By toshidama

There is a long tradition of puppetry in Japan that stretches back to the seventeenth century. Puppet theatre predates kabuki theatre and informed much of the style, dramas and conventions that kabukiadopted and made its own. Not only does puppet theatre (bunraku) have an important place in Japanese culture but so do its close relatives: the extraordinary lifelike tableaux of life size dolls, called Iki-Ningyo, that were the craze in Edo Japan in the nineteenth century. These staggeringly naturalistic creations are pictured in woodblock prints by Kuniyoshi and other ukiyo artists, although in most cases there is little way of telling that the figures acting out popular melodramas are in fact not human.

Traditional Japanese puppetry requires three active participants: the puppeteers, dressed in black robes identifiable on ukiyo prints by the mysterious black veils over their faces; the storytellers who narrated stories of modern melodrama and tragedy or else legends of heroic samurai; and the shamisen players – the shamisen being a plucked, stringed instrument like a long double bass. Bunraku reached its peak of sophistication in the coming together of these elements and the technological advances of the puppets themselves. These became larger in the eighteenth century and required three puppeteers to operate them. The heads were exquisitely and realistically carved, often with moveable features, elaborate costumes and articulated fingers and thumbs. Typically the stage of a bunraku performance is wide and narrow with the puppeteers quite visible; as in the kabuki theatre, there would be costume and scene changes and also head changes to some puppets to show aging or dramatic changes in expression. The puppeteers were highly skilled taking up to ten years to master the complex and lifelike movements. The bunraku plays really got going under the writing skills of the great playwright Chikamatsu  (1653 – 1724). His domestic dramas that brilliantly captured the loves, lives and often suicides of contemporary Edo people tended to be more popular than the conventional epic dramas and so began the long tradition of scripts passing back and forth between the puppet theatre and the kabuki theatre. Inevitably with the phenomenal rise of kabuki  in the nineteenth century, bunraku was marginalised and finally found a specialist home in Osaka.

The figures were modelled with absolute attention to character and realism, from clothing to artefacts, as in these wrestling men to the left.  The performances proved so massively popular that they were quickly followed by outlandish tableaux of exotic figures (pictured above by Kuniyoshi) which showed what people of other countries might look like -  incidentally, this gives a good idea of how insular and isolated the Japanese were at this time. Perhaps more common were lifelike representations of popular heroes and men and women of courage, disaster, suicide and thwarted love. The print below by Kunisada shows the housewife Mayazumi who contributed to the disaster relief fund of one of Edo’s many natural disasters. These figures with their glass eyes and individually set human hairs of ordinary people living their lives were not only popular in Japan; they were widely exported to the big international exhibitions all over the world. Iki-ningyo became one of the early means for which Europe and America viewed the newly opened Japan. Sadly not many of these delicate sculptures survive but there is an interesting account of the ongoing restoration of one of them at the Victoria & Albert Museum London here.

Like kabuki, the bunraku puppet theatre and the iki-ningyo died out during the period of Meiji modernisation in the late nineteenth century. Advanced technologies including film and photography became more popular and these extraordinary art forms died out. Japanese fascination for mimesis and technical excellence has continued however. The video below shows a contemporary automaton maker from Japan, continuing his family’s traditions of making extraordinary working models of people shooting arrows or drawing calligraphy for example. The incredible expertise that is used is in a direct tradition from the tableaux of Edo Japan in the previous two centuries.

To bring this tradition right up to date there are of course the contemporary Japanese sex dolls and companion dolls which although bleaker in their intended use, nevertheless retain the same demanding skills of realism and likeness that has been a Japanese obsession for so long. If you get the chance, look out for Hirokazu Kore-Eda’s 2009 film Air-Doll which tells the story of a man falling in love with his living doll and the doll subsequently coming to life. Using silicone and miniaturized motors instead of gofun and papier-mache, current Japanese robot and doll technology remains outstanding and continues to push the limits of art’s ability to mimic nature.

More Information about TOSHIDAMA GALLERY 

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Please visit http://toshidama.wordpress.com and http://toshidama.blogspot.jp/ for more articles and information. 

Please visit http://toshidama-japanese-prints.com/  -   On our site you will see a wonderful selection of Japanese woodblock prints for sale. Ukiyo-e (the Japanese name for woodblock prints of the 18th and 19th centuries) are beautiful, collectible and a sound financial investment.

http://toshidama.wordpress.com/2012/05/15/mimesis-bunraku-puppets-and-living-dolls/

Tomoko Hara and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

Ron Herman just increased its clout in Japan further by opening two new stores in two trendy areas in Tokyo and Osaka. The Grand Front Osaka was bound to hit a chord with exquisite companies and clearly Ron Herman didn’t want to pass such a golden opportunity. Therefore, Ron Herman’s first venture into the fashion scene of Osaka is based in this amazing new concept which is located in the heart of this amazing city. Meanwhile, in Tokyo a new Ron Herman store opened in Tokyo Midtown in the Roppongi area.

These two new stores opened in late April 2013 and this brings the number to eight stores in trendy Japan for Ron Herman. This delightful company is run by Sazaby League, Ltd. Therefore, while venturing into the Roppongi fashion scene is interesting by itself, it more significant that this brand is now open to the public in Osaka.

Osaka fashion and style is amazing because you have ample fashion districts in this ultra modern part of Japan. Indeed, if fashion companies are intent on developing throughout Japan then clearly Tokyo and Osaka are the prime cities because of their collective economic power and ample fashion districts. It is hoped that the venture into Grand Front Osaka will be the start of something fresh in this part of Japan.

