Tokyo Weekender April 2017

APRIL 2017 

Japan’s number one English language magazine 

SHOP 

TOKYO 

6 NEW TRENDS FROM TOKYO FASHION WEEK 

5 INTERIOR DESIGN BRANDS TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE 

33 DESIGNER JAPANESE ITEMS FOR YOUR HOME, WARDROBE, AND BEAUTY KIT 

PLUS: Q&A with Ghost in the Shell Cast Feat. Scarlett Johansson, the Curious “Adult Wrapping” Therapy, and Win a Year’s Worth of Facials

© Paramount Pictures 

34 

20 

28 

30 

radar 

THIS MONTH’S HEAD TURNERS 

8 AREA GUIDE: KOENJI 

This iconoclastic neighborhood found its 

free-spirited identity back in the 60s and 70s, 

and has been trying to live up to it ever since. 

10 STYLE 

Whether you're planning a spring picnic, 

a fancy soiree, or a date with your duvet, 

here are six pieces to suit the occasion. 

12 BEAUTY 

Four deep-cleansing masks, plus the chance 

to win a year's worth of facials at NUA Japan! 

in-depth 

COFFEE-BREAK READS 

19 THE WEEKENDER SHOP 

Thirty-three designer Japanese items to 

renew your living space, wardrobe, and 

beauty kit. 

28 THE GREAT INDOORS 

Want to update your home decor without 

much fuss? Head to OZONE for layers of 

design in one location. 

30 ON THE COVER: RUNWAY REPORT 

Six styles and trends straight from the 

Tokyo Fashion Week AW17 catwalks. 

34 THE GHOST IN THE SHELL DEBATE 

We ask the movie's key players – including 

Scarlett Johansson and Ruper Sanders – to 

weigh in on the whitewashing controversy. 

guide 

CULTURE ROUNDUP 

39 ART & MUSIC 

Two innovative digital art exhibitions, three 

inspired album releases, and a new communal 

space for artists. 

44 AGENDA 

80 years of Marvel Comics, Alfons Mucha's 

art, and papery things from around the globe. 


14 TRENDS 

From the world's first hand-drip green tea 

café to a shopper's hideaway serving organic 

rooibos, here are four spots for tea time. 

32 HOW TO UNWIND BY GETTING TIED UP 

We try out the curious new Japanese therapy 

called otonamaki ("adult wrapping"). Plus, 

gong therapy and Kadampa meditation. 

46 PEOPLE, PARTIES, PLACES 

Dramatic tango, musical sensation Michiyo, 

and the latest from Junko Koshino.


Publisher 

President 

Executive Producers 

Editor in Chief 

Senior Editors 

Creative Director 

Features Writer 

Contributors 

Sales Director 

Sales Executives 

Media Strategist 

Media Consultant 

Media Relations 

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 

Junko Shimaya 

Jessica "Yumi" Idomoto 

Claudia Sun 

Cover art by Bunny Bissoux 

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 | APRIL 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER

@bapawn: You know, even though it’s out of step with 

many other nations, I like how Japan’s new school 

year starts in April – usually with a backdrop of cherry 

blossoms. 

@mizrama: Yes, it’s fitting for the theme of spring. 

While I hate to be a cliché, I can’t help but associate 

spring with new beginnings and fresh starts. 

@bapawn: And we’ve got plenty of those in this month’s 

issue… 

@bapawn: I’m a fan of that denim kimono jacket, the 

lacquer plates, and for what might be the first time in 

my life, I’m jazzed about a comb. 

@mizrama: Ha! Here’s another odd thing to get jazzed 

about: the curious new Japanese relaxation therapy 

I tried called otonamaki. The word means “adult 

wrapping” and I literally got wrapped up in a big piece 

of cotton fabric. 

@bapawn: Wow. Sounds like a scene from a sci-fi movie. 

@mizrama: Indeed, starting with six styles straight 

from the Tokyo Fashion Week AW17 catwalks. Don’t you 

love Bunny’s cover illustrations? 

@bapawn: I do. I’ve always had a thing for the “fashion 

model strut,” and I think she captures it quite nicely. 

Speaking of new beginnings, we’re going to be unveiling 

a new section on our website, aren’t we? 

@mizrama: Yes, the entire Tokyo Weekender site is 

getting a facelift this month, and one of our new sections 

is The Weekender Shop [page 20]. I’m excited about 

being able to showcase some exquisite designer Japanese 

goods. Do you have your eye on any of the items? 

@mizrama: I know, that photo of me all tied up [page 

32] does look pretty alien. Although, perhaps not as 

alien as Scarlett Johansson’s cyborg character in Ghost 

in the Shell. The film’s getting released this month 

in Tokyo – what was it like interviewing the director 

Rupert Sanders? [page 36] 

@bapawn: Well, I think he was getting a little tired 

of having to field questions like mine, about the 

whitewashing controversy. 

@mizrama: I’m sure. But anyone who follows Beat 

Takeshi around the world to persuade him to be in his 

movie is clearly up for a challenge. 

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WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH... 

We've gone a little shopping mad for April: enjoy vintage finds in Koenji; magic face 

masks for spring beauty; and a new kind of hand-drip green tea in Sangenjaya. 

10 STYLE 12 BEAUTY 

14 TRENDS 


AREA GUIDE 

GOING LIVE IN KOENJI 

THIS ICONOCLASTIC NEIGHBORHOOD FOUND ITS FREE-SPIRITED 

IDENTITY BACK IN THE 60S AND 70S AND HAS BEEN TRYING TO 

LIVE UP TO IT EVER SINCE 

Words and photographs by Luca Eandi 

JUST DANCE 

By far, the biggest yearly event in Koenji 

is the Awa Odori Festival at the end 

of August. For two days starting on the 

last Saturday of the month, over 12,000 

participants in nearly 200 groups take 

to the streets to dance accompanied by 

traditional instruments. This festival 

is a smaller-scale Awa Odori from 

Toku shima, and was brought to Koenji 

by Shikoku natives who had moved to 

Tokyo in the 1950s. More than a million 

spectators flock to it every year and it’s 

one of the most fun street events on 

Tokyo’s calendar. If you prefer to enjoy 

dance and the arts in a seated, indoor 

capacity, the Za-Koenji Public Theatre 

is a comfortable performing arts venue 

that is relatively new to the 

neighborhood. 

THRIFTING ALONG 

After Harajuku and Shimokitazawa, 

Koenji is your best bet for finding 

that perfect vintage piece to complete 

your outfit. There are dozens of 

boutiques specializing in different 

eras, styles and price ranges. For a 

pair of gently worn leather boots, 

check Whistler or Chart. Gasoline 

has more leather on hand for 

augmenting your biker wear. AiLeen 

and (capriciously named) Slut deal 

in classic Americana, while Jacob’s 

Ladder is stocked with European 

name brands. Hit up Hayatochiri for 

stylish domestic garb and Kirakuya 

for vintage kimonos. If you’ve got 

clothes to spare, you can sell them at 

one of many recycle shops like Don 

Don Down on Wednesday, Mode 

Off or Treasure Factory Style. 

8 | MARCH APRIL 2017 | | TOKYO WEEKENDER

HIP SHOP HOORAY 

One of the highlights of Koenji is its shotengai, or commercial areas. The covered PAL arcade 

is the main shopping drag through Koenji, adjoining boutique-lined Look Street and nightlifecatering 

Nakadori shotengai. The streets are filled with unique independent businesses and 

specialty shops. Nekonohitai, for example, deals in cat-themed merchandise and has an 

obligatory resident store kitty. Ehonya Rusubanbansuru Kaisha has picture books, many 

of which are from Eastern Europe. There’s no shortage of record stores selling mint, 

original pressing vinyl – check out EAD Record, Be-In Record and 

Universounds. If you’re looking for a cup of joe, or for 

some roasted beans to take home, look no 

further than Coffee Amp. 

ON THE MENU 

The food scene in Koenji is varied and 

goes beyond the usual Tokyo fare. 

Khana has excellent Indian/Nepalese 

food right on PAL street. SUBstore 

is the perfect trifecta of Indonesian 

restaurant/record store/music 

venue owned by a friendly couple. 

Binh Minh has great Vietnamese 

and as a plus, is open late. If you’re 

vegetarian, Meu Nota is the place for 

you. Of course, if you’re looking for 

standard Japanese food, you can also 

hit up Tensuke for tempura or the 

excellent yakitori joint Taisho, which 

has three branches around Koenji 

Station. Also give Dachibin a try for 

Okinawan food. For a drink and a 

book, Cocktail Shobo has both and 

doesn’t mind you using a coaster for 

a bookmark after you’ve had one too 

many. 

HIPPIE TURNED PUNK 

Known as a hotbed for activists, Koenji 

has been home to antiwar and antinuclear 

demonstrations for decades thanks to its 

liberal, bohemian constituency. Hippies put 

down their roots in the neighborhood as far 

back as the 60s, and later on in the 70s Koenji 

became ground zero for punk rock in Japan. 

To this day, many of Tokyo’s best concert 

venues are in the neighborhood, starting with 

mainstays 20,000 Den-atsu and UFO Club 

in Higashi-Koenji. Although those venues 

host a varied sampling of rock music these 

days, there are more specialized live houses 

around, like Penguin House for local talent, 

One Koenji for DJs and Muryoku Muzenji 

for experimental and noise. 

TOKYO WEEKENDER | | MARCH APRIL 2017 | 9

STYLE 

CHLOE PUMPS 

Spring has sprung, and it’s impossible to resist this blushtoned 

pair of Chloe suede pumps. These strapped beauties 

feature an almond toe and a scalloped edge, a signature 

of the label and a legacy of Clare Waight Keller’s tenure as 

creative director of the iconic Parisian brand. The sturdy 

block heel makes them a sensible shoe that remains 

elegant and feminine. They also come in black, so prepare 

yourself for a difficult decision. chloe.com 

WHETHER YOU’RE PLANNING A SPRING PICNIC, 

A FANCY SOIREE, OR A DATE WITH YOUR DUVET, 

HERE ARE SIX PIECES TO SUIT THE OCCASION 

Compiled by Vivian Morelli 

EBERJEY 

PAJAMA SET 

Forget about gym clothes and old jogging 

pants for sleepwear, and instead slip 

into a proper pajama set to catch some 

quality Zs. While we cannot guarantee 

you will actually sleep better, we are 

convinced that nice pajamas do make 

a difference and force your brain to 

switch to sleep mode. We like this light 

leopard-print jersey set, which is equally 

naughty and cute, and adorned with 

tuxedo-inspired black piping to add a bit 

of structure. Caution: these pajamas are 

so soft that you’ll want to go to bed early 

every night. eberjey.com

PAUL SMITH BLAZER 

The start of a new season is the perfect excuse to add another 

investment piece to your wardrobe, such as this timeless Paul Smith 

blazer. Crafted from a blend of wool and cashmere, you can wear it as 

a cover up in (often) chilly April temperatures. Adorned with large patch 

pockets playfully lined in yellow, it is left unlined through the torso to 

keep it light. Wear this fitted number with a pair of jeans and a T-shirt for 

a casual look, or spruce it up with a spring-appropriate pastel shirt. 

paulsmith.co.jp 

DRIES VAN NOTEN SCARF 

You will be thankful for this light scarf at night-time hanami, when the 

weather suddenly drops but you see no reason to head indoors just yet. 

Made entirely of silk, this scarf is frayed at the edges and is printed with 

a delicate, mid-century-inspired tile pattern. It comes as no surprise 

that it’s created by Dries Van Noten, one of the original Antwerp Six 

designers who is especially known for his elegant pieces. The muted 

khaki, burgundy and black tones make it easy to pair with pretty much 

everything you already own. driesvannoten.be 

MIU MIU COAT 

Instead of getting lost in a sea of beige 

trench coats (a springtime Tokyo staple), 

choose to be unique and wear something 

with a bit of color. Not only will it boost 

your mood, but it will also make you 

easier to find in a crowd. This Miu Miu 

coat probably costs more than your 

monthly rent, but we can assure you 

it won’t look outdated 10 years from 

now. Designed to be worn from sunrise 

to sunset (which you’ll want to do after 

splurging on it), this coat is embellished 

with pastel panels and an array of studs, 

beads and crystals, making it completely 

appropriate for cherry blossom season. 

miumiu.com 

JUNYA WATANABE 

SWEATER 

Equal parts nautical and grunge, this 

lightly distressed sweater has been 

designed by Junya Watanabe, one of the 

protégés of Comme des Garçons’ Rei 

Kawakubo. Renowned for his avant-garde 

approach, Watanabe drastically reworks 

classics to give them a cutting-edge 

yet wearable aspect. This top is a good 

example of the designer’s signature style, 

and while the price tag may seem hefty, 

it’s good to note it’s been knitted in Japan 

from fine-gauge cotton. 

mrporter.com

BEAUTY 

DESIGN FACE PACK 

BY ISSHINDO HONPO 

Probably most famed for being a 

confectionery company, Isshindo 

Honpo launched their Kabuki Face 

Mask in 2013, and it quickly took off 

in popularity. To ensure the design 

properly represented the stage make-up 

(kumadori) worn by Kabuki actors, the 

company consulted with Kabuki actor 

Somegoro Ichikawa. And they didn’t 

skimp on beauty ingredients either – the 

mask includes hyaluronic acid, collagen, 

and extracts from Japanese tea leaves, 

satozakura flowers, and camellia seeds. 

