LIVINGJAPAN Vol. 8 by Robotag Media

Welcome to Japan Three ways of Living Eight lives in Tokyo

Come home to the ease of Oakwood living in Asia. Oakwood offers three brands of serviced apartment solutions in seven locations in Asia’s most cosmopolitan city, Tokyo – Aoyama, Akasaka, Ariake, Azabujyuban, Tokyo Midtown, two in Roppongi and Shirokane.

For details and reservations, please visit our website at oakwoodasia.com BANGALORE BANGKOK BEIJING CHENGDU GUANGZHOU HANGZHOU HONG KONG JAKARTA MANILA MUMBAI PUNE SEOUL SHANGHAI TOKYO

Discover Tokyo’s top properties and exceptional service

Property for Lease

Our goal is to provide exceptional service and help you find better housing and minimize the hassle of moving to Japan. We understand that finding the right house or apartment for you is the key to a successful stay in Japan.

TOTAL HOUSING SUPPORT

•House Hunting •Negotiation of Terms •Moving In •Assistance during your stay •Moving Out - Inspection and Negotiation

Leasing Division +81 3-3588-8862

CR Kamiyacho Bldg. 7F, 1-11-9 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo

www.housingjapan.com rent@housingjapan.com

THIS ISSUE LIVING JAPAN #8 6

WHAT’S NEW

45 SIGHTSEEING

A quick look at some of the city’s newest shopping, architecture and sightseeing venues

THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS OF TOKYO

56 WINING & DINING

A comprehensive guide to the city’s residential areas, now featuring the Tokyo Bay area for the first time

24 GAME CHANGER: INVESTING IN TOKYO REAL ESTATE BEFORE THE OLYMPICS

Dominic Carter gives us his take on the essence of Japanese cuisine and we introduce some of Tokyo’s best fine dining spots

60 SPECIAL: EXCLUSIVE FITNESS CLUBS & SPAS IN TOKYO

What you need to know now if you want to make a good investment

Some of the best membership clubs and spas in Tokyo and what they have to offer

31 GUIDE TO BUYING PROPERTY

64 SPECIAL: FINDING THE RIGHT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

All the details and procedures related to buying properties in Tokyo

34 GUIDE TO RENTING PROPERTY

Tokyo and Yokohama have an array of great schools to choose from. We try to make the choice a bit easier with this special feature

Everything you need to know about renting an apartment in Tokyo

39 ART & DESIGN

72 REFERENCE GUIDE & DIRECTORY

Paul McInnes strolls through Tokyo’s artsy quarter around Bakurocho and gives a detailed review of the planned Olympic venues

Publisher - Lloyd Cunningham Editor-in-Chief - Mareike Dornhege Designer - Aude Boyer Marketing Director - Mareike Dornhege Account Executive - Michael Mendez Media Coordinator - Kim MyoungHyang Contributors - Dominic Carter, Brian Christian, Elisabeth Lambert, Paul McInnes Photographers - Nathan Hosken, Kim MyoungHyang

A selection of both well-known and off-the-beaten-path places to explore Tokyo and Yokohama

Some useful information to help both newcomers and long-term residents get settled in Tokyo

Published by Robotag Media For advertising inquiries: Robotag Media / 03-4590-1545 / sales@robotagmedia.com © Copyright 2014 Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content within this publication, some information, such as contact numbers and addresses, may change without notice. Robotag Media accepts no responsibility in the event of such changes causing any misinformation within this publication. Cover photo by Nathan Hosken.

WHAT’S NEW

NEW TOKYO STATION Since its grand renewal opening in fall last year, more and more shops have opened their doors around Tokyo Station. The new Tokyo station is divided into more than 10 areas giving it the feel of a small town that has a lot more to offer than just being a transportation hub. Visitors can enjoy the different atmospheres offered by each of the areas. Most notably is GRANROOF, which was revealed on September 20 last year at the Yaesu exit and has drawn large crowds since its opening. Extending over five floors, the theme of the area is “Yaesu's Sensational Scene.” Looking up, you can see a large roof reflecting the image of a ship’s sail. Shops in the area range from restaurants to retail stores and beauty salons.

BOUL’ MICH

PROGRES

Lovers of sweet temptations have a new destination in Tokyo: Patisserie BOUL’ MICH recently opened a new store on JR Tokyo Central Street in Tokyo station. The owner Yoshida Kikujiro was trained in Paris and has won several international awards for his creations. He launched BOUL’ MICH in Shibuya in 1973 and now has stores all over Japan as well as in Paris. His iconic Chiboust tart is a must-try, which Yoshida based on a recipe which had been created by the French pastry chef Chiboust 150 years ago.

Progres is a dried fruits specialty store, which recently opened in the GranSta area of Tokyo station. It offers more than 30 kinds of dried fruits including some exotic flavors such as tomato, pineapple, fig, kiwi, blueberry and selected nuts and grains. A perfect companion with wine or as a healthy snack for busy people on the move, these treats make a great souvenir.

JR Tokyo Central Street Opening hours: Mon-Sun 07:00-21:00

Living Japan Vol. 8

B1F of GranSta area in Tokyo station Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8:00~22:00 Sundays and holidays: 8:00~21:00

ASAGAYA ANIME STREET Tokyo will soon have a brand new attraction in Suginamiku for anime fans, the “Asagaya Amine Street.” Japanese anime and manga have risen to popularity around the world and become synonymous with Japanese subculture. Suginami-ku is known as an anime haven because of the number of animation production companies in the area. According to the JR East Urban Development Corp., anime lovers will be able to walk under a 120m roofed street between Asagaya and Koenji stations, protecting them from downpours. The concept of the new development is “an anime city that offers a cultural exchange place for locals and visitors alike to increase the number of anime fans worldwide.” There will be goods shops, galleries, cosplay costume shops and cafes. At this time, 16 shops have already opened their doors on the street. The official opening is planned for March 2014.

TORANOMON HILLS This year Tokyo’s Toranomon area will be redefined by two new projects. Most notably, the construction of Toranomon Hills by Mori Building Co., Ltd., is now in its final stages. The tower will be 247 m tall, making it the second highest building in the capital. Offices, residences, conference venues, shops, cafes and a hotel are planned for the new development. Along with the construction of Toranomon Hills, the expressway from Toranomon to Shimbashi will be redeveloped. It will be moved underground to create an avenue wider than Omotesando. The work is now proceeding towards opening in spring this year.

The KitchHike Team is Bringing New Life to Tokyo’s Kitchens Japan’s unique food culture is expanding its creative realm once more: KitchHike.com is a newly founded web-service from Japan that connects cooks — people who are interested in using their cooking skills to meet and entertain new people, and hikers — travelers who want to eat local in real people’s homes, in kitchens all over the world. A great service that lets you meet local people and experience their real cuisine. Hikers can browse through the list of home-cooked menus on the site and arrange visits at local homes in Tokyo and more than 14 countries so far. Visit www.kitchhike.com for more information.

KACHIDOKI, HARUMI & TOYOSU AN UPCOMING AREA ON THE BAY

Close to the business districts of Tokyo and Shiodome and bustling upscale Ginza, the residential areas on the bay are an attractive place to live for families, young couples and singles alike. Several train lines connect the area, which is actually an island, well to the rest of the city. Many of the apartments boast great views of the Tokyo bay and Sumida river. Attractions like Odaiba and Disneyland are only a short train ride away. As the area was developed later than other parts of Tokyo, upscale apartments can be found here at lower monthly rents than in Minato ward or on the West side of Tokyo.

A BRIEF HISTORY Built on land reclaimed between the Meiji restoration and the start of World War II, the artificial island along Tokyo bay harbors the areas of Kachidoki, Harumi, Tsukishima and Toyosu. The whole area was comparatively less developed, until the Oedo and Yurakucho lines were built. In recent years, the island has become more popular as a residential area with a number of large scale apartment complexes. Its popularity is expected to increase with the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as a number of the venues are planned in the Tokyo bay area, including the Olympic Village.

RECREATION & SHOPPING Odaiba is another artificial island set right in front of the residential areas in the Tokyo bay area. There are a number of shopping malls and amusement spots as well as museums and the Oedo Monogatari onsen which is open all night. At night, one can enjoy the evening views of the illuminated Rainbow Bridge. Foodies will want to head to Tsukishima, which is

KACHIDOKI BRIDGE

Living Japan Vol. 8

synonymous with Monjayaki (an Edo dish that resembles a filled pancake). There is a whole street lined with nothing but Monjayaki eateries. Shoppers will appreciate the largest mall in the area, Urban Dock Lalaport Toyosu. Other highlights include near-by Tsukiji fish market and the neighboring serene Hamarikyu gardens.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOODS Kachidoki is known for a number of highrise residential towers close to the station. International supermarkets, a variety of restaurants and convenience stores are located in the vicinity, making it a convenient place to live. The Oedo line is at your doorstep, and the Yurikamome line will connect to Kachidoki by 2020. Further is a Kachidoki East District Development planned which will include three residential towers with over 3,000 apartments. Harumi is located between the Kachidoki and Tsukishima stations on Oedo line. It is best known for the Triton Square development which offers commercial, office and residential spaces. Toyosu is served by the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho and Yuri-

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

TSUKISHIMA

kamome lines and developed into a popular residential area with many modern apartment complexes, ranging from midrange to luxurious ones.

YOTSUYA, IIDABASHI & ICHIGAYA

A EUROPEAN COMMUNITY IN HISTORIC TOKYO

Yotsuya, Ichigaya, Bancho and Iidabashi are located between Shinjuku and Chiyoda wards, geographically in the center of Tokyo in what was the historical command post for the nation a few hundred years ago. Although the location is very central, there are distinctively charming neighborhoods, as well as surprisingly quiet residential areas. These areas have consistently been the favorites of European residents, particularly French expats, because of the nearby Lycee Franco-Japonais school (located between Iidabashi and Kudanshita). This is the ideal place for those looking for traditional Japan with a slice of European charm.

A BRIEF HISTORY

You won’t get much closer to historical Japan then the Imperial Palace. Around the turn of the 16th century, the district that is now the Imperial grounds became the center of national affairs. The city of Tokyo (called Edo at the time) soon grew at breakneck speed. Even today, at the center of the capital of modern Japan, the Imperial palace and its expansive grounds visually dominate Chiyoda ward. For residents and newcomers alike, the grand gates, the moat of the palace, and the Marunouchi office quarters to the east of Tokyo station offer a glimpse of the past and can be quite fascinating.

RECREATION & SHOPPING

The area, with its mix of old and new urban styles, has a wide selection of parks, attractions and historical landmarks for both residents and visitors. The grounds of the Imperial Palace attract joggers year round, as well as large groups of people who come in the springtime to enjoy cherry blossom season. Shinjuku Gyoen, which is home to both Japanese and

European gardens, is located on the west side of this area close to Shinjuku. One of the city’s most famous shrines, Yasukuni Jinja, is on the east side. For sports and recreation, Tokyo Dome and its nearby shopping center and amusement park are located in the northern part of this area.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS

Within minutes of Tokyo and Shinjuku stations, these areas offer convenient access to all districts of Tokyo and beyond. Four train and subway lines (Yurakucho, Marunouchi, Namboku and the JR Sobu line) serve the area, with 12 stations nearby. Ichigaya and Bancho are the most popular residential neighborhoods for expats and are also home to many of Tokyo’s prominent politicians. You will find pricey upscale apartments and homes in this area, despite the lack of greenery and mix of commercial buildings. Yotsuya offers mostly apartments in quiet communities with narrow streets and is perhaps the most well known of these areas for fine dining and having one of the best-connected train stations in the city.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

NATIONAL DIET

IMPERIAL PALACE

SADOHARACHO

HARAJUKU, OMOTESANDO & AOYAMA COSMOPOLITAN AND ALTERNATIVE CULTURE

In an area roughly forming a triangle, Harajuku, Omotesando, and Aoyama are associated by name and adjacency, yet each has unique characteristics. The areas of Aoyama and Omotesando are synonymous with world-class design, high-end fashion, elegant cuisine, and cosmopolitan café culture. The area around Omotesando-dori is a shopping and fashion lover’s paradise, with nearly every major fashion brand in the world represented. The intersection with Meiji-dori marks the beginning of Harajuku, famous for its weaving backstreets and Takeshita-dori, where avant-garde fashions meet Tokyo’s alternative street style. Contrasting with Omotesando and Aoyama, Harajuku both accentuates and balances the area. Behind Harajuku station, Yoyogi Park and the densely wooded grounds of Meiji Jingu shrine add some welcome serenity to the area.

A BRIEF HISTORY The area now known as Aoyama owes its beginnings to Tadanori Aoyama, who planned and built aristocratic residences there during the Edo period. After the Meiji era, however, most of these stately mansions were converted into normal residences and the remaining areas previously owned by the Aoyama family were transformed into Aoyama cemetery. Omotesando-dori was first built in 1920 and served as the main access to Meiji Jingu. You can still find the stone lanterns on each side of the street marking the entrance. Two years after the Tokyo earthquake of 1923, the famous Dojunkai Aoyama Apartments were built in the spot that is now Omotesando Hills. The Harajuku area first became fashionable during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics due to its proximity to the Olympic gymnasium.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS These neighborhoods are conveniently located on five major subway lines (Ginza,

HARAJUKU STATION

Living Japan Vol. 8

Hanzomon, Chiyoda, Fukutoshin and Oedo), as well as the JR Yamanote line. The four area stations are just a short commute to Shibuya, Shinjuku, Akasaka, Otemachi and many other major business districts, making this a prime location with easy access to just about anywhere in central Tokyo. Although these areas are predominantly commercial, there are many residential pockets as well. The perfect apartment or home may be difficult to find, as many units are older, more compact, or pricey. Families may have difficulty moving through the weekend congestion of shoppers, but it is very convenient for those with children who attend the nearby British School. Typically, the residential areas here offer one- to three-bedroom apartments and fewer spacious family units or singlefamily homes. This area has one of the highest concentrations of parks and public outdoor spaces, including Yoyogi park, Meiji Jingu Gaien park and Aoyama cemetery. This makes it easy to get out and enjoy weekend activities, sports, and jogging. Kinokuniya and Peacock supermarkets, which stock a

good selection of international foods, are conveniently located on Aoyama-dori close to Omotesando station.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Omotesando: Minami-Aoyama, Shibuya 4-Chome, Jingumae Aoyama: Minami-Aoyama, Kita-Aoyama Harajuku: Sendagaya 3-Chome, Jingumae

YOYOGI PARK

OMOTESANDO HILLS

TODS

MEIJI BLVD CROSSING

YOYOGI MEIJI JINGU PARK PARK

PRADA

OMOTESANDO

AZABU, HIROO & SHIROKANE

PRIME EXPAT PROPERTIES

Azabu, Hiroo and Shirokane are prominent cosmopolitan areas right in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato ward. The pedestrian-friendly small streets are lined with boutiques, restaurants and upscale apartments, which are some of Tokyo’s prime expat properties. The Hiroo and Azabu areas have historically been home to many diplomats, senior executives and expats who want a convenient, Western lifestyle in the center of Tokyo’s foreign community. Also, in this area are some of Tokyo’s most popular international schools, preschools, parks and recreational facilities, and international supermarkets.

A BRIEF HISTORY Between the 17th and19th centuries, feudal nobles built huge estates in this area, and many of these remain today as the premises of some of the many embassies here. Naturally, diplomats and foreigners associated with these embassies made their homes in the Azabu and Shirokane areas, establishing some of Tokyo’s first upscale suburbs.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS The village-like feel of these tightknit communities coupled with the close proximity to Shibuya, Roppongi and Akasaka have made these neighborhoods popular with expats for decades. Access to just about anywhere in central Tokyo could not be better via the Hibiya, Namboku, Mita and Oedo Subway lines. Azabu-Juban has been a desirable residential address for nearly three hundred years, and to this day many of the establishments on its narrow

shopping streets are local, family-run businesses, rather than chain stores and restaurants. These historic Japanese shops, combined with the international c o m m u n i t y, p r o v i d e a u n i q u e l y cosmopolitan feel. The Moto-Azabu area, home to the tree-shaped Motoazabu Hills residential high-rise building and the Nishimachi International School, has become one of the most desired residential neighborhoods in Tokyo. Just across the border of Shibuya ward, Hiroo is popular because of its charming neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and many Western-style apartments. The area directly around Hiroo station has a nice selection of boutiques, cafés, restaurants and bars, yet it is very quiet after the last train around midnight. Arisugawa Park provides a great spot to enjoy a little nature on weekends. The Hiroo and Red Cross Hospitals are both well equipped to treat foreign residents, and the International School of the Sacred Heart is within a few minutes’ walk of Hiroo station. Shirokane is an “old money” neighborhood just one block

south of Minami-Azabu, offering a quieter residential experience with smaller neighborhoods and plenty of greenery. There are several shopping streets and supermarkets, and the Institute for Nature Study is one of the city’s most tranquil getaways. The Shirokane area is a popular alternative to Azabu and Hiroo because it is still very central and convenient, but also a place where you can sometimes find houses with gardens.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Azabu: Minami-Azabu, Motoazabu, Azabu Juban, Nishi Azabu 3-Chome Hiroo: Hiroo, Nishi Azabu 4-Chome, Minami-Aoyama 7-Chome Shirokane: Shirokane 2-Chome, Shirokane 4-Chome, Shirokane 5-Chome, Shirokanedai 2 & 3-Chome

TSUTAYA

Living Japan Vol. 8

ARISUGAWA PARK

HIROO

ARISUGAWA PARK

MOTO AZABU

AZABUJUBAN STATION

HIROO

EBISU, MEGURO & GOTANDA

AFFORDABLE LIVING IN CENTRAL TOKYO

EBISU GARDEN PLACE

Along the Yamanote line, which defines the inner circle of central Tokyo, are the areas of Ebisu, Meguro and Gotanda, which are just far enough away from the busier areas yet still a very short commute to all business districts (and within minutes of Hiroo, Roppongi and Kamiyacho). They are also places where it is possible to find more spacious homes for lower rent. It used to be that the areas of Meguro and Gotanda were favored only by more established foreign residents of Tokyo, but recently even newcomers are attracted to some of the charming residential neighborhoods that have plenty of parks, recreational centers, and a slightly more suburban feel.

A BRIEF HISTORY Once a quiet town called Mitamura, Ebisu originated from the popular beer brand Yebisu, which established its brewery there in 1889. Soon after, the company built Ebisu Station to facilitate distribution of its product. The brewery was moved to Chiba in 1988, and the original site and surrounding area were transformed into Yebisu Garden Place, which opened as a shopping, dining and entertainment complex in 1994 and is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with a number of events. The development and popularity of Meguro was due in part to a horse racetrack that existed there from 1907 to 1933. The racetrack was moved further west to Fuchu as Tokyo expanded, and today only the Moto-Keba (former racetrack) bus stop remains. In the 17th century, feudal lords were required to spend half of each year in Edo, under the supervision of the Shogun. These lords built stately mansions and estates in the area that is now Shirokane and Kami-Osaki, making this one of Japan’s first upscale suburbs.

the Nature Study Park, a nature preserve with lots of plants and greenery to enjoy. To the northeast of Gotanda station is Ikedayama Higashi Gotanda 5-chome, which boasts larger homes for those with bigger budgets and is also home to the Prime Minister’s estate. In a city with streets going in all directions, this neighborhood was laid out on a grid with a slightly suburban feel. Another notable residential area is Higashi Gotanda 3-chome, were the Seisen University is located. These areas are very convenient locations for commutes by car or train. Daikanyama is one of Tokyo’s hippest neighborhoods—a trendy place for young couples and families to shop and dine. Housing in this area tends to be newer low-rise buildings with apartments best suited for singles and couples, but some affordable larger units can also be found. The commute by train from Daikanyama or Nakameguro stations can be problematic at times due to the crowded trains of the Toyoko Line going to Shibuya. Nearby Ebisu is better, offer-

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS

Ebisu and Meguro are well-located just minutes from many business districts, the many trendy boutiques of Daikanyama, and dining or clubbing in Roppongi. The lively, stylish area surrounding Ebisu Station is more suitable for singles or couples looking for one- to two-bedroom apartments. To the south of Ebisu station are some prime residential neighborhoods, including Chojamaru and Hanabusayama Kami-Osaki 3-chome, with upscale three- to four-bedroom apartments and homes best suited for families. Between Ebisu and Meguro is

Living Japan Vol. 8

MEGURO RIVER

ing both the JR Yamanote line and Hibiya subway line, which connect easily to central locations and Yokohama.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Ebisu: Higashi-Ebisu, Kami-Osaki, Chojamaru Meguro: Aobadai, Meguro, KamiOsaki 2-Chome, Kami-Osaki 3-Chome, Mita Gotanda: Higashi-Gotanda 5-Chome, Higashi-Gotanda 3-Chome Nakameguro & Daikayanama: Aobadai, Sarugakucho, Daikanyamacho, Nishi-Ebisu

RECOMMENDED SPOTS

EBISU By Mareike Dornhege

20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE: THE WESTIN TOKYO The Westin Tokyo opened as one of the first international luxury hotels in the capital 20 years ago. It has made itself a name for its opulent, European style and achieved a reputation of delivering a personalized experience tailored to every single guest. Colorful flowers appear like precious jewels that are strewn along a winding stream filled with small, bright orange goldfishes. It is hard to take your eyes off them as they are such a cheerful sight in the height of winter in Tokyo. We are nestled in a quiet corner of The Westin Tokyo’s “The Bar“ as the general manager, Dietmar Kielnhofer, tells us “The Westin Tokyo opened its new garden last April. It was designed with European influences and is adorned with blooming flowers in every season. Every month of the year, you will see different color hues dominating the scene.“ The plum tree outside the window is already showing its first blossoms and will be in full purple bloom soon as Kielnhofer assures us. “Upon arrival at The Westin Tokyo, I noticed a large, unused area at the back of the hotel. Space comes at a premium here, so I planted the seed in the board members’ minds to recreate it into a green oasis in the heart of Tokyo,“ remembers Kielnhofer. The Westin Tokyo is famous for its distinctive European style. This is expressed through its classic design as well as cuisine and European art and culture, which make The Westin Tokyo an exciting destination for travelers and locals alike. “The Westin Tokyo is a one-of-its-kind hotel in Tokyo. We pride ourselves to consistently deliver the highest level of hospitality in a setting that reflects our European heritage. The hotel’s design is very unique and the unison feedback from our guests is: “Don’t change a thing!“ “The Westin Tokyo has been an integral part of Yebisu Garden Place since its inception. We keep close relations with the surrounding businesses. A park-like garden that is open to the public is a wonderful way for us to contribute to the local community,“ says Kielnhofer. Moreover, the scenery has become popular for wedding photo shoots and anyone looking for a special venue can rent out the event space in the garden for a party. “We had a private dinner here last summer. The paths were lit up with candles and fireflies were glowing in the small stream. With the stars above it could not have been more romantic,“ reminisces Kielnhofer. As The Westin Tokyo is also celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the timing could not have been more perfect. “We are planning a number of events throughout the year to lead up to the big anniversary celebration in October. We have a couple of surprises planned that range from the culinary to art and culture.“ Everyone is welcome to enjoy The Westin Garden every day between 9am and sunset. It is open to the public and accessible through a small gate at the left side of the front entrance.

THE WESTIN TOKYO 1-4-1 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 03-5423-7000 www.westin-tokyo.co.jp/english To enjoy one of The Westin’s popular champagne dinners or the cultural highlights to commemorate their 20th anniversary in October this year, please check their website: http://www.westin-tokyo.co.jp/english/ under “Offers“.

Austrian-born Dietmar Kielnhofer is the general manager of The Westin Tokyo.

ROPPONGI & AKASAKA TOKYO’S HOT SPOT The areas of Roppongi and Akasaka form a central hub for international business, residential urban development, restaurants and nightlife. Housing in this area is typically newer, high-rise apartments with fewer private homes. It is certainly a convenient and exciting location for foreign residents, especially for younger singles and couples.

A BRIEF HISTORY Founded by Buddhist monks in the Edo period (1603-1868), Roppongi remained a quiet temple town until after World War II, when the Akasaka and Azabu areas became home to U.S. troops and personnel. Coffee shops, nightclubs, hotels and restaurants soon emerged to meet the needs of residents and the Roppongi of today began to take shape. Japanese politicians and bureaucrats have traditionally patronized the black tile-roofed restaurants in Akasaka’s geisha quarter. As with many areas of Tokyo, Roppongi and Akasaka offer a unique marriage of traditional Japan with modern, international living.

RECREATION & SHOPPING The Roppongi and Akasaka areas are home to an abundance of international supermarkets, restaurants, bars, clubs and shops. The past decade has seen massive urban redevelopment, with complexes like Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown offering a wide array of modern office, residential, retail and green space.

TOKYO MIDTOWN

Living Japan Vol. 8

RESTAURANTS & NIGHTLIFE Roppongi, often called “the city that doesn’t sleep” for it’s all-night culture of trendy bars and clubs, has a myriad of options for international entertainment. The Roppongi and Akasaka areas have also become the gourmet center of Tokyo, where diners can choose from world-class restaurants specializing in cuisines such as Japanese, Thai, Indian, Italian, fusion and much more. It is not surprising that it has emerged as the place to catch glimpses of Japanese celebrities and Hollywood stars when they are in town.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS In addition to being prominent centers for business and entertainment, Roppongi and Akasaka offer some of the city’s most prestigious residential neighborhoods. The area is popular with expats for its central location, international atmosphere and convenient surroundings. It is easily accessible from just about anywhere in Tokyo via five subway lines (Oedo, Ginza, Hibiya, Namboku and Chiyoda)

and it offers a truly urban lifestyle, most popular with singles and couples. Typical residences tend to be modern highrise and apartment complexes, with few detached homes. Some of the popular areas include Roppongi 1-Chome, Toriizaka, Izumi Gardens, Roppongi Hills and the area around Hikawa Shrine.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Azabu-Nagasakacho, Azabudai, Akasaka, Roppongi, Roppongi 1-Chome, Nogizaka, Toranomon, Atago, Kamiyacho, Hikawa Shrine Area.

