Plain Talk
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10. 2026Day Care Drama by Higara
One of my worst habits is acting like a baby in high-pressure situations. My habits peak especially when I’m in the wrong.
I’m trying out a couple of day care places (day treatment services in psychiatric hospitals) and I rarely arrive on time for tryouts.
Recently I was asked to join an arts-and-crafts segment at 11 AM. I arrived at 11:45 with a big smile. “ So sorry I’m late,” I chirped at the obviously hassled staff. The kind looking young lady who met me at the entrance warily smiled back and ushered me to the activity area. I clumsily stepped on my shoelaces, causing them to unravel.
“Oh no, my shoelaces are untied.” I pouted like a five year old. “Seems like it,” the lady replied with a tight smile as I dropped down to tie them.
As we entered the room,several staff got up to greet me with confused expressions. “We just finished, and now we are cleaning up.”
“I’m sorry I was late,” I simpered, bowing my head for emphasis.
I just want to notify TNB readers that I’m not putting on a show on purpose. Some weird defense mechanism kicks in and I can’t help behaving immaturely in moments like these. Anyway. Back to day care.
Another woman got up to greet me, apparently she’s in charge of schedule management. I apologize for my tardiness with a sweet smile and she did not smile back. She led me down the hall and stopped in front of the staff room, instructing me to wait. She went in the room and came back with what looked like a planner sheet.
“The next date we are available is the 20th. Would you like to come in at 13:30?”
“I might be late again.” I cocked my head and fluttered my eyelashes.
The woman huffed and her tone became irritable. “How does 14:00 sound?”
“That works for me!” I practically sang.
The woman marked the date on her sheet and retreated to the staff room without saying a word.
I walked back to the entrance feeling embarrassed and hollow. I knew I shouldn’t have been late. And I was ashamed of the childish way I behaved. But I was also hurt by the blunt coldness I received from the woman.
As I stepped into the elevator, walked out of the lobby, and tried to get away from the hospital as fast as I could, I was wondering: will I ever be accepted?
私の最悪な癖の一つは、プレッシャーのかかる状況で子供じみた振る舞いをしてしまうことだ。特に自分が間違っている時ほど、その癖がピークに達する。
今、いくつかのデイケア施設（精神病院の通院治療サービス）の体験利用を試しているのだが、私はめったに実施時間に到着することがない。
最近、午前11時から始まる工作のセッションに参加するよう言われた。11時45分に到着した私は。満面の笑みを浮かべ「遅れてごめんなさい」と、明らかに慌ただしい様子のスタッフに、子供っぽい弾む口で声をかけた。入り口で出迎えてくれた優しい顔立ちの若い女性は、少し警戒したような笑みを返すと、私をアクティビティエリアへと案内してくれた。不器用にも靴ひもを踏んでしまい、ほどけてしまった。
「あら、靴紐がほどけてる。」私は5歳児のようにふくれっ面をした。「そうみたいね」と、私がしゃがんで結び直そうとすると、その女性はぎこちない笑顔で答えた。
部屋に入ると、数人のスタッフが困惑した表情で立ち上がり、私を迎えてくれた。「ちょうど終わったところで、今片付けをしているところなんです。」
「遅れてごめんなさい」私は強調するように頭を下げ、ニャッと笑った。
