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Event:Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro

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Sakura Summer Festa party with 300bar 
at: Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro 
date: 19:00-22:00 Aug 6 (Fri) 

300bar Party @ サクラカフェ池袋
		APRIL 23. 2010 19:00-22:00
		銀座300BARの人気バーテンダーが
		サクラカフェ池袋に集合!外国人で賑わう
		オープンテラスを舞台に
		インターナショナルなパーティ
		先着50名様にはゲームに参加できる特典も

Upcoming event

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On 8th of August, you can watch Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy) Performance and experience Shodo at our cafe.

shodo.jpg

 

You can get more info on our website.

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/specialdeals.php#events

 

And you can see the photos of past events too.

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/hotel_event.php

Fire works festival!

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1st August Kanagawa shinbun fire works festival in Yokohama!

cover1.jpgYou can see many people who wearing Yukata.

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Have you been fire works festival??

Fire works is great, but there is too many people...

I usualy don't go Fire works festival except yokohama festival.

You know why? I live in Yokohama♪

I know great view place but ..it's secret!

 

 

 

 

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Is one of the summer ivent in Japan!

すいか1.jpg

Did you ever seen it??

It's amazing!

I usually cannot make any hit to the watermelon(poor player!)

After hitting it, ofcourse, they eat it!

Please try with your friends beside the ocean in this summer!

(these pictures are from other website.)

Market in Yoyogi Park

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I think that Tsukiji fish market is the most famous market in Japan among tourist from abroad.

 

I'd just like to introduce another market near from our hotel.

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The name of it is Tokyo Asaichi or Earth day market.

 

It is held once a month at Yoyogi Park.

 

Next market is held on 15 of August (from 10AM to 4PM).

Animation comes realization

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This weekend,many robot character form the animation comes realization.

In Shizuoka,very famous robot character call "Gundam"got down on the ground.

 

ガンダム.jpg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Yamanashi,a robot from the animation which became the social phenomenon in Japan "Neon Genesis Evangelion" reality shows up the body.

 

エヴァンゲリオン.jpg

 

 

 

Who is going to be next?

 

トランスフォーマー.jpg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Probably it is transformer,I hope!!

Local festival in Hatagaya

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In summer, it's easy to find local festival everywhere in Japan.

 

Today and tomorrow, local festival is held in Nishihara shopping street.

P1010412-thumb-500x375.jpg

It takes about 1 minute on foot from our hotel.

 

I think it's good chance to know much more about Japan.

 

Here's the entry about the local festival.

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/blog/2009/09/local-summer-festival-in-hatag.html

FIREWORKS on July 24th.

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Today, Chofu fireworks held on!

はなび1.jpg

Many guest of Sakura Hotel Hatagaya went to watch the great fireworks!

Because it's easy to reach there from this hotel!

Access:

Hatagaya→Keio-Tamagawa station (by Keio-new line to Sasazuka, and transfer to Keio Line)

It takes 30 minutes.

There are many fireworks in Tokyo, on July and August.

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/fireworks2010.html

Enjoy your tokyo life!

Waterworks

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Have you ever heard of waterworks?

 

It consists of water, light and music. Fire isn't included.

image01.jpg

 

You can watch this interesting art at Tokyo midtown(Roppongi) till 29th of August.

image02.jpg

Le Tour de France

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Le Tour de France is going on at France and the surrounding nations right now.

 

   

ツール・ド・フランス.jpg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am looking forward to watching this race every year.

Because the bicycle race has few pleasure for other races.

 

ツール・ド・フランス2.jpgI think bicycle race is for the human being and the human.

Le Tour de France is until 25th of July.

 

ツール・ド・フランス3.jpg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you have not see, You should see it!!!

Pokémon Shinkansen

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From 17 of July, trains which are decorated with Pokémon's illustration have started running on Shinkansen railway of JR.

pokemon.jpg

These special ver. trains run till 20th of September.
If you are lucky, you can watch and/or take them at Tokyo or Shinagawa stations in Tokyo.
Pikachuuuuuuuu!!!! :-)

Ekiben

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If you are going to ride long distance,please try 『Ekiben』.

 

ekibenn.jpg『Ekiben』is box of lunch only sale at train station.

 

 

 

 

 

There is so many kind of 『Ekiben』 in Japan.

 

ekibenn2.jpgIt is different by a season and the area too.

 

ekiben3.jpg

 

 

 

So, if you have a chance to stop at station, try it!!

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ekibenn 5.jpg

Nintendo

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23 yaers ago today,Nintendo started sale 『Family Computer(Nintendo Entertainment System)』

 

FC.jpg

 

 

 

It was sensational to me,because you can play video game at home!!

 

 

 

 

 

However,It was very expensive and I was not able to buy by my self as student.

But some of my friends bought it.

 

マリオ.jpgFrom the time,his room is became our an amusement arcade.

It is a very good memory for me.

 

International Tokyo Toy Show 2010

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sq_banner1.gif

International Tokyo Toy Show 2010 is held this weekend at Tokyo Big Sight.

ariake_1s.jpg

 

Here's the URL of website about this event.

http://www.toys.or.jp/toyshow/2010_files/english/outline.html

" SUMMER ROCK NIGHT 7/17・18 "

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17:00 START

300BAR GINZA 8-chome
         〒104-0061 TOKYO CHUO-KU GINZA
         8-3-12 DAINI GINZA COLUMN BLDG B1
         03-3571-8300
         info@300bar-8chome.com
http://www.300bar-8chome.com/english/index.html
サマーロックナイト04.jpg

Light festival in Odaiba

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On 18th and 19th of July, an event is held in Odaiba Seaside Park.

 

They set out candles on the beach and draw geoglyph like below.

Thumbnail image for 21k6s300_04.jpg

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 This year's theme is "summer constellation."

 

21k6s300_01.jpg Thumbnail image for 21k6s300_02.jpg

 

 

Roller Coaster Memorial Day

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In 1955 July 9th,First real roller coaster was built in Koraku-en amusement park in Tokyo.

RC.jpgSo,tomorrow is Roller Coaster Memorial Day in Japan.

 

 

It's been 55years,Japanese Roller Coaster is evolved.

This is latest Roller Coaster in Koraku-en amusement park.

 

RC2.jpgIt's pass through the building!!

 

 

Morning glory festival

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Today is the last day of mornig glory festival in Iriya.

kincho-bana.jpg

 

It is held from 6th of July to 8th of July every year.

During the period, there are more than 100 mornig glory shops on the street.

oteire.jpg

 

This event attracts about 400,000 people.

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Star festival

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Today is Tanabata-festival!

七夕祭り3.jpgTanabata is the Star Festival originates from Chinese legend of the two bright stars, Altair and Vega.
Vega, a weaving girl, and Altair, a cowherd boy, loved each other.

They had so much fun being together they stop working hard.

The king got angry and separated them by the big river or the Milky Way.

He allowed them to meet once a year across the Milky Way only on the night of July 7th.
On that day, people decorate bamboo branches with paper strips and ornaments to celebrate their reunion.
It is believed that a wish comes true when you write your wish on the paper strips and hang them on the bamboo.

(This is the content from other website.)


We wished that there will be no war in the world, and happiness for all the people.七夕2.jpg

 

↓This is the picture of the festival in Asagaya, Tokyo. One of the biggest festival.

(All of the pictures are from other website.)

七夕1.jpg

 

 


We had an event at Sakura Cafe Hatagaya on 3rd of July 2010.

The content was, Rakugo(=Japanese traditional comedy drama) in English, and International Reception Party.:

   1. Live Music by 2 artists (Mr. Tetsuhiro Ogawa as guitar and Mr. Possasr piano.) 

   2. Rakugo in English byMs. Kimie Ohshima.

   3 .International Reception Party

↓ Rakugo master : Ms. Kimie Ohshima,

_oshima_2.jpg 

The many audience gathered to hear this great oppotunity.