We also love their quirky animal face 

masks – the panda, in particular. 

Design Face Pack by Isshindo Honpo, 

¥900, japaneseface.jp/en 

FACE MASK MAGIC 

SPRING CALLS FOR A FRESH START, AND WE’VE FOUND FOUR DEEP- 

CLEANSING MASKS FOR SKIN THAT’S NEVER LOOKED FRESHER 

Compiled by Annemarie Luck and Lisa Wallin 

DON’T LOOK AT ME 

BY LUSH 

We have to admit, we first reached for 

this face mask purely because of its 

beautifully vivid color – slathering the 

thick turquoise scrub all over your face 

is bound to make you feel better just 

because it looks so pretty! But its beauty 

is more than skin deep: it contains 

ground rice and kaolin (China clay) to 

gently exfoliate; fresh organic lemon 

juice for cleansing; and organic silken 

tofu to make your skin as soft as, well, 

silk. Smooth the mask all over your skin 

(body too, if you want), and leave it on 

for 15 minutes before rinsing off. 

Don’t Look At Me fresh face mask, 

¥1,050, jn.lush.com 

SMOOTH GOLD BY 

LULULUN 

Treat your skin to 10 minutes of bliss 

with Smooth Gold, a once-a-week deep 

moisturizing mask infused with nature’s 

finest ingredients: amino acids from Thai 

golden silk contain high levels of serine, 

which keeps your skin soft and supple; 

the sake lees (fermented grounds left over 

from sake production) from Kyoto Fushimi 

sake contain high levels of ceramide, 

which helps protect the skin and retain 

moisture; and the polyphenols in organic 

brown rice have an antioxidant effect to 

give you a youthful glow. 

Smooth Gold mask by Lululun, ¥810, 

lululun.com/plus/smoothgold 

BLACK PAINT BY MYYUKI 

If you’re looking for a deep cleanse 

with a difference, this handmade 

soap brimming with rich, organic 

oils helps improve skin immunity 

and minimizes irritation. High grade 

Kishu Bichotan charcoal made from 

Ubame oak absorbs impurities and 

feeds minerals to the skin. Even 

though this is more a soap than a 

mask, the way you apply it along 

with its powerful cleansing results 

give us a little leeway in terms of 

categorization. To achieve a smooth, 

fresh face without stripping the 

skin of its natural oils, simply apply 

a layer of Black Paint to your face 

and massage for five minutes before 

rinsing off. It’s free from alcohol, 

artificial fragrances or colors, and 

is even Halal certified. 

Black Paint Soap Bar by Myyuki, 

¥2,700, www.blackpaint.jp

[ PROMOTION ] 

WIN A YEAR'S WORTH 

OF FACIALS AT NUA JAPAN 

IT FELT A LITTLE TINGLY, 

BUT THIS, OUR SALON 

THERAPIST ASSURED 

US, ONLY MEANT IT WAS 

WORKING ITS MAGIC 

Peltier machine 

To celebrate their eighth 

anniversary, NUA Japan is 

giving one lucky winner the 

chance to receive a full year of 

free facials. To find out more 

about the treatments you can 

win, Weekender went along to 

try out NUA's new IonActive 

Power Treatment facial 

It's part relaxing, part powerful," says 

NUA founder Nicola Aquino, who introduced 

this new Dermalogica treatment 

to her salon menu in December. 

"Essentially, it's a combination of 

Dermalogica's three most powerful products 

– for acne, pigmentation, and anti-aging – and 

we use different technology to ensure these 

penetrate the skin more effectively." 

The key difference between the products 

used in the IonActive Power Treatment – as 

well as any of the facials on offer at NUA – is 

that the ingredients are far stronger than in 

the products you might be buying from the 

shelf. The 45-minute facial can be customized 

to suit your needs, and for our treatment we 

chose the anti-aging option, which incorporates 

a serum that's packed with hyaluronic 

acid – a molecule that helps your skin retain 

moisture and become more resistant to 

lines and wrinkles. It felt a little tingly when 

applied, but this, our salon therapist assured 

us, only meant it was working its magic. 

There are a couple of machines used in 

the facial, including the galvanic, which uses 

an electric current to drive active ingredients 

deeper into your skin (making things 

feel even more tingly!), and the Peltier, 

which has warm and cold settings, and is 

used to massage the skin to increase blood 

flow – adding to that radiant glow you'll be 

left with after the treatment. 

Aside from the IonActive Power Treatment, 

which falls into the "results-driven" 

category, NUA has a range of facials to 

choose from. "For a more relaxing treatment, 

I'd recommend either the 60-minute 

or 90-minute Dermalogica facials," says 

Aquino. "If you're looking for a deeper 

cleanse, then go for the longer session." 

There's also an IPL Photocare Facial, which 

uses light to increase collagen production and 

is excellent for anti-aging. 

And how many facials do you need to 

see visible results? "Many people say they 

can already start to see a change in their skin 

after just one IonActive Power Treatment," 

she says, "But we always recommend a series 

of three to six facials for optimal results." 

All the more reason to enter the competition... 

HOW TO WIN 

Simply book a facial at NUA Omotesando 

or Hiroo branches from now until 

August 31, 2017, and you will automatically 

be entered into the draw to win a 

year's worth of facial treatments. Each 

facial booked counts as one entry, so the 

more treatments you book, the more 

chances you'll have of winning. Also, 

follow NUA Japan on Facebook and Instagram 

(@nuajapan) for additional entries. 

Each social media platform counts 

as an additional entry, so follow them 

on both for more chances of winning! 

More information and contact details 

at nuajapan.com

TRENDS 

TEA TIME 

FROM THE WORLD’S FIRST HAND-DRIP GREEN TEA CAFE TO A SHOPPER’S HIDEAWAY 

Compiled by Annemarie Luck and Lisa Wallin 

SERVING ORGANIC ROOIBOS, HERE ARE FOUR SPOTS FOR YOUR AFTERNOON BREAK 

NAKAMURA TEA LIFE STORE 

THE STORY Opened in Kuramae in 2015, 

Nakamura Tea Life Store is the brick-andmortar 

store of a family-run tea company 

that’s been in business for almost 100 years. 

The Nakamura family, now in its fourth 

generation of tea producers, switched to pesticide-free 

farming when the third generation 

owner fell ill due to exposure from chemicals 

used to protect the tea bushes. That was over 

30 years ago and they’re still going strong. 

WHY WE LOVE THEM What’s not to 

love? The tea is organic, is only harvested 

during the peak season (late April to early 

May), and each tea canister – stylishly retro 

in its own right – lets you know exactly 

where the tea was harvested. 

WHAT TO TRY The Garden No. 01 Covered 

Edition sencha tea (¥3,600 with canister) 

is grown in the very first field that switched 

to organic production. For this particular tea, 

the bushes are covered two weeks before 

harvest to protect them from the sun. 

This gives the tea a clean and crisp flavor, 

with less astringency and bitterness. 

4-20-4 Kuramae, Taito-ku, 

www.tea-nakamura.com 


ROSE BAKERY 

THE STORY Originally from Paris, Rose Bakery now has branches in London, New 

York, Seoul, and Tokyo. We visited the Dover Street Market Ginza branch, which is 

tucked away at the top of the swanky department store, offering a light, bright haven 

for shoppers and brunchers who need a break – and a good cup of tea. 

WHY WE LOVE THEM Rose Bakery is a chic yet unpretentious canteen-style 

space with the spotlight shining directly on their smorgasbord of sweet treats – most 

of which will more than satisfy those who are craving British or American-style fare. 

As for the teas, they serve all types of top quality brews by Clipper, including English 

breakfast, rooibos, and green tea. 

WHAT TO TRY We stopped by for a late breakfast, pairing organic vanilla rooibos 

(a caffeine-free tea that’s sourced from South Africa and packed with immune-boosting 

antioxidants) with a Moroccan omelet, which was gently spiced and served with freshly 

baked brown bread. Only want a snack? This is one of the few places in 

Tokyo that serves classic scones with jam and cream! 

7F Dover Street Market Ginza, 6-9-5 Ginza, 

Chuo-ku, rosebakery.jp 

TOKYO SARYO 

THE STORY Described as the world’s first 

hand-drip green tea shop, Tokyo Saryo opened 

its minimalist doors in Sangenjaya this January. 

Inspired by coffee culture, they designed their 

own dripper, which the barista uses to extract 

green tea from their selection of seven types of 

sencha leaves. 

WHY WE LOVE THEM Aside from the 

aesthetic beauty of the café, which is all white and 

wood and clean, straight lines (and the handiwork 

of Lucy Alter Design), we love how they are reviving, 

modernizing and simplifying the traditional 

tea ceremony. Also, instead of offering blended 

tea, which is the norm these days, they serve single-origin 

green tea sourced from around Japan, 

allowing you to appreciate the contrast in flavors. 

WHAT TO TRY Go for the tasting course 

menu (¥1,300) which includes your choice of two 

sencha varieties (Harumoegi and Yoino Shichiyousei 

are the most popular) served with wagashi 

(traditional sweets). You’ll get five cups in total, 

with the first and second steeps done at different 

temperatures to influence the taste and bitterness, 

and the third steep done with genmai (roasted 

rice). All the teas can be bought in store, too. 1-34- 

15 Kamiuma, Setagaya-ku, www.tokyosaryo.jp 

YOU CHA 

THE STORY One of the first Chinese tea speciality shops in Tokyo, You Cha opened 

in Omotesando back in 1997, but has recently had a mini facelift, giving it a fresh 

new look. The original idea was to change the perception of Chinese tea in Japan – 20 

years ago, there was a lack of knowledge in Japan about Chinese tea, and most of the 

types sold were not high quality. Today, the shop offers 80 varieties of Chinese and 

Taiwanese teas as well as distinct Japanese teas. 

WHY WE LOVE THEM Based on the concept of offering a memorable Chinese 

tea experience, You Cha also has a tea school where they hold classes for people who 

wish to learn how to select and prepare Chinese tea as well as keep abreast of the 

latest developments in the world of Chinese tea. 

WHAT TO TRY No idea where to start? Take up a seat at the small counter to 

sample high-grade Chinese teas for free before choosing which ones you’d like to 

purchase. Japanese-, English-, and Chinese-speaking staff will happily assist. 

5-8-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, youcha.com 


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 plenty of 

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

ABOUT TOWN | EDITORS CHOICE 

Elana Jade 

Spruce up in time for spring! 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. Mention Tokyo 

Weekender when you book and receive a Shellac Pedicure for 

¥5,600. Offer expires April 30; conditions apply. 

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 on where to 

find 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 

ABOUT TOWN | EDITORS CHOICE 

www.elanajade.com 

03-6453-9319 

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

RESTAURANTS | EDITORS CHOICE 

Ruby Jack's 

Welcome to steakhouse heaven. Whether you're looking 

for a succulent ribeye or a hefty tomahawk, Ruby 

Jack's uses only the best meats from the US, Australia 

and Japan. The 50-day aged wagyu is really something! 

Start things off with a tempting array of appetizers and an 

expertly blended cocktail, and savor your meal with a bottle drawn 

from their wide-ranging wine list. During the warm months, their 

terrace awaits. Special Promotion: Visit Ruby Jack’s on the 29th of 

every month for “Meat Day” (Meat = Niku = 2[Ni]9[ku]) and enjoy the 

selected premium beef at 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 

WANT TO FEATURE YOUR ESTABLISHMENT IN THE CONCIERGE? 

For ad sales enquiries, please call 03-6432-9948 or email sales@tokyoweekender.com 


[ PROMOTION ] 

Grab a seat at Roppongi’s 

newest restaurant for a 

unique menu concept 

Don’t let the name fool you – Cedar 

The Chop House & Bar does not 

only serve steak and chops. Rather 

than being a nod to the traditional 

17th century London chophouses, this 

restaurant, which opened on March 30 inside 

the new Remm Roppongi hotel, takes the original 

concept and gives it a Tokyo twist. 

