Kansai Scene #194 July 2016

Free monthly guide covering Osaka • Kyoto • Hyogo • Nara • Wakayama • Shiga

JUL 2016 / ISSUE 194

Exploring Awaji Island Whirlpools Puppet Shows Burgers + More

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HOLY GUACAMOLE! OSAKA’S TOP SPOTS FOR MEXICAN FOOD HANDY APPS FOR TRAVELING JAPAN

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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

Publisher.......................................................Daniel Lee Managing Editor..........................Celia Polkinghorne Editor.........................................................Jason Haidar Production Manager............................... Misa Matsui Production Assistant......................... Miyoko Morita Accounts Manager..................................Michiko Lee Art............................................................. Kansai Scene Cinema.................................................. Miyoko Morita Event & Festival....................................Yuki Uchibori Live Music.............................................Phillip Jackson Club............................................................Terumi Tsuji

Summer has well and truly hit Kansai so brace yourself for a slew of big-name traditional festivals (Gion Matsuri, Tenjin Matsuri), live music festivals (Summer Sonic), and summer blockbusters at the cinema (Finding Dory, Independence Day). Better yet, how about a trip to the coast? This issue we take you across the world s longest suspension bridge to Awaji Island!

What’s on Around Kansai Events & Festivals......................................................04 Art ...........................................................................................10 Live Music ..........................................................................13 Club ........................................................................................ 18

Photo: Jason Haidar

About Kansai Scene

Cinema................................................................................ 20 Contact Kansai Scene General ...........................mailbox@kansaiscene.com Editorial...............................editor@kansaiscene.com Advertising .......................... sales@kansaiscene.com Tel. ............................................................06-6539-1717 Fax. ...........................................................06-7635-4791 Address........................................Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, ............................................................ Shinmachi 3-5-7, ................................................................... Eiko Bldg. 2F ................................................................ Mojoworks KK Website............................................. kansaiscene.com

Classifieds........................................................................ 30 Getting Around / Maps............................................34

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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.

Out and About on Awaji Discover the nature, culture, and cuisine of Awaji Island this summer.

FEATURE Text: Celia Polkinghorne

Write for Kansai Scene If you would like to write for KS, please contact editor@kansaiscene.com after reviewing our writers guidelines:

ON THE COVER: This month’s cover photo was taken at Awaji Island by Jason Haidar.

Foodspotting Mexican anyone? Three Shinsaibashi restaurants to get your tastebuds talking.

FOOD & DRINK Text: Adam Koch

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Apps for Travel Japan can be tricky to navigate if you re not a Japanese speaker, but not to worry! These three apps are sure to help.

TECH Text: Dave Wingler

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

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Live Music Interview

KS caught up with Scottish singer-songwriter and ex-Fairground Attraction vocalist Eddi Reader prior to her return to Japan.

LIVE Text: Phillip Jackson

 Kansai Scene Classifieds

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Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

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Events JUL

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/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Tanabata Star Festival

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七夕のゆうべ in 四天王寺 2016

Shitennoji Temple & surroundings • Jul 6–8 Shitennoji temple hosts one of many national tanabata events celebrating the meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi (represented by the stars Vega and Altair). As the legend goes, the Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. To celebrate this traditional Japanese star festival, a 27-meter bamboo grass tunnel decorated with tanzaku (colorful strips of paper that people write their wishes on) and an artificial LED Milky Way will appear at Shitennoji Temple.

The venue will be lined with street stalls and there will also be various events, including a concert, an astronomical viewing session, and workshops about the stars. On July 7, a fire ritual will be held at the temple to burn the tanzaku.

ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway Stn, 5-min walk • TEL: 06-67751400 • tanabatanoyuube.net

Chatta Festival Fireworks Display

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みなと舞鶴ちゃったまつり花火大会

Higashi Maizuruhama-Kaigan Coast, Kyoto • Jul 31

Colorful fireworks explosions boom against the backdrop of the night sky and sea. This spectacular display is held at the last stage of the local festival, Chatta Matsuri. On this day, the competitive boat race – the Maizuru City Chatta Regatta – will be held. Decorated with lights, boats will parade in Maizuru bay around 5:30pm. Finally, spectators will be treated to 5,000 fireworks lighting up the evening sky.

TIME: 7:30pm fireworks start • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Higashi-Maizuru Stn, 15-min walk • maizuru.or.jp

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WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / KANSAI TEMPLE MARKETS

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Explore Kansai s wonderful monthly temple markets and grab a bargain. You ll find a lot of antiques, including old kimono, ceramics and lacquerware, but you may also unearth some more contemporary curiosities. Perfect as souvenirs or gifts for friends and relatives back home.

Sakai Fish Auction 堺 大魚夜市

Ohama Park, Sakai • Jul 31

» Shitennoji Temple Flea

Market:

July 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka • Access: 5min walk from Shitennojimae Stn, Tanimachi Line » Toji Market Kyoto:

July 21 • Toji Temple • Access: 15min walk from JR Kyoto Stn » Kitano Tenmangu

Market:

July 25 • Kitano Tenmangu Shrine • Access: Tenman-gu-mae bus stop

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Events

Gion Festival 祇園祭

Yasaka Shrine and Surroundings, Kyoto • Jul 1–31 One of the top three festivals in Japan; various ancient ceremonies are held at venues around the central Kyoto during this month. One of the highlights, the grand parade of yamaboko floats, is on the 17th and 24th.

ADMISSION: Free • kyokanko.or.jp/gion/junkou.html

Experience the exciting atmosphere of the Ouo Yoichi fish auction where enthusiastic auctioneers shout at the top of their lungs to bid for fresh fish in this traditional summer event, held every year in Sakai for the past 700 years! The auction itself starts at 7pm but there are also some 400 stalls to browse and various stage shows to enjoy at this summer spectacle, including a boxing and Thai kickboxing competition and a flea market. The event culminates in a fireworks display.

TIME: 1pm–9:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Line Sakai Stn, 3-min walk •

yoich.com

Tenjin Festival 天神祭

Osaka Temmangu Shrine, Osaka • Jul 25 (24 festival eve)

Drawing 1 million festivalgoers every year, this is one of the largest religious events in Japan. A vibrant parade of portable shrines begins at 3:30pm. Hundreds of boats sail up and down the river Okawa from 6pm. Fireworks will be lit from 7pm.

TIME: 12:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osakatemmangu Stn, 3-min walk • tenjinmatsuri.com

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Events

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Provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau

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Tezutsu Hanabi – Hand-held Fireworks 七夕祭り 手筒花火

Yagawa Shrine, Shiga • Jul 7 Come and see the magnificent fireworks show put on as part of tanabata matsuri at Yagawa-jinja.

Braving a torrent of falling sparks, each performer holds a flamespewing tube in their arms for two minutes. Roaring pillars of fire shoot up as high as 10 meters and sparks scatter all around.

With a terrific explosion, these performers will vanish from sight for a moment at the end. It s all to impress the spectators, and of course, the gods of the Yagawa shrine! In the afternoon there will be a ninja show, and a dance show in the street, and there will be other attractions for children in the early evening. The fireworks display will start around 7pm.

TIME: 4:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Konan Stn, 20-min walk •

facebook.com/kokatezutsu

Osaka Star Festival 星愛七夕まつり

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Surroundings, Osaka • Jul 7 Tenjinbashisuji shopping arcade hosts an annual celebration of Tanabata. A colorful parade moves through the streets, past busy food and craft stalls, and there are live performances at the shrine.

TIME: 4pm–9pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Osakatemmangu Stn; Minamimorimachi Subway Stn •

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Kochi Festival 河内祭 （御船祭り）

River Koza & surroundings, Wakayama • Jul 23 & 24

A boat parade will take place in the picturesque town of Kozagawa-cho in Kushimoto.This centuries-old ceremony was originally held to celebrate the return of the victorious Koza navy fleet in the 13th century.

Listen to a local boatman singing festive songs from wooden vessels illuminated with paper lanterns on the 23rd. The next day, these ancient style battleships will proceed along the Koza River. Enjoy the shishimai lion dance particular to this region and the fiercely competitive kaidenma boat races, among other cultural ceremonies.

TIME: 6pm Jul 23rd; 10am Jul 24th • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Koza Stn, 20-min walk • kushimoto.jp/kozajisi/sub03.html

tenjinmatsuri.com/tenjinmatsuri_navi/ shogyoji_shinshin#16_00

Dotonbori River Night Cruise with Namba Oriental Hotel Namba, Osaka • Jul 13 Namba Oriental Hotel, the winner of 2015 TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, offers Dotonbori River Night Cruise on the night of Namba Yasaka Funatogyo Festival, Shinto-styled boat procession.

The festival will be held on July 13th, 2016. Namba Oriental Hotel attends as one of the escorts of a

flagship sailed by Namba Yasaka Shrine. Through the cruise, guests can enjoy meal, drinks and the stunning Dotonbori neon view from the boat in addition to the brilliant master of ceremony performed by local comedian Onna to Otoko . Reservations essential.

Time: 6:30–8:50pm • Admission: ¥15,000 (all inclusive) • Access: • Minatomachi River Place, Namba Stn. 10 mins walk • nambaorientalhotel.co.jp/post-english/ funatogyo2016/

Pokemon Lab ポケモン研究所∼キミにもできる！新た な発見∼

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Knowledge Capital in Grand Front Osaka • Jul 16–Sep 4 This is an exhibition where visitors can experience scientific methods and processes through the world of Pokemon. Visit three rooms as a researcher and enjoy the activities through using Pokemon characters.

TIME: 9:30am–6pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,200 (¥1,400 at door) adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Osaka Stn, 3-min walk • pokemonlab.jp/english.html

Events

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI TIME: 8pm–9pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Nankai Wakayama-ko Stn, 10-min walk • w-hanabi.com

Kyoto Summer Kimono Wearing 無料ゆかた体験会

Koto International Community House – “Kokoka,” Kyoto • Jul 15 English-speaking staff will help you to put on yukata (summer kimonos). Choose your favorite one from a huge collection. If you bring your own yukata, you can be dressed here and wear it to the Gion Festival.

Nachi Ogi Festival

TIME: 10am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway Keage Stn, 5-min walk • ameblo.jp/kimono-enjoy

Tennoji Zoo Nighttime Viewing 天王寺動物園ナイトZoo

Tennoji Zoo, Osaka • Jul 29 & 30, Aug 5, 6, 12–15, 19 & 20 Check out what the animals are doing after dark! Tennoji Zoo is offering a fantastic opportunity to see the nocturnal habits of animals as it extends is normal opening hours for a few nights during the summer holidays.

TIME: 9:30am–9pm • ADMISSION:

¥500 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Tennoji Stn, 10-min walk • www.jazga. or.jp/tennoji

Umeda Summer Kimono Festival 2016

Kiseki no Hoshi Botanical Museum, Hyogo • Jul 9–Aug 31 Insectivorous plants are always popular with all ages! An extensive collection from giant trumpet pitchers to miniature Venus flytraps will be on display.

Take part in this two-day summer event and enjoy this great opportunity to wear a yukata.

The Bon dance will start at 6pm and many other great activities are planned.

Insectivorous Plant Exhibition

Nachisan • kumanonachitaisha.or.jp

2016 Water Sports Festival in Wakayama

Himeji City Science Museum Reopening Event

Wakayama Marine City, Wakayama • Jul 23 & 24

あつまれサイエンスショーの達人

Get on a banana boat or ride on a jet ski. Have fun and cool off with a range of different water sports in this perfect summer day out for all ages.

Himeji City Science Museum, Hyogo • Jul 16 Science-based performances for children will be put on. Four skilled performers offer intriguing scientific shows to celebrate the reopening of the Himeji City Science Museum.

