KS #179 April 2015

April 2015 • issue 179

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Plus+

Kansai’s Monthly Living Guide • Articles • Events • Classifieds • Maps + much more

Meet the Ink Master和彫り：伝統美の魅力

Sake Sampling in Nada

Pilates to Perk Up Your Posture

Osaka Vegetarian and Vegan Delights

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #179 APRIL 2015 | kansaiscene.com 3

20 FoodspottingThree vegetarian and vegan spots to excite your tastebuds this spring.

Food & Drink Text: Kansai Scene

DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. We take no responsibility for the quality or content of advertisements. Public and private parties app-proached by those claiming to work for or on behalf of Kansai Scene should call this office to confirm the truth of any such claim, especially where money may be involved.

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

What’s on Around Kansai

Film p22

Events & Festivals p25

Art p30

Live Music p32

Club p36

Classifieds p40

Maps p44

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

Publisher ...........................................Daniel Lee

Managing Editor .............Celia Polkinghorne

Editor ............................................ Jason Haidar

Production Manager ..................Misa Matsui

Accounts Manager ..................... Michiko Lee

Art .............................................. Deanna Wright

Event & Festival .........................Yuki Uchibori

Film Reviews .................................Adam Miller

Live Music ................................ Phillip Jackson

Club ..................................................Terumi Tsuji

Classifieds .............................Michael Gribben

Write for Kansai Scene

If you would like to write for KS, please contact [email protected] after reviewing our writers guidelines: kansaiscene.com/write-for-us

COVER PHOTO: This month’s cover photo of wabori master Hori Hiro was taken in his home by Jason Haidar.

Contact Kansai Scene

General [email protected]

Editorial [email protected]

Advertising [email protected]

Tel. 06-6539-1717

Fax. 06-7635-4791

Address Osaka-shi, Nishi-ku, Shinmachi 3-5-7, Eiko Bldg. 2F Mojoworks KK

Website kansaiscene.com

Kansai Scene is proudly published and printed by Mojoprint

Connect withKansai Scene…Catch up with KS on social media

08 The Art of Wabori Meet Hori Hiro, the traditional Japanese tattoo master whose life’s work is to preserve the art of wabori.

Feature Bilingual 日本語付 Text: Jason Haidar

07 Getting Inked at Invasion Club Hori Benny is an American tattoo artist in a foreign land, inking out a living in his very own Osaka studio.

Business Matters Text: Kansai Scene

14 Spring Sake Sampling Venture out to Kobe’s Nada breweries to sample some of Japan’s finest sake.

Feature Text: Julian Houseman

12 Pilates for Pros and RookiesStrengthen, tone, and tighten at Pilatesroom AWAZA.

Promotional Feature Text: Chloé Grayson

16 Craft Beer CornerNamba craft beer bars boast their international brews, local ji-biru, and delicious complementary menus.

Food & Drink Text: Jason Haidar

Inside this Issue

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kansaiscene @kansaiscene kansaiscene Kansai-SceneFacebook Twitter Instagram Meetup

KANSAI SCENE MAGAZINE | ISSUE #179 APRIL 2015 | kansaiscene.com4

Out & AboutGot some news or need some advice about living in Kansai?

Email your suggestions to [email protected]

Readers Photo: Cherry blossom petals fill the air at Osaka Castle Park, a popular spot for a hanami party. Photo by Tim Wilkinson. Send us your best seasonal shots to [email protected] and win a KS t-shirt if selected!

Osaka Ink Festival 2015Our cover feature this month is all about tattoo art, and if it sparks your curiosity, why not check out the Straight-Life tattoo convention being held in the first week of April at Creative Centre Osaka, Suminoe. There will be many tattoo artists there participating over the two days, there will be stalls and merchandise for sale, and guests will also have the chance to watch martial arts and wrestling competitions.

When: Sat April 4th from 3pm; Sunday April 5th from 12pm • Where: Osaka Creative

Center (former site of the Namura Shipbuilding Co.) • Access: Yotsubashi Subway

Line, Kitakagaya Stn, Exit 4, 10-min walk • Admission: ~¥3,500 • facebook.com/

events/1553654478238485

Take Your Best Shot! Grab a camera, any camera, and set a week-end or two aside to head out and capture unique images of your corner of Kansai! The date for the next Kameraoke photo exhibi-tion at Pinebrooklyn Gallery has been set for Sunday June 21st, and the Kameraoke team is calling for your photo submissions. This year’s theme is “Local Eyes” with sub-categories to be announced shortly. Let the ninth edition of Kameraoke inspire you to see your neighborhood in a new light, and take creative images showcasing its community, surroundings, and things that make it unique. Anyone can participate in this community event – professional photographers and novices alike (once a winning photo was taken with a smartphone!).

Deadline for submissions: May 31st • Details & Guidelines: kameraoke.com, or the

Facebook page • Questions & Enquiries: [email protected]

Advice Column

Your questions and concerns about living in Kansai answered by our experts

Q. As I travel out of Japan frequently, I’m not paying for the Japanese National Health Insurance. Would there be any problems?

A. Getting immediate treatment would not be a problem, especially in emergency cases. However there are some important things people without Japanese National Health Insurance should know.

Usually when you visit a hospital for the first time you will be asked to fill out a registration form and show your Japanese health insurance card. After the insurance card information is registered, you will only be charged for a portion of the expense at the hospital (usually 10-30%). If you do not have the Japanese insurance card, you will be asked to pay the full amount. After paying, if you get a Japanese insurance card issued at a later date, you can get reimbursed from the hospital by showing your newly issued health insurance card.

If you stay in Japan longer than you initially anticipate and you decide you want to join the Japanese national health insurance system, understand that you will have to pay the whole amount from the time you were considered eligible to join (usually from the date your visa was issued).

Dr. Adachi is a Physician/Pediatrician

at Kobe Kaisei Hospital, and the Post

Medical Advisor for US Consulate

General Osaka-Kobe, Japan.


Kansai Scene International PartyThe Swissôtel's 10th floor bar Nambar 10 Sports and Beers was the venue for our St. Patrick's-themed party last month. Everyone turned out in something green as we celebrated in style with some Jameson Irish Whiskey specials and an exciting lucky draw which saw the winner bag a stay for two at the Swissôtel!Photos by Robert Kodama

Party Report

Mar 21


Where are you from, and what brought you to Japan?I’m from Minneapolis, Minnesota where I was studying Japanese lan-guage at university. I made my first trip to Japan in 1999. It sounds silly in the Information Age of smartphones and infinite connectivity, but at the time it was absolutely mind blowing. It was so completely different to anything else I had ever experienced. I had begun work at a graphic design firm in the U.S., but that Japan trip kept gnawing at the back of my brain. It became an itch that I couldn’t scratch, and so I surreptitiously planned my move to Japan. I lived in Kagoshima for two years but moved to Osaka shortly after to pursue a career in tattooing.

How did you get your start tattooing?I had a lot of tattooer friends in the U.S. and always enjoyed hanging out at the local shop talking with the art-ists and learning about drawing from them. But I had absolutely zero interest in tattoos or tattooing! Anyway, when I came to Japan I was teaching English, just like everyone else. After nearly two years of it I longed to return to some kind of creative work, so in 2004 I began a tattooing apprenticeship.

What made you decide to open your own shop?Necessity. I’m an extremely particular person and I have my own way of

doing things. I spent a decade working for someone else and spent the majority of that time concocting my own recipe for an ideal tattoo shop.

What is the biggest challenge of running a tattoo shop in a country with such a tattoo taboo? Does being foreign make it easier or harder?Well, as a foreigner there are necessar-ily visa hurdles. Climbing over these requires time, patience, and most of all money. Exasperating red tape. I’m used to dealing with the little tattoo taboos here and there. If I had to name a “biggest challenge” I would say it’s con-vincing average folks to take tattooing seriously as an art-form, profession, and way-of-life. Many Japanese are simply not yet aware of their own long and proud tattooing traditions. Nor are many of them aware just how large of an institution tattooing has become in the West. Most of my customers are Japanese, though. I would say that I probably have more foreigner clients than other tattoo artists here, but it still accounts for less than 10 percent of my clientele.

Is the Japanese tattoo culture chang-ing? If so, how?As far as a general-interest in tattooing is concerned, 15 years ago it seemed that tattoos were headed for wider ac-ceptance in Japan, but I think it’s actu-

ally moving in a far more conservative direction. There are less young people, those people have less money, they certainly don’t want to risk losing their jobs over it, etc. Still, there is a far more liberal attitude among tattooers that is leading to more diversity in style and I think that’s a good thing.*Hori means “to carve.” It is a Japanese honorific similar to “sensei” or “san” but is placed in front of the name rather than behind it.

Business Matters

Inking Out a LivingSix months ago, after 10 years of making

a name for himself on Osaka’s tattoo

scene, Hori Benny opened the doors to

Invasion Club, his very own studio.

Text: Edited by KS • Images: Invasion Club

Invasion Club

• Open: 12pm–7pm• Closed: Thursdays Consultations free • Facebook: invasionclubosaka• Website: horibenny.com


Hori Hiro is one of a handful of old-style Japanese tattoo artists

preserving the art of wabori – a time-honored and often

misunderstood tradition that may be in danger of being lost.

Text & Images: Jason Haidar • Translation: Endo Tazlu

Feature

Wabori: Getting Under the Skin

A rhythmic clicking sound known as shakki cuts into the silence of the room, “sha,” “sha,” “sha,” as the needle tips from the hand-carved persimmon-wood bachi (traditional rod with nee-dles) lightly pierce and raise the flesh to inject ink into the skin. The customer remains motionless with an expression somewhere between concentration and relaxation, seemingly in a meditative-like state. The artist executing his craft is Hori Hiro, a horishi (trained artist – “Hori” means to dig or engrave, and “shi” is an honorific term) who special-izes in the mesmerizing art of wa-bori (traditional Japanese tattoo), also known as irezumi. It is an art form with a rich and complex history that is often misunderstood and unappreciated in Japan. Hailing from Kansai, with more than 30 years experience, Hori Hiro is one of a handful of lineage-trained masters left today who still practice tebori (hand carving).

A Self-Made Man Coming from humble beginnings, Hori Hiro was out on his own from the time he was 17 years old. He made a living in various ways including playing pachinko and Mahjong, until by chance, he met his calling. When he was 27, he went with a friend to watch him get an irezumi, and while watching the tattoo artist he thought, “I really want to try this.” Soon he began his apprenticeship under a sixth-gener-ation wabori master, Horimitsu-sensei, and became part of the Horimitsu tattoo family, the oldest group in Osaka dating back to the Edo period.

An apprenticeship like this usually lasts between five and 10 years, and out of 10 who take on an apprentice-ship, perhaps one will become a true wabori master. Day and night, Hori Hiro thought about his craft, striving for perfection, constantly thinking of ways to improve his skill. The complex-ity of the art became all-consuming for him. It was due to this unwavering dedication, mixed with raw talent, that

Hori Hiro quickly surpassed his peers and gained his sensei’s acknowledge-ment. After just two years, he was able to open his own shop in Osaka, and in 1983, business was booming. During this period, Hori Hiro tat-tooed countless yakuza around Japan, constantly being sought out for his expert craftsmanship.

The situation dramatically changed in 2008 with the revisal of the Anti-Bouryokudan (another term for yakuza) law, which saw a crackdown on yakuza activities. Because of this, his main client base was not getting inked like they used to, causing Hori Hiro’s business to suffer.

“Ninety-eight percent of my clients were yakuza at that time, among them they called me the number one tattoo artist in Osaka. Now I hardly tattoo any yakuza at all.”

These days, Hori Hiro’s clients are those who are simply fascinated by the art and appreciate the traditional style. He still carves his own bachi tools and mixes his own organic sumi


ink, which he gets from a shop in Nara that is more than 400 years old. Much like the tattoo shops of old, he has no sign outside his premises and operates out of his home. But he doesn’t rely on word-of-mouth alone. He has adapted with the times, using facebook and the Internet to bring in new customers. He has also had to adapt his artwork somewhat in order to keep with the times.

“The technique is the same – it is very important to keep the old style. But you have to change with the times; fashion, colors, sizes, etc.”

Hori Hiro is well versed in both wabori and more Western styles, which he can outline with a tattoo gun. However, all shading is done tradition-ally with a bachi tool which, explains Hori Hiro, gives the tattoo “color that is much more vibrant and will stay that way for 10 to 20 years.” Smaller pieces can be done in a few hours starting at around ¥20,000.

A Complex History Throughout Japanese history, tattoos have been complicated cultural sym-bols used for various purposes such as religious talismans, to mark prison-ers (bokkei), to signify membership to a subculture, and as an expression of fashion. During the Edo period (1600–1867) tattoos were prominent across various areas of Japan.

In the 19th century the Chinese fantasy novel Water Margin, which was translated into Japanese and color prints, set the Edo-era people’s imaginations on fire. The flames were fanned by the famous ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s woodblock series

The Popular 108 Heroes of The Water Margin, which had a tremendous impact on tattoos, helping to spark the rise of the flamboyant full-body tattoo, and interlinked the two art forms of ukiyo-e and irezumi. Both ukiyo-e artists and tattoo artists use the title “horishi”. Both require immense talent, dedication, and perseverance. A munewari soushinbori (full-body tattoo with an opening on the chest) takes over 200 hours and costs upwards of five million yen.

The irony is not lost on Hori Hiro that the rest of the world sees wabori for what it is, a truly unique and beau-tiful Japanese art form, “The world

“The world looks at it and thinks it’s art. Most Japanese people don’t see that – they see only a bad image.”


looks at it and thinks it’s art. Most Japanese people don’t see that – they see only a bad image.”

It was all triggered when Japan began to open up more to the West. The Japanese were worried about how they would be perceived, and thought that Westerners would view their tat-toos as barbaric. The Meiji government encouraged people to wear Western clothes, banned samurai topknots, and in 1872, declared tattoos illegal, thus making it synonymous with crimi-nality. On the contrary, however, the West was fascinated by this unique art. Sailors in the port would see rickshaw drivers with beautiful designs and want to get inked in their style. The Japanese called the sailors’ tattoos “sushi” due to their simple and crude design in comparison.

