Crayon Shin-chan: Crash! Rakuga Kingdom and Almost Four Heroes was released on September 11, 2020 as the 28th animated feature film in the Crayon Shin-chan series. To promote the film, a themed cafe is set to open at BOX cafe&space in the city of Koshigaya in Saitama Prefecture from October 1 to November 1.

The cafe originally opened at TOKYO PARADE inside Shibuya PARCO back in March for a limited time, and now it’s headed north of Tokyo to Saitama.

Shin-chan fans can look forward to a menu lineup of dishes, drinks, and desserts inspired by the film’s theme of “drawing.”

Rakuga Kingdom Cafe Crayon Shin-chan Curry | ¥1,390 (Before Tax)

The Shin-chan curry is a spicy yellow curry combined with coconut milk. The white sauce is inspired by the light blue colour of the smocks worn at Futaba Kindergarten in the series.

Rakuga Kingdom Cafe Buriburizaemon Curry | ¥1,390 (Before Tax)

This one’s a spicy black masala curry centred on Buriburizaemon.

Uki Uki Da Zo Crayon Shin-chan Pancakes | ¥1,390 (Before Tax)

Pancakes toped with cream and a cute Shin-chab illustration. It’s served with a wafer featuring pictures of other characters from the film.

Minna Suki ni Kakeba? Rakugaki Pudding Plate | ¥1,390 (Before Tax)

Two pudding tarts and a crepe which you can draw on with a chocolate pen to create your own cute illustrations like Shin-chan.

Shin-Chan’s Miracle Colourful Jelly Soda ¥890 | Shiro’s Cotton Candy Strawberry Milk ¥990 (Before Tax)

A soda served with jelly in five different colours and a strawberry milk topped with Shiro who’s made from cotton candy. It becomes a sweet strawberry milk as soon as the cotton candy hits and melts into the drink.

Pin Badges (8 Designs) | ¥400 (Before Tax)

Canvas Art | ¥3,500 (Before Tax) *Limited edition

Bonus Items

The merchandise lineup features items with original artwork. There’s also bonus items for customers who book a table in advance as well as order a drink.

Enter the Rakugaki Kingdom of drawing at the limited-time Crayon Shin-chan cafe.

ⒸYoshito Usui/Futabasha・Shinei・TV Asahi・ＡＤＫ 2020

This year marks the 30th anniversary since the initial serialisation of popular manga series Crayon Shin-chan. It is also a celebration of 10 years since New Crayon Shin-chan began serialisation in the monthly magazine Manga Town.

Across the Crayon Shin-chan series, the two most important elements have always been friends and family. That’s where the 30th anniversary project comes to light – in an effort to bring smiles to people who have been impacted by the spread of COVID-19. And “Love” is the keyword of the project.

The Nohara family meet a new family in the September 2020 issue of Manga Town

A new manga spin-off will begin in the September 2020 issue of Manga Town (on sale August 5) where the Nohara family will meet a completely new family. Various other publications will also be released including volume 10 of Crayon Shin-chan, which comes in time for its 10th anniversary, a Crayon Shin-chan encyclopedia entitled Crayon Shin-chan Taizen 2020 Nen Zouhohan, and volume 7 of the Nohara Hiroshi Hiru Meshi no Ryuugi spin-off.

Online Crayon Shin-chan tribute

Japanese manga website Comic Action will see 30 popular manga authors pay tribute to 30 years of Crayon Shin-chan by penning their own words about the series on August 21.

30th Anniversary Pop-Up Shops Open in Tokyo & Osaka

Two pop-up shops will open at the Junkudo Ikebukuro bookstore in Tokyo from August 18 to September 8 and MARUZEN & Junkudo Umeda bookstore from August 19 to September 9 in celebration of the 30 year milestone.

©Yoshito Usui / Futabasha

ASOBINEXT is a new project launched by event management and talent agency ASOBISYSTEM, which is known for managing artists like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. The project aims to create next generation icons who will promote their unique personalities and outlooks to the world using social media and in turn bring about new forms of culture.

As part of ASOBINEXT, MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON will be publishing content from each talent that is tied to ASOBINEXT in the form of their favourite and recommended things. Today, we take a look at 5 recommended nostalgic Japanese films from ASOBINEXT’s Mirai who makes sure to watch at least one film a week.

