WAttention Malaysia vol 7 by WAttention

Winter Issue 2013 VOL.7

Experience Memorable Winter in Japan

OMOTESANDO

– A SHOWCASE OF TRENDS, GOURMET DELIGHTS, AND CULTURE

WELCOME TO JAPAN YOU NEVER KNEW TOHOKU – A GUIDE TO MEMORABLE WINTER IN NORTHERN TOHOKU – SKIING WITH THE SNOW MONSTERS

EXPERIENCE JAPAN WITH JAPANICAN

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In Ha r mony w it h t he Sea sons At the start of the New Year January 1

1月1日

New Year’s in Japan starts with “house cleaning” after the middle of the previous December. With today’s calendar, this day falls on the 13th of December. This is when the soot that has been accumulated over the course of the year is tidied up and once the house becomes clean again, rice cakes and other sweets are put up in appreciation to the house itself, along with prayers for another safe year to come. People then busy themselves preparing New Year cards, shopping for New Year decorations, and planning osechi ryori, customary dishes that are served at the start of the New Year. Osechi ryori is served from New Year’s Eve through the first three days

of the New Year. It comes from consideration for the women of the house, so they wouldn’t need to stand in a cold winter kitchen and cook for their families. It also originates in an intention to allow Kamagami, the deity of fire, to take a break. It was the only time of the year when women could be freed from the majority of their chores. Once the New Year has arrived, the mochi rice cakes and vegetables that have been put up for the Gods are removed and zoni, soup with mochi, is prepared. This first fire to be lit in the New Year had originally been kindled with lucky flames received at a shrine, and the soup had been made with the first batch of water pumped. Families

楽しむ

お正月新しい年の初めに

A custom used to be observed where families would make rounds of the homes of friends, taking along gifts wrapped with New Year greetings once everything was done at home. New Year’s greetings are lucky items, and, similarly to otoshidama, money given to children as presents at New Year’s, they originate in mochi rice cakes, in which a deity has been believed to exist.

こよみを

text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Hajime Watanabe 文とスタイリング＝井戸理恵子、写真＝渡辺肇

would traditionally gather around the hearth where the deity of the house was believed to exist, and they would celebrate the New Year while enjoying the zoni. Times have since changed, and people no longer embrace the belief in the existence of the soul of the house, and zoni is prepared in a kitchen as is any other dish. Rieko Ido Conducting research into Japanese customs and knowledge from ancient times, and applying technical analysis of these findings to modern lifestyle. Kokugakuin University graduate. Teaches at Tama Art University.

井戸理恵子國學院大學卒業。日本古来の知見を工学的に検証し次世代に繋がる「技術」を模索、現代の衣食住を発展させる提案をしている。多摩美術大学非常勤講師。

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Wonderland Japan VOL. 7

A SHOWCASE OF TRENDS, GOURMET DELIGHTS, AND CULTURE

OMOTESANTO 表参道の魅力

In Harmony with the Seasons

Omotesando –A Showcase of Trends,

Gourmet Delights and Culture

Three Malls in Omotesando You Don’t Want to Miss!

A hub for the latest trend,

Omotesando Hills is a media in itself

Publisher Shuji Ozawa FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. E09-09, 9th Floor, Menara Melawangi, Amcorp Trade Centre, 18 Jalan Persiaran Barat, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603-7932 3138 E-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com Editor in Chief Kunio Yasui Partners WAttention Co., Ltd Daily Information Co., Ltd (DAC Group)

35 Years together with a history of fashion

Fashion themed park featuring the latest trends

Finding the very essence of WA in Omotesando!

Tohoku Winter – Snow White and 7 Great Activities

Cover Photo Snow Monsters

Experience Japan with JAPANiCAN

Go Beyond Travel Guides and Discover Gems

Photo Courtesies Hajime Watanabe Charles Chen

in Chiba & Ibaraki

Why “WAttention”? WAttention is so named with the hope that people in the world would pay more “Attention” to “WA（和）”; an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself! 世界中の人々に「和」（WA）に注目（Attention）してほしいという願いを込めてWA+Attention= WAttentionと名づけました。

WAttention Malaysia Department Kunio Yasui ··· Marketing, Advertising Sales Johnathan Choe ··· Graphic Designer Alex Ortega ··· Co-ordinator Calvin Tan ··· Co-ordinator

本誌に関する日本国内でのお問い合わせ先和テンション株式会社 Tel: +81-3-6418-5701 Fax: +81-3-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com

WATTENTION is a publication of FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonafide information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law. The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher. Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher. This publication and the name are owned solely by FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., E09-09, 9th Floor, Menara Melawangi, Amcorp Trade Centre, 18 Jalan Persiaran Barat, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Email: yasui@flp-yomiko.com. WATTENTION is published bimonthly and distributed throughout Malaysia. Trademarks and copyrights for all other products, logos and depictions contained herein are the properties of their respective trademark and copyright owners. Printing by Yamagata (M) Sdn Bhd Licence No. 219625-T Lot P.T. 1661, Nilai Industrial Estate, P.O.Box 9, 71809 Nilai, Negeri Semilan

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OMOTESANDO A SHOWCASE OF TRENDS,GOURMET DELIGHTS, AND CULTURE

T O D

Do to Ha

Heading toward Meiji Shrine across streets aligned with elm-like zelkova trees, Omotesando is a popular area for taking refreshing walks. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great place to experience Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest fashions, its gourmet offerings, and Japanese culture. To commemorate the second anniversary of WAttention, located on a street corner in Omotesando, here is an introduction to the pleasures that the area has to offer. cards are accepted at Omotesando Hills, Laforet Harajuku & Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/ Harajuku

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Omotesand

THREE MALLS in OMOTESANDO YOU DON’T WANT to MISS! Don’t have enough time, but still want to see Omotesando? Then head to Omotesando Hills, Laforet HARAJUKU and Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/ Harajuku. The hottest Tokyo fashions and trends are right here waiting for you!

