Extraordinary “experience nature” programs in 2018 summer offered by “Hoshinoya” throughout Japan

30.April.2018 | FEATURES / SPOT

Japan’s first luxury hotel that offers extraordinary experiences “Hohinoya” is offering many kinds of programs. In this article, I will introduce to you some programs that they are going to offer from summer of 2018.

 

 Hoshinoya Taketomi Island “personalized tour with guides acquainted with Iriomote Island.”

“Hoshinoya Taketomi Island” located on Taketomi Island, Okinawa will offer activity tours where jungle butlers acquainted with Japan’s last treasure spot, Iriomote Island will arrange the tours. The contents and the schedule of the tour can be adjusted at your own will. On this tour, you can stay at Taketomi Island and enjoy the jungle of Iriomote Island and the rich nature of the Yaeyama Island Chain.

 

■Information

 

Iriomote Island Jungle Butler

Period: throughout the year

Fixed number: one group per day

Reservation must be made 7 days before (by 17:00) via Hoshinoya Taketomi Ilsnad’s HP

 

 

Hoshinoya Karuizawa “Summer-Season-Limited Special Seats of Morino Hotori café&bar”

At “Mori no Hotori café&bar” lodgers of “Hoshinoya Karuizawa” located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture can use offer summer-season-limited seats between the 1st of July, 2018 to the 31st of August. This spce will be prepared under the concept of “offering a roofless private space.” They are planning to offer 3 kinds of Japanese cocktails related to the Shinshu Area. Let’s enjoy the nature of Karuizawa which is known as one of the most famous summer retreats in Japan.

 

■Information

 

“Mori no Hotori café&bar Special Seats”

Period: 2018/07/01 to 08/31 (fixed holiday is undecided)

Time: 20::00 to 23:00 (L.O. 22:30)

Fixed number: two groups (two persons per group)

Only the lodgers of Hoshinoya Karuizawa can use the seats

Fees: drink fee + charging fee (500 yen) (tax included, service fee (10%) not included) ※lodging fee is not included
Making a reservation is unnecessary

The seats cannot be used depending on the weather condition.

 

Hoshinoya Fuji “Summer Wild Game Dinner”

Japan’s first grumping resort “Hoshinoya Fuji” located in Yamanashi Prefecture will offer an experience-based dinner plan named “Summer Wild Game Dinner” where you can enjoy eating special menus items cooked in a Dutch oven in the open-air dining space. The summer-season limited seasonal menu itmes use “venison” and “brawn.” They offer 5 kinds of courses that use rich flavored wild game combined with Yamanashi Prefecture’s (the prefecture is known as “the fruits kingdom”) seven kinds of summer fruits.

 

■Information

 

 “Summer Wild Game Dinner”

Period: 2018/07/01 to 08/31

Time: 18:00~, 18:30~

Fixed number: six groups (18 persons)

Lodgers who are older than 13 years old can participate in this dinner program

Fee: 15,000 yen per person (tax, service fee (10%) and lodging fee is not included)

Reservations must be made one before (by 18:00)

Reservations can be made via the official website

※Please note that the menu itmes and ingredients might be changed according to the buying situation

 

Hoshinoya Tokyo “2 Days and 3 Nights Spa Program where you can rest at aJapanese accommodation / Shinkokyu (deep breath) Yojo (rest)”

The spa program named “Shinkokyu Yojo” will start from the 1st of June 2018 at a Japanese accommodation in Tokyo. You can learn about how to maintain your health and a balanced mind and body by taking a deep breath. The program includes stretching lesson, an aroma experience, spa treatment, healthy meal and hot spring experience. Let’s learn about the method of breathing to become healthy.

 

■Information

 

Shinkokyu Yojo

Starting date: 2018/06/01

Fee: 147,000 yen per person (tax and service fee (10%) are not included)

Fixed number: 1 group (2 persons) per day

Please make a reservation via the website 14 days before

Only the lodgers of the accommodation can participate in this program

 

 

Hoshinoya Kyoto “Activity where you can observe cormorant fishing, a summer feature in Arashiyama”

“Hoshinoya Kyoto” located in Kyoto, Arashiyama will hold “Private Ukai (cormorant fishing) Kanshobune (observing from the boat).” In this activity, you can observe the summer feature of Arashiyama “cormorant fishing” at “Oi River” which flows in front of the accommodation. Tea ceremony dishes using the motifs of Arashiyama’s views and histories will be served to the participants. You can also listen to the sound of Shamisen and drink Champaign.

