Helmut Joachim Schmidt and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The intelligence agency of Germany, the BND, appears to be realizing that the Syrian government and the armed forces are not in the process of being overpowered. This is a remarkable turn-around because previously the BND hierarchy had predicted the end of the government of Bashar al-Assad. However, times are changing because now this intelligence agency believes that the government position is stronger now than it was last year.

All articles written by a syndicate of writers from Modern Tokyo Times have repeatedly gone against the grain in terms of ignoring the propaganda against the government of Syria. This applies to never predicting the demise of the armed forces of Syria alongside highlighting the enormous spin by so-called experts and major media outlets. Therefore, futile predictions and focusing on made-up mass desertions of the Syrian armed forces and the majority of the populace being against Bashar al-Assad were totally ignored.

Indeed, if the government of Bashar al-Assad does collapse then it will be nothing to do with the so-called “revolution.” If anything, the real “revolution” is that the majority of Syrians are standing firm against the enormous array of enemies which seek to weaken independent Syria based on various different factors. Simply put, the conflict only reached this level because of untold numbers of international jihadists, mercenaries and covert operatives entering Syria and being supplied by military means by countless different nations which care little about this nation. This reality means that the so-called “revolution” is “a puppet” of the CIA, MI6, DGSE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Al-Qaeda and other outside forces which are working closely with the governments of America, France and the United Kingdom.

Spiegel Online reports that the head of the BND, Gerhard Schindler, did a major about-turn because he had predicted that the government of Bashar al-Assad would collapse by early 2013. Of course, many predictions by the leader of America and a host of others, including the BND, had stated that the government of Syria would collapse much earlier than this. Yet now Gerhard Schindler and the BND in general are rethinking such naïve forecasts.

Spiegel online states that “Since then, however, the situation has changed dramatically, the BND believes. Schindler used graphics and maps to demonstrate that Assad’s troops once again possess effective supply lines to ensure sufficient quantities of weapons and other materiel. Fuel supplies for tanks and military aircraft, which had proved troublesome, are once again available, Schindler reported. The new situation allows Assad’s troops to combat spontaneous rebel attacks and even retake positions that were previously lost. The BND does not believe that Assad’s military is strong enough to defeat the rebels, but it can do enough to improve its position in the current stalemate.”

Therefore, it is clear that powerful media agencies, foreign governments and so-called specialists have all been caught by their own propaganda. After all, many new dimensions are now taking shape internally whereby government supporters are playing a more powerful military role in unifying logistics with the national army. At the same time, the Russian Federation and Iran have refused to budge because both nations, and many others, understand that the internal situation is very complex. Political elites in Moscow and Tehran also understand the need to crush Al-Qaeda affiliated groups and other terrorist organizations and to quell sectarian forces which threaten the entire region.

It is also clear that all major religious leaders in Syria are opposed to outside meddling because hostile foreign nations are fueling terrorism, sectarianism and sedition against independent Syria. Iraq is also disillusioned with the role of major Gulf and Western nations. Likewise, Tunisia is also waking up after a major secular leader was brutally murdered by Islamists in this country. After all, many terrorists in Syria come from North African countries which include Libya and Tunisia. The Russian Federation is also deeply worried about the Chechen and Caucasus Islamist angle because Moscow fully understands that this reality will endanger the national security of this nation.

In recent weeks the armed forces of Syria are continuing to make inroads in many areas. At the same time, more brutal massacres by Islamist forces are further alienating the population. Indeed, in areas under the control of Al-Qaeda affiliated groups it is more than apparent that they are ruling by fear. This applies to openly killing people based on whimsical charges and clearly religious minorities and mainstream Sunni Muslim leaders fear the draconian Salafi militants.

The BND to the embarrassment of America, France and the United Kingdom also makes it clear that various anti-government militias don’t recognize the so-called “political leadership” outside of Syria which is meant to be on their side. This is also further evidence that it is outside nations which are pulling the strings and even Saudi Arabia and Qatar are at loggerheads. For these two feudal monarchies have different agendas and while Saudi Arabia is worried about the long-term rivalry of the Muslim Brotherhood if the Obama administration and Qatar get their way; it is clear that Qatar cares little apart from paying anyone who is willing to kill Syrians on behalf of the “outside funded revolution.”

It is hoped that Guido Westerwelle, the German Foreign Minister, will keep Germany from a distance. After all, no nation which supports morality should be caught-up in supporting terrorist and sectarian groups which behead, chop Syrian soldiers up, train children to kill Syrian soldiers, kidnap Christian bishops, kill pro-Syrian government Sunni Muslim clerics, kill journalists, do car bombings and brutally murder Alawites and Shia Muslims. Of course, this reality doesn’t concern America, France, Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. However, many European nations are worried about the mass brutality of various Islamist factions in Syria alongside many barbaric forces within the so-called Free Syria Army.

Of course, danger still exists for the government of Syria because you always have the threat of future “false flags.” Indeed, this is the reality – if the Syrian government is overpowered it will only happen because of the work of multiple outside nations working in tandem with terrorists, covert operatives, mercenaries, sectarian forces and because the same ratlines will have destroyed the economy from head to foot.

IMAGE - CIA document on early talks to create the “Bundesnachrichtendienst” in 1952

http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/german-intelligence-believes-assad-regime-regaining-lost-power-a-901188.html

http://www.bnd.bund.de/EN/_Home/home_node.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Laura Leiva

Modern Tokyo Times

Leonardo DiCaprio and director Baz Luhrmann once again create a stunning adaptation of a classic story – this time The Great Gatsby, which takes place during the Roaring Twenties. Glitz, glamour and stunning visuals pull fans in from the opening credits and envelopes the audience in opulent locations, ornate fashion and hip soundtrack. The star-studded cast features Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton in the co-starring roles.

