyo Comedy Store In the Moment improv workshop, all levels welcome.

Beginner intensives on weekends throughout the year. See website for more details. Every Wednesday, 7-9pm, Our Space Studio.

Nearest stn: Hatagaya.

Tel: 03-5770-7401. www. tokyocomedy.com/improv_ comedy_workshop

Arena. Nearest stn: Roppongi. info@swissdays.jp. www. swissdays.jp/en

Alfred Hitchcock and the Blonde Beauty

Classic movie screenings featuring Vertigo, To Catch a Thief and Marnie. Jan 25-Feb 14, various times, ¥1,300 (adv)/ ¥1,800 (door)/ ¥3,000 (3 screenings).

Shinjuku Piccadilly. Nearest stn: Shinjuku. www. screenbeauties.com

Kyoaruki in Tokyo 2014 Events, exhibits and free gifts in the name of promoting Kyoto city as a tourist destination. Until Feb 19, various times, various prices. Venues across Tokyo. www. kyoaruki.jp

Flower Art Awards 2014 Large-scale flower sculptures and arrangements . Apr 17, 11am-9pm, free. Tokyo Midtown. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 03-34753100. www.tokyo-midtown. com

Tokyo Marathon International Friendship Run 2014

Shinjuku Central Park Market

Ice Rinks

Fun-run and cultural exchange event ahead of the marathon. Application ends Feb 14. Feb 22, 10:45am, free (spectator)/ ¥3,000 (application fee).

Ariake Jogport. Nearest stn: Kokusai Tenjijo Seimon.

Art Rink

Tokyo Marathon 2014

Yebisu Marché

Diner's Club Ice Rink

Fudaten Jinja Market

Every second Sun, 10am-4pm, Fudaten Jinja. Nearest stn: Chofu. Tel: 04-2489-0022.

Local produce stalls, workshops and live performances. Every Saturday, 10am-4pm, Shinjuku Central Park.

Nearest stn: Tocho-mae. Tel: 03-2504-2128. meturl.com/ shinjukuparkmarket Organic fruits and vegetables.

Every first and third Sun, 11am-5pm, Ebisu Garden Place. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.facebook.com/ YEBISUMarche

Community Love X Human Rights: Valentine's Charity Party Cocktail party arranged by Human Rights Now. Feb 12, 7:30pm, ¥6,000 (single)/ ¥10,000 (pair). Fiat The Space.

Nearest stn: Aoyama-Itchome. info@hrn.or.jp. meturl.com/ valenchar14

Kizuna Fundraising Event Gala networking event for a great cause. Invitation only, email for details. Feb 25, 7pm, ¥10,000. Togo House 301, 5-11-12 MinamiAzabu. Nearest stn: Hiroo. info@kizuna-cpr.org www. kizuna-cpr.org

Japanese Speech Contest 2014 Cheer on contestants for this year's round. Mar 1, 1:30-5pm, free. Za-Koenji. Nearest stn: Koenji. info@suginamikouryu.org. www.suginamikouryu.org

Stitch-n-Bitch

Meet fellow knitters, crocheters and sewers to talk, share ideas, eat, drink and create. Every first and third Tue, 7pm, free, Cafe Respekt. 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. Tel: 03-6434-5773. cowmail@thepinkcow.com

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Burlesque models pose

Artistically designed outdoor ice rink. Until Feb 23, Mon-Fri 1-10pm, Sat, Sun & hols 11am-10pm, ¥300-500, +skate rental. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Nearest stn: Minatomirai. www.yokohamaakarenga.jp/artrink2013 Blading in the heart of Roppongi. Jan 9-Mar 9, 11am-10pm, ¥1,000 (elem and under)/ ¥1,500 (gen).

Tokyo Midtown. Nearest stn: Roppongi. Tel: 0570-017154. http://meturl.com/ midskate2014

Sora x Niwa x Ice Park

Skating, churros, hot cocktails and more. Until Mar 2, daily 11am-10pm, ¥1,800-5,500.

Matsuya Ginza rooftop, 3-6-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Ginza. www.soraxniwa.com/ ice201314

Toshimaen Rooftop Ice Rink

On the ice in the sky. Until Mar 2, Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat, Sun & hols 10am-7:30pm, ¥500 (elem and under)/ ¥1,000 (gen) +rental fee. Akasaka Sacas.

Nearest stn: Akasaka. http:// meturl.com/toshimaen2014

White Sacas Ice Garden

Enjoy the nearby illuminations while skating.

Until Mar 2, Noon-9pm Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm Sat-Sun & hols, ¥500 (elem and under)/ ¥1,000 (gen). Akasaka Sacas.

Nearest stn: Akasaka. http:// meturl.com/sakasice2014

Other Events TPAM in Yokohama

International platform for performing arts of every kind.

Feb 8-16, various times, various prices. Various Yokohama venues. Tel: 03-5724-4660. www.tpam.or.jp/2014

Winter Appeal of Kyoto

Performances by maiko and other events. Feb 8-9, all day, free. Printemps Ginza. 3-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Nearest stn: Ginza Itchome. Tel: 075-7527070. www.kyoaruki.jp

Swissdays

Schwingen, food stalls, yodelers and more. Until Feb 9, various times, free. Roppongi Hills

About 36,000 runners take to the streets of Tokyo for the biggest race of the year.

Feb 23, from 9am, free (spectator). All over Tokyo. tm2014@or.knt.co.jp www. tokyo42195.org/2014en

Illuminations Blue Lights Symphony

Until Feb 14, daily from 5pm, free. Keyaki Hiroba, Saitama Shintoshin. Nearest stn: Saitama Shintoshin www.saitama-arena.co.jp/ illumination2013

Marunouchi Illuminations

Until Feb 16, daily from 5pm, free. Marunouchi area.

Nearest stn: Tokyo. www. marunouchi.com

THE

E C N DA HOP

RKS O W

Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination

Until Feb 16, daily from 5pm, free. Tokyo Dome City. Nearest stn: Korakuen or Suidobashi. www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/ illumination/2013

Jewellumination

Until Feb 16, daily from 4pm, ¥500-1,200.

Yomiuriland. Nearest stn: Yomiurilandmae. www. yomiuriland.com

Oto to Hikari no Omotenashi

Until Mar 2, daily from 5pm, free. Akasaka Sacas.

Nearest stn: Akasaka. http:// sacas.net

Night Venus - Light for Wishing

Professional step by step dance instruction in both English and Japanese.

Great for fun, knowledge, self improvement, making new friends, exercise, and networking.

Instructor Virg started in the entertainment business at the age of 10 and has traveled around the world working for many famous artist and major corporations.

Here are some of the artist and companies that Virg has worked for: Mariah Carey, Neyo, Chris Brown, Michael Jackson, Ashanti, Nicki Minaj, Flo Rida, Kat Deluna, Ciara, MTV, FOX, Coca Cola, Disney, etc...

Until Mar 16, daily from noon, free. VenusFort.

Nearest stn: Aoumi. Tel: 03-3599-0700. www. venusfort.co.jp/illumi

Winter Fantasy

Until Apr 9, daily from sunset, free. Cosmo Clock 21, Cosmo World. Nearest stn: Minato Mirai. www. senyo.co.jp/cosmo

Lake Sagami Illumillion Until Apr 13, daily from 5pm, ¥300-500. Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest.

Nearest stn: Sagamiko. www.sagamiko-resort.jp/ illumillion

Contact us: 080-4346-9405 (Eng/Jap ok!) virg@hotmail.co.jp #1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 21

Agenda Movies BY DON MORTON

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

THE WOLF OF WALL STREET

I

think “excess” is the motif here. Martin Scorsese’s film chronicles the rise and fall of high-finance low-life Jordan Belfort, who, through fraud and bullying sales tactics, built one of the largest trading houses in the country. He and his vulgar cadre of badly behaving brokers (notably sidekick Jonah Hill) celebrated each success with frat-rat mentality, invariably involving mountains of blow and armies of hookers. An extended feature about these degenerates would be unwatchable. So Scorsese has brilliantly flipped it into a rare, for him, flat-out comedy (of excess, natch) and pulled out all the stops.

Leonardo DiCaprio stars as the swinging-dick antihero in an unchained, balls-to-the-wall portrayal that may be a career best. Kind of like a Gordon Gekko but, you know, funny. There’s a lot going on, all the time.

Excess, remember? But it fairly spits with energy and is never dull. Depressing, exhausting, and maybe too

AMERICAN HUSTLE

NEW

WHAT MAISIE KNEW

NEW

Starts off with, “Some of this a c t u a l ly h a p p e n e d ,” wh i c h i s a re f re sh i n g t a ke on t h at trite “inspired by true events” hog wa sh , a nd a l s o t he on ly honest statement you’ll find in this hugely entertaining assemblage of lies, disguises, deceits, scams, stings and cons. A pair of small-time con-persons (a transcendent Christian Bale & a terrific Amy Adams) get caught by an insanely ambitious FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) who uses them to set up other stings to advance his career. Jennifer Lawrence, too. Great use of vintage '70s jukebox hits. A twisted tale well told. I want to see it again. (138 min)

The quietly watchful, sweetn at u re d t it le s i x-ye a r- old i s intelligent and perceptive, and virtually ignored by her bickering, divorce-bound parents, neither of which can appreciate what a remarkable little girl they’ve produced. Rarely have I seen a movie on such a downbeat subject that’s so profoundly moving, even optimistic. Julianne Moore and Steve Coogan do their usual spot-on job, but it’s little Onata Aprile as Maisie that sets this movie apart. Her sad-eyed patience is gut-wrenching, and we feel her pain. Required viewing for all parents, as well as anyone even considering parenthood. Japanese title: Maisie no hitomi (99 min)

THOR: THE DARK WORLD

Ah. So what’s a critic supposed to say about a deeply silly, obligatory sequel to a so-so flick about a minor Marvel guy, a film intended mostly to tide over fans eager for the next Avengers? Well, maybe it is precisely because it is of less than epic “importance” that it can relax and be, on its own terms, constantly amusing.

This time the Man with the Mallet (Chris Hemsworth, major beefcake) must team up with his mischievous sociopath of a brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston, saving the movie) to battle an ancient evil (Christopher Eccleston, unrecognizable). I had fun because I didn’t expect to. (112 min)

22 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

much of a bad thing, but not dull. My only criticism is the same I had of Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring. While these true stories and twisted characters are diverting

RUSH

NEW

WRECKERS

NEW

Ron Howa rd ’s crowd-ple a si n g auto-racer focuses on the famous 1976 Formula One rivalry between the handsome Brit playboy James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth, good) and the methodical, antisocial Au st r ia n tact icia n Ni k i L auda (Daniel Brühl, better). The racing scenes are top-gear, but the appeal for adults in this furiously fast flick is in the warts-andall dual character study (neither man is favored), and on what happens off the track. I don’t mean their wives and loves (a tad dull) but in the symbiosis that made these two complete opposites tick, and win. Works both as drama and as spectacle.

(123 min)

The apparently loving David and Dawn are repairing a rural fixerupper after returning to David’s hometown in rural Kent and struggling to make a baby. Their lives are disrupted with the appearance of David’s younger brother Nick, an Afghanistan vet not without a few neuroses. Nick knows, and shares, all the town’s secrets, and we soon learn that David may not be the rock he seems to be. This is one of those accomplished films of brooding disquiet and sexual tension the Brits do so well (and often), showcasing this time the wonderful talents of Benedict Cumberbatch, Claire Foy and Shaun Evans. Japanese title: Mystic Eyes (86 min)

BORN OF WAR

T h e a m b it io u s Vi c k y Je w s o n wrote, produced, directed and attracted financing for her first film before she was 22. This is her second, and she’s still under 30.

