Welcome to Ysabel Andrei's land of dreams! Ysa wishes to inspire everyone to chase after their dreams.
Please don't hesitate to contact her at [email protected] if you need help about anything under the sun especially about J-Pop and JDoramaEiga!
THE PLACES TO GO FOR JAPANESE POP CULTURE GOODS:
Amazon Japan
A!smart
CDJapan
HMV Japan
Mandarake
Play Asia
Suruga-ya
YesAsia
My grandparents and relatives recently visited Manila, so I came home to Marikina from the province. It was a fun three weeks with them. We also had two family reunions (one from my grandfather’s side and one from my grandmother’s) while they were here. My brother and I always assisted our grandparents during their stay here. I’m also grateful for my relatives and the wonderful time we shared. We all cried at the airport when they left.
After my grandparents’ short vacation, I gathered all my documents for my application for the JET Programme (Assistant Language Teacher/ALT) of the Japanese Embassy here in Manila. They offer this program annually. So, if you’re interested in spreading Japanese culture and want to teach in Japan, I recommend applying for this program.
I also took JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4 last Dec 3rd. I was nervous yet calm the whole time while answering the exam. I had already taken N5 and N4 before, so I knew what to expect. I was silently screaming when it was the reading comprehension test. I think that’s my weakness among the three tests. The first test was grammar, the second was reading comprehension, and the third was listening. I believe my strongest part was the listening section. The results will be out by February. I’m nervous about the result but I’ll accept it if I fail since I wasn’t prepared enough.
Macken also visited Manila last November, so I finally took the chance to meet him! I got his photobook “Up The Road” and “Rurouni Kenshin: Final” Blu-ray signed! He smiled at me when I said, “Thank you.” I felt weak on my knees and smiled like an idiot afterward! Haha I also attended his first-ever fanmeeting in Manila. We all saw he’s more relaxed here than at the Manila Pop Culture Convention. Denise Laurel was such a good host! I hope organizers will hire her for future Japanese fanmeetings. She was so good and pretty! We also had the hi-bye session, and it was literally just a hi-bye! I shouted, “I love Haruma too,” but I don’t think he heard me. Huhu To see his smile up close was to die for!
I also watched two Japanese movies in our local cinemas. The first was “TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room” and “My Happy Marriage” (As Long As We Both Shall Live). I was silently screaming for Kaku Kento everytime he appeared on the screen. I was cheering for him! I also silently cheered for Meme and Mio in “My Happy Marriage.” I was crying the whole time since the movie deeply moved me. I first saw them together in “Trillion Game,” their characters here were very different from that drama. Great job, Meme and Mio!
Overall, I’m enjoying my life again now since I’m already back here in Metro Manila. I can meet my friends and attend events again.
Hi, I saw your blog about where to study Nihongo in Manila. It is very useful. Thank you! Please update the website of Nihongo Center Foundation. The website URL is now nihongocenter. com. ph
Hi, anon! Thank you for the correction! I’m also glad my blog helped you! :)
I did a thing to my room. I used washi tapes at first but they fell off so I used thumbtacks afterwards. www I feel so much inspired when I look at them! <3
have you tried transacting with Angel Hearts Shop? or are you atleast aware of it? ^^
Hello! Thank you for dropping by my blog. <3
This is the first time I’ve heard about them. I’ve checked the page and they’re also selling J-Rock goods. Thank you for pointing it out. I’ll make sure to add it on the list. :)
Did everyone go to Eiga Sai held last week? Which films did you catch?
The Japan Foundation Manila annually holds a movie festival called “Eiga Sai” for Japanese film enthusiasts. Eiga Sai literally means movie festival (Eiga for movie while Sai for festival). This is in celebration for Japan-Philippines friendship month. The movie festival usually starts in mid-July until August in Manila, Cebu and Davao.
I watched last July 13 and was able to see three films: “WA-SHOKU ~ Beyond Sushi ~, Tada’s Do-it All House: Disconcerto and Thermae Romae II.
Be astonished with the delicate making of Japanese cuisine
WA-SHOKU ~ Beyond Sushi ~ is a documentary featuring Japanese cuisine that is spreading like wildfire in America. This factual film presents the passionate story of Kanai Noritoshi, a Chairman of Mutual Company Inc., who propagated the beginning of Japanese cuisine in the West. It also features known Japanese chefs in the US such as Matsuhisa Nobu of Nobu restaurants, Uechi Katsuya of Katsu-ya group and Tyson Cole, the chef/owner of Uchi restaurant among others.
One thing that I learned in the said documentary is that Japanese cuisine needs to adapt to its market. For instance, some customers request that they add seasoning in sushi but the chef declined. Due to this, they started losing customers. Hence, the restaurant management changed their way of thinking and started to adapt.