Her interesting story-teller made us much laughing and laughing!

 

☆★☆★   Reception Party Started!  32 people from many countries joined !!   ☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

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Yellow T-Shirt man is an

Pianist→

"Poss-san"

 

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Ms.Kimie Ohshima(white t-shirt lady) enjoyed to talk with many guests.

Her English is quite well!

 

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→(Left)Nory (Manager in Sakura Hotel Hatagaya), and (Right)Mr. Tetsuhiro Ogawa, colaborated! 

 It was wonderful experiece to meet many people from all over the world.

We all enjoyed this good conversation.

Wished to meet them again in the future!!

Jimbocho "ONE PIECE" Carnival

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Luffy & the Straw Hat Pirates are coming to "Jimbocho" in this Summer!!!

Jimbocho "ONE PIECE" Carnival
[July 17 ~ Aug 1st]


Do you like Japanese Manga (comics)? One of popular Japanese comics, "ONE PIECE" is coming to Jimbocho!!
Especially on weekend, there are "ONE PIECE" illustrations' exhibitions & many stalls on the street! You can also enjoy stamp rally and "ONE PIECE" original menu/goods to get an original novelty! Stay at Jimbocho hotel and enjoy this event!!


http://www.sakura-cafe.asia/jimbocho/english/news/onepiece.php


Japanese Fireworks

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Fireworks in Tokyo
Have you seen "Japanese Fireworks"? During the summer in Tokyo, many fireworks festivals are held.
Street vendors set up stalls to sell various drinks and staple Japanese food (such as Yakisoba, Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, kakigori (shaved ice)), and traditionally held festival games, such as Kingyo-sukui, or Goldfish scooping. Even today, men and women attend these events wearing the traditional Yukata, summer Kimono , or Jinbei (men only), collecting in large social circles of family or friends to sit picnic-like, eating and drinking, while watching the show. Don' miss "Fireworks" in Tokyo!
*This schedule might be subject to change. Please ask staff for more details.

[July]
Date Fireworks Show
(How many fireworks)
Nearest station Access From Asakusa
24-July(Sat)
19:20-20:30
Chofu (12000) Keio
tamagawa
Keio Line 50 min. by train
27-July(Tue)
19:20-20:20
Katsushika (10000) Keisei
Kanamachi
Keisei Line 20 min. by train
29-July(Thu)
19:30-20:30
Adachi (12000) Kitasenjyu Tobu, JR, Tokyo Metro, Tsukuba EXP 5 min. by train
31-July(Sat)
Sumidagawa:Asakusa
(21500) 19:05-20:30
Asakusa Toei, Tokyo Metro, Tsukuba EXP 10 min. on foot
[Our Hostel's event] Hanabi & free SUSHI PARTY (31-July 16:00~)
Come join us for sushi making! After that, we are going to see This "Sumidagawa Hanabi" (Big fireworks).
Tachikawa (5000)
19:20-20:30
Tachikawa JR Chuo line 60 min. by train
Hachioji (3300)
19:00-20:30
Hachioji JR Chuo line 70 min. by train

[August]
Date Fireworks Show
(How many fireworks)
Nearest station Access From Asakusa
1-Aug(Sun)
19:30-20:40
Koto (4000) Minami
Sunamachi
Tokyo Metro Tozai Line 30 min. by train
7-Aug(Sat)
Edogawaku (14000)
19:15-20:40
ShinoZaki or Shinkoiwa Toei Shinjyuku line(shinozaki),JR Sobuline(Shinkoiwa) 30 min. by train
Oume (3800)
19:30-20:40
Oume JR Oume line 110 min. by train
Itabashi (11000)
19:00-20:45
Takashima
-daira
Toei Mita Line 47 min. by train
10-Aug(Tue)
19:30-20:30
Seisekitamagawa (5000) Seiseki
Sakuragaoka
Keio Line 60 min. by train
14-Aug(Sat)
19:00-20:20
Tokyo Bay (12000) Kachidoki or Toyosu Toei Oedo line(Kachidoki) or Tokyo Metro Yurakuchiyo Line(Toyosu) 24 min. by train
19-Aug(Thu)
19:30-20:30
Jingu (12000) Gaien-mae Tokyo Metro Ginza line 30 min. by train

Rakugo Event on 3rd july

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METRO GHIBLI Poster Gallery

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26 posters of Studio Ghibli animated films will be exhibited

at Kiyosumishirakawa station from 17th of July to 31st of August.

2010-37_01.jpg

 

You can enjoy it from 8AM to 9PM.

About a 20-minute subway ride to get there (from our hotel)

2010-37_03.jpg

Baloon Twisters!

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I joined the event of baloon in yokohama.

It was great Event!

Everything made by Baloon♪

From begginer class to Professional, everybody can join end enjoy this event.DSCF6598.JPG

DSCF6614.JPG DSCF6607.JPG DSCF6606.JPG DSCF6605.JPG

                  DSCF6627.JPGDSCF6620.JPG

     DSCF6654.JPG DSCF6637.JPG

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                              Baloon Flower

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                                     Baloom eyes DSCF6663.JPG

 

              

        DSCF6671.JPG          DSCF6672.JPG        I made a dog. It takes 20 min♪ 

                                                   It was good experience!

Partial eclipse of the moon

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About 19:30 to22:00 tomorrow night (June 26),You can see partial eclipse of the moon.

Half of the moon is going to be lacking about 20:38,So that time Partial eclipse of the moon is easy to observe.

Unfortunately Tokyo is seems to be cloudy tomorrow night.

I wish it is going to be clear night!!!

月食.jpg

 

Cafe Menu top 5!!

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★☆★Sakura Cafe Hatagaya will be 1 years old on Jun. 30 2010.★☆★

Today, I'll write the top 5 of cafe menu!

★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆

【drink】  lanking top 5

iloveyou.jpg imissyou.jpg1.Cofee @190~☆☆☆☆☆  2.Cafe la te @250~☆☆☆☆  3.Darjeeling tea @190~☆☆☆

→4.I miss you(Japanese houji-tea with milk form and chocolate powder ) @250~☆☆

←5.I love you (mate tea with milk form and cinnamon ) @250~☆

 【food】  lanking top 5

yakisoba.jpg morning.jpg 1.sweet snacks @160~☆☆☆☆☆  

→2.breakfast from outside guest       @350☆☆☆☆  

 3.toast set @400☆☆☆pizza.jpg

→4.pizza Peperroni @980☆☆

←5.yakisoba @500~ &

              Spagetti Bolognaise @650~ &

              Spagetti Carbonara @650~☆

 【beer 】  lanking top 5

title-beer.jpg1.Premium YEBISU  @450☆☆☆☆☆                    4. HEINEKEN @450☆☆

2.SUNTORY The Premium Malt's @450☆☆☆☆       5. BUDWEISER@450☆

3.Colona  @500  ☆☆☆

★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆

 

How about to order them when you'll stay at Sakura Hotel Hatagaya!?

Sakura cafe open 24 hours!!         Staff  always waiting you!! cafe staff.jpg

 

Go Go Japan !!

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Tonight (Actually tomorrow morning) , Japan VS Denmark from 3:30AM.

Most Japanese are now confronted to make a choice :

Watch game all night long without sleep and next morning become like this at office

ばll4.jpgAnd get yelled at by the boss for fall asleep. 

ball3.jpg

 OR Miss the game and cannot talk about it with co-worlers.

ばll5.jpg

Anyway, Go Japan! Go! Make shoots like

ball1.jpg

 

 

World Cup trophy

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World Cup trophy ismade by Italian sculptor.

