Wattention Singapore vol 36

Singapore Edition

Tokyo - Taiwan - L.A. - Malaysia - Thailand - Paris - Mumbai - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico

TA K E FREE

Jan / Feb 2017 VOL.36 MCI (P) 115/10/2016

Explore

territory & experience the four seasons of

Oku-Nikko Plus, discover The Way of the Meat

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暦 Koyomi 1 st Januar y

こよみを楽しむ

IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS

Hatsumode

初詣

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

The Japanese New Year starts with the tolling of the temple bells known as Joyanokane. Temples throughout Japan start ringing their bells on December 31st a few minutes before midnight to help usher in the New Year. According to Buddhist beliefs, the solemn sound of the bell rids people from evil desires, anger and obsession, and purifies their soul for the upcoming year.

On the morning of New Year’s Day, the head of the family used to get water from a well or tap and offer it to the Shinto altar in the house as a way to pay respect to the god of the year. This particular water is called Wakamizu, the first water of the year, and is believed to give rejuvenating power

to people. Later the water would be shared among family members so as to drink in the holy power of wakamizu.

These old traditions are the origins of a modern custom called Hatsumode, the first visit to a shrine or temple. As times change, there are fewer families who own Shinto altars in their houses. So instead, they would go to nearby shrines and temples, or go to famous ones to welcome the New Year. Many people assume Hatsumode is a centuries-old tradition, but it was only relatively recently that people started visiting sacred places on New Year’s Day. Though customs have changed, the intrinsic nature of welcoming a new year by facing a lucky direction and praying to

the gods remains the same. After all, as they say in Japan the “New Year’s Day is the key to having a good year.” At temples, visitors walk to the main hall, ring the bell, make offerings and pray. Some of them write their wishes on wooden plaques and hang them up, try a fortune slip or purchase a decorative arrow that wards off evil. Hatsumode is now one of the most practiced New Year customs among Japanese people. What better way to ring in the New Year.

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

Currently teaches at Tama Art University.

WAttention Singapore |

3

W NE N OPE

雅膳 MIYABIZEN

ＤＩＮＮＥＲＣＯＵＲＳＥ

Indulge in seasonal cuisine that tastes as good as it looks

旬の刺身盛り合わせ SASHIMI

ランチセット LUNCH SET

Led by Chef Tachibana who has 53 years of experience in Kaiseki cuisine, YOKOWA is Your Okawa . Enjoy carefully crafted, authentic, rich Japanese flavours at our Tanjong Pagar shop house.

Tachibana Hideaki

日本酒 SAKE

立花 秀明

A certified chef of the Japan Chef Federation, he has worked in famous restaurants such as Kappou Matsuba in Akasaka, and Sushi Ishikawa in Shinjuku, appeared in various media and conducts lessons to promote Japanese cuisine all over the world.

一品料理 ALALARTE

Tg Pagar Rd

9770-2122 (For reservation only) 11.30am - 3pm( (L.O. 2.30pm) 5pm - 12am（L.O. 10.30pm） Closed on Sunday

d il R Ne

Rd ON XT DU

YOKOWA

21 Duxton Road

Cook St

VOL.36

SPECIAL FEATURES

NIFFY NINJA, NOTABLE NIKKO & NONSTOP NIKU 03

In Harmony with the Seasons

06

What’s New? SPECIAL FEATURE

08

Japan’s Nin-vincible Ninja

– Uncover the secrets of Japan’s beloved secret agents

18

Awesome side trips from Tokyo: Oku-Nikko – Discover a mountain load of activities just two-hours from Tokyo

26

The Way of the Meat – Delve into the meatiest trends from Japan to Singapore

23

JPN47 Vol.15 – Iga City, Mie Prefecture

24

Japan Travel & Beyond – Winter/Early Spring Guide

40

Interesting Facts about Japanese Words Vol.10

41

Lifestyle & Entertainment

42

Event & Information

日本古来のスパイ“忍者”の全て 将軍が眠る世界遺産の街 日光 肉への愛が止まらない Publisher

Yasuko Suzuki Minook International (S) Pte Ltd 2B Craig Road Singapore 089662 Tel: (65) 6324-2127 E-mail: singapore@wattention.com

Editor in Chief Naoki Kiyota

Advertising Sales

Ayako Miyazaki / Miyoko Takeuchi / Hana Omori Mikako Suzuki / Naotaka Ichinose Aruma Kawabata

Editorial Team

Victoria Ng / Lam Ying Wai / Yumi Kanari

Design Team

Chew Yan Qiao / Eunice Wee / Eric Voon

Japan Editorial & Design Team

Ayako Sogo / Yuka Suzuki / Kenji Ishida

Photographer

Maiko Yoshimoto / Hajime Watanabe Lim Hui Xian (Doubleshot)

Partners

WAttention Co., Ltd

Cover Photo

Nagoya Castle, Ninja MUSEUM Igaryu Huber’s Butchery and Bistro

Contributor Aki Tajima

Special Thanks Teppei Nitobe, Iga City, Iga Ueno Tourism Association, Kōga City, Biwako Visitors Bureau Nagoya Castle and Chido Museum, Aichi Prefecture

本誌に関する日本国内でのお問い合わせ先 和テンション株式会社 Tel: +81 3-6418-5701 Fax: +81 3-6862-6760 E-mail: info-tokyo@wattention.com Prices printed are indicative only.

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! 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。

WATTENTION is a publication of Minook International (S) Pte Ltd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bonafide information available to The Publisher at the time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility other than that stipulated by law. The Publisher also accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced in part or full without the previous written permission of The Publisher.

Neither can any part be stored or recorded, by any means. The opinions expressed in The Publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher.

This publication and the name are owned solely by Minook International (S) Pte Ltd, 2B Craig Rd, Singapore 089662. Email: singapore@wattention.com. WAttention is published bimonthly and distributed throughout Singapore. Trademarks and copyrights for all other products, logos and depictions contained herein are the properties of their respective trademark and copyright owners.

All colour separation and printing by NPE PRINT COMMUNICATIONS PTE LTD Licence No. L007/12/2016 39 & 41 KALLANG PLACE, Singapore 339169 Distributor: DJ Express Services

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5

アテンション！新登場

WAt’S Somerset and others

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Enjoy a karaoke party this festive season This major karaoke chain with more than 450 outlets in Japan has opened its eighth and largest branch in Singapore at Orchard Cineleisure. The rooms come equipped with a large LCD TV screen and a touchscreen song selection panel which makes finding songs and artistes a breeze. Pocket-friendly prices starting from $10 for two hours and convenient locations coupled with free-flow drinks and tidbits at the service bar is one of the main draws of Manekineko. The newest Cineleisure outlet also has a huge VIP function room that can cater to up to 150 people, perfect for hosting your year-end parties. J-pop and anisong fans can take their pick of more than 20,000 songs to sing their hearts out!

Customise your very own party for Christmas, CNY and all special occasions and events with Manekineko; simply contact 6837-3003 or email events@koshidaka.com.sg to find out more!

KARAOKE

A Friendly & Safe Environment for Karaoke

Tanjong Pagar

JAPAN RAIL CAFE Tanjong Pagar Centre #01-20, 5 Wallich Street JAPAN RAIL CAFE

First Japan travelthemed café opens in Singapore!

Come December 2016, Japanese train operator East Japan Railway ( JR East) will be opening their first overseas JAPAN RAIL CAFE at the brand new Tanjong Pagar Centre. Aside from tasty meals, the cafe will also serve as a retail space for trendy Japanese items and exclusive products featuring a different region of Japan every month. Travellers planning to visit Japan will be happy to note that friendly staff are stationed at the café to provide accurate information and advise on transportation methods. JR rail passes can be bought at the in-store Japan rail pass counter as well. By establishing this cozy space, JR East hopes to provide Japan-lovers with a platform to share stories and build a closeknit community.

The Ultimate A.B.C Burger ......... $22 Watashino Curry Rice ...................$18 Seasonal Iced Fruit Tea ........... $6.20 6

| WAttention Singapore

NEW

RESTAUR ANTS | SHOPS | EVENTS

Tanjong Pagar

Yokowa Japanese Restaurant 21 Duxton Road | 9770-2122 Mon-Sat 11.30 - 3pm (L.O 2.30pm), 5pm - 12am yokowa.sg (L.O 10.30pm)

Luxurious kaiseki dishes to feast your eyes on Since its grand opening in December this year, this kaiseki (会席) specialist has been steadily gaining popularity amongst Japanese food lovers. The restaurant prides itself on its okowa (おこわ), a traditional Japanese dish of steamed glutinous rice mixed with vegetables or meat. The kitchen is helmed by Chef Hideaki Tachibana, who has 53 years of experience working with some the best hotels in Japan. In addition to the two dinner courses, the menu also features colourful sets for lunch and a variety of exquisite a la carte items such as sous vide cold beef and homemade mizuyōkan (水羊羹).

Tsukizen Dinner Course ........... $158 Miyabizen Dinner Course ............ $198 Lunch Set (Matsu) ................. from $38

River Valley

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Men’s cut .........................$60

3D Colour ............... from $140

Lady’s cut ........................ $65

Love is in the hair Fans of Japanese hair services can now swing by bump’s newest outlet for a pampering session. Try their 3D colouring, which combines highlights and lowlights to create a more dynamic and trendy look. Their first salon is located at Holland Village, and all stylists have at least eight years of experience, so you know you are in good hands!

[ Promotion ] Get 15% off all services. *Applicable at River Valley outlet only *1st time customers only *Valid till 31 Dec’16

NEW

Suntec City

Gudetama Café Singapore ぐでたまカフェ Suntec City Mall #01-361 | 6677-6195 | Mon-Thu 9am - 10pm Gudetama Café Singapore Fri-Sun 8am - 10pm Gudetamacafe.sg

Gudetama Lobster Onsen ... $16 TA-MA-GO ..................... $17.90

Rib - "I" Don't Care (200g) .$28.50 "Shoyu Ramen" Set ...... $21.50

Eggs-citing new café opens in town The latest addition to Singapore’s themed café scene comes from Sanrio’s famous lazy egg. Located in Suntec City, the menu consists of 10 main courses – such as the "I'm Cold" Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict $26.90 – four side dishes, fi ve desserts, two kids’ meals and a range of specialty drinks. Inspired by popular scenes from the animation, it is co-created and styled by award-winning bento artist and local food blogger “Little Miss Bento”, Shirley Wong.

WAttention Singapore |

7

忍 者

Japan's Nin-vincible ninjas

Black suits, throwing stars, clandestine missions – these are the things that most people recognize Japan’s iconic stealthy secret agents for.

But a lot of their history is shrouded in mystery and what is considered common knowledge is often more fiction than fact.

Fortunately, Japan has managed to retain and restore some ninja artifacts and places of interest. Dive into the world of Japan’s famous covert agents and take gander at everything that makes them who they are from history and culture to food and landscape.

服 部 忍半 者蔵 隊

HATTORI HANZO and the Ninjas

Nin ja Facts

#01

Before the word ninja appeared in the 1800s, the kanji characters 忍 and 者 were more commonly read as shinobi-no-mono, or shortened as shinobi.

© aichi-ninja

Shiga:

Milestone history

Kōga-ryū

The beginnings of Kōga-ryū (School of Kōga) can be traced to the end of the Muromachi period when Ashikaga’s ninth shogun, Ashikaga Yoshinao, tried to subjugate Sasaki Rokkaku (a ruler of part of southern Shiga). Rokkaku had an army of warriors trained in guerilla warfare, including 53 families who would eventually become A ninja practising at known as the Kōga ninjas.

Handousan which is

甲 賀 流

First recorded use of espionage warfare by Prince Shōtoku.

First “official” clandestine ninja mission led by Mochizuki Izumo no Kami at the battle of Magari.

known as the mountain of enduring ascetic practices for priest.

望 月 出 雲 守

Mochizuki family mon (crest)

Nin ja Facts

Mochizuki Izumo-no-kami Head of the 53 Kōga warrior families of Kōga-ryū, he was a master strategist who was responsible for the Kōga ninjas during a crucial moment in their past and also led their victory against their three year siege against Ashikaga which cemented their place in history.

Karasugatake

Kōka,

Shiga Prefecture

Handozan

Shinobi make a strong appearance during the Sengoku period.

#02

6th Century

1487

15th Century

Mystical master ninja Umedo Koshi attracts Oda Nobunaga’s attention with a ‘magical’ scroll.

1574

Tokugawa Ieyasu escapes the chaos of the Honnoji incident with the help of Hattori Hanzo’s ninjas.

1582

Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eighth shogun, establishes his secret service the “Oniwa-ban” (御庭番).

1716

Hando Shrine Kōnan Central Sports Park Iwaosan

Roughly an hour's drive between the two prefectures.

