Attracted to Expos for 54 Years

With "Designing Future Society for Our Lives" as its theme, particular attention is being paid to cutting-edge medical technologies, disaster preparedness to "Protect Lives," and initiatives for peace. Of special note is the sentiment embodied in the "World's Largest Wooden Structure, the Ring."

The previous Dubai Expo, with the participation of a record 192 countries, had numerous initiatives to attract foreign investment. Similarly, the Osaka-Kansai Expo aims to become a meaningful event with 161 countries participating amid uncertain global conditions. Osaka-Kansai Expo hopes to contribute to global problem-solving even after its conclusion, strengthening ties with nations worldwide.
 

From a global perspective, Japan's longevity culture, contributed by its cuisine, and its peace culture symbolized by anime, are attractive. Exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge technologies promoting longevity culture, like artificial hearts using IPS cells, are particularly intriguing at this Expo. Japan has much to offer the world in terms of disaster preparedness and a philosophy of loving peace.
Although Expos last for six months, they also serve as platforms for Japan to showcase its regional uniqueness and long history. Japan, a rare advanced nation where various festivals have been cherished locally from ancient times, will host over 3,000 festivals at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, offering foreigners the opportunity to experience Japan's diverse festivals and parades.

Are there events and exhibitions involving university students and exchange students?
 

「EXPO 2025 Design System」

 Universities like Osaka University are engaging in new initiatives to connect with people overseas through music. Many universities, including Osaka Metropolitan University and Kansai University, have student-led circle activities related to the Expo. Various events and presentations involving students have been held, indicating active involvement in the Expo.
Famous musicians participated in events held a year before the Expo, which saw enthusiastic participation from many university students. During the Expo, there will be seven stages hosting anime events, live performances by internationally renowned musicians promoting peace, and more.
Specific participants and festivals will be increasingly introduced through various media. Former president of Yoshimoto Kogyo is in charge of official festival events during the Expo, introducing future "comedy" and "entertainment" using VR, among other innovations. The Expo will also provide a rare opportunity for visitors to experience various festivals and live performances from different regions of Japan, gathering many foreign tourists.
Additionally, utilizing the latest communication technologies by companies like NTT, the communication environment within the venue will greatly improve. Advanced simultaneous translation technology will facilitate communication among people from different countries.
Concerns about Japan's summer heat are noted, but the Expo's operating hours until 22:00 and the cooler evening events should mitigate this. The 30-meter-wide Ring structure might provide shade, and the venue's proximity to the sea breeze at Nanko should offer relatively comfortable weather.

While the 1970 Expo left behind the iconic "Tower of the Sun," is there something similar planned for this Expo?

I believe the world's largest wooden structure, the "Ring," serves as its counterpart. Inspired by Kiyomizu Temple, the Ring spans 30 meters in width and 2 kilometers in circumference. Inside the Ring, exhibitions and events imagining the importance of "life" as a world　community will take place, featuring international pavilions.
The Ring, reminiscent of a massive fortress, will offer various shops, exhibitions, events, workshops, and events on the corridor above. Discussions are ongoing about the post-Expo use of the world's largest wooden structure, the Ring, including its usage and integration with adjacent IR facilities, potentially providing a place for people worldwide to relax and connect.
The 1970 Expo left a significant impact on our future. I hope the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 will similarly leave a positive influence on the future of our youth. (Statement by Mr.Hideo Fujii) 

【Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai】 Global Talk Event ～Let’s Think About the SDGs～

Comparatively, Osaka has very few foreign consulates compared to Tokyo. To continue connecting and developing with the world even after the Expo, utilizing the Ring could be an ideal opportunity. Countries without consulates in Osaka among the 161 participating countries could use the pavilions within the Ring as temporary consulates. Additionally, foreign staff staying in Japan for six months during the Expo could continue their stay, fostering Osaka's connection with the world.
In the Global Community, we plan to regularly interview staff from countries without consulates in Osaka during the Osaka-Kansai Expo and share their perspectives. (Editor-in-Chief, Global Community, Kazumi Miyazaki)

On the five-story GALA wall, artworks by five artists from Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Taiwan) are displayed.

Through the efforts of TEAMEXPO, Staff members at GALA have been diligently working to energize the Osaka-Kansai Expo with the power of entertainment, even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is the interview with Mr. Satoru Sakaguchi(LEFT), a representative of GALA RESORT, and Mr. Lawrence Minamimura(Right), vice president, about their endeavors.

