WAttention Tokyo vol 12

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In Ha r mony w it h t he Sea sons Kashou Day from the Kashou Era: June 16 in old lunar calendar (between June and August)

こ

text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Hajime Watanabe 文とスタイリング＝井戸理恵子、 写真＝渡辺肇

よ

The blessings may have been believed to be greater with sweets that depicted the beauty of nature. These customs were introduced to the Imperial Court after the Muromachi period.

み

嘉祥の日

を

旧暦６月 日（６月下旬〜８月上旬）

16

楽 し む

Prior to the Meiji period, a custom had been observed in Japan to eat sweets on the day marking Kashou. Legend has it that the custom originated with the backdrop of an epidemic that had been going around in 848 during the Heian era. Emperor Ninmyo had renamed the period Kashou and performed a ritual with an offering of 16 pieces of beautiful sweets as he prayed for the good health of his people on the 16th day of June.

While there seem to be various views on where this number 16 came

from, the 16th of June in the old lunar calendar seems to fall under a full moon, or the sixteenth day of a lunar month during the peak heat of summer.

Perhaps the people at the time offered prayer on the night that was brightly lit by the moon when the world was believed to be linked with the other universe, offering delectable sweets to try to ward off evil that would come from the sixteen directions of the worlds. Confectionaries had been believed to soothe the violent souls of

beings from the other world.

These types of festivals were conducted in all parts of Japan during those ancient periods when the curses of vengeful spirits had been believed to cause an illness or a disaster.

Rieko Ido A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on findings to apply them to modern lifestyles.Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

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※日本文化の魅力を世界に発信する「WAttention Tokyo」 事業は東京都中小企業振興公社の推奨事業です。

Why WAttention ?

WAttention is so named with the hope that people in the world would pay more Attention to WA （和）; an important term in Japanese culture meaning harmony with nature, peace and even Japanese culture itself!

VOL.12

世界中の人々に「和」 （WA）に注目（Attention） してほしいという 願いを込めてWA+Attention= WAttentionと名づけました。

F E AT U R E

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki / WATTENTION CO., LTD.

SHIBUYA Time Never Stops in Shibuya 03

Letter from the Editor

05

Tokyo Hot News

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Editorial Staff Charles Chen, Kotoe Kurihara Editorial & Design Art Director Yasuhisa Tamura Photographer Keiji Okazaki, Kenji Sugasawa, Yosuke Torii, Hajime Watanabe Photos courtesy of JNTO, TCVB, COCOLULU, THE SHOTO MESUEM OF ART, OOTOYA

In Harmony with the Seasons

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Associate Editor Naoko “Umagoe” Ijuuin

Feature 1

Time Never Stops in Shibuya

Chic Shopping in Shibuya Explore Japanese Craft Art and Souvenir in Shibuya Shibuya s Latest Landmark: Shibuya Hikarie Witness the Scramble Crossing Feature 2

Partners Global Daily Co., Ltd. Sales & Marketing Akihiro Hara, Kazuki Okubo Special thanks TOKYU CORPORATION, Shibuya City Tourism Association Inc. Foundation, Rieko Ido (adviser), Kanna Himiya, Litian Ng, Nancy Liu, Amber Liu, C.C. Wagashi, Celene Sakurako Miyabe, Hana Omori, COCOLULU

Welcome to the Culturally Rich World of Japanese Cuisine

Japanese Food, Seasonal Festivals, and Samurai Spirits A Collection of Japanese Set Meal Restaurants OOTOYA – caters the best Teishoku that tastes like home 22

Houseki Hiroba

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Japanese Craftsmanship: The Pursuit of Perfection

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Noritake - Japan s Fine Tableware Vol.5

27

Discovery of Design Gifts

28

A Short Trip from Tokyo

30

Quality Long-term Stay at Sakura House

31

Tokyo s trendy hotspot – Robot Restaurant

広告・記事に関するお問い合わせは 和テンション株式会社 〒107-0062 東京都港区南青山5-18-10-202 Phone : 03-6418-5701 / Fax : 03-6418-5704 E-mail : info-tokyo@wattention.com シンガポール事務所 Minook International (S) Pte Ltd 2B Craig Road singapore 089662 Phone : 65-6324-2127 ロサンゼルス事務所 Team J station, Inc. 2383 Lomita Blvd., Suite 114 Lomita, CA.90717 Phone : 1-310-782-8279

Summer 2014

Letter from the Editor Anyone who has visited Tokyo has surely been to Shibuya. Indisputably one of the most popular spots to visit in Tokyo, the symbol of Shibuya is none other than the statue of the illustrious loyal dog, Hachiko. Loved from pre-war times, Hachiko has continued to watch over station as it has evolved within times of rapid economic growth. In this issue, we bring you the latest trends and hot spots of the capital of youth culture and fashion, Shibuya. Explore Shibuya with us through the eyes of Hachiko!

Publisher Yasuko Suzuki

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TOKYO HOT

EWS

Bringing you the hottest trends in Tokyo.

See all of Tokyo in a ride with Tokyo Sightseeing Taxi All of the drivers of Tokyo Sightseeing Taxi are trained and certified, through the Tokyo Sightseeing Taxi Driver Certification System, with exemplary hospitality and tourist guide skills.

Sightseeing packages begin from a 3-hour taxi ride which costs 14,950 yen (plus 2,420 yen for every added 30 minutes). Sightsee Tokyo in your own space with your private tourist guide driving you to all the trendiest places.

FUJIYA’s New Concept Shop Opened in February 2014, OTOWA FUJIYA is a new concept shop of FUJIYA, a famous confectionary maker known for its Peko-chan character.

Step in the simple yet elegantly designed shop and you will be amazed by the wide selection of premium desserts such as strawberry sponge cake and cream puff. It is definitely a wonderland for girls to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Tokyo Sightseeing Taxi http://www.taxi-tokyo.or.jp/ english/kanko_taxi/index.html

OTOWA FUJIYA http://www.fujiya-peko.co.jp/cake/ otowa-fujiya/

Tavern run by Ultraman monsters Welcome to the tavern run by Ultraman monsters. Opened in March 2014, Tavern Kaiju Sakaba is a collaboration of Benelic Co. Ltd and Tsuburaya Productions, the founder of the Hero series Ultraman. The tavern features special menus and performances that will tickle Ultraman fans back to their childhood. Located in Kawasaki, it is open for a limited period of one year.

Tavern Kaiju Sakaba http://www.kaiju-sakaba.com/

All sorts of colorful umbrellas found in one store Newly opened in Jiyugaoka, Cool Magic SHU’s holds one of the world`s largest collection of umbrellas in the three-story store. Each umbrella is categorized into a section such as age, sex and functionality, making your search as easy as possible. After browsing and selecting your umbrella, you can take it to the store`s Experience Corner and try it out.

Cool Magic SHU’S http://www.water-front.co.jp/

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©TSUBURAYA PRODUCTIONS

Note: Monsters won’t show up when human beings are around.

Please listen to my story about Shibuya Greetings!

My name is Hachiko. Born in 1923 in Odate City of Akita Prefecture, I am likely to be older than most people who are reading this. I was adopted by Professor Hidesaburou Ueno when I was 50 days old, and I remain one of the rare purebred Akitas today.

Back then, Professor Ueno’s house was near the now-defunct Oomukai government primary school that stood behind the main building of what is currently the TOKYU Department Store. As the pioneer of Japan’s modern agricultural engineering, Professor Ueno taught as an agricultural scientist at Tokyo University and conducted research at the Ministry of Agriculture 06 WAttention Tokyo

and Commerce.

