WAttention Singapore vol 32

Singapore Edition

Tokyo - Taiwan - L.A. - Malaysia - Thailand - Paris - Mumbai - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico

TA K E FREE May / Jun 2016 VOL.32 MCI (P) 112/12/2015

MEGURI: TEEMING SEA, TRANQUIL LAND

KYARY PAMYU PAMYU 5iVE YEARS MONSTER WORLD TOUR IN SINGAPORE

MOUSE ON THE KEYS

rts with a e h t o t in Dive

R E P SU – N JA PA @ESPL AN

MOUSE ON THE KEYS

ADE

J A PA NESE SPORT S CULTURE | DISCOV ER HOK UTO | SHOPPING IN SHINJUK U

暦 Koyomi 5th May

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

Ta n g o n o S e k k u 端午の節供

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

One of the Gosekku, or five seasonal festivals featured in the Chinese lunar calendar of the Tang Dynast y, is the Tango no Sekku, now known as “Children’s Day ”. On this day, samurai helmets or warrior figurines, as well as carp streamers are displayed in celebration and hope for the robust grow th of children, in particular boys. Originally a day for “herb har vesting”, this has become a part of Japan’s seasonal landscapes. Vitalizing herbs are picked on this day to mark the change in the seasons.

According to the lunar calendar, May is known as the Month of the Horse. This is also the start of the rainy season,

when cold rainfall cools the body and is the cause of long illnesses. During this time, ancestors chose Tango no Sekku, the day charged with the most energ y to head to the mountains to pick herbs.

The women would pick the herbs while the men would hunt for deer and take their horns which are prized for their medicinal value. The origin for this custom is ancient, with records harking back to the year 611 when the Empress went to har vest herbs at Nara and used these to warm her body. This was done by boiling the herbs to drink or inhaling the fragrance of the herbs. Clothes were infused with the fragrance of herbs and herb sachets were also carried around.

Tango no Sekku evolved into a day to pray for the healthy development of boys from the Tokugawa era. The custom of displaying warrior figurines stemmed from the name of the Iris flower – believed to improve blood circulation and help to ward away evil spirits – that sounds like the respectful term for warrior, to reflect this auspicious propert y.

Rieko Ido A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on findings to apply them to modern lifestyles.

Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

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What is WAttention?

WAttention is a name created by combining “ 和 ” (WA) - meaning all things Japanese - with “attention”, referring to our mission to bring attention to the best of Japan.

“Wa” also bears the connotation of “linking”, which is what WAttention aims to do as a bridge linking Japan and the world.

We are the largest-circulating free magazine to introduce Japan’s unique culture as it is and tourism sights as they are to readers all over the world, in either English or the local language.

2012.10 launched

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SPORTS, SHOPPING AND ARTS

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In Harmony with the Seasons

Publisher

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Minook International (S) Pte Ltd 2B Craig Road Singapore 089662 Tel: (65) 6324-2127 E-mail: singapore@wattention.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

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Pop into Culture at Super Japan WAttention’s picks for must-see programmes at the Japanese Festival of Arts

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Go Team Japan

Everything you need to know about traditional and popular sports in Japan

Yasuko Suzuki

Singapore Edition Producer Teppei Nitobe

Editor in Chief Naoki Kiyota

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Editorial Team

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Hokuto City, Little Hokkaido

Discover spectacular nature and culture just two hours away from Tokyo 22

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Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay

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Why “WAttention”?

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WAttention is so named with the hope that people in the world would pay more “Attention” to “WA（ 和 ）”; an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself! 世 界 中 の 人 々に「 和 」 （WA）に 注 目（Attention）してほしいという願 いを 込 めて WA+Attention= WAttentionと名づけました。

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Contributor Aki Tajima

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Kasuga Grand Shrine Nara City Tourist Association

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WATTENTION is a publication of Minook International (S) Pte Ltd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonafide information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law. The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher.

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アテンション！新登場

WAt’S Tanjong Pagar

Kajiken 歌志軒 Orchid Hotel #01-07, 1 Tras Link Mon-Fri 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm (L.O.9.30pm) Sat, Sun, PH 11.30am – 10pm (L.O.9.30pm)

Singapore’s 1st Mazesoba dry ramen shop Located at Orchid Hotel, this homely joint is a Nagoya native that specialises in Mazesoba.

The dish takes its name from the Japanese words maze (まぜ, mix) and soba (そば, noodles).

The noodles are served with a variety of toppings that you can choose from, including braised pork, cod roe and mayonnaise, charshu, flavoured egg and more. For the full original flavour, mix the noodles and ingredients together for 20 seconds before eating. If you prefer it with a twist, try adding chilli oil, tare sauce or vinegar. Those with heartier appetites can also enjoy a free noodle upgrade from 140g to 210g.

If it is your first time having Mazesoba, go for their Mazesoba Nagoya Style which is served with spicy minced pork, soft boiled egg, seaweed and vegetables.

Mazesoba Nagoya Style ................ $12.80 Mazesoba with soft boiled egg ..... $12.30 Mazesoba with all toppings .......... $15.80

Suntec City

Robot Kitty Singapore Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 403 11 - 21 June 2016 | 10am - 8pm robotkitty.com.sg

Adults $22 (Early Bird), $28 (Standard Price) Child and Senior Citizen $11 (Early Bird), $14 (Standard Price)

[ Promotion ] Mention “WAttention”

& get a FREE Potato Salad. *Valid till end of June.

Robertson Quay

TEPPAN BAR Q テッパン バー キュー Robertson Walk #01-21/22, 11 Unity Street | 6235-0629 Daily 6pm - 12am Teppan Bar Q

Course Menu ......................................................... $60/$80/$100 Roasted Hakata Mentai ...................................................... $8.90 Borsao (wine) ...........................................................................$70 Kitaya Kansansui (sake) .........................................................$130

Dig into Hakata-style teppanyaki with gusto This newly opened Japanese-grill diner has a relaxing bar atmosphere that is perfect for after-work nibbles and drinks.

The open concept of the bar allows diners to watch the chef as he prepares freshly grilled dishes “live”. Be sure to try one of the owner’s specially selected Spanish wines or Japanese sake while you are there.

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WAttention Singapore

Hello Kitty goes high-tech This June, avid Hello Kitty fans can go on a quest to become engineers at Sanrio Robotics Institute. The futuristic event has a unique “5 Interactive Gaming Departments” filled with challenges that visitors can complete to win amazing prizes. Exclusive Robot Kitty merchandise will also be available to ticket holders only. Plus, fans will have a chance to meet Hello Kitty designer Yuko Yamaguchi on 20 June.

RESTAUR ANTS | SHOPS | EVENTS

Chinatown

Ginza KACYO Singapore

花蝶

46 Bukit Pasoh Road | 6327-8414 | Mon-Fri Noon - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10.30pm Sat & PH 6pm - 10.30pm Closed Sun kacyo.com/sg/en/

Bara Chirashi with small Udon ...........................................................$20 Lunch Omakase ............................................................................. from $45 Kacho Course ................................................................................. from $88

New Japanese ryōtei style restaurant opens in Singapore Launched by JA ZENNOH (National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Association) and Ristorante Oso group in Singapore, this luxurious traditional Japanese restaurant is all about excellent service and high quality dishes. They serve A5 grade wagyu, fresh Japanese seafood, seasonings and Uonuma Koshihikari rice prepared by a skillful chef. Plus, manager Yasco Yokoyama is an experienced wine and sake sommelier.

Orchard

Ramen Keisuke

Kani King

蟹王

Cathay Cineleisure Orchard #01-03, 8 Grange Road | 6262-6968 Mon-Thu Noon - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm Fri & PH eve Noon - 3pm, 5pm - 2am Sat Noon - 2am Sun & PH Noon - 10pm

Kani Tama Ramen (Crab broth with mixed fried omelet)....................$13.90 Crab Tsukemen (Dipping noodle) ....................................................$13.90 Crab broth Ramen (Clear soup)................................................$12.90 Crab broth Ramen (Rich soup) .................................................$13.90 Spicy Crab broth Ramen ..................................................... $14.90

The Ramen King strikes again Another creative take on ramen from the ramen revolutionist, the 2011 Ramen Champion Takeda Keisuke has introduced a new flavour to our local noodle scene. Using his French culinary experience, he has created an all-new Crab Broth Ramen that comes in fi ve different styles, affordably priced starting from $12.90.

Somerset

POMPOMPURIN Café Orchard Central #04-08, 181 Orchard Road | 6509-8672 | 11am - 10.30pm Pompompurin Café Singapore pompompurincafesg (L.O.10pm)

Taco Rice in a Cup of Friendship ................................$19.99 POMPOMPURIN’s Beef Stroganoff ............................$18.99 POMPOMPURIN’s Mango Parfait ................................$19.99 Cookies & Cream Caramel Latte ................................. $11.99

POMPOMPURIN opens first Southeast Asia cafe

Sony

Opening its doors on 18 April at Orchard Central, fans can expect an authentic experience of all things POMPOMPURIN at the café.

Taking on the theme of “Garden City”, Singapore’s café has four Tomodachi House booths, each featuring one of Purin’s friends.

The Café’s Grand Menu will feature delicious dishes styled after Purin’s adorable character. Also available are exclusive Purin merchandise such as mugs, pens and more.

Sony.com.sg

Sony releases new Cyber-shot RX10 III The star of Sony’s latest addition to the RX family has an incredibly large array of features.

The versatile 24-600mm ZEISS Vario-Sonnar F2.4-F4 Lens, 20.1 megapixels, 1.0-type Stacked CMOS sensor and super-fast intelligent AF make it the ideal camera for a wide range of shooting conditions.

Plus, the camera can has Internal 4K Video Recording and Super Slow Motion Capabilities which is great for capturing videos!

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SUPER JAPAN –

P O P I N T O @ESPL ANADE 13 - 22 MAY 2016 C U LT U R E AT S U P E R J A PA N — From the traditional to unconventional, Esplanade’s first ever Super Japan– Japanese Festival of Arts has a bit of something for all Japanophiles.

Here are some acts you just cannot miss.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS!

R U O T D L R O W R E T S N O M ARS KPP 5iVE YE The Fashion Monster is back.

Now bigger, brighter and more fabulous than ever, she plans to kick off her five-year anniversary with a loud, colourful world tour starting with Singapore.

As part of her celebrations, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu will also be releasing her first best-of album KPP BEST featuring 23 of her most well-known singles from the past five years, including Invader Invader, Kira Kira Killer and Fashion Monster. The album will also feature a brand-new song, 5iVE YEARS MONSTER.

