Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
OPINIONS Fukushima’s cold shutdown status / Introducing an easing policy for the Eurozone?
Africa: The Next Economic Miracle / Step Into My WebBUSINESS / FOOD Back To School Lunch
ENTERTAINMENT The Power Of Film: 25th Tokyo International Film Festival
JAPANTODAY’S PREMIER ENGLISH DIGITAL WEEKLY MAGAZINE ISSUE 12 / VOLUME 01 / OCTOBER 2012
TRAVEL Shuzenji: Hot springs and history
WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION IN JAPAN -- WHERE TO BEGIN...PAGE 12 OF THIS ISSUE OF INSIGHT
SPECIAL FEATURE
3INSIGHT ISSUE 12
INSIGHT
Editor in ChiefChris Betros
Art Director/DesignerThong Van
ContributorsVicki L. BeyerRicky MatthewsLauren ShannonLuke HixsonPeter Lavelle
Account ManagersKieron CashellPeter Lackner
General [email protected]
PublisherGPlusMedia Co., Ltd.105-00113-1-1 Minotomi Bld. 3FShiba-koen, Minato-kuTokyo (Japan)Tel: +81 3 5403 7781Fax: +81 3 5403 2775Web: www.gplusmedia.com
Back Issueshttp://insight.japantoday.com/insight-magazine
Insight Magazine is published weekly online and can be read and downloaded to your PC or tablet for free.
Content may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from GPlusMedia.
©2012 GPlusMedia Co., Ltd.
Insight Onlineinsight.japantoday.com
Schools and Family NewsTokyo International School (TIS)Happy DaysGymboree Play & MusicSaint Maur International School and Ecole française
Health and BeautyTsuruki Mita Clinic
Hotels and Japanese InnsANA InterContinental TokyoHotel Okura TokyoOriental Hotel HiroshimaThe Peninsula Tokyo
Outdoors and SportsTokyo Sail and Power Squadron (TSPS)Tsutsujigaoka Country Club
Restaurants and BarsBulldog BBQHei Fung TerraceKimono Wine and GrillPeterSuji’sThe Irish TimesWhat The Dickens!
Professional OrganisationsItalian Chamber of Commerce in JapanLanguage Teaching ProfessionalsThe British Chamber of Commerce in JapanO.G.A for Aid
CoverCover photo by Vicki L. Beyer
4 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
SHUZENJI: HOT SPRINGS AND HISTORYSTORY AND PHOTOS BY VICKI L BEYER
Autumn is in the air. As the temperatures cool, the relaxing atmosphere of a traditional Japanese onsen-machi (hot spring resort), emits its siren call.
As a volcanic archipelago, Japan is rightly famous for its hot springs, over 2,000 of which have been developed into resorts. Shuzenji, on the Izu Peninsula, is one of the oldest. Just 2 1/2 hours from Tokyo, it combines a relaxing atmosphere with interesting history, making it a great week-end escape.
Like many hot spring resorts, Shuzenji is nestled in a valley and centered on a fast flowing river, the Katsura. In spite of its fame, it is not a large town and can easily be explored in a couple of hours, perhaps on the afternoon of your arrival, before you have a relaxing soak in the bath of your inn.
The hot springs are believed to have been first discovered by Kobo Daishi, the great Buddhist evangelist of the 8th/9th centuries. According to legend, the compassionate Daishi struck some of the rocks in the riverbed with his iron staff and the hot spring began to flow, enabling a filial son to provide a hot bath to his ill and aging father. Today, this pool - called Tokko-no-yu - is covered by a gazebo and is exclusively a foot bath. It’s a great place to soak your feet after you’ve explored the town. It’s also a good place to commence your tour.
Near Tokko-no-yu is Shuzenji Temple, from which the town derives its name. Founded by Kobo Daishi in 807, this was once an extensive temple complex with eight satellite temples and a large monastery. Today the site is much more
compact, comprising a 19th century temple building, a museum, some administrative buildings and a bell tower situated around a courtyard. But this space has witnessed significant historical incidents, including some related to the Minamoto clan that once made Kamakura the political capital of Japan.
In the late 12th century, as Minamoto Yoritomo was battling for dominance and trying to unite Japan as its first shogun, he became jealous and distrustful of his younger half-brother, Yoshitsune. When another half-brother, Noriyori, refused to take Yoritomo’s side in the matter, Yoritomo had him banished to Shuzenji. Noriyori was under house arrest in one of Shuzenji’s satellite temples until his death by ritual suicide in 1193.
Among the relics on display in the temple’s museum are artifacts relating to the life of another Minamoto who met his end in Shuzenji, Yoriie, nephew of Noriyori and eldest son of Yoritomo. Yoriie became shogun after his father’s death in 1199, but did not get along with his mother, Masako, or Hojo Tokimasa, his maternal grandfather. As a consequence, they contrived to replace Yoriie with his younger brother, and sent Yoriie to Shuzenji, supposedly for his health. His subsequent painful death in 1204, after bathing in poisoned waters, inspired Okamoto Kido to write his kabuki play, “Shuzenji Monogatari” in 1911. The museum includes a display about the kabuki play, as well as Yoriie’s
death mask, its contortions graphically displaying the agony he suffered. Just next to Shuzenji temple is Hie Shrine, surrounded by tall and stately cedar trees. This shrine, which guards Shuzenji, is also said to be closely associated with Noriyori, because of its proximity to his residence.
Crossing the river via the bridge in front of Hie Shrine, look for a wooden tower marking the entrance to Hako-yu. Now a day bath open to the public (admission
TRAVEL
5INSIGHT ISSUE 12
TRAVEL
350 yen) and famous for its cypress wood tubs, this is said to be the bath where Yoriie was poisoned. To the right (as you face Hako-yu) and up the hill, is Shigetsuden, a temple/library endowed by Hojo Masako, Yoriie’s mother, who was said to feel remorse over the violent death of her eldest son. This is said to be the oldest wooden structure on the Izu Peninsula, dating back to 1703. Only a handful of the Buddhist manuscripts originally held at the Shigetsuden remain here, others have been removed to Edo or lost over the centuries. Just next to Shigetsuden is Yoriie’s grave, overlooking a small clearing that also contains markers commemorating the tragic deaths of 13 of Yoriie’s retainers, cut down by Hojo troops when they attempted to avenge Yoriie’s death.
From here, work your way back down to the river and walk up river to cross at the Takeshita Bridge. Halfway up the hill on the other side is Noriyori’s grave. Back at the riverbank, walk the trail through a bamboo grove to return to Tokko-no-yu. Many of Shuzenji’s inns are built on the river’s banks, with others on the hill sides above the river. While most
of the inns are housed in buildings at least 50 years old -- and some have centuries-old histories -- most are well maintained and comfortable. Like most traditional ryokan, they are expensive, but the price includes a kaiseki-style dinner as well as full breakfast.
As soon as you enter your room, you cannot help but begin to relax. You can easily spend a pleasant and relaxing evening between private in-room dining on local delicacies (including local/regional sake) and several choices of baths. Some inns offer rotenburo (outdoor baths) and “family” bathing (large baths where you and your companions can bathe together but in private).
In spite of the violence in Shuzenji’s history, its mineral waters have long been sought as a health restorative. Besides inspiring Okamoto, it has other literary connections. Natsume Soseki (1867-1916) came to Shuzenji for relief of a stomach complaint. Nobel Prize winner Kawabata Yasunari (1899-1972) chose the Yukawa Bridge in Shuzenji for one of the scenes of his short story, “Izu no Odoriko”(The Izu Dancer).
