【News from the Japanese Archipelago】

post date : 2023.11.13

【Kobe City】National Model United Nations Japan 2022 will be hosted again in Kobe, for the first time since 2016

Kobe City University of Foreign Studies will host the National Model United Nations Japan Conference from November 20 to 26, 2022.

National Model United Nations is the largest Model United Nations conference in the world, and it is the only one that receives full support on multiple levels from the United Nations.

This conference will be hosted in Japan for the second time since 2016.

At this conference, over 300 students from around the world will gather in Kobe and consider what ‘peace’ is through the discussion of various global issues.

[Overview]

- Date: November 20 – November 26, 2022

- Place: Kobe Portopia Hotel

- Conference Schedule:

November 20th: Kobe Tour

November 21st: Cultural Visit (Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum, testimony of Hibakusha atomic bomb survivors)

November 22nd: Cultural Visit (Kyoto: Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine)

November 23rd: Opening Ceremony

November 26th: Closing Ceremony

［Website (in Japanese）］

https://www.kobe-cufs.ac.jp/about/mun/2022kobe.html

［Contact］

Kobe City University of Foreign Studies

Administrative Group

Mail：koho-core@office.kobe-cufs.ac.jp

【Kyoto City】KYOTO MARATHON 2021 Goes Online!

【Now accepting entries form those living outside of Japan!】

Application Period: Until 17:00, Thursday, December 17, 2020
Event Period: From 00:00, Saturday, January 23, 2021To 23:59, Sunday, February 21, 2021 　　　(※Dates and Times shown are Japan Time）
Details: https://www.kyoto-marathon.com/en/
Contact: Secretariat of Kyoto Marathon Executive Committee Ms Yabuki
℡ 075-366-0314

Out of our sincere wish to keep the legacy of KYOTO MARATHON alive despite the uncertainties in the COVID-19 pandemic, we have decided to hold an online marathon to support runners in continuing to take on positive challenges. Though we cannot welcome you all to Kyoto, we are all together in spirit. We want you all to enjoy running 42.195 km in a way you've never done before!

【Kobe City】

A major issue in the age of the novel coronavirus has been reducing the risk of potential infections during testing and treatment. In order to solve this problem, Kobe City is assisting with the social implementation of robot-based PCR testing systems and other related technologies developed by Medicaroid Corporation (Headquarters: Kobe / President: Asano Kaoru).

This promotional video was produced to share with international audiences a forerunning example of this kind of public-private partnership.

〇 Where to Watch

(1) Kobe City official YouTube channel

① Long version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sema7HYKOUE

② Short version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFErIVBNJLI

(2) Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe (FBRI) website

https://www.fbri-kobe.org/kbic/english/movies/#movie02

〇 Contact

Research Division, Biomedical Innovation Cluster and Business Promotion Headquarters

(Mr. Hanafusa, Mr. Nakano)

Email: kobe_mc@office.city.kobe.lg.jp

【Yamanashi Prefecture】Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku” 18^th issue just released

The theme for our 18^th issue is “Beginning with Wine, a journey in search of the charms of Yamanashi”. With focus on Yamanashi’s title as Wine Prefecture this issue shall introduce the people who work hard to publicize the charms of Yamanashi products.

■URL: https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku/vol18.html(information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

【Kyoto City】The 28th Folk Culture Festival: A New Encounter with Rich Cultures

The event aims to provide people with opportunities to experience different cultures of various countries such as North Korea and South Korea, and to learn about diversity in cultures and traditions as well as those differences, which would help people respect different cultures. At the event, projects on international understanding that are carried out at schools in Kyoto City will be presented and various theatre performances including singing and dancing will be staged.

Date: Saturday, February 1, 2020

Time: 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.* (Door opens at 1 p.m.)

*The schedule is subject to change depending on progress of the event.

Venue: Kyoto City Kuretake Culture Center

(Address: 7-35-1 Kyomachi-minami, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City)

Website: https://www.city.kyoto.lg.jp/kyoiku/page/0000261008.html

For inquiries: School Guidance Section, Curriculum and Counseling Department of Kyoto City Board of Education

TEL: 075-222-3815 　FAX：075-231-3117

【Kyoto City】 Nijo-jo Castle Painting Gallery Winter Exhibition in 2019-2020

The Change of the Seasons: Kacho-zu of Roju-no-ma

The murals of the three rooms of the Roju-no-ma in the Shikidai of the Ninomaru-goten Palace will be open to the public in this period. Roju (senior councilors of the Tokugawa shogunate）are said to have attended to their business in the rooms. The three rooms of the Ichi-no-ma (First Room), the Ni-no-ma (Second Room), and the San-no-ma (Third Room) have murals depicting seasonal flowers and birds from spring to summer, in fall, and in winter, respectively. These paintings were reportedly painted by a painter group led by Kano Koi, who is said to have instructed the famous Kano Tan’yu. We hope you enjoy the seasonal tastes expressed in the murals of the respective rooms of the Roju-no-ma: geese gathering on water’s edge covered with green lush reeds in the First Room, geese pecking ears of rice in a stubble field in the Second Room, and herons perching on a willow covered with snow in the Third Room.

■Dates: December 16 (Mon.) through February 16, 2020 (Sun.)

[Closed from Dec. 29 through 31]

■URL: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/introduction/tenji/?lang=en

■Contact: Nijo-jo Castle Office (Tel: +81-75-841-0096　Fax: +81-75-802-6181)

【Yamanashi Prefecture】 A new fish brand in Yamanashi, Fujinosuke.

Yamanashi, a prefecture blessed with famed clear waters leads the nation in terms of aquaculture fresh water fish raising and until have developed fish brands such as Kai Salmon. And now, our prefecture has successfully cross breed for the first time in Japan, a King salmon and rainbow trout. Birthed from the crossbreeding is the Fujinosuke which has now begun circulation.

Once principle characteristic of Fujinosuke is its delicate physique and its well-balanced fat and rich umami taste. Please come to Yamanashi for a taste of the prefectural’s new original aquaculture produced fish!

■URL：https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/kakinousui (information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries：Yamanashi Prefectural Government Flower,Cereal Cultivation and Fisheries Division 055-223-1614

[Akita Prefecture] Is the world overflowing with bad kids?

On the 8th of November, a new poster was revealed for Akita Prefecture.
With the aim of leaving a powerful impression of Akita on people such as those visiting Japan from overseas, a picture of the Namahage, as captured by the French photographer, Charles Fréger, was used.
It is expressive of Akita's refreshing atmosphere and gentle calmness, where one can't help but relax.
The catchphrase "Any bad kids?" adds an element of spice to the poster.
　　　　　

In 2018 the Namahage of Oga were recognized as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage due to being an important time-honored folk tradition. On New Year's Eve the Namahage visit houses across the land and caution against slothfulness, as well as wish for the coming year to be trouble free. The Namahage are like guardian deities of the region.
This poster conveys a message of those Namahage leaping forth from Japan. In the wider world they will admonish people to prevent them from neglecting their duties of working hard solving problems such as conflict, poverty, and disparities such as those between the rich and the poor.
"Any bad kids?" is an English translation of the famous Namahage phrase "Warui ko wa inega?" from Japanese.
The picture of the Namahage used in the poster was taken by Charles Fréger at Akita Prefecture's Oga City. The same picture is featured right at the beginning of Fréger's photo collection, [YOKAI NO SHIMA], and it is one of the most representative works of this collection.
Production of the poster was headed by Mr. Makoto Umehara, who also coined the catchphrase being used to increase Akita's image, "Akita Vision".

