During the summer holiday period between July and September, Aquamarine Fukushima is holding a range of events and supporting children to learn about marine life independently. Come join in the festival fun with goldfish scooping games, quoits, and much more. There will also be a fair from August 11 to 15.
Aquamarine Fukushima Rare Creatures Picture Book <Complete the pictures!>
Dates: July 13 ー September 1
Aquamarine Fukushima is displaying rare creatures and ecological systems. The children can write the name of the new creatures they discover in their own picture book. Once they have completed the picture book, it will be an original record of discoveries. As the children record the features of the animals and other organisms they discover, adults will also find this information beneficial when looking around the exhibitions.
How to take part: Pick up an application form at the entranceway on floor 1 of the aquarium main building (Honkan). The answers will all be distributed in one place. (Subject to change).
Summer Aquamarine Fukushima: Children’s Answer Room
Open: July 20 ー September 1
Here, all the answers to the children’s puzzles about Aquamarine life are presented in panels and explained in easy terms. Along with the picture book where the children can record interesting life forms, this is the perfect way to support independent exploration.
Goldfish scooping and Fun Fair
You can purchase goldfish that were bred at the aquarium, or catch them yourself at the goldfish scooping area. There is also a games corner where you and your children can enjoy a range of fun activities such as quoits.
The goldfish building, which just opened last year, will be bringing back its 60cm-large Goldfish Nebuta lantern. To raise spirits during Japan’s O-bon lantern festival, the aquarium will be open for much longer so that a lantern event can be held in the evening.
Iwaki Traditional Vegetable Marché
Open: August 17 ー 18 (11:00 ー 14:00)
Head to the Aquamarine Aguri located outside Aquamarine Fukushima to purchase everyday vegetables as well as Japanese vegetables that have been grown through the cooperation of Iwaki farmers and Iwaki city. The traditional Iwaki marché sells mainly traditional summer vegetables such as okuimo potatoes, yardlong beans, beefsteak plants, kojiroi cucumbers, and much more. From local vegetables to healthy goods, everything is produced at Aquamarine Fukushima.
Iwaki Fireworks Festival
Enjoy the sight of fireworks soaring through the sky before your very eyes from the Aquarium grounds. This large-scale fireworks event will run until 9 pm on August 3.
Running: August 11 ー 15 (8pm) .
※ Last entries: Up to 1hr before closing time.
Come visit Aquamarine Fukushima for a perfect fun-filled day with the family!
Information
Goldfish Display and Sales
Running: August 11 ー 12 (Monday, national holiday)
Times: 10:00 ー15:00、16:30 ー19:00
Goldfish Scooping/ Fair
Running: August 11 ー 15
Times: 16:30 ー19:00
The goldfish scooping event will end once all fish have been caught.
Water Yo-Yo Fishing, Quoits, Fishing Games, Barbecue Skewers: ¥300 per turn.
Aquamarine Fukushima
Address: Tatsumicho-50 Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima
Official Website: https://www.aquamarine.or.jp/
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Summer 2019 Japanese Fireworks Festivals With The Wow Factor
Hello everyone, this is Midori from MMN’s Editorial Department!
The first thing that pops into your head when you think of summer is fireworks. During the summer, Japan hosts so many large-scale fireworks events that it can be difficult to decide which one to visit. However, some festivals really stand out from the crowd. Today, I will share with you some fireworks festivals I would highly recommend for their extra wow-factor.
If you’re interested, check out the 2019 list for the top 10 fireworks festivals in Japan.
2019 Artistic Fireworks at Moerenuma Park, Sapporo
Last year, this event was cancelled due to an earthquake, so excitement levels are high this year.
This year, the fireworks dream team have put together a special non-stop program which includes the highest fireworks in the whole country. A fireworks photo and painting competition will be held after the fireworks event day.
▼2019 Artistic Fireworks at Moerenuma Park
Date: September 7, 2019
Official Website: https://www.moere.jp/
Relax 221m Above Ground: The RESTAURANT LUKE with SLY LOUNGE Fireworks Plan
Fireworks events held within the city can get very crowded, so how about watching them explode beautifully in the night sky from a restaurant? RESTAURANT LUKE with SLY LOUNGE is the perfect place to watch the Sumida River Fireworks festival and its 20,000 fireworks, or the Edogawa Fireworks Festival, where 14,000 fireworks are launched. Make sure to ask for the fireworks plan if you want this experience.
Being able to watch fireworks high in the sky is a wonderful lifetime opportunity.
▼RESTAURANT LUKE with SLY LOUNGE
Address: St.Luke’s Garden, 47th floor, 8-1 Akashicho, Chuo City, Tokyo
TEL: 03-3248-0211
Firework event plans:
July 27 Sumida River Fireworks Festival Special Plan
August 3 Edogawa Fireworks Festival Special Plan
Adults: ¥15,000, high school students: ¥6,000, middle school students: ¥4,000, elementary school students: ¥2,000 (Free for those under elementary school age)
Official Website: https://www.restaurant-luke.com/restaurant.html
Shin Yokohama Fireworks Festival 2019 Special Tickets
Kohoku-ku, Yokohama will be celebrating the 80th year of the Shin Yokohama Fireworks Festival. Tickets for seats to watch the 2019 fireworks event are now being sold. The fireworks will be launched in an area that is hundreds of metres wide. For the finale, you can enjoy yellow streams of light as they fall out of the sky. As this fireworks event is taking place at Shin Yokohama, you can get seats at the Nissan Stadium or the tennis court to enjoy a beautiful night.