But it wasn’t just the laymen who wanted irezumi. Several British Royals – the second son of Queen Victoria, Prince Alfred; Prince Albert Victor; Prince George; King George V; and

Prince Arthur of Connaught – were all tattooed in Japan. Other players on the world history stage to receive tattoos in Japan include Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination in 1914 sparked World War I, and Nicholas II, the last czar of Russia. It wasn’t until after WWII in 1948 that the ban on tattoos was lifted by the Western occupying forces, but by that time the damage was done, and tattoos were associated with the underbelly of Japan.

“Young tattoo artists do not un-derstand traditional style, they don’t think it’s important - it’s a big problem. I can’t live forever I want to teach this technique to younger generations but it’s difficult,” says Hori Hiro.

Whether or not wabori will ever receive the recognition of ukiyo-e, re-mains to be seen. Would the Japanese in general feel differently about their traditional tattoo art if they learned about its history and understood that they altered their own perception of

tattoo culture out of fear of judgment from the outside world? Perhaps in time they will re-examine this, and not let outdated thinking relegate an important cultural art to obscurity.

facebook.com/HoriHirojapan

和彫り：伝統美の魅力日本伝統の技法である「和彫り」を継承する、数少ない刺青師の一人が彫弘さんだ。この美しい芸術も、誤解や偏見のために継承が危ぶまれている。文と写真：ジェイソン・ハイダー • 翻訳：遠藤建

バチ、バチ、バチ。刺青師たちが打つと呼ぶ、リズミカルな音が静かな室内に響く。木製のバチに取り付けられた針が軽く肉を貫いて、せり上がった皮膚の内部にインクが注入される。客は身じろぎもしない。集中と弛緩の狭間で、瞑想の境地に入っている。施術しているのは、美しい和彫りを専門とする刺青師の彫弘さんだ。繊細で豊かな伝統を持つこの刺青芸術も、日本ではしばしば誤解と偏見の的になってきた。関西に生まれ、30年以上もの実績を持つ彫弘さんは、旧来の徒弟制度で手彫りを学び、現在もその伝統技法を守り続ける数少ない名人のひとりである。

独立独歩の人貧しい家庭で生まれ育った彫弘さんは、17歳で自立した。パチンコや麻雀などで日銭

を稼いでいたが、27歳で天職に出会う。友達が刺青を入れてもらう様子を見学しながら、「これを自分でもやってみたい」と思い、すぐに6代目彫光師匠の門を叩いて弟子入りしたのだ。彫光一門は、江戸時代から続く大阪最古の名門である。このような徒弟制度は、通常5～10年の下積みが必要で、その中でも真の和彫りをマスターできるのはせいぜい10人に1人だという。彫弘さんは夜も昼も技術の習得に没頭し、上達への道を模索しながら、刺青の芸術性の虜になった。生来の才能に加え、和彫りへの専心が師匠に認められた彫弘さんは、兄弟子たちを追い抜いて入門わずか2年後に大阪で開業する。1983年には、その腕前を聞きつけた日本中の極道に施術する人気刺青師になっていた。ところが2008年に状況は激変。暴力団対

策法が改正され、ヤクザに対する取り締まりが厳しくなったのだ。主な顧客基盤だったヤクザたちは刺青を控えるようになり、彫弘さんの仕事も苦境に陥った。

「1983年当時、お客さんの98%は極道でした。あちらの世界で大阪一の彫師という評判をいただきましたが、今ではもう極道に刺青を彫ることはかなり少なくなった」近年の顧客は、伝統的なスタイルで施術される和彫りの芸術性に魅了された一般の人たちが中心だ。今でもバチなどの道具を自分で削って作り、400年以上の歴史を持つ奈良の店から自然素材の墨を取り寄せて混合している。多くのベテラン刺青師と同様、看板は掲げず自宅で施術する。とはいえ口コミだけに頼っているわけではない。時代の波に合わせ、Facebookやインターネットも利用して新しい顧客を獲得している。


刺青師には、時代に適合した作品を作る努力も必要だという。

「用いる技術は変わりません。伝統技法を守ることは極めて重要です。それでもファッション、色、サイズなど、時代に合わせて変えるべきものもあります」和彫りだけでなく、タトゥーガンで下絵を描く西洋のスタイルにも精通している。それでも影付けは必ずバチを使った伝統技法でおこなうのが彫弘さんの流儀だ。手彫りは色彩がより鮮やかで、10～20年くらい色褪せることがないという。小さな作品なら数時間で仕上げ、20,000円程度の料金から相談に応じてくれる。

複雑な刺青の歴史日本の刺青は、複雑な文化的象徴としての歴史を持つ。宗教的な護符として、囚人に刻印する墨刑として、特定の階層への帰属を示すシンボルとして、粋なファッションとして、さまざまな目的で刺青が用いられてきた。刺青文化が日本各地でもっとも隆盛したのは江戸時代のことである。19世紀に出版された中国の伝奇小説『水滸伝』の色刷り版が人々のイマジネーションに火を点けた。浮世絵師、歌川国芳の木版画シリーズ「通俗水滸伝豪傑百八人之一個」が刺青の図案に多大な影響を与え、見事な総身彫りの流行に一役買いながら、浮世絵と刺青という2つの芸術様式の橋渡しを果たしたのである。浮世絵師も刺青師も「彫師」を名乗り、ともに計り知れない才能と専心と根気を必要とする。「胸割り総身彫り」には200時間以上がかかり、施術料は500万円を下らない。和彫りは、真にユニークで美しい日本の芸

術形式だ。それを正当に評価してくれるのが、いつも日本社会の部外者たちなのは皮肉なことである。彫弘さんも例外ではない。「世界は和彫りを見て芸術だと言いますが、日本の人たちはそのように見ていない。悪いイメージだけに目が行くのです」刺青への偏見は、開国の時代にまで遡る。自分たちが世界からどう見えるのかを案じた日本人は、刺青が野蛮な文化だと西洋人に思われることを恐れた。明治政府は洋服の着用を奨励し、髷を禁止し、1872年には刺青を違法とした。刺青と犯罪が結び付けられたのはこの時点からである。しかしながら、逆に西洋は日本の刺青の特異な芸術性に魅了されていた。港に入った西洋の船乗りたちは車夫たちの美しい刺青を見て、同じスタイルの刺青を入れたがった。一方の日本人たちは、船乗りたちの単純で素朴なタトゥーを「寿司」と揶揄していたのである。刺青に魅せられたのは一般人だけではない。英国の王族たちも、こぞって日本で刺青を彫らせている。ヴィクトリア女王の次男であるアルフレッド王子、アルバート・ヴィクター王子、ジョージ王子、英国王ジョージ5世、コノート公アーサー王子は、みな日本で刺青を施した。それだけではない。1914年にサラエボで暗殺されて第1次世界大戦の引き金になったオーストリアのフランツ・フェルディナント公や、最後のロシア皇帝ニコライ2世の身体にも、日本で入れた刺青があった。戦後の1948年になって占領軍がようやく刺青の禁制を解くことになるが、日本の暗部と関連付けられた刺青のイメージを復権させることはできていない。「若い刺青師が伝統技法を理解せず、その重要性をわかってくれないのが大きな問

題です。私の人生にも限りがあるので、この技術をなんとか若い世代に教えていきたい。でも現状は難しいですね」と彫弘さんは言う。和彫りが浮世絵のような認知度を獲得できるかはともかくとして、その伝統はこれからも彫弘さんのような職人たちに受け継がれていくだろう。一般の日本人が歴史を学び、伝統的な刺青に対する認識を変えることはあるのだろうか。かつて日本は外国からの評価を恐れ、刺青に対する自らの美意識を変えてしまった。この真相が理解できたら、いつかは日本人も刺青の伝統を再評価し、継承すべき文化を暗がりに追いやるような時代遅れの愚を改めてくれる日が来るのかもしれない。

「世界は和彫りを見て芸術だと言いますが、日本の人たちはそのように見ていない。悪いイメージだけに目が行くのです」


You may be asking yourself, “What exactly is Pilates?” First of all, it’s pronounced “peh-LAH-teez” and this increas-ingly popular form of exercise was developed in the early 1900s as a means to strengthen core (abdominal, back, and pelvic) muscles for posture, balance, and flexibility. Think yoga mixed with calisthenics using mats and resistance ma-chines. So, who exactly does Pilates? Well, it’s not just for the fitness fiends, dancers, and athletes. Anyone can do it.

If you’re looking to explore your personal health and fit-ness on a deeper level, Pilatesroom AWAZA has exactly what you need. In a convenient location, the studio is modern and clean with state-of-the art equipment imported from the United States. The staff are experienced, friendly, and knowl-edgeable – and they speak English! You can expect a warm welcome from Takiko Hiramatsu, the general manager. She will make sure you are comfortable and ready for your pri-vate session, answering any questions you may have.

Tomoko Kakiuchi is the experienced Pilates instructor who will guide you through your lesson. She previously practiced in Canada, and has been instructing in Japan since 2007.

“When I returned to Japan, there were very few studios offering Pilates. I decided to become an instructor so I could help those seeking a healthier life.”

Your private lesson begins with a posture and alignment assessment with Tomoko. Why? Because good posture and proper alignment are key factors in optimal health of course! Good posture improves muscle function, circulation, and

relieves pain. If you experience back, neck, hip, foot, or leg pain, this will help determine why and how to fix it. You may be surprised to learn that most of us are on the crooked side of the scale and do not have supermodel posture, gasp!

Next is mat work. The lesson flows with ease as you lie down and begin various mat exercises to heat up the body and prepare for 60 minutes of muscle isolation and strength-ening. Moving on to the utterly impressive and slightly intimidating Peak Pilates resistance machine, your instructor will guide you through a series of 20–50 full-body strength training exercises. It’s true what they say; good things come to those who sweat. With continued practice, one can fully transform body and mind through Pilates. So if you’re look-ing to up your fitness routine, relieve those daily aches and

pains, or just want to try something new, give Pilatesroom AWAZA a call. One private lesson will run you ¥8,000 an hour, but the benefits are worth every yen.

Engage Your CoreTake a deep breath and get ready to strengthen, tone, and tighten

at Pilatesroom AWAZA.

Text: Chloé Grayson • Images: Pilatesroom AWAZA

Pilatesroom AWAZA

• Open: 9am–9pm (final lesson at 8pm)• Closed: Wednesdays• Tel: 06-6616-9842• Access: Sennichimae Subway line, Awaza Stn • Facebook: pilatesawaza• Website: pilates-awaza.jimdo.com

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE


Kansai Scene International PartyFor our February party, we took over Boston Clam Shack in Kitahama and enjoyed some delicious food, warm hopsitality and our usual fun and games. A great big thank you to all the staff at Boston Clam Shack for making it a really special night. Check out our Facebook and Meetup pages for details of upcoming parties.

Party Report

Feb 21

14

Springtime, cherry blossoms, and sake – three perfect reasons to

tour Kobe’s Nada district, the world’s top sake-producing region.

Text & Images: Julian Houseman

Nihonshu (sake, or rice wine to some) is making a comeback. After years of playing second fiddle to sho-chu, nihonshu is reclaiming its crown as the king of Japanese beverages. Now more than ever, there is a better range of quality sake available throughout Ja-pan, and one third of all sake produced in the country is brewed right in our backyard in Nada, Kobe.

Kansai has always been one of the hubs of sake production but by the Edo period, Nada had firmly staked its place as the center of it all. Integral to this was the discovery of Nada’s miyamizu – the mineral-rich, hallowed water that flows from Rokko Mountain via six rivers to underground wells. It provides the ideal water for quick, robust fermentation; perfect for sake brewing. As well as the quality of the local water, Nada’s seaside location provided excellent access to ports, al-lowing the breweries to ship their sake quickly and efficiently to Edo (Tokyo) and its flourishing population. Nada’s

reputation was firmly established and the region saw the rise of what would become some of the biggest sake breweries in the country. These days Nada still holds its place as Japan’s largest sake producer, and while there are many other equally interesting sake regions in the country, few are as ac-cessible with such well-serviced cellar doors as Nada.

For a simple day trip, start at Han-shin Uozaki Station. From here it’s a mere seven-minute walk to Hamafu-kutsuru Ginjo Kobo. In terms of production, Hamafukutsuru is actually quite small but the cellar door is well-set-up with lots of sake-related snacks and condiments, including their soft-serve ice cream made with daiginjo sake. Head upstairs for bilingual audio and video explanations of the brewing process as well as peek through the windows into the brewery itself to see some of the action. Free tastings of most of their range (including fruit infused sake such as yuzu and honey-

lemon) are available, but if you’d like to settle in you can sidle up to the bar and try a flight of three of their premium sake for ¥600 (add some nibbles for ¥300). Of note is their Limousin sake liqueur aged in French oak brandy barrels. Rich and sweet, the vanillin aromas from the oak provide an inter-esting contrast to familiar sake flavors.

From there, a 200-meter stroll will get you to Sakura Masamune, the aforementioned discoverer of Nada’s famed miyamizu. There aren’t a lot of places to eat in Nada so this is a good spot to grab a quick meal either in their cafe, or upstairs where you can treat yourself to some serious crab cuisine. There is even a bar, Sanbaiya, open from 5pm if you just want to have a few drinks. Also upstairs is a small museum of old brewing tools and aged bottles. While up there, have a commemorative bottle made with your photo on the label for ¥260 (plus cost of sake).

Feature

Sipping Sake on the Nada Brewery Trail


A further five-minute walk will bring you to Kiku Masamune. Founded in 1659, Kiku Masamune is as rich in history as it is in producing fine sake. The rather cute gardens at the entrance lead into a very detailed museum, again complete with mul-tilingual video explanations. On the second floor is a sealed room contain-ing sake-related paraphernalia, tools, and serving apparatuses that have been declared National Heritage artefacts. There is sake tasting downstairs in the gift shop. Keep an eye out for their kimoto range. Kimoto is the traditional, labour-intensive style of brewing. The method brings out a bolder, full-bodied character which is in line with their goal of producing food-friendly, dry sake.

