Kanako Itamae and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

The fashion sector in Japan is extremely competitive and each year new trends, vibes and companies from abroad enter the market. Likewise, Japanese fashion companies implement new policies in order to attract new customers and to maintain their loyal fan base. In recent times the more casual fashion scene is beginning to make a powerful statement within the plush Ginza district which is located in Tokyo.

Ginza is internationally famous for exquisite Japanese and international boutiques, stunning architecture and a very rich lifestyle. This reality also impacted on Yurakucho because you have so many top notch boutiques throughout this stylish district which flows naturally into Ginza. However, in recent times the casual fashion scene and major department stores like Lumine Department Store in Yurakucho are altering the fashion dynamics of both districts.

Another natural result of this is the growing youthful dynamics of fashion in Ginza which is creating a complete shopping experience for all age groups. The exclusive nature of fashion remains in Ginza and neighboring Yurakucho. Yet clearly the casual fashion scene is altering the dynamics despite still being secondary overall to the exquisite fashion scene, which still predominates in this part of Tokyo.

Therefore, in the past it may have appeared risky for companies like H&M, Uniqlo, Shimamura (Fashion Center Shimamura), and others, to target exclusive fashion districts like Ginza. However, this clearly no longer applies because despite the huge rent costs which exist in this plush fashion district. It is abundantly clear that more casual based fashion companies can not only survive within the fashion environment of Ginza, but they can also grow and develop. Similarly, the internal products being sold are also gaining in quality and style.

Another area which is proving beneficial is cost-cutting measures which are needed in order to offset the huge rental costs which exist in Ginza and other plush parts of Tokyo. This reality is creating improved dynamics within the casual fashion based sector and clearly this reality is impacting positively on profits in the short-term. Of course, if the fashion doesn’t keep up with demand then issues may result in the future related to costs. Therefore, casual fashion based companies need to keep up a strong momentum in order to stay one step ahead and this notably applies to the fashion based conscious scene of major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, Sendai, Nagoya and other powerful parts of Japan.

Intriguingly, it is also becoming apparent that companies like Shimamura which expanded overwhelmingly within the suburbs are now entering the urban areas. This company is also entering the urban fashion scene from strength and with confidence. Shintaro Seki, director at Shimamura in the planning area, comments that “Previously, fashion trends spread from urban areas to the suburbs…Now, it’s simultaneous. We have found that know-how accumulated by outlets in the suburbs is also useful in urban areas.”

Overall, the fashion scene in Ginza still remains distinctively exclusive despite the new casual fashion scene. Yet clearly the casual fashion scene is altering the dynamics of Ginza and this also applies to the age groups which visit this stylish and exquisite part of Tokyo. Therefore, fashion lovers from all angles are now being increasing catered for in Ginza despite the delightful angle of exquisite boutiques predominating.

Lee Jay Walker provided assistance to both main writers

Modern Tokyo Times Images

http://www.style-arena.jp/street/ls/167/5

http://www.style-arena.jp

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Nuray Lydia Oglu and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The endless enclosed cul-de-sac of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is leading to one dead end after another. He constantly warns that his patience is wearing thin while demonstrators are attacked and pushed around from parts of several major cities. At all times he seeks to justify his rhetoric by spreading half truths about the mass complexity of what is happening socially within Turkey.

This is the same Erdogan which is isolating Turkey apart from being a NATO puppet and doing the bidding of feudal Gulf nations which include Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, nearer to home then it is clear that Armenia, Cyprus, Iraq, Israel and Syria don’t trust his authoritarian approach to international politics. Lebanon is equally divided about Erdogan and Iran once more is alarmed by the reality that Turkey is a conduit for military arms, sectarian terrorists and providing a haven for the CIA, MI6 and various intelligence agencies. Meanwhile, the Russian Federation is watching events from a distance but clearly the Chechen and Caucasus Islamist angle in Syria is setting off alarm bells. However, in the world of Erdogan’s enclosed cul-de-sac then he only perceives himself to be a victim.

Turkey is meant to be a bridge linking Europe with the Middle East and a nation which will spread its secular and democratic thought patterns to regional nations. Yet under the troika of America, Turkey and the United Kingdom within the democratic world – alongside the dual sectarian and feudal monarchs of Qatar and Saudi Arabia – then Turkey is now a mere pawn within the respective geopolitical and sectarian religious games of the main allies of Turkey. At no point did Erdogan stop to think about the diversity within Turkey and how regional nations were increasingly distrustful of his new approach.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey, Bulent Arinc, is also hinting that the armed forces may be used against the citizens of Turkey. Arinc commented that “Our police, our security forces are doing their jobs…If it’s not enough then the gendarmes will do their jobs. If that’s not enough… we could even use elements of the Turkish armed forces.” He tried to downplay his own comments by stating that his words were taken out of context but this is all part and parcel of the psychological game being played by elites within the Erdogan government.

Deutsche Welle reports that “Meanwhile, Erdogan delivered a speech to hundreds of thousands of bused-in supporters. He accused the international press of a plot against him and his government: “CNN, Reuters, remain isolated with your lies!” he said, and attacked the protest movement once more. He described them again as “plunderers,” and threatened them: “You are no real Turks. Watch out: those who work against Turkey will have cause to tremble with fear.” Hotel owners who hid these “terrorists” would also have to pay the reckoning.”

The above language is further evidence that Erdogan is a dictatorial leader who happens to be the leader of a democratic country. It is also ironic that Erdogan doesn’t mind the media witch-hunt against Syria in order to spread sectarianism and sedition. However, when people can see the reality of “the real Erdogan” then he kindly tries to dehumanize the demonstrators by stating “You are no real Turks.”  Equally alarming, he is warning all opposition forces and ordinary private citizens which are against his leadership that you “…will have cause to tremble with fear.”

