Asakusa Diary - The Staff Blog

We had farewell party for Ryoko last night.
She worked in Sakura hostel for a half year, and took charge of our staff blog.
I think you enjoyed her blog a lot.
Now, she decided to start her new life in the U.S.
She will work in Disney Land in Florida for a year!!
We believe she do a good job over there as well as in Sakura hostel.

Here are some photos we took last night.

with her best friend Enocchi

Sakura Girls!!

We gave her message card.
Was she so happy that she couldn't help crying!?

We will miss you, Ryoko!!
Come to see us when you come back to Japan!!

Today is my last day working here.
Time flies so fast these past 6 months.
I really liked the international atmosphere here.

I'm glad to work with awesome Sakura staffs.
Everyone has interesting characteristics;
Tsuyoshi=Looks scary, but warm hearted

Naoto=Not only just a crazy fighter, but a laid back & generous guy
Tomoe=Shy and indoor image at first, but friendly, active, and surprisingly beer lover

Ebi=Sensitive guy in contrast to his wild appearance

Jack=Supportive and gentle, but keeping a gang sta mind in secret

Johrel=Fashionable and peaceful, but scared at a cockroach

Enoki=Serious and organized, at the same time, funny and hilarious

Instead of me writing this blog, new staffs, Agu and Aki will take care of it.
They'll give you lots of info about Japan from their different perspective.

I'm going to the States for a year to work as a cultural representative.
Working here at Sakura gave me good opportunity to share my own culture
and customs with guests from all over the world.

This place is the second home for guests, but for me at the same time.

I'll definitely stop by sometimes to say hello.

See you then!! Muah!!

The term ''Gokon'' comes from ''Konpa'' in Japanese.
The word ''Konpa'' comes from the English word, companion.

As a rule of gokon, the number of men & women in each group is required to be the same,
thus ensuring the formation of couples.

Their aim is finding a new friend or a new partner.
Some people just enjoy to have drinks with opposite sex, while others to look for a life partner.

Women tend to prefer when the attendees are doctors, lawyers, and young company presidents etc.
In contrast, men tend to prefer when women attendees are exceptionally good looking.

Once a toast has been made, everyone gives a brief self-introduction.
Then they start talking about their job, hobbies, and so on.

If they find someone interested, they exchange their cell number or e-mail address at the end.
Some of them get together again, meet up in private, or never seen each other.

The secret to the popularity of gokon lies in the fact that it differs from an omiai,
a view to marriage, in being informal and that one can expect a little adventure.

To attract boys, Western girls pretend as sexy ladies, while Japanese women pretend as cute girls.
The ideal figure to Western girls is like Barbie dolls. Japanese girls tend to play dumb.
These falsely cute types are called ''burikko,'' pretenders, or attention seeker types.
They pretend to be pretty and cute in order to seek attention from others.

Those burikko girls talk slowly in a high-pitch voice or an anime voice.

Burikko is probably the type that tries to create a "kawaii" image.
They are often disliked by fellow women.

Burikko pose

Maid cafe girl does the same pose.

@ home cafe is the most famous maid cafe in Akihabara.
It's just 2 stations from here.
Let's experience Japanese Burikko culture!

Hangover... feel awful...

When you drink too much the night before, you regret it the next morning.
Well, that hangover you have may be temporary, but there are a couple things
you can do to make it even shorter.

Drink Water, Dakara (sports drink), CC Lemon

Green Tea

Clear Soup

Coffee (put milk is better)

Shijimi clam miso soup

Press Tsubo (pressure point)

Umeboshi (Plum)

Namatamago (Raw Egg)

Kaki　（persimmon)

Hoshigaki (dried persimmon)

Now you are ready to go out tonite too :p

This morning, our guest asked me why are you wearing a face mask?
Because I got a cold and cough a lot, I just don’t want to spread of germs.

But you might think that you can simply cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
However, Japanese don’t feel the same way.
We have a tendency to take care of the group rather than the individual. We concern for the health
and safety of our co-workers and family than physical appearance.

Japanese People wear a mask for various reasons;
for example, to stop spread of disease, or to avoid to get sick.
Also to protect from pollen during allergy season.

There are many types of face masks.

When you come here, why don't you try them?

"Himonoya" is such a nice Izakaya restaurant.
It's just 8 mins walk from the hostel.
It delivers a nice interior design, together with all the classics of Japanese izakaya food,
like yakitori, grilled fish, salads, etc., and a wide variety of drinks.

We played interesting masks that were hanged on the wall.
I can't tell the difference between Enoki and this funny mask.

Tomoe and Johrel

Haha, Ben chan. You look like Namahage.

Namahage= A person dressed as scary looking demon, and scare young children
in the houses to encourage them to obey their parents and to behave.

Hit the Taiko (Japanese drum) to call the servers

Naoto loves to go there during lunch time.
Lunch menu is just 580~680yen includes main dish, miso soup, Rice and natto (sticky beans).
You can get rice and natto as much you can.
Naoto always has at least 2 rice bowls and 2 natto packs.
That's why he gains 2kg recently. lol

Their size of beer mug is quite amazing!! That's HUGE!!

Even though you are good at chugging a beer like this guy, you would have hard time.

Himonoya is our paradise!!!

Say Cheese!

Smile!

1, 2, 3...Cheese!

はい、チーズ！

Kimchiiii!!

When Japanese people are taken a picture, they make the ''V sign'' or ''Peace sign.''

How does this custom come from?
Although it's not known when the V sign first came into use, it's said that Prime Minister
Winston Churchill of England made a pose of ''V sign'' during World War II to show his intention
of winning the war against Germany.

During the Vietnam war, anti-war protests used the sign to show ''peace'' which caught on in Japan.

The other story is that about 30 years ago, the popular Japanese star Jun Inoue appeared on
a Konica photo camera commercial and make his own style peace sign.
It became famous instantly in Japan.

The Peace sign spreads throughout the country!!!

Be Japanese, make the V sign!!!!!!!

Japanese sushi are not only the oval shaped sushi, nigiri-zushi (hand pressed sushi).
Sushi rolls (maki-zushi) are also very popular.
Arai-san (Our ex-cleaning staff) taught how to make Maki-zushi.

Sushi rice and various ingredients are rolled in nori (dried seaweed).


Rolling sushi is the hardest point.

Everyone had struggling moment...

Do they look gorgeous? They are good finger food.
If you are invited to a potluck party, sushi rolls might be good choices.

Next, we went to watch Sumida river fireworks which is one of the major fireworks displays of Tokyo.
Thank you for all of you joining the tour!

Wearing Yukata makes you prettier.

We took nice place because of Naoto.
He was waiting for taking a place about 7 hours!

Fireworks seen from the spaces between tall buildings are really quite breathtaking!!!

We are ready for tonight's Rakugo show.
Rakugo is a Japanese traditional verbal comedy show.

