WAttention Singapore vol 33

Singapore Edition

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

TA K E FREE July / Aug 2016 VOL.33 MCI (P) 112/12/2015

富士山

M t.F U JI

&

R ME

in

SUM HO

夏

北海道

KKAID O

G Ginza Kuroson 1 Anniversary st

First Anniversary

Special Course

1 Anniversary Promotion 1 - 31 July st

1 Anniversary Special Course $88 st

Say “WAttention”

Seasonal Appetizer

and get 1 FREE

Sashimi (4 kinds) Charcoal grilled Kinki fish

beer or soft drink Terms and Conditions apply.

Unagi sushi Kuroson Special Shimanto Somen Noodle Dessert

銀

座・黒 尊

Kinki set

1st Anniversary Gozen set $150 $78 -Kobegyu set•Seasonal Appetizer •Charcoal grilled Kobe beef steak •Nigiri Sushi (5 kinds) •Dessert

G

inza Kuroson is proud to have been serving fresh Japanese seafood and providing

high

quality

service to our guests for the past 1 year at our Takashimaya branch.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, we will be offering a wide array of promotions including a special course menu and Gozen set, which includes fresh Kinki fish imported from Japan

-Kinki set•Seasonal Appetizer •Charcoal grilled Kinki fish •Nigiri Sushi (5 kinds) •Dessert

starting 1 July ‘16. Call 6235-3785 to make a reservation today.

Kobegyu set

First Anniversary

Gozen Set 290 Orchard Road, Takashimaya Shopping Centre #03-10

☎6235-3785

Daily Lunch: 11am - 3.30pm (L.O. 3pm) Dinner: 6pm - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) ginza-kuroson.com/

暦 Koyomi Early July -

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

End August

Summer Festival 夏祭り

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

In Japan, various shrines and temples hold summer festivals during the months of July and August. The origins of these festivals stem from a way to soothe the tired souls from farming labour, and to pray for protection from illnesses, as well as to remember the deceased.

One of the joys of the summer season is visiting the temple and shrine grounds during these festive days when rows of shops would be lined up. Many of these shop owners were travelling businessmen who used to be called

Jusanyashi and moved between various prefectures selling their wares. The items sold include medicine, tobacco, toothpaste and other rare objects that came from overseas. In the olden days, there were 13 such known items, hence the name Jusanyashi refers to this number.

There would also be manzai comedians or singers selling their acts to entertain the crowds at the festival.

Before the days of newspapers and mass communication, these people were the main source of news for the locals,

who head to the festival to fulfil their curiosity. Now, this custom remains in the form of different goods being sold, leaving some stalls such as goldfish fishing, mask shops and candied fruits that still continue to delight the children.

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.

WAttention Singapore

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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.

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VOL.33

SPECIAL FEATURES

CELEBRATE SUMMER - THE JAPANESE WAY

日本の夏をたっぷり楽しむ

03

In Harmony with the Seasons

Publisher

06

What’s New?

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

SPECIAL FEATURE

10

Summer Celebration

Everything you need to know about an authentic Japanese summer experience

14

Ascending Mt. Fuji

Tips on going up and 12 things to see, do and eat around this sacred mountain

20

Hokkaido Summer

Japan’s northern island is not just a winter wonderland and here is why

30

Delightful Hokkaido in SG

Tantalize your taste buds and relax your body with these treats

SCAN THESE ICONS FOR MORE INFO

29

JPN47 Vol.12 – Hakodate, Hokkaido

34

Japan Travel & Beyond – Summer Guide

36

Interesting Facts about Japanese Words Vol.7

38

Nippon Heritage Explorer Vol.5 Hiroshima

39

Lifestyle & Entertainment

40

Event & Information

42

Kanpai Vol. 4

Yasuko Suzuki

Singapore Edition Producer Teppei Nitobe

Editor in Chief Naoki Kiyota

Advertising Sales

Ayako Miyazaki / Miyoko Takeuchi / Hana Omori Mikako Suzuki / Naotaka Ichinose Aruma Kawabata

Editorial Team

Victoria Ng / Lam Ying Wai / Chew Yan Qiao Evelyn Tan / Sarah Wee

Design Team

Chew Yan Qiao / Eunice Wee

Japan Editorial & Design Team

Ayako Sogo / Yuka Suzuki / Kenji Ishida

Photographer

Maiko Yoshimoto / Hajime Watanabe

Partners

WAttention Co., Ltd

Cover Photo

Mt.Fuji (Shizuoka), Lavender Field (Sapporo), Pakutaso

Contributor

Aki Tajima, Mr Tomoji Kato (Kojitsusanso)

Special Thanks

Hokkaido Government Representative Office, The Hokkaido Railway Company, Shizuoka Prefectural Government Representative Office Registered in Singapore, Yamanashi prefecuture government International Tourism Exchange Division, Kanagawa prefecture government International Tourism Division

本誌に関する日本国内でのお問い合わせ先 和テンション株式会社

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Why “WAttention”?

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

WATTENTION 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.

Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

This publication and the name are owned solely by Minook International (S) Pte Ltd, 2B Craig Rd, Singapore 089662. Email: singapore@wattention.com. WATTENTION is published bimonthly and distributed throughout Singapore. Trademarks and copyrights for all other products, logos and depictions contained herein are the properties of their respective trademark and copyright owners.

All colour separation and printing by NPE PRINT COMMUNICATIONS PTE LTD Licence No. L002/12/2015 39 & 41 KALLANG PLACE, Singapore 339169 MCI (P) 112/12/2015 Distributor: DJ Express Services

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アテンション！新登場

WAt’S Orchard and more

KIRA きら Orchard Central #03-12 | 6333-8787 Thomson Plaza #01-56 | 6458-4585 Nex #04R-76 | 6484-0131 kira.com.sg

Unveil your skin’s true beauty Achieve clear, beautiful skin with KIRA’s signature Dr. Recella Custom Made Treatment and The Aqua Venus Suncut Spray.

Developed by Dr. Recella’s Executive Director Kyoko Jojima, this exclusive skincare treatment uses a gentle electronic brush and mineralrich Okinawan sea water to tighten pores, brighten and detox skin to give you a flawless complexion without the need for makeup.

Further protect your skin with Dr. Recella’s The Aqua Venus Suncut Spray. The non-chemical formula is made with all natural ingredients that is gentle on the skin and is SPF50++ which makes it ideal for everyday use.

The salon is a part of Singapore Island Country Club’s charity drive — the Suncut Spray and facial treatments are all available from $10 and proceeds will be donated to the cause.

[ Promotion ] Dr. Recella Suncut Spray

$10

Dr. Recella Custom Made Treatment (60 mins)

$188

$10

SDX Collagen Treatment (75 mins)

$188

$10

*All sales will be donated to charity. Facial payment is voluntary from $10 onwards

KIRA@SICC Charity Event

Executive Director 城嶋 杏香 Kyoko Jojima

Orchard

Isetan Shaw House Basement 1, 350 Orchard Road 6733-1111 | Daily 11am – 9pm

Discover a new multi-sensory food experience From the tantalising scent of freshly baked bread and wide window display to a Permanent Event Stage that will host Isetan’s Japanese Fairs and supermarket dine-in spots, Isetan’s new food theatre concept space is sure to appeal to new and regular shoppers.

The supermarket also offers a new array of services including rice polishing, island-wide delivery, overseas packing service and a porter service.

Orchard

En Sakaba エンさかば Orchard Central #01-16, 181 Orchard Road | 6634-1018 Mon-Thu Noon - 12am, Fri-Sun/Eve of PH Noon - 1am

Relax and bond over great food This new sakaba ( Japanese bar) offers a wide variety of Japanesestyle tapas, sake and beer in a cosy city space. With its chic, contemporary interior, it makes for a relaxing after-work hangout.

Some umami-rich delights on the menu include the Kani Miso Kourayaki (crabmeat with roe and gut grilled in shell) and Unagi Kabayaki (grilled eel with sweet sauce).

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WAttention Singapore

RESTAUR ANTS | SHOPS | EVENTS

Changi Airport

Hello Kitty Orchid Garden Arrival Hall Central #01-22, Terminal 3, Singapore Changi Airport Daily 24 Hours HelloKittyOrchidGarden.com HelloKittyCafeSingapore

Big Breakfast Surprise .............................................................. $18.50 Rose, Rose I Love You .................................................................$17.50 Cowabunga! Wagyu! .............................................................................$24 Cumbernade .......................................................................................$7.90

Singapore’s 1st Hello Kitty Café now open Sweet, elegant and delicious — that is the best way to describe the world’s first 24-hour Hello Kitty themed café.

The menu is western-themed with a local and Asian twist and all of them come with a touch of Kitty.

One must-try is the Big Breakfast Surprise with its creamy scrambled eggs with smoked duck slices, sautéed shiitake mushrooms and crispy Kitty waffles embedded with melted cheddar.

Duxton

Ninja Bowl 15 Duxton Road | 6222-8055 Mon-Fri 9.30am - 7.30pm, Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm ninjabowl.com.sg

Ninja Bowl

Genki .................................................................................................. $16 Ebisu ................................................................................................... $18 Fancy French .............................................................................. $16

Tuck into hearty one-bowl wonders These all-in-one bowls are the perfect value-for-money meals for busy bees in the CBD. The bowls all come with healthy portions of protein and greens while carbs are extra add-ons.

The Japanese-inspired menu features ingredients such as as yaki unagi (焼うなぎ, grilled eel), aburi chashu (炙りチャシュー, torched pork belly), Hokkaido scallops and onsen tamago (温泉たまご, soft boiled egg). However, their space is very cosy, so go early if you want to avoid the lunch hour crowd.

Kallang

Yunomori Onsen 湯の森 温泉 Kallang Wave Mall #02-17/18, 1 Stadium Place | 6386-4126 | Daily 10am – 11pm

Onsen Entrance Fee .............................. (Adult ) $38 / (Child/Senior Citizen) $28 Onsen + 60mins Thai Massage ............................................................. $118 Onsen + 90mins Thai Massage & Herbal Compress ......................... $156 Prices shown are without GST

Southeast Asia’s leading Japanese Onsen is now in Singapore Literally translated as “hot water of the forest”, the massive spa located at Kallang Wave Mall boasts of gender-divided saunas, steam, shower areas and 11 pools — fi ve for women, six for men — that have different attributes and properties.

Similar to traditional Japanese onsens, guests are expected to wash themselves in the shared bathing area before taking a dip in

the pools. For ladies who may be too shy to go in fully nude, the spa has disposable cotton underwear on hand.

To add on to the full spa experience, Yunomori also offers Traditional Thai, Aroma Oil, shoulder, foot and head massages, and herbal compresses.

