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Image via WikipediaYoung Japanese man apologises for the terrible and weird ads and movies that are made in Japan. SORRY!!! ^_^ 
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Big trouble Little Nippon is a blog that brings together all the best of Japan and puts it in one place for your viewing pleasure
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Big trouble Little Nippon is a blog that brings together all the best of Japan and puts it in one place for your viewing pleasure
-
Big trouble Little Nippon is a blog that brings together all the best of Japan and puts it in one place for your viewing pleasure.
-
Big trouble Little Nippon is a blog that brings together all the best of Japan and puts it in one place for your viewing pleasure.
Showing posts with label japan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label japan. Show all posts
2010/11/22
2010/09/28
iFlyer
Japan’s music scene opens its arms to a foreign startup
Photography by Mark Oxley
“Suddenly, from knowing everything happening in Osaka, I went to knowing nothing, so I decided to develop a club search engine in Tokyo,” he recalls over lunch near the iFlyer office in Shibuya. “It was kind of ironic because here I was living in the heart of Shibuya, and I didn’t even know I was right down the street from Womb.”
While there were plenty of websites about clubbing in Tokyo at the time, none of them provided an efficient way of finding out what was happening on a given Saturday night. “The way that people searched for events was to go to each club’s site, and the pages weren’t frequently updated,” Nasser says. “So the idea was to make an event search engine that would also be useful on mobile phones—the slogan was, ‘What’s going on?’”
Five years later, iFlyer is Japan’s largest clubbing site, with over 1,700 events listed at any given time, ranging from live concerts to after-hours parties. But it’s more than a simple database—the site is packed with artist profiles, audio and video content, and event reports, in both English and Japanese.
“When you look at a page, it’s actually a massive collaboration between the artist, club and promoter, each of which does the best they can on their own profile,” explains Nasser’s partner, Sach Jobb, an American who came onboard from Kyoto University soon after the company was founded. “We’re kind of a mashup site. We rely on YouTube for the videos, Ustream for live streaming, SoundCloud for music… so you’ve got this collaborative, almost Wiki-style effort to make it as best as possible [sic].”
But things were rough for a foreign startup in the early days. “When we launched iFlyer, marketing it to the clubs was tricky because we had no name value,” Nasser recalls. “It took a lot of persuading to get the clubs to use it, but as soon as they did, they were convinced, because they end up saving so much money.”
The key to getting Japanese clubs onboard was having them use iFlyer for their homepage—meaning they didn’t need to pay a web designer and also had an instant, targeted audience. “If you build a homepage for your club, unless you promote it well, no one is going to come and see it,” Nasser says. “With iFlyer, on any given month we have around 250,000 unique users. They’re coming for a very specific reason.”
“There was definitely a need for it,” chips in Jobb, noting that the firm has major clients like Shibuya’s Club Asia. “When we launched in Osaka, we were surprised by how quickly it grew. And every year we are surprised. We’re pretty proud of our numbers now.”
Like MySpace or Facebook, iFlyer depends on users to both generate content and decide which events are popular. “Without the artists and venues, iFlyer is just a technological shell,” says Nasser, who’s been programming since he was seven. “It’s the artists and promoters and venues who make it what it is. We don’t input any info ourselves—that’s our policy. We treat all events at the same level. The ranking system is all user-driven; it depends on how many users it gets. The formula is not secret, we’re pretty open about how to get ranked highly.”
With Japanese artists now listing their iFlyer sites along with their MySpace and Mixi pages, the company looks to be in a strong position for growth. But, as is always the case with the rapidly shifting hi-tech industry, success can never be taken for granted. For now, the iFlyer crew is just enjoying its run. “There was a lot of pain and suffering at the beginning—for many years it was a lot of hard work with no salary,” Nasser recalls. “But I’m very proud of where we stand. As we move more into the core music industry, it gets very interesting going to events and seeing amazing artists play—it’s both a business and a hobby.”
For more information, see http://iflyer.tv.
2010/09/17
Image via WikipediaIn Japan one thing that you will do a lot of, is walking. The above video demonstrates the lengths Japanese sararimen and OL (office ladies) will go to to perfect the basic Japanese walk. These common maneuvers can be seen in most parts of Tokyo, most commonly experienced by gaijin at the Shibuya crossing.
2010/09/15
Image via Wikipedia It's unfortunate for Apple, that their iPod Nano has been getting bad press. First there was the story of US gyms banning the product, due to vouyeuristic activities, then, Kobe news reported late last week, the arrest of a Japanese man using the Nano to film up an 18-year-old's skirt.
The man, a resident of Kobe, Japan, hid the device in his shoe while 'browsing' around in a bookstore. Someone noticed his suspicious activity and he was arrested.
T3.com visited the www.fuckedgaijin.com messageboards, where one members stated:
"Giving a country like Japan a small, easily concealable video camera is like giving a 5 year old fireworks.
"It should have become clear by now that unreasonable proportion of Japanese men can't control themselves from doing perverted and voyeristic acts and that putting out such devices in Japan is like add fuel to the fire."
The man, a resident of Kobe, Japan, hid the device in his shoe while 'browsing' around in a bookstore. Someone noticed his suspicious activity and he was arrested.
T3.com visited the www.fuckedgaijin.com messageboards, where one members stated:
"Giving a country like Japan a small, easily concealable video camera is like giving a 5 year old fireworks.
"It should have become clear by now that unreasonable proportion of Japanese men can't control themselves from doing perverted and voyeristic acts and that putting out such devices in Japan is like add fuel to the fire."
2010/08/31
Charisma Man, 1998-2002: The Complete Collection
Image by justinrebrown via Flickr
Charisma Man first appeared in the February 1998 issue of the 'The Alien' magazine, and immediately catapulted into legendary-status among readers in Japan's expat/Gaijin world. The creator of the strip, Larry Rodney, teamed up with a graphic designer friend, Glen Schroeder, both from Canada, to produce the first year of outstanding strips. The strips continued through 2002 with Neil Garscadden doing the writing and Wayne Wilson providing the art work. At the end of 2002, a book containing all the original strips was published and quick sales further documented its appeal. 'Charisma Man' has now become common vernacular among ex-pats in Japan and other countries.