The story of The Great Gatsby is told by Nick Carraway (Maguire), who reminisces about how met his illusive and mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby (DiCaprio). Staying in a sanatorium for treatment of anxiety and excessive alcoholism, Carraway’s doctor suggests working through his thoughts by writing his story down on paper, and as a formerly aspiring writer, Carraway starts his story at the beginning when he moved to New York from the Midwest and rents a small house among some of the grandest mansions on Long Island. Across the bay from his house live his cousin Daisy (Mulligan) and her husband, Tom (Joel Edgerton). After seeing lavish parties going on in the Gatsby house, Carraway receives a personal invitation by Mr. Gatsby to attend the next party. After the two meet, Carraway realizes that Gatsby wants him to set up an afternoon tea and invite Daisy so they can have a reunion after many years.

Daisy and Gatsby reconnect after years apart and begin a love affair. Gatsby tries to persuade Daisy to leave Tom, but she takes convincing and does not end up doing as she promised. During an outburst between Tom and Gatsby, Daisy realizes she loves Tom and it greatly upsets Gatsby, as all his money and possessions were gained in an attempt to win Daisy back. Tom leaves Daisy and Gatsby to drive back to Long Island and on the way, they strike and kill a woman with their car – Tom’s mistress. Gatsby tells Carraway that it was in fact Daisy driving the vehicle that struck the woman, but he intends to take the blame. Tom, who is devastated by the loss, tells the woman’s husband that Gatsby is the owner of the car. The husband comes to the conclusion that Gatsby not only killed his wife, but was also having an affair with her.

The next day, Gatsby waits for a phone call from Daisy saying she is leaving Tom. He goes for a swim and then hears the phone ring – as he picks it up and answers, he is shot and killed. Soon after, Carraway holds a funeral for Gatsby, but the only people who come pay their respects is the media – Daisy disappears with Tom without acknowledging the death of Gatsby. Disgusted by the people and lifestyle of those on the East Coast, Carraway moves back to the Midwest and checks in the sanatorium, where he writes his novel, The Great Gatsby.

This film was classic and modern – visual effects, cinematography and soundtrack created a unique take on this iconic story. DiCaprio stuns again with his effortless acting and the audience will love escaping into the Roaring Twenties for this fun, dramatic film.

http://thegreatgatsby.warnerbros.com/ The Great Gatsby

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Michel Lebon and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

Odaiba in Tokyo really stands out because of the unique architecture, the stunning Rainbow Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, relaxing walkways by the sea, the unusual site of a beach, colorful boats which light up the area at night and you also have a host of tourist attractions to enjoy. Indeed, if you visit by monorail then images of the film Blade Runner will spring to mind. Therefore, this part of Tokyo is extremely unique and provides another fascinating angle to this ultra-modern city.

Another noticeable feature of Odaiba is the romantic angle and this especially applies to the night time period. This notably applies to the amazing backdrop of Rainbow Bridge, ample dining areas to enjoy and the refreshing night time view. Also, you have nice walkways along the beach and much further afield. Given all these features, then you really do have a powerful romantic area for couples at night.

Despite the romantic feature of Odaiba at night this does not mean that individuals, friends, groups, relatives and single tourists can’t enjoy the amazing atmosphere. On the contrary, Odaiba is a charming place to relax and unwind irrespective of the situation. After all, the graceful Rainbow Bridge at night is a true wonder to behold and well worth a visit alone without the countless other attractions.

Until major regeneration began Odaiba was a backwater and the tourist angle would have been difficult to imagine. However, with so many ideas coming together to create a vibrant new part of Tokyo, then by the middle of the 1990s everything began to change. Yet despite the growing power of Odaiba and its attractiveness to internal and external tourists, you still have many new projects in the pipeline and this is the beauty of this part of Tokyo because nothing remains static.

The fashion angle to Odaiba also continues to develop. Therefore, you have ample boutiques and stores to visit in several parts of this ultra-modern part of Tokyo. Alongside this you have many entertainment choices and a wide array of restaurants to enjoy scrumptious food. The modern architecture is another amazing feature and ongoing developments continue to boost the area.

Odaiba is a very intriguing man-made island which made the most of Tokyo Bay and the state of the art technology which blesses Japan. Major landfills have altered the landscape but development was patchy at one point. Also, the “bubble economy” several decades ago impacted greatly until changes gradually altered the scene in the middle 1990s, like previously mentioned. The elevated train line, new shopping malls and several astounding hotels backed this renaissance which is continuing in 2013.

Decks Tokyo Beach and Aquacity Odaiba provides a stylish fashion angle to this lovely part of Tokyo. Boutiques on show cater for international fashion lovers and stylish Japanese brands. Within both shopping complexes you also have many other features. For example, in Aquacity Odaiba you have a very large cinema complex to enjoy the latest films on show in trendy Tokyo. Outside of the same complex you have relaxing wooden decks to stroll about and at night the view of Rainbow Bridge is simply amazing.

Venus Fort also caters for fashion and the architecture is designed like a town in South Europe several centuries ago. Within the shopping complex you have many boutiques and restaurants. Therefore, when this is fused with the architecture, then Venus Fort  is a truly relaxing place to visit and shop around for new clothes.

Tourists are literally spoilt for choice because you many unique attractions to enjoy your stay. This notably applies to Telecom Center Area; Odaiba Seaside Park; Daikanransha Ferris Wheel; Museum of Maritime Science; National Museum of Emerging Science; Ariake Colosseum; Palette Town; Leisureland; Toyota Mega Web; Oedo Onsen Monogatari; Panasonic Center; Zepp Tokyo; and Tokyo Big Sight is a huge exhibition and convention center which is blessed with bold architecture.

The Fuji TV Building is certainly iconic and is a well-known landmark which really boosted Odaiba during the growing period. Even today this iconic building continues to bless this amazing part of Tokyo. Also, Fuji TV is  one of the largest private television stations which is based in Japan and clearly many people visit this amazing building which is graced by stunning architecture.