Lined with zelkova trees on both sides of the street, Omotesando is such a pleasant area that makes you forget you are in the city. From top boutique brands to cafes as well as Japanese style shops, this is the place to see the hottest trends in Tokyo. Take a stroll from the main boulevard to the side streets, and you’ll discover a range of trendy cafes, restaurants, galleries, as well as small boutique shops selling cute original merchandise. With so many attractions, you will need at least one full day to Opened in 2006, Omotesando Hills is a cultural/commercial complex with six floors above the ground and fully enjoy the area. For those short on six underground floors. Its facade extends 250 meters on Omotesando Boulevard, which links Omotesando subway station to Meiji shrine. The complex features more than 100 shops covering a great range of time, here are the must-gos: Omotesando consumer needs, as well as spaces for hosting events. If you have a keen eye for fashion, be sure to check Hills, Laforet HARAJUKU and Tokyu out Omotesando Hills as it is one of the fashion hubs of Tokyo. Apart from shops and restaurants, concierge Plaza Omotesando/Harajuku. You will services are available from Hills Concierge. Admiring its architecture is also recommended. certainly be satisfied even within a few •Hours: Shops 11am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm), Restaurants 11am-11:30pm (Sundays till 10:30pm) Cafes 11am-10:30pm (Sundays till 9:30pm) •Address: 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku hours. In addition, you can enjoy limited•Access: 2 mins walk from Omotesando station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Chiyoda line, and time-only illumination Hanzomon line. 3 mins walk from Meiji-jingumae “Harajuku” station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line along the streets. This and Fukutoshin line. 7 mins walk from JR Harajuku station. •URL: www.omotesandohills.com year, the streets will be lit up from Nov 28, 2013 to Jan 5, 2014. If you are Omotesando Hills CHRISTMAS 2013 11/6 (WED) - 12/25 (WED) here at the right time, Be enchanted by a 14-metre tall illuminated visual art Christmas Tree. Adding make sure you don’t miss to the festive spirits, an illumination show combining moving images and this joyful moment. music will be playing every 20 minutes. Taken in 2010

OMOTESANDO HILLS

LAFORET HARAJUKU

2 3 Since its opening in 1978, Laforet HARAJUKU has always been at the forefront of fashion. Aiming to reflect contemporary culture by means of fashion, Laforet has played a leading role in transmitting the newest trends to youngsters, in the forms of fashion, music, and dramas. Always packed with the trendiest shops and several limitedtime-only shops, no wonder customers have a pleasant surprise every time they visit Laforet. This is the place to go for the latest fashion!

2014 FUKUBUKURO SALES 1/1 (WED) - 1/3 (FRI) A Japanese New Year custom, Fukubukuro is a bag of random merchandises sold at substantial discount. What’s special about Laforet’s Fukubukuro is that you get to know the contents beforehand so you can choose what you want!

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•Hours: 11am-8pm •Address: 1-11-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •Access: 1 min walk from Meijijingumae station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Fukutoshin line. 5 mins walk from JR Harajuku station. •URL: www.laforet.ne.jp/en

TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ HARAJUKU

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/Harajuku (opened in 2012) is a fashion theme park offering every customer the trendiest fashion. Every time you come here, you will be surprised with new discoveries. The mall features various shops and spaces of fashion and culture from Japan and around the world. On the rooftop, you can take a walk on the terrace and feel the changing seasons in Omohara no Mori.

OMOHARA WHITE CHRISTMAS 11/1 (FRI) - 12/25 (WED) An illumination show will take place on the rooftop OMOHARA Forest from Nov 1st to Dec 25th. Special event featuring snow, as well as limited-time-only sales of Christmas and party items is also worth a visit. *Illumination starts from Nov 5th

•Hours: Shops 11am-9pm, Restaurants 8:30am-11pm •Address: 4-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •Access: 1 min walk from Meiji-jingumae station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Fukutoshin line. 4 mins walk from JR Harajuku station. 7 mins walk from Omotesando station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Chiyoda line, and Hanzomon line. •URL: http://omohara.tokyu-plaza.com/en/?link_id=lang_en

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A hub for the latest trend, Omotesando Hills is a media in itself All sorts of shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as services are available here.

PASS THE BATON West Wing B2F

Pass the baton, the name says it all. You must have some items imbued with personal memories that are hard to say goodbye to. What if these objects of memory are passed on to someone who would cherish them? Like passing the baton to the next person. Or call it New Recycle. That’s the concept behind this modern recycle shop. Goods collected from individuals are afﬁxed with their proﬁles and stories. There is also a good selection of dead stock items with sense and ingenuity. Facilities include a gallery and a counter for accepting personal item submissions. (Handkerchief on the middle left: 735 yen. Tableware on the middle right: 1,344 yen~)

Opened in 2006, Omotesando Hills is a cultural/commercial complex like no other in the world. It has three underground and three aboveground ﬂoors stretching out in a vertical space featuring a spiral slope ramp extending 700 meters long. A variety of cultural events are held at SPACE O, an event space covering an area of around 550 square meters. The environmentally conscious architecture was designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando and has attracted global attention and customers seeking urban lifestyles. Featuring about 100 shops that would satisfy any fashion sensitive customer, Omotesandoo Hills also opened a ﬂoor for kids in 2009.

Started from Omotesando in 1983, the cosmetics of shu uemura have become the admiration for women around the world. Especially in the flagship boutique Omotesando Hills shop, the globally praised hair care series are highly riveted. At the special eyebrow care corner, you can receive professional advice and take home the eyebrow mascara for 3,150 yen. The long seller cleansing oil (150 ml) is 2,940. You can also ﬁnd hair care items (Art of Hair) that are only available at Omotesando Hills (3,885 yen~6,195 yen) •Hours: 11am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm) •TEL: 03-3486-0048 •URL: www.shuuemura.jp/brand/shop/ omotesando

cards are accepted at Omotesando Hills

Edition Main Building 2F Gentle lighting, pleasing music, and a whiff of old material combine to soothe your ﬁve senses in a modern space offering you a wide selection of original and imported wears and goods. A select shop for true grownups with a playful mentality and enriching lifestyles. (Short coat: 73,500 yen. Leather jacket: 99,750 yen. Long coat: 61,950 yen.)

•Hours: 11am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm) •TEL: 03-3403-8086 •URL: www.edition-jp.com/index.html

YASAIYA・Mei

•Hours: 11am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm) •TEL: 03-6447-0707 •URL: www.pass-the-baton.com

shu uemura

OMOTE SANDO HILLS

Main Building 3F

West Wing 1F

Aiming to treat customers with cuisines containing genuine flavors, chef Akira Watanabe has traveled all around Japan to learn and ﬁnd ingredients that will make you say: “Wow, these tastes like really fresh vegetables”. Surely you body and soul will be energized upon tasting these fresh vegetables grown by local farmers. Farmers’ Bagna càuda for two people (top left): 1,600 yen. Mr. Watanabe really loves vegetables (top right). Fresh vegetables delivered from contract farms all over Japan every morning (middle). •Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-11:30pm (L.O. 10:30pm) Sun 11am-10:30pm (L.O. 9:30pm) (day) •TEL: 03-5785-0606 •URL: http://eat-walk.com/mei/

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Omotesand

35 years together with a history of fashion Want to know what’s hot in the edgy world of fashion? Then come over to Laforet HARAJUKU. Be sure to check out the limited-time-only shops and events.

