20.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Kotaku's Brian Ashcraft puts out a book on Japanese arcades
Brian Ashcraft, an editor at Kotaku, has a new book out on Japanese game centers.
is pretty awesome stuff, with insider tips for gamers and general interest background info for everyone else.
Even better, there is a huge extract from the book available for free in Metropolis. It is a good survey of the book, so check it out if you are at all interested in the topic.
Tags: Games 0 Comments
16.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Tokyo Asia Music Market was a waste of time
But it was in my backyard, Shinagawa, from October 14 to 17. It was mostly just East Asian artists and some second-string Japanese performers. This was only its fifth year, so maybe it will get better...
Tags: J-Pop 0 Comments
16.10.2008 · by Adrian A. Lozano
Intermixi and Otaku2 Akihabara Tour Fusion!
Aka-san's Intermixi Japan Tours, once again returned to Tokyo for Tokyo Game Show 2008 and Otaku2 was there to guide them through the true Akihabara. Aka-san is the originator and authority on Japanese pop culture tours and being that we at Otaku2 were the pioneers who created Akihabara's first Otaku English guided tour can only add to Intermixi's Japan experience. This group was hardcore!
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12.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Susan J. Napier joins Otaku2 tour!
Susan J. Napier, one of the most noted experts on anime outside Japan, joined the Otaku2 tour in Akihabara on October 12, 2008. She is center left, next to Goku, in this picture. Here's hoping even more people join us in the near future!
Tags: Tour 0 Comments
10.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
'Nodame Cantabile' renaissance
"Nodame Cantabile" started its new season. It is set in Paris, and really ups the old shojo manga feel of European decadence. Perhaps its a bit of a cliche, but its a renaissance!
Speaking of which, two ridiculous Japanese comedians called Bearded Baron (Hige Danshaku) have made a name for themselves by wearing old European dress, toasting each other and saying "Renaissance!" in katakana (Japanese) English. Sure enough, they were featured in the "Nodame" season opener, thankfully only as model figures the room of a French otaku. Apparently those who saw the Bearded Baron and contacted some company got some kind of merchandise.
Tags: Anime 0 Comments
07.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Jesus and Buddha live in Tokyo's suburbs
"Saint Young Men" (Saint Oniisan) is a light-hearted gag manga by Nakamura Hikaru explicating the life of Jesus and Buddha on vacation and sharing a crappy little apartment in Tachikawa outside modern Tokyo. Madness, not miracles, ensues, such as Jesus looking like Johnny Depp and getting hit on by high school girls and Buddha, mistaken for a cosplayer, being asked to pose with tourists in Asakusa. (Buddha prefers to stay indoors and read Tezuka Osamu's "Buddha.")
It is every bit as random, irreverent and inspired as it sounds - it has been selling out in stores all around Tokyo and volume two is in its third or fourth printing. (Fujoshi fangirls especially seem to like the prospect of holy, um, union.) More editions of the buddy comedy that crosses religious boundaries are almost certain, but we'll just have to wait and see if it every makes it off the shores of Japan. I'd like to see what would happen if Depp starred in a live action version!
Tags: Manga 0 Comments
06.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Akihabara murder suspect fit for trial
Kato Tomohiro, 25, the suspect from the random killing of seven and injury of 10 in Akihabara June 8 of this year, has been deemed fit for trial. After three months and an extensive battery of pyschological tests, Kato is said to know what he did and can face the consequences in court.
Kato has admitted that he committed the crime because his "existence was not recognized" working as a part-time laborer in a automotive factory. He was apparently bullied. He turned to online communication, posting complaints about his life some 3,000 times, but was seldom answered.
"This was my revenge against the people on the Net," he said. "They ignored me and caused this crime. I wanted them to feel that guilt. ... I wanted to make an appeal for my existence. For that there was no other way than to commit a large crime."
Kato was moved to the Manseibashi Police Station in Akihabara this afternoon, and will be brought up on murder charges from June 10.