NATIONAL ART CENTER

AKASAKA BIZ TOWER

TOKYO MIDTOWN

ROPPONGI HILLS MORI GARDEN

ROPPONGI HILLS

MORI TOWER

RECOMMENDED SPOTS

ROPPONGI & AKASAKA

RUBY JACK’S STEAKHOUSE & BAR Mori Arc Hills South Tower 1-4-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku 03-3498-0002

Focusing on benchmark standards, the creators and producers of the ever popular Two Rooms Grill|Bar and R2 SupperClub promise a vibrant space with a food and beverage product yet to be seen on the Tokyo scene. Situated on the forest side of the newly constructed Mori Arc Hills South Tower in Akasaka, it is a classic Steakhouse & Bar with a twist. Ruby Jack’s Steakhouse & Bar will open its doors in March 2014. Call 03-3498-0002 for reservations.

20% off your first visit RD Nishi-Azabu 2F 3-1-18 Nishi-Azabu,Minato-ku,Tokyo 106-0031 OPENING HOURS : 11:00-20:00 (Every day except Tuesday) TEL: 03-5785-2238 http;//www.urban-suite.com/ (6min from hibiya-line exit 1a ropponngi stn)

SHIBUYA, SHOTO & YOYOGI

YOYOGI STADIUM

A VIBRANT CITY

Largely a commercial and entertainment district, Shibuya is a vibrant, trendsetting place that is constantly in motion. Over the last 30 years, it has grown to become the center of Japan’s popular youth culture and it has no shortage of department stores, record shops, discount stores, restaurants and bars. Shibuya is also famous for one the of the world’s busiest intersections — Hachiko crossing, directly in front of Shibuya Station. But not far from the hustle and bustle are some quiet, up market neighborhoods such as Shoto and Yoyogi.

A BRIEF HISTORY The areas of Yoyogi and Shoto grew prosperous in the 1920s and 30s after new rail lines were built out from central Tokyo. It was the Japanese families of Uehara who kept and preserved it as an area of residential greenery. The area became popular among foreign residents in 1978 after the Chiyoda subway line was completed that connects Yoyogi Uehara to Otemachi, one of Tokyo’s major financial centers. In the 1960s a fierce department store war broke out in Shibuya, beginning the development of one of Tokyo’s most famous and active shopping districts. Previously monopolized by the Tokyu Railway Company, the area saw new competitors move in, to which Tokyu responded by building even more department stores such as the legendary Shibuya 109.

RECREATION & SHOPPING Yoyogi Park, the largest park and green space in Tokyo, defines this area with its paths and lawns that are packed with tourists and residents on weekends. It is a place to enjoy jogging, sunbathing, picnics and cherry blossom viewing. Residents is the area can easily enjoy some

SHIBUYA CROSSING

of the city’s best shopping and dining in Shibuya or Shinjuku, and Daikanyama, Omotesando and Harajuku are only a short taxi ride, walk or train ride away.

THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS Yoyogi Uehara, Tomigaya, Oyamacho and Nishihara offer apartments and spacious single-family homes with gardens along wide tree-lined streets. Commuting to the business district of Otemachi and other parts of Tokyo is ideal via the Chiyoda and Odakyu Lines. Yoyogi Uehara is popular with families who have children attending the American School in Japan (ASIJ), as it offers the shortest bus ride on the ASIJ bus route. Shoto is a small, exclusive neighborhood very close to Shibuya Station and Yoyogi Park. Expect very high rents in this area, for Shoto has historically been a prestigious address with many exceptional Japanese and western style residences. The area is great for shopping and dining, as it is just minutes from Shibuya or a short taxi ride from neighboring Daikanyama. Shoto offers easy access to the rest of the city through the major hub of Shibuya station, and it is also on the bus route for ASIJ and very close to the British School.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

Shibuya/Shoto ¥¥¥¥¥ Yoyogi ¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Shoto, Shibuya, Yoyogi-Koen, Uehara, Yoyogi5-Chome, Nishihara, Oyamacho, Tomiyaga, Jinnan, Hachiyamacho, Nanpeidaicho, Sakuragaokacho.

YOYOGI PARK

SUBURBAN SOUTHWEST TOKYO COMFORTABLE FAMILY LIVING

A BRIEF HISTORY Southwest Tokyo began to develop in the early 1900s as the vision of developer Eichi Shibusawa, who planned to create a “garden suburb” designed after some of the suburban developments in other major cities at the time. His idea was well received, but the garden suburb truly began to boom after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. Central Tokyo was leveled, but Denenchofu remained virtually undamaged. Today Shibusawa’s ideas can still be seen in the area’s multitude of parks, greenery, and leisure facilities.

RECREATION & SHOPPING Throughout suburban southwest Tokyo places to shop, eat, play or simply go for a stroll are never far away. Residents and their families can easily enjoy the green open spaces of Komazawa Olympic Park or the Tama River for barbecues, picnics, dog walking and weekend sports. Boutiques and gourmet eateries can be found on many side streets and there are several Japanese and international supermarkets in the area. Jiyugaoka is notable for its many trendy shops and

FUKUZAWA

Living Japan Vol. 8

Just a short commute southwest of Shibuya and Meguro are some of Tokyo’s premier suburban neighborhoods. The area is full of quiet residential blocks with spacious homes in an array of tasteful styles as well as gardens, parks, upscale shopping and some of Tokyo’s best international schools. It’s the ideal place for those who value a home-centered, family-oriented life in an international atmosphere. Residents will also be able to get more space and possibly a garden or yard for the same rent as a smaller apartment in central Tokyo.

boutiques and Futago Tamagawa offers great shopping around the station and at the Takashimaya shopping mall.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS These areas collectively span from western Meguro to Setagaya and Ota wards and are nestled around stations on the Oimachi, Denentoshi, Meguro and Toyoko train lines. Two popular areas are Denenchofu and Jiyugaoka, which are located along the Toyoko line just 12 to 15 minutes from Shibuya. Denenchofu is the original and perhaps most prestigious garden suburb, with tree-lined avenues of elegant homes surrounded by manicured gardens. Just to the southeast of Jiyugaoka is Senzokuike, near Senzoku Park and well situated on the bus route for the Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama. It offers very easy access to central Tokyo via the Tokyu Ikegami line to Gotanda. Along the Oimachi train line are the popular family areas of Oyamadai, Todoroki, Kaminoge and FutagoTamagawa, which are between four and ten minutes from Jiyugaoka, close to international schools, and situated along the bank of the Tama river. The Seta residential area, close to Kaminoge

station, is popular for families because it’s just a short walk to St. Mary’s International School. Just to the northeast of these areas are Fukasawa and Sakurashinmachi, which are popular for their many parks, lower population density and excellent schools (including Seisen International School). With tree-lined streets, quiet neighborhoods and a mix of impressive Western and Japanese style homes, these areas are favored by both Japanese and foreign residents alike.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

Residential Neighborhoods Denenchofu, Jiyugaoka, Senzokuike, Oyamadai, Todoroki, Kaminoge, Futako Tamagawa, Seta, Fukazawa, Sakurashinmachi, Nakamachi, Okusawa, ooyama, Yoga, Seta, Komazawa

DENENCHOFU STATION

YOKOHAMA

TOKYO’S NEIGHBOR ON THE BAY

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan with a population of over three million, and a major tourist destination in its own right. Located just across the Tama River from Tokyo, Yokohama is fast becoming a popular area for foreign companies and residents. It is less than half an hour south of Tokyo by train, making it an ideal location for anyone wanting to live outside central Tokyo and enjoy a more reasonable cost of living. Yokohama also offers all the amenities of an international city with very convenient access to all the major business districts in central Tokyo, including Marunouchi, Shinagawa, Roppongi and Shinjuku.

A BRIEF HISTORY Yokohama is of particular historical significance as it was Japan’s first major port to open to international trade at the end of the Edo period. It was just a small fishing village at the time, but soon found itself playing a major role in one of the biggest shifts in Japan’s modern history. After many years of isolation, Japan opened up to the world and the importation of Western goods grew rapidly. Today, Yokohama remains a strategic city for import and export of a vast array of products.

RECREATION & SHOPPING Yokohama is well known among expats and tourists alike for its sprawling Chinatown district, which is home to a number of unique shops and delicious restaurants, drawing large crowds throughout the year. The Minato Mirai 21 complex is another popular destination on Yokohama’s waterfront. Originally a large shipping yard with brick warehouses, it has been developed into a

LANDMARK TOWER

city center with a long stretch of shopping centers, hotels, amusement parks and even relaxation spas with hot springs. Sky Garden, at the top of Landmark Tower, is the second highest observatory in the country and the best place to enjoy a view of the Yokohama skyline. The city also has some beautiful natural scenery. Sankeien is the most historic and famous of all Zen gardens in Yokohama. This spacious garden is surrounded by some elegant and historically significant buildings, including a feudal lord’s residence, an old-fashioned teahouse and a majestic pagoda belonging to Tomyoji Temple. Yamashita Park is Yokohama’s promenade, stretching 750 meters along the waterfront, with wide green spaces and a path that runs right along the water.

THE RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS As Yokohama quickly became a center of international trade at the end of the Edo period, the foreign population grew quite rapidly. Chinese residents gathered

around what is now Chinatown, and Western traders took up residence in the nearby Yamate area, which was also called “The Bluff” due to its position in the hills above the harbor. The hilly residential areas of Yamate still feature parks and other places of interest today. Running parallel to the Nakamura River, the Motomachi shopping street is famous as it was the first shopping street in Japan for foreign goods. It still maintains some of its history today, with high-end fashion boutiques, cafes and restaurants that cater to both residents and visitors.

QUICK AREA GUIDE Type of housing

Rent Rating

1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom

¥¥¥¥¥

YOKOHAMA BAY

CHINA TOWN

MINATO MIRAI STATION

Central Whole Sale Market

Yokohama Bay Brige Water -Bus

Yokohama Sta.

Rinko Park Nissan Head Office Minato Mirai 21 Central District Pacifico Yokohama

Keihin kyuko Line.

So Ro JR To utet ute ka s ido u Lin 1 e. Lin e

Minatomirai

(National Convention Hall ofYokohama)

Osanbashi Pan Pacific Hotel Aka-Renga Yokohama Yokohama Yokohama Queen’s Square Park Shin International World Porters NYK Hikawamaru Yokohama yam Museum of Art Passenger ashit Mi Minatomirai Sta. Shinko-cho a Ram na Terminal Yokohama p to The Landmark Mi Cosmoworld Tower rai Yokohama Yamashita cho Ramp Ra Yamashita Park NYK Maritime Customs mp Sail Training Ship Museum Yokohama Yokohama Kenmin Hall Mu Nippon Maru Ro nic Silk Museum Marine Doll Osaragi Jiro u ipa Kanagawa Tower Museum KishaMichi Yokohama Archives l Su te 16 Harbor View Park Memorial Prefectural bw of History Museum ay JR Government Motomachi-Cyukagai Sta. Bashamichi Sta. Nihon-odori Sta. Blu Kanagawa Sa Yokohama ku eL Yokohama Int’l Museum of Minatomirai Line rag ine Japan Foreign General School ich Modern Port Opening Newspaper Cemetery Iwasaki Museum Literature oS Sa Memorial Hall ta. Museum ku Yamate Museum Kanagawa China town rag Kamonyama Park Motomachi Prefectural Museum ich Ehrismann Residence oS Park of Cultural History Yokohama Yokohama Park ta. Kanagawa City Hall Prefectural Music Hall Motomachi St. Maur Int’l School Yokohama Stadium Yokohama Kannai Sta. Noge-cho Yamate Catholic Noh Theater To Honmoku Church JR Kannai Sta. Yamate Park Basha-michi

Tobe-cho

Yokohama Park Ramp Yokohama City Central Library Nogeyama Park

Metropolitan Expressway

To Shinagawa / Shibuya

To ShinYokohama

To Haneda

Living Japan Vol. 8

Hinodecho Sta.

JR Ishikawa Cho Sta.

Diplomat’s House

Yamate Italian garden Isezaki-cho Isezaki-chojamachi Sta.

To JR Yamate Sta.

GAME CHANGER What You Need to Know to Invest in Tokyo Real Estate Before the Olympics

By Mareike Dornhege

Living Japan Vol. 8

Narita International Airport

Tokyo Sky Tree

olita Government Tokyo Metropolitan

Imperial Palace

Yoyogi Park

Olympic Stadium

Tokyo Tower

Things in Japan are on the rise: Literally if we take a look at the number of high profile real estate developments planned across the city of Tokyo — as well as figuratively given that Abenomics has the potential to push Japan`s economy finally over the deflation threshold to an inflation economy with the Tokyo 2020 Olympics adding an extra stimulus. What does this mean for anyone interested in investing in real estate in Japan? According to Bloomberg, the consumer product index (CPI), which measures inflation on consumer goods, climbed over 1% at the end of 2013 which is the first annual gain since 1997. For the first time since 1989, the stock market grew by more than 50 percent in 2013, as the era of deflation appears to be finally ending. Tokyo has seen noticeable changes to its cityscape in the past two years — including the recent large scale urban redevelopments of a formerly neglected side of Shibuya station with the Hikarie building and the placement of a new monument — Tokyo Skytree — in Sumida ward. Further large scale projects we can expect to be completed by 2020 are the redevelopment of South Shinjuku station by JR (Japan Railway) East and the Shibuya redevelopment. The latter being a joint project by the JR and Tokyu and Metro railways, which will include three new high-rise towers and restoration of the Shibuya River. Real estate developers are also planning major projects, like Mori’s Toranomon Hills that will completely reshape the area and infrastructure around Toranomon station in a joint effort with Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The opening is planned for later this year. “Real estate markets are cyclical. After the severe devaluation following the 2008 global financial crisis, the market began to pick up form mid-2012 even before Abe was elected prime minister. Abenomics have accelerated the trend,“ explains James Fink, senior managing director of Colliers International Japan. While the economy is showing first

Harumi

Kachidoki

Olympic Village Toyosu

Rainbow Bridge

Tokyo Gate Bridge

8KM KM

from the he Olympic Villag Village ag

Tokyo International Airport (Haneda)

signs that Abenomics is taking effect, Tokyo 2020 is reinforcing this. “The most important thing about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is that it has reduced risks of Abenomics failing in the middle,” said Hideyuki Ishiguro, senior strategist at Okasan Securities in an interview with Agence France-Presse. The Tokyo Metropolitan government estimates hosting the Olympics will see about three trillion yen being spent. However, economists say the real impact will be much bigger. “The Tokyo government’s estimate doesn’t include redevelopment of roads and other social infrastructure in the greater Tokyo area, nor the government’s plan of repairing and rebuilding infrastructure nationwide,“ said Ishiguro. Daiwa Securities strategist Eiji Kinouchi forecasted in the same interview

“Odaiba and Kachidoki are attractive areas that are close to the center of Tokyo. We can expect these areas to gain popularity with the Tokyo 2020 developments.“ Joseph Rigby, director of Housing Japan

that the knock-on effect of the Olympics will be 150 trillion yen, comprising some 55 trillion yen in investment and a bump in tourism worth a whopping 95 trillion yen between now and then. Big numbers, that are, however, not surprising as of the 37 proposed competition venues only 15 already exist, while the others still need to be built and major infrastructure developments are planned. Many of the venues will be permanent to fill gaps in the provision of sport and cultural centers for the capital. The Olympic/Paralympic village complex alone will cost 95.4 billion yen and occupy a 44-hectare parcel of land around Harumi pier. The village will be located near Ginza, a bustling historic and shopping area and will also be close to the Odaiba waterfront. Most of the other new and existing venues are situated around the Tokyo Bay area as well, including the Odaiba Marine Park and the Ariake Arena. There are also plans to extend the Yurikamome line from its existing terminal at Toyosu station to a new terminal at Kachidoki station, which would provide the added benefit of improved public transportation in the area — amongst other renewal and renovation plans including a new terminal for large cruise ships and potentially a casino in the Tokyo bay area.

Average Price of Existing Condominium Sales

30 05

Both condominium and house prices in Tokyo are on the rise. The graph shows the average price for existing condos in the Tokyo metropolitan area in 10,000yen/sqm.

“Both Odaiba and Kachidoki are attractive areas that are close to the center of Tokyo,“ tells us Joseph Rigby, director at Housing Japan Real Estate. “There will be an increased focus on the area thanks to the Toyko 2020 developments. Combined with improved infrastructure we can expect this area to gain popularity.“ Another development might also transform the side of Tokyo close to the bay in the near future: The relocation of Tokyo’s iconic Tsukiji fish market is scheduled for 2015 as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced. The new location for the market is in Toyosu, which will draw interest to the area while freeing up about 20 hectares in the market’s old location. The area will be redeveloped as Higashi-Ginza and is expected to receive considerable interest due to its central location.

“With more firms coming to Japan to take advantage of Tokyo’s Special Zone for Asian Headquarters, the demand for luxury expat apartments will rise again.“ Mitsuo Hashimoto, president of Housing Japan

Living Japan Vol. 8

Another factor has been often overlooked in the celebrations of Tokyo 2020 and Abenomics taking root: Tokyo’s Special Zone for Asian Headquarters. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government launched the Special Zone for Asian Headquarters project as a new plan to attract foreign companies to Tokyo, aiming to make Tokyo the preferred site in Asia for regional headquarters. Foreign companies will benefit from preferential tax treatment, as well as deregulation and fiscal and financial assistance. To qualify for these benefits, the headquarters must be located within the special zone — which includes e.g. Toyosu and Odaiba among other locations in the

Tokyo bay area. “Location is one of the most important factors when choosing real estate. Looking for key points of interest like train stations, universities or headquarters of multinational companies near-by can be an indicator that the property will be popular“ mentions Rigby. “With more firms coming to Japan, demand for luxury expat apartments will rise again,“ adds Mitsuo Hashimoto, president of Housing Japan. So is the arena open for wild real estate speculating again? “We follow a strategy of careful investment. We advise clients against high-risk investments in favor for more stable and secure properties

Source: The Land Institute of Japan

House Price Change, Annual (%)

20 15 10

0 -5 -10 05

Source: The Land Institute of Japan

The graph indicates the percent change of Tokyo house prices compared to the previous year.

in central Tokyo that are aimed at broad demographics,“ states Hashimoto. “These investments might produce slightly lower yields, but are better suited to protect your assets in the long term,“ advises Rigby. Besides the 2020 Olympic developments that have potential to transform areas on the bay side of Tokyo and bring accelerated economic development for Tokyo, there are a number of factors buyers should consider before investing in real estate. These include the legal system and demographic trends as well as the quality of the property. Japan offers an interesting perk for foreign investors: There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real-estate assets. Most importantly this means that even if you are not Japanese or not a resident of Japan you can purchase and own land in Japan. While building value depreciates over time, land prices in Tokyo have been constantly on the rise in the last 20 years. Many banks in Tokyo offer mortgages for foreigners at interest rates as low as 1 percent. “About half of our clients are foreigners,“ shares Shohei Anada, deputy branch manager of Citibank’s Hiroo branch. “If your income is higher than three million yen per year and you have been in your current job for at least two years, you qualify for a mortgage.“ What you will buy seems to be build to last — at least for a couple of

decades. “Expectations of very high building quality in Japan are the norm, while regulations and building codes are also stringent. Seismic resistance requirements result in safer structures,“ mentions Fink. “Finishes and construction work are done to higher standards than in other Asian countries for both the luxury and mid-market sectors.“ Andrew Gauci, managing director at Lend Lease Japan adds “standards are particularly high for mechanical and electrical systems. Because of the high cost of energy in Japan, energy efficiency of equipment receives a lot of attention. The quality of the building envelopes in terms of thermal insulation is lagging relative to

“Environmentally better buildings have higher occupancy rates, higher rental rates, and sell for more.“ Andrew Gauci, managing director of Lend Lease Japan

the US and Europe but is better than in other Asian cities.“ However, “we have found that Japan is not as far advanced as Europe, the US and Australia in terms of environmental standards. The construction industry is inherently conservative,“ explains Gauci further. But “environmentally better buildings have higher occupancy rates, higher rental rates, and sell for more.“ Yet, some might worry about the value of their property in the future, fearing Japan’s infamous demographics. Japan is known as the fastest aging nation on the planet and for its falling population, but Tokyo’s demographics paints a different picture. The capital’s population has been on the rise for decades. This is fueled by two trends: More and more Japanese, especially young couples and singles, move from the countryside and smaller cities to the capital. Moreover has Tokyo’s foreign population been constantly increasing for years despite the Great East Japan Quake in 2011. “We advise clients to concentrate on real estate in Tokyo’s 23 wards. Real estate in the Japanese countryside is often both overpriced and running the risk of low demand in the future,“ shares Rigby. “Tokyo and core secondary sectors like Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka are where I would invest. I would advise against tertiary cities and the Japanese countryside,“ confirms Fink. “A 1LDK in a core Tokyo ward has a good chance of constant occupancy. It meets the demands of the broadest

Looking over Sumida river and the East side of Tokyo

demographic: Single households and couples,“ adds Rigby. The prices for real estate in Tokyo are relatively low compared to other developed Asian cities like Singapore and Hong Kong, and also remain under the

inflated bubble time prizes in the 80s and 90s. The economy is looking favorably thanks to Abenomics and Tokyo 2020 and interest rates are low. Tokyo’s popularity keeps the capital’s population growing. “The real estate market in Japan is fairly transparent, the legal and governmental

systems stable and vacancy rates are relatively low. Japan in general and Tokyo specifically are very interesting for foreign investors,“ sums up Fink. “Interested buyers have been and continue to make investments in advance of the two planned increases in consumption tax.“

South Shinjuku

Imperial Palace

Shibuya

3 “Japan in general and Tokyo specifically are very interesting for foreign investors.“ James Fink, senior managing director of Colliers International Japan

Minato Shiodome

Shinagawa

Chuo

Harumi Kachidoki Toyosu

4 Odaiba

Tokyo Bay

Rainbow Bridge

CR Kamiyacho Bldg. 7F, 1-11-9 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo

There are many motivations for buying real estate in Japan. Long term residents of Tokyo may desire to own their own home for stability. A young or growing family wants its own space. It is easy to tire of rental accommodations, which can be inflexible and of poor quality. Many buyers are also excited by the prospect of renovating or building their own home. Real estate in Tokyo is also an excellent investment. After years of deflation, property prices have come down dramatically and interest rates are very low. Rental returns, however, are still reasonably high. As such, it usually costs less per month to purchase a home with finance than it does to rent an equivalent property. On top of the financial advantages, the quality of construction is high, the ownership rights are sound and the purchase process is transparent.

APARTMENT OR HOUSE? The first decision is whether to buy an apartment or a house. Naturally, there are advantages and disadvantages of each. The table below provides a summary of some of the key points to consider.

COMPARATIVE CHART Positive

Negative

Apartment

Affordable Easy Maintenance Facilities

Depreciation Management Fees Parking Fees Low Control

House

Land Ownership Control Low Running Cost

Maintenance

Houses are more expensive and there arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t many available in good locations. The purchase price of an apartment is usually lower, but the building management fees and parking costs mean the monthly running costs are higher. The other issue to consider is control of the asset. In an apartment, decisions about building repairs and eventually rebuilding the apartment are made by the body corporate. As such, ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; control over their apartment is somewhat limited, and this can cause the asset to depreciate more quickly. On the other hand, with a house you are free to renovate and rebuild at will. This complete control allows the asset to retain value over time. Of course, there are downsides to owning a house as well. The owner is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep, which can be time consuming and costly.

BUYING GUIDE

WHY BUY?

PURCHASE PROCESS

1. Finance Speak to your bank about financing options. Housing Japan is able to help with introductions to expatriate friendly lenders. 2. Requirements List your requirements and discuss these with your agent. Consider the area, budget and level of accommodation you require. 3. Search Get to know the market and your agent. Spend time on the website and talking to your agent about properties. Look at the recent sales and understand the values and relative prices of properties in your target range. 4. Inspections The more you see, the better you will understand the market and the easier it will be to make the decision to buy when you find the right property. 5. Application When potential owners find the right property, they will need to submit an application to purchase. This is a non-binding written expression of a party’s interest to purchase the property at a certain price. An application shows the seller you are serious and will start the negotiation process. 6. Explanation of Important Matters Once the price has been agreed upon, your agent will start the contract process. The agent is required to investigate the details of the property and provide you with an Explanation of Important Matters. This document defines all the important terms of the contract. You should read and fully understand this document before executing the contract. 7. Executing the Contract The contract execution usually takes place at the agent’s offices and takes about two hours to complete. It is typical to pay the owner a deposit of 10 percent of the purchase price, or 10 million yen, at the time of the contract signing. 8. Loan Application Although you will probably have pre-approval from a lender, once the contract is complete you can make the formal loan application. It usually takes a month to six weeks for final approval, after which the final closing date can be set. If you using financing, the contract will have a clause saying that you are applying for a mortgage from a particular bank with a proposed approval date. If, for some reason, the mortgage is not approved, the contract will be terminated. 9. Final Settlement The final settlement usually takes place at the buyer’s bank and is handled by a judicial scrivener. The buyer will transfer the remaining balance to the seller’s account and the title of the property will be transferred to the buyer. On completion, the seller delivers all the keys to the property and the transfer of ownership is complete.