Every day, I would meet Professor Ueno at the Shibuya station from which he commuted to work daily. However, Professor Ueno died suddenly at the young age of 54 on May 21, 1925. While I was taken to Asakusa, 8 kilometers away from Shibuya, I traveled daily to Shibuya station because I wanted to wait for Professor Ueno. Never could I believe that the professor had passed away. After that incident, I came under the care of gardener Kikugorou Kobayashi, who was living in Tomigaya, Shibuya. Mr. Kobayashi had been in charge of tidying Professor Ueno’s garden.

Later, my story was featured in Asahi Newspaper and subsequently,

a bronze statue of me was erected in Shibuya in 1934. More than 300 people have come together to clean me so far. Unlike the “youth Mecca” of today, Shibuya used to be much more laid-back.

When I passed away at the age of 13 in 1935, I finally met Professor Ueno in heaven. Nonetheless, you can still view my preserved figure at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno.

Although my statue was melted to stem the shortage of bronze as a result of World War II, I was delighted to learn that many people wanted my statue to be restored. Takeshi Ando, the son of the artist who originally produced my statue, made a second similar statue that

Time Never Stops in Shibuya Shibuya is not only about fashion or scramble crossing. As "Hachiko"- the symbol of meeting place-stands guard over its busy streets, Shibuya's history and charm continues to flow.

was erected once again in Shibuya in 1948.

Even Helen Keller came to visit me and caress my toes gently.

When the Tokyo Olympics were held in 1964, Shibuya was elevated to a street that is calm and sophisticated with high-end residential buildings. With the establishment of the TOKYU HANDS and Parco buildings, Shibuya became an area where youths congregated. From “ganguro”culture to high socks, Shibuya has spawned many unique fashion trends and trendy spots, including the iconic SHIBUYA109, a fashion hub for young teenagers.

Initially, I was located right at the

center of the area in front of Shibuya station. However, with the expansion of the station in 1989, I was shifted to east of the Hachiko exit. Connected to the famous Shibuya Scramble crossing, the spot is also widely known as “The Meeting Place” for many Japanese.

However, Shibuya continues to evolve as I stand here overlooking its everyday streets. In 2012, a new multi-purpose commercial complex called Shibuya Hikarie was established. Nonetheless, it will still be some time before the entire Shibuya unveils a brand new look in 2027, as

Shibuya station and its surroundings are currently under redevelopment. This may cause a little inconvenience, but an all-new 180-square-meter facility, Shibuya Chikamichi Lounge, has opened near the basement of SHIBUYA109.

Please feel free to consult the English-speaking concierge with any inquiries, or simply take a rest in this spacious lounge.

Of course, I shall continue to stay where I am now and watch over the busy streets of Shibuya. It is an interesting street that is fi lled with endless surprises!

When will I meet you again?

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Chic Shopping in Shibuya You can’t say you’ve been to Tokyo until you have experienced the hustle and bustle of Shibuya, one of the maddest and most vibrant entertainment areas in the world.

Shibuya is the place for everyone, offering a kaleidoscope of shopping opportunities featuring fast-fashion brands, electronic goodies, beauty lines and more.

Located just across the street from the station, SHIBUYA 109 has been a trend setting center since the 1980s.

The eight-story fashion complex houses more than one hundred boutiques, so you can be sure that you will always come across something new, fun and ideally bizarre. For fashion-forward men, nothing compares to a walk into 109 MEN’S. In this building, business attire and hip casual wear always come with a twist of original charm.

H&M

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The multi-level flagship Shibuya store provides a welcoming atmosphere for the fashion conscious on the hunt for affordable and trendy clothing. The Swedish brand is extremely popular among Japanese girls in the 20s and 30s.

SHIBUYA 109 & 109 MEN’S MAP

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UNIQLO

FOREVER 21

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UNIQLO, a contraction of “unique clothing,” is a domestic brand of low-cost but high-quality fashion basics like T-shirts, capris and jeans. The exterior of the stores, always in white and red, is as simple and snappy as the clothing it sells. The fashion giant now operates more than 1,300 stores across 15 markets.

The fashion house is packed with shoppers any time of the day.

With over 4,200 square meters of floor space, FOREVER 21 Shibuya showcases a wide array of fast fashion, satisfying shopaholics’ cravings for latest choices in women’s wear, men’s wear, kid’s clothing, shoes and lingerie.

MAP

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Matsumoto Kiyoshi

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MAP

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Drugstores in Japan are a must visit for tourists. The myriad of products available at Matsumoto Kiyoshi, the largest drugstore chain in Tokyo, include over-the-counter medicines, cosmetics, local snacks, daily supplements and many other everyday items. Electric eyelash curler, steam hot eye mask and cooling feet sheet to relieve the fatigue of a long day’s walking are popular budget buys. For those who can’t read Japanese, an easy way to distinguish the store is to look for a building with striking yellow front. There are four Matsumoto Kiyoshi in Shibuya.

Duty-free shopping Many Japanese department stores give duty free prices to overseas visitors for purchases over 10,000 Yen, so be sure to bring along your passport with you if you’re on a shopping spree. Electronics are among the most appealing product categories for duty-free shopping in Japan, the Land of Electronics. A stroll in these shops will take you to a whole new experience with cellphones, cameras and personal computers. Foreign visitors are often amazed at the wide selection of high-tech washlets and stylish automated toothbrushes that can’t be found elsewhere.

MAP

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MAP

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Left: Unlike what the name suggests, BIC CAMERA sells more than just cameras. One can find watches, bicycles and other miscellaneous products at a discount. Right: LABI is also a wellknown consumer electronics chain offering an assortment of goods in Shibuya.

Smart shoppers often compare the prices of the two.

MAP

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TSUTAYA TSUTAYA bookstore and CD rental is the best place to be when waiting to meet up with friends.

You will never get bored with the comics and free trial listening of the latest J-pop music. Facing the famous Shibuya crossing, the second floor gives an amazing view of the crazy pedestrian traffic.

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Explore Japanese Craft Art and Souvenir in Shibuya Because it is known as center of youth fashion and culture, people may associate Shibuya as a town just for teenagers. However, there are various sophisticated department stores, state-of-the-art architecture, and museums situated in Shibuya. Whether you are interested in Japanese traditional craft arts or modern design goods, schedule these spots in your plans and you will find new facets of Shibuya.

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TOKYU Department Store Shibuya HONTEN 2

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1 3 5

6

The 12-floor department store sells products ranging from men and women’s fashion products and children’s wear to living goods. A high-quality supermarket, restaurants, and a bookshop can be found here as well. For Japanese craft lovers, 6F, the urban home floor, is highly recommended; shoppers can find sophisticated Japanese design products at reasonable prices. On the 7th floor, you can find a library-like spacious bookshop, which is a paradise for Japanese magazine and stationery lovers. The roof level is popular among locals, and is a relaxing place to get some fresh air during shopping; it has panoramic view of Shibuya.

1 Mt. Fuji-shaped cold sake glass set (2,700 yen): A beautiful sake glass can keep your Mt. Fuji memory vivid all the time. 2 Jewelry box (5,400 yen): The artwork-like jewelry box conveys a strong essence of Japanese aesthetics.

3 Nanbu tetsubin (8,640 yen): The traditions of the iron tea kettle meet cute modern colors such as pink and purple.

4 Osaka tin vessel tumbler (8,640 yen each): The tin vessel is said to purify the sake and make it taste sweeter.

5 Edo kiriko glass (left: 37,800 yen, right: 27,000 yen): Only very experienced craftsmen can make beautiful Edo kiriko. 6 Japanese sake set (pot: 8,640 yen, cup: 3,240 yen): In TOKYU department store Honten you can find a designer’s corner with sophisticated sake pots and cups designed by famous Japanese porcelain designers, but they are offered for very reasonable prices.

7 Fan-shaped plates set for 5 pieces set desserts (7,344 yen): The beautiful flower drawing represents the four seasons of Japan.