From Ysa’s point of view:
I visited US last year and I experienced eating in Japanese restaurants. I often asked myself why is the Japanese food in America not really authentic or original when people say it’s authentic Japanese food. My friend, Ashley who was based in Japan for years, also pointed out that the Japanese food here in Manila is extremely sweet. So, now I understood why. They needed to adapt to their market.
About Tada’s Do-It-All House: Disconcerto and Thermae Romae II under the cut!
With Gyoten and Tada’s friendship, will they be able to survive the issues they’re up to?
Tada’s Do-It-All House: Disconcerto is a live action adaptation of Miura Shion’s Naoki Prize-winning series starring known Japanese actors, Eita and Matsuda Ryohei. Disconcerto is already the third installment for the series. The first feature film was made in 2011 and a TV drama was produced in 2013. This particular film highlights the tandem between two friends named Gyoten and Tada. Tada was wavering to take care of Gyoten’s daughter plus they were tasked to investigate a mysterious cult group.
From Ysa’s point of view:
I love how closed the friendship between Gyoten and Tada is. They may have been in pinch since Gyoten doesn’t want to take care of his daughter but they were able to solve the trouble. I also appreciate the comedic elements of the film especially the scene where they were in a lookout for the mysterious cult. Unrelated however, I also love that Kora Kengo is included in this film. I haven’t seen most of his projects yet but I heard that he really is a good actor!
From ancient Rome to post-modern Japan
Thermae Romae II is a sequel to the live action adaptation of Yamazaki Mari’s popular manga. This film details about a Roman Empire bathhouse architect, Lucius (popular Japanese actor Abe Hiroshi), who travels in time to modern Japan. Lucius was assigned to build effective bathhouses for the Romans. From billions of years in Rome to present day Japan, he learns and applies how the Japanese build their bathhouses, hot springs (onsen) and swimming pools.
From Ysa’s point of view:
This is my favorite among the three films I’ve watched! This may not be their cup of tea for some but I really loved how the cast executed the comedy in this film. I was laughing so hard throughout the movie! I was also astounded with the concept of producing a Japanese movie that features a different culture.
Altogether, I really appreciate that Japan Foundation Manila organizes this festival yearly. Japanese films are really awe-inspiring that they deserve to be watched by the whole world! Thank you again to Ashley for inviting me, to Kuya JP and to new friends I’ve met in Eiga Sai. <3
Eiga Sai is still ongoing. The next screening will be this July 24-26 in Abreeza Mall Cinema 2, Ayala, Davao City. While, August 12-15 in UP Film Institute, Quezon City and August 19-23 in Ayala Center Cebu Cinema 4, Cebu City.
For more information about Eiga Sai, please head to Japan Foundation Manila’s website: JFM Website
Japan Foundation Manila’s facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jfmanila/
do you know any ph-based shops (online or not) who are currently accepting pre-orders of jrock goodies? i tried visiting the sites that you have mentioned *btw big thanks for those links!* but it seems that none of them are taking any pre-orders. I am currently in desperate need of the GazettE's merchandises and albums. huhu thanks in advance
Hello! Thank you for dropping by my blog. I’m also happy to be of help to fellow fans! <3
The shops I mentioned may be taking pre-orders for their listed artists. But, it doesn’t mean that they’re only limited for that. They may open pre-orders that are not on the list. For instance, we have J’s Choice (https://www.facebook.com/j3sisters) who is taking requests for artists not listed on their pre-orders. Please head here for more information.
I hope I was able to answer your question. If you have anything more, please don’t hesitate to contact me again. <3 :)
Ysabel Andrei’s Top 10 Recommended Japanese Drama Series of All Time
Hello, fellow Japanese drama enthusiasts and spectators too! I would love to share with you my Top 10 recommended Japanese dramas of all time. As many of you know, I am a huge follower of Japanese drama series. Currently, I’m catching up with spring and summer 2015 Japanese dramas.
I seriously spent one night in deciding which drama series I should include in my list since they’re so many good Japanese dramas out there!! I literally listed all the dramas I’ve watched and I carefully chose 10. Please understand that this is a personal list so I’d like to apologize if your favorite drama is not on the list. Feel free to share your favorite Japanese dramas on the comment box below so other fans could see them too and I’ll also check them out! ;)
But first, why am I into Japanese dramas?
This is the same addiction you have when you follow American series or Korean dramas. However, to differentiate with them, I found Japanese dramas much more enchanting than the mentioned above that I really got addicted to them!
Since, first, they’re not the typical “poor girl longing to be saved by a rich, handsome man and with a wicked antagonist” type of story, which is evident in our local soap operas today. On the side note, I’d love to commend GMA7 by providing us something different and that focuses on LGBT issues (My Husband’s Lover, The Rich Man’s Daughter).