An outline of the poster as well as information regarding sightseeing in Akita is currently being presented on the new poster's public relations site [AKITAVISION] (https://www.akitafan.com/akitavision/en/).
There are also many things written about Namahage events and traditions, as well as information regarding various regional differences, so please take a look.

[Contact] Akita Prefectural Government Tourism Strategy Division
Phone: 018-860-1073

【Yamanashi Prefecture】Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku” 17^th issue just released

The local PR magazine, Yamanashi Teku Teku delves into the wonder behind the vast natural resources that each and every area of Yamanshi Prefecture has to offer. It also as serves as a PR magazine that helps display Yamanashi’s unique charm to those outside of the Prefecture and we are now proud to announce the release of the Yamanashi Teku Teku’s 17^th issue!

The theme for our 17^th issue is Exploring the world of Shosenkyo, and introduces both the history of Shosenkyo, as well as the people who helped share the charms of Shosenkyo with the world.

■URL：https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku/vol17.html (in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

【Sendai City】Sendai Experience Program Website Launched

　　　　　　　　 City aims to increase number of tourists and visitor satisfaction with 1,000 activities

Sendai City has launched an initiative based on the “Sendai City Nonresident Population Revitalization Strategy” this fiscal year to create 1,000 experience programs. The city’s goal is to become the No. 1 Experience Program Capital of Japan.

As part of this project, activities highlighting the rich nature and festivals of Sendai/Miyagi, history/culture, sports, food, etc. can be easily added to a visitor’s itinerary whether they come to Sendai for sightseeing, business, or shopping. A dedicated website with various experience programs is now available.

Experience programs and information will be continuously added to the website.

■Opening Date：30 October (Wed)

■Website Access：

　 (1) Sendai Tabisaki Taiken Collection 仙台旅先体験コレクション（Japanese site）

　　 https://sendai-experience.com/ja/

　 (2) See Japan, Experience Sendai Activities（English site）

　　 https://sendai-experience.com/en/

■Website Contents：

Various programs are listed under genres such as “Town Walking,” “Activities,” “Traditional Culture/Japanese Culture,” “Food & Drink,” etc. Users can search for experience programs by area, genre, keyword, etc. The website launched with 166 experience programs on the Japanese website, and 77 on the English website.

■Website Operation and Management

SenTIA (Sendai Tourism, Convention and International Association)

■Photography/Video of Experience Program

For photography or video shooting requests of experience programs listed on the website, as arrangement is necessary with the individual program operators, please contact us.

■Inquiries：SenTIA (Sendai Tourism, Convention and International Association)

TEL：+81-22-302-5808 E-mail：Epro1000@sentia-sendai.jp

【Kobe City】JAPAN-US 6th Annual Medtech & Healthtech Innovation Forum KOBE

■Date：November 8, 2019

■Details：https://www.fbri-kobe.org/kbic/forum/images/top/usflyer_en.pdf

■Contact: Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe

Tel: 078-306-0719　Email: kiki-forum@fbri.org

【Yamanashi Prefecture】Japan Parliamentary World Cup 2019 Welcome reception

In order to introduce to the world the charms of Yamanashi Prefecture, a welcome reception gathering members of national parliaments from all around the world will be held. The schedule is as follows.

■Date: Monday, September 16^th, 2019 from 5.30 pm to 7.15 pm

■Place: Symphony Hall, Kaneyamaen Hotel, 6283 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida

■Organizer: Yamanashi Prefecture

■Highlights:

- Welcome speech and presentation by the governor

- Toast with sparkling wine provided by the prefectural Wine Center

- Traditional breaking of a sake cask

- The menu is provided with ingredients grown in the prefecture

- Several corners will be dedicated to PR: exhibition of regional products, grape tasting, display of a detailed

replica of the 36 views of Mount Fuji, photo booth…

■Participants: about 400 parliament members from 9 different countries

- Argentina, Ireland, England, Australia, Russia, New Zealand, France, South Africa, Japan

- About 50 participants from Japan including the governor, the prefectural assembly, the municipality and

other related institutions

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Olympic and Paralympic Games Promotion Division

TEL:055(223)1545 URL：http://www.linear-museum.pref.yamanashi.jp/english/index.html

【Yamanashi Prefecture】Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku” 16^th issue just released

The local PR magazine, Yamanashi Teku Teku delves into the wonder behind the vast natural resources that each and every area of Yamanshi Prefecture has to offer. It also as serves as a PR magazine that helps display Yamanashi’s unique charm to those outside of the Prefecture and we are now proud to announce the release of the Yamanashi Teku Teku’s 16th issue! The theme for our 16th issue is The Enchanting Mountains of Kai, and introduces not only the Mountains and Nature of Yamanashi but also the history and the various people involved in Yamanshi.

■URL：https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku/vol16.html (information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

【Kyoto City】Kyoto Literature Award - Call for Entries and Screening Members

Kyoto City has established “Kyoto Literature Award” to promote literary world in Kyoto and contribute to reacquainting people with the history and the charms of Kyoto. We call for entries with literary works related to Kyoto. Also, we recruit general readers for screening process.

*Requirements: An unpublished novel in any literary genre which deals with Kyoto and must be written in Japanese language.

*Category and Qualification: There are three categories such as “General”, “Junior High and High School Students” and “Overseas.” An applicant can either be a professional or an amateur writer.

*Award description: The first prizes will be given to one in each category. The first prize winner in the General category will receive a cash of one million yen and a chance for publishing the prized work.

*Period for entry: June 1- September 30, 2019　

*Period for recruiting screening members: June 1- July 31, 2019

Details: https://www.koubo.co.jp/kyoto/

Inquiry: Culture and Arts Planning Section, Kyoto City Culture and Arts City Promotion Office (Secretariat for Kyoto Literature Award Executive Committee)

Tel: 075-366-0033

【Yamanashi Prefecture】

Release of the 15^th Issue of the Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku”

The 15^th issue of the local PR magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku” has been released. The magazine delves into the natural resources that are deeply ingrained in local life, and introduces the charm of Yamanashi to people outside the prefecture. The theme of this issue is “Lighting the Night Sky: The Appeal and Possibilities of Yamanashi’s Fireworks.” It covers the history and features of fireworks in Yamanashi; and introduces pyrotechnicians who continue to challenge themselves.

■URL：https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku15.html (information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

【Sendai City】 The 35^th Sendai Aoba Festival

The Sendai Aoba Festival is held every year on the 3^rd Sunday, and the previous day, of May. A few thousand people will perform the Sendai Suzume Odori (Sparrow Dance) throughout the center of the city along with members playing the Japanese flute and drums creating a joyous atmosphere. On the eve of the main festival, ‘Sendai Yoi Yamaboko’ festival floats decorated with glowing lanterns parade the avenues. At the main festival on the second day, witness the ‘Jidai Emaki Junko’ procession, a parade of heroic samurai warriors and others dressed in traditional historical clothing and the 11 elaborately decorated ‘Yamaboko’ festival floats traverse around the city.

● Date: May 18 (Sat.) - May 19 (Sun.), 2019

● Location: Sendai City Center (Kotodai Park Citizen Square, Jozenji-dori Avenue, Higashi-Nibancho-dori Avenue, etc.)