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4 places to enrich your soul in Shibuya Bunkamura

MAP

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Opera: Les Contes d’Hoffmann Date: July 5, 7, 9 (c)Jean-Pierre Maurin

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Bunkamura is a theater and concert hall complex run by the TOKYU Group and is situated next to TOKYU’s Department Store Honten in Shibuya.

The complex comprises cinemas, theaters, an art museum, and several shops and restaurants.

It is worth a visit not only for its performances and exhibitions, but also for the sailing-ship-inspired architecture.

Cerulean Tower Noh Theater

MAP

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Noh play: Kumasaka Date: Jun 29 (c)YOSHIHIRO MAEJIMA

The Cerulean Tower Noh Theater is located in one of the highest towers of Shibuya, the Cerulean Tower. Japanese traditional performing arts Noh and Kyogen—both designated UNESCO Intangible Cultural Property—can be appreciated here. The theater functions as a transmitter of Japanese culture; both professional Noh performances and amateur performances can be appreciated here.

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TOKYU HANDS Shibuya Store Established in 1976, TOKYU HANDS currently operates 28 department stores and 21 specialty stores in Japan.

“When you visit, you find what you want”; in this overwhelming department store, you can find DIY goods, bicycles, toys, bedding, beauty products, and any household products you can imagine. The best way to explore the Shibuya shop is to start from the 7th floor and browse through each floor in order, note down the floor you prefer, get some sweets and coffee at HANDS CAFÉ, and then go back to the floor you like. There are mountains of fun products that will be perfect for souvenirs; you will need plenty of time for this shopping paradise.

Nano block model 1

1 Nano block models (price varies; Tokyo Skytree: 2,700 yen): The 4 x 4 x 5mm block models are popular souvenirs among all ages; the difficulty to assemble them ranks from levels 1-8. 2 Nostalgic miniature house (4,320 yen): The miniature house will definitely remind you the beautiful memories of your trip to Japan. 3 Stainless steel vacuumware (2,859 yen): The surprisingly lightweight thermos bottles can keep temperatures for hours.

4 Food sample erasers (378 yen/ set): These tiny food samples might fit a Barbie house well, but they are actually erasers. 5 Sushi/Japanese sweet magnet (price varies): Adding some Japanese atmosphere to your kitchen with these food sample magnets.

2

Paper craft and miniature model

Various fun products

Stainless steel vacuumware 3

5 4

Shibuya is known for its busy shopping streets and entertainment area packed with nightclubs and game centers. However, there is more to explore, such as museums and beautiful Japanese gardens. Here we shortlisted 4 must-visit spots in Shibuya.

The Shoto Museum of Art

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Established in 1981, the museum exhibits artwork ranging from photographs and paintings to woodblock prints of various genres and eras. Designed by the famous Japanese modernist architect Seiichi Shirai, the museum is a must see for art or architecture lovers. Special exhibitions are held 4 to 5 times every year.

Nabeshima Shoto Park

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Located in a quiet residential area of Shibuya, the park was a private tea garden owned by the Nabeshima family in the early Meiji period. In 1932, the Nabeshima family installed a fountain in the garden and donated it to the city of Tokyo. The park is one of the popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Shibuya.

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Shibuya's Latest Landmark Shibuya Hikarie Shibuya Hikarie is a tall multi-facility building which houses Japanese cuisine and international gourmet restaurants, arts complex, lifestyle goods and fashion designs. With direct access from Shibuya Station, this landmark of Shibuya is one which you cannot afford to miss!

Elegant and delicious

Yojiya

148-year-old established shrimp cracker shop

Keishindo

Shibuya shrimp Crackers Box: 648 yen Monaka Wafer set: 1,029 yen

Matcha Cappuccino: 751 yen

Face color: 2,160 yen

Besides its famous facial oil blotting paper, do you know that Yojiya has a cafe?

From the bittersweet Matcha Cappuccino to the traditional Monaka Wafer set, you can enjoy elegant Kyoto sweets in your leisure time. Also, check out the array of retail cosmetic products developed specially to meet women’s desire for natural beauty.

Imprinted with traditional Japanese seasonal motifs, Keishindo’s signature shrimp crackers are not only delicious but aesthetically appealing. The limited edition box of “Shibuya Mixed shrimp crackers: 540 yen shrimp Crackers” features all the Shibuya’s representative icons such as the faithful Hachiko dog and the Statue of Moyai from Easter Island.

Available only at Shibuya Hikarie ShinQs

Experience the essence of Zen

ZEN KASHOIN Muromachi Bolo: 1,080 yen

Zen Castella (small): 648 yen Enjoy delicious castella cake made with premium Kyoto eggs from chickens that are fed with premium Tanba black beans at Zenkashoin. This traditional Japanese sweets and tea runs not only a cafe on the 5th floor but also a retail shop with all your favorite souvenirs at the 2nd basement level!

Tokyo's latest go-to place for musicals

TOKYU THEATRE Orb 47 prefectures under one roof photo: Katsuyoshi Tanaka

d47 d47 design travel store

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d47 MUSEUM

Meaning “Design from 47 prefectures”, d47 is an all-new concept space devoted to showcase the design from 47 prefectures of Japan. Besides exhibitions and events at the museum, there is also a restaurant that serves authentic regional cuisine. Don’t leave without grabbing some unique souvenirs from the d47 design travel store.

Musical: Bring it on Date: July 9~27 Located within Shibuya Hikarie is “TOKYU THEATRE Orb”, a brand new theatre that can house nearly 2000 visitors. Since its successful opening show of Broadway musical “West Side Story”, the venue has been hosting popular works, especially musicals brought to it by invitation from abroad.

Witness the Scramble Crossing Let local freelance photographer Yosuke Torii guide you through the best snapshot spots of Shibuya’s famous scramble crossing!

SPOT 2

SPOT 1

From the underpass exit next to Sanzenri pharmacy, you may frame your shot with the landmark 109 building in the center.

In front of Taiseido bookstore, you can get a perfect shot with Shibuya station and Hikarie in the background.

SPECIAL SPOT

SPOT 3

Though the window of the corridor connecting JR Shibuya station and Keio Inogashira line’s Shibuya station. A panoramic view is waiting for you.

Stay at SHIBUYA EXCEL HOTEL TOKYU for a bird’s eye view of the scramble crossing and the surrounding area. Exclusive for hotel guests! (The photo was taken from room 1701)

In front of Shibuya station, you can find many people standing on the high points behind the sculptures of children, trying to capture an unblocked view of the crossing.

TOKYU HANDS Shibuya Store

Tower Records Marui City

Shoto JHS

Police Station Bunkamura

Nabeshima Shoto Park

Loft

H&M

109MEN’S

TOKYU FOREVER 21 ❺ ❸ Department Store Bu C en k am terShibuya HONTEN ur a gai TSUTAYA s t re LABI ❽ et SHIBUYA 109 ❷ ❹ UNIQLO

The Shoto Museum of Art

❻ ❾ ❶

Shibuya Post Office

❼ BIC CAMERA

Matsumoto Kiyoshi Hachiko

SHIBUYA EXCEL HOTEL TOKYU SHIBUYA MARK CITY

TOKYU INN

JR Shibuya Station

Shibuya Hikarie

Shibuya Police Station

Shinsen Station

The numbers on the map point to the number of each shop in the Shibuya article.

Cerulean Tower Noh Theater

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WASHOKU

WELCOME TO THE CULTURALLY RICH WORLD OF JAPANESE CUISINE Registered in UNESCO`s World Cultural Heritage list, “Washoku,” or Japanese food, is not just delicious, but is also rooted in Japan’s rich culture.

When imagining Japanese food, sushi and tempura typically come to mind, but in Japan, the food that is eaten varies in accordance to season and occasion, and this practice continues to evolve with time.

With about 2,000 years of history, the art of Japanese food has evolved into what it is today. Made from fresh ingredients found during each season, Washoku dishes depict Japanese culture and history on a single plate or bowl.