2016 Y A 13 M

yu m a P yu m a P Kyary

Price: $88 ^, $118 ^ Time: 8pm (Performed in Japanese) Duration: 1hr 30mins (No intermission) Location: Esplanade Theatre

M O US E O N TH E KE YS

MEGURI: TEEMING SEA, TRANQUIL LAND

20 MAY 2016

20 - 21 MAY 2016

By combining various musical elements such as jazz, funk, contemporary, classical, post-rock and electronica, mouse on the keys has created an eclectic and expressive musical style that is entirely their own.

Set against a stage inspired by fossilised Palaeozoic sea lilies (Crinoids), Meguri dives deeply into the themes of circulation and rotation. Dancers draw the audience into the metaphorical world of dance with a blend of intense and delicate moves.

The talented trio perform mainly using drums and pianos and often incorporate stunning visuals in their live shows.

This time they will also be joined by saxophonist Jun Nemoto, trumpeter Daisuke Sasaki and VJ artist Rokapenis.

Price: $35* Time: 7.30pm & 10pm

Duration: 1hr (No intermission) Location: Esplanade Recital Studio

Performed by one of the world’s most-sought after butō companies, Sankai Juku has won numerous awards and has performed in over 700 cities and 45 countries.

Price: $28*, $48*, $78^ Time: 8pm

Duration: 1hr 30mins (No intermission) Location: Esplanade Theatre

For full list of programmes and details, please visit www.esplanade.com/superjapan | Tickets sold at SISTIC | *Check website for concession prices and ^Esplanade&Me specials.

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E E R F S T N EVE

YOU SHOULD NOT MISS!

13 MAY

KODO & HIBIKIYA Kickstart your Super Japan experience by discovering the pounding heartbeat of Japanese taiko drums.

16 - 17 MAY 2016

Harmony: A Choral Performance by Anglican High School Choir and Japanese Secondary School Enjoy an evening of easy-listening Japanese choral works conducted by Terrence Toh, accompanied by April Foo.

PRINCESS KAGUYA

14 MAY

This 10th-century Japanese monogatari (物語 , traditional Japanese fictional prose narrative) tells of a childless couple who find a baby in a bamboo stalk. The couple lovingly raise the girl into a great beauty who is wooed by princes and even the Emperor of Japan. However, little do they know that Princess Kaguya is actually from the moon and her time with them is running out.

Tokyo Jazz in Singapore

DAYS

Groove to jazz performances by fox capture plan, Adam at, PRIMITIVE ART ORCHESTRA and ShroederHeadz throughout the weekend.

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Kamishibai Storytelling

DAYS

Be captivated by this interactive, traditional Japanese storytelling session, led by award-winning storytellers Roger Jenkins and Kamini Ramachandran.

Retold through the art of shadow puppetry by Japan’s premier shadow puppet troupe, Silhouette Theater Tsunobue, the performance can be enjoyed by all ages but highly recommended for children aged 5-8 years old. There is also an interactive segment where they can sing along.

Price: $25* Time: 11am & 2pm (Mon), 9am, 11am & 4pm (Tue)

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by Tokyo Jazz Festival

15 MAY

Teru Teru Bozu Workshop Make your own traditional Japanese rain-preventive charms out of felt or cloth and dress them up as different characters.

Duration: 1hr (No intermission) Location: Esplanade Recital Studio

16 MAY

KotoKottoN – An evening of traditional Japanese strings This koto ensemble from NUS uses 13-stringed koto and the 17-stringed bass koto to play a variety of music ranging from traditional pieces to contemporary arrangements.

22 MAY 2016

17 MAY

Kuruma Ningyo Puppet Theatre

by Koryu Nishikawa Troupe Watch a dynamic story unfold as master puppeteers operate their ningyo (puppets) while sitting on a rokuro kuruma.

19 MAY 2

DAYS

Comic Nights by Anesama Kings This musical stand-up comedy uses classical instruments such as shimasen and balalaika to perform old Japanese ballads, short songs with old-style Japanese poems and more. 祭

祭

祭

祭

祭

祭

祭

20 MAY 祭

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SUPER JAPAN MATSURI by WAttention

SONGS OF THE RYUKYU ISLANDS Unaigumi is a four-piece ladies folk group that perform heartfelt traditional Okinawan folk songs and uplifting shima uta (島歌, new folk songs) using sanshin (三線, three string) while dressed in traditional Okinawan wear. Their name is inspired by the Okinawan dialect word unai (うない, sister) and gumi (ぐみ, group).

Melodic despite their simplicity, the songs are reminiscent of Studio Ghibli movie soundtracks. The songs often carry anti-war sentiments and other positive social sentiments – usually revolving around hope and peace. The group recently collaborated with Ryuichi Sakamoto and toured the US and Europe, and performed at last year’s Fuji Rock Festival.

Price: $35* Time: 5pm

Duration: 1hr 30mins (No intermission) Location: Esplanade Recital Studio

DAYS

A night of exciting games and delicious food await you at this outdoor traditional Japanese summer festival.

21 MAY

Arpeggione Quartet Join this youthful Singaporean group for an evening of familiar tunes from anime feature films such as Studio Ghibli (Japan), composed by Joe Hisaishi.

22 MAY

Hungry in Japan

by Eka Wong

Go hungry for Japan in this enlightening talk that sheds light on Japanese cuisine, regional specialities and variations.

Supa-Ongaku: Japanese Anime and Games

by Philharmonic Youth Winds Look forward to an afternoon of enchanting music from Pokémon, Galaxy 999, Studio Ghibli and more.

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GO! TEAM

JAPAN From the physical to the mental and spiritual, here are some of Japan’s most famous and popular sports and how you can enjoy them.

Thought the Japanese are all quiet and tame? The next time you visit, make your way down to a live sports venue or try out a traditional martial arts and you’ll get to see another face of Japan.

With the upcoming 2020 Olympic Games, sporting excellence is in the limelight and Japanese teams are aiming to claim top spot in fields that they are already worldlevel in, such as baseball, soccer and table-tennis — just to name a few. Here is a run through of some of the sports closest to the hearts of the Japanese.

(C)J.LEAGUE PHOTOS

Soccer Japan’s male soccer team, also known as the Samurai Blue, have been regular fixtures at the World Cup stage since 1998. Women’s soccer is also enjoying a boom following the women’s national soccer team’s 2011 World Cup victory – where they beat soccer superpower USA to clinch the trophy. Soccer fans in Singapore will be familiar with Albirex Niigata, which belongs to Division One of the professional J-League. Catch a J-League match from March to early December. Tickets range from ¥2,000 to ¥7,000 and can be bought on the match day itself.

Venue and schedules vary according to team, for more details visit www.jleague.jp/ (Japanese)

Baseball Along with soccer, this is one of the most popular sports in Japan – in fact, it is so deeply rooted in the local sporting culture that, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization, many baseball fans in Japan are surprised that the Americans also consider it their national sport! Baseball was first introduced in 1872 by an American professor who taught English in Tokyo.

Now, there are – broadly speaking – two types of baseball in Japan: high school baseball and professional league baseball. The highest playing field for the former is the Hanshin Koshien Stadium, located in Hyogo Prefecture in West Japan. The “Summer Koshien” is one of the most eagerly anticipated matches for baseball fans throughout the nation as they root for their local school teams.

The professional league is known as Nippon Professional Baseball, and the season lasts eight months starting from April and leading up to a championship held in October, the Nippon Series. On the world stage, Japan’s national team won the World Baseball Classic twice.

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High School Baseball

Professional Baseball

For information on the tournament and Hanshin Koshien Stadium visit www.nhk.or.jp/koushien/ (Japanese)

Venue and schedules vary according to team, for more details visit npb.jp/eng/

Go Team! JAPAN 日本人の誇り

Sumo Wrestling Harking back 1,500 years ago, sumo first began as part of a religious ritual performed at Shinto shrines. It was then introduced into the ceremonies of the Imperial Court during the Nara Period (8 th century) and developed from a no-holdsbarred mix of boxing and wrestling to a more technique-based form with rules.

Now, there are 70 winning techniques, or kimarite, that a rikishi (力士, sumo wrestler) can use to force his opponent out of the wrestling ring or off balance.

There are six Grand Tournaments held a year, each lasting 15 days: three in Tokyo, and one each in Osaka, Nagoya and Kyushu Prefectures.

Venue and schedules vary according to tournament, for more details visit www.sumo.or.jp/en/

Rugby Japan is currently undergoing a rugby craze, with children suddenly taking up interest in the sport after the national team, the Brave Blossoms, pulled off a spectacular victory against rugby superpower South Africa in what is University rugby superpowers Waseda University going down in Rugby World Cup history and Keio University in their annual face-off. as the “biggest shock win”. That said, Japan has always been a formidable rugby force in Asia and has participated in every Rugby World Cup since it began in 1987.

With Japan slated to host the global competition in 2019, this is definitely one hot sport to watch out for. Rugby was first introduced to Keio University students in 1899 by an English professor. Catch the professional league teams and university teams face off in the All-Japan Rugby Football Championship that takes place at the end of the rugby season around February.

Venue and schedules vary according to tournament, for more details visit jrfu.org/jrfu/index.php

Kendo Kendo, or the Way of the Sword, evolved from samurai swordsmanship and developed into its current form during the long period of peace during the Edo era when real swords were replaced by wooden ones for practice, and subsequently shinai (竹刀, bamboo swords) and bogu (防具, protective armour) were developed to allow for safe sparring.

After the Second World War in 1946, the practice of kendo was suspended by the occupying Allied Forces, but this ban was lifted in 1952 and the All Japan Kendo Federation was established. There is a special police kendo division for officers whose job is to practice competitive kendo and win kendo tournaments, such as the All Japan Kendo Championship.

All Japan Kendo Championship | 3 Nov ‘16 Nippon Budokan www.kendo-fik.org/english-page/ english-top-page.html

Kyudo

The Way of the Bow is a modern Japanese martial art that evolved from kyūjutsu (弓術, Art of Archery) used by the samurai class in feudal Japan. Its roots lie in a Shinto religious ritual from over 2,000 years ago. Unlike western archery, the movements are slow, graceful and deliberate – and in fact, quite ritualistic. Most people who practice kyūdo see it as an art and not a sport, where the form and spiritual state is more important than the actual hitting of the target. In competitions, scores are based on how many arrows hit the target, not on their proximity to the target center.

All Japan Kyudo Championships | 2-3 May ‘16 | Miyakomesse, Kyoto kyudo.jp/contents/code/english WAttention Singapore

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Go Team! JAPAN 日本人の誇り

Karate This developed in Okinawa Prefecture from the indigenous martial arts of the Ryukyu Islands (the prefecture’s former name) and has its roots in Chinese martial arts. It was introduced to mainland Japan in the early 20 th century. Techniques consist mainly of strikes using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open hand techniques.

Karate was considered for the 2020 Olympics but did not gather sufficient votes.