THE FOOD 

“The idea is that every dish on the menu 

is literally chopped,” explains manager 

Hisayoshi Shiraki as he shows us the varied 

menu. There are Chopped Appetizers such 

as salmon with caper spices; Chopped Salads 

including tuna and avocado with pepper 

dressing; Chopped Seafoods; Chopped Meats 

… You get the idea. Of course, this doesn’t 

mean all ingredients are sliced and diced into 

tiny pieces. We ordered the Angus T-bone, 

and it was served as a hefty 700g steak, juicy 

and sizzling with a side of roast potatoes and 

(chopped) salsa. We also tried the Lobster 

with Spicy Roasted American Sauce, which 

was served as two open red-orange shells 

holding the succulent meat, drizzled with 

tomato-flavored sauce, and topped with two 

grilled asparagus tips. 

THE MOOD IS UPBEAT, 

WITH THE SLICK BAR 

AREA BEGGING FOR 

FRIDAY-NIGHT MINGLING 

To try a bit of everything, go for either the 

Tasting Course (¥5,800) or the Monthly 

Course (¥8,000), both of which include 

appetizer, salad, seafood or meat, and 

dessert. The restaurant is open to everyone, 

but since it caters to guests staying at 

Remm Roppongi hotel, you have the added 

bonus of being able to enjoy a buffet 

breakfast here. And if you’re popping by 

for dinner or after-work drinks, be sure to 

explore their special selection of Japanese 

whiskies, including Fuji Sanroku, and 

Hibiki Japanese Harmony, which is said 

to “encapsulate the harmony that exists 

between nature and people in Japan.” 

THE VIBE 

Sultry, playful jazz welcomed us when 

we visited, adding to the sophisticated yet 

casual atmosphere that’s created by the 

combination of warm woods, soft lighting, 

and buzzing open kitchen. Tall slabs of 

cedar line the walls near the entrance, 

and in between these are elegant but 

not-too-serious illustrations of bourgeois 

types enjoying cocktails. 

The mood is upbeat and conversational, 

with the slick bar area begging for 

Friday-night mingling – although, should 

you prefer to nurse your Scotch in peace, 

you’d easily be able to find a quiet corner. 

For those who’d like even more privacy, 

there’s a table for eight at the end of the 

restaurant that’s hidden behind frosted 

glass and available for rent for small 

private parties. Whether you’re a guest 

staying at Remm hotel or you’re a Tokyoite 

looking for a vibey new spot for wining 

and dining, Cedar The Chop House & Bar 

is the perfect blend of cool and cozy. 

CONTACT 

Cedar The Chop House & Bar 

Address: 2F Remm Roppongi Bldg, 7-14-4 

Roppongi, Minato-ku | Tel: 03-6432-9791 

Website: www.cedar-chophouse.com 


[ PROMOTION ] 

FINE DINING AT HOME 

INTRODUCING TOKYO’S BEST GOURMET FOOD DELIVERY 

SERVICE, NOW AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH TOO 

WEEKENDER 

RECOMMENDS 

Our top four choices for your 

first fineDine delivery 

TOM YAM 

KUNG SOUP 

¥1,480 from 

Yum Yum Siam 

Serving authentic 

Thai food 

at reasonable 

prices, Yum Yum Siam never disappoints 

when it comes to flavor. For a quick lunch 

meal with a kick, go for their hot Tom Yam 

Kung (spicy shrimp soup; also spelled Tom 

Yum Goong). 

STEAK 

BURRITO 

¥1,540 from 

Frijoles 

Craving 

Mexican? This 

burrito hits the 

spot. Its soft flour tortilla is packed with 

cilantro-lime rice, beans or fajita vegetables, 

salsa, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, and 

juicy steak that’s been marinated in Frijoles’ 

special spicy adobo sauce. 

Lately, we’ve seen more Tokyo food 

delivery websites popping up, but 

there are still very few that offer 

service in English, and even fewer 

featuring non-fast-food options. So what’s a 

gourmand to do when you’re craving a bit of 

top quality sushi, but hate to leave the comfort 

of your sofa? Introducing fineDine, a food 

delivery website boasting more than 350 (and 

counting) of Tokyo’s best restaurants, and 

now offering service in English too. 

Starting out as a sushi delivery service in 

Nagoya back in 2001, fineDine’s parent company, 

Ride On Express, expanded into other 

kinds of cuisine a decade ago. Now celebrating 

10 years in the business, fineDine is more 

relevant than ever, with modern lifestyles 

making eating out a rarity, and eating well a 

priority. The company is continuously adding 

restaurants to its lineup, giving you plenty of 

options to choose from including Japanese, 

Chinese, Korean, Indian, and Western menus. 

And just because they specialize in top-end 

cuisine, doesn’t mean you won’t find burgers 

and pizzas on offer – it just means you’ll be 

NOW CELEBRATING 10 

YEARS IN THE BUSINESS, 

FINEDINE IS MORE 

RELEVANT THAN EVER 

able to enjoy the finer versions of these classic 

takeout foods. 

When asked what makes fineDine stand out 

from other delivery services, the company’s Operations 

Manager told Weekender, “We strive to 

deliver dishes exactly as they would be served 

at the restaurant: hot dishes are hot, cold dishes 

are cold, noodles aren’t overcooked, pizzas are 

perfectly crispy. We also guarantee delivery 

within the estimated delivery time [provided 

when ordering], and if this is not possible due 

to traffic or adverse weather conditions, we’ll 

contact the customer to notify them of the delay. 

If the customer is not satisfied with the food 

in any way, we always try our best to resolve 

the situation either by redelivery or a refund.” 

FineDine also caters for parties and events, so 

should you require up to 50 meals, simply place 

your order in advance to ensure timely delivery. 

MEXICAN 

BURGER 

¥1,590 from 

Burger Mania 

Craving 

Mexican 

and a burger? 

FineDine’s got you covered here, too. 

Known for being one of Tokyo’s best burger 

joints, Burger Mania offers a Mexican meal 

that packs a spicy punch: look forward to 

a juicy patty topped with chili beans, salsa, 

and Cheddar cheese. 

DELI HAM 

& CHEESE 

SANDWICH 

¥1,480 

from Honey 

Baked Ham 

What’s gourmet 

about a sandwich? As the shop name says, 

this ham is glazed with honey, and it’s also 

smoked for over 20 hours with a secret 

blend of hardwood chips. Enjoy it layered 

with chunky cheese, served on a fresh roll, 

with a side of mashed potato. 

For more information and to place your 

order, visit finedine.jp 


Bespoke chair customized to fit your body shape by 

Yuragi-sya, from ¥98,000 (excl. tax), chair-one.com 

SHOP TOKYO 

It's the season for new beginnings, and what better place to start than in your home? 

We've selected 33 designer Japanese items – including the elegant custom-made chair 

featured on this page – to renew your living space, wardrobe, and even your beauty kit. 


WEEKENDER SHOP 

FOR YOUR KITCHEN 

Topping Dessert with natural fruits and star candy by P.K.C+ 

Phakchii Plus, ¥1,200 (excl. tax) per bottle, tinyurl.com/TW-PKC 

To visit The Weekender Shop, visit 

www.tokyoweekender.com/shop. 

For more info about Omotenashi 

Selection, visit omotenashinippon.jp 

(Note: not all items shown here 

are available online.) 

The Weekender Shop 

To celebrate our new online store, we’re showcasing a selection of the designer, 

made-in-Japan items you can now find on our website. Because everyone should have 

a touch of Japanese craftsmanship in their lives… 

This month, we’re excited to announce the launch of 

The Weekender Shop. Our new online store is a collaboration 

with Omotenashi Selection, a project that 

brings together fine goods from around Japan and shares 

them with international audiences. Each item in the selection 

is chosen by a panel of judges, ensuring the products on 

offer all possess the high quality for which Japanese goods 

are renowned. They also all convey the unique beauty of 

Japan in their own way. Our new Weekender Shop showcases 

a curated collection of the items found in Omotenashi 

Selection, and over the next eight pages, we give you a taste 

of the shopping experience that awaits… 

Kuromoji Youji wooden cake knives by Kikusui Sangyo, 

¥1,500 (excl. tax) for a set of five, kikusuisangyo.co.jp 

Maru-yubeshi preserved yuzu fruit by Yubeshi 

Souhonke Nakauraya, ¥2,500 (excl. tax), yubeshi.jp 

Natoha Natural Black Carrot Tea by Lifet, 

¥1,400 (excl. tax) per box of 10 teabags, tinyurl.com/TW-natoha

Photos by Chris Mollinson 

Hipparidako Meshi bento meal in ceramic bowl by Awajiya, 

¥926 (excl. tax), www.awajiya.co.jp 


Mutenka Odashi Cocktail additive-free dashi powder mix by Mica 

Corporation, ¥3,000 (excl. tax) for a boxed set of six, tinyurl.com/TW-dashi 

O-ETSU's Jewel Box of assorted rice by O-ETSU Food Industry, 

¥4,500 (300g x six packs), www.o-etsu.jp 

Tokyo Sashisuseso assorted seasonings by Food Relation, 

¥4,000 (excl. tax), www.tokyosashisuseso.com 

Spice Tower Series by Komorebi Garden, 

¥1,400 (excl. tax) for a set of six spices, komorebigarden.ocnk.net

FOR YOUR WARDROBE 

1 

2 

1. Denim Kimono by Tamakiya, 

¥8,800 (indigo), ¥9,800 (faded), 

tamakiya-gofuku.tokyo.jp 

2. Merippa room shoes by 

Nakahashi Knitting, ¥4,600 (excl. 

tax), merippa.com 

3. Thinglass sunglasses by Osaka 

Optical Glass, ¥35,000 (excl. tax), 

thinglass.net 

4. Triple 0 "Sphere" embroidered 

necklace by Kasamori, ¥12,500 

(excl. tax), www.000-triple.com 

5. Otafukuwata Zabuton bag 

with detachable cushion by 

Honeyfiber, ¥15,000 (excl.tax), 

www.otafukuwata.com/en 

6. Corom Bag Co. Functional 

Kaleidoscopic Pouch by Mitsuoo 

Project, ¥2,700-¥4,800 (excl. tax), 

corom.co 

7. SHAREFUN® fundoshi 

underwear by Plus Charming, 

¥2,980 (excl. tax), sharefun.jp 

3 

4 

6 

5 

7 


[ PROMOTION ] 


SWITCH TO COFFEE SAKURA 

FOR A DELICIOUS, FAIR 

TRADE BREW 

Love your afternoon coffee but 

tired of resorting to a quick 

fix from the supermarket or 

convenience store? Coffee 

SAKURA offers ground coffee in 

beautifully designed hand drip 

bags, giving you an on-the-go 

option that doesn’t sacrifice on 

flavor or quality. What’s more, 

they source only fresh “green” 

beans, and do the roasting 

themselves in Japan – this means 

they can control the process, 

and they also only roast small 

quantities at a time (enough 

for each day) so as to prevent 

the coffee from going stale. The 

beans are sourced from countries 

such as Ethiopia, Guatemala, 

and Brazil, and Coffee SAKURA 

strongly supports fair trade. 

Coffee SAKURA hand drip coffee, 

¥2,500, www.sakurasan.com/eng 

THE SAKURA SLING PROJECT 

LETS YOU TURN YOUR 

CAMERA INTO A STYLISH 

EVERYDAY ACCESSORY 

Even though cameras are 

becoming more compact, it’s still 

often a hassle to carry one around 

with you – and those traditional 

bulky, uncomfortable camera 

straps don’t help matters. Enter 

the Sakura Camera Sling, a new 

style of strap that’s made with 

a soft scarf-like fabric that’s cut 

wide so as to evenly distribute 

the camera’s weight. Inspired by 

the design of baby carriers, the 

strap significantly reduces the 

load on your neck and shoulders, 

and it also features two pockets 

– one with a zip to keep things 

like camera lenses safe. The 

fabric comes in all sorts of pretty 

patterns, so you can pick the style 

that suits your wardrobe best. 

Done snapping? The sling doubles 

up as a cover, so you can wrap 

your camera up and protect it 

from getting scratches or dents. 

DRIP COFFEE WITH A DIFFERENCE | HOW TO WEAR YOUR CAMERA 

Sakura Camera Sling, 

¥15,984, sakurasling.com 

FOR YOUR WARDROBE 


FOR YOUR BEAUTY KIT 

1 

2 

1. Aroma Soap Iiyokan made 

with natural essential oil 

from iyokan citrus fruit by 

Sanyo Kousan, ¥880 (excl. tax), 

kagura-store.com 

2. Osyare Tsubaki Oil 

by Ibaraki Prefecture 

Development Public 

Corporation, ¥4,630 (excl. tax), 

available at Ibaraki Marche in 

Ginza, www.ibarakimarche.com 

3. Sakurayukihada Natural 3D 

Face Mask by Shizendo Japan 

Beauty Institute, ¥1,800 (excl. 

tax) per box of four sheets, 

www.shizendo-japan.co.jp 

4. Tsubaki Uruoi organic 

facial soap by Maruha Yushi 

Chemicals, ¥2,500 (excl. tax, 

incl. wooden box), nanairosekken.com 

5. Love Chrome flat-shaped 

combs by YC. Primarily, PG 

Nami Black (large comb) ¥5,000 

(excl. tax), Tsuki Premium Black 

(small comb) ¥4,700 (excl. tax), 

www.lovechrome.jp 

4 

3 

5 


[ PROMOTION ] 

USING RED RICE BRAN AS 

ITS BASE, COME SAVON 

SOAP IS A GENTLE YET 

POWERFUL CLEANSER 

After experiencing skin 

problems during pregnancy, 

the founder of Moko decided to 

come up with her own recipe 

for “a soap that can be used 

safely both for yourself and 

your baby in your tummy.” 