Furthermore, Japanese food has not only evolved through the incorporation of new techniques and practices, but it is the only type of food in the world that continues to embrace tradition alongside modernity.

The way Japanese food is prepared and decorated is not solely for aesthetic purposes, but is linked to rituals and cultural and seasonal events. From its connection to tea ceremonies and martial arts, Japanese food is a vessel for spreading the rich culture of Japan.

Japanese food, not bound by the art of taste alone, has surely created a unique world of its own.

In this issue we will explore some of the many types and practices of Japanese food, such as “Everyday Japanese food,” “Seasonal food,” and Samurai`s food” in a simple and concise way.

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On UNESCO’s decision to inscribe “Washoku” as an Intangible Cultural Heritage Comments by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries The eighth session of the Intergovernmental Committee of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan Republic, has decided to inscribe “Washoku; traditional dietary cultures of the Japanese,” on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. I am extremely happy to hear this news.

I hereby express my sincere gratitude to all those people who worked with enthusiasm for many years to safeguard and transmit the tradition of “Washoku” on to future generations in many different regions of Japan, as well as to all those experts who contributed to this nomination.

“Washoku” is our indispensable dietary cultures that developed with a connection to the Japanese essential spirit of “respect for nature.”

Now, I defi nitely hope that the inscription of “Washoku” will encourage and bring pride to all those people who cherish the dietary cultures of their respective regions, and strive to maintain it.

I have been saying that this nomination should motivate Japanese nationals to discover the true worth of Japan’s dietary culture.

The inscription, therefore, is not the goal.

I determined to work further to create lasting interest in Washoku and moves to maintain it, and carry it onwards into the future.

December 5th, 2013

This article was reprinted from Homepage of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

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Japanese Food, Seasonal Fe st In Japan, a country with four distinctive seasons, the people have been using seasonal ingredients to produce food for This traditional custom has also been inherited and practiced since the era of warrior-class society.

specia

Sekku: Family rituals born out of traditional customs generation. Food, as nature’s blessings, nourishes the mind and body and prepares one for the future. Harnessing the energies of the seasonal elements, one can anticipate climate changes, ward off evil, and thus pray for descendants’ prosperity.

One example of sekku is Joushi, or the Doll Festival. The ancient Chinese belief that peaches can ward off evil and achieve longevity has evolved into a custom of consuming peach blossom wine and clams for the healthy growth of girls. On Boys’

Day (Tango), there is the custom of eating Kashiwa mochi wrapped in oak leaf or bamboo leaf rice dumplings and taking a shoubu (iris-leaf) bath. Also, it is said that a family will continue for generations to come if the old oak leaves continue to hang until the budding of new leaves. This festival, meant to celebrate the growth of boys, has been observed since the prosperous days of the warrior society.

As such, it is considered wise of Japanese people to harness energy from seasonal ingredients.

正月

端午 の節供

WASHOKU

Since ancient times, Japan has been observing special dates that were oddnumbered in odd-numbered months. The five major days—January 7th (Jin-jitsu), March 3rd (Joushi), May 5th (Tango), July 7th (Tanabata), and September 9th (Chouyou)—are known as sekku, times when special rites are practiced.

To pray for children’s smooth transition to adulthood, family members gather to feast on seasonal food. Seniors convey the ancient wisdom to the younger

Tango no Sekku “Tango no Sekku” or Boy`s Day, is celebrated on May 5th. Traditionally, May has been known to be the rainy season in Japan and a time when children`s lives were often lost due to effect of the long periods of cold rain.

As a prayer to prevent this, ceremonies were held on this day in which participants consumed medicinal herbs or made ornamental scent bags to hang outside their houses. Now it is a day to celebrate the growth of boys where decorative carp streamers and samurai warrior dolls are displayed.

Called “Joushi” in Chinese, “Momo no Sekku” or Girl’s Day was first celebrated by aristocrats during the Heian period (7th Century). A poetry reading festival was held to banish bad luck and dirt which later with the introduction of paper dolls became the modernly known as ”Girl`s Day” with the practice of writing down your own bad luck then placing it on the river or sea as a symbol of cleansing and as a prayer for health and prosperity.

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七夕

上巳

Joushi

Tanabata “Tanabata” is traditionally held to commemorate the souls of the deceased.

The date of the festival vary depending on the region but is generally held on a day within early to mid August. Back in the old days 5 colored cloth and paper mulberry leaves were used to write wishes on, which was later replaced to colorful strips of paper found in the modern days. During this time, seasonal delicacies of summer such as watermelon, “somen”, “edamame” and “azuki” beans are prepared.

Fe stivals, and Samurai Spirits

od for

special occasions and to pray for good health.

Seasonal dining menus determined by the deity recognized as the guardian of food and agriculture.

Hence, the first month is also the month of several special rituals for the Japanese people. When it comes to flowers, the one that most commonly adorns Japan’s scenery is the Sakura. As the beautiful yet fleeting blossom of Sakura attracts people for Hanami (flower viewing) every year, it also indicates the time to bid goodbye to the long winter.

Many festivals are held not just for

正月

New Year

the love of seasons but as an expression of gratitude for nature’s blessings.

One of the most significant events is Otsukimi, which is held to show appreciation to the deities and nature for the great harvest and express wishes for a good year ahead. Seasonal festivals such as Hachijyu-hachiya, Obon, and Shichi-go-san that have a close association with food make Japanese dining tables highly varied and colorful all year round.

観月祭

Sekku is not the only thing the Japanese people hold in great importance. Besides cherishing the beauty of nature’s changes through evolving scenery, the Japanese express their gratitude toward nature by adopting seasonal ingredients in their cuisine.

During the first month of the year, a special celebratory cuisine is prepared to celebrate the arrival of new deities, known as Toshigamisama. The amount of harvest for that year is said to be

Kangetsusai

New Years in Japan begins in mid-December with the customary practice of “house cleaning” and the setting of rice cakes and sweets to pay respects to the house along with prayers for the New Year. Until the first of January, preparation of “osechi ryori”, New Year cards, “otoshidama” and decorations are done. For the first three days of the New Year, osechi ryori, traditional dishes for New Years, coming from the thought of allowing the women of the house and “Kamagami”, deity of fire, to rest, are served.

“Kangetsusai” or full moon festival in fall is a practice admired since the time of the ancient Chinese and scheduled using the old oriental lunar calendar. For this event, two moons are admired: the full moon after “the middle of fall” and “the moon after” fall; it was considered unlucky not to celebrate both moons in some areas of Japan.

Celebrating the harvest of the season, dumplings and yams are customarily served for “the middle of fall moon” and chestnuts and beans for “the moon after”.

花見

Hanami

Mid-March through the end of April is the season for “hanami” or cherry blossom viewing in Japan. Traditionally, the cherry blossom has been a flower for mourning the deceased with the falling of the petals suggesting the end of a person`s life but now it is a flower connected to a joyous event celebrating the symbolic arrival of Spring. During this time groups of people can be seen boisterously drinking sake and eating bentos in the park while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Rieko Ido A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on findings to apply them to modern lifestyles.Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

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The Samurai Gourmet

WASHOKU

The Samurai Gourmet describes a form of Japanese cultural eating practice to improve one’s spiritual soul.

This lifestyle practice was born out of Japanese traditions such as respecting the ancestors, sharing food and helping one another. Historically, the Japanese have cultivated a sense of gratitude and respect for food, as it is considered to represent blessings from nature and intrinsic energies.

Treating the improvement of one’s luck with great importance, Samurai warriors began associating food with auspicious meanings. The consumption of locally grown seasonal produce, preparation process, plating, and culinary techniques are connected deeply to a pure intention of praying to the deities.

Hence, the Samurai Gourmet is an embodiment of the ancestors’ wisdom.

