WAttention Singapore vol 6 by WAttention

W O N D E R L A N D J A PA N MICA(P)137/12/2010

www.wattention.com

さあ行こう、日本へ Eat, Stay and Find

JAPAN

ISSUE 06

SUMMER 2011

Message from Ambassador

Let me ﬁrst offer my sincere gratitude on behalf of my government to all our friends in Singapore for your very warm support. We are very touched and encouraged. Japan is united and determined to overcome the tragic Great Eastern Japan Earthquake. Let me add that measures to control products and areas affected by the Nuclear Power Plant accident are in place.

Yoichi Suzuki Ambassador of Japan to Singapore

I know you all appreciated so much Japanese food and other products. As

many of you who have been to Japan recently know most parts of the country are unaffected. Tokyo is back to normal. Please continue to appreciate our goodies. Come to Japan. It will be of a big help to us in our recovery efforts.

FAQ on Japanese Food Products in Singapore and Travel to Japan: http://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/japaninfo_foodsafetyfaq.htm

Foreword from Publisher March 11, 2011 – this day will forever remain in our heart. The massive earthquake of magnitude 9.0 hit Tohoku, the North Eastern region of Japan, followed by the devastating tsunami that took lives of 15,057, leaving 9,121 missing (as of May 15). Although it was a heartbreaking event for all Japanese, it was also a moment for us to realize that we were not alone. There was an immediate response from countries and people from all around the world. So far we have received 225 messages of condolence and 173 rescue offers from countries and international organizations, including New Zealand in the middle of its own earthquake relief. International Red Cross and other NGOs immediately started raising fund for disaster relief, and sent medical professionals and daily necessities to the affected region. However what touched us most were people. After the earthquake, wherever we went, we were given condolences and encouragements – taxi, restaurant, shop, school, and even on the street…literally everywhere! Numbers of events were voluntarily organized for disaster relief, as well as donation boxes were put in almost every major grocery store. People prayed for us inter-religiously, at churches, mosques and temples. Thank you, our friends in the world. We are putting all our effort to the recovery with the spirit you have shared with us. After the cherry blossoms covered the land of Tohoku as a symbol of revival, we are even more committed than before. And we are eager to welcome you to Japan once again with the utmost hospitality that you can ever imagine. The editorial team at WAttention also humbly hopes that this magazine will help you continue to get connected with Japan, our beautiful country. With our great appreciation, Yasuko Suzuki Publisher On behalf of the editorial team at WAttention

Japan strives to make another miracle The Great Eastern Japan Earthquake was a great chaotic disaster beyond all description. It can be said that Japan now faces the toughest challenge since the World War II, and it would take 5 or 10 years or even more to rebuild the affected areas. Yet, the Japanese believe that they can—the world will see how quick towns in Tohoku would return to normal. This is thanks to the the fact that Japan has miraculously recovered many times from similar harships, including the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 and the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995. Situated at the convergence of three tectonic plates on the “Ring of Fire,” the Japanese islands have active volcanoes that tremble with the violent forces of creation on an almost daily basis. However, the islands have been blessed with an abundance of hot springs and the beauty of four seasons for thousands of years. While Japan lives with a number of earthquakes, the Japanese have learned how to survive these natural threats. Today, Japanese citizens, together with people from different countries, are working together to rebuild the Tohoku region. Thanks to the help of people from around the world, Japan will arise again.

Sendai Tanabata Festival in Miyagi

Port of Kamaishi in Iwate

{Timeline of Japanese miracles} September 1, 1923: Great Kanto Eartquake

August 15, 1945: End of World War II January 17, 1995: Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake

A 7.9 magnitude earthq u a ke d e va s t a t e d t h e Kanto region, including metropolitan Tokyo and Yokohama. After the disaster, a reconstruction plan made Tokyo modernize its networks of roads, trains and public services. Public radio also started during this time.

Although Japan suffered defeat with the atomic bombing, and Tokyo became a burnt-out wa st e lan d, it rose from the ashes. In the mid1950s to mid-1970s, Japan enjoyed a great economic growth, holding the Tokyo Olympics in 1964.

March 11, 2011: Great Eastern Japan Earthquake

Over 6,000 lives were lost in the 7.2 magnitude earthquake. Sixteen years on, Kobe -the most affected prefecturehas been rebuilt.

Staying in state of the art,

RYOKAN Traditional Japanese inn offers the best part of Japanese hospitality

Experience something different from your daily life? Try something new and interesting in Japan? Tired of typical stays in hotels? Enjoy both traditional living and meals in Japan? Stay in Japanese style of rooms with views of beautiful gardens? Learn more about Japanese culture?

If you’ve ever had any the requests above come to mind for your next trip to Japan, a ryokan, or Japanese-style inn, will make your wishes come true. There are thousands of ryokans in Japan and they would deﬁnitely give you a comfortable stay. Many foreign tourists are immediately impressed as they are greeted at the entrance to the ryokan by a line of bowing staff. Why don’t you include a stay at a luxurious ryokan in your itinerary? Your trip would be more pleasant and fun!

What is a ryokan? Ryokan in kanji (Chinese characters used in Japanese language) literally it means “travel building.” Before western styles of hotels were introduced to Japan at the end of the Edo period, most of the accommodations were ryokan. As western culture has become more influential in Japanese life, ryokan have become accommodation that keeps traditional Japanese culture alive.

Appearance of traditional ryokan 06

What is so special about ryokan? Traditionally decorated guest rooms When you enter your room in a ryokan, taking off your shoes is a habitual practice. At some ryokans, visitors take off their shoes in the main entrance and wear slippers. In other places, they take off shoes at the entrance of their rooms. Once you enter a guest room, you find a tatami floor setting, which serves as the living room, dining room and bed room all in one. In the corner of the room you’ll find a tokonoma, or an ornamental alcove, which is decorated by arranged flowers and a hanging scroll on the wall. A table in the middle of a guest room is low and guests sit on cushions placed on legless chairs. In Japanese formal occasions, people sit with their heels tucked under them, but it is acceptable to sit crosslegged when being relaxed.

Nakai, a maid assigned to the room Services provided by a maid, called nakai, in ryokans are the different aspects of ryokan from hotels. A nakai is assigned to each guest room. She plays a vital role in hospitality, always keeping an eye on her guests and anticipating their every need in advance. Nakai guides guests to their room after check-in. After arriving to the guest room, she greets them, serves tea, explains rules and important information about their stay. The nakai will also serve dinner and breakfast in the room. During

Okami (left), female owner of a ryokan or the owner’s wife, and nakais welcome guests.

her introductory explanation, the nakai will ask when the guests would like dinner and breakfast served. The start time of dinner is relatively early between 6-8 pm. If guests prefer eating after 8 pm, they might need special arrangements in advance. Most ryokans serve kaiseki cuisine, which is a traditional Japanese multicourse meal prepared from fresh and seasonal ingredients. Some foods are served warm, while others are served chilled or at room temperature. The nakai comes into the guest’s room to serve the warm dishes during dinner, keeping track of the pace at which guests are eating before bringing the next food. Breakfast time usually starts between 7:30-8 am. Deciding the time of the meals and providing nakai’s service is based on the hospitality of the ryokan, which serves wellprepared meals at perfect temperature and the perfect timing for each guest.

Be relaxed in the old way A guest room serves as a living room, dining room and bedroom all in one. No bed is set. So how is the bedding prepared? The answer is the nakai or housekeepers come into the guest rooms to spread futon on the tatami after dinner and they come back to clean up futon before breakfast starts. For your privacy, nakai informs guests in advance of time to come back. As most ryokans have hot springs and big public baths in the same compound, guests enjoy morning bath while the staff take care of the futons. Nakai serves tea

Example of cuisines served at ryokan.

In a guest room, yukata, or a cotton kimono is prepared for each guest for sleeping and relaxation wear. It is quite normal for guests to wear yukata when they are going to big bathing areas, so dont be surprised to see others are hanging around in ryokan with yukata on. However, in the most of cases, yukata can be worn only inside, not suitable for going outside of ryokan. Japanese cuisine

New style of ryokan gets popular Ryokans have been diversified because of increasing competition in the market and the changing tastes of visitors. Although ryokans have kept the authentic style of Japanese accommodation, a number of them now have rooms combined with Western influences, as many contemporary Japanese do not necessarily enjoy the traditional way anymore. Rather, they prefer to stay in more modern ryokan, which incorporate western style. The multiple functions of a guest room for living, dining, and sleeping all in one, have been changed. For example, some ryokans have guest rooms with beds in a bedroom separated from the dining and living area. Many Japanese have gotten used to sleeping on

beds rather than on futons. Another reason is more respect for privacy. Some ryokans have started to eliminate maid service itself for guest’s privacy. Instead, people at the front desk

ask for dinner and breakfast service time upon arrival. Even sitting on tatami is not comfortable anymore for some Japanese. Ryokans put couches and chairs on wooden ﬂoors instead of a low table and tatami. Dining style has changed too. Many ryokans adopt separate public dining rooms with other groups of guests, so that housekeepers can prepare the futon while guests are eating dinner. Another new attraction in some ryokans is a private open-air bath in the guest’s room, which often faces beautiful scenery. If you are too shy to enjoy big pubic baths with strangers, such rooms with private open-air baths are recommended. A separate bed room