Dont forget to share this post ^_^
Image by justinrebrown via Flickr Charisma Man first appeared in the February 1998 issue of the 'The Alien' magazine, and immediately catapulted into legendary-status among readers in Japan's expat/Gaijin world. The creator of the strip, Larry Rodney, teamed up with a graphic designer friend, Glen Schroeder, both from Canada, to produce the first year of outstanding strips. The strips continued through 2002 with Neil Garscadden doing the writing and Wayne Wilson providing the art work. At the end of 2002, a book containing all the original strips was published and quick sales further documented its appeal. 'Charisma Man' has now become common vernacular among ex-pats in Japan and other countries.
2010/07/30
Image by justindoub via Flickr"Hikikomori" is a social condition prevalent in Japan (some say only in Japan.), where young people, unable to cope with social and academic pressures, shut themselves in their rooms for months, even years on end.
Yasuo Yamamoto hasn't emerged in almost a year. Yet even as his condition worsens, someone still cares for him...
Hikikomori translates loosely as one who shuts himself away and becomes socially withdrawn. These men - 80% of hikikomori are males - cannot be diagnosed as schizophrenics or mental defectives. They are not depressives or psychotics; nor are they classic agraphobics, who fear public spaces but welcome friends into their homes. When psychiatrist evaluate these hikikomori using the diagnostic and statistical manual, or DSM IV, the standard guide used in the west to diagnose mental disorders, their symptoms cannot be attributed to any known psychiatric ailment. Instead, Japanese psychiatists say that hikikomori is a social disorder, only recently observed, that cannot be found within other cultures. (Shutting out the sun Michael Zielenziger)
2010/07/22
Image via WikipediaSee more at YOUTUBE
2010/07/14
Bandai has done it again, and we’re slowly learning how many enjoyable small tasks there are that we want to do forever on a little toy. Popping Bubble Wrap…pinching out soybeans…now we’re opening packages?
The Mugen (infinite) series of toys from Bandai Asovision has now brought us the Mugen PeriPeri, a keychain toy that aims to replicate the pleasure of opening a package for the first time. Snacks, boxes, and other tear-open packages tend to reveal good things, so perhaps experiencing this sensation boosts endorphins and sends us into pleasure mode.
Now that we’re over the novelty of these toys (not that they aren’t fun, mind you), wh
at does it say about Japan? Foreign press would likely spin these toys as “weird, wacky Japan” items that show how crazy Japanese people love to pop bubble wrap and open boxes so much that they want to carry them around.
For us, these toys have much simpler and innocent secrets to success. Clearly, the Mugen PuchiPuchi bubblewrap simulator was a creative stroke of genius, but what pushed it into critical mass was the power of the internet, bringing 30,000 visitors to the product page on the first day and catapulting it into the press without needing a massive ad campaign. This is highly unusual in Japan, but is a boon for manufacturers in a world of declining ad budgets.
Either way, our next product suggestion would be for the Mugen Apple, a toy that allows you to recreate the feeling of opening Apple products forever. We might even stand in line for it!
Original Article click here
Dont forget to share this post ^_^
The Mugen (infinite) series of toys from Bandai Asovision has now brought us the Mugen PeriPeri, a keychain toy that aims to replicate the pleasure of opening a package for the first time. Snacks, boxes, and other tear-open packages tend to reveal good things, so perhaps experiencing this sensation boosts endorphins and sends us into pleasure mode.
Now that we’re over the novelty of these toys (not that they aren’t fun, mind you), wh
at does it say about Japan? Foreign press would likely spin these toys as “weird, wacky Japan” items that show how crazy Japanese people love to pop bubble wrap and open boxes so much that they want to carry them around.
For us, these toys have much simpler and innocent secrets to success. Clearly, the Mugen PuchiPuchi bubblewrap simulator was a creative stroke of genius, but what pushed it into critical mass was the power of the internet, bringing 30,000 visitors to the product page on the first day and catapulting it into the press without needing a massive ad campaign. This is highly unusual in Japan, but is a boon for manufacturers in a world of declining ad budgets.
Either way, our next product suggestion would be for the Mugen Apple, a toy that allows you to recreate the feeling of opening Apple products forever. We might even stand in line for it!
Original Article click here
2010/02/04
Why are we so amazed? Most of the world has far more advanced tastebuds than us. however if Kitkat were going to take it all the way they also need to invest in savoury flavours such as Ramen, goyza and the like.
Candied sweet potato Kit-Kat:
Apple vinegar Kit-Kat with white chocolate:
Sweet corn Kit-Kat:
Watermelon and salt Kit-Kat:
Potato Kit-Kat:
Salt & caramel Kit-Kat:
Muscat Of Alexandria Grapes Kit-Kat:
Kit-Kat mini with kinako (toasted soy flour):
Pumpkin Kit-Kat:
Green tea Kit-Kat:
Espresso Kit-Kat with white chocolate:
Apple Kit-Kat:
Red beak soup flavored Kit-Kat:
Caramel macchiato Kit-Kat:
Pineapple Kit-Kat:
Chestnut Kit-Kat:
Blood orange Kit-kat
Milk and red bean filling with green tea coating:
Candied sweet potato Kit-Kat:
Apple vinegar Kit-Kat with white chocolate:
Sweet corn Kit-Kat:
Watermelon and salt Kit-Kat:
Potato Kit-Kat:
Salt & caramel Kit-Kat:
Muscat Of Alexandria Grapes Kit-Kat:
Kit-Kat mini with kinako (toasted soy flour):
Pumpkin Kit-Kat:
Green tea Kit-Kat:
Espresso Kit-Kat with white chocolate:
Apple Kit-Kat:
Red beak soup flavored Kit-Kat:
Caramel macchiato Kit-Kat:
Pineapple Kit-Kat:
Chestnut Kit-Kat:
Blood orange Kit-kat
Milk and red bean filling with green tea coating:
2010/01/30
Glee is about to make its debut in Japan and just like Americans, the Japanese make promos in anticipation of such events. But Americans don't make promos like this. Featuring two adorably fat sumo wrestling tweens, retired sumo great Akebono and a cast of fly girls, this promo should result in Super Bowl level ratings. As Akebono would say, "So fun, so Fox!"