Currently, President Obama it talking about a no-fly-zone against Syria and this is something which Erdogan wanted before. However, while any no-fly-zone will be flouting international law it is clear that even America is now concerned by the internal situation in Turkey. After all, it is now apparent that Obama is thinking about a no-fly-zone by manipulating Jordan. Yet prior to the crisis in Turkey it is clear that America would have thought about initiating such a policy by utilizing NATO Turkey in relation to the many ratlines which are assisting terrorists and sectarian forces in Syria. Now, however, even Washington is having second thoughts about Erdogan internally while expressing outward support whereby mild condemnation is for saving international face.

Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, is dismayed by what is happening in Turkey. Merkel stated that “I’m appalled, like many others…I would like to see those who have criticism, who have a different opinion and a different idea of society, having some space in a Turkey that moves into the 21st century.”

Merkel continued by stating that “What’s happening in Turkey at the moment is not in line with our idea of the freedom to demonstrate or freedom of speech….They are terrible images … I can only hope that the problems will be solved peacefully.”

This is the problem of Erdogan because not only is he leading Turkey into regional isolation on the political front whereby the majority of regional nations don’t trust him; but he is also creating an internal enclosed cul-de-sac whereby he “un-Turks people” and forces them to the outside perimeter whereby their voices are crushed. Yet, the outward perimeter to his political and Islamist enclosed cul-de-sac is much larger and widespread than Erdogan perceives. Therefore, his rhetoric is alienating more and more people within Turkey and many individuals in the media must be alarmed by the fear factor related to them.

If Erdogan focused on areas whereby positive results have been made in relation to the economy and so forth; then these demonstrations would never have happened on such a scale. Yet he doesn’t just want to lead Turkey based on his electoral mandate. Instead, Erdogan wants to enforce his Islamist and political agenda on people who don’t support him and to shackle society by implementing his grand social designs on the electorate. If he continues to use powerful language and incite the rank and file of party members; then clearly social divisions are going to widen further within Turkey. Therefore, the problem for Erdogan is can he escape the enclosed cul-de-sac that he created in order to allow the citizens of Turkey to feel that they really reside in a democratic nation?

http://www.dw.de/erdogan-escalates-the-crisis/a-16886439

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

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By toshidama

The adjacent photograph shows a relatively new trend for very cheap, disposable tattoo sleeves… to what end, I’m not sure. I thought I’d try one on in the interests of researching the fashion in the kabuki theatre for representing heroes and villains illustrated in ukiyo-e prints and later imitated by huge numbers of men in Edo thereafter.

The fashion for (https://twitter.com/Toshidama) elaborate full body tattoos starts with the great print artist Kuniyoshi in the late 1820’s with his momentous series depicting the Heroes of the Suikoden (Water Margin). Most experts agree that the designs for his fully inked heroes were invented by Kuniyoshi and had not existed before his illustrations were published in 1827. This of course makes him hugely important, especially given the international trend for elaborate tattoos that we see all around us today. The history of Japanese tattoos is well attested, and I have written on the subject elsewhere. I want to look here at the solution the kabuki theatre arrived at to represent these tattooed characters – hence the current experiment.

I never quite believed that stretched painted silk body suits would be entirely convincing. I was mistaken – the $3 novelty item actually worked very well, given that the colour and design were very crude. Oddly, the wearing of it created a minor transformation – I am ashamed to say that this included the flexing of muscles and posing in front of a mirror. I can well believe that a more elaborate and better designed suit of tattoos would bring about a powerful ‘in character’ transformation on stage. The above print commemorates a memorable event in kabuki theatre. A danmari is a slow, tense and highly stylised dance. In this case, the choreographed performance between two superstars of the kabuki theatre acting out the role of two heroes of the Suikoden, (water margin) a popular compendium of stories relating the activities of a gang of good hearted bandits in ancient China. The performances were a highlight of the 1886 season at the Shintomiza theatre in Tokyo, partly because of the extraordinary quality of the dance and also because of the dramatic staging and the lavish tattoos that covered the bared bodies of both performers. Danjuro on the left has dragons whilst Sadanji has cherry blossoms.

Kyumonryu Shishin is also called the nine dragoned (hence the tattoos), Kaosho Rochisin was a former military captain turned monk. In the dance and the print, the two super-heroes are fighting in the snow. It is a very fine and memorable print. Kunichika must have been very taken with the performance since he created several versions of the piece each nearly identical.

It seems as though these silk suits were also used to enhance other bodily attributes. The print on the left shows Ichikawa Danjuro as Arajishi Otokonosuke wrestling with the magician Nikki Danjo – here transformed into a rat. It is clear that Danjuro’s naturally slight frame has been beefed up with tattoo sleeves painted with exaggerated musculature, the bottom edge of the costume visible at the ankles.

Also illustrated here are very fetching versions for the contemporary disco available for women as well as men. For a few dollars it is now possible to transform anyone into a hero of the Suikoden, if only for one night.

Toshidama Gallery is showing prints of kabuki actors throughout July. All prints are for sale and if you join our monthly newsletter you can take advantage of generous discounts on all our prints.

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/2013/06/13/tattoo-sleeves-instant-kabuki/

Laura Leiva & Horace C. White

Modern Tokyo Times

Gone are the days where employees primarily head to the office Monday through Friday – working at home or telecommuting has a wide range of benefits for both the employer and the employee. While any employee likely prefers to work from a home office, encouraging employees to telecommute has plenty of benefits, including a lower overhead – workspaces at the office can be smaller, given there are less employees to worry about at any one given time. Employees who work from home are generally happier and more productive, and as an employer, who wouldn’t want that?