TIME: 9:50am–4pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Himeji Stn, bus to Hoshinoko Yakata-mae • city.himeji. lg.jp/atom

2016マリンスポーツフェスティバル

TIME: 9:40am–3pm Jul 23rd, 10am–4pm Jul 24th • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Wakayama Stn; Nankai Wakayamashi Stn, bus to Wakayama Marine City • marinacity.com

Wakayama Port Fireworks Display 第64回港まつり花火大会

Wakayama-Ko Port, Wakayama • Jul 24

Wakayama Nachi Ogi Festival

Hyogo

ACCESS: JR Kii-Katsuura Stn, bus to

adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Maiko Stn Intercity bus to Awaji Yumebutai • kisekinohoshi.jp

TIME: depends on each event • ADMISSION: most events free • ACCESS: JR Osaka Stn • umeda-connect.jp/event/ detail/503

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free •

TIME: 10am–6pm • ADMISSION: ¥600

梅田ゆかた祭2016

Grand Front Osaka and surroundings • Jul 30 & 31

Many unique rituals are carried out at Nachi Ogi Matsuri, a registered national cultural asset.

The iconic procession of large torches toward the Nachi waterfall takes place around 2pm.

那智の扇祭り

Kumano Nachi-Taisha, Wakayama • Jul 14

This is a special attraction during summer in Wakayama where 3,000 spectacular fireworks draw 30,000 spectators annually. A curtain of light spreads across the sky at the climax of the event.

食虫植物展

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Iwami Kagura Dance 石見神楽奉納

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto • Jul 16 One of the classical, Japanese performing arts, Iwami Kagura, featuring brightly colored costumes, lively music, and dynamic dancing depicts some of Japan s myths and legends. Be mezmerized by an eight-headed monster serpent moving vigorously across the stage.

TIME: 6:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Keihan Line, Gion-shijo Stn, 7-min walk • facebook.com/ iwamIKagura/posts/794087730624643

Manga Museum Workshop 2016夏休み特別えむえむワークシ ョップ

Kyoto International Manga Museum, Kyoto • Jul 30 & 31, Aug 5–8 A workshop on drawing manga for children over 10 and aspiring manga artists will take place; it consists of three different 1-day courses. Must book by Jul 15.

A course: Jul 30 & 31. B course: Aug 5 & 6. C course: Aug 7 & 8.

See website for details.

TIME: 12:30am–5pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 for each course plus usual entrance fee ¥800 adults, concessions • ACCESS: Karasumaoike Subway Stn, 6-min walk • kyotomm.jp/english

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Outdoor Backyard Zen Mini-Festa

Japan International Birdman Rally

Nara Tenkawa-jinja Annual Festival 例大祭

Enjoy weaving through gorgeous flowers in one of the largest lotus groves on a guided cruise for about 40 minutes.

Booking is essential.

TIME: 7am, 8:15am, 9:30am and

Tenkawa Shrine, Nara • Jul 16 & 17 This is the largest event at the Tenkawa-jinja celebrating the patron god of entertainers.

On the 17th, the main shrine building is open to the public.

A Noh play will be put on by top-class actors.

TIME: 7pm Jul 16th, 10am Jul 17th • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Shimoichiguchi Stn, one-hour bus ride to Tenkawajinja-mae • tenkawajinja.or.jp

Nara-Machi Night Culture – Tale of the Supernatural ならまちナイトカルチャー 真夏の怪談

Gango-ji, Nara • Jul 29–31 & Aug 5–7 Experience spooky Japanese storytelling on the tatami mats of this centuries-old temple. Phone 0742-27-1820 to book.

TIME: 8pm–9pm (venue opens 7pm)

• ADMISSION: ¥1,000 including usual entrance fee • ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, 12-min walk • narashikanko. or.jp/event/index.php?m=d&id=178

Shiga Lotus Cruise ハスクルージング

Karasuma Peninsula, Shiga • Jul 16–Aug 14

Events

10:45am • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR Kusatsu Stn, bus to Mizunomori • kanko-kusatsu. com/info/hasu-2

Japan International Birdman Rally 鳥人間コンテスト2016

Matsubara Suiei-Jo Beach, Shiga • Jul 30 & 31 Share in the nail-bitingly nervious energy as participants fly their homemade, human-powered aircrafts off the lake jetty!

Will they fly or will they flop?!

Salt Valley, Osaka • Jul 30

Ever remember or imagined yourself drinking from a keg in a backyard? How about those red Solo cups? Seen them in movies or remember them from your Uni days? Join BEER ZEN at an outdoor back yard keg party - OBZ (Outdoor Backyard Zen) at Salt Valley in Ashiharabashi. Salt Valley has the perfect outdoor backyard for a mini-festa. Short walk from JR loop line (30 seconds) and Daikokucho station (5 min). Seven kegs of craft beer, four food booths, two t-shirt booths and one stamp booth. Kids area. No smoking. ¥1,000 for US pint. Red Solo cups. Enjoy an afternoon of good beer, good food and great people.

TIME: 8am Jul 30th, 6am Jul 31st • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Biwako Line, Hikone Stn • ytv.co.jp/birdman

TIME: 1:30-5:30pm • ADMISSION: FREE • ACCESS: JR Ashiharabashi Stn, 30 secs • Saltvalley.jp • Facebook.com/beerzen

Saotobi – High Diving 竿飛び

Iseki-ji, Shiga • Aug 1 In this unique ritual held at the Isekiji temple, situated on the edge of a bluff facing Lake Biwa, Buddhist ascetics will dive into the lake from a seven-meterhigh plank stretching over the surface of the water. It is one of the ascetic practices that has been passed down from the 9th century.

TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Omihachiman Stn, bus to Horikiriko, 40-min walk • isakiji.jp/ index.html

Hisoku—Butoh by Ima Tenko Kyoto Butoh-kan • Jul 7, 14, 21, 28

The first perfomance at the newly opened Kyoto Butoh-kan (the first theater in the world dedicated to Butoh dance), featuring butoh dance

by Kyoto-based performer Ima Tenko and live Nagauta Shamisen.

TIME: 6–7pm • ADMISSION: (special reduced price) General ¥3,000, Students ¥2,500 • ACCESS: 5-min walk from subway Karasuma or Tozai line, Karasuma Oike Stn, Exit 6. • butohkan.jp

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Art

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Dali Exhibition

From the Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: Kuniyoshi & Kunisada Kobe City Museum

During the Edo period (1603–1868), ukiyo-e served as the equivalent of modern-day pinups for celebrities and as an important medium for presenting the latest entertainment news and fashion trends. As a result, once Japan opened up to the Western world in the 19th century, Japanese art was dominated by two great woodblock print artists, Kuniyoshi Utagawa (1797–1861) and Kunisada Utagawa (1786–1864). This exhibition showcases prints by these two talented ukiyo-e artists who enjoyed enormous success in the late Edo period and who have been renowned ever since.

Through these works, selected from the globally acclaimed ukiyo-e collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, visitors will have a chance experience a taste of Edo society.

Kuniyoshi & Kunisada ukiyo-e exhibition • OPEN: 9:30am– 5:30pm (until 7pm Sat) • CLOSED: Mon (except July 18) & Jul 19 • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Kaigan Subway Line, Kyu Kyoryuchi Daimarumae Stn, 6-min walk • TEL: 078-391-0035 • www.ytv.co.jp/ kunikuni

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Salvador Dali exhibition • OPEN: 9am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon (except July 18) • ADMISSION: ¥1,600 • ACCESS: Tozai Subway Line, Higashiyama Stn, 9-min walk • TEL: 050-5542-8600 • salvador-dali.jp

Detroit Institute of Arts Exhibition – European Masterworks from Across the Atlantic Ocean Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Art The Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Art is presenting 52 European masterworks from the collection at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), located in Detroit, Michigan, including artworks by Impressionists and PostImpressionists such as Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse, and Picasso. Among the 52 masterpieces, 15 are being displayed in Japan for the first time, such as PostImpressionist Vincent van Gogh s landscape painting The Oise at Auvers and 20th-century Austrian artist Oskar Kokoschka s The Elbe Near Dresden. The exhibition is divided into four sections, beginning with 18th-century impressionist works and ending with 20th-century masterpieces.

European Masterworks exhibition • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm (admission until 4:30pm) • CLOSED: Mon (except July 18, Aug 15, Sep 19) & Tue Jul 19 • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Tennoji Stn or Abenobashi Stn, 10-min walk • TEL: 06-4301-7285 • www.ktv.jp/event/detroit

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Henri Matisse アンリ•マティス ≪窓≫ 1916年 City of Detroit Purchase

Utagawa Kunisada 歌川国貞「蛍狩当風俗」三代目澤村田之助（部分）万延元（1860）年 Museum of Fine Arts，Boston．William Sturgis Bigelow Collection，11.42145b Photograph © Museum of Fine Arts，Boston

© Salvador Dalí, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, JASPAR, Japan, 2016.

Spanish artist and surrealist icon, Salvador Dalí, is known for the striking and bizarre images in his surrealist work, and perhaps best known for his painting of melting clocks in a landscape setting, titled The Persistence of Memory. He is among the most versatile and prolific artists of the 20th century with a repertoire that includes film and photography, in collaboration with a range of artists in a variety of media. Though chiefly remembered for his paintings, in the course of his long career he successfully turned to sculpture, printmaking, fashion, advertising, writing, and, perhaps most famously, filmmaking in his collaborations with Luis Bunuel and Alfred Hitchcock.

He was known for his flamboyant personality as much as his artistic work. This exhibition celebrates his work with a series of large-scale sculptures and accompanying prints.

Salvador Dalí サルバドール・ダリ《子ども、女への壮大な記念碑》1929 年、国立ソフィア王妃芸術セン ター蔵Collection of the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

National Museum of Ethnology Explore the impact that one road has had on the Aboriginal people from one of the most remote areas of Australia. The 1,850-kilometer Canning Stock Route in the desert of Western Australia is the world s longest pastoral road and has been the site of many interactions between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples.

Works created by contemporary Aboriginal artists for a project by the National Museum of Australia are on display.

Until Jul 19 • OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Wed • ADMISSION: ¥420 • ACCESS: Osaka Monorail, Banpaku Kinenkoen Stn, 15min walk • TEL: 06-6876-2151 • shokoku-ji. jp/j_now.html

Yuuki Tsukiyama Exhibition

Kyoto DDD Gallery Rhizomatiks is a Japanese company, founded in 2006, which is dedicated to creating large-scale commercial and artistic projects using both the arts and technology. Since their beginnings, the Rhizomatiks have continuously pioneered a broad spectrum of creative genres always transcending existing frameworks, employing the latest digital technologies and media spanning from web to interactive spatial design. For this exhibition they have chosen graphic design as their theme, a realm of design encompassing numerous intuitive elements that comes about through an extremely abstract process.

Until Jul 9 • OPEN: 11am–7pm (until 6pm Sat) • CLOSED: Sun • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Tozai Subway Line, Uzumasa Tenjingawa Stn, Exit 1, 3-min walk • TEL: 075-871-1480 • dnp. co.jp/CGI/gallery/schedule/detail. cgi?l=2&t=2&seq=00000674

鹿苑寺蔵

One Road: The World of Contemporary Aboriginal Art

Rhizomatiks: The Blind Spot of Graphic Design

重要文化財「鹿苑寺大書院旧障壁画」双鶏図貼付 伊藤若冲筆

Osaka

Art

The 300th Anniversary of his Birth: Jakuchu

Tezukayama Gallery One of the main features of the work of this Kobe artist is the wide diversity of materials he uses to create his art. Utilizing materials such as wood, metal, resin and paint, Tsukiyama constantly reveals the possibilities and embodiment of each material, capturing their unique characteristics.

