November 2007

Strengthening Ties with Asia

STRENGTHENING TIES

Japan is presently building close relations with its Asian neighbors. This month's special feature focuses on Japan's current relations with the ASEAN member countries, the Republic of Korea and China, and how these relations look set to develop in the future.

KANAZAWA

Home to one of Japan's most famous traditional gardens, steeped in history, and the offering the latest in contemporary art- a trip to Kanazawa has something for everyone.

DRIVING PROGRESS

The range of hybrid, electric and fuel cell powered vehicles on show at the recent 2007 Tokyo Motor Show offered new perspectives on the very nature of the car.

GOOD DESIGN

The Good Design Awards have aimed at improving lives and fostering industrial development for the past 50 years, highlighting more than 30,000 "good designs" in the past half century.

THE BEST FILMS OF ASIA

For the past two decades the Tokyo International Film Festival, one of the largest international film festivals in Asia, has been showcasing the attractions of Japanese and Asian films.

UNDERGROUND ACTION

Big things are happening under the feet of Tokyo's citizens. A new underground expressway is gradually taking shape, while a newly-constructed subway line is scheduled to start service next year.

MIDORI GOTO

With a record of active involvement in community engagement organizations and programs, internationally acclaimed violinist Midori Goto has been selected as a UN Messenger of Peace.

DESALINATION

As water shortages around the world grow ever more serious, several Japanese companies are concentrating on technologies that turn seawater into fresh water through the process of reverse osmosis.

AKIHABARA CULTURE

Known originally for its bargain price electric household appliances, Tokyo's Akihabara district is now a favorite haunt for fans of computers, video games, and anime and manga character goods.

FASCINATING FASHION

Francoise Morechand expounds her thoughts on the international allure of Japanese fashion.

PRODUCT/ART/CINEMA

Our monthly look at products, art and movies that are turning heads in Japan.

THE FLOATING SHRINE

During high tide, the breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine- inscribed as a world heritage cultural site in 1996- almost appears to be floating on the Seto Inland Sea.