WAttention Tokyo vol 9 by WAttention

WAttention_ad_en_Tokyo_Aug_revision.pdf 1 2013/08/07 14:02:03

In Ha r mony w it h t he Sea sons The Double Yang Feast September 9

Similarly to the chrysanthemum, the chestnut also has high medicinal qualities, and had been valued on beliefs that it was a source of energy that balanced the body. 栗は菊と同様に薬効が高く、身体を整えエネルギーを与える食べ物と考えられていたため、重用されていたのです。

重陽の饗応

Japan during the Heian period as a court event, and has been passed down as an occasion when the nobility would purify their bodies with the dewdrops from chrysanthemum flowers and enjoy floating chrysanthemum petals in their teas and wines. It also came to be celebrated as a holiday for the warrior class during the Edo era. In the old calendar, this period is the time for harvesting the crops of the fields and paddies. Among the common people, who could not afford the rare and expensive chrysanthemums and instead ate chestnuts, the event was called the “chestnut festival”. 重陽とは、菊や酒で養生と不老長寿を祈念する祭です。この節供は、旧暦にかわり新暦が導入されるにつれ、五節供の中ではもっとも馴染みのないものとなりました。新暦の９月９日頃は、重陽に最も大切な菊の花も栗の実も手に入れるのが難しい時期。自然界まではなか

楽しむ

9月9日

A festival for preserving one’s health with chrysanthemum and sake rice wine, and an occasion to pray for everlasting youth and longevity. Originating in ancient China, the custom was introduced to Japan during the Heian period. As the old lunar calendar has come to be replaced by the solar calendar, the “double yang” has become the least familiar of the five key annual festivals in Japan. It falls on September 9, the time of year when the most important items for the festival - chrysanthemum flowers and chestnuts - are difficult to obtain. In Ancient China, the occasion had been observed as a sacred day of double yang, represented by the number nine, when it had been customary to put silverberries in a bag and climb hills and mountains, drink chrysanthemum wine, drive away evil spirits, and pray for long life. The custom was introduced to

こよみを

text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Takeshi Fukuhara 文とスタイリング＝井戸理恵子、写真＝福原毅

なか変えられないようです。古来中国では９月９日は陽が２つ重なる尊い日として、岡や山に登り、菊の香りを移した菊酒を飲み、邪気を払い、長寿を願うという風習がありました。我が国では、平安時代に宮中行事として導入され、菊についた梅雨で身体を温めたり、菊の花を浮かべたお酒やお茶をたしなんだりと、雅な行事として続いてきたようです。江戸時代には武家の祝日として祝われるようにもなりました。旧暦のこの頃はまた、田畑の収穫もおこなわれる時期。庶民の間では希少で高価な菊のかわりに栗を食べるため、「栗の節供」とも呼ばれていました。

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。

WAttention Tokyo

※日本文化の魅力を世界に発信する「WAttention Tokyo」事業は東京都中小企業振興公社の推奨事業です。

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!

VOL.09

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。

H A P P Y S E CO N D A N N I V E R SA RY S P E C I A L

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki / WATTENTION CO., LTD.

OMOTESANDO A showcase of trends, gourmet delights, and culture 03

Editorial Staff Charles Chen / Masayo Kishi Editorial & Design Art Director Yasuhisa Tamura Photographer Kenji Sugasawa, Takeshi Fukuhara Illustrator Kanae Tsubono / Keiko Tateno Contributing Writer Eriko Sugita Photo courtesies JNTO, TCVB, TOKYO2020/Shugo TAKEMI, Tokyo Casual Snap, Harajuku Style Co.,Ltd, Taito City

In Harmony with the Seasons

Letter from the Editor

Tokyo Hot News

Associate Editor Naoko Ijuuin

Special 1

OMOTESANDO

A showcase of trends, gourmet delights, and culture

Three malls in Omotesando you don t want to miss! Omotesando Hills, Laforet Harajuku, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/Harajuku Finding the very essence of Wa in Omotesando! Editor s Beauty Fashion Selection 20 28

Special 2

NORITAKE

Tokyo Half-Day Sanpo

Tokyo Must Do

What s on

Kabuki - the classical Japanese performing art, appears with a new face inside a Gashapon toy capsule. Six different designs of handkerchiefs featuring Kabuki elements are available exclusively at Kabuki facilities including the renovated Kabuku-za Theater in Ginza.

BANDAI

http://gashapon.jp/kabukiza/

Karting in Tokyo’s Otaku Neighborhood Starting off from Tokyo’s otaku paradise - Akihabara, Akiba Cart allows you to rent a go-kart and cruise through the busy streets of Tokyo. Don’t forget to bring your international license if you want to fulfill your Mario Kart fantasy!

広告・記事に関するお問い合わせは和テンション株式会社〒107-0062 東京都港区南青山5-18-10-202 Phone : 03-6418-5701 / Fax : 03-6418-5704 E-mail : info-tokyo@wattention.com シンガポール事務所 Minook International (S) Pte Ltd 2B Craig Road singapore 089662 Phone : 65-6324-2127

Learn Japanese with Mirai Suenaga Fancy learning Japanese while having fun? Moekana and Moekanji are Japanese learning flash cards featuring lovely illustrations of Mirai Suenaga, the mascot character for the Culture Japan brand. Buy a set at the Hobby Tengoku store in Akihabara.

Mirai Suenaga http://mirai.fm

Akiba Cart

http://akibanavi.net/

ロサンゼルス事務所 Team J station, Inc. 2383 Lomita Blvd., Suite 114 Lomita, CA.90717 Phone : 1-310-782-8279

Autumn 2013

Letter from the Editor WAttention Tokyo will celebrate its second anniversary of publication. We are thankful to all the readers who have supported us and I would like to express here my utmost gratitude. WAttention editorial staffs share the passion of introducing Japanese culture and sightseeing information to everyone visiting Japan. This is done by providing knowledge and background stories, rather than

Kabuki Handkerchief in a Gashabon

Special thanks to Rieko Ido (adviser) Christopher Jacques Ryota Ishii

Celebrating Mount Fuji s Registration as World Heritage Site with Noritake s Fujiyama

Bringing you the hottest trends in Tokyo.

Marketing Department Kazuki Okubo

Second Anniversary Special Column Ready to Host the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Tokyo Power Spot Vol.5

EWS

Partners Daily Information co., Ltd.

Traditional and Modern Tokyo 2013-14

TOKYO HOT

superficial facts and information. In this issue, we will focus on Omotesando, one of the fashion hubs of Japan. Since WAttention s Tokyo office is located right here, we are really excited to bring you the best of Omotesando. Please visit Omotesando with WAttention Tokyo in your hand!

Don't miss out!

Zaku? Tofu? The innovative Zaku Tofu is a collaboration between Gundam and famous tofu maker Sagamiya Foods. Inside the Zaku-shaped container is bean-flavored green tofu. A no miss for any diehard Gundam fan.

Sagamiya Foods, Zaku Tofu Special Site

http://sagamiya-kk.co.jp/big-zam/ nz_top.html

Learn basic Japanese Kanji and Katakana characters with these cute flash cards.

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki

Subscribe to WAttention Tokyo

Street Fashion inspired by Buddhist Monks

Please fill out and fax to 03-6862-6760 or email to info-tokyo@wattention.com. We will reply within a few days.

You'll never miss an issue of WAttention Tokyo with home delivery. Order now and the magazine will be at your home. ［WAttention Tokyo 定期送付のご案内］配布エリア外にお住いの方や、毎号お読みになりたい方のために定期送付いたします。

Four issues a year / only 1,000 yen Name Address Postcode Tel Email

Inspired by monk’s workware, bon creatively turns mundane attire into a fashionable everyday outfit. The casual design certainly looks cool on monks and whoever is interested in Buddhism.

: : : : :

bon.

http://www.bon-web.jp/

04 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

※日本文化の魅力を世界に発信する「WAttention Tokyo」事業は東京都中小企業振興公社の推奨事業です。

VOL.09

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。

H A P P Y S E CO N D A N N I V E R SA RY S P E C I A L

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki / WATTENTION CO., LTD.

OMOTESANDO A showcase of trends, gourmet delights, and culture 03

In Harmony with the Seasons

Letter from the Editor

Tokyo Hot News

Associate Editor Naoko Ijuuin

Special 1

OMOTESANDO

A showcase of trends, gourmet delights, and culture

Special 2

NORITAKE

Tokyo Half-Day Sanpo

Tokyo Must Do

What s on

BANDAI

http://gashapon.jp/kabukiza/

Mirai Suenaga http://mirai.fm

Akiba Cart

http://akibanavi.net/

ロサンゼルス事務所 Team J station, Inc. 2383 Lomita Blvd., Suite 114 Lomita, CA.90717 Phone : 1-310-782-8279

Autumn 2013

Kabuki Handkerchief in a Gashabon

Special thanks to Rieko Ido (adviser) Christopher Jacques Ryota Ishii

Celebrating Mount Fuji s Registration as World Heritage Site with Noritake s Fujiyama

Bringing you the hottest trends in Tokyo.

Marketing Department Kazuki Okubo

Second Anniversary Special Column Ready to Host the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Tokyo Power Spot Vol.5

EWS

Partners Daily Information co., Ltd.

Traditional and Modern Tokyo 2013-14

TOKYO HOT

Don't miss out!

Sagamiya Foods, Zaku Tofu Special Site

http://sagamiya-kk.co.jp/big-zam/ nz_top.html

Learn basic Japanese Kanji and Katakana characters with these cute flash cards.

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki

Subscribe to WAttention Tokyo

Street Fashion inspired by Buddhist Monks

Please fill out and fax to 03-6862-6760 or email to info-tokyo@wattention.com. We will reply within a few days.

Four issues a year / only 1,000 yen Name Address Postcode Tel Email

Inspired by monk’s workware, bon creatively turns mundane attire into a fashionable everyday outfit. The casual design certainly looks cool on monks and whoever is interested in Buddhism.

: : : : :

bon.

http://www.bon-web.jp/

04 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

OMOTESA NDO A SHOWC ASE OF TRENDS,G OURMET DELIGHTS , AND CULTURE 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.