Zara Home also opened a new store in Grand Front Osaka because of the prestigious nature of this new concept in the heart of this flourishing city. This company is firmly established in Europe, Middle East, North America and South America and they also have a major presence in China and Japan. The international nature of Zara Home is abundantly clear because they have so many stores open throughout the world.

A PR representative of this company stated that “Grand Front is a favorable location with attractive Umeda clientele. One ‘home’ can be completed with ZARA HOME items.” For individuals who have never visited Umeda and the surrounding fashion districts then clearly this area must be put high on your list if you have the opportunity to visit this part of Japan. The buzzing vibes of Shinsaibashi, Namba and Umeda are truly exuberant because of exquisite fashion which runs throughout many fashion districts in vibrant Osaka.

Zara Home also opened a new store in LaLaport Yokohama in order to enhance their growing influence within the Japanese market. Lifestyle lovers will certainly enjoy this new store because of the quality products on sale and the array of imagination which goes into their respective stores.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers

http://www.zarahome.com/ Zara Home

http://www.ronherman.com/ Ron Herman

http://en.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline for the latest Tokyo and Japan vibes

http://en.fashion-headline.com/article/2013/05/07/868.html Fashion Headline and Zara Home

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Michel Lebon and Tomoko Hara

Modern Tokyo Times

Lolita fashion began to sprout up in Japan in the late 1970s to early 1980s and over time you have had many offshoots within the “Lolita fashion style.” The clothing image and aesthetics relate to France and the United Kingdom within the realm of all the positives of the Rococo and Victorian periods. Irrespective if the vibe of today hides the real reality of the Victorian period and Rococo period, the role of fashion is to transcend this and to create an image of cuteness, positivity and pure class.

Since the early period which evolved around a small number of individuals this fashion style continues to develop and grow. Therefore, despite this fashion style being relatively obscure in the initial period and being extremely minor in the field of everyday fashion in Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, and other cities, this style is increasingly popular worldwide. Also, you have special areas in Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities in Japan which cater and are influenced by Lolita fashion.

Lolita fashion unlike kawaii culture, the punk period, and various other trends, is relatively constrained within certain boundaries. However, despite this you have various styles within the Lolita fashion style. Also, like all fashion trends, it is clear that the natural beauty of many Lolita outfits is being utilized by other fashion styles when it comes to creativity.

Kansai was the initial bedrock of Lolita fashion in Japan but in time areas and companies would adopt this style in parts of Tokyo. Early boutiques which began this movement many decades ago applies to Milk and Pretty (known as Angelic Pretty in time), Pink House, The Stars Shine Bright, and Metamorphose temps de fille.

In time music groups who liked the Lolita image would help this fashion status and Lolita went from obscure shops and a small client base to major powerful stores today in Japan. Most notable, would be Marui One in Shinjuku where you will find beautiful boutiques selling Lolita fashion, kawaii fashion, and other trends emanating from Japan.

Despite the name Lolita having sexual connotations in Western culture this fashion scene is not about looking sexy. Lolita is about elegance and cuteness and sometimes you may see images of Lolita style fashion with ladies in long boots and so forth, but this is outside of the Lolita image and style. Therefore, Lolita on the whole expresses the beauty of the fashion designs and cuteness of both the design and the individual (some Lolita styles are not based on this) who feels special in elegant clothes.

Just like other fashion trends some people will just love the special feel of wearing sophisticated clothes and looking different. However, for others, they will also like the lifestyle associated with Lolita and this applies to philosophy and living in a world based on beauty and other aspects of this movement.

Of special appeal to both writers of this article is Classic Lolita because unlike Sweet Lolita and other areas of this fashion, Classic Lolita suits a wider age group and connects more strongly with aspects of Victorian fashion. This applies to floral patterns and looking classy rather than being focused on cuteness and bold colors.

In contrast to Classic Lolita you have Sweet Lolita which certainly suits the younger generation because this style is based on more expressive styles and is more “child-like” in the positive sense. Therefore, outfits relating to Sweet Lolita are very popular in the colors pink, white, and powder blue. Also, light make-up and a natural approach suits the style of clothing and often you will see hairstyles with lovely bouncy curls and stylish pony tails.

Kuro Lolita (Black Lolita) is a fascinating style based on the co-ordinates of black and the style of this fashion looks very elegant. Also, if an individual is new to Lolita fashion then Kuro Lolita is a great starter because this style isn’t so complex. Despite this, the Kuro Lolita and the Classic Lolita look are extremely classy and both styles suit the images of the Victorian period.

Most intriguing from a Japanese cultural point of view is Wa Lolita because this fuses the culture where Lolita fashion took off. Therefore, you have a fusion of Lolita with the styles of yukata and kimono outfits and when this style works it really looks exquisite and graceful.

Also, just like the special fabrics used for a lovely kimono you also have flower prints with great detail and other aspects of the kimono and yukata style. Kanzashi hairclip styles based on flowers also works beautifully and creates a lovely Japanese style within the Lolita fashion range.

Overall, Lolita fashion keeps on evolving and for the puritans it isn’t all positive because Ero Lolita and Cosplay Lolita are going in the wrong direction and have little to do with the real fashion image. Other styles of Lolita apply to Gothic, Casual, Country, Shiro, Hime, Punk, Kodona, Aristocrat, Sailor, and several others.

The website http://www.lolitafashion.org/ Lolita Fashion is very good for information about the different styles. Also, the Lolita Fashion website shows many beautiful images and if you prefer other styles of Lolita than mentioned in this article, then please check the images and information from this website.

