Tokyo Weekender - May 2017

MAY 2017 

Japan’s number one English language magazine 

SOME 

PEOPLE 

ARE 

GROSSED 

OUT BY 

MY ART 

MEET THE HYPERREAL BODY 

ARTIST, THE ILLUSIONIST, 

THE CONTORTIONIST, AND THE 

ACROBAT WHO ARE ALL HELPING 

TO PUT THE COUNTRY ON THE 

GLOBAL TALENT MAP 

PLUS: Inside Nara's Abandoned Theme Park, Q&A with Chef Bill Granger, Japan's Child Poverty Crisis, and Our Spring Education Special

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20 

Photo by Taro Irei 

18 

26 

30 

radar 

THIS MONTH’S HEAD TURNERS 

8 AREA GUIDE: ODAIBA 

These artificial islands are an open playground 

amid Tokyo Bay. 

10 STYLE 

Our lust list of exclusive items on offer 

at Tokyo's newest luxuy mall, Ginza Six. 

14 THE CONCIERGE 

Editor's picks from our roundup of top restaurants, 

salons, and services in the city. 

in-depth 

COFFEE-BREAK READS 

20 INSIDE NARA DREAMLAND 

Why one couple chose the abandoned 

theme park to celebrate their engagement. 

26 THE HIDDEN POVERTY CRISIS 

Statistics show that one in six children in 

Japan are living in relative poverty. So why 

is the government in denial? 

28 MUSICAL NOTES FROM THE 

JAPANESE UNDERGROUND 

New book Quit Your Band proves there's 

more to Japanese music than J-pop. 

30 "FOOD IS LIKE FASHION" 

Bill Granger on being inspired by Japan's 

visual culture, and his favorite Bills branches 

including the latest opening in Ginza. 

guide & 

education 

CULTURE ROUNDUP 

34 ART & MUSIC 

And the winner of the best exhibition title 

goes to ... Masamichi Katayama for his 

installation show called "Life is Hard ... Let's 

Go Shopping." 

36 AGENDA 

It's festival season from wild flowers to music, 

art, film, and even a traditional matsuri. 

39 SPRING EDUCATION SPECIAL 

The latest news from some of Tokyo's best 

international schools, including a new middle 

school opening this September. 


17 COVER: JAPAN'S GOT TALENT 

Meet four artists and performers who are 

putting Japan on the global talent map. 

32 EXPLORE THE SPECIAL GARDENS 

OF YOKOHAMA 

With the Garden Necklace flower event. 

46 PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES 

Looking back on St Patrick's Day celebrations, 

and Rainbow Pride week.


Publisher 

President 

Executive Producers 

Editor in Chief 

Senior Editors 

Creative Director 

Features Writer 

Contributors 

Sales Director 

Sales Executives 

Media Strategist 

Media Consultant 

Media Producers 

ENGAWA Co., Ltd. 

Takanobu Ushiyama 

Asi Rinestine 

Naoya Takahashi 

Annemarie Luck 

Alec Jordan 

Lisa Wallin 

Liam Ramshaw 

Matthew Hernon 

Vivian Morelli 

Luca Eandi 

Bill Hersey 

Bunny Bissoux 

Takaaki Murai 

Hirofumi Ohuchi 

Kahori Terakawa 

Nobu (Nick) Nakazawa 

Yu Suzuki 

Mandy Lynn 

Mary Rudow 

Jessica "Yumi" Idomoto 

Claudia Sun 

Cover art by Hikaru Cho, photo by Katuaki Sato 

EST. Corky Alexander, 1970 

SSU Bld. 1F 4-12-8 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku 

Tokyo, Japan 151-0051 

(03) 6432-9948 / (03) 6438-9432 (fax) 

editor@tokyoweekender.com 

To subscribe to the Tokyo Weekender, please call 

(03) 6432-9948 or email: 

customer-support@tokyoweekender.com 

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広告に関するお問い合わせ先 

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Opinions expressed by Weekender contributors 

are not necessarily those of the publisher 

Published by ENGAWA Co., Ltd. 

4 | MAY 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER

@mizrama: I’m often surprised by how a theme 

develops organically with each issue we put together. 

This month, we have a few featured people and subjects 

that seem to peer beyond the obvious, for example 

our cover artist Hikaru Cho [page 17] whose hyperreal 

body art really makes one look beneath the surface, 

and an investigation into Japan’s hidden poverty crisis 

[page 26]. And of course, the couple you interviewed 

for our Nara Dreamland feature [page 20] – that 

was such an unusual choice for an engagement 

celebration. 

@bapawn: It was. I think there’s something beautifully 

poetic about celebrating the beginning of a life together 

by visiting an amusement park whose rides have fallen 

into disrepair, and whose grounds need to be explored 

by climbing fences and dodging security patrols. There’s 

a Japanese phrase that goes 諸行無常 (shogyoumujou), 

and it basically means “all things must pass” – that’s 

the feeling I got from looking at their pictures. But in 

a sweet way, if that makes sense. 

@mizrama: Oh, I love that sentiment. Japan does know 

how to appreciate the transitoriness of life. It also knows 

how to move on from the old and build shiny new 

shopping centers like Ginza Six [page 10]. How did you 

like the building’s Noh theater when you visited? 

@bapawn: It’s certainly the most impressive theater 

I’ve ever seen in the basement of a shopping center. 

In seriousness, though, it’s gorgeous. A very intimate 

space, and it does a nice job of using modern materials 

to create a space that feels traditional. I’d love to see a 

performance there. 

@mizrama: Me too. That's another thing Japan does 

well – aesthetics. Actually, this is one of the things chef 

Bill Granger mentioned in our interview with him [page 

30]. He spent a gap year here in the 90s and said how 

inspired he was by the visual culture. 

@bapawn: I think you can see it in a lot of the finer 

details at his restaurant. I even think his world-famous 

scrambled eggs might be a bit inspired by tamagoyaki. 

I gave his recipe a try, actually. 

@mizrama: And? 

@bapawn: It’s a good thing they’re the ones making 

the eggs. 

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WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH... 

Tokyo is like one big playground, but this month we've narrowed the fun down to two 

specific spots: Odaiba's amusements, and Ginza's newest shopper's paradise. 


AREA GUIDE 

KID AROUND IN ODAIBA 

PROVIDING FAMILIES WITH THE MOST DIRECT GETAWAY TO THE 

SHORE, THESE ARTIFICIAL ISLANDS ARE AN OPEN PLAYGROUND 

AMID TOKYO BAY 

Words and photographs by Luca Eandi 

FOLLY SHORE 

While most of Tokyo’s coastline is reserved 

for shipyards and industrial warehouses, 

Odaiba has retained access to its shores and 

flaunts many open spaces. Public areas like 

Seaside Park and Toritsu Shiokaze Park are 

perfect spots for sightseeing, people-watching, 

or a springtime barbecue. Two major 

sights from these spots are Rainbow Bridge, 

connecting Odaiba to the center of Tokyo, and 

a copy of the Statue of Liberty, prominently 

on display here since the year 2000. Along the 

shore is the Museum of Maritime Science, 

which stands unmistakably in the shape of a 

six-story-high ocean liner. Also, many dinner 

cruises and sea buses depart from Odaiba’s 

shores to take visitors out into the harbor. 

FUN FOR ALL 

Much of Odaiba is centered around 

recreation, and no place embodies 

that concept more than Palette 

Town. This amusement complex is 

made up of several venues designed 

to suit a wide spectrum of tastes. 

Tokyo Leisureland is a supersized 

video arcade, bowling alley, karaoke 

parlor and pool hall. If that weren’t 

enough, the Daikanransha Ferris 

Wheel, one of the biggest of its kind, 

spins riders up to 115 meters into the 

air. Next door, the Toyota Mega Web 

showroom has the auto company’s 

past, present and future on display, 

including a test circuit on the ground 

floor. The connected History Garage 

shows off international vintage cars. 

Rounding out the complex are the 

plush Venus Fort mall and the Zepp 

Tokyo music venue. 

8 | MARCH APRIL 2017 | | TOKYO WEEKENDER

ROBOT OR NOT? 

One of the most popular cultural exhibits in town is The National Museum of Emerging 

Science and Innovation, also known as the Miraikan, where the current and future social 

roles of technology are explored. With many interactive displays and creative activities, 

the museum offers guests the chance to take a true hands-on approach to science. Popular 

attractions include a dome theater for educational 3D films, daily science workshops and a 

giant globe-like display which floats above the large atrium. The true star of the museum, 

however, is ASIMO, a humanoid robot made by Honda that performs 

an impressive demo of its abilities, including running, 

dancing and doing sign language, at several 

times throughout the day. 

TV PARTY 

Architecturally speaking, there are 

several unique buildings in Odaiba, 

like the Tokyo Big Sight convention 

center, the Museum of Maritime 

Science and the Telecom Center, 

but no building stands out quite 

like Fuji TV Studios. Designed by 

noted architect Kenzo Tange, the 

futuristic structure is festooned with 

a 30-meter wide, silver metallic ball 

that sits 120 meters off the ground. 

The sphere, known as Hachitama, 

houses an observation deck and a 

pricey restaurant. Fans of Fuji TV can 

take guided tours through the studios 

to see where programs like the longrunning 

morning show Mezamashi 

TV are made. 

MALLRATS 

If shopping is your idea of fun, then 

Odaiba might just be the perfect place for 

you. There are several malls in the area, 

Diver City being the top destination. The 

mall features hundreds of retail stores 

and restaurants, the Zepp Diver City 

music venue and much more, but the real 

draw is the 18-meter Gundam statue that 

sits out front. And although the original 

statue was in the process of being dismantled 

at press time, a new, even bigger one 

will take its place later this year. If you 

think giant mechs are overkill, nearby 

Aqua City mall has a replica 50s American 

diner and a very real modern-day 

Taco Bell. If looking for a more scenic 

sit-down restaurant, Decks Tokyo Beach 

has several floors of eateries with dining 

rooms facing the sunset-favoring bay. 

TOKYO WEEKENDER | | MARCH APRIL 2017 | 9

STYLE 

GIUSEPPE 

ZANOTTI JUNE 

SHOES 

These sky-high heels are truly a 

work of art: the 2017 Giuseppe 

Zanotti spring collection was indeed 

inspired by the paintings of Botticelli, 

as a modern representation of 

the female image. While the pink 

flower motif conveys cuteness and 

femininity, the fierce stiletto heel 

gives the shoe an edge. Wear them 

to stroll around Ginza, where they 

will be right at home, whether 

you pair them with jeans or with a 

sequined cocktail dress. 

TOP SIX FROM 

GINZA SIX 

AS TOKYO’S LATEST LUXURY SHOPPING COMPLEX, 

GINZA SIX, OPENS ITS GRAND DOORS, HERE’S OUR LUST 

LIST OF EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED-EDITION ITEMS ON OFFER 

Compiled by Vivian Morelli 

DISCORD BY 

YOHJI YAMAMOTO 

FLOWER SERIES 

This Ginza branch of Discord by 

Yohji Yamamoto is the first and 

only shop for the line in the world. 

Discord was launched in 2014 

with this successful Flower series, 

which was reprinted especially 

for the opening of Ginza Six. 

The collection presents bags, 

wallets and scarves sporting the 

monotone cactus flower motifs. 

All the items are sleek and chic, 

with clean lines and flawless 

design – as we would expect 

from Mr. Yamamoto.

CITIZEN 

CAMPANOLA 

MECHANICAL KINRAN 

WATCH 

The design of this limited-edition Citizen 

watch depicts the streets of Ginza back 

in the early Meiji era, during which Japan 

opened up its trade and modernized. This 

watch blends the traditional Japanese 

craft of lacquer, which is used for the 

decoration of the dial, with contrasts of 

stunning black and 18k yellow gold. The 

mechanics are provided by Swiss horology 

master La Joux-Perret. Pair this unique 

piece with both everyday looks for the 

office and formal attire. 

MAISON 

MARGIELA DRESS 

Every wardrobe needs the 

quintessential little black dress, and 

this embroidered tea dress from 

Maison Margiela is a fun twist on the 

classic item. This asymmetrical design 

features delicate silver embroidery on 

one shoulder and sleeve, and a front 

twist that makes the fabric fall and 

drape beautifully. Pair it with minimal 

accessories and simple flats to keep 

the spotlight on the exquisite details. 