Sasagadake

A number of shinobi manuals, based on Chinese military philosophy were written, including the Bansenshukai ( 萬川集海).

Amagoiyama Mt. Ryozen

Iga,

Mie Prefecture

Mie:

Iga-ryū

伊 賀 流

Ninja statue located beside Ginza No Yakaya [Wa Hall • Gallery]

Japan’s first official United States delegation includes the Oniwa-ban Muragaki Norimasa.

Saikyozan

During the early Muromachi period, the people from Iga became independent from their feudal lords and established a small republic in the region called Iga Sokoku Ikki (伊賀惣国一揆; the Iga Republic). There, amongst the local mountains and forests they would train in their ninjutsu (the art of stealth), eventually becoming the favourites of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

服 部 半 蔵

© CHIDO MUSEUM /Yamagata

17th - 18th Century

1860

Nin ja Facts

Hattori Hanzo #03

Sengoku’s most famous ninja is credited with saving the life of Tokuguawa Ieyasu and later helping him with becoming the ruler of Japan. Born and raised in Iga, Mikawa Province (now Iga-chō, Okazaki, Aichi), he fought his first battle at 16, successfully rescued Tokugawa’s hostage daughters at 20 and laid siege to Kakegawa Castle at 29.

滋賀

Captivating Koka Located in the Shiga Prefecture, Kōka, or Kōga City as it is sometimes rendered, is not just home to the Kōga ninjas but a wide variety of interesting foods to eat and sights to see.

L ET 'S GO!

nInJa Spot

甲 賀 流 忍 術 屋 敷

Kōka Nin ja House This 300-year-old house may appear like an ordinary house on the outside, and even after you step inside, but not all is as it seems. Inside, the house is equipped with many ingenious traps and devices designed to prevent and confuse intruders as well as provide a means of escape to its occupants. Unlike other themed attractions, this is the original home of the legendary Mochizuki Izumo No Kami, making it a truly authentic ninja experience. It is the only, real Japanese ninja house in the area. It also doubles as a museum with multiple displays of traditional ninja equipment including various kinds of shuriken and other unique tools. Guides are available at the museum but only in Japanese. English pamphlets are available upon request.

Access: 20 min. walk south of Konan Station on the JR Kusatsu Line Address: 2331 Ryuhoshi, Kōnan-chō, Kōka-shi, Shiga Prefecture, 〒520-3311 Admission fee(s): ¥600 Closed from Dec 27 – Jan 1, opening hours 9 am- 5 pm (Entrance until 4.30 pm.) kouka-ninjya.com

nInJa Spot

甲 賀 駅

The famous black costume is actually inspired by kuroko (黒子) who were stagehands in traditional Japanese theatre.

JR Kōka Station

One of Japan’s most uniquely localised train stations, JR Kōka Station’s facade resembles a farmer’s storehouse while the inside is painted up with colourful, almost ingenuous ninjathemed paintings. Visitors to the station can immerse themselves into the world of ninja thorough the use of optical illusion or “trick art”.

鴨 鍋

家 紋

Nin ja Facts

#04

Kamo Nabe

A local favourite, kamo nabe, or mallard hot pot, is best enjoyed during the cold season. In the past, mallards were hunted during their migration Kamo suki period as they travelled to Lake Biwa. The meat is firm and has a sweet, fatty flavour and served with a hot pot filled with tofu, leeks, Chinese cabbage and other vegetables. It is available as shabu-shabu or sukiyaki.

Shop Name: Chimoto (千茂登) Access: 5 min. walk from Nagahama Station Address: 3-1 Asahi-cho, Nagahama-shi, Shiga Prefecture, 〒526-0056 e-nagahama.com/timoto

10

| WAttention Singapore

nInJa Spot

甲 賀 の 里 忍 術 村

Pick up nifty gifts from the sovenir shop.

Kōka Nin ja village Surrounded by rich forests on a plot of simple land is one of Kōka City’s most famous ninja attractions. Ninja hopefuls from around the world visit this isolated village in the hopes of “training” to become ninjas. The area is filled with interesting activities suitable for all ages. The Ninja Dojo is a house full of traps and secret panels while the Kōka Ninjutsu Museum is a quaint archive of history and contains a collection of traditional ninja weapons. You can also try your hand at throwing shurikens or take part in a nine-stage obstacle course which includes using a mizugumo to cross the small Water Spider Pond the old fashioned way.

Ninja costumes are available for rent starting from ¥1,000.

水 蜘 蛛 の 池

Access: 5 min. free shuttle bus ride from Koka Station on the JR Kusatsu Line Address: 394 Kōka-cho Oki, Kōka-shi, Shiga Prefecture, 〒520-3405 Admission fee(s): ¥1,030 Closed on Mondays, except during summer holidays koka.ninpou.jp

nInJa Spot

忍 者 餃 子

甲 南 P A 下 り

Made with kurokage black rice flour from Kōka City, these “shuriken” gyoza are inspired by the famous ninja throwing stars. The awardwinning gyozas are filled with juicy meat and seasonal vegetables harvested from local farms and owe their rich flavours and colours to an all-natural charcoal powder.

Shop Name: Kōnan Parking Area (from Tokyo) Address: 3166-2 Sugitani, Kōnan-cho, Kōka-shi, Shiga Prefecture, 〒520-3314 kounan-pa.jp

Snap interesting photos at the nearby trick art.

忍 者 巻 き

Nin ja G yoz a

Nin ja Maki

Created two years ago to revive interest in Kōka City’s food and history, this unique sushi can only be found in Kōka City. Authentic Kōka Ninja Maki must be made with dried gourd shavings and rice from Kōka City, and be shaped like a makimono.

夏 の 花 火 An example of Ninja Maki from Kōka City

Shop Name: Izakaya Shinsen Megumi (居酒屋新鮮め組) Address: 1 50-5 Yokusen Mizuguchi-cho, Kōka-shi, Shiga Prefecture 〒528-0058

熱 気 球 琵 琶 湖 横 断

琵 琶 湖

L ake Biwa

Occupying a sixth of Shiga Prefecture, Biwako is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. It often appears in Japanese literature because of its proximity to Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto. The lake is host to various events throughout the year including the Nagahama and Kita-Biwako Great Fireworks in summer and the Lake Biwa Crossing hot air balloon race held every winter. It is surrounded by various World Heritage and National Treasure spots such as Hikone Castle, Hogonji – which is in the lake itself – and Shirahige Shrine. www.biwako-visitors.jp

白 髭 神 社

Interesting Iga

Found just north of Shiga Prefecture, in Mie Prefecture, Iga City is named after the Iga Province and sometimes referred to as Iga Ueno.

nInJa Spot

賀 忍 者 特 殊 軍阿 団修 羅

伊 賀 流 忍 者 博 物 館

Nin ja MUSEUM of Igaryu This comprehensive ninja experience consists of a ninja residence, two exhibition halls and a stage for ninja shows. On the outside, the ninja residence is unremarkable but within you will find tricky revolving walls, trap doors and hidden compartments. Here you can learn about secret codes, hidden ninja arts and ancient ninja writings. You can enjoy a guided tour of the house or explore it on your own as the exhibits have signs in both Japanese and English.

Access: 10 min. walk north of Uenoshi Station Address: 117-13-1 Ueno Marunouchi, Iga-shi, Mie Prefecture, 〒518-0873 Admission fee(s): Adult ¥756, children ¥432 Closed from Dec 29 – Jan 1 iganinja.jp

nInJa Spot

む ら い 萬 香 園

Murai Bankoen

This historic café is owned by the grandson of a ninja enthusiast who studied about the Iga ninja and even opened his own ninja school. Famous for his friendly nature, he often holds small talks about ninja at the café which serves a wide array of ninja-themed desserts – such as a Ninja Parfait that uses Vanilla-Matcha Hokkaido soft cream – and Iga tea that is clear with a sweet, crisp flavour. The café also has a small corner that is filled with ninja memorabilia such as traditional ninja tools and weapons, and even had its very own cat mascot who occasionally donned its own ninja costume!

Access: 6 min. walk from Uenoshi Station Address: 3130 Ueno kodamacho, Iga-shi, Mie Prefecture むらい萬香園

三 重

Nin ja Facts

#05

Ninja weapons were mostly developed from farming or mining tools as these were easily accessible and concealed.

They also used modern inventions and weaponry such as explosives, gyroscope lanterns and flintlock rifles.

豆 腐 田 楽

Tofu Den gaku

Dengaku refers to food that has been miso glazed and grilled. But for this local favourite, it is also inspired by the Dengaku dance that was performed during the Heian and Muromachi Period by Dengaku priests as the miso tofu on their sticks resembled the priests dancing on their stilts. This seasonal treat used to be eaten during the New Year and spring season when homemade miso balls were hung up for aging and then glazed on tofu which was then grilled on a stick over a charcoal fire.

The miso gives the firm tofu a rich, umami flavour that fills your mouth with every heartwarming bite.

屋 敷 刀 隠 し

上 野 城 と 夏

Nin ja Facts

#06 Jōnin (上忍, upper ninja) Highest rank, represented the group and hired out mercenaries.

Chūnin (中忍, middle ninja) Assistants to the jōnin.

Genin (下忍, lower ninja) Field agents from the lower class who carried out actual missions.

伊 賀 上 野 城

上 野 城 と 冬

Iga Ueno Castle The famous Hakuhō-jō (白鳳城, White Phoenix Castle) stands tall next to the Ninja MUSEUM of Igaryu. Built in the latter half of the 16th Century by Tsutsui Sadatsugu, the castle served as the seat of local lords during the Edo Period and was partially destroyed in a storm some 50 years later. Unlike many other Japanese castles which were reconstructed with concrete in the 20 th century, Ueno Castle was rebuilt using only wood, retaining its original look and atmosphere both inside and out. The castle also has the tallest stone walls in Japan. Located on the western side, they tower overhead at an impressive 29.7 metres.

There is also a museum inside the castle which has detailed exhibits on the castle’s history.

伊 賀 牛

These cattle have been raised in Iga since the early Showa Period.

Considered to be of the same quality as Matsusaka, Kobe or Yonezawa beef – which are considered Japan’s top ranking wagyu – it is consumed mostly in Iga, making it hard to find elsewhere. Iga ninja were said to have eaten dried beef as part of their non-perishable rations during the Sengoku Period. Using only Tajima decedent Kuroge Washu (黒毛和種, Japanese Black), the meat is best known for its well-marbled, tender texture, melt-in-your-mouth fat and meaty aroma.

Access: 10 min. walk north of Uenoshi Station Address: 106 Ueno Marunouchi, Iga-shi, Mie Prefecture, 〒518-0873 Admission fee(s): ¥500 Closed from Dec 29 - 31

Shop name: Kanaya (金谷) Access: Roughly 5 min. walk from Hirokōji Station Address: 434 Ueno nōninmachi, Iga-shi, Mie Prefecture, 〒518-0831 Closed on Mondays and National holidays, opening hours 11am - 9pm gansoiganiku-kanaya.co.jp Nin ja Facts

#07

赤 目 四 十 八 滝

Iga G yÛ

Ninjas tended to specialise in one particular skill and had specific roles such as chōhō (spy), teistasu (scout), kishu (surprise attacker), konran (agitator).

Akame Shi Jū Hachi Taki The Akame Shi Jū Hachi Taki is the collective name for a string of waterfalls that flow through the district. This deep ravine is said to have been chosen by the Iga ninja as a training ground due to its large terrain, strategic location and natural training environment. Set amongst lush greenery surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear streams, this hiking route is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience what life must have been like for ninjas in the Sengoku Period. The falls are also home to peaceful giant salamanders which are a protected species and registered as Natural Monuments of Japan.

Address: 861-1 Nagasaka, Akame-cho, Nabari-shi, Mie Prefecture, 〒518-0469 Admission fee(s): ¥400 Closed from Dec 29 - Jan 3 akame48taki.com

愛 知 Performing on stage at the airport.

Astonishing Aichi Situated in the centre of Japan, this prefecture’s picturesque landscape is made up of mountains, plains, hills and the Mikawa Bay area.

nInJa Spot

中 部 国 際 空 港

Chubu Centrair International Airport The year is 1582, Tokugawa Ieyasu is in danger of attack so he hires Hattori Hanzo and his ninja to help him escape from his enemies. Or at least that’s how the story goes.

味 噌 煮 込 み う ど ん

Clad in clandestine black robes with subtle yet striking motifs, Hattori Hanzo and the Ninjas can be spotted welcoming guests at Chubu Centrair International Airport or Nagoya Castle. A part of Aichi Prefecture’s “Samurai Tourism” campaign, the team is made up of seven ninja including a glib-tongued kunoichi, a western import and Hattori Hanzo himself. If you catch a glimpse of them, be sure to snap a photo before they disappear into thin smoke.