Lolita is very varied and the elegant nature of the vast majority of these different styles means that many fashion designers will borrow from the creativity of Lolita fashion.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

http://www.lolitafashion.org/

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

The continuing expansion of Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M) throughout Japan is clear to all fashion lovers in this nation. At first H&M focused heavily on Tokyo and Kanto which is the natural route into the Japanese fashion market. However, the pulling power of Osaka and the Kansai region soon materialized and in 2012 the Nagoya area followed the logical path of expansion. This reality means that 2013 will also witness new ideas from the trendy H&M brand in Japan.

H&M in countless surveys done by Modern Tokyo Times did extremely well because this dynamic company was ranked high on the list. These surveys relate to female fashion in trendy Tokyo and were aimed at younger ladies. Therefore, the age groups selected mainly focused on the range of 18 to 34 years of age.

It is clear that when H&M entered the Japanese market fully in 2008 that this company had great vision and natural self-confidence. This isn’t surprising because H&M was already a big hit throughout Europe and North America. Given this reality, then H&M had already achieved a buzz within Japan before opening their first store. Not surprisingly, many fashion lovers were waiting in anticipation because of the freshness of this company and its sheer innovation.

Several years later then in numerous surveys throughout Tokyo the company H&M was extremely high on the fashion radar. It didn’t seem to matter which district was picked because the same conclusion highlighted the power of this company within the Tokyo fashion market. This reality meant that in surveys taken in Ginza, Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Omotesando, Daikanyama and other powerful fashion districts in the capital of Japan, many trendy ladies selected H&M.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times related to H&M it was stated that “The “fast fashion” brand of H&M is extremely popular for younger Japanese individuals because this company is trendy and affordable at the same time. H&M first moved to Japan in 2008 in trendy Ginza in Tokyo and since this time the company continues to grow and attract new shoppers. Therefore, the new outlet in Nagoya, which is based within the Matsuzakaya department store, is further evidence of the gradual move to other parts of Japan and this is most welcome.”

The second major area of expansion for H&M was the Kansai region and with great emphasis being put on the powerful Osaka and Kobe area. Osaka is a mega-city and areas like Namba, Umeda and many others, are awash with the finest in Japanese and international boutiques. Indeed, Osaka should be much higher on the international fashion map. This notably applies to the sheer size of the population and the purchasing power of individuals throughout this major economic hub which encompasses Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto.

The amazing “fast fashion” brand of H&M meant that it could enter the Ginza market with ease in Tokyo despite the leafy nature of this buzzing part of the capital city. Ginza is famous for the crème de la crème of fashion boutiques whereby the price range is often very pricey. This is only to be expected given the companies located in Ginza and Yurakucho. However, H&M took this in their stride and soon became a powerful brand within the high octane nature of Ginza fashion.

For now the rise of H&M is continuing in Japan because this company connected with Japanese ladies very quickly. H&M plays to the strengths that this company is blessed with and when extreme confidence is added to this, then clearly you have powerful forces at play. Therefore, for fashion lovers who adore H&M in Japan they will be eagerly awaiting new fresh ideas in 2013 from this innovative fashion company.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

In Japan you have a very natural relationship between modern and powerful train stations and the world of fashion. Indeed, many major train stations in Tokyo and Osaka, and throughout Japan, are real eye-openers to the world of fashion in the land of the rising sun. Therefore, for individuals who travel to Japan for the first time, then this reality will really stand out.

This relationship doesn’t only apply to renting retail space. More important, many major train companies own or joint-own major Japanese department stores. For example, Lumine department store was established by JR East in order to utilize the best of both worlds. After all, when you have millions of people passing through the main stations of Tokyo then this makes perfect sense.

Shinjuku and Ikebukuro are major train stations in Tokyo whereby millions of people pass through every day. People either work in these vibrant districts or individuals go shopping in these powerful parts of Tokyo. Likewise, vast numbers of people are passing through or internal and external tourists are visiting these trendy districts for various reasons.

In Ikebukuro you will find the stylish Lumine department store very close to Tobu department store on the west side, while on the east side of the train station complex you will find Seibu department store. All these amazing department stores are connected to the respective train lines which serve this train station. Within all these department stores you will find adorable fashion which applies to Japanese and international boutiques. Also, in Tobu department store and Seibu department store you can by a whole array of different products.

Likewise, in the buzzing city of Osaka you will find amazing shopping malls within major train stations or connected to various train stations within the same complex. For example in Namba, which is one of the most stylish areas in this amazing city, the fashion angle is simply fantastic and extremely trendy. Therefore, it is clear that places like Namba Walk caters for exquisite fashion and for people to enjoy eating at the many restaurants within the same vicinity. This feature is clearly popular because vast numbers of people do their shopping within Namba Walk and other amazing shopping malls which can be found within the same environment.

In Shinjuku in Tokyo major train companies like the Odakyu Group and many others like Lumine, all vie for a slice of the fashion market. The Odakyu train company was originally focused on the train sector but in time this company changed alongside the usage of the name. Now in modern times the Odakyu Group can be found in the train sector, finance, real estate, personal storage, bus service, fiber optic networking and a whole array of other areas related to business. Given the powerful nature of this company, then the Odakyu department store caters for the crème de la crème of fashion boutiques and other stores related to lifestyle.

Therefore, within the Odakyu department store in Shinjuku you will find amazing companies like Cartier, Chanel, Shiseido, Jill Stuart, Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co, Omega, Seiko, Shu Uemura and so much more. These companies provide places for people to shop for exquisite fashion, amazing watch companies and exquisite cosmetic brands.

