Japan Edition 2016 by E-GulfMedia

CONTEMPORARY

2016 LAND OF THE RISING SUN

Japan-Kuwait n-Kuwait K it ti ties are llong standing t di Takashi ASHIKI, Ambassador

THE REAL JAPAN Asakusa and Mukojima

Japan Automobile Ind Industry

10 Famous Halal Restaurants

You Can Visit in Tokyo

5 Famous

Castles in Japan

Latest Technology

for Castle Lovers THE 44th TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

SPECIAL ISSUE

Travelogue: Japan a developed and modern nation

Itsukushima Shrine

Japan: Promising Point of Excellence

Rice: Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Staple Food and

for Medical Tourism issuu.com/e-gulfmedia

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in Japan Automobile Industry and the Island of Miyajima

Important Cultural Symbol

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Land of the Rising Sun

In cooperation with the Embassy of Japan - Kuwait

Faisal Motlaq Bejran General Manager

M. Irfan Nagra

Finance Manager

Khurram Sajjad Art Designer

Hamed Hassan issuu.com/e-gulfmedia

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w w w.e - gul f m e d i a . co m

Coordinator

Managing Editor

Shinji Bantani

Mujahid Iqbal

Cultural Attache’

Coordinator

Consultant

Dana Zibar

Ussuf Malik

Asst. Cultural Attache’ Public Relations

Adil Masood Photography

Saeed Ahmed

Project Manager

Amjad H. Qureshi Correspondent

M. Yamin Siddiqui

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

Mujahid Iqbal

Cell: +965 – 9955 8663 - Email:talk2mujahid@yahoo.com

CONTAC T

Chairman & Editor-in-Chief

Ambassador Tsujihara seeks to strengthen Kuwait-Japan ties

Top 10 Japanese Exporters

Popular Dishes of Japan Japan - Car Evolution

Japan Hot Spots Tokyo-New Perspectives

Sophisticated Digital Cameras Fans of Kyoto

Yukata - Traditional Garment Miss Japan crowned Miss International 2012

In Cooperation with the Embassy of Japan - KUWAIT

Issue: 2008

Issue: 2009

Issue: 2010

Issue: 2011

Issue: 2012

Issue: 2013

CONTEMPORARY

HAPPENINGS - Events & PR News

2015

Message: H. E. Takashi ASHIKI Ambassador of Japan to the State of Kuwait

THE LAND OF RISING SUN

Delicious and fun! Come experience

DEPACHIKA

Exclusive Interview: Young highÀyer with feet ¿rmly on ground

Hot Activities for a Cool Area in Tokyo

Japan-Kuwait ties booming Toshihiro TSUJIHARA, Ambassador

Is Japan

Expensive?

Blue LEDs: Joint Invention of Three Japanese-Born Researchers Win Physics Nobel SAGA: Gazing Across the Sea into Japan’s Past

WONDERS OF JAPAN

Japan Automobile Industry

The 44th TOKYO MOTOR SHOW 2015

Latest Technology in Japan Automobile Industry

YUZU: Brightening Japanese Cuisine with a Tangy Fragrance

10 Famous Halal Restaurants You Can Visit in Tokyo

Rice: Japan’s Staple Food and Important Cultural Symbol

Understanding the Yen: Bills & Coins

Shinkansen High-speed Trains Run Safe

Japan: Promising Point of Excellence for Medical Tourism

Motoman Makes History

The seven profound principles of the Samurai we could all learn a lot from

All about Sumo

Sento: Relaxing Japanese Style

Travelogue: Japan a developed and modern nation

JAPANESE CARS

Thriving in Gulf Enjoying a Luxurious RYOKAN STAY The Amazing Wearable Robot

Japanese Pop Culture TO THE NEXT STAGE Health Check: The Cost of Medical Care in Japan

SPECIAL ISSUE

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5 Famous Castles in Japan for Castle Lovers

100

Itsukushima Shrine and the Island of Miyajima

106

Where to shop

110

Asakusa and Mukojima

114

The Real Japan

119

Cosplay

126

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The content and opinions expressed here in are not necessarily those of the publishers. While every efforts is made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, no liablity can be assumed by the publishers for any inaccuracies.

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‘Increasing Services!’ Japanese Vending Machines e-gulfmedia.com

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Issue: 2015

“His

Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah is an exemplary leader. Japan will never forget Kuwaiti’s aid in times of calamities. Kuwait-Japan ties are long-standing.” (See Page 14)

H. E. Takashi ASHIKI Ambassador of Japan to the State of Kuwait

Faisal Motlaq Bdah Bajran chairman

Timeless Relations Dear readers, It is my pleasure to welcome you once again to peruse through this magazine on Japan. Kuwait and Japan have relations that stretch back more than half a century, and ties remain as strong as ever. Of course, Kuwaitis have always been interested in all things Japanese, from cars to comics to culture to cuisine. The Japanese Embassy here has been active in promoting their country, with film screenings, cosplay events and language and other cultural competitions. The embassy also organizes an annual beach cleanup that shows the importance it places on the environment. Japan is a safe, modern and efficient country and I urge Kuwaitis and residents, all of whom love to travel, to put Japan on their itinerary, since the country has a lot to offer for everyone. I hope this issue furthers your knowledge of Japan and brings you closer to this great country.

Happy reading!

Contemporary Japan - 2016

F O R E W O R D Mujahid Iqbal managing editor

Japan: Where Old and New Live in Harmony Dear readers, I am pleased to bring to you another issue of this magazine focusing on Japan and all what it has to offer to visitors and fans. Of course, this magnificent country has a great influence on our everyday lives, from the vehicles we drive, the technology we use, the food we eat and the activities we enjoy.

Japan is a byword for resilience, forgiveness and pacifism, as evidenced from its rise in a relatively short time from the ruins of conflict to a dynamic, progressive and modern nation that we see today. This road has not been easy, but it was due to the perseverance and can-do attitude of the Japanese people that the country has reached such heights today.

In our latest issue, we again bring to you the fun things and beautiful places of Japan, with a special focus on Middle Eastern visitors to the country. Our feature on halal places to eat, sleep and relax will surely be a help to tourists who are particular about these things. We have also highlighted other places to visit and practical things like currency and transport.

I hope you enjoy reading this magazine as much as we enjoyed putting it together!

AL-Rai, Al Ghazali St., Opposite Centerpoint, P.O. Box: 42018, Shuwaikh 70651, Kuwait Tel: (965) 24748903 / 5 / 7 Fax: (965) 24748909 E-mail: imcck@imcck.com www.imcck.com

HAPPENINGS

Kuwait, Japanese ties extraordinary: Deputy FM KUWAIT: Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Sulaiman Al-Jarallah hailed extraordinary bilateral ties with Japan while participating in a national day celebration at the Japanese embassy on Dec 14. In a statement to journalists, Jarallah reminisced on Japanese efforts of liberating Kuwait during the 1990 Iraqi invasion. He also recounted Kuwaiti aid efforts to Japan including the donation of five million barrels of crude oil in the wake of a massive earthquake that struck the country. Jarallah also extolled

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Japanese environmental contributions to Kuwait, saying these efforts are appreciated by the people of Kuwait. Moreover, the Japanese ambassador to Kuwait Takashi ASHIKI expressed admiration of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, calling him an “exemplary leader”. He asserted that Japan would never forget Kuwaiti’s persistent aid in times of calamity, underscoring long-standing Kuwaiti and Japanese ties.

HAPPENINGS Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Kuwaiti minister visits Japan “Kuwait’s participation in this forum demonstrates the country’s attention to our environment, as we have political and military conflict in the Middle East, which harms the environment there,” the minister said. “The military technology is damaging our environment and killing people. We hope, the technology and innovations discussed in this forum will help us change our environment and life better.” During his speech at the ICEF, the minister urged the international community to strive for a world with a healthy environment, more sustainable and free from pollution, saying, “Replacing the use of gas and harmful chemicals with safer alternatives is one step countries may take to improve on climate changes and reduce pollution.”

uwait’s Minister of Education Dr Bader Al-Essa visited Japan in October to attend key international forums focusing on science, technology and climate change issues. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) following the Innovation for Cool Earth Forum (ICEF) in Tokyo, Dr Essa expressed concern over negative impact of political and military conflict on the environment in the Middle East.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

“Many countries have responded to repeated calls for a healthy, sustainable environment and reducing the negative effects that industries impact on the climate. On the other hand, some countries contribute to environmental pollution, destruction of the climate and changes in the earth’s temperature, by allowing industries to continue with poor practices and protocols,” the minister, who headed the Kuwaiti delegation, pointed out.

HAPPENINGS

The ICEF conference gathered more than 1,000 researchers, business leaders, and policymakers from around the world to share a vision and establish partnerships for lasting global reduction in greenhouse gases through innovative low-carbon technologies. The Kuwaiti delegation included Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education Dr Hamed Al-Azemi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education Dr Haitham Al-Athari, Secretary General of the Private Universities Council

Dr Habib Abul, Director General of Applied Education and Training Dr Ahmad Al-Athari and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Kuwait University Dr Firyal Bou-Rabee. Meanwhile, at the Science and Technology in Society Forum held earlier in the western city of Kyoto, Essa underscored the importance of education system to enhance social innovation and sustainability in Kuwait. In a speech at the session titled “Social Innovation for Sustainability,” the minister

said highly educated Kuwaitis, institutions, universities and research centers spanning in different aspects of science and technology always believe that education system is a main factor that increases social innovation and sustainability. He also highlighted an integrated modernization program jointly launched by the Ministry of Education and the World Bank earlier this year, which is designed to develop the nation’s education system, especially science and technology.”

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Kuwait Ambassador to Japan visits Fukushima region

uwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman AlOtaibi visited Fukushima in the Tohoku region, accompanied by a number of accredited ambassadors in Japan, on Oct 26. The visit was organized by the Japanese foreign ministry in cooperation with the Fukushima regional council. The Kuwaiti Embassy said in a statement that Otaibi met during the visit with Fukushima Governor Masao Uchibori and Fukushima local officials. The statement

Contemporary Japan - 2016

noted that the ambassador also toured the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fukushima agriculture and technology center, various traditional locations, including a high school. Uchibori expressed pleasure for the visiting delegation and praised Kuwaitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contribution to Fukushima in the aftermath of the tsunami tragedy in 2011. Otaibi expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and the meaningful tour which highlighted the cultural and historic aspects of Fukushima.

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HAPPENINGS

Annual beach cleanup commences

Japanese Society’s Beach Cleaning Campaign at Shuwaikh Beach The name of this campaign “Operation Turtle” came from wishes that turtles would be able to come back on the beach of Kuwait again to lay eggs.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

KUWAIT: The Kuwait Environmental Protection Society and the Japanese Society in Kuwait have jointly launched the 9th annual beach cleanup campaign.The Environment Public Authority, public schools, environment police, medical emergency, Kuwait municipality, the ministry of electricity and water and young volunteers are involved in this year’s beach cleanup. The annual campaign entitled: “Operation Marine Turtles” has attracted a number of stakeholders and Kuwaiti and expatriate volunteers of different ages, sharing the same goal of protecting

HAPPENINGS

environment and marine life, Kuwait Environmental Protection Society Chairman Wajdan Al-Eqabtold KUNA.The campaign is primarily intended to provide a congenial atmosphere for the reproduction of marine turtles, and to boost the awareness of participants and society about beach cleanup and necessary cooperation between Kuwait and communities living in the country, she added.She thanked the Japanese Society in Kuwait for participation in the event. On his part, Japanese Ambassador in Kuwait Toshihiro Tsujihara said Japan stands side by side with Kuwait in the field of environment protection, and is keen to share its experience with Kuwait in terms of beach cleanup and waste treatment.The ambassador urged all categories of the Kuwaiti society to take part in such fruitful and useful activities.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Japanese embassy organises Speech Contest

he third Japanese Speech Contest was held in May at the auditorium of the National Library of Kuwait co-organized by the Japanese community in Kuwait, Kuwait University and the Embassy of Japan. The contest aims to improve the speaking and presentation skills of non-Japanese learners of the Japanese language, giving them an opportunity to demonstrate their ability. Most participants were Kuwaiti nationals who have learnt Japanese in various manners. The event is also a good occasion to encourage Kuwaitis for learning more the Japanese language. The contest was open for all audience.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Embassy participates in Kuwait Book Fair The The Japanese Embassy took part in the Kuwait Book Fair at the Kuwait Fairgrounds in Mishref from Nov 18 to 28, 2015. The renowned Kinokuniya bookstore

Contemporary Japan - 2016

participated in the last two days with the embassy in the fair. The embassy also held an origami workshop for two days by famous artist Komiya Hajime at the fair.

HAPPENINGS Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Japanese Diwaniya with Plamo cosplayers

In collaboration with Plamo Q8 Club, the

the Middle East. Instead of being an observer

Japanese Embassy invited Kuwaiti cosplayers for

participant, this year Kuwait was an official

a diwaniya at the ambassadorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence. Last

participant in WCS 2015. The cosplayers shared

summer, Kuwait attended the World Cosplay

their adventurous experience, latest trends and

Summit in Nagoya as the first country from

fashions of Japan through their presentation.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

PLAMO’s

FujiCon HAPPENINGS Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Japanese Embassy officials visit boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; school The Japanese Embassyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural section paid a visit to the Al-

the children in their break time and saw the teachers having fun

Sadeem school for boys. The two-hour visit saw a tour around

with the pupils. They even set up a Japanese corner to make the

the school facilities to get an idea about education in Kuwait,

boys learn about a new country. It was good visit.

teaching methods and regulations. Embassy officials joined

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Japanese Embassy and NCCAL hold exhibition by Hiroto Rakusho The Japanese Embassy in cooperation with the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) organized an exhibition at Funoon Hall in Dahiyat Abdullah Al-Salem, for the first time in the Middle East.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Rakusho, a renowned artist, uses traditional techniques in a modern style, using gold sheets, a material thinner than paper by hammering gold into fragile sheets.

HAPPENINGS

GUST opens ‘Living Kuwait’ exhibition

he Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) Kuwait held an exhibition titled ‘Festival of Living Kuwait’ inside its campus in collaboration with different embassies in the country. GUST President Prof Donald Bates, in his inaugural address, said: “This exhibition ‘Living Kuwait’ is a wonderful thing because students get an opportunity to get exposed to different cultures, societies and different ways of thinking and living. This is part of the enrichment exercise the university is obligated to provide to its students because education outside the

classroomenriches the learning environment,” he said. The embassies of Japan, India, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Russia, and China participate in the exhibition. Dr Salah Eddine Arkadan, Assistant Professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at GUST University, said the exhibition acts as a bridge between different cultures. It will be quite beneficial for the students as participating embassies showcase different cultures and civilizations from their countries.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Origami workshop held at the embassy The Embassy of Japan organized an origami workshop at the embassy. guests participated in the workshop, hosted by famous origami artist Komiya Hajime, who presented the art of origami to participants.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Everyone enjoyed making shapes by themselves with Komiya. They started with a paper copter, followed by heart ring. The girls had fun with Komiya sensei in a very lovely atmosphere.

HAPPENINGS

Origami workshop held at Joon School The Embassy of Japan organized an origami workshop at the Joon elementary school for girls. Principal of the school Hanan Al-Matrouk, students, school staff and guests participated in the workshop, hosted by famous origami artist Komiya Hajime, who presented the art of origami to participants.

Komiya. They started with a paper copter, followed by heart ring, and finally with mini items that all the girls and some teachers made, as Komiya gathered all the pieces to make a bigger unit and dedicated this unit to the school. The girls had fun with Komiya sensei in a very lovely atmosphere.

Everyone enjoyed making shapes by themselves with

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Embassy of Japan holds reunion reception for Kuwaiti students

he Embassy of Japan in Kuwait held

The Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Mr.

students and are open to Kuwaiti students

a reception for Kuwaiti students

Toshihiro

every year.

who were educated in Japan as well

the reunion said, “we sincerely hope and

as other students who plan to pursue their

welcome more Kuwaiti students to study in

The guidelines in enrolling in scholarships

education in Japan together with Japanese

Japan and get acquainted with our society

programs for the current academic year

students learning the Arabic language at

and culture, because culture knowledge

is scheduled to be announced soon in-

Kuwait University on 24th March, 2015 at

and exchange of each other’s cultures is the

cooperation with the Ministry of Higher

the residence of H.E. Toshihiro TSUJIHARA

ideal bridge in communicating for mutual

Education in the State of Kuwait.

the Ambassador of Japan to Kuwait.

understanding.”