● Details: https://aoba-matsuri.com/

● Inquiries: Sendai Aoba Festival Association (Tel: 022-223-8441)

【Kyoto City】Press Conference for the Exhibition This Is Japan In Kyoto

(May 16^th,15:00-at Kyoto)

TOKYO FUJI ART MUSEUM will hold a press conference in Kyoto on May16, 2019, on the forthcoming exhibition This Is Japan In Kyoto From The Tokyo Fuji Art Museum (Aug.25^th to Sep.29^th 2019 at the Museum of Kyoto to celebrate ICOM Kyoto2019, the 25^th general Conference of the International Council of Museums).

This exhibition will include masterpieces of Japanese art selected from 30,000 artworks in the collection of the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum. The wide variety of paintings, ukiyo-e, lacquerware, swords and armor, will provide viewers with a opportunity to grasp the historical and cultural multiplicities of Japan.

Date: May 16^th15:00 (reception begins at 14:30)

Venue: Nijo-jo castle

541 Nijo-jo-jo-cho, Horikawa-nishi-iru, Nijo-jo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City

Please send an e-mail titled “Entry for May 16th” by May 14^th

with your name, company name, number of participants, camera(movie/photo), contact address.

http://www.bunpaku.or.jp/exhi_special/schedule/

Inquiry; The Museum of Kyoto (Ms. Isono) koho2006@bunpaku.or.jp TEL:075-222-0835 FAX:075-222-0889

【Sendai City】 The 7th Sendai International Music Competition will be held

The Sendai International Music Competition was established by the City of Sendai in 2001. The Competition consists of two sections, piano and violin, and is highly unique in that it designates the concerto as the center of repertoire. In both sections, the Sendai Philharmonic Orchestra accompanies Contestants after the Semifinal Round.

All rounds can be attended by purchasing a ticket. Please enjoy the delicate melodies and lavish harmonies produced by highly gifted young musicians and orchestra!

■Schedule

　Piano Section

　　Preliminary Round：Saturday, May 25, 2019 － Monday, May 27, 2019

　　Semifinal Round：Friday, May 31, 2019 － Sunday, June 2, 2019

　　Final Round：Thursday, June 6, 2019 － Saturday, June 8, 2019

　　Prizewinners’ Gala Concert：Sunday, June 9, 2019

　Violin Section

　　Preliminary Round：Saturday, June 15, 2019 － Monday, June 17, 2019

　　Semifinal Round：Friday, June 21, 2019 － Sunday, June 23, 2019

　　Final Round：Thursday, June 27, 2019 － Saturday, June 29, 2019

　　Prizewinners’ Gala Concert：Sunday, June 30, 2019

■Venue

　Hitachi Systems Hall Sendai

■For Inquiries

　Secretariat of Sendai International Music Competition

　3-27-5 Asahigaoka, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Pref., 981-0904 Japan

　(Hitachi Systems Hall Sendai)

　TEL: (+81) 22-727-1872 E-mail: info@simc.jp

　Official website: https://simc.jp/en/

【Kawasaki City】The 22nd Exhibition of the Taro Okamoto Award for Contemporary Art

Taro Okamoto was an avant-garde artist who took on new challenges ceaselessly. The Taro Okamoto Award for Contemporary Art was established to honor artists who have inherited Taro’s will to present sharp messages to society based on unfettered ideas and unique viewpoints.

The award, which is now in its 22nd year, attracted 416 solicitations of artwork, and the prize was given to 25 artists. We hope that you enjoy the highly-motivated that explore the possibilities of fine art in the twenty-first century.

Dates:　～ Sunday, April 14,2019

Location: Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki

Website:　http://www.taromuseum.jp/english/index_english.html
Inquiry:　 Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki　Tel: 044-900-9898

【Kyoto City】KYOTO STEAM – International Arts x Science Festival– prologue: Opening Announcement

KYOTO STEAM – International Arts x Science Festival is a novel form of international art and culture event, which benefits from Kyoto’s cultural heritage and resources and takes place in Kyoto in spring 2020. As its pre-event, we welcome you to KYOTO STEAM – International Arts x Science Festival– prologue in Kyoto in March 2019.

https://kyoto-steam.com/en/

【Kawasaki City】 KAWASAKI BAR‐HOPPING

Special collaboration event with Kawasaki's time honored "Kanamara Festival!" Foreign visitors most welcome Bar-Hopping with "Japanese cuisine and Sake" at Kawasaki station east area‼

Geisha Asobi, Samurai Experience, Sumo Wrestler, Japanese Sake and more!

Special entertainment to experience the traditional culture!!

“Kawasaki Kimono Walk”, Kimono dressing service, and “The 5th Kawasaki Cinema Performance Festival” are going to be held on the same day, too.

Date：Sunday, April 7, 2019

Time：From 2pm to 10pm　※It varies according to participation shops

Venue：Kawasaki Station east exit Ogawa-cho area

Reference：CITTA' ENTERTAINMENT CO.,LTD.

Reception hours：Weekdays from 10:00 to 18:30

TEL：044-233-1934　

http://lacittadella.co.jp.e.aan.hp.transer.com/kawasakibar/

https://www.facebook.com/Kawasaki.BarHopping/

【Kyoto City】Accommodation Tax has been introduced from October 1, 2018!

Kyoto City imposes a municipal accommodation tax on all guests staying in Kyoto City from October 1 to increase attractiveness of the city as an international cultural tourism destination and promote tourism. The municipality plans to use the tax revenue to conduct a more balanced method of city planning to make Kyoto a favorable place to live in and to visit.

【Outline of the Accommodation Tax】

Purpose：To allot its revenue to implement initiatives for increasing attractiveness of the city as an international cultural tourism destination and promoting tourism.

How to collect the tax：Guests pay the tax to the lodging businesses and they will pay it to Kyoto City.

Accommodation tax rates：

In case the accommodation fee for a person per night is;

・under 20,000 JPY: 200JPY.

・over 20,000 up to 49,999JPY: 500JPY.

・over 50,000JPY: 1,000JPY

Website: http://www.kyoto-shukuhakuzei.com/

Inquiry: Tax Section of Tax Department, Kyoto City Administration and Finance Bureau

Tel: 075-708-5016

【Akita Prefecture】Akita Prefecture’s Event “Akita Wonderful Festa”

Since the 2016 FY, the Akita Prefectural Office has annually organized events at Tokyo Solamachi, also known as Tokyo Skytree, to offer visitors the chance to interact with the Akita-inu, a world-renowned dog breed. This year’s event will become the new and improved “Akita Wonderful Festa”, and is moving to take place in Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park!

In conjunction with this, there will be a wide range of entertainment offered, including an interactive area with the domestically and internationally famous Akita-inu, as well as many food stalls featuring Akita’s local cuisine, such as Kiritampo Hot Pot, Inaniwa Udon Noodles, Hatahata Sandfish Sushi. There will also be booths featuring traditional crafts from Akita.

You can also see Namahage – newly registered as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage this past November – in person, and be impressed by the dynamic sound of Namahage drums.
Don’t miss out on the chance to sample Akita’s sake, grill mini Kiritampo, and even participate in a stamp collection rally for an amazing prize! There will be fun for all ages, so we will await you at the venue, full of Akita’s appeals!