TNBの読者の皆さんに申し上げておきたいのですが、私はわざと芝居をしているわけではない。何か奇妙な防衛機制が働き、こういう場面ではどうしても子供っぽい振る舞いをしてしまうのだ。ともあれ、保育園の話に戻ろう。
別の女性が立ち上がって私を迎えてくれた。どうやら彼女はスケジュール管理を担当しているらしい。私は愛想よく微笑んで遅刻を謝ったが、彼女は微笑み返してくれなかった。彼女は私を廊下へと案内し、職員室の前で立ち止まると、そこで待つように指示した。彼女は部屋の中へ入っていき、手帳のようなものを持って戻ってきた。
「次のご予約可能な日は20日です。13時30分にお越しいただけますか？」
「また遅れてしまうかもしれません。」私は首をかしげ、まつげをぱちぱちとさせた。
女性は鼻を鳴らし、口調が苛立った。「14時はいかがですか？」
「それなら大丈夫です！」私はほとんど歌い上げるように答えた。
その女性は用紙に日付を記入すると、一言も発することなく職員室へと戻っていった。
私は恥ずかしさと虚しさを感じながら、入り口へと戻った。遅刻してはいけないと分かっていた。そして、自分の子供じみた振る舞いが恥ずかしかった。だが、あの女性から向けられた、あからさまな冷たさにも傷ついていた。
エレベーターに乗り込み、ロビーを出て、この病院から一刻も早く逃げ出そうとしながら、私は考えていた。果たして、いつの日か私は受け入れられるのだろうか？
Plain Talk
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback NOVEMBER 13. 2015Koishikawa Botanical Gardens by Simon Duncan
Koishikawa Botanical Gardens (小石川植物園) are situated in Bunkyo Ward within walking distance of Myogadani Station on the Marunouchi Line or from Hakusan Station on the Toei Mito Line. The history of the garden stretches back to 1684 when shogunTsunayoshi Tokugawa set up a herb garden on this site. In 1877 ownership and management of the gardens was transferred to the University of Tokyo.
Today the gardens are still owned and operated by the University of Tokyo. Entry is 400 yen and the gardens are closed on Monday. Seeing as this is a botanical gardens people may imagine something as picturesque as Shinjuku Gyoen or Kew Gardens in London. To be honest, this is not the most beautiful garden in the world. As it is part of the University of Tokyo you may imagine that you can see the new statue of Hachiko here. Again, sorry, that is not to be found here (try the University of Tokyo, Hongo Campus: http://www.a.u-tokyo.ac.jp/english/campus/keiro-e.html).
So, if there is no dog statue, it's not amazingly attractive and costs 400 yen to enter, why come here? Firstly, it is large and quiet: 40 acres of park land is tough to find within the 23 wards. Also, the entry fee and the fact that it is rarely mentioned in any tourist literature means it is never going to be that crowded. A 10-15 minute walk from the nearest subway stations in a seldom visited part of the city also helps. The second reason to come here, aside from the pleasant, large gardens is for a slice of Tokyo history. Along with the gardens themselves and their long history you can learn about the history of the University of Tokyo, often regarded as the premier educational establishment in Asia.
In a nice setting by a pond that would make a pleasant picnic spot, you can visit a museum dedicated to the history of the medical department of the University, housed in a reconstructed 19th century building. The greenhouse in the gardens is closed for repair at the moment and it is unclear exactly when that will re-open. On the plus side I did find an ice cream vending machine on a recent visit that was fully operational!