The design is chosen from general open call for participants.

This design is player who made decide a shot,raise both hands , and hold out a hands to the earth.

 

ワールドカップ トロフィー.jpgBut is this looks like hands for foul?

World Cup in Tokyo

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These past several days FIFA World Cup in South Africa is heating up!!

If you want heat up more,you must go to World Cup in okubo Tokyo!!

 

焼き肉ワールドカップ.jpgWorld Cup is name of Korean barbecue restaurant,and it is near to Shinjuku station.

If you want try,ask us to direction!!

Go Paraguay !!

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Back to 2002 FIFA World Cup, my home town MATSUMOTO, Nagano was chosen for Paraguay national team training camp base.

Whole town was so ecited to see the world famous best players. GK at the time Chilavert visited my middle school to practice with school soccer team. Still Matsumotors root Paraguay team!

para1.jpg

The last match was draw 1-1 with Italy (Champion of 2006)

 

Tonight, they will play with Slovakia from 8:30 pm.

Go Paraguay!

 

 

 

Thumbnail image for Thumbnail image for para2.png  For Ladies,

Found Eye candy from Paraguay Team.

Roque Santa Cruz  9

 

Now, you cannot miss the game!

Candle Night

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Tomorrow is the summer solstice.

 

Some encourage us to turn off a light from 8PM to 10PM and light a candle instead on the summer solstice and on the winter solstice.

 

Associated events are held at Zojyoji (from 6PM to 9PM) and Tokyo Midtown (from 7PM to 10PM) today.

Thumbnail image for Thumbnail image for 増上寺~1.JPG 

Zojyoji is close by Tokyo tower, and the nearest station of Tokyo Midtown is Roppongi.

 

You can enjoy fantastic scenery there.

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This is information of the first anniversary event in Sakura Cafe Hatagaya.

らいブログ.JPGShe is the rakugo story teller. Ms. Ohshima!  Very beautiful Japanese woman!

落語'rakugo' means Japanese traditional verbal comedy.

I guess you cannot stop with laughing!  Hahha!! Hahha!! Hahha----!! :)

【Event information】

Date:July 3rd, 2010        Location:Sakura Cafe Hatagaya (in Sakura Hotel Hatagaya)

Admisshion: 500 yen for English rakugo. 16:30~

                   1000 yen for reception party.18:00~

Please come&join it!

Gameeeeeeeee

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World cup getting heated as all teams finished first matched.

The next day of Japan Team won the first game, people looked like zombi on trains by not had enough sleep of busted all night long.

Next match will be on June 19th: 8:30 pm kick off.

WC2.jpgWe are airing and recording games you missed. Don't in your room & watch games alone. Cheer your team with our guests and get more excited.

Even during the day (specially rainy days), you can watch recored games @ cafe. Just give us your request of a match.

Thumbnail image for WC1.JPG Let's get excited !!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Huge Object in Odaiba

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Last summer, Gundam appeared at Shiokaze Park in Odaiba.

 

This summer, Huge Hello Kitty will appear at Odaiba Kaihin Kohen (Odaiba Seaside Park).

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The image above is from http://www.kahoku.co.jp/news/2010/06/2010061401000500.htm.

 

It is about 8 meters tall.

I think it's huge and she is no longer a kitten.

What should we call her?

 

In the evening, it will be illuminated.

 

You will be able to see it from 9th of August 2010 to 22nd of August 2010.

Rugby World Cup

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FIFA World Cup is started in South Africa.

But did you know the other rugby football has World Cup too?

 

ラグビーワールドカップ.jpgRugby World Cup is same as FIFA World Cup.

Once in four years, select world No.1 of the national team of the rugby.

Rugby World Cup become thirdly the bigest sports event in the world,next to FIFA World Cup, Game of the summer olympics.

 

ラグビーワールドカップ2.jpgThe Rugby World Cup is held in Japan in 2019.

World Juggling Day 2010

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On 19th , 20th June it is World Juggling Day!!!

Do you know juggling??

Juggling is a skill involving moving objects for entertainment or sport.

The most recognizable form of juggling is toss juggling, in which the juggler throws objects up to catch and toss up again. 

jugg.jpg            jugg2.jpg

 

 In Tokyo , we will have workd juggling day event in Yoyogi park.

You can walk from Sakura Hotel Hatagaya.

http://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/english/index.html

Last year World juggling day in Osaka.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE7zAwHI-s4&feature=player_embedded#! 

 

If you interested in it, just join them.

No item no experience okay!!!

They will ask you 'do you want to try??'

 

Happy Birthday DD!!

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Guess who's birthday is today?

It's Donald Duck!!

 

ドナルド.jpgHe was born in June 9th 1934.

Donald Duck is 76years old!!

And did you know his full name?

His full name is Donald Fauntleroy Duck.

ドナルド2.jpgHappy Birthday Donald Duck!!

 

 

 

Hatagaya Event 3rd July

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We will have a event at Sakura hotel hatagaya!!

Have you seen Rakugo??

Rakugo (落語 literally "fallen words") is aJapanese verbal entertainment. The lone storyteller (rakugoka, 落語家) sits on the stage, called the Kōza (高座). Using only a paper fan (扇子, "sensu") and a small cloth (手拭, "tenugui") as props, and without standing up from the Seiza sitting position, the rakugo artist depicts a long and complicated comical story. The story always involves the dialogue of two or more characters, the difference between the characters depicted only through change in pitch, tone, and a slight turn of the head.

 

                  Rakugo-sanmafestival.jpg                    http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/specialdeals.php#events

 

Also our cafe is 1st Anniversary !!

We will have a party after Rakugo event.

I look forward to seeing you in this events!

 

Join to Tokyo Photo Contest!

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★★★Hello  Everybody!★★★

This is an ivent from Sakura Hotel Group!

FACE2.jpg

Please upload your best photo of Tokyo/ Japan.

To Sakura Hostel or Sakura Hotel 'facebook ' fan page (serch sakura hotel).

We will deside the winner by numbers of 'like'. (in a couple of month)

Our first prize is 'free stay for one night at Sakura Hotel/Hostel (you can choose the acommodation) .

 ★★★Join to the contest with your favorite special photo of Tokyo!★★★

 

Noh

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Noh Workshop is held from 18:30 today (4th June 2010)

at Sakura Hotel Jimbocho (our sister hotel).

noh_new.jpg

 

You can get more info about the event at thier website.

http://www.sakura-hotel.co.jp/index.html

 

You can watch the video recorded during the workshop.

It was held on 2nd April 2010, too.

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=380774282667

 

FYI, Noh is a major form of classic Japanese musical drama

(play) that has been performed since the 14th century.

Furin -Japanese wind-bell-

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The Furin(wind-bell) is necessities of the Japanese summer.

 

風鈴.jpgBecause it is got a feeling of enjoying the cool breeze without an electric appliance.

There is the place production experience of such a Fuurin for this summer.

 

風鈴2.jpgIf you are not decided today's destination, how is this experience ?

 

風鈴3.jpghttp://www.edofurin.com/

Evening of Fireflies

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Summer is coming in Tokyo.

Early summer in Japan is the rainy season, but it is also the season of fireflies.

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There is a spot in neighboring town of Tkyo city, where you can see and watch the flight of fireflies.

The spot is Kasayato-Shinsui park in Inagi city.

From 4/Jun to 13/Jun only, you can meet these fragile and beatuiful lights of fireflies in that park.

The park's nearest station is Wakabadai Station on Keio-Sagamihara Line.

From Hatagaya Station which is the nearest station of our Sakura Hotel Hatagaya,

you can reach Wakabadai Station within mere 40 minutes.

From Wakabadai Station, you can go to the park simply following the signboards, like these.