There are a range of new websites popping up over the Internet that cater to these working-from-home employees – whether it’s a website that brings workers together to collaborate, or an online inspiration board to help your staff stay inspired and energetic. Here are three growing websites that encourage communication and creativity from those working at home:

Sqwiggle: One of the leading concerns of those who work from home, or employers of telecommuting offices, is there is a potential lack of communication between teammates. Whether the company thrives on peer interaction or not Sqwiggle offers an online space for employees to log on and work as a team through an instant audio and video feed. No matter where employees are, they can all meet together as a team in a quick, efficient manner.

Link: https://www.sqwiggle.com/

Shopinterest: Looking to increase awareness and sales of goods through the Internet? Shopinterest allows users to upload images of goods for sale so browsers can easily find what they are looking for, or be visible for Internet shoppers who like to browse and re-pin images on popular social networking sites like Facebook or Pinterest. Home-based businesses would highly benefit from a website such as Shopinterest, simply because it offers an affordable, efficient way to promote or advertise goods for sale.

Link: http://www.shopinterest.co/

Mural.ly: Some employees are visually inspired and Mural.ly is a single online destination for a team of creative people to come together and work from remote locations. The website allows users to create visual murals for the entire team to view and edit – ideal for those in the creative arts or sales industries who need to visually create as a team, but from within a remote or home office.

Link: https://mural.ly/

As more employees begin working from home, innovative websites and applications will unite peers together in an efficient, visual manner to keep the workflow moving at an acceptable rate. These three websites are just some of the unique options for the new telecommuting workforce.

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

It is with great sadness that Modern Tokyo Times hears about the death of Bahukutumbi Raman who was a foremost expert in the field of counter-terrorism, national security and geopolitics in India. Raman passed away after fighting against cancer during the later part of his life. However, true to the very nature of Raman he kept on churning out essential analysis of major international events related to India and the surrounding region until the very late stages of his life.

I myself contacted Raman several years ago when Modern Tokyo Times was in its infancy and he kindly allowed our agency to publish his work until we could get off the ground. The beauty of Raman is that despite knowing extremely powerful individuals within India and much further afield; he was also open to anyone who cared and had a valid message to give to the world. Therefore, it was a great honor when such a distinguished individual gave the Modern Tokyo Times a helping hand in the cut-throat world of the mass media.

His distinguished career runs of the pen naturally when it comes to security related issues and being at the center of safeguarding India. Raman is a former Additional Secretary (retired), Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of India. Also, Raman is the former head of India’s intelligence agency called Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) which applies to external threats. Therefore, by being a former head (and one of the founding fathers of RAW) of this important counter-terrorism agency; it is clear that Raman was very important within the power mechanisms of India in relation to national security.

Raman also was the director of the distinguished Institute for Topical Studies which is based in Chennai. Alongside this, Raman was also an important contributor to the South Asia Analysis Group. Outside of major institutions he frequently wrote about geopolitics, counter-terrrorism, military issues, national security and other related areas in relation to India and South Asia. He also kept in touch “with the street” by utilizing social media and was open to individuals irrespective of their position because he firmly believed in humanity.

India Express states that Raman was “One of the few officers who witnessed the creation of RAW in 1968 by RN Kao, his analysis on Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and China have been an asset to the intelligence community. In his memoir Kaoboys of Research and Analysis Wing: Down Memory Lane, he talked about his days in the agency.”

Raman cared passionately for the national security of India and to create mechanisms whereby terrorism and geopolitical land grabs by hostile nations could be dampened and repulsed before chaos broke out. On May 10, 2013, despite the pain of his severe cancer Raman bravely stated about the elections in Pakistan that “Better relations with India will be a minefield. The sensitivities of the army and the fundamentalist and jihadi organizations may have to be taken into consideration by the mainstream parties doing well in the elections before they take any major initiative for a policy change in a positive direction. They have to go very slow and keep down their enthusiasm. Better relations with India are, therefore, unlikely to be for tomorrow unless the PML (N) comes out with an absolute majority of its own.”

“India’s immediate policy interest ought to be not in the prospects for a quick improvement in the bilateral relations, but in the prospects for the better internal stability and better internal security in Pakistan with a genuine control over the activities of the TTP, the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LEJ) and other jihadi organizations.”

“India has had a contentious relationship with Pakistan ever since the two countries became independent in 1947. If this contentious relationship continues for some more years, we can live with it provided the new ruling dispensation in Pakistan shows the courage and foresight to take on the fundamentalist and jihadi organizations and defeat them in the interest of the people of Pakistan and at the same time persuade the Army to co-operate with the civilian leadership in this direction.”

Raman even in the last days of his life and suffering enormous pain showed the passion of youth but with the knowledge of age. India should note the wise words above because Raman was focused on seeing the events of the day and the reality of long term problems which he foresaw in the future.

Raman stated about international terrorism which is eating away at many nations based on various different factors that “How would I characterise international jihadi terrorism as personified by Al Qaeda and the International Islamic Front (IIF) formed by it in 1998, which pose the greatest threat to international peace and harmony? It is revanchist in character, medieval in its objectives and modern in its methods of operation. It wants to avenge through mass killings the imaginary wrongs which, according to it, were done to the Muslims of the world over the ages by the rest of the world. It is not a clash between civilizations. It is a clash between savagery and civilization. Civilization has to prevail over savagery and it will. It wants to take the Islamic world not forward into the modern world of democracy, prosperity and enlightenment, but back to the days of the Islamic Caliphate. It has mastered or is trying to master modern means of destruction in order to achieve the destruction of modernity and take the Islamic world back to its dark ages. “

“International jihad terrorism has only pretexts for its actions. It has no legitimate root causes. In its revanchist, it is like the Nazism of the past. Imagine what could have happened to the world if leaders such as President Franklin Roosevelt, Sir Winston Churchill, Gen. de Gaulle and others had said “let us first address the root causes of Nazism before we eliminate Adolf Hitler and his cohorts.” Where would the world be today? It would be equally absurd for us to say “let us first address the root causes of Al Qaeda and the IIF before we eliminate the leaders of Al Qaeda, the IIF and their cohorts.” They have to be eliminated first by all of us thinking and acting in unison.”