Going back! Japanese dramas let us choose in a variety of themes. We have Japanese shows focusing on different issues in the:
• Family - Kazoku Game (bullying, only being a family from the outside)
• Friendship - Nobuta wo Produce (how to gain back self-confidence and how to treasure more your friends)
• School relationships / Kouhai – Sempai relationship - Hana Kimi (how to deal with your environment when you’re the only female in an all male school)
• Sibling relationship - Dear Sister (how to endlessly love a sister back)
• Society - Ashita mama ga inai (how to survive in the society when you’re an abandoned child, Mondai no Aru Restaurant (Japanese women issues like discrimination in the workplace)
• Sports - Buzzer Beat (basketball), Rookies (baseball), Happy (tennis)
See? That’s what I love in Japanese dramas. :) They give you a variety of themes and things to reflect and ponder on. What’s more is that they leave you hanging. You hunger and thirst for more questions and answers.
So now, let’s start with No. 10!
10. Ryuusei no Kizuna aka Ties of Shooting Stars (Fall 2008)
Official website: http://www.tbs.co.jp/ryuseinokizuna/
Cast: Arashi’s Ninomiya Kazunari, Kanjani8’s Nishikido Ryo, Toda Erika, Kaname Jun
Genre: Comedy / Family / Mystery/Thriller / Romance / Tearjerker
Episodes: 10
Broadcast network: TBS
Theme: Beautiful Days by Arashi
Insert song: ORION by Nakashima Mika
Synopsis:
“When we grow up… We’ll kill him together”. Koichi, Taisuke, and Shizuna are three siblings whose parents had been brutally murdered when they were just elementary school children, and they vowed to avenge the death of their parents. Fourteen years later, their vengeful plan unravels countless new facts. A shocking revelation leads to an overwhelmingly emotional ending. What will become of the siblings who have lived their lives solely in reliance of their bond alone? – TBS
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Ryusei_no_Kizuna
From Ysa’s point of view:
The three main characters: Koichi, Taisuke and Shizuna, show us the “kizuna” or “bond” of siblings. In order to get revenge for the people who killed their parents, they team up and come up with plans. I thought that it’s a drama that would leave your heart aching but I was wrong since this drama has a comedic approach. I love the comedic elements of this drama especially the good laugh you’ll get from the chemistry between the actors!
Top 9 until No. 1 under the cut! :)
9. Nodame Cantabile (Fall 2006, Winter 2008, Fall 2009 and Spring 2010)
Official website: N/A
Main cast: Ueno Juri, Tamaki Hiroshi, Eita, Koide Keisuke, Mizukawa Asami
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Episodes: 11 plus 2 episode special drama and 2 movies
Broadcast network: Fuji TV
Opening theme: Symphony No. 7 in A major by Beethoven, arranged by Hattori Takayuki
Insert theme: Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin, arranged by Hattori Takayuki
Synopsis:
Based on the hit comic book by Ninomiya Tomoko, this is a fun-filled quirky romantic story of two very opposite people.
Megumi Noda, or "Nodame" is a piano student at Momogaoka College of Music. An extremely talented pianist who wants to be a kindergarten teacher, she prefers playing by ear rather than reading the music score. She is messy and disorganized, takes baths several days apart and loves to eat, sometimes stealing her friend's lunchbox when it is filled with delicacies.
Shinichi Chiaki, is Momogaoka's top student. Born into a musical family, he is talented in piano and violin and has secret ambitions to become a conductor. An arrogant multi-lingual perfectionist who once lived abroad in the music capitals of the world as a young boy, he feels mired in Japan because of a childhood phobia.