Save the biggest for last. Hakut-suru is the largest sake brand in the

country. Their TV commercials are well-known and their sake ubiquitous in convenience stores and supermar-kets throughout Japan. But while they do make plenty of cheap (read: consumer-friendly) sake styles, they also produce premium sake of excep-tional quality. A visit to the Hakutsuru brewery provides possibly the most in-depth analysis and explanation of sake brewing history and production. The eerily life-like mannequins scat-tered throughout the museum help to illustrate the different stages of sake production, and the English audio explanations at each station are very thorough. Access to the actual brewery is generally not provided except for the first week of October when they throw the doors open for World Sake Day (October 1st). Again, sake tasting is available as well as samples of many

types of sake-related cosmetics. Rice powder, nuka, is a popular ingredient in many cosmetics such as moisturiz-ers and creams for soft skin. If you ever catch a glimpse of the hands of a sake brewer, you’ll understand why they appear so soft and smooth.

Once you’ve had your fill, it’s just another 10-minute walk back up to Sumiyoshi Station. The local council has kindly scattered bilingual maps of the Nada sake brewery area around the town and at the six stations that cover the area so it’s difficult to get lost. Just remember to leave the car at home!

* All locations open seven days except

Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo – closed

Mondays.

Access: Hanshin Uozaki Station; Hanshin

or JR Sumiyoshi Stn

Mikage Stn

Okamoto Stn

Settsu-motoyama Stn

Rokko Stn

Oji Koen Stn

Nada Stn Rokkomichi Stn Sumiyoshi Stn

Sumiyoshi Stn

Mikage Stn

Kobe KonanMuko-no-sato

Kobe Shu-shin-kanBrewery

SawanotsuruSake Museum

Hakutsuru SakeBrewery Museum Kiku Masamune

Sake Museum

Hamafukutsuru-GinjoBrewery and Shop

Sakura MasamuneSakuraen

Ishiyagawa StnShinzaike StnOishi Stn

Nishinada Stn

Iwaya Stn

Uozaki Stn

Hanshin Main Line

JR Tokaido Line

Hankyu Line

STARTFINISH

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum Kiku Masamune Sake Museum Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Brewery

The Nada Brewery Trail walking map


Food & Drink

Craft Beer CornerMake a pre or post-hanami stop into one of these Namba craft-beer

watering holes showcasing both international craft beer and ji-biru

at its very best.

Text & Images: Jason Haidar

Cafe & Beer arca->archaTucked away in the labyrinth of wind-ing alleyways of Ura-Namba that criss-cross the shotengai near Namba station is arca→archa, meaning “toy box” in latin says owner Mitsuo Taniguchi. Mitsuo has been in the bar game for 10 years as a bartender and proprietor. Opened in December 2012, arca→archa has four taps, one of which is dedi-cated to craft beer that changes weekly, and the bar boasts a nice selection of around 25 bottled craft beers from the US, Japan, and Europe. Peruse the full English menu and choose a tasty craft brew to accompany something from the extensive food menu. Better yet, ask Mitsuo himself for a recommenda-tion, like his take on the pub classic fish-and-chips with his own special homemade tartar sauce, paired with a Black Isle Goldeneye Pale Ale.Open: Tue–Sun 11:30am–12:00am •

Closed: Mon • Price Range: ¥880 on tap;

bottles ¥980–¥1380 • Food Price Range:

¥380–¥3200 • arca-archa.jp • Access:

Nankai Namba Stn, main exit, 5-min walk

beers and bar NOLABeer and bar NOLA, which stands for New Orleans, Louisiana is named after the birthplace of the music that owner and bartender Shuji Terada loves. You’ll be reminded of it by the smooth, jazzy tunes that play in the background, working in tandem with the classy throwback décor. The small second-floor bar, seating around nine at the bar and another four at a private booth in the corner, is a mellow retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Osaka streets. NOLA has two taps serving the UK’s Bass beer and the popular German draft beer Bitburger for ¥850 and ¥900 a pint respectively. Where NOLA truly shines is with its nearly 100 bottles of mostly international craft beers, including many hard-to-find treats such as North Coast Brewing’s Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout for ¥950.Open: Mon–Sat 7:00pm–1:00am • Closed:

Sun • Admission ¥300 seating charge •

Price Range: ¥850 draft beers; bottles

¥750–¥3600 • Food Price Range: All food

¥300 • facebook.com/pages/Beersbar-

NOLA/770871926320498 • Access:

Nankai Namba Stn, Main Exit, 2-min walk

Smoke House Ape Smoke House Ape – smoked food, but no smoking allowed. Situated across from the OCAT building in Namba, Smoke House Ape (an off-shoot of Yellow Ape Craft in Kitahama) burst onto the craft beer scene last month, and is quickly making a name for itself in the rapidly-growing Kansai ji-biru movement. Thanks in part to its colossal wall of 20 taps, the crown jewel of this modern, chic bar that offers a constantly changing selection of mostly Japanese craft beers. Don’t hesitate to ask friendly bar manager Kai Takahiro for a recommendation to pair with their teppanyaki or smoked food menu. Try the clams with spinach covered in an almond sauce, with a baguette to soak it all up. Pair it with the Rauch Fujizakura Kogen beer to wash it all down.Open: Tue–Fri 4:00pm–12:30am; Sat, Sun &

Holidays 12:00pm–12:30am • Closed: Mon

• Price Range: ¥580–¥2000 • Sizes: Glass

(260ml), US pint (420ml), Mass (1000ml) •

Food Price Range: ¥380–¥1000 • ameblo.

jp/smoke-house-ape • Access: JR Namba

Stn


Your tattoo is very beautiful / cool.あなたのタトゥーはとてもきれい / かっこいい。

Anata no tatu wa totemo kirei / kakkoi.

I like the design and colors used in your tattoo.

そのタトゥーのデザインといろがきにいりました。

Sono tatu no dezain to iro ga kiniirimashita.

Where did you get your tattoo done? どこでそのタトゥーをいれましたか？ Doko de sono tatu o iremashitaka?

Did getting your tattoo hurt? タトゥーをいれるのはいたいですか？ Tatu o ireru no wa itai desuka?

How long did it take to finish your tattoo?

タトゥーをいれるのにどのぐらいかかりましたか？

Tatu o ireru no ni dono gurai kakarimashi-taka?

How much did it cost? いれるのにいくらかかりましたか？ Ireru no ni ikura kakarimashitaka?

When did you get your first tattoo?はじめてタトゥーをいれたのはいつですか？

Hajimete tatu o ireta no wa itsudesuka?

Can you go into onsens? おんせんにはいれますか？ Onsen ni hairemasuka?

Tattoos in Japan have a negative stereotype.

にほんでタトゥーはわるいイメージがあります。

Nihon de tatu wa warui imeeji ga arimasu.

What is your opinion about tattoos? タトゥーについてどうおもいますか？ Tatu ni tsuite dou omoimasuka?

How much does your tattoo artist charge?

あなたのほりしはいくらかかりますか？ Anata no horishi wa ikura kakarimasuka?

Can I make an appointment to get a tattoo?

タトゥーをいれるよやくができますか？ Tatu o ireru yoyaku ga dekimasuka?

How long have you been tattooing? どのぐらいほりしをしていますか？ Dono gurai horishi o shiteimasuka?

Where is the most painful spot on your body to get a tattoo?

タトゥーをいれるのにいちばんいたいぶぶんはどこですか？

Tatu o irerunoni ichiban itai bubun wa doko desuka?

I’d like to get a tattoo of a (design) on my (part of body).

（part of body）に（design）のタトゥーをいれたいです。

(part of body) ni (design) no tatu o iretai desu.

Useful Expressions

Language

Nice Ink! The art of tattooing goes back thousands of years and has been cultivated by many cultures worldwide for a whole host of different purposes; marking criminals and outcasts; show-ing spiritual devotion; highlighting rites of passage; express-ing wealth, beauty, and fertility; the list goes on. The symbolism and impact of tattoos varies between places and cultures, but surely no culture has a more strained relationship with the concept of tattooing than the Japanese. A longstanding taboo in Japan, tattooing has been associ-ated with the yakuza and the criminal underworld. Yet the undeniable beauty of traditional Japanese tattoo art is admired globally.

The Japanese word irezumi means “insertion of ink” and can refer to tattoos using tebori, the traditional Japanese hand method (as featured on page 8), or a Western method with a tattoo gun. Wabori means “traditional Japanese tattoo” and another word used for traditional Japanese tattoo designs is horimono.The word “tatu” or yobori is used by Japanese to mean non-Japanese styles of tattooing, and these days, “fashion tattoos” are becoming more of a thing in Japan (see page 6). So, whether you want to book an appointment with a tattoo artist here, or simply pay a compliment, KS has you covered with the phrases below.


Food & Drink

FoodspottingVegetarian and vegan restaurants can be hard to

come by in Kansai, but Osaka boasts these three

that are bound to delight your taste buds and

have you radiating health and vitality.

Text & Images: KS

Paprika Shokudou At Paprika, all food is organic and ve-gan, which means no chemicals, MSG, milk, sugar, meat, egg, or genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). Despite this, there is a plethora of delicious, fresh dishes to choose from. Start with the Paprika Shokudou “vegetable island” with dipping sauce; a huge plate of fresh vegetables on ice, paired with different flavored dipping sauces including miso and umeboshi (pickled plum). Follow up with deep-fried oysters made from mushrooms and tofu, and finish with the baked organic banana and cinnamon cake. Well, that’s just one suggestion as there are many options. A big customer favorite is the donburi (rice bowl), especially the soy-meat yakiniku donburi. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to order a bottle of their organic wine to enjoy in this beautiful, laid-back space. The service is friendly and efficient, the staff speak some English, and the menu is also available in English. Open: Lunch 11:30am–2:00pm; Dinner

5:30pm–11:00pm • Price Range:

¥800–¥2500 (service charge for

dinner) • Access: Yotsubashi Stn, Exit

2 • facebook.com/papurika.vegan/

app_813913961985014

Shama Namaste! This small and cosy, vegan-friendly Indian restaurant in Kitahorie serves tasty Indian cuisine without meat, fish, eggs, onion, garlic, nira, or leek. Some of the food is lacto-vege-tarian (including dairy products) and some is vegan – either way it is clearly marked on the menu. Drinks are mostly alcohol and caffeine free. The extensive menu (available in English) features dishes such as soy-meat tikka, eggplant keema curry with minced gluten meat, and tikka with soy ham. The scrumptious curry-noodle dinner set with tofu, carrots, and mushrooms is deliciously heart warming, and comes with a soup, salad, and vege-momo starter, and an after-meal chai tea with a chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream. Lunch sets are great deals, most at less than ¥1,000. To add to the feel-good factor, aside from the healthy eating, this restaurant has been helping to run an orphanage and school in the Indian state of Bihar. Open: Lunch 11am–3pm; Dinner 5pm–

10pm • Closed: Monday Dinner • Price

Range: ¥750–¥2000 • Access: Yotsubashi

Subway Stn, Exit 6 • indoshama.jimdo.com

Green Earth Green Earth is one of Osaka’s oldest vegan restaurants. It’s almost all vegan with a couple of exceptions for lacto-vegetarians who eat milk and cheese. For example, you can request regular cheese on the pizza, otherwise you’ll get soy or cashew cheese. There are daily changing lunch specials ranging from pasta, pizza, salad, sandwiches, veggie burgers, and of course desserts (try the mouthwatering grain-crust apple pie). Most lunch sets are ¥1,000 or below. The food feels very healthy, natural, and of good quality, and is ultra tasty. Their mapodoufu is argu-ably better than the “real” thing (with minced-meat sauce). Also worth a try is the all-vegan BBQ mock-meat dish. The only downfall of this cute, reasonably-priced, and friendly restau-rant, is that (except Fridays) they’re not open later. Reservations can be made on Sundays and holidays for a small group party at a cost of about ¥2,500 per person.Open: Mon–Sat 11:30am–5pm (L.O.

4:30pm), Fri 6:30pm–11:30pm • Closed:

Sundays/National Holidays • Price Range:

¥750–¥2800 • Access: Midosuji Subway

Line, Hommachi Station, Exit 15 • osaka-

vegetarian-ge.com/english.htm

HonmachiKita-HorieShinmachi

22 Kansai Scene Listings: What’s on around Kansai

Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)Alejandro González Iñárritu, Comedy Drama, 119 mins, Apr 10

Starring: Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton

Michael Keaton put in such an amazing performance for Birdman that even he thought he was going to win an Oscar. The blink-and-miss-it moment of him putting his speech back in his jacket pocket after losing, is an awesomely awkward moment that is keeping with the spirit of this gripping movie. Keaton plays Riggan, an actor who once wowed audiences with his portrayal of the titular Birdman, an impressive superhero who made Riggan’s fortune, but left him typecast for the rest of his career. Desperate for the limelight to shine on him again, he puts together a stage play, in which he has cast himself as the star.

Halfway between a dark comedy and a family drama, Riggan wrestles with his own ego whilst navigating the complicated relationships in his life. Zach Galifiana-kis reins it in a little as the tense producer, Edward Norton plays a jerk to perfec-tion, and Emma Stone is both relatable and lovable as Riggan’s troubled daughter/personal assistant.

The film may not have as much action as the trailer may lead you to believe, but it is a fantastic ride that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The highly emotive themes in the movie may have some movie buffs drawing comparisons to other fading stars who desperately try to eke out a little fame in their autumnal years. Perhaps the most obvious parallel would be with Adam West, who much like Riggan, enjoyed a short burst of fame after resigning himself to being typecast, allowing Batman to be his life companion. The fact that Keaton has also donned the cowl really brings home the point.

© 2014 Extinct Productions Pty Limited

Dinosaur IslandMatt Drummond, Adventure, 90 mins, Apr 4 • Starring: Darius Williams, Kate Rasmussen, Joe BistaveousThe CGI may be as shaky as the child acting, but this movie is a fun and innocent romp for the kids. Youngsters find themselves on a mysterious island infested with…I’ll let you figure it out.

© 2014 Gravier Productions, Inc.

Magic in the Moonlight Woody Allen, Comedy, 97 mins, Apr 11Starring: Emma Stone, Colin Firth, Simon McBurneyLove or hate him, Woody works like a dog, pumping out movies on an annual basis. They don’t always turn out to be home runs, but this psychic debunking romance is fun and charming, although a little too sweet for me to stomach.