After your exploration of historic Shuzenji and a relaxing evening “taking the waters”, venture further out the next day. Consider climbing Mt Daruma (elevation 982 meters), one of the highest mountains in western Izu. The trailhead is 30 minutes by bus from Shuzenji and the round trip hike on a well groomed trail takes 3 ½ to 4 hours. On a clear day, the views of Mt Fuji, as well as much of the Izu Peninsula and Suruga Bay, are excellent. Another alternative is Shuzenji Niji-no-sato, a theme park inside Shuzenji Nature Park that offers reproductions of western and Japanese villages as well as the opportunities for hands on experiences of traditional Japanese handicrafts. Like many theme parks, it can feel too contrived or artificial if you’ve set your expectations too high.
Getting thereTake the Shinkansen to Mishima, where you can catch the Izu-Hakone Railway to Shuzenji Station (approximately 40 minutes). From there, it’s less than 10 minutes by bus or taxi to the resort town.
View or download a walking tour map here
6 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
BUSINESS
Whilst the global media continues to comment on latest grief within of the European Union, Greece – in or out of the euro, further speculation over China’s hard or soft landing, and the ever-increasing volume of news around the US election, there is mounting evidence that the next big economic miracle is already building momentum, largely unnoticed - in Africa!
Africa is no longer a leap of faith for investors
In the past well-informed observers had often ridiculed Africa, as a continent driven by corruption, civil wars and poverty. However, since the emergence of China and India as economic growth engines, many are now asking whether this continent can also achieve its own economic miracle. There is no doubt there are promising signs, both on the political and economic fronts.
A slew of medium-term, fast-growth opportunities are building momentum thanks to rising levels of investment from global corporations and sovereign wealth funds from around the world.
Who’s investing in Africa?
China is just one example of the countries investing in Africa since 2010. Just recently it was announced that a further USD20 billion is to be invested by China at the China–Africa Summit.
AFRICA: THE NEXT ECONOMIC MIRACLE
The great news for investors though is that the Chinese are not alone in allocating major investment resources across the African continent. Other leading recent investors include:
India’s Essar Energy Group, a multi-billion dollar oil and gas company, which has invested in coal mines in Mozambique, oil interests in Kenya and even a call centre in South Africa. With more investment currently planned.
The UAE’s DP World, part of the Dubai World Company, which is the Emirates’ flag-bearing global investment business. It has interests across all six continents and is now investing in the management of African container terminals in countries such as Algeria, Djibouti, Mozambique, and Senegal.
Brazil’s Vale Group, the second-largest mining company in the world, is looking to make an additional investment in Africa over the next five years of approximately $20 billion USD. It already has operations in Guinea, Mozambique and South Africa.
RICKY MATTHEWSFPC, FAIQ(CII), MCSI.Director of Operations IFA-Asia
With over 20 years Sales, Marketing, Training and Management experi-ence in financial services, he has a full and wide knowledge of the financial markets.
www.ifa-asia.com
BY RICKY MATTHEWS
AFRICA: THE NEXT ECONOMIC MIRACLE
BUSINESS
Africa in 2012
Nigeria has 37 billion barrels of proven oil reserves; making it one of the top ten oil countries globally. The country also reformed its economy in significant ways in recent years. All this fuels Africa’s second largest economy (after South Africa), with average real GDP growth of over 7% for nearly a decade now.
Egypt, has been the best performing market in the world this year on hopes of a better political and economical situation, with several financial aid packages from the IMF and neighboring GCC countries lifting sentiment in the market.
In Kenya the market has performed exceptionally well due to the fall in inflation as a result of the easing of the drought conditions that beset the country in 2011. The decline in Kenya’s inflation this year has been quite astonishing. From a high in January of 18.3%, inflation in August hit a low point of 6.1%.
What are they investing in?
So what is it that these professional decision makers know that most of the rest of the world is still missing?
They know that over the next 10 to 15 years Africa is set to reap the benefits as several key drivers of growth and wealth gain more and more momentum:
● Rapidly improving access to relatively cheap and extractable energy resources for which Africa is becoming renowned – with continual new finds of oil andnatural gas
● A growing demand for food and the land to grow it on. Africa is not only home to 60% of the world’s arable land – it also has a climate that is in some parts similar to that of Brazil – currently the world’s leading tropical agricultural producer
● A young and educated population: young people to work and take advantage of these natural gifts. Africa is the youngest continent on the planet. More and more of these young people are ambitious to enjoy the privileges the developed world takes for granted. The appetite for knowledge and hard work is already in place and growing daily. But perhaps the most important key factor attracting investment professionals is their recognition that – viewed over the long term and on a pan-African basis – Africa is offering good investment value across a wide range of sectors and investment opportunities
Reasons to Invest in AFRICA
● An abundance of commodities● Excellent demographic conditions● Declining political risk● Low levels of sovereign debt● 60% of the global arable land● Over 1 billion people of which 41% are under age of 15
● Major improvements in education, health and technology● 6 of the 10 fastest growing economies from 2001-2010 were in Africa
Other interesting facts
Percentages of global resources that AFRICA has:
● 20% of the land mass● 90% of the diamonds● 50% of the gold● 90% of the phosphate● 74% of the chrome● 40% of the platininum● 8% of the petroleum● 12% of the natural gas● 12% of the oil
Did you know?
● Half of the increase in world population over the next 40 years will be in Africa● The cost of agricultural land in Argentina, Brazil and in the USA is 7x the cost in Africa● BRIC – African trade has increased by a compound annual growth rate of over 30% in the past decade● During 2009 – only 6 economies of Africa experienced an economic contraction in 2009
Source: African Economic Outlook, Africa Invest Fund Management, IMF, Bllomberg.
7INSIGHT ISSUE 12
8 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
BUSINESS
STEP INTO MY WEB
Jay Friendly heads Jaypan, a Yokohama-based development agency specializing in designing and implementing highly interactive and engaging experiences for the web
Tell us your background
I was born and grew up in a small town near Vancouver, Canada. I spent the first 24 years of my life there, graduating high school and attending the local university.
When did you first come to Japan and what brought you here?
I came to Japan in the summer of 2000, after I finished my last year of university. In that final year, I was living with a roommate whose ex-girlfriend had come to Japan to teach English to children. She was really enjoying her time here, and had told my roommate about it. He had decided to come to Japan himself, and while we were living together, he was in the process of obtaining a passport and a visa. At the same time, his future company was sending him all sorts of documentation, paperwork, and information about the job, apartments and the lifestyle. Of course, he was getting excited about his impending trip to the country, which in turn got me interested in this idea of traveling to Japan. Unlike many people who come here, I never had any particular interest in Japan, and my love for this country came after I came here and experienced it.
On the day my roommate moved out of our house, I was watching his moving truck pull away, and having no real plans on what I was to do next, I decided that I would also come to Japan. My friend set me up with the recruiter for the company he was to enter, and I called them and arranged an interview. Four months later I was on the plane for what I thought (and promised my mother), would be a year-long working vacation in Japan. But, as the end of that year was approaching, I was just becoming conversational in Japanese, and really enjoying living here, so I decided that I would go home when I was ready. Apparently I’m still not ready, because I’m still here.
What jobs did you do before starting your Jaypan last year?