National Championship Tournament (Individual) | 25 Sep ’16 | Makuhari Messe jka.or.jp/en/news/calendar.html

Aikido This modern Japanese martial art was developed by martial arts practitioner Ueshiba Morihei in 1922 as a way to allow practitioners to defend themselves while – unlike other forms of self-defense – causing no harm to their attacker. The literal translation of the name is the Way of Combining Spirit, and refers to the technique of deflecting and redirecting an attacker’s movements with minimal effort. Now, several schools of aikido have developed and some are competitive – while the traditional school believes that the philosophy of aikido does not lend itself to competitions. In the words of the founding father Ueshiba, “Aikido is not about defeating one’s enemy. It is the way to unite human beings and guide the world towards harmony.”

Experience Aikido at Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, where Ueshiba Morihei was born www.tb-kumano.jp/en/aikido/experience/ Image credit: Ignat Gorazd, Flickr

Fun Sports Bars To Check Out Round 1 With branches all over Japan, this is a popular hangout for groups of friends and families, offering a wide variety of sports and activities.

Pick from table tennis or golf, depending on the branch, and enjoy a few rounds till late without worrying about closing time at this integrated sports entertainment zone. www.round1.co.jp/

GOLF ‘n’ BAR GRIP

Shibuya EST This is another integrated sports complex for night owls. Offering indoor entertainment such as bowling, darts and table tennis, exchange shots with your friends before downing a few drinks at the table tennis café. www.shibuyaest.co.jp/

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WAttention Singapore

So you’ve heard of integrated resorts, now check out these integrated sports entertainment complexes where you can try your hand at table tennis, bowling or baseball batting – pretty much round the clock!

The first golf bar of its kind, here you can practice your golf swing at simulation golf booths. Buy a drink and book a booth equipment is provided for free. Who says one can’t drink and drive? www.golfbar.jp/

Go Team! JAPAN 日本人の誇り

Table Tennis Japan is undoubtedly a table tennis powerhouse and proving to be a growing threat to world champion China. The women’s team clinched silver in the 2012 Olympics, and the men’s and women’s team met China in the 2016 World Team Table Tennis Championships held in Kuala Lumpur in March. The Japanese introduced the foam rubber paddle which made the game faster and upped the ante in terms of spinning the ball as a technique. While Japan won the world competition in the 1960s, China took the lead and never gave it back. On a more social level, table tennis is a common recreation at hot spring hotels, so that’s one venue to try this sport with the locals!

Japan Open Super Series | 15-19 Jun ’16 | Kobe Sports Park www.jtta.or.jp/taikai_nittei.html (Japanese)

Starting at the turn of the 20th century, people living in the mountainous regions of Japan have been using skis to move around. Eventually Japan would become famous for her beautiful mountain peaks covered in soft powder snow, especially in Niseko, Hokkaido. A popular spot for skiing and snowboarding amongst locals and tourists, there over 500 ski resorts around the country.

Winter Asian Games 2017 | Feb ’17 sapporo2017.org/en/

Judo Image credit: Tony Tseng, Flickr

This is the first Japanese martial art to become an Olympic sport.

Meaning “the gentle way”, it was founded by Japanese educator and sportsman Kano Jigoro in 1882, who based it on the art of jujutsu. He started his school, Kodokan, at a small temple in Tokyo, which has since grown into the headquarters of the worldwide Judo community. Basic techniques used in Judo are throwing, grappling, striking, and the art of breaking one’s fall. The school co-sponsors the All Japan Judo Championships held every April.

Ski

MIND SPORTS

Kodokan Judo Institute kodokanjudoinstitute.org/en/

Shogi Known as Japanese chess, shogi literally means “general’s board game” and developed to its present form around the 16th century. It is similar to chess but slightly more complete because captured pieces can be returned to the board as one’s own. Every year, the Japanese national broadcasting station, NHK, sponsors and airs the NHK Cup TV Shogi Tournament which runs for a year from April to March the following year.

Igo Referred to as “go” internationally, this two-player board game originated in China over 2,500 years ago and took the current form in Japan in the 15th century. The aim is to surround more territory than the opponent and involves significant strategizing despite the simple rules of the game. Territory on the board is gained by surrounding an opposing stone or a group of stones.

The game is played until neither player wishes to make another move.

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Go Team! JAPAN 日本人の誇り

Marathon

Hot Air Balloon The Japanese started to fly hot air balloons in 1877, using them mainly for military purposes. The first commercial hot air balloon was named the Icarus 5 and was flown in Hokkaido in 1969. Four years later, the Japan Hot Air Balloon Federation was inaugurated.

Since then hot air balloon competitions has grown into a huge movement seeing over 800,000 visitors, competitors and crew every year.

22nd FAI World Hot Air Balloon Championship 28 Oct - 6 Nov ‘16 | sibf.jp

Running is a big part of Japanese culture with marathoners like “Citizen Runner” Yuki Kawauchi being hailed as national heroes, similar to NBA’s Michael Jordon. Every year, Japanese runners post some of the world’s fastest marathon times. Themed runs such as the Water Run, One Piece Run and Minions Run are also popular amongst runners.

Saga Sakura Marathon | 19 Mar ’17 sagasakura-marathon.jp

Cycling Japan’s sprawling, alternating flat and mountainous landscape makes it ideal cycling country.

Japanese citizens have been cycling and producing bicycles since the 1880s. It is no surprise that competitive road and mountain biking eventually would become so popular.

Competitive road cycling is so popular in Japan that there is even a manga and anime series called Yowamushi Pedal based on it.

AD_Shimano_vol32.pdf 1 11/4/2016

Cycling Shimanami | 30 Oct ’16 Ehime cycling-shimanami.jp/english/ 4:15:11 PM

Saga Sakura Marathon 2016

Golf Originally introduced to Japan by a British tea trader in 1901, golf was originally a sport for the upper echelons of society. Extremely popular in the 70s and 80s, interest in golf would dip in the 90s before eventually returning as an everyman’s game by the early 2000s. The sport also started to get increasingly popular with Japanese women in 2007.

JGT Championship Mori Building Cup Shishido Hills 2 Jun ’16 | Ibaraki | jgto.org

Hit a Home Run at

Singapore’s 1st

Automated Indoor Baseball & Softball Batting Cage

200 Pandan Gardens #01/02/03/04 | 6635-6315 Mon-Thu 1pm - 11pm Fri 1pm - 1am Sat 9am - 3am Sun 9am - 12am

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Spectacular nature and culture just 2 hours away from Tokyo!

Hokuto Yamanashi Prefecture

Shinjuku

Shinjuku – Hokutoshi 2 hours by Chuo Main Line from Shinjuku (Get o at Kobuchizawa Station)

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雄 大 な 自 然 に 出 会 う

東 京 か ら わ ず か ２ 時 間 ！

東沢大橋 HIGASHIZAWA OHASHI

Nature blessed by location

High mountains, deep culture

As one of the world’s biggest cities, Tokyo has everything one could wish from an ultimate urban experience. However, it lacks the mountains, forests, crystal clear rivers, fresh air and local ingredients one could expect from a nature paradise like Hokkaido.

Hokuto has been a popular weekend retreat for Tokyoites since the eighties, but enclosed by the Yatsugatake mountain range in the north and Mt. Fuji in the south, Hokuto is still waiting to be discovered by foreign tourists. WAttention spent the weekend and discovered that Hokuto is not only rich in nature, but also in traditional and modern culture.

A trip to Hokkaido is a big undertaking if you are living in Tokyo, not to mention for visitors with only a limited amount of time. Visiting Hokuto – a city in Yamanashi prefecture with natural assets second to none – is much more convenient as it can be reached from Shinjuku by train in only 2 hours!

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Hokuto Nature

From a panoramic mountain range view to a valley hidden in the sacred woods

サンメドウズ清里

SUN MEADOWS KIYOSATO Summer Season Take a 10-minute “air stroll” with the Panorama Lift and enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji from Kiyosato Terrace, where you can enjoy the scenery while relaxing on a comfortable sofa at 1,900m altitude. While you are at it, how about a Sky Soft, a yummy local dessert that consists of a bread stick and soft ice-cream.

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Winter Season Has skiing with Mt. Fuji in the backdrop always been your dream? With a total of 10 different courses, Sun Meadows is a great destination for first timers yet offers enough challenge to be interesting for the more seasoned skier. Children can have a blast by sliding down the hill on sleds!

Hours: 9am – 5pm (summer) 8am – 5pm (winter) Access: 5 minutes by Kiyosato Picnic bus or taxi from Kiyosato Station.

URL: http://snow.gnavi.co.jp/guide/htm/r0018ens.htm

尾白川渓谷

OJIRAGAWA VALLEY A Mystic Hike Ojiragawa River’s clear water originates from Mt. Koma, a sacred mountain where, according to legends, a god with the appearance of a white horse used to reside. Literally translated as "white tail river", the Ojiragawa River takes its name from this myth, with the stream symbolizing the horse’s tail.

With the 270 year old mystic Komagatake Shrine at the start-point, a hiking course of 4 hours with gorgeous waterfalls and cliffs along the way can be enjoyed. Jinja Waterfall that falls in three layers is a noteworthy spot that becomes all the more photogenic when covered in golden foliage during autumn.

Access: 30 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station.

URL: www.city.hokuto.yamanashi.jp/ genre/detail/1835/ ( Japanese)

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Hokuto Culture

Traditional

北杜市の伝統文化

Cultivated by the stream of Ojiragawa River With Ojiragawa River’s water — a natural resource that has been treasured for centuries – as the main reason for its cultivation, the Hakushu area boasts a long history and rich culture to indulge in. Explore Hakushu’s street of latticed houses with slated roof tiles and enjoy Hokuto’s more traditional side.

七賢

Shichiken Shichiken is a Japanese sake brewery with over 300 years of history. In 1880, Emperor Meiji stayed at the brewery during his journey through Yamanashi, Mie and Kyoto. The rooms designed especially for his visit have been left completely intact and are open to the public. The brewery itself also welcomes visitors who wish to observe the process of sake making and, of course, sake tasting can be enjoyed at the brewery’s shop.

Hours: 9am – 5pm Access: 15 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station or Hinoharu Station.

URL: www.sake-shichiken.co.jp/eng_chn_kor.html

くらかふぇ糀 s

臺眠（ダイミン）

Koji’z

Daimin

Koji’z, a small cafe located inside Shichiken’s main building, uses koji to create malt smoothies, a new type of smoothie. They come in flavours of local fruits such as peach and blueberry, resulting in a healthy yet sweet (alcohol-free) dessert drink.

Daimin is a Japanese restaurant run by Shichiken. Many of the fresh fish, meat and vegetables from the region are prepared with sake. The salmon pictured below, for example, is coated in a sauce made from koji, which is malt left over from the sake.

Hours: 9am – 5pm Access: 15 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station or Hinoharu Station.