Try out a ryokan at

hot springs area Many ryokans are typically located in scenic areas, such as in the mountains or by the sea and often have natural hot springs as called onsen. Hot springs are deeply embedded in Japanese lifestyle because of its effectiveness and comforts. Each hot spring has special effects on certain sickness, such as treating rheumatism, gout, and neuralgia, etc. Some stay in a ryokan for

a couple of months for a hot spring cure. Bathing in a large hot spring bath is so refreshing and comfortable, compared to the tiny baths found in hotel rooms and individual houses. Before experiencing such attractive hot springs, learning manners in Japanese public baths would help you enjoy it more. If you have never taken a public bath in Japan, you may find it full of mysteries. Here is some etiquette Guests can enjoy a scenic view for enjoying hot from an open-air bath of ryokan springs: ● Wa s h y o u r bodies and rinse them thoroughly at the bathing area before entering the bathtub. ● Do not splash around or immerse your towel in the bathtub. ● Before you

Open-air bath with a beautiful sunset

leave the bathing area, ensure to stack the bath chair and the basin you used as they were placed and to return all the amenities, such as soap and shampoo, back to their original place. ● Before returning to the changing room, wipe your body to keep the room dry and clean. Nowadays, ryokans boast the uniqueness of their hot springs, including openair baths in nature, family baths, and herbal baths, etc. A variety of hot springs would also help you decide which ryokan to stay depending on your preferences. Experiencing hot springs doubles the attractiveness of your ryokan stay. Bathroom entrance

Japanese etiquette for visitors <4>

Sakura

How to Be a

When you travel, you tend to meet different kinds of people and be in touch with other cultures, but do you know about their local etiquette? Miss Wattention, SAKURA, and her little bear KUMATA will show you how to enjoy Japan's unique culture in an authentic way. You won't feel embarrassed if you know basic their manners and etiquette.

Kumata

There are some differences between traditional ryokan and Western hotels – building structures, facilities, and how to use them. Check out these tips for having a comfortable stay with Sakura and Kumata!

Take off your shoes

When you stay at older ryokan buildings, you often need to take off your shoes at the main entrance and change into slippers. Nowadays there are some ryokans where guests don’t need to take off their shoes at the entrance. Though, when you enter your guest room, you always need to take off your shoes.

4 Nakai-san will be your own guide

Japanese ryokans have a nakai. A nakai is a maid assigned to the room. She guides guests to the room after their check-in. After arriving at the room the nakai welcomes the guest and serves a cup of tea. The nakai will also explain rules of the ryokan, any important information about your stay, as well as about the meals. The nakai serves dinner and breakfast and takes care of preparing the bed (futon). She is also the one to provide omotenashi (hospitality) service to the guest. If you stay at a typical traditional ryokan, the living room, dining room, and bedroom are all combined into one room.

Sonoko Azuma

Illustrator & Manga Artist

She started her career working for one of the most established manga magazines in Japan. Since then, her artworks have been widely featured in publications and websites.

How to sit into zaisu chair

Many ryokans have tatami-matted guest rooms and a low table called a zataku along with a couple of legless chairs called zaisu. When using zaisu, males sit cross-legged on the floor while females sit in a kneeling position on their knees.

Spend your time wearing yukata

When you stay at any ryokan, the best way to get relaxed is by changing your into a yukata. If it is cold, you can wear haori (a half-coat). Besides wearing it in your room, you can enjoy a relaxing stay by wearing your yukata anywhere in the ryokan or its garden.

Manners in a big bath room

Most ryokans have a big communal bathing area for all guests to use. When you go to the bathing area, bring the towel from your room. There is shampoo, rinse, and soap for guests. When you use the bathing area, you need to take off your clothes first and put them into your basket. Wash your body and rinse it thoroughly at the showers before entering the bathtub. Be sure to clean yourself completely and make sure to remove any remaining soap. Avoid soaking your towel into the bath tub because it is unhygienic. Keep noise to a minimum and don’t swim. These acts might bother other bathers. The key to a good soak is relaxation!

and

isit, Vnjoy, e

support Japan

Traveling around and eating local foods will be big advocates

fter the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake, some incorrect information spread around the world, including the misinformation that there is a nuclear plant in Tokyo, and that everyone in Tokyo has to wear their mask to avoid the effects of radiation. When I visited Thailand in April, I realized many people were under the illusion that Japan, the country itself, was under the threat of the nuclear plant crisis. Indeed, pictures and videos of the tremendous tsunami were shocking. The Fukushima nuclear crisis remains serious, too. However, it is clear that Japan as a whole does not face the danger. The major highway running through the most affected Tohoku region was reopened

only two weeks after the earthquake and the news received paper coverage abroad. The Tohoku Shinkansen, or bullet train service, fully resumed its operations on April 29 between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori. Thus, a number of people were able to enjoy hanami in the Tohoku region, which is home to popular cherry blossom viewing spots. On March 12th, just one day after the massive earthquake, the Kyushu Shinkansen line, which connects Hakata to Kagoshima, fully opened. Thanks to this connection, the 2,000 km Shinkansen network is now complete throughout Honshu and Kyushu, running from ShinAomori to Kagoshima-Chuo, passing through Tokyo and Shin-Osaka.

Since the Japanese islands were built by volcanoes and sit over an extremely unstable region of the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crust, it lives with the violent forces of creation on an almost daily basis; the country is renowned for living with more earthquakes and natural disasters than any other country. However, these natural conditions also have beneficial sideeffects, such as the abundance of hot springs, food and the beauty of four seasons. While the massive earthquake seriously damaged Tohokuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pacific coast, sightseeing sites all over Japan are still fine and welcome tourists from abroad. So please visit Japan and travel around the country; it will mean that you support Japan, whose people are waiting for foreign friends with smiles and the mind of omotenashi.

Visit Castle towns There are a great number of castle towns in Japan, whose origins date back to the Sengoku period from the late 15th century to the late 16th century. Lords of castles governed the town, and with the increasing administrative role of castles, each castle town became the economic center of the province. The layout of the town consisted of government and business facilities, samurai houses, chonin (well-off ordinaries) houses, temples and shrines. Today, while there are few original castle town remaining due to war damage and land developments, you can still find attractive towns that retain an atmosphere of a bygone era and uphold their own cultures and sagas. Here, four castle town are introduced: Matsumoto Castle 10

Matsumoto in Nagano

A designated national treasure castle tower and the town of craftsmen Situated in the center of Nagano prefecture, the city of Matsumoto houses a beautifully-preserved castle which is designated as a national treasure. The castle,

whose present building was completed at the turn of the 17th century, is one of few remaining parts of the original castle, making it a must-see for castle lovers. The castle is known as Karasu-jo (Crow Castle) because of its black exterior walls. Its five-tier Tenshukaku, or castle tower, is covered with black lacquer wood boards and stands tall with the peaks of the Northern Alps in the background. Built with many unique architectural elements, the castle also features a graceful Tsukimi-yagura, a moon viewing room. When the castle was constructed, carpenters, stone masons and lacquer craftsmen settled down in Matsumoto. Today, there are many craftsmen who carry on the torch. Matsumoto Furniture was ﬁrst made in the latter half of the 16th century, producing a broad range of products made of timber such as zelkova and Japanese oak, and assembled using traditional

jointing techniques. It is then coated with over ten layers of lacquer – the more it is used, the more depth and beauty it reveals. There are Kiso Lacquerware shops along Nakamachi-dori Street. Another attraction in Matsumoto is their special local soba (buckwheat noodles). You will easily ﬁnd about 30 soba restaurants there.

Transportation The “Azusa” and “Super Azusa” limited express trains take 2hr. 40min. from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto. Or, by local trains, the one way journey from Tokyo to Matsumoto along the JR Chuo Line takes about 5hr., and typically requires about 3 train transfers.

Matsumoto Furniture

Gujo Hachiman in Gifu

Yanaka Mizu-no Komichi in Gujo Hachiman

Popular for streams of clear water and Gujo dance Gujo Hachiman is a charming historic town established when the Gujo Hachiman Castle was built in 1599. The town still preserves the traditional townscape 400 years on, with many historic buildings and original waterways preserved from the 17th century. The town has several historic quarters, including Kajiya-machi, Shokuninmachi, Yanagi-machi and Yanaka Mizuno Komichi, in which narrow, cobblestoned streets are lined with traditional wooden lattice-façade houses along which a historic canal runs through. Situated in a valley where three major rivers meet, this led the town to develop a water canal system in the 17th century which is still used even today. In some water lanes, carps can be seen

swimming in clean, fresh water. The Gujo Hachiman Castle, with commanding views over the town from a hilltop, has always been the town’s symbol. The present building is a 1933 wooden reconstruction. The highlight is an outstanding panoramic view of the town and the valley which can be seen from the castle site. Inside is a museum exhibiting the history of the castle, as well as art objects like armors used by former lords. Gujo Hachiman surprisingly has many interesting small museums and galleries, demonstrating its rich cultural heritage. Among those, the Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan (Gujo Hachiman City Museum) offers visitors a chance to learn the famous Gujo dance. The Gujo dance is a folk dance developed 400 years ago and is performed every summer.

Transportation Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya, and transfer to JR Tokaido Line or Meitetsu Honsen to Gifu. Change to JR Takayama Line to Mino-Ota, from which you take the Nagaragawa Tetsudo to Gujo Hachiman.