Meals consumed on the Days of Hare and Ke The most important aspect in the pursuit of the Omotenashi spirit for Samurai warriors is the spiritual mind. For the average Samurai, the famous meal is none other than the “Seven-Five-Three“ Honzen banquet.

“Seven-Five-Three” is structured based on “7”, “5,” and “3”—the 3 odd-digit numbers typically used for the celebratory ritual. On the Days of Ke, one consumes 7 dishes on the primary tray (honzen), 5 dishes on the secondary tray (ni-no-zen), and 3 dishes on the tertiary tray (san-no-zen). On the other hand, one will feast on everything from the primary to the fifth tray on special days known as the Days of Hare.

On the Days of Hare, extravagant cuisine (picture below) is served with a strong emphasis on seasonality, type of lacquerware, and plating style. Even if one is poor, he is said to have treated his guests with “Omotenashi” if he can prepare this top-notch cuisine for them on the Days of Hare.

On the Days of Ke, highly frugal food (two pictures above) is served that differs greatly from the food eaten on the Days of Hare.

Himiya Kanna Musuhi Foundation Representative Director Himiya Kanna systematizes food education, Japanese culture, Samurai banquet cuisine, and Musuhi’s food philosophy. She spreads her knowledge actively through lectures and speeches. The Samurai Gourmet “武士の食卓” on Facebook continues to reach out to audiences worldwide with more than one million followers. She is the author of many popular books. https://www.facebook.com/thesamuraigourmet.jp

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A Collection of Japanese Set Meal Restaurants

Teishoku, pronounced “tay-show-koo,” means “set meal” in English. It usually comes with white rice, a main dish, “sozai” (a side dish), “tsukemono” (pickled vegetables), and miso soup. Here, we introduce three of the hottest places that offer delicious teishoku.

Elegant Kyoto cuisine affirming to the roots of Japanese tradition

Hanasanshou With years of training in authentic Kyoto cuisine, head chef Yoshiaki Takada adopts a multi-dimensional approach to his cuisine without veering away from the Kyoto roots. Known as Kyo Kaiseki, the multi-course meal here draws on more than 400 years history of Kyoto cuisine, a highly stylized manifestation of the principles of inseason produce and seasonal variation.

Be handsomely rewarded with delicious food executed with precision as the mesmerizing city view of Tokyo unfolds before your eyes in this fine-dining restaurant on the 25th floor of the hotel.

A wide selection of Japanese sakes is also offered.

Hours: 11:30-15:00 (lunch), 17:30-22:30 (dinner) Address: 25F, Park Hotel Tokyo Shiodome, 1-7-1 Higashi Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Access: 7 minutes walk from JR Shimbashi station URL: http://www.parkhoteltokyo.com/restaurant/ hanasanshou.php

Eating your way to good health and restore the natural balance of your body

Rinato House Kitchen More than just a spa beauty store, Rinato House Kitchen offers holistic meals that are full of nutrition and tasty. The name Rinato means “reborn” in Italian, and the aim is to help health-conscious diners restore the beauty and natural balance of their bodies. The kitchen uses only fresh, local ingredients for all the dishes and changes the menu daily so that one can look forward to an exciting yet homely cuisine through all 365 days.

Choose 3 side dishes to pair with the organic 6-grain rice for the basic Rinato set, which comes with miso soup, pickles, and a choice of houjicha tea or coffee.

Hours: 11:30-16:00 (lunch), 18:00-23:00 (dinner), 11:30-16:30 (Sat, Sun, and holidays) Address: 2F, 16-2 Daikanyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Access: 3 minutes walk from Tokyu Daikanyama station URL: http://rinatohouse.com/kitchen/

Do Tabelka

Savvy lifestyle cafe with a Traditional crafts and goods store healthy dining CLASKA Gallery & Shop “Do” has set philosophy up its first cafe and kitchen, Do Tabelka—

Hours: 11:00-21:00 Address: 2F, COREDO Muromachi 3, 1-5-5 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Access: 2 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Mitsukoshi-mae station URL: http://do.claska. com/shop/do_tabelka/

complete with a tapestry design specially drawn by internationally renowned French artist Philippe Weisbecker. Diners can customize their own set menu comprising 3 side dishes and 1 soup with the choice of either 15-grain rice or enzyme genmai rice. Do Tabelka offers light traditional sweets such as Red Bean Zenzai during cafe time and a fine selection of wine during dinner. After a day’s shopping at Nihonbashi, wouldn’t it be great to take a break at this stylish cafe?

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OOTOYA

Caters the best “Teishoku” that tastes like home Eating a “Teishoku”, or set meal, at Ootoya is like eating at home. Ootoya prepares traditionally made Japanese food with each set meal containing a healthy balance of vegetables and a main dish along with a side of soup.

I WASHOKU

n Japan, there is ‘Teishoku’” is Ootoya`s catchphrase. It is popularly known as an easy place to get a quick bite of home-cooked Japanese meals. The wisdom and technique of traditional Japanese food is reflected in each meal.

An example is the way the white warehou is prepared in the Charcoal Grilled Soy Sauce Marinated White Warehou set meal. First, the white

warehou is marinated in soy sauce to add more flavor and aroma to the fish.

Then, it is grilled with a special charcoal griller which has ceramic balls that emit infrared lights and Bincho-tan (white charcoal, which is considered the best for grilling), allowing the fish to be cooked crisp on the outside and juicy in the inside. Furthermore, the Kaasanni (with chicken) set meal comes with grated radish which is great for

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Kaasanni set meal: Plenty of grated radish on top and surrounding the chicken (served steaming hot).

Ootoya Shinjuku Front Tower store: bright and spacious. 3 Ootoya diner (photo during the founding).

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digestion and easy on the stomach.

Again, the radish is prepared using an exclusive radish-grating device to allow customers to enjoy the radish in the tastiest way. The dried-bonito grating device was completed after two years of researching how to best grate dried-bonito while retaining its flavor.

Like this, each meal is prepared with preciseness and served in the most delicious way.

Despite the fact that Ootoya serves quick home-made cooking, the diner continues to pay special attention to the ingredients used. This is all possible due to the passion of their second company president, Hisami Mitsumori.

In 1978, he became the president at the young age of 21; through hard work and determination, he was able to expand a small diner in Ikebukuro into a well-known eatery with 400 shops worldwide. His sole goal has been to “recreate the traditional Japanese mother`s healthy homemade cooking”.

For this, he spent every dawn going to the morning market to purchase fresh ingredients and stayed awake till dusk to complete the recipes Ootoya customers have come to love. During these days, he incessantly made rounds to the many stores to check on the quality of the food and the customer service.

Following in his footsteps, his current successor, who is the third owner of Ootoya, can be seen doing the same process. Come eat a meal at Ootoya and taste all the love and care that is put in preparing each meal.

A closer look at the menu GRILLED FISH Fish is a common main dish in Japanese cuisine. For this reason, the type of fish prepared changes along with the change in seasons. To the left is a picture of the grilled white warehou.

With soy sauce-based flavoring, the fish is immersed in malt to soften it and add aroma. Have this with white rice.

TOFU/BE AN CURD

K ATSUOBUSHI/ DRIED-BONITO FL AK ES

Tofu is a necessity for a well-balanced, healthy Japanese meal. Ootoya`s tofu is soft, sweet, and handmade using beans from Hokkaido. It is delicious on its own or with freshly cut green onion, dried-bonito flakes and soy sauce for more flavor.

An ingredient commonly used in Japanese food. A traditional method passed on for 300 years is used to prepare the dried-bonito flakes here. With this method, it takes half a year to prepare a single piece.

Order this delicacy and taste the essence of Japanese food, the flavor of “umami”.

TONK ATSU/ PORK-CUTLET

OYAKO-DON/ CHICK EN AND EGG BOWL A staple of Japanese food, the Oyako-don, which stands for Parent and Child bowl, is named after its two main ingredients: chicken and egg. Grilled using Ootoya`s special charcoal griller, the chicken thighs are soaked with “umami” flavor.

