issue 18 │ 2020
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Japan

A multi-faceted country
featuring the wondersof the four seasons

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Prologue
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics have finally hit thehome stretch and are closing in fast. Efforts inJapan have picked up at an incredible pace toprepare for the wave of tourists from overseas
with improvements such as multi-lingual
services, overseas currency exchange, and the
movement towards cashless transactions.
Overseas visitors seem to be responding tothese efforts as the surge has begun. In 2018,
for the first time ever, the number of visitors
to Japan exceeded 30-million people. This
figure is astounding considering the fact thatthe number of inbound visitors 10 years ago, in
2009, was 6.79-million people.
Local governments in Japan are currently
honing their sights to visitors from Australia inparticular. Visitor numbers from nearby places
such as China, South Korea, and Taiwan remain
high, which is to be expected when considering
their proximity to the country. However, whenit comes to length of stay, Australians come out

on top, and on the financial side of the equation,
Australians are also more likely to spend moreon various experiences. These factors have led toAustralians topping the rankings of nationalities
who spend the most in the country. Japan not
only welcomes Australians because they rank thehighest in terms of statistics, but also because of
their reputation for being friendly tourists.
First-time visitors to Japan have a tendency
to take the model course and visit the cities ofTokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, otherwise known
as the “Golden Route”, however, returning
visitors have their sights set on areas awayfrom the Golden Route.
All of the places in Japan that do not fallon the Golden Route have their own uniqueculture, and I would hazard a guess to say thatthese different quirks would easily surpass thenumber of countries in the world.
Our goal here at jStyle is to step awayfrom the stereotypical side of Japan, andbring you more unique destinations, places
many tourists are still yet to discover, and akaleidoscope of cultures. We’re here to open up
a world of Japan that even the most informed
Japanophiles would find new and exciting.
In the 18th edition of this publication,
we’ll introduce you to: the best spots to visit
if you happen to be in the country for the
Tokyo Olympics, destinations slipping into
the spotlight in recent years, great products,
exciting programs to experience in Japan, andlots more! We’ve also included some Japaneseexperiences to be had in Sydney where the head
office of Nichigo Press, a Japanese-language
newspaper in its 43rd year of operation andpublisher of jStyle, can be found.
We hope you enjoy this edition and discovera new side of Japan along the way.

Kazuya BabajStyle issue 18 │ 3

20Contents

3

Prologue

6

Foreword Gallery

12

Travel News

15

Giveaway

16

Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics

Gourmet20

Give Japanese Rice a Go

26

Australian-grown Organic Green Tea

28

The History of Japanese Knives and Its
Influence

4 │ jStyle issue 18

Travel30

KYOTO
See All the Sights in Arashiyama

34

CAMPTON
A New Style of Accomodation Harmonising
History and Modernity

36

OMOSHIROI BLOCK
Flip Through to Reveal the Beautiful Creations

38

ISE-SHIMA
Ise Jingu and the Scenic Coastline-City of
Shima

42

KOYASANThe Sacred Grounds for Shingon Buddhism
as Preached by Kobo-Daishi Kukai

47

NARA
Shrines and Temples, Animals, and Food

54

KANAZAWA
From a Japanese Garden Built by a Famous
General, to Modern Art

56

AIZU
A Tapestry of History, Culture, and NatureFilled Mountains

61

FUKUSHIMA
Riding the Wave of Recovery

30
Japow
68

LOTTE ARAI RESORTMarvel at the Largest Non-Compacted
Snow Slope in Japan70

SHIBU-ONSEN
The Closest Long-Established Hot Spring
Area to the Snow Monkeys

Mail Order
Have the annual issue of jstyledelivered to your door!
To place a mail order, send acheque or money order for $10(incl. GST, postage and handlingfees) together with your nameand address to:
NICHIGO PRESS PO BOX A2612,
Sydney South NSW 1235

72

Delivery may be subject to postal
system delays. Nichigo Press disclaims
any responsibility for such delays. Offer
available in Australia only.

issue 18 │ 2020 │ FREEEDITORIALEDITOR IN CHIEF
Kazuya Baba
EDITORS & WRITERS
Ida Van, Yuriko Ishii, Ryoji Yamauchi,
Shinya Kosaka, Riko Mizumura,
Kaori Yamashita, Emiko Ishigami
TRANSLATORS
Ida Van
DESIGNART DIRECTOR & DESIGNER
Kosaku Makino
DESIGNERS
Yuki Matsuyama, Junko Wakimura
ADVERTISING
GENERAL MANAGER
Kazuya Baba

82
Culture56
Experience Japan in Sydney
86

Gojyuan - Workshops to experience and share
all things Japan

88

Blue Mountains -Japanese bath house

90

Sushi Kaido - Real sushi made by a Japanesesushi chef

91

AZUMA - A well-established restaurant

72

Art Meets Sento

92

76

Arita Porcelain - One of JapaneseRepresentative Traditional Arts

KUBOTA - Exquisite flavours that won't hurt
the hip pocket

93

78

Industrial Night Views

Tokyo Mart - For all your Japanese food andsake needs in Sydney

82

Unique Hotels Offering Wonderful
Experiences

94

TRAVEL TIPS

98

Workingholiday Connection

SALES MANAGER
Naoto Ijichi
SALES REPRESENTATIVES
Ayane Ijuin, Maki Nakano, Emi Fukuda,
Ayano Kishi, Fuka Oyama, Kazuyo Fukuhara,
Midori Endo, Rinako Nagami
NICHIGO PRESS PUBLICATIONSPUBLISHER
Ike Ikeguchi
GENERAL MANAGER
Kazuya Baba
EDITORIAL npeditor@nichigo.com.au
DESIGN npart1@nichigo.com.au
ADVERTISING npsales@nichigo.com.au
jStyle is published by
NICHIGO PRESS AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD.
Level 3, 724-728 George St., Sydney NSW Australia
General Enquiries
Tel: (02)9211-1155 Fax: (02)9211-1722
Email: npsyd@nichigo.com.au
Websites: j-style.com.au / nichigopress.jp /nichigo.com.au
DISCLAIMER: While we take every care in ensuring that material publishedin jStyle is accurate, data and information may change after the date of
publication, 1 Nov 2019. Nichigo Press cannot take responsibility for thecontent of advertisements and contributions from external persons or entities.
No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent
from the copyright holders. Nichigo Press Australia requires as part of its terms
and conditions of contract that the content of advertisements do not infringe
the rights of any third party and do not breach any provision of the Trade
Practices Act 1974 (Cth) or the Fair Trading Act 1987 (NSW) or similar legislation
enacted in other states of Australia (or other jurisdictions). Nichigo Presscannot be held responsible for advertisements that breach these conditions.

jStyle issue 18 │ 5

WELCOME Gallery

MeteoricPower6 │ jStyle issue 18

Rickshaw Cart

Ukiyo-e Heroes
By David Bull & Jed HenryA Canadian woodblock printer and American Ukiyo-e artist bringing
Japanese gaming heroes to life with a traditional Japanese twist

jStyle issue 18 │ 7

WELCOME Gallery

Fox Moon

8 │ jStyle issue 18

2

1

U

kiyo-e is a formof art originatingin Japan during
the Edo period.
The striking
designs of thebold compositions and absence of
shadows are characteristic to thisuniquely Japanese style of paintingthat has amassed fans from aroundthe world. While perspective plays
a role in the composition of a piece,
what also makes this style unique isthe tendency to draw backgroundfigures in a larger fashion in a waythat almost goes against what one
might expect. Ukiyo-e is often usedas historical reference material forthe scenes captured, depictions of

3

altered or no-longer existing famous
locations, and the showcasing oflifestyles, jobs, and cultures of thepast. In and amongst the historicalconnotations of this art form is an
Ukiyo-e artist who decorates his
canvases with characters from modern
video games. He goes by the name of
Jed Henry. As this Japanophile of an
American began his project to depict
Japanese video game characters (andother pop culture references) in thestyle of Ukiyo-e, a certain woodblock
printer, named David Bull, made a
proposal to him to join forces.
David Bull is a Canadian who wascaptivated by the Japanese-style ofwoodblock printing, and has sincemade a name for himself as a renowned

4

1. David Bull hard at workin the Mokuhankan
2. Truly delicate andprecise skills required forthese techniques
3. The varied textures areclear in the white portion
4. Right: printing block,
left: printed composition

MOKUHANKAN
1-41-8 Asakusa, Taitoku, Tokyo 111-0032
facebook.com/
UkiyoEHeroes/

woodblock printer. He is also popularamongst overseas tourists for thebusiness he operates in Asakusa thatsells woodblock prints and also offers
the chance to experience woodblock
print-making as well.
Ukiyo-e were once creations painted
by hand; however, they generally refer
to woodblock-printed paintings. The
Ukiyo-e compositions are drawn by Jed,and then finished as woodblock-prints
by David. These compositions are partof a series known as “Ukiyo-e Heroes”
and have taken the world by storm,garnering fans from far and wide.
Six pieces from Ukiyo-e Heroes
have been chosen to feature in the
Foreword Gallery. We hope you enjoy
the works of art as much as we do!
jStyle issue 18 │ 9

WELCOME Gallery

Dragons Gift

10 │ jStyle issue 18

“U kiyo-e is often used as historical reference material
for the scenes captured, depictions of altered or
no-longer existing famous locations, and the showcasingof lifestyles, jobs, and cultures of the past.

I Choose You

Faithful Lookout

Meteoric Power

jStyle issue 18 │ 11

NEWS Travel

Travel NewsFor
visitors
toJapan

Tourist information you’ll want to know
before planning your trip to Japan, and news
on handy services while you’re there.
*The information on these pages is current as of October 2019.

Tokyo ranked the ‘Safest City’ for the third time runningTokyo has taken out the top place in The Economist Intelligence
Unit’s Safe Cities Index 2019, with Osaka coming in at third
place. The capital city of Japan has ranked first for threeconsecutive surveys in this index of 60 cities conducted once
every two years since 2015. In the 2019 edition of this index,
cities were given scores out of 100 across a range of indicators
including digital, health, infrastructure, and personal security.
Tokyo topped the ranks for low petty and violent crime levels,
infrastructure to withstand natural disasters, and low risk ofcomputer malware infection, with high scores in other categories.

12 │ jStyle issue 18

TOP 5 CITIES IN THE
SAFE CITIES INDEX 2019

1. Tokyo
2. Singapore
3. Osaka
4. Amsterdam
5. Sydney

92.0
91.5
90.9
88.0
87.9

More flights to and fromJapan in preparation for
the Tokyo Olympics
The Japanese government has announced
an increase in international departures
and arrivals to Haneda Airport fromapproximately 60,000 to 99,000 flights
in preparation for the Tokyo Olympic
and Paralympic Games. Approximately
50 extra slots per day will be allocatedfrom March 29, 2020 as part of the newsummer schedule. Of the 50 additionalslots, Australia has been awarded four
allocations amongst nine other countries
including the United States and China.
The new Australian flights to and fromHaneda Airport will also include the first
midday slot for the route.

Large luggage to require
reservations on the Shinkansen
Large suitcases and other bulky items will require luggage
reservations to take onboard the Tokaido, Sanyo, andKyushu Shinkansen lines starting May 2020. The plannedchanges are part of an effort to increase security measures
for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.
Large luggage is deemed to have a collective length, width,and depth between 160cm and 250cm with reservations
required alongside other reserved seat options such as
window seats, and internet services. No additional costis required when reserved beforehand, however, a 1,000yen fee must be paid if a reservation is not made. If a large
luggage item is carried onto a non-reserved seat, then an
extra 520 yen to upgrade to a reserved seat must also be
paid alongside the additional luggage fee. The luggage will
be kept locked up in spaces behind seats at the end of acarriage, or in the luggage space on the deck. There are no
current plans to introduce these changes to the Tohoku
or Hokuriku lines.

jStyle issue 18 │ 13

NEWS Travel

Discover a new side of JapanThe Japan National Tourism Organization(JNTO) spreads the word about the charmsof Japan to residents of Australia and New
Zealand. Their website provides information
handy for travelling around Japan about topics
such as Japanese culture, food, skiing, andshopping. Check out the website for the latest
information about Japan before planning yournext trip over to the land of the rising sun.

Photos: Tokyo Customs

jnto.org.au

Be sure to also check out the official jStyle
Facebook page for information about
Japanese culture. The page is jam-packed
with information about Japanese experiences
including traditional Japanese sweets, history,
castles, temples, and the beautiful outdoors.
You can also find the latest news about
events in Australia, such as the Japanese pop
culture convention, SMASH!, and the Cherry
Blossom Festival welcoming the start ofspring. Head on over to the Facebook pageand discover a new side of Japan.
facebook.com/nichigojstyle

14 │ jStyle issue 18

Electronic Customs Declaration Gate System
at Narita Airport now in operation
The Electronic Customs Declaration
Gate System (e-Gate) has been rolled out
at Terminal 3 in Narita Airport. With
this new system, the customs declaration
form can now be filled out electronicallyon an app rather than on paper. The
aim of this new system is to speed up theprocess and shorten waiting times forthe ever-increasing number of inboundpassengers. Progressing through customs
has now been made simple by filling out
the required details on the app, scanning
the generated QR code and your passport
at the electronic declaration terminal, andthen having your face photo taken on the
spot. The declaration process can be done
whilst waiting to collect your luggage. Onceyou have completed the process, pick up

your luggage, head through the e-Gate, andthen verify your identity through the facialrecognition system, before proceeding
through. The e-Gate is scheduled to bemade available in Terminals 1 and 2 at
Narita Airport, and other major airports
from Spring 2020. For more details, visit
the Japan Customs official website. Scan
the QR codes found below to download
the official app.
customs.go.jp/english/passenger/egate.htm
youtube.com/watch?v=-MkM0Aak8qo

For iOS devices

For Android devices

1 2KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYOCLUB FLOOR PREMIER GRAND
ACCOMMODATION VOUCHER

jStyle Readers’

1

PRIZE

We’re giving away the following
awesome prizes to 25 lucky
winners drawn at random! Fillout the survey from the linkincluded below to be in thedraw to win.

TRIAD “OMOSHIROI BLOCK”
MEMO PAD

10PRIZESA stylish memo pad featuring famous
Japanese tourist destinations such as
Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, and Kiyomizudera, as well as characteristicallyJapanese designs. Check out p36 formore information about these memo
pads that make perfect souvenirs.

Two nights in one room for two people
with breakfast and Lounge access included

Giveaway

GIVEAWAY

An accommodation voucher for a stayat the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Club
Floor Premier Grand, a suite created forspecial guests. Check out p82 for moredetails about the hotel.

TRIAD INC.

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO
Note: Reservations are subject to availability. Period of validity: 1 December
2019 – 29 February 2020. Ineligible dates: 24, 25, 31 December, 1 January,
Saturdays, and days before holidays.

www.j-style.com/campaign

3 4 5
Entries close: 30 September 2020
One entry permitted per email address.
Winners will be contacted via email.

SHIKAMARO-KUN
MERCHANDISE

10PRIZES

Nara City Tourism Association mascot

A set containing items such as ahandkerchief, pen, clear folder, and othergoods featuring the cute and lovable
Shikamaro-kun (the mascot of Nara City
Tourism Association). Check out p47 forthe feature article about Nara city.
NARA CITY TOURISM ASSOCIATIONDAIWA ROYAL HOTEL
D-PREMIUM KANAZAWA
ACCOMMODATION VOUCHER

1

PRIZE

Accommodation only for two days and onenight in one room for two people

An accommodation voucher for a stayat the Daiwa Royal Hotel D-Premium
Kanazawa. This hotel features an interior
design incorporating aspects of traditional
Kanazawa culture, Kaga Yuzen-inspired
baths, and other luxuries only foundin Kanazawa. Check out p55 for more
information about Kanazawa and the hotel.

BACK ISSUE SET OF JSTYLE
AND JSNOW

3PRIZES

A set featuring the last 6 issues of jStyleand last 3 issues of jSnow. Use the travel
information about Japan found within
the covers to plan your next trip over!
Note: 8 volume set featuring jStyle issues 13 - 17, and jSnow issues 1 - 3.

DAIWA ROYAL HOTEL D-PREMIUM
KANAZAWA
Note: Reservations are
subject to availability.
Period of validity: Until 30
June 2020. Bookings overpeak periods including
the Christmas and New
Year period, and Golden
Week may be refused.
Accommodation taxes tobe paid by guests. Rooms
cannot be specified
and may differ from thepromotional image.

jStyle issue 18 │ 15

NEWS Tokyo 2020

TOKYO
2020
Olympics andParalympics

Japan will finally hold its first
Olympics in 56 years when the world
focuses on Tokyo in 2020. While I’msure you are all very excited to see
the athletes battle it out at various
events, there are actually quite afew exciting places around the event
venues where you can experience
Japanese culture for yourself. Joinme through this feature where I will
introduce you to some recommended
spots around venues of events
popular amongst Australians and New
Zealanders. Hopefully this will help
you along on your travels outside of
the Games themselves!

16 │ jStyle issue 18

OLYMPIC STADIUM
OLYMPICS:
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
Athletics, Football

PARALYMPICS:
Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Athletics

The Olympic Stadium is where the opening
and closing ceremonies will be held andserves as the face of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic
Games. This national stadium was used as
an Olympic stadium when Tokyo hosted
Japan’s first Games in 1964; it will be reborn
as a new venue come 2020.
No doubt all eyes will be on this venue, notonly because it serves as the main Olympic
stadium, but because of its striking design.
The concept behind this design was to create
a “stadium in forest”. The overall height ofthe stadium has been kept as low as possible
to help it blend in with the lush greenery of
the Meiji Jingu Gaien around it, and eaves
have been installed around the structure todirect comforting breezes to the seating areas.

Design Works andConstruction Worksof Taisei Corporation,
Azusa Sekkei Co.,Ltd.
and Kengo Kuma
and Associates JV/
Courtesy of JSC*The renderings areintended to show
conceptual image
at completion andmay subject tochange. The greenery
is a projection of
approximately 10
years after completion.

TOKYO STADIUM
OLYMPICS:
FootballModern Pentathlon (Swimming, Fencing, Riding, Laser-Run)
Rugby©Tokyo 2020

Tokyo Stadium was a major venue
for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Perhaps the rugby fanatics out there
are more familiar with this place as
the venue for the Australia vs Wales
match during the tournament.
Football (of the round-ball variety)matches are also often played here.
There are plenty of things to
see and do around the venue
itself, such as: a visit to the Tokyo
Racecourse, where famous horseraces are held; a tour of the Suntory
Musashino Brewery; or a stop by
the 1,300-year-old Jindaiji Temple,
for visitors all around to get a nonsports fix. Also found nearby isthe “Olympic Marathon Turning
Point Monument”, which marks theturning point for the 1964 Tokyo
Olympic marathon. Take a stroll overto see a part of history while on yourtrip to see history in the making.

ARIAKE TENNIS PARK
These eaves are an important element oftraditional Japanese architecture and draw
from Japanese knowledge to build a constructwith a reduced impact on the environment.
Japanese-sourced timber and steel have beencombined to form the roofs that are essential
to Japanese architecture and give birth to a
design emanating the warmth of trees. On
the top floor of the stadium is an esplanade
known as “the forest of the skies” spanningapproximately 850 metres around and features
an observation space offering great seasonalviews of the city skyline. This stadium is sure
to become a must-go sightseeing spot outsideof the Olympic Games, so make sure you drop
on by to visit this venue that holds a historicalspot in the united heart of Japan.

OLYMPICS:
TennisPARALYMPICS:
Wheelchair Tennis

This venue is said to be the Japanese sacredgrounds for tennis since it serves as the venue forrenowned pro tennis matches. It also known as
a place brimming with lush nature as it featuresa promenade and jogging course in its surrounds
covered by trees, amongst other greenery.
Nearby, you can find: the VenusFort, a themepark styled shopping centre designed to replicate
a medieval European town; the Fuji Television
studios where you can have a sneak peek at thefacilities; and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, a large
entertainment facility that offers virtual reality

Conceptual image following the Olympic Games as of January 2019 ©Tokyo 2020and other fun experiences to keep you highly
entertained outside of the Olympics. Not far
from the AQUA CiTY ODAIBA shopping mallis a sightseeing spot where you can find a 1/7thsized replica of the Statue of Liberty. There isalso the Toyosu Fish Market nearby, which justhappens to be one of the largest fish markets inthe world.

jStyle issue 18 │ 17

NEWS Tokyo 2020

OI HOCKEY STADIUM
OLYMPICS:
HockeyTrack and field, baseball, tennis, and otherfacilities are combined together in this largescale sports park built in the Oi Pier Ocean
Park. The venue has been built especially forthe 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and will
be used as a multi-purpose sports facility for
sports, such as hockey, following them.
Within the park grounds where the venue
can be found are places to fish, as well as
areas where Aussies can scratch their BBQ
itch by cranking up one of the grills there.
BBQ facilities are available for rent andBBQ ingredients can be purchased on thespot, so there’s no excuse to not strap on an
apron and get those fires roaring. Nearby
you can also find Seseragi no Mori (Forestof Streams), where you can do a spot of bird

Conceptual image following the Olympic Games as of January 2019 ©Tokyo 2020

or insect watching amongst the ponds andcreeks, or visit the Sakura Hiroba (Cherry
Blossom Square) to enjoy the popular
Japanese pastime of seeing the cherry
blossoms in full bloom in the spring.

TOKYO AQUATICSCENTRE
OLYMPICS:
Aquatics (Swimming, Diving, Artistic
Swimming)

PARALYMPICS:
Aquatics (Swimming)

This venue will also be newly constructed
for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and will
be used to hold international swimmingcompetitions as a national aquatics centre,
as well as a swimming facility for citizens touse upon the conclusion of the Games. Also
found nearby is the Tatsumi Water Polo
Centre, which has served as the venue formany international events and is the official
venue for water polo during the Olympics.
The Tokyo Aquatics Centre will be built
in the Tatsumi-no-Mori Seaside Park – aplace overflowing in greenery featuring
facilities such as a rugby field, golf course,
and a dog park. In the surrounds is the

18 │ jStyle issue 18

Conceptual image following the Olympic Games as of January 2019 ©Tokyo 2020

Tatsumi-Sakura Bridge, which features amodern-design that harmonises with theenvironment. The view of the skyscrapers
from the bridge is absolutely stunning andmight not be as well known as it deserves tobe. Next to the Tatsumi-no-Mori Seaside
Park is the Tatsumi-no-Mori Green Park,
which is known as another great cherry
blossom spot during the spring, and also
features a playground making it the perfectplace for families.