WAttention Singapore

7

Experience a New Sensation

with Suntory The Premium Malt’s It’s all in the Creamy Foam The creamy foam of Suntory The Premium Malt’s is important and functional, and is a result of research and dedication to the craft of beer. Suntory creates creamy foam with a unique pouring method which keeps the gas in the beer, maintaining its refreshing taste. Additionally, the foam does not disappear over time, no matter how many sips you take!

Foam is hugely important in draught beer, and Suntory The Premium Malt’s creamy foam is smooth and provides a great mouth feel. It also serves as a lid on top of the beer, ensuring that the flavour and aroma of Suntory The Premium Malt’s is kept in the liquid. The creamy foam also traps the carbonated gas in the beer to ensure a consistent, refreshing taste as you drink it. Lastly, the creamy foam protects the beer from unwanted oxidization, which can alter and degrade the taste and quality of the beer.

100% European Aroma Hop Saaz in the Czech Republic and Hallertau in Germany are known as chief production areas for aroma hops.

Suntory The Premium Malt’s pursues elegant aroma of beer by abundant use of only high-quality aroma hops from Saaz and Hallertau.

100% Selected Two-Row Barley with Diamond Malts Malt is important in determining the taste of beer. All malts used for Suntory The Premium Malt’s are high quality two-row barley malts and Diamond malts, which create richness taste.

100% Pure Natural Japanese Water Water makes up about 90% of the beer and is a critical ingredient. All water used for Suntory The Premium Malt’s is clean underground water that has been filtered by the natural geological stratum and is rich in mineral content.

SUNTORY THE PREMIUM MALT’S: Irresistable perfect pairings

Bincho Inspired by a yakitori-ya (traditional small grilling stall) in Osaka, Bincho is a unique allin-one dining concept. The restaurant offers off-the-skewer yakitori made with high quality Japanese ingredients such as fresh local Japanese vegetables. These charcoalgrilled delights taste best when accompanied by a refreshing tall glass of cold Suntory The Premium Malt’s after a long day at work.

25

% OFF

Suntory The Premium Malt’s Happy Hour Tue-Sun, 12pm - 8pm

78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19 | 6438-4567 Lunch Tue-Sun 12pm - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) Dinner Tue-Sun 6pm till late Closed Mon bincho.com.sg Bincho at Hua Bee Yakitori Tare Moriawase

Pince & Pints

10

%

OFF

Suntory The Premium Malt’s Promotion Promotion valid till end of August ‘16

Live Whole Lobster

Me@OUE This open-concept-kitchen offers three distinct cuisines and menus — Japanese, French and Chinese — that showcase culinary creativity at its finest. The expansive menus are created together with celebrity chefs such as Chen Kentaro and Michelin-Starred Chef Jérémy Gillon. Take in the outstanding sights of Marina Bay in this sky-high experience while enjoying a relaxing drink in the spacious dining room with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

The Rooftop Level OUE Bayfront 50 Collyer Quay | 6634-4555 Lunch Mon-Fri 12noon - 2pm Dinner Mon-Tue 6pm - 10pm Wed-Sat 6pm - 10.30pm Lounge Mon-Sat 6pm until late Closed Sat afternoons and Sun me-oue.com me.oue

1 FOR 1 Suntory The Premium Malt’s

Weekday lunch only.

Promotion valid from 1 July - 31 August ‘16

Left to right: Tori Momoniku Teriyaki, Duck Leg Confit & “Kung Pao” Wagyu Beef

This lobster specialty restaurant and bar uses only fresh, wild-caught, air-flown Atlantic Coast lobsters in their dishes.

They grill or steam the lobsters to tender, bouncy perfection to bring out the rich flavour. The lobsters come with a side of straight-cut fries and grilled corn on the cob. And what better way to wash it all down than with a nice cold Suntory The Premium Malt’s?

32-33 Duxton Road | 6225-7558 Mon-Fri 12pm - 2.30pm & 5.30pm - 11pm Sat & PH 12pm - 11pm (All Day) Closed Sun pinceandpints Pince & Pints

!

R E M M

SU

PART//01

n o i t a r leb

ce

よ す ま り 始ま が 夏 の 日本

The Slide City FES 2016, 16-17 July, Odaiba, Tokyo

Y

ukata, matsuri, fireworks and chilly desserts, these are the things that make a Japanese summer. Starting from June to August, the weather averages around 30°C but can soar to a high of 42°C during the heatwaves. Despite the heat and humidity, these hot months are when Japan explodes into a flurry of cool activities — literally and figuratively. Got the hots for a Japanese summer experience? Here is how to make the best of the season!

One way to escape from the scorching heat is to visit an outdoor or indoor water theme park. Found scattered throughout Japan, these theme parks are filled with slides, whirlpools and performances.

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WAttention Singapore

Toshimae Amusement Park, Tokyo

SUMMER PART//01 Summer Celebration

ス

ビールフェ

祭り

ens Beer Gard

Matsuri

甲子園野球

ōshien Summer K

Matsuri, or festivals, in Japan are held throughout the year with a bulk of them happening in summer. These festivals often revolve around one event, with food stalls, entertainment and carnival games that last all night long. Some are based around temple or shrine festivities while others involve hanabi (花火 , fireworks), rice harvests or seasons (i.e. summer, winter, etc).

One of the most exciting sports activities of the season is the annual nationwide high school baseball tournament where schools come together to compete in a final showdown at Hanshin Kōshien Stadium in Nishinomiya. Baseball club members train for most of their school life for a chance to play on this national stage where they may be scouted for professional teams.

Beer is a summer necessity in Japan.

Starting from Golden Week, beer gardens pop up all over Japan – from the roof tops of bars, department stores and hotels to cosy cafes and luxurious cruise ships. The king of them all is Sapporo’s Odori Park which is transformed into a giant beer garden for the entire month of July!

SUPER夏NATSU ェス

夏ロックフ

ock Fes Summer R

tival

夏メイク

make up Summer

屋台

Yatai

These mobile food stalls are a staple of the matsuri scene. From grilled foods like yakitori and okonomiyaki to desserts like choco-banana and taiyaki, these stores serve up almost any kind of Japanese festival food imaginable. The easiest way to experience yatai is to head to Fukuoka as it has the largest number of permanent stores throughout the city.

For music aficionados, summer is all about Japan’s explosive music festivals. Summer Sonic, Ultra Japan and Fuji Rock Festival are some of the most anticipated events of the year and attract over 100,000 attendees.

The festivals often feature international and local acts such as Foo Fighters, Muse, The Cure, Artic Monkeys, Queen, LiSA, Sakanaction and BABYMETAL.

This year’s make up trend is all about a natural fresh faced look that highlights the eyes. Cool blue eyeshadow will help your peepers pop while warm orange shades will help to brighten your look and give you a healthier vibe. Finish off your look with thicker eyebrows that have a hint of colour and cool pink lips.

WAttention Singapore

11

Watching the sky explode with thundering bursts of colour is considered one of the most romantic and exhilarating experiences of a Japanese summer. At hanabi (花火 , fireworks) festivals people often show up early to reserve the best viewing spots while enjoying a picnic with friends and family. The firework shows typically last for one to two hours.

西瓜割り

i Suikawar

ホタル

Fireflies

花火大会

s Firework

The quintessential Japanese beach activity. Similar to the Mexican piñata, suikawari involves blindfolded players trying to smash open a watermelon guided by the shouts of their friends. The first person to split the rotund fruit using a bokutou (木刀, wooden sword) or baseball bat is the winner of the game.

These mysterious, magical nighttime bugs are one of Japan’s most beautiful, natural summer phenomenons.

Throughout the months of June and July, towns across Japan hold hotaru matsuri (ホタル祭り, firefly festivals) complete with yatai and performances to celebrate nature’s little floating lanterns setting the night sky aglow during the hotaru gassen (蛍合戦 , firefly mating dance).

SUMMER [ MUST DO ] Summer Activities ① Stargazing ② Hot air ballooning ③ Gion Matsuri in Kyoto ④ Banana boating ⑤ Trail hiking ⑥ River rafting ⑦ Beetle catching ⑧ Horseback riding

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WAttention Singapore

SUMMER PART//01 Summer Celebration

This fun summer tradition has diners working to catch their meal. Aptly named “flowing noodles”, the sōmen is placed in long bamboo flumes with fast running cold water that carries the noodles past guests who try to catch them with their chopsticks. The noodles are then immediately dipped in tsuyu (つゆ, flavoured dipping sauce) and eaten.

冷やし中華

hūka Hiyashi C

Akin to our local ice kachang, this cool dessert is like a cup of freshly fallen snow.

It is often made from pure spring or snow water. Usually served with a flavoured syrup, modern kakigōri now come with a wide variety of toppings that usually showcase the city’s specialty fruit or flavour such as matcha and melon.

かき氷

Kakigōri

ん

流しそうめ

ōmen Nagashi S During the hot and humid days of summer, this chilled ramen dish is a welcome change from regular ramen. The cold noodles are served topped with a variety of ingredients such as strips of tamagoyaki (玉子焼き, egg omelette) and thin slices of cucumber, tomatoes and ham which are tossed together before it is eaten.

JAPAN

There are endless things to do, eat and see during summer so here is a bucket list you can check off during your next visit to Japan!

[ MUST EAT ] Summer Food ① Yakisoba ② Parfait ③ Edamame ④ Suika (Watermelon) ⑤ Toumorokoshi (Corn) ⑥ Mizu shingen mochi ⑦ Unagi Don ⑧ Cold shabu shabu

WAttention Singapore

13

G N I D N E C S A I

PART//02

J U F . t M

！ い な か 夏し 、 ら な る 登 に 山 士 富

17

Mt. Fuji is the 17th World Heritage Site in Japan. There are a total of 19 sites (as of July ’15) — 15 cultural and four natural.

th

Mt. Fuji is one of the Sanreizan (三霊山, Three Holy Mountains) together with Mt. Tate and Mt. Haku.

Active volcanoes make up Mt. Fuji. They are Mt. Hakusan, Mt. Kengamine and Mt. Jojugatake.

300,000

Mt. Fuji climbers make it the most climbed mountain in the world.

5 Lakes

surround the majestic mountain: Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako, Saiko, Motosuko and Shojiko. Kawaguchiko is a tourist favourite as it is better developed than the other lakes, and offers the most amenities and attractions.

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WAttention Singapore

Mt. Fuji is Japan’s most iconic volcano and highest mountain. Visitors can make a trip to the mountain all year round, and summer is the only season when you can climb straight to the peak. But before you put on your hiking boots here are some things you need to know.

2 Months That is the duration of Mt. Fuji’s climbing season, making it one of the shortest for any mountain in the world.

It starts in July and ends as August finishes.

4 Trails

30%

70%

Foreign climbers

Japanese climbers

lead up to the peak: Yoshida in Yamanashi Prefecture and Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya in Shizuoka Prefecture.

Each trail has 10 stations or mountain huts which provide climbers with provisions and basic rations.