Carrying the Tatami mattress.

Setting up the stage

The stage is completed!

Next, set up the microphone,

Pretending as we are rock star!

Now, everything is completed!
We are so ready for the show!!

Hoppy, it's a beer taste like non alcoholic beverage.

What is good about drinking hoppy rather than beer?

It's low carbohydrate, low calorie (10 calorie for 100 ml), and zero purine bodies, and cheap!!

The most popular way to drink Hoppy is mixing with cold Shochu(Japanese Vodka)
in a proportion of five to one in a chilled glass.

It also can be mixed with Gin, Vodka, plum wine etc.
Make your own drink with Hoppy!

There is Hoppy street in Asakusa. It's just 3 mins walk from our hostel. You don't have to
worry about the last train.

Another good place to try Hoppy is ''Omoide Yokocho'' translates as ''Memory Alley''
in west side of Shinjuku.

It’s a district in Japan that is full of tiny bars that have managed to retain an old-world atmosphere.

There is also an old-fashioned district named ''Harmonica Yokocho'' in Kichijoji.

Enjoy drinking Hoppy in Japanese old-fashion atmosphere!

Have a nice hoppy day!!

Mitama Matsuri is a ritual for dead solders who dedicated their lives for their country.
Mitama means departed soul in English.

Currently, more than 2,466,000 divinities are enshrined in Yasukuni Shrine.
Both sides of lanterns represent souls of solders who made ultimate sacrifice
for their nation such as the Boshin War, the Seinan War, the Sino-Japanese and Russo-Japanese wars,
World War I, the Manchurian Incident, the China Incident and World War II.
The name "Yasukuni," represents wishes for preserving peace of the nation given by the Emperor Meiji.

Chrysanthemum is the symbol of the emperor.
Yasukuni Shrine has deep relationship with the Japanese imperial family.

How to pray in shrine?
1. Bow twice
2. Crap your hand twice
3. Make a wish
4. Bow once

More beautiful lanterns are inside of the main shrine.

Be careful, the gate to the main shrine closes at 10 pm.

Variety of Matsuri booth

People were making a long line especially at this booth. It's near the entrance.

They sell Ramen Burger.

The burger features Ramen noodles instead of buns.
Actually, It was crispy and tastes good.

But the best part is....

Drinking cold draft beer!!!

Outside Drinking is legal in Japan.
This is the best Japanese law !!

It's non stop.

It will start from 6 pm till 10 pm.
Just 5 mins walk from Kudanshita Station.
Today is the last day!
Get your ass people!

Japanese traditionally clean the wax from the insides of their ears with a small bamboo hook
or scoop, called a "mimikaki."

Japanese Bamboo Ear Pick
This is the most major Mimikaki.
Scoop your ear wax on the left side, and finish up the feather.

Stainless Ear Pick

Brush type Mimikaki

If you feel uncomfortable using Mimikaki, you can start with this brush Mimikaki.
You don't need to worry about poking your eardrum.

Also there are variety of Q-tips called ''Menbo'' in Japanese.

Sticky Menbo

Black Menbo

You can see your ear wax clearly. Japanese like this black colored Menbo especially.

More interesting stuff, Lighted Ear Pick

This type of menbo is used for a special occasion like this,

Japanese men love to have their girlfriends or wives clean their ears.
This light up Menbo is useful for cleaners.

Westerers don't get used to have clean their ears. It's more Asian culture thing.
Japanese especially have a special emotional state, ''Amae.''
Amae refers to a desire to receive love, tolerance, permissiveness and generosity from others.
Amae cannot be translated into English dictionary.
This Amae emotional state probably comes from the parent-child relationship.
Such dependent feelings are often carried into adult relationships, including husband and wife,
teacher and student and even boss and subordinate.

Do you wanna experience Japanese Amae Culture?
This is the best place to go.
Yamamoto Mimikakiten

Lie on a maid's lap and get your ears cleaned.
This locates at Akihabara, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and more!

Watch this funny Japanese show
How Foreigners react when they have clean their ear first time.

Don't be afraid, when you get used to it, feels like......in heaven.

Do you know there is a famous pudding shop in Asakusa which appeared in guidebooks, magazines and TV show many times.

"Asakusa Silk Pudding (浅草シルクプリン)" is just so yummy!
They have 9 flavors of pudding such as milk, black sesame, caramel, green tea, strawberry, coffee, cheese, chocolate and royal milk tea. What a tempting selection!

They stick to a material and the recipe, and the pudding is as smooth as silk, true to its name.

Why not try them!?

...　（￣▽￣）

Here it is!!

I had green tea flavor. If you're interested in Japan, you must know how Japanese people love Maccha, and this is the one you should try!

Jack liked his black sesame pudding very much. The sweet sauce at the bottom is the most delicious part!

The one Ryoko chose is "Premium Milk Pudding" which has the most rich taste and the most expensive one! (500 yen) Yeah, it was actually really good!

Oh boss, don't get me wrong! We are not goofing off at work. We had to eat them to recommend our guests this lovely Asakusa sweets =P

Any difference?

Before

After

Which one is cuter?

Female Ninja ''Ku-no-ichi'' is trying to use her sword.

OMG!

Run away, Tsuyoshi!

By the way, there is a strong relationship of the word kunoichi and Kanji character of female （女）.

When the kanji ''女'' breaks apart, it becomes as く　ノ　一.

The ''く'' (pronounce ''ku'') is written in hirigana, ''ノ'' (pronounce ''no'') in katakana and ''一''

(pronounce ''ichi'') in kanji - add the three together becomes the Japanese word (in kanji) for woman!

く　ノ　一
↓
女

Oh, no. It's too late.

Philipp from Germany is traveling all of the world by bicycle.
He started from Germany→Italy→Turkey→ Georgia → Azerbaijan →(took a boat)→
Turkmenistan → Uzbekistan→ Kyrgyzstan → China → Pakistan → India → Nepal →
(flew over) → Singapore → Malaysia → Thailand → Honk Kong → Shanghai → (took a ferry) →
Osaka → Tokyo

His next destination is USA, going to San Fransisco first, then New York will be his final destination!
If he finds good work in NY, he'll stay there for a while. If not, going back home.

Good luck, man!

Last night, he was wearing such a fun T-shirt.

The TOP Detergent T-shirt! Lovely!

Bamboo tree is arrived here!

Tanzaku paper is ready, too.

All you need to do is just write down your wish on Tanzaku paper & hang it on bamboo branch.

Your wish will come true on July 7, Tanabata (Star festival)

By the way, why we celebrate Tanabata?
Let me tell you about Tanabata legend.
Tanabata legend is a two-star story of lovers in the vast galaxy.

