Ome—a city located in western Tokyo that's about an hour's train ride from the populous Shinjuku. It's a place enjoyed by many for its hiking and river swimming locales, as well as its architecture, in which one can still feel the influences of Japan's Edo period, and kindness of the locals.   MATINOEKI OUME, an Ome-based company, recently launched its "Made in OME" project which aims to revitalise the city. The project will create a new kind of Ome through the eyes of the millennial generation. Its goal is to polish and refine the appealing aspects of Ome to offer up new tourism opportunities while bringing in new fans to the city. Made in OME's first step towards that is teaming up with DJ and YouTuber Yuna Yabe and illustrator and streamer MIOCHIN, two models signed to ASOBISYSTEM who will represent the millennial generation as the navigators of this journey as they participate in workshops with local producers and manufacturers, developing a variety of products such as sweets made with ingredients from Ome, like baumkuchen and chocolate rolls, and more.   You can catch their activity live over on MIOCHIN's official Instagram page. Visit Made in OME's official website below for more details.

Yuna Yabe

MIOCHIN

The two of them will host a free 'monitor tour' on February 21, 2021. These monitor tours aim to have people developing a strong relationship with new products from Ome. Participants will learn about the history and culture of Ome via local producers and manufacturers with products such as sake and indigo dyeing. Made in OME plants to expand their range of tourist monitor tours in the future. Local Ome residents will also be invited to the tour in the evening of the same day. Learn all there is to know about Ome at Made in OME's website which is available in English, Japanese, and Chinese.

Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture and the largest city in Japan's Tohoku region, is a two-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo. The city has earned the nickname Mori no Miyako, or 'City of Trees,' due to the abundant rows of zelkova trees lining many of its streets. It bustles with charm and is enjoyed by locals and tourists for its history, sights, and events, such as its associations with the Japanese regional ruler Date Masamune, the famous Sendai Tanabata Festival, and more. However, there are many other incredible locations that Sendai has to offer that aren't as well known as the popular sites, so today we are joined by Etsuna who is giving us the latest in what can be found in the city.  

Along The Coast

The coast of Sendai was struck by a tsunami when the Great East Japan Earthquake struck back on in March 2011. Today, the area is continuing its re-development efforts. New facilities have and are being built, including plenty of new spots the area never had before. Sendai is home to a memorial hall for remembering those affected during the disaster which is a must-visit if travelling to Sendai.  

Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium

Feel the sea breeze and ocean water of Tohoku against your skin Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium opened in 2015 as the larrgest aquarium in the Tohoku region. The first floor is themed on the waters of Tohoku where many rare aquatic species from the Sanriku Coast are housed. The second floor is centred on sea creatures found in the oceans around the world such as tropical fish, jellyfish, marine mammals, and other familiar faces.   Visitors can even meet ascidians there which are famous in the Sanriku Coast. The large fish tanks let in a lot of natural light, recreating the beauty of the Sanriku sea. There's also a special spot where you can get up close to some of the fish! The aquarium offers an optional program where visitors can feed the penguins. "It's a pretty big aquarium," said Etsuna. "It was great to see all of the different things they have on display. I had a lot of fun feeding the penguins too!"   Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium Address: 4-6 Nakano, Miyagino-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi Prefecture Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (May change depending ont he season) No Fixed Holidays TEL: 022-355-2222 Access: 10-minutes by shuttle bus (free ride) from JR Nakanosakae Station Price: Adults ¥2,200 / Seniors, High School and Junior High School Children ¥1,600 / Elementary School Children ¥1,100 / Infants ¥600 (All Tax-Inclusive) Official Website: http://www.uminomori.jp/umino/  

Sendai Chuooroshiuri Market

Fresh fish at an affordable price Sendai Chuooroshiuri Market is like the kitchen of Sendai. The food shops there were opened by locals. Visitors will find many different bites to eat when visiting. Etsuna visited Sushi Yoshi, a restaurant in the area so popular that there's always a line. The restaurant's name, Sushi Yoshi, suggests that it's a sushi restaurant, but they actually serve common delicacies like rice bowls and set meals.