Tags: Akihabara Massacre 0 Comments
04.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Uniqlo in Harajuku goes manga mad!
Japanese discount fashion retailer Uniqlo has been making a splash all over the world with their unique tee shirt designs. On a trip to the store on Meiji-dori in Harajuku, however, it looked at first glace like an anime and manga hobby shop.
The event was a tie in for the 50th aniversary of "Shonen Sunday" and "Shonen Magazine."
01.10.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Ayanami Penguin has limited appeal...
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On my way home from Shinjuku, I passed the Kinokuniya book store to the south of Takashimaya department store. There, in the dark of night, was the most hideous thing I have ever seen: the Suica penguin dressed up as Ayanami Rei.
I assume it was an advertisement for the anime and manga hoard they have in there, but that face...does not make we want to buy. Note the sinister grin. Click below - if you dare!
She somehow managed to meet Cobra as Suica penguin, too. The disgrace knows no end.
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29.09.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Dating sims explain lolicon
A friend who plays entirely too many dating sims sent me some screen shots. I have no idea from where, but this is truly amazing. This lolicon idol is actually taking it upon herself to explain what lolicon is!
This is a rough translation, but she says, "Lolita is a word meaning adoration for the very brief moment when a young girl is just beginning to mature into adulthood."
It continues:
"That's why from the start I don't think carnal desires for girls over 15 can be called lolicon."
And then the kicker:
"And I'd say it's suitable to call anything below 6 pedophilia."
That just about clears it up, dating sim girl. Now what to do about "junior idols" clearly in the pedo zone?
Tags: Dating sims 0 Comments
27.09.2008 · by Eva
Tokyo Game Show Terror Alert
With the world's most anticipated annual gaming event soon upon us, organizers recently announced that all attendees admitted to TGS on days open to the general public will be subject full baggage search. The move follows a similar decision by Comiket organizers last summer to ensure public safety amidst threats posted via BBS and internet rumors. In the wake of the Akiba Massacre, in which perpetrator Tomohiro Kato used internet forums to inform the world of his criminal intent before killing 7 people and injuring many others, organizers have been taking extra precautions to tighten security at otaku related events.
There will be a total of four baggage checks at TGS, all stationed at points of entry to the event. Despite (or perhaps due to) the one day extension implemented last year, making the event open to the public for a total of two days, attendance was sky high at approximately 120,000 people. Though this pales in comparison to the near 500,000 who attended Comiket, attendees should expect long lines and come early, familiarizing themselves with forbidden articles.
Though the list has not yet been made available in English, these articles include:
- Anything longer than 50cm (including cosplay accessories).
- Anything that can be used as or resembles a weapon over 6cm in length, such as guns, model guns, knives, scissors, and needles.
- Drugs, poisons, and other potentially lethal substances.
- Combustibles, explosives, fireworks, excessive amounts of matches or lighters, and other materials deemed highly flammable.
- Hammers, screwdrivers, and other tools.
- Alcohol.
- Anything dangerous to use in a confined space, such as bicycles, roller skates, skate boards, yo-yos, and balls.
- Anything else deemed potentially dangerous by the staff.
Source: Ota-suke
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27.09.2008 · by Adrian A. Lozano
OriginalFake Kaws Star Wars Stormtrooper Line Up
Not enough sleep but I managed to stumble to the posh area of Tokyo known as Omotesando to stand in line to get a numbered ticket then later tonight I have to go back to see if I actually won one of these Original Fake Kaws Star Wars Stormtroopers. I wasn't expecting this many people, maybe about half but WOW. Just about everybody in line didn't look like they were collectors of Kaws, and there was a few homeless people spread throughout the line as well. Still I managed to get my ticket and the staff at Original Fake were quick to say "Move along, Move along".
To pick up the actual item you have to have an ID. I hope my Jedi Mind Trick is up to snuff.
Front of the line, it's not so bad.
Wait a second.
You have to be kidding me.
...................
"No it's not True!!!!
Thats impossible!!!!