Gujo Hachiman Castle 11

Matsue in Shimane

Blessed with tea culture and historic Onsen Situated between Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi, Matsue is a beautiful town surrounded by water. The town’s symbol is Matsue Castle, which is known as Chidori Castle. In Japanese, chidori

means “plover,” and if you look at the shape of the castle’s roof, it looks as if a plover is spreading a wing; such is the beauty of its curve. To the northeast, there is Shiominawate, the district where several old samurai houses remain. Tourist attractions also include the house of famous author Lafcadio Hearn (aka: Koizumi Yakumo in Japan), who is best known for his books about Japanese ghost stories and legends, including “Kwaidan.” The Way of Tea has been popular in Matsue since the Edo period. The town is also one of the most famous spots for wagashi (Japanese sweets) along with Kyoto and Kanazawa, since Matsudaira Fumai, Matsue’s 7th feudal lord, loved and enjoyed the tea ceremony. Visitors can experience it next to the historical Meimeian Tearoom. Also, there is a place called “Karakoro Kobo” which provides visitors an opportunity to make wagashi.

Tamatsukuri Onsen If you have more time or love onsen, Tamatsukuri Onsen is near Matsue (it’s about 10 minutes by train). It is a very old hot spring that is good for lovely

Matsue Castle

Hitoyoshi in Kumamoto

Enjoy the steam train and local shochu Located in the southern tip of Kumamoto prefecture, Hitoyoshi is surrounded by the Kyushu Mountains. Kuma River, which is the largest river in the prefecture and one of the Japan’s three most rapid rivers, runs through the town. Hitoyoshi was governed by the Sagara family for about 700 years from the Kamakura period (1192-1333). The town boasts the ruins of Hitoyoshi Castle, the Aoi Aso-jinja Shrine and traditional, Transportation From Tokyo, it’s 1hr. 30min. from Haneda to Aso-Kumamoto Airport, and 50min. bus ride to Kumamoto station from the airport. Then it’s 1hr. from Kumamoto to Hitoyoshi station by JR Kagoshima-Hisatsu Line, but if you prefer the steam train, it will take 2hr. 30min (available only from March to November).

Kuma River cruise

skin. There is also the Tamatsukuriyujinja Shrine nearby, which is a popular sacred site with a big wishing stone.

Matsue’s wagashi

Transportation From Tokyo, it’s about 1hr. 20min. from Haneda Airport to Izumo Airport. Take a 30min. shuttle bus from the airport to Matsue Station. Or, if you prefer traveling by train, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Okayama, and change to the limited train to Matsue.

Aoi Aso-jinja Shrine

stone-flagged streets. The Aoi Aso-jinja Shrine is hard to miss. The shrine has 1,200 years of history, and its five buildings – including the Honden (where the God lives) – are designated as national treasures. Also, kura (warehouses) of goods such miso and soy sauce draw a lot of people, and today six warehouses are open to the public. The town is popular for its local liquor, Kuma Shochu, with about 30 breweries using water from the river and local rice. Shochu is a perfect accompaniment to local cuisines, including horse sashimi and fishes. There are over 20 public hot spring baths in the town, so tourists can be

relaxed during their trip. There are also exciting outdoor activities in Hitoyoshi, including taking the Kuma River cruise that goes down the river rapids from where you can see outstanding views, and riding a steam train connecting Kumamoto Station to Hitoyoshi Station that is reminiscent of the old days. This report is originally written in Japanese by Junko Sekiya, travel writer and the president of Tabikoi Co., Ltd. Photos: Courtesies of Junko Sekiya, Gujo Hachiman Sangyo Shinko Kosha, Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture Tourist Federation, and Kumamoto Prefectural government

Mt. Fuji:the pride of Japan Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, sushi, onsen—these are the top things that people imagine as symbols of Japan. Here at the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, you can enjoy them all. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is only two or three hours from Tokyo. The park stretches 121,695 ha. and includes Mount Fuji (the highest mountain in Japan), the Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, parts of the Izu Peninsula and all of the Izu Islands. The park is divided into four areas: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Izu Peninsula, and Izu Islands. While each area has its own attraction, it can be said that the park, as a whole, is known for its natural beauty. In the Mt. Fuji Area, visitors can

enjoy not only mountain climbing, but also other activities like camping and ﬁshing. Hakone is a historic onsen town that has been flourishing since the Edo period (1603–1867). Today, the area draws more foreign tourists. If you prefer driving during your trip, the Izu area is recommended for the outstanding scenic views that their roads command. Moreover, the Izu Island Chain is a popular resort destination that offers a number of picturesque diving spots.

Photo: Alan Seki He is a photographer who enjoys travelling throughout Japan and Asia. Born in Tokyo, Seki spent over 20 years outside of Japan – in London, Nairobi, Los Angeles, Singapore, and Bangkok – as a representative of a Japanese trading company and a news agency. Visit his online photo gallery of Japanese ryokan, resorts and World Heritage sites at http://resortbank.exblog.jp/

WAttention’s pick up

Hakone

Onsen resort within a few hours from Tokyo

Only a couple of hours from Tokyo, Hakone is a popular getaway resort blessed with mountainous natural beauty. The Hakone checkpoint on the Tokaido, one of the ﬁve major highways during the Edo period, marks the beginning of the Kanto region. The area is known for its highly-reputed onsen (hot springs), which used to be called Hakone Shichito, or Hakone Seven Hot Springs. Today, the town has 20 major hot springs, including Hakone Yumoto and Goura. Many Tokyoites come to Hakone for a relaxing soak in the hot springs. In recent years, Hakone has been attracting a great number of foreign tourists as well. Hakone Yumoto, a historic hot spring town dating back to the Nara period in the 8th century, is one of the busiest destinations here. There are more than 70 sources of hot-spring water around this area, while its position at the entrance to Hakone means it has many shops and restaurants, as well as luxurious traditional ryokans and hotels.

Hakone Mountain Railway

Transportation From Tokyo Station, it takes about 40min. to Odawara station by JR Shinkansen Kodama. Transfer to the Hakone Mountain Railway which takes about 15min. to Hakone Yumoto station. Or, from Shinjuku Station, it takes about 1hr. 30min. by Odakyu Railway Romance Car train to Hakone Yumoto Station. Lake Ashi

Hotel Senkei Senkei is an onsen ryokan that is only a 10 minute walk from Hakone Yumoto Station. Like most other traditional ryokans, it provides accomplished omotenashi services. Since the name Senkei refers to “the view of mountain hermits,” guests can enjoy the view from its openair bath on the rooftop. During dinner or breakfast, meals will be served in the privacy of the guest rooms. Menu includes appetizer, sashimi and main dish, where you can enjoy the taste of each season’s best. Although few staff can speak English, their service

仙景

alone will keep you in relaxed satisfaction. Mariko Tsuda, the female manager, says “After the earthquake, Hakone is still ﬁne, including tourist attractions like its outstanding views and onsen. Guests from different countries are more than welcome, so please come and visit this town.” Senkei often provides special rates to draw more individual tourists. You can book online in English at http://www.senkei.net/eng/

Mariko Tsuda, okami of Senkei

Address: 592 Yumoto Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Phone: 81-460-85-5500 Email: senkei@palette.plala.or.jp

14 14

WAttention’s pick up

Paradise of hot springs and outdoor activities

Rinsen-ji Temple

Mt. Komuro

About a 10-minute walk from IzuKogen station is a ryokan called “Hanafubuki,” located in a deep forest. The ryokan has four buildings with various kinds of rooms, including a Western-style guest room. Even in their Japanese buildings, they provide Western-style services, including private and reserved bathrooms, meals served at dining rooms, and no-nakai (maid) services. They also offer futon (bed) services if you prefer. This is to ensure that guests can feel relaxed as if staying at a luxurious resort villa. Their cuisine uses local seafood, painstakingly prepared for guests to savour. Since the Izu Peninsula is surrounded by abundant nature, one of the attractions here is to take a nature tour to the Jogasaki Coast from Hanafubuki. Shingo Ichikawa, the owner of the ryokan, will

花吹雪

Hanafubuki Hotel

Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula is a popular day trip and weekend get-away destination for Tokyoites, with about 30 hot-spring resorts nestled in an alluring natural landscape. Shimoda, situated in the southeast of the peninsula, was one of the first Japanese harbor cities to be opened to international trade. Also, tourists can enjoy the taste of Izu, especially its fresh seafood dishes. There are a number of unique tourist attractions all around in the peninsula. From spring to summer, outdoor activities in its beautiful sea, mountains and parks are the highlights here. Below are some featured ryokans in Izu Kogen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resort areas. Transportation From JR Tokyo Station, take a limited express "Odoriko-Go" (1hr. 45min.) or "Super View Odoriko-go (1hr. 40min.) to Izu Kogen Station. You can also take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami and transfer to Izu Kogen Station on Ito line. (1hr. 15mins.).

坐漁荘

Hotel Zagyosoh

be your guide to explain its viewing spots, plants and rich nature. “The tour takes about an hour walking along the trail to the coast. Participants can see verdant forests and outstanding views from a suspension bridge,” says Ichikawa. “Guests from different countries can also enjoy the tour and spend some time in nature.”

Located in Ukiyama Onsen with its rich green environment, Zagyosoh has a reputation for its omotenashi service and excellent food. The ryokan has 20 guest rooms with private bathrooms; seven of which include private open-air baths. The okami, or female manager, and nakais welcome guests at the traditional ryokanstyle lobby where they can enjoy the taste of green tea. This ryokan also attracts people from overseas with its personalized services. Additionally, its cuisine is exceptional: its kaiseki dinner menu starts with localproduced candleberry sake, followed by appetizer, side dishes, main dish and dessert. Because their chef changes the menu every month to reflect seasonal specialties, guests can enjoy a mix of traditional Japanese and Western cuisines.

