Kansai Scene #187 December 2015

Free Monthly Guide covering Osaka • Kyoto • Hyogo • Nara • Wakayama • Shiga

Dec 2015 • issue 187

Magnificent Mount Koya 荘厳なる高野山 10 Fun Christmas Gift Ideas Kobe’s Taste of Australia A Picnic With a Difference

www.kansaiscene.com

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Inside this Issue 08

Kansai Scene provides monthly English articles, information and listings for visitors and residents of the Kansai area.

Enlighten your mind and spirit this winter with a trip to Koyasan, the Buddhist village celebrating its 1,200th birthday.

Feature

Publisher............................................Daniel Lee Managing Editor..............Celia Polkinghorne Editor............................................. Jason Haidar

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Production Assistant..............Miyoko Morita Accounts Manager...................... Michiko Lee

Christmas Stocking Solutions

Feature

Art.........................................................Yuko Hirai Event & Festival..........................Yuki Uchibori

Text: Celia Polkinghorne

No need to strain your brain for present ideas this Christmas!

We’ve made a list of 10 fun and quirky possibilities.

Production Manager...................Misa Matsui

Cinema....................................... Deanna Wright

A Winter Pilgrimage

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Text: Robert Kodama

True-blue Tucker Kangaroo burgers, crocodile nuggets, and other Aussie delicacies await you at The Rock in Kobe.

Live Music................................. Phillip Jackson Club................................................... Terumi Tsuji

Promotional Feature

Contact Kansai Scene General

mailbox@kansaiscene.com

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Advertising sales@kansaiscene.com 06-6539-1717

Fax.

06-7635-4791

Address

Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Mojoworks KK

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A BIT OF HISTORY Kansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011.

Foodspotting Warm up your winter mornings at one of these three Kansai breakfast havens.

Food & Drink

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If you would like to write for KS, please contact editor@kansaiscene.com after reviewing our writers guidelines: kansaiscene.com/write-for-us

DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. We take no responsibility for the quality or content of advertisements. Public and private parties appproached by those claiming to work for or on behalf of Kansai Scene should call this office to confirm the truth of any such claim, especially where money may be involved.

Text: KS

Language

Website kansaiscene.com

Write for Kansai Scene

Temple Stay Tips What to do at the genkan and how to tie your yukata – everything you need to know before your first shukubo.

Editorial editor@kansaiscene.com Tel.

Text: Clare Midgley

Text: Janelle McNeill

Hungry for Good Beats A Kyoto-based sound artist and his crew descend on locations around Kansai ready to make tracks, and eat lunch.

Feature

Text: Nick Breen

What’s on Around Kansai Cinema p29 Events & Festivals

p25

Art

p30

Live Music

p32

Club

p36

Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Classifieds p40

Photo: Jason Haidar

About Kansai Scene

ON THE COVER: This month’s cover shot was taken by Jason Haidar at Koyasan’s Okunoin graveyard in Wakayama.

Maps p44

Connect with Kansai Scene…

Catch up with KS on social media

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Got some news or need some advice about living in Kansai?

Out & About

Email your suggestions to editor@kansaiscene.com

Minoh Waterfall. Photo by Celia Polkinghorne.

Send us your best seasonal shots to photo@kansaiscene.com and win a KS t-shirt if selected!

Umeda Snowman Festival 2015!

Until Christmas day, Umeda will once again come alive with snowmen! Hundreds of wintery characters of all shapes and sizes lie in wait for you at various department stores, shopping malls, hotels, and hidden corners of Umeda to get you in the festive spirit.

The festival also features a variety of events, concerts, and workshops all loosely connected to the snowman theme. Vote for your favorite snowman in the Snowman Election or take some creative snowman shots and enter the Catch the Snowman photo contest for a chance to win some prizes. There will be a live choral performance from 5:30pm on Dec 23 on the 5F of the Osaka Station City Bldg.

Nov 21–Dec 25 • umeda-connect.jp

Writers in Kyoto Writing Competition The Writers in Kyoto group started in April this year running creative writing and reading sessions, and organizing talks from writers such as Karel Van Wolferen, author of The Enigma of Japanese Power. The group has recently secured sponsorship for their first writing competition and have plans to publish an anthology next summer. For details about the competition, please visit their website: writersinkyoto.com/2015/07/writing-

competition

2016 ARK Calendars Out Now! The Animal Refuge Kansai 2016 calendar is now on sale. These calendars make great gifts, and sales can usually cover ARK’s vet bills for a year. It’s one of the easiest ways to support their work for homeless and abandoned animals. It’s also an excellent introduction to those unfamiliar with what a shelter does. The wall calendar type (¥1,000) features photos taken by professional photographer Kyoko Harada, and the desktop type (¥800) features images taken by ARK staff. For more details and to order, visit arkbark.net or email calendar@ arkbark.net

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

KS Family Hallowen Party Trick-or-treat, spooky crafts, and costume fun at Lingua World Cafe.

Party Report  Oct 31

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Cover Feature

Magnificent Mount Koya Seeking enlightenment for the New Year? Consider a winter pilgrimage to Koyasan, the Japanese headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, which this year celebrates its 1,200th anniversary.

Text: Celia Polkinghorne • Images: Jason Haidar

 For the past 1,200 years, the quaint temple village of Koyasan has sat quietly up in Wakayama’s misty Kii Mountain Range; a training ground, sanctuary, and home for Shingon Buddhist monks, and a tranquil retreat for a handful of visitors looking for a place to quieten the mind and escape the urban rat race.

This secluded six-by-three-kilometer mountain prayer ground has lured pilgrims on their path to enlightenment since its establishment 1,200 years ago by Kukai (774–835), the eighth patriarch of Shingon Buddhism, posthumously known as Kobo Daishi (Grand Master). Even today, followers of the Shingon Buddhist sect will make the journey along the Koyasan choishi-michi, a 24-kilometer path from the base of the mountain to the mausoleum of founder Kobo Daishi in Okunoin graveyard. This spiritual mountain village was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.

This recognition, however, has brought with it floods of curious visitors, and coupled this year with local and national promotion of the area as part of its 1,200-year celebration, Koyasan has become a true tourist hotspot. But don’t be dismayed – there is more than enough enlightenment to go around.

It is, however, a good idea to pick your time to visit wisely.

While eager crowds now flood the tiny town in spring and autumn, eager to make the most of temperate weather while experiencing Mt. Koya in its seasonal colors, the cooler mountain-top temperatures in the summer also attract visitors seeking relief from heat and humidity. So if you’re prepared to bundle up, winter may just be your best bet for experiencing the original, still, quiet, meditative atmosphere of Koyasan.

“The snow is the best in December,” said Nobuhiro Tamura, a young monk at Eko-in temple. “Some photographers stay here for a week to wait for the December snow. In December it is light and powdery, but snow in January and February is wet, heavy, and muddy!

“But it is really cold, especially at night,” he warned. “You should definitely ask the temple you plan to stay at in advance about their heating situation,” advised the 31-year-old with a grin.

One flow-on effect of taking in more tourists over recent years is that many temple rooms have become equipped with a few more mod-cons, portable gas heaters included.

Another flow-on effect of the new wave of foreign tourism to Koyasan is that Nobu was granted an opportunity he wouldn’t otherwise have had – to find his calling as a monk at Eko-in temple.

“My case is unusual. Normally, the monks here, they are from temple families – Japanese monks get married. So it’s tradition for a son or daughter to take over the family temple, and if they want to do that, they have to come to Koyasan to study for some years first. But I’m quite unusual. I’m from a regular family.”

Nobu was born and raised in Kobe, and his father is a businessman. He became friends with the son of the head priest at Eko-in temple in high school, before spending a year and a half studying in the UK. The English he learned living in Europe proved to be an asset when his high-school friend’s priest father asked him to come and work a parttime job at Eko-in helping English-speaking guests.

“I needed to translate what the priest was saying to the guests, and while I was translating I learned a lot about Koyasan and about Shingon Buddhism. So one day the priest asked me, ‘Would you like to become a monk?’ So that’s how I became a monk,” explained Nobu proudly.

Approximately half of Koyasan’s 120 temples open their doors to visitors to stay overnight, allowing them a glimpse into the life of a monk, a chance to eat shojin ryori (traditional vegan temple cuisine), and take part in early-morning prayer sessions. Eko-in is the only temple in Koyasan that also conducts a goma (fire ritual) at 7:00 every morning (7:30 in the winter time) “to burn away sins and impurities,” informs Nobu.

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Booking a Temple Stay The official Koyasan reservation service (http://eng.shukubo.net) will not operate from Dec 26th Jan 5th so it is recommended to contact temples directly, or use another booking site such as Rakuten, JAPANiCAN, TripAdvisor, or booking.com Email ekoin@mbox.co.jp to make a reservation at Eko-in temple.

Area Highlights Okunoin – Japan’s oldest and largest cemetery situated at the very east end of the village (walking distance from the town center and all temples).

Konpon Daito (Main Great Stupa) – Coated in the blazing “shrine orange” color, this 48.5-meter tall structure stands out from the other wooden structures in the area. Said to be the first twostory pagoda in Japan, with the current reconstruction dating back to 1937.

Banryutei Garden – the largest rock garden in Japan (2,340 square meters). Made of 140 pieces of granite rocks, the design is of a pair of dragons emerging from a sea of clouds to guard the inner building.

Getting There from Osaka Nankai Koya Line from Namba Stn to Gokurakubashi Stn At Gokurakubashi, transfer to the cable car.

From the top station, take a five-minute bus ride into the town center.

To save money, consider using a Koyasan World Heritage Ticket or a Kansai Thru Pass.

Another unique Eko-in experience – Nobu takes his guests on night tours of the mysterious and enigmatic Okunoin cemetery, Japan’s oldest and largest graveyard. Holding more than 200,000 graves dating as far back as the 11th century, the picturesque burial ground stretches 1.9 kilometers from the entrance at Ichi-no-hashi bridge to founder Kobo Daishi’s place of final repose – a place where some believe he is still hidden away deep in meditation despite the passing of 1,200 years.

Rising out from behind and between mounted tombs, moss-covered gravestones, and torii gates on either side of the cemetery’s neatly paved paths are ancient cedar trees, thick and tall, that allow only patchy light to pass through, making the place tricky to photograph when the sun is out, but much easier under a cloud-covered winter sky.

Beautiful stone lanterns line the walkway that winds through the peaceful resting places of emperors, princes and princesses, and feudal Japanese samurai lords, including the graves of Japan’s three unifiers: Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. But you don’t have to be a famous historical figure to be buried at Okunoin, in fact you don’t even have to be Buddhist.

“If you like the philosophy of Kobo Daishi, you can have a tomb here.

Doesn’t matter if you are Christian or Buddhist, we don’t care at all. If you are rich or poor, we don’t care,” explained Nobu humbly. Although you do need a bit of cash to secure your slot – a standard three meter by three meter plot with the gravestone will set you back ¥3 million, and you can rent the space for 50 years. After 50 years your family can take it over as long as they make another contract and pay the going rate.

On his Okunoin tours, Nobu mixes in cemetery folklore with basic teachings of Shingon Buddhism. As for the fun folklore, Nobu tells three stories.

The first is that somewhere in Okunoin there is a rock that, if you put it to your ear, you can hear the sound of hell. “I don’t recommend you to try it,” chuckles Nobu.

The eeriest is about the Okunoin well. “There’s a well in the cemetery where some people, they can not see their reflection in the water. There’s nothing. It means they are going to be dead within three years.” If you’re fortunate enough to find your reflection in the well, you still have to pass the stairs test on the other side of it. The superstition is similar – if you trip and fall on the stairs, you are dead within three years. So if you opt for the night tour, wear decent shoes, and don’t forget your flashlight. 

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

荘厳なる 高野山 新しい年を悟りの境地で過ごしたいあなたには、 高野山への冬季巡礼をお薦めしよう。 2016年、真言宗の総本山は開山1,200年を迎える。 文：シーリア・ポーキンホーン 写真：ジェイソン・ハイダー

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

和歌山県にある高野山の古色蒼然とした 境内は、過去1,200年にわたって霧深い紀 伊山地の上に鎮座してきた。修行の場であ り、巡礼の聖地であり、真言宗の総本山で あり、都会での慌ただしい暮らしから抜けだ して心の平穏を求める人々のための瞑想の 場もである。 東西6km、南北3kmの広大な敷地に開 かれた山寺は、悟りを求める巡礼者たちの 目的地であった。高野山を開いたのは真言 八祖八代、死後に弘法大師の名を授けられ た空海（774〜835年）である。今日でも真 言宗の僧侶たちが町石道から全長24kmの 表参道を登り、高野山奥の院にある弘法大 師御廟を目指して巡礼をおこなう。 2004年、この聖なる山上の寺院はユネ スコ世界遺産に指定された。開山1,200年 を記念する地域や国ぐるみの宣伝活動も 手伝って、いまや高野山は物見高い訪問客 が押し寄せる正真正銘の一大観光地とな っている。 この地には、いつ訪れても人々を触発す る魅力がある。だから混雑にことさら失望す る必要もないのだが、それでも高野山を訪 れる時期は選んだほうが賢明だ。この小さ な宗教都市に人々が殺到するのは気候と景 色に恵まれた春と秋。夏もまた、暑さや湿気 から逃れられる避暑地として人気がある。す なわち、寒さに耐える覚悟と準備さえあれ ば、元来の高野山が持つ落ち着いた瞑想的 な雰囲気を体験できるベストシーズンは冬 ということになる。31歳になる恵光院の若 き僧侶、田村暢啓さんが冬の高野山の魅力 を説明してくれる。 「高野山の雪は12月がいちばん。その 雪を待って、12月に1週間も滞在する写真 家の方がいらっしゃるほどです。12月は軽 い粉雪ですが、1月や2月は湿ったドカ雪で 泥んこになりますよ」 それでもやはり夜の冷え込みには注意を したほうがいいと、田村さんは笑いながら 警告する。 「特に夜の寒さはこたえます。宿泊予定 の寺の暖房設備については、事前に確認し ておいたほうがいいでしょう」 増加する観光客を迎え招き入れるため、 多くの寺でポータブルガスヒーターなどの 最新設備が導入されるようになったのは喜 ばしいことだ。 そして近年のもうひとつの大きな変化と いえば、外国人観光客が増えたことである。 実はこの現象によって、田村暢啓さんにも 思いがけない運命が開けることになった。 彼が恵光院の僧侶という天職に出会ったい きさつは意外なものだった。 「私の来歴は変わっています。通常、高 野山に来る僧侶はみなお寺の跡継ぎ。日本

