spring road trips - kansai scene magazine

FREE MONTHLY GUIDE COVERING OSAKA • KYOTO • HYOGO • NARA • WAKAYAMA • SHIGA

SpringRoad TripsGet a set of wheels and get off the tourist trail

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> THE BEAUTY AND TRADITIONS OF TOYAMA

> KANSAI’S BEST OUTDOOR MARKETS

> DELECTABLE DINING IN NAKAZAKICHO

APR 2018 / ISSUE 215

FIND OUT WHAT’S ON AROUND KANSAI

INCLUDING

18 FoodspottingBe charmed by the artistic and retro cafés of Nakazakicho.

FOOD & DRINK Text: Celia Polkinghorne

08 A Trip to ToyamaExperience the natural beauty and traditional arts and crafts of Toyama Prefecture.

TRAVEL Text: Jason Haidar

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 appproached 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 HISTORYKansai Scene was founded by Peter Horvath and Nishikawa Keiko in 2000 and published by Jatin Banker between 2003 – 2011.

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

Production Assistant ........................Miyoko Morita

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

Art ........................................................Peggy Holsclaw

Cinema .................................................Miyoko Morita

Event & Festival ....................................Tomoko Ishii

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

Club .......................................................Saiko Fujiwara

Contact Kansai SceneGeneral [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

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

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Connect withKansai Scene…

04 Japan in a VanGet out of town and celebrate the arrival of spring with a campervanning adventure.

FEATURE Text: Randy Poehlman

06 Best Markets in KansaiEnjoy both the sunshine and shopping at these five outdoor markets.

FEATURE Text: Brooke Larsen

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Events & Festivals ......................................................10

Art .......................................................................................... 16

Live Music ........................................................................ 19

Club .......................................................................................24

Cinema ................................................................................26

Classifieds ........................................................................27

Getting Around / Maps ...........................................29

ON THE COVER: This month’s cover image is of Shoryoe – the memorial service for Prince Shotoku at Shitennoji Temple, Osaka.

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kansaiscene @kansaiscene kansaiscene Kansai-SceneFacebook Twitter Instagram Meetup

While it felt like it may never come, spring is finally here, and what better way to make the most of the season than to take a road trip to explore another prefecture? Our writers Randy Poehlman and Jason Haidar have been driving around the Chugoku region (p 04) and Toyama Prefecture (p 08) respectively, and have put together some enticing recommended itineraries. If you’re keen to stay local this spring, how about heading to one of Kansai’s unique outdoor markets? Brooke Larsen is in the know and brings us all the details of Kansai’s best markets on page 6. If you’re looking for a quaint spot for coffee and cake or a light meal, look no further than the hipster town of Nakazakicho (p 18) – it seems that every time we look, we find another new and interesting cafe or boutique in that trendy retro neighborhood. If you’re keen for some festival action this month, check out our events and festivals listings starting on page 10. We hope you enjoy the spring season!

Looking for a job, an old sofa or new friends? » kansaifinder.com

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com 3

The majority of visitors to Japan will rely on the country’s well-es-tablished transporta-

tion infrastructure consisting of mostly trains, domestic flights, and highway buses. But truly creating your own adventure requires your own transporta-tion. All the better if you can combine sleeping quarters with a vehicle. Campervans are in-creasingly popular among tour-ists to Japan seeking to explore rural areas and develop a deeper connection with the country and its people.

For many, the appeal of go-ing to bed and waking up with

castles out the window, hav-ing barbecues on the beach, and driving to and from all the major sites on your must-see list is too enticing to pass up. If you are traveling in Japan with your significant other, a few friends, or your family, having your own vehicle is definitely the best way to tailor-make your unique holiday experience.

For our trip, we rented a Conversion Van from Camper x Camper in Osaka and spent a long weekend exploring parts of Hyogo Prefecture as well as the Chugoku Region (Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi prefectures). The

Van was a Toyota Voxy equipped with extra mattresses and camp-ing equipment. With the back seats folded down, it provided a comfortable sleeping area and a great all-around camp-ing experience.

The main expenses associated with this type of travel are the price of the rental vehicle, gas or petrol for the vehicle, and highway toll charges. However, you can significantly reduce the price of tolls by traveling on public highways and roads, which are toll-free. We decided to do much of our driving along the coastline, following the coast in Tottori, Shimane, and

Drive Out of Town this Spring

Get a taste of van life with a Japanese campervan adventure.

Text & Images: Randy Poehlman

FEATURE

Kansai Scene Magazine / ISSUE #215 APRIL 2018 / kansaiscene.com4

Yamaguchi, so not only did we largely avoid tolls, but we were able to make various pictur-esque beachside stops along the way.

Our first stop was Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture. After scoping out the picturesque Himeji Cas-tle, we headed to Kagura no yu, a public hot spring attached to a hotel in the city center where we had a nice long hot soak. On-sen (hot springs) and sento (pub-lic baths) are ubiquitous all over Japan, which is incredibly handy when traveling in a campervan, which is obviously not equipped with shower facilities (On this trip we also visited Hikawa Bijin Onsen in Shimane Prefecture and Otani Sanso in Yamaguchi Prefecture). After bathing, we found a parking spot adjacent to the lit up Himeji Castle and drifted off to sleep with a beauti-ful view out the back window.

On Saturday morning, after leaving Himeji, we drove toward the opposite coast in the direc-tion of Tottori. We arrived in the Hiruzen Highlands, which border Okayama Prefecture and Tottori Prefecture, and parked the van at the trailhead of Shimo-Hiruzen. As we climbed toward the top, we could still see a light snow cover higher on the mountain, but the initial climbing was light and easy. After reaching the summit, having lunch, and descending, we hopped back in the van and continued driving towards the coast. For this trip, I brought my personal tripod camping grill (not included with the rental van) along with some meat and vegetables so we could enjoy sunsets barbecues and spend nights parked on the coast.

Sunday morning, we woke up and drove into Izumo City and spent and an hour or so look-ing around Izumo Grand Shrine and visiting the city’s old train station. The rest of the day was mostly spent driving along the oceanfront through Shimane and much of Yamaguchi before arriving at Motonosumi Inari Shrine. This shrine outside of Nagato City is one of the most spectacular in the country and features a trail of bright red torii gates along the coast. After meandering through the torii gates, you arrive at a rugged open area high above where the waves crash against the rocks. It is absolutely stunning, and a clear highlight of the Chugoku region. Yamaguchi prefecture is also known for delicious seafood and the coveted fugu (poison-ous blowfish) is a delicacy. The thinly sliced fugu sashimi is available at supermarkets, and fish markets throughout the prefecture and our Sunday night barbecue menu featured fugu Sashimi and Yamaguchi strawberries as well as sazae shellfish (turbo snails) and sweet potatoes, all purchased at a local seafood market.

Another Yamaguchi prefec-ture attraction is the Akiyoshido Caves in the middle of the prefecture and we spent much of Monday morning touring through these cavernous rock shelters. The cave lighting and audio guide in various languag-es makes the experience visitor friendly and easy for anyone of any age. The general entrance fee is (¥1,200) and there is an optional (¥300) “caving experi-ence” where visitors can climb ladders and explore more of

these various rock formations with a provided flashlight. After emerging from the caves, it was time to turn our attention to lunch. Another popular dish in Yamaguchi, is a type of yaki-soba (stirfry noodles) dish cooked on a sizzling traditional Japanese roof tile. So we set the GPS for the top-rated Choshuya Yuda restaurant in Yamaguchi City near Yuda-Onsen for a scrump-tious meal and one last hot spring dip.

Monday afternoon and even-ing was spent making the long journey back to Osaka. Given time constraints and ease of travel, we opted to take the toll road expressway back, with a planned stop in Okayama. From Yamaguchi to Osaka, the tolls were approximately ¥11,000. KS

Van Rental DetailsTo rent a vehicle in Japan, you must be legally allowed to drive in the country, which means having a Japanese driver’s license or an international driving permit. If you want to travel outside the major urban areas, be in full control of your movements and travel schedule, enjoy a sense of adventure, and go to places that are otherwise difficult to get to, there is no better transport option than a van.

Our Camper x Camper van was fitted with a bed, bedding (including pillows), privacy curtains, a cooler box, a camping table and two camping chairs, camping lights, a box of plates and cutlery, and bug nets to go over open doors and windows. The Camper x Camper website allows renters to select other options to customize their trip. Communication with staff while booking the van was easy and friendly and could be done in English, which was very convenient.

camperxcamper.com


Feature

Five of Kansai’s Best Outdoor MarketsGet outside and explore the handicrafts, fresh produce, and bric-a-brac on offer at these superb local markets.

Text: Brooke Larsen

Ashiharabashi UpmarketThe up-and-coming neighborhood of Ashiharabashi is just a short walk from Namba and even has a stop on the JR Osaka Loop Line, but chances are you’ve never been. Which is a shame because Ashiharabashi is the monthly setting of Upmarket, one of Osaka’s best-kept secrets. Upmarket is a food and craft fair that features everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade jewelry and clothing for sale. The market also has live music and food vendors. How many places in Japan can you get tacos, falafel, pizza, and curry all in one area? This magical market is one of them. It is spread across three adjacent locations – Salt Valley, the walkway outside the south exit of Ashiharabashi Station, and the Times parking lot located at its end. You could easily spend a whole day enjoying all this lively event has to offer.

» When: Every 3rd Sunday from 10:30am–4pm (except during the summer, when the market is held in the slightly cooler evenings from 4:30pm)

» Where: 1-7 Naniwahigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka » reedjp.org/up


Feature

What is this strange sensation in the air? The outside world is no longer gray and gloomy but beautiful and bright. The faces of passersby

are no longer covered in masks and scarves, but exposed and exuberant. Flowers are blooming. The temperature is bearable. It’s unsettling, and yet encouraging. People are starting to crawl out of their hibernation and into the light of day. This can only mean one thing...

Spring has arrived! One great way to enjoy Kansai in the warming weather is to head to an

outdoor market, a place where you can enjoy both the sun and shopping. If you have yet to explore any of the many great local markets, we’ve rounded up the best around for you to check out this – or any – season.

Nakanoshima Food Lover’s MarketYou might be wondering how the Nakanoshima neighborhood, home of Osaka’s urban oasis located just south of the Umeda business district, could get any more appealing. It’s already home to a gorgeous park and waterfront views, not to mention museums and art galleries galore. But what if the opportunity to purchase delectable and healthy local food was added to the mix? Enter the Food Lover’s Market, a monthly celebration of gourmet goods in one of Osaka’s most beautiful and beloved areas. Located at the Nakanoshima fishing port, about a 10 minute walk from Awaza Station, the market provides the chance to shop for locally grown food sold by people who are truly passionate about their work. The Food Lover’s Market is part of an effort to encourage buying local, so a visit is not only fun but going towards a good cause.

» When: Every 1st Saturday from 11:00 to 16:00

» Where: Nakanoshima Fishing Port, Kawaguchi 2-9, Nishi-ku, Osaka

» retown.co.jp/food_lovers

Eat Local Kobe Farmers’ MarketThe Eat Local Kobe farmers’ market takes its title very seriously. This weekly outdoor market is all about spotlighting and promoting local, DIY startups and companies in the agricultural business. The market features only food that is produced locally and fits in with the climate and culture of the Kobe area. Eat Local Kobe is held nearly every Saturday (the schedule varies a bit) and usually hosts around 40 vendors. They also hold regular events, post articles and recipes on their site (in Japanese only), and have a very active and drool-worthy Instagram account (@eatlocalkobe). It’s also located in Sannomiya in one of the city’s nicest parks.

» When: Regularly on Saturdays, but the schedule varies seasonally (check the website for details)

» Where: Higashi Yuenchi Park, 6-4 Kanocho, Chuo-ku, Kobe

» eatlocalkobe.org

Kamigamo Tezukuri-ichiKyoto is generally viewed as the hub of beautiful handmade goods, so it’s no wonder that this traditional town is home to bustling markets of all kinds. There are tons of great ones in the city, yet some of the best are off the beaten path. One of the most unique is the Kamigamo Tezukuri-ichi (or “Kamigamo Handicraft Market”), an outdoor market located on the grounds of Kamigamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site. This market features mainly craft vendors – {tezukuri} means “handmade” after all – selling all kinds of things. It’s located near the Kamo River in a very natural environment that feels miles away from the city. There is grass, trees, and a creek that runs straight through the grounds. People often bring tarps and blankets and set up picnics alongside it where they relax after browsing the 250 plus vendors’ stalls. This is truly one of the more pleasant market experiences, the likes of which only a place as historic and tranquil as Kyoto could offer.

