nagazasshi VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4
JAN/FEB 2019
ROMANTIC SPOTS ● UNIVERSITY LIFE ● BEAUTY & REGGAE ● GUESTHOUSES ● ART GALLERY
nagazasshi
VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4
JAN/FEB 2019
Happy New Year from everyone here at the Nagazasshi! We hope you enjoyed the winter holidays and that our previous issue gave you useful tips on how to keep warm as we continue on through this frigid season. We are now in 2019, Year of the Pig under the lunar calendar. So after you've picked up your fortune at the shrine and made your resolutions, we hope that you get a chance to read through our latest issue. February wouldn’t be February if we didn’t talk a little bit about romance. On page 4, the Nagazasshi provides you with a few fun places in the prefecture to go on dates (or visit with friends). Soak up views over Omura Bay, take a small cruise, or go on an interactive digital adventure. Miss your old college days? Always wondered what it would be like to study abroad? Turn to page 6, as Tasmin, Momo, and Rebecca take us through the life of an international exchange student in Japan. We’re also trying a new feature starting in this issue; Nagasaki Profiles! In this segment, we will be interviewing fascinating folks around the prefecture. For our first profile, we got to know Genki Kuwano; a DJ and hairdresser rolled into one. If you’re planning a weekend getaway on a budget, the Nagazasshi has you covered as well. Nagasaki is filled with affordable and unique guesthouses and we’re here to show you the best of the best on page 10. Lastly, we have always been very lucky to have many talented writers send us interesting articles, but, this time, we decided to take things in a different direction! On page 12, the Nagazasshi sends out love to the visual artists in the prefecture.
CONTENTS 4 ROMANTIC SPOTS IN NAGASAKI
Fun places to explore with friends or a loved one
6 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN NAGASAKI Get a look at how university life differs in Japan!
8 ARTICAL SOUND!
Thumping beats and fresh haircuts
10 NAGASAKI GUESTHOUSES
Great hostels to stay in around Nagasaki
12 NAGAZASSHI ART GALLERY
A special feature on artists in Nagasaki prefecture
14 NIHONGO ON THE GO DIRECTOR: Dominic Balasuriya ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Will Tiley EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Yeti Mallavi EDITORS: Andrew Haddow, Cassandra Fegert COPY EDITOR: Flipi Poggenpoel DESIGNER: Evan Hayden SOCIAL MEDIA: Emmanuel Feliciano CONTRIBUTORS: Tamsin Cody, Dan Cohen, Evan Hayden, Cassandra Fegert, James Graham, Yulia Kerme, Momo Kitahara, Yeti Mallavi, Carolina Marini, Will Morgan, Rebekah Mundell, Marc Mundy, Will Tiley, Philip Walker FOUNDERS: Andrew Morris, Matthew Nelson COVER PHOTO: Evan Hayden INSIDE-COVER PHOTO: Evan Hayden DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT UPCOMING EVENTS!
discover-nagasaki.com/spots/events facebook.com/VisitNagasaki/
Thank you again for your continued support. Happy reading!
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Yeti Mallavi
@nagazasshi
Editor-in-Chief
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Although celebrated a little differently in Japan, Valentine’s Day is still a popular holiday to spend with your significant other or a group of friends. Here are some unique ways in Nagasaki prefecture that can help make the most of this romantic time of year. TEXT: Yeti Mallavi PHOTOS: Yeti Mallavi, Dominic Balasuriya
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BETTER WITH FRIENDS Island Lumina, Nagasaki Just because you’re living your best single life doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy February’s atmosphere! When the sun sets, other things light up, especially on Iojima Island. Experience a mix of nature and technology as you participate in Island Lumina, an interactive digital-art exhibition by the Canadian company Moment Factory. Walk through 800m of forest as you help Yura, a young girl, search for an enchanted jewel stolen by a dragon who encased her island in darkness. The program starting time varies monthly, so be sure to check their website for details. While you’re waiting for the sun to set, Iojima also offers several things to do during the day, such as onsen, massage parlors, and delicious seafood. Be sure to check it out! https://www.islandlumina.jp ROMANTIC REST STOP Omurawan, Higashi-Sonogi It’s no secret that Omura Bay is beautiful. Dotted with islands and mountains in the background, it's truly breathtaking. But where is the best place to take in such magnificent views? One such spot is the Omurawan Parking Area (大村湾PA), the most romantic highway rest stop in the prefecture! The Omurawan PA is equipped with restrooms and a shop for food and souvenirs. Adding to its charm is a small park with heart-shaped benches and