Not only this, but the same Odakyu Group owns My Lord in Shinjuku which caters for trendy young fashion lovers. This means that the Odakyu Group is providing two fantastic department stores which are aimed at different age groups and fashion styles. Therefore, this shows the innovation of fashion and the strong connection with the train sector which understands the need to diversify. Similarly, you will find Lumine department stores within the Shinjuku train complex and other companies which mix both sectors.

Also, within walking distance outside you will have an amazing fashion angle within Tokyo and Osaka respectively – and throughout Japan. For example, in trendy Osaka you will find amazing shopping malls within and surrounding Umeda train station. Therefore, the ultra-modern train stations in major cities throughout Japan are connected with the fashion sector and being places to relax.

In the United Kingdom you have major train stations like Euston in London, Manchester Piccadilly, Paddington in London and so forth. However, while you will find some areas to buy fashion the scale is much smaller and not based on major international brands. Also, local people don’t want to relax in these train stations and go shopping, eat scrumptious food and so forth. However, in Tokyo and Osaka it is very different because major train stations are powerful fashion hubs and places whereby you can relax. Indeed, within the train station complex of Ikebukuro and connected with the Lumine and Tobu department stores, you also have a cinema within the same shared environment.

Overall, major train stations are powerful hubs of fashion. Also, in Tokyo it is clear that major train groups have established their own department stores in order to utilize the people who use their respective train companies. Obviously, because major train stations like Shinjuku and Ikebukuro serve several different train companies, then passengers of all these train networks can utilize the fashion angle of several train companies. Likewise, powerful department stores that are solely based within the fashion sector also make the most of the same environment.

Modern Tokyo Times fashion images

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers

http://www.odakyu-dept.co.jp/foreign/en/index.html

http://www.lumine.ne.jp/shinjuku/

http://www.tobu-dept.jp/ikebukuro/

http://www.hankyu-dept.co.jp/english/index.html

http://www2.seibu.jp/usrinfo/index.html

http://www.shinjuku-mylord.com/

http://www.infomapjapan.com/sight_Namba.phtml

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Michel Lebon and Tomoko Hara

Modern Tokyo Times

Tokyo and Osaka are amazing mega-cities whereby the fashion and beauty scene is always changing. Osaka is a hidden gem within Japan because this amazing city doesn’t hit the lofty international headlines like Tokyo. However, Osaka and the conurbation area which incorporates Kobe is one enormous zone which can compete favorably with all major international zones of trade and commerce.

The fashion and beauty angle in Osaka is equally amazing and each year you have new amazing developments in the realm of modern architecture. Tokyo is the usual stepping stone for international boutiques to enter the Japanese fashion sector but Osaka is powerful in its own right.

Forever 21 opened its first flagship store in Osaka on April 20 this month in the Dotonbori district. The new venture witnesses the first business dealing between Forever 21 and Parco and this bodes well for future dealings. Internationally, Forever 21 is currently blessed with 500 stores. Therefore, given the power of Osaka within the Kansai region then the new Dotonbori opening may become a future stepping stone for this stylish company within this vibrant part of Japan.

Jacob Cohen which is a stylish jeanswear and upper sportswear company opened today in the trendy Roppongi district. The sales manager, Marco Tiburzi, stated that “We also aim at increasing our presence in new markets such as former Russian countries as well as growing in the Far East. We are interested in expanding, though we want to do it gradually without going against our own identity.” Once more, it would appear that Tokyo is the stepping stone for not only Osaka but also for China because it is known that Jacob Cohen hopes to enter the Chinese market over the next few years. Roppongi is known for its international flavor therefore this district appears to be a natural suit for Jacob Cohen.

In the same fashion district of Roppongi a new Alexander McQueen accessories store opened to the general public earlier this month. The Alexander McQueen brand is famous because of exquisite elegance. Therefore, the new store will sell a variety of adorable goods ranging from bags, leather goods, jewelry, scarves and other lovely products.

Tokyo and Osaka fashion is always forward thinking and this applies to the Japanese and international angle. Also, with Planet Blue also entering the Roppongi fashion scene, then clearly many developments are taking place in this vibrant district alongside the mentioned openings of Alexander McQueen and Jacob Cohen. In the meantime new mega developments in Osaka are ongoing in many sectors and clearly the fashion angle is a lovely way to escape all the stresses of life.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

http://www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk/alexandermcqueen/en_GB Alexander McQueen

http://www.jacobcohen.it/#/home Jacob Cohen

http://www.forever21.co.jp/ Forever 21

http://en.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline

http://www.sportswearnet.com/businessnews/pages/protected/Jacob-Cohen-bets-on-export-and-hires-Lorenza-Chiavarini_6630.html

http://www.parco.co.jp/group/en/pdf/press_120719.pdf

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Kanako Itamae

Modern Tokyo Times

The Japan Department Stores Association announced more positive news for department stores in this country. It was reported that annual sales at major department stores grew collectively by 3.9% in March 2013.  This follows on from the first two months of 2013 which also showed economic growth. However, the growth figure in March outstrips the two previous months and clearly the current year is starting on a positive note.

In Tokyo the sales growth from the previous period twelve months ago was a very vibrant 6.4% in March. The figure in February was a respectable 2.5% but clearly the pace of growth is currently growing. Of course, the saying says that “one swallow doesn’t make a summer” therefore it is too early to predict the rest of 2013. In saying that, the signs look positive because within the political and banking structures of Japan you are witnessing fresh signs of hope.