Ootoya Data (2014.4) With about 400 shops worldwide, Ootoya continues to grow.

Overseas, Ootoya can be found in Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, and New York. The three most popular meals are the chicken and vegetable in black vinegar sauce set meal, the Ootoya lunch set, and the charcoal grilled basil chicken salad set meal. Each meal costs less than 1,000 yen, ranging from 620 to 915 yen (tax not included).

Ootoya uses soft Silky pork. It is cut into thick strips that are fried crisp in bread crumbs. All of the meat used is fresh from the market and it is aged for a period before it is cut and prepared to be cooked. Eat this with “sanshou-jio” (salt within Japanese pepper) or Ootoya’s special sauce.

SWEETS/DESSERT A specialty popular among young Japanese women, the rich flavored green tea “matcha” is used to prepare this. It includes a bittersweet green tea pudding, green tea ice cream, smashed sweet red beans, and sweetened dried bread-like pieces of wheat gluten.

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Comfort and luxury co m shopping at Houseki Hi ro for watches and jewel ry Shopping for less is one of the beauties of shopping in Japan, but did you know that you can save even more by shopping at Houseki Hiroba? Conveniently located near Shibuya Station, Houseki Hiroba sells luxury brand watches and jewelry for prices up to 20% to 30% (up to 70%) less than their Japanese retail pricing. All purchases are applicable to duty-free shopping and new products come with a box and warranty. If you love watches and jewelry, this is the place to be.

The store showcases about 5000 pieces of jewelry and watches

Houseki Hiroba jewelry and watch store was established in 1963. Once you step into the store, you will be shocked at the store’s huge selection. The store offers the largest known selection in Japan— about 5000 pieces of brand watches and jewelries, ranging from new products to

highly maintained secondhand products and antiques. All products are guaranteed genuine and imported directly from overseas distributors, allowing them to be sold at 20% to 30% (up to 70%) less than their original retail prices in Japan without compromising quality. Purchases can be made with all major credit cards including UnionPay cards. Moreover, Chinese- and English-speaking staff members are available to help you choose the watch that suits you best.

An array of luxury brands Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Omega, and Panerai are just some of the many brands that adorn the shop. From rare items to staples, the luxury watches laying in the showcases amount to about 3200 pieces, a sight found in no other shop located in the heart of Tokyo. Walk in and the staff will kindly assist you and answer all your questions regarding their products and your purchase.

With their stellar customer service, reasonable prices, and wide selection of products, the store continues to bring in customers not only from Japan but from around the world. New products are brought in regularly, so one visit is simply not enough.

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co me hand-in-hand when Hi roba, the ultimate shop el ry An experience even for the ladies Shopping at Houseki Hiroba is an experience not limited to men, but also perfect for the ladies. Fashionable watch brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Bulgari, and Chanel await you. Whether you are looking for a casual day-to-day watch or an extravagant diamond-filled statement piece, all can be found in this one store.

Shop without hesitation, because all new watch purchases come with a warranty.

Take your time in finding that perfect watch with the help of the friendly staff members. You can also find a wide selection of pair watches for couples. So why not come in with your special someone and give each other a special gift?

Rare pearls and jewels from high-end brands Another feature that makes Houseki Hiroba a popular shopping place for the ladies is its wide variety of reasonably priced, high-quality name-brand diamond and pearl jewelry. Ladies who are highly attuned to the latest fashion trends will be delighted to browse through a collection of rare pearls and jewels from chic brands such as Cartier and Bulgari offered at economical prices. Without having to go to another store, you can find the perfect jewelry

to match your perfect watch all in one visit. Perhaps even go home with a beautiful new Jade or Conch pearl jewelry. Look no further, this is the mustgo place for stylish women to snag the trendiest items of the season. Thanks to the huge selection of jewelry offered at Houseki Hiroba, you may even find that rare jewel that you have long been longing for. The encounter with the watch and jewelry of your destiny is waiting here.

Houseki Hiroba

Prizes for WAttention readers!

We are giving out exclusive prizes from Houseki Hiroba to readers who bring this magazine to the store: •For readers who visit the store, a special Japanese folding fan.

•For readers who make purchases at the store, a special stainless steel mug from Zojirushi Co., or a tumbler. *Please check the website for details.

http://housekihiroba.jp/

•Hours: 11:00-20:00 •Address: A2 Building 4-5 Floor, Udagawacho 28-3, Shibuya-ku,Tokyo •Access: 5 mins walk from Shibuya Station English and Chinese speaking staff available. Duty-free shopping for tourists available. Major credit cards accepted

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Japanese Traditional Crafts

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Japanese Craftsmanship: The Pursuit of Perfection Created by using the skills inherited from generations dating back more than 100 years ago, each craftwork is an expression of the artisans’ passion and enduring perseverance. These products that come in varied forms not only illuminate our homes but also invigorate our daily lives.

1 Nambu-tekki ironware: Made by hand, using traditional techniques, the ironware is characterized by distinctive patterns.

2 Hida-shunkei lacquerware: The use of suki-urushi (clear lacquer) gives the lacquerware a beautiful wood grain and garnish with degrees of transparency that change with time.

3 Wajima-nuri lacquerware: Renowned for its decorative reliefs made with gold leaf.Day 4 Traditional Japanese warosoku candles are carefully handcrafted. 5 Ichii-itto woodcarving: Originated in Takayama, the products are hand-carved, and no coloring is applied.

6 Odate-magewappa bentwood work: Made from thinly sliced Akita cedar, the work is perfect for making a lunchbox.

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Under the initiative by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry to conserve the heritage of traditional crafts, 218 items have been officially recognized and protected by law as the Traditional Crafts of Japan. The stringent qualifying criteria suggest that a huge significance is paid to the manufacturing process of each product.

It must be made not only with primary materials and techniques that have been in continuous use for at least 100 years, but also by hand for each detail—such as the shape, design, and texture. The materials should be environmentally-friendly, 6

instead of synthetic. These items are not to be confused with artwork that has a main purpose that lies in aesthetics expression because they are frequently used in our daily lives. For example, the yoghurt pottery cup, made with clay from Mt. Shodai in Kumamoto, reflects the functional sturdiness of Shodaiyaki, a highly-revered pottery craft with more than 400 years of history.

From the Tenpyo writing brush of Nara Prefecture to the metal-cast tea kettle from Iwate Prefecture, every designated item must be produced by an established local industry of that particular region.

Encapsulating the essence of Japanese culture, these timeless traditional crafts continue to color our lives and many more generations to come.

Traditional Japanese Crafts for Everyone Eager to get your hands on some of the exquisite masterworks? Head down to Aoyama Square, a onestop exhibition and retail store that stocks all kinds of traditional Japanese crafts, made by the country’s finest artisans.

Aoyama Square

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The delicately decorated box will add some Japanese aesthetic elements to your daily life. 2 You can find more than 100 types of traditional crafts in Aoyama Square. 3 This small postbox is a modern reinterpretation of Nambu-tekki ironware.

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Aoyama-itchome Exit 4 North Akasaka Mitsuke Aoyama Twin Roppongi

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For tourists who are visiting Tokyo or expatriates who are living in the city, Aoyama Square is a perfect place to find a special gift for yourself or special someone. The store offers a wide selection of Japanese traditional craft products, ranging from ceramics and woodcraft to textiles and lacquerware.

These products are not only elegant in design, but also practical items that can be used in your daily life. Moreover, you may get a chance to see experienced craftsmen demonstrate their skills during workshops that are held irregularly.

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Akasaka Post Office

Embassy of Canada

Aoyama Square

Hours: 11:00-19:00 Address: 8-1-22 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo TEL: 03-5785-1301 Access: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Aoyama-itchome station URL: http://kougeihin.jp/

Tsubaya

Asakusa Imahan Kappabashi Dogugaidori

If you found a superb knife that can cut anything effortlessly, you would most likely use that knife above all others. For such high-quality knives, head to Tsubaya, the renowned producer of fine blades.