Our Little Sister

©2015 吉田秋生・小学館／フジテレビジョン 小学館 東宝 ギャガ

・Film Summary
The film follows three sisters: Sachi, Yoshino, and Chika who all live in the house of their grandparents in Kamakura where they all grew up together. One day, they receive news of the death of their father. At his funeral, they meet their 14-year-old half-sister Suzu for the first time, whose mother is already dead. She had been living with their father and her stepmom after he remarried. When the eldest daughter Sachi looks at Suzu as the sisters are saying goodbye to her, she invites Suzu to go and live with them in Asakusa. Suzu agrees to go, and thus begins the sisters’ journey together to deepen their relationship with Suzu. Its a very ‘Japanese’ film in many ways, and has a nostalgic Asakusa feel to it from the scenery and how people interact with one another.

・Why I Chose This Film
The story really gripped my heart. It’s heartwarming, sad, and has a kind of nostalgia I can’t quite put my finger on which makes me want to go back home. I love Asakusa, the setting of the movie, and go there every year to have fun with my family. We’re also four siblings, brothers and sisters, so this film felt more relatable to me as I watched it. If you’re someone who feels like they want to return to their hometown, or see someone you treasure, or want to feel something Japanese, then I recommend giving this film a go!

My Neighbor Totoro

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

#TriviaTuesday✨The original poster for My Neighbour Totoro features only one young girl who was supposed to be the sole main character, before the story changed into one about two sisters. Mei was based on Miyazaki’s own niece, whilst the English dub from 2004 featured a then six year old Elle Fanning as her voice actor, with her older sister Dakota Fanning as Satsuki!

Studio Ghibli UK(@ghibliuk)がシェアした投稿 – 2020年 1月月28日午前9時40分PST

・Film Summary
In the early summer, Satsuki and her younger sister Mei move into the countryside with their father to be closer to their mother who is hospitalised. They meet a mysterious creature who Mei gives the name “Totoro,” a being which cannot be seen by adults. Satsuki and Mei get whisked into a fantastical world as we see them grow.

・Why I Chose This Film
I’ve loved it since I was a kid. It’s one of Ghibli’s films I’ve always watched. The film is set to be set in 1952 during the Showa Period. I was born in the Heisei Period so I wasn’t even born yet when the film was released. Even so, this is a film that continues to receive love, so much so that it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that it’s known to all in Japan, and all have seen it. I believe there are still lots of kids who are watching Totoro even now. This film is an emotion that continues to live in our hearts as a memory, one that’s like a dream we had when we were young. I want the people of the world to watch this regardless of their age or gender!

Always: Sunset on Third Street

・Film Summary
Mutsuko Hoshino arrives in Tokyo from Aomori Prefecture to begin her employment at the auto repair shop Suzuki Auto. Captivated by the prospect of living and working in the sparkling city of Tokyo, Mutsuku is disappointed to find that Suzuki Auto is actually a rundown shop in Tokyo’s lower districts. Despite this, she goes into her job with will-power and positivity, and finds herself becoming a member of the Suzuki family. There is also the struggling writer Ryunosuke Chagawa, who accepts the custody of Junnosuke from Hiromi. Junnosuke is the orphaned offspring of the previous tenant of the building where Hiromi opens a bar. All of the cast members convey love, courage, and warmth in this story about being human.

・Why I Chose This Film
The moment I saw this film, it felt like I had been transported back in time to 1926, even though I was born in the Heisei Period and not the Showa Period. Despite that, it still fills me with a sense of nostalgia, and it makes me well up with a feeling of courage. The film is set in a time where smartphones, PCs, and TVs aren’t a thing yet, so it really made me realise the importance of our connection to others. I want to recommend this film to anyone who wants to know about old time Japan, or is looking for a film with heart!

Kimi ni Todoke

©2010映画「君に届け」製作委員会　©椎名軽穂 / 集英社

・Film Summary
Sawako is avoided by her classmates in elementary school because of her appearance which leads them to name-call her “Sadako,” the main character from the film The Ring. They also call her a zashiki-warashi, a child spirit. But her father teachers her that a zashiki-warashi is a spirit that actually makes people happy. This makes her happy, since her motto is to “do one good thing a day.” When she becomes a high school stduent, she meets a certain boy, which marks the start of this cute and pure love story.