■Date and Time：Saturday, January 12th, 2019,11:00～17:00

Sunday, January 13th, 2019, 10:00～15:00

*Rain or shine, except in cases of inclement weather.

■ Venue：Yoyogi Park, Event Plaza （2-3 Jinnan, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo）

■ Nearest Stations:

◇ JR Harajuku Station Approx.9 min. on foot

◇ JR Harajuku Station Approx. 11 min. on foot

◇ Tokyo Metro Yoyogi Koen Station Approx. 11 min. on foot

■ Admission Fee：Free

■ Contact Info.：Akita Prefecture Department of Tourism, Culture, and Sports

Akita Food Products Sales Division Tel: +81-18-860-2259

【Yamanashi Prefecture】Release of the 13^th Issue of the Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku”

The 13^th issue of the local PR magazine “Yamanashi TekuTeku” has been released. The magazine delves into the natural resources that are deeply ingrained in local life, and introduces the charm of Yamanashi to people outside the prefecture.

In this issue, the theme is “Experience the World of Jean-Francois Millet’s Masterpieces.” It covers the life and work of Millet; as well as the contributions and work of the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, which has come to be known and loved as the “Millet Museum,” and the curators of the museum.

■URL：http://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku.html (information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

[Shizuoka Prefecture] ‘SHIZUOKA’ Attraction Release Project ～Mt.FUJI x TOKAIDO～

The Shizuoka Prefectural Office is going to carry out the release of
‘Shizuoka Culture’, ’Shizuoka Craftsmanship’
and ‘Shizuoka Cuisine’ in Paris, in accordance with “Japonismes 2018”
The theme of the project is “Mt. Fuji and Tokaido (an old route connecting
Edo to Kyoto)”.

Japonismes 2018 Official Program Performing Arts ― SPAC(Shizuoka Performing
Arts Center)
Title : “ Mahabharata – Nalacharitam “
Period : Nov. 19 ― 25, 2018 (no performance on Nov. 22)
Venue : La Grande Halle, La Villette

“ Shizuoka Culture ”
●SHIZUOKA Attraction Release Project ～Mt.Fuji x TOKAIDO～
Period : Nov. 19 ― 25, 2018
Venue : La Grande Halle, La Villette
●TOKAIDO Marche
Period : Nov. 24 ― 25, 2018
Venue : UNIQLO le Marais

“ Shizuoka Craftsmanship ” / “ Shizuoka Cuisine ”
●“The Blessing of Mt. Fuji” ― SHIZUOKA FOOD FAIR
Period : Nov. 1 ― 30 (closed on Mondays)
Venue : UMAMI Matcha Café
●“The Flavor of Shizuoka Green Tea”
Period : Nov. 6 ― 21 (closed on Mondays)
Venue : Patisserie TOMO
●“Shizuoka Craftsmanship” (Display and Sales of Traditional Craftworks)
Period : Nov. 19 ― 24
Venue : JUNKUDO Book Store Paris

http://spac.or.jp/news/?p=14636

【Contact details for inquiries】
Culture and Tourism Department of Shizuoka Prefectural Government
TEL +81-54-221-3340 FAX +81-54-221-2827 E-mail : arts@pref.shizuoka.lg.jp

[Chiba Prefecture] Chiba Prefecture Local Specialty Shop "Chiba I・CHI・BA”, Open for a Limited Time!

A shop selling specialty items from Chiba Prefecture will open for a limited time at “KITTE”, Marunouchi, Tokyo, for the fourth time this year.

Including selling the best specialty products, there will also be several events such as tourism promotion by local mascots, CHI-BA+KUN Day, etc. This is going to be a shop full of Chiba’s charms.

Highly recommended products this year are the “Negippe Gyoza (green onion dumpling)” which uses Honno green onion, an indigenous product of the region, and the “Minamitei Fromage” which uses milk and Nanohana Eggs from Miyoshi Village.

Be sure to drop by!

◆Major Events during this Period

　※ Opening Event, Sat, November 17: Chiba Prefecture specialties to the first 50 people

　※ CHI-BA+KUN Day, Sat, December 1: Photo session with CHI-BA+KUN, Free gift

- Period : Sat, November 17 – Sat, December 15, 2018, 9:00 - 19:30

- Place : “Tokyo City i”, Performance Zone

(B1F KITTE JP Tower 2-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)

- Access : 1 minute walk from JR Tokyo Station Marunouchi South Gate, Directly connected with Tokyo Metro Tokyo Station from the underground passage

- URL : http://chibaichiba.jp/

- Inquiries : Tourism Planning Division, Chiba Prefecture TEL: 043-223-2415

[Kawasaki City] Kawasaki Jazz Festival 2018

This year, Kawasaki Jazz Festival brings you something special. A variety of guests, from great masters to new artists who attract rising attention, will join the stage. Featuring an interesting collaboration between Hatsune Miku, a virtual idol that uses vocaloid software, and the famous legend Jazz pianist Masahiko Sato, this music festival will be centered on jazz with some cross-genre aspects.

In order to attract a diverse range of generations to the Kawasaki Jazz Festival, the program includes a variety of music from big band performances to music showcasing jazz history. We plan to bring you a Jazz Festival with energetic performances that will send good vibes throughout the entire performance area.

Free live performances will be held in several other places in the city.

■Date: Thursday, November 8 to Sunday, November 18

■Location: MUZA Kawasaki Symphony Hall and Shin-Yuri 21 Hall, among many other venues around Kawasaki

■Details: https://kawasakijazz.jp/

■Inquiries* Kawasaki Jazz 2018 Executive Committee Office

ＴＥＬ：044-223-8623 　ＦＡＸ：044-544-9647

Citizens’ and Cultural Affairs Promotion Office, Citizens’ and Cultural Affairs Bureau, Kawasaki City

ＴＥＬ：044-200-3725　ＦＡＸ：044-200-3248

[City of Yokohama] The 7^th Asia Smart City Conference in Yokohama

The City of Yokohama, designated as an “SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) Future City”, promotes the Y-PORT (Yokohama Partnership of Resources and Technologies) project, which is an international technical cooperation project through a public-private partnership that harnesses Yokohama’s technology and know-hows to contribute to the emerging countries.

As a part of this project, the Yokohama city hosts the “Asia Smart City Conference” as a place for Asian city leaders, private sectors, and international organization experts to gather and share urban development expertise. Participants will discuss sustainable urban development as a way to achieve both economic development and good urban environment.

This year’s 7^th conference will be held with the support of the World Bank (Tokyo Development Learning Center) and the Asian Development Bank Institute. Around 30 Asian cities will be participating.

Overall theme: Fostering a Marketplace for Co-innovation - Facing challenges in creating smart city projects and incorporating game-changing technologies –

The impact of new exponential technologies such as AI and big data on cities will be discussed, as well as essential topics including waste and sludge treatment, energy saving, and low carbon transport systems. ASCC will aim to create pilot projects which realize urban Smart City solutions in Asia by providing a forum where diverse participants can network and take part in cross-cutting discussions on urban development.

In addition, we will share the results of the ASCC discussions with other international forums related to the SDGs, ESG (Environment Social Governance) investment, and SRI (Socially responsible Investment).

[Overview]

<Date> 2018/11/13（TUE）～2018/11/15（THU）

*DAY1 (13 Nov) is reserved for overseas participants.