CAFE CREPE

Hills

Almost anyone coming to the town would have tried the crepes at CAFE CREPE once or twice. The crepe shop has been here since 1977, one year before Laforet HARAJUKU opened. There are about 100 types of crepes (250~750 yen). The most popular is the Banana Choco Whip Cream (as in the photo, 390 yen). CAFE CREPE also has Chicken Cobb Salad (580 yen) and Avocado Shrimp Salad (580 yen), which gives you some good options for lunch. The shop also has seasonal menus, and frozen items (from 450 yen) are popular in summer. •Hours: 11am-9:30pm •TEL: 03-3497-0030 •URL: www.cafe-crepe.co.jp

WALL

Standing at the corner of an intersection, Laforet HARAJUKU has been the bellwether of young fashion and at the center of the latest edgy fashion for more than 35 years. There are more than 120 shops scattered from B1F to 5F, covering a great range of cafés/restaurants, fashion, jewelry, beauty and CD shops. Its multipurpose hall, which stages art, music, photography or anything that has to do with fashion, from a unique and original perspective under the concept of Fashion reﬂects contemporary culture, never ceases to drive attention. That explains why Laforet is always at the fashion forefront. Not only are English speaking staff available, there are Chinese and Korean speaking staff as well.

LAFORET HARAJUKU

1F cards are accepted at Laforet Harajuku

mercibeaucoup, 2F Wow, how adorable! Yet, funny at the same time. You can’t help but smile as soon as you enter the store mercibeaucoup. This is because of its concept: Neat and proper, with some fun, having something to say, but never putting on airs. At mercibeaucoup, the collections reflect the staffs’ mindset of cherishing the precious feeling of appreciation. That’s why a mercibeaucoup garment can bring out a wearer’s originality and modest individuality. An assortment of fancy pieces is sure to catch your attention. •Hours: 11am-8pm •TEL: 03-6447-2276 •URL: www.mercibeaucoup.jp

WALL is a hub of street fashion. It is fair to say its mind refreshing and energetic collection will pique your intellectual curiosity. Presenting the concept of Tokyo using people, products, and space, WALL has a large selection of one-of-a kind pieces, including new brands such as Pfutze and Charine. Pfutze features silver and gold jewelry designed by Yasutaka Kita and Ayako Kaku using nature as the motif. Charine sells accessories made by the husband and wife of Yuichi Inmaru and Akiko Inmaru, using empty shells of ocean life. Don’t forget to check them out! •Hours: 11am-8pm •TEL: 03-5411-2704 •URL: www.hpfrance.com/En/Shop/Brand/wall.html

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Fashion themed park featuring the latest trends

F W

Many shops here are new in Japan or even in the whole world. You simply don’t have enough time to see them all! When you get tired of shopping, refresh yourself in the greenery of Omohara no Mori.

E O h

OMOHARA Cafe 3F HUMOR SHOP by A-net 4F

A Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/Harajuku original shop. Original drinks start from 300 yen and sweets from 180 yen. Not only are there special menus collaborated with brands, but routine menus change from season to season as well. Fancy treats await you any time. •Hours: 11am-9pm •TEL: 03-5785-2233 •URL: www.transit-web.com/shop/omohara-cafe

TOKYU TOKYU PLAZA PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ OMOTESANDO/ HARAJUKU HARAJUKU

Web retailer HUMOR’s ﬁrst brick-and-mortar store. the newest fashion items from Japan and abroad are brought in even before you know it, so this is the place to ﬁnd the trendiest fashion. New technology and services such as AR (augmented reality) and O2O are applied to give customers a whole new shopping experience. You simply cannot help but buying! Get a glass for yourself and kids (998 yen each)! •Hours: 11am-9pm •TEL: 03-6438-9315 •URL: www.a-net.com

The SHEL'TTER TOKYO

Since its opening in 2012, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/Harajuku has been providing the latest information on culture and lifestyle. Numerous shops here are new in the world or new in Japan, proving its status as a premium fashion mall. Here you can find the latest fashion in select stores and take a rest in relaxing cafes. But the highlight is the rooftop Omohara no Mori. The mall’s location at an intersection gave this rooftop garden a perfect view and spacious room for the trees to grow high up to the sky. It makes you forget you are in the middle of a metropolis. There are also seasonal beer terraces and illuminations.

B1F-2F cardsare areaccepted acceptedatatTokyu TokyuPlaza PlazaOmotesando/Harajuku Omotesando/Harajuku cards

choosy chu

Tons of brands, each with its own characteristics, are waiting for you in the spacious sales floors stretching from B1F to 2F. As soon as you step inside, you will feel as if you have wandered into an up-side down treasure box full of exciting items. No wonder you’ll be thrilled shopping in a space that reminds you of a renovated old warehouse. Not only fashion items but also daily life goods are available. This is truly a global flagship store satisfying all your needs. Shirt held by the staff: 6,930 yen. Jeans: 15,540 yen. Shoes: 12,390 yen

A very popular shop among teenagers and twenty something girls because anything they want can always be found here. The place is ﬁlled with natural and cute items. Its concept is not only about being pretty, but true to yourself as well. An enchanting original bag may likely be sold out the next time unless you buy it at that moment. Clothes and pieces that everyone may dream of are selected by keen staff members from around 40 brands, according to customers’ taste. Bag held by the staff: 2,940 yen (Key holder separately available), T-shirt with prints of Disney characters: 4,725 yen •Hours: 11am-9pm •TEL: 03-3470-2450 •URL: www.choosychu.com/index.html

•Hours: 11am-9pm •TEL: 03-6730-9191 •URL: www.theshelttertokyo.com

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Omotesand

Finding the very essence of Wa in Omotesando! Edgy fashion and boutique brands. Elegant cafes and restaurants. Omotesando may seem western at first sight, but in fact there are many hidden spots reminding you of Wa, the Japanese spirit.

A O/

2 1

What is your defi ning image of Wa? Wa is an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself. Then how is Wa related to shops and merchandises? As suggested by WAttention, genuineness is the basic standard. Be it design, material, or quality, everything should be genuinely coming from the hands of professional craftsmen, or be inherited from history. Moreover, the items are not only for appreciation but also functional in daily life, also known as the beauty in utilitarian items in Japanese culture. In this corner, the WAttention editorial staff will recommend several shops and items of Wa that we’d rather keep as secret. Find Wa of your own, and enjoy it with your five senses.

