Plain Talk
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26. 2025Keeping Tokyo clean by David Williams
I am often woken up in the morning by the sound of a broomstick scraping across the concrete of the street below my apartment window. Almost every morning, my neighbors dutifully sweep the streets in front of their houses with a hoki or Japanese broomstick. I must admit that being woken up at the crack of dawn is sometimes an annoyance, but, over time, I have come to appreciate that this ritual keeps the neighborhood spotlessly clean and this, in turn, makes all of our lives better.
This tradition of cleanliness has a long history in Japan. The indigenous Shinto religion is centered around notions of maintaining purity and avoiding impurity, and Japanese Buddhism also places great importance on cleaning as a part of its daily practices. Cleaning, or soji in Japanese, has become part of the national character and a point of national pride.
Students are required to clean their classrooms after school on a daily basis, and employees likewise clean in front of their workplaces before opening for business.
Millions of commuters ride Tokyo’s labyrinthine train network each day, yet the trains and platforms remain immaculately clean. Considering the size of Tokyo’s population and the scarcity of public trash cans, the streets stay surprisingly litter free, a fact that never fails to impress foreign visitors.
With all this in mind, I guess the next time that I am woken up at an ungodly hour of the morning by the sound of my neighbors’ broomsticks striking the pavement, I should be thankful that they are keeping our little corner of Tokyo tidy. And with millions of people all over Japan participating in the same morning ritual, the entire country is able to maintain its impressive level of cleanliness, as well as its reputation as one of the cleanest countries in the world.
朝、アパートの窓の下の道路をホウキがコンクリートをこする音で起こされることがよくある。 ほぼ毎朝、近所の人たちが家の前の通りをホウキで掃除しているのだ。夜明けに起こされるのは正直迷惑なこともあるが、この儀式が近隣を清潔に保ち、ひいては私たちの生活をより良いものにしているのだと、長い時間をかけて理解するようになった。
清潔に保つという日本の伝統には長い歴史がある。日本固有の宗教である神道は、純潔を保ち、不浄を避けるという概念を中心に据えている。掃除は国民性の一部であり、日本人の誇りでもある。
学生は放課後に教室を掃除するのが日課であり、従業員も同様に営業前に職場の前を掃除する。
東京の迷路のような電車網には毎日何百万人もの通勤客が乗っているが、電車やホームは完璧なまでに清潔に保たれている。東京の人口の多さと公共のゴミ箱の少なさを考えると、街には驚くほどゴミが落ちていない。
このようなことを考えると、今度、朝早くに近所の人が歩道を叩くほうきの音で起こされた時は、東京の小さな一角を整理整頓してくれている彼らに感謝するべきだろう。そして、日本中の何百万という人々がこの朝の儀式を行っていることで、日本全体が、世界でも最も清潔な国だという高評判を受けるとともに、印象的な清潔レベルを維持することができるのである。
Plain Talk
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback August 11. 2017Japanese Yards by Raulie W. Schnee
When I first came to Japan one of the first things I noticed was that Japanese yards were crowded with so many thick hedges and trees. They were hardly the aesthetically pleasing Japanese gardens that I was expecting to see.
Not only were they crammed with vegetation in every conceivable space, but the small trees required extensive and precise trimming to keep their shape. Back home in the suburban U.S. it is a standard practice to devote most of one’s free time in the summer to maintaining a large yard. Most homes have at least one riding lawn mower in the garage.
But while the American family enjoys the wide open space around their houses, the Japanese feel safe behind their walls of vegetation.
One could guess correctly that the hedges keep the walls of the house cool in the summer and lend a modicum of privacy where there is very little space between houses in the suburbs of large metropolitan areas, especially around Tokyo.
But these hedge walls have a more important function. They serve as a first line of defense against the spread of fire. During the firestorms that swept Tokyo after the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, residents who fled to parks surrounded by trees survived, and others who fled to other designated disaster refuges without vegetation around them died.
Controlled burn experiments have shown that sparks from as far away as 18 m can set fire to a traditional wood frame house with no hedges or trees around it. However, a shower of parks from a fire as close as 2 to 5 m to the same type of house (but surrounded by thick vegetation) will no set the house ablaze. The large amount of water in the vegetation may burst into steam but the hedges and trees will not flare up, burn, and then spread the fire to the house.
If you are living here you should know the location of the evacuation area nearest to your residence so you know where to go in case of an emergency. In your neighborhood there will be a sign with a map that shows you where to go in case of a disaster. An arrow on the map will show you your present location in front of the sign. One or more green patches on the map will indicate where you should go. In my neighborhood there are two such areas: an elementary school playground and a large golf course.
It is not by chance that the selected color for these safe havens is green. These areas are surrounded by trees and vegetation. And if you are ever caught out in a strange neighborhood after an earthquake, follow the local residents to the closest safe haven. You can bet it will be protected by trees and hedges as a first line of defense against spreading fire.
Unfinished business
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD MAY 17. 2019Farewell to a Japan Jazz Icon by David Gregory
The messages from all over Japan read aloud during the service helped us realize how widely Koyama-san touched lives and how many like us were feeling something newly missing from our worlds. But, although wonderful and sometimes saddening us, they did not trigger crying. That happened next.
Those first few notes of the "'Round About Midnight" Miles Davis version, the cut Koyama-san always used to open Jazz Tonight, performed by a live piano and trumpet duo up front near the coffin, did it: Instant recognition, recollections, sighs around the room, eyes closed, arms crossed, heads dropped back or down, and tears, at least for me. How many times had we heard, after Miles breathed his somber opening, Koyama-san's low, raspy voice welcoming us into the studio with, "Minna-san, gokigen ikaga desho-ka everybody, how are you feeling?"?and never thought that someday we would hear him ask about us no more?