For more information regarding opening times etc, please check their website which is available in both English and Japanese:
http://www.bg.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/koishikawa/eng/
For a map from the subway stations please check the following link (only in Japanese):
http://www.bg.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/koishikawa/access/
文京区にある小石川植物園は、丸ノ内線の茗荷谷駅、あるいは都営三田線の白山駅の徒歩圏内にある。小石川植物園の歴史は古く１６８４年に徳川綱吉将軍が、この地にハーブガーデンを開園した事に遡る。１８７７年に東京大学の附属施設となり運営されている。
現在でも小石川植物園は東京大学所管の教育実習施設だ。入園料は４００円で月曜日は休園される。植物園と聞けば、新宿御苑やロンドンにあるキューガーデン（王立植物園）のような絵のように美しい風景を想像するかもしれない。正直に言えば、ここは世界でもまれにみる美しい公園とは言えない。東京大学の施設と聞けば、ここにハチ公の銅像があると思ってしまうかもしれない。でもそれもない。本郷キャンパスのサイトをチェックしてください。
さて、ハチ公もいなければ、すばらししい風景も拝めなければ、４００円も料金を入って入園する価値はあるだろうか。まず、敷地は大きくてとても静かだ。４０エーカーもある公園を都内２３区で見つけようとするとなかなかむずかしい。入園料はかかるが観光客用のガイドブックであまり紹介されていないため、あまり人はいない。駅から歩いて１０－１５分の東京でもあまり足を向けない場所にあるのもいい。次にここに来る理由として、静寂さ以外にも、大きな庭園は東京の歴史のひとコマを伝えてくれる。公園を歩きながら公園の歴史とアジアで一流大学として君臨する東京大学の歴史も学べる。
池のそばの最適なピクニック・スポットに、旧東京医学校本館、総合研究博物館小石川分館がある。１９世紀の建築物は一度解体され、小石川植物園内に再建された。植物園の中央に位置する温室は現在修繕のため中には入れない。いつオープンするかは未定だ。先日アイスクリームの自販機を見つけたが、自販機は動いていた！
詳しくは以下参照。
http://www.bg.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/koishikawa/eng/
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 JULY 10, 2026
Hunt for Hidden Treasures at the Tokyo Romantic Flea Market
Looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or a unique addition to your home? The Tokyo Romantic Flea Market is the perfect place to explore Japan's thriving world of vintage and antique shopping. Held at various venues across Tokyo throughout the year, this popular market brings together collectors, artists and independent sellers offering an eclectic mix of carefully selected items.
Browse stalls filled with vintage clothing, retro toys, antique furniture, ceramics, glassware, books, vinyl records and handcrafted accessories. Many items have fascinating stories behind them, making every purchase feel like discovering a hidden treasure. Whether you're a serious collector or simply enjoy browsing, there's always something unexpected waiting to be found.
The market's relaxed atmosphere encourages visitors to take their time, chat with vendors and appreciate the craftsmanship of both old and contemporary pieces. It's also a great opportunity to support small businesses and local creators while experiencing a different side of Tokyo's shopping culture.
With its blend of nostalgia, creativity and sustainable shopping, the Tokyo Romantic Flea Market offers far more than a typical flea market. It's an enjoyable outing where every stall has the potential to reveal something special―and perhaps the perfect keepsake to take home.
July 12th (Sun) 10:00am - 4:00pm @ Bellesalle Shibuya Garden (Shinsen Sta.)
Experience the Flavours of Taiwan at Ueno Park
Taiwan's vibrant food, culture and hospitality come together once again at the Taiwan Festival in Tokyo's Ueno Park. Held annually, this popular event offers visitors the chance to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Taiwan without leaving Japan.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with stalls serving authentic Taiwanese favourites such as beef noodle soup, xiaolongbao, braised pork rice, oyster omelettes and crispy fried chicken. Sweet treats, including mango shaved ice, pineapple cakes and the ever-popular bubble tea, are also on the menu, bringing the flavours of Taiwan's famous night markets to the heart of Tokyo.
Beyond the food, the festival features traditional music and dance performances, cultural exhibitions, craft workshops and opportunities to learn more about Taiwan's rich heritage. Colourful decorations and lanterns create a festive atmosphere, making it an enjoyable day out for families, friends and anyone curious about Taiwanese culture.
Located in one of Tokyo's most accessible parks, the Taiwan Festival is a wonderful opportunity to discover authentic cuisine, lively entertainment and warm hospitality. Whether you're already a fan of Taiwanese food or trying it for the first time, this colourful event promises a memorable cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
July 12th (Sun) 10:00am - 4:00pm @ Ueno Park (Keisei-ueno Sta.)
Have You Been To...
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10, 2026
Todoroki Valley [Todoroki, Tokyo]
Need a break from Tokyo's bustling streets? Todoroki Valley is the capital's only natural ravine, offering peaceful walking trails, a gentle stream and lush greenery. Just a short walk from Todoroki Station, it's hard to believe you're still in Tokyo. Visit nearby Todoroki Fudoson Temple to complete this refreshing urban escape.