» When: Monthly on the 4th Sunday from 9:00~16:00 (weather permitting)

» Where: Kamigamo Shrine, 3-3-9 Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita-ku, Kyoto

» kamigamo-tedukuriichi.com

Shitennoji Flea MarketOsaka might not be known for its traditional culture and temples, yet the city is home to the oldest Buddhist temple in the entire nation – Shitennoji. Just a short walk from teeming Tennoji Station and the crowded Q’s Mall is a peaceful park and ancient holy site that comes alive once a month for the Shitennoji Flea Market. A medley of vendors selling stuff ranging from used shoes to vintage hotel log books set up shop on the temple grounds. You can find many strange and wonderful things here, like ceramics, paintings, and clothes, many of them rare and unique. Shintennoji is the perfect place to find a wacky collectible to add to your store of historic Japanese goods, cheap thrift clothing, or to just spend an afternoon experiencing a traditional market atmosphere.

» When: The 21st and 22nd of each month from 8:30am–4pm » Where: Shitennoji Temple, 1-11-18 Tennoji, Tennoji-ku, Osaka


Feature

TRAVEL

A Taste of ToyamaGet off the crowded tourist trail this Golden Week and explore the natural beauty and traditional crafts of Toyama.

Text & Images: Jason Haidar

Located along the Sea of Japan coast in the Chubu Region, Toyama Prefecture is surrounded on three sides by precipi-tous mountains, with the enchanting

Toyama Bay – serving as a gateway to the Sea of Japan – on the other. Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Kanazawa, Toyama (a 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen from Kanazawa) doesn’t have the charms of a well-preserved Edo district or a famous garden like Kenroku-en. But those willing to veer off the tourist track in the direction of Toyama will discover a more authentic Japanese experience away from the crowds, rich in traditional crafts, and in an area just as abundant with natural beauty as the popular tourist spots. As many sites of interest are off the beaten path with limited public transport available, the most convenient way to explore Toyama Prefecture is by rental car.

Day 1 – Make a sake cup, visit a national treasure, see a giant BuddhaA 35-min drive from Toyama Station, Takaoka City has a more than 400-year tradition as a center of industry and traditional crafts dating back to its founding by Toshinaga Maeda, lord of the Kaga Clan, in 1609. This is proudly continued to this day at the Takaoka Regional Market Center, which is hard to miss due to the two large Buddhist statues that tower over the parking lot. Here, you will find a collection of the crafts Toyama is renowned for

all in one spot, including copper utensils, Takaoka lacquerware, and Inami wood sculptures. The highlight is the chance to make your own cop-per utensil, such as a sake cup. Take part in the process of pouring molten metal into a hollow mold, set it to cool, then sand it down to a smooth finish. The best part is that after you finish, you can bring it to a local izakaya to break it in with a free cup of local sake!

A 12-minute drive from the Takaoka Regional Market Center is one of Japan’s national treasures, Zuiryuji Temple. Dating back to 1645, the build-ing’s unique architecture was influenced by styles of the Kamakura Period, which drew from Chinese architectural styles when Zen became popular among the samurai class. While in the area, make sure to check out the Takaoka Daibutsu – one of the three great Buddha statues of Japan, along with the 13-meter-high Great Buddha statue in Kamakura and the Daibutsu in Todaiji Temple, Nara. The Takaoka Daibutsu stands an impos-ing height 15.85 meters (including the base) and weighs 65 tons. What makes it unique is that was crafted using traditional copperware techniques, which Takaoka is famed for.

If traditional crafts really are your thing, then it’s worth making a stop at the Himi City Museum while heading up the coast. They feature a perma-nent exhibition on Fujimi basket weaving, which will be instantly recognizable to those familiar with the Toka Ebisu Festival in Osaka. The wicker


baskets that hold the Lucky God have been used for a variety of purposes in Japan for ages, but now are a dying tradition.

For one of the most spectacu-lar sunrises you are likely to witness in the land of the rising sun, treat yourself to a night’s stay at the Umi Akiri Hotel on Toyama Bay. Stay in a traditional Japanese room and sample the freshest seafood delicacies the area has to offer including fresh abalone. Don’t forget to wash it all down with local Tateyama sake in your new sake cup. Whatever you do here, be sure to set your alarm for sunrise and head to the open-air onsen, where you will see an unforget-table sunrise over Toyama Bay.

Day 2 – Visit thatched-roof houses, make washi paper, take a river cruiseHeading away from the ocean and into the mountains, you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site or Gokayama Vil-lage. The name meaning “five valleys,” the village is famous for the gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses, easily recognizable form their slanted A-frame slopes. These houses draw huge crowds to Shirakawa village in Gifu Prefecture, but the differ-ence with visiting the gassho-zukuri in Gokayama Village is that you’re likely to be able to take a perfect postcard picture void of any other tourists.

After admiring Gokayama’s thatched-roof houses, make your way to the nearby Gokay-ama Washi Taiken-kan (paper-making center), where the Go-kayama washi handmade paper tradition is passed down by the local people of the area. At this

papermaking center, you can learn about this traditional craft that goes back more than 1,200 years and take a class in English where you can make your very own washi paper postcards, bookmarks, or hand fans for a true one-of-a-kind souvenir.

After your class, book in some relaxation time with a boat tour through the Sho River Gorge. Take the Shogawa River Cruise from its pick up point at Komaki Dam and then kick back and relax as you drift down the calm waters through the Shogawa River Valley. Let the large looming mountains and picturesque landscapes serve as your backdrop as you make your way to Omaki Onsen.

Standing in total isolation on in the shadow of the Shogawa River Valley, the river-side Oma-ki Onsen Kanko Ryokan is only accessible via the Shogawa Riv-erboat. After docking, you are greeted by staff in traditional kimono, and once there, all you have to do is surrender yourself to the pure secluded bliss with both indoor and outdoor baths making for an unforgettable onsen experience.

Day 3 – Discover Toyama’s wood carving traditionsThe town of Inami, which has a history of wood sculpting that dates back over 250 years, lends its name to the traditional craft of Inami woodcarving, which is recognized as a National Traditional Craft of Japan. The town was built up after disaster struck the nearby famous tem-ple of Inami Betsuin Zuisenji. The temple was destroyed by a fire in the middle of the 18th century. A master carpenter

named Sanshiro Maekawa was sent to oversee and train work-ers to rebuild the temple. Local legend links back to this as the start of the Inami wood carving tradition, which is now known all over Japan.

Inside the Inami Wood Carv-ing Composite Hall, you can marvel at a collection of over 200 masterfully crafted Inami wood carvings, both on exhibit and for sale. Admire intricately carved ranma (the panel placed above lintel between two rooms), a shishi-gashira (lion dance mask), or even a massive wooden dragon guitar worth 2 million yen! There is something for everyone. Master Carpenters here mainly use camphor tree, zelkova, and paulownia timber. From start to finish, they utilize around 200 different chisels.

If you wish to channel your inner woodworker, you can sign up for the wooden guinomi carv-ing experience where you can learn from master craftsmen how to make your own wooden smartphone speaker, postcard box, accessory case, or drink coaster, all within about an hour and using traditional Japanese carving tools. KS

Top left: Picturesque village of thatched-roof houses in Gokayama. Above: a craftsman turning a wooden bowl at Showa Aqua Memorial Park, where visitors can learn about another type of woodcraft called Shogawa.

See more photos online at kansaiscene.com


Feature

Miyako Odori都をどり

Kyoto Art Theater Shunjuza • Apr 1–24

Watch the graceful movements of geiko (geisha) from the Gion Kobu district perform at their annual spring performance Miyako Odori. With its initial performance dating back to 1872 during the Meiji Period, Miyako Odori has been a prominent part of Kyoto’s cultural history. The stunning dances, accompanied by traditional songs and music, portray the four seasons in Japan. Each performance runs for 50 minutes and there are three performances everyday from April 1 to 24. A tea ceremony held prior to the show is on offer to those with Special Seat tickets. This year, the event will take place at Kyoto Uni-versity of Art & Design’s theater Shunjuza. Reserve tickets online.

TIME: 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:10pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,600 Special Seats, ¥3,500 First Class Seats • ACCESS:

Eizan Line, Chayama Stn, 10-min walk • miyako-odori.jp

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Events Cultural

Kemari Festival蹴鞠祭

Tanzan Shrine, Nara • Apr 29

An elegant ball game that was popular among people of the court in early Japanese history takes place at the ancient Tanzan-jinja. Mountains in fresh spring verdure provide the perfect setting for this traditional event called kemari. Wearing beautiful kimono, performers kick and pass the ball gracefully. Legend has it that Prince Nakano Oe first met his vassal Kamatari Fujiwara at a kemari game in the 7th century. To commemorate this historical event, Tanzan-jinja, the shrine that houses the deity Kamatari Fujiwara, hosts the ancient ball game biannually in spring and autumn.

TIME: 11am • ADMISSION: ¥600 adults, concessions • ACCESS: JR / Kintetsu Line, Sakurai Stn, bus to Tanzan-jinja • tanzan.or.jp

Kansai Temple MarketsExplore Kansai’s wonderful monthly temple markets and grab a bargain. You’ll find a lot of antiques, including old kimono, ceramics and lacquerware, but you may also unearth some more contemporary curiosities. Perfect as souvenirs or gifts for friends and relatives back home.

» Shitennoji Temple Flea Market: Apr 21 & 22 • Shitennoji Temple Grounds, Osaka • Access: 5-min walk from Shitennojimae Stn, Tanimachi Line

» Toji Market Kyoto: Apr 21 • Toji Temple • Access: 15-min walk from JR Kyoto Stn

» Kitano Tenmangu Market: Apr 25 • Kitano Tenmangu Shrine • Access: Tenman-gu-mae bus stop

Yoga Fest KobeDesign Creative Center Kobe (KIITO), Minato no Mori Park • Apr 22

Relax your mind and body by engaging in meditative poses with fellow yoga enthusiasts. Instructors based in Kobe and Osaka will conduct 20 yoga classes and workshops such as AcroYoga (mix of partner acrobatic, Thai massage, and yoga) and Kundalini Yoga. To participate in the classes, purchase tickets at the venue; prices start at ¥2,000 for one class, ¥3,000 for two classes, and ¥4,000 for three classes. Explore the wide variety of practices and don’t forget to check out the lively market with organic and fair-trade stalls, meals made from organic produce, and yoga wear shops. The outdoor yoga class “SotoYoga” (free admission) will take place from 10:30am at the adjacent Minato no Mori Park.

TIME: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free (Class fee is varied) • ACCESS: JR Sannomiya Stn, 20-min walk • comejoinyogafest.jimdo.com

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Events Cultural

Sakura Torinuke – Cherry Blossom Viewing桜の通り抜け

Japan Mint, Osaka • Apr 11–17

The grounds of the Mint Bureau will open to the public for the sakura torinuke (cherry blossom viewing). This is one of the most iconic sites to catch cherry blossoms in Japan in spring. Every year, for only one week, the mint opens its gates for everyone to meander along the 560-meter path and admire the rows of sakura. Come and walk under the 350 cherry trees of different varieties, including the gorgeous yaezakura – double-flowered cherry blossom. The fun lasts all day and into the evening as the blossoms are lit up with atmospheric lighting, which creates a wonderful ambiance. The walk from Temmabashi station is very pleasant, where an array of food stalls can be found along the river.

TIME: 10am–9pm (9am–9pm on weekends) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Subway / Keihan Line Temmabashi Stn, 15-min walk • mint.go.jp

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Cherry Blossom Festival (Okasai)桜花祭

Hirano Shrine • Apr 10

With 400 trees and 60 different types of cherry blossoms, Hirano-jinja Shrine is one of the best places in Kyoto to appreciate the spring in full bloom. The different shades of pink and white saturate the paths and it comes as no surprise that the Shrine’s symbol is a cherry blossom flower. On this day a procession of 200 people will parade around the neighborhood starting at Hirano-jinja Shrine at 1pm. This parade called Okasai has taken place annually since 985 on April 10. For further exploration in the local area, make sure to visit Kinkakuji and Kitano Tenmangu, both within walking distance.

TIME: 10am • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Kyoto Stn, bus to Kinugasa Komae • hiranojinja.com

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Events Cultural

Osaka

NIKUFES OSAKA肉フェス

Nagai Park • Apr 27–May 6

This 10-day open-air festival at Nagai Park caters to the meat lovers Kansai. At this popular culinary event, vendors from all over the country will provide juicy dishes starting from ¥700.