Of course the most iconic aspect of Odaiba is the amazing view of Rainbow Bridge which is the jewel in the crown of this fantastic district. During the day this bridge clearly stands out but the romantic equation applies to the night time. It is difficult to envisage Odaiba without Rainbow Bridge, Fuji TV Building and the elevated railway system.

Odaiba is clearly a major tourist attraction because of the unique angle to this part of Tokyo. Therefore, irrespective if you are a tourist or a Tokyoite, it is abundantly clear that Odaiba is a place to enjoy and relax.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3008.html

http://www.aquacity.jp/en/shop/fashion01_2.html

http://www.venusfort.co.jp/multi/index_e.html

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Boutros Hussein and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The nation of Syria is surrounded by many hostile nations which are openly siding with al-Qaeda affiliated terrorist groups and the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) which is a proxy of outside nations. In the past Turkey under Prime Minister Erdogan also tried to entangle Syria into a broader conflict because he knows NATO will support this nation. However, the armed forces of Syria have more pressing matters than falling into a trap by Erdogan. Therefore, after the meddling of America in unifying the friendship of Israel and Turkey once more, it now appears that Israel is upping the ante based on the whims of Washington.

Fox News published a video whereby it allegedly shows Special Forces from Israel re-entering this country from the soil of Syria. It would appear strange for Fox News to deliberately show footage which was inaccurate given the nature of the ongoing crisis in Syria. Once this is verified then clearly this is a violation of international law and the United Nations (UN) should condemn Israel for infringing on the sovereignty of Syria.

Fox News stated that it “captured, for the very first time, Israeli commandos coming back from inside Syria on a mission.” This will only increase regional tensions and it is further evidence of the ridiculous reality of al-Qaeda affiliated groups in Syria. After all, you have NATO Turkey in the north and Israel in the south. However, al-Qaeda groups are only interested in destroying Syria which is the last powerful Arabic speaking nation which is independent and secular.

It is obviously presumed that Special Forces from Israel have entered Syria in the vicinity of the Golan Heights which belongs to Syria. Yet, clearly Israel is allowed to occupy land just like NATO Turkey can occupy Northern Cyprus. Sadly, the reality of the entire region is that all proxies of America, France and the United Kingdom have a free reign to cause mayhem throughout the Balkans, Caucasus region, the Middle East and North Africa – when it suits major Western and Gulf powers.

Israel is playing a very dangerous game because the latest incident comes on top of three unwarranted military strikes against Syria. It is abundantly clear that the CIA, MI6 and other agencies have given a free passage for international terrorists to enter Syria via NATO Turkey, parts of Lebanon under the influence of radical Sunni Islam and by the many ratlines emanating within Jordan. Iraq is unable to stem the flow of terrorists from entering Syria because of internal issues related to terrorism. However, the government in Baghdad is alarmed by what outside nations are doing to Syria. Also, Croatia, Albanian led Kosovo and Libya have all participated in the ratlines against Syria. At the same time, major Gulf powers in Saudi Arabia and Qatar are funding sectarianism, terrorism and sedition against independent Syria.

Outside meddling in the Levant is also igniting sectarianism once more in Iraq. Therefore, it is essential that a political solution is found to the crisis in Syria which was instigated by the connivance of America, France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom. In recent months Israel is gradually increasing the ratlines of this nation by siding with certain terrorist and sectarian factions in Syria even if the full degree remains unknown. This reality means that you now have al-Qaeda, America, France, Hamas, Israel, the Muslim Brotherhood, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom all on the same side. This sums up the entire region and the real militancy of certain organizations which are in league with powerful entities when push comes to shove.

The Syrian armed forces stated that it “destroyed an Israeli vehicle with everything that it had in it”. President Bashar al-Assad previously stated that Israel was helping the FSA and Islamists which are cleansing religious minorities like the Alawites, Christians and Shia. In recent months it appears that Israel is increasingly showing its hand and also being caught out by the ratlines which are supporting terrorist groups within Syria.

Syria can’t afford to become embroiled in a regional war with either Israel or Turkey because clearly the armed forces have more pressing issues. However, the government of Syria also can’t afford to allow is sovereignty to be violated within the borders of this nation. It is one thing for outside nations to openly support terrorism and sectarianism against secular Syria from a distance. Yet, clearly no nation can allow its sovereignty to be openly violated. Therefore, the video provided by Fox News is clear evidence that Israel is violating international law and the sovereignty of Syria.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22608489

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Ogata Gekko was a very individualistic artist who had a rich style which was based on his upbringing.  This applies to mainly being self-taught but this can be over-played because his free spirit was from within. Also, times were changing very quickly during his lifetime therefore Ogata Gekko needed to transform himself in order to meet the changing nature of Japanese society and culture.  This article however is mainly focused on the images of Japanese women by Ogata Gekko during a rapidly changing Japan.  After all, Ogata Gekko witnessed the changing nature of Japan because he was born in 1859 and died in 1920.  Therefore, this amazing Japanese artist was only a small child during the final years of the Edo period and this reality means that he belongs to the dynamic period of Meiji (1868 to 1912) and the early liberal years of the Taisho era which began in 1912.

Without a shadow of a doubt Ogata Gekko and other artists were influenced by the inward changes taking place throughout Japan irrespective if they supported modernity or were traditionalists. Alongside this was new technology which also impacted greatly on the world of ukiyo-e. Therefore, elements of rigidity during the Edo period would soon be on the wane during his childhood. However, while this led to freedom for many, it also led to chaos for other Japanese nationals because of internal convulsions. These internal issues also led to conflicts throughout Northeast Asia and it must be remembered that geography is complex when describing this region.

After all, while Japan is deemed to be firmly in Asia it must be remembered that Japan’s closest neighbor is the Russian Federation which is often seen outside of Asia and belonging to a “European home.” In many ways, Japan’s political elite and dress sense in the Meiji and Taisho periods resemble a Western imperial power. Given this reality, the “sleeping Japan” of the Edo period was now an expanding power and China – which had been the backbone of Japanese cultural influence – was now seen negatively and open to exploitation. Therefore, China now viewed Japan to be hostile because this nation was one of many imperial powers which had designs on China’s wealth. The other nations being European powers and while America may not belong to the traditional imperial club, it is true to say that America also desired a foothold in China.

