Akari Mochizuki (望月あかり), formerly known as Alika Mochida, is without a doubt the most active female Japanese enka (演歌) singer in the UK. She seems to crop up at pretty much every Japanese event, often with the ‘shamazing’ Hibiki Ichikawa, and never fails to entertain. Her brand new CD contains two songs, plus the karaoke versions … Continue reading
There’s so much going on in London at the moment, and with not one by TWO Japanese culture festivals happening right now I was spoilt for choice. Japan Festival 2012 started on Wednesday 25th July and continues until Tuesday 7th August, at Broadgate Circle, near Liverpool Street Station. I popped along on Thursday after work … Continue reading
Hyper Japan 2011 was held at Olympia Two in London from 22nd – 24th July, and I attended on all three days. There was so much to take in at the event – at times it was almost overwhelming. It was much bigger than I expected, and there were more people than I think anyone … Continue reading
When I was in Kyoto in March I came across this unbelievably cute DVD in a touristy gift shop, and I impulsively bought it. It was playing on a screen in the shop and, even though I didn’t really know what I was watching, I thought it was too beautiful to leave behind. I finally … Continue reading
I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Brighton Japan Festival (ブライトン日本フェスティバル) today, and feel like I’ve just returned from a day-trip to Japan! 😀 It was everything I had hoped for – and more. There was traditional music, modern music, stalls selling interesting and cute Japanese items and food glorious food. The whole event … Continue reading
Haikugirl's Japan 