22 posts tagged “japan”
I have made it back to California, but not before my traditional last-minute dash into Shibuya to find the newest releases to take home with me. I had three items on my shopping list. Fortunately I found two of the three, the only elusive product being Kojima Haruna's new photobook. "Sold Outo" was the response I usually got. I guess that is good news for Kojiharu, but bad news for CK...
Yes, I added the new CD/DVDs from Berryz Kobo and Watarirouka Hashirtai. Each one had multiple versions to choose from. Since I am not a big believer in buying multiple versions of the same CD, I chose version A for Watarirouka because it had the girls on the cover as opposed to the associated anime. For Berryz I chose the Watashi no Mirai no Danna-sama cover since I prefer that song to Ryuusei Boy. I always like to see what the big push items are at the stores on Tuesday. In front of Tsutaya was a booth with a girl carnival-barking for the new Mr. Children.
In front of Tower Records was a display for the new Otsuka Ai. When I walked into the store a familiar song was playing. But I am embarrassed to say I didn't know who it was. I was wracking my brain and finally asked the clerk who pointed me to Ai's CD. That's it, it is Sakuranbo!!!
I was torn whether or not to invest another 4000 yen on her new CD, which was a "best of" Instead I decided to pick up the old cd/dvd single. I headed back to Shinagawa for one last meal in Japan and my shuttle to Narita Airport. I always get choked up when I leave Japan. I'm not exactly sure why at this point as I visit often enough. I'm sure I will be back in the next six months or so. I think it's just that I am so happy while I'm there. It's like "This is where I belong!" Going back to California is such a letdown.
At risk of sounding like a broken record, this is the best trip I have ever been on in my life. I know I have said that on every trip I have gone on. But if you read my day to day activities you would have to agree this one was pretty special. Per usual I squeezed a ton of fun into 11 days. Again I found new areas to visit and new activities to do...
I saw 9 concerts/events, which is one less than my last trip...
SDN48 was the greatest find I had while in Japan. I saw them three times, and watched a fourth show on the AKB48 Cafe Monitors.
AKB48 Team Kenkyuusei: I managed to win two AKB48 shows, although they were for the "research students" I was slightly disappointed I got shut out on Teams A and K (Team B never performed) But Team RS has lots of cool girls in it, and they performed B4, Idol no Yoake which is the current stage I have seen the least. I did watch one Team A show in the cafe.
AKB Infinity: I am so thankful that I got to see both versions of this super play. My seats were great, and it gave me a chance to explore the amazing Tokyo Dome complex, complete with it's stadiums, shops and amusement parks. My only regret is at the end of the day I should have gone to meet Tanabe Miku instead of Sayaka. Oh well, next time!
Berryz Kobo: This show was so much better to me than the Berikore show I saw last year. My seats had something to do with it. But give the girls credit, they were on fire that night and it was a super setlist. And Maasa, oh baby!
Morning Musume: All I can say is Reina's Birthday show...awesome! I have to be honest, I have been getting a little bored with MoMusu as of late. I'm not sure how that will manifest itself in the future. But I am glad I got to see my favorite wonky-girl celebrate her birthday, and it was one last chance to see Koharu perform. Plus I always have a great time when I am with Celestia!
In addition to concerts I got to visit some great places and eat some amazing food. My visit to Tokyo Tower was amazing. The view from up there is incredible, especially while listening to to soothing DJ stylings of AKB48's Umeda Ayaka. I loved having manja dinner with my new friends in Ueno. Odaiba was tons of fun, hopefully they will have more Yazawa collectibles at the Idoling!!! store when I return...
DVDs
AKB48 Budokan Box Set
AKB48 Team K 4th Stage
AKB48 Team K 3rd Stage
Ohori Megumi Pre-AKB Gravure DVD
Erika Yazawa "Yazapai School" DVD
CDs
AKB48 Team A 5th Stage
AKB48 Team K 5th Stage
AKB48 Team B 4th Stage
AKB48 Team A 2nd Stage
AKB48 Team A 3rd Stage
AKB48 "River" Reg. Version
AKB48 "River" Theater Version (x2)
AKB48 "Iiwake Maybe" Theater Version
AKB48 "Namida Surprise" Theater Version
AKB48 "Sakura no Hanabiratachi" Original Version
Watarirouka Hashirtai "Ganpeki Guu no ne" Ltd Version A
Berryz Kobo "Ryuusei Boy" Ltd. Danna Sama-Version
Morning Musume "Kimagure Princess" Ltd. Closeup Vers.
Otsuka Ai "Sakuranbo" Ltd. Version
Idoling!!! "Kokuhaku" Ltd. Version
PBs
SKE48 Complete Book
Erika Yazawa "7ban Second Yazawa" (autographed)
Idol T-shirts
AKB48 NHK 2008 AKB-SKE
Idoling Yazawa #7
Berryz Kobo Fall 09 Tour "Maasa" (w/ Bandana)
Tanaka Reina 20th Birthday T-shirt (w/ wristband)
Misc.
AKB Infinity Playbill (x2)
AKB48 2010 Calendar (x2)
Ohori Megumi Biographical Book (Autographed w/ 2 personal pics)
Nissin Soup Mugs w/ AKB Autographs (x3, Tomochin, Tomo-mi, and Myao)
Ohori Megumi Ameba Pigg Uchiwa (2 versions)
Hatakeyama Chisaki Futsal Uchiwa (autographed)
Assorted Magazines and Newspapers Featuring AKB48
Then you have the pics. This is dangerous territory for me. I have never been much of a pic collector. But I have found people have given me so many that I have started to develop a collection anyway. Most of these were given to me as gifts, and many of them come with the DVDs and Calendars. But I also found myself purchasing a few on my own...Oh no!!!