Furious 7James Wan, Action, 140 mins, Apr 17Starring: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Kurt RussellThe Rock reinvigorated the franchise and now Kurt Russell and Jason Statham are making it even better. The team is now being hunted and they must do anything…and I really do mean anything, to survive.

© 2013 WHIPLASH, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

WhiplashDamien Chazelle, Drama, 107 mins, Apr 17Starring: J.K. Simmons, Miles Teller, Melissa BenoistHow far would you go to pursue your passions? Simmons is the teacher-turned-torturer that tries to squeeze the very best out of his students, no matter the cost. Extremely enthralling, the movie will grab your full attention with both hands, and keep a firm grip throughout.

KSPick

Don’t forget you can find a list of local cinemas (and what’s playing) online at:

kansaiscene.com/cinemas

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Apr 10

Film Previews


Cinema Listings (selected theaters)

Osaka

Toho Cinemas UmedaTel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Into the Woods, The Theory of Everything, The Imitation Game, Chef, American Sniper, Fifty Shades of Grey• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 17: Whiplash, Furious 7• From Apr 24: The Search• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Umeda Burg7Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com • Discounts: Weds (women) 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything, American Sniper, Predestination, Jupiter Ascending, Fifty Shades of Grey, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mortdecai• From Apr 17: Furious 7• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Cine Libre UmedaTel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,000Now Showing: The Vatican Museums 3D, Rudderless, Still Life, Dior & I (FR), Kahaani (HIN), Back On Track (GER), La Cour de Babel (FR)• From Apr 4: Café de Flore (FR)• From Apr 11: The Two Faces of January, Narco Cultura, Kite• From Apr 18: Inherent Vice• From Apr 25: The Last Five Years, Mommy (FR), Hearts and Minds, Pride

Theatre UmedaTel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_umeda • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st of the month: ¥1,000Now showing: Diplomatie (FR), Aimer boire et chanter (FR), Ferrari Ki Sawaari (HIN)• From Apr 4: La Ritournelle (FR)• From Apr 11: All Is By My Side

Osaka Station City CinemaTel: 06-6346-3215 • osakastationcitycinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: Into the Woods, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Jupiter Ascending, Backstreet Boys: Show Em What You’re Made Of, Annabelle, American Sniper• From Apr 17: Furious 7, The Good Lie• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Toho Cinemas NambaTel: 06-6633-1040 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Jupiter Ascending, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Into the Woods, The Imitation Game, Song One, Chef, The Theory of Everything, American Sniper, Coming Home (CHI)• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 17: The Good Lie, Furious 7, Whiplash• From Apr 24: The Search• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Furious 7

Namba Parks CinemaTel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Into the Woods, Annabelle, American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Foxcatcher, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles• From Apr 11: Music in the Moonlight• From Apr 17: Furious 7• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Cinem@rtTel: 06-6282-0815 • cinemart.co.jp/theater/shinsaibashi • Discounts: Mon (men) Weds (women), 1st and 25th of the month: ¥1,000Now Showing: Movie Masters: Stanley Kubrick• From Apr 11: Road• From Apr 25: Mommy (FR)

Kyoto

Movix KyotoTel: 07-5254-3215 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st and 20th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300

Now showing: The Theory of Everything, Jupiter Ascending, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Into the Woods, The Imitation Game, Annabelle, American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Foxcatcher, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Big Hero 6• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 11: Magic in the Moonlight• From Apr 17: Furious 7• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Kyoto CinemaTel: 07-5353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp • Discounts: Weds (women & men), 1st of the month: ¥1,100Now showing: Aimer boire et chanter (FR), The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Her, Back on Track (GER)• From Apr 4: Boyhood, Face of Love, La Ritournelle (FR)• From Apr 11: Café de Flore (FR), Kahaani (HIN)• From Apr 25: Mommy (FR), Papusza (POL), Midnight in Paris

Toho Cinemas NijoTel: 07-5813-2410 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything, Into the Woods, The Imitation Game, Song One, Coming Home (CHI), American Sniper, Chef• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 17: The Good Lie, Furious 7, Whiplash• From Apr 24: The Search• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Kyoto Minami KaikanTel: 075-661-3993 • kyoto-minamikaikan.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100, Students ¥1,500Now showing: See website

Hyogo

OS Cinema Mint KobeTel: 07-8291-5330 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Jupiter Ascending, Into the Woods, The Theory of Everything, The Imitation Game, Chef, American Sniper, Big Hero 6• From Apr 17: Furious 7• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Kobe Kokusai ShochikuTel: 07-8230-3580 • smt-cinema.com • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: American Sniper, Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesUpcoming: Focus

OS Cinema Kobe HarborlandTel: 07-8360-3788 • jollios.net • Discounts: Tues (women), 1st and 16th of the month: ¥1,100; every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Jupiter Ascending, Into the Woods, American Sniper, The Fault in Our Stars, Fifty Shades of Grey• From Apr 17: Furious 7• From Apr 25: Cinderella

Cine Libre KobeTel: 07-8334-2126 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_kobe • Discounts: Weds (women, men), 1st and 15th of the month: ¥1,100Now showing: Aimer boire et chanter (FR), Coming Home (CHI), Begin Again, The Vatican Museums: 3D, Diplomatie (FR), Dior & I (FR), Still Life, Back on Track (GER)• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 11: Magic in the Moonlight, The Two Faces of January• From Apr 17: Whiplash• From Apr 24: The Search

Jupiter Ascending

Toho Cinemas Nishinomiya OSTel: 050-6868-5051 • tohotheater.jp • Discounts: Weds (women), 1st & 14th of the month: ¥1,100, every day after 8pm: ¥1,300Now showing: Song One, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, The Theory of Everything, Into the Woods, The Imitation Game, American Sniper, Chef, Jupiter Ascending• From Apr 10: Birdman• From Apr 17: The Good Lie, Furious 7, Whiplash• From Apr 25: Cinderella

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


Events

Syoryoe – Memorial Service for Prince Shotoku 聖霊会舞楽大法要Shitennoji Temple, Osaka

Apr 22

Here’s a chance to see classical Japanese performance art live. This event commemorates a great, ancient figure, Prince Shotoku, who had this im-portant temple built in the sixth century. The classical art of bugaku dance will be performed by a skilled bugaku troupe. See young children in butterfly costumes and masked dancers play on the stage decorated with ornaments shaped like red spider lilies. The lion’s dance is a must-see.

Time: 12:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway

Stn, 5-min walk • shitennoji.or.jp

Mint Cherry Blossom Viewing桜の通り抜けThe Japan Mint, Osaka Branch

Apr 9–15

The Osaka branch of the Japan Mint is a classic spot for sakura no torinuke (cherry blossom viewing) in Kansai in early spring. Every year in April, for one week only, mint in Temma opens its cherry-blossom-viewing path, and thou-sands of people flock there to admire the beautiful flowers. It’s a stunning walk through this 560-meter, cherry-tree tun-nel with gorgeous, pink blooming blossoms. There about 350 cherry trees from 130 varieties, mostly the Yaezakura – the double-flowered cherry.

Time: 10am–9pm (weekends 9am–9pm) • Admission: Free •

Access: Subway or Keihan Line, Temmabashi Stn, 15-min walk •

mint.go.jp/enjoy-eng/sakura-eng/eng-viewing-intro.html

Kawakami Festival (Sanyare Matsuri) 川上祭り（サンヤレ祭り）Hegasaki-Banba Riding Ground, Shiga

Apr 18

Two Shinto shrines, Hioki-jinja and Tsuno-jinja host a large-scale religious festival praying for universal peace and a bountiful harvest. Shrine processions are made along with the “sanyare” festival song; children in a happi ki-mono coat, and men in formal kimonos proudly march a miniature-shrine and decorative banners to the main venue of Hegasaki-banba. Watch as the men draw the 18-meter-long banners around the grounds while children destroy the colorfully decorated short banners. Don’t miss the Japanese horseback archery held before the banner ceremony.

Time: 1pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Omi-Imazu stn bus to

Shobohonbu-mae • takashima-kanko.jp/spot/imazu/462.html

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The 9th Paper Lamp Exhibiton 第９回ゆあさ行灯アート展Yuasa-Cho, Wakayama

Apr 29–May 3

Step back in time and see the Japan of yesterday. Beautifully preserved in the Edo period style, the peaceful town of Yuasa-cho will come to life with the gentle light of hundreds of exotic paper lamps. More than 500 exhibits of lamps made by artists from all over the county will be on show as visitors explore the dimly-lit, Edo-period streets and classical-style houses. Traditional Japanese music will be performed live in the evenings.Time: 6:30pm–9pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Yuasa Stn, 10-

min walk • lepo.fool.jp/green/andon/index.html

April

Yellow Magic Orchestra Musical Instruments Exhibition

YMO楽器展 1978–2015Umeda Loft, Osaka Until Apr 12A complete set of the musical equipment used at the YMO’s live performances abroad in 1979 will be on show, and a presentation on the instruments will be held. There will also be display of records, jackets, and other interesting events.Time: 10:30am–9pm • Admission: ¥500 • Access: Hankyu Line Umeda Stn; 7-min walk • ymo-synth.com

Tatsuno Cherry Blossom Festival

龍野さくら祭Tatsuno Park and Surroundings, Hyogo Apr 1–19One of the many beautiful places to celebrate the arrival of spring and have a picnic under the cherry blossoms. On the 5th, there will be a parade of samurai warriors, a tea ceremony, and a presentation on Princess Tatsuno.Time: 10am • Admission: Free • Access: JR Hon-Tatsuno Stn, 25-min walk • tatsuno-kanko.com

Naniwa Puppet Theatre Festival

なにわ人形芝居フェスティバルIssinji Theatre Kura and Surroundings, Osaka Apr 5Various Japanese puppet theater companies will be on stage to give their special performances at Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines around the neighborhood. There will be entertaining plays, food stalls, and more on the streets during the event.Time: 10am–3:30pm • Admission: Various charges • Access: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway Stn, 5-min walk • terateratera.sakuraweb.com/ningyoufes

Chinka Sai – Ritual of Plague Supression

水谷神社　鎮花祭Mizuya-Jinja in Kasuga-Taisha, Nara Apr 5Since 1288, this even has been a yearly ritual. There will be a kagura performance – a sacred Shinto dance – at 10am. Also kyogen – a Noh farce – will take place at 1pm.

Time: 10am • Admission: Free • Access: JR or Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn bus to Kasuga-taisha Honden • kasugataisha.or.jp/calendar/spring04.html#1

Spring Festival

興隆春風祭Kobe Nankin-Machi, Hyogo Apr 5, 12 & 19Originally started to celebrate Kobe Ariport Terminal’s first anniversary, this year’s event will be its ninth. Enjoy Chinese lion dance, a kung fu demonstration and authentic Chinese cuisine.Time: 1pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR or Hanshin Line, Motomachi Stn, 5-min walk • nankinmachi.or.jp

Benishidare Concert – Live Music Under The Cherry Blossoms

紅しだれコンサートHeian Jingu, Kyoto Apr 9–12Heian Shrine is renowned for its 300 weeping cherry trees with low-hanging branches. Meander amongst the cherry trees and enjoy the various genres of live music that will be performed throughout the day.Time: 6:15pm–9pm • Admission: ¥1,700 (¥2,000 at door) • Access: Higashiyama Subway Stn, 10-min walk • kyoto-np.co.jp/kp/kyo_np/info/moyoosi/2015benishidare

Yagyu Cherry Blossom Festival

柳生さくら祭りYagyu Zinya Site, Nara Apr 11 & 12Head to Yagyu Zinya samurai house for this seasonal festival to make the most of the blooming cherry blossoms. A variety of traditional martial arts and other entertainment is planned for the day.Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR or Kintetsu Line, Nara Stn, 50-min bus ride to Yagyuhan Karoyashiki • yagyukanko.com

Nagahama Hikiyama Float Festival

長浜曳山まつりNagahama Hachimangu Shrine and Surroundings, Shiga Apr 13–16Elaborately decorated with historic tapestries and detailed carvings, the floats are often described as “a moving museum.” Watch

Apr 29–May 3

May 3 & 4

Event Listings

Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival高槻ジャズストリートJR Takatsuki Station and Surroundings, Osaka

May 3 & 4

This is the perfect event for jazz music fans. Described as the one of greatest free music shows in Japan, The Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival attracts over 100,000 visitors every year. Since 1999 when it was first held, this two-day event has been run by volunteers, and this year more than 700 bands will be performing at around 50 venues; mainly around JR Takatsuki Stn and Hankyu Takatsukishi Stn. There will also be special “Paradise” buses on which passengers can enjoy live performances. Local musicians and famous artists will turn Takatsuki into a music haven for two days.Time: 10:30am • Admission: Free • Access: JR Takatsuki Stn;

Hankyu Takatsukishi Stn • 0726.info/


the float parade and enjoy the kabuki performances.Time: depends on day (see website) • Admission: Free • Access: JR Nagahama Stn, 5-min walk • nagahama-hikiyama.or.jp

La Festa Primavera 2015

ラ　フェスタプリマベラ 2015Nagoya–Kyoto Apr 17–20An exciting showcase of classic cars. Porsches, MGs, and other models will begin a 1,100km tour starting at Nagoya on the 17th and finishing at Kyoto City Hall on the 20th. See the website for further information.Admission: Free • lafesta-primavera.com/2015/

Chinka Sai, Izumo Elegant Flower Dance

鎮花祭～出雲風流花踊り～Izumo Daijingu Shrine, Kyoto Apr 18Come and see this unique religious dance performed by local men in their gala attire decorated with flowers. It is one of the highlights at the centuries-old Chinka Sai festival originally held to ward off the plague.Time: 10am • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kameoka Stn, bus to Izumojinja-mae • izumo-d.org/top.htm

Ohashiri Matsuri – Miniature Shrine Parade

お走り祭りYabu-Jinja, Hyogo Apr 18 & 19A miniature shrine is paraded 20 kilometers the Itsuki-jinja. On the 18th, watch the kawatogyo where the bearers wade across River Oya with water rising up to their chins.Time: 12:30pm (kawatogyo) • Admission: Free • Access: JR Yoka Stn, bus to Yabumyojin • yabu-jinja.jp/xoops