 

■Information

 

“Private Ukai Kanshobene”

Date: 2018/07/01 to 09/23 (except 08/16)

Time: 19:00~ (18:30~ – 09/01)

Departing/arriving place: Hoshinoya Kyoto

Fee: 58,300 yen per person (tax and service fee (10%) are not included) ※lodging fee is not included

Only the lodgers of Hoshinoya Kyoto can participate in this program

Fixed number: 1 group per day (1 group – 2 to 4 persons)

Reservation must be made 7 days before via the website

 

 

 Hoshinoya Kyoto “Staying Experience in Okuarashiyama”

“Hoshinoya Kyoto” will hold 5 summer/waterfront activities named “Okuarashiyama Noryo Taizai (staying experience) from the 1st of July 2018 to the 31st of August. The activity includes events such as “Okuarashiyama’s Noryoyuka,” “Mizube no Yaza” where you can experience stretching/meditation lessons at nighttime and “Noryobune Lunch” where you can enjoy eating lunch on a boat. Why not avoid the summer heat and enjoy the culture of Okuarashima filled with maple trees.

 

Why not participate in one of the events noted above this coming summer!

 

 

■Information

Hoshino Resort official website;

https://www.hoshinoresorts.com

 

 

RECOMMENDED ENTRIES

  • Tulips and Nemophilas are in full bloom! 6 recommended flower festivals in Japan

    17.April.2018 | FEATURES / SPOT

    Pollen dust is on the decline nowadays. Where are you planning to go this coming Golden Week? Below are 6 recommended flower festivals in Japan.

     

    Ibaraki Komorebi Mori no Ibaraido

    In this festival, you can enjoy the contrast of spring flowers (nemophilas and tulips) in a flower garden (2,500 square meters) located in front of the entrance gate to the experience-based agricultural park in Ibaraki Prefecture, “Komorebi Mori no Ibaraido.”

     

    ■Information

    Komorebi Mori no Ibaraido

    Address:2060-1, Kimiyama, Inahikishi, Ibaraki Prefecture

    Entrance fee: adults (junior high school students and older) 1,000 yen

    Children (4 years old ~ elementary school students)

    Below 3 years old - free
    TEL:029-892-3911
    Website: http://www.ibaraido.co.jp/

     

     

    Gunma Flower Park “Tulip Festa”

    In this festival, you can enjoy viewing about 190 thousand flowers (50 kinds) from early April to late April. The main, big flower garden has been renewed, so you can walk inside the garden filled with tulips!

    Also, Yaeszakuras (sakura) centering around Sekiyama and field flowers will bloom here and there.

     

    ■Information

    Gunma Flower Park

    Address: 2471-1, Kashiwaguramachi, Maebashishi, Gunma Prefecture

    Business hours: 9:00 to 17:00

    Entrance fee: adults (high school students and older) – 700 yen

    Children (junior high school students and younger) – free

    Website: http://www.flower-park.jp/

    Tulip Festa

    Period: 2018/04/07 (Sat.) to 04/30 (Mon. – holiday)
    Website:http://www.flower-park.jp/flower-gardens/index/no/2

     

     

    Mount Rokko National Park (Himalaya no Hikyo ni Saku Hanabana ~Aoi Keshi to Shinku no Sakunage~”

    Mount Rokko National Park will hold a special event highlighting flowers in the backlands such as Himalaya mountains centering around “Himalayan blue poppy.” About 1,000 blue poppies will bloom in the rock garden and rare varieties such as the red alpine rose named, Rhododendron arboreum will be exhibited.

     

    ◼︎Information

    Mount Rokko National Park

    Address: 4512-150, Kitarokko, Rokkosancho, Nadaku, Kobeshi

    Business hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (last entrance – 16:30)
    TEL:078-891-1247
    Website:https://www.rokkosan.com/hana/

    Himalaya no Hikyo ni Saku Hanabana ~Aoi Keshi to Shinku no Shakunage~

    Period: 04/28 (Sat.) to 06/24 (Sun.)


     

     

    Saga Prefecture – Mifunayama Rakuen “Mifuneyama Rakuen Hana Matsuri”

    Mifunayama Raken is designated as a National Treasure and you can enjoy viewing many kinds of spring flowers such as azaleas, Japanese wisterias and spring maples.