Photo: Takeshi Kanetake
▼Shin Yokohama Fireworks Festival 2019
Date: July 7, 2019
Prices: Special entry area (unreserved seats): ¥2,000 (per person, 1m2 picnic sheet, 1 entry ticket).
Tennis court garden table seat: ¥20,000 (4 people, 4 tickets, 1 garden table), Nissan Stadium north side (for legal supporters/ event sponsors and others who contributed to the event: ¥54,000 (6 people, 6 tickets, table seating).
Official Website: http://shinyokohama-hanabi.com/
Enjoy Fishing With A Beautiful Fireworks Display In The Sky at Echizen, Fukui
Visit Echizen port to enjoy a beautiful fireworks display whilst on the hunt for fish and squid. This is a relatively cheap plan considering that you also get the chance to enjoy a beautiful view. This is a wonderful way to create special memories.
▼ Fishing and Fireworks in Echizen, 2019
Date: July 13, 2019
Price: Squid: ¥ 6,000 per person Fish: ¥7,000 per person (40 people max).
(Includes fishing equipement. Price is the same for both children and adults).
Official website: https://www.town-echizen.jp/SSL/experience/detail.php?id=90
A Cool Night at The Pool and Fireworks Every Day at Phoenix Seagaia Resort, Miyazaki
During the summer holidays, there will be a fireworks show every evening at Phoenix Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki prefecture. They have special seating, and also those who choose accommodation on the club floor can see the fireworks launched before their very eyes.
You can also enjoy the night pool or barbeque and simultaneously witness the fireworks. The best part is that there is a show everyday, so there is no need to worry about fitting it in with the rest of your plans.
▼Phoenix Seagaia Resort Summer Fireworks 2019
Event Period: Every day from July 20 ー August 31, 2019
Official Website: https://seagaia.co.jp/
This summer will be the first ever fireworks season of the Reiwa era, so how about making it extra special by attending a fireworks festival with that extra wow factor?
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Visit Japanese Family Homes and Learn to Cook Authentic Japanese Food With airKitchen
30.May.2019 | FOOD
airKitchen is an online service gaining popularity by inviting foreigners travelling to Japan to experience what it’s like to cook at home there.
The number of foreign visitors to Japan has been on the rise in recent years, and with the Tokyo Olympics right around the corner, that number is predicted to continue increasing. One shift happening amongst travellers to the country is their desire for more experience consumption over material consumption. This shift has been noted by the Japanese government and companies who are pushing to offer more experience-based content to foreigners.
One such company doing just this is the online platform service airKitchen whose popularity is only continuing to increase. By using the website, foreigners can choose from a long list of Japanese hosts who will teach them how to make many different Japanese dishes in their very own homes. Bookings and payment can both be done via the company’s official website. airKitchen launched in April 2018 and by April this year it already has over 4,000 users.
airKitchen’s popularity can be accredited to it satisfying overseas visitors’ desire to experience everyday Japanese life. They will cook authentic Japanese food in a common Japanese-style kitchen. In 2013, Washoku (“Japanese Food”) was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The appeal of Japanese food is on the rise and is sure to become even more popular.
airKitchen Introductory Video
Some of the most popular foods taught on the website include gyoza, bento and sushi. A total of three hours are allotted for each experience which includes both the cooking and eating time. The price for each service varies but the average is ¥5,000 per person. The biggest ratio of nationalities come from Europe and Australia and range from couples to families.
If you’re travelling to Japan, why not book with airKitchen yourself and get a taste of everyday Japanese home life?
Information
▼airKitchen Official Website
https://airkitchen.jp/en/host.php▼Cooking Classes in Tokyo
https://airkitchen.jp/list/tokyo.php▼Cooking Classes in Kyoto
https://airkitchen.jp/list/kyoto.php -
Beautiful National Park Projection Mapping to Illuminate Shiraito Falls This Summer
25.June.2019 | SPOT
For eight years now, Shiraito Highland Way, Karuizawa has been showing its gratitude to its summertime visitors with a special nighttime illumination display. This year, that time has come yet again.
The illumination event will take place at Shiraito Falls (白糸の滝, Shiraito no Taki), which is a special area of conservation located in Joshin’etsu-kogen National Park. Abiding by the rules set by the Ministry of the Environment and after a careful study of the wildlife, ecosystem and natural surroundings, preparations have been made in order to hold a successful show without any negative environmental effects. This will be the first ever projection mapping event to be held in a national park in Japan amongst the nature.
The 2019 event will be filled with a rich variety of beautiful animation to highlight the beauty of Karuizawa’s natural undertones and will also celebrate the new Reiwa era. The theme of the projection mapping will be “the birth of the earth and our prayers for the Reiwa period”.
This has been recognised as one of Japan’s Nightscape Heritage sites, so please come witness it for yourself.