That’s impressive. The woman’s got a future in the movie business.

But if this half-baked action conspiracy is any indication, that future will be in film production, not direction. Despite coercing James Frain to star in it, every sloppy scene fairly screams “film school project!” Neither film has achieved anything but a token theatrical release. I’ve seen some fledgling directors do a lot with very little. This is very little with very little. (90 min)

for a while, three hours is a long time to spend in the company of such douchebags. Made me want to take a shower. (180 min)

SNOWPIERCER

NEW

THE EAST

NEW

Okay, let me see if I ’ve got this straight. After a botched high-tech attempt to halt global warming results in a frozen planet, mankind is reduced to those aboard a single, never-stopping super-train. The haves occupy the front, the peons the back. Some have praised this all-star, high-end sci-fi/fantasy

by South Korea’s Bong Joon-ho for its “vision” and (rather obvious) top-down social symbolism. I am not among them.

Imaginative, maybe, but mostly just silly. That said, I’d watch it again for Tilda Swinton’s hilariously grotesque performance as a mid-management fascist. Tilda? Hilarious? Who knew?

(125 min)

I nvolv i n g spy d ra ma f rom Z a l Batmanglij ( Sound of My Voice) follows an undercover field agent for a high-end private intelligence company (Brit Marling in a complex role) as she infiltrates the title eco-terrorist cult. As can happen, she begins to feel sympathy for those she’s spying on, and begins to question her mission. At times a suspenseful spy romp, at others a prickly political rant, this one’s hard to classify, but there’s no shortage of ideas floating around. While tonally uneven, it’s got brains and guts galore. It may start arguments, but they’ll be worth having. A Movie that Matters.

(116 min)

ROOM 237

And here you thought T he Shinin g was just a movie ! The five obsessives interviewed here are convinced the director was imbedding clues in the film, for which they confidently advance interpretations that range from the vaguely lucid to the outright bonkers. A comment on the Holocaust or American Indian genocide. A subliminal message on twisted human sexuality. Hidden minotaurs, numerology, carpet patterns and, my favorite, Kubrick’s coded confession that he faked the Moon landings. None convinced me that their hidden meanings were either meanings or hidden, but it’s still a fun sit. (104 min)

THE WOLF OF WALL STREET: © 2013 PARAMOUNT PICTURES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; AMERICAN HUSTLE: © 2013 CTMG PHANTOM FILMS; RUSH: © 2013 RUSH FILMS LIMITED/EGOLITOSSELL FILM AND ACTION IMAGE.ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; SNOWPIERCER: © 2013 SNOWPIERCER LTD.CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; WHAT MAISIE KNEW: © 2013 MAISIE KNEW, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; WRECKERS: © 2011 WRECKERS LTD; THE EAST: © 2013 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX; THOR: THE DARK WORLD: © 2014 MVLFFLLC. TM & © 2014 MARVEL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; BORN OF WAR: © 2013 BORN OF WAR LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; ROOM 237: ASMIK ACE; WE’RE THE MILLERS: © 2013 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC.; BEFORE MIDNIGHT: © BEFORE MIDNIGHT INC,PHOTO BY DESPINA SPYROU.; ENDER’S GAME: © 2013 SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.; THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE: © 2013 LIONS GATE ENTERTAINMENT INC. ALL RIGHTS.; ESCAPE PLAN: © 2013 SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; EIGA: © SAKUKO FILM PARTNERS; MOVIE NEWS: KEVIN MCGUE; CINEMATIC UNDERGROUND: © 2013 BIANCAFILM LICENSED BY RAI S.P.A. – ROME, ITALY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ENDER’S GAME

Well, it’s a pre-teen war-gamer’s p e r fe c t fa nt a s y. You n g E nde r Wiggin (Asa Butterfield—Hugo) is forcibly recruited for his uniquely a g g re s s ive v i d e o - g a m e s k i l l s (children are apparently more intuitive) to defend Earth against a second attack by these ant-like alien thingies. To me, having not read the probably better kid-lit source material, this was two hours of repetitive video-game-like training sequences followed by repetitive video-game-like battle sequences, interspersed with a lot of speechifying by Harrison Ford (also Ben Kingsley in a cameo), and all to an intrusive, bombastic score.

Snore. (114 min)

WE’RE THE MILLERS

Happy pot dealer (Jason Sudeikis) gets his inventory ripped off, and to atone (a nd avoid death ) he must mule in “a smidge” of weed from Mexico. Realizing that dorky families in RVs rarely get hassled at the border, he recruits a stripper (Jennifer Anniston, fine at 44) to be mom, along with a street girl and a neglected teenage neighbor kid, to be the title decoy family.

Of course they inevitably bond, etc. In terms of originality or surprises, this one is all seeds and stems. But probably due to low expectations, I had a few good yucks. Hardly a recommendation, but I’ve sat through far worse. (110 min)

eiga

HOTORI NO SAKUKO

By Rob Schwartz

K

oji Fukada is seen by many as the crème de la crème of the young Japanese filmmakers. His Hospitalité picked up the Japan Eyes award at the 2010 Tokyo International Film Festival (despite being overtly racist in this reviewer’s opinion) and Hotori no Sakuro his third feature, has been receiving plaudits around the world. An homage to late French master Eric Rohmer, the piece is a meandering July-August saga set in a beachside town. 18-year-old Sakuko (Fumi Nikaido) and her aunt Miki (Mayu Tsuruta) return to the latter’s hometown so the teen can study for her college entrance exams and Miki can finish translating an Indonesian novel. Ne’er-do-well Ukichi (Kanji Furutachi), an ineffectual hoodlum who now manages a love hotel, starts dropping by often and hints at past affairs with Sakuko’s mother and Aunt Miki. As Sakuro gets into the rhythm of life in the town, she is charmed by Ukichi’s nephew Takashi (Taiga), and starts exploring the environs. Leisurely and realistic, these strengths are also the film’s weakness as it drags and wanders into boredom and the realizations don’t pack enough punch. Subplots around Ukichi’s daughter Tatsuko (Kiki Sugino), a visiting academic she hooks up with, and Takashi’s flight from the Fukushima disaster occasionally add flavor but also sometimes detract focus. Good fiction films show us reality heightened to the point of insight, but this film could use some more intensity. International title: Au Revoir L'eté (125 min)

movie news BEFORE MIDNIGHT

I t ’s a m a z i n g , r e a l l y, R i c h a r d Linklater’s unintentional triptych of films chronicling a love affair at nine-year intervals. Jesse and Celine (Ethan Hawke & Julie Delpy) met at 23 in Vienna in 1995 in the love-at-first-sight Before Sunrise, which was meant to be a one-off. 2004’s Before Sunset was about second chances, and this one about the realities of keeping love alive. All three are talky but thoughtful and convincing. Best of the three? Beside the point. They’re symbiotic. But the banter is riskier and more real. You don’t watch these movies; you witness them. Can’t wait for 2022. (108 min)

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE

This may be one of those rare sequels that are better than the first film. Katniss is finding her victory in that film’s lethal Games to be not without emotional scars, considering that she had to kill 22 people to achieve it. Now she has been enlisted by the despotic President Snow for a PR campaign to disabuse the oppressed masses of the notion that she may represent rebellion. And she has to enter another battle to the death, this time against an all-star array of past winners. Not only did I like this one better, its cliffhanger ending made me hungry for the next installment. (146 min)

ESCAPE PLAN

The Italian Stallion and the Governator both tanked in their action comebacks ( Bullet to the Head and The Last Stand ). This tag-team nonsense is about what you’d expect from the inevitable, market-mandated pairing of the two (unless you expect surprises). Sly’s a professional escaper from prisons, you know, to check their security. His latest job turns out to be a set-up, and he’s stuck in a comically secure CIA facility. Shwa-chan’s the savvy inmate he recruits to form an (see title). Yes, I know it’s just stupid fun, but although I was never a fan, don’t these two action icons deserve something better? (115 min)

W

hen Ron Howard recently visited Tokyo for the Japanese premiere of his latest directorial effort Rush, it was something of a second homecoming for the film.

The drama focuses on the intense friendship and rivalry between '70s racing drivers Niki Lauda (played by German actor Daniel Brühl) and James Hunt (Aussie Chris Hemsworth) with the climactic scene set at the rain-soaked Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka. “We were shooting the races in England and we had very limited time when we could be on these Formula One tracks,” Howard recalled. “Fortunately it was England and there was a lot of rain and I would say, ‘we’re not going home guys, we’re going to Japan’ and we would work on those scenes.” Mount Fuji was digitally added in the background to complete the look. The director says the sequence is his favorite in the film and the fact that the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix is so well known, especially among Japanese fans, provided a special challenge. “There was the combination of the demands of recreating that mythic race and also linking these complex characters emotionally in the outcome of that race.” Filming high-speed car races in real rain is something most directors wouldn’t even attempt. But after over a half century in the business, Howard says, “I am at the point in my career when I want some challenges.” Kevin Mcgue

cinematic underground

F

ans of soul-searching cinema in the vein of Eat Pray Love will want to tag along with the Italian drama Viaggio Sola (I Travel Alone; pictured), screening at Bunkamura’s Le Cinema (2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku; www.bunkamura.co.jp). Margherita Buy plays a 40-something hotel critic who travels to the great resorts of Europe, only to catalogue every little thing the staff does wrong. When her work routine is disrupted, she is forced to take stock of her own life… Prolific French auteur François Ozon returns to his common themes of youth and eroticism with his latest film Jeune & Jolie. It tells the story of a sheltered 17-year-old girl as she matures, segmented with four songs for the four seasons, on from February 15 at Ginza’s Cine Switch (4-4-5 Ginza, Chuo-ku ; www.cineswitch.com) and Shinjuku Piccadilly (3-15-15 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku; www.shinjukupiccadilly.com)...The Tokyo Northern Life Festival presents Scandinavian features, shorts and docs, February 8-14 at Shibuya’s Eurospace (1-5 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku; www.eurospace.co.jp). The lineup includes the Icelandic film Of Horses and Men and a program of documentaries on Moomin creator Tove Jansson. www.tnlf.jp KM Unless noted, Japanese films screen without English subtitles. Non-English language films are shown with Japanese subtitles only. #1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 23

Dining Out THE LATEST DISH ON FOOD & DRINK IN THE BIG CITY

JEFF W. RICHARDS

bar review

restaurant review

3 hidden havens at this Keio line stop

French-style pancakes in Yokohama

By Kevin Mcgue

By Jeff W. Richards

SASAZUKA SIPS

J

ust down the road from its better-known cousin Shimokitazawa, the Sasazuka neighborhood has its own Bohemian feel, with funky recycle shops, Tokyo’s coolest bowling alley (www.sasazukabowl.com) and countless small bars tucked away on side streets.

We headed out on a Thursday evening to get a jump on the weekend and were pleasantly surprised to find the area lively enough to have a good time, but not so packed that we would have to worry about finding a place with empty tables.