The 68th Osaka City Regatta

第６8回大阪シティレガッタThe Sakura-Bashi Bridge on River Okawa Apr 18 & 19Every April, competition rowers, sun lovers, and socialites gather on the banks of the River Okawa for two days of racing. The competitions will take place between the Sakura-bashi bridge and the Genpachi-bashi bridge.Time: 9am–5pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Loop Line, Sakuranomiya Stn • city.osaka.lg.jp/keizaisenryaku/page/0000299078.html

Biwako Jazz Festival 2015

びわこJAZZフェスティバルin東近江2015Yokaichi Station and Surroundings, Shiga Apr 18 & 19 More than 180 local groups and bands from around the country will give energetic performances at 40 venues scattered around this peaceful and scenic town.Time: 11am • Admission: Free • Access: Omi Line, Yokaichi Stn • biwako-jazzfes.com

Janjaka Odori – Snake Dance

ジャンジャカ踊りDojo-ji and Surroundings, Wakayama Apr 27Legend has it that a girl, Kiyohime, turned into a serpent and chased after her beloved, a monk known as Anchin. Come and watch the 25-meter, paper-mache snake running up the stairs in this exciting reenactment. Time: 1pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Dojoji Stn, 7-min walk • dojoji.com

Flower Festa Kobe

花のフェスタこうべKobe Sports Park, Hyogo Apr 29This is a large, annual gardening fair with a pot plant auction, a workshop on gardening, a bingo game, and many other attractions. Here, there is something for everyone.Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: Sogoundokoen Subway Stn • kobe-park.or.jp/hanamidori/event/flowerfesta/

Showa Era Day

どっぷり昭和町Momogaike Park and Surroundings, Osaka Apr 29This is an annual celebration featuring Showa era culture (1926–1989). Various live music performances, stalls, tea ceremonies, a parade, children games, a wrestling show, and more will be scheduled on this day.Time: 10am–5pm • Admission: Most events free • Access: Showacho Subway Stn • showacho.jp

Oimatsu Kobijutsu Matsuri – Antique Fair

老松古美術祭Oimatsu-Cho, Osaka Apr 25 & 26

This biannual market held in Oimatsu-cho, an antique shop district, will see forty retailers displaying their collections outside and inside their shops. Visitors can bring their own antique items for a free appraisal.Time: 10am–6pm • Admission: Free • Access: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi Stn, 5-min walk • oimatsu-cho.gr.jp

Kusatsu Historical Festival

草津宿場まつりKusatsu City Hall and Surroundings, Shiga Apr 26This is an annual carnival all about the historic city of Kusatu. There will be a grand parade of people from the samurai period ranging from the aristocracy to peasants.Time: 10am–7:30pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Kusatsu Stn, 10-min walk • 932matsuri.com

Koinobori (Carp Streamer) Festa 1000

こいのぼりFesta 1000Akutagawa Sakurazutumi Park, Osaka Apr 27–May 5Join the Boys’ Festival celebration as 1,000 carp streamers fly

overhead in the park. Live music performances, balloon art, puppet shows and more are scheduled for the 29th.Time: 10am–4pm • Admission: Free • Access: JR Takatsuki Stn, 15-min walk • city.takatsuki.osaka.jp/kakuka/toshi/gesuikik/gyomuannai/kasen/koinoborifes/

Shigaraki Market

第9回しがらき作家市Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, Shiga May 2–5 More than 100 artists will display and sell their ceramic works in this beautiful hillside park.Time: 9am–5pm • Admission: Free • Access: Shigaraki Kogen Line, Shigaraki Stn, bus to Togei no Mori-mae • sccp.jp

Find more listings online:www.kansaiscene.com/listings

Apr 18

Kansai Scene International Party: Pinball Special 関西シーンインターナショナルパーティーSilver Ball PLanet, BIGSTEP Shinsaibashi 3F, Osaka

Freeplay Pinball, retro tunes and 500yen drinks await at our fun Pinball Special. Never played pin-ball? Now’s your chance! There’ll be 15 machines operating on a freeplay system so that everyone can try their hand and we’ll also be running an

optional competition for everyone that fancies them-selves a bit of a pinball wizard.

Apr 18 (Sat) • Time: 7:30–10:30pm • Admission: ¥2,000

(incl. 2 drinks, freeplay pinball) • Access: Shinsaibashi Sta •

meetup.com/Kansai-Scene • facebook.com/kansaiscene


Events

Asian All-Stars Comedy Show! Apr 5Finally, the moment we've all been waiting for...Osaka's first ever Asian All-Star Improv Comedy Show!Comedians from Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Osaka are coming together this April to bring you an exceptionally international evening of comedy! Be sure to show up early and grab a snack, a drink and a seat for the greatest show of your life!!Venue: Rooftop Bar OO • Time: Doors at 7, Show at 7:30 • Price: ¥1,200 w/1d

Kansai Canadian Spring Picnic Apr 5 & 12The "KCA Spring Picnic 2015" is just around the corner. In fact, it is just around two corners. This year we are going to have TWO picnics! Sunday, April 5th and Sunday, April 12th. You can come to either one or both if you like. Please invite your family and friends, and join us for a relaxing party (or parties) under the beautiful cherry blossoms. Time: 11:30am–4pm • Place: Gosho Park, Kyoto Imperial Palace Grounds (for a map of where we will be please go to our website) • Potluck: Bring some food to share with others (in case of drizzle we go ahead; in the case of heavy rain we cancel)

HAIR: Kamihikouki Magazine’s Issue 3 Launch Party Apr 12Kamihikouki Magazine’s third issue, HAIR, is styled and ready to show itself off. Join us for our growing ’zine’s third launch party! The event will feature live experimental music, audiovisual entertainment, improv comedy, fiction and poetry readings, and an art and drink raffle. Tickets are ¥1,000 at the door and include

entry, a copy of the magazine, and a raffle ticket. Full bar on site.Venue: Pine Brooklyn • Time: 7pm–11pm

Kansai Scene International Party: Pinball Special Apr 18Freeplay Pinball, retro tunes and 500yen drinks await at our fun Pinball Special. Never played pinball? Now’s your chance! There’ll be 15 machines operating on a freeplay system so that everyone can try their hand and we’ll also be running an optional competition for everyone that fancies themselves a bit of a pinball wizard.Time: 7:30–10:30pm • Admission: ¥2,000 (incl. 2 drinks, freeplay pinball) • Access: Shinsaibashi Sta • meetup.com/Kansai-Scene • facebook.com/kansaiscene

Retro Antiques Market Apr 19Antiques, collectibles, tin toys, and wind-up watches from yesteryear will be on sale at this popular market. Entry is free after 11am, but for a chance to get the best stuff, you'll need to go at 9:30am and pay a ¥1,000 entry fee.Venue: Indoors at Namba Jinja on Midosuji • Time: 9:30am–16:00pm • Contact: Toys Cafe 06-6213-2929 • eonet.ne.jp/~robot/toymarket.html

St. Michael’s International School Bazaar Apr 25 Join our popular School Bazaar at St. Michael’s International School on Saturday April 25th for a fun-filled day with lots of international food, games, stalls & rummage sales, music, dance, and a raffle. Raffle tickets on sale until 1pm on the day. Everyone welcome!St. Michael’s International School • 10am–3pm • Access: Motomachi Stn

Utsubo Park Easter Egg Hunt 2015 Apr 26Come and join a traditional kids’ Easter egg hunt. This event includes a grand Easter egg hunt, an Easter bag with Easter treats from the U.S.A, games and prizes, and a chance to take photos with the Easter Bunny. All included for ¥2,000 per child. Children must be registered by April 19th. Numbers are limited. Register your child’s name and age on Facebook or to Melissa at: [email protected]: Utsubo Park, Osaka • Time: 9:30am–2pm

Qbrick 10th AnniversaryCraft beer bar Qbrick will this month celebrate its 10th anniversary! Many special events will be held throughout the month (check their Facebook page for details) but the anniversary party will be on Saturday April 18th from 3pm. Look out for a limited edition T-shirt and in the second half of the month, ask to try the “Nakayoshi Biru” – the “friendship beer” being brewed by Swan Lake brewery and sold in only two other craft beer bars in Japan. Open: 5pm–12:00am • Closed: Some Mondays (see website) • worldbeerqbrick.com • Access: Midosuji Subway Line or Keihan Line,Yodoyabashi Stn, 7-min walk

Silver Ball Planet Pinball TournamentEveryone is welcome to take part in this monthly pinball tournament at Big Step's fantastic pinball arcade Silver Ball Planet. All ages and levels welcome. Go head to head in teams and battle for pinball glory. Machines used for each tournament change each month. See Facebook for details.Apr 25 • Time: 4pm • Admission: Just pay to play (¥100 per game) • Where: BIG STEP 3F, Amemura • Access: Midosuji or Nagahori Subway Line, Shinsaibashi Stn, Exit 7 (3-min walk); Yotsubashi Stn, Exit 5 (3-min walk) • big-step.co.jp

Seminar

Kansai Scene Business Matters: Starting a Business in Japan Apr 11So you’ve got a great idea for a new business and are looking to take the plunge. Now what? This event will feature presentations covering every aspect of starting up, from the legal paperwork required, tax and finance considerations, marketing advice and an insight into actually running a business in Japan from successful entrepreneurs. Presentations will be followed by a panel discussion and networking.Venue: C7 Coworking, Umeda • Time: 7:30pm–10pm • ¥1,000 w/1d • facebook.com/groups/ksbusinessmatters

The Global Youth Conference: Youth in Action: Education, Society & GovernmentThe YMCA will host its first 3-5 day global youth conference geared towards training both Japanese and foreign young people to get involved in education, social and environmental issues within their local communities and to build their leadership skills. Activities include: learning about Japanese culture & language, workshops and keynote speeches on education, society & government, cultural night celebrations, a model UN style “City Summit Conference” and optional tours of Osaka. Conducted in English.When: 18th June - 23rd JuneWhere: Mt Rokko YMCA Global Learning Center, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, JapanEmail: [email protected]:(06) 6441-5088Address: Osaka YMCA Global Department, Level 6, 1-5-6, Tosabori, Nishi ku, Osaka City, Japan

Community Events

Submit your event to Kansai SceneHaving an exhibition? Staging a gig? Organizing a business seminar? Think KS should know about it? Well, you can now submit your own event listings to Kansai Scene. Absolutely free. All listings will be posted online, and the best selection listed here. Priority will be given to free, or not-for-profit events.

kansaiscene.com/submit-event-kansai-scene


Grand Front Osaka Knowledge Capital

The World of Tim BurtonAfter hosting record-breaking crowds around the world, ‘The World of Tim Burton’ has finally made its way to Osaka. The exhibit features an array of artwork by Tim Burton, the director with a globally recognized trademark style whose beloved characters changed Hollywood since the success of his 1988 classic Beetlejuice. The collection of about 500 mixed-media pieces is divided by film so you can zip right along the white checkered floors to your favorite film’s sketches, scale models, and props, or you can follow Burton’s career from the beginning with an exclusive look at rare short films and paintings, models, and other works from unrealized side projects. For those who can’t resist quirky goods, the event gift shop is selling original merchandise like t-shirts, bags, books, and more, along with film memorabilia. This is a do-not-miss spectacle for fans of Burton’s work and a playful delight for all ages.

Until Apr 19 • Exclusive traveling exhibit of about 500 pieces

of artwork, film, illustrations, and more by director Tim Burton •

Open: 10am–7pm (until 9pm on Fri & Sat) • Admission: ¥1,800 •

Access: JR Osaka or Umeda Stn, 5-min walk • tim-burton.jp

15 Venues Throughout Kyoto

KYOTOGRAPHIEAt this much-awaited international photography festival, Kyoto’s historic temples, townhouses, and contemporary spaces serve as venues for 14 award-winning photographers. The event, which drew a crowd of 40,000 last year, aims to spread and cultivate an interest in photography and Kyoto’s growing arts culture through exhibition events and special programming. Artists can partake in exclusive workshops (like Portfolio Review by industry professionals), masterclasses in partnership with the International Center of Photography (ICP) New York, and artist talks and lectures. If music is more to your taste, Kyotographie sponsors four free jazz performances with famous crossover jazz artist Shuya Okino. And if you worry the kiddies won’t be up for the trip, the KYOTOGRAPHIE Kids Program offers educational and fun photography workshops and a special Kid's Passport with activities for each exhibition.