The first year and a half, I worked for a nationwide children’s English school as a teacher. I really enjoyed teaching kids, but it started to burn me out after the first year. As anyone who has taught children knows, to do it right requires a high level of energy day in, day out. So when the foreign manager of our prefecture was moved to head office, I put forward my own name to take over his position. I spent three and a half years as the Shizuoka Area Manager, and in terms of personal growth, it was the most productive time of my life. I had to learn to look at things as a boss, which was a new experience for me. I was managing a team of 14 teachers, aged 19 – 55, from countries all over the world. I have to admit, I didn’t do very well at first, and I ended up with some teachers who were very unhappy with my performance. I had to really reflect on the job I was doing, how I was doing it, and evaluate myself and my actions from the perspective of my teachers. As such, I restructured my entire method of management, and by the end of my 3.5 years in this position, I was receiving awards from head office, respect from my teachers, and I was extremely satisfied in my job.
Unfortunately, at this point, the company decided they were switching to a Japanese-only management system, and all of a sudden I and 20+ other foreign managers, were out of a position. We were offered teaching positions, but the idea of going back to teaching didn’t appeal to me at this point, so I went on the search for another job.
JAY FRIENDLYOwner and founder of Jaypan web development agency.
www.jaypan.com
9INSIGHT ISSUE 12
BUSINESS
What then?
In university, I had been required to take Computer Sciences in my first year. I loved this course, and even though it was not directly related to my studies, I spent more time on the assignments for this class than I did on any other class any year. I’ve always loved puzzles, and programming is the ultimate puzzle. During my years in the eikaiwa industry, I started focusing the programming knowledge I had on building websites as a hobby, putting together a small portfolio.
So, I used this knowledge, my portfolio, and my Japanese skills, and found a Japanese company in Yokohama that hired me as the technical chief. My job position entailed maintaining the company websites, doing some translation, and taking our foreign associates out when they were in Japan. This however left me with a lot of free time, so I created an information-management system that we licensed out to our clients that allowed them to share information between remote branches of their companies, uploading files, attaching videos and images, and setting up a system of notifications and access levels. As I was a one-man division in the company, I had the freedom to decide what direction we needed to go, and how we would implement this system. I was also responsible for creating system documentation and training videos, and for traveling to our client’s locations to give them direct training on system usage. I spent six years at this company, which was an amazing experience that improved my Japanese level, business ability, and programming skills.
Why did you decide to start your own company?
The time was right. I had reached a plateau in the publishing company in terms of personal growth. I was at a point where I could do presentations in Japanese, and could build most anything I wanted on a website. However,
the company was not a web design company, so I was limited on my ability to utilize these skills. I had started freelancing about three years before I left the company, and as my freelancing business expanded, I realized that I could make the switch to doing web design and development full-time. I felt that I had the abilities and drive to go out on my own and make a success of it.
What sort of company is Jaypan? What are your services?
We are a web development and design company. We build web systems and applications. This is a little different from a standard website, which generally is built in HTML and will not change from day to day. Our websites are dynamic systems, which can involve anything from social networking, information dispersal, and integration with 3rd party systems (such as YouTube or Facebook). Beyond this, we specialize in creating user-friendly, beautiful websites. Our core principals are that a site needs to be easy to use, easy to look at and easy to understand.
Do you have many clients?
One thing I learned early on in my freelancing years was that taking on too many clients at once resulted in a loss in quality, due to time pressures and the accompanying stress. For me this was not acceptable. I build websites because I love building websites, and if I cannot take pride in each and every product we produce, then I would rather go back and teach children.
As such, we never take on more than three projects at a time, and that is only in the overlap when one project is ending, and a new project is beginning. Usually we will have two projects on the go, so that we can focus properly on these projects and ensure that the client receives a quality product, and has a smooth experience along the way.
Once a project is done, our client relationship shifts to one of maintenance and updates, occasionally adding new functionality, and generally each client only requires a few hours of work per month. So we do have many clients, but only 2-3 main projects at any given time.
Designing websites must be a very competitive business. What are your strengths?
This industry is very competitive, particularly with the global economy. It is impossible for us to compete with other companies on price, as people can have websites made cheaply in poorer countries for peanuts. That said, if there ever was an industry in which “you get what you pay for,” it is this one. Many of our clients have been people who have gone the cheap route, and ended up with systems that are buggy and/or user unfriendly, and that is if they even end up with a site at all. Many clients have paid a lot of money to a company only to have them disappear with no method of contact. Most of our clients have been through some sort of situation in the past that has caused them to reconsider their intentions of getting a site built as cheap as possible.
As such, we don’t even try to compete on price. Rather, our focus is on quality of product, and quality of service. I personally take care of all client interaction, and from my past experiences, I’ve found I’m able to match my level of lingo to the client’s ability to understand that lingo. We also maintain a client website with a private area for each client where we can conduct communication regarding the site, keeping everything structured, organized, and in one place. And finally, we implement automated testing systems in our websites during development that are used to ensure that newly added functionality does not break previously developed functionality.
10 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
BUSINESS
Of course, by not competing on price, we limit our customer base significantly, since the trend in the world is to try to get the most inexpensive product possible, but fortunately we’ve found that a market does exist, and these are who we target.
What is Drupal?
Drupal is an open-source Content Management Framework (CMF). This is a fancy way of saying it’s a frame on which a website can be built. Consider building a house – you can go and cut down a tree, mine some ore, and use these to create hammers, nails, and beams with which the house can be built. Or, you can buy a hammer and some nails, and use these to build the house. Drupal is built on the PHP programming language (the wood and ore), and is a framework (the tools and beams). We use this framework as the basis for most of our systems, with the exception of systems for clients who want a system built from scratch. Drupal is open-source, and used by tens of thousands of websites across the world, including The White House, Al-Jazeera, PayPal and Zynga. There is a dedicated security team, who search for security holes, and any user can report these security holes if they find them. As a result, Drupal is generally more secure than custom solutions, which only receive testing from a small group.
There are other systems out there to compare with Drupal, Wordpress being the best known. However, Drupal is generally thought to be the most robust and secure of these systems, which is why we use it in Jaypan.
I’ve spent the past five years working with all aspects of Drupal, including coding, caching, multilingualism, database management, security management, 3rd party API interfaces, deployment strategies and system backups. Jaypan has been certified on Drupal.org as a Drupal service provider, and we make the effort to put tutorials on our site for techniques that are not found in other, both to help the community, and to show prospective clients that we actually know what we are talking about. And to show our belief and confidence in Drupal, Jaypan.com is built on the Drupal framework.
How are you marketing your company?
So far, we have not had to advertise to find clients. Approximately 2/3 of our clients come to us through referrals. Our other method is SEO (Search Engine Optimization). We have coded our site in a search-engine friendly manner, so that it shows up high in the search results for our targeted key words. We also maintain a strong presence in the Drupal community, and the mentions of our name, along with links to our website, give the search engines the information they need to decide where we should appear in the search results. We do also have a FaceBook and Twitter page, but these are generally just used to create an online presence, rather than to source new clients.
How many staff do you have?
At the moment there are four of us, myself, a full-time front-end developer, a designer who works on a contract basis, and a part-time assistant who takes care of testing, translations, bookkeeping work and office management. We are intending to add a new full-time programmer next spring, so that I can focus more on running the business, interacting with clients and overseeing our projects.
Is this a 7-day-a-week job?
Not at all! I love my work, and I love this industry, but I am a believer a healthy work-life balance. I am a family man, and spending time with my family allows me to come into work rejuvenated, which allows me to work more efficiently, and produce a higher quality of work. I try to make things as comfortable for my staff as well. We dress casually, listen to music, and I don’t have them work overtime. I try to add small benefits as well, such as extra days off over the legal limit, freedom in choosing what days and times they want to work, and letting them leave early if we have a gap in the schedule. In this industry, many of the jobs can be soul-destroying, and as my staff is essential to the success of Jaypan, their quality of life is just as important as my own. I want my staff to be proud to work for Jaypan, and to enjoy their time here.