Until Jul 30 • OPEN: 12pm–7pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Yotsubashi Subway Stn, Exit 5, 3-min walk • TEL: 066534-3993 • tezukayama-g.com

Kyoto Mizumaru Anzai Exhibition Museum “Eki” Kyoto Mizumaru Anzai (1942–2014) was an illustrator active in his field since the 1970s and was revered for his very humorous works. This exhibition follows Anzai s career as well as introducing the work of Kozaburo Arashiyama, Haruki Murakami, and Makoto Wada who all moved in the same circles as Anzai.

Until Jul 10 • OPEN: 10am–8pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kyoto Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 075-352-1111 • kyoto.wjrisetan.co.jp/museum/index.html

Shokoku-ji Jotenkaku Art Museum

Hyogo Haruo Ohara: Light of Brazil, Scenes of Family Itami City Museum of Art Haruo Ohara (1909–1999) was a farmer, photographer and Japanese immigrant who has amassed acclaim in Brazil for his photographs of landscapes, family life, and the changing face of his town of Londrina. At the age of 17, Ohara immigrated from Japan to Brazil, where he first lived with his family in Sao Paulo.

Until Jul 18 • OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon (open national holiday) • ADMISSION: ¥700 • ACCESS: JR Itami Stn, 6-min walk • TEL: 072-772-7447 • artmuseum-itami.jp/jp/category/ exhibition/upcoming_exhibition

Nara Mind of Manyo Part 3: Landscapes Nara Prefectural Complex of Manyo Culture Nihonga is the traditional Japanese painting technique. It usually comparing with Yohga, the Western oil paintings, which came

Key works spanning the different stages of Ito Jakuchu s (1716–1800) long career will be featured to commemorate the 300th anniversary of his birth. Jakuchu was a Japanese painter of the mid-Edo period when Japan had closed its doors to the outside world. Many of his paintings concern traditionally Japanese subjects, particularly birds and flowers. Several of his otherwise traditional works display a great degree of experimentation with perspective, and with other very modern stylistic elements. In this special exhibition, 50 paintings on fusuma (folding screens) from Rokuon-ji (Kinkaku-ji – Kyoto s Golden Pavilion), created in 1759, are on display.

This exhibition also features one of Japan s most renowned cultural treasures, Jakuchu s 30-scroll set of bird-and-flower paintings titled Colorful Realm of Living Beings. The event will explore the life and work of one of Japan s most renowned and remarkable artists.

Jakuchu exhibition • OPEN: 10am–5pm (admission until 4:30pm) • ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: Karasuma Subway Line, Imadegawa Stn, Exit 3, 8-min walk • TEL: 075-241-0423 • shokoku-ji.jp/j_now. html

to Japan in the Meiji Era. All 154 works of Manyo Nihonga paintings will be on display. Please see the official website for details.

1-min walk • TEL: 074-454-1850 • manyo. jp/event/detail.html?id=157

Until Jul 31 • OPEN: 10am–5:30pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: JR or Kintetsu Sakurai Stn, Kame bus to Manyo Bunkakan Nishiguchi,

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI /

Live Music

Akiko Yano Trio featuring Will Lee & Chris Parker

AUG

13 14

Pop-jazz singer and pianist Akiko Yano is a recognizable artist not only in her native Japan but also in the U.S. and Europe. She released her debut album, Japanese Girl, in 1976 when she was 21 years old and is now touring to celebrate the 40th anniversary of that recording. She will be joined by bassist Will Lee and drummer Chris Parker. Akiko Yano is also known for her work with Studio Ghibli animations and during her early career recording and playing with Yellow Magic Orchestra featuring Ryuichi Sakamoto. Her latest release was the 2015 album Welcome To Jupiter. Akiko s credits extend beyond her album projects. She was showcased by the famed Japanese animation film company, Studio Ghibli. Akiko composed the music for the films My Neighbors and The Yamadas, and created and

Jul/Aug

Ayumi Hamasaki

Eddi Reader Jul 4 Ex-Fairground Attraction, Scottish singer-songwriter Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Misia Jul 14–15 Japanese pop and R&B vocalist Orix Theater, Osaka • Pop • 7pm • ¥8,500 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Aldious Jul 16 Japanese female metal group Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 6:30pm • ¥4,300/¥4,800 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Pop • 5pm Jul 16th; 4pm Jul 17th & 18th • ¥7,900/¥8,900 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Fuji Rock Festival ft. Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ben Harper, James Blake, Battles, Kula Shaker, Wilco, Stereophonics, Beck, and others Jul 22–24

Tritops Jul 25 Korean boy band Big Cat, Osaka • Pop • 2:15pm/7pm • ¥5,800/¥6,300 • TEL: 06-6258-5008

illion Jul 27

Naeba Ski resort, Niigata • Mixed genres • 9am • ¥19,000 one-day ticket; ¥36,000 two-day ticket; ¥43,000 three-day ticket • Campsite ¥3,000 • Parking ¥3,000

Jul 24

Japanese singer and pianist 40th anniversary live • Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Aug 13 & 14 • jazz-pop • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Group Sounds • 6:30pm • ¥3,500/¥4,000 • TEL: 075351-1321

Japanese pop-idol vocalist

Miliyah Kato

performed the sound effects using only her voice for two short films Yadosagashi and Mizugumo Monmon by animation director, Hayao Miyazaki.

Japanese Group Sounds band, new album release gig

Jul 16–18

Rock & Pop

Radwimps vocalist Yojiro Noda Zepp, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,900 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Mika Nakashima Jul 29

Japanese pop vocalist Osaka Jo Hall, Osaka • Pop • 6pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

The Captains Jul 24

AUG

Japanese vocalist and singer Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka • Pop-rock • 6:30pm • ¥6,800 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

illion @ Zepp Osaka

Japanese pop-rock hip-hop vocal group Zepp, Osaka • Pop-rock-hip hop • 7pm • ¥7,900 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Granrodeo Jul 30–31 Japanese rock duo Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 6pm Jul 30th; 4pm Jul 31st • ¥6,500 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

GReeeeN Jul 29 & 30

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

13

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

AUG

8

The Temper Trap The Temper Trap are an Australian indie-rock band formed in 2005. Relocating to London, England in 2008, they released their debut album Conditions a year later in 2009. The album charted well in the UK and won the group the ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) Music Award for Best Group of 2010.

It would be another three years before the follow-up self-titled album. Last month saw the release (after another long stretch) of the band s third album, Thick as Thieves. Guitarist Joseph Greer said, We ve just been writing and wanting to get it right. There is no point releasing something if we re not super happy about it. Of the album, critics have said that it captures the crowd-pleasing sound of their debut, unleashing likeable enough pop-rock with a bright electronic sheen.

Stray From The Path

Sarah Brightman

Aug 5

Jul 21

Formed in 2001, New York Metalcore band Stray From The Path released their first three recordings independently ( People Over Profit ep 2002, Audio Prozac 2003, and Our Oceania 2005) before signing to Sumerian records. With only guitarist Thomas Withams still in the line-up from the original members of 2001, the band s website describes them as striving for a style of music that is not common in the modern age. They also emphasise that they show no mercy in the lyrics when they see injustice.

The music is fast and furious, punk in attitude with the growling vocals of many a metal outfit. Not for the faint of heart!

Often credited as the creator of the classical crossover genre, Sarah Brightman started out with the UK dance troupe Hot Gossip before a West End musical debut in the popular show Cats. In 1987, as part of the cast of The Phantom of the Opera she sold more than 40 million albums worldwide. With 180 gold and platinum sales globally, she was named in 2010 by Billboard as the fifth most influential and best-selling classical artist of the 2000 s.

Sarah Brightman s latest studio album was the 2014 Voce, though for a limited period a downloadable album, Rarities, a mix of unreleased tracks, B-sides, demos and limitededition releases is available.

U.S. Metalcore Band Tour of Japan • Pangea, Osaka • Aug 5 • Metalcore • 6pm • ¥3,500/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-4708-0061

Australian rock band formed 2001 • Club Quattro, Osaka • Aug 8 • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Classical crossover British vocalist • Orix Theater, Osaka • Jul 21 • Classical Crossover • 7pm • ¥13,000/¥15,000 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

Live Music aiko Aug 5 & 6 Japanese pop singer and band Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka • Pop • 6:30pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Stray From The Path Aug 5 U.S. Metalcore band Japanese tour Pangea, Osaka • Metalcore • 6pm • ¥3,500/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-4708-0061

The Temper Trap Aug 8 Australian rock band formed 2005 Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Screw Aug 10

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 12pm & 5pm Aug 13th; 5pm Aug 14th • ¥8,000 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Akiko Yano Trio featuring Will Lee & Chris Parker Aug 13 & 14 Japanese pianist and vocalist 40th Anniversary tour Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Singer-songwriter • 4:30pm/7:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Summer Sonic 2016 Osaka Aug 20 & 21 Radiohead, Yellow Monkey, Fergie, Underworld, The Offspring, Weezer, The Jacksons, The Struts, Suede, Baby Metal, and more Maishima Summer Sonic Osaka Site, Osaka • Mixed genre • 10am • ¥14,000 standard one-day ticket; ¥25,000 platinum one-day ticket; ¥25,500 twoday ticket • TEL: 0570-02-9999

Last live tour Muse, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,800/¥5,300 • TEL: 06-6245-5389

Hakuei Aug 12 20th anniversary live Muse, Osaka • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,480 • TEL: 06-6245-5389

The Muggles Every Fri & Sat Mellow ballads, classic rock, and dynamic rock n roll from Osaka-based jamming band Woodstock Café, Ashiya • Rock & Group Sounds • entrance free (¥2,000 for 2 drinks and snack ) • TEL: 07-9734-1044

Royz Aug 11

Jazz & Blues

Japanese visual-kei rock band

Hikari Aoki

Big Cat, Osaka • Rock • 6pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Jul 11–13

Koji Kikkawa Aug 13 Japanese pop-rock singer since 1984 Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka • Pop rock • 5pm • ¥7,560 • TEL: 06-6341-3525

Mitsuru Matsuoka Aug 13 & 14 Ex-Sophia vocalist and actor

Japanese jazz vocalist 12th anniversary Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 6:30pm/8:30pm • ¥5,500/¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Robert Glasper Experiment Jul 20 & 21 American jazz pianist and producer Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,800/¥9,800 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Live Music

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Eddi Reader © Genevieve Stevenson

(Wales, Scotland, England and Ireland). These books and papers have been educating me about songs long forgotten since 1900 and I am going through them to find exciting melodies and words not heard by anyone who is alive today. I would like to honor that find with some new recordings. These recordings will accompany a book being released about the items I inherited. The musical books are only part of a large historical collection. I discovered my grandfather s brother was a leader in the revolutionary movements in Ireland and Scotland in 1916. It seems that this inheritance includes information that history departments of universities do not have. It was all found under beds and in cupboards where it has all remained hidden since the 1950s.

JUL

4

Previously, you mentioned that while writing Vagabond, you had to choose 14 songs out of 27 for the final product and that you might use the remaining songs on another album. Will there be another studio album including some of those songs or newer material?

INTERVIEW

Eddie Reader KS caught up with Scottish singersongwriter and ex-Fairground Attraction vocalist Eddi Reader prior to her return to Japan.

We last spoke with you before your Japan tour in 2014 when Vagabond was due to be released in Japan. What has been happening for you musically since 2014?