Tsumago-juku [Nagiso, Nagano]
Step back in time at Nakasendo Tsumago-juku, a beautifully preserved post town on the old Nakasendo route. Wooden inns, stone pathways and traditional shops recreate the atmosphere of Japan's Edo period. Stroll the quiet streets and imagine life as travellers experienced it centuries ago.
Sarushima [Yokosuka, Kanagawa]
Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Yokosuka, Sarushima is Tokyo Bay's only natural island. Explore moss-covered tunnels, abandoned military fortifications and peaceful forest trails before relaxing on the beach. It's an easy day trip that combines history, nature and spectacular bay views.
Mifune-yama Rakuen [Takeo, Saga]
Mifune-yama Rakuen in Saga Prefecture is one of Kyushu's hidden treasures. This historic garden is famous for its seasonal beauty, from vibrant spring azaleas to colourful autumn foliage. Peaceful walking paths, scenic ponds and dramatic rock formations make it a wonderful destination throughout the year.
Tokyo Voice Column
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback: SEPTEMBER 30. 2016
How do you think of that? by Mardo
I showed my wife a recent Tokyo Voice Article I wrote on remote controls. After reading it, her first question was “How did you think of that?” My reply, I always think, about everything.
This article was not about who controls the remote or how much more unfit we are now we don’t have to stand up, but about how often we drop them. Weird, right? But me, I always think, about everything. It can be simple things, like what should I bring to a party if Jo is coming instead of Jack (Jack usually makes salad). Or it could be something complex like, can the speed of shadow move faster than the speed of light. Or it could be something worth writing about, no matter how strange, like, How I can understand why Mothra is a Japanese Movie monster after moving to Japan, because some of the moths here are Huge!
Of course it is not always a good thing to think about everything. Especially when you vocalize what you are thinking. E.g. What I can do when you have to work that extra shift, or, now you can go to gym and get back in shape since you were dumped by your loser BF and have time to go again… (no one likes having it implied they’ve put on weight).
All I know is I think all the time, about everything. I am sure this would make me terrible at meditation. that whole clearing your mind of everything idea is not something I have ever been able to do. For me “Thinking about anything” is preferable, and a much better way for me to relax or come up with a solution to a completely different problem.
Maybe I should start my own form of meditation. Free thinking! You just think about random things until you are calm or have an answer. I would use a comfortable chair too, no mats or sitting in strange bendy positions. I could make a fortune with this idea… excuse me, I need to go think about something.
妻に最近載ったリモコンについて書いた自分の記事を見せた。それを読んだ妻が「なんでそんなこと考えるの？」と言うので、僕は、いつもあれこれ考えているんだと答えた。
立ち上がってリモコンを取らなくて済む代わりに、よく落とすようになったと書いた記事だ。変だけども真実じゃない？僕はいつもあれこれ考えてしまう。些細な事について。例えばいつもサラダを持ってくるジャックじゃなくてジョーがパーティに来るなら僕は何を持っていくべきかとか、どうして影は光よりも早く動くのかとか。記事にした事もあった。なぜモスラが日本映画になったのか、日本で生活して気づいたが、日本の蛾が巨大たからだ。
もちろんあれこれ考えるのがいつもいいとは言えない。特に自分の考えを言っちゃいけない時がある。他人が残業をする時に自分が何するかとか、元カレに振られた同僚にジムに行ってシェープアップしたらとか（誰も体重が増えたとか暗に言ってもらいたくない）
あれこれいつも考えてしまう自分をよくわかっている。それはメディテーションをする時には弊害になる。頭を真っ白にするというのは僕にはできっこない。『あれこれ考える』事が僕にとっては望ましいからだ。リラックスできるし別の問題を解決できたりする。
メディテーションの新しいアプローチとして提唱してもいいかもしれない。フリーティンキング方法！ 気持ちが落ち着くまで、答えが見つかるまでさまざまな事に思いを馳せる。くつろげる椅子にゆったり腰かければ、マットはいらないし、身体を曲げた窮屈なポジションも必要ない。お金になるいいアイディアかもしれない....、考え事をしなくちゃいけないので、失礼します。
MUSEUM -What's Going on?-
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10. 2026
Where Great Art Began: The Cafe´ Culture of Paris
Long before artists found inspiration in modern studios, many of the world's greatest masterpieces began with lively conversations in Parisian cafe´s. The exhibition "Artists Gather at the Cafe´ － From the Impressionists to Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and Picasso" explores how these social spaces became the birthplace of new artistic ideas during the late 19th century.