Koyama-san's widow, whom, like him, had never known me, stood alone at the coffin head and bowed in silence to everyone in turn after they placed flowers around his body as the duo continued with another slow number, the trumpet sounding so strong and crisp and unusual in a memorial service hall. After we placed our flowers, she responded to my hand on her shoulder, a touch just meant to console her, by immediately turning and reaching for me?a total stranger?burying her head in my chest, and breaking down. She needed that hug that everybody sometimes needs. She let go after her respite when she was ready to face the coffin and everyone else again, and returned to her position. Going to Kashiwa in a snowstorm was worth it just for those few moments when I could do something for her.
So our Kashiwa day was both sad and good. But, why did I even want to go a funeral for a man whom I only knew by voice, and who, although linked to jazz, was not even a musician?
Koyama-san and his Jazz Tonight program I listened to since at least the early 2000s. For more than sixteen years, while my life in Japan has been filled with huge uncertainties, he has been here Saturday nights on the radio, reliable, keeping me connected to the world's music and opening my ears to music from Japan I would not know without him. Listening to him always made me feel good, no matter what had happened in my life during the week or what was coming up in the weeks ahead. Koyama-san and Jazz Tonight were my respite. How well can I replace that comfort?
Koyama-san, thank you for helping this foreigner feel good in Japan. Please rest well in jazz heaven.
NHK Radio, thank you for giving Koyama-san a way to connect with us. Please encourage other DJs to continue doing what he did so well.
To Koyama-san's surviving family members: Please care well for yourselves now, and thank you for supporting and sharing Kiyoshi with us.
The Smallest Box by David Gregory
She came over to my table and asked if I remembered her.
“That’s my boyfriend over there.”
Their table hugged a pillar blocking the sunny Tokyo Bay view enjoyed by the other customers that afternoon in Chiba’s AquaRink ice skating facility café.
“Maybe we will marry next year.”
On my way out, I stopped to congratulate the potential groom to be. What I later heard happened with Hiromi and Hiroshi that night at another place also close to the bay sounded so too good to be true that I visited that place to confirm it really happened. It did.
Hiroshi had reserved for the course menu that night at OCEAN TABLE, next to Chiba Port, on the second floor, where tables sat by the huge windows facing Chiba Port Tower and Tokyo Bay. No view-blocking pillars there. And they had a wait, even with their reservation, because it was Christmas Eve, which in Japan matters much more than the following day; the Eve is the year’s couples’ night out, and single women without dates that night can feel their whole year was wasted.
Hiroshi had changed into a suit after skating, and had urged Hiromi, against her protests about overdressing, into a plaid one-piece, raising expectations. They had never come to a place this nice, one requiring reservations. Saizeriya was more their speed: fast faux-Italian, cheap, and everywhere.
The unexpected wait made Hiroshi antsy. He relaxed and all was perfect after they were seated.
They talked. They ate the Christmas Dinner courses. They ignored the soft Christmas background music. They admired the gleaming, golden Christmas Tree rising from the first-floor buffet area through the open center space across from their table. They could see outside the sparkling flashes and half the tree in Port Tower’s Christmas Illumination, and beyond, the lights from the ships on and facilities around Tokyo Bay, appearing almost twinkling. Perfect—but not for Hiromi.
She went to the toilet. Still he had not asked. The day was done. The reservation system only allowed them two hours there. They had been together all day. He had remembered her birthday-just by coincidence, also that day-with a necklace at AquaRink. Nice, but was that all? He had pestered her since early December about what Christmas present she wanted until she had finally exploded with, “Nothing! Don’t you know I just want a proposal?!” And had added she wanted it to be a surprise. Here he had the perfect chance, and he was wasting it.
She could try enjoying what was left of the evening. Dessert was next. At least here was better than Saizeriya….She was still stuck when she returned to the table, and had no chance to do or say anything, anyway. It was his toilet turn.
Their desserts came. Hiromi sat and waited and pondered the future. Outside, the tower stood alone against the dark sky and Tokyo Bay’s inky darkness.
Their desserts waited. Maybe his tooth was bothering him again. Maybe he was just tolerating it to make the night go well. Maybe for her. Maybe she should go to check on him. Wait-maybe she just heard his voice across the room.
No, only Santa Claus, posing for photographs with diners at the far table. He then started circling the room, giving a small present from his big sack at each table. She could check after he was done.
Hiroshi still had not returned to his seat when Santa reached their table. He handed Hiromi a big, red stocking, by far the room’s largest gift, accompanied by a squeaky, “Atari! You’re a lucky one!” Yeah. She set it aside and Santa moved on. What was he still doing in the toilet?
Santa finished his round, returned to Hiromi, and pointed at her unopened stocking with squeaky, “Un! Un!” grunts. The other diners had opened their presents. She forced a smile and said she was waiting for her boyfriend to return. “Un! Un!”
When Hiromi still resisted, Santa took the stocking in his white-gloved hands and opened it himself. Out first came a big, pink box, heart shaped. He opened that and pulled out another heart-shaped box, and then, from inside that, another heart-shaped box. Another smaller, heart-shaped box followed. He removed from that an even smaller heart-shaped box, and thrust it to Hiromi with one more squeaky, “Un!”
Still gone. Well, he’d miss it. Hiromi obeyed Santa this time and opened it, the smallest box in the room …and her mind and face went blank.
