Tokyo Photo News February 2016

On February 10, a ceremony to appoint Tokyo Brand Ambassadors and an event to promote ideas and examples of how to use the "&TOKYO" brand logo were held at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The Tokyo Brand Ambassador system aims to bolster the Tokyo Brand through the appointment of figures capable of promoting the brand message in Japan and abroad. Having received their appointment from the governor, French restaurant owner and chef Kiyomi Mikuni, actor and Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia founder Tetsuya Bessho, and performer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu each spoke of their eagerness to represent the Tokyo Brand.

(February 10, 2016.)

On February 10, the Meeting with Governor Masuzoe in Ota event was held at Ikegami Hall in Ota Ward. Under the theme for the event "Do it now! Making Tokyo the world's safest and most secure city, " and in light of the upcoming five year anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the governor led a discussion with about 400 residents of Ota Ward and students of Tokyo Metropolitan Omori High School on rethinking what can be done now to raise self-help and mutual help capabilities, including stockpiling goods at home and disaster preparedness activities in the community.

(February 10, 2016.)

On February 18, about 70 red and white plum trees blossomed in Shiba Park's plum garden. The group of plum trees originally grew in the Tsunohazu district of Shinjuku, and, from the Edo period, was called the ginsekai or beautiful snowy landscape when in bloom. However, the trees were transplanted to their current location around 1908. Many events are held at the annual plum festival, including performances featuring the koto, a traditional Japanese instrument, and outdoor tea ceremonies, bringing many tourists to the park.

(February 18, 2016.)

On February 28, the Tokyo Marathon 2016 was held, marking its tenth anniversary. The race capacity was raised by 1,000 from last year, allowing 37,000 runners to participate. Runners started in front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, passed through Iidabashi, in front of the Imperial Palace, through Shinagawa, Ginza, Asakusa, and Tsukiji to arrive at the finish line at Tokyo Big Sight. With over 1.5 million spectators along the course, the Marathon Festa was also held, featuring musical, dance, and other performances to cheer on the runners at 28 locations, as part of this major early-spring event that unites Tokyo.

(February 28, 2016.)