At a time when artists were breaking away from the traditional Salon exhibitions, cafe´s, cabarets and dance halls became places to exchange ideas, challenge conventions and shape the future of art. It was here that artists such as E´douard Manet and the Impressionists gathered, while later figures including Vincent van Gogh and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec captured the vibrant atmosphere of Parisian nightlife in their paintings.
The exhibition also follows this creative spirit to Barcelona, where artist Ramon Casas opened the famous cafe´ Els Quatre Gats ("The Four Cats"). A young Pablo Picasso became a regular visitor, drawing inspiration from the people, conversations and emotions he encountered there. These experiences would influence the works that marked the beginning of his celebrated Blue Period.
*
Featuring around 130 works by Manet, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso and Casas―including Casas' masterpiece Madeleine―the exhibition reveals how cafe´s became more than places to eat and drink. They were creative meeting points where artistic movements were born, friendships flourished and modern art took shape. It is a fascinating journey into the social world behind some of history's most celebrated artists.
Period: - 23 September 2026
Venue: Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum,Tokyo
Closed: Mondays (Except public holiday / 7/27, 8/31)
Hours: 10:00-18:00 / [-20:00 on Fridays, the second Wednesday of each month, July 25, and from September 19 to 23 (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: Adults － 2,300yen / College Students － 1,300yen / High School Students － 1,000yen / Junior High School & Under － free
For more information, please visit
MOT Collection: Art for Starters
The exhibition “Rembrandt the Etcher: His Challenges and His Impact,” held at the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo, offers a detailed exploration of Rembrandt van Rijn’s achievements as a printmaker. Running from 7 July to 23 September 2026 in the museum’s Special Exhibition Wing, it highlights an important yet often overlooked aspect of his artistic career.
Rather than focusing on his well-known paintings, the exhibition centers on Rembrandt’s etchings, engravings, and drypoints, presenting printmaking as a key area of his creative work. Visitors can see how he treated the copper plate as a constantly evolving surface, repeatedly refining his compositions. Through this method, he achieved dramatic contrasts of light and shadow while producing expressive and deeply personal images.
A central theme of the exhibition is innovation. Rembrandt did not consider printmaking secondary to painting; instead, he used it as a space for experimentation and artistic freedom. His willingness to accept imperfections and variations in his prints reflects an inventive approach that anticipates modern artistic ideas.
Rembrandt Harmensz.
van Rijn,A Scholar in His Study
(‘Faust’), c. 1652, Etching,
burin and drypoint,
National Museum of Western Art
The exhibition also examines the broader influence of his prints. Because they could be reproduced and widely distributed, his works reached audiences across Europe, helping to shape the development of printmaking and inspiring future generations of artists.
Overall, it provides valuable insight into Rembrandt’s legacy as both a master painter and a pioneering printmaker.
