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The Mainichi
3 days ago
- General
- The Mainichi
Retro Japan: Elegant Kobe College architecture designed to influence students
NISHINOMIYA, Hyogo -- Standing in style, Kobe College buildings in this western Japan city were designed to inspire class among its students in the early Showa era (1926-1989), and they still retain their dignity. Passing through the reddish-tiled main gate and ascending a slope, one is greeted by the refined school buildings of Kobe College. The campus harmonizes with its natural surroundings and still retains 12 buildings designed by William Merrell Vories (1880-1964), who left behind many renowned architectural works. Under Vories' design philosophy, which posited that the grace of buildings positively influences students, the college was completed in 1933. Near the center of the campus is the cream-colored Administration Building, constructed in the Spanish Mission style. It is connected via interior corridors to the auditorium and chapel, forming a single structure with three functions. The auditorium features semicircular arch that separates the stage from the seating area, creating a space with a sense of grandeur. The chapel's windows use amber-colored glass, which bathes the interior in golden light. This seems to reflect Vories' architectural spirit aimed at distinguished architecture that nurtures a loving heart. The campus architecture is open to the public several times a year on an irregular basis. During these times, trained students act as "tour meisters" to explain the charm of the buildings. (Japanese original by Maiko Umeda, Osaka Photo and Video Department) * * * The Japanese version of this article was originally published on Feb. 5, 2023. * * * This series explores Japan's architectural wonders and secrets of yesteryear. Read more Retro Japan articles here.
Tokyo Weekender
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tokyo Weekender
Unmissable Fireworks Festivals in Japan for Summer 2025
As summer sweeps across Japan, the night skies come alive with dazzling displays of color and sound during the country's beloved fireworks festivals, known as hanabi taikai . From riverside shows in Tokyo to elaborate festivities in Tohoku, these events draw millions of spectators each year, offering an evening full of tradition, community spirit and breathtaking pyrotechnics. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned festival-goer, experiencing a hanabi festival is a must for anyone looking to soak in the magic of summer in Japan. Here are some of the most popular events happening this summer. Fireworks Festivals Happening This Summer Adachi Fireworks Festival 2025 Unlike previous years, the famous Adachi Fireworks Festival will be held in May this year for a more comfortable climate for spectators. 14,000 powerful fireworks are condensed into a one-hour display, and guests can enjoy a dynamic night sky with collaboration of fireworks and lasers. The closest fireworks display is on the Senju side, but it is highly recommended to watch from the Nishiarai side, where there is a wider riverbed. Date & Time May 31, 2025・19:20-20:20 Price Free Location Arakawa Nishiarai Bridge Green Space More Details The 44th Yokohama Open Port Festival This year marks the 44th Yokohama Port Opening Festival, a popular event for Yokohamaites to celebrate the opening of the port of Yokohama in 1859 and honor the history of their hometown. Approximately 2,500 fireworks will be shot off at Rinko Park in the grand finale of the three-day festival. The fireworks and drone shows will illuminate the night sky of the Minato Mirai area. Date & Time May 31-Jun 02・19:20~ Price Free Location Rinko Park More Details Tokyo Racecourse Fireworks 2025 The theme for 2025 is 'J-Pop Best,' and the fireworks will be set off to famous songs in keeping with the 100th anniversary of the Showa era. The fireworks will be synchronized with music on the vast horse racing track, which is approximately 2 kilometers long. All seats are reserved, so you can enjoy the fireworks in comfort without worrying about crowds, and facilities such as restrooms and food booths are available for people of all ages to enjoy the fireworks in comfort. The venue is only a short walk from the nearest station, making it easy to visit from within Tokyo. In order to bring out the world view of the music to the fullest, the fireworks display is carefully calculated in terms of color, shape, height, and even the afterglow when the