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（Mr.mimamimura said）

During the pandemic, when we couldn't conduct regular business activities, our remaining staff focused on studying English intensively and promoting the allure of music through social media with the help of musicians. We did this so that whenever foreign tourists return, they'll be welcomed. We diligently prepared until the situation returned to normal.

Thanks to these efforts, when foreign tourists did return, we were able to promptly resume our services as before. To enhance the image of our company and industry, we also prioritized recruitment interviews and employee education. Currently, with over 100 people, including employees, dedicated DJs, musicians, and more than 30 part-time staff, we work together to provide nightclub services.

Although nightclub work may carry negative connotations, we take pride in bringing happiness to people through music and entertainment. That's why we emphasize employee training, including special leadership workshops, to instill a sense of pride in our work, which translates into societal contributions.

Furthermore, we've advanced our nightclub management to benefit the public through activities such as neighborhood clean-ups and support for "children's cafeterias."

Our representative, Mr. Sakaguchi, who himself lived in a children's home until he was 16, believes in the importance of supporting children in need of necessities.

To address this, he has launched a nonprofit organization. Staff members at GALA also contribute to these activities, experiencing the significance of social engagement and naturally enhancing their humanity.

What percentage of your customers are foreign tourists? And what efforts are you putting into promotions?

Approximately 60-70% of our customers are foreign tourists, including many repeat visitors and expatriates living in Japan. To cater to this demographic, we prioritize hiring staff proficient in English and promoting understanding and inclusion of the LGBT community, ensuring that everyone can enjoy our music events regardless of nationality or gender.

In terms of promotions, we focus on leveraging social media platforms to announce our events and collaborating with DJs and artists to reach a broader audience. However, our most significant promotional tool remains positive word-of-mouth from satisfied customers. Therefore, we strive to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, as positive experiences lead to positive reviews and contribute to our reputation and staff morale.

What kind of people work as part-time staff members?

Our staff includes individuals proficient in foreign languages and young people who choose to work with us for a defined period as part of their life experience. We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and do not discriminate based on nationality or gender. We want everyone to experience the joy of providing enjoyable music experiences to our customers at GALA, regardless of their background. Especially for those interested in interacting with people from different countries using foreign languages, this job can be fulfilling. While our interview process is rigorous, we encourage anyone interested to take on the challenge.

What do you want to achieve at the Osaka-Kansai Expo?

（Mr.Sakaguchi said）

We aim to showcase at the Osaka-Kansai Expo the potential of using the power of music, especially the "HIPHOP culture," which dominates about 70% of the HIT CHART worldwide and leads youth culture, to create a "peaceful and poverty-free world."

While there may still be a lack of understanding from the authorities, in the United States, many artists possess financial resources and influence comparable to top corporate executives. Similarly, among Japan's Z generation, there are talented individuals earnestly striving to improve society. We want to involve such individuals and believe in the potential of events that transcend musical genres. At the Osaka-Kansai Expo, we aspire to create a space where people from all around the world can acknowledge and respect each other, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, or gender, enabling them to express themselves freely and comfortably.

We also intend to utilize platforms like TEAMEXPO to connect with like-minded groups and individuals, working together to elevate the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, likely a once-in-a-lifetime event, and make it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

• Using the power of music to promote peace and equality from Dotonbori:  Promoting Peace and Equality through the Power of Music

• Protecting the future of children through the power of music:   Protecting the Future of Children through the Power of Music

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GALA RESORT, Tokyo Metropolitan Development Soemoncho Building,

7-9 Soemoncho, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture

Located in the heart of Namba, Osaka, close to the iconic Glico sign, GALA RESORT is Japan's first five-story building dedicated to nightlife. With a capacity of 1500 people, it stands as a central hub for Osaka's nightlife scene. Each floor offers a unique experience with genres like HIPHOP, EDM, K-POP, HOUSE, TECHNO, and TRANCE, where DJs mesmerize the audience with the latest sounds and lighting. World-renowned artists and DJs make regular appearances, attracting a diverse crowd of foreign tourists and repeat visitors to Japan.

GALA　RESORT　https://osaka.gala-resort.jp

Explore the activities of the nonprofit organization Care with Music

https://care-with-music.jp/

Rekindling the Spirit of Herbivore Men Through Taiko Drumming?