2013

was the year it was recognized at a World Heritage Site at the annual UNESCO conference.

SUMMER PART//02 Mt. FUJI

3 Faces of Mt. Fuji

Climb Notes

While serene Mt. Fuji seems to be an immovable, unchanging giant, it has many hidden beautiful faces that are truly a marvel of nature to behold.

by Tomoji Kato (certified guide) Japan Mountain Guides Association, Kojitsusansō Climbing Season

Beginners are encouraged to hike during end July to early August due to the stable weather.

Getting up the Mountain During climbing season there are car restrictions at Yamanashi Prefecture’s Yoshida, Fujinomiya and Subashiri Trail so check for shuttle buses before heading up.

Which Trail to Choose The most popular trail, Yoshida, takes about 10 hours to ascend and descend while Fujinomiya is the shortest at 8 hours and Gotemba, the hardest at 16 hours.

Physical Preparedness It is important to prepare physically before hiking up Mt. Fuji as the atmospheric and temperature changes can be challenging for first-timers.

Enjoy the Climb Climbing Mt. Fuji is not a competition, hike at your own

comfortable pace, and take snack and water breaks while enjoying the views.

Some Things to Bring Pack high energy, easy-to-eat snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, portable oxygen, climbing shoes, cold wear, rainwear, headlamp and trekking pole.

Tips for Altitude Sickness Try to walk slowly without raising your heart rate. Drink warm water or tea and if you get a severe headache and start your descent as fast as possible.

ド富士

ダイヤモン

Fuji Diamond This rare phenomenon only happens around the winter solstice, during sunrise or sunset. When the sun aligns with the peak of Mt. Fuji, it causes the crown to shine like a diamond.

Cash Only Mountain huts along the trail only accept cash. They sell snacks (starting from ¥200), water and have toilets for use (¥100-¥200).

Bring a Trash Bag You are responsible for your own trash on Mt. Fuji; be prepared to carry your trash along your hike until you descend from the mountain.

赤富士

AkaujiF–usujnirise] [Red F

PLACES WITH A VIEW 西湖

o Lake Saik

When the skies are clear, the setting sun shines on the eastern face of Mt. Fuji and turns it red. This is usually seen between summer and fall.

大石公園

k Ōishi Par

笠富士

Fuji lla shape clouds] Kasa ith umbre [Fuji w

One of the Fuji Five Lakes, the scenery from the western end of the Lake Saiko is one of the most sought after by photographers, campers and trekkers.

This park offers a stunning view of Mt. Fuji looming above Lake Kawaguchi, especially from mid-June to mid-July when the lavender field is full bloom.

The ever-changing cloud and skyscape above Mt. Fuji creates opportunities to capture once-in-a-lifetime images.

Lenticular clouds over the peak are an especially unique sight.

Photo credits: Visitor Use Promotion Office, National Park Division, Nature Conservation Bureau, Ministry of the Environment, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

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12

S G THIN y r t o t

i j u F . t M d n u o r a

! た っ あ のが も い 白 面 な ん こ 、 り 周 山 士 富 Discover

the charms of the three prefectures surrounding Japan’s sacred mountain Situated on the borders of Shizuoka and Yamanashi, Mt. Fuji is an exceptionally symmetrical cone which can also be seen from Kanagawa, home to Hakone and Kamakura. Since the area was designated a World Heritage Site, the list of tourismrelated activities has expanded even further. Here are some of the must-tries when you visit the area.

富士山 Mt.Fuji

長野県o

Nagan re Prefec tu

埼玉県a

S ait am re Prefec tu

山梨県shi

Yamana re Prefec tu

東京y都 o

Narita Airport 成田空港

Tok

Haneda Airport 羽田空港

静岡o県 ka

Shizu re Prefec tu

千葉県 a

Chib re Prefec tu

県 神奈川 awa Kanag re Prefec tu

SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE

YAMANASHI PREFECTURE

KANAGAWA PREFECTURE

Recognised for its tea production, Shizuoka is also well known for its wasabi (わさび, Japanese horseradish), strawberries and oranges. The scenic area of Nihondaira (日本平), a plateau found at the centre of the city, provides breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, the Japanese Southern Alps and Suruga Bay. Access from Tokyo: About 60min via Tokaido Shinkansen

Boasting numerous places of natural beauty, this prefecture is surrounded by mountain ranges that have been designated as national and quasi-national parks.

Home to the Fuji Five Lakes and the Mitake Shōsenkyō (御嶽昇仙峡), one of Japan’s most beautiful gorges, the landlocked region is also renowned for hiking, fishing and other sports. Access from Tokyo: 1h 49min via Chuo Line Limited Express

Located on the south east corner of the Kantō (関東) region, this prefecture is the perfect blend of natural and urban attractions. Kamakura City (鎌倉市) and the town of Hakone (箱根町 ) are perfect spots to visit during the warmer seasons to enjoy the summer foliage and soak in the famous hot springs. Access from Tokyo to Hakone: 1h 5min via Fukutoshin Line

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SUMMER PART//02 Mt. FUJI

SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE 「蔵屋鳴沢」お茶摘み体験

TO DO

[TEA PICKING EXPERIENCE — KURAYA NARUSAWA] Accounting for 45% of the nation’s green tea production, Shizuoka is tea heaven for those who enjoy green tea. The pleasures of tea do not simply lie with its taste and health benefits, as more visitors are experiencing the joy of tea leaf picking. At Kuraya Narusawa, you pay 1,200 - 1,300 yen (varies by seasons) for 1 hour of fun where you get to transform into a traditional tea-picker.

This also includes a tour of their processing facility and a cup of steaming ocha (お茶, green tea) at the end. Seasonal operating hours | Kuraya Narusawa | 410-2113 Izunokuni City +81 55-949-1208 | kuraya-narusawa.co.jp (JP only)

TO SEE 三島スカイウォーク

[MISHIMA SKYWALK] An exhilarating spot to view Mt. Fuji is the skywalk that opened in December 2015. It is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan. From here, you can view both the towering silhouette of Japan’s highest mountain and the breathtaking sight of its deepest bay, Suruga Bay. Depending on the time and season of your visit, you will get to see different sceneries unfold before you. There is also a viewing deck and a sky garden where seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year, making it a perfect place for photos.

9am – 5pm | Mishima Skywalk | 411-0012 Mishima, Sasahara Shinden 313 | mishima-skywalk.jp (JP only)

富士山しらす街道 しらすどんぶり

TO EAT

[FUJI SHIRASU ROAD — SHIRASU DON]

Shirasu (しらす, whitebait), a fish in its infancy from the sardine family, is almost exclusively caught in Suruga Bay on the Pacific coast of Honshū. This is why the best shirasu don can be found along this stretch of road, where up to 10 stores serve up their freshest catch atop a bowl of steaming Japanese rice. You can try it raw or boiled depending on your preference, and toppings usually include ground ginger and chopped chives.

Opening hours vary according to store | Tagonoura Fisheries Cooperative Associations 416-0937, Fuji, Maeda www.fujisan-kkb.jp/shirasu_kaido/ (JP only)

富士宮白糸の滝

TO SEE

[FUJINOMIYA SHIRAITO FALLS]

Found in the southwestern foothills of Mt. Fuji, this 150m wide cascade is ranked as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls.

The word shiraito (白糸) literally means white strings, which came about from the way spring water flows off the edge of the 20m high cliff in thin white streams. Summer is the best time to visit, as the winter snow melts from atop the volcano and adds to the volume of water. The Otodome Falls is also located a short 5 minutes away on foot.

Shiraito Falls | 418-0192 Fujinomiya, Kamiide fujinomiya.gr.jp/shiraito/ (JP only) WAttention Singapore

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YAMANASHI PREFECTURE 富士山世界遺産センター

TO SEE

[FUJISAN WORLD HERITAGE CENTER]

This brand new center aims to provide information about the significance of Mt. Fuji as a World Heritage site to the numerous tourists that visit every year. The North Hall serves as the general information center, where exhibitions introducing the mountain’s natural history and vicinity are held. In the South Hall, a large 3D model showcases the changing expressions of Mt. Fuji using lighting techniques. It also features an educational display known as Ochudo Way, a pilgrimage route that shows how people worship the mountain. Seasonal operating hours Fujisan World Heritage Center | 6663-1 Funatsu, Kawaguchiko-town +81 555-72-0259 | fujisan-whc.jp/en

吉田のうどん

[YOSHIDA’S UDON]

TO EAT

The city of Fujiyoshida (富士吉田市) is not just the gateway to Japan’s tallest mountain, but also the home of Yoshida Udon, a local take on the thick wheat flour noodles. An estimated 60 shops throughout the city serve their own unique variation of the dish, which features chewier and heartier noodles. Cabbage is a key point in the dish, and some places even serve them with horse meat. The broths also use pure spring water originating from the mountains. Pick up a Yoshida Udon Map as a guide to start your udon journey!

Fujiyoshida | www.city.fujiyoshida.yamanashi.jp/div/english/html/udon.html

富士急ハイランド

TO DO

[FUJI-Q HIGHLAND - AMUSEMENT PARK - ]

A popular theme park even amongst locals, this is not to be missed by thrill-seekers. Fujiyama, Dodonpa and Eejanaika are three of the major roller coasters in the park, the last of which holds the record for most number of inversions. The newest addition, Takabisha, offers the steepest drop at an angle of 121 degrees. Those looking for an unforgettable experience can enter the Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear, an elaborate haunted house. The family friendly park also has a Ferris wheel and a kid’s area with Thomas the Tank Engine themed attractions. Seasonal opening hours | Fuji-Q Highland | 403-0017, 5 Chome-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida | www.fujiq.jp/en

TO STAY ハイランドリゾート ホテル＆スパ

[HIGHLAND RESORT HOTEL & SPA ] The official hotel of the Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park, this hotel has both western-style and traditional Japanese rooms, and is located right at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Famous tourist attractions such as Lake Kawaguchiko and Kitaguchi Hongū Fuji Sengen Shrine (北口本宮冨士浅間神社) are all a stone’s throw away. The hotel itself also has public baths with natural hot spring water, and all guests who choose to stay here can enjoy free admission to the amusement park, Fujiyama Onsen and Fujiyama Museum. Highland Resort Hotel & Spa | 403-0017, 5-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida highlandresort.co.jp/english 18

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SUMMER PART//02 Mt. FUJI

KANAGAWA PREFECTURE 黒たまご茶屋

TO EAT

[BLACK EGG OF HAKONE]

Visitors to Ōwakudani (大涌谷, Great Boiling Valley) are most likely to smell the volcanic valley before they see it, as the area is covered in active sulphur vents and hot springs. The scenic site is also home to the well-known kuro-tamago (黒卵, black egg). The eggs turn black as a result of chemical reactions that are caused by boiling the eggs in spring water but remains safe to eat, and is even said to add 7 years to your life once consumed. Kurotamago Kan 4 | 1245 Sengokuhara, Ashigarashimo District | +81 46-084-9605 owakudani.com/index_e

TO SEE 箱根海賊船

[HAKONE SIGHTSEEING CRUISE] This sightseeing cruise connects three different ports around Lake Ashi, a crater lake that is well known for its view of Mt. Fuji. Every port offers a variety of distinctive sights and activities, while the change in seasons also provide visitors with ever-changing sceneries to admire. Many of the boats used on these cruises are designed to look like sailing warships.