After the death of Osama bin Laden the distinguished Raman commented that “The death of the jihadi Frankenstein’s monster in the cradle of the Pakistan Army has thrown the spotlight even more intensely than till now on another Frankenstein’s monster— namely, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan.” 

“Since the 1980s,the ISI was was pampered, fed and fattened by the US along with the Pakistan Army. The US, which closed its eyes to the pernicious role played by this State Frankenstein’s monster in sponsoring terrorism of various kinds against India, Afghanistan and other countries, is confused and does not know how to act against this State Frankenstein’s monster after having killed the non-State monster.” 

“The end of Osama bin Laden will not be the end of international jihadi terrorism. The non-state head of international jihadi terrorism may be dead, but the State of Pakistan, which continues to use this terrorism, lives in a denial mode. Neither the State of Pakistan nor its civil society is prepared to admit that Al Qaeda and its surviving leaders have managed to escape arrest, prosecution or death so far, because of the support extended to them by the State of Pakistan. The same is the case with the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LET) and other jihadi affiliates of Al Qaeda.” 

Raman gave his soul to India and helped the international community because of his enormous wisdom. He passed away on June 16, 2013. However, he will live on within the people he touched based on his writing, knowledge and the humanity he showed the world.

Rest in peace dear Bahukutumbi Raman.

http://ramanstrategicanalysis.blogspot.jp/2013/05/impact-of-pak-elections-on-ties-with.html

http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?271660

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

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Kanako Itamae and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

Japan is internationally famous within the fashion sector for being very dynamic when it comes to the luxury fashion market. After all, even during a long period of mainly stagnation to little growth the fashion sector continues to develop and grow. Of course, major Japanese and international boutiques had to re-adjust during difficult times and because of the power of social media and technology. However, despite all the negatives related to the Japanese economy during the last two decades many plush fashion boutiques made rich pickings throughout Japan.

It is known that the French group which controls the running of Gucci and Puma will focus on major renovation in the land of the rising sun based on optimistic economic hopes. Last year PPR SA (name will change to Kering in the near future) made a powerful sales increase of 9% when it came to their luxury brands. In total PPR is in charge of approximately twenty different brands. This reality highlights the extensive nature of their amazing portfolio.

Also, it is known that Puma outlets will expand based on the mega store in Osaka which opened up for business in late 2012. The Puma store in Osaka is the largest in the world and this sums-up the power of this amazing city. Therefore, the mega store in Osaka will become a stepping stone for expanding within Japan and in other parts of Asia.

In Japan the luxury market is extremely powerful because of the status image, the need to feel fashionable and upwardly mobile. Other essential areas apply to the pleasure of refinement and where quality in many walks of life is deemed an essential ingredient for obtaining a powerful lifestyle. Alongside this is the power of customer service because it is important that companies appreciate and value their clients by treating people with courtesy and utter professionalism.

The above reality means that a complete shopping experience is highly appreciated by individuals who adore luxury boutiques. This is also noticeable when it comes to the décor of respective brands. After all, fashion lovers of luxury brands appreciate space, layout and a relaxing environment. Therefore, many angles need to be focused on outside of fashion itself and this can be seen by the power of architecture for crème de la crème brands and in relation to other important areas.

Department stores have also witnessed early growth in the first quarter of 2013 and this bodes well for all luxury brands. In Japan the elite department stores are famous for exquisite quality, amazing choices of the finest Japanese and international boutiques in the world and where quality is a must. Of course Tokyo hogs the limelight in Japan but the mega city of Osaka is equally amazing when it comes to fashion. Other cities like Kobe also play a powerful role because many internal trends often pass through this city first.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Technology is also growing in influence in Japan especially within the younger generation. This means that smartphones are now a major asset for some individuals when purchasing goods. Given this, it is essential that luxury brand companies respond to the changing social media in Japan. If not, then some will be left behind in the future because time, convenience, speed, and other essential areas, appeal greatly to many individuals.”

Another powerful aspect of the three mega areas of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya is that you have 64 million people within these three powerful zones. Alongside this is the purchasing power of many people within these three zones of major economic vitality. Not surprisingly, international brands continue to flock to Japan despite nearly two decades of negative economic growth. Indeed, this reality is also a strange safety net because it is clear that if companies can get everything right; then they can also grow and make rich pickings during long cycles of negativity within the overall domestic economy.

Therefore, with positive signs being forecast for 2013 it is clear that Gucci and many other luxury brands are hoping that Japan is going to enter a positive period of economic growth. Given this reality, it appears that Gucci senses good times ahead therefore this company will renovate and focus on making the most of the Japanese apple pie.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Paul Joseph Nzeribe and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Pakistan continues to be blighted by barbaric terrorist attacks against the minority Shia community and against anyone deemed to be worthy for killing in the name of Allah. In the latest suspected Sunni Islamist terrorist outrage women were killed in the region of Quetta. It is known that Sunni Islamist terrorist groups are opposed to women obtaining an education and in the past attacks have taken place against women in Afghanistan and Pakistan respectively.

The local police chief, Zubair Mahmood, commented that “It was an improvised explosive device placed in the women university bus.” Sadly, people in Pakistan are no longer shocked by such barbarity because it appears to be second nature for Sunni Islamist terrorists who just espouse hatred and kill innocents. Therefore, it is clear that Pakistan is a nation whereby religious minorities reside in fear and women can be killed for just wanting to study.

In Balochistan you also have a separatist movement and this sums-up the current situation in this country. After all, it is clear that mother India was carved up but is mainly Muslim Pakistan a nation which protects the citizens of this nation? Clearly the answer is no because Ahmadiyya Muslims and Shia Muslims are deemed apostates therefore both communities suffer untold persecution. Ironically, in mother India the Ahmadiyya and Shia don’t worry about being slaughtered and victimized by Sunni Islamist militants.