TIME: 10am–10pm (11am–10pm Apr

27, May 1 & 2; 10am–9pm May 6) •

ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Midosuji

Subway Line, Nagai Stn, 2-min walk

• nikufes.jp

Naniwa Puppet Theater Festival第22回なにわ人形芝居フェスティバル

Issinji Theater Kura & Surroundings • Apr 1

A vast array of puppet shows will be on stage at Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in the Tennoji area. Entertaining performances, food and drink stalls, and more will be on the streets during the event.

TIME: 10am–3:30pm • ADMISSION:

depends on venue (1-day pass ¥700)

• ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line,

Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Stn, 5-min

walk • isshinji.net/ningyoufes

Vegan Festivalビーガン•フェスタ

Nakazaki-cho Hall • Apr 22

More than 25 booths selling vegan food, including gluten-free sweets and organically grown vegetables will be open for business. There will be live music performances, free yoga class, lectures on animal rights, and much more. Pets are not allowed.

TIME: 11am–5pm • ADMISSION:

Free • ACCESS: Subway Nakazaki-

cho Stn • facebook.com/

events/1855079541477810

Showa Era Dayどっぷり昭和町

Momogaike Park & Surroundings • Apr 29

Every year on Showa day, the Showa-cho community boasts unique attractions and activities that showcase the

good old days of the Showa era. Enjoy live performances, a market, traditional games, and more.

TIME: 10am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: Showa-cho Subway Stn,

10-min walk • blog.showacho.jp

Oimatsu Antique Festival老松古美術祭

Oimatsu-cho, Osaka • Apr 28 & 29

Oimatsu-cho hosts a biannual antique fair. An interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Western period pieces will be on sale. You can bring your collection for a free appraisal.


• ACCESS: Keihan Line, Naniwabashi

Stn, 5-min walk • oimatsu-cho.gr.jp

Kyoto

Kamo Kyokusui no En – Poetry Composing Game賀茂曲水宴

Kamigamo Shrine • Apr 8

Poets from the Reizei-ke family (a family tracing back to an aristocracy in the Heian period) wearing ceremonial kimono compose poems in the Japanese garden of Kamigamo-jinja, a World Heritage listed shrine.

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,000

(Japanese tea and sweets are

included) • ACCESS: Kitayama Subway

Stn, bus to Kamigamojinja-mae •

kamigamojinja.jp

Japanese Sword Exhibition and Sale第22回京都刀剣まつり

Miyako Messe • May 2–4

A variety of top-quality Japanese swords from all regions and time periods will be on display and for sale.

TIME: 11am–4:40pm May 2;

9:30am–4:40pm May 3; 9:30am–4pm

May 4 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

Higashiyama Subway Stn, 8-min

walk • kurayahashimoto.com/katana/

sell.html

Hyogo

Tightrope Lion Dance伊勢の森神社　梯子獅子

Isenomori Shrine • Apr 8

Wearing a heavy headdress, performers bravely dance on a tightrope crossing a 10-meter valley. Enjoy thrilling acrobatics held in a puff of falling cherry-blossom petals!

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

JR Kobe Line, Maiko Stn, bus to Tsuna

Ichinomiya IC, 10-min taxi ride •

awajishima-kanko.jp/manual/detail.

php?bid=400&lid=20&at=

Confectionary Fair第8回菓子祭前日祭

Daikai-dori, Toyooka • Apr 14

Satisfy your sweet tooth at this fair in Toyooka, known for its confectionary deity that resides in Nakashima shrine. There will be an array of confectionaries, a tea ceremony, sweets-making demonstrations, and more.

TIME: 10am–3:30pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: JR Toyooka Stn • toyooka-cci.

jp/sweetsfestival

St. Michael’s International School Bazaar

St. Michael’s International School • Apr 21

This popular annual School Bazaar at St. Michael’s International School in Kobe promises a fun-filled day with lots of international food, games, fun stalls & rummage sales, music, dance, and a raffle. Raffle tickets are on sale until 1pm on the day. Everyone is welcome.


• ACCESS: JR Motomachi Stn, 10-min

walk • smis.org

Shiba Fes第５回芝ふぇす

Naruohama Seaside Park • Apr 28 & 29

At the most southern part of Nishinomiya is Naruohama Seaside Park that provides a 4,500-meter-squared grassed area adjacent to the sea. Enjoy delicious food and music in the Flower Garden and Green

Area while watching the yachts sail by.


• ACCESS: Hanshin Koshien Stn, 20

min bus to Rizo Naruohama Stop •

naruohama-park.com

Nara

Jimmusai Festival春の神武祭

Kashiharajingu & Surroundings • Apr 7 & 8

This annual spring festival is held in honor of the First Emperor of Japan, who is enshrined in Kashihara Shrine. Included in the line-up are rakugo performance, a grand street parade, kids workshops, traditional Japanese cultural acts, live music shows and street market.

TIME: 10am–4pm Apr 7; 10am–4:30pm

Apr 8 • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

Kintetsu Line, Kashiharajingu-mae Stn,

5-min walk • kashihara-kanko.or.jp/

jinmusai

Heijokyo Tenpyo Sai – Heijokyo Festival平城京天平祭　2018

Heijokyo Palace Site • May 3–5

Nara hosts a visual spectacle celebrating its more than 1,300 years of history. With traditional ceremonies, an array of activities to participate in, and a variety of different entertainment, this event showcases the ancient cultural life of the Japanese.

TIME: 10am–4:30pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: Kintetsu Line, Yamatosaidaiji

Stn, 15-min walk • tenpyosai.jp

Shiga

Biwako Jazz FestivalびわこJAZZ東近江 2018

Yokaichi Stn & Surroundings • Apr 29 & 30

More than 200 musicians and performers will gather and perform at approximately 40 venues in the city of Yokaichi including Yokaichi Station, the city hall, and the streets in between. This year marks the 10th year of the event and will

coincide with International Jazz Day (Apr 30).

TIME: 11am (end time depends on

venue) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

Ohmi Yokaichi Line, Yokaichi Stn, bus to

Shiyakusyo-mae • biwako-jazzfes.com

Pottery in Shigaraki第13回信楽窯元散策路　ぶらり窯元めぐり

Shigaraki-cho (Nagano-Chiku Area) • Apr 6–8

Renowned for tanuki (raccoon dog) earthenware, Shigaraki hosts a popular event where about 20 local pottery stores are open to tourists. Visit their studios, try your hand on a potter’s wheel, and enjoy refreshments at galleries showcasing both modern and traditional ceramics.

TIME: 9am–5pm • ADMISSION: Free •

ACCESS: Shigarakikogen-Tetsudo Line,

Shigaraki Stn, 10-min walk • shigaraki-

wa.jp

Nagahama Hikiyama Festival長浜曳山まつり

Nagahama Hachimangu & Surroundings • Apr 13–16

Enjoy the traditional art of kabuki being performed on floats that are themselves works of art; beautifully decorated with antique tapestries and adorned with elaborate carvings.

TIME: Depends on date • ADMISSION:

Free • ACCESS: JR Nagahama Stn, 10-

min walk • nagahama-hikiyama.or.jp

Wakayama

Yuasa Andon Art Festa 2018ゆあさ行灯アート展 2018

Yuasa-cho, Wakayama • Apr 29–May 3

Over 500 lamps made by artists from all over the country adorn the town of Yuasa, known for the beautifully

preserved, traditional samurai-style buildings. Atmospheric musical performances are sure to transport visitors to a bygone era.

TIME: 6:30pm–9pm • ADMISSION: Free

• ACCESS: JR Yuasa Stn, 10-min walk •

yuasa-machinami.sakura.ne.jp

Dojojieshiki道成寺会式

Dojoji Temple & Surroundings • Apr 27

Legend has it that a girl named Kiyohime turned into a serpent and chased after her beloved monk, Anchin. To commemorate this legend, watch the Janjaka Odori (snake dance) as a 25-meter man-made snake runs up a flight of stairs!

TIME: 1pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

JR Dojoji Stn, 7-min walk • dojoji.com

Wakayama Magical Music Tour第13回わかやまマジカルミュージックツアー

Wakayama Castle Park and Surroundings • Apr 22

Notice that the second kanji character of Wakayama (和歌山) means “song”? Experience Wakayama’s vibrant music culture through the various performances that will take place at Wakayama Castle Park, museums, live houses, and on the streets. Around 200 artists will be showcasing their talents.

TIME: 10:30am–11pm (depends on event

location) • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS:

Nankai Line, Wakayamashi Stn, 10-min

walk • magical.wakayamashi.jp

Event organiser?List your event online for free at Kansaifinder.com


Events Cultural

Shoryoe – Memorial Service for Prince Shotoku聖霊会舞楽大法要

Shitennoji Temple, Osaka • Apr 22

This event is an excellent opportunity to appreciate bugaku, a great classical performing art. The performance commemorates the revered ancient figure, Prince Shotoku, who erected this important temple in the 6th century. A skilled troupe of dancers trained in bugaku, which has been designated a nationally important cultural asset, will put on a performance that has been carried out in the Japanese imperial courts for over 1,200 years. Watch the graceful movements of young boys in butterfly costumes and other dancers wearing elaborate masks. Beautiful ornaments shaped like red spider lilies will decorate the stage adding to the ambiance of this traditional Japanese art. The original version of the lion dance will be sure to delight the crowd.

TIME: 12:30pm • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Subway Stn, 5-min walk • shitennoji.or.jp

APR

22

Yoshiyuki Ooe “Bōzu Bones Born”

Tezukayama Gallery

Yoshiyuki Ooe is a native Osakan sculptor. His work recaptures recognizable motifs in unfamiliar contexts to connect viewers with renewed perceptions and interpretations. Ooe has gained popularity on the international spectrum in recent years, most notably in the UK, where he was featured in the London Times. In the coming exhibition, Ooe will present works titled Souvenir and Souvenir Jacket, where he continues the use of schoolboys in their uniforms. Showcasing the unique view of Ooe, the boys are wrapped around by a snake carrying skulls, playing a game of trains, and wearing skulls masks. These motifs were inspired by the patterns of Japanese embroidered bomber jackets, which were popular items for American soldiers to take home during the post-war occupation – hence the titles.

Yoshiyuki Ooe Exhibition • Until Apr 28 • OPEN: 12pm–7pm • CLOSED: Sun, Mon & holidays • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Namba Stn, 10-min walk • TEL:

06-6534-3993 • tezukayama-g.com/en

The Empire of Imagination and Science of Rudolph II

Sagawa Art Museum

Rudolph II was Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia, and Archduke of Austria during the 16th and 17th centuries. He was also known as an influential collector and patron of Northern Mannerist art, often reported to sit and stare for hours on end at new acquisitions. He contributed to the European art scene by gathering, commissioning, and carefully cataloging classical and contemporary paintings, writings, crafts, artifacts, flora, and fauna from around the world throughout the course of his life. This exhibition presents work from Giuseppe Arcimboldo and other artists under the patronage of Rudolph II. Guests are invited to this time-honored selection of works from the one of the most impressive European art collections in all of history.

Rudolph II Collection Exhibition • Until May 27 • OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: JR Biwako line, Moriyama Stn, bus to Sagawa Bijutsukan-mae stop • TEL: 077-585-7800 • sagawa-artmuseum.or.jp/en

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The 150th Anniversary of the Meiji Period : Making and Designing Meiji Arts and Crafts

The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto

During the Meiji Restoration as the Japanese political system was being consolidated under the new emperor, the government led numerous efforts to promote domestic industries and exports abroad, sparking an increased international interest in Japanese art. In Kansai, part of this movement involved the establishment of the Kyoto Prefectural School of Painting, where students received practical training and instruction from diverse Nihon-ga painters seeking to ensure that traditional classical designs were adapted to meet contemporary demands. In this exhibition, guests have an opportunity to examine Meiji crafts alongside a carefully selected series of Nihon-ga pieces representing Japanese aesthetic sensibilities during this transition into the modern age.