Our first stop was Home (2F Sasazuka YK Bldg, 2-12-14 Sasazuka, Shibuyaku. tel: 050-5798-9468), an appropriately-named, down-to-earth restaurant with a tatami room in the back. The low prices of its signature pizzas (all ¥500) had us a bit worried that we would get some rubbery microwaved slabs, but we were pleased with the ultra-thin crusts topped with novel flavor combinations like asparagus with mustard, cream cheese and fresh tomato (pictured). Extra toppings were just ¥100, making us feel free to experiment, and we also ordered some pickled seasonal vegetables (¥380) to nibble on.

The drinks are uniformly priced at ¥300, and we washed our 'za down with a few Sapporo Black Label drafts and some highballs.

Walking down the shotengai a bit further, we arrived at the plain wooden door of Rim Shot (B1 Takizawa Bldg, 2-41-17 Sasazuka, Shibuya-ku. www. bar-rimshot.com). Coming directly from the cut-rate Italian joint, our second stop immediately struck us as a typically staunch Japanese shot bar (with suitably corresponding prices), complete with a wall of perfectly arranged bottles. We knew we were in for something special, though, when our bar stools turned out to be famed black-and-chrome, cube-shaped Le Corbusier LC2 armchairs. The background piano music was set to a diminutively faint level and the lighting extremely low-key, but when the ever-attentive barman noticed us pull out a notebook, he immediately produced a small brass desk lamp. Talk about omotenashi. In a city dominated by whisky bars, it was refreshing to find one with an impressive selection of cognacs. We ordered a Paul Giraud Vieille Reserve (¥1,400) and the bartender recommended a Cognac Tesseron The Great Smoker (¥2,000), which is in rare supply after critic Robert Parker rated it at 99 points. The cigar list was tempting and we gave into a Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto (¥1,400), while making a mental note to return for the live jazz nights every third Saturday.

We ended the evening only slighty farther down the road at Kaseda Tequila & Coffee (3-19-5 Sasazuka, Shibuya-ku. www.tequilacoffeekaseda.com).

Perched at the top of a long, narrow staircase, the bar has a sign at the entrance asking visitors to remove their shoes. Since the tables are Swedish artillery cases and the chairs are cushions on the floor, we felt as if we were hanging out a friend’s place—albeit a particularly hip one with more than 30 varieties of cactus liquor at his disposal. One of our party was a bit disappointed to learn their first choice was sold out, but pleased that the Don Julio Reposado (¥750), could be served with sangrita ("little blood," ¥350). This spicy chaser made with citrus, tomato juice and Tabasco is a relaxing way to nurse a tequila and will make you wonder why you ever did lemon wedge and salt shots in college. As we enjoyed our drinks and stretched our legs, we realized that if this were in Shibuya or Shinjuku, it would be packed with more seats than is comfortable or we’d be in a long queue outside waiting to get in. But in Sasazuka—we were sitting pretty.

24 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

BUTTER

B

right sunlight splashes onto the white-colored walls of the new restaurant Butter at Bay Quarter, the ship-themed shopping mall on the water at Yokohama station. For the folks outside, it’s a lazy sunny wait in a long queue as the the Sea Bass pulls in and out, ferrying people off to—and in from—Yamashita park, the Red Brick Warehouse and Minato Mirai. They're all here for pancakes, and we're well into ours.

The brunch-style menu here is based around fresh Hokkaido ingredients: its namesake, nama cream, yogurt and flour. Apart from basic flapjack grilling, the French flair of the soufflé brings it all together. We jumped right into the kamadashi (in the pan) triple berry cheese pancake (¥1,200) and the savory bacon and tomato omelette with potato pancake (¥1,480).

The kamadashi arrived still settling in its cast iron pan. Topped with a liberal spread of fresh whipped cream, strawberries, blueberries, a whole-fruit raspberry sauce and a dusting of icing sugar, it looked every bit a dessert. It had a moist, velvety consistency and the berry sauces were surprisingly not overly sweet. The omelette and potato pancake was simple and understated.

Served plain with an anchovy-infused butter on the side, the dish was more than a little bland. We found the fishy spread overpoweringly strong and stuck with simple salt-and-pepper seasonings to jazz up what's basically a run-of-the-mill combo.

We couldn't resist ordering the kamadashi soufflé pancake (¥1,180) and since it takes 30 minutes to bake, we ordered the murasaki imo (purple sweet potato) Mont Blanc with a caramelized pancake and nama cream (¥1,450). If that weren't sweet enough for you already, it also hides Hokkaido fresh-made ice cream under the crispy candied topping and pureed purpled potato paste.

The soufflé was served in its skillet and accompanied by sides of fresh cream, ice cream, maple syrup and a fat dollop of butter. Piping hot with a fluffy, creamy and angel food soft melt-in-the-mouth texture—this is the art of the decidedly simply pancake. Aunt Jemima this is not.

The dishes are certainly photogenic and get extra marks for looking J Menu in Japanese exactly like their glossy promo pho ¥800-1,500 tos. So if food porn is your thing, there is plenty of consenting subject Smoking area matter to clog your Facebook and

All tables equal, but against the wall Instagram feeds. if averse to sunlight I f you haven't had neg l ibl y nutritious hotcakes in a while, it's Sunny decor, food porn-olicious, real soufflé disconcerting how delightful a little f lour, eggs and milk can be. That Long queues, takes “sweet nothings” said, you're also in danger of falling to a whole new level into a diabetic coma after finishing off a whole serving.

2F Yokohama Bay Quarter, 1-10

Kinkoucho, Kanagawa-ku, Go with friends and share—then Yokohama go for a long, vigorous walk around the beautiful Yokohama waterfront Open daily 10am-11pm area to stimulate insulin production. www.butter-pancake.com We want you portside, not portly.

BITES Dining Out

plum lucky

sprinkles

A greasy cheeseburger and a mountain of fries is great as a decadent lunch, but what if you want to put a healthier spin on your meal? The 3rd Burger has you covered with offerings that include ample lettuce, tomato slices and other veggies. Their eponymous burger (¥550) features komatsuna (mustard spinach) and homemade tartar sauce.

Other options have distinctly Japanese flavors, including their avocado wasabi burger (¥520) and the edamame and kidney beans burger (¥490).

Meat-free “salad burgers” include gobo (burdock root), ¥410 and avocado (¥490). You can wash it down with a smoothie (all ¥500) in flavors such as tomato or carrot. The Omotesando location has already attracted a dedicated OL clientele and a second shop has opened at Roppongi Ark Hills. www.the3rdburger.com/

While almost all izakaya offer one, or possibly two, varieties of umeshu (plum wine) at the bottom of their drink list, fewer places offer a more substantial selection of the sweet alcoholic nectar.

Just opened near Tokyo station, the short sightedly named Umeshu Bar 2014 (1-3-22 Yaesu, Chuo-ku. tel 03-3271-1135) offers a dazzling array of 25 different types of plum liquor from Nakano B.C., a top maker in Wakayama Prefecture. The lineup includes Beninankou, the winner of the first annual Umeshu Grand Prix and varieties flavored with lemon, strawberry and ginger. The food menu is also designed around umeshu, including a shabu-shabu set featuring Yamagata beef (¥4,800) and boiled tofu served with konbu broth (¥600). w w w. h a n a g o y o m i - r y u . j p / t o k y o / u m e bar2014.html

Why pray for success when simply sprinkling some furikake on your rice can help get you there? Tenoritama furikake’s popular mascot Piyo-chan is joining hands to root for students during exam season in this limited edition portable shaker (¥158). He is also willing to part with his contents to add a bit of flavor to plain white gohan during long cram sessions. And each purchase comes with a chance to win a f luffy daruma version of the mascot with a blanket inside to keep you warm at night. Although this little guy is in your corner, don’t forget that actual studying is also helpful.

Sold at most supermarkets

soup

raw power

read my lips

If the way to a man’s heart is t h roug h h is stomach, then in Japan the best lubrication for the pro c e s s i s s ome t r ad it iona l brot h. T h is s m i l e -i n d u c i n g he a r t miso soup (¥294) from foodstuff maker Fufufu is a great idea for boyfriends and hubbies on Valentines Day. The soup mix comes in a cute red heart casing made from dried wheat gluten and hidden inside is dried pumpkin, okura and leek. Just pop it in a bowl or mug and pour in hot water. Alas, the heart disappears, but giving this as a gift should help you catch someone’s heart. Taiichi Izawa www.fufufunofu.com

Chocolate makers ChokoReko have raw chocolate down to an art...and a science. What the heck is raw chocolate you ask? It’s the uncooked bean or nib (also known as cacao) that is never heated above 45c during the production process. Also key is the use of palm sugar, a low GI alternative to the usual white stuff. Coloring is done with natural fruit powders and products are all additive-free. All that adds up to a healthy, natural option for Valentine’s Day. The exotic flavors— such as 76% cacao bitter mint, 88% bitter apple pie spice and 88% bitter basil—are delicious, intriguing… and in high-demand. Although items sell out quickly online, the company holds regular events in central Tokyo and has a shop in Saitama. www.chocoreko.com

Under the direction of French head patissier Stephane Vieu x, Décadence du Chocolat is always coming up with something innovative and its Love Kiss (¥750) exclusively for Valentine's Day 2014 is no exception. Shaped as plump, luscious lips, these confections have a bitter chocolate coating with a subtle sweet gradation to make it even more tempting. Inside are two filling layers—apricot jam and pistachio ganache—meaning it tastes as good as it looks.

Coming in a chic black and red jewel box, it will leave the recipient with no doubts about your feelings. Order by February 11 for delivery on Valentine's Day. www.decadence.jp

COURTESY OF CHOCOREKO

COURTESY OF DECADENCE DU CHOCOLAT

veggie burgers

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 25

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Open 24 hours • 180 people max for parties Roppongi: 2F Court Annex Roppongi, 3-2-13 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku.

Akasaka: B1F Floral Plaza Bldg, 3-8-8 Akasaka,Minato-ku.

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Visit our website for info on other Chinese Cafe Eight locations

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» Wide selection of music includes: rock, R&B, rap, reggae, hip-hop and more. » Live DJ events » No service charge » Full range of reasonably priced drinks & cocktails from ¥300 » Hot food and snacks including some African specialties » Sheesha, darts, karaoke and VIP room available » Friendly, relaxed service in English & Japanese » Private parties and bookings (up to 50 persons) » Exciting event schedule (see website)

Tel: 03-3441-9970 E-mail: stickersbar@gmail.com Website: www.stickersinternationalbar.com Facebook/Linked-in

Shinagawa-ku, Higashigotanda 1-16-10-4F (1 minute on foot from Gotanda station)

26 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Toei Asakusa line

JR Gotanda Station (Yamanote Line)

East gate

Sakurada Dori

Exit A6

Azabujuban ➞

Seven eleven Big Echo

La w so n

For parties and event bookings contact:

PAccounting • Auditing • IPO Consulting • Due Diligence

PTax • Tax Preparation • Tax Consulting • US Tax Filing • Accounting Services • Payroll Services

PVisa Attorney • Establishing a Company & Branch Office • Corporate Services • Immigration Services

More Than Twenty Years Experience

KASAI CPA 042-401-0342

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

Special Events Every Friday!