・Why I Chose This Film
This is my favourite of Japan’s love stories. It makes you feel that pure, butterfly stomach kind of youthful love. The music and the backgrounds in the film serve to add another layer to their relationship too. The film makes you want to cheer the two of them on from the shadows as they come to face complicated emotions they have never felt before. Everyone should check this out, regardless of age or gender, if they’re wanting a heart-throb story or feel like returning to their youthful days!

Korede iinoda! Eiga Akatsuka Fujio

・Film Summary
This film covers the life of manga artist Fujio Akatsuka—known for such popular series as Tensai Bakabon—and his 35 year relationship with his editor Toshiki Takei. You get to learn about the unique life of the manga artist, who has been called a genius.

・Why I Chose This Film
This comedy film is set in the 1970s and shows how the popular weekly manga magazine Weekly Shonen Sunday came about, a magazine which it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call the start of Japanese manga. Of course, if you love Japanese manga, you should watch this, but I want all of the people of the world who are interested in the history of Japanese anime to see it!

Nijigen no Mori is an anime theme park located on Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. Here’s a list of the latest events running at the park in June.

NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBIZATO

NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBIZATO is an area of Nijigen no Mori with attractions and more based on Naruto and his son Boruto. The area celebrated its 1st anniversary on April 20, 2020. The park is currently selling anniversary merchandise as well as other exclusive items. Guests who buy a ticket to the park online will receive a free 1st anniversary postcard.

Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 (Reception Closes 20:00)

Price: Adults ¥1,800 / High & Junior High School Students ¥1,800 / Children (Elementary School Students & Younger) ¥500
*Free entry for those aged 3 and below

Price: ¥1,280 Each (Before Tax) *6 flavours

There are also beverages inspired by characters from the series.

Price: ¥1,050 (Before Tax)

There is also a special ramen dish you can order inspired by the Akatsuki, the biggest threat to the Hidden Leaf Village.

GRAND CHARIOT Hokutoshichisei 135°, a hotel and glamping facility located in the area, also opened its new Naruto-themed room on June 1, 2020.

The room, called “Hokage no Bessou” (Hokage’s Villa), is renovated from one of the resort’s buildings, and aims to plunge guests into the world of ninjas. The room takes inspiration from the Hidden Leaf Village and its characters, with references to the series and recreated scenes littered throughout. It also offers exclusive amenities for guests to enjoy.

Guests who stay in the Naruto room receive a free ticket to NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBIZATO at Nijigen no Mori.

ⒸMasashi Kishimoto Scott / Shuiehsa・TV Tokyo・Pierrot

Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park

Over at the Crayon Shin-chan shop in Nijigen no Mori, they’re selling limited quantities of a “Happy Bag” full of Shin-chan merchandise, from picnic cushions to towels and more for a total of six items.

And for the summer season, the last entries to all attractions at Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park have been extended. It’s a chance to work your body while enjoying the green outdoors.

Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Last Entries 19:30)
Price: Adults ¥4,480 / High & Junior High School Students ¥2,880 / Children (Elementary School Students & Younger) ¥1,180 / Seniors ¥1,440
*Free entry for those aged 4 and below. Please check the official website for weekend and national holiday prices.

Phoenix Night Walk

June 21 is Father’s Day, and to celebrate Nijigen no Mori is holding an event on the day based on Osamu Tezuka’s manga Phoenix. Dads can attend the event for free. The park is holding a birthday campaign for June for those whose birthdays were in March, April, and May since they were unable to go out due to isolation, as well as for those whose birthdays are in June.

Date: June 21, 2020

Time: 19:30-20:30

Price: General ¥3,300 (Junior High School Students & Older) / Children ¥1,200 (Aged 5-12)2020年6月21日（日）
営業時間：19:30～20:30(季節により異なる)
*Free entry for those aged 3 and below.

Crayon Shin-chan: Crash! Rakuga Kingdom and Almost Four Heroes is the 28th and newest anime film to enter the beloved Crayon Shin-chan series, which is set to release in Japan on April 24, 2020.

Crayon Shin-chan is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Yoshito Usui. It was first serialised in Weekly Manga Action in 1990, and subsequently received its first anime adaptation in 1992. Since then, it has become one of the most recognisable and loved series in Japan.