When purchasing a property in Japan, normally the taxes and fees will come to about five to six percent of the purchase price of the property. Note that official estimated valuations are generally much lower than the market price. Acquisition Tax Official land estimated value x 0.5 x 3% official building estimated value x 3% Registration Tax Registration Tax is about one percent of the standard taxable value Stamp Duty For a property of ¥50,000,000 to ¥100,000,000, the stamp duty will be ¥45,000 for the property contract and ¥60,000 for the mortgage contract. Judicial Scrivener Fees For a property of ¥100,000,000 the fee should be about ¥100,000. Agent’s Fee 3.15% of sale price + ¥63,000

Bank name

Qualifications

Property type

Maximum amount

MUFG

Worked over 3 years at the same company located in Japan

Apartment, land, house

up to 5 - 7 times annual income 80 to 100%

0.975_

up to 35years

Mizuho

Application for permanent residency

SMBC

Japanese spouse or permanent residency

Tokyo Star Bank Worked over 3 years at the same company located in Japan

Apartment, land, house

up to 5 - 7 times annual income 80 to 100%

0.975_

up to 35years

Citi Bank

Working Visa in Japan

Apartment, land, house

up to 5 - 7 times annual income 70 to 90%

1.3_

up to 35years

Working Visa in Japan

Apartment, house

up to 5 - 7 times annual income 70 to 75%

2.2_

up to 30years

Working Visa in Japan

Apartment, land, house

up to 5 - 7 times annual income up to 90%

3.5_

up to 30years

National Australia Bank Suruga Bank

SUMMARY OF COSTS

Living Japan Vol. 8

LTV

Interest rate Repayment term

A HISTORY OF TOKYO REAL A HISTORY OF ESTATE TOKYOPRICES REAL

rises to a grinding halt. The Bank of Japan also did its part by tigh interest rates to peak at six percent in 1990.

tions brought the price rises to a grinding halt. The Bank of Japan December 1989 the Nikkei reached also did its In part by tightening interest rates toaverage peak at six percent its in all-time ÂĽ38,915. In the following nine months it crashed to below ÂĽ20,000. Fi 1990. institutions were swamped with bad loans as asset prices tumble In December 1989 slower the Nikkei average its all-time high of prices were to react, butreached eventually starting dropping and ÂĽ38,915. In the following nine months it crashed to below ÂĽ20,000. ued to slide downwards for the next ten years. By 1995 the Bank o Financial institutions were swamped with bad loans as asset prices By Housing Japan hadLand dramatically reversed monetary policy, slashing tumbled. prices were slower toitsreact, but eventually starting rates to dropping and continued to downwards for the next tento years. ously unthinkable 0.5slide percent in a desperate effort stem the slid By Housing Japan By 1995 the Bank of Japan had dramatically reversed its monetary Land prices in central Tokyo are now at levels last seen in the economy and asset prices. policy, slashing rates to a previously unthinkable 0.5 percent in a desmid-eighties. After long, Tokyo slow climb during the decades of the Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Land prices in acentral are now at levels last seen in perate effort to stem the slide of the economy and asset prices. economic miracle, prices exploded in the latethe eighties in the mid-eighties. After a long, slow climb during decades of frenzy Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sof the economic miracle, prices exploded decade, in the late prices eightiescollapsed in the frenzy bubble economy. Over the following by over of the bubble economy. Over the following decade, prices collapsed 80 percent, reaching a low in 2002. Since then, the market has recovered by over 80 percent, reaching a low in 2002. Since then, the market somewhat and levels in 2011and were about 150were percent than they has recovered somewhat levels in 2011 abouthigher 150 percent As the new millennium began, the Japanese economy and asset were at the lows. newInmillennium began, the theBank Japanese an higher than they were at the lows. prices failedAs tothe recover. signs of desperation of Japaneconomy cut rates further 0.1 percent and In began monetarythe policies prices to failed to recover. signsextreme of desperation Bank in of Japan c the form of QE (Quantative Easing). Around this time the J-Reit marResidential land Prices Minato-ku (JPY/SQM) further to 0.1 percent and began extreme monetary policies in the ket began and the newly listed investment trusts caused a flurry of QE Easing).InAround this timeofthe market began a activity in (Quantative the property market. the early years theJ-Reit new decade QHZO\ OLVWHG LQYHVWPHQW WUXVWV FDXVHG D Ă XUU\ RI DFWLYLW\ LQ WKH SURSH there were trillions of yen worth of securitized real estate transactions 7 million undertaken, which leadyears to a mini â&#x20AC;&#x153;fund in there real estate ket. In the early of the newboomâ&#x20AC;? decade wereprices. trillions of yen w These investment trusts focused their attention on assets in the major securitized real estate transactions undertaken, which lead to a mi 6 million cities, with prices in some parts of central Tokyo rising as much 170 to boomâ&#x20AC;? in real estate prices. investment trusts focused 200 percent compared to lows seenThese in 2002, but the overall market their at 5 million continued to languish. on assets in the major cities, with prices in some parts of central Toky as much 170 to 200 percent compared to lows seen in 2002, but the

ESTATE PRICES

MINI BUBBLE

MINI BUBBLE (2002 TO 2008) (2002 TO 2008)

4 million

market continued to languish.

MINI BUBBLE BURST

3 million

MINI BUBBLE BURST

2 million 1 million 0 1975

By 2006 it seemed once again that a bubble was beginning, so the Ministry of Finance moved again to restrict investment real estate loans. The global financial markets then took center stage as the US sub-prime loan scandal erupted in 2007, culminating in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lehman shockâ&#x20AC;? of 2008. Foreign investors disappeared from the Japanese real estate By market the securitized recourse 2006asit seemed oncenonagain that a lending bubblemarket was beginning ceased to exist.of Finance moved again to restrict investment real estat Ministry 7KH JOREDO Ă&#x20AC;QDQFLDO PDUNHWV WKHQ WRRN FHQWHU VWDJH DV WKH 86 VXE Real estate prices in Tokyo once again slumped but did not return in 2007, culminating in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lehman to theloan lowsscandal of 2002. erupted By 2010 prices managed to stabilize at levels shockâ&#x20AC;? aroundForeign 150 percent abovedisappeared the lows. investors from the Japanese real estate ma the securitized non- recourse lending market ceased to exist.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;79â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;87â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;95â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;03â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

2001

BUBBLE PERIOD BUBBLE PERIOD (1982 TO 1990) (1982 TO 1990) Real estate prices across Japan rose by as much as six to seven times

EARTHQUAKE

Real estate prices in Tokyo once again slumped but did not r during the 1980s asset bubble. Confidence was strong as the Japa neseestate economic model, often referred toby asas â&#x20AC;&#x153;Japan to times On March 11, 2011 the Tohoku Japan wastodevastated Real prices across Japan rose muchInc.,â&#x20AC;? as sixseemed to seven the lows of 2002. By 2010region pricesof managed stabilize atbylevels arou be invincible. Japanese corporations awash with cash made speculaan enormous earthquake, tsunami and the meltdown of the FukusGXULQJ WKH V DVVHW EXEEOH &RQĂ&#x20AC;GHQFH ZDV VWURQJ DV WKH -DSDQHVH percent above the lows. tive purchases of real estate and corporate assets all over the world. hima nuclear power station. Tokyo also experienced a large tremor, economic model, oftenlow referred as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Japan Inc.,â&#x20AC;? seemed to be invinAt home in Japan, interesttorates and loose monetary policies but buildings and infrastructure were largely unaffected. Initially the cible.fueled Japanese corporations awash with prices. cash made speculative a strong economy and high stock Following the Plaza purreal estate market froze as buyers were very nervous to commit in Accord in 1985, yencorporate appreciatedassets from around 240 yen to theAt UShome the wake of the disaster. As the situation stabilized and the recovery chases of real estatethe and all over the world. dollarlow to about 120rates yen in lessloose than monetary a year. In response, Bankaofstrong efforts in Tohoku commenced, real estate transactions began again in Japan, interest and policies the fueled Japan lowered interest rates from 5.5 percent in 1983 down to 2.5 and the price levels in Tokyo are basically unchanged from before the economy and prices. easing Following the Plaza Accord in 1985, percent in high 1987. stock This dramatic of monetary policy at a time of the earthquake.On March 11, 2011 the Tohoku region of Japan was devasta an enormous earthquake, tsunami and the meltdown of the Fuk yen appreciated from around 240 yen to the US dollar to about 120 yen economic strength sparked an explosion of real estate transactions and high stock prices. Adding fuel to the fire, the government under nuclear power station. Tokyo also experienced a large tremor, b in less than a year. In response, the Bank of Japan lowered interest rates Prime Minister Nakasone reduced corporate tax rates from 42 perings and infrastructure were largely unaffected. Initially the real esta from 5.5 percent in 1983 down to 2.5 percent in 1987. This dramatic easing cent to 30 percent, and slashed top marginal income tax rates from ket froze as buyers were very nervous to commit in the wake of the of monetary policy at a time of economic strength sparked an explosion 70 percent to 40 percent. It was said at the time that the value of the As the situation stabilized and the recovery efforts in Tohoku comm RI UHDO HVWDWH WUDQVDFWLRQV DQG KLJK VWRFN SULFHV $GGLQJ IXHO WR WKH Ă&#x20AC;UH WKH Imperial Palace in Tokyo exceeded the value of all the real estate in California. LandPrime in Ginza 4-chome was reported to have tradedtax at rates real estate transactions began again and the price levels in Tokyo a government under Minister Nakasone reduced corporate ÂĽ90,000,000 ($750,000 at the time) per square meter.

EARTHQUAKE

from 42 percent to 30 percent, and slashed top marginal income tax rates from 70 percent to 40 percent. It was said at the time that the value of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo exceeded the value of all the real estate in CaliTHE BUBBLE BURST fornia. Land in Ginza 4-chome was reported to have traded at ÂĽ90,000,000 As asset prices reached extreme levels, the government tried to slow ($750,000 at the time) per square meter.

cally unchanged from before the earthquake.

the growing bubble and introduced policies which led to the bursting of the bubble.

In 1990BURST the Ministry of Finance put restrictions on the total loan volBUBBLE

ume of real estate lending, which caused an immediate and dramatic drop in the availability of credit. Other government restrictions resultAs reached levels, the to slow edasset in theprices need for buyers extreme to seek approval fromgovernment the local wardtried office the growing bubbleof and introduced policies which ledThese to therestricbursting of for transactions land sized over 100 square meters.

the bubble. In 1990 the Ministry of Finance put restrictions on the total loan volume

RENTING GUIDE

Getting the right apartment for your individual needs is very important when relocating, especially when moving overseas. Finding that perfect place in a city as expansive as Tokyo can seem overwhelming, so be prepared to spend some time house hunting to get a good idea of the types of apartments available. Typically, you will probably need to see at least ten to 20 properties before making your final decision. However rest assured, whether you are coming to Tokyo on an expat package with a housing budget or are paying out of pocket, there is bound to be an apartment well suited to you.

EXPAT APARTMENTS Properties that cater specifically to expats are generally priced over ¥350,000 per month and include major appliances such as a washer, dryer, dishwasher, phone and phone line, and refrigerator. They require four to six months’ rent as a security deposit, but no key money.

TYPICAL JAPANESE APARTMENTS Apartments designed with Japanese renters in mind often cost under ¥350,000 per month in rent and do not come with any appliances or furnishings. They require between one and four months’ rent as a security deposit, in addition to another one to two months’ rent for key money. Most apartments in Japan are leased on two-year contracts, and a contract renewal fee of one month’s rent is charged for each additional two years a tenant wishes to stay. Once you have found a suitable apartment or house, you will need to make the necessary contractual arrangements before moving in. Before signing any contracts, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with some of the rental regulations and customs in Japan. Understanding some of the differences that exist between your home country and planning ahead will help to prevent any problems that may arise in the future regarding your new home.

AGENCY COMMISSION (CHUKAI TESURYO)

There is a standard agency commission of one month’s rent plus five percent tax.

SECURITY DEPOSIT (SHIKIKIN)

Landlords will often request two to four months’ rent in advance as a security deposit. When a tenant moves out or the lease expires, the cost of cleaning and any necessary repairs will be deducted from this security deposit.

KEY MONEY (REIKIN)

The concept of key money is unique to Japan and requires some clarification. In short, key money is a non-refundable upfront payment

Living Japan Vol. 8

to the landlord and is usually equivalent to one or two months’ rent. This may not be well received by foreign residents unfamiliar with the concept, but the good news is, it is usually only required in the case of typical Japanese-style apartments. Even then, many landlords recently are open to negotiating on key money, and some are beginning to forego it altogether. In the case of the more expensive expat properties, key money is not usually requested at all. In the event that key money is required, it may be possible to pay it in monthly installments spread out over the two year contract. For example, if the rent is ¥120,000 a month and the key money is ¥240,000, you could pay ¥130,000 per month for two years.

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE FEE (KANRIHI)

In some Japanese apartments, a monthly building maintenance fee will be added to the rent. In the case of expat apartments, maintenance fees are almost always included in the monthly rent.

RENEWAL FEE (KOSHINRYO)

In the case of typical Japanese apartments, a non-refundable renewal fee is often charged each time the two-year lease is renewed. This fee is typically equal to one month’s rent and is paid to the landlord.

INSPECTION - CHECKLIST Before signing a lease for an apartment or house, it is a good idea to do a thorough inspection of the property to ensure there are no surprises after moving in. Be sure to check the following: 1. Is there cable TV and internet access in the building? 2. Is there satellite TV in the building? If not, check to see if the owner will either install a satellite dish for you, or allow you to install your own satellite dish. 3. Are the TV and phone jacks located in places where you would want to use a TV or phone? 4. Is there ample closet space for your belongings? 5. What is the condition of the paint, carpet and wallpaper? 6. Does the apartment have central air conditioning or separate wall units in the bedroom and living room? 7. Are any appliances provided in good working condition? 8. Have your real estate agent check to see if there are any construction sites nearby. There is a lot of construction in Tokyo with new buildings going up in every area, and this may be noisy or change the conditions around your building by blocking views. 9. Car owners should ensure their cars fit in the parking space provided, as some parking garages are very small, have a low ceiling, or are the elevator type. Be especially careful if you plan to buy a large car or SUV. Is there any bicycle parking?

APPLICATION & CONTRACT SIGNING Once you have found a property that is right for you, your real estate agent will send an application on your behalf to the owner. The application, signed by the human resources department of your company in the case of a company contract, will include a bid for the rent, desired move-in date, and any other requests you may have. There is a possibility that an application will be rejected by the landlord, in which case you’ll have to continue your search for another suitable apartment. After both parties have agreed on the rent and terms, the owner will send a draft of the contract to your real estate agent or company. Contracts are almost always in Japanese, so it is important to review them carefully with a Japanese person before signing.

Living Japan Vol. 8

CANCELLATION FEES If a tenant cancels the lease after signing but before moving in, there will be a one-month penalty charged. In the case of cancellation of the contract after moving in but before the two-year lease has expired, tenants must give between one and two months’ advance notice, depending on the terms of the contract. If tenants move out suddenly and are not able to stay the one or two months required, the remaining rent for that period will still be charged.

UTILITIES Generally speaking, the total cost of water, gas and electricity bills in Japan is said to be about seven to ten percent of the monthly rent. Utilities have a basic monthly starting fee, even in months when they are not used there will still be a small charge.

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING For most tenants in Japan, the most expensive utility bill will be electricity, depending on how often the air conditioning and heating is used. Tokyo summers are very hot and humid, and the winters are dry and cold. In many apartments there are individual heating and cooling units in each room, allowing for much better localized climate control, which is likely to be more economical than central air-conditioning. Some larger family apartments and houses will have two electricity bills, one that is only for air conditioning and the other for all other electricity used that month.

SECURITY DEPOSIT DEDUCTIONS When tenants vacate a property in Japan, they almost always have to pay a cleaning fee even if they have cleaned the apartment or house themselves before leaving. This fee is normally about ¥1,000 to ¥1,500 per square meter, so the bill for a 100m2 apartment would be between ¥100,000 and ¥150,000.

DAMAGE Each time a tenant moves out of a house or apartment, a damage inspection will be conducted. This is done with the owner and/or his representative, the real estate agent, and sometimes the tenant. The inspection is necessary to determine whether or not any damage has occurred. If there is damage, the cost of repairs will be invoiced to the tenant or his company and deducted from the original security deposit.

GUIDE TO RENTING APARTMENTS By Housing Japan The process of renting apartments and houses is quite particular in Japan. Therefore it is important for newcomers to familiarize themselves with the basic procedures. These seven steps outline the process from house hunting through to moving out.

PROPERTY INSPECTION & MOVING IN On the move-in date you will receive the keys from the agent or owner and an orientation of your new apartment or house. At this time, you should ask the owner to make a note of any existing damage, if any, so that you will not be responsible to pay for these repairs when you move out. When you leave the property, you or your company will be responsible to pay for any damage that may have taken place during your stay, so take care to check the condition of the property thoroughly before moving in.

HOUSE HUNTING INQUIRIES It is a good idea to make a list of requirements for your new apartment or house and start house hunting about two months before your desired move-in date. Check the Housing Japan listings online and begin to get an idea of what type of property and location interests you (for example, an 80sqm 2LDK apartment in Hiroo). Choose several properties from our online showroom, keeping in mind that our inter-office database includes thousands of properties so our agents will be able to recommend many more properties based on your requests and initial choices. Once you have chosen some properties youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to check out, send an inquiry to Housing Japan using our our online request form or by email or phone.

APPLICATION Once you have chosen a property, one of our real estate agents will send an application on your behalf to the owner. The application, signed by you or the human resources department of your company, will include a bid for the rent, desired move-in date, and any other requests you may have.

SUPPORT DURING YOUR STAY During your stay in the property, you can call the management company or real estate agent at any time if you have any questions or problems with the apartment, such as the air conditioning unit not working, plumbing issues, TV or internet assistance, or if you need a parking permit for your car.

NEGOTIATION & CONTRACTS

APARTMENT VIEWINGS As the leasing market in Tokyo moves quickly, it is better to view your chosen properties as soon as possible before they are taken. Based on your top choices, our agents will arrange some apartment viewings for you. Part of the tour will include an orientation of the areas and local amenities. You should prepare a checklist of requirements and things to check for at each property.

After negotiations have been completed and both parties have agreed on the rent and terms, the owner will send a draft of the contract to your real estate agent or company (usually the human resources department). The contract will normally be for two years. After both parties have agreed to the draft, the owner will make an original contract for both parties to sign.

MOVING OUT When it is time for you to move out, the owner or management company will do a final house inspection and you will return all the keys to the owner. At this time, you and your agent will be able to negotiate with the owner over the damage fees. Note that for security reasons, if you have lost a key you will probably be charged for changing the locks, not just for making a new key.

A NEW LIFE, A NEW HOME, A NEW INTERIOR VISION. May’s can revitalize and revamp your living space. May’s Corporation has been assisting thousands of expatriates to settle into their new life in Japan for over 25 years. We also have years of valuable experience providing our interior design services to real estate developers and property owners. Our services are available in all of Tokyo’s 23 wards, in addition to surrounding areas in the Kanto region. Whether you decide to lease or buy, we can provide everything you need for your residence’s interior. May’s offers an eclectic mix of styles and designs, from traditional Asian and European antique and period furniture to modern classics and contemporary designs. We’re positive you will be impressed with our selection of fashionable, brand new items and the pristine condition of our reasonably priced, second hand furniture. We can also supply you with curtains, lamps and lighting fixtures, electrical appliances and even domestic essentials such as tableware and linen. Now you can start your new life, in Japan’s vibrant and exciting capital city, with few troubles and leave your own furnishings back home. At May’s, our professionally qualified interior specialists are wellequipped to advise you in the selection of designs that suit your personal tastes and requirements. Additionally we’re pleased to offer delivery and set-up services so that you can settle immediately into your new Tokyo residence.

May’s Corporation Basic Costs to Lease Furniture 1-bedroom home About ¥840,000 worth of furniture 1 year ¥50,000/month 2 year ¥35,000/month 3 year ¥25,000/month 2-bedroom home About ¥1.3 million worth of furniture 1 year ¥75,000/month 2 year ¥50,000/month 3 year ¥40,000/month 3-bedroom home About ¥1.9 million worth of furniture 1 year ¥115,000/month 2 year ¥75,000/month 3 year ¥60,000/month

Toranomon 30 Mori Bldg 1F 3-2-2 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Showroom business hours: Monday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday 10:00am-5:30pm Sunday & Public Holidays Closed

Tel 03-5402-4600 Fax 03-5402-4660 www.mays.co.jp/eng

East Side Story

ART & DESIGN

Exploring Central East Tokyo By Paul McInnes Tokyo’s Bakurocho area, a one-time garment district, is a labyrinth of narrow streets leading to a multitude of tiny eateries, old lady clothing stores with an occasional whiff of hospital wards, cool cafes and, of late, very stylish and underground art galleries and media spaces. Surprisingly, the area has resisted the hipster invasion which has blighted other cities with strong artistic and creative sensibilities. The nearby Kokugikan sumo arena in Ryogoku is scheduled to host the Olympic boxing matches for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics which will undoubtedly bring more investment to the east end of the capital. It’s a hybrid area, a postmodern quandary and urban palimpsest – a geographical mille-feuille which has been erased, broken and continually replaced layer upon layer. Although due to its geographical location, in Tokyo’s east end, it’s an area which is rich in both history and modernity. With Tokyo Skytree looming over the aged streets it’s a microcosm of the capital as a whole. There’s been a lot written in the domestic press about the regeneration of the area with the emphasis on an artistic community and clichéd comparisons with New York and London. This is untrue, however, as although there are plenty of interesting and worthwhile shops and galleries they are not particularly close in location or in spirit. Jeffrey Chiedo, the American owner of local gallery Motus Fort, summed it up in a recent interview, “Some of the press jumped the gun about Bakurocho. Each gallery has its own fan club but these people don’t go to other galleries. There’s little dialogue or discussion. Since the 90s Bakurocho and (nearby) MonzenNakacho have been art hubs and had a bunch of galleries, but all the galleries should get together and decide on a central and desirable location. I moved here because I thought it would bring curious and inquisitive visitors but this hasn’t happened yet.” This, however, shouldn’t keep you from jumping on the train and heading to Bakurocho which is, despite its disparate nature, a cultural and artistic goldmine. The Agata Takezawa building is a quarry of established and independent galleries and stores. It houses M Gallery in the basement which recent exhibitions have included Takashi Yasumara’s well-received The Earthly Paradise. On the ground floor is well-known gallery Taro Nasu while in the floors above you can find a café specializing in Lebanese cuisine, called 馬喰町 ART ＋ EAT,

ART & DESIGN Jamcover – a vintage bric-a-brac store and various other boutiques. It’s an unassuming building and has the feel and façade of a regular office building but it’s definitely worth visiting. Across the road you’ll come across the Colorworks Palette building which is home to Ristorante Renea in the basement, a cute café and art bookstore on the ground floor and a paint showroom and gallery on the upper floors. Literally round the corner is Jeffrey Chiedo’s Motus Fort gallery which exhibits a host of Japanese and international artists, gallery UG on the corner and further down and across the main street is Radium von Röntgenwerke AG which is easily recognizable for its red door façade and obscure mission/concept statement written above – hyper technik/solid shock/clever beauty. Bakurocho and surrounding districts such as HigashiNihonbashi, Kodenmacho and several other smaller stations has been conveniently dubbed CET or Central East Tokyo. It’s an attempt to categorize the district and to attract tourists and locals alike. It’s a fascinating place, a maze you should enjoy getting lost in. Devoid of pretension and bling which define so many other parts of Tokyo, CET is a cultural and historic fusion with strong links to its historic past and with a bright and ambitious future when the Tokyo Olympics comes rolling into town in the years ahead.

Living Japan Vol. 8

INTERIOR COLLECTION ・ WHERE MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL

CHINESE ANTIQUES

EXPERT INTERIOR DESIGN

Showroom & Office: Landcom Bld, 1F, 1-9-14 Azabudai Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0041 Telephone: 03-5561-0527 / Fax: 03-5572-7734

http://interiorcollection.net

contact@interiorcollection.net facebook.com/interiorcollection

BESPOKE FURNITURE

A Closer Look at Tokyo’s New National Stadium

MORE THAN JUST A SHRINE TO SPORTS

Living Japan Vol. 8

By Paul McInnes

It’s no real surprise that Tokyo was named as the host city for the 2020 Olympic Games. It’s one of the most vibrant places in the world. It’s a port, has several large sporting arenas already in place, has access to forest areas and is a city which is desperate to rebuild and regenerate in the hopes of revitalizing a nation which has been so badly deflated following the natural disasters of March 2011. One look at the details of Tokyo’s bid and you can see the potential for the city to rebuild and modernize itself. From the forest parks of Musashino and the sumo building in the city’s east end to the water side of Odaiba and the national stadiums in Shinjuku it’s an audacious bid to utilize, and in turn, transform the whole city. Naturally most of the focus will be centered on Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid’s plans for Tokyo’s New National Stadium which will be constructed on the site of the old Kasumigaoka National Stadium which was originally built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. With a site area of around 184,000sqm and a capacity of 80,000 people it’s going to be a fitting centerpiece for the games. Construction work will take a total of 42 months and the site is scheduled to be complete in time for the 2019 Rugby World Cup. In addition to sporting events the stadium is earmarked to host concerts, so much effort will be focused on high quality acoustics and sound systems. The structure will also be the first Olympic stadium to have a retractable roof in order to contain sound and weather issues. Another bonus is that the stadium seats will be movable so spectators can feel the movement of the game and the seating design can be modified for different kinds and sizes of events. The New National Stadium will also contain a sports museum, library, restaurant facilities and public training center. There will also be places designated for people to relax and a multi-story car park. A spokesperson for the Japan Sports Council added “Since most of the venues are located within eight kilometers of the Olympic Village, it will minimize the environmental footprint, especially through the maximum use of public transport, and help make the operations efficient. The area will become more active. Shops and restaurants around there will see a rise in income and the view of the city will completely change due to the stadium which embodies the concept of new town planning. This will also increase the area’s value. However there might be some disadvantages for local residents. The many international visitors might cause inconvenience in regards to their daily life, for example when shopping, looking for a parking space or a table when eating out. However these issues will be considered carefully by government agencies.“

In recent months the total operational expense for the new stadium has been reduced from 300 billion yen to 168.2 billion yen resulting in significant changes for the planned commercial facilities within the building. Additionally the stadium has been reduced in total size due to some very public criticism from some of Japan’s most high-profile architects who felt that the stadium was too big and out of scale for its surroundings. One of the most important aspects of any Olympics is the concept of legacy. The fact that the New National Stadium will be located next to Kenzo Tange’s famous, and still very much in-use, Yoyogi National Stadium, which was built for the 1964 games, is a sign that the Japanese authorities are keen to have a project which will be around for generations to come. Hadid’s ambitious design triumphed over several other international architects including Japanese firms SANAA, Toyo Ito and Azusa Sekkei. One of Japan’s leading architects Tadao Ando, who was on the judging panel, stated “The entry’s dynamic and futuristic design embodies the message Japan would like to convey to the rest of the world“. Hadid added that the design was “light and cohesive“ and that the structure “creates an exciting new journey for visitors.“

ODAIBA Odaiba was originally constructed in 1851 by the Tokugawa shogunate as a series of six fortresses in order to protect Tokyo from attack by sea, the primary threat being Commodore Matthew Perry’s Black Ships, which had arrived in the same year. Daiba in Japanese refers to the cannon batteries placed on the islands.