Apr 18–May 10 • International photography festival in various Kyoto

locations offering special events, exclusive artist workshops, and

a kids program • Hours vary • Admission: ¥500/¥700; Kyotographie

Passport from ¥1,500/¥2,500 • Event is throughout Kyoto •

kyotographie.jp/en

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Art Listings

Wakayama

Really Realistic RealityThe Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama • Until May 10Showcasing five former Wakayama residents and present-day Kansai artists' vivid interpretations of ‘reality’ in their daily lives. Works include brightly colored paintings, large sculptures, photographs, intricate engravings, and even an installation made out of sponges and other everyday items.Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥510 • Access: JR Wakayama Stn bus to Kenchomae bus stop • momaw.jp

Kyoto

Kan-Hikari Art Expo 2015Kodai-ji & Mitera Sennyu-ji Until May 6The expo is showcasing 30 artists from Japan and overseas and their works together in historic Japanese temples. Artists of various genres are participating, such as Fumitaka Tomita, a woodwork artist famous for his beautiful wooden furniture. They are sharing their interpretations of traditional Japanese art and its modern incarnations. Open: 9am–5pm • Admission: ¥600 • Access: Keihan Gion Shijo Stn, Exit 6, 15-min walk • kanhikari.com

Koichi Enomoto: “Sixth Sense Japan”Haps • Until May 11Characterized by his dizzying, busy graffiti style and use of eye-catching rich colors, Enomoto’s latest works on the theme “Sixth Sense Japan” will be on display. Open: 11am–5pm • Closed: Sun & Mon • Admission: Free • Access: Keihan Kiyomizu Gojo Stn • haps-kyoto.com

Japanese-Style Art: Kyoto in the HeartShokado Garden Art Museum Until May 6Final segments of the three-part showcase of 60 works (mostly paintings) by local artists. Selections capture the artists’ various impressions of Kyoto’s roots in Japanese cultural history, in addition to distinctive scenery and cultural aspects from across the region.Open: 9am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥400 • Access: Keihan Yahata Stn, bus to Ooshiba-

Matubanadomae • yawata-bunka.jp/syokado

Drawing the Metropolis: Kyoto Life in the Edo PeriodThe Museum of Kyoto Until Apr 12Take a look back to the the life of Kyoto’s most important politicians and figures during the Edo period, as painted on 16th-century large folding screens in a panoramic style akin to that of a giant Where’s Waldo book. Other important cultural pieces on display include literature, paintings, and other antiques that complete a picture of the era.Open: 10am–6pm (10am–7:30pm on Fri) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,200 • Access: Karasuma Subway Line, Karasuma-Oike Stn, Exit 5 • bunpaku.or.jp

Ryusuke Ito: “All Things Considered”Kodama Gallery Until Apr 25This large installation exhibition may remind you of a Hollywood studio of mini-movie sets. To illustrate his concept of “Realistic Virtuality,” Ito films the seemingly random sets before you, then simultaneously cuts and montages the video, casting it above on a large projector screen in real time. The disconnect allows you to test your eyes – is what you are looking at what you are being shown?Open: 11am–7pm • Closed: Sun, Mon, national holidays • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Jujo Station, 3-min walk • kodamagallery.com

Osaka

Yukio Awano – Jungle and Geometrystudio J • Until Apr 18Gallery exhibit and live performance by artist and musician Yukio Awano. Awano's latest illustrations use shading techniques and abstract shapes and natural motifs, like the veins of a leaf or the crystallization of minerals, as patterns to make up real or imaginary life forms and scenes. In the same layering fashion, he will play flute against a mix of classical music, hip-hop, and original composition samples during his live performance.Open: 1pm–7pm • Closed: Sun, Mon, Tues • Admission: Free • Access: Subway Sennichimae or Nagahori Tsuromi-ryokuchi Line to Nishinagahori, exit 1 • studio-j.ciao.jp

CHIE & TsunoshiNii Fine Arts • Apr 3–19A two-artist gallery exhibit of unique and strange character illustrations – Chie’s signature “Foppish Girl,” a frenetic girl who hides with a paper bag on her head, and Tsunoshi’s “Occult Series” featuring Humpty Dumpty-meets-Tim Burton style characters living in their own surreal world. Open: 11am–7pm (11am–5pm on Sun) • Closed: Mon & Wed • Admission: Free • Kitahama Stn or Yodoyabashi Stn • niifinearts.com

Shiga

Lisa Larson: Scandinavian Animal CeramicsThe Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park • Until Jun 7This is the first Japanese exhibition of about 230 works by famous Swedish ceramics artist Lisa Larson, whose nekoneko cat and lion designs can be seen throughout

Japan on anything from mugs and plates to bags, seat covers, and handkerchiefs. Both characters and more will be on display in their 3D ceramic form.Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: Free • Shigaraki Kogen Line to Shigaraki Stn, Kogen Bus to Togei-no-Mori • sccp.jp

Welcome to Edo! Children Depicted in Ukiyo-e PrintsThe Museum of Modern Art, Shiga Apr 18–Jun 7More than the common depictions of famous actors, women, and scenery, ukiyo-e prints of happy children were top-sellers during 17th to 19th centuries in Japan. The six-part exhibition shows approximately 600 children-centered prints divided by themes such as ‘Playtime’ and ‘School Life.’Open 9:30am–5pm (admission until 4:30pm) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,000 • Access: JR Kyoto Seta Stn • shiga-kinbi.jp

Until Jun 29

Takarazuka City Tezuka Osamu Manga Museum

Message to Adolf, Seventy Years After WWIIWhile best known for the creation of Astro Boy and Black Jack, the "god of manga” Osamu Tezuka also penned an epic manga on the theme of World War II, which he lived through in Takarazuka City. Unlike his popular, lighthearted works, the series drama follows three men named Adolf and a Japanese reporter whose lives become intertwined and more desperate as the war heightens. The exhibition highlights the contrast between Osamu’s style and the heavy contents of the

narrative, much of which he pulled from his own experi-ences and fear of death during the time. For anyone interested in the Japanese experience of the war, this exhibit is an introduction to one of the most original accounts.

Until Jun 29 • Exhibition of Astro

Boy creator's Osamu Tezuka’s ground-breaking epic manga

series Message to Adolf • Open: 9:30am–5pm • Closed: Wed

• Admission: ¥700 • Access: Hankyu Takarazuka Stn, 8-min

walk • tezukaosamu.net/en/museum

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Apr/May

Rock & Pop

Pink Floyd Trips

Pink Floyd TripsThe ultimate Pink Floyd tribute bandUwaya Gekijyo Live House, Kobe Apr 4 • Rock • 8pm • ¥4,500 • Tel: Tony 090-6608-8686

BridearJapanese five-piece girl metal bandMojo, Kyoto Apr 12 • Metal • 6:30pm • ¥3,400/¥3,900 • Tel: 07-5254-7707Akaso, Osaka Apr 17 • Metal • 6:30pm • ¥3,400/¥3,900 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Jeff KollmanUS guitarist and member of John Paynes AsiaLive Spot Rag, Kyoto Apr 15 •Rock •7:30pm • ¥3,000/¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5255-7273

Adrian SherwoodEnglish dub genre producerConpass, Osaka Apr 16 • Dub • 7pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • Tel: 06-6243-1666

The Turtles JapanJapanese rock five-piece Zepp, Osaka Apr 17 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,800 • Tel: 06-7732-8888

Kuroki NagisaJapanese singer-songwriter, previously a trio now solo vocalistJanus, Osaka Apr 19 • Indie Pop • 5pm • ¥3,800 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Paul McCartneyPopular English musician, singer-songwriter and ex-BeatleKyocera Dome, Osaka Apr 21 • Pop-rock • 6:30pm • ¥14,000/¥18,000 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Adrian Vandenberg’s MoonKingsEx-Whitesnake guitarist Adrian Vandenberg and new bandClub Quattro, Osaka Apr 22 • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-JohnFemale pop singer famous for starring in GreaseOsaka Festival Hall Apr 23 • Pop • 7pm • ¥9,000/¥10,000 • Tel: 06-6341-4506

Hugues Vincent & Mizumono

Hugues VincentFrench cellistUrbanGuild, Kyoto Apr 24 • Cello • 7:30pm • ¥2,000/¥2,300 • Tel: 07-5212-1125

Jinsei TsujiJapanese popular musician, composer and directorTaku Taku, Kyoto

Apr 25 • Pop-rock • 6pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

aikoJapanese female pop singer-songwriterZepp, Osaka Apr 25–26 • Pop • 6pm • ¥5,800 • Tel: 03-5452-0232

Sex MachinegunsJapanese rock trioNamba Rockets, Osaka Apr 26 • Rock • 6pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • Tel: 06-6649-3919

Christopher Cross

Christopher CrossGrammy winning US singer-songwriterBillboard Live OSAKA, Osaka April 26–27 • AOR • 26th 4:30pm & 7:30pm; 27th 6:30pm & 9:30pm • ¥9,800/¥8,300 • Tel: 06-6342-7722

LiSAJapanese pop singer-songwriter Risa OribeNamba Hatch, Osaka

Live Music

Petteri SariolaBorn in 1984, Finnish guitarist Petteri Sariola first picked up the six string when he was just seven years old, and to date, has released three solo studio albums. His first was in 2007, which was followed by the 2009 Phases album, and the most recent 2013 Through the Eyes of Others.Coming from a musical family, Sariola was the youngest winner, at 21, of the Nokia Young Talent Scholarship award in 2005. Playing in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka, this tour will be the guitarist’s eighth visit to Japan.

Described as having a ‘percussive approach’ to his playing style, the found-er of Larrivee Guitars Jean Larrivee says of Sariola, “If I could play guitar like you (Petteri Sariola) I wouldn’t build guitars.”Acoustic guitarist from Finland • Taku Taku, Kyoto • May 13 • Acoustic Guitar • 7pm

• ¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Live Music Listings

May 13KSPick


Jeff KollmanKnown for his work with classic rock acts Glenn Hughes, Mogg/Way, and Asia, Jeff Kollman has also worked with the likes of Joe Lynn Turner, Lyle Lovett, Linda McCartney, Billy Sheehan (David Lee Roth) and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers).

Kollman first took up the guitar as a 12-year-old and during the eighties and nineties worked in various bands as a session player. In 2012, he released his first solo album in more than 12 years, Silence in the Corridor, and last year put out the acoustic release Hills of Granada. Jeff Kollman is the regular guitarist with the John Payne incarna-tion of the progressive rock band Asia but is also treading the boards success-fully with his own work. Not a gig for rock and guitar fans to miss!

US guitarist and member of John Payne’s

Asia • Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Apr 15 • Rock

• 7:30pm • ¥3,000/¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5255-

7273

Kuroki NagisaKuroki Nagisa was originally a three-piece, indie band formed in 2010 named after the band’s vocalist. The trio released the single “Atashi no Shinzou Ageru”, which at first had a limited release (Kyushu) before being made available across Japan earning them the accolade of “most potential artist of 2013” from iTunes. The band disband-ed but, having used “Kuroki Nagisa” as the moniker, it was no problem for her to continue solo without any name changes.

Last year Kuroki Nagisa finally recorded her debut long-play album Hyouhon Bako and her voice has been described as “so clear and powerful that it conquers all.”

Japanese singer formerly a trio • Janus,

Osaka • Apr 19 • Indie pop • 5pm • ¥3,800

• Tel: 06-6357-4400

April 29–30 • Pop • 29th 6pm; 30th 7pm • ¥5,700/¥6,200 • Tel: 06-6341-3525

Sound HorizonJapanese art-rock band lead by RevoOrix Theatre, Osaka Apr 29–30 • Rock • 29th 5pm; 30th 6:30pm • ¥9,800/¥12,000 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

LindbergJapanese pop rock band formed 1989Namba Hatch, Osaka May 1 • Pop-rock • 5:30pm • ¥6,800/¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

MorrieJapanese singer songwriter Motoyuki Otsuka, ex-Dead End frontmanMuse, Osaka

May 1 • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,500/¥7,000 • Tel: 06-6245-5389

Dir En GreyJapanese rock bandNamba Hatch, Osaka May 2–3 • Rock • 6pm • ¥6,480 • Tel: 06-6357-4400Orix Theatre, Osaka May 7 • Rock • 7pm • ¥6,480 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

AccessJapanese pop duo vocal and keyboard Daisuke Asakura and Hiroyuki TakamiNamba Hatch, Osaka May 4 • Pop • 5pm • ¥7,500 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Kera Kera

KerakeraJapanese indie-pop trioBig Cat, Osaka May 4 • Indie Pop • 5:15pm • ¥4,000/¥15,000 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Ishida ShokichiJapanese singer, guitarist and producerJanus, Osaka

May 8 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6214-7255

PushimEthnic Korean Japanese reggae artist Paku PushinMuse, Kyoto May 8 • Reggae • 7:30pm •¥5,940 • Tel: 07-5223-0389

Orange RangeJapanese hip-hop rock bandZepp, Osaka May 8–9 • Hip-hop • 7pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

KISS?/Black Star/Boz Jovi/Judas PrincessJapanese classic rock tribute bandsClub Alive, Osaka May 9 • Rock • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥2,800 • Tel: 06-6213-8585

Kitty, Daisy & LewisA three piece from London influenced by R&B, swing, jump blues, and rock ‘n’ roll, this family unit has been perform-ing from an early age and have opened for acts such as Coldplay, Stereophon-ics, Jools Holland, and Billy Bragg. It’s comprised of Kitty Durham (vocals, drums, harmonica, ukulele, banjo, trombone, and guitar), Daisy Durham (vocals, drums, piano, accordion, and xylophone), and Lewis Durham (vocals, guitar, piano, banjo, lap steel, and drums).

Their debut recording was released in 2007 and their latest is Kitty, Daisy & Lewis the Third earlier this year. The album was produced by Mick Jones of The Clash and described by the British paper The Telegraph as “a hot, sweet pancake stack of danceable tracks, driz-zled with drama and swung by a terrific horn section.”

British swing, jump blues trio • Shangri-La,

Osaka • Apr 23 • Swing • 7:30pm • ¥6,000

• Tel: 06-6535-5569

Apr 15 Apr 23 Apr 19


Adrian Vandenbergs’s Moonkings @ Club Quattro

Kazuki KatoJapanese singer and actor best known as Kamen RiderMuse, Kyoto May 9 • Pop • 6pm • ¥5,500/¥7,000 • Tel: 07-5223-0389

The Haunted

The HauntedSwedish Metal supergroup formed 1996Club Quattro, Osaka May 12 • Metal • 7pm • ¥6,500 • Tel: 06-6311-8111

Petteri SariolaAcoustic guitarist from FinlandTaku Taku, Kyoto May 13 • Acoustic guitar • 7pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Guitar Panda

Guitar PandaHe’s Japanese, he plays guitar, and he dresses as a panda!Taku Taku, Kyoto May 14 • Rock • 7pm • ¥2,400/¥2,800 • Tel: 07-5351-1321

Boom Boom SatellitesJapanese alternative rock duo

Club Quattro, Osaka May 14 • Rock • 7pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

FLOWJapanese five-piece rock bandBig Cat, Osaka May 15 • Rock • 7pm • ¥4,900/¥5,400 • Tel: 06-6357-4400

Jazz & Blues

Kyo Nishimura and Kozo Wakamiya TrioJapanese jazz vocalist and piano trioBlue Note, Kyoto Apr 15 • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥5,000 • Tel: 07-5223-0398

Kaori SawadaJazz pop piano trioMr. Kelly’s, Osaka Apr 20 • Jazz • 7:30pm/9:00pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • Tel: 06-6342-5821

Kitty, Daisy & LewisBritish swing jump blues rock n rollShangri-La, Osaka Apr 23 • Jump Blues • 7:30pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 06-6535-5569

Fried PrideJapanese male-female guitar-vocal jazz pop duoLive Spot Rag, Kyoto May 6 • Jazz • 7pm • ¥4,520/¥5,650 • Tel: 07-5255-7273

R&B

May J.Singer May HashimotoOrix Theatre, Osaka Apr 19 • R&B Pop • 6pm • ¥6,000 • Tel: 05-7020-0888

Find more listings online: kansaiscene.com/listings

Interview

Adrian Vandenberg’s MoonKingsRock fans will know Adrian Vandenberg for his days in the hugely successful and popular Whitesnake. As well as a musician he is also an accomplished artist, and after letting music take a back seat in recent years he is back with a new band that really rocks! KS spoke with Adrian Vandenberg about his new musical project prior to an upcoming visit to Japan.