After that frozen moment passed, Hiromi looked at Santa. The second shock hit, and more followed. Santa Claus had ripped off his gloves, furry hat, sunglasses, and huge, flowing beard. He took the box from her?she was still speechless?dropped onto one knee, held the open box out and up to her in both stretching hands, and said in a voice loud enough for everyone in the room to hear, “Hiromi-san, boku-to kekkon shite kudasai! Hiromi, please marry me!”
Outside, to anybody looking, Port Tower’s Christmas Illumination still flashed, and the lights on and around Tokyo Bay still appeared almost twinkling. Inside OCEAN TABLE, on the second floor, everything was happening so fast that Hiromi just did not know which was more difficult to believe: Hiroshi and the ring he first tried slipping onto the finger on her right hand, the one he had taken in his before she held out her left hand, or the following PAN! and PAN! PAN! PAN! PAN! PAN! and PAN! PAN! and PAN! explosions ripping and ribbons shooting around the room as diners at the floor’s other tables popped the party crackers they had found with the notes in their presents from Santa Claus.
Copyright © 2018 David L. Gregory All rights reserved.
I Did It! by David Gregory
She had been here before. But, those were tour-guided or hand-held visits. After living most of her life in white-bread suburban USA, driving everywhere, shopping in giant malls and supermarkets, and needing only one currency and one language, my mother ventured out on her own, within and beyond Chiba, during one trip to Japan. From her notes, here are Dorothy's...
ADVENTURES IN JAPAN
Grocery Shopping in Neighborhood―Walk five blocks...buy only one bag...walk five blocks back. Survived it!
Shopping in City Center―Walk six blocks to bus stop. Ride bus fifteen minutes. Arrive at stores. Walk around. Look. Decide: cookies.
Buying: “Ikura desu-ka how much?” Hmm. “Kakimasu kudasai write please.”
Paying options: give large bill, let clerk figure change, or open change purse, let clerk take out correct amount. Decide to just give some cash.
Clerk shakes her head (“NO! MORE!”), then counts out correct amount needed from register and shows me. I mimic her action from my change purse. Smiles! Deep bows with many, “Arigato gozaimasu thank you very much!”-es.
(My error: thought there was decimal point in Yen price....)
Open cookies, expecting pirouettes with chocolate centers. Instead, peanut butter waffle rolls, no chocolate. No wonder, now I see peanut sketch on package. “Shoganai can’t be changed,” I did it to myself. It could have been worse!
~~~
Travelling to Visit Friend’s Family on Other Side of Chiba―Walk ten blocks to train. Purchase ticket. Electronic lady on ticket machine screen says, “Arigato gozaimasu” and bows. Ride train twenty minutes, watching for correct stop, get off, walk seven blocks to house. I did it myself!
Visiting Hisae Overnight―My Japanese study partner in USA returned to Japan, now lives on other side of Tokyo Bay.
Take large purse and large tote bag with jacket, nightie, toothbrush, cosmetics. Walk six blocks to bus stop. Ride bus to train station. Ride train eighty minutes to Yokohama. Find correct exit from station. EASY. Did not even look at note in pocket explaining route and Japanese signs. And, look! Hisae and three-year old Kei are waiting! “Hello!” they say! Many hugs!
I did it!
Then, still more travel: train together fifteen minutes, short taxi uphill to lovely apartment, sunny and bright.
Returning to Chiba, just reverse process. Next time, we can meet at a station halfway in between. I can do it.
I can do it!
Copyright (C) 2015 David Gregory. All rights reserved. Chiba, Japan
Book Review
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD MAY 11 2018Cherry Blossoms in the Time of Earthquakes and Tsunami
by Rey Ventura Reviewed by Randy Swank video maker and scriptwriter Rey Ventura won the 2015 National Book Award for his third collection of essays, Cherry Blossoms in the Time of Earthquakes and Tsunami, but for some strange twist of fate you will find very little information on this book. You can’t even buy it on Amazon. This is a shame because Cherry Blossoms... is a beautiful, insightful and thought-provoking book. |
Cherry Blossoms in the Time of Earthquakes and Tsunami |
In "Miniskirts and Stilettos" we meet Ginto, a young lady who comes to Japan dreaming of making it big as a singer and entertainer but has to deal instead with a much darker reality; while "Mr. Suzuki Tries Again" and "Into the Snow Country" are tragicomic tales of arranged marriages where the dreams and expectations of bride-starved farmers from Japan's Deep North clash with those of young Filipino women who want to escape their poverty and go into marriage "as a girl goes into a convent." Ventura tells these stories with a great eye for detail and manages to find a ray of light even in the darkest corners, or poetry in the midst of a nuclear disaster. The book's first essay is called "The Slow Boat to Manila" and indeed, slowness is the first word that comes to mind when considering Ventura's approach to writing. Everything Ventura does is slow. He is no magazine reporter after all, and will spend days or even months getting to know a person he wants to write about. That's the kind of personal commitment and deep connection with his subject that one feels when reading his essays. |
Tokyo Fab
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26, 2025
Japanese Tea & Live Koto Music Party
Looking for a unique cultural experience in Tokyo? On June 6, 2025 (Friday), the Japanese Tea & Live Koto Music Party will be held at Tsukimasa Shimokitazawa in Setagaya. This welcoming cafe´, established in 1978, provides a cozy setting where guests can enjoy the timeless beauty of koto music alongside traditional Japanese tea.The evening begins at 18:30, with the live performance starting at 19:00. For just ￥2,000, admission includes one drink―matcha or shincha (freshly harvested green tea)―paired with a seasonal Japanese sweet. With seating limited to 18 people, the event offers an intimate space where the gentle tones of the koto create an atmosphere of calm and connection.More than a concert, this gathering invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. The soothing sounds of the koto, paired with the ritual of tea, make for a refined yet comforting evening that appeals to music lovers, tea enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.Easily reached with a short walk from Shimokitazawa Station on the Keio-Inogashira and Odakyu Lines, this is a rare chance to experience Japanese artistry up close. Arrive early, bring a friend, and savor an unforgettable evening of sound and flavor.
