From emerging Asian art to a devil-repelling rite, there’s something for everyone across the archipelago. If you’re planning or organizing something cool, send us an email to have your event listed here.
Monday: Emerging ink (Fukuoka)
Yuki Nishimoto: Ryu no Kiseki Fukuoka
An emerging light of sumi-e ink drawing, Yuki Nishimoto hosts his first solo exhibition in Fukuoka. Nishimoto brings a deep background in traditional brush strokes with a fearless imagination that ropes in every kind of subject from athletes to rock stars. Only 29, he is attracting growing attention both at home and abroad. This show presents about 100 pieces including a giant 30-meter dragon, as well as projection mapping to exhibit Nishimoto’s creations with a high-tech flair.
When & Where
- Jan 29-Feb 11
- 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Fukuoka Asian Art Museum - Map
- ¥800
Tuesday: Chinese daydream (Tokyo)
Photo: The Coloured Sky: New Women II 2014, Video installation, color, sound © Yang Fudong. Courtesy of Foundation Louis VuittonYang Fudong “The Coloured Sky: New Women II
Produced under the artistic direction of the Fondation Louis Vuitton, this exhibition of Chinese artist Yang Fudong is part of the “Hors-les-murs” program, showcasing previously unseen holdings. Since the early 1990s, Yang Fudong has been examining the complexities of contemporary Chinese society from a symbolic perspective. Formally trained as a painter, Fudong has developed a body of work comprised of videos, films, installations and photographs. Discover this major figure of Chinese contemporary art through the presentation of a poetic work, “The Coloured Sky: New Women II.”
When & Where
- Jan 30-Mar 11
- 12-8 p.m.
- Espace Louis Vuitton, Tokyo - Map
- Free
Wednesday: Illuminated Shinto (Miyazaki)
Takachiho Gorge Illumination
A narrow chasm cut through volcanic basalt by the Gokase River, the Takachiho Gorge is not only a popular tourist attraction, it’s also a spot revered for its Shinto spiritual significance. Recognized as a historically significant night view, the Takachiho Gorge illumination is particularly luminous for the next few weeks, when the Manai Falls (voted one of the nation’s most beautiful) shine thanks to cutting-edge LED lighting technology.
When & Where
- Jan 31-Feb 19
- 6-10 p.m.
- Oshioi Mitai, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture - Map
- Free
Thursday: Bassheads unite (Tokyo)
Back to Chill
For bass music heads and those looking to dip their toes into the dark waters of underground dubstep’s deep bass frequencies, the long-running Back to Chill parties are not to be missed. Launched by Tokyo’s Goth-Trad in 2006, the event revolves around the producer’s gelatinous productions, delivered in bone-rattling high-fidelity by the Broad Axe soundystem. Each month the faithful gather to hear Goth-Trad deliver the low-end frequencies along with a stable of regulars and guests.
When & Where
- Feb 1
- 11 p.m.-5 a.m.
- Club Asia, Tokyo - Map
- ¥2,500
Friday: West Coast house (Tokyo)
Solar and DJ Nobu
The Wiggle Room crew return for their second event at Contact after their hugely successful party last August featuring Holland’s Sandrien. This time the Wiggle Room crew welcome special guests Solar and DJ Nobu playing variations on their long, deep and funky techno styles. Solar is no stranger to Japan having played two years in a row at the Rural Festival. Expect this San Francisco native to bring some of the West Coast magic that has made him one of that city’s biggest draws. Also playing that evening will be Japan’s own DJ Nobu who needs no introduction here.
When & Where
- Feb 2
- Midnight-5 a.m.
- Contact, Tokyo - Map
- ¥3,500
Saturday: Devil driving (Nagoya)
Setsubun at Osukannon Temple
On Feb. 3, people across Japan will intone “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” ("Demons outside! Good Luck inside!") as they drive out the demons by hurling beans at them. Setsubun marks the last day of winter on the traditional calendar and temples around the nation put on rituals display. If in Nagoya, the Osukannon is particularly well-known for its Setsubun festival, with a large stage set up for the ritual bean-throwing. Crowds gather to catch the legumes as the rite gets underway around 3 p.m.
When & Where
- Feb 3
- 3 p.m.
- Osu Kannon Temple, Nagoya - Map
- Free
Sunday: Comic storytelling (Osaka)
Tennojimura-yose English Rakugo
Rakugo is an ancient form of Japanese comedic storytelling told by comics who are often seated on zabuton in traditional garb. It’s said that much contemporary Japanese comedy emerged from its conventions. Rare is the chance, however, to hear it in English. Tennojimura-yose (Tennoji Community Rakugo Performance) English Rakugo presents a series of performances aimed at visitors from abroad and foreign residents in the Kansai area. To be featured are skits including “A man in a Hurry” and “A China guy or Japan guy?”
When & Where
- Feb 4
- 2:30 p.m.
- Sanno Fukushi Kaikan, Osaka - Map
- ¥500
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