 

Actually, starting this year, I have been participating in an internet program called "The Oldest Country in the World, Japan!!" and we've launched a small project called "Tojo Men's School." Despite the grand title, it all began with the addition of Mr. Hirotaka Tanzawa, the head of the Capital Area Aomori Nebuta Hayashi-kai, as a new member of the program. Tanzawa's special skill is playing the Japanese taiko drums. Thus, the main objective of this project is to reinvigorate the spirit of herbivore men through the art of taiko drumming.

Traditionally, the Japanese had a concept of "Kegare" and "Hare." Kegare, written as "気枯れ," is similar to the modern term "stress." On the other hand, Hare, as seen in expressions like "celebration attire," "celebratory appearance," or "celebratory stage," is associated with special occasions and events. In essence, we accumulate stress (Kegare) in our daily lives. Therefore, it's crucial to introduce moments of celebration (Hare) to serve as accents, resetting the accumulated stress. Japan has numerous annual events, and this inclination towards eventfulness is said to be influenced by this cultural sensibility.

Recently, however, many young people aren't going to karaoke, driving, or even going on dates. They are not engaging in activities that allow them to release the stress built up in their daily lives. Surveys even suggest that home has become the top spot for dates. With stress piling up, the taiko drum makes its appearance. Percussion instruments, including taiko drums, directly resonate with the primal instincts inherent in human beings, from African music to the profound spirituality in Japanese traditions. Through the release of this energy, we aim to blow away the herbivore spirit. We are currently recruiting members, so if you're interested, please get in touch. It's open to women as well. Interestingly, it seems that foreigners are more interested in joining than Japanese individuals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Real Meaning of  Foundation Day  of Japan as a Nation

In February, there is National Foundation Day in Japan. Do you know what marks the foundation of Japan? Surprisingly, many people are not aware of this fact. When I ask this question in my lectures, emphasizing that "Japanese people surprisingly don't know much about Japan," over 80% of the audience cannot answer. Even if they attempt an answer, it often relates to the Meiji era or post-war period, showing a misunderstanding. Indeed, a majority of Japanese are unfamiliar with the fundamental establishment of their nation. However, not knowing the foundation of one's country is considered unusual on a global scale.

National Foundation Day in Japan, also known as Kigen Setsu, commemorates the enthronement of the first Emperor, Emperor Jimmu. In terms of the foundation year, this year marks the 2,671st year, making it the oldest continuous national foundation in the world. Denmark, the next oldest, has a history of about 1,100 years, followed by approximately 900 years for the United Kingdom. Some may point out the ancient history of China or Egypt, but this is not about the length of history; it specifically refers to the age of the national foundation. Japan's imperial system, with the Emperor as the national symbol and the unifying force, has been passed down through an imperial genealogy for 125 generations.

This is like a living myth, and Japan's imperial system has garnered immense respect globally. The imperial family in Japan is highly esteemed by royal families and nations worldwide, and their value is recognized more outside Japan than by the Japanese themselves. Therefore, answering "the world's oldest country" when asked about Japan becomes a logically clear statement. Celebrating this historical continuity, Japanese people observe National Foundation Day.

Learn from the keen insights of our predecessors

– Hidetoshi Tojo's Column No.13

Now, this month, I was thinking about what to talk about. Ah, yes, around this time in February, the book "Basics of Shinto Shrines" (published by Ei Publishing) supervised by me should start appearing on the shelves of Seven-Eleven? Well, if everything goes according to schedule. Anyway, hoping that it has been successfully published, this time I would like to talk a bit about Shinto shrines, or rather, the wisdom of our predecessors.

As is well known, I operate the information site "Shrine People," where I collect nationwide shrine information and work on its systematization. However, it's not because I have some spiritual sensitivity. Rather, I am a realist, and seemingly, I have a thinking style that appears contradictory to such themes. So why am I actively studying shrines? It's because I believe there is a universal wisdom in the unique national temperament of the Japanese that can be scientifically understood.

For example, ancient Japanese believed that gods descended to sharp places, and the motif for this is said to be lightning. Of course, today everyone knows this, but it was the same for ancient Japanese. However, modern people might think, "Oh, if they saw that light and heard that roar, without knowing science, they probably thought the gods were angry." But what's really important is that the land where lightning struck becomes fertile for the five grains.

This is actually scientifically proven, and it is even said that the harvest of mushrooms on land where lightning has struck doubles. So, the ancient Japanese knew everything. That's why they held both fear and gratitude towards lightning, expressed thanks as gods, said "thunder" means "the god is roaring," wrote "thunder" as "rain" and "rice field," and wrote "lightning" as "the wife (spouse) of rice." In a way, it was a very rational way of thinking. However, we modern people, perhaps out of arrogance, tend to overestimate science and technology, and have a dislike for the past. But our ancestors, not knowing science, with high sensitivity, could understand the essence.