Information
2019 Shiraito Falls Projection Mapping, Karuizawa
Running: Friday ー Sunday from July 26 ー August 25, 2019
※ Running every day from August 12 ー August 15
Show Times: 19:00 ー 21:00
※ For safety reasons, the illumination will be prepared from 18:30
※ The projection mapping show will run 9 times on each day in 15 minute intervals starting from 19:00)
※ In times of overcrowding, there will be an entry limit.
※ To confirm whether the event will be postponed due to bad weather, please check the website below.
※ On August 13 and 14 only, the first 200 visitors will be presented with Karuizawa Chocolate Factory sweets
Official Website: http://www.karuizawa-shw.com/
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3 Must-Try Refreshing Summer Desserts at Tokyo DisneySea
Hi, everyone, it’s Midori from MMN’s editorial team.
Many people travel to Tokyo DisneySea during the summer break, which is great for them as when the hot season rolls around so too does the park’s deliciously refreshing desserts. Today, I will introduce 3 must-try desserts at Tokyo DisneySea for the sweltering weather this year♡
Mango Ice Cream: ¥300
If you head to American Waterfront in the park and go to Toyville Trolley Park you’ll find a wagon out the front selling this mango ice cream. This is being held as part of the Duffy and Friends event “Duffy’s Sunny Fun.” The ice cream cup has an adorable illustration of Duffy wearing a swimsuit♡
This refreshing dessert is a mix of rich mango ice cream covered in mango sauce and cool shaved ice.
Sea Salt Ice Cream Wafer: ¥300
Another wagon can be found over in Mermaid Lagoon where they sea salt ice cream served inside a seashell wafer. The wafer is filled with slightly salty vanilla ice cream and a sweet and sour berry ice cream. You won’t find an ice cream served like this anywhere else♡ What’s more is that the ice cream inside doesn’t melt quickly so you can enjoy walking around and eating it without worrying about it dripping everywhere.
Deep Sea (Pineapple Smoothie): ¥400
Finally, near the Nemo & Friends SeaRider attraction in Port Discovery, you can get your hands on a pineapple smoothie called Deep Sea which is served in a cup with clownfish on the side♡
The vivid blue jelly inside is the perfect match for Port Discovery. The jelly sits underneath pineapple flavoured smoothie, and inside the blue jelly are pieces of chewy yellow jelly for added textures.
If you’re going to be waiting in line to get on one of the attractions why not keep yourself cool in the hot sun with one of these refreshing desserts? Have fun at Tokyo DisneySea!
Information
Tokyo Disney Resort Official Website: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/index.html
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Iconic Japanese Mascot Kumamon Takes Annual Festival Online to Thank Fans
14.February.2021 | SPOT
Kumamon is a Japanese mascot many are sure to have seen. It was created in 2010 as a way to promote Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu, Japan.
Each year, Kumamon brings fans together at an event called “Kumamon Fan Gratitude Festival in TOKYO.” This year, for the safety of fans, it will be held digitally—from Tokyo rather than in Tokyo—with an online stream via Kumamon’s official YouTube channel Kumamon TV on February 12 at 20:00 (JST). Kumamon is currently in the last stages of preparing what is sure to be an equally fun event for fans.
You can follow Kumamon on social media at the links below. Be sure to tune in for the stream this Friday.
Information
Kumamon Fan Gratitude Festival 2021 from TOKYO
Japanese Event Title: くまモンファン感謝祭2021 from TOKYO 特別映像だモン!
When: February 12, 2021 @ 20:00 (JST)
Kumamon Official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/KumamonTV
Kumamon in Tokyo Blog: http://www.kumamon-tokyo.com/
Kumamon Tokyo Staff Official Twitter: @KumamonStaff
Kumamon Official Website: https://kumamon-official.jp/ -
Rapeseed Flower Festival Offers a View of 100,000 Plants With Mount Fuji in the Background
12.December.2020 | SPOT
The Rapeseed Flower Festival is set to bloom on Soleil Hill, a park in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, from December 18 when around 100,000 bright yellow rapeseed flowers will shine across the flower beds.
Turnip Rape (Photo taken December 1, 2020)
Soleil Hill is a 5,000㎡ rolling expanse in the Miura Peninsula in Yokosuka, Kanagawa. The turnip rape is an early springtime flower that is blooming around a month earlier this December due to there not having been many typhoon disasters in the area this year, which will welcome the flower’s peak blossom.
Photo taken last year with 100,000 turnip rapes, Sagami Bay, and Mount Fuji in the shot
The flowers bloom for a long period from December to March, around 100 days, and the incredible view can be enjoyed with Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji in the background.
Rapeseed Flower Festival
Photo taken last year at the of December with the rapeseeds in full bloom
The Rapeseed Flower Festival will run from December 18, 2020 to March 31, 2020 in line with the turnip rape’s peak blossom. Visitors can enjoy a selection of food inspired by the flower beds and view as well as take part in a variety of programs.
Mount Fuji & Rapeseed Curry | ¥1,000 (Before Tax)
The Mount Fuji & Rapeseed Curry is inspired by the view of Mount Fuji and the flower beds during a sunset as represented by the red curry.