©Tokyo 2020

TSURIGASAKI SURFING BEACH
OLYMPICS:
Surfing

Surfers from all around the world flock to this beach in the
pursuit of some of the world’s best waves. Make sure to notethat this venue is not in Tokyo, but in the neighbouring
Chiba prefecture. This beach is known as the “nami-noridojo” (training grounds for wave-riders) for the numberof pro and advanced surfers who gather here, and has also
produced a number of formidable surfers on the pro circuit.
Surfboards and wetsuits are available for rental at the
local Ichinomiya Tourist Information Centre, and surfing
experiences are offered here as well, making it a breeze forvisitors to try their hand at surfing without lugging aroundany gear from home. You can also try some horse-riding
here or visit a shrine if you are so inclined. Rent a bicyclefrom just outside the train station and ride along the seaside
to enjoy the great sights on offer.

Did you know that there arepeople around to help if you findyourself lost in Tokyo? Volunteer
guides have been placed aroundTokyo to help tourists on theirtravels. Please take note thatthese volunteer guides are
dressed differently and go bydifferent names depending onwhether you visit during the
Olympic Games or outside ofthat period. Rest assured thatthey’ll be easy to spot in theirbright, traditional Japanese blue
ichimatsu (checkered) outfits asthey stand around the city.
The volunteers can be spottedin famous tourist areas such as
Asakusa and Ginza, regardlessof when you happen to arrive inTokyo. During the Olympic andParalympic Games, there are alsoplans for them to be stationed
around event venues, Haneda
Airport, and main train stations
such as Tokyo and Shinjuku.
They will be ready to give you
directions using pamphlets
and other means, as well asrecommend some sightseeing
spots to you. Some of the guides
also offer assistance in English,
so don’t be shy andapproach one ofthem if you’re inneed of a little
guidance.

©Tokyo Prefecture

LOST IN TOKYO?
ASK A LOCAL!

Tokyo Tourism Volunteers – Before/
After the Olympics

There are also a range ofexperiences to be had regardlessof whether you happen to visiting
before, during, or after the
Olympic and Paralympic period
and separate to the services
offered by the Tokyo Tourism
Volunteer Guides. Thirteen tours
are available such as visits to
Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, a tour
around Hamarikyu Gardens to seea traditional Japanese garden, oreven experiences to make washi(Japanese paper). Participants will
only need to pay for travel andentry fees (including those for thetwo guides), making these tours
great value. In fact, some tours
require no money whatsoever.
Tours must be reserved between
one month to three days inadvance, so hop online and bookyour spot now!
gotokyo.org/en/index.html

City Cast(City Volunteers) –During the Olympics©Tokyo 2020

jStyle issue 18 │ 19

Give
Japanese
Rice aGo

20 │ jStyle issue 18

Rice GOURMET

If you know a thing or two about Japan, then you must knowthat the Japanese absolutely love their rice. Japan is said to havestarted producing rice approximately 4,000 – 5,000 years ago. White rice
has been an essential part of the Japanese diet ever since the methods to growthe grain were passed down from the Korean Peninsula. This feature will show
you just how much love the Japanese have for this humble staple and hopefully
turn you into a fellow Japanese-rice fan, too.

A nutritionally well-balanced rice

The carbohydrates that are part of the composition ofrice are one of the three major nutrients essential tobuilding a healthy body. Once the body breaks downthese carbohydrates into glucose, it is then used by the
body as a source of energy. This glucose is the sourceof energy that keeps the brain ticking over and rice
is abundant in this particular nutrient. Along withcarbohydrates, rice also contains protein – a nutrient
essential for healthy blood and muscles, as well as
various vitamins and minerals. In short, rice is an
excellent, nutritionally well-balanced food source.

It has also been said that rice is the perfectfood for those having issues losing weight.
Unlike breads and noodles, which are made ofwheat flour and other finely ground grains, rice
is more slowly digested and absorbed since it iseaten as whole grains. This then helps to reducesnacking in between meals because it keeps you
feeling fuller for longer, and as a result of this,
your body releases the fat-storing hormones
more slowly, which is then said to suppress fat
storage. Perhaps the secret to the many slimmer
Japanese people walking around the streets canbe found in the rice?
jStyle issue 18 │ 21

GOURMET Rice

Unyielding research behind Japanese rice

There are many countries, other than Japan, that rely
on rice as their main food source, however, none ofthese countries receive as much praise for their ricethan the land of the rising sun. One of the reasons
behind this reputation lies in the selective-breeding
research that has taken place over the last 100 years.
There are approximately 900 different varieties of riceregistered in Japan. New varieties continue to pop up
every year in order to produce rice that is suited to
the Japanese climate. This is how Japan continues tomaintain its high-quality rice production.
Of the many different varieties, the following list
contains the most widely known amongst the Japaneseand foreigners alike. Be sure to give them all a taste toexperience all the different qualities they possess.

KOSHIHIKARI:This is the most widely
produced and eaten variety
in Japan. It has the perfectbalance of stickiness andfirmness.
YUMEPIRIKA:
A variety known for its chewy
texture. Mostly grown in
Hokkaido.
AKITAKOMACHI:
A variety known for its
great chew and balanced
sweetness. Mostly grown in
Akita prefecture.
HITOMEBORE:
A variety known for its wellbalanced stickiness and soft
mouth feel. Grown all around
Japan.
HAENUKI:A variety of rice with theperfect balance of firmness
and chew. Mostly grown inYamagata prefecture.
SASANISHIKI:
A variety known for its great
sheen when steamed, andperfect balance between
stickiness and firmness.
NANATSUBOSHI:A variety known for its
clean taste. Mostly grown in
Hokkaido.

“

Onigiri are balls of ricegently pressed by hand andare a highly convenient
food since they can beeaten almost anywhere.
22 │ jStyle issue 18

Make an onigiri for a simple treat

An article about Japanese rice wouldn’t be complete
without at least mentioning the ubiquitous onigiri.
No doubt many readers have already seen charactersin movies or anime taking tasty bites out of thesesatisfying staples. Onigiri are balls of rice gently
pressed by hand and are a highly convenient foodsince they can be eaten almost anywhere. Japanesepeople have always loved onigiri as a food on the gosince they can be eaten with one hand and don’t
require any chopsticks to munch away at them. Thesedays it is almost the go-to food for business people
and they are easy to find since they are sold at all
convenience stores in Japan. Various ingredients areused to fill these rice balls, such as ikura (salmonroe), umeboshi (salted plums), and even beef.
Each store and region has its own uniquespin on these food items, so be sure totravel around the country to findthe perfect onigiri to fill yourbelly. In fact, there has been a
recent increase in the numberof places that specialise in
selling onigiri, so pack your bags
for a rice-balling trip to Japan!

Fill up on someJapanese ricein Australia
The following pages are filled with handy information for Japanese rice fans.
Arm yourself with this knowledge to eat Japanese rice in Australia and enjoy
various different types of the rice in your own home!
Specialist rice ball purveyors with theJapanese tick of approval - MUSUBIYAMUSUBIYA, a specialist purveyor of rice balls
based in Sydney, has been recently making therounds in the local Japanese community for its
high-quality offerings. This establishment has
a strong focus on using Japanese-grown rice,which they cook in clay pots (a technique eventhe average Japanese person finds difficult).
Clay pots are traditional Japanese cooking
vessels that allow rice to be cooked at a slower
pace due to their low thermal conductivity.
Rice cooked in clay pots is said to draw out

the true sweetness and savoury qualities of ricethrough this slower cooking method. Whilecontrolling the intensity of heat and levels ofwater is difficult and can be tedious, this is thesecret to cooking delicious rice. As the clay pot
continues to remain hot after the heat has been

turned off, the rice is given the opportunity toslowly steam and release any excess moisture,
resulting in perfectly plump individual grainsof rice. The amount of water used and level ofheat applied to the clay pot is adjusted each day
according to the temperature and humidity.
MUSUBIYA also offers delivery services intheir efforts to offer delicious morsels, without
the hassle, to as many people as possible. While
rice balls are generally said to be at their peakdeliciousness when warm and freshly made, thisestablishment has gone through many processes
to figure out the perfect level of firmness of
the rice, and seasoning of the fillings to ensure
their products are tasty even after they’vecooled down. Plans are already in the making
for rice balls using brown rice for the healthconscious, takikomi-gohan (rice cooked withbroth and various ingredients), mazekomigohan (rice mixed with different seasonings andingredients), and other options. Does an ebi-ten
musubi (tempura prawn rice ball), rice ballwrapped in grilled meat, or spam rice ball soundgood to you? Then hop onto the MUSUBIYA
website and try a tasty rice ball or two today!
Tel: 0422-472-488
Email: musubiyaau@gmail.com
Web: www.musubiya-au.com

Rice-ball specialists

MUSUBIYA

Complete focus on specially-chosen ingredientsand Japanese-grown rice. Rice balls made withheart and soul for the satisfaction of all. These riceballs will fill you with joy and surprise.
musubiyaau@gmail.com
https://www.musubiya-au.com/

delivery only
8557MUSU

jStyle issue 18 │ 23

GOURMET RiceJAPANESE STYLESUSHI RICE

Cook some SunRice Japanese rice at home

SunRice is the largest manufacturer and distributorof rice in Australia and has a major influence on the
supply of rice within Australia. The company was
founded in 1950 and in non-drought years, produces
an average of 500,000 tonnes of rice every year. The
company also specialises in growing a niche variety ofrice only grown in a small number of countries.
The Riverina region of NSW is said to be an ideal
location for rice growing because of its fertile soil,
temperate climate and the perfect level of sunlightthat shines over the area. SunRice conducts its own
research and development in order to cultivate
different varieties of rice. Seeds are carefully managed
so they do not mix with other seeds during thecultivation process. Quality is also strictly controlled
and SunRice's Australian-grown rice can be traced
all the way from cultivation through to distribution.
This quality assurance system is all part of thecompany’s Pure Seed Program.
24 │ jStyle issue 18

Picking up a bag of rice grown and manufactured
by SunRice is simple since they are sold at major
supermarkets. Rest assured that if you don’t havea rice cooker, then a pot will do just the trick forcooking some delicious rice. Grab yourself a bag andcook up some delicious rice at home today!

Rice developed especiallyfor making sushi. This
uniquely smooth rice isfirmer than regular rice sothat it does not become wet
and soggy when mixed withsushi vinegar. It also has acharacteristically fragrantaroma and natural sweetness.

Web: sunrice.com.au

KOSHIHIKARI RICE
Rice produced for general
Japanese cuisine. Highly
versatile and can suit all
Japanese dishes. Known for
its stickiness, aroma, andnatural sweetness.

®

GOURMET Tea Culture— Why did ITO EN decide to growgreen tea in Australia?

INTERVIEW

Australian-grown

Organic
Green
Tea

Green tea has been embedded in the lives ofJapanese people throughout the ages. This
humble tea has garnered plenty of attention
for the beauty and health benefits owing to
the high concentration of catechin, caffeine,
vitamins and minerals found within it, and isvery much loved all around the world. ITO
EN, Japan’s largest manufacturer of green
tea, grows green tea in the fertile soil ofthe Victorian Alpine Region, so we decided
to speak to the managing director of theAustralian branch – Mr. Masashi Sato.
26 │ jStyle issue 18

We began looking into the growing ofgreen tea in Australia from the 1990s
since it would allow us to have a supplyof green tea all year round due to the
opposite timing of seasons to Japan.
It may come as a surprise for readers tofind out that the environmental factors
ideal to growing tea are the same as thosefor growing wine grapes and tobacco
leaves. Victoria is known for producing
delicious wines thanks to differencein temperature between summer
and winter, as well as the extreme
temperature fluctuations between day
and night. This is what also makes it theperfect place to grow green tea as theseenvironmental factors are key. The 90s
also provided the perfect time for us toenter the green tea growing market inVictoria with the federal government
abolishing the production of tobacco
leaves in Australia.
— What is the difference
between green tea and black tea leaves?

There are two different types of tea
plants – “camellia sinensis var. assamica”
for black tea, and “camellia sinensis var.
sinensis” for Chinese and Japanese teas.
The black tea plant prefers tropicalclimates, which is why it is produced in theregion of Australia closer to Indonesia.
However, both black tea and green
tea come from the same species oftea tree – the “Camellia sinensis”.
Differences can be observed in the way
the two different teas are produced.
For black tea, the fresh leaves are left ina humid environment, after they havebeen picked, to ferment. As the leaves
ferment, they take on their signature
black colour. For green tea, the leaves
are immediately steamed after they havebeen picked to stop any fermentation.
Heating the leaves stops them fromoxidising, thus maintaining their freshlypicked green colour.
— What has been difficult about
producing green tea here?

The biggest obstacle we came across was
how to get tea plant seedlings from Japanthrough the strict Australian quarantine
process. Fumigation through steaming
was the first step required to kill off any
micro-organisms and harmful bacteriaon the seedlings. Of the thousands ofseedlings we brought over, only a few ofthem survived the fumigation process.
From there was another arduous roadof increasing the number of plants bycarefully taking cuttings and planting
them. Our harvest now spreads across 50
hectares of land.
— What characteristics can be found in
the green tea produced here?

There aren’t any pests or bacteria
targeting tea plants that exist here sincethese plants aren’t native to the region. In
other words, tea leaves can be produced
here using little to no pesticides. Thiswas one huge advantaged we picked
up on later down the track. The imageof cleanliness, safety, and peace ofmind brought about from the climate
and landscape of Australia played an
important role in the production of tea
as well. I think that there is a very highpossibility of Australian-made organic
green tea making a name for itself as aninternational brand.
Another unique characteristic thatcomes to mind is that there are eucalyptus
leaves floating around the tea plantations
from the surrounding trees. It is almost
impossible to avoid picking up eucalyptus
leaves when machine-picking green tea
buds. Perhaps there might be a faint hintof eucalyptus in the tea produced here.
Has anyone noticed this in their freshly
steeped cups of green tea?

What is Matcha Green Tea

From Our Farms to Your Cup
ITO EN, Japan's foremost purveyor of green tea, is taking the next step inthe vertical integration of its green tea industry in Australia.

ITO EN’s Tea Bagging Factory
ITO EN is building a brand new tea bagging facility next to its fresh leaf
processing plant in Wangaratta, North East Victoria. From next year, with
the introduction of the tea bagging facility, the tea leaf for Matcha Green
Tea teabags will be refined and packaged in Australia. This is to satisfy thegrowing demand for locally crafted green tea by Australian consumers.
The completion of this facility will put into place the final link in
the vertically integrated production system, from the growing of the tea
leaf to final tea bag product. This also marks ITO EN’s first verticallyintegrated production line outside of Japan, another big step forward.
ITO EN Australia has chosen as its first product to be the ITO EN Matcha
Green Tea teabag.

Matcha is the famous powdered green tea traditionally usedin the Japanese Tea Ceremony-Chado. The tea leaves used forMatcha powder are grown differently to ordinary green tea. In
particular the tea is shaded for more than 20 days before harvest
with 70 to 90% shade cloth. This results in the leaf being a deeper
more vibrant green colour as well as increasing the constituents
which give matcha its characteristic flavours, especially thedistinctive 'umami' taste (the fifth sensory taste discovered inmatcha) a savoury and subtly sweet flavour. These high quality
leaves are then finely ground in stone mills. The use of the wholeleaf results in a product that is rich in nutrients, in particular,
vitamin C and catechin antioxidants.
The tea leaves used to produce sencha are 100% grown in the
Alpine region in the north east of Victoria. Our growers have over
20 years experience in growing green tea. The tea is harvested inpartnership with ITO EN and transported to our factory in climate
controlled bins. ITO EN’s Australian artisan tea makers process
and refine Japanese style green tea from these fresh Australian
tea leaves.
ITO EN’s new teabags comprise Japanese matcha and Australiangrown sencha. The unique blend creates a beautiful aroma andmellow yet vibrant green infusion.

'Omotenashi'
We believe ITO EN’s green tea is a versatile tea to be shared by all people
from all cultures. Its biggest feature is the smooth taste that soothes yourthroat. It can be enjoyed at a formal dinner or with an Aussie breakfast. Thistea complements any occasion. It can be drunk with your meal or with anything
sweet. It is perfect as a morning refresher tea or a crisp purifier accompanies yourmeal. It is healthy, relaxing and a good for all people from all walks of life.
In the tradition of Chado, the host entertains the guests with deliciously
prepared tea. This act of hospitality is called ‘Omotenashi’. We hope you enjoy
the Matcha Green Tea teabag proudly made by ITO EN with the same spirit of hospitality.

GOURMET ProductJAPANESE CHEF:
HIDEO DEKURAThe historyof Japanese
knives and its
influence
Hocho-shiki (knife ceremony) is a traditional Japaneseritual dating back to the ages. The mere existence of
this ritual shows just how deep-rooted knives are in
Japanese cooking and daily life. We spoke to Hideo
Dekura, a Japanese chef based in Sydney and qualified
hocho-shiki instructor, about the traditions behind theritual and the influence knives have on cooking.
28 │ jStyle issue 18

Born into a family running a
Japanese restaurant in Tokyo.
Whilst learning about Japanesecuisine from his father, he also
learned the Iemoto-Shijo-styleof hocho-shiki to polish up his
traditional cooking skills. In the
1970s, he settled in Australia.
He has ventured into various
industries such as catering,
restaurants, and food consulting,and has also published a numberof books. His contributions toJapanese cuisine have beenrecognised three times by
the Japanese government:
in 2007 with an award from
the Minister of Agriculture,
Forestry, and Fisheries;
in 2015 as a recipient ofcommendation from the
Minister of Foreign Affairs;
and his appointment in 2016as the Japanese Cuisine
Goodwill Ambassador.

A 400-year-old paintingof knife masters―"Shichi-ju-ichi Shokunin
Uta-awase, Hocho-shi"

Q: What exactly is the ritual of hocho-shiki?

A: While various theories exist, hocho-shiki is aritual that was performed 1,300 years ago during
the Nara period as an imperial court event. It issaid to have originated as a way to present fish,poultry, and other produce to Emperor Koko,
the 58th emperor of Japan. Emperors at the time
were considered to be kami (gods), and the act ofhumans touching food to be served to the emperor
would contaminate it. As such, food was sliced up
using only a knife and a pair of chopsticks to avoid
touching it with human hands.
After 1,300 years of history, the ritual of
hocho-shiki still continues to be performed
to this day at Japanese shrines and temples
to express gratitude to the gods for bountiful
harvests. I have also performed this ritual myself
a number of times in Australia. The modern
iteration of the ritual still involves the wearingof an eboshi (headgear of court nobles), andhitatare (flowing dress of court nobles), and theact of filleting fish using only a pair of cooking
chopsticks and a knife, without the hands evertouching the fish itself, remains intact.
Q: Has the hocho-shiki ritual had any
influence on current Japanese cooking?

A: It certainly has. Appreciation of food forms
the foundations of hocho-shiki. Each and every
beautiful, meaningful motion of the ritualshows respect towards
food; and the detailed,thorough cuts of theknife are symbolic of
the mentality to waste
nothing. I believe thisphilosophy has been passed through the 1,300
years leading to the present and is reflected in
the spirit behind modern Japanese cooking.
Q: For the act of filleting meats to become
a ritual, knives must play a significant role incooking. Is this a correct assumption to make?

A: That’s right. In fact, do you know what dishis a Japanese cuisine original? While it used to beserved in vinegar, much like namasu (a dish of
raw fish and vegetables seasoned with vinegar),
it is none other than sashimi. The flavoursof this well-known dish vary quite drasticallydepending on how the fish is sliced. If the sliced
cross-section is uneven, then the fibres of the fish

collapse, leading to a drop in freshness; whereas
if there is a sharp, clean cut, then the freshness ismaintained, and the texture is pleasant, leading
to an enhanced flavour. This knowledge ofdifferent cuts impacting flavours must have been
why skilled chefs were known
as hocho-nin (knife wielders). I
believe that knives greatly impact
the quality of food, much inline with the way of thinking
centuries ago.
Q: What is the difference
between Japanese knives andWestern knives?

A: Sharpness. Whilst Western knives are easy
to maintain and have their own advantages, thesharpness of Japanese knives is phenomenal.
Force is not needed to slice using a Japaneseknife, and you are able to cut up food items
without destroying the fibres. These knives arealso produced with the wielder in mind, so it iswell-balanced in the hand, and almost feels as
if it is an extension of your own body. Japanese
knives can be difficult to maintain, but there issignificance behind putting in the effort for the
upkeep of a treasured tool. The more you use it,
the more it shows its true worth; the growing
desire to cherish Japanese knives is what makes
them so great.

o“Beyond the to

h

ls”

.kn
www
t t p : //

ives

and

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s to

s .co

m/

Knives and Stones
Unit 2, 2 Bishop St
St Peters, NSW 2044
02 8599 0898
sales@knivesandstones.com
8239KNIV

jStyle issue 18 │ 29

TRAVEL Kyoto

KYOTO

See All the Sights in

Arashiyama

30 │ jStyle issue 18

Spring brings in the cherry
blossoms; summer, the fresh
greenery; a kaleidoscope of leaves
in autumn; and a wonderland ofsnow in winter when the four facesof each season come to life in
the popular tourist destination of
Arashiyama in Kyoto. Alongside theTogetsu-kyo Bridge, the bamboo
grove, Okochi Sanso Villa, and avariety of temples and shrines as
must-see tourist attractions in thearea, there are also experiences
for foodies, hot-spring lovers, andculture junkies. While you could
easily spend days in the area,
reserving a day for Arashiyama
on your trip to Kyoto is highly
recommended.
Words and Photography: Yuriko Ishii

Arashiyama’s iconic
Togetsu-kyo Bridge

The Togetsu-kyo Bridge stands
proudly over the Katsura Riverflowing gently below it. This
landmark is symbolic of Arashiyama
and is the perfect place to start yourwalking tour of the area. The bridge(literally “moon-crossing bridge”)
is said to have been named in the
Kamakura period when the thenEmperor Kameyama (who reigned
between 1259 – 1274) noted that themoon appeared to cross the bridge as
he sailed on the night of a full moon.
The handrails on the bridge are madeof wood to blend into the beautiful
surrounds of Arashiyama, while thepiers and girders are
made of reinforced
concrete. For a great
way to see the bridge,
rent a boat and sail
down from the upperarea of Katsura River.