<Schedule>

*13 Nov（TUE）

Site visit showcasing smart city development in Yokohama

Cocktail Reception hosted by World Bank

*14 Nov（WED）

Thematic session a.m. (The 4 meetings will run simultaneously)

Theme 1: Water and waste

Theme 2: Transportation and mobility

Theme 3: Energy efficiency

Theme 4: Disaster resilience

Networking Lunch

Thematic session p.m.

Theme 5: Urban infrastructure provision for smart cities

Theme 6: Utilizing big data/ open data for land development

Theme 7: Retooling manufacturing and industrials

Theme 8: Citizen engagement through smart technology

Welcome Reception

*15 Nov (THU)

Panel Discussion

Capstone 1 on Integrated Urban Development

Capstone 2 on Exponential Technologies

Networking Lunch

Plenary

<Co-located Events>

Yokohama Info-Market（10:00-16:00 14 Nov, 9:30-14:00 15 Nov）
Business Forum (10:30-12:30 14 Nov)
Youth Event 2018 (14:00-16:30 14 Nov)

<Venue> Intercontinental Yokohama Grand hotel 3^rd floor (1-1-1 Minato-Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama)

(Five minutes from Minatomirai Station on foot.)

<Entrance fee> Free

<Contact information>

7^th Asia Smart City Conference Management Office

Development Cooperation Division, International Affairs Bureau, City of Yokohama

Tel:+81-45-671-4703 Fax:+81-45-664-7145 Email:ki-ascc@city.yokohama.jp

<More information> http://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/kokusai/yport/en/ascc/

[Saitama Prefecture]

Saitama Wabi Sabi Festival 2018: Join Us for a Weekend of Cultural Fun!

Join us at the Saitama Wabi Sabi Festival 2018, a celebration of Japanese culture in Saitama! The festival will feature a variety of cultural traditions, including performing arts, music, bonsai, flower arrangement, the tea ceremony, Takigi-noh (Noh play performed at night by a fire) and local cuisine. Feel free to invite your friends and enjoy a weekend of cultural fun!

We hope this festival will provide a great opportunity for everyone to experience many different aspects Saitama's culture conveniently gathered in one place.

Entry to the festival is completely free! Enjoy all kinds of spectacular performances by globally known artists on a special festival stage at Omiya Park. You can also experience an outdoor tea ceremony and cultural workshops for bonsai, kimono, calligraphy, flower arrangement, taiko drumming, Japanese papermaking, and more! (Please note that some workshops require advance registration or participation fees. If there is a workshop you are interested in attending, we recommend making a reservation as soon as possible.　Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to experience authentic local and national culture!

When?: October 13 (Sat), 10:00-19:30, October 14 (Sun), 10:00-16:00

Where?: Omiya Park (near Hikawa Shrine) etc...
Cost: Free! (Some workshops require a participation fee.)
Website: https://saitama-wabi-sabi-2018.jp/

[Kyoto City] World Masters Games 2021 Kansai to be held in Kyoto City!

World Masters Games (WMG) is an international multi-sport competition for any athletes over the age of 30 to participate, hosted by the International Maters Games Association (IMGA) every four years. It is held in a year after every Olympic Games, and the first WMG was held in Toronto, Canada in 1985. The latest one was held in Auckland, New Zealand in 2017. The next WMG 2021 will mark its 10^th anniversary, and it will be held in Japan as its first attempt in Asia. Kansai, the west part of Japan is selected as the venue.

Kyoto City will host events for Truck and Field, Badminton, Squash, and Karate as well as the Opening Ceremony of WMG 2021 Kansai.

■Period: 14 -30 May, 2021

■Official website: https://wmg2021.jp/en/

■Inquiry: World Masters Games 2021 Kansai Executive Committee of Kyoto City

(Secretariat: Sports Promotion Office, City of Kyoto)

Tel：075-366-0168　Fax：075-213-3303

【Akita Prefecture】Large-Scale Autumn Tourism Campaign “Akita, Rich with Autumn Appeal”

Starting this upcoming September through November, the Akita Prefectural Government plans to execute a large-scale tourism campaign in cooperation with respective municipalities in the prefecture, East Japan Railway Company (JR East), and other tourism agencies. For many generations, locals have been cultivating Akita’s charms, spreading them both within and beyond Japan’s borders. With its lush nature, local delicacies, and hot springs, every Akita citizen would like to welcome you all to our prefecture with open arms.

■Campaign Period: Saturday, September 1 ~ Friday, November 30th ( spanning for 3 months), 2018

■Campaign Area: Throughout Akita

■Campaign Catch Phrase: “Aki no Saku Saku Akita” (“Akita, Rich with Autumn Appeal”)

※ This has been planned in the hope that visitors will be able to fully experience a wide range of what Akita has to offer, such as strolling amidst the beautiful autumn leaves, soaking in hot springs, or appreciating its magnificent nature, art and culture.

■HP：https://www.pref.akita.lg.jp/pages/archive/36286

■Contact Info. : Tourism Promotion Division, Department of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, Akita Prefecture

( +81-18 -860-2261)

【Kawasaki City】 Anniversary of the Renewal of the “Tower of the Sun”

Taro Okamoto in the Town - The World of Public Art

In his multifaceted career as a modern artist, Taro Okamoto created over 140 works of art such as monuments and murals, which have been displayed in 70 public spaces such as parks and schools throughout Japan. Okamoto strongly believed that his art should not be owned by individuals and therefore continued to place his creations in public spaces so that they can be seen by everyone. Moreover, he believed artwork should not exist for the sake of art and should be widely accessible in our daily life, and that art plays a significant role in connecting society as it invokes a range of feelings and emotions.

This exhibition commemorates the recent renewal of the “Tower of the Sun”, which was constructed for EXPO70, as well as appreciating the public art that Okamoto has created for our society throughout his life. In addition, this exhibition is set to introduce a variety of Okamoto’s works that have been placed around Japan, such as those he made from mosaic tiles in the early stages of his career as well as original molds, drawings, sketches and pictures of the “Tower of the Sun” on display in Senri, Osaka, and the “Myth of Tomorrow” on display in Shibuya.

Dates: ～ Monday, September 24,2018

Location: Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki

Website: http://www.taromuseum.jp/
Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki　Tel: 044-900-9898

[Chiba Prefecture] Para Sports Festa Chiba 2018

Chiba Prefecture, host to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic, will hold “Para Sports Festa Chiba 2018” this September. The event will give guests the opportunity to experience Paralympic sports.

Focusing on the four games that will be held in Chiba, participants can take part in seven different activities and watch impactful performances by athletes.

Matching the theme of “Red vs White Intrasquad Para Sports Games,” this event will have many activities with Red vs White team competitions, including individual matches and cheering battles.

Date: Saturday, September 8, 2018, 9:00-17:00
Place: Chiba Port Arena (Chuo Ward, Chiba City)
Access: 8 min walk from Shiyakushomae Station on the Chiba Urban Monorail, 16 min walk from Chiba Station on the JR Sobu Line, 15 min walk from Chibaminato Station on the JR Keiyo Line, 12 min walk from Chibachuo Station on the Keisei Line
Entry Fee/Admission Fee: Free
URL : https://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/oripara/pre-camps/hukyu/20180810parafesuhodo.html (In Japanese)

Inquiries: Training Camp and Athletics Support Division, Chiba Prefecture TEL: 043-223-2442

International Affairs Division, Chiba Prefecture TEL: 043-223-2436

Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games – The 4 games which will be played in Makuhari-Messe, Chiba Prefecture

Goalball／Sitting Volleyball／Para-Taekwondo／Wheelchair Fencing

[Chiba Prefecture]
XVI WBSC Women’s Softball World Championship 2018 in Chiba, Japan

The Women’s Softball World Championship will be held in Japan for the first time in 20 years.