2010/01/29
In Japanese, O is a prefix denoting respect, and bakemono literally means a changed thing - something perverted and altered and moved beyond its natural state - a monster.
To most Western eyes, traditional Japan is a serene veneer of stoic samurai, porcelain-skinned geisha, Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms. It seems like the last place you'd look for things bizarre, grotesque, and morbid. And yet the Japanese archipelago is home to as rich a tradition of goblins, ghouls, and monsters as you'll find anywhere on Earth. Imported from the mainland along with Buddhism or Chinese culture, or springing from fertile local imaginations and ancient animistic traditions, this impressive array of animated objects, transformed animals, ogres, demons, and human freaks is known collectively known as yōkai (yoh-kye), or bakemono (bah-keh-mo-no). They feature in countless folktales, prints, and paintings, often rendered with as much humor as horror, a troupe of beasts as charming as they are terrifying.
Sekien Toriyama was the first to catalogue Japan's vast bestiary, and in 1776 published a hefty illustrated tome called the "Hyakki Yakō", or "Hundred Demon Night Parade." Many since him have attempted to follow in his footsteps, the most notable among these being cartoonist Shigeru Mizuki, who has written and lavishly illustrated numerous books on the subject, all while keeping the yōkai alive in the public's imagination through his strange, enchanting comic stories.
In English-speaking nations, Japan's popular culture has of late enjoyed immense popularity in the form of animation, comic books, and video games, and Godzilla and his fellow giant rubber-suit monsters have always had a cult following. But the kaijū's older cousins, the yōkai, remain largely a footnote and a curiosity in the West. Occasionally they sneak over in the form of a low-budget monster movie, or show up altered, toned-down, or romanticized into unrecognizability in an imported cartoon popular with teens. Yet much of the fertile, monstrous imagination contained in old Japanese folklore and art has never been collected, translated, and presented to the English-speaking world.
Educational tools
NihongoUp
$4.99
A Japanese educational game and reviewing tool that will help you learn hiragana & katakana, improve your typing speed, review JLPT kanji, vocabulary & grammar in context. NihongoUp is a Serious Games Showcase & Challenge winner.
Anki
FREE
A spaced repetition system (SRS). It helps you remember things by intelligently scheduling flashcards, so that you can learn a lot of information with a minimum amount of effort. There are many user created decks and new decks can be easilly created in the program. One can also create an online account and synchronize decks between different computers.
Mnemosyne
FREE
A spaced repetition system (SRS) with three-sided cards support and a clean, yet highly customizable user interface.
Human Japanese
$18.95
A Japanese language learning software that starts at square one and presents the Japanese language in a warm, engaging tone. The program consists of a very well written basic Japanese textbook, 1800 audio recordings of vocabulary words and example sentences, and several interesting mini games and articles on Japanese culture. A boxed version for $24.95 + shipping is also available.
zkanji
FREE
zkanji is a feature rich Japanese language study suite and dictionary for Windows. It has several kanji lookup methods, optional example sentences for many Japanese words, vocabulary printing and more.
iKana
$18.00
If you are studying Japanese then you need iKanji - the most comprehensive kanji study tool available on the Mac, designed with all the care and attention you expect.
iKanji
$30.00
Are you studying Japanese and looking to take the pain out of learning Hiragana and Katakana? iKana is the fun and easy way to learn these phonetic alphabets with tools to help you memorise, read and write both.
Reference
Tagaini Jisho
FREE
A free, open-source Japanese↔English dictionary and kanji lookup tool. It allows you to quickly search for entries and mark those that you wish to study, along with tags and personal notes. It also let you train entries you are studying and follows your progression in remembering them. JMDICT & KANJIDIC2 based (approximately 145,000 vocabulary and 13000 kanji entries).
A Japanese↔English dictionary multi-radical and stroke count search, phonetic dictionary, flashcards, and kanji study groups synchronizable with the Windows Mobile version of JISHOP. The UI looks outdated but it is very functional considering the amount of informations for each kanji and the number of search options. Jishop based (1006 kanji in the free Concise, 1945 kanji in the $19.95 Plus and 4500 kanji in the $39.95 Advanced version).
Babylon
$118.00
Babylon is a multilingual dictionary and translation tool. A simple Japanese↔English dictionary is bundled with the program and many free user created Japanese dictionaries can be downloaded from the Babylon website. There are also two very good premium dictionaries described below.
A Japanese↔English premium dictionary for Babylon with extremely detailed translations, nuances between different options, example sentences and grammatical do's and dont's. Genius based (over 250,000 Genius Unabridged E→J, over 190,000 Genius Unabridged J→E and over 69,000 Genius J↔E entries).
A premium dictionary for Babylon with information regarding usage of honorific words, typical misusages, Kanji conjugations, nuances between the different words and expressions, new Katakana words and grammatical do's and don'ts.
A Japanese↔English, German, French, Russian dictionary with Mac OS X integration, multilingual user interface, wildcard search and romaji support. JMDICT based (approximately 100,000 J↔E, 80,000 J↔G, 15,000 J↔F and 5,000 J↔R entries).
2010/01/28
RAT
Luck & Money
You'll be laying down some new ground rules in 2010 so that finances and fun can hold hands a little more. Sure, you'll need to work hard for your money or do some serious negotiations, but you won't be in the same dark hole you've been in. New study or training could be part of the plan to increase your income, with some of you rewarded with a career breakthrough by October.
Love
You cool Rats lose your inhibitions in February/March, reviving hot-blooded passion with your partner or getting frisky with a new member of your rat pack. This marks the end of a celibate cycle for many of you; so along with the celebrations coming up, expect to be feeling well loved-up throughout the year. A new addition to the family is scheduled for May/June.
The Year Ahead
You get the vote of confidence in 2010, Rats! With your mind-set doing a 180, optimism and confidence obliterate the poisonous fallout of past negativity and a bad attitude. Many of you consider changing digs or reinventing your appearance in the August/September period. This is in line with the new position, family fluctuations and/or persona you adopt.
oxOX
Luck & Money
This is the year when people are fully prepared to invest in your ideas and talents. So make an effort to pull yourself out of go-slow mode and benefit from the opportunities that present themselves, particularly around August and November. Go for gold in a competition or sporting event around March, as 'winner' is written all over your or a loved one's face!