Meiji Arts and Crafts Exhibition • Until May 20 • OPEN:

9:30am–5pm (until 8pm Fri & Sat, last entry 30mins before closing) • CLOSED: Mon (except Apr 30) • ADMISSION: ¥1000 • ACCESS: Tozai subway line, Higashiyama Stn, 10-min walk • TEL:

075-761-4111 • momak.go.jp/English/index.html


Events Art

Osaka

A Tower of the Sun Collection: Expo ’70 Ethnological Mission

National Museum of Ethnology • Until May 29

The 60s and 70s represented a time of unprecedented global development. Throughout this period, the Japan Expo ’70 World Ethnological Materials Research & Collection Mission collected historical works and specimens from all around the world. This exhibition is comprised of a col-lection of these valuable pieces.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Wed •

ADMISSION: ¥420 • ACCESS: Osaka

Monorail, Banpaku Kinenkoen Stn, 15-

min walk • TEL: 06-6876-2151 • minpaku.

ac.jp/english

Ohirome: New Acquisitions Exhibition

Osaka Museum of History • Until May 7

Since its founding, the Osaka Museum of History has encour-aged citizens to cultivate a deep understanding of the city’s history in order to interpret the present more fully. This exhibi-tion displays 40 new pieces recently donated to the museum by local art lovers.

OPEN: 9:30am–5pm • CLOSED: Tues •

ADMISSION: ¥600 • ACCESS: Tanimachi

subway line, Tanimachi Yon-chome

Stn, 1-min walk • TEL: 06-6946-5728 •

mus-his.city.osaka.jp/eng/index.html

Kyoto

Naturally White Ivory Carving

Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum • Until May 20

Ivory has been used as a rare and expensive material for carving luxury crafts throughout Asian and European history. This exhibition presents a series of carved white ivory crafts imported from overseas during the Meiji era.

OPEN: 10am–5pm • CLOSED: Mon & Tues

• ADMISSION: ¥800 • ACCESS: JR Kyoto

Stn, bus to Kiyomizumichi Stop, 5-min

walk • TEL: 075-532-4270 • sannenzaka-

museum.co.jp/index_e.html

Turner and the Poetics of Landscape

The Museum of Kyoto • Until Apr 15

Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851) was a classical master of landscape painting known for his depictions of roll-ing countrysides and ethereal seascapes. This exhibition in-cludes prints, oil paintings, and watercolors by Turner, brought together from a handful of Brit-ish and Japanese institutions.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon •

ADMISSION: ¥1,500 • ACCESS: Karasuma

subway line, Karasuma Oike Stn, 3-min

walk • TEL: 075-222-0888 • bunpaku.

or.jp/en

Hyogo

Yokoo Tadanori: Journey to the New World

Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art • Until May 6

This exhibition presents a num-ber of works by graphic designer Yokoo Tadanori, in which he explores themes related to death and the afterlife. Examine the world in which we live through the lens of existence in the great beyond.

OPEN: 10am–6pm • CLOSED: Mon •

ADMISSION: ¥700 • ACCESS: Hankyu

line, Oji Koen Stn, 6-min walk • TEL:

078-855-5602 • ytmoca.jp/english/

en_guidance.html

Yuji Hombori “Passion – Mihotoke”

Gallery Yamaki Fine Art • Until May 12

Yuji Hombori creates large and small-scale sculptures and installations of Buddhist statues and structures using ordinary materials such as cardboard and wrapping paper. This exhibi-tion displays Hombori’s latest creations, including a new piece measuring over two meters in height.

OPEN: 11am–7pm • CLOSED: Sun & Mon •

ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: JR Kobe and

Hanshin lines, Motomachi Stn, 1-min

walk • TEL: 078-391-1666 • gyfa.co.jp/en

Hiroko Koshino “Kira − Brilliance of the East and West”

KH Gallery Ashiya

This exhibition displays a mixture of paintings and fashion from artist and designer Hiroko Koshino, who seeks to create a dazzling balance of Eastern and Western cultural aesthetics in her works. Koshino strives to bring a sense of modern international beauty and flare to traditional Japanese culture, basing certain elements of her style on artistic features prominent in foreign countries in different areas around the globe. The “ki” in “Kira” refers to twill weave, a type of textile weave with a diagonal pattern, while “ra” refers to thin-weave silk fabric. The word in its entirety represents the beauty of these ornately colored fashion items and the appealing aura of the elegant people who wear them.

Hiroko Koshino Exhibition • Until Aug 10 • OPEN: 11am-4pm (Online booking only, except Sundays) • CLOSED: Wed • ADMISSION: Free • ACCESS: Ashiya Stn, bus to Okuike stop • kh-gallery.com/en/ashiya

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Events Art

FOODSPOTTING

Devour delectable drinks and desserts at these creative, retro Nakazakicho retreats.

Text & Images: Celia Polkinghorne

Cafe Muniカフェムニ

The wonderful thing about Nakazakicho is that many café owners have come to the area not just to open a café, but to create a unique artistic space, or a haven of relaxation. Cafe Muni, with its hanging pot plants, bunches of dried flowers, and mosaic lanterns is one of these peaceful sanctuaries. The café is in one of the oldest nagaya (traditional Japanese wooden buildings) in the area – it is 160 years old. Owner, Yoko Tatera, who opened shop in 2009, lovingly bakes homemade whole-wheat sourdough bread to serve with her tasty lunch sets of spicy beans, minced meats, salads, and pasta dishes with homemade sauces for ¥860. One of the best parts about visiting Cafe Muni is hanging out with Yoko’s little dog Komuni-chan, who is the café’s unofficial mascot and who can be seen sprawled out on the shop’s front doorstep on any given day. Yoko makes one of the best chai teas in town, flavored with natural kibisato (mineral sugar), and both her creamy tiramisu and her matcha and white chocolate cake (¥410) are truly worth making a special trip for.

OPEN: 12pm–9pm • Price RANGE: ¥410–¥4,000 • ADDRESS: 4-1-14 Nakazaki-nishi, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 5-min walk • TEL:

06-6371-7368 • FACEBOOK: Cafe Muni

ARABIQ珈琲舎•書肆アラビク

In our modern world of smartphones and e-readers, sometimes we miss the sensation of holding a real book in our hands and thumbing through its pages. When this sentiment hits, there’s no better place to go than to ARABIQ Books & Gallery Cafe – a fixture on the Nakazakicho scene since 2007. Founded and run by former town planner Ken Moriuchi, this haven of coffee, art, and literature is named after a bar in the well-known Japanese mystery novel Kyomu-eno-kumotsu, one of the country’s most famous detective stories. With its warm, cosy interior lined with tall, disheveled bookshelves, retro chandeliers, and the latest art exhibit which changes once or twice a month, it is the perfect place to lose yourself in a good book or catch up with an old friend. You can’t go past the chocolate cake or the tiramisu (¥450), and the drinks menu is almost guaranteed to have something you’ve never heard of or tasted. Ken recommends the Fieker (coffee with Austrian rum) or the Maria-Theresa (coffee with orange liqueur, whipped cream and hard candy sprinkled on top), apparently a current favorite on Instagram!

OPEN: 1:30pm–9pm • Price RANGE:

¥450–¥2,000 • ADDRESS: 3-4-14 Nakazaki, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 3-min walk • TEL:

06-7500-5519 • arabiq.net

Taiyou No Tou太陽ノ塔

For one of the most divine cheesecake experiences in Osaka, look no further than kitsch but comfy Taiyou No Tou. Cake sets run for ¥1,000 here and include your choice of tea or coffee with one of their delectable creations, such as the creamy cheesecake with homemade berry and custard sauce, or the dreamy chocolate ganache tiramisu tart. If you’re craving an early lunch, go for the Obanzai lunch set – a nutritious plate of three side dishes of your choice with brown rice and miso soup. The free WiFi here is a plus for those without a connection or for anyone looking to get a little work done, but if you’re having a connection-free day, the interior of Taiyou No To is more than enough to keep you intrigued with its mismatching hanging lights, retro furniture, and unique crockery. Near the entrance, stacked next to a collection of flyers and postcards, you can find free foldout maps of Nakazakicho, and the friendly staff members are more than happy to recommend places to check out in the neighborhood. Refreshingly, like many of the cafés in the area, this one is completely non-smoking.

OPEN: 9am–10pm • Price RANGE: ¥1,000–¥2,500 • ADDRESS: 1-4-20 Nakazaki, Kita-ku • ACCESS: Tanimachi Subway Line, Nakazakicho Stn, Exit 2, 1-min walk • TEL:

06-6312-4305 • taiyounotou.com

Need more dining options?Check kansaifinder.com/places to search all of our food and drink spots


Food & Drink / GREAT PLACES TO EAT

Apr / May

Rock & Pop

Belinda Carlisle

Apr 2

American pop vocalist

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Pop •

6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥8,800/¥9,800 • TEL:

06-6342-7722

Mount EerieExperimental US songwriter Phil Elverum

Apr 8

Urbanguild, Kyoto • Experimental •

7:30pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • TEL: 06-

6357-4400

Apr 9

Guggenheim House, Kobe •

Experimental • 7pm • ¥4,500/¥5,000 •

TEL: 078-220-3924

Royal Hunt

Apr 17

Danish progressive-metal band since 1989

Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm •

¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Czecho No Republic

Apr 20

Japanese pop-rock band

Club Quattro, Osaka • Rock-pop • 7pm •

¥3,800 • TEL: 06-6882-1224

CTA featuring Danny Seraphine, Bill Champlin, and Donnie Dacus

Apr 20

Chicago Transit Authority ft. Danny Seraphine, Bill Champlin, and Donnie Dacus

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • AOR •

6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥11,000/¥12,000 •

TEL: 06-6342-7722

Namie Amuro

Apr 21, 22, 25 & 26

Japanese pop idol vocalist final tour

Kyocera dome, Osaka • Pop • 6pm Apr

21; 5pm Apr 22; 6:30pm Apr 25 & 26 •

¥9,800 • TEL: 0570-200-610

Orange Range

Apr 24

Japanese hip-hop-rock band

Big Cat, Osaka • Hip-hop-rock • 7pm •

¥4,800/¥5,800 • TEL: 0570-200-888

Jake BuggSolo acoustic artist from England

Apr 24

Club Quattro, Osaka • Singer-songwriter

• 7:30pm • ¥6,300 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

Apr 25

Metro, Kyoto • Singer-songwriter •

6:30pm • ¥6,300 • TEL: 075-752-4765

Fall Out Boy

Apr 24 & 25

American rock band formed 2001

Zepp Osaka Bayside, Osaka • Rock

• 7pm • ¥7,500/¥8,500 • TEL: 0570-

200-888

Christopher Cross

Apr 24 & 25

American singer-songwriter

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Singer-

songwriter • AOR • 6:30pm/9:30pm •

¥11,000/¥12,000 • TEL: 06-6342-7722

Dir En Grey

Apr 25 & 26

Japanese visual-kei rock band

Namba Hatch, Osaka • Rock • 7pm •

¥6,500 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Phoenix

Apr 26

Jake BuggBorn Jake Edwin Charles Kennedy, English singer-songwriter Jake Bugg got his first break as a 17-year-old. After submitting material, he was selected to appear on the BBC Introducing stage at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival. Signing with Mercury records soon after, Bugg released his debut self-titled album in 2012, which was described by the UK music magazine CLASH as “precocious talent fusing retro folk with blister-ing contemporary riffs.”

Jumping forward to the present, Bugg’s latest release is his fourth studio album, Hearts That Strain. On the album, Bugg said, “This time around I just wanted to write tunes and record them with great musicians.” Of the lyrical content, he added, “I’m singing about my life, not telling anybody what they should be doing with theirs.”

Jake Bugg comes to Japan for three dates (Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo) after a UK acoustic tour and dates in the US, Europe, and Australia.

APR

24APR

25

Solo acoustic tour from English musician • Singer-songwriter • ¥6,300 • Apr 24th – 7:30pm, Club Quattro, Osaka (TEL: 06-6311-8111); Apr 25th – 6:30pm, Metro, Kyoto (TEL: 075-752-4765)


Events Live Music


Events Live Music

Hermeto PascoalDescribed as a beloved figure in Brazilian music, 81-year-old Hermeto Pascoal is a composer, producer, and multi-instrumen-talist. Starting out in a rural area of Brazil learning accordion from his father, he went on to make his first recording appearances in 1964. Seven years later, he played on Miles Davis’s album Live-Evil, after which Davis called him “the most impressive musician in the world.” Since the late 1970s, Pascoal has mainly led his own bands and due to some of his unconventional ways of making music (using teapots, toys, and cups partially submerged in water!), he earned the nickname “o Bruxo” (“the Sorcerer”).

Last year, he released the album Natureza Universal, which was described by Dusty Groove as “a jazz-based arrangement done with all the dynamic energy of Hermeto’s earlier music, tuned a bit towards the Duke Ellington or Gil Evans worlds of tone and colour.”