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Fireflies need unspoiled running water.

So, seeing them in the midst of Tokyo Metropolis is very exotic.

Let's go and enjoy their pale green signaling lights.

But, Inagi city is one of the residential suburbs of Tokyo,

and so the surrounding area of the park is full of common houses.

To keep its quiet atmosphere, even if you get excited with the scenery full of fireflies,

do not be noisy please.

Cherry Blossom season is over in one month ago in Tokyo.

Usually Cherry Blossom is bloom from the south to the north in Japan,like starts from Okinawa and end it Hokkaido.

Normaly it is takes about one month and half.

But this year,earliest bloom was march 2nd and slowest bloom was Yesterday in Hokkaido.

It is takes 73days.

It was the longest days sence 1953.

Will this be an influence of Global warming?

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Party/Club/Dance music Archives

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Are you looking for cool night clubs?

You should check this out!

http://www.clubberia.com/

http://www.clubberia.com/clubs/Tokyo

 

Spend a special night out!!!

MJ's Achievement

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TT.JPG

went to Tokyo Tower to see 『MICHAEL JACKSON The Official NEVERLAND Collection』 last week.

 

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There is over 280 mements from his mansion "Never Land" of State of California Santa Barbara.

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The gate of "Never Land" made from black marble.

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If interested in, You must go to Tokyo Tower!!

The exhibition opens until July 4!!

 

Design Festa

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Design Festa vol.31 is going to be held in Tokyo Big Sight this weekend.

http://www.designfesta.com/index_en.html

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Design festa is the international art event that is held biannually since 1994. 

 

You can get admission free ticket at the reception of Sakura Hotel Hatagaya

or Sakura Cafe Hatagaya http://www.sakura-cafe.asia/hatagaya/.

Sakura hostel asakusa is sister hostel of  Sakura hotel Hatagaya:)






Wanna see the big fighters? We do!
Let's go see the Grand Sumo Tournament from sakura hostel asakusa on May 12 (Wed) & 19 (Wed)!!
The awesome 2 weeks battle starts on May 9th!
Don't miss it or you'd have to wait till Sep.
2010 for the next battle in Tokyo!




Sanja Matsuri
[May 14th (Fri) - 16th (Sun)]

The Sanja Matsuri, a symbolic festival of Tokyo, is one of the largest festivals of mikoshi (portable shrines) held in Asakusa. With amazing vigor, men carry several dozens of portable shrines on their shoulders!!

                                          
Walking distance from sakura hostel asakusa, enjoy this event :)




MATURI

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How are you?

It' a beautiful sunnyday!!

 

Yesterday I went to the MATURI .

They carried a mikoshi portable shrine in a festival.

I like MATURI style!!!Wasshoii!!!

she is Irina (sakura hotel Jimbocho staff)

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The sounds of drum and flute made me happy during the MATURI.

 

神保町祭3.jpgThe MATURI was over and everyone was tired but look happy.

Thank you very much!

(Event notification) 5/4 @Jimbocho

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We have a sister hotel in Jimbocho (Sakura Hotel Jimbocho).

 

They take part in local festival with their guests at this time of year.

 

You can carry portable shrine and share atomophere in Japanese local festival.

 

You can get more info there↓

http://www.sakura-hotel.co.jp/index.html

 

It might be a precious experience for you, I think and I hope.

 

If you have a plan to visit Tokyo in late September, you can join local festival and carry  portable shrine with us.

 

The below is the article about last year's local festival in Hatagaya.

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/blog/2009/09/mikoshi.html

u_1.jpg  

Strawberry picking in Tokyo

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Throughout the year, you can buy strawberries in Japan, because of greenhouse cultivation.

But the best season of strawberry is May and June.

I had not known about its best season.

But Thai girls who were our guests asked me where is the best place to go to strawberry picking,

I checked and noticed about it.

For your information, the place I recommend for strawberry picking in Tokyo is Niikura-Noen, which means "Niikuras' Farm".

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From here Sakura Hotel Hatagaya, going to Niikura-noen is rather easy.

By using Keio New Line / Keio Line, you can reach it's nearest station "Seiseki-Sakuragaoka."

If you are lucky, no need of transfer of train. (But most of the cases, you need 1 transfer.)

From Seiseki-sakuragaoka station, there is a buss line (No. 9).

And with 10 minutes riding, you can arrive at "Ochikawa" buss stop, which is almost next door of the farm.

http://niikuranoen.com/

 

At our Sakura Cafe Hatagaya, we sell fresh drink full of strawberry.

 

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This drink is named as "Shinkai-no-berries", which means berries in the deep sea.

Please come and enjoy our spcial drink!

 

Thank you very much for coming to 
"Kamishibai(Paper drama) & Izakaya nihght " in Hatagaya 
on Saturday, April 17th,2010! 

 

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We enjoyed KAMI-SHIBA that is a form of storytelling that originated from Japanese Buddhist temples during the 12th century and literally means "paper drama".

 



Our staff gave a lecture on how to behave in an IZAKAYA (Japanese-style bar).

 

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And then, we went to an IZAKAYA together!!.

 

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Pictuers of 2010.4.17 Sakura Event - 
"2010.4.17 Kamishibai&IZAKAYA at hatagayahotel": 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36733168@N04/sets/72157623885581658/ 

Tonight is THE night to hit downtown Ikebukuro:

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For everyone who is not in Japan right now, check out our live broadcast at 10:00 GMT:
 
Of course, nothing beats going there in person for all the fun and excitement. Don't miss it if you are in town!

Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro is sister cafe of Sakura Cafe Hatagaya:)

With popular bartenders and Japanese guests from "Ginza 300 bar",
our international party will be held at our open-air terrace
in Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro!
Make new friends and enjoy a range of cocktails, beers and snacks.

The first 50 people admitted will receive a ticket to participate
in a special game! Don't miss this oportunity!

-------------------------------------------------------
 Sakura International Party
 - 300BAR Party @ Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro
-------------------------------------------------------

[Date] Friday, April 23rd, 2010 / 7:00 p.m.~ 10:00 p.m.

Special Guest, "VJ KAZ"
Large outdoor rave started, playing in a number of Top Club.
Burning Man festival in the Nevada desert and DJ Adam Freeland,
Freq-nasty and played a co-star.

[Location] Sakura Cafe Ikebukuro

[Access] 5 min. walk from Ikebukuro Station

[Map] http://www.sakura-cafe.asia/ikebukuro/english/access.php

* Please wear a pink collared item on your clothes when you come to the party:)
* Please buy 2 Drink & Food tickets (315yen each) when you arrive.

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FLAVOR TEA TIME

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サクラカフェでは、明日4月17日、17時から、英語の紙芝居と居酒屋さんでのマナー教室を行います。

外国の方だけでなく、近所にお住まいやお勤めの方も、よかったら見に来て下さい♪

18時からは、外国のお客様と一緒に、実際に居酒屋さんに行ってオーダーしたり、日本食を堪能します。(こちらは参加費3000円です。)

このようなイベントを定期的に行いますので、興味のある方は、フロントにお問い合わせください♪

 KAMISHIBAI (=paper drama of Japan) ivent will held tomorrow, at Sakura Café Hatagaya.

It's free ivent for foreign guests, and other cafe guests (Japanese).

After watching it 30 min, there is a table-manner class for 30 min., to go to Japanese bar!

How to order drinks to the staff, and how to use hot towel (after you sit down, staff will give you!) and so on.

How about to join this tour!? Please ask Hotel Staff  if you are interestead in. 

(This tour charge is 3,000 yen, just only bar charge.)

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Japan Tea Party

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We got invitation from one couple who live near Hatagaya Hotel.