06 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

06 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

Special Omotesando Map To familiarize yourself with Omotesando, take note of its two main intersections. The top intersection has on its corner at Jingumae Laforet HARAJUKU and Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, the places to check out the latest fashion trends and culture. Heading toward Omotesando at the next crossroad you will see Kiddyland to your left. The area by its side along the narrow paths is called Cat Street, aligned with pretty shops and cafés. This is where you will find JIKAN STYLE, specializing in tenugui and furoshiki, so stop by if you’re in the area. Coming back to the main street, you will see Omotesando Hills to the left for sophisticated tastes, offering an array of fashion items and featuring a grand atrium stairway designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. This area offers a pleasant environment of wide, treelined roads. Take a glance at some of the fashionable people sitting at the cafés and add to your repertoire of styles. Take a right turn at the Omotesando crossing and find the street diagonal from across the high-rise AO building. This is the Kotto-dori, or antique street. Carré Moji is on the narrow street on the right side of the first traffic light, where calligraphy has been turned into art. Experience Japanese culture from a fresh new perspective. While small in size, the area is full of interesting shops to stop by and look around. Take a leisurely stroll through Omotesando the next time you’re in our town.

Keep yourself in the fashion forefront. P12

Walk along the streets lined with zelkova trees, and you’ll find here - a fashion hub of Tokyo. P11

Find the latest brands here. P13 K I DDY LAND K I DDY LAND

Lots of cats and kawaii shops here gave the street its lovely name.

Ask police for help. Also a good meet-up point.

Stylish tenugui and furoshiki are right here waiting for you. P17

Learn the magic of calligraphy. P16

08 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

Keep yourself in the fashion forefront. P12

Walk along the streets lined with zelkova trees, and you’ll find here - a fashion hub of Tokyo. P11

Find the latest brands here. P13 K I DDY LAND K I DDY LAND

Lots of cats and kawaii shops here gave the street its lovely name.

Ask police for help. Also a good meet-up point.

Stylish tenugui and furoshiki are right here waiting for you. P17

Learn the magic of calligraphy. P16

08 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

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!

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

OMOTESANDO HILLS

Opened in 2006, Omotesando Hills is a cultural/commercial complex with six floors above the ground and 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 consumer needs, as well as spaces for hosting events. If you have a keen eye for fashion, be sure to check out Omotesando Hills as it is one of the fashion hubs of Tokyo. Apart from shops and restaurants, concierge services are available from Hills Concierge. Admiring its architecture is also recommended. •Hours: Shops 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00), Restaurants 11:00-23:30 (Sunday -22:30) •Address: 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku •Access: 2 mins walk from Omotesando station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Chiyoda line, and Hanzomon line. 3 mins walk from Meiji-jingumae station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Fukutoshin line. 7 mins walk from JR Harajuku station. •URL: http://www.omotesandohills.com/english/index.html

LAFORET HARAJUKU

10 WAttention Tokyo

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 limited-time-only shops, no wonder customers have a pleasant surprise every time they visit Laforet. This is the place to go for the latest fashion! •Hours: 11:00-20:00 •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: http://www.laforet.ne.jp/ en/

1 Taken in 2010

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 fully enjoy the area. For those short on time, here are the must-gos: Omotesando Hills, Laforet HARAJUKU and Tokyu Plaza Omotesando/ Harajuku. You will certainly be satisfied even within a few hours. In addition, you can enjoy limited-time-only illumination along the streets. This year, the streets will be lit up from Dec 2, 2013 to Jan 5, 2014. If you are here at the right time, make sure you don’t miss this joyful moment.

TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ HARAJUKU

KABUKIZA

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.

•Hours: Shops 11:00-21:00. Restaurants 8:30-23:00 •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

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.

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.)

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: 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00) •TEL: 03-3486-0048 •URL: http://www.shuuemura.jp/brand/ shop/omotesando/

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00) •TEL: 03-3403-8086 •URL: http://www.edition-jp.com/index.html

YASAIYA・Mei

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00) •TEL: 03-6447-0707 •URL: http://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: 11:00- (LO16:00), 17:0023:30 (LO22:30) Monday-Saturday. 17:00-22:30 (LO21:30) (Sunday) •TEL: 03-5785-0606 •URL: http://eat-walk.com/mei/

WAttention Tokyo

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

OMOTESANDO HILLS

LAFORET HARAJUKU

10 WAttention Tokyo

1 Taken in 2010

TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ HARAJUKU

KABUKIZA

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00) •TEL: 03-3403-8086 •URL: http://www.edition-jp.com/index.html

YASAIYA・Mei

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 (Sunday -20:00) •TEL: 03-6447-0707 •URL: http://www.pass-the-baton.com/

shu uemura

OMOTE SANDO HILLS

Main Building 3F

West Wing 1F

WAttention Tokyo

35 years together with a history of fashion

Fashion themed park featuring the latest trends

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.

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.

STRAWBERRY HOUSE

Almost anyone coming to the town would have tried the crepes at STRAWBERRY HOUSE 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). STRAWBERRY HOUSE 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: 11:00-21:30 •TEL: 03-3497-0030 •URL: http://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 multi-purpose 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.

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: 11:00-21:00 •TEL: 03-5785-2233 •URL: http://www.transit-web.com/shop/ omohara-cafe/

LAFORET HARAJUKU

•Hours: 11:00-20:00 •TEL: 03-6447-2276 •URL: http://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: 11:00-20:00 •TEL: 03-5411-2704 •URL: http://www.hpfrance.com/En/Shop/Brand/wall. html

12 WAttention Tokyo

TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ 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: 11:00-21:00 •TEL: 03-6438-9315 •URL: http://www.a-net.com/

The SHEL'TTER TOKYO

B1F-2F

choosy chu

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.

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.

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: 11:00-21:00 •TEL: 03-3470-2450 •URL: http://www.choosychu.com/index.html

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 •TEL: 03-6730-9191 •URL: http://www. theshelttertokyo. com/

WAttention Tokyo

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.

STRAWBERRY HOUSE

WALL

Fashion themed park featuring the latest trends

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.

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

LAFORET HARAJUKU

•Hours: 11:00-20:00 •TEL: 03-6447-2276 •URL: http://www.mercibeaucoup.jp/

12 WAttention Tokyo

TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO/ HARAJUKU

The SHEL'TTER TOKYO

B1F-2F

choosy chu

•Hours: 11:00-21:00 •TEL: 03-6730-9191 •URL: http://www. theshelttertokyo. com/

WAttention Tokyo

Finding the very essence of Wa in Omotesando!

What is your defining 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.

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. 10

11 12 13

A. Oriental Bazaar

A long-established gift shop selling kimonos, T-shirts, crafts, dolls, furniture and even antiques. You can find any traditional Japanese souvenir here. •Hours: 10:00-19:00 (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: http://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.

•Hours: 10:00-19:00 (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: http://www.shoyeido.co.jp/english/

C. Hasegawa Saketen Omotesando Hills

15 5

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: 11:00-21:00 (Sun -20:00) •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: http://www. hasegawasaketen.com/english/index.html

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D. J-period 2

J-PERIOD is an interior brand that embodies a new Japanese style, infusing traditional philosophy and urban modernism. •Hours: 10:00-21:00 (Sun -20:00) •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: http://www.j-period.com/en/

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.

A T shirt with a print of a crane and a sea bream that are thought to bring good fortune in Japan. A JIKAN STYLE is a specialty shop for tenugui facecloth and furoshiki wrapping cloth, and they also have a lovely pouch like this. See P17 3 Superbly thin, with burdock and tomato flavor. You can find innovative types of osenbei (rice crackers) at JUKKA. See P27 4 Kokeshi is a type of traditional Japanese doll. A 5 One good thing about tenugui is that it doubles as a wrapping cloth. See P17 6 Mini-bottle sake with handsome labels make perfect souvenirs. C 7 Kyusu tea pots are essential to Japanese tea. There are tea pots as stylish as this. D 8 An adorable bonsai plant in the shape of a hedgehog. D 9 Why not adopt a new art such as calligraphy decoration into your lifestyle. See P16. 1

14 WAttention Tokyo

With these replicas of Japanese swords, you can feel like a samurai warrior. A Matcha green tea flavor is simply elegant and mellow. 12 A mini bonsai plant suits any room. 13 Wagashi sweets featuring changing seasons reflect traditional Japanese aesthetic ideals. 14 First time putting on a kimono? How about trying a modern pattern? E 15 Survive the summer heat with folding fan. 16 You can enjoy a variety of sake in these beautiful kiriko faceted glasses. C 17 A sachet to adorn your room with a refreshing smell. Featuring a neat Japanese feeling. B 10

•Hours: 12:00-20:00 (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)

WAttention Tokyo

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. 10

11 12 13

A. Oriental Bazaar

C. Hasegawa Saketen Omotesando Hills

15 5

8 7

D. J-period 2

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.

14 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

The New Joy of Decorating Calligraphy

A Taste of Stylish, Fashionable, and Utilitarian Japanese Fabrics

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.

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.

JIKAN STYLE Flagship store 5-11-11-2F Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Open every day of the year from 11 am to 8 pm Marunouichi shop B1 Palace Building, 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku Open 10 am to 7 pm URL: http://jikan-style.jp

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

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.

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

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. 16 WAttention Tokyo

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”.

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.

Carré MOJI Hours: 11:30-19:00 (Closed on Sunday) Address: 5-11-14 3F Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo URL: http://www.carremoji.jp/en/index.html

“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.

“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.

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.

WAttention Tokyo

The New Joy of Decorating Calligraphy

A Taste of Stylish, Fashionable, and Utilitarian Japanese Fabrics

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.

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

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

A rainbow, Kei Shimizu Size: 18 x 68 cm, 110,000 yen

Carré MOJI Hours: 11:30-19:00 (Closed on Sunday) Address: 5-11-14 3F Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo URL: http://www.carremoji.jp/en/index.html

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.

WAttention Tokyo

Editor's Girls and flowers in full bloom at Omotesando! Beauty Fashion Selection

Omotesando is not only about elegant shops, cafes and Japanese culture. That’s right! The street of Omotesando is like a catwalk for fashionable ladies and girls to show off the latest fashion trends. Get some inspirations from them for your own styling and makeup! Also, don’t miss out Nicolai Bergmann’s flowers & design flagship store. The flowers are as beautiful as those Omotesando ladies. Photo courtesies: Harajuku Style Co., Ltd Scouting and shooting "kawaii (cutie)" girls for the publication of "Harajuku girls". They also run a model agency in the Takeshita street. http://harajuku-style.jp/ http://www.harajuku-girls.com/ Tokyo Casual Snap Sharing Japanese fashion snapshots on facebook to the world, mainly the US and Europe. http://www.facebook.com/TokyoCasualSnap

Copy her cool way of wearing a scarf. Choosing a vivid color is the secret to this style.