Other religious minorities including Christians, Hindus and Sikhs also suffer state institutional discrimination because many women are forced to convert to Islam but the state does little to intervene. Likewise, the dreaded blasphemy law can be used against Muslims and non-Muslims alike on a mere whim. This reality means that many people reside in fear.

In the past the government of Pakistan involved itself in Afghanistan alongside America, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom and other Gulf nations. The upshot of this was that Gulf petrodollars spread Takfiri and Salafi Islam alongside supporting indigenous Sunni Islamist militant organizations. America, Pakistan and the United Kingdom utilized the CIA, ISI and MI6 respectively in order to train Islamist fanatics against the communist government of Afghanistan in the 1980s. Several decades later and the folly of this policy can be seen by the fact that so many women reside in shadows in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Of course, you have places in both nations which are more open but the darkness of religious bigotry resides within terrorist organizations and in state institutions in both countries.

In a past article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “…if we turn the clock back to the early 1980s then nations like America, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom supported radical Sunni Islamists against communist Afghanistan. This meant that special operatives from within the CIA representing America and the ISI from Pakistan, and other operatives from nations like the United Kingdom, enabled international Islamists to get a foothold in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The upshot of all this was that a nightmare was created and today the world is witnessing this ongoing nightmare.”

“It is abundantly clear that the roots of September 11 are connected with the political naivety and crassness of nations like America and the United Kingdom. After all, it is clear that Saudi Arabia and the elites within Pakistan in the 1980s were intent on spreading Islamism based on religious and political factors. Yet for America and the United Kingdom it was about “turning the Islamist clock on and off” to when it suited.”

“Of course, the events of September 11 woke America up briefly but under the Obama administration it is clear that the “Islamist clock is being turned on” once more. The same now applies to nations like France, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar. After all, these nations are now behind many atrocities in Syria. This applies to killing religious minorities, killing pro-Sunni supporters of the government, beheading people, daily car bombings, torturing Syrian soldiers and a plethora of crimes against humanity.”

America, the United Kingdom and other allied forces are now fighting the same Islamist Sunni militant groups that they helped to train and support in the past. Likewise, the government of Pakistan managed to destabilize itself by supporting the Taliban and a host of other militant terrorist organizations. Therefore, the latest terrorist attack which killed at least 11 females can be traced to the barbaric policies of the past. This applies to unleashing Takfiri ideas, Salafi concepts and other dangerous religious ideologies.

Turning back to the attack against female students then the BBC reports that “Hospital sources say some of the wounded are in critical condition.”

“No group has said it carried out the attack.”

“Later another explosion was reported at the hospital where the victims were being treated, Police and militants exchanged fire there, according to eyewitnesses.”

It is clear that all educational institutions in Pakistan should come under the state and that religious institutions inciting sectarianism and hatred should be closed down. At the same time, Gulf petrodollars need to be stopped from spreading dangerous ideologies which are threatening the state of Pakistan. The ISI also needs to come under full control and the CIA and MI6 needs to be cleansed of using dangerous religious ideologies for short-term gains. After all, in Libya it is clear that the CIA and MI6 had links with terrorist groups in order to overthrow the Gaddafi government and the same applies to France. Now in Libya many Sufi shrines have been attacked and the small Christian population is facing more hostility. Currently it is also clear that the CIA, MI6 and their French counterparts are involved in many underhanded dealings with terrorist groups in order to defeat the government of Syria. However, the short term geopolitical gains become long term nightmares for people who reside in the nations where outside forces are meddling. Likewise, Gulf petrodollars are inciting Sunni Islamist hatred against Muslim minorities, indigenous Islam which is more liberal and against non-Muslims.

The latest terrorist attack which killed at least 11 females (death toll may increase further) in Pakistan is further evidence that radical Sunni Islam is a threat to all and sundry. Sadly, elites within America, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and several Gulf nations are never held accountable for their respective destabilizing policies and crimes against humanity. However, innocent Muslims and non-Muslims continue to be slaughtered by forces which were unleashed in the 1980s because the “Sunni Islamist genie” can’t be forced back into its lamp.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Utagawa Kuniyoshi like many ukiyo-e artists tackled the usual themes of the “floating world.” However, Kuniyoshi really came alive when focusing on mystical tales and Japanese folklore.  Yet this article is based on glimpses of tranquility and the other Kuniyoshi which is often neglected. After all, Kuniyoshi is associated  with his rich art depicting monsters and other highly suggestive images.

Ando Hiroshige and Katsushika Hokusai spring to mind internationally in the world of ukiyo-e but Utagawa Kunisada outshone all ukiyo-e artists in Japan during his lifetime. This applies to being the most commercially successful artist. However, you can never judge art by commercial values. Also, ukiyo-e artists are very varied and individuals will have their own particular favorite and certainly many people revere the rich imagination of Kuniyoshi.

Another reality belonging to ukiyo-e is that great attention is focused on pre-Meiji artists. Yet this hides the real beauty of ukiyo-e because Meiji artists brought a new dimension to this amazing art form. After all, the changing world, new technological advancements and other art forms influenced them.  They also had to compete with new artistic forces shaping Japan along with areas like photography which altered the artistic landscape. Not surprisingly, this brought about new freedom, ideas, styles and also fear.

The window of a new Japan was emerging despite Kuniyoshi dying before the revolutionary period of the Meiji Restoration. However, despite the changing world and all the turmoil that this would create irrespective if positive or negative. Alongside Kuniyoshi’s focus on strong images based on Japanese folklore, mystical tales and samurai warriors. He also depicts a  tranquil Japan based on his amazing landscapes that he produced.