Rapeseed Herbarium Workshop | ¥1,600 (Tax Included)
Visitors can try making their own rapeseed herbarium in a bottle at the crafts workshop too.
Information
Rapeseed Flower Festival
Running: December 18, 2020 – March 31, 2021
Location: Yokosuka Soleil Hill
Address: 4 Chome Nagai, Yokosuka, Kanagawa
Opening Hours: [March-November] 9:00-18:00 / [December-February] 9:30-17:00
Official Website: https://www.seibu-la.co.jp/soleil/
*Event is subject to postponement or cancellation depending on the pandemic -
Online Shonen Jump Festival ‘Jump Festa 2021’ Opens App Download and Announces Schedule
10.December.2020 | ANIME&GAME
Shueisha announced last month that JUMP magazine’s annual festival JUMP Festa is heading online for ‘Jump Festa 2021 ONLINE’ which will run from December 19, 2020 to December 20, 2020. The application needed to access the festival was finally made available on Wednesday (December 9), as was the timetable.
Concept Movie
Jump Festa 2021 ONLINE App
The festival can be attended either by download the Jump Festa 2021 ONLINE app (ジャンプフェスタ2021 ONLINE) or by going on the event’s official website. However, certain content is restricted on the website. The festival takes place on Jump Festa Island, a virtual space where visitors can access content related to Jump-related media from the free-to-access library to the theatre, an online shop, and more. There’s also a zoo area, photo spots, and mini games. If visitors use the ‘attend with a friend’ function or chat function, they can also take a special commemorative photo as well as watch the stage performances.
22 Original Art Pieces
Jump Festa is a celebration of five manga magazine publications by Shueisha: Weekly Shonen Jump, Shonen Jump+, V Jump, Jump SQ., and Saikyo Jump. Each of the five publications have had 22 of their own original characters drawn with original artwork for this online event which people can use as their avatar to roam around Jump Festa Island.
2-Day Stage Events
42 stage performances will take place on December 19 and 20. Content will include live streams from special guests at Makuhari Messe, videos, and more. There are three virtual stages to watch: the Jump Super Stage, Jump Studio, and Jump Amusement Tower.
Jump Super Stage
The Jump Super Stage is centred on anime and media adaptations of Jump manga. Performances will be streamed like from Makuhari Messe.
December 19, 2020
10:00-10:30 / Dr.STONE
11:30-12:00 / World Trigger
13:00-13:30 / Jujutsu Kaisen
14:30-15:00 / Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
16:20-16:50 / My Hero AcademiaDecember 20, 2020
10:00-10:30 / World’s End Harem
11:30-12:00 / Black Clover
13:00-13:30 / The New Prince of Tennis
14:30-15:00 / Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai
16:10-16:50 / One PieceJump Amusement Tower
This stage is centred on V Jump and Saikyo Jump. It will give the latest information on Jump games live from Makuhari Messe.
December 19, 2020
9:30~ / Jump Festa 2021 ONLINE Introduction Stage – Presented by V Jump Play
11:00~ / One Piece Bounty Rush Jump Festa 2021 Battle Stage ONE PIECE
12:20~ / Naruto & Boruto Game New Information
14:00~ / Yu-Gi-Oh! New Information JF 2021 Stage
15:50~ / JUMP FORCE Special StageDecember 20, 2020
9:30~ / Jump Festa 2021 ONLINE Introduction Stage – Presented by V Jump Play
11:00~ / Dragon Ball App Stage
12:30~ / Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai Cross Blade Special Stage
14:00~ / Yu-Gi-Oh! New Information JF 2021 Stage
15:00~ / Super Dragon Ball Heroes Ultimate StageJump Stage
This stage is centred on Weekly Shonen Jump, Shonen Jump+, and ,Jump SQ. It will feature video footage.
December 19, 2020
9:10~ / Digital DJ Special Program
9:45~ / Kemono Jihen
10:30~ / Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku
11:05~ / Haikyu!!
12:00~ / Super HxEros
12:35~ / Bōkyaku Battery
13:30~ / Blue Exorcist
14:05~ / Chainsaw Man
14:40~ / “Platinum End” Special
15:05~ / Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
15:50 / GintamaDecember 20, 2020
9:10~ / Weekly Shonen Jump New Hero Stage
9:45~ / Hetalia World☆Stars
10:30~ / Rurouni Kenshin: The Hokkaido Arc
11:10~ / Moriarty the Patriot
12:00~ / 2.5D no Yuuwaku
12:35~ / Blood Blockade Battlefront Back 2 back
13:10~ / SPY x FAMILY
13:45~ / Showa Otome Otogibanashi
14:30~ / 2nd Nationwide One Piece Knowledge King Battle Final Stage
15:05~ / BLEACH/BURN THE WITCH
15:50~ / The Promised NeverlandJF Coins From 24 Jump Series
On Jump Festa Island, visitors can collect JF Coins from 24 different Jump series from across the five magazines which they can spend on mini games to earn limited-edition items, enjoy the Capsule Character Tower, and more. Some spots also give Rare Coins.
There and three original mini games to play. Gain a high score and earn one of twelve stamps.