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS 

BOUTON D’OR RING 

To celebrate the opening of Ginza Six, French jeweler 

Van Cleef & Arpels designed this statement piece, 

which skillfully combines some rose gold, white gold 

and diamonds. The ring is part of their brand-new 

Bouton d’Or collection, which is all about curved lines 

and a reinterpretation of a motif from their 1930s 

creations. The Bouton d’Or ring has been released in 

the Ginza branch before any of its other worldwide 

stores, so try to get your hand (literally) on this 

exclusive and classic piece. 

JIMMY CHOO 

RUBEN SNEAKERS 

When in doubt, reach out for the Jimmy Choos. While the 

popular shoe and accessories brand is mostly known for 

women’s shoes and Sex and the City-style stilettos, they also 

make footwear for men, including these denim-blue kicks. 

Only available in Ginza, these Rock Spirit sneakers feature 

a whopping 174 hemispherical studs on each shoe (do the 

math!) – a fusion of luxury and punk rock.

[ PROMOTION ] 

SUMMER IN THE CITY 

Spending the sunny season in Tokyo? Here are five reasons why 

Grand Hyatt Tokyo is the best place to chill 

Whether you’re visiting the 

Big Mikan from afar, or 

you’re a local looking for 

shelter from the sweltering 

city heat, Grand Hyatt Tokyo provides 

five-star service whatever your needs may 

be. With a great location in the center of 

the city, plenty of restaurants, soothing 

spa treatments and exciting events all 

summer, you’ll find this dynamic lifestyle 

destination the ideal oasis from the 

sizzling streets. 

structures – perfect for a relaxing stroll. 

Summer festivals and other events are 

held in the area all season. For those 

seeking adventure further afield, the hotel 

is only three minutes’ away from the 

nearest metro station, which can spirit 

you away to major tourist destinations 

like the electronic heaven of Akihabara, 

the Ginza luxury shopping district, or the 

historic Tsukiji fish market. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, 

LOCATION 

Situated in the heart of Roppongi’s cultural 

and shopping hub, Grand Hyatt Tokyo is 

only a stone’s throw away from several art 

galleries and museums, movie theaters, 

upscale shopping venues and fine dining 

options. There are several inner-city 

garden spaces nearby with public art 

12 | FEBRUARY 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER

INTIMATE AL 

FRESCO DINING 

OFFERS A VITAMIN D 

INJECTION 

Nothing says summer 

like eating outdoors, and 

whether you want to soak 

up some rays during the 

day or feel the cool breeze 

at night, Grand Hyatt 

Tokyo has four restaurants 

with terraces for open 

air dining. The French 

Kitchen, The Oak Door and 

Roku Roku offer a relaxing 

atmosphere up above the 

hustle and bustle of the 

busy city, while Fiorentina 

Italian Cafe allows 

diners to people watch, 

while shielded behind a 

protective line of trees. 

For guests staying at the 

hotel, glamorous Grand 

Club also has a private 

terrace for nightcaps in an 

exclusive setting. 

YOU CAN SIP SPIRITS AT DECADENT SUMMER SOIREES 

The swanky Soiree Blanche party series is back by popular demand. Held at The French Kitchen's 

airy terrace and bar every Saturday from June 24 to September 2, these luxurious events recreate 

the glitz and glamor of celebrity summer parties in the south of France during the 1970s. Wear all 

white, imagine you're in a St. Tropez paradise, and enjoy the drinks that flow freely for a full three 

hours as well as food from the grill and homemade ice cream. For a different kind of nostalgia, 

look out for news on the upcoming Showa Era Beer Garden event, which features Showa-inspired 

snacks, drinks, and tunes from the era. 

NAGOMI SPA 

AND FITNESS 

HELPS YOU PUT 

YOUR BEST FOOT 

FORWARD 

With summer just 

around the corner, it’s 

time to think about your 

wardrobe. As you switch 

from heavy boots to 

strappy sandals baring 

your feet, you may need 

to spruce up your nails to 

complete your summer 

look. Look no further 

than Nagomi Spa and 

Fitness, where manicures 

and pedicures are 

now among the many 

stellar services on offer. 

If touched up toes aren’t 

your priority, there is a 

pool and a fully equipped 

gym to get those gains 

for that perfect summer 

bod. Nagomi is only open 

to members and guests, 

but signing up is simple. 

Better yet, why not treat 

yourself to a staycation 

and book an overnight 

retreat along with your 

spa day? 

THERE ARE (N)ICE NIBBLES 

TO KEEP YOU COOL 

Grand Hyatt Tokyo boasts no less than 10 bars and 

restaurants in its repertoire, serving everything 

from sumptuous sushi to palate-pleasing pastries. 

Each venue has polished up their menus fit for 

a sizzling summer dining experience. There are 

delectable dishes to cool you down while taking 

the culinary arts to new heights: Keyakizaka’s 

liquid nitrogen ice cream uses fresh mangoes from 

Okinawa and is made by chefs at your table as 

you watch on. The Oak Door’s ice cream burgers 

are an easy-to-eat treat, and Chinaroom has cold 

tsukemen noodles if you’re looking for something 

savory. With so many options to choose from, the 

Grand Hyatt Tokyo is your (chilled) oyster. 

CONTACT 

Grand Hyatt Tokyo 

6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku | Tel: 03-4333-1234 

Web: tokyo.grand.hyatt.com 

TOKYO WEEKENDER | FEBRUARY 2017 | 13

To coincide with the launch of our brand-new website, we've taken our monthly Concierge 

supplement online. Here, we share this month's editor's picks from the lineup, but for the full 

roundup of great restaurants, hotels, and other top venues around Tokyo – as well as reader 

discounts and special offers – simply head to www.tokyoweekender.com 

Elana Jade 

Summer is just around the corner, and Elana Jade offers 

a range of deluxe beauty treatments that will have you looking 

beautiful from head to toe. Know someone in need 

of pampering? We also have gift vouchers for all occasions. 

Special offer: Get radiant, supple skin with the relaxing Conditioning 

Facial (includes cleanse, steam, exfoliation, massage, 

mask and moisturize), 60 minutes for ¥10,000 (normal price 

¥13,000), valid until the end of May. 

NUA Japan 

Currently celebrating their eighth anniversary, NUA Japan 

offers a range of pampering treatments including manicures, 

pedicures, hair removal and facials. Take your facial 

a step further with the new IonActive Power Treatment, 

which combines Dermalogica’s most powerful products to treat acne, 

pigmentation and ageing skin. Competition: NUA Japan is offering 

one lucky winner a year’s worth of facials! To enter, simply book a 

facial at NUA’s Omotesando or Hiroo branches before August 31. 

ABOUT TOWN | EDITORS CHOICE 

www.elanajade.com 

03-6453-9319 

4F NS Azabu Juban Building, 3-6-2 Azabu Juban, Minato-ku 

nuajapan.com 

03-6804-5285 (Omotesando), 03-3444-3055 (Hiroo) 

4F Muramatsu Building, 5-16-4 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku (Hiroo) 

#102 Lamial Jingumae, 4-8-17 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku (Omotesando) 


RESTAURANTS | EDITORS CHOICE 

Ruby Jack's Steakhouse & Bar 

Welcome to steakhouse heaven. Whether you’re looking 

for a succulent ribeye or a hefty tomahawk, Ruby 

Jack’s Steakhouse & Bar uses only the best meats from 

their suppliers in the US, Australia and Japan. If you’re 

in the mood for a splurge, go for their 50-day dry-aged, bone-in Hokkaido 

Holstein beef. Start off with a tempting array of appetizers and 

an expertly blended cocktail from the bar, and savor your meal with 

a bottle drawn from their wide-ranging wine list. Special Promotion: 

Visit Ruby Jack’s on the 29th of every month for “Meat Day” (Meat 

= Niku = 2 [Ni] 9 [ku]) and enjoy a la carte beef at a 50% discount! 

Average Price: Lunch ¥3,000 Dinner ¥12,000 

rubyjacks.jp/en 

03-5544-8222 

2F Ark Hills South Tower, 1-4-5 Roppongi, 

Minato-ku 


Fujimoto Dental Clinic 

At this Ginza-based clinic, which was founded in 1981, you’ll 

not only receive world-class specialist restorative and periodontal 

dental care, but you’ll also be in the expert hands 

of Dr. Kohei Fujimoto. He is fluent in English, a graduate of 

the University of Washington’s Graduate Periodontics Program, and 

certified as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. 

Appointments can be made via phone. 

Owl Café Search 

Japan is famed for its wide variety of animal cafés, with owl 

cafés being one of the latest to join the lineup. This new website 

provides all the information you need to help you locate 

one of these feathery creatures to pet while sipping on a 

cuppa. Launching their English site this month, Owl Café Search lets 

you search by area, and includes details such as price, opening hours, 

and contact info for each café listed. 


www.owlcafe-search.com 


www.fujimoto-dental.com 

03-5551-0051 

4F Kami-Pulp Kaikan, 3-9-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku 

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16 | APRIL MARCH 2017 | | TOKYO WEEKENDER

BEYOND THE OBVIOUS... 

A hyperreal body artist whose layered work makes you look thrice; a couple who chose 

an unlikely destination for their engagement photos; a new book that takes you into 

Japan's underground musical scene; and the country's hidden poverty crisis. 

TOKYO WEEKENDER | APRIL 2017 | 17

THE HYPERREAL BODY ARTIST 

Hikaru Cho admits that her body art is not 

to everyone’s taste. Reactions vary greatly 

amongst those who see it, but that’s fine 

with her. Good or bad, the most important 

thing is that it leaves an impression. 

"Some people are amazed, others appreciate the 

technique, then there are those who are grossed out 

by it all," Cho says, laughing. "I don't think my work 

is grotesque at all so I find it quite interesting when I 

hear that. But it's better than someone having no opinion 

at all." 

It was a lack of paper in the room where she was 

studying one day that prompted the former Musashino 

University student to take up a career in body art. With 

no other canvas around, she decided to draw an eye on 

her friend's hand, and things took off from there. After 

posting her work online, Cho was given the opportunity to 

draw for Amnesty International's My Body My Rights campaign 

to coincide with International Women's Day in 2014. 

The collaboration – which featured in major global newspapers 

like The Independent and The Telegraph – attracted new 

audiences and raised her global profile. 

It led to an increased interest in her work and subsequently 

she's been kept busy over the past couple of years. Projects 

have included designs for CD covers and clothes, directing music 

videos and creating visuals for advertisements. She's currently 

working on a comic book that will be released this summer. 

"I draw inspiration from everyday things and my own general 

feelings," Cho says. "I think the realistic way I paint sets it apart 

from other body art out there. I try to convey messages to fight stereotypes 

and cast doubt on common sense. My dream is that people 

will look at the artwork and start thinking differently about things." 

IT’S NOT THE NORM TO STAND OUT 

FROM THE CROWD HERE, BUT THESE 

FOUR JAPANESE ARTISTS AND 

PERFORMERS GO TO THE 

EXTREME TO DO JUST THAT 

Words by Matthew Hernon 

© Tomonori Muraoka 

THE ACROBAT AND MARTIAL ARTIST 

© Hikaru Cho, photo by Katuaki Sato 

A 

two-time Extreme Martial Arts Japan champion, 

Tomonori Muraoka has been putting his body on 

the line for over a decade. It was the films of Jackie 

Chan that first piqued his interest in combat training 

when he was a high school student in Saitama. "I joined 

Japan Action Enterprise," Muraoka says. "It's a renowned 

establishment that was founded by Sonny Chiba (initially 

under the name Japan Action Club). We studied stunt performing, 

gymnastics, martial arts and jazz dance. I was the 

youngest in the class so it was quite intimidating early on.” 

Muraoka’s confidence and reputation soon grew. 

During his time with the agency he was chosen to perform 

in popular movies such as GeGeGe no Kitaro and 

20th Century Boys as well as the theatrical extravaganza 

Takizawa Kabuki. At the age of 24 he decided to go 

it alone. “My ambitions had changed,” he says. 

“My goal was, and still is, to perform for Cirque 

du Soleil, which meant focusing more on acrobatic 

skills than stunts. I didn’t get through the auditions 

in the States last year, but I was invited backstage 

by the company director who praised my routine 

and told me to try out again soon, which was encouraging 

to hear.” 

Another of Muraoka’s long-term aspirations 

is to bring the Cirque du Monde – a circus program 

that reaches out to marginalized kids – to 

Japan. For now, though, he is focused on improving 

his technique and continuing to entertain 

audiences with his spellbinding skills.

THE ILLUSIONIST 

After a brief introduction, HARA passes 

me his business card through the 

screen of his cellphone. It's a trick he 

teaches businesspeople with the intention 

of lightening the mood at meetings. 

