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Look your best this summer with the help of Tokyo’s beauty professionals

AKAI MEDICAL CLINIC

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When the heat hits, hit back—by looking your best. The popular Akai Medical Clinic, with locations in Omotesando and Yokohama, offers a wide range of procedures to rejuvenate your skin to give you a fresh new look for the summer holidays.

The impressive lineup of services at AMC include laser and photo RF treatments, cosmetic dermatology and anti-aging treatment plans, each tailored specifically to the desires and concerns of the patient. Using non-surgical treatments, the clinic can make minor flaws like freckles, large pores, unwanted hair, acne, rosacea, and tattoos vanish.

AMC is run by Dr. Hidemi Akai, a board-certified plastic surgeon who trained at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, and skin-care specialist Dr. Yuko Tani, who is also board-certified. Both have a wealth of experience dealing with foreign clientele and regularly treat patients from abroad, employing some of the latest technologies to help each individual achieve their desired look.

One of AMC’s most popular treatments is Rhytec Portrait Plasma Skin Rejuvenation, a non-laser procedure common in the US but still relatively new to Japan—in fact, it is only available at AMC. Patients suffering from sun damage, large pores, acne scars or wrinkles can revitalize their skin with Rhytec, which employs pulses of ionized inert nitrogen gas to regenerate skin cells beneath the top layer and reveal fresh radiant dermis below. Unlike some laser treatments, Rhytec is suitable for any type of skin. Affirm, another treatment offered by AMC, addresses similar conditions by using a fractional laser to stimulate collagen production, resulting in new skin cells.

Those searching for a more youthful appearance might consider a Silhouette Suture lift, an FDA-approved procedure that offers an alternative to the high cost and lengthy downtime required for full surgery. Another popular option is eyelid surgery, which removes fatty tissue around the eyes to create a younger look, or to add a desirable upper eyelid crease. In addition, AMC offers face lifts, nasal reshaping, liposuction, tummy tucks, and breast augmentation, reduction and lifts.

Overwhelmed by the options? AMC’s staff are there to help you make an informed decision. “There are many clinics with lots of devices, and they will always tell you that theirs is the best,” says Dr. Akai. He advises listening carefully and researching your options. “Before the treatment, learn about the procedure, devices and doctors.”

3F KNK Bldg, 3-5-17 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-5771-4114. Open daily 11am-8pm. Nearest stn: Omotesando, exit A3. See website for details on the Yokohama branch. www.akaiclinic.com, amc@akaiclinic.com

AZABU SKIN CLINIC

Don’t hide your face this summer because of a skin problem. Instead, let Azabu Skin Clinic’s Dr. Kawashima and her bilingual staff help bring out the best in you. Based on their skin condition and lifestyle, patients suffering from acne or acne scars can choose from ablative treatment options such as FGF and TCA, semi-ablative such as Fractional Resurfacing and Growth Factor, or non-ablative options such as chemical peeling, Photofacial and Vbeam laser. Tightening and lifting treatments are also available, including Therma Cool, Polaris, Titan XL and Fractional Resurfacing.

One of the clinic’s newest treatments for acne scarring, as well as anti-aging, is “Growth Factor” Installation, which stimulates cellular growth to help slow the aging process and speed up cellular activity. Ablative methods such as FGF or TCA and non-ablative procedures are other options for acne scars, with the ideal treatment being chosen after careful assessment of an individual patient’s skin condition and lifestyle.

For improving skin blemishes, the clinic’s most popular method at present, according to Dr. Kawashima, is its Photofacial treatment, which lightens skin and revitalizes elasticity in only 20 minutes. Dr. Kawashima is also certified to perform another innovative non-surgical procedure known as Therma Cool. Approved by the FDA, Therma Cool uses radio frequencies to lift and tighten skin. Patients who have tried it just once look like they’ve had a facelift without going under the knife, and the effects have been shown to last for up to two years.

Instant line smoothing with Botox, hyaluronic acid or collagen injections are other popular options. Azabu Skin Clinic’s Botox treatment is performed by an experienced physician, using the latest techniques and employing only Allergen’s US FDA-approved Botox.

To keep abreast of the most recent developments in skin science, Dr. Kawashima attends not only Japanese conferences but those held by the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. She always strives to offer the most effective treatment and introduce the most advanced techniques and information to her patients.

With an all-female staff and English-speaking doctors and receptionists at the ready, Azabu Skin Clinic is committed to the highest quality, the latest technology and a refined sense of beauty. The clinic prides itself on always providing the most appropriate procedure for each client’s unique needs. And with 30 percent of its customers being non-Japanese, the doctors and nurses are experienced with all skin types.
The clinic is currently offering laser hair removal with the popular and effective long-pulsed Alexandrite laser at special campaign prices. So give Azabu Skin Clinic a call and bring out your skin’s beauty!