Artists were also caught between tradition and modernization alongside rapidly changing cultural influences from Europe.  The interaction was not one way because Japanese artists also influenced European artists. However, for artists like Ogata Gekko they were bound to be influenced by all this confusion and mayhem.

Natsume Kinnosuke, who lived between 1867 and 1916, sums up the cultural reality of Japan during this period of Japanese history. This applies to the fact that this important Japanese novelist was a composer of haiku, Chinese-style poetry and a deep scholar of British literature.

Kobayashi Kiyochika who was born in 1847 was firmly within the traditional ukiyo-e orbit but this individual who died in 1915 changed alongside the changing nature of Japan.  He, like Ogata Gekko, understood the need to adapt while still preserving the best of Japanese traditions.

Richard Lane stated in Images from the Floating World, The Japanese Print, on page 193, that Kobayashi Kiyochika was “…the last important ukiyo-e master and the first noteworthy print artist of modern Japan… [or, perhaps] an anachronistic survival from an earlier age, a minor hero whose best efforts to adapt ukiyo-e to the new world of Meiji Japan were not quite enough.”

Ogata Gekko was part of this changing world and he would express this reality through his art.  Therefore, Ogata Gekko provides a glimpse into the cultural changes that were taking place in Japan during his lifetime.

In his images of Japanese women related to this article it is clear that you get a sense of ambition, identity and continuity alongside cultural changes.  The images show Japanese women looking elegant, refined and clearly the embroidery and color schemes show a stunning richness. Of course these images will mean different things to each individual and my own interpretation is that it shows a confident Japan and women coming out from the shadows.

The onrushing of change is clearly happening but at the same time the exquisite nature of the past is being preserved.  Ogata Gekko is therefore expressing the richness of design, fashion and embroidery during this period in Japan. Also, the females in his images show confidence and a real zest for life within a natural simplicity despite all the social upheavals caused by modernization. Therefore, the real power in these images, I believe, applies to simplicity and how space, time, cultural richness and modern Japanese women were being portrayed. Indeed, the ideal image in a sense can still be seen in modern Japan when ladies dress in traditional styles. This can be seen clearly because a lot of thought, high quality materials, color schemes and other important areas are connecting with the images which Ogata Gekko is showing.

Of course the cultural context is very different alongside the huge time difference. Also, despite these images not focusing on the political and working reality of Japan during the Meiji and Taisho period; they do highlight a culture which is confident, stylish but within the traditions of Japan. This reality means that you can sense a political angle if you look hard enough despite this being distant and hidden by the natural feel of the images produced by Ogata Gekko.

If you think about Coming of Age Day for Japanese ladies in modern Japan then all the symbolic images of tradition can be seen by stunning clothes which show the richness of Japanese tradition.  Therefore, just like the images by Ogata Gekko, you can see an ideal beauty within the Japanese psyche and while this form of dress is preserved for special occasions in modern Japan, you can still feel the connection of the past and how tradition is important.

Ogata Gekko expresses this elegantly and with a passion.

http://www.ogatagekko.net/

http://www.ogatagekko.net/BMA.html – Stunning images from this website

http://www.ogatagekko.net/FFZ.html – Fantastic set of images which show the grace of Ogata Gekko

http://shogungallery.com/index.php?cPath=21_24_153

http://woodblockprint.com.au/44.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tomoko Hara and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

Richard Gordon Smith was born in 1858 and died in 1918 and during his lifetime he wrote a delightful book called the Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan. He was known for being a very keen sportsman, traveler and naturalist and apparently from a well-to-do family but near the end of his life poverty appears to have set in. In terms of Japanese folklore, then Smith was fascinated by this area whereby he adored local folklore, myths and traditions. Therefore, he combined his knowledge by travelling extensively throughout Japan and this can be witnessed by his intriguing book titled Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan.

It is easy in the modern world to be constrained by political correctness and to lose the real imagination of the old world. However, the world that Smith knew was based on imperialism, superstition, religion, major class divisions and so forth. Yet in the realm of folklore and religion then the mind collectively was on another dimension compared with the modern world whereby science and modernity seeks to crush the intrigues of the old world. Of course, folklore to Harry Potter can impinge strongly on young children in the modern world before the reality of life crushes many dreams of the magical world. Despite this, the Japan that Smith witnessed will have been on a very different spiritual level and the same applies to the power of mythology and folklore.

The Sacred Text website (http://www.sacred-texts.com/shi/atfj/) highlights the beauty of the book written by Smith. It also becomes apparent that many local mythologies are widely imbued within his book. Therefore, for people who adore mythology and the splendid reality of the richness of Japanese culture, then clearly this book will enrich the reader greatly. Likewise, for many Japanese individuals they will see a new world that may appear distant today in modern Japan. However, if you scratch beneath the surface then somehow many old ways still survive irrespective of how the stories are changed in order to suit modern sensibilities.

Indeed, the beauty of the Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan is that it was written over one hundred years ago. This reality means that the writer and people which provided deep knowledge for Smith belonged to a world of mystery. Thereby, the setting of each folklore story is shaped by the living connection of the day.

Japanese animation also keeps alive many aspects of Japanese folklore and ghost stories within many themes. Indeed, if you watch classics like Spirited Away by Hayao Miyazaki then you can feel the power of Shintoism and Japanese folklore within many angles of this adorable animation film. In this sense, the old world is speaking to a new generation through a different medium whereby the world of dreams and mythology are still powerful. Only the connection is missing in relationship to the real power of the world of Smith – whereby many aspects of Japanese mythology played a powerful role within the mysteries of the spirit world – and other important areas.