Miso Nikomi Udon

During the Sengoku period, daimyo Takeda Shingen’s men ate hoto noodles as part of their battle rations.

These noodles would eventually become a rustic Nagoya specialty known as miso udon noodle soup. The dish is made with thick, chewy wheat udon noodles simmered in a savoury miso broth and various ingredients such as aburaage (fried tofu), kamaboko (fish cake), chicken and green onions. The clear broth is made from a combination of miso paste and dashi stock, shiitake mushrooms, konbu and other ingredients. While the miso paste used in regular miso nikomi udon may be either white miso paste, red miso paste or awase miso, which is a combination of both; in Nagoya, they use haccho miso which is a salty red miso past.

Another unique feature of the prefecture’s miso nikomi udon is it that it is usually a single serving prepared and presented in a small earthen pot.

Shop name: Yamamotoya Sohonke (山本屋総本家 本家) Access: Roughly 10 min. walk from Sakae Station Address: 3-12-19 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi Prefecture, 〒460-0008 yamamotoya.co.jp

What do you love most about your job? One of the best parts

Interview with a Western Born Ninja 天

of this job is how diverse it is!

We are always doing something unique and exciting! On weekends we visit the airport to welcome anyone flying via the Chubu Centrair International Airport.

What inspired your interest to become a ninja? When I was around 3 years old, I watched cartoons about ninja and they inspired me to start training in the martial arts. I loved those shows; they lit the fire of my passion for Japan. Around 7 or 8, I started getting really serious about the martial arts. Instead of just watching cartoons and anime, I started reading about the historical aspects of samurai and ninja. I found the reality of ninja even more fascinating than the fictional ninja I watched on TV and in the movies.

What is the most important thing to you about being a ninja? Ninja constantly aim to attain shōshin (正心, right mind).

To have a right mind or right way of thinking was very important to ninja of the past, and it is very important to me today. Whenever I feel conflicted about something, I try to focus on doing what is right, and living the best way of life that I can. This is the most important thing for me as a ninja.

Chris O’Neill a.k.a. Sora,

a member of Hattori Hanzo and the Ninjas An avid world explorer born in the west, Chris has lived in the USA, France, England, Hong Kong and Japan. Before joining the Hattori Hanzo Ninja team and becoming an official ninja, he was exploring South America. He feels that he is a martial artist at the core of his being and enjoys studying philosophy, playing 14

| WAttention Singapore

games and making friends. He holds the honourable title of being Japan’s first salaried foreign ninja.

For more about Sora, and Hattori Hanzo and the Ninjas, visit their official website at ninja-japan.com/en

West side of Nagoya Castle

天 守 閣西 と南 隅 櫓

名 古 屋 城

天 守 閣 と 桜

Nagoya Castle

Built in 1612 by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nagoya Castle is one of the largest castles in the country. It was almost completely destroyed by US air raids in World War II. Most of the buildings including the main and small castle keeps and the Honmaru Palace were burned down. The castle has been undergoing reconstruction since 1959. The castle contains a modern museum with exhibits about the castle's history as well as

Front of Nagoya Castle in Spring

observatory spots where you can watch the reconstruction as it happens. A gorgeous backdrop during the sakura season, the castle is scheduled to be completed by spring 2018.

金 鯱 雄

lls o r c s a j Nin

Want to delve deeper into the world of ninja?

Here are some books you should check out.

Ninja: 1,000 Years of the Shadow Warrior Author: John Man Written by British historian John Man, this book is an intriguing and entertaining blend of mythology, anthropology, travelogue and history about Japan’s legendary shadow warriors.

In Search of the Nin ja: The Historical Truth of Nin jut su Author: Anthony Cummins Based on new translations of ninja scrolls and other authentic documents, this book dispels popular myths, provides insights to unanswered questions and connections to ancient Chinese manuals, lost skills and more.

Nin jut su: History and Tradition Author: Masaaki Hatsumi This best-seller is the only book on ninjutusu written by Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, the 34th generation leader of the Tokagureryu ninjutsu tradition, filled with training and fighting secrets, and ninja history and culture.

Access: 25 min. bus ride from Nagoya Station by the Meguru tourist loop bus service Address: 1-1 Hommaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi Prefecture, 〒460-0031 Closed from Dec 29 - Jan 1, opening hours 9am – 4.30pm Admission fee(s): ¥500 www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp Nin ja Facts

#08

Starting in 2016, 22 February will be known as Ninja Day in Japan. It is a play on the number “two” being pronounced as “ni”. nd

Nin ja Facts

#09

ひ つ ま ぶ し

Ninja more often served the role of informants than assassins.

Hisumabushi

Contrary to popular belief, Aichi is actually Japan’s top 2 producer of eel and home to their unique interpretation of the nation’s beloved unadon known as histumabushi. However, unlike unadon, hitsumabushi is served in a much different manner – usually with a torizara (serving dish), yakumi (condiments) and tea or dashi (soup stock). Another difference between the unadon and hitsumabushi is that the former is normally served with a large, slice of eel while the latter is served with finely chopped eel instead.

Hitsumabushi is best enjoyed in four stages. First, split your serving into four portions. Next place one portion into the torizara and enjoy the original flavours of the unadon. When you are done, add another portion to the torizara and add yakumi to bring out the different flavours of the unagi and rice. Repeat with another serving but this time add tea or dashi instead.

Lastly, savour the final portion whichever way you like.

Shop name: Atsuta Horaiken - Main Restaurant (あつた蓬莱軒 本店) Access: 7 min. walk from Tenma-cho Station Address: 503 Godo-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi Prefecture, 〒456-0043 Closed Wed and 2nd and 4th Thurs of the month (except National Holiday) houraiken.com

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

nInJa Spot

江 戸 ワ ン ダ ｜ ラ ン ド 日 光 江 戸 村

Rediscover the charm of the Edo Period at this self-contained historical wonderland. Located north from Tokyo, on the edges of the mountain range, the theme park is divided into five areas, Kaido (Road to Edo), Shukuba-machi (Inn Town), Shokagai (Market District), Buke-yashiki (Samurai Residence) and Ninja no Sato (Ninja village). There are various ninja-themed performances and attractions such as the Grand Ninja Theatre, Ninja Karasu Yashiki, Kai Kai Ninja House and Karakuri Ninja Maze. You can also visit the Shuriken Dojo and master the art of the throwing stars or play Kazaguruma Darts and win some amazing prizes.

Access: Roughly 15 min. bus ride from Kinugawa-Onsen Station Address: 470-2 Karakura, Nikkō-shi, Tochigi Prefecture, 〒321-2524 Admission fee(s): Adults ¥4,700, children ¥2,400 edowonderland.net/en/

戸 隠 流 忍 法 資 料 館

Togakure Nin po Museum

Located next to Chibiko Ninja Mura, is the Togakure Ninpo Museum where you will find over 800 years’ worth of Togakure School of Ninpo history available for your viewing pleasure. The museum houses authentic ninja weapons and tools such as spiked-climbing rings, shuriken and arrows, and rare photos such as the one contributed by the school’s 34th Togakure Master, Masaaki Hatsumi. It also showcases various ninjustu techniques, books and scrolls. The museum itself is a restored village house and consists of multiple buildings just across the entrance to the Upper Togakure Shrine.

While you are there you can also drop by the Museum of Togakushi Folklore which has over 2,000 everyday items from the Edo period.

Access: 60 min. bus ride (No. 70 or 71) from Nagano Station towards Togakushi. Alight at Togakushi-Chusha bus stop.

Address: 3688-12, Togakushi, Nagano-shi, Nagano Prefecture, 〒381-4101 Admission fee(s): from ¥600 Closed from 24 Nov - 22 Apr, opening hours 9am - 5pm togakushi-ninja.com

Attractions Across Japan

日 本

Ninja can be found all over Japan, so here are some places to start looking for them!

nInJa Spot

nInJa Spot

Nin ja Akasaka

ニ ン ジ ャ

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an aged Japanese castle and explore winding corridors at this ninja-themed restaurant. Here 内 black-clad ninjas will sneak up on 部 you at every opportunity – to usher you around, show you the menu or bring your food. They offer a variety of ala carte dishes and course menus such as the limited availability Smile Course and Kid’s Plate for children under seven. And while children between the ages 4-14 are welcomed at the restaurant, they recommend going in before 7pm for their enjoyment and safety.

ア カ サ カ

If you are in Kyoto be sure to drop by Ninja Kyoto which offers a similar themed experience despite being run by a different establishment.

Access: 3 min. walk from Akasaka-mitsuke Station Address: 2-14-3 Tokyo Plaza Akasaka 1F, Nagata-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 〒100- 0014 nInJa ninjaakasaka.com

時代アカデミー

Jidai Academy

サ ム ラ イ & 忍 者 サ フ ァ リ

Samurai and Nin ja Safari

This hour-long bus ride is equal parts theatrical show and interactive tour. It starts in Asakusa with the onboard bilingual host introducing the district’s many sights as you ride around the city. Along the way, samurai and ninja will appear on the street and begin an intense, highly entertaining battle that will end with the duo on the bus for some photos with the passengers. This oneof-a-kind, state-of-theart bus has a gorgeous wooden interior and outside-facing seats so you can enjoy a smooth, moving panoramic view of the city as you learn more about its hidden gems, history and the show.

Admission fee(s): from ¥4,500 japanican.com

Spot

道 場

Really get into the spirit of all things ninja with a ninja class at the Jidai Academy. It is led by the Musashi Clan, whose roots go back to the Tokugawa Shogunate era. At the academy, visitors can learn more about the clan’s history as well as participate in various programs including a Samurai Experience and Hands-on Ninja Experience. For the latter, participants can choose from two different courses which last 90 or 120 minutes and includes activities such as mediation and kujikiri, shuriken and blow dart practice, and photo taking. Naturally, all these will be done while you are decked out in full ninja gear. Participants must be above 12 years of age and children 5-11 must be accompanied by a participating parent.

Access: 4 min. walk from Tabata Station Address: 3-5-6 Tabata, 3 Kita-ku, Tokyo, 〒114-0014 musashi.ninja

16

| WAttention Singapore

Contrary to common belief, Ninjutsu is not the official martial art of the ninja.

おわり

Nin ja Facts

#10

nInJa Spot

忍 者 手 裏 剣

チ ビ ッ 子 忍 者 村

nInJa Spot

手 裏 剣 道 場 新 宿 忍 者 か ら く り 屋 敷

Nin ja Trick House in Tok yo At this interactive karakuri yashiki (trick house), children and adults alike can experience the mystical world of ninjas.

Discover all the secrets the ninja house has to hold, such as hidden rooms, tatami mat shields and umbrella swords.

You can also master the art of shuriken throwing, learn how to wield a (replica) ninjato (ninja sword), learn the difference between samurai and ninja and experience some unexpected surprises too. Located on the fourth floor of 1st Wako Building in Kabukicho, the space is small and intimate, so only groups of 12 or smaller are allowed to participate at a time. Each tour takes around half an hour to complete.

Access: 5 min. walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station Address: 2-28-13 Daichi Wako Building 4F, Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 〒160-0021 Admission fee(s): from ¥1,000 ninja-trick-house.com/en

Nin ja Facts

#11

The word kunoichi (くノ一, female ninja) is said to have been derived from the kanji character for woman (女, onna).

© Japanexperterna.se

TOEI K yoto Studio Park

Home of the legendary Togakure Ninja School, this small theme park is set in a forest on Mt. Tokagushi.

The school is filled with obstacle courses and jungle gyms that offer adults and children an enjoyable day of full hands-on experiences. Explore the ninja house labyrinths, try blow dart and shuriken shooting or visit the Togakure Ninpo Museum. If you get hungry, drop by the restaurant and check out their ninjathemed sweets. You can also dress up as ninjas for the day or buy your own costume to take home.

Access: 60 min. bus ride (No. 70 or 71) from Nagano Station towards Togakushi. Alight at Togakushi-Chusha bus stop.

Address: 3193 Togakushi, Nagano-shi, Nagano Prefecture, 〒381-4101 Closed on Thursdays and from 24 Nov - 21 Nov Admission fee(s): From ¥450 ninjamura.com/English

忍 者 か ら く り

忍 者 ハ ッ ト リ く ん 電 車

天 涯

© Maksym Grinenko on wikipedia

Chibiko Nin ja Mura

東 映 太 秦 映 画 村

nInJa Spot

Nin ja Hat tori-kun Train

© foooomio/flickr

Take in all the sights Toyama Prefecture has to offer when you hop on board the “Ninja Hattori-kun Train”. Designed based on Motoo Abiko’s famous manga and anime series, the train features decals both inside and outside the train.