Therefore, if individuals don’t know much about Kuniyoshi his tranquil art is a nice introduction and images of landscape are very soothing on the eye.  Indeed, in many ways it could be argued that while Kuniyoshi’s rich imagination focused on a world of mystical tales, Japanese folklore and powerful images of monsters – which may appear to be based on more myth than his landscape art.  It could be stated that the tranquil nature of his landscape was more of a myth because life was very hard in Japan for many people.

This is the beauty of art because one reflection to one individual may show a world that they want to see and envisage. However, to another individual it will be partly mythical or deemed beyond the realm of reality.  However, this is the mystery of art in all its manifestations.

Also, human nature is complex and the outside persona and internal reality is often very different.  Therefore, by providing a glimpse into the natural aspect of Kuniyoshi’s art I hope to highlight a rich aspect of this unique artist who had such a rich imagination.

Kuniyoshi was a truly amazing artist and he also responded to the political changes surrounding him in the 1840′s.  However, in a world of chaos and rapid change then his tranquil art appeals to individuals who seek nostalgia and a world based on blissful tranquility.

The Islamic revolution in Iran was originally based on a mythical past and in time many revolutionaries would regret. Similarly, the Russian Revolution was based on a new society and communist art depicted many images of unity and modernity based on equality.

It could well be that Kuniyoshi’s landscape images were more mythical than his images of monsters. However, that depends on the history that the individual wants to believe. Irrespective of the real reality of Japan during the lifetime of Kuniyoshi it is clear that his tranquil art is very soothing and this angle shows the richness of his art.

http://www.kuniyoshiproject.com/   – Fantastic website and just click onto the section you are interested in.

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Pierre Leblanc and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

Japan for the last twenty years was the nation to kick and look down at with disdain in the economic arena because the American model was deemed to be dynamic, flexible and based on market principles. The banking crisis in America clearly showed the world that state intervention was the order of the day. Therefore, several years later the “American apple pie” appears to be getting covered in more debt despite more recent positive news about the unemployment rate in early 2013.

The European Union is also engulfed by a different debt crisis but one in which the situation appears to be spreading and no solutions appear to be on the table in order to remedy the crisis.  Therefore, both America and the European Union seem to be following the Japanese model but with different characteristics. Also, ongoing demonstrations in Greece is  highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the unemployment rate in many European Union nations is alarming.

Ironically, despite Japan “throwing away two wasted decades” and the terrible events of March 11 when the earthquake unleashed a potent and deadly tsunami; the government of Japan stepped in and bought more of Europe’s debt in order to boost the European Union. However, given the huge economic crisis generated by the tsunami and the radiation crisis, it is difficult to imagine America coping with such a strong currency given all the problems which are happening in Japan. Not only this, Japan increased its support of America during this trying time by buying more American government bonds.

Given this, it appears that Japan keeps on ticking while America keeps on selling more of its debt and given the lack of government policy directed towards the weakening dollar, it does appear that the government of America is not responsive to the international community. Therefore, the currencies of Japan and Switzerland are paying a high price because the value of the Japanese yen isn’t based on market fundamentals. In saying this, it is clear that plans are in the pipeline under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe whereby the yen will weaken.

In The Economist article called Debt and Politics in America and Europe: Turning Japanese the opening paragraph states “A GOVERNMENT’S  credibility is founded on its commitment to honor its debts. As a result of the dramas of the past few weeks, that crucial commodity is eroding in the West. The struggles in Europe to keep Greece in the euro zone and the brinkmanship in America over the debt ceiling have presented investors with an unattractive choice: should you buy the currency that may default, or the one that could disintegrate?”

Currently Japan’s debt ratio is the highest in the world but nothing is clear in Japan because this nation still intervened and offered a helping hand to the European Union. Also, Japan’s unemployment rate remains relatively low when compared with the speed of unemployment in America and in other nations where it is even higher, for example Spain.  Therefore, while America’s debt may be half the rate of Japan’s it is clear that the government of Obama did not step in to provide support to the European Union and nor does the American government appear to care about stabilizing the dollar.

However, Japan, the nation of two decades of little economic growth and periods of stagnation, keeps on mystifying many because the real picture appears disjointed and difficult to work out.

Therefore, the Chinese Communist Party must be at a loss because many major democracies and economic powers are in crisis.  Also, more important, it does appear that some democratic nations are blighted by political systems which focus on political power at the expense of long-term benefits for society.

Turning back to the article in The Economist the author stated “America’s debt debate seems still more kabuki-like. Its fiscal problem is not now—it should be spending to boost recovery—but in the medium term. Its absurdly complicated tax system raises very little, and the ageing of its baby-boomers will push its vast entitlement programmes towards bankruptcy. Mr. Obama set up a commission to examine this issue and until recently completely ignored its sensible conclusions. The president also stuck too long to the fiction that the deficit can be plugged by taxing the rich more: he even wasted part of a national broadcast this week bashing the wealthy, though the Democrats had already withdrawn proposals for such rises.”

Xinhua which is a state owned media agency in China commented about the recent debt debacle in America by stating that “Given the United States’ status as the world’s largest economy and issuer of the dominant international reserve currency, such political brinkmanship in Washington is dangerously irresponsible.”

The Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, stated about America that “They are living like parasites off the global economy and their monopoly of the dollar.” The language by Vladimir Putin was strong but clearly many individuals share similar sentiments but based on more moderate language.

The Soviet Union bit the dust because it could no longer create a viable economic system which could maintain economic growth.  The Chinese Communist Party understood this therefore all emphasis was put on economic growth and generating wealth irrespective “if the mouse was communist or capitalist.”

Will certain members of the European Union and America learn from the failure of Japan and implement genuine measures? Or will they follow the Japanese model and do little in the short-term in order to preserve political power bases? The European Union also faces many internal convulsions because why should Germany face the brunt of supporting incompetent governments in the euro-zone?