A. Oriental Bazaar 3

A long-established gift shop selling kimonos, T-shirts, crafts, dolls, furniture and even antiques. You can find any traditional Japanese souvenir here. •Hours: 10am-7pm (Closed on Thursdays) •Address: 5-9-13, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-3400-3933 •Access: 4 mins walk from A1 Exit of Omotesando station •URL: www.orientalbazaar.co.jp/en/index.html

B. Shoyeido Aoyama Store With a long history, incense has become a part of life in Japan. Shoyeido Aoyama Store offers a variety of traditional Japanese incense, scenting your living space pleasantly. 6

ajuku juku

•Hours: 10am-7pm (Closed on Wednesdays) •Address: 2F Pinevillage, 5-47-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-5774-4406 •Access: 5 mins walk from B2 Exit of Omotesando station •URL: www.shoyeido.co.jp/english

C. Hasegawa Saketen Omotesando Hills A sophisticated liquor shop specializing in sake and other alcoholic drinks made in Japan. You can ask for advice on your choice and tasting is available at a cost at the bar counter. •Hours: 11am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm) •Address: 3F Omotesando Hills, 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-5785-0833 •Access: 2 mins walk from A2 Exit of Omotesando station •URL: www.hasegawasaketen.com/english/index.html

D. J-period J-PERIOD is an interior brand that embodies a new Japanese style, infusing traditional philosophy and urban modernism. •Hours: 10am-9pm (Sundays till 8pm) •Address: B2F Omotesando Hills, 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-6439-1611 •Access: 5 mins walk from B2 Exit of Omotesando station •URL: www.j-period.com/en 9

JIKAN STYLE is a specialty shop for tenugui facecloth and furoshiki wrapping cloth, and they also have a lovely pouch like this. 2 A T shirt with a print of a crane and a sea bream that are thought to bring good fortune in Japan. A 3 Kyusu tea pots are essential to Japanese tea. There are tea pots as stylish as this. D 4 Kokeshi is a type of traditional Japanese doll. A 5 Mini-bottle sake with handsome labels make perfect souvenirs. C 6 An adorable bonsai plant in the shape of a hedgehog. D 7 First time putting on a kimono? How about trying a modern pattern? E 8 With these replicas of Japanese swords, you can feel like a samurai warrior. A 9 You can enjoy a variety of sake in these beautiful kiriko faceted glasses. C 10 A sachet to adorn your room with a refreshing smell. Featuring a neat Japanese feeling. B 1

E. SHITO HISAYO Known to the world as a unique kimono designer, Hisayo Shito presents stylish lady’s and men’s kimonos with sharp designs that fit urban lifestyles. •Hours: 12pm-8pm (Closed on Tuesdays) •Address: 1F Homuratomoi building, 5-46-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-3406-7484 •Access: 4 mins walk from B2 Exit of Omotesando station •URL: http://shito-hisayo.jp/main.html (Japanese only)

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The New Joy of Decorating Calligraphy

A a

Enjoying calligraphy works by master Japanese calligraphers as an art form for decorating “space”. One-of-a-kind interior art. It all begins with Carré MOJI.

J t fa a

T e a c li c s fo p f p n is s d a o w f to d c W f in s y li it

Glorious/Floral, Kei Shimizu Size: 70 x 70 cm, 260,000 yen

To enjoy/Pleasant, Kei Shimizu Size: 35 x 45 cm, 80,000 yen

To ﬂy, Gen Miyamura, Size: 132 x 177 cm, 600,000 yen

Landscape Madoka Yokoyama Size: 43 x 55 cm, 120,000 yen

Wind Gen Miyamura Size: 35 x 45 cm, 80,000 yen A rainbow, Kei Shimizu Size: 18 x 68 cm, 110,000 yen

Carré MOJI works are an expression of the ultimate artistic beauty of calligraphy that has been adopted as interior art. Twelve dedicated calligraphers have been selected from among the thousands who practice the trade, and each has their own unique world of art, which comprises not only exceptional works in themselves but also serves to stimulate the sensitivities of the observer from the meanings that are originally encompassed in the words that they depict. Dedicated designers interpret the intent of the calligraphers and prepare original bindings for each and every single work.

These are, quite simply, “calligraphy that cry out to be decorated as works of interior design”. They vary from kanji characters and kana to English letters and even sumie paintings. Enchant your heart with the “colors” of black and come and meet the work that perfectly matches your sensitivities. The Carré MOJI pieces may be made to order in letters or words of the French or Arabic languages, and names may also be interpreted in kanji character. The marriage of “Carré”, which stands for a pleasant courtyard in French, and “Moji”, or words or characters, creates, true to their meaning, “pleasant space with words”.

Carré MOJI Hours: 11:30am-7pm (Closed on Sundays) Address: 5-11-14 3F Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo URL: www.carremoji.jp/en/index.html

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Omotesand

A Taste of Stylish, Fashionable, and Utilitarian Japanese Fabrics Japan’s concept of “beauty in utilitarian items” refers to its furoshiki and tenugui, single sheets of fabric that can be interchanged for the purposes of fashion, use as a standalone item, or for packing things. JIKAN STYLE offers a wide array of these appealing beauties. The tradition that Japan proudly presents to the world has been persevered and passed down over the years with care. JIKAN STYLE had been established in just such a spirit, hoping to carry forward into the future the treasures that have been inherited from our forefathers. Chusen, a method of dying patterns onto fabrics beautifully without front or back sides, has today become a precious technique. It is this technique, not possible in mass production, that is employed in creating each and every single fabric sold at JIKAN STYLE. The diverse designs and the various colors are in tune with the seasons and events of the year, are available in Japanese and western styles, and the materials range from soft gauze gentle enough for babies to crisp cotton. The color hues settle down with use and become even more comfortable to the touch. With various sizes available, from small to large, depending on the intended use, the staff at JIKAN STYLE await your visit with a regular lineup of seven hundred items.

Carré

Hours: Addres MinatoURL: w

JIKAN STYLE Flagship store Hours: 11am-8pm Address: 5-11-11-2F Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Marunouichi shop Hours: 10am-7pm Address: B1 Palace Building, 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku URL: http://jikan-style.jp

An example of our recommendation for autumn 2013. Prices start at 1,050 yen.

Handle for a ladies’ righthanded purse, 420 yen

Handle for a ladies’ lefthanded purse, 3,780 yen

“It’s the ultimate eco bag, made on the spot with your favorite fabrics. It doesn’t take up space and it’s very convenient. I like to tie two tenugui together and use then as a wide, unique scarf,” shop manager Chiharu Kodera remarked.

A wide variety to choose from, ranging from classic patterns to modern styles. Due to its large size, the furoshiki can be used conveniently in different ways. Prices start at 2,100 yen. Get a ceremonial mizuhiki cord on top of the regular packaging for an additional 150 yen.

“Although the tenugui is thin, it’s big and perfect for a guy who perspires a lot. Show just a part of the fabric from your pants pocket for a trendy style,” suggests Motohiro Miyamoto, who serves as director at JIKAN STYLE.

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This kind of packaging is sure to touch the recipient of your gift. Our staff will show you how to do the wrapping free of charge.

Traditional Japanese designs are particularly popular among foreign customers. Prices start at 1,050 yen.

The style for wrapping a bottle of wine is everyone’s favorite.

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CALLING ALL

FOOD LOVERS! Eat Paradise by Isetan 1 Utama is offering you many more choices to satisfy your taste buds.