The train station announcements are even done in the voice of Ninja Hattori-kun himself! The train runs along the Johana and Himi lines which passes famous Toyama spots such as the Great Buddha of Takaoka, the Nami Tulip Fair, World Heritage site Gokayama and the Tateyama Alps. However, as the train runs just like a regular train, there is no way to © D - s - yama ascertain if it will be the train you are taking until you see it at the station. www.jr-odekake.net/navi/hattorikun

Step back in time in this unique two-in-one film set and theme park.

Designed to look like a small town from the Edo Period, the park features entire old-timey streets, a replica of the old Nihonbashi Bridge, a traditional court house, a Meiji Period police box and part of the former Yoshiwara red light district. These are occasionally used as sets for filming period dramas and movies. Ninja are a common sight here as visitors can rent or buy their own ninja costume and roam the town exploring its many sights and activities. Catch "The Clash of Ninjas! The Ninja Show, SASUKE”, escape from 3D Maze The Ninja Fort or take part in the Iga-ryu Shuriken throwing high-score contest.

Access: 15 min. walk from JR Hanazono Satation Address: 10 Uzumasa Higashihachioka-cho, Ukyō-ku, Kyoto, 〒616-8161 Admission fee(s): ¥2,200 toei-eigamura.com/en

演 劇

© Ia

n A rm

s trong / flick r

Awesome Side Trips from Tokyo

Oku-Nikko Oku-Nikko

Tobu Nikko Station is about 2 hours away

by Tobu Railway

Tobu Nikko Station

Packed with World Heritage sites, Nikko has already cemented its status as a popular tourists’ destination. But there is a lot more to Nikko than just national treasures. An abundance of breathtaking nature and fun activities await the intrepid traveller.

The NIKKO All AREA PASS allows you to be both adventurous and savvy, as you can ride trains and buses in Nikko for four days, exploring all the destinations you like. Dare to go off and beyond the beaten track and discover your favourite “new” Nikko spots!

Kinugawa Onsen Station

Shimo-imaichi Station

Ibaraki Prefecture

Saitama Prefecture

Tokyo

TOKYO SKYTREE Station

Asakusa Station Kanagawa Prefecture

Haneda Airport Chiba Prefecture

Narita Airport

Fall

Take a breath of nature discover lakes, waterfalls and highlands

Tochigi Prefecture

Gunma Prefecture

Spring

1

Not to be Missed Secret Locations

Nature’s Wonder

Kegon Waterfall

Kegon Waterfall, with an impressive drop of 97 metres, is the most famous falls amongst the many in Nikko. Known as one of Japan’s three greatest falls, Kegon is surrounded by scenery that will leave you in awe. For a close-up encounter with a view of the dynamic water cascade, take the elevator down to the viewing observatory.

3

A Splash of Beauty

Ryuzu Waterfall

Ryuzu, translated as “Dragon’s Head” in Japanese, is a powerful waterfall upstream of Mount Nantai. In the summer, lush green leaves and pink azaleas decorate the falls and in autumn, brilliant foliage paints the background in striking red hues.

ste Palate Enjoyment for Your Ta

Ryuzu Chaya 2

Take a front row seat and watch the water flowing down the vertical drop at full power from this nostalgic tea house. Ozoni, a soup containing fried mochi, and dango, a Japanese dessert made from mochi rice, are popular menu choices. The coffee shop next door also offers traditional sweets and matcha set.

Bio-Paradise

Senjogahara

This four square kilometre marshland in the highlands of Nikko National Park is home to 350 species of animals and plants. Regularly maintained hiking trails connect many of the attractions. June to August is the best time to visit as everywhere you look, flowers of all shapes, colours and sizes are in full abundance.

Hours: 9am - 5pm (hours differ by season) Address: 2485 Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Ozoni (Japanese soup with rice cakes)is very popular at Ryuzu Chaya.

Flowers Oku-Nikko’s Blooming

18

Azalea

Japanese Thistle

Tiger Lily

Azaleas around Mount Nantai and Chuzenji bloom in May and June. These flowering shrubs come in pink shades that add softness to the atmosphere.

Gorgeous violet thistles often appear in July around Odashirogahara, an area west of Senjogahara.

A symbol of summer, it derives its name from its resemblance to lily and the fact that the flower lasts only one day. The best viewing season is from late June to early July.

| WAttention Singapore

A PASS NIKKO ALL ARE inerar y 3-day/2-night it Day 1

Asakusa Station

TOKYO SKYTREE Station

Tobu Railway Limited Express SPACIA

Tobu Railway Limited Express SPACIA

Shimo-imaichi Station Tobu Railway

Tobu Nikko Station is only 2 hours away from Asakusa Station

by Limited Express SPACIA

Tobu Nikko Station

37 minutes by Tobu bus to Akechidaira bus stop.

Akechidaira observatory is 5 minutes away by ropeway.

Akechidaira Observatory

5 minutes by Tobu bus to Chuzenji Onsen bus stop. Walk for 5 minutes.

1

2

Panoramic Beauty

Fare: ¥1,250 (adults), ¥630 (children) Hours: 9am - 5pm Address: 2478-21 Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Stop for 2-3 hours

Senjogahara

6 minutes by Tobu bus from Akanuma bus stop to Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel

Lake Chuzenji Boat Tour Lake Chuzenji, located in Nikko National Park, is a scenic wonder. To appreciate its full beauty, visitors are urged to take the 60-minute boat tour, which has different routes with spectacular views. The boat ride is relatively smooth so there is no need to worry about motion sickness.

A great place to have lunch

28 minutes by Tobu bus to Yutaki bus stop.

Photo Credit: Nkko Natural Science Museum

4

Kegon Waterfall

Accommodation

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel

More fun!

3 minutes by Tobu bus to Ryuzunotaki

Day 2 3

Stay at Nikko Astraea Hotel and take part in snow activities Stop for 40 minutes

Ryuzu Waterfall

Walk 10-15 minutes to Shobugahama boat tour station

4

Lake Chuzenji boat ride

Get off at Lake Chuzenji Station

Take a stroll around Lake Chuzenji

Power Spot

5

Get some souvenir and lunch

1 minute by Tobu bus from boat tour bus stop to Tachiki Kannon Entrance bus stop

Find Your Nirvana

Chuzenji Temple and Tachiki Kannon Statue

Chuzenji is a famous “power spot” affiliated with Rinnoji, one of Nikko’s most important temples. A standing statue of Kannon — called Tachiki Kannon in Japanese — is enshrined in the main hall. It is said that the founder of Chuzenji carved the statue out of a tree which is still rooted in the ground today.

Entrance fee: ¥500 (adults), ¥200 (elementary and middle school students) Hours: 8am - 5pm (April-August), 8am - 4pm (November and March), 8.30am - 3.30pm (December- February) Address: 2578 Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Natural Wild Springs

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel Tucked in the secluded highlands, this hotel is a must visit for anyone seeking a piece of tranquility. All rooms feature an outdoor deck with an amazing view of natural beauty. Guests can also enjoy an exquisite view of Lake Chuzenji while dining at the hotel restaurant.

The coffee house is only about four minutes away on foot and its curry rice recipe dates to the Taisho Period (1912-1926).

Address: 2482 Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

5

Tachiki Kannon

8 minutes by Tobu bus to Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel bus stop (take the taxi in winter)

Stop for 40 minutes

Accommodation

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel Day 3

45 minutes by Tobu bus to Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park bus stop The bus is a

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park Walk for 15 minutes

Stop for 1 hour

convenient and cheap way to visit world cultural heritage sites and Monzenmachi

Take a stroll at world cultural heritage sites Rinnoji Temple, Toshogu and Futarasan Shrine

Walk for 15 minutes

Take a stroll at Monzenmachi area Walk for 15 minutes

Lunch at Meiji-no-Yakata

Tobu Nikko Station Tobu Railway

Shimo-imaichi Station

Tobu Railway Limited Express SPACIA

TOKYO SKYTREE Station

Tobu Railway Limited Express SPACIA

Asakusa Station

Stay for one more night with Nikko All Area Pass

Awesome Side Trips from Tokyo

Oku-Nikko

Winter

Fantasy World in Oku-Nikko

Every winter, when heavy snow falls in Oku-Nikko, the town is transformed into a white wonderland. Extending before your eyes are snowcapped mountains, frozen lakes and crystal clear ice. Oku-Nikko, known for quality powdered snow and its relative proximity to Tokyo, attracts tens of thousands of skiers from abroad every year.

y Winter scener ira from Akechida observatory

Ryuzu Waterfall in winter

True Luxury

Outdoor Hot Springs

A trip to Nikko would not be complete without a dip in an open-air hot spring. The Nikko area is home to Ready, Set, Go! Kinugawa Onsen, Yunishigawa Onsen and Yumoto Onsen. Hot springs can be enjoyed throughout the year, but many Kotoku Farm, located next to the Nikko Astraea visitors say the Hotel, offers cross country skiing options for ski- best season is ers of all kinds, especially those who are interested winter, when in exploring snow-covered you can watch highlands and forests. The courses, ranging from the falling 1-10 kilometres, take you into the wilds of nature snow while by way of winding, less traveled paths. warming up in the bath.

Cross-country Skiing

odation Recommended Accomm

Ski Away

Nikko Yumoto Ski Resort On a clear day, you can catch a bird’s eye view of Lake Yunoko from the ski area. There are four courses, of which three are especially designed for beginners and less confident skiers. If you are traveling with small kids, they are sure to have a blast at the children’s play area.

Nikko Astraea Hotel

Surrounded by rich forest and the gorgeous landscape of Nikko National Park, this wellknown resort hotel offers an escape from the ordinary. An open-air hot spring, tasty cuisine and cross country skiing excursions are all included in the package.

Special Discount

Best Deal Ever!

Address: Kotoku Onsen, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture Website: www.nikkoastraea.com/en Show this magazine or a picture of this page to receive: 1. 10% discount for one-day lift ticket at Nikko Yumoto Ski Resort 2. 10% discount for onsen at Nikko Astraea Hotel and goods purchased at its gift shop

Tobu Railway offers three kinds of Nikko passes that you can choose based on your preferences. During the valid period, pass holders can get on and off Tobu Railway and Tobu bus lines as desired. Travel with Tobu for the best deal!

Nikko All Area Pass Valid Section Taiyuin Futarasan jinja mae Yumoto Onsen Kotoku Onsen Chuzenji Onsen Rengeishi Hangetsusan

(bus service during Okuhosoo certain period)

Tachiki Kannon-mae

(bus service during certain period)

Nishisando Yashionoyu

Ozasa Bokujou

(no bus service in winter)

Kirifuri kougen

(Kirifuri Waterfall in winter)

Nikko Kirifuri Skating Center

Tobu Tobu Nikko Station Nikko Tobu Bus JR Nikko Tobu Railway Station

● Fare: ¥4,520 (April-November) ¥4,150 (December-March)

●Tobu Railway Valid Section: Asakusaー Shimo-imaichi Kinugawa-onsen Station (one round trip ride), Shimo-imaichiーTobu Nikko / Shimo-imaichi Kinugawa Onsen (Shinfujiwara) Tochigi

(bus service only in winter)

Omote sando

NIKKO ALL AREA PASS

Shinfujiwara

TOKYO SKYTREE Asakusa

●Valid Period: 4 Days

Theme Park Pass & Nikko City Area Pass

Kinugawa Onsen

●Fare: Theme Park & Nikko City Area Pass ¥8,010 (Edo Wonderland and Tobu World Square) Tobu World Square & Nikko City Area Pass ¥4,710 (Tobu World Square) Edo Wonderland & Nikko City Area Pass ¥6,610 (Edo Wonderland)

●Tobu Railway Valid Section: AsakusaーShimo-imaichi Station (one round trip ride), Shimo-imaichi ー Tobu Nikko / Kinugawa Onsen(Shinfujiwara)

Tobu Bus Valid Section: Kinugawa Onsen ー Tobu World Square ー Edo Wonderland, World Heritage Sightseeing Bus, JR Nikko Station / Tobu Nikko Station ー Rengeishi ●Admission: Tobu World Square and Edo Wonderland (different admission prices) For more information, ●Valid Period: 2 Days

20

| WAttention Singapore

please visit the Tobu Railway website

NIKKO CITY AREA PASS ● Fare: ¥2,670

World Heritage Sightseeing Bus

●Tobu Railway Valid Section: Asakusaー Shimo-imaichi Station (one round trip ride) Shimo-imaichi ー Tobu Nikko / Kinugawa Onsen (Shinfujiwara) ●Tobu Bus Valid Section: JR Nikko Station / Tobu Nikko Station ー Rengeishi and World Heritage Sightseeing Bus ●Valid Period: 2 Days

More Fun! Tobu World Square

Edo Wonderland

Visit Kinugawa Onsen for more surprises!