Takashi Kasai CPA Firm 4-1-2-302 Honcho, Kokubunji-shi, Tokyo support@kasaicpa.com www.kasaicpa.com

Roppongi's famous Chinese eatery

• Friday, Feb 14 – 8pm-2am “Anti-Valentine” Party NO ENTRY FEE Presented by DJ DA-HONDA from LATIN SUNDAY. Enjoy a hot and passionate Latin resort at P.C.M.

Craft Beer

DJs: DA-HONDA (LATIN SUNDAY) DJ SASA DJ YK a.k.a. Yo-Ske (NishiAzabu328, Quiet Party, FLIGHT) Special Guest DJ:LAVA

from ¥500

* Only on Marunochi

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

Order 3 Tsingtao beers, and get 1 free. Post a photo

of the restaurant on Facebook, and get 1 free Tsingtao. (3 people max.)

Open 24 hours • 180 people max for parties Roppongi: 2F Court Annex Roppongi, 3-2-13 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku.

Akasaka: B1F Floral Plaza Bldg, 3-8-8 Akasaka,Minato-ku.

03-5414-5708 03-6234-9788

Visit our website for info on other Chinese Cafe Eight locations

welcome@cceight.com | www.chinesecafe8.com out great night anda! For a ional crowd, ot G in r ba ternat Hippest ar! ly vibe and in with a friendSticker’s International B be to s it ha

» Wide selection of music includes: rock, R&B, rap, reggae, hip-hop and more. » Live DJ events » No service charge » Full range of reasonably priced drinks & cocktails from ¥300 » Hot food and snacks including some African specialties » Sheesha, darts, karaoke and VIP room available » Friendly, relaxed service in English & Japanese » Private parties and bookings (up to 50 persons) » Exciting event schedule (see website)

Tel: 03-3441-9970 E-mail: stickersbar@gmail.com Website: www.stickersinternationalbar.com Facebook/Linked-in

Shinagawa-ku, Higashigotanda 1-16-10-4F (1 minute on foot from Gotanda station)

26 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

Toei Asakusa line

JR Gotanda Station (Yamanote Line)

East gate

Sakurada Dori

Exit A6

Azabujuban ➞

Seven eleven Big Echo

La w so n

For parties and event bookings contact:

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.

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C R E A T E G U E S T H O U S E provides clean, comfortable, reasonable rooms around central To k y o a n d S a i t a m a . N o key m o n ey, a g e n t fe e , guarantor necessary. Rent i n c l u d e s a l l u t i l i t y fe e s , a s we l l a s i n te r n e t fe e s .

Contact us at 03-5155-7781. info@accommodationjapan.com www.create-gh. jp/

P R I VAT E F U R N I S H E D A P A R T M E N T S .

Odakyu line: MukogaokaYuen/Yomiuri-Land-Mae, 20/30min from Shinjuku.

Keikyu line: Hatcho-Nawate, 15min from Shinagawa.

1K~2LDK ¥58,000/ m~¥120,000/m. Tel: 0449 3 3 -7 0 0 0 E m a i l : m h @ minowagroup.jp w w w. minowagroup.jp/ minowahomes

2.2 RENT UNDER ¥200,000

SAKURA HOUSE. Leading multilingual real e state a g e n cy in Tokyo s i n c e 1 9 9 2 . O ve r 1 6 0 0 furnished apartments a n d g u e s t /s h a r e h o u s e rooms, from ¥52,000/m, utilities included.

No key money/guarantor/ agent fee. Contact us: 03-5330-5250 info @ sakura - house .com www.sakura-house.com

I C H I G AYA G R E E N C O R P. Two apartments available in furnished, three -story apartment building, s u n ny a n d q u i e t , s o u t h / north facing, many trees, small Japanese garden, 5 m i n w a l k f r o m s u b w ay station, 13min by bicycle to JR Shinjuku/Yotsuya stn.

R e n t : ¥ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0/m ( 2 K ). ¥ 1 2 0 , 0 0 0 ~ / m ( 3 K ) . Te l / f a x : 0 3 - 3 3 4 1 -7 8 7 5 M a i l : itto@itto-jinnai.com www. i t to - j i n n a i .c o m /g re e n / greencorp.html

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 n to r/ agent fee required.

N e w, c l e a n a p a r t m e n t s , s i m p l e c o n t ra c t sys te m , full English support. Call u s t o d a y ! 0 3 - 5 4 3 7- 5 2 3 3 www.japt.co.jp

FRI, MAR 7

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

RO PP O N G I/K AM IYA- C H O, 5 2 s q m , d i r e c t f r o m o w n e r.

Fourth-floor 1LDK+SIC, 2min from Roppongi-Itchome, 7min from Kamiyacho stn, brand-new interior, w/ new furniture, two aircon, mist sauna, washlet ¥180,000/m. No agent fee, etc. Call Pham at 080-5042-8597. pham5454@yahoo.co.jp

2.3 RENT OVER ¥200,000

American college student seeking homestay in exchange for language lessons. Hi! I am a college student coming to Tokyo and would like to find a short-term homestay family. In exchange, I can give English lessons. Please email me. szettle@ymail.com Room to sublet. Female European professional, 30, tidy and respectful, is seeking to sublet a room in a fully furnished apartment in central Tokyo. isiresol@gmail.com

2.6 BUY/SELL PREMISES TIRED OF PAYIN G R E N T ?

Minato Asset Management Co., Ltd. can help you find properties, get a mortgage, permanent visa, etc.

Diversified income properties also available. m u k a i @ m i n a to - a m . c o m 090-4123-1025 03-557982779 www.realestate minato.com

2.7 OFFICE SPACE

MONDEWORK TOKYO: serviced offices and share offices available from one month located in Ichigaya ( Yo t s u y a , K o j i m a c h i ) , 24/7 access, company registration, bilingual reception service. Facilities include free drinks, copy mac hine , TV, proje ctor, m e e t i n g r o o m s . Pl e a s e call 03-4455-7594. www. tokyoapartments.jp/ serviced-offices/

3 EDUCATION 3.2 JAPANESE TEACHERS

TOKYO APARTMENTS. Your one-stop housing solution throughout Tokyo. Providing serviced, furnished and unfurnished apartments, for both long and shortterm stays. Also providing relocation services, furniture rental, property management and sale s .

Please call 0120-957-920. www.tokyoapartments.jp

2.4 HOUSE SHARE MODERN THREE-BEDROOM FLAT S HARE surrounded by nature.

Ten-mat living room; kitchen, w/ microwave, big gas oven, two big fridges; internet; separate bath/ toilet; corner room, w/windows on two walls, available from Feb. tangoshinbashi@yahoo.co.jp

WEEKEND JAPANESE L E S S O N S i n B u n k yo - ku , To k y o , f o r b e g i n n e r s to advanced learners.

Fri e n d ly i n stru c to r, s m a l l c l a s s s i z e ¥ 2 0 0 0/ le s son . For detail s and booking, please visit http://jacademy.edicy.co. jacademy.jp@gmail.com

3.5 LANGUAGE EXCHANGE Chinese and English. I am from the UK and am studying Chn. I would like to make some language exchange friends. I am free on Mon and Fri, and on Tue-Thu evening. Meguro or Shibuya areas are best. galloway.james82@ gmail.com Chinese, English, French, Spanish. Hello, I’m a Japanese man, 20s, living in Tokyo, seeking someone who I can practice E, Fr, Sp, Chn with. I’d be glad to help you improve your Japanese. Please feel free to contact me. zeno77dst@ hotmail.com

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.

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 27

Danish , German , Japanese.

Hej and 'N Tag! JF, 30s, seeks Danes and Germans to help her with languages in Tokyo/Kanagawa through fun conversations over cups of coffee or just hanging out.

Please be nonsmokers, 30s preferred. codename107113@live.com Deutsch und Japanisch. J M seeks language exchange with someone who can teach me Ger. I can teach you J in return.

P r e f e r c e n t r a l To k y o o r Kanagawa. M/F ok. Native German speakers only. snowsurfsk8@yahoo. com English and Japanese. Hi, I'm a JF, early 30s, seeking a language exchange partner. I'm not a teaching professional, but if you are interested in studying with me, please mail me.

Female preferred. natsuki711@hotmail. co.jp 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, 36. gk24vbn8@ gmail.com English and Japanese. British man, Kanagawa or Tokyo, seeks Japanese for language exchange, friendship.

Prefer university-educated partner. spk3006@i.softbank.jp English and Japanese. Hi, I'm a Japanese guy. I work for a Japanese publishing company. I need to learn E

by Mar, because on Apr 1, I'm supposed to go overseas for work. Would you like to study at a cafe in Shibuya? pantoetc@i.softbank.jp English and Japanese. Japanese seeking native English speaker for language exchange in Tokyo. I can help you improve your Japanese. Irish is the best English for me, but others ok. mauvette24@hotmail.com English and Japanese. Hello. JF, early 30s, is seeking a native English language exchange partner, M/F ok.

Prefer the Shinjuku area. Please drop me a line if you are interested. flower. jptokyo@gmail.com English and Japanese. JF seeks a native English speaker. I studied E in the US, but need to improve my English for my job. I'm available after 7pm on weekdays around Shibuya. I'd be happy to help your Japanese! sunshine-246@ excite.co.jp English and Japanese. Japanese seeks native English speakers between Soka and Takenozuka for language exchange, E questions and daily kaiwa. Friendship only. No sexual emails, please. language_exchange3@ hotmail.com Fre nc h , Engli sh , Japane se .

European man seeking a language exchange partner to improve his Japanese. I can teach you Fr or E. Let's enjoy sharing our cultures and interests. Machida area preferred. understanding_life@hotmail.com German and Japanese. JF seeks Ger/J language exchange partner.

Seit Sechs Monaten lerne ich Deutsch aber ich spreche Englisch. F/M ok. gardenstate2005@hotmail.com German, English, Japanese. I am seeking a conversation partner with whom I can make logical, intellectual conversation in several languages, Ger and E preferred. Not interested in kinky fun. Thank you. mahavidya111@ gmail.com Thai, Japanese, English. Bilingual Japanese female, 37, seeking native Thai language exchange partners or study friends learning Thai. Beginner level. Also interested in private lessons.

Can meet weekday nights in central Tokyo. beer_hugs@yahoo.co.jp

3.6 LEARNING: GENERAL DRUM LESSONS IN ENGLISH from experienced Berklee College of Music graduate with 15 years of teaching experience.

Private studio with professional gear. I can also travel to your residence. Each lesson is recorded.

