This special issue began because we love hearing what people are passionate about. We interviewed a woman who wrote her thesis on cheerleading, a kitchen tool-obsessed business owner in Kappabashi, and a natto expert who shares her love for fermented soybeans on social media. There are plenty of nerdy obsessions within MATCHA’s editorial team, too. From a serious Japanese rock fan to a dedicated Comic Market visitor, to an editor enthralled with hilly roads in Tokyo, there’s a lot of unique interests to discover!
01
Did you know Tokyo has many hilly roads? From slopes that Japanese idol groups are named after, to hilly views famous in anime and dramas, there is hidden beauty in the ups and downs of this capital city. MATCHA introduces nine Tokyo hills that you’ll want to climb and capture on camera yourself.
02
Visual kei is a type of Japanese rock music that is incredibly unique in sound and style. Enjoying great popularity worldwide, it is the reason for many people to come to Japan or learn Japanese. Since I am a big fan of this rock genre myself, let me introduce to you what visual kei is all about.
03
Natto is considered one of the healthiest foods in Japan, but many don't know how to make these sticky fermented soybeans delicious. Read to learn about easy-to-eat natto, vegan and vegetarian recipes, and how to enjoy this nutritious traditional food, with tips from a natto guru and influencer.
04
Whether it's for manga, anime, or videogames, fans of these subcultures all dream of visiting Japan! Our Thai editor, a self-professed otaku, introduces activities that any otaku should enjoy in Japan aside from shopping for merchandise, such as anime location tours and visiting butler cafes.
05
The Kappabashi district in Tokyo is kitchenware heaven! We visited a cooking supply store trusted by culinary professionals and the public. Some of the innovative products here are created by the owner himself. He introduces five unique tools that will revolutionize your time in the kitchen.
06
If you've ever watched a sporting event in Japan, you may have noticed the cheerleaders' effortless acrobatic performances. What is the cheerleaders' role in Japan and how is it like to be one? We interviewed a cheerleading expert who gave us a brand new perspective upon enjoying sporting events.
07
Most people in Japan have an IC card such as Suica or Pasmo, which they use for transportation and shopping. But there are over ten different types of IC cards out there! In this article, a MATCHA member shares little-known facts about IC cards and her prized collection.
ISSUE 03 : Japan's Otaku Culture
MATCHA Monthly Feature 2020.3.25