Shrines are truly a cultural symbol woven with the wisdom of our predecessors. Perhaps there is a universal truth that even we modern people cannot reach, scattered everywhere there. Don't just think of shrines as mere religious facilities. Awareness is constantly present, right next to us.

There is a great leap forward after overcoming a crisis.

March 11, a massive earthquake struck the Tohoku region, including East Japan. As many have already experienced, even in such challenging circumstances, there has been international praise for the diligence of the Japanese people. Reports highlighted the considerate actions of a company employee turned evacuee who, despite exhaustion, sat on the stairs, making way for others. Ironically, the admirable qualities of the Japanese character were shared globally in this way. Nevertheless, it remains true that the Japanese possess a cooperative and resilient spirit, a fundamental strength inherent in their nature.

Historically, Japan has been an agrarian society, evident from the fact that around 80% of the population were farmers until the Edo period. This influence is still visible in our daily lives. For example, Japanese holidays such as the Vernal Equinox Day, Autumnal Equinox Day, New Year's Day, Children's Day, and Labor Thanksgiving Day all have origins in Shinto rituals celebrating abundant harvests. In Japan, holidays are referred to as "shukujitsu" or festival days, emphasizing their connection to religious observances. Even Respect for the Aged Day, by aligning with the agricultural off-season, signifies a time to seek the wisdom of the elderly. The Japanese way of life is deeply rooted in agriculture, combined with the ancient religious concepts of Shinto, giving rise to the distinct qualities of the Japanese character.

This combination of Shinto spirituality and agriculture is the foundation of Japan's unique traits, including cooperation and perseverance. It is not only about Shinto or agriculture individually; it is the synergy of both that defines the functional aspect of these traits. This is not easily replicated, as observed in many developing nations that, despite engaging in primary industries like agriculture, exhibit different national characteristics than Japan.

In the face of the recent disaster, there have been numerous victims. Yet, by invoking the robust spirit of the Japanese people, there is a certainty of recovery. Japan stands as a nation with a unique blend of cooperative spirit and enduring patience.

Japanese Language Quirks:

Logographic and Phonetic Characters

Let's delve into the essence of the uniqueness of the Japanese people through the perspective of written language. In most parts of the world, languages are represented by a single set of characters. However, Japanese people uniquely utilize three types of characters: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Some might argue for the inclusion of romaji and numbers, making it five!

Yet, the significance lies not merely in the number of characters used. Japanese people simultaneously employ two distinct types of characters: hiragana representing phonetics and kanji representing meanings. Kanji characters encapsulate imagery and meaning within each symbol. For example, the character "我" (ware) seemingly denotes oneself, but its true meaning runs deeper. Comprising a serrated blade reminiscent of a saw and a spear, it signifies both a powerful weapon and a dangerous entity. Thus, using "我を出す" (bring out oneself) implies self-assertion, while "我を捨てる" (discard oneself) conveys the inherent danger of "我" (ware).

In contrast, phonetic characters represent sounds without intrinsic meanings. They serve as a straightforward way to convey pronunciation. The flexibility and adaptability of the Japanese language stem from the simultaneous use of these two character types. While some argue that ideographic characters may hinder computational imaginative thinking in scientific contexts, the Japanese people exhibit a flexible and adaptable mindset in utilizing both types of characters. This linguistic versatility might provide additional evidence for the adaptability of the Japanese people on a broader scale.

Let's return to the spirit of "Mottainai"!

In recent years, one of the Japanese words that has gained widespread recognition worldwide is "Mottainai." While most Japanese people have heard this word many times, it is actually considered a concept unique to Japan. The birth of the word "Mottainai" in the West can be traced back to the absence of such a concept.

In ancient times, there was a surname in Japan, "Motai," which originally meant a vessel for holding sake. Over time, those who specialized in making these vessels came to be called "Motai." Sake, then and now, is a precious offering to the gods, and the vessels used for sake are indispensable. The shortage of sake vessels was considered disrespectful and improper toward the gods, giving rise to the idea that "having no sake vessel (Motainai) is disrespectful to the gods."