So to answer the question, I work six days a week, eight hours a day. This allows me to wake up and have breakfast with my son and take him to school, then come home for dinner at night and put him to bed. It’s a simple life, but a satisfying one.
How do you relax when you are not working?
I go to the gym two to three times a week, as I find this is good for both the body and mind. I also try to spend as much time with my wife and son as I can. I play guitar, read, and occasionally go hiking – Kamakura is beautiful at this time of year.
//
SCHOOL SPECIAL
12 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
As the second biggest economy in the world, Japan has some of the best international schools in the world. Japan is undergoing a rapid globalization of its education, and international schools are at the forefront of this change.
It is essential that the next generation of children are true “global communicators” and we as parents have the complicated task (even for the most studious and committed parents) of finding a school that will allow our children to develop and nurture their full potential, while allowing the family to function harmoniously and happily whether at home or abroad.
This is an ideal time of year to consider the first or next step for your child -- in most schools, class has been in session for a while now but it is still before the rush around enrollment deadlines for the following year.
We have put together a few points to remember when considering a school as well as an extensive school list and links. Our featured schools section also offers a deeper insight into some schools, and we invite you to visit our dedicated International Schools section regularly, in which the schools create and update their own pages within the Japan Today site.
Three things to consider when deciding on a school for your child.
2012 INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS SPECIAL
1. Do your homework before you even look at the schools
Prioritize what’s most important to your child and family, taking into consideration not only academics, special education, sports, arts, language and extracurricular activities but also practicalities like tuition, transportation and aftercare.
Your Location: How will your child get to school each morning? How long will it take, what transport links are available in the area, does the school provide a school bus? How will that affect your schedule, work etc?
Languages taught: If you plan to stay in Japan long term or are here short/medium term, it is important to consider what will benefit your child the most and aid them for the education path you have set out.
SCHOOL SPECIAL
13INSIGHT ISSUE 12
2. Visiting Schools - and what to look for when you visit
Facilities: Are the school’s facilities adequate? Particularly in the larger built-up cities, space is at a premium so check to see what facilities the school has/ or has access to. Are they up to date using a progressive teaching style / utilizing today’s modern digital techniques and equipment? Is the school safe, are the grounds properly contained and monitored?
School year schedule: Does the school follow the Japanese school calendar or that of another country? Planning family time, vacations and time of work or maybe even babysitting services need to be considered.
Support services: Does the school have adequate support services for students, particularly if your child has special needs, if they are adjusting from another school or a first language? Also, is there support for parents? Can you easily meet other parents at school? Is there a parents’ coffee morning or regular meet-up?
Extra curricular activities: Does the school offer and support extra curricular activities such as sporting, arts, music and academic-related clubs?
Accreditation: Is the school accredited and by which body?
Teachers and staff: Are the teachers at the school properly qualified? Does the school have a high turn-over of teaching staff? Is the admin/ management staff parent friendly?
Language: What is the predominant language at the school? What other languages are taught and how often?
3. Get more information
Whether you’re choosing a preschool or high school, find out what happens to children who graduate from that institution. Where do they go next, and are they successful there? Seek out parents whose children went through the program, and talk to them about their experiences.
Communication: How does the school communicate with parents? Clear lines of communication are essential to understand what’s happening at school.
Community: All of the schools have open days and community events held throughout the year which welcome perspective families to come along. This is a great way to not only see the school and teachers but also see the parents, students and general community spirit first hand.
The importance of early childhood education
Preschool education is the first contact your child will have with formal education learning and the foundation on which they will build on into their school years. The skills knowledge and confidence (not to mention aptitude and attitude) that your child develops in the preschool years will have a dramatic impact on your child’s success when formal schooling begins.
In today’s day and age, we expect children to know more by the time they start kindergarten than ever before. Getting the basics like color identification and the alphabet are a great advantage, as are developed social skills with other children - boosting your child’s self esteem and a skill-set they will need for the rest of their life.
Many international schools in Japan will conduct a short interview and possibly an observation session with your child, in many cases in a different room from the parents.
2012 INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS SPECIAL
SCHOOL SPECIAL
14 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
KspaceKspace is designed with children in mind, developed by those who know and delivered only by those who care.
We work hard to instill the importance of balance: play, enthusiastic academic study, creativity and physical activity. We assist the emotional, language, physical and social development of fun loving, curious, little people.
Kspace students and teachers are given confidence and flexibility to follow projects that fascinate, stimulate and leave a lasting impression, whilst achieving excellent academic standards.
Kspace parents feel a strong sense of community and belonging - achieved through support, open communication, and caring relationships with and amongst our team. We draw families together from all over the world, and our curricula cover the needs of foreign expatriates and Japanese students.
Tel: +81-3-5421-4186http://kspace.to
GymboreeOur age-appropriate mommy & me and drop-off classes will enhance your 0-5 year old’s social, cognitive and physical skills and encourage their creativity. Whether your child is playing in our spacious gym room, dancing and using instruments in our music room or exploring with colors in our art room, he or she will enjoy learning at Gymboree. Free trials are often daily for new families. We offer a variety of classes for each age level so please take a look at the schedule on our website and determine which class is best for your child. We are looking forward to seeing you and your family at Gymboree soon!
Tel: +81-3-5449-2311 (Motoazabu), +81-3-3723-0651 (Jiyugaoka), http://gymboree.jp
Happy DaysAt Happy Days international preschool in Tokyo, we believe in the importance of providing ‘holistic’ education in order to develop the ‘whole’ child. It is our mission to equip children in all aspects of learning; physical, emotional, social, linguistic, aesthetic and cognitive.
We understand that children of a young age develop at different rates and in different ways. By providing children with ‘real’ learning contexts in which to build upon current knowledge and understanding we can both celebrate those differences and learn from them.
We would like to welcome you to our school and we invite you to come in and have a look around. We offer classes for children from 15 months to 6 years old maintaining a teacher / child ratio of 1:6. Parents are provided daily feedback and insight into your child’s activities along with weekly individualized progress reports.
Tel: +81-3-3446-1540http://ebisupreschool.com
SCHOOL SPECIAL
15INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Makuhari International School (MIS)A new K-6 international school located in Chiba, Japan. The school is unique as it is the first government-run international school in Japan. Actively supported by Chiba Prefectural Government, the school caters to Japanese returnee, dual nationality and foreign children. As an international school with ‘Article One’ status, students here may transfer easily into the Japanese educational system at any time, or move on to other international schools of their choice after graduation. Opened in April 2009 with 150 students, enrollment is now close to 300 children from about 20 nationalities (as of April 2012).
The school follows the Japanese Curriculum - but completely taught in English (except for Japanese Language and Culture subjects), supplemented by additional content and objectives from other curricula mainly from the National Curriculum for England & Wales. While the level of facilities and standard of education at MIS compares very favorably with other international schools, the fees are less compared to other well-established International Schools in Japan. Located halfway between central Tokyo and Narita Airport. Easily reached from Tokyo Station on the JR Keiyo Line and takes about 30 minutes.
Tel: +81-43-296-0277http://mis.ed.jp
Nishimachi International SchoolNishimachi International School is a private, non-sectarian, coeducational K–9 day school founded in 1949 to educate students from around the world and Japan. Nishimachi’s educational philosophy is rooted in a spirit of internationalism and humanism that allows children to learn in a supportive, stimulating, and caring environment. The tradition has been to provide children with an education in English and one period of daily Japanese that seeks to develop international perspective and understanding.