Pics
Iwasa Misaki x2
Tanabe Miku x2
Komori Mika x1
Ishida Haruka x1
Ohori Megumi x12 (1 autographed)
Infinity Cast A (2 pics)
Infinity Cast B (2 pics)
Akimoto Sayaka "Infinity"
Iwasa Misaki "Infinity"
Tanaka Reina (3 sets of 2)
Sudo Maasa (2 sets of 2)
Takahashi Ai (1 set of 2)
AKB October Team A (1 set of 5)
AKB October Team K (2 sets of 5)
AKB48 Budokan Set (5 pics)
AKB48 Calendar Set (6 pics)
Errr, that makes 62 pics in total. No, I'm not a collector of pics. Really I'm not. You believe me, don't you?
Most of the AKB48 fans have always said to me that the handshake events are the best thing about AKB. And now I think I see why. What made this trip so extra-special was that I got closer to some of my favorite idols than ever before. Most of you know my favorite idol in the world is AKB48's Ohori Megumi. And to be able to "high-five" her three times. And each time it was a warmer experience because she then knew who I was. Seeing some of the AKB girls reaction to my being a fan, like Urano Kazumi, Iwasa Misaki and Nakaya Sayaka was awesome! And the fact that Hatakeyama Chisaki was wondering why I wasn't at her promotional futsal event just made me even sorrier I couldn't attend. I had never seen Chisaki before, and in just a few days she rocketed to the top of my idol pecking order. That's how incredible she is!
At the end of the day I am just a happier person when I am in Japan. I keep hearing the echoes of my friends "You are here often enough, why don't you just move here", "You should have an easy time finding work here". Obviously it would be different if I lived there. Life can't just be about seeing concerts and buying stuff. But the fact is that I have been home for slightly more than 24 hours, and I am already counting the days until my return....Sigh
Pardon me while I go check the flight prices
CK in California
I just returned to my hotel from my last evening in Japan. Let me just say that my friend Hiro has been a true saint on this trip. And even before that. He has been instrumental in making sure I had a great time here. He introduced me to so many other fans., showed me some of the post-show wota hangouts. And all the while he has done a great deal to make sure Meetan knew I was her big California fan who had been sending her letters and gifts. So I really wanted to take him out for a big night of dinner and drinks before I left Japan. And then, just when I thought he could do no more to make my latest to Tokyo so awesome...
ZOMG!!! An autographed Uchiwa from none other than Hatakeyama Chisaki, complete with sweat stains from her futsal match that night! Accordine to Hiro, she even asked why I wasn't at her event. Awwwwww? I so wish I could have been there! Chaki is so awesome! If you ever get a chance to see SDN48 perform, you will know what I am talking about.
Okay, the big story for this post is obviously about Morning Musume. I had the opportunity to attend the last show of the weekend at Nakano Sunplaza. And it didn't dawn on me until I arrived that this was Reina's birthday show. ZOMG x2, another birthday show? And for my favorite member of H!P no less. This was surely going to be great. But before I get to that, i had another new experience in Japan. One that I have been wanting to do every time I have come here. And no, it isn't a visit to Kabukichō. It was...
The moment i passed through the gates and into the facility, I knew this place was special. Wow! What a beautiful park! Once again the Christmas decorations were already up, adding even more beauty to the occasion. I must have taken a hundred or so pictures of this place. Oh, and just about every female in the place was wearing minnie Mouse ears. I was dying, they were all so cute!
The rides...well, it is Disney. They focus more on themes and detail rather than thrills. And I felt myself getting very sentimental while I was there. The Christmas music played a big part of it. But I think a lot of it had to do with Disneyland being a big part of my youth. Couple that with this being my last day in Tokyo and I am surprised I didn't break down and cry.
Morning Musume "Nine Smile" Tour at Nakano Sunplaza...Tanaka Reina Birthday Special
After a full day of rest I headed over to Nakano. I wanted to get there early because the Tokyo shows have a tendency to run out of merchandise, and I wanted to make sure i didn't get stonewalled like last Spring. It turned out that all of Reina's tour shirts were sold out, as well as her 11/08/09 photo. Drats! But wait...There was a new shirt on the board, one that just came out for this weekend...
I have seen the birthday shirts before and always admired them. And now I have one! It is hard to believe that Reina is no longer a teenager. It seems like yesterday when she was a spry thirteen year old cutting her teeth with MoMusu. And look at her now, a gorgeous and sexy adult. Also, great Engrish! The front of the shirt says "This is my twentieth birthday and want to thank everybody!"
While I waited for Celestia I decided to take a walk around Nakano. There is a new restaurant that opened in the mall across the street. And for the grand opening these guys showed up...
I don't know about the Michael Jackson guy, but the Jack Sparrow was almost a dead ringer for Johnny Depp, albeit a little tall! That said, nobody was better, or hawter for that matter than this girl...
ZOMG x3!!! It is the famous Tanaka Reina cosplayer!!! She is soooooo adorable. Actually, when you get really close to her she looks less like Reina. But from 20 feet away? I could have sworn it was actually Reina! That girl is so awesome! The things I would do to spend a few minutes "quality time" with her! But alas, on with the show...
I met Celestia, and we headed in to the venue. This is the third time she and I have gotten together for a concert. Hi Celestia! It was awesome to see you again! There were also a few people there from JPH!P and Hello! Online in attendance. I got to meet Pete, who attended Eurowota 2009. It was his first time in Japan seeing Morning Musume, so he was having a blast! Our seats were in the 5th row, far left. There were advantages and disadvantages to this. Since the first two rows don't go to the sides we were actually in the third row. And whenever one of the girls danced to the far side, they were practically on top of us. that made it easier to get some one on one face-time with the girls. And since we were right next to the speakers, it made the show sound even more intense and loud! The disadvantage was that we watched much of the show in "semi-profile". But we could see 90% of the stage and the video screen, so all was cool.
The show opened op with 3,2,1 Breakin' Out into How Do You Like This Japan? and wow! The show was already off to a breakneck pace. The girls were wearing cowhide costumes, and Koharu and Gaki were immediately dancing over to our spot to rev us up. At one point Risa looked directly at us and waved, but I think that was more at Celestia, who was decked out in Risa-green!.