Located one stop from Shibuya. simpsondrumstudio@gmail.com

3.9 TEACH ME! Business Japanese teacher wanted.

I have passed the JLPT N2. Please email me with your hourly rate. I live in NishiKasai, Edogawa-ku, Tozai line. udawat@ gmail.com Indonesian teacher sought to teach beginner Indonesian to me (Japanese female, 30s). Shinjuku or Setagaya area. I can pay ¥1300/h. e-ri-no@ excite.co.jp Japanese lessons. Female, 30, seeks native Japanese teacher for ¥2000 for two hours, three times/ week. Roppongi Hills area. gulnaz. shiriyazdanova@gmail.com Japanese Skype lessons. Hi, I am an Indian seeking Skype lessons to improve my Japanese. I am preparing for the JLPT 2. chilljapan@gmail.com Japanese teacher sought, M/F ok, to chat in Japanese on some weekday mornings/afternoons. Preferably around my age (30-40) and near my residence (Akabane/Kawaguchi/ Nishi-Kawaguchi). I'm a WM, 38, with beginner/intermediate Japanese skills. martin30181@gmail.com

4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS 4.1 FURNITURE & FITTINGS Bed, Ikea, semi-double (120x200), six m/o. lyra_btz@hotmail.com Cabinet, Chinese-style (approximately H115xW100xD45cm), black lacquer, design of ornate birds and branches, brass hinges and fittings, two doors, central shelf, two drawers below, in very good condition ¥19,000. cpitts@ gol.com Mattress, Ikea Sultan Favang, as new, clean (90x200cm) ¥10,000. Pick up Sangenjaya. japanjohan@yahoo.co.jp

4.2 APPLIANCES Espresso machine, D e longhi EC200N-W, espresso/cappucino, hardly used. New ¥20,000. Sell ¥10,000. Pick up Shinagawa-ku or takkyubin at buyer's expense (weighs 3kg). perukunboy@hotmail.com Rice cooker, Zojirushi, '08, as new ¥9000. mizi2005@hotmail.com Vacuum, Hitachi PV-SL1, stand, compact, '08 ¥2200. Pick up Sangenjaya or buyer pays for delivery (Kanto area only). union-v@hotmail. co.jp Vacuum, AIM-R0B01, robot, white, new ¥5000. Pick up Shimokitazawa. aminimia@yahoo.com

4.3 SAYONARA SALE Sayonara sale! Wooden furniture, good quality, solid: Kosuga side table, bed frame, etc. Photos available. stonexrose@gmail.com Sayonara sale! Dishes, bowls, mugs, glasses from ¥50/each. Hand blender ¥1500. Light blue curtain ¥800. Plastic shoe rack, ironing board ¥500/each.

Humidifier ¥1000. Pick up Tokyo area. Details and photos available. acapulco58@hotmail.com

4.5 AUDIO & MP3 Headset, Bose Mobile MIE2i, as new.

New ¥13,650. Sell ¥7500. Chakubarai. perukunboy@hotmail.com Speakers, Marantz LS183, wallhanging ¥3000. hatoh16@gmail.com

Snowshoes, Redfeather Redtail (20x64cm), aluminum V-tail frame, never used ¥9000. Pick up near Yokohama. sayonara_vancouver@ hotmail.com

5.3 MUSICAL EQUIPMENT Electric guitar, Fender Stratocaster, Japan model, hardly used, w/bag, amp, stand. New ¥85,000. Sell ¥35,000/obo.

Tokyo. jimmybeard83@gmail.com Equipment sale! Drum brushes, two pairs; one mini mic stand; two 5M midi cables, never used, one in original package; USB Korg Kontrol, never used, in original box ¥13,000/ all. Photos available. earth_travel_joy@ hotmail.com Guitars, two available: Yamaha, w/ hard case ¥6000. Westone, w/soft case ¥7000. hatoh16@gmail.com Room correction software , Arc, for mixing, w/pro calibrated measurement mic, multi-platform Mac/ PC measurement software, RTAS, VST, AU DAW correction plug-in, original box ¥20,000. Photos available. earth_ travel_joy@hotmail.com

Documentary on religion needs interviews. Assassin Wolves Films is in the process of wrapping a featurelength documentary on religion and we are seeking a couple of interviews to polish the film. Religious or atheists both welcome to apply! assassin. wolves.films@gmail.com

10.2 SUPPORT

NEED TO TALK? We’re here to listen.

TELL LIFELINE: free, anonymous English counseling daily from 9am-11pm by trained volunteers: 03-5774-0992. TELL COUNSELING: affordable multilingual p syc hothe rapy by acc re dite d Western-trained professionals, a CIGNA International Provider: 03-4550-1146. TELL website: www. telljp.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @TokyoLifeLine.

Golf clubs, Callaway BigBertha, irons, putter, some drivers, new carbon shafts w/new grips, w/ clean golf bag. New ¥60,000. Sell ¥10,000. d.soon@as1group.com 08050218308

13 CLUBS & INTERESTS

5.6 COLLECTORS Dom Perignon, vintage 1978 ¥40,000/obo. Photo available. biancakings@yahoo.com

7 GENERAL 7.3 MISCELLANEOUS Cutlery, from ¥100 shop, w/table knives, forks, spoons, teaspoons, five pieces each. New ¥2500. Sell for cost of shipping. michalhrouda@mac.com Nicorette gum, fresh mint, 2mg, 630 pieces (21x30-piece boxes), expires autumn '14. New ¥45,000.

Sell ¥15,000. Meet Shinagawa or send chakubarai. perukunboy@hotmail. com Suitcases, large and small, five y/o, casters slightly worn, otherwise in good condition, good for one-way trip home. New ¥25,000. Sell ¥5000/both. michalhrouda@mac.com

7.4 ITEMS WANTED Records. Budding musician in need of sample material. Give me your old records - the more obscure or strange, the better.

I’ll pay for postage. mallon_robert@ hotmail.com 080-6497-5403 Vinyl records, LP collections.

Japanese-pressed LPs, EPs and singles from the '60s, '70s, etc., any genre considered. Will pay cash for quality items. brian.greenough@jcom.home.ne.jp

THE JAPAN HELPLINE, 24 hours a d ay, fro m a ny wh e re , a b out a ny t h i n g . Fro m e m e rg e n c y assistance to simple questions.

Visit www.jhelp.com/ and press “ he lp,” or call 0 570 - 0 0 0 -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

11 MESSAGES 11.1 PERSONAL MESSAGES

8 COMPUTERS 8.2 HARDWARE Keyboard, wireless, 2.4GHz, w/ trackball mouse, function keys for music player, volume, etc., good grip for use without table, in good condition ¥3000. Pick up Sangenjaya or Shibuya. japanjohan@yahoo.co.jp Monitor, I-O Data, 15", white, older but works well, w/Win XP Home Edition ¥4500. earth_travel_joy@ hotmail.com

10 HELP! 10.1 HELP ME

WRITE A M ES SAGE FOR YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE! Write anything, from birthday messages to proposals, and so much more!

Contact us through our website at http://classifieds.metropolis.co.jp.

12 SOCIAL SCENE 12.1 LET'S PARTY

CHILD MODELS WANTED TO HELP COMPLETE WEBSITE . Please help me complete this site: www. nadia-co.com. There is no reward, but I will give you the photo data for your use. Nationality doesn't matter. Seeking four-five families.

This site can only be completed with your cooperation. info@nadia-co. com

JAPAN I NTE R NATI O NAL PARTY - Winter Festival.

Sat, Feb 22, 6:30-9pm, Devi Fusion (Roppongi). Japan's biggest international party.

250 people expected. All-youcan-drink and free snacks.

P L AY R U G BY. T h e To k yo C ru s a d e r s a re a fri e n d ly b u t keen international rugby club.

D evote d to t h e g a m e a n d i t s social side, the “Cru” welcomes all players and supporters.

Established in 1990, the Cru plays in the Shuto League 1st Division. http://www.facebook.com/tokyo. crusaders www.tokyocrusaders. com TA M B O U R E L L I . U n i q u e n e w s p o r t fro m S cotl a n d . U s i n g a tambourine-like instrument as a racquet, players hit a shuttlecock.

We play two or three times/month on weekends in Meguro with many socials. Join us! More details: www. tamjapan.org/en/ info@tamjapan. org Badminton club in Tokyo. Small, international group seeks players from abroad. If you know basic footwork, strokes and play seriously, you could definitely enjoy playing with us. mune2006@hotmail.co.jp http://www. geocities.jp/mune_albat/page4.html Cricket. Cricket. Cricket! Play cricket with the Chiba Sharks Cricket Club!

Teams in JCA Division 1, Division 2, T20 and monthly indoor training. Indoor Winter League underway! Men/women, all nationalities, abilities welcome. Never too late to play! chibasharksinfo@gmail. com http://www.chibasharks.com

13.2 LEISURE AMERICAN FOOTBALL .

Nihon Unisys Bulls, X league C e n t ra l D i v i s i o n , s e e k s fit players w/ US college football experience for all positions. Practice every S at /S un from 10a m -3 p m (including meeting) in To k y o / S a i t a m a ( t i m e & venue subject to change).

Attendance at practice must be over 60%. Please contact for tryout info and send your profile to team admin. bullsxleague@gmail.com http://www.unisys .co.jp/ football/

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS TOKYO. If you have a problem with drinking, we can help. English-speaking m e e t i n g s d a i ly. 0 3 -3 97 1 -147 1 inquiries@aatokyo.org http:// aatokyo.org

4.7 FOR FREE

5.2 SPORTS EQUIPMENT

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 friend s and party with nice people in a friendly atmosphere.

Events in Tokyo (Ginza , Azabu, Roppongi) and Osaka. ¥1500-¥2000. http://english.gaitomo.com/ info@gaitomo.com

13.1 SPORTS

Cabinet/table, in good condition.

Pick up Minami-Azabu. togoshiblue@ yahoo.com

5 HOBBIES&INTERESTS

J a p a n e s e m e n : ¥ 4 0 0 0.

O t h e r s :￥¥3 0 0 0. M o b il e : http://getyourfriend.com/ mobile/ jiparty@hotmail. com 090-1735-5405 www. getyourfriend.com/

MACARTHUR HEIGHTS. Take a break where General Douglas MacArthur did! One hour from Tokyo by car or direct train. Beautiful cabins on the ocean, w/onsen, beach, shopping. housinginjapan@yahoo. com Free Japanese home cooking lessons. Japanese housewife offers free private home cooking lessons in English (women only) at her house near Kawasaki stn during the day on weekdays. You pay the cost of ingredients. tome.haruka-soushi@ ezweb.ne.jp Tokyo Public Bath Club. Let's share relaxing Japanese bath time at sento (public baths) in central Tokyo.

Everybody welcome! みんなで銭湯体験し ませんか？ lucky912lp@yahoo.co.jp

13.4 MUSIC JUST A 3MIN WALK FROM ROPPONGI HILLS, Club 360 is a large, modern health and fitness club. No membership or joining fee s . Personal training, physical therapy, fitness classes, massage.

Fo r a l l y o u r f i t n e s s a n d rehabilitation needs! info@ club360.jp www.club360.jp 03-6434-9667 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 AIKIDO IN EN GLI SH. Seidokan Aikido of Tokyo invites you to practice a modern style of aikido in an international environment. Sat, 1-3pm, Itabashi-ku, Toei Mita/Saikyo line. We welcome men and women, foreign and Japane se . dojo @ tokyoseidokan.com http://www. tokyoseidokan.com 03-5994-1185

Drummer and bassist wanted around Yokohama. We mainly play rock music and have rehearsals in Shin-Yokohama.

Any kind of player is welcome, so feel free to contact us. m_a_b1998@yahoo. co.jp Guitarist wanted for an original working band. Both recording and stage experience are a must. Prominded musicians are welcome.

Influenced by Oasis, Radiohead, U2, Coldplay, Teenage Fanclub, NIN, Evanescence, Ride, My Bloody Valentine, etc. jm7220@hotmail.com Japanese drummer seeking band.