では住職の息子か娘が寺を継ぐのがならわ しで、そのためにはまず高野山で何年か修 行を積まなければなりません。でも私はごく 普通の家庭で生まれたので、事情がまった く異なるのです」 ノブこと田村暢啓さんは神戸で生まれ、 父親はビジネスマンという一般的な家庭で 育った。1年半の英国留学を経験したが、そ のヨーロッパ仕込みの英語力に目をつけた のが、高校時代からの友人の父親である恵 光院の住職だった。外国人客の対応役とし て、パートタイムで働きに来てくれないかと 頼まれたのだ。 「住職の言葉を通訳しなければならない ので、翻訳しながら高野山や真言宗のこと をたくさん学んだのです。そしてある日、 『 僧侶になる気はあるか』 と住職が訊ねてきま した。それで私は仏門に入ることを決心し たというわけなんです」 そんな自らの来歴を話す田村さんは、ど こか誇らしげだ。 高野山には約120軒の寺院があり、その およそ半数は宿泊を受け付けている。一般 客にとっては、僧侶の生活ぶりに触れ、精進 料理を味わい、朝のお勤めに参加するチャ ンスでもある。高野山で唯一、護摩法要をお こなっているのが恵光院だ。護摩は煩悩や 不浄を焼き払うための儀式。朝7時（冬季は 7時半）から毎日実施されているのだと田村 さんが教えてくれた。 恵光院ならではのユニークな体験はもう ひとつある。神秘的で謎めいた奥之院の墓 地を、夜間に田村さんが案内してくれるナイ トツアーだ。ここは日本最古かつ最大の墓 地として知られており、11世紀の古墓を含 む総勢20万基以上の墓がある。一の橋にあ る入り口から弘法大師が眠る御廟まで、壮 観な埋葬地が1.9kmも続く。死後千年以上 経った空海が、今でもこの墓地のどこかで 深い瞑想を続けていると信じる者もいる。 積み上げられ、苔がむした墓石。墓地の 両側にある鳥居。その背後の舗装された小 道の両側には、堂々たる杉の巨木が並ぶ。

そのため昼間でも光はまばらに差し込むば かりで、日が暮れてしまうと写真撮影が難し い。でも雲が垂れ込めた冬空の下なら、うま く撮影することができるのである。 美しい石灯籠が並ぶ歩道はくねくねと 曲がり、歴代の天皇、皇太子、皇女、大名ら が静かに眠る墓標を通り過ぎる。三大武将 として名高い織田信長、豊臣秀吉、徳川家 康の墓もここにある。だが奥之院に葬られ る人が、歴史的な有名人に限られているわ けではない。実際のところ、仏教徒である 必要もないのだと田村さんが慎ましやかに 説明する。 「弘法大師の思想に共感する方なら、こ こにお墓を建てることができます。キリスト 教徒でも、仏教徒でも、私たちはまったく区 別しません」 もちろん墓地を確保するために幾ばく かのお金は必要だ。3m四方の標準的な 区画が墓石付きで300万円。権利は50年 で、50年後に家族が契約更新の料金を支 払えばそのまま墓地を引き継ぐことがで きる。 田村さんの奥之院ナイトツアーは、墓地 の民俗学と真言宗の基本的な思想につい て教えてくれる。とっておきの民間伝承は3 つ。そのひとつは、奥之院にある岩の言い 伝えだ。その岩に耳をつけると、地獄の音が 聞こえてくるのだという。 「おすすめはしま せんけどね」と田村さんは笑う。そしていち ばん不気味なのは、奥之院の井戸にまつわ る言い伝えだ。 「この井戸を覗き込んで、もし水に映る 自分の顔が見えなかったら、その人は3年以 内に亡くなるという言い伝えがあるんです」 そして運良く井戸に映る自分の姿が見え ても、まだ安心はできない。井戸の反対側に ある階段を歩いて転んでしまったら、やはり 3年以内に死ぬというのだ。だから忠告して おく。ナイトツアーに参加するなら、 しっかり した靴で足元を固め、懐中電灯を忘れない ようにしよう。

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

 10 Best

Christmas Omiyage KS has scoured the streets and shopping arcades in search for the best Japanese gifts to send to folks and friends this Christmas.

Text & Images: Robert Kodama

Nightmare! Or so you might think... but finding interesting gifts for family and friends need not be the daunting task you once thought. Living in Japan exposes you to a range of quirky, and intriguing gifts that would be unique for anyone lucky enough to receive them. Here is a quick run down of captivating omiyage ideas that would be welcomed with open arms this Christmas!

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Christmas Cookies

¥480 each at The Earth Café, Nu+ Chayamachi

Food always comes to mind when Christmas is involved. Sweets, snacks, chocolates – you name it! Whether you’re looking for home comforts or to give the gift of a sugar fix, why not go for something Christmas themed? These scrumptious cookies with various Christmas decorations are the perfect stocking filler for those indulgent individuals!

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Retro Badges

¥200 each at Standard Bookstore

Christmas is all about children. Even for adults, it’s a good time to relive your childhood. Seeing these badges took me back to the times when every kid in school had their backpacks covered in them. Retro images of ketchup brands and movie icons are perfect for invoking anyone’s sense of nostalgia. For a more Japanese feel, I recommend the cute Japanese vegetable badges. You certainly won’t find those anywhere else!

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Ridley’s Harmonica

¥1,200 each at Te Te, Chayamachi

Japan is a culture known for taking great care of things and using them for a long time. That’s why this country is wonderful for finding good-quality retro items. The theme even continues over into making new items seem retro, and this resulted in me finding a brand new retro harmonica! They make a perfect first instrument for children (as opposed to the dreaded pianica!), or even for adults keen to learn a new instrument!

Imagine yourselves huddled around the Christmas tree, belting out Christmas songs at the top of your lungs, accompanied by someone on their new harmonica. Happy family moments!

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Picture Face Masks

¥300–¥800 each at ranKing ranQueen, Namba Station

For anyone who needs a facial treatment this Christmas, treat them to a Japanese one! Each face mask transforms the individual into a dog, cat, weird man, kabuki actor... you name it! The options are endless. What a great gift for those living abroad to get a taste of Japanese culture whilst getting a facial!

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

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Ema (wishing blocks)

from ¥500 each at Hozenji Temple, Namba

Most temples sell these beautiful blocks of wood called ema, on which people can write their wishes and leave them at the temple in the hope that whatever they write comes true. Though that’s their main purpose, they can certainly act as a creative alternative to your standard Christmas card. Send your friends and family a wish or a prayer this Christmas. Each block is printed with a beautiful image that represents Japan, and will no doubt be a memorable gift recipients won’t want to throw away.

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Japanese T-Shirt

¥900 each at ASOKO

Do you ever find it difficult to fit in? Have you ever been overly praised for doing something simple just because you’re foreign?

Perhaps you just want to become Japanese?

If you, or someone you know answered YES to any of those questions, then this is the perfect gift. With this simple, yet stylish T-shirt declaring your authenticity as a Japanese individual, you will finally blend in with the general public. Never again will someone be shocked that you can read hiragana. Never again will someone stare at you out of curiosity. Never again will someone shout out one thing they know about your country and end the conversation there. Declare yourself Japanese today!

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Animal Speakers

¥400 each at ASOKO

Christmas can be a difficult time with the pressures of buying expensive things on a limited budget. If you know anyone looking for a brand-new sound system this year, then look no further! These cute animal speakers can boost the sound from your phone to the room, and better yet – they don’t need to be plugged into anything! Just place your phone inside to enjoy.

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Fuchico on the Cup (Cup Ramen lid sitter)

¥1,100 each at Tokyu Hands

Cup Ramen is a Japanese staple, and there is no doubt that you have your favorites. But how many times have you suffered while trying to keep the lid shut as the hot water is doing its thing? Fuchico has the answer to all your cup ramen problems!

She will sit over your lid and keep it firmly shut, keeping the heat inside the cup and ensuring the food is cooked properly for your consumption.

If Fuchico isn’t your ramen girl, a quick walk around Nipponbashi will provide you with many alternatives.

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Food Sample Key Rings

¥480–980 each at Tokyu Hands

Many are in awe of those realistic food samples you can find at restaurants all over Japan. Some are even disappointed at the dish itself because the sample appears more mouthwatering.

This Christmas is your chance to grab a piece of the sample to keep your hunger at bay wherever you might go. A huge variety of these sample keyrings means that you can easily purchase a gift for anyone – a favorite Japanese dish is guaranteed to be available!

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Minoh Beer

Approx ¥410 each

For those who want convenience but can’t handle internet shopping, I have a great recommendation for you right here. Your local convenience store might be selling bottles of Minoh Beer. This is a perfect gift, especially for folks abroad who love their beer, to get a local taste of Osaka.

What’s Christmas without a little booze in your belly?

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Kobe’s Taste of Oz All your favorite pub food with an outback-themed twist – kangaroo burgers, crocodile nuggets, and beer from down under await you at The Rock in Kobe.

Text: Clare Midgley • Images: The Rock

 With walls the exact red of Australia’s Uluru, The Rock’s interior leaves little doubt about the origins of its name.

Located just a few minutes’ walk north of Sannomiya, the one and only Aussie bar and grill in Kobe only opened at the start of October but has already become a popular hangout for residents and tourists alike. Customers out to practice their English wrestle with the Aussie slang peppering the walls. “What does ‘fair dinkum’ mean?”

A chilled-out atmosphere and friendly, multilingual staff make The Rock a great place to take it easy and grab a few drinks or a bite to eat with your mates. Manager Vince, who you’ll sometimes find in the kitchen taking a turn as chef, explains that The Rock’s origins and Australian outback theme come from its successful sister bar in Nagoya. This new branch aims to provide a reasonably priced drinking and dining option in Kobe – a refreshing change if you want to branch out from Kobe’s handful of British-style pubs.

So what’s on offer? Well, an extensive selection of pub food, from your standard fish and chips, burgers and pies, to Mexican classics such as quesadilla and nachos, often with an outback-themed twist such as the addition of Aussie beef. More adventurous diners can try the hugely popular kangaroo burger, a tasty, lean-meat option, or the crocodile nuggets, a hit with the younger crowd. But if you want something truly authentic, go for the chicken parmy, an Australian staple of breaded chicken topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce that can make or break a pub down under. Wash it all down with a beer – Australian bottled op-

tions include Coopers and Crown Lager – a glass of wine or perhaps something from the long list of cocktails.

At The Rock you can also expect to be entertained. Screens at the far end show the sporting event of the moment – from European soccer to Aussie rules and rugby – and DJs or live music on weekend nights move the vibe up a notch from relaxed to lively. From time to time, The Rock hosts charity events as part of their involvement with organizations such as Hope International. “We want to give back to the community,” says Vince.

Party plans are available for any kind of event, whether it be a wedding, shinnenkai, or birthday party, and there’s a different special offer each weeknight – if you’re a teacher, drop in on a Thursday for a 10 percent discount! Happy Hour runs every day from 5:30pm to 7pm, and there’s a special lunchtime food menu on Saturdays and Sundays.

This small chunk of Australia in Kobe is already well on its way to becoming an established part of the Kobe pub scene, so see you in a while – crocodile. 

The Rock • Open: Mon-Thu 5:30pm–1am; Fri 5:30pm–3am; Sat 11:30am–3am; Sun 11:30am–1am • Tel: 078-393-2111 • Address: FPB Bldg 2F, 3-5-6 Kanou-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe • Website: therockjapan.com

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Language

Temple Stay Tips Many of Koyasan’s temples (see feature on page 08) open their doors to visitors overnight to experience shukubo (a temple stay), allowing them to sleep in a futon (traditional Japanese bedding) on the tatami (straw mats), enjoy shojin ryori (traditional vegan temple cuisine), and take part in a morning prayer session led by monks, all of which makes up one the most uniquely genuine Japanese experiences around.

The temple food is washoku ryori (traditional food of Japan). Everything is made using local ingredients and prepared by the monks on the temple grounds. While some ingredients and dishes can be seasonal, typical fare includes koya-dofu, a type of freeze-dried tofu, goma-dofu (white sesame tofu) and konnyaku, a jelly-like food made from the konyaku potato (a.k.a. devil’s tongue). Served to you in your room, the presentation is a multi-course feast for the eyes, and the tastebuds.

When donning your yukata (casual Japanese robe) remember to wrap it left-over-right across the front of your body. (Right-over-left is how they dress the dead!). Also, remember to change out of your yukata and into your regular clothing before going to the morning prayer.

 Useful Expressions ROMAJI

KANJI

MEANING

genkan

玄関

At the genkan (traditional Japanese entryway), be sure to remove and stow your shoes and put on a pair of communal slippers which you will wear around the temple.

manju

饅頭

When you enter your room in the temple, there will be green tea and a small manju treat on the table waiting for you. Manju is a popular traditional Japanese confection filled with bean paste.

shoji

障子

Shoji are the paper sliding screens in the temple rooms. Remember to be gentle when sliding the shoji and don’t lean against them as they are easily broken.

fusuma

襖

kotatsu

炬燵

karesansui

枯山水

A Japanese rock garden or “dry landscape” garden. A miniature stylized landscape through careful arrangement of rocks, water features, moss, pruned trees and bushes, and gravel or sand raked in a way that represents ripples in water.

shodo

書道

Shodo is a form of calligraphy – artistic handwriting of the Japanese language. Many temples hold optional shodo classes as part of their temple stay experience.

Fusuma are vertical rectangular panels which can slide from side to side to redefine spaces within a room, or act as doors. Often you find beautiful, delicate paintings on fusuma.

Some temple rooms may be equipped with a kotatsu, a low, wooden table frame with a heating element underneath, covered by a heavy blanket on which a table top sits.

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Food & Drink

Foodspotting Brighten up your winter morning mood with a visit to one of these three Kansai breakfast havens.

Text & Images: Janelle McNeill

Clamp Coffee Sarasa

There is a distinct new addition to the well-known Kyoto Sarasa café experience, and it begins with a walk down an ancient stone path to the gorgeously overgrown and inviting Clamp Coffee Sarasa. A very popular café, particularly at the 9:30am mark. The polite staff who run this very calm space never rush customers, and maintain a very calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Morning time here is full of wondrous aromas and content customers. Help yourself to a buffet of fun condiments for your chunky toast. The yoghurt and granola is such a treat, and the homemade pickles are delightful. With their own coffee roaster here, the brews are something special too. Enjoy your breakfast set in harmony for ¥750, and be enchanted by this creative space.

Open: 8am–7pm; Breakfast 8am–11am • Closed: Tues & Wed • Price Range: ¥750–¥1,200 • Access: JR Nijo Stn, 8-min

Coffee Hut

Allow yourself to pause one morning and relax and unwind in an intimate setting. With only 10 chairs, the smallscale, relaxed Coffee Hut provides an ideal place to reset and renew.

Kuriyama-san has created such a gentle atmosphere full of organic simplicity and earthy calm. Creative breakfast sandwich sets include pumpkin salad ¥600, BLT cheese toast ¥450, marinated tuna carrot ¥400, or seasonal jam toast ¥280. The deluxe breakfast (toast, egg, salad, yoghurt and coffee) for ¥600 is also recommended. The fresh coffee aromas transport you to faraway lands, and a refill is ¥250.