Major cities like Kobe, Osaka, Nagoya, Sendai, Yokohama, and many others, highlight their own vibrant features within the fashion and retail sector in Japan. Emphasis and focus is often aimed at the Tokyo market but this distorts the real picture because the economic zone linking Kobe and Osaka is extremely powerful. Also, Kobe often creates new vibes before they enter the Tokyo scene. Similarly, in Osaka the vibes of Shinsaibashi, Namba, and other powerful districts, are a wonder to behold because of the notable sophistication and strong independent vibes which exist throughout this mega-city.

Takashimaya Department Store is reported to have witnessed a healthy internal sales figure of 5% in March from the previous year. This follows on from reaching a consolidating profit of 20% for this company in 2012. Takashimaya is also hoping to expand further in Asia therefore a new vibrancy is on the horizon within this company.

At the same time new international companies are entering the Japanese market. For example Steven Alan and Planet Blue have just entered the trendy Tokyo fashion scene in 2013. Therefore, with new international developments shaping the fashion scene in Japan it clearly highlights that this nation remains to be a major magnet for global fashion companies. In a sense, the fashion sector often beats to a different drum in Japan because quality is highly valued at all times therefore luxury brands value the Japanese “apple pie” greatly.

Timothy Schepis at (http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/) Tokyo Fashion Daily states that “Driving sales across Japan`s department stores in March was women`s apparel, jewelry, and timepieces which increased a huge 34.9%.”

It is hoped that the current economic outlook within the fashion and department sector will continue to flourish in the following months. If this happens, then a new vibrant period will hopefully trigger new independent trends and enable up and coming designers to get a fair crack at the whip. Of course, nothing can be taken for granted but the signs look optimistic.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

Modern Tokyo Times images 

http://en.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline

https://twitter.com/tokyofashndaily Tokyo Fashion Daily

http://www.rttnews.com/2096399/japan-department-store-sales-growth-quickens-in-march.aspx?type=alleco

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2013/04/japans-department-stores-up-in-march.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Hiroshi Saito and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

The luxury fashion market in Japan is internationally famous because this country is known to consume more items than any other nation. This reality means that major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya, Sendai, Yokohama and many others are awash with the crème de la crème of major international and Japanese luxury brands. Department stores also play a major role because some of the finest stores in the world are found in Japan. Therefore, with positive economic signs on the horizon in Japan based on strong sales for many retail companies in early 2013; then many new developments should open-up throughout the remainder of the year.

Indeed, one amazing feature of the Japanese luxury fashion market is that despite negative economic growth it appears that this sector ticks to a different tune. Areas like Kobe and Osaka are extremely close thereby both major cities enhance each other. These two cities also have a very vibrant fashion scene which caters from the most exclusive boutiques in the world to mainstream fashion. Also, Osaka is a major city by itself and when connected with Kobe then you have one continuous huge fashion market.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated about Osaka that “If you really want to feel a special vibe then a visit to the Midosuji Boulevard is a must. This area is blessed with being tree-lined and you have a really nice feel to this part of Osaka. Also, if you have time on your hands then the mixture between this area and Namba is extremely illuminating. On top of this, you are blessed with so many amazing boutiques to visit and the cultural changes between the Midosuji Boulevard and the 24 hour vibrancy of Namba highlights the power of culture in Osaka.”

“A partial list of companies based in Shisaibashi and the surrounding area includes Chanel, Gucci, Dior, Coach, Armani, Fendi, Rolex, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Louis Vuitton, Omega, Versace, Yves Saint-Laurent, Dunhill, BVLGARI, Givenchy, Beams, H&M, Ships, Uniqlo, United Arrows, Franck Muller, and many others including Benneton. This partial list highlights the high octane nature of fashion in this adorable part of Osaka and if you are a fashion guru then this area is a must place to visit.”

Meanwhile, in Tokyo you have several adorable leafy districts to enjoy exclusive fashion. The vibes of Aoyama, Ginza, Omotesando and Yurakucho springs to mind quickly. Likewise, in powerful fashion districts like Ikebukuro and Shinjuku you will find a wealth of many different styles. Mixed in within the diverse fashion angles of Ikebukuro and Shinjuku are also exquisite luxury brands which can be found in various trendy parts of these two amazing fashion districts.

Major luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Hermes and a whole host of other luxury brands have heavy exposure in Japan. Indeed, for many luxury brands it is clear that Tokyo and Osaka, and other powerful cities, are a collective saving grace during global economic downturns. After all, the so-called “two lost economic decades” in Japan doesn’t appear to have altered the allure of luxury fashion brands throughout this country.

Therefore, Japan is often the fashion stepping stone prior to entering the Chinese and South Korean market for the majority of famous boutiques. Japan is not only tried and tested but this nation continues to attract new forces within the world of fashion. Also, for many famous international designers who were outside of the Japanese fashion market, then in time this often changes because the lore of Japan is too strong. This fact naturally follows on from the buzzing and vibrant fashion scene throughout Japan and which is expressed openly in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

The President of Gucci and CEO of this company, Patrizio di Marco, commented about the Japanese market. He stated that “Japan is one of the biggest and most important luxury markets in the world, with sophisticated and technological consumers. In the last ten years, the most important brands went through times of difficulty, and the situation is still complex. The year 2011 was a time of recovery both in terms of revenues and brand recognition among Japanese clients….We are still investing a lot, both in terms of quality and marketing, there probably is no other market other than Japan in which Gucci’s positioning is more appropriate.”