After a rockin' VTR, it was time for the new single. Kimagure Princess was alright, it was funny to watch them sing with the sped up voices, heheh! What was more impressive were trhe jeans and chaps the girls were wearing. And to make it even more fun, after the song the girls were talking about their outfits. And in the process there was plenty of turning around and showing it off from the rear! It was like "Look how cute my butt looks in these" That was great!
I loved Nanchatte Renai live! I think it may be my favorite single from this lineup. After that there was plenty of playacting for Genki+, a song I had totally forgotten about and really like. LinLin was near us for most of this song, and had a priceless look on her face the whole time. I am honestly bored of Ame on Furanai, so thankfully they did an abridged version. Sukiyaki is one of my favorite MM songs. Risa and Koharu did a duet on it in similar costumes to those worn for GuruGuru Jump last spring. I enjoyed it of course, but would have really loved if the entire group performed it.
The rest of the unit songs consisted of Eri/Aika on Haru Beautiful Everyday, which had the throngs of Eriwota in a frenzy. Ai and Reina performed the High-King B-side, which was fine. I enjoy any moment when Tanaka is onstage. Finally Sayumi came out and solo'd the first part of Aruiteru. I honestly don't care for that song, but for some reason I enjoyed it live. Sayu's voice was cracking through some of it, so I guess it was a good idea to have the rest of the group come out and "save" her for the rest! And poor Sayu! Under the bright lights you could really see how bad her skin is getting.
Celestia reminded me of how much she didn't like Aki Urara. And Shouganai Yumeoibito I had seen before. But I was really anticipating the Sakura/Otome Gumi set of Sakura Mankai and Yuujou ~Kokoro no Busu ni wa Naranee!~ Those were my two favorite songs from those shuffles. And to me Yuujou was the best performance of the 2008 Winter show, the first live H!P concert I ever attended. I loved that the audience had their pink fans for the Sakura Gumi song so they could play along with the girls. And I thought it was even cooler that the Sakura Girls kept using the fans through the second song. It was really hawt, and on my shortlist of favorite performances of the night.
Dekai Ucchu ni Ai ga Aru never gets stale to me, and everyone had their "smileys" from the tour logo. At the end they perfectly formed the happy face logo at the center of the stage, so cool! The "Coupling Medley" was most of the recent B-sides. And the best part had to be during Gaki's solo in Bonkyu Bonkyu Bomb Girl, where she changed a line to yell "Happy Birthday" at Reina, much to her shock! By the way, when JunJun came over to our end of the stage I noticed her legs are even more impressive than Aichan's. I get so used to seeing skinny legs on idols (Hello Reina) So I find it sexy when they have such muscles in their thighs and calves.
Joshi Kashimashi Monogatari was great, and might have been my favorite performance. They did a new version of the song. And while I had trouble understanding any of it it was still cool to watch the rest of the groups' antics on stage when one of them was soloing. I also thought it was cool that the stage would turn the members' color when it was her turn. The main set ended with two songs I am getting bored of, Naichao Kamo and the neverending Resonant Blue. But now it was time for some real action...
The Reina encore chant commenced while the entire venue began to fill with blue light. Since the Reina Birthday Committee handed me blue glowsticks and mine were beginning to dim, i freshened up! It was quickly back to business as usual with Songs. I was waiting to see if Reina would react to the sea of blue, but she took it in stride and kept focused on the song. She of course thanked everyone during the closing MC's, and what would a MM show be without Love Machine? Fun version, mainly becasue it closed the show...
Or did it? The Reina encore chant resumed in full force. Celestia gave me a quizzical glance, and I responded "Hey, the doors aren't open yet" And after a couple of minutes out popped Reina. Hell yes, double encore!
She did a five minute solo MC talking about turning 20. I think deep down she is really sad that she technically isn't a lolli anymore. She said something to the affect that she hopes her fans don't abandon her because she is getting older. Awwww, Reina my dear that will NEVER happen as far as I am concerned! She also kept saying she wanted to perform one more song for us, but sadly that didn't happen. I guess they had nothing queued up in the DAT player! She thanked everyone one last time and that was it. I tried to get her attention as she went off stage right in front of me, but alas she didn't turn.
Celestia and I went out for a post show meal and reminisced about the show. It is so cool that she gets to live here and see so many shows, while I have to fly across the globe to get there. She laughed about that. "Geez, you are here often enough, are you sure you don't live here?" Hehe, maybe one day. After dinner we headed back home, separating at Shinjuku Station where we head in different directions. i always get a little sad when that happens. Awww, hopefully I will see you again this Spring Celestia! Heck, you know I'll be around!!!
This ends my reporting from Japan as my plane back to California is scheduled to leave this afternoon. But as always I will do one more summary post when I get home. It was another wonderful time spent here in Japan, one that I will never forget!
CK in Tokyo
Today was all about connecting with the idols...
After an amazing Friday I had a HUGE Saturday planned. I had a ticket to each of the performances of AKB48's Infinity at Theater G-Rosso. After that I planned on heading to Akihabara to see SDN48's show one last time on the theater monitors. Given the time parameters, there wouldn't be any time to rest. So I would be spending over 8 hours at the Tokyo Dome complex, then straight to the Don Quijote. I swear this trip is going to do me in!!!
I love that you can still watch the AKB48 show even if you haven't won a ticket. Probably the biggest thing i will miss when I head back to the states is the awesome girls from SDN48 and their terrific stage. So even if I didn't have a ticket to last night's show, I had to watch it one last time. BTW, I love the theater-style screen and improved sound system in the cafe. It enhances the experience outside a great deal. I couldn't wait to see all of my favorite songs one last time, although by the time I made it there it was past the opening MCs and on to the unit songs. So I missed Black Boy. Good thing I have the Budokan box version to make me feel better.