Love
You've been uncharacteristically moody recently, and largely because you have been wrestling with those inner demons. Your self-imposed emotional exile is over in April, when you iron out wrinkles with relatives or friends and feel on top of your game again. May and September are headlined for romance and good times. Clearly, the frustration with someone has been sexual tension all along.
The Year Ahead
Your mind, body and soul start to itch for change in 2010. Instead of trudging along doing the same awkward routine and ignoring that little voice inside you screaming 'boring', you'll be opening yourself up to exciting new activities and interesting new people. A change in your spiritual direction or involvement in a special group is highlighted in the first quarter of the year.
TIGERTIGER
Luck & Money
It's your year to be on top, so expect to stare success right in the Tiger eye. You'll show your prowess by negotiating your way out of tricky financial traps you've plummeted into. Mid-year indicates opportunities for a complete change of direction. However, it might be wise to hedge your bets until you have a more secure footing later in the year.
Love
Before you can give any relationships a chance, first you must be prepared to trust. Look at those cat fights and past hurts as part of your journey, then give someone the chance to love the real you in May or November. And this time it will be on your terms. A surprise family announcement or home offer is highlighted for August or December.
The Year Ahead
It's purely those insecurities preventing you from heading down your true path. Your instincts are on high-beam, so don't let the loaded advice of others steer you in the wrong direction. Through yesterday's obstacles, you are by far a wiser person, and getting your teeth into further study or retraining will add to your credentials. Your spirit is fired up, so on your mark to launch yourself into a new chapter.
rabbitRABBIT
Luck & Money
You'll have the luxury of merging your personal life with something business oriented during March or July. This could see you doing something from home or being head-down/tail-up with a friend. You adopt the right attitude to meet the hefty schedules and financial challenges in the latter part of 2010, as you settle those debts, stand your ground with money pressures and tie up loose ends.
Love
Be ready to both reclaim your personal power and expose your vulnerabilities in your private life. Your regained confidence is mirrored in the healthy connections you make in February or October. You'll have energy to burn in a new or current relationship, or a rekindled affair, in December. Don't get all fluffed-up when a family member moves to the neighbourhood or shows up unannounced in July. Is a truce possibly in order?
The Year Ahead
There will be unlimited potential for personal growth and creativity throughout 2010. It might pay to stop hopping from one thing to another if your plan is to eventually have firmer foundations to burrow into. You'll also be encouraging younger relatives or friends to achieve their full potential. As a result, your generosity will be rewarded in valuable ways.
dragonDRAGON
Luck & Money
You're already one step ahead of the rest with that financial plan and those group shares which promise to zoom up the market charts in February or August. Stay on your game in April and September, so that one unscrupulous neighbour or work mate doesn't steal your thunder. Life is smokin' hot in August or November when you receive a good-news email or fabulous results.
Love
Has the flame fizzled out with someone, or are you working on ways to get the fire burning with a newcomer? Do what you can in the March to June period in order to re-ignite the passion or introduce some romance into the equation. Platonic friendships bloom in the July/August period, and don't miss the opportunity to bond with a new family member.
The Year Ahead
Occasionally, even the Dragon needs a helping hand. And in 2010, when you re-examine areas of your life that continue to serve you well and those that need to be relinquished, you'll lean on loved ones a little. You could meet someone who becomes your personal guru or join an enlightened group. It will inspire you to make ambitious inner shifts that fire up your everyday existence.
snakeSNAKE
Luck & Money
Things have been a little unstable for you on the money front, but 2010 promises to open new doors that will boost your bank balance and put some tastier food on the table. Part of the plan could be sliding into a new job or learning additional skills between March and November. Keep your workload realistic, because you don't want to wear yourself out before the reunion or anniversary in September.
Love
With your innate charm peaking in 2010, go ahead and flaunt your assets, as people will stand up and take notice! Take a chance on love in April and July, when the love of your life features strongly and you put further commitment in place. Your support is appreciated in October, as you rally to a family member's side and share a wonderful outcome.
The Year Ahead
This year you might put down roots, move interstate or create your special love nest. Your days of feeling lost and travelling a solo path are ending, as you begin a more emotionally fulfilling time in your life. Even though your path could contain some obstacles, if you have faith in your abilities and trust in your plans, you could reach the heights you've envisioned.
horseHORSE
Luck & Money
You kick-start the year with a burst of determination to help you go the extra mile with a financial issue that has been hanging at the post. Your resources have been stretched to the limit, but by taking up the challenges and making the most of the opportunities that present themselves from March through to October, you are more comfortable when you reach 2010's finish line.
Love
Expect a few surprises when you become attracted to someone who you sense is out of your league or comes from the wrong side of the tracks. You are faced with some crucial decisions regarding family and/or home around July or December. You'll need to avoid sitting on the fence, but it's important you aren't swayed by someone's temper tantrums or crocodile tears.
The Year Ahead
This year finds you giving your belief systems a total facelift. Suddenly your current way of thinking holds little conviction, and you're ready to try some new life concepts and assert fresh aspects of your personality. You set new ground rules in your personal life, build healthier boundaries and race towards a more satisfying domestic and family life. Time to retrain your mind and create more serenity for yourself.
GOATGOAT
Luck & Money
You could do something vastly different in 2010 and, in the process, may alter your present values. You are in good hands concerning financial advice and shouldn't have a problem digesting juicy challenges in the March to July period. Before your burst of extreme luck runs out, throw some numbers together for the big draw in April or September.
Love
Be prepared to air your feelings during the May to August period. Although they may not be what certain loved ones want to hear, they are much better out than in. It's maintenance time for a special relationship in June, and the best thing you can do is swallow your pride, bite the
bullet and come clean. Rings and things are lovingly exchanged in September or November.
The Year Ahead
Ready to lose your shyness and take a leap into the public eye? It could be linked to the media, cyberspace or the big outdoors. When opposing opinions arise, don't alienate others by locking horns and refusing to budge. Take it as an opportunity to broaden your landscapes and understand how the other half ticks. Loved ones are quick to press your buttons, but this year's big lesson is learning how not to react.
monkeyMONKEY
Luck & Money
The pace picks up on your finance front, with great links, gigs or deals featuring. Your powers of resilience passed last year's rigorous test, and although more work won't mean squeals of glee, the extra dollars will be worth the sweat. A small monetary investment you'd given up on vigorously starts multiplying in March and September. Local travel and that cheeky outfit are paid for.