Patrizio di Marco therefore is highlighting both the complex nature of the luxury fashion market in Japan. Yet at the same time he is making it clear how important Japan is for many famous luxury brands. It is this reality which keeps on pulling in new exquisite designers who enter the vibrant Tokyo and Osaka fashion scene. Of course, each new luxury brand will adopt a different approach to expanding in Japan but a great emphasis is put on expanding in Tokyo and Osaka – and in time – to expand in other major cities like Kobe, Nagoya and so forth.

It is also factual that the vast majority of international luxury brands base themselves in Japan first before expanding to China and South Korea. Therefore, despite the negative global economy it is abundantly clear that for fashion lovers it is “business like usual.”

Modern Tokyo Times images 

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com 

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The artist Tani Buncho felt the rich pull of Chinese culture despite the historical reality of Japan being mainly cut off from the outside world during his lifetime. Buncho was born in 1763 and died in 1840 and throughout his life the Edo period infringed heavily upon his desire to obtain greater international knowledge. This applies to his love of Chinese high culture despite being deprived from visiting this nation because of policies linked to Sakoku (locked country).

Buncho was also influenced by the deep impressions of culture within his native Japan and the snippets of Chinese and Western culture which reached this isolated nation. He is remembered for belonging to the Bunjinga school of thought alongside other notable artists like Kameda Bosai, Hanabusa Itcho, Ike no Taiga, Watanabe Kazan, Tomioka Tessai and several other powerful artists.

Bunjinga equates to literati painting and this school of thought flourished during the late Edo period. It is also known under the name Nanga which applies to the Chinese Southern school. However, Buncho was very inquisitive by nature therefore aspects of Western art also impacted upon him and he wasn’t afraid to search for new ideas. The one binding feature of Buncho was the lore of high culture irrespective if this applies to internal or external forces.

The Saru Gallery states that “Tani Buncho was one of the most important painters of his period, with a tremendous influence on his contemporaries. Born to a samurai family in Edo in 1763, his father, Tani Rokkoku, was a well-known poet and a vassal of Lord Tayasu (the second son of the eighth Tokugawa shogun).”

“Buncho first studied Kano painting with Kato Bunrei and Kitayama Kangan. He then studied the Nanga style under Watanabe Gentai and Kushiro Unsen. He also studied all other types of painting then being practiced in Japan: Tosa, ukiyo-e, Eastern style, and, under a Chinese painter in Nagasaki, the Chinese mode. He was a connoisseur of paintings. He was the author of Honcho Gasan, which contains reproductions of his copies of old Japanese paintings. He also wrote Buncho Gadan, a treatise on painting. Although best known as a nanga artist, he is also well known for his realistic portraits. His work is wildly eclectic.”

It is clear that his background enabled Buncho to reach the heights that he would obtain once he mastered many different styles. The power of poetry also must have blessed him greatly in the field of art because new concepts impacted greatly upon his artistic work.

Despite Japan being mainly cut off from the outside world it is clear that many international cultural influences from the past remained. Also, “small windows” remained open whereby Chinese, Korean and Western culture could enter despite the enormous restrictions. Therefore, Buncho searched these “small windows” in order to obtain new knowledge.

Chinese culture had impacted greatly on Japan in the past. This notably applies to art, culture, philosophy, religion, architecture and other powerful areas. Likewise, Korea also influenced Japan in many powerful areas. Given this reality, then the implementation of Sakoku wasn’t aimed at the traditions and fusions of Japanese society but merely at isolating the country and keeping out “alien concepts” which were deemed a threat to the social fabric of society.

In modern day Saudi Arabia it could be stated that a form of “Sakoku” exists because apostasy leads to the death penalty and this nation doesn’t tolerate outside concepts like socialism, democracy, liberalism, and so forth, which are equally deemed to be a threat to the power mechanisms of society. Likewise, North Korea regulates society just like modern day Saudi Arabia. Therefore, while both nations are very different from old Japan during the Edo period – you can still envisage the difficulties faced by individuals who desire to obtain real knowledge of the outside world. Not surprisingly, the world of China and the West which entered Japan during the Edo period will have been clouded by all the restrictions put upon society.

Ironically, while this negative reality restricted artists like Buncho – it also could be stated that this fact enabled a unique approach within the bunjinga art world to materialize. After all, the real understanding of the Chinese Southern school couldn’t be fully understood because of all the constraints. This fact meant that replication couldn’t be obtained therefore the bunjinga movement created its own unique style and this also applies to the rich meaning behind the art work.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times about bunjinga it was stated that “…while the clampdown against Christianity was a reality and converts would be killed without haste, it is abundantly clear that Edo did not infringe on the teaching of other non-Japanese indigenous faiths and philosophies that came to Japan via China and Korea. Given this reality, Chinese ideas ran through the veins of Japanese society because the ruling elites adopted Edo Neo-Confucianism whereby greater stratification took place. The samurai also built many Confucian academies and while the movement called Kokugaku would emerge with greater power and influence, this applies to focusing on Japanese culture, history, the Shinto faith, and ancient literature; the rules of the old world would remain. Given this, Confucian philosophy would still hold sway during the Edo period until the last few decades before the Meiji Restoration of 1868…”

Contemporary ideas from China ceased to impact upon Japan during the Edo period. Therefore, Buncho’s image of old China was stuck in a time warp of exquisite nature when it comes to Chinese high culture. Buncho also utilized his knowledge of the Tosa School of art and ukiyo-e. Not surprisingly, Chinese and Western art entered the world of Buncho through the fog of the power mechanisms of the day.