The store houses more than 1,500 knives—it more accurately resembles a knife museum.

Among the wide selection are stylish kitchen knives produced using superior Japanese knife-making technology. Customers also often request that names be carved onto the knife handle. During your

trip, wouldn’t you consider getting your hands on one or two of these knives at this tax-free shop with English-speaking staff?

Tsubaya

Tsukuba Exp. Asakusa Sta ROX

Kaminarimon Dori

Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tawaramachi

Hours: 9:00–17:45 (-17:00 Sunday & Holidays) Address: 3-7-2 Nishiasakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo TEL: 03-3845-2005 Access: 10-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Tawaramachi Station URL: http://e288.jp/

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Japan's Fine Tableware Vol.5

Find heartwarming gifts from Noritake at their Ginza flagship.

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For your friends

o an undying friendship World-renowned Noritake has the perfect gifts and souvenirs for your Japanese travels. Browse the store while thinking about bringing home a special gift for that special someone.

Flower Calico Series: Pair of mugs, 5,000 yen. Bowl (27cm), 4,000 yen. Pair of bowls (Each 14.5 cm), 5,000 yen.

Noritake’s long-time seller, “Flower Calico” has reached 25 years since first being sold. It is the perfect gift for your friend to symbolize an undying friendship. Collect the whole series to make your tea time more enjoyable by dressing up your tea time cake with the series’ elegant designs.

For your significant other

To fertility and growth

For your family

To a house full of laughter

Noritake, founded in 1876 in Ginza, invented the first dinner set in Japan, which was soon exported to the United States and well accepted by the customers for its superior quality. From there on, Noritake tableware’s astounding quality became known worldwide.

Hearing this you may imagine expensive tableware, but Noritake also has affordable products that are equally high quality in design and functionality. Whether you are looking for something for your family, friends or yourself, the Ginza flagship awaits you.

For yourself

To your hard-working self As a gift to yourself, to relieve stress from your daily life or to reward you for working hard, the “Kiki” is the perfect set. With Kiki smiling at you, the design is drawn by none other than Ghibli, the creator of Kiki`s Delivery Service.

Kiki’s Delivery Service. Tea and Coffee plate set, 21cm plate (pink, blue). Each 2,700 yen. ©1989 角野栄子・ 二馬力・GN

Noritake GINZA

Gold and silver grapes design. Flower vase. Height is about 26cm. 70,000 yen.

Tea and Coffee plate set. 10,000 yen.

From the fact that it bears a lot of fruit, the grape vine has been known to be a symbol for fertility and growth. This vase, which is a reprint of an antique Noritake product, incorporates Art Nouveau style, expressed through its highly innovative design and beautifully drawn pattern.

“Jardin fleuri” is French for flower garden. Simple on the outside and decorative on the inside; unlike typical designs, this piece is especially stylish.

This tea set will brighten up the house with fun and laughter like blooming flowers in a garden.

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•Address: Bunshodo Building 2F, 3-4-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo •Number of products on exhibit: Approximately 1,000 •Hours: 11:00 – 19:30.

Open all year (except for New Year’s holidays) •TEL: 03-3567-6121 •Access: 1-minute walk from A13 exit, Ginza Station, on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line •URL: http://www. noritake.co.jp/tableware/ shoplist/index.html

DISCOVERY OF DESIGN GIFTS Communicating Fun from Tokyo Gift Show 2014 Regardless whether you are a fan of Japanese design goods or not, you might have been cheered by the sense of humor and innovation that rest in the soul of it. The magic that makes people smile lies in the wordless communication between designers and users. If you would like to get inspired or add some fun to life, just plan your trip for Japanese design goods hunting and enjoy the essence of Japanese aesthetics and philosophy in your daily life.

Decorative Japanese fan (uchiwa)/ Fusendo http://fusendo.com

Traditional Japanese sandal with Mt. Fuji (registered as UNESCO World Heritage) print/ SAKAGAWA http://www.kabusaka.co.jp/

Mt. Fuji shaped Japanese Sake glass/EDOCORE http://www.rakuten.ne.jp/gold/edocore/

Tokyo Gift Show Japan’s largest personal gift and lifestyle sundries international trade fair

Shark-shaped carton cathouse/ Cat can series by Furukawa http://furukawa21.jp/shop/ POCKET CASE/ Kna Plus http://knaplus.com/

Can-shaped cat scratching board/ Cat can series by Furukawa *It may take one month or more after placing your order http://furukawa21.jp/shop/

Tokyo International Gift Show (TIGS) is the largest international trade show in Japan, with the exhibits of personal gifts, consumer goods and decorative accessories. Established in 1976, TIGS is held semiannually, during spring and autumn at Japan’s stateof-the-art Tokyo International Exhibition Center (Tokyo Big Sight) organized by Business Guide-Sha, Inc. POCKET BAG/ Kna plus http://knaplus.com/

http://www.giftshow.co.jp/english/78tigs/index.htm

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The canal city Itako, filled with millions of flowers Found in Ibaraki prefecture, Itako city is a 70-minute drive from Tokyo.

Riverside city Itako is known for its impressive waterways and scenery of an idyllic countryside, where old buildings and streets remain. A view of the city is best enjoyed in the sun, and the months from May to August are when the city is most lively with events and attractions.

The marital sending of the Itako Ayame Bride

EVENTS

Hand rowing boat

The Suigo Itako Iris Festival is only one of the many events held in Itako city. We are introducing 3 of the hottest events that are held in summer. Be sure to join!

Mantoue Mantoue is held annually every August at Suiunzan ChĹ?-onji temple, which is the Higashi Kanto branch of the Nara Yakushiji temple. During this period, the place is lit up with the flames of about 10,000 lanterns. The place is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.

When: August 13 - 16, 2014 Where: Suiunzan ChĹ?-onji temple (Hinode 4-7, Itako city, Ibaraki prefecture / TEL.0299-66-0623)

Itako Gion-Sairei Festival (Parade of Floats) A festival with a long history of about 800 years, the Itako Gion-Sairei Festival is one of the biggest festivals held by Sogakumano shrine enshrined at the Tennozan. Three of the 14 parade floats are a part of the prefecture`s cultural asset, while the Itako Bayashi and the Shishi dance are of the prefecture`s intangible cultural heritage.

When: August 1 - 3, 2014 Where: Itako City, Itako District (Area

by JR Itako Station)

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Shikinen Grand Festival, Mifune Festival Kashima Shrine`s Mifune Festival is a rare festival on water held once in every 12 years during the Chinese year of the horse.

Just like in a Heian picture scroll, a fleet of more than 50 ships descend from the Kashima shrine.

When: September 1 - 3, 2014 Where: Kashima Shrine ~ Ichinotorii area ~ Kitaura Lake

Suigo Itako Iris Festival Have you ever seen a view of full-bloomed Irises, as far as the eye can see? Every year in late May, Itako comes alive with the blooming of Irises; this includes about 500 different species and colors of Irises that amount to one million. With the blooming of the Irises, the canals become boisterous with rowboats. You can perhaps ride one and sightsee, while the boat is being rowed by a lady boatman.

During this time, the Suigo Itako Iris Festival is held for about one month, during which many dance the Iris dance to traditional music playing. The 30-minute long rowboat sightseeing attraction is exclusively held at the festival and is especially popular. Another event special in this festival is the marital sending event, held on Wednesday, Saturdays, and Sunday.

Here, a sighting found in the olden days is recreated. Furthermore, on Saturday nights, you can catch “The Night Marital sending of the Itako Ayame Bride” performance ; the Iris garden is beautifully lit up for a passing of the boat that is carrying a bride to be wed. After a fun-filled day at the festival, complete your week by basking in a fantasy-filled night.