While the authenticity of this origin is uncertain, Shinto, the indigenous spirituality of Japan, held the belief in reverence for divine spirits in all things (the concept of Yorishiro). In ancient times, many Japanese felt a sense of awe for all aspects of the natural world. This underlying philosophy has had a significant influence on the concept of "Mottainai."

Though it is sometimes written as "勿体ない," using the Japanese kanji characters, the exact meaning of "勿体" conveys a sense of weightiness or dignity, indicating something inappropriate for oneself. While this use slightly deviates from the original meaning of "Mottainai," it reflects the Japanese inclination to respect others and be aware of one's own position. Japanese people, through expressions like "Mottainai," convey a unique perspective that respects others and their surroundings on a global scale.

（Shrine Person Operator, Representative of Culture J, Ltd., Hidetoshi Tojo）

Hidetoshi Tojo was born in 1972 in Saitama Prefecture and is the representative director of Culture J, Ltd. He is the direct descendant of Hideki Tojo and the 18th head of the family. Exploring a unique social welfare model in Japan, he turned his attention to the presence of shrines and Shinto. Advocating for cultural tourism through shrines, he aims to revitalize new local communities and cultural entertainment.

1:　"What is True Culture? Understanding Japan"

2:　Real Meaning of Foundation Day of Japan as a Nation

3: There is a great leap forward after overcoming a crisis.

4: Let's return to the spirit of "Mottainai"!

5: "Understanding Japan's Obon Festival"

6: "The Pink Book for Fulfilling the Whims of Adult Women"

7: "The cultural roots of Japanese New Year

8:Rekindling the Spirit of Herbivore Men Through Taiko Drumming?

9:　"Publishing 'Proof of Japanese Identity' - Column by Hidetoshi Tojo, No. 10"

10: "Publishing 'Proof of the Japanese' - Part 2 - Hidetoshi Tojo's Serial Column No. 11"

11: "For the Japanese, What Does 'Work' Mean? - Hidetoshi Tojo's Serial Column No. 12"

12: Learn from the keen insights of our predecessors – Hidetoshi Tojo's Column No.13

13: Japanese Language Quirks: Logographic and Phonetic Characters

14: "What Does 'Shikinen Sengu' Mean to the Japanese? - Hidetoshi Tōjō's Column No. 15"

15: Cultivation Required in a Global Society? - Column by Hidetoshi Tojo, No.16"

16:　"Publication of 'Shrine Tourism'!! Hidetoshi Tojo's Serial Column No. 17"

 "What Does 'Shikinen Sengu' Mean to the Japanese?

　- Hidetoshi Tōjō's Column No. 15"

"Significance of Shikinen Sengu: Ise Grand Shrine and Izumo Grand Shrine"

This year holds special importance in the Shinto shrine industry as both the Ise Grand Shrine and Izumo Grand Shrine, considered particularly vital in the shrine community, are undergoing Shikinen Sengu, a periodic relocation and reconstruction of the main shrine.

In Ise, this is referred to as "Shikinen Sengu," meaning the "scheduled relocation" of the main shrine. This event occurs approximately every 20 years, symbolizing renewal and cyclical life patterns. Similarly, Izumo Grand Shrine is undergoing the "Honden Senza-sai" or the "Main Hall Relocation Ceremony," also known as the "Great Shikinen Sengu," after a hiatus of 60 years. Notably, both shrines are experiencing Shikinen Sengu in the same year, a historical first.

The reasons for conducting Shikinen Sengu are not entirely clear, but one common understanding is to preserve and pass down shrine construction techniques and traditions. With the diminishing demand for shrine carpenters, this practice helps ensure the continuity of these skills.

For the Ise Grand Shrine, there are various theories, including intentionally lowering the lifespan of the main shrine to maintain its freshness. The shrine's unique construction without using foundation stones for pillars is cited as a deliberate strategy to reduce its longevity.

Other explanations involve the influence of the "Sangen Kuyō" (Three Elements and Nine Divisions) calendar, which calculates energy flows. Some theories suggest that imposing the burden of Shikinen Sengu on devotees helps anchor their faith and elevates their consciousness. Despite the seemingly dubious psychological aspects, it is undeniable that Shikinen Sengu involves substantial financial investment. The budget for Ise Grand Shrine's Shikinen Sengu is estimated to exceed 55 billion yen, considering the entire shrine complex.

The Shikinen Sengu at Ise Grand Shrine is scheduled for October 2nd. If you have the opportunity, consider visiting both shrines this year. It might provide insights into something deeply valued by a Japanese individual.