Kansai Scene: Have any Whitesnake numbers slipped into the MoonKings’ live set?Adrian Vandenberg: Yes indeed, we do have a couple of Whitesnake songs in our set. As most fans know, I’ve been with the band for 13 years (the longest after David), and I wrote two albums with Coverdale. I’m very proud of what we achieved. Coverdale’s and my musical influences have been very similar so it’s only logical to add some WS into our set. We have a lot of parallels musically so it feels and sounds very natural.

The MoonKings’ debut album is now a year old. Is there new material that fans might hear live in Japan or a follow-up album on the way to look forward to?No new music in the set yet – we like to surprise our fans with the next album. Since we also play some ‘Vandenberg’ and ‘Manic Eden’ material we have a rich set musically and historically!

You’re also known as an accomplished artist and the music seemed to have been on a bit of a back burner before the MoonKings. Is the new band a long-term project that you are focusing all of your energies on?Yes indeed, I’ve been focusing solely on MoonKings in the last two years and I definitely see the band as a long term project, no matter what it takes. I could have taken a much easier way than starting a completely new band from scratch, but I firmly believe in MoonKings and it’s easy to see that the rock fans do as well, judging by the incredible response at our shows. I’m really putting my heart and soul into this and there’s absolutely nothing that I enjoy as much as making music and being on stage with these guys!

Ex-Whitesnake guitarist Adrian Vandenberg and MoonKings

• Club Quattro, Osaka • Apr 22 • Rock • 7pm • ¥7,500

• Tel: 06-6311-8111

Apr 22


Club Listings

April

1 (Wed)

OnziemeEscape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

3 (Fri)

CircusCircus Show Case (Techno/House) • DJs: Petar Dundov, So • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeInfinity (Electro/Progressive House) • DJs: Takeru John Otoguro, Kick Off, Ypy, Witch & Nas + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop CafeSeditional Jazz (House/Jazz) • Acts: Jimbo, Kohji Masuda, Ryo, Tatsuro • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

4 (Sat)

CircusDigitalvision (Progressive) • DJs: Shu + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeBlock.fm presents Block. Party (Electro/House/Drum’n’Bass) • DJs: Taku Takahashi + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop CafeSummit Special (Techo/House) • Acts: TR-101 (DJ Pete & Sleeparchive), Doiike, Nakatani, Jibb, Jokei • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D, Foreigners: ¥2,000/1D) •

Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

5 (Sun)

CircusSeiho (Techno/House) • DJs: Seiho, Aspara, Keita Kawakami, Paperkraft, Nishimuraa, Analski, Kiyoshi Matsumae • Open: 6pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeBubble x 2Bloc feat. Capsule - “Wave Runner” Release Live - After Party (Techno/Electro) • DJs: Nakata Yasutaka, Bubble x 2Bloc DJs • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

7 (Tue)

OnziemeRed (R&B/Hip hop) • DJs: Hiyoco, Ys • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

8 (Wed)

OnziemeEscape Special (Hip hop) • Live: Moomin • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,000/1D; Ladies Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.co

9 (Thu)

OnziemeLeaps Radio Stream by Medium-film (House/Techno/Electro) • DJs: Sekitova, Swiftsure, Yusuke Hisada, Kazuya Tanaka + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

10 (Fri)

JouleEDM Star presents Kill The Noise Japan Tour (EDM) • DJs: Kill The Noise, Taku-Hero + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥4,000 (ADV: ¥3,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.jp

ClubMaishima Sports Island – Sora no HirobaThe spring edition of the biannual dance music festival, Mai Asia Music Festival (formerly known as Nagisa Music Festival), will take place on April 29 at Maishima Sports Island. Mai Asia Music Festival features a lot of underground Japanese live bands and great local DJs, so it’s perfect for those who want to expand their musical horizons. Alongside the music, you can also enjoy the unique shops, international food stalls, and the great view of the Osaka bay. Discounted group tickets are available for groups of five or more, so if you are planning to come with your family and Friends, don’t forget to purchase tickets in advance. Check out the website for more details and the full lineup.

Apr 29 (Wed/National Holiday)

Mai Asia Music Festival (Dance Music/Live) • Acts: Tofubeats,

Damage, Okadada, Akaimu, Skyfall, Gonno, 1945 aka Kuranaka

+ more • Open: 10am–8pm • Admission: ¥5,000 (ADV: ¥3,500) •

Where: Maishima • my-fes.com

Apr 29


OnziemeAddicted 4th Anniversary Special (Electro/Techno/House) • DJs: Takeshi Hosomi, Kyoko, Tetsushi Hiroyama, Takayuki, Unbalance + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,400 (ADV: ¥2,000) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

11 (Sat)

CircusFactory #7 – Whan! “August’Rip Out of February” Release Party (Techno) • Live: Whan!, Albino Sound, Soybeans • DJs: Aida, Aluca, Matsuo Akihide • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

Grand CafeMask (House/Electro) • DJs: Q’Hey, Van Cliffe, Elli-Rose, Shine, Kunio Torikai, Dimitri + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥2,500/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D (Foreigners ¥1,000/1D) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6213-0031 • grandcafeosaka.com

OnziemeRouge (Electro/Progressive House) • DJs: Alisa Ueno, Marvy, Yayoi Daimon, Joji Matsumoto + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop CafeBlack Market (Techo/House) • Acts: Ave, Ikebe, Pixie • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

12 (Sun)

OnziemeBeat Addiction (Dance) • Live: Plug in Loud • DJs: Masaaki Yaguchi + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

15 (Wed)


16 (Thu)

OnziemeRoom (House/Techno/Electro) • DJs: Shinya, Onochan, Jun, Toji, Young • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

17 (Fri)

CircusTetralogisticS feat Kink (Techno) • DJs: Kink, Kunimitsu, Yasuhisa • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeJuicy Sp (R&B/Black music) • Acts: Swing, Kira, Weep, A-z, Hisakid, Ka-z + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Socore FactoryPetter B Japan Tour (Techno/House) • Live: Analog4 • DJs: Petter B, Lobo, Fly, Saki • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,500 ) • Where: Horie • Tel: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

18 (Sat)

CircusClub Snoozer (Rock/Dance) • DJs: Soichiro Tanaka, Hisashi the Kid • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeRoad to Electrox Beach Osaka x Eleven Lights (Electro/House) • DJs: Taku-Hero, Alphashoto, Maurice + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop CafePhc (Techo/House) • Acts: Kuniyuki, Halptribe + more • Open: 11pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,000/1D, Foreigners: ¥1,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

19 (Sun)

OnziemeOtokai x Next Osk presents Boot Up After Party (Techno/House/Electro) • DJs: Hi-C, George, B=Ball, Nore, Yuuna + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: Gentlemen ¥1,500; Ladies ¥1,000 •

Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

21 (Tue)

OnziemeThe Future (Dance/Hip hop) • DJs: Yeazzy, Nana • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

22 (Wed)


24 (Fri)

CircusWander feat Tini (Techno) • Live: Mikami • DJs: Tini, Mitsuyasu, Iccii • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeGrand Groove (R&B/House) • DJs: Hasebe, Urata, Masakaz, Ree-age, Tora + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Socore FactoryMagic time (Techno/House) • DJs: Haeo, Ground, Bear, Fumi, Hanky, Yasu • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥1,500/1D • Where: Horie • Tel: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

25 (Sat)

CircusReset! Japan Tour (Techno) • DJs: Reset!, Jaxx Da Fishworks, High Velocity, Fujimon, SilverFox, Yusuke Nakamura, Monna Lisa • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,300 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeHyper Society supported by Urban Research (Electro/House) • DJs: Tomoyuki Tanaka, Van Cliffe, Elli Rose, Taku-Hero, Saito + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Troop CafeLong Slow Distance (House) • Acts: House, Og, Fazz, Non-c, H’de, Ikumori • Open: 10pm • Admission:

¥3,000/1D (ADV: ¥2,500/1D) • Where: Kobe • Tel: 07-8321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

26 (Sun)

OnziemeOrange Night (House/Techno/Electro) • DJs: Marboo + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

28 (Tue)

CircusJoy Orbison Japan Tour (Dance) • DJs: Joy Orbison, Will Bankhead + more • Open: 10pm • Admission: ¥2,500 • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

OnziemeThe Greendayz 15th G.W Special (Hip Hop/Reggae) • Acts: Mighty Crown, Shingo Nishinari, Chehon, Fuku, Black Eyes, Sperior, Blk Barb • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥2,400) • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Socore FactoryTresur (Techno/House) • DJs: Kentaro Iwaki, Keita Magara, Kohei • Open: 11pm • Admission: TBA • Where: Horie • Tel: 06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

29 (Wed / Nat Hol)

OnziemeEscape (Hip hop) • DJs: Martin, Ax, Naka-g, Jacky, Merit • Open: 9pm • Admission: Gentlemen: ¥2,000/1D, Ladies: Free • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

30 (Thu)

OnziemeAntenna (House/Techno/Electro) • DJs: Cazbow, Sak, Shinjyu + more • Open: 9pm • Admission: ¥2,000/1D • Where: Shinsaibashi • Tel: 06-6243-0089 • onzi-eme.com

Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds40

AccommodationFor Rent

APARTMENTS IN KOBE WITH NO KEY MONEY. 1 room apartments from 40,000 yen per month. 2 and 3 bedroom apartments also available from JR Kobe to Rokko Michi. Email [email protected], call 090 6777 9864 for a viewing or visit www.elliottventures.com or find us on Facebook. Contact: kevin elliott <[email protected]> Website: www.elliottventures.com [1613-335-2015-04-06]

SAWANOCHO AREA, 1DK SEMI FURNISHED 55000YEN/MONTH . 4min walk to Sawanocho Nankai Koya train line, or 8min walk to Abiko JR Hanwa station. 15min by train to Namba or Tennoji. Semi furnished for 55000yen/month. Available on 4 and 5th floors. No elevator building. No Key money, No Guarantors needed, No Agency fees, 6month minimum contract. Alex 09037030314 Contact: <[email protected]> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com [2303-90-

2015-04-20]

1LDK TOYOSATO, HIGASHI YODOGAWAKU 70000YEN/MONTH. 6min. walk from Daido Toyosato subway station, Imazato subway line. 2nd floor apartment in 5 story building (no elevator). Just remodeled. 70000yen/month unfurnished, 6month min. contract length, 1month refund deposit, No key money, No guarantors, Utilities additional, No agency fee. Alex 09037030314 Contact: <[email protected]> Website: www.abhousingosaka.com [2526-90-

2015-04-02]

KOBE - HANKYU MIKAGE / OKAMOTO. 61 sqm, semi-furnished, no key money, no agency fee, 2 months refundable deposit, Y98,000/month. This is a sunny, spacious flat in a natural location near stream and mountain trail, 20 mins walk from Hankyu Mikage, bit more to JR Sumiyoshi. Regular buses too. [email protected] 090-9286-1216 Website: www.ffeilden.com/ [2567-436-2015-04-15]

Shared House

GREEN APARTMENT; RENOVATED SHARED HOUSE OSAKA AREA. 10 residents shared house, fully renovated from 40 yrs old fish sausage factory. convenient, 5mins walk from Bentencho st; 4 sts to Umeda by JR Kanjosen, 3 sts to Honmachi by subway Chuo line. monthly, rent ¥38k~46k and expenses ¥10k. at contract, admin fee ¥30k and deposit one month rent are asked. Contact: <[email protected]> Website: www.facebook.com/GreenApartmentOsaka [2524-1577-

2015-03-28]

JobsEducation

FT ENGLISH NATIVE TEACHER WANTED ASAP. compensation: 250000 yen/M + Transportation We are located in Osaka Uehonmachi, an area renowned for its academic excellence, and as such, our students are highly motivated. Prospective teachers must also be highly motivated and flexible. A cheerful smile and friendly greeting for students and guests are al Contact: marikanesan <[email protected]> Website: www.universe-gakuin.com [2560-5074-2015-04-15]

KANSAI CORPORATE CLASSES. CES seeks English/other languages corporate instructors/interpreters for (2-7 teaching hours a day) Hyogo, Shiga, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama and Wakayama areas for 1-12mth courses starting immediately. 3,500-4,000 yen per hour. For more info, please forward C/V with availability to [email protected] Contact: Manager <[email protected]> [2193-77-

2015-07-31]

NATIVE PART-TIME ENGLISH TEACHER FOR KIDS. We are looking for P/T native English teacher for kids from 9:30-12:30 on Saturday (1-3 times a month). The lesson includes 1hr outside exercise. Location: 10mins from Kuzuha sta. on Keihan line Pay: 1800yen/hr (Transport exp. is paid max. of 1000yen) Please send any inquiry to [email protected] Contact: Chie chie <[email protected]> [2561-4911-2015-04-15]

SEEKING FOREIGN ENGLISH CONVERSATION INSTRUCTOR AS. Privately owned, friendly school seeks an outgoing, qualified native Eng. instructor for teaching kids & adults. Sat and Sun: 2pm-8:30pm ¥1500-¥2500/hr. We are 5mins from Shinobugaoka sta. on the Gakkentoshi line. Transport exp. are reimbursed. If interested send resume w/photo to [email protected] Contact: openarms <[email protected]> Website: www.openarmsenglish.com [2520-1631-2015-03-29]

NATIVE P/T ENGLISH TEACHERS AT ESTABLISHED COLLEGE. Positions are open for English teachers: 90-minute classes on Wednesday morning, Monday or Friday afternoon (Presentation/ Writing/ Conversation). Requirement: University degree, teaching experience, Certificate for TESL or equiv. Send CV to Kansai Gaigo College (KCBL), Contact: [email protected] Contact: Kansai Gaigo <[email protected]> Website: www.tg-group.ac.jp/kansaigaigo/kg/ [2511-4064-2015-