I waited for the end of the show, standing with members of the Chen Qu birthday committee. They asked if I could help by watching their stuff while they collected all of the glowsticks from the show. Finally Hiro and most of the other guys I have been hanging out with came out of the theater, and it was time for "High Touch" Just to note, I was fully aware this may be the last time I see Meetan on this trip...
As I made my way through the line CinDy stopped me again and grabbed my hand. I thought I heard her say this on Sunday, but now I am sure. As she took my hand she said "I love you". WHAT!!!!!!! CinDy loves me? WOW!!! Actually I imagine she is saying that she loves that I am a fan. But OMG, that was shocking. Hmmm, maybe she does really love me? Sorry Meetan, you weren't quick enough. Meetan was two girls after CinDy. Remember I wrote fan letters to Meetan and Chisaki on Thursday. Whenever I send Meetan a letter i always sign it with a drawing of my license plate. That paid off in spades because when I got to Ohori instead of "high-fiving" me she grabbed my hand and held it tightly. Then she shook it back and forth while smiling and thanking me!!! That was soooooooooo great!!! A few girls later came Chisaki, and she grabbed my hand with both of hers and gave me a huge smile. I could tell she was reacting to my birthday card/fan letter.
So the fan letters were one of the best ideas i have had on this trip. Both of my favorite girls were totally appreciative. I am so happy! Nonti was at the end of the line, and I paused in front of her to say "Arigatou Nonti" Since I sort of skipped past her on the previous events, I was glad to finally give her good focus as I really like her!
Why the hell are there hundreds of cosplayers hanging around? Is this the Giants/Cosplay HQ? They were everywhere! Just standing around and taking pictures of one another. I took refuge in the Baseball cafe for an overpriced sandwich and beer.
Theater G-Rosso is pretty neat! They were playing the PV for "River" and the CM for Infinity on the wall. i went in early because i saw they were selling the program with bonus pics outside. I figured I would buy two programs so I could get pics for each cast. There were 6 sets available, and only one of the Sayaka/Takamina sets were sold out. So I picked the ones I wanted and went on my merry way.
Thirty minutes before showtime the doors opened, so I headed in to find my seat. I was eighth row just right of center. It was perfect because the stage is two-tiered and this had me at perfect eye level for the upper part of the set. Finally it was showtime!
I am not going to do a full review of the story, but focus more on the girls performances. You have to remember my Japanese comprehension is not very good. So it was nice to read a full review and synopsis on Stage48 by Rui before I went. It's actually a simple story...
It opens hundreds of years ago, on Maria's dying day, leaving Ruka the vampire to an eternity of loneliness. Flash forward to present day, and Ruka the vampire has been living in eternal heartache because he misses Maria. But she has been reborn as a young schoolgirl. Maria hangs out with her friends who are on the high school dance team. Until one day she is attacked by street toughs. But as they threaten her with a knife out comes Ruka to save her by casting an evil spell over the guys. And the courtship begins. At first maria doesn't understand what is going on, but she is mesmerized by the "Blue Rose" (hehe) given to her by Ruka. Her friends are concerned, especially Ai (Iwasa Misaki) and Eri (Nakatsuka Tomomi) and after meeting the vampire hunters they follow Maria into the forest to Ruka's castle. Meanwhile Maria's love for Ruka grows.
After an intermission the four girls with smaller parts, along with Tanamin and Nakayan who play Ruka's maids sing Honehone Waltz, and then the maids do a few quick jokes before Act II begins. The rest of the play is mainly about Maria's struggle to choose what's more important to her, the acceptance of her friends or her love for Ruka. It is also Ruka's struggle to come to terms with what it means to truly love someone. (anyone hear a Sting song in the background as I type that?) Not to mention the vampire hunters are hot on Ruka's trail...
As far as the character of Maria is concerned, I struggled to decide who I liked better in the role. But after thinking about it for a long time I would have to give Yukirin the slight edge. It wasn't that Takamina didn't do a great job. She was wonderful. And she pulled off the femininity and fragility of Maria very well. It's just that Yuki is more of what I imagined the character of Maria to be like.
And then there was Iwasa Misaki...ZOMG! She is absolutely incredible in this!!! Wasamin was really the third star of this behind the main characters, and she played her intense senpai character perfectly! She was also up front in most of the songs, and sang beautifully. Oh, and there is one scene that is supposed to take place in Shibuya where they sing "109". Wasamin comes out in a short black skirt, with a fedora and red wig and looked soooooo cute! This girl is going to be a star once we get the shuffles.
*And it has been decided... After the shuffles, I have two favorite members, both in SDN. So I will need an AKB Oshimen. And after much contemplation, Wasamin wins!!!
Nakatsuka Tomomi was also very good playing the "sweet and caring" friend of Maria. it was nice to see some of these girls get a moment to shine. And they were both excellent actresses. Same with Nacchi, who played Maria's more "flirty" friend"
Tanamin and Nakayan as the maids were so adorable!!! Those blonde wigs they were wearing with the maid cosplay was great! I don't know where the following pic came from (it was given to me by Hina from no akb no life) but it is so cute!
I was conflicted for the second show. I wanted to see Sayaka to see if she would remember me from New York. But again, I had so many favorite members in supporting parts. Would I choose Tanamin? Haachan? and now Nakayan was a dark horse! but alas i stuck with the original plan. When i got up to her she gave me her patented "surprised" look. "Konba....oh, hello!" the way she looked at me I was sure she remembered me. So I said "New Yorku" to her as well. She replied in English "You are from New York?" Oops, I switched gears and told her she was wonderful in the show and it was great to see her again. As I left she glanced back at me with a quizzical look as I walked to the exit. So maybe she remembered our convo at NYAF when I told her I would be coming to see Infinity. In any case, Sayaka was totally gracious as always!
By the way, the Sae/Yuki performances was their last of the run. Sae got a little sentimental during the closing "thank you's'. So if there is a DVD (why wouldn't there be?) I am guessing that was the taping. There were quite a few cameras in the place.
