Japanese Obon Festival (Matsuri)

Posted on July 1, 2012 by Steve

Usually called Obon, but also known as O-Bon or simply Bon, the Japanese Obon Festival is the one of the most well known Buddhist festivals. The celebration is meant to honor the departed spirits of one’s ancestors. Some call Obon the “Feast of Lanterns”, due to the lighting of candles and lanterns that is part of the ceremony. There is also a special dance, called the Bon-Odori, which is performed specifically for this ceremony. Most Japanese people celebrate the festival by caring for the graves of family members.

Obon is observed each year on July 13th, which is when Buddhist theology says that the souls of the departed rejoin their families for three days. The celebration has important religious components, including prayers that are offered to help the departed find their way in the afterlife. Celebrants recognize the sacrifices of both their living family and their ancestors through prayers and celebrations. Some people compare Obon with the Mexican celebration of the “Day of the Dead”. To learn more about this festival and others in Japan, I recommend getting the Lonely Planet Japan Travel Guide.

The history of Obon is hard to track, but it is widely recognized as having been practiced since at least the 7th century AD. While many parts of the festival have changed in name and practice, there are also many parts of the celebration that are practiced according to ancient tradition. For example, families will clean their homes during the festival and create a plate of special foods (often fruits and vegetables) which are placed on the Buddhist family alter known as a butsudan. The alter is also decorated with flowers and beautiful paper lanterns called couchin along with other offerings. Many families also participate in family reunions during Obon, and young people often return from bigger cities to their small home towns to spend time with their families, care for the graves of ancestors, and leave offerings for family members who have passed on.

The Bon-Odori dance that is performed as part of the festival comes from a story about a disciple of Buddha called Mokuren. Mokuren used his special powers to look into the afterlife to check on his mother who was suffering after she had fallen into the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. Mokuren went to Buddha and asked how he could end his mother’s suffering, and Buddha told him to make offerings to the Buddhist monks who had returned from their retreat on the 15th day of the seventh month of the year. After Mokuren had made these offerings, his mother was released from her suffering and was so happy that she danced with joy, thankful that her son understood the love that she had given him in the past. The Bon-Odori dance gets it name from this dance, and the dance is performed during the Obon festival to show appreciation and love that is felt for one’s ancestors. The exact dance varies from area to area, reflecting the history of that specific area and dancers will use different fans or wooden clappers to create rhythms for the dance.

Floating paper lanterns called Toro Nagashi are another important part of Obon. On July 15th, people gather by the riverside and release a small, floating paper lantern that represents a departed ancestor into the water. As the individual lanterns join together in the water, they create a beautiful sight as they travel together toward the sea. Obon is a festival that celebrates the importance of family, home, and tradition, and many Japanese people see it as a time to renew these connections.

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Cosplay: Living the Fantasy

Posted on June 25, 2012 by Steve

Known as the “Land of the Rising Sun” Japan is an extremely colorful country and a beautiful place to visit. When you think of Japan things that pop up in your mind are ancient temples, Fast Bullet Trains, females wearing kimono Right? You are absolutely right Japan, has it all. But if you love alternative lifestyle and experiencing progressive cultural life, watch out for cosplay while exploring Japan’s big cities. It’s a lifestyle based on nothing but pure fantasy.

Cosplay is a short form for Costume Play, where people don costumes of their favorite comic character or superhero. Some buy costumes of their favorite anime character some even make up their own costume. Either way most are hand crafted, much time is given to detailing of the costumes and the look that people want to don. Cosplayers even wear wigs to further perk up their resemblance to the character they are portraying, especially for anime and manga characters. In order to look closer to the character they are playing most Cosplayers also engage in body modifications like contact lenses, temporary tattoos, body painting, hair coloring and many other modifications that can make them look closer to their character.

Revolutionary Girl Utena Cosplay

Many people who Cosplay can be found in conventions such as Animazment, Comiket, Otakan, and many others. Many conventions have costume contest and Cosplay chess. Cosplaying is generally done for three purposes first to express admiration for the character; second category is of people who enjoy the attention they get during Cosplaying and third group is of people who enjoy the creative course of Cosplaying. Cosplaying is also done for social service in some parts of Japan, the natives collect the amount they get from Cosplaying and donate it to organizations like Red Cross.

