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The National
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Arigato from Japan: Emirati guides win fans at Expo 2025 Osaka
Under tall columns that replicate palm trees, beaming Emirati guides invite millions of Japanese visitors to the popular UAE pavilion at the Expo 2025 Osaka. Emiratis who have mastered the Japanese language strike up long conversations with Japanese residents in Osaka that go well beyond warm greetings of konnichiwa (hello), yokoso (welcome) and arigato (thank you). The UAE pavilion at the world's fair has welcomed more than two million visitors since it opened in the Japanese port city in April. A small team of Emiratis are the driving energy behind the pavilion and represent the country as youth ambassadors through the six-month global event that ends in October. Meznah Al Ansaari, 24, said immersing herself in Japanese culture connects her with the country. She learnt the language in 2019 when she spent more than a year in Tokyo and went on to study for a bachelor's degree in international relations. 'Japanese is one of the most difficult languages in the world but very fun to learn which eases the process,' said the Emirati who graduated from Tokyo's Waseda university a few weeks before the Expo opened in Japan. 'The reason I chose Japanese is because, growing up like many Middle Eastern child, I watched a famous Japanese animation called Spacetoon. For people who want to speak on a more advanced level, I suggest a technique called immersion which is basically immersing yourself in the language through listening. One of the ways I did that was by re-watching the Spacetoon anime in Japanese.' She enjoys bringing the UAE pavilion to life by talking to visitors from all across Japan about traditional architecture, food and culture. 'This pavilion is a multisensory experience. When you enter, you see towering pillars, you also smell a pleasing scent bakhoor and smell the palm trees. You can touch sand and taste Emirati food in the restaurant. I tell people welcome, we are waiting for you.' Japanese fans The guides wear the traditional Emirati kandura or abaya and are a crowd favourite with many Japanese families asking them to be part of group photographs. Visitors are often surprised to hear Emirati guides speak fluent Japanese. They ask detailed questions about hand-carved incense burners, listen intently and ask for more information about exhibits from a black and white traditional loom to the UAE's space programme. 'I like their enthusiastic energy and confidence in speaking Japanese,' said Hayase Okuhira, an accountant from Kyoto. 'We took lots of photos with them and we do want to visit UAE now.' 'It's really cool that they are so young and speak Japanese so well,' Eri Sachi, a Tokyo mother of three. 'My children asked so many questions and they learnt a lot because the guides could explain in Japanese with so much description.' Emirati Alia Aleissaee, 29, enjoys expanding people's knowledge about the Emirates. 'When we mention the UAE, some people have an image that it's all desert, but actually we also have oases like we show in the pavilion. The theme is 'From earth to ether' and that represents how we aim for the sky while we are rooted in our culture and traditions,' said the sales engineer who works in a Japanese company in the UAE. She taught herself Japanese in the UAE and is upgrading her skills at the Expo. 'I never had the opportunity to talk with native Japanese speakers before I came to Osaka. I always wanted to live in Japan so this is a learning experience and I'm excited,' Ms Aleissaee said. 'Every day at the Expo I meet new people, learn new stories, share our culture and tradition.' Ties with Japan Many Emirati guides have deep educational ties with Japan having studied in the country. Ahmed Al Darei completed his bachelor and master's degrees at the Tokyo University of Technology. 'When I was young, I got really interested in Japanese culture, especially things connected to manga, ninja, samurai. I knew when I finished high school, I would go to Japan to study. This was my dream and I made it came true – now I'm speaking Japanese to the Japanese,' said Mr Al Darei, on a sabbatical from work at the UAE Space Agency. The question he gets asked most is about the 90 columns that replicate towering date palm trees spread across the glass-encased UAE pavilion. 'They ask, 'what is this made out of?' I tell them in Japanese how these beautiful columns are made out of date palm tree waste. I'm really lucky to be able to speak in Japanese and introduce our people, beautiful country and the amazing projects to visitors.' His advice to is for people to learn a few words of the language when visiting Japan. 'Even if you speak a little Japanese, the people are very warm and will open up to you. Start with greetings like – hello or konnechiwa and the magical thank you which is arigato. 'Learn to say your name or ask how much is this? Once the Japanese people see you are doing your best, they are happy and you will have a good time.'