POWER SPOT

70min Itako Tokyo

Suigo Itako Iris Festival When: May 24 - June 29, 2014 (37 days) Where: Suigo Itako Iris Garden (Ayame 1-5, Itako city, Ibaraki prefecture / TEL. 0299-63-1187) Best time: Early June, when Irises are in full-bloom

The so-called power spots are places for people to relax or be spiritually recharged. Here are two of the power spots near Itako. Join us and feel the incredible energy offered by nature and spirits.

Kashima Shrine

Katori Shrine

As the headquarter of about 600 shrines nationwide, the Kashima shrine, along with its neighboring Kamisu city`s Ikisu shrine and Katori city`s Katori shrine, is referred to as the Tōgokusansha.

On the first three days of year about 600,000 people from all over the country come here to pay respect.

The Katori shrine is known for being a power spot. In the past catfishes were said to be the cause of earthquakes. The Kaname stones in Kashima shrine and Katori shrine are said to have the power of calming earthquakes by holding the heads and tails of the giant catfishes that are said to swim under the ground.

WAttention Recommended SHOPS Lots of tasty food and souvenirs Shop Michi-no-eki Itako sells more than 3,000 types of souvenirs. One of their popular delicacies is the Rainbow dora, a sweet snack that has been created based on Japan`s traditional Dorayaki. Walk into the store and watch the Rainbow dora being hand prepared and baked one by one. Try our favorite, the yogurt and yogurt drink, which are made from locally produced milk.

Michi-no-eki Itako •Access: 1 minute drive from Itako IC exit on the Higashi Kanto expressway •Where: Maekawa 1326-1, Itako city, Ibaraki prefecture •Hours: 9:00 – 19:00 (no holidays) •TEL: 0299-67-1161

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Aiyu`s sake tastes of refinement and skills

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Made with rice by a skilled sake brewer, spring-water based Aiyu`s sake was first produced during the establishment of the company in 1804. The company is also known for making sacred sake, devoted to God offerings. The company’s sake brewery offers daily a 30-minute to 40-minute free tour, during which you can indulge in some sake tasting. For this opportunity, you must call to make a reservation. For those who cannot go, fortunately, they can purchase sake at Daimaru Matsuzakaya and Ginza Ibaraki Marche.

Aiyu Shuzo (Sake Brewery) •Access: 20-minute walk from JR Itako station •Where: Tsuji 205, Itako city, Ibaraki prefecture •Hours (Sake Brewery): 9:00 –17:00 •URL: http://www.aiyu-sake.jp/ •TEL: 0299-62-2234

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Quality Long-term Stay at Sakura House For those who are looking for accommodation for at least a month, Sakura House provides excellent and comfortable apartments, share houses, and dormitories located conveniently within walking distance to train and subway stations. Exclusively for international community, these accommodations are fully furnished so that you can start your new adventure in Tokyo right away. Unlike typical real estate agencies in Japan, Sakura House only requires a deposit of 30,000 yen and the first month’s rent to move-in! Look forward to an exciting and memorable stay at Sakura House as various events, from traditional cultural ceremonies to friendship parties, are held regularly.

Sakura Office in Shinjuku

Sakura House - Sendagaya The Sendagaya share house is conveniently located with walking distance to Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku.

You can find all sorts of information in Sakura House Office.

Friendly staff will help you find the accommodation suitable for you.

While guests can place their booking online prior to their arrival in Japan, they can also make reservations personally at the office in Shinjuku, where friendly and knowledgeable staff will provide meticulous assistance on the most convenient and suitable accommodation in Tokyo. Be assured that there is absolutely no communication problem as every member of the international staff community is capable of several languages, including Japanese. You can even arrange for a tour of your preferred choice before making your decision!

Residents studying Japanese together in the common area.

Staying in a share house has numerous benefits than renting a house in Tokyo. While kitchen, shower and bathroom are shared with housemates, one can still enjoy individual space in the private bedroom. Furthermore, guests not only save a great deal of money but also make friends and exchange culture with people from different countries. More than just a place to live, the share house allows one to study, play and lead a fulfilling life in Tokyo.

Sakura House - Muslim House Rooms

Located near the Tokyo Camii Mosque, this house in the quiet suburbs of Yoyogi Uehara is Japan’s first ever share house exclusive for the Muslim community. Residents from many different countries, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, France, USA, Turkey, Algeria, and Egypt are experiencing great satisfaction living in this share house as it allows them to adapt safe and easy life in Japan.

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Similar to other share houses, all rooms are fully furnished with air-con and complimentary wifi internet access. Apart from private bedrooms, one can also opt for the dormitory style rooms where one share the space with another guest. Rooms and facilities are located on separate floors for men and women. For any queries, Muslim staff members are available for guidance and support.

Facilities

One of the unique facilities here is a prayer room which is available inside the house. Also, with an individual washing-up area, there is no need to queue to use the sink especially during morning rush hour! Besides cooking in the kitchen, guests can also try the delicious halal foods at a 24-hour restaurant in Sakura Hotel Hatagaya which is located nearby.

Tokyo’s Trendy Hot Spot

ROBOT RESTAURANT Immerse in a glittering world of fantasy

Prior to my visit, my impression of this theme restaurant is no more than the fleeting images of gigantic female robots riding on advertising trucks.

Yet I still could not describe my actual experience with precise adjectives. One can say that the show was like science fantasy, sexy, surreal, and with a tinge of humor. Some parts of the show resembled the stereotypical representations of Tokyo in Hollywood films while other parts reminded me of the vibrant shots by one of Japan’s celebrated photographers, Mika Ninagawa.

In Kabukicho, a dazzling town that never sleeps, we were led into a fantasy world by female androids throwing sexy winks around. Next, we boarded a glittering escalator before arriving in a blindingly colorful lounge. In the lounge, we were greeted by comfortable sofas, mini dinosaur robots, and images of ancient Roman warriors that flashed across a large screen. Built with an alleged budget of 10 billion yen, every corner was littered with extravagance.

Before the show began, we collected our Japanese bento (charged separately from April 2014) and located our reserved seats.

This place should be more precisely, a cabaret theatre for Moulin Rouge shows, instead of a restaurant. More than half of the customers are foreigners.

Beginning with taiko drums and boisterous shouts, the show proceeded with dragons and sharks that battled against robots. Subsequently, the climate was raised to the next level by a parade of giant androids.

This was indeed a meticulously arranged show in every detail. We could even take photos with the robots during the intermission.

If you cannot picture the scene from these words, then you should make a trip to check out this intriguing world yourself. It’s truly a brilliant land of robots and sexy ladies.

ROBOT RESTAURANT Information

Enjoy seasonal Japanese bento during the performance.

Audience even include children.

Wait in the dazzling lounge before the show.

Hour: 18:00-23:00. First show begins from 19:00 (time and program are subject to changes) Address: 1-7-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Tel: 03-3200-5500 Admission: 6,000 yen (not inclusive of bento) Access: 5-min walk from JR Shinjuku Station URL: http://www.shinjuku-robot.com

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Where The History of Japan s Fine Tableware Began Established in 1904, Noritake was the first company to succeed in making western-style tableware in Japan.

Synonymous with supreme craftsmanship and elegant style, Noritake s fine tableware has been loved throughout the world as its beauty has continued to transcend over the ages.

Noritake GINZA

Noritake SAKAE

•Hours: 11:00~19:30, closed during New Year holidays •Address: Bunshodo Building 2F, 3-4-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo •TEL: 03-3567-6121 •URL: http://www.noritake.co.jp/ tableware/shoplist/ginza.html

•Hours: 10:00~18:00; closed on the 1st and 3rd Sundays •Address: 2-1 Shin sakaemachi, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi •TEL: 052-951-0561 •URL: http://www.noritake. co.jp/tableware/shoplist/ sakae.html