Her husband works as an 

organic rice farmer, so she was 

naturally drawn to rice as an 

active ingredient; she began 

using rice bran oil as a cleanser 

and noticed the positive effects 

it was having on her skin. In 

creating Come Savon soap bar, 

she decided to use akamai, a 

red rice that contains plenty 

of minerals and vitamins, 

along with other natural 

ingredients such as avocado 

oil and honey. The result is a 

highly moisturizing soap that’s 

free from preservatives and 

chemical perfumes or dyes, and 

is environmentally friendly. 

Wondering if it foams? Watch 

the video on Moko’s website 

and prepare to be amazed. 

Come Savon soap by Moko, ¥1,296, 

moko-sekken.com 

SECRET INGREDIENTS FOR HAPPY SKIN 

NATURAL SKINCARE DOESN’T GET BETTER 

THAN THE SILKY TOKOWAKASUI RANGE 

The word tokowaka refers to the concept of maintaining 

a sense of youthfulness, while the word sui symbolizes 

purity. Put them together and you have the name of 

this extraordinary range by Sorayui Inc. The two main 

ingredients that make these products so powerful are 

Tokowaka Seisen, the pure spring water from Ise; and 

silk fibroin, a moisturizing protein amino acid produced 

by the Japanese silk moth, or tensan. Add to that a variety 

of botanical ingredients and you get a range of products 

that cleanses, moisturizes, protects, and helps to create 

luminous, soft skin – without any harmful effects. 

FOR YOUR BEAUTY KIT 

Tokowakasui Moisture Foam facial wash (120g) ¥3,800, Essence 

Lotion (150ml) ¥4,800, Milk Cream (40g) ¥5,800, Mini Gift Set 

¥2,800 (all prices excl. tax), sorayui.jimdo.com 

SHINSHIN AROMA OIL AND SPRAY SERIES WILL TRANSPORT 

YOU FAR, FAR AWAY 

Evoking a sense of the deep forest surrounding the sacred Ise Shrine 

in Mie Prefecture, Shinshin aroma oils and sprays help you instantly 

unwind from the stresses of modern life. The three types of Japanese 

fragrances in the range are based on hinoki (Japanese cypress), and are 

blended according to the daily rhythms of life: Morning Glow (includes 

orange, yuzu, and Yoshino hinoki); Sunny Afternoon (includes rosemary 

and kabosu); and Moon Light (includes Yoshino hinoki and lavender). 

Retreat from the bustling city and indulge in the Ise Shrine forest 

atmosphere throughout the day with these three relaxing aromas. 

Shinshin Aroma Oil Series, ¥2,500 each or ¥6,750 for a set of three (excl. tax), 

Shinshin Aroma Spray Series, ¥2,800 each or ¥7,560 for a set of three (excl. tax), 

sorayui.jimdo.com 


FOR YOUR HOME 

1 

2 

3 

5 

4 

1. Frying Pan Story made-to-order frying pans by Fujita Metal MFG, 

¥3,000-¥8,800 (excl. tax), frying-pan.jp 

2. Urushi Nunomise Plate Series by Wajima Kirimoto, 

from ¥18,000 (excl. tax), www.kirimoto.net/eng 

3. Nishijin no Utsuwa resin and glass plates by Emura Shouten, 

from ¥4,950 (excl. tax), www.emura-shouten.com 

4. 旬 Shun Classic handcrafted knife series by Kai, 

¥15,000 (excl. tax) for 175mm knife, www.kai-group.com/global/en 

5. Kutani-yaki porcelain jar caps by Big Santa, 

¥2,500-¥3,000 (excl. tax), 100banya.shop-pro.jp

[ PROMOTION ] 

Is it a Broom... 

or is it an Art Piece? 

FOR YOUR HOME 

These unique brushes by Artforme are as 

beautiful as they are practical 

Who says housework needn’t 

be glamorous? Certainly not 

the folks at Artforme. Based 

in Akita, the company envisioned 

a new kind of broom, one that could 

be considered an artistic masterpiece but 

that would also make sweeping and cleaning 

an easier affair. Their vision was brought 

to life through a collaboration between two 

craftsmen: one who specializes in nambu 

houki (traditional Japanese brooms), and 

the other an experienced woodworker. 

Each brush is made by hand from 

Japanese broomcorn, which is naturally 

curled by Akita’s cold mountain winds, and 

features a unique curved tip that makes it 

both soft and resilient. It’s ideal for sweeping 

not only hard floors but also dirt and pet 

hair from within carpets. This soft, natural 

material boasts a superb cleaning ability, 

but is gentle enough to wipe dust from 

fabric as delicate as cashmere. The handle, 

which plays an important role in controlling 

the strength of the brushing, is made of 

wood that has been carefully shaved to fit 

comfortably in your hand. 

Best of all, the brushes are so beautiful 

that they could easily double up as a work 

of art on display in your home. 

Artforme brush with handle made from 

Japanese onoorekanba birch, ¥30,000 (natural 

color handle, excl. tax), ¥50,000 (black 

handle, excl. tax), store.artform.jp 


[ PROMOTION ] 

THE GREAT 

INDOORSWords by Lisa Wallin 

Want to update your home décor without much fuss? LIVING 

DESIGN CENTER OZONE offers layers of design in one location. 

To get you started, we’ve chosen five superb brands to look out 

for when you visit 

For the house proud, Tokyo can 

be a nightmare to navigate when 

looking to either build a house 

from scratch or simply redecorate. 

Traversing the city once to find 

furniture, then again to look at paint strips 

is neither practical nor desirable. A visit to 

OZONE eliminates that waste of time: it has 

six floors with a total of 35 showrooms displaying 

everything from wall tiles to whole 

kitchen units. The hours will fly by as you 

find yourself drawn in by the countless 

customization options and staff expertise. 

THE FUTURE IS NOW 

– AND IT LOOKS 

FANTASTIC 

2. GLAS LUCE x SMART HOME: THE LATEST IN INTERIOR TECHNOLOGY 

Welcome to the future, where LCD glass and modern technology make your home more stylish, 

more convenient – and more fun. Glas Luce’s elegant flat screen systems take up almost no 

space and can be customized in size, function and design to suit your needs. Change what looks 

like a glass mirror into a media center at the touch of a button – and then back again. Depending 

on how connected you'd like your home to be, you can do anything from watch your 

favorite YouTube videos to get a health check by the "mirror concierge" (launching soon) or 

simply adjust the lighting. What are you waiting for? The future is now – and it looks fantastic. 

1.STYLE GLASS: 

WHEN GLASS MEETS DESIGN 

While glass may not be the first thing you 

think of when decorating your home, it 

shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether you’re 

looking for a subtle change or a dramatic 

finish, Style Glass can transform your home 

with the simple change of a glass door, window, 

or addition of a wall decoration. Bring 

light into your home while shielding it from 

peering eyes by adding a gradated frosted 

coating to a window facing the street. Or, 

if you need a touch of design and color, 

consider the washi glass – where Japanese 

handmade paper is inserted in between 

two sheets of clear or tinted glass. It softens 

light that passes through it, while adding 

the appearance of traditional-style texture. 

This is just one of the countless options, as 

customers can customize glass design, tints, 

frosting, gradation and size to their specific 

needs. You can even ask them to print your 

own design for a truly original addition to 

your home. 


Photos by Chris Mollinson 

4. ATELIER MOKUBA: FROM TREE TO TABLE 

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind statement piece to add to your home, look no further 

than Atelier Mokuba, located on the 5th floor. This showroom displays about 180 wooden 

tables, countertops and desks in a variety of 35 types of wood. The amazing thing is each 

tabletop is made from a single slab of wood. The spirit and skill of the artisans who make 

them live on in these unique masterpieces, which are kept in their natural shape, instead of 

being sawn apart and then pieced together again. These natural works of art – which grew 

for centuries in the forest – will live in your home for generations to come. 

3. NORDIC FORM: 

TIMELESS MASTERPIECES 

Nordic Form is home to a stunning range of 

contemporary items, as well as a specially 

selected collection of vintage 50s and 60s 

furniture in pristine condition. The latter is 

handpicked on location in Scandinavia by shop 

staff and shipped to Japan specifically for this 

showroom. You’ll find pieces by Bruno Mathsson, 

Alvar Aalto, and other iconic designers 

– but since these are rare, limited items, they 

may be gone if you don't get there soon. 

5. FEEL TEXTILE: 

TACTILE MATTERS 

Whether you’re looking for a 

cushion cover or wanting to 

redecorate your whole interior, 

Feel Textile will be there every 

step of your journey. Rely on the 

staff’s expertise for choosing the 

appropriate fabric for a certain 

type of surface, or coordinating 

different fabrics. They can help 

you choose designs, take measurements, 

organize production – 

and even arrange for installation. 

Their dedication to your needs, 

combined with a broad range of 

stunning European designs, will 

ensure you make the right choice 

for you and your home. 

COMING UP NEXT MONTH... 

For an exceptional insight into modern Japanese 

design, look no further than the Nippon 

Form showroom, where traditional craftsmanship 

meets contemporary ideas. Discover 

functional, minimalistic furniture that won’t 

take up space; or pop-inspired stainless steel 

tetsubin teapots in magenta and aquamarine. 

Find yourself inspired by the miniature living 

space gallery, and picture how these stunning 

features would look in your own home. 

Keep an eye out for our full roundup of Nippon 

Form items in next month's issue of Weekender. 

CONTACT 

LIVING DESIGN CENTER OZONE - Address: 3F-8F Shinjuku 

Park Tower, 3-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku 

Tel: 03-5322-6500 | Web: www.ozone.co.jp/eng 


Words and illustrations by Bunny Bissoux 

KEISUKEYOSHIDA HARE HIROKO KOSHINO 

Born in 1991, Keisuke Yoshida is one of Fashion 

Week’s youngest designers. This season, 

he continued to demonstrate his youthful 

energy with retro pop colors like fire truck 

red and flamingo pink – but he kept them 

modern rather than kitsch with slouchy cuts 

and fragmented uniforms broken up with 

belts and fastenings. Displaced zippers and 

pockets adorned the uniquely tailored pieces, 

including oversized jackets, tunic dresses 

and split leg flares. Tartan and houndstooth 

pieces clashed with utilitarian pleats, all 

topped off with playful hints of leisurewear. 

keisukeyoshida.com 

The popular mid-range brand emphasized its 

reputation for functional, desirable fashion in 

an impressive 80s city slicker power trip. Wine 

hues, neutral tones, striking checkerboard 

and hot red pieces were shown in layers of 

co-ordinates that could be easily woven in new 

combinations for both men and women. Fashion 

staples like bomber jackets and roll necks 

were presented in the season’s must-have 

mauve. Flapping coat tails on three-quarter 

length coats and jackets, fur and wool stoles 

cinched with leather belts, and an array of 

casual formalwear will make stylish additions 

to any wardrobe. www.dot-st.com/hare 

The fashion legend who made a name for herself 

in Paris in the 80s is known around the 

world for her penchant for contrast and bold 

use of shapes and colors. This collection was 

no exception with gorgeous patterned knit 

dresses conveying a simultaneous sophistication 

and sense of fun. Busy black and white 

patterns made a striking impact amongst the 

relaxed silhouettes and softer curves. The 

gray and black garments were draped with 

overlaid textures, giving warmth with an 

edge, refined style, and mysterious charm 

– the perfect spell for glam winter witches. 

www.hirokokoshino.com 


AMAZON TOKYO FASHION WEEK AW17 KICKED OFF IN LATE 

MARCH, DELIVERING A FRESH SLICE OF HOMEGROWN 

TALENT. HERE’S OUR ILLUSTRATED ROUNDUP OF KEY 

LOOKS AND TRENDS SPOTTED ON THE CATWALKS 

GROWING PAINS 5-KNOT AULA 

A singer and DJ turned designer might face 

tough critics, but an established fashion 

icon like Yulia had a strong vision when 

launching her brand last year. Inspired by 

underground culture, Growing Pains bridges 

a gap between streetwear and high fashion, 

opening the door in both directions. The 

AW17 collection saw urban military chic 

clash with feminine elegance and bondage 

punk. Ruffles, seatbelt fastenings, bows, 

and straps were all used to embellish khaki 

green garments and nurse’s uniforms – as if 

Florence Nightingale had parachuted right 

into a fetish party. www.growingpains.tokyo 

Design duo Ena Kizawa and Taketo 

Nishino presented an autumnal dream 

in rich muted tones. The easily wearable 

array of garments mixed up a multitude 

of tactile fabrics, from delicate lace and 

silks to velvet and heavy wools. Tulle 

skirts were worn over low slung pants, 

paired with modestly embellished knits. 