The story of Crayon Shin-chan: Crash! Rakuga Kingdom and Almost Four Heroes is as follows: For many years, a giant kingdom fuelled by doodles created by humans has been peacefully floating in the sky. As time has gone by, less and less people have been doodling, resulting in fuel supplies running critically low. As the kingdom crumbles, doodles have been falling from the sky.  As the kingdom starts to face the threat of complete collapse, the kingdom’s forces soon get on the case, forcing the innocent people of earth to produce more doodles to save the kingdom. The kingdom just happens to be floating above the city of Shin-chan’s residence: Kasukabe. Knowing that the lives of many are at stake, the princess of the Rakuga Kingdom entrusts the Kingdom’s sacred Miracle Crayon to a hero – the five-year-old, mischievous and carefree Shin-chan. Shin-chan harnesses the power of the miracle crayon, drawing up a superhero team to save the world. Shin-chan’s three drawings jump right out of the sketch book and right into action in an attempt to save the day. 

Voicing the part of the princess, who entrusts Shin-chan with saving the Rakuga Kingdom, is none other than Kyary Pamyu Pamyuーwho herself is a huge fan of Crayon Shin-chan.

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s song Kimi ni 100 Percent (2013) was used as the 15th opening theme for the Crayon Shin-chan anime series, and maintains the record for being used the longest out of all of the series’ opening themes. It was also used as the opening theme for the 2014 film Crayon Shin-chan: Intense Battle! Robo Dad Strikes Back. Kyary even appeared in the series as herself. Her history with the series has led her to being recognised as a member of the Shin-chan family.

Kyary received the offer to voice the princess in the upcoming new film after the production team heard her voice work for the character Mecchaka in the NHK Educational TV series u&i. They were impressed by the voice work, and initially didn’t know it was Kyary. After finding out it was, they sent her the offer.

Kyary is a huge fan of Crayon Shin-chan and read the manga religiously. She is now taking this opportunity to challenge herself to some real seiyū anime voice acting. But it doesn’t stop there either, as she will also perform the opening theme for the film too. Titled Rakugaki Ouen Taishi (“Support Ambassador for Rakugaki”), the song is centred around the Rakuga Kingdom.

Kyary and Shin-chan released some words of their own regarding this dream collaboration. Read them below.

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu | Comment

“I appeared as myself in the anime series once before, but this time I’m challenging myself to some authentic voice acting as the princess, so I hope everyone enjoys seeing a completely different side to me. I’ve been collecting and reading the Shin-chan manga since elementary school. Whenever I scored 100 in a test my dad would buy me a volume. I was bad at studying, but Shin-chan helped me work hard. He’s like the hero who scooped me up and saved me! As a fan I’m super happy too, since this movie is based on a part from the manga series. I hope everyone who loves Shin-chan will look forward to it too!” *Translated from Japanese

Shinnosuke Nohara | Comment

“Kyary-chan, I’m super happy I get to see you again! So you’re gonna be the princess who trusts me with the Rakuga Kingdom treasure, the ‘Miracle Crayon,’ right? I’ll make sure to catch your love baton. And you’re gonna be the Rakugaki Support Ambassador with me too. I’m way too excited. We’re a dream combination! Enjoy yourself at the cinema.”

©Yoshito Usui / Futabasha・Shinei・TV Asahi・ADK 2020

Since 1990, Crayon Shin-chan has been published in Manga Action and made its debut as an anime series in 1992. Shin-chan has wooed the hearts of the entire country and even overseas. Every Crayon Shin-chan movie has become a big hit, capturing the hearts of the young and elderly, boys and girls. 

Following in the footsteps of its predecessors, next year will see the release of the 28th Crayon Shin-chan movie: Crash! Rakuga Kingdom and Almost Four Heroes on April 24, 2020. Advanced tickets with an unmissable bonus as well as movie teasers have been unveiled.

For many years, a giant kingdom fuelled by doodles created by humans has been peacefully floating in the sky. As time has gone by, less and less people have been doodling, resulting in fuel supplies running critically low. As the kingdom crumbles, doodles have been falling from the sky.  As the kingdom starts to face the threat of complete collapse, the kingdom’s forces soon get on the case, forcing the innocent people of earth to produce more doodles to save the kingdom. The kingdom just happens to be floating above the city of Shin-chan’s residence: Kasukabe.