CNA
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
Love subtle and delicate scents? Discover 7 Japanese perfume brands to try now
It's no secret that Japan is a land of numerous cultural sensitivities – which include perfumes. While using them is not an absolute no-no, wearing a strong, overpowering scent is considered intrusive and rude, since it can be offensive to others while you're in a public space. Japan is known to have one of the smallest fragrance markets in the world. But while scents may not be as popular with the Japanese compared to folks from other countries, they do appreciate perfumes – albeit in subtle, delicate forms that allow them to express their personality quietly and politely, without intruding on other's personal (olfactory) space. This is why Japanese scents are generally known to be light, elegant and on the simpler side of perfumes – they also tend to reflect the nation's penchant for understated minimalism. If this sounds exactly like the type of perfume that you love, here are some fragrance brands that you need to put on your shopping list and experience personally when you next visit the country. 1. J-SCENT View this post on Instagram A post shared by J-Scent Global (@jscent_fragrance) This perfume brand draws inspiration from Japanese culture, traditions and nature – evident in its line-up that includes scents with names like Roasted Green Tea, Yuzu and Hydrangea. Besides fragrances that are based on familiar notes, J-Scent also carries several conceptual scents that will no doubt capture one's imagination by their names. Ramune, which refers to the traditional Japanese soda pop with a bottle that's sealed with a marble stopper, is a playful scent that projects the olfactory image of the beverage with fresh notes of lemon, mint and bergamot. Sumo Wrestler is one for those with a taste for the unusual – it evokes the 'dignified scent of a sumo wrestler that's passing by', by reimagining the scent of bintsuke oil (which wrestlers use on their hair) with powdery and floral tones. 2. SHIRO View this post on Instagram A post shared by SHIRO (@shiro_japan) Not just a maker of fragrances, this Hokkaido brand is well known for its cosmetics and skincare line that are made from natural ingredients including kelp, sake lees, rice bran and yuzu its key features. What's interesting about its fragrances is that they are divided into two separate ranges that can be layered together to create a unique, personalised scent. The Fragrance line comprises the Savon, White Lily, White Tea, Earl Grey and Kinmokusei (osmanthus) scents, while the Perfume collection features more abstract creations made by perfumers from around the world. With names like Smoke Leather, Take It Easy and Spice of Life, the fragrances from the latter are based on each perfumer's personal memories and experiences. Shiro says that it uses uses distilled yuzu and Japanese mugwort water in place of water for the Perfume collection – apparently, doing so adds richness to the ingredients and depth to the fragrance. Available at Shiro. 3. PARFUM SATORI View this post on Instagram A post shared by パルファンサトリ (@parfumsatori_official) You'll find a refined line of fragrances here, presenting the Japanese ideal of elegant yet unique perfumes. Parfum Satori's fragrances are light, airy, and blend gently into the skin – they are born from a deep respect for the Japanese aesthetic of 'harmony'. According to the brand, its scents subtly merge with the wearer and their surroundings – creating a beautiful sense of balance, instead of dominating the senses. The perfumer behind them, Satori Osawa, aims to share this uniquely Japanese approach to fragrance with the world. The signature of the brand is the namesake fragrance Satori, a classy woody oriental that 'paints' the image of a dignified woman. It features notes including bergamot, coriander, cinnamon, cacao, vanilla and sandalwood – these have been chosen to also express the five tastes of spicy, bitter, sweet, sour and salty, which, together, encapsulate a Zen sense of Japanese beauty. 