Jump Photo Spots From 24 Series
Take a photo at one of the many photo spots that recreate famous scenes from 24 different Jump series. Have your character avatar look like they’re part of the scene.
TikTok x Jump Festa Special Collaboration
This year, Jump Festa is collaborating with TikTok with its own official account as well as original video effects. There will also be a special TikTok LIVE stream in collaboration with the festival before the start date on December 18 at 19:00 (JST).
© SHUEISHA Inc. All rights reserved.
Information
JUMP Festa 2021 ONLINE
Running: December 19, 2020 – December 20, 2020Time: 9:00-17:00
JUMP Festa Official Website: https://www.jumpfesta.com/JUMP Festa 2021 ONLINE App
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/id1537056179
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.co.shueisha.jf2021 -
Tokyo’s Art Aquarium Museum in Nihonbashi Announces Christmas Event
29.November.2020 | SPOT
Having only held annual summertime events up to now, Art Aquarium Museum in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, is celebrating Christmas for the first time this year with a series of holiday season festivities.
The Aquarium’s first Christmas tree
Art Aquarium Museum will display its very first Christmas tree for the event indoors near the entrance. The tree artwork was created by Hidemoto Kimura using 550 colourful crystals that have been made to look like goldfish. Made from venetian glass, he had them shipped himself from Italy. They are strung in 10 different colours which glow and glisten to create a romantic atmosphere.
Artwork Name: Natale di Pesce D’oro
Running: December 1, 2020 – December 27, 2020
Location: Art Aquarium Museum entrancePair tickets for Christmas with alcohol
Pair Ticket (2 People) + 2 Drinks | ¥4,600 (Tax Included)Those arriving in twos can buy Pair Tickets which come with two alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages so you can plunge into the magical underwater world of the aquarium while enjoying a drink.
Buy Tickets: https://ticket.artaquarium.jp/en/
Running: November 24, 2020 – December 27, 2020
Validity Period: December 1, 2020 – December 27, 2020
Drinks Menu:[Alcohol] COEDO Beer / Marihana / Louis Raison Rouge Délice
[Non-Alcoholic] Sanpellegrino Pompelmo / Grapefruit
Christmas menu served up in the lounge and cafe
2-Person Hors d’oeuvre With 2 Drinks | Online Booking ¥4,200, Same-Day ¥5,000 (Tax Included) | Serving: December 18, 2020 – December 25, 2020
The aquarium’s lounge restaurant is serving an hors d’oeuvre for pairs of Japanese and western food together with two drinks.
2-Person Christmas Sweets Plate With 2 Drinks | Online Booking ¥3,300, Same-Day ¥3,850 (Tax Included) | Serving: December 1, 2020 – December 27, 2020
The cafe is serving up plate of assorted desserts, perfect for a post-aquarium date.
Christmas Special Cocktail | ¥2,200 (Tax Included) | Serving: December 1, 2020 – December 27, 2020
Both the restaurant and cafe are also serving a seasonal cocktail of chocolate, strawberries, cranberries, and champagne jelly for a sweet and refreshing mix.
Information
Art Aquarium Museum Christmas Event
Address: 1-3 Nihonbashihoncho, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00 (Until 20:00 in December)
No Fixed Holidays
General Admission: Adults (13 and over) ¥2,300 (Tax Included) / After Dark Ticket: Adults (13 and over) ¥2,000 (Tax Included)*Free for 12 and under
Official Website: https://artaquarium.jp/en/ -
JUMP Magazine Announces Online Festival For 2021
25.November.2020 | ANIME&GAME
Shueisha has announced that JUMP magazine’s annual festival JUMP Festa is heading online for ‘JUMP Festa 2021 ONLINE’ which will run from December 19, 2020 to December 20, 2020.
JUMP Festa is a celebration of five manga publications by Shueisha: Weekly Shonen Jump, Shonen Jump+, V Jump, Jump SQ., and Saikyo Jump. This year marks its 22nd run, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is unable to be held in real life and so will be held online for the first time. To enter, you can download the JUMP Festa app or head on over to the event’s official website.
JUMP Festa Island – A Virtual Venue
JUMP Festa Island is where JUMP Festa 2021 ONLINE will take place, a virtual space where visitors can access content related to JUMP-related media from the free-to-access library to the theatre, an online shop, and more. There’s also a zoo area, photo spots, and mini games.
Original characters created for JUMP Festa Island
Each of the five magazine publications have had their own original characters drawn for this online event. More details will be revealed about these characters in the coming weeks, but they can run around, pose, and more.
© SHUEISHA Inc. All rights reserved.
Information
JUMP Festa 2021 ONLINE
Running: December 19, 2020 – December 20, 2020Time: 9:00-17:00
JUMP Festa Official Website: https://www.jumpfesta.com/ -
US Rapper Dumbfoundead Announces Free Online Music Event ‘DOUBLE HAPPINESS Global Holiday Festival’
25.November.2020 | MUSIC
US rapper Dumbfoundead will spearhead the DOUBLE HAPPINESS Global Holiday Festival, a global online music festival set to stream for free via Eastern Standard Time on December 2 and 3 depending on where you live. The event will welcome performances from top Asian artists.
