The Cante de las Minas Festival’s contests have launched the career of many flamenco artists through its 61 years of history in the disciplines of singing, dancing, guitar and other instrumental playing
Flamenco bass player Yusuke Morita (Nishinomiya, 1988) has been selected to play on August 4th at the semifinals of the Cante de las Minas International Festival, the world’s largest flamenco event that takes place in the Spanish town of La Unión.
The world of sake is made up of interesting folks who’ve dedicated themselves to keeping the rich history of Japan’s native drink alive. Folks who’re leaving their own unique mark and something very special is going on at the Miyoshikiku brewery in Tokushima Prefecture.
Meet Mamiya Ryōichirō, the 5th generation head of the Miyoshikiku brewery. A born RocknRolla with a taste for out of the box sake and a man I had the pleasure of interviewing alongside Kyoko Nagano.
Continue reading “Walking On The Wild Side Of Sake With The Miyoshikiku Brewery”
Drinking sake is a sure-fire way of feeling better connected to Japanese culture. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or first-time drinker, every sip is another step towards understanding the heritage and traditions that make Japan so multi-faceted.
When entering the world of sake, there’s loads of terms thrown around that might seem intimidating and I think it’s interesting how people find their own way of relating to different topics.
From my perspective, I find popular culture helps. With that said, here’s a pop culture lexicon from a sake nerd that’s filled with random comic, wrestling and musical references.
Continue reading “A Nihonshu Pop Culture Lexicon From A Sake Nerd”
Learning about Japanese philosophy is a great way to discover new life lessons and apply them to daily routines. Oubaitori Life examines the Japanese concepts that fictional characters apply to their routines and an interesting character to focus on is Johnny Silverhand from the Cyberpunk franchise.
A soldier turned anti-establishment rockstar and freedom fighter, Silverhand surrounded himself with Japanese concepts on a regular basis.
The rockerboy strums
An immortal legacy
Never fade away
The Kokoro Files is a series that tells stories of everyday people and their connection to Japan. Some are drawn to the Land of the Rising Sun for the food, while others feel connected to the music. Michael Graham was inspired by Japanese music, to the point that he was compelled to learn how to play traditional instruments like the koto.
Michael was kind enough to share his musical experiences with Yamato Magazine and explain how he became part of a Taiko drum band. Continue reading “The Kokoro Files: Michael Graham”
The Kokoro Files is a series that is dedicated to sharing the stories of people who are passionate about Japan. I’m pleased to present an interview with taiko drumming expert and Japanese language teacher Mary Murata. Read on to discover the origins of taiko drumming and why the art form is so captivating. Continue reading “The Kokoro Files: Mary Murata”
You’re never too old to learn something new, right?
That’s exactly the kind of attitude 65-year-old Emiko Shibamura has gone for with the release of her first rap single, Akindo Fighter. Continue reading “65-Year-Old Emiko Shibamura Takes On The Rap World With Akindo Fighter”
Yamato Magazine 