I have inherited 50 or more historical musical books which trace popular traditional music of the four countries in the British Islands

Naoko Terai Quintet Jul 21 Japanese jazz violinist Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz • 7pm/9:30pm • ¥8,500/¥8,800 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

New York Standards Quartet Jul 24 Quartet ft. Tim Armacost, David Berkman, Yasukawa Taiki, and Gene Jackson Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥4,700 • TEL: 075-255-7273

Marlena Shaw Last Tour In Japan Featuring Chuck Rainey, David T. Walker, Larry Nash, Harvey Mason “Who Is This Bitch Anyway“ Jul 25 & 26

16

Yes. I have some of the Vagabond sessions still to edit or re-write or re-record. These will surface as soon as my obsession with the 1900s has finished playing with me.

As my best of album is now available, the Japan gig will be showcasing this album with songs going back to Fairground Attraction right up to the present day. I try to be spontaneous when I perform so all performances will have a sprinkling of Fairground Attraction songs and songs from all over my four decades in music – those songs gave me the wings to fly as far away as Japan.

I will always be grateful to Japan for the welcome it gave me and the music.

Scottish singer-songwriter and ex-Fairground attraction vocalist • Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Jul 4 • Singer-songwriter • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Jazz and soul singer since the 60s final tour Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Jazz/ soul vocals • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥12,000/¥13,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Kumi Adachi Guitar Trio Jul 28 Japanese fusion blues guitarist Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Blues Fusion • 7:30pm • ¥3,200/¥4,000 • TEL: 075255-7273

Naoko Terai Quintet @ Mister Kelly’s, Osaka

World BOSSA NOVA Special Live Sergio Augusto from Brazil Jul 16

Classical Sarah Brightman Jul 21 Classic female vocalist

Brazilian guitarist and vocals Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Bossa Nova • 3pm/7pm • ¥4,500 • TEL: 06-6342-5821

Orix Theater, Osaka • singer • 7pm • ¥13,000/¥15,000 • TEL: 06-6341-4506

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

E.T. & Indiana Jones in Concert Aug 8 Live Movie score in concert with the Osaka Philharmonic Orchestra Osaka Festival Hall, Osaka • Orchestra • E.T. 2pm; Indiana Jones 7pm • ¥4,800/¥9,800 • TEL: 0570-20-0888

Club

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

Double

JUL

Frank Mueller

15

Jul 15 Great news about the club Onzieme crew! While Onzieme sadly closed its doors in March, the ex-Onzieme crew has been supporting parties and festivals since its closure and they are starting new parties at different venues throughout Osaka. This month, they have invited German techno producer Frank Mueller, aka Beroshima, and Japanese techno icon Tasaka to perform at club Double in Higashi Shinsaibashi. Mueller has been a pioneer of electronic music since the mid 90s and one of his best known tracks Horizon, released by Cocoon recordings, became the No.1 hit in Ibiza in 2007 (and one of the best selling records for Cocoon). He was a frequent favorite at WIRE, the biggest Japanese techno festival produced by Takkyu Ishino, which ended in 2013.

Together with DJ Tasaka, you may be able to reminisce in some good old WIRE sounds as well. Also, Onzieme s sister venue Zakuro (Pomegranate) finally opens July 1st. It is a hip French restaurant with cool music and luxy vibe, just like Onzieme. Zakuro will also hold lounge-style music events once in a while so an eye on their website for more details.

Do Techno (Techno) • DJs: Frank Mueller, Tasaka, Senda, Tahico, Takayuki • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,500/1D, Ladies: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6234-7678 • club-double.com

» zakuro-osaka.com

July 1 (Fri) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – Nightbirds feat. The Upbeats (Drum n Bass) • Acts: The Upbeats, Bigted, Rasty • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka. com

Metro

Wakuwaku (Hip Hop/Reggae) ACTS: Bbcs, Fukamidori, Tamai-i, Psycho Patch&Cronosfader, Slang, Bonzo + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro. ne.jp

Union Trunk – 3rd Anniversary (House/ Techno) DJS: Iori Wakasa, Loe, YodaHaruka, Masanao Shibata, Miki Shinichi feat.

Katsuaki • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6251-2242 • club-union.jp

2 (Sat) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – Roska (Bass) ACTS: Roska, Hmen + more • OPEN: 11pm

• ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) •

18

WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Double

7 (Thu) Circus

Himlen (Techno/House)

Circus 4th Anniversary – Whitesquare (Techno/House)

DJS: Mika Kitten, Nao Okada, Koichi

ACTS: Whitesquare, Ageishi, Sekitova

Sato, Dmitri, Yasu#13 + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: GENTLEMEN: ¥2,500/1D, LADIES: ¥2,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6234-7678 • clubdouble.com

• OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Joule

8 (Fri)

Yabai Records Party (Psy Trance)

Circus

LIVE: Damage • DJS: Yabai DJs, Brave aka

Circus 4th Anniversary – Powwow feat. DJ Nobu (Techno/ House)

Keisuke, Buzz, Hofmann, Kouhei + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Triangle

DJS: Nobu, CMT, DNT • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

ReVibes (Hardcore/Rave) ACTS: Kan Takahiko, M-Project,

Double

RedOgre, Grindcircus, Numb‘n’dub, Savege States, Tomoyu, Trachine + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62122264 • triangleosaka.com

Attendance (Techno/House)

3 (Sun) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – Moodymann (Disco/House) DJS: Moodymann, Akihiro, Questa • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500 (ADV: ¥3,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

DJS: Mr.Jones, Shin Nishimura, Shine, Youk, Hisashi, Iori • OPEN: TBA • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6234-7678 • club-double.com

WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-62413822 • circus-osaka.com

Jaai Onoshim – Silent People (Psy Trance) DJS: Maro, Material, Mat, Pepe, Yuki, 6256 + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • iflyer. tv/ja/Bar-JAAI

Joule Relation (Hip Hop/Dance) LIVE: Pes from Ripslyme, Basi from Insist Complex Cornflax, Super Uchoten Brothers • DJS: Hi-C from Kireek, Key Toy’s Crew, Idiotyuuta, Shinya + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

Metro Trench Town vol.10 meets Welcome to Country (Reggae) ACTS: BreakJam, EastRock, Sensation, SunTown, Yard Sign + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Rooftop Bar OO

9 (Sat) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – Tomoki Tamura (Techno/House) DJ: Tomoki Tamura - Open to Last • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 •

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Siine (House/Techno) DJS: Toru Ikemoto, Yuichirou Miyamoto, Ryutaro, Ben, Mitsuyas, Mamoru Hamada + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500 (ADV: ¥1,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-49744835 • oo-u.jp

WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI / Troopcafe Sadar Bahar Japan Tour in Kobe (House/Disco/Funk) DJS: Sadar Bahar, Kensei, Mitsuki • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥2,500/1D; FOREIGNERS: ¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-3213130 • troopcafe.jp

16 (Sat) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary x Club Snoozer – Soichiro Tanaka Open to Last (Rock/Dance) DJ: Soichiro Tanaka • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

10 (Sun) Circus

Joule Bikini Night (EDM/Electro)

Circus 4th Anniversary – Kakato (Dance Music)

DJS: Mitomi Tokoto + more • OPEN: TBA •

LIVE: Kakato, Punch&Mighty, Metome •

TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Shinsaibashi •

DJ: Altz • OPEN: 7pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000

(ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

15 (Fri) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – London Elektricity (Drum n Bass)

Rooftop Bar OO Hed Kandi Pool Party – Day 2 (House/Techno) Takizawa, Yasuca, Sak, Milk Bro., Soery + more • OPEN: 2pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,700 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-4974-4835 • oo-u.jp

Triangle

11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

T.F.C presents Trippin Factory (Drum n Bass/Bass/Hip Hop)

Second Royal – Koncos Magic Hour Release Tour (Electro/Indie) LIVE: Koncos, Stuts, Seuss, She Said • DJS: Halfby, Handsomeboy Technique,

Ta-1, Colaboy + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,200) • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Rooftop Bar OO Hed Kandi Pool Party – Day 1 (House/Techno) DJS: Max Vangeli, Yasuca, Hikaru Takai,

High Velocity, Takekiyo Ishimoto, Fanky Kow + more • OPEN: 8pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,700 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-4974-4835 • oo-u.jp

ACTS: Kuranaka aka 1945, Hyperjuice, Tribal Connection, GiddlahSelecta feat.

MC Aoi, Naga, Rasty b2b Bigted + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 (ADV: ¥1,500, FOREIGNERS: Free) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

Jazztronik, Isai, Megane, Nemo • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

DJS: Cio D’Or, Odoriko, Mika Kitten, Yu Kawabata, D41 + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • clubjoule.jp

Rooftop Bar OO

Troopcafe

Hed Kandi Pool Party – Day 3 (House/Techno)

Seditional Jazz presents Kobe Latin Nettaiya (Jazz/House)

DJS: My Digital Enemy, Yasca, Idiot Yuuka, Atsuo Morita, Monna Lisa, Ryota Aoki, Yuta Aoki, Goldtights + more • OPEN: 2pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,700 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-4974-4835 • oo-u.jp

ACTS: Kohji Matsuda, Ryo, Tatsuro, Hiroki Koh, Masahiro “hamo” Matsuo, Tetsu • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

LIVE: Kyotaro • DJS: Ryota Nozaki aka

Circus Lily – Ex Ultrademon – Japan Tour Osaka (Bass)

Garage – DJ Yoku feat. TeN (House) ACTS: Yoku feat. TeN from A Hundred Birds, Kawakami, Nakanishi, Shuzo Ogawa, Maru-Fuku • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥1,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

Zakuro Freedom Time presents Especial Festival 2016 (Nu Jazz/Crossover/ House) DJS: Kawasaki, Yoshihiro Okino + more • OPEN: TBA • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-3607 • zakuro-osaka.com

29 (Fri) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – Soichi Terada & Tofubeats (House/Dance) ACTS: Soichi Terada, Tofubeats + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troopcafe

22 (Fri) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – GothTrad Open to Last (Dubstep) DJ: Goth Trad • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 066241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Troopcafe

Transylvania & Utopia presents Photographer (Trance/House) Takashix, Yuki Higashi aka U-K, Milk Bro. + more • OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen ¥3,000; Ladies ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 • triangleosaka.com

Joule x Idps x Dejave presents Cio D Or in Joule (Techno)

4pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Triangle

ACTS: Photographer, Master Azia, AJ,

Joule

Jazztronica!! – Jazztronik New Album keystone Release Party in Kyoto (Nu Jazz/House/Crossover)

DJS: Lily (Ex Ultrademon) + more • OPEN:

DJS: London Elektricity + more • OPEN:

Metro

Metro

18 (Mon)

DJS: StoneBridge, Watsusi, Kentaro

Club

Joule Third Party x Bubble (Bass/Electro) DJS: 80Kidz, Yoshihiko Tanaka, Sou, Galette, Kinpon, Nagi + more • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6214-1223 • clubjoule.jp

Yousuke Yukimatsu Lazy Rouse Rlease Party (Electronic) DJS: Yousuke Yukimatsu, Young Animal, Bucco • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (Mail RESERVATION: ¥1,500/1D, FOREIGNERS: ¥1,000/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

30 (Sat) Circus Circus 4th Anniversary – DJ Krush Open to Last (Hip Hop/Techno) DJ: Krush • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 066241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Metro Nebula (House/Downtempo) DJS: Sprinkles, Kazuma, Podd • OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • TEL: 075752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

23 (Sat)

17 (Sun)

Circus

Circus

Apostrophy (Bass)

Circus 4th Anniversary – Nikita Zabelin (Techno/House)

DJS: Seiho + more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,000 • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circusosaka.com

DJS: Nikita Zabelin + more • OPEN: TBA • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