Indulge yourself further with a delightful homemade cake for only ¥350. If white-chocolate cheesecake feels too decadent for you, the seasonal pound cakes are much lighter. A weekday morning visit is highly recommended, followed by a fun day of shopping in eclectic Matchamachi.

walk from East Exit • cafe-sarasa.com

Usagi to Boku

Ease into your workday, or take it slowly on the weekend with a good book or favorite magazine at ‘The Rabbit and Me’ coffee shop in retro Showa-cho.

Mr and Mrs Uwaguchi renovated this 80-year-old nagaya just four years ago.

The coffee selection reads like a welltraveled passport (¥480–¥580), and the cutest bunny latte art will instantly jazz up your Instagram feed. Morning sets cost less than ¥500 and are ultra satisfying; butter or cheese toast, salad and homemade yoghurt plus a coffee, or try the hotdog set. The calm, cosy back area is full of quiet, comfortable reading spots, and there are lots of bunny books for children. Take a stroll over to the expansive Momogaike Park for a post-breaky stretch, or walk up to the Hankai tram line for further exploring.

Open: 8am–6pm; Breakfast 8am–11am • Closed: Tues & Wed • Price Range: ¥500– ¥1,200 • Access: Showa-cho Subway Stn, Exit 4 • usaboku-coffee.com

Open: 10am–7pm; Breakfast 10am–12pm • Closed: Wed • Price Range: ¥400–¥1,000 • Access: Matsuyamachi Subway Stn, Exit 4 • coffeehut.jp

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KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Feature

Beat Picnic: A Feast for the Ears Armed with contact microphones and lunch boxes, a Kyoto-based sound artist and his crew descend on locations around Kansai ready to make tracks, and eat lunch…

Text: Nick Breen • Images: Michael Leung & Nick Breen

 Picture yourself wandering by the shore of a lake on a cold winter’s day, chasing a flock of seagulls into the air, jumping into mounds of snow and then walking a little further inland to throw rocks into half-frozen streams.

Now – using the flutter of bird wings, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the splash of water as you break its surface – make some music. If these don’t suffice, try adding in the rattle of a metal fence or the twang of some thick elastic.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that any tune made from these sounds would materialize as a little clunky; a combination of some forcibly inputted noises together with some out of place racket, layered over the top of the aforementioned rattle and twang.

You would be mistaken, however, as one Kyoto-based sound artist and his group of friends did just this, and in quite spectacular fashion.

Ally Mobbs is the co-creator and organizer of a unique community of producers who work on a project known as Beat Picnic, making music from the sounds we hear every day.

“Beat Picnic is going to a location, recording sounds and then making a piece of music from only those field recordings. You have to make everything yourself; it’s an exercise in sound design.

The name Beat Picnic came about simply because the original intention was to chill and have a picnic while making beats,” he explained.

Despite having a full-time job to juggle on top of his already numerous musical priorities, the idea came to him and a friend after an event one day. “It started as a drunken plan between myself and David Cummings (soundcloud.com/agargara). We were at a subway station after an event and he suggested riding on the subway and making a track from just sampled sounds.

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #187 DECEMBER 2015 | kansaiscene.com

Photo: Nick Breen

We agreed it wouldn’t be the most pleasant experience, so I suggested doing it in a park with food and calling it Beat Picnic.”

So far the project has taken Beat Picnic to a variety of different locations across Kansai, among which are the Imperial Palace in Kyoto, Makino in Shiga, and The Mint skate shop in Osaka. As with any new venture, rules are in place, “Only sounds sourced from that one location can be used; no instruments, synths or other samples such as drums are allowed,” Ally said.

Rules though, make things challenging. “We often end up with too many recordings to sift through and choosing what to use and what to leave out can be hard. One of the hardest things when first starting is getting usable kick drum sounds or sub bass from the recordings. After a while you learn what kind of objects or materials will produce enough low frequency for shaping and editing later.”

A lot of the sounds will need editing, but some work best as they are.

David Cummings, the other half of the founding duo of Beat Picnic, says, “If you try too hard to force a sound to sound like something else through EQ and other effects, it will usually sound a little flat. I think it’s better to try and roll with the sounds you get rather than forcing them into a box.”

Photo: Nick Breen

Although they face difficulties in coming up with a listenable track at the end of the process, fun plays a huge part in their motivation to get out there. “The most fun aspect of Beat picnic is getting to visit places and experience them in new ways. Once you’re in the mindset of looking for sounds, you notice things you wouldn’t usually,” David said.

Interest in Beat Picnic hasn’t been limited to Ally and his collective. After setting up a Bandcamp site (an online publishing platform) and uploading Beat Picnic tracks to Soundcloud, the project has been garnering online attention, too.

As a thank you to those who’ve supported the project so far, they have been sending out cleverly presented packages to places as far afield as Canada, France, and Denmark.

“We made a bento box containing a cassette of the first Beat Picnic release, a handmade contact microphone, a pair of chopsticks for tapping out beats and some extra stickers. The number was limited so quickly sold out but our second release will also be available as a bento set,” said Ally.

So what’s next? “The next step is getting the second release ready. The locations for Beat Picnic 2 were Arashiyama monkey park and Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto. Our next release will include tracks from producers outside

Photo: Nick Breen

of Japan that we have sent sample packs to. As part of the release the new samples will be available as packs and Ableton Live drum racks for people to incorporate into their own productions or, if they’d like, make into their own Beat Picnic tracks.”

Beat Picnic isn’t Ally’s only project of course. Using handmade midi controllers, digital instruments and his beloved bass guitar, he tirelessly produces music on software that to a layman looks like something out of Star Trek.

“I try to perform at least once a month, even if it’s just playing on the street with a battery amp. I also play a regular event in Kyoto called Quantizer which is all instrumental hip hop and abstract beats. I was really happy to find a local event that my music fit into really well and I get to play with some really talented beat makers.”

David Cummings, who is now back in California, speaks of starting up a Beat Picnic Oakland. Keep an eye out for this as well as all the current and forthcoming releases from the original Beat Picnic clan.  beatpicnic.bandcamp.com/merch beatpicnic.tumblr.com facebook.com/beatpicnic allythemobbs allymobbs.com.

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Dec 11–24

Events

Kototaki Seasonal Illumination 琴滝イルミネーション冬ほたる2015 Kototaki Park, Kyoto  Dec 11–24

See trees, paths, and waterfalls sparkling with fairy lights at this magical park illumination event. Come and enjoy strolling in a countryside setting decorated with 700,000 tiny LEDs. Live performances of the ancient wind musical instrument ocarina will be held on a special stage in the park on the 23rd. Hot noodles and zenzai (sweet red-bean soup with mochi) will be served at special stalls to warm up visitors. It will be very cold, so appropriate clothes and footwear is advisable, also snow tires for cars.

Time: 5pm–10pm • Admission: ¥500 adults, concessions • Access: JR Sonobe Stn, bus to Kototaki-michi, 25-min walk • mirai.himl.net

 Dec 13 & 14

The 110th Exhibition of Kyoto Cuisine 第１１０回京料理展示大会 Miyakomesse, Kyoto  Dec 13 & 14

In a mouthwatering exhibition of traditional Japanese dishes, more than 200 famous restaurants in Kyoto will prepare lavish meals for public display on these two days. Last year, 8,000 food lovers were tempted by the sight and smell of this beautiful Kyoto cuisine. During the event, Japanese-food photo contest wil be held, and a Japanese rolled-omelette-making competition (on the 14th) will take place.

Dances performed by maiko (geisha apprentices) will add a touch of color to this magnificent culinary event. There will also be cooking workshops, a local-produce market, and of course, opportunities to taste the delightful dishes!

Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: ¥600 (¥800 at door) adults, concessions • Access: Subway Higashiyama Stn, 8-min walk • kyo-ryori.com

 Dec 23

Laughter Ritual お笑い神事 Hiraoka Shrine, Osaka  Dec 23 FREE

As the saying goes, “Fortune smiles on a merry home.” Let’s laugh for a good start to the New Year at Hiraoka-jinja.

Join this “laughing ritual” where priests lead the crowd for 20 minutes of hilarious howling. This extraordinary ceremony is based on the Japanese mythology that once upon a time, a group of gods gathered to dance and laugh together in order to coax the sun goddess from her cave. On this day, the shrine’s spiritual barriers called shimenawa (“enclosing rope”) are replaced with a new set, and the laughing ritual follows. There will also be a laughing contest, comedy shows, and a Japanese mythology talk.

Time: Approx 10am (the laughter ritual) • Admission: Free • Access: Kintetsu Line Hiraoka Stn, 2-min walk • hiraoka-jinja.org

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai December

 Dec 31

Christmas Flower Show 2015 クリスマスフラワーショー 2015 Kiseki no Hoshi Botanical Museum, Hyogo  Until Jan 17

Come and admire this glorious botanical garden designed by two famous landscape and lighting designers. There will be live music in the main garden from Dec 19th to 23rd.

Provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau

The New Year’s Eve Bells

Time: 10am • Admission: ¥600 adults, concessions • Access: JR Maiko Stn bus to Awaji Yumebutai • kisekinohoshi.jp

除夜の鐘

Antique Men’s Kimono Exhibition

Hikone Castle, Shiga

オトコのきものアンティーク展

 Dec 31 FREE

Tondaya, Kyoto  Dec 1–13

Ringing a bell on New Year’s Eve is an important Japanese custom. It is tradition for Buddhist temples to ring their bells 108 times on this day. The number 108 represents the number of earthly passions and desires that are said to delude us. It is believed that the pure sounds from bells awaken us from our delusions. This nationwide custom is also performed at Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s declared national treasures. The first 108 people in order of arrival can participate in this traditional event.

Time: 10:30pm (open venue) • Admission: Free • Access: JR Hikone Stn, 15-min walk • hikoneshi.com/jp

 Dec 31

A marvellous collection of antique men’s kimono is on display. See the luxurious linings of these kimono and learn the art of wearing such a beautiful garment.

Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Access: JR Kyoto Stn, bus to Imadegawa Omiya, 3-min walk • tondaya.co.jp

Japanese Sword Exhibition 日本の謎刀 Enzai Memorial Museum of Art & Crafts, Hyogo  Until Dec 23

A golden opportunity to learn about genuine Japanese swords. There will be a demonstration of how to decorate a hilt with thread on Dec 19th.

Time: 10am–5pm (Closed Mon) • Admission: ¥600 adults, concessions • Access: JR Himeji Stn, 10-min walk • ric.hi-ho.ne.jp/ emmuseum

Scuba-diving Santa Claus

New Year’s Countdown & Starlight Illusion 2016 ニューイヤーズカウントダウン＆ スターライトイリュージョン2016 Wakayama Marina City, Wakayama  Dec 31 FREE

Celebrate New Year’s Eve and welcome 2016 with an exciting live music show and the “Starlight Illusion” fireworks display. This is one of the largest New Year’s Eve events in Kansai held annually at Wakayama Marina City, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. Enjoy the funky gig with a star DJ from FM 802, a guest band, and local musicians! Six thousand light flowers will bloom across the sky above the Porto Europa accompanied by various genres of music.

Time: 7pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Wakayama Stn / Nankai Line Wakayamashi Stn, bus to Marina City • marinacity.com

サンタダイバー～水槽からメリー クリスマス～ Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka  Dec 1–25

A scuba-diving Santa Claus will entertain visitors over the festive period. Sharing the display tank with Whale sharks, giant stingrays, and tropical fish, Father Christmas will wave to you and pose for your photographs!

Time: TBA • Admission: ¥2,300 adults to enter the aquarium, concessions • Access: Subway Osakako Stn, 5-min walk • kaiyukan. com

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Event Listings White Promenade 白砂のプロムナード Shirahama Beach, Wakayama  Until Feb 29 FREE

A display of winter illuminations; artistic light designs will brighten up Shirahama’s white, sandy beach.

Time: 5pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Shirahama Stn bus to Shirahama • nanki-shirahama.com

Santa Claus Train 信楽高原鉄道 サンタ列車 Between Kibukawa Stn & Shigaraki Stn, Shiga  Dec 11–24

The Shigaraki Kogen Railway invites families to ride on this seasonally decorated train. There will be carols and games in the shiny tinsel-covered train and children will of course receive a Christmas present! Santa will be on-board at weekends.

Time: TBA on the website • Booking tickets is advisable • koka-skr.co.jp

The 2nd Osaka International Manga Grand Prix 第2回大阪国際マンガグランプリ Event Hall in Daimaru Shinsaibashi, Osaka  Dec 5 & 6

This year the competition invites entries created under the theme of the bold samurai warrior, Yukimura Sanada. Famous creators’ original paintings, manga fanzine, and character goods will be on display and sale during the event.

Time: 10am–8pm • Admission: ¥1,000 (¥1,500 at door) • Access: Subway Shinsaibashi Stn • osakamanga.com

5pm–9:30pm Sun • Admission: Free • Access: JR / Hanshin Line Motomachi Stn, 5-min walk • kobeluminarie.jp

Nabe Festa 全国ご当地鍋フェスタ「鍋-1グ ランプリ」 Kasagi Ikoi no Yakata-Mae Hiroba Square, Kyoto  Dec 6 FREE

A nabe (hotpot dish) contest will be held where different types of nabe from all over Japan will be judged for the top position. Other local goodies will also be served.

Time: 9:30am–3:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kasagi Stn, 5-min walk

Osaka Art & Craft Bazaar Osaka アート＆てづくりバザール ATC Asia and Pacific Center, Osaka  Dec 12 & 13

Browsing cute and fancy handmade works in this huge venue. In one of the largest events of its kind in Kansai, more than 900 artists will showcase and sell their fine art and crafts.

Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: Adults ¥550 (¥650 at the door), concessions • Access: Subway Trade Center-mae Stn, Exit 2 • tvosaka.co.jp/event/makingbazaar

Tempozan Gospel Festival 天保山ゴスペルフェスティバル Tempozan Marketplace, Osaka  Dec 13 FREE

Be uplifted by the voices of 20 specially selected gospel choirs and enjoy a performance by Costie Payne, a singer who is busily engaged in international shows.

Time: 2pm • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Osakako Stn, 5-min walk • kaiyukan.com/ topics/2015/10/topic_001840. html

Kobe Luminarie 神戸ルミナリエ The Former Foreign Settlement and Surroundings, Hyogo  Dec 4–13

The greatest Christmas light show in Japan. Live music and market stalls are planned this year to accompany this colorful marvel.

Time: 6pm–9:30pm Mon–Thu; 6pm–10pm Fri; 5pm–10pm Sat;

Gishi Sai – The 47 Ronin Festival 山科義士まつり Kyoto-Shi Tobu Bunka-Kaikan, Kyoto  Dec 14 FREE

To commemorate the national heroes of the 47 samurai, a colorful parade will be held. Selected scenes from the story will be re-enacted at designated places along the parade route.