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

http://www.economist.com/node/21524874 – The Economist

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Murad Makhmudov and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Outside nations involved themselves in Afghanistan over forty years ago by firstly supporting the same thought patterns that they are currently trying to prevent from ruling this nation in the modern period. Gulf nations, America, the United Kingdom and Pakistan created “this nightmare” whereby the rights of women didn’t matter one jot providing communist forces would be defeated. Similarly, outside nations then crushed the military and political system of Iraq which in turn unleashed chaos, sectarianism, the cleansing of Christians and other religious minorities like the Mandaeans; the end result being daily terrorism and then America and other allies leave the scene while chaos abounds. Not content with this, then Libya became another venture whereby today you just have chaos and a failed state. Despite this, major Gulf and Western powers have no shame because they are collectively destroying the fabric of society in Syria by stealth.

It matters not that America, France and the United Kingdom are bankrupting their respective nations at home while being involved in the deaths of untold numbers in distant lands. Major Gulf powers like Saudi Arabia and Qatar also have no qualms in supporting terrorist and sectarianism forces directly or covertly when Western hands are involved. Of course, democracy, religious freedom, the rights of women and pluralism at home in Saudi Arabia is not on the agenda. However, sowing the seeds of sectarianism and enabling the dark forces of terrorism to spread untold misery is on the agenda for Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other Gulf states involved in the many ratlines against Syria.

It is now known that the Jabhat al-Nusra have just slaughtered vast numbers of Shia Muslims because they showed part of their destruction themselves on social media while celebrating. France, just like America and the United Kingdom, responds to massacres like this – and killing a young boy for “allegedly” insulting Islam – by merely issuing more threats against the Syrian government.

The BBC reports that the “French foreign ministry spokesman Philippe Lalliot said the conflict in Syria was “at a turning point.”

“What should we do under these conditions to reinforce the opposition armed forces? We have had these discussions with our partners, with the Americans, the Saudis, the Turks, many others.”

“We cannot leave the opposition in the current state.”

Yet, these massacres are being done by Takfiri Islamists, the Free Syrian Army (FSA), various different terrorist and sectarian groups, and by mercenaries from all over the world. Indeed, religious minorities are being protected by the Syrian armed forces because Christians and others are not fleeing government controlled areas. On the contrary, they only feel secure in areas under the full control of the Syrian armed forces. It must be remembered that Christian bishops are being held by the allies of Gulf and Western nations. Also, when did so-called “opposition armed forces” belonging to “a mythical anti-Syrian group which is democratic” attack al-Qaeda backed terrorists? However, the illusions and lies will keep on coming by America, France and the United Kingdom.

Despite everything, America, France and the United Kingdom are pinning the blame on the central government of Syria while doing nothing to stem Gulf petrodollars from funding and supporting terrorism and sectarianism. The same Western states don’t care that Saudi Arabia supports killing all apostates to Christianity because how many decades does it take before religious apartheid nations are issued trade sanctions? This reality highlights the sham of Western nations coming up with the “democratic game” but it still doesn’t stop the mass media and senior politicians from whipping up hatred against independent Syria.

CBS News comments about the recent massacre of Shia Muslims by international Sunni Islamic terrorists. This news agency states that “With a steady drumbeat from some U.S. and European politicians calling for the West to arm Syria’s rebels, the composition of the rebel force on the ground is vital to understand, and the men who committed at least some of the killings in Hatla were not Syrian, and were not men who the West would want to arm.”

“In a video posted on YouTube, a man shows the dead bodies of several Shiite Syrians in Hatla, and angrily calls on his fellow Sunnis to “massacre” their Shiite compatriots. The man speaking is not Syrian, he is Kuwaiti, and very few of the armed “rebels” seen with him in the video sound Syrian — the accents are largely Kuwaiti and Iraqi. There were other, similar videos posted of the alleged massacre in Hatla.”

This reality makes a mockery of the “so-called civil war” because if it wasn’t for outside nations supporting terrorism, sectarianism and sedition then clearly this crisis would have petered out quickly. Syria is a nation whereby “civil war” applies despite vast numbers of international jihadists and terrorists coming from all over the world. Of course, political elites in America, France, Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom know this – alongside major media agencies in the Gulf and West – however, it doesn’t stop the “tools of oppression” from open manipulation.

CBS news also states that “While leaders in Washington, Paris and London continue to suggest the option of arming “vetted” rebel groups remains on the table, there’s strong evidence to suggest that previous covert efforts to funnel arms into opposition hands through neighboring countries (efforts which were reportedly green-lighted by the Obama administration) ended up arming the extremists.”

Under the current leaders of America, France and the United Kingdom they have assisted Gulf powers and international jihadist groups from reaching further into the Levant, North Africa and West Africa. At the same time, terrorism and sectarianism is increasing in Iraq and Syria because of the evil deeds of outside nations meddling into the internal affairs of both nations. The upshot of all this is daily massacres against the Shia; the spreading of hatred towards the Alawites in Syria; the cleansing of Christians in several nations; the destruction of Sufi shrines in Libya, Mali and Somalia; the murder of pro-Syrian Sunni Muslim clerics in Syria; women are firmly being put into the shadows and honor killings are increasing; and all this is being done by Takfiri Islamist groups, the Salafists, Gulf nations and the political leaders of America, France and the United Kingdom who are cohorts in this barbarity when it suits their geopolitical agendas.