National teams from 16 countries and regions, the champions of qualifying rounds on each continent, will engage in fierce competition here in Chiba Prefecture.
This is a great chance to watch world-class play as a preliminary competition of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Be sure to check out the venue!

Date: Thursday, August 2 to Sunday, August 12, 2018
Participating Teams: [Africa] Botswana, South Africa

[Asia] China, Chinese Taipei, Philippines

[Europe] Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands

[Americas] Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, USA, Venezuela

[Oceania] Australia, New Zealand

[Host country] Japan

Venues: ZOZO Marine Stadium (Mihama-ku, Chiba City), NASPA Stadium (Narita City) , Dai-Ichi Cutter Stadium [Akitsu Stadium] (Narashino City) and Zett. A. Ball Park (Ichihara City)

Inquiries: WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation)
http://www.wbsc.org/tournaments/2018-womens-softball-world-championship/

International Affairs Division, Chiba Prefecture
TEL: 043-223-2436

[Chiba Prefecture] Ladybugs as Pest Control

Plant diseases and pest control present big challenges for farming families in Chiba, the nation’s leading prefecture for agricultural.

The Chiba Prefecture Agricultural Collage, based on research from prefectural high school students, developed a technology for pest control using ladybugs and has started to market the technology.

The process consists of propagating ladybugs, using resin on their wings to make them temporarily flightless, and releasing them into agricultural fields. As they prey on aphids, the aphids are naturally exterminated from the fields. The resin wears off in approximately two months and the ladybugs, able to fly again, return to nature which means the technology ecologically conscientious.

Furthermore, combining insects with microbial insecticide, the Collage has also developed a new technology in which insects themselves deliver insecticides.

Responding to the expectations of local farmers, Chiba Prefecture is promoting the development of safe pest control that is neither hazardous to agricultural products or to peoples’ health.

URL： https://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/noudai/contents/tentrol.html

Inquiries:

Chiba Prefecture Agricultural Collage 0475-52-5121

International Affairs Division，Chiba Prefecture 043-223-2436

[Chiba Prefecture] Study Abroad Students and Foreign Residents Appointed as “CHI-BA+KUN Ambassadors”

Twenty foreign exchange students and residents, from different areas of Chiba Prefecture, representing 10 countries will officially be appointed as Ambassadors this year. The CHI-BA+KUN Ambassadors promote Chiba Prefecture’s many attractions—tourist spots, delicious cuisine, and the cultural differences they experience in Chiba—in their native languages through blogs and other social media.
The project began in 2011. You can read more about the CHI-BA+KUN Ambassadors on Chiba Prefecture’s website.
＊URL: http://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/kokusai/english/information/residents/ambassadors.html
＊The official program name for the “CHI-BA+KUN Ambassadors” is the “Ambassadors to Spread Chiba Prefecture’s Charm to the World Together with CHI-BA+KUN”
◇ Appointment Ceremony (* Press only)
Date: Tuesday June 12, 2018, 11:10-12:00
Place: Chiba Prefectural Auditorium (1st floor)
(1-1 Ichibacho, Chuo-ku, Chiba City)
◇ Ambassadors’ home country/area (number of people)
　 China (4), USA (4), Vietnam (3), Indonesia (2), Taiwan (2), Nepal (1),
Sri Lanka (1), Thailand (1), Korea (1), Russia (1)

◇ Inquiries:
Chiba Prefecture, International Affairs Division
TEL: 043-223-2436 E-mail: kokusai@mz.pref.chiba.lg.jp

【Kawasaki City】Photography by Okamoto Taro: For the sake of thought (～ Sunday, July 1,2018)

In addition to being one of the most prominent artists of Post-World War II Japan, Taro Okamoto also took a wide variety of photographs.

The photographs taken by Okamoto feature the reality of the postwar aftermath and the quest to reestablish the origins of Japan. The images of children, landscapes, houses, festivals, animals, gardens and boundaries are presented through Okamoto's artistic interpretation and often express emotions that cannot be conveyed with words. This exhibition was created to display his key photographs which feature images and motifs he developed, and to understand his focal points. In doing so, the viewer is able to experience the essence of Okamoto's unique style and artistic talents in a different media.

Dates: ～ Sunday, July 1,2018

Location: Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki

Website: http://www.taromuseum.jp/

Inquiry: Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, Kawasaki　Tel: 044-900-9898

【Yamanashi Prefecture】The Charms of Yamanashi – Digital Booklets Available Now on Prefectural Homepage

In order to spread word of the many local charms of Yamanashi Prefecture, we have dedicated a section of the prefecture’s homepage to a series of digital booklets uncovering the roots of these charms. For those hoping to learn more about the hidden secrets of the prefecture, the first two digital booklets have been made available in English: Colorful Landscapes: Yamanashi Flowers and The Insider’s Guide: Proud to be in Yamanashi.

We hope you enjoy. Links are included below.

The Insider’s Guide: Proud to be in Yamanashi

Detailing lesser-known facts about the prefecture and coupled with pictures and explanations that make for a fun read!

Colorful Landscapes: Yamanashi Flowers

Introducing the landscapes and flowers of the prefecture in cooperation with regions across the prefecture.

English URL: http://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/foreign/index.html

Japanese URL: http://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/trivia.html

Questions? Contact Us: 055-223-1337

Yamanashi Prefecture

Strategic Policy Planning Department

Public Relations Division

【Chiba Prefecture】Registration Now Open for ‟Chiba Aqualine Marathon 2018!”

Chiba Prefecture will hold the “Chiba Aqualine Marathon 2018”on Sunday, October 21, 2018. As part of the course, runners will cross over the “Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line.”

The “Chiba Aqualine Marathon 2018” aims to be memorable event for all those involved including runners, onlookers, and volunteers by creating a chance for people from both inside and outside Japan to experience Chiba hospitality and attractions.

Applications will be accepted online from Friday, April 13 at 12:00 pm to Tuesday, May 8 at 5:00 pm.

We are expecting many entries!

■ Official Home Page

Japanese: http://chiba-aqualine-marathon.com/2018/

English: http://chiba-aqualine-marathon.com/2018/en/

Simplified Chinese: http://chiba-aqualine-marathon.com/2018/scn/

Traditional Chinese: http://chiba-aqualine-marathon.com/2018/tcn/

■ Inquiries

Chiba Aqualine Marathon Planning Committee Office

Telephone: 043-223-4107 E-mail: aqua-run@pref.chiba.lg.jp

The 7th Sendai International Music Competition is scheduled to be held in May and June 2019

The Sendai International Music Competition was established by the City of Sendai in 2001 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the foundation of the city. The Competition consists of two sections, piano and violin, and is highly unique in that it designates the concerto as the center of repertoire. Since 2005, the Competition has been a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions and has a high reputation for being the first step to a successful career for young musicians.