    Detailed information:https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/102871

     

    ■Information

    Mifuneyama Rakuen Hanamatsuri

    Address: Mifuneyama Rakuen, 4100, Oaza Takeo, Takeocho, Takeochi, Saga Prefecture

    Period: 2018/05/06 (Sun.)

    Business hours: 8:00 to 18:30

    Entrance fee – adults 700 yen (elementary school students and older) / junior high school students (elementary school students and younger) 300 yen


    Website:https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000017.000015983.htm

     

     

    Garden Museum Hiei

    Garden Museum Hiei (17,000 square meters) is an impressionist styled garden which was opened on the 14th of April.

    Tulips which survived the severe winter coldness will bloom from the 28th of April (Sat.) to the 6th of May (Sun.). The garden is also offering seeds of four leaves clover in April.

     

    ◼︎Information

    Garden Museum Hiei

    Address: 4th Avenue, Shimeigadake, Shakuragatani, Shugakuin, Sakyoku, Kyotoshi

    Business hours: 10:00 to 17:30

    Entrance fee: adults – 1,200 yen, children (elementary school students) – 600 yen
    TEL:075-707-7733
    Website:https:www.garden-museum-hiei.co.jp/

     

     

    Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch “Ajisai Masturi”

    Ajisai Matsuri (‘Hydrangea Festival’) will take place at Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki from June 2 to July 1, showcasing 1,250 varieties of hydrangea. There will also be a market where you can buy a variety of plans you’re interested in, as well as go on a tour by a hydrangea expert, a hydrangea light-up show at night, and more.

    Detailed information:https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/102391

     

    ■Information

    Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch

    Address: Huis Ten Bosch Cho, Saseboshi, Nagasaki Prefecture

    Business hours: 9:00 to 22:00 ※may differ depending on the season and day

    Fixed holiday: None
    TEL:0570-064-110
    Website: https://www.huistenbosch.co.jp/

     

    Please refer to this article when you want to visit a spring flower festival.

     

     

  • MOSHI MOSHI BOX Questionnaire to 100 Foreigners: #2 “Where are you heading to next in Tokyo?”

    12.April.2018 | FEATURES / SPOT

    Hi, everyone. I’m Shiota, the director of the MOSHI MOSHI BOX.

    This is the second entry to our already-popular series where we ask questions to 100 foreigners. We give questionnaires about Japan to foreign tourists that come into the MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center.

    The 2nd question we asked people was “Where are you heading to next in Tokyo?” Let’s take a look at the answers!

     

     

    1st Place: Shibuya (34 Votes)
    The most popular answer was Shibuya, which got more than double that of the 2nd place rank. It’s common to see lots of foreign tourists taking photos of Shibuya’s famous Scramble Crossing. In the questionnaire answers, a lot of people were planning to go there for fashion and shopping.

     

    I really love shopping. ―Karymoon, Mexico

     

    ・I’ve always wanted to try going to 109! I love fashion. ―Brigitte, France
    ・I’m off to buy clothes. If you’re going from Harajuku you can walk there [Shibuya] and stroll while window shopping. ―liu, China

     

     

    2nd Place: Asakusa (13 Votes)
    Asakusa is popular for its traditional townscape. There was an overwhelming number of people on their way to Sensou-ji Temple. Asakusa is a great for accessing other great sightseeing spots too like Skytree and Ueno.

     

    I want to see the beautiful, traditional streets. ―Anonymous, US

     

    ・I’m collecting goshuin from shrines, so I’m going to the famous temple of Asakusa. ―LEE SUU JUNG, Taiwan
    ・I like the traditional culture of Japan. I go to Asakusa every time I come to Japan. ―Anonymous, US

     

     

    3rd Place: Ueno (12 Votes)
    Coming close to a tie with Asakusa is Ueno. Ueno is filled with lots of fun places to visit, like museums and the zoo, making it a great place to spend the day.

     

    I heard that the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park are beautiful, so I’m going to go there. ―Celine, France

     

    ・I’m thinking about going to the zoo and Ueno Park. ―Kati, Australia
    ・I like pandas, so I’m going to go and see Ueno Zoo. ―Bianca, Italy

     

     

    Other Answers:

    Akihabara
    I love anime! If we’re talking anime merchandise, then it’s “Akiba,” right? ―Jackson, UK

     

    Ikebukuro
    Ikebukuro is the haven for female otaku. It’s also the best since there are so many cosplay events there. ―Anonymous, US

     

    Ginza
    I like the stylish streets. I’m gonna go there to shop. ―Adre, Portgual

     

    Tsukiji
    I love sushi! I’m going to go and eat delicious sashimi at Tsukiji. I want to experience the unique atmosphere too.