The Japanese illusionist, who's been wowing international 

audiences for many years, shot to fame in 

2016 when he turned himself into a pigeon on America’s 

Got Talent. It mesmerized the judges, including Simon 

Cowell, who said, "For those two minutes it was like 

being in the happiest place.” 

“Knowing his reputation, I was delighted to hear 

that,” HARA tells Weekender. “Sometimes I’ll see skeptical 

eyes in the audience, particularly amongst men, but when 

I perform, their faces light up. That’s the power of magic.” 

HARA became intrigued by magic at the age of five 

when a clown handed him some crystal that he'd created 

from a bubble. Two years later the youngster started doing 

his own tricks. "My dream was to be a singer like my mum," 

he says. "I sang at a school talent show and got no reaction 

whatsoever. The following year I decided to buy a magic kit 

and perform what I'd learned. Everyone was amazed and I felt 

like a superstar.” 

Practicing every day, the self-taught magician from the mountains 

of Kumano soon started making a name for himself, and at 

17 competed in a world teens' magic tournament in Las Vegas. "I 

didn't win," he says matter-of-factly. "Rather than trying to entertain, 

I showed off. After watching Cirque du Soleil, I changed my 

act, becoming more of an illusionist than a magician. Twelve months 

later I triumphed at the competition." 

That success led to offers from all over the world, and despite not 

taking home the top prize on AGT, his run to the quarter-finals further 

increased his popularity. He’s only 26, but we get the distinct feeling 

there's plenty more to come from the man known as HARA. 

Photo by Reiko Wakai 

THE CONTORTIONIST 

In a largely conformist society, Rika Maruyama has never been 

afraid to stand out from the crowd. While her friends were enrolling 

at college and taking on office jobs she decided to start 

a career in contortionism, despite not initially knowing what 

the word meant. 

“Having done rhythmic gymnastics throughout my youth 

I've always had a limber body, and someone suggested I'd make 

a good contortionist," Maruyama says. "I eventually Googled it 

– after racking my brain for three weeks trying to remember 

what the word was – and was immediately captivated. I'd never 

seen anything like that in Japan." Maruyama spent hours 

watching videos online and was particularly enthralled by 

the performances of Mongolians Ulziibuyan Mergen, Oyun- 

Erdene Senge and Tsetseglen Odgerel. Feeling inspired, she 

decided to enroll at a nearby studio. 

In terms of flexibility, the then-18-year-old clearly 

had great potential, but what she lacked was physical 

strength. She's worked hard, building up her muscles with 

a strict fitness regime that includes handstand push-ups. 

Now in her fourth year as a contortionist, Maruyama is 

Japan's leading figure in the discipline. Admittedly she 

doesn't have much competition, but it's still been an impressive 

rise in a short time. 

"It's not exactly a stable profession," she says. "I 

teach regularly and there will be months when I'll 

have lots of commercials and shows booked; other 

times it's quiet. What I enjoy most is the freedom of 

being able to plan my own routines. Contortionism 

isn't well known here so I hope to raise its profile in 

Japan and perform all over the world. It probably 

won't be a lengthy career because of the physical 

demands so I have to make the most of it and continue 

striving to be the best." 


WHY ONE YOUNG COUPLE CHOSE JAPAN’S EERIE, 

ABANDONED NARA DREAMLAND THEME PARK FOR 

CELEBRATING THEIR NEW LIFE TOGETHER 

Words by Alec Jordan. Photographs by Anna, and Casey Hawkins

What better way to celebrate an 

engagement than spending a 

late afternoon taking "usfies" 

at an abandoned amusement 

park? This inspiration is what 

drew Anna and her fiancé Max to Nara Dreamland, 

a theme park that had gone to seed 

a decade earlier. 

The park was the brainchild of businessman 

Kunizo Matsuo, who visited Disneyland on a 

trip to the US in the 1950s. After witnessing the 

popularity of Disney's then-new creation, he hit 

upon the idea of bringing the Magic Kingdom to 

Japan – specifically, to Japan’s very first capital 

city, Nara. Matsuo got in touch with Walt Disney, 

the two parties appear to have struck a deal, and 

some of the engineers who had been involved 

in the original Disneyland were brought in to 

consult on what could have become the Happiest 

Place in Japan. 

But before work was completed on the new 

location, Disney and Matsuo came to a sticking 

point on licensing and franchising terms, and the 

deal fell through. In addition to paying for the 

help from Disney’s engineers, Matsuo Entertainment 

Company had to come up with their own 

original characters that would greet guests at the 

park that opened its gates in 1961. So, instead 

of Mickey and Minnie, it was say hello to Ranchan 

and Dori-chan, two forgettable little tykes 

dressed in soldier suits and bearskin caps. 

While the Disney crew was nowhere to be 

found, Dreamland did bear a striking resemblance 

to that Magic Kingdom in Anaheim, 

California. And it was pretty popular in Japan, 

drawing more than 1.5 million visitors a year 

when business was at its best. A second Dreamland, 

this one in Yokohama, was built in 1964. 

However, by the late 70s, the requiem for the 

Dreamland was being composed: the Oriental 

Land Company was in talks with Disney to create 

what would become Tokyo Disneyland, which 

finally opened in 1983. 

Tokyo Disneyland took a toll on Nara Dream- 


THE PARK 

HAS BECOME 

A MECCA 

FOR LOVERS 

OF HAIKYO – 

ABANDONED 

BUILDINGS 

land’s popularity, but about a million guests were still 

making it there every year in the 80s. It wasn’t until 

2001, when Tokyo DisneySea launched and Universal 

Studios Japan began action in nearby Osaka, that 

the nightmare really began. Attendance dropped 

to 400,000 visitors a year, shops at the amusement 

park began to close, and rides started showing their 

age. Nara Dreamland was finally shuttered in 2006 

(Yokohama Dreamland had closed four years before), 

the owners of the park stopped paying property taxes, 

and the ill-fated amusement park became the property 

of the municipal government. 

In the decade that followed, Nara Dreamland 

became a mecca for lovers of haikyo (abandoned 

buildings) who were willing to brave two layers of 

chain-link fence topped with barbed wire, security 

patrols, and stiff punishments that were handed out 

to trespassers (hefty fines, and potential visa "complications" 

for foreigners). A steady stream of daring 

shutterbugs made their way to the park, and the 

photos started making their way around the internet. 

Anna first heard of Nara Dreamland about five 

years back: "I saw one of those Buzzfeed-y style lists 

of 'the most interesting abandoned places in the 

world' and on the list were places you'd never want 

to go, like Chernobyl; places far enough away that I 

could never feasibly reach them, like the Wonderland 

in China's Chenzhuang Village; and places long destroyed, 

including Gulliver's Kingdom near Fujisawa. 

Then, finally, I saw 'Nara Dreamland.' To my delight, 

some Googling showed me that it was within Nara 

city limits, certainly not yet demolished, and, better 

yet, there was tons of information online about how 

to access it." 

Although she's not a haikyo hunter, Anna is a 

professional photographer who recognizes the allure 

of these left-behind places, in both rural areas and 


in the heart of the biggest city on Earth: "My 

friends and I have explored parts of Fukushima 

(not the regulated areas that are unsafe due to 

radiation), Gifu, Odawara, and even Sagamiko 

Lake, which all had buildings left behind, from 

bowling centers to ice cream shops and boat 

harbors. Even walking through Tokyo you can 

come across an alleyway that you can imagine 

was once a hideaway of little bars, but is all 

boarded up. Particularly in Japan, abandoned 

places are especially fascinating because of the 

care that we know people put into maintaining 

businesses while they were active; to see 

them left at a standstill, even while the rest of 

the city moves on, is always so interesting ... 

It feels like a lot of heart was left behind, in a 

gut-wrenching manner." 

Since reading about it, Anna continued to 

follow up on news about Nara Dreamland. She 

knew that there were plans to demolish the 

park, and she and Max had plans to return to 

the US. "I knew my window to safely get inside 

was opening up slowly, but would snap shut 

altogether very soon ... With weeks left on our 

visas, and enough money to cover us in case 

of emergency, I pored over maps and blogs for 


THESE PHOTOS ARE NOT AS GLAMOROUS AS AN AVERAGE ENGAGEMENT 

SHOOT, BUT WE FEEL THAT THEIR RAWNESS REPRESENTS US 

tens of hours (my fiancé can vouch for that!) as I 

did not want to simply 'bust in' and treat it lightly. 

I still wanted to do it carefully." 

On a late afternoon last May, when the couple 

finally made it to Dreamland, there were plenty of 

nerves, which were – appropriately, perhaps – accompanied 

by a funhouse atmosphere: "[At first] 

we panicked over every small noise, and even 

ducked into a shed for nearly 20 minutes before 

we realized we were simply being paranoid. We 

also realized the voices we heard inside were 

not security at all, but at least two dozen other 

'tourists' inside at the same time! We came across 

a family, another couple, some brave souls climbing 

the Matterhorn, people hiking up the roller 

coaster, and other wanderers – even a girl who 

had honestly walked right into the park, not even 

aware she wasn't supposed to be inside at all ... 

There were some sites we had wanted to see but 

never got the chance to, as we had gone in around 

sunset, and it was getting dark – fast. When the 

sun finally set, we took off sprinting like madmen, 

but couldn't stop laughing once we were out!" 

In the long run, Anna and Max got in – and 

out – just in time. "Not a month after we left did 

they bulldoze the huge wooden roller coaster that 

had once been the pinnacle of Japanese theme 

parks. We also couldn't help feeling a bit of pride, 

getting in during the final moments that it stood. 

We will certainly cherish the photos, which help 

us tell a great story! These photos are not nearly 

as glamorous or pristine as an average engagement 

shoot, but we are pretty proud of what we 

managed to capture, and feel that their rawness 

represents us: someplace new, someplace old, 

someplace we shouldn't be, hearts pounding, 

nervous smiles and all.” 


Although Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has stated there is "no way" Japan is in poverty, 

statistics show that 54% of single-parent families, and 16% of children, are living 

below the poverty line. Matthew Hernon investigates the country’s hidden crisis 

When Hiroko Kondo opened Japan's 

first children's café (kodomo shokudo) 

in 2012 she had no idea the 

impact it would have. Owner of a 

vegetable shop called Kimagure Yaoya Dandan, she 

decided to use the space to create an environment 

where children – either living in relative poverty 

or left alone in the evenings – could eat healthy 

dinners twice a month at heavily discounted prices. 

Five years on and there are now hundreds of stores 

like it throughout the country. 

“A friend working at an elementary school 

nearby told me one student wasn’t eating properly 

because of a sick mother,” Kondo says. “She wasn't 

able to cook so there were days when the child 

would eat school lunch and a banana, and that was 

it. You see so much food around, it shocked me that 

there were people not getting enough. I wanted to 

do something, but it took me two years to decide, 

and by the time I finally did, the child in question 

had left home to live in an institution. I regret waiting 

so long, yet at the same time I'm glad this café 

has inspired others to do something similar." 

Kondo estimates there are around 400 children’s 

cafeterias in Japan right now. Some offer 

meals for free, occasionally with the proviso that 

the children help out, others charge a small amount. 

At Dandan – located in Hasunuma, Tokyo – minors 

can enjoy an organic meal for the price of one coin; 

any coin. Initially bimonthly, the service is now 

open every Thursday from 5:30pm. During our visit, 

the shop, which seats around 20 people, filled up 

quickly. On other days, the place is often used as a 

classroom with lessons for adults and kids. 

In Tokyo's Toshima district, Chieko Kuribayashi's 

non-profit organization Wakuwaku has taken things 

further. "As well as the cafés and learning centers, we 

have a play park for children left alone after school 

because of parents' work commitments," she tells 

Weekender. "We'll soon be starting a service called 

Wakuwaku Home which will see volunteers visiting 

various houses simply to lend an ear." 


Perspective drawing of The Nippon Foundation’s Onomichi 

facility for children, which is set to open in July 

Outside of Toshima, Kuribayashi, who 

launched the NPO in 2014, networks with 

other volunteer organizations including 

Kondo's group, and both ladies are pleased 

with the recent work that's being done from 

the bottom up in Japan. When it comes to the 

government, though, they're not so positive. 

At a Diet committee session last January, 

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated that there 

was "no way" Japan was in poverty, and that 

by global standards the country was "definitely 

one of the wealthiest." The most recent 

survey on child poverty, however, appears to 

refute his claims. 