One such ship, The Vasa, is modeled after a warship built by the king of Sweden in the early 17th century and features lavish decorations and even a pirate figure. 9.30am – 5.30pm | Lake Ashi | 250-0522 Lake Ashi, Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District hakone-kankosen.co.jp/foreign/en

酒匂川

[SAKAWAGAWA RIVER]

TO DO

This river is found on the north west of Kanagawa Prefecture and runs a course of 45km through the towns of Matsuda, Oimachi and Odawara. During summer, a popular pastime amongst locals is fishing for ayu (鮎, Japanese river trout), and starting 1 June this year, a total of 4,500kg of natural ayu have been released in the river for this purpose. Try your hand at catching these highly territorial fishes and enjoy your freshly caught meal by salting it lightly after barbequing it over an open fire.

Sakawagawa Fisheries Association Union | 250-0861 Odawara, Kuwahara, 862−2 +81 465-37-4277 | sakawagawa-gyokyou.jp (JP only)

ホテルグリーンプラザ箱根

[HOTEL GREEN PLAZA HAKONE]

TO STAY

Nestled among the luscious greenery of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, the hotel provides guests with an unbeatable view of the majestic Mt. Fuji.

Western-style rooms and Japanese rooms are available, and those who want the best of both can select the East Meets West room. The open-air baths use water from the Sengokuhara Onsen, one of Hakone’s 17 major hot springs. While both men and women’s baths offer spectacular views of the mountainous region, sake is served only at the women’s bath from 3pm to 7pm daily. Hotel Green Plaza Hakone | 1244-2 Sengokuhara Ashigarashimo District, 250-0631 | Non-hotel guest hours Fri–Tue 1pm – 12am, Wed-Thu 3pm – 12am | www.hgp.co.jp/language/english/sp/index.html

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PART//03

R E M M U S

♥ 道 海 北 の 夏

さん く た 所 見 ！ い な ゃ 冬だけじ

札幌 O R O P SAP

Sapporo Summer Festival, Sapporo TV Tower, Odori Park

Famous as a winter wonderland, Hokkaido blossoms into a summer paradise that makes it an ideal vacation spot for couples, friends and family.

Located on the western side of Hokkaido, Sapporo is filled with amazing activities, delicious dishes and spectacular sights. Home to nearly 2 million people, it is the 4th largest city in Japan as well as the capital and largest city of Japan’s northern island.

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モエレ沼公園

Moerenuma Park Designed by Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi, this former waste-treatment plant is an expansive park located in the northeast of central Sapporo. Filled with geometric designs, the park’s centerpiece is a glass pyramid nicknamed “Hidamari”, or “sunny spot”, which houses a museum, restaurant, shop and roof park.

Open throughout the year | 7am - 10pm | Moerenumakoen 1-1, Higashi-ku, Sapporo moerenumapark.jp/english/

SUMMER PART//03 Hokkaido

さっぽろ夏まつり（北海盆踊り）

二条市場

Sapporo Summer Matsuri

Nijō Market

[Hokkai-Bon-Odori]

Found in central Sapporo, this fish market is more than 100 years old and a popular spot with tourists. There are over 50 different vendors selling a wide variety of fresh seafood ranging from crabs and uni (ウニ, sea urchin) to Hokkaido melon and other produce. Unlike other markets in Japan, the vendors are open to friendly haggling as long as you are reasonable and polite. Open throughout the year | 7am - 6pm | Minami 3 Higashi 2, Chuo-ku, Sapporo | +81 11-222-5308

ジンギスカン

Jingisukan

This traditional natsu matsuri (夏祭り, summer festival) that occurs every year, attracts more than a million visitors to its immense beer garden and festival grounds. Here you will be able to experience the Hokkai-BonOdori dance where anyone can participate in by simply following the person in front of you. 20 July – 17 August | Odori Park, Sapporo Tanukikoji Shopping District, Susukino District | +81 11-281-6400 sapporo-natsu.com (JP only)

One of Hokkaido’s signature dishes, Jingisukan is a grilled mutton barbecue prepared on special hot plates that is placed directly on the table. It is simple yet delicious fare. The lamb is tender and full of flavour and is further complemented by fresh onions and cabbages harvested straight off Hokkaido’s farms. Daily 5pm 1am | Jingisukan Daruma Rokuyon, Minami 6 jo Nishi Chuo-ku, Sapporo | +81 11-533-8929 best.miru-kuru.com/daruma

ワイルドな乗馬体験

Horse Riding

大通公園

Take a ride through the thick, green forest that surrounds the mountainous Jozankei area with Wild Mustang’s. 35 minutes from downtown Sapporo, the woodsy westernstyle stable provides adventurous horseback trail rides suitable for riders of all levels — beginners get to warm up on the track before heading out to the trails.

Daily 10am - Sunset | No. 114 Toyama, Minami-ku, Sapporo | +81 11-596-5040 www.2002nit.com/wm/

Odori Park An oasis of greenery in the middle of the city’s business district, the park is a calm, relaxing space that is home to over 4,000 trees and the Sapporo TV Tower. The park’s information center provides free telephone interpretation service in English, Chinese and Korean and is a great spot for a picnic lunch. Open throughout the year +81 11-251-0438 | Odorinishi, Sapporo sapporo-park.or.jp/odori/en/

もいわ山

Mt. Moiwa

フルーツ狩り

Fruit Picking

Considered a sacred mountain by the Ainu people, Mt. Moiwa offers a stunning panoramic view of Hokkaido’s capital, Ishikari Bay in the Sea of Japan and Shokanbetsu Peak. This is a popular spot with couples as the night view, railings filled with “love padlocks” and “Bell of Happiness”, found in the center of the viewing platform, create an incredibly romantic atmosphere.

Open throughout the year | Fushimi 5-chome 3-7, Chuo-ku, Sapporo +81 11-561-8177 | moiwa.sapporo-dc.co.jp (JP only)

A popular activity amongst tourists and locals, fruit picking season starts in June with strawberries and is followed by melons, blueberries, cherries and grapes. Farms usually charge between 800-1,500 yen for a session depending on the fruit. Early June – Late October | 8am – 6pm | Jozankei Waiwai Farm Sasaki Jozankei 832, Minami-ku, Sapporo +85 11-598-4050 | sasaki-kajuen.jp WAttention Singapore

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富良野 O N A FUR

The flower garden of Hokkaido, Furano is well-known for their lavender, poppies, lilies and sunflower fields.

This picturesque countryside lies in the center of the northern island. Filled with an abundance of natural wonders, it is an especially popular spot for tourists who love fruits and flowers in summer. From wineries and cheese factories that provide tasting and tours to museums and TV drama sets, Furano is rich in tradition and modern culture.

Every summer, Farm Tomita bursts into a kaleidoscope of colour. The sprawling landscape is a sight to behold with its nine different seasonal gardens and more than 10 varieties of flowers. Farm Tomita is such a famous site that it even has a season-exclusive JR Furano Line station — Lavender Farm Station — that only operates during the summer months.

Open throughout the year | Farm Tomita | Kisen Kita 15-go, Nakafurano-cho, Sorachi-gun | +81 167-39-3939 |

メ

メロングル

dnes Melon Ma

farm-tomita.co.jp/en

イト

熱気球フラ

lloon Hot Air Ba

s

グ

ラフティン

Rafting

Across the road from Farm Tomita’s Traditional Lavender Field is the Tomita Melon House. Here is where you will find all sorts of desserts made with fresh melons harvested from Farm Tomita. Be sure to stop here and rest after exploring the flower fields with a sweet, creamy treat from the menu such as Melon Soft Serve (from ¥320), Smoothie Melon (from ¥400) and Melon Cream Puff (¥270).

One of Furano’s most popular activities, rafting is a fun and exciting sport for everyone. The snowmelt in spring provides the Sorachi River with clear rushing water which creates tumultuous rapids to ride down on a sunny afternoon. For those looking for a gentler exercise, light downstream paddling is also available.

April – October | Sportpia Furano | Kitanomine Terminal LB Kitanomine-cho Furano-shi | +81 167-22-1935 spfurano.com/en

One of the most popular competitive sports in Furano, hot air ballooning is a great way to see the rolling countryside from a bird’s eye view. Each flight takes passengers 40 metres into air and daily rides are available throughout the clear, sunny days of summer.

1 June - 10 October | Asobiya | 4746 Gakudensanku, Furano-shi +81 167-22-0534 | asobiya.jp/ac/eng

富良野・美瑛ノロッコ号

Furano Biei Norokko Train This unique open-air observation train usually operates from early June to late September. There are three round trips between Asahikawa or Biei and Furano. The round trip between Asahikawa and Furano takes 1 hour and 40 minutes while the other two connect Biei and Furano and takes 50 minutes. For train schedule, www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/ttable/06.pdf 22

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SUMMER PART//03 Hokkaido

BIEI 美瑛

Charming farms, quaint sights and breathtaking views.

Surrounded by gentle hills and vast fields is the cosy town of Biei. This hilly town is extremely bicyclefriendly with many places of interest within cycling distance. The Patchwork Road takes its name from the colours of the various farms along the road which make it look like a patchwork quilt. This beautiful scenic drive provides many opportunities for vibrant photos and boasts of many famous sites en route.

Kamikawa-gun, Biei good-hokkaido.info/en/biei-furano/2/

四季彩の丘 SHIKISAI NO OKA

[PANORAMIC FLOWER GARDENS ]

A W A K I ASAH

旭川

パッチワークの丘 PATCHIWAKU NO OKA

[ HILL OF PATCHWORK ]

Spanning a massive 15 hectares, the panoramic flower garden stretches far beyond what the eye can see.

The name of the garden is a play on the words shikisai (色 彩, colour) and shiki (四季, four seasons) – it is inspired by the different colours the garden takes on throughout the year.

Visit the Alpaca farm too.

June – September | 8.30am – 6pm | Panoramic Flower Gardens - No.3 Aza Shinsei, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun +81 166-95-2758 shikisainooka.jp/english

青い池 AOI IKE [ BLUE POND] Found outside Shirogane Onsen, the Blue Pond is named after the deep blue colour of the water which is the result of the natural minerals dissolved in it. The serene pond was created as a counter measure against the potential eruption of the nearby Mt. Tokachidake and is a magical sight to behold.