     

    Shinjuku
    I’m going to the big UNIQLO, museum and Hanazono Shrine found only in Shinjuku. ―Anonymous, Australia

     

    Tokyo Tower
    It looks fun. It’s a famous place in Japan, isn’t it? ―Sue, US

     

     

    Did you enjoy this questionnaire? Travelers have a surprisingly similar mindset to that of Japanese people when it comes to having fun in Tokyo.

    If you have any questions about anything or topics you want us to cover then please send us a message on our Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/msmsnippon/


    We’ll continue to hold more questionnaires with foreign tourists at the MOSHI MOSHI BOX, so be sure to drop by to see us if you’re in Harajuku!

     

     

    MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center

    MOSHI MOSHI BOX is a tourist information center located at the cross road of Takeshita Street, Meiji Street, and Harajuku Street. The staff there are experts on the Harajuku area. You can get the most up-to-date news of Harajuku from the site.

     

    Services:

    Service list

    ・free wi-fi

    ・free water

    ・free PC & charge

    ・baggage room

    ・gift shop

    ・currency exchange

    Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

    Closed: The year-end and New Year holidays

    Contact: 03-2225-6447


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  • MOSHI MOSHI BOX recommends 4 second-hand fashion shops located in the fashion capital Harajuku

    08.April.2018 | FASHION / FEATURES / SPOT

    Hi everyone! I’m Midori Blackmore from MOSHI MOSHI BOX Tourist Information Centre. As you all know, second-hand clothing has quickly become the new fashion. I have never worn a matching second-hand clothing outfit with a friend before. My friends are very different from me. They can effortlessly coordinate second-hand fashion whereas I can’t. I love second-hand clothes so much that they make up half the clothes I own in my closet.

     

    …Despite this, I still feel a scared to enter second-hand shops, don’t you?

    Whenever I see a new collection of second-hand fashion items making their debut appearance in a shop, I always think to myself, “only fashionable people can buy this stuff!” Running out of courage, there are times that I stop right before the entrance of the shop. That’s why I’m dedicating this article to all the second-hand fashion newbies out there. Today I’m going to introduce you to some second-hand clothing shops that are not scary to enter!

     

     

    KINJI

    KINJI原宿店さん(@kinji_harajuku)がシェアした投稿 -

    What is scary about second-hand clothing shops you ask? Sometimes they can look kind of dark. After all, dark clothing is fashionable. The dark atmosphere can be quite intimidating and can even put you off checking out the new arrivals of second-hand clothing. However, KENJI is a large shop with a bright interior. The atmosphere is comparable to that of a supermarket. Of course, the items inside are also super cute!  
    ばぶかぼんさん(@bbkpp_bn)がシェアした投稿 -

    I recommend KENJI’s remade goods! If you own one of these, you will find yourself often being asked by people where you got that from.

     

    ■Information

    Address: Floor B1, YM Square Harajuku, 4-31-10, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

    Opening hours: 11:00 — 20:00

    TEL::03-6406-0505

    Website:http://www.kinji.jp/

     

     

     

    flamingo

    Flamingo is the mecca of second-hand shops. This famous shop also has a branch in Shimokitazawa. We are often asked about this shop at MOSHI MOSHI BOX. Compared to shopping malls, not only are there less customers in second-hand clothing shops, but the staff at second-hand shops approach you more, so there are times that I get put off from entering at all. I recommend flamingo because unlike other second-hand shops, it is always busy with customers. The atmosphere of “no unfashionable people allowed” might play on your mind in some second-hand shops but not here! At flamingo, everyone is too busy daydreaming about clothes to even notice you so there is no need to overthink!  

    Flamingo has a reputation of selling lots of shoes. Although brand new shoes are cute, worn out shoes also have their charm. You can wear them down yourself but this can be quite difficult to achieve, so it might be worth just buying some from a second-hand shop.

     

    ■Information

    Address: 1st floor Junkyard, 4-26-28, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

    Opening hours: Weekdays: 12:00 — 21:00 Weekends & national holidays: 11:00 — 21:00

    TEL:03-5785-3357

    Website:http://tippirag.com/shopsyo_fla_hara/

     

     

     

    WEGO Harajuku main shop

    WEGO is popular with middle school students because it is cheap, affordable and sells second-hand clothes! There used to be a second-hand shop next to H&M but now there is a special second-hand clothing floor inside WEGO Harajuku main shop. The shop is filled with friendly staff and the kindest of people, so this is definitely a place you could challenge yourself to!  