Period: - 23 September 2026
Venue: The National Museum of Western Art
Closed: Mondays, 21 July (Opens on 20 July, 10 August and 21 September)
Hours: 9:30 - 17:30 / - 20:00 on Fridays, Saturdays (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: Adults 500 yen / College students 250 yen / High school students or younger Free
For more information, please visit
Strange but True
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10. 2026
Mysterious "Potato-Shaped" UFO
The latest batch of U.S. military UFO reports has sparked fresh curiosity after one witness described an unidentified flying object as looking like a shimmering potato. While the unusual description quickly grabbed headlines, officials emphasise that "unidentified" does not necessarily mean extraterrestrial. Many unexplained sightings eventually turn out to be weather phenomena, experimental aircraft or optical illusions. However, some remain unresolved simply because there is not enough evidence to identify them with certainty. Interest in UFOs has surged in recent years, leading governments to investigate sightings more seriously than ever before. Whether the mysterious object has an ordinary explanation or remains an unsolved puzzle, it reminds us that there are still plenty of mysteries in the skies―and people are always eager to discover what they might be.
Can Fake Pills Really Make You Feel Better?
Imagine taking a pill that you know contains no medicine―and still feeling better. Recent research suggests that so-called "open-label placebos" can improve symptoms even when people are fully aware they are taking a fake treatment.
Scientists believe the brain's expectations, daily routines and natural chemistry all play a role. Although placebo pills cannot cure serious illnesses, they may help reduce pain, stress or fatigue in some cases.
The findings highlight the remarkable connection between mind and body. Researchers hope this growing understanding could complement conventional medicine in the future. It is another reminder that our brains can influence our wellbeing in ways we are only beginning to understand.
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 JULY 10, 2026Hunt for Hidden Treasures at the Tokyo Romantic Flea Market
Looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or a unique addition to your home? The Tokyo Romantic Flea Market is the perfect place to explore Japan's thriving world of vintage and antique shopping. Held at various venues across Tokyo throughout the year, this popular market brings together collectors, artists and independent sellers offering an eclectic mix of carefully selected items.
Browse stalls filled with vintage clothing, retro toys, antique furniture, ceramics, glassware, books, vinyl records and handcrafted accessories. Many items have fascinating stories behind them, making every purchase feel like discovering a hidden treasure. Whether you're a serious collector or simply enjoy browsing, there's always something unexpected waiting to be found.
The market's relaxed atmosphere encourages visitors to take their time, chat with vendors and appreciate the craftsmanship of both old and contemporary pieces. It's also a great opportunity to support small businesses and local creators while experiencing a different side of Tokyo's shopping culture.
With its blend of nostalgia, creativity and sustainable shopping, the Tokyo Romantic Flea Market offers far more than a typical flea market. It's an enjoyable outing where every stall has the potential to reveal something special―and perhaps the perfect keepsake to take home.
July 12th (Sun) 10:00am - 4:00pm @ Bellesalle Shibuya Garden (Shinsen Sta.)
Experience the Flavours of Taiwan at Ueno Park
Taiwan's vibrant food, culture and hospitality come together once again at the Taiwan Festival in Tokyo's Ueno Park. Held annually, this popular event offers visitors the chance to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Taiwan without leaving Japan.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with stalls serving authentic Taiwanese favourites such as beef noodle soup, xiaolongbao, braised pork rice, oyster omelettes and crispy fried chicken. Sweet treats, including mango shaved ice, pineapple cakes and the ever-popular bubble tea, are also on the menu, bringing the flavours of Taiwan's famous night markets to the heart of Tokyo.
Beyond the food, the festival features traditional music and dance performances, cultural exhibitions, craft workshops and opportunities to learn more about Taiwan's rich heritage. Colourful decorations and lanterns create a festive atmosphere, making it an enjoyable day out for families, friends and anyone curious about Taiwanese culture.
Located in one of Tokyo's most accessible parks, the Taiwan Festival is a wonderful opportunity to discover authentic cuisine, lively entertainment and warm hospitality. Whether you're already a fan of Taiwanese food or trying it for the first time, this colourful event promises a memorable cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
July 12th (Sun) 10:00am - 4:00pm @ Ueno Park (Keisei-ueno Sta.)
Have You Been To...