So there ya go. An exhausting day. But one filled with idol love! But as tiring as the day sounds (it was) I had an awesome time every step of the way. I am taking a little rest this morning. but in just a few hours I am off to Nakano to see Morning Musume. I'm sure it will be great!
CK in Tokyo
And I thought today would be a humdrum day. Boy was I wrong! the day started with my visit to Odaiba that I spoke about in the previous post. And for evening entertainment my AKB friends advised me that AKB48 Team K's Umeda Ayaka makes a weekly appearance at Tokyo Tower as a DJ. So after a short rest I headed to Hamamatsuchō, and my long walk to Tokyo Tower!
This was another excellent suggestion! I had been to Tokyo Tower before, but I had never gone up to the observatory. It costs about 800 yen, and you go up about 150 meters to a two-story panoramic observation deck, complete with a restaurant, gift shop, and Club 333. That is where Umechan would be appearing.
BTW, Christmas is in full force in Tokyo already. Ayaka, along with Kobayashi Kana and Oku Manami attended the official Tower holiday festival the other day. So like Akihabara and my hotel, the tower is already set for the holidays!
Umechan was just sitting at a table reading notes as the engineer spun songs. It was a really nice selection that fit the mood of the place really well. Sort of a romantic, but cool set of music. And Ayaka has an extremely soothing speaking voice. It created the perfect atmosphere for the romantic setting. Here are a couple of pics from the mid-span of Tokyo Tower...
What a romantic place. My favorite view was the one of Odaiba where you could see the ferris wheel there changing color in a carnival of lights. Unfortunately it was to far away to show in the picture. Oh I wish i had a girl with me. Well, I had Umechan. But that doesn't really count, does it? There were about 10-20 fans standing by the DJ table while I was there. At one point she kept glancing at me. I couldn't tell if she was thinking "This guy is an AKB fan?" or maybe it was "Who is this weirdo that is watching the show?" In either case, I had enough atmosphere for one night, so I headed to the elevators.
EDIT: I found out later that my friend Hiro had sent her a message on her blog that day to look for me at the event. And since I was the only non-Japanese I could see hanging out in the vicinity of Club 333, that must have been why she kept looking my way. Had I only known!
When you leave they don't let you all the way down, but instead let you off on the 4th floor. That way you have to pass through the mall and all of it's shops and restaurants to get out of the place. I was already thinking about food as I hadn't eaten a morsel since that "Jambalaya" I had in Odaiba. So when I turned the corner the answer to my hunger pangs were right in front of me...
After that i headed back to Shinagawa and my hotel. For a day that started out as nothing, I sure had an awesome time! I went to the land of Idoling!!! in the morning. Saw Umechan's live appearance at Tokyo Tower, And then topped it off with a slice from the restaurant chain that Buono! made famous to international fans!!!
Yes, it was awesome. Now I just need to rest up for my big day tomorrow. Seeing Infinity twice. Wish me luck!
CK in Tokyo
Finally a post that is focused on Hello! Project. But first...
I love that all of the idol groups seem to be omnipresent around Japan. I was walking through a department store yesterday and they had Kimagure Princess playing in the store's audio system. I was LOLing at that. And on the JR trains I have seen a video ad for some website featuring Idoling!!!, and a promotion for Kojima Haruna's upcoming photobook. But what I really love are the billboards!
The first one I noticed was this ad for Pino featuring Perfume at Tamachi station. I haven't big as big a fan of them as some others, but I love the ad. Really cute! The next one is a little dark because I took it in bad weather at night...
I was walking to dinner with some friends in Ueno, and I grabbed this pick quickly as they weren't interested in hunting for Idol stuff. But that is AKB48's Fujie Reina and Chikano Rina promoting...ice cream??? I think that is what it's for, I'm not sure. Finally...
I think the funniest thing about this Manoeri ad is that it is right next to the AKB48 theater! (hehe)
Berryz Saiko! (clap clap clap clap)
Okay, I finally got to do something H!P related other than hunting for pics at the H!P stores. I was a little bit disappointed because I tried to strategize the day so I could see both AKB48 and Berryz Kobo. But the AKB48 email system screwed me up by sending me a phantom message hinting that I won a show, then it turned out I didn't. Some sort of glitch in the system. Whatever, I was kinda tired yesterday, so two shows would have definitely wiped me out! But I made it to Tokyo Koseinenkin Keikan in plenty of time, bought my Maasa shirt and photoset, and I was ready for action!
As I got to my thirteenth row seat i was a little bit further to the left than i thought I was going to be. That's okay, I was still in front of the stage. The best gauge is whether I am paying more attention to the monitors or the girls on stage, and I was definitely focused on the live action. Scanning the audience, most of the people around me were either Risako or Momo fans. Although there seemed to be a good mix of all the girls different colors. I would say the least represented color there was for Captain, but I did have a Saki fan right in front of me. A girl, and her wotagei-ing was as intense as anyone's! behind me was another girl in Yurina colors, to my left was a Miyabi fan, and to my delight another Maasa fan sat down on my right!
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After Madayade and Munasawagi Scarlet, they did a cute little skit (starring Maasa again, see a pattern forming here?) and went into Chinami's solo. As high a voice she has, I was a bit surprised she was having trouble hitting the high notes. So I was slightly disappointed, unlike the next two "unit songs". I especially like Helation Summer. But one of the coolest performances of the night was the "beatbox" version of Dschingis Khan. In fact I will go as far as saying that this version is better than the original. Chinami and Captain voiced the percussion parts, with Miyabi doing the bass. It is really cool!
And for those of you who know the setlist and were wondering, Momoko did an excellent job with Very Beauty. She is just a fantastic performer, and makes it look easy the entire show. The next great moment came in Special Generation. Huh? I usually complain about that song being overplayed. But the Sea Breem cosplay costumes were hilarious. And they kept wearing them during Nigiyaki na Fuyu, which I had never heard before. I loved it!!!