Time: 10am–3pm • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Nagitsuji Stn, 7-min walk • gishimatsuri.com

On Matsuri – The Festival おん祭 Kasuga Shrine and Surroundings, Nara  Dec 15–18 FREE

The On-Matsuri is a festival held at Wakamiya Shrine which stands in the precincts of the Kasuga Taisha, one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Historic pageantry lasts for four days to celebrate the deity of Kasuga-taisha. On the 17th, the grand parade starts at 12 noon and classical performing arts can be seen one after another until late at night.

Time: Varies each day • Admission: Free • Access: JR / Kintetsu Line Nara Stn, bus to Kasuga-taisha Omotesando • kasugataisha.or.jp

Christmas Music Box Concert 2015

Time: 7pm • Admission: Free • Access: Keihan Line Gion Shijo Stn, 5-min walk • yasaka-jinja.or.jp

Mochi Rice Cake Pounding 千本搗餅つき Mizuma Temple, Osaka  Jan 2 & 3 FREE

A unique ceremony where eight young men, each with a pole in hand, pound mochi (rice cake) as part of a New Year celebration.

Come and see this high-spirited performance performed by these young men in colorful costumes.

Time: 10am & 1pm • Admission: Free • Access: Mizuma Line Mizumakannon Stn, 10-min walk • mizumadera.or.jp

Noh Play “Okina” 翁始式 Taga Shrine, Shiga  Jan 3 FREE

Time: 1pm–3pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (¥3,000 at door) • Access: JR Loopline Osakajokoen Stn • izumihall.jp

Time: 11am • Admission: Free • Access: Omi Line Tagataisha-mae Stn, 10-min walk • tagataisya.or.jp

An annual concert provided by a beautiful collaboration of antique music boxes and a quality music hall.

Moriyama Market

放鷹術

Nakasendo Moriyama-Juku, Shiga  Dec 23 FREE

Time: 11am & 2pm • Admission: Adults ¥600 (castle entry), concessions • Access: Subway Nijojo-mae Stn • 2.city.kyoto.lg.jp/ bunshi/nijojo

Okera-Mairi is the name for the visits made to the Okera Matsuri festival from late at night on New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day. Okera refers to the medicinal herb Atractylis ovata, which is believed to cast away the evil energy of the past year, and to bless us with longevity. At Yasaka-jinja on New Year’s Eve, kagaribi watch fires are lit by setting fire to the medicinal herb’s roots and toro lanterns placed in two different places in the shrine precincts are lit by this fire.

Izumi Hall, Osaka  Dec 17

もりやまいち

A demonstration of traditional Japanese falconry will take place at Nijo Castle, a designated World Heritage Site.

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto  Dec 31 FREE

クリスマス・オルゴールコンサート

Falconry Demonstration Nijo Castle, Kyoto  Dec 13

Holy Fire をけら詣り

A historic market held at the end of each year; a vast array of stalls selling craftworks, local products, and much more. Enjoy the performances of traditional buskers called chindonya.

Time: 10am–3pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Moriyama Stn, 5-min walk • moriyamayamamori.jp

Okera Mairi – Receiving

A golden chance to see a Noh play called “Okina.” This play is traditionally performed for an auspicious beginning to the new year.

Karuta – Japanese Card Game かるた始め式 Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto  Jan 3 FREE

Yasaka-jinja hosts a traditional Japanese card game called karuta as part of a New Year celebration.

Participants wearing kimono in the style of 8th century court ladies race their opponents to be the first to grab the cards.

Find more listings online: www.kansaiscene.com/ listings

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Community Events Submit your event to Kansai Scene Having an exhibition? Staging a gig? Organizing a business seminar? Think KS should know about it? Well, you can now submit your own event listings to Kansai Scene. Absolutely free. All listings will be posted online, and the best selection listed here. Priority will be given to free, or not-for-profit events.

kansaiscene.com/submit-event-kansai-scene Pirates’ Improv!

What's this?! Another event from the Pirates of the Dotombori?!

Clear my calendar, dear Sally, for this winter is for IMPROV! Have you ever seen a Pirates of the Dotombori show and thought, “Boy, golly, I sure bet I could do that, too!”? If so, then this workshop is for YOU! Come learn how we do what we do in a casual, kind, and bilingual learning environment. First time ever? No worries. Seasoned veteran? Well take a shower and get all that parsley & thyme off of you… To confirm attendance, please click “Interested” on our Facebook page so that we can save your place, as space is limited. See you soon! Love the Pirates.  Sun Dec 06 • Time: Meet at 5:45pm, enjoy the workshop from 6–8pm • Meeting Place: Tennoji Stn, outside Exit #5 • Price: ¥1,000 per person (incl drinks & snacks) • facebook.com/osakaimprov

Kamihikouki Magazine’s “Constellation” Party Get your head out of the clouds and into the far reaches of the universe to celebrate the release of Kamihikouki Magazine’s fifth issue, Constellation. The evening’s festivities will revolve around live music, performance art, libations, and a host of stellar surprise

activities. You don’t want to miss this out-of-this-world event!

 Sun Dec 06 • Time: 6pm • Where: Route 26 (Nankai Sakai Stn, 3-min walk) • Cost: ¥1500 (inc a copy of the ‘zine & 1 drink) The first 100 people in the door also get a prize!

“The First Christmas” – A Live Musical Performance Ensure your Christmas is fun, bright, and memorable by attending a live Christmas musical performance! Have you ever wondered how Christmas first started and why people still celebrate it? This musical answers those questions by going all the way back to the very first Christmas thousands of years ago. You are sure to get into the Christmas spirit with this magnificent musical, full of live singing, acting, a ninepiece live band, and a 13-person gospel choir! It’s a family event, so be sure to bring your kids to this fun bilingual experience!

The Christmas celebration will continue at our Kids’ Christmas Festival, immediately following the show on the 13th. A couple of very special sisters will be visiting our festival – Anna and Elsa! Kids will be able to meet Anna and Elsa and have their picture taken with these snow queens! The festival will be full of fun games for kids

of all ages, including a bean-bag tossing game starring our favorite snowman Olaf! Guests will also be able to enjoy delicious snacks, festive music and a Christmas photo booth.

 Sun Dec 13 • Time: 1pm–4:30pm • Tosabori YMCA • Organizer: Mustard Seed Christian Church • Admission: Free • seating is first come first serve, so get there early

KS Christmas Party!

For our last party of the year, we’re celebrating the festive season at Café Absinthe in Kita-Horie. Food will be served buffet style, featuring Absinthe’s signature Mediterranean dishes and yummy desserts.

Following on from the success of our Halloween party, this event will also be a family-friendly party, with the downstairs room converted into a supervised playroom for the night and a special guest appearance from Santa himself. So bring the kids, enjoy some delicious food, sit on Santa’s knee, and perhaps win something in our bumper lucky draw!  Sun Dec 20 • Time: 5pm–8pm • Café Absinthe Kita-Horie • Admission: Adults ¥4,000 (buffet, 1 drink & lucky-draw ticket); Kids (2–12 yrs) ¥2,000 (buffet, luckydraw ticket, & small gift from Santa); Kids (0–1yrs): Free • Access: Yotsubashi Subway Stn, Exit 5,

5-min walk • absinthe-jp.com/ cafe-absinthe

Shitennoji Temple Flea Market  Dec 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka

Used and handmade clothes, japanese ceramics, tableware, accessories and antiques for sale from 300 stalls at this popular temple market in Tennoji held on the 21st & 22nd of each month.

• Time: 8:30am–4pm • Admission: free • Access: 5min walk from Shitennojimae stn, Tanimachi Line • Tel: 06-6771-0066 • shitennoji.or.jp

German Christmas Market 2015 This annual Christmas market at the Sky Building in Umeda offers a magical European-style festive experience for the whole family.

The market brims with festive produce from Germany including a beautiful antique merry-go-round, twinkling huts, mulled wine in commemorative cups, sausages, krippe (nativity scene sculptures) and much more. Enjoy carols and live performances staged under the 27 metre illuminated Christmas tree.  Until Dec 25 • Time: 12pm–9pm Mon–Thu, 11am–10pm on weekends • Admission: free • Access: Umeda Stn

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Cinema Listings (selected theaters) Osaka Toho Cinemas Umeda Tel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Little Prince,

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, Last Knights, Everest, The Monuments Men, Pan, The Visit, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre

Umeda Burg7 Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women) 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Man From

U.N.C.L.E., The Little Prince, The Runner, Everest, Pan, La Famille Bélier (FR), The Transporter Refueled • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 26: Straight Outta Compton

Cine Libre Umeda Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/ cinelibre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,000

Now Showing: Foujita (JP, FR),

Moonwalkers, Fehér Isten (HUN), My Old Lady, You’re Not You, 1001 Grams (FR), Margarita With a Straw • From Dec 5: Finding Gaston, Camille Redouble (FR), Pirosmani (RUS) • From Dec 19: She’s Funny That Way, The President, American Heist • From Dec 26: The Strange Case of Angelica (POR), Heaven Knows What

Theatre Umeda Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/ theatre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st of the month: ¥1,000

Now showing: The Farewell Party

(HEB), Finding Vivian Maier, Leviathan (RUS), Viva la libertà (ITA) • From Dec 5: David Bowie Is • From Dec 12: Sagrada: The Mystery of Creation (FR, SPA, EN) • From Dec 19: Life • From Dec 26: Hrútar (IC), Soaked In Bleach

Osaka Station City Cinema Tel: 06-6346-3215 • osakastationcitycinema.com •

Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Last Knights, The

Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Rewrite, Dumb And Dumber To, The Monuments Men, Everest, Pan, The Transporter Refueled, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, The Intern • From Dec 4: Saint Laurent (FR, ENG), The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 11: He Named Me Malala • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 23: Creed • From Dec 25: Pawn Sacrifice

Toho Cinemas Namba Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Little Prince,

Woman in Gold, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, The Rewrite, Last Knights, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Everest, The Monuments Men, Pan, The Intern • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 23: Creed • From Dec 25: Pawn Sacrifice

Namba Parks Cinema Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema. com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Green Inferno,

The Farewell Party (HEB), The Sacrament, The Little Prince, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Last Knights, You’re Not You, Everest, La Famille Bélier (FR), Pan • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 19: Life • From Dec 23: Creed • From Dec 26: Straight Outta Compton

Cinem@rt Tel: 0662820815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men), Weds (women), 1st and 25th of the month: ¥1,000

Now Showing: What We Did on

Our Holiday, Je m'appelle Hmmm (FR), Clouds of Sils Maria • From Dec 14: The President • From Dec 19: She’s Funny That Way

Kyoto Movix Kyoto Tel: 07-5254-3215 • smt-cinema. com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st and 20th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Farewell Party

(HEB), Woman in Gold, Foujita (JP/ FR), Last Knights, Moonwalkers, You’re Not You, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Everest, Pan • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 23: Creed

Kyoto Cinema Tel: 07-5353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men), 1st of the month: ¥1,100

Now showing: Elena, Margarita

With a Straw, Finding Vivian Maier, Jauja (DAN/FR/SPA), The Banishment, Une femme douce (FR), Gone Girl, 1001 Grams, La Famille Bélier (FR), Clouds of Sils Maria • From Dec 5: Viva la liberta (ITA), Leviathan (RUS), River Road (CHI), Kano (TAI) • From Dec 12: Imagine, Narco Cultura, Wild • From Dec 19: She’s Funny That Way • From Dec 26: The President, Das Leben der Anderen (GER)

Toho Cinemas Nijo Tel: 07-5813-2410 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Rewrite, The

Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, Woman in Gold, Last Knights, Everest, The Monuments Men, Pan, Maze Runner: The Scorch, The Intern • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens

Hyogo OS Cinema Mint Kobe Tel: 07-8291-5330 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Hunger Games:

Mockingjay Part 2, The Little Prince, Woman In Gold, Last Knights, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Everest, Pan, The Visit, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, The Intern • From Dec 4: Spectre, The Peanuts Movie

• From Dec 11: He Named Me

Malala

• From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode

VII – The Force Awakens

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Tel: 07-8230-3580 • smt-cinema. com • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Man From

U.N.C.L.E., Foujita (JP/FR), You’re Not You, The Little Prince, The Intern • From Dec 19: Straight Outta Compton • From Dec 23: Creed

OS Cinema Kobe Harborland Tel: 07-8360-3788 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Last Knights, The

Man From U.N.C.L.E., Everest, Pan, The Transporter Refueled, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, The Intern • From Dec 4: Spectre, The Peanuts Movie • From Dec 23: Creed

Cine Libre Kobe Tel: 07-8334-2126 • ttcg.jp/ cinelibre_kobe • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,100

Now showing: Margarita With

a Straw, My Old Lady, La famille Bélier (FR), Finding Vivian Maier, Elser (GER), 1001 Grams, Clouds of Sils Maria, Labryinth of Lies (GER), Leviathan (RUS) • From Dec 5: The Farewell Party (HEB), Viva la liberta (ITA) • From Dec 12: Saint Laurent (FR, ENG), Moonwalkers • From Dec 19: The President • From Dec 25: Pawn Sacrifice • From Dec 26: Fehér Isten (HUN)

Toho Cinemas Nishinomiya OS Tel: 050-6868-5051 • tohotheater. jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Little Prince,

Woman in Gold, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Rewrite, Last Knights, The Monuments Men, Pan, The Intern • From Dec 4: The Peanuts Movie, Spectre • From Dec 18: Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens • From Dec 23: Creed

Note: for show times and ticket information, please contact the cinemas directly

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Until Dec 13 Osaka Museum of History

KS

Pick

Chinese-style painting, called Kara-e in Japanese, was developed in Japan in the Heian era and was enjoyed throughout the Edo era. You may have seen the famous illustrated hand scroll of the Japanese literary classic The Tale of Genji, the style of which became known as Yamato-e. This term has been used to distinguish Japanese works from contemporary Chinese-style paintings (Kara-e). Among the many painters, Ito Jakuchu (1716–1800) is well known today for paintings featuring traditionally Japanese subjects, such as domestic fowls and other birds and flowers. Other outstanding painters are being showcased such as Suminoe Buzen (1734–1806) and Hayashi Roen (active as a painter from the 1770s to the 1780s, although his year of birth and death are mystery).

This display exhibits historically significant painters who loved Chinese paintings and brought us new perspectives of art through their own style of Kara-e.