TSUJIHARA

commenting

The embassy of Japan provides scholarships

The annual reunion reception which has

The Japanese scholarships program was first

to all interested Kuwaiti students sponsors

been held since 2005 has been organized

initiated and launched in 1973 by the Arabian

by the Japanese Government every year.

to encourage and strengthen the bond

Oil Company in collaboration with the

of relationship among all students who

Japanese Government’s scholarships. Two

studied, intend to study in Japan and staff of

categories of scholarships were introduced

the Embassy of Japan in Kuwait.

for

Contemporary Japan - 2016

undergraduate

and

postgraduate

HAPPENINGS

Wusta school students visit embassy Students of Wusta girls’ school visited the Japanese Embassy to learn more about Japan and its culture. (PEDVV\ RI¿FLDOV ZHOFRPHG WKH VWXGHQWV DQG LQWHUDFWHG ZLWK WKHP

Contemporary Japan - 2016

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Gazing at the contemporary world â&#x20AC;Ś

Japanese photography from 1970s to present The Japan Foundation held a Japanese Contemporary Photography exhibitionin Kuwait at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre, Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah from Jan 23-29, 2016. The exhibition showcased 76 photographs by 23 photographers, showing the myriad changes that took place in Japan between the period of rapid economic growth and the early 21stcentury. The Japan Foundation is a specializedpublic organization founded in1972 with the purpose of promoting international understanding through cultural exchange. It has carried outprograms in a variety of fields, engagingin international dialogue througharts and cultural exchanges, promoting Japanese language education overseas and supporting Japanese studies and intellectual exchange. Inorder to

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Contemporary Japan - 2016

enhance the understanding of Japanese arts and culture through thevisual arts, the Foundation collaborates with overseas museums on a widerange of exhibitions from traditionalto contemporary arts. The new traveling exhibition, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gazing at the Contemporary World: Japanese Photography from the 1970sto the Presentâ&#x20AC;? is an overview ofthe diverse photographic expression that has emerged in Japan since the 1970s. In its final form, the exhibition included 76 photographs by 23 photographers. The show was composed of two sections. The first, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Changing Society,â&#x20AC;? focused on human beingsas members of society. The second, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Changing Landscapes,â&#x20AC;? looked at cities, the suburbs and nature.

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HAPPENINGS

Kuwait, Japan enjoy strong investment ties DUBAI: Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) Director General Sheikh Dr Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah said that Kuwaiti-Japanese relations in the fields of investment and economy are “strong”. The remark was made during a meeting held between officials from KDIPA and Japan Foreign Trade Council (JFTC) in Dubai. The meeting followed a previous meeting that was held in the Japanese capital earlier in March, Sheikh Meshaal said to KUNA. The meeting tackled Kuwait’s investment laws, investment opportunities and benefits provided for foreign companies, most importantly, the

exemption of corporate income tax and the exemption of customs tariff. In addition, the meeting shed light on investment opportunities in the State of Kuwait, giving example of foreign companies that have been successful in the country. The meeting was attended by Kuwait Consul General in Dubai and UAE’s Northern Emirates Theyab Al-Rashidi, KDIPA Assistant Director General for Business Mohamed Yousef Yaqoub, KDIPA Head of Licensing and Investment Registry Sheikh Abdullah Sabah Humoud AlSabah and KDIPA Head of Investment Promotion Bader Al-Jeddi.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

HAPPENINGS

Japan dominate Asian Judo Championships Japan won the Asian Judo Championships 2015 in both men and women’s competitions held at the Qadisiyah Club Indoor Stadium in Hawally. The Japanese topped standings with 16 medals — eight gold, three silver and five bronze. They were followed by South Korea in second place with 12 medals and Mongolia third with eight medals in the three day tournament. The tournament was the 22nd edition, held from May 13-15, 2015. The men’s team competition involved Japan, Uzbekistan, Korea, Taiwan, Iran, Pakistan and Kazakhstan. The women’s team competition involved Japan, Korea, Mongolia and Taiwan. The men’s competitions involved the heavyweight (+100kg), half heavy

Contemporary Japan - 2016

weight (-100kg), extra lightweight (60kg), half lightweight (-66kg), lightweight (-73kg), half middleweight (-81kg) and middleweight (-90kg) divisions. The women competed in extra lightweight (-48kg), half lightweight (-52kg), lightweight (-57kg), half middleweight (-63kg), middleweight (-70kg), half heavyweight (-78kg) and heavyweight (+78kg) divisions. Japan’s gold medal haul included the half heavyweight division, half middleweight, half lightweight, half heavyweight for women, lightweight for women as well as extra lightweight for women. The President of Kuwaiti and Asian judo bodies, Obaid Al-Enezi, commended the high-level performances shown by

the judokas, especially those from Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Speaking to reporters after the award ceremony, Enezi said it was hard for Arab teams to compete with the Asian judokas because they needed long-term preparations, financial support and holding further training camps abroad. Enezi, who commended the Public Authority for Youth and Sports for its support in holding the Asian Championships, called for increasing financial support for the Kuwait Judo Association, which has participated in eight out of fifteen competitions every year including the Grand Prix and Grand Slam. (Source: Arab Times)

HAPPENINGS

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Contemporary Japan - 2016

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HAPPENINGS

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KeyMission 360 Nikon enters the immersive action camera category with the introduction of its latest innovation, the new KeyMission 360 Built on the technical excellence of optical and image-processing technologies that Nikon is known for, the KeyMission 360, a wearable action camera capable of recording 360Â° video in 4K UHD, is the first to be introduced. Creating an experience that is true to life and in all degrees, the camera provides the absolute imaging experience for its users. With an image sensor and lens combination on two opposite sides of the camera, captured images are combined in-camera

to create a single realistic and high definition true 360Â° image output. Ready to go on the striking journalistic experiences, noteworthy lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milestones, or even soul-searching journeys, the camera is waterproof to the depths of 30 meters even without a separate housing. It also measures up reliably against dust, shock, and low temperatures, with its design ready to facilitate a wide spectrum of outdoor and leisure activities. Completing the design also includes an electronic vibration reduction mechanism, which is enabled via applications during playback, for a reduction of the effects of camera shake.

SnapBridge The new SnapBridge connectivity places Nikon cameras in the center of the smart devices ecosystem. Powered by the breakthrough Bluetooth low energy technology, SnapBridge enables seamless sharing of moments in real time SnapBridge via Bluetooth low energy connectivity is a breakthrough innovation offering always-on wireless connectivity with smart devices. Building on Nikonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage of pushing the envelope for innovation

in the imaging field, this move raises the bar yet again as the Bluetooth-powered connectivity of SnapBridge provides photographers with a wealth of convenient, connected services. This technology signals Nikonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus on building up innovations for its software, effectively establishing the camera as part of the ecosystem of personal devices. SnapBridge will be a standard feature in almost every new Nikon camera from 2016 onwards.

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Contemporary Japan - 2016

PROFILE

ASM Shipping: At your Service For more than 50 years Abdul Samad Marafie Sons General Trading & Shipping Company, otherwise known as ASM Shipping, has been one of the leading shipping and freight forwarding companies in Kuwait. We are shipping agents in Kuwait for Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd for the past 50 years. We provide door to door services. A list of our main activities includes: t t t t t t t t t t

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In all these areas we are well known for the excellence of the services we provide and indeed we are committed to anticipating the needs of our clients. To do so, we continuously train and develop our personnel, who include the most professional men and women in the business of transportation. Our goal is to keep abreast of the latest developments in our industry so that we can both sustain and improve the quality of the services and procedures we offer our customers. ASM Shipping has excellent relationships with shipping lines and customs authorities and we are one of the best known companies in the field of logistics. Our well-tested net of correspondents enables us to operate on a worldwide basis as a shipping company. 42

Contemporary Japan - 2016

We organize shipping and discharging, including the issue of the documents required for transit, forwarding and customs clearance. Our ability to do so is firmly founded on our organization strengths, which include our: t t t t t t t t t t

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It is these strengths that enable us to carry our policy of offering our principals and customers top-quality services in a timely and efficient manner that assists them in improving their foreign trade operations through the provision of shipping facilities and services that ensure the reliable transport of cargoes to and from all the parts of the world. In our business, superior communications are the keys to success. They allow us to provide rates, sales leads, pre-alerts and advices and to trace goods quickly and confidently. For this reason our customs brokerage, administration and accounting procedures are fully computerized. Assuring you of the most professional service at all times.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

highflyer with feet firmly on ground

INTERVIEW BY: MUJAHID IQBAL

Young

Young achiever Ahmad M Al-Faris is the Chairman of the Kuwait Association of Accountants and Auditors. He believes Kuwait-Japan ties are on firm ground, especially business relations. He spoke to Mujahid Iqbal about his life and work and offered his opinions on the issues facing the country. Some excerpts: Q: Tell us something about your family, professional and academic background? I was born and grew up by in a family with a career in accounting. Everyone in the family is either working in or graduated from the accounting field. My father Mishari Al-Faris is the former Chairman of Kuwait Accountants and Auditors Association and had a great role and influence on me personally to choose this field of work, in addition to being one of my biggest supporters and mentors. As for academic study and educational qualifications, I graduated from Kuwait University in 2000 with a BSc in Accounting and in 2006 got a Higher Diploma in Business Administration from Maastricht School. In 2009, I obtained the degree of Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Maastricht School, and in 2010, I 44

Contemporary Japan - 2016

also got a Higher Diploma in Islamic finance from Kuwait University. With regards to my professional career, I started working in 2002 as a bank inspector in the control sector in the Central Bank of Kuwait, until 2006. I then moved to Kuwait Finance House (KFH) to serve as assistant risk manager in the risk management department until 2014, when I became in charge of governance administration in the regulatory sector at the same bank. I am currently working as the director of commitment at the Kuwaiti telecommunications company VIVA since 2014. Q: Kuwait aims to be a regional financial hub. Tell us how this can be achieved? His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-

Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has set a strategic vision of Kuwait to turn it into a financial and commercial hub by 2035. Executive authorities in the country, represented by the Supreme Council for Planning and Development, have accordingly developed medium-term development plans for five years to achieve this vision on the ground by relying mainly on the massive financial resources of the country for the implementation of infrastructure projects that will raise the rating of the country in the field of economic competitiveness and the issuance of economic legislation that would achieve economic reform in the country. Q: What can Kuwait do to diversify its sources of income? Kuwait has developed medium-term development plans designed to accelerate

economic reform in the country by decreasing total dependence on oil and stimulating other economic sectors, most important of which are industry and tourism, by encouraging the local private sector, which has extensive experience in driving the economy and focusing on high-yield industries, including petrochemical industries and the financial sector, particularly since Kuwait has a welldeveloped banking system and large banks that enjoy worldwide reputation, not to mention the fact that the country is one of the top initiators in the field of Islamic banking. Q: How you view present government economic policies? in accounting and auditing profession and research and studies in this area and despite my great love of history, reading these kinds of books is now a luxury I cannot enjoy because of the lack of time and permanent preoccupations. Q: Is there any mentor or role model in your life? I have always considered my father as my idol in life.

The development plans of medium and short-term are based on the development and training of the Kuwaiti human element in addition to stimulating other economic sectors like oil and tourism industry, and activating the role of the local private sector, especially since geographically Kuwait enjoys a very important location that can be relied upon in terms of diversification of the economy as a conduit between the East and West. Q: In these times of regional crises, what role can Kuwait play diplomatically? The permanent message of Kuwait has always focused mainly on the humanitarian aspects, fighting against poverty and helping people in need, regardless of who they are. This made Kuwait enjoy the respect of all organizations, agencies and countries around the world. It is through this role that Kuwait has always sought to promote peace and global security at all levels and through being a member state in the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Q: What should be done to make Kuwait more attractive to tourists? Stimulation of the tourism sector depends mainly on stimulating the domestic private sector and granting it a vital role in steering the wheel of the national economy in all fields, including the tourism sector, where the process of attracting tourists to the country needs to invest in multiple large development projects such as the development of Kuwait International Airport and increasing its capacity as well as construction of new hotels, taking into consideration that the tourism season in the country is limited to a few months of the year only because of the harsh climate and the nature of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desert conditions. Q: Which is your favorite book on personal and professional development that you would recommend others to read? The continuous development of the accounting profession has obliged me mainly to pursue professional books. I am a keen follower of the latest developments

Q: How would you like to define happiness and success? In my own view, I believe that volunteer work and a permanent quest to help others is one of the most important reasons that lead to happiness and success. Self-achievement is accomplished through seeking to provide value-added service and to leave an imprint in his community. Here comes success and therefore happiness, as the two concepts are linked to each other. Q: Would you like to share with our readers some of the details of your exceptionally brilliant professional career that led up to your present position as the young chairman of KAAA? No one can describe his personal efforts or successes. In most cases, people are the ones to talk about or evaluate othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; success or failure. Occupying the presidency of the Kuwaiti Accountants and Auditors Association as its youngest chairman was not accidental but was the result of great efforts and great love for change of an institution that I love so much, in addition to the allocation of a huge amount of time. Q: Is KAAA affiliated with any local or international bodies? Kuwait Accountants and Auditors Association is a member of the International Federation of Accountants based in Washington DC. It also enjoys the Contemporary Japan - 2016

he works in. Q: Are you satisfied with present educational system? What changes do you suggest to make it more effective and useful? In Kuwait, everyone is calling for improving the level of education and raising the efficiency of graduates as well as keeping education outcomes up with the needs of the market. In this regard, Kuwait collaborates with the World Bank in preparing studies related to the field of education and the development of the educational sector in the country and transform education from education that delivers information to education that builds innovation. Kuwait is in dire need of its human resources, which is considered as the real source of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth, and not oil. To develop this resource, we must develop education, especially if we take into account that Kuwait is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest spenders on the educational sector worldwide in relation to its population.

membership of the Federation of Arab Accountants and Auditors based in Cairo, in addition to the membership of the Accounting and Auditing Organization of the Gulf Cooperation Council situated in Riyadh. Finally, it is a member of Accounting Authority for Islamic Financial Institutions, based in Manama. Q: How important is the work that the organization does? Kuwait Accountants and Auditors Association is a public interest entity that aims to provide services to accountants and auditors of Kuwait as well as provision of consulting and technical opinion of public authorities. The most important activities of the association are in the field of training and professional development for practitioners of the accounting profession in addition to its role in providing all aspects that benefit the national economy and permanent follow-up of developments relating to the accounting profession at the international and regional level. Q: Tell us something about the major areas of KAAAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, challenges and its vision to enhance and regulate the business affairs of the country? Through our communication with various government agencies, we seek to develop the national economy and provide technical opinions that contribute to the prosperity and progress of Kuwait. In this respect, the association has participated with its 46

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professional opinion regarding several laws and executive regulations of governmental agencies, and continues to communicate with various government agencies and the private sector to discuss all the issues leading to the elevation of the State of Kuwait. Q: Business is a complex phenomenon, involving several sectors such as management, finance, HR and marketing, etc. Which of these are of greater importance in your opinion? Business is a unique phenomenon that cannot succeed but through the interaction of all these ingredients with each other, whether administration, marketing, physical or human capital. However, I am a supporter of the theory that the human element in any organization is the most important element in its success. Q: Why is it that there is a desperate shortage of team spirit in some people, while they are individually strong and bold, when they get together, they are often locked in bitter rivalries and disputes, which proves destructive for the individuals as well as group? I think the question is a hypothetical one, but many administrators and even ordinary employees need to be trained in the field of social networking. A manager for example, even if he is successful and has a leading character, still needs the ability to communicate with his staff in the most effective manner that serves the institution

Q: Besides being a highly successful professional, you have keen interest in writing articles in newspapers and in-house magazine. How you can find adequate time for all such diversified activities? How do you balance between work and recreation? The answer to this situation is the proper organization. When one organizes his time properly, he can find time to do what he wants. Q: What are the challenges and opportunities in your industry/sector? The main challenge in my field is the continuous development and following up the latest global developments in the field of accounting, especially since it has a wide range that carries with it great potential for creativity and development. Q: What steps do you take to fulfill your corporate social responsibilities? Support and continuous communication with the rest of the official authorities and public benefit entities in the country to reach the goals of any public utility association, which is to achieve prosperity and elevation of our generous country Kuwait. Q: Is there any message, advice or input that you would like to share other than the issues already discussed? Had it lasted for others, it would not have reached you.

Japan Automobile Industry Japanese makers Toyota played a major role. It launched Toyota Prius in ‘97 and since then the car has sold millions of units across the world and has its new variants including a compact Prius c, the larger Prius v and Prius Plug-in.

OVERVIEW

apan, notably known as “the land of Rising Sun” is famous for its values of perfection and creativity. Imagination and enthusiasm for work is truly expressed by Japanese products, be it cars, electronic, machinery or any other field. Japanese automobile industry started its journey with the launch of small cars. These small cars featured very small engines (from 360cc to 600cc) which kept taxes very low as compared to large cars. A huge demand for cars in the country brought a boom in the Japan›s automobile market. Rapidly rising domestic demand and the expansion of Japanese car companies into foreign markets in ‘70s further accelerated the growth.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Every Japanese automaker contributed in a way that helped the country›s automobile industry to reach the pinnacle. The country is the home of top automakers such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki and many others. Japanese makers always try to make a place in the heart of buyers by offering the most comfortable and efficient vehicles. With every model launched by Japanese makers, they have proved that anything is possible. Earlier, reliability and luxury did not go hand in hand, but the introduction of Toyota’s Lexus LS 400 changed all of that. Even now, twenty-five years later, the car still hasb the global repute that it deserves. When the world was looking for a funsporty vehicle, Nissan launched Fairlady Z or Datsun 240Z (in some markets). In bringing the hybrid technology mainstream,

While thinking about Japanese cars one thinks about reliability and great quality. Japanese makers have achieved popularity simply because they always do well on all promises made. Time and again with their models, Japanese makers have proved that they are better than other makers. The main focus of Japanese makers is always towards customer›s satisfaction. Japanese makers even teach their staff to work with the customer in mind in order to develop a quality product. The huge amount of money is being spent by automakers to upgrade their technology. Notonly new vehicles, even used automobile sector of the country is famous among masses across the world. People are willing to buy a used vehicle as even though the vehicle is used, but still its overall condition is excellent and are available at practical and affordable prices. These vehicles are popular for less engine trouble and their superb quality and durability. Every year millions of used cars are exported worldwide owing to the fact that Japan is the main source of second hand cars to manygin. net regions like Africa, Asia, Middle East, Oceania etc. Used Car Auctions are held in major cities of Japan making more than 50,000 cars available everyday for bidding by the

dealers on behalf of the customers. Japan Auto Auctions are very popular and unique in their own sense. The quality inspection, competitive prices, large inventory and easy to purchase procedure makes these Auctions stand out and popular among the used car customers all across the globe.