Competition Dates
Piano Section: Saturday, May 25, 2019 － Sunday, June 9, 2019
Violin Section: Saturday, June 15, 2019 － Sunday, June 30, 2019

Venue
Hitachi Systems Hall Sendai (Sendai City Youth Cultural Center)

Jury
Our Jury is made up of 22 international musicians and educators, to provide rigorous adjudication.
Piano Section Jury
Chairperson: NOJIMA Minoru (JPN)
Vice-Chairpersons: UEDA Katsumi, Matti RAEKALLIO (FIN)
Members: Michel BÉROFF (FRA), Andrea BONATTA (ITA), Richard DYER (USA), Vadym KHOLODENKO (UKR), KIM Daejin (KOR), NODAIRA Ichiro (JPN), Michael SCHÄFER (GER), Oxana YABLONSKAYA (USA/ISR)
Violin Section Jury
Chairperson: HORIGOME Yuzuko (JPN)
Vice-Chairpersons: HORI Masafumi (JPN), Boris BELKIN (BEL)
Members: Olivier CHARLIER (FRA), Rodney FRIEND (GBR), KATO Tomoko (JPN), Younguck KIM (USA), Cho-Liang LIN (USA), Joel SMIRNOFF (USA), Isabelle VAN KEULEN (NED), and one other (11 total)

Application
Application Period: From June 14, 2018 through November 14, 2018
Eligibility: Open to candidates of all nationalities born on or after January 1, 1991.

Organizers
Sendai International Music Competition Organizing Committee, City of Sendai, Sendai Cultural Foundation

For Inquiries
Secretariat of Sendai International Music Competition
3-27-5 Asahigaoka, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyai Pref., 981-0904 Japan
(Hitachi Systems Hall Sendai)
TEL: (+81) 22-727-1872 E-mail: info@simc.jp
Official website: http://simc.jp/en/

【Niigata City 】26^th Annual Shoku no Jin Food Festival

Three Days of Niigata’s Most Delicious Foods in One Place

For the three days of this year’s Shoku no Jin Food Festival, approximately 80 restaurants will be serving an array of fan favorites such as sushi, sake, and other dishes that Niigata prides itself on. The Shoku no Jin Food Festival is a part of the bigger Niigata Winter Shoku no Jin (Food Campaign). All winter long, participating eateries around the city serve special dishes for the campaign at their restaurants and then bring them, along with other dishes, to one of the locations of this 3-day festival.

◆When: Saturday, February 10– Monday, February 12, 2018

10am – 5pm* (Monday until 4pm*)
*While supplies last

◆Where: 1. Furumachi Mall (5, 6, & 7 Bancho)
2. Bandai City Park (Bandai City Bus Center Building 2^nd fl)
3. Niigata Furusato Mura

◆Contact

Niigata City Tourism and International Affairs Department Tourism Policy Division

TEL: 025-226-2608

*See the event website for more details.

(URL) http://www.shokuno-jin.com/ (Website available in Japanese only)

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【Kawasaki City】Opening of the Kawasaki International Eco-Tech Fair 2018! (Feb. 1^st, 2^nd)

We are pleased to announce that Kawasaki city will host “Kawasaki International Eco-Tech Fair 2018”, with the goal of spreading awareness throughout the global community regarding the world-class environmental technology possessed by its businesses/other organizations and helping to open new markets/sales channels for exhibitors and visitors while serving as a unique networking opportunity for all involved. As well as booths from both national and international companies and businesses, there will also be a variety of events such as a panel discussion with simultaneous interpretation to commemorate the 10^th anniversary of this event, and an exhibition etc. featuring the “De Lorean” from the “Back to the Future” franchise.

■ Date and Time: February 1^st (Thurs), 2^nd (Fri) 2018

■ Venue: Todoroki Arena, Kawasaki City (1-3, Todoroki, Nakahara Ward)

■ Details: http://www.kawasaki-eco-tech.jp/english/index.html

■ Point of Contact: Kawasaki International Eco-Tech Fair Organizing Committee Secretariat (c/o International Economic Affairs Office, Economic and Labor Affairs Bureau, Kawasaki City)

Tel: 044-200-2313 　Fax: 044-200-3920

[Chiba Prefecture] The site of the Jomon Era “Kasori Shell Mounds” has been

designated as a national “Special Historical Site”

“Kasori Shell Mounds” (Chiba city), which shows people’s life and culture during the Jomon Era, are the first shell mounds in Japan to be designated as a national “Special Historical Site.” The Kasori Shell Mounds are a set of ruins from the mid to late Jomon Era (approx. 5,000 to 3,000 years ago) and among about 2,400 other Jomon Era ruins, they are known as one of the largest “Mura Shell Mounds.” Mura Shell Mounds commonly held the villages of ancient people. In the Chiba City Kasori Shell Mounds Site Museum, excavated cross-sections of the shell layer are exhibited using a special preserving method. The displays of Jomon pottery, stone tools, as well as animal, fish and human bones explain how people lived around Kasori shell mounds. A variety of programs including pottery making are offered on site. The Kasori Shell Museum welcomes you to experience the Jomon Era!

○Inquires：Chiba City Board of Education Office Lifelong Learning Department

Cultural Education and Properties Division

Telephone：043-245-5960

○URL：https://www.city.chiba.jp/kyoiku/shogaigakushu/bunkazai/kasorikaizuka/top.html

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【Sendai City】Ruins of the Great East Japan Earthquake: Sendai Arahama Elementary School have been opened to the public.

It is Sendai city’s goal to never again let people fall victim to tsunami, to pass on the lessons we have learned, and to convey the real threat of tsunami to future generations. For these reasons, the ruins of the Arahama Elementary School building, along with other records, will be preserved, and opened to the public.

Please see the following websites for more information:

■Ruins of the Great East Japan Earthquake: Sendai Arahama Elementary School (SENDAI Towards a Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City Website)

http://sendai-resilience.jp/news/detail---id-118.html

■Ruins of the Great East Japan Earthquake: Sendai Arahama Elementary School (Sendai City Official Website)

http://sendai-resilience.jp/en/efforts/government/information/preservation.html

■Brochure　about　Ruins　of　the　Great　East　Japan　Earthquake:　Sendai　Arahama　Elementary　School (PDF：1,487KB) (Sendai City Official Website）

http://www.city.sendai.jp/kankyo/shisetsu/documents/201704_arahamaa4.pdf

○Inquiries: Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City Promotion Office, City of Sendai

Telephone: +81(0)22-214-8098

Fax: +81(0)22-214-8497

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【Chiba Prefecture】A Digital Pamphlet for Visitors to Japan

Chiba Prefecture has made a digital pamphlet highlighting 30 travel routes and nearly 250 tourism sites within the prefecture that have been made popular through social media. Facing the Tokyo Olympic Paralympic Games and the growing number of tourists from abroad, the guide aims to increase tourism within the prefecture.

The pamphlet introduces a wide variety of popular locations within Chiba Prefecture including routes for Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and the surrounding area, Sawara City’s Edo Townscape, Katori-jingu Shrine, and routes filled with the nature wonders of Minamiboso.

The Digital Pamphlet can be found here:

English: http://japan-chiba-guide.com/en/digital-pamphlet.html

Thai: http://japan-chiba-guide.com/th/digital-pamphlet.html

Inquiries: Chiba Prefecture Tourism Planning Division

TEL: 043-223-2415 FAX: 043- 225-7345

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【Sendai City】Sendai DRR Newsletter Vol.1&2 Has Been Issued.