URL: www.sake-shichiken.co.jp/eng_chn_kor.html

金精軒

Kinseiken Shingenmochi (信玄 ) is a sweet ricecake that has been a staple product of confectionery manufacturer Kinseiken for over a hundred years. However, it was not until 2013 that the people at Kinseiken had a stroke of genius and developed the big hit product Mizu-shingenmochi, a water drop shaped dessert only possible with water as clear as that of Ojiragawa River.

(Plain shingenmochi can be purchased throughout the year, but the Mizu-shingenmochi is only available during the weekends from June to September and can only be eaten directly at the shop.)

Hours: 9am – 6pm (Closed on Wednesdays) Access: 15 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station or Hinoharu Station.

URL: http://kinseiken.co.jp/okashi/wagashi/629 ( Japanese) 20

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Hours: 11.30am – 3pm (lunch), 5pm – 8.30pm (dinner) Closed on Tuesdays.

Access: 15 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station or Hinoharu Station.

URL: www.sake-shichiken. co.jp/gourmet.html ( Japanese)

Modern

北杜市のモダンな文化

A blend of pop culture and stunning nature

Kobuchizawa Art Village Resort & Spa The presence of Kobuchizawa Art Village Resort & Spa makes Hokuto city feel trendy and young, which few other Japanese provincial cities can claim.

Having avant-garde modern architecture and a museum dedicated to works of New York pop artist Keith Haring not in Tokyo but here surrounded by a stunning mountain range and a starlit sky is a piece of art itself.

Luxury Hotel Hotel Keyforest

ホテルキーフォレスト

This brand new boutique hotel is gorgeous both inside and out.

The luxurious rooms are all unique, each of them representing a natural element: sky, wind, sunlight, boscage, earth and water.

Listen to the symphony of the birds from your terrace in the morning and be mesmerized by a view of the mountains from the rooftop, where you can also enjoy the sparkling stars at night.

VS

Access: 5 minutes by Yatsugatake Kogen Resort bus or taxi from Kobuchizawa Station.

URL: www.artkeith.com/keyforest-jp/

Classical Lodge

ロッジアトリエ北杜

Lodge Atelier Hokuto

With the facade of a European chalet and some tatamimat rooms inside, this 40-year old lodge is an interesting encounter between European and Japanese style. It feels like home away from home. Its best asset is the private hot spring, where you can enjoy as a couple or with the whole family!

Access: 5 minutes by Yatsugatake Kogen Resort bus or taxi from Kobuchizawa Station.

URL: www.artkeith.com/stay/

Indoor

中村キース・へリング美術館

Nakamura Keith Haring Collection

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This private museum is dedicated to the works of eighties New York pop artist Keith Haring. There is something extremely genuine and universal that can be felt through his works that feature humans that are not of a certain race yet colourful and diverse. Even today, Haring’s works manage to catch people’s hearts regardless of their ethnic background.

Hours: 9am – 5pm Access: 5 minutes by Yatsugatake Kogen Resort bus or taxi from Kobuchizawa Station.

URL: www.nakamura-haring.com/english/index.html

Outdoor

カナディアンキャンプ乗馬クラブ

Canadian Camp Riding Club

After learning some basic skills of horseback riding at the practice area, head out to Hokuto’s forest paths for a mesmerizing ride on top of your new best buddy. Centuries back, samurai galloped on their horses just like you on these very same trails.

Hours: 9am – 6pm (From April to October) Access: 5 minutes by Yatsugatake Kogen Resort bus or taxi from Kobuchizawa Station.

URL: www.artkeith.com/riding WAttention Singapore

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Lifestyle Report

Depato Deluxe Ultimate Shopping Therapy @ Isetan Shinjuku Store

Bringing Japan's "depato" or department store culture to new heights is the grand old dame of Isetan Shinjuku Store. In fact, every item sold here has been carefully selected - or rather, curated - to deliver a fashion statement. Welcome to “Fashion Museum” that is Isetan Shinjuku Store.

Department Store Vs Shopping Mall To understand what a “depato” is, it is important to know the difference between a department store and a shopping mall. First of all, a mall is made up of various retail tenants while a department store selects what products and brands to sell based on a unified concept and identity. Which means that this selection determines its character, image and appeal, mainly by staying ahead of the fashion curve, or even setting the trend.

Isetan Shinjuku Store counts amongst its customer base trendsetters, fashionistas and artistes who have a discerning eye for design and beauty, as well as many others who have a taste for the finer things in life. As a landmark in the major shopping district of Shinjuku where all the heavyweight department stores are gathered, Isetan Shinjuku Store aims to become “The World’s Greatest Fashion Museum”. With an emphasis on fashion in all senses and genres, Isetan Shinjuku Store “curates” brands from Japan and worldwide based not just on their fame, but on the actual quality, creativity and trendsetting value of the product.

These carefully curated products are then displayed in elaborate showcases designed to bring out their appeal and character.

For example, promotional spaces in the form of a “park” are set up eye-catchingly right in the middle of each floor, displaying brands and limited edition items that deserve attention. Or, exhibitions based on a unique theme are held to give a sense that

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there’s always something new and happening in this museum.

And so Isetan Shinjuku Store is more than just a big scale shop where one can buy a wide selection of goods. Just browsing through the store is a feast for the eyes and a process of discovery of interesting things and happenings to gain inspiration from. It is a space where the joy and satisfaction of living a life less ordinary can be seen and felt.

Promotional Space “Park”

Isetan Shinjuku Store Going The Extra Mile For Each Customer There’s almost always a queue of customers waiting for Isetan Shinjuku Store to open in the morning, and it’s not hard to understand why. There’s no better way to experience what it means for the customer to be king (or queen) than to be greeted politely with a reverential bow by rows of staff as you approach their section. This tradition stems from the depato culture that strives to provide the most conducive shopping environment for customers. Tourists from overseas are often pleasantly surprised and impressed by the high level of customer service from sales and department staff, especially with the apt advice gently offered with a warm smile.

A man looking for a suitable fashion piece as a present for his wife back home gets assistance from a retail staff who helps to try it on for size; informed suggestions are made by staff after listening to the concerns of a customer torn over which item to get.

Such instances of service from the heart are too many to count.

This ability to anticipate needs before they are expressed is driven by a constant mindfulness of what customers want and need, and an unconditional desire to delight them. This is how service that exceeds expectations is achieved.

When gifts that are intricately wrapped without even a millimeter gap are handed over to the customer with a thank you greeting, what the customer receives is more than just a product purchased. It is also the pleasure that comes with shopping at a depato. *Wrapping varies based on product and department.

From the kitchen to the living room, from kids to madames From the 2nd Floor Basement to the 7th Floor and rooftop garden, the separate Men’s Store has everything to groom a gentleman from head to toe. In the Main Store, everything from clothes to food and livingware to support every aspect of life is available - be it a gift of jewelry for your mother, to a soft toy for your newly born nephew, or a cool smartphone accessory for your boyfriend, kitchen goods for a culinary-gifted friend and of course a designer’s dress for yourself. Moreover, you can be assured that all the goods available have been selected by the discerning eyes of an Isetan buyer.

Bedding Section Japanese Tableware Section

Services for Overseas Tourists Foreign Customer Service In addition to the tax rebate preparation procedures with language services available for English, Chinese and Korean speakers, various other services are available here:

1 Attendants Shopping English, Chinese or Korean-speaking staff will accompany your shopping trip to provide assistance where required. Reservations advised.

2 Guest Card Customers who possess an Isetan Mitsukoshi Group card from international branches can obtain a Guest Card to enjoy a 5% discount by showing their overseas card.

4 Free Wi-Fi Area Shop smart with the help of your smartphone or tablet.

5 Hotel Delivery Service Send your purchases from Isetan to your hotel for free to enjoy a hands-free evening of dining or touring (limited to participating hotels).

*Payment only accepted by cash or UnionPay.

3 Foreign Exchange Machine Twelve types of currencies can be changed here (from the US dollar, Euro, Yuan, Taiwan dollar, Korean won and Singapore dollar, etc.), with services in four languages.

6 Airport Delivery Get your goods sent direct to the airport. This charged service saves the hassle of carrying heavy luggage for the rest of your trip.

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Try on a new look.

ANNA SUI, Flower Print Dress 57,420 yen

Beauty and Food, What Everyone Always Wants Cool Picks of Isetan Shinjuku Ladies Fashion (1F-4F)

Japanese Brand Tour Put together specially for foreign visitors, this tour introduces the Japanese designers of the moment and is a must for those interested in fashion trends. Find out more about brands gaining attention overseas such as TOGA, sacai and more.

Details: Every Thursday, 11am and 4pm 3 people per session. Tour lasts 40-50min. *This tour only introduces ladies’ brands.

To apply, visit: http://goo.gl/j4WS3W

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EK THONGPRASERT, Necklace 49,680 yen

The most trend-setting collection

Bags and accessories are available on the 1F, while the 2F to 4F are curated with themes such as “trend”, “mode” and “luxury” in mind. You can be sure to fi nd the latest trendsetting fashion items available here. Shopping here is a truly sensual experience as room fragrances add another dimension to the color scheme and mood. Every corner of the floor is framed like a stylish display, with the latest fashion ideas for the picking. Sales staff with detailed product knowledge are here to help you fi nd the perfect item for your needs.

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ANNA SUI, Embroidered Dress 63,720 yen *available from mid-December

CLYDE, Hat 46,440 yen LUGHA, Coat 248,400 yen JOHNLAWRENCESULLIVAN, Pants 27,000 yen SAKIAS, Boots 66,960 yen

Isetan Shinjuku Store

Food Floor (B1F)

A treasure chest of sweet treats and delicacies

Those in tune with Japanese culture will know of the term “depachika”, which means “the basement of the department store” where the food, fresh produce, confectionery and beverages such as tea to sake can be found. With around 160 retail counters to choose from, one is truly spoilt for choice in this gourmet paradise. Pick from traditional Japanese souvenirs from legendary makers, or buy some picture perfect fresh fruits or cakes as an afternoon snack.

Nakashima Jyouzou, Kozaemon Junmai Daiginjyo 4,500 yen Savor the splendid aroma of this sake, an Isetan Mitsukoshi Group limited item.

Suzukake, Ichigo Daifuku 324 yen (1 piece) Taste the traditional flavor of this more than 90-year-old confectionery.

(Available only until mid-April 2016.)

Kaisekiryori-Aoyama, Jukkokumai Bento 1,080 yen An elegant combination of tempura and grilled salmon, with ten grain rice.

Beauty Apothecary (B2F)

Beauty from the inside out This floor has the health and beauty of women in mind. There are eight zones here, such as for the face, to body and inner support. Find cosmetic products as well as beauty foods, aroma, supplements, etc. to ensure your body is beautiful from the inside out. Natural ingredients are used in the line-up here. Sample natural wine, vegetable-based sweets and more at the deli corner and café.