Love
Your libido booms in March, perfectly timed to coincide with the amorous adventure planned with your partner or hot new arrival. It's the year to create stronger bonds with family and friends, and to connect with someone with a vastly different background. Some of you get hitched in June, while others team with an out-of-towner who swings by in May or October.
The Year Ahead
Your days of climbing walls and jumping hurdles are done. Even though your sense of adventure will be at an all-time high, so will your commitment to stay productive and reach goals. Relax in the knowledge that you have the talent and attitude to win people over and receive kudos. An increase in confidence and cash will be on par with the extreme love fest happening for you later this year.
roosterROOSTER
Luck & Money
Finally, a year when there's less to lose than there is to gain. No more chickenfeed for you – 2010 is rich with fresh new input, especially in May and August. And you won't just peck at the opportunities; you'll be gobbling them up. A lucky draw makes a younger person smile in March; and you'll berate yourself if you don't stand by your team in June.
Love
You could feel awkward with the strong emotions stirring within when you eyeball a love interest for the first time or randomly hook up with someone in February or August. The good news is that your period of solitude or turmoil is coming to an end, and in its place is the chance for you to love, laugh and fully experience life again.
The Year Ahead
It's been a tough time recently, and even though you might find it difficult to forgive, by doing so you could immediately free your spirit and reconnect with your inner nurturer. Then you need to primp your feathers and set out to impress the people who could be your perch to further success and happiness. If you focus on the important stuff, this is your year to shine.
dogDOG
Luck & Money
Employers, financial institutions and/or family help you achieve your goals in 2010. A perfectly timed windfall or pay rise is locked in for April or November. You get on the case of a redundancy settlement, legal issue or ex-partner's obligations mid-year. It's good news for a health problem in July/August. Success from study or a job interview is highlighted in October.
Love
Relationships could surprise you during 2010, as they spring up where you least expect or change in radical ways. This is not a year when the boredom bug will bite, but you'll need to adapt to some pivotal developments in August. Despite the stops and starts, you'll feel more loved up than you have for years. You may need to put boundaries up with one persistent person.
The Year Ahead
If you do one thing in 2010, look at unexpected obstacles as stepping stones to further success. You'll be focussed on making your mark on inspirational people, but chew things over carefully before sticking your paw print on anything. Interested in lapping up relevant information and learning new tricks that leads you down a brand-new path? It'll put you in a much happier space.
pigPIG
Luck & Money
Outstanding money matters are put to rest between February and May. The loosening of purse strings puts you in a position to treat yourself. You explore uncharted territory around June/July and discover your true money-making potential. How much is that family heirloom or old piece of furniture worth in November? Possibly a small fortune.
Love
You start to redefine certain relationships in 2010, with it being game over for one off-and-on connection in March or August. A casual fling may remove you from your cosy pen In May or September, but don't spoil the romantic mood by becoming too self-absorbed or reverting back to some unappealing personal habits. A child or younger person takes a risk in November and wins the medal.
The Year Ahead
The uncertainty and sudden upheavals are finally off your plate in 2010, and you're primed to put the pieces of your life back together again. You show how thick-skinned you are when you come through a winner despite past adversities. You're on the brink of a fabulous personal adventure as the new year starts to cook. Your loved ones have missed your bright personality. Welcome back, Ms Piggy!
Luck & Money
You'll be laying down some new ground rules in 2010 so that finances and fun can hold hands a little more. Sure, you'll need to work hard for your money or do some serious negotiations, but you won't be in the same dark hole you've been in. New study or training could be part of the plan to increase your income, with some of you rewarded with a career breakthrough by October.
Love
You cool Rats lose your inhibitions in February/March, reviving hot-blooded passion with your partner or getting frisky with a new member of your rat pack. This marks the end of a celibate cycle for many of you; so along with the celebrations coming up, expect to be feeling well loved-up throughout the year. A new addition to the family is scheduled for May/June.
The Year Ahead
You get the vote of confidence in 2010, Rats! With your mind-set doing a 180, optimism and confidence obliterate the poisonous fallout of past negativity and a bad attitude. Many of you consider changing digs or reinventing your appearance in the August/September period. This is in line with the new position, family fluctuations and/or persona you adopt.
oxOX
Luck & Money
This is the year when people are fully prepared to invest in your ideas and talents. So make an effort to pull yourself out of go-slow mode and benefit from the opportunities that present themselves, particularly around August and November. Go for gold in a competition or sporting event around March, as 'winner' is written all over your or a loved one's face!
Love
You've been uncharacteristically moody recently, and largely because you have been wrestling with those inner demons. Your self-imposed emotional exile is over in April, when you iron out wrinkles with relatives or friends and feel on top of your game again. May and September are headlined for romance and good times. Clearly, the frustration with someone has been sexual tension all along.
The Year Ahead
Your mind, body and soul start to itch for change in 2010. Instead of trudging along doing the same awkward routine and ignoring that little voice inside you screaming 'boring', you'll be opening yourself up to exciting new activities and interesting new people. A change in your spiritual direction or involvement in a special group is highlighted in the first quarter of the year.
TIGERTIGER
Luck & Money
It's your year to be on top, so expect to stare success right in the Tiger eye. You'll show your prowess by negotiating your way out of tricky financial traps you've plummeted into. Mid-year indicates opportunities for a complete change of direction. However, it might be wise to hedge your bets until you have a more secure footing later in the year.
Love
Before you can give any relationships a chance, first you must be prepared to trust. Look at those cat fights and past hurts as part of your journey, then give someone the chance to love the real you in May or November. And this time it will be on your terms. A surprise family announcement or home offer is highlighted for August or December.