The pink puff sleeve and the same color rouge made the charming look.

With the eye-catching stripes and necklace, this off-the-shoulder style is simply elegant. Wearing leather in summer is a style everyone wants to try. Black and white monotone is the key to success.

Masculine hat spices up her style. Also goes well with a wide belt.

The combination of stripes and floral print goes well with her fresh-looking ponytail.

A big smile makes the finishing touch.

Trendy shorts with striped top make a sporty impression.

Wearing a flared skirt won’t be childish if coupled with a black T-shirt. Simply cute and neat.

Panther pattern fits in all seasons. The gilet also makes a fine impression.

Shorts with leggings will leave a mature impression.

The frill strikes a perfect balance with her curly hair. The belt is also a key item.

A neat white lace and avantgarde boots make a good example of advanced styling.

Another stylish item. Fur boots would match any clothes and brush up your style in summer.

Nicolai Bergmann Flowers & Design Flagship Store

Flowers that express your feelings

Dress, bag and shoes, the same-color coordination highlights her feminine beauty. 18 WAttention Tokyo

Flower artist Nicolai Bergmann has introduced a unique style of floral design by mixing Scandinavian style sense with Wa, or Japanese sensitivity to detail. Including the flagship store in Aoyama that fitted with a café, now he has 9 branches in Japan and abroad. The price of flower boxes varies depending on sizes and kinds of flowers. •Address: 5-7-2 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku •URL: www.nicolaibergmann.com

WAttention Tokyo

Editor's Girls and flowers in full bloom at Omotesando! Beauty Fashion Selection

Copy her cool way of wearing a scarf. Choosing a vivid color is the secret to this style.

The pink puff sleeve and the same color rouge made the charming look.

With the eye-catching stripes and necklace, this off-the-shoulder style is simply elegant. Wearing leather in summer is a style everyone wants to try. Black and white monotone is the key to success.

Masculine hat spices up her style. Also goes well with a wide belt.

The combination of stripes and floral print goes well with her fresh-looking ponytail.

A big smile makes the finishing touch.

Trendy shorts with striped top make a sporty impression.

Wearing a flared skirt won’t be childish if coupled with a black T-shirt. Simply cute and neat.

Panther pattern fits in all seasons. The gilet also makes a fine impression.

Shorts with leggings will leave a mature impression.

The frill strikes a perfect balance with her curly hair. The belt is also a key item.

A neat white lace and avantgarde boots make a good example of advanced styling.

Another stylish item. Fur boots would match any clothes and brush up your style in summer.

Nicolai Bergmann Flowers & Design Flagship Store

Flowers that express your feelings

Dress, bag and shoes, the same-color coordination highlights her feminine beauty. 18 WAttention Tokyo

WAttention Tokyo

TRADITIONAL and MO DERN TOKYO 2013-14

In the ever-changing city, Tokyo, brand new facilities appear one after another in fashionable areas popular with young people. Even though the traditional tourist sites seem to remain exactly the same, you may notice that innovative changes have occurred in such areas as well. No matter when you visit you’ll find something new. That’s the fascination of Tokyo.

TRADITIONAL AREA Kabukiza

It’s fun to stroll around traditional sightseeing spots as well as finding new aspects in such historical areas.

KITTE

The start of a new era for the Kabukiza theater

MODERN AREA

New facilities or innovative concepts always add excitement in modern areas of Tokyo. You don’t want to miss them!

SHIBUYA Scramble I and II Another exciting scramble crossing in Shibuya

The area around Akihabara station used to have a fruit and vegetable wholesale market – called Yacchaba. To promote Japanese food culture, CHABARA opened in July 2013 under the elevated rail tracks between Akihabara and Okachimachi where food related business had thrived in the past. You can find great food selections sold only here in Tokyo in the main shop, Nihon Hyakkaten. Also there are Yanaka Coffee offering dozens of fresh roasted coffee and a vegetarian restaurant, Komaki Shokudo.

Specialties from all over Japan

A new commercial complex opened in March 2013 in the JP Tower in front of JR Tokyo station. The tower uses the preserved portion of the former Tokyo Central Post office as its lower level. Accommodating 98 shops and restaurants, KITTE offers foods, products, and dining, focusing on traditional Japanese tastes and popular local specialties. The name KITTE is a play on the Japanese word, Kitte (postage stamp) and kite (come here). •Hours: Shops 11:00-21:00 (Sun & Holidays -20:00), Restaurants 11:00-23:00 (Sun & Holidays -22:00) Hours vary according to stores. •Address: 2-7-2, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku •TEL: 03-3216-2811 (10:00-19:00) •Access: Direct access from Tokyo station on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line, 1 min walk from Tokyo station on JR line •URL: http://jptower-kitte.jp/en/

©Shochiku

Since the original building opened its door in 1889, the Kabukiza theater has been an iconic symbol of Ginza. The fifth-generation theater reopened in April 2013 after three years of renovation. In the Kabukiza Gallery, which is on the fifth floor of the newly created high-rise Kabukiza Tower behind the theater, you can see costumes, stage props and other items used in actual performances even when there are no performances. The new Kabukiza is a must-see for Kabuki fans and first visitors as well.

CHABARA Foods from all over Japan in Akihabara

•Hours: 11:00-20:00 •Address: 8-2, Kandaneribei-cho, Chiyoda-ku •TEL: 03-3258-0051 (Nihon Hyakkaten) •Access: 1 min walk from Denkigaiguchi Exit of Akihibara station on JR lines •URL: http://www.jrtk.jp/chabara/ (Japanese only)

Tokyu Toyoko Department Store reopened in April 2013. The first and second floors - called SHIBUYA Scramble I and II - are for trend-conscious women’s fashion and accessories. Many new brands are introduced to Japan for the first time here. The passages of the first floor are curved to form an oval shape so that customers cannot see which brand comes next unless they walk the passages. The concept and name came from the famous Shibuya scramble crossing where mingled fashion styles come and go. •Hours: 10:00-21:00 •Address: 2-24-1, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku •TEL: 03-3477-3111 •Access: Direct access from Shibuya station on JR, Tokyu Den-en-toshi/ Toyoko, Keio Inokashira, Tokyo Metro Ginza/ Hanzomon/Fukutoshin lines •URL: http://www.tokyu-dept.co.jp/toyoko/

•Address: 4-12-15, Ginza, Chuo-ku •TEL: 03-3545-6800 •Access: Direct access from Higashi-Ginza station on Tokyo Metro Hibiya lne and Toei Asakusa line, 5 mins walk from Ginza stations on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Marunouchi line and Hibiya line. •URL: http://www.kabuki-bito.jp/eng/

Imperial Palace

Kokyogaien National Garden •Access: 3 mins walk from Nijubashimae station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line, 5 mins walk from Hibiya station on Tokyo Metro Hibiya line. •URL: http://www.env.go.jp/garden/kokyogaien/english/index.html

Experience the lively downtown Asakusa is well-known for Senso-ji temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Stroll along the Nakamise shopping street stretching from the Kaminarimon gate, famous for its huge red lantern, to the temple and find traditional Japanese souvenirs. You can feel the lively atmosphere of Edo still remains here. From the observation deck of Asakusa Tourism Cultural Information Center right across the street from the Kaminarimon gate, you can enjoy an amazing view of the area from a new angle.

Senso-ji temple •Hours: 6:00-17:00 (October-March: 6:30-) •Address: 2-3-1, Asakusa, Taito-ku •TEL: 03-3842-0181 (10:00-16:00 except Sundays and holidays) •Access: 5 mins walk from Asakusa station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Toei Asakusa line, Tobu Isezaki line and Tsukuba Express line. •URL: http://www.senso-ji.jp/about/index_e.html

20 WAttention Tokyo

Stylish landmark in Roppongi was renovated

Right in the middle of Tokyo

Located on the former site of Edo castle, the Imperial Palace stands surrounded by moats and stone walls like a relic of past times in the center of Tokyo. However, Kokyogaien National Garden and Kitanomaru National Garden in the Imperial Palace grounds are always open to public where people can enjoy relaxing time on their own style. The scene of Nijubashi Bridge from the lawn area in Kokyogaien National Garden is one of the most popular spots for taking photos.

Asakusa

Tokyo Midtown Marking 6 years since its establishment, Tokyo Midtown was significantly renovated in April 2013. Along with newly opened stores featuring a wide variety of fashion brands, it is characterized by an increase of shops featuring local food or craftworks such as a well established soy sauce brewery from Fukuoka and a traditional linen store from Nara. How about being fascinated by sophisticated Japanese craftsmanship in the heart of Roppongi ?

Its charm remains the same

Tokyo Tower Since its opening in 1958, Tokyo Tower has been the symbol of Japan’s economic development. Though TOKYO SKYTREE® took over the role as the main broadcasting antenna in May 2013, the tower still attracts many people, offering a breathtaking view of Tokyo. Whenever the fantastic illumination is changed to specific arrangements for special occasions, it becomes the subject of Tokyoites. You can enjoy both visiting and just looking at the tower especially at night. •Hours: 9:00-22:00 •Address: 4-2-8, Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku •TEL: 03-34335111 •Access: 5-7 mins walk from Akabanebashi station on Toei Oedo line, Onarimon station on Toei Mita line, and Kamiyacho station on Tokyo Metro Hibiya line •URL: http://www.tokyotower.co.jp/ eng/secret/

Hurry up! Time-limited Offer Beer & BBQ & Bar terrace @ 888 On the roof garden of Matsuya department store located in the heart of Ginza, a sophisticated beer garden for ladies is open until September 30. The BBQ set menu offers 2 hours of free drinks and three dishes rich in vegetables for 4,500 yen. For more details: http://utsukushikunaru-beergarden.com/

•Address: 9-7-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku •TEL: 03-5475-3100 •Access: Direct access from Roppongi station on Toei Oedo line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya line. •URL: http://www.tokyo-midtown.com/en/

TOKYO SKYTREE®

Odaiba

Experience the world’s tallest freestanding radio tower

Enjoyable day and night

Tokyo’s new landmark, TOKYO SKYTREE marked its 1st anniversary in May 2013. Visited by about 6.38 million people in the first year, it has attracted more and more visitors from home and abroad. After enjoying the stunning view from the observatories at 350 meters and 450 meters above the ground, you can find souvenirs at the commercial complex, TOKYO solamachi®.