They have Japanese tea Party at their own place, and the hosts gave us many attractions.

First, we tried Japanese Tea with sweet.

 

 

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Second, We enjoyed Chinese Tea♪

 

 

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And we had rice ball and pickles it was very tasty!

 

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Moreover we were wearing Kimono♪ 

Only for Girls!                               DSCF7113.JPG   DSCF7094.JPG

 

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How Cute! Girls!!                        

 

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Cherry blossom season is almost done.

 When winds blows, the petals falls to the ground

 Look like snow falling from the sky.  Beautiful!

 

It was really great experience for all of our guests to experience traditional Japanese custom, even for me!

Thank you so much for your thoughtful hospitality♪

 

Preserved twelve donjons

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Japan is full of fortresses and castles.

Shoguns, daimyos and other warlords constructed so many of them to protect their lands.

Sadly, many of them were totally destructed in Edo era by Tokugawa Shogunate, in order to eliminate possible independence movements of subjugated regions.

And survived castles were lost due to indiscriminate incendiary bombing in World War II.

So now, genuine Japanese castles are very rare.

Most of castles are reconstructed replicas, so to speak.

Only 12 castles are left untouched, and they are called "Genzon 12 Tenshu", that means "Preserved 12 Donjons".

These 12 castles only are the real witnesses of Japanese Warring States period.

One of them is Himeji castle, which is UNESCO World Heritage Site, and nickbnamed as White Heron Castle with respect.

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Unfortunately, Himeji castle is now under large-scale repair work, so visitors cannot enter the main part of them. Its donjon will be coverd from June to October as belows.

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But do not be dissapointed. I can recommend you another castle.

That is Hikone castle.

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This one is also the one of "Preserved 12 Donjons" too, and designated as a Japanese National Treasure by the goverment like Himeji castle.

This castle is famous for not only its historical importance, but also its mascot character, Hikonyan.

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Hikonyan is so pretty and one of the most favorite mascot of Japanese child tourists.

Till 20th of April, Hikone castle holds "Cherry Blossoms Festival".

And till 5th of May, a market full of traditional Japanese foods is also opened in a park near the castle too.

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日本には数々の名城がありますが、その多くは復元されたものや模造なのは知っていますか?

現在まで残っている天守閣までそろった城はたったの12。それを「現存12天守」と呼びます。

なかでも有名なのはやはり、白鷺城の別名で愛される姫路城でしょう。

当ホテルにお泊りのお客様にも姫路城観光に行かれる方が多いのですが、あいにく姫路城は大補修工事に入ってしまい、しばらくは天守閣に入ることはもちろん、6月からは覆いを掛けられて見る事も難しくなるそうです。

代わりにお薦めしたいのは彦根城です。

かわいらしいマスコットキャラクター、「ひこにゃん」で一躍有名になった彦根城ですが、今は桜祭りの真っ最中。

またご城下にぎわい市なども開かれて彦根の名産品やひこにゃんグッズがいっぱいだそうです。

姫路城とは逆に補修工事が終わったばかりで白壁の眩しい彦根城。

子連れでも楽しめる史跡として今一番ホットかも?

JAPANESE TEA PARTY Of The Spring

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Thumbnail image for img-407144821-0001.jpgWe have an event infomation on Sunday, April 11th!

Why don't you experience a Tea Party and Kimono dressing for FREE? Anybody is welcome, come with your friends!

[Meeting place & Time] Sakura Hotel Hatagaya @ 12:45 p.m.

[Map] http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/hotel_location.php

My NEXT GIG IS AT BUDOKAN!!!

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Nippon_Budokan_2_Kitanomaru_Chiyoda_Tokyo.jpg

Time has come!!!  時は来た!!!

It was my dream to have a gig at Budokan! 夢に見た武道館での演奏!

Front of the 10,000 of people ! 10,000人の人々の前で!

 

What day is today!?  1st of April !!!   今日は何の日....4月1日

I've been on the Budokan stage for lots of times in my dreams!!! hahaha!!!

夢の中では何回も武道館のステージに立ったことがあるのに??(笑)

 

Next gig is on 12th June at the club this is true!次のライブは6/12ライブハウスで演りますっ!

It's gettig warmer and warmer everyday in Tokyo!!

日に日に東京も暖かくなって来ました

 

Don't you want to go to the waterfront at such time?

こんな時は水辺に行きたくなりませんか?

 

If you wont go to waterfront from SAKURA HOTEL HATAGAYA, I recommend go to Toyosu area.

もしサクラホテル幡ヶ谷からなら豊洲エリアをお勧めします 

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Toyosu has the big waterfront park and at neighborhood, there are shopping center and a movie theater .You can enjoy it with scenery all day long.

豊洲は海の見える大きな公園の近くに ショッピングセンターと映画館があり、景色と共に一日楽しめるところです

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You can see and ride the such a  futuristic ship too!!

近くにこんな近未来型の船も見れますよ!!

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You should visit Toyosu area tomorrow!!

是非豊洲へ足を運んでみてください!!

Do you like to create only-one handmade craft for yourself??

I like it!

As Hirotaka wrote the information, we held a workshop to make a Japanese Handmade craft, and watch&listen a Shamisen parformance on March 20th,2010↓

ストラップhandicraft.jpg

8 foreign guests, joined this workshop, and they become good creaters!

They can choose the design of cloth, color of sred and string, and beads for theirselves.

I assisted the guests when they get in a bind.

ブログ和ストラップ5.jpg

Shogo (rightside in this picture) translated teacher's explanation from JP into EN.

Of course, I assist the guests, too.

 

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These girls made 2 and 3 kinds! For their friends's suvenior.

Good job!

 

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After the workshop, we took a break with Japanese cake and drinks.

They ordered Café menu (including original drink of Sakura Café !)

http://www.sakura-cafe.asia/hatagaya/menu/world-tea.php

They enjoyed to create their own suvenior, and waching& hearing the Samisen parformance!

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Shamisen player played soulfully!

Please join this workshop next time! (*^_^*)

自分だけの手作りの物を作るのは好きですか?

私は好きです。

スタッフの大敬(ひろたか)さんが既にブログに書きましたが、

3月20日14時から和ストラップ作り&三味線演奏会をサクラホテル幡ヶ谷のカフェ内で行いました♪

女性の先生の指導の元、(スタッフの落合さん通訳)、お客様はまず自分で好きな布や糸、ビーズを選んで、自分用や友人用に可愛いストラップを作りました。生地を選ぶところから、ワクワクが伝わって来ました。

コツをつかんで、時間内に3つも作る、上手な方もいらっしゃいました★

ストラップ作りの後はティータイムで、和菓子とカフェのドリンクで振る舞いました。

桜餅は大好評でした。

ティータイムの後は、三味線演奏会。

外国のお客様はその独特なメロディや音に聞き入ってらっしゃいました。

今回は有名な青森のじょんがら節等5曲程演奏して頂きました。

どんなストーリーがあるの?との質問も飛び、LOVE STORYだったり、伴奏(本来唄付き)だったり、さまざまです、との答えに、スタッフも勉強になりました。

またこのような楽しいイベントを開きたいと思います♪

 

 

 

 

Hi everyone,
how are you doing?

Well, have you ever experienced "Shamisen Performance"?

"Shamisen" is a three-stringed musical instrument in Japan.
It's a kind of Japanese traditional music,
but it has been more popular with all generation recently.

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We have this performance by a Shamisen performer, Yugo Onoda,
at our hotel on March 20th (this Saturday).



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Last Friday, we visited a bar at Asakusa for his performance.
His music was great and very soulful!

--------------------------------
16:30~ Shamisen performance (30 min.) at our hotel.
Admission Free!
--------------------------------

Enjoy this performance with us. 

xxx   yoshi

HIY (Handcraft It Yourself) !