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The grow thorth erise of Japanese automobile industry wasnâ&#x20AC;şt quick. Japan started with introducing small cars and with improvement in every vehicle it eventually became one of the top automobile industries in the world. Letâ&#x20AC;şs look into the history, present and the future of the everevolving Japanese automobile industry.

HISTORY

apanese automobile industry is one of the well-known and largest industries in the world. Japanese automakers always focus on product enhancement, technological innovation, and safety improvement. By manufacturing vehicles that are reliable, safe and tough, Japanese makers are ruling the hearts of millions. To know about the success of Japan automobile industry, letâ&#x20AC;şs learn from where they have started their journey. The first entirely Japanese made-car was manufactured by Komanosuke Uchiyama in 1907. In 1904, Torao Yamaha built the first Japanese-made bus, with the seating capacity of 10 people. After the end of World War I, large numbers

of companies with the support of the government and the Imperial Army started manufacturing military trucks. That eventually resulted in starting of automobile companies such as Toyota, Nissan and marked the beginning of Japanese automobile industry. Toyota Jido Shokki, a weaving company founded its automobile department in the 1933 and named it Toyota. In the same year, Nissan was established by a growing company named Nihon Sangyo. During World War II, the automobile department of Japan was mainly in the production of military and industrial trucks and buses. After the WW II, Japanese companies were allowed to produce only a

limited number of trucks. Toyota during that period lost almost all its assets and went bankrupt. During Korean War, contracts were given to the company for military vehicles and repairs. This helped Toyota to survive the crises. During 1955, the production of cars by Japanese makers increased. At the same time, the restriction was imposed on importation of vehicles by the government in Japan. Since the Japanâ&#x20AC;şs car market at that particular time was not very vast, thus many countries did not oppose the restriction. Under the guidance of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, the Japanes e automobile industry started to flourish. In 1953, the numbers of vehicles manufactured were 10,000, but the number Contemporary Japan - 2016

reached to 20,000 in 1955. By the end of 1950s, Japan began to export vehicles to different countries every year, but the number included only few hundred. In the year 1961, for the very first time, the number of used cars exported achieved 10,000 units. And by `70, Japan started to export around million of vehicles across many countries around the world. In the beginning of the export process, Japanese vehicles were not so popular, but eventually due to their superb quality and low prices, these vehicles began to make their place. Consequently, the 1973 oil crises increased the popularity of Japanese cars in the global market as vehicles developed by them have smaller engine and were fuel-efficient.

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During 1970s popularity of Japanese vehicles increased in Britain and U.S. Mitsubishi and Honda were popular Japanese brands in the U.S., while in Britain, Nissan became a popular maker. During this period, the export of the car was at peak. By manufacturing cost-effective and affordable vehicles, till the year 2000 Japan became one ofthe largest vehicle manufacturing nations across the world. Even though with the strong competition from South Korea, China, India, and many other countries, Japan car industry continued to thrive. After the 1990s, during Japanâ&#x20AC;şs long recession period, the automobile industry continues to maintain its international competitiveness. This was due to Japanese automakers production approaches and development plans. Japanese makers are leading in every aspect of automobiles, may it be technology, sales or production. Around six out of ten leading car makers in the world are Japanese makers. Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Suzuki, Mitsubishi are few popular Japanese car makers. Japanese automakers started from the very beginning to reach a place where they are. The major automaker, Toyota Motor Corporation started as a division of Toyota Automatic Loom Works for commercial weaving applications in Koromo. Later on the company was hired by the Japanese government for manufacturing cost effective cars for military purposes. For the pastth reed ecad es, Toyo tahas manufactured 3 million units a year in Japan only. However, overseas production has grown to 5 million units annually from 200,000 units in the 1980s. Likewise, Nissan Motor Company Ltd, Mitsubishi, Suzuki and others are also major automobile producers in Japan. The Japan automobile industry is known across the world for its innovative ideas, attractive designs, quality and use of latest technologies. 50

Contemporary Japan - 2016

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From modest origins, today the Japanese auto industry has grown into one of the most respected and popular manufacturing industries in the world. The increase in demand for Japanese vehicles has increased the competitiona mong vehic l e manufacturers. There is no doubt that

Japanese vehicles are clearly leading in the race to capitalize on the automobile market of various countries.

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Mazda Unleashes Skyactiv Technology

Another Century, Another Innovation

The streak of defiance and adventure that runs through Mazda cars has its roots in the heritage of Hiroshima, Mazda’s home in Japan. Hiroshima rose from the ashes of nuclear destruction. Refusing to stop dreaming of a better future, the people in the region have overcome daunting challenges over and over again. The spirit of courage and grit that has underpinned Hiroshima’s successful rebuilding has continued to be an inspiration to Mazda. At Mazda, everyone is ready for any challenge they may face on the road to creating great cars. Mazda continues to break the barriers of convention as it takes on the challenge of creating cars previously unimagined.

SKYACTIV-G 2.0/ SKYACTIV-G 2.5 New-Generation Gasoline Engine with Improved Fuel Efficiency and Torque High-efficiency SKYACTIV-G direct-injection petrol engines are your passport to a world of driving that is both exciting and eco-friendly, SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engines do more than just set new standards for fuel efficiency and emissions control, they also actively enhance the Zoom-Zoom performance. To accomplish this, Mazda engineers achieved a technical breakthrough to deliver an extraordinary compression ratio of 13.0:1 while suppressing the knock usually caused by such high compression. Taken together, the technical breakthroughs in SKYACTIV-G engines realize an astonishing increase in fuel efficiency – up to 15% - as well as more satisfying everyday driving thanks to the ample torque available at low- to mid-engine speeds. 52

Contemporary Japan - 2016

SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY Mazda’s journey of persistence, passion and innovation has continued into the new century. Blazing a trail again, Mazda developed the SKYACTIV family of breakthrough technologies that are unleashing the untapped potential of gasoline and diesel cars. The name SKYACTIV has its origins in the term “The SKY is the limit” and it expresses the spirit that is driving Mazda engineers in their development work. They developed SKYACTIV with a belief in unlimited possibilities.

SKYACTIV-DRIVE Perfect Mix of Direct Feel, Smooth Transmission and Superior Fuel Efficiency at Low Speeds SKYACTIV-DRIVE is designed to deliver an ideal mix of “direct feel,” “smooth transmission” and “fuel economy at low speeds.” The various transmission systems prevailing in different markets each have their own strengths and weaknesses. Mazda has realized the best of all worlds by creating the “ideal automatic transmission” that excels across the board. The lockup range of more than 80% helps to create the sort of direct feel that is usually the mark of a manual transmission.

SKYACTIV-BODY Light, Rigid and Robust Body that Ensures Safe and Joyful Driving The SKYACTIV-BODY is engineered to achieve two conflicting aims: lighter weight with better safety performance and increased rigidity. It‘s achieved through innovative engineering, and optimized structures and materials. In total, SKYACTIV-BODY is 30% more rigid, lighter, and able to meet the world‘s most demanding crash safety tests, at the same time as giving better handling thanks to its enhanced rigidity.

SKYACTIV-CHASSIS Lightweight Chassis that Delivers Driving Pleasure and Comfort The SKYACTIV-CHASSIS delivers even more of Mazda‘s famous feeling of oneness between car and driver. Total re-engineering of the basics of suspension and steering systems achieved both lighter weight and superior rigidity.

About KAICO (Al Shaya & Al Sagar): KAICO is the exclusive distributor in Kuwait for MAZDA cars since

is also the exclusive distributor for numerous other automotive

1969. KAICO was established in 1936 and is jointly owned by Al-Shaya and Al-Sagar families with over 79 years of collective automotive experience in marketing, sales, parts and service and has integrated all its operations to maximize market penetration. KAICO

brands including Peugeot, Geely, Eicher, Royal Enfield, Michelin, BF Goodrich, Mobil. KAICO’s business activities also cover a Leasing and Tenders division and Used Cars.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

All-new Nissan Maxima 2016 from Nissan Al Babtain the most dependent vehicles.

Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co, the exclusive agent of Nissan vehicles in Kuwait, unveiled the new generation of Nissan Maxima, which presents a revolution in the region. The completely redesigned 8th generation model is the sportiest most powerful Maxima ever. Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co held the launching ceremony of the new Nissan Maxima 2016 at its showroom located at Al Rai in Nov 2015, which was attended by the members of the board of Al Babtain Group and media representatives. On this occasion, Mohammed Shalaby, COO, Al Babtain Group said: “The totally new model of Nissan Maxima is the ideal choice for the passionate drivers due to its unique features on the roads in its category. It set new criteria with its creative design and great performance in addition to the modern technology of the large sedan vehicles”. The attendees praised the popular Nissan Maxima in Kuwait, for its new and different design of the previous generation equipped with new technology that makes it well deserved to rank on top of the sedan vehicles category. Maxima has been in the leading position for many years, and is one of 54

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Shalaby added saying that: “The new Nissan Maxima with its all new design is one of the most significant in its category as it’s powered with sports performance, which results in a mixture beating all levels”. Shalabi also spoke about the systematic efforts of the Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co, in presenting its promotions and services to preserve its leading position among the car agents in Kuwait.

appearance. Inside, the Nissan Maxima’s premium class-above, bespoke interior is anchored by a driver’s cockpit that rivals luxury vehicles.

The high performance, top-end sedan will support Nissan’s ambitious business target. Nissan expects the all-new Nissan Maxima 2016 will command a 12 percent share in the E-segment in the GCC, with a goal of selling around 7,000 vehicles, an increase of more than 70 percent in sales compared to 2014.

The new vehicle was developed under the inspiration of the Blue Angels at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola – Florida, United States. It holds a specific style inspired by the ‘jet fighter’ styling theme and ergonomic layout.

Key Features in the All New Nissan Maxima 2016:

The futuristic appearance is finished with large dual exhaust chrome tailpipe finishers and 18-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels. The Nissan Maxima SR adds 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels that use a unique diamond-cut machined finish.

Aura Nissan Maxima’s styling showcases Nissan’s new design language - including V-Motion front end, signature boomerang lights, kick-up C-pillars and unique floating roof

The Nissan Maxima’s totally redesigned interior is anchored by a “command centre”

driver’s cockpit and a premium bespoke style crafted execution. The console also features luxurious padding on the sides with contrasted stitching. A new Display Commander control on the console allows fingertip control of the center display as befitting a premium sport sedan. The Nissan Maxima’s interior execution was a strong focus from the onset of development, with the goal of offering an interior that truly rivals luxury vehicles. It offers genuine

stitching on the instrument panel, doors and console, available ambient lighting, available premium leather seating surfaces with diamond-quilted inserts, unique faceted finishers and a sporty D-shaped (flat-bottom) steering wheel. The all-new Nissan Maxima 2016’s comfort is inspired by Nissan’s ‘Zero Gravity Seats’ design with added foam topper pad for initial softness and long-term comfort that consists of acoustic laminated glass (windshield and front side glass), and Active Noise Cancellation System for a quieter cabin. As with the exterior, interior colors were carefully considered to fit with Maxima’s exclusive sports-premium personality.

Performance In a number of aspects the Nissan Maxima’s performance substantially eclipses market performance and is on a par with many sports cars, moving it closer to its big brother - the Nissan GT-R. The Nissan Maxima’s 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 has been redesigned with more than 60 percent new parts (compared to the previous generation 3.5-liter V6). With 300 horsepower, the Nissan Maxima has a high specific output of 85.7 horsepower/liter. The revised engine helps it achieve an anticipated 15 percent increase in highway fuel economy to an EPA estimated 30 miles per gallon.

Complementing the revised powerplant is a new, performance-oriented Xtronic transmission featuring a wider ratio range, which allows for stronger acceleration from a standing start and an all-new D-Step shifting logic that provides rapid shifts at high throttle openings.

Technology The Nissan Maxima’s next-generation premium-level technology features include an 8.0-inch color display features multitouch control for intuitive smartphone-like gestures such as swiping and pinch-tozoom. The system is paired with a standard 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display (ADAD) within the instrument cluster.

The vehicle boasts an extensive range of safety, security and driving aids, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) and Blind Spot Warning (BSW). The Nissan Maxima also offers an available Driver Attention Alert (DAA) system which monitors steering input patterns to establish a baseline and helps alert the driver when drowsy or inattentive driving is detected (only on Nissan Maxima SR grade). Convenience features befitting a luxury vehicle are part of the Nissan Maxima’s suite of available equipment. Many of these features are not even offered on many luxury nameplates and are found standard on most of Nissan Maxima grades. These include a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with an “Easy Entry” system, Around View Monitor, Remote Start via Key Fob and a power rear sunshade. Nissan’s commitment to the highest standards and best value in total cost of

maintenance is steady and to the fore with the all-new Nissan Maxima 2016. Nissan’s safety rating and commitment to keep total cost of maintenance very competitive across the Middle East will bolster sales substantially over the coming years. Additionally a host of factors contribute to the Nissan Maxima’s lower running costs such as greater fuel efficiency, new technologies, build quality, durability and safety. The all-new Nissan Maxima 2016 is now offered in three grade levels including new S, SV and SR grade.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Honda Alghanim launches all new 2016 Honda improved aerodynamic performance, while large-diameter 18-inch or 20-inch Alloy wheels add a classy look. Some of the other features standard in all grades includeFront Fog Lights, LED Tail Lights and LED daytime running lights as standard along with Tailgate Spoiler, Power Door Mirrors and LED Turn Light Indicators.

in the second and third row seats, rear door sunshades which protect passengers from the harsh sun in this region, sun glass holder and conversation mirror, cargo area hidden storage for extra luggage, active noise control (ANC) for a quieter cabin, and a rear entertainment system with a 9 inch display screen available in the Touring grade.

INTERIOR STYLING

POWER TRAIN

The all-new Pilot has a wide, low stance contributing to improved aerodynamic performance, while large-diameter 18inch or 20-inch Alloy wheels add a classy look. Some of the other features standard in all grades include Front Fog Lights, LED Tail Lights and LED daytime running lights as standard along with Tailgate Spoiler, Power Door Mirrors and LED Turn Light Indicators.

The interior styling of Pilot reflects luxury and convenience with a refined new cockpit design, sumptuous beige and black leather seats coordinated with exterior colors, and upscale cabin amenities. An 8-inch touchscreen Display Audio, standard in all grades, gives you instant access to audio system controls and other display features. There’s also cruise control for fatigue-free long-distance driving.

EXTERIOR STYLING

For the first time, the Touring grade includes second row captain’s chairs, which aim at enhancing comfort and providing easy walk through between the second and third row for a 7-passenger configuration. Another notable feature in the EX-L and Touring grade is the one-touch second row seats that enable passengers to have easy access to the third row seating.

The Pilot boasts of a 3.5-liter Direct Injected V6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). It starts up at the press of a button, and with maximum output of 280 horsepower at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 355Nm at 4700 rpm. The Pilot boasts of an engine that combines outstanding fuel efficiency with quick, responsive acceleration and ultra-smooth power delivery. The fuel efficiency for the Pilot in GCC is 11.4km/l for the 2WD and the 10.8 km/l for the AWD.

The Pilot has been completely restyled with a bold, new front grille and flowing, elegant lines of a sport coupe. The new premium features include Halogen projector headlights in EX and EXL grades whereas LED projector headlights in Touring grade, first ever panoramic glass roof on the Touring grade embodies the vision of blue skies for our future generation.

Pilot

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Other amenities include tri-zone automatic climate control, rear air conditioning duct

The Pilot’s newest feature includes Intelligent Traction Management and is now featured on all models except EX 2WD, with pushbutton mode selection and TFT mode display on the cockpit instrument panel. In addition, EX (AWD) & EXL grades offer a full 200mm of ground clearance which enables the vehicle to adapt to any terrain. The most noteworthy feature is the sand mode that enables the Pilot to be driven in the sand.

Alluding to the corporation’s transparency, the showroom also features glass flooring that displays the service garage at the lower level, as well as a spacious, clean and brightly lit area that is equipped with a service lounge that provides customers a chance to observe their vehicles’ maintenance process. In essence, the showroom embodies Alghanim Industries’ vision for Honda in Kuwait – to make dreams come true.