Over 30 artists will perform across 8 hours. Headliners include music duo NxWorries, eight-member South Korean idol group ATEEZ, K-pop artist CHUNGHA, and others. Atarashii Gakko no Leaders a.k.a. ATARASHII GAKKO! from Japan will also perform.
▼Line-Up
Ardhito Pramono、Atarashii Gakko no Leaders a.k.a. ATARASHII GAKKO!、ATEEZ、Audrey Nuna、AUGUST 08、Balming Tiger、BVNDIT、CHAI、Chi Pu、CHUNG HA、Dumbfoundead、Dvwn、Fern.、Guapdad 4000 、Jason Dhakal、Joey Alexander、Josephine Alexandra、Kiana V、Leila Alcasid、 MADDOX 、Massiah、、Milli、Numcha 、NxWorries 、Pamungkas、RIRI、Seori、Stephanie Poetri・The Resonanz Children’s Choir Alumni、warrenisyellow、Wolftyla 、Year of the Ox、Ylona Garcia 、Yuna
Information
DOUBLE HAPPINESS Global Holiday Festival
Dates/Times: US Time – December 2, 2020 at 19:00 / Japan Time – December 3, 2020 at 09:00
Tune into Double Happiness on: https://easternstandardti.meFollow Eastern Standard Time:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ESTpresents
Instagram: https://instagram.com/ESTpresents -
Tokyo’s Fate/Grand Order 2021 Event to Take Place at Ikebukuro Sunshine 60
21.November.2020 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
To promote the upcoming anime film adaptation of mobile RPG Fate/Grand Order‘s popular episode “6th Singularity: Camelot,” an event will take place at SKY CIRCUS Sunshine 60 Observation Deck and Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro, Tokyo from December 4, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
New artwork displayed for the event
A collection of new artwork has been drawn specially for the event. Fans will find life-sized cut-outs of Bedivere, Mashu Kyrielite, Lion King, Gawain, and Lancelot at the observation deck and Ozymandias, Nitocris, and Arash at the aquarium. There will also be voiced panels at the observation deck with newly-recorded lines by Mamoru Miyano (Bedivere) and Takehito Koyasu (Ozymandias). Different voice recordings will be rolled out throughout the duration of the event. This info can be found by following the venue on Twitter @skycircus60.
Anime photos and signed exhibits
The observation deck will also feature photos taken from scenes in the anime series as well as exhibits signed by the character voice actors.
Original Merchandise
Stickers
Pins
Both the observation deck and aquarium will sell their own original merchandise, so fans will want to visit both venues.
Keyword Rally
Keyword Rally answer sheet
Both venues will host a keyword rally where fans will have to fill out their answers of the correct words on the sheets in Japanese. Clearing each one will get them an original card with five different designs from the observation deck and three from the aquarium.
Answer sheets can be bought for ¥600 each from the 60th floor ticket counter at the observation deck and next to the annual passport counter at the aquarium.
Tully’s Coffee Collaboration
Tully’s Coffee coasters
Both venues have their own branches of Tully’s Coffee, a cafe chain. For every ¥800 spent on a transaction you will receive one of eight possible coasters chosen randomly.展
Movie ticket campaign
If you go to see the upcoming Fate/Grand Order movie in Japan and show your movie ticket at either the observation deck or aquarium you can get 20% off your entry to the event.劇
More original merchandise
Starting on December 4, the observation deck will begin selling merchandise tickets in addition to regular entry tickets which include both admission and a piece of merchandise.
©TYPE-MOON / FGO6 ANIME PROJECT
Information
Fate/Grand Order x SKY CIRCUS Sunshine 60 Observation Deck x Sunshine Aquarium
Venues: SKY CIRCUS Sunshine 60 Observation Deck / Sunshine Aquarium
Address: Sunshine City, 3-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Dates
Observation Deck: December 4, 2020 – January 31, 2021
Aquarium: December 4, 2020 – January 11, 2021
SKY CIRCUSSunshine 60 Observation Deck Official Website: https://sunshinecity.jp/observatory/
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Hatsune Miku and Rascal the Raccoon to Collaborate at Magical Mirai 2020 in Osaka
13.November.2020 | MUSIC
Nippon Animation and Crypton Future Media are set to collaborated for the 4th time by bringing together the popular character Rascal from the Japanese animated series Rascal the Raccoon and VOCALOID. The two companies will release pre-sales of collaborative merch at Magical Mirai 2020 in Osaka from November 27 to 29.
Rascal celebrate hits 40th anniversary back in 2017, the same year his collaboration with VOCALOID began. “Japanese Festival” is the theme for the merchandise line-up which sees the adorable raccoon come together with familiar faces from the VOCALOID roster including Miku, Rin, Len, Luka, KAITO, and MEIKO, all of whom are donning their appropriate festive garbs. There’s also a “Firework Festival” collection of merchandise too which was designed in collaboration with Japanese illustrator Omutatsu.
The merchandise will also be released at the official Nippon Animation shop ANi★CUTE in Ikebukuro, Tokyo on December 18, 2020.
