WAttention Malaysia Vol. 30

Malaysia Edition

Tokyo - Singapore - L.A - Taiwan - Thailand - Paris - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico - Australia

TA K E FREE

Autumn 2019 VOL.30 PP18029/03/2013 (033318)

Rediscover Niigata The Spectacular Temple Only in Ohara, Kyoto

T he wild side

Tokyo of

Love Japan? Follow

WAttention

暦 Koyomi November 23

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

新嘗祭

Ninamesai, Japanese thanksgiving

Fresh harvests of the season and sake are offered to gods and ancestors. 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

Ninamesai is one of the ceremonial rites held within the Imperial Palace, whereby the Emperor offers five types of grains, freshly harvested during the year, to the gods of nation building worshipped by the Shinto faith. It is one of the most important festivals within the palace where thanks and prayers for peace throughout the nation are offered to the gods and ancestors. Ninamesai harvest thanksgiving festivals to the gods then started taking 2

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place amongst the commonfolk, at local shrines and public spaces.

Respect is paid to Mother Nature with the heartfelt emotion that “this year’s bountiful harvest was made possible purely by god’s grace” and everyone celebrates in recognition of the hard work by those involved in agricultural work. As offerings to god, grains such as freshly-harvested rice, barley, beans and various vegetables are

presented at the altar. Sake is served to each other while in view of these offerings, as part of this prayer ceremony for a bountiful harvest next year.

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.

VOL.30

LAVISH GREEN JAPAN 02

In Harmony with the Seasons

05

Revisiting Tokyo A different side

08

Rediscover Niigata Best places to eat and have fun - Go on a nature adventure in Niigata - Travel through the nostalgic ambience - A bite of Niigata & souvenir

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The Spectacular Temple Only in Ohara, Kyoto

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NHK World JAPAN video on demand review

Publisher

Shuji Ozawa FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd 100.02.043, 129 Offices, Block J, Jaya One. No.72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia Tel: +603 9544 3938 E-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com

Editor in Chief Kunio Yasui

Editorial & Design WAttention Editorial Team Japan & Singapore

Photographer

Hajime Watanabe

Partners WAttention Co., Ltd, WAon Pte Ltd

Advertising inquiry in Malaysia Alden Chong ........ Graphic Designer Desmond Haw ..... Co-ordinator Yuji Ushijima ........ Co-ordinator

Japan Representive

Tel: +81-3-6418-5701 Fax: +81-3-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com

On my watchlist

WAttention is a publication of FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonafide information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law. The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher. Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

This publication and the name are owned solely by FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd, 100.02.043, 129 Offices, Block J, Jaya One., No.72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia, e-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com WAttention is published quarterly and distributed throughout Malaysia.

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食べる・飲 む・遊ぶ・楽し む 新潟を再発見

Rediscover

Awashimaura Village Murakami City

Sado Airport

Niigata

Shibata City

Niigata Station Niigata City Tsubame City

Tsubamesanjo Station

Izumozaki Town Nagaoka Station

Best places to eat, and have fun

Joetsumyoko Station

Itoigawa Station Hokuriku Shinkansen Line

Niigata Airport

Sado City

Myoko City

Niigata Map

Urasa Station

Tokamachi City GALA Yuzawa Station

Nagaoka City

EchigoYuzawa Station

Yuzawa Town

Joetsu Shinkansen Line Kyoto

Sendai

Tokyo Osaka

Known as Japan’s No. 1 producer of rice, Niigata is only 108 minutes away from Tokyo by Shinkansen.

Aside from rice, the prefecture is endowed with spectacular countryside scenery, the natural beauty of the changing seasons, mouthwatering seafood and fragrant sake. Follow our footsteps as we embark on a journey to Niigata for a feast for the eye and mind.

Ways to Niigata Prefecture：

Go on a

nature adventure Visit peaks from the 100 famous mountains of Japan Located in Niigata’s Myoko City, both Mt. Myoko and Mt. Hiuchi are listed under the 100 famous Japanese mountains. The amazing mountain biodiversity is perfect for those seeking inspiration, relaxation and a challenge. We suggest that you visit Koyaike for a panoramic view of Mt. Hiuchi, and if you’re still up for a challenge, try climbing Mt. Myoko. You can also take the Myoko Kogen Sky Cable to the foot of the mountain for a soothing dip in the 200-year-old Akakura hot spring.

From Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Currently, there are no direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Niigata Airport. You can also book a connecting flight to Niigata or use the Shinkansen service after arrival at all domestic airports.

From Tokyo Both the Joetsu Shinkansen and Hokuriku Shinkansen connect Tokyo to Niigata.

Editor’s

Pick

Editor’s Recommendation The JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) is a flexible five-day pass you can use on any five days within a 14-day period starting from the date of purchase. Travel from Tokyo to Niigata has never been easier with the JR EAST PASS! Niigata official website enjoyniigata.com

Akakura hot spring is the place to regain energy and refresh the soul after an exhausting climb!

Sasagamine Kogen Hiking Gate

National cultural festival to kick off in Niigata Japan’s largest cultural celebration—the “National Cultural Festival” and the “National Arts and Cultural Festival for Persons with Disabilities”—will be held in Niigata for the very first time this autumn. Experience a variety of events showcasing the diversity of Niigata, as well as performances by cultural groups from all around Japan.

Festival period: Sep 15-Nov 30

Access: Take the direct bus from Myoko Kogen Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway bound for Sasagamine Kogen and get off at Sasagamine. *Please refer to the Myoko Tourism official website for an updated bus schedule.

*Please note that attempting Mt. Myoko and Hiuchi at the same time requires experience and optimal physical condition.

Website: myokotourism.com/ sasagamine/ Myoko Kogen Sky Cable Operation period: mid-July to early November Hours: weekdays: 8am-4pm (last ride up 3.30pm); weekends and holidays: 8am-4.30pm (last ride up 4pm) Fee: Junior high school students and above: ¥1,300 one way and ¥1,800 round trip; elementary school students and under ¥700 one way and ¥900 round trip Website: akr-sky.com (Japanese)

in Niigata

An island paradise waiting for you to discover Awashima is a tiny island with a population of less than 400. In spite of this, it is full of marine resources and charming vistas. The 23-kilometre cycling path takes you on a scenic ride around the entire island, allowing you to take in Awashima’s sights and sounds.

The island is a paradise for outdoor activities such as bird watching, horse riding, sunbathing, scuba diving and more. By the way, watching fixed-net fishing, catching octopuses and making traditional dish wappani are experiences you don’t want to miss in Awashima.

Access: Iwafune Port is a 15-minute drive from Murakami Station on the JR Uetsu Main Line. You can also take a bus from Murakami Station, get off at Iwafunekamioomachi Stop and walk for 10 minutes to the port. The high-speed boat bound for Awashima takes about 55 minutes and the normal boat takes 90 minutes.

Website: awa-isle.jp (Japanese)

Wappani わっぱ煮

To cook this simple yet flavourful dish, just place the grilled fish, chopped green onion and miso paste in a bowl made out of curved wood, and then add water and heated stones to the bowl.

The tub boat ride scene from the famous animation Spirited Away has brought the tradition of taraibune alive again

Boating experience straight out of an animation movie The history of using tub boats for fishing (tarai-bune) in Sado Island dates back to 150 years ago. In the past, the islanders used to cut wash tubs or miso barrels in half to make boats for fishing seaweed, shellfish and abalone. Although few people use tub boats for fishing today, tourists are encouraged to sign up for a fun steering course at the ports of Ogi, Yajima and Kyojima or Shukunegi.

Niigata is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, such as enduring mountain ranges and the longest river in Japan— the Shinano River. While nature lovers can have a blast exploring out-oftown spots, sports enthusiasts may choose to enjoy paddling away in a traditional tub boat on Sado Island.

Niigata is a natural theme park for all ages and for all seasons!

Yajima Taiken Koryukan Access: A 70-minute drive from Ryotsu Port Website: visitsado.com/en/spot/detail0039/

Image provided by Tokamachi Tourist Association

With a total length of 367 kilometres, Shinano River is Japan’s longest river, flowing through the prefectures of Yamanashi, Saitama, Nagano and Niigata before reaching the ocean. The middle reach of the water travels through Tokamachi City, a popular rafting spot offering both adrenalin-pumping stretches as well as calm and relaxing rides. Hop on the rubber boat at designated areas for a cool dip in the clear waters!

Shinano River Rafting Tour

Available from mid-April to mid-November.