Hi, I've been playing the drums since I was in grade two. I went overseas to play music (USA, AZ, Japan). I play rock, pop, funk, jazz, blues, etc. kosuke1016@ hotmail.com Seeking jazz member. Japanese male seeking jazz players for fun in the Tokyo area. I've been playing the alto sax for a couple of years. Still amateur, but want to play with others. Please feel free to contact me. yossynet@ra2. so-net.ne.jp

13.5 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT Reiki share. Non-profit Reiki share group, meeting twice/month in the Ueno area. Other healing modalities are ok, too. Free introduction available. inarichoureiki@gmail.com Zen meditation (Zazen). Join a small group of practitioners Fri evenings at Tokuun-in in Ueno. No Japanese ability necessary. Please make arrangements in advance by email, and check our home page. tokyozazen@jcom.home.ne.jp www. wgthorpe.com

#1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 29

Many more Classified ads online! Please visit classifieds.metropolis.co.jp guy who needs a smart woman to show him there is a special relationship two can share. deepcoralblue@gmail.com

14 PERSONALS 14.1 FRIENDS American couple seeking Japanese couple for fun times. Inquisitive mid30s American couple seeking hip Japanese couple for friendship and exploring Tokyo. Wide variety of interests! Please be fit, fun and willing to try new things! 日本語ok! cook_on_ wheels@yahoo.com Email/letter exchange. JF, 37, living in Tokyo. I may have Asperger's. I write and draw for kids. I also love Manic Street Preachers. miaowsch@docomo. ne.jp Going to concert together. JF is seeking company to go to a Travis (Scottish band) concert together on Mar 29 or 30 in Roppongi. If you're interested, or if you're a Travis fan, please email me. aubin-euclid@ezweb. ne.jp Healthy meals. Japanese female, 30, enjoys trying to have healthy meals, like organic and vegetarian food. I'm not a vegetarian - just trying to stay healthy.

Seeking company for enjoying meals.

Tokyo and Kanagawa. tky_jpn145@ yahoo.co.jp Lunch friends. Hi, I'm half-Caucasian American, half-Japanese, 29, from Hawaii. I speak Japanese. Living and working in Tokyo as an English instructor. I'm seeking lunch friends.

We'll have fun. julianhoward1995@ gmail.com New York Yankees fan in Tokyo area.

Long-time Yankees fan living near Machida, Tokyo, seeking to meet likeminded people who are also fans of the greatest franchise in all sports over food and drinks. bravo_2003@hotmail. com 080-6554-8688 Open-minded vegetarian friends.

I am an open-minded, multilingual Japanese female, late 30s, vegetarian, seeking veggie friends living in central Tokyo to hang out with. Mature people (30+) only, please. mahavidya111@ gmail.com Partner to tango (leader). Hi, I am a European female, early 30s, and I have recently moved to Tokyo for work. I am seeking a tango partner (leader).

Age not important. Real tango lover is a must. luisa_anita1983@yahoo.com

OFFER FOR METROPOLIS READERS!

Valentine’s special: Brazilian wax

Only ¥5,000!

Seeking friends in central Tokyo.

JF, early 30s, seeks friends to hang out with in central Tokyo. atkm92@ yahoo.co.jp

Valid until March 6

Nail

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Want to help your new friend? Hi! Japanese woman seeks a kindhearted person to check and correct any mistakes in my English resume. Please forgive me asking for help first. I'll be there for you, too. apriluuuu@gmail. com

14.2 MEN LOOKING FOR WOMEN A little dangerous! Seeking outgoing, adventurous, passionate, slender JF to tame this slightly dangerous, tall, good-looking SWM. He's really a good

Adding sparks! MWM, 40, seeking MJF, any age, for respectful, drama -fre e , c a sual , intimate , no-strings-attached relationship to spice life up. I'm 167cm, athletic build, attractive, down-to-earth. If interested, send mail and we'll go from there. drasekt@gmail.com Adult friend sought. Are you seeking an intelligent, romantic guy for conversation, comfort and great sex? I want the same thing in a woman. Can we meet and enjoy life together? Healthy, caring WM in Tokyo, late 30s. dechlan@hotmail. com American executive s e e ki n g companionship. White male, athletic body, 182cm, 85kg, good sense of humor, seeking physical relationship with a SJF or MJF, 20-45. Will treat you to a good time. Nice restaurants, nice hotels. Very respectful. skykingwilt@ yahoo.com American man. I'm a California-type American man seeking a cute, kind girl for fun. Let's have fun! よろしくお願 いします. bobo1yoyo@yahoo.com A m e ri c a n /Eu r o p e a n w o m a n sought. Female wanted who can speak good English, can drink and doesn't smoke for friendly conversation. Bar/coffee shop. minamibluesea@yahoo.com Are you young? Handsome blond American, mid-30s, ripped and athletic, seeking beautiful young lady under 30. I speak a little of many languages. My favorite curve on a woman... is her smile. Try it out. tokyoguy123@hotmail.com Attached WM seeking attached JF. WM, 38, fit, tall, great eyes, seeking an attached JF for daytime fun.

Weekdays in and around northern Tokyo (Adachi/Kita), or Saitama. martin30181@gmail.com Attractive Caucasian businessman seeks (only one regular) sex partner.

Even if just for sex, I need a partner.

Regular (possibly weekly), safe, discreet, well-mannered. vbcfgt@ hotmail.com Attractive Japanese male for SWF, attractive, with a nice smile. If you are interested in chatting over coffee or nice food, please contact me and let me know. I am looking forward to your contact. juniperten2013@ gmail.com Bad boy needs bad girl. Bad + bad = good! Fun-loving, outgoing, goodlooking SWM, great kisser, needs the same in an attractive, slim SJF. Two bads can make one really good couple. Take a chance - you'll be happy! deepcoralblue@gmail.com Big is awesome. Do you think big ones are attractive? I'm Canadian, white, good-looking. Most importantly, I am very well-endowed.

Let's have a romantic winter season. big22cmlong@yahoo.com

Big, tall woman? Guy seeks tall, larger-than-average woman. Age, nationality and looks not important. spk3006@i.softbank.jp Boring OL job? Are you a JF who likes to be submissive? Do you enjoy light bondage with white men? You can feel excited with a spanking, then back to your boring OL job. jsn334@gmail.com British male, 31, friendly, tall, slim, seeking a nice girl to hang out with.

Nationality/race unimpor tant , but should be 20-35 and have a nice personality. Interested in music and film: you should be, too. shiodomebye@gmail.com British man seeking no-strings fun on weekends. Must be adventurous, interested in exploring new things. spk3006@i.softbank.jp British man seeking JF for friendship and maybe more, depending on if we click. Successful, kind, sexy and generally fun guy to be with. So definitely worth getting to know me!

Thanks. stalonelyheart@gmail.com Daytime friendship? Pleasant mature English WM would love to find friendship, language exchange and fun with a pleasant JF. Daytime is good, married is good. Check out on Skype? tempteccobox@hotmail.com Discreet and private for friends with benefits. Married Japanese male, 47, seeks a discreet relationship with a white female in Tokyo, 35-45, for spicy, fun and cozy times. I'm gentle, educated, 181cm, 76kg, ok in English. oer_1910@yahoo.co.jp Discreet friend sought by married but unhappy black American professional. meijibigone2008@yahoo.com Do you like aromatherapy and massage? I'm seeking others who enjoy relaxing, massage and other healthy activities, like yoga and meditation. I was a certified masseur in the US and have been doing massage for about 10 years. solar_confinement@yahoo.com English and Japanese. Canadian seeks JF university student to study E/J together. Contact me if you are interested. Let's have fun learning. togoshiblue@yahoo.com European gentleman, late 40s, tall, educated, good-looking, S, seeks M lady, under 30, with unusual fantasies, ready to explore the extraordinary.

One mouse click can make your secret desires come true! aminimia@ yahoo.com Exchange with web designer.

Foreign male seeking woman: I'll teach you English, in return, you teach me web design. Single, liberal-minded person preferred. Must be available to meet in Tokyo two-three times/ month. jj08@drivehq.com Fo o d , w i n e a n d r o m a n c e .

Attractive, outgoing, romantic, affectionate SWM, 40s, seeking ro m a ntic , e l e ga nt , at tra c tive Japanese woman for long-term relationship. I love cooking, dining out, movies, traveling and romantic weekends away. It's getting chilly

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now - let's warm each other up. herbsandspices1712@gmail.com Friendship with benefits. Single guy, 30, seeking a friendship-with-benefits relationship. Age doesn't matter, but slim preferred. I can speak Japanese. 宜しくお 願いします。 uniman@gmail.com Happy marriage, but almost sexless.

I am a man who loves his wife and his family. I have a good job and a good life.

A long marriage, though, means little sex. vbcfgt@hotmail.com Hola! Friend in Kanagawa. Tall Spanish man is seeking a kind, clean, financially secure lady living and working in the Kanagawa area. I am seeking a cheerful and mature lady for love. 日本語日常会話. jp_yoroshiku@yahoo.co.jp Indian gentleman seeking lady.

Indian businessman, 35, born in India, raised in the UK, seeking lady, any nationality, for friendship and more. Let's meet for a drink or meal. rohitkumar@ gmx.co.uk It's time to live a little. Attractive, youthful WM, late 40s, seeks a lovely woman. Tokyo is cold now. Let's do some things to keep warm together. I'm fun and kind. thechamchamtb@yahoo.com Japanese male, 41, single, seeks sincere, warm, open-minded white female for friendship and romance. I am generous, nonsmoking, like traveling, reading, philosophy and enjoying my life. skyoverture@mail.goo.ne.jp Japanese surfer, 30, seeking a SWF for language exchange. I like traveling, driving. I also would like to take you anywhere you want to go. dee_why77@ hotmail.co.jp JM seeking foreign girl. I'm easygoing and I would like to talk in English because I don't want to forget it. Let's do some fun things! Please mail me and we can exchange photos. Thanks. kosuke1016@ hotmail.com Kissin' the moonlight. In an open relationship, seeking a female kissing friend. I want to go to a place in a park or somewhere else. riku_hiroxx@hotmail. com Lazy weekends together? Seeking attractive and curvy girlfriend, 160cm+, who is fun to be around and seeking intimacy in the Tokyo area. I'm a caring Afro-American male from NY, 35, 183cm, shaved head, athletic build, working in IT. Interested? sbmmodel@yahoo.com

Long-haired Japanese guy. SJM, 40s, cool and honest, seeks nice female with the same interests. I enjoy movies, rock music, tattoo art, taking pictures, relaxing walks, etc. Let's get to know each other. seventh-heaven999@mail. goo.ne.jp Long-term relationship or marriage partner sought by SWM, 31. I speak Japanese and have a job at a large corporation. Love music, drinking, relaxing, travel. jay.marsh18@yahoo. com Married Western man for married Japanese lady. I am a married European man, 50, seeking a discreet, long-term relationship with a married Japanese lady around my age. I live in central Tokyo. chris.p27@outlook.com Married, but... Handsome, successful, fun UK man, 34, married, happy, but not satisfied, seeks single or married Japanese woman for coffee and conversation first. Let's get to know each other, then see what happens... honeycoming@hotmail.co.uk Married . G o o d - l o o k i n g a n d mannered but married and bored WM, 35, seeks Japanese lady in same situation, 30s or older, for spending some refreshing time together. Waiting for your contact.