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10, 2026Todoroki Valley [Todoroki, Tokyo]
Need a break from Tokyo's bustling streets? Todoroki Valley is the capital's only natural ravine, offering peaceful walking trails, a gentle stream and lush greenery. Just a short walk from Todoroki Station, it's hard to believe you're still in Tokyo. Visit nearby Todoroki Fudoson Temple to complete this refreshing urban escape.
Tsumago-juku [Nagiso, Nagano]
Step back in time at Nakasendo Tsumago-juku, a beautifully preserved post town on the old Nakasendo route. Wooden inns, stone pathways and traditional shops recreate the atmosphere of Japan's Edo period. Stroll the quiet streets and imagine life as travellers experienced it centuries ago.
Sarushima [Yokosuka, Kanagawa]
Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Yokosuka, Sarushima is Tokyo Bay's only natural island. Explore moss-covered tunnels, abandoned military fortifications and peaceful forest trails before relaxing on the beach. It's an easy day trip that combines history, nature and spectacular bay views.
Mifune-yama Rakuen [Takeo, Saga]
Mifune-yama Rakuen in Saga Prefecture is one of Kyushu's hidden treasures. This historic garden is famous for its seasonal beauty, from vibrant spring azaleas to colourful autumn foliage. Peaceful walking paths, scenic ponds and dramatic rock formations make it a wonderful destination throughout the year.
Tokyo Voice Column
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD TNB Throwback: SEPTEMBER 30. 2016How do you think of that? by Mardo
I showed my wife a recent Tokyo Voice Article I wrote on remote controls. After reading it, her first question was “How did you think of that?” My reply, I always think, about everything.
This article was not about who controls the remote or how much more unfit we are now we don’t have to stand up, but about how often we drop them. Weird, right? But me, I always think, about everything. It can be simple things, like what should I bring to a party if Jo is coming instead of Jack (Jack usually makes salad). Or it could be something complex like, can the speed of shadow move faster than the speed of light. Or it could be something worth writing about, no matter how strange, like, How I can understand why Mothra is a Japanese Movie monster after moving to Japan, because some of the moths here are Huge!
Of course it is not always a good thing to think about everything. Especially when you vocalize what you are thinking. E.g. What I can do when you have to work that extra shift, or, now you can go to gym and get back in shape since you were dumped by your loser BF and have time to go again… (no one likes having it implied they’ve put on weight).
All I know is I think all the time, about everything. I am sure this would make me terrible at meditation. that whole clearing your mind of everything idea is not something I have ever been able to do. For me “Thinking about anything” is preferable, and a much better way for me to relax or come up with a solution to a completely different problem.
Maybe I should start my own form of meditation. Free thinking! You just think about random things until you are calm or have an answer. I would use a comfortable chair too, no mats or sitting in strange bendy positions. I could make a fortune with this idea… excuse me, I need to go think about something.
妻に最近載ったリモコンについて書いた自分の記事を見せた。それを読んだ妻が「なんでそんなこと考えるの？」と言うので、僕は、いつもあれこれ考えているんだと答えた。
立ち上がってリモコンを取らなくて済む代わりに、よく落とすようになったと書いた記事だ。変だけども真実じゃない？僕はいつもあれこれ考えてしまう。些細な事について。例えばいつもサラダを持ってくるジャックじゃなくてジョーがパーティに来るなら僕は何を持っていくべきかとか、どうして影は光よりも早く動くのかとか。記事にした事もあった。なぜモスラが日本映画になったのか、日本で生活して気づいたが、日本の蛾が巨大たからだ。
もちろんあれこれ考えるのがいつもいいとは言えない。特に自分の考えを言っちゃいけない時がある。他人が残業をする時に自分が何するかとか、元カレに振られた同僚にジムに行ってシェープアップしたらとか（誰も体重が増えたとか暗に言ってもらいたくない）
あれこれいつも考えてしまう自分をよくわかっている。それはメディテーションをする時には弊害になる。頭を真っ白にするというのは僕にはできっこない。『あれこれ考える』事が僕にとっては望ましいからだ。リラックスできるし別の問題を解決できたりする。
メディテーションの新しいアプローチとして提唱してもいいかもしれない。フリーティンキング方法！ 気持ちが落ち着くまで、答えが見つかるまでさまざまな事に思いを馳せる。くつろげる椅子にゆったり腰かければ、マットはいらないし、身体を曲げた窮屈なポジションも必要ない。お金になるいいアイディアかもしれない....、考え事をしなくちゃいけないので、失礼します。
MUSEUM -What's Going on?-