Knowing that the lives of many are at stake, the princess of the Rakuga Kingdom entrusts the Kingdom’s sacred Miracle Crayon to a hero – the five-year-old, mischievous and carefree Shin-chan. Shin-chan harnesses the power of the miracle crayon, drawing up a superhero team to save the world. The first hero: some briefs that haven’t been changed in two days. He then attempts to draw up the love of his life: Nanako Ohara. Unfortunately, she doesn’t quite look the same. Shin-chan then draws his hero Brave Pig, who Shin-chan fans will recognise from the series as the shy pig who is defeated by his shyness every time he has to save anyone. Shin-chan’s three drawings jump right out of the sketch book and right into action in an attempt to save the day. 

In the film, the princess proclaims Shin-chan to be the only hero able to use the Miracle Crayon in the entire world. She hands the sacred tool to Shin-chan, entrusting him with the critical duty of serving the royal family as the court painter. The Rakuga Kingdom’s Minister of Defense also makes a strong impression in the film with his masterplan to save the kingdom. As chaos unfolds on earth, it is up to Shin-chan to restore peace and order. Shin-chan joins forces with his three drawings and as troubles get knee-deep, some Shin-chan fans will be betting on the odds that Brave Pig ditches the scene like he usually does, in which case Shin-chan’s odds of saving the world will be looking slimmer and slimmer.

The teaser trailer presents our favourite childhood anime in a colourful way. Crayons and coloured pencils are both the theme of the movie and the style in which the movie was made, adding a sweet finishing touch. As the Rakuga Kingdom is on the brink of destruction, Shin-chan gets to work, freely doodling away destruction with his superhero team consisting of smelly briefs, a badly-drawn dream girl, and the shy Brave Pig. 

Illustrator and manga artist Yoko Kuno, who was in charge of the character design for the Crayon Shin-chan movie Invasion!! Alien Shiriri and Burst Serving! and the animation for the ending scenes for Kung Fu Boys ~Ramen Rebellion~, is on the concept design team for this movie. 

Shin-chan joining forces with a group of doodles is an unexpected dream team collaboration that has got everyone excited. Those who purchase advanced tickets have the chance to get a limited edition Shin-chan crayon themed around the Crash! Rakuga Kingdom and Almost Four Heroes film. Look closely and you will realize that his hat is a red crayon. Just by looking at this bonus gift keyring will leave you with the sudden urge to start doodling. 

©Yoshito Usui/Futabasha Publishers Ltd./ SHIN-EI Animation・TV Asahi・ADK 20120.

The 2018 Argentine-Spanish true crime film El Angel is set to hit theatres in Japan this year on August 16.

The movie is inspired by the real-life Argentine serial killer Carlos Robledo Puch. It was screened at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival and was chosen for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 91st Academy Awards in the Argentine category. The film caught public attention and has enjoyed great success, and that’s in huge part thanks to Argentina actor Lorenzo Ferro, a newcomer who has made his acting debut with his role as Puch. He plays the character naturally and effortlessly, capturing the seemingly “pure” looks of Puch coupled with his evil intent, a killer who had free reigns to do whatever he needed to do to achieve his goal. The 60s-70s fashion that Ferro dons in the film is also a highlight worthy of note.

MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON spoke to Ferro who came to Japan to promote the film, and Yutaro, who is the same age as Ferro, and is a model that has recently become very busy in the acting world. We questioned them about them about the film, the character role, and fashion.

*Interview translated from Japanese.

──What are your thoughts after having seen El Angel, Yutaro?

Yutaro: This was actually my first time watching an Argentine movie. The first thing that piqued my interest was the unique sound of the language. With the story, when I heard that it was about a serial killer I thought it would be a pretty graphic portrayal, but it wasn’t. Even people who aren’t good with graphic and shocking kinds of films would be able to watch this.

──That kind of reasoning and moral compass [which the film depicts] makes you feel kind of uneasy, doesn’t it?

Yutaro: Obviously the things that the protagonist Carlos does is against the law and morally wicked, but he himself doesn’t believe any little thing he does is bad. He moves on instinct which in his mind is somehow acceptable, and that’s dangerous. Was it hard for you to create the character, Lorenzo?

Lorenzo: It really was tough. I hadn’t played a character until then, so the first thing I had to learn was just being in front of a camera. Playing the role came after. I had to become “friends” with the movie and “friends” with the camera. Those were the first things I needed to do to fulfill my commitment.

The whole shoot took around a month and a half, but prep time was half a year. During that time I practised playing piano and mastered riding a bike. It was a lot of work, but when I finally saw the completed movie, I felt it was definitely worth all the effort.