The Year Ahead
It's purely those insecurities preventing you from heading down your true path. Your instincts are on high-beam, so don't let the loaded advice of others steer you in the wrong direction. Through yesterday's obstacles, you are by far a wiser person, and getting your teeth into further study or retraining will add to your credentials. Your spirit is fired up, so on your mark to launch yourself into a new chapter.
rabbitRABBIT
Luck & Money
You'll have the luxury of merging your personal life with something business oriented during March or July. This could see you doing something from home or being head-down/tail-up with a friend. You adopt the right attitude to meet the hefty schedules and financial challenges in the latter part of 2010, as you settle those debts, stand your ground with money pressures and tie up loose ends.
Love
Be ready to both reclaim your personal power and expose your vulnerabilities in your private life. Your regained confidence is mirrored in the healthy connections you make in February or October. You'll have energy to burn in a new or current relationship, or a rekindled affair, in December. Don't get all fluffed-up when a family member moves to the neighbourhood or shows up unannounced in July. Is a truce possibly in order?
The Year Ahead
There will be unlimited potential for personal growth and creativity throughout 2010. It might pay to stop hopping from one thing to another if your plan is to eventually have firmer foundations to burrow into. You'll also be encouraging younger relatives or friends to achieve their full potential. As a result, your generosity will be rewarded in valuable ways.
dragonDRAGON
Luck & Money
You're already one step ahead of the rest with that financial plan and those group shares which promise to zoom up the market charts in February or August. Stay on your game in April and September, so that one unscrupulous neighbour or work mate doesn't steal your thunder. Life is smokin' hot in August or November when you receive a good-news email or fabulous results.
Love
Has the flame fizzled out with someone, or are you working on ways to get the fire burning with a newcomer? Do what you can in the March to June period in order to re-ignite the passion or introduce some romance into the equation. Platonic friendships bloom in the July/August period, and don't miss the opportunity to bond with a new family member.
The Year Ahead
Occasionally, even the Dragon needs a helping hand. And in 2010, when you re-examine areas of your life that continue to serve you well and those that need to be relinquished, you'll lean on loved ones a little. You could meet someone who becomes your personal guru or join an enlightened group. It will inspire you to make ambitious inner shifts that fire up your everyday existence.
snakeSNAKE
Luck & Money
Things have been a little unstable for you on the money front, but 2010 promises to open new doors that will boost your bank balance and put some tastier food on the table. Part of the plan could be sliding into a new job or learning additional skills between March and November. Keep your workload realistic, because you don't want to wear yourself out before the reunion or anniversary in September.
Love
With your innate charm peaking in 2010, go ahead and flaunt your assets, as people will stand up and take notice! Take a chance on love in April and July, when the love of your life features strongly and you put further commitment in place. Your support is appreciated in October, as you rally to a family member's side and share a wonderful outcome.
The Year Ahead
This year you might put down roots, move interstate or create your special love nest. Your days of feeling lost and travelling a solo path are ending, as you begin a more emotionally fulfilling time in your life. Even though your path could contain some obstacles, if you have faith in your abilities and trust in your plans, you could reach the heights you've envisioned.
horseHORSE
Luck & Money
You kick-start the year with a burst of determination to help you go the extra mile with a financial issue that has been hanging at the post. Your resources have been stretched to the limit, but by taking up the challenges and making the most of the opportunities that present themselves from March through to October, you are more comfortable when you reach 2010's finish line.
Love
Expect a few surprises when you become attracted to someone who you sense is out of your league or comes from the wrong side of the tracks. You are faced with some crucial decisions regarding family and/or home around July or December. You'll need to avoid sitting on the fence, but it's important you aren't swayed by someone's temper tantrums or crocodile tears.
The Year Ahead
This year finds you giving your belief systems a total facelift. Suddenly your current way of thinking holds little conviction, and you're ready to try some new life concepts and assert fresh aspects of your personality. You set new ground rules in your personal life, build healthier boundaries and race towards a more satisfying domestic and family life. Time to retrain your mind and create more serenity for yourself.
GOATGOAT
Luck & Money
You could do something vastly different in 2010 and, in the process, may alter your present values. You are in good hands concerning financial advice and shouldn't have a problem digesting juicy challenges in the March to July period. Before your burst of extreme luck runs out, throw some numbers together for the big draw in April or September.
Love
Be prepared to air your feelings during the May to August period. Although they may not be what certain loved ones want to hear, they are much better out than in. It's maintenance time for a special relationship in June, and the best thing you can do is swallow your pride, bite the
bullet and come clean. Rings and things are lovingly exchanged in September or November.
The Year Ahead
Ready to lose your shyness and take a leap into the public eye? It could be linked to the media, cyberspace or the big outdoors. When opposing opinions arise, don't alienate others by locking horns and refusing to budge. Take it as an opportunity to broaden your landscapes and understand how the other half ticks. Loved ones are quick to press your buttons, but this year's big lesson is learning how not to react.
monkeyMONKEY
Luck & Money
The pace picks up on your finance front, with great links, gigs or deals featuring. Your powers of resilience passed last year's rigorous test, and although more work won't mean squeals of glee, the extra dollars will be worth the sweat. A small monetary investment you'd given up on vigorously starts multiplying in March and September. Local travel and that cheeky outfit are paid for.
Love
Your libido booms in March, perfectly timed to coincide with the amorous adventure planned with your partner or hot new arrival. It's the year to create stronger bonds with family and friends, and to connect with someone with a vastly different background. Some of you get hitched in June, while others team with an out-of-towner who swings by in May or October.
The Year Ahead
Your days of climbing walls and jumping hurdles are done. Even though your sense of adventure will be at an all-time high, so will your commitment to stay productive and reach goals. Relax in the knowledge that you have the talent and attitude to win people over and receive kudos. An increase in confidence and cash will be on par with the extreme love fest happening for you later this year.
roosterROOSTER
Luck & Money
Finally, a year when there's less to lose than there is to gain. No more chickenfeed for you – 2010 is rich with fresh new input, especially in May and August. And you won't just peck at the opportunities; you'll be gobbling them up. A lucky draw makes a younger person smile in March; and you'll berate yourself if you don't stand by your team in June.
Love
You could feel awkward with the strong emotions stirring within when you eyeball a love interest for the first time or randomly hook up with someone in February or August. The good news is that your period of solitude or turmoil is coming to an end, and in its place is the chance for you to love, laugh and fully experience life again.