Special exhibition of Chinese-style paintings • Open: 9:30am–5pm (Fridays during the exhibition period 9:30am–8pm) (last entry 30 mins before closing) • Closed: Tue • Admission: ¥1,000 • Access: Tanimachi-4-Chome Stn • mus-his.city.osaka.jp

 Until Dec 25

Two White Peafowl by Hayashi Rōen

KARAEMON, Lovers of Chinese-Style Painting: Buzen, Roen, Jakuchu and Others

 Until Mar 13

Kyoto Art Center

Kyoto National Museum

ANN LISLEGAARD solo exhibition / Shadow Ya Ya

Feature Exhibition: Guardian Lions and Lion-Dogs

Norwegian artist Ann Lislegaard’s solo exhibition is opening at Kyoto Art Center. She blurs what’s real and what’s unreal by 3D film animation and sound-light installations to connect between different things such as architecture, cinema, human beings, animals, machines, etc. She is active in Copenhagen and New York. Lislegaard manipulates shadow and light, and noise and silence, deeply immersing the observer in her surreal universe, hearing noises in silence, and finding light in the darkness. The effects of focusing on these contrasts is fascinating, and it is easy to see the influence of Sci-Fi on her work. For the first time in Japan, her animations Time Machine (2011) and Crystal World (after J.G. Ballard) (2006) will be on show.

Lion-dogs, known as komainu in Japanese, are the guardians that can be seen outside the gates of many Japanese shrines.

They are generally made of stone, but are sometimes made of wood. Lion-dogs are single-horned and closed-mouthed. The open-mouthed statues without horns are just lions, known as shishi. The practice of pairing one lion-dog and one lion started in the Heian Period (794–1185). Before that, in the Nara Period, the pairs had always consisted of two lions. These figures took a long journey from ancient Egypt, passing through China and transforming from karajishi (Chinese lion) to the Japanese guardians we know today. This exhibition features approximately 10 pairs of sculptures to give you the chance to compare and contrast these guardians from different points in history.

Dec 15–March 13 • Open: Tue–Fri, Sat and Sun 9:30am–5pm (last entry 4:30pm) • Closed: Mon & Dec 26–Jan 1 (Open when Mon is a National holiday and closed the following Tue) • Admission: ¥520 • Access: Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-

3D animations and sound-light installations from science

mae bus stop

fictions • Open: Daily 10am–8pm • Admission: Free • Access:

from Kyoto Stn •

Subway Shijo Stn • kac.or.jp

kyohaku.go.jp

Lion and Lion-dog (formerly housed in Bujo-ji Temple) Kyoto National Museum

30

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Art Listings Osaka Tomoko Takagi and Takuya Yamashita “Someone Else's Sensibility” ARTCOURT Gallery  Until Dec 19

ARTCOURT Gallery is introducing two young, up-and-coming artists Tomoko Takagi and Takuya Yamashita who develop their expressions through someone else's sensibilities or point of view. Enjoy the different way of thinking and discover something fresh in this display of paintings and art objects.

Open: 11am–7pm; Saturdays 11am–5pm • Closed: Sun, Mon & Holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Sakuranomiya Stn • artcourtgallery. com

Mahou Museum ABENO HARUKUS MUSEUM  Dec 12–Jan 27

Colorful blinking lights and mysterious moving shadows. Using the latest digital technology, this exhibition gives you media art that you can see and touch as a hands-on interactive project.

Open: Tue–Fri 10am–8pm; Sat, Sun & Holidays 10am–6pm (last entry 30 mins before closing) • Admission: ¥1,200 • Access: Tennoji Stn • aham.jp

Kyoto Manavu Muragishi “The Man Who Sold the World” Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto  Until Dec 13

This exhibition is divided into two parts with one section showing sumi-e (Japanese calligraphy painting), and another Muragishi’s new art and a special selection from the past 15 years.

Open: 12pm–7pm • Closed: Sun, Mon and Holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Jingu Maruta-machi Stn • moriyu-gallery.com

ROSANJIN KITAOJI Exhibition Kahitsukan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art  Until Dec 13

Under the theme of Clay, Calligraphy, Tea, Flower and Food, a selection of Rosanjin’s works will be on show. His work came from strong pursuit of beauty and an unceasing desire to explore.

Each and every one of his works is quite unique.

Open: 10am–6pm (Last entry 5:30pm) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,000 • Access: Gion-shijo Stn • kahitsukan.or.jp

The Elegant Beauty of Japan Hosomi Museum  Until Jan 24

Display of Japanese hanging scrolls (kakejiku) and potteries from the Edo and Azuchi-momoyama periods under the theme of snow, moon, and flower. It is a beautiful thing to have the chance to experience all the Japanese seasons at once. Works from Kiitsu Suzuki, Kiyuu Ichikawa, and Jakuchu Ito etc. will be featured.

Open: Tue–Sun 10am–6pm (last entry 5:30pm) • Closed: Mon and Dec 28–Jan 1 (Open when Mon is a holiday and closed the following Tue) • Admission: ¥1,100 • Access: Higashiyama Stn • emuseum.or.jp

Shiga Western Paintings in Shiga The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga  Until Dec 13

Contemporary western paintings from Shiga artists. With a passion for his homeland, Kenzo Noguchi, a local painter in Shiga, dedicated his artwork to the beautiful scenery around the mother lake - Lake Biwa.

Artist Jutaro Kuroda from Otsu is also featured.

Open: Tue–Sun 9:30am–5pm (Please enter 30 minutes prior to closing) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥500 • Access: Seta Stn • shiga-kinbi.jp

Hyogo Kimono from the Kofun to the Edo Period Kobe Fashion Museum  Until Jan 1

What patterns, colors, and prints we now recognize as “traditional Japanese” are actually the culmination of hundreds of years of style evolution, brought in part by both foreign influence and pivotal points in Japanese history. Thus, kimono from each era past take after the height of each individual trend that found its way into Japanese dress; for example, pieces from the Nara period reveal Chinese influence, those from the Heian period reflect the elegance and refinity of the Imperial court, and the beginnings of modern kimono are rooted in the Muromachi period. This exhibition focuses on the intricate craft of weaving and

 Until Dec 6 Otani Memorial Art Museum

Matsutani Currents This exhibition features one of Japan’s most innovative artists, Osaka-born Paris-based Takesada Matsutani, who lives and works between Paris and Nishinomiya, Hyogo. From the early 60s to the early 70s, Matsutani was a key member of the ‘second generation’ of the Gutai Art Association (1954–1972), Japan’s innovative and influential art collective of the post-war era. Matsutani began experimenting with vinyl glue, and developed this technique further, using hairdryers, fans, and his own breath to create bulbous forms reminiscent of the curves of the human body.  Until Dec 6 • Open: 10am–5pm (last entry 4:30pm) • Closed: Wed • Admission: ¥800 (FREE for Nov 3) • Access: Koroen Stn • http://goo.gl/vfwsg7

dyeing fabric used for the kimonos through a vast collection of displays and photographs. Throughout the exhibition period, events, interactive workshops like weaving, and talks will also be held.

Displays and photographs that highlight the evolution of kimono style from the Kofun to Edo period • Open: 10am–6pm (admission until 5:30) • Closed: Wed (except

Dec 23); Dec 24 • Admission: ¥500 (Free if wearing a kimono) • Access: Rokko Liner to Island Center Stn • fashionmuseum.or.jp

Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Live Music  Jan 7

Wolf Alice

KS

Hailing from London, England the four-piece Wolf Alice (Ellie Rowsell, Joff Oddie, Theo Ellis, and Joel Amey) released the debut single Fluffy nearly three years ago. Named as Best Breakthrough Artist at the 2014 UK Festival Awards, the band released its first album My Love Is Cool at the beginning of this year.

Described in the UK music and fashion magazine Clash as “the lovechild of folk and grunge,” they’ve been compared to past bands such as Elastica and Hole.

About the band’s rapid rise, vocalist Ellie Rowsell said in a summer interview, “it makes me slightly giddy. I remember working in shops and going a little crazy, just desperate to go on tour and into the studio, make albums and play festivals. And now it’s happening.”

Pick

Four-piece alternative rock band from London, England • Club Quattro, Osaka •Jan 7 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,550 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Live Music Listings Rhizottome

Dec / Jan

French duo Armelle Dousset and Matthieu Metzger, accordion and sopranino sax Urbanguild, Kyoto

Rock & Pop

Dec 24 • Neo-trad • 7:30pm • ¥2,000/¥2,400 • Tel: 07-5212-1125

Aqua Timez Japanese alternative-rock band Neverland, Nara

Yuki Furukawa

Dec 12 • Rock • 5:30pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: 090-1142-1996

Yo La Tengo

Pornograffitti

Yo La Tengo

Pornograffitti

Ray Parker Jnr. & Raydio

U.S. indie-rock band from New Jersey formed in 1984 Club Quattro, Osaka

Japanese rock duo Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

U.S. musician and songwriter with 80’s band members Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka Dec 14 • R&B Funk • 9:30pm • ¥8,900/¥10,400 • Tel: 06-63427722

Dec 19 • Indie Rock • 6pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Osaka Haziketemazare Festival ft Hey Smith, The Cherry Cokes, Country Yard + More Day-night rock festival with multiple acts Big Cat, Osaka

Dec 19 • Rock • 1pm • ¥4,200 • Tel: 06-6882-1224 UVERworld

UVERworld Six-piece Japanese rock band from Shiga Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka Dec 16 & 17 • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥6,800 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Kinki Kids Japanese male vocal pop duo Kyocera Dome, Osaka

Dec 19 & 20 • Pop • 19th at 4pm & 6pm; 20th at 2pm & 4pm • ¥9,000 • Tel: 01-8099-3700

Dec 21 & 22 • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,000/¥7,500 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Rip Slyme Japanese hip-hop group Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka

Dec 21 & 22 • Hip-hop • 7pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6344-3326

the pillows Japanese alternative-rock band formed 1989 Namba Hatch, Osaka

Dec 22 • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,200/¥4,800 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Aldious Japanese female heavy-rock band Club Quattro, Osaka

Dec 24 • Heavy Rock • 7:15pm • ¥4,300/¥4,800 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Japanese actor, special Christmas event Namba Hatch, Osaka

Dec 25 • Pop • 6:30pm • ¥4,800/¥9,800 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Silent Siren Japanese pop-rock, four-piece girl band Orix Theatre, Osaka

Dec 27 • Pop rock • 6pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Juice=Juice Japanese female pop vocal group Muse, Osaka

Dec 29 • J-pop • 2pm/5pm • ¥6,600/¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6245-5389

Guthrie Govan English rock guitarist with the band The Aristocrats Big Cat, Osaka Dec 29 • Rock • 7pm • ¥8,000/¥8,500 • Tel: 06-6644-9292

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Jan 7

 Dec 21

 Dec 16

Uriah Heep

Håvard Stubø Quartet

Saori Yano

Classic rock band formed in England in

Norwegian jazz guitarist Håvard Stubø first picked up the instrument when was just 12 years old. The son of jazz guitarist Thorgeir Stubø and brother of jazz singer Kjersti, he studied jazz at the Trondheim Conservatory of Music from 2000 to 2004.

In 2007, with his friend Tord Rønning Krogtoft, he founded his own record label and they have released 20 albums to date.

Stubø brings his quartet comprising Knut Riisnæs (sax and flute), Torbjörn Zetterberg (bass and haken) and Mjåset Johansen (drums) to Japan touting the new album Vilhelmina.

Nominated for a Norwegian Grammy, the band has been described as “a fire-breathing group that cooks mightily” (U.S. Cadence Magazine).

Check out harbardstubo.com for an interesting video of the quartet’s last visit to Japan and a musical taster.

1969 • Zepp, Osaka • Jan 14 • Classic Rock

Acclaimed Norwegian jazz guitarist and

Japanese jazz saxophonist • Mister Kelly’s,

• 6:30pm • ¥12,000 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

group • Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Dec 16 •

Osaka • Dec 21 • Jazz • 7pm/9:30pm •

Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥3,600/¥4,500 • Tel: 07-

¥4,800/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6342-5852

With no less than 25 studio albums under their belt, debuting with the 1970 …Very ‘Eavy …Very ‘Umble, Uriah Heep was one of the top rock bands of the early 70s alongside Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and Black Sabbath.

Still with a large following in Europe and Japan, led since 1969 by founding member, guitarist Mick Box, the band’s 25th studio album was November’s Totally Driven. Though it’s not exactly a new album – it is a re-release of a 2001 anthology but with different track order. The original 2001 version went quickly out of print. About the doubledisc release, Mick Box says, “This re-release has had the band’s full input, including in its rebranding as Totally Driven, and will be the very first release on our own Uriah Heep Records.

‘Appy Days.”

Twenty-nine-year-old Japanese saxophonist Saori Yano first began playing live on the jazz club circuit when she was just 14, and went on to record her debut album just two years later. She now has a new album out with live shows to promote. This new album consists of movie music plus other styles of jazz and salsa. Saori explained that the word “bebop” used to be slang for “cool” and that the music on the album fits that cool, bebop style. On her influences, she says that she was amazed by Jaco Pastorius, drawn into jazz by the magic of Charlie Parker, and inspired by the upbringing of Billie Holiday. Her future plans are to continue with her songwriting and also to explore electronic music that works with bebop, whilst aiming to keep a healthy smile on the faces and in the hearts of her listeners.

5255-7273

Taku Taku, Kyoto

Dec 30 • Rock • 6:30pm • ¥2,400/¥2,800 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

aiko Japanese female singer originally from Suita, Osaka Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka THE ALFEE

THE ALFEE Popular Japanese pop trio Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka

Dec 29 • Pop-rock • 5pm • ¥7,560 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Honeymaker Japanese rock band

Dec 31 • Pop • 9:30pm • ¥6,900 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

ABC English 80’s new-wave band featuring Martin Fry Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka

Jan 5 • New Wave Pop • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,900/¥9,400 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Kansai Rock Summit 16 featuring Diealo, Archemi + more

Yamazaki Masayoshi

Rock day-night festival featuring seven bands Club Quattro, Osaka

Jan 11 • Rock pop • 5:30pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6882-1224

Jan 5 • Rock • 3:30pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Japanese rock-pop singersongwriter Orix Theatre, Osaka

Destruction

Wolf Alice

German thrash-metal band Shangri-La, Osaka

Four-piece, alternative-rock band from London, England Club Quattro, Osaka

Nate Ruess

Jan 7 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,550 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Jan 11 • Metal • 5pm • ¥6,800/¥7,300 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

U.S. singer and lead vocalist of indie-pop band Fun Big Cat, Osaka

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 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai  Dec 29

Will we be seeing you touring with The Aristocrats in Japan again any time soon?

Possibly in the latter half of 2016 – watch this space!

English rock guitarist with the band The Aristocrats • Big Cat, Osaka • Dec 29 • Rock • 7pm • ¥8,000/¥8,500 • Tel: 06-66449292

Listings (Cont.)

Jan 14 • Indie Pop • 7pm • ¥5,800 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Interview Guthrie Govan English guitarist Guthrie Govan is known more recently for his work with the trio The Aristocrats, but he has also worked with the classic band Asia as well as in guitar instruction through the UK magazine Guitar Techniques. KS caught up with Guthrie Govan before his upcoming solo trip to Japan.