03-28]

スペイン語の無料ワンレッスンをお楽しみください。. スペイン語の無料ワンレッスンをお楽しみください。スペイン・マラガ大学卒、講師歴20年のベテラン女性講師と楽しくスペイン語を学びましょう。簡単で革新的なレッスンです。全てのレベル対象。無料体験レッスンお申込みは、[email protected] / 0742-47-9132まで。 Contact: kokosan <[email protected]> Website: www.linguaintensa.com/faq_jap.html [2424-2146-2015-04-01]

ENGLISH TEACHER FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN. Female native English teacher wanted for Kindergarten Looking after babies and children aged 0-6 Japanese language skill a plus Hours are Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 2.30pm Contract runs from April until end of January Pay is 2000 yen / hour Please call 072 626 2191 or send a resume [email protected]. Contact: Chitose <[email protected]> [2532-2493-2015-04-03]

WANTED - FULL-TIME NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHERS. Candidates must have native English competency and a 4 year university degree. Teaching experience is not necessary but should be professional and serious about teaching. Starting salary is 250,000yen/month. No classes on Sun, Mon, and national holidays. Please apply via e-mail. Interviews will be in Kobe. Contact: TIME ENGLISH SCHOOL <[email protected]> Website: www.timeheart.co.jp [2508-

4052-2015-04-02]

TEACHING JOB. We are now hiring afternoon and Saturday program part time native English teachers for our Kyoto and Ashiya location. We teach math, robotics, science, and art in English. We have SAT prep courses for high school students. ¥2,500~3,000 / hr. plus transportation Both locations are very close to the station. Contact: YSE Education Center <[email protected]> Website: www.yse-edu.net [2555-2095-2015-04-12]

TEACHER WANTED. School in Sugimotocho on the Hanwa line looking for teacher to teach all ages. Different schedules available M-F morning until night. 2000 yen an hour. Qualificaitons: Native speaker, Experience teaching kids English Contact Brian - [email protected] Contact: aaronoflion <[email protected]> [2569-1900-2015-04-15]

PART-TIME TEACHER FOR KIDS. Now hiring native teachers for school in south Osaka. Saturdays 8:30 to 4:30 starting at 2800 to 3500 depends on experience. Contact : Tomoya Okubo of ISES JAPAN. Email : [email protected] Contact: ISES Tomo <[email protected]> [2587-2186-2015-04-22]

PART-TIME ENGLISH TEACHER IN OSAKA (START ASAP). Start Date:

ASAP End Date: September 2015 (possibility of renewal) Location: JR Kashima Day: Wednesday Length: 2 hours (6:00PM-8:00PM) Rate: 5,000/hour Travel Cost: reimbursed Lesson Type: Corporate business English Send your resume to: [email protected] Contact: Language House <[email protected]> Website: languagehouse.squarespace.com/ [2576-5311-2015-

04-27]

OSAKA SCHOOL LOOKING FOR KIDS' TEACHER!. We are looking for a native speaker to teach together with a Japanese teacher. Our Kids' Class is 9:30AM-2:30PM, all transportation costs included with pay on payday. If you are interersted, please send your resume or CV to [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you! Contact: Lauren <[email protected]> Website: www.vacation-es.jp/ [2469-446-2015-04-19]

NATIVE ENGLISH • BILINGUAL SPEAKERS WANTED FOR KID'S. Kids Duo is located in Sumiyoshi, Kobe. We have preschool and after school for children from age 3-12. We are looking for Native English・Bilingual speakers who are cheerful, friendly and have experience teaching children. Mon~Fri (2days/wk.~), 8:00~20:30 (6hrs/day), 1500yen/hrs (Training term 1200yen) Contact: Kids Duo <[email protected]> Website: navi.kidsduo.com/tabid/61/pdid/4017/Default.aspx [2522-4126-2015-04-02]

ALT NEED IN OSAKA AND NARA. Looking for ALT teachers for SUITA, KISHIWADA and GOSE-SHI,NARA. Native level English with teaching skills required. Pay:1400 YEN~1750 YEN / per hour including transportation fee Hours: 08:30-16:30 Mon to Friday, One year contract Experience is needed Contact: Brain Power, Cem Mail: [email protected] Contact: brain power 1 <[email protected]> Website: www.brain.power.co.jp [2538-4227-2015-04-05]

NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER WANTED. Working days/hours negotiable. Requirements: Native English speaker ONLY. B.A. degree and proper working visa required. Previous experience advantageous. Location: right in front of Hankyu Mikage station south exit. Please send resume with photo to [email protected] tel:078-822-3406 http://www.aie.co.jp Contact: aiemikagecampus <[email protected]> Website: www.aie.co.jp [2544-1620-2015-04-13]

PART-TIME ENGKISH TEACHERS FOR KIDS. We are looking for P/T English teachers with the requrement as below. Location: Yao city, Osaka. 1min away from JR SHIKI station Time: 16:00 to 19:00

Kansai Scene Classifieds > kansaiscene.com/classifieds42

Mon to Fri. Payment:2000 YEN plus transportation fee Teaching Kids are between 3 to 12 years old. Please send CV and cover letter to "enderra514@hotma Contact: yuka <[email protected]> [2547-

4964-2015-04-13]

TEACHERS WANTED. School in Ashiya/Okamoto is looking for FT/PT English, French & Korean teachers ASAP. University diploma preferable. Must be native speaker with valid visa. Payment: ¥2700-¥3000 per hour + transportation. Please email resume & photo, visa type & date valid till to: [email protected] Contact: Ashiya Plus <[email protected]> Website: www.comlanguageschool.com [2568-252-2015-04-15]

PART TIME TEACHERS WANTED IN KYOTO AND ASHIYA. We are now hiring afternoon and Saturday program part time teachers for our Kyoto and Ashiya location. We teach all subjecs in English. Math, robotics, science, and art. We have SAT prep courses for high school students. ¥2,500~3,000 / hr. plus transportation Please send CV/picture to: [email protected] Contact: YSE International School <[email protected]> Website: www.yse-edu.net [2553-

5023-2015-04-23]

General

【日本語⇔英語】翻訳／通訳コミュニケーションオペレーター募集. PC上で文字、音声を通じ、国内の店舗、海外からの利用者との間における日本語«»英語のコミュニケーションをサポートしていただけるオペレーターを募集しています。 •勤務場所: 大阪市北区梅田 • 時給1,200円以上 •能力給あり • 研修時給1,000円 •実働50時間まで • 時間/曜日: 平日、土日祝を含む 9~22時で週20時間以上 •交通費:1日1,000円まで •応募資格・国籍、年齢不問・読み、書き、会話が日本語«»英語でコミュニケーションが取れる方・IT分野に明るく、ホスピタリティー精神にあふれる方日本語で履歴書、自己PRをお送りください。 [email protected] Contact: LiNGO Inc. <[email protected]> [2559-5053-2015-04-15]

SALES PERSON FOR ACCESSORY STORE IN KITANO. Japanese speaking sales person needed for accessory / jewelry store in kitano area, next to minato bank. No sales experience necessary. Contact : 078 252 7670 email: a.G.Japan@mail. Com contact: a.G.Japan ltd <[email protected]> [2574-4446-

2015-04-18]

TOUR GROUP LEADERS. We are recruiting professional and dynamic group tour leaders to lead our clients in Kyoto and the surrounding areas. Visit our website at www.ventureea.com for more information or get in touch with us at [email protected] Contact: Venture <[email protected]>

Website: www.ventureea.com/ [2564-

2036-2015-04-15]

Entertainment

ACTORS AND PERFORMERS WANTED!. International Stage Academy seeks Singers, Actors, Dancers, Interpreters, MCs, or Public Speakers to teach performance and speech techniques part-time to adults and kids. Must already live in Kansai, speak fluent English and have professional experience on stage. Classes open in May. Performances regularly! Contact: Stage Academy Osaka <[email protected]> [2590-5251-2015-04-22]

SHOW DANCERS WANTED. The Burlesque Entertainment Cabaret in Namba is looking for show dancers.Approx. 3 performances a night between 7pm–1am. Decide your own schedule. If you love music and dance or are serious about dancing we want to hear from you! Over 18yrs old only. From ¥2,200/hr. Must speak some Japanese. Tel: 0120-300-440 (10am-midnight) • Website: en.the-burlesque.com.

Hospitality

”R VALENTINO” ITALIAN REST/PIZZERIA SANNOMIYA. Most popular Italian Rest/Pizzeria "R. valentino" located in Sannomiya,is looking for new staff to be employed in the hall as waiter/ess or managers,people with experience is a most, any languages ok plus little japanese. Full/Part-time, salary according to experience, own visa & accomodation is required.Contact: pietro <[email protected]> [2541-4841-2015-04-08]

COOKING/ WAITING STAFF WANTED. Loreley, the most oldest German restaurant in Osaka, is looking for friendly, proactive and reliable person as cooking / waiting staff. Japanese conversational skill is required for waiting staff. Hourly wage: 1000yen +, working time:18:00-22:30. For more details, please contact [email protected] Contact: Naoko Kutschmann <[email protected]> Website: www.loreleyjpn.com [2550-2160-2015-04-13]

ENGLISH SPEAKING BAR STAFF WANTED FOR BAR IN UMEDA. Beer & Pizza Gosuke. Conversational level Japanese required. All nationalities welcome. 3 hrs a night, 6pm–5am. ¥900/hr (first month ¥850/hr). Please contact the manager, Mr. Asada at 06-6312-3387 (4pm–midnight)

Classes & EventsCourses and

Classes

PERFORM IN ENGLISH! 演劇・舞台芸術の為のノウハウを英語で学びましょう！. Business, College, Kids •司会進行では、人前で自信を持って英語を話す為の練習を行い日本人の持つ英語への苦手意識をなくします! •発音では、ネイティヴから本物の発音を学びます。演劇スキルアップに限らず通訳等を目指す方にもオススメです。 Learn from former USJ performers!クラスは、ユニバーサルスタジオジャパンでのパフォーマー経験者・現在プロのパフォーマーとして活動中の者・ネイティヴ講師(英語母国語者)により行われます! Use discount code: KS2015 during April! Contact: Stage Academy of Performing Arts (Osaka) <[email protected]> [2588-5251-2015-04-22]

Events

CANADA DAY CELEBRATION. Canada Day is July 1st but we are going to celebrate on June 28th at Okura Kaigan. Come join fellow Canadians and friends of Canada for a BBQ on the beach. Canadian beer and wine will be available. More information to follow in next month's Kansai Scene and on the Kansai Canadian Association Website. Contact: Mark Robinson <[email protected]> Website: www.kansaicanada.com [2597-1283-2015-

06-26]

For SaleCARS FOR EXPORT FROM JAPAN AUTO AUCTIONS. Huge selection of genuine quality cars at wholesale prices. Note: T/T payment terms only. For more details: www.nippon-autos.com Contact: Fujita <[email protected]> Website: www.nippon-autos.com [2531-1159-2015-04-03]

CommunityAnnouncements

OSAKA BOOK GROUP'S APRIL MEETING. Eric Gamalinda's "The Descartes Highlands" will be discussed at Takamura Wine

& Coffee Roasters on April 19th, starting at 2pm. Contact: Massa <[email protected]> Website: www.facebook.com/groups/OsakaBookGroup/ [2539-337-2015-04-07]

LEARNING TO CODE? JOIN US!. Whether you're an expert, beginner or just curious, join people on the same journey. Share a project or course you're working on or just socialize with ppl who love to code. We don't mind what language you speak or code in. Join the G+ community or the Meetup http://is.gd/coffeeandcod Contact: BadCodeKansai <[email protected]> Website: is.gd/badcode [2464-2630-2015-04-11]

WAKE UP KYOTO. Wake Up – Young Adults for a Healthy and Compassionate Society, is a world-wide network of young people practicing the living art of mindfulness; under the guidance of Venerable Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Let's build a Sangha here in Kyoto. Contact: plumtree <[email protected]> Website: plumvillage.org/about/wake-up-young-practitioners/ [2536-4664-

2015-04-05]

Language Exchange

LOOKING FOR AN ENGLISH SPEAKING PERSON. I am a Japanese female who has lived in the U.S. for 15 years and is looking for English conversation partners in Kobe. Let's chat! Please call 080-2545-0023. Contact: Nobuko Anderson

HISTORY OF EUROPE-TALKS IN JAPANESE OR ENGLISH. If you interested in history, please bring your favorite topics to me. I know especially about Medieval Europe, the others. Please speak and teach, and I am going to tell you things which I studied. Contact: Shinya Hada <[email protected]> [2351-2007-2015-04-19]

LANGUAGE EXCHANGE GROUP IN OSAKA ON MONDAY NIGHT!. Let's do language exchange with us. My friends are looking for partners. We also have Japanese class at the same place. Volunteers help your study. Any level is OK! Let's study together! Contact: Rimi Makino <[email protected]> Website: www.facebook.com/rimi.makino.3 [2367-447-2015-04-05]

Sorry…Due to space restrictions we are unable to print all classified ads.See kansaiscene.com for more classifieds online.

5F

KitahamaEdobori

Dojima Nishi TenmaHanshin Expressway(Loop Route)

Naniwabashi

Nakanoshima

Watanabebashi

Oebashi

Keihan Main Line

Keihan-

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Kita Shinchi

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Route No.2

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USConsulate

Hotel Kansai

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SonezakiPolice H.Q.

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Drop InnOsaka

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Boston Clam Shack

Shinmei Law Office

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Navio Toho PlexHankyu

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NationalMuseum of Art

YodobashiCamera

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HotelGranvia

HiltonPlaza West

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Lagunaveil Premier

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MisterKelly’s

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Bank of Japan

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Hotel ElsereineOsaka

Dojima Hotel

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Dojima Avanza

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Namba Walk (underground)

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Hyogo-kenPrefectural Hall

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St. Michael’s International School

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Ikuta jinja

Hotel Monterey

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Kobe Grocers

Tokyu Hands

Kobe Sauna

Mickey’sClub

Midnight

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Tower Records

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Sansei Hosp.

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KyotoRoyal Hotel

KyotoAsahi Kaikan

Kyoto Royal BLDG.

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Kyoto City Hall

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Documents

KS #179 April 2015