Maguro Sanshudon | ¥1,500

This rice bowl contains three kinds of maguro tuna, so much in fact that you can't even see the rice!

"You can enjoy delicious fresh fish at a reasonable price. You might have to wait in line, but it's totally worth it!"    Sushi Yoshi Address: 4-3-1 Oroshimachi, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 6:30-13:30 Closed: Wednesdays and Sundays TEL: 022-232-8042 Access: 20-minutes by bus from Sendai Station  

Sendai 3/11 Memorial Community Center

Learn the story of the disaster Inside Arai Station, which is the last stop on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, you can find the Sendai 3/11 Memorial Community Center where visitors can learn all about how the Great East Japan Earthquake affected Sendai through the exhibition rooms and in the communal space. The first floor features a panel with a 3D map of how the tsunami inundated the region as a result of the earthquake. Up on the second floor is a permanent exhibition showcasing the restoration and restoration efforts of the community as well as real photos from around the time of the disaster. There are also staff members there who survived the disaster and can describe their experiences as well as current issues facing Sendai. "I got teary when the speaker told me about the hardships they faced at that time," explains Etsuna. "The people of Sendai are living their lives looking forward, and I have a lot of respect for them."   Sendai 3/11 Memorial Community Center Address: Kutsugata-85 Arai, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if the Monday falls on a public holiday) / Day after public holiday / New Year Holidays TEL: 022-390-9022 Access: Arai Station Entry: Free Official Website: http://sendai311-memorial.jp 

Sendai Arahama Elementary School

The school that still stands after the earthquake disaster On the day of the Tohoku earthquake, many local residents fled to Sendai Arahama Elementary School where 320 people were trapped including the evacuees, children, and teachers, before managing to escape safely to the roof. The school is now open as a memorial to preserve the memories of those who survived. The tsunami that struck after the earthquake made it to the second floor of the school. These first two floors have been kept untouched and are as they were on the day. There are photos as well as video footage exhibited on the fourth floor where the tsunami didn't reach. From the school building's roof you can gaze at the peaceful coastline. "Seeing the place that was hit by the tsunami up close has really changed my outlook on life. There is green in the surrounding area. I felt life budding all around."   Sendai Arahama Elementary School Address: Shinborihata-32-1 Arahama, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 9:30-16:00 Closed: Mondays / Every 4th Thursday of the month / New Year Holidays TEL: 022-355-861 Access: 15-minutes by bus from Arai Station Entry: Free  

Akiu Area

Akiu Onsen is a spa town known to locals as the 'living room' of Sendai. It's a 30-50 minute bus ride from Sendai Station. It has been nicknamed one of Japan's Three Baths alongside Bessho Onsen and Nozawa Onsen, both in Nagano Prefecture. It's another place that Date Masamune frequented many times.  

Rairaikyo Gorge

A stroll along the gorge path Rairaikyo Gorge gets its name from the abundance of enormous rocks that have been eroded by the Natori River and given them strange shapes. The Kanji 'rai' used in the gorge's name literally means 'many rocks.' The gorge is home to a 1-km path that people can walk along and soak up the incredible natural environment that offers sights to behold throughout the year. From late October to mid November, when the autumn leaves are in bloom, the area is also lit up in the evenings. The heart-shaped hollow in the rocks as pictured above is considered a sacred place for couples. Taking a stroll along the path one sees maple trees aplenty. Visiting during the height of autumn graces you with a colourful scene you wouldn't want to miss. "I feel healed having gotten to take a leisurely stroll through nature," explained Etsuna. "The rocks of Akiu have some interesting shapes."   Rairaikyo Gorge Address: Akiumachi Yumoto, Taihaku Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Access: Approx. 40 minutes by bus from Sendai Station  

Akiu-sha

A stylish, old fashioned cafe in the hot spring town When taking a trip to Akiu Onsen, one hot spot that's a must-visit is Akiu-sha, a restaurant that was renovated from an old private farm house from the Edo Period. During the day it serves lunch food and drinks while in the evenings it's used for events like private parties. There's an open garden at the site which is sometimes used for weddings. At the back are vegetable plots tended to by the restaurant.