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26.09.2008 · by Klopz via AKIBA Today
Art Maid Cafe Schatzkiste to Close Down
"Schatzkiste" means treasure chest in german and is also the name of a very original establishment in Akihabara. The title Art-Maid-Cafe might be a little misleading as this is not just a differently themed maid cafe but rather a place that is described by fans as an enclosed dream world with fictional characters that have their own artificial history. So instead of creating a simple reenactment of a story they rather live it. This is emphasized by the fact that the 9 people chosen as maids did not take a place as an exchangeable part of staff but rather as irreplaceable characters part of another world. This means that the maids you can meet in the cafe won't change - except for the random rotation - nor retire, leaving the story and atmosphere intact.
Despite the hidden location in a tiny attic above a doujinshi shop in the midst of akiba's back street area the place has managed to grow a very solid fan base and the only reason you don't see people lining up throughout the steep stairway would be simply because hardly anybody even knows the place exists. Maybe this is for the better though, after all the cozy atmosphere inside the tiny attic could only suffer by being overrun with maid hungry customers looking out to get hearts drawn onto their cappuccino.
There is a lot of mystery involved when digging into the matter, starting from the owner whose identity is unknown but who is said to often be hidden amongst the group of customers, drinking his hot or iced tea like everyone else, up to the various items appearing or disappearing around the tables. One thing definite though is the announced "end of chapter 1" and therefore the closure of the place on March 15th next year. This was planned from the start and does not mean the end of Schatzkiste but rather it's evolution. Until then the production of a new original comic and 4-panel stories is said to take place as well as the preparation for "Chapter 2" of Schatzkiste which might include the casting of new staff.
Schatzkiste is open from 12:00 to 22:00 everyday except Tuesdays.
Schatzkiste
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25.09.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Finland moe?!
At the recent "Imaginary Japan" conference held in Helsinki, Finland, it became clear just how hot the world's most northern capitol can become. The whole place seemed to be bursting with moe energy.
I myself went with the intension of doing a psychoanalytic treatment of the moe aesthetic, and was privileged to present with the likes of Susan J. Napier.
What was really surprising, however, was how otaku the stoic northerners can be! Whenever a visual-kei band rolls through town, it was said that so many fangirls slept overnight on the cold cobblestone streets in negative 20 degree Celsius weather that a new law had to be enacted to prohibit the dangerous behavior. Holy Hannibal, if that isn't devotion!
And I suspect this is a deeply rooted cultural trait. Exhibit A: A visit to the forgotten Finnish corner of the Museum of Cultures and Anthropology turned up an antiquated image of a young girl that reads "moe." It isn't visible at first, but click on the image for the evidence.
Now, I'll be the first to admit I don't read Finnish (or is this Russian?), but that is surely "moe" written there, big as you please.
Exhibit B: Random signs reading "Eromanga" and chocolates called "Geisha."
I for one salute this development! Burn with passion, Finland!! May the world be consumed by moe!
...One last parting shot: There is a local Finnish dialect (maybe somewhere in Lapland?) where "moe" means "hello." Moe to you, and have a pleasant day.
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19.09.2008 · by Eva via AKS
Computer Warriors Akiba Lion Hits the Streets
On September 21, ZEN Pictures will release the very special movie production "Computer Warriors Akiba Lion."
"Computer Warriors Akiba Lion" is a work birthed from a collaboration project between ZEN and the TOKYO MX program "Garimpeiro EX," an audition-style entertainment show. On the program, they hold "auditions" open to the public, which are then judged by members of the audience. For the making of this film, the audience had to choose three female idols to star in the lead roles. In the end, Arisa Taki (Red), Mai Yamaguchi (Yellow), and Yuko Shoji (Blue) were selected.
The story revolves around the three transforming fighter-heroines, dubbed the Computer Warrior Akiba Lion. Selected by the God of Computer World, they've been granted special powers to oppose the evil Cyber Faires, who have left the Computer World in order to dominate mankind. In order to extend the links between Kanda Myojin Shrine, which recently started offering blessings for computers, and area maid cafes, the film is set in Akihabara.