fireworks fade away. The most notable feature is the dynamic fireworks display, which is shot off at a distance of only 100 meters from the bleachers. Date & Time Jul 2, 2025・19:30-20:40 Price ¥5,000 and up Location JRA Tokyo Racecourse More Details Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival 2025 With a 90-minute firework display over Asakusa, the Sumidagwa Fireworks Festival is one of the largest fireworks festival of Japan. The origin of this festival is 'Ryogoku no Kawabiraki,' which started in 1733, and it is the most prestigious fireworks festival in the Kanto area in terms of both tradition and prestige. The festival has dynamic performances by the fireworks makers, which combines the sophisticated skills of the pyrotechnicians with the emotional landscape of Edo's historic atmosphere. The fireworks competition at the first site is not to be missed, and you can enjoy different fireworks at each of the two sites, which gives you a different impression depending on where you watch the fireworks. Date & Time Jul 26, 2025・19:00-20:30 Price Free Location Taito Riverside Sports Center More Details Omagari Fireworks Festival 2025 Held in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture, the Omagari Fireworks Festival has been held since 1910, and runs as a competition of pyrotechnicians from all over Japan. The fireworks craftsmen are required to make their own fireworks and bring them to the competition, where judging will focus on design, color and creativity. The Prime Minister's Prize is also awarded in this prestigious can enjoy completely different fireworks displays in the daytime and at night. Especially, daytime fireworks are rare in Japan, and are a delicate competition in which beauty is competed not by light but by smoke. Date & Time Aug 30, 2025・17:10-21:30 Price Free Location Omono Riverside Ryokuchi Athletic Park More Details Nagaoka Fireworks Festival 2025 Held on August 2 and 3, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is a memorial service for those who died in the Nagaoka air raids, a display of gratitude to those who worked so hard for reconstruction and a wish for lasting peace. Bleacher seats are set up on both banks of the Shinano River so that the fireworks can be viewed from both directions. This is a rare fireworks display that takes advantage of the Shinano River by using a lot of the impressive shaku-dama, or 'large-sized balls' for the fireworks display of 'Sho-Sanshaku-Dama' with the width of 650 meters and 'Phoenix for reconstruction' with the width of 2 kilometers are highlights of the spectacle. Date & Time Aug 02-03・19:20-21:10 Price Free Location Shinanogawa Kasen Park More Details Tenjin Festival 2025 With over 1,000 years of history, the Tenjin Festival at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine in Osaka is one of the three major festivals in Japan. On the first day of the event, there are prayers for safety and prosperity at the shrine, and on the second day, the festivities really kick off with parades and fireworks. With a river procession of 100 boats and a fireworks display, the Tenjin Festival is a celebratory year, an original firework named 'Benibai', which opens in the shape of an ume (plum) bowl, is launched in honor of Tenjin-sama, the goddess of mercy. There are also many other unique fireworks to be enjoyed throughout the fireworks spectacle. Date & Time Jul 24-25・15:00~ Price Free Location Kema Sakuranomiya Park More Details Tips for the Best Fireworks-Viewing Experience Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up quickly and bring a large crowd — bring a picnic blanket and stake out a good viewing location well before sunset. Wear a Yukata: Embrace the festive spirit by wearing a traditional summer kimono, often sold or rented near event areas. Bring Snacks and Drinks: Festival food is everywhere, but lines can be long. Bringing your own refreshments saves time and money, and keeps you hydrated in the summer heat. Check Transportation Plans: Trains and buses can be packed after the event, so know your route home and consider walking part of the way. Respect the Space: Clean up after yourself and follow local etiquette. Many events provide trash bags or designated bins. Related Posts Heat Waves Force Japan's Beloved Summer Festivals To Change Seasons The Explosive Traditions and Innovations of Japanese Fireworks Displays 5 Japanese Products To Save You From The Summer Heat
5 days ago
- Science
Okinawan Remains Looted in Early Showa Era Returned by Kyoto Univ.