Closed on Thursdays (except in August the facility is open every day) Fee: ¥6,000 for elementary school students and ¥7,000 onwards for middle school students and above Access: A 20-minute drive from Tokamachi Station on the Hokuetsu Express Hokuhoku Line Image provided by Tokamachi Tourist Association

A day of adventure right in the middle of nature

Address: 4197 Miyanakaonore, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture Website: www.j-os.jp/tours/rafting/tokamachi-hd (Japanese) *Reservations must be made two days in advance

Daigenta Canyon, the area stretching from Lake Daigenta to the foot of Mt. Daigenta, is a popular campsite and favorite destination for tourists drawn to its diverse geographic features. The 1.5-kilometre path at Lake Daigenta offers a stunning view of the Oriental Matterhorn—Mt. Daigenta. Canoeing and stand up paddling (SUP) are popular water activities that you simply must try.

Image provided by Tokamachi Tourist Association

Daigenta Canyon Camping Ground Fee: Please refer to the official website as the rental fee depends on rental period and items rented Address: 3064-17 Oaza-tsuchitaru, Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata Prefecture Access: A 20-minute drive from Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen. You can also board a bus at the station bound for the campground, which takes about 30 minutes.

Website: daigenta.net (Japanese) YOC Yuzawa Outdoor Center Address: Daigenta Canyon Camping Ground, Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata Prefecture Website: daigenta.net/yoc/index.html (Japanese)

Endless terraced fields and countryside views The terraced fields in Niigata’s Tokamachi City, especially in the areas of Matsudai and Matsunoyama, is a breathtaking scene that lingers in one’s mind. It has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 most famous countryside views. Lush green hues in spring slowly turn into golden colors in autumn, creating different wonders for the eye every season. While here, why not book a night with a local B&B to experience a day in the life of a farmer and experience authentic Japanese hospitality?

Hoshitoge Rice Terrace Access: A 20-minute drive from Matsudai Station on the Hokuetsu Express Hokuhoku Line Website: tokamachishikankou.jp/en/nature/

HOME away from HOME Niigata

Image provided by Tokamachi Tourist Association

Website: homehome.jp/en/

Travel through

the nostalgic

ambience Strolling down the hot spring street Tsukioka hot spring in Niigata’s Shibata City was discovered by chance in 1915 during an oil drilling operation. The water, in the colour of emerald green, can reach a high of 51 degrees Celsius. As it is slightly alkaline and hypotonic, it is hailed for its beautifying and therapeutic effects. There are quite a few boutiques on both sides of the hot spring street where you can get your hands on locally produced rice and Japanese wine.

By the way, soaking your feet in the free foot bath is a nice way to relax after a long walk.

Access: A 20-minute shuttle bus ride from Toyosaka Station on the JR Hakushin Line Website: tsukiokaonsen.gr.jp/en/

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic castle town The term jokamachi, or castle town, refers to a type of city that developed around the feudal lord’s castle in the past. Take a walk down jokamachi Murakami to discover historic shops that are still in business and an area where temples and traditional restaurants sit alongside each other. The nostalgic black fence street, castle ruins and samurai residences all come together to tell the story of the city’s glorious past. While here, don’t forget to sample tea and salmon dishes - local specialties that highlight Murakami’s rich culture.

Access: Transfer to JR Uetsu Main Line from Niigata Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen and get off at Murakami Station Website: sake3.com/en/ Thousand-year-old Salmon Kikkawa Hours: 9am-6pm Access: A 25-minute walk from Murakami Station on the JR Uetsu Main Line or a 7-minute drive from the station Address: 1-20 Oomachi, Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture Website: www.murakamisake.com (Japanese)

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In Japan, a castle town usually consists of castle ruins, samurai residences, machiya and teramachi.

Machiya refers to the traditional townhouses built to accommodate businessmen and craftsmen.

Teramachi, which is usually located outside the castle, is an area for temples and shrines. Murakami City is one of the few castle towns that have preserved the above four elements.

What is JOKAmachi? 城下町とは?

Become a gold Miner in Sado Sado, the world’s largest mine in the Edo period (1603-1868), continued its operation until 1989, when it was shut down due to resource depletion. Over 400 years of mining business brought prosperity, opportunity and progress to this remote island. Though the town has declined over the subsequent years, visitors can visit Sado Kinzan Gold Mine and Kitazawa Floatation Plant to imagine the good old days. The clock tower, government office and stores in the Kyomachi-dori area have been restored to their original state and are worth a visit.