Fresh sashimi dish

Beautiful Japanese garden

Address: 1041, Yawatano, Ito city, Shizuoka Phone: 81-557-54-1550 Email: info@hanafubuki.co.jp

Address: 1741 Yawatano, Ito city, Shizuoka Phone: 81-557-53-1170 Email: info@zagyosoh.com

Special Column

Letter from Kyoto

Toxic misconceptions

BY JANICE TAY / The Straits Times Correspondent

Much media attention has been paid to the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake but most reports have focused only on the disaster-hit areas. We reproduce a column published in The Straits Times on March 23 that puts the situation in perspective.

OU probably won’t believe me. You won’t because you will have seen the images. The infernos, the pulverized houses, that almost incomprehensible wall of water that swept in from the sea, carrying buildings – some of them on ﬁre – with it as it swallowed up the land. You will know of the struggle to bring the reactors at Fukushima’s No. 1 nuclear plant under control. You may have seen footage of the crush at Narita airport as foreigners ﬂed the country. So you could be forgiven for thinking that the whole of Japan is a disaster zone. It isn’t. I first learnt about the March 11 earthquake when a friend in Bangkok e-mailed to ask if I was all right. The magnitude 9 quake off the eastern coast of Japan is the largest ever recorded in

the country but, over in the west, I didn’t feel a thing. As I watched live coverage of the disaster though, I felt plenty. Amid the horror and worry for friends on the other side of the country was a dilemma: Was this any time to be going on holiday? I was supposed to leave for Gifu prefecture in the centre of Japan two days later. Go or stay? I could find nothing in the news about earthquake damage there. The train tickets had been bought and accommodation booked. Friends who had travelled up from Singapore were depending on me to be translator and guide. But I was in no mood to have fun. As I dithered, a friend in the east of Japan made up my mind for me. I had sent her a text message; she runs an inn right next to the sea and I was worried about the tsunami. She turned out to be fine. I asked if any of her guests had cancelled their stay. The reply: yes, several. But, she said: “It can’t be helped.” That one line decided matters. There might not be much I could do for the victims in the north-east but I could help those in the tourist trade elsewhere in Japan, people who would be hit with cancellations now and in the months to come. Still, solidarity sightseeing felt strange. We travelled by road and rail for about six hours into the Japanese Alps area of Gifu. On the way we passed mountains still under snow and rivers brighter than emerald. We passed buildings of every kind – all still standing. We passed huge bridges – all still standing. We passed schools – at every one, there seemed to be youngsters playing baseball. It was a route I would have called scenic if it did not look surreal to eyes halfexpecting destruction. Over the five days of the trip,

the sense of strangeness deepened: not because the Japanese we met were incapacitated by the crisis but because they weren’t. Many who have travelled in this country attest to the hospitality of its people. We experienced it over and over again: the inn owner who offered to drive us to a mountain attraction when I said we were taking the bus there, the lightly clad receptionist who rushed out into a snowstorm with umbrellas when she saw that we weren’t carrying any, the actress at a tourist spot who offered to take a photo of my friends during her break from ﬁlming. Occasionally though, that resolute hospitality cracked. A guide at a historic building – almost as if she couldn’t help herself – asked: “Aren’t you worried?” The pause that followed was awkward. To admit to worry when surrounded by all that normality was plain embarrassing.“Well, our relatives are,” said one of my friends at last. “We’re okay.” The guide folded over into a deep bow.“Thank you very much.” With some effort, she carried on with the tour. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t worried. But I noticed that I entertained thoughts of evacuation only after reading nonJapanese media reports. To be specific, a certain kind of media report. The headlines and subject matter varied but the subtext – “We’re all going to die!!!” – was the same. Other reports took a calmer view. They were in the minority, being rather less exciting. A Friday article on the BBC website falls into the second category. Among the experts quoted was Professor Richard Wakeford from the Dalton Nuclear Institute, who specialises in radiation epidemiology. He pointed out that “the normal chance of dying from cancer is 20 to 25 per cent.” When it came to people outside the plant, he said: “I can’t see any chance of picking out the effect of the Fukushima releases against the general

Gassho-style house in Takayama, Gifu prefecture. 16

background of cancers.” I take this to mean that smoking, heavy drinking, insufﬁcient exercise and an unhealthy diet pose far greater risks to human health than radioactive particles wafting out of the Fukushima plant. Admittedly, it can be hard to stay calm. Milk from Fukushima and spinach from neighbouring prefectures have been found to have levels of radiation that exceed Japanese legal limits. But, said Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano yesterday, the products were not an immediate health risk. Over the next few days, we will undoubtedly hear of more instances of higher-than-usual radiation levels. And when we do, it would be good to remember something experts have been telling us almost from the start of the crisis: This is not Chernobyl. A New York Times article last Tuesday noted that the epidemic of thyroid cancer following the nuclear disaster there“would probably not have happened if people had been told to stop drinking locally produced milk.” In Japan’s case, produce in the affected areas is being monitored and the results are being made public. The authorities have said that sales of the contaminated products will be halted if necessary and have already prohibited the sale of raw milk and spinach from Fukushima as well as spinach from three neighbouring prefectures. The relentless focus on the radiation

Peoples from different countries enjoy tea time in Japan today.

issue has diverted attention from the plight of thousands in Japan’s north-east. Almost 340,000 people are in shelters, according to the Mainichi newspaper, while about 256,820 households were without electricity as of late Saturday: a problem even more worrying because of the cold. Then there are the tens of thousands of buildings damaged, some beyond repair. And almost totally ignored by the foreign media is that other Japan, the one that has largely escaped wreckage by the

earthquake and tsunami. But it will be hit with a disaster of a different kind if people stay away or shun its goods because of radiation fears that have no sound basis. That Japan does not need you to give donations. It needs you to give up your fear.

tastingjapan@gmail.com

Source:[state publication] Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reproduced with permission

Recommended sites around Gifu There are a number of recommended sites to visit in Japan. As this column mentioned, here we feature Takayama, a popular sightseeing spot in Gifu prefecture: Located in the northern part of Gifu prefecture, Takayama is known for its well-preserved castle and merchant towns from the Edo period (1603-1868). There are numerous old wooden houses that stand side by side, creating a lineal beauty that draws visitors here. This historic town that is centered on the Sanmachi Street is designated an Historically Signiﬁcant Traditional Buildings Preservation Area. The town is still a part of life for people in Takayama today, offering a wide

range of shops, restaurants, sake breweries, craftsmen’s workshops and so on. Some of these premises have been operating for centuries. Some of the older private houses in the old town have been converted into museums, including the Hida Minzoku Kokokan (Hida Archaeology Museum) and the Hirata Kinenkan (Hirata Folk Art Museum), where visitors can view the interior of these houses closely and learn about lives of its people in the days of old. The Takayama Festival, believed to have begun in the 16th or 17th century, is one of the most beautiful festivals in

JAPAN

Aomori Akita Iwate Yamagata

Niigata

Nagano

Gifu

Miyagi

Fukushima

Tokyo

Narita Airport

Haneda Airport

Shizuoka

Japan, and not to be missed. The festival is held twice a year; once in spring and once in fall, with this year’s fall festival to be held on October 9-10.

Historic townscape in Takayama, Gifu prefecture. 17

Cheering

A message from Shermay Lee

Don’t be deluded by rumors

Enjoy Japanese products to support Japan

uring my recent and frequent visit to MEDI-YA supermarket, I’m pleased to see that both Japanese and Singaporeans are busy buying Japanese products. These purchases are vital for a recovery of the Japanese economy and they need our support more so now than ever before. The AVA upholds vigorous standards so I have confidence in their checks - in fact, they tend towards the cautious side, which is good for consumers. We must also bear in mind that there are parts of Japan than remain unaffected, and products from those areas are perfectly ﬁ ne. As a fan of Japanese culture, food and products, I will personally continue to buy and use their products in a show of support.

Shermay’s inaugural cookbook

About Shermay Lee Shermay Lee is an investment-banker-turned award winning cookbook author, having won 2 awards at an international competition and garnered 2 accolades at the Gourmand. She is also the Managing Director and culinary instructor at her own cooking school, Shermay’s Cooking School. A 6th generation Peranakan with a strong culinary tradition, Shermay started cooking at the age of 5. She learnt the rudiments of cooking ﬁrst from her grandmother, Mrs Lee Chin Koon, who was considered the doyen of Peranakan cuisine and was the author of the famous cookbook, Mrs Lee’s Cookbook, a kitchen stalwart published three decades ago. She later attended the renowned classical French culinary institute, Le Cordon Bleu. Prior to that, she graduated from Brown University, USA, with a degree in Political Science and History.

The New Mrs Lee’s Cookbook Vol. 1:

The New Mrs Lee’s Cookbook Vol. 2:

Nonya Cuisine was launched in Oct 2003 and garnered 2 accolades at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2003. The cookbook was ﬁrst awarded the ‘Best Cookbook Award - Special Awards Category (English)’ then proceeded to the ﬁnals and won a ‘Special Award of the Jury in the Respect of Tradition’.

Straits Heritage Cuisine, was launched in Oct 2004. Both cookbooks were on the Borders and Kinokuniya Top 10 BestSelling list.