Located 30 minutes by foot from Arashiyama
Station on the Hankyu line in southern
Arashiyama is Nison-in Temple in north
Sagano. There are a number of places to checkout along the way, making it a whole day’s
worth of sight-seeing fun as you stroll and stop
on by. For those so inclined, there are a numberof shops around offering kimono rentals if you
wish to try out the popular trend of donning the
traditional garment to walk around the streets.

Ky o - t r a i n

Kyo-train, a limited express tourist train
with no reservations or express fare required.

Kyo-train special sightseeing train

Special trains run between Osaka-umeda
and Kyoto-kawaramachi of Hankyu Railway.

Kyo-train GARAKU

Kyo-train GAR AKU features seats facing thewindows as well as Japanese garden decorations,this train will make you feel like you’ve alreadystepped into the world of Kyoto.Kyo-train also hasseats made with Japanese traditional Tatami.
Operations : Saturdays,Sundays,and Holidays
Arashiyama

Stops at:

For more travel
information!

su
m
K a
ka yoto
wa ra
m
ac

tsu
ra

aji
Aw

ra
Ka

Kyo-trainKa

Kyo-train GARAKUOs
um akaed aJuso

KyoｰtrainGARAKUFor more ticket
information!

hi

Kyoｰtrain

8553HANK

jStyle issue 18 │ 31

TRAVEL Kyoto

Shrines and temples surroundedby nature

A tour of the many shrines and temples in thearea is a must on any visit to Arashiyama. Tenryuji Temple was constructed in 1339 by Takauji
Ashikaga to pray for the repose of Emperor GoDaigo with Muso Soseki appointed as the temple’s
first chief priest, and is also a recognised World
Heritage Site as part of the Historic Monumentsof Ancient Kyoto. The temple features Sogenchi
Garden, the first location to be designated asa Special Place of Scenic Beauty of Japan. The
elegance of period-style tradition intertwines in
perfect harmony with the Zen culture in this garden
and invokes different ambiences throughout theyear through the seasonal changes from the cherry
blossoms and azaleas, to the beautiful greeneryand winter landscapes. Be sure to check out the
impressive Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling ofthe Zen Meditation Hall while you’re there!
Nonomiya Shrine is also another spot to add
to your list. The deity Nonomiya is enshrined in
the main shrine, with the deity Atago (protectorof fire and victory) in the right shrine, and thedeities Shiramine Bezaiten (protector of arts),
Shirafuku Inari (protector of childbirth andbusiness), Oyama Bezaiten (protector of traffic
safety and wealth), and Nonomiya Daikokuten(protector of marriage)in the left shrine.
Located in the leftmost
area is the Turtle
Stone, which is said togrant your wish within
a year if you rub it
while you pray.

32 │ jStyle issue 18“

Worshippers
come from far
and wide to prayat this temple
for the variety ofdeities enshrined
withinA mystical bamboo
grove path andOkochi Sanso Villa

The symbolic path stretching through the bamboo
grove from Nonomiya Shrine to Okochi Sanso
Villa offers a 200-metre-long leisurely stroll tosoak up the mystical atmosphere of the surrounds.
Bamboo plants reach straight up towards the sky on
either side of this path, creating a breathtaking airof sheer beauty and wonder.
Okochi Sanso Villa was originally the holiday
home of famous period-film actor, Denjiro Okochi(1898 – 1962). He spent the last 30 years of hislife searching for eternal beauty, gradually building
his classical Japanese-style circuit garden. Beautiful
seasonal trees, such as pines, cherry blossoms, andmaple trees are found around the Daijokaku (mainhouse) where the old-capital atmosphere can beenjoyed, before hiking over to the tea house to
be greeted with a view of the Hozu River’s gentle
current stretching across below.

Enjoy delectable delights, shopping, and art

The western exit at the front of Arashiyama Station is lined withfamous Kyoto establishments. Within the free-flowing station,
free of ticket gates, are two-metre-tall poles wrapped in Kyotoprinted silk, covered in acrylic, and lit up with LED lights. There
are 600 of these poles placed around the station to create this“Kimono Forest” of mystery that has become a popular hot spot.
With the number of restaurants and stores around, the area isalways bustling with people.
The Arashiyama area puts on a showof eye-catching wonders throughout
the year, the pink, spring views of thecherry blossoms in full bloom (lateMarch to early April), and the gorgeous
autumnal leaves (mid-November toearly December) are the best of the best.
Try dropping by popular sightseeing
destinations during the morning to beat
the rush of fellow tourists when you’rein the surrounds.

Elegance and luxury of traditional
Japanese styles and motifs

Enjoy your stay at the flagship hotel of Daiwa
Royal Hotel City with the famous Japanesehospitality spirit!

Lobby

Executive Lounge

Executive Premium
Double RoomHolel Exterior
8558DAIW_2

jStyle issue 18 │ 33

CAMPTON

A new style of accommodation
harmonising history and modernity
CAMPTON offers ultimate levels of comfort through“machiya” (townhouses) located in the historicalcity of Kyoto that have been renovated and had
new life breathed into them as accommodation
establishments. Make your stay a stylish and relaxing
one in the machiya sharing their history with thesurrounding buildings and temples of the former
capital city of Japan – Kyoto.
Words: Yuriko Ishii

Kyoto is not only known for its
traditional, historic sites, but also forthe old machiya lining the streets. Bothlocal and international tourists comeflocking to the city to see these beautiful
buildings. The increase in restaurants
utilising these machiya also comes asa welcome movement. Spearheading
this machiya craze are the particularly
popular buildings found in Kyoto.
RENOVATING THE MACHIYA ANDPRESERVING THE TRADITIONALTOWN FEEL

The vision of Masao Ono, CEO
of CAMPTON, was to renovate
34 │ jStyle issue 18

and protect the machiya withhis policy to preserve the Kyoto
townscape. He has always loved oldarchitecture, and his attention was
drawn to the method of preserving
old architectural structures in orderto build modern establishments
and maintain ageing buildings.
CAMPTON is a modern example ofpreserving the charming townshipof the old capital through therenovation of traditional structuresto create lodging facilities.
Within the walls of these historicalbuildings are establishmentswith new life breathed into themas parts of CAMPTON. This
accommodation facility provides anatmosphere, facilities, service, andcomfort at a price point to offer
luxury. Machiya, while charming,
tend to have a reputation of lacking
comfort or functionality, withsometimes cold floors or draughty
rooms. This is not the case at
CAMPTON with all potential
defects addressed to create a hotellike establishment at the peak of
comfort. In fact, of the many machiya
accommodation facilities found
all over Kyoto, it would not be an
exaggeration to say that CAMPTON
has created the perfect combinationof a machiya and hotel to suit allof the needs of potential guests.
This establishment is also uniquein that it offers a number of rooms
on the premises, whereas manyother machiya only offer the wholebuilding to be booked for one or anumber of guests.
EXPERIENCE THE CHARMS OF
KYOTO IN THIS LUXURIOUS ANDCALMING SPACECAMPTON is spread out amongst
the popular locations in Kyoto
with a total of 11 rooms in andaround Kiyomizu, Kyoto station,
and Nishijin for guests to choose
according to where they wish to visit.
One of the many drawcards of thisestablishment is the spacious rooms
constructed using high-quality solid
wood selected from the best Japanesetimber available. All suites have sitting
rooms with tatami floors for guests tostretch their legs and relax, with baths
made of umbrella pines to soak in andsoothe the tired and weary. Rooms
are also fitted with kitchens stockedwith not only dining ware, but alsoa fridge, microwave, coffee machine,
kettle, and other utensils for those
who wish to cook. The addition of a
washing machine also makes longer
stays a breeze. A TV, air conditioner,
heated floors, and Wi-Fi also comesstandard so that guests with families
or friends can feel at home all
throughout the year.
Meals are not generally included,
but breakfast or dinner services orrestaurant bookings can be arranged
for. A number of restaurants utilisingseasonal produce can also be found in
the surrounds with a wide variety tosuit all cravings and add to the joy of
travelling. CAMPTON also works incollaboration with various specialist
facilities to provide guests withJapanese cultural experiences such astea ceremonies, flower arrangement,
kimono fitting, Zen meditation,origami, and cooking classes.
Many large-scale hotels and hot
spring inns provide guests withrooms topped with facilities suchas restaurants, gift shops, and otherplaces to undertake activities. While
this provides guests with comfort
and convenience, it also adds to thegrowing number of travellers spending
less time exploring the streets andmore time indoors. CAMPTON’s
policy is to focus on providing

comfortable accommodation,whilst also helping to spur on therevitalisation of the city throughcollaborating with other businesses
and encouraging guests to visit local
restaurants and shops, and participate
in cultural activities.
The number of international
visitors flocking to Japan continues
to increase over the years, as do thenumber of returning visitors to
Kyoto and other locations across thecountry. For returning guests, there isnothing more comforting or freeing
than staying at an establishment thatcombines the best aspects of longterm accommodation options andhotels. CAMPTON gives returning
visitors the opportunity to take a
step further into the charms Japan
has to offer, and provides first-time
visitors and their families a space withsuperior comfort.

kyoto-campton.com
jStyle issue 18 │ 35

CULTURE ProductOMOSHIROI BLOCK
Flip through to reveal the beautiful creations
Garnering attention around the world as a
top ten trending topic in the United States,
given coverage on the Euro News, andvarious other outlets, is a piece of Japanesestationery that received the Grand Awardwith Special Mention at the 2018 DFA
Design for Asia Awards – the OMOSHIROIBLOCK memo pad.
TRIAD Inc. is the Japanese design company
behind these memo pads created under thepremise of “building on moments to carve out
memories” and “continuing your journeys fromon top of your desk”. This “memory x momentx sculpture” concept is brought to life bymaking memo pads with delicate craftsmanshipusing pieces of high-quality paper. What makesthese memo pads so unique is the sight of adetailed piece of art being uncovered every
time you take a piece of paper from the block.
Once you have completely used the block, themasterpiece revealed will either be a beautiful
piece of architecture or a typically Japanesedesign as selected by the company’s designers.
As we walk you through the various
OMOSHIROI BLOCK designs, you will seethat they can be customised to suit your needs,much like the pieces created in collaboration
with local governments. The company islooking forward to working with various
international companies and governments, so
if you’re thinking about getting some regional
branding or tourism promotion done thenfeel free to drop them a line. For those curious,
the word “OMOSHIROI” in Japanese means“interesting” or “fun”, which makes it theperfect name for a memo pad that offers endlessfun for everyone.
Have a look at the following creations to
get a sense of the types of OMOSHIROIBLOCKS available.

Asakusa
Asakusa is a local town ofTokyo that is considereda must-go byinternational visitors.
The Kaminarimon
serves as the entry to
Asakusa temple and isa symbolic landmark of
the locale. A closer lookat the final product will
reveal just how detailed
the creation is.

36 │ jStyle issue 18

Tokyo Tower
A famous symbol of Tokyo –Tokyo Tower. This tower was
once known as a radio tower,
but it no longer serves thispurpose after the constructionof Tokyo Sky Tree. It is now
a popular tourist facility
visited by many.

TakoyakiTakoyaki, octopus balls that can be eaten
at food stalls and are quite popular inAustralia, happen to be the soul food of
Osaka. There are many famous and wellknown takoyaki
establishments in
Osaka, so makesure you drop by
one if you findyourself there.

Clay figurine with clasping hands

Kyoto-HANA-

The work of art isuncovered as you
flip throughOne of OMOSHIROIBLOCKS’ most
iconic creations. This
piece is based on
the most renowned
and visited
temple in Kyoto– Kiyomizudera.
You can tell just
how accurate anddetailed this BLOCK
is when comparedto the actual temple.

This new creation is a particularly unique one made in collaboration with Aomori prefecturein the northern-most region of Honshu (the main island of Japan). The clay figurine wasfound in the city of Hachinohe, Aomori and is estimated to be 3,500 years old (late Jomon
period). It was recognised as a national treasure in 2009. It appears to be sitting down with
its hands clasped in its lap in prayer, hence the name “praying clay figurine”. Other than theruins where the clay figurine was found, Hachinohe is also home to various other places
such as the Sanriku Fukko National Park, where visitors canspot approximately 600 different species of plants (spring toautumn), as well as the beautiful sight of the grass in the parkin collaboration with the Tanesashi coast. Drop by Hachinohe
for a visit and have a profound moment with the ancient ruins.
The collaboration between thegrass and the Tanesashi coast in
Hachinohe is unforgettable.

Kyoto’s
Kiyomizudera
decorated inlightshttps://www.triad-japan.com/

WEBSITE

jStyle issue 18 │ 37

TRAVEL Ise-Shima

Ise-Shima
Ise Jingu and the scenic
coastline-city of Shima

Known as the sacred land of Japanese history
and culture, and home to one of Japan’s mostimpressive Shinto shrines is none other thanIse Jingu, located in Mie Prefecture.
Words and Photography: Naoto Ijichi

38 │ jStyle issue 18

Visiting Ise Jingu

Eight million people visit Ise Jingu every year.
The jinja (Shinto shrine) has become even moreof a talking point lately as this year saw it hosta number of special ceremonies related to thechanging of the Chrysanthemum throne fromthe former Emperor Akihito, to his son Emperor
Naruhito.
Ise Jingu, built over 2,000 years ago, refers
to a jinja in the Ise-Shima region comprised of
125 smaller jinja. Of these many jinja, the most
famous are the Naiku (Kotaijingu) and Geku
(Toyo’uke-daijingu), which are dedicated to
Amaterasu-Omikami and Toyo’uke-Omikami
respectively. It is the deity AmaterasuOmikami that the emperors of Japan are said tobe direct descendants of.
A visit to Ise Jingu can be as short as an houror span over days depending on which jinja
you choose to visit and how you plan out yourcourse. Stopping by the Naiku alone can takeup to two hours as you cross the 100-metrelong, wooden Uji-bashi Bridge and wanderaround the atmospheric grounds to soak up thesacred air within.

“

Ise Jingu, built
over 2,000 years
ago, refers to a
jinja in the IseShima region
comprised of 125
smaller jinja.

What is Shinto?

Shinto literally translates to “the way of the kami” (theword kami refers to gods or deities in Shinto) and has noclear origins owing to the fact that it developed naturallywith the country from ancient times. It is practiced
in some form by the majority of Japanese people. The
number of kami in Shinto is immense and they are said
to take on various forms, from the elements that makeup earth, to embodiments of nature, and even importantconcepts. Amaterasu-Omikami is considered to be thehighest of them all.
The construction of Ise Jingu

The Naiku, Geku, and 14 other related jinja are a selectfew of the 125 jinja that are built in the exact same
dimensions on adjacent sites every 20 years for sacredenshrining in a ritual known as Shikinen Sengu. A seriesof rituals takes eight years to complete, and was done
so most recently in 2013. Drop by the nearby Sengu
Museum to learn more about this ceremonial practice.
Ise Jingu, known as “the most sacred construction in
Japan”, may be a familiar journey into Shintoism for the
average Japanese person, however, it continues to fascinate
international tourists with its mystery upon every visit.
jStyle issue 18 │ 39

TRAVEL Ise-Shima

A stay on the Shima Peninsula

Staying a night or two in the area
during your travels to Ise Jingu from
Osaka, Kyoto, or Nagoya is highly
recommended – and not because of the
distance involved. A stay on the Shima
Peninsula is justified by the great
experience the Shima Kanko Hoteloffers. It served as the venue for the IseShima G7 Summit on May 2017 (aninternational meeting of world leaders
40 │ jStyle issue 18

from the G7 and EU). Ise-Shima
was chosen to host the prestigious
international gathering for its great
location, the view of the islands, calm
inlets, peaceful atmosphere, and thefood served by the hotel utilising theabundant and fresh local seafood.
Shima Kanko Hotel

The hotel features 3 different
buildings, “the Classic” featuring

GETTING TO ISE-SHIMA
By Train
Ise City is a two-hour train ride from Osaka, a onehour 30-minute train ride from Nagoya, and twohours and ten minutes from Kyoto on the Kintetsu
Railway. Hop off at Iseshi or Uji-Yamada stations
for easy access.
For a more luxurious journey, take the Kintetsu
Railway Shimakaze Premium Express operating toKashikojima Station from Kintetsu Osaka Namba
Station, Kyoto Station, and Nagoya Station, one
round trip daily.

rooms with a cultural air; “theBaysuites” featuring suites in every
room; and “the Club” which maintains
remnants of the hotel’s early past. Overin “the Club” is a café and wine bar by
the name of “Lien” with an interior
design featuring Togo Murano’s (thehotel’s architect) take on a traditional
Japanese house. Grab a seat in this bar
to enjoy a drop of some rare Japanesedistilled whisky. Guests of the hotel
can then enjoy the fine French cuisinethat was served to the world leaders
in attendance to the summit at therestaurant, La Mer, within the hotel
grounds.
Shima Kanko Hotel also has avariety of facilities, such as a gym, spa,
Japanese tea room (for tea ceremony
experiences), and an observation
deck. Gazing at the incredible AgoBay sunset on this deck is sure to give
your mind the calm respite it deserves
during your busy travels around
Japan. Additionally, there are a rangeof activities on offer at the hotel,
including: sea kayaking and cruises
on Ago Bay; guided cycling tours; andtraditional craft experiences.
Ise-Shima has been an area forworshippers, sightseers, and people
looking to escape the daily grind, torelax and enjoy themselves throughout
the ages. For visitors from overseas,
Ise Jingu and the Shima Peninsulaoffers travellers the opportunity to
get up close and personal with themagical world of Shinto on theirjourney to Ago Bay. Discover theancient traditions of Japan and have aunique experience at this resort locale
surrounded by glorious nature.

ACCESSING ISE JINGU
Ise Jingu Geku
This shrine is a five-minute walk from Iseshi Station.
Ise Jingu Naiku
From Ise Jingu Geku, this shrine is ten-minutebus or taxi ride. To get to Ise Jingu Naiku from
Ujiyamada Station you can hop onto a bus or taxi
for a 25-minute ride over.

ACCOMMODATION
Shima Kanko Hotel
The hotel is easily accessible from
Kashikojima Station. A two-minutelong Shuttle Bus ride will take you
straight to Shima Kanko Hotel theClassic, the Club, and the Baysuites.
+81 -599-43-1211

jStyle issue 18 │ 41

TRAVEL Koyasan

Over 1,200 years have passed since Kobo-Daishi
Kukai opened up his Shingon Buddhism practicing
hall, yet Koyasan is still known as a mysterious land of
devotion. Koyasan is found on a mountaintop basin at
an altitude of 900 metres and draped in thick natural
surrounds. It maintains an austere atmosphere notfound in the big cities, and is an attention-grabbing
spot for the beautiful natural views, temple and shrine
culture, and a range of other experiences.

KoyasanThe sacred grounds for Shingon Buddhism
as preached by Kobo-Daishi Kukai
Words: Yuriko Ishii

42 │ jStyle issue 18

Located in Wakayama prefecture, Koyasan is 85
kilometres south of Osaka (the second biggest
city after Tokyo), making it easily accessible bytrain or car. Hopping onto a train at Namba
Station (in central Osaka) on the Nankai line
to Hashimoto Station in Wakayama will takeapproximately 50 minutes. You can then takethe “Tenku” sightseeing train from Hashimototo the base of Koyasan – Gokurakubashi, whichis connected to a cable-car platform. The next
40 minutes can be spent enjoying the beautiful
mountains, rivers, and other natural sights
through the large carriage windows as the train
carves through the steep and sharply-curving
tracks of the precarious mountain trail. Then,
once you see the distinctive vermillion-colour ofthe bridge at Gokurakubashi Station, transfer
over to the cable-car there for a ride that takes
you 328 metres straight up to Koyasan Station.
There is also a handy limousine bus that cantake you directly to Koyasan (travel time
approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes) from
Kansai International Airport.