I was excited about the "special medley" because it had so many great songs in it. I only wish they had done more of Kiche Desse. And unlike what it says on H!O, it was Momo on the Xylophone for this show, But Maasa carried it onto the stage. Hehe, Maasa is strong! Suhada Pichi Pichi was another great performance, especially by the fans. For some reason my hangover came back during Monkey Dance. I dunno, maybe it was the song itself. I quickly felt better once they started singing Rival. And for the encore...
BTW, what is it the fans say during the encore chant for Berryz? "Berryz something or other" Whatever it is, I thought it was cool, just like the "Berryz saiko!" chant after the show. Clap was a nice song to end with.
Keep in mind that I watch the show with "Maasa colored glasses" on, but I thought she was absolutely sensational. She is a totally different performer from when i saw Berryz Kobo live last year. The only bummer is that she seems to be taking the leadership role away from Captain, who barely said a word throughout the show. I was also impressed with Risako. Her singing has gotten much better, and she was always smiling when I watched her. I think she is becoming slightly less self-conscious, which may have been her problem before. And Momo is always great! Miyabi is a great singer, but she just doesn't stand out to me for some reason. So at the end of the day I adore Maasa even more than before, and Riichan takes a huge leap in my BK pecking order. Who'da thunk it? Oh, and the coolest part...at the end of the show the guy to my right shook my hand as he was glad to meet another Maasa fanatic. Partners in battle!!!
So there ya go, Berryz are great. My next H!P review will be Morning Musume this Sunday. That will surely be an awesome show! between then and now i have more AKB fun in store, and you never know what surprises might pop up. I will leave you with another pic of my latest infatuation, the adorable Chisaki Hatakeyama from SDN48. I have also been checking out her Ameba blog, very nice!
CK in Tokyo
Wow did it get cold last tonight! I was out to dinner and shopping with some friends in Ueno, and all of a sudden this frigid wind and icy rain hit the area. Of course my warmest clothes were back at the hotel, so I got to shiver my way through the evening, The "good" news was we were all equally under-dressed and cold as hell, so i didn't feel alone in my discomfort. Hopefully things will warm up a bit tomorrow when I see Berryz Kobo in Shinjuku.
I have traditionally purchased my Hello! Project tickets through a deputy service before I arrive in the country. The good thing about that was 1) I assured myself of being able to see shows before I set foot in the Japan. And 2) I didn't have to go through the hassle of figuring out how to get tickets on my own. The problem was that I was paying outrageous amounts of money for mediocre tickets, and rarely getting close enough for a little face time with the idols. But that all changed on my last trip in May, and it is continuing with this trip.
The fact is that H!P tickets are readily available at the reseller shops throughout Tokyo. It is an easy process, they have all of the tickets in glass cases with the section, row and price. You simply grab a salesperson and point to the ticket you want...and that's it! Today at Gorakudoh they had tons of tickets for Berryz, MoMusu, Arashi, AKB Infinity, you name it! And the fact is I paid the same price for a great seat as I did for a mediocre seat through a deputy service. My friend Arden always told me this was the way to go, and Celestia confirmed it. This is why my seats have gotten a heck of a lot better on my last two trips.
Since I had no concerts to see today, I spent the day doing a little shopping. And I found some amazing stuff, and a few cool deals...
In a way I feel like a surfer giving away the best surf spot. But I think everyone knows about Trio2 by now. This shop is an absolute Wota heaven! Just imagine a store dedicated to all things J-pop, specializing in AKB48, Hello! Project, Idoling!!! and the like. That is Trio2 in Nakano. They have a huge supply of pics, just about every idol mag you can imagine, and tons of used DVDs and PBs. And anyone who was purchased used stuff in Japan can tell you, "used is new!" BTW, what the heck are these outfits in the window of the H!P Store Harajuku?
Suffice it to say i have spent far too much money already on this trip. I had anticipated this problem, and brought more Yen than ever before. I knew I had to pay cash for all of my concert tickets this time around, and I also knew I was going to be buying the new AKB48 7-disc Sokaku Matsuri behemoth. That thing was majorly expensive. But it has 6 different concerts, a "making of disc", a huge photobook and a great picbinder with pics. I was ecstatic because my random pics included Meetan...and Tanamin! But the greatest find was at Trio2.
I should be used to this, as it was hinted on the package. But as I opened my copy of Yazawa Erika's photobook something immediately caught my eye....
It was autographed!!!!!
Isn't that awesome? I totally adore this girl, although I have never seen Idoling!!! in person before. It also came with a nice little picset. Yazawa is the epitome of idol awesomeness. there is a ton of other stuff I want to buy, but I am pacing myself. Aww shucks, who am I kidding?
This just might be the greatest experience I have ever had as an idol fan. I had the chance to see SDN48 for a second time this weekend. And it just confirmed that what they are doing is taking the entire idol concept to an entirely new level. Their first stage is nothing less than sensational. The music is great, and the dancing is superb. And ever since the first show, I can't stop thinking about...
Hatakeyama Chisaki: CHAKIIIIIII!!!!! This girl is an amazing idol! I believe she is the 2nd youngest in the unit, but she stars throughout the entire stage. She apparently had a nice gravure career before joinging SDN. And I know Ray will love her because she looks a lot like Koike Rina. And the coolest thing is it is her birthday this week, and I have won a ticket for her birthday show! Oh, and don't tell Meetan, I wrote Chisaki a fan letter!
One of the coolest traditions of SDN shows is the post concert "High Touch". After every performance the girls line up in the hallway, and you get to "high five" them as you leave the theater. You can also get a few brief words in with them if you really quick about it. And you know what this means.......
NATSUKO!!!!!
Nachu is sooo funny!!! When I got up to her she decided she wanted to teach me her "hand gesture"., which is like a combination of the Hawaiian Shaka Sign and the Vulcan "live long and prosper". I kept fumbling with it, and in the meantime I started to hold up the line. Then one of the staff pushed me, which made me fly right by Sato Yukari and Noro Kayo. But I was able to stop my momentum at Meetan. Luckily Hiro had said to her that I was right behind him, so she gave me a big smile and "arigatou" as she grabbed my hand instead of slapping it. But I didn't want to get pushed twice, so I kept moving to the end of the line. That's okay, I am going to see SDN48 again on Thursday night, so I will have another chance to say hello to Megumi, and this time I will hopefully make eye contact with Nonti and Yukarin.