Akiu-sha Lunch | ¥1,280 (Before Tax)

The Akiu-sha Lunch is made with fresh vegetables grown in both their own plot as well as from around Akiu.

Akiu Saiseki Chocolate | ¥850 (Before Tax)

A white chocolate dessert inspired by the unique rocks of Akiu. Customers can use the little wooden hammer to break apart the dessert to create a rubble of chocolate. The inside of the restaurant is spacious with towering beams holding it up. "The vegetables are so fresh, I couldn't believe how tasty they were! This flavour is unique to this place."   Akiu-sha Address: Nozoki-9-4 Akiumachi Yumoto, Taihaku Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 11:00-17:00 (Last Food Orders 14:30 / Cafe Last Orders 16:00) Closed: Tuesdays TEL: 022-724-7767 (Bookings not possible) Access: 50-minutes by bus from Sendai Station Official Website: http://akiuwinery.co.jp  

Akiu Winery

Taste and compare different original wines Akiu Winery in Akiu Onsen was the first winery to open in Sendai. It's home to an enormous grape field, and inside is the brewery itself as well as a dining area and shop. They serve an array of original wines. As well as originals, Akiu Winery also stocks famous wines from Sendai.

Merlot Red Wine 2018 (Sample) | Koshu Sur Lie 2019 (750ml) ¥2,300 | Steuben Rosé 2019 (750ml) ¥2,000 (All Before Tax)

Akiu Winery's line-up of wines are famous in Sendai. At the back of the winery is the expansive grape field.

Craft Grill | ¥1,330

At the outdoor terrace you can enjoy a BBQ grill together with a glass of wine. "The sight of the grape field made me feel like I was in France. You can enjoy a BBQ too so I definitely want people to come here!”   Akiu Winery Address: Biwaharanishi-6, Akiumachi Yumoto, Taihaku Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Official Website: http://akiuwinery.co.jp

Akiu Great Falls

The Three Great Waterfalls of Japan Akiu Great Falls is considered one of Japan's three most famous waterfalls alongside Kegon Falls in Tochigi Prefecture and Nachi Falls in Wakayama Prefecture. It's about 15-minutes by car downstream from Akiu Onsen and is also accessible by bus. They have a retro shop at the entrance of the waterfall. Also located next to the waterfall is Akiu-Otaki Fudoson, a temple surrounded by dense green foliage and enormous gingko trees. "Being in nature really relaxed me and took away the day's stress! It's quite a walk to the waterfall basin so you get plenty of exercise too."   Akiu Great Falls Address: Otaki Akiumachi Baba, Taihaku Ward, Sendai, Miyagi TEL: 022-398-2323 (Akiu Onsen Tourist Information Center) Access: 50-minutes by bus from Sendai Station (Running on weekends and public holidays only)  

Around Sendai Station

Sendai Station can be considered as the doorstep of Japan's Tohoku region. It of course runs JR East's Tohoku Shinkansen bullet trains as well as operates Sendai Subway services and buses. The area around the station is great for finding tasty local delicacies, shopping, and souvenir-buying.  

WANOSHOKU NIKAI

Seri-nabe is Sendai's new specialty food If you're asked to give an example of a famous speciality food product from Sendai, chances are people will jump straight to the city's gyutan beef tongue, but what has been the talk of the town recently is seri-nabe. Seri-nabe is a type of hotpot cooked with Japanese parsley ('seri') - one of Japan's seven spring flowers. Miyagi Prefecture boasts as a top class producer of Japanese parsley. The hotpot is served in a simple duck broth which allows the fragrance of the parsley to come through. "I can't get enough of the crunchy texture of the [parsley] roots! It was delicious, I had a refreshing soy sauce soup finished with ramen."   WASHOKU NIKAI Address: 2-5-15 Ichibanchō, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 17:00-Midnight No Fixed Holidays TEL: 022-224-6040  