Monk training grounds

Koyasan is a popular sightseeing destination
due to its listing as a World Heritage Site,
and is known as a religious mountaintop citywith a concentration of temples and historic
landmarks within its 1.5-kilometre radius.
Kobo-Daishi Kukai picked the perfect spot toopen his esoteric Buddhism dojo (practicinghall), well away from the hustle and bustle ofthe city, and surrounded by vast nature.
Kukai was born in 774 in Sanuki, which is
now a part of Kagawa prefecture. In 804, hetravelled to China for study, and met the top
authority on the Shingon School of Buddhism,
Keika-Ajari (Master Huiguo), before becoming
his official successor. Upon returning toJapan in 806, he continued to pray for thehappiness of all living things as a practitionerof Buddhism; became an elite literary scholar
known for his beautiful prose with elegant
pen strokes; and a social worker who dug
out springs to create a pond for the people,
amongst a range of other activities. He carved
his name into the annals of history as the best
philosopher Japan has ever produced. In 816,
Kukai then established Kongobu-ji as a temple
for the discipline of Zen, and fell into a deep
meditation in Koyasan in 835. He entered intoa deep meditation in the shrine of Okuno-in

jStyle issue 18 │ 43

TRAVEL Koyasan

in order to eternally pray for those lost or inpain by acting on his desire to raise people tohelp others, and pray for the peace and safetyof both Japan and all of society. This is how
Kukai lives on in Okuno-in, and gave birth toworshippers who pray for world peace and thehappiness of others.
An overwhelming amount of timeand intense training is involved to reachenlightenment in the common teachings of
Buddhism. The Shingon School of Buddhism
teaches of attaining Buddhahood during
life (sokushinjobutsu). One is said to be able
to reach enlightenment by sealing theirhands, preaching the words of Shingon, and44 │ jStyle issue 18

completely giving themselves to the principal
image of Buddha. Doing so will reveal one’s
Buddha-nature and lead to enlightenment.
Koyasan continues to be a place where manymonks currently train, with Danjo Garan (withits Konpon Daito Pagoda at the centre) serving
as the headquarters for the "Dojo of Learning"(gakumon no dojo), and the Kobo-Daishi
Mausoleum in Okuno-in as the heart of thesacred place for worshippers.
A record left by Jesuit missionary, Francis
Xavier, on his visit to Japan in the 16th century
mentioned that “Koyasan is one of the six major
schools of medieval Japan”. In the same period,

missionary Luis Frois referred to Koyasan as “themost visited place of pilgrimage in all of Japan”.
Two major sacred sites– Okuno-in and Danjo Garan

Okuno-in and Danjo Garan are the two
major sacred sites found on the mountain.
They continue to be the learning grounds formonks to train, and where many worshippers
frequently gather.
Beyond the “Gobyo no hashi” (Gobyo
Bridge) is considered to be a sacred region;across this bridge and atop the stone steps iswhere the magnificent “Toro-do” (lanternhall) can be found. In this place is the cavewhere Kobo-Daishi Kukai continues his
deep meditation, and also the location of
the “Kobo-Daishi Mausoleum”, which is theclosest place to the cave where worshippers
can go and pay their respects. Japanese cedars
that have been standing for 700 years line theapproximately two-kilometre-long approachfrom the Kobo-Daishi Mausoleum to the
Ichi no hashi (bridge) along with gravestones,
cenotaphs, and memorial towers of people
from all walks of life – from royalty and feudallords, to accomplished writers and commoners.
The open-mindedness to accept all people,
regardless of their differences, comes from theKoyasan mentality that has been passed down
for over 1,200 years and also what makes theplace so captivating.
Nineteen structures, including the Konpon
Daito Pagoda, the Kon-do, the Mie-do, andRokkaku Kyuzo, stand proudly within the
Danjo Garan area, which was the first place
Kukai prepared for the establishment of Shingon
Buddhism. The Konpon Daito Pagoda was built
to be synonymous with the Konpon Dojo andstands at 48.5-metres tall. It is the first twostoried pagoda ever built in Japan. Inside of thisbeautifully eye-catching, scarlet pagoda is the“Dainichi Gyorai Mandala”, whilst the outsidefeatures four Buddha statues in its surrounds.

Depicted on the 16 pillars of the pagoda are
the “16 Bodhisattvas” and the “8 Patriarchs”
on the four corners, while the pagoda itself isa three-dimensional mandala. Witnessing the
intricate detail on this beautiful pagoda is sure
to leave everyone speechless. Another uniquestructure is the beautiful hexagonal-shaped
Rokkaku Kyuzo or “hexagonal depository of
the scriptures” that is fitted with handles on the
podium and can be rotated. One rotation of thebuilding is said to have the same virtue of one
read through the complete Buddhist scriptures.
This unique opportunity to rotate such ahistoric structure is definitely an experience
worth having.
jStyle issue 18 │ 45

TRAVEL Koyasan
Finally, the Kongobu-ji (the main temple of
Shingon Buddhism) is located near the centreof the mountain sanctuary. When KoboDaishi Kukai founded Koyasan, the wholearea itself was known as the Kongobu-ji Head
Temple and was a complete mountain precinct,
however, from the Meiji period to the present
the name only refers to the one temple. This
area is bursting with sights to see from Japanesearchitecture, to beautiful fusuma paintings andsculptures filled with history.
A pilgrim experience

Amongst the austere atmosphere andabsolutely breathtaking natural surroundsof Koyasan were formally 2,000 different
temples. Currently, there are 117 temples
with half of them offering temple lodging.
One experience that absolutely must be had
during a trip to Koyasan is a stay in a temple– a shukubo experience. Shukubo refers to
lodging for pilgrims or visitors to a temple.
These guesthouses were originally provided
for monks, or pilgrims looking to cleanse theirminds and bodies, however, the number offacilities welcoming tourists have increased inrecent years, and many of them offer facilities
and services on par with regular Japanese inns.
Many temples also offer a range ofexperiences such as ajikan – a form of
meditation taught in Shingon Buddhism
that was spread through Japan during the
Heian period by Kobo-Daishi Kukai; Zen
meditation, and sutra copying. Guests
are allocated tatami rooms on their stayat a shukubo and will be treated to someshojin ryori (vegetarian Buddhist monkcuisine), which is made using grains, beans,vegetables and other non-meat ingredients.
There is also the opportunity to get a peekinto the life of a monk by participating in

Web: en.visitwakayama.jp

46 │ jStyle issue 18

experiences such as the morning service ofthe chief priest reading the sutra. The rare
chance to experience the history of Koyasan
and be immersed in the sacred atmosphere
continues to garner the attention of both
domestic and international visitors.
Joining up on a monk-guided tour leading
to the Okuno-in mausoleum is a great chance
to see the area during a shukubo stay. A traineemonk will give their insights about topics
including, legendary Koyasan Kobo-Daishi
Kukai tales; moral Buddhist teachings; andwhat it’s like to be a monk in training, over
the two kilometres from Ichi no hashi tothe old approach. This tour, also offered in
English, exposes participants to a mysterious
and solemn atmosphere that cannot be
had during the daytime (Awesome Tours:
awesome-tours.jp/en).
Hone in your five senses by getting closer tothe history and temple culture of Koyasan.

Facebook: Visit Wakayama

Instagram: @visitwakayama

Nara TRAVEL

Nara
Shrines and temples, animals, and food – dive deep into
the wonderful depths of Nara with these three aspects
Words and Photography: Kazuya BabajStyle issue 18 │ 47

TRAVEL NaraNara – the former capital of Japan and central hub forpolitics, economics, and culture predating Kyoto.
This ancient locale’s history as the heart of Japanspans throughout history with it also being home tothe ancient capitals of Asuka, Fujiwara, and Heijo-kyo
between the 600s and 800s. The prefecture of Naraboasts the most national treasures, important culturalproperties, historical structures, and historic cultural
resources in all of Japan.
Tokyo is now the central hub of Japan, however,it only became the country’s hub for politics andeconomics relatively recently in the 17th century.
Prior to Tokyo becoming Japan's modern capital,
Nara and Kyoto formed the heart of Japan andwas home to the Emperor himself. Furthermore,
the largest city in western Japan, Osaka, also has
its own unique culture built through centuries. In
fact, western Japan houses vastly more ancient andMiddle Age historical sites than what can be foundin eastern Japan.
While Nara is home to such historical prestige, it isoften not the first city that comes to mind as a major

48 │ jStyle issue 18

sightseeing spot in Japan. Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, andperhaps Sapporo, owing to the recent skiing boom,
are the cities tourists tend to flock to. For thoselooking for a deep dive into Japan’s history, Narashould be the top destination to visit. One of thereasons why Nara is not more mainstream is possibly
because it is sandwiched between the big names ofOsaka and Kyoto. It also finds itself off the shinkansen(bullet train) line, making it less accessible than the
aforementioned cities. With the city less than an houraway from both Osaka and Kyoto, many tourists are
inclined to drop by for a daytrip, but it is far more
recommended to spend more time soaking up all of
the temples and other ancient Japanese offerings to befound. Keep reading for a collection of must-see spotsthat can be reached by foot from Nara city. Dropby these places between October and November, if
possible, to see all of the sights draped in beautiful
autumnal leaves.
This feature will take a deeper look at the wonders
found in Nara by focusing on three aspects – shrines
and temples, food, and animals.

Japanese
national
treasures framedby beautiful
autumnal leaves“

Kasuga Grand Shrine was built in 768 to protect
Heijo-kyo (the capital at the time) and bringprosperity to the people. According to legend, a kami
(Japanese god) rode on the back of a white deer to the
Kasuga Grand Shrine, which is why the deer are now
regarded as sacred animals and can be found happily
living in the surrounds.
The beautifully red-coloured shrine sits proudly atthe base of Mikasa-yama (Mount Kasuga) and offers
plenty to see, including long-stretching torii gates.
A particular sight to see are the lanterns lining theapproximately 52-metre-long eastern corridor, and81-metre-long western corridor. About 1,000 lanterns
that have been offered by visitors over the span of 800
years can be found here. Each of the lanterns are unique
in shape and design, with brand-new gold ones also
found in the mix. In fact, all of the lanterns start offlooking gold and gradually change colour over time.
This shrine was registered part of the “Historic
Monuments of Nara” in 1998, with the shrine and thesurrounding ancient forest of Mikasa-yama (Mount
Kasuga) also recognised as a world heritage site. The
ancient forest found here is also a location that should
be on the list of all visitors.
For those with a leisurely itinerary planned for
Nara, a walk around the Kasuga Primeval Forest ishighly recommended. Located 498 metres above sea
level and spanning across an area of approximately
250 hectares, the primeval forest carves a beautiful
sight across the eastern mountainous backdrop
of Nara. The rare primeval vegetation on thismountain has been left relatively untouched as it
was a sacred site of Kasuga Grand Shrine and was
actively protected in the 9th century through an orderto prohibit the felling of trees. The official trail isapproximately 10 kilometres long and would takeabout four and a half hours to leisurely conquer.

Drop by these places between October andNovember, if possible, to see all of the sights
draped in beautiful autumnal leaves

Pray to the massive Buddha statue and bask in
the Nigatsu-do sunset at Todai-ji

Emperor Shomu used his power to build this temple
in the 8th century. It was listed as a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site in December 1998 as part of
the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”. The
area spanning from the centre of Nara Park reaching
towards the north is home to a large number ofImportant Cultural Properties.
Standing at a towering 14.98 metres tall is the “Great
Buddha of Nara” (nara no daibutusu) which is housed in
the almost 50-metre-tall Great Buddha Hall. Coming toterms with the idea that these structures were built many
centuries ago is sure to leave many mouths gaping. Dropby to be awestruck by the sheer size of the Great Buddha
whilst also allowing time to admire the smaller statues of
Buddha inside the building.
The Great South Gate found at the entrance ofTodai-ji is also a national treasure that is sure to
impress. On either side of the gate are two 8.4-metretall wooden Nio statues standing guard with their
menacing looks.
A visit to Nigatsu-do around sunset will treat visitorswith a wonderful view of the city sprawling below. The
gradually fading sunlight painting the city of Nara inits warming glow as the night begins to fall will leave alasting impression on visitors who make the trip.
Strolling around the famous Isui-en Garden

The Isui-en Garden is made up of two gardens worth
a stroll around to soak in the surrounding scenery of
Mount Wakakusa, the Great South Gate of Todai-ji,
and Mount Kasuga.
Both gardens feature centrally located ponds andspan across 13,500 metres square with the first garden
built in the Edo period, and the second built during
the Meiji period. The gardens are absolutely stunningduring the autumn when the leaves are at their mostcolourful. Visitors can also stop by museum featuring
bronze wares and pottery, or enjoy a leisurely cup of
tea at the tea house within the grounds.
Nara is absolutely teeming with various otherhistorical sites, but for those visiting the city for the
first time a walk around these hot spots should be
your first port of call.
jStyle issue 18 │ 49

TRAVEL Nara

Places to hit up in Nara – firststop Tomio, the battlegrounds
for ramen-lovers
Many tourists tend to take daytrips to Nara given
its accessibility from Osaka and Kyoto as wellas its relatively compact size compared to theaforementioned cities. These tourists often spend the
day frolicking with the sacred dear in Nara Park, andvisiting the various shrines and temples, rarely ever
spending the night Nara.
While Nara is a great spot to visit to see historicalbuildings and other structures, it is actually also fullof a variety of other wonderful restaurants and sightsthat cannot all be visited in one short day. Keepreading to get the inside info on where to go in theheart of Nara city, as well as the buzz about the ramen
battlegrounds making the rounds across Japan.
Be gobsmacked by the mochi making frenzyat Nakatanidou

There are a vast number of great places to visit fromthe heart of Nara city that are accessible from the JR
Nara station or the Kintetsu Nara station. One of themost popular attractions in the area can be found at
Nakatanidou, located at the entrance of the shopping
district. It is well known as a traditional Japanese
sweets store and for its high-speed mochi (rice cake)pounding demonstration.
Making mochi is an ancient Japanese custom thatis carried out all across Japan to ring in the new year.
It involves pounding cooked sticky rice in a wooden
mortar using a giant hammer. The pounded mass isconstantly turned and folded onto itself until it forms
50 │ jStyle issue 18

a soft, smooth, stretchy ricecake. Nakatanidou is known
for demonstrating this act ofpounding mochi at an extremely
high speed, significantly faster than
the average mochi-making artisans.
Pounding the mass while the sticky rice
is hot ensures that the finished product issoft and very stretchy, which is why the mochi
masters go to lengths to create their mochi atsuch a high speed.
There are few places where freshly made mochi canbe eaten on the spot outside of New Years in Japan,
so this store is great for gourmands looking for adelicious treat, or those itching to see the impressive
demonstration in the heart of Nara (Nakatanidou
URL: nakatanidou.jp).
Take a break from your adventure
at Rokumei Coffee

The city area of Nara is highly convenient for visiting
temples, shrines, and other spots, but sometimes it’s
nice to give the feet a rest by stopping by a nice café.
One such café that deserves a visit is ROKUMEICOFFEE CO. (URL: http://www.rococo-coffee.
co.jp), known for its own-roasted coffee beans.
Founded in 1974, it is a long-standing establishmentwith its own special spin on coffee that it has
maintained throughout the years whilst also offeringa stylish interior to stay up to date with the times.

This coffee shop is much loved by locals as well asinternational tourists, including those from Australia
where the coffee culture is alive and kicking.
According to one of the café staff, the biggest
differences between ROKUMEI’s coffee andthe average drop, are its “fragrance and flavour”.
“Coffee beans are fruits. They should be fragrant
like flowers and have sweetness and acidity likefruits. We aim to bring out these qualities as well as
the true flavours of the coffee beans,” the same staff
member commented.
While dark roasting coffee increases its bitterness,the café goes to efforts to ensure that the beans do
not lose their fruity notes and maintain their uniquecharacter profile during the roasting process so as toserve delicious coffee to customers. The café itself is
spacious with many tourists opting to drop by morethan once a day. This place is a must visit for thoselooking for a truly delicious cup of coffee during astay in Nara.
“Mitsuba” – a superstar restaurant in the
new ramen battlegrounds of Tomio

Just five stations away from Kintetsu Nara station
by local train is Tomio, a town that has garneredmuch attention across Japan of late as a feeding
grounds for ramen. Ramen is currently experiencing
a renaissance around the world in not only large
markets such as the United States and Europe, butalso in humble Sydney, Australia as well. A trip overto the ramen battlegrounds in Nara should be on thelist of those seeking to taste the truly popular ramenbowls found in Japan.

The ramen restaurants found in the surrounds ofNara are currently the focus of many across Japan,
with the town of Tomio at the heart of the popularity
boom. Despite this, visitors hopping off the train at
Tomio station will not be flooded by the sight of ramen
restaurants as far as the eye can see. This is why a certain
amount of research is required to taste all of extremely
delicious, high quality ramen the town has to offer.
There is one particular popular restaurant that
I would personally like to introduce to readers inthis article. Located in Tomio Honmachi, a sixminute walk away from Tomio station, is Ramenya Mitsuba (URL: http://www.ramenya-mitsuba.
com/). It has been featured on the Top 100
Ramen Restaurants of Western Japan publishedby Japanese foodie site, Tabelog, for multiple years
running. In fact, to not know this restaurant is to
not be a genuine ramen lover.
The foamy broth of the Pork CHIKI (pork andchicken) Soy Sauce Ramen is the restaurant’s basedish. This ramen is known for its pork bone andchicken-based broth, which is surprisingly clean
on the palate, and features an innovatively foamy
consistency. Since long queues often form outsideof the restaurant, Mitsuba has its own procedure toensure the lines move efficiently by asking customers
to form two lines. One line is specifically for buying
meal tickets and the other line is for those withtickets waiting to be seated inside. It is advised that
all customers abide by these simple rules to ensure ahassle-free experience on the way to delicious ramen.
While there are many popular ramen restaurants inthe area, Mitsuba is definitely worth dropping by firstto taste their unique and tasty creations.

jStyle issue 18 │ 51

TRAVEL Nara

Spend time withanimals in Nara
– from the iconic
deer, to cats
and owls

52 │ jStyle issue 18

Nara is home to the most sculptures and buildings
designated as national treasures in all of Japan. This ispartially owing to the fact that the city itself is older
than that of even Kyoto. These historic structures arenaturally the focus of many tourists who come to thecity to sightsee, but there is one particular symbol ofNara that must not be forgotten – the deer.
Some 1,300 odd deer make Nara Park, and thesurrounding mountainous areas, their cosy home.
Nara Park can be found in Nara city in the heart ofthe prefecture bearing the same name. It is not merely
the sheer amount of deer living in the area that makes

them interesting, but the fact that they strut aroundthe town with a poised confidence about them. While
this is a sight you might expect to find somewhere
deep in the mountains out in the wild, to see so many
deer out and about in town is surely a phenomenon
that cannot be experienced in very many places
around the world.
So why are there so many deer found wandering
about in Nara? The answer to this question can befound in the long and vast history of Japan. Wild
deer have always inhabited Nara, however, it has been
said that when the Kasuga Grand Shrine was built

approximately 1,300 years ago in the year 768, a kami
(Japanese god) rode on the back of a white deer towelcome and commemorate the birth of the shrine.
The deer of Nara have long been regarded as thehelpers of gods ever since the beginnings of this legend.
Having knowledge of this deep history adds to thereason why the deer are so beloved, especially so when
they approach visitors and bow to them so ever politely.
The adorable sight of deer roaming around theplace is rather common if you take a trip over to Nara
Park and its surrounds. Deer crackers (shika senbei)
can be purchased in the area to feed to the deer if you
wish to get up close and personal with them. The deerin Nara will bow by swaying their heads and downwhen they see these crackers, as if to politely request apiece or two to chew on. Many people often purchasethese crackers to witness the adorable sight of thembowing, however, it is advised that you give the deera cracker once they have bowed as they have been
known to get violent when teased for a bit too long.
Trying your hand at deer herding (shika-yose) ishighly recommended if you plan on visiting Nara.
This Nara tradition dates back 127 years ago to 1892
where deer were herded into one location by thesound of a French horn being blown into. Trumpets
were originally used for this activity before Frenchhorns became the norm. The deer come flocking infrom all directions upon hearing the sound of it. It is
an impressive sight to behold, whilst also being rather
cute as the deer quickly bound on in to gather with
their fellow companions.
This experience can be had within the groundsof Kasuga Grand Shrine between 8am and 11am
(8am to 10am during the summer months of Julyto September) for 20,000 yen per herding and canbe booked a year in advance. Splitting the cost
between a large group makes the experience rather
reasonable and worthwhile. Experiences are also
conducted free of charge on certain days in summer
and winter, so it is worth looking into these dates
by contacting the Nara City Tourism Association
for more information.

Dropping by the cat cafés and owl cafésDeer are usually the first animal that come to mind
when the city of Nara is mentioned, but there are also
a variety of other animal experiences to be had within
the city. Cat cafés, while still uncommon in many
countries overseas, are popular mainstays of Japanand can be experienced on a visit to Nara. “Cat café
Cocone” (http://catcafe-cocone.com) is one such
example that is easy to visit and has garnered great
reviews. It is situated close to the city centre and ishighly recommended.
Approximately 20 cats can be found lazing about
in the stylish Japanese-styled rooms with tatami mat
floors and bamboo interior fixings. You can sit backand watch the cats as you read a few comics (only inJapanese, unfortunately) and sip on a drink, or you
can pet and play with the cats with various toys if you
so please. Prices start from 600 yen for 30 minutes,
making this a fun experience, which is light on the
pocket, worth checking out.
If you are looking to nestle up to animals of thenon-feline variety, then the “Animal Shelter Zoo”
(http://fukurou-naramachi.com) is a must-visit spotthat offers a more unique experience. The Animal
Shelter Zoo is a quick walk within Nara city andis easy to drop by on a whim if you happen to findyourself with some spare time. While it may be known
as a “zoo” it is closer to an owl café in practice. Rareowls can be found all around the establishment andthe more timid residents can also be touched. It is also
home to an impressive hawk that flies around inside.
Don’t forget to mosey over to the rabbits, squirrels,
porcupines, and other small animals for an overloadof cuteness. The entry fee of 1,000 yen comes with adrink and grants you a fun experience with all of thedifferent animals without any time constraints.
Nara, although known for its deer, also offers otherfun animal experiences for you to spend your day inthe city. The ability to enjoy a day filled with deer,cats, owls, hawks, and other animals is just one of themany reasons to visit Nara.
jStyle issue 18 │ 53

TRAVEL Kanazawa

Kanazawa
From a Japanese garden
built by a famous
general, to modern art

T

he opening of the Hokuriku
shinkansen line in March
2015 has turned a trip to
Kanazawa from the popular
ski area of Nagano to a quick
one-hour ride. Kanazawa is acity popular for its historical atmosphere filledwith culture from the halcyon days.
Kanazawa began to prosper approximately
400 years ago when Toshiie Maeda, a famous
general with an enormous fortune, constructeda castle. The town sprawling from the groundsof the castle was of a scale to rival the big cities
of Edo (now Tokyo), Osaka, and Kyoto at
the time. There are three different faces tothis historical settlement: a samurai town
constructed around the castle, a merchant town
full of life, and a temple town built to protect
the area around the castle. It is a beautiful place
known for its plentiful culture from the goodold-fashioned days.
54 │ jStyle issue 18

Visitors to Kanazawa should definitely stopby the three historical townscapes known
as the “Chaya Districts”. The tea-housebuildings lining these streets with their delicate
latticework are both stylish and gorgeous.
Don’t forget to also drop by at night to see thebeautiful sight of them lit up.
Over in the Nomura Clan Samurai Home
you can get a glimpse of how the middle-classsamurai of the Kaga domain once lived inthese stretches of stone pavements andmud walls.
An absolute must-go spot is the Kenrokuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.
Kenroku-en has taken shape over many longyears as a prominent garden of the Edo period.
Visitors from all around the world flock tothis garden at the heart of Kanazawa to see themagnificent views on offer all seasons of the year.
The increase of tourists to the city has led
to the offering of a variety of programs toexperience old Japanese culture, from kimono-

dressing, and chopstick-making using gold foil,
to the viewing of Noh, a traditional form ofJapanese entertainment.
A trip to Kanazawa wouldn’t be complete
without filling up your belly with the vast seafood
options in the area. If I had to pick one food torecommended, it would be the nodoguro fish
(doederleinia berycoides). The deliciously
fatty white flesh of this fish is hard
to match, so make sure you have ataste while you’re there!