7F Hagiwara Bldg 1, 1-3-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 0120-005-327 (toll-free). Open Thu-Mon 10am-7pm, Tue-Wed 11am-8pm. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.azabu-skinclinic.com

TIP

This year’s O-bon holiday season falls during the week of August 8-16. Although most folks will be visiting their hometowns, others may be enjoying a summer getaway, so the crowd quotient for all destinations tends to go up exponentially.

Daikanyama Salon Kai

Head down Hachiman Street in the quiet neighborhood of Daikanyama, and you’ll stumble across a one-of-a-kind building. Daikanyama Salon Kai is a nail salon and bar lounge that takes the concept of urban relaxation to new heights.

If you’re looking to show your nails some love, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. The salon offers everything from basic nail art, care and treatments to state-of-the-art gel nails. Even people with naturally weak or deformed nails will be amazed by the difference that six months of regularly repeated care can make. Customers can also choose from a wide selection of nail art designs, running the gamut from French nails to “pop and cute,” “cool and edgy” and anything in between. The salon is especially proud of its French nails’ sharp “smile line,” guaranteed to have you smiling all the way home. And why let the pampering stop there? At Daikanyama Salon Kai, you can have your hands, feet and eyelashes treated at the same time (manicures from ¥5,200, pedicures from ¥10,500).

Let your body relax in a reclining sofa on the top floor, where natural sunlight beams in through large skylight windows. Alternatively, choose one of the private tatami rooms, a popular option amongst men, customers with children, and anyone who just prefers some quiet time alone. The salon also has a bar lounge, where customers can enjoy a quick tipple as their nails dry. It’s open for anyone in search of a sophisticated place for a drink, and the location and luxurious atmosphere make it a perfect urban hideout—and one that’s surprisingly reasonable, at that. Rental space is also available; contact the salon for details.

As a special offer to Metropolis readers, Kai is offering a 10 percent first visit discount on all its services.
8-16 Daikanyama-cho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-5728-3638. Open Fri-Sat & Mon-Wed noon-9pm, Sun 11am-8pm, closed Thu. Bar lounge open Mon-Sat 8pm-4am, closed Sun and hols. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. www.smartnotion.co.jp

NUA

Go sinfully sleek at Nua, Tokyo’s freshest new waxing salon. Offering head-to-toe services by fully qualified therapists, Nua’s unique waxing techniques are not only hygienic, but quick and efficient, providing the smoothest of results.

Nua’s signature “Wicked Chocolate” Hot Wax, is a decadent treatment that looks, feels and smells like the real thing. Your skin will also love the Natura products from Brazil that you can buy at Nua. The Cocoa or Brazil Nut Body Butters and fruity-scented Passion-fruit moisturizers will leave your skin feeling exquisite and have you addicted after just one try!

Order up an all-out with a waxing package (available for both women and men; the hairier sex is always welcome!), and enjoy a fantastic discount on Nua’s already reasonable prices. Pamper yourself further by dropping by on Friday or Saturday, when manicures and pedicures are part of the treatment menu.

Nua’s therapists understand that waxing is highly personal and are committed to not only making you feel comfortable, but ensuring you are well-informed on all aspects of pre-waxing and aftercare.

If you have an iPhone, download the free Nua application on iTunes. You can use it to call, book an appointment, and get directions with one touch!

Dare to bare and book your appointment at Tokyo’s hottest new salon now!

1F Lamial Jinguamae, 4-8-17 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-6804-5285. Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am-7pm. Closed Tue. Nearest station: Omotesando or Meiji-Jingumae. www.nuajapan.com

PLAZA PLASTIC SURGERY

You got your tan, now get your tone—with Dr. Robert Kure, the eminently qualified plastic surgeon who runs Plaza Plastic Surgery. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kure is the former chief resident in plastic surgery and neurosurgery at UCLA. Now head surgeon at Plaza Plastic Surgery in Hiroo, he gives in-depth consultations in English, helping his clients choose from an array of cosmetic surgery treatments, from facelifts to liposuction, as well as walk-in rejuvenating treatments (just ten minutes for a quick dose of Botox or Restylane).

Joining him on the staff is Dr. Mineo Orito, another US Board-certified plastic surgeon who completed his residency in ENT. Combined, the two have nearly 20 years of extensive training and experience in the US. In addition, Dr. Kure, a former neurosurgeon, has more than a decade’s experience using Botox in the US, and employs it not only to remove unwanted frown lines and crow’s feet, but also to treat other disorders ranging from migraine headaches to TMJ pain.