Brazilian jazz multi-instrumentalist • Shangri-La, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm • ¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 03-5458-7688

Mount Eerie

Apr 8

Mount Eerie is the name used by US songwriter, musician, and producer Phil Elverum. Originally a member of the band The Microphones, Elverum began his current project 15 years ago in 2003. Described as a mix of ambient, experimental, indie-folk rock, he has just released his ninth studio album titled Now Only. The six-track album includes an 11-minute composition called Distortion, which begins basically with that before the lyrics and acoustic guitar sets the tone for a very open, personal, and tragic piece of music. Elverum is a prolific producer of music and every release has received considerable critical acclaim. Mount Eerie performs five shows in Japan on the back of sold-out performances in the US.

Experimental US songwriter Phil Elverum • Indie • ¥4,500/¥5,000 • Apr 8th – 7:30pm, Urban Guild, Kyoto (075-212-1125); Apr 9th – 7pm, Guggenheim House, Kobe (078-220-3924)

Harry Styles

May 10

Releasing his debut single Sign of the Times (a number-one hit in the UK) last year, One Direction’s Harry Styles is now a solo artist. The singer, songwriter, and actor got his breakthrough after entering a UK television talent show (The X Factor). From there, the boy vocal group One Direction was born. After going on a hiatus, which looks to be possibly permanent, all the members have released solo material.

Styles’ material seems to be drifting away from One Direction’s commercial pop tracks and seems to be more adult themed. When questioned on the subject of pop stars taking the rock route in an interview last year, Styles said, “I really wanted to make an album that I wanted to listen to.”

One Direction singer solo tour• Pop-rock • World Memorial Hall, Kobe • 6:30pm • ¥TBA • TEL: 0570-200-888

MAY

11

Live Music

French indie-pop band

Zepp Osaka Bayside, Osaka • Indie

• 7pm • ¥7,000/¥7,500 • TEL: 0570-

200-888

Four Tet

Apr 26

English experimental musician Kieran Hebden

Club Quattro, Osaka • Experimental •

8pm • ¥6,000 • TEL: 06-6535-5569

Scandal

Apr 27 & 28

Japanese pop-rock girl band

Orix Theater, Osaka • Rock • 7pm

Apr 27; 5pm Apr 28 • ¥5,800 • TEL:

06-6357-4400

Bridear

Apr 28

Japanese heavy-rock five-piece band

Shangri-La, Osaka • Heavy Rock • 6pm

• ¥3,500 • TEL: 057-0200-9999

Night of 1,000 Eyes ft. Rhyming Gaijin, Shayne Bowden, Nessie, and more

Apr 28

Mixed genre artists including rap, beats, African, folk

Pika Space, Osaka • Mixed Genre •

6:30pm • ¥1,500 • TEL: 06-556-0002

Cradle of Filth

May 2

English extreme-metal band

Club Quattro, Osaka • Metal • 7pm •

¥7,500 • TEL: 06-6311-8111

The Neatbeats

May 3

Japanese retro-rock outfit since 1997

Varit, Kobe • Rock • 6pm • ¥3,500 •

TEL: 078-392-6655

Koda Kumi

May 5 & 6

Japanese R&B vocalist

Zepp, Osaka • R&B • 7pm Apr 5;

1:30pm Apr 6 • ¥6,800/¥10,000 • TEL:

06-6341-3525

The Tomboys/Kinoko Hotel

May 10

Two Japanese female Group Sounds bands

Live Square 2nd Line, Osaka • Group

Sounds • 7pm • ¥2,500/¥3,500 • TEL:

06-6453-1985

Harry Styles

May 10

One Direction English vocalist

World Memorial Hall, Kobe • Pop

• 6:30pm • ¥10,000/¥18,000 • TEL:

0570-200-888

Sex Machineguns

May 13

Japanese metal trio

Muse, Esaka • Metal • 6pm • ¥4,000 •

TEL: 03-3475-9999

May’s

May 13

Japanese R&B duo Kitagari Maiko and Kawai Junichi

Shangri-La, Osaka • R&B • 4pm •

¥4,200 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

The 50 Kaintez

May 15

High-energy garage-punk trio

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Rock • 6pm •

¥3,800/¥4,000 • TEL: 06-6357-4400

Nakamura Emi

May 15

Japanese pop vocalist

Taku Taku, Kyoto • Pop • 7pm • ¥4,000

• TEL: 06-6882-1224

The Muggles

Every Fri & Sat

Mellow ballads, classic rock and rock n roll from Osaka based jamming band

OSAKA

Monthly Apartment, GuesthouseNo Key Money, No Deposit, No Guarantor!

IzumimachiMay�ower House Apartment

All Room with PrivateBathroom ¥48,000~

¥48,000~(With Bathroom, Toilet & Kitchen)¥20,000~(Shared Bathroom Toilet & Kitchen)+Utilities Service charge ¥10,000+Deposit (Refundable) ¥10,000

Fully furnished all rooms 10-12 matsinclude kitchen, bathroom with bathtub,TV, A/C, fridge & private balcony.

• Free internet + CATV in lounge• Hotel type lounge 24h open• Internet access in each room• 5-min walk from Matsuyamachi and Tanimachi 4 chome subway stations• 2-1-15, Izumimachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka

www.roppongi-may�ower-house.comToll Free: 0120-880-456 Cell:080-5436-1777

MB

Bath&

Toilet

10~12 mats( 28m2 )C

L

Balcony

玄関

Woodstock Café, Ashiya • Group

Sounds • Free Admission (¥2,000 for 2

drinks + snack) • TEL: 079-734-1044

Jazz & Blues

Ikarus

Apr 11

Swiss evocative jazz group

Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7:30pm •

¥2,800/¥3,500 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Gene Shimosato & Fractal Attraction

Apr 12

Japanese-American jazz guitarist

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Jazz •

7:30pm/9pm • ¥5,000/¥5,500 • TEL:

06-6342-5821

Killing Spree

Apr 16

Saxophonist and composer Mat-thieu Metzger

Urbanguild, Kyoto • Experimental jazz •

7pm • ¥2,000/¥2,400 • TEL: 075-212-1125

Sarah Maeda

May 2

Japanese funk saxophonist

Mister Kelly’s, Osaka • Funk •

7:30pm/9pm • ¥4,000/¥4,500 • TEL:

06-6342-5821

Hermeto Pascoal

May 11

Brazilian jazz multi-instrumen-talist

Shangri-La, Osaka • Jazz • 7:30pm •

¥8,500/¥9,500 • TEL: 03-5458-7688

Monday Michiru

May 9

Japanese-American actress, singer, and songwriter

Billboard Live OSAKA, Osaka • Acid

Jazz • 6:30pm/9:30pm • ¥5,900/¥6,900

• TEL: 06-6342-7722

Adam Baldych & Helge Lien

May 15

European piano and violin duo

Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Jazz • 7:30pm •

¥4,000/¥5,000 • TEL: 075-241-0446

Classical

Ikuko Kawai

Apr 14

Classically trained Japanese violinist

Billboard live OSAKA, Osaka • Classical

• 4pm/7pm • ¥6,900/¥7,900 • TEL:

06-6342-7722

World

Afropolitan – The Band

Apr 14

Four Japan-based African musicians from differing backgrounds and cultures, combine together to perform the foot-tapping rhythms and infectious beats of traditional African music.

Cafe Bohemia, Osaka • TIME: 12–2pm

• ACCESS: 3min walk from exit 7 of

Midosuji Subway Shinsaibashi Stn •

ENTRY: ¥3,500 • osaka-bohemia.com

INTERVIEW

IkarusThe members of IKARUS take their inspiration

from a mix of math rock, free jazz, electronica,

and pop. They call their sound ‘evocative jazz.’ KS

spoke with drummer Ramon Oliveras from the

Swiss outfit about their second trip to Japan.

Could you tell us a little about how the band came together?

We have two singers, Anna Hirsch and Andreas Lareida, the rhythm section formed by pianist Lucca Fries, double-bass player Mo Meyer, and myself as drummer, bandleader, and composer. Ikarus was formed five years ago for my graduation concert from the Zurich University of the Arts, where I studied with my favorite bass player Mo Meyer. The rest of the members are from the Swiss cities Bern, Basel, and Winterthur and I chose them for their unique musicality in the beginning. But because of our extensive touring through Europe and Japan, we have now also formed a deep friendship with one another.

How would you describe the Ikarus sound and live performance to a new audience?

The Ikarus sound is a beautiful tension created between a Nordic European darkness and a sweltering, equatorial color palette. It’s something between the winter pensiveness and melancholia in Hokkaido and the feeling you might get from spending a day in Okinawa. Technically speaking, Ikarus is a volatile mixture that emphasizes polyrhythms, sensual singing, and energetic improvisation. So, for me as a drummer and composer, I’m very

APR

11

much inspired by classical music, experimental pop, and left-field electronics (e.g. Morton Feldman, Meshuggah, The Knife, and Craig Taborn) and I channel their influence in the context of this contemporary jazz formation.

What are you looking forward to on your second trip to Japan?

We’re really looking forward to seeing all the very nice people again who came to our concerts last year. And of course, meeting new ones who we can get excited about our music. We are also especially looking forward to the fantastic Japanese cuisine and to all the other great things you can experience only in Japanese culture.

Swiss evocative-free-jazz group • Live Spot Rag, Kyoto • Free-jazz • 7:30pm • ¥2,800/¥3,500 • TEL: 075-241-0446


Events Live Music

Adam LoungeAdam Lounge just celebrated its first anniversary last month and has invited Mesto, the 18-year-old DJ from the Netherlands, to perform for EDM fans. Melle Stomp, aka Mesto, started his career in 2014 as a 15-year-old releasing his first single Go!”, a collaboration with another Dutch DJ Alex Ranzino, as a free download. Since then, he has continued to release remixes and his own tracks. He worked with the future house pioneer Mike Williams on a bootleg of Ummet Ozcan’s Raise Your Hands and released solo works such as Tokyo, and Rio. He col-laborated with renowned house DJs Martin Garrix and Justin Mylo on the single Bouncybob (2015), which earned him worldwide recognition. In Oc-tober 2016, Mesto signed a contract with Spinnin’ Records and he played at the Amsterdam Dance Event. This month, he comes to Japan for the first time. Besides Mesto, DJ Kura from Portugal and

April

1 (Sun)

TriangleSuncaqha feat. Spongebob Squrewave & Phatworld (Break-core/Jungle/Drum’n’Bass)

• ACTS: Spongebob Squrewave,

Phatworld, Ka4u, Genick, Shaka-itchi,

Monogotz a.k.a MC Nmdb, Yanmah +

more • OPEN: 3pm-10pm • ADMISSION:

¥3,500/1D (ADV: ¥3,000/1D) • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6212-2264 •

triangleosaka.com

6 (Fri)

AlzarPulse Code Modulation feat. Nick Reverse (Techno)

• DJS: Nick Reverse, Ryu.K, Momo,

Eisen, Yohei + more • OPEN: 10pm

• ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (ADV:

¥2,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL:

090-6960-8527 • alzar.jp

CircusMove D 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Downtempo/Techno)

• DJS: Move D, Kabuto + more • OPEN:

10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D (ADV:


06-6241-3822 • circus-osaka.com

MetroNebula – Guest DJ: Compuma, Toshio ‘Bing’ Kajiwara – (Techno)

• DJS: Compuma, Toshio ‘Bing’

Kajiwara, Kazuma, Podd • OPEN: 10pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • WHERE: Kyoto •

TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

7 (Sat)

AlzarAlzar Saturdays feat.DJ Ogawa (House/Tech House)

• DJS: Teruhiko Ogawa, Senda, Nao

Nomura, Taiki + more • OPEN: 10pm

• ADMISSION: ¥3,000/1D (ADV:


090-6960-8527• alzar.jp

CircusLicaxxx × DJ Ageishi (House)

• DJS: Licaxxx, Ageishi • OPEN: 11pm •

ADMISSION: ¥1,600/1D (W/the ticket

stub of Return at Namba Hatch : ¥600)

• WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6241-

3822 • circus-osaka.com

JaaiNe: magari presents Proxeeus (Goa Trance)

• LIVE: Proxeeus • DJS: TBA • OPEN:

10pm • ADMISSION: ¥ 2,000/1D •

WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 080-3037-

3214 • iflyer.tv/ja/Bar-JAAI

JouleTakkyu Ishino – Return Another Edition – (Techno)

•DJS: Takkyu Ishino, Yoshinori

Sunahara, Monashee, Kozee + more •

OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D

(W/the ticket stub of Return at Namba

HATCH: ¥500) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi •

TEL: 06-6214-1223 • club-joule.com

Namba HatchReturn (Electronic)

• LIVE: Ryoji Ikeda , Radiq a.k.a.