You’ve been one third of the trio The Aristocrats since 2011, and together you have released the new album Tres Caballeros in summer this year. Will this trip to Japan be just your own material, or a mix of music from various projects?

Believe it or not, we still haven’t finalized the whole set list but my basic plan is to combine some of my solo material (from the Erotic Cakes album) with a selection of fusion “standards.” There might be one or two Aristocrats tunes, but in general the Aristocrats material was written specifically for the three musicians who comprise the trio itself, so I prefer to play those tracks only in the original intended context.

Plus I’m keen to ensure that these forthcoming Japanese shows will be something special and unique.

At the beginning of this year The Aristocrats released Culture Clash Live plus Secret Show: Live in Osaka. How do you enjoy your trips to Japan and playing here?

I think I can speak for every Western musician who has ever played in Japan when I say that, in so many ways, it’s the best place you could possibly tour. Japanese shows are always very well organized, with great attention to detail, and the overall feeling is that everything just works… so the musicians are free to focus on the performance itself, without having to worry about any unnecessary distractions.

I also enjoy the nature of the audiences in Japan; typically the crowd will be very quiet and attentive whilst music is being played, but then they really show their appreciation in between songs. It’s the best of both worlds really, so… needless to say, I’m very much looking forward to returning to Japan this December.

Rottengraffty Japanese punk-rock five-piece from Kyoto Neverland, Nara

Saori Yano Japanese jazz saxophonist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka

Dec 21 • Jazz • 7pm/9:30pm • ¥4,800/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-63425852

Jan 13 • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,300 • Tel: 090-1142-1996

Uriah Heep Classic rock band formed 1969, England Zepp, Osaka

Jan 14 • Classic Rock • 6:30pm • ¥12,000 • Tel: 0570-200-888

Knock Out Monkey Japanese alternative-rock fourpiece Chicken George, Kobe Jan 14 • Rock • 7pm • ¥3,700 • Tel: 078-332-0146

The Muggles Mellow ballads, classic rock and dynamic rock and roll from Osaka-based jamming band Woodstock Café, Ashiya, Osaka

Every Fri & Sat • Rock and Group Sounds • Entrance free; ¥2,000 (2 drinks + snack) • Tel: 07-97341044

Soul The Stylistics 70’s Philadelphia male soul group Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka Dec 30 & 31 • Soul • 30th at 4:30pm & 7:30pm / 31st at 7:30pm • ¥11,500/¥13,000 • Dec 31 at 10:30pm ¥14,000/¥15,500 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

Jazz & Blues Håvard Stubø Quartet Norwegian jazz guitarist Live Spot Rag, Kyoto

Dec 16 • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥3,600/¥4,500 • Tel: 07-52557273

Incognito

Incognito British acid jazz band formed 1981 Club Quattro, Osaka Dec 22 • Acid Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

H Zet Trio Japanese keyboardist and producer ex-Pe’z Masayuki Hiizumi Muse, Kyoto

Dec 28 • Jazz • 7pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 075-2230389

Kayoko Nishizaki Japanese jazz trumpeter Mister Kelly’s, Osaka

Dec 29 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:15pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Tel: 06-63425852

World Goran Manssing Swedish flute, pipe and recorder musician Biwako Hall, Otsu Dec 19 • Folk • Time TBA • Admission TBA • Tel: 07-75237136

Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings

36

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Club

 Dec 18

Namura Zosen Atochi House/techno superstar Luciano, Swiss-born and raised in Chile, will finally return to Osaka in this December. Luciano is famed for pioneering and developing the underground electronic music scene in Chile via promoting, playing, and organizing parties in the Santiago club circuit in his teens. At the age of 21, he moved back to Europe and founded his own label Cadenza Music, which represents Latin and South American sounds, rhythms, and culture and brings them into the world of techno and house. In 2010, Luciano started Vagabundos party with his fellow Cadenza artists at Pacha in Ibiza, on every Sunday night, which soon turned into a runaway success and became a world-recognized party brand. Vagabundos parties have been taking places across the globe from Tokyo to Holland, Brazil, Miami, New York, Romania, Serbia, Barcelona and more, and he is definitely one the hardest-to-book DJs in the world.

German techno producer/DJ Lawrence will also join the night along with Japanese underground techno DJ CMT. Do not miss this rare opportunity to catch them all together in Osaka.

The Star Festival 2015 Final (Techno/House) • DJs: Luciano, Lawrence, CMY + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: TBA (ADV: ¥4,500) • Where: Kitakagaya • namura.cc

Club Listings December 4 (Fri) Circus Circus presents DJ Hype (Drum’n’Bass) • DJs: Hype, Toyo,

Kenz1 • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Club Life Bugle Japan Tour 2015 (Reggae)

• Live: Bugle, Thunder • DJs: Razz, Yellow Choice, Ninjya Rock, My Star + more • Open 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥3,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6484-3264 • clublife-japan. com

Ghost Ultra Lounge Loyal (Open Format) • DJs:

Fatfingaz, Martin, Ymp, Minami Boyz, Merit + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

Jaai 24/7 (Techno/House) • DJs: kk,

Sxxxo, Aon, Uoshima, Miffy,

HamMock, Qritomato, Milk Bro., Kino. + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Golden Daiichi Plaza 5F, 2-1-5, Higashi Shinsaibashi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Friday (All Mix) • DJs: D-Suke, U-ta, Mellow, Rokkie + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Onzieme Onzieme 9th Anniversary presents Eleven Lights (EDM/Electro) •

DJs: Taku-hero, Kento, Alphashot + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,500/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06- 62430089 • onzi-eme.com

Triangle Most wanted x Tripping Factory presents Crazy Triangle (Drum’n’Bass/Dubstep/Bass Music)

• DJs: Ichi aka Digital One, Kaizan Records, Giddlah Selecta, Kom aka Big Chief, Anode + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000, Foreigners: Free) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel:06-6212- 2264 • triangleosaka.net

World Kyoto FPM 20th “Moments” Release Party (House/Techno/Electro) •

DJs: Tomoyuki Tanaka aka FPM, Shinichi Osawa, Halfby, Golden • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075212-4119 • world-kyoto.com

5 (Sat) Circus System 7 “X-Prot” Release Tour (Techno/Trance) • Live: System7,

Gaudi • DJs: Kihira Naoki, Shu • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Ghost Ultra Lounge En:Core (Hip Hop) • DJs: Minami, B=Bal, Malu, Juntanaka • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62140545 • ghostosaka.com

Joule 7iRO Silver feat. Stryker & Wild Monkeys (Trance) • Live: Stryker,

Wild Monkeys • DJs: Energy Dai, Kazya, Yuki, Shiva, Kixaragi + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 •

Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62141223 • club-joule.jp

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Saturday (All Mix)

• DJs: U-ta, Rokkie, Hifumi, Hiroshi + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Onzieme Onzieme 9th Anniversary presents Move Night (Techno/House) • DJs:

Rodhad, Sugiurumn, Yashima, Nao Nomura + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troopcafe Diatonik – DJ Sodeyama New Album “Twelve Processing” Release Tour in Kobe (Techno/ House) • Live: Apanco • DJs:

Sodeyama, Yasuhisa, 244 aka 822, Daichi, 2Nyan, Mariko + more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (Mail Reservation: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

World Kyoto World Disco - 3rd Anniversary (Hip Hop/R&B) • DJs: Verbal, Lucas

Valentine, Murakamigo, MJ-Michi,

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Hope + more • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

6 (SUN) Circus Luke Vibert “Bizarster” Release Japan Tour 2015 (Beat Music)

• Live: Oorutaichi • DJs: Luke Vibert, Ka4u, Aluca • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Ghost Ultra Lounge Ghost on Sunday (All Mix) • DJs:

Kaz001, Bullset, W-One, Tact, Lisa • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6214-0545 • ghostosaka.com

Onzieme Onzieme 9th Anniversary presents Bass Park (Bass Music) • DJs:

Daruma, Newkid’n Play, Fummy, Yuuna, Fanky, Kow + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

11 (Fri) Circus Tube TV feat. Birdsmakingmachine (Techno) • Live:

Birdsmakingmachine (Pior Live + Rudolf DJ) • DJs: Shinzo, Ono • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Ghost Ultra Lounge Loyal meets Glister (Open Format)

• DJs: Ree-Age, Giann, Martin, Ymp, Minami Boyz, Merit + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62140545 • ghostosaka.com

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Friday (EDM/All Mix) • DJs: Jay Hardway, D-suke,

U-ta, Mellow, Rookie + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Metro Night Cruising & Bayon Production presents Omni Sight “Eternal Return” Release Party in Kyoto (Electronic Music) • Live: Omni

Sight feat. Kyoto “Eternal” All Stars, UCND feat. Koyo & Shoichi Murakami • DJs: Kaoru Inoue, Ametsub, Kazuma + more • Open:

10pm • Admission: ¥2,800 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Socore Factory Hairai – Alfagiri All Night Osaka Party (Techno/House) • DJs: Hiloco

aka nerodoll, Moja, Xianfuschweltz, Square Tune Magician, Fumi, Alfagiri, Aotan • Open: TBA • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Horie • Tel: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

12 (Sat)

13 (Sun) Onzieme Bubble x Orange Night (Techno/ House) • DJs: Tsuna, Galette,

Kinpon, Ohooji, Yop, 846 + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62430089 • onzi-eme.com

17 (Thu) Onzieme

Circus S.O.W Laser presents Spectrum 15th Anniversary Exclusive Party (Techno) • Live: A.Mochi • DJs:

Reeko, Takaaki Itoh, Loe, Zen • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,900 (WF: ¥1,900) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com

Ghost Ultra Lounge En:Core (Hip Hop) • DJs: Minami, B=Bal, Malu, Juntanaka • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62140545 • ghostosaka.com

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Saturday (All Mix)

• DJs: U-ta, Rokkie, Hifumi, Hiroshi + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen 3,000/1D; Ladies 2,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Triangle Relation (House/Techno/Electro)

• DJs: Daruma & Jommy, Erie, Monster Rion, Key Toy’s Crew, MJMichi, Idiotyuuka + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel:06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka. net

Troopcafe Return Of The Shibuya-Kei (Hip Hop) • Live: The Otogibanashi’s,

Little Tokyo • DJs: VaVa, Tee, Akeem the Dream + more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (Mail Reservation: ¥2,000) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

World Kyoto DDD (House/EDM) • DJs: Daishi Dance, Ksuke • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

Room (House/Jazz/Funk/Hip Hop) • DJs: Shinya, Onochan, Yuto,

Airreal, Kan Fuchigami, Mine + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62430089 • onzi-eme.com

Metro Sembrado (Techno/House) • DJs: Baiyon, Noguchi, Yudai Tamura, Sota • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,700/1D (WF: ¥1,700/2D) • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Okamoto, Aon, Djoiyan, Ataka + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D (WF: ¥1,500/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Golden Daiichi Plaza 5F, 2-1-5, Higashi Shinsaibashi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka

Joule Skazi in Joule (Trance) • Acts: Skazi + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Saturday (All Mix) • DJs: Tokyo Nijyugoji, U-Ta,

Rokkie, Hifumi, Hiroshi + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Metro DJ Krush New Album “Butterfly Effect” Release Party (Hip Hop) •

Acts: Krush, Daichi, Knd, Ritto x Freecool, Plant, Nao + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

18 (Fri)

Onzieme

Kitsune Kyoto

Dhadha, Marvy, Soery, Hmen, Shin5, Joji Matsumoto • Open: TBA • Admission: TBA • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Kitsune Kyoto – Friday (All Mix) •

DJs: D-Suke, U-ta, Mellow, Rokkie + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Onzieme Loooopy (Dance Music) • DJs:

Taku, 4Rest, Juzzy, Acko, K4, Sara, Moon, Masahiro • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

World Kyoto Cosmic x Cyberjapan – Xmas 2015 (House/EDM) • DJs: Mitomi Tokoto,

Kento, Show-T, B-Ber • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto.com

19 (Sat)

Emma House XX 30th Anniversary Release Tour (House) • DJs: Emma,

Triangle Matsuri Digital presents Time Paradox Tour in Osaka (Techno/ Trance) • DJs: Tsuyoshi, Yuta +

more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel:06-6212- 2264 • triangleosaka. net

World Kyoto World Bang Bang – Santa Dance (All Mix) • DJs: Mr.Camp, Toppo,

141, Haruka • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

20 (Sun) Dogma River Forum

Circus Tetralogistics (Techno/House) •

DJs: Kunimitsu, Yasuhisa • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Jaai Klingen (Techno/House) • Live:

Juri • DJs: Shin Nishimura, Keiji

Music Circus Christmas Edition Red (EDM) • DJs: Redfoo + more

• Open: 1pm • Admission: ¥6,000 (ADV: ¥4,500) • Where: Fukushima • red.music-circus.jp

Ghost Ultra Lounge Gobble 1st Album “Welcome To Gobbland” Release Party (Hip Hop) • Live: Gobbla, Big Moola,

37

38

 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai Boil Rhyme, Checkmate Ent. + more • DJs: Deflo, 5-Island, Showta, Donkey • Open: 6pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62140545 • ghostosaka.com

Troopcafe Rush Hour Label Night (Techno/ House) • Live: Soichi Terada •

DJs: Hunee, Antal • Open: 5pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

22 (Tue) Circus Chaos (Techno/House) • DJs:

Fumiya Tanaka + more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Grand Cafe Hed Kandi feat. Yasuca (House/ Techno/Disco) • DJs: Yasuca,

Atsuko Morita, High Velocity, Monna Lisa, Milk Bro., Joey + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62130031 • grandcafeosaka.com

Kitsune Kyoto Kitsune Kyoto – Friday (All Mix) •

DJs: D-Suke, U-ta, Mellow, Rokkie + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

World Kyoto Gossip – Xmas xoxo (EDM/All Mix) • DJs: Tjo, Afromance, Chiba-Chups, Lippie + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥1,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

26 (Sat)

Hisashi the Kid • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Gypsy Aozoracompany presents Year End Party – Tropicalis (Techno/ House) • DJs: Kento from Force of

Big Love And Punk And Destroy presents Iceage Osaka (Rock) •

Rebellion & Teionclub (Techno/ House) • Live: David Hulsken • DJs:

Lone Striker, Francesco Robustelli, Du Chatinier, Flem, D41, DKBassline, Kitten + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62141223 • club-joule.jp

Kitsune Kyoto

• DJs: Sayurita, Sejoonism • Open: 8pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

World Kyoto Discooo! – Xmas Eve (All Mix) •

DJs: Chiba Chups, Paruku + more • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: TBA • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto.com