Plaza Plastic Surgery also helps you combat aging through laser therapy, which can treat everything from fine wrinkles to freckles, blotchy spots, rosacea, spider veins and tattoos. The clinic’s state-of-the-art laser even performs on-site lifts and tightening (Genesis and Titan-XL). For more in-depth procedures, they offer outpatient liposuction, micro-fat injection, rhinoplasty, eye surgery, breast augmentation, facelifts and non-cutting procedures for Asian eyes.

For a limited time only, Plaza Plastic Surgery is offering an early summer discount: 50 percent off laser hair removal treatment. Laser tattoo removal is also available.

4F, 5-5-1 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-5475-2345. Open Fri-Wed 10am-7pm (by appointment), closed Thu. Nearest stn: Hiroo. www.plazaclinic.net

TIP

Although crowds for fireworks and festivals in Tokyo generally do not become unruly, the sheer
numbers can give one pause. Make sure you don’t exit the station nearest where the event is located unless
you have a return ticket or a pass—many times, the ticket machines will be closed during the return crush. Also, establish a meeting place in advance in case you get separated from your friends. Last, use the restroom before you leave the station—riverside restrooms have long, long lines, and shop owners will not always let you use theirs when a festival is in progress.

big bangs

Whether you want to join the crowds or beat them, Tokyo has the perfect summer celebration in store

Mob scenes
Asakusa Samba Festival
Now in its 28th year, Asakusa Samba Festival boasts some of the most scintillating costumes and pulsating rhythms this side of Rio de Janeiro. A magnet for locals and tourists alike, the street fest features up to 20 teams in two leagues who compete for top honors. There are also plenty of passistas—dancing girls in brilliantly-colored bikinis and feathery headdresses—to provide additional eye candy. The festival is enormously popular, so stake your spot out early.

Aug 29, 1:30-6pm. Nearest stn: Asakusa or Tawaramachi. www.asakusa-samba.jp

Sumida River Fireworks Festival
The oldest hanabi fest in Japan (with a history dating to 1733), the Sumida River Fireworks Festival puts all others to shame. Some 22,000 shells are exploded at this event, and probably ten times as many spectators show up.

July 25, 7-8:30pm. (Canceled in case of rain.) Tel: 03-5246-1111 (Taito City Office). Nearest stn: Asakusa or Kuramae. http://sumidagawa-hanabi.com

Back to nature
Itako Ayame Matsuri
If you’re not into crowded, over-the-top festivals, join nature lovers for a spectacular view of flowers from all over Japan at the Maekawa Iris Garden in Ibaraki. The Itako Ayame Matsuri promises a stunning array of thousands of white, yellow and purple irises. Other highlights of this festival include traditional music and local dances.

Through June 28. Music and dance performances take place June 14, 21, 28 between 1-2pm. Nearest stn: Itako (JR Kashima line)

Atami Waterfront Fireworks Festival
Just a little over an hour away from Tokyo, the seaside resort town of Atami welcomes visitors with white sand beaches and soothing onsen. For fireworks fans, it has even more: brilliant flowers of the night on selected dates all the way through December. Join the smart set and catch some aerial magic, culminating in the 1,000m “Niagra” shell burst.

Atami Bay. July 26, 30, Aug 5, 9, 20, 23, 29, 8:20-8:50pm; Sept 23, 8:20-8:45pm; Dec 6, 13, 23, 8:20-8:45pm. Nearest stn: Atami. www.atamispa.com/atami_ex/english/index.htm

local treasures
Koenji Awaodori
It is easy to overlook this amazing little festival because it takes place in a relatively low-key area of Tokyo. But the Koenji Awadori deserves to be seen—and participated in—because it’s just plain fun. Spread out over nine routes between Koenji and Shin-Koenji stations, the festival features nearly 200 groups performing variations of “the fool’s dance,” so called because of its simple and slightly tipsy moves. Male and female dancers (adults and children alike) wearing kasa (crescent-shaped straw hats), yukata and tabi, twirl their hands and do a two-step as they constantly shout out “Yatto sa!”

Aug 29-30, 6:30-9:30pm. Nearest stn: JR Koenji or Shin-Koenji. www.koenji-awaodori.com

Adachi Fireworks Festival
First held in 1924 to celebrate the opening of the Senju Shinbashi bridge, the Adachi Fireworks Festival is a popular annual event that’s little-known to foreigners. The setting along the Arakawa River is wide, spacious and grassy—and, some say, close enough to the launching pad to feel the force of the shell bursts. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held the following day.