Therefore, by reading Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan you can enrich your knowledge of Japanese folklore, while entering a passage into the world of Meiji Japan (1868-1912). Smith wrote from the heart and without any constraints therefore the language of the book is also enriched by this reality.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers

http://www.amazon.com/Ancient-Tales-Folklore-Richard-Gordon/dp/0946495785 Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan by Richard Gordon Smith

http://www.sacred-texts.com/shi/atfj/ Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan by Richard Gordon Smith

http://books.google.co.jp/books/about/Ancient_tales_and_folklore_of_Japan.html?id=HlAqAAAAYAAJ&redir_esc=y Ancient Tales and Folklore of Japan by Richard Gordon Smith

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Hiroshi Saito and Lee Jay Walker 

Modern Tokyo Times

It appears that aspects of the media in Japan are beset by Western “gilt trips” and the trappings of “multi-cultural apologetics.” This certainly applies to the English speaking media on a whole in Japan. However, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is highlighting a growing confidence within the body politic of Japan. Therefore, if nationalism follows this within the Japanese framework then this should help the nation emerge from several decades of self-defeatism.

China, India and other nations in Asia are continuing to focus on military modernization. At the same time, the United States is faced with a growing debt issue and military cutbacks. Indeed, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq highlight the limited power of America on the ground even when many nations supported the policies of Washington. The Libya debacle was prompted by France and the United Kingdom and increasingly it looks like America relies on many players in order to approach serious foreign policy issues. This reality means that Japan needs to focus on exporting both soft power and in the long-term being able to provide hard power during times of crisis.

America and the European Union don’t have a mighty China in their respective backyard but for Japan the nation of China is a reality. It is therefore essential that political elites in Tokyo focus on building greater bridges with Beijing but not from weakness – but from being equals. If China did lock-on to Japanese vessels in the disputed Senkaku (Diaoyu) area then no country can tolerate such provocations indefinitely. After all, if China is so concerned about the rights and wrongs of disputed areas then surely this nation should focus on the Tibetan issue and other areas of this country.

It is not in the interest of China and Japan to be at loggerheads because both nations need to focus on stability and strengthening past cultural realities. In history scholars from China and Japan visited each other in order to obtain greater knowledge and understanding. Nobody doubts the influence of Confucianism, Daoism and other ideas emanating from China which influenced Japanese culture. Similarly, Buddhism entered China and the Korean peninsula first before penetrating Japan. Therefore, regional nations need to move on in order to create a powerful economic bloc in Northeast Asia which is based on favorable trade agreements.

Nationalist tendencies within the Abe government don’t have to be destructive. On the contrary, it means that Japan is joining the club because nobody doubts the nationalistic tendencies of China, North Korea, South Korea and Taiwan within Northeast Asia. Indeed, for far too many decades the nation of Japan remained hidden by the American umbrella and the constraints of the constitution. However, America now needs greater input from allies because of internal economic weakness and because of past military debacles. Nobody can claim that America’s military defeated Vietnam in the distant past and more recently Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya have led to even greater instability after the intrigues of Washington. Afghanistan and Iraq are now blighted by terrorism, Islamist militancy, sectarianism and other negative forces. Likewise, Libya is now a failed state and all these realities highlight the limitedness of America and other major powers like France and the United Kingdom. This reality means that Japan needs to share the burden of America in Northeast Asia by playing a more active geopolitical and military role because the power of Washington is on the wane. Of course, America is still blessed with many aces but clearly the Cold War era is dead and regional players throughout the globe have their own geopolitical agendas therefore greater mutual understanding is needed between powerful nations in the modern world.

Kumi Yokoe, a senior visiting fellow of the Heritage Foundation, comments that “With amazing consistency, U.S. media have portrayed Abe as a fringe character — typically, as a “hawk” unsuited to pacifist Japan. Yet this supposedly “out-of-step” politician won an electoral landslide in December and enjoys a 71 percent approval rating today.”

Kumi Yokoe continues by stating that “Abe’s views differ sharply from those of the earlier generation. He wants to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance and enhance his country’s military capabilities. This arises not from “hawkishness,” but from the great sense of confidence that characterizes the generation of Japanese forty – and fifty somethings now taking the reins of power.”

“…Prime Minister Abe is the voice of this generation. That is why he so roundly condemned the successful nuclear test by North Korea last week. That is why he insisted that China apologize for locking weapons-targeting radar on a Japanese warship and promise that it would not do so again. Politicians of the Dankai generation would have eschewed such responses as too “hawkish.” But for Abe’s generation, confrontation is not synonymous with belligerence. Rather, it is a sign of confidence and realism.”

Abe is also progressive when it comes to the Trans-Pacific Partnership which the current leader in Washington supports. The growing power of China is a reality and the Russian Federation can play many strings in Central Asia, the Caucasus, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Northeast Asia. Therefore, it is time for Japan to play a more constructive role and broaden relations with all regional powers based on “normality” and not being “subservient” to the whims of any one single nation. Indeed, with the Obama administration implementing defense cutbacks then it makes sense for Japan to play a more powerful role within the geopolitical interest of both Washington and Tokyo. At the same time, Abe and future Japanese governments need to make increasing overtures to China and the Russian Federation based on mutual interests.

http://www.heritage.org/research/commentary/2013/2/shinzo-abe-voice-of-a-new-generation

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Murad Makhmudov and Walter Sebastian

Modern Tokyo Times

America, France and the United Kingdom gave the green light to Qatar and Saudi Arabia to destabilize Syria. Turkey became the essential binding force in the chain of events because of geography whereby covert operatives, mercenaries, terrorists and the forces of sectarianism would be given a free reign. Military equipment would flow in several directions and Islamist organizations in Libya and Tunisia became “play grounds for inciting hatred and helping the flow of military arms and terrorists.” The Balkans would also emerge based on past conflicts. Therefore, Croatia and Kosovo became a chain in the terrorist ratlines being pulled by the CIA, MI6 and various other intelligence agencies. Parts of Lebanon in the Sunni heartland would also become a conduit for supplying military arms, covert operatives and terrorists. Meanwhile, Jordan would face enormous pressure to join the anti-Syrian, pro-terrorist and pro-sectarian alliance. However, given the fear of Islamist political forces in Jordan then clearly this nation is worried about the bigger picture.