Once upon a time, there is a weaving princess (Vega, Japanese name as Orihime)
who weaves all day long.
Her father, the emperor of the galaxy is worried about Orihime’s crazy working.
Then the emperor set up to meet a handsome cowherd (Altair, Japanese name as Hikoboshi)
who lives in the other side of the galaxy. Orihime falls deeply in love with Hikoboshi,
and they get married instantly.
After their marriage, they are so into each other. Orihime neglects her weaving even.
When the emperor sees Orihime’s laziness, he is so upset, then
he gets the couple separated far across the Milky Way.

Since Orihime is separated to Hikoboshi, she cries and cries all day long.
(That brings rainy season!!)
The emperor cannot stand to see his daughter’s crying face,
so that he has permitted the couple to meet at the Milky Way once a year on July 7th,
when two stars, Vega and Altair shine more brightly than any other stars.

To celebrate their meeting, we have Tanabata festivals annually.

The most famous Tanabata festival in Kanto area is held in Shonan Hiratsuka.

At the Tanabata festival in Shonan Hiratsuka, beautiful bamboo decorations are made
throughout the town.

At noon, a parade and a dance attraction are going through at the main street.
Also, at night, the bamboo decorations are lightened up beautifully.
That makes the Tanabata festival more luxurious.

Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Matsuri
Tomorrow (July 4th) is the last day!!
10am-9pm
2mins from JR Hiratsuka Station (From Asakusa, 1 hour 30 mins)

Feel the romantic festival!!!

The most well known Japanese guy in the states, Rome Kanda.

He was born in Osaka, northern side in Japan. He spent his early career as an actor.
He decided to move to the USA in 1999, and to be an actor and a comedian.
Americans love his joke. Now he performs at a comedy club in Hollywood.
Also he appeared on the movie titled ''The Informant!'' a supportive role,
and on a commercial for the New York Mets as a sushi chef.

Moreover, he teaches variety of Japanese traditional performing arts and martial arts with samurai sword.

Kanda is most known for his hosting role on I Survived a Japanese Game Show

with his unique gesture, ''Majide.'' Majide means ''Really?'' or ''Are you serious?'' in English.

Let's watch his interview.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ym303x7BILA&feature=fvw

TOTORO is a world famous Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki's movie character.

Totoro is a tree guardian who lives in the forest behind the girls' house.
The original movie named ''Tonari no Totoro'' was released in 1988.

The english version movie ''My neighbor Totoro'' was released in the US in 1993.
And this year, Totoro finally came on Hollywood!

Do you know the movie?
Everyone must know.
That is.....
Toy Story!!!!

Totoro makes an appearance in Toy Story 3!!!

Can you see it?

Here on the left corner, there is a Totoro toy!!

Toy Story 3 will be in theater in July 10.

Can't wait to see Totoro till then?
Go to Ghibli museum.

Totoro is waiting for you at Ghibli museum.

Ghibli Museum
10am-6pm
Closed every Tuesday
15 mins walk from Mitaka Station (Approximately 1 hour from our hostel)
Advance purchase of a reserved ticket is needed.
Ghibli Museum Website

The hottest Asian election!
Who do you think is the best looking guy???

Entry No.1

No.2

No.3

No.4

No.5

No.6 (on your right)

No.7 (on your left)

Let's Vote!!

Have you ever tried Pururun Jelly?

Pururun means like ''jiggly'' in English.

How to make jiggly jelly?
Just Shake it hard!

Shake it! Sha-shake it!

Pururun jelly is ready to drink.

It is available at our vending machine.

It's a limited drink!
Come and try!

p.s. Don't shake it too much. It turns out just a normal OJ.

Jack was used to be a gang sta.

He acted the fool in his school year...
You want a piece of me, huh? Bring it on!

But he started a new life when he got a daughter in 2008.

And just yesterday, he got a 2nd baby!!!

He supported his wife the entire time until the baby came out.
What a nice husband!
The best smile with his sweet son.

The gangster was reborn as a good father.

Omedetou! Jack!

My recomendation during the rainy season is Echika!!

Echika's name comes from ''Ekichika'' (station underground).
It is built by Tokyo Metro.

It has everything, such as fashion, cosmetics, food court, bars, quick hair cut, and relaxation.

You don't need to get out to the ground anymore.

My most recommended shop in Echika is...

this pafet shop named ''Mametorou.'' It is in Echika Ikebukuro

Another Echika locate at Omotesando & Ueno.

When you feel down in this rain, just take a subway and enjoy the undergraund shopping!!!

The Japanese anthem, 君が代 (Kimi ga yo) has the oldest (9th century) lyrics,
It was written to praise the Emperor system of Japan.
And also it is the one of the world's shortest national anthems.

The lyrics of Kimi ga yo:

Kimi ga yo wa / Chiyo ni yachiyo ni / Sazare ishi no /
Iwao to nari te / Koke no musu made.

English translation:

May the reign of the Emperor/ continue for a thousand, eight thousand generations
and for the eternity / that it takes for small pebbles /to grow into a great rock
/and become covered with moss.

Let's listen with melody.
http://www.lyrics5.com/videos.html?vid=-L4C4b0RitY

By the way, do you know the world's oldest national anthem
though the words of the Japanese national anthem (not the music)
date back to the 9 th century?

The answer is...

Holland!
Their national anthem music was made in 1572.
The melody of Japanese anthem was added in the late 19th century.
Holland's national anthem, ''Het Wilhelmus'''s Wilhelmus is Germany actually.
Does anyone know why Germany is appeared on the Holland's national anthem???

So tomorrow, you should focus on listening both Japan & Holland's national anthem.

Even though Holland has the oldest national anthem music,
we have 2 world's record (oldest & shortest lyrics).
That means, we already beat you up! lol

Well, our hope is that we can get a draw.

Go go Japan!!

Have you experienced to get on jam-packed train?
Jam-packed train can be described as percentage.
100% You can have a seat, hang on a strap, or grab on to a handhold.
150% You can still read newspaper or books.
200% People are very close to each other for a long time. Awkward. Pervert cases happen sometimes. Men should be careful about their hands. You had better avoid standing behind women not to be misunderstood.
250% Feel extremely tight. If you are short women like me, you can barely breathe even your bodies are likely to rise with surrounded by taller people. Even if you are tall enough, looking at each other very closely for minutes is embarrassing.

If you would like to experience the most terrible one, I would say you should get on the JR Keihin Tohoku line from Ueno station to Okachimachi station around 8 am. You can experience 225% of crowdness. Why don’t you get on the train to explore the suffer from a crowd of humans?

Are you interested in German beer festival?
Tokyo beer paradise 2010 is for 200th anniversary of Munich’s famous beer festival.
They offer many hard to find beer brands and tasty German treats.
This festival is perfect for a laid back summer day.

Check out their menu!