Vintage elements appeared in the chintzy 

floral motifs as well as the 70s full skirts 

and blouson sleeves. Tiered cuffs, frills, 

bows and swinging tassels all added a 

final touch of softness to an alluringly 

comfortable collection. 5-knot.jp 

Yukimi Kawashima’s 20 years of experience 

in the industry is apparent in her exquisite 

tailoring. She presented variations on the 

trouser suit, from cropped Teddy Boy rocker 

jackets with drainpipe slacks to billowing zoot 

suits. Masculine elements were tweaked to 

flatter the female form, referencing 80s power 

dressing statements rather than venturing 

into recent androgynous trends. Delicate velvet 

gowns and secretary ensembles were spattered 

with ruffles and jagged lace, completed 

with harnesses and buckles in a juxtaposition 

of contrasting stereotypes of femininity for 

the modern woman. aula.tokyo.jp 


HOW TO UNWIND 

BY GETTING TIED UP 

And other interesting ways to calm your mind in Tokyo 

Words by Annemarie Luck 


MORE WAYS TO 

RELAX IN TOKYO 

BEING ON THE INSIDE 

OF THE BUNDLE IS AKIN 

TO BEING UNDERWATER 

IN THE SENSE THAT 

THE OUTSIDE WORLD IS 

CLOSE YET FAR 

How it looks and how it feels 

are completely different,” 

says physiotherapist Orie 

Matsuo. I’m at her treatment 

room in Ikebukuro, about to 

try a session of otonamaki (“adult wrapping”), 

and she’s talking about the shock 

factor behind Japan’s unusual new form 

of therapy. People find the image of a body 

tied up in the cotton mesh fabric disturbing 

or uncomfortable to look at – which has 

ironically (or predictably?) made the topic 

a hit on the Net. “But in fact it’s based on 

the very soothing practice of ohinamaki 

– wrapping newborn babies up to mimic 

the feeling of being in the womb, and help 

them sleep better,” she says. 

Matsuo is a member of the company 

Kyoko Proportion, and has been practicing 

physio and massage therapy for three 

decades. She introduced otonamaki to her 

repertoire after it was launched in 2015 by 

midwife Nobuko Watanabe, under whom 

Matsuo trained. The physical benefits of a 

20- to 30-minute session include helping 

the body become more flexible, relieving 

shoulder and neck stiffness, and broadening 

joint movements. But perhaps the more 

interesting effect is how, when you’re rolled 

up inside that stretchy white fabric, your 

mind “feels free.” 

Keen to see just how free I’d feel once 

wrapped up, I settle into a cross-legged 

position on the floor mat, seating myself 

GONG THERAPY 

Sometimes called a gong bath, this meditative 

therapy is like a sound massage for body and 

mind, using vibrational frequencies to help 

healing and relaxation on a deep, cellular level. 

It’s great for easing insomnia, anxiety, and 

stress. To try it out, we went along to a session 

held in Shibuya by Anne Fong Braillard, 

who is also a yoga teacher and reiki master. 

While we lay on comfy futons with eyes 

closed, Anne played two large gongs as well 

as different-sized Tibetan bowls, washing us 

in an epic symphony of sound that seemed to 

penetrate right to our core. It was beautiful, 

effortless, and probably the most relaxing 

thing we’ve done in years. ¥2,000 for 75 minutes 

(couples’ session ¥2,500, private session 

¥3,800), 080-7848-3357, annefongbraillard@ 

yahoo.com, tinyurl.com/TW-gongtherapy 

DOWNLOAD AN APP: For on-the-go 

healing, get the Natura Sound Therapy 

app via tinyurl.com/TW-soundtherapy 

KADAMPA MEDITATION 

The paradox of being stressed is that often 

the hardest thing to do is sit down and clear 

your mind. The solution? Join a class so that 

all you need to do is show up while someone 

else leads you to lightness. The best thing 

about the Kadampa Buddhist meditation 

class we joined in Hiroo is that you’re not actually 

expected to clear your mind. Instead, 

our teacher, Janet Yeh, led us through a 

guided meditation that included visualization 

as well as practical tools for navigating 

everyday stresses. English classes are ¥1,500 

at Be Yoga studio on Wednesdays (three times 

a month) from 7:30pm-8:30pm. April’s theme 

is “A Peaceful Mind in a Busy World.” 

For more info, visit www.kadampa.jp 

DOWNLOAD AN APP: For modern 

mindfulness, get the Buddhify app 

via tinyurl.com/TW-buddhify 

directly in the middle of the cotton piece of 

fabric. Matsuo wraps a kind of protective 

belt around both my neck and waist – 

although the waist one is optional and 

next time I’d leave it off as I found it 

uncomfortable to lie on. She then gently 

folds the ends up over my head, asking if 

I’d prefer my face to not be covered. But 

since I don't suffer from claustrophobia 

(and I want to experience maximum 

freeness), I choose full coverage. Matsuo 

talks to me every step of the way, asking 

if I’m okay, and which position I’d prefer 

my hands, arms, legs, and feet to be in. 

(Because communication during the session 

is important, you’ll need to be able to 

understand basic Japanese, or take along a 

Japanese-speaking friend.) 

Slowly, she begins to tie different 

edges of the cloth together until there are 

multiple knots holding my cotton cocoon 

in place. She then guides me into a horizontal 

position, my legs and arms folded 

up to my chest. For the final tie, she asks 

me which position I’d like to have my head 

in – flat against the floor or tilted forwards 

at an angle. I choose the tilt, but if you’re 

worried about aggravating any neck pains 

then I’d recommend keeping it flat. 

Being on the inside of the bundle is 

akin to being underwater in the sense that 

the outside world is close yet far. However, 

breathing is easy since the fabric is 

mesh, and at no point do I feel trapped or 

anxious to get out. Matsuo gently rocks 

me back and forth, turning me on my 

side, and even lifting the bottom half of 

my body off the floor. I may not feel one 

hundred percent free, but I am weightless 

for a long moment – and if you’re someone 

who carries the weight of the world on 

your shoulders, you’ll understand how 

freeing that can be. 

ESSENTIAL INFO 

A first 45-minute otonamaki appointment 

with Orie Matsuo costs ¥4,860 (extra 

10 minutes is ¥1,080, and subsequent visits 

are ¥3,780). To make an appointment, 

call 03-5879-8120. For more information, 

visit the Kyoko Proportion website at 

kyokopro.net (Japanese only). 


THE 

DEBATE 

Words by Matthew Hernon 

AS THE FILM IS RELEASED THIS MONTH IN JAPAN, WE DELVE 

INTO THE ONGOING QUESTION OF WHETHER THE BLOCKBUSTER 

IS A MAJOR CASE OF CULTURAL APPROPRIATION OR SIMPLY 

SAVVY CASTING. FIRST, WE ASK JAPANESE ACTORS LIVING 

IN L.A. TO WEIGH IN ON THE GREATER DEBATE ABOUT 

HOLLYWOOD WHITEWASHING. THEN, OVER THE PAGE, WE 

TURN TO THE MOVIE’S KEY PLAYERS, INCLUDING SCARLETT 

JOHANSSON, DIRECTOR RUPERT SANDERS, AND SCREEN 

LEGEND KITANO “BEAT” TAKESHI, TO HEAR THEIR THOUGHTS 

ON THE CONTROVERSY 

Another example of racism in Hollywood 

or just a case of selecting 

the most marketable star to make a 

profit? The live-action film adaptation 

of Masamune Shirow's manga 

comic Ghost in the Shell is finally 

set to open in Japan this month and has already 

caused quite a stir. It's a story that inspired movies 

such as The Matrix, Avatar and Minority Report, 

yet all anyone's been talking about over the 

past 12 months is the casting of Scarlett Johansson 

as the lead character Major Motoko Kusanagi. 

Many see it as a kick in the teeth, not only for 

Japanese actors, but Asian actors in general. If 

they’re not going to be considered for a character 

named Motoko, you wonder if it’s ever going to 

happen. At the same time, The Major is a cyborg 

whose ethnicity and sex is never clearly defined. 

From the producers’ perspective, rather than 

focusing on the race of the actor, it was about targeting 

a megastar to attract worldwide audiences. 

In that sense, Johansson fit the bill perfectly. 

Of course, not everyone’s willing to accept 

that point of view. Speaking during a panel luncheon 

last year, Fresh Off the Boat star Constance 

Wu said the situation was "particularly heinous 

because they ran CGI tests to make [Johansson] 

more Asian." She was also disappointed with the 

decision to cast Matt Damon as the hero in The 

Great Wall, writing on her Twitter page, "We have 

to stop perpetuating the racist myth that only a 

white man can save the world." 

George Takei is another Asian-American 

celebrity who regularly speaks out about whitewashing 

in Hollywood. He took to Facebook after 

screenwriter Robert Cargill suggested that Tilda 

Swinton had been chosen as The Ancient One – 

© Paramount Pictures

traditionally a Tibetan character – in Doctor 

Strange to appease Chinese audiences. "So, 

let me get this straight. You cast a white actress 

so you wouldn’t hurt sales … in Asia? 

This backpedaling is nearly as cringeworthy 

as the casting. Marvel must think we’re all 

idiots," wrote the Star Trek actor. 

From Katharine Hepburn as Jade Tan 

in the 1944 film Dragon Seed to Mickey 

Rooney's infamous role as Mr Yunioshi 

in Breakfast at Tiffany's, Caucasian actors 

have been portraying Asian characters 

for decades, and the trend appears to be 

continuing. The casting of Nat Wolff as Light 

Yagami in the upcoming Netflix production 

of Death Note adds further fuel to the fire. 

American-born actor Edward Zo claims he 

was indirectly told not to bother auditioning 

for the role as they weren't looking for 

someone Asian. 

So how deflating is it for Japanese actors 

in Hollywood to hear news like this? Weekender 

spoke with Toru Uchikado, Ami Haruno 

and Nina Fujii to hear their thoughts on 

the subject of whitewashing. 

TORU UCHIKADO 

The 27-year-old’s breakthrough 

role came as Ren 

Shimosawa in Tim Kring’s 

supernatural drama Heroes 

Reborn. He’s currently 

starring as a serial killer in 

a web series titled The Mask 

of Sanity. 

“I chuckled when I saw 

the trailer for The Great 

Wall with Matt Damon. It 

seemed so typical of Hollywood. 

At the same time, 

I don't know the storyline 

and would hate to criticize 

a movie without watching 

it. You could say it gives 

Asian actors an opportunity 

to showcase their talents 

globally as they're in a film 

with a huge star. Also, studios 

need to make money 

and probably feel they have 

a better chance of doing that with big names. 

Whilst that makes sense, it's disappointing that 

Asian actors aren't considered as you never 

know what could happen. The film might do 

just as well or possibly better [with an Asian 

lead]. We don't know because the people in 

power aren't prepared to take that risk. 

We [Asian actors] can’t just sit around 

and wait for things to change. You’ve got to be 

proactive. Go out and do independent films, 

work on your English so you don’t have to 

rely on stereotypical roles, create your own 

material to pitch to casting directors. I keep 

telling myself these things. It’s tough, but it 

was even harder in the past. I can’t imagine 

how difficult it would have been if I'd moved 

here [to L.A.] a decade or two ago. It's thanks 

to people like [Japanese-American actor] Masi 

Oka. Without his iconic performance as Hiro 

Nakamura in Heroes, Kiki [Sukezane] and I 

probably wouldn’t have got our roles in the 

Reborn series. I believe things will continue 

to improve as there are many creative Asian 

minds in the industry.” 

AMI HARUNA 

Granddaughter of Akutagawa-prize winning 

author Komao Furuyama, Haruna has featured 

in many big-budget Hollywood films, including 

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World and 

Crazy, Stupid, Love. 

“Whitewashing is a problem in Hollywood, 

but I'm not referring to myself when I say 

that. I realize most people born outside of 

English-speaking countries won't be getting 

any major roles because pronunciation is so 

important. I wouldn't expect a foreign person 

who didn't speak Japanese perfectly to get a 

lead part in an NHK or TBS show, and it is the 

same with me in America. Conversing with 

friends is one thing; sounding clear enough for 

a movie or drama is something else completely. 

I remember filming for Crazy, Stupid, Love 

and I couldn't say ‘Beverly Hills’ without an 

accent. Fortunately, Steve Carell helped me. 