They meet by accident. Nodame quickly falls in love, but it takes much longer for Chiaki to even begin to appreciate Nodame's unusual qualities. Their relationship causes them both to develop and grow. Because of Nodame, Chiaki got the opportunity to lead a student orchestra and begins to have a broader appreciation of people's musical abilities. Because of Chiaki, Nodame faces her fears and enters a piano competition. Opportunities open up as both begin taking risks, stretching themselves far more than they ever thought possible. – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Nodame_Cantabile
From Ysa’s point of view:
I haven’t read the manga or watched the anime but one thing’s for sure: I love this Japanese to bits since first: music is my first love. I have a background in playing the piano and violin so I was really excited when I got to watch this drama. With Nodame’s quirky attitude and Chiaki’s strict character, they have an undeniably great chemistry. I so much love the musical qualities of the drama. Don’t forget to watch the drama SP and the two movies too since they’re really worth a watch! :)
8. Hanazakari no Kimitachi he / For You in Full Blossom aka Hana Kimi (Summer 2007 and Fall 2008)
Tagline: Ikemen Paradise
Official website: http://www.fujitv.co.jp/b_hp/hanakimi/index.html
Main cast: Horikita Maki, Oguri Shun, Ikuta Toma, Mizushima Hiro, Okada Masaki, Shirota Yu, Yamamoto Yusuke, Kimura Ryo, Ishigaki Yuma, Kyo Nobuo, Iwasa Mayuko, Kiritani Mirei
Genre: Comedy, Romance, School
Episodes: 12 plus 1 episode special drama
Broadcast network: Fuji TV
Opening theme: Ikenai Taiyou by Orange Range
Ending theme: PEACH by Otsuka Ai
Insert songs: My Love by Kawashima Ai, Boom boom boom by Go Hiromi, Paradise Ginga by Hikaru Genji, Tomaranai Ha~Ha by Yazawa Eikichi, Girlfriend by Avril Lavigne
Synopsis:
Based on a popular comic, this hilarious comedy follows the chaos, troubles and friendship at a boys' boarding school after a girl-disguising-a-boy joins. Ashiya Mizuki has just come back to Japan from California where she was raised. She fell in love with Sano Izumi, a hopeful high jump hero, who has quit after an accident. As she wants him to go back to the sport once again, she enters the same high school as a boy! With a short hair, flattened chest and lowered voice, she starts sharing the same room with Sano. – Fuji TV
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Hanazakari_no_Kimitachi_e
From Ysa’s point of view:
Many fans of this first Hana Kimi version will always tell you that they love this version more than the 2011 remake. I have to admit that this is of course, better than the remake! I love the tandem between Oguri Shun and Ikuta Toma; trying to protect Horikita Maki’s character, Ashiya Mizuki. But, please! Don’t forget to watch the remake too! I love it that this drama exhibits gender bend. The main character went by herself in an all male school. The drama tells us her adventures in that certain school. I so much love the friendship between all the characters in this drama.
7. Keizoku 2: SPEC (Fall 2010, Spring 2012, Fall 2013)
Official website: http://www.tbs.co.jp/spec2010/
Main cast: Toda Erika, Kase Ryo, Fukuda Saki, Shirota Yu, Tanaka Tetsushi, Kamiki Ryunosuke
Genre: Mystery
Episodes: 10 plus 2 special dramas and 3 movies
Broadcast network: TBS
Theme song: THE RICECOOKERS: NAMIno YUKUSAKI
Insert song: N/A
Synopsis:
Like the original series, "SPEC" will revolve around a pair of police detectives as part of a special division solving difficult cases. Touma Saya is a woman with an IQ of 201 and an inability to "read the atmosphere" in social situations. Due to a previous case, her left arm is in a sling. Her partner Sebumi Takeru used to be the star performer of the Metropolitan Police. After some incident however, he was transferred to Mishou. Those two track down offenders with special abilities (SPEC) who managed to get away with their crimes. – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Keizoku_2:_SPEC
From Ysa’s point of view:
If you want a mysterious drama, better watch SPEC!! Toda Erika’ lead role, Touma Saya, along with Sebumi Takeru, are solving unsolvable and unusual crimes in the police department. People bearing striking powers called SPEC instigated the inexplicable crimes. What’s more is that you’ll see the amazing acting performance of Kamiki Ryunosuke. He’s sure an expert in this kind of role: being a wicked antagonist!
6. 1 Litre no Namida aka One Litre of Tears (Fall 2005 and Spring 2007)
Official website: N/A
Main cast: Sawajiri Erika, Yakushimaru Hiroko, Nishikido Ryo, Narumi Riko, Fujiki Naohito
Genre: Family, Human, Romance, School
Episodes: 11 plus 1 episode special drama
Broadcast network: Fuji TV
Theme song: Only Human by K
Insert song: Konayuki and 3/9 by Remioromen
Synopsis:
15-year-old Ikeuchi Aya was an ordinary girl, the daughter of a family who works at a tofu shop, and a soon-to-be high schooler. However, odd things have been happening to Aya lately. She has been falling down often and walks strange. Her mother, Shioka, takes Aya to see the doctor, and he informs Shioka that Aya has spinocerebellar degeneration - a terrible disease where the cerebellum of the brain gradually deteriorates to the point where the victim cannot walk, speak, write, or eat. A cruel disease, as it does not affect the mind in the least. How will Aya react when told about her disease? And how will Aya live from now on? – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/1_Litre_no_Namida
From Ysa’s point of view:
The title says it all: it will leave you crying one liter of tears. I was moved with Sawajiri Erika’s acting and with the plot of the drama. This drama will teach you the core values of a Japanese family. If you love this drama, don’t forget to watch Kamenashi Kazuya’s drama too entitled: Yuuki. They almost have the same plot.