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On March 20th, We 're gonna have a Japanese Handicraft event here.

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Never handcraft anything before?  Want to make own cute Japenese souvenir?

You are most welcome! 

Handicraft proffessional will teach you how to make from start to the end.

 

I bet you will have a fun!!  

 

 

Marché

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Allo, tout le monde!!

 

Tsukiji Fish Market est l'un des fameux marchés au Japon, je crois.

Mais, il y a beaucoup de marché a Tokyo.

Par exemple, le parc Yoyogi détient le marché appelé "Tokyo Asaichi (Farmer's Market)" une fois par mois.

 

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*L'image ci-dessus est de leur site web.


Ils détient demain (21 Février).

Vous pouvez voir beaucoup de légumes frais et biologiques et des fruits.

Vous pouvez également apprécier la communication avec les agriculteurs est là.

S'ils ne peuvent comprendre ce que vous dites et si vous pouvez uderstand ce qu'ils disent.

Tout autour de la navigation pourrait être suffisant pour vous faire plaisir.

*Avant de finir cette entrée, je dois avouer que j'ai utilisé Google Translate pour écrire ces phrases.

 

Malheureusement, il semble que leur site est écrit en japonais uniquement.

http://www.earthdaymarket.com/

Countdown to New Year 2010

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We would like to thank all the guests who stayed with us in 2009 and hope you had a memorial time with your family, partner or friends during your stay.

 

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We wish you all have a happy new year 2010!!

 

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See you again next year in Tokyo! 

 

"What`s your Japan?" 

Sakura Hotel Hatagaya

On December 12th, Sakura Hotel Hatagaya will be holding its 5th guest event " Harajuku & Meiji shrine Tour.

 

This tour includes visiting the following places;

1. The famous Shinto shrine, Meiji jingu

2. Harajuku, the unique fashion capital of Japan   

3. Design Festa Gallery, the famous art gallery for young artists in Japan

 

 

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(The gate of Meiji shrine)

 

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(Japanese style wedding at Meiji shrine)

 

After walking around Harajuku area we will be having a lunch at SAKURATEI where we enjoy Japanese style pancake called OKONOMIYAKI. It is all you can eat with one free drink!!

 

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(The main street in Harajuku "Takeshita dori")

 

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(Design Fetsta Gallery)

 

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(OKNOMIYAKI)

 

If you are staying with us on that day it will be one of the best times to explore the city of Harajuku!! so let`s have fun time with us!!  

 

For more information please click on the following link;

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/specialdeals.php#events 

 

To review our previous guest event;

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/hotel_event.php

 

Have a nice day!!

 

 

 

 

 

Halloween and Rugby

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Today, October 31st is Halloween and also 'Rugby day' in Tokyo.

 

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World best 2 teams, All Blacks (New Zealand National Team) and Wallabies (Australia National Team) faced off for BLEDISLOE CUP at National Stadium.

 

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I was extremely excited by the speed, power, and skills.

My favorite player is ...

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Thousands of Aussies and kiwis came to watch the game. I felt like I was not in Japan. I love their enthusiasm.

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2016 Summer Olympics

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DSC_0756.JPGTokyo Tower had Olympics colored lighting-up to support the campaign to host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games last night. It was raining and a little bit foggy.

 

Where will the 2016 Summer Olympics be held?

 

 

Early this morning (Japan time), the result of the vote by the International Olympic Committee in Copenhagen, Denmark ...

 

Chicago (first round), Tokyo (second round) and Madrid (final round) were eliminated.

 

The 2016 Olympic Games will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

 

 

What do you think about this result?

Mikoshi ...

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Washoi Washoi Washoi........

 

On September 23rd, Mikoshi Matsuri was held at Hatagaya area.

Unfortunately, I could not join coz I worked at Ikebukuro on that day ... TEARS

 

 

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If you would like to see more photos, please go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/36733168@N04/sets/72157622448919916/

P.S. photos by Kikuchi-san (Sakura House / advertising)

YAMANOTE LINE

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Congratulations on the 100th anniversary ! It has been 100 years since Yamanote line was named on October 12th, 1909.

I bet you have used JR Yamanote line once if you have ever visited Tokyo.

Yamanote line is one of the world's crowded rail lines and it runs in the center of Tokyo as a circle in which the clockwise is known as soto-mawari (outer circle) and the counter-clockwise is called uchi-mawari (inner circle). It takes about an hour to go around the Yamanote loop line.

 

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Yamanote line has 29 Tokyo's major stations:

Tokyo-Yurakucho-Shinbashi-Hamamatsucho-Tamachi-Shinagawa-Osaki-Gotanda-Meguro-Ebisu-Shibuya-Harajuku-Yoyogi-Shinjuku-Shin-Okubo-Takadanobaba-Mejiro-Ikebukuro-Otsuka-Sugamo-Komagome-Tabata-Nishi-Nippori-Nippori-Uguisudani-Ueno-Okachimachi-Akihabara-Kanda

 

 

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COOL T-shirt !

 

Speaking of T-shirt, would you like to buy our Sakura group T-shirt?

 

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It is September 11th today.

8 years have passed since the September 11 Attacks on the United States in 2001.

I was in Toronto, Canada on that day and I saw a lot of airplanes in the sky that attempted an emergency landing to Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Fear, anger, desperation ... the emotions in the shock were beyond description.

Local Summer Festival in Hatagaya

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19th July 2009 local summer festival in hatagaya with guests and children( wearing yukata )

 

 

 

 

 

  P1010412.jpgWhen  When you have a summer what would you like to do?

Go for swimming and go for a trip ...

 

When you come to Japan in summer, please join us local summer festival.

You can see, eat and feel something new experience there.

 

 

 

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( He is joining our summer festival tour )

 

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In your country what is the typical food in summer?

 

If you ask for Japanese people,

A lot of Japanese will answer

It is watermelon!

We put some salt on it to make it sweeter.

Please try it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 ( She is join our summer festival tour )

 

 

 When we had a summer festival in hatagaya ( 19th July 2009 ),

it was very hot and temperature was over 30.

 

We need to have something cold!!

She had a cup of Japanese sorbet (green color one).

Can you guess what it tastes?

For example red is strawberry, yellow is Lemon so...

 

 

Answer is ...................................  melon

 

 

 

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( He is joining our summer festival tour )

 

What is he taking for ...?

 

 

 

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Is it he or ...?

 

He has a cucumber'pickled,we ate it but it wasn't popular to our guests.

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He has a Japanese lemonede.

 

It is very popular to drink for all generation.

When I was a child, I used to drink it a lot.(still drink it ...)

It reminds me of my childhood...i don't konw why...

 

 

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During the summer festa, we had a beautiful rainbow !

 

 

 

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After summer festa we went Japanese style pub with our guest.

 

If you are intrested in Japanese festival.

Let's bear a Mkoshi and enjoy many stands at Hatagaya local festival. 

 

http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/blog/2009/09/hatagaya-local-festival-2009.html

 

And we still have room avaialble around 23 Sep when Hatagaya local festival is held.

ATOM

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'Sora wo koete  ra ra ra hoshi no kanata  yukuzo atomu ......'

I got off at the JR Takadanobaba station and then I heard the melody of the theme song of 'Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atomu)' from the next platform.

 

IMG_0396.JPGTakadanobaba is Atom's home! In the original story of Astro Boy, Atom was born in 'Ministry of Science' at Takadanobaba on April 7, 2003 and also 'the father of manga'  Osamu Tezuka used to have the office at Takadanobaba , and then people from local shopping areas requested the melody instead of the normal departure bell and design for wall painting under the railway bridge.