Iroha Yokocho

Bar crawl deep into the back streets The side streets of the Sunmall Ichibancho arcade have a retro Japanese vibe to them, packed full of shops that make one feel nostalgic. The long, winding alleys feature plenty of Instagram-worthy spots. "This is a great spot for enjoying a bar crawl, just having a light drink and then moving onto the next place. Even if you don't drink there's tasty food to enjoy too!"   Iroha Yokocho Address: 2-3-28 Ichibancho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi TEL: 022-223-3151

S-PAL Sendai

A fashion mall connected to the station S-PAL is a fashion mall directly connected to Sendai Station, home to apparel stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, sundry sellers, and more. Here are some sundry stores selling a variety of miscellaneous items perfect as souvenir purchases.   Nakagawa Masashichi This is an old-time chain that has been around for 300 years. Specialising in lifestyle goods, this S-PAL branch is the only one in all of Tohoku. Its interior design has a retro feel to it with shelves and tables piled with cute bits and bobs.

Kaya-ori Tea Towel | ¥440 (Tax Included)

A specialty product of Tohoku, this tea towel is made using the traditional weaving technique of kaya-ori. Exclusive to Tohoku.   IORI IORI is another shop you'll only find in the Tohoku area. They sell imabari towels which are perfect as gifts to yourself or another.

Handkerchiefs | ¥600 Each (Tax Included)〜

These handkerchiefs are only sold in Sendai and feature a variety of embroidered motifs like the windsocks of the Sendai Tanabata Festival, kokeshi dolls, the helmet of Date Masamune, and more.   KANEIRI STANDARD STORE A select shop stocking stationery and other trinkets that promote the culture and craftsmanship of Tohoku. This store is right next to Sendai Station and has plenty of souvenir-worthy items, so it's absolutely worth a visit. As well as lifestyle goods, the store also sells items made in Miyagi, like kokeshi dolls.

Matsukawa Daruma | ¥1,300 (Before Tax)

These Matsukawa Daruma are super cute, especially the blue one which is inspired by the Sendai Domain, also known as the Date Domain.   Dagashiya Zousan Dagashiya Zousan sells old-time Japanese sweets and confections, stocked with many popular treats from Tohoku adored by both kids and adults alike. The traditional sweets are all packed together along the shelves and up the walls.  

The popular souvenir shops of Sendai

You can't go home after a fun trip without picking up a souvenir, so here's s line-up of shops that have been surging in popularity recently in Sendai, all of which sell Sendai-specific items.   Drinkable zunda at Agurienomori Mitte

Drinkable Zunda | ¥370 (Before Tax)

Zunda are mashed green soybeans boiled and turned into a sweet paste. They are also a local delicacy. Zunda mochi are very famous, but zunda beverages are popular too. This shop sells a variety of zunda treats to pick from.   Bamboo grass kamaboko at Kanezaki-ya There are many makers of sasa-kamaboko, or bamboo grass fish paste, but what makes Kanezaki-ya's so great is how it retains the original umami flavour and plump texture of the fish.   Zaou cheese at Tohoku Meguri Irotoiro

Zaou Cream Cheese, Vanilla Cream Spread | ¥557 Each (Before Tax)

A food select shop selling a range of different ingredients. Their kaou cheese with sweet vanilla is their most popular item. "It's a fashion mall so of course they sell clothes, but they had a bunch of other stuff too, everything from traditional Japanese daruma to food. I really recommend S-PAL Sendai if you're searching for souvenirs!"   S-PAL Sendai Address: 1-1-1 Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Restaurant wing open 11:00-22:00) No Fixed Holidays TEL: 022-267-2111 Access: Connected directly to Sendai Station Official Website: https://www.s-pal.jp/sendai/    "Sendai looking and progressing into the future as it overcomes the effects of the disaster. It's a place with amazing food, fun shops, and is teeming with nature. If you've never been to Sendai before, then be sure to visit and have fun!"

