January 2009

Knock before entering

By Kazutaka Shimanaka • January 7, 2009

Anyone in search of flaky anecdotes about sex need look no further than the “From the ladies’ magazines” page appearing every week in Shukan …

Roppongi landmark shuts, site to be redeveloped

By CJ • January 5, 2009

A Tokyo landmark in the nightlife quarter of Roppongi shut its doors last week, bringing an end to its reign as one of the capital’s top meeting spots. The owners of the Almond coffee shop at the bustling Roppongi crossing decided last year that it would close from January 3rd.

Off to see the Emperor

By CJ • January 3, 2009

Emperor Akihito yesterday gave his annual New Year’s greeting from a balcony at the Imperial Palace to a reported crowd of 74,000 people. “I am truly delighted that we are able to celebrate a new year together,” said the 75-year-old.