19

Cinema

/ WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

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

Toho Cinemas Umeda Now showing: We Are Your Friends,10 Cloverfield Lane, Er ist wieder da (GER), Deadpool, Zootopia, Collide, Money Monster, The Huntsman: Winter s War • From Jul 1: Warcraft, Brooklyn, Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence, • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan Tel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Umeda Burg7 Now showing: 10 Cloverfield Lane, The Lazarus Effect, Deadpool, London Has Fallen, The Huntsman: Winter s War, Zootopia, Extraction • From Jul 1: Alice Through the Looking Glass, • From Jul 9: Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV, Independence Day: Resurgence, • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Cine Libre Umeda Now showing: A Royal Night Out, Knock Knock, Armi Alive! (FIN), Spotlight, Ludwig (ITA), Triple 9, Miracles From Heaven, The Mirror Never Lies (IDN) • From Jul 2: Dare to Be Wild, The Program • From Jul 9: War Room, Sing Street • From Jul 16: AMY, Hollywood Banker • From Jul 23: Virgin Mountain (ISL), The Last Elvis, The Misplaced World (GER) • From Jul 30: Bølgen Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st and 15th of the month – ¥1,000

Theatre Umeda Now showing: Ex Machina, Legend • From Jul 9: Mustang (TUR) • From Jul 16: Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown • From Jul 23: Boomerang (FRA)

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• From Jul 30: Un tango más (SPA) Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_ umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men); 1st of the month – ¥1,000

© 2016 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Osaka

Osaka Station City Cinema Now showing: Dark Places, 10 Cloverfield Lane, Irrational Man, Secret in Their Eyes, Deadpool, De Surprise (NLD), The Huntsman: Winter s War, Zootopia • From Jul 1: Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 8: Pelé: Birth of a Legend • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence, The Conjuring 2 • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 22: Trumbo, While We re Young • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan Tel: 06-6346-3215 • osakastationcitycinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Toho Cinemas Namba Now showing: We Are Your Friends, Dark Places, 10 Cloverfield Lane, Er ist wieder da (GER), Deadpool, Zootopia, Money Monster, Collide, Southpaw, The Huntsman: Winter s War • From Jul 1: Warcraft, Brooklyn, Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 8: Pelé: Birth of a Legend • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence, Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 22: Trumbo • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan Tel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater.jp • Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100, every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Namba Parks Cinema Now showing: 10 Cloverfield Lane, Irrational Man, Citizenfour, Burnt, Deadpool, De Surprise (NLD), The Huntsman: Winter s War, Zootopia • From Jul 1: Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 2: The Program • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence, The Conjuring 2 • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan, Unfriended

Alice Through the Looking Glass

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

Cinem@rt Now showing: Lambert & Stamp, Legend, Steve McQueen: The Man & Le Mans • From Jul 16: AMY, Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown Tel: 06-6282-0815 • cinemart.co.jp/ theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men); Weds (women); 1st and 25th of the month – ¥1,000

Kyoto Movix Kyoto Now showing: 10 Cloverfield Lane, Irrational Man, Burnt, Knock Knock, Money Monster, Deadpool, De Surprise (NLD), Where to Invade Next, The Huntsman: Winter s War, Zootopia • From Jul 1: Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 2: The Program • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence, The Conjuring 2, Sing Street • From Jul 16: Finding Dory, AMY • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan, Unfriended Tel: 075-254-3215 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st and 20th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Kyoto Cinema Now showing: A Royal Night Out, Passion & Poetry: The Ballad of Sam Peckinpah (GER), Noma: My Perfect Storm • From Jul 2: Dare to Be Wild, Le meraviglie

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

• From Jul 9: Citizenfour, Spotlight, Timbuktu, Je m'appelle Hmmm… (FRA), The Good Lie • From Jul 16: Mountains May Depart • From Jul 23: Die abhandene Welt (GER), La voz dormida (SPA), Mia madre, My Sister's Keeper • From Jul 30: Legend, Carol Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo Now showing: Dark Place, We Are Your Friends, 10 Cloverfield Lane, Er ist wieder da (GER), Secret in Their Eyes, Money Monster, Collide, Deadpool, Zootopia, Harry and Tonto, • From Jul 1: Warcraft, Brooklyn, Alice Through the Looking Glass • From Jul 8: Pelé: Birth of a Legend • From Jul 9: Independence Day: Resurgence • From Jul 16: Finding Dory • From Jul 22: Trumbo, While We re Young • From Jul 23: The Shallows • From Jul 30: The Legend of Tarzan Tel: 075-813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Hyogo Kobe Kokusai Shochiku Now showing: The Sea of Trees • From Jun 4: Elektra (R. Strauss) • From Jun 11: Knock Knock, Burnt, Citizenfour • From Jun 18: Blur: New World Towers Tel: 078-230-3580 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Tues (women); 1st of the month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

TECH

/ COOL STUFF

Apps for Japan Travel Make your trip to Japan smooth sailing with these three handy apps.

Text: Dave Wingler • Images: KS

Traveling in Japan can be a truly awesome experience, however it can be a tricky place to navigate at times if you re unfamiliar with the language and don t know your way around. Instead of lugging around a bulky guide book, though, try a mobile app to help you find your feet. Here we present three apps that will make traveling in Japan easy.

Japan Travel Guide by Triposo

Learn Japanese – Phrasebook for Travel in Japan

» Cost: Free with inapp

purchases » What it does: Navigating Japanese

cities and finding the best tourist hotspots can be daunting for a newcomer. Japan Travel Guide comes to your aid by providing information on just about any Japanese location you could think of accompanied by useful maps. There are offline maps of the bigger cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. Alongside useful and detailed information, it also offers a phrasebook and pronunciation pointers. » Why it’s great: The app offers some incredibly useful information for travelers by providing hospital listings, exchange rates, and even the weather forecast. It can help you plan the perfect trip by suggesting the best places to see, eat, sleep, and shop.

You can even use the app to book hotels! » Developer: Triposo » Platform: Android and iOS » Website: triposo.com

» Cost: Free with inapp

purchases » What it does: If you d like to try your

hand at learning some useful phrases during your travels, Learn Japanese is a great pocket phrasebook. It is a wonderful tool for learning Japanese as it gives both the pronunciation and Japanese reading for each phrase. » Why it’s great: This easy-to-use app is useful for both travelers and language learners. It has recordings done by native Japanese and is replete with spot-on topics for your Japan adventure: greetings, directions, eating out, and emergency phrases.

For a small fee, you can upgrade for a huge catalog of spoken content.

One of the best ways to learn is by listening and repeating and this app makes that easy with slow, clear pronunciation from a native Japanese speaker. » Developer: Codegent » Platform: iOS and Android » Website: learnapps.co

Japan Connectedfree Wi-Fi » Cost: Free » What it does:

Connecting to a new hotspot every time you arrive in the vicinity of a free Wi-Fi area can be a hassle.

User registration, looking for the connection in a long list, and actually connecting to it, all takes up time that you may not have. Japan Connectedfree Wi-Fi speeds the process up. It allows you to connect to any free WiFi connection with a single tap. » Why it’s great: Saving money on cellphone bills is a priority for everyone.

This app helps users to steer clear of a data plan and use the free Wi-Fi connections available. The app lists countless free Wi-Fi connections in both cities and countryside areas and that s great for the budget! » Developer: NTT Japan » Platform: iOS and Android » Website: http://www.ntt-bp.net

David Wingler is an Apple Distinguished Educator and an applications developer, having created close to 20 apps for use in K-12 education environments. He is also a teacher at Osaka Kun-ei Girls’ Junior and Senior High.

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

GREAT PLACES TO EAT /

Food & Drink

FOODSPOTTING

Holy guacamole! Three Mexcellent spots that will leave you with plenty to taco-bout!

Text & Images: Adam Koch

Saboten

El Zocalo.Burrito

El Pancho

Look out! There s a new Mexican restaurant in town and it s already making a name for itself. Located in the bustling streets next to Yotsubashi station, Saboten is a reasonably large space that comfortably seats 50. Vibrant decorations and a beautiful, wood-andtile interior provide this restaurant with a modern aesthetic in line with its ethnic heritage. The open-air bar and kitchen allows the customer a full view of the restaurant s inner workings. The lunch menu has a limited set selection, which makes ordering easy and efficient. Their lunch special consists of juicy al pastor pork, a gooey quesadilla, chicharrónes, beans, potatoes, pickles and tortillas to wrap it all up in. The lunchtime halfprice happy hour is a welcome addition.

Dinnertime is when the possibilities take off. An expansive menu with a huge variety of dishes awaits any patron of Saboten. If you re looking for the hot new restaurant, this is the place to go!

Wherever I have lived, there has always been a local burrito shop that I visit as often as possible. In Osaka, that s El Zocalo. With a small interior that seats approximately 20, this restaurant is best for small parties or those looking for quality take-out burritos. At El Zocalo, they stick to their strengths. What they do, they do well. Their best filling, in my opinion, is the carnitas. The meat is nicely caramelized on the ends while keeping it tender. For vegetarians, they have a bean-and-cheese option that pairs well with their meat-free filling. Burritos come with a side of chips, and choosing the Set C option will get you guacamole and a drink. For big eaters, I would recommend ordering a side of nachos as well to crunch down on. To go with their food is a complementary selection of beer that any brew enthusiast will find suits their needs quite well, and of course, there is always the frozen margarita.

El Pancho is the most established of these restaurants. They have inhabited this location dishing up Mexican goodness for almost 30 years. Their history is literally written on the walls; praise and well wishes are scrawled there by satisfied customers to the point where almost every inch of wallspace is covered with writing. El Pancho is a highly desirable location for dinner on the weekends. If you go early enough in the night, around 6:00–6:30pm you may be seated, but do not expect to be seated during the high point of the night at 8pm or later – reserve to be safe. Their plates are substantial and well crafted – the enchiladas and chimigangas a highlight.

The fajitas are well-seasoned and filling.

As for drinks, the bar does not pull their punches, so be sure to order at least a pitcher of the margarita and enjoy!

OPEN: 12pm–12am; Lunch 12pm–3pm;

Happy Hour 12pm–6pm; Dinner 3pm–12am • CLOSED: Mon; open national holiday Mon then closed the following Tue • Price RANGE: Lunch ¥1,000–¥2,000; DINNER: ¥2,500–¥4,000 • ACCESS: Yotsubashi Subway Stn • Search “Saboten” on Facebook or Tabelog

OPEN: 11:30am–10pm • CLOSED: Mon • Price RANGE: ¥1,000 • ACCESS: Yotsubashi Subway Stn • Search “El Zocalo.Burrito” on Facebook or Tabelog

OPEN: 11:30am–11:30pm (L.O. 11:30pm) • Price RANGE: LUNCH: ¥1,000–¥3,000; DINNER: ¥2,000–¥4,000 • ACCESS: Shinsaibashi

Subway Stn, Exit 6 • Search “El Pancho” on Facebook or “Erupancho” on Tabelog

Need more dining options?

Check kansaiscene.com to search all of our Foodspotting reviews.

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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FEATURE

Adventures on Awaji Venture over to Awaji Island this summer where whirlpool cruises, traditional puppet shows, and delicious, mouthwatering burgers await.

Text: Celia Polkinghorne • Images: Jason Haidar

T

ucked away in southern Hyogo prefecture sits Awajishima, the birthplace of Japan, according to Japanese folklore.