Deluxe Double Room

Beauty and elegance of Kanazawa - Walking
around the hotel, you will see traditional designs
and concepts that bring Kanazawa to life.

Ladies' Bathhouse

Lobby
8558DAIW

jStyle issue 18 │ 55

TRAVEL Fukushima

Delving
Into the Allure of

Fukushima andAizu
A tapestry of history, culture,and nature-filled mountains
Words and Photography: Ryoji Yamauchi

56 │ jStyle issue 18

FUKUSHIMAKITAKATAAIZUWAKAMATSU

GOSHIKI-NUMA
LAKE INAWASHIROKORIYAMA

T

he Tohoku region – hostto a number of 2019 Rugby
World Cup matches,part of the 2020 Tokyo
Olympic torch relay, andshowing renewed signs oflife following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake
and tsunami. It goes without saying that thishuge region, comprised of six prefectures andmaking up approximately 30% of the total
area of Honshu (the main island of Japan), is
known domestically as one of the top skiing
destinations, but it is also diverse in the many
charms to be found when the snow has melted
to reveal the lush greenery.
I visited Fukushima, the southern-most
prefecture of Tohoku at the end of September
2019 after receiving an invitation from a local
government, leading to the writing of thisarticle. Some readers are probably concerned

about the effects of the nuclear incident
following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake andtsunami, upon the mere mention of the place,"Fukushima". However, the prefecture is
working hard to deliver accurate information
based on comparisons of radiation levels
with other major cities, as well as efforts
towards changing their tourism campaign to“Hope Tourism”, which is aimed at not only
recovering from the reputational damage of
misinformation, but also to educate about
natural disasters and disaster prevention.
My trip covered hope tourism locations,as well as the mountainous region of Aizu
in the prefecture’s west. The history andculture of the Aizu region forms a large pillarof Fukushima tourism alongside the hope
tourism efforts. I will detail the beautiful
aspects of Aizu I came across in much thesame fashion as my trip to introduce you towhat the area has to offer.
Getting to the Aizu region is simple – justgrab a shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo
station to Koriyama station and you’re there.
Use the one hour and 45-minute trip to
unwind from your long flight over to Japan
before charting a course to Aizu.

jStyle issue 18 │ 57

TRAVEL Fukushima
Get up close and personal with Aizu history
and the warrior’s spirit in Aizuwakamatsu

My trip started in the heart of the Aizu region– the city of Aizuwakamatsu. This city wasonce one of the battlegrounds of the Boshin
War, a civil war that broke out in Japan from
1868 to 1869 between the revolutionary army,
formed through an alliance centered aroundthe domains of Satsuma, Choshu, and Tosa,
and the former Edo bakufu army led by thelikes of the Tokugawa shogunate and the Aizu
domain. During this war, the Battle of Aizu was
said to be where the most resistance was met.
It is these brave and proud warrior stories thathave earned Aizuwakamatsu the moniker of“the Samurai Town”.
Upon reaching Aizuwakamatsu, I decided
to visit the iconic Tsuruga Castle, however,before making my way over I dropped by the
Tsurugajo Kaikan, a tourism facility next tothe castle, for a kimono-wearing experience.
Time flew by in almost the blink of an eye
as I became engrossed in finding the perfectkimono combination amongst the facility’s 20
kimono and 30 obi (kimono belts) for men,and 80 kimono and 80 obi for women. It takes
approximately 10 minutes for men and 15
minutes for women to complete the kimono

58 │ jStyle issue 18

dressing process. With the obi tightened
around my waist, I felt the upper half of mybody become secured, but I was also overcome
by a strange sense of calm and invigoration.
Give kimono dressing a shot for a uniqueexperience when you drop by Tsuruga Castle.
Fitted and proper in my kimono, I headed
inside the castle. I immediately noticed thecastle tower with its white walls and red roofing
tiles upon stepping inside. Entry is permitted
into this tower, and climbing to the top of
this 36-metre-high structure will give you asweeping view of Aizuwakamatsu that just has
to be seen for full effect. Panels and educational
videos about the Boshin War are also foundwithin the tower, and the English explanations
and subtitles allow visitors from overseas tolearn about this fascinating history on theirvisits.
After a fulfilling trip to Tsuruga Castle, I
set off for another location to learn about thehistory of Aizu – Nisshinkan, an Edo period
school in the Aizu domain. Built in 1803, theaim of this school was to promote educationin the Aizu domain and foster people of talent.
The Nisshinkan was said to be the largest andpossess the highest standard of education of
the 300 domain schools during the Edo period.
What makes this school so intriguing wereits various unique features, from the teachingsystem with no class grades amongst the 1,300
students in attendance and the option for
talented students to skip ahead, to the avantgarde subjects such as astronomy.
While you’re at Nisshinkan to learn about
Japan’s latest education institution of theEdo period, make sure you try out the Zen
meditation, tea ceremony, archery, and otherexperience programs catered to tourists. Having
a shot at archery is particularly interestingsince the bows and arrows are made of bamboo
as they were during the period, and you can
picture exactly how the children back in the
day used to train.

Traditional culture,and delicious food –skip and stroll aroundthe town of Kitakata

I travelled further north from
Aizuwakamatsu to visit Kitakata. The trip
from Aizuwakamatsu to Kitakata only takes
a short 30 minutes, so it would be a breeze totake a day trip to this city if you happen to becentering your travels around Aizuwakamatsu.
Kitakata is blessed with an abundance ofwater from sources such as the undergroundflow from the nearby Mount Iide to thenorth. These sources of water helped thetown flourish throughout the ages throughthe production of soy sauce, miso, sake, andother fermented products. The fermentationindustry has led to the construction of many
brewing storehouses and it is these buildingsthat have made the city famous across Japanas the “town of storehouses” due to the photo
exhibitions held showcasing shots of theseviews. Traditional crafts such as kirizaiku(woodwork using paulownia wood), Kitakatalacquerware, and Oguniyama bamboo
craftwork are also popular in the area. I highly
recommend a walk around the town to see allof the different traditional aspects of Japan
from yesteryear on display around the place.
If you’re coming in from Kitakata station

then you won’t need to waste any time to see
the sights.
The first sight that can be seen on yourwalking tour is the Kitakata Urushi Ginza
Street, approximately five minutes from thestation. Kitakata used to be home to manylacquer workers, and was a prominent lacquer
district within the Aizu region. The “Tenman
Area” is the beating heart of this street stillfilled with many workshops and doll museums
to this day. Here you can try your hand at somemakie (a traditional method of applying designs
to lacquerware using powdered gold or silver),or make some kirinoko dolls (Aizu-region dolls
made by hand-twisting packed paulownia
wood chips) to make some memorable gifts ofyour travels.
A trip to a place renowned for fermented
goods wouldn’t be complete without a visit

to a sake brewery. In the 2018 National Sake
Fair, 22 brands from Fukushima received
gold awards (the highest number of awards
nationwide for seven years running), whichjust goes to show how successful the industry
is in the prefecture. Kitakata has been shown
to produce high quality sake with two goldwinning brands, and three brands qualifying forawards. There is an endless variety of uniquesake brewed in Kitakata alone, so it would be
wise to visit a brewery for yourself to try themall out and find your perfect drop.
Foodies absolutely must try some Kitakata
ramen on any trip to the locale. Kitakata ramen
stands alongside Sapporo (Hokkaido), andHakata (Fukuoka) as one of the three majorramen in Japan. A quick stroll around the town
will give you a taste of just how passionate thearea is about ramen. The slick texture of themoderately thick, curly noodles is characteristicof Kitakata ramen, but it is the soup thatdefines each restaurant. If you want
to traverse the rabbit hole of thisramen then you’ll just have totry out all of the different
restaurants in the area.
You can also give handroasting rice crackers a try
at a storehouse as well as avariety of other experiences –so make sure you leave plentyof time to make the most outof your trip to Kitakata.
jStyle issue 18 │ 59

TRAVEL Fukushima
The multi-faceted, gorgeous ponds ofGoshiki-numa

My tour also included a trek to Goshiki-numa,
one of the most famous tourist destinations
outside of the Aizu region within Fukushima
prefecture. In 2016, Goshiki-numa wasawarded a star in the Michelin Green Guide.
This tourist destination is internationallyrenowned and the allure of this place is foundsquarely in the mysterious beauty of Mother
Nature here.
Goshiki-numa literally translates to “pondsof five colours”, which might be a little
confusing. In 1888, a volcanic eruption on
the northern peak of Mount Bandai caused
a collapse of the volcanic edifice, with theavalanche of rocks and snow damming up therivers, creating hundreds of ponds and lakes
in the area. Goshiki-numa refers to 30 or soof these ponds. The ponds deviate between
emerald green, cobalt blue, turquoise blue,
emerald blue, and pastel blue, thus the fitting
name “ponds of five colours”.
Goshiki-numa features an approximately
four-kilometre-long trekking course known
as the “Goshiki-numa Natural Sightseeing
Path”. This course is part of a special protection
area within the national park, which means
any collection of plants or animals is strictly
prohibited, and visitors must stay within theconfines of the course. Please make sure you
abide by these rules if you happen to drop by
for this trek.

60 │ jStyle issue 18

Despite a few undulating spots, I foundthe course to be fairly easy to walk. Sunlightstreamed through the foliage and the breeze
rushing through the trees felt great on the
sunny, fresh autumn day I happened to take thetrek. The sound of the rivers flowing into theponds soothed my soul and enveloped me witha sense of calm.
I’m convinced that the mysterious powers
behind the natural wonders found at Goshikinuma are what took my mind off any fatigue I
must’ve felt. While the ponds come in different
shades of blue and green, as mentioned earlier,what makes them really interesting is thatthe colours appear to change depending on
where or what angle you view the same pond.
This phenomenon is caused by the differencein angle of the light reflecting off the matterin the water. The ponds are said to display
different colours depending on the weather orseason, so it might be a good idea to drop bywhen the cherry blossoms are in bloom or theautumn leaves are on show to see the different
variations of these ponds.

There was one other place I visited on mytrek during this trip. A quick thirty-minute
walk from the Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu
Hotel (popular amongst many ski visitors
during winter) are the Fudo Falls. It goes
without saying that these falls offer impressive
views. Despite a few hilly areas on the way to
Fudo Falls, I highly recommend the walk over
if you happen to be staying at the nearby hotel
during the green season for a quick and fun trek
into nature.
To cap off my trip, I visited Fukushima
Ouse Winery, a winery newly-built in October
2015 located between Lake Inawashiro andKoriyama station. The inspiration behind thiswinery comes from the motivation to create
a new industry in Fukushima following theaftermath of the disaster. Fukushima Ouse
Winery is not only garnering attention for
its wines, but also for the cider brewed on
the premises using local apples. In fact, thecider was awarded a bronze medal in the 2018
International Cider Challenge, an impressivefeat for a newcomer to the industry. If yourinterests lie outside of sake, then drop by thiswinery for a taste of what Fukushima can
produce.
Make some space in your itinerary for yournext trip to Japan to visit and experience thefascinating history, culture, and beautiful
nature on offer in Aizu.

Fukushima TRAVEL

Fukushima
Riding the wave of recovery

Even before the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdownsof March 2011, Fukushima Prefecture in northeastern Japanwasn’t the first place you’d choose to go on a surf trip.
While the coast has plentiful surf, its distance from theseething metropolis of Tokyo kept Fukushima off the radarfor most weekend surfers, leaving uncrowded spoils for
those lucky few in the know.
Words: K. Rhodes with support from THE SURF NEWS Japan

FUKUSHIMA
With an area of 13,800m2, Fukushima
is the third-largest prefecture in Japan,
stretching from the snowy mountains
in the west to the Pacific coast in theeast. Fertile plains feed an agriculturalindustry lead by peaches, pears andrice. The Pacific coast is rich in sea
life, spawning thriving fishing andseafood industries. The area also has
a rich history and culture that thrives
alongside abundant natural resources
and beautiful scenery.

Photo © Minamisoma City

jStyle issue 18 │ 61

I

TRAVEL Fukushiman the eight plus years since the triple catastrophe(*See Data box 1), the slow and tedious cleanup,
recovery, and rebuilding process has long since
stopped making news headlines. However, asJapan steps up preparations for the 2020 Tokyo
Olympics and Paralympics, some of which will
be held in the disaster-affected Tohoku area, Fukushima
has once again been thrust into the spotlight. WhenI caught wind that the Japan Pro Surfing Association
was holding their first ever national professional surfing
competition in Fukushima, I decided to pack my bags andfind out first-hand what was really going on in this oftenmisunderstood region.
Fukushima is just over an hour north of Tokyo by
Shinkansen (bullet train). I was met at the station by
Fukushima resident Ishiuchi Kei, a keen snowboarderand surfer who was to be my guide for the trip. It was agloomy Sunday morning as we left the station behindand began the hour-long drive to the beach. With
the city behind, evidence of the nuclear disaster soon
became apparent. Monitoring posts located every few
kilometrs along the main road displayed real-timeradiation readings. Driving through Iitate, an area heavily
irradiated despite being mostly outside the nominal
30km exclusion zone, the readings showed 0.124 μSv/h(*See Data Box 2), several times higher than pre-disasterlevels, though still low on a global scale.

62 │ jStyle issue 18

Another reminder of the disaster came in the form of huge
piles of radioactive soil packed into bags and covered withlarge waterproof sheets, the result of ongoing government
funded ‘decontamination’ work which aims to reduce annual
exposure to under 20 mSv, the government limit for allowing
evacuees to return to their homes. Fukushima was once
known as the bread-basket of Japan, and the area of Iitate was
especially famous for its cattle farming. Now there was little
to be seen on the farmland but piles of contaminated soil. I
asked Kei if many of the estimated 160,000 evacuees from thenuclear disaster had chosen to return.
“Some elderly people have returned, but the population
has shrunk dramatically. Schools have closed and a lotof shops remain shut. Many evacuees have settled down
elsewhere during the years since the disaster.”Eight years after
the earthquake,tsunamiand nuclear
meltdowns, many
shops and schools
throughout
Fukushima remain
shut(© THE SURF
NEWS)
Piles of radioactively
contaminated soil serve as astark reminder of the nuclear
disaster (©THE SURF NEWS)“How about the people who returned? Are they
worried about the radiation?” I asked.
“They try not to think about it. Once they’ve made thechoice to come back, it’s better to just get on with theirlives. This is the new reality for Fukushima. Worrying
only makes it worse.”
We arrived at the surfing contest site of Kitaizumi justin time for emerging surf star Inoue Taka’s heat. 18-yearold Taka was on a competitive tear, notching two wins
and a second from three contests on the Japanese pro tour
so far this year. Another win here would see him claim
the national title before the season finale in September.
The waves were chest-high with a light onshore
sea breeze and intermittent rain. Conditions were by
no means ideal, but Taka took to the waves with a
vengeance, mixing high performance maneuvers withclassic longboard style including a long and stylish hang10 for a heat score that more than doubled that of his
nearest opponent. After his heat, I approached him to ask
his impressions of Fukushima.

Rising surf star Inoue
Taka on his way tosecuring the 2019
national longboarding
title(© Japan Pro Surfing
Association)

DATA
BOX
1
NUCLEAR RADIATIONRadioactive material isfound throughout nature
in soil, rocks, water, air,and vegetation, alongsidecosmic radiation fromspace. The worldwide
average natural dose tohumans is around 2.4 mSv(milli-Sieverts, see below)
per year. Alongside this‘background radiation,’
exposure to artificial
ionising radiation, suchas from nuclear sites andmedical use averages 0.6
mSv/year worldwide andbetween 2.3 - 3.1 mSv/
year in technologicallyadvanced countries such as
Japan and the USA.

UNITS OF RADIATION
Sievert (Sv): A derived unitof ionising radiation doseused to measure of thehealth effect on the humanbody. 1 Sv = 1 joule/kg and carries with it a
5.5% chance of eventuallydeveloping cancer.
Milli-Sievert (mSv): 1/1000
of a Sievert
Micro-Sievert (μSv):
1/1000 of a milli-Sievert, or
1-millionth of a Sievert
Becquerel (Bq): A unit ofradioactive decay. 1 Bq isdefined as one decay ordisintegration per second.

“This is my first time here, but the waves have been
great. It was so good on Friday, I surfed for 10 hours –both longboarding and shortboarding.”
Taka is one of a rare breed of surfer who competes
professionally in three disciplines; shortboard, longboard
and SUP (Standup Paddle Board).
“Do you have any concerns about the radiation?”“No. If they decided to have a contest here, I’m sure it’s fine.
If anything, I hope I can help bring some joy to Fukushima.”
His sentiments seem to be shared with many of theother surfers in the competition. Rather than being
worried about surfing in Fukushima, they are happy tosupport the recovery effort in any way they can.
JPSA management were also happy to hold their first
professional competition in Fukushima.
“The beaches are closely monitored, and if they aresafe enough for swimming, then I believe they are safe forsurfing too. The local council has been very cooperative
and we’re excited to have a professional longboarding
competition in such great waves,” an official commented.
I went in search of Taka’s mother, who accompanies
him on most of their surf trips around the country
chasing contests. I wondered if she had any moreconcerns, as mothers always seem to do.
“The radiation is definitely on my mind, but I can see
all the work they’ve done to rebuild after the disaster.
The local council and prefectural government check thewater regularly, and if JPSA management decides to havean event here, that’s good enough for me. I was a little
worried about my daughter at first, as young women are
more susceptible to the effects of radiation, but the waves
have just been so good the last few days, I couldn’t keep
her out of the water!” she laughed.
2019 professional
longboarding
champion Inoue
Taka with his sister
Kaede, who has
also represented
Japan in stand-up
paddleboarding. Their
first trip to Fukushima
was blessed withgood surf and goodmemories(© THE SURF NEWS)“I think it’s sad that so many people stay away from
Fukushima just because of bad rumours,” his mothercontinued.
“I’m glad we came. I hope that Taka can do well andcontribute to the recovery efforts in some way. You
don’t hear much positive news from Fukushima thesedays, so I hope that changes in the future. The waves
are great, and all the facilities have been rebuilt so nicely
after the tsunami.”
jStyle issue 18 │ 63

TRAVEL Fukushima

Yes, the tsunami.
While the nuclear disaster has received the lion’sshare of coverage in the world media, it was the tsunamithat left the deepest scars up and down the coast, killing
16,000 people and leaving 2,500 still missing. Hereat the competition venue of Kitaizumi, the tsunami
washed away the hugely popular campground alongwith the pine forest planted to protect it. Cars anddebris were strewn upside-down in the fields. The
neighbouring coal-fired power plant was severely
damaged, and sand washed everywhere, leaving virtuallynone left on the beach.
“It was complete chaos,” said Kei, who drove down tothe beach through the debris just weeks after the tsunami.
“But you know what? Three months after thetsunami, the beach itself had returned to normal.
Mother Nature has an immense power to cleanse andheal herself.”
Searching for more first-hand accounts, I ventured
down to the lifeguard tower and sought out the person“

If you’re talking about
radiation, it pretty muchalways has been [safe].
64 │ jStyle issue 18

Nagasawa Fumiaki (left)
returned to Fukushima toensure the safety of his
beloved Kitaizumi beach (©
THE SURF NEWS)

DATA
BOX
2
TRIPLE CATASTROPHESOF 2011
At 2:46pm on 11 March2011 a M9.0 Earthquake
struck around 70km
off the Tohoku coast ofnortheastern Japan. The
earthquake triggered atsunami that is estimatedto have reached 40m inheight and travelled up to
10km inland, killing nearly
16,000 people and leaving
2,500 still unaccounted for.
The tsunami brought about
a level 7 nuclear disaster at
Fukushima-Daiichi Nuclear
Power Plant, the most
severe nuclear accident
since Chernobyl in 1986.

in charge. Nagasawa Fumiaki, burly and tanned, grew
up on these beaches and has watched over them as alifeguard for nearly 20 years.
“My father used to work at the nuclear power plant,
cleaning inside the reactors. He’d work for 5 minutes
before his maximum dose limit was reached and spend
the rest of the day playing shogi (Japanese chess). He
ended up dying from cancer. These days, one in two
people get some form of cancer, so it’s hard to say for sure,but ever since he died, I have been suspicious of radiation.
He took the job to put me through school but ended up
paying for it with his life.”
It was a heavy story to process on a Sunday morning at
the beach. He continued, regardless.
“So, when the nuclear accident happened, I
immediately took my wife and young child and fled.
When I saw the explosion at reactor three, I thought it
was over for Japan. I grabbed our passports and started
looking for options to escape overseas. In the end,
someone in Okinawa (southern Japan, almost 2,000km
from Fukushima) agreed to take us in so we bought oneway tickets on the first boat.”
Life in tropical Okinawa, with no distinct seasons,didn’t suit them though and they ended up moving toMiyazaki, around half-way back to Fukushima.
“My child is going to school there now and we’re pretty
settled, but when I heard they were going to re-open thebeach here for swimming, I had to come back and help.”“Is the water safe now?” I asked.
“If you’re talking about radiation, it pretty muchalways has been [safe]. There was a spike right after the
explosions, but it’s amazing how quickly the readings
went down. In seawater, much of the radioactive Cesium
sinks and mixes with sediment, washing out to deeper
water. The only reason it has taken this long to re-open
the beaches is because people had to re-build their lives
before they could even think about leisure. Most people
refrained from surfing here for three years after thedisaster, but that was out of respect for those who weretaken by the tsunami, not because of radiation.”
His claims can be backed up with a search online forradiation monitoring post-disaster. Seawater samples, evenclose to the stricken nuclear power plant, went down to predisaster levels relatively quickly, while radiation in sedimenthas remained high. A 2016 Greenpeace Report showed
contamination in seabed samples near the nuclear plant up
to 120 Bq/kg compared to pre-2011 levels of 0.3 Bq/kg.