The school’s mission is to educate students to be communicators, thinkers, and motivated lifelong learners who thoughtfully contribute to a diverse and changing world.
Tel: +81-3-3451-5520http://www.nishimachi.ac.jp
Seisen International SchoolLocated in Tokyo’s Setagaya Ward is a Catholic, college-preparatory, girls’ day school with a co-educational kindergarten. Students of all races, nationalitiesand faiths are challenged in moral, physical, spiritual,vintellectual and emotional development.
The three-year Montessori kindergarten is designed to take full advantage of the self-motivation and sensitivity of each child. The materials, unique to Montessori education arecarefully designed to enhance individual progress. The elementary school offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization.
Students are encouraged to be thinkers and inquirers. The teachers serve as facilitators and provide the necessary coaching, information and strategies to promote quality learning.
The high school’s rigorous academic program prepares students for college entrance worldwide with the IB Diploma Programme and selected IGCSE exams.
Many extracurricular activities in sports, fine arts and community service are available at all levels. Seisen is accredited by CIS and NEASC.
Tel: +81-3-3704-2661http://www.seisen.com
SCHOOL SPECIAL
16 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Summerhill International SchoolWelcome to Summerhill International School, where we combine the joys of learning with the art of education.
Our time-tested programs stimulate a child’s desire to learn and interact with others. At Summerhill, a child’s unique character is fostered and allowed to blossom naturally, guided by our caring and supportive teachers. Summerhill continues a 45-year legacy of excellent early childhood education in Tokyo, with programs that foster whole-child development, helping your child grow physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially.
We emphasize environmental awareness in the hope that our children will develop respect for the earth and all its inhabitants through our dynamic activities and hands-on programs, with after-school activities including ballet classes as well as our own soccer team. Above all, we believe in providing a safe and happy environment for the children, where they enjoy learning. Welcome to the Summerhill family!
Tel: +81-3-3453-0811http://www.summerhill.jp
Saint Maur International SchoolEstablished in 1872, is the oldest international school in Japan. The co-educational school offers a quality education within a well-maintained modern facility to students of all nationalities and religious beliefs, from pre-school through high school. Apart from academic success, the school is noted for the pastoral care of its students, and in order to achieve this, the school emphasizes ‘quality rather than quantity’, and limits its student body to a total of 500 students.
In keeping with the pioneer spirit of its early founders and commitment to education as a life-long pursuit, the school continues to implement innovative programmes to meet community needs, such as the establishment of an elementary French section, a ‘Toddlers’ Group for infants and their mothers, and an extensive ‘Adult Enrichment Programme’.
Saint Maur International School is fully accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and New England Association of Schools & Colleges. It is authorized as a School Juridical Body (Gakko Hojin) by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
Tel: +81-45-641-5751http://www.stmaur.ac.jp
St. Mary’sSt. Mary’s is a boys’ school founded in 1954 by the Brothers of Christian Instruction. About 850 boys from over 50 different countries, ranging from pre-1st to grade 12, study in a nine-acre site in the green residential area of Setagaya ward.
We offer a challenging array of core curricular and extracurricular programmes to meet the educational and developmental needs of young men. Our programmes are differentiated at different levels to the changing needs of the students, and focus on the learning characteristics of boys.
The new school building, completed in March 2011, includes the Classroom/Administration Building, Pool/Cafeteria Building, Gym/Fine Arts Building and artificial turf athletic field.
• U.S. college-preparatory programme and I.B.
• Core programme plus Art, Music, Japanese and other languages, PE and Swimming
• English as a Second Language programme
• College guidance
• Extensive school bus service
• Extracurricular activities, clubs, sports
• Ski programme, Grades 4 to 6
Tel: +81-3-3709-3411http://smis.ac.jp
SCHOOL SPECIAL
17INSIGHT ISSUE 12
British Football AcademyThe British Football Academy offers children the chance to learn and play football (soccer) after school and on weekends and holidays, in a safe, friendly and spirited environment.
Our motto is “Football Fun for All” and we delight in coaching boys and girls from all over the world who are currently living in Japan.
Our numerous classes (sessions), tailored to age and ability, are for children from ages two and a half to fifteen years old and the sessions are held at a number of convenient locations in Tokyo and Yokohama.
All of our dedicated British coaches have been certified by the English Football Association (The FA) and all sessions are coached in English.
In addition to our regular sessions, and for the more competitive older players, we also have run our own team called the ‘BFA Jaguars.’ The Jaguars play matches and enter a variety of well-known competitions throughout the year and have earned themselves, the team and the Academy plenty of silverware.
Tel: +81-3-3770-0288http://british-football-academy.com
Tokyo International SchoolTokyo International School offers a Pre K-8 program to 300 children from over 50 countries in Minato-ku. TIS is often referred to as being “truly international and a 21st Century Model School” Their focus on developing 21st Century Skills to ensure their learners are able to meet the needs of life-long learners in a world of constant change is second to none in Japan.
They synergize vigorous academic learning and assessment practices as a fully accredited and authorized IB World School, with the important relationships which exist between teachers, students and parents. In partnership with parents, they successfully live their mission daily….to nurture confident open minded independently thinking well balanced inquirers for global responsibility.
TIS’s powerful combination creates a very special school climate where learners are engaged in learning that is interesting, relevant, challenging and at the same time collaborative, encouraging and empowering.
Tel: +81-3-5484-1160http://tokyois.com
Asian Rural InstituteAt the Asian Rural Institute we are dedicated to training progressive rural leaders from the most marginalized parts of Asia, Africa and the Pacific, right here in Japan!
Practicing food self-sufficiency through organic farming, we form a unique and exciting international community of learning. The aim is to facilitate self-development of rural people in order to build a just and peaceful world. During almost 40 years, ARI has trained more than 1,200 grassroots leaders who serve in 55 countries for sustainable development, health care, education, disaster relief, peace building and indigenous minority groups.
Why don’t you visit our community’s Nasu campus (Tochigi prefecture) to learn more about our vision? We welcome volunteers of all ages to join our daily farm work, and to learn the spirit of sharing food and life for the future!
Tel: +81-287-36-3111http://www.ari-edu.org
SCHOOL SPECIAL
Doremi Garden Preschool InternationalMany of hands on opportunities to each child’s individuality through our academic English lessons (writing & reading), music, dance, gym, cooking, excursions with the monthly themes & drama. We enjoy PE, free play, gardening & parties in our garden.
4 classrooms with a school garden, a rooftop grass garden & cycling area. We have 4 age appropriate classes for the morning English preschool as well as afternoon English classes, gym, music, ballet, Karate, art, a school bus, school lunches and more!
Our teachers always try to balance the activities, everyone’s individual feelings, and to think what is best for each child. We will start enrolling for the next year from November.