That was only a small part, which is fine. What 

I find frustrating is the typecasting of Asian, 

African-American, and Hispanic actors. Asian 

guys, for example, always seem to either be 

nerds or businessmen. Why can’t they be the 

heroes? I think there is a race problem in 

Hollywood and I’m not just talking about the 

film industry. A male friend told me that when 

he goes to restaurants with Caucasian friends 

they tend to get the best table; but things are 

different when he goes with Asian people. It’s a 

big issue, but I still love L.A. and am grateful for 

the opportunities I’ve had. Playing a ballerina, 

kissing Keira Knightley, washing a penguin in 

a bikini … there have been a lot of fun roles.” 

NINA FUJII 

Born to an American mother and Japanese 

father, Fujii moved to L.A. two years ago. 

She’s set to feature in the film Bond of Justice: 

Kizuna, due out later this year. 

“The topic of whitewashing is brought up a 

lot in Los Angeles. Hollywood’s a tough place 

to go to and succeed, and I think it can be 

particularly hard on Asian actors. Some of 

my Japanese friends will be lucky to get two 

or three auditions a month, whereas I get 

them almost every day as I look Caucasian. 

Of course, that's a big advantage, but it also 

means there's more competition. It feels like 

I'm somewhere in the middle. I've tried for 

Japanese parts and casting directors have 

basically looked at me and said, "What are 

you doing here?" Having been born and bred 

in Tokyo, it feels strange to be told you should 

be going for European or American roles. 

I think there's still this misconception 

in Hollywood that Japanese actors make for 

good samurai or geisha characters, but can't 

do much else. I would love to be able to show 

people around the world that we have much 

more to offer. Contrarily, to do that I believe 

it's important to adopt more of an American 

mind-set. Recently my acting coach asked 

me if I thought I was pretty. I said no, which 

is a typical Japanese response, and from his 

reaction I realized how important confidence 

is in order to grow in this industry. I was 

always taught to be modest back home, but to 

do well in the States you need to change your 

mentality and adapt to the surroundings.” 


Director Rupert Sanderss 

Words by Alec Jordan 

STRAIGHT TALKING 

WITH GHOST IN 

THE SHELL’S 

KEY PLAYERS 

Those connected to the film, including the 

director of the original anime, Mamoru Oshii, 

have responded to the whitewashing criticism 

with everything from praise for Johansson’s 

performance to the argument that The Major 

wasn’t meant to be Japanese in the first place. 

With the film’s world premiere having taken 

place on March 16, and the Japan release 

scheduled for April 7, and with tensions on the 

rise, here’s what some of the most prominent 

voices* regarding the film have to say about 

the controversy, as well as the making of the 

movie in general. 

SCARLETT JOHANSSON ON… 

…her first reaction to Ghost in the Shell 

I didn't know the material, and when the script came to me, it also 

came with a copy of the anime, and when I first saw it, it seemed 

quite daunting … but it was alluring. 

…what drew her to The Major 

I started to imagine that this was a character who was living a 

unique experience of somebody who has an idea of who she 

thought she was, and then who she isn't now – the life she's living 

now. And then the person she feels she is, this sort of gnawing and 

clawing feeling she has in her ghost. And being able to play these 

three sides – we called them the ego and the superego and the id – 

that was pretty enticing for me. 

…her physical preparation for the film 

Of course I did a lot of training because I wanted to be able to have 

the physical presence of somebody who's very capable, and then 

of course I had to be quite capable. Luckily I'd had a lot of fight 

training and weapons training for all those little Marvel movies. 

[laughs] So it comes in quite handy because there's a kind of shared 

vocabulary. 

…what she hopes the fans take away 

It’s a story about the loss of innocence, and kind of rebirth that you 

can have from that. And I hope that the fans can connect with The 

Major in the way that I connected with her. 

© Jasin Boland 

SCREEN LEGEND KITANO “BEAT” TAKESHI, WHO PLAYS 

THE CHARACTER OF ARAMAKI IN THE FILM, ON… 

…speaking Japanese in a mostly English language film, and the 

lengths that the cast and crew would go to cater to his needs 

I said I hated speaking English, so they told me that Japanese was fine; 

I said I was terrible at remembering lines and made all kinds of other 

complaints. Finally, they had Scarlett Johansson holding my cue cards 

for me! [laughs] 

…how right Johansson was for the role 

Scarlett as an actress has 20 years of experience, and she has the perfect 

look for a character who is fitting into the cyberpunk world. Even 

if you look at her toughness and her figure, she’s impressive, and she’s 

right on with her ability to represent the kind of nuances of an android 

with human thoughts. She has truly embodied those central questions 

of her character: “Who am I?” “Am I good or evil?” 

…what it took to bring him on board 

I initially thought that it would be impossible for me to play the character 

of Aramaki. But [director Rupert Sanders] pursued me around 

the world, and finally explained to me that we would be presenting 

this work that had its origins on the island of Japan, and how our 

whole team would be fighting together like comrades in arms to do this 

project justice. 


I STAND BY MY 

DECISION: SHE'S THE 

BEST ACTRESS OF HER 

GENERATION 

IT FEELS WILDLY 

INAPPROPRIATE FOR AN 

AMERICAN STUDIO AND 

THE BRITISH DIRECTOR 

OF SNOW WHITE AND THE 

HUNTSMAN TO PICK IT UP 

AND SELL IT BACK TO US 

EMILY YOSHIDA, FILM AND ANIME 

CRITIC, ON… 

…her initial reaction to seeing a movie 

still of Johansson as The Major 

The image of a famous white actress in 

Kusanagi's signature black bob seemed like 

another depressing example of Asian actors 

being removed from Asian narratives. 


Japanese audiences, unlike American 

audiences, don't understand Motoko to 

be a Japanese character, just because she 

speaks Japanese and has a Japanese name. 

This speaks to the racial mystery zone that 

so much anime exists in, allowing viewers 

to ignore such unpleasant dynamics as 

oppression and discrimination even as 

they enjoy stories that are often direct 

responses to those dynamics. 

…her doubts about letting Hollywood 

have a go at a very complicated set of 

cross-cultural touchstones 

Ghost in the Shell is the product of and 

response to decades of physical erasure and 

technological alienation. It's pop cultural 

fallout, a delicately layered croissant of 

appropriation upon appropriation. It's as 

timely as ever, but it feels wildly inappropriate 

for an American studio and the British 

director of Snow White and the Huntsman to 

pick it up and sell it back to us. 

DIRECTOR RUPERT SANDERS ON… 

…why Johansson was The One, and the difference 

between actors and movie stars 

You know, you want to take Ghost in the Shell to 

the world, and I think she is such an incredible 

actor that she's grown to such a global appeal, 

and I think to me, that's really what is so impressive 

about her as an actor. She's transcended 

so many of those levels, she's been doing it for 

20 years and along those 20 years she's made 

incredibly intelligent choices and made some 

really seminal films, especially around this 

topic, from Her to Lucy to Under the Skin. I 

mean, you work with actors and then you work 

with movie stars. Actors are incredible, but 

there's something that movie stars have – and 

there's very few of them. For me, I stand by my 

decision: she's the best actress of her generation, 

and I was flattered and honored that she would 

be in this film. 

…why the criticism doesn’t bother him, and 

why he thinks the proof will be in the viewing 

I think any criticism hasn't really come from Japan. 

I think [original anime director Mamoru] 

Oshii very categorically came out and enforced 

her as The Major, but to me, that's not going to 

silence the critics, because nothing really silences 

critics … I hope the conversation changes 

into what the film does do and how different 

it is from what people were expecting. She 

really can speak for herself ultimately in the 

film, and I think people will judge her and say, 

"Yeah, she was totally the right decision." 

…the ambiguous ethnicity of advanced 

androids 

I don't think it's an accident that the cyborgs 

of Ghost in the Shell, including Motoko, are 

more “anime-looking” than the characters 

who are mere Japanese or American 

humans. This is not to say that they are supposed 

to be white, but they are not explicitly 

Japanese, either. They're a supposed sign of 

progress in a blindly technologized future, 

where not only can an individual's race 

be augmented away; one's entire physical 

being can be. 

…why Japanese viewers may have an 

entirely different take on the subject of 

whitewashing 


* We heard from Johansson, Sanders, and Kitano at a press event in Tokyo, and Emily 

Yoshida’s remarks come from her 2016 article on Verge.com: bit.ly/TWEmilyYoshida

[ PROMOTION ] 

FIVE WORDS AND WAYS 

TO WOW YOUR NEW BOSS 

Ready to meet your new Japanese colleagues? Even if you’re feeling a little unprepared, these 

words and phrases will be sure to help you through your first days and weeks on the job 

1 

2 

3 

BRUSH UP THAT JIKOSHOUKAI 

(SELF-INTRODUCTION) 

Every new hire will be expected to 

stand up in front of the company 

and tell a little bit about themselves 

– ideally in Japanese. You’ll want 

to be able to tell people your name, 

where you come from, and an 

interesting fact about yourself, so 

practice a bit before Day One! 

WE’RE ALL TIRED 

“Otsukare sama desu” literally 

means “you must be tired,” but in 

the office, it’s basically a formal way 

of saying “hi,” and it’s a common 

greeting you’ll be exchanging more 

times than you can count. On your 

way home, use the past tense form: 

“otsukare sama deshita.” 

I DON’T MEAN TO INTRUDE 

You’ll find yourself apologizing a 

great deal in business situations, 

even though you may not always be 

sorry. “Shitsurei shimasu” is a way 

to say excuse me, but can be used to 

enter the room, or when you talk to 

your boss or colleague. 

YOU’VE ALWAYS 

GOT MY BACK 

The direct translation of “osewa 

ni natte orimasu” is “you always 

take care of me,” but it’s a basic 

greeting for people outside of 

your company. It’s what you say 

first, before your name, when 

you make a phone call, or take 

a phone call. It's also what you 

write first in an email. 

DIAL UP THE POLITENESS 

If Japanese grammar weren’t 

tricky enough, there’s also a 

different set of words and phrases 

that you use in formal business 

situations. This honorific language 

is known as keigo, and while 

you’re not expected to know how 

to use it perfectly, knowing that it 

exists is a good start. 

4 

5 

WANT TO LEARN 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 


JOB cigarette paper advertisement by Alfons Mucha, 1898 

DID YOU KNOW? 

Alfons Mucha's art was so influential that it was originally named "The Mucha Style" 

before becoming synonomous with the Art Nouveau genre. Go check it out this month... 

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

"Sight of Photojournalism” Adam Pretty (Getty Images) 

ART & MUSIC 

ATHLETE EXHIBITION 

With the start of the Tokyo 2020 games just a short 1,200 days away, the city is quickly easing into an all-out Olympic fever. This 21_21 Design 

Sight-helmed exhibition is taking advantage of the epidemic with its exploration into the world of sport design. Training, measuring and supporting 

athletes requires advanced tech and design in the 21st century, and often, this enterprising field attains proficiency at the same height 

as the athletes themselves. Stretch your muscles and mind and make your way out to this exhibit this spring. 

21_21 Design Sight Until June 4 www.2121designsight.jp 

THE ART WORLD 

OUR PICK OF THE CITY’S BEST EXHIBITIONS 

Compiled by Luca Eandi 

© Disney Enterprises, Inc. 

THE ART OF DISNEY 

– THE MAGIC OF ANIMATION 

It’s all led up to this, Disney fans – a lifetime 

spent watching films, dozens of trips out to 

Tokyo Disneyland and roomfuls of branded 

merchandise – all culminating to coming face 

to face with the barebone sketches from 

where it all began. This exhibition features 

nearly 500 drawings, storyboards and animation 

cels from the entertainment giant – from 

1928’s Steamboat Willie all the way to last 

year’s Moana. This show is sure to arouse the 

interest of hordes of Tokyo-area Disney fans, 

so prepare for lines. 

Miraikan National Museum of 

Emerging Science and Innovation 

Until September 24 da2017.jp 


“Urban Tapestry No. 009” Wing Chan, 2014 

M 

MUSIC 

Three new exciting music releases 

for the month of April 

THE NEW 

PORNOG- 

RAPHERS: 

WHITEOUT 

CONDITIONS 

Following the 

2014 album Brill 

Bruisers, this 

supergroup led 

by accomplished songwriters AC Newman, 

Neko Case and Dan Bejar return with their new 

effort, Whiteout Conditions. If the first single, 

“High Ticket Attractions,” is any indication, 

we should be in for another set of supremely 

invigorating and mature power pop. 

WING CHAN: URBAN TAPESTRY 

Hong Kong-born photographer, designer and montage artist Wing Chan creates 

unique images out of his visions of urban clutter. Growing up within the confines 

of Kowloon Walled City, a truly wonderful mess of concrete and humanity, surely 

had an immense influence on his particular aesthetic. His photomontages are 

artfully crafted to create surreal scenes out of the geometrical patterns we're all 

accustomed to in our urban everyday lives. Crosswalks, shipping containers and 

prosaic street views evoke this artist’s unique perspective. 

