Japanese Health Ministry announces proposed ban on smoking in public spaces

So....I just heard about news in Japan of a change that I never ever thought would fly.

Japan, which without a doubt, has what can undeniably be categorized as one of the largest markets for consumers of cigarettes, announced today that there is currently a plan announced by the Health Ministry to call for a nationwide ban on lighting up in bars/restaurants and other public places.

Smoking in public spaces is still very commonplace in Japanese bars and restaurants, so bringing about a nationwide change like this would be massive and certainly welcome by non-smokers and tourists from other countries where smoking in public spaces is not permitted.

Certainly this move towards a 'healthier' lifestyle will be good for everyone, but change is often slow and difficult to effect in Japan....so stay tuned as they say.

All the best...Mark

Four Season's Hotel Chinzan-so offering Maiko meal/performance February 28th

So....as we head into Cherry Blossom season, the Four Season's Hotel Tokyo at Chinzan-so is offering a unique culinary item.

The esteemed hotel's restaurant Miyuki will have an interesting Kyoto focused meal and maiko to entertain diners this month on the 28th. You'll only need to hop on the subway to the Edogawabashi Station and after a 10 minute walk you'll reach the Four Season's Hotel instead of making a special trip all the way to Kyoto.

The maiko performance will highlight a traditional dancing at 15:30 and 15:45 after enjoying your meal which are scheduled to begin at 14:30.

As with all things Four Season's the even will be special indeed - after the show, there will be a photo session with maiko.

With a price of ¥5,800 this is certainly reasonable for all that is offered. Enjoy the experience if you are in Tokyo that day.

All the best...Mark

Roppongi 六本木 Art Night - March 28 & 29, 2010

So....of course we are partial to events in and around Tokyo...so we thought this upcoming event taking place next month might interest art enthusiasts and culture vultures alike.

The Roppongi Art night this March is a one-night only event - from dawn to dusk - celebrating a wide array of art around Roppongi in a variety of venues such as:

Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, The National Art Center,Tokyo, Suntory Museum of Art, public spaces, and participating shops and restaurants in the Roppongi area.

Of course given the time of year, if the weather permits, this might be a wonderful time to check out the cherry blossoms as you walk from exhibit to exhibit.

All the best.......Mark