Today’s Odaiba is a popular shopping and sightseeing destination for Tokyoites and tourists alike. With many of the Olympic venues planned in the vicinity of Odaiba, visitors should keep an eye on the upcoming developments in the area, which will surely be worth a look.

The modern redevelopment of Odaiba started after the success of the Expo ‘85 in Tsukuba. The Japanese economy was riding high and Odaiba was to be a showcase of futuristic living, built at a cost of over $10 billion. Unfortunately, the “bubble economy” burst in 1991 and by 1995 Odaiba was a virtual wasteland, under populated and full of vacant lots. In 1996, the area was re-zoned from pure business to allow also commercial and entertainment districts. The area started coming back to life as Tokyo discovered the seaside it never had. Hotels and shopping malls opened up, several large companies (including Fuji TV) moved their headquarters to the island and transportation links improved.

Living Japan Vol. 8

Don’t Miss : • Fuji TV Building: An Odaiba landmark which looks like it’s built out of tinker toys. The giant ball suspended in the structure houses an upscale French restaurant. • Rainbow Bridge: Completed on August 26th 1993, this gateway to Odaiba is among the most beautiful modern bridges in Japan. Decorated with 444 lights which change according to the seasons. • Toyota MEGA WEB: A Toyota car technology showcase that will fascinate car fans. • Daikanransha: The world’s largest ferris wheel after the London Eye. • The Museum of Maritime Science: A six-story museum shaped like a full-sized ocean liner, unsurprisingly devoted to ships. One of the main displays, a gigantic turbine engine, was actually set in place first and the museum was built around it. • Tokyo Big Sight: If you’re visiting Tokyo on business, Japan’s largest exhibition and convention center might already be your destination. The four inverted pyramids are hard to miss and worth a look. • Oedo-Onsen-Monogatari: Tokyo’s newest and largest (artificial) hot spring complex, designed in Edo-era (1800s) style and featuring an endless array of bathtubs, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and resting rooms for sleeping, too. • Odaiba Seaside Park: Features the only beach in mainland Tokyo. • Joypolis: A giant game center and amusement arcade in Deck Tokyo Beach shopping center.

Odaiba is linked to Tokyo proper by many bridges and tunnels, including the scenic Rainbow Bridge. By public transport Odaiba is accessible via the automated Yurikamome transit system from Shinbashi as well as with the privately operated Rinkai Line running between Osaki and Shin-Kiba.

ASAKUSA FESTIVALS

ASAKUSA Japan is a culture of legends, and Asakusa has its own rich history made up of both fact and fiction. Around a thousand years ago the Hirokuma brothers found a statue of Kannon in their fishing nets, and the village chief dutifully enshrined it. The Asakusa shrine was thus established in 1649, and the three people in the legend were consecrated as gods of the shrine, hereby earning it the nickname Sanja-sama (the shrine of the three gods). Senso-ji, also known as Kannon-sama, has a history that spans over 1,370 years. It is the oldest temple in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and is frequently visited by overseas travelers. The three-meter-high paper lantern that hangs in the gates has become the symbol for Asakusa and the Senso-ji shrine. It is located along Asakusa Street, and bears the characters Kaminari-mon, meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;thunder gateâ&#x20AC;?. Most notable among the other historical buildings in the area is a five-story pagoda, which is the second highest pagoda in Japan. In addition, many annual events are held at Senso-ji, including Hari-Kuyou, a memorial service for old needles, in February, the Chinese lantern plant market in July, and a battledore market in December. Asakusa-jinja, located next to Senso-ji, is also the site of the famous Sanja Festival. Held in May, the festival is Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and

Living Japan Vol. 8

one of three that have been held continuously since the Edo era. Stretching from Kaminari-mon to Senso-ji, the Nakamise shopping district is the oldest such surviving area in Japan, dating back to the 1700s. Among the approximately 300 meters of stores are structures that first opened during the Edo era and which still continue to serve the patrons of Nakamise to this day. Lining the streets of the Nakamise area, these treasures from an older era, along with their younger neighbors, offer numerous area specialties, including kaminari-okoshi (toasted rice patty snacks), ningyo-yaki (red bean filled pastries molded into various shapes), toys from the Edo era, tekisenbei (large circular rice crackers), and tortoise shell crafts. Intersecting the heart of Nakamise is Shin-Nakamise. Collectively, these two areas are home to more than 150 stores. In addition to the abundance of traditional crafts and foods, Nakamise also offers a glimpse into the heritage of Asakusa in a truly unique fashion; painted on the shutters of the stores is the Asakusa Picture Scroll, a sequence of scenes depicting the many festivals and events held in Asakusa. Designed by the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, the colorful shutters ensure that even after-hours visitors to Nakamise will be able to enjoy the rich history of the area.

TOKYO SKY TREE

WORLD STATUS LANDMARK London has Big Ben. Paris has the Eiffel Tower. Shanghai has the Oriental Pearl Tower. Dubai has the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab. But unlike these and other world cities, Tokyo never had a clearly identifiable landmark recognized by people around the world. Not until the opening of Tokyo Skytree in 2012, that is. This iconic new mega structure finally gave Tokyo and its residents a landmark to rival those of other cities. The new 634-meter tower and the commercial complex of offices and shops surrounding it breath new life into both Tokyo’s east side and Japan as a whole. Completed in February 2012, the Tokyo Skytree officially opened in the spring of 2012. Two observation platforms at 350 meters and 450 meters offer unsurpassed views of the city, while also serving as the metropolis’s new digital broadcasting tower. History In 2003 six terrestrial broadcasters including NHK met to discuss the future of communications in Tokyo. It was decided that a new tower, one over 600 meters in height, was needed for future digital broadcasting and telecommunications. The “New Tower Project” was formed, with approval given by the Land Readjustment Association in 2003. The public was encouraged to submit names for the new tower to a nationwide vote. In 2008 the name Skytree was selected, and the massive construction project began.

Tower Design Tokyo Skytree features a silhouette inspired by historical Japanese architecture, featuring sori (concave curves) and mukuri (convex curves). The towering structure starts out as a pyramid at the base and slowly transforms into a cylindrical shape as it rises. Designers say this will help reduce structural mass and cast smaller shadows on the town below.

Safety and Strength Japanese engineers have a long history of innovative design and the most advanced earthquake proofing technologies. Even five-story pagodas, symbols of Japan for hundreds of years, are constructed in such a way that each floor is independent, with a central core pillar. This ancient method helps reduce building stress in high winds or tremors. The same lessons have been scaled up and combined with new technology in the Tokyo Skytree, making this one of the most stable structures in the world.

Design and Lighting Every aspect of the Tokyo Skytree has been thoughtfully planned. The white color scheme symbolizes the traditional Japanese sense of beauty and is inspired by aijiro, a traditional light shade of indigo dye. At night the tower is lit up by two types of lighting that are used alternately day to day. Expert lighting designer Hirohito Totsune created the illuminations based on the concepts of iki, the manly spirit held by the commoners of Edo and miyabi, a traditional ideal meaning elegance. Though the beacon will shine across the city, the latest energy-saving technology means that the lighting system is as eco friendly as possible.

In and Around the Tower Tokyo Skytree Tembo Galleria - 450m The Tokyo Skytree Tembo Galleria stretches from 445 meters above ground level to Tokyo Skytree’s highest floor at 450 meters via a glass tube. This is where Tokyo Skytree really earns its name.

Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck - 350m Rising 350 meters above the ground, the Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck is surrounded by a five-meter-high glass viewing space that provides a 360-degree panoramic view. Visitors can see up to 70 kilometers away on a clear day. It is also home to the Skytree Cafe, The Skytree Shop, and Sky Restaurant 634.

Tokyo Solamachi Tokyo Solamachi is a large commercial complex surrounding the base of the tower. It offers a wealth of shopping, dining and entertainment with over 300 shops and restaurants. Tokyo Solamachi is also home to an entire floor of original souvenirs, including character goods, Japanese traditional handicrafts and snacks. It is worth the trip to Tokyo Solamachi for the food alone, as there is a large food market, food court, and four floors of restaurants. The restaurants in the two top floors of the Tokyo Skytree East Tower feature great views looking up at Tokyo Skytree.

Getting There: Tokyo Skytree is located in a major tourist area on the east side of Tokyo close to Asakusa. The closest stations are Tokyo Skytree and Oshiage (Skytree) Stations. Tokyo Skytree Station, Tobu Skytree Line From Asakusa Station, one stop on the Tobu Skytree Line, or a 15-minute walk From Ueno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), transfer to the Tobu

Skytree Line at Asakusa Station Oshiage (Skytree) Station, Tobu Skytree Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Narita Sky Access Keisei Line, Toei Asakusa Line From Tokyo Station, take the JR Sobu Rapid Line and transfer at Kinshicho to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Asakusa Station, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line 5 minutes from Ueno Station and a 15-minute walk to Tokyo Skytree

For more information and ticket reservations: www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en www.sorakara-chan.jp/

GINZA Ginza is home to neon lights, brand name shopping, historic and cultural sights, and stunning modern architecture. It offers the culture lover a chance to experience traditional kabuki in the newly reopened theater, eat Japanese style grilled chicken in the Yakitori Alley, visit the old Imperial garden at Hama Rikyu, and shop for Japanese trinkets such as samurai swords and beautiful origami paper. For the technophile there is nothing quite like the world famous Sony Building, where many of Sony’s wide selection of products are available for demonstration across six floors. History The name Ginza (“silver mint”) is derived from an official organization established in 1612 whose purpose was to cast silver into coins for the then-ruling Tokugawa Bakufu, during the Edo era. The name stuck in the minds of the people and Ginza became the official area name in 1869. When largely destroyed in a massive fire that struck the area in 1872, the Tokyo governor at the time, Yuri Kimimasa, proposed to reconstruct the town using bricks in order to prevent further fires from taking their toll. Within five years, Ginza had largely changed into a Western-style

Living Japan Vol. 8

neighborhood with countless two-story brick buildings, a change that also facilitated it becoming the first Western-style shopping district in Tokyo. Shopping Ginza is home to some of the best department stores in Japan, as well as flagship boutiques of nearly every imaginable international and Japanese fashion and jewelry brand. Mitsukoshi is the oldest and most famous department store in Japan, and remains a popular shopping destination today. Across the street is the Wako department store, with its remarkable clock tower. It is known for its original, elegant, and stylish products as much as it is famed for the higher end and imported prestigious brands it provides to shoppers. Getting There Ginza is one of the hubs of Tokyo’s transportation network, and is accessed by both subway and Japan Railways. By JR, disembarking at JR Yurakucho or Shimbashi stations provides an overland access route for those who don’t mind walking a little.

TSUKIJI Just a 10- to 15-minute walk from Ginza on Harumi-dori, Tsukiji is home to a world-famous wholesale market selling fish, fruits and vegetables. Regularly handling more than 2,000 tons of marine products per day, Tsukiji ranks at the top of world fish markets in every measurable category. It handles more than 400 different types of seafood, from sardines to golden brown dried sea slug caviar. Even if you are not planning to watch the exciting and renowned tuna auction, it’s best to get to Tsukiji early—before 8 a.m.—to see the action. Just be sure to be aware of your surroundings and stay out of the way of vendors and those delivering products between the ships and the stalls, as tourists that impede or slow business transactions are understandably frowned upon. Tsukiji is one of few shopping spots in Tokyo where haggling is common and accepted. However, it is important to note that prices are already lower than the regional averages, so it’s best not to push the sellers too hard. A spattering of non-food items, such as hand made knives and ceramics, are also available. Tsukiji Fish Market is closed on alternate Wednesdays as well as every Sunday. Sushi fanatics will tell you that it’s best to avoid eating sushi in Japan on Wednesdays, on the grounds that you risk getting the Tuesday leftovers. One of the most famous sushi bars in Japan—and perhaps the world—is Daiwa Sushi. Split into two neighboring stalls, this sushi bar regularly has a wait of over 30 minutes. There is no menu, and the ¥2,100 set includes the chef’s selection of about seven to eight nigiri zushi, one tuna roll, miso soup and tea.

Don’t Miss : • The Sony Building, where • Hamarikyu, a former the company tests its latest imperial garden with a products teahouse in the middle of a lake. It’s also along the wa• Yakitori Alley in nearby ter bus route from Asakusa Hibiya, where old-style street cafés under the train • Tokyo International tracks serve barbecued Forum, an architectural chicken on a stick with beer gem featuring a lofty, nautical-inspired glass and steel • Ito-Ya, the city’s most design famous stationery store, with a wide array of special- • Hakuhinkan, one of ty papers, writing utensils, Tokyo’s biggest toy stores greeting cards and more

MEIJI JINGU SHRINE By Elisabeth Lambert Walking through the massive and imposing cypress torii that marks the entrance to Meiji Jingu, arguably Japan’s most famous Shinto shrine, is to encounter a side of Tokyo that is poles apart from the hubbub and commotion normally associated with the city. Surrounded by densely wooded grounds spanning 700,000 square meters, the few minutes’ walk it takes to reach the shrine complex seems to have a specific purpose: to allow visitors to shed the stresses of everyday life and drink in the undeniable calm that takes over as the shrine draws near. And fittingly so, seeing as the shrine was erected as a way for the Japanese people to commemorate the virtues of Emperor Meiji, who died in 1912. His role in the Meiji Restoration, which saw the country reestablish imperial rule, was significant, with Meiji becoming the first emperor of what is now recognized as modern Japan. Construction of the shrine commenced in 1915, and it was formally dedicated to the emperor on November 1, 1920. Yet in 1945 Meiji Jingu suffered the same fate as many other structures in Tokyo, when its original buildings were destroyed during World War II air raids of the city. After a conscientious public fundraising effort, Meiji Shrine was rebuilt, with restoration concluding in 1958. The shrine itself is actually made up of two major areas, known as the Naien and the Gaien. The Naien refers to the inner area, which is centered on the shrine buildings and includes a museum that houses items belonging to the emperor and empress. The outer area of the shrine is known as the Gaien and incorporates the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, a range of sporting facilities (such as the

Living Japan Vol. 8

Meiji Jingu Gaien Stadium and Tokyo Olympic Stadium), and the Meiji Memorial Hall, which was initially employed for government meetings but is today utilized for Shinto weddings. Indeed, most weekends offer the chance to catch a glimpse of a priest, bride, groom and their relevant attendants, dressed in traditional wedding kimono and garments, making their way from the shrine to the hall. The shrine of course has religious importance within the Japanese Shinto faith, and specific spiritual holidays and events on the Japanese calendar, such as New Year, Coming of Age Day in January, Children’s Festival in May and the Tanabata (Star) Festival in July provide a great occasion to experience Japanese customs and traditions firsthand. Its expansive setting is also seen as a place for both recreation and relaxation among locals and tourists alike. In fact, the serene forest that greets visitors to Meiji Shrine today was the result of a true labor of love for the Japanese people. When building of the shrine initially began, people from all over Japan donated trees, which were painstakingly planted by volunteers to create the striking woodland. Today, over 245 different species of trees grow in the shrine’s grounds. Whether looking for a beautiful and unique tourist experience with fantastic photo opportunities, or an easy-to-access sanctuary in which to gather thoughts and take five from the grind of Tokyo city life, a visit to Meiji Jingu will undoubtedly impart a sense of enlightenment.

Opening Hours: Daily, from dawn until dusk. On December 31, the shrine is open all night. Admission: Free Closest Station: Harajuku station (JR Yamanote line)/ Tokyo Metro MeijiJingumae station (Chiyoda/Fukutoshin lines). Exit through the South shrine gate.

MARUNOUCHI & THE IMPERIAL PALACE By Elisabeth Lambert Sitting above Tokyo station, Marunouchi is generally known as the financial district of Tokyo, with major banks and the Tokyo Stock Exchange situated in the area. However, the name Marunouchi literally means “inside the circle” and refers to the outer moat of the nearby Imperial Palace, so it’s no surprise to learn that the calm and quiet grounds of the Imperial Palace are within a few minutes’ walk of Tokyo Station.

and friends, undertaking Tai Chi on the well-manicured lawns or simply enjoying the feeling of soft, fresh grass underfoot.

Located in the exact center of the city, the view when approaching the palace grounds is breathtaking. Greeted by a large wide moat bordering abrupt and commanding stone walls, it’s easy to get a sense of how dramatic and imposing this type of compound would have been in feudal Japan.

There is also a popular three-mile ‘Around the Imperial Palace’ jogging course that starts near Sakuradamon and carries on around the inner moat of the Palace. It also takes runners past the Imperial Palace Public Square, Takebashi and the cherry tree-lined Chidorigafuchi, followed by the British Embassy, the National Theater and the National Diet Building (for a map, see: www.city.chiyoda.tokyo.jp/english/e-guide/jogging). And every December 23 (the emperor’s birthday) and January 2 (New Year’s), public access is granted to the inner palace grounds to see the members of the imperial family, who make several public appearances— albeit behind bulletproof glass—on those days.

Once known as Edo Castle, in November 1868 the emperor made it his new residence upon the Meiji Restoration and resulting surrender of the Shogunate. He renamed it Tokei Castle, before changing its name again in 1869 to the Imperial Castle.

Throughout the year, guided tours of the palace are available. Tours are in Japanese (an English pamphlet and audio guide are provided) and must be reserved in advance via the Imperial Household Agency (see www.kunaicho.go.jp).

The original imperial castle was lost to a fire in 1873 and a new Imperial Palace castle was built on the site in 1888. Again, the majority of the structures were destroyed in 1945 during the air raids of World War II and it was from the basement of its concrete library that Emperor Showa declared Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945. New buildings were constructed in the 1960s and renamed the Imperial Residence before a portion of the grounds was opened to the public in 1968. Covering an area of 1.32 square miles, the grounds today incorporate the main palace, the private residences of the imperial family, administrative offices, an archive and a museum. While the inner palace grounds are not open to the public, Kitanomaru Gardens, the East Gardens and Kyoko-Gaien are popular areas for tourists and Tokyo residents to relax, whether it be via picnicking with family

Opening Hours:

Closed:

Please note that last entry is half an hour before closing time. • March 1 to April 14: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • April 15 to August 31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • September 1 to October 31: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • November 1 to February 28/29: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Every Monday and Friday (open on national holidays except the emperor’s birthday, December 23) • From December 28 to January 3 • In circumstances where it’s deemed necessary to close the gardens due to imperial court functions or other occasions.

Admission: Free at entry/exit points: Ote-mon Gate, Hirakawa-mon Gate and Kitahanebashi-mon Gate.

Closest Station: The main entrance is located at Ote-mon Gate near Otemachi Station (Chiyoda, Marunouchi, Tozai Metro lines)

YOKOHAMA By Paul McInnes

Only a short train journey from central Tokyo, Yokohama offers a whole new experience, landscape and ambience compared to its hulking and bustling neighbor. Located in Kanagawa prefecture, Yokohama has a long and proud history as one of Japan’s foremost ports. Since the mid19th century, the city, which looks onto Tokyo Bay, has been involved in international trade. This, along with high numbers of Chinese immigrants and an influx of Americans in the mid-20th century due to the nearby Yokosuka military base, has contributed significantly to its cosmopolitan personality. Nestled between Sakuragicho and Minato Mirai stations are Landmark Tower and Landmark Plaza. Landmark Tower is a huge 70-floor skyscraper that includes a hotel and viewing areas with spectacular panoramic sights of Tokyo Bay and the greater Yokohama area. Landmark Plaza shopping complex takes up the first five floors of the structure and is a good spot to kick off a tour of Yokohama’s wealth of retail offerings. There are bookstores with foreign magazines and novels, fast-fashion chains such as Gap and H&M, interior shops including FrancFranc and whole floors devoted to restaurants and cafés for some much-needed post-shopping sustenance.

Living Japan Vol. 8

Situated next to Landmark Plaza is the Queen’s East complex, which offers a slightly more curated shopping experience with brands such as Margaret Howell, A.P.C., Tomorrowland and Adam et Ropé. Queen’s Square also offers a host of restaurants, cafés and coffee and ice cream shops. A quick stroll from Queen’s Square takes visitors past the Cosmo World amusement park and huge Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel to the World Porters mall, which houses a cinema, supermarket and retail and dining options. Slightly further along are the historical Akarenga Soko, or Red Brick Warehouses, which host art exhibitions, film festivals, musical competitions and theater productions. They also house several popular shops and restaurants, as well as the jazz club Motion Blue Yokohama, sister club to Tokyo’s renowned Blue Note. Following the designated walkways from the Red Brick Warehouses, in about 15 minutes sightseers will arrive at Osanbashi Pier, which affords beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the illuminated Minato Mirai skyline. It’s the oldest pier in Yokohama, originally built in the late 19th century, but it has been modernized over the last twenty years and restyled as an international passenger terminal and gateway to the city.

From the east side of Osanbashi Pier is the beautiful Yamashita Park, which opened in 1930 as Japan’s first seaside park. Visitors and natives use it as a rest spot or as a place to have an ice cream and enjoy stunning sea views. Yokohama also entertains a role as one of Japan’s top dating spots, and Yamashita Park plays a central part in attracting both younger and older couples looking for a quiet place by the sea and away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It is, however, Yokohama’s world famous Chinatown that, for many, is the main attraction of the city. A short walk from Yamashita Park and near both Ishikawacho and Motomachi-Chukagai stations is Asia’s largest Chinatown, home to hundreds of Chinese restaurants, souvenir stores and small food stalls selling delicious snacks including the ever-popular nikuman (meat buns), kuri (roasted chestnuts) and Chinese ramen noodles. It is said that the majority of Chinese residents come from Guangzhou, however the food on offer contains a huge array of Chinese cuisine, including the super spicy meals from Sichuan province. It really is a food lover’s paradise and the restaurants are often full, especially on weekends and holidays. This is a proud display of the history and personality of the area, which was established after many Chinese immigrants made their home there in the 19th century. In addition to a Chinese temple named Kanteibyo, there are

four colorful gates that stand as entrances to Chinatown. It is nearly always bustling with international and domestic visitors, and it’s easy to become happily lost in the area’s alleyways and the heavenly smells emanating from the restaurants and stalls. Yokohama is a city with a lot to offer. The affluent Motomachi shopping street, the hip streets of Bashamichi and the urban center surrounding Yokohama Station are also worth visiting. The city also acts as a gateway to other parts of Kanagawa prefecture, such as the beaches of Shonan and the historical areas of Kamakura and Enoshima island. In the past Yokohama was, perhaps unfairly, viewed as Tokyo’s less interesting brother. The city, however, has finally come into its own and can be seen as a metropolis in its own right, with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and cool and wide-ranging attractions. It’s a city that should be an essential destination to every visitor to Japan or to any resident needing a well-deserved break from the Japanese rat race.

IT IS NOT OBSESSION, IT IS LOVE

Why Japan’s Cuisine Will Capture You

By Dominic Carter

The beginning of 2014 marks the end of my fifteenth year in Japan. That’s more than enough time in one place for any self-respecting expat so, on visits back home, despairing friends and relatives will often ask what on earth I’m still doing here. I just point to my belly. You can tell everything you need to know about a country and its culture by the way they relate to food. To eat in a country is really to know it, and doing so in Japan has always been a revelation to me. Many foreigners who live here have criticized what they see as the stubborn or even obsessive aspects of the Japanese character. Japanese food has taught me to realize that such foibles have their benefits. Indeed more than simply learning that you can taste the obsession, indeed love, a chef has for his food, I have come to expect to do so. So, are Japanese chefs better than those overseas? I don’t think this is necessarily the case, although there is certainly a worship of process that results in an amazing consistency of output. Seldom do Japanese chefs disappoint. Nonetheless, apart from a deep respect for technique, Japanese chefs are naturally well connected with their customers. The small, owner-operated restaurants with an open kitchen, where the chef cooks and personally interacts with his customers almost guar-

Living Japan Vol. 8

antees good results. The need to face those you are feeding drives a different kind of attitude than if one is just tucked away safely in a kitchen. The thinking and values behind food culture in Japan mean that, with enough study, any style of cuisine can be successfully adapted here. For example, the French restaurants in Tokyo are the equal of any native French versions I have tried. However itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really in Japanese cuisine that you see some of the approach that makes food here so delicious. Take the ubiquitous tempura, a cuisine comprising of deep fried seafood and vegetables that was originally introduced to Japan by the Portuguese. It certainly sounds like it would be hard to mess up, and it is generally pretty well executed. But could taking this type of simple food to the next level of perfection create something altogether sublime? I can honestly say that a tempura meal I had two years ago was the best of my life. Tempura is not necessarily about perfecting the balance in the simple batter of flour and water, although this must be done. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about how unadulterated the oil used to cook it in is, although it should be pure. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not even about having the freshest ingredients possible, although they must be fresh. Tempura done right is an alchemy of form, temperature and texture that reveals the essence of what lies under the batter. To eat food cooked in this way is to know it better than to eat it raw. Indeed, for Japanese, cooking at its purest is not about creating new flavors, it is about uncovering and experiencing the true nature of food. All seasoning, sauce, adornment and technique is in the service of that aim. When I understood that point was when I started to really appreciate Japanese food. But, of course, eating is not about understanding as much as it is about experience. So, here is to hoping I will be here for another 15 years!