July 23, 7:30-8:30pm. Arakawa Riverside (between Senju Shinbashi bridge and Nishi-Araibashi bridge). Tel: 03-3880-5853 (Adachi-ku Tourism Exchange Association). Nearest stn: Kosuge (Tobu Line), 15-min walk. www.adachikanko.jp/fireworks

Water WorldS

Beat the heat at these top local water parks and pools

Tokyo Summerland
With rides ranging from the Super Monkey Float to Screamer Water Slides, the whole family will have a cool blast at Tokyo Summerland. Located about an hour from Shinjuku in Akiruno City, this water park also has bowling, golfing and tennis for those who don’t want to get wet.

600 Kamiyochugi, Akiruno City. Tel: 042-558-6511. Open weekdays 10am-5pm, weekends & hols 9am-6pm through July 17, daily 9am-9pm July 18-Aug 31. Admission fees range from ¥1,000-¥4,500. Nearest stn: Ome or Okutama (about 50min from Shinjuku on the Chuo line). www.summerland.co.jp/english/index.html

Showa Kinen Park
The family-friendly Showa Kinen Park is spread over 163 hectares and has 14 pools, slides and waterfalls, including a variety of wave pools. If you’re afraid of the big splash, bounce yourself silly on the park’s huge trampolines—called the “Sea of Clouds” —or rent a bicycle and pedal your way through the picturesque 14km biking course.

3173 Midori-cho, Tachikawa City. Tel: 042-528-1751. Open daily through Oct 31, 9:30am-5pm. Admission: ¥400 (adults), ¥80 (kids 6-15). Nearest stn: Tachikawa. www.showakinenpark.go.jp/english/index.htm

Inage Kaihin Park Pool
This Chiba water park has 13 swimming pools, water slides, waterfalls, wave pools—and just about every other type of aquatic adventure you can imagine. Though located just over a half hour from Tokyo station, it’s relatively little-known by foreigners.

7-1-1- Takahama, Mihama-ku, Chiba. Tel: 043-247-2771. Open daily July 18-Aug 31, 9am-5pm. Admission: ¥1,100 (adults), ¥800 (high school students), ¥400 (elementary/middle school students). Nearest stn: Inage Kaihin (Keiyo line). www.cga.or.jp

Hotel Pools

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
Instead of running all over town trying to escape the heat, take a short walk from Shinjuku station, glide through the Plaza’s marble lobby, and dive into the seventh-floor Sky Pool, where you can lap or lounge your day away from dawn to dusk.

2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-3344-0111. Open daily June 27-Sep 6, 9am-8pm. Admission: Mon-Fri ¥2,000-¥7,000. Nearest stn: Shinjuku or Nishi-Shinjuku. www.keioplaza.com/index.html

ANA Intercontinental Tokyo
Long before there was Roppongi Hills, there was Ark Hills, home to the sleek and beautiful ANA Intercontinental Tokyo. Take a dip in their 20m outdoor swimming pool, or hang with the little ones at the 6m children’s pool. You can also belly up to the poolside snack bar in case all the sunbathing makes you peckish.

1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 3505-1111. Open daily July 1-Sep 6, 7am-8pm. Admission (all day): ¥6,000 (weekdays), ¥8,000 (weekends, hols, Aug 8-16), ¥3,000 (weekdays, after 3pm). Nearest stn: Tameike-sanno. www.anaintercontinental-tokyo.jp/e/

Tokyo Prince Hotel
The Tokyo Prince Hotel’s 25m pool features a view of Tokyo Tower hovering in the distance and fountains and lush greenery nearby. For those with children in tow, there’s also a 6m pool.

3-3-1 Shiba-koen, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3432-1111. Open daily June 27-Sep 6, 10am-6pm. Admission: Mon-Fri ¥3,000 (adults), ¥1,500 (children), Sat-Sun ¥4,000 (adults), ¥2,000 (children). Nearest stn: Onarimon.www.princehotels.com/en/tokyo/

ART, MUSIC & MORE

Read it, touch it, make it, hear it, kick it—try something different during your summer leisure time

If you’re searching for some good reading for your summer holiday, look no further than Book Off. Japan’s largest secondhand bookstore chain, Book Off established an extensive international section last year at its Shirokanedai branch, conveniently located near Meguro. Choose from more than 40,000 titles, predominantly in English, French and other European languages, as well as Chinese and Korean. Book Off Shirokanedai has something for everyone, including a vast range of fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and ESL titles. The prices are competitive, too—as low as ¥200. For the more visually inclined, the shop stocks a mind-blowing variety of manga, CDs, DVDs and video games; there’s even a café space that features regular events such as live music, visiting art exhibitions, coffee/tea seminars and storytelling for children.