The Year Ahead
It's been a tough time recently, and even though you might find it difficult to forgive, by doing so you could immediately free your spirit and reconnect with your inner nurturer. Then you need to primp your feathers and set out to impress the people who could be your perch to further success and happiness. If you focus on the important stuff, this is your year to shine.
dogDOG
Luck & Money
Employers, financial institutions and/or family help you achieve your goals in 2010. A perfectly timed windfall or pay rise is locked in for April or November. You get on the case of a redundancy settlement, legal issue or ex-partner's obligations mid-year. It's good news for a health problem in July/August. Success from study or a job interview is highlighted in October.
Love
Relationships could surprise you during 2010, as they spring up where you least expect or change in radical ways. This is not a year when the boredom bug will bite, but you'll need to adapt to some pivotal developments in August. Despite the stops and starts, you'll feel more loved up than you have for years. You may need to put boundaries up with one persistent person.
The Year Ahead
If you do one thing in 2010, look at unexpected obstacles as stepping stones to further success. You'll be focussed on making your mark on inspirational people, but chew things over carefully before sticking your paw print on anything. Interested in lapping up relevant information and learning new tricks that leads you down a brand-new path? It'll put you in a much happier space.
pigPIG
Luck & Money
Outstanding money matters are put to rest between February and May. The loosening of purse strings puts you in a position to treat yourself. You explore uncharted territory around June/July and discover your true money-making potential. How much is that family heirloom or old piece of furniture worth in November? Possibly a small fortune.
Love
You start to redefine certain relationships in 2010, with it being game over for one off-and-on connection in March or August. A casual fling may remove you from your cosy pen In May or September, but don't spoil the romantic mood by becoming too self-absorbed or reverting back to some unappealing personal habits. A child or younger person takes a risk in November and wins the medal.
The Year Ahead
The uncertainty and sudden upheavals are finally off your plate in 2010, and you're primed to put the pieces of your life back together again. You show how thick-skinned you are when you come through a winner despite past adversities. You're on the brink of a fabulous personal adventure as the new year starts to cook. Your loved ones have missed your bright personality. Welcome back, Ms Piggy!
2010/01/26
If you are not sure what it is, Comiket is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, gathering of comic fans in the world – you can see just how big it is in the video below.
Dōjinshi (同人誌) are self-published comic works created by Japanese fans of manga and novels and are the major attraction for the 500,000 people who visit the three-day event. As dōjinshi works are amateur creations made by fans, each piece is extremely rare and caters specifically for unique tastes.
The other big draw is the cosplay, as it’s also one of the biggest events in the year to see cosplayers of all varieties on show. While GaijinPot filmed the Cosplay at Comiket we were given an introduction to the event by one of the helpful guys working the show floor.
Comiket runs twice a year, for three days at a time – Summer Comiket is in August and the Winter Event (which GaijinPot attended) is in December.
For more on Comiket, Wikipedia has pretty comprehensive article and you can check the official site on how to go yourself here. Would you be interested in cosplaying at the next one?
Dōjinshi (同人誌) are self-published comic works created by Japanese fans of manga and novels and are the major attraction for the 500,000 people who visit the three-day event. As dōjinshi works are amateur creations made by fans, each piece is extremely rare and caters specifically for unique tastes.
The other big draw is the cosplay, as it’s also one of the biggest events in the year to see cosplayers of all varieties on show. While GaijinPot filmed the Cosplay at Comiket we were given an introduction to the event by one of the helpful guys working the show floor.
Comiket from GaijinPot on Vimeo.
Comiket runs twice a year, for three days at a time – Summer Comiket is in August and the Winter Event (which GaijinPot attended) is in December.
For more on Comiket, Wikipedia has pretty comprehensive article and you can check the official site on how to go yourself here. Would you be interested in cosplaying at the next one?
This is not our article but its good so here it is.
Written by Uleshka
Here are our top 10 choises of advertisement in Tokyo’s trains or stations
1. Create your own stage
Picking a seriously busy station such as Shibuya should give you proper exposure for a start. Here, we discovered a very decorative ad by Meisei University that takes up the entire wall space in Shibuya. It functions as a pretty backdrop for everyone waiting on the platform.
In case all wall space is already taken, try placing your ad as a mega sticker on the ground. That adds some nice color to the gray concrete as well.
We have covered the seriously impressive iPod nano campaign on PingMag a while ago. Those “goodies on posters” are always in great demand. Here is a little picture story of a recent Canon ad inside Shibuya station (between Toyoko and JR Yamanote line - a good catch), which offered small packets mounted on a poster.
worker revealing the Canon campaign at around 10.30am
Someone must have been talking… Nikon had a big and beautiful ad right next to the Canon ad
after the official press shots were taken, people were allowed to step closer - and they did!
sweet grandpa grabbing one pack of every kind - like most people
4. Product Sculptures
Create your own product sculpture! I had a good laugh when finding all those over-over-sized Ucon-Tea bottles in Shinjuku decorating the pillars. Those were not to be missed by anyone!
If all places seem taken, look again!
6. Info-ride
A very elegant and often refreshing solution is to decorate the moving handrails of escalators. Aap! offer some nice solutions for this alternative display. (Takes about 1 hour to install!)
handrails installed in Nogizaka with little info or advertising units about shops, restaurants and information about the area Photo © Aap!
scan the QR code with your phone and get map and more information about a place of interest Photo © Aap!7. Trains!
Train Jacking (buying the entire advertisement space inside a whole train for a certain period) or Train Wrapping (covering the entire outside of a train) are extremly popular in Tokyo. If you ever found yourself in one of these trains for a few stops only, you will know why people are willing to pay so much at once. An entire train telling you the same thing is impossible not to notice. There are a lot of funky ones around, here we show a rather minimal and “calm” train from Ikea. The first thing I noticed when stepping on board was, that the wagon felt so unusually peaceful….
it felt a bit like flipping through the Ikea cataloge, which - I suppose - was their intention
other wagons had colorful Ikea patterns
Since everyone spends so much time in trains, little surprises are always welcome! Adding some “real-factor” to flat posters always seems to do the trick! Here is a small selection.