    Second-hand clothing plus new accessories… It’s fun to think about creating an outfit at WEGO. The prices here are fairly cheap, so you’ll probably end up buying lots of things. Sometimes there are limited sales events where you can stuff your bag with as many clothes as you like for a fixed price, so make sure to keep checking their SNS feeds!

     

     

    ■Information

    Address: 1st & 2nd floor, Iberia Building, 6-5-3, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

    Opening hours: 10:00 — 21:00

    TEL:03-3400-7625

    Aebsite:http://www.wego.jp/

     

     

     

     

    MARTE

    Have you ever made the effort to buy specifically from a second-hand shop but then the clothes you have and the atmosphere in which you try the clothes on have changed so much that you cannot coordinate anything? When you buy basic items, patterned shirts and large jackets from a second-hand shop, you sometimes think your new purchases are cute when you see them in the shop but then when you go home you lose the confidence to wear them…what a waste, right?

    For those of you out there who have experienced this, I recommend MARTE.

     

    I definitely recommend the dresses from here. Just put one on and you will transform into a vintage girl. You can always coordinate these dresses with a jacket and trainers. Consult the fashionable shop assistants and make sure to get your hands on some clothes that are easy to mix and match!  

    MARTE’s original items are also really cute!

     

     

    ■Information

    Address: 6-6-11, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

    Opening hours: Weekdays: 13:00 — 22:00 Weekends & national holidays: 12:00 — 20:00

    Access:5-minute walk from Harajuku station ( JR Yamanote line) 1-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line/ Fukutoshin line)

    TEL:03-3797-3123

    Website:http://marte.jp/

     

     

    I have so many more recommendations for you in mind but the more I write the more likely I am to expose just how nervous I am about entering shops so I’m going to stop here!

     

    If you are ever lost, please come see us at MOSHI MOSHI BOX!

     

     

    MOSHI MOSHI BOX Harajuku Tourist Information Center

    MOSHI MOSHI BOX is a tourist information center located at the cross road of Takeshita Street, Meiji Street, and Harajuku Street. The staff there are experts on the Harajuku area. You can get the most up-to-date news of Harajuku from the site.

     

    Services:

    Service list

    ・free wi-fi

    ・free water

    ・free PC & charge

    ・baggage room

    ・gift shop

    ・currency exchange

    Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

    Closed: The year-end and New Year holidays

    Contact: 03-2225-6447

    Twitter・Instagram @mmb_harajuku

     

  • 6 Best Spots to Visit in Odaiba: Gundam, Ramen, Shopping and More!

    05.April.2018 | FEATURES / SPOT

    As well as being a hub for shopping, Odaiba is a popular sightseeing destination. It’s seen as being a little far from central Tokyo, but you can in fact arrive there in about 20 minutes from Shibuya and Shinjuku.

     

    Here are 6 locations in Odaiba that we recommend for foreign tourists. Be sure to take note if you’re planning a trip there!

     

     

     

    愛緒唯さん(@_aoooooi)がシェアした投稿 -

    AQUA CiTY ODAIBA

    This is Odaiba’s huge shopping complex. There’s a huge range of facilities to be found there, including a shrine, ramen, 4DX® and much more. One place you mustn’t forget to visit is Odaiba’s “Statue of Liberty” which has become a famous photo spot. It’s relatively smaller compared to the one in New York and the replica in Paris, but you’ll still see a lot of people snapping pictures.

     

    ◼︎Information

    Address: 1-7-1 Daiba, Minato
    Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00
    Access: 1-minute on foot from Daiba Station via all lines / 6-minutes on foot from Tokyo Teleport Station via the Rinkai Line
    TEL: 03-3599-4700

    Website:www.aquacity.jp

     

     

    yuko888さん(@yuko__888)がシェアした投稿 -

    Odaiba Tourist Information Center
    At this information center you will find a realistic looking android by the name of Chihira Junko. She is 26-years-old, was born on June 1st and comes in at 165cm tall. This is the only place in the world with an android permanently set up at a tourist information center. She speaks Japanese, English and Chinese.