an arch that should give you some great photo ideas. Pack a bento and bring your camera to catch the sunset right in the middle of the arch for a truly lovely view. www.w-holdings.co.jp/sapa/2720.html (Japanese only) CRUISIN' ALONG 99 Islands, Sasebo Another romantic spot in the prefecture is at the 99 Islands (九十九島), part of the Pearl Sea Resort and Saikai National Park. Though named 99 Islands, there are actually 208, making it the largest archipelago in Nagasaki. One popular way to experience these islands is by taking a ride on one of the mini-cruise ships. There is the Pearl Queen, for those who want a calm, romantic setting as they sail through the waters; or the Mirai, for those who desire a more adventurous experience. If you’re the type who gets seasick on larger vessels, no need to worry! You can also try kayaking, fish feeding, and hiking in the area. http://travel.sasebo99.com/en/99islands.php
t ke a look a e m as we ta re o th ro n of o es m gh the ey the com Join us in d everyday life throu here in Nagasaki. t an , gh od ri fo ge l, an schoo on exch ts en d u st American
Tamsin is a second-year student from America. She is Chinese-
American and has traveled to Asia before, but she wanted to specifically come back to Japan to immerse herself in a different culture and experience independence. She wishes to continue studying other languages and work in international relations.
Tamsin on SCHOOL LIFE: The school system in Japan is different from community college in America, like the number of classes for example. In America, I attend only three classes each week, whereas in Japan I have different classes everyday, so it can become overwhelming. Secondly, many classes I have now require strong English language skills. As a native English speaker, I found these classes easy, but for native Japanese speakers who find it hard to communicate in English, I can only imagine how difficult the material can be. Also, I felt a stronger sense of community in clubs and at school festivals. I love the atmosphere at the school festivals because there’s always something interesting to see, do, and eat, and students really get excited about sharing their experiences with everyone!
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Momo is a 17-year-old Japanese-American high school senior that
currently attends community college. Born in California and raised in Seattle, she hopes to attend university in Japan and later become an English teacher or a study abroad advisor. Her current food obsessions include nikuman, Japanese eggplant and hojicha parfait.
Momo on FOOD: From the famous champon to chirin-chirin ice cream, Nagasaki’s food has made my study abroad journey much more exciting. Weekly visits to our local bakery are something I always look forward to. There’s something about Japanese bread that gives me an insatiable appetite. My roommate and I are well on our way to achieving our goal of trying every type of bread. So far, milk, cheese, and maron bread are my favorites. Eating out in Nagasaki is way more affordable compared to the US, and tastier in my opinion. Sushiro’s basil and cheese aburi salmon is simply mouth watering. I make my own bento for lunch, but school meals are to die for as well. They have katsu curry, udon, and even a buffet — all cheap and HEAVENLY.
Rebekah is a 19-year-old college student from America.
She loves to travel and broaden her knowledge of the world, which is one of the reasons Japan attracted her. She loves to play various sports and watch movies and dramas. She also does competitive show jumping in the United States.
Rebekah on LIFE: Living in Japan has helped me become independent and grow as an individual. Nagasaki has a relaxed environment and beautiful scenery. The people I’ve met are all very nice and welcoming too. Even though they may not speak English, they try their best to help you and talk with you. Nagasaki’s Mt. Inasayama has the third best night view in the world, so if you get the chance, you should go on a clear evening. You won’t regret it! Another of my favorite places to go in Nagasaki is Glover Garden. In the fall and winter they have beautiful illuminations and a great view of the city. There are also cute shops with delicious food, along with the historical Oura Church. Whether you are here for a short visit or the long-term, there are always activities and festivals to keep you entertained. Nagasaki is a cute city that I would love to return to in the future!
TEXT AND PHOTOS: Tamsin Cody, Momo Kitahara and Rebekah Mundell
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TEXT AND PHOTOS: Evan Hayden
Who do you talk to if you want a fresh haircut and killer jams in Nagasaki? None other than Genki Kuwano, AKA “Artical Sound”. Evan Hayden joined his friend for a conversation on the salon couch to find out what makes this musical aesthete tick.