A pop-up event for the hugely popular TV anime series Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World is set to open at Narita Anime Deck—which is located on the Main Building second floor of Narita International Airport Terminal 2—for a limited time from October 9, 2020.   The event will include a themed menu, pre-sales on Re:Zero merchandise, and more. The first week of the event will introduce a booking-only system as a precaution against COVID-19. Bookings for the cafe will run from October 9-15 and for the merchandise store from October 13-19.  

Re:Zero Entertainment Cafe

Running: October 9, 2020 - January 11, 2021

Fans of Re:Zero can look forward to tucking into a menu of themed food, drinks, and desserts, including a traditional Japanese plate topped with Emilia, Rem, and Ram wafer cakes, as well as super spicy Natsuki and Subaru black noodles, and more. Customers who order from the menu will receive a free Re:Zero coaster and lunch mat. These are limited in stock, and there are two sets of designs to get your hands on: the first will be available from October 9 and the second from November 27. And for the first four days that the cafe is open, from October 9-12, they will serve up a special matcha mont blanc cake based on the Re:Zero character Betelgeuse. Only 30 will be served per day.  

Merchandise Shop

Running: October 13, 2020 - December 14, 2020

Fans can get their hands on a merchandise pre-sales featuring items designed for the event itself. The theme of the line-up is "Isekai Inn" and includes pins, acrylic stands, mini folding screens, charms, and more.

Bonus Items

But that's not all. Customers who spend over ¥3,500 (tax included) on the merchandise in one transaction will receive one of the above postcards.   The merchandise sold at the pop-up event will also be sold at KADOKAWA's Da Vinci bookshop which is set to open inside Tokorozawa Sakura Town on November 6.

ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM officially opened permanently in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, on August 28, 2020. Before that, it was simply an exhibition that was held around Tokyo which brought together over 10 million visitors throughout its run, exhibiting goldfish in a variety of breathtaking ways.   We visited ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM together with Japanese model Yuna Yabe to take a deeper dive into what lies within those doors. ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM can be found in Nihonbashi, an area of which served as one of many places where ART AQUARIUM previously held its exhibitions. Nihonbashi is steeped in tradition and is actually the place where Japan's goldfish culture spawned from during the Edo Period.   ART AQUARIUM was conceived and is managed by Hidetomo Kimura, an author and general producer. It's a collaboration between art, design, and entertainment, all fused into an aquarium to create a completely unique experience. The museum has taken what was once a pop-up exhibition and expanded it many-fold, housing close around 30,000 goldfish. The aquarium is divided into different areas each with its own unique theme that plunges visitors into a multitude of fantastical worlds. One of the must-sees when visiting ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM is the masterful Oiran works—giant goldfish bowls as pictured above—which are inspired by the red light district of the Edo Period. Perhaps the most striking and gorgeous part of the Edo Period was Hanamachi, the districts where geisha worked. The high-ranking courtesans, known as Oiran, engaged in what was known as the Oiran Dochu, or procession of the courtesans, and this too has been captured at the museum in the designs of the beautiful fish tanks in this area. Another unmissable part when visiting the aquarium are the Goldfish Shrines, towering fish tanks lined up like a column of water trees which make for an incredible viewing experience. The lighting and music is ever-changing, and so transports visitors into a completely different realm every time. It can be one way one moment, and in the next instant it changes entirely. From the second floor you can overlook the fish shrines with dynamic 3D visuals in the background. These visuals change depending on the season, so you'll be in for a treat however many times you visit. There are countless works of goldfish art scattered throughout the aquarium—too many to count, so your eyes will never grow tired.

Suigian Lounge - Old Pine Tree Area

ART AQUARMIUM MUSEUM even has its own dining lounge where guests can enjoy a meal while gazing at a painting of old pine trees, a cultural property of the Edo Period said to have been painted by those of the Kano school of Japanese painting. Traditional performances are also carried out on the stage for diners.

These drinks are ¥1,200 each (before tax)

Every five days, a new line-up of cocktails is served at Suigian Lounge. Japan used to be divided into 24 sekki rather than the now-used four seasons of springs, summer, autumn, and winter. These were further divided into 72 Kō, which are five days apart each. That's where the lounge gets its idea for changing its cocktails every five days. So you're sure to find an interesting flavour on every visit.