5. Bloody Monday (Fall 2008 and Winter 2010)
Official website: http://www.tbs.co.jp/bloody-monday/
Main cast: Miura Haruma, Sato Takeru, Kawashima Umika, Fujii Mina, Tanaka Tetsushi, Katase Nana, Ashina Sei, Narimiya Hiroki, Kichise Michiko
Genre: Action, Suspense
Episodes: 11 (Season 1) 9 (Season 2)
Broadcast network:
Theme song: Over the rain ~Hikari no Hashi~ by flumpool
Insert song: N/A
Synopsis:
After a biological terrorist attack kills off the population of a Russian town; Japan's Public Safety Special Third unit, code name THIRD-i, believes that the terrorist organization responsible plans to unleash the same virus known as Bloody X into Tokyo. Subsequently, THIRD-i recruits the help of genius hacker Takagi Fujimaru to find out what happened in Russia. However, as Fujimaru becomes involved, he soon finds out that the terrorist groups influence reaches not only his school but even the police. Fujimaru must now rely on his skill as a hacker to unravel the organizations sinister plot and find out the truth behind "Bloody Monday." – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Bloody_Monday
From Ysa’s point of view:
I’ll be so much honest! I’m recommending this drama because of the actors involved: Miura Haruma and Sato Takeru. Some of you may know that these two is my OTP! (One True Pairing) <3 Kidding aside, I loved this drama because of the theme: crime versus crime (hacking versus terrorism) As I was an International Student, my thinking was mainly to fight global crisis so I was drawn into the theme of the drama. I was inspired with the perseverance of Takagi Fujimaru to save his countrymen and loved ones. Please do watch this drama! I’d really love you if you do! Hihi <3
4. Kazoku Game / Family Game (Spring 2013)
Official website: http://www.fujitv.co.jp/kazoku-game/index.html
Main cast: Arashi’s Sakurai Sho, Kamiki Ryunosuke, Kutsuna Shiori, Kitahara Rie, Itao Itsuji, Suzuki Honami
Genre: Family, School
Episodes: 10
Broadcast network: Fuji TV
Theme song: Endless Game by Arashi
Insert song: N/A
Synopsis:
The Family Game was originally an award-winning novel by Honma Yohei that was adapted for television drama and film. 30 years later, the story returns to the screen again on Fuji TV. Sakurai Sho stars in this troubling drama as the private tutor Yoshimoto Koya. Koya becomes a tutor to a student, Numata Shigeyuki, an underachiever on the verge of dropping out of middle school. Expecting immediate results, Shigeyuki’s father makes a deal with Koya that if he could make Shigeyuki return to school within a week, he would receive a 100,000 yen bonus. Koya accepts the offer, replying that he would only need 5 days to complete the mission but demands that no one should interfere with his methodology in doing so.
A handsome face with a reckless mouth, Koya is a wacky unpredictable pro tutor. How will he save Shigeyuki, a boy who has been bullied in school, betrayed by his best friend, and become a shut-in at home? How will he educate Shigeyuki to change his ways? What is Koya’s motivation in teaching? Koya’s "education" is nothing like anyone has ever imagined. You just have to see it yourself to believe it! - Fuji TV
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Kazoku_Game
From Ysa’s point of view:
I can greatly relate with the issues involved in “Kazoku Game” since I experienced bullying before and my family also has some issues. I was blown away with Sho’s acting. I loved his performance in this drama. With how will Sho’s character solve family issues, please do watch this drama to check! It will blow you too away! ;)
Synopsis:
Hanzawa Naoki works for Tokyo Chuo Bank as the head of the Loans Division at their Osaka Nishi branch. The overbearing branch manager, Asano, forces him to award an unsecured loan of 500 million yen to Nishi Osaka Steel. On the surface, Nishi Osaka Steel seems like a very reputable company, but in actual fact it is a company in deep trouble. Debt-ridden, the company accountants resort to window-dressing the financial statements in order to hide the truth from the public. Three months after the loan, Nishi Osaka Steel goes bankrupt and the ambitious and power-hungry Asano makes Hanzawa the scapegoat for the 500 million loss. Hanzawa is called to Tokyo to answer to the internal investigations team, where he vehemently denies responsibility for the loss, and swears to recover the 500 million yen. That is the only course of action for Hanzawa, if he wants to survive in the banking industry. - TBS
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Hanzawa_Naoki
From Ysa’s point of view:
“Hanzawa Naoki” is a Japanese drama wherein your heart will always pump when you watch it. Every scene will make you jump off your seat. Each episode is very exciting. Plus, Sakai Masato plays the main character, “Hanzawa Naoki”. He’s so good for the lead role! This drama became really popular in Japan with the line “I believe in people's good will but if they screw me, I'll screw them back. Double payback. That's my style.” Translation from: http://film-enthusiast.blogspot.com/2013/09/hanzawa-naoki-quotes.html Please do watch this drama. You’ll never regret! haha <3
2. Gokusen (Spring 2002, Winter 2005, Spring 2008 and Spring 2009)
Official website: http://www.ntv.co.jp/gokusen/
Main cast: Nakama Yukie, Namase Katsuhisa, Matsumoto Jun, Kamenashi Kazuya, Akanishi Jin, Miura Haruma, Takaki Yuya
Genre: Comedy, School
Episodes: 12 plus 1 episode special drama (Season 1) / 10 episodes plus 1 episode special drama (Season 2) 11 episodes plus 1 special drama (Season 3) plus 1 movie
Broadcast network: NTV
Theme song: Feel Your Breeze by V6 / No More Cry by D-51 / Niji by Aqua Timez
Insert song: Kizuna by Kamenashi Kazuya / Oretachi no Seishun by Takaki Yuya
Synopsis:
The story of a young, idealistic teacher who enters Shirokin Gakuen with hopes of making a difference in the students' lives. However, Yamaguchi Kumiko (Nakama Yukie) is in for a rude awakening when she finds that she will be the homeroom teacher of 3-D, the hardest class to maintain in the school. The students have multi-colored hair, sloppy uniforms, and show absolutely no respect to her. The leader of the class, Sawada Shin is lazy but bright and shows some interest in Yamaguchi when he notices that she is very different from other teachers. The students try to bully her to make her quit, but their attempts don't get them very far.