I am slightly hungover today from a bad combination of Suntory Hi-Ball's and Chu-Hi Strong. But I should recover in time for Berryz tonight. 13th row center...awesome!!!!!
CK in Tokyo
Yes, I am back in Japan, but it was "touch and go" for a while...
I am sure this is going to be another awesome trip. But the way it started made me a little unsure. So if you will indulge me for a moment, I need to lament. Beginning with Friday morning when I slept through my alarm, and woke up when I should have already been en-route to the airport!!! That was an even bigger issue considering the major bridge between my house and SFO has been closed for the last 5 days. Getting a taxi was just as hard, as the entire transportation system is in total breakdown. But I made it to the train, and made it to the airport on time. However, in my haste a forgot to pack a few important items...oh well!
My flight left on-time, which was important since I had a show to go to my first night in town. It was a nice flight up until about 1500 miles outside of Tokyo, where we hit MAJOR turbulence. It was the roughest flight I have ever been on. they even had to suspend the meal service because it was too dangerous for the crew to stand up. Then the plane was late because we had to sit in a holding pattern for 30 minutes due to Narita Traffic. Then the luggage was late for some unknown reason. And then...traffic into Tokyo was horrible, it took almost two hours to get to my hotel. All in all it took almost 3 1/2 hours from landing to hotel check-in, sheesh! The good news was that I still had time to make the show! But I digress...
This is my fourth trip to Japan in less than two years. People always find it remarkable how many shows and events I am able to see. There is a bit of a strategy to it, although it doesn't leave me a lot of time to explore the many other wonderful things about this country. That's okay, one day I will have time to do all of that stuff. But I come here with a specific purpose. So since AKB48's schedule is usually a last minute thing, I try to come when there are multiple Hello! Project events going on, and schedule my trip around that. As a result this trip is shaping up to be just as hectic as the last one, concert-wise!
Morning Musume: Going to the evening show on 11/8. According to Celestia, we have 5th row seats. Awesome!!!!!
Berryz Kobo: Planning on going to the 11/3 evening show in Shinjuku, but I don't have a ticket yet. That is my quest for today and tomorrow. Find a berryz ticket!
AKB Infinity: AKB48's new play!!! I have 7th row for both performances on Saturday the 7th. That means I will get to see both casts, Sayaka/Takamina and Sae/Yukirin.
SKE48; I have one last chance to win tickets for Wednesday 11/4. If i win it will be my first visit to Nagoya!
AKB48: So far i have won three shows, today for Team Kenkyuusei, Tuesday Team A matinee and Wednesday Team Kenkyuusei again. I will need to cancel that win if I win for SKE48.
SDN48: This is what I wanted to see more than anything else while I am visiting. The new "adults only" team from the world of AKB. I have won twice so far. Once for tonight...and once for last night. Yes, THAT was the show I was in such a hurry to see, and i made it. SDN48 on Halloween night!!!!
After the show, the girls all went into the lobby each with a basket of candy. As you left you got to pick a member and go up to her station for Trick-or-Treat, she then gave you candy and you could talk to her for a few moments. Since Meetan wasn't there I had to pick someone else. I thought about going to Chisaki because she is sooo adorable, but I ultimately went with Sayaka Kondo since she speaks English. She was excited that I came all the way from the US to see them, and then just as we started to talk about NYAF the theater manager ushered me away, My time was up!!! But the entire experience was great, and I can't wait for tonight's show!!!
Meetan Ameba Pigg fans!!!!! If you are familiar with Ameba Pigg, that is the little virtual world where all of the Ameba bloggers hang out and chat. And they get to create little characters that walk around in the rooms. I love Ohori Megumi's Ameba Pigg character...kawaii!!!!
Alright, so there is lots to do today, Hopefully this trip will have enough new and unique adventures, so it's not like i am just re-hashing my last trip. Until tomorrow...
CK in California
As a regular purchaser of J-pop goods, I get a little spoiled when I go to Japan. It is so easy to pop over to the local music store and having an endless supply of CDs, DVDs and other great merchandise to choose from. And the J-music web sites do a pretty good job of making that same merchandise available to everyone. Although you have to deal with the shipping costs, which become especially prohibitive when purchasing photobooks.
So I make a habit of price comparing my three preferred sites before making any final purchases. This week I had three CD's in my queue that I was ready to pull the trigger on.
I know I have poked fun at Manoeri quite a bit, but I really like this her current single! She and the H!P Eggs did a great job performing it as the opening act for C-ute and again for Morning Musume when I was in Japan last month. So it brings back a warm memory for me. And I love Omakase! Guardian. Guardians 4 remind me of Athena and Robikerottsu, whose songs I found to be catchy and fun. Ketchup Mania came out with two "Best Of's" One is a 2 CD set, the one I bought is a CD/DVD set. I have no idea what is on the DVD, so I am excited to get it. I would love to see them come out with a DVD of their final concert in Nagoya. Their final show in Tokyo was unbelievably awesome!!!
*Total Price if I were buying them in Japan - Around 5600 Yen.
YesAsia - 6900 Yen. That includes their free shipping, which is a bit slow. What you'll notice is that YesAsia makes up for their less expensive shipping with higher prices on the merchandise. And unlike HMV and CD Japan, I don't believe YesAsia gets the "extras" that the shops in Japan usually have. But I will give them points for that exclusive autographed copy of Ice Creamusume's CD. And they now report on Oricon.
HMV - 6600 Yen. This includes EMS Express shipping. HMV usually does include the extras in the shipments, which is pretty cool. The extras usually include small posters, photocards, store exclusive CD covers. I notice that I have been buying from HMV more and more lately. I wish they had a better "frequent buyer" discount program. But for overall service, HMV is my favorite. If I have any criticism of HMV, it would be that occasionally my orders go on backorder. But it doesn't happen often.