4. SHOLAYERED Here's another Japanese perfume brand with scents that are made to be layered so that users can experiment and find their own unique scent. Sholayered refers to its fragrances as body sprays, since they are designed to be light, refreshing and 'easy to use', which makes them ideal for those who do not like strong perfumes. Its scents are kept simple, featuring familiar and distinctive notes, and are named quite literally in reflection of them. This makes them easier to mix and match – take your pick from Orange Blossom, Lemon Peel, White Musk, Soapy Rose and Sugar Lychee, among others, and find a concoction to suit your personality or mood of the day. Available at Sholayered. 5. MIYA SHINMA View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miya Shinma (@miyashinma) If you're looking for something truly exquisite, you'll appreciate what this niche luxury Paris-based fragrance brand has to offer. The scents are by Paris-based Japanese perfumer, Miya Shinma, who studied perfumery in France and then set out to her own brand of fragrances that are inspired by Japanese culture and the beauty of nature. You'll sense the connection to her homeland most in her Kimono line of scents – particularly in Kimono Kaze, which is inspired by the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and features notes of green tea, yuzu and pine needle among others. Prefer a floral fragrance? Kimono Sakura evokes spring in Kyoto with rose, iris and jasmine, instead of the actual scent of sakura blooms – which, apparently, do not have much of a distinct fragrance. 6. KITOWA View this post on Instagram A post shared by KITOWA (@kitowafragrance) Wood-based scents are what Kitowa focuses on, since the brand is founded on the idea of creating perfumes that represent the unique connection between the Japanese and the trees native to their country. This resulted in the creation of three signature eau de parfums – Hinoki (Japanese cypress), Hiba (white cedar) and Kusunoki (Camphor tree), which blend distinctive woody notes with citrus and floral notes that are specially selected to add depth and elevate the fragrances. Kitowa also has a range of alcohol-free perfumes that are skin-friendly – the Eau Eclosion line is largely wood-based, too, and is ideal for those with skin allergies. Alcohol-free perfumes are known to last longer, since they contain a higher concentration of fragrance oils. On the other hand, the absence of alcohol means that they have low projection – they wear close to the skin and are unlikely to be overpowering, which is exactly what most Japanese would prefer their perfume to be. 7. AHRES View this post on Instagram A post shared by AHRES official (アーレス) (@ahres_official) A relatively new name in the Japanese beauty scene, Ahres is a hip and modern brand with a skincare and makeup line, and an extensive range of fragrances. Its tagline of 'function and entertainment' describes the brand ethos, which is seen in how it presents its line of Sound Skin Perfumes. On its website, each of the scents from the range is paired with a short tune, which is intended to create a multisensory experience for the user – in the brand's words, to help one 'listen' to the scent and imagine the scene it projects. Even if you're not one for abstract concepts such as this, you'd surely be able to appreciate the fresh scent of Ahres' chic fragrances, which, in true Japanese fashion, are formulated to be light, airy and to meld well with the skin.