Odaiba is a popular shopping and amusement district built on a manmade island in the waterfront area of Tokyo. Thanks to easy access from the city center, unique buildings, and a fantastic night view of Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay, it is always filled with families, couples, and tourists looking to enjoy a memorable day out. Don’t miss the life-size giant robot Gundam replica in front of Divercity.

•Hours: 8:00-22:00(observatories) •Address: 1-1-2, Oshiage, Sumida-ku •TEL: 03-5302-3470 •Access: Right next to TOKYO SKYTREE station on TOBU SKYTREE line and Oshiage station on TOBU SKYTREE line, Narita SKY ACCESS Keisei, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line, Toei Asakusa line •URL: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/

•Access: For the center of the Odaiba area, Odaibakaihinkoen station, Daiba station, or Aomi station on Yurikamome line or Tokyo Teleport station on Rinkai line is convenient.

Hurry up! Time-limited Offer EKIMISE Beer Garden Grab a beer while enjoying the magnificent night view of Tokyo Skytree! On the roof of Asakusa EKIMISE directly connected to Asakusa station, a cool beer garden is open from 17:00 to 22:00 until September 30. It’s also open during the day from 11:00 to 15:30. For more details: http:// ekibeer.jp/ (Japanese only)

WAttention Tokyo

TRADITIONAL and MO DERN TOKYO 2013-14

TRADITIONAL AREA Kabukiza

It’s fun to stroll around traditional sightseeing spots as well as finding new aspects in such historical areas.

KITTE

The start of a new era for the Kabukiza theater

MODERN AREA

New facilities or innovative concepts always add excitement in modern areas of Tokyo. You don’t want to miss them!

SHIBUYA Scramble I and II Another exciting scramble crossing in Shibuya

Specialties from all over Japan

©Shochiku

CHABARA Foods from all over Japan in Akihabara

Imperial Palace

20 WAttention Tokyo

Stylish landmark in Roppongi was renovated

Right in the middle of Tokyo

Asakusa

Its charm remains the same

•Address: 9-7-1, Akasaka, Minato-ku •TEL: 03-5475-3100 •Access: Direct access from Roppongi station on Toei Oedo line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya line. •URL: http://www.tokyo-midtown.com/en/

TOKYO SKYTREE®

Odaiba

Experience the world’s tallest freestanding radio tower

Enjoyable day and night

•Access: For the center of the Odaiba area, Odaibakaihinkoen station, Daiba station, or Aomi station on Yurikamome line or Tokyo Teleport station on Rinkai line is convenient.

WAttention Tokyo

YANESEN Explore the old Tokyo neighborhood The name YANESEN is short for three areas located to the northwest of Ueno district, Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi. While walking around here, you will not find flashy tourist attractions, only the nostalgic atmosphere of many temples, traditional wooden houses and old-fashioned small shops - an old downtown where ordinary Japanese people live. • Nippori station on JR line, Keisei line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Nezu station or Sendagi station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line. 1 Yanaka Ginza is the perfect shopping street for strolling and snacking! 2 Yanesen is a cats’ paradise. You can find many real cats and cat goods as well. 3 Taiyaki is one of the many popular Japanese snacks in Yanesen. 4 Nenneko-ya: A retro cafe out of a private wooden house. Cats just come and go freely here, so if you are lucky, they will welcome you.

• Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11:30-18:00, Thu & Fri 11:30-17:00 • 2-1-4, Yanaka, Taito-ku • http://www.nennekoya.com/ (Japanese only)

22 WAttention Tokyo

WANDERING OFF REGULAR TOURIST ROUTES in TOKYO

Ginza, Shibuya, Roppongi…these are great places well-known to tourists. However, there are many unbeaten tracks waiting to be explored. How about strolling along small alleys among the local people while enjoying local snacks? Definitely a brand new experience for you!

SHIMOKITAZAWA

JIYUGAOKA

Mecca of youth-oriented subculture

Pretty posh area full of girls’ favorites

With easy access from Shibuya and Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa - usually called Shimokita - has lots of small theater halls, live houses, secondhand clothes or goods shops and a wide variety of affordable restaurants, forming a unique cultural sphere for young people. If you slip down narrow alleys, you will feel like thrown into a toy box full of hidden gems.

With roughly 1,000 shops in a much smaller area than Shibuya or Harajuku, Jiyugaoka has a comfy but sophisticated atmosphere. A variety of fashionable boutiques, adorable sundry shops, charming restaurants and cafes attract the younger generation. Jiyugaoka is especially well-known for sweets, so groups of girls with a sweet tooth enjoy a sweet break here.

• Shimokitazawa station on Keio Inokashira line and Odakyu line

• Jiyugaoka station on Tokyu Toyoko line and Oimachi line

Honda Theater: It has played a leading role as a small underground theater in Japan for over 30 years. • 2-10-15, Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku • http://www.honda-geki.com/honda.html (Japanese only) 2 - 4 There are also various kinds of sundry goods stores in Shimokita. 5 A Mecca of secondhand clothes shops. 6 It’s fun to just see the displays of each shop. 1

1 Jiyugaoka Sweets Forest: A dessert theme park where eight distinct sweets shops offer specialty treats.

• • • only)

10:00-20:00 2-25-7, Midorigaoka, Meguro-ku

2 - 5 It’s hard to make up your mind what to eat in Jiyugaoka Sweets Forest! 6 Many shoppers strolling along the leafy streets.

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KICHIJOJI

SHIBAMATA

No.1 city in Tokyo where people want to live

5 6

A western suburb of Tokyo, Kichijoji offers great shopping districts as well as the beautiful Inokashira Park full of lush greenery. It’s a well-balanced city where anyone can enjoy comfortable daily lives regardless of gender or generation. A wide variety of affordable restaurants and cozy friendly cafes also account for its continuing popularity. • Kichijoji station on JR line and Keio Inokashira line Inokashira Park, an oasis for people in Kichijoji, boasts its lovely pond, cherry blossom and a nice little zoo! 2 Have fun at the standing Yakitori bar near the Park. 3 Satou: A butcher shop famous for its long queue for juicy Menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet) in Daiya-gai shopping arcade. 1

• 9:00-20:00 (For Menchi-katsu 10:30-) • 1-1-8, Kichijoji-honcho, Musashino-shi • http://www.shop-satou.com/index.html (Japanese only)

4 6

Savor the taste of the old town setting of Tora-san Located in Eastern part of Tokyo, Shibamata is wellknown as the home of Tora-san, the leading character of Otoko wa Tsuraiyo (It’s tough being a man), which is a classic popular Japanese serial movie. Walking through the approach to Taishakuten, you can feel the mood of good old Showa days that remain in this downtown area, like a scene from the movie. •

Shibamata station on Keisei Kanamachi line

Many people visit Taishakuten (Daikyoji Temple) to pray for driving away evils or recovery from illness. 2 An approach way to Taishakuten lined with small shops of local specialties. 3 Takagiya Rouho: Offering traditional Kusa-dango (rice dumplings with mugwort) and red bean paste, the shop was the model for Tora-san’s family shop. 1

• • •

7:30-18:00 7-7-4, Shibamata, Katsushika-ku http://www.takagiya.co.jp/ (Japanese only)

WAttention Tokyo

• Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11:30-18:00, Thu & Fri 11:30-17:00 • 2-1-4, Yanaka, Taito-ku • http://www.nennekoya.com/ (Japanese only)

22 WAttention Tokyo

WANDERING OFF REGULAR TOURIST ROUTES in TOKYO

SHIMOKITAZAWA

JIYUGAOKA

Mecca of youth-oriented subculture

Pretty posh area full of girls’ favorites

• Shimokitazawa station on Keio Inokashira line and Odakyu line

• Jiyugaoka station on Tokyu Toyoko line and Oimachi line

1 Jiyugaoka Sweets Forest: A dessert theme park where eight distinct sweets shops offer specialty treats.

• • • only)

10:00-20:00 2-25-7, Midorigaoka, Meguro-ku

2 - 5 It’s hard to make up your mind what to eat in Jiyugaoka Sweets Forest! 6 Many shoppers strolling along the leafy streets.

1 2

1 3

2 2

3 3

KICHIJOJI

SHIBAMATA

No.1 city in Tokyo where people want to live

5 6

• 9:00-20:00 (For Menchi-katsu 10:30-) • 1-1-8, Kichijoji-honcho, Musashino-shi • http://www.shop-satou.com/index.html (Japanese only)

4 6

Shibamata station on Keisei Kanamachi line

• • •

7:30-18:00 7-7-4, Shibamata, Katsushika-ku http://www.takagiya.co.jp/ (Japanese only)

WAttention Tokyo

JAPANESE STAPLE DISHES TRADITIONAL vs MODERN TRADITIONAL

Aoki Have a fantastic experience at one of the best authentic sushi restaurants in Ginza. AOKI’s fish is mostly sourced from local fish store in Tsukiji. • Lunch 12:00-14:00, Dinner 17:00-22:00 • Ginza Takahashi Building 2F, 6-7-4, Ginza, Chuo-ku • Subway Ginza Station B3 turn exit 3-minute walk • http://r.gnavi.co.jp/gaej300/lang/en/

Oosaka Delightfully light and juicy, and fresh out of the fryer, Oosaka’s tempura brings out the ingredients’ best quality, retaining the delicate texture. • Mon to Fri 17:30-23:00 (Sat 17:00-) • Tada building 1F, 2-13-16, Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku • 7 mins walk from Toranomon station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line • 03-3504-1555

Asakusa Imahan Since its establishment in 1895, Asakusa Imahan has proudly offered outstanding sukiyaki featuring exclusive Wagyu beef to create their traditional Japanese taste. • 11:30-21:30 (LO 20:30) • 3-1-12, Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku • 5 mins walk from Tawara-machi station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, 10-12 mins walk from Tobu and Toei Subway Asakusa station • http://www.asakusaimahan.co.jp/english/index. html 24 WAttention Tokyo

SUSHI

Definitely, one of the great joys of travel is eating. You can't help but be excited for Japanese cuisine such as sushi, tempura and sukiyaki. It is said that Japanese culture is good at absorbing different styles and merging them with their own. The same is true of its food. Staple traditional dishes constantly evolve into new tastes. So why not taking this opportunity to try some modern variations of those well-known staples? It might be more interesting to try both and compare them. Here is a selection.