 

 

 

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IMG_0538.JPGOn the night, on my way home, I happened to find fliers of ATOM exhibition at Tokyu Fudo-mae station ticket gates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The next day, I went to Yokohama to see the exhibition.

 

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'ATOM 'exhibition is being held at Broadcast Library in Yokohama Media and Communications Center, Yokohama-city from August 1 to October 4.

 

The exhibition is held to mark the 80th anniversary of the birth of Osamu Tezuka and it is also a part of the special event in the Yokohama Port Opening 150th Anniversary.

 

This exhibition features the history of Astro Boy that became first animated TV series in 1963 and also Tezuka's signed manuscripts and celluloid pictures are on display.

 

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The Hollywood's CG film 'ATOM' is scheduled for release on October 10.

To be honest, I like 'original' Japanese 'Tetsuwan Atomu' much better because it seems to me that Tetsuwan Atomu looks more winsome and innocent than 'handsome' ATOM.

 

I saw Tezuka's message and philosophy in the exhibition ... I found the issues of War and Peace and the warning bell for the science in his manga world.

ELECTION - Lower House

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When I was on my way to Yodobashi Camera at Shinjuku this morning ... 

 

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Huge crowd of spectators came into my sight. Kazuo Shii, chairman of the Japanese Communist Party, spoke for election kickoff at the west exit of the Shinjuku station quarter past 10am. Around that time, Yukio Hatoyama, the leader of the Democratic Party of Japan, was in Osaka and Taro Aso, President of the Liberal Democratic Party, was in Hachioji, Tokyo.

 

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Today, it officially announced the campaign for the 45th House of Representatives election (the Lower House election). Election day is August 30th.

 

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According to a female police officer at the gate of the National Diet Building,

the National Diet Building is in the middle of washing exterior wall.   

I hope that Japanese politics will be completely cleaned up as well.

 

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I want to say that politics is not for the politicians but for the people.

As the 16th President of the United States Abraham Lincoln said,

'Government of the people, by the people, for the people'

NAGASAKI

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The city of Nagasaki marked the 64th anniversary of its atomic bombing today.

 

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Peace Statue at Nagasaki Peace Park

 

I was born and grew up in Tokyo, but I have another home. It is Nagasaki.

I heard that my ancestors were originally fleeing Heike warriors and reached Goto Islands in Nagasaki. Soft kyo-kotoba (Kyoto dialect) and a little bit strong Nagasaki dialect are still used among the families in Nagasaki.

 

 

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Meganebashi 

 

If atomic bomb had been dropped on Nagasaki City a couple weeks earlier, my grandfather could not have survived (my grandfather just moved from the central part of Nagasaki City to the suburbs by military order) ... I would not have been here now. I am scared and also I am profoundly grateful for that I have been born into this world.

 

Nobody has the right to deprive people of their lives, dreams and happiness.

HIROSHIMA - Imagine

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The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony took place in the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima today and Hiroshima commemorated the 64th anniversary of its atomic bombing.

 

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Participants offered a one-minute silent prayer for the victims with the sound of the bell at 8:15 a.m.

 

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The Mayor of Hiroshima Tadatoshi Akiba said :

"We have the power. We have the responsibility. And we are the Obamajority. Together, we can abolish nuclear weapons. Yes, we can."

 

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Right after the Iraqi War broke out on March 20th, 2003, a major antiwar demonstration was staged in Toronto, Canada and everybody joined hands in a circle and sang 'imagine.' I remember the moment as if it were yesterday.

 

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No Hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

 

Human beings are still fighting and kill each other. When could we have John Lennon's ideal peaceful world? 

 

The city of Nagasaki will mark its anniversary of the atomic bombing on August 9th.

Fukagawa ???

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 Have you ever heard of Fukagwa?

 

 If you are interested in downtown and/or the road less traveled, I strongly recommend you to go there.

 

 They hold Fukagawa fair three times a month (1st, 15th and 28th of each month).

 

 

 On 1st June and on 28th June, we went there with our guests.

 

 On 1st June, 3 guests joined our tour.

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And, on 28th June, 13 guests joined our tour.

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 We browsed around in street stalls that come up only on fair days,

 

 

 

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 visited Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and Fukagawa Fudo Temple.

 

 

If you are a big fan of sumo, you might enjoy Tomioka Hachiman.

 

 It has

 

 handprint of sumo wrestlers (much bigger than mine),

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 stone monument all the names of Yokozuna (the title given to the strongest sumo wrestlers) on it,

 

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huge portable shrines (the below is heavier one),

 

 

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 and a shrine (of course).

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As for Fukagawa Fudo Temple,

 

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 There are a lot of statues in the temple.

 

 Unfortunately, taking photo is prohibited inside the temple, so we cannot show you how the inside of it is.

 

 It means that you need to go there if you are attracted.

 

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 The picture below is Kiyosumi Garden (the Japanese garden located near from Fukagawa).

 

 

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We haven't been there in these tours, but if you feel tired owing to much sightseeing, why don't you go there and take a rest.

 

 It is the very place to make you relax and take a nap or siesta.

 

 

↓me

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Sorry, just kidding.

 

 

more info : http://www.sakura-hotel-hatagaya.com/index.php

much more info : Asking us

RUGBY

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A great news for rugby fans!

On July 28th, it was announced that Japan will host the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

 

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The National Stadium

 

I have gone to watch rugby games since I was a small child, actually it was the first time when my father took me to the game at the National Stadium to cheer for the University where my father graduated from. Horizontal stripes with dark red and black color were vivid. Every time I see the games, I still get hot all over.

 

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Chichibunomiya Rugby Field

 

A long time ago, 'rugby fever' was amazing and it was hard to get tickets even for regular season ticket for university games and my father and I used to wait in lines in front of the ticket shops from very early in the morning.

 

Now, baseball, soccer, basketball, tennis, swimming and judo are popular sports in Japan, but on the other hand, popularity of rugby has declined ... that's ok ... we do not need non-fan spectators. When we had 'rugby boom,' a lot of couples or groups came to the rugby field as a part of fashion. The real fans are who have passion (not fashion) and love the rugby ... I have seen many many old men who watch the game alone. They are real fans.

 

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I respect 2 philosophies of rugby.

 

'ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE'

'NO SIDE'

 

When game is over, players respect each other and become friends.

Rugby is a gentleman's sport.

Waching Firefly Tour in Summer!!

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On July 11, 2009, Sakura Hotel Hatagaya did a tour to watch FIREFLY in the night.

 

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They are guests who joined our tour! (10 people joined. They are from Spain, USA, Germany, Thayland, and Sweden!)

Most of the guests haven't ever seen frying and lighting FIREFLY.

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Around 5 PM, we depertured of our hotel.

So, we could watch nice Japanese garden and livers in this area,on day-time(can watch clearly, and on night time(light up garden!).

 

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This is cascade.It's dinamic.

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This is Japanese liver (carp was swimming peacefully).

But, I heard that several countries eat them at chrismas day!

It's amazing!

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One of the guest, from Sweden, had a very good video camera, so he could take good shot of firefly.

It's too bad that our camera couldn't take a good shot of firefly in the night...

(The light is too small to take a good picture...)

If you go there, and watch them, that would be much better than pictures.

 

 

YOKOHAMA - HANABI

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Kanagawa Shinbun Fireworks Show was held in the Yokohama Minato

Mirai 21 area last night.

 

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I avoided crowded stations, such as Minatomirai LineMinatomirai Station and  JR Negishi line Sakuragicho station ...

I got off at Minatomirai Line Nihon-odori station and walked to

Osambashi Pier.

 

 

 

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A large cruise ship was 'standing' and occupied VIP seats.

 

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About 8000 fireworks were displayed in the night sky.