About Shermay’s Cooking School Shermay’s Cooking School is where several of Singapore’s awardwinning and celebrity chefs and cookbook authors conduct cooking classes. The classes & Workshops are designed to make cooking accessible; easy and fun for novice as well as advanced chefs. Students of any culinary ability and background are welcome! The school also has a retail shop that stocks a wide range of practical, difficult-to-find but affordable items such as Valrhona chocolate couverture, blow torches and soufflé baking dishes. With access to professional kitchen gadgets and fine foods, a few practical tips and triedand-tested recipes, you should be able to cook like a chef andreplicate gourmet dishes in your own home in no time!

Shermay recommends

Shermay’s Cooking School Chip Bee Gardens (Holland Village), Blk 43 Jalan Merah Saga #01-76 Tel: 6479-8442 / 6479-8414 www.shermay.com

A Delicious Japanese Recipe to cook at home 三色弁当 Three Colored Bento Ingridients (for 4 persons)

Method:

Steamed Rice 1000g-1200g

1. Make Minced Chicken sprinkles. Place sake, soy sauce, sugar and water in a saucepan. Add minced chicken, stir wel. 2. Place the saucepan over medium heat, keep stirring with the chopsticks until the minced chicken is cooked. Simmer until the liquid is almost evaporated. Cool down to room temperature.

Topping ingridients -Minced Chicken Sprinkles Minced chicken 400g Sake 8tbsp(120ml) Soy sauce 6tbsp(90ml) Japanese white sugar 4tbsp Water 8tbsp(120ml)

-Sweet Scramble Egg Egg 3pcs Egg yolk 1pc Canola oil 1tsp Japanese white sugar 1tbsp Salt 1pinch

Important note for bento making

Recipe by Aki Watanabe, Japanese culinary instructor at Shermay’s Cooking School

All the items should be cooked completely and must be cooled down completely before being stuffed in bento box.

3. Make sweet scramble egg. Mix and stir all the ingredients in a saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium low heat, keep stirring until the eggs are cooked and become fine bits. 4. Transfer the eggs into a bowl. Keep stirring until cool down to room temperature. Scoop steamed rice into each bento box (200-250g / box), pat lightly to flatten. 5. Arrange the minced chicken sprinkles and sweet scrambled eggs, topped with blanched and sliced French beans and sprinkle shredded nori seaweed. 6. To add bamboo shape fish cake (chikuwa) stuffed with Japanese cucumber and Cherry tomatoes as side dish is extra.

WAttention organizes MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT to support Japan. Hokkaido

What is “MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT”?

Donation

The Great Eastern Japan Earthquake that hit mainly Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures in Japan on March 11 was a great natural disaster beyond all description. It can be said that Japan now faces the toughest challenge since World War II. However, Japan has overcome tough challenges before, and has rebuilt from hardships. We do believe Japan will get over this hardship and rise again, making another miracle. Thus, we have started our “MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT” to support Japan’s rebuilding.

WAttention will donate a part of the sales of our sponsors’ advertisements to Tomioka-cho, a town in Fukushima prefecture.

The goal of MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT Japan is now hit by harmful rumors that have spread around the world and it is a serious problem. It causes restrictions on Japanese products and deters people from traveling to Japan. To overcome these tough situations, it is important to inform the truth about the current situations in Japan and to promote the awareness that Japanese products and Japan itself are safe.

Details of MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT “Eat more Japanese cuisine campaign” collaboration with WAttention WAttention has a special feature on Japanese restaurants in Singapore that serve foods that have passed the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA)’s test for radiation. These foods have also gone through voluntary restrictions by Japanese farms before being imported.

Enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine at our participating restaurants and

Stamp Rally

Win A Pair of Air Tickets to JAPAN! Collect three stamps at our participating restaurants of the Miracle Japan Project featured in pages 22 to 24 of this issue, and win a lucky draw prize! Prizes include a pair of air tickets to Japan(*) and an accommodation voucher. Just fax in or send us Stamp Rally form with 3 stamps before 31 July 2011. Prizes will be sent directly to the winner. (*Terms & conditions apply)

Name: Nationality: Gender: Occupation: Age: ID(NRIC/FIN/ Passport) Email Address: Address:

What is Tomioka-cho in Fukushima Like? Tomioka-cho is a town approximately 240 km Northeast of Tokyo, located between the beautiful Abukuma Mountains and the Paciﬁc Ocean, and occupies the central part of Hamadori, the Eastern seashore region of Fukushima prefecture. Approximately 16,000 residents live there. When the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake and the subsequent tsunami on March 11th damaged the Fukushima I NPP (nuclear power plant), residents within a 10km (later 20 km) radius had to evacuate the next day, on the 12th, to other cities like Koriyama. With such short notice, the people who lived in the area (including Tomioka-cho residents) had to evacuate with the barest necessities, and Tomioka-cho is now a ghost town.

Message from Tomioka-cho Mayor, Mr Katsuya Endo Progress in Tomioka-cho after the disasters is like going 3 steps forward and then 2 steps back. We still have over ten missing residents and it’s frustrating that we don’t know the exact number. We are measuring radiation levels at Tomioka town hall every day, and it is about 8.2 micro Sv/hr, which is not especially high. The annual permissible amount to humans is set at 27 mili Sv, so we will see what happens. The soil here contains only about 3.8 micro Sv, so as long as the radiation leak ceases at Fukushima I NPP, we believe that the residents can come back to our town relatively soon. Fukushima II NPP, which is located in our town, was actually in a serious condition as well. But, one electric cable miraculously survived at a near-by electric power station, so the workers used that as well as generators, motors and cooling equipment borrowed from the other nuclear power plants to save Fukushima II NPP. They worked really hard but I heard it was a close call. The other towns in Fukushima have been very generous since the disasters and accepted many of our evacuees; there are 1,300 evacuees staying at a convention centre in Koriyama city. We also have a close relationship with the Shinagawa ward of Tokyo for a long time since before the disasters, and they have been delivering aid supplies to us. We’ll have to deal with the evacuation for a while, but we are trying our best to bring our residents back to Tomioka-cho, so we truly appreciate any support we can get. Reported by Ken Takeyama, Shupankohboh Cambridge Co.,Ltd. on May 1st

Shop Name

Stamp

FAX: 65-6324-2161 E-mail: info@wattention.com Minook International (S) Pte Ltd: 2B Craig Road Singapore 089662

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS OF MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT

US Beef Jyo Karubi -Prime Short Rib$19.30 Prime Tongue $16.80 Wagyu Stick Karubi $16.80 Tontoro Karubi -US Kurobuta Pork$11.30 Deep Fried Garlic $5.30

Party Set Course

$110++/4pax (U.P. $127

)

Assorted Skewers Platter Assorted Sushi Imperial Assorted Sashimi (7kinds) Sukiyaki (Big) and more

Recommendations from the bar: Hitachino Nest from Ibaraki Yona Yona Ale from Nagano Kinshachi from Aichi Shiga Kogen IPA from Nagano

YAKINIKUTEI AO-CHAN

HACHI RESTAURANT

Proudly offering the best quality Yakiniku meats

Seasonal Japanese cuisine in Omakase style

One of the oldest Yakiniku, Japanese Grill restaurants in Singapore founded by a Japanese owner, it proudly offers high quality ingredients, including the much-loved US beef Karubi (prime rib), which comes from a precious 1 % of the cow. Yakiniku Ao-chan also has a good stock of real Japanese Kuroge Wagyu from Japan. The friendly atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in Japan, and the price is surprising affordable considering the quality, especially the Australian wagyu, which is priced lower here than at other restaurants.

Hachi Restaurant is one of the pioneers of Omakase – “up to the chef” – dining in Singapore, where without a ﬁxed dinner menu, patrons would be relieved of decision-making over a meal. Instead, they would be delightfully surprised with the selection made by the highly skilled and experienced Chef Watanabe, who artistically crafts dishes made with the freshest harvested ingredients from Japan, including seasonal specialties like Japanese crab. During lunchtime, set lunches and Shokado (assorted) bento are available in addition to Omakase.

100 Orchard Rd #02-22/26 Concorde Hotel Tel: 6735-6457 Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm 6pm-11pm Sat, Sun & PH 3pm-10:30pm

Dinner Omakase Course from $118++ Lunch Omakase Course from $68++ Shokadou Bento from $38++ Weekend Family Promotion $118++ 1Adult + 1Child* 2Adult + 2Child* $236++ *under 10-years-old

6 Mohamed Sultan Rd. Tel: 6734 9622 Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm 6pm-11pm Sat & Sun 6pm-11pm Closed every 2nd & last Sunday www.hachirestaurant.com

WATAMI

RESTAURANT HOSHIGAOKA

The most affordable authentic Japanese Restaurant in Singapore

Serving authentic Japanese cuisine for more than 38years

Friends for Japan (FFJ) is Watami Singapore’s New Campaign to cheer up and show care and concern for Japan. Find out how to participate and get your Free card from 1st to 30th June at any of our Watami outlets. Enjoy Free vouchers on your 3rd, 5th, and 7th visit, and 50% discount for Set Meal $55 on your 10th visit, when you show your FFJ card upon payment. Each time you dine in get a stamp on your FFJ card for a minimum spending of $10. What more, your frequency card becomes a 5% Discount Card(valid till 31st Dec, 2011) when the 10 visits are completed until 31st July, 2011. We accept reservation Rafﬂes City and The Central only. Junction 8 Raﬄes City The Central ION Orchard

Tel: 6258-3577 Tel: 6336-2425 Tel: 6323-3398 Tel: 6509-9366

A family Japanese restaurant with more than 38 years of rich history, Restaurant Hoshigaoka was ﬁrst opened in 1972. Initially named Hoshigaoka Saryo, the restaurant from Japan brought with it traditional Japanese cooking with an emphasis on discriminating culinary tastes and trademark Japanese hospitality. More than an update to the well-loved brand, the redesign is formulated in line with the traditions. It continues to serve cherished long-time customers as well as a new generation of diners.