Artwork sample
Merchandise sample
Information
Magical Mirai 2020 in OSAKA
Running: November 27, 2020 – November 29, 2020
Venue: INTEX Osaka Buildings 3 and 4
Address: 1 Chome-5-102 Nankokita, Suminoe Ward, Osaka
Official Website: https://magicalmirai.com/2020/
COCOLLABO Official Website: https://www.cocollabo.net/sp/Magicalmirai2020/Nippon Animation Official Shop ANi★CUTE
Release Date: December 18, 2020
Location: Sunshine City Alpa 2F
Address: 3-1-2 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
TEL: 03-6914-2668 -
Jellyfish and the Moon and Stars Come Together at Tokyo’s Sumida Aquarium
09.November.2020 | SPOT
Sumida Aquarium in Tokyo has announced a special winter event called “Moon & Jellyfish” which will run from November 20, 2020 to February 14, 2020, creating a spectacle that weaves a story of moon jellies in the twinkling night sky.
Moon & Jellyfish will be the first event to take place inside Big Petri Dish, a giant seven-metre tank that opened at Sumida Aquarium in July of this year and houses around 500 jellyfish. The tank’s flat appearance allows visitors to look out across the water to see what looks like a sea of floating Moons.
For the event, special visual imagery will be shone onto the ceiling, walls, and floor to weave together a story. On the ceiling, visuals will show a moon jelly growing, like a waxing moon, into a full adult jellyfish. On the walls and floor, ephyra, which are one of the early stages of a jellyfish’s lifecycle, will be displayed. They are star-shaped and so will look like stars of the night sky next to the moon jellies.
On Fridays and weekends this December, Sumida Aquarium is also hosting a projection mapping event called Penguin Candy where the penguin pool will be lit with Christmas illuminations to the sound of festive music.
Visitors to the Penguin Cafe will also find a limited-edition winter hot cocoa inspired by the Moon & Jellyfish event, with the tapioca pearls as the jellyfish, a moon marshmallow, and blue mint whipped cream.
Information
Moon & Jellyfish
Running: November 20, 2020 – February 14, 2021
Location: Sumida Aquarium Floor 6F Big Petri Dish
Penguin Candy
Running: Fridays and Weekends in December 2020
Times: ①18:30 / ②19:30 (approx 8 mins each)
Location: Sumida Aquarium Penguin Pool
Official Website: https://www.sumida-aquarium.com/index.html
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Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival 2020 Begins This November
19.October.2020 | SPOT
The Fujikawaguchiko Tourism Association will host this year’s Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, which will be the 22nd run, to help support the tourism industry in the northern region of Fuji which has seen a great impact as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With much less people travelling to Japan during the pandemic, and the virus having continued for a long time, the Fujikawaguchiko Tourism Association is instead focusing on travellers within the country by hosting various events that can be enjoyed at Fujikawaguchiko.
All the necessary precautions will be taken at this year’s festival, including taking people’s temperature upon arrival, the mandatory wearing of face masks, alcohol gel being available at the site, and more. This will protects not only the locals but sightseers too, and so cooperation is being asked of everyone visiting.
At this year’s festival, visitors can look forward to the popular Momiji Tunnel of maple trees which will be lit up at sunset until 10:00pm. The beautiful autumn colours can be enjoyed with Mount Fuji in the background. There will also be food, souvenirs, and a variety of activities to be enjoyed.
The Momiji Tunnel is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Yamanashi during autumn and is nothing less than Instagram-worthy.
Information
22nd Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival
Location: Around Lake Kawaguchi
Running: November 7, 2020 – November 29, 2020Opening Hours: 9:00-19:00 (Light up is from sunset to 22:00)
Access: 25 mins from Kawaguchiko Station by bus (nearest bus stop: Itchiku Kubota Art Museum Stop)
Entry: Free*Please observe social distancing and government guidelines in relation to COVID-19.
*Fujikawaguchiko is a World Heritage Site and recognised as a place of natural beauty. Please take your trash home with you.
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Snow Fireworks to Light Up the Winter Skies of Miyazaki at Phoenix Seagaia Resort
14.October.2020 | SPOT
Phoenix Seagaia Resort, a resort located in Miyazaki Prefecture whose brand slogan claims them as the most beautiful in all of Japan, has announced a heart-warming new experience for the winter season.
Seagaia’s Snow Fireworks
Miyazaki doesn’t see a lot of snowfall, but this winter, the prefecture is welcoming an all-new fireworks festival which will launch fireworks into the sky that falls like pure white snow. Phoenix Seagaia Resort is also offering a guest plan which combines a stay at the resort with front row seats to the fireworks.
Running: December 4, 2020 – February 27, 2021 (Fridays and Saturdays only + January 10, 2021)
Time: 20:00 (Approx 3 minutes)
Bookings: https://bit.ly/3lurZWKStarlight Winter Illuminations
THE LIVING GARDEN is the garden area of Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort exclusive to guests. This winter, the garden will be lit up with 30,000 LED lights and lanterns to create a magical, starry sky-like atmosphere by both of the garden’s pools.