About the author: Dominic Carter is a long term resident of Tokyo and denizen of its dazzling array of restaurants. He is a keen foodie who writes a blog "Eating Out in Tokyo With Dominic".

HARUNAMI Harunami specializes in Teppanyaki (Japanese style barbeque) and Okonomiyaki (Japanese pizza), using only the freshest seafood, meat and vegetables. Okonomiyaki, including plenty of wild yam is the most popular dish on the menu. The Okonomiyaki course consists of seven dishes and includes mushrooms, seafoods, meats, sardine powder and Fujinomiya fried noodles. The chef’s recommendation is the hamburger steak, made from Okinawan Ishigaki beef, which will melt in your mouth. Courses are available from ¥2,625. Check out Harunami’s homepage for a short video on how to make the okonomiyaki. 4-3 Tsukudo-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 03-3260-4729 http://harunami.net Mon-Sun 18:00~24:00

AOYAMA JIN At Aoyama Jin, customers can enjoy Kaiseki Ryori; traditional dishes served after Japanese tea ceremony. Kaiseki dishes were served by the host to treat his guests who attended the ceremony. Following this Japanese tradition, the owner of Aoyama Jin, Tomii-san, treats his customers by making matcha green tea right in front of their eyes, using a bamboo whisk to stir and whip it. Three course options with a well-balanced succession of dishes are available for both lunch and dinner. Come and enjoy Japanese real “omotenashi” on a special occasion. 3-9-1 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 03-6721-1131 http://aoyama-jin.jp Mon-Sat Lunch 12:00~ / Dinner 18:00~ (reservation required)

CHATEAU MERCIAN TOKYO GUEST BAR Japan’s oldest winery has recently opened a casual, modern wine bar in Akasaka. The bar serves wines produced at their winery in Yamanashi, which are carefully paired with matching dishes ranging from Japanese finger food to European tapas. Their Mariko vineyard Omnis 2009 was recently awarded 90 points by Wine Spectator. We highly recommend this spot to anyone wanting to savor Japanese wines, including those produced from the local koshu grape. Prices are surprisingly reasonable — a glass of wine starts from 250yen and daily lunch sets including a glass of wine are served for 1,050yen.

Mori Ark Hills South Tower B1F, 1-4-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 03-6441-2230 www.chateaumercian.com Daily from 11:00-23:00 / L.O. 22:00 Saturday, Sunday and holidays until 22:00 / L.O. 21:00

Living Japan Vol. 8

MUTSUKARI

SHIRO Specializing in Kaiseki Ryori, the banquet style cuisine of the Japanese emperors, Shiro takes you to the world of traditional Japanese fine dining. The elaborate cuisine is complemented by an interior design resembling a classic Edo house and the beautiful lacquer ware and Japanese pottery the dishes are served on. The food is accompanied by fine sake. Shiro also provides seasonal and nabe (Japanese hot pot) courses with selected ingredients reflecting the season. Shiro’s chef makes a trip to Tsukiji every morning to personally select the fish and shellfish for the menu. Highly recommended to all lovers of Japanese cuisine and for special occasions.

The concept of this restaurant is “super Kappo.” Kappo is one of the most traditional Japanese dishes, fairly unknown to most foreigners. The owner Akiyama Yoshihisa has been trained in this cooking style particular to Japanese dishes and recreates Tokyo style Kappo at his restaurant. Mutsukari provides course menus, which can be flexibly changed according to the customer’s taste. There are three course options: Mutsukari vegetable course, chef’s choice and the Kiwami course. The latter is the most popular one, including lots of fish, meat and fresh vegetables. Come and experience real Japanese cuisine with us. Pony Group Bldg. 6-7F, 5-5-9 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 03-5568-6266 03-5568-6267 www.mutsukari.com/ Mon-Sat 17:30~23:00

3-5-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 03-5414-2311 info@shiro-tokyo.jp www.shiro-tokyo.jp Mon-Sat 11:30~15:00 / 18:00~23:00 Lunch L.O. 14:30 / Dinner L.O. 22:00 (reservation required)

TENKAWA Tenkawa is the place to enjoy a combination of fresh vegetables and seasonal fish. Carefully selected ingredients are cooked carefully to retain their full flavor. The owner’s recommendation is of course toro, fatty tuna, which melts in your mouth. For dinner, the “Omakase” course offers you the owner’s choice of the day prepared using only the freshest ingredients. Lunchtime courses are also available. Choose between a counter seat, where customers can eat sushi while watching the chef making handrolled sushi, or the private room for a more intimate setting. Sanko Bldg. 1F, 8-5-19 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 03-3572-1633 www.ginza-tenkawa.jp Mon-Fri 11:30~14:00 / 17:00~23:00 Sat 11:30~14:00 / 17:00~23:00

SUPER5 Since it opened 10 years ago in the Omotesando area, Super5 has achieved great popularity among lovers of French cuisine. Enjoy a casual meal with selected wines in the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere with its toned-down lighting. The menu offers a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes - you may just want to try all of them. A good option are the courses available for both lunch and dinner. The daily lunch offers four options starting from 1,000yen, giving you a choice of pasta, curry, beef rice or gratin. All are served with handmade bread, soup, salad and a drink. Jingumae Bldg.1F, 3-5-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 03-5785-1131 info@super5.jp www.super5.jp Mon-Sat 11:30~23:00 / Lunch L.O. 17:00 / Dinner L.O. 22:00

Club 360 in Moto-Azabu

HOLISTIC HEALTH & FITNESS IN TOKYO The first of its kind in Tokyo, Club 360 caters to all your fitness and rehabilitation needs. This unique health and fitness club was founded by Australian brother-in-law team Nathan Schmid and Sam Gilbert. Specialising in rehabilitation, personal training and group fitness classes they endeavored to put together an innovative facility combined with the best trainers and physiotherapists in Tokyo. “Club 360 was created to provide a space where an integrated team of health professionals can produce superior results for their clients,” says Schmid. “The club was designed by trainers and practitioners to offer everything needed to fully implement our expertise in a safe and nonintimidating environment”. At Club 360, you can expect to see fast results with a tailored, personal program put together for every single client. “We wanted to give expats in Tokyo an alternative to over-crowded, anonymous gyms where you would hit the workout floor on your own. We are here for our clients every day and work together with them towards their goals. Our approach focuses on one-on-one and a 100% tailored personal training programs to suit any lifestyle,” explains Schmid. “Our clients come to us with various goals and we strive to provide them with the highest level of support needed to make these goals a reality.” The club is conveniently located in Moto-Azabu; just three minutes walk from Roppongi Hills. The space appears functional and modern, boasting state-of-the-art equipment. Clients are busy improving their profile in the spacious class studio, training zone and combat area with the help of personal trainers overseeing their progress. The organic shake and snack bar complete the concept. The specialized training programs on offer include fat loss and toning, body conditioning, postural correction, sport specific training and pre- and postnatal plans which can be complemented with classes. Fit 360, core & cardio, Pilates, boxing, kickboxing and outdoor bootcamp as well as kids classes such as Karate and Kidfit 360 are available. All classes are also available as personal and partner classes besides the regular group sessions. For those who are injured or suffering from chronic pains, you are sure to be safe in the hands of the Club 360 team. “We seek to find and correct the root cause of a problem to provide long-term pain relief and preservation of the lifestyle you enjoy. We combine the latest physiotherapy, medical and sports science evidence with years of practical experience to provide our clients with a world-class level of care,” adds Gilbert, who is heading the rehabilitation team. Club 360 liaises with a large network of doctors, surgeons, podiatrists, sports coaches and other specialists as well as Club 360’s highly trained in-house fitness staff to offer you the most comprehensive alternative for your ailment and a smooth progression from rehabilitation to full function. “Aside from treating various injuries, Club 360’s pregnancy programs are also very popular. We have helped many expat mums to meet the challenges of pregnancy,” shares Schmid. All trainers and therapists are qualified and highly experienced in prenatal and postpartum training and massage. “We offer flexible payment plans to suit a diverse array of lifestyles. We look forward to welcoming your readers for a consultation or a tour of Club 360,” says Schmid before he is off again to assist two women in the training area with their session. Managing director Nathan Schmid (right) has claimed over a dozen athletics medals in his running career and represented Australia at international level. Club manager and physiotherapist Sam Gilbert (left) has been treating the expatriate population in Tokyo since 2005. He also represented Australia at five world championships in full contact karate.

Living Japan Vol. 8

Club 360 Cma3 Building, B1, 3-1-35 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel. 03-6434-9667 www.club360.jp

Elana Jade

AN ORGANIC BEAUTY OASIS IN AZABU Elana Jade is an exclusive organic beauty salon in the heart of Tokyo where boutique luxury and personalized service are unsurpassed. Situated on the third floor of the Latorie Memorial Building in the fashionable and central Azabu-Juban area, Elana Jade’s treatments are overseen by highly-qualified, English speaking staff and all products used are organic. Spacious, enclosed treatment rooms provide a private and relaxing retreat where guests come to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It can be your oasis in the heart of Tokyo! When asked why organic, salon owner Elana Gilbert responds, “since our skin absorbs anything we apply to it, chemicals in non-organic products can get into the bloodstream, which in some cases may result in disease and can actually cause premature ageing.” Strictly adhering to this “organic philosophy”, the Elana Jade Beauty Salon, specializes in facials, waxing and massage. “Even our wax is organic and contains ingredients that have healing properties to leave your skin smoother, younger and moisturized,” says Gilbert. Elana Jade have fast become known as the “Brazilian waxing specialists” and this is the most frequently requested treatment at the salon. Although waxing is the most popular treatment, the Elana Jade salon is also famous for their powerful organic facials. “The anti-age and peeling facial course produces amazing results,” says Gilbert. “It’s highly effective on blemishes, visible pores and fine lines, and the great news is the down-time is minimal - just one to four hours.” In fact, celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson have praised the IIcsi products used in Elana Jades peeling facial. Since introducing the IIsci peeling course (one facial every week for four weeks), the boutique salon has had a large influx of expatriates searching for the elixir of youth. Stepping into the Elana Jade Organic Beauty Salon for the first time is like taking a breath of fresh air - with the aroma of organic oils and herbs. The Australian-born owner’s roots are clearly shown in the salons decor, which is eloquently decorated with wood, stone and native Japanese and Australian fauna creating an oasis-like space in the heart of Tokyo. Women aren’t the only ones who can enjoy some much needed pampering and skincare at Elana Jade. “Men continue to be the fastest growing spa clientele since five years,” says Gilbert, “many gentlemen have come to realize how a clean, clear and well groomed face can create a powerful first impression. We have worked very hard to create a space that is appealing to both men and women.” Elana welcomes all who desire to achieve healthy and beautiful skin to the Elana Jade Organic Beauty Salon. See more at www.elanajade.com

Elana Jade Organic Beauty Salon Latorie Memorial Building 3F 1-5-9 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku, Tokyo 03-6438-9895 www.elanajade.com

FITNESS CLUBS & YOGA CLASSES FITNESS CLUBS CHIYODA-KU Konami Sports Club Grancise Otemachi 25-27F Otemachi Nomura Bldg. 2-1-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3516-2771 URL: http://information. konamisportsclub.jp/004444.html Work Out World Akasaka 2F Prudential Tower 2-13-10 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5510-4001 URL: http://www.nas-club.co.jp/akasaka/

CHUO-KU Tokyu Sports Oasis Seiroka Garden B2F Seiroka Tower 8 Akashicho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3545-0109 URL: http://www.sportsoasis.co.jp/sh65/

MEGURO-KU Central Fitness Club Jiyugaoka 1-14-17 Nakane, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5729-0550 URL: http://www.central.co.jp/club/ jiyugaoka/ The Club at Yebisu Garden Yebisu Garden Place 1-13-2 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5424-1212 URL: http://www.tcy.co.jp Konami Sports Club Meguro Aobadai 2F Meguro-Aobadai Bldg. 2-19-10 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5773-1926 URL: http://information. konamisportsclub.jp/004446.html Liberty Hill Club 3-26-6 Yakumo, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5731-5731 URL: http://www.libertyhill.co.jp

MINATO-KU Ark Hills Spa Ark Towers West 1-3-40 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5573-2830 URL: http://www.hillsspa.com/english/ Central Fitness Club Minami-Aoyama B1-B2F 6-1-3 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5468-1191 URL: http://www.central.co.jp/club/ minamiaoyama/ Club 360 Cma3 Building, B1. 3-1-35 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel. 03-6434-9667 www.club360.jp Esforta Akasaka B1F Akasaka DS Bldg. 8-5-26 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Living Japan Vol. 8

Tel: 0120-870-496 URL: http://www.esforta.co.jp/club/ akasaka/

Tel: 03-3708-9221 URL: http://information. konamisportsclub.jp/004461.html

Esforta Fitness Club Roppongi 2F Izumi Garden Terrace 1-6-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 0120-870-497 URL: http://www.esforta.co.jp/club/ roppongi/

Renaissance Sangenjaya 2-2-16 Sangenjaya, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5481-8500 URL: http://www.s-re.jp

Green Hills Spa 42F Atago Green Hills Forest Tower 2-3-1 Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6402-1900 URL: http://www.hillsspa.com/ Motoazabu Hills Spa Forest Terrace East 1-3-2 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3769-6201 URL: http://www.hillsspa.com/ The Premier Club 3F Shiroyama Trust Tower 4-3-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5472-0055 URL: https://www.central.co.jp/club/ premier/ Riviera Sports Club Minami Aoyama B1F Riviera Minami Aoyama Bldg. 3-3-3 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5474-8000 URL: http://www.riviera-s.jp Roppongi Hills Spa 4F Residence C 6-12-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku,Tokyo Tel: 03-6406-6550 URL: http://www.hillsspa.com/ Spa Shirokane 1-1-18 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3444-5811 URL: http://www.spa-shirokane.com Tipness Roppongi B1F Piramide Bldg. 6-6-9 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5474-3531 URL: http://tip.tipness.co.jp/shop_info/ SHP008/ Tokyu Sports Oasis Aoyama B2F Tepia Bldg. 2-8-44 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5770-6109 URL: http://www.sportsoasis.co.jp/sh58/ TOTAL Workout B2F Roppongi Hills Metro Hat / Hollywood Plaza 6-4-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5414-1102 URL: http://www.totalworkout.jp/ english/

SETAGAYA-KU Central Fitness Club Shimokitazawa 1-46-5 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5738-5420 URL: http://www.central.co.jp/club/ shimokitazawa/ Central Sports 3F Heisei Bldg. 2-41-11 Yoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3700-6116 URL: http://www.central.co.jp Konami Sports Club Futago-Tamagawa 2-27-10 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo

The Sports Connection 4-15-30 Seta, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3707-8211 URL: http://www.sportsconnection.co.jp

Jexer Sports 7F Atre Oimachi 1-2-1 Oimachi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3772-5014 URL: http://www.jexer.jp/fitness/oi/ Lafore Tokyo Fitness Salon Gotenba Trust Tower 4-7-35 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5488-3900 URL: http://www.fitness.toredie.com

Tipness Shimokitazawa 2-5-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3487-3531 URL: http://tip.tipness.co.jp/shop_info/ SHP002/

Tipness Gotanda 2-3-3 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3441-3531 URL: http://tip.tipness.co.jp/shop_info/ SHP005/

SHIBUYA-KU

SHINJUKU-KU

Body by Vital Ola 3-5F BC SALON 1-14-11, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6418-0064 URL: http://www.bodybyvital.jp/ola/

Esforta Fitness Club Ichigaya 1F Sumitomo Ichigaya Bldg. 1-1 Ichigaya-Honmuracho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3269-8799 URL: http://www.esforta.co.jp/english/ corporate/

Esforta Fitness Club Shibuya B1F Shibuya Infos Tower 20-1 Sakuragaokacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3780-5551 URL: http://www.esforta.co.jp/english/ corporate/ Goldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gym 9-11F Cocoti 1-23-16 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5464-7373 URL: http://www.goldsgym.jp Ichigeki Fitness Club 2-16-9 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5766-5773 URL: http://www.ichigeki-fitness.com

Jexer Fitness Club Yotsuya Sotobori Park, 1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3355-2415 URL: http://www.jexer.jp/fitness/ yotsuya/ Tipness Higashi Shinjuku B1F Shinjuku East Side Square 6-27-30 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5291-9830 URL: http://tip.tipness.co.jp/shop_info/ SHP082/

YOGA CLASSES

Konami Sports Club Aoyama 4-5F Aoyama Oval Bldg. 5-52-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5766-0852 URL: http://information. konamisportsclub.jp/004094.html

Be Yoga 4F ORE Hiroo 5-10-26 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6277-0177 URL: http://www.beyogajapan.com/en/

Konami Sports Club Shibuya 18-11 Shinsencho Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5489-3621 URL: http://information. konamisportsclub.jp/007871.html

Sun & Moon Yoga 201 Gotanda Yamakatsu Bldg. 3-16-44 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawaku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3280-6383 URL: http://sunandmoon.jp/top/

Megalos Ebisu 2-4-4 Ebisu-Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5773-5100 URL: http://www.megalos.co.jp/ebisu/ R-Body Project 2F ASAX Hiroo Bldg. 1-3-14 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5447-1122 URL: www.r-body.com Tipness Shibuya 16-4 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3770-3531 URL: http://tip.x-tokyo.jp/shibuya/

SHINAGAWA-KU Central Fitness Club Tennouzu 24-26F Sofia Tower 2-2-8 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawaku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5462-2355 URL: http://www.central.co.jp/club/ tennozu/

Yogajaya 2F 1-25-11 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5784-3622 URL: http://www.yogajaya.com/en/ Yoga Room Purusha Sanward Ebisu 600 3-24-9 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 080-3121-7883 URL: http://home.a07.itscom.net/yoga/

Preschool available! (2-5 yrs)

Growing young minds around the world.

Mommy and Me & Drop-Off classes available!

At Gymboree, kids newborn to 5 years can move, explore, and stretch their bodies and minds. From tummy time and parachute games to storytelling, song and dance, discover the joy of play and learning along with your child.

Try a FREE class today!

www.gymboree.jp

Motoazabu, Jiyugaoka, & LalaPort Yokohama

International Education Special

SPOILT FOR CHOICE

Selecting the Right International School for Your Children

By Mareike Dornhege

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expressions and knowledge,“ was Albert Einstein’s description of an ideal education. The decision which school to send your children to might be one of the biggest influences on their development and the path they will choose in the future. Such an important decision can be overwhelming, especially given the number of outstanding international schools in Japan’s capital. To help you organize your thoughts, we spoke to the Japanese Council of International Schools (JCIS) and the heads of some of Tokyo’s leading international schools. an international school in Japan is that they can be quite innovative as they are free from direct governmental intervention and the accreditation process gives them a lot of flexibility as well. International schools in many other countries are not so privileged.“

LIVINGJAPAN (LJ): How is international education different from sending your children to school in their home country? John Searle, president of the Japanese Council of International Schools (JCIS) and head of Osaka International School: “The main difference is perspective. While a host country school might have a strong focus on their nation’s history, art and literature, international education is much broader and will educate your children as global citizens.“ Pete Juds, head of The Montessori School Tokyo (MST): “The exposure to a variety of nationalities, religions, cultural norms and lifestyles is something not usually encountered in home country schools. Further, you can count on the quality of teaching — international schools in Japan have a large pool of experienced and skilled teachers to choose from.“

Yvonne Hayes, ISSH

“There should be no stereotypes — girls are scientists, musicians, poets, athletes.“

Brian Christian, principal of the British School in Toyko (BST): “One of the most important differences is the transience of the school population. A number of children, and yours may be one of them, will only be at the school for a limited period of time before their parents’ jobs take them elsewhere. It is very important to focus on integration and on preparing children to move on to their next destination.“ Terry Christian, headmaster of Nishimachi International School (NIS): “In general, international schools will be better resourced, can offer smaller class sizes and you will see many children from privileged backgrounds. Moreover they are innovative in their approaches to teaching which is sparked by the variety of nationalities present in both the student and teacher body.“

LJ: What stands out about international education in Japan? Steven Parr, head of school, New International School (New IS): “One particular advantage for

Living Japan Vol. 8

John Searle, JCIS: “The schools organized under the JCIS umbrella offer education to the highest standards. International schools in Japan are very diverse and with the variety on offer you have a good chance to find a school that matches your child’s character and talents.“ Terry Christian, NIS: “The biggest difference in Japan is that you are in Japan. Your host country’s culture will permeate the school you send your children to. Some of their classmates will be Japanese, you will meet Japanese parents in the school community and there are opportunities to learn more about the local language and culture. At Nishimachi, we embrace this opportunity. We are one of the few international schools worldwide with a strong emphasis on the host culture and language.“

LJ: What should parents consider when selecting an international school for their children?

Terry Christian, NIS

“Your host country’s culture will permeate the school you send your children to. At Nishimachi, we embrace this opportunity.“

John Searle, JCIS: “The JCIS criteria are a good measurement. JCIS schools must be accredited, staffed with teachers holding professional educations qualifications, demonstrate sound finances and facilities, and equipment must be of certain standards. Our website offers a list of fully accredited schools in Japan which is a good starting point to select schools to visit. I believe all our member schools are good choices — there isn’t one best school for everyone, choose the school that suits your child.“ Pete Juds, MST: “It is vital for parents to know what is important for them; what outcomes they

are looking for; in what kind environment they wish their children to be educated.“ Brian Christian, BST: “I know that it’s not always possible, but a school visit is essential in my opinion. If you are on a school tour, take the time to look carefully at students’ work and to talk to the students themselves. Good schools are built around good teachers. Talk to them if you can. Ask about qualifications, length of time in the school, how they keep up with the latest developments in education. It pays to take the time to talk to other parents about their experiences. Often a school can put you in touch with current or past parents from your home country.“ Yvonne Hayes, headmistress of International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH): “As the head of a girls’ school, it is important for me that there should be no stereotypes — girls are scientists, musicians, poets, athletes. ISSH is a place where the students can develop resilience and confidence to become women who can use their resources, imagination and creativity.“

LJ: Please tell us why parents and children chose your schools. Pete Juds, MST: “Children develop in different areas at different paces and this development is not linear. A Montessori classroom embraces this and stimulates collaborative learning while recognizing individual strengths and challenges. While every educational pedagogy wants to encourage students to be problem solvers and collaborative learners, most conventional education still relies on teacher-driven activities and comparative grading. MST students are collaborating and solving problems all day, every day in a very natural way. They are learning how to learn.“

John Searle, JCIS

“I believe all our member schools are good choices — there isn’t one best school for everyone, choose the school that suits your child.“ students. ASIJ will also be one of the first schools to participate in the new Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone project.“ Royce Jacob, head of school, Aoba International School (A-JIS): “During a visit to our school it only takes parents a few moments to see that the students at A-JIS love their school. They are excited and happy to be at school, and this is a direct reflection of our caring teachers.“

Royce Jacob, A-JIS

“We are excited to have recently adopted the International Baccalaureate, a world class curriculum that develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better world through intercultural understanding and respect.”