Historic Site Sado Kinzan Gold Mine

Kitazawa Floatation Plant

Website: visitsado.com/en/spot/detail0098/

Website: visitsado.com/en/spot/detail0091/

Visit a forgotten town along the Sea of Japan

Niigata Prefecture, Japan’s top producer of rice, is often characterized by stretches of terraced fields and rustic countryside scenery.

Nevertheless, the old street of Niigata is also worth visiting for its amazingly nostalgic atmosphere that feels like a time warp into the past.

Tsumairi architectural strucure 妻入り建築とは?

Tsumairi is a traditional Japanese architectural structure where a building has its main entrance on one or both of the gabled sides. In the past, tax was levied according to the width of the frontage of the building. As a result, locals preferred to build their houses in the tsumairi style, thus giving rise to the unique cityscape of Izumozaki.

Izumozaki is a small town located along the Sea of Japan.

It became a tenryo, or land under the direct control of the Tokugawa shogunate, during the Edo period (1603-1868) because it serves as an important hub to the thriving gold and silver mining industry from the Sado Island to the mainland.

Kitamaebune, or north-bound ships traveling between Hokkaido and Kyoto, also made stops here, attracting a lot of business activities. Izumozaki’s past glory holds glimpsed of the tsumairi architectural structure.

Access: If you are departing from Kashiwazaki Station on the JR Shinetsu Main Line, transfer to the Echigo Line and get off at Izumozaki Station Website: www.izumozaki.net (Japanese)

Old street Lined with breweries Since Nagaoka City’s Settaya used to be a fief of Ueno’s Kanei Temple, the area was not subjected to the jurisdiction of the local feudal lord and thus enjoyed a relatively liberal atmosphere that was conducive for business activities. Most of the old buildings in the area consist of miso paste factories, soy sauce and Japanese sake breweries. Some are still in operation today, so if you are interested, get a tour map at the tourist center in Nagaoka station and explore away! lie fs ure d re T he colo -s a ff ron shu a in K t to found in nder no is a wo honpo se d! be mis

Access: A 10-minute walk from Miyauchi Station on the JR Shinetsu Main Line Website: niigata-kankou.or.jp/experience/13238 (Japanese)

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Niigata—the rice kingdom of Japan

1 2 Editor’s

Editor’s

Pick

Niigata’s Koshihikari rice is best known for its aroma, chewy texture and sweetness that fills the mouth with each bite. When in town, you must not miss the chance to enjoy a bowl of steaming rice. To enhance the flavour of rice and create a harmony of taste, the locals have developed a variety of side dishes to go with it. Here are our recommendations.

Pick

KaguranaNban miso

Picked blowfish ovary

¥650 / Asahi Shouzi

¥1.944 / Sudakasuke Shoten

Kagurananban is a kind of hot chili pepper with an appearance that has been likened to traditional Kagura masks.

Originating in the Nagaoka area, the vegetable-based miso paste is a traditional seasoning that goes perfectly with rice.

After pickling it in salt for two years and rice bran for another year, the detoxified blowfish ovary releases a sweet flavor that has been treasured by people of Sado since the Edo period. Although every household used to have its own recipe, there is only one shop remaining on the island dedicated to passing on this heritage.

A bite of The secret to Niigata’s rice—especially the famous rice variety Koshihikari—lies in melted snow and run-off water which contain an abundance of nutrients and

Sample juicy grilled seafood skewers Seafood from Izumozaki is highly regarded by many Japanese cooks.

Hamayaki, or bamboo skewered fish grilled directly on the beach, is a local delicacy that is now sold mostly indoors. Originally used as a method to preserve freshly-caught fish, Hamayaki stalls were once a common sight on the beach. As excess fat drips off, the seafood becomes less greasy, healthier and tastier. Only a few eateries offer this traditional taste nowadays.

Ishii Seafood Shop Hours: 8am-5pm (or until sold out) Address: 475 Hagurocho, Izumozaki Town, Santo-gun, Niigata Prefecture

Gobble up fresh seafood at sakana no ameyoko Located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, Nagaoka’s Teradomari is a famous fishing port with a cluster of seafood restaurants lined along National Highway No. 402. Not only will you find locally caught fish at Sakana no ameyoko, but also a variety of seafood from across Japan is transported here on a daily basis. Some of the must-trys include seafood donburi, grilled seafood and banyajiru, or literally “soup of the guardian house” in Japanese.