Kagyo Ryoran - Joy Area 

Kagyo Ryoran is a separate cafe lounge at the aquarium where they serve authentic Japanese sweets in collaboration with famous confectionery shops.

From Left Clockwise: Goldfish Sarasa ¥750 / Palet D'or Cacao Soda ¥900 / Echire Butter & Cream Castella ¥800 / lohasbeans coffee Matcha Tiramisu ¥850 / Goldfish Jelly ¥750 (All Before Tax)

The cafe serves up range of tasty Japanese desserts, from traditional ones to others inspired by goldfish and some made in collaboration with other shops.

Large Plush Toys: ¥3,200 Each (Before Tax)

The aquarium event sells its own souvenirs, such as goldfish plushies in various sizes, original confections, collaborative products, and more. "Everything was magical—the goldfish, the sounds, the lights, the atmosphere!" explains Yuna. "They have a lot of different varieties of goldfish, and the fish tanks come in all shapes and sizes, which makes for plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. And since it's inspired by Edo culture, it has a Japanese vibe to it too. The fish are always swimming around, so no two moments are ever the same, meaning you're offered something fresh every time you visit."   If you're visiting Tokyo, be sure to pay a visit to ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM.

ASOBINEXT is a new project launched by event management and talent agency ASOBISYSTEM, which is known for managing artists like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. The project aims to create next generation icons who will promote their unique personalities and outlooks to the world using social media and in turn bring about new forms of culture. As part of ASOBINEXT, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON will be publishing content from each talent that is tied to ASOBINEXT in the form of their favourite and recommended things. In this edition, we are joined by ASOBINEXT's Izumi Aine, who performs on live streams and is active on social media in the hopes of becoming an idol. Today, she is showcasing a selection of different outfits.   The four looks she has put together are focused on the jumper skirt, a versatile clothing item that can be worn in a multitude of ways, no matter the season.  

Black Half-Sleeve Blouse x Jumper Skirt

Both the blouse and skirt have a black base. This, together with showing a bit of arm and leg, keeps the look tight without being over the top. And I keep the look fresh by styling my hair in curled twintails!  

White Long-Sleeve Blouse x Jumper Skirt

A highlight of the jumper skirt is how you can change the impression you'll leave by having the blouse just one tone. A black one piece, too, can give you a cute look like that of sweet and classic lolita fashion. I tried combining that with curly hair and a lace rose headdress. Going half-sleeve can be chilly in the spring and autumn, so I recommend this one for those seasons!  

Jumper Skirt x Trench Coat

If we're talking lolita coats, then you often get those with fur on the sleeves and collar, but putting a look together with a trench coat looks great too. Coats with lots of fur on them and warm, fluffy, and cute, but they can be difficult to pull off well. Trench coats, on the other hand, let you have the front unzipped and open so you can show off a one piece. And if it gets cold, you can zip it up. This means there's two different ways you can wear a trench coat, making it very versatile. You can clad yourself in one during the cold spring and autumn days to keep warm.  

Jumper Skirt x Grey Vest

"Thank you for visiting So-And-So Tower today. The observation deck is located on the 7th and top floor, up 356m high. It takes 120 seconds to reach it." You can just hear the announcement with this look which gives off elevator-girl-in-front-of-the-department-store vibes. If you're tired of the same old lolita looks, or are stuck on how to change things up, then I recommend this one to you.  

Bonus: Jumper Skirt x Cardigan

For this bonus look I put my all into creating a casual lolita outfit. Wearing the cardigan without having a pannier on brings volume to the skirt and brings together its design, making it a lolita outfit that's not too in-your-face. This one's perfect for beginners who want to try out lolita fashion but are still a little apprehensive.  

What does lolita fashion mean to Izumi Aine?