Major Western and Gulf powers are utilizing the media to the maximum in order to sell their “dirty terrorist and sectarian war.” Elites within America, France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom became over confident after the overthrow of Gaddafi in Libya. This reality meant that they believed that Syria would succumb to external pressure. Therefore, the more Syria united under the Bashar al-Assad government – then this forced outside nations to up the ante in the terrorist arena, covert operatives on the ground, manipulating the mass media and utilizing al-Qaeda and other Islamist terrorist networks. When it became clear that the Syrian armed forces were holding their own then the Chechen and Caucasus angle became increasingly powerful by the middle of 2012 because of past failures. Despite this, the many massacres by the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and various Islamist terrorist organizations against the people of Syria – and captured soldiers – meant that even sympathetic forces were being repulsed by such barbarity.

The more outside nations increased their terrorist and sectarian ratlines against Syria then Iraq felt these convulsions with the upshot being that this nation is once more facing a sectarian crisis. America, France and the United Kingdom know full well that Afghanistan, parts of Pakistan, Libya, and Iraq, are all blighted by terrorism and the weakness of central forces. However, despite not being able to contain the forces that they helped to unleash with willing partners in the Sunni Muslim world; the same forces of destabilization then set about spreading chaos to Syria. At no point did Gulf and Western powers consider the knock on effects to Iraq and likewise the deaths of vast numbers of people doesn’t enter the equation. In Libya the only motive now appears to have been killing Gaddafi brutally and to destroy the old order at all costs. Issues related to stabilization are soon thrown out of the window because the same axis of evil then moves on to another nation. Therefore, the flow of failed states is increasing while miraculously Israel, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are immune from all the upheaval because all three nations belong to the intrigues of Washington, London and Paris.

Indeed, the main reason why the conflict in Syria is continuing is because Gulf and Western powers alongside Turkey are afraid to fail. After all, they know that failure will lead to powerful divisions throughout the region based on two powerful blocks. Not only this, it is clear that the government of Iraq is disillusioned with America, the United Kingdom, Turkey and Gulf powers for their destabilization policies throughout the Middle East. This reality means that Iraq may decide to view Iran with a more favorable light because the very future of the power of the central state is at stake. It is abundantly clear to the Baghdad government that nations opposed to Syria care zilch about spreading terrorism and sectarianism in order to defeat the government of Bashar al-Assad. This in turn means that the same nations think nothing about igniting sectarianism once more in Iraq. After all, it is obvious that al-Qaeda and other Islamist terrorist forces in Iraq have become willing stooges of Qatar and Saudi Arabia which in turn emboldens them once more to attack central forces in Iraq.

Under the watch of President Obama and willing political fools in France and the United Kingdom the influence of al-Qaeda is spreading and the same applies to Salafi Islamist political forces. Therefore, the entire Levant, North Africa and parts of West Africa have become caught up in the terrorist, sectarian and Islamist agenda of Qatar and Saudi Arabia. This means that America and the United Kingdom have become willing partners in the Islamist agenda of the Gulf while France is caught in the middle because political elites in Paris want to protect Algeria, Mali and Tunisia from the threat of militant Islam. Yet, when it comes to Syria the nation of France is doing the opposite by supporting the whims of Gulf powers, America, Turkey and the United Kingdom. France should rethink this policy because in history this nation favored more secular forces in the Middle East unlike America and the United Kingdom which always sided with conservative feudal monarchs and despotic leaders.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “It is clear that meddling in Syria related to international terrorism, sectarianism and sedition are being employed against this secular nation. Yet this could back-fire big time? After all, the mosaic of Lebanon is being threatened by sectarianism which is being funded by outside powers in order to support the FSA, Al-Qaeda and various Islamist factions against secular Syria. Meanwhile, major issues persist in Bahrain, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Yemen, and other nations, which have been hit by the so-called “Arab Spring.” However, if Syria unravels then the patchwork of the Levant and the Middle East may suffer from the consequences – and this notably relates to the “failed state domino system” which swallowed up Afghanistan, Iraq and other nations after outside meddling.

Iraq and Syria are facing the blunt reality of outside meddling and for the people of Iraq this is yet another cycle of sectarian violence whereby the usual players care little about the horrendous death toll. Al-Qaeda, radical Salafism and the Muslim Brotherhood have all collectively gained from the policies of Washington and London in recent times in the Levant, North Africa and parts of West Africa. Ironically, while Qatar and Saudi Arabia care little about destabilizing Iraq and Syria it is clear that both feudal monarchs are at odds about supporting the Muslim Brotherhood. This sums up these two callous nations and it also says everything about the current governments of America, France, Turkey and the United Kingdom which are partaking in the unfolding chaos. Therefore, it is essential that Iraq and Syria move closer together and work with nations which support stability in order to defeat the forces of chaos.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

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 

https://twitter.com/Toshidama

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/

Hiroshi Saito and Kanako Itamae

Modern Tokyo Times

Takashimaya Co. is one of the major department stores in Japan and despite the challenging international economy they have plans to expand within Asia over the next few years. Currently the internal economy of Japan appears to be picking up based on the policies of the Bank of Japan in early 2013.  Despite this, many areas of the  international economy remains sluggish but irrespective of this Takashimaya plans to expand.  Positive early results related to sales in the first few months of 2013 in Japan also point to a nice springboard for future international expansion.

This company was founded in 1829 and since this time many changes have impacted on Takashimaya. Like any major company within such a competitive sector then many major highs and lows have happened.  At the same time periods of low growth and stagnation have also been a reality. This often coincided with the internal mechanisms of the Japanese economy. However, despite everything fresh ideas and more international knowledge meant that new openings have maintained this company through thick and thin.

It is difficult to imagine the luxury fashion floors within this elegant department store and then equate this with being founded during the Edo period. Yet this is the richness of this exquisite department store which originates from Kyoto.