Yoshihiro Hanno, D.a.n, Yahyel • DJS:

Aoki Takamasa, Sunahara Yoshinori,

Yuri Urano a.k.a. Yullippe OPEN:

6pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥5,300/1D •

WHERE: Namba • TEL: 06-6535-5569 •

smashwest.com

Sun HallRing UFO Club – Twilight Zone – (Psychedelic Trance/Tech Trance)

• DJS: Kihira Naoki, Tez, Electronix, Ono

+ Singo, Chika, Daichi + more • OPEN:

11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • TEL: • 06-6213-7077 •

sunhall.jp

TriangleTribal Dance Floor – Radikal Moodz First Japan Tour in Osaka (Psychedelic Trance)

• ACTS: Radikal Moodz, Show-Hey,

Buzz, Yuki, Lazzzy a.k.a Sho Urata,

Poo-chii, Stick, Hofmann, + more • OPEN:

10pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,500/1D • WHERE:


triangleosaka.com

8 (Sun)

CircusNewtone Records presents Brane (Experimental)

• LIVE: Beatrice Dillon, Eye, Ypy • DJS:

Ooshima Shigeru, Koji Sawamura +

more • OPEN: 6pm–11pm • ADMISSION:

¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE:


circus-osaka.com

10 (Tue)

G.R.Cafe TerraceTuesday Deep Dubstep Lounge vol.1 (Deep Dubstep)

APR

8

Jonas Blue from the UK are also playing in Kansai. It’s going to be an exciting month for EDM fans.

Mesto Japan Tour 2018 at Adam Lounge Hosted by Naoki Katayama (Future House/EDM) • DJS: Mesto, Wtp, Yuichi, Mia + more • OPEN: 3pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥4,700/1D (ADV: ¥4,000/1D) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL: 0120-170-317 • adam-lounge.com


Events Club

• DJS: Shohei, Awa + more • OPEN:

8pm-11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE:


grcafeterrace.com

12 (Thu)

Socore FactorySocore Factory presents Internal –Touch the Sky Sound System (Techno/House/Getto Tech)

• DJS: Altz, Yosuke Yukimatsu, Fulltono

• OPEN: 7:30pm-12:00am • ADMISSION:

¥1,500/1D • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL:

06-6567-9852 • socorefactory.com

13 (Fri)

AlzarYoung Marco supported by Sat-telite (House/Techno)

• DJS: Mightwhales, Koichiro Murakawa,

Yusuke Sadaoka • OPEN: 10pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D)


8527• alzar.jp

AtmosphäreEvolve 23 (Industrial/Alternative Hip Hop)

• LIVE: Evolve 23 • DJS: Ka4u, Distest,

Hamatai, Aaakkkiii • OPEN: 8pm •

ADMISSION: ¥1,000/1D • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • FACEBOOK: atmosphäre

CircusMargaret Dygas 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Minimal/Techno)

• DJS: Margaret Dyagas, Soichi, Fumi

+ more • OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION:

¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D) • WHERE:


circus-osaka.com

Compufunk RecordsConnected Underground – Daniel M. (Separate Skills) from Frankfurt am Mai – (Deep Tech/ Tech House)

• DJS: Daniel M, Ryoma Sasaki, Naohirio

Tomisawa, Ouchi-S, Koichi + more •

OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥1,500/1D •

WHERE: Kitahama • TEL: 06-6314-6541 •

compufunk.com

Noon + Cafe“Vinyl Session” vol. 91 – Visual & Vinyl Session – (Jazz/Crossover/Deep House)

• LIVE: Shu Suzuki • DJS: Aida, Daisuke

Matsumoto, Shinji Okano, Shigema,

Yohei Okamoto + more • OPEN: 9pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (FOREIGNERS:

¥500/1D) • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-

6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

TriangleNew Party – Jameson Night – (Drum’n’Bass/Hardcore Techno/Bass)

• ACTS: Hayabusa, Index, Matres,

Urameshi Yuko, Yanmah, + more •

OPEN: 10pm • ADMISSION: ¥2,400/1D

(ADV: ¥1,900/1D, FOREIGNERS: Free) •


2264 • triangleosaka.com

14 (Sat)

AlzarWols feat. DJ Nobu (Techno)

• DJS: Nobu, Takaaki Itoh, Loe • OPEN:

11pm • ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV:

¥2,000) • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • TEL:

090-6960-8527• alzar.jp

Cauliflower“Eclec” (Techno/Experimental)

• LIVE: Moss, Shiba • DJS: Shingo,

Mitsuyas, K Sasaki • OPEN: 10pm

• ADMISSION: ¥1500/1D • WHERE:

Shinsaibashi • TEL: 06-6484-3110 • bar-

cauliflower.com

CircusPearson Sound 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (Techno/Experimental)

• DJS: Pearson Sound, Ooshima Shigeru,

Aspara, Dym + more • OPEN: 11pm •

ADMISSION: ¥3,100/1D (ADV: ¥2,600/1D)



JouleYou Are Here 3rd Anniversary feat. Hot Since 82 (Techno)

• DJS: Hot Since 82, Nao Nomura,

Junichi Kuwata + more • OPEN: 11pm

• ADMISSION: ¥3,000 (ADV: ¥2,000,

Under 22 yrs OLD: ¥1,000) • WHERE:


club-joule.com

MetroKyotographie 2018 Kick Off Party- Move On Up- (House/Hip Hop)

• LIVE: Phennel Koliander, Daichi

Yamamoto • DJS: Alex From Tokyo,

Masaki Taura + more • OPEN: 10pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,000/1D (ADV: ¥1,500/1D,

STUDENTS: ¥1,500/1D, W/Kyotographie

PASSPORT: ¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kyoto •

TEL: 075-752-2787 • metro.ne.jp

Noon + CafeDeeperama (Deep House/Techno)

•DJS: Sprinkles a.k.a. Terre Thaemlitz,

Mitsuki + more • OPEN: 9pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,400/1D • WHERE:

Umeda • TEL: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.

com

Singh’s Kitchen & Bar“Ignition” The Spring - DJ Rikam Japan Tour 2018 (Psychedelic Trance)

•ACTS: Rikam, Mirson, Akai + more •

OPEN: 11pm • ADMISSION: TBA • WHERE:

Namba • TEL: 06-6632-4433 • singh-

kitchen.com

SocratesOut of Base vol.16 (Psychedelic Trance)

• DJS: Saroinx, Maro, Shun, Deep Fryer,

Hendanshi + more • OPEN: 10:30pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D • WHERE: Kyoto •

TEL: 075-254-6210 • sound-powder.com

20 (Fri)

Fab-SpaceO.D.L (Dub)

• ACTS: Ove-Naxx, Sak-Dub-I, Dubby

Bon, Hondub Hiroaki, Omodaka,

Theus, Posswokung, Yohei the West,

Naguy, Mipitix + more • OPEN: 10pm •

ADMISSION: ¥2,500 • WHERE: Hyogo,

Himeji • TEL: 079-222-2882 • club-fab.

com

Noon + CafeVintage & Groovin’ Special Edition -Soi 48 Kansai Tour 2018 (Morlum/World Music)

• Live: Oorutaichi, Jap Kasai • DJs: Soi 48,

Mongoose, Iryoku, Opal 7 • Open: 9pm •

Admission: ¥2,400/1D • Where: Umeda •

Tel: 06-6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

21 (Sat)

Troop CafePhc feat. Inga Mauer (Techno)

• DJS: Inga Mauer, Yousuke Yukimatsu,

Halptribe + more • OPEN: 11pm

• ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D (Mail

RESERVATION: ¥2,000/1D. Under 23YRS:

¥1,500/1D) • WHERE: Kobe • TEL: 078-

321-3130 • troopcafe.jp

WaveXXX – Dark Core Luv Psychedelic Party- (Psychedelic Trance)

• DJS: Sion ★ Akihabara, Mi-Bou, Happy,

Hamase, Noise Gust + more • OPEN:

12:00am • ADMISSION: ¥2,500/1D &

Food • WHERE: Shinsaibashi • iflyer.

tv/ja/venue/9199/ • twitter.com/

waveosaka1

23 (Mon)

HokageHokage presents Naniwa Ambi-ent (Ambient/Noise/Industrial)

• ACTS: Okahashi Nobuhiro, Kinzoku

Taro & Sandersonia, Flagio, Mictora +

more • OPEN: 7pm–11pm • ADMISSION:

¥2,500 (ADV: ¥2,000) • WHERE:


musicbarhokage.net

28 (Sat)

CircusAurora Halal 2018 Japan Tour in Osaka (House)

• DJS: Aurora Halal + more • OPEN:



06-6241-3822

PiccadillyNew Ôrder Sp. Guest Kura (EDM)

• DJS: Kura, Benkay, Ray, Shinji, Silver

Fox, Walt, Genki, Chikara + more •

OPEN: 9pm • ADMISSION: Gentlemen

¥3,500/1D; Ladies ¥2,000/1D •

WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-6809-5895 •

clubpiccadilly.com

29 (Sun / hol)

Noon + CafeFreedom Time 22nd Anniversary feat. Toshio Matsuura “Love Play Dance” Release Party in Osaka & Mark de Clive-Lowe Japan Tour 2018 (Crossover/Disco/Latin)

• LIVE: Mark De Clive-Lowe • DJS: Toshio

Matsuura, Shuya Okino + more • OPEN:


¥3,000/1D) • WHERE: Umeda • TEL: 06-

6373-4919 • noon-cafe.com

World KyotoWorld Peace Love #3 feat. Jonas Blue (Future House/EDM)

• DJ: Jonas Blue, Taku-hero, Sa!d, Yuichi,

Kazuya Tanimoto, Gy.T + more • OPEN:

5pm–10pm • ADMISSION: ¥5,700/1D

• WHERE: Kyoto • TEL: 075-213-4119 •

world-kyoto.com

30 (Mon)

CircusRack feat. Yung Bae & Bud-dhahouse (Future Funk/Nu Disco/Hip Hop)

• DJS: Yung Bae, Buddhahouse,

Ashikaga, U2ki, + more • OPEN: 5pm-

12am • ADMISSION: ¥3,600/1D (ADV:

¥3,100/1D, Under 23yrs : ¥1,600/1D) •




Events Club

Osaka

Toho Cinemas Umeda

Now showing: Black Pan-ther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War

Tel: 06-6316-1312 • tohotheater.jp •

Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th

of the month – ¥1,100; every day after

8pm – ¥1,300

Umeda Burg7

Now showing: The 15:17 to Paris, Black Panther, Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House, The Greatest Showman, Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, The Pentagon Papers• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle• From Apr 7: Loveless• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War

Tel: 06-4795-7602 • burg7.com •

Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the

month – ¥1,100; every day after 8pm

– ¥1,300

Cine Libre Umeda

Now showing: The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Happy End, The Last Word, The Sense of An End-ing, The Lure (POL), 120 Beats per Minute (FRA), The Confes-sions, Les Liaisons dangereuses• From Apr 6: Wonderstruck• From Apr 7: Slogan• From Apr 14: In The Fade, Hokusai: Old Man Crazy to Paint, The Way He Looks• From Apr 21: La Grande Illusion• From Apr 27: Patti Cake$• From Apr 28: The Square

Tel: 06-6440-5930 • ttcg.jp/cinelibre_

umeda • Discounts: Weds (women,

men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Theatre Umeda

Now showing: David Lynch: The Art Life, Whisky Galore, A Fantastic Woman, In Bloom, Centaur

• From Apr 7: Lucky• From Apr 14: The Only Living Boy in New York• From Apr 21: Eye on Juliet• From Apr 28: Hampstead

Tel: 06-6359-1080 • ttcg.jp/theatre_

umeda • Discounts: Weds (women,

men); 1st of the month – ¥1,100

Osaka Station City Cinema

Now showing: Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, The Greatest Showman, Black Panther, Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Dangal• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name

Tel: 06-6346-3215 •

osakastationcitycinema.com •

Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the


– ¥1,300

Toho Cinemas Namba

Now showing: Black Pan-ther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name


Weds (women); 1st & 14th of the month –

¥1,100, every day after 8pm – ¥1,300

Namba Parks Cinema

Now showing: Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, Pentagon Papers, The Commuter, The Greatest Showman, Black Pan-ther, Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris, Maudie• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Wonderstruck, Dangal• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising

• From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Patti Cake$• From Apr 28: Hampstead, The Square

Tel: 06-6643-3215 • parkscinema.com

• Discounts: Weds (women); 1st of the


– ¥1,300

Kyoto

Movix Kyoto

Now showing: Maudie, Downsiz-ing, Black Panther, The Shape of Water, The 15:17 to Paris, The Last Word, The Greatest Show-man, Three Billboards, Coco, Tomb Raider, The Boss Baby, Red Sparrow, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, The Pen-tagon Papers, The Commuter, MET: Puccini: La Boheme• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Wonderstruck, Dangal• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Patti Cake$

Tel: 075-254-3215 • smt-cinema.com •

Discounts: Weds (women); 1st and 20th


8pm – ¥1,300

Kyoto Cinema

Now showing: The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Welcome To Germany, Django, 120 Beats per Minute, Manchester by the Sea, Gifted• From Apr 7: The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Life Animated, Body,

Francofonia, Sense and Sensibil-ity, • From Apr 14: In the Fade, Le confessioni, A Fantastic Woman, The Rainbow Thief, Denial• From Apr 21: Dancing Beethov-en, The Remains of the Day• From Apr 28: The Square, The Old Gun, Heartstone, Detroit

Tel: 075-353-4723 • kyotocinema.jp •

Discounts: Weds (women & men); 1st of

the month – ¥1,100

Toho Cinemas Nijo

Now showing: Black Pan-ther, The 15:17 to Paris, The Greatest Showman, Shape of Water, Downsizing, Coco, The Boss Baby, Tomb Raider, The Pentagon Papers, Darkest Hour, Valerian, Red Sparrow, The Commuter• From Apr 6: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Dangal• From Apr 13: Pacific Rim Uprising• From Apr 20: Ready Player One• From Apr 27: Marvel Avengers: Infinity War, Call Me by Your Name


Discounts: Weds (women); 1st & 14th


8pm – ¥1,300

Hyogo

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku

Now showing: Maudie, Downsiz-ing, The Big Sick, MET: Puccini: La Boheme• From Apr 14: MET: Rossini: Semiramide, The Only Living Boy in New York

Tel: 078-230-3580 • smt-cinema.com •

Discounts: Tues (women); 1st and 20th


8pm – ¥1,300

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

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. From Apr 6.


Events Cinema

Classifieds & Jobs

CLASSIFIEDS

For Rent

1R CHIBUNE AREA, 49000YEN/MONTH SEMI FURNISHED 4TH FLOOR CORNER APARTMENT. 16 square meters, with refrigerator, washing machine, curtains, lights, gas cooking range, study desk/chair. gas/electricity additional. Water/insurance/internet included. 6month min. contract, no key money, no sales fees, No service fees, 1month refundable deposit. Alex 09037030314. Price: 49000 • Pickup location: 4-13-7 owada, Nishiyodogawa-ku, Osaka-shi (5min walk from Chibune station) • Website: http://www.abhousingosaka.com • Contact: [email protected]

2DK BENTENCHO FULLY FURNISHED 90000YEN/MONTH 4TH FLOOR APARTMENT. 45 square meter, 1 bedroom 90000yen. Fully furnished with all needed for a comfortable stay. All is close by: shopping, downtown Osaka city. 6min walk to Bentencho subway and JR stations. 3month min. stay required. No Key money, No Guarantor required, No Sales/Service Fees. Utilities additional.. Price: 90000 • Pickup location: 3-10-19 Minami Ichioka, Minato-ku, Osaka-Shi • Website: http://www.abhousingosaka.com • Contact: [email protected]

Community

Clubs and Groups

FREE ABACUS CLASS FOR FOREIGNERS FREE ABACUS CLASS FOR FOREIGNERS. OFFERED BY O.C.C.I. and Osaka Abacus Assoc. to promote int‘l goodwill. Individualized lessons taught in

Japanese or English. Saturdays 10-12 am. Course material provided for free. Near Sakaisuji-Hommachi and Kitahama. Call: Moritomo Ken 06-6572-6877. Website: https://sites.google.com/site/osakasoroban/abacus-classes • Contact: [email protected]

KANSAI SCENE CYCLING CLUB. Join like-minded cyclists for gentle jaunts into the Kansai countryside. Sometimes. Hey, we're all busy people right? Why suffer alone when you can suffer together? Share and discover the best routes in the region and meet some fellow weekend warriors. Rides will start/end in Osaka for the time being. Join us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/clubs/kansaisceneCC

Announcements

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?.TELL Lifeline needs listenersTELL Lifeline Kansai team is looking for listeners. Spring 2018 training program starts on Feb 24 (all online training) Find more information here: http://telljp.com/lifeline/pctraining/ or contact [email protected]

JOBS

TeachingOSAKA

SPRING 2018 CORPORATE LANGUAGE CLASSES. part-time. CES is seeking corporate class teachers of all languages for Regular Daytime, Evening classes, Spring Intensives in all areas of the Kansai area. 3,500-4,000 yen per hour, If interested in applying, please email Resume with Availability to [email protected].

PART-TIME PRIVATE TEACHING JOBS IN ALL KANSAI AREA. part-time. Looking for private language students? Pick your own lesson fee, schedule and location and then students will directly contact you! Available for : English, Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Burmese, Cantonese and Arabic.. Salary: around 2,500-3,500 per hour (negotiable) • Company Name: hello-sensei.com • Website: https://hello-sensei.com/en/sensei • Contact: [email protected]

Many more jobs and classifieds online at Kansaifinder.com

Looking for something else?Kansai Scene Classifieds and Jobs are now online at Kansaifinder.com

Place your own ad today

It's free for online listings or just ¥3,000 per month for your ad to appear in print. Post and pay online.


HyogoHyogoKyotoKyoto

NaraNara MieMie

ShigaShiga

WakayamaWakayama

OsakaOsaka

Get Kansai SceneKansai Scene is available from the following major outlets in the Kansai region:

OSAKAHotels and Guesthouses

Hyatt Regency, Nikko Hotel, St. Regis, Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, Ritz Carlton, Hilton Osaka, Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka, InterContinental Hotel Osaka

Tourist Information Centers

Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Osaka), Hankyu Tourist Center Umeda, Osaka Visitors Information Center (JR Namba), Kansai Tourist Information Center (KIX), Kansai Tourist Information Center (Shinsaibashi), Nankai Information Center (Namba)

Shops

Kinokuniya Bookstore Umeda, Kinokuniya Honmachi, Tower Records Umeda, Junkudo Namba, Hard Rock Cafe

KYOTOHotels and Guesthouses

Royal Hotel, Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto, Kyoto Nikko Hotel


Kyoto Tourist Information Center, Kansai Tourist Information Center Kyoto, Kyoto International Community House

Shops

Junkudo Kyoto, Maruzen & Junkudo Kyoto Main Store, GEAR

KOBEHotels and Guesthouses

Kobe Bay Sheraton, Kobe Portopia Hotel


Kobe International Community Center, Hyogo International Plaza

Shops

Junkudo Nishinomiya, Junkudo Sannomiya, Kinokuniya Kobe

INTRODUCTION

The Kansai area covers the prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Mie, and Shiga. There is so much to explore, so you’ll need to prioritize your time wisely. Its main travel hubs are Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, all of which are well connected by high-speed rail networks, including the shinkansen (bullet train).

On regular trains, you can travel between Osaka and Kyoto in about 45 mins, and between Kobe and Osaka in about 30 mins. If you are here on holiday, pick up a convenient travel pass, such as the Kansai Thu Pass (surutto.com) or Kansai One Pass (kansaionepass.com), to avoid having to negotiate the ticket machines. Use a website such as HyperDia (hyperdia.com) to check train times and platforms from your smartphone.

Trains and SubwaysThere is an excellent rail network connecting all corners of Kansai. As well as JR (Japan Rail), there are numerous private railway companies servicing the area, including Keihan (Osaka/Kyoto), Hankyu (Osaka/Kyoto), Nankai (Osaka, Wakayama, Koya), Hanshin (Osaka/Kobe), and Kintetsu (Osaka/Nara/Mie/Nagoya). Each line operates several types of train. For the fastest trains, look for the Limited Express service trains. Be aware that Local trains stop at every station on the line, so only take them if no other type of train stops at your station. Subways operate in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto and are an extremely efficient way to get around the cities.

» Tip: Pick up a Railway Network map from a major station or Tourist Information Center.

BusesFor out-of-the-way locations, or in certain cities such as Kyoto, you may need to take a bus. A travel pass usually includes travel on municipal bus services.

TaxisFares start from ¥500. The drivers wearing white gloves and official hats tend to be the most courteous, but don’t expect English to be widely understood. Have your destination name and address on hand in Japanese.

Airport TransfersTo/from downtown Osaka, the most convenient option is the Nankai Rapi:t Express service (KIX <> Namba 42mins) or a Limousine Bus. To/from Kyoto, take the JR Airport Express HARUKA service (75 mins).

ATMs and Credit CardsIf you’re using Visa, you will be able to withdraw cash at most bank or convenience-store ATMs. If you’re using Mastercard, your best bet for withdrawing money is at 7-Eleven ATMs. Most other ATMs in Kansai do not accept Mastercard. It is not common to make in-store payments using credit or visa-debit cards in Japan, even for expensive purchases. Many shops and restaurants do not offer this service, so be sure to carry plenty of cash with you.

Wi-FiGetting connected in Kansai can be tricky. Renting a smartphone or SIM card at the airport is the safest option, to connect to the internet over a 3G or 4G network. In Osaka, you can access the Osaka Free Wi-Fi service at train and subway stations, stores and facilities throughout the prefecture.

Accidents and Emergencies » Ambulance/Fire service: Tel: 119 » Police: Tel: 110


MAPS & INFORMATION / Getting Around

Osaka North (Kita) MAPS & INFORMATION

Kitahama

Edobori

Dojima

Fukushima

Nishi TenmaHanshin Expressway (Loop Route)

Naniwabashi

Nakanoshima

WatanabebashiOebashi

Chuo Line

Keihan-Nakanoshima Line

Kita Shinchi

35F

Hanshin Main Line

Route No.2

Fukushima Sta.

JR Tozai Line

Tosabori Dori

Honmachi Dori

Shin-Fukushima Sta.

Nakan

oshim

a Sta.

Fukushima Sta.

Dojima River

Higobashi

HankyuUmeda Sta.

HankyuTouristCenter

Osaka Station City

Umeda

Hanshin Umeda Sta.

Nis

hi U

med

a

Dai-1Bldg.

Kita Shinchi

Dai-2Bldg.

Dai-4Bldg.

Dai-3Bldg.

Yotsubashi Line

B1F

7F

Tosabori River

Midosuji Line

Miyako

jima-d

ori

Hankyu Higashidori Arcade

Osaka Loop Line

Shin Midosuji

Midosuji

Yotsubashisuji

Naniw

asuji

Amidaikesuji

Higashi Umeda

Nakazaki-c

ho

Tanimachi Line

Chuo Odori

Sakaisuji LineK

itahama

Nakanoshima Dori

Yodoyabashi

Ogimachi Park

Kinokuniya

ClubQuattro

Always

umedaTRAD

USConsulate

Hotel Kansai

HanshinDept.

Junkudo

SonezakiPolice H.Q.

Toho Cinemas UmedaHankyu

Dept.

NationalMuseum of ArtScienceMuseum

TAKAMURA Wine & CoffeeRoasters

YodobashiCamera

JR OsakaLucua 1100

Osaka StationCity Cinema Lucua

HotelGranvia

HiltonPlaza West

TGI Fridays

City HallOsaka City Public Hall

Library

Club Noon

WestinHotel

MisterKelly’s

Herbis Osaka

Hotel Monterey Osaka

Hearton Hotel Nishiumeda

Rihga RoyalHotel

Grand Cube Osaka

Sumitomo Hosp.

TowerRecords

RitzCarlton

HotelHanshin

Drop InnOsaka Maru

Bldg.