KOTOSHINA, KS Body Butter SGT 8,640 yen (180ml) This body butter will moisturize your skin with the fragrance of green tea.

YON-KA, Lotion YON-KA 5,724 yen (200ml) Freshen up with this brand’s bestselling mist lotion containing five essential oils.

Sunfood Super Foods, Organic superfoods smoothie mix 4,104 yen (227g) The breakfast of champions made simple with this all-natural protein rich smoothie.

Isetan Shinjuku Store Hours: 10:30am-8pm Address: Shinjuku 3-14-1, Shinjuku Access: 1-min walk from Tokyo Metro ShinjukuSanchome Station URL: http://www.isetan.co.jp/int

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FIELDS Research Institute

Let’s Talk Subculture Explore the fascinating world of Japan’s subcultures with insights from the inside.

VOL.07

Takadanobaba Game Center Mikado: Tokyo’s Empire of Retro Video Games Insert coin to relive childhood Due to its unassuming façade, Mikado could easily go unnoticed by even a seasoned gamer. This video game arcade, or ge-sen (an abbreviation of game center) in Japanese, is located not in the otaku heaven of Akihabara, but tucked away on a small street in Takadanobaba, a student quarter in Shinjuku Ward along the Yamanote Line. Tourists are unlikely to visit the area without a special reason, but for gamers there is plenty of reason as Mikado will be like a tour through their childhood.

It is not just the nostalgia that brings gamers to Mikado. For many now-forgotten games, Mikado is the only place where competitive players can still find a good opponent, which is why so many players from all over the world make their pilgrimage to this holy ground of vintage video games. The special events and tournaments held on a daily basis keep things active, and make this recreation of an old-style video game arcade one that not only has the games of the good old days, but also captures the lively energy and tension that was present in video game arcades back then.

“My next dream is to develop an original game for Mikado. By making it only playable here, it could become a new reason for people to visit.”

During the eighties and nineties, video game arcades were stuff of the future, but with the advent of advanced home consoles they have become a phenomenon of the past. Outside of Japan, they are pretty much extinct and even the ge-sen here are becoming an endangered species. The few major ones that are left owe their existence not to fighting and shooting games, but to the UFO catchers and purikura booths that attract families and couples.

“When I was young, video game arcades were dark, smoky halls where young guys would hang out after school to play the newest video games. Now, games are played on smartphone devices and arcades have become family entertainment” says Mikado owner

Minoru Ikeda with a sad smile on his face.

A quick look around at the two-story Mikado, which probably has the most CRT screens put together in one space in Tokyo, makes it easy to understand that it is a recreation of the video game arcades Ikeda remembers from his childhood. From SEGA’s 1985 classic shooting game Space Harrier to Capcom’s legendary Street Fighter II that still has a following more than 20 years after its release, Mikado is like a museum that showcases the golden days of Japanese video games. With a total of more than 200 machines, even games that were quickly forgotten after their original release finally get their well-deserved lot here at Mikado.

Ikeda’s plan would indeed make for an interesting type of exclusivity. Ideas like this add a layer of personality to Mikado that make it a very special place. A visit will make you recall the fun and adrenaline rush of jostling elbows with your opponent seated next to you, rather than some faceless online game user on some other part of the planet.

Find out other fascinating aspects of subculture in this special “Let’s Talk Subculture” series online at www.wattention.com.

Game Center Takadanobaba Mikado

This article was written with the assistance of Fields Research Institute, which conducts research in entertainment.

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Address: Takadanobaba 4-5-10, Shinjuku, Tokyo Access: 1-min walk from Takadanobaba Station (JR Yamanote Line, Tozai Line, Seibu Shinjuku Line Hours: 10am – 12am URL: http://mi-ka-do.net/baba/ (Japanese)

VOL.11 | SITE-SEEING |

EXPLORE JAPAN’S PREFECTURE

Writer’s profile: Masuya Sazuka – Wanting to engage local tourism, she joined the Shima City Tourist Association. Dressed up as Shima City’s mascot during the Mie Prefecture Fair held in Taiwan in March this year.

SHIMA CITY MIE PRECTURE

Ama diving into the sea

Grilling the freshly caught seafood

Ama's fresh catch of the day

Ise-ebi Festival

Mugisaki Lighthouse

Himawari no yu

SHIMA – THE PEARL OF JAPAN Home to Japan’s most sacred shrines, the Ise

stories of their diving experiences

Shrines (伊勢神宮, Ise Jingu), Mie Prefecture

To thank the sea gods, Shima City holds an

(三重県) is situated in the centre of Honshu

annual Ise-ebi Festival (伊勢えび祭) to pray for

Kansai-Airport Limousine Bus

and boasts a complex geographical

safety at sea and good catch for the year

+ Kintetsu-Limited Express

coastline. The eastern coastline is

every 1st Saturday of June. This includes a

designated as the Ise-Shima National Park.

parade featuring a lobster mikoshi (神輿 ,

Within its borders lies Shima City (志摩市),

portable Shinto shrine) and fireworks to end

which covers the southern half of Shima

one of the grandest events of the year

Hanto (志摩半島 , Shima Peninsula). Northeast

Mugisaki Lighthouse (麦埼灯台), selected as

of the city, nutrient-rich waters and

one of the top 100 soundscapes in Japan, is

abundance in plankton have made Matoya

also a must-go from spring to autumn

Bay (的矢湾) an ideal oyster cultivation area.

After a long day of exploring Shima City,

Towards the south, Ago Bay (英虞湾) is

head to Shima Spain Village (志摩スペイン村),

.

.

Kansai International Airport

3hr 32mins ¥5,130 (approx. $63.62) Chubu Centrair International Airport

a theme park built to replicate a Spanish

production of cultured pearls. Shima City is

townscape. Take a dip in the famous

famous for fresh seafood such as oysters,

Himawari no yu (ひまわりの湯 , Bath of

Ise-ebi (伊勢海老 , Japanese spiny lobster) and

Sunflowers) found in the park and watch the

abalone. To try these delicacies, make an

sunset disappear into the horizon while

appointment at Satoumi-an (さとうみ庵), where

soaking in spring waters that are known to

the food is prepared by professional Ama

leave skin feeling silky smooth

2hr 43mins ¥4,810 (approx. $59.64)

Mie Prefecture 三重県 Shima City 志摩市

Narita Airport 成田空港

.

(海女 , women divers), who are happy to share * Photos are provided by Shima City Tourism Association www.kanko-shima.com/en/index.html

Ugata Station

Meitetsu Rail + Kintetsu Rail

.

referred to as “Bay of Pearls” for its

Ugata Station

Kansai International Airport 関西国際空港

Chubu Centrair International Airport 中部国際空港

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JAPAN

TRAVEL

& Beyond

Presented by VOL.2 | E ARLY SUMMER GUIDE |

PERFECT SEASONAL MOMENTS Lake Kagurame

Kyushu

Surrounded by the Tsurumi Mountains, the lake sees over 1,500 delicate iris blooms at the peak of summer. Over 80 different species of irises create a breathtaking purple carpet that go around the lake. Legend has it that a female dancer of Tsurumi Shrine lived near the lake in the Heian period.

九州 Japan’s third largest island located southwest of the main island offers many relaxing sights filled with natural beauty.

Mikaeri Waterfall

(c) 佐賀県観光連盟

From sweet sakura in spring to rustic reds in autumn, Mikaeri-no-taki, one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Waterfalls, is especially famous for the annual Hydrangea Festival held in June.

There are over 40,000 flowers of 40 different varieties in blue, pink and purple that bloom around the falls.

Kusasenri This grassy expanse lies in the remains of a huge crater and features the panoramic view of the five peaks of Aso. While you are here, take a horseback ride, have a picnic, see some cattle or visit the Aso Volcano Museum just across the road.

North Central 北中部 Tōshōgū This lavish shrine complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Explore more than a dozen buildings decorated with countless wood carvings and large amounts of gold leaf.

North Central Japan is made up of the Chubu, Tohoku and Kanto region and is filled with must-see cultural and historical landmarks.

Aizu Wakamatsu River Dining Oze Iwakura Lily Garden One of the largest lily gardens in the Kanto region, it sees three million lilies of 50 different varieties blooming over seven hectares of land between midJuly to August. You can stroll through the lilies on foot or take in the view from above by riding on the lift.

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This riverside dining area by the flowing waters of the Yugawa River has been a popular spot since the Edo times. The dining platforms are built next to or over bodies of water so you can enjoy a cool breeze while you dine. Try having lunch in a yukata for the full experience.

NIPPON HERITAGE explorer

Presented by

VOL.4 | SITE-SEEING | NAR A PREFEC TURE |

NARA CITY

奈良市 奈良県

Visit the home of Japan’s most spiritual landmarks

燈花会 浮雲園地会場 , Tokae Lantern Festival, Ukigumoenchi

Located less than an hour away from Kyoto and Osaka in the Kansai region, is the picturesque Nara Prefecture. Established in 710 as Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to a large number of temples, shrines, temple towns and the largest amount of World Heritage Sites in Japan. This includes some of the country’s oldest and largest temples such as Tōdai-ji, Kōfukuji and Kasuga-taisha.

Apart from her shrines, Nara is also famous for her free roaming deer. Friendly deer are often found wandering amicably through the town, especially in Nara Park where visitors can purchase shika sembei ( 鹿煎餅 , deer biscuits) to feed them.

If you see a deer, try bowing to it, it just may bow back to you.

HOW TO GET THERE From Tokyo: 2h 15 min to Kyoto Station by JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line (Nozomi), and 35 min from Kintetsu Kyoto to Kintetsu Nara by Kintetsu Kyoto Line (limited express).

From Osaka: 35 min from Kintetsu Namba to Kintetsu Nara Station by Kintetsu Nara Line (rapid express).

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Audio SPOT

興福寺

Audio SPOT

Kōfukuji Temple

Home to the second tallest fivestorey pagoda and an Ashura (阿修羅 , Buddhist deity of war) statue designated as a National Treasure.

飛火野

Tobihino Hill

Located in Nara Park, which houses many famous historic sites, you will find many deer grazing along the spacious lawn.

春日大社

Audio SPOT

Kasuga Grand Shrine

Walk through the bright red 10m tall Chumon Gate to see the enshrined honden (本殿 , main hall) within.

HOW TO USE

SkyDesk Media Trek

SkyDesk Media Trek is a free voice guidance app provided by Fuji Xerox that uses the GPS position information of your smartphone to automatically play sightseeing audio guides when you’re near a guide point at a location of interest.

➡ <STEP 1> Select a [Book] from the Book Store.

➡ <STEP 2> Tap [Download] to start downloading. Tap [Open] and [Start Guide] to switch to voice guidance screen.

➡ <STEP 3> Voice guidance will automatically start when you are near an audio spot.

<STEP 4> [Book] is automatically saved in your downloads and you can listen to it anytime.