I put together four looks plus a bonus one for you all today. What did you think? When I was little, I was influenced by a manga series called Hime Gal Paradise which I used to read in Ciao Magazine. It opened my eyes to lolita fashion and all of its enchanting lace designs and patterns.   In today's internet society, the world has become a place where you can see things you don't want to, like mental abuse and insults, which I feel is making it harder to shout about the things you love. But it's been a while since smartphone have been around now, so I feel the time has come to talk about the things you love and respect our individualities! That's the kind of world I want to aim for! And my first step towards that is promoting lolita fashion.   Brand featured in this article: axes femme / BODYLINE  

ASOBINEXT is a new project launched by event management and talent agency ASOBISYSTEM, which is known for managing artists like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. The project aims to create next generation icons who will promote their unique personalities and outlooks to the world using social media and in turn bring about new forms of culture. As part of ASOBINEXT, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON will be publishing content from each talent that is tied to ASOBINEXT in the form of their favourite and recommended things. Today, we are joined by ASOBINEXT's Haruna Tamura, an actor and YouTuber, whose film recommendation in this edition is the live-action adaptation of Let Me Eat Your Pancreas.

Synopsis

The story is centred on two individuals who, at the start of their relationship had never really spoken about anything in particular... initially. "Me," the male protagonist in the film, comes across a diary in a hospital waiting room and discovers it belongs to his classmate Sakura Yamauchi. He learns in the diary that she has a pancreatic illness. https://twitter.com/kimisui_movie/status/844735229902274560?s=21  https://twitter.com/kimisui_movie/status/879600249500598273?s=21  Sakura is a very popular girl in Me's class, and he never thought she would be suffering from such a fatal illness. She had kept it a secret, with only the people in her family knowing about it. And so begins a bittersweet love story between the plain and simple Me and Sakura, his complete opposite who is the popular one of the class. https://twitter.com/kimisui_movie/status/868708467804168192?s=21 

Cast 

There are different cast members in Let Me Eat Your Pancreas for playing both the present and past selves of the characters.   The characters of the past, 12 years ago, are played by the following: Minami Hamabe as Sakura Yamauchi, Takumi Kitamura as Me/Haruki Shiga, Karen Otomo as Kyoko, and Yuma Yamoto as Gamu-kun.   This film marked the first time Minami and Takumi had starred in film together, and it was a huge success amongst viewers who shed tears at the relationship between the ill-stricken girl, and the boy who found her diary that details her experiences of living with said illness.   Playing the characters of the present is: Shun Oguri as Haruki Shiga, Keiko Kitagawa as Kyoko, and Yusuke Kamiji as Gamu-kun. Comments from viewers who have watched the film often pointed towards how Shun and Yusuke gave authentic performances of Haruki and Gamu-kun grown-up together, and how they Keiko Kitagawa's dress was spot on. I was drawn in by how they all knew each other at school. https://twitter.com/kimisui_movie/status/892247322234568705?s=21 

My Favourite Part

The highlight of the film for me which I want to point out to everyone is Minami Hamabe's portrayal of Sakura Yamauchi. She purposely puts energy into her performance, and that really left an impression on me. The world of the movie and the real world are two completely different things. Of course, this character doesn't really exist, but when I watched the performance I felt I understood her. There was a real affinity there. As the story progresses, so too does the illness grow more serious, so what I want is for people to pay attention to her facial expressions, her demeanour, and such, as that happens.   https://twitter.com/kimisui_movie/status/868753787149791232?s=21 

Wrapping Up

I first watched this film when I was a 3rd year high school student. Since the film is set in the same school year, the story had an even greater impact on me. I was able to learn the bittersweet-ness of romance as well as the preciousness of life. To this day, I think it remains my favourite film.   I was captured by the array of emotions that Minami Hamabe portrays in particular. There are a lot of parts that I can relate to from being a student to becoming an adult. It's a very easy story to get behind, so if you're reading this, I'd love it if you checked it out.   Minami Hamabe and Takumi Kitamura are also starring in the film Omoi, Omoware, Furi, Furare which is showing now too. I want to go and see it for myself to see how they have both grown.