GRADE AND COLOR AVAILABILITY

BODY AND SAFETY The New Pilot is available with most comprehensive set of advanced safety and driver assistive technologies. EXL and Touring grades of the New Pilot feature ‘Remote Engine Start’ that lets you start the engine from a distance, enabling automatic climate control system to regulate cabin temperature to ensure maximum comfort before you even get in. Electric Power Steering, One Push Start System, Cruise Control on steering wheel, a Multi- Angle Rear View Camera are some of the technologies that the All New Pilot is equipped with to aid driving comfort. In addition Honda Pilot utilizes Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure technology to enhance occupant protection and crash compatibility. It also boasts of Honda active-safety features such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control Systems (TCS), Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS), Electronic Brake Distributor (EBD), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Agile Handle Assist (AHA) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The inclusion of these safety technologies benchmarked New Pilot to receive a 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in United States of America, making it one of the safest cars amongst its segment.

The All New Honda Pilot now comes in four grades for this region with the introduction of the new base grade EX in 2WD and the others namely EX, EX-L and Touring, which are in AWD. The All New Honda Pilot will be available in the below exterior colors: 1.

White Diamond Pearl

Lunar Silver Metallic

Modern Steel Metallic

Steel Sapphire Metallic

Dark Cherry Pearl

Crystal Black Pearl

Black Forest Pearl

Obsidian Blue

All come in beige interior colors with the option of White Diamond Pearl and Lunar Silver Metallic in black interior as well. Honda Alghanim urges customers to experience its brand new showroom, and to test-drive the new Pilot. The new showroom boasts three distinctive floors and a service center of an awe-inspiring capacity; it’s also the first in the region to incorporate a new wall fabric technology that features moving images, an element that reflects Honda’s commitment to newness and innovation.

Customers are welcome to visit the new Al Rai showroom in Safat Alghanim from 8:30 AM until 10:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday, and from 9:30 AM until 10:00 PM on Fridays, and the Honda showroom in Shuwaikh, from 8:30 AM until 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM until 8:30 PM, from Saturday to Thursday. Alghanim Motors, the exclusive distributor of Honda automobiles, motorcycles, power products, and marine products in Kuwait, is committed to providing customers with flexible payment solutions and efficient and cost-effective services. The waiting lounge offers entertainment and comfort for customers with gaming consoles, digital satellite TV, free wireless Internet and relaxing massage chairs.

For Inquiries regarding Honda products or aftersales, please call 1822777.

Tokyo Motor Show: Engines of the Future ENGINES

THE

FUTURE

......................................................

The 44th TOKYO

MOTOR SHOW 2015 By Mithun Soni

NISSAN CONCEPT 2020 VISION GT

.........................................

or many PlayStation enthusiasts this car may look familiar: The Nissan Concept 2020 Vision GT was first revealed in 2014 and makes an appearance in the legendary racing game “Gran Turismo 6.” Co-developed with Polyphony Digital, the actual Concept 2020 Vision GT vehicle differs little from the digital racer and I dare to say, it is the most outrageous design Nissan has ever produced. The 2020 Vision GT began its life as challenge for Nissan designers who were given the chance to create a supercar of their dreams. And the result speaks for itself: it’s a supercar that looks so powerful, it could make an Italian “raging bull” cry and beg for mercy. According to Nissan, “This is a look at what a high performance supercar from Nissan may look like in the future”—and we are all looking forward to that. The red beast from Nissan dream garage is definitely a must see.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

volution and vision are perennial buzzwords at motor shows around the world. Two years ago at the Tokyo Motor Show, we saw some glimpses into the future of electric and hybrid powered vehicles, which are now rapidly becoming reality. The dominant concept this time around, though, is the total motor experience, not only for the driver, but for passengers as well. There’s still plenty of eyecandy to be had at TMS, as you can see on these two pages, but along with a look ahead into future technology, we’re getting a prediction of what transportation will mean in the cities of the future, and what we’ll be doing as we go from A to B. You could say that TMS 2015 is holding up a mirror to our current needs and behavior, and showing us our future selves: think of it as an automotive selfie set a decade in the future. Concepts like the Mercedes Vision look less like the inside of an automobile and more like a trendy new age lounge, where friends sit, chat, and check out the latest apps via hologram displays, as they make their social media-broadcasted way to their destinations. Driverless technology means that we may end up with large round tables inside our vehicles, where we can all gather and sit across from each other, and maybe even enjoy a meal. The question is: will anyone be able to look up from their digital devices to make eye contact? While you chew on that future prospect, here are a few of the vehicular visions of the future that grabbed our attention.

MAZDA RX-VISION ......................................................

nyone who has ever driven a Mazda RX will tell you what a blast it is. It’s ultra responsive, has that sporty edge and is, quite simply, hard to stop driving. Well, the boys from Hiroshima will have you fiending for more of that RX goodness with the RX-Vision. Word from Mazda is that it “represents a vision of the future that Mazda hopes to one day make into reality: a front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car … powered by the next-generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine.” Although the rotary engine was shelved in 2012, it looks as though research and development have continued since then, but the RX-Vision, or RX-9 as it could be rightly called, will have to battle through rehabilitation on three fronts—poor efficiency, poor emissions, and poor reliability—to make it back onto the playing field. Sounds like a tall order, and most concepts never make it to production, but we have high hopes for this svelte-looking machine.

TOYOTA KIKA

......................................................

YAMAHA

SPORT

RIDE

CONCEPT

......................................................

hen you hear Yamaha, you think motorcycles, pianos, and maybe the drums. Yamaha is a truly versatile company, and they have branched out into new terrain with their new Sports Ride Concept. The Sports Ride looks like a “Mini-Me” version of the McLaren F1, with muscular, edgy curves and a central tail-light column. This may not come as a surprise since the Sports Ride concept is designed to work with the iStream manufacturing and design process pioneered by Gordon Murray, the man behind the legendary McLaren F1. The two-seater coupe has a stitched leather interior that looks like a case for an orchestral piece of hardware, and for good measure, they even propped a shiny gold trumpet (Yamaha, of course) on the seat! Yamaha promises the Sports Ride feels more like a motorcycle than like a car from behind the wheel. Bravo to one of the stars of the show!

he Kikai reminds us exactly what a car is: a machine. “Kikai,” which means “machine” in Japanese, is the extrovert Toyota concept that is more than happy to show you all its parts. It flaunts most of its physical machinery on the outside of the chassis, so you can see how the suspension, wheels, gauges and all the other naughty parts work. It’s not the sexiest automobile at the show—in fact, it looks like the love child of a dune buggy and “Brum”— but by going against the grain, the Kikai reminds us of the fundamental technology that actually makes cars work. “While most vehicles conceal their inner workings beneath smooth sheet metal,” says Toyota in a press release, “this concept encourages us to appreciate the complex beauty of the mechanical aspects of cars. More broadly, it reminds us of the appeal of the physical and tactile in a digital age.” Maybe it really is what’s on the outside that counts…

MERCEDES-BENZ VISION

......................................................

magine a futuristic people carrier/minivan that drives itself, putting the real emphasis on passenger entertainment. The Mercedes Tokyo Vision Concept is all about the smooth, almost dream-like ride. In this ride you won’t even be looking at the roads or picturesque scenery on your travels—let alone playing a game of “I Spy.” You’ll be navigating your way around the central holographic entertainment system, with the kids hypnotized by the sci-fi colors and LED screens all around them. We don’t expect you’d hear many “are we there yets?” in this metallic luxury carriage. In its press release, Mercedes imagines that the car will be “a chill-out zone in the midst of megacity traffic mayhem.” Think of it like a party on the way to a party, a lounge environment with a VIP wraparound couch: who needs actual seats. Exclusive privacy is ensured by by “Alubeam” windows, which let light into the cabin while shielding the occupants from the outside world. Contemporary Japan - 2016

Great Respect for Japan Due to Automobile Industry Japan is one of the beautiful countries to visit. I am the lucky one who visited Japan few times and explored what I wanted to. What I like about Japan is the automotive industry with the huge local and international competition. I have visited Japan many times in my life and watched many amazing natural places and humanly built temples there. I cannot resist without praising the art of Japan. The people of Japanese land are worth meeting. They are adorable, loveable and have a beautiful mind to interact. I must not forget to talk about the Japanese food particularly the Kare Raisu a kind of very delicious rice curry. I liked all the things about Japan instead of the Japanese language. I also had a glance on the different types of industry during my stays and only one industry attracted me which was the industry of automotive. I must say that Japanese nation is the most research oriented nation in the field of Automobiles. The automobile industry of Japan is more than 100 years old as the first domestic bus powered by stream engine was manufactured by Tarao Yamaha in 1904. That was the start of the biggest automobile industry of the world. After that this industry never looked back and continued the journey of success. After three years, the first totally gasoline fuel engine car Takuri was built by Komanosuke Uchiyama. The real 60

Contemporary Japan - 2016

success of Japanese automobile industry was started when in 1936 Toyota a textile manufacturer started to build vehicles.

Cars before the World War Two:-

Most of the cars manufactured in Japan before the World War Two, based on the European and American cars models. In 1917 Mitsubishi manufactured one car called Model A was based on Fiat A3-3 design. Surprisingly this model was the first top mass produced model in Japan with the quantity of 22 units produced. In the era of 1930, Cars of Nissan Motors were based on Graham-Paige and Austin 7. Even the Toyota copied Chrysler Airflow to build Toyota AA model.

Cars after World War Two:-

In 1945, where the USA was busy to destroy Japan by atomic bombing in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, at the same time Japan was planning a defeat for the whole world. Although the atomic bombing put Japan many years back yet this country has recovered as rapidly as we never thought. When the Atomic bombs targeted Hiroshima and Nagasaki, people thought that Japan would not be able to regain the stability in upcoming 20 to 30 years. But amazingly, the nation of Japan stood strongly and gradually gained the lost position in the World War Two. The real story of automobile industry of

Japan was started from 1960 when the manufacturing of the cars and models became creative. The competition between the manufacturers enhanced as the new list of automakers continued to enhance in that decade. Honda was also came into existence in that decade and introduced its first manufactured car Honda S500.One of the highest selling cars Corolla was also founded in 1966 by Toyota. In 1980 Japan surpassed the United States and became the biggest automaker of the world.

Japanese Used Cars, Another Major Auto Industry of Japan

Used cars market is also an edge for the Japanese auto industry. Huge amount of used cars exportation is done and most of the used cars are sold through the Japan Auto Auction houses. Exporters of Japanese used cars and vehicles buy the membership of different auto auction houses in Japan and buy used cars from these auctions. After buying, these cars are exported to different countries. Individuals cannot buy cars from the auction and that is why they buy their desired cars through the used cars dealers and exporters.

One Advice:-

Before visiting Japan, you must make a Japanese native friend who knows English.

Latest Technology-in O

Japan Auto Industries

ne of the most commonly used products in daily life is motor vehicles, yet is most complicated and requires complex tec hnologies for development. Along with the technologies and methods used for manufacturing of vehicles, supplier industries for steel and other parts also plays a very vital role in developing of components that are used for manufacturing motor vehicles.

The Japanese automobile industry is one of the most prominent and largest industries in the world. Since 1960s, after surpassing Germany, Japan has been among top three automakers in the world. The country is home to a number of companies that manufacture all types of vehicles, engines, ATVs (Automatic Transmission vehicles).

changed and reinvented the manufacturing process of motor vehicles. The strong competition in the automobile market has forced automakers to come with a new design every four to five years. This has in turn decreased the product life-cycle of automobiles. To increase the performance capability of the vehicle and to create innovative designs, new technologies are used by automakers. These developments have led to unique and innovative designs for future automobiles. In order to control the dependency on fuels and designing vehicles that are more efficient, Japanese automakers have built electric hybrids and fuel-cell vehicles. With the increase in the production and usage of environmentally friendly vehicles, more automakers are getting engaged in this production line.

A large amount of time and money are invested in developing and improving the manufacturing process, which in turn increase the quality and efficiency of products manufactured. Over the past many years, considerable technological advancement has taken place, which has

Various technologies are incorporated by manufacturers to keep drivers and other passengers safe and offer them comfortable and enjoyable driving. Once available on topof- the-line luxury vehicles only, many of the features are now available on family cars also. Some of the latest

Contemporary Japan - 2016

technologies included by Japanese makers in their vehicles are as discussed in the next segment.

Electric Powered Vehicles

An electric car is an automobile that uses electrical energy stored in batteries instead of petroleum or gasoline. Electric motors present in electric cars give instant torque, creating strong and smooth acceleration. During oil crises, people diverted towards electric cars to use as an alternate of fuels. Even nowadays, these vehicles are popular due to ever increasing oil prices and environment pollution. Top automakers such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are already in this sector with their automobiles.

Electric Steering vehicles

With this technology, steering is assisted by an electric motor rather than by hydraulic pressure. This enhances fuel-efficiency since the steering assistance does not place any load on the engine.

Hybrid Powered Vehicles

Hybrid cars are those cars, which uses two or more distinct power sources to move the car. It uses a mix of energy sources, typically electric motors with traditional internal combustion engines. With the production of gas-electric hybrid, people moved away from complete reliance on the internal combustion engine. Hybrid vehicles are highly fuel efficient and present the first major step toward fuel cell vehicles, according to industry specialists. Japanese automaker, Toyota Motors is one of the auto industry leaders in hybrid vehicle research and production with its Prius model. Other makers are also making their way in the manufacturing of hybrid vehicles, by designing passenger cars as well as pickups. Many hybrid vehicles a real ready in the market by Japanese makers and many are a waiting to get launched.

Fuel Cell Vehicles

A Fuel Cell Vehicle is equipped with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fuel Cellâ&#x20AC;? in which electricity is generated through chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to power the motor. As a gasoline substitute for fuel, in particular hydrogen has been chosen. Fuel cell systems operate by compressing hydrogen made from natural gas and gasoline, which is then converted to hydrogen by on-board systems. Many automakers across the world are investing heavily in the development of fuel cell systems. For instance, General Motors with collaboration with Daimler Chrysler have invested in order to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology. Even though these vehicles are environmentally friendly and will contribute a lot in the development of automobile industry, but still they will face challenges in developing of hydrogen fueling station that supports the use of fuel cell vehicles. Innovation and leadership have been the gift of Japanese automobile sectors from the beginning. Japanese automakers have a solid track record of building cars for decades. To satisfy the strong dem and for vehicles, Japanese auto makers are increasing their production. Nowadays, more emphasis is being give non environmentally friendly vehicles. Many fue lsefficient and new ultra - eff icient vehicles are already on the road, and still there are expectations for rapid improvement in this area. Electric vehicles plays vital role in reducing dependence on fuels and improving air-quality. Many

automakers are investing heavily to come up with better and affordable technologies in their vehicles. The automobile sector of Japan is very vast and it keeps on increasing day by day. Every year Japanese automakers come up with new technologies to give drivers and other occupant pleasurable driving experience.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

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At Azumami, we reinvent the Japanese experience with a modern take on the traditional cuisine. 我々は再発明します日本の経験 www.azumami.com @azumami_sushi Dar Al-Awadhi, Ahmad Aljaber St. Sharq. Level B1 Online orders through www.talabat.com

Spicy Salmon Sushi

Some of our Favorites

Signature Fusion Dishes

私たちのお気に入り

フュージョン料理

California Roll カリフォルニア

Salmon Feta Sushi 鮭

Green Tea Tiramisu ティラミス

Cassawa マキ

Quinoa Chirashi キノア

Mushroom Rice 米

Online orders through www.talabat.com

Azu Chirashi ちらし

Azucu キュウリ

Hamachi Carpaccio ハマチ

Shaikh Hamoud Special 特別

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Yuzu

Brightening Japanese Cuisine with a Tangy Fragrance Photos: Natori Kazuhisa Culinary collaboration: Araki Noriko

Top: Yuzu fruit has lots of seeds and not much juice, so the rind is used more often than the flesh. (Photo: Aflo) Left: Simmered small taro garnished with a topping of yuzu rind. The rind is sliced, shredded, or grated to release its aroma.Tim

bright yellow peel and a tangy

inside the hot pot until, at the table, you

The juice is strongly acidic, and when

aroma: these are the charms of

remove the cover and release the aroma

mixed with soy sauce or a broth it makes

a fruit called yuzu. Yuzu grows on a broadleaf evergreen shrub in the

with the steam, delighting everyone waiting to eat.

a tangy sauce called ponzu, for hot pots and steamed dishes. Unripe ao-yuzu

rutaceae family. After seeding, the tree

can be used to make a seasoning—

takes at least a decade before it bears

In the kitchen, yuzu is used in a

mash it, then mix in green chili and salt.

fruit, but it is more frost-hardy than

variety of ways. One dish that takes

The recipe comes from Kyushu and the

any other citrus tree and even grows

full advantage of its ability to charm is

seasoning, called yuzu kosho (“yuzu

in Japan’s Tohoku region, where the weather is relatively harsh. The fruit

yuzu-gama (“yuzu pot”). The peel of the fruit itself becomes a little bowl, served

pepper”), is widely used as a condiment for soba noodles or an extra flavorful

ripens in autumn (around October)

in formal meals like New Year’s dinners

salad dressing.

until the onset of winter. Unripe fruit

and kaiseki ryori banquets. To make it,

sport a dark green peel and are picked

slice off the top of the fruit, scoop out

The Japanese use yuzu for another

in summer (generally July) and sold as

the inside, then stuff with ingredients

purpose other than for food. In Japan,

ao-yuzu (“green yuzu”).

such as a vinegared preparation. The

on the shortest day of the year (winter

Japanese people have long used yuzu

yellow peel provides an accent to the meal and creates impact with its color.

solstice, generally December 22), it is customary to fill the bathtub and then

in their cuisine. Most often, the fruit

Moreover, the rind delicately transfers

float pieces of the peel or the fruit with

has a lot of seeds and not much juice,

its aroma to the ingredients inside.

the peel on the water. People say that

so the rind is used more than the flesh.