Daily Set Lunch starts ++ from

$12.80

Available daily from 11am to 2.30pm

Isetan Scotts (Shaw House), Level 4 Tel: 6734 9725 Eastpoint Mall, #03-14 Tel: 6786 6388 Woodlands Civic Centre, #02-05/06 Tel: 6363 2315 11am-10pm (Last order: 9.30pm) www.jppepperdine.com

JI BIRU

SAN-SUI SUMIYAKI & BAR

Let’s try uniquely tasty Japanese craft beer

Traditional Japanese restaurant offering sumiyaki specialities

The name “JiBiru” means “local beer” in Japanese. This is the first bar in Singapore dedicated to Japanese craft brews from different areas all over Japan, including award-winning labels. Those with adventurous tastebuds might want to try some experimental flavors, such as espresso and Akamiso beer. Their menu also offers a proper range of Japanese food to accompany the beer. Facing a small pedestrian lane, its open and casual atmosphere is suitable for hanging out after five.

Located at One Fullerton and overlooking Marina Bay, San-Sui Sumiyaki & Bar is a contemporary chic establishment that offers the impeccable pairing of ﬁne Japanese cuisine with traditional beverages. The restaurant features grilled items from the sumiyaki – a charcoal grill ﬁred by binchotan, a high grade white charcoal. San-Sui’s tempting menu showcases a stellar range of poultry, pristine seafood as well as prime cuts of wagyu beef, all expertly prepared by a team of specialist chefs.

313 Orchard Rd. #01-26 313@Somerset Tel: 6732 6884 Sun-Thu 11am-11pm Fri, Sat & Eve of PH 11am-12am www.jibiru.com

*Terms & Conditions apply to all promotions. Ask the staff for details

Happy hour oﬀer

1-for-1

all housepours Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm Sat & Sun 3pm-8pm

1 Fullerton Rd. Tel: 6423 1555 Mon-Fri Lunch:12pm-3pm Sun-Mon:6pm-10:30pm (L.O.) Bar Sun-Tue 5pm-11pm Wed&Thu 5pm-1am Fri, Sat & Eve of PH 5pm-2am www.sansui.com.sg

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS OF MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT

Nigiri SAKURA Lunch $28

Sushi Gozen $54 Sashimi Set $35 Osusume Lunch $45 Sushi Bento $38

TOMI SUSHI

MIZ JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Genuine Japanese cuisine with Niigata origin

Great taste with no frills by a veteran chef

The ﬁrst Tomi Sushi opened in Niigata prefecture in 1954. As the area is famous for the Koshihikari rice, a profusion of bigname sake breweries as well as various seafood from the Sea of Japan, they offer genuine Japanese food that reﬂects the Niigata taste in Singapore by using only carefully-selected high quality ingredients. The interior design of the restaurant features a long, pale wood counter, which gives you an authentic feel of dining in Japan. You can even ask the chef for the day’s specials, as he’s more than happy to suggest to you some hidden gems that are not on the menu.

After working for some of the best restaurants in Japan and Singapore, Japanese chef decided to open a down-to-earth kind of restaurant - a little hideout located lively Tanjong Pagar, which is a no frills joint offering the great taste of authentic Japanese home cooking, using carefully selected fresh ingredients. Considering the quality, the price is unbelievably reasonable, so it’s not surprising that many Japanese food lovers are regulars here.

9 Raﬄes Blvd. #P03-04 Millenia Walk PARCO Marina Bay Tel: 6333-4633 Mon-Fri 11:30pm-3pm 6pm10:30pm Sat, Sun & Eve of PH 11:30pm-3pm 5:30pm-10:30pm www.tomisushi.asia

Oyster Dynamite (2pcs) and a glass of white wine $15 Grilled wagyu beef (50g) with rock salt and a glass of red wine $30 A glass of sake $8

7 Craig Road Tel: 6225-5761 /6225-5961 Mon-Fri 11:30pm-12am Sat,Sun & PH 12pm-10pm

SANDAIME BUNJI The specialities, Oden and Gyutan from Miyagi

Order an Assorted Oden (7pc) and show this article to received an upgrade Assorted Oden (12pc).

Managed by a Japanese company that originates from Miyagi prefecture in the Tohoku region, this new Japanese restaurant at Millennia Walk specializes in Oden (Japanese pot-au-feu) made with various fishcakes, as well as Gyutan (grilled beef tongue); both of which are well-known local delicacies of Miyagi. Those who are not familiar with the taste of Tohoku cuisine can try out their reasonably-priced sets that feature their signature dishes. With an open concept kitchen, diners can watch the staff at work around the custom-made open fire oven and charcoal grill stand. 9 Raffles Blvd. #01-14/15 Millennia Walk Tel.6333-1516 Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-11pm Sat 11:30am-11pm Sun 11:30am-9pm

The message from Fumiaki Abe, MD of Abezen Singapore The big earthquake affected the Tohoku area badly on March 2011. My home – and the headquarters of our company that has manufactured seafood products for 85 years – also suffered the wrath of the earthquake and tsunami. I was in Tokyo when the earthquake hit, but I didn’t manage to get in touch with my family who runs the factory until a week after the event occurred. Actually, the first overseas branch of “Sandaime Bunji” opened soon after that. I considered going back home to help them, but my brother’s words, “Do your best in Singapore,” encouraged me to open the Bunji branch on schedule, on the 18th of March. I’ve always had a love of my home town, Miyagi, which is in the Tohoku region. Our restaurant, Sandaime Bunji – which is influenced by the 900-year history of fish-related

products in the region – boasts many popular locally-processed fish items from our headquarters in Miyagi. I opened Bunji to expose Miyagi to Singapore, and to let Singaporeans enjoy the foods of Tohoku, like the “Surimi” (ground meat) and “Kamaboko” (fishballs) that are proudly made by our factory. This is one of the reasons I’ve put “Oden” (stew) made with seafood on our main menu. There are still lots of problems in Miyagi after the disaster, but it is recovering step by step. I am trying my best to serve authentic Japanese flavors, and I believe that making Sundaime Bunji a shop that is well-loved in Singapore would be a great encouragement to those suffering in Tohoku. I look forward to seeing you at our store.

Proﬁle of Fumiaki Abe

Born in Miyagi Prefecture, Fumiaki joined “Abezen Shouten (Store)” – which was established by his grandfather – after graduating from college. After his stint in the Sales Department of the company’s Kanto (Greater-Metropolitan Tokyo Area) branch, he established “Abezen Restaurant Systems” in 2000. He currently manages the first overseas branch of “Sandaime Bunji” in Singapore, in addition to 9 bars and restaurants in Tokyo. He also offers food manufacturing and wholesale services.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS OF MIRACLE JAPAN PROJECT

1 FREE Appetizer with any order of Chirashi Sushi or Donburi at lunchtime

*valid until the end of June Ladies Lunch Set $18 Dinner Nigiri Sushi Set $50 “Omakase” Dinner Set $100

Party Set Menu only $68

*minimum order 2pax

Sunday & Public Holiday Special Set only $38

SUSHIYA NO MEI

CHANKO NADA

Authentic sushi bar serving fish from Kyushu

Secret recipes handed down Directly from a SUMO stable

The owner-chef, who has a brilliant 30 -year career that includes a period at the celebrated Ginza Shintomizushi restaurant, offers authentic Edomae sushi (traditional Tokyo-style sushi) here. Most of the fish are imported directly from fishermen in Kyushu, so you can enjoy marvelous freshness as you would in Japan. As it also has a decent range of Sake & Shouchu, regulars are often seen at their favorite seats along the counter with a glass, chatting with the chef.

In collaboration with a sumo cuisine restaurant owned by ex-sumo wrestler in Tokyo, Chanko Nada offer their specialty, a wide range of authentic Chanko-nabe, which is a special sor t of nabe eaten at sumo stables as par t of a weight gain diet. From the most popular taste of shio (simply good chicken broth) to miso, or soy sauce to its unique curr y broth, you can enjoy a different flavor with each visit.

Blk 7 Tanjong Pagar #01-108 Tel: 6220-3466 Mon-Sat 12pm-2:30pm 6pm-10pm PH 6pm-9pm Closed on Sunday

Tsukasa Botan, Koshino Homare, Ooyama 3 kinds of Junmai Sake 1.8L($100 each) Komusubi Course : Only $50 Ohzeki Course : Only $65 Yokozuna Course : Only $80 *Minimum order 5 pax *Reservation required *Chanko Hot Pot as main course is choose from Shio, Shoyu, Miso or Curry Chanko

SHABU HANA

YAKINIKU HANATORA

Shabu-shabu expert offers The best of quality

New yakiniku restaurant at Boat Quay

Located in the historic shophouse, Shabu Hana has gained a reputation among gourmands. The specialty, Shabu-shabu, and siginature dish, Suki-shabu (Shabu-shabu with sukiyaki style broth) are prepared using only the best quality of meats including Oumi-gyu, high-end “marbled” Japanese Wagyu, directly imported from the supplier in Japan, and Kurobuta pork. The extensive range of beverage is available, which is selected by Japanese lady owner, who is a qualiﬁed sommelier and sake & shouchu tasting specialist. For special occasions, book one of 3 private rooms (no extra-charge).