According to the Ministry of Health, Labour 

and Welfare roughly one in six children 

(16.3%) in Japan under the age of 18 were 

living in relative poverty in 

2012. The measurement of 

relative poverty – defined by 

the Organisation for Economic 

Co-operation and Development 

(OECD) as those with 

incomes at or below half the 

median national disposable 

income – has been dismissed 

by some politicians in the 

LDP, yet whichever way you 

look at it, Japan's current economic 

situation is not as rosy 

as the Prime Minister makes 

out. Figures for single-parent 

households are even more 

startling: 54.6% are reportedly living below 

the poverty line, the highest amongst the 

OECD member countries. 

Over the past four decades the number 

of single mothers in Japan has increased 

from an estimated 626,200 in 1973 to more 

than 1.2 million. Concerned about the growing 

numbers receiving dependent children's 

allowances, the government introduced reforms 

in 2003 that encouraged single mothers 

to work. The current employment rate 

for single mothers is around 80%, however 

less than 40% work full-time. Many require 

one or two part-time jobs with little pay and 

not enough time to spend with their kids. 

Last year, the children's allowance 

(which depends on income) for one-parent 

families increased slightly from ¥9,780- 

¥41,420 per month to ¥9,990-¥42,330. (The 

IT'S A KIND 

OF POVERTY 

THAT'S 

DIFFICULT TO 

IDENTIFY 

additional allowance for a second child 

increased from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000.) Shizuoka 

City resident Ruko Yamagata, whose son 

recently started elementary school, receives 

¥42,320 while also working for a suit company. 

She earns enough to cover food and bills, 

but not much else. “I only work a few hours 

because it’s important to be there when 

my son comes home,” Yamagata says. “The 

money I get is barely enough to put food on 

the table. Days can be physically and mentally 

draining. Things have become easier 

since he graduated from kindergarten, but 

in the future, you have cram school and club 

activities to consider. It feels like a constant 

battle.” After Yamagata divorced her ex-husband, 

he began paying what she describes 

as “a small amount” to assist 

with their son's upbringing. 

The money was reduced after 

he had another baby with his 

second wife, and Yamagata is 

not sure if the payment will 

continue. 

Hayato Hanaoka, program 

director at The Nippon 

Foundation and author of 

the book Kodomo no Hinkon 

ga Nihon wo Horobosu 

(Child Poverty May Destroy 

Japan), says that this situation 

is common in Japan 

because of weak divorce 

laws. "After my father left he didn't pay any 

child allowance," Hanaoka tells us. "When 

couples agree to a kyogi rikon (divorce 

by mutual consent), noncustodial parents 

are usually obliged to pay something for 

the upbringing of their kids, but this isn't 

enforced. Many single parents will receive 

money initially, then it will stop and there's 

nothing they can legally do about it. The 

financial burden can be great because the 

government offers little support.” 

“It's a kind of poverty that's difficult to 

identify. Kids from poor backgrounds often 

have cellphones and computer games, so 

on the surface everything looks fine, yet dig 

deeper and you see families struggling with 

the cost of education. Some can't afford 

cram school, leaving their children at a serious 

disadvantage. Future prospects for students 

from single-parent families are much 

bleaker because their grades are generally 

lower, and a significantly smaller percentage 

go to university. We estimate that the lifetime 

income of children currently aged 15 in Japan 

will be reduced by ¥2.9 trillion, and that will 

cost the government around ¥1.1 trillion.” 

Numerous Japanese NPOs have implemented 

initiatives attempting to break this 

chain of poverty, including Ashinaga, which 

provides interest-free loans for students 

who have lost a parent and are struggling 

financially. Last year, The Nippon Foundation 

opened a facility in Saitama called Third 

Place where up to 20 elementary school children 

can go five days a week between 2pm 

and 9pm to play, study and get a hot meal. 

The plan is to open 100 of them by 2020. 

"The substantial difference between 

our service and children's cafés or free 

cram schools is outreach," Hanaoka says. 

"Children aren't going to voluntarily raise 

their hands, so we knock on doors and visit 

schools to hear about potential problems. 

We assess their needs, then provide counselling 

and one-on-one tutorials. The target 

is children aged seven to 10 because that’s a 

very important time in terms of personal and 

educational development.” The main goal 

of the project is to investigate the long-term 

effects of academic programs for children in 

low-income families, research that Hanaoka 

feels is lacking in Japan. He believes it’s an issue 

the government cares little about, despite 

the ratification of the Law on Measures to 

Counter Child Poverty in 2014. 

“It was the Democratic Party that pushed 

for the new law,” Hanaoka says. “The LDP 

just jumped on the bandwagon as it makes 

it look as though they are doing something 

for kids in need when they don’t actually 

seem to care. With little investment and no 

specific monetary targets for this act, it feels 

like nothing has changed. What it has done 

is raise awareness about the issue and that’s 

something we need to keep pushing.” 

TEAM UP AGAINST 

POVERTY WITH OXFAM 

Established in the UK in 1942, Oxfam 

is a world-wide development organization 

that mobilizes the power 

of people against poverty. From 

June 3 to 5 this year, Oxfam Japan is 

holding the Trailwalker fundraising 

event in Fukushima, in which teams 

of four complete either a 50km or 

100km mountain trail. Money raised 

through Oxfam Trailwalker Tohoku 

2017 will be used to implement projects 

in many of the poorest regions 

of the world to help end poverty and 

provide vital relief following natural 

disasters and conflicts as well as to 

support reconstruction of the Tohoku 

region. For more information and to 

register your team, go to oxfam-mng. 

com/web/web_e.html

MUSICAL NOTES 

FROM THE JAPANESE 

UNDERGROUND 

IF YOU DON’T BELIEVE THERE’S ANYTHING TO JAPANESE MUSIC 

BESIDES SUGARY SWEET J-POP AND ENKA, THEN IAN F. MARTIN’S 

NEW BOOK, QUIT YOUR BAND, IS A MUST-READ. LISA WALLIN SITS 

DOWN WITH THE AUTHOR AND MUSIC AFICIONADO TO HEAR MORE 

ABOUT THE BOOK AND JAPAN’S MUSIC SCENE 

Across from a cluster of holein-the-wall 

bars and izakayas 

under the tracks leading to 

Koenji Station sits Bamii, a 

cozy bar littered – no, piled 

high – with literal towers of vinyl of every 

genre and artist imaginable. The owners 

will play whatever you request, if they 

have it … and it’s very likely they do. It was 

here Weekender met with Japan Times 

columnist, record label owner, and now 

book author Ian F. Martin for an interview 

about his recently released book, Quit Your 

Band: Musical Notes from the Japanese 

Underground. He knows Japanese music as 

a consumer and a record label owner, and 

while he admits he can be biased about his 

favorite bands, his wealth of knowledge on 

the topic is unrivaled. To the sweet sounds 

of David Bowie crooning in the background, 

we asked… 

HOW DID THE BOOK COME ABOUT? 

The publisher, who is also a uni lecturer, 

suggested it four years ago. I said OK right 

away, but it took time to finish. The initial 

plan was to create a compilation of articles 

I’d written for the Japan Times and other 

publications, but I wasn’t really happy 

with the idea of disconnected ideas being 

lumped together. At the same time, the opportunity 

of a book was tempting, as it was 

a canvas I hadn’t had before. In the end, 

I’m still writing essays, but each of them 

is open ended with just enough of a thread 

to keep them together. 

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE 

PART OF THE PROCESS? 

Thinking about writing the book, and 

then once it was done, being able to say, 

“I wrote a book.” [laughs]

I WANT FOREIGN 

READERS TO 

UNDERSTAND THAT 

JAPANESE MUSIC 

ISN’T JUST ALIEN 

AND WEIRD 

WHO SHOULD READ 

THIS BOOK? 

No one needs to read it. But it does give 

a context to Japanese music for foreign 

readers. I want them to understand that 

[Japanese music] isn’t just alien and 

weird – I want them to understand why 

it is the way it is. Japanese music isn’t an 

imitation, it’s not unknowable, and it’s on 

equal terms with Western music. Basically, 

the book sends two messages to different 

people. One is that people should simply 

get used to the system, while at the same 

OFFBEAT LIVE 

VENUES IN TOKYO 

Since live venues are using prime Tokyo 

real estate, they can be small and awkwardly 

shaped. Other than that, they 

tend to be pretty standard fare – dark, 

nondescript interiors. However, there 

are a handful worth visiting regardless 

of the band playing, says Martin… 

SAKURADAI POOL 

A warehouse-style concrete basement 

venue down a narrow, steep staircase, 

with a load of monstrous sculptures and 

imaginary Mad Max-style vehicles made 

out of car parts. mdel.co.jp/pool 

HATAGAYA FORESTLIMIT 

Another raw, chaotic-looking basement 

venue. forestlimit.com 

OCHIAI SOUP 

Similar to ForestLimit, with the twist that 

they project a live video feed of the band 

performing onto the band themselves. 

ochiaisoup.com 

KOENJI MURYOKU MUZENJI 

Mad place, decorated with all kinds of 

weird stuff, but mostly photos, paintings 

and drawings the owner has made of his 

cats. muzenji.o.oo7.jp 

OKUBO SUIZOKUKAN 

Lots of fish. naks.biz/suizokukan 

time understand why it is the way it is. 

Also, I’d like those in the Japanese music 

industry to read it as well, but I’m kind of 

scared if they do… 

ANY FUTURE PROJECTS 

ON THE GO? 

Well, I spent five and a half months cycling 

around all 47 prefectures in Japan, 

so I will have to do a book about that I 

suppose, or my wife will get mad at me. 

She’ll wonder what the point of supporting 

me through that was, so I kind of have 

a responsibility to her if no-one else. I 

did that journey to learn about the local 

indie scenes in each prefecture. I suppose 

it’ll be a book about me, in the end, as all 

travel books are more about the traveler 

than about their travels. 

THE ULTIMATE MUSIC 

QUESTION: FUJI ROCK VS 

SUMMER SONIC? 

Fuji Rock! It forces you to break down 

expectations when you’re cut off from 

the rest of the world. They deliberately 

make you choose between similar bands 

or genres and force you to discover new 

bands either along the way to the next 

gig, or while you’re waiting for your 

band to play. It’s the whole weekend or 

nothing. At the same time, Summer Sonic 

is close to Tokyo and you can ride the last 

train home every day. A friend describes 

the event as “an algorithm for the max 

number of audience; it’s efficiently soulless 

and dead.” It also doesn’t have a real 

camping ground, so it loses something in 

terms of festival credibility there. 

___________________________________________ 

BUY THE BOOK 

Quit Your Band offers a unique insight 

into the Japanese music industry – from 

its history to its current scene, foibles, 

and issues, and its potential future. If 

you don’t know where to start when it 

comes to Japanese music, or if you don’t 

believe there’s anything besides sugary 

sweet J-pop and enka, then this book is a 

must-read. Martin takes us on a downthe-rabbit-hole 

adventure through the ins 

and outs of the Japanese indie world and 

beyond, explaining the history and the 

“scene” of Japanese music. 

Quit Your Band – Music Notes from the Underground 

is available at Tokyo bookstores 

and on Amazon. 

For more by Ian F. Martin, see his 

Japan Times columns, his travel blog: 

burnyourhometown.wordpress.com, his 

music blog: clearandrefreshing.wordpress. 

com, and his record label’s website: 

callandresponse.jimdo.com 

M 

BEYOND 

J-POP 

Ian F. Martin recommends five 

albums to give you an intro to 

Japanese music 

“A LONG VACA- 

TION” BY EIICHI 

OHTAKI 

Immaculately 

produced, Beach 

Boys-influenced pop 

album by the former 

guitarist of Happy 

End. Spans the border between New Music 

and City Pop but manages to be something 

unique in itself. 

“ROOMIC CUBE” 

BY TAKAKO 

MINEKAWA 

The Shibuya-kei 

scene placed huge 

importance on the 

aesthetics of the 

music, but Takako 

Minekawa’s music also had this intimate, 

introverted quality to it that gives it an 

affecting sort of fragile honesty. Her albums 

also just explode with ideas and tunes galore. 

“IONIZATION” BY 

YOLZ IN THE SKY 

Starting out as a 

slightly off-kilter 

Osaka-based 

hardcore band, Yolz 

In The Sky morphed 

gradually into a sort 

of sparse, psychedelic techno duo. “Ionization” 

is the brutally minimal postpunk link between 

their hardcore and dance phases, and it’s 

magnificent. 