Prigles ad inside a train with two pringles flying into a bowl of soup
the poster next to that one with paired up ‘real’ Pringles on their way to the soup bowl
Not only posters “get real”. Handles inside trains can also a popular and fun medium to create some attention. Here is our favorite one: the neck tie promising you more money… well! It is an ad for a loan company…
Last the creme de la creme of entertaining advertisement to find in trains are not exactly inside the trains, but inside the tunnels. When desperately trying to come up with more advertising space since everything else is full already, someone came up with an installation that works similar to a flip-book: a series of still images is the base for a short movies and it is you who moves, in this case - the train. Installed on the sides of a tunnel, the movement of the train and the perfectly timed highlighting of each still frame after another creates an up to 7 second movie viewed by looking out of the window. A little demo shows how it works best.
single frames are installed inside a tunnel… © Aap!
… lining up next to each other.© Aap!
when driving by, a sensor measures the speed of the train and lights up each frame accordingly © Aap!
here a still of a tunnel movie for Adidas viewed from within the train © Aap!Although some articles claimed years ago, that this technology would be the new hit and boom in all tunnels, I never saw one myself… I very much like the idea, though! Maybe too much hustle to install it afterall?
Written by Uleshka
Here are our top 10 choises of advertisement in Tokyo’s trains or stations
1. Create your own stage
Picking a seriously busy station such as Shibuya should give you proper exposure for a start. Here, we discovered a very decorative ad by Meisei University that takes up the entire wall space in Shibuya. It functions as a pretty backdrop for everyone waiting on the platform.
Meisei University billboard covers Shibuya’s Toyoko line all along
2. Mega StickersIn case all wall space is already taken, try placing your ad as a mega sticker on the ground. That adds some nice color to the gray concrete as well.
giant sticker on the ground advertising for the Haruhi DVD release
3. Take-away goodies poster campaignWe have covered the seriously impressive iPod nano campaign on PingMag a while ago. Those “goodies on posters” are always in great demand. Here is a little picture story of a recent Canon ad inside Shibuya station (between Toyoko and JR Yamanote line - a good catch), which offered small packets mounted on a poster.
worker revealing the Canon campaign at around 10.30am
Someone must have been talking… Nikon had a big and beautiful ad right next to the Canon ad
here is a detail of all the little packs mounted on the poster before people started grabbing….
after the official press shots were taken, people were allowed to step closer - and they did!
sweet grandpa grabbing one pack of every kind - like most people
within seconds the missing packets revealed the image underneath
Althought the graphics were quite funky, I must confess that I was pretty disappointed by the contents of this mysterious little black pack: a small brochure about a new range of Canon cameras in an entirely un-matching design. A few more images about this ad and other “take away poster campaigns” on our Flickr page.4. Product Sculptures
Create your own product sculpture! I had a good laugh when finding all those over-over-sized Ucon-Tea bottles in Shinjuku decorating the pillars. Those were not to be missed by anyone!
huge Ucon (Tumeric) Tea bottles inside Shinjuku station which look as if they are holding up the roof
5. Use what’s leftIf all places seem taken, look again!
advertisement on the last free spots of the ticket gates
I just noticed advertising on the ticket gates at some train stations, too. Placed right next to the slots to insert your cards, the ads for TV magazine TV Japan certainly get noticed, even though they look like they could be warning signs as a part of the ticket gates.6. Info-ride
A very elegant and often refreshing solution is to decorate the moving handrails of escalators. Aap! offer some nice solutions for this alternative display. (Takes about 1 hour to install!)
These handrails are simply decorative to give you the idea of what it might look like. Picture in the Lumine Department Store, Tokyo, Photo © Aap!
Aap! installed an interesting handrail ad model inside Nogizaka station in Tokyo: these handrails lists all sorts of brief information about shops, restaurants and attractions around the area. People can easily scan the matching QR-code to receive more information of a certain place of interest on their mobile phone while more information slowly “drives by”.handrails installed in Nogizaka with little info or advertising units about shops, restaurants and information about the area Photo © Aap!
scan the QR code with your phone and get map and more information about a place of interest Photo © Aap!
Train Jacking (buying the entire advertisement space inside a whole train for a certain period) or Train Wrapping (covering the entire outside of a train) are extremly popular in Tokyo. If you ever found yourself in one of these trains for a few stops only, you will know why people are willing to pay so much at once. An entire train telling you the same thing is impossible not to notice. There are a lot of funky ones around, here we show a rather minimal and “calm” train from Ikea. The first thing I noticed when stepping on board was, that the wagon felt so unusually peaceful….
very minimal color on white posters for Ikea turned the entire train into a relaxing zone almost…
it felt a bit like flipping through the Ikea cataloge, which - I suppose - was their intention
other wagons had colorful Ikea patterns
even on the outside they remained minimal: Let’s enjoy color and pattern!
8. It’s real!Since everyone spends so much time in trains, little surprises are always welcome! Adding some “real-factor” to flat posters always seems to do the trick! Here is a small selection.
Prigles ad inside a train with two pringles flying into a bowl of soup
the poster next to that one with paired up ‘real’ Pringles on their way to the soup bowl
Notice the ‘real-component’: a glitter ponpon mounted on a cheerleader poster for Fuji TV’s drama Dandori. Amazing that no-one steals it!
leaves arranged to a quite unusual poster for Green Tea
detail of the plastic autumn leaves hanging from the train ceiling
9. Handle tricksNot only posters “get real”. Handles inside trains can also a popular and fun medium to create some attention. Here is our favorite one: the neck tie promising you more money… well! It is an ad for a loan company…
decorated handle in a subway advertising for a loan company (Photo:Maris Mezulis)
10. Tunnel MoviesLast the creme de la creme of entertaining advertisement to find in trains are not exactly inside the trains, but inside the tunnels. When desperately trying to come up with more advertising space since everything else is full already, someone came up with an installation that works similar to a flip-book: a series of still images is the base for a short movies and it is you who moves, in this case - the train. Installed on the sides of a tunnel, the movement of the train and the perfectly timed highlighting of each still frame after another creates an up to 7 second movie viewed by looking out of the window. A little demo shows how it works best.
single frames are installed inside a tunnel… © Aap!
… lining up next to each other.© Aap!
when driving by, a sensor measures the speed of the train and lights up each frame accordingly © Aap!
here a still of a tunnel movie for Adidas viewed from within the train © Aap!
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