News from Japan Society May 29, 2025 19:20 (JST) Kyoto, May 29 (Jiji Press)--Remains taken by Japanese researchers from a tomb in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa in the early 20th century have been returned, it was learned Thursday. Researchers from Kyoto Imperial University, which is now Kyoto University, had taken the remains early in the country's Showa era (1926-1989) from the "Mumujanabaka" tomb built in the middle ages in the Okinawan village of Nakijin. The remains, stored in 15 container boxes, were delivered to the Nakijin board of education on May 21. The board, which is set to preserve the remains as academic materials, said it was told by Kyoto University that the remains were of at least 26 people. An assistant professor and lecturer from Kyoto Imperial University are believed to have taken the remains from Mumujanabaka, according to the board. The descendants of those in the tomb filed a lawsuit in 2018 demanding that Kyoto University return the remains. Kyoto District Court and Osaka High Court rejected the demand but called on relevant organizations to hold discussions to resolve the issue. [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.] Jiji Press
Tokyo Weekender
23-05-2025
- Tokyo Weekender
Day Trip From Tokyo: Discover Chichibu's Retro Charm and Sacred Sites
One of the best things about visiting or living in Tokyo is the colorful constellation of daytrip destinations surrounding the city. Among them, few places rival the charm of Chichibu — a region beloved by locals for its seasonal beauty, nostalgic atmosphere and spiritual significance. Situated at the mountainous heart of Saitama Prefecture, this historic city is just over an hour away from Ikebukuro Station via the sleek Laview limited express train. Chichibu has a wealth of treasures waiting to be discovered. Even a day trip will leave you feeling as though you've catapulted through centuries of history, following timeworn pilgrimage routes and marveling at charming retro diners that feel frozen in time. Read on to learn more about the best of Chichibu, and how to easily access the area. Stroll Back in Time on Banba Street At the heart of Chichibu is Banba Street, home to a nostalgic collection of Taisho-era architectural gems straight out of a black-and-white film. We walked down the charming cobblestone paths to explore several famed historic eateries, housed in meticulously preserved Japanese-Western buildings of the early 1900s. Pari Shokudo Pari Shokudo (est. 1927), which translates to 'Pari Restaurant,' is a dream come true for lovers of retro aesthetics and food. Decorated with old posters and an eclectic array of knickknacks, the space takes visitors back to a simpler time. The restaurant, run by third generation owner Yoshitomo Kawabe, is a registered tangible cultural property of Japan, which speaks to its indispensability as a living capsule of Showa period history. I savored the best omurice of my life here, paired perfectly with a sparkling melon soda float. The building's exterior is a sight to behold in itself; it's a rare remnant of kanban kenchiku (signboard architecture), Art Deco-inspired three-story buildings from the early 20th century with distinctive, decorative facades. Pari Shokudo, with its mottled gray walls and faded gold lettering, fittingly occupies the cover of a book by Masakazu Hagino on the art form: Signboard Architecture: Showa Era Shops and Lifestyles . Highlander Inn Chichibu A hop and a skip away from Pari Shokudo is Highlander Inn Chichibu, a pub that blends Scottish culture with Japanese hospitality. We spoke with managing director Kotaro Iwasaki, who introduced us to Chichibu's incredible whisky, served alongside pub food . 'I'm originally from Chiba, and bartended for a long time in Tokyo,' he told us. 'But when I got the opportunity to mold an abandoned traditional building into a lively hub of cultural fusion, I jumped at the chance.' Highlander's delicious menu, which includes Scottish pub classics like haggis, cottage pie and fish and chips, complements its unique drink menu, which includes Japanese, Irish and Scottish beer on tap, Chichibu malt and grain whisky, honey wine and cocktails. Our favorites were the Ichiro's Malt Whisky trio — matured, vatted and bottled in Chichibu — and the fragrant Mead Chichibu Hyakka, sweet wine made from Chichibu wildflower honey. Parlor Koizumi For coffee lovers visiting Japan, experiencing kissaten culture is a must. Translating to 'tea-drinking shops,' kissaten are cozy, atmospheric coffee shops that emerged as a facet of Japan's post-war Western influence. Parlor Koizumi, run by a family of four, is one of the best in the genre, effortlessly encapsulating the warm palette and optimistic spirit of the mid-Showa era. We devoured the shop's famous fruit parfaits and warm coffee, all while basking in the space's effortlessly calming ambience and homey decor. Saiko-ji (Fudasho No. 16) Embark on the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage For hundreds of years, worshippers have walked the routes of the Kannon pilgrimage to strengthen their connection to the Kannon, a Buddhist deity of mercy and compassion. The Japan 100 Kannon refers to three distinct circuits of temples: the Sai k oku pilgrimage of the west, Bando pilgrimage of the east and the Chichibu pilgrimage of Saitama. 