SOBA

MODERN

Explore the old Tokyo neighborhood

Japanese fast food with a long history

For foreign visitors, eating sushi in its birthplace, Japan, might be one of the greatest highlights during their stay. Traditional nigiri-zushi consists of a bite-sized serving of vinegared rice and a topping, mainly seasonal fresh fish or seafood. If you sit at the counter and order from an itamae chef in an authentic sushi restaurant, you’ll feel like Japanese. Are you a vegetarian? Don’t be discouraged. How about trying new-type vegetable sushi? That taste makes you remind you are in creative modern Tokyo.

Soba, a thin buckwheat noodle, had long been long sold at soba streets stalls during the Edo period. Now, it is served in various settings all over the country from railway stations to expensive specialty restaurants. There are two ways of serving soba, cold and hot. Though the cold soba is traditionally served with bonito and soy sauce flavored dipping sauce, some soba restaurants give variety to the sauce. One of them is curry flavor, another Japanese favorite. It gives you a spicy new experience.

Potager MARCHE

Kawakamian

Featuring vegetable dishes, this deli-style eat-in/take-out shop offers vegetable sushi. For example, they use roasted tomato and carrot mousse instead of tuna and sea urchin, respectively.

Enjoy traditional handmade fresh soba in the chic, tranquil space of Kawakamian in Aoyama. Buckwheat is milled with a grindstone into flour every day.

• 11:30-22:00, Closed Mon • 2-18-13, Kami-Meguro, Meguro-ku • 5 mins from Naka-Meguro station on Tokyu Toyoko line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya line • http://www.potager-marche.jp/ (Japanese only)

• Lunch 11:30-17:00, Dinner 17:00-4:30 (LO 3:30) • 3-14-1, Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku • 5 mins walk from Subway Omote-Sando station. • http://www.kawakamian.com/ (Japanese only)

TEMPURA

TONK ATSU

Addicted to light crispy touch

A classic example of Yoshoku

Tempura is battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood such as prawn and squid. At many tempura restaurants, a chef cooks your order one by one in front of you and serves them hot so that you can take time to enjoy seasonal fresh ingredients. Do you know tempura can be offered for desert too? It’s ice cream! You will be amazed with its miracle combination of hot outside and cold inside. Actually this avant-garde item is now widely accepted and served as one of the regular menus in some restaurants.

Tonkatsu, pork cutlet, is one of the Yoshoku dishes which was developed in Japan inspired by western cuisine. Dredged in bread crumbs and deep-fried to golden brown, tonkatsu is typically served with shredded cabbage. Pork loin or fillet sliced into one to two centimeters thick is traditionally used, however, recently mille-feuille tonkatsu has gotten popular. This is made from layered thin slices of pork so that you can enjoy a tender juicy texture of the meat.

Tsunahachi

Renga-tei

Ice cream tempura was first introduced by Tsunahachi about 40 years ago. Now it is a specialty of the restaurant. Savor the hot and cold taste with berry sauce.

Serving classic Yoshoku in Ginza for over the century, Renga-tei has been loved by countless fans throughout its history. Their crispy tonkatsu is a must-eat.

• 11:00-22:30 (LO 22:00) • 3-31-8, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku • 3 mins walk from Tokyo Metro ShinjukuSanchome station, 3 min walk from JR Shinjuku station • http://www.tunahachi.co.jp/en/index.html

• Lunch 11:15-15:00, Dinner 16:40-21:00 (-20:45, Sat & Holidays), Closed Sun • 3-5-16, Ginza, Chuo-ku • 3 mins walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza station • http://www.ginza-rengatei.com/index1f. html (Japanese only)

SUKIYAKI

YAKITORI

Hot pot cooked at the table as you eat

Best snack for after-work drinking

Sukiyaki is a hot pot style meal cooked with thinly sliced beef and vegetables in a sweet soy flavored sauce. Usually Japanese people dip the cooked ingredients into a beaten egg before eating them. Traditionally Chinese cabbage, shungiku (garland chrysanthemum), green onion and shiitake mushrooms are picked up as vegetables for sukiyaki, but speaking of modern ingredients – it’s tomato. The fine fusion of its sourness and salty-sweet sauce is gaining popularity.

Basara

Torien

Famous for its tomato sukiyaki, Basara recommends putting flat pasta into the leftover sauce after you eat the sukiyaki. The pasta absorbs the all the flavors of the beef and tomato.

Specializing in chicken, this retro Japanese-style pub offers really authentic yakitori at reasonable prices. Helpfully, every item on the menu comes with a picture.

• Lunch 11:30-14:00 (LO), Dinner 17:30-21:30 (LO) • DNI Mita building B1F, 3-43-16, Shiba, Minato-ku • 8 mins walk from JR Tamachi station and Toei Subway Mita station • http://www.basara.co.jp/ (Japanese only)

• Tue to Sun 12:00-23:40 (13:00- Mon) • 1-2-4, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku • 2 mins walk from JR and Tokyo Metro Shinjuku station, 1 min walk from Seibu Shinjuku station • http://helios-jp.com/torien/about.html (Japanese only) *Credit cards not accepted

Attracted by the smell and smoke of charcoal grilled yakitori, skewered chicken, many office workers eagerly enter yakitori restaurants, the entrance marked by a red lantern. It’s a familiar sight at dusk. All the different parts of the chicken - thighs, skin, liver, wings, etc.- can be used for yakitori and a variety of vegetable skewers are also available in many restaurants. However, in a modern style, vegetables are topped with cheese or rolled with bacon or thinly sliced pork back ribs. It makes you want to drink more!

Yabukyu Long-established yet famous for its modern curry flavor, Yabukyu has been one of the most popular soba restaurants in Nihombashi. • Mon to Fri 11:00-15:30, 17:00-23:00 (LO 22:30), Sat -21:30 (LO 21:00) • 2-1-9, Nihombashi, Chuo-ku • 1 min walk from Subway Nihombashi station and 3 min walk from JR and subway Tokyo station • http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g743300/lang/en/

Kimukatsu 25 layers of thinly sliced high-quality pork are inside! Fried slowly in low temperature for 8 minutes, the rich flavor of the meat is brought to its peak. • 11:00-22:00 LO (-23:00 LO, Fri, Sat and a day before holidays) • 4-9-5, Ebisu, Shibuya-ku • 3 mins walk from JR and Tokyo Metro Ebisu station • http://kimukatsu.com/kimukatsu_eng/

Kushitaro Boasting skewers of vegetables rolled with extra thin sliced pork, Kushitaro offers hearty and healthy snacks. Try them with the special miso sauce. • 17:00-24:00 • Choga building 2F, 3-35-10, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku • 1 min walk from JR and Tokyo Metro Shinjuku station • http://r.gnavi.co.jp/g725602/lang/en/

WAttention Tokyo

JAPANESE STAPLE DISHES TRADITIONAL vs MODERN TRADITIONAL

SUSHI

SOBA

MODERN

Explore the old Tokyo neighborhood

Japanese fast food with a long history

Potager MARCHE

Kawakamian

Featuring vegetable dishes, this deli-style eat-in/take-out shop offers vegetable sushi. For example, they use roasted tomato and carrot mousse instead of tuna and sea urchin, respectively.

Enjoy traditional handmade fresh soba in the chic, tranquil space of Kawakamian in Aoyama. Buckwheat is milled with a grindstone into flour every day.

• 11:30-22:00, Closed Mon • 2-18-13, Kami-Meguro, Meguro-ku • 5 mins from Naka-Meguro station on Tokyu Toyoko line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya line • http://www.potager-marche.jp/ (Japanese only)

• Lunch 11:30-17:00, Dinner 17:00-4:30 (LO 3:30) • 3-14-1, Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku • 5 mins walk from Subway Omote-Sando station. • http://www.kawakamian.com/ (Japanese only)

TEMPURA

TONK ATSU

Addicted to light crispy touch

A classic example of Yoshoku

Tsunahachi

Renga-tei

Ice cream tempura was first introduced by Tsunahachi about 40 years ago. Now it is a specialty of the restaurant. Savor the hot and cold taste with berry sauce.

Serving classic Yoshoku in Ginza for over the century, Renga-tei has been loved by countless fans throughout its history. Their crispy tonkatsu is a must-eat.

SUKIYAKI

YAKITORI

Hot pot cooked at the table as you eat

Best snack for after-work drinking

Basara

Torien

Famous for its tomato sukiyaki, Basara recommends putting flat pasta into the leftover sauce after you eat the sukiyaki. The pasta absorbs the all the flavors of the beef and tomato.

Specializing in chicken, this retro Japanese-style pub offers really authentic yakitori at reasonable prices. Helpfully, every item on the menu comes with a picture.

WAttention Tokyo

Umezono Unlike taiyaki, the pancakes used for traditional dorayaki are moist and spongy. That mild taste is beloved by old and young alike.

It’s a macaron…It’s a dorayaki...It’s doraron! With a fruit flavored coating - strawberry, lemon, orange, blueberry, melon- and white sweet bean paste in between, the look and taste of this colorful treat would satisfy even the pickiest girls.

TRADITIONAL Mukashi Karinto

Blueberry flavor

DORAYAKI

MODERN Mango, Blueberry Karinto

Made of flour, yeast and brown sugar, the traditional karinto is defined by its simple yet firm taste. “Mukashi” means “old days”, so the classic good old flavor is kept. Going well with Japanese tea, it’s also popular as a quick treat.

Nihonbashi Nishikihorin

Opened in 1854 in Asakusa, Umezono is a long-established “wagashi” shop. Preserving the traditional taste, they also offer creative new items. You can buy “Doraron” at their Ikebukuro shop. • 10:00-20:00 • B1F, Tobu Ikebukuro, 1-1-25, Nishi-ikebukuro, Toshima-ku • 03-3981-2211 • West exit of Ikebukuro station on JR line, Tobu Tojo line, Seibu Ikebukuro line, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line, Marunouchi line, Fukutoshin line • http://www.asakusa-umezono.co.jp/ index.html

A bite-sized sweet and deep-fried snack covered with sugar glaze or coarse sugar. The crisp texture and plain sweetness make you keep eating karinto!

K ARINTO

Among the various new flavors of Karinto hit the market recently, fruits flavors have attracted customer’s attention in particular. Innovative mango and blueberry flavors are both worth a try. Its unique sweet and sour flavor might go well with black tea.