Why not spend a night at Kinugawa Onsen and discover Japan through visits to theme parks in the area? Tobu World Square houses reproductions of worldfamous buildings and historical architecture on a 1/25 scale. Edo Wonderland, or Nikko Edomura in Japanese, is a history theme park reminiscent of the Edo Period (1603-1868) and offers visitors the chance to dress up in traditional Japanese kimonos. www.tobu.co.jp/foreign/en/sightseeing/nikko_kinugawa

Eye-opening Experience

Stroll around

鬼 怒

川

There is much more to see in Nikko than shrines and temples.

Absolutely worth a visit,鬼怒川 for example, is Monzenmachi, a 新藤原站 century-old temple town. Get a taste of local cuisine and a true sense of Nikko’s unique spirit! 線

2

Meiji-noYakata

This stone cottage, built by an American merchant trader during the Meiji Period (1868-1912), houses the Meiji-no-Yakata restaurant, which serves Western-style Japanese cuisine developed in the 19th century.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Hours: 11am - 7.30pm (Spring, summer and fall), 11.30am - 7.30pm (Winter) Address: 2339-1 Yamauchi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Mount Nikko area

Rinnoji Temple

Futarasan Shrine

1

Toshogu 日光山區域Shrine Rinnoji Temple

Tobu Nikko Station

7

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Admission: ¥510 (high school students, adults) ¥250 (middle and5elementary school students) 8 9am - 5pm (April-October, ticket counter Hours: closes at 4pm), 9am - 4.30pm (November-March, ticket counter closes at 4pm). Closed on Tuesdays and New Year’s Day. 9 Address: 8-27 Honcho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi

Nikkobashi Bridge JR Nikko Station Kamibashi Bridge 3

6

3 Beyond Taste Buds

History before Your Eyes

Built in 1899, this villa served as the summer residence of Emperor Taisho until 1925. In 2000, the beautifully restored mansion opened its doors to the public. With a 39,390 square metre garden and 106 guest rooms, the structure stands as the largest wooden architecture in Japan.

1 Travel Back in Time

Nikko Yuba Rolls at Zen

武

Monzenmachi

東

Must-eats and dos

4

下今市站

Kamibashi Bridge

Kinugawa Enlarged view of Ozasa Farm Zen specializes in Yumoto Onsen Onsen "Monzenmachi" creative dishes made Station Kirifuri using yuba, or tofu Highland Tobu 上今市站 東武 skin in Japanese. Yuba, World 日光 Edo Square rich in protein, low in 線 Wonderland cholesterol and mild Sanbonmatsu Kinugawa JR Mount Senjogahara in flavour, has been 日光站 Nikko Mount Nantai loved by Japanese people as a health food Kogen Nishisando Ryuzu Waterfall Waterfall for centuries. While you are here, try their 中禪寺湖 yuba dessert, which has a perfect balance of Chuzenji Daiichi Irohazaka Kinugawa 2 Tobu Nikko Station TobuRailway sweetness and softness.

Lake Chuzenji Onsen

Hours: 10am - 10pm (April-November), 10am - 7pm (December-March) Closed on Tuesdays Address: 1007 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Nikko Natural Science Museum Daini Irohazaka

5

4 Too Cute to Eat

Monkey Ningyoyaki at Mishimaya Ningyoyaki is a traditional Japanese confectionery with sweet, red bean paste filling. Mishimaya sells their ningyoyaki in the shape of “the three wise monkeys,” which embodies the famous proverb “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” To give the cake its fluffy, light texture, the shop only uses the best ingredients.

Hours: 9am - 5pm Closed on Thursdays.

Address: 440 Ishiyacho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

7 Japanese for a Day

Utakata Kimono Rental Change into an elegant kimono and take a stroll in the old neighborhood to get a taste of what it was like to live in medieval Japan. To give foreign travelers the memory of a lifetime, Utakata Kimono Rental offers a wide range of designs and sizes for men, women and children.

Price: Basic plan ¥3,800 (excluding tax) Hours: 10am - 5.30pm Address: 918 Nakahatsuishicho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Akechidaira Ropeway

Tobu Nikko Railway

Tokyo

8

9

5 Shimo-imaichi Station

Purr-fect

Nemuri-neko at Nikko Okaki Factory Nemuri-neko, or sleeping cat in Japanese, is a famous wood carving piece at Toshogu Shrine. This nemuri-neko tin comes with three different flavours of crispy, light rice crackers that will have you quickly coming back for more.

6

W hich one is cuter?

The real o? nemu ri-nek

Hours: 8am - 6.30pm Closed on New Year’s Day Address: 914 Nakahatsuishicho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Nikko Okaki Nemuri-neko

Brewed Goodness

Katayama Shuzo

Yokan at Mitsuyama This long-established confectionery shop insists on using natural spring water and top quality kanten, a jelly-like substance made from seaweed, to give their yokan a smooth and rich texture.

Their yokan comes in different flavours and sizes and is a great souvenir to bring home from Nikko.

Hours: 9am - 5.30pm Address: 1989-1 Serinuma, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

8

Dessert Time

9

Perfect Summer Treat

Shougetsu Himuro

Soft water from 16 metres below ground, traditional distilling techniques and an original mix of yeast come together to give unrivaled flavour to the line of sakes produced at Katayama Brewery. Visitors can reserve a private tour and enjoy free tastings.

This is an authentic cultural experience that you will not want to miss!

This mouthwatering shaved ice dessert is made of natural ice blocks formed during Nikko’s frozen winters. It is light, airy and melts instantly in the mouth, just like fresh snow. No wonder there is always a long line to get in!

Hours: 8am - 6pm Address: 146-2 Segawa, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

Hours: 8am - 8pm (hours change according to season). Shaved ice is served from11am - 6pm Address: 379 Imaichi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi Prefecture

MAKE YOUR NEXT DESTINATION

For everything you need to know about Japanese food, lifestyle, travel and more.

wattention.com.sg

Singapore Edition Read our digital copy online now at issuu.com/WAttention

Available on

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EXPLORE JAPAN WITH EASE

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E-mail: Singapore@sankeitourist.com.sg www.sankeitourist.com.sg

information!

For enquiry, call us at

6222 6600

伊賀 VOL.15 | SITE-SEEING

Writer’s profile: Youhei Iguchi — Works in Iga City

EXPLORE JAPAN’S PREFECTURE

Commerce Industry and Labour Section. Has fallen in love with Iga rice, beef and sake.

IGA CITY MIE

Michi no Eki Iga, 道の駅伊賀

Iga Railway, 伊賀鉄道

Mokumoku Tedukuri Farm, モクモク手作りファーム

Moritsuji, もりつぢ

IGA CITY – THE HOME OF NINJA Iga City is most famously known as the home of the Iga Ninja and is filled with various ninja-themed attractions. However, there is so much more to the city than just that.

Hop on board the trains of the Iga Railway (伊賀鉄道) and be delighted by the blue, pink or green ninja trains with their adorable ninja dolls that travel along famous Iga tourist destinations such as the Iga Museum and Ueno Castle

Iga-gyū shabu-shabu, 伊賀牛しゃぶしゃぶ

Kansai Area 関西地方

Kyoto

Shiga

京都

滋賀

Osaka 大阪

Iga City

Kansai International Airport

伊賀市

関西国際空港

Nara 奈良

.

Mie

If you are on a road trip, stop by Michi no Eki Iga (道の駅伊賀). It is a highway pitstop that sells local specialties and various ninja-themed souvenirs. It is a great place to pick up a gift for ninja fans

.

Wakayama

If you are interested in farms, stop by Mokumoku Tedukuri Farm (モクモク手作 りファーム) where you can visit farm animals, learn more about farming, stay overnight and soak in their outdoor onsen. Enjoy a nibble of their tasty sausages and a drink of their draft beer

. You can also visit Moritsuji

(もりつぢ) which rears and serves rare Iga-gyū (伊賀牛)

.

Visit around October and you can partake at the Ueno Tenjin Festival which showcases the Danjiri and Oni procession that is rich in history. You can even dress in colourful ninja costumes while you are there.

和歌山

三重

Kansai International Airport 1 terminal st

Osaka Uehonmachi Limousine bus 50 min ¥1,550 (S$19.32∼) Iga kanbe Osaka Uehonmachi Kintetsu Super Express (to Kintetsu Nagoya Station)

50 min ¥2,040 (S$25.43∼)

Ueno city(Iga line) Iga kanbe JR Kansai Main Line (Towards Kameyama) 25 min ¥360 (S$4.48∼)

WAttention Singapore |

23

JAPAN

VOL.6 | WINTER & E ARLY SPRING GUIDE

TRAVEL

PERFECT SEASONAL MOMENTS

& Beyond

Presented by

Hokkaido 北海道

With its unspoiled nature and abundance in fresh seafood, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands turns into a winter wonderland during this time of year — the perfect backdrop for JTB’s Hokkaido Furano Ski tour.

Asahiyama Zoo 旭山動物園

© Hokkaido Tourism Organization

A popular tourist attraction located just outside central Asahikawa, the zoo has specially built enclosures which allow visitors to observe the animals from multiple angles. The main attraction is the Penguin Parade, where you can catch king penguins languidly taking a stroll around the zoo after their meal.

Furano Ski 富良野スキー Ski enthusiasts rejoice! During winter, the entire region is blanketed in powdery snow and is renowned for the multiple long, groomed runs that cater to beginners and advanced skiers alike. After a day of skiing or snowboarding on the mountains, unwind with a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

Otaru Canal

© Yasufumi Nishi © JNTO

小 運河

Once a key part of the city’s busy port system, the canal has since been restored instead of being landfilled. During the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, the old warehouses and gas lamps along this canal are covered with small buoys which hold candles, making the area look dreamy and romantic.

Senganen Garden 仙巌園 This impeccably kept Japanese-style landscape garden once belonged to the powerful Shimazu Clan, and makes use of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay as borrowed scenery to create a picturesque sight. Since July 2015, it has been recognised as one of the World Cultural Heritage Sites related to Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.

Kyushu 九州 This island is home to seven regions, each with its own distinct character, as well as Japan’s most active volcano Mt. Aso. Enjoy the sight of blossoming sakura during JTB’s Spring Luxury in Kyushu tour!

© Kagoshima Prefectural Tourist Federation © JNTO

Maizuru Park 舞鶴公園 Founds around the ruins of Fukuoka Castle, this park is one of the best spots to view cherry blossoms in Fukuoka City. Some of the castle’s gates and turrets, also known as yagura (櫓), are preserved within the park, one of which has been named an important historical artifact.

24

| WAttention Singapore

©Kagoshima Prefectural Tourist Federation ©JNTO

Ibusuki Special Sand Bath 砂むし温泉

Experience an onsen unlike any other!

Bathers are buried in naturally heated sand, said to improve circulation and provide relief from arthritis and rheumatism. The sand baths are usually located close to the coastline, so bathers can lie back and relax to the sound of ocean waves.

THE WAY OF THE MEAT 肉道を究める

肉神 降臨！

Meat newest trends the

from Japan making their way to our shores. #1 culinaryization 最初は お店の味の ままで食べて みて∼

KEY WORD

To dig deeper into the latest industry

finding their way to Singapore, we sat down for a meat-to-meat with Suguru Ishida, a renowned expert in the Japanese meat scene.

The co-founder of Japanese BBQ restaurant reviewed more than 150 Yakiniku restaurants in Japan each year over 10 years and provided highly credible reviews online. Having published several books and contributed articles to different media channels based on their expertise, Mr. Ishida has since opened his very own store right here in Singapore!

26

| WAttention Singapore

〔肉の割烹化〕

The word kappō (割烹) is a culinary term which caught on in the Nara period from AD 710 to 794. Kappō mainly focuses on shokuji zentai no nagare (食事全体の流れ , the flow of the meal). Often, kappō-style establishments put great thought into planning out courses or set meals that will make the best eating experience for customers. Unlike kaiseki where the focus lies in presentation, service and food, kappō puts the most emphasis on the actual taste, aroma and texture of the food.

trends from Japan that are slowly but surely

Yakiniquest was initially part of a unit that

We inv ite you to try our store’s flavour u firs t when yo visit before your cu stomising on own! Find us P.2 9

KEY WORD

#2

〔赤身肉〕

Lean meat

Cuts containing significantly less fat and more red meat are becoming increasingly popular amongst the health conscious and those who prefer more bite in their meat instead of fats. One such cut is hire (ヒレ, fillet/ tenderloin), which is the softest part and makes up only 3% of the entire cow.

72% A 400

Chew on this

GRADE

4

of a cow’s body weight has to be certified edible in order for it to qualify as A-grade wagyu.

different breeds of wagyu — they are the Japanese Black, Japanese Brown/ Red, Shorthorn and Polled. Cross breeds resulting from the interbreeding of these four breeds are also considered wagyu.