“HIKASHU” BY HIKASHU 

A key album in the early development of new 

wave and technopop (it features a magnificent 

cover of Kraftwerk’s “The Model”), there’s also 

something dark and theatrical about it that 

puts it in the tradition of Shuji Terayama, J A 

Seazer and Tokyo Kid Brothers. 

“THREE OUT CHANGE” BY SUPERCAR 

This is just an epic indie rock/shoegaze album 

and one of the all-time great Japanese rock 

albums that also stands proudly alongside 

almost any comparable music that came out 

of the UK or US in the 90s. 


[ PROMOTION ] 

Chef extraordinaire Bill Granger 

on being inspired by Japan’s 

visual culture, what he learnt 

from his butcher father and 

grandfather, and his favorite 

Bills branches including the 

latest opening in Ginza 

Interview by Catherine Ramshaw 

Moving away from a focus on laidback 

breakfasts, Bills recently opened 

a smart new branch in downtown 

Ginza, marking their seventh 

opening in Japan (fourth in Tokyo). 

Although you can still tuck into the signature creamy 

scrambled eggs and ricotta pancakes, there’s plenty 

more to look forward to here, including delights 

such as lobster linguine, yellow fish curry, wagyu 

burgers, and even a high tea menu. We met up with 

the man behind the brand, Bill Granger, in London 

to chat about his transition from artist to 

restaurateur, how his gap year in Japan influenced 

his style, and how he pushes people out of their 

food comfort zones. 

ONE OF YOUR FIRST LOVES WAS ART. WHAT 

ROLE DOES VISUAL ART STILL PLAY IN HOW 

YOU PREPARE YOUR MENUS AND PLAN YOUR 

RESTAURANTS? 

I started life as an art student, first studying architecture, 

then I changed over to fine arts, and I think for me the 

creative vision is always the start of everything. I’m excited 

by the visual; so whether it’s the way that food looks or 

the interiors of the restaurant, it’s the whole presentation. 

Restaurants are such a visual experience, so it’s still really 

important to me. 

© Anson Smart 


© Mikkel Vang 

FOR ME, THE 

CREATIVE VISION IS 

ALWAYS THE START 

OF EVERYTHING 

so that they’re comfortable. They’re not 

meant to be fine dining establishments, 

they’re meant to be pretty relaxed. Our 

dishes are based on food you want to eat 

all the time but also get excited about. Food 

is like fashion and you’re constantly getting 

new flavors that are coming through. 

In the past few years there have been so 

many more textures and different grains, 

CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE 

TRANSITION YOU MADE FROM AN ARTIST 

WHO WAS WAITING TABLES TO OPENING 

YOUR FIRST RESTAURANT? WERE THERE 

ANY REALLY PIVOTAL MOMENTS? 

Working with art is a solitary pursuit. I 

You’ve got to love people. My father, 

having been a butcher was very good 

at talking to people. Both my father and 

grandfather loved customers and I think 

that’s the most important thing in the 

restaurant business too. It’s not about 

nuts and seeds being used, so it’s always 

important for me to try new flavors and 

see what’s going on. I love going to other 

restaurants and seeing what people are 

using, and what’s happening. It’s fun. 

It’s very much like fashion in that way. 

started working in a restaurant part-time 

your ego or yourself; a lot of people 

to get some money whilst I studied, and fell 

misunderstand that when they start a 

in love with the collaborative effort and 

restaurant. You’re creating an empty space 

the energy of it. My father and grandfather 

that your customers are putting their lives 

had owned butcher shops, and so that idea 

into. You’ve got to be humble, you’ve got to 

of shop keeping was really normal for me. 

like people, and like working with people, 

When I was 22 my grandfather gave me 

getting the best out of them and inspiring 

some money, which he’d set aside for all of 

them to deliver the best possible results. 

his grand kids to borrow a little bit from, 


so I thought what I’m going to do is open a 

restaurant, and it would almost be like my 

shop. That’s how it started. 

YOU WEREN’T FORMALLY TRAINED AS A 

CHEF, SO WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS 

THAT HAVE HELPED YOU SUCCEED IN 

AN INDUSTRY THAT CAN OFTEN CHEW 

PEOPLE UP AND THEN SPIT THEM OUT? 

YOU SPENT YOUR GAP YEAR IN JAPAN 

WHEN YOU WERE 19; DID THAT 

EXPERIENCE HAVE AN INFLUENCE ON 

YOUR PERSONAL STYLE, AND YOUR 

STYLE AS A RESTAURATEUR? 

Absolutely. I’d grown up in the 80s when 

the Japanese influence and aesthetic was 

really big in terms of popular culture, 

music and style. Then when I went there 

in the early 90s I was totally blown away 

by the Japanese attitude to the visual – the 

craft in the way people dressed, interiors, 

objects; it’s an incredibly visual culture, 

which was really inspiring to me. I was 

also inspired by how people ate well all the 

time, not just in the really high end places, 

but in the simple udon or ramen shops. 

Even cheap places were still beautifully 

designed and thought out, and that really 

inspired me when I was first starting Bills. 


OUT OF THE MANY RESTAURANTS THAT 

YOU’VE OPENED SINCE 1993, DO YOU 

HAVE ANY FAVORITES? 

There are different restaurants in different 

countries that feel a bit more emotional. 

The first Bills in Sydney is very important to 

me, because that’s where I learnt my trade. 

I think in Japan I love Shichirigahama, 

our first restaurant on the ocean – that’s 

beautiful. I love Omotesando because it’s 

right in the center and when I was on my 

gap year I used to live around there, so it 

HOW DO YOU STRIKE A BALANCE 

BETWEEN COMFORT FOOD AND 

PUSHING PEOPLE PAST THEIR COMFORT 

ZONES WITH NEW AND INTERESTING 

OFFERINGS? 

The interiors of my restaurants are 

reminds me of being a 20-year-old. Our 

new restaurant in Ginza is absolutely 

beautiful and I think London, Notting Hill 

which is close to my home is a favorite. 

It’s my local as well. 

everyday places – almost home. When 

For more information about Bills 

people come in, the environment is created 

restaurants in Japan, visit billsjapan.com/jp 


[ PROMOTION ] 

EXPLORE 

THE SPECIAL 

GARDENS 

OF YOKOHAMA 

THIS MONTH, THE GARDEN NECKLACE 2017 

EVENT GIVES THE CITY’S ALREADY BEAUTIFUL 

PARKS AND GARDENS AN EXTRA DOSE OF COLOR 

Words by Matthew Hernon 

A 

vibrant and picturesque city 

known for its historic downtown 

port district, futuristic architecture 

and unique museums, 

Yokohama is arguably one of Japan’s most 

attractive sightseeing areas. It’s a place that’s 

worth visiting at any time of year, though 

we recommend taking a trip there sometime 

in the next couple of months to enjoy the 

Garden Necklace flower event that’s taking 

place until June 4. With over one million 

flowers on display at various destinations, 

it’s all part of the National Urban Greenery 

Fair, which helps cities promote their efforts 

and contributions to a greener society. 

Here’s a quick look at the different gardens 

and activities you can enjoy… 

MINATO GARDENS 

Minato Gardens refers to a cluster of parks 

alongside Yokohama’s waterfront, including 

Yamashita Park and Harbor View Park. 

These are popular tourist spots and were 

a natural choice for the centerpiece of the 

Garden Necklace event. A delightful area 

for a gentle stroll, it’s especially alluring 

right now because of the sea of flowers on 

show. Highlights include thousands of tulips 

(30,000 in total in all of Yokohama) and 

three resplendent rose gardens. There’s also 

a chance to see a large statue of the Green 

Harbor View Park 

Satoyama Gardens 

Necklace mascot, Garden Bear, who sports 

a mega perm of blooming flowers. Nearby 

is the Jacqueline Garden that was designed 

and supervised by renowned Dutch 

horticulturist Jacqueline van der Kloet. It 

features a wide range of bulb combinations 

with an emphasis on the color red. 

SATOYAMA GARDENS 

Moving further away from the center of the 

city into the suburbs, the Satoyama Gardens 

are located next to Yokohama Zoo “Zoorasia.” 

Here, you can enjoy 10,000 square 

meters of flowers – the largest display in the 

city. With cherry trees in the background 

and a colorful mix of pansies, rape blossoms 

and tulips, it makes for quite a sight. From 

late April to early May onwards, the garden 

will have a different look with petunias, 

salvias and irises in full bloom. 

It is then just a short walk across Forest 

Lane to the Yato Japanese Iris Garden where 

you can enjoy the splendid contrast between 

the purple irises and Kerria japonica 

surrounded by luscious green trees. A little 

further along the outer garden path is the 

Yato Rape Flower Field with rape blossoms 

blooming beautifully and Hana no Satoyama 

with its assortment of colors. While in the vicinity, 

there is a chance to do some glamping 

(short for glamorous camping) and take on 

the challenge of the forest adventure course. 

Sankei-en 

SANKEI-EN 

If you are not already flowered out by the 

Minato and Satoyama gardens then we 

highly recommend a visit to Sankei-en. 

Probably Yokohama’s most idyllic garden, 

it’s a delightful place to wander around 

throughout the four seasons; however, it is 

particularly enchanting in spring. As well as 

the cherry trees, you can see wisterias, water 

lilies and azaleas to name but a few. 

The area was designed and landscaped 

by silk trader Sankei Hara (real name 

Tomitaro Hara) in the early part of the 20th 

century. To make Sankei-en particularly 

special he decided to buy, dismantle and 

then reconstruct a number of historically 

significant structures from around the 

country to exhibit at the 175,000 squaremeter 

garden. Ten of them have been 

declared Important Cultural Properties, 

including the three-story pagoda relocated 

from Tomyoji Temple in Kyoto, and the 

old Yanohara House, the former private 

residence of the Yanohara family. 

You can learn more about Tomitaro 

Hara at the Sankei Memorial Hall, where 

there is also an opportunity to try some 

delicious matcha tea with some Japanese 

confectionery. 

For more information, go to tinyurl.com/ 

TWgarden-necklace2017 


N. S. Harsha, Sky Gazers, 2010 / 2017, Acrylic on plywood, 975.4 × 488 cm, Photo: Shiigi Shizune, Photo courtesy: Mori Art Museum, Tokyo 

HAVE A LOOK AROUND 

Take a gander at the work of one of India's rising art stars, be enlightened by a 16th 

century Zen painter, and get out and enjoy the weather at this month's festivals. 

TOKYO TOKYO WEEKENDER WEEKENDER | DECEMBER | | MARCH MAY 2017 2016 | | 33

ART & MUSIC 

N.S. HARSHA: CHARMING JOURNEY 

Harsha is an Indian artist whose reputation is on the rise. The wide variety of his work, which ranges from massive, detail-rich 

canvases filled with hundreds of characters to complex installation pieces and public art, invites viewers to think about everything 

from the relentlessly fast pace of global economies and the high-tech industry to the deep roots of ancient beliefs that still 

animate life in the world’s second most populous country. Mori Art Museum Until June 11 www.mori.art.museum 

N. S. Harsha, Punarapi Jananam Punarapi Maranam (Again Birth, Again Death), 2013, Acrylic on canvas, 

tarpaulin, 365.8 × 2407.9 cm, Photo: Shiigi Shizune, Photo courtesy: Mori Art Museum, Tokyo 

THE ART WORLD 

OUR PICK OF THE CITY’S BEST EXHIBITIONS 

Compiled by Alec Jordan 

Sesson Shukei, Wind and Waves (Important Cultural Property), 22.1×31.4cm, Nomura 

Art Museum, Kyoto 

SESSON: A SINGULAR 

PAINTER 

Not much is known about the Zen 

monk and painter Sesson Shukei: 

he was born in what is now Ibaraki 

Prefecture, and traveled between 

Kanto and Tohoku during his life. But 

from this limited biography sprang 

a striking oeuvre, featuring carefully 

rendered landscapes and human 

figures whose bold vibrancy may 

have inspired legendary Edo period 

artists such as Jakuchu. This exhibition 

includes about 100 of Sesson’s works, 

and some 30 pieces by artists who 

followed in his footsteps. (Some pieces 

will be replaced during the exhibition.) 

The University Art Museum, Tokyo 

University of the Arts Until May 21 

sesson2017.jp/english.html 


M 

MUSIC 

Three singles that will get your 

feet tapping to the tune of warmer 

weather (compiled by James Wong) 

THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF MASAMICHI KATAYAMA 

“LIFE IS HARD…LET’S GO SHOPPING” 

The mind behind the interiors of UNIQLO flagship stores around the world, 

high-end fashion boutiques, and Tokyo’s INTERSECT BY LEXUS, Masamichi 

Katayama has made a name for himself as a design figure to follow. At his 

installation show at the Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery, Katayama is returning 

to the punk aesthetic (“putting the boot in,” as he calls it) that inspired 

him from his early days, mixing and matching up surreal interiors from 

his personal collection that combine everything from fine art to taxidermy. 

Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery Until June 25 www.operacity.jp/ag/exh196/ 

index_e.php 

FOREST MEMORIES: YOSHIHIKO UEDA 

What can we learn by 

spending time among the 

trees? This collection of 

large format photographs 

– taken in the Pacific 

Northwestern US and on 

the island of Yakushima 

– offers a few answers: 

an appreciation of the 

flow that occurs among 

disparate objects in the environment, 

the influences 

that geological forces play 

on developing forests, and 

a very deep sense of time. 

A great opportunity to see 

the work of this thoughtful 

photographer, whose work 

often appears on the walls 

of this venue. Gallery 916 

Until July 2 gallery916.com 

CALVIN 

HARRIS FEAT. 

YOUNG THUG, 

PHARRELL 

WILLIAMS 

AND ARIANA 

GRANDE – 

“HEATSTROKE” 

Summer isn’t really summer without a Calvin 

Harris anthem, and this year “Heatstroke” 

is certain to blaze through pool parties and 

festivals across the globe. Harris teams up with 

the man who is always in the moment, Pharrell 

Williams, and rounds off with Young Thug and 

Ariana Grande. This is 2017’s answer to Justin 

Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop The Feeling!” 

bit.ly/TWHeatstroke 

DUA LIPA – “HOT- 

TER THAN HELL 

(MIIKE SNOW 

REMIX)” 

The lady on 

everyone’s lips, Dua 

Lipa has been hailed 

as the next big thing 

for months now and 

finally drops her debut album in Japan this June. 

“Hotter Than Hell” provides a strong indicator of 

what to expect and this remix by Swedish indiepop 

group Miike Snow propels the 21-year old Brit 

beyond the spectrum of cool. bit.ly/TWDuaLipa 

JAMIROQUAI – 

“SOMETHING 

ABOUT YOU” 

It’s easy for 90s 

superstars to rely 

on “Greatest Hits” 

comebacks, but that’s 

not for Jamiroquai. 

The 47-year-old Jay 

Kay and co are celebrating their relevance among 

today’s generation with an album of new material 

that’s been hitting number one in over 30 

countries. “Something About You” is a disco-funk, 

acid-jazz number that bridges the gap until Daft 

Punk’s next record. bit.ly/TWJamiroquai 

©Yoshihiko Ueda, Quinault No.1, 1990-1991 


1 

3 

2 

4 

7 

8 

5 6 

AGENDA: THE WEEKENDER ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MAY 

1 

MAY 1-28 

2 

MAY 11-17 

3 

MAY 20-21 

4 

MAY 1-30 

SHOWA KINEN PARK 

FLOWER FESTIVAL 

Now that sakura season is over, 

explore a selection of wild flowers, 

including poppies, baby’s breath, 

cornflowers and more. 

Where: Showa Kinen Park 

How much: ¥410 

More info: tinyurl.com/ 

TWshowakinen 

KANDA MATSURI 

One of the three great festivals 

of Edo, this traditional event goes 

on for six days and features about a 

hundred mikoshi parading through 

the streets. 

Where: Kanda Myojin Shrine 

How much: Free 

More info: www.kandamyoujin.or.jp/ 

kandamatsuri 

ITALIA, AMORE MIO 

This one's for lovers of all things 

Italian. Expect plenty of guests, 

a stylish showcase of top Italian 

brands, performances, concerts, 

talk sessions – and some tasty 

cuisine. 

Where: Roppongi Hills 


More info: italia-amore-mio.com 

ATTACK ON SKYTREE 

Terrifying anime Titans appear in, 

on, and around Tokyo Skytree in 

this special collaboration event 

where visitors can enjoy original 

animations and Titan-themed food. 

Where: Tokyo Skytree 


More info: www.tokyo-skytree.jp/ 

event/special/shingeki2017 

MAY 20-21 

GREENROOM FESTIVAL 

Music, art and film festival by 

the water inspired by beach and 

surf culture. Artists include Ray 

Barbee, The New Mastersounds 

and Jake Bugg. 

Where: Yokohama Red Brick 

Warehouse 

How much: ¥11,900-¥19,000 

More info: greenroom.jp 

6 MAY 26 

DR. SKETCHY'S ANTI-ART 

SCHOOL, TOKYO 

An international alternative art event 

where burlesque models pose for art 

stars and sketching newbies alike with 

drinks and arty socializing. 

Where: Studio & Space Ivva 

How much: ¥2,000, including 1 drink 

More info: www. 

studioandspaceivva.com/en/ 

5 7 

MAY 6, 27 & 31 

BABY FREELY ART EVENT 

A chance for children aged around 

two and their parents to create 

\art together. This event’s theme 

is The Earth. 

Where: Chiiku Lab 

How much: Parent & child pair ¥3,500; 

additional family member ¥1,000 

More info: coubic.com/ 

chiikulab/330835 

8 MAY 1-16 

EUROPEAN MODE 

An exploration of black dresses 

throughout history, from Rococo 

gowns to Dior’s most famous 

silhouette and to the modern version 

of the little black dress. 

Where: Bunka Gakuen Costume 

Museum 

How much: ¥500 

More info: museum.bunka.ac.jp 


Aoyama Cemetary 

「Glass」2017 oil on canvas 60.6cm × 50.0cm 

Hokkaien 

Gaien West St. 

Nogisaka Station 

The National 

Art Center, Tokyo 

National Graduate 

Institute for Policy Studies 

Gaien East St. 

Shitsu Murayama / Kids know 

Saturday 13th May- Sunday 4th June, 2017 

Opening Hours: 12:00 - 19:00 | Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays 

Opening Reception: Friday May 12th from 18:00 onwards 

To Shibuya Otora 

Hiroo Station 

Gonpachi Roppongi Dori 

Nishi-Azabu Intersection 

Roppongi Hills 

Mori Art Museum 

Roppongi Station 

NANATASU GALLERY 

〒 106-0031 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Nishi-Azabu 2-12-4 Ogura building 3F 

Te l : 03-6419-7229 | Web: www.na n a t a s u . j p 

Where to find 

TOKYO WEEKENDER MAGAZINE 

WANT TO MAKE SURE YOU PICK UP A COPY EVERY MONTH? 

HERE’S WHERE TO GET YOUR HANDS ON THE MAG 

DOWNLOAD 

VENUES AROUND TOKYO 

SUBSCRIBE 

MORE INFORMATION AT WWW.TOKYOWEEKENDER.COM 


[ PROMOTION ] 

MASTER THE FORMALITIES 

You may have your basic self-introduction in Japanese down, but are you ready to take things 

to another level? Here are a few tips to giving the kind of formal introductory speech that 

you’ll use with your coworkers in more “buttoned-up” situations. We’ll give you the phrases 

first in Japanese, then in romaji, and finally in English, followed by a bit of an explanation. 

1 

はじめまして、Aと申します。 

一生懸命がんばりますので、 

4 

Hajimemashite, A to moushi masu. 

Isshoukenmei ganbarimasu node 

Nice to meet you, my name is A. 

So, I will do my best. 

The heart of the word “hajimemashite” 

means “begin,” and it’s 

the start of almost every introduction 

you’ll ever read. 

Isshoukenmei literally means “I 

will do this thing with all my heart 

and all my life.” It sounds a little 

over the top but its basic meaning 

is “I'll do my best.” 

2 

今日からABCセクションに 

配属されました。 

Kyou kara ABC Section ni haizoku 

saremashita. 

Starting from today, I have been 

assigned to the ABC Section. 

Haizoku means assignment. With the 

verb saremashita, the phrase becomes 

passive and takes on the meaning 

“was assigned to.” 

どうぞよろしくお願いします。 

Douzo yoroshiku onegai shimasu. 

Word for word, this phrase means 

“please be kind to me,” but think of 

it more like “I’m looking forward to 

working with you.” To dial up the 

politeness level, replace douzo with 

nanitozo. 

5 

3 

わからないことばかりですが、 

Wakaranai koto bakari desu ga… 

Although there are lots of things I 

don't know yet… 

Wakaranai = don't know, koto = things 

bakari = everything or all of the 

things, desu = is, ga = though, but 

BUT YOU SAID YOU WERE GOING TO STUDY JAPANESE... 

Would you like to finally be able to speak Japanese? 

Are cross cultural misunderstandings holding you 

back in business and your personal life in Japan? If 

so, find out how Japan Management & Communication 

(JM&C) can help you achieve your personal, 

business and language goals through our personalized 

training programs. For more information on our 

courses please visit jmctokyo.com/japanese/ 

Contact Tel: 03 5423 0531 | Email: jmc@jconcept.co.jp 

Address: Hasebe No.2 Bldg, 2F, 5-21-2 Hiroo, Shibuya Ku 


INSPIRING MINDS 

Our spring Education Special brings you news from some of Tokyo's top international 

schools, including a brand-new middle school that's set to open this September. 

TOKYO TOKYO WEEKENDER WEEKENDER | DECEMBER | | MARCH MAY 2017 2016 | | 39


[ PROMOTION ] 

A Perfect Balance 

As Camelot International School prepares to open a middle school this September, they 

continue to offer affordable quality education that’s more than just about high test scores 

Eleven years ago, when Kayoko Sugawara 

founded Camelot as an international preschool, 

she would never have imagined 

that she would go on to open both an 

elementary and a middle school. But her 

unique teaching philosophies, combined with 

affordable fees, have made Camelot so popular 

that Sugawara has boldly continued to expand. 

We sat down with Camelot Director Sugawara, 

new Head of School Russell Bowley, and the 

new Head of Middle School Graeme Peel, to 

hear more about the school’s plans. 

WHY DO YOU FEEL THERE’S A 

NEED FOR A NEW INTERNATIONAL 

MIDDLE SCHOOL IN TOKYO? 

Sugawara: Three years ago, I opened Camelot’s 

elementary school. Even though it was a risk 

and a challenge, we now have around 40 

students and have recently moved to a bigger 

location in Kotake-Mukaihara to accommodate 

even more. Parents have always told me that 

they would keep their children at Camelot if 

they could, so I felt the next logical step was to 

open a middle school. Our fees 

are in line with the international 

courses offered by Japanese 

schools [¥800,000 per year for 

pre-school; ¥1,150,000 per year 

for elementary school], so it’s 

a good option for returnees 

or foreign students who can’t 

afford more expensive international 

schools. Good quality 

international education should 

be more broadly available, 

which means it has to be more 

affordable. 

Peel: Although there are some 

Japanese schools offering international 

courses, I have found 

there is a conflict between 

what these schools are trying to strike as 

a traditional, private Japanese school and 

what you need to be learning to get into 

universities in, say, the US or England. At 

Camelot, we offer a high standard of education, 

but with international values and a 

reduced cost to the parents. 

Bowley: Absolutely. Our philosophy places 

emphasis on individuals and their needs. 

The more that students learn about themselves 

and the world they inhabit, the more 

they are able to make wise decisions about 

their own educational choices. 

COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR 

TEACHING STYLE? 

Sugawara: We have always had a very fluid 

system that allows each student to adapt 

their daily class schedule to suit their level. 

For example, if a student is in grade 3 but 

their math or English is at a lower level, 

then for those subjects they can join a class 

in a lower grade. They can also jump up 

to a more advanced class where 

necessary. Also, I believe that a 

good education isn’t just about 

getting good scores on tests; it’s 

also about developing as a human 

being and learning how to build 

relationships. 

Peel: What I’ve found is that 

the aspects of adolescence that 

people find negative are often a 

reaction to traditional teaching 

and education. When you create 

an environment in which students 

have a drive, and they’re 

independently wanting to learn, 

they’re far more self-motivated. 

Bowley: It’s important that students feel 

they have ownership of the learning process. 

Everything they learn has to be relevant to 

them and their own paths. We want to create an 

environment that encourages enquiring minds. 

HOW DO YOU BALANCE 

TRADITIONAL EDUCATION 

WITH THIS WAY OF THINKING? 

Peel: My approach has always been to do 

things in class around what the students are 

interested in, and following that they are 

motivated to go home and study for tests 

independently. I think that you can achieve 

the goals that traditional education sets out 

without ever doing it in a traditional way. 

Bowley: I agree. Student interest is the most 

important thing. The idea of study as a joy 

and a fascination supports and transcends 

the goals of traditional education. 