Spicing up Japanese traditional snacks with new ideas, Nihonbashi Nishikihorin offers a variety of lineups ideal as a fine gift from Tokyo. • •

Doraron

Mango flavor

Dredged in white coarse sugar

Coated with a brown sugar glaze

Dorayaki

8:00-22:00 (-21:00, Sat, Sun & Holidays) • B1F, Gran Sta, JR Tokyo station, 1-9-1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku 0120-284-240 • Inside the ticket gates of JR Tokyo station • http://www.nishikihorin.com

*Other than Gran Sta shop, there are Nihonbashi main shop, Solamachi shop and Lumine Kita-senju shop. Items vary accoring to shops and seasons.

Japanese Sweets Collection Traditional vs Modern

A palm-size confectionery consisting of sweet red bean paste sandwiched between two round pancakes. Famous as Doraemon’s absolute favorite.

DAIFUKU A soft round glutinous rice cake, called mochi, stuffed with sweetened red bean paste. Starch dusted on the surface prevents the mochi from sticking to fingers.

OK AKI A kind of rice cracker that looks like a toasted mochi cut in pieces. Its simple taste and crunchy texture are irresistible. Once you try, you can’t stop.

Wagashi, conventional Japanese confectionery, is typically made from plant ingredients such as rice and red beans. Along with traditional wagashi, innovative flavors or a combination of new and old have captured young and old consumers’ hearts. Here is a selection of shops where you can enjoy both traditional and modern taste.

TAIYAKI Literally baked sea bream, it is a fish-shaped pancake filled with sweetened red bean paste. Bite it from the head or tail, that’s the question.

Mame Daifuku

Ichigo Daifuku

One of the varieties of traditional daifuku which mixes beans with mochi. It strikes a perfect balance between salty beans and sweet bean paste.

A strawberry is put in the center of a mame daifuku! The strawberry is so fresh that you may not be able to take it back to your country. It is only available in Japan, So don’t miss your chance to taste this heavenly combination of sweet and sour.

Oosumi Tamaya Opened over a century ago, Oosumi Tamaya, the inventor of ichigo daifuku, has been offering a variety of Japanese sweets including custom-made ones. • 9:00-19:30 • 8-25, Sumiyoshi-cho, Shinjuku-ku • 03-3351-7735 • 3 mins walk from Akebonobashi station on Toei Shinjuku line • http:// www.oosumi-tamaya.co.jp/index.html (Japanese only)

Gin no An

Azuki

Traditional taiyaki simply has “anko” red bean paste made from azuki inside. Stuffed with the paste to the end of the tail, it’s a perfect snack when you are a bit hungry.

26 WAttention Tokyo

Cheese curry dog There are many variations for the fillings of taiyaki, such as custard and chocolate. Definitely curry with cheese and sausage would give you a quite novel experience.

A chain of taiyaki shop, Gin no An offers fresh taiyaki baked right in front of you. Fun to try limited time offer fillings. • 10:00-21:00 • 1-9-6, Oosakaue, Hino-city • 042-586-8055 • 1 min walk from Hino station on JR Chuo line • http://www.ginnoan.com/ (Japanese only)

JUKKA Using selected ingredients to bring up the original taste of rice. That’s JUKKA’s concept. Their tasty okaki is a good choice for souvenirs. • 10:00-20:00 (-18:00 Sun & Holidays) • 5-9-8, Minami-aoyama, Minato-ku • 03-3498-0188 • 3 mins walk from Omotesando station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Chiyoda line and Hanzomon line • http://jukka. toyosu.co.jp/index.html

A really new wave of okaki! Actually this is not crunchy but airy. Experience the surprising combination of mochi and sweet-sour strawberry flavor.

Plain salty okaki is one of the most traditional unsweetened snacks that goes well with Japanese tea. Enjoy its light crisp and toasted flavor.

WAttention Tokyo

Dorayaki

Unlike taiyaki, the pancakes used for traditional dorayaki are moist and spongy. That mild taste is beloved by old and young alike.

Coated with a brown sugar glaze

A bite-sized sweet and deep-fried snack covered with sugar glaze or coarse sugar. The crisp texture and plain sweetness make you keep eating karinto!

Mango flavor

Dredged in white coarse sugar

K ARINTO

Umezono

Doraron

Blueberry flavor

DORAYAKI

TRADITIONAL

MODERN

Mukashi Karinto

Mango, Blueberry Karinto

A palm-size confectionery consisting of sweet red bean paste sandwiched between two round pancakes. Famous as Doraemon’s absolute favorite.

Nihonbashi Nishikihorin Spicing up Japanese traditional snacks with new ideas, Nihonbashi Nishikihorin offers a variety of lineups ideal as a fine gift from Tokyo. • •

*Other than Gran Sta shop, there are Nihonbashi main shop, Solamachi shop and Lumine Kita-senju shop. Items vary accoring to shops and seasons.

Japanese Sweets Collection Traditional vs Modern

DAIFUKU A soft round glutinous rice cake, called mochi, stuffed with sweetened red bean paste. Starch dusted on the surface prevents the mochi from sticking to fingers.

OK AKI A kind of rice cracker that looks like a toasted mochi cut in pieces. Its simple taste and crunchy texture are irresistible. Once you try, you can’t stop.

TAIYAKI Literally baked sea bream, it is a fish-shaped pancake filled with sweetened red bean paste. Bite it from the head or tail, that’s the question.

One of the varieties of traditional daifuku which mixes beans with mochi. It strikes a perfect balance between salty beans and sweet bean paste.

Oosumi Tamaya

Ichigo Daifuku A strawberry is put in the center of a mame daifuku! The strawberry is so fresh that you may not be able to take it back to your country. It is only available in Japan, So don’t miss your chance to taste this heavenly combination of sweet and sour.

Opened over a century ago, Oosumi Tamaya, the inventor of ichigo daifuku, has been offering a variety of Japanese sweets including custom-made ones. • 9:00-19:30 • 8-25, Sumiyoshi-cho, Shinjuku-ku • 03-3351-7735 • 3 mins walk from Akebonobashi station on Toei Shinjuku line • http:// www.oosumi-tamaya.co.jp/index.html (Japanese only)

Gin no An A chain of taiyaki shop, Gin no An offers fresh taiyaki baked right in front of you. Fun to try limited time offer fillings.

Azuki

Cheese curry dog

Traditional taiyaki simply has “anko” red bean paste made from azuki inside. Stuffed with the paste to the end of the tail, it’s a perfect snack when you are a bit hungry.

There are many variations for the fillings of taiyaki, such as custard and chocolate. Definitely curry with cheese and sausage would give you a quite novel experience.

26 WAttention Tokyo

• 10:00-21:00 • 1-9-6, Oosakaue, Hino-city • 042-586-8055 • 1 min walk from Hino station on JR Chuo line • http://www.ginnoan.com/ (Japanese only)

A really new wave of okaki! Actually this is not crunchy but airy. Experience the surprising combination of mochi and sweet-sour strawberry flavor.

Plain salty okaki is one of the most traditional unsweetened snacks that goes well with Japanese tea. Enjoy its light crisp and toasted flavor.

WAttention Tokyo

Second Anniversary Special Column

Ready to Host the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics By Eriko Sugita

Olympic gold medalist Kohei Uchimura, promoting Tokyo 2020.

More than 30,000 lanterns are lit up at Tokyo Bay, the proposed site for the Triathlon and Marathon Swimming events, supporting Tokyo’s bid for the 2020 Olympic Games.

The first time around, it had marked Japan’s recovery from post-World War Two ruin. In 2020, Tokyo hopes to celebrate life after overcoming the devastation left by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, it is eager to once again host the Olympic Games. What can be more perfect than a celebration of the abilities of the human race, whether it’s the incredible performances by top athletes at the Olympics and Paralympics, the skills of organizers, the creativity of marketing partners, or the positive air of spectators from all corners of the globe? Also celebrating its second anniversary, WAttention would like to take a look at its beloved city and its bid to host the 2020 Games. Whether or not it’s “Abenomics” or some other factor at work, people have recently been mentioning that economic conditions in Japan seem to be on an upturn. While there’s still a long way to go for the full recovery of northern Japan, businesses 28 WAttention Tokyo

and factories are being reconstructed and are resuming operations, and supplies are once again plentiful. People are smiling again. The time has come for Japan to celebrate life with the rest of the world. It is ready to give back by setting the scene for the Games, bringing together technology, innovation, creativity, hospitality, and the Olympic spirit. Tokyo is a unique city where everything coexists. It’s the capital for sport, fashion, entertainment, business, politics, education, and practically everything else. Visitors are often amazed at the on-time train schedule, where an apology is announced at a train station for a two-minute delay in a train’s arrival. While crowded trains and traffic congestion can sometimes be a pain in the neck, the reliability of operations make up for the frustration, not to mention the convenience of having everything close at hand. Tokyo is highlighting its commitment to deliver an ultra-compact Summer Games, and when venturing into the city and its outskirts, visitors can rest assured that there will

be many options to choose from for their every need. Is your preference aesthetic beauty? History? Shopping for high fashion? Exploring manga and anime? Trying out a “batting center” to slug homers from machine-fed pitches? Gourmet dining? Or taking a soak in a public bathhouse? It’s all likely just a train ride or two away. Tokyo prides itself as being one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world, where a woman can feel safe walking to a convenience store alone at any time of night. Safe, organized, and eager to please, it has fun facilities for kids and adults alike. Although Japan’s economic bubble had burst and severe damage had since been incurred by the Tohoku earthquake in 2011, the development of a new Olympic legacy will be a fantastic way to restore its confidence. For inspiring the next generation on peace, sportsmanship, and mutual understanding, WAttention hopes that Tokyo will get a chance to host the Games and share its many wonders with the world.

PROFILE Born in Japan and raised in beautiful Vancouver, BC, Canada, Eriko Sugita is a former reporter-turned-photographer at Reuters and currently provides translation and editorial services out of her home, situated halfway between central Tokyo and Narita airport.

When you’re feeling a little down, top up your Qi!

気を感じる東京のスポット

Meiji Shrine Shrine nestled in a tranquil forest in the heart of Tokyo

GET CHARGED UP: TOKYO POWER SPOT

Omotesando, literally means a main approach to a shrine or a temple. Omotesando connecting crowded Harajuku and Aoyama leads you to the serene Meiji Shrine as its main approach.