LJ: Please tell us what achievements you are proud of at your schools? Royce Jacob, A-JIS: “We are excited to have recently adopted the International Baccalaureate, a world class curriculum that develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.“ Terry Christian, NIS: “We were the first international school in Tokyo to offer Japanese language education every day. Our students learn two languages at a very high level.“

Yvonne Hayes, ISSH: “Girls and boys mature at different rates. We therefore offer an education that is best suited to the academic and social needs of girls and their development. Parents choose our school because of our welcoming and nurturing community, excellence in academics, Sacred Heart values, our convenient location in Hiroo and outstanding facilities.“

Steven Parr, New IS: “Our school is the fulfillment of a dream born of the necessity to found a school I knew should exist. It offers dual language tuition in Japanese and English, and is multi-age and Vygotskian in its approach to education and language acquisition. As far as I know, there is no other school like it. All of the children even learn to play the violin by the Suzuki method.“

Ed Ladd, head of school, The American School in Japan (ASIJ): “ASIJ is probably one of the most forward-thinking schools in Japan. Whether it is expanding our Design Technology offerings, embedding Design Thinking in our curriculum or offering advanced level high school courses through our membership of Global Online Academy, we are constantly looking for ways to enhance and develop learning opportunities for

Brian Christian, BST: “The introduction of A levels. This means that BST can now cater for students from three to 18 in a seamless fashion.“ Ed Ladd, ASIJ: “While our reputation and excellent college placement record are a testament to the well-rounded education that students receive, the smiling faces we see on campus everyday are the real evidence of our success.“

Ed Ladd, ASIJ

“While our reputation and excellent college placement record are a testament to the well-rounded education that students receive, the smiling faces we see on campus everyday are the real evidence of our success.“

International Education Special

An Insight into A Level Education in Japan By Brian Christian, Principal of the British School in Tokyo (BST)

The British School in Tokyo has enjoyed an enviable reputation for the provision of high quality education since first opening its doors in Shibuya 25 years ago. An Executive Member of the Council of British International Schools and one of only 48 schools worldwide to have been independently inspected and accredited under the new BSO (British Schools Overseas) standards, BST has long recognized the importance of recruiting, developing and retaining outstanding teachers. In recognition of this, at the 2013 BCCJ British Business Awards Evening the school became the first recipient of the Global Talent award, sponsored by the British Council - a very timely endorsement of the high standards we set for ourselves as we prepare to celebrate our 25th Anniversary. Following the achievements of our first A level students in 2012 and their success in winning places at some of the top universities in the UK, the Class of 2013 were keen to emulate their predecessors. Just the second cohort of 18 year-olds to graduate, this year’s group certainly set the bar high for those who will follow them. Remarkably, more than 40% of all entries were graded A*/A, and well over 60% were awarded a B grade or better. Given that no fewer than 10 A*/ A grades were attained in Maths and Further Maths, it is perhaps not surprising that seven students are now studying at the London School of Economics, University College London and Imperial College; other courses followed by BST’s latest alumni include Architecture at Glasgow, English Literature at Reading and Chemical Engineering at Manchester. Further highlights were the achievement of six A*/A grades in the Extended Project and three Distinctions awarded in the AQA (Assessments and Qualifications Alliance) Baccalaureate, clearly illustrating that BST education is both balanced and tailored to accommodate the particular interests of individual students.

BST was awarded the “British Business Award for Global Talent” by the British Chamber of Commerce Japan

The relatively recent introduction of A levels at BST has led to a dramatic increase in enquiries from ambitious students of all nationalities who are keen to win places at prestigious universities overseas. But Britain is not the only destination of choice. Young people today recognize that A levels offer an academic passport that can take them almost anywhere. Most universities worldwide are very familiar with Britain’s public examination system and the specialist nature of British Sixth Form courses means that students with better grades can expect to earn significant credit — sometimes up to a whole year’s worth of study. At Harvard, for example, you will need to have at least three A/ B grades to matriculate but three A grades will merit a full year’s academic credit and Princeton clearly states on its website that A/B grades will earn Advance Placement credit. As an international school of 780 students aged three to 18 BST is, of course, much more than an A Level school. All examinations are important, and many parents are impressed by the rigor and structured progression of our particular brand of British education. And there is so much more to that education than simply learning how to pass exams. Sport, music and drama are woven into the fabric of school life, and both community service and adventurous activity are real strengths. From their early years in our Nursery and Reception classes, children are given countless opportunities to develop the independence and resilience that will enable them to take the next step in their education — wherever it might take them, with confidence — and a smile.

The BST graduating class of 2013 is looking to a bright future

Living Japan Vol. 8

ASIJ:learning

ADVERTORIAL

the future of

Teaching and Technology at The American School in Japan

How would you design a robot that can pick up and throw BuckyBalls and then hold a larger ball while hanging from a bar? If you could create a new app for your iPad, what would it do? What kind of fairground ride would you design and how would you build a prototype from Lego WeDo? These are just a few of the questions being tackled by students at The American School in Japan (ASIJ). ASIJ prepares all students to meet the challenges of a dynamic global society in which they collaborate, communicate, create and innovate through ubiquitous access to people, information and ideas. Our aspiration is to make technology an integrated experience for students, rather than a periodic event, by bringing technology into the core of the learning process and the learning space. A key directive that originated from ASIJ’s strategic planning process was that the school focus on developing an emphasis on design and the design process in the curriculum. Students are empowered through our 1:1 MacBook program (grades 5–12) and the use of iPads in the lower

grades to work together, research, share and consume information, and create media-rich products. From experimenting and designing to using their devices to document their thoughts and ideas, they work on a wide range of engaging projects that require higher-level thinking, critical decision-making and problem solving. “As well as the three ‘Rs,’ we now teach the three ‘Cs’—communication, collaboration, and creativity,” says Head of School Ed Ladd. “It is not only the amount of information available to students, but it is the constant accessibility to this information that is changing the face of education. Teachers are no longer the font of information; instead, the teacher is a coach or facilitator who helps students analyze information, synthesize it, and use it to solve problems,” he adds. “I’m very excited by the changes we’ve already made and the innovative ways students and teachers are exploring and creating with new technology. There has never been a more exciting time to be an educator—or a student.”

Nursery through grade 12. Accredited by WASC. For complete admissions information please visit: http://community.asij.ac.jp or call 0422-34-5300 ext. 720

“It’s hard to define 21st-century learning without talking about technology, and the robotics program at ASIJ is a prime example of that” says Head of School, Ed Ladd. Since hosting and winning the VEX Robotics Competition in 2009, ASIJ’s robotics program has continued to enthuse the community. Our teams qualified for the VEX World Championship for the fourth year running in 2013.

This year we launched a new semester-long Creative Design course in the middle school. All sixth-grade students take this introduction to the design process and use a variety of technologies including robotics, programming, CAD and 3D printing as well as hands-on building materials and techniques. Students have the opportunity to use these tools to design creative solutions to selfidentified problems, a process that exposes them to the fundamental stages of the design cycle.

International Education Special

ASIJ is a dynamic school with a rigorous academic program that prepares students well for the future as Alumni report. Graduates matriculate to leading universities in North America, Japan, the United Kingdom and Australia. Facilities at our 14-acre main campus support outstanding performing arts opportunities and an extensive athletics program. Japanese is offered at a variety of levels from beginner to native track and is a daily class in grades 1 to 5. Design Thinking and embedded technology play an important role in the curriculum and learning is supported by a 1:1 program and access to iPads.

The British School in Tokyo (BST) provides quality education in central Tokyo for international pupils aged three to 18. BST is unique in Japan as it follows the English national curriculum, preparing pupils for entry to universities worldwide. An independent inspection confirmed BST as “excellent” — the highest mark possible. Described as a dynamic, creative environment, the inspectors highlighted that the BST staff show true commitment to the welfare, health and safety of pupils. With a full range of extracurricular activities and an outstanding sports program, our pupils are wellrounded individuals, fully equipped for the challenges of the future.

The American School in Japan 1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0031 0422-3453-00 Mary Margaret Mallat, Director of Admissions info@asij.ac.jp www.asij.ac.jp

British School in Tokyo 1-21-18 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002 03-6418-5351 Shoko Unabara, Admissions admissions@bst.ac.jp www.bst.ac.jp

The Montessori School of Tokyo enrolls 160 students aged two to 14 from 35 countries around the world. The only internationally accredited Montessori school in Japan, it is located in the midst of Tokyo’s international community. Our approach assumes that children are born intelligent, curious and creative and are ripe to develop a sense of wonder and imagination. We encourage students to think deeply, to think for themselves and to think about others. Our core values of Confidence, Respect and Compassion represent the characteristics we strive to instill and uphold in our administration, faculty and student body.

Nishimachi International School is a private, non-sectarian, coeducational K–9 day school founded in 1949 to educate students from around the world and Japan. Nishimachi’s educational philosophy is rooted in a spirit of internationalism and humanism that allows children to learn in a supportive, stimulating, and caring environment. The tradition has been to provide children with an education in English and one period of daily Japanese that seeks to develop international perspective and understanding. The school’s mission is to educate students to be communicators, thinkers, and motivated lifelong learners who thoughtfully contribute to a diverse and changing world.

The Montessori School of Tokyo (MST) 3-5-13 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku Tokyo 106-0047 03-5449-7067 Pete Juds admit@montessorijapan.com www.montessorijapan.com

Living Japan Vol. 8

Nishimachi International School 2-14-7 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0046 03-3451-5520 Kiki Jiang-Yamaguchi admissions@nishimachi.ac.jp www.nishimachi.ac.jp

Aoba-Japan International School (A-JIS) is a fully accredited K-12 International School in Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nerima Ward. It is a place where Japanese and foreign students collaborate and learn in a supportive environment. Bilingualism, academics and international awareness are core goals. Our passionate and dedicated faculty transcend their educational responsibilities and become role models and sources of lifelong inspiration along our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; paths to global citizenry. Core to our educational objectives are critical-thinking, open-mindedness, adaptability, cross-cultural awareness, social consciousness, innovation, communicative agility, courage and leadership. Our students graduate well-rounded with social, academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

Aoba-Japan INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (Hikarigaoka Campus) 7-5-1 Hikarigaoka, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 179-0072 (Meguro Campus) 2-11-5 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0042 (Hikarigaoka Campus) 03-6904-3102 (Meguro Campus) 03-5428-4488 (Hikarigaoka Campus) hikarigaoka@aobajapan.jp (Meguro Campus) meguro@aobajapan.jp http://www.aobajapan.jp/

A Truly International Learning Community Located just over 30 minutes from central Tokyo, Yokohama International School is an independent, not-for-profit school for children ages 3-18. Internationalism is at the heart of our school culture, with nearly 50 countries represented among our students and faculty. Centering on the International Baccalaureate, our academic programs foster the comunications skills, critical thinking and global perspectives young people will need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. We take special pride in our warm and welcoming school community and invite you to come experience YIS first-hand.

Yokohama International School

www.yis.ac.jp | 045-622-0084 | admissions@yis.ac.jp

2014_LivingJapan_04.indd 1

30/01/2014 12:55

International Education Special Japan Council of International Schools

he first school in Japan to include the word “international” in its name was founded in 1924. However, there has been a long history of international education in Japan, with schools offering an education in English and serving members of the expatriate community in Japan since 1872, and four current JCIS member schools can trace their origins to before the First World War. Many more were founded in the 1950s and 1960s, and it was in October 1965 when representatives of such schools met formally for the first time to discuss mutual matters of administration and curriculum. The value of such meetings was immediately apparent, and schools started meeting on a regular basis. On January 12, 1972, a number of schools met and founded the Japan Council of Overseas Schools (JCOS). It was originally decided that membership would be based on schools being in EARCOS, the East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools, and that school heads would meet regularly to exchange information and discuss matters of mutual interest. In 1982 a constitution was adopted that opened membership to schools offering an English-based curriculum, irrespective of membership in EARCOS. In 1987, the name of the organisation was changed to the Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS), following the lead of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS). Schools applying for membership to JCIS must meet a number of important criteria including authority, stability, continuity, professionalism, and an explicit commitment to internationalism. Underpinning this is that the education must be offered in English. Beyond that, however, there are no requirements concerning curriculum, ethos or ownership; there is a variety of curricula and backgrounds. Some schools offer programmes of the International Baccalaureate. Others offer an education rooted to a greater or lesser degree in a national curriculum. Some schools offer a full “kindergarten to grade 12” education while

others specialise in certain age groups. Some are faithbased while others are strictly secular. The smallest JCIS member school has fewer than 100 students and the largest has more than 1,500. Collectively, our schools currently enrol just short of 10,000 students from 109 countries. About half of the member schools are located in Tokyo or Yokohama. The others are spread throughout the country from Fukuoka in the west to Sapporo in the north. The heads of member schools meet twice a year – usually in September and April. Meetings are held at member schools: once a year in the Kanto region and once elsewhere in Japan. A President (Chair), Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer are elected by, and from among, the heads of member schools. JCIS schools network on collective issues such as changes in employment legislation, actions concerning pandemics and disasters, and advice about service providers. JCIS also encourages professional development among member schools and faculty. Opportunities are taken to share the cost of visiting speakers or performers with neighbouring schools, to coordinate professional development initiatives, to bring together specialist staff, and to support schools introducing new educational programmes. JCIS schools are being asked for their input into the developments within Japanese education. JCIS exists to create a forum for the continued development and improvement of international education in Japan and the enhancement of the school experience for all families seeking an international education. John Searle President, Japan Council of International Schools www.jcis.jp Head of School, Osaka International School www.senri.ed.jp

Japan Council of International Schools Links to the member schools may be found at www.jcis.jp

American School in Japan

International School of the Sacred Heart

Seisen International School

Aoba-Japan International School

Kyoto International School

St. Mary’s International School

British School in Tokyo

Marist Brothers International School

Saint Maur International School

The Canadian Academy

Montessori School of Tokyo

St. Michael’s International School

Canadian International School

Nagoya International School

Tohoku International School

Christian Academy in Japan

New International School

Tokyo International School

Fukuoka International School

Nishimachi International School

Tsukuba International School

Hiroshima International School

Osaka International School

Yokohama International School

Hokkaido International School

Osaka YMCA International School

Living Japan Vol. 8

Continuing Education Japanese Language School

‘We’, located three minutes walk from Shibuya station, is now entering its 17th year of establishment. Our passionate teachers and staff work with utmost attention to the students in order to tailor our programs to meet their needs and help them achieve their dreams and goals. The unchanging philosophy of student-centered and dynamic teaching is at the heart of our school. The students are always our top priority.

Courses: - Practical Daily Conversation - Test Preparation - Business Japanese - Intensive Courses

“this Japanese Language School” offers courses based on everyday activities so the learners can easily apply the contents to their daily life. Some classes go to a supermarket together, while other invite Japanese people to exchange opinions in vibrant, educational debates. For those who would like to experience the school’s atmosphere for trial, different events and campaigns are offered every month. Check our website for more details or give us a call!

We pride ourselves on qualified teachers, supportive study counselors, great location and atmosphere and available home and office lessons. Let us help you to “change and grow” with custom tailored classes. We Japanese Language School 4th Floor, Higashi Nihon Bldg., 1-22-8 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 03-5489-6480 info@we-japan.com www.we-japan.com

this Japanese Language School #603 Park Villa Kichijoji 1-30-1 Kichijoji-Minami-cho Musashino-shi, Tokyo 0422-29-8365 info@thisjls.com www.thisjls.com

REFERENCE GUIDE

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS & PRESCHOOLS

Pre-kindergarten Ages: 2 to 6 years, kindergarten - K1-K4 2-11-5 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5428-4488 URL: http://www.aobajapan.jp Email: admissions@aobajapan.jp

CHIYODA-KU

Gregg International School Ages: 18 months to 11 years 1-14-6 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3725-8000 - Fax: 03-5701-2554 Email: balloon@gis-j.com URL: www.gis-j.com Admissions: Reiko Matsuzawa Annual Schedule: August to June

Au Pays des Sakuras Ages: 2 to 6 years Koyo Biru 2F 1-6-3 Iidabashi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 090-8344-0270 URL: www.aupaysdessakuras.com Admissions: Celine Guillery Accreditations: French kindergarten

EDOGAWA-KU Global Indian International School Japan Kindergarten to grade 12 3-20-6, Minami-Shinozakicho, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5636-9151 Fax: 03-5636-9158 Email: admissions.tokyo@globalindianschool.org URL: http://www.globalindianschool.org Annual Schedule: July to March Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed

ITABASHI-KU New Hope International Preschool Ages: 3 to 5 years 5-1-2 Narimasu, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5383-0421 - Fax: 03-6915-6767 URL: www.newhopeclc.jp Admissions: Jeremy Seminoff

KITA-KU Lycee Franco-Japonais (Fujimi) Kindergarten to grade 5 5-57-37 Takinogawa, Kita-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6823-6580 Email: lycee@lfjt.or.jp URL: www.lfjtokyo.org Accreditations: French curriculum

KOTO-KU K. International School Tokyo Pre-Kindergarten to grade 12 1-5-15 Shirakawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3642-9993 Fax: 03-3642-9994 Email: info@kist.ed.jp URL: www.kist.ed.jp Admissions: Craig Larsen Annual Schedule: August/September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: IB World School International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP, DP) Tokyo YMCA International School Kindergarten to grade 6 2-2-20 Toyo, Koto-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3615-5632 - Fax: 03-5635-1023 Email: tyis@tokyo.ymca.or.jp URL: http://tokyo.ymca.or.jp/tyis/ Admissions: Marsha Nishikawa Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

MEGURO-KU Aoba-Japan International School (Meguro Campus)

Living Japan Vol. 8

Montessori Friends International School Ages: 18 months to 6 years 3-8-8 Midorigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3726-9386 - Fax: 03-3726-9386 Email: info@montessorifriends.com URL: www.montessorifriends.com Admissions: Jeanne Shimazaki

MINATO-KU Ai International Preschool Ages: 18 months to 6 years 3F, 5-4-1 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3769-3372 - Fax: 03-3456-0488 Email: info@aiinternationalschool.com URL: www.aiinternationalschool.com/ Admissions: Eri Ohashi ABC International School (Hiroo Campus) Ages: 15 months to 5 years Katsu Court #101 2-7-25 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5793-1359 - Fax: 03-5793-1359 Email: ABCintl@gol.com URL: www.abcinternationalschool.com Admissions: Elizabeth Minahan Azabu International School Ages: 15 months to 5 years City Azabu Room 302 3-10-12 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3451-8477 - Fax: 03-3451-8476 Email: info@azabuis.com URL: www.azabuis.com/ Admissions: Keith Jacobsen Ayla International School Ages: 18 months to 6 years 102 Shirokanedai Heights 5-13-28 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku,Tokyo Tel: 03-3448-2585 - Fax: 03-3448-2585 Email: aylaistokyo@yahoo.com URL: http://aylais.com/ Admissions: Puteri Zailan The American School in Japan Early Learning Center Nursery to Kindergarten 6-16-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5771-4344 - Fax: 03-5771-4341 Email: jbeneventi@asij.ac.jp URL: http://community.asij.ac.jp Admissions: Judy Beneventi Chateau des Bambini Montessori School Ages: 1 to 6 years 2F, 2-8-18 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6400-3328 - Fax: 03-6400-3329 Email: eriko@montessori-cbms.com URL: http://www.montessori-cbms.com/en/

International Secondary School Ages: 6 to 13 years 4-17-26 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5730-1331 - Fax: 03-5730-1332 Email: iss@isstokyo.com URL: www.isstokyo.com Admissions: Shawn Hutchinson Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed J’s International School Ages: 1.5 to 6 years 2-12-14 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3452-2078 - Fax: 03-3452-2092 Email: office@js-international-school.com URL: www.js-international-school.com Admissions: Mrs. Yang K Space Ages: 16 months to 5 years 5-13-39 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5421-4186 Email: Juliet@kspace.to URL: www.kspace.to Admissions: Juliet Rogove Mitsui Gardens International Preschool Ages: 18 months to 5 years 2-1-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3224-6796 - Fax: 03-3224-6796 Email: ewapreschooldirector@gmail.com URL: http://mitsuigardenspreschool.com Admissions: Pam Wasilewski The Montessori School of Tokyo Ages: 2 to 12 years 3-5-13 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5449-7067 - Fax: 03-5449-0087 Email: admit@montessorijapan.com URL: www.montessorijapan.com Admissions: Ms. Ushiki Nishimachi International School Kindergarten to grade 9 2-14-7 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-3451-5520 Email: admissions@nishimachi.ac.jp URL: www.nishimachi.ac.jp Accreditations: WASC (Western Association of Schools Committee), CIS (Council of International Schools), recognized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Ohana International School Ages: 2 to 11 years 2-3F, Park 1 2-17-8 Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-3451-0087 URL:www.school-in-tokyo.com/ Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed PAL International School Ages: 6 months to 6 years 3-8-18 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5770-8166 Fax: 03-5770-8167 Email: info@pal-school.com URL: www.pal-school.com Admissions: Ayako Kim Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed RLC Playgroup / Preschool Ages: 18 months to 4.5 years Roppongi Lutheran Church 3F 6-16- 44 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 080-2393-7788

Email: info@rlcpreschool.com URL: www.rlcpreschool.com Admissions: Aliy Lickfold Summerhill International School Ages: 15 months to 5.5 years 2-13-8 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3453-0811 Fax: 03-3453-0820 Email: info@summerhill.jp URL: www.summerhill.jp Admissions: Monique Keller St. Alban’s Nursery Ages: 3 to 5 years 3-6-25 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3431-8534 - Fax: 03-5472-4766 Email: stalbans@stalbans.jp URL: www.saintalbans.jp Admissions: Gilma Yamamoto Tokyo International School (TIS) Pre-kindergarten to grade 8 2-13-6 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5484-1160 Fax: 03-5484-1139 Email:admissions@tokyois.com URL: www.tokyois.com Admissions: Aya Suzuki & Tania Hayes Annual Schedule: Late August to mid June (summer school until beginning of July) Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: CIS, NEASC Authorization: IB (PYP, MYP) Willowbrook International School Ages: 15 months to 5 years 2-14-28, Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3449-9030 - Fax: 03-3449-9064 Email: wistokyo@gol.com URL: www.willowbrookschool.com Admissions: Hiromi Ishikawa

SETAGAYA-KU American World International Ages: 2.5 to 6 years 4-30-5, Kaminoge, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 408-656-7959 Email: admin@americanworld.jp URL: www.americanworld.jp Admissions: Bobbie Buntin British School in Tokyo Showa Ages: 4 to 13 years 1-7-57 Taishido, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3411-4211 - Fax: 03-3411-4212 Email: comms@bst.ac.jp URL: www.bst.ac.jp Admissions: Lowly Norgate Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Grace International Learning Center Ages: 18 months to 6 years 2-13-11 Seta, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-5716-3100 Email: admin@GILC@gmail.com URL: www.grace-learning.com Admissions: Cheryl Ann Cabusora Komazawa Park International School Ages: 18 months to 6 years 2-12-16 Fukazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5707-0979 - Fax: 03-5707-3970 Email: contact@kpischool.com URL: http://kpischool.com Admissions: Itsuko Takeuchi

Keiki Intercultural Preschool Ages: 3 to 6 years 4-5-8 Nakamachi, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3703-8778 Fax: 03-3703-8778 Email: admin@keikipreschool.com URL: www.keikipreschool.com Admissions: Jeong La Dumas PTC Pacific International School Ages: 2.5 to 6 years 5-11-5 Shimouma, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5481-9425 Fax: 03-5481-9425 Email: ptc-school@ptc-school.net URL: www.ptc-school.net/ Admissions: Yoko Takatsuka Seta International Preschool Ages: 18 months to 6 years 2-19-21 Seta, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-5717-6769 Email: sip@seta-inter.com URL: www.seta-inter.com Admissions: Masako Misumi Accreditations: Well-balanced curriculum with Montessori and manipulatives St. Mary’s International School Kindergarten to grade 12 1-6-19 Seta, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3709-3411 - Fax:03-3707-1950 Email: Admissions:@smis.ac.jp URL: www.smis.ac.jp Admissions: Bedos T. Santos Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Boys Accreditations: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Council of International Schools (CIS) Seisen International School Kindergarten to grade 12 1-12-15 Yoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3704-2661 - Fax: 03-3701-1033 Email: sisadmissions@seisen.com URL: www.seisen.com Admissions: Ninnette Trout Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Council of International Schools Seisen International School (Kindergarten/Preschool) Ages: 2 to 6 years 1-12-15 Yoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3702-9291 - Fax: 03-3701-1033 Email: siskg@seisen.com URL: www.seisen.com Admissions: Sheila O’Donoghue Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Tamagawa International Preschool Ages: 1.5 to 5 years 1-17-5 Tsurumaki, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3439-8685 Email: info@tips-japan.com URL: http://tips-japan.com/

SHIBUYA-KU Aoba-Japan International School (Shoto Campus) Pre-kinder & kindergarten 2-2-1 Shoto, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Tel: 03-5738-6556 Email: shoto@aobajapan.jp URL: www.aobajapan.jp Admissions: shoto.admissions@aobajapan.jp British School in Tokyo (Shibuya Campus) Ages: Nursery to 3 years 1-21-18 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5467-4321 - Fax: 03-5467-4322 Email: admissions@bst.ac.jp URL: www.bst.ac.jp Admissions: Lowly Norgate Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: British curriculum International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH) Pre-kindergarten to grade 12 4-3-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3400-3951 - Fax: 03-3400-3496 Email: admissions@issh.ac.jp URL: www.issh.ac.jp Admissions: Hideko Hisamune Annual Schedule: Late August to early June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Girls Accreditations: US Western Association of Schools and Colleges, European Council of International Schools International School of the Sacred Heart (Kindergarten) Ages: 3 to 5 years 4-3-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3400-3951 - Fax: 03-3400-3496 Email: admissions@issh.ac.jp URL: www.issh.ac.jp Admissions: Ms. Kawaguchi Annual Schedule: Late August to early June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Jingumae International Exchange School Ages: 3 years to grade 6 4-20-12 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-5413-6090 Email: shibuya@jies.jp URL: www.jies.jp/ Admissions: Keiko Mikawa Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Maria’s Babies’ Society Ages: 18 months to 6 years Tomy’s House #101 3-36-20 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku,Tokyo Tel: 03-3404-3468 - Fax: 03-3404-3625 Email: contact@mariasbabies.co.jp URL: www.mariasbabies.co.jp Admissions: Maria Matsuoka Poppins International Pre-school (PIPS) Ages: 1 to 3 years Yebisu Garden Terrace Nibankan 4-20-2 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5791-2105 - Fax: 03-5791-2106 Email: pips@poppins.co.jp URL: http://www.poppins.co.jp/english/ Admissions: Camille James Saint Annie’s International Kindergarten Ages: 1 to 5 years 1-5-3 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6407-9221 - Fax: 03-6407-9221 Email: kids@saintannie.net URL: http://saintannie.net Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed

Living Japan Vol. 8

St. Marian Nursery School Ages: 45 days to 8 years 1-16-12 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3461-1050 - Fax: 03-3461-1021 URL: www.st-marian.co.jp Sesame International Preschool Ages: 18 months to 6 years 1-5-14 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5485-1197 - Fax: 03-5485-1219 Email: sesame@jap.co.jp URL: http://sesame.jap.co.jp Admissions: Ms. Sachiko Nagasawa Yoyogi International School Ages: 18 months to 6 years 1-15-12 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5478-6714 - Fax: 03-5478-6713 Email: info@ yoyogiinternationalschool.com URL: www.yoyogiinternationalschool.com Admissions: Yuko Muir