The Harajuku District in Tokyo has a street called Takeshite Dori and known for its designer shops and fashion nowhere found in this world. There are boutiques that specialize in Cosplay accessories such as wigs, incase if you too want to dress up like your favorite character. The world’s largest and most famous comic convention, Comiket which is a short form to Comic Market, is held in the Odaiba Area of Tokyo, Japan bi-annually.

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Japan a tax haven? Think again!

Posted on June 23, 2012 by Steve

At first glance, Japan seems like it would be a good place to hide money because of the cultural differences and language barrier, but that’s not the case.

An agreement has been made between the U.S. Treasury Department and the countries of Japan and Switzerland to help banks in those countries comply with upcoming U.S. tax regulations and to track down American tax evaders hiding money abroad.

Under the agreements, the foreign financial institutions or banks in those countries would deal directly with the U.S. government to provide the American accountholders’ information, such as reporting to them the identities, account balances, and other information on U.S. accounts in 2014 and 2015.

When I hear about things like this it shows me more and more how America seems to care more about money than people. It’s too bad the country doesn’t focus on foreign custody cases when it comes to marriage and child custody and work with Japan regarding child abduction before it looks for stashed cash.

iPhone is Japan’s Most Popular Smartphone

Posted on June 21, 2012 by Steve

According to research firm Data Vendor MM Research Institute, throughout the year of 2011, the Apple’s iPhone has been the top selling smartphone in Japan having a sales figure of 7.25 million units and this makes Apple the single biggest smartphone seller in Japan, driving its sales far ahead from its main rival Samsung.

From the research, 30% of the 24.2 million smartphones shipped in the country were iPhone while Samsung accounted for only 8.3%. This data makes it clear that the Apple is the leader in this cell phone category.

Softbank iPhone on Display by Women in Traditional Japanese Clothing

iPhone fashion accessories on display at Softbank event

Who are the big players? The smartphone market in Japan is dominated by Apple and Samsung. These two companies have traded the lead as they release new models. In terms of sales figures the iPhone led the market but in terms of platform Android is still in the lead. The Android OS phones have taken 69 percent of the entire market but still no one vendor could overtake Apple.

Apple’s sales were boosted by the launch of its iPhone 4S late last year having 26.6 percent market share in Japan and have picked up even more after the release of iOS 5.1 update because it brought Japanese language support to Siri. Siri is the popular personal assistant and knowledge navigator application that is proprietary to Apple. Also this is the first time where an Apple phone has been carried by the two operators in Japan, au/KDDI and SoftBank.

The mobile phone subscribers by carrier in Japan

Source:Telecommunications Carriers Association Data Processed by SR Inc.

Smartphones made up 57% of total mobile shipments during the fiscal year according to the data showed by MM, bringing Apple to be the 2nd in the entire Japanese handset market, behind Fujitsu. Another set of data showed that Apple is considered to be the top consumer brands in the country for beating out 999 other brands to the top position.

Rumor has it that Apple will use low-temperature poly-silicon (LTPS) touch-screens with a resolution of 326 pixels-per-inch and the companies Sharp and Japan Display could be the main suppliers.

On a side note as an iPhone user, I’m excited about the new 0.25mm soft waterproof case (¥3,000). The case carries an IPX-8 Waterproof Standard. IPX-8 is the highest rating for a waterproof product based on the IEC 529 Specifications. Check out the video!

