Shopping Guide
In the run-up to this year’s J-Pop Summit Festival, here’s a breakdown of what to expect at SF’s biggest J-culture bash.
First and foremost, you’re covered for J-music. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu will take the stage in the city’s Union Square on July 28, from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The concert doesn’t cost a thing to attend, so make it out if you can. Kylee, human beatboxer Daichi, and four-piece girl rock band LoVendoЯ – led by Reina Tanaka, former star of Morning Musume – will all also be performing at the landmark venue. There are gigs throughout the weekend at various locations, so check the website to get the full schedule.
A key attraction for this year’s J-Pop Summit will be the inaugural San Francisco Japan Film Festival. The first full-fledged Japanese film festival to be held in Northern California and the Bay Area will launch at the New People Cinema in conjunction with the 2013 J-Pop Summit on July 27 and run for one week, with the last screening on Aug. 4.
Like pop art and illustrations? Then you’ll have to check out one of Japan’s most sought-after illustrators known for the character designs on the animated film Blood: The Last Vampire who will be paying a visit to the festival on July 27 and 28. To celebrate his latest book, Katsuya Terada 10 Ten: 10 Year Retrospective, the artist will hold an autograph session and demonstrate his freehand drawing on a blank wall.
Food buffs are also in for treat. Taking place on both days of the festival, the “Pop Gourmet Food Festival” will feature more than a dozen of the Bay Area’s most popular mobile food eateries offering a wide assortment of innovative Japanese and Asian-influenced cuisine along with other sweets and delectable treats. The food festival will be located at the intersection of Post St., Webster St, and Fillmore St. at the gateway to Japantown.
Every year, this event gets bigger and better, and this year is no different. Check out the website to get the full timetable of events.
Source: MTV 81