Running: November 1, 2020 – February 28, 2021
Location: THE LIVING GARDEN, Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort
Illumination Times: Sunset to 23:00Price: Free (Exclusive to Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort guests)
A Cosy Menu For a Warm Stay
Gazebos by the waterside at THE LIVING GARDEN
S’mores
Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort will also serve s’mores, hot cocktails, and other treats at THE LIVING GARDEN with gazebos and fire pits. Enjoy fluffy marshmallow s’mores served with nuts and salted chocolate.
Running: November 6, 2020 – February 28, 2021 (Excluding Wednesdays & Thursdays)
Times: 19:30-23:00 (Last Orders 22:30)
Location: KUROBAR, THE LIVING GARDEN, Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort
Information
Phoenix Seagaia Resort
Address: Hamayama Yamasakicho, Miyazaki, 880-8545, Japan
Winter Resort Stay (Japanese): https://seagaia.co.jp/special/stay/553
Official Website (English): https://seagaia.co.jp/index_en.html -
Review | ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM: A Magical Place Swimming With Life
ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM officially opened permanently in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, on August 28, 2020. Before that, it was simply an exhibition that was held around Tokyo which brought together over 10 million visitors throughout its run, exhibiting goldfish in a variety of breathtaking ways.
We visited ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM together with Japanese model Yuna Yabe to take a deeper dive into what lies within those doors.
ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM can be found in Nihonbashi, an area of which served as one of many places where ART AQUARIUM previously held its exhibitions. Nihonbashi is steeped in tradition and is actually the place where Japan’s goldfish culture spawned from during the Edo Period.
ART AQUARIUM was conceived and is managed by Hidetomo Kimura, an author and general producer. It’s a collaboration between art, design, and entertainment, all fused into an aquarium to create a completely unique experience. The museum has taken what was once a pop-up exhibition and expanded it many-fold, housing close around 30,000 goldfish.
The aquarium is divided into different areas each with its own unique theme that plunges visitors into a multitude of fantastical worlds. One of the must-sees when visiting ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM is the masterful Oiran works—giant goldfish bowls as pictured above—which are inspired by the red light district of the Edo Period.Perhaps the most striking and gorgeous part of the Edo Period was Hanamachi, the districts where geisha worked. The high-ranking courtesans, known as Oiran, engaged in what was known as the Oiran Dochu, or procession of the courtesans, and this too has been captured at the museum in the designs of the beautiful fish tanks in this area.
Another unmissable part when visiting the aquarium are the Goldfish Shrines, towering fish tanks lined up like a column of water trees which make for an incredible viewing experience.
The lighting and music is ever-changing, and so transports visitors into a completely different realm every time. It can be one way one moment, and in the next instant it changes entirely.
From the second floor you can overlook the fish shrines with dynamic 3D visuals in the background. These visuals change depending on the season, so you’ll be in for a treat however many times you visit.
There are countless works of goldfish art scattered throughout the aquarium—too many to count, so your eyes will never grow tired.
Suigian Lounge – Old Pine Tree Area
ART AQUARMIUM MUSEUM even has its own dining lounge where guests can enjoy a meal while gazing at a painting of old pine trees, a cultural property of the Edo Period said to have been painted by those of the Kano school of Japanese painting. Traditional performances are also carried out on the stage for diners.
These drinks are ¥1,200 each (before tax)
Every five days, a new line-up of cocktails is served at Suigian Lounge. Japan used to be divided into 24 sekki rather than the now-used four seasons of springs, summer, autumn, and winter. These were further divided into 72 Kō, which are five days apart each. That’s where the lounge gets its idea for changing its cocktails every five days. So you’re sure to find an interesting flavour on every visit.
Kagyo Ryoran – Joy Area
Kagyo Ryoran is a separate cafe lounge at the aquarium where they serve authentic Japanese sweets in collaboration with famous confectionery shops.
From Left Clockwise: Goldfish Sarasa ¥750 / Palet D’or Cacao Soda ¥900 / Echire Butter & Cream Castella ¥800 / lohasbeans coffee Matcha Tiramisu ¥850 / Goldfish Jelly ¥750 (All Before Tax)
The cafe serves up range of tasty Japanese desserts, from traditional ones to others inspired by goldfish and some made in collaboration with other shops.
Large Plush Toys: ¥3,200 Each (Before Tax)
The aquarium event sells its own souvenirs, such as goldfish plushies in various sizes, original confections, collaborative products, and more.
“Everything was magical—the goldfish, the sounds, the lights, the atmosphere!” explains Yuna. “They have a lot of different varieties of goldfish, and the fish tanks come in all shapes and sizes, which makes for plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. And since it’s inspired by Edo culture, it has a Japanese vibe to it too. The fish are always swimming around, so no two moments are ever the same, meaning you’re offered something fresh every time you visit.”
If you’re visiting Tokyo, be sure to pay a visit to ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM.
Information
ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM
Address: 1-3 Nihonbashihoncho, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 (subject to change)
No Fixed Holidays
General Admission: Adults (13 and over) ¥2,300 (Tax Included) / After Dark Ticket: Adults (13 and over) ¥2,000 (Tax Included)*Free for 12 and under
Official Website: https://artaquarium.jp/en/*ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM is currently operating with social distancing and COVID-19 preventative measures. Special permission was granted to take these photos safely without a mask.