EAT PARADISE STALL

year old Eat Paradise, which focuses on restaurants serving famous, authentic Japanese and Korean cuisines. Pooling together a bevy of eateries serving only the best of Japanese and Korean dishes, these simple restaurants ensure great meals within the walls of their cozy counters and are exclusive to this hall of temptations. For ramen lovers, visit ramen specialists Menya Musashi and Gantetsu or for an all-fresh sushi experience, eat in at Ichiro Sushi bar. Not forgetting our new addition Ma Maison, offering its specialty tonkatsu dishes. For something less traditional yet just as heavenly a dining treat, Puran B, the Japanese offshoot of Plan B, is also available right here serving a menu of pork-free Western dishes with a twist such as its awesome creamy soft-shell crab spaghetti. In place of Isetan’s famous Foodmarket, Eat Paradise is yet another testimony of the leading Japanese departmental store’s success and no one person should leave the store without experiencing all that Eat Paradise is ready to offer. Eat Paradise@Isetan is located at S101, Center Court.

2F EAT PARADISE | ISETAN 1 UTAMA WON KOREA

MENYA MUSASHI

GANTETSU

GYU-KAKU

PROMOTION

ICHIRO SUSHI

SENYA

ENTRANCE

PURAN B

SWEETS

MA MAISON

ENTRANCE

Redeem 1 stamp with every RM15 spent in dining receipt of the same day from November 22, 2013 to February 28, 2014. This redemption is open to all Eat Paradise restaurants (2F) and Caffe Gino (GF) *Terms & Conditions apply

EAT PARADISE LOYALTY CARD NOV 22, 2013 - FEB 28, 2014 12

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Dining Hours: Sun - Thu 11am - 10pm (last order: 9.30pm) Fri - Sat 11am - 10.30pm (last order: 10pm

EAT PARADISE

Get a free gingerbread cookie with every purchase of RM20 from Caffe Gino from December 13 - 26, 2013. *Terms & Conditions apply

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For Visitors to Japan Only

Become an Isetan member * a 5% discount on your purchases**!

IMC

* Terms & Conditions 1. This promotion is only available for non IMC members who present the + ONE BOOK upon application 2. Membership given is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance 3. This promotion is not applicable for existing IMC Members 4. Isetan of Japan Sdn Bhd reserve rights to change the terms and conditions without prior notice. ** Terms & Conditions 1. 5% discount is ONLY applicable to IMC members shopping at selected Isetan stores in Japan 2. In case of info discrepancy between www.shopping-japan.jp and Isetan of Japan Sdn Bhd,info released by Isetan of Japan Sdn Bhd is taken as correct 3. Isetan of Japan Sdn Bhd reserve the rights to change the terms and conditions without prior notice.

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Ⅳ

A Guide to Memorable Winter in Northern Tohoku

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Snow White and 7 Great Activities Covered in powder snow and crisp air, winter in Northern Tohoku offers you some of the most unique experiences. Here is a guide to enjoy this extraordinary season; you will never feel more alive even in the dead of winter!

Ⅴ

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Ⅰ. Get sporty Winter in Northern Tohoku is a paradise for those who enjoy winter sports. Majestic mountain ranges carpeted in fresh powder snow provide a number of great ski hills all over the region. Most ski hills provide rental equipments and lessons, so it s a great place to pick up skiing as well.

Ⅱ. Get festive Despite being famous for their grand summer festivals, Tohoku has a list of amazing winter festivals as well. Yokote is known for its Kamakura Festival where people can eat and drink inside snow domes, while artistic snow sculptures at snow festivals in Towadako and Iwate attract huge crowds every year.

Ⅲ. Walk in Nature The beech forest of Shirakami has a special beauty in winter. Go snowshoeing with a great guide and enjoy nature to the fullest. If you are up for something more authentic, try a jifubuki (ground snow storm) session and discover the harshness of Northern Tohoku winter first-hand. 1 Appi Snow Resort Access: 1 hour bus ride from JR Morioka station or shuttle from JR Sendai station for hotel guests Website: http:// www.appi.co.jp/foreign_country/english/winter/index.html 2 Yo ko t e K a m a k u r a Festival Access: Yokote is 1 hour on JR Ou-honsen line from JR Akita station 3 Tr eck ing in S hir akami Access: 1 hour bus ride from JR Hirosaki station Website: http://www.shirakami-visitor. jp/index.html (Japanese only) 4 Warm up and eat around fire place 5 Tsurunoyu at Nyuto Hot Springs Access: Approx. 1 hour bus ride from JR Tazawako station Website: http://www.nyuto-onsenkyo. com/english/index.html

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Ⅳ. Indulge in Great Winter Food Winter, like any other season, is full of seasonal delicacies. There are a number of local hot pots that let you enjoy a variety of local products in one pot. Another way to stay warm in the cold winter is by drinking atsukan (warm sake). Match locally-brewed sake with native dishes as they tend to create a wonderful harmony with each other.

Private box seat inside Resort Shirakami Resort Shirakami Access: From JR Akita or JR Aomori station Website: http://www.jreast.co.jp/akita/gonosen/ index.html (Japanese only) 3 Shirakami mountains and Mt. Iwaki 4 Tsugaru Jamisen performance 5 Furofushi Hot Springs 6 Juniko - 12 lakes 7 Swans on Yoneshiro River 1 2

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Ⅴ. Warm up in Hot Springs Yukimi buro , literally meaning snow viewing bath , is what the Japanese indulge in during winter, as soaking in hot springs at an outdoor bath is one of the best ways to enjoy the tranquil beauty of snow. Fortunately, since scenic hot springs are scattered all around Northern Tohoku, you can enjoy yukimi buro in various regions during the snow-covered winter.

a ere g d he er

Ⅵ. Witness the Vast Nature The northern tip of Honshu is lined with amazingly scenic landscapes along the coast of the Sea of Japan. To fully enjoy the view, hop onboard the Resort Shirakami, a special train where you can enjoy astounding scenery at every turn. You can also enjoy a shamisen performance and local folk songs as you enjoy the harsh yet breathtaking beauty of nature from within the warm train.

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Ⅶ. Submerge in Local Music The Tsugaru region of Aomori is known for its Tsugaru jamisen, a 3-string instrument widely performed around the region. Its lively and rhythmic music is unlike other Japanese folk music, and sounds more like rock. You can enjoy a performance at various places in Aomori, including restaurants and bars. 7

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Skiing with the Snow Monsters Dare to ski your way through the monsters? Don’t be scared, the snow monsters won’t hurt you! Don’t underestimate their mysterious power to impress every visitor, though.

Meet the monsters The peculiarly shaped monsters are actually Aomori fir trees covered with extremely wet snow and ice carried by the cold Siberian jet stream. First, water droplets freeze against the trees and their branches until near-horizontal icicles begin to form. Then falling snow start to settle on the ice formations before a grotesque figure is formed. The phenomenon starts from late December and is in its best form in February. Skiing through groups of snow monsters is just one way to admire them. To view the monsters, you may take the ropeway directly to the top of Mt. Zao at 1,600 meters above sea level. Thousands of snow monsters stand majestically upon

the slopes, and greet you with a ghostly yet magnificent impression. There is plenty of space to walk around and take pictures. At night, the snow monsters are lit up during January and February. The multi-colored illumination further adds to the mystery and is sure to amaze you. The hot spring ski resort doubles the fun. In the ski resort, there are 15 different slopes and 12 courses suitable for both experts and beginners. You can ski from one side of the mountain to another on a 10km downhill course at a vertical displacement of 800m. Apart from skiing and admiring the snow monsters, Zao is also famous for its sulfurous hot springs.