Buncho leaves a remarkable legacy despite all the restrictions he faced because his creativity and love of culture overcame the many high mountains he faced.

http://jyuluck-do.com/profile_tani_buncho.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tomoko Hara and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

The main players within the Japanese Department Store sector in Japan have showed positive results for February 2013. Currently, three of the top four department stores have released their results and all report positive signs. This bodes well and while the increase is relatively minor for two department stores, at least it shows that sales are going in the right direction.

J. Front Retailing which is known for its creativity announced a buoyant 4.6% increase. Clearly this will please this company because the same-store sales increase is relatively high given the sluggish economy of Japan. Therefore, strategists within this company will be hoping to gain on this early momentum to the start of 2013.

Daimaru and Matsuzakaya Department Stores both come under the J. Front Retailing umbrella. This reality means that this leading operator is based extensively throughout Japan. The modernization of the Daimaru Department Store in central Tokyo is a clear indicator behind the dynamics of J. Front Retailing. After all, this company is known for innovation and forward thinking. Also, the Daimaru image is firmly entrenched within the mindset of Japanese fashion lovers.

In the Tokyo Daimaru Department Store which is located within the huge train complex you will find exquisite Japanese and international brands catering for men and women. For example, you have many adorable boutiques which applies to Armani Collezioni, Bally, Bottega Veneta, Celine, Diesel, Burberry, Chloe, Fendi, Max Mara, Marc By Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Comme Ca Stage, Tod’s, Miu Miu, Paul Stuart, Triumph, Wacoal, Prada, Dunhill, Burberry, Black Label, Salvatore Ferragamo, Orobianco, Paul Smith Collection, Tumi, Samsonite, Polo Ralph Lauren, Rimowa and Zero Halliburton.

Indeed, the above listed companies highlight the delightful nature of major department stores in Japan because they all cater to for exquisite brands. However, the competition is extremely competitive. Therefore, it is essential that major department stores stay one step ahead. Of course, this is easier said than done because being based in such prime locations then clearly the overheads are enormous for all department stores. This reality, on top of the growing sales within e-commerce, means that no major department store can rest on their laurels.

Isetan Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya also announced same-store sales growth despite their respective figures being below J. Front Retailing. Isetan Mitsukoshi announced a 0.8% growth rate while Takashimaya stated that their sales had grown by 0.3%.

Of course, these department stores cater for a whole array of goods but irrespective if people are shopping for cosmetics, fashion items, or whatever; the one guarantee is quality and this also applies to the service. It is hoped that the start of 2013 will see similar positive results throughout the year even if the odd blip may occur.

Modern Tokyo Times images

Lee Jay Walker provided support to both main writers

For latest fashion news in Japan then please see below:

http://en.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline (English)

http://www.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline (Japanese)

https://twitter.com/FASHIONHL Fashion Headline on Twitter

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tomoko Hara and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

If you adore the Japanese fashion scene and want to know all the latest news related to domestic and international companies, then Fashion Headline is a must place to visit on the internet. Fashion Headline provides the latest information related to a broad array of developments within the fashion industry in Japan. Similarly, you have amazing news which connects the expansion of Japanese companies within the international arena.

Of course, Fashion Headline (http://en.fashion-headline.com/) is not just based on this sector because the uniqueness of this website is that it focuses on lifestyle, which encompasses on many diverse areas. This means that Fashion Headline provides a lovely equilibrium of news related to fashion, trends, beauty, entertainment, life, design, art, business information and issues related to the ecology market.

The Fashion Headline (http://www.fashion-headline.com/) website provides a lovely layout which is user-friendly. Also, you can keep up to date through the medium of the Japanese and English language. At the same time Fashion Headline is interactive in the field of social media. Therefore, you can keep in touch with the latest vibes and news by connecting via Twitter and Facebook.

Japanese fashion is internationally famous because of the elegant and exquisite nature of this sector alongside the importance of quality and providing a professional service. At the same time, Japan is also famous because all major international brands desire a slice of the “Japanese apple pie.” This reality means that throughout major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe, and many others, you will find the crème de la crème of Japanese and international companies related to fashion, health and many aspects of lifestyle. It is this unique angle which enables a rich vein of exquisite companies to flourish within the Japanese market.

Therefore, Fashion Headline incorporates all this within their amazing website by providing a whole array of latest news connected with the many angles that they cover. The luxury angle is extremely well covered and this applies to across the board, for example from fashion to beauty – to a lovely dynamic angle encompassing the arts. Also, the creative dimension is another treasure alongside providing valuable information and this can be seen by the ecology angle to lifestyle. In truth, it is very difficult to find a weakness within the area that Fashion Headline focuses on because it is abundantly clear that great care and attention is another essential ingredient to this adorable website.

If you want to know about the latest news and vibes related to the fashion and lifestyle scene in Japan, then Fashion Headline is a must. Similarly, if you adore news about the latest beauty news and other areas like design; then clearly Fashion Headline will cater for you. Likewise, the art angle is extremely refreshing alongside the ecology area. Also, Fashion Headline provides quality interviews with the movers and shakers in Japan. Overall, if you want to know the latest news about a broad area of topics covered by this article and to find out about how Japanese companies are expanding internationally; then Fashion Headline is the place to visit because “quality” is part and parcel of this delightful website.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both writers

Modern Tokyo Times images

http://en.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline (English)

http://www.fashion-headline.com/ Fashion Headline (Japanese)

https://twitter.com/FASHIONHL Fashion Headline on Twitter

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Yuzo Saeki and Alyse Radenovic come from extremely different cultures and belong to different periods of history. Yet the one binding reality is their love of art irrespective if their respective thought patterns are different. This article is meant to briefly open up their respective worlds and to give the reader the chance to explore their intriguing art.