SHINAGAWA-KU Canadian International School Pre-kindergarten to grade 12 5-8-20 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5793-1392 - Fax: 03-5792-3559 Admissions: Noriko Akahane Annual schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: WASC and the Canadian province of PEI KAIS International School Grade 6 to 12 2-7-16 Kami-Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-5421-0127 Email: contact@kaischool.com URL: www.kaischool.com Admissions: Misako Horikawa Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed

SUGINAMI-KU Aoba-Japan International School (Suginami Campus) Kindergarten to grade 9 2-10-7 Miyamae, Suginami-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3335-6620 - Fax: 03-3332-6930 Email: suginami@aobajapan.jp URL: www.aobajapan.jp Admissions: suginami.admissions@aobajapan.jp Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: Complete English curriculum, integrated Japanese language program Busy Bees International School Ages: 3 to 6 years B1F, 1-19-14 Izumi, Suginami-ku, Tokyo Tel/Fax: 03-6413-1901 Email: info@busybees-school.com URL: www.busybees-school. com/en/ Admissions: Willie Hines Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed

TOSHIMA-KU New International School Preschool age 3 to grade 12 3-18-32 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3980-1057 - Fax: 03-3980-1154 Email: contact@newis.ed.jp URL: http://newis.ed.jp/ Admissions: Steven Parr

Annual Schedule: August to mid June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed

OTHER WARDS The American School in Japan Nursery to grade 12 1-1-1 Nomizu, Chofu, Tokyo Tel: 0422-34-5300 - Fax: 0422-34-5303 Email: enroll@asij.ac.jp URL: http://community.asij.ac.jp Admissions: Mary Margaret Mallat Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Accreditations: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Christian Academy in Japan Kindergarten to grade 12 1-2-14 Shinkawacho, Higashi-Kurume, Tokyo Tel: 0424-71-0022 - Fax: 0424-76-2200 Email: infodesk@caj.or.jp URL: http://caj.or.jp Admissions: Carolyn Edams Annual Schedule: September to June Accreditations: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Christian school Tokyo International Learning Community (TILC) For children with learning difficulties 2-51-7 Tamacho, Fuchu, Tokyo Tel: 042-401-0585 - Fax: 042-401-0588 Admissions: Dennis McKibben

YOKOHAMA Deutsche Schule Tokyo Yokohama Ages: 3 years to grade 12 2-4-1 Chigasaki-Minami, Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-941-4841 - Fax: 045-941-4481 Email: dsty@dsty.ac.jp URL: http://www.dsty.jp Admissions: Petra Wels Annual Schedule: September to June Accreditations: German curriculum, German Baccalaureate Horizon Japan International School (Yokohama) Ages: 3 years to grade 9 1-33-6 Higashi-Terao, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-584-1948 - Fax: 045-584-1947 Email: hjis@horizon.ac.jp URL: http://www.horizon.ac.jp Admissions: Yumiko Ozeki Annual Schedule: September to June Saint Maur International School Ages: 2.5 years to grade 12 83 Yamatecho, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-641-5751 - Fax: 045-641-6688 Email: Admissions:@stmaur.ac.jp URL: www.stmaur.ac.jp Annual Schedule: August to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Tree House Montessori School Ages: 1 to 6 years 16-5 Honmoku-Makado, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-622-5804 - Fax: 045-622-2803 Email: jenny@tms-school.com URL: www.tms-school.com Admissions: Jenny Vyvial Annual Schedule: September to June Co-ed/Boys/Girls: Co-ed Yokohama Overseas Chinese School Pre-school to grade 12

142 Yamashitacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-681-3608 - Fax: 045-671-1070 Email: yocs@yocs.jp URL: www.yocs.jp/ Yokohama Yamate Chinese School Pre-school to grade 9 2-66 Yoshihamacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-641-0393 - Fax: 045-641-3776 Email: bosyu@yokohamayamatechineseschool.ed.jp URL: www.yokohamayamate-chineseschool.ed.jp Yokohama International School Ages: 3 years to grade 12 258 Yamatecho, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-622-0084 - Fax: 045-621-0379 Email: yis@yis.ac.jp URL: www.yis.ac.jp Admissions: Susan Chen Annual Schedule: August to June Yokohama Union Church International Preschool Ages: 2 to 4 years 66-2 Yamatecho, Naka-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-651-5177 - Fax: 045-651-5191 Email: preschool@yokohamaunionchurch.org URL: http://preschool.yokohamaunionchurch.org Admissions: Linda Schmidt

CHIBA Makuhari International School Kindergarten to grade 6 3-2-9 Wakaba, Mihama-ku, Chiba Tel: 043-296-0277 - Fax: 043-296-0186 Email: info@mis.or.jp URL: http://mis.ed.jp Admissions: Paul Rogers Annual Schedule: April to March

SAITAMA Columbia International School 1-5-3 Matsugo-Tokorozawa, Saitama Tel: 04-2946-1911 - Fax: 04-2946-1955 Email: holland@columbia-ca.co.jp URL: http://www.columbia-ca.co.jp Contact: Christopher Holland

MBA PROGRAMS & BUSINESS SCHOOLS TOKYO Anaheim University-Akio Morita Learning Center Raykay Minami Aoyama Bldg. 5-4-29 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3498-1005 Email: info@anaheim.edu URL: http://www.anaheim.edu Programs: Online MBA Language of instruction: English Globis Sumitomo Fudosan Kojimachi Bldg. 5-1 Nibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 0120-153-981 - Fax: 03-5275-3787 Email: mba-tokyo@globis.ac.jp URL: http://www.globis.co.jp/en/

Programs: One-year full-time, part-time MBA Language of instruction: English, Japanese Hitotsubashi University Graduate School of International Corporate Strategy (ICS) National Center of Sciences 2-1-2 Hitotsubashi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Fax: 03-4212-3006 Email: ics-info@ics.hit-u.ac.jp URL: http://www.ics.hit-u.ac.jp Programs: One-year full-time, two-year full time, dual degree Language of instruction: English McGill MBA Japan Hilton Tokyo, Room 2001, 6-6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3342-3430 - Fax: 03-3342-3431 Email: inquiry@mcgillmbajapan.com URL: http://mcgillmbajapan.com Programs: Part-time MBA Language of instruction: English

URL: http://www.kbs.keio.ac.jp/en/ Programs: Two-year full time Language of instruction: Japanese

BUSINESS SCHOOL Dale Carnegie Training Akasaka 2 Chome Annex 5F, #501, 2-19-8 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-4520-5470 Email: info@dale-carnegie.co.jp URL: http://japan.dalecarnegie.com Programs: Courses, short seminars, online Language of instruction: English, Japanese

CLINICS & HOSPITALS

Rikkyo University Graduate School of Business 3-34-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3985-4288 - Fax: 03-3985-4008 Email: mib@rikkyo.ac.jp URL: http://www.rikkyo.ac.jp/mib/ Programs: Two-year full-time, part-time MBA Language of Instruction: English, Japanese

CLINICS

Temple University Executive MBA Program 4-1-27 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5441-9871 Email: emba@tuj.temple.edu URL: http://www.tuj.ac.jp/mba/ Programs: EMBA, Language of instruction: English

Imperial Clinic The Imperial Hotel 4F 1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3503-8681

The University of Tsukuba Graduate School of Business Sciences, MBA Program in International Business 3-29-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3942-6918 - Fax: 03-3942-6835 URL: http://www.mbaib.gsbs.tsukuba.ac.jp Programs: MBA-IB Language of instruction: English

CHIYODA-KU Hibiya Clinic Toho Twin Tower B3F 1-5-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3582-2646

Kaijo Clinic Tokyo Kaijo Building Shinkan 3F 1-2-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3212-7690

KOTO-KU Hirano Kameido Himawari Clinic Z Bldg. 2F 7-10-1 Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5609-1823

Tokyo Business School (UIBS) Regus Business Center, Shinjuku Park Tower 3-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5326-3477 Email: info@tokyo.uibs.asia URL: http://www.tokyo.uibs.asia/index.php Programs: Full-time, part-time MBA, dual degree, EMBA Language of instruction: English

Toho Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clinic 5-3-10 Kiba, Koto-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3630-0303

Waseda Business School (WBS) Admissions Office Bldg.11, 3F, 1-6-1 Nishi-Waseda, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5286-8719 - Fax: 03-5286-8720 Email: wbs@list.waseda.jp URL: http://wasedamba.jp Programs: Two-year full time, part-time, dual degree Language of instruction: Japanese, English

Azabu Otolaryngology Clinic Azabu-Yano Bldg. 2F 4-13-5 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3448-0248

YOKOHAMA Keio Business School (KBS) 4-1-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama Tel: 04-5564-2441 Email: gakukbs@info.keio.ac.jp

MINATO-KU Akasaka Sekiguchi Clinic International OAG-Haus (German Cultural Center) 406 7-5-56 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3584-1727

Helios Acupuncture Clinic Room 1003, Calm Nogizaka Bldg. 9-6-27 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3403-3272 International Clinic 1-5-9 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3583-7831 Kamiyacho Clinic Tokyu Reit Toranomon Bldg. 1F

3-17-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3433-0343

CHIYODA-KU

Kanda Second Clinic Umeda Bldg. 2F 3-20-14 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3402-0654

Inoue Eye Hospital 4-3 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3295-0911

National Medical Clinic #202 5-16-11 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3473-2057

Nihon University Surugadai Hospital 1-8-13 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3293-1711

Tokyo Medical & Surgical Clinic 32 Shiba Koen Bldg., 2F 3-4-30 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3436-3028

Tokyo Teishin Hospital 2-14-23 Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5214-7111

Tokyo Women’s Clinic Roppongi Denki Bldg. 2F 6-1-20, Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3408-6950

St Luke’s International Hospital 9-1 Akashicho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3541-5151

SHIBUYA-KU Fertility Clinic Tokyo (Odawara Women’s Clinic) Frontier Ebisu Bldg. 1F 3-13-11 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3406-6868 The King Clinic Iori Omotesando B1F 6-31-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3409-0764 Nozaki Eye Clinic Kasuya Bldg. 2-9 Sakuragaoka, Shibuya-ku,Tokyo Tel: 03-3461-1671 Odawara Women’s Clinic Frontier Ebisu Bldg. 1F 3-13-11 Shibuya-ku higashi, Tokyo Tel: 03-3406-6868 Tokyo British Clinic Daikanyama Y Bldg. 2F 2-13-7 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5458-6099 Tokyo Maternity Clinic 1-20-8 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3403-1861

SHINJUKU-KU Mizumachi Clinic Odakyu Daiichi Seimei Bldg. 3F 2-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3348-2181 Sakakibara Kinen Clinic Shinjuku NS Bldg. 4F 2-4-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3344-4817 Shinjuku Mitsui Bldg Clinic 4 - 5F 2-1-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3344-3311 Takeshita Clinic 2-14-22 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3200-1281

SHINAGAWA-KU Endo Clinic 305 Meguro Nishiguchi Mansion 2-24-13 Kamio-Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3492-6422

HOSPITALS

Living Japan Vol. 8

CHUO-KU

Tel: 03-3353-1211

SUGINAMI-KU Tokyo Adventist Hospital 3-17-3 Amanuma, Suginami-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3392-6151

CHIROPRACTIC Akasaka Chiropractic 3F 2-17-58 Akasaka, Minato-ku Tokyo Tel: 03-5561-0531

PHARMACIES

MINATO-KU

American Pharmacy - Marunouchi Marunouchi Bldg. B1F 2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5220-7716

Aiiku Hospital 5-6-8 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3473-8321

National Azabu - Supermarket Pharmacy 4-5-2 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3442-3181

Saiseikai Central Hospital 1-4-17 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3451-8211

The Medical Dispensary 32 Mori Bldg. 3-4-30 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3434-5817

Sanno Hospital 8-10-16 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3402-3151

SETAGAYA-KU Shiseikai Daini Hospital 5-19-1 Kami-Soshigaya, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3300-0366

SHIBUYA-KU Japan Red Cross Medical Center 4-1-22 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3400-1311 Tokai University Tokyo Hospital 1-2-5 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3370-2321 Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital 2-34-10 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3444-1181

SHINAGAWA-KU Endo Clinic 305 Meguro Nishiguchi Mansion 2-24-13 Kamio-Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3492-6422 NTT Kanto Teishin Hospital 5-9-22 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3448-6111

SHINJUKU-KU International Catholic Hospital (Seibo Hospital) 2-5-1 Naka-Ochiai, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3951-1111 Kato Ladies Clinic West Gate Shinjuku Bldg. 7-20-3 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3366-3777 Keio University Hospital 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

TV SERVICES GETTING TV SERVICE There are 12 channels of publicly broadcast TV in Tokyo including the government NHK channels. Since most of the programming is exclusively in Japanese (although some news programs are broadcast with English translations) it may not be very entertaining for non- Japanese speakers. Fortunately, there is a selection of cable, optical fiber, and satellite service providers in Japan, which provide access to a wide variety of international programming.

CABLE TV SERVICE PROVIDERS About 80% of the buildings in Tokyo are already connected with cable TV (CATV), but in some rare cases where the building is not connected it might be difficult to install CATV. This is an important point to confirm when searching for your new apartment. For more info: www.jcom.co.jp/services/tv/ course.html Each ward or city has its own cable TV service provider. The channels and packages offered by each company are quite similar. The cable service providers offer a choice of about 7 10 English and Japanese Bilingual channels and 40-50 specialty channels. There are two set packages of channels to choose from with some optional channels you can add to each. The monthly rate is about ¥4,400 - ¥6,000 for a package of channels depending where you live and which package you choose. Some of the major international channels:

FOX, SuperChannel (movies), CNN, The Discovery Channel, The History Channel, MTV CABLE TV SETUP 1. Call your local cable company and have them send an application form. 2. Fill in all the details and choose your package and optional channels. You will have to specify payment by credit card or direct bank payment. 3. In about 3 days - 1 week someone from the cable company will come and install the cable. You will have to designate a room for the cable to be installed. Basically it is 1 line and 1 tuner for1 TV. (You won’t be able to see cable TV in every room that has a TV jack - only the jacks that the Cable TV person has installed) SATELLITE TV - SKY PERFECTV! The other option for expanded TV programming is satellite TV service. The dominant provider is SKY PerfecTV! which includes SKY PerfecTV! and SKY PerfecTV! e2. Both are direct broadcast satellite services (DBS).

THE DIGITAL TV ERA In 2003, TV Japan entered a new era of digital television (or “chideji” in Japanese) as part of the transition from analog broadcasting to nationwide digital in July of 2011. The new digital broadcasting offers better graphic quality (digital high vision), better sound, subtitles and audio guidance. If you are new to Japan or haven’t made the leap to digital yet, expect to spend some money on compatible hardware to get setup due to the 2011 changeover. Access to digital broadcasting requires cable or satellite television services, a digital broadcasting tuner, and in some cases a UHF antenna. Many televisions already have builtin digital broadcasting tuners so only a UHF antenna may be needed. UHF antennas can be purchased at most electronics shops, (prices are about ¥3,000 to ¥8,000). Some TVs (especially analog-only TVs) will require a separate digital tuner, which costs about ¥20,000.

If your building is older than 3 years, then you will probably need to setup and install a small SKY PerfecTV! satellite dish on your balcony. It is necessary to install the satellite dish in such a way that it has an unobstructed view of the sun between 1:00 and 2:00pm on a fine day towards the southwest. Placing the dish on the roof of your building may require the building owner’s permission. It may be difficult to install the dish yourself so it may be better to arrange to have a professional install it for you. In some cases newer buildings will already have a dish on the roof for SKY PerfecTV! and you will just have to buy a tuner, which costs around ¥8,800 - ¥10,800. A tuner and dish will cost ¥6,825 - ¥13,125. You can purchase these items at any major electronics store and installation will cost about ¥10,000 - ¥15,000.

The Association for Promotion of Digital Broadcasting offers more information on its website www.dpa.or.jp/english/

Out of a total 290 channels SKY PerfecTV! offers about 48 English channels but the channels will depend on which plan you have.

INTERNET

Some of the channels include: The GOLF CHANNEL, J Sports 1+2+3,Sports-I, ESPN, Cinefil Imagica, Star Channel Multiplex, Movie Plus, Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, Animax, Disney, Bloomberg, FOX, CNN, BBC Optical Fiber Broadcasting TV Service Fiber optic TV (or Hikari TV as it is called) is the most high tech option for TV service in Japan and is often bundled together with internet (and possibly IP phone) at a more reasonable rates. SkyPerfecTV Hikari HD (Flet’s TV Plan) Initial Fee - 2,940yen Monthly Fee: approx. 6,000yen SkyPerfecTV Hikari HD (Apartment Plan) Initial Fee - 2,940yen Monthly Fee: approx. 5,000yen Some of the channels include: The Golf Network, J Sports 1+2+3 HD, Cinefil Imagica, Movie Plus HD, Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, Animax, Disney, History Channel, FOX HD, FOX Crime HD, CNNj, National Geographic

CABLE TV & INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS Shinagawa Cable TV www.cts.ne.jp (Japanese only) ITS Communications Shibuya,Meguro,Setagaya, Shinagawa & Ota wards www.itscom.net/en/ JCOM www.jcom.co.jp/english/services.html Minato Cable & Shinjuku Cable TV http://w3.cabletv.co.jp/ (Japanese only)

Note: the application process usually takes about 2 weeks depending on the provider. • Initial fee to get ADSL ¥4,000–¥7,000 • ADSL Internet package ¥2.000 – ¥3,000/ month

CABLE MODEM Cable Internet service can be very fast depending on which network you are connected to. The speeds vary widely up to a maximum of 100mb/s for downloads. Cable modems are great for streaming content, such as video or net-radio as they are quite stable. It can be cheaper if you buy a package with cable TV and internet bundled together. When having your cable internet installed you will need to specify which room or rooms you want to have connected for not all jacks in your apartment will necessarily be an internet connection unless requested. www.jcom.co.jp/english/pricing.html

HOW TO APPLY FOR CABLE INTERNET If your building is already wired for internet cable service, (most newer buildings are), getting the service is quite easy. You need only contact your local cable company, fill out an application, and wait for installation. Note: If your building already has this service this process usually takes 10-14 days • Initial fee to get cable internet ¥5,000 – ¥10,000 • Initial fee to get cable TV and internet ¥5,000–¥10,000 • Cable internet package ¥2.980 – ¥6,500/ month • Cable internet and TV package approx. ¥6,000 – ¥10,000/month

HIKARI FIBER

TYPES OF INTERNET SERVICE Whether you want to surf the internet for business or pleasure it is one of the things you will probably want to get set up as soon as possible. You will need to choose an ISP (Internet Service Provider), and what type of connection you would like to use. Other than pocket Wifi devices (which are a bit expensive and slow), there are basically three ways to connect: ADSL, Cable, and Hikari Fiber.

ADSL ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is similar to DSL in the US. Although the technology is a bit dated it is still widely used in Japan as it is relatively cheap when compared with other services. ADSL services come in many speed offerings up to about 50mb/s. ADSL actually uses an analog line, which is split and allows you to surf the internet and make calls at the same time. When having ADSL installed you will need to specify to NTT which room or rooms you want to have connected for not all jacks in your apartment will necessarily be an internet connection.

Fiber-optic or “Hikari-Fiber” as it’s known in Japan, is the current speed king. Having a fiberoptic system installed in your home will require that you contact your building owner, and a Hikari provider to see if your area has access to the service. Where as Dial-up, ADSL and Cable use existing lines, Hikari-Fiber is a relatively new system and one that has not been implemented widely. The fiber-optic network for this service is provided by TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company). One great benefit of using Hikari fiber is that your line will nearly always be stable. You can expect consistent transfer times, and incredibly fast loading times of up to 100mb/s for downloads on the internet. HOW TO APPLY FOR HIKARI-FIBER Basically you will need to check with your building management and a provider first to see if this service is available in your building. Note: Many of the newest buildings in central Tokyo already have this network and service available so getting setup is quite easy. If your building already has this service this process usually takes about one month to be installed. • Initial fee to get Hikari-Fiber Approx. ¥800 – ¥3,000 • Hikari-Fiber internet package Approx. ¥4,000 – ¥7,000 /month • Hikari-Fiber internet and TV package Approx. ¥7.000 – ¥10,000 /month

PHONE SERVICE There are basically two types of telephone line services in Japan. One is a standard traditional analog phone line service and the other is IP phone service.

ANALOG PHONE LINE Japan’s fixed line system traditionally required the purchase of a phone line (technically speaking a “right” to install a phone). This non-refundable “right” is however transferable for a small fee and trades at a significant discount through brokers or agents. As such, few people will actually purchase it directly from NTT (Nippon Telegraph and Telephone), which charges significantly more for the new line or “right”. You also have the option of buying a line directly from a broker or at an online auction or renting a line from NTT for ¥800/ month on top of your regular phone bill.

IP PHONE Another option which has become quite popular is to have an IP-phone account set up with your internet provider or NTT. This service allows for calls to be made through the internet using a regular house phone. The calls are routed through an IP phone capable modem instead of using the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). In the case of NTT’s Flet’s Hikari optical fiber service, you can expect the same type of phone numbers (such as 03-XXXX-XXXX), a lower monthly fee, and a lower calling rate compared to standard analog phone service.

NTT ANALOG TELEPHONE SERVICE Required Fees (For Individual Application) • NTT Activation Fee - 2,940 - 15,750yen • NTT Monthly Fee - 2,940yen Note: • It takes approximately 7 days to activate after your application • NTT Installation fee will be 2,800yen if no need to visit your residence for activation • Calling fees will be charged separately • Prices shown above are including tax

NTT IP TELEPHONE SERVICE (HIKARI DENWA) Required Fees (If using Flet’s Hikari Apartment Type) • NTT Activation Fee - FREE (if you activate at the same time as Flet’s Hikari service), 1,050yen (if you activate independently). • NTT Monthly Fee - 997yen (incl. IP Phone router rental cost) Note: • It takes approximately 7 days to activate after your application • You will need to have Flet’s Hikari optical fiber service in order to use this service • Calling fees will be charged separately • With this service, you cannot make call to prefix numbers start from “00” • If you have a security system or built-in phone system, please check the compatibility in advance • Prices shown above are including tax

Living Japan Vol. 8

CARS DRIVING IN JAPAN Driving in Japan can be difficult for foreigners who are used to driving on the right side of the road or following different rules. In Japan, driving is the same as Australia, Britain and a number of other countries that drive on the left side. Basically, the road signs and rules follow international standards, and fortunately most signs on major roads and highways are in both Japanese and English. Drivers must be at least 18 years of age or older to legally drive in Japan.

DRIVING COSTS Relative to the cost of living, buying a car is not that expensive in Japan. In the homeland of Toyota, Honda and Nissan there are many deals on used and new cars. Owning and maintaining a car is the expensive part due to the mandatory inspections (shaken), insurance every two to three years, automobile taxes, high parking costs in cities, expensive tolls on highways, and the high price of gasoline. Getting a drivers license can also be quite expensive due to the mandatory driver’s education course.

BUYING CARS Due to many local regulations and taxes, buying a car in Japan can be a bit painful. However, you will enjoy the wide selection of Japanese and imported cars. Dealers in Japan normally show only the base price for the car, but the actual “on-the- road” cost will go up as additional mandatory charges are added on top of it. “Shaken” is the Japanese vehicle inspection system, which is a series of tax payments. The first Shaken inspection and payment is valid for three years on new cars, after that it must be paid every two years.

GETTING A DRIVER’S LICENSE Foreign residents who already have a valid driver’s license from their home country can drive for up to one year in Japan with an international driver’s license. International driving permits must be obtained in your home country, usually through the national automobile association before coming to Japan. However, Japan only recognizes international driving permits from countries on the Geneva Convention of 1949. Therefore, international driving permits from some countries, such as France, Germany and Switzerland, are not valid in Japan. Instead, foreign residents with driving permits from these countries can drive in Japan for up to one year with an official Japanese translation of their driving licenses from their respective embassies or consulates in Japan. Foreigners who reside in Japan for more than one year and wish to continue to drive in Japan must convert their driver’s license into a Japanese license by getting a translation of their country’s license and by taking an eye exam, aptitude test and possibly a practical exam. Residents from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, France or other European countries are exempt from the tests and can change their driver’s license easily. Residents from the US and some other countries have to take a written and driving practical exam to change their license into a Japanese one.

For more information about Japanese driver’s licenses: www.japandriverslicense.com

NECESSARY DOCUMENTS & FEES 1. Residence card 2. One 3 x 2.4cm photo (color or B/W) 3. Passport 4. Valid driver’s license from your home country 5. Japanese translation of your original license from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). For this you will need a photocopy of the front and back of your drivers license and, in the case of most countries, your resident card. The translation costs ¥3,000 and can be done at the JAF or by post. 6. Fee of ¥4,150 For more information: www.jaf.or.jp/e/membership_s.htm JAF is an organization which provides 24-hour road service throughout the year. If your car breaks down, or you lock your keys in the car, you can easily contact JAF for help. The JAF annual membership fee is about ¥4,000. JAF Regional Headquarters 2-2-17 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6833-9000 To download the application form and get more info: www.jaf.or.jp/e/switch.htm The book “Rules of the Road” is an easy to read English translation of the actual rules of the road in Japan prepared by the National Public Safety Commission. It is available from JAF offices for about ¥1,000.

