2006 WINTER PREVIEW

FEATURES

Kabuki A Treasure Box of Japanese Design A form of Japanese theater created to entertain the common folk 400 years ago, kabuki continues to delight all ages. Today it still reflects the flamboyance of Edo-period tastes in the lavish design of stage sets, props, costumes, make-up, and more. Come to the theater with us in our kabuki primer to appreciate this remarkable design tradition.

Living with Japanese Art Join us on our visit to Elizabeth and Bill Clark, American collectors with a deep love of Japanese art. Not only have they built a stellar collection, but their urgency to preserve JapanÕs art traditions for future generations has led them to establish a foundation with thrilling plans for a new museum.

The Delights of Japanese Hot Springs 19 Relaxing Onsen Retreats Volcanic geology has endowed Japan with a wealth of fine hot springs. Just in time for winter we introduce you to our favorite onsen resorts, the healing effects of their waters, the traditional spirit of hospitality, the etiquette of the bath, and the pure bliss of soaking outdoors amid the falling snow.

Art

Pursuing a Porcelain Legend-------the Delights of Ko-Kutani The 19th-century revival of this legendary multicolored pottery from the Edo period vanished after just seven years. We highlight the genius behind the revival and a comprehensive exhibition opening this winter.

CUISINE

Cha-kaiseki Winter Cusine-------Appealing to All Five Senses Aesthetics, spirituality, and a sense of funÑcha-kaiseki combines all these in the essence of graceful winter hospitality. We will get to the glowing heart of this culinary pinnacle.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

Gashapon ! Miniature Madness TJapanese fans obsessively collect miniature figures, and the craze is spreading worldwide. We try to explain the appeal, reveal where to begin your own quest, and take you behind the scenes to see how the Kaiyodo company creates these tiny wonders. Sogetsu Ikebana — Flowers on the Move The fourth head of the Sogetsu school of flower arrangement reveals her latest collaboration with the works of her illustrious ancestors.

FASHION

Pearls-------Serene Sea Gems Though pearls were originally gifts of the sea, Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in culturing them in 1893. We share some pearl history and a look at the latest jewelry. Dress Up your Cartier this Winter What watch is complete without a glittering charm dangling near the stem?

Art

Sogetsu's Invisible Power See the amazing bamboo installation designed for the noh stage by the head of this famed ikebana school.

TRAVEL

Mount Fuji Comes to Me Discover a new side to Mount Fuji in a photo essay by Yukio Ohyama. Little Messengers from Shrines and Temples Animals are the divine emissaries from the gods to the people. At shrines and temples you'll find the animals depicted as cute talismans that are almost irresistible.

REGULAR FEATURES

Letters

Editor's Choice
---Greet the New Year in kimono couture. We've selected the outfit for you.
---A ryokan owner invented a dream futon. You can order your own.
---Fabrics evoke the spirit of Old Edo at a new Tokyo landmark.

Arts & Artists
Four winter interviews: jazz dancer Akemi Matsubara / museum director Michael Govan / guitar maker Kazuo Yairi / architect John Pawson

Art & Design
The architecture of Kunio Mayekawa at Tokyo Station Gallery / Rosanjin Kitaoji and Taro Okamoto in Kawasaki / the works of contemporary German photographers at The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

Close Up
Three-star Paris chef Pierre Gagnaire opens his namesake restaurant in Tokyo / Lanvin shows its inspirations from geisha at 2006 Spring-Summmer Paris Collection / Movado and Arita introduce artists' designs for watches and pottery

Product & Retail News

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