For a Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant, the quality of meat is the most important. This newly-opened Japanese owner’s shop has special contacts with suppliers of high quality ingredients such as Wagyu, including Kobe-beef and fresh organs, which are popular items for Japanese clients. Their reasonable lunch sets are also worth trying. Located along the river, this trendy restaurant decorated in red and black is where you can see groups of young executives grill their food at the table with a specialized cooker.

14 Mohamed Sultan Rd. Tel: 6235-8216 6pm-11pm

All Day Yakiniku Set $38 *minimum order 2 pax Lunch Menu from $10 Special Curry $10 Tenpura Set $15 Sashiimi Bowl $24

TAMAYA DINING JAPANEASE CUSINE Enjoy a wide selection of Japanese food at in Izakaya style

Wagyu Sukiyaki Sashimi Calfornia Maki Tempura Mentaiko Pasta Iron Pot Rice

$68 $29.80 $11 $18 $18.70 $12.80

150 Orchard Rd. #03-25/30 Orchard Plaza Tel: 6732-8719 Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm 6pm-12am Sat & Sun 6pm-12am

Tamaya serves wide range of original Japanese ‘Izakaya’ menu, from charcoalgrilled, claypot rice to various dishes, using the seasonal ingredient. We have also prepared wide range of Japanese sake, shochu and wines from a very reasonable price to premium ones to go with your food. At ‘Nakasei’ sushi bar on the 1st ﬂoor,our chef with 34 years of experience in creating Japanese delicacies, will be presenting his skills with the freshest ingredients which are delivered direct from Japan thrice weekly. We have 4 private rooms (for 4-14 guests) and a private function area with traditional horigotatsustyle tables (up to 40 guests),and open air(partially smoking) area for your business or private occations 45 Cuppage Terrace Tel. 6835 3539 Mon to Sat 6.00pm to 11.30pm( LO.) Sun & PH 4.00pm to 10.30pm(LO.)

*Terms & Conditions apply to all promotions. Ask the staff for details

40/40A Boat Quay Tel: 6438-8072 Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm 6pm-11pm Sat, Sun & PH 6pm-11pm

Miracle Japan Project Restaurants List Ao Chan Chanko Nada Hachi Hoshigaoka Ji Biru Miz Sansui

Bunji Shabuhana Sushiya no Meii Tamaya Dining Tomi Sushi Watami Yakiniku Hana Tora Sandaime

and special thanks to

Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant

wants to be Whoa connoisseur?

A Study of Japanese Cuisine vol.4

SOB A 蕎麦

More than just noodles, Soba is a

deeply ingrained aspect of the Japanese life that can be found nationwide.

A noodle dish made from buckwheat, there are generally two ways to serve Soba. One is to be eaten cold with a dipping sauce such as ‘Morisoba’ and ‘Seiro’, and the other is to be eaten warm in a ‘Kakesoba’ broth. While they are usually served at affordable and casual standingonly shops, they are also served at exclusive restaurants as part of a course meal. Soba is the one of the most common and popular foods in Japan. In the cold upland areas, rice production is low while buckwheat is relatively easy to grow. In the old days, farmers grew buckwheat to prepare for famines. Originally, Soba was eaten in the shape of dumplings by grinding the buckwheat into ﬂour. The Soba noodles which we recognise today were originally served in temples for visitors during the early Edo Period (16031867). With the advent of food stalls and restaurants specialising in Soba noodles, this version soon spread among the common people. It is said that they were eaten as a light meal.

Soba Trivia

There are many varieties of Soba noodles, including ‘Juwari Soba’ which is made from 100% buckwheat flour, and ‘Nihachi Soba’ which includes 20% of wheat flour to make it easier to knead. Some people make special noodles by adding yam or eggs to make it more elastic. There are also different types of buckwheat ﬂour that can be used to make the noodles. These include ‘Sarashina’ that’s made from freshly-ground buckwheat berries, black ‘Inakasoba’ with a strong aroma made from buckwheat shell and ‘Yabusoba’ that uses pellicles of the buckwheat fruit. The flavor of the noodles differ depending on the type of ﬂour you use. Each flavor has its own enthusiasts. According to tradition, a well-known gourmet novelist who was not willing to use either condiments or dipping sauce, loved Inakasoba solely because he could fully enjoy the original taste of buckwheat. Recent surveys show that Soba buckwheat noodles are very nutritious, and includes vitamin B, good protein, vitamin E

(useful for anti-ageing), rutin (effective for reducing the blood pressure and preventing cerebral haemorrhage) and choline (for strengthening liver function). In recent years, there has been a boom in healthy diets, and Soba-making classes are held all over Japan, attracting many people who not only like to eat, but also make the dish themselves.

Kamonanban

(hot soba noodle with duck meat)

Did you know…? Quick thing to cook at home

1. Toshikoshi-soba

In Japan, there is a custom of eating Soba noodles on New Year’s Eve, known as Toshikoshi-soba. Some people wish for longevity and good health in life by eating these symbolically long noodles. Others say that Soba is associated with bringing in money, as ancient artisan goldsmiths used a dumpling of buckwheat dough to collect scattered gold leaf in their studios.

2. Jindaiji-soba

Jindaiji Temple, located in Chofu city near Tokyo, is famous for Soba noodles. Its reputation stems from the custom of serving their visitors buckwheat noodles which were donated by neighboring farmers. When Tokugawa Iemitsu (the ruler of the Edo Shogunate) dropped by this temple on his way to hawk hunting, he admired the taste of them. Since then, Soba noodles were presented to the ruler every year, making them very popular. Till today, there are still a lot of Soba noodle shops that can be seen in front of this temple. Soba shop at Jindaiji

Soba ﬁeld, Togakushi, Nagano

You can easily ﬁnd dry buckwheat noodles at many supermarkets, so let’s prepare them at home. All you have to do is boil the noodles! Just mind not boiling the noodles for too long, which is important for making good soba. After boiling, drain the noodles well in a colander and rinse them quickly with tap water before draining them again. If you want cold noodles, you can soak noodles into cold water for a few minutes so that they have a good elasticity. A variety of readymade Soba Tsuyu (Broth) is available at supermarkets too. Sometimes, you’ll need to dilute the sauce with water; just follow the instructions on the bottle. The remaining Soba Tsuyu can be used for other dishes as a seasoning sauce. It is so convenient!

vol.

Japanese Recipes for Your Daily Table

HOME TREATS

Do you love Japanese food? Here are some popular home recipes that will never fail to delight family and friends.

夏野菜の揚げびたし

Assorted Deep-fried Vegetables in Cold Broth Cooking method Mix the ingredients of the seasoning sauce together. Cut each vegetable into bite-sized shapes. You have to soften the eggplants by soaking them in water, then wiping them dry. Before you cook the lady s ﬁngers, score them with the tip of the knife to prevent them from bursting during frying.

Using a variety of colorful vegetables makes this dish presentable as a perfect appetizer! 【Ingredients】For 4 pax 1 Japanese Eggplant 4 Lady s ﬁngers 1 Zucchini 4 Asparagus 1/2 Green & Colored pepper each 1/8 Japanese Pumpkin

Cooking tip

The main point is to wipe the vegetables dry before deep-frying [A]. When you see less bubbles coming from the vegetables in the oil while cooking [B], it is ready. Be careful not to overcook them!

[A]

Heat the cooking oil up to 170º and cook the vegetables one by one. It takes 3 minutes to cook the pumpkins, while the rest will take about 1 - 2 minutes.

[B]

【Seasoning sauce】 400cc Broth (seaweed or bonito) 50cc Soy sauce 50cc Mirin (Sweet Sake) Oil (Olive oil or grain oil)

After deep-frying, place the vegetables on a strainer to get rid of the oil completely [C]. Then soak them in the mixed seasoning sauce in the refrigerator to cool them down [D]. You can eat them 5 - 6 hours later. Preparing them the day before eating is also a good idea.

[C]

[D]

Recipe and Photos by Tadasuke Tomita - www.shirogohan.com His passion for cooking is so great that he quit his job at a big company to study at a culinary school, and became an apprentice at an authentic high end Japanese restaurant. Currently, he is working with a product development department of a Japanese processed food maker, while managing a personal website introducing traditional Japanese home cooking recipes. As his other hobby is photography, all the photos on his website are his own works.

Memo

You can also use other vegetables such as lotus roots, carrots, mushrooms and burdocks. 29

ď ś

$48++ with a free flow of lemongrass juice and soft drinks. ď ś $88++ with free flow of Singha draught beer and a specially selected French champagne.

Weekday Set Lunch Special $28++ per person

No. 45 Minden Road, Dempsey Hill, Singapore 248817 Tel (65) 6475 6088 Fax (65) 6476 5388 www.jimthompsonrestaurant.com 30

SHOPPING • SCHOOL • HEALTH & BEAUTY • OTHERS

JAPAN IN SINGAPORE PATCH MAGIC

Fashion made from retro Japanese kimono

Table runner and silk cushion made from Wedding gown, silk scarf made from Kimono

Silk blouses made from Kimono fabric

Beautiful and intricate kimono materials have been treasured for generations in Japan. They have been recycled and transformed to everyday items like blankets, chidren’s wear, etc. Such a magic continues at Patch Magic where kimonos are sewn into fashion wear and home accessories with reat care. Materials are sou reed by owner/designer Akiko Silva and made-to-order service is also available. She also sources fashion wear created by contemporary Japanese designers 1 Scotts Road #03-29 Shaw Centre Singapore 228208 Tel:6235-7710 HP:%17-1927 Mon-Sat 10:30 -18:30 Closed on Sun & P.H. Email: akiko.silva@pacific.net.sg

IKOMA LANGUAGE SCHOOL

Start learning Japanese

JAPANESE COURSES AVAILABLE JLPT Courses Japanese Conversation Classes Every day Japanese Language Usage Private Tuition

I ko m a L a n g u a g e S c h o o l i s registered with the Ministr y of Education as a Japanese Language school. Established in 19%, it is one of the biggest institutions teaching Japanese in Singapore, and is conveniently located in the central Orchard area. There are various courses including group classes and private lessons, from beginner to advanced level, with over 2,000 students currently studying Japanese. As they have Chinese and English classes at the same time, the school is a good platform to meet fellow students and exchange information about Japan. 350 Orchard Road #12-07 Shaw House Tel: 6238-0288 E-mail:jp@ikoma.com.sg www.ikoma.com.sg

DISCOVER

4 issues / Year

JA PA N

Only$8!