What the class and the rest of the school do not know is that Yamaguchi Kumiko is actually the 4th generation heir to the Ooedo Group, a notorious yakuza clan. Even though her family would like her to take the title of Ojou when her grandfather dies, they have accepted the fact that Yamaguchi would rather be a teacher.
Eventually, the students learn to respect their quirky teacher because of her devotion to them, and even give her a nickname: Yankumi. – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Gokusen
From Ysa’s point of view:
Gokusen is of course part of my list! This drama has three seasons and one movie all tackling about the warm teacher-student relationship. Famous Japanese actress, Nakama Yukie, plays the heroic teacher named Yankumi. I loved the warm relationships depicted in this drama. Although, the story seems to repeat all the time: the teacher running and fighting to save her students, I love the variety of characters. One more reason why I love this drama is this is one of the reasons why I got into the Japanese entertainment scene. I eventually became a follower when I watched Gokusen Season 1!
1. Hana Yori Dango aka Boys Over Flowers (Fall 2005, Winter 2007 and Summer 2008)
Official website: N/A
Main cast: Inoue Mao, Arashi’s Matsumoto Jun, Oguri Shun, Matsuda Shota, Abe Tsuyoshi
Genre: Drama / Romance
Episodes: 9 (Season 1) / 11 (Season 2) plus 1 movie
Broadcast network: TBS
Theme song: Wish by Arashi / Love so Sweet by Arashi / One Love by Arashi
Insert song: Planetarium by Otsuka Ai / Flavor of Life by Utada Hikaru
Synopsis:
Makino Tsukushi is the only poor student at Eitoku Gakuen, the school of the ridiculously rich and privileged that is ruled by Flower 4 or F4, a group of four boys who come from extremely powerful families: Domyoji Tsukasa, the leader and heir of the Domyoji World Finance Group; Hanazawa Rui, the introverted son of a large company; Nishikado Sojiro, a player who is the heir of a tea ceremony school; and Mimasaka Akira, a madam killer with ties to the underground. If a student gets on the F4's bad side, he/she gets a red notice and is bullied and driven out of school.
Makino hopes to pass her days quietly-- without drawing any attention to herself-- but one day, she stands up to Domyoji in defense of her friend. The next day, Makino gets the dreaded red notice. Even though she is harassed, Makino decides to keep going to school because she is a "tough weed". She declares war right back on the F4. Her resolve gets the attention of her crush Hanazawa Rui and oddly enough, rouses romantic feelings in her worst enemy, Domyoji Tsukasa.