“The sheer size of the Pacific Ocean combined withpowerful complex currents has led to the widespreaddispersal of contamination.” notes Kendra Ulrich, Senior
Global Energy Campaigner at Greenpeace Japan.
I placed my hand-held Geiger-counter on the sandto check for myself. It read 0.036 μSv/h, no discernable
increase on natural background radiation.
A handheld Geiger
counter reading
confirms no increase
in regular backgroundradiation(© THE SURF NEWS)

Meanwhile, back at the competition venue the surf action
was heating up, with Inoue Taka facing off against Horii
Satoshi, the only man left in the field who could thwart Taka
from sealing his national title today. Excitement was at feverpitch as Satoshi held the lead mid-way through the final heat,
however Taka scraped into a nice wave in the dying minutes
and rode it to the sand, clinching the win by one-tenth of apoint and his maiden national title.
With the competition dusted and champion crowned,
we decided to scope some of the other surf breaks nearby.
Kitaizumi is one of the most consistent spots for surfon the east coast of Japan, the artificial breakwater built
to protect the neighbouring power plant catching any
swell and reflecting it into the beach. A quick check
both north and south revealed numerous other beacheswith decent waves and only a handful of surfers out.
Granted, they weren’t the kind of waves you’d expect tofind in Hawaii or Indonesia, but if these same waves werebreaking in Chiba or Shonan, popular surf areas closer
to the metropolis of Tokyo, there would be 40-50 people
jostling for position on each peak. Here, you had tosearch for someone to surf with.
We tore ourselves from the sight of empty waves andpulled onto Route 6, back towards Tokyo. The road took
us within a couple of kilometres from the centre of thenuclear catastrophe, Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power
Plant. As we passed the turnoff to the nuclear power
plant, currently restricted to authorised personnel, theroadside Geiger counter showed 1.96 μSv/h. While this is“

The reality
is that ourdaily lives
are fullof risks,
whether
you areaware ofthem or not.

The Fukushima coastline
boasts great surf, often with
only the birds to admire(©Kiyomi Igari)still within the new Japanese limit of 20 mSv/year, I was
happy to drive past with the windows up.
The thing with radiation exposure is that there is nowell-defined ‘safe’ limit. As witnessed after the nuclear
bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, some survivors
lived into their 80s and 90s, while people with little
exposure to artificial radiation die of cancer every day.
For many people around the world, just the mention ofradiation is enough to induce a shudder, however here in
Fukushima, nuclear radiation has become another fact of life.
While not totally accurate, a comparison to air quality
might help put things in perspective. Anyone who lives ina big city is subjecting themselves to the negative effects of air
pollution, whether they are aware of it or not. And while air
quality may be one reason you choose not to live in Beijing
or Delhi, it won’t stop most people from an occasional trip
to Sydney for shopping or a nice café lunch. By this logic,a trip to most parts of Fukushima will have no discernablenegative effects on your health, while you might be wise to
avoid known hot-spots with higher levels of radiation.
The reality is that our daily lives are full of risks,
whether you are aware of them or not. These days
a myriad of dangerous chemicals including known
carcinogens can be found emanating from the walls,
carpets, and detergents in many homes. Government
checks may pick up any radiation in fish and agricultural
products, but residual pesticides and post-harvest
chemicals pass through undetected. Radiation is now awell-known risk, however that alone does not make it
any more dangerous than the other risks we take in life.
Despite this, Fukushima and the surrounding areas have

jStyle issue 18 │ 65

TRAVEL Fukushimareceived so much bad press that it has blown the risks,
at least for short term visits, way out of proportion. My
guide Kei attests to this with his story of visiting Australia
for business soon after the nuclear meltdowns. Upon
discovering he lives in Fukushima, people immediately
shrank back and didn’t want anything to do with him,
as if he was emitting radiation himself. That’s the kindof reaction that comes from lack of knowledge and badrumours as opposed to informed decision-making. The
effects of the nuclear disaster are far from over, withthousands of people as yet unable to return to theirhomes. The government has faced widespread criticism
over its response to the disaster and has a long way to
go to regain the trust of the local population. However,a lot of money and effort has gone into rebuilding thedevastated areas, and those who have chosen to return
deserve what help they can get, not to be shunned. For
many people here, it is still going to take wave after waveof goodwill for life to return to normal.

Plentiful surf with no crowds.
Welcome to Fukushima.
(©Kiyomi Igari)

Coastal areas
destroyed by thetsunami have beenrebuilt with the hopeof attracting morebeachgoers(©THE SURF NEWS)My head was buzzing with all these thoughts as we
sped down the highway towards Tokyo. Looking out
the window, we passed beach after empty beach withtempting surf. It was too much to resist. Unsure of what
to expect, I had left my surfboard at home, so we stopped
by a local surf shop to rent a board and wetsuit. I couldn’t
wait to jump in the water and clear my head. The shop
we pulled up to happened to be run by Watanabe Hiroki,head of the Fukushima Surfing Association.
Hiroki was in his shop when the 2011 earthquake
struck. He escaped to a nearby evacuation centre andwatched from the hilltop as his shop was flooded by thetsunami. While the national surfing community rallied
together to send water, clothes and other support, it took
several months of hard work to reopen his shop, and mostpeople wouldn’t dare go near the sea for years afterwards.
In the years following the tsunami Hiroki faced an uphillbattle to promote surfing in the area. Thankfully, things
66 │ jStyle issue 18

Watanabe Hiroki, headof the Fukushima Surfing
Association, in front of his
shop that was flooded by the2011 tsunami(© THE SURF NEWS)are beginning to return to normal with big nationalsurfing competitions the last two years attracting
hundreds of amateur surfers from all over Japan.
“Some people still don’t feel safe coming to Fukushima,
and that’s Ok,” says Hiroki.
“All we can do is welcome those that choose to come.
By holding these competitions, I hope to bring morepositive coverage of Fukushima. Slowly people will realisethat it is safe and start coming back. These large events
are an important contribution to the local economy.
The sea is safe, and the local government has rebuilt theforeshore with spacious parking and clean toilets. All
that’s left is for the people to come back.”
With the interview finished I grabbed a board andran to the water’s edge, paddling straight out to an
empty peak. Over the next two hours I caught wave afterwave, never once crossing paths with another surfer.
Uncrowded surf is a rare commodity in Japan, or almost
anywhere in the world for that matter. You’d have tosearch pretty hard in any country with surfers to findeasily accessible waves of this quality with no crowds.
While the triple catastrophe of 2011 has scared many
people from Fukushima, as things return to normal,
maybe surfing can help bring people back. As the waveof government support subsides, the Pacific Ocean
continues to provide unlimited waves of her own.
Uncrowded surf is plentiful in Fukushima, but once
people realise the high potential and minimal risks, it may
not stay that way for long!

L

JAPOW Niigata

otte Arai is a new resort that
opened its doors in 2017 in the
Myoko Area, one of the mostsnow-abundant areas in theworld. Its biggest drawcard isnone other than the fact that
it is home to the largest non-compacted snow
slope in all of Japan.
Rather than spending hours explaining allof the features of the slope, it would be much
simpler, and more impressive, to have a lookat a map of it. All of the purple areas on the
included map are open for skiing. Generally
speaking, recognised off-course areas canbe skied on and since these areas are noncompacted, there is the potential to ski on

freshly-fallen powder snow all around the place.
Please take note that a certain level of skill
is required to tackle these slopes as there is achance of getting lost in these huge areas.
Looking for a break from shredding theslopes? How about a ride on the longest zip-line
in Japan? This gigantic zip-line was constructedto coincide with the opening of the resort,boasting an approximately 240-metre total
elevation distance and spanning 1,501 metresin length from the mountain-top gondola.
Another great reason to visit Arai is for astay in the luxurious resort hotel. The hotel iscomprised of 257 rooms in total that are divided
into three classes: Superior, Deluxe, and Suite.
Marketed as an upper-class establishment, even

Lotte
Arai Resort

Marvel at the largest noncompacted snow slope in Japan68 │ jStyle issue 18

the Superior rooms are furnished with their
specially-branded bedding designed for optimal
sleeping comfort, as well as a range of other perks
that place the hotel on a level above the rest.
There is no end to the joys to be had
within the resort grounds with a large public
onsen bath, as well as a number of sumptuous
restaurants. Mosey over to the library café filled
to the brim with books, and get your fitness fix
with a range of facilities including bouldering
walls, a pool, gym, and spa. Experience theultimate resort stay at Lotte Arai Resort.
Direct access from Tokyo and otherlocations is a breeze thanks to the free shuttle
bus service offered from the recently built
Joetsumyoko station on the shinkansen line.

jStyle issue 18 │ 69

JAPOW Nagano

70 │ jStyle issue 18

O
Shibu
Onsen
The closest longestablished hot springarea to the snowmonkeys

Traditional andhistoricalJapanese hotel.

ne of the most sought-after experiences byinternational visitors to Japanese ski areas is,without question, the sight of snow monkeys
bathing in the onsen. While some skiers andsnowboarders book tours to see these snowmonkeys during their stays in popular ski areas
like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen, it can actually
be a trying day-long experience to see themthis way since it takes quite a bit of time to getthere from these places, despite them all being
located in Nagano prefecture.
If you’re planning a ski trip to Nagano
prefecture and would also like to see the snowmonkeys and have a dip in the hot springs
without the hassle of extended travel times,
then I highly recommend a stay in Shibu Onsenat the base of one of the mountains in Shiga
Kogen (the largest ski area in Japan). Get up
close and personal with the snow monkeys or
go for a quick ski during your stay in this onsen
town located near Jigokudani Hot Springwhere the bathing monkeys can be found. The
area’s location at the base of the mountainSpa water
drawn
straight fromthe source.

Other spasalso within
short
distances.

O N Y A D O

makes it far more convenient than trying totravel to other ski areas outside of Shiga Kogen
to get your snow-slope fix.
Shibu Onsen is so rich in hot spring sourcesthat simply digging up the ground in thearea will expose a source of thermal waters. It
boasts hot springs of quantity and quality notcommonly found in the hot spring kingdomof Nagano prefecture. Each hot spring source
produces waters with different qualities, fromthe brown-coloured waters filled with iron,to cloudy, green, and even crystal clear waters
amongst many others. With the different
colours comes a range of benefits including relief
from nerve pain and healthier-looking skin.
There is no shortage of inns with private hotspring sources and individual baths in this town
filled with thermal waters. Take a stroll in thislong-standing hot spring town and try out thenine different outdoor public baths for a typicalonsen-town experience. If you’re set on seeing
the snow monkeys on your next trip, perhaps
pencil Shibu Onsen in to your itinerary.

Very close
to Snow
Monkey park!

S U M I N O Y U

www.suminoyu.com
info@suminoyu.com
Shibu Onsen,Yamanouchimachi,Shimotakai-gun,
Nagano-ken,Japan 381-0401
TEL.+81 269-33-3128

SHIBU
ONSEN
NAGANO
7972SUMI

jStyle issue 18 │ 71

CULTURE Art × Sento

アート

ART MEETS SENTO

Sento refers to “public baths”, facilities much adored around Japan since the 17th
century. These public baths are not merely places to go to wash your body, butrather places where locals and travellers gather socially to soak away their exhaustion.
Many people have undoubtedly seen the familiar sight of Mount Fuji painted near
one of these baths. A sento craze has been slowly taking hold of people young andold recently, with a number of unique baths popping up that have incorporated art,
whilst preserving the traditional overall style. Furthermore, there’s nothing quite likedowning an ice-cold bottle of milk after warming your body in the bath! Whether
you’re drenched in sweat from the sticky summer air, or chilled to the bone on a
winter’s day, make some time during your travels to visit a public bath in Tokyo.

72 │ jStyle issue 18

銭湯

HOW TO CORRECTLYNAVIGATE A SENTO
1. Take your shoes off at the entrance
and place them in thex shoecupboard.
2. Pay the entrance fee at the bandai(reception).
3. Soap, towels, and other bathingamenities can also be purchased at
the bandai.
4. Baths are divided into separate
male and female bathing areas.
Generally, the red curtain leads
to the female area and the blue
curtain leads to the male area.
5. Take off all of your clothes,
including your underwear, before
entering the bath.
6. You must wash your body before
entering the bath. Sit on theprovided stools to scrub your body.
7. Pour hot water on your body
before entering the bath. This is
known as “kake-yu”.
8. Sit back and relax in the heatedwaters.

FUJIMI-YU

富士見湯FUJIMI-YU
Address: 1260, Nakagami-cho,Akishima-shi, Tokyo (an eight-minute
walk from either Higashi-Nakagami
station or Nakagami station on the
Ome Line)
Web: www.fujimiyu.co
Trading hours: 12 PM – 10 AM, closed
on Mondays

Seven thousand different manga (Japanese comics) are available
for you to read to your heart’s content at this sento featuring thelongest trading hours in the city at 22 hours every day! Make
sure you check out the walls in the baths covered in bright andcolourful paintings of Japanese lucky charms.
Lofts and individual rooms can be found in the lounge
for you to flop down and relax after a good soak in the baths.
You can also take advantage of the sauna to relax in at no
additional charge. This sento has become the talk of thetown with the fun experience offered with different toys
such as sushi and octopuses floating about. All the soaking
got your tummy rumbling? Snack on some ice cream, beer,
instant noodles, takoyaki (octopus balls), and other tasty
treats. Feel free to also park your bicycle inside the facility ifneeded.
The bath waters are tapped from 100% high-quality well
waters.This public bath lets you laze about in your homeaway from home.
jStyle issue 18 │ 73

CULTURE Art × Sento

ふくの湯
FUKU-NO-YU
The idea behind Fuku-no-yu is to provide
patrons with an experience to bring happinessto the body and soul, as well as impart somemeasure of good fortune by soaking in thespacious baths. This is what paved the way forthe “sento of good fortune” concept.
Feng shui aspects have inspired the interior
colour scheme, with the Seven Lucky Gods
forming the theme of the bathing rooms.
The baths featuring strong jets streaming
high-quality well water, and those steepedwith natural herbal medicines are particularly
popular.
74 │ jStyle issue 18

FUKU-NO-YU
Address: 5-41-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (a fiveminute walk from Hon-komagome station on theTokyo Metro Namboku Line)
Web: www.sentou-bunkyo.com/pg65.html
Trading hours: Weekdays 11 AM – 12 AM; Sat, Sun,and public holidays 8 AM – 12 AM (open all year
round)

SAKAE-YU

栄湯

SAKAE-YU
Address: 2-6-2, Nishiochiai, Shinjuku-ku,
Tokyo (an eight-minute walk from Ochiaiminami-nagasaki station on the Toei Oedo
Line)
Web: https://twitter.com/skey_tgd1010
Trading hours: 3 PM – 12 AM, closed on
Mondays and Fridays

OTSUKA KINEN-YU
A cosmic wonderland graces the ceiling of thisrelaxing oasis. This particular sento is a retro
retreat deeply-rooted in its local surrounds. It was
built during the Taisho period (1912 – 1926)
and was bestowed the new name “Kinen-yu”(commemorative bath) to commemorate the changes
over the Taisho period to the Showa period.The sento
was renovated into a building-style bath and is now
run by the bath madame and mistress.
Travellers, and public-bath amateurs are welcome
with arms wide open! Rock up without any gear
required. Tattoos are also a non-issue here and thefree Wi-Fi is a welcome addition. There are also baths
with the temperature dialled down for people of allages and genders to enjoy!

大塚記念湯This sento was newly renovatedon November 1st, 2017 andis located near Tetsugaku-do
Park (park of philosophy),which is the inspiration behindthe facility’s concept of beinga “public bath of philosophy”.
The baths here are lit up in
four beautiful colours, eachcorresponding to a different
philosophy-related figure – theyellow Buddha sauna; the blue
Kant bath, the purple Socrates
bath, and the orange Confucius
bath (semi-outdoor).
Escape the distractions andmainstream concepts of city-life
by resetting your mind, andfind yourself again in this spaceaway from the daily grind.

OTSUKA KINEN-YU
Address: 3-38-15, Minami Otsuka,
Toshima-ku, Tokyo (a three-minute walkfrom the southern exit of Otsuka stationon the Yamanote Line)
Web: www.toshima1010.org/
sentozyoho/324.html
Trading hours: (Ground floor) Kinen-yu 2
PM – 1 AM, (1st floor) sauna 12 PM – 12
AM, closed on Fridays (*Same entrance)

jStyle issue 18 │ 75

Arita Porcelain

One of Japanese representative traditional arts

HISTORY OF ARITA PORCELAIN

The history of Arita porcelain dates back about
400 years, when Yi Sam-pyeong discovered thewhite clay kaolin and then fired Japan’s firstporcelain.
In the late 19th century, the 18th-century
vogue for Chinoserie (European translationsof Asian decorative arts) that established newroles for East Asian furnishings in European
interiors, was followed by a wave of Japonism,and ceramics became an important andincreasingly celebrated trade good for the newly
industrialising Meiji Era (1868-1912) Japan.
HIGHLY PRIZED IN JAPAN FOR THE HIGHQUALITY OF THEIR ARTISTRY

Located in western Saga prefecture, Izumiyama
Quarry Arita is the original home of Japanese
porcelain. In the early 17th century, theKorean potter Kanagae Sanbee I (also known as
Yi Sam-pyeong) discovered a source of kaolin
clay underneath the Izumiyama mountainin Arita, and began firing the nation’s firstporcelain. This became known as Arita
porcelain, or Arita-yaki. Consequently, Arita
became the first place in Japan to produce
porcelain.
76 │ jStyle issue 18

From the mid-17th century, theDutch East India Company exported
large quantities of porcelain ware from
Arita to buyers throughout the world,
mainly in Europe. Solid and durable, Arita
porcelain became known for its finely painted,
vivid decorations in indigo blue, red, yellow,
and gold. Arita’s techniques and traditions havebeen carried on over 400 years, and even today
it is beloved by pottery fans the world over.

SEIKO Presage Arita Porcelain
Japan’s Timeless Traditions: Arita Porcelain
INSPIRED BY ART, FIRED BY PASSION

In the early 1600s, clay suitable for porcelain
was discovered in Arita, a small Japanese town
in northwest Kyushu, and a new Japanesetradition was born. By the end of the century,
Arita porcelain — sometimes known as Imariware because of the port from which it wasshipped — was not only popular in Japan, it
had also become a highly coveted status symbol
in royal palaces throughout Europe. Enchantedby its delicate beauty, exquisite texture, andintricate, hand-painted designs, Europeanaristocrats competed to learn the secrets of theArita production process. Consequently, Arita
porcelain greatly influenced the developmentof porcelain making in Europe.
For over 400 years, Arita has remained thespiritual center of porcelain crafting in Japan— the oldest kiln goes back to the Edo period— honoring a heritage of artistic mastery that
excites collectors and fires the imagination ofcraftsmen throughout the world. Now SeikoPresage pays tribute to this elegant Japanesetradition with two exceptional timepieces
featuring dials of Arita porcelain.
ONLY IN JAPAN: THRICE BAKED TOPERFECTION

Blending two of Japan’s most notablecharacteristics — tradition and technology— the Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain isa tribute to the spirit of craftsmanship.
Overseen by master craftsman Hiroyuki
Hashiguchi, the project involved years ofexperimentation, for it required a heretofore
unknown level of precision; each dial has aslightly different dial colour and shape after
firing, this is very unique.
Additionally, a new type of Arita porcelain
was formulated to increase durability. A
high-precision mold is used to ensure theconsistency of size, depth and recesses. Afterdrying, the dials are baked at 1300 °C, handglazed, and baked again. The second firing
bonds the glaze to the dial and brings out
the subtle blue tint. Finally, holes for thehands and date window are made, and a third
baking smoothes the surfaces. The result isa dial that radiates perfection, a hallmark of
Arita porcelain.
A PORCELAIN TRIBUTE

In the finest tradition of Japanese craftsmanship,
two new members of the Seiko Presage series
feature Arita porcelain dials. These are thicker
than traditional dials, which makes possible agentle curve, as well as the deep recesses thathouse the power-reserve and date indicator of
one model. Both versions pay homage to Seiko’s
historic 1913 Laurel — Japan’s first wristwatch— with a striking red XII. Additionally, theblue numerals are ideally complemented by thedial’s subtle bluish tint, a pleasing shade thatcharacterizes Arita Porcelain.
jStyle issue 18 │ 77

CULTURE Factory × Night view

Toa Oil Keihin Refinery

Industrial
Night
Views
Beautiful Japanesesights in the darknessof night
Industrial night views, createdby the lighting up of industrial
complexes and factories using
industrial night lights, has a
deep-rooted popularity inJapan spanning over 10 years.
I set off to cover these sights
through various activities andtrack down the charms of these
unconventional night views.
Words: Ryoji Yamauchi
Photographs supplied by: KMC Corporation(Tel: +81-45-290-8377, Web: reservedcruise.
com/e, Email: info@reservedcruise.com)