Hokkaido’s second largest city is filled with quiet, pleasant surprises. らーめん山頭火本店

[SANTOUKA RAMEN MAIN STORE]

旭山動物園 [ASAHIYAMA ZOO] The most famous tourist spot in the city, the zoological garden is located just outside of central Asahikawa City.

Here you can watch penguins “soar” through the water in the penguin pool’s glass tunnel, marvel at seals as they swim through the “Marine Way”, or get up close and personal with the polar bears and wolves through the small glass dome in their enclosures. There are also native Hokkaido wildlife such as deer, eagles and cranes.

Open throughout the year | Higashi Asahikawacho Kuranuma, Asahikawa, Hokkaido | +81 166-36-1104 www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/ asahiyamazoo (JP only)

While Santouka Ramen is now a household name in Singapore, it has its roots in Asahikawa. Their specialty is the Shio Ramen (¥820) with its handmade white tonkostu soup, red pickled plum and tender char shu. Other must-tries are the Shoyu Ramen (¥820) and Toroniku Ramen (¥1,130). Daily, 11am-10pm | Asahikawa Honten (Main Store) Sasaki Bldg 1F, 348-3, 1jodori 8 chome, Asahikawa | +81 166-25-3401 santouka.co.jp/en

大雪さんろく祭り

[TAISETSU SANROKU MATSURI ] You know it is the height of summer when Asahikawa’s largest nightlife district, Sanroku, closes its main streets for a week to celebrate its natsu matsuri. The parties are loud and vibrant, filled with parades, dance competitions, live music and popup stores that sell everything from yakitori and grilled seafood to ice cold beer and sake. 4-6 Aug | 3 Jo Hondori 6-chome 2-4 Jō Hondori 5-6 chome tate-tsu www.asahikawa-tourism.com/asahikawa/asahikawa_ summer/san_roku/san_roku.html WAttention Singapore

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知床

釧路

O K O T E R I H S

O R I H S U K 釧路湿原国立公園 [KUSHIRO SHITSUGEN

NATIONAL PARK]

Explore the dreamy “town of mist” situated in southeastern Hokkaido Kushiro Shitsugen National Park is Japan’s largest wetland and marsh habitat. It is one of the few places where you can see the endangered tanchōzuru ( Japanese cranes) in their natural environment. Summer is the best time to observe the cranes and their newly hatched chicks.

As a port town facing the Pacific Ocean, Kushiro is also the birthplace of robatayaki (炉端焼き, fireside cooking). This style of cooking makes full use of the abundant fresh seafood available and local Kushiro charcoal to create heartwarming grilled delicacies such as buttered hotate (ほたて, scallops) and oysters.

Discover the beauty of unspoiled natural prehistoric ecosystems 炉端焼き [ROBATAYAKI]

Shiretoko is also known as a “waterfall kingdom” for her many waterfalls.

Some of them include the Kamuiwakka hot falls which gives off steam; Furepe, also known as “Maiden’s Tears”; and Oshinkoshin which flows beside a road before dropping off into the sea.

Open throughout the year | Shiretoko National Park | Shiretokomisaki, Rausu, Menashi District

釧路和商市場 [KUSHIRO WASHO MARKET] This historic portside market has over 60 shops and also where you will find the famed “Katte Don”. This unique dish requires you to first purchase a bowl of rice before exploring the shops and picking your favourite ingredients as toppings. Apart from fresh seafood the market also sells fruits, vegetables and other foods. Mon-Sat, 8am - 6pm | 13-25 Kuroganecho, Kushiro-shi | +81 154-22-3226 washoichiba.com

釧路川カヌー体験 [KUSHIRO RIVER

CANOE TOURING] Get a closer look at the swamps and marshland by spending a casual afternoon canoeing up and down the winding Kushiro River. It can take up to 4 hours to explore the length of the river with a professional guide who will ensure your safety and help you enjoy the marsh’s highlights. Lakeside-Toro Summer operating hours 9am – 5pm Lake Toro ~ Hosooka estimated 9km course – Adults ¥7,000 Child ¥3,500 www.shitsugen.com

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A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, Shiretoko Kokuritsu Kōen (Shiretoko National Park) is located on the Shiretoko Peninsula.

Prized for her five magical lakes that are surrounded by primeval forests, it takes about an hour to trek around the lake with a guide.

Cruising by the Five Lake Cliff

SUMMER PART//03 Hokkaido

I R I H S A B A

網走

知床国立公園 [SHIRETOKO NATIONAL PARK]

Experience the culture and history of the largest town on the Okhotsk Coast

オホーツク流氷館 [OKHOTSK RYUHYO MUSEUM]

Severe Cold Activity Room

While Abashiri is best known for as a tourist site for ryūhyō (流氷 , ice drifts) viewing in winter, in summer there are also a number of activities for you to try such as horseback trekking, fruit picking, cycling and golf.

©Kushiro Nature Conservation Office, Ministry of the Environment Government of Japan

Head to Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum on Mt. Tento to see, touch and experience real ice floats even in the middle of summer in the Severe Cold Activity Room. The museum also houses an observatory and a dome-shaped audio-visual hemisphere known as “Astrovision”.

Open throughout the year | Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum | 245-1, Tentozan, Abashiri, Hokkaido +81 152-43-5951 ryuhyokan.com

400 inches 5 surface panel theater

博物館網走監獄 [ABASHIRI PRISON MUSEUM] Built around 110 years ago, these maximum-security prison buildings were in use until 1984 when they were moved to create the current open-air museum.

There are more than 10 carefully preserved buildings, each detailing a part of the prison’s rich and terrifying history.

The prison has also been designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.

Open throughout the year | 1-1 Yobito Abashiri city | +81 152-45-2411 kangoku.jp/world

ベアウォッチクルーズ [BEAR WATCHING CRUISE] At Shiretoko’s main town, Utoro, there are many sightseeing cruises that will take you all the way or halfway up to Cape Shiretoko. These cruises are the easiest way to view the tall cliffs and waterfalls that make up the peninsula’s coastline.

One of the more unique cruises available is the bear watching cruise. The higuma (ヒグマ, brown bear) are often seen with their cubs eating and playing along the shore. The cruise takes about 2 hours and if you are very lucky you might also see killer whales and dolphins. Shiretoko Yuransen www.shiretoko-kazu.com

網走湖温泉郷 [HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE] On the shores of Lake Abashiri lies the Abashiri Hot Springs Village.

Guests can relax after a long day’s hike around Abashiri and soothe their minds and bodies while taking in the view of the lake with the setting sun as a backdrop. The water is rich in nutrients which is great for pampering your skin.

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S Y A D 10 RSE

MONBETSU

ASAHIKAWA Check p.23

Our family trip started from 28 April to 7 May 2016. We were all going to Hokkaido for the first time and we were looking forward to see the sakura in full bloom, picturesque landscapes and delicious local food.

BIEI

Check p.23, 26

OTARU

FURANO

Check p.27

SAPPORO

NISEKO

Check p.27

LAKE TOYA

Check p.22, 26

KUSHIRO Check p.24

Check p.20-21, 26

Written & design by Chew Yan Qiao

Day 02 SAPPORO

Check p.25

Check p.26

IN H O K

DAY 1 [SAPPORO]: We arrived at New Chitose Airport — the weather was about 13°C. We took the Airport Limousine Bus — Chuo Bus instead of the train as the drop-off point was closer to our accommodation. After resting for a while, we took public transport (train & bus) to our first spot, Moerenuma Park.

Check p.24-25

ABASHIRI

TAKINOUE

OT HUE C H E W IE S C L E D O M K A ID O W IT H Day 01 NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT SAPPORO

SHIRETOKO

Check p.26

RUSUTSU Check p.27

Check p.27

NOBORIBETSU Check p.27

DAY 2 [SAPPORO]: Morning walk through Nijō market, surrounded by fresh seafood, souvenir stores and plenty of izakaya and had an authentic local breakfast. Next we checked out the sakura in full bloom near Tanukikoji shopping street before going shopping. We then visited Shiroi Koibito Park and its chocolate factory, where we enjoyed learning about the history of the brand, the fantasy-like flower garden and sampled the rich, creamy mixed ice cream.

Day 03 SAPPORO/ BIEI Day 04 BIEI/ FURANO Day 05 TAKINOUE/ MONBETSU

DAY 3 [SAPPORO » BIEI, 3hrs~]: Picked up our rental car and started our 3 hour drive from Sapporo to Biei — our next destination. Before arriving at our hotel in Shirogane, we took the time to visit the Blue Pond that was nearby.

DAY 4 [BIEI » FURANO, 50mins]: We made a reservation through asobiya.jp for a hot air balloon experience early this morning but due to cold weather, it was canceled. Our next stop was Farm Tomita for their seasonal flowers, lavender ice cream and melon bun before heading to Hitsuji no oka, a 2012 Michelin star restuarant famous for their jingisukan-style mutton, for lunch out in the woods. We also tried the famous melon ice cream at Popura Farm, Nakafurano for dessert.

DAY 5 [BIEI » TAKINOUE, 2hrs 40mins » MONBETSU, 30mins]: We made our way to Takinoue Shibazakura Park for its moss phlox but we were too early to see the blooms (which flower in mid-May). We continued upwards to Monbatsu for lunch and visited Okhotsk Ryuhyo Park (best season to visit is during winter.)

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WAttention Singapore

A shrine at Shirogane Hotspring, Biei

SUMMER PART//03 Hokkaido DAY 6 [BIEI » RUSUTSU, 4hrs~]: Our hour-long drive towards our next stay in Rusutsu gave us the opportunity to see lots of gorgeous scenery. For lunch, we made our way to Kinoko no Ōkoku (Mushroom Kingdom) Main branch which sells mushroom miso soup and Mushroom Tempura. Finally, we reached our Sakura Chalet hidden in the woods and close to Rusutsu Resort Amusement Park.

DAY 8 [RUSUTSU » NISEKO, 40mins » NOBORIBETSU, 2hrs]: We started our day early travelling to LUPICIA Boutique in Niseko, for their Morning Market. We tried out the potato salad, bread and vegetable soup. We continued on to Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) for their hot springs and demon statues, and relaxed at the Oyunuma River Natural Footbath.

Day 06 BIEI/ RUSUTSU

DAY 7 [RUSUTSU » LAKE TOYA, 30mins]: We explored Lake Toya for the day. We visited an interesting Thai concept cafe for lunch — Lakeside Cafe Jalibu. Then we used the Uzuzan Ropeway to go up Mt. Uzuzan and took an amazing shot of Lake Toya. On the way back, we stopped by Lake Hill Farm that is famous for its gelato ice cream.