HiltonHotel

NTT Data

ABC Hall

Dojima River Forum

YMCA

Craft BeerBase Garden

OSTEC Exibition Hall

Beer Belly

RihgaNakanoshima

Inn

APA Hotel

Mitsui Garden Hotel

Hotel Kinki

Visitors’InformationCenter

DaimaruUmeda

Umeda SkyBuilding

Cine Libre Umeda

Post Office

Utsubo Park

Kitamido

Utsubo Tennis Center

Honmachi Sakaisujihommachi

Bank of Japan

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kitahama

APA VillaHotel

FestivalHall

Ana CrownePlaza

ACCJKansai

Hotel ElsereineOsaka

Dojima Hotel

Mitsui SumitomoBank

Museum of Oriental Ceramics

Nii Fine Arts

Elmers Green Cafe

il Bar CentralBanco

Hard Rock Cafe Osaka

Dojima Avanza

HerbisEnt

InterContinental Osaka Hotel

HankyuGrand Bldg

Grand FrontOsaka /KnowledgeCapital

UmekitaPlaza

German Consulate

Hep 5Hep Navio

TheaterUmeda

New HankyuOsaka Hotel

H&M

Hub

OWL Osaka

ClubAzul

TohoAnnex

Maruzen & Junkudo

Craft Beer Base

Shangrila

UmedaBurg7

OsakaYWCA

KitanoHosp.

Hanshin Expressway

Hon

mac

hi

Hon

mac

hi

APA Hotel

St. Regis Hotel Osaka

Sōai High School

Starbucks

Starbucks

2F33F

1F

6F

3/4F

The BlarneyStone

3RD WORD Beer

MaekawaLaw Firm

OutbackSteakhouse

ExeoCreamy

Captain Kangaroo

1F

Osaka Dental Clinic

Daiwa Homes Group

Hooters Osaka

Noon+Cafe

Daiichi Group

0 200m

N

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

DCBA

DCBA


MAPS & INFORMATION Osaka South (Minami)

Shinmachi

Shinsaibashi

Soemon-Cho

Dotonbori

Namba

Kita-Horie

Nippon-Bashi

Higashi-Shinsaibashi

Minami-Horie

Inari

Minami-semba

Nishiohashi

Yots

ubas

hi

Dotonbori River

Nani

wa-

suji

Namba

JR N

amba

Sta

. Nam

ba Sta.

NambaSennichimae line

Saka

isuji

line

Suomachi-dori (Europe street)

Shin

saib

ashi

-suj

i (sh

oppi

ng a

rcad

e)Sh

insa

ibas

hi-s

uji (

shop

ping

arc

ade)

Orange Street (shopping street)

NagahoribashiNagahori Tsurumi-Ryokuchi line

Nagahori dori

Shinsaibashi

Mid

osuj

i lin

e

Ota

road2F

4F

Yots

ubas

hi li

ne

2F

Ark Hotel

Tokyu Hands

GAPLouis Vuitton

Hearton Hotel

Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau

NambaShrine

ComfortHotel

FujiyaHotel

KaneyoshiRyokan

KinryuRamen

ibis StylesOsaka

DaimaruDept.North

NambaWashington

HotelOsaka Floral Inn

GhostUltralounge

Cinem@rt

Banco

Vano

CraftBurger

Circus

Critters Burger

EXODUSNikkoHotel

Via Inn

Big Step

CoventGarden

7-ELEVEN

Ali’s Kitchen

Uniqlo

OPA

CrossHotel

APAHotel

DotonboriHotel

Kansai TouristInformation Center

HotelIchiei

Casa Lapichu

McDonalds

Osaka PrefecturalGymnasium

Naniwa SportsCenter

Naniwa Post Office

Naniwa Ward Office

FraserResidence

B1PureOsaka Don Quijote

Vanity

Namba PlazaHotel

APA Hotel

BIC Camera

MUJI/LOFTTower Records

Maruzen

Toys”R”Us

Animate Nihonbashi Shop

K2 record

Sofmap

NambaOrientalHotel

MisonoBuilding

Singh’s Kitchen

KuromonMarket

Jazz BarB-Roxy

Junkudo

AEONMaxValu

OCAT

AppleStore

DaimaruDept.

DaimaruDept.South

D & Dept.

NaniwaPark

HoriePark

Shinmachi Kita Park

Sun Hall

Slices

Joule

Triangle Park

Kansai SceneMojoprintOffice

Little Long Beach

Music Bar S.O.R.a

WestwoodBakers

TezukayamaGallery

Ohno MemorialHospital

Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

TominagaHospital

NambaHatch

SwissôtelNankai Osaka

Nankai NambaStation

YamadaDenkiLABI1 Namba

NambaPARKS

NAMBA PARKS CINEMA

TakashimayaDept. Store

Toho Cinemas Namba annex

Toho Cinemas Namba

Don Quijote

Mexico

Rooftop Bar OO

ALZAROsakaShochikuza

HozenjiTemple

L&L

Namba-naka

Moto-machi

VisitorsInformation

Center

Namba Hips

MoeJoe

MizuhoBank

B1Burlesque

Bar JaaiJANUS

soma Cinquecento

FootRock&BEERS

Minami Police StationTriangle

Hotel Via Inn

Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Toyoko Inn

Pub Bar 30

Nipponbashi sta.

HeartonHotel

Nest HotelYamaya

Big Beans Supermarket

Life

Jack & Queen

3F

2F2F

5F8F

B1

The BlarneyStone

Kokopelli

GS Travel

The Silver Ball Planet

SauceBoss

SabotenBistroNewOrleans

bi-grace nail

El Pancho

Arthur Murray

Zerro

CafeAbsinthe

AbsintheSolaar 8F

Boy

The Suite

TABIJI KitchenGranknot

Coffee

Balabushka

MustangMoonshine

Moon Tower

Coolabah

Murphy’s

0 100m

N

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

DCBA

DCBA


Osaka Tennoji Area MAPS & INFORMATION

Osaka MunicipalUniversity Hospital

Abeno Q’s Mall

Abeno Harukas

Hoop

ROCKTOWN4F

LanguageSchool

Kansai KyoikuUniversity

Shitennoji

ShitennojiHonbo

TennojiZoo

TennojiWard Office

Tenshiba

Osaka Municipal Museum of

Fine Art

Tsutenkaku

ImamiyaEbisu Shrine

ZeppNamba

TennojiSta.

Aben

o St

a.

Shin-Imamiya

Nan

kai S

hin-

Imam

iya

Dobutsuen-mae

Ebis

ucho

Tera

dach

o

Shin Sekai

Nipponbashi

Tenn

oji S

ta.

Nank

ai M

ain

Line

Yots

ubas

hi L

ine

Sakaisu

ji Line

Kansai Main Line

Hank

ai T

ram

way

Hanwa Line

Midosuji Line

Tani

mac

hi L

ine

Osa

ka L

oop

Line

Mom

odan

i

Koboreguchi Sta.

Imai

ke

Hans

hin

Expr

ess

Rout

e 1

CocoMomo&Co.

Tenma

Kyobashi

Tamatsukuri

OsakaCastle

OsakaCastle Park

MorinomiyaQ’s Mall BASE

Osaka Museumof History

Osaka PrefecturalGovernment Office

Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Osaka-joHall

Mint Museum

KKR HotelOsaka

Subw

ay Im

azat

o Li

ne

Osa

ka L

oop

Line

Tozai Line

Keihan Main Line

Subw

ay T

anim

achi

Lin

e

Hanshin Expressway Higashi Osaka Route

Subw

ay S

akai

suji

Line

Subway Chuo Line

Han

shin

Exp

ress

way

Kita

ham

a

Tani

mac

hi 4

-cho

me

Tenmabashi

Osaka Tenmangu

Osaka Business Park

Osa

ka-jo

Koe

n

Morinom

iyaKyobashi

Shigino

Kyobashi

Saka

isuj

i Hon

mac

hi

0 400m

N

0 400m

N

1

1

2

2

3

3

1

1

2

2

3

3

DCBA

DCBA

DCBA

DCBA

Osaka Castle Area


MAPS & INFORMATION Kobe

Yamamoto-dori

Meriken park

Kitano-cho

Nankin-machi

Hanak

uma

Shinko-Cho

Boeki center

Sanno

miya

SannomiyaSannomiya

Sann

omiyaJR

Sanno

miya

JR Motomachi sta.

Motomachi

Tor Road

Pearl Street

Kobe Mosque

Migration Museum

Kobe Halal Food

Yamate kansen

1F

Hunt

erza

ka

Kita

noza

kaFu

doza

ka

Shie

i Yam

ate

subw

ay li

ne

SOGO Dept.5F Port liner

Kobe kosokutetsu

do

Hanshin line

Subway Kaigan line

Route 2

Flower road

Sanchika und.

7F

1F

7F

5F

5FOS CinemasMint Kobe

4F

MitsuiSumitomoBank

MunicipalMuseum

Kobe CityHall

IsogamiPark

HigashiyuenchiPark

Kobe Luminarie

Aoyama

Raja IndianRestaurant

MinatoBank

SannomiyaCine Phoenix

Cine Libre Kobe

Marui

DaimaruDept.

Kobe Doll Museum

Hanakuma Park

Kobe IkutaJunior HighSchool

Palmore Hosp.

KitanosakaHosp.

Kitanoseiryu Shrine

KitanoMuseum

KobeElementarySchool

Shinko High School

Hotel La SuiteKobe Harborland

Hotel Okura Kobe

Jumbo Ferry Terminal

KIITOCafe Fish!

Kobe Maritime Museum

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental

Kobe Cruise Luminous Kobe 2

Kobe Harborland umie

OS Cinema Harborland

umieMOSAIC

Hyogo-kenPrefectural Hall

Ikuta PoliceStation

KobeWomensJuniorCollege

Bistrot Cafe De Paris

Ikuta jinja

Hotel Monterey

Kobe Plaza Hotel

Hotel Tor Road

Kobe Grocers

Tokyu Hands

Troopcafe

Varit

Mickey’sClub

Midnight

SorakuPark San

PlazaCenterPlaza EastCenter

PlazaWest

Junkudo

Tower Records

Sannomiya

Hanadokeimae st.

Kyukyoryuchi

Daimarumae

Sansei Hosp.

Junkudo

KinokuniyaKobe KokusaiKaikan

Kobe Kokusai Shochiku

HSBC

KRAC

Sun CityHobgoblin

IzntHotel Tokyu Inn

Hotel Piena Kobe

4FKowka

3F

Ali’s Kitchen

Kobe YWCA

2FThe Rock

2FGuild

4F

CULMENI3F

St. Michael’s International School

Oriental Dental Clinic

Arthur Murray

7FKobe Legal Partners

0 200m

N

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

DCBA

DCBA


Kyoto MAPS & INFORMATION

Butterfly

Maruzen Kyoto Bal

Gypsy

H&M

The Gael Irish Pub

KawaraMachi

Teramachi Area

KamibentenCho

Gion

Kiya Cho

SanjoWakamatsu-dori

Shijo-dori

Miyako Messe

ROHM Theatre Kyoto

HeianShrine

HotelOkura

The RitzCarlton

Club Metro

Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa

Hotel Vista Premio Kyoto

JAM Hostel Kyoto Gion

KaosanKyoto

TouristInformation

Center

KitsuneKyoto

Junkudo

Kyoto City Hall

Irish PubGnome

LAB.TRIBE

Gastro PubTadg’s

DUBLIN

Pig & Whistle Hana hotel

Honno-ji

Gear

Yasaka Jinja

MaruyamaPark

Okazaki Park

Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art Annex

National Museum of Modern Art

Library

ApaHotel

Gion Kaikan

Kenninji

Nawa Clinic

Ebisu Shrine

Genkoin

RyoshoinKacho-michi

Minami-zaTheatre

JomoGas

FujiDaimaru Takashimaya

Kyoto MunicipalMuseum ofSchool History

Marui

Kyoto bAKpAK Gion hostel

Guest House Rakuza

Yam

atoj

i-dor

iKe

ihan

Lin

e

Kam

ogaw

a Ri

ver

Pont

ocho H

anam

ikoji-

dori

Shirakawa-dori

Shirakawa river

Kiya

mac

hi-d

ori

Kaw

aram

achi

-dor

i

Shin

kyog

oku

Shot

enga

iTe

ram

achi

Sho

teng

aiG

okom

achi

-dor

i

Hig

ashi

Oji

- dor

i

Fuya

cho-

dori

Tozai Subway Line

Hankyu Line

Mina

OPAWorld

MovixKyoto

Oike-dori

Nijo-dori

Kyotoshiyakusho-mae

Kawaramachi

SanjokeihanHigashiyama

Sanj

o

Gio

n sh

ijo

Sanjo-dori

Kyoto Museum ofContemporaryArt

Aeon ShoppingMall

TatsumiBridge

Mori Yu Gallery Kyoto

The world's smallest Ukiyoe museum

HigashiyamaWard Office

Kodai-ji

Ninenzaka

HUB

0 200m

N

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

DCBA

DCBA


Find places to dine, things to do, and browse job and classified listings in the Kansai area

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