Explore the natural riches in the most popular shrine in Japan for the first visit of the year Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken, Meiji Shrine sits in a huge forest, which covers 700,000 square-meters, right next to Harajuku station. The Emperor Meiji was the first modern Japanese emperor after the long rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. During the Emperor Meiji’s reign from 1868 to 1912, Japan underwent a period of rapid westernization, transforming itself from an isolated feudal nation to a world power. After the demise of Emperor Meiji in 1912 and Empress Shoken in 1914, when the construction of a shrine to enshrine their souls was decided, people donated 100,000 trees from all over Japan, and 110,000 volunteers worked to create the forest. Usually a shrine forest consists of cedar and cypress as seen in Nikko Toshogu Shrine or Ise Shrine. However, visionary scholars of that time chose other evergreens such as camphor and oak in order to encourage natural regeneration of the forest because they thought these trees were more suitable for the loamy layer of the Kanto district. Now this manmade forest has 170,000 trees made of 245 species, and a natural forest cycle as the scholars expected.

You can write your wishes on ema (wooden tablet) and hang it up to make your dreams come true. The deities can receive any language! In the Meiji Shrine Garden there is Kiyomasa’s well, natural spring water quite rare in urban areas. With several water sources it never dries up.

Once you pass under the first torii shrine gate, you can feel the life force of the forest. Have a short escape from the bustle of the city and savor the sacred atmosphere.

The shrine offers many kinds of lucky charms.

Before praying to the deities, you should rinse your hands and mouth with a hishaku (wooden dipper) for purification at temizuya (water cleansing pavilion).

Information

Meiji Shrine

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset (Hours vary according to months) Address: 1-1, Yoyogi-Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku Access: 1 min walk from Harajuku station on JR line and Meiji-jingumae station on Tokyo Metro Chiyoda/ Fukutoshin line URL: http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/index.html

WAttention Tokyo

Japan's Fine Tableware Vol.3

Celebrating Mount Fuji’s Registration as W orld Heritage Site with Noritake’s Fujiyama Beautiful Mount Fuji, Japan’s pride and joy, has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And now you can enjoy its majestic form in the comfort of your home. The contrast between young pines, exuding vitality, and the timeless quality of Mt. Fuji, a symbol of permanence, is a work of art. Aka-Fuji Decorative plate 21,000yen size: 27 cm in diameter; personal names or company names may be engraved. Additional charge applies. Pr e s

ent

To celebrate the second anniversary of WAttention, a special Aka-Fuji plate (in the picture) engraved with commemorative words of Mt. Fuji being listed as World Heritage, is offered to our readers. To win the prize, check out WAttention’s website at: www.wattention.com

AKA-FUJI “Aka-Fuji” (“Red Fuji”), when the face of the mountain appears to be painted red, has been revered as a lucky omen since old times. It is believed to draw in good luck, financial success, prosperity, and long life.

Aka-Fuji Fan-shaped porcelain panel 36,750yen size: 23.5 x 36 cm

Timeless Fuji Yukyu-no-Fuji 315,000yen size: 36.5 cm in diameter

Noritake GINZA With the various expressions that it shows depending on the time of year or the particular play of light, Mount Fuji has captured people’s hearts both at home and abroad—the vibrant colors at sunrise or at sunset, its snow-capped form, or the fresh green tones of spring. Some foreign tourists visit Japan just to see the mountain. 30 WAttention Tokyo

Its awe-inspiring beauty is called God’s territory and has been loved since ancient times as a subject for the various arts, such as ukiyoe and colored woodblock printing. Noritake has provided an answer to people’s desires to more casually enjoy the appeal of Mount Fuji with its art collection series. A splendid work of art that

only the global brand Noritake, the first in Japan to succeed in the manufacturing of bone china and the country’s pioneer in producing dinner sets, is able to accomplish. Enjoy Mount Fuji the World Heritage Site depicted as an art form in a fusion of the superior technology, design, and craftsmanship of Noritake.

•Address: Bunshodo Building 2F, 3-4-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo •Number of products on exhibit: Approximately 1,000 •Hours: 11:00 – 19:30. Open all year (except for New Year’s holidays) •TEL: 03-3567-6121 •Access: 1-minute walk from A13 exit, Ginza Station, on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line •URL: http://www.noritake.co.jp/tableware/shoplist/index.html

WAttention Tokyo

Japan's Fine Tableware Vol.3

ent

Aka-Fuji Fan-shaped porcelain panel 36,750yen size: 23.5 x 36 cm

Timeless Fuji Yukyu-no-Fuji 315,000yen size: 36.5 cm in diameter

WAttention Tokyo

A BITE-SIZE BREAK IN TOK YO

VOL.2 JINGU GAIEN - A HUGE SPORTS COMPLEX WITH LOTS OF FUN

T O K Y O H A L F - D AY S A N P O SANPO

WAttention’s Tokyo Navigator

Charles Chen Taiwan-born Charles has a yen for all sorts of new and fun stuff made in Japan. Tokyo is his latest stop after several years of adventuring across Europe.

Noun. Sanpo is the act of walking that aims to refresh oneself or simply satisfy one’s curiosity, sometimes without a particular destination in mind.

さんぽ［散歩］

Tokyo is full of activities and venues for sports lovers. Not only can you watch your favorite team playing, you can also take part in playing it!

Rugby

Soccer

As the host for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Japan is gearing up its preparation on and off the field. Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, known as a sacred field for rugby fans, will be one of the venues for the world cup. Though the host nation may be considered an underdog, Japan just recorded a historic first win over Wales right here at Chichibunomiya in June, and will play against the All Blacks in November!

In Japan, the popularity of soccer has been soaring since the nation’s professional soccer league (J. League) kicked off in 1993. National Stadium served as the main stadium for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It is also known as the sacred field for soccer fans as the Japanese national team (aka Samurai Blue) usually plays their home matches here.

Running

Baseball

A running boom has been taking shape in Japan as the huge success of Tokyo Marathon has motivated more and more people to start running. Though the running route around Imperial Palace is the most popular, I am recommending the circular course around Jingu Gaien because it is less crowded, especially from 18:00 to 20:00. Moreover, you might get inspired running here because it used to be the training base of Haruki Murakami.

If there is a nation more in love with baseball than the U.S., it might be Japan. From amateur tournament to professional baseball league, the passion can be felt almost all year round! To experience this national pastime, head to Jingu Stadium for a game of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. You’ll see fans screaming and waving umbrellas (Yes! That’s what fans do when the Swallows score) in the stands as they cheer for the home team.

Information

More to discover

National Stadium

Cycling

http://www.jpnsport.go.jp/kokuritu/

Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium

http://www.jpnsport.go.jp/chichibunomiya/

Jingu Stadium

http://www.jingu-stadium.com/

Tokyo Yakult Swallows baseball team http://www.yakult-swallows.co.jp/

Samurai Blue - Japanese national soccer team http://samuraiblue.jp/

The circular road around Jingu Gaien becomes a cycling course on Sundays. Bicycle rentals and lessons for children are also available.

Batting center

Wanna try your skills at baseball batting? There is a batting cage near Jingu Stadium where you can simulate hitting against professional pitchers!

ACCESS

Yoyogi National Gymnasium

Though slightly far off from Jingu Gaien, the beautifully designed arena is worth a visit. Concerts are also held here regularly. ©Yasufumi Nishi/© JNTO

32 WAttention Tokyo

Take JR Chuo line to Shinamomachi station, or Tokyo Metro Ginza line to Gaienmae station, or Hanzomon line to Aoyama-itchome station.

T O K Y O M U S T D O A restaurant with a stunning view or a secret hideaway, Tokyoites share their personal favourites with you. Linshibi Though living in Taiwan, Linshibi has visited Tokyo so many times he knows Tokyo like his backyard. He has been sharing Tokyo tourist information on his blog and facebook, as well as writing a book on Tokyo hotels.

http://kunghc.pixnet.net/blog http://www.facebook.com/japantravel

林氏璧さんブログ、Facebookで東京の観光情報を発信、ホテルに関する本も執筆しているパワーブロガー。台湾在住だが、頻繁に遊びに来ている東京は自分の家の庭のようなもの。

Sky Lounge Stellar Garden, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo スカイラウンジステラガーデン、ザ・プリンスパークタワー東京 4-8-1 Shibakoen, Minato-ku 港区芝公園4-8-1 http://www.princehotels.com/en/ parktower/sky-lounge-stellar-garden

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 浅草文化観光センター 2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku 台東区雷門2-18-9 http://www.city.taito.lg.jp/index/bunka_kanko/ kankocenter/a-tic-gaiyo.html

Yanaka Ginza shopping streets. 谷中銀座商店街 3-13-1 Yanaka, Taito-ku 台東区谷中3-13-1 http://www.yanakaginza.com/home.html

1 Sky Lounge Stellar Garden

2 Ya-Ne-Sen

Opened in 2005, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo is probably the best hotel to admire the city’s landmark Tokyo Tower. I was so moved to see the magnificent Tokyo Tower right from my room. If you cannot afford to splurge for a night’s stay, at least you should try its specialty cocktail with your loved one in the Sky Lounge Stellar Garden on the 33rd floor.

The three neighbourhoods, Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi are collectively called Ya-NeSen. The area suffered considerably less damage during WWII and hence a traditional atmosphere is preserved here. Apart from admiring historic buildings, you may also count how many cats you meet, since Ya-Ne-Sen is famous as a cat town. Last but not least, don’t forget to visit the lively Yanaka Ginza shopping streets!

2005 年オープンのプリンスパークタワー東京は、東京タワーを見るのに最高の場所。33 階の「スカイラウンジ

谷中・根津・千駄木、まとめて谷根千。戦災の被害が

ステラガーデン」で恋人とカクテルでも飲みながら。

少なかったため、昔ながらの雰囲気が残っている。猫が多いことでも有名。谷中銀座商店街もお見逃しなく！

3 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Wakana, a traditional Japanese Inn in Kagurazaka. 和可菜 4-7 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku 新宿区神楽坂4-7

Designed by famous architect Kuma Kengo, the tourist information center is modern, stylish, yet exudes a feeling of nostalgia. The viewing deck on the 8th floor offers a space for taking a break while enjoying a magnificent view. I am recommending this place because there are few buildings in Asakusa that get you a good view of Sensoji temple and Nakamise shopping street. Most importantly, it’s totally free!

