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Metropolis is a free distribution full-color 64-80 page weekly city guide and classified ads magazine published by Crisscross K.K. for Tokyo's English-speaking community. It is the highest distribution English magazine in Japan, with 30,000 copies distributed each week throughout Tokyo, Yokohama and Chiba.
Originally known as Tokyo Classified, the first issue was published on February 26, 1994, as a four-page classified ad sheet. It was originally distributed as an insert in The Daily Yomiuri and The Japan Times and by hand at various Tokyo locations popular with the English-speaking community, which had grown substantially due to the worldwide attention given to Japan's bubble economy. Due to censorship of classified ads by The Daily Yomiuri, the company severed its newspaper distribution and created an independent distribution network, mainly to embassies, hotels, record stores, bars and restaurants. Metropolis is the only English magazine in Japan to have its circulation verified by Japan's Audit Bureau of Circulations.
The magazine comprises four sections: feature articles and interviews relevant to expatriate life in Japan; an extensive Tokyo events guide; bar and restaurant listings; and over 1000 classified ads each week. All non-commercial classifieds, those sent in by private individuals and social organisations, are placed free of charge.
In 2003, the magazine was renamed Metropolis and the format changed to include a weekly news round up and commentary on Japan-related political, social and community issues, such as Yasukuni Shrine, whaling, Women's rights in Japan, and Japan's involvement in World War II.
The magazine regularly features interviews with Japanese and foreign celebrities, and has included interviews with Tokyo governor Shintaro Ishihara, footballer Nakata Hidetoshi and Peruvian ex-President Alberto Fujimori.
In 2004 the magazine was involved in a controversy surrounding convicted drug smuggler Nick Baker. Initially the magazine supported Baker, but reversed its position when new information came to light.
The magazine runs the "Glitterball", an annual Halloween party at Velfarre, a large club in Roppongi. The party, which is attended by over 1600 people, raises funds for various children's charities in Japan, including the YMCA Challenged Childrens' Project.
External links
- Metropolis website
- Article about Metropolis' history
- Mark Devlin speech to Tokyo Entrepreneurs' association