CDJapan - 8900 Yen, including express EMS shipping. Wow! That is so much higher than the other two. Granted, they do ship EMS, which is really fast. But the shipping cost (2500 Yen!), and slightly higher CD prices compared to HMV just killed the deal! The cool thing about CD Japan is they email me quite a few coupons. Even so, it wouldn't have made up the huge difference in this purchase scenario.
So the obvious choice here was HMV. And I notice that I have been making that choice more and more lately. But I always check the three sites, because you never know who might have a good sale. And sometimes Limited Editions sell out earlier on some sites than others.
I hope some of you find this information helpful!
CK in California
As my plane taxied down the runway, the sounds of Pachelbel's Canon filled my headphones. I was overcome with emotion. I often feel this way the moment I leave Narita. A feeling of sentimentality. Suddenly my head filled with visions of wonderful memories...
I had committed myself to "taking it easy" for my last two days in Japan. Heck, I had been running around like a madman for the past week and a half. And that final weekend left me drained and exhausted. So physical rest was what I needed. But mental rest? Well, that was going to need to wait a couple more days...
You see, one little "event" I had planned before this trip had finally come to fruition, just when I thought there was no hope. I had arranged to meet Ohori Megumi. It was to take place Monday evening after AKB48 Team K's performance. This would be the "icing on the cake" of an already wonderful trip. Meeting Meetan, Jeez! Yes I was excited, but I was nervous as hell. What the heck was I going to say to her? I was absolutely sure I would make an unbelievable fool of myself.
I spent the day preparing phrases I could say in Japanese. I had written a letter and had that translated. I thought I had the perfect gift for her. All I needed to do was get through it. I spent the day psyching myself up for this monumental moment. At 4:40pm it was time to go. I was to meet my friend in Akihabara and have a couple of drinks before showtime to calm me down. I arrived at the AKB48 Theater filled with anticipation...
"Ohhhhhh, Christopher-san. No Meetan!" The theater manager and my friend greeted me with this news. No Meetan? I had that feeling while watching her perform on Saturday. I knew she was hurt. I knew she wasn't feeling her best. It was obvious she was in pain. And when I found out the news that Ohori had cancelled her performance that night, I knew it was because of her legs. Normally she is such a "trooper". But she had been diagnosed with a thigh muscle sprain. And at this point she is going to be out at least a week or two.
They offered to let me take a photo with any other Team K member. But I had written the letter to Meetan. I wanted to give that gift to Meetan. As much as I like so many members of Team K, no other member would do that day. So I ended up selling my "photo-op" to someone else. And wrapped up the letter and gift for Ohori to receive later.
At least the pressure was off. I loved getting the chance to see Team K one last time. K5 is such a great show. The skit they did in the beginning of this show was awesome. Asuka kissing Sae!!! I finally saw Akimoto Sayaka perform Mushi no BALLAD, and I think Saka Agari is one of my favorite songs to see in person. And the biggest bonus was the chance to see Ono Erena perform First Love again. It is such a beautiful song, and will be one of the c/w tracks on AKB48's next single.
I will miss the AKB48 Theater. I can't wait to return.
The final day...an accounting of sorts
I must say if I re-planned this trip I don't think I would have made it this hectic. But I don't know what I would have taken out of the itinerary. I saw a total of 10 concert performances. On three different days I saw two performances on the same day. I was at at least one show on 7 of the 11 days I was in Tokyo. I saw...
-AKB48 - 6 times, Team K four times and Teams A and B once each.
-Morning Musume - 2 times, the second time with Manoeri and the DVD recording
-C-ute w/ Manoeri - 1 time, and that makes two times Manoeri
-Ketchup Mania - 1 time, their final Tokyo appearance.
I had two days of shopping and sightseeing (in the rain I might add). I only spent two days, the first and the last relaxing and visiting friends. That didn't leave much time for sleep! As far as the cost of the trip was concerned, it came in at just about the same price as my last trip. I saved money on transportation, and my hotel was about the same. But the extra concerts brought the cost back up. As much as I love the Shinagawa Prince, for my next trip I may look for a slightly lesser priced accommodation.
I spent the final day in the company of the beautiful young lady I met the very first time a came to Japan a year and a half ago. We didn't really "party" like we did on previous trips. It was merely a quiet lunch and nice conversation. The lunch date ended with the two of us waving to each other as I descended down the escalator into Ginza Station. I found myself feeling really emotional in that moment. She is very sweet...
Visions danced in my head as my plane made it's preparations for takeoff. So many wonderful visions set to the beautiful music of Johanne Pachelbel. Watching Murr enjoy her very first Morning Musume concert. Being mesmerized by Tanaka Reina from my 8th row seat. Meeting my new friend Hiro at the AKB48 Theater and celebrating the greatness of AKB48 over many many mugs of Asahi. Enjoying a show in the rafters of Tokyo Koseinenkin Keikan with my Momusu buddy Celestia. The emotional final concert by Ketchup Mania. Ohori Megumi waving and winking at me during her performance. And Naomi waving goodbye to me at Ginza Station...
It was an unforgettable trip. See you soon Japan!
CK in Tokyo California
I am preparing the post for days 8-9, but it has been a little slow going. But I have also been posting a few updates on my other two blogs...
Chuo Dori - From Akihabara Station to the AKB48 Theater...A Walking Tour
The title says it all, walking from the station to the theater in pictures. And there was an unexpected special event going on outside to enjoy as well. Now hopefully no one will get lost finding the place!
Chuo Dori - Chuo Dori in Japan...Hangin' Out at the DQ
A brief review of Team A's performance and my initial thoughts about the crowds in Akihabara during "Golden Week"
I notice something was a little "off" with the lovely Meetan during Saturday's Team K shows.
So please enjoy those in the meantime. I will have an update on my exhausting weekend shortly!
CK in Tokyo
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