TOKYO BEER PARADISE 2010
Place: Roppongi Hills
Opens until next Sunday, June 20.
Open hours: 11:30am-9pm (last order 8:30pm)
Admission fee: 200yen
*Do you wanna get a free admission?
You should follow ''beerpara2010'' on Twitter.
When you send a direct mail to them about the date you will plan to go,
they will send you a free admission!
When you arrive, you just need to show the screen of their reply mail .

More info
http://www.beerpara.jp/english.html

Enjoy a tasty German beer!!!

Last night in Shibuya went crazy.
You know why?
Japan defeated Cameroon 1-0!!

Supporters got carried away by Japan's victory.
They were singing, dancing, and shouting each other.
It reminds me back in 2002.
I was at Shinjuku watching the game of Japan VS Russia.
After we grab the victory, I did high fives every time I passed the people.
Some people were tossed into the air while others were hugging each other.
It was ridicules thing happening here.
Because Japanese usually don't get along with strangers.
But only the World Cup season, we think we are all friends.
This game unifies all Japanese. That's why I love the world cup.

The next game will be on 19th.
Japan VS Holland
Starting at 8:30 PM

Whatever the result will be, I really feel honored to our hero, Samurai Blue.

As you know, today is

VS

We are wearing Samurai Blue uniform to be ready!

In 2002 FIFA World cup when Japan beat up Russia, Japanese supporters
became crazy at the center of Shibuya's big crossroads.

Do you think Japanese is shy and don't express their emotions?
Well, sometimes we lose control...lol
Check this out.
Your image of quiet Japanese will be break for sure I guess.

If Japan has victory for tonite's game, those supporters might get nuts.
Go to Shibuya and see what's gonna happen.

Oh, watch the police men by the way:p

GO JAPAN!!!

FIFA world cup is finally started.

Japan will be against Cameroon, Netherlands, and Holland.
Japan VS Cameroon match will start tonight at 11pm!

Do you want to know more about Japan national team?
You should take a trip to the Samurai Blue Park at the Olympic plaza next to Yoyogi park.
That park offers a variety of events and a fan shop selling exclusive Samurai Blue fan items.

The Museum Zone displays exhibitions on the history of the Samurai Blue team and the domestic league.

There is also a giant Ryoma Sakamoto statue wearing the Samurai Blue kimono kit.
This place is worth a photo!

Whatever the result is in South Africa, if you are looking for fellow Samurai Blue fans,
then this is the place to go!

Entrance: Free
Open: Now as long as Samurai Blue plays in South Africa
Wkdays: 5pm-9pm Wkends: 12pm-9pm

Let’s talk about Japanese beer today.
Japan has 3 types of beer, Beer, Happoshu (less malt beer), and Daisan no beer (a third generation beer).

Beer

Happoshu

Daisan no beer

Japanese beer consists of alcohol tax.
Alcohol tax for beer in Japan is based on the percentage of malt used,
not the percentage of alcohol.
That’s why Japanese beer company made a less malt beer, that’s call ''Happoshu.''

But, since Japanese government has charged more alcohol tax for Happoushu,
the new comer beer, called ‘’Dai san no beer’’ (the third generation beer) has been made.

This beer contains least alcohol tax. Actually, this beer is a new kind of alcoholic beverage,
because it isn’t actual beer. It is brewed from ingredients other than malt, such as
peas, rice, potato, corn, soybeans, and so on.

Since its release, the third generation beer has been popular among beer lovers.

Our beer lover guests seem to love this beer.
Our vending machine sells alcohol beverage cheaper than stores.
Let's enjoy the same taste of beer but at a cheaper price!!!

This?

this guy?

that?

this cutie?

Or this dude?

Enrique is a model who is popular in Toronto, Canada. He is a H&M retailer as well.
Since he works in the fashion industry, he always wears cool clothes.
One day he was looking for a male's school uniform called, ''Gakuran.''
He came over to ask ''Where can I find a school uniform?''
I recommended this cosplay shop in Akihabara, but he wants to get a real school uniform.
I had hard time finding it, but Doctor Know-all, Tsuyoshi knows the place to sell a school uniform.
It sells near from our hostel actually.

Make a nice pose ^^

The term ''Gakuran'' is a combination of gaku (学) means "study" or "student",
and ran (らん or 蘭) means Holland or the West in general.
Therefore, gakuran translates as "Western student (uniform)".

I'm so happy taking a picture with such a nice model :D

大黒屋(Daikokuya)

They have the best Tendon (Tempura with rice bowl)

This Tendon looks darker than a normal one, but the taste is actually not salty at all.
The price for one Tendon is 1500 yen, but it is worth to pay!
You should try Tokyo's Best Tendon!!!

Naoto ordered a Crocs patterned on Brazil soccer team color, and it's arrived!
http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/blog/2010/05/crocs_crocband_nationshoes_support_2010_world_cup_teams.html

I wanna get it so bad. It is the coolest Crocks I've ever seen.

And it suits for Brazil soccer uniform!

Tsuyoshi got national uniforms, and all staff wear them for FIFA world cup next week!!!

England!

Argentina!

Brazil!

Cameroon!

Portugal !

Spain!

Germany!

France!

We are waiting for your arrival with passionate heart.

i PAD!!!!!!!!!!

Johrel was waiting for a long time and he finally got it the day
when the i pad was just released in Japan.
He made a reservation thru the Mac website, so that he didn't have to
make a loooooong line to get them.

There is a Mac shop locates in Akihabara.
Its just 2 station from Asakusa.
Why don't you get the hottest item to fulfill your ordinary life?

Last night, we had a futsal.
People from Sakura Hotel, Hostel, and Sakura House got together and play.

Group Picture~

Tsuyoshi, Naoto, Johrel, and Kevin teamed up.

Cheers with beer

Run, Johrel, Run!

Johrel is stretching and getting ready for the next half match.

The game ended in a 3-3 tie.
Good job guys!

By the way, Naoto hasn't had sore muscles by yesterday's futsal so far.
If he gets sore tomorrow, that means he's turning to Oyaji (old men) lol.

Why don't you try betting on a horse race?

Today, the biggest horse racing, Tokyo Derby was held in Tokyo.
The Tokyo Derby is the biggest Japanese thoroughbred horse race.
There is a big building, called WINS where you can buy a trifecta.

It's just one minute walk from our hostel.

Weekends are usually crawded like this

Tsuyoshi and Jumbo Shrimp got a trifecta.

There were 12 races, and each race took just 3 mins.
Intense moment...

Oh nooooooo

When you lost the game, just rip off the trifecta. That makes you feel little bit better. lol

Once you start watching a horse race, you will be hooked on.
Tsuyoshi and Shrimp def will try another round to revenge!

The International Match "Japan vs England" is coming next Sunday, May 30.
We will broadcast the game live on our hostel's television.

Kick off 9:30 pm

Ready to fight!!

May sickness happens after you've accomplished a major goal,
such as a school entrance, or if you've just gotten a new job.
It also happens when the relationship that started in spring time doesn't work out.
Or when you feel disconnect between ideal and reality.