Tokyo Gas Attack Fugitive Arrested by Japanese Authorities

Posted on June 16, 2012 by Steve

The Japanese authorities have arrested the last fugitive suspected in a deadly nerve gas attack on Tokyo subways that happened in 1995. He was caught at a comic book café in downtown Tokyo after a staff of the café recognized him and alerted the police. The fugitive is Katsuya Takahashi, 54 year old and a former member of a cult Aum Shinrikyo. He has also been the bodyguard of the cult guru Shoko Asahara. Katsuya Takahashi Sarin Gas Suspect Takahashi was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder in relation to the attack. Sarin gas was released by the members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult during the morning rush-hour in March 1995 that sickened over 5,500 commuters and led to the deaths of 13 people. After the gas attack, thousands of police have been on the lookout for the suspects and over 200 members of the doomsday cult were convicted, and last week they have apprehended the last member of the cult. Thirteen of the cult’s members are on death row including Asahara. They claim to be a liberal religious group but preached that the world is coming to an end and it must arm itself to prepare for different calamities. They have split into two groups and each renamed with Circle of Rainbow Light and the Aleph. The current leaders of the cult have publicly rejected Asahara but they are still under police surveillance.

Tokyo Most Expensive City to Live

Posted on June 12, 2012 by Steve

With an average monthly rent of $4,847 Tokyo is once again the most expensive city for Expats! Though the economy of Japan remains sunk deep in deflation, Tokyo continues to hold the #1 position as the most expensive city in world for expatriates to live in.

The cause of this can partly to blame on the relative strength of Japanese currency against the U.S. dollar and price movements of products like housing over the last 12 months, using New York as a benchmark. When I moved to Japan back in 2007 I started off at 120 Yen per 1 USD. That’s a 20% increase on my U.S. income! These day’s it’s a struggle to see 1 USD match 80 Yen. If you calculate the beginning of my move until now, I’ve lost 40% of my U.S. based income spending power when I convert it to Yen, but if you look at it in a positive light, it’s really only a 20% drop of income.

Japan has been an expensive place to live for a long period of time and this year is the 12th year that Tokyo was ranked as one of the most expensive cities since 1994. Though it hasn’t been number one, it has been ranked among the top three every year except for 2007, when it slipped to fourth.

A night shot of the glorious city of Tokyo

Costs for even smaller items in the city can pinch your wallet. To give you an idea just how expensive things are in Tokyo, a cost of one cup of coffee in Tokyo is equivalent to two cups of coffee in New York so it runs you about $8.29, a daily newspaper will cost you $6, and a liter of milk can cost you $3. Even for watching movie, the city is considered the most expensive place with an average admission of $22.97 which is $3 more expensive than in Sydney, the next most expensive city to watch a film.

As a whole, the deciding factor in the regional rankings is the currencies. While Europe lost ground, Asia is dominating. Hong Kong and Singapore kept their places among top 10, while Australian countries have made a big jumped where Sydney moved up to 11th having 14th last year, Melbourne at 15th from 21st last year, Perth at 19th from 30th last year, and Brisbane at 24th from being 31st last year.

In the end it all boils down to where you want to live. Japan can be expensive depending on where you live, but finding really good deals and a change in lifestyle helps offset the cost.

Hooters Restaurant in Tokyo Japan

Posted on June 5, 2012 by Steve

The Hooters Restaurant has been opened in Akasaka Tokyo for a while now and it seems successful. If you’re in the area and you’re craving hot wings that remind you of the western style restaurant, then this is a good place to check out. They are also opening up a 2nd location in Ginza later in June.

The cute waitresses are a mix of Japanese and Non-Japanese women. Since it’s in a popular area the staff speaks both Japanese and English (and I heard they are paid well). One thing that makes Hooters Japan different than the restaurant chain in America is that you don’t tip. When it first opened the service was a bit slow due to people lining up outside, but now they’ve maximized staff utilization and things are moving at a steady pace. You can even make a reservation!

Set menus are available just like almost every restaurant in Japan and they often run campaigns. The prices are a bit expensive, but so are the prices at the Hard Rock Café and that didn’t stop me from ordering tons of food. If you’re not in the area or not a fan of the atmosphere but like the hot wings, you can always buy import their sauce from the U.S. and try to make your own at home.

Hooters Tokyo

Hooters Tokyo Address: Akasaka Tokyu Plaza 2F, 2-14-3 Nagata-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014

Open: on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun from 11AM to 11PM (Last Order at 10:30PM) and then Friday from 11AM to 4AM (Last Order at 3:30AM).