4-3-19 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-5475-5696 (shop), 03-5475-5698 (cafe). Open daily 10am-10pm (shop), 8:30am-9pm (cafe). Nearest stn: Shirokanedai, exit 2. www.bookoff.co.jp

Kick up a storm at Bungeling Bay Ebisu, the newest member of the kickboxing gym chain founded by K1 Max competitor Nitta Akeomi.

This friendly Ebisu gym not only offers kickboxing lessons in English from two professionals, Jan Kaszuba (Canada) and Anthony Amelio (US), but also caters to people who just want to learn kickboxing for fitness. English and bilingual classes are available for kids and women, and there’s also bilingual Muay Thai, Ai-do and Pilates. Personal training is also available.

Before or after your workout, kick back in the lobby, where you can play Wii, watch videos or make new friends. The clientele includes everyone from blue collar to white collar workers, high school students and senior citizens. The occasional celebrity drops by, too! So, hit Bungeling Bay Ebisu and kick it with the best of them. Additional locations include Komazawa, Akashima Daira and Ekoda. Everyone is welcome!

3F Glorious Mansions, 4-22-8 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-6905-6573. Open Mon & Thu 2pm-10pm, Tue-Wed & Fri 10am-10pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun & hols 10am-6pm. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.bungelingbay.com

If you plan to spend your summer camped out in your air-conditioned manshon, give your eyes something to feast on other than your new flat-panel TV. Enhance your surroundings with a distinctive piece of Japanese art from Fuji-Torii. A fixture in Omotesando since 1949, this classic shop carries everything from high-end Japanese antiques to contemporary handicrafts, as well as traditional items including lacquerware and scrolls—all made in Japan. Unlike many other souvenir shops that sell “Japanese” goods manufactured in China, all the items at Fuji-Torii are 100 percent “Made in Japan.” Although you can order items by email, Fuji-Torii invites you to come to the store and touch the beautiful artwork on display. You’ll discover the sensual pleasures of bamboo, glass, folding screens and metal, refashioned in uniquely Japanese ways. Celebrities such as Johnny Depp and Cameron Diaz have done so, not to mention the office of the prime minister, which selects official gifts from Fuji-Torii as presents for foreign dignitaries.

6-1-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03-3400-2777. Open Wed-Mon 11am-6pm, closed every Tue and third Mon. Nearest stns: Meiji-Jingumae and Harajuku. www.fuji-torii.com

TIP

Certain attractions at water parks—indeed, the entire park—may close without notice for repair and/or because of bad weather. To avoid disappointment, call ahead before making the trek.

Instead of spending your summer tweeting and texting, why not do something really creative with your hands? Enroll in Eriko Kuroda’s Japanese pottery class—and discover the deeper meaning of “the Japanese heart.”

Eriko began her career as a ceramicist ten years ago while living in Argentina, and has practiced her craft in Miami, San Diego and London. After returning to Tokyo four years ago, she began her own pottery school specifically with foreigners in mind. But her lessons aren’t just about molding clay; they’re also about Japanese history, culture and tradition. Eriko believes that by learning the art of making pottery, students can also learn about Japan from an angle they may never have otherwise known.

For three days each week, Eriko opens her home in Oimachi, where up to six students can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with tea and coffee while making pottery. She also conducts a larger workshop in Daikanyama. A recent session with Metropolis staffers confirms that the lessons are informative, easy and fun, with a lot of laughs along the way. It’s like visiting an old friend’s home.

The ideal way to learn about the workshop is to sign up for a trial lesson. As a special offer to Metropolis readers, Kuroda is discounting her usual ¥5,000 trial lesson to only ¥4,000 through the end of June.

3-26-13 Oi, Shinagawa-ku. Tel: 070-5424-1466. Email: erigooo13@hotmail.com. Nearest stn: Oimachi. www.pottery-tokyo.jp

Summer is the time to bare as much as you dare. One way to get tongues wagging is with a new tattoo from Yamato Bonten, an English-speaking tattoo artist who welcomes foreign customers.

Inking skin since 1998, he learned tattooing from the renowned Bonten 2. Yamato Bonten provides all styles of quality tattoos, including traditional Japanese irezumi as well as original designs, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere at his Asagaya studio. All tattooing equipment is fully sterilized with an autoclave, and each pack of tattooing needles is opened directly in front of the customer.

www.yamatobonten.net(Japanese) and www.irezumi.info (English).

1-17 Asagaya-Minami, Suginami-ku. Tel 03-3316-0648. Email: mail@irezumi.info. Nearest stn: Asagaya or Minami-Asagaya.