Day 09 RUSUTSU/ OTARU/ SAPPORO

Day 07 LAKE TOYA Day 08 NISEKO/ NOBORIBETSU

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DRIVING IN

HOKKAIDO

Day 10 SAPPORO/ NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT

DAY 9 [RUSUTSU » OTARU, 1hr 40mins » SAPPORO, 50mins]: Saying good bye to Rusutsu, we proceeded to our last stop, Otaru. We boarded the Otaru Canal Sightseeing Cruise to learn more about the history from our Japanese-speaking tour guide (English pamplets are available). Caught glimpses of sakura, shibazakura and tulips all around the area. We had lunch at a historical stone building near the canal — Otaru Canal Shokudo (Cafeteria) that has a variety of seafood and souvenir stores. After Otaru, we headed back to Sapporo for our last night. Dinner was at JEWELS restaurant, on top of Mt. Moiwa which gave us a spectacular night scene while enjoying our meal.

DAY 10 [SAPPORO » NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT]: Our last meal in Sapporo before heading back to Singapore via New Chitose Domestic Airport was an irresistable buta don from Butadonmeijin.

Sea urchin and perilla spaghetti, JEWELS

The car GPS provides five different types of routes for you to choose from: ・Recommended [ 推奨 ] ・★ Energy Saving [ 省エネ ] ・Toll Road Priority [ 有料優先 ] ・General Road Priority [ 一般優先 ] ・Distance Priority [ 距離優先 ] ★ Choose Energy Saving as it brings you to

interesting small roads and helps save on road tolls.

Here are two handy words to remember when topping up your fuel at the petrol station: Mantan (満タン, full tank) - to fill up the tank fully Genkin (現金, cash) or Kaado (カード, credit card) 2-wheel Maneuver is an eco-friendly way of driving as it allows you to save more fuel.

However, the 4-wheel Maneuver is highly recommended if you are driving during winter or on a slippery road for better control.

Remember to return the car with a full tank.

If you are going in a large group, consider renting a bigger car with more space i.e.

8-seater for five people with lots of luggage.

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BG-Pattern.pdf 2 3/6/2016 11:04:32 AM

TOUCH BASE WITH

HOKKAIDO

IN SINGAPORE HOKKAIDO GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

This new office, which opened on 14 Jan 2016, serves as the ASEAN office to promote the Hokkaido brand further in terms of foreign tourism and food exports.

Currently managed by four officers, the office is an archive of information brochures, maps and travel guides that anyone can drop by to take. The officers themselves are also well-versed in helping potential visitors with their enquiries, as almost 80% of those they receive day-today are tourism-related.

While the Hokkaido brand still remains strong, there are still lesser known areas that the ASEAN office hopes to raise awareness of. They are working to share more information about the charms of

North and East Hokkaido and hope that more visitors will travel to these places.

Mr. Horiuchi, Managing Director of the Hokkaido ASEAN Office, says that the opening of the new Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hokkaido is an exciting move that will increase the number of tourists both internationally and domestically.

Together with the launch of Scoot Airlines’ flights between Singapore and Hokkaido starting in October, they are also expecting an increase in import of produce. With more and shorter flights to and from Hokkaido, Singaporeans can look forward to buying fresher and more varieties of delicious Hokkaido food products right here on our sunny island!

Explore the Wonderland Eastern Hokkaido

16 Raes Quay, #B1-32A, Hong Leong Building Tel. 6507-3590 | Email: asean@hokkaidogov.sg | www.hokkaido-asean.org

For the latest news and updates on Japan,

FOLLOW US @

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AD_HOKKAIDO_SIGHTSEEING_BUS_vol33.pdf 1 13/6/2016 4:19:40 PM

28

WAttention Singapore

AD_CRAB_ONLINE_JYUGANI.pdf 1 6/6/2016 10:24:01 AM WAttentionSG WAttention.com.sg

Writer’s profile: Lam Ying Wai – Wants to eat her way across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Slightly obsessed with Rilakkumas; she has adopted 14 of them to date and is always looking to expand the family.

VOL.12 | SITE-SEEING

EXPLORE JAPAN’S PREFECTURE HAKODATE HOKKAIDO

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, 金森赤レンガ倉庫

Old-fashioned trams, 箱館ハイカラ号

Uni don, ウニ丼

Sakura trees in Matsumae Castle, 松前城

Night view from Mt. Hakodate, 函館山

Mt. Komagatake, 北海道駒ケ岳

HAKODATE – SURPRISES AT EVERY TURN Hakodate, which serves as the southern gateway to Hokkaido, was one of the first ports to open up to international trade under the 1854 Kanagawa Treaty.

Much of the architecture consisting of brick churches and wooden buildings showcases the foreign influence is especially prominent in the Motomachi area and at Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, the first commercial warehouse in Hakodate .

The old-fashioned trams that run through the city greatly enhance the feeling of nostalgia as you travel around the area .

A popular attraction at the Hakodate Asaichi (朝市, morning market) is ika tsuri (イカ釣り, squid fishing). Hakodate is a treasure trove of seafood including uni (ウニ, sea urchin), hotate (ホタテ, scallops) and kegani (毛ガニ, hairy crab).

Uni Murakami, a sea urchin specialty restaurant, processes them without preservatives for an uni don (ウニ丼) that bursts

with flavour and freshness

.

Mt. Hakodate (函館山) is home to one of the best night views in Japan. Accessible by ropeway, the best time to drop by to take in the sights is right after sunset .

If you are interested in making day trips, Matsumae Castle (松前城) is an ideal place to visit, especially in spring, as more than 10,000 sakura trees bloom during this period .

An hour away by the JR Hakodate line, Ōnuma Kōen (大沼公園, Ōnuma Park) has picturesque, island-studded lakes that reflect the majestic active volcano Mt. Komagatake (北海道駒ケ岳, Hokkaido Komagatake) .

For those looking to soak in an onsen after a day of exploring, book a room facing the ocean at the Yunokawa Resort area (湯の川温泉, Yunokawa Onsen). Some of the rooms come with a private bath so you can enjoy a dip in your personal tub while taking in the spectacular views.

Sapporo

Hakodate

JR Hokuto Limited Express 3hr ¥8,830 (approx. SDG$109.61~) Tokyo

Hakodate JR Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen 4hr ¥23,000 (approx. SDG$285.51~)

Hakodate Airport 函館空港

Hokkaido 北海道

Hakodate 函館

New Chitose Airport 新千歳空港

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29

L U IN F T H SG G O L E D D A PART//04

K K HO

s Start from

ル ー ポ ガ シン ン イ 北海道

16

st ly ‘ 1 Ju

Seafood Ramen $18.50

らーめん 山頭火

RAMEN SANTOUKA Famous for their Shio Ramen, the winner of Ramen Revolution 2014 has a new addition to their line up — Seafood Ramen.

Using a rich, creamy tonkotsu soup and seafood essence as its base, the ramen is topped with an abundance of seafood that is sure to please any seafood lover.

Their menu also includes dishes made with Grade A quality, sweet and fragrant Hokkaido rice such as Nanatsuboshi and Yumepirika. Must tries include their Ikura Bowl and Combo. Do not forget to pair your meal with a drink from their Hokkaido selection. Their top three selection includes Hokkaido Sake Maruta, mellow Kitano Nishiki and vintage Hizo Junmai.

Hiyashi Chuka (Cold Noodle) $15

Kitano Nishiki

Seafood Ramen ..............................................................$18.50 Shio Ramen......................................................................$13.50 Salmon Roe Rice Bowl ......................................................... $12 21 Cuppage Road, Cuppage Terrace | 6235-1059 Mon-Thu 12pm - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5.30pm 11.30pm (L.O. 11pm), Fri 12pm - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5.30pm - 12am (L.O. 11.30pm), Sat 12pm - 12am (L.O. 11.30pm), Sun 12pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

30

WAttention Singapore

5-star Hokkaido Rice The Central #02-76, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street | 6224-0668 11am - 10pm (L.O. 9.45pm)

www.santouka.co.jp/en

PART//04 Delightful Hokkaido in SG

HIMONOYA

ひもの屋

Fattier, juicier and meatier than the usual Hokke, Himonoya’s wellloved Shima-Hokke is tender and chewy with a light salty and smoky flavour — as any himono (干物, sun-dried food) dish should be.

The restaurant also pays particular attention to the size of the Shima-Hokke, careful to import only the rarer, larger-sized fish.

To complement their dishes, Himonoya serves sweet, aromatic Nanatsuboshi rice and the award-winning Otokoyama sake from Asahikawa, Hokkaido.

PROMOTION Present WAttention magazine (or a picture) to enjoy the following; Hokkaido Jumbo Himono Hokke

.......................... $29.90 (U.P. $ 41. 80) Otokoyama sake (720ml) x 2

Robertson Walk #02-14, 11 Unity Street 6235-9110 ¦ Daily 6pm – 1am Singapore Himonoya singaporehimonoya.com

Otoro sushi x 2...... $ 7. 80 (U.P. $9. 80) Chutoro sushi x 2 ... $5. 80 (U.P. $7. 80)

(U.P. $ 4 . 80) ............................. $100 ($59.90 each) Salmon sushi x 2 ...$3. 80

YAMAKAWA SUPER

HOKKAIDO IZAKAYA

山川スーパー

北海道酒場

Hokkaido Wagyu Roast Beef...............................$25 Chicken Karaage Hokkaido style .........................$6 Hokkaido Potato Salad ..$9 Hokkaido Cucumber with Salted Konbu Seaweed.......$5 A popular haunt amongst sake lovers in Singapore, this Japanese casual bar not only serves up a wide variety of sake but a palatable menu to go with them.

Amongst the many goodies you will find at the store, three must-tries are Furano Wine Chocolate ($13.80), Furano Melon Chocolate with White Wine ($13.80) and Hokkaido Fresh Milk ($6.60).

The Hokkaido Wagyu Roast Beef has meaty slices of umami-rich wagyu served with sliced potatoes and fresh vegetables, and their seafood is imported from Hokkaido three times a week, ensuring maximum freshness and seasonal variety.

The chocolates are rich and burst with flavour with every bite while the fresh and creamy 100% Hokkaido milk is perfect on its own, with coffee or used in cooking.

95 Tanjong Pagar Road | 6221-7118 ¦ Mon-Sat 11.30 - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm), 6pm - 12am (L.O. 11pm), Sun & PH 11.30 - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm), 6pm - 10.30pm (L.O. 9.30pm) Hokkaidoizakaya.sg

The Central #B1-28b | 6534-9518 ¦ Suntec City Tower2 #02-498/499 | 6341-9518 Daily 11am-10pm Yamakawa Super

HOKKAIDO RESTAURANT UMI HACHIKYO SG

北海道レストラン 海味 はちきょう SG

Formerly known as Hitsuji, the original Hokkaido jingiskan restaurant in Singapore its roots in one of Sapporo’s most popular restaurants – its namesake, Hachikyo.