“Aroma is one important element to

soaking in hot yuzu-yu water with the

The rind is peeled thin or chopped fine, then used in clear soups or hot pots to bring out the flavor. Here is one way to

make a meal tasty, and when winter comes I’d say we need yuzu. It’s not too expensive in Japan and not hard to find,

fragrance wafting up brings warm comfort and refreshment, not only to the body, but to the soul. An aroma for

prepare it: place clear soup in a bowl, add small pieces of minced rind and

and just a little adds zest to the meal. It’s a great little ingredient,” says culinary

the dining table and the bathtub! Yuzu brightens up life in Japan, and soothes

cover the bowl. This traps the fragrance

expert Araki Noriko.

the mind, too.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Yuzu-gama (“yuzu pots”) take full advantage of the fruit’s shape, color and aroma. Inside the pots are (from foreground) salmon roe; pickled daikon radish and carrot; and boiled komatsuna greens and shimeji mushrooms.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Sushi Bar: Cooking up creativity Indulge in your passion for authentic Japanese cuisine at Sushi Bar! Located in Al Hamra luxury mall, Sushi Bar is an upscale restaurant that caters to the needs of seafood lovers who appreciate unique Japanese cuisine in a Zen style atmosphere. Since its inception in 2012, Sushi Bar has been a pioneer in the field of Japanese restaurants and remains so till today. Exceeding its own expectations, Sushi Bar is credited with the launch of a sushi-craze that has expanded beyond all limits.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Sushi Bar lately launched its live cooking Teppanyaki bar Sushi Bar is behind popular creations such as Crazy Maki, Naked Maki and Marinated Salmon, which are now served in the majority of Japanese restaurants across the country. Sushi Bar has shown over the years innovation and perpetual progress, which has kept patrons flocking to the restaurant in droves and made it stand out and lead the way.

Sushi bar is situated in Al-Hamra Luxury Center, First Floor, Sharq - Kuwait. Opening timings are from 12:00PM to 11:00PM For more inquiries please call 22270300 f: +965 22212017

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Contemporary Japan - 2016

10 Famous Halal Restaurants You Can Visit in Tokyo No religion or race in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world is bound by borders, especially in the Facebook era nothing remains within one countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s borders and soon reaches out to other countries. People from all over the world have stormed to Japanese shores since it has opened its gate towards the fast pacing world in an attempt to catch pace with it. Resultantly many Muslim friendly reforms and establishments have taken root in the land of the rising Sun; Japan. It used to be hard to find halal food in Japan, halal meat to be a prospect very far from being real. Now even Haneda International Airport has many halal restaurants and food chains. We found out many people still find it hard to locate quality halal restaurants when they visit Tokyo so we came up with 10 most famous Halal restaurants in Tokyo. Some of these restaurants are Halal certified; some have a separate halal menu whereas some require reservations to specially cook a halal meal for you, in advance.

Malaychan

A halal certified restaurant, certified by Malaysian Government, Malaychan is a Chinese Malaysian restaurant in Ikebukuro.

Gyumon

Gyumon is another Yakiniku restaurant which is Halal certified and you can enjoy your choice of grilled meat without worrying. It is located in Shibuya.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Sumiyakiya

For the lovers of Yakiniku, this restaurant is heaven for Muslims in Roppongi, where halal meat is available for them to try as Yakiniku. You can make it yourself too on the table top stove provided.

Hanasakaji-San

A perfect spot for Muslims to try Japanese food with Halal meat. This restaurant in Shibuya is known for its Shabu-shabu.

Kappou Yama

Located in Saitama, this restaurant is halal certified. If you stop by make sure to try their bento, Yahitori and Ramen noodles.

Kusumoto

For a genuine taste of Washoku, visit this restaurant in Nishi azabu and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to try their bento. It is certified Muslim friendly by Nippon Asia Halal Association.

Minokishi

Feel relaxed and enjoy a special halal gozen menu at this restaurant in Ikebukuro after a long day of sightseeing and shopping.

Kappo Suruga

This Muslim friendly certified restaurant is located in Chiba and is known for its mesmerizing Japanese cuisine.

Takaraya

Located very near to Narita airport in Chiba, this restaurant takes special measures to make Muslims feel at home with a gender specific prayer room and halal seasonings and separate utensils to prepare halal food.

10.

Mokushundo

This restaurant located in Hotel Chinzanso accommodates all foreign touristsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; special meal requirements from vegetarian to non alcoholic menus.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Japanese Mushroom Soup Ingredients

*OTUSVDUJPOT

P[ H TIJNFKJ PS XIJUF NVTISPPNT

DVQT NM XBUFS

TIFFUT OPSJ TFBXFFE

TNBMM HBSMJD DMPWF QFFMFE

UTQ รถTI TBVDF

B IBOEGVM EJDFE UPGV

TQSJOH POJPO TMJDFE รถOFMZ

UTQ MJHIU TPZ TBVDF PS SFE NJTP

2. 1VU B MJE PO UIF QBO BOE MFU UIF JOHSFEJFOUT TJNNFS JO UIF XBUFS GPS NJOVUFT 5IFO UBLF UIF QBO Pรฒ UIF IFBU BOE QVU JU BTJEF GPS BOPUIFS NJOVUFT %SBJO UIF รธBWPSFE TPVQ CBTF BOE EJTDBSE UIF DPPLFE TFBXFFE BOE HBSMJD DMPWF

Cuisine: Japanese Serves:

10 mins

3. 1MBDF UIF TPVQ CBTF PWFS NFEJVN IFBU BHBJO BOE BEE UIF NVTISPPNT *G ZPV BSF VTJOH XIJUF NVTISPPNT TMJDF UIFN VQ รถSTU

Prep time Cook time 5 mins

1. 1PVS UIF XBUFS JO B MBSHF TBVDFQBO BOE QMBDF JU PWFS NFEJVN IFBU %PO U MFU JU CPJM 0ODF XBSN BEE UIF OPSJ TFBXFFE UIF QFFMFE HBSMJD DMPWF BOE UIF รถTI TBVDF

Total time 15 mins

$PPL GPS B NJOVUF BOE BEE UIF TPZ TBVDF PS SFE NJTP BOE EJDFE UPGV

5. $IFDL UIF TFBTPOJOH BOE BEE FYUSB TBMU TPZ TBVDF PS NJTP UP UBTUF JG OFDFTTBSZ "EE UIF TMJDFE TQSJOH onion. 74

Contemporary Japan - 2016

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Japan’s Staple Food and Important Cultural Symbol

Rice, of course, is Japan’s staple food

Rice is also used as the base of Western-

imbue a physical and sacred energy into the

and forms the base of the national cuisine.

style yōshoku dishes such as omurice and

eater. As mochi are made from condensed,

However, rice is also an essential and

doria or served with hamburgers or the

pounded rice flour they are thought to give

important symbol within Japanese culture,

ever popular Japanese curry. In fact the

even more power to the eater and therefore

heritage and religion.

suitability of imported Western dishes to be

hold a special significance. On New Year’s

served with rice played a major part in their

Day, Japan’s most important holiday, a

popularity and eventual integration into

special soup named ozōni which contains

modern Japanese cuisine.

mochi is served for this reason.

Rice is served in many different ways and its subtle flavour makes it a suitable accompaniment for a wide variety of dishes.

Its most famous incarnations is perhaps as

Rice is also used in Japanese food in the

Rice is also used to make Japan›s

the basis of sushi but is also seen shaped

form of flour made from sweet glutenous rice.

national drink, sake, which is often drunk

intoonigiri rice balls, topped with meat or

Many traditional Japanese wagashi sweets

during Shintō rituals, offered at shrines

fish as a donburi dish, submerged in green

such as dango and mochi are made with this

during festivals and believed to be drunk

tea or simply with raw egg and shoyu.

flour. Traditionally rice is considered sacred

by the gods. Just like rice in its original

in Japan and thought to have the ability to

form sake ornihonshu is consumed in both

Contemporary Japan - 2016

everyday situations and on occasions with

songs would be sung as the rice was planted

special religious significance.

and rituals and prayers would be carried out to protect the crop and wish for a good

The cultivation of rice is closely linked

harvest. It is from these practices that many

to the seasons: in spring the earth in the

matsuri still celebrated today originate and

rice fields is prepared and fertilized, early

it is from the connection to the seasons

in summer the fields are flooded and the

that the importance of observing seasonal

seedlings are planted, the heavy rainfall of

changes in Japanese culture comes from.

the rainy season encourages the plants to

The traditional sport of sumo also has its

grow while the heat of late summer allows

origins in ancient rituals used to pray for a

the rice to flourish. In autumn the rice is

good harvest. Rice is so important in Japan

ready to be harvested. As rice is such an

that it has influenced culture, heritage,

essential crop and foodstuff in Japan the

religion, politics and economics and has

success of the harvest was of the utmost

permeated every aspect of Japanese life.

importance throughout history. Religious

Contemporary Japan - 2016

You will need to use Japanese currency when traveling in Japan. This article will provide visitors with some basic information regarding the yen.

The Types of Money Used in Japan

Understanding

the Yen:

Japan uses the Japanese yen, with the symbol being ¥. Currently there are 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen banknotes in circulation. Coins come in oneyen, five-yen, 10-yen, 50-yen, 100-yen and 500-yen denominations. Distinguishing Features of the Yen Japanese banknotes and coins come with various distinct markings, so we have compiled a brief overview here for your reference.

The T Th e1 10,000 Yen Bill The TTh he fro front of the 10,000 yen bill is adorned by aan n image im ma of the samurai Yukichi Fukuzawa, who w ho was also an intellectual and an educator. e duca A 10,000 yen bill in your wallet will w ill give g you peace of mind during your ttrip. rip p. At A most restaurants, this budget will ccomfortably omfo let you eat and drink your fill. TTours ours administered by Hato Bus, popular with w itth Japanese J tourists and foreign visitors aalike, likke, can c be joined for 10,000 yen per person aand nd have ha support for multiple languages.

The T he 5 5,000 Yen Bill

Bills & Coins 78

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TThe he 5,000 5 yen bill is of a violet hue, and ffeatures eatur Ichiyo Higuchi, Japan’s first p prominent romi female writer. On average, you ccan an ex expect to spend about 5,000 yen per p pe person ers rson when dining out at well-known rrestaurants estau and fashionable izakayas. If you want tto have lunch at a high-class traditional Japanese restaurant or sushi restaurant, you can expect to spend between 3,000 to 5,000 yen.

The 2,000 Yen Bill The design on the 2,000 yen bill features the Japanese literary classic “The Tales of the Genji” and its author, MurasakiShikibu. You will see this bill rarely, if at all. Be careful because it cannot be used in vending machines.If you want to indulge yourself and splurge at lunch a little bit, 2,000 yen is just about right. A “Tokyo Free Ticket”, available at 1,590 yen, is valid within the 23 wards of Tokyo and allows its holder unlimited travel on JR trains, subways and city buses for one day. You can buy one of these and still get some change back.

The 1,000 Yen Bill The 1,000 yen bill features the bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi on the front.The average office worker will spend about 1,000 yen on lunch. Teishoku, or set lunches, typically contain rice, a main dish, soup and similar menu items. Teishoku generally cost around 1,000 yen.

The 500 Yen Coin The 500-yen coin is actually the most recent yen coin to be minted. It is the largest of the yen coins, and you can feel its weight even in your wallet.Most bento boxes sold at convenience stores are around 500 yen. Inputting the keywords “one coin” into a

search engine will return an extensive list of places where you can eat lunch for a single 500-yen coin. This is a reasonable amount to spend for the thrifty traveler.

The 100-Yen Coin The 100-yen coin is the Japanese equivalent of the one dollar bill. It is the most commonly used coin on a day-to-day basis. At McDonald’s, items on the “100-Yen Mac” menu, such as regular hamburgers, soft serve ice cream, and small drinks, can be purchased with a 100-yen coin. Items priced at 100 yen line the shelves at hyakkin (100yen stores): food, clothing, household goods and more. These stores are quite popular with tourists.

The 50-Yen Coin The chrysanthemum, cultivated for its appeal as a decorative flower, can be seen on the 50-yen coin. When first released, 50-yen coins lacked holes in the middle. However, to make it easier to distinguish them from 100-yen coins at a glance, holes were incorporated into the design.Recently the price of a stamp has risen from 50 yen to 52 yen, but you can send a postcard anywhere in Japan with one. If you would like to send a postcard internationally, it costs 70 yen via air mail and 60 yen via surface mail. How about memorializing your trip by sending a postcard to your friends and family abroad?

Contemporary Japan - 2016

The 10-Yen Coin A design of the Phoenix Hall at Byoudouin Temple in Kyoto, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is featured on the bronze 10-yen coin.You can use 10yen coins at public pay phones, which only accept 10-yen and 100-yen coins. With a 10-yen coin, you can get about 60 seconds of talk time during the day and about 80 seconds of talk time at night.

The Five-Yen Coin Like the 50-yen coin, the design of the fiveyen coin has a hole in the center. The words in Japanese for “five yen” and for “destiny” are both pronounced as “go en”, so five-yen coins are said to be lucky.

The One-Yen Coin The one-yen coin is made of aluminum, and weighs one gram. It is said that producing a one-yen coin costs three yen. There is a saying in Japan that “he who laughs at one yen will weep at one yen”, meaning that all money has value, even something as small as a one-yen coin. Now that the consumption tax has risen to 8%, one-yen coins see a lot of use when people are buying things with cash.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Central Japan Railway Company’s Shinkansen General Control Center controls operations on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.

The “brain” behind train operations: The Shinkansen General Control Center The “brain” keeping Tokaido Shinkansen trains running safe and on time is the Shinkansen General Control Center. A large room there has an immense board extending across an The “brain” behind

train operations: The Shinkansen General Control Center entire wall, showing tracks, stations, and real-time information on train locations at a glance. If it looks like a train might be delayed, controllers may adjust scheduling to let trains behind it move ahead. In heavy rains or strong winds, a command might go

Central Japan Railway Company’s newest train, the N700A, on a Tokaido Shinkansen track. It is equipped with a system that stops trains quickly in emergencies to avoid accidents.

Shinkansen High-speed Trains Run Safe Shinkansen super express trains connect major cities throughout Japan, traveling at astounding speeds while keeping to the schedule remarkably well. Equally surprising is their safety—for example, during 48 years of continued operations since Tokaido Shinkansen trains began running in 1964, the system has never experienced an accident causing an on-board passenger fatality. These pages look at just a few of the technologies, systems and people involved. Also revealed here are some of the secrets of Shinkansen safety as it speeds into the future.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

out to stop trains at a moment’s notice, limiting delays elsewhere and preventing accidents. With the help of controllers’ alert eyes and input, the control system is second to none, as the Shinkansen’s strong safety record shows.

“Dr. Yellow”—Diagnosing conditions on the go

N700A series trains: New technology for fast, safe stops

Nicknamed “Dr. Yellow,” the Shinkansen Electric and Track Inspection Train is a reliable diagnosis tool for the high-speed rail system. It makes “doctor’s” rounds between Tokyo and Hakata about once every 10 days, checking the condition of the overhead power lines and track. Onboard sensors diagnose the condition of equipment, and any maintenance needs are addressed promptly. People rarely see the train, so many who catch sight of it consider it a sign of good luck. Some people even call it “The Good Luck Train.”

Japan’s latest high-speed train is the N700A. It entered service on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line in February 2013, and on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line the following month. It is equipped with a newly developed earthquaketriggered braking system that permits even shorter stopping distances when a quake is detected. The N700A also has a system that continually monitors vibrations experienced by the wheel systems supporting the railcar and quickly detects even minor abnormalities.

“Dr. Yellow” checks the condition of the track and overhead power supply wires.

Left: East Japan Railway Company staff work without a wasted movement, cleaning and tidying a passenger car interior. It takes them just seven minutes. Right: Their job done, they give a low welcoming bow to passengers about to get on the train.