初夏

5 - 25 May 2016

TOMI

Early Summer Promotion

SUSHI

の お す す め

穴子にぎり御膳 Anago Nigiri Gozen

$

45

天然稚鮎の天ぷら Chiaya Tempura (Young Sweetfish)

Savour the best flavour the season has to offer At Tomi Sushi you can enjoy fresh summer sushi and sashimi delicacies such as Shiro Ebi and Anago imported fresh from Japan. Be sure to try our Anago Ippon Nigiri, available at a special price for a limited time only. Visit us for an authentic Japanese dining experience today.

Millenia Walk #02-12/13 9 Raffles Boulevard 6238-1123 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5.30pm 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Katong V #02-14/15/16 30 East Coast Road 6348-7897 11.30am - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm) 5.30pm 10.30pm (L.O. 10pm)

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$

穴子一本にぎり

Anago Ippon Nigiri

$

25 $20

白えび唐揚げ Shiro Ebi Karaage

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$

$

Novena Square (Velocity) #02-76/77 238 Thomson Road 6255-2355 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 5.30pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

www.tomisushi.asia Some of the product subject to changed or are not available due to seasonal or stock availability. All prices are subject to service charge & govermment tax.

9.80 Tomisushi Echigotei Cuppage Terrace 35 Cuppage Road 6333-4633 5pm - 12am (L.O. 11.30pm)

Discover the Quays of JAPANESE DINING C A B

シ ン ガ ポ ー ル で 日 本 を 味 わ う！

JA PA NESE FOOD

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Ramen Bar Suzuki 豚骨らーめん すず木

PROMOTION Happy Hour 6pm - 8pm

Mention “WAttention” For $4 Draft Beer (U.P.$5) Valid till end of May.

Pure White Tonkotsu Ramen .............. $12.90 Noukou Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen ..... $14.80 Dan Dan Tonkotsu Ramen ................... $14.90

Tease your senses with aromatic, authentic tonkotsu ramen Lead by chefs who have trained under a coveted Michelin-star restaurant, this ramen bar is one of the few places that serve traditional tonkotsu ramen in Singapore.

with pork bones that have been simmered for over 24 hours to produce a smooth, creamy, fragrant soup.

Plus, enjoy free servings of steamed rice, bean sprouts, potato salad, hard-boiled eggs or fresh Their classic Pure White Tonkotsu ramen broth is made cabbage while stocks last.

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WAttention Singapore

All prices are correct at time of print and do not include any taxes.

61 Circular Road | Mon-Thu 11am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 6pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm), Fri 11am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 6pm 10.30pm (L.O. 10pm), Sat 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 6pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm) Closed Sun & PH Ramen Bar Suzuki ramenbarsuzuki

Japanese Food Street: BOAT

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OmoteNashi Dining

GOSSO

QUAY AREA

焼き鳥ダイニング ごっそ

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention” & get

one FREE

Tsukune (chicken ball) Discover the flavour of the legendary Gosso Dama When eaten within the 40-second time frame, the famous Gosso Dama will melt in your mouth into creamy deliciousness. They offer a range of yakitori (grilled chicken sticks), such as sasami (さ さみ, chicken fillet), tsukune (つくね , minced chicken

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Maido

Japanese Charcoal Grill

Gosso Dama ................. $3.50

ball), salads, nabe (鍋 , hotpots) and more.

Their drink menu has a wide range of sake, including hard-to-get bottles such as Dassai and Denshu. Plus, it has a beautiful view and a cosy atmosphere.

64 Boat Quay | 6533-5152 | Mon-Sat 11.30am - 2.30pm, 6pm - 1am Closed Sun omotenashi.sg OmoteNashi Dining Gosso

本格炭焼串まいど

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention” & get

one FREE

A 5 Wagyu Kushi

Soon-to-be grilled A5 Wagyu Kushi

Unagi-Don (lunch only) .......... $17

Bite into savoury grilled delights This kushiyaki (串焼き, grilled stick foods) specialty restaurant offers over 30 varieties of charcoal grilled food including A5 wagyu, pork, seafood, cheese and more. Their chef hails from TripAdvisor’s number one restaurant in Tokyo and is able to turn various ingredients

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into lip-smacking sticks of kushi.

Another one of their most popular dishes is their Unagi Don that is available only during lunch.

Plus, the terrace has a beautiful view of Marina Bay, making it ideal for couples and families.

Pork Rib Kushi ...............$3.50 69A Boat Quay | 6532-0424 Mon-Sat 11.30am - 2.30pm, 6pm - 1am Closed Sun maido69.com/en/ Tsuiteru Sakaba Maido

Ramen Matsuri らーめん 祭り

Original Mazesoba .... $10.80 Torikoku Super Ramen

Spicy Ramen .............. $13.80

Discover the delicious flavour of dry ramen Hailing from Nagoya, this ramen store’s specialty is a dry ramen dish known as Mazesoba. It is served with spicy minced pork, soft boiled egg, seaweed and vegetables that is mixed together with the noodles before eating. It is also available for takeaway or at their sister restaurant, Kajiken

(#01-07, 1 Tras Link). Another signature dish is their Torikoku Super Ramen. It has a thick, rich broth, similar to a western potage soup and is served with a large, crunchy, fresh green leaf salad that is best enjoyed when immersed into the soup.

7 North Canal Road | 6533-0845 Mon-Sat 11.30am - 3pm, 5.30pm - 11pm (L.O. 10.30pm) Closed on Sun & PH ramenmatsuri.com Ramen Matsuri

WAttention Singapore

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Marutama Ramen らーめん まる玉

Only available at The Central

Aka Ramen ................... $16 Zenbu Nose Ramen .... $19 Katsuo Shoyu Ramen .... $15

Savour the unique taste of chicken paitan ramen The pioneer of creamy, chicken paitan soup in Singapore has been improving the flavour of their heartwarming ramen for the past 9 years.

They make the soup stock fresh daily, brewing for a few hours every morning without MSG or

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preservatives for the best taste. Try their mildlyspicy Aka ramen or their Zenbu Nose Ramen which is topped with meaty, homemade chashu, meltin-your-mouth braised pork belly and a perfectly boiled lava egg.

Ramen Keisuke Lobster King ロブスターキング

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The Central #03-90/91 Daily 11.30am - 10pm Liang Court Shopping Centre #02-01/02 177 River Valley Road | 6837-2480 | Mon-Sat 11.30am - 10pm, Sun 11am - 9.30pm marutama.com.sg

Yamakawa Super 山川スーパー

PROMOTION Show WAttention Singapore magazine &

Lobster broth Ramen (Clear soup) with Flavoured Egg ........................................$15.90

Enjoy 10% off

Lobster broth Ramen (Rich soup)................... $14.90

your total bill

Miso Lobster broth Ramen ....................................... $14.90

Only from Mon-Fri. Valid till end of May and not valid with other promotions.

Tuck into French-inspired lobster ramen

Fill your home with yummy Japanese snacks

The 10 th outlet launched by Ramen Keisuke, Singapore’s most established ramen brand, sees Chef Keisuke Takeda returning to his French roots. Chef Keisuke created this new concept store as a way to add more flavour to the local ramen scene. Using only premium French rock lobsters imported from France, the stock is a special blend of chicken broth and vegetables to create a unique, creamy and savoury flavour.

This supermarket stocks up a large selection of popular snacks from all over Japan. From chocolates and crackers to rice and condiments, there is something to suit everyone’s craving. Apart from the usual favourites, the store also brings in seasonal specials usually only sold in Japan such as Matcha KitKat and Pocky.

The Cannery #01-07, 3C River Valley Road | 6255-2928 Daily 6pm - 5am (L.O. 4.30am) Keisuke Tokyo SG

The Central #B1-28B, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street | 6534-9518 | Daily 11am - 10pm Yamakawa Super

■Ramen Keisuke LOBSTER KING ロゴ

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WAttention Singapore

Conveniently located at The Central, they often have fantastic promotions on J-Passport, so be sure to check for deals on a regular basis.

All prices are correct at time of print and do not include any taxes.

Japanese Food Street: CLARKE

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Meidi-ya

Supermarket

QUAY AREA

明治屋

EVENTS

Hokkaido Fair (May) Tanabata Fair ( July) Meidi-ya Tsubu Jams ......................... $5.60

Shop for the best fresh, delicious Japanese products The go-to supermarket for many local Japanese expat families and fans of Japanese produce, Meidi-ya has been providing more than just freshness since 2003. Known for their excellent service and high quality imports, Meidi-ya imports a wide variety of fresh food from Japan

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on a regular basis, from crunchy greens and robust roots to succulent seafood and umamirich meat. They are also known for their quality house brand products. Their popular My Jam is made with the finest and freshest fruits available for a rich, flavourful taste.

Bentoss Come-in Hokkaido

Tenzaru Soba ............. $14.80 Kanimeshi Ju ............... $15.80

Meidi-ya Peanut Butter Creamy ......$7.50 Meidi-ya Fresh Eggs .......................... $4.95 Liang Court Shopping Centre #B1-50, 177 River Valley Road | 6339-1111 Daily 10am - 10pm meidi-ya.com.sg/en/

Japanese

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Order a beer as soon as you sit down.

Salmon Kaisen Ju ....... $23.80

The best of Hokkaido’s tastiness in a box Bentoss is a boxed-lunch specialty store from Hokkaido. Using mostly freshly-imported ingredients from Japan’s northern prefecture, they have created a scrumptious menu loved by Japanese and locals alike. The selection includes vegetarian-friendly options such as the Ramen Salad and seafood favourites such as Salmon Kaisen Ju and Kanimeshi Ju. If you prefer noodles over rice, try their Tenzaru Soba or Tenzaru Ramen which is served with light, fluffy tempura and tender, silky noodles.

Liang Court Shopping Centre #B1-50, 177 River Valley Road Daily 10am - 10pm http://aichifoods.sg

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Use the warm towel to refresh yourself before the start of the meal.

Say Gochisousama to your chef after your meal to show your appreciation.

ごちそうさま！

Tomo Izakaya 朋友 居酒屋

PROMOTION

1 for 1

Fudo (internationally awarded sake) $100 nett Stewed Tender Pork Back Ribs ....$16 Whole Grilled Squid ......$16.50

Chill out at an authentic alfresco izakaya This traditional-inspired izakaya (居酒屋 , gastropub) has a simple, minimalistic décor that is warm and welcoming. The menu features a wide variety of dishes made from ingredients freshly imported from Tokyo. Apart from sushi, they also offer

robatayaki (炉端焼き, fire-grilled food), yakitori, ramen and karaage.

Plus, be spoiled for choice as Tomo’s extensive drink list includes shochu, sake, wine and beer – there’s a drink to match every dish available!