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Zao Onsen and Ski Resort Access: 40 mins bus ride from JR Yamagata Station Website: http://www.zao-spa.or.jp/english/index.html Zao Ropeway Access: 40 mins bus ride from JR Yamagata Station Website: http://www.zaoropeway.co.jp/ (Japanese only)

Upon your arrival in Zao, the strong smell of sulfur will remind you the existence of hot springs. After spending a day atop of the mountains, the hot natural volcanic waters will surely relax and refresh your body and mind.

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Onsen-as Japanese as Sakura

Naruko Onsen hot spring Access: 40 mins train ride from JR Furukawa Station. Website: http://en.naruko.gr.jp/

A trip to Tohoku is not complete without experiencing a relaxing dip in a traditional hot spring. The memorable experience is sure to warm your body and heart.

Ginzan Onsen hot spring Access: 40 mins bus ride from JR Oishida Station. Website: http:// www.ginzanonsen.jp/ (Japanese ony)

Ginzan: from silver mine to nostalgic hot spring town Ginzan, meaning silver mountain , was named because of a silver mine that was found here in the 15th century. After the silver mining stopped in the late 17th century, Ginzan developed into a hot spring town from the mid 18th century. As you enter the town by crossing the Shirogane bridge, you will soon be welcomed by a foot bath. What follows is the hot spring street, with rows of graceful three and four story wooden buildings standing on both sides of the river, giving the area a nostalgic atmosphere. After a relaxing hot spring bath, you may take a walk along the promenade that lead you to interesting attractions

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Experience a traditional hot spring bath

such as the 22-meter-high Shirogane-notaki Falls, Senshin Valley with its monolithic riverbed, and Ginkodo (silver mine cave) where you can take a 30-minute adventure tour through illuminated mine tunnels. Strolling down the streets, you may have a feeling that time has stopped in this nostalgic town. Take a pause, re-fuel, and enjoy. Three treasures of Naruko: Onsen, Gorge, and Kokeshi dolls Located in the northwest of Miyagi Prefecture, Naruko onsen area consists of five hot springs: Naruko, HigashiNaruko, Kawatabi, Nakayamadaira, and Onikobe. One of the unique features of

this hot spring area is the varying types of spring, which is said to have 9 out of 11 types available in Japan. The hot spring water contains beneficial minerals that have various medicinal effects. The Naruko-kyo Gorge is a large ravine with a depth of about 100 meters that was formed by erosion. It is also known as one of the best spots for viewing the seasonal foliage. If you are looking for souvenirs, Naruko is also famous for the traditional kokeshi dolls. These dolls are hand-made from wood, and feature a simple design. They are historically known as children s toys in the mountain villages in the Tohoku Region. Nowadays, the dolls are still made by hand and make a good souvenir for hot spring visitors.

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Experience Japan with JAPANiCAN Managed by JTB (Japan's largest travel agency), JAPANiCAN offers a great selection of tour packages from the hottest Mt. Fuji trips to numerous themed tours of Japanese cultural experiences. Even if you prefer to travel at your own pace, the variety of JAPANiCAN's tour packages accompanied by English speaking guides may add a touch of serendipity to your trip! So why not give it a try!

TOUR

9 te yo va so

Sumo Wrestling: It's Not All About Size

E Sumo Tour: Tokyo Tournament (with Chanko Dinner) Sumo, the Japanese-style wrestling that has its roots in Shinto religion, is one of the representative images of Japan and surely an experience not to be missed. The sport has a long history and many ritual elements have been preserved, such as the use of salt purification and a variety of ceremonies undertaken during the tournament. Six tournaments are held each year; three of them take place in the Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo. The tour allows you to experience Japan’s national sport and enjoy the traditional meal of sumo wrestlers afterwards! In the afternoon, you are free to watch the bouts or go to the exhibition room and gift shop in the arena, but remember to come back at around 15:45 to watch the ceremonial entrance of senior-ranked wrestlers and Grand Champion Yokozuna’s ring entrance. After the day’s bout is over, you’ll join the wrestlers and enjoy a yummy Chanko meal together in a Sumo stable. A rare opportunity to be so close to Sumo wrestlers!

What is Chanko? Chanko refers to all kinds of meal prepared by or for sumo wrestlers. Among them the most popular variation is Chanko-nabe (hotpot), which is a rich mixture of stewed meats, fish, and vegetables.

A bout is won by forcing the opponent out of the ring, or throwing him to the ground. 2 Chanko is amazingly delicious and nutritious. 3 Get some Sumo souvenirs from the gift shop inside the arena. 4 Colorful flags in support of Sumo wrestlers stand along the street leading to the Kokugikan Arena. 5 Sumo wrestlers enter the ring in their colorful ceremonial aprons. 6 After the final bout, a Sumo wrestler performs the bow dance. 1

Sumo trivia! Do you know that there is no weight division for this 1500 year-old sport? So it is possible for a sumo wrestler to find himself pitted against an opponent twice his own weight! *The next tour is scheduled for the New Year’s tournament from January 12th to 26th in Tokyo. Please check JAPANiCAN’s website for more information.

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TOUR

Mt. Fuji & World Heritage Cycling 1-Day Tour

Japanese style lunch is included. Vegetarian meal is also available.

First stop: Fuji Visitor Center

Second stop: Mt. Fuji 5th Station

90 minutes after departing from Hamamatsucho bus terminal in Tokyo we arrive at Fuji Visitor Center. Here you can find out the history and art of Mt. Fuji through various exhibits. Also don't miss out on Mt. Fuji souvenirs and great views from the observatory deck.

Climb 2,305 meters above sea level for the highest point of Mt. Fuji reachable by cars. From here you can admire breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. There's also a small post office so you may send a postcard and share your travel memories.

This Mt. Fuji folding fan is a special gift for tour participants. (Valid while supplies last)

Energize yourself with a delicious Japanese style meal and get ready to cycle around Lake Kawaguchi! Let’s go! In the afternoon we hopped on our mountain bikes for a 25-kilometer ride around Lake Kawaguchi. The English-speaking local guide was really helpful showing us the magnificent scenery around Mt. Fuji. He even told us some background stories of the many shrines near Mt. Fuji as we stopped by at one of them to take a rest and pray for safe trip. After the bike trip, a bus took us from Fuji-Q Highland to Shinjuku and finished our wonderful trip!

d e

s TOUR

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Making Your Own HOKUSAI T-Shirt

TOUR

Experience Omotenashi in a Japanese Family

TOUR

Joy Doubled: Japanese Cuisine & Night Scenery

Who is Hokusai? Katsushika Hokusai (17601849) is known as an ukiyoe (woodblock printing) artist and his most famous artwork is “Thirty-six views of Mount Fuji”. Not only did Hokusai have a profound influence on Western impressionist artists such as Vincent van Gogh, but also was the only Japanese listed on Life magazine’s ranking “100 people in the world who made one of the most important achievements in the last 1,000 years.”