The symptoms include lethargy, apathy, and even a mind depression.

Sakura Hostel got 2 infected patients.

While Tomoe and Ebichan is working hard core...

These sickies are playing games.

Tsuyoshi: I feel lethargic...

Naoto: I don't feel like doing anything~.

They are infected with the May sickness even though they are not a freshman anymore.
Work hard, men.

The answer of the question is...

Inside of this box

Did you get it?

I give you the last chance.
Take your time to find it.

The answer is...

3

2

1

Tada~~~
The secret is hidden these area.

キ Ki リ Ri ン N

Japan Samurai Blue will play against S. Korea on the 24th
at the Kirin Challenge Cup in Saitama Stadium.

Kick off: 7:20pm on May 24 (Mon)

Come here and watch the hot game together with Kirin beer!
By the way, do you know there is a secret logo on this Kirin figure?

Can you see it?

The answer is coming up next blog.

Soccer season is coming soon.
Our staff is excited about it.

Naoto just ordered a Crocs patterned on Brazil soccer team color.
Crocs released 11 new styles of national soccer teams
for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa next month.

Let's wear them and watch FIFA world cup games together!

We have a FIFA World Cup 2010 special plan only from May 21st to July 11st, too!

This weekend has many festivals in Tokyo.

No.1 Sanja Matsuri

Portable shrines will be carried around Asakusa area.
May 15&16
Place: Around Senso-ji temple
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/history/traditionalevents/a26_fes_sanja.html

No.2 Design Festa
May 15&16
Place: Tokyo Big Sight
Time: 11am-7pm
http://www.designfesta.com/index_en.html

No.3 Thai Festival 2010
May 15&16
Place: Yoyogi Park
Time: 10am-8pm
http://www.thaifestival.net/about/index.html

The weather will be parfectly sunny during this weekend.
Let's go outside and be active!!

One morning, we got a strange parcel wrapped around black plastics.
I was wondering what if ｔhe bomb is rigged inside the box...

Surprisingly, the beautiful fancy box was shining in the parcel.
There were 3 different kind of confectioneries, chocolates, candies, and jellies.

It was from a nice French dude, Julian!
Everyone looks gorgeous!

merci beaucoup

Asakusa is ready for Sanja Matsuri!
Everywhere in Asakusa has decorated a special lantern (called Chochin in Japanese) of Sanja Matsuri,
like the arcade near from our hostel.

Both side of the arcade has so many lanterns.

Let's put the ちょうちん(Chouchin) in front of our hostel, too!
Nice pose, Tsuyoshi lol

Ta-da???

Asia's biggest art event ''Design Festa'' is coming on May 15 & 16!
http://www.designfesta.com/index_en.html
This is an amazing event. You can see so many art works, dance, films, and live painting.
Also here will be 15 different international food stalls from around the world.
Moreover, you can buy artists' original hand-made unique crafts.

Are you getting interested?
If you stay at our hostel, we give you a free admission ticket!
The admission fee costs 800 yen in advance, and 1000 yen at the door.

This is the event that you MUST go!!

Dive into artistic chaos!!!

The 'Sanja Matsuri,' the one of the biggest festivals of mikoshi (portable shrines)
is coming up next weekend (May 14-16) at Asakusa!

On the festival, people wear a Japanese traditional clothes, ''Happi.''
During the Edo period, fire fighters, carpenters and plasterers wore happis as a working uniform.
Today we usually put them on festivals. Men and women of all of ages can wear a happi.

This is our original happi.


They look more handsome with the happi, right?

Come here and take your photo with our cool happi and feel the Japanese Matsuri spirit!

Marcin were walking around Asakusa, and he found a great gift.

He got a tiny cute Yukata. Yukata is a casual summer kimono.
Originally, they were worn as bath robes by both men & women,
but nowadays, people wear them casually during the summer, such as fireworks shows
and summer festivals.

Guess who is gonna wear it?

His dog!

Can you imagine his little pooch puts it on?
That's so adorable.
I'll show you guys the picture of his dog wearing Yukata later on.
Marcin, please don't forget to send me the picture.
I can't wait to see it!

Popular Japanese Udon company ''はなまるうどん'' （English signs read MANMARU)
opened a new store for Expo 2010 Shanghai in China!
Hanamaru is a popular fast food Udon chain restaurant in Japan.
The cheapest Udon bowl is just 105 yen.
Their udon noodle is firm and tasty.
Besides Udon, they offer a self service Tempura bar, curry & rice, and beef bowl.

So many varieties of Tempura!

What is good about Udon is that Udon noodles have almost no fat.
Compared to Ramen noodle soup, Udon noodle soup is based on fish soup.　
Which means, no cholesterol! Good for your beer belly.

Their popular menu is Udon bowl with half boiled egg.
Japanese people love to eat raw eggs, but for Chinese, they don't get used to eat raw eggs.
Let me make sure. Half boiled egg in Udon is awesome!
Try once. You have to trust me.

Here is their menu,
http://www.hanamaruudon.com/company_outline/company3.html
You can find their branch store near from our hostel.
Access map: http://r.tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131102/13041635/dtlmap/

May 5 is the Boy's festival.
It's time for celebrating and wishing for boys' growth.
Let's display carp-shaped streamers, Samurai dolls, and eat KASHIWA-MOCHI!!

Kashiwa-Mochi is a seasonal Japanese sweet consists of a sweet rice cake
wrapped in kashiwa (oak) leaves.
Oak leaves don’t actually fall until new buds emerge, that's why they are used for the symbol of strength.
There are two types of sweet paste inside the cake; either a sweet bean paste
or a mixture of miso and bean paste.

Tsuyoshi is having Kashiwa-Mochi...
Take one bite,

And he became an a Japanese mixed martial arts fighter.

Don't you think they just look same???

Our Breakfast Revolution

We made an effort to make our breakfast more attractive.,
First, my college friend, Masaki who visits to Japan for a few days is making a breakfast menu for us.

He took an art major with me in college. He made a nice calligraphy.
Drinking and making art is the best way to come out a great idea for him.
He did the same thing while in college, too. lol

Look, it's more emphasized, right?

Next, today is Hiro's debut of making soup.

Soup Minester Johrel taught him how to make a delicious onion soup.
Onion soup is great, but personally, I love Johrel's cream mushroom soup.
Hiro, keep practicing to make a good soup to fill up my stomach lol

Yesterday, Apr 30, we were having nice world beers at Sakura Cafe @ Ikebukuro just like normal days.
I had Tsunami beer that is NO.1 Hawaiian beer. That beer is made of mineral water. Tastes awesome!
After couple bottles done, a ramen freak Daniel took us to Hakata Furyu ramen store.
This chain ramen noodle store gives you 2 free noodles, and costs only 500 yen.
You can choose 2 flavors, normal Tonkotsu (Pork soup) flavor and spicy miso flavor.
That's why Daniel goes 5 times a week even. lol

Then we saw many fire engines in front of Ikebukuro station.