7-minute magic: Marvelous interior cleaning

Shinkansen trains are well known for their clean and tidy interiors. Tokyo Station, the busiest station in Japan’s high-speed rail network, is the departure point for the Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines. Trains on these lines slide in and out every four minutes or so, using four platforms. They remain there for 12 minutes, five of which are for passengers to get on and off. That leaves just seven minutes for station staff to change the seat back overs, collect and remove garbage, sweep floors and more, coordinating their teamwork under a leader. The workers bow to arriving and departing passengers; these scenes of hospitality on Shinkansen platforms have become legendary.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Japan

as a Medical

Tourism Destination

Japan: Promising Point of Excellence for Medical Tourism Singapore, Bangkok and even Seoul are well-known points of excellence for medical tourism in Asia, but Japan, in spite of an unparalleled level of medical expertise, is not yet considered a leading player. This reality could be attributed to several unique factors including a healthcare system in Japan structured under compulsory public health insurance.

he government has defined medical tourism as a key driver of economic growth and has proactively begun to promote both inbound and outbound opportunities. Before long, Japan will capitalize on national technologies, methodologies, products and people to emerge as a point of excellence for medical tourism. Japan has achieved the highest survival rate â&#x20AC;&#x201C; five years â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for colorectal cancer patients, according to an Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development report. There are quite a few reasons for 84

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this outstanding record, the biggest being compulsory public health insurance, which enables many Japanese patients to obtain a high standard of treatment anytime and anywhere.

citizens in Japan can still access a high level of medical care at a reasonable self-expense. This type of quality care has contributed to high life expectancies.

Japanese citizens must be enrolled in public health insurance under the national social security system. Under this plan, a patient pays 30 percent of the total medical cost including prescribed medications. The remaining costs are paid by insurance. An aging society has made this increasingly difficult to financially administer, but

Each component, such as consultation, examination, treatment, surgery, inpatient care, and medication, is priced under Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public health insurance standards. In principle, this pricing is universally applied to all medical institutions nationwide. Identical services are priced equally across medical providers when treatment falls within the

Cost-Effective

insurance coverage. However, patients pay 30 percent of the price. Treatments and procedures in Japan are also regulated under the scope of public health insurance. Japan’s five-year colorectal survival rate is the best in the world. The cost- effectiveness for colorectal cancer is highly recognized. According to the OECD report, healthcare spending per capita in Japan is almost equivalent to England, but the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer patients in Japan is 20 points higher. The survival rate in the United States is a bit lower than in Japan. But, spending in the United States is more than double. OECD also reports advanced medical equipment, such as MRI and CT, in Japan is highly accessible compared to other developed countries including the United States, Germany, and South Korea. Along with this advanced medical equipment for examinations, cutting edge technologies for cancer treatment can help to establish Japan as an attractive medical tourism destination. The National Institute of Radiological Science in Japan reports that there are only 17 locations worldwide — including those which are under construction and in planning stages — where carbon ion radiotherapy is

offered and five are in Japan. Out of the six in operation, three are in Japan. Japan has nine facilities for proton radiotherapy including six in operation and three under construction. These cancer treatments are not covered under public health insurance; however, related examinations, inpatient care and medications are.

International Patients Foreign patients are not insured under the public medical system and instead pay 100 percent of their medical costs, but at both transparent and reasonable prices. International patients can face quite a few challenges in Japan. To make the transition for care productive, an international patient should identify the most appropriate healthcare provider — depending on condition – before booking treatment. International patients also should acquire a VISA to enter and stay in Japan. Travel logistics and accommodations should be properly arranged. Most medical providers including doctors speak English, but the not all nurses and administrators do. Interpreters are a must. Language and cultural barriers are common and must be addressed to ensure proper treatment including followup care upon returning home.

Foreign patients cannot make all the arrangements themselves and should seek the assistance of a medical tourism company or facilitators, who can provide one-stop assistance with services and arrangements. A well-arranged trip can not only guarantee a quality travel experience to Japan, but can maximize the efficacy of medical treatments.

Emergency Assistance Japan Emergency Assistance Japan Co., Ltd., incorporated in 2003, was listed in the JASDAQ division of Tokyo Stock Exchange before it diversified its business portfolio from an assistance business to include medical tourism two years ago. EAJ is a 1st medical stay VISA guarantor designated by the Japanese government and has developed relationships with leading Japanese medical providers who offer cutting edge technologies, advanced equipment and excellent treatment methodologies. By taking advantage of experiences gained in the medical assistance industry, EAJ can provide all any service for foreign patients who wish to be medically treated in Japan. EAJ has a proven record in support of patients from China, Russia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Motoman Makes History ALENA ECKELMANN

OKYO 2020 – the world is watching

“Motoman was not popular with potential

the Summer Olympics in Japan. A

clients initially, and we were worried, but

massive event like this needs many

in the 1990s Motoman became a much

helpers, but not all of them will be humans

sought-after worker at Japan’s automated

in the future!

factories, especially in the automobile industry,” explained

Ayumi Hayashida General Manager, Tokyo Administration Division & Corporate Communication Group, YASKAWA Electric Corporation

Ayumi

Hayashida,

Serving at restaurants, selling ice cream or

General Manager, Tokyo Administration

beating the taiko drum, this all can be done by

Division & Corporate Communication Group,

Motoman, YASKAWA Electric Corporation’s

YASKAWA Electric Corporation. Priced at

new generation, humanfriendly robot.

several million yen a unit, Motoman is really multi-faceted. While its core skills are

YASKAWA Electric is the world’s biggest

welding, painting, assembly and handling, it

maker of industrial robots; it ranks in the

is now even being used in the medical and

“Big Four” together with Germany’s Kuka,

biomedical industry.

Swedish ABB and Japan’s Fanuc Corp. Established in 1915, YASKAWA Electric

Even at the present time, Motoman’s main

initially produced motors and applications,

use is in the automobile industry. Almost

and over their almost 100 years in business,

all of Japan’s automobile manufacturers use

the company has become a leader in

Motoman, and Europe’s main automobile

manufacturing inverter drives, servo drives

manufacturers and related components

and machine controllers.

manufacturers have come to employ Motoman in many ways.

Up to the present, YASKAWA Electric has

Contemporary Japan - 2016

released more than 270,000 robots for use

70% of robots manufactured by YASKAWA

in manufacturing to the world. In recent

Electric are exported overseas. 54% of all

years, the total volume of units released has

products manufactured by the company

been increasing by around 20,000 units per

are also exported. Of the 54%, sales in

year. In 1977, YASKAWA Electric put their first

Asia (which includes China) make up 27%,

all-electric industrial robot on the market. It

while America makes up 17% and Europe

was named Motoman (motor + human).

10%. The company has business centers

Exhibition of Motoman technology at YASKAWA Electric plant in 28 countries and has 14,000 employees

“In Japan, we manufacture a robot first,

more imagination. In Japan, we are good at

throughout the world.

and then we consider how to use it,

making high performance robots but not

whereas overseas, the idea for a certain

at creating innovative ideas with regards to

In 2015, YASKAWA will celebrate their 100th

application comes first, then a robot that

their use. This is where we can learn a great

anniversary, but the company is not resting

provides the solution to the problem is

deal from Europe and the US,” he concluded.

on their laurels. They envision Motoman

created,” Hayashida explained. “We need

to be a key helping hand in the service industry. “Aging society is a global issue. In future, Motoman will assist humans in the fields of medicine and welfare as well as in daily life. This is our new challenge,” said Hayashida. A closer dialogue between the robot maker, robot users and system integrators is needed to establish these new applications for YASKAWA Electric’s robot technology. YASKAWA Electric has set up facilities (robot centers) in Munich, Germany; Ohio, USA; Saitama, Japan; and Shanghai, China which aim to deepen communication between the company and robot project business partners, In future, expansion of such centers in Asia is planned.

Motoman robots drumming Contemporary Japan - 2016

The seven profound principles of the Samurai we could all learn a lot from By Doctor ASKY Bushido is a unique code, a set of rules, recommendations and norms adhered to by the samurai. It was these ancient warriors who, with their military and strategic skills and passion for philosophy, eventually became the highest-ranking social caste in feudal Japan. It is clear to us today that the samuraiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s code, despite the passage of time and the different cultural context, contains many useful lessons for all of us seeking personal growth.

The seven virtues that the samurai strove to achieve were:

Gi: Righteousness. Be acutely honest in all of your actions. Understand that justice comes not from other people, but from yourself. For the samurai there were no degrees of honour and justice; there was only black and white, truth and lie. An honest person who has a pure soul must not be afraid of the truth.

Yu: Courage. Raise yourself above the crowd. Hiding like a turtle in a shell is not living at all. A true warriors must have a heroic level of courage. Such a life is dangerous and risky, but only in this way can it be full and complete. Heroic courage is not blind â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it is intelligent and strong. Replace your fear with respect and caution. 88

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Jin: Benevolence. The key concepts here are compassion and mercy. Intensive training helped make the samurai nimble and strong. They developed powers which could, and had to be, used for the good of others. If an opportunity to do good did not arise, these warriors sought them out for themselves — and we must too.

Rei: Respect. A samurai did not need to be cruel to prove his strength. He was courteous even with his enemies. Without this quality, we are on the same level as animals. The true strength of a warrior — and of any other person — reveals itself in conflict.

Makoto: Honesty and Sincerity. If a samurai declared that he would carry out a task, he felt obligated to do it at all costs. Nothing in the world would stop him from completing his actions. He did not have to give his word; he did not have to promise. Indeed, the word of a samurai guaranteed the truthfulness of an assertion. Speaking and doing are the same action. It is noteworthy that the Japanese character for this concept consists of “speak“ ( ) and ”become” ( ) – in other words, “what you say is what you do”.

Meiyo: Honour. A warrior has only one judge of honour, and this is himself. Decisions that he makes reflect his true self. But there’s a message here for all of us: You cannot hide from yourself!

Chugi:

Loyalty. A samurai was responsible for his actions and their consequences. He was absolutely loyal to his commander and was an example to his subordinates. Words uttered by a man are the traces he leaves behind; you can follow them wherever they lead to. So look carefully at where you are going! Contemporary Japan - 2016

All about Sumo

umo is a competition in which two rikishi (sumo wrestlers) wearing mawashi (wrestling belts) come together to fight in a dohyo (sumo ring) measuring 4.55m in diameter. It was first established as a organized competition around the seventeenth century. Nowadays, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practiced worldwide, and there are many non-Japanese rikishi too!

The Origins of Sumo The origins of sumo date back to ancient times. It first emerged around 5 BC to 3 BC, when it was used as an agricultural ritual to 90

Contemporary Japan - 2016

pray for rice cultivation. After that, it became a national event used to predict the success or failure of a harvest, and then a ceremony held at the imperial court. Eventually, it developed into a refined art, and became popular as a form of combat sport. However, despite sumoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern sports status, some customs from its time as a sacred ritual remain. For example, the offering of sake, rice, and salt to welcome the Gods of sumo on the first day of a competition, and then sending them off again on the final day with senshuraku, the concluding festivities.Through its spiritual

beginnings and historical development, sumo has become deeply rooted in the lives and hearts of the Japanese people as the national sport.

Sumo in Everyday Life Nowadays, most fans are of the older generation and many younger people don’t know much about the sport, but there are some middle schools that have elective courses on sumo.There is also a sumo-related Shinto ritual which takes place all over the country. Called nakizumo, literally “crying sumo”, it’s a competition in which two babies are held by sumo wrestlers, and the first to wail wins. It might not sound like it, but this is considered a prayer for the healthy upbringing of children! Originally sumo-specific words can also be heard being used in everyday conversation. For example, the aforementioned

senshuraku can be used to mean the last day of a program, and yokozuna, the word for the highest rank in sumo, can be used to mean “the biggest” or “the strongest”.It’s even infiltrated Japanese food. Chankonabe, a hearty stew of chicken dumplings and vegetables, was originally part of a weight-gain diet for rikishi, but is now popular with the general public.

Want to Watch a Sumo Match? Want to see the great national sport for yourself? There are a few ways you can go about it. You can watch a match at a honbasho, an official professional tournament, or a hanazumo, a special touring tournament. Alternatively, you can go to a sumo heya, the place where rikishi train, to watch asageiko, the early morning practice sessions.There’s no better way to realize that you’re actually in Japan than by watching these larger-than-life legends battle it out!

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Sento: Relaxing Japanese Style J

apan is home to a wealth of leisure bathing facilities ranging from hot springs to large theme park-like baths. Among these are sento, easily accessible public baths with extremely large bathtubs, which are the face of public bathing in Japan. From the sticky months of summer to the frigid days of winter, sento with their unique architectural designs have popularized a style of public bathing that is the “culture of the general public,” an indispensable part of life in Japan, and one that has been passed down across time to today.

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Pleasure of General Public With evening twilight, there is a visible jump in the number of people ducking under the cloth curtain, or noren emblazoned with the word “hot water,” at the sento entrance. Once inside the entrance, they shed their shoes and step up to pay admission at the traditional counter or platform, known as a bandai, where the bath attendant sits. Today many sento facilities have opted to renovate their entrances with more modern counters, but many people still have a special place in their hearts for old-school bandai. The

entrance fee varies by area but for adults it will run between 300 yen and 450 yen. Once inside and disrobed, patrons put their clothes in a locker and proceed to the bath. Open the door and you will find a shiny tile floor, high ceilings to keep air circulating, and massive bathtubs filled with hot water. But simply racing to jump in the bath is a nono. First, etiquette calls for bathers to wash themselves well. Likewise, bathers are not to put their towels in the bathwater, which is why you see many people in the bath with their towels on their heads. Community baths charging admission for bathing trace their roots back to the first half of the 12th century. At that time, steam baths were the norm. Soaking in hot baths was a practice that first arrived on the scene in modern-day Tokyo during what was called the Edo period (1603-1867). Back then, the city of Edo and its citizens were buffeted by sea breezes carrying sand and dust. These baths were a way for people to clean off the grime each day and no doubt an essential and enjoyable part of each day. Across time, public baths have been home to lively conversations in, post-bathing games of shogi (Japanese chess) in the changing room or simply gazing at the scenic view of a garden. Public baths have offered a

space for people to relax and do as they like â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something that has clearly remained unchanged over hundreds of years.

Towering Paintings of Mt Fuji Visit a sento and you are likely to see a wall painted with a towering image of Mt Fuji. In fact, this custom is so pervasive that these paintings of Mt. Fuji are practically synonymous with sento. In the past, the walls of sento were used for advertising and it was at this time that sento, primarily in Tokyo, began to have their walls painted with images of Mt Fuji. Skilled painters would use four colors of paint to blend the necessary shades and with brushes and rollers finish the job in no time. Today there are only two painters in Tokyo that still paint such pictures. One construction style that is typical among sento is that of miya-tsukuri, or tiled roofs typically used for shrines. Originally adopted as a means of building sento in the early 20th century, this practice has been passed down as building structure for sento. In recent years, many sento have undergone renewals and been rebuilt as modern buildings. In Tokyo today, however, you can still find numerous bathhouses with architecture possessing this traditional elegance and flavor. At such places, it is easy to imagine how these stylishly built sento flourished as Contemporary Japan - 2016

a favorite form of leisure among the public for many years.

12 countries and territories, including Italy, France and Hong Kong.

Thermae Romae Boom

A “Base” for Runners

While many people with baths at home do enjoy a nice soak at a local sento, the proliferation of baths in the home has prompted a drop in the number of sento users. Likewise, after peaking at more than 20,000 in the 1960s, sento numbers have fallen to around 5,000 today.Sento, with their reputation as a place for the “culture of the general public,” have in recent years been reconsidered and taken on new meaning as they are appreciated from different angles. Spurring this popular rethinking of sento is the hit comic ThermaeRomae, which takes as its central theme the bath-loving culture of Japan and its people.

In addition, another factor helping to attract new customers to public baths in the heart of Tokyo is special “runners’ station” services catering to urban runners. Since the nation’s largest marathon, the Tokyo Marathon, with its field of 30,000 participants began in 2007, an unprecedented running boom has taken hold of the nation’s capital. Indeed, many runners who work in central Tokyo and aspire to run in the race train by running laps around the Imperial Palace. A shortage of places to change and clean up after a run has thrust sento into the limelight as a runner’s haven.

In the story, Lucius travels through space and time from ancient Rome to find himself in a modern-day Japanese bathhouse. Subsequently, he takes what he learns about sento and Japanese bath culture back to his own time and introduces it to ancient Rome. This story has prompted many young Japanese people to reconsider Japanese culture. The film is making waves both domestically and overseas. The film took the top box-office spot in Japan for the first half of the year after its release in April 2012. In addition, the film is to be released in 94

Contemporary Japan - 2016

Public baths in central Tokyo abound with conversations about running – with bathers being heard to say things such as “How many laps did you run?” and “I’ll have to try that.” Today the runner-heavy clientele of sento in central Tokyo has resulted in a new bathing environment where both runners and non-runners alike engage in fun and lively talk about racing and staying in shape. Today people in urban Japan are beginning to rediscover the allure of public baths, which offer both a great place to relax and one to socialize and exchange information.