78 │ jStyle issue 18

INDUSTRIAL NIGHT VIEWS TRENDING
IN JAPAN

Are you familiar with the active efforts offanatics in Japan who love industrial complexes,
illuminated night-time factories, chimneys,and other beautiful structures? The view of
the night sky from mountaintop observation
platforms or towers differs from that of theindustrial night views. In fact, this rather nichenight sight has garnered attention for quite
some time now. During the daytime, theseindustrial complexes and factories possess
not much more than inorganic external
appearances, but come nightfall the industrial
lights illuminate them to create a beautiful,fantastical sight akin to that of a science
fiction movie scene. It is these industrial nightviews that have garnered much gushing andcomments about how calming the sights are,and have turned them into popular, yet littleknown night-time scenic hot spots.
The industrial night view boom started in the
mid 2000s. The person who lit the fuse to theboom was Tetsu Ishii an illustrator who shared
his blog about industrial night views on social
media. He made appearances on Japanese variety
shows in 2006 to profess his love for thesefactories, before releasing a photobook in March
2007, followed by the sale of industrial nightview-themed merchandise. In 2010, the firstever Japanese “industrial night view calendar”

Yokohama Bay Bridge

Flare stacks

was released with the official recognition andcomplete support of the city of Kawasaki in
Kanagawa prefecture. After its release, thecalendar gained increased exposure on TV,
newspapers, radio and other media outlets,
making it a staple calendar sold every year. The
beauty and wonders of industrial night views
continue to be spread to many to this day.
Local municipalities have also hopped
aboard the factory night view train byorganizing different activities. In 2011, thefirst “Industrial Night View Summit” was heldin Kawasaki to get cities thinking about how
to promote local growth through industrial
night views. The first iteration of the summit
only consisted of four cities – Kawasaki,
Kanagawa prefecture; Muroran, Hokkaido
prefecture; Yokkaichi, Mie prefecture; andKitakyushu, Fukuoka prefecture. By theninth summit in 2018, the number of cities
had increased to 11. The increasing numberof cities pushing their industrial night views
just goes to show how important of a tourism
resource these views are to Japan.
THE PIONEERING CITY AND THE
CHANGING IMAGE

Admiring industrial night views all around
Japan has now become a popular sightseeing
option, however, as can be drawn fromthe previously mentioned first “Industrial
Night View Summit”, it was the city of
Kawasaki (Kanagawa prefecture) thatspearheaded this movement. Kawasaki ishome to Japan’s largest industrial area – theKeihin Industrial Area.
This industrial area spreads from the west
part of Tokyo Bay through to Kawasaki,with Yokohama in the centre and Saitama
prefecture to the north, and consists of steel,oil-refining, petrochemistry factories and otherheavy chemical industries. Factories have andcontinue to support the Japanese economy,
however, the 1960s saw these industrial areas
stamped with negative imagery due to themajor environmental problems arising fromthe waste water and smoke produced by them.
The industrial night view boom has helped
to completely flip this negative image into a
positive one, and there also happens to be acertain activity created in order to support thisimage change – sea cruises.
It may sound a little excessive to go cruising
just to admire the night scenery, however, thisactually serves as the most logical way to see
the sights. This is because industrial complexes
and factories are surrounded by confidential
matters by nature, and are difficult to get close
to on land due to counter-terrorism measures.
The Keihin Industrial Area is particularly
difficult to approach due to large number offactories in the area surrounded by clusters oftrees or fences. Sailing by the factories lining
the coastline offers an unobstructed view – theperfect way to enjoy the night scenery. The
glow of the lights reflecting off the water is alsoa lovely sight that cannot be enjoyed on land,
and another reason that makes admiring thesights on a cruise so enticing.
jStyle issue 18 │ 79

CULTURE Factory × Night view
A JAPAN-FIRST FACTORY
NIGHT-VIEW CRUISE

I set out to cover the “Factory Night View
Jungle Cruise” offered by KMC Corporation
for this article. This is the original industrial
night view cruise, and also happens to be thepreviously mentioned method of cruisingaround the Keihin Industrial Area.
The Night View Jungle Cruises started
operating on 7 June 2008. A small boat witha capacity of 30 people was originally used toferry industrial-night-view fanatics around thebay, before the boost in popularity saw a waitingtime of up to four months the following year.
Currently, the cruise operates on weekends from
Friday to Sunday, on a 50-person capacity boat(with this number possibly increasing dependingon the time of the year).
This cruise ship sets sail at sunset from the
Red Brick Warehouse Pier near the “Minato
Mirai 21” Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
There are also other companies that offer thesame service, but the fact that this particular
cruise times its departure with the sunset is aplus. Who doesn’t appreciate the opportunity
to watch the sun set, or the night sky fade from

Higashi Ogishima Oil Terminal

80 │ jStyle issue 18

Showa Denko (Okawa-cho)

deep blue to pitch black before admiring thenight views?
The cruise runs for one and a half hours, andvisits 13 night-view spots (or 14 on the special
Friday course), with a sail through an almost
maze-like canal part-way through. As you cruise
through the forest of factories, you come tounderstand how the cruise tour got its name.
Immediately after departing, passengers will
be greeted by the impressive sight of the iconic
Yokohama Bay Bridge and Tsurumi Tsubasa
Bridge. On a lucky day, there might also be
the sight of a brightly lit-up luxury cruise liner
anchored at the port for passengers to awe at.
Keep reading for my focus on a few of the

spots the Night Factory Jungle Cruise happens
to sail by. It goes without saying that every oneof the spots is unique in its own way owing
to their different illuminations and patterns.
There are different charms to discover along
the way.
Let’s start with the Higashi Ogishima Oil
Terminal at the very beginning. The giant oil
tank found here is already impressive in itself,
however, the sight of the numerous white lights
reflecting brightly off it is simply incredible.
Prepare for the eye-catching sight of flare stacks(industrial chimneys) emitting flames towards the
middle of the cruise. These structures are used to
de-toxify excess gases produced by gas processing
facilities and refineries by burning them off.
The sight of these flare stacks on approach isremarkable, and even inspired movie director,
Ridley Scott, who incorporated this sight into ascene of Blade Runner.
Be sure not to miss the Toa Oil Keihin
Refinery and the Showa Denko power plant(there are two plants, one in Okawa-cho, theother in Ogimachi) at the very end of the cruise.
Both of these spots are absolutely stunning forthe brilliant concentration of lights on display.
The ship used for the Night View Jungle Cruise

Showa Denko (Ogimachi)

has two levels. The bottom level is completely
enclosed, whereas the top deck is where I would
recommend passengers set up base for this section
and the previously mentioned flare stacks. Thisis because being out in the open allows you to see
the billowing smoke, hear the mechanical soundsof the facilities in operation, and smell the wafting
oil in the air, amongst other sensory experiences.
Using your senses, other than sight, to experience
these night views will make you almost feel as
though these inorganic structures have some formof life within them. These mysterious experiences
can only be had when gazing upon industrial
night views.
After viewing all of the spots on the cruisingcourse, the ship is greeted by the dazzling lights
of Minato Mirai 21 as it returns to port.
Admiring the industrial night views on a sea
cruise offers the unique experience of seeing
the shining beauty of night lights illuminating
industrial complexes and factories, and theopportunity to enjoy their industrial beauty. It
also brings you up close to what makes Japanthe great manufacturing nation. Make sometime on a weekend during your stay in Japanto see the industrial night views and enjoy the
mysterious beauty they have to offer.

jStyle issue 18 │ 81

TRAVEL Hotel to Experience
The Club Floor Premier Grand is the most luxurious room offered by the
KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO with the concept of providing a firstclass accommodation experience in Tokyo. These rooms are located on a
special floor reserved for certain guests. Found in the modern-Japanese guest
rooms are top quality products from around the world. Beautiful sights canbe seen from the spacious 535-metre² Club Lounge sitting at 160 metresabove ground level in your own private oasis. The East meets West design
features the indigo tones of a Japanese garden, whilst the traditional piecesof Japanese art showcasing Japanese ink, lacquer, and washi (Japanese paper)
create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Various experiences are on offer for
guests, including tea ceremonies, flower arrangement, and yukatas. Of thesevarious experiences, make sure to drop by the “Sho-fu-an” teaceremony room to try your hand at the formal tradition oftea ceremony explained in English. Preparing tea in thisEnter for your chance toway will get you in touch with the beautiful Japanese
win a reader’s prize forconcept of wabi-sabi (beauty in transience andtwo nights in one room
imperfection) as well as omotenash (hospitality).
for two people in the ClubKEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO“Premier Grand”
Address: 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku,
Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Web: www.keioplaza.com
Contact via the enquiry
section on the KEIO PLAZAHOTEL TOKYO website

Keio Plaza
Hotel Tokyo“Premier Grand”

Floor Premier Grand withbreakfast and Lounge
access included. See page
15 for entry details.

Unique Hotels
Offering
Wonderful
Experiences
There are a number of “interesting” hotels to befound in Japan, ranging from the old-fashioned,
traditional establishments to those plucked out fromthe not-too-distant future. Find the hotel of yourdreams to create fond memories of your travels.

remm
Tokyo
Kyobashiremm Tokyo Kyobashi
Address: 2-6-21 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Web: www.hankyu-hotel.com/hotel/remm/
tokyo-kyobashi
Contact via the enquiry section on the remm
Tokyo Kyobashi website

82 │ jStyle issue 18

MOSHIMOSHI
ROOMS

MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS is a home-sharing facility opened notlong ago in December 2018. It is located in the fashion, food, andcultural hub of Harajuku and offers a highly original accommodation
concept not found in other hotels. The glamorous and unique rooms
inspired by themes such as “ORIGAMI” and “SAKURA” maintaintheir Harajuku-esque touch whilst also creating essentiallyJapanese spaces. Music events and other gatherings canalso be held using the BBQ and DJ equipment foundon the hotel rooftop. This hotel is located in a popularneighbourhood, with the cafes, izakaya (Japanese pubs),
and bars in the area loved by
Harajuku locals. Are you readyto experience life in Harajuku?
MOSHI MOSHI ROOMS
Address: 2-18-7 Jingumae,
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Web: rooms.moshimoshinippon.jp
Email: info@rokuyon.co.jp

The remm Tokyo Kyobashi
opened its doors in April 2019
to offer guests “a good night’s
sleep”. This establishment
has collaborated with Nihon
Bed (a famous Japanese bed
manufacturer) to develop an
original bed that is a perfect
fit for the body, providing agently wrapped-up sleeping
experience. Rooms are
furnished with two different
pillows, with numerous others
available for loan so guests canpick their own perfect pillow.
The bathrooms feature gentle
rain showers that release waterfrom the ceiling, as well as
original bath amenities for an
enjoyable bath-time experience.

First
Cabin

FIRST CABIN is a hotel inspired by the firstclass cabins of planes. This establishment has
garnered great reviews for their reasonable, yet
excellent service and stylish rooms based on
their “compact and luxurious” concept. There
are locations in Tokyo, Osaka, and even the
popular powder-snow destination of Niseko
in Hokkaido. Of the four different types of
FIRST CABIN rooms, the FirstClass Cabin is the one to go for,offering a 4.4m2 room with a semidouble bed to give even taller folk a
comfortable experience. The sharedfacilities, such as a large public bath,are decked out and the amenities arehand-picked for quality.

BnA Hotel
Koenji /BnA Studio
Akihabara
A hotel where you can sleep inan artist’s creation. The conceptbehind the BnA HOTEL Koenji
is a hotel which incorporates thewhole of Koenji with art rooms
around the town” and the hotel
is currently doing just that in aworld first. The theme of the BnASTUDIO Akihabara is, “livingwith art, a next-generation Tokyo
urban lifestyle”. Guests can stay in
one of these rooms surrounded by
the art of spirited artists.

BnA HOTEL KOENJI / BnA
STUDIO AKIHABARAFIRST CABIN

Address: [Koenji] 2-4-7 Koenjikita,
Suginami-ku, Tokyo

Address: Various locations in Japan (Hokkaido, Chiba, Kyoto, Ishikawa, Aichi,
Kyoto, Osaka, Wakayama, Fukuoka, and Nagasaki)[Akihabara] 6-3-3 Sotokanda,
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Web: www.first-cabin.jp

Web: www.bna-hotel.com

Enquire via the Frequently Asked Questions section on the website

Email: info@bna-hotel.com

jStyle issue 18 │ 83

TRAVEL Hotel to Experience

SAKURA
HOUSE/SAKURA
HOTEL &HOSTELSAKURA HOUSE / SAKURA HOTEL& HOSTEL
Address: Various locations in Japan(Tokyo, Kyoto, and Izu)
Web: www.sakurahotel.co.jp
Contact via the enquiry section on theofficial website

84 │ jStyle issue 18

SAKURA HOUSE / SAKURA HOTEL & HOSTEL has
been offering accommodation services catered especially foroverseas travellers for over 25 years, with SAKURA HOUSE
providing weekly and monthly stay options for longer visits,
and SAKURA HOTEL & HOSTEL accommodating
short-term guests. Feel free to take your pick from the rangeof different stay options comprising of the hostel, guest house,monthly apartment, and vacation rental.
Group visitors from Australia staying at this facility
continue to increase, and high praise has been received,
especially from families with children. Parents are able toprepare food for children, who are not fond of Japanese
food, in kitchens, reducing any stress during their travels.
Group rooms at SAKURA HOTEL NIPPORI andSAKURA HOSTEL ASAKUSA are recommended
for short-stay families or groups, whereas the monthly
apartment or vacation rental at SAKURA HOUSE are
great for stays of a week or more.
One of the top reasons to stay here is none other thanthe Japanese cultural experiences on offer for guests. Luckyguests can join in with locals to carry the mikoshi (portableshrine) at ceremonial events of traditional Japanese festivals,
get special access to watch sumo wrestlers train, and enjoyother different experiences. These events are only madepossible because the hotel has earned the trust of locals
through their long years of trade, and travel agents could
only ever dream of putting together such experiences at
the great prices found here. Dive into a unique culturalexperience at your accommodation of choice on your next
long-waited trip to Japan.

JAPAN IN SYDNEY

Experience
Japan in Sydney
You can learn about Japanese culture andlanguage in Sydney and in the surrounding
areas. There are many shops that stock an
eye-boggling selection of Japanese goods,
and Japanese-style hot spring ryokans to visit.
Experience a taste of Japan in Australia.

jStyle issue 18 │ 85

JAPAN IN SYDNEY

Gojyuan was opened in August 2013 when
Australian owner, Linda Evans, and herhusband, Steve, undertook a completerenovation of their home to incorporate all of
the inspiration they brought back with themfrom Japan.
This establishment is popular as it offers
accommodation, the opportunity to take a day
trip to experience their natural cypress baths,
and also a variety of different workshops to learn
and experience Japanese culture first hand.
Linda continues her efforts to provide
even more workshops purely out of her own
fascination and passion. She hopes that many
people come to experience the “showcase of
hospitality” and learn about Japan throughtheir visits to Gojyuan.
This feature will focus on two workshops
covering aspects of Japanese culture that shouldbe passed down to all – kimono and temari.
TEMARI WORKSHOP
Instructor: Chihiro Kownacki from TEMARI Sydney

Temari (decorative Japanese balls, literally“hand ball”) is a traditional form of Japanesefolk art. The balls are a highly artistic formof Japanese culture and are decorated with86 │ jStyle issue 18

GojyuanWorkshops to experience and share all things Japangorgeous, intricate embroidery featuringseasonal flowers, plants, geometric andtraditional Japanese patterns. One of thecharms of these temari is that different colour
combinations and stitching methods can makeballs of the same pattern look completely
different, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations.
The temari workshops only take place in
Ryokan Gojyuan. They are held on the last
Saturday of every month, and the second Friday
of every other month.
Temari-making can be split into three main steps.
1. Make a base ball
2. Divide up the ball (ball may be divided into
sixths, eighths, etc. depending on the pattern)3. Stitch a pattern onto the surface
Since the workshop only runs for ashort two hours, instructor Chihiro has
already done the hard work of making
the base balls for participants. She will
also demonstrate the first step during theworkshop, before letting everyone get into thefun part of stitching the patterns.
There are approximately 10 different
patterns taught at these workshops ranging
from flowers such as chrysanthemums,
cherry blossoms, and poinsettias,
to geometric patterns such as
diamonds, and spindles. Different
patterns are taught on rotation
every month.
At the end of each workshop,
participants have their photos takenwith their newly-made temari.
While different regions of Japanuse different threads such as silk, plantdyed cotton, and rayon, this workshop uses
threads that can be easily obtained in Sydney sothat participants can go home and make theirown temari whenever they please.
A step-by-step manual with photos
explaining the three steps for making temari
is distributed to participants. Perhaps you canalso become a master of Japanese traditionalarts with the help of these trusty manuals.

KIMONO SALON
Instructor: Tae Gessner from the International
Kimono Club Sydney

The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment.
Its beauty needs no explanation as it has
become a piece of clothing recognised all
around the world. Kimono are quite expensive
and while they are no longer worn as frequently
in Japan as they were in the past, they arestill donned for special occasions such as
weddings and other celebratory events. Despite
the special nature of the garment, the sightof international visitors walking down the
traditional streets of Japan dressed in kimono
and yukata has become almost commonplace.
This workshop not only allows participants
to learn about kimono and how to wear them,

but also gives them the opportunity to choose
from close to 100 different kimono and obi(belt), style their own colour combinations,and then take photos of themselves in theirchosen style to cherish the fun memories. Tae
Gessner, the instructor of this workshop, hasspent most of her life around kimono and was
influenced by her mother who owned a kimono
business. She was the recipient of the Japanese
Consul-General's Commendation in 2018 forher contribution to promoting kimono andJapanese culture.
Workshops are held on the second Saturdayof every month from 11 AM to 2 PM withsmall classes consisting of a maximum of threepeople. The workshop costs $120, which
includes kimono, zori (Japanese sandals), andhair accessory rental, as well as the fee to use
the space provided by Gojyuan. Workshop
participants will also receive a pair of tabi
(traditional Japanese socks worn with kimono)
as a welcome souvenir. Try your hand atlearning how to wear a kimono and then strut
your stuff on the streets of Sydney to show off
your beautiful kimono when you’ve mastered
the art of kimono dressing!

208 Darling St., Balmain NSW
Web: www.ryokangojyuan.com

208 Darling Street Balmain NSW 2041 Tel: (02) 9810 3219

w w w.r yok a ngojy ua n.com

Authentic Ryokan Experience
8254GOJY

jStyle issue 18 │ 87

JAPAN IN SYDNEY
As a country home to 7% of the world’s active
volcanoes, Japan is also an onsen mecca. Many
people spend much of their spare time traversing
all of the onsens to be experienced in Japan due
to the unique characteristics, locales, and water
properties to be found all over the country. It
would be safe to say that there are probably many
jStyle readers who have experienced the joys ofJapanese hot springs themselves first hand.
Conversely, there may be some Japanese
fanatics out there who are deploring the factthat there are few hot springs here in Australia.
To the disappointed onsen appreciators
out there – are you aware that there is anestablishment just outside of Sydney that
replicates the Japanese onsen ryokan experience?
This inn is none other than the Japanese
Bath House in the Blue Mountains (formerly“Sparadise” and “竜神湯” in Japanese).
The Japanese Bath House is owned by aJapanese doctor who lives in Kyoto and wasBlue
Mountains– Japanese
Bath House
An authentic Japanese
hot spring inn just westof Sydney

88 │ jStyle issue 18

originally built to privately entertain his guests
during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Following the Olympics, the owner opened up
the hot spring inn to the public 3 days a week
in order for Australians to learn more about
the onsen culture. The bath house continues tooperate in this fashion to this day.
There are a total of 7 baths with temperaturesof 38 and 40 degrees Celsius to choose from,
including the 3 open-air baths, a large indoor
bath with a shower area, the cave bath, as well as aherbal steam bath filled with fragrant aromatics.
The cave bath comes highly recommended forthe unique and extremely relaxing experience
on offer. There is nothing quite like a good soakin the thermal waters of a dimly lit cavern. The
herbal steam bath is another luxurious experienceof sitting back and taking in the calming
fragrances wafting around in the moistened air.
A dip in the hot springs dug out from 300 metres
underground is said to be beneficial for arthritis

and gout due to the rich calcium and ironconcentration of the waters.
The grounds of the establishment itself
can be split up into 3 buildings – the mainbuilding housing the hot spring facilities, andthe 2 accommodation facilities. Each of theaccommodation buildings have their own
unique style; the Cabin is, as the name suggests,a cabin-style building, whereas the Tudor
House is a Tudor-style building with luxurious
Japanese rooms nestled within it.
Bathing suits must be worn for dips in themixed public baths, however, for those looking
for a more authentic Japanese experience,
there are private bath rooms on offer thatcan be reserved for dips completely unrobed.
The private bath rooms come complete witha beautifully woven bamboo sofa, 2 massage
tables, and a cauldron-shaped bathtub.
Wonderfully aromatic fragrances fill the air
with the background melodies of healing music
to soothe the soul as guests can be treated to a 1hour massage after a dip in bath in their privateroom. For a truly luxurious experience, theprivate bath rooms simply cannot be passed up.
Within the bath house grounds is a restaurant
serving Japanese cuisine with a gorgeous indoorstone garden inside of it. It is an absolute treat tofeast upon the authentic Japanese cuisine dished
up by the Japanese chef. The Japanese BathHouse also dabbles in tea growing, so there are avariety of different teas available for purchase as
well. Relaxing with a herbal tea after a long soak in
the thermal waters sure does hit the spot.
The grounds of the Japanese Bath House arestrictly alcohol free due to the risk of fainting
after a soak in the hot springs. For thoselooking for a quick drink, the town of Lithgow
is a short 10 to 15 minute drive away.
Expansion of the bath house is on the cards
at the moment, with construction of a cavernstyled bath inside of a garden maze lined up forthe near future. Check out the Japanese BathHouse’s official Facebook page to stay up todate with their latest posts.

Japanese Bath House –Blue Mountains Sparadise
Escape from your busy lifestyle... Come and indulge your senses

www.japanesebathhouse.com.au/bathhouse.asp
8453JAPA

jStyle issue 18 │ 89

JAPAN IN SYDNEY

Sushi Kaido

Real sushi made by a Japanese sushi chef
Word about Sushi Kaido, located in
Chatswood, is going around amongst locals
in the know about all things Japanese. This
restaurant is already a bustling neighbourhood
hot spot for the variety of sushi offerings to befound at a reasonable price. While it may be asushi-train restaurant, many customers comefor the made-to-order selections to enjoy theflavours served by an experienced Japanesesushi chef.
Sushi Kaido strives for freshness and quality,with a policy to only offer the best. As such,only fish in season are procured for raw items
to ensure freshness and authentic Japanese
flavours without straining the wallet. In fact,
toro (tuna belly) is imported straight fromJapan, and the unagi (eel) is lovingly marinatedin the chef’s secret sauce. A popular menu item
amongst patrons is the aburi, which are sushi
seared with a burner before being served.
Many customers keep coming back for thevariety of sushi that cannot be had at otherrestaurants, from the less common white-flesh
fish, to the different types of shellfish.