25 (Fri) Circus DJ Krush “Butterfly Effect” Release Tour Osaka (Hip Hop/Electronic Music) • DJs: Krush + more • Open:

10pm • Admission: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Jaai D.P.R.B x Serie Limitee Night (Techno) • Live: 99Letters • DJs:

Cedric Sabras, Djoiyan, Riki, BD, Kieme • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Golden Daiichi Plaza 5F, 2-1-5, Higashi Shinsaibashi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka

Kitsune Club Night (Electro/ House) • DJs: TBA • Open: 10pm •

Joule

Mayora! 2015 Xmas Special (K-pop)

Lookbook DJs • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥1,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme

Circus

Onzieme

Lookbook (All Mix) • DJs:

Club Snoozer (Rock/Electronic Music) • DJs: Soichiro Tanaka,

23 (Wed / Nat Hol)

24 (Thu)

Circus

Circus

Nature, Kazumi, Makotos, Shohei, Smyn • Open: 9:30pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075212-3223 • gypsy-kyoto.com

Live: Iceage • DJ: Chiro • Open: 7:30pm • Admission: ¥4,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

27 (Sun)

Kitsune Kyoto – Saturday (All Mix)

• DJs: U-ta, Rokkie, Hifumi, Hiroshi + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,500/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075255-0421 • kitsune-kyoto.com

Neo Macao 2015 – 30 Hours Non Stop Party - (Trance) • DJs: Slum,

Fullmoon Mondo, B-55, GU, Hatta, Yuji, Fumi, Show-Hey, Yasuo, Iuta + more • Open 11pm • Admission: ¥6,000 (ADV: ¥5,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-3211 • neo.xxxxxxxx.jp

World Kyoto Girly (All Mix) • DJ: Groovy workshop. • Open: 8pm–1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,500/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

28 (Mon) Circus Studio Barnhus Label Show Case (Techno/House) • DJs: Axel Boman,

Petter, Kornel Kovacs • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme Block.FM presents Block Party – Year End Party Special (House/ Electro) • DJs: Jaguar Skills, Tom

Piper, Taku Takahashi, Jaxx Da Fishworks + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

29 (Tue) Circus DJ Baku “Neo Tokyo Rave Style” Release Party (Bass Music) •

DJs: Baku + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Onzieme Soul Free - Decade of the 2000s (Hip Hop) • DJs: Minami, Benkay,

George, Kaz001, Giann, Okimi • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,500/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troopcafe Minority Lounge (Techno/House)

• DJs: Takuya Koroda, Kiyo, Novol + more • Open: 11pm • Admission:

TBA • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-83213130 • troopcafe.jp

World Kyoto Tachytelic (House/EDM) • DJs: Taku Takahashi, Jaguar Skills, Tem • Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075212-4119 • world-kyoto.com

30 (Wed) Circus DJ Nobu Open to Last (Techno/ House) • DJ: Nobu • Open: 11pm

• Admission: ¥3,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troopcafe Fumiya Tanaka – Special Long Set – (Techno/House) • DJ: Fumiya

Tanaka • Open: 11pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-83213130 • troopcafe.jp

World Kyoto Girly – World Cowntdown Eve (All Mix) • DJ: Groovy workshop.

• Open: 8pm-1am • Admission: Gentlemen ¥3,000/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 075212-4119 • world-kyoto.com

31 (Thu) Circus Circus Cowntdown Party (Bass Music) • DJs: Elijah & Skilliam +

more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Triangle Newworld 20th Anniversary Special – Goa Gil Countdown 2015 -2016 (Trance) • DJs: Goa Gil •

Open: 10pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel:06-62122264 • triangleosaka.net Troopcafe Troopcafe CountDown Party (Techno/House) • DJs: Troopcafe

DJs + more • Open: 11pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

World Kyoto World Countdown Party 2015 – 2016 (All Mix) • DJ: Tomoyuki

Tanaka aka FPM, Komori, Murakamigo, Takeru John Otogro, Chiba-Chups, Golden + more • Open: 7pm • Admission: ¥4,000/1D (ADV: ¥3,000/1D) • Where: Kyoto • Tel: 07-5212-4119 • world-kyoto. com

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 Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds COMMERCIAL For Sale SCHOOL FOR SALE!!!. Going

Home for good!! A well established Eng. School for last 12 years is for commercial sale from Sep. 2015 in Kobe. 1 min. From JR Rokkomichi st. Great location for other business, Juku, Soroban, Online teaching and Child care! For serious pls. call 09084830425 SB ! Foreign & Jap. B. men are most welco Contact: Jimmy Bambidoo <iloveenglish2100@i. softbank.jp> Website: cuacademy. web.fc2.com [3029-5938-2015-12-01]

Accommodation For Rent APARTMENTS IN KOBE WITH NO KEY MONEY. 1 room apartments

from 40,000 yen per month. 2 and 3 bedroom apartments also available from throughout Kobe.

Email kevin@elliottventures.com, call 090 6777 9864 for a viewing or visit www.elliottventures.com or find us on Facebook. Contact: kevin elliott <kevin@elliottventures.com> Website: www.elliottventures.com [2748-335-2016-06-25]

KOBE, KITANO, MIKAGE, OKURAYAMA. 3 places available:

all furnished, no key money, no agency fee, 2 months refundable.

KITANO: Y89,000/ month 36sqm, very central in Kitano MIKAGE: Y98,000/month, 61sqm, very sunny, views, near stream.

OKURAYAMA (photo): Y98,000/ month 75 sqm spacious house. small garden ffeildenjapan@gmail. com 090-5643-9293 Contact: ffeilden <ffeildenjapan@gmail.com> Website: www.ffeilden.com/ [3130436-2015-12-13]

Jobs Education PART TIME NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED. Part-time

native English teacher wanted on Tuesdays and Saturdays for children and adults. Excellent working environment for an energetic, professional teacher.

Experience preferred. Training provided. ¥10,000/day (4 classes). Transportation paid.

Sanda City, Hyogo. Starting November. Contact: Jarred Anderson <kiwienglishschool. sanda@gmail.com> Website: www. kiwienglishschool.com [3082-59772015-12-31]

TEACHERS WANTED. School in

Ashiya/Okamoto is looking for FT/PT English, French & Korean teachers ASAP. University diploma preferable. Must be native speaker with valid visa. Payment: \2700-

\3000 per hour + transportation.

Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: ashiyaplus@ hotmail.co.jp Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp> Website: www.comlanguageschool. com [3206-252-2015-12-19]

hour plus a bonus of Y500/hour upon completion of the course.

Transportation will be paid separately. Include resume in email: info@kk-blc.co.jp Contact: blandc <info@kk-blc.co.jp> Website: www. kk-blc.co.jp [3181-6036-2015-11-29]

SEEKING ENGLISH CONVERSATION INSTRUCTOR ASAP. English school in Shijonawate

PRESCHOOL TEACHER AND BABYSITTING IN NISHINOMIYA.

City is seeking an outgoing qualified foreign English instructor urgently, for teaching children and adults as a PT job. The school is a 3mins walk from JR Shinobugaoka station. Working days are Wed/ Sat from 2pm-8:30pm. The wage is ¥1500-¥2500/h plus transportation.

CV required. Contact: openarms English School <openarms0218@ yahoo.co.jp> Website: www. openarmsenglish.com [3167-16312015-11-21]

PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER FOR FRI/SUN IN IZUMISANO.

Native English Teacher for adult and kids classes. Friday 4-9 or 2-9 Sunday 10-5 or 10-6 2000 yen/ lesson+travel Must have a valid visa. Izumisano, Osaka Contact us for more details. gtec.recruiting@ gmail.com Contact: gitech <gtec. recruiting@gmail.com> Website: gtecbeta.seesaa.net/ [3180-1742-201511-27]

ENGLISH CAMP: DEC 17-18. Native English teachers needed for two days and one overnight in Sasayama for 3rd year junior high girls from Shinwa Gakuen. Bring your creative ideas for workshops. 25,000 yen. School provides all meals, accomodation and transportation.

Apply by Dec. 7. Email resume and photo or FAX to 078-854-3804 Contact: Francis <hanamizuki. david@gmail.com> [3191-13192015-12-05]

ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED.

P-T teacher wanted at Suita and Ibaraki RES Royal English School for kids, adults (private and group) as well as coffee/bar talk lessons from Wednesday to Saturday. Group classes have existing curriculum. Please contact us at royalenglish725@gmail.com Contact: Royal English School <royalenglish725@gmail.com> [3173-1446-2015-11-23]

SEEKING ENGLISH SPEAKING JAPANESE STAFF. We are an

international school in Osaka looking for English speaking Japanese staff. Please send your resume with a recent photo to: info@trinitymirai.com Contact: Trinity Mirai <info@trinitymirai. com> Website: www.trinitymirai. com [3214-5812-2015-12-20] TEACHING BUSINESS ENGLISH.

BL&C in Kobe needs an English instructor for corporate lessons, 1-2/wk, 6:30-7:30 p.m., days can be negotiated, 3-months, near Kobe Airport. Pay is Y4,500/

Seeking a lively person who is committed to work. Working days and hours:Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 10:00 to 17:00 (negotiable) 1. Preschool Teacher 2. Baby Sitting Wage: 900y/h (training month), 1,250y/hour (after training) raise up to 1,500y/h plus trans. Place: 2-29 Hourakuchou Nishinomiya, Kurakuenguchi s Contact: International Playcentre FREDERICK <masaketchup@live. jp> [3185-6042-2015-12-04]

General WANTED DRIVER / ASSISTANT FOR NOV 22 (KOBE-KYOTO).

Wanted Driver/Assistant on Nov 22 (for one day event) to drive from Kobe to Kyoto and assist in setting up and helping with sales at a food festival. Pay is Yen 10,000 for the day plus local transportation costs.

Interested parties please e mail info@zest-foods.com or call 0803277-0188 Contact: employment@ zestfoods <info@zest-foods.com> Website: www.seaviewcourtkobe. com [3217-1082-2015-12-20] CES IS SEEKING ENGLISH/OTHER LANGUAGES CORPORATE. CES

is seeking corporate language instructors / interpreters (2-7 teaching hours a day) Hyogo, Shiga, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama and Wakayama areas for 3-12mth courses starting immediately. P/t hourly rates. 3,500-4,000 yen per hour. For more info, please forward C/V with availability to mark@ cesjapan.co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@cesjapan.co.jp> [2930-772016-01-27]

ENTERTAINMENT SHOW DANCERS WANTED. The Burlesque

Entertainment Cabaret in Namba is looking for show dancers.

Approx. 3 performances a night between 7pm–1am. Decide your own schedule. If you love music and dance or are serious about dancing we want to hear from you!

Over 18yrs old only. From ¥2,200/ hr. Must speak some Japanese.

Tel: 0120-300-440 Contact: The Burlesque Entertainment Cabaret <shinji-kawada@insou-west.co.jp> Website: en.the-burlesque.com [2994-5545-2015-09-19]

Hospitality PART-TIME HOSPITALITY HELP WANTED.. Hotel Nikko Osaka

located right in the center of Osaka is looking for those interested in the part time jobs in Restaurant Service

and Front Service. Interested applicants should have Japanese capability and full visa requirement to work in Japan. Please email us at morita.sh@hno.co.jp for more details. Contact: Hotel Nikko Osaka <morita.sh@hno.co.jp> [3219-20982016-05-20]

Classes & Events Courses / Classes 英会話 Private English Lessons. こんにちは。私はイギリス人 のアンディ・デイビスです。20年以上に 渡り、英会話講師をしており、生徒に合 わせたレッスンを心がけています。 キ ャビンアテンダントからビジネスマンま で多くの私の生徒が素晴らしい英語を 話せるようになっています。また、楽しく レッスンをしています。 レッスン場所 は自宅、職場、芦屋教室、コーヒーショッ プ またはSkype。 プライベートレッ スン 50分 1,000円より。 企業向け サービスもしております。 詳細はメ ールにてアンディ・デイビスまでご連絡く ださい。 無料体験レッスンをご案内し ます。お気軽にお問合せください。080-

3816-3818 after 9pm. Contact: Andy Davies <bournvillestudios@yahoo. com> [3182-5910-2015-11-29] FREE ABACUS CLASS FOR FOREIGNERS FREE ABACUS CLASS FOR FOREIGNERS OFFERED BY O.C.C.I. and Osaka

Abacus Assoc. to promote int'l goodwill. Individualized lessons taught in Japanese or English.

Saturdays 10-12 am. Course material provided for free. Near Sakaisuji-Hommachi and Kitahama.

Call: Moritomo Ken 06-65726877 https://sites.google.com/site/ osakasoroban//

Events "THE FIRST CHRISTMAS" {A LIVE MUSICAL PERFORMANCE}.

Get in the Christmas spirit by coming to see this magnificent musical, featuring a 9-piece band & 13-person Gospel Choir! Bring the kids too! The fun continues at our Kids Festival where Elsa & Anna will be there to take pictures!

Dec 13 (1pm) & 24 (6:30pm). It's FREE! www.ChristmasMusical. jp Contact: Christmas Musical <ChristmasMusicalOsaka@ gmail.com> Website: www.

ChristmasMusical.jp [3210-60552015-12-15]

HIDDEN BEAUTY, JAPANAMAZING MOUNTAIN RUNNING TOUR. Runners can look forward to

a new specific trail running camp in the greater Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe. On every weekend, small groups of 10 runners will traverse breathtaking scenery for half days and at their own pace. You can enjoy beautiful sceneries, great food, historic temples and shrines, hot springs.

Contact: Trailrun Coach <info@ trailrunrun.com> Website: www.

42

 Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds facebook.com/trailrunrun2 [32001755-2015-12-09]

Health & Beauty Beauty

I really want to learn English.

Contact: SueSue <Sue_s848@yahoo. com> [3155-5911-2015-12-18] NATIVE ITALIAN SPEAKERS NEEDED.【 Native ITALIAN

Speakers Needed 】Looking for Native ITALIAN Speakers who can help our ITALIAN conversation club, live near Shinsaibashi. If you are interested, please send us your resume. freespace.cflat@gmail.com Contact: Keiko Nagano <freespace. cflat@gmail.com> Website: www. freespacecflat.com/ [3008-127-201511-20]

LANGUAGE EXCHANGE GROUP IN OSAKA ON MONDAY NIGHT!.

Let's do language exchange with us.

My friends are looking for partners.