'The Chichibu pilgrimage is special because it includes 34 temples, unlike the other two, which have 33,' Tetsuhiro Aratani, the chief priest of Hosho-ji Temple (No. 32), explained. 'In the early 13th century, it consisted of 33 temples, which symbolizes Kannon-sama's 33 different forms, but one more temple was added in the 16th century to create the Japan 100.' Stretching across about 100 km, the Chichibu route is also the shortest of the three, making it relatively accessible. Saiko-ji (Fudasho No. 16) Saiko-ji (Fudasho No. 16) Fudasho: Sites of Buddhist Spirituality Temples of the Chichibu pilgrimage are called fudasho , a name that descends from the old practice of pilgrims nailing wooden nameplates ( fuda ) at the temples to mark their visit. On our tour with Aratani, we visited three fudasho. Jigen-ji (No. 13) houses a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, which is said to help improve visitors' eye health. During the Ame-yakushi Festival on July 8, the temple displays wooden plaques inscribed with the character 'eye,' and sells black sesame seed 'bukkaki' candy for eye health. Imamiya-bo (No. 14), which enshrines a rare 1300-year old half-lotus seated statue of a heavenly being , has an interesting history. It used to share grounds with Imamiya Shrine, but the two were severed during the Meiji era due to a governmental decree separating Shintoism and Buddhism. Saiko-ji (No. 16) contains the oldest relic of the Chichibu pilgrimage — its fudado , or votive plaque hall, originates in the year 1234. It possesses a rare tranquility, with a beautiful willow tree at its center. Here, you can stand atop sand and gravel from the sacred Shikoku pilgrimage route , and walk through a corridor that houses uniquely striking sculptural copies of all the temples' principal images. Chichibu Shrine: The Heart of Shinto Interestingly, Chichibu is also home to a famous Shinto shrine that's believed to have over 2000 years of history. Chichibu Shrine is most well known as the site of the Chichibu Night Festival, which takes place every December, but it is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit at any time of the year. Make sure to try mizu-ura mikuji here — a fortune-telling slip that only reveals its text when dipped in water. During our visit, we were struck by the vividness and intricacy of the main hall's animal carvings, which were apparently repainted not long ago. Look out for the three monkey carving, which reverses the traditional depiction of the Three Wise Monkeys — often associated with the proverb 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil' — by instead embodying the phrase 'see well, listen well, and speak well.' A Sea of Pink Moss Phlox at Hitsujiyama Park Because of its proximity to central Tokyo and abundance of breathtaking scenery, Chichibu makes for an ideal short getaway from the city. The best part is that Chichibu's natural vistas are not limited by season: The winter brings enchanting icicles, and fall comes with jaw-dropping foliage. On our trip, we were lucky enough to catch Hitsujiyama Park's stunning hillside of shibazakura at its peak. Each year from mid April to early May, some 400,000 pink moss phlox blooms flourish in the area, forming an otherworldly floral haze as far as the eye can see. Framed by a cascading sea of pink and purple , the majestic Mount Buko rises in the distance, creating a truly memorable sight. In early April, the park boasts a dazzling variety of cherry blossom trees. Hot Spring Relaxation at Matsuri no Yu While Japan's hot springs are world-famous, not all onsens are easily accessible. What makes Chichibu unique among hot spring destinations is its unparalleled reachability. Matsuri no Yu is attached right next to the ornate Seibu-Chichibu Station, so you can enjoy a soak immediately upon arrival or at the end of your trip. The name 'Matsuri no Yu,' meaning 'festival bath,' pays homage to Chichibu's rich festival culture. With four types of