japan
Page 43
Dream machines
From robotic nurses to submersible aircraft, science fiction is close to becoming reality. Monocle tracks down five innovative high-tech firms on the brink of achieving great things in 2009.
Peter Pan pensioners
With the world’s fastest ageing population, Japan's businesses are creating stylish care homes and grandchild robots for the elderly. Other nations should take note of the opportunities in this booming sector.
Power of three
Beyond Copenhagen and Barcelona, which design cities are on the rise? We predict three lesser-known metropolises that are set to become the next global design hubs thanks to investment and organisation.
Space station
Retired architect Shigemi Asano teamed up with Tezuka Architects to create a minimalist home that marries modernity with local tradition, leaving the views of the Japanese countryside to speak for themselves.
Expo. 18: Sumo
The ancient art of sumo is under threat from dwindling numbers of homegrown wrestlers and numerous scandals. Can fresh leadership in the Japan Sumo Association clean up the sport and restore its fundamentals?
Inventory
A few of our favourite things, including a new mobile phone by Bic and a waste disposal unit by Loofen. Plus, where to find the best ryokan at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Well stacked
A Buenos Aires bookshop with the largest collection of photography books in South Africa.
Jean Touitou
Fashion designer Jean Touitou enjoys good food and eating in down-to-earth settings. For his ‘last meal’ he has chosen Maisen, a tonkatsu restaurant on a quiet back street in Tokyo’s Jingumae district.
Tokyo story
As part of our series on foreign media coverage of the US election, Aya Igarashi of ‘The Yomiuri Shimbun’ explains why Japan is worried about a Democrat in the White House.
Bread winner
After 40 years of selling Danish pastries in Japan, Andersen has opened in Denmark. The firm is giving rivals a run for their money using only the best natural ingredients.