We also have Japanese class at the same place. Volunteers help your study. Any level is OK! Let's study together! Contact: Rimi Makino <rimim@hotmail.com> Website: www.facebook.com/rimi.makino.3 STAR NAILIST COCO IS COMING! NOV.5 & &6.. We are welcoming

Ms. Coco from Hawaii, U.S.! She won Nail Olympic Airbrush division in Las Vegas, and wining prize for Nail's Magazine. The nail she create is most fabulous and ONLY ONE nail in the whole world. Contact: Smile Link <office@smile-link. net> Website: www.facebook.com/ nailartistcoco [3166-5793-2015-11-21]

Services Pets DOG SITTING SERVICES IN SOUTH OSAKA. Hi, I lived in

California for about 10 years and was doing volunteer for shelter dogs. I experienced dog care and training at S.F. SPCA, Oakland shelter and East Bay SPCA. Animal welfare activities like animal rescue, No fur, No animal testing are my life long interest. Please visit my website. Thank you. Contact: kuma <lionbibb@gmail.com> Website: lionbibb.wix.com/kaupilie [32035996-2015-12-10]

COMMUNITY Language Exchange HISTORY OF EUROPE-TALKS IN JAPANESE OR ENGLISH. If you

interested in history, please bring your favorite topics to me. I know especially about Medieval Europe, the others. Please speak and teach, and I am going to tell you things which I studied. Contact: Shinya Hada <sinya-hada@hotmail.co.jp> [2351-2007-2015-12-15]

PLEASE TEACH ME ENGLISH. I'm

looking for a native English speaker who can teach me English by free of charge. I'm 46 Japanese woman.

[2367-447-2015-12-01]

CULTURAL EXCHANGE GROUP.

I will plan one day Kyoto cultural tour sometime. If you meet new people and enjoy cultural scene of Kyoto, come to our event ;) Usually we use one day bus or metro pass to visit a place in Kyoto. We went to Jidai and Kurama festival last month. We will have an event for museum this month. Contact: Ninja Frog <yororogun@yahoo.co.jp> [3218-6046-2015-12-20]

LANGUAGE EXCHANGE EVENT @ COFFEE SHOP IN MOTOMACHI.

Hi there, we make some language exchange events at coffee shop in Kobe, named "International Cafe" and "Nihongo Cafe". You can have a chance to speak English or Japanese with local people. Every 1st and 3rd Thu(18h-21h) is International Cafe and every 2nd and 4th(18h21h) Thu Contact: shuhei <round.point.cafe@gmail.com> Website: roundpointcafe.blogspot. jp/2015/09/event-informationseptember-1.html [3115-5997-201512-04]

Community Services AN ENGLISH SPEAKING HAIRDRESSER IN OSAKA!!. Are

you looking for an English speaking hair dresser in Osaka? 'ROMA' is definitely the one to go. I enjoy talking with customers from all over the world through English, and have experience cutting non-Asian hair. Staffs are very friendly, unique and funny! We're waiting for your vis Contact: ROMA_Megumi <mg235mg@yahoo.co.jp> Website: www.roma1215.com/ [3159-60222015-12-19]

日英翻訳者 (Japanese-English Translator). 東アジア文学専門 ( 日本語特)、色々翻訳経験ある。も っと言語・翻訳経験求めてる。 BA

in East Asian studies (Japanese lang. emphasis) with translation experience in multiple fields looking for more language experience.

Contact: Scytale <dontgotnologin@ gmail.com> [2441-2177-201512-01]

Pets ANIMAL REFUGE KANSAI ARK 2016 CALENDAR NOW ON SALE.

Sales of the calendar can usually cover ARK's vet bills for a year.

It's one of the easiest ways to support their work for homeless & abandoned animals. It's also an excellent introduction to those unfamiliar with what a shelter does and they make great gifts.

Thanks for supportin Contact: ray5star <ray5star@yahoo. co.jp> Website: www.arkbark. net/?q=en%2Fnode%2F6267 [3036-

1604-2015-12-03]

Announcements MARIST BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL FOOD FAIR. Marist Brothers

International Food Fair, Saturday, Nov. 7, 10AM-3PM. USED BOOK FESTIVAL IN THE LIBRARY (2nd Floor of Main Office Building) Enjoy delicious food, wonderful music & performances, fun games & activities, and GOOD READS (mainly English books/ magazines)! Contact: shitamotoe <shitamotoe@marist.ac.jp> Website: twitter.com/MBISLibrary/ status/661713078787018752 [31871372-2015-12-04]

AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL "WRITE FOR RIGHTS" IN OSAKA.

DATE: Sunday 13 December, 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm PLACE: The Blarney Stone in Umeda, Osaka.

• All materials and information supplied, but writing not required for participation. Feel free to come just for fun or information. • Will also include a jazz trombone performance. • Charge: ¥500 (1 drink) Contact: AIGroup95 <mark.s.p.smith@gmail.com> Website: www.amnesty.or.jp/en/ about_us/ [3184-6026-2015-12-03] ENGLISH & YOGA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.

Join our international Yoga Community Kansai where you can make friends learn English and learn more about the world with indoors and outdoors yoga and dance and various relaxing and fun events in English and Japanese . Please check Yoga Community Kansai on Facebook and Meetup. Contact: Yoga Osaka <yogacommunityosaka@gmail. com> Website: pureyogajp.com [3215-1728-2015-12-20]]

Other BUSINESS PARTNER SOUGHT!!.

I'm looking for a Business Partner related to Anti-Aging Skincare and Beauty.It's not illegal one, secure.

Regardless of age,sex,nationality.

You should be Smart, Positive, Intellectual,Mature,Attractive and Passionate about job, Preferable a bit Japanese language. Please contact me. Contact: redrose <redrose0721@hotmail.co.jp> [3213-5794-2015-12-20]

MODELING. we like to help you to get into modelling or being an extra for photo+TV+fashion+events... call: 06-6532-7117 or 090-66669415 or mail to: info@fum-intl. com Contact: FUM <info@fum-intl. com> [2205-1911-2015-11-26] STREET HOCKEY IN SANNOMIYA, KOBE. Friendly pick-up street

hockey in Sannomiya (Kobe) We average about 8 or 10 guys each week. Nice outdoor hockey court at Minato no mori park south of Sannomiya station. It's free to play! Come join us and bring your friends! We have extra sticks to share. Visit our website/facebook Contact: drykod <drynk@hotmail. com> Website: www.kansaihockey. x10.mx [3118-6002-2015-12-05]

Books & magazines GOOD BYE JAPAN SALE. Hello everyone, We have a lot of things to sell. Goods include a wide variety of books (especially children and adult ESL, childrens books, adult fiction, religious) There is also quite a bit of miscellaneous merchandise good for collecting. Please take a look at the following sites: http://jap Contact: jimimac <jmackenzie451@ gmail.com> [3212-6056-2015-12-20]

Friendship LOOKING FOR A MATURE WOMAN. Hello, A generous and

kind guy is looking for a mature woman. I can speak English and Japanese. I don't care how old you are, where you are from. If you like, contact me. Contact: Aki Yagi <tigeranddragon2013@gmail.com> [3151-1316-2015-12-15]

LOOKING FOR LONG TERM FRIEND. hi , i am 40s looking

for sincere woman , i can speak japanese and chinese, english , i am in fashion field, divorced, and living kyoto, if you are really looking for long term happy relationship then please contact me. Contact: alexvin <alexvin@qq.com> [2641-56352015-12-05]

Sorry…

Due to space restrictions we are unable to print all classified ads.

See kansaiscene.com for more classifieds online.

Umeda

Umeda Sky Building German Consulate 35F

Lucua

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Nishi Umeda

Dojima Hotel

Dojima

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Edobori Ostec Exhibition Hall

YMCA Post Office

Bank

Police Station

Hospital

Hotel

Church

Shrine

Shinmei Law Office

US Consulate

Nishi Tenma

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ma Dori

Keihan Main

Movie Theatre

Na

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5

aba

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Line

Kitahama 0

Temple

Museum of Oriental Ceramics

Osaka City Public Hall

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Kitahama

Rihga Royal Hotel

Beer Belly

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City Hall

Tosabori River Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Tanimachi Lin

Nakanoshi

Bank of Japan

APA Hotel

5F

ACCJ Kansai

Yodoyabashi

National Museum of Art Science Museum

Ana Crowne Plaza

Oebashi

Higobashi

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Beer & Pizza GO_SUKE

Hanshin Expresswa

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Hotel Elsereine Osaka

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NTT Data

Dojima River Forum ABC Hall

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Kita Shinchi

Outback Steakhouse Dojima Avanza B1F 4F Junkudo

Yotsubas

JR

Hotel Kansai

3/4F

Osaka Dental Clinic Dai-3 Dai-1 Creamy Bldg.

Dai-2 Bldg.

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33F Exeo Kita Shinchi 1F Capt. Kangaroo

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Mister Kelly’s

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Dai-4 Bldg.

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Higash

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Umeda Burg7

Ogimachi Park

Club Quattro

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Herbis Ritz Osaka .2 Carlton No ute Ro

Maru Bldg.

Asahiya Bookstore

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TGI Fridays

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Osaka YWCA

Hankyu

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Hilton Plaza West

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Hotel Granvia

Navio Toho Plex

Hankyu Dept.

Daimaru Umeda

Osaka Station City

Visitors’ Information Center

Hep 5 Hep Navio

Hankyu Grand Bldg

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Hotel Kinki

Shin Midosuji

JR Osaka Lucua 1100

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Craft Beer Base

Yodobashi Camera

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Osaka Loop Line

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Club Noon

Hankyu Umeda Kinokuniya Sta. ABC Mart

Ume

Umekita Ship

Maruzen & Junkudo

New Hankyu Osaka Hotel

Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital

Westin Hotel

Loft

Theater Umeda

InterContinental Osaka Hotel

200m

N

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Namba Shrine MoeJoe Hearton Hotel

Shinmachi Life

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Mizuho Bank

Nishiohashi

7-ELEVEN

Louis Vuitton

Shinsaibashi

Triangle

Triangle Park

Yotsubashi line

2F Tezukayama Gallery Orange Stree t (shopping stree

The Silver Ball Planet Big Step

Grand Cafe Ghost Ultralounge

Naniw

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Coolabah APA Hotel

Dotonbori

River

L&L

Daimaru Dept.

Onzieme 11F Cinem @rt Apple Store

Balabushka 4F

Shinsaibashi 3F GS Travel

Cross Hotel

HigashiShinsaibashi

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

Soemon-Cho B1

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B1 Burlesque

Pure Osaka

Don Quijote

Kaneyoshi Ryokan

Mexico Namba Hatch

a. a St

Namba Sta.

JR N

Junkudo

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Namba

Nam

OCAT

Hotel Monterey

Inari AEON MaxValu

Namba

Absinthe Solaar 8F

Motomachi

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BIC Camera

Visitors Information Center

Hotel Ichiei

Nipponbashi sta.

Sennichimae line

Toho Cinemas Namba

Little Long Beach

Washington Hotel Plaza

Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn

Namba Hips Tominaga Hospital

Dotonbori

Kokopelli

Osaka Shochikuza

Dotonbori Hotel

3

B1

Suomachi-dori (Europe street)

Kansai Tourist Information Center Don Quijote

Ark Hotel

Murphy’s 2F Comfort Hotel The Blarney Stone

Daimaru Dept.

South

Yamaya

Nagahoribashi

Sakaisuji line

Horie Park

MinamiHorie

a-suji

OPA

Cafe Absinthe

Midosuji line

Covent Garden

5F Boy

Daimaru Dept.

North

Nikko Hotel

Nest Hotel

GAP

Uniqlo

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Yotsubashi

The Westside

Hearton Hotel

Tokyu Hands

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Toyoko Inn

Kitahorie Hospital

Hiday's Texas BBQ

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Nagahori dori

KitaHorie

D & Dept.

Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Hotel Via Inn

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Takashimaya Dept. Store

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Cine Pop

Namba Oriental Hotel

Junkudo MUJI/LOFT Tower Records

Nankai Namba Station

Fraser Residence

Misono Building

Namba Plaza Hotel

6

NipponBashi

McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Namba -naka

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Namba PARKS

Pub Bar 30 2F Naniwa Sports Center Naniwa Post Office

Toys”R”Us Jack & Queen Naniwa Ward Office

Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba

N 0

Post Office

Bank

Police Station

Hospital

Hotel

Church

Shrine

Temple

100m Movie Theatre

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Shinsaibashi/Namba

Orix Theater

Kobe YWCA

Pearl Street

Kobe Mosque

Kobe Sauna

Kobe Ikuta Junior High School

lin e su bw Ya ma te

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku

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Sanjo

Wakamatsu-dori

Butterfly

World

Kawaramachi

Marui

Takashimaya

Kiraku Inn

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The Gael Irish Pub

Shijo-dori Minamiza Theatre

Church

Shrine

Temple

Movie Theatre

Hanamikoji-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

Kawaramachi-do

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Kyoto Royal BLDG.

Gion s hijo

Junkudo 7F Bal

Keihan Line

Sanjo

Gion Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art Gion Hotel

Joko-in

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200m

Sanjo

Kitsune Kyoto

Pontocho

Mina

Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

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Kitanoza Sh iei

Movix Kyoto

Fuji Daimaru

Movie Theatre

Oike-dori

Sanjo-dori

Hankyu Line

Temple

Sannomiya Hanadokeimae st.

Kyoto Royal Hotel Kyoto Asahi Kaikan Starbucks

Gokomachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

Tominokoji-dori

Yanaginobanba-dori

Sakaimachi-dori

Shrine

Port liner

Kyoto

Church

Hotel Okura

OPA

Hospital

Hotel

Kobe City Hall

Shiyakushomae

Kawara Machi

Police Station

no

San

Hospital

Aoyama

Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Jomo Gas

Sansei Hosp.

miya anno JR S Sun City OS Cinemas 7F Junkudo iya Mint Kobe m no San Tower Hotel Tokyu Inn SannomiyaRecords SOGO Dept.

Marga 5F Kinokuniya 8F Kobe Kokusai Kaikan 1F HSBC

Flower road

Tozai Subway Line

Bank

Police Station

d.

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Minato Bank

Kyoto City Hall

Post Office

Bank

miya

Sanchika un

Daimaru Dept.

Kainan lin

Teramachi Area

Ali’s Kitchen 3F

Route 2 San Plaza Sannomiya Cine Marui Center Center Guild Phoenix Plaza East Plaza 2F West Junkudo Kowka Kyukyoryuchi 4F Daimarumae

Nankin-machi

2F

Midnight 5F Iznt Hobgoblin 4F 7F Sannomiya

Hanshin line

Motomachi

Daimaru

Tokyu Hands

Post Office

sudo Kobe kosokutet

Subway

The Rock

Ikuta jinja

Mickey’s Club 5F Hotel Monterey

JR Motomachi sta.

Kobe Grocers

Ikuta Police Station

Oriental Dental Clinic Hotel 4F Tor Road

Hyogo-ken Prefectural Hall

Kobe Womens Junior College Yamate kansen

ka

St. Michael’s International School

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do

Fu

Yamatoji-dori

Soraku Park

1F Bistrot Cafe De Paris

Hunterzak a

Kitano-cho Tor Road

Sannomiya

Yamamoto-dori

200m

N Yasaka Jinja