Travelogue Japan a developed and modern nation

By Mujahid Iqbal

ven after having lived in Kuwait for more than a decade, I have never felt that I was living far away from Pakistan. Since the past eight years, I have had the opportunity to publish the annual ‘Japan Magazine’ in cooperation with the Japanese Embassy in Kuwait. During this period, I always longed to visit Japan, but was precluded due to my preoccupations. A few months ago, the General Manager of the company I work for, Mr. Irfan Nagra, expressed his desire to visit Japan for business and leisure. Thinking that two would be company, I readily agreed. Due to the good offices of Mr. Shinji Bastani, Cultural Attaché at the Embassy of Japan in Kuwait, visas were quickly obtained. However, Mr. Nagra had to go to Pakistan for personal reasons. As it would have been difficult for me to find time later, I decided to go ahead with my scheduled visit. Therefore, I boarded an Etihad Airways flight on May 24, 2015 to fly to Tokyo via Abu Dhabi. After a long flight, it was announced that we had reached our destination, and that we will be landing at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport. As luck would have it, our flight landed in the Land of the Rising Sun at daybreak. The sun was peering from between the clouds, and the blue water of 96

Contemporary Japan - 2016

the ocean was shimmering. Gazing at this beautiful spectacle, my desire to visit Japan was fulfilled. Mr. Arif Ali and Mr. Muhammad Aasim warmly welcomed me at the airport. Arif is a childhood friend, and is like a brother to me. When we entered professional life, he went to Japan, where he met and married a Japanese lady and started a business venture there. He requested me many times to come to Japan, but I could not arrive at a decision. I got an opportunity to come to Kuwait, but in spite of the distance that separated us, we stayed in touch with each other. Muhammad Aasim is Arif’s business partner; together, they run a pre-owned cars dealership.

Amazing Country Japan is an amazing country, leaving visitors from even developed countries, let alone developing nations, awestruck. When we left the airport, our car halted at a traffic signal. There, all of a sudden, my cell phone started emitting an alarm and the car started rocking. Arif explained that the alarm is an earthquake signal which, because of my cell phone’s roaming network service, had been activated.

Our car proceeded towards Ibaraki Prefecture, which is slightly more than an hour’s drive from Narita International Airport. Driving through the countryside, we could see paddy fields all around us, gently swaying in the wind. The beautiful houses, clean roads and calm environment had a soothing effect on my mind. We reached Handi restaurant, and were welcomed by the owner and his staff members. Piping hot rotis, naanparathas, kadhai chicken, raita and mutton dishes were laid out before us. It was afternoon by then, and we ate the delicacies on offer heartily, finally washing it down with tea. From there, we proceeded to Ibaraki, where Arif’s car yard is situated. He exports preowned cars and spare parts to a number of countries. He talked to his employees about the work they were engaged in, and after providing them directions, we left for Kawama. This is a residential area, where Muhammad Aasim’s house is situated. At the time of my visit, Aasim’s family was out of Japan, so my stay was arranged at his house. Both Arif and Aasim are very jovial and vivacious, due to which I never felt bored or lonely during my stay in Japan. The Japanese are modest, polite, respectful

and soft-spoken. Even the ‘global war against terrorism’ has not given birth to hatred and intolerance among the Japanese people.My amazement knew no bounds while roaming around in Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Asakasa, Akhiabara, Skytree, Noda city, Chiba Prefecture and Odiaba. To understand the reasons behind Japan’s progress and development, it is necessary to know its history.

Historical Perspective Situated far away from the historical and cultural capitals of the world, and unaware of the strides that humanity had taken in social development, Japan, for many long years, was untouched by the philosophy of Greece, the principles of governance of Babylon and Nineveh, the architecture of Egypt, the rule of law of Rome, the poetic tradition of Persia, and the spirituality of India. Scholars of social history are silent about developments on these fronts in Japan. After the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States of America in World War II and Japan’s humiliating defeat followed by the cultural and economic

onslaught of the United States on Japan and the spread of corporate culture the world over, Japan should have been swamped by the cultural, moral and economic values espoused by the West. However, my surprise knew no bounds while roaming around the streets of ultra-modern Tokyo. While foreign education systems and cultures wreaked havoc in many Asian communities, it also reduced them to become non-intellectuals and imitators. Why did all this not occur in Japan? Why is the global economy dominated by Japan? These questions frequently arouse in my mind during my stay in this country. Compared against any standard of progress, the Japanese people are a great nation. Even after losing a war and being occupied, how did Japan make such rapid progress? The answer to this is to be found in the 214 years of Japan’s history between 1633 CE and 1853 CE. This period is called “Sakoku”, which means “period of national isolation”. This was the period during which European powers entered many countries under the pretext of trade or missionary activity and gradually established their rule over them. These European powers included Spain, the Netherlands, Portugal, England and France. Foreign traders first

entered Japan in 1604 CE. Traders from the Netherlands received permission to trade with Japan in 1609 CE. These traders revealed that Spain and Portugal planned to attack Japan. This was done to gain the confidence of the Shogun, who was the de facto ruler of Japan.

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However, because of this information, the Shogun restricted the permission granted to the Dutch traders and limited their activities to Nagasaki. In 1613 CE, the British too were permitted to trade in Nagasaki. These traders indulged in missionary activities, converting simple Japanese folk to Christianity. It was because of this that 26 missionaries were hanged to death in Nagasaki in 1597 CE. Along with the British, Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch traders too carried out missionary activities. In 1633 CE, Japan imposed a ban on its nationals from travelling outside the country. Japanese nationals residing in foreign lands were barred from coming back to Japan in 1635 CE. Action was taken against Japanese nationals who had sworn allegiance to the Pope in Rome. In Shimabara, 30,000 Christians were killed. In 1641 CE, all ports trading with foreign countries were closed. Japan had decided to become completely self-reliant.

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Independent People It was because of these turn of events that the Japanese became an independent and self-respecting people. They understood that an honorable existence is possible even when cut off from all contact with the outside world. In fact, this allowed them to preserve their values and culture unalloyed. The Japanese brought more land under cultivation. Industries were set up, and fisheries and salt manufacturing received a fillip. Tokyo became a populous metropolis. During this period, the Japanese acquired two characteristics: industriousness and contentment. Bushido philosophy was born, which laid emphasis on loyalty, chivalry and honor. These values are to be found in the Japanese people to this day. Loyalty is one of the core values of the Japanese people. Even today, those found guilty of treachery or disloyalty sever their fingers and offer them to their spouse, friend or employer. Someone found guilty of disloyalty to a party or group is given a

dagger with which he stabs himself and commits suicide (hara-kiri/seppuku). The Japanese are not conversant with English, nor do they follow the British system of education. In spite of this, Japanese universities are of the highest global standards. Only a few signboards can be found in English, which have appeared during the last two decades; it is the Japanese language that is overwhelmingly used. Japan has a large stake in global trade â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Japanese say that there is no house in the world that does not contain at least one article manufactured in Japan. Looking at Tokyo city spread out before me from Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Skytree, I thought: had Japan not undergone this 214 year-seclusion, it would have given birth to intellectuals subservient to the West, who would have guided it towards a path of development paved with the values of Western civilization, as a result of which the Japanese people would have been as humiliated and poor as other peoples who lost all that they possessed by blindly aping the West.

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5 Famous Castles in Japan for Castle Lovers

There are over 25,000 castles both large and small in Japan’s history. Castles and ruins still stand in each of Japan’s regions. There are even castles that have been rebuilt and castles that have withstood time. We’ve carefully

Himeji Castle:

Japan’s 1st World Heritage Site In 1993, Himeji Castle was selected as Japan’s 1st World Cultural

Heritage Site. Since it has remained almost completely intact in its original form, it’s considered very valuable.It has earned the nickname “Shirasagi Castle”, or “White Egret Castle”, due to its enormous white exterior. Restoration was just finished in 2015, so now its beauty is even more radiant than ever.Japan’s castles have survived many wars. Himeji Castle was completed just after that war-torn period. You can see architectural techniques from that period in its construction. It’s not only beautiful, but also serves as a state-of-the-art stronghold. 100

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selected Japanese castles that are perfect for sightseers. They were selected based on their history, status, and beauty. You can’t go wrong with these castles!

Kumamoto Castle: A Castle Master’s Creation That No Weapon Could Touch Unlike Himeji Castle, Kumamoto Castle’s exterior is dyed in black.Kumamoto Castle was built by KiyomasaKatou, a courageous military general whose name remains well-known in Japan even today. He was best known for his castle construction techniques, and some of his castles still stand around the nation. Kumamoto Castle is considered his masterpiece.One of its key features is its stone wall made of stones stacked upon each other. This helped defend the castle from attacks. Kiyomasa’s stone walls were said to be so strong that hardly any attack could penetrate them.If you have the chance, you should see this masterpiece for yourself. Contemporary Japan - 2016

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Nijo Castle: The Beloved Residence of Shogun Nijo Castle is located in the heart of Kyoto. It’s easy to stop at on your sightseeing around Kyoto, which makes it one of the most conveniently located on our list. It doesn’t have towers, so it looks more like a large mansion than a castle.It’s no wonder that Edo period Shoguns usually stayed here when visiting Kyoto. Its interior contains murals and Japanese gardens, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy traditional Japanese culture.

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Shuri Castle: A Unique, Red Southern Castle Shuri Castle stands in southern Okinawa. Okinawa is also known as “Ryukyu”; here, you can enjoy a unique culture that is a bit different from Japanese culture.Ryukyu culture is reflected in Shuri Castle. It was built to look more like a Chinese castle than a Japanese one. You can’t see castles with this kind of vibrant red exterior anywhere else in Japan.Visit Shuri Castle for yourself to experience this one-of-akind Southern relic. So, are there any castles here that you want to go to? There are castles and ruins in just about every region of Japan. After you visit these major castles and learn how to observe castles, you should check out some of the minor ones as well.

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Takeda Castle: The Magical Castle in the Sky Unlike the other castles we’ve introduced so far, Hyogo prefecture’s Takeda Castle isn’t made up of magnificent buildings or towers.What remains is stone walls and the grass that has grown over them. Perhaps it’s more apt to call it “ruins” than a castle. 104

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However, that’s part of what makes it so magical and mysterious. Takeda Castle fans call it “The Castle in the Sky”. With clouds floating under it, it looks like it’s really floating! You can enjoy this kind of scenery because it’s located at the top of a mountain.

Itsukushima Shrine and the Island of Miyajima 2

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An island of natural beauty and history The island of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture is home to Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a World Heritage Site since 1996. To get there, I rode about four hours on a high-speed Shinkansen train from Tokyo to Hiroshima, then took a local train from there to the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gateway, Miyajima-guchi, about 30 minutes away. I arrived before oon, and someone told me about an old, reputable establishment near the ferry wharf. It serves anago meshi, a tasty Miyajima specialty featuring rice and sea eel, so I decided to eat before crossing over to the island. After lunch I took the ferry and soon approached, on my right, the shrineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immense torii gate, painted in vermilion. It took the ferry only about 10 minutes to reach the dock at Miyajima Wharf. I used the walkway along the seacoast toward the shrine and was soon greeted here and there by wild deer. The island, nestled on

1. These posts for the huge torii gate came from a camphor tree that was 500 to 600 years old when cut. 2. The brilliant vermilion pillars and beams add to the beauty of the East Corridor leading to the inner shrine. 3. A lush forest forms the backdrop to Itsukushima Shrineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sacred buildings which are reĂ&#x20AC;ected in the water at high tide. 4. Noh theater stage constructed in the 1600s. A ritual night Noh performance is presented every April. 5. Ferry on its way to Miyajima. When the tide is right it sails close to the large torii gate. 6. Grilled sea eel coated with a thick soy sauce Ă&#x20AC;avored sauce is placed on rice and served in a dish called anago meshi at Ueno Restaurant.

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Many deer live on Miyajima, and they have inspired the design of these souvenirs. Left: Earthenware bell (monkey riding a deer). Right: Wooden fork.

Small momiji manju sponge cakes come with many kinds of ÂżOOLQJ VXFK DV VZHHW EHDQ SDVWH sweet beans, custard, chocolate, and matcha green tea.

waters in this part of the Seto Inland Sea, has been revered as a god since ancient times. The shrine buildings are stupendous examples of architecture in a style dating back about 850 years. They were originally constructed under the orders of Taira no Kiyomori, the first man of military origin to hold political power in Japan. He had developed considerable economic influence through intensive trade with China, and the Seto Inland Sea was an extremely important maritime route for him. The island occupied a strategic position along the route, and he held strongly to the belief that the island was a sacred place for the god protecting navigation. The inner shrine standing today, reconstructed in the 16th century, is said to admirably depict the style of Kiyomoriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time. The inner shrine is the focal point for a number of shrine buildings that are oriented toward the sea and connected with roofed corridors extending like the wings of a bird. One central feature is a long platform facing the torii. At high tide, the vermilion shrine buildings seem to float on the water, and this, together with the green highlands forming a backdrop, creates a truly magnificent scene.

Mist over the Seto Inland Sea creates a dreamlike mood. People at the lookout showed their pleasure with the scene verbally and by clicking their camera shutters time after time

A shop called Shakushi no Ie offers many kinds of ladles, spatulas, and butter knives. You can have your name or a message you like inscribed on a small ladle-shaped strap for your cellphone.

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If you visit at low tide you can walk out to the torii. It is 16 meters tall and stretches out 24 meters. Stand under it and look straight upâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it has a special force and presence of its own. At 5 tons its weight defies the buoyant effect of water, and its stability against the force of water and gravity are part of its magical effect. After I paid my respects to the shrine I decided to climb to the highest point on Miyajima, Mount Misen. The entire mountain was revered, and today a lush virgin forest remains on its slopes. In autumn the leaves add color and beauty at Momijidani Park, and near there is the base for a ropeway system. It will take you up into the air and to the final station at the top, in about 20 minutes. Near there is the Shishiiwa Lookout, offering a fine view of islands in the inland sea. I came down Mount Misen and strolled to the Omotesando walkway leading to the shrine. It is lined with shops selling souvenirs and small restaurants. forever-favorite souvenir from Miyajima is momiji manju, small sponge cakes in the shape of momiji maple leaves with a sweet bean paste or some other ingredient stuffed

On the Omotesando walkway leading to the shrine, a bride and groom happened to go by on a rickshaw, coming from a wedding most likely at Itsukushima Shrine.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Grilling oysters must

be done just right,â&#x20AC;? says Yamada of the restaurant Miyajima no Kaki-kun. This is the only place where you can get oyster gratin, an opportunity not to be misse

in the dough before baking. Many shops along the walkway bake the cakes right there, giving you an opportunity you will not want to miss. Another popular souvenir is Miyajima shamoji ice scoops, said to bring good luck. Specialty shops on the walkway have scoops for everyday use, of course, but also a lineup with a wish inscribed on them, like Shobai Hanjo (â&#x20AC;&#x153;success in businessâ&#x20AC;?) and Kanai Anzen (â&#x20AC;&#x153;safety in the homeâ&#x20AC;?). â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can inscribe names on them right here,â&#x20AC;? says one salesperson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People from other countries often ask us to write their name on one inkanji characters.â&#x20AC;? I left the shop and walked a bit further, then noticed a nice smell wafting y way from

Getting there

somewhere. Oysters were being grilled on an open flame in a small shop. They live in the sea close to the island and have added to its fame. I wasted no time ordering some, and they made a light feast, breaking up my stroll perfectly. The sun was sinking, letting Miyajima wrap itself in the mood of twilight. This gave the shrine a different kind of eloquence. After sunset and until 11:00 pm, the immense torii and shrine buildings are illuminated, making them float above the dark sea in a surreal tableau. Before headingfor my lodging, I faced the shrine and put my hands together in prayer, giving thanks for the day I had spent with the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gods.

From Narita International Airport (Tokyo), take the Narita express to Tokyo Station (about 1 hr). From there, about 4 hours on a Tokaido- Sanyo 6KLQNDQVHQ WUDLQ WR +LURVKLPD 6WDWLRQ ,I \RX ZDQW WR Ă&#x20AC;\ DERXW PLQ from Haneda Airport (Tokyo) to Hiroshima Airport, then about a 50-min. bus ride to Hiroshima Station). From Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-guchi Station on the JR Sanyo Line, about 30 min. Then take the Miyajima ferry (about 10 min).

After the hustle and bustle on the otesando walkway, it is nice to slip into the tranquility of achiya-dori Street, once a busy place LWVHOI ,Q WKH EDFNJURXQG VWDQGV D ÂżYH VWRULHG pagoda constructed in 1407

The immense torii gate is illuminated after dusk. Sometimes boats slip under its arch at high tide.