Date：10/10 (Fri) @ Japanese Tea Cafe (Closest Sta.: Shimokitazawa Sta.)
https://teaparty-kotomusic.wixsite.com/event-en02
Salsa Street Festival 2025
Salsa Street Festival 2025 is shaping up to be the go-to event for lovers of Latin dance, music, and culture. Imagine open-air stages pulsating with salsa bands, foot-stomping percussion, vibrant dancers twirling in color, and the smell of street food mingling in the air. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just enjoy moving to the beat, this festival promises performances, dance workshops, and social dancing through the night.
Bring your dancing shoes―there will likely be live bands or DJs, instructor-led sessions to help novices get started, as well as areas to sit back and just soak up the atmosphere. Street stalls will offer Latin-inspired cuisine and refreshing drinks, while markets may showcase crafts, fashion, and goods reflecting Latin and salsa culture.
If you’re visiting, check for ticket tiers (general / VIP), schedule of performances, venue access (indoors/outdoors), and transport options. Arrive early to catch the full experience―warm-ups, meet the artists, and get a good dance-floor spot. Salsa Street is not just an event; it’s a celebration of rhythm, community, and joy in motion.
Date： October 4th (Sat) & 5th (Sun) @ Ueno Park
https://wsavannast.com/events/salsa-street/
Have You Been To...
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26, 2025
Higashi Chaya District [Kanazawa, Ishikawa]
Step back in time in Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa’s historic geisha quarter. Stroll along streets lined with preserved wooden teahouses, artisan shops, and traditional cafes. Visitors can enjoy gold leaf crafts, local sweets, and glimpses of geisha culture. This charming district perfectly blends history, art, and culture, offering a picturesque escape into Japan’s Edo-era elegance.
Shosenkyo [Kofu, Yamanashi]
Discover the natural beauty of Shosenkyo Gorge in Yamanashi Prefecture, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, clear streams, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Hike scenic trails, cross suspension bridges, and marvel at the iconic Koboro Falls. Whether visiting in autumn for fiery maple leaves or spring for cherry blossoms, Shosenkyo offers a breathtaking escape into Japan’s serene mountain landscapes.
Sujiyu Onsen [Yutsubo, Oita]
Relax and unwind at Sujiyu Onsen, a hidden hot spring retreat in Gunma Prefecture. Known for its soothing mineral-rich waters and tranquil atmosphere, this traditional onsen offers a serene escape from city life. Surrounded by nature, visitors can soak in outdoor baths, enjoy seasonal scenery, and experience authentic Japanese bathing culture in a peaceful, restorative setting.
Jozankei Onsen [Sapporo, Hokkaido]
Nestled in the mountains near Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town perfect for relaxation and nature lovers. Surrounded by rivers and forests, it offers soothing outdoor and indoor baths, seasonal foliage, and tranquil walks. A visit here combines authentic Japanese onsen culture with stunning scenery, making it an ideal escape from city life.
Tokyo Voice Column
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback: DECEMBER 23. 2016
Streets of Tokyo by Katie Povee
As I stroll the streets of Tokyo, I have realized through a collected chaos that this city is not as scary as I had imagined. The nature of being overwhelmed with so many people in a tight area makes individuals notice that they are not alone. With every corner, there are more people and more opportunities for one to seek.
The city is divided by the juntas one is seeking, may it be an upscale establishment in Roppongi Hills, the parade of lights in Shinjuki, the shops in Ginza, or the business district of Shiodome. Each subdivision offers an array of a creative atmosphere, almost like a mural painted by various artists. As I sat and watched the Shibuya Scramble (Crossing), an appreciation grew inside for not only the love of the Japanese culture but, how magnificent they are under pressure. As an American, I can say I don’t think we handle the stress of traffic and the individual characteristics quite as well. If you compared this environment to that of New York or Los Angeles, you would hear words that pertain a foul character and see hand gestures that aren’t the nicest.
The love that grew from observing how one held themselves daily as they commuted by walking, running, train, or subway provided a new desire to further investigate the deeper meaning of this empowering and composed city much more than I had the opportunity to at the given moment. The calmness presented makes me want to leap in with an open heart having faith that I too, can be a part of this diverse community. The divine energy is radiant bringing peace because we all come together merging as one going through it all together. Tokyo has opened my eyes to see something I did not think was possible, a reality showing me it is possible to live in a ginormous city that yet feels like a small town. With every path that I had explored or subway/train ridden, I could inherently appreciate a world that in the future I too, can call home. Tokyo at times left me speechless with no words but just love. With that being said, I can only imagine what other hidden gems Japan has.