    ◼︎Information

    Odaiba Tourist Information Center
    Address: AQUA CiTY ODAIBA 3F, 1-7-1 Daiba, Minato
    Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00
    Access: 1-minute on foot from Daiba Station via all lines / 6-minutes on foot from Tokyo Teleport Station via the Rinkai Line
    TEL: 03-3599-4700

     

     


    Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai
    Ramen is a popular food in Japan as we discovered in our questionnaire held at the MOSHI MOSHI BOX on people’s favourite Japanese food. Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai is a collection of six famous ramen restaurants from around Japan that are popular both in Japan and overseas. They serve up an original menu that you can’t taste anywhere else.

    ◼︎Information

    Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai
    Address: AQUA CiTY ODAIBA 5F, 1-7-1 Daiba, Minato
    Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00
    Access: 1-minute on foot from Daiba Station via all lines / 6-minutes on foot from Tokyo Teleport Station via the Rinkai Line
    TEL: 03-3599-4700

    Website:http://www.aquacity.jp/tokyo_ramen_kokugikan/

     

     

    Hello Kitty Japan
    This shop serves up a compelling collaboration between the Japanese style and Sanrio characters. It’s lined with merchandise of popular characters from Hello Kitty to Gudetama and beyond. They also sell kawaii sweets inspired by the characters in the sweets corner of their eat-in section♡

    ◼︎Information

    Hello Kitty Japan
    Address: DiverCity Tokyo Plaza 2F, 1-1-10 Aomi, Koto, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00
    No Fixed Holidays.
    Access: 5-minutes on foot from Daiba Station via Yurikamome / 3-minutes from Tokyo Teleport Station Exit B via the Rinkai Line
    TEL: 03-3527-6118

    Website:https://www.sanrio.co.jp/shop/sh6204120/

     

     


    Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam – THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO
    THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO is an official Gunpla store aimed at Gunpla fans worldwide. You can enjoy Gunpla to the absolute max by buying, using, looking and learning. On the first floor there’s also a gigantic life-sized Unicorn Gundam towering at 19.7m high. Its knees and shoulders move, and it even lights up. In the evening, the statue and screen at the back showcase scenes from the anime series.

    ◼︎Information
    THE GUNDAM BASE TOKYO
    Address: DiverCity Tokyo Plaza 7F, 1-1-10 Aomi, Koto, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00
    No Fixed Holidays.
    Access: 9-minutes on foot from Tokyo Teleport Station via the Rinkai Line / 10-minutes on foot from Odaiba-Kaihinkōen Station via Yurikamome / 10-minutes on foot from Daiba Station via all lines
    TEL: 03-6426-0780
    Website:https://www.gundam-base.net/

     



    Madame Tussauds Tokyo
    Madame Tussauds Tokyo is home to over 60 realistic life-sized statues of world famous stars and celebrities from Hollywood stars to musicians, historical figures, sportsmen – the list goes on. You can take a picture with the figures on show and you can also make a giant figure of your own hand.

    ◼︎Information

    Madame Tussauds Tokyo
    Address: DECKS Tokyo Beach Island Mall 3F, 1-6-1 Daiba, Minato, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00
    Access: 2-minutes on foot from Odaiba-Kaihinkōen Station via Yurikamome / 5-minutes on foot from Tokyo Teleport Station via the Rinkai Line
    TEL: 03-3599-5231

    Website:https://www.madametussauds.jp/ja/

     

    Did you like our pick?

    Odaiba has so many things for you to see in one day, so make sure to visit all its great spots!

     

  • 7 Recommended Hot Springs in Japan to Enjoy Hanami

    23.March.2018 | FEATURES / SPOT

    It’s still pretty chilly outside, isn’t it? Let’s take a look at locations around Japan where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms while taking a dip in the onsen (hot spring). Being able to enjoy hanami while bathing in the hot water is really a luxurious experience – it’s something everyone should try.

     

     

    “Marumine Kanko Hotel” – Fukushima Prefecture The best part about this hotel is undoubtedly their large baths with a great view! The breathtaking panoramic view from their hot springs allows for you to enjoy gorgeous sights from season to season. Their open-air baths, which are perfect for the beautiful cherry blossom season, have separate impressive themes and designs for males and females. They also have rooms that come with their own open-air baths aimed at couples and families too.  
    ■Information Marumine Kanko Hotel Address: 1128 Shimoyudaira, Otomachi Ashinomaki, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture TEL: 0242922121 Website: http://www.marumine.co.jp
         
    Wataru Inoueさん(@watapoiktm)がシェアした投稿 -

    “Kinranso Hanayama” – Fukushima Prefecture

    You can enjoy the taking a dip in an open-air bath designed like a houseboat while soaking up the view of lush nature surrounding you. Kinranso Hanayama’s unusual baths are truly a sight to see. The baths are one with nature and offer an extraordinary experience.