Reggae and hip-hop DJ Genki Kuwano throws the biggest parties in Nagasaki and runs a successful beauty salon under the name Artical - Jamaican slang for genuine or real. His DJ career traces back to the late ‘90s, when he was listening to the popular hip hop at that time, like DMX and Jay-Z. Over time, his musical interests expanded to include reggae and dancehall artists such as Buju Banton, Peter Tosh, Sanchez, and Bob Marley. He began holding his own music events, and went on to host long-running DJ nights at Nagasaki’s legendary Ayers Rock (later known as Orb) and other venues. Currently, he holds regular Artical Sound events at Nagasaki’s Club BETA, as well as an annual beach party on Iojima. He has hosted over 300 parties and music events over 19 years, the longest of any promoter in Nagasaki. 8
Genki is a traveling man. He’s been to Jamaica three times, and has traveled around Europe and the USA. In Jamaica, Genki networks and collaborates with local musicians, even recording songs together. There’s a thriving underground music industry there, including many welcoming people who can help navigate the local music scene. Genki works with them and others, sources local MCs, and writes lyrics for them to lay over instrumental tracks. This gives Genki some extra special and original tracks to use for his DJ sets. He has learned a lot about production, vocal styles, and reggae from his journeys to Jamaica. The other thing that makes Genki special is his ability to make you look as fresh as his beats! For the past 13 years, he has run a beauty
Dubplates When in Jamaica, Genki records dubplates at local studios. Dubplates are acetate recording discs, similiar in appearance to vinyl records, used for demo recording due to their affordable and easy production. Despite many DJs these days playing digital files, some, like Genki, prefer the old school charm of records. Dubplates are one way for musicians to get their tracks on the dancefloor quickly, and gage partygoers' reception to new music. photo: Wikimedia Commons user Somethingelsedan
salon in Nagasaki. He cuts hair and has dedicated staff who additionally offer nail and facial treatments, eyelashes, and bridal beauty services. My wife and I are regular customers! His ever-growing salon is decorated by huge murals painted by friends, and there’s always reggae thumping in the background. Genki also hopes to travel more and improve his English and Jamaican patois. In his free time, he continues music recording in his studio in the back of his salon. I admire Genki, as he has refused to follow a more traditional lifestyle and instead forged ahead with his own vision to get the people of Nagasaki out on the dance floor and looking good. His advice to others who are following their dreams is to focus on what’s fun and make sure you’re always enjoying what you do. His personal motto: “A lot of work and a lot of fun!”
SALON INFO
@ artical.nagasaki
on Facebook
EYELASH MENU
HAIR MENU
Nagasaki Guesthouses Guesthouses offer a fun way to meet local people; experience the traditional culture and food of each area; and to make great connections with fellow travelers. If you're looking for a warm, friendly and exciting place to spend the night, look no further! TEXT: Yeti Mallavi, Will Tiley, Cassandra Fegert
PHOTOS: Cassandra Fegert, Go! Go! Tomocchi, Nagasaki Prefecture Tourism Association（一社）長崎県観光連盟
8 discover-nagasaki.com
(English 日本語 中國語言 한국어 FRA ESP NLD ITA)
Shimayado Island Inn Goen (OJIKA ISLAND)
Yukinoura Guesthouse Moritaya (SAIKAI CITY)
Ojika is a small island with gorgeous beaches and mesmerizing sunsets. Located about 10 minutes by foot from Ojika Harbor Ferry Terminal, Shimayado Goen has 9 private rooms and a dormitory-style room that can accommodate up to 10 people. Space is available to make your own food, but the owners also serve breakfast and dinner made from catch of the day. Alternatively, Bar & Karaoke Melody is conveniently located next door. Guests can also rent bicycles for free and use it to explore this nature abundant island. You can even take a day-trip to the neighboring Nozaki Island; a World Cultural Heritage Site
Just an hour north of Nagasaki City, or 50 minutes south of Sasebo by car, Yukinoura Guesthouse Moritaya offers two types of dormitory rooms (unisex and female-only) and a traditional Japanese-style private room for its guests. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen inside the guesthouse and a supermarket nearby. During the day, this guesthouse is also a cafĂŠ and a communal space for guests and the locals to hangout. While in the area, why not try surfing or stand-up paddle boarding (SUP); or take a trip to the nostalgic Onyoku Museum filled with high-fidelity audio-equipment and records galore.
Nagasaki Kagamiya (NAGASAKI CITY)
Minatoya Guesthouse (IKI ISLAND)
Located 20 minutes away from Nagasaki Station via tram, Kagamiya offers traditional Japanese-style private rooms, dormitory-style rooms (gender separated), and kimono rental services. The common space area has free Wi-Fi and sightseeing information on hand to help you explore the city. Let the experienced owner help you get dressed in an authentic kimono, and then spend the day strolling through the city.