For more info

0L\DMLPD RIÂżFLDO WRXULVP ZHEVLWH (Chinese, English, French, German, and Korean): http://visit-miyajima-japan.com/ Miyajima Tourist Association website (Chinese, English, French, German, and Korean): http://www.miyajima.or.jp/

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Where to shop ‘If you want to see into the future, Akihabara (also known as ‘Electric Town’), is the place to head’

Akihabara at night

Shoppers will find a huge range of choice in Japan - from ultra- modern malls in the big cities to superb handcrafts (don’t leave without picking up some Kyushu pottery) in the countryside. Tokyo

Shopping in Tokyo is a pastime, obsession and way of life. Consumerism is by no means a dirty word and whether it’s designer goods, rare records, Manga collectables or must-have gizmos that you crave, there’s a shopping district for you. Before you dive in, there are a handful of things to bear in mind. Tokyo is not a cheap city and you aren’t going to find many bargains on these crowded streets. Electronics are particularly expensive and perversely enough many Japanese brands are actually cheaper outside of the country. Still, Japan gets it first and if you want to see into the future, Akihabara (also known as ‘electric town’), is the place to head – although if you go beyond windowshopping, take care to ensure that the gadgets are compatible with the electrical supply in your home country. Buying clothing in Japan can be problematic if you are anything above super thin and on the short side. Clothes are smaller overall, with sleeve-length being particularly on the un-generous side. Things are changing slowly, particularly in the trendier, more internationally-focused stores, but don’t feel

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too depressed if you end up taking home an XXL. The mega malls have landed in Tokyo, changing the way the Japanese like to shop. The two kingpins are Midtown and Roppongi Hills, both of which draw hordes of shoppers out to the previously slightly down market district of Roppongi. Even outside of these colossaplexes, Japanese department stores manage to tick a remarkable number of boxes – offering ticket agencies, currency exchanges and gourmet food courts. Department store layouts tend to be fairly standardised, with food stores and stalls in the basement, cosmetics on the first floor (the Japanese don’t use the term ‘ground floor’) and restaurants on the top floor. Between them come fashion, luggage, stationery, kitchenware, electronics, textiles and art and craft offerings. Star your shopping tour in Ginza, the beating heart of Tokyo’s consumer culture. _e eight-block area is home to over 10,000 shops including the flagships of big brands such as Chanel, Maison Hermès and Mikimoto. They are all seemingly in a constant game of one-upmanship, trying to outdo each other with their increasingly

outlandish facades. The babbling screens and gold wash may be gaudy, but they’re effective, drawing in the city’s gold cardholders like moths to neon. Even if you’re not out to splash the cash, the area has plenty to offer, with smaller crafts shops lining the backstreets. The wide streets are perfect for window shoppers, but if you really value your personal space then visit after noon on weekends the cars are banned from the main street Chuo Dori leaving room for the serious shoppers. The first particular highlight to watch out for is Mitsukoshi, Japan’s oldest chain store, whose history dates back as far as 1673. The Ginza store (46-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, 03-3562-1111) offers 12 floors of wares, making it brilliant for browsing. You should also make sure to visit Wako, whose talismanic clock tower façade has become Ginza’s trademark. The store, one of Ginza’s most prestigious, stands on the junction of Chuo and Harumi Dori. While the rich go to Ginza, most mere mortals settle for Shinjuku, whose department stores are still luxurious, but not as elitist. The first place to check out is Don Quixote, or Donki to its regulars, a

High-end shopping in Ginza bargain-seekers palace that encourages you to roll up your sleeves and delve in. There’s little logic to the layout, and electrical goods, toys and all manner of foodstuffs are thrown together seemingly at random. Still, that’s half the fun. There are branches across Japan, but the Shinjuku store (1-165 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, 03-5291-9211/ www.donki.com) is the best. Tokyo’s hippest department store, Isetan, (14-1, Shinjuku 3chome, Shinjuku, 03-33521111/www.isetan.co.jp), now occupies eight buildings in the neighborhood. Thankfully both the menswear and women wear departments carry larger sizes for those who find Japanese measurements a little snug. Finally, while you’re in Shinjuku, don’t miss out on a trip to Otakibashi Dori, which has a clutch of specialist record stores. The shopping scenes of Roppongi and Marunouchi are dominated by Tokyo’s two mini cities of spending – Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. Roppongi Hills revolutionised Tokyo’s shopping scene when it opened in 2003. The shopping and entertainment complex has over 200 shops and restaurants, a hotel (the Grand Hyatt), a multiplex, a TV studio, a gallery (the excellent Mori Art Museum) and Tokyo City View, Tokyo’s best observation deck (6-10 Roppongi, Minato-ku, 03-6406-6000/www. roppongihills.com).

Tokyo Midtown (9-7-1 Akasaka, Minatoku, 03-3475-3114/www.tokyo-midtown. com) also has an impressive array of shops and restaurants (over 300 of them), an art space (20_20 Design Sight), a hotel (The Ritz Carlton Tokyo) and tall tower (albeit without the viewing platform). The main difference is a more logical layout, meaning you are unlikely to get as lost as you will when you’re out walking in the Hills. Harajuku (along neighbouring Shibuya) is the epicentre of the Tokyo teen scene. Here you’ll find the outlandish, the daring and the downright crazy. Takeshita Dori and Cat Street are the focal points - these narrow pedestrianised lanes of clothes shops and crepe stands are a solid mass of well-dressed humanity at weekends. In the rest of the neighborhood things become a little more civilised with international stores and a clutch of malls. If you are looking for gifts, the basement of the Hanae Mori building (Hanae Mori Building, 3-6-11 Kita Aoyama, 03 423 1448) is a souvenir hunter’s paradise with more than 30 antique shops hawking everything from Echizen-ware vases to Woodblock prints. A great one-stop souvenir shop, Oriental Bazaar (Oriental Bazaar, 5-9-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, 03 33400-3933) can get a little kitschy in places, but the sheer volume of

kimonos, chopsticks and yukata means there are diamonds amongst the more touristy items. After picking up some knickknacks, move on to RIN (3-6-26, Kita-aoyama, Minato-ku, 03-6418-7020/www.rin.smrj. go.jp), a concept store which brings the best of rural Japan to a corner of Kita-aoyama. Goods are sourced from artisans across all of Japan’s islands and items initially sell for two weeks, with the most popular staying and the others making way for new arrivals. Upstairs there’s a great café that offers sells foodstuffs from around the country. Finally, no shopping trip to Tokyo is complete without a visit to Shibuya. A fast, fun and affordable part of town, it caters for all tastes: there’s Hanchiko, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing; Centre Gai, a small street that serves as a catwalk for Tokyo’s teen trendsetters; arts centres and malls to suit any colour of credit card. While you’re here, make sure to pop in to Tokyu Hands (12-18 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, 03-5489-111/www.tokyuhands.co.jp) - the largest household goods store in Japan, it has plenty for the curious visitor. The place is packed with knickknacks, stationery, luggage, bikes, t-shirts, toys and games, all at excellent value prices.

Nagoya

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Asakusa and Mukojima Snacks and Rambles in Yesteryear Tokyo Photos by Ito Chiharu Map by Oguro Kenji

A 10-minute walk from Oshiage Station brings you to Jikken-bashi Bridge over the Kita Jikken-gawa River, a great spot to see the reflected sakasa (upside down) Tokyo Skytree.

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Above right: This yokan jelly highlights the fragrance of sweet potato. (By Funawa Honten Co., Ltd.) Left: Ningyo-yaki sponge cakes come in shapes such as a five-storied pagoda or pigeon. (By Kimura-ya Honten)

1. Nakamise Market is often crowded. About 90 shops line both sides of the pedestrian way. 2. The lantern under Kaminari-mon Gate weighs 700 kg. It is 3.9 meters in height and 3.3 meters in diameter. 3. The Main Hall of Senso-ji Temple is dedicated to Kanzeon Bosatsu, the bodhisattva of mercy and compassion. 4. The incense cauldron in front of the Main Hall is always an attraction. According to tradition, fanning the smoke toward a part of your body that ails will bring relief.

Tokyo Skytree is currently the world’s tallest freestanding tower. It stands near Asakusa and Mukojima, two of Tokyo’s best tourist destinations, which are more popular than ever since the tower opened in May 2012. The two districts face each other across the Sumida River. The area offers the taste experiences of working-class people whose culture helped define the Edo period (1603- 1867). That was when Japan’s political life became centered on the metropolis now called

Tokyo. Tokyo’s traditional snacks are known for being simple and unpretentious yet quite substantial. The preeminent icon of the Asakusa district is the Kaminari- mon Gate, which guards Senso-ji Temple. Pass through it and you are in the Nakamise Market, a long walkway lined with shops leading to the temple. Busy since the Edo period, it is one of Japan’s oldest shopping districts. Here you will see handcrafts and souvenirs for sale, along with many kinds of specialty snacks and sweet foods. Contemporary Japan - 2016

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Far left: Hands-on experience making kaminariokoshi, at Tokiwado Kaminariokoshi Honpo Co., Ltd. The business was established 250 years ago. Mix together a starchy syrup and sugar, add peanuts, then simmer. Steam rice, dry it, then mash and roast it. Next, add the rice to the simmered mixture, then place in a mold. Cut into pieces suitable for eating and serve. Left and below: Photos show ingredients for making kaminari-okoshi, and the final product.

Here at Ichiban-ya, expert confectioners make senbei rice crackers and serve them just off the grill.

These include imo-yokan (a simple treat made from steamed, solidified sweet potato paste), ningyo-yaki (sponge cake in shapes like the five-storied pagoda and pigeons associated with the temple nearby), and senbei crackers (made by rolling out rice flour and then baking it with a little soy sauce for added flavor). Once you pass through the market you will find yourself gazing up at the pagoda on your left, before entering the inner grounds of the temple. In front of you stands the main building where people pay their respects. When this little ceremony is done, you may want to stroll to the confectionery stall behind the pagoda, which is known for selling kaminari-okoshi. You will enjoy the

Left: When Chomei-ji Sakura-mochi first came on the market in Old Japan, cherry tree leaves were gathered from the banks of the Sumida River in the Asakusa district, pickled in salt after a good washing, and then wrapping around mochi rice cakes containing bean paste. Above: Kototoi Dango bean paste balls with three types of flavorings: red adzuki beans, white kidney beans, and brown miso.

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The mood in the restaurant is relaxing, and the steamed kuzu-mochi rice cakes have a special taste all their own, topped off with a sprinkling of fragrant toasted soybean flour and black molasses. (By Funabashi-ya Kameido Tenjin-mae Honten)

A water bus takes tourists down the umida River to Tokyo’s busy port, about 40 minutes away.

crunchy texture and rich, sweet taste of these morsels of roasted, steamed rice held together with a sticky candy. You can even try to make some here, too. Take one of the specially designed cans to put them in and take with you—a great souvenir idea. After your confectionery adventure, avoid the bustle of Nakamise Market and ramble instead toward the Sumida River, with Tokyo Skytree dominating the sky above. On the other side of the river is the Mukojima district, where many other famous sweet foods await. Sakura-mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in cherry tree

leaves) and colorful dango (dumpling-like sweets) are just two of the delights sold here by long-established shops. If you walk on a little further you will come to Kameido Tenjin Shrine, where you can try kuzu-mochi (a steamed cake made from fermented wheat). It is semi-transparent, refreshingly cool, springy in texture, and fun to bite off in small pieces. After getting a taste of Tokyo’s sweet-town, you might want to go back to the river and take a water bus downstream from Asakusa to Tokyo›s busy port—a fun, 40-minute jaunt that passes under several bridges.

Getting there

From Narita International Airport, take the Narita Sky Access Express (about 1 hr), or a limousine bus (about 120 min)

For more info

“Asakusa-Sightseeing” website (about 80 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Korean, Russian and Spanish): http://asakusa-kankou.com/ “Visit Sumida” website (English, Chinese and Korean) http://visit-sumida.jp/

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Gate Tower Building With a Highway Through it

ne of the most curious building in Japan is the Gate Tower Building in Osaka, Japan. The 5th, 6th and 7th floors of this 16-story office building are occupied by an express highway - passing right through the building. On the building’s floor information board on the ground floor, the tenants for the three floors are listed as the Hanshin Expressway. You can’t alight there tough as the elevator skips from the 4th floor to straight to the 8th. The Gate Tower Building is actually the result of an unusual compromise between the land owner and the Japanese government. The land had been occupied by a wood and charcoal processing company since the early Meiji period, but the gradual move to

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other sources of fuel resulted in the deterioration of those company buildings. In 1983, the redevelopment of the area was decided upon, but building permits were refused because the highway was already being planned to be built over this land. The property rights’ holders refused to give up, and negotiated with the Hanshin Expressway Corporation for approximately 5 years to reach the current solution. Aside from the intrusive highway, business at the Gate Tower Building is almost normal. The highway does not make contact with the building, and a structure surrounding the highway keeps noise and vibration out.

The

Real Japan If

you

want

experience

authentic Japan, escape the cities for the countryside. Natasha Blair takes the bullet train two hours north of Tokyo to the little-known Tohoku region.

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SANDAI The city of Sendai is a stop along the ‘bullet’ train and is an ideal base for making day trips within the Tohoku region. Although I seldom eat meat, I tasted the city’s great claim to fame, ‘beef tongue’, which is a food delicacy served in many different ways. Travellers should book bullet train seats in advance. Although there are a fair few English speakers in Sendai, travellers will face serious language barriers as they venture further out, and signs will only be in Japanese.

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MATSUSHIMA Matsushima is considered one of the three most beautiful spots in Japan, and there are hopes that it will be nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. All the visitor attractions are within walking distance of the train station. Matsushima is famous for the more than 260 islands of varying shapes and sizes, many covered in pine trees. To really appreciate the many diverse islands I took a ride on a 50-minute pleasure boat ride with English-speaking commentary. Oysters are cultivated here, and between October and March, tourists can enjoy at sample at an oyster hut called Kakigoya. Not far from the bay, the Entsuin Temple has very pretty gardens, planted to retain their beauty throughout the year. For a small contribution, visitors can make a bracelet from Buddhist prayer beads, which are said to drive away evil spirits.

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HIRAIZUMI From Matushima, another bullet train travels to what was once the ancient capital of Hiraizumi, 130 m above sea level. Dating back to the 11th century, the town has been designated a National Treasure and is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must seeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for its 18 temples. The most impressive Chusonji Temple has an ornate gilded interior and is filled with gold statues. The Japanese are very superstitious, and many of the temples offer tokens and fortunes on pieces of paper for visitors. Fortunately mine had good news but those that are not are left attached to a shrine. Geibi Gorge Perhaps the most magical part of the trip for me was the 90-minute ride in a traditional Japanese wooden boat through the Geibi Gorge, which has been carved out of limestone by the Satetsu River. For 2 km, it twists and turns through cliffs that soar up to over 80 m on either side. Some tour guides will sing a Japanese folk song, which is particularly haunting because of the surrounding acoustics. The fish are so accustomed to being fed that they jump out of the clear water.

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KAKUNODATE The castle town of Kakunodate, a day trip from Sendai, can be traced back to the 1600s during the height of the Samurai reign. The wellconserved streets and the traditional thatched roof architecture makes entering this city feel like stepping into a different world. Several of the houses have been turned into museums, and the Aoyagi Samurai Manor museum is one of the most well-preserved Samurai residences in Japan, featuring a collection of swords, helmets and guns that date back to the 15th century. In the Kakunodate Densyokan museum I watched a skilled Kabazaiku craftsman painstakingly cut a piece of polished mountain cherry bark. The variety of handmade items, from furniture to tea kettles, make for unique although rather expensive gifts. The area is also famous for its 400 cherry trees that blossom in late April.

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HOT SPRINGS Japan is a volcanic country, and bathing in hot springs is a large part of the culture. Although most hot springs have accommodation, styles can differ considerably and it is worth investigating what level of privacy you want. The healing properties of the springs will also vary according to the composition of the waters. The springs, which can be indoor or outdoor, are usually mixed gender, and as a general rule, no clothing or swimwear is permitted.

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LAKE TAZAWA

JAPANESE FOOD

This beautiful destination is worth an extended stay for a relaxing break from travelling. Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deepest lake is surrounded by mountains and lush greenery which turns brilliant auburn and golden in autumn. A gold statue of Tatsuko, a girl who believed that the lake would give her eternal beauty and youth, dominates the skyline. The Tazawako Lakeside Hotel offers an authentic Japanese experience. Shoes must be removed before treading on the tatami matting and dining takes place a low table where visitors are obliged to sit cross legged. The hotel offers the option of European-style beds or traditional bedrooms, with removable futons and open dining space inside the room. The basement of the hotel has hot springs, which have been turned into a large pool area.

There are a few things every traveller should know about Japanese dining. All courses are served simultaneously and can be eaten in any order. Food is eaten with chopsticks, and served in small dishes, although knives and forks are often available. Meals almost always include miso soup and rice. Many different varieties of mushrooms are widely used and soy sauce will be served on the side to provide a more intense flavour. While sushi and sashimi are synonymous with Japanese food, there are lots of other dishes too.

I also visited Tsurunoyu Onsen, formally a Samurai inn hidden in the mountains, not far from Lake Tazawa. Here is a totally authentic experience with lots of different hot springs. There is a natural outdoor pool, and the hot steam looked particularly inviting. As a whole, a visit to Lake Tazawa is an elegantly simple and romantic spot.

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Cosplay

lmost all, at least 98.5% should

Costumes

know what this means. For the

speaking the largely homemade or custom-

other 1.5%, it breaks down like

ordered gear spans the breadth of Japanese

this: Cos = costume; play = play. It means

and American anime/animation (with the

playing dress-up like we did as kids, except

former being dominant), includes a healthy

cosplay happens way, way past puberty,

dose of video game heroes and villains, and

is often public, and is social/communal.

lastly, is well-inhabited by comic book and

Cosplay doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a really specific place

manga characters (which of course overlap

of origin, but most would say it began sort

with the anime/animation). Basically, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

of concurrently as an American/Japanese

anytime-doable Halloween.

phenomenon, then went global. 126

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vary

widely,

but

generally

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