東京の通りを散策して雑踏にまぎれると、この街は私が思っていた程怖くない。狭い場所に大勢の人がいて、その数に圧倒されるが、そこにいる一人一人にひとりぼっちじゃないだと気づかせてくれる。どの街角に行っても人は大勢いるが、その分自分が求めるものが見つかるチャンスも多い。
東京は街ごとに人それぞれが求める異なる雰囲気をもつ。六本木ヒルズは高所得者層の秩序があり、新宿は光り輝くビルが建ち並び、銀座はショッピング街で、汐留はビジネス街だ。どの街も創造性に富んだ雰囲気をもち、まるでざまざまな画家によって描かれた壁画のようだ。すわって渋谷交差点を眺めていると、日本文化のすばらしいさだけでなく、こんな状況下での日本人の秩序正しさに頭が下がる。アメリカ人である私は、アメリカではこのようなスムーズな人の流れは期待できないし、誰もが混雑にがまんできないだろう。ニューヨークやロサンジェルスであったら、気性の荒い人言葉が聞こえたり、下品は仕草が見られるだろう。
歩いたり、走ったり、電車や地下鉄に乗る日本人の日常生活を観察してわき起こる尊敬の念から、限られた時間以上に時間をかけて東京の秘密を探りたいと思う。ただよう静けさは、心を開いてこの多様なコミュニティの一員になりたいという衝動に私をかりたてる。私たちはみなひとつであり、共に生きる事で平和がもたらされると、神々しい力が降注ぐ。東京を知る事で私の目から鱗が落ちた。可能だとは思えなかったのに、小さな町で暮らすような生活が巨大都市でも可能だという現実を知った。通りを歩きながら、地下鉄／電車に乗りながら、将来私もホームと呼べる世界で暮らすだろう。東京では、時々言葉を失うかわりに、暖かい気持ちにさせられることがある。日本は他にどんなすばらしい秘密を隠し持っているのかと、私は想像をふくらませる。
MUSEUM -What's Going on?-
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26. 2025
TOP 30th Anniversary Pedro Costa Innervisions
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, we present Pedro Costa: Innervisions. Representing Portugal, Costa (b. 1958) is internationally acclaimed not only for his cinema but also for exhibitions such as Company (2018, Serralves Museum, Porto) and The Song of Pedro Costa (2022−23, touring Spain).The title pays homage to Stevie Wonder’s 1973 album Innervisions, a formative influence Costa first encountered as a teenager. Wonder’s exploration of the relationship between society and the individual resonates deeply with Costa’s filmmaking practice.Japanese audiences first encountered his work with the theatrical release of In Vanda’s Room (2004), a stark portrayal of a woman from Cape Verde living in Lisbon’s Fontainhas slum. Costa’s cinema is known for its luminous contrasts of darkness and light, its still yet precise compositions, and its salvaging of fragments of everyday reality.
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Through these, he dissects social structures while uncovering new perspectives.This exhibition focuses on recurring characters such as Ventura, central figures in Costa’s oeuvre, alongside the places they inhabit. It also draws from the museum’s own collection to illuminate Costa’s cinematic world and its sociohistorical dimensions, with Innervisions serving as a guiding motif.Throughout the run, the museum’s first-floor hall will host Carte Blanche, a series of films selected by Costa himself, screened alongside his own celebrated works.We hope this exhibition offers audiences a rare chance to experience the depth and power of Costa’s cinema from new vantage points, and we extend our gratitude to the artist and all who contributed to its realization.
Period: - Dec. 7, 2025
Venue: The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum
Closed: Mondays (except when Monday falls on a holiday, in which case the museum is open and closed the following day)
Hours: 10:00-20:00 (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: ￥800 / College Students ￥640 / High School Students, Over 65 ￥400 / *Free for junior high school students or younger
For more information, please visit
Film Director Yoshimitsu Morita
From his earliest 8mm productions to his commercial debut Something Like It (1981), director Morita Yoshimitsu (1950−2011) remained an independent spirit whose work shaped Japanese cinema from the 1980s onward. Constantly reinventing himself, he moved fluidly across genres―comedy, idol films, literary adaptations, romances, courtroom dramas, horror, mysteries, even jidaigeki period pieces.
Morita’s films are marked by bold experimentation, unexpected direction, and a keen awareness of the society around him. In The Family Game (1983), he dissected family life with satirical precision, sparking national debate and earning acclaim as a defining work of the decade. Later, The Black House (1999) combined psychological horror with biting social commentary, once again capturing the mood of its time. Time and again, his films transcended entertainment to become cultural touchstones, reflecting the complexities of modern Japan.
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This exhibition celebrates the full scope of Morita’s creativity. Alongside screenings of his diverse works, it showcases personal items and original film props that reveal the imagination and humor behind the camera. Together, they present a portrait of a director whose restless curiosity pushed him to challenge convention at every turn.
In recent years, Morita’s films have been rediscovered and reevaluated on a global scale, with critics highlighting their originality and contemporary relevance. This exhibition not only revisits his enduring legacy but also invites new audiences to encounter a filmmaker whose ideas and artistry remain as vital today as when they first startled Japanese cinema.
Period: − November 30 (Sun)
Venue: National Film Archive of Japan
Closed: Mondays & 10/7-12
Hours: 11:00 − 18:30 / − 20:00 on 9/26, 10/31, 11/28 (all Fri) (Last admission: 20:00)
Admission: Regular￥500 / University & College Students ￥300 / Free for Seniors (age 65 or over), High School Students and under 18
Strange but True
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26. 2025
Pillow or Octopus?
Sometimes, curiosity gets the better of us―and in Japan, it got hilariously literal. A woman recently went viral after uploading a video showing her seemingly taking a nap on a live octopus at a seafood market. Yes, you read that right: a squirming, eight-legged creature became her unexpected “pillow.” The video, shot at a bustling market, shows the woman lying down gently, resting her head on the octopus while the curious cephalopod wriggled underneath. Shoppers nearby looked on in equal parts shock and amusement. Social media users quickly dubbed her the “octopus napper,” with comments ranging from laughing emojis to playful warnings about seafood etiquette. While the octopus was unharmed and returned to its tank, the clip captured a rare, absurd moment that perfectly blends Japan’s love for quirky humor with the unpredictability of daily life. Clearly, this is one nap that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
Librarian Cat!