Formed in 1999 by Tasmanian singer/songwriter Joey Dee and American guitarist/vocalist Pall Volta, The Sign is an acoustic guitar duo that’s collected awards from the Australian Songwriters Association and the Billboard Songwriting Contest. Their unique musical style was inspired by a wide range of artists, including Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, The Beatles and Joan Baez.

The Sign kicks off its Japan Tour on June 14 at Ebisu’s What The Dickens, headlining the Amnesty International benefit concert presented by AITEN (Amnesty International Tokyo English Network). Tickets are just ¥1,000, and all proceeds will be donated to the human rights NGO.

Opening for The Sign for the remainder of the tour is singer Nikki Matsumoto who spent 14 years in Los Angeles playing original music with his own rock band. Now back in Japan, he and his group have been honing a distinctive style of Asian folk-rock, using traditional acoustic instruments like the two-string Chinese fiddle known as the erhu.

Following their gig at What The Dickens, The Sign will play additional shows in Tokyo, Chiba and Osaka. Their performances will be held at live houses like Outbreak in Yotsuya (June 19), Mission’s in Koenji (June 17 & 25) and intimate cafés like Ben’s Café in Takadanobaba (June 22 & 29), and several of the shows will be free of charge.

For more information, call JCI at 03-5404-8475 (weekdays) or 03-3815-4877 (weekends). Nikki Matsumoto’s website: www.jc-i.jp/nikki

With air conditioners blasting and convenience stores sucking up energy 24/7, summer is the best time to go green—or retro. S.A.I. Recycle helps you keep it real with its newly opened secondhand store, S.A.I. Works Gallery. Go on a scavenger hunt and discover designer, antique and luxury goodies, not to mention good ol’ junk! Mainly featuring furniture and home electronics, S.A.I. Works Gallery is confident you’ll find something you’ll want to give a second life to. The shop also offers furniture rental and interior decorating services for short-term foreign residents. For more information, contact the Gallery’s appropriately-named manager, Funk Fumiya.

1-10-7 Shirokane, Minato-ku. Open daily noon-8pm. Tel: 0120-318-420. Nearest stn: Shirokane-Takanawa. http://sai-works.com

SUMMER FUN

Cool ways to beat the heat

Aloha Surf Design’s guiding philosophy is this: surfing should be fun for everyone, regardless of age or ability. With that in mind, they’ll be opening a new shop on Saturday, July 4, on beautiful Motosuka Beach, Japan’s newest surfing hotspot. A direct one-hour train or bus ride from Tokyo station, Motosuka is located near the popular swimming and surfing destination of Kujukuri-hama in Chiba, which, at 66km, is the second longest beach in Japan.

The new Aloha Surf Design shop will carry all the essential surfing gear, including surfboards, bodyboards and wetsuits; beach chairs, umbrellas and snorkeling sets are available for rent. Interested in a surfing lesson? Experienced, passionate and bilingual instructors are on hand to conduct lessons for all levels. No matter what your ability, the staff will provide you with a professional and memorable beach and surf experience.

Even if you don’t feel like riding the waves, you can still stop by and check out Aloha Surf Design’s unique clothing collection, featuring local Japanese and French designers. Or just hang out in their café space—the only wireless spot in Motosuka—and enjoy a healthy glass of fruit juice while watching surf videos.

To celebrate their grand opening, Aloha Surf Design will be throwing a big party, with steep discounts and special events all day long. So throw on your swimsuit, get some friends together, and enjoy the ultimate surfing experience on Motosuka beach. A special present awaits those who bring a copy of Metropolis!

3841-155 Motosuka, Sanmu City, Chiba. Tel: 0475-84-3841, fax: 0475-84-3842. Open daily 7am-7pm. Nearest stn: Naruto. From station, take public bus to Motosuka Beach (about 20 min). Email natacha@abs-plaza.com. www.alohasurfdesigns.com

The Tokyo Bay Great Fireworks Cruise offers a rare opportunity to see one of Tokyo’s most spectacular events in an up-close and personal way. Limited to only 30 people, the cruise sails elegantly beneath the bursting shells while guests enjoy a meal and drinks out on the deck. You’ll actually have a clear view of the fireworks’ launching pad in Tokyo Bay—something few people ever get to see. Included in the ticket price is the embarkation fee, a full Italian buffet, and free drinks (draft beer, wine, whisky, cocktails and soft drinks). Don’t miss your chance for a uniquely thrilling experience—make your reservation as soon as possible!

Aug 8, 5-9:30pm. Tickets: ¥31,500 adults, ¥21,000 children under 12.

In the event of bad weather, the cruise will take place Sunday, Aug 9. Note: if the fireworks display is canceled because of bad weather, your entire ticket fee will be refunded.