Located close to the Ashibe Ferry Terminal on Iki Island, Minatoya Guesthouse is a great base for a weekend (or more!) of island exploration. This 100 year-old building has both dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, a communal area, and a kitchen. This is the perfect place to enjoy fantastic seafood, beef and fresh produce that Iki has to offer. With a mix of breathtaking beaches, hundreds of shrines, historical sites, onsen, and even a giant rock shaped like a monkey; Iki is a great place to visit all-year-around.
They say a picture is worth a 1000 words, and so we at the Nagazasshi have decided to embrace local artists from around the prefecture. We hope that you enjoy our first ever Nagazasshi Art Gallery! Stay tuned for more amazing art in the next issue!
" お好み村 "
Yulia Kerme, Nagasaki City (Watercolor, Ink)
Japanese architecture from the 70-80s is something that’s always caught my attention and inspired me creatively. It has a distinctive air about it that represents the way of thinking at that time - romantic faith in bright, futuristic perspectives and images of a "contemporary Western city” that creates a unique atmosphere you can only get in the quiet backstreets and hills of Nagasaki. Yulia Kerme has been interested in art since childhood, and Japan has helped reignite her creativity and desire to express beauty through her ideas. Instagram: yulia_kerme
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" Worth the Millions" Carolina Marini, Nagasaki City (Ink) I felt like I hit the jackpot. Not the kind you win through the lottery, or bingo, or raffle tickets. Nagasaki’s night view took my breath away. In the absence of light pollution, you can see the Milky Way without straining. Across the horizon, I can see lights touch from all ends. It’s endless and mesmerizing. Nagasaki is worth the million mistakes, successes, the ups and the downs in my life. Carolina Marini graduated from Northern Kentucky University, majoring in Animation and Programming. After coming to Japan, she is hoping to get out of her artistic slump and see where it takes her.
" Gardening" James Graham, Hirado (Experimental Photography) I took this photo as a part of a photography challenge. The challenge was to closely imitate another style or technique, so I chose Daisuke Takakura’s clone photography. James Graham has practiced photography since 2012. He enjoys the instantaneous nature of photography as a medium and the challenge of enabling the camera to capture and reproduce what the human eye sees. 13
TEXT: Will Morgan, Dan Cohen It’s the middle of winter and freezing cold. You’re not the only one wearing five layers, huddled under the kotatsu with the heat on full blast, but sometimes it takes more than warmth to beat the winter blues. A dinner with friends can warm the soul, and if you want to be the hero of the hour, making arrangements will propel you to glory. Here’s how to conquer that dreadful phone reservation.
1
How to Start the Call
2
The Deets
Press the numbers on your phone with your shaky fingers and proceed to dial. When the phone is answered, you will probably hear the restaurant name and a stream of other Japanese words (Hanbei’s is hilariously long). Pay no mind. With a clear, but slightly apologetic voice, hit ‘em with the ol’: 「もしもし、予約を したいんですが...」 (Moshi moshi, yoyaku wo shitai n desu ga… - Hello, I’d like to make a reservation.) Hint: adding the n sound after shitai serves to show you are seeking confirmation, and helps you sound like a natural!
There, hard part’s over. Now onto the details. They will most likely start by asking you when you wish to make this reservation for. A typical interaction looks like this, and note that one-word answers are completely acceptable: 15日の6時半です。
何日でしょうか
Nan nichi deshō ka?
→
Juu-go nichi no roku ji han desu. The 15th at 6:30.
What day?
Next may come questions of how many raucous foreigners you’re bringing into their establishment. 何名でしょうか Nanmei deshō ka? How many people?
3
６人です。
→
Rokunin desu. It’ll be 6.
Finishing Up To complete your reservation you will have to give your name and phone number. They will say something like お名前とお電話番号をお願いいたします (onamae to odenwabangō wo onegai itashimasu - May I have your name and phone number please?) Let ‘em have it, but maybe simplify your name if you happen to be Sir Edward Rockswallow the Third or similar. And that’s it! Now you can get your heart rate back under control. Do note, if you’re bringing a big group (more than six or seven), they may ask you if you’d like to order anything in advance. To save the trouble of figuring it out over the phone, you can say: 着いてから注文します (tsuite kara chūmon shimasu - We’ll order after we arrive). Happy resevations!
If there is any nihongo you’d like to know to help you on the go, please email nagazasshi@gmail.com