It’s easy to get there! Here’s a map and here are some tips:
Ginza Line / Marunouchi Line Sotobori-Dori Exit 1min WALK
Hanzomon Line No.8 Exit Direct
Nanboku Line No.9 Exit 3 min WALK
Yuraku cho Line No.6 exit 4 min WALK

The official Hooters Japan website in Japanese and English: www.hooters.co.jp

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Hungry? Why not have some Japanese Fake Food!

Posted on May 23, 2012 by Steve

A sight that many people see upon their first encounter with Japan is the various fake food and drink menu samples such as the one seen in the picture above that are normally displayed outside of the restaurants in showroom cases.

Japanese Food Plastic Models Showcase

The samples are a big help for not only foreigners but Japanese alike when determining where to stop by to satisfy one’s appetite or quench one’s thirst.

With scalable models just as appetizing as the real thing, the plastic food/drink samples are truly works of art. In addition, they are a great way to judge whether the restaurant/bar is worthy of your hard earned cash as color faded samples or ones covered in dust are a good indication of the atmosphere and level of service on the inside.

As for where the fake food industry got its start, there is no need to look any further than Osaka – the food capital of Japan. Born exactly 80 years ago in 1932, the artificial food making industry in Japan has since exploded into what is today a $100 million industry.

If you are residing or planning to visit Japan and are looking for an experience like none other, some of the fake food manufacturers even offer fake food-making workshops on the weekends where you can learn how to make your own fake food items.

For those of you not ready to create your own menu item or not planning to visit Japan, have no fear because you can still own a piece of this interesting Japanese culture by accessing the Fake Food Japan store to view the greatest online collection of fake food merchandise available.

Here’s a sneak peak of what is available online for your viewing pleasure (left to right: iPhone case, keychain, and life-size replica).

Japanese iPhone Case Keychain and Life Size Replica

So if you are a fan of Japan and in the market for something out of the ordinary, Japanese fake food may just hold the answer for you.

5 Japanese Traditions Worth Experiencing

Posted on May 14, 2012 by Steve

Every country has a unique culture, customs and traditions. Like other countries, Japan is well-known for its traditions and customs. Visiting Japan can be a lot of fun if you are familiar with the customs and traditions followed there. The Japanese have unique etiquettes for all walks of life. They are harmonious people who wish to follow their norms strictly and expect visitors to do so as well. Japanese traditions have been practiced since a long time and thus, have a great influence over the Japanese lifestyle.

In this article, we will look at 5 Japanese traditions worth experiencing. Read on below:

1. Meeting New People
Bowing is one the most traditional etiquettes Japanese people follow. You will see a lot of people bowing each other for various reasons all through the day. Bowing is a way of expressing happiness upon greeting, paying respect and apologizing in any situation. The Japanese train their children to bow in the perfect manner since childhood, whereas a foreigner can simply bow a little to conform to the tradition.

2. Dining Traditions
As a foreigner, you will see a number of traditions in Japan. Before eating, people are given moist towels to clean their hands only; however, these should not be used to wipe the face. People are accustomed to saying ?itadakimasu? before they begin their meals as an expression of appreciation. Surprisingly, it is also considered perfectly okay to slurp your noodles as it is a sign that you are enjoying your meal. Also, tipping at restaurants is not favorable and must not be done.

Dining at a Restaurant in Japan

3. Bathing in an Onsen
Onsens are traditional hot springs that you can see all across Japan even in rural villages. The hot water comes from deep sources and is believed to contain many minerals that relax, relieve and cure the body. You can enjoy the bath nude; however, if you do not wish to do so, you may be allowed to wear a bath suit. Also, if you are invited to someone?s house, you will be asked to take a bath before beginning your meal. Many homes have built-in onsens. You will have to wash off your body and hair in a shower first and then bathe in the onsen while ensuring that you do not spoil the water as everyone in the family takes a bath in the same water.

4. Tea Ceremony
The tea ceremony is also an interesting tradition of Japanese people. Tea is served in a ceremonial manner under the influence of Zen Buddhism. The tradition has taken the form of a hobby nowadays and the ceremony takes place in many public places as swell.