Independent and secular Syria prior to outside meddling under Bashar al-Assad was a nation that took in millions of Iraqi and Palestinian nationals which had fled past Western policy objectives. At no point did the Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad reject people on religious grounds. On the contrary, vast numbers of Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims and Christians entered Syria in order to escape troubles in their respective nations of birth. However, this mosaic is now being crushed and Gulf and Western powers alongside NATO Turkey are trying to destroy the Syrian government by spreading sectarianism, destroying the economy, forcing people to flee from terrorism and other evil methods. At no point have the leaders of America, France and the United Kingdom condemned Gulf powers for supporting sectarianism and terrorism. Therefore, the latest massacre of Shia Muslims in Syria by Takfiri Islamists and the FSA should be firmly pinned on the nations supporting the destabilization of Syria and the same applies to the entire crisis.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57588904/syria-rebels-behind-alleged-massacre-of-shiites/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22870776

http://sana.sy/eng/337/2013/06/13/487202.htm

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Tomoko Hara and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (dubbed Omohara) opened just over one year ago and clearly the new dynamics of this adorable fashion place keeps on attracting huge crowds on a daily basis. The initial vibrancy during the early stages of Omohara remains strong today because of the freshness of the design and aspects of interaction which is related to events and utilizing social media. Therefore, the ambition of the early period of this new fashion landmark appears to be on course because Omohara already feels iconic.

Major landmark fashion stores in the plush environment of Harajuku and Omotesando includes Laforet Harajuku and Omotesando Hills. In 2013 a new development opened called Oak Omotesando which is focused on the luxury angle. This reality highlights the vitality of Harajuku and Omotesando when it comes to powerful exclusive fashion stores catering for many different angles.

Alongside this, you have iconic independent stores like 6%Dokidoki which caters for the buzzing kawaii angle to fashion and the chaotic punk image. Indeed, the buzzing youthful nature of Harajuku mingles freely with the plush and sophisticated nature of Omotesando. However, the beauty of Harajuku and Omotesando is that in the backstreets you also have a vibrant street fashion scene, independent stores, a lovely subculture angle and extremely stylish stores which appeal to people who adore lavish products. It is this amazing mixture which makes the entire zone one powerful hub for fashion because both fashion districts link up with Aoyama and Shibuya respectively.

In this sense, the founders of Omohara were extremely wise because this area is where Harajuku and Omotesando meets and naturally flows together. This reality means that the power of youth can be seen alongside the more sophisticated styles of people who adore high and exquisite fashion. Therefore, Omohara is located in a prime area whereby many different fashion trends meet.

Adorable fashion stores within Omohara include The Shel’tter Tokyo, Here’s, Charms, American Eagle Outfitters, Amo’s Style by Triumph, Tommy Hilfiger, Tocco Closet, Cheek by Archives, Choosy Chu, Glam Baby, Flag, Goa, Humor Shop by A-net, Minnetonka, Laboratory Work ReCurrent, Pink Trick, Rady, Rione Doras, Phoebe, Roomy’s and Jewelna Rose. Also, lifestyle stores are represented by AppBank Store, Aux Paradis, Hands Be and Tokyo’s Tokyo. Likewise, if you want to relax over a nice drink then Omohara Café and Starbucks enable fashion lovers to enjoy the electric buzz of Omohara.

Overall, it is clear that Omohara is a must place to visit for fashion lovers because all boutiques provide quality, style, creativity and a lovely freshness to fashion. The environment of Omohara is also extremely pleasing because of the lighting angle, spacious setting of each store and the user-friendly nature of many angles related to this vibrant place.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers

Modern Tokyo Times images

http://omohara.tokyu-plaza.com/en/　

https://twitter.com/OMO_HARA

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Boutros Hussein and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The government of Ethiopia is unfazed by psychological games being played by President Mohammed Mursi (Morsi) of Egypt over the Nile. Ethiopia is currently in the process of constructing a viable hydroelectric dam in order to provide essential power. Therefore, Ethiopia caught Egypt on the hop last month when this nation began to divert the Blue Nile while providing information to Sudan about construction developments.

Ethiopia clearly needs to modernize the infrastructure of this nation in order to lift many people out of poverty and to support many areas of the economy. The Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is also a sign of growing confidence within the body politic of Ethiopia. Mursi therefore should be very careful when he states that “all options are open.” After all, it is easy for events to spiral out of control and it doesn’t help a very complex region.

Mursi did comment that he wasn’t “calling for war” but then further complicated issues by also making it clear that Egypt could not afford to sit idly by while Ethiopia threatened to control the water flow. Clearly, the worry is that with Mursi and the Muslim Brotherhood coming under greater scrutiny at home; then he may decide to play the nationalist card. Therefore, events remain unstable because a slippery slope may occur whereby tensions continue to increase.

Mursi stated that “Egypt’s water security cannot be violated at all…As president of the state I confirm to you that all options are open…If Egypt is the Nile’s gift, then the Nile is a gift to Egypt.”

“The lives of the Egyptians are connected around it… as one great people. If it diminishes by one drop then our blood is the alternative.”

Mursi clearly wants to maintain a colonial ruling which denies Ethiopia the right to control its own water. Obviously, no nation can be held back by the past when it is clear that Ethiopia wasn’t responsible for the ruling which favored Egypt and Sudan in the first place. In saying that, it is also incumbent on Ethiopia to be sensitive to the needs of other nations which rely greatly on the water resources emanating from this country. Ethiopia is therefore stipulating that the interrupted flow will only take place for a set period during the building of this important dam.

Tedros Adhanom, the Foreign Minister of Ethiopia, replied by stating  that “Ethiopia cannot remain poor….It must utilize its resources to lift its people out of poverty.”

Also, other upstream nations are disillusioned by the shenanigans of a past colonial agreement which violates their respective rights to exploit the water that they are blessed with. Egypt should be careful because regional powers like Uganda would not standby and allow Cairo to bully the region. After all, just like events between Sudan and South Sudan; it is clear that regional black African states are not interested in “a colonial Arab straightjacket.”

Sudan which is beset by many internal issues appears to be on board because this nation understands that Ethiopia isn’t threatening regional stability. This in itself further isolates Egypt because Sudan is a major downstream nation.

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/73769/Egypt/Politics-/Ethiopia-dismisses-Egyptian-psychological-warfare-.aspx

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