Enjoy making your own unique T-shirt You can make your own T-shirt with the oldest Japanese T-shirt maker brand-KUME in just 30 minutes with the following steps: (1) Choose the size and color you like (2) Decide the design of silk print (3) Choose the color of ink (4) Decide the location for printing (5) Start printing (6) Dry up the ink by hairdryer and iron (7) Your HOKUSAI T-shirt is done.

Omotenashi is the heart of Japanese hospitality. This tour gets you a chance to experience Omotenashi and local people’s daily life through a tea ceremony in a Japanese family, as well as strolling along traditional shopping streets. Mingling with the locals is the best way to really experience Japan!

Hotel Nikko Tokyo offers you a chance to enjoy Japanese style dinner at the bayside of Odaiba. A table by the window is reserved for you at JAPANiCAN’s exclusive discounted price. Come and enjoy exquisite Japanese cuisine accompanied by the night scenery of Tokyo Bay.

Managed by JTB, JAPANiCAN is a premier website offering a wide variety of hotels and tour packages. The brand name combines JAPAN, i (eye or information), and CAN (potential), with the aim of bringing the best of Japan to customers. http://www.japanican.com

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Go Beyond Travel Guides and Discover Gems in

Chiba & Ibaraki

Chiba is not just about an airport or Disneyland!

Facing the Pacific Ocean, Chiba is blessed with a mild climate and scenic pockets of nature that make it a magnificent resort area like Hawaii. Chiba welcomes travelers allyear round: see flowers and pick strawberries in the Spring, do water sports and enjoy the beaches in the Summer, take in the rich history along with the multicolored foliage in the Fall, and rejuvenate your body and mind in hot springs in the Winter.

✿ CHIBA・千葉

A Day Trip from Narita Airport - Historical Chiba Narita is home to Narita International Airport, a main gateway to Japan. The following places are within 30 minutes by taxi or public transportation from the airport, and are also perfect for travelers with time to spare during layovers. There’s no need to go far from the airport to experience exotic Japan!

NARITA-SAN SHINSHOJI・

NARITA-SAN OMOTESANDO・

成田山新勝寺

成田山表参道

Visit one of the most popular temples in Japan. The temple is dedicated to Fudomyo-o, the god of fire, and has been a favorite site for excursions and pilgrimages since the Tokugawa shoguns moved the national capital to Edo (Tokyo) in 1603. The temple attracts more than 3 million visitors wishing for their safety, luck, and prosperity during the first three days of the New Year’s Festival alone.

Stroll historic Japan at Omotesando. The 800-meter-long street leads straight to Narita-San Shinshoji Temple, and many small antique-style inns, restaurants, and souvenir shops are nestled along either side. If you want to eat the best in authentic local delicacies such as Unaju (eel over rice), then stop by Kikuya; their locally-sourced Unagi (eels) are juicy and will definitely satisfy both your stomach and travel checklist.

URL:

www.naritasan.or.jp/english/

BOSO-NO-MURA・房総のむら

URL: www.nrtk.jp/lang/en/sightseeing/02_omote.html

Travel 150 years into Japan’s past and try your hand at traditional crafts! Boso-no-mura is an interactive museum park made up of authentic samurai residences, farmhouses, and other buildings from the Edo period. They offer around 350 types of demonstrations and hands-on experience programs.

SAKURA SAMURAI HOUSES ・佐倉武家屋敷

Experience real Samurai life! Sakura City began as a fortified town at the foot of a local castle that served the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Edo period. Today, several historic samurai houses remain along Sakura Samurai Street, and three of them are open to the public. URL: www.sakurashi-kankou.or.jp

URL: www.chiba-muse.or.jp/MURA/e/

✿ Explore

More of Chiba MOTHER FARM・

NOKOGIRI MOUNTAIN・鋸山 Home to breathtaking views, spiritual trails with over 1,500 Arhat statues, and a gigantic stone-carved Buddha, Nokogoriyama (sawtooth mountain) is one of the best daytrip spots from Tokyo.

マザー牧場

Meet cute animals, see beautiful flowers, enjoy fruit-picking, and more! The farm is a great destination for city-dwelling families who want to try out the country life. URL: www.motherfarm.co.jp/en/

✿ Dine,

Kuroda A Kuroda

URL: www.mt-nokogiri.co.jp/pc/p130000.php

KAMOGAWA SEAWORLD ・鴨川シーワールド Have fun with our friends from the sea! Kamogawa SeaWorld is a seaside aquarium boasting 11,000 sea creatures from 800 species including killer whales, dolphins, and sea lions. URL: www.granvista.co.jp/english/list/ksw.html

OYAMA RICE TERRACES・大山千枚田 Escape from city life and take a nostalgic stroll along the Oyama Rice Terraces, which is the closest rice terrace from Tokyo to see vivid and young green paddies. URL: www.senmaida.com

Stay, and Shop in Chiba TAKARAYA・

KAMOGAWA KAN・

MIYA SHOYU・

PREMIUM OUTLETS・

Watch Kisarazu Geishas perform while enjoying a traditional Japanese meal. You can even talk to and play parlor games with the Geishas. Plus, Takaraya’s owner is fluent in English.

Stay at the most elegant Ryokan (Japanese style inn) in Kamogawa. Gorgeous Japanese full-course meal, great ocean views, and a wonderful hot spring will definitely satisfy you.

Looking for great souvenirs from Chiba? Check out Miya Shoyu, the southernmost, traditional Shoyu (soy sauce) factory in all of Eastern Japan, and is also the closest to Tokyo.

If you’re a bargain hunter, head to outlet shopping malls to satisfy your cravings. Shisui Premium Outlets in Chiba and Ami Premium Outlets in Ibaraki will not let you down.

宝家

URL: http://takaraya.awk.jp

鴨川館

URL: www.japan-ryokan.net/kamogawakan/en/

宮醤油店

URL: www.miyashoyu.co.jp/

酒々井プレミアムアウトレット

URL: www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/en/shisui/

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Chiba and Ibaraki -- most tourists overlook these two prefectures, but visiting these Kanto region members is well worth it and both are easily accessible from either Haneda or Narita Airport. Go beyond the travel guides and get the inside track on the great locations that only the locals know about by adding these destinations to your next Japan trip itinerary.