RENTING A CAR IN JAPAN Renting a car is usually an economical option, especially if you are planning to explore rural Japan and are traveling in groups. To rent and drive a car in Japan you need a Japanese driving license or an international driving permit. Some of Japan’s leading car rental companies are Japaren, Mazda Rent-a-car, Nissan Renta-car, Toyota Rentalease, Nippon Rent-a-car and Orix Rent-a-car. They operate hundreds of outlets across Japan, offering cars in all sizes and, in some cases, large vans, buses and RVs. Note: Most Japanese car rental companies do not provide English websites or service in English.

TYPICAL COSTS FOR RENTING CARS • Smaller compact cars – about ¥6,000/day • Mid-sized cars – about ¥10,000/day • Full-sized cars- about ¥15,000/day • Prices include a mandatory insurance fee • Rates are usually higher during peak seasons • Tocoo Club is a recommended budget car rental service for in Japan. Tocoo Club offers online discounts, and has service in English • For more information: www2.tocoo.jp/english/ TOLLS & ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) One of the major expenses about driving in Japan is the highway tolls. Even the metropolitan expressways from Tokyo to the neighboring suburbs are toll-roads costing about ¥700. Tolls must be paid in cash, highway ticket or coupon at the time of entry or departure from the expressway. There is also an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system in place at most tolls, which

has reduced congestion in these areas. The system requires the driver to have an ETC compatible credit card and a wireless transmitter.

HIGHWAYS A highway network of over 7,000 kilometers covers Japan’s four main islands and Okinawa. Foreign visitors should find it relatively easy to use Japanese highways, since all the important signs are written in both Japanese and English. The speed limit for passenger cars is usually 100 km/h.

AIR AIRPORTS IN TOKYO There are two airports serving the greater Tokyo area. Haneda airport (HND), is by far Japan’s busiest airport handling most of Tokyo’s domestic flights. It has three terminals, and is located about 30 minutes south of central Tokyo. Narita airport (NRT), is a major international gateway and handles almost all of the international flights for the capital city. It has two terminals and is located in the city of Narita in Chiba Prefecture, about 60 km northwest of Tokyo.

INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC AIRFARE Fortunately, international flights to and from Japan have been getting cheaper in recent years due to increasing competition between airlines. However, to avoid the crowds and the most expensive ticket fares you should try to fly outside the peak seasons, which include Christmas and New Years, Golden Week (the end of April beginning of May), and the summer holidays of July and August (especially during the Japanese Obon holiday in mid to late August). Similarly flights within Japan have been getting cheaper and cheaper (if you fly outside the peak seasons). In some cases, flying is now a cheaper option than taking the Shinkansen (bullet train).

GETTING TO AND FROM NARITA AIRPORT Perhaps most comfortable and convenient way to get to and from Tokyo is the JR Narita Express (NEX) – there are departures every 30 to 60 minutes and it takes approximately 1 hour. NEX ‘s newest cars have electronic displays showing train stops and flight information in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. All seats are also equipped with electrical outlets and wireless internet connections (UQ Wi-Fi or BB Mobile Point subscription required). For more information: www.jreast.co.jp/nex/car/

ACCESS TO NARITA AIRPORT All seats are reserved and the one-way fare between Narita airport and Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinagawa, Shinjuku or Yokohama stations costs around ¥3,200. For more information: www.jreast.co.jp/e/nex/ The JR Sobu Line, (rapid service), is a bit slower

but cheaper alternative to the Narita Express – it takes about 90 minutes from Narita airport to Tokyo station and costs ¥1,280 for the one way journey. Departures are usually about one per hour. On July 17th 2010, Keisei railway started a new train service called ‘Narita Sky Access’ which is now the fastest way to get to and from Narita. The new ‘Narita Sky Access’ makes the trip from Narita to Nippori (north of Tokyo station) in just 36 minutes and costs about ¥2,400. Departures are usually every 20 to 30 minutes. For more information: www.keisei.co.jp/keisei/ tetudou/skyliner/us/ Limousine buses to Tokyo station or Shinjuku depart Narita airport every 15 to 20 minutes. The one-way journey takes about 80 to 100 minutes and costs about ¥3,000. In many cases buses connect to or pick-up passengers at major hotels. Considering all the other much cheaper, faster, and more convenient ways to get to and from the airport, taking a taxi is not a viable option. Depending on traffic, it could take up to two hours and cost as much as ¥15,000 or more.

TRAINS

• Kodama: The slowest category. Kodama trains stop at all stations.

JAPAN RAILWAYS (JR) The Japan Railway group is actually made up of six regional railway companies (JR Hokkaido, JR East, JR Central, JR Shikoku, and JR Kyushu), which operate a nationwide network of urban, regional and interregional train lines, night trains and bullet trains (Shinkansen). There are 5 major JR lines in central Tokyo: Yamanote Line, Keihin Tohoku Line, Chuo/ Sobu Line, Chuo Line, Saikyo/ Rinkai Line. Other railway companies: Tokyu Railways, Tobu Railways, Seibu Railways, Keio Railways, Odakyu Railways, Keisei Railways, Keikyu Railways.

TOKYO’S SUBWAY SYSTEM Compared to some Tokyo’s subway system may be a bit expensive, but it is very highly developed, convenient and runs with ultimate precision. This makes it one of the best ways to get around, even for newcomers. Tokyo’s subway system is operated by the Toei subway with four lines, and Tokyo Metro, operating eight lines. Together these two systems service Tokyo with a dense network of subways. The area inside the circular Yamanote line is especially close-knit with one or more train stations never more than 500 meters away.

JR TRAIN LINES IN TOKYO Japan’s railway system includes the Japan Railway (JR) nationwide network, some private railways, and the subways in major urban areas.

SHINKANSEN (BULLET TRAIN) The shinkansen is one of the world’s fastest and safest trains and covers the main island of Honshu via all the major cities (especially Tokyo). The first shinkansen, over 40 years ago, was the world’s first high speed train running at speeds of about 200km/h. Today, the shinkansen reaches speeds of over 300km/h and and has extended its service to almost all parts of the four major islands of Japan.

THE SHINKANSEN HONSHU DIVISIONS Osaka (Tokaido line), Aomori (Tohoku line), Yamagata (Yamagata line), Akita (Akita line), Niigata (Joetsu line), Nagano (Nagano Line). The shinkansen operating on these different networks have a variety of express trains, which stop at different stations and frequencies. The trains operating on the Tokaido/ Sanyo shinkansen are of the following three categories: • Nozomi: Nozomi are the fastest trains, which stop only at the most important stations, and reach Osaka from Tokyo in about two and a half hours. The Nozomi is one of the few trains on the JR network that cannot be used with the Japan Rail Pass. • Hikari: Hikari trains stop a little bit more frequently than Nozomi trains, and need roughly three hours to reach Osaka from Tokyo. On the Sanyo shinkansen, the Hikari trains are known as “Hikari Railstar”.

If you are planning to tour around Tokyo for a day there are a variety of money-saving tickets and day passes available which are valid for the calendar day that they are purchased. Tokyo Free Kippu (about ¥1,580) - Unlimited use of all Toei and Tokyo Metro subway and JR lines in central Tokyo for one day. Toei and Tokyo Metro One-Day Economy Pass (about ¥1,000) - Unlimited use of all Toei and Tokyo Metro subway lines for one day. Tokyo Metro One-Day Open Ticket (about ¥710) - Unlimited use of all Toei and Tokyo Metro subway lines for one day. This covers only eight of Tokyo’s twelve lines. Toei One-Day Economy Pass (about ¥700) Unlimited use of all Toei subway lines, buses, and streetcars for one day. This covers only four of Tokyo’s twelve lines. Holiday Pass (about ¥2,300) - Unlimited use of all local and rapid JR trains in the greater Tokyo area for one day. This includes Yokohama and Kamakura and can only be used on weekends and public holidays. Pasmo and Suica Cards (Value in increments of ¥1,000, refundable deposit of ¥500) - Prepaid cards purchased at ticket vending machines that can be used on almost all subway and JR trains. It uses a sensor which quickly reads your card when going through the ticket gates. The fare is automatically deducted from the card each time it is used and can be recharged again after each time it has been fully used. Prepaid cards don’t include a discount but are quite convenient because you don’t have to buy a ticket every time you take the train.

BANKING IN JAPAN For the most part Japan is still a cash-based society – most everyday payments are made in cash. However, frequently retail shops or restaurants will accept credit cards, and some may even have debit card readers, which automatically withdraw money from your account. To be safe though, you should always be prepared to pay cash while shopping, and you will need a bank account which allows frequent withdrawals in convenient locations. Bank accounts are available for individuals and businesses at Japanese banks or post offices, which are usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Everyday bank accounts usually pay interest, but the rates are so low that you may not notice. If you want to use your money to make more money, you may need to move it out of Japan, or at least into an account at a foreignbased bank. Citibank has the largest branch and ATM network of the foreign based banks in Japan, otherwise not many foreign banks currently provide retail banking services. Citibank also allows you to use overseas issued Citibank cards at ATMs in Japan, and use cards issued in Japan overseas to withdraw money in the local currency.

OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT Bank accounts at major banks or the post office are available for individuals and companies, (there are no joint accounts in Japan). Quite often people in Japan have two (or more) accounts, an account at a regular bank and a second account with the post office. The latter arrangement can be useful if you want to access the full range of transfer and payment services offered in the post office system. In order to open an account at a Japanese bank, you will need to present your residence card, and your hanko or inkan (personal seal or stamp). Your signature will be an adequate substitute for a seal on most occasions, but life in Japan will be smoother if you have one. Personal seals (inkan or hanko), are stamps bearing your name or the name of your company, and serve the same purpose as a personal signature on official documents. Most people have more than one: a seal for everyday use, and a ‘bank’ seal. Everyday seals are sold in a variety of locations, usually wherever you find pens and other stationery. They are often self-inking and are generally machine-made. ‘Bank’ seals are sold at special seal carvers’ shops, and are always hand-carved, which makes them individually identifiable like personal signatures.

CHECKS & CREDIT CARDS Checks are not used in Japan. The most common service used for large payments is an account-to-account transfer (furikomi). For purchases at shops, however, cash is your only option if you do not have a credit card.

Living Japan Vol. 8

The major credit cards used in Japan are VISA, Mastercard, Diners Club, American Express, JACCS, Saison, and JCB. To apply for credit cards in Japan you will need the same information as when you apply for a bank account. Only international ATMs found in post offices, major department stores and airports and Citibank ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards. Please note that all Maestro-cards issued outside the Asia-Pacific region apart from those issued in Canada and Netherlands are currently not accepted at Japanese ATMs anymore. The only exception are AEON Bank ATMs at Narita International Airport, Kansai International Airport, and AEON Mall Makuhari-shintoshin. Please refer to the MasterCard website for updates on the temporary suspension of MaestroCards in Japan.

EVERYDAY BANKING – ATMS You can take care of most of your everyday banking at automatic teller machines (ATM) and cash dispensers (CD). At ATMs one can pay, withdraw, deposit and transfer money (furikomi), while at CDs it is usually only possible to withdraw money. Some ATMs and CDs are unavailable on weekends and during the night, but the number of 24 hour ATMs is increasing. The machines found in convenience stores, for example, are often available around the clock. With a few exceptions, ATMs and CDs function just like bank machines in any country. They usually feature a touch sensitive screen to select the kind of transaction, and input cash amounts and personal information. Above the screen, there are slots to insert your cash card and your bankbook, and a sliding door, which will retract to reveal cash or allow you to insert cash. Some ATMs are in Japanese only, so you may need to ask for help with your first transactions.

OVERSEAS REMITTANCE If you want to send money to a foreign country on a regular basis, there are basically two types of remittance services: Registered Mail - send a bank check from your local bank (¥2,500 – ¥5,000), or postal money order from a post office (¥1,000 going up in increments of ¥500 according to the amount), via registered mail. Note: Sending money by registered mail is good for small amounts but takes 6-14 days. Electronic Transfer – send your money to an overseas account via telegraphic transfer (TT) from a bank or the Post Office (¥2,000 - ¥7,000). Note: Sending money electronically is fast (up to 2 business days) and secure but may be costly depending on the surcharges from overseas intermediary banks. Specialized remittance services are the most efficient way to send money overseas. The cheapest service is offered by Lloyds TSB Bank (¥2,000). Citibank offers commissionfree remittances only to account holders who maintain an account balance of over ¥20,000,000, otherwise it’s ¥3,500. Some major Japanese & foreign banks: Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ HSBC www.bk.mufg.jp/english/

www.hsbc.co.jp/1/2/home Citibank Lloyds TSB www.citibank.co.jp/en/ www.golloyds.com Mizuho Bank www.mizuhobank.co.jp/english/ Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation www.smbc.co.jp/global/ Shinsei Bank www.shinseibank.com/english/

POSTAL OFFICES Postal Services Information (English): 0570-046-111 Also, the post office publishes a new edition of its English language post office guide each March. It is available for a charge of ¥200 (plus an additional ¥180 shipping fee if you have it mailed).

POSTAL OFFICES IN JAPAN The Japanese postal system was privatized in early 2007, but most of the services offered have remained relatively the same. Most post offices are open between 9:00am and 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. Large central post offices are also open on the weekends. It is common to find drop-off mailboxes outside some convenience stores. International Mail Perhaps the best method, and most widely used international parcel service is EMS (Express Postal Tracking). EMS service allows you to track your parcels as you ship them to most countries around the world. Other notable options are as follows: • Express mail (sokutatsu) – from ¥270. Write “Express” in red ink in the top left corner of your item and it will be sent immediately after reaching the post office • Priority delivery registered mail (kakitome) – from ¥420 (may be insured) – special registered mail cash envelopes (genkin kakitome futo) are available for sending money • Surface mail (funabin - sea mail) • SAL (Surface airlifted) – delivery within 2 – 3 weeks. This is cheaper than airmail and faster than surface mail. • Airmail (kokubin) – delivery within 3 – 8 days. Domestic Mail The Japanese postal service has several classes of mail. The normal charge for a letter is ¥80, a postcard is ¥50, and a return-paid postcard is ¥100. Here are some of the other domestic mail services: • Standard letters – no thicker than 1cm & between 9 x 14cm and 12 x 23.5cm in size. Under 25 grams – ¥80, under 50 grams – ¥90 • Non-standard letters – ¥120 for 50 grams or less, and ¥1,350 for a maximum of 4kg • Mini letter (yubin shokan) – only thin materials to be included (e.g. piece of paper, photo) ¥60 (maximum 25 grams). • Express mail (sokutatsu) – from ¥270 • Priority delivery registered mail (kakitome) – from ¥420 (may be insured). Special registered mail cash envelopes (genkin kakitome futo) are available for sending money • Lettax (denshin-yubin) – hand written letters and pictures may be sent by facsimile, ¥580 (first page) • Parcels from ¥510 – postage varies according to weight of package and destination • Printed materials (shoseki kozutsumi) – the

cheapest way to send magazines, books and pamphlets within Japan • Money and flower delivery options are also available Postal Savings Accounts It is possible to set up a Postal savings account at almost any post office in Japan. You’ll need your residence card and your passport or other accepted Picture ID to open an account. Expect to wait up to two weeks to receive your cash card, which you will then be able to use at any post office and many ATMs across Japan.

HOTELS CHIYODA-KU The Capitol Hotel Tokyu 12-10-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3530-0109 - Fax: 03-3503-0309 URL: http://www.capitolhoteltokyu.com/en/ Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi 1-11-1 Pacific Century Place Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5222-5888 - Fax: 03-5222-1255 URL: http://www.fourseasons.com/tokyo/ Imperial Hotel Tokyo 1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3504-1251 - Fax: 03-3504-1258 URL:http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/tokyo/ New Otani 4-1 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3265-1111 - Fax: 03-3221-2619 URL: http://www.newotani.co.jp/en/tokyo/ The Peninsula Tokyo 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6270-2888 - Fax: 03-6270-2000 Email: ptk@peninsula.com URL: http://www.peninsula.com/Tokyo/en/ Shangri-La Hotel Marunouchi Trust Tower Main 1-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6739-7888 - Fax: 03-6739-7889 URL: http://www.shangri-la.com/tokyo/ shangrila/

URL: http://www.conradtokyo.co.jp Grand Hyatt Tokyo 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-4333-1234 - Fax: 03-4333-8123 Email: tokyo.grand@hyatt.com URL: http://tokyo.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/ home.html Hotel Okura Tokyo 2-10-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3582-0111 - Fax: 03-3582-3707 URL: http://www.hotelokura.co.jp/tokyo/en/ The Prince Park Tower Tokyo 4-8-1 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-56741-9155 URL: http://www.princehotels.com/en/ parktower/ The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo Midtown 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3423-8000 - Fax: 03-3423-8001 URL: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/ Tokyo/Default.htm Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo 1-1-50 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3447-3111 - Fax: 03-3447-3133 URL: http://www.miyakohotels.ne.jp/tokyo/ english/

MEGURO-KU The Westin Tokyo 1-4-1 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5423-7000 URL: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/ property/overview/?propertyID=1062

SHIBUYA-KU Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel 26-1 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3476-3000 - Fax: 03-3476-3001 URL: http://www.ceruleantower-hotel.com/en/

SHINJUKU-KU Hilton Tokyo Hotel 6-6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3344-5511 - Fax: 03-3342-6094 URL: http://www.hilton.co.jp/tokyo

CHUO-KU

Keio Plaza Tokyo 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3344-0111 - Fax: 03-3345-7269 URL: http://www.keioplaza.com

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3270-8800 Email: motyo-reservations@mohg.com URL: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo/

Park Hyatt Tokyo 3-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5322-1234 - Fax: 03-5322-1288 Email: tokyo.park@hyatt.com URL: http://tokyo.park.hyatt.jp/en/hotel/

MINATO-KU ANA Intercontinental Tokyo 1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3505-1111 - Fax: 03-3505-1155 Email: info@anaintercontinental-tokyo.jp URL: http://www.anaintercontinental-tokyo.jp/e/ Conrad Tokyo 1-9-1 Higashi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-6388-8000 Fax: 03-6388-8001 Email: TokyoInfo@conradhotels.com

YOKOHAMA The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu 2-3-7 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-682-2222 - Fax: 045-682-2223 Email: ccm@ybht.co.jp URL: http://ybht.co.jp/en/ Yokohama Bay Sheraton Hotel & Tower 1-3-23 Kitasaiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-411-1111 - Fax: 045-411-1343 Email: reservation@ybsh.jp URL: http://www.yokohamabay-sheraton.co.jp/ english/

Yokohama Grand Intercontinental Hotel 1-1-1 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama Tel: 045-223-2222 - Fax: 045-221-0650 Email: info@icyokohama.com URL: http://www.interconti.co.jp/yokohama/en/

IMMIGRATION ALIEN REGISTRATION & RE-ENTRY PERMITS DISCONTINUED Alien registration used to be required for all foreign residents over the age of 16 who were staying in Japan over 90 days and necessary when applying for almost any social service - mobile phones, bank accounts, apartment rentals, healthcare. or driver’s licenses. As of July 9, 2012, the Japanese government passed a law and replaced the alien registration system with the foreign residents’ registration system. Since July 10, 2012, alien registration cards are discontinued and replaced with resident cards. Where foreign residents used to apply for alien registration cards at their local municipal offices (or Ward offices) they now need to apply at regional immigration bureaus for resident cards.

NEW FOREIGN RESIDENTS’ REGISTRATION SYSTEM & ID CARD The new foreign residents’ registration system sees non-Japanese residents recorded alongside Japanese residents in the Jūminhyō system, (a registry of current residential addresses maintained by local governments in Japan). Current alien registration cards will be replaced with resident cards the next time foreign residents apply for a visa extension (or when they apply to change their status of residence, if they do this at an earlier date). Alien registration cards will become invalid on 8 July, 2015, or when the resident’s current visa expires, whichever comes first. Anyone issued with a visa valid for more than three months, or anyone who stays for more than three months, will require a resident card. With the new resident system, the maximum length of a visa (other than visas such as permanent residents or special long-term residents) for foreign residents was extended from three to five years, and a reentry permit won’t be required for overseas trips of up to one year (but of course not such that the visa expires while one is out of the country). Visa renewals will be automatically reported to city offices. Immigration department penalties for failing to promptly report changes in address to the city office may turn out to be quite severe. As it was the case for alien registration, penalties for not carrying registration cards at all times are still likely to be heavy. As well, the regional immigration bureau will likely be more active in checking to make sure foreign residents are in Japan legally, have Japanese national health insurance, and pay into the Japanese national pension scheme where applicable. For more information visit the immigration bureau web site:

www.immi-moj.go.jp/newimmiact_1/en/ point_1-2.html Tokyo Regional Immigration Bureau Office 5-5-30, Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-5796-7112 Hours: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 4pm Monday – Friday (except National holidays) Telephone inquiries are accepted only during office hours

IMMIGRATION INFORMATION CENTER If you need assistance on immigration matters, visit or call the new immigration information center in the Tokyo regional immigration bureau. The center provides consulting and information services on immigration procedures: • Guidance on procedures to apply for entry permission for spouses, employees and others • Guidance on procedures for acquiring or changing status of residence and extending periods of stay • Guidance on alien registration procedures • Guidance on various documents required for applications • Guidance on general immigration matters

DOMESTIC TIPS WALL DAMAGE

RE-ENTRY PERMITS

The typical wall coverings in Japanese apartments and homes are light colored cloth wallpaper which can be quite easily stained or torn. It is the tenant’s responsibility to keep these coverings clean and to avoid doing anything that may result in holes being made in the walls. Hanging pictures on the walls is certainly permissible if proper precautions are taken. Therefore, do not use screws, nails, or even pins without brackets when hanging pictures on the walls. The use of pin-type hanging brackets is recommended as they leave only pinholes which are hardly noticeable. You can buy pin-type hanging brackets at just about any lifestyle or hardware store such as Tokyu Hands.

With the new Foreign Residents’ Registration system which began July 10th, 2012, re-entry permits are no longer required for visa holders for overseas trips of up to one year.

Tokyu Hands Shibuya - located 5 minutes northwest from the Hachiko Square exit of Shibuya Station 10a.m. – 8:30p.m. – (03) 5489 – 5111

TYPES OF VISAS Working Holiday Visa - This is a special visa for young citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea, France, Germany, Norway, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Ireland and the United Kingdom. Holders are expected to work only part-time jobs and spend a portion of their time traveling in Japan. Working Visa - Before coming to work in Japan, foreigners need to apply for an appropriate working visa. You may also apply for a working visa after coming to Japan. In all cases you will need a company sponsor for your visa. There are about a dozen types of working visas, each allowing the holder to engage in paid activities only within a defined professional field - there are visas for artists, professors, engineers and instructors. If you change jobs while you are in Japan and the new job falls into a different professional field, you also need to change your status of residence. Most working visas are valid for one or three years and need to be extended before they expire. Student Visa - There are a few types of student visas depending on the type of studies. Holders can apply for a work permit, allowing them to work up to 28 hours per week. Spouse Visa - Applicants who are married to a Japanese national can apply for a spouse visa before or after coming to Japan. Visa holders are allowed to engage in any paid activity. A spouse visa is valid for one or three years and needs to be extended before it expires. Permanent Residence - Residents that have lived in Japan for at least five consecutive years and fulfill a few more conditions, may

be eligible to apply for permanent residence. Permanent residents do not need to worry about extending visas anymore and are allowed to engage in any paid activity.

Living Japan Vol. 8

Tokyu Hands Shinjuku - located a few minutes from the south exit of Shinjuku JR station in the Takashimaya department store 10a.m. – 8:30p.m. – (03) 5361 – 3111 www.tokyu-hands.co.jp/en/

CARPETS

A WORD ABOUT TRASH As in many countries, the rules regarding what to do with trash in Japan are quite particular. Basically, all trash needs to be separated into 3 types and either placed in the appropriate building trash bins (in the case of apartments) or put out at the curb on the proper collection day. For more information about trash collection schedules contact your building manager or local city ward office. Trash should be separated and treated as follows: Burnable Trash – (paper, biodegradables, organic materials and things that are easily and safely burnable) Burnable trash should be relatively dry, put into semi-transparent garbage bags, and placed in the “burnable garbage bins” in your apartment building or at the curb in a designated area on the proper “non-burnable trash” collection day (usually 2 days a week). Non-burnable Trash – (glass, china, vinyl, plastics, and metal) Non-burnable trash should be treated the same as burnable trash except placed in the “non-burnable garbage bins” or put out on the proper “non-burnable trash” collection day (usually 1 day a week). Recyclables – (cans, paper cartons, plastic bottles and containers, small bundles of newspaper or cardboard) Recyclables need to be sorted and separated, and either placed in the designated recycle bins or put out at the on the proper “recyclables” collection day (usually 1 day a week). For information concerning large oversized trash such as furniture, heavy garbage and large quantities of newspapers contact your building manager or local city ward office.

The carpets are the most expensive interior item and should be looked after with care to avoid damage or staining. Try to avoid putting any plants on carpeted floors as the bottom may get moldy even if in a waterproof vase. If you have a plant on the floor you should move it frequently, especially in the summer.

PLACEMENT OF FURNITURE When moving in and carrying furniture, all pieces should be wrapped in blankets, or cardboard in order not to damage the walls or floors. Your moving company will have to contact your new building management in order to arrange for the move-in and follow any special conditions during the move. To prevent mold it is a good idea to keep the area directly behind furniture ventilated by placing furniture at least five centimeters away from the walls.

APPLIANCES Unlike the typical apartment in Japan, most expat properties will come with appliances such as a fridge, washer, dryer, dishwasher, phones, phone lines and air conditioners. The filters of some of these appliances should be regularly cleaned as follows: Range-hoods, Air Conditioners, Washing Machines – every 2 weeks to once a month Dryers – filters should be cleaned at least after every 3 times being used

HOMAT President

1-3-20, Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo