RISE MAY 2022

ISSUE: MAY 2022 PAGE 01

RISE

MONTHLY JOURNAL FROM JAPAN

LETTER FROM EDITORS DESK

Dear Reader, Apart from new openings / additions in Japan, some of the older
iconic buildings are being brought down, making way for newer
Ohayo Gozaimasu!! better tomorrow. One such iconic building was The Nakagin
Capsule Hotel, built in central Tokyo in 1972. It was the greatest
Month of April, marked beginning of new season and with arrival legacy of the “Metabolism” architecture school. Despite its rarity,
of spring, there are lot of changes that happen all across Japan. promoters decided it is time for the building to make way for
New recruits join organization and begin their journey to fulfil modern skyscraper. Another such iconic street was Sakura Dori
personal and organisational goals. There was some relaxation Street, it was famous for cherry blossom trees that lined the street,
that were offered from Japan government side to welcome but to make way for a new building few of the trees were uprooted.
business, student, family and dependents into Japan. Hope the Still one side of the street has Sakura trees and hope in coming
trend continues and Japan soon welcomes tourist, as country days it would be all be beautiful.
had closed it borders now for little over two years.

For anime lovers, Gundam Park has opened at the Mitsui Japan is ever changing and this is the beauty of the people, that
Shopping Park LalaPort Fukuoka on 25April. Outside the park they quickly adapt change and make way for neo modern cities to
there will be twenty-five-meter-tall statue of RX93v Gundam. If thrive. It will be a welcoming change for even people who have
you wish to relive the nostalgia of Nintendo then Kyoto should visited Japan in past, as most of the cities have undergone change /
be in your itinerary and plan a stay at Marufukuro Hotel, earlier upgradation. Japan's National Stadium, that hosted Olympics is now
it was the head quarter of Nintendo. It still restores lot of open to visitors, we hope Japan as a country also opens up for
original elements. Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel has also tourist in days to come.
opened its doors to welcome guest, read more about it inside
RISE magazine. Stay Safe. Arigato Gozaimasu.

IN FOCUS PAGE 02

EXPLORING THE LOST WORLD OF SAMURAI

BY SHARAD SHARMA

As one paints a picture of Japan, it is A samurai would live life according to The Edo Period saw the coming
incomplete without a Samurai warrior. the ethic code of Bushido, "the way of together of Japan, and peace prevailed
Let's decode and understand the the warrior," and some also followed for approx. Two hundred fifty years,
legacy of the Samurai and where we Zen Buddhism. It was all about loyalty, which saw a decline in war and also in
could experience the bygone era while self-discipline, respect, and moral martial skills. Most of the Samurai
enjoying modern Japan. behaviour. became bureaucrats, teachers, or
artists. Japan's feudal era eventually
The Samurai were the warriors from During the early years of the Heina ended in 1868, and the samurai class
the premodern era who later made up Period, the warriors were hired by was abolished a few years later.
the ruling military class, the highest- wealthy landlords for protection, and
ranking officials during the Edo period slowly, they built their private armies. While the era of Samurai or Ninja may
(1603 to 1867). They were highly trained This trend continued for the next 700 have ended, many Japanese
to combat in any situation with years until Japan was unified during corporations still follow the Bushido
weapons like bows and arrows, spears, the Edo period. Ninja warriors have code of conduct for excellence in the
and guns, but their main weapon and also emerged in all these years, workplace. Samurai-related attractions
symbol was the sword. bringing different warfare skills.
Continued to page 03

IN FOCUS PAGE 03

can well be experienced across Japan The most interesting way to discover Samurai history and culture. One such
in the modern era, at castles, historic Samurai culture is by following the place is The Japanese Sword Museum,
residences, museums, historically Samurai trails. The Nakasendo was one Tokyo, and it houses the largest public
themed amusement parks, and dress- of the five routes that connected Edo collection of swords that were an
up tours. (today Tokyo) to Kyoto, passing essential part of Samurai culture; open
through the mountainous terrain of the from 0930 hrs to 1700 hrs and is closed
Japan has a lot of castles built on Kiso Valley along the way. One of the every Monday and New Year Holidays.
mountains, hills, or high ground for the best-preserved towns in Nakasendo is The Tokugawa Art Museum in Nagoya,
protection of cities, and Samurais Nari, connecting Yabuhara, which is which exhibits armour, swords, tea
guarded these. Today, only 12 of these still intact. It is a 6 km trek that takes utensils, artwork, and household items
castles remain; most of them are approximately 03 hours to complete. once used by Samurais, is open from
modern reconstructions. Most of the The hike starts at Yabuhara station and 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs and closed every
castles display samurai artefacts and ends at Narai station, connected by JR Monday. The Maeda and Honda
lifestyle-related items. trains. Museums in Kanazawa display relics of
the two most prominent samurai
To separate the Samurai from the rest At the end of the hike, you overlook families in the region.
of the city people, they were given Narai, the longest town in the
residences in designated districts near Nakasendo, with 50 historic buildings Kyoto Samurai Experience is the
the castle town. City councils have lining a one-kilometre stretch of road. destination to learn and experience the
preserved houses that Samurais once These beautifully preserved buildings skills of a samurai. During the session
inhabited, and now travellers can enjoy are home to shops, restaurants, cafes, at the centre, it offers a glimpse into
the exhibits. Some districts spread small museums, and inns. the philosophy of Bushido, the way of
across Japan that offer the best the warrior, through wielding a real
Samurai house exhibits are located in On the other side, museums are the katana and Zen meditation used by the
Kitsuki, Kakunodate, Nagamachi in best places to experience past culture Samurai to calm their minds during
Kanazawa, Hagi Castle Town, Bitchu- and heritage. Most of the museums in battle. Prior reservation is mandatory,
Takahashi at the base of Matsuyama Japan would display a few samurai and it is open for sessions from 1000
Castle, Matsue, Kumamoto, and Aizu- swords or armors. But the specialised hrs to 1200 hrs and 1300 hrs to 1700 hrs
Wakamatsu. museums are the ones to visit if one is with holidays on Saturday and Sunday.
interested only in understanding

M.I.C.E. SPACE PAGE 04

THE LUIGANS SPA AND RESORT, FUKUOKA

BY KARL BAHCECI - FUKUOKA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

As one of Japan`s most populous The area of Umi no Nakamichi is also spaces and banquet halls that can
cities Fukuoka is a highly convenient of particular interest as the historical accommodate up to 300 people
and accessible urban destination. island of Shikanoshima is quite close allowing you to plan meetings or
However, one of the other sides to by. For those with an interest in gatherings for all occasions. As for food
the city is its proximity to nature. Japanese culture and history this the resort can also accommodate
For those who seek to get away from could be the perfect chance to learn vegetarian dietary needs as well,
city life I recommend The Luigans more. meaning that there will be something
Spa and Resort. Located on the for everyone.
relaxed and balmy national The resort is host to impeccable and
government park known as Umi no relaxed facilities that call to mind a For those who wish to use the facilities
Nakamichi it is but 20 minutes away coastal bungalow like feeling whilst to commemorate a job well-done or
from the center of Fukuoka by bus. also providing a formal meeting space. even to celebrate a long-awaited trip
The Luigans resort is located on a The garden outside is capable of to Japan, the resort even allows you to
narrow strip of land that separates accommodating up to 500 people for hold a fireworks viewing party in the
Hakata from the open Genkai Sea, outdoor parties all while you take in a garden. The combined imagery of
which means that you can actually panoramic view of Fukuoka across the fireworks overhead and Fukuoka
see Fukuoka directly across the bay bay. Yet for those wishing to hold illuminated by light at night is truly a
from the hotel. their meeting indoors The Luigans sight to behold.
also has terrific banquet meeting

EXCEPTIONAL STAY PAGE 05

／©Disney Pixar

Slinky ® Dog © Just Play LLC
MR. POTATO HEAD® and MRS. POTATO HEAD® are registered trademarks of Hasbro, Inc.
Used with permission. © Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved

／©Disney Pixar ／©Disney Pixar ／©Disney Pixar

© 2021 and ® Spin Master, Ltd. STORY
All Rights Reserved

TOKYO DISNEY RESORT TOY
HOTEL

BY MILIAL RESORT HOTELS CO., LTD

Milial Resort Hotels Co., Ltd. Buzz Lightyear and Jessie are part of The Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story
announced that the new Tokyo Slinky Dog Park in front of the Hotel offers 595 rooms, with 575
Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel will entrance, while Woody and Bo Peep standard rooms and 20 superior rooms,
open on April 5, 2022. This new can be found in Toy Friends Square, a with room sizes varying from 27m² to
Disney hotel, full of playful designs courtyard off the lobby. The lobby 55m². The hotel's facilities and services
that immerse guests in the creative itself is a colorful, toy-filled space with have been streamlined to provide guests
imagination of Disney and Pixar’s Toy a jigsaw puzzle-inspired floor and a with a new option between the existing
Story films, brings to life the world of ceiling designed to look like a board deluxe and value-type Disney hotels.
toys featured in the popular, award- game. The guest rooms recall Andy’s
winning animated features. From the bedroom from the first Toy Story film, Each guest staying at the hotel can
moment guests arrive, they will feel featuring his iconic blue-sky-and-and- purchase one 1-day passport per day for
like they’ve been shrunk to the size of puffy-white-cloud wallpaper, along one of the parks during their stay. The
a toy. Outside of the hotel, guests will with Woody’s Roundup inspired tickets can be purchased at the hotel.
find oversized toy action play figures, headboards and an oversized Mickey Changes are possible at any time and
each around four meters tall, of their Mouse wristwatch hanging on one of without notice.
favorite pals. the walls, among other toy-like fixtures
and furnishings. ©Disney/Pixar

LITTLE JAUNT PAGE 06

IMAGES © NIIGATA PREFECTURAL TOURIST ASSOCIATION, TO THE GOLD MINE
SADO TOURISM ASSOCIATION

SADO ISLAND-TRIP
OF JAPAN

BY NIIGATA VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU

Sado Island, or Sadogashima, is one of reach Sado Island is by ferry service. Edo period (1603–1867), and the island
Japan’s largest islands, located off the You can either arrive at Niigata Station experienced a gold rush. One can make
coast of Niigata. Sado Island is shaped or Niigata Airport, take a local taxi or a visit to one of these gold mines here.
like an "S" or like a butterfly. Sado bus, arrive at Niigata Port. Take a Sado Kinzan was the most productive
Island covers an area of approximately hydrofoil from Niigata Port to Sado mine in Japan. During the 388 years it
855 square kilometres, and its coastline Island Ryotsu Port, which is about a produced 78 tons of gold and 2,330
stretches for approximately 280 one-hour journey. You can also arrive tons of silver.
kilometres. Sado Island’s climate is at Sado Island Ogi Port, which
oceanic, with distinct changes across connects with Naoetsu Port. There are The Sado Kinzan Gold Mine has been
the four seasons. It is hot and humid in no trains on Sado Island, so the easiest opened to the public. The "Sōdayū Kō,"
the summer and very cold in the way to move around the city is by local or "Sōdayū Tunnel Course," lets you
winter. taxis or buses. walk through the remains of the
tunnels dug in the early days of the
The easiest and most common way to A rich gold mine was found during the
Continued to page 07

LITTLE JAUNT PAGE 07

SADO ISLAND-TRIP TO THE GOLD MINE
OF JAPAN
IMAGES © NIIGATA PREFECTURAL TOURIST ASSOCIATION,
SADO TOURISM ASSOCIATION

Edo period. There are signboards and Another interesting visit to Sado Island market value than pure gold. You can
speaking dolls explaining the work is the Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park. learn about the history of gold in the
being enacted, giving visitors a feel of Visitors can experience the actual exhibition room on-site, and there is a
how work was done by hand in Edo preparation of gold dust on Sado souvenir shop featuring their original
times. You can also visit Meiji Era Island. You can try gold panning for goods, including sweets and jewelery.
tunnels: the "Dōyū Kō," or "Dohyu gold on three levels: beginner, The facility can be visited anytime of the
Tunnel Course,"where you can explore intermediate, and advanced. It works year. Sado Island offers unique stay
the ruined tunnels made with advanced by using a green plate with lines on its options along with adventure, food, Noh
technology and used for 100 years, as side, to shake and remove gravel in theatre, taiko drumming, and traditional
well as go all the way to Warito’s base; water. The relatively heavier gold dust handicraft experiences as well. You can
and the "Adventurer’s Tour," in which will appear at the bottom. The gold either plan a quick one-day visit or even
you can equip boots and a cap light and that you panned can be made into a plan to stay multiple days at Sado Island
explore authentic tunnels with a guide. souvenir like a pendant or a phone depending upon your interest. Take a
There is a museum and a souvenir strap. The gold dust harvested here is detour from Tokyo and plan your visit to
section as well. called "natural gold" and has a higher Sado Island.

INSIGHT PAGE 08

DARUMA- A SYMBOL OF TENACITY AND
TRUE GRIT

BY NIMISHA UPADHYAY

There is an English Proverb that goes Made in Japan’s Takasaki city, the red, h and 6th centuries. He was the one
something like “If you fall down seven round, bodiless dolls are created from who introduced Zen Buddhism to
times, get up eight times.” We’ve a special type of traditional hand-made China, and was the one who brought
heard, read and used this several paper, Washi, which is only made in Shaolin Kung Fu, Green Tea and Zazen
times, but do you know that this winter. They are hollow in the middle, meditation to the Japanese people.
proverb actually originated in Japan? with a heavy bottom, which helps them Legend has it that his perseverance for
bounce back up when pushed down. enlightenment was so great that his
Nanakorobi yaoki. This, of course, represents the limbs and body withered away during
Daruma’s indomitable spirit and his nine-year long penance, yet his
“Fall down seven times, stand up determination. The eyes of the doll are spirit continued on undaunted, a spirit
eight.” left intentionally blank. When the which is now immortalized in the
owner of the doll decides his goal, he Daruma dolls.
A phrase found commonly attached paints one eye of the doll black. When
with a very special talisman in he has achieved his goal, he paints in Ultimately, the Daruma doll is simply a
Japanese culture, a good-luck charm, the second eye, symbolizing success symbol of your drive to achieve what
the Daruma Doll. and wish-fulfillment. The Daruma doll you want in life. Your goal and your
now stands as a testimony of the hard plans to accomplish it are your own,
The Daruma doll stands for work of the person who has the Daruma is only a token to remind
Perseverance, what the Japanese call accomplished his dream. you to be proactive each day, soldier
the ganbaru spirit. The road of life is on to attain what you’re destined for
filled with pitfalls. Only the person The Daruma dolls are based on the and the most important of all, to never
who gets up and continues each time Bodhidharma (Daruma-Daishi in ever give up, in spite of whatever
he stumbles is the one who reaches Japanese), a monk who lived in the 5t obstacles you may have to face.
the pinnacle of glory.

GOURMET PAGE 09

AUTHENTIC GOAN FOOD IN HARAJUKU

BY SONIA SINGH

Harajuku in Tokyo is known for its friends, we were exploring Harajuku The 90`s was a time when most people
offbeat culture in both clothing and and stumbled upon a surprise. A smile wanted to stay and work in Canada or
music. Located a few minute's walking was on everyone’s faces while looking the USA. But it was the atmosphere,
distance from Meiji Shrine, Harajuku at the board that read "Viva Goa Indian culture, food, and traditions of Japan
cannot be missed, especially the Café," and we knew that we were going that drew Greg to settle there. During
Takeshita Dori an extremely crowded to have a great time eating our very that time, it was very rare for anyone to
street, which is known as the temple of own Goan cuisine in Japan. There is no opt to stay and work in Japan given the
Japanese Kawaii Fashion. You can find greater joy than finding food you love language barrier. Whilst he was living in
everything here: clothes, accessories, in a distant land. Japan in the early days as a bachelor he
makeup, and even trendy foods. From severely missed Goan food, and that was
vintage stores to high-end brands like This restaurant was started by a the starting point of Viva Goa Café well
Louis Vuitton and big shopping malls couple, Gregory Azavedo (candidly supported by his wife Breenda
like Tokyu Plaza, the shopping called Greg) and his wife, Breenda established in September 2014, with a
experience is like no other. Fernandes. Greg migrated to Japan in 34-seat capacity. Breenda is also a
1997 to join the information and Certified Deco Clay Art Instructor”
During my last trip to Tokyo, which technology industry and Breenda having completed all her certifications
was in 2019, along with a group of arrived in 2002 after their marriage. at Tokyo.

Continued to page 10

GOURMET PAGE 10

BIRYANI BENTO SPECIAL GOAN THALI

This restaurant is the first Goan restaurant They can also customise food for strict enjoying the apple-fruit plucking activity.
in Japan serving sea food and other vegetarian meals like Jain on special They also advice tourists to visit and
flavourful curries that are made of coconut request. For vegetarians, Dal Makhani, explore "Koyo" (Autumn Leaves in Japan).
and traditional spices and herbs from Goa, Saag Paneer, Paneer Xacuti comes with The transformation of autumn leaves in
a coastal state in India's southwestern Naan or Chapati as an option. Japan is considered to be one of the
Konkan region. most beautiful sight in the world. Many
It is always advisable to inform the Indian tourists only visit Japan during the
The restaurant is about 3 minute`s walk restaurant on food restrictions prior so cherry blossom season and miss out on
from Harajuku JR and Meiji Jingumae that they can prepare in advance. autumn. They would also recommend
subway station and is in the heart of Another interesting advise from Greg winter time, wherein skiing is very
Harajuku. Before the pandemic the regular was that the restaurants could also popular in Japan. Myoko ski resort is
visitors were tourists from India and other assist with packed food like Biryani recommended for beginners. With family
countries. Viva Goa is also frequented for Bento Boxes or a traditional Indian thali and friends, they like camping around
lunch by Japanese Office workers and Shop bento box. Tokyo. Some of these places are located
owners in the neighbourhood. The just an hour drive from Tokyo and near
restaurant's speciality is Goan food During our lunch, Greg and Breenda Chiba or Mt. Fuji area or even Narita.
however North Indian cuisine is also were candid about there journeys and
available. The signature Goan Thali for adventures in Japan, having explored All these conversations made the
lunch and dinner includes basmati rice, 3 different destinations with their amazing food even more delicious. The
curries and Fish Tava Fry (seared children and friends. They love going servings were a true reflection of the love
Surmai/King Fish). Non-vegetarians can back to Nikko, including Tobu World and passion that Greg and Breenda have
also try Butter Chicken and Chicken Xacuti. Square, followed by Kegon Falls, and for Goan cuisine.

UNWIND PAGE 11

THE FUJI SHIBAZAKURA FESTIVAL

BY EMI ITO

Japan has been popularized for its contrast to the surrounding lake and the the Mt. Fuji Delicious Foods Festival,
cherry blossom season, or Sakura towering, snow-capped Mt Fuji in the held at the same place. The festival
Season, and millions of tourists arrive background. Shibazakura blooming offers outdoor entertainment and a
from around the world to get a glimpse starts in mid-April to late May, large food court with food and drinks
of this season, including travellers coinciding with the Golden Week from all over Japan. Fujinomiya
from India. But there would be very Celebrations. It is considered the second Yakisoba, Fuji-yoshida udon, Fujiyama
few travellers who have heard about hanami season. Admission 800-1000 yen Sweet Bean Buns, mochi, and many
Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri, another depending on the state of the season other dishes were available.
popular flowering season in Japan. with parking: 500 yen per car and entry
timing are from 07Am onward depending Being a tourist attraction, it also has
Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri (Festival) was on the season, do check with local path accessible to visitors with
started in the year 2008 at Fuji authorities before planning a visit. reduced mobility. Besides this one can
Motosuko Resort, near the base of Mt. also combine their tour to nearby
Fuji, and is just about 3 kms away from The location is also popular amongst places like Fuji-Q Highland amusement
Lake Motsuko, one of the five Fuji photographers. The park’s maps are even park and Chureito Pagoda.
Lakes in Yamanishi Prefecture. 800000 marked with the shooting spots to
Shiba zakura flowers, also known as capture the scenic views of flowers with Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri is really
pink moss or moss phlox, cover over Mt. Fuji in the backdrop. worth the visit when traveling in the
2.4 hectares of park.The vibrant pink Five Lakes area in spring.
colour of the flowers is an incredible During this festival, one could also visit

EASY JAPANESE PAGE 12

Useful Let us
Expressions in learn

Japanese


WHERE IS THIS? - KOKO WA DOKO DESU KA?
THIS IS NIIGATA - KOKO WA NIIGATA DESU
NIIGATA IS VERY BEAUTIFUL - NIIGATA WA TOTEMO KIREI DESU
I THINK SO TOO - WATASHI MO SO OMOIMASU
WHICH IS NEAREST AIRPORT TO NIIGATA? - NIIGATA NI
ICHIBAN CHIKAI KUKOU WA DOKO DESUKA?
HOW MUCH TIME IT TAKES TO REACH NIIGATA FROM TOKYO? -
TOKYOU KARA NIIGATA MADE DONO GURAI KAKARIMASUKA?
FROM TOKYO STATION TO NIIGATA STATION, IT TAKES 2 HOURS
BY SHINKANSEN - TOKYO EKI KARA NIIGATA EKI MADE

SHINKANSEN DE 2 JIKAN KAKARI MASU.

PUBLISHED BY NIPPON TAIYO HOSPITALITY, MEDIA DIVISION.
OPINIONS EXPRESSED WITHIN THE CONTENT ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBILITY OF
THE AUTHOR AND DO NOT REFLECT THE OPINIONS AND BELIEFS OF NIPPON
TAIYO HOSPITALITY OR ITS AFFILIATES.
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