     

    ■Information

    ■Information

    Kinranso Hanayama – Bandaitami Onsen

    Address: 4-321 Atami Atamimachi, Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture

    TEL: 024-984-2111

    Website: http://www.kinranso.jp

     

     

     

    mariさん(@h.s.mm.r)がシェアした投稿 -

    “Fuga No Yado Chouseikan” – Niigata Prefecture This hot spring has a lot of history and has been known in the area since long ago. It opened 700 years ago and is a hot spring where you can naturally feel both nature and history. When the flowers are in full bloom, large cherry blossom trees fill your vision and spellbind you without you even realising.    
    ■Information ■Information Fuga No Yado Chouseikan Address: 4632-8 Murasugi, Agano, Niigata     Prefecture TEL: 0250662111 Website: http://www.chouseikan.co.jp
         

    “Yukemuri-no-Sato Kashiwaya” – Tochigi Prefecture

    This hotel has 4 open-air baths, all of which are filled with healing water and all of which immerse you Tochigi’s lavish nature. There are separate designs for the male and female baths that are a lot of fun. Two of the open-air baths that can be reserved have giant windows with a panoramic view, allowing you to enjoy the outdoor sights to your heart’s content.

     

     

    ■Information

    Yukemuri-no-Sato Kashiwaya

    Address: 62 Kawajionsen, Takahara, Tochigi Prefecture

    TEL: 0288-78-0002

    Website: https://www.kashiwaya-kawaji.jp

     

     

     

    “Hotel Kaminoyu Hot Spring” – Yamanashi Prefecture This large public bath house has a whopping 7 different baths, meaning you can find and pick which one you like the most. This site also has the second largest tarufuro, a type of wooden barrel bath. What’s more is that you can experience Mount Fuji, a starry sky and cherry blossoms at night – all at once! This one sure is luxurious.  
    ■Information ■Information Hotel Kaminoyu Hot Spring Address: 17 Ryuji, Kai, Yamanashi Prefecture TEL: 0551-28-5000 Website: https://www.kaminoyu-onsen.com
         

    “Bosenkan” – Gifu Prefecture

    The word “river” makes up part of the name of this hotel, referring to the existence of the nearby river that you can experience. The hotel offers a variety of plans, including one for couples as well as relaxation plan, both of which are popular. For meals, you can enjoy local beef from the city of Hida, koshihikari rice that is cultivated in Gifu’s Maze River which was selected as Japan’s best clear stream, and more. The international hit movie Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) was even the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. Definitely take a trip here.

     

    ■Information

    ■Information

    Bosenkan

    Address: 190-1 Yunoshima, Gero, Gifu Prefecture

    TEL: 0576252048

    Website: https://www.bosenkan.co.jp

     

     

     

    sum178さん(@sum178)がシェアした投稿 -

    “Asanoya” – Hyogo Prefecture

    There are two open-air baths at this hotel: “Hikoboshi” (Altair) and “Orihime” (Vega). In the women’s bath, Orihime, large cherry trees bloom gracefully overhead. The hotel also has baths for couples and families that can be reserved. They even have footbaths, so it might be nice to stop by on your way back from sightseeing to heal up those weary feet.

     

     

    ■Information

    ■Information

    Asanoya

    Address: 1269 Yu, Shin’onsen, Mikata District, Hyogo Prefecture

    TEL: 0796921000

    Website: http://www.asanoya.co.jp

     

     

     

    Did you enjoy this list? Be sure to treat yourself to some self-indulging time at one of Japan’s many hot spring locations.

  • MOSHI MOSHI BOX Staff Recommends: 6 Tasty Souvenirs at Shinjuku Station

    10.March.2018 | FEATURES / FOOD

    It's safe to say that a lot of people who travel around Tokyo use Shinjuku Station. There's a lot of souvenir shops around there, but it can be difficult to know what to buy.

     

    In this article, the staff over at the MOSHI MOSHI BOX, Harajuku's tourist information center loved by travelers, will introduce you to some places to pick up a great souvenir around Shinjuku station, all easily accessible via train lines and the shinkansen!