Fresh Imported Sushi or Sashimi ...........................from $54

Clark Quay #01-04, 3A River Valley Road 6333-0100 | Sun-Thu 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1am Fri/Sat/Eve of PH 6pm - 3am ww.tomoizakaya.com/home.php

WAttention Singapore

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IPPIN CAFÉ BAR 極品

Oyakodon Set ................$15 nett

Set Lunch ......................from $32 Omakase Lunch Course .... $78

Ayu Sweetfish ..................$5 nett

Omakase Dinner Course ...from $128

Grace Piece Darjeeling Tea ......$8 nett

Unagi Course ..............from $128

Deep Fried Oyster ...... $38 nett

Enjoy a show with your dinner

Discover a "better-than-mama" dining experience

For the best experience at Chikuyotei, reserve a counter seat and watch as your chef whips up a delicious meal of charcoal-grilled unagi or wagyu beef right in front of you. Do not miss their soup which is made with 2-year-old hongarebushi (ほんがれぶし, dried fish flakes) and served fresh from the first brewing — giving it a rich, intense flavour.

Singapore’s first home concept café bar not only serves affordable, authentic Japanese meals such as a savoury Oyakodon, Ayu sweetfish and fried oyster, they also serve Japanese craft beer, WAKU WAKU BEER and Japanese green tea. They also sell a variety of unique Japanese products. From snacks and sake to breads and condiments, miso and beer to nuts and tea, every product is specially selected for their oishii (おいしい, delicious) taste and reasonable prices.

UE Square River Wing #01-61, 207 River Valley Road (UE Square Residence side) 6235-2795 / 9858-9892 | Daily Noon – 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm), 6pm – 10.30pm (L.O. 10pm) Chikuyotei UE Square

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18 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-01 | 6733-4794 | Mon-Sat Noon - 3pm, 5pm 11pm Closed Sun & PH ippin-jpc.com #IPPINCAFEBAR #BetterThanMom

Teppan Bar Q テッパン バー キュー

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention”

& get a FREE Potato Salad.

Valid till end of June.

Course Menu .........................$60/$80/$100

Casual teppanyaki dinner at the quay Their menu is made up of umami-rich meats and luxurious cuts such as Wagyu Tongue Shio, fanfavourite Mentaiko and Hakata local cuisine such as Hataka-style Pancake and Tonpei Yaki.

They offer course dinners that come with a selection

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WAttention Singapore

Hakata Tonpei Yaki ............................. $22.90 of Hakata foods, tapas, seafood and meat. Course dishes change daily depending on the ingredients available.

This spacious teppanyaki bar is great for gatherings with friends and family especially with their selection of sake and wines from Japan and Spain.

All prices are correct at time of print and do not include any taxes.

Borsao (wine) ................................................. $70 Kitaya Kansansui (sake) .............................$130 Robertson Walk #01-21/22 | 6235-0629 Daily 6pm - 12am Teppan Bar Q

Japanese Food Street: ROBERTSON

4

QUAY AREA

Ginza Kuroson 銀座黒尊

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention”

& get 1 free drink.

(Beer, shochu (glass), wine (glass), soft drink)

Fisher man’s Nage Don (Lunch only) ........... $20

Dine on delicious, delectable dishes by the river With an experienced Japanese chef helming the kitchen, Ginza Kuroson is an intimate dining experience that serves heavenly Japanese cuisine.

From savoury grilled meats and fresh seafood to their wide selection of Japanese alcohol, Ginza Kuroson does not compromise on taste or quality.

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Their signature dishes include specially selected fresh uni (雲丹, sea urchin), oyster and daily catches imported from Japan and ceramic-grilled Kobe wagyu.

Ginza Kuroson also has three snug private dining rooms with kid-friendly horigotatsu-style tables that can be used for various occasions.

Sushi Kaishin 寿司海神

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7 variety of seasonal Sashimi ........ from $48 Riverside View #01-10/11, 30 Robertson Quay 6737-5547 ¦ Daily 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2pm), 6pm - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) ginza-kuroson.com Ginza Kuroson Singapore

Sukiyaki restaurant

KUROYA

すき焼きの店

黒家

PROMOTION PROMOTION

Mention “WAttention” Kagoshima Wagyu Fair

Mention “WAttention”

Sukiyaki set/ Tomato Sukiyaki set/ Shabu shabu set

& get 1 free drink.

$120 →$100

(Beer, shochu (glass), soft drink)

Lunch Tsukiji course ........... $28

*No GST service charge included. Reservation required. Promotion until end of June.

Dinner Ume course .......... $100

Enjoy affordable, authentic Edo-mae sushi

Cosy up with fragrant, mouthwatering hotpots

Under the skillful hands of a Ginzakyubei-trained chef, a wide variety of fresh, succulent seafood is turned into scrumptious sushi. The sushi is made with high quality Nagano Koshihikari rice and Hokkaido mineral water, giving the rice its rich taste and fluffy texture. They serve two different sets for lunch and dinner, Tsukiji and Ume; and will be celebrating their 2nd anniversary in May*.

This restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere and a semi-private room with a hori-gotatsu-style table that has plenty of space to stretch your legs. They specialize in shabu-shabu and sukiyaki hotpots served with high quality kurobuta pork and signature wagyu beef.

Riverside View #01-04, 30 Robertson Quay | 6733-3720 | Daily 11.30am 3pm (L.O. 2pm), 6pm - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) heb.jp/shop-kaishin-shin.html Sushi Kaishin *Call for more infomation.

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Their Tomato Sukiyaki is especially popular for its unique sweet and spicy flavour that you can use to make cheese risotto.

33 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-03 | 6734-4740 / 9657-9120 (SMS) Mon-Sat 5.30pm - 12am Closed Sun kuroya-sukiyaki.jp

HIMONO-YA ひもの屋

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention” & get

10% OFF from your bill

Indulge in the full-f lavour of traditional sun-dried fish A popular Japanese joint that specialises in himono has a beautiful rich, smoky flavour. (干物 , sun-dried) dishes. Sun-drying fish is a traditional They also serve a large selection of sake including method of preserving fish that gives it a distinct flavour. the rare and popular Dassai sake at very reasonable Their wide menu offers a variety of himono produce. prices and have large private rooms that are available The one must-try is the Hokkaido hokke (𩸽), which for various occasions.

Sashimi assortment (9 kinds) ..................$41.80 Hokkaido Jumbo Himono Hokke .............$41.80 Luxurious seafood Nokke Sushi .......... $39.80 Robertson Walk #02-14, 11 Unity Street 6235-9110 ¦ Daily 6pm - 1am Singapore Himonoya

WAttention Singapore

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Japanese Food Street: ROBERTSON

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Shunjuu

QUAY AREA

春秋

Sumiyaki (Charcoal-grill)............ from $4 (2 sticks) Oyster Omelette ........................................$17 Deep-fried Camembert Cheese .............$15 Sea Urchin Spaghetti ............................... $25

Relish mouth-watering charcoal-grilled bites by the river This sumiyaki (炭焼き, charcoal-grill) restaurant is very popular with local Japanese expats in Singapore.

They have more than 70 types of kushiyaki items on the menu including a special tsukune and other creative dishes. Their signature sticks include Foie

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Gras, Kaki Buta Maki and Asparagus Buta Maki. Other specialties include Oyster Omelette, Deep-fried Camembert Cheese and Uni Spaghetti. They also offer over 80 kinds of carefully selected Japanese alcohol including a rare fuguzake (ふぐ酒, blowfish sake).

Riverside View #01-15, 30 Robertson Quay 6887-3577 ¦ Daily Noon - 2.30pm, Mon-Thu 6pm - 11pm, Fri-Sat 6pm - 11.30pm, Sun 5.30pm - 10.30pm shunjuu.com Shunjuu Izakaya

Sandaime Mikoto 三代目 尊

PROMOTION Mention “WAttention” and get a

FREE

Spicy Grilled Half Chicken *Terms and conditions apply. Only valid Tue-Thu with reservation of min. 4 pax. Valid till end May 2016 .

Assorted Sashimi .......6 kinds $20 / 3 kinds $10 Spicy Grilled Half Chicken ........................(U.P.$18)

Late-night dining at its finest This izayaka has all the traits of a typical Japanese food bar – a cosy atmosphere, great service and amazing food. They have a daily menu that changes on a regular basis so every visit is a surprise. Plus, they use ingredients flown in from Japan to create authentic flavours.

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ShabuShabu Azmaya

Their affordable sake selection has over 10 different labels for you to choose from. They also serve shochu such as the popular Kukirishima. It is also a popular spot for sake lovers as they have a daily drink buffet starting from $55++.

The Quayside #01-12, 60 Robertson Quay 6235-5277 ¦ Tue-Thu, 6pm - 12am Fri-Sun 6pm - 3am Closed Mon

しゃぶしゃぶ東屋

PROMOTION Japanese Wagyu ShabuShabu Buffet

$90 →$45

Japanese Wagyu BBQ Buffet

$100 →$50

Aromatic, full-flavour shabu-shabu at affordable prices Relax by the river with a cooling breeze at this authentic shabu-shabu and yakiniku-style restaurant. Azmaya serves a varied selection of meats, including high quality A5 grade wagyu.

Because they import the entire cow, they are able

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WAttention Singapore

to offer unique cuts such as beef collar, tongue and lung at an affordable price. The restaurant is great for holding large functions but if you feel like having a taste of Azmaya at home, they also have a BBQ set that can be delivered to your doorstep.

All prices are correct at time of print and do not include any taxes.

Free Flow Drinks $35 30 Robertson Quay #01-12/13 6737-6863 / BBQ delivery 9066-0031 Mon-Thu 6pm - 1am, Fri 6pm - 4am, Sat 5pm - 4am, Sun 5pm - 1am Wagyu Beef ShabuShabu Azmaya Singapore

MAFF Event Report

C ookin g—

— yo Tohoku kyodo -r ri Learning more about food safety

The Tohoku region has shown great progress in recovering and maintaining the quality and flavour of its produce since the Great East Japan Earthquake. To raise awareness about the safety of Tohoku’s produce, Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) held a cooking class and food and sake tasting event featuring produce and sake from Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures.

In between the cooking lesson, students were able to sample the different foods from the various regions and had a sake introduction and pairing lesson with a sake sommelier. They also learned more about Tohoku’s stringent food safety standards which helped them to feel more at ease about purchasing and eating Tohoku products after the session.

Students learnt how to prepare traditional Tohoku kyōdo-ryōri (東北郷土料理 , local cuisine).

The menu included harako-meshi (はらこ飯 , salmon and roe rice), hiyayakko (冷奴 , cold tofu) with Tomato and Onion Sauce and Sake Cocktail with Apple Gelee. Students were able to sample four kinds of sake: Okunomatsu from Fukushima, Ichinokura Suzune Wabi and Uragasumi from Miyagi and Nanbu Bijin Umeshu from Iwate.

After this session I have more confidence in the food safety.