In the modern world of high octane fashion and enormous competition the Takashimaya department store can be found throughout Japan. International wise they have stores in France, Singapore and Taiwan. The American adventure wasn’t successful. However, like all pitfalls any good company worth its salt will reinvigorate itself and this is what Takashimaya appears to be able to do. After all, the longevity of this company speaks for itself.

Takashimaya’s China venture whereby around three to four department stores were planned between the middle of 2012 until 2016 did raise some alarm bells last year because of negative events between China and Japan. This applies to the ongoing tensions between China and Japan, attacks against Japanese companies during heightened nationalist sentiments last year, the slowing economy in China towards the end of 2012 and fears that the market is already saturated. Therefore, it will be interesting to see if Takashimaya changes some of their long-term ambitions in relation to this but in early 2013 the situation appears more stable than in the middle of 2012. Of course, Takashimaya will continue to monitor this issue which is outside their remit because of the political dimension between China and Japan.

According to internal analysts within Takashimaya they forecast an internal shortfall which will be matched by projected growth in their international stores and within its group business. The President of Takashimaya, Koji Suzuki, informed The Asahi Shimbum in 2012 that “We plan to invest to renovate department stores in Japan, but we will not be able to keep (domestic department store) sales from falling…We will maintain sales with our overseas and group businesses.”

In Tokyo Fashion Daily the highly respected Timothy Schepis reports that “For the six month period from May to August 2012, Takashimaya will report a 16% increase in consolidated operating profit of 10.5 billion yen…The increase in consolidated operating profits comes amid sluggish sales at Japan’s department stores – still Takashimaya’s operating revenue also increased 2% to finish at 420 billion yen for the same six month period.”

However, in early 2013 Takashimaya appears to be doing much better than thought possible by the president of this company in the middle of 2012. Modern Tokyo Times states in another article about Takashimaya that “…it was reported that a bullish 17% profit margin occurred between April and November 2012. Now it is apparent that consolidated operating profit for the entire year was 20% and with recent figures indicating further growth in March 2013, then it is hoped that this economic growth is pointing in the right direction for the entire sector in Japan. After all, in recent times the sale figures were often sluggish at Takashimaya because of the overall economy being negative, internal issues, unable to keep costs down, this sector being extremely competitive and other important factors.  However, now it would appear that Takashimaya is turning the corner.”

Takashimaya department stores are famous because of the exquisite brands which can be found in all their respective stores. Therefore, this company is hoping to expand within China, south-east Asia and Vietnam. If you adore luxury fashion, a whole array of quality products, scrumptious food and so much more, then clearly Takashimaya will cater for you.

http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/shinjuku/store_information/index.html

http://twitter.com/tokyofashndaily

http://moderntokyotimes.com/2013/04/11/japan-fashion-news-takashimaya-department-store-and-strong-growth/

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2013/04/takashimaya-hits-record-high-for-first.html　

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2012/09/takashimaya-up-in-first-half.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Paul Joseph Nzeribe and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The government of Nigeria is currently using helicopter gunships and fighter jets against the Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram. At the same time, President Goodluck Jonathan is leaving a channel open by providing an amnesty for members of Boko Haram. Given the mass complexity of Nigeria in relationship to religion and ethnicity then clearly the Islamist threat is putting enormous strains on the people of north-eastern Nigeria, which is the epicenter of the crisis. Therefore, the current military offensive by the armed forces of Nigeria is being watched carefully because of the delicate situation.

Since the emergence of Boko Haram several thousands of people have been brutally murdered by a terrorist group which thinks nothing about attacking Christian churches and Muslim mosques. Islamist militants desire to rule the country by implementing Islamic Sharia law in its entirety. This reality means that indigenous Islam is also threatened because mainstream Muslim leaders are vehemently opposed to Gulf inspired Islamism, which is extremely alien to the usual way of life in Nigeria.

All Nigerians are deeply concerned about corruption, income disparity and the blatant abuse of natural resources which have been squandered in the past. Therefore, the Islamist leaders of the insurgency can easily manipulate disenfranchised Muslims to join Boko Haram. Christians and other faith and non-faith individuals also face the same issues related to poverty, corruption and income disparity. However, while ethnic disputes break out from time to time it is clear that only Boko Haram and the Islamist movement is a threat to the central nation state.

Overtures of a genuine amnesty have been flatly rejected by the leadership of Boko Haram. More problematic for the political leaders of Nigeria is that the term “amnesty” is worrying many religious figures. After all, countless massacres by Boko Haram have been beyond the pale and granting amnesty to terrorists and religious militants seems too weak. Despite this, it is clear that President Goodluck needs to quell the crisis and if he doesn’t look at all possible angles then he will be failing the people of Nigeria.

The president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Nigeria, Dr. Moshood Fashola, is skeptical about the amnesty. He comments that the “Amnesty presupposes that the one you grant amnesty to is ready to show remorse for his actions and is ready for peace…[and] to stop all this carnage…there is no such situation.”

Of course, it is clear that Islamists are anti-Ahmadiyya Muslim in other nations like Pakistan and Indonesia. Therefore, the Ahmadiyya Muslim community is worried about Islamist militancy because they know that their community will suffer if the Boko Haram terrorist movement spreads.

Julius Babatunde Adelakun of Oyo, a retired Christian bishop, commented that it is “like granting amnesty to terrorists, it is unthinkable.” The Archbishop of Ibadan, Felix Alaba Job, shares similar logic. He states that Boko Haram are “…vandals of human souls and bodies” in reference to the murder of so many civilians by this terrorist organization.

Currently you have a state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. However, the worry for the military is that Boko Haram may try to melt away and move to other parts of northern Nigeria – or move into regional nations which share a border with Nigeria. In this sense, it is essential that the military attack against Boko Haram makes quick inroads and causes disarray within this terrorist movement. If not, then hit and run tactics will become a reality and Boko Haram may try to spread discord to areas which have previously escaped bloodshed.