WONDERLAND JAPAN

CUISINE.CULTURE.TRADITON T R AV E L . E N T E R TA I N M E N T your details

DELIVERY

We will deliver WAttention to your home / office! *Subscription is non-returnable upon receipt *Please ﬁll out and fax to 6324-2161 or email to info@wattention.com. We will reply within a few days. *We will charge extra delivery fee if the delivery place is far from the city

Name Mr / Miss / Mrs Address / Postcode Company Name Designation Nationality Tel Email

Country

Fax

EVENT & INFORMATION

イベント＆インフォメーション

Japan’s No.1 girls’ pop group, AKB48 sets up base in Singapore Popular Japanese idol group, AKB48 sets up a shop that stocks their ofﬁcial merchandise imported from Japan at *SCAPE, while different sets of performers from AKB48 Theater “Live” Series AKB48 and sister bands will take Vol. 3 - SDN48, 1ST STAGE turns to put on a live show here 10th June, 2011 (Fri) twice a month. An AKB48 café, Vol.4 - AKB48, 3RD STAGE the ﬁrst in the world, will also 26th June, 2011 (Sun) open at the same premises by at *SCAPE (2 Orchard Link) the end of June, where fans can Tel: 6521-6565 enjoy Japanese dishes and desserts while watching video clips For ticketing information, of the group on the TV screen. please check www.akb48.com.sg

Japanese taiko drum sensation sets to tour TAO, Japanese taiko drum performance group, has progressively developed it own unique style from composition to performance. Breaking past the traditional notions of taiko, TAO continues to create and entirely new art form that is modern yet retains sense of nostalgia. The most anticipated show DRUM TAO “ART OF DRUM” of the year – DRUM TAO “ART OF Date: 1-3 September Thu & Fri 8pm DRUM” is set to tour Singapore for Sat 2:30pm & 8pm the ﬁrst time. Following their highly Venue: Esplanade Theatre Ticket Price: Standard - S$128, S$108, successful and critically acclaimed S$98, S$88, S$68 / VIP Box - S$128 / sell out World Tours and No.1 box Box B-G - S$128 / Restricted View - S$48 ofﬁce smash hit of the Edinburgh www.sistic.com.sg Fringe Festival.

“Tatsumi” premieres at the 64th Cannes Film Festival 2011

Right: Yoshihiro Tatsumi Left: Drector Eric Khoo

“Tatsumi”, directed by Eric Khoo, a renowned Singaporean film director, was viewed as the 13th animated feature to premiere at Cannes Official Selection. This unique 95-minute film in Japanese is based on the life and short stories of veteran manga artist, Yoshihiro Tatsumi, who revolutionized manga to achieve a breakthrough in comics called Gekiga, which elevated the genre to a whole new level of creative expression influenced by cinema. It showcases some of Yoshihiro Tatsumi’s most important stories written in the early seventies, as well as some episodes inspired by his autobiography. “It has been my dream for this to happen, for Tatsumi to premiere at Cannes Official Selection so that Yoshihiro Tatsumi, someone I truly admire and love, finally be on one of the biggest international platforms to share Gekiga, his life and stories with the entire world” said Eric Khoo.

Check out our new website!

www.wattention.com

YES Advertise with For more information, please contact us! miya@mangosteen.com.sg kiyota@mangosteen.com.sg

Specials

You can read special features from our latest issue; some articles have extra information which are exclusive to the website.

Trip to Japan

Ginza, Shinjuku, Kyoto, Niseko, Nyuto Onsen, Nikko, Okinawa and more! It’s a listing of 300 sightseeing sites, 60 cities / area information, event information and transportation.

and more articles about JAPAN!

BUSINESS

Corporation vol.2

Aisin Asia Pte. Ltd

A quality life with

“quality ﬁrst” principle One of TOYOTA group’s companies, AISIN offers wide range of products, including high-tech & high-quality mattresses. At the top of Aisin Seiki’s website homepage is a bold statement: “Since our very beginning, Aisin Seiki has been built on a long-standing dedication to its corporate principle of quality ﬁrst. Our activities for product assurance, customer satisfaction, social contribution, and our concern for the environment, are all based on this principle.” Aisin Seiki was established in 1965 under the TOYOTA group, with the merging of Aichi Kogyo and Shinkawa Kogyo as one of Japan’s most integrated automotive parts manufacturers. Since then, following the development of the auto industry, the company has contributed to the betterment of society by expanding its the operations globally and leveraging on their proprietary technologies and expertise in automotive parts to develop a different dimension of business, such as lifestyle- and energy-related sectors. Currently, Aisin Seiki produces a wide range of products covering various sectors including mattresses, sewing machines, GHPs- gas driven energy saving air-condi-

tioners / co-generators and welfare-related goods, as well as new business segments like laser fiber and biological apparatus alongside automotive parts. In Singapore, Aisin Asia introduces ASLEEP, a J-concept mattress from Japan, to the Asian market for the first time. ASLEEP is a successful private brand of Aisin, which was established in 2006. It was created as the result of a long search for the ideal sleep environment that came after working on the highest levels of technological capability as an automobile parts manufacturer. Now, ASLEEP ranks in the top 5 brands in Japan with about 10% market share. ASLEEP reflects the corporate principles of “quality first,” as it aims to provide a vibrant lifestyle through “high quality sleep”. Instead of the usual coil springs, ASLEEP J. concept mattress features a unique firm jellylike material called FINE REVO, which can match the subtle movements of the body with its flexibility and cushioning to support the body during sleep. Mr Masahiro Shiya, Managing Director of

Masahiro Shiya Managing Director

Aisin Asia says “ASLEEP was renamed from TOYOTA Bed, so the brand has 45 years of history. Our concept of quality sleep is embodied in ASLEEP. This is a unique Japan-made mattress developed with Asians in mind. It helps one to fall asleep easily through our research into human sleeping rhythm. We want everyone who used our mattress to sleep well, feel fresh and energetic for the next day work” Aisin Asia believes that the idea of ASLEEP would be appealing to the South East Asian market. After opening its ﬁrst showroom at Dozz in the Toa Payoh area in May 2011, the company is expanding into other Asian regions, building on the knowledge and marketing know-how acquired in Singapore.

Aisin Asia PTE. LTD 10 Anson Road #31-11/12 International Plaza Tel. 6222-0592 Aisin Seiki Co.,Ltd 2-1 Asahi-machi, Kaiya, Aichi Japan www.aisin.com

Living beautifully in natural daily rhythm

Asleep

4 criteria for high quality sleep

Turning / Sleeping posture / Body pressure distribution / In-bed environment Washable

-Clean & Hygienic Considering Japan’s high temperature and humidity, J. concept mattress is designed to be washable and quickdrying under the sun. That’s also effective in removal of mites, sweat and bacteria.

In J.concept mattresses, FINE REVO is placed in zigzag alignment inside a dedicated ﬂex bag. Eases necessary turnings. FINE REVO’s 3D flexible movement suppor ts body pressure distribution and make necessary turnings easily during sleep, which is important to transit smoothly between light and deep sleep and adjust sleeping rhythm. It also promotes blood circulation. Thereby, body exhaustion is reduced.

Seeking suitable firmness Most suitable firmness of mattress is depending on the physique and preference of each individual’s sleeping patterns. At Asleep showroom, staff offers to measure customer’s BMI (Body Mass Index) to find right one.

AÊleadingÊrecruitmentÊfirmÊinÊJapan. WeÊareÊRGF. WhoÊisÊRGF ?（RGFÊstandsÊforÊRECRUITÊGLOBALÊFAMILY） RecruitÊisÊaÊmajorÊJapaneseÊinformationÊservicesÊcompany withÊcorporateÊrecognitionÊofÊ98.1%. RecruitÊisÊaÊleadingÊcompanyÊwhichÊranksÊ4thÊinÊtheÊworld inÊsalesÊofÊHRÊservices. RecruitÊalsoÊenjoysÊaÊmarketÊshareÊofÊ50%ÊorÊmoreÊinÊJapan andÊprovidesÊsupportÊtoÊ280,000ÊcorporateÊclients. InÊtheÊfieldÊofÊservicesÊforÊrecentÊuniversityÊgraduates, nearlyÊ100%ÊofÊstudentsÊregisterÊwithÊourÊmedia!

3ÊAnsonÊRoadÊ#10-02ÊSpringleafÊTowerÊSingaporeÊ079909 Tel:Ê+65-6221-7437ÊE-mail:Êsingapore-jp@rgf-hragent.asia http://www.rgf-hragent.asia/