Gallery Kanon Until May 1 www.gallerykanon.com 

THE ELEGANT OTHER: 

CROSS-CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS IN FASHION AND ART 

As Yokohama’s port grew 

in size and traffic in the 

mid-19th century, a cultural 

exchange started taking 

place between Japan and 

the West. This exhibition 

focuses on the melding of 

the fashions of the time, as 

the divergent cultures discovered 

beauty in each other 

and began incorporating 

elements into their respective 

clothing to reach new 

aesthetic heights. More than 

one hundred dresses as well 

as hundreds of accessories, 

handicrafts, paintings and 

photographs make up this 

stunning exhibit. 

Yokohama Museum of Art 

Until June 25 

yokohama.art.museum 

GUIDED BY VOICES: 

AUGUST BY CAKE 

Robert Pollard’s 100th album since Guided By 

Voices’ 1986 debut is also his first-ever double 

LP. One more entry cementing him as rock’s 

most prolific songwriter, a title well-earned with 

decades' worth of catalog in his back pocket. 

The current lineup of the band features a 

couple of GBV veterans and a few new faces, 

but Pollard’s signature sound is a constant. 

AIMEE MANN: 

MENTAL 

ILLNESS 

According to the 

singer herself, 

Aimee Mann’s 

ninth album is 

her "saddest, 

slowest, most 

acoustic, if-they're-all-waltzes-so-be-it-record" 

to date. This should make long-time fans of 

her music excited since her penchant for 

melancholia and tragic humor is in large part 

why they’ve been on board since her stint with 

‘Til Tuesday in the mid-80s. 

Turner, Dress, 1870s, Collection of the Kyoto Costume Institute (KCI), Photo by Richard Haughton 


SUPER UKIYO-E – THE EDO CODE 

ART 

ESSENTIAL INFO 

"Super Ukiyo-e" and "Tabegamisama" (below) are being held at the same 

venue until May 21, and visitors can purchase combined tickets to see 

both exhibitions at a reduced price. 

Address: Kayabacho Ichome Heiwa Bldg,1-8-1 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku 

Web: superukiyoe.com, tabegamisama.com 

Hidden in an abandoned building on the backstreets 

of Nihonbashi lies an animated world of 

Japanese Ukiyo-e. Serving as a beginner’s guide 

to the traditional art of woodblock printing, this 

exhibition aims to “digitally decode the many 

secrets hidden within Ukiyo-e.” The art form 

was popular during the Edo period, and it would 

often express popular culture through its images 

– for example, prints might feature Kabuki stars 

or Oiran (courtesans) with hidden (and often 

witty) cultural references embedded within the 

artwork. Since this was a time of censorship, the 

artists needed to cleverly disguise their hidden 

secrets, gossip, or satire – in this way, it could 

loosely be viewed as the tabloids of the times. 

Rather than simply displaying framed 

pieces of art on a wall, “Super Ukiyo-e – The 

Edo Code” showcases 3D pieces that have been 

enlarged and animated using new video technologies. 

You’ll get a feel for the old city of Edo, 

the fashion trends, and the lively atmosphere 

inside a Kabuki theater. The journey begins 

with a mini bridge (representing the historic 

Nihonbashi bridge) with a backdrop of moving 

scenes depicting everyday life in the Edo era. 

Walk over the bridge to enter a room with a 

wall-to-wall screen serving as a kind of catwalk 

– take a seat and admire different fashions as 

“models” (who are life-sized versions of famous 

Ukiyo-e characters) float across the screen. 

Perhaps the most impressive moment comes 

when you enter a large room with huge screens 

that show off a massive, moving representation 

of Hokusai’s “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa.” 

Don’t leave the room too soon, as there’s a 

mighty sea creature waiting to leap from the 

ocean depths. And towards the end of the exhibition, 

be sure to walk up close to the lit-up images 

of courtesans who stare out from behind bars 

– we don’t want to give away too much, but let’s 

just say, they’ll be happy to see you. 

TABEGAMISAMA – THE 

MYSTERIOUS RESTAURANT 

OF THE FOOD GOD 

Held in the same building as “Super 

Ukiyo-e” (above), this is a digital, interactive 

art exhibition that aims to express 

the beauty and main elements found 

within Japanese washoku. Although 

at the very end you do get to sample 

some typical – and delicious – Japanese 

food, the main part of this exhibition 

consists of four spaces that make use of 

projection mapping, video technology, 

body mapping, and special effects to 

represent all that makes local cuisine so 

unique. Produced by Moment Factory, 

a Canada-based digital art group, it’s 

unlike anything you’ve seen before. 

For a quick preview watch our video 

at tinyurl.com/TW-tabegamisama 


Communal 

Creativity 

MORE SHARED 

CREATIVE SPACES 

IN TOKYO 

ART 

Words by Paul McInnes 

A new shared art space provides a hub for artists looking for innovative 

ways to live, create, and showcase their work 

Photo by Stephan Jarvis 

In the late 90s and early Noughties, 

something magical started to happen in a 

certain part of eastern Tokyo. Once a gritty 

garment district, it began to metamorphose 

into an unofficial arts hub and stylish (and 

cheaper) alternative to Aoyama, Daikanyama 

and the usual suspects. The press even gave this 

area and scene (Bakurocho, Kodenmacho and 

Monzen-Nakacho) a catchy name: CET or Central 

East Tokyo. 

Like most 21st century mega cities, Tokyo 

is protean and trends come and go. CET’s time 

has been over for a while, and other locations 

have taken up its mantle. One such area is 

Sengoku, a hop, skip and jump from Sugamo 

on the Yamanote line. While Sugamo revels in 

its “Harajuku for geriatrics” tagline, Sengoku is 

more youthful, sophisticated, and calmer. It has 

cute backstreets littered with artisanal toy shops 

and French bakeries, and it’s the location of the 

hip Tokyo Fashion Art College. 

The latest addition to the area is the Sengoku 

Art Space, owned and run by charismatic Canadian 

Lloyd Cunningham. The Toronto native and 

long-term Tokyoite is CEO of media, marketing 

and tech firm Robotag. He is also a passionate 

advocate of art and monozukuri (craftsmanship). 

A skilled carpenter and artist himself, Cunningham, 

who studied fine arts and architecture, sees 

his new space as “essentially a pilot project. It’s 

part artist live-and-work space, part showroom, 

part event space, and part studio for design/build 

projects. But at the core is a drive towards being 

a creative space or hub. That said, part of what 

we are doing here is 

an exploration and a 

process of discovery.” 

The Sengoku 

space has already 

played host to emerging 

English photographer 

Stephan Jarvis’s 

first solo exhibition, 

and Cunningham 

plans to build on this 

by establishing closer 

bonds with the local 

community by running 

arts and crafts 

classes as well as 

calligraphy, drawing 

and painting lessons 

for kids and adults. 

Cunningham, who 

basically renovated 

the space singlehandedly from found and 

recycled materials, wants the project to 

exemplify the rejection of the ready-made 

and prefab aesthetic of modern times. “We 

seek to create a truly authentic experience – 

one that’s not purchased or commercialized. 

Instead we create it for ourselves.” 

There are numerous communal spaces 

popping up in the Japanese capital but most focus 

on servicing the needs of a new generation 

of “global nomads” – people who can work anywhere 

as long as they have a laptop and desk. 

What makes Sengoku Art Space different is the 

focus on art, collaboration and the sharing of 

ideas in addition to mentoring ability. Cunningham 

has even established his own carpentry 

and woodwork business, Roidoworks (a play on 

the katakana pronunciation of Lloyd Works), 

and plans to carve out a future inspired by 

Japanese shokunin (artisans). 

The Canadian Renaissance man has 

plans for Sengoku and the future of creative 

communal spaces. “We’re basically nonprofit,” 

Cunningham says. “We have no foreseeable 

revenue model, and are just hoping for the 

space to generate enough cashflow to sustain 

itself. When we first started renovating the 

space, I wouldn’t have believed we could 

come this far. If we can build a community of 

creatives here, and make it work, then I would 

like to seek out other spaces to refurbish into 

artists’ live-and-work spaces too.” 

Sengoku Art Space: 4-38-10 Sengoku, Bunkyo-ku 

NAGATACHO GRID 

Opened this February, Nagatacho Grid is 

a mammoth, stylish space for freelancers, 

startup entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations 

and major businesses, artists, 

researchers and students. The Grid is 

comprised of office spaces, conference 

rooms, parking lots, a café and rooftop 

space – and everything is shared and free 

to use for members. 3-53 Hirakawacho, 

Chiyoda-ku, 03-5759-0377, grid.tokyo.jp 

RYOZAN PARK 

Launched five years ago as one 

family’s attempt to rejuvenate their 

local area, Ryozan Park has since 

become a vibrant community based 

on diversity, collaboration and worklife 

balance. Following the success of 

the first building in Sugamo, a second 

co-working space was developed in 

Otsuka in 2014, broadening its reach 

to support working parents by providing 

care for preschool-age children. 

Facilities include a rooftop terrace, 

gym, kitchen, library, and even bedrooms. 

It’s basically a top-end home/ 

workspace for urban professionals. 

1-9-1 Sugamo, Toshima-ku, and 

3-36-7 Minami Otsuka, Toshima-ku, 

03-6912-0304, info@ryozanpark.jp 


1 

3 

2 

4 

7 

8 

5 6 

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

1 

APR 1-30 

2 

APR 7-30 

3 

APR 15-16 

4 

APR 1-2 

ALFONS MUCHA 

In celebration of 60 years of 

diplomatic relations between the 

Czech Republic and Japan, this 

exhibit highlights the lauded Art 

Nouveau artist. 

Where: The National Art Center, 

Tokyo 

How much: ¥1,600 

More info: www.nact.jp 

MARVEL: “AGE OF HEROES” 

EXHIBITION 

This show pulls together nearly 

80 years of Marvel Comics 

history along with costumes and 

assorted memorabilia from the 

popular films. 

Where: Tokyo City View 


More info: tokyoweekender.com 

PAPER EXPO 2017 

See papery things from all 

over the globe, all in Asakusa, 

at this expo that will prove hard 

to resist for Tokyo-area pulp 

nerds. 

Where: Metropolitan Industrial 

Trade Center Taito 

How much: ¥500 

More info: tegamisha.com 

CHOCOLAT DE EASTER 

Well-known French chocolatier 

Valrhona is celebrating the 

Easter holiday with this fun 

family event that includes 

all sorts of chocolate-related 

activities. 

Where: Hillside Forum 

How much: Free 

More info: www.cdeaster.com 

APR 1-30 

THÉODORE CHASSÉRIAU: 

PARFUM EXOTIQUE 

With 110 oil paintings, watercolors, 

sketches and prints, this is the largest 

exhibition of the French painter’s 

works to be displayed in Japan. 

Where: The National Museum 

of Western Art 



6 APR 1-30 

THE JOURNEY TO EUROPA 

BY KLOKA 

Take a journey into outer space 

and visit one of the moons orbiting 

Jupiter in this exhibition exploring 

what lies beneath the icy shell of 

Europa. 

Where: Space Museum TeNQ 



5 7 

APR 8 

SENSOJI FLOWER 

FESTIVAL 

A special service celebrates the 

Buddha’s birthday as an altar 

with a statue of the child 

Buddha inside is decorated 

with flowers. 

Where: Senso-ji Temple 


More info: www.senso-ji.jp 

8 APR 22-23 

EARTH DAY TOKYO 2017 

This market has an eco-friendly 

focus and gathers more than 

100,000 visitors each year. 

Come and get locally sourced 

vegetables and other delicious 

foods. 

Where: Yoyogi Park 


More info: www.earthday-tokyo.org 


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 


People, 

Parties, Places 

TOKYO’S LONGEST RUNNING SOCIETY PAGE WITH BILL HERSEY 

More than happy the weather’s been nice for this time of 

the year, so I am getting out more to go check things out. 

First, you’re too late to take advantage of the popular 

ice-skating rink at Tokyo Midtown. Spring’s around the 

corner and the cherry blossoms should be here (or been and gone) by 

now. The rink has been replaced by an attractive miniature Mt. Fuji. 

Time goes on. 

In closing this part of my column, I have to mention this: my carelessness 

and stupidity cost me a considerable amount of yen. I was in 

a coffee shop with a friend and 

left my coat and bag with him 

when I went to the restroom. 