To commemorate the film's release, maid cafe Misty Heaven will holding a special event on the 21st, featuring a live appearance by the three Computer Warriors, including a performance of the theme song, talk about the movie, and photo sessions. The number of participants will be limited to 40. Those wishing to attend must bring one of the special event tickets found in the "Computer Warrior Akiba Lion CD-R Photo Collection," limited to a set of 80 and on sale now at Misty Heaven.
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19.09.2008 · by Eva via AKS
Macross F RC Ita-sha
In October, CCB will be releasing the first in its "Chara-con" character inspired radio controlled car series, two cars featuring character motif from the anime "Macross F." Pre-orders are currently being accepted as Asobit Hobby in Akihabara as well as other hobby stores.
With "Chara-con" series, a play on words combining both "character" and "control" from "radio controlled car," CCB plans to make a line of miniature and collectible "ita-sha." Ita-sha are known throughout Akihabara and otaku circles as cars that feature large and sometimes garish homages to favorite characters in the form of custom paint jobs, stuffed animals, dolls, figures, and seat covers. The word "ita-sha" is a combination of the Japanese "itai" (ouch, pain), and "sha" (vehicle); literally a car that is painful to look at, but a term that has come to be embraced by community.
The "Chara-con" series will likewise feature character decals, logos, and other images to recreate the ita-sha effect in the palm of your hand. Special limited edition decals will also be included for early purchases. In terms of RC capabilities, cars will be equipped with basic steering, brake, and acceleration in addition to two radio frequencies so that you can challenge your neighbor.
These first 2 cars will be based on CCB's 1/28 scale "Real Drive Mini" series, one featuring Ranka Lee and the other Sheryl Nome, both from the "Macross F" series. Available car types will include the Subaru Impreza, for Ranka, and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8, for Sheryl.
In regard to the upcoming product release, a company representative says, "This new Akibahara subculture of "ita-sha" has been getting quite a lot of attention in the media lately. Plastic model "ita-sha" are already on the market, so we wanted to be the first to make a radio-controlled model - one that can actually run around. We think this will really strike a chord with people who can't get their hands on a real ita-sha, but still want to taste the experience of what it's like owning one. If possible, we only want to expand our line-up from here."
Measuring 16cm long, the "Chara-con" will be priced at 4,500 yen each. First edition models will be limited to 3,000 per car.
Tags: Itasha 0 Comments
14.09.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Murakami Takashi looks up to otaku
Japan's most internationally renowned artist, Murakami Takashi, held a conference at the Apple Store in Ginza on September 12, where he spoke about the Geisai art festival and his inspiration, otaku.
"I wasn’t criticizing otaku with my work, but I was trying to capture a form of expression the way Picasso did with tribal art,” he said, starting off his talk with clips from YouTube and Nico Nico Douga of "Hare Hare Yukai" and the Zombies' version. "Otaku culture is getting deeper and more meaningless, and I can't understand it at all anymore. But it is worth it to try to explain it to people. We should try to re-examine why this is happening. … Art is about trying your best to express something, not about money. It’s about doing something more interesting and more creative like these individuals online. We can do anything now with technology, and one person’s thoughts have power. Things start with someone’s delusions. Geisai is a chance to make your delusions public right now and share information rapidly. ”
New trends in the otaku world seem to be a chief concern for Murakami, who planned for this year’s Geisai to have an itasha, itansha and itachari rally, DJ Halfby and hundreds of Nakasone OFF performers and anisong dancing by the Zombies. As if that isn’t enough, street idols such as Yu-ki, maid group Shuffle Maid and even AKB48 are all also scheduled to perform. With that line up, otagei displays are guaranteed.
There will be a maid café, boys school café, “combat café” and “samurai café,” cosplayers and a screening for Nobody Dies, the directorial debut of Mr. featuring survival-game violence and lolicon idols.