千葉・茨城

Extending Your Stay in Japan? Visit Ibaraki! Located just above Chiba, this prefecture may not be the obvious tourist destination, but many pleasant surprises await you. Like neighboring Chiba, Ibaraki’s rural atmosphere contains scenic nature spots and is a great contrast to Tokyo’s urban landscapes. In addition, Ibaraki has some of the best that Japan has to offer.

Tsukuba Mountain

IBARAKI・茨城

Visit the Best of Ibaraki! “Mt. Fuji to the West, Mt. Tsukuba to the East.” This local saying dates back numerous generations and praises Ibaraki’s Tsukuba Mountain for its beauty by comparing it favorably to Mt. Fuji. The Tsukuba Ropeway also operates in the nighttime during Winter, so hop on and enjoy the marvelous night scenery from the mountains.

The Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge is the longest of its kind in Japan. Like a large dragon god as its name implies, the bridge soars high above the lake below. If you have the guts, walk across it while looking down or take the literal plunge and try bungee jumping off it.

Fukuroda-no-taki is one of the three most gorgeous waterfalls in Japan. The red and yellow leaves on the surrounding trees are beautiful during Autumn, and the waterfall frozen in mid-Winter is breathtaking.

Want to visit the tallest Buddha statue in the world? Check out Ushiku Daibutsu -- you can actually go inside of it, and it is three times taller than New York’s own Statue of Liberty.

Ushiku Daibutsu

Ibaraki is also one of the largest producers of agricultural products in all of Japan; in fact, they are the top supplier of both melons and chestnuts. If you want to try apple-picking, visit Kuroda Apple Orchard in Okukuji in October; they have the oldest mutsu apple tree in the nation. If you want to see beautiful plum flowers, Kairakuen in Mito is famous for them and you should go there during wintertime.

Kairakuen

Fukuroda-no-taki

Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge

Kuroda Apple Apple Orchard Orchard Kuroda

✿ Explore

More of Ibaraki JAXA・科学の街・つくば Ibaraki is also the prefecture closest to outer space -- well, not literally, but Tsukuba City is the home of the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Formed from the merger of three separate entities in 2003, JAXA is responsible for the development, technology, and the research supporting Japan’s activities in space. Whether you’re an astronaut or not, swing by the JAXA museum and learn more about NASA’s Japanese counterpart.

URL: www.jaxa.jp/index_e.html

✿ Dine,

KASAMA POTTERY・笠間焼・回廊ギャラリー門 The city of Kasama is one of the biggest and most important pottery communities in the entire Kanto region. Visit Gallery Mon and check out the best and most stylish pottery in Kasama at bargain prices. And if you’re thirsty, get the traditional Maccha green tea experience complete with Kasama pottery tea cups and a beautiful view of a Japanese garden at Shunpubanriso, an extension of the the Kasama Nichido Museum of Art and which was once the home of famous artist Rosanjin. URL: www.gallery-mon.co.jp/

Stay, and Shop in Ibaraki SANSUI・山翠 For seafood aficionados, Ibaraki’s got your back. Anko Nabe (anglerfish hotpot) is a famous local dish, and you can’t go wrong by dining here because they’ve got the best Anko around.

URL: www.sansui-mito.com

KIUCHI BREWERY ・

AOKIYA HOTEL・

OMOIDE ROMANKAN・

Let’s not forget about Ibaraki’s great soba and sake. Located inside of the Kiuchi Brewery, try out the Hitachi Akisoba served at the Nakaya Restaurant along with Kiuchi sake.

A very convenient place to stay at when you visit Mt. Tsukuba, the hotel is located at the foot of the mountain and the view from the rooms is amazing.

This is great place to stay when you’re visiting Fukuroda-no-taki. Cleanse yourself in their outdoor hot springs, which are located right next to a beautiful river fed by Fukuroda-no-taki.

木内酒造

URL: www.kodawari.cc/?en_home.html

青木屋

URL: http://aokiya-hotel.com/

思い出浪漫館

URL: www.roman-kan.jp

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From Tokyo to K.L -Daily Home-made Noodles -Soup is 100% MSG Free -True Franchise from Japan

Fahrenheit 88 Lot F1.27.01, First Floor, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur +603-2141 1573

Subang Empire LG26, Lower Floor, Empire Shopping Gallery, Jalan SS16/1, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor. +603-5621 0073

NEW OUTLET Avenue K

UC7, Upper Concourse Level, 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur. +603-2181-5595

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Met lovely Sakura Hotel at Asakusa

Because it was my ﬁrst time to visit Tokyo as a backpacker, I decided to stay in Asakusa, where there are the most Japaneseque sceneries to visit. The experience of staying at Sakura Hostel Asakusa made the trip far beyond my expectations, because it was much more than just a bed to sleep – it was a place to meet interesting people and experience local culture. At Sakura Café, I had a great time chatting with people from all around the world and got much useful information from the friendly staff. Staying at lovely Sakura Hotel at Tokyo is deﬁnitely the most wonderful memory of my trip in Japan!

Check-In

Rooms There are different types of rooms for groups to share, and dormitories are also available for backpackers who travel alone. Twin rooms would be recommended for couples that need more privacy. I stayed at the twin room where beautiful sceneries of Sensoji Temple and Tokyo Skytree are available at my balcony.

The reception is available 24 hours, and the English speaking staffs were so friendly that I felt warmly welcomed. Clean sheets and pillowcases are provided with swipe card and residency guidance.

“Sakura Café” is one of the charm points of Sakura Hotel, I think. It is not merely a café but also a place to get close to the soul of Tokyo. Various events and social gatherings are arranged here, such as origami sessions and parties. At Sakura Café I never felt lonely, and I made friend with Hanife, an adorable girl from Istanbul who loves Japanese culture a lot. I also enjoyed chatting with an interesting guy from London, Dean - a theatre writer - who had been traveling in Asia for more than 8 months for 16 countries, who was thinking to get some inspirations from both of the traditional and contemporary Japanese Arts. Moreover, in this cheerful spacious public space, free wifi, TV and computers are available 24 hours.

Sakura Café

Facilities & Information

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Even come to Japan without any travel plans, there is various travel information for you to check. One-day trips seem popular. 1 Shower room: Each floor is well equipped with sanitary facilities. I was very satisfied with the clean toilet and shower room. 2 Kitchen: The kitchen is free to use for 24 hours. Here you could make yourself some easy meals or just a cup of coffee. 3 Laundry Room: I was happy with the washing machine and drying tumbler. I did not have to bring too many outfits with me. 4 Personal Locker: There are personal lockers in the dormitory. You can bring your own lock or just buy one at the reception.

If you don’t need the big suitcase with you, just leave them at the guest storage.

Sakura Hostel Asakusa Information

The notices are all written in English with cute pictures, it reminded me of my fun college life when I stayed at the school accommodation.

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa, Taito-Ku, Tokyo, Japan Tel: 03-3847-8111 URL: http://www.sakura-hotel.co.jp/asakusa

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