Unfortunately, the mall management 

had moved the men’s 

room from the third floor to the 

second floor, so it was a bit of 

a walk. On the way back to the 

café, I ran into another friend 

and we spent some time catching 

up. As I finally got back to 

my seat, two guys who looked 

suspicious got up from their table 

and left. When I was about 

to leave, I discovered that my 

bag, which I had put under my 

coat, was gone. Needless to say, 

I wasn’t happy about this. I’ve 

forgotten things in coffee shops 

before, but I've always gotten 

them back with everything – 

including my cash. I still feel 

that Japan is basically an honest 

country. Even so, it’s better to 

be safe than sorry. Be careful, 

my friends. It only takes one 

bad person – and as most of us 

know, there are some out there. 

Bill with Miss Japan 

Priyanka Yoshikawa 

and Miss ireland 

Niamh Kennedy 

THANKS FOR 

SO MUCH 

More wonderful memories – 

this time for the late Filipino 

Secretary of Foreign Affairs 

and Ambassador, Domingo L. 

Siazon Jr., who passed away May 3, 2016. To honor Domingo, his wife 

Kazuko donated seven intricately executed pointillist paintings by 

distinguished Filipino painter Jack Salud to be on permanent display 

in Siazon Hall at the Philippine embassy here in Tokyo. Kazuko, the 

Filipino deputy chief of mission Eduardo Menez and his wife Marissa 

hosted the special evening to honor Domingo and open the exhibition. 

I got there a bit late, but was able to hear Kazuko’s inspirational 

speech about Domingo’s many accomplishments over the years. I was 

lucky to know and have him as a good friend. It was wall-to-wall people 

at the exhibition, with many Japanese government VIPs and close 

friends of the Siazons. There was a nice memorial with many distinguished 

guests. The buffet, catered by Dean & Deluca, was excellent. 

We already wrote about the loss of the late and great Jane Yonamine 

but will run a few photos of guests at the celebration of life memorial 

service that the Yonamine family held at the Tokyo American 

Club for this “mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend and 

inspiration to many.” The program included a welcome, an opening 

prayer, words of remembrance, a video of the W. Yonamine Pearl Co., 

a family video, shared memories 

and a heartfelt thank you. 

It closed beautifully with one 

of my favorite songs – “Somewhere 

Over the Rainbow.” 

TAC’s bountiful Japanese buffet 

was perfect for the occasion. 

More recently, the Ireton 

family – Bill, his sister Asia, and 

wife Charo – held both a wake 

and funeral for Bill and Asia’s 

mother Kikuko at the Franciscan 

Chapel Center in Roppongi. 

Bill had contracted our mutual 

friend Tsukasa Shiga, who is 

president of Ceremony, one of 

Japan’s top funeral and wedding 

companies. As time was of 

the essence, Shiga sent his most 

professional people and they 

did a beautiful job of working 

with the Ireton family and the 

Chapel Center. The flowers, 

the music, the program, and 

the Japanese food for both the 

wake and funeral were all perfect. 

We here at the Weekender 

extend our condolences to the 

friends and families of all these 

very special people. 

MIN-ON’S SUPER 

TANGO SHOW 

I’ve seen great Tango shows on 

Broadway, London’s West End, 

and of course, here in Tokyo. I enjoyed them all, but I felt the show 

that Min-On Concert Association recently brought to Tokyo was the 

best ever. The title of the musical production was Dramatic Tango 

2017 / Horacio Romo Sexteto. It featured the most popular tango music, 

played at its very best by the six piece orchestra. 

The dancers were all stunning and super talented, and have all 

been hailed as the best back in Buenos Aires as well as at competitions 

worldwide. The costumes were glitzy, glamorous, and sexy, and 

the choreography for the stage sets was perfect. 


SALUD IN MEMORY OF 

DOMINGO SIAZON 

1. Kimiko Yamamoto, Kazuko 

Siazon, Musa Kagawa, Yukiko 

Mabuchi 2. Philippine Deputy Chief 

of Mission Eduardo Menez and wife 

Marissa 3. Anna Bertels Ishikawa, 

Kazuko Siazon, her daughter-in-law 

Meg, Atsuko Kume 4. Philippine 

embassy staff Eleanor Fukuda, 

Fumiko Fujie, Kanami Namiki, Mary 

Joy Doran Mortel 5. Reiko Ryuzoji, 

Emi Anzai, Lilo Maruyama, Kazuko 

Siazon, Mariko Kosaka 

3 

1 2 

4 5 

6 7 

8 

10 

9 

12 

11 

13 

MIN-ON’S FANTASTIC 

TANGO SHOW 

6. Argentine tango singer and three dancers 

with model and actor Hide Kusakari 7. Yemeni 

Ambassador Samir Khamis, his wife Jamila 

8. Bill with two members of the tango troupe 9. 

Argentine Minister Felipe Gardella, dancer, Min- 

On Mg. director Kazuto Ito 10. Min-On President 

Hiroyasu Kobayashi (top left), the band leader 

Horacio Romo (1st row, second from left) and 

Argentine Ambassador Alan Beraud with the troupe 

14 

MUSICAL NIGHT AT 

MIDTOWN OAKWOOD 

11. The multi-talented Michiyo with Oakwood 

GM (all Asia) Martin Fluck (left) and music 

promoter Michael J. Distasio (right) 12. Swiss 

Chamber of Commerce president Michael 

Mroczek, Lueng Hotel’s CEO Tao Zhou, 

Martin 13. Ela-El Japeth (Israel), Phil Stilwell, 

Attorney, Claire Suni, Polina Grabaruick 

(Israel) 14. Christian Schmitz, Konica 

Minolta’s Kiyotaka Fujii, Emi Skin Clinic 

director Emi Nakazaki 


RIP, JANE YONAMINE 

AND KIKUTO IRETON 

1. Kumi Sato, Paul Yonamine, Ernie 

Higa, Meric Okawara 2. Marty 

Kuehnert, Machiko Kondo, Robert 

Whiting 3. Tony, Karl Che, Alex 

Jampel, Mr. & Mrs. Larry Mojumdar 

4. The Ireton family, Matthew, 

Edward, Thomas, their parents Bill, 

and Charo, and Lynda Yonamine 

5. Thomas Ireton and Masako 

Koyama 6. Matthew Ireton and Lisa 

Leon 7. Yasuko Kikuchi, Asia Ireton 

1 2 

5 

3 

4 

7 

6 

8 

9 10 

11 

48 | APRIL 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER 

12 

13 

KUWAIT RECEPTION – 

TOWER HOTEL 

8. The talented hostess, her son 

Khalid 9. Lilo Maruyama with Jamila 

(Yemen) 10. Businessman Nambusan 

and friend, with Gaimucho’s 

Katsuhiko Takahashi and his wife 

Mami 11. UAE Ambassador Khalid 

Omran Al Ameri, Japanese actress/ 

dancer Mako Hattori, and her 

mother, a former geisha 12. The 

hosting couple, Kuwaiti Ambassador 

Abdul Rahman Humood Al-Otaibi 

and his wife Jamilah, Lilo, pianist 

Reiko Awazu 13. Thai Ambassador 

Bansarn Bunnag, Kyoko Spector, Mina 

Tachimura, Thai Airways assistant 

mgr. of marketing

After the two-hour show, I had the opportunity to mix and mingle 

with the cast, as well as with some local VIPs who enjoyed the 

show as much as I did. It was special in every way. Kudos to Min-On, 

who do so much in bringing great international entertainers to Japan 

and putting on Japanese cultural events all around the world. 

Some years ago, I spent a few hours in Argentina, where I partied 

with Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. We both took a day off 

after the Brazil Carnival to visit the spectacular Iguaçu Falls which 

are shared by Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. Looking back, I could 

kick myself in the butt for not visiting Buenos Aires when I was so 

close. Everyone I talk to who’s been there says it’s one of the most 

beautiful cities in the world. 

KUWAIT NATIONAL DAY RECEPTION 

Kuwaiti Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Humood Al-Otaibi and his wife 

Jamilah hosted a glittering reception at the Palace Hotel. The occasion 

was to celebrate the 56th National Day and 26th anniversary of the 

liberation of the state of Kuwait, and it was held in the hotel’s spacious 

and beautiful Aoi Room. 

The Al-Otaibis are a very popular family, and there was a full 

house at the midday event. Jamilah is a very fashionable lady who 

also possesses artistic talent. She and her crew worked with hotel 

staff on the spectacular decorations and food for the party. Highlights 

included a tall ice carving of the Kuwait Towers, and a variety 

of sweets including plenty of chocolate and dates. I really liked the 

big model of a dhow (a traditional Arabian ship) that decorated one 

part of the room. I spent a night on one of these the last time I visited 

Kuwait. It was an exciting experience. 

I enjoyed talking with the relatively new UAE Ambassador, Khalid 

Omran Al Ameri: he’s quite young and very international. I had the 

privilege of visiting his country six times and drove to all seven of the 

Emirates on one visit there. I also enjoyed talking with Thai Ambassador 

Bansarn Bunnag, who took over the ambassadorship last year. It 

was also nice to see the popular and super businessman Nambu-san, 

looking genki as usual. 

MUSICIAN MICHIYO AT OAKWOOD MIDTOWN 

The many Oakwoods in Japan – and, I’m sure, around the world – are 

not only a home away from home for seasoned travelers who want 

the best, but also, their staff really get into the community spirit. They 

generously assisted Konishiki as he for years provided help at Christmastime 

for the victims of the Tohoku disaster, and they support 

many other worthwhile causes as well. 

My favorite Oakwood location in Midtown has a regular wine 

night every Thursday. They often have live entertainment, wine 

tasting sessions and other interesting events. It was packed recently 

when musical prodigy Michiyo showed off her talent, playing a variety 

of musical instruments. 

Other interesting guests there that night included Claire 

Hansen Suni, an accomplished lawyer who studied at Harvard 

Law School. Oakwood has just opened yet another branch here in 

Tokyo – watch this space for details. 

PEOPLE, ETC. 

The multi-talented – and super nice – Steven Hayes will release his 

latest CD, titled High Hells, on May 24. The music’s fun and Steve, 

who’s a real winner, helps so many people in need – it’d be great 

if you could show him some support. We celebrated with him and 

a bunch of friends of Indonesian business tycoon Kayapan Satya 

Dharshan. 

I drop by Junko Koshino’s boutique on Koto dori quite often. 

I’m a long-time fan of the lady whom I consider Japan’s busiest and 

most active fashion designer. The always-full-of-new-ideas designer 

is just back from Paris, and as always, has lots of new projects on 

the go. Her kimono line is always so original and colorful. She’s also 

doing more men’s fashion now, along with dynamic costumes for 

the fabulous Drum Tao dance group. When I saw her recently, I left 

the boutique with two very trendy 2017 calendars which she had designed. 

On another occasion, I stopped by the shop and she was out 

front doing a photo shoot. She was dressed in upscale Hell’s Angels 

fashion and posing on a huge motorcycle. She just never stops. 

Happy 16th birthday to Iman, the daughter of the Oman Ambassador 

Mr Khalid bin Hashil bin Mohammed Al-Muslahi and his wife 

Abeer. Abeer is a wonderful mother and always holds fantastic parties 

with lots of decorations, good food and entertainment. 

Panama Ambassador Ritter Diaz has been super busy with several 

promotional events focusing on the colorful textile art, molas, a 

handicraft of his country. I’m sorry I couldn’t get to any of the happenings 

but do have a couple of molas, which former Ambassador 

Alberto Calvo gave me, along with some imported Italian furniture, 

when he left Japan some time ago. A big muchas gracias to Ritter and 

his lovely wife Ayana. I just received a package of Panama’s much 

awarded “coffee of the year.” Talk about special! 

I was in the lobby of the Grand Hyatt waiting for a friend when I 

saw about a dozen Saudis who were among the 1,000 who accompanied 

their king to Japan for his official visit. They were all dressed in 

Saudi national clothing and one came over to me and said, 

“Hi – we like your style. Where are you from?” 

“I’m American,” I told him. "I visited your country as a guest of 

the national guard for the great Janadriya Culture Festival when I 

was invited by Ambassador Fawzi Shobokshi.” 

“We know the Shobokshi family!” he said, and called four of his 

friends who all came over to where I was sitting. 

We talked for several minutes before they had to get in a limousine 

and head out for a party. It was really a nice impromptu get together. 

Thanks to the Weekender, years running a club in Roppongi, 

embassies, airlines, and so many other gigs, I’ve traveled all over this 

old world of ours. Even so I sometimes get surprised when something 

happens that makes me realize that it really is true – the world can 

be very small. 

Hilton vocalist Glynis, Miss Universe Japan Hiroko 

Mina, and entertainer Steven Haynes 

Rumi, Dermozone's Atsushi Suda, Emily, Bill, Hiroko 

Mina, Dermozone CEO Kayapan Satya Dharshan, 

Miss Supranational Japan 2016 Risa Nagashima 

Dunhill Pres. Jörg Auernhammer, Ex German Snack 

Bar owner Horst, Hiroshi, Kozo Tashima 


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Tokyo Weekender April 2017

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