In a charming turn of events, a stray cat has found a forever home―and a career―in a small French town library. The feline, affectionately named Biblio, was officially appointed as the library’s honorary librarian, quickly stealing the hearts of staff and visitors alike. Biblio’s “duties” are as delightful as they are unconventional: roaming the shelves, curling up on reading tables, and occasionally “assisting” patrons in selecting books―mostly by lounging on top of the ones it favors. Social media photos of the cat napping among classics and new releases went viral, turning the library into a must-visit attraction. Library staff say Biblio has boosted attendance, with visitors coming not just for the books but to meet the furry librarian. In a world full of technology and screens, this four-legged helper reminds everyone that sometimes, the best companion for a quiet reading day has paws and whiskers.
Links
Guesthouse Tokyo
10 minutes to Ikebukuro.
Interhouse
safe and accessible solution for your accommodation needs in Tokyo.
Sakura House
1830 monthly furnished rooms at 204 locations in Tokyo.
TOKYO ROOM FINDER
Contact our international team that will assist you in finding housing
and overcoming any communication barriers in Japan!
J&F Plaza
Furnished & unfurnished guesthouses and apartments in Tokyo.
May Flower House
Tokyo furnished apartments. Ginza, Roppongi, Yotsuya and more.
TenTen Guesthouse
33,000yen/30 days for working holiday students.
GOOD ROOM TOKYO
Share room, Private room, under 50,000yen
MOVE JAPAN
Private furnished rooms in Tokyo with free internet. Call us first or call us last!
Tokyomove.com
Hassle free moving starts from 6000yen.
Tokyo Helping Hands
Very flexible working hours to effectly help you with moving, deliveries, disposal, storage and more!
AirNet Travel
We'll cut you the best air ticket deals anywhere.
Fun Travel
Discount air travel & package tours 2min from Roppongi Stn.
No.1 Travel
We go the extra mile for you. International air tickets and hotels.
JR Tokai Tours
Top-value travel to Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya from Tokyo by Shinkansen.
Matsuda Legal Office
All kinds of Visa, Immigration & Naturalization, International Marriage etc.
Futaba Visa Office
Licensed immigration lawyer & certified public tax consultant.
American Pharmacy
English speaking pharmacy since 1950.
Tokyo Skin Clinic
EU-licensed multi lingual doctors.
Tax-free AKKY
Japanese Appliance, Watch, Souvenirs
Tokyo Speed Dating
1st Sat. & 3rd Sun. at Bari n Roppongi ETC.
Tokyo Spontaneous
Picnic, Parties, Language exchange
TMA
Japanese women & Western men.
Tokyo Fab
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26, 2025Japanese Tea & Live Koto Music Party
Looking for a unique cultural experience in Tokyo? On June 6, 2025 (Friday), the Japanese Tea & Live Koto Music Party will be held at Tsukimasa Shimokitazawa in Setagaya. This welcoming cafe´, established in 1978, provides a cozy setting where guests can enjoy the timeless beauty of koto music alongside traditional Japanese tea.The evening begins at 18:30, with the live performance starting at 19:00. For just ￥2,000, admission includes one drink―matcha or shincha (freshly harvested green tea)―paired with a seasonal Japanese sweet. With seating limited to 18 people, the event offers an intimate space where the gentle tones of the koto create an atmosphere of calm and connection.More than a concert, this gathering invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. The soothing sounds of the koto, paired with the ritual of tea, make for a refined yet comforting evening that appeals to music lovers, tea enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.Easily reached with a short walk from Shimokitazawa Station on the Keio-Inogashira and Odakyu Lines, this is a rare chance to experience Japanese artistry up close. Arrive early, bring a friend, and savor an unforgettable evening of sound and flavor.
Date：10/10 (Fri) @ Japanese Tea Cafe (Closest Sta.: Shimokitazawa Sta.)
https://teaparty-kotomusic.wixsite.com/event-en02
Salsa Street Festival 2025
Salsa Street Festival 2025 is shaping up to be the go-to event for lovers of Latin dance, music, and culture. Imagine open-air stages pulsating with salsa bands, foot-stomping percussion, vibrant dancers twirling in color, and the smell of street food mingling in the air. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just enjoy moving to the beat, this festival promises performances, dance workshops, and social dancing through the night.
Bring your dancing shoes―there will likely be live bands or DJs, instructor-led sessions to help novices get started, as well as areas to sit back and just soak up the atmosphere. Street stalls will offer Latin-inspired cuisine and refreshing drinks, while markets may showcase crafts, fashion, and goods reflecting Latin and salsa culture.
If you’re visiting, check for ticket tiers (general / VIP), schedule of performances, venue access (indoors/outdoors), and transport options. Arrive early to catch the full experience―warm-ups, meet the artists, and get a good dance-floor spot. Salsa Street is not just an event; it’s a celebration of rhythm, community, and joy in motion.
Date： October 4th (Sat) & 5th (Sun) @ Ueno Park
https://wsavannast.com/events/salsa-street/
Have You Been To...
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26, 2025Higashi Chaya District [Kanazawa, Ishikawa]
Step back in time in Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa’s historic geisha quarter. Stroll along streets lined with preserved wooden teahouses, artisan shops, and traditional cafes. Visitors can enjoy gold leaf crafts, local sweets, and glimpses of geisha culture. This charming district perfectly blends history, art, and culture, offering a picturesque escape into Japan’s Edo-era elegance.