95%

5kg

注意

POLLED/ MUKAKU

5%

KUROGE

is the maximum amount of wagyu that Singaporeans can bring back from Japan as the most delectable souvenir ever!

0.06% 30%

or 3,000 cattle, are certified as Kobe grade and consumed in Japan every year.

#3

KEY WORD

#4

that is the difference of mono unsaturated fat (the good fat!) in Wagyu to Angus cattle.

〔生肉〕

Raw meat

The raw meat boom that started in Tokyo continues to grow within the city and is expanding to the food scene in Singapore as well. Served raw or rare, the freshness and sweetness of wagyu can be enjoyed over warm sushi rice, as carpaccio or steak tartare.

#5

True meat connoisseurs will know that Ohmi beef (近

〔ドライエイジング〕

Dry aging

— that is how much higher the melting point for branded pork is compared to normal pork as its meat and fats are more firmly bound together.

Branded chickens have either one or both parents who are native and bred over a period of

80 days

When they reach 28 days of age, they are transferred to a larger coop and have more space to run around!

〔和牛ホルモン解禁〕

Unleashing horumon

Horumon (ホルモン), or offal, is a staple for the Japanese.

The term originated from the German word ‘hormon’, meaning hormone. Here in Singapore, we usually enjoy Chinese-style offal in kway chap or bak chor mee, so why not try some Japanese-style beef offal the next time you are at a yakiniku restaurant?

Branded Wagyu the three most recognised beef brands in Japan, known as Sandai Wagyu (三大和牛). There are over 200 types of branded wagyu in Japan, and an increasing number of independent producers are looking for ways to export their meat to countries including our own sunny island!

#7

KEY WORD

〔ブランド和牛〕

江牛), Kobe beef (神戸牛) and Matsusaka beef (松阪牛) are

KEY WORD

5°C

TA NT IMPOR TE O N E K A T

or more of wagyu are made up of Japanese Black, or Kuroge (黒毛). In fact, Kobe beef and Matsusaka beef are all Kuroge cattle.

Polled or Mukaku (無角) are extremely rare!

KEY WORD

is the numbers of estimated types of branded pork (銘柄の豚肉) in the whole of Japan, all differentiated by colour, fragrance, meat quality and characteristics.

KEY WORD

#6

〔銘柄の豚肉〕

Branded pork

Most of us have heard of branded beef, but branded pork has also started to make waves in Japan. Key differences between stock pigs and branded pigs lie in the breed and breeding method. Brands to watch include Kin agu pork (金アグー豚) from Okinawa and Hiraboku sangenton (平牧 三元豚) from Yamagata prefecture, which are coming to Singapore in limited quantities.

Hanging or storing whole sides or primal cuts of beef in temperatures just above freezing for 14 to 28 days allows enzymes to break down muscle tissue to make meat tender. Left to dehydrate, the concentration of the natural flavour in the meat is kicked up several notches too.

WAttention Singapore |

27

Yakinikuoh [焼肉王]

Relish in exclusive cuts and meaty goodness The brains and brawn that conquered the local food scene with 17 Washoku Goen outlets across Singapore is back with an affordable yakiniku restaurant which brings quality meat to consumers with absolutely no service charge. This cozy place brings in whole cattle; staff cut and prepare them on the spot so cost-

savings can be passed on to diners. Karubi (カルビ, short rib) and shio-tan (塩タン, tongue) start from $12 for a generous serving. Limited quantities of rare cuts such as kurashita (くら した, chuck) and mizushi (みずし, top blade) are available daily too.

Success does not come easy, and Managing Director Hisashi Matsumoto is no stranger to failure. In fact, he chose Singapore to start his F&B business knowing full well the challenges he would face in the notoriously competitive industry. Noticing that most yakiniku restaurants in Singapore had a higher price range, he opened Yakinikuou in early November this year, and sources his cattle direct from producers to provide customers with the best price points. Although Mr. Hisashi plays a managing role, he does not shy away from blunt work; much of the cutting and preparation of the raw meat is actually done by him!

Meat one of Singapore’s best value for money yakiniku restaurants — Top grade wagyu at zero service charge!

Managing Director

Hisashi Matsumoto

Lunch Yakiniku Rice Bowl Sirloin Tongue Short Rib

$16 $18 $12 $12

122 Telok Ayer Street | 6336-3366 Lunch: Mon-Fri 11am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) Dinner: Mon-Sat 5pm - 11pm (L.O. 10.15pm) Closed on Sun and PH washokugoen.com/yakinikuo Yakiniku-Oh

KEYWORD #1: KappÕ Style [(肉) 勝又]

Niku Katsumata Savour tasty Kagoshima wagyu grilled on a crystal plate Grilling meat just got more stylish. This meat-centric establishment is the first overseas outlet of Katsumata in Ebisu, Tokyo. Using Kagoshima wagyu with marbling of 3 to 4, the course meal comes with a variety of cuts like rump, rib, flank and fillet. Delicious cuts of meat are grilled by the staff on specially imported crystal grilling plates, which utilize infrared radiation to distribute low heat and retain moisture. Expert meat sommeliers stationed here will be able to suggest the best sake or wine pairings to go with the umami-rich meat too!

Say “WAttention” and get

FREE Uni maki (worth $22)

Niku Course Katsumata Course Ebisu Course

Yakiniquest [ヤキニクエスト]

Start your journey to meat greatness

Opened and managed by bona fide beef connoisseur and author of wagyu guide books Suguru Ishida, this authentic yakiniku house emphasizes on the quality of meat, grilling methods and tare (たれ , dipping sauce) to provide guests with an unforgettable culinary experience. The recommended omakase courses feature a variety of normal and rare cuts so guests can enjoy the different tastes and textures. The seasoning for the meat changes throughout the entire course meal and interesting beef dishes like niku sōmen (肉そ うめん, wagyu in noodle style) help to keep things interesting.

Omakase Course $98 Special Omakase Course $120

48 Boat Quay 6223-4129 Mon-Fri 6pm - 11pm Sat & Sun 5pm - 10pm yakiniquest.sg

$98 $128 $198

47 Duxton Road 9162-7502 Daily 5.30pm – 11pm niku-katsumata.com

KEYWORD #2: lean meat [銀座ライオン]

Ginza Lion

1-for-1

Indulge in hearty meat and ice-cold beer This casual restaurant dishes out party sets for easy sharing, making it a great place to dine and chill out with friends after a hard day’s work. The Roast Black Angus Beef here uses high quality meat cooked to juicy perfection using an infrared grill, which helps to retain moisture in the meat.

Roast Black Angus Beef when you reserve a table on Hungry Go Where until the end of December.

Roast Black Angus Beef (1 slice/100g) $14 (1 slice/200g) $28

Suntec #01-649, 6 Temasek Building 6836-6053 | Robertson Quay #01-01/02, 8 Rodyk Street 6634-9113 sapporolionsg.com.sg

Served with Japanese soy sauce and wasabi, the roast beef has an outer layer with a nice smoky flavour and soft, tender meat on the inside.

[れんがや]

Renga-ya Tuck into generous portions of quality Hokkaido beef Using carefully sourced ingredients from Japan, this casual yet classy diner serves up a hearty mix of A5 grade wagyu and Hokkaido beef platters that make for easy sharing.

The Renga-ya platter which includes their Charcoal BBQ Steak is a must-try for first-timers. Those looking out for their waistlines do not have to worry, as the place offers a variety of leaner cuts too. With the team at Renga-ya always looking for new ways to excite customers, the comprehensive menu is renewed from time to time and features seasonal seafood items imported from Tsukiji market and refreshing Strawberry Snow made with Hokkaido condensed milk.

Say WAttention and get

first drink free

*Valid until 31 Dec’16 *Not valid with other promotions

Chijmes #01-11/12 30 Victoria Street 6352-1966 | Mon-Sat 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm 11pm (L.O. 10.30pm) Sun 5pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm) rengaya.sg Renga-ya rengayasg

Renga-ya BBQ Platter (300g) $89 Hokkaido Prime Ribeye (200g) $59 Hokkaido Top Quality Beef Lunch Set $19

Taste the difference of Toriyama Umami Wagyu At TORIYAMA farm, 1,200 cows are hand-fed and carefully tended to in order to produce the finest wagyu.

Here is why you should choose Toriyama Umami Wagyu: Delicate balance of fats and lean meat with rich aroma.

Distinctive flavour and unforgettable taste.

Umami rich — only cattle with the highest umami scores are handpicked for export.

Buy it today at Huber’s Butchery and Bistro! ➡ P.36

umami-wagyu.com

[北海道酒場]

Hokkaido Izakaya Delightful Hokkaido dishes to feed your cravings This izakaya-style dining concept serves quality Hokkaido dishes using fresh produce imported from five cities in Hokkaido — Horokanai, Yakumo, Akkeshi, Furano and Kamishihoro. One of their bestsellers is the Roast Beef Don, a bowl of warm fluffy rice layered with thick succulent cuts of Hokkaido wagyu and topped with an onsen egg.

Burst the yolk and enjoy the juicy meat with their original wafu gravy sauce to bring out the umami of the beef. The Hokkaido Wagyu Steak is another signature dish perfect for the meat-lovers. For seafood fans, order the Akkeshi oysters, which are extremely meaty and known as the stars of the Hokkaido oyster world because of their rich, savoury taste.

Roast Beef Don Set Hokkaido Wagyu Steak

$19 $43

(only available at Tanjong Pagar outlet)

Hokkaido Party Set

Tanjong Pagar

Wisma Atria

95 Tanjong Pagar Road | 6221-7118 Mon-Sat 11.30am - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm) 6pm-12am (L.O. 11pm) Sun & Holidays 11.30am - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm) 6pm-10.30pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Wisma Atria #04-51, 435 Orchard Road 6262-3461 Mon-Fri 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5.30pm-10.30pm (L.O. 9pm) Sat, Sun & Holidays 11am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5pm-10.30pm (L.O. 9pm)

$58

Hokkaidoizakaya.sg Hokkaido Izakaya Singapore

KEYWORD #3: raw meat [銀座 串勝]

Ginza Kushi Katsu Take a bite of deliciously sinful beef cutlet One of Japan’s trendiest food hits Singapore — Gyūkatsu, or deep fried beef cutlet, is made by frying Australian beef fillet at a temperature of 210°C for only 60 seconds so that the crust is crispy while the meat remains medium rare within.

Gyu-Katsu Set (90g)

$24.80

2 Person Party Set $62.50 → $59.80 Say WAttention and get 30% OFF Asahi Beer with any rice/ramen set ordered.

The top grade Nozaki-gyū served here is pure Kagoshima-raised kuroge wagyu. The Nozaki farm measures and ensures that all beef has achieved a grade 4 or higher before shipping.

*Valid until 2 Jan’17

Paragon #B1-47, 290 Orchard Road 6262-1304 ¦ Daily 11.30am - 10pm ginzakushikatsu.com.sg

[平城苑]

Tokyo Yakiniku Enjoy both gyūkatsu and kushi katsu (串カツ, fried chicken or pork skewer) with the 2 Person Party Set, which comes with a personal hot plate so you can adjust the doneness of the meat!

Heijoen

Experience the uncompromising quality of delicious wagyu Beef connoisseurs rejoice! This wagyu restaurant has 24 outlets in Tokyo and is known to have strict standards in picking choice whole domestic cattle. The meat is aged to increase the concentration in taste. With the perfect meat to fat ratio, every slice is a perfect accompaniment to rice.

Deluxe Japanese Wagyu Sushi (2 pcs) $14 Heijoen Kalbi $22.90 Yakiniku Gozen Lunch $17.90

Wisma Atria #04-47, 435 Orchard Road 6262-3294 | Mon-Fri 11.30am - 3pm 5pm - 11pm Sat, Sun & PH 11am - 11pm japanfoodtown.sg/stores/yakiniku-heijoen2 WAttention Singapore |

31

KEYWORD #4: BRANDED WAGYU

[うしどき]

Ushidoki

Wagyu Kaiseki Enjoy a luxurious course using the best Ozaki wagyu Meticulously raised by Mr. Muneharu Ozaki in Miyazaki Prefecture, the award-winning Ozaki wagyu used at this Japanese-style fine dining restaurant is known be well-marbled. The leaner meat has a well-balanced and rich flavour. The cattle are raised for a longer period compared to normal wagyu cattle, as Mr. Ozaki believes the flavour intensifies with maturity. Chef Hirohashi Nobuaki brings in the entire head of cattle and delights with dishes made of different cuts. This includes a beef tongue consommé, wagyu sashimi and Ozaki beef sukiyaki topped with black truffle shavings.