The series is based on the Japanese shoujo manga "Hana Yori Dango" (Boys Before Flowers) by Kamio Yoko. – Dramawiki
More information: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Hana_Yori_Dango
From Ysa’s point of view:
We have so many adaptations for the manga, Hana Yori Dango, but nothing can beat this certain version for me! I love the chemistry between the main actors: Matsumoto Jun and Inoue Mao. This is also one of the major reasons why I’m into the Japanese entertainment scene. I thought to myself that Japanese dramas are indeed different when I got to watch this drama. Please do watch this version if you haven’t! :)
So, those are my top 10. How about you? Feel free to share them on the comment box below and I’ll check them out too! <3 :)
May I please dedicate this post to one of my favorite Japanese actors, Kaku Kento. He celebrates his 26th birthday today, this third of July. Happy happy birthday, dear Kakkun! <3
Gif made by sutekinafangirl
Kaku Kento was born in year 1989 on the third day of July. I first discovered him when I watched Takei Emi’s drama in 2011, Asuko March! From then on, I followed his journey in the Japanese entertainment scene. Kaku Kento or dearly known as Kakkun to his fans, belongs in the same talent agency (Amuse Inc.) as Miura Haruma, Sato Takeru, Kamiki Ryunosuke and also artists like Perfume and ONE OK ROCK. He was often offered with comedic roles in Japanese dramas and films like Tumbling, Ranma ½, Soft Boy, Paradise Kiss, etc. I was happy when he was chosen to act in Hanako to Anne since NHK morning dramas are a bit of different. I haven’t seen his performance there yet however according to some respected artists in Japan, he was good in that drama! Also, wait until you see N no Tame ni! I greatly suggest watching the whole drama series of N no Tame ni since the plot is good and you’ll surely see a different Kaku Kento there. I’m very much sure we haven’t seen his full acting potential yet so I hope that he’ll be given more serious roles in the future.
According to his dramawiki, his list of dramas and films up to date are the following:
Drama Series:
* Eien no Zero (TV Tokyo, 2015)
* N no Tame ni (TBS, 2014)
* Yube no Curry, Ashita no Pan (NHK, 2014)
* Nobunaga no Chef 2 (TV Asahi, 2014)
* Hanako to Anne (NHK, 2014)
* Onna Nobunaga (Fuji TV, 2013)
* Danda Rin ~ Roudou Kijun Kantokukan (NTV, 2013, ep5)
* Nakuna, Hara-chan (NTV, 2013)
* Ghost Mama Sousasen (NTV, 2012, ep1-2)
* Clover (TV Tokyo, 2012)
* Ranma 1/2 (NTV, 2011)
* Yuusha Yoshihiko to Maou no Shiro (TV Tokyo, 2011, ep11)
* Saigo no Kizuna: Okinawa Hikisakareta Kyodai (Fuji TV, 2011)
* Asuko March! (TV Asahi, 2011)
* Q10 (NTV, 2010)
* Tumbling (TBS, 2010)
* Samurai High School (NTV, 2009, ep5, 7-9)
* Gokusen Special (NTV, 2009)
* The Naminori Restaurant (NTV, 2008)
* Taiyo to Umi no Kyoshitsu (Fuji TV, 2008)
Films:
* Ore wa Mada Honki Dashite nai Dake (2013)
* Shuffle (2011)
* Paradise Kiss (2011)
* Young Black Jack (2011)
* Kamisama Help! (2010)
* Soft Boy (2010)
* Bushido Sixteen (2010)
* Goldfish in the Sea (2010)
* The Game (2009)
* Gin-iro no Ame (2009)
* Your Story (2009)
* Gokusen the Movie (2009)
* Boku tachi to chuzai san no 700 nichi senso (2008)
* Little DJ: Chiisana koi no monogatari (2007)
* Shindo (2007)
One very interesting fact that I found out about him is he is or was a fan of KAT-TUN! KAT-TUN is one of my favorite Johnny’s acts and finding out that one of my favorite actors is/was/maybe also a fan of one of my favorite idols made me beyond happy! He attended one of KAT-TUN’s Break the Records Tokyo Dome concerts. I was also thinking maybe Kame (Kamenashi Kazuya) invited him since it was also the time of Gokusen the Movie. For more interesting facts about this wonderful man, please head to this “Kaku Kento Facts” made by preciouskento here.
Kaku Kento in KAT-TUN’s Break the Records concert in 2009
(Photo from his blog / head here for his blog entry)
I’m still catching up with his past dramas that I’ve missed. Currently, I’m watching Yube no Curry Ashita no Pan. He acts as Naka Riisa’s friend in this drama. Trivia: Naka Riisa also belongs to Amuse Inc.
Screencap from Yube no Curry Ashita no Pan
What’s my most favorite Kaku Kento drama or film you may ask?
It’s too hard to answer this right now to be honest since I haven’t seen all his performances yet. But to give you a bit of an idea now, I have to say it has to be his appearance in Ghost Mama Sousasen! His role here is different among his drama/film appearances. Since first, the role was too serious. You could see a serious Kaku Kento in Ghost Mama Sousasen. One more thing that attracted me to this drama appearance is his hairstyle! I loved his long black hairstyle here. However, this may change once I’ve already seen all his projects!
Screencap from Ghost Mama Sousasen
Who among his partners in drama series/films do you like for him?
It has to be Takei Emi! (laughs) Asuko March! was the first drama series I’ve known Kaku Kento. I may be biased since I’m also a Takei Emi fan but yes, I like Emi for him! <3
Heated encounter between Kaku Kento and Takei Emi’s characters in Asuko March
Screencap from Asuko March
Takei Emi in Asuko March
What other things do you like about Kaku Kento?