 

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Even after the fireworks, a lot of people stayed there ...

some are fascinated with the beautiful night view of Yokohama and

others enjoyed talking with friends.

 

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Yukata and Hanabi ... what a beautiful combination!

UCHIWA & FINLAND

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We had UCHIWA (paper fan) workshop at our café on July 25th.

 

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Miyuki and Mitsuko were instructors. GOOD JOB !

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After the workshop, they moved to Sakura Hostel Asakusa and enjoyed Sushi Party and then went to see Sumida River fireworks.

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Zoe and Viivi, from Finland, had a good time with UCHIWA workshop, SUSHI PARTY at Sakura Hostel Asakusa and Sumida River Fireworks.

I am jealous. I was too tired from working a night shift to join the events. Shame on me.

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Also, I wanted to meet 3 sisters in Yukata at Asakura ... well, I have to wait until next year.

 

Finland ...I bring up the image of 'Kamome Shokudo' (The movie is set in Helsinki, Finland and I like the atmosphere in the film) and Kimi Raikkonen (my favorite Finnish Formula One race car driver and he was the 2007 Formula One World Drivers' Champion)

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At Fuji Speedway, Shizuoka on October 12th, 2008.

A girl was enthusiastically cheering for Kimi.

 

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I did not know at that moment that this race would be the last race for Formula One at Fuji Speedway.

Across The Universe

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To be honest, I was not interested in solar eclipse and I could not understand why people got crazy about it because it seemed to me that it did not mean much to our life and the event was made for romantics.

However, since I learn how a solar eclipse occurs, I appreciate the greatness of the universe and science. SUN is 400 times bigger than MOON, but the sun is totally obscured by the moon and complete darkness appears in the total solar eclipse that is unbelievable mysterious natural phenomenon.

 

 

 

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The solar eclipse was visible from India, Nepal, China and Japan, and islands in the southwestern Pacific yesterday. Total solar eclipse was seen for the first time in 46 years in Japan.

 

Unfortunately, Tokyo was covered with clouds yesterday.

 

 

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Tokyo Tower - gloomy day

 

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People looked up at overcast sky at Shiba Park in Minato-ku, Tokyo

 

 

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The sun was obscured by clouds, but I was able to see partial

solar eclipse slightly for a second.

 

The next total solar eclipse will be observed in Japan 26 years from now.

 

 

We have mysterious worlds across the universe that are beyond our imagination.

Our curiosity is endless and it is not too much to say that we are all romantics at heart.

 

Speaking of 'across the universe,' I like The Beatles's song 'Across the Universe' and also the movie 'Across The Universe' is one of my favorite movies.

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SUMMER FESTIVAL

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The Japan Meteorological Agency announced the end of the rainy season in Kanto region yesterday.

No more rain! I saw a lot of women put up their umbrella for the protection against the sun rather than from the rain in the street

 

It is time to come to Japan. We will have 'HANABI' fireworks displays almost every weekend, from July to August, and also there are many local summer festivals called 'MATSURI' and outdoor rock festivals, such as FUJI ROCK, SOMMER SONIC and more...

 

 

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Sumida River Fireworks Festival, July 25, 2009

Sakura Hostel Asakusa will have a party.

 

http://sumidagawa-hanabi.com/

 

 

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 Our local shopping area 'Nishihara Shotengai' will have summer community festival on July 19.

 

 

 

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I went to SOMMER SONIC last year. COLDPLAY was awesome and Allicia Keys was beautiful and sexy. http://www.summersonic.com/

 

 

 

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My favorite 'ap bank fes' will be held on July 18, 19 and 20 at Tsumagoi, Shizuoka.

Kazutoshi Sakurai (Mr. Children) that I respect is one of the founders of the fes and the fes brings up environmental issues. http://www.apbank-ecoreso.jp

 

 

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We will have a workshop of UCHIWA , paper fan, on July 25. Come & join us!

 

 

Don't miss them!

 

ELECTION - Tokyo

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Yesterday was the election day of Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election.

The election for the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly is said to be a prelude to the election for Japan's House of Representatives.

 

 

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Tokyo Metropolitan City Hall

 

If we want to make things better, we have to take action.

One of the actions we could take is vote in elections.

 

 

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Undecided voters look at a billboard displaying posters of candidates

 

 

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Voting station, elementary school gymnastic hall

 

 

We have to open our eyes and see what's going on in front of us.

Ignorance is a dangerous thing.

TANABATA STAR FESTIVAL

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July 7th is the day of Star Festival called Tanabata in Japan.

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Rinshinomori Park - I often take an hour-long walk there

 

The Star Festival is considered to be a mixture of Chinese tradition and indigenous religion of Japan. Actually, it was introduced into Japan in the 8th century and became popular during the Edo Period.

 

In the story, a couple, Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair), can only meet across the Milky Way once a year on the night of July 7th.

 

 

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Osaki Station

 

On the day of Tanabata, people write their wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. When I was a child, I always wished I could become a professional baseball player.

 

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Osaki Station

 

Women wear a Yukata, Japanese summer kimono at Tanabata.

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Beautiful Hatagaya ladies

 

PHOTO

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World Press Photo 2009 is taking place at Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography at Yebisu Garden Place, Tokyo from June 13th to August 9th.

5,508 photographers from 124 countries sent their works and about 200 works

were chosen.

 

 

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I majored in photojournalism at University in Minnesota.

Robert Capa was one of the photographers who inspired me and made me get into photojournalism.

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His famous photo of The Normandy Landings is on the outside wall of the museum.  

I stood frozen in front of the huge 'wall painting.' It reminded me of the movie 'Saving Private Ryan'IMG_8789.JPG

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Also, Robert Doisneau`s 'Kiss by the Hotel de Ville' is on the wall. I bet you have seen this romantic photo once. However, the action was not spontaneous, but the pose was staged. I did not want to know the fact ... Anyway, I still like the photo.

 

Photo is powerful and profound because it captures the moment and reveal the truth.

 

It seems to me that black-and-white photo is more meaningful than color-photo. Color shows reality too much. On the other hand, black-and-white gives us a chance to imagine behind the photo.

 

 

By the way, today is America's Independence Day. It reminds me of that I used to drive '85 Chevy Camaro to Lake Superior from Minneapolis to see fireworks on the Fourth of July. GOOD OLD DAYS!

 

Hatagaya Mikoshi Festival

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This is Hatagaya Mikoshi Festival at September, 2008.

 

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At this traditional Japanese festival, people hold a Mikoshi (a portable shrine) with many people.

 

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We,Sakura Hotel Hatagaya's staff and our guests joined in this festival.

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During walking around the street, we could have some drinks, and foods.

 

This time, we had sushi(delicious!), beers, miso soup with pork and vegetables, snacks, Oden (Japanese Pot-au-feu) and soft drinks when we have a break.

 

We will join this festival in this September.

 

If you'll stay our hotel, enjoy this festival with us!!

Design Festa in 2008.

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These pictures are taken at Design Festa (at Tokyo Big Sight)on 16th November, 2008.

This is the biggest art event in Tokyo, and many amateur artists and creaters displayed sold and performance including dancing. That made the people there excited.

This picture is postcards I bought. How cute these kits are!

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Light Down?

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 It's hard to find the darkness in Tokyo even in the night.

 

 I'm not kidding.

 

 Once you come to Japan and hang around, you can find that I am an honest.

 

 However, 21st June (the summer solstice), lights are switched off and people light candles instead at some famous place including Tokyo Tower.

 

 Unfortunately, I need to stay at our hotel for work till 10 PM (after such events are done)... I wish I could watch the darkness in the center of Tokyo...

 

 Then, should I make up my mind to do almost same thing at my home?

 

If you're interested in this event, I recommend you to check the website below.

 

http://www.candle-night.org/english/