Ages: 18months to 6years old
School hours: 10am -2pm / extended care is available till 5pm
Tel: +81-3-3554-3664http://doremigarden.com
18 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
ABC International Schoolhttp://www.abcinternationalschool.com- Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten: 15 months to 5 years old
Ai International Preschool (Preschool and Kindergarten)http://www.aiinternationalschool.com- Ages 18 months to 6 years
American World International Preschooland Kindergarten (5 locations)http://www.americanworld.jp
ASIJ (The American School in Japan Early Learning Center)http://www.asij.ac.jp
Aoba-Japan International School (Meguro Campus)http://www.a-jis.com- Ages 1.5-6, coeducational
Ayla International Schoolhttp://aylais.com- Ages 18 months to 6 years old (nursery, preschool and kindergarten age)
Azabu International School http://www.azabuis.com- Ages 18 months to 5 years
List of International Schools in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area
Preschool & Kindergarten
Only - English
SCHOOL SPECIAL
19INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Bilingual Kids International (Preschool)http://www.bkipreschool.com- Full day preschool 9:00 - 14:00, for children aged 18 months to 6yrs
Canadian International Schoolhttp://cisjapan.net
Central Forest International School http://central-forest.com
Chateau BonBon Chateau School http://www.chateaubonbon.com
Columbia International School http://www.columbia-ca.co.jp
DoReMi Garden Preschool, Internationalhttp://www.doremigarden.com
Eton House Internationa Preschool Tokyohttp://www.etonhouse.co.jp
Evergreen Home International Pre-Schoolhttp://www.geocities.jp/internationalevergreenhome
First Steps International Schoolhttp://www.firststeps-net.com
Grace International Learning Centerhttp://www.grace-learning.com- Preschool and kindergarten
Gregg International Schoolhttp://www.gis-j.com- Preschool (age 2) through grade 2
Happy Days International School http://ebisupreschool.com
Imagine International Schoolhttp://www.imagine-gc.com/imagine
International School of the Sacred Hearthttp://www.issh.ac.jp
International Center for Education (ICE)http://www.ice-world.co.jp - Newborns OK! Ages 0 - 6
International Kinder Househttp://www.thekinderhouse.com- Ages 2 to 5 years
J’s International Schoolhttp://www.js-international-school.com- 2.5 years old to 6 years old (pre-first grade)
Jingumae International Exchange School http://www.jies.jp
Joy to the World Preschoolhttp://www.joytotheworld.info
Jun International Preschoolhttp://www.jun-i-preschool.com- 18 months to 6 years old
K. International School http://www.kist.ed.jp
Kspace International Schoolhttp://www.kspace.to- Baby’s, crawlers and toddlers - Pre K to 5 yrs old
Keiki Intercultural Preschoolhttp://www.keikipreschool.com
Kincarn International School http://www.kincarn.com
Kids Talkhttp://www.kids-talk.co.jp- Preschool ages 3 - 6
SCHOOL SPECIAL
20 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Paradise English Kindergarten http://www.geocities.jp/para_dise_english
Poppins International Preschool http://www.poppins.co.jp/pips- Pre-kindergarten ages 12 to 47 months (3 years)
PTC Pacific International Schoolhttp://www.ptc-school.net/englishindex.html- Preschool/kindergarten, ages 2.5 through 6- Ages 18 months to 6
RLC Preschool - Roppongi Lutheran Church http://www.rlcpreschool.com- 18 months to 4.5 years old
Selsen International School http://www.seisen.com
St. Alban’s Nursery Programhttp://www.saintalbans.jp- Preschool / Kindergarten (2 - 4.5 years old)
Sesame International Preschoolhttp://sesame.jap.co.jp- English preschool, all nationalities welcome, ages 1 - 6
Seta International Preschoolhttp://www.seta-inter.com- Ages: 3 years - 6 years
Shikahama English Adventureshttp://www.sea-japan.com- Preschool M-F for children age 2-6
Summerhill International Schoolhttp://www.summerhill.jp- 15 months to 6 years old
Sunshine International Schoolhttp://sunshine-international-school.com- Ages 18 months to 6 years
Tamagawa International Preschool / Kindergarten http://www.tips-japan.com
The Learning Treehttp://www.growing-trees.com/learning
Twinkle Star International Preschool & Learning Centerhttp://www.twinkle-star.info- Preschool program (2-4), and afternoon program (4-7)
Victoria International Schoolhttp://victoria-interkids.com- 1 to 5 years old
West Tokyo Preschoolhttp://www.westtokyopreschool.com- Preschool ages 3, 4 and 5
Willowbrook International School http://www.willowbrookschool.com- Ages 18 months - 6 yrs
Yoyogi International Schoolhttp://www.yoyogiinternationalschool.com- Preschool 18 months to 4 years old, kindergarten 4 to 6 years old
Kids Worldhttp://www.pigeonhearts.co.jp/kidsworld
Komazawa Park International Schoolhttp://kpipk.com- Ages 2 through 6
Kunitachi Kids International School http://kkids.jp
Learning Treehttp://www.growing-trees.com
Little Minds International Schoolhttp://www.little-minds.com
Manabiba Bilingual Preschoolhttp://www.manabibabilingualschool.com- Preschool/kindergarten (2 - 6 years old)
Maria’s Babies’ Societyhttp://www.mariasbabies.co.jp- Preschool/kindergarten
Makuhari International Schoolhttp://mis.ed.jp
Mitsui Gardens International Preschool http://ewatokyo.wordpress.com/mitsui-garden-international-preschool- Preschool from 18 month - 4/5 years old
Montessori Friends International Schoolhttp://www.montessorifriends.com- 18 months to 6 years
Morey English Academy http://www.moreyenglish.com
New Hope International Preschool and Kindergartenhttp://www.newhopeclc.jp- Full day preschool thru age 12
Ohana International School http://www.school-in-tokyo.com
Oak English Academy American Preschoolhttp://oak-english.com
Ortiz Global Academyhttp://www.oga-international.com
PAL International Schoolhttp://www.pal-school.com- Pre-kindergarten ages 18 months to 5
SCHOOL SPECIAL
21INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Schools with Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary and, in some cases, High School Programs - English
Asian Rural instituteInternational school for organic farminghttp://www.ari-edu.org
American School in Japan (K-12: Chofu campus)http://www.asij.ac.jp
Aoba-Japan International School (Suginami Campus)http://www.a-jis.com
Axis Kichijoji Internationalhttp://www.axisk.com- Ages 3 through grade 12
British School in Tokyohttp://www.bst.ac.jp- Preschool and secondary (3 to 18 years of age)
Canadian International Schoolhttp://cisjapan.net- Canadian K-12 program
Christian Academy in Japanhttp://caj.or.jp- Kindergarten to grade 12
Columbia International Schoolhttp://www.columbia-ca.co.jp
India International School In Japan (IISJ)http://www.iisjapan.com- 3 years old through 10th grade
Gymboreehttp://gymboree.jp
International School of the Sacred Hearthttp://www.issh.ac.jp-Kindergarten to grade 12, Ages 3-18
K. International School (since 1979)http://www.kist.ed.jp- Kindergarten through 12th grade
Keimei Gakuen Elementary, Junior and Senior High Schoolhttp://www.keimei.ac.jp- Christian, co-educational, kindergarten (age 3) through high school
KAIS International Schoolhttp://www.kaischool.com- Coeducational, accepting students from Grade 5 up to Grade 12
New International Schoolhttp://newis.ed.jp- Coeducational Pre-K (2 years 8 months old) through Grade 9
Nishimachi International Schoolhttp://www.nishimachi.ac.jp- Coeducational classes, kindergarten to grade 9
St. Mary’s International Schoolhttp://www.smis.ac.jp- Kindergarten to grade 12
Saint Maur International Schoolhttp://www.stmaur.ac.jp
Seisen International School (not related to St. Mary’s though they share many activities)http://www.seisen.com- Preschool to grade 12
The Montessori School of Tokyo http://montessorijapan.com- 18 months to 12 years old
Tokyo Children’s Academy http://www.tokyochildrensacademy.com- Multi age classrooms from ages 3-14
Tokyo International School (TIS) http://www.tokyois.com- Preschool through Middle School
Tokyo YMCA International Schoolhttp://tokyo.ymca.or.jp/tyis- Kindergarten/elementary - Ages 4 to about 13
Waseda International School [Opened March 2012]http://wasedais.jp- Kindergarten/elementary - Ages 4 to about 13
22 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
FOOD
School lunches are making news all over the world. In the UK celebrity chef, Jamie Oliver took on the scared bad-for-you food traditions of deep fried fish and other unhealthy fare that was the norm in British school cafeterias. Michelle Obama in the USA has become a champion for better-balanced meals for American kids. And globally people are paying more attention to early childhood eating and how it contributes to obesity related diseases later in life.