Shosenkyo [Kofu, Yamanashi]
Discover the natural beauty of Shosenkyo Gorge in Yamanashi Prefecture, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, clear streams, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Hike scenic trails, cross suspension bridges, and marvel at the iconic Koboro Falls. Whether visiting in autumn for fiery maple leaves or spring for cherry blossoms, Shosenkyo offers a breathtaking escape into Japan’s serene mountain landscapes.
Sujiyu Onsen [Yutsubo, Oita]
Relax and unwind at Sujiyu Onsen, a hidden hot spring retreat in Gunma Prefecture. Known for its soothing mineral-rich waters and tranquil atmosphere, this traditional onsen offers a serene escape from city life. Surrounded by nature, visitors can soak in outdoor baths, enjoy seasonal scenery, and experience authentic Japanese bathing culture in a peaceful, restorative setting.
Jozankei Onsen [Sapporo, Hokkaido]
Nestled in the mountains near Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town perfect for relaxation and nature lovers. Surrounded by rivers and forests, it offers soothing outdoor and indoor baths, seasonal foliage, and tranquil walks. A visit here combines authentic Japanese onsen culture with stunning scenery, making it an ideal escape from city life.
Tokyo Voice Column
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback: DECEMBER 23. 2016Streets of Tokyo by Katie Povee
As I stroll the streets of Tokyo, I have realized through a collected chaos that this city is not as scary as I had imagined. The nature of being overwhelmed with so many people in a tight area makes individuals notice that they are not alone. With every corner, there are more people and more opportunities for one to seek.
The city is divided by the juntas one is seeking, may it be an upscale establishment in Roppongi Hills, the parade of lights in Shinjuki, the shops in Ginza, or the business district of Shiodome. Each subdivision offers an array of a creative atmosphere, almost like a mural painted by various artists. As I sat and watched the Shibuya Scramble (Crossing), an appreciation grew inside for not only the love of the Japanese culture but, how magnificent they are under pressure. As an American, I can say I don’t think we handle the stress of traffic and the individual characteristics quite as well. If you compared this environment to that of New York or Los Angeles, you would hear words that pertain a foul character and see hand gestures that aren’t the nicest.
The love that grew from observing how one held themselves daily as they commuted by walking, running, train, or subway provided a new desire to further investigate the deeper meaning of this empowering and composed city much more than I had the opportunity to at the given moment. The calmness presented makes me want to leap in with an open heart having faith that I too, can be a part of this diverse community. The divine energy is radiant bringing peace because we all come together merging as one going through it all together. Tokyo has opened my eyes to see something I did not think was possible, a reality showing me it is possible to live in a ginormous city that yet feels like a small town. With every path that I had explored or subway/train ridden, I could inherently appreciate a world that in the future I too, can call home. Tokyo at times left me speechless with no words but just love. With that being said, I can only imagine what other hidden gems Japan has.
東京の通りを散策して雑踏にまぎれると、この街は私が思っていた程怖くない。狭い場所に大勢の人がいて、その数に圧倒されるが、そこにいる一人一人にひとりぼっちじゃないだと気づかせてくれる。どの街角に行っても人は大勢いるが、その分自分が求めるものが見つかるチャンスも多い。
東京は街ごとに人それぞれが求める異なる雰囲気をもつ。六本木ヒルズは高所得者層の秩序があり、新宿は光り輝くビルが建ち並び、銀座はショッピング街で、汐留はビジネス街だ。どの街も創造性に富んだ雰囲気をもち、まるでざまざまな画家によって描かれた壁画のようだ。すわって渋谷交差点を眺めていると、日本文化のすばらしいさだけでなく、こんな状況下での日本人の秩序正しさに頭が下がる。アメリカ人である私は、アメリカではこのようなスムーズな人の流れは期待できないし、誰もが混雑にがまんできないだろう。ニューヨークやロサンジェルスであったら、気性の荒い人言葉が聞こえたり、下品は仕草が見られるだろう。
歩いたり、走ったり、電車や地下鉄に乗る日本人の日常生活を観察してわき起こる尊敬の念から、限られた時間以上に時間をかけて東京の秘密を探りたいと思う。ただよう静けさは、心を開いてこの多様なコミュニティの一員になりたいという衝動に私をかりたてる。私たちはみなひとつであり、共に生きる事で平和がもたらされると、神々しい力が降注ぐ。東京を知る事で私の目から鱗が落ちた。可能だとは思えなかったのに、小さな町で暮らすような生活が巨大都市でも可能だという現実を知った。通りを歩きながら、地下鉄／電車に乗りながら、将来私もホームと呼べる世界で暮らすだろう。東京では、時々言葉を失うかわりに、暖かい気持ちにさせられることがある。日本は他にどんなすばらしい秘密を隠し持っているのかと、私は想像をふくらませる。
MUSEUM -What's Going on?-
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26. 2025TOP 30th Anniversary Pedro Costa Innervisions To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, we present Pedro Costa: Innervisions. Representing Portugal, Costa (b. 1958) is internationally acclaimed not only for his cinema but also for exhibitions such as Company (2018, Serralves Museum, Porto) and The Song of Pedro Costa (2022−23, touring Spain).The title pays homage to Stevie Wonder’s 1973 album Innervisions, a formative influence Costa first encountered as a teenager. Wonder’s exploration of the relationship between society and the individual resonates deeply with Costa’s filmmaking practice.Japanese audiences first encountered his work with the theatrical release of In Vanda’s Room (2004), a stark portrayal of a woman from Cape Verde living in Lisbon’s Fontainhas slum. Costa’s cinema is known for its luminous contrasts of darkness and light, its still yet precise compositions, and its salvaging of fragments of everyday reality. |