To get there, you have to drive or take a bus across the Akashi Kaikyou Bridge, the longest of its kind in the world. The almost-2,000meter suspension bridge connecting Kobe on the Honshu mainland to Iwaya on Awaji Island is about as high-tech as Awaji gets. Once you re over the other side, you are in traditional countryside Japan. But with so many fun, unique, and interesting things to see and do, Awaji is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

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The Whirlpool Cruise Make your way to the Port of Fukura and jump on the three-deck, three-masted Kanrinmaru for a ride out into the Naruto Strait off the southern tip of Awaji Island. This sturdy, 50-meter-long and 10-meter-wide sailing ship will take you to the Naruto whirlpools beneath the Onaruto Bridge, which connects Tokushima to Awaji Island, providing safe passage over the moody, surging seas below.

In this narrow strait merging the PaciďŹ c Ocean with the Seto Inland Sea, powerful whirlpools

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Feature swell and churn created by the large volumes of water carried by strong currents moving between the two sections of ocean.

This natural phenomenon is influenced by high and low tides, and the unique underwater geography of the narrow strait.

Whirling around as though massive plugs have been yanked from the sandy seabed, water appears to be draining through to unknown depths beneath the sea. Clusters of camera-clad whirlpool watchers gather at the side of the Kanrinmaru deck vying for that coveted whirlpool money shot.

Fleeting on some days and tenacious on others, the whirlpools vary in size, depending on the time of year, time of month, and the intensity of the tides.

Spring and autumn are when they re at their most spectacular, advises 33-year-old crew member Jiro Kurume. They re also best around the time of a full moon – the whirlpools can reach up to 20 meters in diameter.

Still, the cruise itself is most pleasant in the warmer months, out of reach of the bitingly cold winds that are frequent in the other seasons. If you get seasick, or are not one for cruises, the second-best way to see the Naruto whirlpools is to make your way to Uzu no Michi, Onaruto bridge s whirlpool-viewing platform, where you ll look down through the glass windows at the spirals of seawater below.

Another bonus addition to your whirlpool experience is

the Ashiyu Uzunoyu hot spring – a free, 100-percent-natural, hot-spring foot bath, where the water actually swirls around like its own gentle, mini whirlpool.

You ll find it near the Kanrinmaru boarding area, in front of the Uzushio Dome Nanairo building; perfect for pre- or postcruise relaxation.

CRUISE INFO » Times: Daily departures from the Port of

Fukura between 9:30am and 4:10pm *Departure schedule is subject to tides, weather conditions, and availability. » Price: Adults (13 and over) ¥2,000, children (6–12) ¥1,000 » Access: Express bus (90 minutes) from JR Sannomiya Station to Fukura » Address: Uzushio Dome Nanairo Bldg, Fukurako, Minami-Awaji » Phone: 07-9952-0054 » info@uzu-shio.com » uzu-shio.com

The Awaji Burger In Japan, it s not unusual for a food item to gain cult status, which is precisely what has happened with the Awajishima Burger. Therefore, your visit to Awaji wouldn t be complete without jumping on the bandwagon to suss out the revered burger for yourself.

Awaji Island is well-known, among other things, for its onions and you can see them hanging up to dry almost anywhere you go on the island.

This explains the emphasis on the onion in the Awajishima burger. There are many incarnations of this burger across the island, but the most soughtafter comes from Awajishima Onion-Kitchen.

If vast ocean views and a delicious local culinary creation sounds like a satisfying lunch hour to you, head straight for the Awajishima Onion-Kitchen (Uzushio Roadside Station). Be ready to line up at this popular roadside spot, but know that the wait will be worth your while. The Awajishima Onion Beef Burger is the recommended choice, though there are others, and before long you ll be sinking your teeth into layers of crispy lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, shredded beef, and onion in various forms – onion chips, pickled onions, and an scrumptiously crispy, deep-fried onion cutlet credited for the burger s signature crunch. Top that off with homemade tomato-and-

The best burgers on Awaji?

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

27

Feature onion sauce, sandwiched between a plump bun, and you ve got yourself an award-winning burger.

This tasty creation won first prize at the national Tottori Burger Festa competition in 2013.

A large part of the appeal is the local ingredients, namely the beef and the onions – both grown on the island. The tomatoes in the sauce are also home grown. Also popular, is the Onion Gratin Burger, which came in second place in the same competition.

This burger is made with Awaji chicken and the gratin sauce contains milk from Awaji cows.

For curiosity s sake, look out for the Roadside Station Burger – there s only one on sale per day.

This burger is basically a 250g slab of Awaji-beef sirloin steak inside a bun. It is pricey, but if you get a chance to try it you ll see why! If it s still there on the day you arrive, and you have some spare change, don t miss your chance! If you re feeling adventurous, finish off with a serving of their onion-flavored icecream (yes, it does taste like onion, and it s not bad!).

AWAJISHIMA ONION KITCHEN » Main store: 947-22 Fukura, Awaji city » Tel: 07-9952-1157 » Uzu no Kuni store: 936-3 Fukura,

Awaji city » Tel: 07-9952-2888 » uzunokuni.com

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Puppet Show If it s the arts and Japanese culture you re chasing, Awaji Island s traditional puppetry of more than 500 years, Awaji ningyo joruri, offers a fascinating insight into one aspect of the local arts scene.

Two beats of a taiko drum and a twang from a shamisen is all it will take to get your undivided attention, ready for the drawing of the long, navy curtain that cloaks the 12-meter stage inside the iconic puppet theater known as Awaji Ningyoza.

Depending on the stories planned for each day, there are a handful of characters you are likely to meet; among them, the majestic, red-shirted Ebisu, god of the ocean.

Fascinating to watch, each of this four-foot doll s movements coincides with a drum beat, yet the puppet s motions are fluid and oddly humanlike. It is mesmerizing, and

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

takes a good few seconds to register the three black-hooded figures giving life to this handmade, wooden character.

This is probably the most interesting point of difference between puppetry in the rest of the world and traditional Japanese puppetry like Awaji s ningyo joruri (puppetry and chanting), which is similar to the well-known bunraku style. In most puppet theaters worldwide, puppeteers go to much effort to hide their manipulations from the audience, but in ningyo joruri, the manipulation is done in full view of those watching. But it is not at all distracting. In fact, the human movement behind the puppets seems to afford them an even more profound human quality.

The biggest challenge is expressing what s on a character s mind and how he is feeling in his heart when you are

Feature feeling differently, explains puppeteer Shinkuro Yoshida.

For instance, when you think something is funny and you want to laugh, but the character is supposed to be sad and crying.

Yoshida s craft really does require next-level concentration, as the audience learns in a mini workshop during intermission. Each doll requires the impeccable coordination of three puppeteers to bring it to life; a legs specialist, a left-hand specialist, and a head and right-hand specialist. Legs training takes seven years, followed by another seven on the left hand, and once you graduate to operating the head and right hand, you are finally a puppet master.

But you can never fully master ningyo joruri. No matter how good you are, there is always something you can improve, insists Tomosho Takemoto, another of Awaji Ningyoza s puppet masters.

The puppeteers really show off their skills once they arrive at the part of the story where Ebisu starts to get drunk after drinking too much sake. Being in the company of a drunk person can be quite humorous, but not nearly as amusing as watching a drunk puppet hiccup his way through a monolog. The chanter kneels next to the musician to the side of the stage, voicing all of his drunkenly wisdom in slow, slurred, and jolly tones from a book of beautifully scripted kanji. You ll be left

wondering how long it took for them to perfect the sloshed puppet routine.

Fittingly, Awaji puppetry is integrated into the island s school curriculum so that students – some future puppet masters in the making – can begin learning the craft from a young age. The 500-year tradition is being passed down through the generations to make sure there are always trained puppeteers around to pull all the right strings.

AWAJI NINGYOZA Located in the Fukura harbor area. » Access: Express bus (90 minutes)

from JR Sannomiya Station to Fukura » Closed: Wednesdays, year-end period (Dec 17–31) » Show Times: 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm » Duration: About 45 minutes » Price: Adults ¥1,500, student concessions, kids (3+) ¥300 » Museum Open: 9am–5pm » Phone: 07-9952-0260 » awajiningyoza.com/ningyoza

Yumebutai Gardens

FAMILY FUN ENGLAND HILL England Hill is a nature-oriented theme park located in the center of the island, equipped with gardens, a koala corner (housing six very lazy koalas), a monkey hut, an African bird house, and a rabbit warren. It s the perfect place to entertain the kids while getting the chance to tuck into an Awaji burger. england-hill.com

YUMEBUTAI GARDENS Nature and concrete complement each other at Japanese architect Tadao Ando s Yumebutai Gardens. The Awaji Yumebutai, or Dream Stage as it directly translates, is a beautiful space to roam around in and offers stunning ocean views. yumebutai.org/english/yumebutai/yumebutai. html

MATSUHO HOT SPRING Picture an outdoor natural hot spring with an amazing view overlooking the Akashi Strait and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, set against a big, blue, cloud-specked sky. That is Awaji s Matsuho-no-yu onsen experience. matsuho.com

GETTING AROUND • Renting a car is recommended for getting around Awaji, but if you re not pressed for time it is possible to get around the island by bus.

• For information about cycling around Awaji Island, contact or drop into Giro d Awaji coffee shop near the Fukura harbor area. » giro-di-awaji.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Classifieds COMMERCIAL 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]

Shared House LOOKING FOR ONE HOUSEMATE TO JOIN US IN KYOTO. An 80 year old traditional Japanese house, presently being remodeled & transformed into a spectacular look w/ multiple features. Only looking for one person. House for 3 people only Moving can start as of 1st of July Private room (6 tatami-sized) Rent: 55,000 yen / m Utility divided by a Contact: fabulous4rs <fabulous4rs@gmail.com> Website: fourdots-architects. com/fourdotsarc_wp/2016/06/12/ looking-for-one-housemate-to-joinus-in-kyoto/ [3582-6327-2016-07-12]

Jobs Education PART-TIME NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER. English Spot Language School is in immediate need of a Native English Instructor to teach kids and adult Saturday classes at its Tamatsukuri School, next to JR Tamatsukuri Station. Experience required. 2,500JPY/class hr. Transportation covered up to 800JPY round trip. Cover Letter and CV to info@es-osaka. Contact: matt kelley <info@es-osaka.com> Website: www.es-osaka.com [3593-

/ JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP Settsu-Motoyama, Kobe seeks long term teacher who can give fun English classes to kids.

Must be cheerful, responsible, & energetic. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays : 3:30-7:00 Thursdays : 2:30-7:00pm 2,000yen/hr + transportation. University degree, experience teaching kids + proper visa r Contact: LANGUAGE CLUB HANAKotoba <lchanakotoba@ gmail.com> [3547-1062-2016-06-25] STUDENTS CENTERED SCHOOL NEED PT ENGLISH TEACHER. Excellent PT English teacher with basic Japanese needed for a senior group from mid.August. Thurs.

Yodoyabashi 17:50-19:00 Rate: ¥4000/ 70mins + transport. More than 5 years teaching experience preferable. Must have Skype account & proper working visa.

Send CV to hello@gentimeless. com (Global English Netwo Contact: Kazuko Hill Ito <hello@ gentimeless.com> Website: globalenglishnetwork.seesaa.net/ [3599-213-2016-07-20]

PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER FOR KIDS. An experienced English teacher is urgently needed for Saturday kids lesson in a private language school, Nada-ku, Kobe.

All the kids here like English lesson with a native teacher.

2500-2800yen/hour. Work visa is must. University students frm English speaking countries are also welcome. Pls email us ASAP! Contact: hellobuongiorno2016 <hellobuongiorno2016@gmail. com> [3602-6347-2016-07-21]

5976-2016-07-16]

LOOKING FOR PEOPLE TO OPEN AN ENGLISH SCHOOL. We have over ten years of expertise in operating multiple English school locations and we are looking to help individuals in Japan to start their own school using our expertise.