Here in Japan the basic school lunch has always been a healthy option- balanced and nutritious but not very adventurous and since last year- concerns about food sources and budget have started to impact the variety of food available in the average Japanese school lunch.
International schools and International Catering companies are leading the way in new thinking about the relationship between kids and lunch- promoting menu items from around the world to introduce cross cultural communication and understanding, and promoting transparency in food sourcing with concerns to the aftermath of the nuclear reactor disaster in Fukushima.
Two companies that are really changing the taste and tradition of school lunches in Japan are Cezar’s Kitchen and To the Moon and Back Catering. Both companies agree that what kids eat can make a huge difference in health, happiness and global understanding.
Cezars Kitchen is a Japan based, onsite-catering solution for schools and universities interested in having more than only Japanese style lunches for their students and faculty. The parent company, Cezars International K.K. was founded 17 years ago and has been serving the international and Japanese community ever since. They specialize in authentic international nutritious menus and boast having chefs from around the world, including Germany, American, England, Australia, Malaysia and of course, Japan; just to name a few.
Cezars Kitchen was started at Nagoya International School after being contacted by the head master, at that time, who wanted a healthier and more international menu concept for the school. Cezars also leverages the power of modern technologies to make their lunch sign up easy and to communicate directly to families and schools.
BACK TO SCHOOL-LUNCH
TRUE TASTE TOKYO BY LAUREN SHANNON
CEZAR’s School Buffet
23INSIGHT ISSUE 12
To the Moon and Back Catering, a well-known team in Tokyo that has been providing exciting menus for universities, embassies. companies and personal parties- has also been doing special events for many international schools for over 10 years. I am a bit biased since I am a founding member of To the Moon and Back- but when asked to do this story I was totally comfortable sharing info about what I believe are the two best international catering options available in as objective was as possible.
Starting in 2011 To The Moon and Back launched a daily lunch programs for k-12 schools. Their first client Aoba Japan International School was looking for a high level of personalization and flexibility in their program and a strong focus on how food services can fit into the whole school curriculum throughout the year. To the Moon and Back (TTMAB) prepares a wide variety of international menus and can offer vegetarian options and other dietary specific requests whenever possible. In terms of transparency TTMAB works with vendors and parents to share the latest information on agricultural and radiation concerns and shares contact information and background details of their ingredients suppliers.
In addition the TTMAB food services team is partnering with the school to develop an “Edible Classroom” working garden- promoting an understanding of where food comes from and how it grows – to strengthen every student’s relationship with food, health and the environment. TTMAB also promotes integrated food experiences like last year’s “Stone Soup” lunch based on a fairy tale where a whole village comes together to prepare a meal that is more than the sum of its parts. The TTMAB team also helps with school festivals and holidays including an annual pumpkin carving and seed baking Halloween event. This year TTMAB has expanded and is now providing lunches two times a week for Nishimachi International School.
Cezars and TTMAB are both innovative catering teams that are promoting healthy, fun and international eating. For more information on the programs they offer please visit their respective websites.
General InformationTo the Moon and Back ⇢ www.moonandback.jpCezar’s Kitchen ⇢ www.cezarsjapan.com
FOOD
ENTERTAINMENT
24 INSIGHT ISSUE 12
Films with a message highlight the 25th Tokyo International Film Festival. The 25th edition of the Tokyo
International Film Festival (TIFF) kicks off this weekend for nine days from Saturday until Oct 28 in and around Roppongi Hills. Fifteen films will be screened in the Competition Section. A total of 1,332 titles from 91 countries and regions were submitted to TIFF this year. In addition to the films in the Competition Section, a total of around 300 films will be screened during the festival, organizers said. The international jury is being headed by American producer/director Roger Corman who last attended the festival as a juror when it was held in Kyoto in 1994.
The festival has many events and categories, with a special emphasis on films carrying underlying messages that place emphasis on “co-existence of nature and mankind.” Among the many categories, Special Screenings features mainstream films out of competition prior to their public release in Japan.
Other sections include Winds of Asia - Middle East; Japanese Eyes, which showcases a broad range of Japanese films for worldwide audiences; Indonesian Express and WORLD CINEMA.
The overall theme this year is The Power of Films, NOW! Two films will open the festival on Oct 20, “Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away” and “Japan in a Day,” while Clint Eastwood’s new film, “Trouble With the Curve” will bring down the curtain on Oct 28. “Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away” is a 3D look at the famous circus from visionary filmmaker James Cameron and director Andrew Adamson. “Japan in a Day” -- a collaboration between director Ridley Scott and Fuji TV – is a compilation of never-before seen video footage of the March 11, 2011 disaster sent in by people who experienced the earthquake and disaster.
Once again, the festival will have an eco-friendly theme -- a green carpet will be rolled out for the opening night at Roppongi Hills as a symbol of ecology. The carpet was made from recycled plastic bottles by Coca-Cola (Japan) Co and Teijin Ltd.
INSIGHT ISSUE 12 25
In an attempt to make the festival appeal to younger Japanese audiences, organizers have appointed former AKB48 singer Atsuko Maeda, who “graduated” from the group in August, as a special ambassador. Joining festival organizers and director Tetsuaki Matsue at a recent press conference, Maeda said she was very honored to have been chosen for the role. “Actually, I’m quite nervous about it,” she said. “The Tokyo International Film Festival has been running since before I was born. But I really love film, so I’m very much looking forward to contributing.”
After she left AKB48, Maeda said she would like to concentrate on an acting future. “I’ve been blessed with a truly fantastic starting point here. I want to become an actress with the versatility to play any role, and an actress that directors are eager to work with,” she said.
Last year, the Tohoku disaster was very much in the minds of film festival organizers, and this year, TIFF continues its support for the recovery effort. There will be an Internet charity auction with the support of Rakuten with proceeds going to Cinema Yell
Tohoku to support their screening activities in Tohoku. This will be in addition to the Green Tokyo Fundraising Campaign and Kinoshita Forest.
With the emphasis on Asian films, there will not be as many big foreign stars as in previous years. The Tokyo event has always found it challenging to be seen as one of the world’s most important film festivals, trailing the Busan Film Festival, for example, which has just ended. Its glory days were in the 1990s, reaching its zenith in 1997 when the world premiere of “Titanic” was held in Tokyo, drawing media and film company executives form all over the world, as well as thousands of Japanese fans of Leonardo DiCaprio who was just reaching his peak. During that era, Harrison Ford, Brad Pitt and many other stars came for their films.
While the Tokyo festival is certainly a chance to see lots of independent films from many countries with English subtitles, unfortunately, most of them will never be theatrically released. So grab this chance while you can. There are always a few diamonds among the rough.