Having experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, Sendai City once again realized that cities are exposed to a variety of disaster threats. Based on the lessons learned from this disaster, The City of Sendai is proceeding to build a ‘Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City,’ which will be prepared for threats from future disasters and climate changes.

Sendai City issues a Sendai DRR Newsletter to share experiences and lessons from the Great East Japan Earthquake experienced in Sendai and the Tohoku region, convey measures for preventing and mitigating disasters by various stakeholders, and introduce the initiatives that Sendai is implementing in its efforts to become a ‘Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City.’

You can find the first and the second edition of the newsletter below.

Please see the following websites for more information:

Newsletter Vol.1 (pdf file)

Newsletter Vol.2 (pdf file)

Towards a Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City

○Inquiries: Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally-Friendly City Promotion Office, City of Sendai
Telephone: +81(0)22-214-8098 Fax: +81(0)22-214-8497

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【Chiba Prefecture】The Charm and Attraction of Chiba in Video

As the prefecture looks forward to the Tokyo Olympic Paralympic Games, Chiba Prefecture has released a second installment of the "Chiba Prefecture Image Enhancement Video" in an effort to increase the number of international tourists and entice international training camps to visit Chiba.

The video introduces the allure of Chiba Prefecture by expressing the seasonal wonders of the prefecture with dynamic aerial footage including the "2016 Chiba Aqualine Marathon" and "Byobuga-ura Cliffs."

Both the 30sec and 2min versions of the video can be found on the Chiba Prefecture Homepage.

○Chiba Prefecture Image Enhancement Video

http://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/kouhou/miryoku/fujisan/imageup2nd.html

○Inquiries: Chiba Prefecture Press and Public Relations Division TEL: 043-223-2265 FAX :043-227-0146

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【Kawasaki City】The Japan Open Air Folk House Museum introduces a multilingual audio guide

The majority of houses on exhibit at the Japan Open Air Folk Museum were originally built around 200-300 years ago, seven houses of which are officially designated as “Important Cultural Properties”. On the s special occasion of the 50^th anniversary, we launch a new smartphone app to act as an audio guide for visitors. By downloading this special app, you will be able to listen to an audio guide while viewing a layout map of the museum, precious older pictures, and check information regarding events. In addition to this app, please also refer to the brochures located in the museum, which are available in 10 different languages.

【Smartphone app】

■How to Use: Download the app for free at either the App Store or Google Play Store

■Languages Available: Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean

【Brochure】

■Languages Available: Japanese, English, Chinese (simplified and traditional), French, Korean, German, Spanish， Portuguese, and Filipino, Thai (coming soon) * You may download from the following website: http://english.nihonminkaen.jp/

■ Inquiries: Japan Open Air Folk House Museum TEL: 044-922-2181

■ Cultural Properties Section， Kawasaki City Board of Education TEL: 044-200-3305

Official Website: http://english.nihonminkaen.jp/

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【Chiba Prefecture】Developed a new technology that makes it possible to determine the species of fish just by checking water

A research group based in the Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba, has developed a new technology that can determine fish species by analyzing a cup of water. This method analyzes environmental DNA, which is suspended in the water column and is released from fishes through mucus, feces, etc. This groundbreaking technique enables researchers to monitor a diverse range of fishes over a wide area in a short period of time without special knowledge on fishes in that area. Under traditional methods, such as observing fish by diving or catching them, it was impossible to achieve this kind of monitoring. By applying this technique, researchers are expected to discover more unknown fish species. For example, the research group has used this method to discover two new deep-sea fish species (known as Mirror Belly genus Monacoa) off the coast of Australia.

■ URL: https://www.jst.go.jp/pr/announce/20150722-4/index_e.html

http://www2.chiba-muse.or.jp/?action=common_download_main&upload_id=17223 (Japanese)

■ Inquiry：Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba

■ Department of Ecology and Environmental Sciences,

TEL：043-265-3111 (+81-43-265-3111) E-mail : miya@chiba-muse.or.jp

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【Yamanashi Prefecture】6th Issue of Local PR Magazine “Yamanashi Tekuteku” Released

6th issue of “Yamanashi Tekuteku” has been released to introduce unique local resources and various attractions and charms of Yamanashi Prefecture in depth. The theme of the 6th issue is “Great Politician: Takeda Shingen”, reporting on his excellent state management and the historical sites associated with him.

■URL：http://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/koucho/tekuteku.html (information available in Japanese only)

■Inquiries: Yamanashi Prefectural Government Public Relations Division 055-223-1339

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[Yamanashi Prefecture] ”Sports Camp Guide YAMANASHI, JAPAN ” Now Launched

We are happy to announce that our new sports camps website aimed at foreign athletes, ”Sports Camp Guide Yamanashi, Japan ” was opened on January 19th, 2017. It can be accessed using the URL below. This homepage provides a wide range of information that will be necessary when choosing a location for sports camps, starting with summaries of the sports facilities in Yamanashi Prefecture, its location next to the Tokyo Metropolis, its brilliant nature, its fortunate weather, its support system and messages from top athletes who have links to the prefecture. We in Yamanashi Prefecture have created this website to provide more sports related information than ever before, and so we hope that you will keep it active, and use it often.

■ Website: http://www.sports-camp.pref.yamanashi.jp/
■ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yamanashisports
■ Language: Website: Japanese / English

PDF data of each sports facility: English / Spanish / Portuguese

Digital pamphlet: Japanese / English / Spanish / Portuguese / French
■ Inquiry: Yamanashi Sports Camp Support Desk

Yamanashi Pref. International Strategy Office: +81-(0)-55-223-1545

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[Chiba Prefecture] The 2020 Olympic Surfing Venue will be in Chiba!

The International Olympic Committee officially announced that the town of Ichinomiya’s Tsurigasaki Beach, located in southern Kujukuri, will be the venue for the first-ever official Olympic surfing competition as part of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Many national and international events have been held on Tsurigasaki Beach, and it is a favored location by many surfers. This event is in addition to the already three Olympic (Taekwondo, Fencing, and Wrestling) and four Paralympic (Wheelchair Fencing, Taekwondo, Goalball, and Sitting Volleyball) events scheduled to be held at Makuhari Messe. A total of eight events from the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held in Chiba Prefecture.

■ URL: http://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/oripara/surfin/kyougikaijyoukettei.html

■ Inquiries: Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games Division 　 TEL:043-223-2428　FAX:043-225-4467　

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[Chiba Prefecture]　A New type berry, the “CHI-BA+BERRY”

“CHI-BA+BERRY” is a new strain of strawberry, which Chiba Prefecture has had under development for a long time. “CHI-BA+BERRY” is large, sweet, juicy, and has a slight tanginess that makes it just right. The new berry also has a high resistance to the major strawberry fungal disease known as “powdery mildew.” The “CHI-BA+BERRY” is now being produced on about 50 strawberry farms across Chiba Prefecture. Strawberry picking, where you can pick the sweet and ripe “CHI-BA+BERRY,” can be enjoyed starting from January and through the spring.

■ Major strawberry picking farms (Japanese only)

URL:https://www.pref.chiba.lg.jp/ryuhan/ichigo/chi-baberry2.html

■ Contact: Chiba Prefecture Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Department,

Distribution and Marketing Division TEL 043-223-2963 FAX:043-227-8307

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