Tsukko-meshi (Hokkaido local Ikura rice-bowl) .....................................$30 Hokkaido-Kaisen-Don (Lunch only) ............................................$19 Hokkaido Premium Jingiskan Set

Also on their menu is the Tsukko-meshi which is a variation of their sister restaurant’s famous ikura don. It uses the same fresh Hokkaido ikura (いくら, salmon roe) served atop heartwarming bowls of fluffy Yumepikira rice.

(Special fillet , special loin, lamb chops, mushrooms and vegetables set) .........$65

The local menu was created by Hokkaido natives, now has more seafood and is prepared by a well-trained chef to ensure that this is the closest you can get to the authentic taste of local cuisine from Japan’s northern island.

Follow us on

Overflowing ikura don available at Sapporo branch only .

They serve fresh, juicy tender cuts of lamb and air flown Hokkaido vegetables and seafood, the restaurant that are barbecued over jingiskan tabletop grills specially imported from Japan.

65 Circular Road | 6221-3789 Lunch Mon-Fri 12pm - 2am Dinner Mon-Sat 6pm - 12pm Closed Sun the-hitsuji-club.com hitsuji_singapore

WAttention Singapore

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PART//04 Delightful Kokkaido in SG

SNAFFLE’S

MA MAISON

スナッフルス PROMOTION Mention WAttention for

RAMEN & TONKATSU

マ・メゾン らーめんととんかつ PROMOTION Mention WAttention for

All items 10% OFF

$9.90 Tonkatsu (U.P. $12) with order of ramen

* Till end of August 2016

Hokkaido Cheese Ramen ..........................................$17.80 Aged Pork Loin Cutlet Set Meal (150g) ............ $20.80 Gyoza ...............................$5.80

Catch Cake.........$3.80/pc Soft Cream Matcha ........... ................................$4.50/pc Using only fresh ingredients from Hokkaido such as milk, eggs and a specially crafted cream cheese, Snaffle’s signature Catch Cakes are light, fluffy and rich in flavour. They also serve smooth and milky Soft Cream made with the same Hokkaido milk that is available in three different flavours: Matcha, Original and mix.

Plaza Singapura #B2-56 | 6884-6077 Tanjong Pagar #02-85A | 6220-5680

BAIKOHKEN

Snaffles Singapore

梅光軒

RAMEN RESTAURANT

An original special created and served only by Ma Maison, this unique Cheese Ramen is made with a creamy tonkotsu soup that is generously topped with rich Gouda cheese from Tokachi, Hokkaido. It is a ladies favourite because of its healthy, fat-free soup base and mild, pasta-like flavour.

If you have space for more, try their juicy gyoza and pork loin cutlets.

Capitol Piazza, #B2-51, 13 Stamford road 6384-6211 ¦ Mon-Sun 11.30am - 10pm mamaisonsg

BENTOSS COME-IN HOKKAIDO

PROMOTION Mention WAttention for

Shoyu Ramen .......................$11.50

FREE Green Tea Service

Miso Butter Corn Ramen... $15.50 Add on Gyoza & Chashu Don (with any ramen order)...........................$7.60 Using noodles shipped straight from Hokkaido, this establishment has stood by their traditional recipe for 35 years.

The savoury broth pairs well with springy noodles, while the chāshū (チャーシュー, braised pork slices) is tender and has just the right amount of marbling.

Takashimaya Food Hall B2-01-04 6235-3483 | Daily 10am - 9.30pm (L.O. 9pm) | ONE KM #01-67/68 6702-2694 | Daily 11.30am - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm) Baikohken Ramen Restaurant

ECOPARADISE

ベントス

* Till end of August 2016

Tenzaru Soba .......... $14.80 Kanimeshi Ju .............$15.80 Salmon Kaisen Ju .... $23.80 Tucked away in a cosy corner of Liang Court, Bentoss makes its mouthwatering bentos using mostly fresh ingredients from Hokkaido.

Their most popular bentos include Tenzaru Soba, a tempura and soba combo; Kanimeshi Ju, crabmeat over rice topped with ikura; and Salmon Kaisen Ju, fresh salmon over rice topped with ikura. They also have vegetarian bento options available in-store.

Liang Court Shopping Centre #B1-50, 177 River Valley Road Daily 10am – 9pm aichifoods.sg

エコパラダイス

BAKE CHEESE TART

ベイクチーズタルト

Cheese Tart ........................... $3.50/piece $19.50/6 pieces Take some time to relax and rejuvenate yourself with a soothing and pampering session at Ecoparadise.

Their hot therapy room is infused with enzymes extracted from Hokkaido soil which helps to detox, destress and revitalize your mind and body.

They also offer Ecoparadise Water that is similar to ionized water and helps to keep your body hydrated.

The Sports Arena #02-01 | 6567-3593 Tampines Swimming Complex #01-06 | 6785-4815 Ecoparadise Singapore ecoparadise.com.sg

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WAttention Singapore

The cheese mousse used in the tarts is light yet rich and is a special blend of three different types of cream cheese — two from Hokkaido, one from France. The cookie crust is crunchy and fluffy, and perfectly sized for holding in the palm of your hand. These cheese tarts can be enjoyed warm, chilled or frozen.

The longer you chill it the more the mousse’s texture changes from airy to ice-cream-like.

ION Orchard #B4-33, 2 Orchard Turn | Daily 10am – 10pm bakecheesetart.com BAKE Cheese Tart

Niigata Jōetsu Fair

Eat your way through a wide array of homely dishes made with fresh vegetables harvested straight from Jōetsu’s fields.

r e m m u S u s t e Jō Specials Starts in JULY

omisushi.asia

ation visit www.t

For more inform

Jōetsu Sake Fair ➊ Seccyubai ➋ Ten-to-Chi

Honjyouzou

Jyunmai-Ginjyou

➌ Koshiji-no-Koubai

Energize yourself for the summer and celebrate “Doyo Ushi no Hi” (Day of the Eel) with a hearty serving of savoury unagi. From 7 to 27 July 2016.

MENU

➊

Cool down after a hot day with a glass of sake from Jōetsu and savour the unique taste from the top brewers in Niigata.

From 1 to 31 July 2016.

Unagi Promo

$15

うなぎロール

Unagi Roll

10

$

うなぎ天ぷらロール

Unagi Tempura Roll

➋

50% うな重

➌

OFF

Unajyu

24

$

(U.P. $48)

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)

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)

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

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

JAPAN

VOL.3 | SUMMER GUIDE

TRAVEL

PERFECT SEASONAL MOMENTS

& Beyond

Tambara Lavender Park

North Central

Presented by

玉原ラベンダーパーク

In winter, Tambara is a popular ski and snowboard resort for beginners, but come summer, it transforms into a flower heaven of 50,000 lavender shrubs.

The peak season for bloom is from mid-July to mid-August when the purple flowers blanket the ski slopes, which can be enjoyed from the ski lifts too.

北中部

Made up of the Chūbu, Tōhoku and Kantō regions, North Central Japan offers the advantage of beautiful nature unspoiled by urban development.

Narita Yume Bokujyo 成田ゆめ牧場

Also known as Narita Dream Dairy Farm, this sightseeing ranch located in Narita City of Chiba Prefecture is the largest sunflower park in the East Japan region. Over 78,000 sunflowers bloom across a field that covers an area of 35 hectares during summer.

Surugawan Bay Ferry Ride 駿河湾フェリー

This 65-minute boat trip brings you from the Shimizu Port to the Port of Toi on the west coast of the Izu Peninsula. If the skies are clear, you may be lucky enough to enjoy the spectacular view of Mount Fuji towering above the coastline.

Echigo Yuzawa 越後湯沢 This historic hot spring area is located in the southern-most part of Niigata Prefecture adjacent to Nagano and Gunma, and has baths in many ski resorts, hotels, public bath houses and train stations. There is even a sake bath where you can try prominent brands of locally brewed sake.

Classic Japan 初心者向け

Image: © Y.Shimizu © JNTO

The popular Osaka-KyotoTokyo travel route is ideal for the first-timer visiting Japan, covering famous cultural landmarks and well-known scenic sights.

Nabana-no-Sato なばなの里

Nishiki Market

This theme park is dedicated to flowers and one of the best family-oriented attractions in Mie Prefecture. Types of flowers on display change seasonally; up until July you will be treated to the sight of tulips, iris and hydrangea. The park’s winter illumination starting in late October is equally captivating.

Kyoto’s largest traditional food market, this is where you can find all the major ingredients that typically make up a Kyoto meal, including tsukemono (漬物, Japanese pickles), kyo-yasai (京野菜 , Kyoto vegetables) and fresh fish.

Knives and cookware are also sold here, giving it its namesake of “Kyoto’s Kitchen”.

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WAttention Singapore

錦市場

ing t s e er

gs t n i d n I Fin

ら 外国人か い 見た面白 ！ 日本語！！

in

W or d of th e d a y いち

ご

T o d a y ’s Learner:

え

一期一会 Form

Ichigo Ichie

こと わざ

諺

Proverb

型

Meaning 意味

time and “Ichie” “Ichigo” means life opportunity or means one time overb, which pr is Th . ter un enco time experience/ life a in ce means “on ginally used at ori s wa opportunity”, Edo period. in the tea ceremonies

今どき の言葉

Today’s Broken Japanese

爆買い Baku

ga

Evelyn Tan

i

The origin of this term is hako gai, 箱買 い or otona gai, 大人買い. In the literal sense, hako gai means “purchase box”, where you actually buy a 12-piece box

This is similar to the modern acronym YOLO (you only live once), urging you to seize the day and take risks as you may not have another chance.

However, the Japanese term carries a deeper sense of solemnity, purpose and ritual compared to the more flippant nature of YOLO. Ichigo ichie thus also highlights the need to devote your utmost effort in planning or doing something.

07

VOL.

How to use

from Singapore

In tea ceremony, ichigo ichie describes the need to treat guests with true sincerity as the same meeting will never happen again. In other words, this proverb stresses the importance of treasuring each moment or meeting in life.

Pronounciation 発音

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).

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

いち

Japanese Language 一期一会の心

Ichigo Ichie

Mind

Dating back to the Edo period, this term was originally used at tea ceremonies.

The tea server always tries to make the best tea for the guests so that they can enjoy the ichigo ichie moment. This Japanese philosophy eventually led to the Japanese concept of omotenashi.

•Enjoy every encounter and enjoy the precious moment •No moment is the same •Live each day fully as if it was your last

The baku in baku gai means “explosion”. It is used to refer to bulk purchases and was inspired

by Chinese tourists who would often purchase 10-100 of the same products at once, such as 50 bottles of Shiseido face toners or 30 Panasonic electrical eyebrow shavers. They take tourist coaches to the shops or department stores and then buy tons of items within an hour or so. After they finish their baku gai the shops look empty, as if after a storm.

set. Otona gai is similar but its direct meaning is “shopping like an adult”.