Yutaro: When you’re playing someone who is far from anything like yourself, prep time is really important, isn’t it? You have to gather material on the role and really use your imagination. I also make sure to properly communicate with the director before shoots. I ask about the film’s theme and intent. If our perceptions don’t match then it’s not going to hold up on screen.

Lorenzo: It’s definitely important to respect the director and communicate with them effectively. When we were filming, I wanted to make sure I didn’t forget to see the director as a friend. For instance, if the hierarchal relationship is overly strict and the director is the kind of person to look down on you and order you around, then you can’t build trust. I also think the best kind of relationship is when you can give your own opinion. Saying to them like, “That was no good, was it?” [laughs] “Why do I gotta do the same thing 40 times!?” You should be frank and express your doubts.

Yutaro: Speaking of that, it’s important to have trust with your fellow cast members too. I believe that even if you’re filming together, if you can’t build that trust, that subtle distance between you will be conveyed [in the scene]. You yourself have got to try and converse with them in a positive manner. Go out for a meal together before a shoot, talk together about your roles.

──You live your days laboriously, Yutaro, including as an actor. What does a time look like for you when things get particularly tough?

Yutaro: I’ve recently been doing a lot of shoots for multiple films at the same time. When that happens I find it very important to maintain retention so that I don’t forget my roles. In that sense, I also find that it’s important to look at how you spend your time outside of shoots when you’re working an acting job.

Lorenzo: Oh, yeah! Having spare time during shoots is a curse as an actor [laughs] Even if you fire yourself up―preparations are done, you’ve done your warmups, and you say, “Right, time to shoot!”―you have to start from zero again if you have time until the next shoot. That happens quite a lot.

──So you’re demanded to have self-discipline too. El Angel is set in 1970s Buenos Aires. The fashion and interior designs seen in the film really stood out.

Yutaro: For me personally the women’s clothes left an impression on me, particularly the one piece that Carlos’s mother wears. The clothes that Carlos wears in each scene too. They’re plain and simple but cool. I liked the leather jacket he wore when he went on a double date with his pal Ramón.

Lorenzo: Wow, you really took in at all the little details. The influence for Carlos and Ramón was drawn heavily from James Dean and Marlon Brando who were both popular actors at the time.

Yutaro: Oh, really?

Lorenzo: Like smoking cigarettes and wearing a leather jacket. We naturally had an amazing stylist who prepared our outfits for us. We were both also conscious of people like James Dean and Marlon Brando when we played Carlos and Ramón.

──What kind of clothes do you like, Lorenzo?

Lorenzo: I usually wear the kind of thing I have on now. I have a lot of rough-looking clothes. I really like fashion, my wardrobe is packed [laughs] The more clothes you have the harder it is to decide what to wear, so I really want to just wear the same t-shirt, pants and shoes all the time [laughs].

Yutaro: I looked at your Instagram, you wear t-shirts with Japanese games and anime characters on them, don’t you? You have a Super Mario one on today, and I saw a Pokémon one on your Instagram. I like how you venture to wear t-shirts of games that were popular a while back now.

Lorenzo: Really? Thanks, that makes me happy. The overalls you have on now are really cute, but I think that’s because it’s something that would suit you. If I wore something like that I’d probably look like a clown [laughs].

Yutaro: Do you have a criteria when picking out a character t-shirt?

Lorenzo: Well, I try not to wear t-shirts of franchises I don’t like, or games I haven’t played yet, or of bands I’ve never listened to before [laughs]. I’m wearing a Mario t-shirt today but there’s still much I don’t know about Japanese games or culture. I’m interested in many different cultures of many different countries, so I want to know more about Japan.

Yutaro: In that case, let’s go shopping together in Harajuku next time!

Writer: Takanori Kuroda

Photographer: MURA

Models: Yutaro, Lorenzo Ferro

Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

©2018 CAPITAL INTELECTUAL S.A / UNDERGROUND PRODUCCIONES / EL DESEO

The second run of the Toshio Suzuki & Studio Ghibli Exhibition is set to take place at Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki from July 13 to September 23. The event is focused on longtime Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki and centres on specific “words” he wishes to convey through this work.

The exhibition had its first run in Tokyo back in April this year. We covered that event in detail so be sure to give it a read.