Malay Mail
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
J-pop, ‘Enka' and a whole lot of laughs: What's on at Japan Malaysia Expo 2025 in KL
KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 — The Japan Malaysia Expo 2025 (JEMY 2025) has opened its doors for a three-day celebration of Japanese culture at Hall 1 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), with its Entertainment Zone drawing crowds eager for a taste of J-pop, Enka and comedy — straight from Japan. Here's a look at three standout Japanese acts bringing their talents to Malaysian fans: J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba, Enka singer Leon Niihama, and physical comedy trio Wannabes. J-pop star Manaka Inaba has been performing solo since 2022. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Manaka Inaba on Malaysian food and flying solo If you think Malaysia has great food, you've got something in common with J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba — who's not only performing at JEMY 2025 but also on a personal mission to sample as much local food as possible. The 27-year-old managed to get her first taste of satay on her first night in Malaysia and was surprised by its sweet and savoury flavour. She's also excited to try durian, pineapple and watermelon during her stay. Despite being in the Japanese entertainment industry for over 10 years, this is her first time in Malaysia — and she was touched by the warm welcome from fans who came out in droves for the JEMY 2025 launch. 'First of all, Japan to Malaysia is not a short distance, and to be able to see some fans who flew over just to catch me here is truly heartwarming,' said Manaka, adding that she even met fans who had travelled all the way from Japan. A former idol under Hello! Project, Manaka was previously part of Country Girls and Juice=Juice before officially 'graduating' in 2022 to pursue a solo career — a move she admits comes with fresh challenges. 'As a group, we had other members, so you'd only need to sing your part. But now that I'm on my own, every single part is mine, and I have to decide how I want to deliver each line,' she said. Her setlist for JEMY 2025 includes a mix of solo hits such as Pink Temperature and Attoeteki Love, as well as nostalgic favourites from her Hello! Project days. Enka singer Leon Niihama also performed the ending theme for the popular anime 'Detective Conan'. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Leon Niihama: Second visit, first performance For Enka and pop singer Leon Niihama, this trip marks his return to Malaysia — but his first time performing here. Best known for singing the Fun! Fun! Fun! ending theme from the Detective Conan anime series, Leon is now in his seventh year as an Enka singer. According to Masterclass, Enka is a traditional Japanese music style built around pentatonic scales and a melismatic vocal technique called kobushi. It often takes the form of sentimental ballads with roots in ryūkōka, a genre popular in 19th- and early 20th-century Japan. Leon said his love for Enka started with his father, who was also an Enka singer. 'I've loved Enka and pop songs since I was a child, and I've always felt that it's my duty to share their greatness with all generations and the rest of the world,' he said. The 29-year-old recalled his last visit to Malaysia during a high school trip. 'Malaysia is truly a country of many memories for me,' he said. 'I was in a hotel when a malfunctioning alarm went off, and my friends and I rushed out into the hallway, accidentally locking ourselves out. With our shaved heads, wearing T-shirts and shorts, we had a really tough time at the front desk,' he added with a laugh. He's also hoping to relive one of his favourite local eats: Nasi lemak. Wannabes is made up of Gon (centre), Chiro (left), and Guri (right). — Picture by Firdaus Latif Wannabes: The comedy trio that's going global Formed two decades ago as a duo, the comedy group Wannabes — originally known as Bicsmalln — now consists of three members: Gon, Chiro and Guri, who joined in 2019. Specialising in 'physical comedy', the trio are known for transforming themselves into objects using a blend of acrobatics, choreography and slapstick. They say they're currently the only performers in Japan focused on this style. The group recently saw their international profile skyrocket after appearing on Britain's Got Talent, leading to invites from Italy, the Philippines, the US and Spain. Their rebrand from Bicsmalln to Wannabes, said Gon, was to make their name easier to pronounce and remember. Wannabes are a regular live act at Tokyo Tower, but since the Covid-19 pandemic, they've also focused on YouTube, where their channel now boasts over three million subscribers. As for their performance at JEMY 2025? Dressed in their signature striped outfits, the trio simply said, 'We just want to make sure everyone has fun.' JEMY 2025 is on now at KLCC from July 18 to 21. Entry to the Exhibition Zone is free, but tickets for the Entertainment Zone cost between RM25 and RM40. For more info, visit:
Malay Mail
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