Photo CreditsPoster for the 25th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) • ‘Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away’ ©2011 Cirque du Soleil Burlesco LLC. All Rights Reserved • Former AKB48 singer Atsuko Maeda, left, and director Tetsuaki Matsue pose with festival organizers, ©2012 TIFF • ‘Japan in a Day’ ©2012 Fuji Television Network, Inc., Japan In A Day Films Ltd.
For all information Screening schedules, venues and ticket prices, visit:
⇢ http://2012.tiff-jp.net/en/
OPINIONSDoubts about Fukushima’s cold shutdown statusBY LUKE HIXSONLuke Hixson is a U.S.-based researcher.
In January of this year, Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) conducted an investigation in the inside of the primary containment vessel (PCV), of the No. 2 reactor at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. They had been assuming that the water in the PCV was around OP9500, but were unable to locate the water level inside of the containment vessel and ultimately guessed that the top of the water must be just out of their ability to investigate.
In August, workers began preparatory work at the No. 1 reactor to investigate the inside of the primary containment vessel. This month, workers at Fukushima Daiichi began an investigation at the No. 1 reactor with an endoscope camera. Photos were taken by a camera, data was collected on radiation dose, ambient temperature, water temperature and water level were collected and sampling of accumulated water was conducted. New PCV ambient temperature thermometers and water gauges will also be installed to improve monitoring.
The goal of the work is to determine the current
conditions in the water, and the amount of contaminated water in the vessel, but after the first day of investigation, workers were unable to find the water level in the reactor, and some damage was found. For reactors 1 to 3, it is assumed that nuclear fuel and core internals have melted and resolidified (fuel debris) and have escaped in varying amounts from the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) and are thought to currently be located in the primary containment vessel. The nuclear fuel can now only be removed while under a pool of water to ensure the temperature and radiation levels are controlled.
As hydrogen concentration and Kr-85 radioactivity density have been changing since April, it is assumed that the hydrogen generated in
the early stage of the accident and Kr-85 which remain in the upper part of the suppression chamber are intermittently released into the dry well.
First, the inability to locate the water obviously means that the water being pumped into the containment is escaping, either through a large hole in containment, or a series of smaller holes. Secondly, if there is no accumulated water, than there is far less shielding and decay heat removal available than TEPCO has accounted for, which would also infer the melted fuel in the containment vessel may be exposed.
The radiation levels inside of the reactor are one of the key indicators used to determine the location and formation of melted nuclear fuel. If the
nuclear fuel was exposed, the radiation fields produced by the melted nuclear fuel would’ve produced radiation fields so strong they would be detectable outside of the reactor building, and no radiation levels that high have been confirmed by the utility.
These new findings by TEPCO may suggest that the water is not adequately cooling any melted fuel which may be located in the containment vessel, or may also infer that the melted fuel has relocated to another location and the containment may be working as a shield to block the radiation emitted.
When looking at raw data provided by TEPCO, one can see that there has been no major flux in temps or radiation levels in a while, which may mean that this
condition has existed for some time. The key question is how long has the majority of the coolant water pumped into the reactor been escaping and providing little if any shielding to the melted nuclear fuel.
In short, we have been playing the “where is the corium” game since the first week of the disaster, and the recent finding (no water found in containment vessel) is increasing evidence, when verified by the temperature and radiation levels as given by TEPCO, that the fuel may not still be located where they thought it was.
//
Will Japan introduce an easing policy to match U.S. and Eurozone?BY PETER LAVELLEThe author is a London-based foreign exchange broker.
In the last six weeks, both the U.S. Federal Reserve and European Central Bank have announced they will inject unlimited sums into the financial markets, in part to weaken their currencies. Given the excessively strong yen, will Japan follow suit?
Spend enough time working in the foreign exchange industry, as I have, and you eventually come across a conspiracy theory type line of thought called “the currency wars.”
This is the idea that, since 2008, the world’s developed countries have each engaged in the same policy. This is to stimulate growth by encouraging exports, which in turn means weakening their currencies in the most rapid and aggressive way possible. In other words this is a monetary “race to the bottom.”
If you buy into this theory, and believe that the United States, Eurozone and others are racing to make their currencies worthless, with economic growth the prize, then the last six weeks have seen the biggest salvos yet.
Six weeks ago, the European Central Bank announced Official Monetary Transactions: a promise to buy Eurozone government debt in unlimited quantities, to keep Spain etc. in the currency. Of course, this means flooding the market with euros in the process.
OPINIONS
INSIGHT ISSUE 1126
“...the inability to locate the water obviously means that the water being pumped into the containment is escaping...”
Elsewhere, last month the U.S. Federal Reserve announced Quantitative Easing 3: a promise to inject $40 billion into the U.S. economy each month forever until unemployment falls to acceptable levels.
Both announcements of which leave Japan somewhat stuck on the sidelines. If these policies succeed in weakening the dollar and euro against the yen, it will only be a continuation of what we’ve seen since the financial crash.
Since the crash, for instance, the euro has fallen from a pre-crisis level of 169.34 to the yen to just 101.94. The U.S. dollar meanwhile has fallen from 100.33 to 78.75 at the time of writing. In other words, the yen has strengthened massively against both currencies.
All of which begs the question: is Japan just going to sit back and let this happen? It’s not, after all, as though Japan’s economy is somehow stronger than those of the United States and Eurozone, and so
warrants this yen strength. Quite the contrary, Japan is as implicated in the global slowdown as any country.
First of all, it’s important to note that Japan hasn’t just sat back and watched this happen. In fact, the Bank of Japan invented quantitative easing a decade ago, utilizing it first to combat deflation, and again last year, after the Fukushima nuclear disaster saw the yen explode.
Furthermore, just last month, the Bank of Japan injected 10 trillion yen into the economy, in an effort to combat the strong currency. This takes its total quantitative easing up to 80 trillion yen in total, or $1.02 trillion.
Yet increasingly, its efforts have seemed inadequate, as evidenced by the fact that, well, the yen keeps climbing. What started as a tool exclusive to Japan has, as I mention, come into widespread use elsewhere, making Japan’s efforts in themselves less effective.
Given this, we’ve seen Japan become increasingly forthright about the idea of currency intervention. Speaking to the Wall Street Journal last week for instance, economy minister Seiji Maehara said, “If we judge that the yen has become excessively strong, it’s true that Japan may intervene on its own.”
This matches remarks from Finance Minister Koriki Jojima who, at a recent meeting of the G-7, raised his concerns about the continually strong yen, without meeting objection from the other members.
Hence, it is quite possible that, before long, Japan will again intervene in the foreign exchange market, with a policy to match that of the Federal Reserve and Eurozone. Will that see the yen fall? Well, if the Japanese government is truly that determined, it won’t stop until it gets the result it wants.
If you happen to be living in Japan, that will see transferring money into the country cheaper, as the
Japanese currency loses value. On the other hand, for people expatriating funds back to the United States for example, the exchange rate could be about to decline.
Either way, it probably means we’ve not seen the end of the currency war, as the world’s third largest economy steps up to the plate, to equal the policies introduced by its global rivals.
//
OPINIONS
Live Music Schedule:Oct 19: NERD ROCK with The Spazmatics
Oct 20: TK & The Bluesblasters
Oct 21: Pirates of Tokyo Bay! (Comedy)
Oct 23: Derek Short New Jazz Funk Trio
Oct 24: Mona & The Hoo Else
Oct 25: Tom Holliday Rock n Roll Covers
Oct 26: Sluggo Monster Rock www.whatthedickens.jp
INSIGHT ISSUE 11 27
“If we judge that the yen has become excessively strong, it’s true that Japan may intervene on its own.”