Militant groups are nothing new to Nigeria but Boko Haram is different because they want to usurp the nation state. The nature of the Boko Haram movement also means that fear is endemic therefore in such a climate the security forces are bound to overreact. This is what Boko Haram hopes for because they want to create a wedge between Christians and Muslims and to create divisions within the Muslim faith based on their draconian thought patterns.

http://www.americamagazine.org/issue/nigeria-new-fighting-amnesty-plan-boko-haram-provokes-outrage

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Kanako Itamae

Modern Tokyo Times

Tokyo lifestyle is extremely rich and choosing an ideal location to reside depends greatly on the demands of the individual. However, if you like the hustle and bustle of a very powerful area in Tokyo then Ikebukuro is a great choice. Also, the great thing about Ikebukuro is that the price mechanism varies accordingly and in the backstreets you will also find a more tranquil way of life.

The fashion angle of Ikebukuro is extremely powerful and this applies to department stores which include Lumine, Esola, Tobu Department Store, Seibu Department Store, Marui, Parco and several others. This means that Ikebukuro feels extremely young and vibrant in the main shopping areas of East and West Ikebukuro. The central theme is the huge train station which links so many department stores and aspects of culture in Ikebukuro.

Ikebukuro is blessed with several universities and you also have other institutions which are nearby. This once more means that this vibrant part of Tokyo is blessed with enormous pulling power when it comes to commerce, fashion, education and other important areas of modern life. The same applies to Ikebukuro being the “gateway” which links Saitama with this powerful commercial area and this fact can’t be overlooked. Therefore, many individuals who reside in Saitama will pick Ikebukuro being their first major shopping destination in Tokyo. Similarly, many Tokyoites will also pick Ikebukuro because of the fashion angle and the vibrancy of the nightlife but clearly the Saitama factor is enormous.

West Ikebukuro provides a different angle because it is more cosmopolitan and the abundance of fashion is amazing. This applies to utilizing the adorable Tobu Department Store which caters for amazing fashion brands, crafts, delicious food, and so much more. Also, for expats you have a fine selection of international cheese, wine, beer, and other products to make you feel like “home from home.”

Tobu Department Store also connects with Lumine Department Store in several places and both entities enrich each other. After all, both department stores have unique features and for young ladies who adore fashion then Lumine is one of the most popular department stores in Tokyo. Of course Tobu Department Store provides adorable boutiques for people of both sexes and different age groups. However, the price mechanism and nature of boutiques are different with Tobu Department Store having many exclusive boutiques and being more conservative. Meanwhile the trendy buzz and vibe of Lumine appeals greatly to younger ladies (also caters for male fashion) because this company understands the latest trends. Therefore, Lumine selects powerful shops-in-shop companies to be based in their department stores in order to meet the demands of the younger generation.

Esola is another lovely department store for ladies and Marui is also based in West Ikebukuro. Marui like Lumine is also in high demand for fashion lovers throughout Tokyo because both stores are extremely trendy. Meanwhile Esola provides a lovely elegant feel because despite have many exquisite boutiques, it isn’t too sizeable and this provides a lovely shopping experience. Also, within each department store they cater for other products and you have so many places to eat in the same buildings. This is an added bonus because people can unwind with friends and so forth by relaxing in stylish restaurants where the food is scrumptious.

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space will re-open this autumn in 2012 and once the new design is on view then people will be able to relax in a stylish arena which caters to the cultural angle of Ikebukuro. Japan Traditional Craft Center in Ikebukuro is also a must place to visit for adorable Japanese crafts. This building is connected to Tobu Department Store and opposite Lumine. The Japan Traditional Craft Center provides a wealth of amazing products and this lovely shopping experience is richly rewarding.

In East Ikebukuro you have Parco Department Store and Seibu Department Store along with a host of other fashion companies in the streets of this side of Ikebukuro. Parco is another vibrant fashion zone for the younger generation meanwhile Seibu Department Store caters for a wealth of diverse products. Also, Seibu Department Store is blessed with stunning boutiques and clearly it is a great place to shop.

Also, on this side of Ikebukuro is Sunshine City which caters for shopping, entertainment, an aquarium, museums, observation deck, and hotel facilities. Sunshine City is an enormous attraction and the streets nearby provide a vibrant atmosphere. This applies to anime stores, entertainment, restaurants, nightlife, independent boutiques, and so much more.

Overall, the lifestyle of Ikebukuro is richly rewarding because this part of Tokyo provides so many options to enjoy. Not only this, the housing areas are relatively quiet and relaxing despite being very close to the buzzing central area. Ikebukuro is also very close to Shinjuku, Ueno, Shibuya, Harajuku, and other major parts of Tokyo. The price mechanism of the housing also means that this part of Tokyo is more affordable than most but of course you can also find places which are extremely expensive therefore much depends on your purchasing power. Yet when it comes to being a desirable place to reside in Tokyo then Ikebukuro provides a wealth of options.

All photo images taken by Modern Tokyo Times 

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

www.smackyglam.com　 –  Smacky Glam

http://www.esola-ikebukuro.com/　

http://orizzonti.co.jp/category/actuel/　

http://www.barbie-stores.com/　

http://www.bluebellmarket.net/index.html　

http://www.palgroup.co.jp/brands/doudou/　

http://www.turnojeana.jp/　

http://www.frees-mart.com/index.html　

http://m-muriel.jp/index.html　

http://www.elleva.jp/　

http://www.frame-works.co.jp/index_n.html　

http://blog-s.frame-works.co.jp/　 Spick and Span official blog

http://www.jolly-boutique.com/　

http://www.world.co.jp/opaqueclip/　

http://royalflash-jp.com/pc/home.html　

http://sanyo-i.jp　   -  Sanyo i Store (Sanyo Shokai Ltd)

http://www.parco.co.jp/customer/ikebukuro/IkebukuroPARCO_FloorGuide.pdf

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com