HOW DO YOU STRUCTURE THE 

CURRICULUM? 

Sugawara: At our elementary school, our focus 

is IPC (International Primary Curriculum), 

but we use the American Core Standard for 

language art, and the Singapore and American 

Core Standard for Math. 

Peel: For the middle school, we’re still developing 

the curriculum but I think it’s important 

to have some accreditation such as the Cambridge 

or AP qualifications, and an external 

examination board. We want to reassure 

parents of the standards we’re reaching for. 

Applications for Camelot International Middle 

School are now open. For more information 

visit camelot.tokyo.jp, call 03-5948-3993 or 

email info@camelot.tokyo.jp

Play 

SMART 

This is how brain 

power gets its start. 

Motoazabu, Jiyugaoka & LalaPort Yokohama 

Try a FREE class today! 

www.gymboree.jp 


[ PROMOTION ] 

5 REASONS TO CHOOSE 

THE BRITISH SCHOOL IN TOKYO 

How BST continues to lead in creating a well-rounded learning environment 

Asked why they chose The British 

School in Tokyo (BST) for their sons 

and daughters, many of our parents 

say that the children here are cheerful, 

grounded, at ease with themselves 

and each other – and excited by the 

challenges set before them. They might add 

that the school succeeds in balancing high 

academic expectation with a wealth of extra-curricular 

opportunity, all founded on the 

highest standards of pastoral care and a deep 

commitment to the needs and enthusiasms of 

the individual. We take a deeper look at some 

of the top reasons why BST is becoming the 

first choice for many families. 

1. NO STEREOTYPES 

From their early years in our Nursery and 

Reception classes, all children are valued 

for who they are and given the freedom to 

develop the independence and resilience that 

will enable them to take the next step in their 

education wherever it might take them, with 

confidence and a smile. In essence, BST is a 

school and a community where there will 

never be stereotypes. 

2. HIGH 

STANDARDS 

The British School in 

Tokyo is an accredited 

member of the Council 

of British International 

Schools and one of 

only a small number of 

schools worldwide to 

have been independently 

inspected according 

to the UK standards 

for British Schools 

Overseas, and judged 

to be excellent in every 

category. Situated on 

two central sites at the 

heart of this vibrant 

city, this year for the 

first time in its history, the 

school is home to over 1,000 students. 

There are many reasons to explain the 

remarkable surge in student enrolment at 

BST in recent years but foremost among 

them is the widespread recognition that 

this is a school where young people of all 

abilities from the most diverse backgrounds 

can find their niche and fulfil their potential. 

Since 2012 we have seen the number of 15 

to 18-year-old students on our IGCSE and A 

Level courses more than double to almost 

250; examination results have progressed to 

the point where they match the gold standard 

set by the United Kingdom independent 

sector and our graduates are winning places 

at some of the most prestigious universities 

around the world. 

3. TOP TEACHERS 

The very best schools, of course, are 

built on the talent, enthusiasm and 

experience of outstanding teachers. 

At BST we recruit staff with great 

care, almost exclusively from the 

UK and from select British-style 

international schools around the 

world. Every one of our teachers 

is a life-long learner, keen to maintain 

the highest level of subject 

knowledge and to keep abreast of 

the latest developments in pedagogical 

best practice. Our parents 

know that they can count on the 

commitment and dedication of a 

FOR THE FIRST TIME 

IN ITS HISTORY, THE 

SCHOOL IS HOME TO 

OVER 1,000 STUDENTS 

highly qualified team who set themselves and 

their students the very highest standards. 

4. NEW COURSES 

At the start of the 2017/18 academic year in 

September, we will be introducing significant 

new areas of study for our older students. 

These include university entry-level courses 

in Computer Science, Economics and – 

further strengthening our highly successful 

arts programme – Drama & Theatre Studies. 

5. BROAD PERSPECTIVES 

BST is, of course, much more than an A Level 

school. All examinations are important, and 

many parents are impressed by the rigour 

and structured progression of our particular 

brand of British education from the age of 

three through to 18. That said, our young people 

here know that education is not simply 

about passing exams. Sport, music and drama 

are woven into the fabric of school life, and 

we see both community service and adventurous 

activity as significant strengths. 

For more information, visit www.bst.ac.jp 


Expanding 

World Views 

How Aoba-Japan’s successful Extension Program is growing, 

[ PROMOTION ] 

and what to look forward to at this year’s Summer Camp 

Since 2013, Aoba-Japan’s 

innovative Extension 

Program has been adding 

to its lineup, and over the 

last year they’ve held spring, summer, 

autumn and winter camps, 

as well as two sports camps. As 

demand for their unique approach 

to community education programs 

grows, AJE is establishing a unique 

identity for itself, says director 

Greg Culos. “Aoba now has five different 

schools around Tokyo. This expansion has 

opened up opportunities for AJE to offer a wider 

variety of extension programs. For example, 

we have just added a Saturday program at our 

IT’S ABOUT 

INSPIRING 

THE KIDS 

Waseda location based on the same 

principles of applied learning that 

define our camp programs,” he says. 

“Aoba’s core primary and secondary 

programs run Monday to Friday, 

but there’s a demand for weekend, 

evening, and seasonal learning opportunities. 

So we’re creating a series of 

programs that can be delivered anywhere, 

in order to meet the needs of 

anyone seeking rewarding learning 

opportunities beyond the classroom 

– as the word ‘extension’ suggests, 

AJE is open to everyone, including 

students coming from abroad.” 

So how is the Extension 

Program set apart from the core education 

programs? AJE is described 

as offering “fun and inspiring 

experiential programs in an applied 

international learning context 

to enrich their formal education 

responsibilities.” Expressing this 

less formally, Culos says, “It’s about 

inspiring the kids by giving them 

opportunities beyond the ordinary 

to experiment a little, explore a little, 

adventure a little – essentially, giving 

them exposure to different things.” 

The group does this through seasonal camps, 

continuing programs, and annual events, all of 

which are fun, challenging, and rewarding. The 

programs focus on themes of communication, 

sports, culture, friendship and new experiences. 

The summer camp now attracts around 250 

children. 10% of them come from abroad or 

from other parts of Japan. “There is a market for 

people wanting to come here to be immersed 

in things Japanese, but grow and even graduate 

within the kind of international context we 

offer,” says Culos. “It’s a fairly new notion, but 

I think this could catch on. In the meantime, 

our camps offer 

international students the 

chance to come to Japan 

for days or weeks, experience 

the culture, learn 

a bit of the language, and 

expand their world views.” 

SIGN UP FOR AJE’S 

SUMMER CAMP 2017 

Held over five weeks from July 17 to 

August 18, the summer camp’s theme is 

“Communication Unites the World.” Children 

can join for individual weeks, or stay 

for the full five weeks – those coming from 

abroad can be accommodated through 

Homestay Japan, which places foreign 

students with Japanese families. 

“The idea is to give kids as many 

different types of experiential opportunities 

to communicate with each other as 

possible,” says Culos. And as the camp’s 

jam-packed lineup shows, there’s never a 

dull moment. The weeks are themed on 

different continents, and each day begins 

with morning classes drawn from a curriculum 

based around a continent’s people, 

food, geography, language and so on. 

These topics are explored and expressed 

in many ways, including arts and crafts, 

drama performances, role playing, and 

guest visitors. “The learning is focused 

more on the reasons for and context of 

discussion, and problems we might be 

trying to solve. It’s not so much about 

grammar, reading and writing – it’s more 

about language in context,” says Culos. 

The afternoons are full of age-appropriate 

activities, including making model 

rockets, learning pottery skills, climbing 

mountains, river rafting, tree swinging, 

water sports, and more. “There’s also a 

Family Day once a week, and in the final 

week we have a big Olympiad where 

everyone is welcome to come back and 

join in – even if they only took part in 

one or two weeks of the camp.” 

For more information and to sign 

up for AJE’s Summer Camp 2017, 

visit www.campsinjapan.com

Bewitched by 

the Travel Gods 

…And those very early summer mornings! 

Words by Brian Christian 

The months and days are the 

travellers of eternity. 

The years that come and go 

are also voyagers. 

Those who float away their 

lives on ships or who grow 

old leading horses are forever 

journeying, 

and their homes are wherever 

their travels take them. 

Anyone with even the faintest 

interest in Japanese literature 

will have recognised the famous 

opening to Basho’s Narrow Road 

to the Deep North, three short sentences that 

may have brought to the surface all manner 

of memories for those among you who remember 

having to learn them off by heart in 

senior high school. Now considered the most 

renowned literary figure of the Edo period, 

the hallowed haiku-master was a compulsive 

traveller who, despite being denied the 

opportunity to see the world beyond the 

confines of his own country, found much to 

satisfy his wander-lust along the mountain 

trails of his native islands. 

When spring came and there was mist in 

the air… 

Everything about me was bewitched by 

the travel gods... The spirits of the roads 

beckoned. 

The pilgrimage that inspired his greatest 

work begins, so he tells us, in 1689 on the 

27th day of the third month when he sets out 

from Tokyo while the cherry blossoms are 

in full bloom. Given that the world shivered 

through a mini ice-age throughout the seventeenth 

century, the flowering sakura give us 

a clue that the date is not all it seems. Almost 

200 years would pass before Japan would 

finally adopt the modern western calendar 

and, under the old lunar system, late March 

might well be the equivalent to a spring day 

closer to the end of April. 

Today there are few among us who grow 

old leading horses but I suspect that I won’t 

be alone in succumbing to the siren voices 

of the travel gods as the early-rising summer 

sun warms the morning air and the days 

begin to lengthen. To be fair, it’s hard not to 

feel restless when sunlight starts streaming 

relentlessly through your bedroom windows 

just a few short hours after you’ve taken to 

your bed. No wonder Basho felt compelled 

to head north! It’s true that in Japan we 

enjoy long summer days; the only problem 

is that the sun rises soon after four and sets 

at seven. What is it with this country and 

daylight-saving? 

For those of us fortunate enough to have 

lived in and travelled to some of the most 

visited cities in Europe – London, Paris, 

Rome – many of our fondest memories have 

been conceived in the sunlit shade of early 

summer evenings. There are few great cities 

of the world blessed with the endless blue 

skies of Tokyo’s winter so for most the long, 

IT’S HARD NOT TO 

FEEL RESTLESS WHEN 

SUNLIGHT STARTS 

STREAMING THROUGH 

YOUR BEDROOM 

WINDOWS 

light evenings of May bring a welcome 

release from the dank, dark grip of earlier 

months. The result? The vibrant café culture 

of Copenhagen and the buzzing bars and 

restaurants of Barcelona. 

2016 was a record year for the Japanese 

tourist industry with almost 24 million visitors 

spending a cool 33 billion dollars. Good 

news? Perhaps – but the rate of growth in 

both the number of tourists and the amount 

they spent here was significantly down on 

the previous 12 months, suggesting that the 

government’s target of 40 million visitors 

spending around 70 billion dollars by 2020 

may be well out of reach. Might the allure of 

lighter summer evenings make a difference? 

When Basho walked the narrow road to the 

deep north, each of his days on foot ended 

with the twilight of early summer sunsets; 

will the next few years change all that? Moving 

the clocks forward by an hour – or even 

two – could provide just the boost Japan 

needs as it prepares to host the Rugby World 

Cup and the Games of the XXXII Olympiad. 

Why not make the most of this precious time 

in the global spotlight and bring the evening 

streets to life? 

Brian Christian is Principal of The British 

School in Tokyo. 


People, 

Parties, Places 

TOKYO’S LONGEST RUNNING SOCIETY PAGE WITH BILL HERSEY 

It's hard to believe that Easter has come and gone, and 

Golden Week’s pretty much had it by the time you read this. 

I like to quote my dear grandmother, who often said, “The 

older you get, the faster it goes.” She was right on about that. 

Anyway, hope you and yours are enjoying life here in Japan, were 

able to enjoy the beautiful sakura, and had a good late April/early May 

vacation. 

With so many diplomats changing, music and sports events, visitors, 

art exhibits, and cultural activities, it seemed like March, April and 

May were unusually busy for this time of the year. That’s the way I like 

it and I’m sure most of you are the same. 

Great people and 

good friends who have 

left recently include 

Italian Ambassador 

Domenico Giorgi and 

his wife Rita, Bosnia 

and Herzegovina Ambassador 

Anesa Kurdurovic, 

Peruvian Ambassador 

Elard Escala, 

and his wife Cristina, 

and Pakistan Ambassador 

Farukh Amil. I 

mixed up the date of 

the Italian sayonara 

party, so I missed that 

one. I'm sorry about 

that, but am happy 

that I got to see Ambassador 

Domenico at 

the Peruvian sayonara 

event and speak to his 

wife Rita on the phone 

several times before 

they returned to Rome. 