Let's rediscover life again. sactica@ gmail.com Mature English guy se e king daytime friendship - conversation, language exchange, fun, etc. - with friendly and interesting JF, probably married. Maybe chat on Skype? tempteccobox@hotmail.com Mature European man for mature woman. Western man, 51, seeking discreet long-term relationship with a woman around the same age. I am tall, fit and physically attractive. Married/ taken only. chris.p27@outlook.com Mature Japanese lady. I'm an Australian guy, single, tall, athletic build, 45, well-established in Tokyo with a good job. I want to meet an interesting, mature Japanese lady around my age. soleman196@hotmail. com Mature man to mature woman.

Attractive, mature European man, 50, seeks a Japanese lover. I prefer somebody around my age (40s-60s).

I am highly cultured and like Japanese ladies very much. vbcfgt@hotmail.com Nothing at home. Can you help me?

Are you a nice, cute and friendly JF? I'm married, but no sex for years. Goodlooking guy, but trapped. Just touch me a little, that's all - can any woman help? jsn334@gmail.com

Like hairy chests?

You won't be disappointed.

PR holder, 41, working in Tokyo for a gaishike, loves mountains more than the city.

Interested? Then mail me.

Let us explore nature together. peter.o.japan@ gmail.com

Older Japanese women are so beautiful. As Japanese women age, they become more and more beautiful.

I love ladies in their 50s and 60s. vbcfgt@hotmail.com Opposites attract. Balding, brutallooking, but nevertheless kind, witty and fun Englishman, 40s, would like to entertain a slim, attractive, chatty woman in the evenings after work. E/J ok. gbeer2000@yahoo.com

Questions! Are you seeking a tall guy? Are you too stressed and need some fun? If yes, reply to me. jsn334@ gmail.com Rich guy seeks a white girlfriend.

Rich, generous, kindhearted SJM, 39, in Tokyo, seeks a white girlfriend. seven8877@hotmail.com Romance with an older lady. Very nice and sexy gentleman seeks an older, or much older, woman to have nice dates and a romance. feeltokyo@yahoo.co.uk Romantic moments together.

The cold winter season is here - let's keep warm! I'm seeking respectful women to share romantic moments together. Dinner, hot bath, oil massage, relaxing talk, a glass of wine... Things to give us energy! lifeistobeenjoyed@yahoo.com Secret dating fo r e n j oya b l e moments. Married Scandinavian WM seeks JF for discreet relationship in Tokyo. Wish to share enjoyable moments, a stress-free time for both of us to enjoy. I am a nonsmoker, charming, fit, good at sensual massage. lifeistobeenjoyed@yahoo. com Seeking a husband? SWM , romantic, reliable, independent, 40, is seeking an honest, attractive Japanese woman to get married ASAP. hok22jr77@hotmail.com Seeking JF. European guy, 40s, good-looking, easygoing, kind, fun, seeks JF for nice times. Nihongo hanasemasu. ziyadi66@yahoo.com S e e kin g m a rrie d アラフォー.

American gentleman, romantic type, seeks a married アラフォー lady for good conversation, friendship and more. Not seeking a onetime encounter. I want a discreet relationship with real feelings. togethertokyo@yahoo.com Seeking nice lady. I 'm fro m Australia. I am in my 40s, am tall, thin and have blue eyes. I teach English at a university. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu. ebattley@hotmail. com Seeking serious girlfriend. Nice guy from Europe, 40s, seeks only one serious girlfriend, 30s-40s, in Tokyo.

I like movies, music, dining out, nice drinks at nice places. Let's share great times. sinohe45@yahoo.com Seeking serious relationship. Hi, I'm half-Caucasian American, halfJapanese, 29, from Hawaii. I speak Japanese. Living and working in Tokyo as an English instructor. I'm seeking a serious girl. Thank you. julianhoward1995@gmail.com Serious relationship. I am tired of casual relationships. I am an attractive Japanese gentleman, 40s, sincere, seeking a serious lady who is caring and nice. Send me an email and I'll send you more info. toshinoris1012@yahoo.co.jp Serious, long-term. SWM, 34, well-educated and traveled, with a stable job, seeks true love. If you are

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20-30s, warm and caring and seeking a serious long-term relationship, then please drop me an email.

Serious only, no games. No Roppongi girls, please. Lasagna5577@yahoo. com

Still seeking batsu-ichi. I'm an African living and working in central Tokyo seeking a serious divorced JF for a serious friendship leading to a relationship. Must be serious. No junk mail, please. strike4me@yahoo.com

Sincere relationship. Single man from France, 30, likes movies, music, travel, cooking, seeks a serious relationship. 日本語でも大 丈 夫です. unparisienatokyo2014@yahoo.co.jp

SW foreign male seeking Japanese female. Seeking sexy, cute, gorgeous Japanese lady to have discreet sexual experiences with. Only those with photos need apply. imode001@hotmail.com

Single Japanese male, 40, seeks nice, friendly, open-minded, trustwor thy white female for friendship and romance. My interests are cooking, music and the infinite universe. caprices24@mail.goo.ne.jp

Sweet kisses. A kiss to take your breath away! Exciting, electric, handsome SWM wants to shock your system. Finally feel what it's like to have it all. Stop dreaming, start living! Let's see if there is truly magic between us. deepcoralblue@gmail.com

Single mother sought by married father with 5-year-old boy for meeting, having fun and speaking English on weekends with the kids.

Let's enjoy the beautiful days of winter together. Boy or girl ok. understanding_life@hotmail.com

Tall WM, with blue eyes, living in Tokyo, seeking a nice girl for a relationship and possibly more. I like outdoor activities, watching movies, music. I also speak some Japanese. chrischrisjapan34@yahoo.com

Too dangerous! Hot and dangerous SWM seeks JF ready to change her life with lots of fun and excitement.

Time to let the old ways go and embrace 2014 with a passion.

It's a new year - start a new life! nightwatchblue@gmail.com Wanted: attractive SJF. American male, intelligent, confident, gentle, good-looking, good sense of humor, medium height, solid build, secure income, seeking mature, educated, attractive, healthy, nonsmoking SJF for a meaningful relationship with possibilities. Preferably Tokyo area. Reply w/photo appreciated. ulysses2020@live.jp Warmer and warmer. Foreign male seeking a woman for a relationship based on mutual need and trust.

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You: under 36, nonsmoker, sincere, open-minded towards Asians. jj08@ drivehq.com

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Start with a luxurious dinner date,take the night where yo u wa nt it to g o. Fre s h , young women join our club every day. Try our free onemonth trial offer: first date is on us! 0120-675-858 (E) international@universe club.jp http://universe-club. jp/en Attractive yet intriguing. Woman, 40s, people describe me by these two words often. Totally natural, pure. Likes witty, interesting conversation. Seeking love and relationship with a sincere, educated European. Singles only. sputnik_sweetheart19@yahoo.co.jp Chinese man sought. Nice, cheerful lady is seeking a kind, generous Chinese or Singaporean man, 35-50, to share good times. If you are affluent and generous, send me a message and photo. shaggycat24@hotmail.com European? SJF seeks a European professional living in Japan or a Japanese businessman who has lived in Europe, 30s, for a serious relationship, possibly leading to marriage. Please email with self-introduction. Serious only. happyflower735@gmail.com Friendship. Hi, I'm a MJF, late 30s. It would be great if I could find someone from a different life to share thoughts, feelings and experiences. I'd like to call this friendship not flirting. Prefer an Asian guy. metro.classifieds1@gmail. com Full of feminine charm. Fit, greatlooking, a little over 40, sophisticated, seeks a professional, educated single American with a great sense of humor.

I get pleasure from giving you what a woman can offer - beauty, softness, intelligence. melogold_angel@yahoo. co.jp Indian boyfriend sought by a decent JF, late 30s, working/living in Tokyo. Any marital status ok, but friendship based on mutual respect first. Only one needed for longterm. Please be professional, 30-48, somewhat Japanese -speaking. memory273jp@gmail.com Japan-loving French guy. SJF seeks a French guy who loves living in Japan, 30s, for a serious relationship, possibly leading to marriage. I am caring, curious and open-minded.

Serious only. vinrouge735@gmail. com Love snowboarding? I'm an athletic, fun SJF, 39, seeking a guy who can have a big laugh with me. Serious only. enohpi4s@yahoo.ca Mature enough? A t t r a c t i ve , affectionate, multilingual JF seeks a mature, sophisticated, internationalminded gentleman to make life

32 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP

more interesting. We can multiply happiness by sharing. Love traveling, marine sports, yoga, music, reading, dining out, the finer things in life. icedcoconutmilktea@hotmail.com New days in Tokyo. S e eking someone around my age (30), single, independent. Let's start as friends first and see how it goes. Hope to have some common interests. Photo appreciated. Thanks. musicinlife@ excite.co.jp Please find me. Chubby Japanese female, mid-30s, living in the Kawasaki area, seeking someone who can treat me well. I will treat you as well as you treat me. happylovemusic0808@gmail.com Pretty bilingual seeks cultured American over 40. I know men are visual in nature, and I have no problem with that. SJF, mid-40s, enjoys looking and being feminine, gentle and soft outwardly, but sassy and very sexy inside. lm5tender@ yahoo.co.jp Seeking Frenchman for serious relationship. I'm a SJF, 30s, interested in France, seeking a relationship with a sincere and intelligent Frenchman, 25-45. No language exchange or games, please. Serious only. framboisier@inter7.jp Seeking professional man who is seeking a nice woman to enjoy each other's company. Caucasian man, 30-45 preferred. I am 30, Japanese, open-minded, tall and physically attractive. sreiko751@gmail.com Serious boyfriend. B eautiful Japanese wants to meet someone.

No married men, cheaters, casual relationships whatsoever. Prefer someone in the Ichikawa/NishiFunabashi area, 27-38, American.

I'm 36, with a professional job and multiple talents. gkr93mz@gmail. com Take me away. SJF, mid-30s, enjoys a stylish and healthy life, is tall and attractive, lives in Tokyo, seeks a sophisticated, honest, open-minded, attractive SWM with a great sense of his lifestyle. Would appreciate discovering new things together. antidotes.4u@ gmail.com Weekend date. Let's try and meet up for coffee. Single nonsmokers only. Thanks. tky_jpn145@yahoo. co.jp

14.4 GAY & LESBIAN Friends and fun. Japanese guy, 27, 170cm, 65kg, seeks friendship and fun in and around Tokyo. Looking forward to hearing from you. kcv@ hotmail.co.jp Secret friend. Very good-looking bi Japanese male, late 30s, seeking attractive top guy for discreet friendship. Discretion and safety are priorities. m1979jp@gmail.com Seeking friendship and maybe something more. I'm a JapaneseAmerican, 30, seeking lesbians like myself. I don't have many lesbian friends, so it would be great to meet some in the area. Hope to hear from you soon! youx08@aol.com

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14.6 AND OTHERS Adventurous lady. I am seeking an adventurous lady to join me at a private hotel sex party in Feb. Great food, drinks, fun couples, lots of naughty fun in a premium hotel. Make your fantasy come true. tokyoasmodeus@ gmail.com European master. Want to experience a real master? Travel with me. I will teach you new things. I can be kind and good, but only if you listen to me.