In truth, do experts count in the field of art and likewise when did popularity mean anything? After all, many famous artists in history struggled to survive and barely hit the heights during their respective lifetime, if indeed at all. Therefore, art and famous artists belong to the world of “reality” and “unreality.” The same applies to what each individual viewer can feel from different special pieces of art because ideas and connections vary enormously.

Yuzo Saeki was born in 1898 and sadly he passed away under terrible conditions in 1928. He was born in Osaka but died in a lonely place in Paris whereby he was mourned by virtually nobody. Indeed, the pain of his tuberculosis and worsening mental state meant that Yuzo Saeki drew even more frantically because he knew deep inside that his days were numbered. The final few months would witness him being put into a mental asylum in Paris and dying while being penniless.

The world of (http://www.alyseradenovic.com/index.htm) Alyse Radenovic belongs to the modern world because she was born in 1973 and currently this extremely artistic lady resides in Arlington, Virginia, in America. Yet both share the world of art and the fusion of different cultures which impact on their respective thought patterns. Of course, the world of Paris and the France that Yuzo Saeki knew is mainly now buried in the cold earth. In the new Paris of today only the vestiges of culture, history, faith, connection and other areas, maintain a link with the old world. Likewise, the world of modern Japan would render mass confusion for Yuzo Saeki if his spirit could magically reform itself into “a new being” in modern Japan. Similarly, the world of Alyse Radenovic in Arlington will be very different from others because people shape “the world around them.” Also, her love of Serbia and the struggle of different Serbian communities in Bosnia, Croatia, and Kosovo, bind her with the passion felt by Yuzo Saeki towards France.

In many art pieces by Yuzo Saeki you can envisage a world of chaos and abandonment despite the original theme being full of beauty, when applied to his art work in Paris. Maybe it was the real “Yuzo Saeki” speaking through his art. After all, during his final months on this earth in Paris he was also thrown out and forgotten. Therefore, the distant and chaotic brushstrokes may also indicate his inward isolation, while painting frantically in the knowledge that his time was ebbing away because of tuberculosis.

The feeling of abandonment for Yuzo Saeki may seem like a million miles away from Alyse Radenovic when it applies to time and their respective lifestyles. However, for the Serbs of Kosovo they also feel abandoned by the international community which sits back while their numbers dwindle in percentage terms and their culture is being destroyed. It is sometimes difficult to know the worse type of pain – either the pain which one feels because of the internal reality of a terrible disease – or the pain from seeing something that you love which is being destroyed but you are powerless to do anything. This reality means that the different worlds of Yuzo Saeki and Alyse Radenovic share a common thread linked to suffering irrespective if the circumstances are different.

In another article about Yuzo Saeki I comment that “Yuzo Saeki provides a genuine glimpse into the “real separation” of “a love affair” which refused to acknowledge his deep love of Paris and France. This applies to many art pieces whereby the distance from his vantage point is noticeable by the confused lettering of certain places he depicted. Also, the manic and confused lines within some of his art may denote all the inner-confusions and utter desperation that he felt at times. Despite this, and being in extremely poor health, he could not pull himself away from a culture which inspired him to create stunning pieces of art.”

In the stunning art piece by Alyse Radenovic titled “Stara crkva u Sarajevu” it is clear that the art and subject matter is much deeper than the original image when viewed in the first few seconds. The more you look and think about the demographic changes happening in Sarajevo today, whereby the Serbian community is resembling what is happening in Kosovo, despite various different factors. Then it soon becomes apparent that the “abandonment” of Yuzo Saeki in Paris can be felt by Alyse Radenovic despite the issue being a million miles away.

I comment about this beautiful piece of art by stating that “The light of faith is facing the darkness of time in Sarajevo.”  Yuzo Saeki also could feel the tuberculosis eating away at him in distant Paris but his love of art was too strong to draw him to safety. Likewise, for the remaining Serbs of Kosovo their love of their land, religion, culture, and history, means that they stay despite being abandoned and knowing that “the light of hope” is ebbing away.

This article is meant to provide a brief glimpse into aspects of the art and thought patterns of Yuzo Saeki and Alyse Radenovic. For more information then please check the websites below. Also, it must be stated that the respective art of Yuzo Saeki and Alyse Radenovic are much more varied than the limited theme chosen in this article. For example, Alyse Radenovic produces lovely landscapes and other forms of art based on a wealth of different themes.

MORE INFO ABOUT Alyse Radenovic and Yuzo Saeki

Alyse Radenovic – Number 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9  / Yuzo Saeki – Number 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10

http://www.alyseradenovic.com/index.htm Alyse Radenovic

https://twitter.com/AlyseRadenovicA Twitter account of Alyse Radenovic

http://www.alyseradenovic.com/alyse%20bio.htm Brief bio and contact information related to Alyse Radenovic

http://www.art.com/gallery/id–a228566/yuzo-saeki-posters.htm Yuzo Saeki

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYC5XDpzA1A Yuzo Saeki

Images of Art by Alyse Radenovic belong to this artist 

http://moderntokyotimes.com/2012/05/27/japanese-art-and-yuzo-saeki-the-outsider-who-died-in-a-distant-land-in-an-insane-asylum/ 

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com