     

    akinaaさん(@seiy17)がシェアした投稿 -

    Ruki’s Recommendations (Spanish Staff) – "BAKE CHEESE TART" They have a crispy and fluffy texture! They're sweet and really delicious. They're tasty as they are, but I recommend eating them hot when the shop opens, that's when they're best♡  
    ◼︎Information BAKE CHEESE TART - Shinjuku LUMINE EST Branch Address: LUMINE EST Shinjuku 1F, 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Opening Hours: [Monday-Friday] 11:00-22:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 10:30-22:00 No Fixed Holidays. (Except when LUMINE EST Shinjuku is closed) Access: Inside JR Shinjuku Station TEL: 03-5925-8170 Website: http://www.bake.co.jp/
     
    おはなさん(@instaohana)がシェアした投稿 -

    Minimal's Recommendations (Hong Kong Staff) – Cream Puffs at "Choux d’Enfer Paris"
    Cute, bite-sized cream puffs! The outside sugar is crunchy and the dough is light.

    They have regular flavours like custard and chocolate, but also Japanese-style flavours including cherry blossom and matcha.

     

    ◼︎Information
    Choux d’Enfer PARIS NEWoMan - Shinjuku Branch
    Address: NEWoMan (Inside Shinjuku Station at New South Exit), 5-24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 8:00~22:00
    No Fixed Holidays.
    Access: Inside JR Shinjuku Station at New South Exit
    TEL: 03-3354-2181
    Website: http://choux-d-enfer-paris.jp

     

    Banako's Recommendations (Chinese-Speaking Staff) – "Ginza Cozy Corner"
    Ginza Cozy Corner sells delicious western-style confectioneries. I recommend their matcha flavoured yakikashi (baked sweets)! They're made with carefully selected high quality ingredients such as Uji matcha and Uji houjicha that will make you feel relaxed. You can enjoy a combination of traditional Japan and western-style confectionery!

     

    ◼︎Information
    Ginza Cozy Corner - JR Shinjuku Station South Exit Grounds
    Address: JR Shinjuku Station South Exit Grounds, 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 9:00-23:00
    No Fixed Holidays.
    Access: JR Shinjuku Station South Exit Grounds
    TEL: 03-3346-0192
    Website: http://www.cozycorner.co.jp/

     

    Midori's Recommendations (Miss ID Semifinalist) - Pochiokaki at "Hyouhyouan" These crunchy rice crackers come in decorative envelopes with beautiful Edo designs! They can of course be given as a New Year's gift, and are a sign of good luck as a celebratory present. The rice crackers are also made of a rare mochi rice from Toyama Prefecture. They will satisfy kids and adults alike.  

    ◼︎Information Hyouhyouan Address: NEWoMan SHINJUKU 2F, 5-24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo Opening Hours: 08:00-22:00 Access: 30-minutes' on foot from JR Shinjuku Station South Exit TEL: 03-6380-1377 Website: http://www.kakiyama.com/hyohyoan/
     
    やこさん(@yakochin3)がシェアした投稿 -

    Ellie's Recommendations (English-Speaking Staff) - Namasasara at "Yui"
    This shop sells cute bite-sized Japanese sweets. You can buy them from inside NEWoMan which is a shopping facility directly connected to Shinjuku Station. Each and every one of their fine confectioneries are carefully handmade by experts. They sell sweets individually too, so I recommend them as a little present!

     

    ◼︎Information
    Yui - NEWoMan Shinjuku
    Address: Yui NEWoMan Shinjuku 2F, 5-24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 8:00-22:00
    Access: 30-minutes' on foot from JR Shinjuku Station South Exit
    TEL: 03-3353-5521
    Website: http://www.ryoguchiya-korekiyo.co.jp/

     

    @kiiiroto.5がシェアした投稿 -

    Shiota's Recommendations (Director of MOSHI MOSHI BOX) - An Chocolate at "L'OLIOLI 365"
    "An Chocolate" is a steamed dessert made with red bean and chocolate. The center has two layers and the bottom is a red bean and chocolate mousse. They have plenty of flavours including apricot jam, caramel, matcha and more.

     

    ◼︎Information
    L'OLIOLI 365 - Shinjuku Isetan Branch
    Address: Shinjuku Isetan B1F, 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 10:30-20:00
    No Fixed Holidays. (Except when Isetan is closed)
    Access: 4-minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station via any line
    TEL: 03-3352-1111
    Website:  http://www.anniversary-web.co.jp/lolioli/text/top.html

     

    Did you enjoy the staff's list?

     

    If you find yourself stuck on what to buy as a gift, then be sure to reference this article. Have a wonderful trip in Tokyo♫

     

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