Basically, nothing is off limits in this one-day-only, Akihabara-esque extravaganza. Over 1,000 artists, 500 staff and 100,000 people are expected to be milling around, but Murakami refuses to offer another day of shows because "we Japanese have a problem with concentration."
The energy Murakami sees in otaku, ruled by innovation and creativity accentuated by personal computers and the Internet, is also something deeply tied to artistic production and amateur student projects, the twin concepts underpinning Geisai. Geisai, he said, is a school festival, the height of creativity, uncontrolled energy and emotional connections that lives on in the hearts of participants.
Geisai is unique in that it is not a gallery displaying its inventory for sale, but an idea that originated from artist Murakami for artists themselves to come together and create.
"Geisai is a fantastic chance for young artists to realize their dreams and reach an international audience,” said Philippe Segalot, a former advisor for Christies and a major player on the contemporary art sales scene. "Geisai is becoming a real brand name... I was just with major artists at a show in Versailles talking about the next big event, Geisai."
Murakami said he invited Segalot because Japan, "which has no art world" and is condemned to "isolation and localism" due to the island setting and mentality, needs critics, experts and buyers to introduce it into the world market.
Sato Rei, who at 18 attending Geisai #1 was selling 6-seconds-to-completion graffiti illustrations for 100 yen, is one example. She was discovered by Murakami at the event, worked as his assistant at Kai Kai Kiki for six years, then made her solo debut in New York in July of this year. Even he was surprised by her acclaimed work there - 44 canvases spliced together into a giant work roughly completed over three days.
The event will be held September 14 at Big Sight in Odaiba.
Tags: Murakami Takashi otaku 0 Comments
13.09.2008 · by Eva
Jubeat for You
In promotion of the newest title in Konami's Bemani series, 50 select game centers around Japan will be having public demonstration events for Jubeat (pronounced you-beat).
Released July 24 of this year, Jubeat joins the ranks of Dance Dance Revolution, Pop n' Music, Beatmania, and other titles in the Bemani series. The series focuses on a musically integrated game experience, incorporating elements of dance and music creation. Jubeat features a series of 16 small LCD display screens arranged in 4x4 fashion. These screens dual as buttons which the player presses during game play in rhythm with the music as they illuminate. Unlike other Bemani titles, in which the player reads a screen and interprets musical notation through a peripheral instrument, the screen is essentially the instrument itself, prompting some players to compare game play to arcade classic "whack-a-mole."
Public demonstrations in promotion of the game began August 16, and will last until mid October. Though no demonstration is planned for Akihabara, the closest event will be held near Shinkoiwa Station, about 15 min from Akihabara on the JR Sobu line, at Adores Game Center. The event will be held during operation hours September 20 and 21.
For more information please visit Adores Shinkoiwa, and the Official Jubeat Site.
For an online trial-play of Jubeat follow this link and click on the green button in the lower right corner.
Tags: games 0 Comments
12.09.2008 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Kanda Shrine blesses computers, fans get swag
Kanda-Myojin shrine in Akihabara has started blessing computers to prevent malfunctions. The temple also reportedly offers microchip talismans.
In related news of computer blessings, a flash memory device in the shape of an Eva entry plug, an Ayanami Rei USB and a Hatsune Miku web browser are in the works. More as details become available.
EDIT: USB Entry Plugs are out
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12.09.2008 · by Klopz via AKIBA Today
Evangelion USB Entry Plug
Kaga Create have released a new USB storage device shaped like the infamous entry plugs from the Evangelion: 1.01 movie released last year. Fans will recognize the difference to the designs from Evangelion TV version as the entry plug was one of the many devices that got a redesign for the theatrical feature.
Similar to the limited Ayanami Rei USB storage introduced earlier and this one should sell out in a similar fashion as it's also produced in limited numbers. Also just ike the previous one these devices sport 2 GB of data space so if you have a lot of data you should probably get a few of them.
The design was actually decided as part of an Evangelion art competition that took place in Omotesando Hills last year.
It's priced at 3980¥ and comes either in Zerogouki or Shogouki manner.
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