Angela

Fukushima is recovering well, I would buy these foods as long as they are available.

Terry Tay

I believe the food is safe thanks to Singapore’s strict regulation rules.

Christine & Renee

Delicious delights fresh from Tohoku Region Tohoku Region 東北地方

Fukushima Prefecture

Miyagi Prefecture

Iwate Prefecture

宮城県

岩手県

Juicy peaches, persimmons and fresh vegetables are amongst some of Fukushima Prefecture’s most delicious food products available in Singapore.

Due to their stringent monitoring, the prefecture has had no reports of any product exceeding the food safety standards over the past three years.

Surrounded by an abundance of nature, Miyagi Prefecture is best known for its farmed rice varieties such as Hitomebore and Sasanishiki and cultivated Bonito, Tuna and Pacific Saury. Also available from Miyagi are Coho salmon, oysters and wakame (ワカメ, edible seaweed).

Thanks to her clean air, clear waters and extremely fertile soil, Iwate Prefecture is able to grow high quality rice. Home to the Northern Master Brewer, one of the three Master Brewers in Japan, Iwate also produces an abundance of aromatic and flavourful sake.

福島県

ABC Cooking Studio With over 135 studios in Japan and 16 overseas, ABC Cooking Studio aims to bring happiness to the dinner table by offering quality bread, cake, wagashi, traditional Japanese dish and kids cooking classes.

391A Orchard Road, #03-12, Takashimaya S.C. Tel: 6694-6104 | Daily 10am – 10pm abc-cooking.com.sg sg@abc-cooking.com.sg

Iwate Prefecture 岩手県

Miyagi Prefecture 宮城県

Fukushima Prefecture 福島県

Message from Fukushima Staff This is a great opportunity to educate fans of Japanese food about the safety, freshness and high quality produce available from these areas. I would love to come back again to share more information.

ing t s e er

gs t n i d n I Fin

ら 外国人か い 白 見た面 ！ ！！ 日本語

in

Discover new interesting Japanese words and phrases from a Japanese learner’s point of view with the aid of a Japanese teacher. Let’s get started! ☺

今日の単語

W or d of th e d a y

まいりました

Pronounciation

Mairimashita

発音

どう し

Form 型

Meaning 意味

けんじょうご

動詞 ／謙 譲語

rm Verb / humble fo rm) fo e lit po e th of (one e past tense of Mairimashita is th is used as one It . iru the term ma for “come” ms of the polite ter mble form that hu a th wi ” “go d an iority. It is more shows your infer your politeness ow sh to often said or heading to a at when you arrive particular place.

T o d a y ’s Learner:

Today’s Broken Japanese

B ダッシュ da

Conductor Aki Loves exploring how culture affects language differently around the world and works as copywriter & editor.

Also has a postgraduate certificate in TJFL (teaching Japanese as a foreign language).

Victoria Ng

06

VOL.

How to use

from Singapore

Like many Japanese words, mairimashita is not just polite; you can use it in many different situations and with a variety of implied meanings.

Whether politely announcing your presence upon arrival at a business meeting or at traditional Japanese game meets such as Shogi or Judo, you can use it as a way to show respect to your superior or opponent.

You can also use it to express yourself in a laidback manner, to show how nonchalant you feel about a particular situation. In this case, it would be similar to “oh well” or the singlish expression, alamak.

今どき の言葉

Bi

Japanese Language

mairimashita

Sounds like Sasuke from Naruto…

ただいま、参りました。 Ta da i

ma

mai ri ma shi ta

I have only just arrived .

When you want to show how nonplussed you feel…

いや∼、 i

yaaaaa

まいりましたよ∼

ma i ri ma shi ta yooooo Well, I did not quite care for it anyway...

Popular amongst youngsters, the term means “really in a rush” or “come super quickly”. The term originated from one of the most famous games in Japan where the player had to press the “B” button (and a directional button) to make the main character run speedily. Hence, teens started to use the term to describe when they are in hurry. The term is quite flexible in its usage and it can be a noun or a verb depending on the context. When you are late meeting your friends, use this expression so people understand that you are trying to get there ASAP, like Mario!

sshu

る。 Bダッシュで向かって ru tte

de mu ka sshu Bi da ! (I am heading in high speed) dash B with I am heading

B ダッシュ中！

When you lose the match and you show respect to your opponent.

まいりました。

mai ri ma shi ta I yield against you/ I accept defeat.

(You are stronger than me).

You can use this at the interview?

日々、 Hi bi

努力してまいりました

Bi da sshu chuu!

I am B dashing now. (Rushing now )

do ryoku shi te ma i

ri ma shi ta

I try to make an effort everyday.

Illustration credit: www.irasutoya.com

One year Japanese Studies in Kyoto University of Foreign Studies Immerse in the Japanese culture while learning Japanese in Kyoto University of Foreign Studies The one year course is designed for foreign students who wish to proceed to a degree program at a University in Japan or to gain mastery in their Japanese language skills. The period of study is from Sept 2016 to Aug 2017. Application deadline is 27th May 2016.

World Square helps applications to Universities, Pathways and Foundations in Japan, Australia, Canada, USA and UK. http://w-square.com/english/

www .ikoma.com.sg

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Enquiries or application, please email wsq@world-edu.com.sg or visit us at World Square, 51 Cuppage Road #07-12 Singapore 229469.

World Creative Education Group since 1990

EVENT & INFORMATION | MAY & JUN 2016

FIND OUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN JAPAN & SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE 15 May Furoshiki Fun! Print, Wrap, Tie Workshop Learn how to carve and create your own design block and print them on fabric to create your own traditional Japanese wrapping cloth. Plus, try your hand at different methods of furoshiki wrapping and tying.

Esplanade Rehearsal Studio $30 20 May Himiko: Memories of the Sun Goddess A Production by Suntory Hall (Japan) Enjoy an epic evening of Japanese storytelling as Suntory Hall shares their reimagined legend of the sun goddess Himiko. Esplanade Rehearsal Studio $35 Ⓦ esplanade.com/festivals-and-series/ super-japan-japanese-festival-of-arts/2016/ himiko-memories-of-the-sun-goddess

SG: 20-22 May - Super Japan Matsuri Experience an authentic Japanese matsuri and have an exciting night filled with traditional Japanese festival games like shateki, katanuki and senbonbiki; and food such as yaki-ika, takoyaki, soft cream and more. Plus, come dressed in a yukata and get one free game coupon!

Esplanade (in front of Makansutra) | Free Entry ⓕ Super Japan Matsuri ⓔ sjmatsuri@wattention.com

RECENT EVENTS 6-13 Mar Oishii J-Pork Fair Recently, the Japan Livestock Products Export Promotion Council ( J-LEC) held a cooking class for Singaporean housewives and bloggers to educate them on the tantalizing taste and high quality of Japanese pork. They worked with 10 local restaurants to offer a special J-Pork menu. Ⓦ jlec-pr.jp

4 Jun SCANDAL TOUR 2016 [YELLOW] IN SINGAPORE Catch Haruna, Mami, Tomomi and Rina live on their latest promotional tour where they will be performing their latest singles such as Stamp! and Sisters.

Note that this is a free standing event.

VVIP $398 VIP $148 GA$98 | Hard Rock Hotel® Singapore, Resorts World™ Sentosa Ⓦ japanmusicfestival.asia/2016scandal 23 Jul flumpool Tour 2016 WHAT ABOUT EGGS? Singapore Spend an epic evening with popular J-Rock band flumpool as they set the stage ablaze with their vibrant personalities, amazing skills and rocking songs to promote their latest album, EGG. MILLIAN, St James Power Station VIP $198, GA $68 ⓕ Amuse.Inc.Asia

Looking for a

CAREER

in a Japanese Multi-National Company?

Good Job Creations is your gateway!

Good Job Creations (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.

http://goodjobcreations.com.sg/en/ ☎ (65) 6258 8051 EA License No 07C5771

WAttention Singapore

41

KANPAI

Presented by

VOL.3 | SAKE CULTURE |

Brewery: Yamaeiendo Shuzo 山栄遠藤酒造

Be charmed with every sparkling sip of this SAKEMARU exclusive sake

Found in the southern part of Yamagata, this brewery is surrounded by a plethora of rich natural resources which allows them to brew ambrosial bottles of sake year after year.

The brewery makes use of the clean air, pure snow, specially grown rice and clear and soft mountain water to maintain the quality of their sake.

Committed to brewing excellence, the sake master and assistants also often attend brewing workshops to constantly improve their skills.

For the month of May, they have specially produced a limited edition sake called Shiroishizuku.

no added starches, sugars or brewer’s alcohol. Nigori literally means “cloudy” and refers to unfiltered sake that still contains unfermented rice solids that give the sake a cloudy appearance. Nama genshu is a sake that has no water added and it is not pasteurised – making it a fresh, undiluted sake. This means that the sake has a full-bodied, creamy rice-flavour.

This fragrant sake has a fresh peach aroma and light sparkling texture making it popular with the ladies. It is also best served chilled, making it a great drink during warm, summer days.

Sake tips

Nama sake must be kept refrigerated so that the enzymes in the sake will not activate and cause the sake to go bad. It should also be consumed quickly after opening.

Win a bottle of

Tokubetsu junmai nigori nama genshu SHIROISHIZUKU 特別純米うすにごり生酒 白い雫

This sake has been brewed in a smaller amount and is so exclusive that it is not even available in Japan.

Shiroishizuku is a tokubetsu junmai nigori nama genshu (特別純米うすにごり生酒 白い雫). Tokubetsu means special, while junmai refers to pure sake that has

SHIROISHIZUKU when you visit our website or Facebook page.

wattention.com.sg WAttentionSingapore Find all Sake Culture series online!

What is Sakemaru?

Introducing the Singapore’s first dedicated Sake subscription site Sakemaru is a sake subscription service that delivers bottles of fresh seasonal sake from diff erent breweries in Japan. Depending on your subscription plan, you will receive one or two bottles of fresh sake transported and delivered chilled right to your doorstep.

To begin your Sakemaru journey, simply sign up for an account on their webpage and select a subscription plan. To receive the sake of the month, orders must be placed by the 20th of the same month.

https://sakemaru.me/sg/

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Monthly delivery

Special seasonal sake

Fine breweries

Trial Promotion

Delivery of special sake at the end of every month; you can specify the delivery date and time.

Exports only fresh seasonal namazake (生酒 , fresh sake) and uses refrigerated transportation to keep the freshness.

Only the finest breweries in Japan are selected to maintain commitment to quality and taste.

Enjoy 50% your first order at Sakemaru. Get your first bottle of sake for just $25 (U.P.$50).

MAKE YOUR NEXT DESTINATION wattention.com.sg For everything you need to know about Japanese food, lifestyle, travel and more.

NEW website

Singapore Edition

Read our digital copy online now at issuu.com/WAttention Available on