Jan 15th 2017 O.A.
CES 2017
World’s largest electronic trade show, CES was held from January 5th at Las Vegas for 4 days. Marking their 50th year, about 3800 digital equipments and consumer electronical appliance makers from all over the world showed their newest models and technologies at the event. The spotlight went to the car manufacturers this year. In recent years, the CES has been the place of announcing new car technologies. The three big automakers from Japan participated for the first time. Honda announced their concept car using the autopilot technology. They also announced their motorcycle using their balance control technology from the robot, Asimo for the first time to the world. This year was Nissan’s first appearance at the CES. They announced their autopilot technology formed with the cooperation of NASA and also stated they are planning an experimental test for the public road. Toyota announced, Concept-I which syncs the vehicle and the driver using the artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The AI learns the driver’s habits and hobbies, supporting the driver to enjoy their perfect drive depending on their physical condition of that day. CES is changing between the years and this year was another success for many technologies were displayed that’ll make our lives more richer.
Kotohajime 2017
“Koto hajime” – New Year’s purification ceremony was held at the Little Tokyo’s Aratani Theater by the JACCC. Artistic Director, Hirokazu Kosaka directed the ceremony with a motif of the Shintoism ceremony and various performances were held. “First Scenery” was this year’s theme and amazed the audience. Performances by the Colburn School’s Trudl Dance Institute performing contemporary dance and Traditional Indian dance was performed by the Arpana Dance Company. Traditional Japanese dance was also performed by Gankyo Nakamura and Bando Ryu Kyo No Kai. Ikkyu: The Rite of Purification (Archery) , a group formed by the LA Kyudo Association appeared at the finale. With the musical performance by L’eclat quintet playing the classic number “Bolero”, Hirokazu Kosaka pulled the first arrow and hit the bullseye. Afterwards, President & CEO of JACCC, Leslie Ito and Consul General, Akira Chiba stated their New Year’s greetings. Then, the Kagami biraki sake barrel breaking was held. Cheers were held celebrating the New Year with the attendees.