4 Kagurazaka If you’re a fan of the idol group Arashi, you must not miss Kagurazaka because the area was revived as a sightseeing destination by a Japanese drama featuring Kazunari Ninomiya, a member of Arashi. Many Japanese and French restaurants and bars line the small alleys. Among them is Wakana, a traditional Japanese inn that appeared in Kazunari Ninomiya’s drama and Yui Aragaki’s Tokyo Metro commercial. 嵐の二宮君のドラマで再注目された神楽坂。細い路地

建築家隈研吾が設計した浅草文化観光センターは、

には和食やフレンチのレストラン、バーが軒を連ねる。ド

モダンだがどこか懐かしさを感じさせる。8 階の展望台

ラマや CM にも登場した老舗旅館、和可菜もある。

からは浅草寺と仲見世通りが一望できる。しかも無料！ WAttention Tokyo

What's On

September - November 2013

Festivals and events in this season

東京のお祭り、季節のイベント

Internet Access in Tokyo 東京のネット接続事情

Although Japan is known for its technology, internet connectivity for tourists is still rather limited. These days even most of the budget hotels provide internet connection in each room (please note, LAN cable is still in common use, rather than WIFI). There is a free public WIFI network called FREESPOT (www. freespot.com/users/map_e. html) made up of a network of independent providers like cafes and shops, but it seems many of its spots require registration via 3G email. so this could be offputting for tourists who don't want to use expensive 3G roaming. Wi2 300 (www.wi2.co.jp/ en) offers several services, including 6 hours connection for 350 yen. They have extensive instructions in English so check it out before you go out. Wireless Gate (www.wirelessgate.co.jp) offers even wider services, including one month connection for a fixed 480 yen that includes connecting spots on the Bullet train (only N700 model) and in Underground stations. Unfortunately Wireless Gate doesn't have an English instructions page. FON network (http://maps. fon.com/?lang=en) is quite extensive throughout Tokyo and is recommended. 東京のホテルは多くが客室でのネット接続を提供している。街中での無料WIFIネットワークで有名なのは FREESPOT（www.freespot.com/ users/map_e.html）だがあまり多くない。モバイルをよく使う人は日や月単位で利用料を払うWIFIサービスが便利だろう。6800ポイントを持つWi2 300（www.wi2.co.jp/en）は 6時間350円からで英語での利用説明が充実。ワイヤレスゲート（www. wirelessgate.co.jp）は地下鉄構内や新幹線コンコース待合室・新幹線 N700系車両で利用できるコースを月額480円からで用意。どちらも成田空港で利用できる。

More information is available at Wattention.com WAttentionの情報をネットでも！

http://www.wattention.com/

34 WAttention Tokyo

The 76th Tokyo International Gift Show Autumn 2013

Wed - Fri, Sep 4th – Sep 6th Over 400 new products will be presented for exhibition. The theme for the 76th event is enjoying an active lifestyle with outdoor living. ［第76回東京インターナショナル・ギフト・ショー秋 2013］マーケット活性化のため、毎回様々な商品が出展されるイベント。今回のテーマは、アクティブな

party ticket needed). ［能楽祭］ユネスコにより世界遺産と認められた能楽の常日頃のファンへの感謝祭。素敵な賞品が当たるお楽しみ抽選会の実施やパーティ付券でカクテルパーティも。

14:30 – 17:00 at Hosho Nogakudo, 3 mins walk from Suidobashi station on Chuo, Sobu lines. Three types of ticket starting from 2,500 yen (5,500 yen with additional party ticket). http://www.nohgaku.or.jp/playinginfo/info. html?id=1146 (Japanese only)

ライフスタイルを楽しむアウトドアリビング。

Held at Tokyo Big Sight. 3 mins walk from Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon station on Yurikamome line. http://www.giftshow.co.jp/english/76tigs/

Asakusa Toro E

Sat - Sat, Sep 14th - Sep 28th 300 lanterns illuminate historical corners of Asakusa in an enchanting mood. If you are visiting nearby TOKYO SKYTREE, take a little detour for a romantic stroll in cool evening breeze. ［浅草燈籠会］「陽（のぼる）」をテーマに300基の燈籠が浅草の町をロマンチックに演出。

Sunset - 21:30 around Sensoji temple. 5 mins walk from Asakusa station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Tsukuba Express line and Tobu line. http://www.enjoytokyo.jp/amuse/ event/662662/ (Japanese only)

2013 September Grand Sumo Tournament

Sun - Sun, Sep 15th - 29th Experience the powerful and exciting world of sumo live! Matches run daily and all-day long starting with rookies in the morning, and working up to grand champions in the evening.

［大相撲九月場所］幕下から横綱まで相撲の魅力と迫力を体験するにはぜひ両国国技館へ。

At Ryogoku Kokugikan, 1 min walk from JR Ryogoku station. Tickets are available at the box office; from 2100 yen-. http://www.sumo.or.jp/en/index

Nohgakusai ①

Thu, Sep 26th Nohgaku is a tradition with over 600 years of history, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage. Nohgakusai is a festival of appreciation to supporting fans, with lottery and a cocktail party (additional

The 25th Ningyou Kanshasai

Sun, Oct 6th In Japan, it is believed that soul resides in a doll. This festival is for appreciating and purifying old and used dolls. The view of all dolls displayed on the corridor circling the shrine is breathtaking. ［第25回人形感謝祭］毎年古くなったり壊れたりした人形をお祓い。持参された人形が本殿回廊に設けられた奉鎮台を埋め尽くす光景は圧巻。

9:00 - 15:00 at Meiji Jingu. About 1 min walk from Harajuku station on JR Yamanote line. http://www.ningyou-kanshasai.com/index.html (Japanese only)

26th Tokyo International Film Festival

Thu - Fri, Oct 17th - Oct 25th A wide variety of international films from Hollywood majors to foreign art house favorites will be shown in one week. The opening film this year is Captain Phillips of the U.S., and the closing film is The Kiyosu Conference of Japan.

［第26回東京国際映画祭］1週間の間にハリウッド大作から外国のアートシアター系の映画まで幅広い種類の映画が出品される映画祭。

Tickets will be available from Oct 27th. Please contact the organizer for details.

Nihon-Bashi Kyo-Bashi Festival, The 41th O-Edo Kakki Parade Sun, October 27th In the Edo era, Nihonbashi was known as the starting point of the five streets spreading all over Japan. Have a fun time watching the parades of drum and fife bands and mascot characters.

［日本橋・京橋まつり大江戸活枠パレード］歴史的に日本全国に張り巡らされた五街道の起点とい

う歴史を持つ日本橋にて繰り広げられる大パレード。鼓笛隊やぬいぐるみも。

The parade will take place on the main street of Chuo-dori, between Kyobashi sanchome and Nihonbashi muromachi. http://www.nikkyo.net/ (Japanese only)

Aoyama Festival

Fri - Sun, Oct 25th - 27th The 3-day long festivity in posh Aoyama area is filled with fun like parades, open air markets and other exciting events in collaboration with the local business establishments and embassies. ［青山まつり2013］地元商店街をはじめ、各国大使館も動員する青山の秋まつり。

18:00- (Fri), 11:00-18:00 (Sat & Sun) in Aoyama near Tokyo Metro Omotesando station. For details, check their website. http://aoyama-matsuri.jp/e/

Asakusa Tori no Ichi ②

Sun, Fri, Wed, November 3rd, 15th, 27th A traditional annual festival held on the day of tori (rooster) on Chinese calendar. Amongst colorful merchandize, decorated bamboo rakes are popular charm from the festival to “rake in” good luck. ［浅草酉の市］酉の日にある開運招福・商売繁盛願のお祭。縁起熊手で福をかき込もう。

Held at Juzaikan Chokoku-ji in Asakusa. 10 mins walk from Iriya and Minowa stations on Tokyo Metro Hibiya line. http://www.torinoichi.jp/english/index.htm

Tokyo Jidai Matsuri ③

Mon, Nov 4th Asakusa boasts a long history that goes back to centuries ago. The festival is to appeal the history and uniqueness of Asakusa, a must-see area for visitors from all over the world. ［東京時代まつり］浅草の歴史は長く、その存在は東京が形成される以前よりあった。この祭りは世界で愛される浅草の存在と独自性をアピールするためにはじめられた。

The parade starts at Sensoji temple and continue to the neighborhood around Asakusa. 5 mins walk from Asakusa station on Tokyo Metro Ginza line and Tobu line. http://www.city.taito.lg.jp/index/event/kanko/ toukyouzidaimatsuri.html (Japanese only)

Noritake Garden

where the dream began Around a century ago, the history of Noritake began with a single dinner plate. Noritake Garden was opened to commemorate the 100th anniversary of NORITAKE CO., LIMITED. Nestled in the city center of Nagoya, the garden is a lush luxury for everyone to unwind.

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology Noritake Shinmachi 4

Sengen-cho

ine

a goy

Na Kintetsu Nagoya Main Line (RIGHT SIDE, TOP TO BOTTOM)

Noritake GINZA

Nagoya

Nagoya International Center

Nakamura Ward Oﬃce

Lin

Line

ain

Main

oya

aid

Nag

Tok

etsu

Marunouchi Noritake Garden Entrance

Sotobori Dori

Noritake Shinmachi

Meit

Kamejima

Wanouchi-cho

Nishiyabushita Car/pedestrian entrance

Noritake Garden

uru

Pedestrian entrance

Nag. Sta. Entrance

Sasashima

•Hours: Craft Center & Nagoya 10:00~17:00; Shops Expressway 1 0 : 0 0 ~1 8 : 0 0 ; R e s t a u r a n t 11:30~14:30 (Lunch); 15:00~16:00 Sakura Dori Marunouchi0 (Dinner); ( Tea);Line 17:30~22:0 Subway Closed on Mondays •Address: Sakura Dori 3 -1- 3 6 N o r i t a k e s h i n m a c h i , Higashiyama Nishi-ku, •TEL: 052-561Fushimi Subway Line Nagoya 7290 •Admission: Free for most Nishikibashi Exit Nishiki Dori facilities; 500 yen for Craft Center and Museum •URL: http://www. Hirokoji Dori noritake.co.jp/eng/mori/ Marunouchi Exit Museum

Noritake SAKAE

•Hours: 11:00~19:30 •Address: Bunshodo B u i l d i n g 2F, 3 - 4-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo •TEL: 03-3567-6121 •URL: http://www.noritake.co.jp/tableware/ shoplist/ginza.html

•Hours: 10:00~18:00; closed on the 1st and 3rd Sundays •Address: 2-1 Shin sakaemachi, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi •TEL: 052-951-0561 •URL: http://www.noritake.co.jp/tableware/ shoplist/sakae.html