Hours: 8.30pm-5pm (the facility opens 30 minutes earlier on Sundays) Access: Take a bus headed in the direction of Sakaimachi or Oonotsumi from Nagaoka Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen for 60 minutes and get off at Sakana-no-ichiba-dori Stop Website: enjoyniigata.com/en/detail/page/detail/5113

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Access: A 50-minute bus ride from Nagaoka Station on the Joestu Shinkansen or a 10-minute bus ride from Izumozaki Station on the JR Echigo Line Website: hamayaki.biz/index.html (Japanese)

What is banyajiru? 番屋汁とは?

In the past, this hearty soup was cooked by fishermen at the guardian house (banya) to fill empty bellies. The soup contains fish cut into small pieces, seasonal vegetables, crabs, and miso paste for additional flavouring.

3 Editor’s

Pick

Salmon bones cooked in soy sauce ¥1,037 / Kikkawa The history of eating salmon in Murakami dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), giving rise to over 100 ways of preparing salmon in the locality. Not only the fish meat, but also the skin, bone and innards are all used as cooking ingredients. Salmon bones skillfully cooked in soy sauce and rice wine mirin is an example of how well the locals make use of nature’s blessings.

Souvenir A different

rice experience

Iwappara Matsu-en-don is a restaurant run by local rice farmers who insist on using home-grown Koshihikari rice and flour to make the one-and-only brown rice bagel hamburger. Topped with freshly picked vegetables and marinated chicken fillet, the dish is an invention in itself.

Iwappara Matsu-en-don Hours: 10am-2pm (L.O. 2pm), 5pm-9pm (L.O. 9pm), closed on Thursdays Access: A 10-minute walk from Iwappara Ski Resort Station on the JR Joetsu Line Address: 2F Pisute Yuzawa Building, 252-2 Tsuchidaru, Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata Prefecture Website: miwanouen.net/iwappara.html (Japanese)

Niigata

Niigata-only sweets

“Kasen-jouki” is a famous Niigata-only sweet. Made with special Japanese red bean cream sandwiched in a soft fluffy brown sugar pancake, this has been a firm favourite in Niigata for over 30 years, and a hidden gem among the plethora of souvenir sweets available all over Japan.

Where to buy: “Niigata Confectionary Workshop Saikatei” stores across Niigata Prefecture Website: www.saikatei.net (Japanese)

Onigiri-shaped rice crackers

minerals. The area is also known for producing prestigious sake and fresh, high-quality seafood thanks to its location on the coast of the Sea of Japan.

Rice has never tasted so good Kamameshi, a traditional rice dish cooked in an iron pot called kama, is one of the traditional dishes of Tsubame City.

Koshihikari rice and seasonal vegetables are simmered in fragrant broth made using natural kelp, bonito flakes and shiitake mushrooms to bring out the full flavour of each ingredient. Trust me, the smell of freshly cooked rice billowing from the pot alone is enough to make you salivate with hunger!

These crackers are made with Koshihikari rice flour and are shaped like adorable little onigiri. They have become a popular souvenir in recent years and are available in 5 flavours: Gomashio (sesame seeds and salt), Umeshiso (plum and perilla leaf), ginger-vanilla, onigiri and chocolate. Not only are they delicious, but also contain an irresistible rice fragrance. Perfect for souvenirs or as a treat for yourself.

Where to buy: LE POÊLON BIS Website: www.le-poelon-bis.com (Japanese)

The pride of Niigata Tsubame-Sanjo’s metal craft

Kamameshi Shogetsu Hours: 11am-2pm, 5pm-10pm, closed on Mondays Access: A 10-minute walk from Nishitsubame Station on the JR Yahiko Line Address: 227 Sakuramachi, Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture Website: tsubame-kankou.jp/buy_eat/ (Japanese)

The Tsubame-Sanjo area is known throughout Japan for its metalworking craftsmen. The traditional techniques used to produce hammered Tsuiki copperware in Tsubame City and Wakugi ( Japanese nails) in Sanjo City are now used to produce metal kitchen utensils and lifestyle products. These beautiful, yet practical items are a statement to the quality craftsmanship that has gone into producing them.

