Forget the hustle and bustle of daytime Tokyo. As the sun dips below the horizon, a whole new world awakens in the neon-lit capital. CNN’s upcoming special, “By Night: Tokyo” takes viewers on an electrifying journey through the city’s vibrant nightlife, exploring its coolest subcultures and hidden culinary gems.
Meet Johnny “Daigo” Yamashita, a living embodiment of 1950s rockabilly with a Japanese twist. This 30-something icon rocks the streets with his pompadour hairstyle and a band that blends classic Western rock and roll with a distinctly Japanese sound. Witness his infectious energy as he keeps the rockabilly spirit alive in Tokyo’s electrifying nightlife scene.
Then, join SHIMA, a Tokyo-born, LA-based music producer, singer, and DJ who embodies the city’s cultural fusion. Witness how her dual heritage shapes her electronic music, a captivating blend of cutting-edge sounds and her Japanese roots. CNN’s “By Night: Tokyo” follows SHIMA to the trendy Shimokitazawa district, a hub for young artists, where she immerses herself in the lively AWA Odori Festival, capturing sounds for her latest track.
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But Tokyo’s nightlife isn’t just about music. As the city with the most Michelin stars in the world, it boasts an unparalleled culinary scene. CNN’s “By Night: Tokyo” takes viewers inside MAZ, a renowned fine-dining establishment in Akasaka, the brainchild of Virgilio Martínez, the mastermind behind Lima’s Central restaurant. Meet Venezuelan-born chef Santiago Fernández, who helms MAZ’s two Michelin stars. After a whirlwind dinner service, CNN joins Chef Fernández on a late-night visit to his favorite upscale bistro in Shirokane, offering a glimpse into the hidden gems that keep Tokyo’s foodies satisfied long after dark.
Get ready to be dazzled! Dive into the neon-lit world of Tokyo with CNN’s “By Night: Tokyo”
Airtimes for the 30-minute special:
Saturday, 12th October at 12:30pm, 6:30pm and 11pm PhST/HKT
Monday, 14th October at 5:30am PhST/HKT
CNN’s “By Night: Tokyo” Advanced Review:
CNN’s “By Night: Tokyo” offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant nocturnal scene. The special skillfully weaves together three distinct narratives, each showcasing a unique facet of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Johnny Yamashita’s rockabilly-infused journey is a delightful treat for music lovers. His infectious energy and unwavering passion for his craft are evident in every note. The juxtaposition of his Western-inspired style with the backdrop of Tokyo’s modern cityscape creates a visually stunning and culturally intriguing experience.
SHIMA’s exploration of Shimokitazawa provides a glimpse into the city’s thriving arts scene. Her perspective as a bilingual artist offers a fresh perspective on the fusion of cultures that permeates Tokyo’s nightlife. The inclusion of the AWA Odori Festival adds a layer of authenticity and excitement to her segment.
The culinary adventure with Chef Santiago Fernández is a must-watch for food enthusiasts. His passion for Peruvian cuisine and his knowledge of Tokyo’s hidden dining gems are impressive. The contrast between the high-end fine dining at MAZ and the intimate atmosphere of the late-night bistro showcases the diversity of Tokyo’s culinary offerings.
Overall, “By Night (Tokyo)” is a well-crafted documentary that captures the essence of the city’s nightlife. The filmmakers have skillfully balanced the three narratives, ensuring that each segment stands on its own while contributing to the overall theme. The stunning visuals and captivating storytelling make this a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring Tokyo’s vibrant after-dark scene.