Lunch Course $100 Ozaki Beef Course (9 courses) $200 Premium Ozaki Beef Course $300

The limited-time only Christmas and New Year Wagyu Platter includes 160g of Ohmi wagyu, 30g of tenderloin, 60g of rare cuts and Hitotoki Sparkling Sake, ideal for a festive date night out.

[マゴサブロウ]

Magosaburo

Japanese Wagyu Dining Taste exceptional wagyu alongside impeccable service

Located in the heart of Orchard Road, this classy, modern restaurant brings in whole Ohmi cattle, so diners can look forward to tasting rare cuts that are scarce even in Japan. Besides yakiniku (焼肉, grilled meat), you can revel in flavourful meat cooked as sukiyaki or shabu-shabu too.

Kobe Beef Thinly Sliced 80g (Yaki-Shabu) $108 → $54

(50% OFF)

*Reservation required. Valid till 2 Jan'17 (excluding 23, 24 & 25 Dec’16). Not valid with other promotions

Christmas and New Year Wagyu Platter $188 Standard Wagyu Platter $38

32

| WAttention Singapore

Ion Orchard, #04-11A & #05-01, 2 Orchard Turn | 6634-1411 Lunch: Mon-Fri 11.30am - 3pm Dinner: Mon-Fri 5.30pm - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) Sat, Sun & PH 11.30am - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) magosaburo.sg *Reservation for dinner is required.

#01-01, 57 Tras Street | 6221-6379 Lunch: Mon-Fri 12pm - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm) Dinner: Mon-Sat 6pm - 10.30pm (L.O. 9pm) Closed on Sun ushidoki.com

[ポルティコ プライム]

Portico Prime Dine on A5 wagyu in an elegant colonial setting Having been awarded the prestigious Singapore’s Top Restaurants 2016 Award recently, this home-grown restaurant serves modern European foodfare in the heart of Dempsey Hill.

Their revamped menu includes a highly-reviewed Kagoshima A5 sirloin steak ($98) that comes with red wine sauce as well as sea salt to bring out the meaty flavours.

The premium A5 grade wagyu is air-flown from Kagoshima and has rich marbling that makes the meat melt in your mouth. This is one wagyu dining experience you do not want to miss.

1 complimentary

house pour for every order of Kagoshima Sirloin. *Not applicable with Entertainer App, other credit card promotions and set menus. Maximum 6 redemptions per bill. Valid until 28 Feb’17.

10 Dempsey Road #01-20| 6474-7427 Sun-Thu 11.30 am - 10.30 pm (L.O. 10pm) Fri, Sat 11.30 am - 11pm (L.O. 10.30pm) *Closed Mon till end of 2016 portico.sg/portico-prime

Specially selected A5 grade wagyu is used for Kuroson’s Original Roast Beef, resulting in succulent slices of tender, savoury meat that go perfectly with their exclusively brewed Ginza Kuroson Karakuchi Daiginjo sake.

Magnificent Matsusaka Wagyu Called the “Queen of Dignity”, Matsusaka cattle contain healthy amounts of unsaturated fatty acids which reduce cholesterol levels so you can enjoy it guilt-free!

TWO ways you can bring 5kg of wagyu home: Order via email to Matsusaka City Tourism Association and get it delivered to your hotel, all domestic airports OR collect from Matsusaka Koryu Bussankan.

Buy it duty-free from DELI&CAFÉ at Chubu Centrair International Airport’s Departure Lobby! info@matsusaka-kanko.com matsusaka-kanko.com/org/org/matsusaka-koryu-bussankan-omiyage/

[銀座黒尊ロバートソンキー]

Ginza Kuroson Robertson Quay

Savour the uncompromising taste of quality beef This classy joint is suitable for a variety of occasions and offers choice A5 kuroge wagyu roast beef as part of their special year-end menu. Aside from its fresh produce and seafood which is sourced directly from various fish markets in Japan, the restaurant is known for its chic interior and omotenashi.

Ginza Kuroson Original Roast Beef (80g)

* Order required one week in advance. * For email orders, please pay & arrange collection at Matsusaka Koryu Bussankan.

$68

Seven Varieties of Seasonal Sashimi

$48

Shimanto Course

$120

Riverside View #01-10/11, 30 Robertson Quay | 6737-5547 | Lunch 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2pm), Dinner 6pm - 11pm (L.O. 10pm) ginza-kuroson.com Ginza Kuroson Singapore

[竹葉亭 シンガポール]

Chikuyotei Partake in irresistible Kagoshima kuroge wagyu Well-known for its unagi dishes and omakase course, this traditional restaurant nestled in the corner of a five-star hotel offers authentic fare and top-notch service. Chef Akihiro Maetomo, who has worked in the Michelin-starred flagship store in Tokyo, heads the Singapore outlet and is constantly creating new dishes to surprise diners. Both Chikuyotei outlets in Singapore serve Kagoshima kuroge wagyu, which is renowned for its well-balanced fat marbling and fullbodied flavour. Try the shabu-shabu or sukiyaki at the long-standing Intercontinental branch, or go for thick slices of charcoal grilled beef at UE Square, served on a lava stone to keep them hot.

Intercontinental Singapore #01-01, 80 Middle Road 6738-1990 / 9725-5311 Daily 12pm - 2.30pm 6pm - 10.30pm

UE Square #01-01, 207 River Valley Road 6235-2795 / 9858-9892 Mon-Sat 12pm - 2.30pm 6pm - 10.30pm Closed on Sun Chikuyotei Singapore

Kagoshima Black Wagyu Shabushabu [Intercontinental] $118 Kagoshima Kurobuta Shabushabu [intercontinental]

$68

Kagoshima Charcoal Grilled $88 Black Wagyu [UE Square]

KEYWORD #5: hormon Other signature dishes include the US Angus Ribeye steak, which has juicy meat and a nice bounce in texture that goes exceptionally well with freshly grated wasabi.

[しゃぶしゃぶ東屋]

Shabushabu

Azmaya

Indulge in all-you-can-eat premium beef Big eaters and beef lovers, this is the place for you. Choose from an array of side dishes including vegetables, kimchi and cold tofu to complement the meat menu. Aside from the wagyu beef slices, enjoy springy gyūtan (牛タン, beef tongue) cooked lightly in homemade bonito broth.

30 Robertson Quay, #01-12/13 | 6737-6863 Mon-Thu 6pm - 1am, Fri 6pm - 4am, Sat 5pm - 4am, Sun 5pm - 1am azmaya2013

[鶏金]

Torikin Teppan Q Slurp up the best of Hakata-style fare Hakata Mentai Motsu Nabe $42.90 Wagyu Motsu Teppan $16.90 US Angus Ribeye Steak (200g) $58.90

More than just a run-of-themill Japanese restaurant, this contemporary F&B concept marries Hakata-style teppanyaki cooking with Spanish tapas cuisine for a yummy twist. Hot on their menu is the addition from their sister store Torikin — Hakata Mentai Motsu Nabe is a traditional Japanese stew served with beef offal and seasoned cod roe.

Robertson Walk #01-21/22, 1 Unity Street | 6235-0629 | Daily 6pm - 11pm (L.O. 10.30pm) Teppan Bar Q

Azmaya uses top quality Australia gyūtan that is carefully sliced so each piece has just the right amount of chewy texture. Dip in negi-shio (ネギ塩, spring onion-flavoured salt) to enhance the taste!

KEYWORD #6: Branded pork

[丸佐屋]

Dashi Master

Marusaya

Perfect union of all-natural dashi and delectable pork Dashi is the building block of almost all Japanese cooking, and this casual-style restaurant prides itself on its simple yet rich broth made using specially selected katsuobushi (鰹節, bonito flakes) that has been aged to enhance its flavour. One great way to enjoy it is with Okinawa Agu Pork shabu-shabu. Marusaya uses Kin Agu pig which is extremely rare. The soft meat is fatty, sweet and has a very mild smell as its feed contains brown clamshell mushrooms and sake lees. If you want beef instead, try the Toriyama Umami Wagyu that has rich umami taste and pairs wonderfully with the tasty broth.

86 Robertson Quay #01-01 Robertson Blue |6732-0383 Daily 12pm-2.30pm (L.O. 2.15pm), 5pm - 11pm (L.O. 10.15pm) marusaya.sg

Agu Pork Premium Dashi Shabu-shabu $45 /person *Minimum 2 orders, includes 2 hour free flow drinks.

Party Plan (for 4 pax) *9-dish course meal, includes 2 hour free flow drinks. *Valid until end Jan’17.

$100/person

Gyūtan Shabu-shabu Buffet $100 » $49.80

Premium Kuroge Wagyu Shabu-shabu Buffet $65

other meat: lamb [北海道レストラン]

The Hitsuji Club Enjoy authentic Hokkaido jingiskan right here in Singapore This is the first jingiskan (ジンギスカン) specialty restaurant in Singapore, offering a comprehensive menu of premium lamb and vegetables imported from Hokkaido. The high quality lamb meat served here is extremely fresh, contains lower cholesterol levels and is ideal for the health and beauty conscious.

For first-timers, try the Baby Chop which is tender and free of any gamey flavour, or the Sauce on Jingiskan (壺漬けジンギスカン, specially marinated jingiskan). The Lamb Nikomi (stewed lamb tendon) that comes in a flavourful broth is also a must-try!

Flash this write up (print or digital) and get a FREE drink 65 Circular Road 6221-3789 | Mon-Fri 6pm-12am (L.O. 11pm), Sat 6pm-12am (L.O. 11pm), Closed on Sun the-hitsuji-club.com

Hokkaido Jingiskan set Standard Jingiskan set Lightly Roasted Lamb

$45 $30 $15

Other meat: chicken [博多華味鳥]

Hanamidori Mouth-watering hotpot creations to whet your appetite This hotpot specialists prides itself on its Mizutaki (水炊き) originating from Hakata, Kyushu.

Made by boiling boney chicken parts with an assortment of vegetables, the heart-warming dish can be eaten dipped with ponzu (ポン酢, citrus-based sauce) or yuzu green chilli pepper for a spicy kick.

Mizutaki (for 1 pax) $23.90 Tori Hitsumabushi Set $15.90 Mizutaki Karaage $7.90

Plaza Singapura #04-01, 68 Orchard Road 6333-9287 | Daily 11.30am - 10pm hanamidori.com.sg

The flavourful soup in the hotpot is prepared following their special recipe using fresh Hanamidori brand chickens.

The raised tatami-floored seats add an authentic Japanese touch to the restaurant.

Apart from signature yakitori, try the Tokusei Yakitori Tamago Toji, a dish best enjoyed piping hot.

This new take on the classic chicken and egg combo is sure to be a hit! [やきとり家すみれ]

Sumire

Yakitori House Be spoilt for choice at this chicken specialty restaurant With more than 60 outlets in Japan, this casual dining concept hopes to bring smiles to everyone’s faces with their delicious chicken dishes.

First-time diners at Sumire should try the Hinatoro (ひなとろ, chicken shoulder) with salt, while the more adventurous can go for Bonjiri (ぼん じり, chicken tail).

Tokusei Yakitori Tamago Toji $21.80 Yakitori from $2.90 Standard Enkai Course $30

Bugis Junction, #01-88/89, 80 Middle Road 6338-9963 | Mon-Thu 11.30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10.30pm Fri, Sat & eve of PH 11.30am - 11pm Sun & PH 11.30am - 10.30pm sumire.com.sg SumireSG

WAttention Singapore |

35

e l z z u p y the meat 1

3

Simply e t e l p m o c to win !

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Down

11

1. _____ Kuroson 12

2. The proper name for Japanese cows 4. This restaurant serves only the best Ozaki wagyu 6. Serves hearty portions of Hokkaido beef 7. Portico Prime serves this breed of wagyu 9. Number of outlets Tokyo Yakiniku Heijoen has in Tokyo 11. One of Yakinikuoh Goen's most affordable cuts

13

Across 3. Ginza Lion serves roastAcross Black _____ beef

Down

5. Niku Katsumata grills their wagyu on a _______ plate 3. Ginza Lion serves roast Black _ _ _ _ _ beef

12. The Japanese word for10.deep friedtobeef The place start cutlet your meat journey

WIN

1KG

Niku Katsumata grills their wagyu on a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ plate 8. An authentic Hokkaido5.lamb dish 8. An authentic Hokkaido lamb Butchery dish 9. This wagyu is brought in exclusively

by Huber's 9. This wagyu is brought in exclusively by Huber's 10. The place to start your meat journey Butchery

3 Lucky Winners!

1. _ _ _ _ _ Kuroson

2. The proper name for J apanese cows

4. This restaurant serves only the best Ozaki wagyu

6. S erves hearty portions of Hokkaido beef

7. Portico Prime serves this breed of wagyu

9. Number of outlets Tokyo Y akiniku Heijoen has in Tokyo

12. The J apanese foris deep fried________ beef cutlet 13. The amount and distribution of fat inword meat called

11. One of Y akinikuoh Goen's most affordable cuts

13. The amount and distribution of fat in meat is called ________

How to participate: Step 1: Complete the puzzle (hint: answers are found in our meat special) Step 2: Snap a photo of your answers Step 3: Email the photo along with your name, NRIC number and email address or mobile number to

TORIYAMA FARM UMAMI WAGYU

sg.contest@wattention.com

(worth $309) from Huber's Butchery and Bistro

Terms and Conditions: Contest closes on 22 Feb’17 and winners will be announced on 23 Feb’17. Prize collection by 5 Mar’17.