5. Visiting a Japanese House
When you visit a Japanese house, you will have to take off your shoes before entering as a tradition. And as an acceptance of gratitude, you will be provided slippers to enter the house. You can also bring your own slippers if you want to. If you have very large feet, you should keep a set of slippers for yourself. Moreover, you must also take a small gift for the host as a token of a harmonious relationship. The gift must not be an expensive as it can be embarrassing for the host. Also, never forget to take off your hat or coat before the host opens the door, and put them back only when you have left the house.

About the contributor: Andrew has been a long time Japanese culture lover and loves blogging about it. As a sushi maker and nigiri maker distributor, Andrew had the opportunity to discover and embrace the Japanese culture.

Dating Japanese Girls in Tokyo

Posted on May 1, 2012 by Steve

Some people have asked me how to start dating Japanese women, so I had a friend of mine write this quick guide to help you pick up Japanese girls while in Japan. If you’re looking to meet cute Japanese girls who are 18-23 years old and more your typical category of women (not looking for money, not looking to get married any time soon) then this is for you and should give you insight to date Japanese women. I recommend staying away from the usual gaijin places since most of the girls who go there are either pretty dirty or just looking for money, plus there are a lot of foreign “bad apples” who go there, so those are not the best places for picking up girls in Japan.

Before I get started, here are two sites you should consider book marking. One is about Japan dating in other areas and one is about Thai dating.

Some of the areas that will work best for you are listed in this quick guide. They are the same names as the train stations so they should be easy to find. Most you can access using the Yamanote train line. I recommend this book – Nanpa: A Beginner’s Guide to the Japanese Art of Girl-Hunting and How To Pick Up Japanese Girls (Japanese Dating Phrases) which is available only on the Amazon Kindle.

Marunouchi/Tokyo - Mostly young women working in business, cute and intelligent with class and many will know at least some English if not fluent.

Ebisu/Hiro - More international areas. There are sophisticated young women, more trendy and have their own money/business or are students. Many will speak fluent English.

Shimbashi/Hamamatsucho - A little more international with young women working in business. Intelligent and some will know a fair amount of English.

Shinagawa/Osaki - More business areas, fairly international and many will know some English.

Ginza - High class area with many women who are trendy, classy and sophisticated though a more snobbish crowd stays around this area.

Areas that are worth checking out (but not really for picking up girls) are Shibuya and Shinjuku. These areas will have a lot of girls who work for hostess clubs and they’re only looking to snag a lot of your money. The type you’re probably looking for doesn’t tend to stay in these areas. Though Shinjuku has a huge mix of different women, many are very young, less sophisticated or work in the adult entertainment business.

For the type of Japanese girl you would like to meet, you shouldn’t be too bold since many of the young women in Tokyo are very shy and embarrass easily. Start with simple conversation and try to use some Japanese if you know some. If you don’t, at least listen to Pimselur’s Japanese to get some exposure. Many young women, even the ones who understand English pretty well are still shy to use it in front of native English speakers, so some Japanese will certainly make them feel more relaxed.

Touch is a pretty big thing for many people in Japan (especially since there’s a lot of inappropriate touching in Tokyo trains) so flirty touches that work with more foreign women doesn’t work as well with Japanese. Be gentle and patient to ease into that sort of thing.

The majority of Japanese women are used to people trying to pick them up, so being obvious may immediately bring their guard up, so starting out friendly and asking for help or advice about something or the area will help chat them up. If you look too confident with yourself, many girls will immediately shy away, so if you can make yourself a little vulnerable, especially by making an effort to talk in Japanese, they’ll feel much more at ease.

The most important thing to do is really observe the girl’s actions and expressions. Japanese women are generally more uncomfortable in social situations without friends and the Japanese in general have subtle expressions and reactions to Western people, so if she’s uncomfortable, it may not be as obvious as with other women.

Another way you can date Japanese women is by meeting them from an Japanese online dating site first and going from there. Some women are more comfortable chatting on IM and e-mail but you also a handful that flake out when you’re ready to meet in person.

Good luck!