There were so many people rubbernecking at the accident.　

According to the news, somebody sprayed tear gus to random people.
Those people who got spray were sent to a hospital.
This accident reminds me an act of domestic terrorism happening in 1995
named Sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway.
The cult group, AUM Shinrikyo released sarin gas on several lines of the Tokyo Subway.
Because of the attack, 12 people died and some 6000 were injured.

Good part is that nobody died by yesterday's incident.
Even though Japan is still considered as a safe country, we should be aware of dangerousness.

Genius artist, Marcin designed my name tag.

My ''O'' became Sakura flower. It is related to Sakura symbol of this hostel.

How pretty.

''Look at my driver's license!''

Well...I can't see clearly.
Let me see.

OMG. This is the coolest driver's license I've ever seen.
This gangster cat names ''Nameneko.'' Nameneko comes from the word ''なめんなよ (Namennayo).''
It is a japanese slang, that means ''Don't bullshit me'' or ''Don't look down on me''
and generally used in daily conversation since it become a big hit in 1980.
But a lot of people showed this license for checking ID, so that police complained about it.

This is how Nameneko looks like.

This is not a composite photograph. Those kittens actually wear costumes.
People make them to stand up and put them on those gangster costumes. Amazing right?

You definitely should get one. You can get those items near our hostel.
It costs only 100 yen.
When a police man asks you about this license, just say ''Namennayo.'' lol

On Apr 25, we had a Wadaiko Tour in Ryogoku. Wadaiko means Japanese drums.
Are you guys ready? Let's go!

On the way to Ryogoku, I found many people taking a picture. A famous Kabuki actor,
Ichikawa Danjuro was in Senso-ji temple. The bold guy in the back is him.
I know I don't have any sense of taking a picture.

I was chasing the guy and I got lost...oops

And I heard a nice chorus, then I found a temple concert was held in the temple.

Anyway, I got there in safe except Naoto hold me in headlocks.
The seats were full of the guests. There were about 500 people.
Some people could't take a seat, like me :(

The concert started!
The sound of the taiko had a tremendous power. The music's beat flowed through my body.

Showing many kinds of taiko.

A ritual dance by a performer wearing a lion's mask calls ''Shishimai''

The shishimai came over to the guests, and bite their heads or hands.
Once you got a bite from the lion, you can get a good luck in this year.
Normally, people have a Shishimai bite in the beginning of the year.

Finale

After the concert taking a picture in front of rake decoration called ''Kumade'' in Japanese.
It is believed from Edo period (100 years ago) that a rake carries happiness and wealth
to a buyer in business.

On the way back, we stopped by a Chankonabe restaurant.
Chankonabe is a Japanese stew eaten by sumo wrestlers.
It has variety of ingredients, such as meat, veggies, tofu, gluten, Kuzu starch noodle, and so on.
We ordered a spicy chanko stew with ramen noodle in the end.
I had a chankonabe for the first time in my life.
I liked it at all! I def will come to eat them again!

Even I missed the first walking tour part, I could get to know a new Japanese culture!!

In Japan, people don't hitchhike normally.
But this guy is ambitious for hitchhiking.

It takes 7 or 8 hours to get to Kyoto by car.
If he is so lucky, some truck driver will pick him up, I guess.
Good luck, man.

Marcin is an artist. Yesterday, we went to Sakura International Party together.
We had to wear pink item, so creative Marcin made a nice Sakura piercing.
He cut Sakura picture out from our brochure, and put a hole in the middle, and put on his nose piercing.

What a genius.

Hiro stopped by at the hostel in this morning.
He finished work at 5 am, and went to Tsukiji fish market directly after.
He brought a popular Japanese style omelet and egg cake.

Delicious!!

Hiro told me when he stays overnight, his eyes turns to obscene. lol
He looks like a famous Japanese Yakuza actor, Sho Aikawa.

'Hey egg, wanna ride on me?'

Yaaay! Time for changing a door knob!

Nice and tidy looks.
Good job, Tsuyoshi.

Yesterday, TV crews came over at Sakura Hotel Jimbocho,
and our hero Daniel had an interview about the impression of love hotel in Japan.
He was on TV a year ago, too. He will be a super star in the near future???

Japanese popular comedian, TKO showed his funny performance to the guests at the hotel,
but unfortunately, the guests were just giggling. lol

The show will be on TV soon. I'll make an announcement more details later.

By the way, what is your image of love hotels in Japan?
It is like a sexual theme park.
If you haven't been there yet, why don't you go to explore?
Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Uguisudani, those areas are paradise of love hotels.

Seeing is believing.

Robin's family is the cutest family ever!
They are so friendly and always told me interesting stories.

One day, Robin showed me an incredible item.
It is a beautiful Robin's family picture in crystal.
This is a special remembrance I guess.

From the top

From the side

And one more great info from Robin,
they went to the Ninja restaurant in Akasaka, named NINJA AKASAKA.
You can check out how cool the restaurant is!
http://www.ninjaakasaka.com/youtube.html

Thank you for staying with us, Robin, beautiful Robin's wife and cute children!
I hope I will see you guys in the near future.

Yabusame, or the horseback archery that takes place in Asakusa,
has a very long history, and it is held annually in April.

During the Edo era, it was held every year on January 5
as one of the New Year's special events at Asakusa Shrine.

This event has been described in detail in such historic documents
as Sensoji-shi (A History of Sensoji Temple) and
Toto-saijiki (The Chronicle of the East Capital).

Today, Asakusa Yabusame follows the traditional style recreated with
the cooperation of the head of the Ogasawara School of Archery and Horsemanship,
and it’s held at Sumida Park at 10 am.
Don't miss it!!

Come to the party at Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro on Fri, Apr 23.

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 get 2 Drinks and Food Tickets (315 yen each) when you arrive.
And you should wear any pink items.

I am going to be there for sure, cuz Ikemen (good-looking) bar tenders are coming!

Let's make new friends and enjoy a range of cocktails, beers and snacks.

Jack's family came over to our hostel.

Look, how fast Jack's daughter grew up. Now she turns 2 years old.
Jack's little sweet daughter, Miyu chan in July, 2008.

Doesn't she look like Jack???
Ahhh, so cute.

They can sleep anywhere.
Naoto had such a long day...

Soccer freak, Tsuyoshi decorated the wall as 2010 FIFA World Cup Matches.

I got a soccer jersey for this tournament. It is actually last year's Japan uniform tho :p
If you want to get team jerseys, you can go to a major soccer shop called 'Kamo.'
It's located in Ikebukuro and Harajuku.

I am so ready to watch the world cup games on TV. Our hostel will be packed with soccer mania.

Our Sakura Tree keeps blooming.