Where to buy: TSUBAMESANJO Regional Industries Promotion Center, “TSUBAMESANJO Wing”(Tourism Product Center at Tsubamesanjo Station) Website: www.tsjiba.or.jp/kankou/english/index.html www.tsubamesanjo.jp/wing/index.html (Japanese) The information is current as of September 2019 WAttention Malaysia |

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If you have ever wanted to live out a movie, Universal Studios JapanTM is the place to be. Wander around Hogsmeade as you sip on Butterbeer, or lose yourself in the exciting world of Jurassic Park. Come September, make your way inside the park and expect to have a ton of fun dressing up and living out an unimaginable Halloween experience at Universal Surprise Halloween. Universal Surprise Halloween is an event that is extremely popular and only runs for a limited period of time, from September 6 to November 4. This year, Universal Surprise Halloween not only sees a record number of new attractions added to the mix, 3 Halloween experiences - “Three Halloweens: Screaming Halloween”, “Otona Halloween” and “Kowa Kowa Halloween” have also been scaled up throughout the theme park. With at least 7 new attractions and 3 massive expansions, both adults and children can be sure to have a hauntingly good time all day long!

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江戸の食 文化

The Lasting Flavor of Edo’s Culinary Culture - A Sense of Japanese History and Culture in Every Bite Area Special

渋谷散歩 渋谷散 歩

SHIBUYA UNABRIDGED 浅草 お台場 神楽坂 新宿

Another 3hr Trip

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THE JAPAN BEYOND

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Ingredientes y Platillos de Temporada Pioneros de la Cocina Japonesa en México: Chef Takeji Murakami

Cultura y Viajes

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Spring 2019

กุมภาพันธ์ - เมษายน

ISSN 2539-620X

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What is WAttention?

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

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

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

2012.10 launched

Check out our website at

www.wattention.com

Reviewer

Shawn NHK WORLD-JAPAN offers free-to-view programs that introduce lesser known sights in Japan as well as informative educational shows. Aside from English, a total of ten other languages are available, making the programs accessible to people from all around the world.

Core Kyoto

Shawn is a Singaporean who loves travelling and his favourite country is Japan. Roaming the streets and taking in the lively city vibes, or simply wandering around the old towns are some of his favourite things to do in Japan.

Tatami - More than just flooring!

Tatami: The Flooring Underlying Japanese Culture

To many visitors in Japan, staying in a ryokan (旅館)in Kyoto is the best way to experience the centuries-old culture of sleeping on Tatami floors. Little

Duration: 28 mins

beknownst to these visitors is how tatami has shaped the way of life in Japan.

Tatami became widespread in the imperial capital of Kyoto in the 1300s, with the development of court culture and aristocracy. It was originally a luxury item for the nobiles; the thickness and pattern of each tatami differed according to the social status of the people who used them.

We are shown how a tatami is made, and how each piece of tatami is customised and fitted to maximise comfort of the rooms. Every tatami is a work of art; meticulously hand woven to perfection. There is so much effort behind creating every piece of tatami!

The tatami was later adopted into regular homes in the 1800s, influencing many traditions in Japan. One of which was the tea ceremony, and I was intrigued to learn that the placement of tatami was different between seasons.

Positioning of the portable brazier and utensils, and even seating of guests

Placement of utensils on the tatami in a tea ceremony

depended on the tatami.

Watch this episode now!

So much tradition is embedded in this simple looking tatami. I hope that the Kyoto Tatami Technical College will continue imparting this tradition to future

Available till 30 May 2020

generations so the technique of creating and repairing this flooring will not be lost with time.

Anime Supernova

Pursuing Animation That Feels Odd Duration: 15 mins

A different kind of animation!

Any anime fan would know that anime artwork is not easy. While beautiful animation may easily gain attention, have you ever wondered about unusual animation?

AC-bu is a team of 2 creators who have a unique style of artwork. They realized that bad drawing could intrigue people and pursued that direction for their animation. To that effect, their creations have become famous for being different. AC-bu’s style has 3 elements - first being bad drawing, in other words being intentionally ugly. Second - creating their works together with their audience, which involves high-speed picture story performing. Thirdly, an art expression that surpasses the imagination of the viewer; for instance, an illusion consisting of separated body parts layered to look as a whole.

After watching some of their animation, I must agree that AC-bu’s creations do create interesting cognitive dissonance in their viewers and led me to ponder on how we should learn to appreciate some differences in life. Watch the video to see their intriguing art form yourself!

AC-bu presenting one of their high speed picture stories

Watch this episode now!

Available till 18 June 2020

NHK WORLD-JAPAN is the international service of Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK. Get the latest news and updates from Japan on TV, via our free App or on our website.

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