TOKYOMANGO

CDs catered towards relaxation sessions with dogs and cats

From the company that makes Bowlingual comes a new product on August 26, a pair of CDs called Relaxing with Dogs and Relaxing with Cats. The two contain classical music tracks with beats that match the heartbeat of dogs and cats, respectively &mdash 80-100bpm for dogs, a little higher for cats. How awesome is that? My mom always makes fun of me because I used to play the classical music radio station for Ruby when she was a baby. I don't know if that's the reason, but she is super chill.

via MySpi (Japanese)

Thriller figurines made in honor of MJ's life

This wonderful duo of Michael Jackson figurines a la Thriller were found by @Densho at WonderCon. (At least I think that's what the Spanish says...) The text on the poster reads "King of Pop Forever, 1958-2009." I am not a figurine collector, but if I was, I would totally get these.

When I was in Japan in February doing research for the 2D love story, I talked to several figurine makers and collectors. It's amazing how much detail goes into making them look perfect.

via Paiki.com

Video from Okinawa aquarium with whale sharks

Apparently, this beautiful aquarium tank in Okinawa is the second largest in the world. Whale sharks! Last year I swam with one on Maui.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Thanks, Ben!)

Learn Samurai techniques and watch Zatoichi at the Asian Art Museum

The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco is having what promises to be a fun event on Thursday, August 27, in conjunction with their Samurai exhibit. It's the latest in their Matcha series, and they're going to have a famous samurai swordmaster teaching Iaido. Also, they're showing Zatoichi.

Way of the Sword at the Asian Art Museum

Hamura Saimin, the best noodle place on Kauai

I just got back from Kauai, and ate twice at this restaurant, Hamura Saimin. It was started by an enterprising Japanese wife and husband, and I think it's now run by their daughter. They make saimin, a Hawaiian version of ramen with spam, cabbage, eggs, dumplings, etc. I love how Hawaiian food is a delicious assimilation of the best parts of different cuisine. And yes, I think Spam is delicious, you just can't think about what's in it.