They were really good 

friends who’ll be 

missed by all who know them. My thanks to them for the primo class 

book on their embassy and garden – one of Japan’s most beautiful. 

One of the highlights for me during this time was the visit of former 

Tokyoites Ron and Maria Anderson, who flew in from the Big Apple 

for ILBS’s Annual Ball, to do some cherry blossom viewing, and enjoy 

a full schedule of breakfasts, lunches and dinners their many friends 

hosted in their honor while they were here. Ron was a top man for AIU 

Insurance for many years in Tokyo and keeps busy in New York City 

with them as well. Maria also had a fast-paced life here and stays occupied 

in New York with many worthwhile projects. During their 10 years 

here, she was President of the International Ladies Benevolent Society 

for a year, and she helped me with charity projects in the Philippines. 

Believe me, this is a very special couple in every way – and they’re 

really cool, as you can see by the photo that I took of them on their way 

to the Ball. 

I’m a big fan of Broadway shows and Maria gave me a run-down 

on what’s happening in New York City. Hamilton is still on top if you 

want to see it – and can afford it. The Book of Mormon is still packing 

them in, and tickets are still expensive. I’ve seen many of the longer 

running shows and revivals including Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, 

Cats, Kinky Boots and Miss Saigon. I would love to see Wicked, Sunset 

Blue, School of Rock, and On Your Feet! – the last one being about my 

good friend Gloria Estefan. I did a lot of parties for her and her band 

Miami Sound Machine, both here and in Seoul. 

Meanwhile, there’s some good stuff coming to Tokyo. One of my favorites, 

West Side Story, will be back with an international cast in July. 

It’s got to be one of 

the best shows ever 

– from the choreography, 

to the story, 

and the Bernstein 

tunes. What must be 

one of the greatest 

Japanese drumming 

shows, Drum Tao, 

just finished 15 performances 

at Zepp 

Blue Theater in Roppongi. 

The talented 

cast, the staging, 

and the costumes 

by Junko Koshino 

make their show a 

real must-see while 

you’re in Japan. 

Check it out online. 

If your 

TOKYO THROWBACK 

Pro wrestlers Hulk Hogan (left) 

and Bobby Duncum Sr. (right), 

Françoise Morechand, and Bill, 

in the early 80s 

kids are talented, 

you should give 

them the chance to 

do their thing. The 

Tokyo Theatre for 

Children can help 

you with this. The theater group, which started in 1974, produces 

musical theater in English. Shows they’ve put on include the Wizard 

of Oz, Treasure Island and most recently, Annie. They have all been 

fun and successful, from what I hear. I know there are a lot of stage 

mothers (and fathers) out there, so give them a ring at 03-3446-3478 

or check out their website: tokyotheatreforchildren.com. Who knows, a 

star may be born. 

ST. PATRICK’S DAY HAPPENINGS EVERYWHERE 

A big, sincere, and well-deserved kudos to Irish Ambassador Anne Barrington. 

She, along with the Irish community in Japan, and the many 

Japanese people who love Ireland went all out this year, making it 

St. Patrick’s Day a nationwide celebration. This year marks the 60th 

anniversary of Japan-Ireland diplomatic relations. Anne, who’s an excellent 

speaker, made a very warm and meaningful welcome speech. 


SWAP MEET 

AT MIDTOWN 

OAKWOOD & TOKO 

SHINODA’S 104 TH 

1. Sarah Furuya (organizer), 

Jennifer Shinkai, Midtown’s 

Amy Hanashiro 2. Sarah, Mary 

Fidler and Corin Kanazawa 

3. Toko Shinoda being 

interviewed by the press on her 

104th birthday. 1 2 

5 

3 

4 

7 

6 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

ST. PATRICK'S DAY 

AT THE OKURA 

AND YOYOGI PARK 

4. Indian Amb. Sujan Chinoy 

with Miss Japan Priyanka 

Yoshikawa and Miss Ireland 

Niamh Kennedy 5. Ikuku 

Collins and Father Donal Doyle 

6. Miss Japan, politician 

Kazuyuki Hamada, Miss 

Ireland, and actor/model 

Hideyuki Kusakari 

7. Min-On’s new president 

Kazuto Ito, Palestine’s Waleed 

Siam and Min-On PR man 

Tomiyaki Matsuo 8. Irish 

Amb. Barrington (left), Niamh 

Kennedy (far right), and fans 

of Ireland lead the parade 

on Omotesando 9. Ghanaian 

Head of Chancery Muhammad 

Adam, Kenyan Amb. and Mrs. 

S.K. Maina 10. Ed Miliano, 

his wife Annie, Irish Minister 

Paschal Donohoe, outgoing 

Pakistan Amb. Farukh Amil 

11. Japanese Rugby Team at 

Yoyogi Park 12. Irish song and 

dance at Yoyogi Park 


BRUNEI NATIONAL 

DAY – NEW OTANI 

1. Brunei’s driver Dante Ticzon 

and receptionist Elvira Menor 

2. Nicaraguan Amb. Saul Aran, US’ 

First Sec. Visa Chief and Deputy 

Consul General Clay K. Adler 

3. Ernesto Torres (Dominican 

Republic), Indonesian Third Sec. 

Gina Anggraini, Brunei Charge de 

Affaires’ Jessica Tiah, Clay K. Adler 

4. Outgoing Pakistan Amb. Farukh 

Amil, Singapore Amb. and Mrs. 

Chin Siat Yoon 5. Grand Hyatt GM 

Steve Dewire and Park Hyatt GM 

Herve Mazella 

1 

2 

4 

3 

5 

6 

7 

10 

8 

9 

AMBASSADOR 

AND MRS. ELARD 

ESCALA BID ADIOS 

6. Colombian businessman 

Eduardo Cardenas, Dewi 

Sukarno, and Mexican 

counsellor Armando Arriaga 

Ochoategui 

7. Imperial Household’s 

Nobutake Odano, the host Peru 

Amb. Escala 

8. Russian Amb. Evgeny 

Afanasiev, his wife Olga, 

outgoing Peruvian Amb. Elard 

Escala and his wife Cristina 

9. UN University’s David 

Malone, outgoing Pakistani 

Amb. Farukh Amil 

10. Cristina and good friends 

Kuwait Amb. and Mrs. Abdul- 

Rahman Al-Otaibi 


I was a bit late, but I made it in time to enjoy the Irish, Japanese and 

EU anthems, which were played on Irish flutes, fiddles and bagpipes. 

In the Okura Hotel’s popular Ascot Room, Anne and her artist 

husband Ed Miliano introduced me to Irish Minister Paschal Donohoe, 

who was here for the celebration. I was also happy to meet two other 

special guests – Miss Japan, Priyanka Yoshikawa (who’s half Indian) 

and her new best friend, Miss Ireland, Niamh Kennedy. Fame hasn’t 

spoiled either of these beauties. They’re both super nice, and I was 

happy to hear Niamh may be back to Japan for a big rugby game later 

this year. 

Just about everyone I know loves Irish food. I do too, and the Okura, 

with the help of Ireland embassy staff, prepared an awesome buffet 

that featured Irish specialties like shepherd’s pie, farmhouse cheeses 

from Ireland, a delicious vegetable and cheese soup, wonderful Irish 

chocolates, and plenty of Japanese favorites, too. It was an enjoyable, 

laid-back evening, and perfect for the occasion. 

Yoyogi Park also pulled out all the stops for our Irish friends. There 

were many restaurants and pubs serving Irish food and drink, plenty 

of people there wearing green, and even a small “rugby field” where 

college players got spectators to try the rough and tumble sport that’s 

fast gaining popularity in Japan. I was also surprised by the number of 

people playing Irish music and participating in lively Irish dancing. 

THE ESCALAS SAY SAYONARA 

There was a long line waiting outside the Peruvian embassy to say sayonara 

to the popular Peruvian Ambassador Elard Escala and his lovely 

wife Cristina. I didn’t mind waiting, as it gave me time to talk with the 

Kuwaiti Ambassador and Mrs. Al-Otaibi, and to get to know the Russian 

Ambassador and his wife better. The Peruvian embassy is not small, 

but it was packed with people all wanting their photo taken with the 

Ambassador couple. It was proof positive of the popularity of the Escalas 

who, after five years in Tokyo, have returned to Lima for a new 

assignment by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Elard and Cristina did 

a lot of special things to promote Peru during their posting here. They 

arrived about a year before the beautiful new embassy opened, and 

used it for seminars, exhibitions, and special events to promote their 

country. The Peruvian food festivals were especially impressive and of 

course, very popular. 

A couple of years ago when a couple of top Peruvian restaurant 

owners were in Tokyo, I invited them to a club in Roppongi. Paris Hilton 

was there that night and she agreed to have her photo taken with them. 

One of the chefs was here recently to help with a Peruvian food festival 

at the Tokyo Hilton and I was happy to hear that the photo of him and 

Paris in his Lima restaurant still brings in customers. Here in Tokyo, 

Cristina helped with my and the Weekender’s Annual Christmas Party 

for orphans. She was great with the kids. The Escalas will really be 

missed and I thank them for many things while they were here. 

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM’S NATIONAL DAY 

AT NEW OTANI 

I wish the new Bruneian ambassador Ms. Kamilah Hanifah and 

her husband all the best in Japan. Before they arrived, the embassy celebrated 

their National Day with a well-attended reception at the New 

Otani. My good friends, the previous ambassador and Mrs. Mahamud 

Ahmad had already returned home, so a young, beautiful, and very 

smart lady called Jessica Tiah hosted the special evening. For a cultural 

touch, the embassy set up an interesting exhibition of traditional 

Bruneian musical instruments. The buffet, especially the selection of 

Bruneian specialties, was excellent. The Hyatt was well represented by 

Grand Hyatt GM Steve Dewire and the Park Hyatt’s GM Herve Mazella, 

both of whom were kept busy preparing for the many guests coming 

to see the cherry blossoms. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOKO 

The Tolman Collection hosted the 104th birthday celebration of the 

world-famous painter and calligrapher Toko Shinoda at Musée Tomo 

in Toranomon. She is still painting and has a good sense of humor. The 

dynamic exhibition continues through May 28 and is really well worth 

seeing. The museum is closed on Mondays. 

DEWI’S DINNER FOR HER VISITING DAUGHTER 

It was great having Dewi Sukarno’s daughter Karina in town for a 

few days. I watched Karina grow up and we had some good times 

with a lot of interesting people. Karina, who now lives in London, 

was here with her husband Frits Frederik Seegers, and 10-year-old 

son Kiran. I had a great evening at a cherry blossom dinner for Karina 

and assorted celebrities at the famous Shiba Tofu Ukai restaurant, 

hosted by Dewi, who had just come back from Vietnam. Photos to 

come later. 

TO DO 

Earlier this month we checked out Tokyo’s colorful, fun, and growing-in-popularity 

Rainbow Pride week-long celebration. In addition 

to the three-kilometer parades, where some of the costumes get pretty 

wild, Yoyogi Park was buzzing with performances, parties, and 

booths run by both individuals and businesses that support the LG- 

BTQ community. I hope you also took time to camp it up a bit. 

HELP! 

I need a bit of community help: I was waiting for someone in the 

Tokyo American Club’s lobby when this nice guy came over and complimented 

me on my column. He looked familiar, but I just couldn’t 

remember his name. He gave me his card and it turned out that he 

was Greg Carley, the President of TAC several years ago. I thanked 

him for his comments and he asked me when I was going to write 

a book. He offered to send me a book by actor Roger Moore, whom 

you probably know as one of the most popular James Bonds. He kept 

his promise and sent me the book about the many people Moore met 

over the years, which I really enjoyed. I sent a thank you letter twice 

to the mailing address on his card – a PO box at the Shiba Koen post 

office – and both times it was returned. If you know Greg, please 

let him know – and thank him for me. 

Ferrari Senior Sales Manager Toshiatsu Abe and 

Marketing Director, Donato Romaniello 

Showbiz star Steven Haynes, The Sunwolves rugby 

team’s Liaki Moli, and his girlfriend Yoko Nishizumi 

at Shibuya Segafredo 

Former Tokyoites, now New Yorkers Ron and Maria 

Anderson – back for the ILBS Cherry Blossom Ball 


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Tokyo Weekender - May 2017

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