This may be cliché but I so much love his hengao or dork faces he exhibits on his blog and his instagram account!
Hengao photo from his blog
Again, happy happy 26th birthday, dearest Kakkun bb! I hope you enjoy your 26th year here on Earth! May you have more projects in the future. I hope to see you more in drama series and films! I’m also looking forward to your appearance in Super Handsome Live! Happy happy happyyy birthday! <3
Yes, it’s that time of the year again! The Japan Foundation Manila officially announced on their facebook page the schedule and the list of films slated to be screened in this year’s EIGA SAI!
The screening will happen in Shang Cineplex Cinema 2 (July 9 to 19), FDCP Cinematheque, Davao (July 14 to 19), Abreeza Mall Cinema, Davao (July 24 to 26) and UP Film Institute (August 12 to 15) and Ayala Center Cinema 4, Cebu City (August 19 to 23).
The theme for this year’s EIGA SAI is “Tasteful Japan” which will feature the world of culinary in The Land of the Rising Sun. Among the films scheduled to be screened are:
Our Family
Wood Job!
Thermae Romae II
Parasyte (Kiseijuu)
A Tale of Samurai Cooking - A True Love Story
More trailers under the cut
Princess Jellyfish
Tada’s Do-It-All House: Disconcerto
Washoku ~Beyond Sushi~
PATISSERIE Coin de rue
The God of Ramen
and It’s a Beautiful Life – IRODORI.
The trailers were compiled by Lito De Guzman on youtube here.
Admission is again free! <3
For the complete schedule, please refer to their flyer uploaded on JFM’s website here.
If you’re really into Japanese pop culture, you surely can’t miss this festival! Let’s all support Eiga Sai 2015!
Takei Emi just released her newest photobook this month! It’s filled with vibrant photos of Emi being her happy self. This release comes with two books. One featuring main photos of bloom and one is showing her history from 2011-2015.
I can’t stop taking photos of the first few pages since they are really lovely! The pictures taken by the photographer, Mari Amita, on the first pages reveals Emi’s very classy side. While the next pages exhibits Emi’s fun side! You’ll see her laughing while hanging out in a cafe, driving around the city or simply just eating a sandwich. You’ll also see her just relaxing and seizing the moment.
This photobook is really worth every yen if you love Emi dearly like I do! <3
If you like the photos found below, don’t forget to support her by purchasing from the following online stores:
CDJapan / HMV Japan / YesAsia
Emi’s main photobook, bloom and 2011-2015 history, roots
Photos from her photobook under the cut!
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
<3
My most favorite photo in the photobook! Her laugh seems so genuine here. <3
please recommend some stores here in Ph wherein we can buy Japanese merchandises. I really want to buy a certain japanese album but i don't know where. I tried visiting CDJapan but I don't know how to order from the said site and how to pay for the said album. thanks in advance ^^
Hello! Thank you for dropping by my blog! <3
I actually made a review about the four online Japanese stores (CDJapan, HMV Japan, YesAsia and Play-asia) that I know of. Please do read about it here.
If you don’t have any means to purchase from the said online stores, we have the following local stores here in the Philippines that sell Japanese merchandise:
Waku Waku - an anime / J-Pop hobby shop located in Katipunan, Quezon City. Although they have a physical store, they reach out to fans by being present in anime / J-Pop conventions. I blogged about them before here.
Red Monster Shop - they sell all kinds of J-Pop merchandise and even K-Pop merchandise. They’re also always present in anime / J-Pop conventions. They have a physical store too in Marcos Highway, Antipolo. Click here for the facebook page.
JPY Fashionvilla - They sell mostly second hand Johnny’s goods. For their facebook account, please head here.
Karupini Collectibles - If you’re an Amuse fan, I bet this store is for you since I think they mostly order from Asmart, Amuse Inc.’s web shop. For their facebook page, please head here.
For fellow fans who sell their preloved J-Pop goods, please refer to this facebook groups: 1 / 2. Although these groups are not properly moderated, most posts are still about selling J-Pop merchandise.
We actually have lots of local online stores that sell J-Pop merchandise. I’ll make a detailed list soon! ;)
Here are some photos from Miura Haruma’s latest photobook, Fureru. Hopefully, I can share scans too in the future. For Miura Haruma scans, please refer to my fandom blog: sutekinafangirl.
Haruma wants to re-discover his Japanese roots so he immersed in his local culture. He also visited some Asian countries to further discover himself.
If you love the following photos, please support Haruma by purchasing a copy from the following online stores:
I’m sharing some of my favorite photos of Miura Haruma’s 1st photobook. Hopefully, I can share some scans too in the future. I also shared some Miura Haruma scans in my fandom blog before: sutekinafangirl. Please feel free to check. <3