open-air baths, a large food court serving local cuisine and a lovely souvenir section, the facility is a must-visit. How to Access Chichibu To get to Chichibu from central Tokyo, take the Laview limited express train from Ikebukuro Station. With gorgeous velveteen yellow seats, wide windows for optimal views, clean bathrooms and Wi-Fi and outlets, the thoughtfully designed vehicle — made by world-renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima — ensures a relaxing trip. English speakers can book tickets in advance here , or purchase them at Seibu Tourist Information Center in Ikebukuro. (Operating hours: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.) Customer service is available in Japanese, English, Korean and Chinese. The Seibu 1-Day Pass — exclusively available to foreign nationals — is the most convenient way to travel to Chichibu from Tokyo. You can purchase the pass on the day of travel at the Seibu Tourist Information Center (TIC), or buy it in advance through Klook , which will provide you with a convenient QR code ticket. For more information, click here . Seibu Tourist Information Center in Ikebukuro Station If you are hoping to visit multiple sites west of Tokyo during your trip, the Seibu 1 Day Pass is also highly recommended. It gives you access to limitless rides on the Seibu Railway Lines for the day (excluding the Tamagawa Line). Other than the sites introduced above, you can visit the famous Nagatoro River for a scenic boat ride, the historic town of Kawagoe, Moominvalley Park in Hanno and much more. Book online on Klook , or purchase at Seibu Tourist Information Center . (Moominvalley Park passes are only available on Klook .)
The Mainichi
23-05-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
Opinion: Japan politicians need to stop saying 'I was scolded by my wife' when apologizing
TOKYO -- "Actually, I got a call from my wife, and she was angry with me." These were the words of former agriculture minister Taku Eto, explaining himself to reporters the day after he said he had "never bought rice" amid rice shortages and high prices Japanese consumers are facing. I was thinking, "Again?" Why do politicians bring up their wives, and say, "I got scolded by my wife," or, "My wife was angry," when trying to explain a gaffe? Former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori, who served as president of the now dissolved Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, did the same thing. In 2021, after he was criticized for making the sexist comment, "Board meetings with many women involved drag on," he said, "My wife was very mad at me," and, "I got scolded by my daughter and granddaughter, too." Is it still believed in the Nagatacho district, Japan's political center, that saying "My wife got mad at me" serves as a sort of excuse? It seems to trivialize the issue as a domestic matter, making any apology appear even more insincere. Commenting on the now sacked minister's remark, essayist Seira Fujii posted on X (formerly Twitter), "So he has now dealt the 'patriarchal I'm-sorry card,' where a husband asks for forgiveness because his wife, whom he considers to be 'below' him, scolded him." In the United States, the wives of politicians sometimes appear when their husbands are making apologies. During former President Bill Clinton's affair scandal, his wife Hillary publicly stated that while her husband's actions were undesirable, they were not grounds for impeachment. In a prostitution scandal involving then New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer, his wife attended his apology press conference. In the U.S., a wife's "forgiveness" seems to be key to the husband's redemption. However, the context is entirely different between cases like infidelity, where the wife is a "victim," and former minister Eto's "rice" gaffe. In Japan, the "my wife got mad at me" comment carries an implicit nuance of "I am sincerely reflecting to the extent that I even listen to my wife's (not particularly necessary) scolding," along with an "oops" vibe -- like a gesture of sticking out one's tongue and smiling to lighten the mood. It is a "Showa era (1926-1989) gesture" suggesting that a husband dominated by his wife is lovable. The phrase "I got scolded by my wife" evokes a mood uniquely associated with Japan's outdated male-dominated society, where saying this to colleagues at work allows men to get sympathy. This might be one of the roots of the "my wife got mad at me" remarks. Politicians, saying "I was scolded by my wife" is not an apology at all. Isn't it time they stopped saying this? (Japanese original by Ayako Oguni, Opinion Editorial Department)