The cruise departs from the Etchujima Water Bus Terminal near Etchujima station on the JR Keiyo line. For reservations, call 03-3643-3642 (English not available). For more details, email info@hbclub.jp. www.hbclub.jp

C’mon, admit it: you’ve always wanted to climb Mt. Fuji. Well, now’s your chance. Conquer Japan’s iconic peak this summer with the help of H.I.S. Experience Japan (HEJ), a travel agency that specializes in providing cultural excursions to international visitors. HEJ’s two-day Mt. Fuji tours depart on July 11, 20, 27 and August 3, 7, 16, 21, 29. To ensure you don’t miss a thing, an English-speaking mountaineer certified by the City of Fuji Yoshida, as well as an English-speaking tour conductor, will join you on your journey.

On Day 1, a chartered bus will take you to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station (altitude 2,300m). After an hour lunch break and acclimatization, you will climb to a mountain hut at the 7th Station (2,900m), where you will have a meal and a short rest. Around midnight, the climb will resume till you reach the summit—where, weather permitting, you’ll be able to see the goraiko (sunrise).

Keep in mind that even with the help of two friendly staff members, the ascent is a tough one. The only source of light comes from the lamps that climbers wear on their headgear, plus the moon and stars (if the sky is clear). Also, it gets quite cold near the summit (especially when it rains), with the temperature being about 20 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain. If the weather is in your favor, all the effort will be rewarded with a spectacular summit view. But even if there is no view, you will be one of the few and proud who can tell everyone you made it to the top of Mt. Fuji. And before returning to Tokyo, you can enjoy a well-deserved stop at an onsen to soak those tired muscles.

For reservations or inquiries, contact H.I.S. Experience Japan at 03-5322-8988 or see http://hisexperience.jp.

Instead of just sitting on a stationary exercise bike staring at a concrete wall this summer, why not hop on a real bicycle and tour around Tokyo instead? The Tokyo Great Cycling Tour offers two excursions around the city, both of which last about six hours. The first departs from the Marunouchi Hotel near Tokyo station on Saturdays and takes riders to Odaiba and back. The second leaves every Sunday from the Hibiya exit of JR Shimbashi station. Tickets are ¥10,000, which includes bike rental, insurance and a bento.

This summer, Tokyo Great Cycling Tour is offering additional weekday rides from July 21 through September 4. The Morning Ride visits the Tsukiji fish market for the famous tuna auction and a fresh-off-the-boat sushi breakfast, then continues through the business districts of Nihombashi and Otemachi, and finally round to the Imperial Palace. The tour departs at 5:30am from JR Shimbashi station, returning at 8:30am. Tickets are ¥3,000, not including breakfast.

The Evening Ride, meanwhile, takes cyclists on a waterfront ride from Shimbashi to Takeshiba and Hinode pier, then to Tokyo Tower. It departs at 6:30pm from JR Shimbashi Station, returning at 8pm. Tickets are ¥3,000. Afterwards, if enough members are interested, a trip to a local pub for some brews can be organized.

For more information call 03-4590-2995 or see www.tokyocycling.jp/summer

TIP

Hotel pools are glamorous and open to the public, but expensive. If you want to swim on the cheap, there are numerous public pools in Tokyo. Check with your ward office for the one closest to you.

PLAY OR STAY

Looking for a summer escape? Book a spot at these top hotels and guesthouses

Located within walking distance of Ueno’s great museums and Akihabara’s electronic playground, the comfortable Hotel Edoya is the ideal accommodation for your out-of-town guests. The helpful staff are happy to give advice about all of Tokyo’s popular sightseeing spots, as well as tips on which ones are most enjoyable and affordable.

The Edoya offers visitors an authentic “Japanese hotel” experience, complete with tatami floors and futon beds—at extremely reasonable prices. Rooms start at just ¥5,890 for a single and ¥8,540 for a double. After a busy day touring the city, guests can enjoy the top-floor sauna and onsen (separate facilities for men and women), as well as an open-air bath and spacious relaxation room.

Reservations can be made by email (reserve@hoteledoya.com), and all rates are available on the website. A complimentary breakfast (Japanese or Western) is included in the room charge.

3-20-3 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku. Tel:03-3833-8751. Nearest stn: Ochanomizu. www.hoteledoya.com

An authentic Japanese-style hotel near lovely Imaihama Beach in the Izu area of Shizuoka, Imai-so has been visited by the likes of the Japanese royal family and foreign celebrities. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Izu Nanashima island from every room. With eye-catching modern design, high-quality service and an enviable location, Imaiso will leave you with a peaceful feeling of satisfaction.