But here is one problem. The sparrows are poking at our precious tree,
so that the petals are flying apart...
Sparrows, next time you poke our sakura, I'll cut your tongue!

Japanese pop art and exhibition, 'Kawaii part 2' is coming soon!
'Kawaii' event has been held since last year. 'Kawaii' means not only cute or pretty,
but also one of the key cultural words among young Japanese.
Nowadays, 'Kawaii' culture is spreading worldwide through fashion and art.

Variety of talented artists exhibit their highly original figurine,
animations, and illustrative art in Kawaii part 2.

Where is the event to be held?
Design Festa Gallery Harajuku
This is how the gallary looks like

I went there on the other day. The building is so funky.
Their vending machines and their toilet are decorated by artists.

Design Festa Gallery Harajuku is listed in numerous travel guides as
a "must visit sightseeing spot." They have a nice cafe named Design Festa Cafe, too.
You can chill out in their cafe after appreciating art.

Kawaii part 2
Apr 10-Apr16 from 11am-8pm
Opening party on Apr 10 (Sat) 4:30pm-7:30pm @ Design Festa Cafe
MAP http://www.designfestagallery.com/submenu/contact/index.html

For more info http://www.designfestagallery.com/program/event/index_en.html

Let me introduce our new staff, Hiro.

Hello.
My name is Hiro.

My house is Japanese temple, My father & big brother are priest.
Very traditional family.

But,I love Overseas culture.
I have traveled around the world by a motobike.
And I learned Brasilian sports"Capoeira" for 4 years

Sorry,I can not speak English well.
Everybody, please teach me English.
Let's talk about Martial arts!
Of couse, come on persons who wants to fight with me also!!

This is our new cleaning staff, Nara san.
Sometimes I help cleaning up, so I know how hard it is.
Please take care yourself very well.

Yaaay! Our Hanami Party went pretty good.
We had a good weather, and cherry blossoms are blooming perfectly.
Look at Daniel's huge smile.

Sky tree is behind us. What a perfect location.

People were just chilling under the sun.

We had nice booze.

Naoto was prefer eating rather than drinking.

Even though it was windy, and our stuffs were kept blowing away, we had a good time.

Look how much liquors I brought.

Having so much good time means you must have a bad hangover on the next day...lol

If you have facebook account, you can check out more photos of our Hanami party.
This is our page, named as Sakura Hotel & Hostel in Tokyo, Japan
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sakura-Hotel-Hostel-in-Tokyo-Japan/220350084985
Photo page
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=27104&id=220350084985&ref=mf

Today was last day for Arai-san, our cleaning staff for 8 month.
She is always cheerful and nice to everyone.

Giving beautiful flowers like Arai-san.
Please do not care about Naoto's funny face. lol

Beauty and the flowers

She lives just 10 mins walk from our hostel, so please stop by anytime just say hi.

Thank you for giving me advices of good place to eat around Asakusa.
Here is Arai-san's recommended restaurant,

Name of restaurant: 'Koyanagi' (Unajyu or Unadon,
a Japanese dish with sliced eel served on a bed of rice)
Location: Near from Star's Plaza Asakusa Public Hall

Otukaresamadesita!!!

Have you ever done drinking outside? Some countries are illegal but not in Japan!
Now, we are planning to have Hanami party next week.
We will have a short trip to the Sumida River where cherry blossoms are blooming nicely every year.
This is how Sumida River looks like.

Meeting Place and time:
2:00 PM on April 1 st (Thu) at Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Let's play music and drink outside together while watching beautiful
cherry blossoms from middle of the day.
It is going to be so much fun i bet!

Are you chocoholic? Try one of Japanese popular chocolate snacks, 'Koala's March.'

What's Koala's March? It a bite sized cookie snack filling with chocolate. Their shape has lots of variety of Koala's pattern, like this Koala bear with Mt. Fuji.

We have an original one and a strawberry flavored one. We sell them for 150 yen each.
Everyone loves this snack! It's definitely worth a try!

Go to Meguro River Sakura Festa 2010!
You can enjoy watching cherry blossoms at the banks of Meguro River while watching live jazz music and having nice wine and stone oven baked pizza.

Admission is free.
Date: March 27 (Sat) & 28 (Sun)
Time: 12:00-18:30
Place: Meguro River Funairiba
Near station: Nakameguro

Look! Our cherry tree is just started to burst.

We got one blossom. Good start so far.

Ahh, I can't wait to see this cherry tree will be in full of blossom.

3 days off weekend is just started! Do you guys have any plan?
There are some events in this weekend.

Oedo Antique Fair
The largest antique market in Japan.
March 21 (Sun)
9:00-16:00
place: Tokyo International Forum (JR Yurakucho Sta)

Shinagawa Intercity Flea Market
March 21, 22
10:00-16:00
Place: Shinagawa Intercity (Shinagawa Sta)

Seibu-en Amusement Park
March 20
10:00-20:00
You can get a FREE ENTRANCE TICKET on that day!
Place: Seibu Yu-enmchi Sta or Yu-enchi Nishi Sta (Seibu Shinjuku line)

Have fun :)

Rikugien is one of Tokyo's beautiful landscape gardens and it was build in Edo period.

From today, Rikugien just started lighting up the sakura trees
(the cherry blossom trees) at night.
You can see the lighting up event until March 31,
There sakura trees are still in bud, but they are almost ready to burst.
If you understand Japanese, you want to call 03-3941-2351.
You can check up blooming of Rikugien's sakura 24/7. ?

Once you decide the date to go there, bring this ticket with you,
and you can get a discount of entrance fee (300 yen→240 yen).

This ticket is included other gardens in Tokyo, like Hama-rikyu Gardens,
Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens and so on.

This ticket is available at our hostel. Get it hurry before running out.

Rokugien Garden
Location: 6-chome, Moto Komagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Access : JR, Tokyo-Metro Nanboku-sen line, Komagome Station, 7-minute walk.
Toei-Chikatetu-Mitasen line, Sengoku Station, 10-minute walk.
Open hours: 9:00-20:30 (closed at 21:00)

Last Monday was Yuya's last working day.

He got a present! yay!

What's inside.....?

Naoto chose a Sakura pattern underwear for Yuya's last day gift. What a good taste. lol

Don't forget us & stop by anytime! Ikemen boy like you are always welcomed!

March in Japan is graduation ceremony season.
Female college students wear 'Hakama' (= a traditional Japanese cloth) like these girls.

These are men's version of Hakama.

Until Edo period, Hakama is worn by men only. However, female college students have started to wear Hakama since Meiji period as a school uniform.

When you see students wearing Hakama, you should say to them 'Sotsugyou Omedetou Gozaimasu' (Congrats for graduation).

Tomorrow, March 14 is White Day. Only Asian countries
(Japan, Korea, Taiwan) have such a custom.
Back in 1980s, the National Confectionary Industry Association
started having a White day. They wanted to sell their confectionaries more.
So they set up White day as giving a gift back to the girl who gave
chocolates or some other gifts on Valentine's Day. Candies, Marshmallows,
and white chocolates are common gift. White day's 'White' came from sugar.

Guys, this is the time for you showing how much you love your girl. If you
got something from your GF on Valentine's Day, you must give her back something.

Still not get anything?
Get off your ass right now!
You still have 24 hours left.

Mick is leaving today. He can't bring Rirakkuma (Relaxing bear) with him, because there is no space left for Rirakkuma.

So sad... We have to be separated....ahhhh....

after a while...

He is already relaxing in our office lol
I hope Mick is not going to be stressed out after getting away from Rirrakuma.

I am obsessed with Onion Rings!

Try this onion rings at Watami
(Watami is one of Japanese Izakaya = drinking bar)

This one is different from any other onion rings.
Why? This is much thicker like American onion rings,
and you can taste little bit of curry spice.
I think this is the best onion ring in Japan.
Even tho you are not that big fan, it's worth just trying!

What's your obsession?

Kevin's first trial of peeling off the plastic wrapped Onigiri

Having a struggle time...
Don't mess up.

You made it! Omedetou!

I tried both of their new Sakura menu on the other day.
Sakura Flappuccino has Sakura chocolate on the top.
Hot one called `Sakura Steamer.` Personally, I like Sakura Steamer better. I am not that big sweets fan, so that one is less sweet and I can taste Sakura flavor a little bit. Sakura flavor is perfectly matched with hot milk.
This week is going to be raining all the time. If you feel blue by this rain,
go to Starbucks and you can feel spring little bit earlier.

Today is Hinamatsuri. Families with young girls celebrate a girl's
festival with displaying doll sets.
Normally, we have `Chirashizushi` (sushi rice topped with raw fish,
shrimp, a lotus root, and shredded egg on top) and clam soup.
According to an old tradition, a shrimp means long life, a lotus root
means better prospect for future. Clam shells are the symbol of
a perfectly matched couple, because a pair of clam shells fits perfectly,
and no pair except the original pair.

And also we decorate Hishi-mochi (diamond shaped rice cake).
Each color has meaning, like top red color means get rid of evil,
white color means pure, and long life, green color means good health.
The another interpretaion is that those 3 colors show spring.
A new sprout (green color) is waiting for coming up from under
the snow (white color) while peach flower is in bloom.

Have a nice 'Girl's day' :)

The biggest anime event is coming soon! A large group of `cosplay`
(dressing up as anime characters) people will throng the halls to
promote the anime show. And also one of popular animation,
'One Piece' has 10th anniversary celebration.

If you are a big anime freak, don't miss it!

Tokyo International Anime Fair
March 27 (Sat) & 28 (Sun) at Tokyo Big Sight
Admission for adults is 800 yen in advance and 1000 yen at the door.
Opens at 10 am-6 pm

Even tho this morning was raining, our hero Johrel made
a great job for Tokyo Marathon.
Look at his lovely smile. We are so proud of you.

Next time you see Johrel, say `OTSUKARE=good job` to him:)
I hope he doesn't get cold or something.

One day I was watching a sumo game on TV.
Then I'm just wondering why Sumo wrestlers shave their body hair?
Maybe to protect that their opponents will have less to grab onto while fighting?
Do they shave everywhere by themselves? Sheve each other?
It just my small wonder...

Tomorrow, Sunday, Feb 28, Tokyo Marathon is going to be held!
Our staff, Johrel will be in the race.

You can actually check split time for every 5 km interval thru PC site and Mobile site. You can just put the runner's bib number or the runner's name.
Let's keep eyes on Johrel on F31647!!

PC site
http://p.tokyo42195.org/

Mobile site
http://r.tokyo42195.org/

Daniel is having a good time. He tried a pack of Sake on the other day.

He was doing pregame by himself. lol

You can drink anywhere in Japan, such as on a road, in a train, in a car.
just anywhere. Having a party outside while watching cherry blossom is
pretty popular event in Japan during spring season. If you are struggling with
not able to drink outside in your country, just come to Japan!
and let's have fun together.

Go Mao! You can do this!

I forgot that I am working at that moment.
Me and Yuri were so into today's figure skating tornament.

We were like a mother watching over her child. lol
Yuri were almost crying even.

Kim Yuna placed 1st place so far. She got 78.50 points;
a new world record. Mao Asada placed in 2nd place with
73.78 points. I just don't know why there is a huge diffrence
between them. Mao land 2 perfect triple axels in the program.
I am so disappointed to the judges.

Let's bet who's winning for this game.
I bet Mao's gonna take a gold medal, of course!

Are you interested in the latest fashions? shopping? celebreties?
Here is the best option for you.
`TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION`
What is Tokyo Girls Collection? This is an amazing fashion show event.
This show is just different from any other show. What is cool about it?
This show is included a fashion show, live music performances, cat walk
by the most popular Japanese models. And the coolest part is that if you
like the clothes of model's wearing, you can actually buy them immediately
through their mobile website!
To get in this event, you need to have a ticket. This event is pretty popular,
that's why tickets will be sold out so fast.

Now are you getting more interested?
Check out their website.
You can make a reservation thru their website.
http://gw.tv/tgc/10SS/whats_en/index.html

Another option is that you can join the tour called
`TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION TOUR' sponsered by JTB network.
They can pick you up at the Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal and
transfer you to the show. If you feel like shopping after watching
a cool show, they transfer you to Outlet mall after the show.

More info is on their website.
http://www.jtbgmt.com/about/news_100208.html

Today's Tokyo's weather is 10°C! (Approx 40 °F) Yay!
I was waiting for long time to see sunny day like today.
What a nice day to go out. If you haven't had any plan for tomorrow,
I recommend to see a plum tree, called `Ume` in Japanese. There are
150 Ume trees at Sumida Park in Asakusa. It is not a lot, but you can
see 10 different kinds of Ume. You also can see Sky Tree at this park.
Just walking around under the nice weather is the most relaxing moment.
Have a nice relaxing day tomorrow!

http://mainichi.jp/enta/sports/10olympic/news/20100219k0000e050074000c.html

On Feb 18, Daisuke Takahashi won the bronze medal in men's figure
skating at the 2010 winter olympics. It is the first time that Japan won
the Olympic medal in Men's figure skating. Even tho he missed the four
times spinning, he peformed perfectly. I'm so proud of him.
Also, there are other 2 Japanese guys, Nobunari Oda (in 7th place) and
Takahiko Kozuka ( in 8th place), competed in the men's figure skating.
Who do you think the best performer? In person, Takahashi is the best guy.
He performes the best skating step in the world. He is such a good looking guy,
and sexy, so many Japanese girls are into him. I'm one of them.
Keep eyes on him. He is gonna be a big star near future.