2 winners from magazine and 1 winner from Facebook ( total 3 winners)

Huber's Butchery and Bistro This European-style premium specialty store seeks to provide the finest grocery selection in Singapore. Their butchery counter offers thick cuts of Toriyama Umami Wagyu, renowned for its flavourful meat.

22 Dempsey Road | 6737-1588 Bistro Tue-Fri 11am - 10pm Sat, Sun & PH 9.30am - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm) Closed on Mon Butchery Mon-Fri 9.30am - 8pm Sat, Sun & PH 9.30am - 7pm Closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Lunar New Year

hubers.com.sg

1

st

Votes: 1,369

o v l u e t R i on 20 n e m 16 Ra Voted Singapore’s best-loved ramen by you!

Total votes: 6,831

2

nd

■Ramen Keisuke LOBSTER KING ロゴ

Votes: 891

3

rd

Votes: 886

WAttention Singapore |

37

Maguro Zanmai $34 ▼

o r u g Ma Fair

Otoro

Nigiri(2pc) $30 →

2nd – 25th Dec

$15

Chutoro

Savour a wide array of maguro dishes and indulge in refreshing Japanese sake.

Nigiri(2pc)

$20 →

$10

Akami

Nigiri(2pc) $8 →

$4

▲ Maguro & Avocado Salad topped with Onsen Tamago

Jozen Mizunogotoshi Junmai Daiginjyo (25th anniversary) $60++

Tekkamaki $7 →

▲ Fried Maguro Cheese Cutlet

$5

Available from mid December 2016

Millenia Walk #02-12/13 9 Raffles Boulevard 6238-1123 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm) 5.30pm 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Katong V #02-14/15/16 30 East Coast Road 6348-7897 11.30am - 2.30pm (L.O. 2pm) 5.30pm 10.30pm (L.O. 10pm)

Novena Square (Velocity) #02-76/77 238 Thomson Road 6255-2355 11.30am - 3pm (L.O. 2.30pm), 5.30pm - 10pm (L.O. 9.30pm)

Tomisushi Echigotei Cuppage Terrace 35 Cuppage Road 6333-4633 5pm - 12am (L.O. 11.30pm)

www.tomisushi.asia Some of the products are subject to change or may not be available due to seasonal or stock availability. All prices are subject to service charge & government tax.

Bringing the best of Japan to around the world 2016 Summer issue VOL.20

Nihonbashi SPECIAL FEATURE 1

Bridge To Timeless Elegance

SPECIAL FEATURE 2

Sweets & Snacks Japan Matcha Boom, Fruits Mania, Depachika, and more!

TOKYO ISLAND A Short Trip from Tokyo Harbor

Los Angeles

Tokyo

2011.05 launched

2012.03 launched

Singapore 2010.03 launched

Paris

2013.07 launched

Mexico

Mumbai

2015.11 launched

2014.01 launched

ĺ‚ˆĺŠĽ

䎕 ĺ‚ˆ

劼

눃

⸂

äż’

âť‹

錚

⯕

äž•

ăœĄ

é’&#x;

ISSUE July / 2016

ĺ¤?ć—Ľ ç˜‹ćž€č°ˇ !

Summer in Shibuya

ćšśę§Œ

Malaysia Indonesia

2011.03 launched

2014.08 launched

Thailand Hong Kong

2013.02 launched

2014.06 launched

ĺ‚ˆĺŠĽćŹŹęľşę¨ŤęľşăŁ? 1, ă˘šĺ‚ˆęş¨ăšś 㺢㥌朏㿋錹

Taiwan

What is WAttention?

WAttention is a name created by combining “ ĺ’Œ â€? (WA) - meaning all things Japanese - with “attentionâ€?, referring to our mission to bring attention to the best of Japan. “Waâ€? also bears the connotation of “linkingâ€?, which is what WAttention aims to do as a bridge linking Japan and the world.

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

2012.10 launched

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ing t s e er ら 外国人か い 白 見た面 ！ ！！ 日本語

T od a y’ s W or d

To da y’s Le ar ne r:

がく

雲隠れする

ru Kumogakure su

Just like the English language, there are some Japanese phrases that make use of weather words as idioms. But what makes these phrases interesting is that some of them have some almost mystical roots. Some of the phrases are actually from ancient times and

Pronunciation 発音

Form

どう し

めい し

動詞 ・名 詞

Verb/Noun

形

lly, it is ‘hide in Disappear. Litera it is used when m people escape fro ething and they or hide from som elves. It is also disappear thems the passing of the used to describe atives. emperor or his rel

lly, Meaning the clouds’. Usua somewhere 意味

の 今どき

ディスる [ver b]

di

In Japanese, ‘ru’ is often added to nouns to change them into verbs.

For example taking ‘dis’ from disrespect and adding ‘ru’ gives you disru which means to diss someone. Another example would be the word ‘Google’. It is both in noun and verb in English but in Japanese we only use ‘Gugu-ru’ as a verb. Most of the terms in this form come from English words so it is easier for learners to remember.

10

VOL.

Victoria

from Singapore were used by or to describe ninja! But it can get a little confusing as you cannot be too sure if the person is actually talking about the weather or means something deeper. It is good practice for reading between the lines and learning a bit more about Japanese subtlety.

LET’S LEAR N THE EX PR ESSION WITH WEATHER TERMS :)

ru

su

ィスる Dis + ru = デ di su ru グるru =グ gu gu Google + ru コピる Copy + ru = ko pi ru Mis

る s + ru = ミス ru mi

su

15 3:23:56 PM paper05.pdf 5 11/10/20

y’s Toda en Brok ese J a p a n 言葉

Conductor Aki Loves exploring how culture affects language differently around the world and works as copywriter & editor.

Also has a postgraduate certificate in TJFL (teaching Japanese as a foreign language).

Discover new interesting Japanese words and phrases from a Japanese learner’s point of view with the aid of a Japanese teacher. Let’s get started! ☺

今日の単語

くも

Japanese Language

in

gs t n i d n I Fin

心が晴れる

気持ちが晴れる

Kokoro ga hareru

Kimochi ga hareru

You will be so pleased and happy as all your anxiousness or worries are gone. Literally, ‘heart/ mind turned sunny’.

Slightly different from kokoro ga hareru, this version has a simpler meaning: ‘your mind or feelings are clear’.

雨降って地固まる

雲行きが怪しい

Ame futte ji katamaru

Kumoyuki ga ayashii

This idiom‘s literal translation is ‘after rain the ground becomes hard’. It describes how relationships or situations become better or more stable after a quarrel.

Literally, ‘the clouds look menacing’, which means there will be bad weather. It is also used to forecast situations and describe ‘the things are going to get worse’ or ‘something bad will happen’.

Illustration credit: www.irasutoya.com

Looking for a

CAREER

in a Japanese Multi-National Company?

Good Job Creations is your gateway!

Good Job Creations (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.

http://goodjobcreations.com.sg/en/ ☎ (65) 6258 8051 EA License No 07C5771

40

| WAttention Singapore

LIFESTYLE &

THIS ISSUE: Anime Festival Asia (Singapore) Highlights

ENTERTAINMENT

Anime Festival Asia (Singapore) is back, louder, brighter, and better than ever before. This year’s rendition of the annual Japanese subculture celebration saw an amazing lineup of Anisong performances including T.M. Revolution and May’N; cosplay celebrities like Baozi and Hana; and limited edition merchandise such as giant anime posters. Amongst some of the best experiences at the event included live performances by idol groups at the Akiba Stage, trying your luck with Ichiban Kuji games at the Banpresto booth and feasting at the WAttention Food Street.

Join the

kawaii revolution

After pioneering the kawaii culture, opening Harajuku’s legendary 6%DOKIDOKI boutique and producing Kyari Pamyu Pamyu’s music videos, what is next for contemporary artist Sebastian Masuda? A conceptual time capsule project called Time After Time. Masuda has started to place time capsules around the world and have people leave future messages for themselves. The capsules will be then stacked up to create a peace monument for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the messages will be redistributed when the time capsules are opened in 2035.

Japanese comedian-singer Piko-Taro recently swung by Singapore to perform at AFA 2016, where hordes of fans sang and danced along to his viral hit Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen (PPAP). The 186cm tall funnyman shares his tips on how to sing PPAP:

1

2

3

4

5

Draw on a thin black moustache with a pen or marker.

Acquire and put on your finest leopard-print silk pajamas.

Slip on a pair of your uncle’s reading glasses.

Practise all the quirky dance steps.

Sing the word “UH” with equal feelings of love, passion and hate.

Once you become the PPAP master, it is time to create a unique version of your own. Who knows, you may just become the next Piko-Taro!

EVENT & INFORMATION | JAN - MAR 2017

FIND OUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN JAPAN & SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE 10 Jan – 18 Feb Singapore Arts Week Check out various creative, insightful and thoughtprovoking works of art at this annual event. Fans of the Japanese art scene should be sure not to miss Japanese new media artist Naoko Tosa’s latest and third solo exhibition Genesis held at Ikkan Art Gallery.

Free admission Ikkan Art Gallery artweek.sg

JP: 28 Jan - Yamayaki Watch the majestic Mt. Wakakusayama ignite in a blaze of sacred fire, held on the fourth Saturday of January every year. 200 fireworks will be launched as the hill continues to burn.

Nara Prefecture narashikanko.or.jp/yamayaki

18 Mar Anisong Fantasy Live Held for the first time in Singapore, the concert boasts some of SME Records’ top anime artists such as Aimer, Alisa Takigawa, ELISA, GARNiDELiA, Kalafina and Luna Haruna.

VIP $188, GA $118 Mega Box Event Hall @ Big Box apactix.com/events/detail/ anisong-fantasy-live-2017singapore

JAPAN 1 Jan Hatsumode Usher in the New Year with a visit to a shrine or temple; one of the most popular spots to visit is Meiji Jingu Shrine, which sees as many as three million visitors.

Free admission, Tokyo meijijingu.or.jp/english/index.html

3 Jan Tamaseseri At this annual event, farmers and fishermen compete against each other wearing only loincloths for an 8kg treasure ball believed to bring good fortune to the one who lifts it over his head.

Free admission, Hakozakigu Shrine, Fukuoka City, Fukouka Prefecture hakozakigu.or.jp 21-22 Jan Earth Garden Winter 2017 Located in the famous Yoyogi Park, the winter edition of this quarterly Earth Garden features an array of eco-themed stalls, food stands, workshops, music and art performances across the park.

Yoyogi Park, Tokyo 42

| WAttention Singapore

3 Feb Setusbun Mantoro

More than 3,000 lanterns offered by citizens are lit at Kasuga Taisha Shrine to mark the transition from winter to spring, also known as setsubun (節分).

From ¥500, Kasugataisha Shrine, Nara City, Nara Prefecture kasugataisha.or.jp

15-16 Feb Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival This 400-year-old festival features more than 100 large kamakura (かまくら, igloo-like snow houses), which contain small altars with offerings to the gods.

Yokote City, Akita Prefecture

Harvested & packed in Japan.

Quality Guaranteed! 高品質で美味しい 日本米をお値打ち価格で お楽しみください！

Available at Japanese Supermarkets 日系のスーパーマーケットで お求めいただけます

Yamagata Haenuki (2kg, 5kg)

Iwate Sakura Hitomebore (2kg)

Uonuma Koshihikari (2kg, 5kg)

Yamagata Tsuyahime (2kg)

Niigata Koshiibuki (5kg)

Akita Komachi Musenmai (2kg, 5kg)

Iwate Furusato Hitomebore

(2kg, 5kg)

Kinmemai (4.5kg)

Niigata Koshihikari Musenmai (2kg, 5kg)

Iwate Sasanishiki (2kg)

Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi (5kg)

Iwate Akita Komachi (5kg)

33 Senoko South Road, Singapore 758085 Tel: (65) 6756-6128 (8 Lines) Fax: (65) 6756-3268 Email: tspltd@tspsonghe.com.sg Website: www.tspsonghe.com.sg

Nagano Koshihikari (2kg, 5kg)

Hokkaido Yumepirika (2kg, 5kg)

The information above is current as of August 2016.