The hotel is currently offering a special summer promotion: from June 15-July 17 and August 19-September 18, room rates are just ¥18,000 per person (Sunday-Friday) and ¥21,000/person on Saturdays and holiday eves. These rates include free dinner and breakfast, as well as consumption tax.

For reservations, contact the Tokyo office (ask for Mr. Kokubo). Tel: 03-5488-1010. Mobile: 080-3420-2540. Fax: 03-3443-9550. Email: j-kokubo@tokaikanko.co.jp. See www.imaiso.jp/eng for more information.

Since opening in 1907, the Nanzanso hotel has been a favorite leisure destination for artists and celebrities. Its famous guests have included Nobel Prize-winning writer Yasunari Kawabata and famed American singer/songwriter Rickie Lee Jones. Located in the Izu-Nagaoka onsen region, Nanzan-so features guest cottages in the traditional Sukiya style of architecture and offers three types of hot springs—a rock bath, open-air bath and a “Mt. Fuji view” bath.

As a special summertime promotion, the hotel is offering rooms for just ¥4,500 per person (Sunday-Friday) and ¥5,500 per person (Saturdays and holiday eves). These rates include consumption tax and a light breakfast, and are available June 15-July 17 and August 19-September 30.

For reservations, contact the Tokyo office (ask for Mr. Kokubo). Tel: 03-5488-1010. Mobile: 080-3420-2540. Fax: 03-3443-9550. Email: j-kokubo@tokaikanko.co.jp

If you have guests coming to Tokyo for the summer holidays—or even if you just need a place to stay—be sure to check out Suzukiya Guesthouse. This recently renovated accommodation boasts friendly staff and a can’t-be-beat location providing easy access to the major sightseeing spots around Asakusa.

Unlike most guesthouses, Suzukiya offers attractive deals on long-term accommodation. This June and July, Metropolis readers who stay at least three months receive 50 percent off the first month’s rent, and those staying six months or longer get the first two months half-price.

The owner, Mr. Suzuki, runs a soba restaurant and also belongs to a sumo fan club. So who knows—you might be lucky enough to watch sumo champion Asashoryu at his morning practice. And instead of fighting for space with the massive crowds at the Sumida River fireworks this summer, you and your friends can enjoy the fantastic view from Suzukiya Guesthouse’s roof.

Monthly rates range from ¥38,000-¥40,000 for a shared room to ¥45,000-¥72,000 for a single. Suzukiya Guesthouse also offers ladies-only dormitories for ¥33,000 a month.

1-8-5 Higashi-Komagata, Sumida-ku. Nearest stn: Ryogoku or Asakusa. Tel: 090-2310-1381 (2pm-5pm). For more details, see http://edo28-suzukiya.com/house/En/index.html or email house@edo28-suzukiya.com

KIDS’ CORNER

Learning comes naturally at PAL International School, with a unique program based on the cross-cultural experiences of its seasoned teachers. The PAL curriculum has been created by combining aspects of both international and Japanese teaching methods. With a focus on developing social and intellectual capacity through active and hands-on learning, PAL’s interactive classroom environments challenge children by encouraging in-depth exploration and discovery. Careful attention is paid to international educational research and development to ensure that the PAL program is in keeping with the times.

PAL strives to meet each child’s needs in all areas—intellectual, social, emotional, cultural and physical—by exposing them to foreign languages, computers, problem-solving skills, project approach procedures, mathematics and comprehensive literacy skills. A small school with a low teacher-to-student ratio that allows each child to feel at-home, understood and loved, PAL, together with teachers, staff and parents, works at building the foundation for its young students to be lifelong learners.

PAL offers education and care for children from six months through kindergarten, as well as stimulating after-school programs and a summer intensive. A hot lunch is offered at the school several times a week.

The upcoming summer intensive promises to be an amazing experience for young students. Classes being offered include: Art Appreciation (June 29– July 3): Paint, pencils, paper, and clay will be used to make students’ masterpieces; Summer Festivals Around the World (July 6-10): “Traveling” around the world to celebrate summer festivals; Cooking and Baking (July 13-17): A tasty treat will be created every day; Mystery and Magic (July 20-24): Students will gather clues and solve mysteries; Attention: detectives needed! Science Lab (July 27-31): Students will stir up some crazy concoctions and learn unique scientific facts; Water Program (August 3-7): Outdoor water play and activities; Staging, Drama and Film (August 10-14): Students will learn acting, facial expressions and vocal interpretation; Literature (August 17-21): Emerging readers will explore many exciting stories.

Spaces fill fast so enroll today!

3-8-18 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-5770-8166. Fax: 03-5770-8167. Email: info@pal-school.com. www.pal-school.com