J-pop, ‘Enka' and a whole lot of laughs: What's on at JEMY 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 — The Japan Malaysia Expo 2025 (JEMY 2025) has opened its doors for a three-day celebration of Japanese culture at Hall 1 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), with its Entertainment Zone drawing crowds eager for a taste of J-pop, Enka and comedy — straight from Japan. Here's a look at three standout Japanese acts bringing their talents to Malaysian fans: J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba, Enka singer Leon Niihama, and physical comedy trio Wannabes. J-pop star Manaka Inaba has been performing solo since 2022. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Manaka Inaba on Malaysian food and flying solo If you think Malaysia has great food, you've got something in common with J-pop soloist Manaka Inaba — who's not only performing at JEMY 2025 but also on a personal mission to sample as much local food as possible. The 27-year-old managed to get her first taste of satay on her first night in Malaysia and was surprised by its sweet and savoury flavour. She's also excited to try durian, pineapple and watermelon during her stay. Despite being in the Japanese entertainment industry for over 10 years, this is her first time in Malaysia — and she was touched by the warm welcome from fans who came out in droves for the JEMY 2025 launch. 'First of all, Japan to Malaysia is not a short distance, and to be able to see some fans who flew over just to catch me here is truly heartwarming,' said Manaka, adding that she even met fans who had travelled all the way from Japan. A former idol under Hello! Project, Manaka was previously part of Country Girls and Juice=Juice before officially 'graduating' in 2022 to pursue a solo career — a move she admits comes with fresh challenges. 'As a group, we had other members, so you'd only need to sing your part. But now that I'm on my own, every single part is mine, and I have to decide how I want to deliver each line,' she said. Her setlist for JEMY 2025 includes a mix of solo hits such as Pink Temperature and Attoeteki Love, as well as nostalgic favourites from her Hello! Project days. Enka singer Leon Niihama also performed the ending theme for the popular anime 'Detective Conan'. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Leon Niihama: Second visit, first performance For Enka and pop singer Leon Niihama, this trip marks his return to Malaysia — but his first time performing here. Best known for singing the Fun! Fun! Fun! ending theme from the Detective Conan anime series, Leon is now in his seventh year as an Enka singer. According to Masterclass, Enka is a traditional Japanese music style built around pentatonic scales and a melismatic vocal technique called kobushi. It often takes the form of sentimental ballads with roots in ryūkōka, a genre popular in 19th- and early 20th-century Japan. Leon said his love for Enka started with his father, who was also an Enka singer. 'I've loved Enka and pop songs since I was a child, and I've always felt that it's my duty to share their greatness with all generations and the rest of the world,' he said. The 29-year-old recalled his last visit to Malaysia during a high school trip. 'Malaysia is truly a country of many memories for me,' he said. 'I was in a hotel when a malfunctioning alarm went off, and my friends and I rushed out into the hallway, accidentally locking ourselves out. With our shaved heads, wearing T-shirts and shorts, we had a really tough time at the front desk,' he added with a laugh. He's also hoping to relive one of his favourite local eats: Nasi lemak. Wannabes is made up of Gon (centre), Chiro (left), and Guri (right). — Picture by Firdaus Latif Wannabes: The comedy trio that's going global Formed two decades ago as a duo, the comedy group Wannabes — originally known as Bicsmalln — now consists of three members: Gon, Chiro and Guri, who joined in 2019. Specialising in 'physical comedy', the trio are known for transforming themselves into objects using a blend of acrobatics, choreography and slapstick. They say they're currently the only performers in Japan focused on this style. The group recently saw their international profile skyrocket after appearing on Britain's Got Talent, leading to invites from Italy, the Philippines, the US and Spain. Their rebrand from Bicsmalln to Wannabes, said Gon, was to make their name easier to pronounce and remember. Wannabes are a regular live act at Tokyo Tower, but since the Covid-19 pandemic, they've also focused on YouTube, where their channel now boasts over three million subscribers. As for their performance at JEMY 2025? Dressed in their signature striped outfits, the trio simply said, 'We just want to make sure everyone has fun.' JEMY 2025 is on now at KLCC from July 18 to 21. Entry to the Exhibition Zone is free, but tickets for the Entertainment Zone cost between RM25 and RM40. For more info, visit:
CTV News
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Anime fans attend Ai-Kon
Winnipeg Watch Fans of anime, video games and Japanese culture came together this weekend at Ai-Kon, the province's largest anime convention.