Ordering over the phone for takeaway is also
an option for those who don’t have the time tosit down to enjoy the fresh selections. Also be
sure to take note of the impressive platters foryour next party or gathering.
Make a bee-line for Sushi Kaido the nexttime your stomach rumbles for some authentic
Japanese sushi in Sydney at a reasonable price.
Shop 7, 376 Victoria Ave., Chatswood NSW 2067
Tel: (02) 9415-3011
Web: www.sushikaido.com.au

Order yourfavourites!

Crossing the sushi-train rails
Sushi made by a professional Japanese sushi chef
Freshness and quality guaranteed

location：Shop 7, 376 Victoria Ave., Chatswood
Web：www.sushikaido.com.au
Operating Hours：TUE・WED・SUN 11AM-9PM,
THU・FRI・SAT 11AM-9:30PM, MON :Close
8262KAID

90 │ jStyle issue 18

JAPAN IN SYDNEY

AZUMA

A well-established restaurant that has served the current
emperor of Japan and has been driving the Japanese foodscene in Sydney for over 20 years.
At the age of 16, Kimitaka Azuma made thedecision to devote himself to the world of foodand started training in Japan. At 18 Kimitaka
moved to Tokyo where he spent two years
followed by a year in Bangkok. After that hecontinued to hone his craft at an establishedJapanese hotel group before climbing to theposition of Executive Chef at just 29 years ofage. In 1990 Kimitaka, along with his team offour chefs, moved to Australia.
The allure of Sydney’s fresh produce and everexpanding restaurant culture was what attracted
Kimitaka to the city he would call home.
In 1996 Kimitaka finally opened up his
own Japanese restaurant, Azuma, in Crows
Nest, which within a few years moved toa bigger location at Chifley Tower in the
Sydney CBD.
Whilst Japanese food is now widely
known, Kimitaka introduced true Japanesefood to Sydneysiders, at a time when
Japanese food in Australia only consisted ofsushi, tempura and teriyaki chicken.
The Japanese dishes served byKimitaka were not only appealing fortheir authenticity, but also their artfulpresentation.
Since its early days Azuma has become ago-to for business meals, special occasions,and other major events.
“Omakase” (chef’s choice) meals at sushi bars
have been the latest trend in Sydney, however
Azuma has increased in popularity as it not
only offers this option, but also a “personalisedomakase” which is served much like a traditional
Japanese kaiseki degustation menu.
Owner-chef Kimitaka creates apersonalised multi-course meal for patrons

reflecting their requests
and incorporating
fresh, seasonal produce.
It is this special
experience that makes
it worthy of the $150,$200, or $250 perperson, depending on
the customer request,
price tag. It mighteven be considered
plain robbery when
taking into accountthe interior design anddisplays creating theultimate space to dine.
Kimitaka uses
seasonal Australian produce and serves diners
items that cannot be had elsewhere, such as
karasumi (dried mullet roe) and yuzu kosho(a spicy condiment using a Japanese citrus
fruit).
Kimitaka has also had the honour ofserving dinner to the current emperor ofJapan when he visited Australia as thethen crown prince (the cutlery used at
the time can be found on display inside therestaurant). Azuma has received multiple
awards and was also the winner of the Savour
Australia Restaurant & Catering Hostplus
Awards for Excellence NSW 2019 in theJapanese Restaurant category.
Make sure you pay this special restaurant avisit if you are a fan of Japanese cuisine.

Lunch
Mon-Fri 12PM - 2:30PM
High Tea
Mon-Sat 2PM - 5PM (l.o.4PM)
Dinner
Mon-Sat 6PM - 10PM
Fully Licenced

Level 1, Chifley, 2 Chifley Square Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9222-9960
Web: www.azuma.com.au

www.azuma.com.au
7970AZUM

jStyle issue 18 │ 91

JAPAN IN SYDNEYKUBOTA

Exquisite flavours that
won’t hurt the hip pocket

Located in Petersham (inner-western Sydney) is
the Japanese restaurant, KUBOTA. The ownerand head chef, Koji Kubota, sharpened his
skills at the popular Japanese seafood restaurant
SAKANA-YA for 16 years before venturing out
to create his own signature flavour in February
2019 with the opening of this restaurant.
His vision was to bring the flavours of Japanesecuisine and spread its joy, in this area with few
Japanese establishments, by offering up most of his
exquisite-tasting creations for less than $20 per dish.
There are approximately 10 daily specials of
constantly changing fleeting flavours utilising● Authentic Japanese cuisine● Fresh fish straight from the market● Reasonable dining delights

8549KUBO

92 │ jStyle issue 18

the best ingredients of the day and season. A
variety of different sake can also be found tocomplement the different dishes. Feel free to
ask the friendly owner or Japanese restaurant
staff for some recommendations.
Kubota goes all the way to the markets tosee the fish for himself to ensure that he has
personally approved everything served in his
restaurant – this is one aspect he will absolutely
not compromise on. He also tastes all of his
dishes and will not serve anything he finds subpar. The restaurant itself is styled in a homely
fashion and is very much a reflection of theowner’s welcoming nature. Within the comfortsof these confines also lies an almost samurai-likepassion to serve great food to all those who visit.
Drop by KUBOTA for a casual experience totaste the wonderful flavours of Japanese cuisine.
Shop 1 & 2, 98-106 Audley St., Petersham NSW 2049
Tel: (02) 9569-7774
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/
category/Restaurant/Kubota-japanesecuisine-807103786289880

JAPAN IN SYDNEY

EXPERIENCE THE TASTES OF JAPANFor those who make Japanese food at home,knowing where to buy ingredients is crucial.
While stores selling Japanese foodstuffs
can be found across Australia, Tokyo Martin Northbridge Plaza on the north side of
the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a key spot toJapanese expatriates and Australians alike.
Known for having possibly the greatest rangeof any Japanese supermarket in Sydney, thesheer variation on offer is a sight for first-time
visitors, ranging from high-quality Japanese rice
to condiments, sweets, dried goods, fresh food,and a Japanese-operated bakery.
With over 20 types of dashi alone, a coreingredient in authentic Japanese cooking, you
are sure to find what you need. Their Japanese
staff are also on hand to answer questions.

Tokyo
Mart

For all your Japanesefood and sake needs in
SydneyIn addition to its sale of goods, Tokyo Mart
periodically holds events where you cantry Japanese food and sake. The chance toexperience and take home a taste of Japan is atrue highlight of Tokyo Mart. Check out theTokyo Mart Facebook page where information
on events is advertised approximately one
month in advance.
Tokyo Mart also holds monthly 20%
discount sales on items of a given category,offering new bargains no matter how manytimes you visit. Fresh vegetables used inJapanese cooking are also stocked in-store.
Come to Tokyo Mart in Sydney for a
Japanese food adventure today!

Shop 27, Northbridge Plaza, 79-113 Sailors Bay Rd.,
Northbridge, NSW 2063
Tel: (02) 9958-6860
Web: www.junpacific.com/tokyomart

quality
Great range of high s,
Japanese grocerie
price
all at a reasonablel One of the biggest Jap
anese supermarkets in Aus
tralial From Japanese sake andbeers to seafoods, diverse
variaty of productsl Freshness, quality andvalue guranteed on all pro
ducts

Sydney: Shop 27, Northbridge Plaza, Northbridge(02)9958-6860

Mon-Wed,Fri 9AM〜5PM
Thu
9AM〜6PMSat
9AM〜5:30PM
Sun
10AM〜4PM
Public Holidays Closed

日本食品、生活用品、食器の総合スーパーマーケット

Gold Coast: Southport Park Shopping Centre, Cnr Ferry &Benowa Rd, Southport / (07)5591-6211
Brisbane: Shop 5, Buranda Village, 264 Ipswich Rd,
Woolloongabba / (07)3172-7021
Melbourne: 34A Elizabeth St, south Yarra / (03)9826-5839
Perth: Shop 13-14, 29 Station St, Subiaco / (08)6162-8608
0221TOKY

jStyle issue 18 │ 93

TRAVEL Tips

Wakkanai

Asahikawa
SapporoGetting aroundNisekoTravelling around Japan with easeShin-Aomori

Aomori Airport

Morioka

Akita

JAPAN'S MAJOR
INTERNATIONALAIRPORTS

Yamagata

Kanazawa
Komatsu Airport
Hiroshima Airport

Hiroshima
Hakata(Fukuoka)

Fukuoka
AirportNagasakiItami Airport

Izumo
Kobe

Kagoshima

Naha

Kyoto

Fukushima
Echigo-Yuzawa
NaganoHakubaTakayama
Mt. Fuji
Gifu

NagoyaChubu Airport

Nara
Osaka

Kumamoto

Nanki-Shirahama Airport

Kagoshima
AirportNarita International Airport

Haneda Airport

Shin
Yatsushiro

Naha AirportTOKYO

Yokohama

Takamatsu
Tokushima
Kochi
Beppu

Matsuyama
AirportSendai

Niigata
Noto

Kansai International Airport

The flight schedule is correct as ofNovember 1, 2019 and is subject to change.
▪ANA: ana.co.jp/en/jp/international▪JAL: jal.com/index.html▪Jetstar: jetstar.com/au/en/home▪Qantas Airways: qantas.com/au/en.html

JAPAN TO AUSTRALIA
From

To

Airlines
JAL

AUSTRALIA TO JAPAN
From

To
Tokyo (Narita)

CairnsOsaka (KIX)Tokyo (Narita)
Airlines
JetstarFlight No. Departure
JQ25

Qantas

QF249

Jetstar

JQ15

Qantas

QF241

12:15

13:00

19:25

BrisbaneTokyo (Narita)

Qantas

QF61

9:25

17:30

Gold Coast

Tokyo (Narita)

Jetstar

JQ11

10:30

18:30

ANA

NH880

21:30

5:05 (+1)

Tokyo (Haneda)
SydneyMelbourne

94 │ jStyle issue 18

Qantas

QF25

21:35

5:00 (+1)

Tokyo (Narita)

JAL

JL772

9:15

17:00

Osaka (KIX)

Qantas

QF33

9:35

17:30

JAL

JL774

0:45

8:40

Qantas

QF79

9:20

17:40

Tokyo (Narita)

CairnsArrival
18:45

KushiroShin Chitose
AirportOsaka (KIX)

CairnsBrisbaneTokyo (Narita)Gold Coast
SydneyTokyo (Haneda)

SydneyOsaka (KIX)

SydneyTokyo (Narita)

Melbourne

Flight No. Departure

ArrivalJL5089Jetstar

JQ26

Qantas

QF250

JAL

JL5083Jetstar

JQ16

Qantas

QF242

20:10

4:40 (+1)

20:55

5:15 (+1)

19:30

5:40 (+1)

20:55

6:55 (+1)

19:00

6:50 (+1)

Qantas

QF62

JAL

JL5081

Jetstar

JQ12

JAL

JL771

ANA

NH879

22:20

9:55 (+1)

Qantas

QF26

22:00

9:35 (+1)

Qantas

QF34

19:00

6:40 (+1)

JAL

JL773

11:00

23:05

Qantas

QF80

19:20

7:55 (+1)

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS FROM TOKYO(BY JAL OR ANA)To

Duration

Shin-Chitose (Hokkaido)

1hr30min

Aomori1hr15min

Komatsu (Ishikawa)

1hr

Osaka (KIX)

1hr15min

Nanki-Shirahama(Wakayama)

1hr20minHiroshima

1hr30minMatsuyama (Ehime)

1hr35minFukuoka

1hr55minKagoshima

1hr55minNaha (Okinawa)

2hr40minTRAVELLING TO TOKYO FROM THE AIRPORTS(NARITA AND HANEDA)
FROM
NARITAFROM
HANEDATRAINS

TRAINS

Narita Airport has two key rail
connections operating between Tokyo
Station and Narita Airport Terminal
2 station. The Skyliner is the fastest
option (53min / 2,680yen) for travel toTokyo. JR EAST’s Narita Express (N’EX)
connects Narita Airport to Tokyo Station(58min / 3,020yen).

There are two types of trains connecting Haneda
Airport to central Tokyo. The first of which is theTokyo Monorail, which connects Haneda Airport toHamamatsucho Station (13min rapid service fromthe airport / 500yen per adult). The second involves
taking a train on the Keikyu Line from Haneda
Airport International Terminal Station to Shinagawa
Station (approx. 20min / 300yen). Tokyo Station canbe reached by a single trip on the JR Line from both
Hamamatsucho and Shinagawa stations.

BUSES
The Tokyo Shuttle is one way to getto Tokyo by bus, connecting Narita
Airport to Tokyo Station (approx. 60min/ 1,000yen). THE ACCESS NARITA also
connects Narita Airport to Tokyo Station(approx. 60min / 1,000yen).

BUSES
There is also the Airport Limousine Bus connecting
Haneda Airport directly to Tokyo Station (approx.
40min / 930yen per adult *1,860yen early morning /late at night).

EMERGENCIESFor police assistance call 110 (free call frompublic phones if you press the red button) or
look for the nearest koban (police box) marked
with a red pentagonal light. For the fire
department or an ambulance call 119.

jStyle issue 18 │ 95

TRAVEL Tips
VISAS

POSTAL SERVICE

Visitors to Japan from Australia do not
require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Under Japan's New Immigration Procedures,
all visitors must present their passport upon
arrival and agree to be fingerprinted andphotographed. Immigration may also ask a few
quick questions. See www.immi-moj.go.jp/
english for more information.

International mail can beclassified into letter post(letters, aerogrammes
and postcards); parcel
post; and EMS (Express
Mail Service). EMS takes
two to four days to reach
Australia. Airmail or letter
post and parcel post takes
three to six days and sea
mail takes one to threemonths. Parcels must be
under 20 kg. Most post
offices are open 9am to
5pm on weekdays.
post.japanpost.jp/index_
en.html

MONEY ANDCOSTSThe Japanesecurrency unit is theYen (¥). Coins areavailable in units of 1,
5, 10, 50, 100 and 500
yen. Notes are available
in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and
10,000 yen.
From October 2020, consumption tax will
increase from 8 percent to 10 percent.

PUBLIC PHONES
Green or grey public phones can be foundeverywhere in Japan. They accept ¥10 and¥100 coins, and telephone cards that can bepurchased from kiosks and news agencies.
You can make international calls from grey
phones displaying the "International" sign.

TO CALL AUSTRALIA
Japan has three international callproviders. Dial one of their accessnumbers (0033, 001, or 0061) +010 + country code (61) + area
code (without the zero) + personal
number.

TIPPING
Tipping and bartering are notcustomary in Japan.

MOBILE PHONES
Currently, 3G models and 4G LTE work inJapan that use the 2100 MHz band. With
some global roaming plans from Australianservice providers you can use your own
phone to send and receive calls and texts andto access broadband internet. Alternatively,
you can rent a SIM card if it works in Japan
to use with your own phone, or a pre-paid
phone from such service providers as
Softbank and Mobal Narita at Narita Airport
Terminal 1. Renting a portable Wi-Fi routerin Australia to use in Japan is also an option
worth considering. Portable Wi-Fi is a device
that allows multiple machines including
laptops, tablets and smartphones to gaininternet access wherever you are within the
carrier service area.

96 │ jStyle issue 18

Travel Tips
Handy tips and useful
information to know
before travelling to Japan

POSTAGE
Domestic
Mail

Mail toAustralia

EMS

Postcard

63 yen70 yen---Standard
Letterup to 25g

84 yen110 yen

2,000 yenStandard
Letterup to 50g

94 yen190 yen

2,000 yen

Numberof delivery
days

---

7

3

INTERNETInternet cafes are readily accessible in Japan,
especially in the cities. Although big-namechain stores like Global Gossip are prevalent,
the most popular internet cafes in Japan are
manga cafes, which also provide comics,
magazines and video games. You pay timeincrements in either a private booth or acommunal seating area. Special time-packages
are available and there is even the optionof an overnight stay on a reclining seat in a
private booth.

PEAK TRAVEL SEASONSALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Train, bus and flight timetables may change
during the following peak travel seasons: New
Year (December 27 to January 3 and adjacentweekends), Golden Week (April 29 to May
6 and adjacent weekends), Bon Festival (theweek surrounding August 15).

Consumption of
alcohol in public
places such as parks,
beaches, and out
on the streets inJapan is permitted.
If you do happen to
drink, please behave
appropriately anddo not cause any
trouble to others.

WATER
All tap water in Japan is safe to drink.

INFORMATION CENTRESThe Visit Japan Information Network consistsof 324 information services across thecountry. Usually located near major train
stations and town centres, they will provide
information on local tourist sites.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

SapporoSendaiTokyo
Yokkaichi
Osaka
Fukuoka

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency, www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Highs

-0.6

0.1

4.0

11.5

17.3

21.5

24.9

26.4

22.4

16.2

8.5

Dec
2.1

Lows

-7.0

-6.6

-2.9

3.2

8.3

12.9

17.3

19.1

14.2

7.5

1.3

-4.1
8.4

Highs

5.3

5.9

9.2

15.0

19.4

22.3

25.7

27.9

24.4

19.4

13.7

Lows

-1.7

-1.5

0.9

6.1

11.1

15.5

19.5

21.4

17.6

11.2

5.2

0.9

Highs

9.6

10.4

13.6

19.0

22.9

25.5

29.2

30.8

26.9

21.5

16.3

11.9

Lows

0.9

1.7

4.4

9.4

14.0

18.0

21.8

23.0

19.7

14.2

8.3

3.5

Highs

8.6

9.5

12.3

18.3

22.5

25.7

29.4

30.9

27.3

22.0

16.7

11.3

Lows

-0.3

-0.3

2.6

7.7

12.8

17.6

21.7

22.8

19.2

12.3

6.8

1.8

Highs

9.5

10.2

13.7

19.9

24.5

27.8

31.6

33.4

29.3

23.3

17.6

12.3

Lows

2.8

2.9

5.6

10.7

15.6

20.0

24.3

25.4

21.7

15.5

9.9

5.1

Highs

9.9

11.1

14.4

19.5

23.7

26.9

30.9

32.1

28.3

23.4

17.8

12.6

Lows

3.5

4.1

6.7

11.2

15.6

19.9

24.3

25.0

21.3

15.4

10.2

5.6

jStyle issue 18 │ 97

Workingholiday
Connection

All eyes on this café in Harajuku– the birthplace of “kawaii culture”
Photography: Kazuya Baba

Omotesando in Shibuya is one of the most wellrenowned shopping streets in all of Japan, famousfor being the home of Omotesando Hills – a large
shopping complex filled with a plethora of brands
from all over the world, including the Australianbrands “Ugg” and “Helen Kaminski”. While itis also known for its up-and-coming boutiquestores, notable salons as well as its appeal frompeople of high society to trend-conscious youthof today, it also crosses through Harajuku – thebirthplace of kawaii (cute) culture. Harajuku
is where the trendy café, “Workingholiday
Connection”, who borrows its name from a
popular way holidaymakers make their way tothe shores of Australia, has set up base.
COFFEE BEANS ROASTED BY THE “BESTBARISTA” IN AUSTRALIAThe first thing which must be ordered at thiscafé is the coffee. The coffee beans procured tobrew this coffee are roasted by Japanese barista,
Shoji Sasa, who was awarded as the Best
Barista in the 2012 Sydney Morning Herald
Good Café Guide Awards and later went on to
become a Barista Association judge. The coffee
beans are hand-picked from different countries
depending on the season and the strict brewing
98 │ jStyle issue 18

methods adhered to at the café to maximise
both the flavour and characteristic notes of thecoffee, making for a truly Australian cup ofcoffee. Drop by this café if you’re hankering fora little taste of home in Japan.
DELIGHTFUL PANCAKES MADE BY A
BILLS OLDBOY

The signature menu item at Workingholiday
Connection is the pancakes. The“ORIGINAL MANLY PANCAKE” is a
fluffy, creamy creation made using ricotta
cheese imported from Australia. The Japanesechef who came up with this tasty treat upon
returning home was trained in Japanese-stylecuisine in Japan before jetting off to Australia
on a working holiday and becoming the headchef at the famous pancake café – Bills, in
Sydney. Free-range eggs are generously mixed
into these pancakes to add a hint of egginessakin to French toast. The berry bombastic“VERY VERY BERRY PANCAKES” are also
a popular choice amongst restaurant-goers.
A PLACE TO CONNECT WITH THE WORLDAs the name of the café suggests, it is run by
the Japanese Association for Working Holiday

Makers and all members of staff have working
holiday experience. Staff members are either
Japanese people who have returned fromoverseas experiences in Australia and othervarious countries, or foreigners who have cometo Japan on a working holiday.
There are virtually no language barriers at thecafé thanks to this diverse makeup of staff. The
café itself aims to help people realise how goingoverseas to study abroad or go a working holiday
can help to broaden one’s horizons, which is
the main purpose for employing youthful staff
members with experience from all over the
globe. It’s a great place for people to gather firsthand insights about working holidays.
For people out there looking for one of thebest trendy café experiences in the country,
drop by Workingholiday Connection the nexttime you’re in Tokyo.
INFORMATION
Workingholiday Connection
Harajuku/Omotesando,
Level 2 YM Square
4-31-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Tel: 03-6434-0359
Sun – Thurs: 11am – 8pm (last orders at 7pm)
Fri –Sat: 11am – 9pm (last orders at 8pm)

Boutique
Shop 63, Lower Ground Floor, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 TEL: (+61) 2 9805 4747
Shop T1, Centrepoint, 264-274 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 TEL: (+61) 3 9644 5510