The enormous 3-meter tall Yubaba & Zeniba centrepiece will return at the Nagasaki exhibition. Visitors can draw omikuji fortunes from the display which have Suzuki’s keywords written on them along with his explanation of them. You can take these home with you―a perfect addition for your Studio Ghibli collection!

An extremely special merchandise shop will also open at the site with exclusive items and products on sale and decor and decorations that will have you feeling you have stepped right into an enchanting world woven by Studio Ghibli.

Fan: ¥702 (Tax Included)

Get your hands on an official Spirited Away fan to cool yourself down at the event this summer. On one side is an illustration of Yubaba and on the other some powerful words from Suzuki.

Tote Bag: ¥1,620 (Tax Included)

Express your love for Studio Ghibli everyday with this tote bag featuring the same illustration of Yubaba―which is the main visual for the exhibition―on the side. It’s big enough to be worn on your shoulder making it a convenient day-to-day item.

Tea-Towel: ¥1,296 (Tax Included)

This beautiful tea towel is made in collaboration with dyed goods company Chikusen who have been around since the Edo period. It has a traditional indigo blue colour and is made from high quality material. A perfect gift and souvenir for any fan of Studio Ghibli.

We can’t forget the themed food menu either. You’ll find it on the first floor of Huis Ten Bosch at the Tea Salon.

Bath House Dessert: ¥850 (Tax Included)

A fitting dessert for any guest of the Spirited Away bath house, look forward to a bamboo charcoal-black chocolate-sprayed vanilla ice cream, colourful sugar candy and a cookie. It’s also served with iced corn tea.

Toast For Adventure Lovers: ¥650 (Tax Included)

Served with a glass of iced corn tea is a delicious egg-topped slice of toasted baked in the hotel bakery. Like you see in anime series, it makes you want to grab it, shove it between your teeth and run outside on an adventure.

Any fans of Studio Ghibli’s work aren’t going to want to miss out on this very special event. If you’re in Japan this summer be sure you get to go.

©️TS ©️Studio Ghibli

The sequel to the live-action film Tokyo Ghoul, entitled Tokyo Ghoul S, will be released on July 19, 2019. The first film dropped in 29 countries around the world in July 2017 and went on to become a huge hit. The sequel features a whole new staff team with returning cast members.

Tokyo Ghoul S was shown at the 20th Japan Expo event in Paris, France on July 7, the first pre-release screening since its premiere in Tokyo. Several cast members including Masataka Kubota (Ken Kaneki), Shota Matsuda (Shū Tsukiyama) and Maika Yamamoto (Touka Kirishima) as well as the film producer Tomohiro Nagae appeared at the event for a Q&A session with fans.

The French fans welcomed the staff on stage with a round of applause as Kubota and Matsuda greeted them with a “Bonjour!” They got straight into the Q&A, with Kubota, who plays the half-ghoul Kaneki, explaining to the crowd, “All of you eat meat and vegetables, but ghouls are only able to eat people.”

He continues, “People go mad when it’s them who are to be eaten. But I think that’s part of the appeal of this movie.”

The producer Nagae elaborated on the film’s deep theme: “One thing about this film is how universal its theme is. No matter where you go in the world, it’s mutual. Humans and ghouls experience much drama throughout the franchise, but this also applies to those close to you. When you’re watching the film, try thinking what would happen if you yourself became a ghoul.”

When asked about their favourite characters in the films, Kubota answered Juzo Suzuya, Matsuda answered Kaneki, and Yamamoto said her own character Touka.

Matusda also earned huge cheers from the crowd with his Tsukiyama-like answer, saying: “In this film Tsukiyama says for the first time since meeting Kaneki that he wants to eat him, so now I can’t think of anything else but him.”

When asked what fans should look forward to in this film, Kubota simply said “Shota Matsuda!” Matsuda followed this up saying, “I believe this is a romance film between Tsukiyama and Kaneki. Look forward to that aspect of it too.”

©Sui Ishida / Shueisha   ©2019 “Tokyo Ghoul S” Production Committee

Sega Toys Co., Ltd. will launch a new lineup of large, round character-themed balls called Pyokotama♪ Character series! The lineup includes four designs; Crayon Shin Chan, Doraemon, Hello Kitty, and Pikachu! These characters are famous in Japan and all over the world! The lineup will reach stores on Thursday 26th September 2019.