The school name and location are up to the individual. Contact us anytime for more information at nikokennedy@esl2.com. Contact: niko kennedy <nikokennedy@ esl2.com> Website: start-a-school. com [3578-6331-2016-07-10]

PART TIME TEACHER IN SE OSAKA. Branch in Habikino is looking for part time to semi-full time native teachers, starting in August. We teach a mix of kids and adults in small, fun classes.

There are classes from Monday to Saturday, 11-9 and are looking for experienced teachers who can do any or all days. Visa renewal if needed. Contact: alex serey <alex. serey@michaelsenglischool.jp> Website: www.michaelsenglishschool.jp/ [3592-6337-2016-07-16]

P/T ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED IN IBARAKISHI AND SUITA. RES, a Casual English School, is looking for P/T teacher. Adults and kids group ,private classes lesson plans and materials are provided. Also need person who is interested in Cafe lessons on Wednesdays and Saturdays. 吹田校の日本人スタッフ、 英語講師募集中！ 週1∼2回、初心者ok! 子供好きな方大歓迎！ Please contact us royalenglish725@gmail.com Contact: Royal English School <royalenglish725@gmail.com>

PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER NEEDED FROM JULY. School in

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[3586-1446-2016-07-14]

PT ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED. Small yet friendly and growing school in Settsu looking for PT native English teachers for kids and adults. Mon - Fri afternoon – evening. Experience preferred but not required. Please send your CV and photo via email to abies_kids@ yahoo.co.jp Contact: abies English Room <abies_kids@yahoo.co.jp> [3555-5832-2016-06-29]

TEACHERS WANTED. Ashiya/ Okamoto school is looking for PT English, French, Korean teachers.

University diploma preferable.

Must be native speaker with valid visa. \2700-\3000 per hour + transportation. Free Japanese lesson available. Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp Contact: Ashiya Plus <ashiyaplus@hotmail.co.jp> [3606-2522016-07-22]

ALTS FOR OSAKA PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS ARE NEEDED. 3 days a week, Tuesday • Thursday • Friday or Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday. 9:30-16:15 or 8:3515:20 (break 12:30-13:15), 6 hours working time, Payment: 1,600 yen/hour x 6 hours/day with transportation assisted, Contract : ~24th February 2017, Apply to intersquare0511@gmail.com, 09038656438 Fukushima Contact: intersquare <intersquare0511@ gmail.com> Website: www.intersquare.co.jp [3566-6319-2016-07-03] LOOKING FOR SEARCH ENGINE EVALUATORS !!. Leapforce is looking for highly educated individuals for an exciting work from home opportunity. Applicants must be self motivated and internet savvy. This is an opportunity to evaluate and improve the results for one of the world's largest internet search engine companies. email us at: milette@ leapforc Contact: Leapforce1 <milette@leapforce.com> Website: www.leapforceathome.com/qrp/ public/job/33?sref=e2ef52d4efa58 767d49f850d6be9f5cd [3567-60072016-07-03]

FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME BUSINESS ENGLISH TRAINER. Hello, We're looking for experienced business English trainer with proper Visa in Osaka. Having business & pharmaceutical industry experience is preferred. All work are at company sites. We're mainly looking for full-time. Please let us reply to those who sent a resume and availability. Contact: Haruka Noda <createltd@nifty. com> Website: createltd.com [3570-248-2016-07-03]

FT & PT NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHERS WANTED FOR KIDS. Kids

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Duo is located in Sumiyoshi in Kobe. We have preschool and after school for children age from 3-12. FT: 250,000yen/mon(+trnsp) PT: 1,500yen/hr (+trnsp) Mon-Fri (Working hours are flexible.)

There is a 1month trial period.

Please e-mail your CV and a photo at kdhigashinada@yahoo.co.jp Contact: Kids Duo <kdhigashinada@yahoo.co.jp> Website: navi. kidsduo.com/tabid/61/pdid/4017/ Default.aspx [3575-4126-2016-07-10]

General CES IS SEEKING ENGLISH/OTHER LANGUAGES CORPORATE. CES is seeking English/Other languages corporate instructors/interpreters in Hyogo, Shiga, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama and Wakayama for 3-12mth regular courses and 3-5 Day Intensives (Spring) starting immediately. Please email CV and Availability - mark@cesjapan. co.jp Contact: Manager <mark@ cesjapan.co.jp> [3302-77-201607-19]

EMPLOYMENT. Door to door flyer staff needed in Nishinomiya. 5000 per 3 hour shift. Must be reliable.

Contact Mat mgboyd@hotmail. com Contact: Mathew Boyd <mgboyd@hotmail.com> [35816333-2016-07-12]

PART-TIME BILINGUAL OFFICE STAFF - FASHION. We are looking for someone to work as an operations manager for a successful vintage fashion business in Takarazuka city. Duties will be overseeing all office operations.

This includes but is not limited to managing staff, dealing with clients, and responding to emails.

Contact: Tom:080-3505-2448 Contact: ninafurfur <sales@ninafurfur.com> Website: ninafurfur. com [3571-6322-2016-07-06]

Entertainment ENTERTAINERS WANTED. Entertainment agency is looking for actors that can speak English with a British accent and also for any other actors, singers or performers. Please contact Lawrence at 080-4242-6335 or send your resume at omnibus-osaka@ moon.odn.ne.jp. Contact: lauconst <lauconst@aol.com> [3540-63012016-06-24]

LOOKING FOR GIRL VOCAL PERFORMING AT BARS & CLUBS. Osaka/Kobe popular entertaining band is looking for female lead vocals. If you could dance & sing(in English), join us ! Lots of fun & paid gigs guaranteed.

Covered artists: Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, Lady GaGa, Beyonce,

Classifieds Rihanna and many more soul/R&B/pop artists. Drop us an email for audition. Contact: Soulkiss Ng <soulkiss07@hotmail. co.jp> Website: www.facebook. com/soulkissbandjapan/ [3561-2272016-07-01]

Classes & Events Classes STAND UP PADDLING (SUP) LESSON AND TOUR. SUP is easy and BIG FUN! We based on Hyougo Canal. 10min form central Kobe by subway. Beginner class and mini tour at there. Start from 3500yen p.p.(60min) Tour option is available. One of the best sites is Awaji Island. More info, check our web. http://paddle55.net Or, feel free to e-mail us! Contact: paddle55 <info@paddle55.net> Website: paddle55.net [3543-63022016-09-29]

BROADWAY MUSICAL THEATER WORKSHOP AUGUST 22-27!. Stage Academy presents from New York City: Singing, Acting, Dancing, Stage Combat workshop with 3 teachers from Broadway! Includes a Performance in Osaka and More!

Sign-up by July 1st. 3人の新しいニ ューヨークブロードウェイ•インストラク ター！授業料は以下を含みます：4泊5日 の宿泊料•朝食と昼食•ダンス•歌•演 技•ステージコンバット•ステージでの 披露•限定Tシャツ。7月1日までに申し 込みを！ Contact: Stage Academy <stageacademy.osaka@gmail. com> Website: www.stagejapan. com [3608-5251-2016-07-23] 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 06-6572-6877 https://sites.google. com/site/osakasoroban/

Events SUMMERT LOVE 7 BEACH PARTY ON THE TANGO HANTO. Summer Love Beach Party on the 9th / 10th July from 15:00 . 2 day event with Live Acts, DJ`s, Dance and art performances on a very scenic beach in Kyoto prefecture. Only 300 tickets available @ 3,000 yen so book early.! Overnight camping. Also inclusive Party Bus Tours from Osaka.For info tel Mat 09037061091 Contact: mathewcooper <jollyjapan@hotmail. com> [3579-1780-2016-07-24]

32

/ JOBS • ACCOMMODATION • FRIENDSHIP Health & Beauty SHIATSU, ACUPUNCTURE, MOXI. and JiKyoJutsu in KOBE. Kanda has been practicing since 1999 at Shioya in Kobe. Also provides lessons of JiKyoJutsu, a traditional self maintenance method. Practices and provides thoughtfully and flexibly for each individual case. Please contact with 0909692-8758, contact@kandamedicine.com www.kandamedicine. com ENGLISH SPOKEN. Contact: KANDA Medicine <contact@ kandamedicine.com> Website: www.kandamedicine.com [35941816-2016-07-17]

COMMUNITY Language Exch.

SPANISH/ JAPANESE/ENGLISH. Hello i can teach Spanish if intertested please contact me Contact: alexander <tequilasalud@gmail. com> [3320-2381-2016-07-06] I'M LOOKING FOR A LANGUAGE EXCHANGE PARTNER.. Hello everyone. I'm a 47 years old Japanese female who are looking for a language exchange partner. I want to improve my pronunciation, so..if you are the native English speaker, please contact me. I don't need romance and a expensive teacher. I want to enjoy talking about something. Contact: SueSue <Sue_s848@yahoo.com> [3487-5911-2016-06-24]

Comm. Services 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> [2441-2177-2016-06-29] FREE HYPNOSIS TALK AND DEMONSTRATION. Yes, it's real!

FREE HYPNOSIS CLASS with demonstration for any audience of 50-500 English-speaking people. Experience the power and mystery of hypnosis as presented

by Master Hypnotist Professor Jay Tee. Available Japan-wide.

Based in Kobe, Japan. Find out more at http://superunconscious. com Contact: Professor Jay Tee <superunconscious@gmail.com> Website: superunconscious.com

Friendship LOOKING FOR SMART COOL INT`L F TO HANGOUT. Nice sweet funny Jpn-rooted scientist M seeks smart international F to hang around, possibly relationship, soalmate.

Loyal & sincere. Long-term faith, commitment. Intelligence, social, love in nature, zoo, med to get along smoothly. Good mind& heart. I won`t cheat, or abuse you.

Not for mone Contact: nobel benzene <speak6up@yahoo.co.jp> [3231-104-2016-06-24]

PASSIONATE MUSICIANS WANTED. Two musicians (guitarist/keyboard and drummer/bassist) seek others, of any ability, to join them in rehearsal studio practice sessions in the Osaka area. Any type of instrument or musical style welcome. Passion, enthusiasm and willingness to motivate each other more important than ability. Contact: red osaka <redosaka@hotmail.com> [3600-6276-2016-07-20]

MWM. Seeking a female for some fun. Hi everyone Let's just be honest! I'm looking for someone I can have fun with no strings attached, no problems, no drama.

It could be a one time deal but prefer something on going. Need some spice in my life now and someone who's opened minded.

If you are feeling the same drop Contact: Sammy.57 <Sammy.57@ yahoo.com> [3604-6349-2016-07-22] I'LL BE IN OSAKA IN APRIL AND I'M LOOKING FOR LOVE. Hi, I am an italian man 42 yearso old. I'll be in Osaka again next April and I'd like to know someone to go out together and maybe to start a serious relationship. I'm not interested to have only fun or in girls looking for short relationships. I'll wait for you. Contact: Flavio73 <spezzacatena@email.it> Website: www.japanitaly.it [33682063-2016-07-14]

HANDSOME AND COOL SJM. Handsome and cool SJM seeks well-educated, interesting, attractive, nonsmoking SWF to share wonderful times and make a good

[3523-2045-2016-07-13]

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

friendship. So let's meet for coffee or lunch to know each other better. If no experience, please just try me. E-mail: healsan@yahoo. com Contact: Healsan <healsan@ yahoo.com> [2680-5448-2016-07-16] M SEEKS M. Hallo, I want to find a nice friend . My hobbies are reading , writing, hiking and travelling . Write: redwood2016@yandex.com Contact: redwood2016 <redwood2016@yandex.com> [3091-5985-2016-07-26]

HUMOROUS TEACHER SEEKS F. Hallo, a relatively young college- teacher is looking for a nice girl- friend. I like painting , writing, travelling, cooking and singing. welle321@yahoo. de Contact: Harry Schulze <Harryschulze885@hotmail.com> [3089-1998-2016-06-26]

LOOKING FOR FRIENDS. Hi to everybody! I'm a 43 years old italian man who is now in Osaka and would like to meet some friends here. Please contact me if you are interested to become my friend.