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Through these, he dissects social structures while uncovering new perspectives.This exhibition focuses on recurring characters such as Ventura, central figures in Costa’s oeuvre, alongside the places they inhabit. It also draws from the museum’s own collection to illuminate Costa’s cinematic world and its sociohistorical dimensions, with Innervisions serving as a guiding motif.Throughout the run, the museum’s first-floor hall will host Carte Blanche, a series of films selected by Costa himself, screened alongside his own celebrated works.We hope this exhibition offers audiences a rare chance to experience the depth and power of Costa’s cinema from new vantage points, and we extend our gratitude to the artist and all who contributed to its realization. |
Period: - Dec. 7, 2025
Venue: The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum
Closed: Mondays (except when Monday falls on a holiday, in which case the museum is open and closed the following day)
Hours: 10:00-20:00 (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: ￥800 / College Students ￥640 / High School Students, Over 65 ￥400 / *Free for junior high school students or younger
For more information, please visit
Film Director Yoshimitsu Morita From his earliest 8mm productions to his commercial debut Something Like It (1981), director Morita Yoshimitsu (1950−2011) remained an independent spirit whose work shaped Japanese cinema from the 1980s onward. Constantly reinventing himself, he moved fluidly across genres―comedy, idol films, literary adaptations, romances, courtroom dramas, horror, mysteries, even jidaigeki period pieces. |
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This exhibition celebrates the full scope of Morita’s creativity. Alongside screenings of his diverse works, it showcases personal items and original film props that reveal the imagination and humor behind the camera. Together, they present a portrait of a director whose restless curiosity pushed him to challenge convention at every turn. |
Period: − November 30 (Sun)
Venue: National Film Archive of Japan
Closed: Mondays & 10/7-12
Hours: 11:00 − 18:30 / − 20:00 on 9/26, 10/31, 11/28 (all Fri) (Last admission: 20:00)
Admission: Regular￥500 / University & College Students ￥300 / Free for Seniors (age 65 or over), High School Students and under 18
Strange but True
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD SEPTEMBER 26. 2025Pillow or Octopus?
Sometimes, curiosity gets the better of us―and in Japan, it got hilariously literal. A woman recently went viral after uploading a video showing her seemingly taking a nap on a live octopus at a seafood market. Yes, you read that right: a squirming, eight-legged creature became her unexpected “pillow.” The video, shot at a bustling market, shows the woman lying down gently, resting her head on the octopus while the curious cephalopod wriggled underneath. Shoppers nearby looked on in equal parts shock and amusement. Social media users quickly dubbed her the “octopus napper,” with comments ranging from laughing emojis to playful warnings about seafood etiquette. While the octopus was unharmed and returned to its tank, the clip captured a rare, absurd moment that perfectly blends Japan’s love for quirky humor with the unpredictability of daily life. Clearly, this is one nap that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
Librarian Cat!
In a charming turn of events, a stray cat has found a forever home―and a career―in a small French town library. The feline, affectionately named Biblio, was officially appointed as the library’s honorary librarian, quickly stealing the hearts of staff and visitors alike. Biblio’s “duties” are as delightful as they are unconventional: roaming the shelves, curling up on reading tables, and occasionally “assisting” patrons in selecting books―mostly by lounging on top of the ones it favors. Social media photos of the cat napping among classics and new releases went viral, turning the library into a must-visit attraction. Library staff say Biblio has boosted attendance, with visitors coming not just for the books but to meet the furry librarian. In a world full of technology and screens, this four-legged helper reminds everyone that sometimes, the best companion for a quiet reading day has paws and whiskers.
Links
Guesthouse Tokyo10 minutes to Ikebukuro. Interhousesafe and accessible solution for your accommodation needs in Tokyo. Sakura House1830 monthly furnished rooms at 204 locations in Tokyo. TOKYO ROOM FINDERContact our international team that will assist you in finding housing and overcoming any communication barriers in Japan! |
J&F PlazaFurnished & unfurnished guesthouses and apartments in Tokyo. May Flower HouseTokyo furnished apartments. Ginza, Roppongi, Yotsuya and more. TenTen Guesthouse33,000yen/30 days for working holiday students. GOOD ROOM TOKYOShare room, Private room, under 50,000yen |
MOVE JAPANPrivate furnished rooms in Tokyo with free internet. Call us first or call us last! Tokyomove.comHassle free moving starts from 6000yen. |
Tokyo Helping HandsVery flexible working hours to effectly help you with moving, deliveries, disposal, storage and more! |
AirNet TravelWe'll cut you the best air ticket deals anywhere. Fun TravelDiscount air travel & package tours 2min from Roppongi Stn. |
No.1 TravelWe go the extra mile for you. International air tickets and hotels. JR Tokai ToursTop-value travel to Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya from Tokyo by Shinkansen. |
Matsuda Legal OfficeAll kinds of Visa, Immigration & Naturalization, International Marriage etc. |
Futaba Visa OfficeLicensed immigration lawyer & certified public tax consultant. |
|
American PharmacyEnglish speaking pharmacy since 1950. |
Tokyo Skin ClinicEU-licensed multi lingual doctors. |
|
Tax-free AKKYJapanese Appliance, Watch, Souvenirs |
Tokyo Speed Dating1st Sat. & 3rd Sun. at Bari n Roppongi ETC. Tokyo SpontaneousPicnic, Parties, Language exchange |
|
TMAJapanese women & Western men. |
|
50 Shades of Yikess