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10. 2026Where Great Art Began: The Cafe´ Culture of Paris Long before artists found inspiration in modern studios, many of the world's greatest masterpieces began with lively conversations in Parisian cafe´s. The exhibition "Artists Gather at the Cafe´ － From the Impressionists to Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and Picasso" explores how these social spaces became the birthplace of new artistic ideas during the late 19th century. |
* |
Featuring around 130 works by Manet, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso and Casas―including Casas' masterpiece Madeleine―the exhibition reveals how cafe´s became more than places to eat and drink. They were creative meeting points where artistic movements were born, friendships flourished and modern art took shape. It is a fascinating journey into the social world behind some of history's most celebrated artists. |
Period: - 23 September 2026
Venue: Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum,Tokyo
Closed: Mondays (Except public holiday / 7/27, 8/31)
Hours: 10:00-18:00 / [-20:00 on Fridays, the second Wednesday of each month, July 25, and from September 19 to 23 (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: Adults － 2,300yen / College Students － 1,300yen / High School Students － 1,000yen / Junior High School & Under － free
For more information, please visit
MOT Collection: Art for Starters The exhibition “Rembrandt the Etcher: His Challenges and His Impact,” held at the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo, offers a detailed exploration of Rembrandt van Rijn’s achievements as a printmaker. Running from 7 July to 23 September 2026 in the museum’s Special Exhibition Wing, it highlights an important yet often overlooked aspect of his artistic career. |
Rembrandt Harmensz. |
The exhibition also examines the broader influence of his prints. Because they could be reproduced and widely distributed, his works reached audiences across Europe, helping to shape the development of printmaking and inspiring future generations of artists. |
Period: - 23 September 2026
Venue: The National Museum of Western Art
Closed: Mondays, 21 July (Opens on 20 July, 10 August and 21 September)
Hours: 9:30 - 17:30 / - 20:00 on Fridays, Saturdays (admission 30 minutes before? closing)
Admission: Adults 500 yen / College students 250 yen / High school students or younger Free
For more information, please visit
Strange but True
TOKYO NOTICE BOARD JULY 10. 2026Mysterious "Potato-Shaped" UFO
The latest batch of U.S. military UFO reports has sparked fresh curiosity after one witness described an unidentified flying object as looking like a shimmering potato. While the unusual description quickly grabbed headlines, officials emphasise that "unidentified" does not necessarily mean extraterrestrial. Many unexplained sightings eventually turn out to be weather phenomena, experimental aircraft or optical illusions. However, some remain unresolved simply because there is not enough evidence to identify them with certainty. Interest in UFOs has surged in recent years, leading governments to investigate sightings more seriously than ever before. Whether the mysterious object has an ordinary explanation or remains an unsolved puzzle, it reminds us that there are still plenty of mysteries in the skies―and people are always eager to discover what they might be.
Can Fake Pills Really Make You Feel Better?
Imagine taking a pill that you know contains no medicine―and still feeling better. Recent research suggests that so-called "open-label placebos" can improve symptoms even when people are fully aware they are taking a fake treatment.
Scientists believe the brain's expectations, daily routines and natural chemistry all play a role. Although placebo pills cannot cure serious illnesses, they may help reduce pain, stress or fatigue in some cases.
The findings highlight the remarkable connection between mind and body. Researchers hope this growing understanding could complement conventional medicine in the future. It is another reminder that our brains can influence our wellbeing in ways we are only beginning to understand.
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