Email me if you are a good student. londonasian@hotmail.com I want to be a slave boy. Are there any sadistic girls out there? I want to be your toy/slave. Please mail me and let's start talking. kosuke1016@hotmail.com JF for threesome fun. Mixed JapaneseAmerican couple seeks an open-minded Japanese female, 25-40, for occasional threesomes. We are experienced, relaxed, fun to be with. Beginners welcome. Imagine the possibilities! simpleton2014@outlook.com JM, 22, living in Tokyo, seeks a woman to take the virginity of a man. Girls with big, soft boobs are more than welcome. ikumin1222@hotmail.com Love to serve? Tall, handsome English gentleman seeks a submissive female who wants to learn through rewards and punishment. yournewmaster1@ gmail.com Male sissy maid. I am a personal maid for women. I hope to meet a woman who can make use of my services and who might enjoy having her own maid to clean her house. I love to clean for women free of charge. alexinjapan1@ hotmail.com

Horoscope BY CATHRYN MOE

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ARIES

TAURUS

Busy public sector this week, meaning a lot of activity where you are seen, heard and noticed. Your chances to hide have evaporated and now it’s time to be your own sweet self. The power you wondered about is filling you with confidence. It’s real, too, so remember to thank your connection to the greater good and let yourself be the expression of strength in light. The fire of the heart is just beginning to nourish you.

This week starts out with the Moon in Taurus. That literally means you’re in your element, dear earth sign. Look at all those influences pulling you into your relationship sector.

There is Saturn, and the Part of Fortune, the North Node, and what’s that? Ceres has just joined in too?

Taurus, you are outnumbered. In the astrological sense, you are being taken care of. It looks like you’re doing it all yourself, but you’re not…so relax.

March 20, 21~April 19, 20 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

GEMINI

Apr 20, 21~May 20, 21 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

CANCER

May 21, 22~June 20, 21 ♥♥♥♥ ¥ ♣♣♣

June 21, 22~July 22, 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣

Gemini is in a funny place astrologically. Your first house of "self" is clear, and so is your sector of your significant other. That doesn’t mean you’re alone, necessarily, it just means you have wiggle room.

And that’s the only area where you can, because the rest of your chart is packed. Have any surprises around income? Yes, that’s Jupiter retrograde saying ‘let’s take a second look’. At Venus and Pluto and life-changing choices…

Cycles within cycles… is it all predestined or do you have a choice? Have you already made the choice deep within your soul and now you’re playing it out, to the best of your ability? Can you take a detour and find your way back? Do you even want to find your way back? Or would you like to try something altogether different? Dark Moon Lilith in your sign is saying ‘ask and manifest’ but Jupiter makes it feel like you’re going backwards…

LEO

VIRGO

The Sun opposite your sign brightens your day, night and love life. That is, if you are willing to expend your energy into another person’s life with a commitment. Otherwise, you’re dealing with the deep underpinnings of Pluto conjunct Venus in your house of work. Big money or no money. Life transformations and going for it.

Strength in inner light. And romance that changes you forever. You know. The usual.

You’re holding down the fort and your partner is all over the place. You’re using every possible new technique to hang in there and they are sloshing through a lifetime’s worth of emotions. Or you’re single because your earth sign boundaries were turning into mud.

There isn’t any way to think your way through this, even though you are ruled by Mercury. You must feel through the ethers and trust what you know.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Mars isn’t leaving your sign anytime soon. Usually it’s only around for over a month, but lucky you! You get to feel the rush for six more months. So if you’re wondering where the energy is going to come from to make the changes staring you in the face, worry no more. It’s a classic sense of being in the right place at the right time. Follow the path the best you can, and give yourself the nourishment to succeed.

Whatever you are doing, even if it looks like you’re moving backwards, trust the present moment. Things are in the midst of a big rearrangement and you are the lucky recipient. If you’ve done all you can but didn’t have time to check your homework, don’t despair. Ceres just entered Scorpio and she will make sure you have cereal on the table (or bagels with cream cheese, or toast and jam…whatever suits your fancy…).

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

Trust in higher guidance. Frankly, that’s one of Sag’s great strengths, being connected with the stars you keep sending your arrows to. Did you think they didn’t make it? Well, they did, and now you’re getting a response from the universe. Now you have no choice but to dance in the light. You can calm down. No one expects you to have all the answers or make everything right. Just show up. Standing optional.

Capricorn has been receiving secret strength and encouragement from Saturn in Scorpio. Tough, yes. Exacting, absolutely. But totally stabilizing and bringing a future you can count on. This comes from being yourself and ending up in the group energy where you actually belong. Scary? Uh huh.

A bit of traversing the underworld of shadows. But Ceres has just entered your sector of friends and you will make this work.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

July 23, 24~Aug 22, 23 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Sep 23, 24~Oct 22, 23 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣

Nov 22, 23~Dec 21, 22 ♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

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Friday Feb 14,11:30pm - 5am

@ Pasela Resorts Grande Shibuya

Music by Tokyo’s premier DJ:

Dwayne Wayne

Aug 23, 24~Sep 22, 23 ♥♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Oct 23, 24~Nov 21, 22 ♥♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

AISHA

6 VIP tables Featuring Laurent-Perrier champagne, a private bottle of Patron tequila and more!

For VIP reservations: info@metropolis.co.jp

Dec 22, 23~Jan 19, 20 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣♣

Jan 20, 21~Feb 18, 19 ♥♥ ¥¥¥ ♣♣

Feb 19, 20~Mar 20, 21 ♥♥♥ ¥¥ ♣♣♣

You don’t need to be distracted from your goals. True, you’re standing up for yourself, and there are fences being restructured along a new path. But all this wondering and feeling just ends up in so much confusion. Play in the etheric, fantasy, deenergizing realm to your detriment. What will help you most is being down to earth and facing the basics this week. Mercury moves retrograde in your sign Wednesday.

You can do this. Whatever it is that is flowing like water on your windshield, tears down your cheeks, laughter that won’t stop – you are meant to be a part of everything that is happening right now. Being where you are is perfectly timed. You know as much as anyone there are no accidents. Face your fears. They’re just puffs of smoke. Ceres chooses to back your desires of travel, teaching, and enlightenment.

Pasela Resorts Grande Shibuya Parco Loft

Gap

Tsutaya Hachiko

JR Shibuya St.

JR Yamanote line

Shinjuku ➞

www.pasela-shibuya.com/grande

Entrance ¥2,500/1D For more info:

http://metropolis.co.jp/events #1037 • WWW.METROPOLIS.CO.JP • 33

The Last Word

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

THE CUSTOMER IS GOD DELUSION

CHRISTI ROCHIN

The robotic nature of service in Japan can get decidedly less than personal

By Philip Patrick

Philip Patrick teaches English for a university in Tokyo

A

s an agnostic, I have never really felt comfor table w it h t he whole “customer is God” ph i losophy. I know I’m supposed to feel charmed, but I can’t help experiencing mild embarrassment as I am showered with “welcomes” and “thank yous” and “I’ll be waiting for your next visits” by shop staff in Japan, often when I have only dropped into their store to get out of the rain. Basically, I don’t think I’ve really earned it.

Almost every day I cut through the food hall of the Keio department store in Shinjuku station. I only occasionally buy anything, but receive the kind of cacophonous, collective welcome that was once reser ved for triumphant Roman generals returning from battle. You feel that if the positivity and enthusiasm of t he staff could only be harnessed, it could surely take care of Japan’s energy needs for decades.

And all this love could quite easily go to your head—I almost feel

the need for someone at my side to whisper in my ear: “Remember, you are only a customer.”

Many find all of this wonderful, especially visitors from countries with a more hit and miss service ethic—which, let's face it, is basically the rest of the world—but it has never quite worked for me. There is something rather unsettling about this scripted Stepford Wives style of service, where shopworn phrases straight out of the training manual are delivered in a squeaky falsetto with a predictably precise singsong cadence, over and over again.

For one thing it is a little insulting to assume I will be seduced by staff who put on the vocal mannerisms of giddy schoolgirls. It’s also incredibly boring, not to mention noisy, It gets almost painful to hear those sterile chunks of keigo, wrung utterly dry by endless repetition, barked at you again and again. I once met a young Scot newly arrived in Japan, who after three hours of shopping with his girlfriend, had his head in his hands—“If I hear that irasshaimase one more time…”

Reducing the idea of “service” to a cluster of soundbites, however polite in origin, has surely contributed to the terrible inflexibility on the part of staff whose drills prepare them to deal with only a very narrow range of requests. I once caused chaos in a karaoke bar by asking for a coke without ice. The poor girl looked traumatized, disappeared for twenty minutes, consulted with the manager and then returned to tell me this was not possible. Another one of those

IT GETS ALMOST PAINFUL TO HEAR THOSE STERILE CHUNKS OF KEIGO, WRUNG UTTERLY DRY BY ENDLESS REPETITION, BARKED AT YOU AGAIN AND AGAIN.” “Only in Japan” moments.

Ser v ice in Japan has become so robotic that it’s hard to imagine having a real conversation with a shop assistant—and believe me I’ve tried. Having done more than my fair share of menia l ser v ice jobs, and knowing how dull they can be, I assumed that staff here would appreciate the occasional little chit chat or joke, but most of my attempts have fallen very f lat indeed, usually prompting just a blank stare or even a look of panic.

Gaijin panic, perhaps, but also a sad indicator that there isn’t much room for maneuver in the straightjacket such a tightly scripted intercourse imposes.

In a count r y w it h one of t he highest suicide rates in the world, a chi l ling phenomenon usua l ly

attributed to the feelings of isolation experienced by many, you would hope that a greater value would be placed on real human contact.

I wonder how many lonely people in other countries are sustained by that five-minute chat with the landlord of their local pub or brief gossip with the man in the post office or local librarian. Tiny moments of real face-to-face engagement with a fellow human being, even with people whose names we may never know, can mean a lot. With workplace banter often prescribed or restricted by the seniority system and, in the cities at least, an absence of neighborliness the norm, it seems a pity to wall off yet another potential platform for genuine human contact, however fleeting.

So while one can only applaud the energy, the attention to detail, the fairness, the honesty and the sheer lack of attitude displayed by shop assistants in Japan, is it wrong of me to hope t hat t he y m ig ht loosen the straps on that straightjacket a lit t le, drop t heir g ua rd and the pitch of their voice, and— sometimes at least—just pass the time of day with me? After all, even the A lmight y must enjoy a good chinwag now and again.

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

METROPOLIS is Japan's No.1 English magazine, founded in 1994 and published for Japan’s international community.

It is the only English-language publication in Japan that distributes up to 30,000 copies per printed issue.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Neil Butler EDITORIAL Jeff W. Richards (EDITOR-IN-CHIEF) Kevin Mcgue (EDITOR) Lisa Wallin (EDITORIAL ASSISTANT) Anna Cock Gibson (PROOFREADER) Taiichi Izawa (INTERN) CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Dan Grunebaum (ENTERTAINMENT) Don Morton (MOVIES) C.B Liddell (ARTS) Fred Varcoe (SPORTS) DESIGN Kohji Shiiki (ART DIRECTOR) Davi Azevedo (DESIGNER) Minh Douangprachanh (WEB DESIGNER) PRODUCTION Helen Langford (PRODUCTION ASSISTANT) ADVERTISING Akane Ochi (DIRECTOR OF SALES) Karl Nakashima (SALES MANAGER) Kanae Mochizuki, Jonathan Grogan, Hinson Leung (SALES EXECUTIVES) Ai Hosokawa, Haruka Koda (INTERNS) ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING Jeanette Komatsu (MANAGER) Michiko Anezaki (ADMINSTRATION/CLASSIFIEDS) IT Guilhem Malfre (IT AND WEB DEVELOPER)

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