Flavio Contact: Flavio73 <spezzacatena@email.it> Website: www. japanitaly.it [3489-2063-2016-06-25] CHARMING & CUTE M SEARCHES LADY. Hi, rock- music loving lady, I' m a cheerful fun- loving singer and want a permanent relationship with a tolerant woman. I' m cute, not fat , have no beard and my hair is curly and blonde. I' m working at University and love Japan ! My hobbies are Karaoke & singing with bands: s Contact: shutommy@yandex.com <shutommy@yandex.com> [32566096-2016-07-21]

EDUCATED SMART WOMAN WANTED FOR MATURE DISCRETE RE. Nice Smart funny sweet considerate Asian SM seeks a lady to enjoy life for longterm relationship. Health support, survival tips assured. If she is smart enough to appreciate nature, society, practice frugality, the better fit for both. Won`t cheat U, Based on mutual trust, faith, warmhe@ rt.respect, Contact: nobel benzene <speak6up@yahoo.co.jp> [3513-104-2016-07-07]

Looking for something else?

Check Kansaiscene.com for the latest ads, or to place your own...

Getting Around

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

INTRODUCTION

The Kansai area covers the prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Mie, and Shiga.

There is so much to explore, so you ll need to prioritize your time wisely. Its main travel hubs are Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, all of which are well connected by high-speed rail networks, including the shinkansen (bullet train).

On regular trains, you can travel between Osaka and Kyoto in about 45 mins, and between Kobe and Osaka in about 30 mins. If you are here on holiday, pick up a convenient travel pass, such as the Kansai Thu Pass (surutto.com) or new Kansai One Pass (kansaionepass.com – available from April 8), to avoid having to negotiate the ticket machines. Use a website such as HyperDia (hyperdia. com) to check train times and platforms from your smartphone.

Get Kansai Scene Kansai Scene is available from the following major outlets in the Kansai region:

OSAKA Hotels and Guesthouses

Kyoto

Hyogo

Shiga

Hyatt Regency, Nikko Hotel, St. Regis, Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, Ritz Carlton, Hilton Osaka, Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka, InterContinental Hotel Osaka Tourist Information Centers

Osaka

Nara

Mie

Wakayama

Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Osaka), Hankyu Tourist Center Umeda, Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Namba), Kansai Tourist Information Center (KIX), Kansai Tourist Information Center (Shinsaibashi), Nankai Information Center (Namba) Shops

Trains and Subways

Airport Transfers

There is an excellent rail network connecting all corners of Kansai. As well as JR (Japan Rail), there are numerous private railway companies servicing the area, including Keihan (Osaka/Kyoto), Hankyu (Osaka/Kyoto), Nankai (Osaka, Wakayama, Koya), Hanshin (Osaka/Kobe), and Kintetsu (Osaka/Nara/Mie/Nagoya). Each line operates several types of train. For the fastest trains, look for the Limited Express service trains. Be aware that Local trains stop at every station on the line, so only take them if no other type of train stops at your station. Subways operate in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto and are an extremely efficient way to get around the cities.

To/from downtown Osaka, the most convenient option is the Nankai Rapi:t Express service (KIX <> Namba 42mins) or a Limousine Bus. To/from Kyoto, take the JR Airport Express HARUKA service (75 mins).

» Tip: Pick up a Railway Network

map from a major station or Tourist Information Center.

Buses For out-of-the-way locations, or in certain cities such as Kyoto, you may need to take a bus. A travel pass usually includes travel on municipal bus services.

Taxis Fares start from ¥500. The drivers wearing white gloves and official hats tend to be the most courteous, but don t expect English to be widely understood. Have your destination name and address on hand in Japanese.

34

Kinokuniya Bookstore Umeda, Kinokuniya Honmachi, Tower Records Umeda, Junkudo Namba, Hard Rock Cafe

KYOTO Hotels and Guesthouses

ATMs and Credit Cards If you re using Visa, you will be able to withdraw cash at most bank or convenience-store ATMs. If you re using Mastercard, your best bet for withdrawing money is at 7-Eleven ATMs. Most other ATMs in Kansai do not accept Mastercard. It is not common to make in-store payments using credit or visa-debit cards in Japan, even for expensive purchases. Many shops and restaurants do not offer this service, so be sure to carry plenty of cash with you.

Wi-Fi Getting connected in Kansai can be tricky.

Renting a smartphone or SIM card at the airport is the safest option, to connect to the internet over a 3G network. In Osaka, you can access the Osaka Free Wi-Fi service at train and subway stations, stores and facilities throughout the prefecture.

Accidents and Emergencies » Ambulance/Fire service: Tel: 119 » Police: Tel: 110

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

Royal Hotel, Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto, Kyoto Nikko Hotel Tourist Information Centers

Kyoto Tourist Information Center, Kansai Tourist Information Center Kyoto, Kyoto International Community House Shops

Junkudo Kyoto, Maruzen & Junkudo Kyoto Main Store, GEAR

KOBE Hotels and Guesthouses

Kobe Bay Sheraton, Kobe Portopia Hotel Tourist Information Centers

Kobe International Community Center, Hyogo International Plaza Shops

Junkudo Nishinomiya, Junkudo Sannomiya, Kinokuniya Kobe

MAPS & INFORMATION / A Post Office

InterContinental Osaka Hotel

Cine Libre Umeda Sky Umeda Building German Consulate Westin 35F Hotel

1

Maruzen & C Junkudo

Theater Umeda

B

Grand Front Osaka / Knowledge Capital Yodobashi Camera

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Honmachi

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OSTEC Exibition Hall

Utsubo Tennis Center

Elmers Green Cafe

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Boston Clam Shack

YMCA

Sumitomo Hosp.

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Kitahama

Grand Cube Osaka

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Mitsui Sumitomo Bank

Rihga Royal Hotel

5

Museum of Oriental Ceramics

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APA Hotel

Osaka City Public Hall

Tosabori River

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National Museum of Art Science Museum

City Hall Library

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Bank of Japan

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Osaka MINAMI

B

Shinmachi Life

MoeJoe

Hearton Hotel bi-grace nail

Big Beans Supermarket

Kansai Scene Mojoprint Office

Mizuho Bank Nagahori dori

Nishiohashi

7-ELEVEN

Hotel Via Inn

Cafe Absinthe

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2

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South

Apple Store

Joule Sun Hall Ghost Ultralounge

Yamaya

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The Silver Ball Planet

Coolabah APA Hotel

River

OPA

Triangle Park

Naniw

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MinamiHorie

Triangle

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Nest Hotel

GAP

Uniqlo

Daimaru Dept.

North

Nikko Hotel

EXODUS

Covent Garden

Tokyu Hands

1

Hearton Hotel

Nagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Ali’s Kitchen El Pancho 8F

Balabushka 4F

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

Kitahorie Hospital

Minami-semba

Arthur Murray

Midosuji line

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D

Louis Vuitton

Toyoko Inn

KitaHorie

2

3

Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

Shinsaibashi

Hiday's Texas BBQ

D & Dept.

Namba Shrine

Yotsubashi

1

C

Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Cross Hotel

Kansai Tourist Information Center Don Quijote

Comfort Hotel The Blarney Stone Suomachi-dori B1 (Europe street)

Minami Police Station

HigashiShinsaibashi

Bar Jaai

Vanity

Sakaisuji line

Shinmachi Kita Park

Shinsaibashi-suji (shopping arcade)

A

/ MAPS & INFORMATION

Fujiya Hotel

Zerro

3

Soemon-Cho

Burlesque B1 Pure Osaka Don Quijote B1

Kaneyoshi Ryokan

Mexico Osaka Shochikuza

Dotonbori Hotel

Kokopelli

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Casa Lapichu

AEON MaxValu

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Namba

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Toho Cinemas Namba annex

Toho Cinemas Namba

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Hotel Ichiei

Nipponbashi sta.

Sennichimae line

Little Long Beach

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Namba Sta.

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Namba Washington Hotel

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Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

Dotonbori

Hozenji Temple Osaka Floral Inn

Takashimaya Dept. Store

Maruzen

Fraser Residence

Namba Oriental Hotel

Misono Building Singh’s Kitchen Namba Plaza Hotel

MUJI/LOFT Tower Records

NipponBashi

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

5

Nankai Namba Station

McDonalds Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium

Naniwa Park

Namba -naka

6

Namba PARKS

Pub Bar 30 2F

NAMBA PARKS CINEMA

Naniwa Sports Center Naniwa Post Office

Animate Nihonbashi Shop

Toys”R”Us Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba

Jack & Queen

A

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Kuromon Market

Sakaisuji

Namba Hatch

B

Naniwa Ward Office

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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Kyoto

MAPS & INFORMATION / A

B

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D

Club Metro

1

1 Heian Shrine

Kiya Cho

Aeon Shopping Mall

The Ritz Carlton

Irish Pub Gnome

Nijo-dori

Higashi Oji - dori

Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto

Tozai Subway Line Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

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Kyoto Asahi Kaikan

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Kyoto Bal

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Hankyu Line

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Teramachi Shotengai Shinkyogoku Shotengai

Kawara Machi

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Higashiyama

Wakamatsu-dori

Butterfly Kitsune Hotel Vista Kyoto Premio Kyoto Maruzen Junkudo

Jomo Gas

Tourist Information Center

Takashimaya

Hanamikoji-dori

Gear

4

Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa

Pontocho

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Oike-dori

Kiyamachi-dori

Fuyacho-dori

Gokomachi-dori

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National Museum of Modern Art

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Hotel Okura

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art 2

Miyako Messe

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Kyoto City Hall

Okazaki Park

Tsutaya Books

Tatsumi Bridge

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Yasaka Jinja

Maruyama Park

Apa Hotel

Minami-za Theatre

4

Genkoin

Gion Kaikan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art

The Gael Irish Pub

Ryoshoin

Kacho-michi

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Kaosan Kyoto

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Kyoto Municipal Museum of School History

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Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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/ MAPS & INFORMATION A

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Kitano Museum

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Kobe YWCA

Kitanoseiryu Shrine

Hotel Piena Kobe

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Kitano-cho

Tor

Migration Museum ri -do oto am m Ya

Kitanosaka Hosp.

1

1F Bistrot Cafe De Paris

Sa

Kobe

und

Isogami Park

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Hyogo-ken Prefectural Hall

Palmore Hosp.

a m an ak u

Kobe Legal Partners

Higashiyuenchi Park

4

Kobe Luminarie

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Municipal Museum

ne

n li aiga

7F

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Kiyo-machi

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Cine Libre Kobe Kobe Doll Museum Mitsui Daimaru Sumitomo Dept.

Bank

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way

Sub

Kobe City Hall

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Raja Indian Restaurant

Minato Bank

ad

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Hanakuma Park

Kobe Plaza Hotel

we

4

ta. hi s ac m to hi Mo ac JR tom Mo

Flo

Kobe Ikuta Junior High School

KRAC

5

KIITO

Cafe Fish!

Shinko-Cho

Hotel Okura Kobe Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland

Kobe Maritime Museum Jumbo Ferry Terminal

Meriken park 6

6

Arthur Murray CULMENI Kobe 3F Harborland umie umie MOSAIC OS Cinema Harborland A

38

5

N Kobe Cruise Luminous Kobe 2

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental B

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #194 JULY 2016 / kansaiscene.com

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