The cloth ball is approximately 13 cm in diameter. The faces of Crayon Shin Chan, Doraemon, Hello Kitty and Pikachu decorate the surface of the cushions…but what’s on the other side…? Make sure you take a look! Turn on the switch on the ball and and then throw it around as much as you like! When you do, it will play the character’s theme song or a famous song when you throw it!

Crayon Shin Chan

Make sure to check out the “backside” of the ball! As you throw the ball around, it will play the nostalgic melody of the Shin Chan theme song I’m Popular (Ora wa ninkimono).

Doraemon

His four-dimentional pocket is on the front of the ball and on the back is his small, red, circular tail! As you throw him around, he will play the anime opening song Yume o Kanaete Doraemon.

Hello Kitty

Her left ear is decorated with her signature large ribbon. When you throw this ball, a famous melody by Tchaikovsky will fill the air!

Pikachu

This ball is especially cute because of the ears! Throw this ball, and Pikachu will sing his own anime ending theme song”

These cute and round balls are perfect to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends!

Ⓒ Yoshito Usui/ Futabasha, Shinei, TV Asahi, ADK Ⓒ Fujiko-Pro, Shogakukan, TV Asahi, Shinei, ADK

Ⓒ1976,2019 SANRIO CO.,LTD. APPROVAL NO.S600788 ⒸNintendo・Creatures・GAME FREAK・TV Tokyo・ShoPro・JR Kikaku ⒸPokémon

The new movie Crayon Shin-chan: Honeymoon Hurricane ~The Lost Hiroshi~ will be released all over Japan from 19th April! To celebrate, there will be a collaboration between Crayon Shin-chan and Hands cafe. The collaboration cafe will be open from Wednesday 17/04 to Wednesday 15/05 2019 at Hands cafe in Shibuya, Etomo Chuo Rinkan, Umeda and Piole Akashi.

There are eight original items on the collaboration menu including mains, desserts and drinks.

Every customer who orders from the collaboration menu at the cafe will receive an original limited edition collaboration placemat as a novelty gift!

※ These will no longer be available when stocks are fully depleted.

Shin-chan beef curry ¥1,320 (price including tax)  ※ Contains honey

A beef curry topped with sweetcorn and star-shaped cheese. This also comes with a special caesar salad!

Where’s the treasure? Adult’s lunch plate ¥1,400 (price including tax)

This contains Shin-chan’s favourite foods such as burgers and fried shrimp! The contents may suggest that this dish is for a child, but an adult is sure to be completely satisfied with this special plate! It also comes with a white pudding which is very light!

Nohara family happy fruit parfait ¥1,280 ※ 1 of 3 character images will be selected at random for the centre of the parfait

This fresh parfait contains mango yoghurt which is topped generously with pineapple jelly and a range of fruit.

Crayon Shin-chan movie collaboration special cafe au lait ¥650 (price including tax)  ※ 1 of 4 designs will be chosen at random

This is a Hands Cafe hot cafe au lait with a special Crayon Shin-chan design floating on the top!

To see what else is on the menu, check out the Hands Cafe official website! This is a cafe collaboration that Shin-chan fans won’t be able to get enough of, so make sure you pop by during the holidays!

© Yoshito Usui ／Futabasha Publishers Ltd., Shin–Ei Animation Co., Ltd, TV Asahi, ADK 2019

The official title for the upcoming Tokyo Ghoul live-action sequel－previously promoted with the tentative title Tokyo Ghoul 2－has been revealed. Tokyo Ghoul [S] will hit Japanese theatres on July 19, 2019. In line with the announcement, a new trailer has dropped.

The staff line-up too has been kept under wraps until now. In charge of screenwriting is Japanese playwright Chūji Mikasano who worked on the Touken Ranbu musical as well as on both the anime and stage play adaptations of Tokyo Ghoul. It will be directed by Hiramaki Kazuhiko and Takuya Kawasaki with Masanori Morikawa of CHRISTIAN DADA returning again as costume designer.

The new trailer features both returning characters from the first film as well as new ones. The standout scene from the trailer is seeing Shuu Tsukiyama’s (Shota Matsuda) obsession with Kaneki (Masataka Kubota). Kaneki declares him a pervert when Tsukiyama explains to him he wants to eat Kaneki while Kaneki is eating something himself.

A stylish new visual was also released featuring Kaneki, Touka and Tsukiyama.

©Sui Ishida / Shueisha   ©2019 “Tokyo Ghoul [S]” Production Committee