Both terms refer to purchases that you could not afford as a child but can now buy in bulk or even complete collections when you become an adult. Now the term includes situations where you can buy in large amounts without worrying about the price. When purchasing the same sneaker design with two different colours at once you would say, “Sneaker otona gai shita (I did buy sneakers like an adult)?”

箱買い ＝ 大人買い ＜ 爆買い hako ga i

otona

ga i

baku ga

i

Illustration credit: www.irasutoya.com

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WAttention Singapore

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37

NIPPON HERITAGE explorer

Presented by

VOL.5 | SITE-SEEING

HIROSHIMA PREFECTURE

広島県

宮島 厳島神社 大鳥居 , Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Hiroshima ( 広島) literally means “Broad Island”. The prefecture was once divided into the Aki province and Bingo province. Its capital, Hiroshima City ( 広島市), is the largest city in the Chūgoku region (中国地方) of western Honshū (本州). While the city is known to be the first in the world to be targeted by a nuclear weapon during World War II, it has since been rebuilt and now stands as a City of Peace at the initiative of its then mayor, Shinzo Hamai (1905–1968).

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was designed by a team led by architect Kenzō Tange and completed in 1954. Located at what was once the city’s busiest commercial and residential district, this is where the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony takes place every year on 6 August in remembrance of all victims.

HOW TO GET THERE From Tokyo: 4h to Hiroshima Station by JR Tokaido/ Sanyo Shinkansen (Nozomi), and 5h via Hikari and Sakura trains with a transfer of trains at Shin-Osaka Station.

From Osaka: 2h 25min to Hiroshima Station by JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen (Sakura).

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WAttention Singapore

Audio SPOT

原爆ドーム

Atomic Bomb Dome

This World Heritage Site was once the central part of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall which miraculously stayed standing after the bombing.

Audio SPOT

広島平和記念資料館

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

This is the first post-war building to become an Important Cultural Asset (重要文化財), and displays items related to the damage caused by the atomic bomb.

厳島神社

Audio SPOT

Itsukushima Shrine

Most well-known for its iconic “floating” torii (鳥居 , traditional Japanese gate) that can even withstand typhoons and earthquakes.

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.

Image Credit: Melpomene / PIXTA( ピクスタ )

Japan’s city centre for advocating peace

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LIFESTYLE &

ENTERTAINMENT

THIS ISSUE: Latest trends and enter tainment from Japan

t ee em m t C 3 xpo 6 o a C e aE ’1 m ar Jul y Ch 10 9-

10 Questions with Sora Tokui

What is it like to literally become Nico and bring the character to life on stage for the fans? Did you ever expect Love Live! to become such a huge hit?

I did not expect Love Live! to be an anime, so I did not think it would become like this.

What is your favourite part of being to part of μ's?

The fact that I had many fun moments and that part of my youth was created with everyone.

Who is your favourite character to voice?

Milky Holmes’s Nero and Love Live!’s Nico. Since my debut until now, these characters feel like another part of me.

Where do you find the inspiration for the different voices of the characters? Is there a person you think about in real life that inspires the voices?

I find inspiration from the character’s face and appearance. I also get inspiration from many other voice actors.

What type of character would you like to play next?

I want to voice act energetic young boys next time.

What is your best or favourite experience as a seiyuu?

ENTERTAINENT

Affectionately known as “Soramaru”, bubbly Sora Tokui is a multitalented seiyuu ( 声優 , voice actress) who is also a mangaka ( 漫画家 , manga writer and artist) and a member of the idol group Milky Holmes. She is best known for her roles as Nico Yazawa (Love Live!), Chloe Maxwell (Luck & Logic) and Nero Yuzurizaki (Tantei Opera Milky Holmes series). WAttention managed to catch the outgoing and friendly self-professed otaku ( オタク , anime-lover) for a quick chat when she was in town to promote C3 Chara Expo. that pits the most popular music artists of the year against each other in two teams) even though I was a voice actor.

As an anime fan, what are your top 5 anime and/or manga recommendations?

Neon Genesis Evangelion, Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen Mae Hashutsujo, Aoi Honō, Makeruna!!

Aku no Gundan and Gochūmon wa Usagi desu ka?

You’ve been known to cosplay as Asuka from Evangelion, are you planning any more cosplays for the future?

I would love to cosplay other characters other than Nico from Love Live!

Did you expect to have so many fans appear at your event?

I’m very happy that there are also so many fans overseas.

Do you have any message for your fans?

Thanks to everyone’s support, I had many fun memories! I would also like to take on new challenges with everyone in the future.

The fact that I appeared on NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen (Japan’s annual music show

WE WANT YOU!

WAttention Singapore is looking for a part-time talented content creator to join our team and…

You will be:

You need to be:

Writing various types of articles on a wide range of topics for our website and magazine

Extremely passionate about Japan and Japanese culture

Providing ad hoc project, admin and research assistance

An independent worker who plays well with a team

Be on top of the latest trends and happenings in Japan Students/Freelancers are welcome Flexible working hours

$10/hr

(Bilingual English/Japanese)

$8/hr

(English only)

Interested? Email your resume and a short writing sample to arubaito.sg@wattention.com Wattention_Logo_2015.pdf 1 12/11/2015 4:12:32 PM

WAttention Singapore

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EVENT & INFORMATION | JUL & AUG 2016

FIND OUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN JAPAN & SINGAPORE

JAPAN 6-8 Aug Sendai Tanabata Festival More than two million tourists every year visit this festival. Enjoy the colourful decorations, music and dance performances which cover central Sendai and its neighbouring districts. Also catch the fireworks display which occurs on the 5th before the festival.

Free admission, Central Sendai Ⓦ sendaitanabata.com/en

SG: 27 Jul - MAN WITH A MISSION ASIA TOUR 2016 in Singapore

6-7, 13-14 Aug ROCK in Japan Festival 2016 Get ready to rock at the third rock festival organised by Rockin’on Japan, a Japanese music magazine. From UVERworld, BABYMETAL to miwa and RIP SLYME, many well-known J-rock and J-pop artists featured in the line-up will keep you partying all night.

From ¥13,000, Hitachi Seaside Park Ⓦ www.rijfes.jp

This hard rock band, or fi ve-wolf pack, has performed various anime opening songs like "Raise your flag" from Kidō Senshi Gundam Tekketsu no Orphans" and "Seven Deadly Sins" from Nanatsu no Taizai, is finally coming to Singapore! Have a howling great time with them on their latest Asia tour. Buy your premium VIP tickets early and receive an exclusive autographed poster. VIP $168, GA $68 Ticketing page: mwam2016.peatix.com

SINGAPORE 9 Jul YUZU ASIA TOUR 2016 Summer NATSUIRO Celebrate YUZU’s 20 th anniversary and join them on their very first Asia tour where they will be performing their debut song, NATSUIRO. Do note that all ticket categories are free standing.

VIP $138, GA $118 *SCAPE, The Ground Theatre (Level 2) Ⓦ www.sistic.com.sg/events/yuzu 9-10 Jul C3 CharaExpo 2016 Catch New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s stars, live concerts of popular voice actors and panel segments of manga/anime creators at one of Singapore’s largest Japanese pop culture events.

10am - 6pm | Event $8, Event & Concert $43 Singapore Expo Hall 7 Ⓦ chara-expo.com

27-28 Aug Harajuku Omotesando Genki Festival Super Yosakoi 2016 Watch a huge traditional dance contest in a parade that travels through the Harajuku and Omotesando area. Do also check out the special stages in Yoyogi Park, Bunkakan and Harajuku.

16 Jul Mizuno Ekiden 2016 Compete in the long-distance relay race with a team of four, or just enjoy the Japanese food stalls and cultural activities at the Matsuri Festival race village.

From $60, The Promontory @ Marina Bay Ⓦ mizuno.asia/ekiden

23 Jul POCARI SWEAT Run Singapore 2016 Choose from two race categories, 5km and 10km, and run for charity with POCARI SWEAT while setting a new personal best record.

Early Bird $42 (5km) and $52 (10km), Normal Price $50 (5km) and $60 (10km) The Float @ Marina Bay Ⓦ pocarisweatrun.com

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Mid-Late Aug Kiyose Sunflower Festival 2016 Bask in the endless fields of sunflowers at this festival! This rare view of brilliant yellow blooms in Tokyo is a must-visit. You can also get some freshly cut flowers or locally produced vegetables and jam.

Free admission, Ishii Farm, Kiyose City

Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite Izakaya opens in the heart of Orchard Road!

Established for over 30 years, Kotobuki remains at the forefront of Japanese cuisine because of their strong belief in the Kaizen principle, serving delicious and authentic dishes prepared lovingly by our special team. Kick back and enjoy amidst the casual setting of the restaurant or choose to dine in style in their private rooms.

Tel: 6734-7677 www.kotobuki.com.sg

OPEN AT WISMA ATRIA #01-17C

Cho Tokusen Sashimi (Super Premium) $88

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50% oďŹ&#x20AC; *End of June 2016

Kimchi Nabe $20

And many more...

Asahi Beer 1 for 1/glass *End of July 2016

KANPAI

Presented by

VOL.4 | SAKE CULTURE |

Brewery: YAOSHIN BREWERIES 八百新酒造

Relish in the subtle sweetness of this month’s SAKEMARU selection added at the end of the fermenting process. In this case, the sake is also unfiltered and has a mild aroma which intensifies as you hold it in your mouth. Because of the crisp taste, the aftertaste does not last long and fades off comfortably.

This month’s special sake is named after the gangi (雁木, stepped pier) where rice used to be deposited after it had been transported via the river in ancient times.

The pier is located next to the river mouth of Nishiki-gawa (錦川, Nishiki River) in Yamaguchi Prefecture, where this issue’s featured brewery can be found.

While other breweries use a single barrel to produce shubo (酒母, seed mash), a yeast mix containing rice, a type of fungi known as koji (麹) and water, Yaoshin uses a small barrel for the initial stage of shubo before transferring it to a big barrel, leading to a more sophisticated finish.

Sake tips Only the finest Yamada Nishiki, widely considered to be the best possible rice for brewing sake, and pure spring water found in the brewery’s own underground water source is used for the entire process.

Aside from that, the brew master and assistants focus on maintaining the taste and quality of the sake by not adding extra ingredients to keep a pure clean flavour.

GANGI JUNMAI NAMA GENSHU NOICHI 純米無濾過生原酒ノ壱

Gangi is a junmai nama genshu noichi (純米無濾過生原酒ノ壱). Nama genshu refers to a fresh sake where no water has been

Mild and rich sakes such as Gangi are best drunk from a ceramic cup, whose body is wider than its caliber, which enhances its sweetness and aroma.

Win a bottle of

GANGI JUNMAI NAMA GENSHU NOICHI 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 chilled sake transported and delivered 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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WAttention Singapore

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).